Studio Technologies 5401A Manuale utente
50701-0421, Issue Preliminary 2
Copyright © 2021 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
studio-tech.com
User Guide
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M5401A-01001 and later with Main MCU firmware 1.02 and later
Model 5401A
Dante® Leader Clock
This page intentionally left blank.
Model 5401A User Guide Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Table of Contents
Revision History ........................................................... 4
Introduction ................................................................... 5
Installation .................................................................... 9
Dante Configuration .....................................................13
Model 5401A Configuration ..........................................15
Operation ......................................................................30
Technical Notes ............................................................41
Specifications ...............................................................46
Appendix A–Network Configuration Examples .............48
Appendix B–Sync Input Sources ..................................51
Appendix C–Dante Controller Network Default
Configuration Values ....................................................52
Appendix D–Menu Structure ........................................53
Appendix E–Screen Captures ......................................54
Appendix F–Model 5401A’s Default Configuration
Values ...........................................................................58
Appendix G–PTP v2 (IEEE-1588-2008)
Characteristics ..............................................................59
Appendix H–Accessing the Unit when the
User Name and/or Password is Not Known .................60
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021 Model 5401A User Guide
Page 4 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Revision History
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021:
• Minor corrections and clarifications.
Issue Preliminary 1, April 2021:
• Initial preliminary release.
Model 5401A User Guide Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Introduction
The Model 5401A Dante Leader Clock pro-
vides precise timing signals for applications
that utilize the Dante audio-over-IP media
networking technology. The unit implements
a high-performance IEEE® 1588 precision
time protocol (PTP) server, compatible with
the requirements of Dante and capable of
simultaneously supporting the timing needs
of up to hundreds of Dante-compatible
devices. As expected, the Model 5401A
provides the PTP v1 (IEEE 1588-2002)
compatibility that’s required by Dante. In
addition, the unit supports PTP v2 (IEEE
1588-2008) for AES67 applications. A word
clock output provides a general-purpose
timing reference for use by external devices.
The Model 5401A also generates eight
sine-wave audio tones on Dante transmitter
(output) channels which can be useful dur-
ing audio network installation, maintenance,
and operation. A sync input connection al-
lows the Model 5401A’s internal oscillator
to be synchronized with a variety of timing
and reference signals.
The Model 5401A is suitable for use in
fixed and mobile broadcast facilities, post-
production studios, commercial and educa-
tional theater environments, and entertain-
ment applications. Only power and one,
two, or three Ethernet network connections
are required for full operation. Using Dante’s
inherent capabilities two Model 5401A units
can serve in primary and secondary Leader
clock roles for redundant operation.
The unit’s three Gigabit Ethernet (GigE)
network interfaces can be configured for use
in a range of network implementations. For
high-performance applications two of the in-
terfaces can support Dante redundancy oper-
ation while the third is used for accessing the
management webpages. To meet the latest
interoperability standard the Model 5401A’s
Dante implementation supports AES67-2018.
The unit also supports the Dante Domain
Manager™ (DDM) software application.
An integrated web server allows fast and
flexible monitoring and configuration of the
unit’s networking, clocking, and Dante perfor-
mance. Front-panel LED indicators, an LCD
display, and pushbutton switches provide
users with direct access to key operating
parameters.
The Model 5401A can be powered by 100-
240 V, 50/60 Hz mains or a source of 12 volts
DC. Both can be simultaneously connected
to provide redundant operation. The light-
weight enclosure mounts in one space (1U)
of a standard 19-inch rack. Industry-standard
connectors are used for Ethernet, DC power,
and AC mains interconnections. Updating
the Model 5401A’s operating software can
be easily performed using a standard USB
flash drive.
Figure 1. Model 5401A Dante Leader Clock front and back views
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021 Model 5401A User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Applications
Applications for the Model 5401A include
broadcast and post-production facilities, col-
lege and university audio networks, arenas,
stadiums, and corporate installations —
virtually any application where substantial
numbers of Dante-compatible devices are
utilized. The Model 5401A will serve as a
stable and consistent Leader clock for the
entire Dante “network.” And, as expected,
the Model 5401A is compatible with all Dante
devices, no matter what their primary function
or manufacturer. Applications that utilize de-
vices compatible with AES67 will also benefit
from the Model 5401A’s resources.
Why a Dedicated Dante Leader
Clock?
