ALLEN & HEATH AB168 - AudioRack Manual

Introduction

The AB168 is a portable, rugged stage box for all Allen & Heath digital mixing systems compatible with the dSnake protocol. It provides 16 remote controlled mic/line preamps and 8 XLR line outputs.

It can be operated horizontally with the connectors facing upward or sideways, or vertically to save space on stage. It can also be mounted in a 19" equipment rack or case using the optional AB1608-RK19 kit.

Using a single network cable, the AB168 can be connected directly to the mixer or cascaded from an AR2412 or AB168. An expansion port allows connection to another AB168 or an AR84 when used as the first unit, or to a ME personal monitoring system when used as the first or second unit.

A maximum of two dSnake remote units can be connected to each mixer's dSnake port.

The AB168 is used to increase the number of I/O sockets in a system and position both sockets and AD/DA conversion close to the source/stage. It will not increase the number of processing channels available in the system and must be connected to a mixer where the audio can be processed and routed.

Compatibility and Cable

The AB168 uses the 48kHz dSnake protocol, which is a layer 2, fast ethernet protocol designed for pointto-point connections. This means it can be connected to the dedicated dSnake ports included on the GLD and Qu systems, or used with the intelligent SLink port that can switch to a dSnake mode.

Refer to the latest documentation for your mixer available from www.allen-heath.com for more information on connecting, patching, and controlling the AB168 with your system.

Cat5e (or higher) STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) cable should be used, with a maximum cable length of 100m (330ft) between each unit. Use of passive couplers to join cables will reduce this distance.

High-quality touring grade cables are available through your A&H dealer. Please see www.allenheath.com/ahproducts/cat5/ for more details.

Connection, Automatic firmware matching and LED behaviour

When powered, the 'Power' LED on the front of the AB168 will illuminate.

On connection to a mixer, the AB168 will automatically check and match its firmware to the mixer model and mixer firmware version. If an update to firmware is required, it will happen automatically. This may take up to 2 minutes to complete and if the AB168 is cascaded (connected through another unit), checking and updating may take slightly longer. During an update, the port 'Lnk/Err' LED will flash red and once the update is complete, the AB168 will automatically reboot.

When running the correct firmware and connected to a mixer, the 'Lnk/Err' LED next to the dSnake port will flash yellow to show link activity and the 'Ready' LED on the front panel will illuminate.

AB168 Panel Layout

1.  Input sockets
   16 balanced XLR mic/line inputs with +48V Phantom Power indicator. The preamps are built into the AB168 and their Gain, Pad and 48V phantom power are controlled remotely from the mixer via the dSNAKE link. The Phantom Power indicator detects voltage at the socket whether supplied by the AB168 or received from an external source. Refer to mixer documentation for information on patching these sockets to input channels or other destinations in the system.
2. ‚ Output sockets
   8 balanced XLR outputs operating at nominal +4dBu line level. Refer to mixer documentation for information on patching output signals to these sockets.
3. Socket labelling
   Space is provided next to the sockets for custom labelling.
4. „ Vents
   Ensure good ventilation at the sides and back of the rack. Avoid obstruction of vents while operating. Avoid dirt or liquid ingress.
5. … Mains power input
   IEC connector and fuse for the built-in universal voltage power supply unit. This accepts worldwide received the correct mains lead for your territory. Secure the cable in place using the plastic P-clip. Use a T20 Torx screwdriver to refit the screw.
6. dSNAKE port
   EtherCon/RJ45 socket to connect directly to the mixer or through an AR2 412 or another AB168. This carries inputs, outputs and ME/monitor sends to and from the AB168 as well as preamp control and system status messages.
7. †EXPANDER port
   EtherCon/RJ45 socket to connect a second AB168, an AR84 or a ME/monitor system.

EtherCon locking connectors are recommended to prevent damage to cables or ports and avoid accidental disconnection.