Rane HAL1 User guide

HAL
System Installation Guide
Halogen Software Version 1.0.0 17945
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REMOTE AUDIO DEVICES & DRS
DIGITAL REMOTES
EXPANSION BUS
ETHERNET
REMOTE AUDIO DEVICES
DIGITAL REMOTES
123412345678
4
12345678
321
LINK
LAN
LINK
LOCATE
FAULT
POWER
COMM
POWER
COMM
POWER
AUDIO TX
AUDIO RX
MIC / LINE INPUTS
LINE OUTPUTS
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
RELAY OUT
LOGIC IN
C
NC
NO
C
NC
NO
G
4
3
2
1
G
2
1
SHIELDED CAT5e OR BETTER 24 VDC @ 100 mA24 VDC @ 50 mA
ACN 001 345 482
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
MADE IN U.S.A.
RANE CORP.
HAL1
100-240 V
50/60 Hz 55 WATTS CLASS 2 WIRING
LOCATE
POWER
ACN 001 345 482
CLASS 2 WIRING
MADE IN U.S.A.
RANE CORP.
EXP1
100-240 V
50/60 Hz 30 WATTS
REMOTE AUDIO DEVICES & DRS
REMOTE AUDIO DEVICES
87654321
87654321
COMM
POWER
AUDIO TX
AUDIO RX
EXPANSION BUS
LINK
SHIELDED CAT 5e OR BETTER 24 VDC @ 100 mA
This device complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not
cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must
accept any interference
received, including
interference that may cause
undesired operation.
PUSH • SELECT
SCROLL
DR3
MICROPHONEMICROPHONE LINE OUTPUTLINE OUTPUT
SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
SIG / OL
POWER COMM
SIG / OLSIG / OL
RAD1 2
LINE INPUTMICROPHONE
SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
RAD2
SIG / OL
POWER COMM
MICROPHONE LINE INPUT
POWER COMM
SIG / OL SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
RAD7
LINE OUTPUTMICROPHONE
SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
SIG / OL
POWER COMM
RAD8
PUSH • SELECT
DR1
PUSH • SELECT
DR1
PUSH • SELECT
DR1
MICROPHONEMICROPHONE
SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
RAD1
SIG / OL
POWER COMM
LINE INPUT
MICROPHONE
SIG / OL
AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
RAD2
SIG / OL
POWER COMM PUSH • SELECT
SCROLL
DR2
LINE OUTPUT LINE OUTPUT
SIG / OL SIG / OL
POWER COMM AUDIO RX AUDIO TX
RAD4

HAL
System Installation Guide
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not open the unit.
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualied
service personnel.
e symbols shown below are internationally accepted symbols that
warn of potential hazards with electrical products.
is symbol indicates that a dangerous voltage
constituting a risk of electric shock is present
within this unit.
is symbol indicates that there are important
operating and maintenance instructions in the
literature accompanying this unit.
WARNING
ImpoRtANt SAfety INStRuctIoNS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, registers, stoves, or other apparatus (includ-
ing ampliers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has
two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. e wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord and plug from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, conve-
nience receptacles, and the point where it exits from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specied by Rane.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specied by the manufacturer, or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. e plug on the power cord is the AC mains disconnect device and must remain readily oper-
able. To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply
cord plug from the AC receptacle.
16. is apparatus shall be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
17. When permanently connected, an all-pole mains switch with a contact separation of at least 3
mm in each pole shall be incorporated in the electrical installation of the building.
18. If rackmounting, provide adequate ventilation. Equipment may be located above or below this
apparatus, but some equipment (like large power ampliers) may cause an unacceptable amount
of hum or may generate too much heat and degrade the performance of this apparatus.
19. is apparatus may be installed in an industry standard equipment rack. Use screws through all
mounting holes to provide the best support.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture. Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects lled with liquids,
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: Getting Started 1
The Installation Workflow 1
Introduction to the HAL System 4
Hardware Components 4
Software Component 5
System Requirements 6
Minimum Requirements for Running Halogen 6
Recommendations for Best Performance 6
Administrative Rights Requirements 7
Required Ports 7
Required Processes 8
Using the HAL System Documentation 8
CHAPTER 2: Hardware Component Details 10
HAL1 Device 10
Rear Panel Description 11
Front Panel Description 13
Remote Audio Devices 15
How the CAT 5 Cabling is Utilized 15
The Parts of a RAD 16
Pager1 RAD 18
AM1 and AM2 RADs 19
Digital Remote Devices 20
Available Digital Remote Models 21
Expansion Units 24
CHAPTER 3: Installing Your HAL System 25
Task 1: Install and Connect HAL 25
Task 2: Installing and Connecting HAL Expansion Units 27
Task 3: Configuring HAL 28
iii