With Dante ubiquitous in fixed and mobile
facilities of all sizes and types, the need
arose for a cost-effective, purpose-designed,
dedicated Leader clock. While an inherent
strength of Dante networking is its carefully
implemented use of IEEE 1588 to ensure that
all connected devices maintain a common
timing reference, the actual performance can
vary widely depending on the specific Dante
devices in use and the overall number of
devices on a network. There are many Dante-
compatible devices that can provide adequate
basic performance as a Leader clock, but with
the Model 5401A networked audio systems
get the benefits of a high-performance “Pri-
mary Leader” PTP server, along with addi-
tional unique capabilities. The unit’s feature
set, along with the associated internal hard-
ware and software, was designed to provide
optimum performance, flexibility, and system
integrity.
Timing Sources
The Model 5401A can provide excellent
Leader clock performance using its accurate
and stable internal oscillator, which is
temperature-stabilized and exceeds the
capability of standard Dante devices by at
least an order of magnitude. While its stand-
alone performance is excellent, the Model
5401A can also be “locked” to a variety of
external signals for integration into facili-
ties that include a central or main timing
reference. Compatible signals include word
clock, video reference, and 10 MHz.
Word clock is a square wave signal that is
often used as a timing reference in audio-
only facilities. Several word clock rates,
including 48 and 96 kHz, are compatible
with the Model 5401A’s sync input. Video
reference (“sync”) signals are found in most
broadcast and post-production facilities. The
Model 5401A supports the most-common
video format/rate combinations including
“black burst,” bi- and tri-level HD, and sever-
al that are specifically intended for 4K appli-
cations. Industrial and commercial facilities
often utilize a GPS-disciplined source of
10 MHz as a timing reference. This sine-
wave signal is typically compatible with the
Model 5401A’s sync input.
Word Clock Output
The Model 5401A generates a precise word
clock output signal that can be used as a
timing reference for related equipment. It’s
specifically intended for “locking” digital
audio devices in applications that use the
Model 5401A to provide timing reference
signals for the associated Dante equipment.
In this way, all devices in an installation will
share a common timing reference.
The word clock output rate can be selected
to be 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz. The un-
derlying timing source for the word clock
output is derived from the Model 5401A’s
main timing source. As previously reviewed,
the internal oscillator, if desired, can be
Model 5401A User Guide Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
“locked” to an external source. The main
timing source is divided and processed by
the Model 5401A’s logic circuitry to create
the highly stable word clock output. This
ensures that the word clock output is syn-
chronized with the unit’s PTP server func-
tionality.
Audio Reference Signals
The Model 5401A generates eight sine-
wave audio reference signals intended for
general-purpose use. They are individu-
ally configurable in level and frequency.
These audio “tones” are available from the
Model 5401A by way of Dante transmitter
(output) channels and can be connected,
using the Dante Controller application, to
Dante receiver (input) channels on related
equipment. The flexibility of being able to
interconnect signals (create Dante “sub-
scriptions”) between all Dante devices on a
network allows the audio reference tones to
be used for a variety of purposes. Configu-
ration choices allow the frequency and level
of each sine-wave signal to be optimized for
use in specific applications.
Leader Clock Support for
Dante Networks
A core part of the technology underlying
Dante audio-over-IP networking ensures
that all connected devices follow a common
timing reference. This is accomplished us-
ing the IEEE 1588-2002 precision time pro-
tocol (PTP v1). Any connected Dante device
can be used as a Leader clock; there is no
requirement that a dedicated Leader clock
device be utilized to realize adequate func-
tionality. However, the actual performance
can vary widely depending on the specific
Dante devices available and the overall
number of Dante devices on a network.
Many Dante devices utilize the 2- or
4-channel Ultimo™ ULT or UXT integrated
circuits to implement Dante connectivity.
While Ultimo devices will fully support Dante
audio transport, they are not well suited to
serve as a Leader clock. Ultimo’s PTP per-
formance is limited and does not have the
ability to synchronize with an external timing
reference. Other Dante devices may use the
Brooklyn II module or Broadway integrated
circuit to support Dante connectivity. In some
cases, these devices can provide good basic
performance as a Leader clock.
