Studio Technologies 5204 User manual

Copyright © 2015 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
www.studio-tech.com
50278-0815, Issue 2
User Guide
Issue 2, August 2015
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M5204-00151 and later with application firmware 1.3 and later
and Dante firmware 1.3 (Ultimo 2.2.2.5) and later
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante™ Interface

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Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Table of Contents
Revision History ............................................................ 4
Introduction ................................................................... 5
Getting Started ............................................................. 8
Connections .................................................................. 8
Dante Configuration ...................................................... 9
Operation ...................................................................... 10
Technical Notes ............................................................ 12
Specifications ............................................................... 15

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 4 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Revision History
Issue 2, August 2015:
1. Documents enhanced unit identification feature.
2. Adds improvements to IP address configuration assignment explanation.
Issue 1, August 2014:
1. Initial release.

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Introduction
The Model 5204 Interface is a general-
purpose audio device that supports ap-
plications utilizing the Dante™ Audio-over-
Ethernet media networking technology. Two
2-channel (“stereo”) analog line-level audio
signals can be connected to the Model
5204 and then converted to two channels
on an associated Dante connection.
Analog audio signals connect to line input
A by way of a 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5
mm jack. This allows the direct interfacing
of signals from a variety of sources such
as personal audio and multimedia players,
smartphones, and personal computers.
These signals typically have an average
(nominal) signal level in the range of –20 to
–10 dBu. Line input B supports connection
of balanced analog audio signals using two
XLR connectors. Average signal levels for
these types of signals are typically in the
range of 0 to +4 dBu. Each input has an
associated dual-channel rotary level control
to optimize its audio performance. Follow-
ing the level “pots” the signals from inputs
A and B are summed (combined or mixed
together) to create one 2-channel signal.
(The channel 1 signals of line inputs A and
B are summed to create output channel
1; channel 2 signals of line inputs A and B
are summed to create output channel 2.)
The two channels are then output by way of
the Dante interface. Multi-step LED meters
provide confirmation of the level of the two
output audio channels.
The audio quality of the Model 5204 is
excellent, with low distortion and noise and
high headroom. Careful circuit design and
excellent components ensure long, reliable
operation. A wide range of applications
can be supported, including TV, radio, and
streaming broadcast events, corporate and
government AV installations, and Dante
system testing.
For user convenience a dedicated charg-
ing port (DCP) is provided on a standard
USB type A connector. This allows power-
ing and charging of associated devices,
such as personal audio players and tablets.
The compact, lightweight design allows the
Model 5204 to be used in portable or desk-
top situations or deployed as a permanent
solution in fixed applications. Standard con-
nectors ensure fast, reliable deployment.
The unit requires only an Ethernet connec-
tion to supply both the data interface as
well as Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power.
The Model 5204’s audio, data, and dedi-
cated charging port use power provided by
the PoE connection.
Figure 1. Model 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface front and rear views

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Applications
The Model 5204 is perfect for use in conjunc-
tion with a variety of fixed and portable audio
equipment that offer analog output signals.
An obvious application is with legacy equip-
ment that only offers analog outputs. A few
simple connections are all that’s required to
covert those signals into the world of Audio-
over-Ethernet. When deploying, maintaining,
or modifying Dante networks the unit can
be a useful test tool, offering a simple, high-
quality means of creating a 2-channel signal
source. For permanent applications there’s
no reason why a Model 5204 can’t reside
within an equipment rack or be mounted,
using optional brackets, underneath a table
or on-air studio set. In a conference room
setting the unit can be permanently connect-
ed to a PoE-enabled Ethernet port, ready to
accept a signal source from various user-
provided devices.
Line Input A
Using a 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack,
it’s a simple matter to connect unbalanced
sources to the Model 5204’s line input A.
These signals would typically be provided
by personal computers, smartphones, or
personal audio devices which have average
(nominal) levels in the range of –20 to –10
dBu. One rotary control is used to adjust
the input level, making it a simple task to
optimize the conversion of the input analog
audio source to the Dante output. The level
knob is a push-in/push-out type which helps
prevent inadvertent adjustment.
Line Input B
The Model 5204’s line input B is designed for
use with professional line-level analog audio
signals. The 2-channel input is electronically
balanced, capacitor-coupled, and uses two
standard 3-pin female XLR connectors. A
single rotary level control allows the input
sensitivity of both channels to be adjusted.
Using the push-in/push-out knob it’s a
simple matter to adjust the input circuitry
to match average (nominal) signal levels
which would typically be in the range of
0 to +4 dBu. And with a maximum input
level of +24 dBu there will always be
sufficient headroom for “pro” audio perfor-
mance. Protection components in the input
circuitry help ensure reliability in tough field
applications.
Summing (Mixing) of the Input
Signals
The two channels associated with line input
A and the two channels associated with line
input B are mixed (summed), sent to ana-
log-to-digital conversion circuitry, and then
transmitted over the Dante network. The
two signals associated with the channel 1
(or “left”) inputs are combined and sent out
Dante channel 1. The two signals associat-
ed with the channel 2 (or “right”) inputs are
combined and sent out Dante channel 2.
(There is no provision for creating a monau-
ral signal which is typically not an issue as
other connected Dante-enabled equipment
can usually perform such tasks.)
Metering
Two 7-step LED meters provide a real-time
level indication of the two audio output
channels. Scaled in dBFS (decibels refer-
enced to full scale digital) the meters offer
a direct view of the signal levels as they
are transported in the digital domain via
Dante. Optimal audio performance requires
transporting signals at their proper levels
— without an accurate indication this can
be difficult to achieve.