Task 4: Pulling and Terminating CAT 5 Cabling 30
Task 5: Installing and Connecting RADs and DRs 31
Task 6: Installing and Connecting Analog Devices 36
Task 7: Verify and Troubleshoot Installation 36
CHAPTER 4: Introduction to the Halogen Software 40
Basic Structure 40
Workspace Layout 41
Installing and Starting the Halogen Software 42
Uninstalling the Halogen Software 43
Upgrading Halogen Software and HAL Firmware 43
Generating Device Labels 45
Locating a Device 46
Swapping Hardware Devices 47
CHAPTER 5: Troubleshooting Your HAL System Installation 49
Troubleshooting the HAL Hardware 49
Troubleshooting RAD Devices 51
Troubleshooting DR Devices 53
Troubleshooting the HAL Connection 54
Using Meters to Troubleshoot 57
Rane Technical Support 57
Index 58
Warranty Information 61
Declaration of Conformity 63
HAL SYSTEM INSTALLATION GUIDE
iv

CHAPTER 1: Getting Started
Welcome to the world of HAL!
To help you get started with the installation of the HAL System, we have provided a simple
breakdown of the key installation tasks—presented in the recommended order. If you are new to
the HAL System, we recommend that (after reviewing this workflow) you spend a few moments
reviewing the basics of the system before actually beginning the installation. We understand that
your job is to get this system installed as quickly and efficiently as possible, but a slight detour
to review the product details is well worth your time. See "Introduction to the HAL System" on
page 4.
The Installation Workflow
There are seven key tasks involved in the installation of a HAL System. An overview of each
task is listed below, along with page references to the specific details for each task. We rec-
ommend that you review this entire list to get a sense of the work flow, and then return to the
first task to begin the actual installation process. Note that the order of some of these tasks can
vary. See each task description for more details.
Task 1: Install and connect the HAL.
This task involves the physical attachment of the HAL hardware to your audio rack. You can per-
form this task off-site or on-site. Once installed, you then connect other devices to the HAL and,
if necessary in your environment, connect the HAL to your Ethernet network. If you are installing
onsite, you may want to pull and terminate the CAT 5 cabling first (see "Task 4: Pulling and Ter-
minating CAT 5 Cabling" on page 30) so that the cables are ready to connect to the HAL. For
details on installing the HAL, see "Task 1: Install and Connect HAL" on page 25.
Task 2: Install and connect HAL Expansion Units (if needed).
If your system requires one or more Expansion Units (EXPs), you should install and connect them
to the HAL before beginning the installation of your Remote Audio Devices (RADs) and Digital
Remotes (DRs). For details, see "Task 2: Installing and Connecting HAL Expansion Units" on
page 27.
Task 3: Configure the system.
Before the system can function properly, you must configure the hardware (the HAL, EXPs,
RADs, and DRs) as well as the audio processing and path. You perform this configuration using
the Halogen software that is shipped with the HAL hardware. (The software is also available on
the Rane website at rane.com/hal.) You can configure the system by loading a configuration file
that contains the appropriate hardware settings, audio flow, and processing; or you can create the
configuration directly on a live device. We strongly recommend using a configuration file as a
starting point!
In most cases, the audio designer will have already created this configuration file, which makes
your installation job much easier. All you have to do is load the file into the HAL device. For
the purposes of this guide, we have assumed this scenario—that the configuration file has already
been created for you. If not—well, you’re going to need to do a little more reading. You can find
additional information about configuration files in the Halogen Help System (accessed from the
1

Halogen software) as well as in the HAL System Design Guide (available on your product DVD as well
as on the Rane website).
NOTE:If the final configuration is to be completed later, but you merely want to install the equip-
ment and make sure the system can send and receive audio, you can create a very simple con-
figuration to accomplish this. See "Creating a Verification Configuration" on page 38 for more
information.
Regardless if you’re creating a new configuration or simply loading a pre-defined configuration, you
will need to install, start, and use the Halogen software.
NOTE:Where this configuration task falls in the installation process is somewhat flexible. If you
prefer, you can install and connect the RADs, DRs, and EXPs prior to loading the configuration
file. There are advantages, however, in loading the configuration first. Whether or not the con-
figuration is loaded, as long as the HAL is powered on and connected prior to installing the
peripheral devices, you can determine immediately upon installing a RAD, DR, or EXP (by
observing its status indicators) if it is functioning properly. But if the configuration is also in
place, you can immediately determine if the RAD or DR model you just installed matches the
model specified in the HAL configuration (if there’s a mismatch, the RAD’s LEDs flash red and
the DR's LCD screen displays Configuration Mismatch). Also, if you have wireless access to the
HAL, loading the configuration file early in the process makes it possible to then view the con-
figuration from a laptop as you’re installing the RADs, DRs, and EXPs. If you do not have a con-
figuration file and you plan to simply test that the installed equipment can successfully send and
receive audio, disregard this recommendation. You will create a simple test configuration after
you have installed all of the equipment.
Task 4: Pull and terminate the CAT 5 cabling for the RADs and DRs.
Each RAD and DR connects to the HAL via a CAT 5 cable. We recommend pulling this cable prior to
installing the RADs and DRs. Doing so makes it much easier to troubleshoot their installation. Note
that each RAD and DR requires a home run. As noted in the previous task, if the CAT 5 cables are
installed and terminated, and the HAL is powered on and connected, you can verify if the RADs and
DRs are working properly as soon as you connect them. For details on this task, see "Task 4: Pulling
and Terminating CAT 5 Cabling" on page 30.
Task 5: Install and connect the individual RADs and DRs.
This task involves the connection of the RADs and DRs to the CAT 5 cable, followed by the physical
installation of the RADs and DRs into the switchboxes in the wall. A key part of this task is to double-
check that you are installing the correct RAD and DR models in each location. The wiring diagram
should specify which RAD and DR models go in which locations. Also, if you load the HAL con-
figuration prior to installing the RADs and DRs, you can view the RAD and DR status indicators to
determine if you have installed the correct model. If the models do not match, the bottom four LED indi-
cators on the RAD flash red, while the DR LCD screen displays Configuration Mismatch. In addition
to verifying that you’ve installed the correct model, this task involves the verification that the RAD
and DR hardware is communicating properly with the HAL. Again, the RAD and DR status indicators
provide this information. For details, see "Task 5: Installing and Connecting RADs and DRs" on page
31.
HAL SYSTEM INSTALLATION GUIDE
2

Task 6: Install and connect all analog devices.
This task needs little explanation and is here simply to suggest where in the workflow we recommend
the installation and connection of analog devices. The HAL provides you with analog inputs and out-
puts. You know what to do with them!
Task 7: Verify connections, perform audio test, troubleshoot, and save the final con-
figuration.
After installing the HAL, EXP device(s), RADs, DRs, connecting any other analog devices, and loading
the configuration file, you need to verify that everything is working properly. See "Task 7: Verify and
Troubleshoot Installation" on page 36.
NOTE:If you do not have a pre-defined configuration file but you want to verify that the hardware
is working, you need to create a simple verification configuration. See "Creating a Verification
Configuration" on page 38 for more information.
You’ll be happy to learn that Rane has taken much of the guesswork out of the verification process.
Although you will review the status indicators on the HAL, EXPs, RADs, and DRs at the time you
install these components, we recommend double-checking these indicators in the final verification task.
There are three primary sources of information to help you quickly troubleshoot any problem:
1. RAD LEDs and DR LCD screens: By simply viewing the LEDs on the front of a RAD and
the DR LCD screen, you can see immediately if the device is receiving power, if its data com-
munications connection is working, and if its model matches the model configured for the port
to which it is attached. With a RAD, you can also see if its transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) func-
tionality is working, if it is actively receiving an audio signal, and if its audio signal is over-
loading.
2. HAL LEDs: LEDs on the HAL provide power and signal information for all the connected
RADs and DRs as well as information about the Expansion Bus network and Ethernet network
(if applicable).
3. Halogen messages: After the configuration file is loaded into the HAL, you can use Halogen to
determine if you installed the appropriate RADs and DRs in each location or if a RAD or DR is
configured incorrectly. The software displays color-coded messages telling you of any problems.
The software also contains the configured audio flow, which you should examine if there are
audio problems that cannot be traced to a hardware issue. It’s possible that something in the
audio flow (in Halogen's Processing Workspace) was configured incorrectly.
When you have completed the installation, fully tested the system, and feel confident that the con-
figuration is accurate, SAVE AND BACK UP THE CONFIGURATION FILE! If you or someone else
inadvertently (or even deliberately) changes configuration settings on a live device and, as a result the
system stops working, you will be very happy that you have a backup. For more details, see "Save the
Final Configuration File" on page 38.
Now, on with the installation (after reviewing the basics of the system, of course!).
CHAPTER 1: Getting Started
3

Introduction to the HAL System
The HAL System, Rane's revolutionary new audio product, makes it possible for you to solve age-old
audio issues with a simple click or two (or sometimes three). In designing this system, Rane's engineers
have anticipated the needs of the installer, the designer, and the end user, resulting in an intuitive and
relatively simple system to operate. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can accomplish tasks that
used to take hours.
The HAL System includes both hardware and software components. This system introduction provides
a broad overview of these components.
Hardware Components
The primary hardware component in a HAL System is the HAL host device. There is only one HAL
device per system. HAL serves as the system's brain to which you connect other slave devices such as
analog audio equipment, Remote Audio Devices (RADs), Digital Remotes (DRs), Expansion Units
(EXPs), and more. Inside HAL is a DSP processor that manages the audio as well as a host processor
that manages other aspects of the system.
The following graphic provides a visual of an entire HAL System :
HAL SYSTEM INSTALLATION GUIDE
4

Software Component
Included in the HAL System is a software application, called Halogen, that you use to configure and
manage the entire system. Halogen contains two primary graphical workspaces, the Hardware Workspace
and the Processing Workspace, in which you simply drag and drop hardware components and processing
blocks to set up the audio system you want. You can work in online mode (connected to HAL) or off-
line mode (not connected to HAL or any other hardware). The ability to work in offline mode makes Hal-
ogen a powerful design tool available for use whether or not you have the hardware in hand. And not
only can you design your system without having hardware in place, you can also test your system before
you install the hardware! Now that's powerful!
NOTE:When working in online mode, changes made in the software are immediately implemented
and saved to HAL (with the exception of DSP changes that require a system recompile).
Below is a sample image of the Halogen Processing Workspace:
For more details on the Halogen software application, see "Introduction to the Halogen Software" on
page 40.
CHAPTER 1: Getting Started
5

System Requirements
To use a HAL System, the following items are required:
lYou must have access to a computer running Microsoft Windows XP (Service Pack 3 or higher),
Vista (Service Pack 1 or higher), or Windows 7. The computer must also have an Ethernet port,
which you use to connect the computer to the HAL device (either directly or via an Ethernet net-
work). This connection is necessary for using the Halogen software to load configuration infor-
mation into the device and also for monitoring detailed status information. Note that some status
information is visible on the hardware itself.
lYou must have administrative rights to install the Halogen software, but you do not need admin-
istrative rights to run the software.
lMost RADs require two, three, or four-gang standard switchboxes (for installation into a wall). A
DR1 requires a one-gang switchbox, while a DR2 and DR3 require two-gang switchboxes.
Switchboxes used for both RADs and DRs must have a minimum depth of 2 1/4" (57 mm).
Minimum Requirements for Running Halogen
lWindows XP SP3 (32-bit) or Vista SP1 (32 or 64-bit), or 7 (32 or 64-bit)
lPC with 1.6 GHz Dual Core Processor (for example, Intel Core Duo, AMD Athlon X2)
l1 GB RAM
l2 GB available hard disk space
lDisplay Resolution: 1024x768, 24 bit color
lEthernet adapter: 100baseT
lDVD Drive for installation from DVD (or can install from Rane website)
Recommendations for Best Performance
lWindows 7 (32 or 64-bit)
lPC with mid-level processor @ 2GHz multi-core or better (for example, Intel i3, AMD Athlon II)
l2 GB RAM
l2 GB available hard disk space
lDisplay Resolution: 1280 x 1024, 24-bit color
lDisplay Adaptor: supports rendering tier 1 or 2 (see http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/li-
brary/ms742196.aspx) (i.e. directX 9.0 or greater)
lEthernet adapter: Gigabit
HAL SYSTEM INSTALLATION GUIDE
6

