Topologies

HelixNet Partyline can be deployed using a wide range of topologies, both complex and straightforward. The following table describes three standard types of topology:

 

Topology

Description

Daisy-chain

In a daisy-chain topology, the Main Station is connected to the first unit. The units are then connected in a series, using the pass-through connector on the back / rear of the device to pass on the connection. No termination is required. HXII-BP-X4 beltpacks require a passive Y splitter for daisy chaining.

Daisy-chains can be either linear or loop back to the Main Station to form a ring for redundancy.

Star

In a star topology, the Main Station is connected to a passive (Y) splitter such as an XLR Bulkhead or Mult-box. The units are then connected to the splitter point-to-point.

Tree

A tree topology is a more complex version of the star topology, using serially connected passive ( Y ) splitters. The units are connected to each splitter point-to-point (forming a branch of the tree).

 

Key to example system topologies (layouts) diagram

Feature

Description

HMS-4X Main Station (digital Main Station) (rear panel).

There are two lines (digital Partylines) on the Main Station, each of which can support up to 10 digital beltpacks. There are two connectors (3-pin XLR, male and female) for each line.

Daisy chained beltpacks. To create a ‘daisy chain’ of connected beltpacks:

Connect the first beltpack to the Main Station, using either of the 3-pin XLR connectors (female or male) on the base of the beltpack.

Pass on the connection to the second beltpack, using the remaining connector as the pass through.

Repeat for all beltpacks (up to 10) in the chain. No cable termination is required.

Note: For the HXII-BP-X4 beltpacks, you must use a passive Y splitter.

You can locally power a Remote Station or Speaker Station within a daisy chain. This prevents the normal draw off the powerline by the locally powered device.

The second layout uses an XLR Bulkhead and a Mult-box (passive (Y) splitters) to combine:

A daisy chain (with optional redundancy flyback).

Point-to-point connected beltpacks (using the Mult-box).

The XLR Bulkhead and splitters should be screened.

The complexity and variety of layouts does not restrict physical access to Channels.

Because HelixNet Partyline is a digital system, the HelixNet Stations can access any of the available Channels (plus a Program Feed), however they are connected to the Main Station, see diagram in Installing HelixNet Partyline.