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 5204 connects to a data net-
work using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-
pair Ethernet interface. The physical
interconnection is made by way of a
Neutrik® etherCON RJ45 connector.
While compatible with standard RJ45
plugs, etherCON allows a ruggedized and
locking interconnection for harsh or high-
reliability environments. An LED displays
the status of the network connection.
The Model 5204’s operating power is
provided by way of the Ethernet interface
using the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) stan-
dard. This allows fast and efficient intercon-
nection with the associated data network.
To support PoE power management, the
Model 5204’s PoE interface reports to the
power sourcing equipment (PSE) that it’s
a class 3 (mid power) device. An LED is
provided to indicate when power is being
supplied to the Model 5204. Note that no
provision has been made to allow an exter-
nal power source to be connected. Howev-
er, if the associated Ethernet switch does
not provide PoE capability a commonly-
available mid-span PoE power injector
can be utilized.
Dedicated Charging Port
(DCP)
A unique resource is the Model 5204’s
dedicated charging port. Using a standard
USB type A receptacle, the port has a
5 volt output with a maximum current of
approximately 1 amp. This nominally
5 watt output should be sufficient to rapidly
charge a personal audio player, smart-
phone, or tablet device. An auto-detect fea-
ture supports divider mode, short mode,
and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes. Besides
charging, the port can allow a connected
device to continuously send audio to the
associated Dante network without requiring
an external power source. Note that in this
situation interfacing a device with the Model
5204 requires separate cables, one for the
analog audio source and one for powering/
charging.
One note of interest: the dedicated charg-
ing port derives its power from the Ethernet
with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connec-
tion. While the Model 5204’s audio and
data circuitry takes very little energy, the
dedicated charging port can source up to
approximately 5 watts. As such, the Model
5204’s Ethernet interface will identify itself
to upstream power-sourcing-equipment
(PSE), typically an Ethernet switch with
integrated PoE, as a PoE class 3 powered
device (PD).
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent from the Model 5204
using the Dante Audio-over-Ethernet media
networking technology. As a Dante-com-
pliant device, the Model 5204’s two audio
channels can be assigned to other devices
using the Dante Controller software appli-
cation. Bit depths of up to 24 and sample
rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz are
supported. Two bi-color LEDs provide an
indication of the Dante connection status.
The Model 5204 uses Audinate’s Ultimo™
integrated circuit for implementing Dante.
The integrated circuit’s firmware can be
updated via the Ethernet connection, help-
ing to ensure that its capabilities remain up
to date.