Administrative Rights Requirements
The following table outlines which Halogen tasks require administrative rights and which do not:
Requires administrative rights Does not require administrative
rights
lInstalling Halogen
lInstalling software updates to Halogen
lManually starting or stopping the Ranelink
II service
lRunning and using Halogen
lUpdating the HAL firmware
Required Ports
Halogen and HAL exchange information using the following ports and protocols:
Port Protocol Purpose
68 UDP DHCP Client (see note below)
4992 TCP Meter control messages
4993 TCP Configuration messages
4994 UDP Discovery broadcast messages
4994 TCP RaneLink II1communication messages
4995 TCP Meter data
NOTE:Halogen and HAL might both use port 68 to communicate with a DHCP server. This port is
not actually used for communication between Halogen and HAL.
HAL devices send occasional UDP broadcast messages. RaneLink II listens constantly for these messages
and, when it receives one, it does three things, if necessary:
lSets up a temporary link-local IP address (in other words, the address is cleared when the com-
puter reboots) on the appropriate network interface card (NIC).
lAdds an entry to the computer's network route table. RaneLink II maintains the list of HAL
devices and it must be running for Halogen to communicate with a HAL, even if the HAL has
been located by a manual search.
lOpens and maintains a TCP connection with HAL so that it can receive status updates.
1A service needed by Halogen to establish a connection with HAL.
CHAPTER 1: Getting Started
7

Required Processes
The following processes are required for working with the HALSystem and for establishing a con-
nection between Halogen and HAL.
Process Purpose Location
Halogen.exe‡
Use to design your entire audio
system and connect to your HAL
device.
C:\Program Files\Rane Cor-
poration\Halogen\Halogen.exe
hal1.pcops.exe‡
Simulates the behavior of a HAL
when Halogen is not connected
to a HAL. Allows for testing of
such things as control links and
presets, even when not connected
to a HAL.
C:\Program Files\Rane Cor-
poration\Halogen\hal1.pcops.exe
RaneLink.exe A service needed by Halogen to
establish a connection with HAL.
C:\Program Files\Rane Cor-
poration\RaneLink\RaneLink.exe
‡If running 64-bit Vista or Windows 7, you can find Halogen.exe and hal1.pcops.exe in the Program
Files (x86) directory.
Using the HAL System Documentation
A variety of documentation is available to help you get started with and use your HALSystem:
Halogen Help System
A comprehensive help system is installed with the Halogen software. It contains all the infor-
mation you need to work with the system. There are several ways to access the Help System:
lClick the Help icon on the application toolbar: Clicking the icon itself opens the
Help System. Clicking the down arrow displays a list of options including such things as
access to the Rane website, checking for updates to the Halogen software, and sending an
email to Rane.
lClick the Help icon that appears in the upper right corner of Halogen dialog boxes.
Clicking this icon opens the Help topic related to the specific dialog box. From there you
can access the entire Help System, if needed.
lRight-click on different elements in the user interface. A Help option appears in the context
menu. Click this option to open the relevant Help topic. Pressing F1 when an area of the
user interface has focus also displays its relevant Help topic.
lTo search for information within the Help System, you can use the tabs on the Help
Viewer's left pane to search the index (click the Index tab) or perform a full-text search
(click the Search tab). You can also use the Quick search box in the Help System toolbar
to search for text within the currently displayed topic:
HAL SYSTEM INSTALLATION GUIDE
8

HAL System Design Guide
This guide is offered as a PDF file and contains a product overview, details about the HAL Sys-
tem's key features, and best practices for designing a HAL audio system. Note that the information
in this guide is also available in the Halogen Help System. You can find this guide on the Rane
website as well as on the product DVD.
HAL System Installation Guide
This guide, the one you are reading, is offered in both a PDF and hardcopy format, and includes
step-by-step instructions on installing the HALhardware, loading a configuration, and testing the
system. This information is also included in the Halogen Help System. You can find this guide on
the Rane website and product DVD, and as a printed guide in the product package.
CHAPTER 1: Getting Started
9

