Fohhn AIREA ABX-5 User manual

USER MANUAL
EN
Please read this user manual through carefully before putting the system into operation and keep it for future reference.
AIREA
ABX-5
AIREA BREAK OUT EXTENSION

Contents
1. Introduction and General Instructions 3
1.1 Important Safety Instructions 3
1.1.1 Explanation of Terms 3
1.1.2 General Safety Instructions 3
1.1.3 Electrical Safety Information 4
1.1.4 Acoustic Safety Information 5
1.1.5 Connections and Cabling 5
1.2 Operating Conditions 6
1.2.1 Information on Abnormal Operation 6
1.3 Storage and Transportation 6
2. The Product 7
2.1 Product Description 7
2.2 Items Delivered 7
2.3 Unpacking 7
3. Connections and Status Messages 8
4. Operating modes 10
4.1 Use with a FOCUS VENUE system 10
4.2 Use as a Dante™ Breakout Module (AES/EBU + FOHHN-NET) 10
5. Setting up 11
5.1 Firmware Update for the ABX-5 11
6. Technical Specifications 13
7. Service and Repair 14
7.1 Maintenance Measures 14
8. Appendix 15

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8.1 Environmental Information 15
8.2 CE Marking and Declaration of Conformity 15
8.3 Trademarks 15
8.4 Disclaimer and Copyright 15
8.5 Contact Address 16

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1. Introduction and General Instructions
Congratulations on the purchase of your ABX-5 AIREA BREAK OUT EXTENSION. Due to demand, this module
has been specially developed as a compact, easy to use interface for the Dante™ audio network.
1.1 Important Safety Instructions
Please read the following safety instructions in their entirety before putting this device into operation. Keep these
instructions near the device at all times. Reading the user manual does not replace the need for awareness of
and compliance with currently applicable national safety regulations and standards, or the observance of safe on-
site working methods.
All information and technical specifications published here are based on data that was available at the time of
publication. We expressly reserve the right to make any changes.
1.1.1 Explanation of Terms
Danger
This signal word indicates a hazard with a high risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
Warning
This signal word indicates a hazard with a medium risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
Caution
This signal word indicates a hazard with a lower risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in minor to moderate
injury.
1.1.2 General Safety Instructions
Danger:
To avoid danger to life or limb, please ensure that all personnel involved in installing or dismantling this equipment
have read and understood the contents of this manual.
The information presented here should, however, be regarded as accompanying advice and it does not affect the
ultimate responsibility of the user to ensure safe on-site operation of a FOHHN system.
Warning:
To prevent injury caused by a fallen system,
• this device must be securely mounted in accordance with the assembly instructions and current safety
guidelines. Only use the specially designed FOHHN mounting accessories or components, which are
explicitly specified in the assembly instructions.
• this device must be regularly inspected for any signs of wear or loosening of the load-bearing
connections.

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• it is necessary to ensure that the mounting points on a building or structure have sufficient load-bearing
capacity and are structurally viable.
• all components of a hung (i.e. “flown”) device must be visually inspected before installation. Any part
showing signs of deformity, cracks, rust, fractured welds or other signs of wear must not be used under
any circumstances.
• the load limit of any component that will be used for system suspension (including shackles, chains and
hoists) must not be exceeded. In order to comply with local safety regulations, these load limits may, in
certain circumstances due to underlying safety factors (operating ratios), need to be recalculated and, if
necessary, reduced.
All components required for the mounting or suspension of a FOHHN system have been designed and
constructed in accordance and compliance with the following regulations that are applicable in Germany:
BGV-C1, BGI 810-3, DIN EN 1993-1-1, DIN EN 1999-1-1 and DIN 18032-2. The safety factor (operating
ratio) is therefore equal to or better than 10:1. If the system is to be used in countries that have stricter
requirements, the permissible load capacity must be reduced accordingly.
To avoid injury, the device must be stored, installed and operated well away from children.
To avoid injuries, this device must be taken out of operation, marked appropriately and protected against
accidental use if it
• shows visible signs of damage
• appears to contain loose parts
• is not working correctly
• has been subjected to unfavourable conditions (e.g. moisture) for a prolonged period
• has been subjected to poor transportation conditions (e.g. with unsuitable packaging or damp/humidity).
If necessary, please contact your FOHHN® dealer and the transportation company immediately.
1.1.3 Electrical Safety Information
AIREA BREAK OUT/IN EXTENSIONS are Protection Class 3 appliances. They are built and certified in
accordance with the VDE safety measures for electronic devices and, safety-wise, leave our factory in perfect
condition. The devices comply with all currently applicable EMC directives, confirmed by the attached CE
marking.
The relevant guidelines can be found in the appendix to this user manual!
Warning:
To minimize the risk of electric shock,
• the mains plug grounding pin must never be separated and under no circumstances should the plug be
taped up.
• the device must only be connected to a professionally tested shockproof socket.
• the device housing must never be opened. The device does not contain any components that can be
repaired by the user. In the unlikely case of a defect, please consult qualified service personnel and/or the
dealer from whom you purchased the system.
Please also ensure that the local mains supply voltage matches the power supply voltage specified on the device.