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 8 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Getting Started
Included in the shipping carton are a
Model 5204 Interface and a printed copy
of this guide. As a device that is Power-
over-Ethernet (PoE) powered, no external
power source is provided. Should a PoE
midspan power injector be required it must
be purchased separately.
Mounting Options
There is no provision for directly mounting
one or more Model 5204 units in an equip-
ment rack. However, the overall height of
the unit was carefully selected so that it
could be placed without interference on a
single space (1U) rack shelf. The Model
5204’s enclosure width allows up to four
units to be placed side-by-side on a 1U
shelf that’s mounted in a standard 19-inch
equipment rack. Hook-and-loop (“Velcro”)
tape can be used to secure the Model 5204
units to the shelf. A set of mounting brack-
ets is available to allow a Model 5204 to be
attached to the underside of a desk, table,
broadcast set, or other flat surface. Contact
Studio Technologies for details.
Connections
In this section signal interconnections will
be made using the connectors located on
the front and back panel of the Model 5204.
An Ethernet data connection with Power-
over-Ethernet (PoE) capability will be made
using either a standard RJ45 patch cable
or an etherCON protected RJ45 plug. Line-
level signal sources will be connected using
the 3.5 mm jack associated with line input
A and the 3-pin XLR connectors associ-
ated with line input B. The USB dedicated
charging port can be connected to power or
charge an external device.
Ethernet Connection
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection that
supports Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is
required for Model 5204 operation. This
one connection will provide both the Ether-
net data interface and power for the Model
5204’s circuitry. A 10BASE-T connection is
not sufficient and a 1000BASE-T (“GigE”)
connection is not supported unless it can
automatically “fall back” to 100BASE-TX
operation. For PoE switch (PSE) power
management the Model 5204 will enumer-
ate itself as a PoE class 3 device.
The Ethernet connection is made by way
of a Neutrik etherCON protected RJ45 con-
nector that is located on the back panel of
the Model 5204. This allows connection by
way of a cable-mounted etherCON plug or
a standard RJ45 plug. The Model 5204’s
Ethernet interface supports auto MDI/MDI-X
so that most cabling implementations will be
correctly supported.
Line Input A
Line input A is intended for connection with
a 2-channel (stereo) unbalanced line-level
analog audio signal source. This will typical-
ly be associated with consumer and semi-
professional devices such as personal
audio players, AV equipment, and tablet
and personal computers. These signals will
typically have a nominal level in the range
of –15 to –10 dBu. Devices are connected
to line input A by way of a 3.5 mm 3-
conductor jack located on the Model 5204’s
front panel. As is standard for 2-channel
(stereo) audio signals present on this type
of connector channel 1 (left) is connected
to the jack’s tip lead, channel 2 (right) to
the jack’s ring lead, and the common con-
nection to the jack’s sleeve.

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Line Input B
Line input B is intended for connection with
two balanced line-level analog audio signal
sources associated with professional audio
and video equipment. These will include
devices such as audio consoles, video
storage and playback systems, wireless
microphone receivers, and audio testing
equipment. The audio quality is such that
using line input B for on-air broadcast or
streaming applications would be appropri-
ate. The two channels associated with line
input B are analog, electronically balanced,
and capacitor coupled.
The Model 5204 provides two 3-pin female
XLR connectors for interfacing signals with
line input B. Pin 2 on a mating connector
(3-pin male XLR) should be connected as
signal + (high), pin 3 as signal – (low), and
pin 1 as common/shield. With an unbal-
anced source connect signal + (high) to
the pin 2 and signal – (low/shield) to both
pins 1 and 3.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
A USB type A receptacle is located on the
back panel of the Model 5204. It allows
connection to a wide variety of devices that
obtain power for operation and/or charging
via USB. No data is transferred to or from
the Model 5204 with this connector, only
power is provided. The dedicated charg-
ing port (DCP) is capable of automatically
enumerating (“handshaking”) with a number
of the popular device protocols. This allows
operation with most mobile phones, tablet
computers, and personal audio devices.
Using the appropriate cable, simply connect
the dedicated charging port to the selected
device. Up to 5 watts of energy can be
delivered on a continuous basis. It’s pos-
sible that the device being powered and/or
charged is also serving as the source of
analog audio for line input A. In this case
two interface cables will be used to link the
device with the Model 5204.
Dante
Configuration
Several Model 5204’s Dante-related param-
eters can be configured. These configura-
tion settings will be stored in nonvolatile
memory within the Model 5204’s circuitry.
Configuration will typically be done with the
Dante Controller software application which
is available for download free of charge at
www.audinate.com. Versions of Dante Con-
troller are available to support Windows®
and OS X® operating systems. The Model
5204 uses the Ultimo 2-input/2-output inte-
grated circuit to implement the Dante archi-
tecture. However, only the two transmitter
(output) channels are utilized. This dictates
which parameters can be configured and
what choices are available.
The two transmitter channels associated
with the Model 5204’s Dante interface
must be assigned to the desired receiver
channels. Within Dante Controller a “sub-
scription” is the term used for routing a
transmitter flow (a group of output chan-
nels) to a receiver flow (a group of input
channels). Note that as of the writing of
this guide the number of transmitter flows
associated with an Ultimo integrated circuit
is limited to two.
The Model 5204 will support audio sample
rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz with a
limited selection of pull-up/pull-down values.
The Model 5204 can serve as the clock
master for a Dante network but in most
cases it will “sync” to another device.