CHAPTER 2: Hardware Component Details
This chapter provides details about the HALSystem hardware devices that you'll be installing.
HAL1 Device
The HAL1 host device (which is referred to as HAL throughout this guide) is the brain that con-
trols the entire HALSystem. It can connect to a variety of other hardware (or slave devices) such
as analog equipment, RADs, DRs, and EXPs. Inside the HAL hardware is a host controller that
controls DSP operations and manages control links, presets, and more. There is only one HAL
device per system. You cannot connect one HAL to another.
NOTE FOR DRAG NET USERS:The DSP processing engine in the HAL1 device is four times
more powerful than the RPM88.
Maximum Device Connections
The device connections that are possible on a HAL1 are as follows:
l4 Remote Audio Devices (RADs)
l8 Digital Remotes (DRs)—Can add up to 4 more by plugging them into the RAD ports
l1–4 Expansion Unit Devices (EXPs)
l8 Mic/Line Inputs
l8 Line Outputs
l4 Logic Inputs
l2 Relay Outputs
Other Functionality
In addition to hosting other hardware devices and managing system operations, HAL also does
the following:
lProvides power to connected RADs, DRs, and EXPs
lStores configuration settings and compatible firmware for itself and for each connected
RAD, DR, and EXP
lProvides a connection to an Ethernet network (for control of HAL and the connected
devices)
lDisplays various status indicators (LEDs) providing information about the health of the sys-
tem
10

Rear Panel Description
1. The Power IEC jack connects to AC line voltage, 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz.
2. Fault, Locate, and Power LEDs
The Fault LED flashes red when something in the hardware goes awry. The first step in trou-
bleshooting the problem is to open the Halogen software and check the status of this HAL
device.
The Locate LED flashes green when you place this HAL device in Locate Mode (via the Hal-
ogen software). The purpose of this Locate functionality is for verification, when working in the
software, of the physical device you are configuring or viewing.
The Power LED lights when the HAL hardware is powered on.
3. Ethernet port and LAN and Link LEDs
Use this port to connect HAL to an Ethernet switch or directly to a computer.
NOTE:This Ethernet port contains auto-MDIX functionality, which means that you can
use either a standard Ethernet patch cable or a crossover cable to connect to a computer or
Ethernet switch. The auto-MDIX functionality takes care of coordinating the proper con-
nection between the devices.
The Ethernet LAN LED flashes when HAL detects any Ethernet packets on the network. The
Link LED indicates if the Ethernet network is connected. If HAL is connected to an Ethernet
network but the Link LED is off, there is likely a problem with the connection.
4. Expansion Bus LED and port
Use the Expansion Network port to connect an Expansion Network device (such as an EXP1)
to the HAL via Firewire1. To attach additional Expansion Network devices to your HAL Sys-
tem, use a Firewire cable to connect each new device to the previous device—in a daisy chain
style.
1A form of connectivity similar to USB, meant to connect peripherals such as MP3 Players and digital
cameras to the computer. The HAL System uses FireWire to connect Expansion Units to the HAL
device. FireWire operates around 30 times faster than a USB 1.1 connection. FireWire is technically
known as IEEE-1394.
CHAPTER 2: Hardware Component Details
11

