ALLEN & HEATH PL-9 User manual

PL-9 User Guide AP5271 issue 1 1
Introduction The PL-9 is a 7 way PL-Anet hub which extends the
capabilities of the Allen & Heath PL Series of wall plates and remote
controllers. It can address up to 15 PL devices per branch up to a system
maximum of 24 depending on the type of devices and distances involved.
It has a built-in mains power supply to boost the PL-Anet 20V fed down
each cable to power the devices. This means that larger systems can be
created and connected over longer distances. It can also simplify and
reduce the wiring required by allowing a ‘star point’ connection scheme.
In smaller systems the PL-9 can allow individual devices to be connected
independently to the iDR audio processor using single cables rather than
being chained together.
A This example shows several PL devices daisy chained in the normal
way through the installation. A maximum of 15 devices may be connected
on the single PL-Anet feed dependent on their type and distances involved.
B This example shows the addition of the PL-9 hub which simplifies the
cable routing by providing direct feeds to three chains. It also provides
more power and addressing allowing more than 15 devices to be
connected. Further PL devices may be added using the other branches.
C This example shows PL fader controllers each with their own
connection. Each may be plugged and unplugged without affecting the
other. Up to 7 devices could be independently connected in this way.
Panel Layouts
1 Removable rack ears for 19” rack or desk top operation.
2 Individual branch status indicators light to indicate that 20V power is
available over PL-Anet. Each branch is protected against installation faults
with a resettable fuse. The indicator turns off if the fuse has tripped.
Remove the fault and power down for 1 minute to reset the fuse.
3 Power and Communication status indicators. POWER lights when the
unit is turned on. CHAIN IN lights when the iDR or previous PL device is
ready to communicate. CHAIN OUT lights when the PL-9 is ready to
communicate with its connected PL devices.
4 Mains power input with ON/OFF switch, IEC connector and fuse. Heed
the warnings printed in this guide and on the rear panel.
5 PL-Anet input RJ45 socket. Connects to the end of the PL-Anet chain
from the iDR unit.
6 7x PL-Anet output branch RJ45 sockets A to G.
PL-9 Hub for PL-Anet AP5271
User Guide
21 3
5
4 6
PL-9
iDR
PL-9
iDR
iDR
iDR
A
B
C
PL-Anet is the proprietary Allen & Heath
system for daisy chaining remote
controllers. It is an RS485 serial connection
that uses CAT5 STP cable to communicate
between devices over long distances. PL-
Anet only works with Allen & Heath PL
devices. The port provides +20V DC to
power the connected devices.

2 PL-9 User Guide AP5271 issue 1
Planning the system Decide the type and quantity of PL devices
required and the wiring distances involved. Use the PL Calculator
spreadsheet available from the Allen & Heath web site (www.allen-
heath.com) to check that your configuration is possible. Plan the use of
the PL-9 branches for the shortest and most efficient cable runs.
Installing the PL-9 The PL-9 can be used free standing or
mounted in a 1U 19” rack space. For free standing operation remove the
two rack ears using a T10 Torx head screwdriver and insert the four plastic
feet supplied by pressing them into the underside. Allow a minimum of
73mm clearance behind the unit for the connectors and cables. Ensure
adequate ventilation to the side of and behind the unit.
Wiring the system Use flame retardant CAT5 STP (shielded
twisted pair) cable fitted with RJ45 connectors. A standard 2 metre cable is
provided with the PL-9 for connection to the iDR. Do not use UTP cable.
We recommend the multi-stranded rather than solid conductor type. The
connection follows the EIA/TIA 568B wiring colour scheme. Ensure all
ports and cables in the system are wired to this scheme. The last PL
device in each branch should have its terminator fitted. Unused branches
do not require termination. Before connecting, read the information
provided with the PL devices used.
Check that your local mains supply is compatible with that printed on
the rear panel of the unit.
Observe the local standards which may apply to the installation
regarding the grade of cable and installation methods. Do not install
the equipment where it is subject to moisture, heat or vibration.
To ensure operator safety ensure that any exposed metal plates,
chassis and surfaces are correctly bonded to ground. The PL-9
chassis is grounded through its mains lead. Do not remove this
connection to ground.
Connect the PL-9 to the Allen & Heath PL-Anet port only. Do not
connect it to Ethernet, DR-Link or other RJ45 ports.
Before powering up the system make sure all the wiring is inspected
and continuity tested. This is important as wiring errors may result in
damage to the equipment.
Working with the iDR With the system connected, power up the
iDR audio processor. Check that iDR System Manager software version
V3.30 or later is running on both the iDR and the PC. Check that the PL-
Anet port is active. If not, use the File/Preferences/Communications
Options menu to select the PL-Anet port.
Switch on the PL-9 by pressing its rear panel ON/OFF switch. Check that
the POWER, CHAIN IN and CHAIN OUT indicators light up green indicating
that communication is established with the iDR. Check that the branch
indicators A to G are on indicating that power is available to the PL-Anet
cables. If any of these are turned off then unplug and test the cables for
faults. Power down for 1 minute to reset the branch fuses.
The iDR System Manager recognises the PL-9 hub and the connected PL
devices, giving each a unique address and identification. Each PL device
can be named with up to 16 characters. Configure the function of the PL
devices using the iDR System Manager software. For further information
refer to the Help file provided within the software.
This product complies with the European Electromagnetic Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC & 92/31/EEC.
NOTE: Any changes or modifications to the equipment not approved by Allen & Heath could void the compliance of the
equipment. Whilst we believe the information in this guide to be reliable we do not assume responsibility for inaccuracies. We also
reserve the right to make changes in the interest of further product development.
Copyright© 2003 Allen & Heath Ltd. All rights reserved.
141mm
5.5"
214mm
8.4"
73mm
2.9"
Remove 2x rack ears
Fit 4x feet
M3 Torx T10
branch GFEDCBA chain in chain out po wer PL-9
7 WAY PL-Anet HUB
PL-9 483mm
19"
443mm
17.4"
48mm
1.9"
44mm
1.7"
1U
IMPORTANT: