Kramer FC-404NETxl User manual

P/N: 2900-301534 Rev 1 www.kramerAV.com
USER MANUAL
MODEL:
FC-404NETxl
4x4 Audio and Dante Mixer

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Contents
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Contents
Introduction 1
Getting Started 1
Overview 2
Typical Applications 3
Defining FC-404NETxl 4
Mounting FC-404NETxl 5
Connecting FC-404NETxl 6
Connecting the Inputs 6
Connecting the Outputs 8
Connecting to FC-404NETxl via RS-232 8
Connecting to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet 9
Using Embedded Webpages 12
Browsing the FC-404NETxl Webpages 13
Using the Top Status Bar 14
Changing the input and output Labels 16
Selecting an input/output to route to the headphones 16
Routing Inputs to Outputs 17
Mixing Audio Signals 20
Configuring System Presets 23
Changing the Device Name 25
Upgrading the Firmware 26
Importing/Exporting Global Settings 26
Restarting and Resetting the Device 27
Defining Communication Settings 28
Setting Access Security 29
Viewing Device Information 32
Technical Specifications 33
Default Communication Parameters 34
Protocol 3000 35
Understanding Protocol 3000 35
Protocol 3000 Commands 36
Result and Error Codes 49

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Introduction
1
Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been providing a world
of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast range of problems that confront the
video, audio, presentation, and broadcasting professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we
have redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better!
Getting Started
We recommend that you:
•Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and packaging materials for
possible future shipment.
•Review the contents of this user manual.
Go to www.kramerav.com/downloads/FC-404NETxl to check for up-to-date user manuals,
application programs, and to check if firmware upgrades are available (where appropriate).
Achieving Best Performance
•Use only good quality connection cables (we recommend Kramer high-performance,
high-resolution cables) to avoid interference, deterioration in signal quality due to poor
matching, and elevated noise levels (often associated with low quality cables).
•Do not secure the cables in tight bundles or roll the slack into tight coils.
•Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances that may adversely influence
signal quality.
•Position your Kramer FC-404NETxl away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust.
Safety Instructions
Caution:
•This equipment is to be used only inside a building. It may only be connected to other
equipment that is installed inside a building.
•For products with relay terminals and GPIO ports, please refer to the permitted rating
for an external connection, located next to the terminal or in the User Manual.
•There are no operator serviceable parts inside the unit.
Warning:
•Use only the power cord that is supplied with the unit.
•To ensure continuous risk protection, replace fuses only according to the rating
specified on the product label which is located on the bottom of the unit.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Introduction
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Recycling Kramer Products
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC aims to reduce
the amount of WEEE sent for disposal to landfill or incineration by requiring it to be collected
and recycled. To comply with the WEEE Directive, Kramer Electronics has made
arrangements with the European Advanced Recycling Network (EARN) and will cover any
costs of treatment, recycling and recovery of waste Kramer Electronics branded equipment on
arrival at the EARN facility. For details of Kramer’s recycling arrangements in your particular
country go to our recycling pages at www.kramerav.com/il/quality/environment.
Overview
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer FC-404NETxl 4x4 Audio and Dante Mixer. FC-
404NETxl is a hybrid analog and Dante, audio cross-connect mixer. Input audio signals,
either analog lines/microphones or Dante audio over IP channels, are mixed and cross-
connected to the analog audio output lines and/or Dante audio over IP output streams. The
mixer accepts PoE via its network connection.
FC-404NETxl provides exceptional quality, advanced and user-friendly operation, and flexible
control.
Exceptional Quality
•High Performance Standard Mixer –Professional mixer, mixing any audio inputs to any
outputs, including auto analog to digital audio format conversion, flexible input or cross-
connect level and output gain adjustment. As a standard-compliant mixer, it connects to
any market-available AES67-compliant Dante product.
•Hi-quality Sound Mixer –Features a fully flexible and preset signal management. Mix,
route, and distribute any inputs and outputs in any audio format via simple click and
connect. Select and toggle through 10 presets in the device’s embedded web pages, or
use API commands for a simple setup change with Kramer’s recommended room
controller and adjustable level control.
Advanced and User-friendly Operation
•Easy mixing and cross-connecting control via embedded webpages and toggling
between preset mixer scenarios.
•Cost–Effective Maintenance –LED indicators for audio signals and network connection
status facilitate easy local maintenance and troubleshooting. Remote IP-driven device
management and optional whole site management system via built in web pages and
RS-232 connection. Local and remote firmware upgrade via RS-232 or Ethernet
connection tool ensure lasting, field proven deployment.
•Versatile Powering –Powered by PoE through the Dante port or by a mains power
adapter.