If lit, the Expansion Network Link LED indicates that the Expansion Network device is com-
municating properly with HAL. If an Expansion Network device is properly connected to the
port yet the status LED remains dark, there is likely a problem with the connection.
5. Digital Remote Device ports
Use these ports to connect each DR to the HAL via a standard CAT 5 cable. You must use a
standard Ethernet patch cable for this connection. There are 8 DR ports on a HAL1 device. If
you need more than 8 DR connections, you can use a RAD port to connect a DR.
6. Remote Audio Device ports
Use these ports to connect each RAD to the HAL via a standard CAT 5 cable. You must use a
standard Ethernet patch cable for this connection. There are 4 RAD ports on a HAL1 device. If
you need more RAD connections, you will need to connect an Expansion Unit with RAD
ports (such as an EXP1) to your HAL device. You cannot connect a RAD to a DR port.
7. Digital Remote Device LEDs
Provides information about the health of the CAT 5 connection between each DR and HAL.
The numbers 1 through 8 correspond to the DR ports 1 through 8 in the lower area of the rear
panel. The Comm LED (on the top row) lights solidly if the DR's data communications pair is
working properly. The Power LED (on the bottom row) lights solidly if HAL is supplying
adequate power to the DR port.
8. Remote Audio Device LEDs
Provides status information about the health of the CAT 5 connection between each RAD and
HAL. The numbers 1 through 4 correspond to the RAD ports 1 through 4 in the lower right
corner of the rear panel. For example, the LEDs for number 1 provide information about the
RAD connected on port 1. Each LED corresponds with one twisted pair within the CAT 5
cable. If the twisted pair is functioning properly, the LED displays a solid green light.
lAudio Rx LED—lights solidly if the HAL receive pair is working properly.
lAudio Tx LED—lights solidly if the HAL transmit pair is working properly.
lComm LED—lights solidly if the RAD's data communications pair is working prop-
erly.
lPower LED—lights solidly if HAL is supplying adequate power to the RAD port.
NOTE:The Remote Audio Device LEDs on the front panel differ from those on the rear
panel. The front panel LEDs provide information about signal activity on each audio
channel. See the "Front Panel Description" on next page for more details.
9. Relay Out ports
Reed relay ports used to signal another device. A common implementation is to link a relay
port to a Toggle control so that an end user can change its value. Also, the Halogen software
contains a checkbox for each relay port, the value of which you can include in a preset or link
to another control, making it possible to use a preset or control to turn the relay port on or off.
HAL1 contains two Relay Out ports.
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10. Logic In ports
Use these TTL 5-volt digital logic input ports to communicate to the HAL System via an exter-
nal control device. You can configure each Logic In port to control a selector, toggle, or com-
mand within the HAL System. For example, you might use a Logic In port to select between
two audio channels, or to mute the whole system.
11. Mic/Line Input ports
Use these ports to connect up to 8 analog microphones or line input devices. Note that the Mic
In ports support phantom power.
12. Line Output ports
Use these ports to connect up to 8 analog line output devices, such as amplifiers.
Front Panel Description
1. Mic/Line Inputs LEDs
Provides status information about the mic/line analog inputs connected to the HAL. The
numbers 1 through 8 correspond to the mic/line input ports 1 through 8 on the rear panel.
These LEDs provide information on the following:
lOverload LED (red) – indicates that the mic/line input is experiencing a signal overload
lSignal LED (green) – indicates the presence of an audio signal on the mic/line input
2. Line Outputs LEDs
Provides information about the HAL analog outputs. The numbers 1 through 8 correspond to
the line output ports 1 through 8 on the rear panel.
These LEDs provide information on the following:
lOverload LED (red) – indicates that the line output is experiencing a signal overload
lSignal LED (green) – indicates the presence of an audio signal on the line output
3. Digital Remotes LEDs
Indicates which Digital Remotes are enabled. Each numbered LED corresponds to the Digital
Remote port with the same number. If a Digital Remote is connected on a port but its Enabled
LED is off, there is likely a problem with the CAT 5 connection or with the Digital Remote
itself. If an Enabled LED is flashing, it indicates that the physical Digital Remote model does
not match the Digital Remote model specified for this port in the HAL configuration.
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4. Remote Audio Ports status indicators
Provides information about the RAD audio channels. The numbers 1 through 4 at the top of
the front panel correspond to the RAD ports 1 through 4 on the back of the HAL. For exam-
ple, the LEDs for number 1 provide information about the RAD connected on port 1.
Under each RAD number are LEDs for four audio channels, two input and two output. These
four LEDs represent the maximum number of channels a RAD is capable of transporting. How-
ever, not all RAD models use all four channels. For example, the RAD1 model provides two
microphone inputs, so for that model, only the two columns of indicators labeled IN would be
active.
These LEDs provide information on the following:
lOverload LED (red)–indicates that the channel is experiencing a signal overload
lSignal LED (green)–indicates the presence of an audio signal on this channel
lEnabled LED (yellow)–indicates the availability of the associated audio channel. If a
RAD is connected on this port and all Enabled lights are off, this indicates a problem
with the CAT 5 connection or with the RAD. If the Enabled LEDs are flashing, this
indicates that the physical RAD model does not match the RAD model specified for
this port in the HAL configuration.
5. The Ethernet Comm and Link LEDs
Provides status information about the HAL Ethernet connection.