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To minimize the risk of an electric shock or fire,
• the device must not be subjected to moisture.
• containers filled with liquid (e.g. beverage containers) must not be placed on the device.
• ventilation slots must not be covered with objects (e.g. protective rain covers).
• the device must not be subjected to excessive heat, sunshine, fire or similar.
• no open sources of flame (e.g. pyrotechnics) must be placed on the device.
Caution:
To avoid damaging the device, do not leave the power cable plugged in if the device is not going to be used for a
while. (Remove the plug from the mains socket in order to completely disconnect the device!)
1.1.4 Acoustic Safety Information
FOHHN systems are capable of generating very high sound pressure levels, which can cause irreparable damage
to hearing.
Warning:
To avoid potential hearing impairment, never stand in close proximity (1 metre or less) to a system while it is in
operation.
To prevent both hearing impairment and damage to the device, avoid the following while the device is in
operation:
• acoustic feedback
• high powered, permanently distorted signals
• impulse noises, which can occur when a device is switched on or off, connected or disconnected from the
system.
1.1.5 Connections and Cabling
Please note the following when wiring up your system:
• Check that your cable is working faultlessly and only use cables with a sufficient cross section.
• Only use cabling- and connector materials that meet professional standards.
• Only use properly shielded cables and plugs for the audio and data connections.
• Only use power cables with a fully intact grounding pin and make sure that the device’s mains plug is
accessible at all times so that it can be quickly removed from the mains supply in the event of a
malfunction.
• Lay and secure the cabling so that it cannot be damaged by tools, or through being trapped by the device
or by a fixing bracket.
• Protect any laid cables from mechanical damage, or unnecessary traction.
• Avoid excessive tightening of the screws on connection terminals! (This only applies to fixed installation
systems.)
The wiring up of loudspeaker systems should only be carried out by suitably qualified personnel!

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1.2 Operating Conditions
Please note the following when operating your system:
• The permitted ambient temperature of the device during operation ranges from 0 °C to
+40 °C. A short period of use outside this temperature range is possible, but not advisable.
• The device is intended for use in a dry environment with normal levels of dust and humidity in the air.
• If any moisture has formed on the back of the device, either during transportation or storage, allow it to
acclimatise for approximately two hours before use.
• Never expose the device to any aggressive chemical fluids or vapours.
• Always make sure that heat can be dissipated via the outer surface of the device enclosure.
• Always make sure that the device is well ventilated. In order to ensure adequate cooling, the device must
not be covered with towels or cloths. Avoid letting the enclosure become hot through exposure to sunlight
or strong spotlights.
• Never expose the device to strong vibration.
1.2.1 Information on Abnormal Operation
The device should be immediately inspected by a Fohhn Audio AG approved service partner if
• a foreign body or liquid has got into the interior of the device,
• the device has been exposed to rain,
• the device is not working normally i.e. it is showing marked differences in performance,
• the device is damaged (e.g. after a fall).
1.3 Storage and Transportation
Please note the following:
• The device should only be transported in its original packaging.
• Store the device in a dry environment, with a constant ambient temperature, in order to avoid
condensation.
• The permitted ambient temperature range for storing the device is -10 °C to +70 °C.
• Due to fluctuations in temperature during transportation and storage, condensation may start to build up
on the surface of the device. Before operating the device, examine its surface for any signs of moisture. If
this is the case, allow the unpacked device to acclimatise for two hours in the environmental temperature
before using it.