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 10 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
The Model 5204 has a default Dante de-
vice name of ST-M5204 and a unique suf-
fix. The suffix identifies the specific Model
5204 that is being configured (it relates to
the MAC address of the Ultimo integrated
circuit). The two Dante transmitter chan-
nels have default names of Ch1 and Ch2.
Using Dante Controller the default device
and channel names can be revised as
appropriate for the specific application.
Operation
At this point an Ethernet connection with
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) capability
should have been made. The unit’s Dante
configuration settings should have been
selected using Dante Controller software
application. At a minimum the Model
5204’s two Dante transmitter channels
should have been routed to receiver
channels on an associated device. Analog
signal source connections to line input A
and line input B should have been made
as desired. A device may have been con-
nected to the USB dedicated charging
port. Normal operation of the Model 5204
can now begin.
Initial Operation
The Model 5204 will immediately begin to
function as soon as a Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) power source is connected. At this
time the USB dedicated charging port will
become functional. However, full operation
may take up to 20 seconds to begin. Upon
initial power up the four status LEDs locat-
ed on the back panel will begin to light. The
meter LEDs on the front panel will light in a
test sequence. After the meter LEDs com-
plete their test sequence one meter LED
associated with channel 1 and one meter
LED associated with channel 2 will briefly
light to indicate the version number of the
unit’s firmware (embedded software). (Un-
derstanding how to “read” the application
firmware number will be discussed in detail
later in this guide.) Once that sequence
has completed and the Dante connection
has been established full operation will
begin.
Ethernet, PoE, and Dante
Status LEDs
Four status LEDs are located below the
Ethernet connector on the Model 5204’s
back panel. The PoE LED will light green
to indicate that Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
associated with the connected Ethernet
signal is providing operating power for the
Model 5204. The LINK/ACT LED will light
green whenever an active connection to
a 100 Mb/s Ethernet network has been
established. It will flash in response to data
packet activity. The SYS and SYNC LEDs
display the operating status of the Dante
interface and associated network. The
SYS LED will light red upon Model 5204
power up to indicate that the Dante inter-
face is not ready. After a short interval it
will light green to indicate that it is ready to
pass data with another Dante device. The
SYNC LED will light red when the Model
5204 is not synchronized with a Dante
network. It will light solid green when the
Model 5204 is synchronized with a Dante
network and an external clock source
(timing reference) is being received. It will
slowly flash green when the Model 5204 is
part of a Dante network and is serving as
a clock master.

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
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Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
How to Identify a Specific
Model 5204
The Dante Controller software application
offers an identify command that can be
used to help locate a specific Model 5204.
When identify is selected for a specific unit
its meter LEDs will light in a unique pat-
tern. In addition, the SYS and SYNC LEDs,
located directly below the etherCON con-
nector on the back panel, will slowly flash
green. After a few seconds the LED iden-
tification patterns will cease and normal
Model 5204 level meter and Dante status
LED operation will again take place.
Level Meters
Two 7-step LED meters will display the
level of the two Dante transmitter (output)
channels. The meter steps are calibrated
in dBFS which indicates the number of
dB below the maximum possible digital
signal level. The maximum level, 0 dBFS,
is the digital audio reference level equal to
“full scale.” Full scale refers to the maxi-
mum level possible for a sine wave before
“digital clipping.” In typical applications
a signal level of –20 dBFS would be the
desired nominal (normal average) value.
The five meter steps that have a threshold
of –20 dBFS and less light with the color
green. The step that lights at –15 dBFS
and greater is yellow in color and indicates
a “hot” or above average signal level. The
top step lights red in color when a signal
levels is –5 dBFS or greater, indicating
that a potentially “clipped” (distorted due
to excessive level) signal is present.
Input A
The signal connected to the tip (left chan-
nel) connection of line input A’s 3.5 mm
jack is associated with Dante transmitter
(output) channel 1. The ring (right channel)
connection of the 3.5 mm jack is associ-
ated with Dante transmitter channel 2. The
push-in/push-out rotary control adjusts the
input level of both channels of line input
A. In its fully counterclockwise position the
input signal are essentially off (muted). Ad-
just the control such that normal input sig-
nals will cause the five green LEDs to light.
Peak signals can cause the yellow LED
to light on occasion. But the yellow LED
should never be continuously lit. The red
LED should never light, except possibly in
the case of an extreme peak. The red LED
lighting on a regular basis indicates that
the signal level is at risk of reaching digital
0 (0 dBFS) which is destructive to audio
quality.
Input B
The signal connected to line input B’s
channel 1 3-pin female XLR connec-
tor is associated with Dante transmitter
(output) channel 1. The signal connected
to line input B’s channel 2 XLR connec-
tor is associated with Dante transmitter
(output) channel 2. The push-in/push-out
rotary control adjusts the input level of both
channels of line input B. In its fully coun-
terclockwise position the input signals are
essentially off (muted). Adjust the control
such that normal input signals will cause
the five green LEDs to light. Peak signals
can cause the yellow LED to light on occa-
sion. But the yellow LED should never be
continuously lit. The red LED should never
light, except possibly in the case of an
extreme peak. The red LED lighting on a
regular basis indicates that the signal level
is at risk of reaching digital 0 (0 dBFS)
which is destructive to audio quality.