lComm LED (yellow) – flashes when HAL has been discovered by at least one PC run-
ning RaneLink II1, is solid when Halogen is exclusively connected to HAL, is off
when HALhas yet to be discovered.
lLink LED (green) – indicates if the Ethernet network is connected. If the HAL is con-
nected to an Ethernet network but the Link LED is off, this indicates a problem with the
connection.
6. The Expansion Network LED
If lit, indicates that an Expansion Network device is properly connected to the HAL. If an
Expansion Network device is properly connected to the port and powered on yet the status
LED remains dark, there is likely a problem with the connection.
7. Fault, Locate, and Power LEDs
The Fault LED flashes red when something in the hardware goes awry. The first step in trou-
bleshooting the problem is to open the Halogen software and check the status of this HAL
device.
The Locate LED flashes green when you place this HAL device in Locate Mode (via the Hal-
ogen software). The purpose of this Locate functionality is for verification, when working in
the software, of the physical device you are configuring or viewing.
The Power LED lights when the HAL hardware is powered on.
1A service needed by Halogen to establish a connection with HAL.
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Remote Audio Devices
The primary purpose of a Remote Audio Device (RAD) is to amplify, digitize, and transmit a digital
audio signal via CAT 5 cable to a HAL host device. RADs can also receive a digital signal from the
HAL and then convert it to analog before sending it to its attached audio equipment. RADs are capable
of transmitting and receiving up to four channels of digital audio (two in each direction). To better fit
your needs, however, Rane offers various RAD models. Most RAD models are designed to fit in a stand-
ard U.S. two, three, or four gang switchbox.
The HAL System offers a variety of RAD models, each of which serves a unique purpose. For example, a
RAD1 contains two microphone input channels. When you design an audio system, you choose the
RAD models that are appropriate for your application. You must then provide configuration information
to HAL so that it knows which RAD models to expect on each port and what information to send to
each RAD. For more information, see "Available RAD Models" in the Halogen Help System. You can
also read about the available RAD models on the Rane website.
How the CAT 5 Cabling is Utilized
The CAT 5 cable that connects the RAD to HAL also provides power to the RAD as well as a path for
data communications. Data communications makes it possible to control the RAD’s configuration set-
tings, view status information, and update a RAD’s firmware – all from the host HAL device. The fol-
lowing picture illustrates how the four twisted pairs within the CAT 5 cable are utilized.
lThe orange pair is reserved for data communications between the RAD and HAL. Data com-
munications is needed for such things as sending configuration information from HAL to the
RAD, sending firmware updates from HAL to the RAD, and sending status information from the
RAD to HAL.
NOTE:Configuration information for a specific RAD (for example, LED intensity, microphone sen-
sitivity, and RAD and channel names) is stored in the HAL device, not in the RAD. This makes it
easy to swap in a new RAD, if necessary, without losing configuration data.
lThe green and blue pairs carry two channels each of balanced, differential, digital audio. Tx refers
to audio that the RAD sends to the HAL. Rx refers to audio that the RAD receives from HAL.
lThe brown pair provides 24 VDC power and ground for the RAD. This is (obviously) the wire
you should check if it appears a RAD is not receiving power.
NOTE:Digital Remotes (discussed on page 20) use only the orange pair (for data communications)
and the brown pair (for power).
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The Parts of a RAD
Following is an illustration of the front of a typical RAD, accompanied by descriptions of the RAD’s
various hardware features:
1. Label: a location on the RAD for inserting a custom label. One possible use of this label is to
identify the channel number associated with the corresponding jack.
2. XLR Tab: push tab for releasing a microphone cable. If you do not need this tab, you should
remove it before installing the RAD. For more information, see the RAD installation instruc-
tions beginning on page 31.
3. Input/Output jacks: the actual jacks to which you connect the appropriate audio device(s). The
jacks differ based on the RAD model.
4. Sig/OL LED: displays a green light when an audio signal is detected, displays a red light
when the channel is experiencing a signal overload.
5. Power LED: displays a solid green when the RAD is receiving power, displays solid red if the
voltage received is lower than expected.
6. Comm LED: displays a solid green when the RAD detects two things—the communication
pair of wires and that communication is established between the HAL and RAD. The light dis-
plays solid red if the RAD cannot communicate with the HAL. This is likely due to a problem
with the communications pair of wires.
7. Audio Rx LED: displays solid green when the RAD detects that the pair of wires for receiv-
ing audio is functioning properly, regardless of the RAD model. Displays red if there is a prob-
lem.
8. Audio Tx LED: displays solid green if communication with the HAL has been established
and the HAL informs the RAD of the Tx Audio lock. Displays solid red if there is a problem
communicating with the RAD or if there is a problem with the Audio Tx pair of wires.
9. Light sensor: detects the amount of light in the room and dims or brightens all LEDs appro-
priately—primarily to prevent the LEDs from glowing in a darkened room like cat eyes on Hal-
loween. Note that you cannot turn these LEDs off manually. This is by design. We wanted to
avoid the possibility of someone erroneously thinking the RAD is defective (because the
power light is off) and attempting to replace it unnecessarily.
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