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FC-404NETxl –Introduction
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•Easy Installation –Single cable connectivity for both Ethernet signal and power.
Compact DemiTOOLS® fan–less enclosure for surface mounting or side–by–side
mounting of two units in a 1U rack space with the recommended rack adapter.
Flexible Connectivity
•Flexible Audio Cross-Connection –Fully configurable inputs, the analog lines, dynamic
or condenser microphones, and audio over IP Dante channels, are mixed, format-
converted and distributed to any set of outputs, either analog lines or audio over IP
Dante streams.
Typical Applications
FC-404NETxl is ideal for the following typical applications:
•Enterprise boardrooms and advanced conference rooms.
•Education lecture halls and auditoriums.
•Governmental large facilities with advanced audio mixing apps.
•Any application with hybrid analog and digital audio mixing and cross-connection needs.
Controlling your FC-404NETxl
Control your FC-404NETxl via:
•Ethernet, using built-in user-friendly webpages.
•RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a touch screen system, PC, or other serial
controller.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Defining FC-404NETxl
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Defining FC-404NETxl
This section defines FC-404NETxl.
Figure 1: FC-404NETxl 4x4 Audio and Dante Mixer Front Panel
#
Feature
Function
OUT LEDs (1 to 4)
Lights green when a signal is present, lights red when clipping is detected.
IN LEDs (1 to 4)
Lights green when a signal is present, lights red when clipping is detected.
Use the embedded web pages to select line level, mic level or 48V for each
input.
SYNC LED
Lights green when Dante network is available or red if an error occurred.
SYS LED
Lights green for digital audio normal operation.
Flashes green when this unit is the Master clock.
Lights red if an error has occurred.
Rx LED
Lights green when an RS-232 signal is received.
Tx LED
Lights green when an RS-232 signal is transmitted.
HEADPHONES
3.5mm Mini Jack
Connect to a headphone set.
ON LED
Lights green when the device is powered.
Figure 2: FC-404NETxl 4x4 Audio and Dante Mixer Front Panel
#
Feature
Function
AUDIO INPUTS 3-pin Terminal
block Connectors (1 to 4)
Connect to analog balanced mono line/mic level (with selectable
48V) sources.
AUDIO OUTPUTS 3-pin
Terminal block Connectors
(1 to 4)
Connect to analog balanced mono line level acceptors.
Dante RJ-45 Connector
Connect to Dante audio via the network. Provides 4 Tx channels
and 4 Rx channels. By default, DHCP is enabled.
RS-232 3-pin Terminal Block
Connector
Connect to a PC/serial controller.
ETHERNET RJ-45 Connector
Connect to a PC via a LAN.
RESET Recessed Button
Reset/reboot the device: press and release the button.
Reset to factory default values: press and hold the button for 30
secs.
12V DC Power Connector
12V DC connector for powering the unit.
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Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Mounting FC-404NETxl
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Mounting FC-404NETxl
This section provides instructions for mounting FC-404NETxl. Before installing, verify that the
environment is within the recommended range:
•Operation temperature –0to 40C (32 to 104F).
•Storage temperature –-40to +70C (-40 to +158F).
•Humidity –10% to 90%, RHL non-condensing.
Caution:
•Mount FC-404NETxl before connecting any cables or power.
Warning:
•Ensure that the environment (e.g., maximum ambient temperature & air flow) is
compatible for the device.
•Avoid uneven mechanical loading.
•Appropriate consideration of equipment nameplate ratings should be used for avoiding
overloading of the circuits.
•Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained.
•Maximum mounting height for the device is 2 meters.
Mount FC-404NETxl in a rack:
•Use the recommended rack adapter
(see www.kramerav.com/product/FC-404NETxl).
Mount FC-404NETxl on a surface using one of the following
methods:
•Attach the rubber feet and place the unit on a flat surface.
•Fasten a bracket (included) on each side of the unit and attach it to
a flat surface. For more information go to
www.kramerav.com/downloads/FC-404NETxl.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Connecting FC-404NETxl
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Connecting FC-404NETxl
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to your FC-404NETxl. After
connecting your FC-404NETxl, connect its power and then switch on the power to each
device.
Figure 3: Connecting to the FC-404NETxl Rear Panel
To connect FC-404NETxl as illustrated in the example in Figure 3:
1. Connect up to four balanced audio sources, (for example, 2 microphones and the audio
output signals of the Kramer VS-411XS and a laptop) to the AUDIO INPUT 3-pin
terminal block connectors (1 to 4).
To set to dynamic or condenser microphone, see Adjusting Analog Audio Input
Parameters on page 22.
2. Connect the AUDIO OUTPUT 3-pin terminal blocks to up to four balanced audio
acceptors, (for example, Kramer PA-240NET power amplifier).
3. Connect the Dante RJ-45 port to up to 4 Tx and 4 Rx audio channels, accepting PoE
(if supported), via the network.
4. Connect a control system (for example, a laptop) to the ETH RJ-45 connector .
5. If powering via PoE is not available, connect the power adapter to the FC-404NETxl and
plug the power adapter into the mains power supply.
Connecting the Inputs
Each input channel has a 3-pin terminal block connector that can accept either a balanced or
an unbalanced connection; however, an unbalanced connection requires some modifications.
The next two sections explain how to connect the FC-404NETxl to its input source.
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Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Connecting FC-404NETxl
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For any microphone that needs +48 volts of power, see Adjusting Analog Audio Input
Parameters on page 22.
Connecting Balanced Inputs
When using a balanced input source and connector, you must ensure that the hot, cold, and
ground pins of the connector are matched up to the +, –, and ground pins of the FC-
404NETxl terminal block connector respectively. The following diagrams illustrate how to
connect a standard XLR and 6.5mm phone jack.
Figure 4: Connecting a Balanced XLR Input
Figure 5: Connecting a Balanced 6.5mm Phone Jack
Connecting Unbalanced Inputs
When using an unbalanced input source, a jumper must be added between the negative (–)
and ground terminals. The unbalanced source is connected to the positive (+) and ground
terminals.
Note: A jumper is required for connecting an unbalanced input.
Figure 6: Connecting an Unbalanced RCA Input
Figure 7: Connecting an Unbalanced 6.5mm Phone Jack