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2. The Product
2.1 Product Description
The ABX-5 can be used in two ways:
1. As an interface between Dante™ audio networking and the modular active FOHHN FOCUS VENUE
loudspeaker system. In this situation, the ABX-5 does not need an additional external power supply.
2. As a Dante™ to AES/EBU Breakout module and FOHHN-NET Ethernet adapter.
In both cases FOHHN-NET control signals will be transmitted via Ethernet.
The ABX-5 is equipped with a Dante™ Brooklyn II module. It has a Dante™ Primary and Secondary port for
redundant applications.
2.2 Items Delivered
Every product is examined in accordance with the highest quality and safety standards prior to despatch.
Please check your product carefully for any signs of transport damage and, in the event of any damage having
occurred, inform your dealer and the transportation company immediately. Please also check that the packaging
contains all the components belonging to the device.
Your ABX-5 system is delivered with the following:
• 1 × ABX-5 AIREA BREAK OUT EXTENSION
• 1 × wall wart power supply
If the delivery does not appear to be complete, please contact your Fohhn® dealer!
2.3 Unpacking
When unpacking the product, we recommend the following procedure:
1. Open the packaging and take out the product.
2. Examine the product for any visible signs of transport damage.
If the product has been damaged, inform the transportation company immediately. A claim for transport
damage can only be made by the recipient (that is to say, you). Keep the packaging for examination by
the transportation company.
3. As a general rule, always retain the packaging. Despatch the product in appropriate outer packaging or in
a suitable flightcase.

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3. Connections and Status Messages
FOHHN-NET out
This RJ-45 output is intended for FOHHN-NET control signals.
receive LED
The green LED lights up when FOHHN-NET control signals are received.
send LED
The yellow LED lights up when the ABX-5 is sending FOHHN-NET control signals.
DC 12-48 V
An external 12 - 48V wall wart power supply can be connected to this DC socket.
AES/EBU out
This RJ-45 output is intended for digital AES/EBU signals.
AIREA-NET out
This RJ-45 output is intended for the AES/EBU signal and the FOHHN-NET control signals. The ABX-5 can also
be supplied with power via this socket (see Section 4.1 “Use with a FOCUS VENUE system“).
power LED
The green LED lights up when a supply voltage is present.

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on LED
The green LED lights up when a supply voltage is present.
Dante™ Primary
Digital audio signals (Dante™) and remote control signals (FOHHN-NET) can be fed via this RJ-45 input (1000
Base-T Ethernet).
Dante™ Secondary
This RJ-45 input (1000 Base-T Ethernet) is exclusively used for redundant cabling.

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4. Operating modes
4.1 Use with a FOCUS VENUE system
The ABX-5 can be directly used with a stack of FOCUS VENUE loudspeaker modules. In this situation, the
AIREA-NET output of the ABX-5 will be connected to the AIREA-NET input of the top loudspeaker module in the
stack.
Only use one ABX-5 unit per FOCUS VENUE stack!
The connected ABX-5 will be supplied with power via the FOCUS VENUE loudspeaker module – the Focus
Venue module must therefore be switched on via its power switch.
When the ABX-5’s AIREA-NET output is in use, the DC socket, AES/EBU output and the FOHHN-NET
output must not be connected to anything.
4.2 Use as a Dante™ Breakout Module (AES/EBU + FOHHN-NET)
The ABX-5 can also be used as a general Dante™ to AES/EBU breakout module and FOHHN-NET Ethernet
adapter. Here, the device must be used with an external wall wart power supply.
In this operating mode, the AIREA-NET output must not be connected to anything!

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5. Setting up
Using the FOHHN-NET network, you can remotely control and monitor the functionality of the integrated digital
signal processors (DSP) in active FOHHN loudspeaker systems. For this you will need a Windows PC with
FOHHN AUDIO SOFT software (Version 5.0.3 or later) installed.
When using an ABX-5, connection to the FOHHN-NET is via an Ethernet switch to which an appropriate Dante™
device will also be linked. For control via PC, Audinate’s Dante Controller software is required in addition to
FOHHN AUDIO SOFT.
You can download the Dante Controller software for free here:
https://www.audinate.com/products/software/dante-controller
5.1 Firmware Update for the ABX-5
To update the Dante™ Firmware on an ABX-5, the Dante Firmware Update Manager software is required.
You can download this for free via the following URL:
https://www.audinate.com/products/firmware-update-manager
Dante Firmware files have the extension .dnt and can be downloaded here:
https://www.fohhn.net/download/dante/
Example: Focus_1.0.2.dnt for FOCUS-SERIES Dante™ devices (e.g. FOCUS VENUE).
Perform the update as follows:
1. Start the Dante Firmware Update Manager.
2. Select the appropriate network interface and confirm your choice with Next.
3. Select Update Dante Firmware.

