Audio
Imagine being able to listen to your favourite CD whilst in the bathroom. Or how about changing the track on the CD player in the living room by pointing your remote control at the ceiling speaker in the dining room? This and much more is possible with the Home Network Sciences audio system.
The system is available in two forms; single source and multi source, both allowing distribution of audio to multiple rooms from a central location. The single source hub allows a single source of audio (for example CD, mp3 player, DVD, SAT, etc.) to be distributed to up to 6 zones. The multi source audio hub allows up to 6 sources of audio to be distributed to up to 8 zones.
An audio source can be introduced at any RJ45 socket (data outlet) from around the property by using an audio COOLPORT (HC AUD COOLPORT). Dedicated input face plates may also be used in fixed locations. The volume and other controls can be operated in each room by the use of the integrated IR passing via speakers, keypads and or input face plates; this also allows equipment to be controlled remotely. All connections for the audio system are made using Category 5e cables.
When 1 to 6 zones are being used on a multi source hub a single power supply will suffice. However when 7 to 8 zones are in use two power supplies are required. The single source hub can be linked to additional single source hubs, increasing the single source of audio from 6 zones to 12! (Note: multi source audio hubs cannot be linked together.)
The infra-red is passed throughout the whole system thereby the user has full control, with or without the need for in-wall keypads. Integrated 5.1 surround sound options are available for either multi-source or single source audio hubs. Active in-ceiling speakers are widely used, however conventional speaker options are available.
The main system components are:
1) Chassis Mounted Hub Units (Single source or Multi source): The Single source unit is designed to offer a low cost entry level product which can be upgraded at a later date, as long as pre-cabling for additional zones is present. The audio source may be connected directly to the hub or indirectly over a structured cabling link by means of a COOLPORT adapter.
2) Active and Passive Speakers: The ceiling speakers are provided in pairs. The active unit is connected to the chassis hub using Category 5e cabling. An additional Category 5e cable is then used to connect the passive and active speaker to each other. Speakers may be supplied with an integral IR receiver in which case a keypad is usually optional.
3) Keypads: Wall control keypads are connected by Category 5e cables to the Active speaker to give local control without the use of IR hand sets. However keypads also feature IR, so remote handsets may also be used.
4) Local Input: Any RJ45 socket can be utilised and used as a local audio input to the system; this is done by means of a COOLPORT audio module. A Category 5e patch cord is used to supply the audio hub with an audio source in the same way that Category 5e patch cords are used to patch data outlets to the switch/router.
5) COOLPORT Audio Module: This adapter allows for conversion of the audio source for use over structured cabling. The COOLPORT presents two phono type input sockets (for the audio signal) and two 3.5mm jacks for IR control.
6) Power Supply Units: Two power supply units are available for the Audio System; a 45w unit and a 135w unit. The power supply units plug directly into the Audio Hub and in turn power the speakers. We recommend the 135w PSU for higher power or multiple zone installations.