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FC-404NETxl –Connecting FC-404NETxl
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Connecting the Outputs
Your FC-404NETxl is provided with a 3-pin terminal block for each output channel. This
connector offers a balanced output to interface with the input of another device.
Connection methods for balanced and unbalanced outputs are identical as the methods for
inputs as referenced in Connecting the Inputs on page 6.
Connecting to FC-404NETxl via RS-232
You can connect to FC-404NETxl via an RS-232 connection using, for example, a PC.
FC-404NETxl features an RS-232 3-pin terminal block connector allowing the RS-232 to
control FC-404NETxl.
Connect the RS-232 terminal block on the rear panel of FC-404NETxl to a PC/controller, as
follows:
From the RS-232 9-pin D-sub serial port connect:
•Pin 2 to the TX pin on the FC-404NETxl RS-232 terminal
block
•Pin 3 to the RX pin on the FC-404NETxl RS-232 terminal
block
•Pin 5 to the G pin on the FC-404NETxl RS-232 terminal block
RS-232 Device FC-404NETxl
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Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Connecting to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet
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Connecting to FC-404NETxl via
Ethernet
You can connect to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet using either of the following methods:
•Directly to the PC using a crossover cable (see Connecting Ethernet Port Directly to a
PC on page 9).
•Via a network hub, switch, or router, using a straight-through cable (see Connecting
Ethernet Port via a Network Hub on page 11).
Note: If you want to connect via a router and your IT system is based on IPv6, speak to your
IT department for specific installation instructions.
Connecting Ethernet Port Directly to a PC
You can connect the Ethernet port of FC-404NETxl directly to the Ethernet port on your PC
using a crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors.
This type of connection is recommended for identifying FC-404NETxl
with the factory configured default IP address.
After connecting FC-404NETxl to the Ethernet port, configure your PC as follows:
1. Click Start > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Change Adapter Settings.
3. Highlight the network adapter you want to use to connect to the device and click Change
settings of this connection.
The Local Area Connection Properties window for the selected network adapter appears
as shown in Figure 8.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Connecting to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet
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Figure 8: Local Area Connection Properties Window
4. Highlight either Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) or Internet Protocol Version 4
(TCP/IPv4) depending on the requirements of your IT system.
5. Click Properties.
The Internet Protocol Properties window relevant to your IT system appears as shown in
Figure 9 or Figure 10.
Figure 9: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties Window