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4. Select the appropriate .dnt file and confirm your choice with Next.
5. Select the listed Dante™ device that is to be updated and click on Start.
6. After a full update, the Dante™ device should be restarted by switching off/on.
Here you can find all the Dante™ technical documentation from Audinate:
https://www.audinate.com/resources/technical-documentation
Here you can find a helpful introduction to identifying a Dante™ device if the IP address is not known:
https://www.audinate.com/faq/how-can-i-locate-dante-device-static-ip-address-unknown-subnet

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6. Technical Specifications
Electronic Features
Audio inputs Dante Primary/Secondary
Audio outputs AES/EBU 24 Bit / 48 kHz, AIREA-NET
Power supply wall wart 12 V – 48 V DC / 5 W, AIREA-NET 48 V
Power consumption 4 W, AIREA-NET Load max. 5 W
Connections
AIREA-NET 1 x RJ-45 out
FOHHN-NET 1 x RJ-45
AES/EBU output 1 x XLR male
Dante™ input 2 x RJ-45 (1000Base-T Ethernet Port)
DC input DC input for wall wart power supply
Display LEDs
Power on green = on (front and back)
FOHHN-NET receive green
FOHHN-NET send yellow

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7. Service and Repair
Servicing and/or repairs should only be undertaken by suitably qualified, FOHHN-trained personnel. Do not carry
out any servicing or any repairs to the device beyond what is listed in the “Maintenance Measures” section
below.
For details of a FOHHN Service provider in your area, please contact us at the address on the final page of this
manual.
Keep the packaging for your device so that, in the event of any problem occurring, it can be returned in its original
packaging. This will minimize the risk of any potential damage during transportation.
7.1 Maintenance Measures
• To clean your ABX-5, only use a dry or slightly damp, well wrung out towel.
• Do not use any aggressive cleaning agents, waxes or solvents (such as cleansing alcohol or paint
thinner), as these could spoil the appearance of the device and/or affect the paintwork on the enclosure.
• There are no user-serviceable parts within the device.
• The device must only be repaired by suitably qualified personnel.

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8. Appendix
8.1 Environmental Information
Please note that this product must not be disposed of in general household waste. It must be taken to a disposal
centre for electrical/electronic waste. Please also note any applicable national or local regulations. Further
information on these and on appropriate waste disposal facilities can be obtained from your city/town council as
well as from your local distribution partner.
8.2 CE Marking and Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with the currently applicable conditions of EMC law
and as such, carries the CE marking.
The relevant Declarations of Conformity are available on request from
Fohhn Audio AG, 72622 Nürtingen
8.3 Trademarks
All trademarks and brand names referred to in this manual, which may be protected by third parties, are subject to
the provisions of trademark law and the title rights of their respective owners. All trademarks, trade names or
company names appearing here are, or may be, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
All right are reserved, with the exception of those specifically granted.
In the absence of an explicitly labelled registered trademark in this manual, it cannot be necessarily concluded
that a name is free of third-party rights.
8.4 Disclaimer and Copyright
Disclaimer
The contents of this user manual have been created with great care. However, FOHHN AUDIO AG cannot
guarantee that the information therein (images, text and other representations) is always complete, correct and
current. FOHHN AUDIO AG therefore reserves the right to make changes or additions to the given information at
any time. Neither FOHHN AUDIO AG (as a public limited company), nor its Executive Board or employees take
any responsibility for direct or indirect damage, including loss of profit, which arises as a result of, or in connection
with, the information in this manual.

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Copyright
This manual as a whole, including its contents and works is, as such, subject to German copyright law. The
reproduction, editing, distribution and any other kind of use outside the limits of the copyright requires the written
consent of Fohhn Audio AG.
8.5 Contact Address
FOHHN AUDIO AG
Hohes Gestade 3-8
72622 Nürtingen
Germany
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.fohhn.com
[e-mail]
DB0088X 02/18