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
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Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Line Inputs A & B Combine
It’s important to highlight that the Model
5204’s two 2-channel line inputs (A and B)
combine in the analog domain. In effect
the Model 5204 is a dual-input 2-channel
(stereo) mixer and Dante converter. A sig-
nal present on channel 1 (left) of line input
A and a signal present on channel 1 of line
input B will combine (mix together or sum)
after (“post”) the two level controls. This
combined signal is routed to the analog-
to-digital converter circuitry and on to the
Dante transmitter (output) for channel 1.
A signal present on channel 2 (right) of line
input A and a signal present on channel 2
of line input B will combine (mix together
or sum) after (“post”) the two level controls.
This combined signal is routed to the ana-
log-to-digital converter circuitry and on to
the Dante transmitter (output) for channel
2. But note that no monaural version of the
input signals is created.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
There are no special instructions when
using the dedicated charging port. Simply
connect the desired device and the func-
tion will typically automatically start. The
only limitations will be with the port’s 5
volt, 1 ampere (5 watt) maximum power
supply capability. A connected device that
requires more energy for operation may
not enumerate (handshake or negotiate)
successfully. No damage will occur in this
case.
There are no LEDs or performance indica-
tors or configuration settings associated
with the dedicated charging port. It’s really
just a “plug-in and go” feature.
Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
By default the Model 5204’s Ethernet
interface will attempt to obtain an IP ad-
dress and associated settings using DHCP
(Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).
If a DHCP server is not detected an IP
address will be assigned using the link-
local protocol. This protocol is known in the
Microsoft® world as Automatic Private IP
Addressing (APIPA). It is also sometimes
referred to as auto-IP (PIPPA). Link-local
will assign an IP address in the IPv4 range
of 169.254.0.1 to 169.254.255.254. In this
way multiple Dante-enabled devices can
be connected together and automatically
function, whether or not a DHCP server
is active on the LAN. Even two Dante-en-
abled devices that are directly intercon-
nected using an RJ45 patch cord will
correctly acquire IP addresses and be able
to communicate and transport audio.
Using the Dante Controller software ap-
plication the Model 5204’s IP address and
related network parameters can be set for
a fixed (“static”) configuration. While this is
more involved than letting DHCP or link-
local “do their thing,” if fixed addressing is
necessary then that capability is available.
But in this case it’s highly recommended
that each unit be physically marked, e.g.,
directly using a permanent marker or
“console tape,” with its specific IP address.
If knowledge of a Model 5204’s IP address
has been misplaced there is no reset but-
ton or other method to restore the unit to a
default IP setting.
In the unfortunate event that a device’s IP
address is “lost,” the Address Resolution
Protocol (ARP) networking command can