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Connecting to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet
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Figure 10: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties Window
6. Select Use the following IP Address for static IP addressing and fill in the details as
shown in Figure 11.
For TCP/IPv4 you can use any IP address in the range 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.255
(excluding 192.168.1.39) that is provided by your IT department.
Figure 11: Internet Protocol Properties Window
7. Click OK.
8. Click Close.
Connecting Ethernet Port via a Network Hub or Switch
You can connect the Ethernet port of FC-404NETxl to the Ethernet port on a network hub or
using a straight-through cable with RJ-45 connectors.
Configuring Ethernet Port
You can set the Ethernet parameters via the embedded Web pages.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Using Embedded Webpages
The FC-404NETxl can be operated remotely using the embedded webpages. The webpages
are accessed using a Web browser and an Ethernet connection (see Browsing the FC-
404NETxl Webpages on page 13).
Before attempting to connect:
•Perform the procedures in Connecting to FC-404NETxl via Ethernet on page 9.
•Ensure that your browser is supported.
The following operating systems and Web browsers are supported:
Operating Systems
Versions
Windows 7
Chrome
Windows 10
Chrome
Mac
Chrome
Some features might not be supported by some cellphone operating systems.
The FC-404NETxl webpage enables performing the following functions:
•Using the Top Status Bar on page 14.
•Changing the input and output Labels on page 16.
•Selecting an input/output to route to the headphones on page 16.
•Routing Inputs to Outputs on page 17.
•Mixing Audio Signals on page 20.
•Configuring System Presets on page 23.
•Changing the Device Name on page 25.
•Upgrading the Firmware on page 26.
•Importing/Exporting Global Settings on page 26.
•Restarting and Resetting the Device on page 27.
•Defining Communication Settings on page 28.
•Setting Access Security on page 29.
•Viewing Device Information on page 32.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Browsing the FC-404NETxl Webpages
To browse the FC-404NETxl webpages:
1. Open your Internet browser.
2. Type the IP Address of the device in the Address bar of your browser. For example, the
default IP Address:
3. The authentication page appears.
4. Enter the Username and Password (Admin/Admin, by-default):
Figure 12: Embedded Webpages Authentication
5. Click Sign in.
The Matrix webpage appears.
Figure 13: FC-404NETxl Matrix Page with Navigation List on Left
6. Click the desired item in the navigation pane to set and control the device.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Using the Top Status Bar
Use the top status bar to perform the following functions:
•Viewing/Changing Current Analog I/O Configuration and Preset Name on page 14.
•Changing Security Settings on page 15.
•Entering/exiting full-screen display view by clicking the display-view icon ( / ).
Viewing/Changing Current Analog I/O Configuration and Preset
Name
The center of the menu bar in every webpage shows the analog I/O setup, the preset name
and the status of the setup.
The indication light displays:
•Green if the current preset unmodified.
Figure 14: Analog and/or Preset Status Unmodified
•Yellow if the current preset has been
modified.
Figure 15: Analog and/or Preset Status modified
To save a modified preset (yellow indication light):
1. Click the preset status area. The A/V settings page appears (see Figure 28).
2. Follow the instructions in Configuring System Presets on page 23.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Changing Security Settings
You can easily disable or enable the webpages security using the lock icon. When security is
disabled, you do not need to enter a password to access the webpages. When security is
enabled, you do. For information about the default login credentials, see Default
Communication Parameters on page 34. For information about changing the default login
credentials, see Setting Access Security on page 29.
To disable security settings:
1. Click the lock icon ( ) indicating that security is enabled.
The following message appears:
Figure 16: Disabling Security
2. Type the current password (Admin, by default).
3. Click OK.
Security is disabled.
To enable security settings:
Click the disabled lock icon ( ). The lock now shows as locked ( ).
Security is enabled.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Changing the input and output Labels
Change the input output name labels via the Matrix page.
To change an input/output label:
1. In the Navigation pane, click Matrix (or Mixer). The Matrix (Mixer) page appears.
2. Click an input or output label (for example, IN 1). The label is ready for editing.
Figure 17: Changing Input Level
3. Change the name and click .
Label name is changed.
Selecting an input/output to route to the headphones
The HEADPHONES connector on the FC-404NETxl front panel is used to monitor the
signal sound on the input and the output. You can select one output or input at a time to route
to the headphones.
To route a signal to headphones:
1. In the Navigation pane, click Matrix (or Mixer). The Matrix (Mixer) page appears.
2. Click the (headphones icon) in an input or output label (for example, IN 1).
The label turns green and that signal is routed to the headphones.
Figure 18: Routing a Signal to the Headphones
Signal is routed to headphones.
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Kramer Electronics Ltd.
FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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Routing Inputs to Outputs
Click a cross-point to connect any inputs to any of the outputs via the Matrix page and set the
connection volume.
FC-404NETxl enables performing the following functions:
•Connecting Inputs to Outputs on page 17.
•Setting Cross-Point Volume on page 19.
Connecting Inputs to Outputs
To route an input or several inputs to an output:
1. In the Navigation pane, click Matrix. The Matrix page appears.
2. Click an in-out cross-point (for example, IN 4 input and OUT 1 output).
The black cross-point turns green.
Figure 19: Matrix Page –In-Out Cross-Point

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FC-404NETxl –Using Embedded Webpages
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3. Click any other cross-points (one input to output/s or several inputs to output/s).
Figure 20: Matrix Page –Multiple Input-Output Cross-Point
Selected inputs are routed to selected outputs.