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 13
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
be used to “probe” devices on a network
for this information. For example, in Win-
dows OS the arp –a command can be
used to display a list of LAN information
that includes MAC addresses and cor-
responding IP addresses. The simplest
means of identifying an unknown IP ad-
dress is to create a “mini” LAN with a per-
sonal computer connected directly to the
Model 5204. Then by using the appropriate
ARP command the required “clues” can be
obtained.
For best Dante audio-over-Ethernet per-
formance a network that supports VoIP
QoS capability is recommended. This can
typically be implemented on virtually all
contemporary managed Ethernet switches.
There are even specialized switches that
are optimized for entertainment-associated
applications. Refer to the Audinate website
(www.audinate.com) for details on optimiz-
ing networks for Dante applications.
Updating Main Application
Firmware
The Model 5204 uses a Freescale HCS-
08-series microcontroller (MCU) integrated
circuit to run its main application firmware
(embedded software). The firmware is
loaded into and stored in the MCU’s non-
volatile memory by way of a stand-alone
hardware programmer unit that interfaces
with a header connector located on the
unit’s motherboard. This firmware program-
ming is done at the factory at the time of
manufacture using a Cyclone Pro or Cy-
clone Universal stand-alone programmer
unit from P&E Micro (www.pemicro.com).
There is no provision for updates of the ap-
plication firmware to easily be performed
in the field. Unlike some of the other Studio
Technologies’ Dante-enabled products, the
Model 5204 does not have a USB inter-
face for firmware updating. This is because
of the Model 5204’s simple, well-defined
functionality and commensurate limited-
resource MCU.
It’s possible that updated versions of the
Model 5204’s application firmware will be
released. This could be due to software
bug fixes or feature improvements. It’s
expected that in most cases Model 5204
units will be returned to the factory should
this firmware need to be loaded. This
would be true unless a user, reseller, or
distributor has access to an appropriate
stand-alone programmer unit. For refer-
ence the Studio Technologies’ website
will make available the latest version of
the Model 5204’s application firmware file
along with a text description file. Contact
the factory for additional details.
Ultimo Firmware Update
As previously discussed in this guide, the
Model 5204 implements Dante connectivity
using the 2-input/2-output Ultimo integrat-
ed circuit from Audinate. The Dante Con-
troller software application can be used
to determine the version of the firmware
(embedded software) residing in the Ultimo
“chip.” This firmware can be updated by
way of the Model 5204’s Ethernet connec-
tion. The latest Dante firmware file is avail-
able on the Studio Technologies website.
The Dante Firmware Update Manager
application is used to install the firmware.
This program is also available for down-
load on the Studio Technologies website.

Issue 2, August 2015 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 14 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Identifying the Firmware
Version Number
As previously discussed in this guide,
upon power up the meter LEDs are used
to briefly display the version number of
the Model 5204’s firmware (embedded
software). This information is typically only
necessary when working with the fac-
tory on support issues. The meter LEDs
will first go through a display sequence
followed by an approximately 1-second
period where the version number will be
indicated. The top row of seven LEDs will
display the major version number with a
range of 1 to 7. The bottom row of seven
LEDs will display the minor version number
with a range of 1 to 7. Refer to Figure 2 for
details.
Figure 2. Detail of front panel showing the LEDs that display the firmware version.
In this example, the version shown is 1.3.
Major Version Number
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 O O O O O O
O O  O O O O
.1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7
Minor Version Number

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 2, August 2015
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 15
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
Specifications
Network Audio Technology:
Type: Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Bit Depth: up to 24
Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz
Number of Transmitter (Output) Channels: 2
Dante Audio Flows: 2 transmitter
Analog to Digital Equivalence: a +4 dBu input
with 0 dB gain selected results in a Dante digital
output level of –20 dBFS
Network Interface:
Type: twisted-pair Ethernet with Power-over-
Ethernet (PoE)
Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s Ethernet not
supported)
Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) per IEEE
802.3af class 3 (mid power, ≤12.95 watts)
General Audio Parameters:
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.5 dB,
line input B to Dante
Distortion (THD+N): 0.01%, measured at 1 kHz,
+4 dBu, line input B to Dante
Dynamic Range: >100 dB, A-weighted, line input
B to Dante
Line Input A:
Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) unbalanced, capacitor-
coupled
Input Impedance: 10 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level con-
trol, –3 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +10 dBu
Line Input B:
Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) electronically balanced,
capacitor-coupled
Input Impedance: 20 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level
control, +11 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +24 dBu
Meters: 2
Function: displays level of Dante output signals
Type: 7-segment LED, modified VU ballistics
Dedicated Charging Port:
Function: powering and charging of connected
devices; no data interface
Output (Nominal): 5 volts DC, 1 amp (5 watts)
Compatibility: auto-detect supports divider mode,
short mode, and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes
Connectors:
Ethernet: Neutrik etherCON RJ45
Line Input A: 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack
Line Input B: 2, 3-pin female XLR
Dedicated Charging Port: USB type A receptacle
Dimensions (Overall):
4.2 inches wide (10.7 cm)
1.7 inches high (4.3 cm)
5.1 inches deep (13.0 cm)
Mounting Option: bracket kit
Weight: 0.8 pounds (0.35 kg)
Specifications subject to change without notice.