However, problems and limitations may arise
when these devices are called upon to per-
form “double duty,” serving in both a primary
function (such as analog-to-Dante interfacing
or audio signal processing) as well as acting
as a Leader clock. This is understandable
as the main purpose of these devices is to
serve functions other than acting as a prima-
ry synchronization reference. Timing related
features, such as allowing connection of a
video bi- or tri-level sync signal is rarely, if
ever, supported. And PTP performance can
degrade when the computing power of a
device is intended primarily for handling and
manipulating digital audio signals. This can
lead to the required PTP resources being in
short supply when the number of Dante de-
vices that need timing messages moves into
the hundreds. Also, firmware updates, ca-
bling changes, and other maintenance tasks
typically associated with a general-purpose
Dante device would impact the Leader clock
functionality for an entire installation.
The Model 5401A was specifically designed
to support a Dante-based audio system’s
Leader clock requirement. And the unit’s
generation of audio tones and implementa-
tion of the word clock output utilize hardware
that is separate from that associated with its
PTP functionality. As such, this secondary
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021 Model 5401A User Guide
Page 8 Studio Technologies, Inc.
functionality will not interfere with PTP opera-
tion. Unlike a general-purpose Dante device,
once mounted in an equipment rack and
the required interconnections are made, the
Model 5401A will perform its tasks without
risk of interruption due to conflicting resource
demands.
Flexible Networking Capability
Using the Dante Controller application
program, the Model 5401A’s three Eth-
ernet ports can be selected to operate in
one of four modes: Switched, Redundant,
Switched+Mgmt, and Redundant+Mgmt. This
should allow virtually any desired networking
implementation to be easily achieved.
In the Switched mode a single Ethernet
connection to either of the Model 5401A’s
two Dante Ethernet ports will provide Dante
Leader clock functionality. The remaining
Dante Ethernet port will provide Dante
network “loop-through” capability and can
be used to interface with another piece of
Ethernet-connected equipment. The manage-
ment Ethernet port will be used to access
the Model 5401A’s monitoring and configura-
tion webpages.
In the Redundant mode two independent
Ethernet connections are made to the Model
5401A’s two Dante Ethernet ports, enabling
Dante’s redundant networking capability.
Again, the management Ethernet port will be
used to access the Model 5401A’s monitoring
and configuration webpages. Using either
of these network modes allows separate
network connections to be maintained for
Dante audio and management purposes.
In the Switched+Mgmt mode a single Ether-
net connection is used for both Dante Leader
clock functionality as well as providing
access to the Model 5401A’s management
webpages. The remaining Dante Ethernet
port will provide network “loop-through”
capability and can be used to interface
with another piece of Ethernet-connected
equipment.
In the Redundant+Mgmt mode two indepen-
dent Ethernet connections can be made to
the Model 5401A’s two Dante Ethernet ports.
This will enable Leader clock capability for
applications that utilize Dante redundancy.
Access to the Model 5401A’s management
webpages will be made by way of the Eth-
ernet connection made to the Dante primary
Ethernet port.
Operating Power
The Model 5401A allows an AC mains
source of 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz to be directly
connected. It can also be DC powered using
a nominal 12 volt source that is connected
via a broadcast-standard 4-pin XLR con-
nector. If both AC and DC power sources
are connected the unit will be powered by
the AC mains supply. Only if the AC mains
source fails will appreciable power be drawn
from the DC source. This allows a source
of DC, typically an external power supply or
broadcast-style battery, to serve in a backup
capacity. With this arrangement normal op-
eration can continue even if AC mains power
is lost.
Future Capabilities
The Model 5401A was designed so that its
capabilities can be enhanced in the future.
A USB connector, located on the unit’s back
panel, allows the three firmware files (em-
bedded software) to be updated using a USB
flash drive. The Model 5401A’s Dante firm-
ware can be updated using one of the unit’s
Ethernet connections, helping to ensure that
the Dante capabilities remain up to date. All
software files and configuration parameters
are stored in non-volatile memory.
Model 5401A User Guide Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
Installation
In this section, the Model 5401A will be
mounted in one space (1U) of an equipment
rack. One or more Ethernet data connections
will be made. An external source of synchro-
nization may be connected. A connection
may be made to the word clock output. AC
mains and/or DC power will be connected to
the Model 5401A.
Up to three Ethernet data connections will
be made to the Model 5401A using standard
RJ45 patch cables. Using a coaxial cable ter-
minated with a BNC plug, an external source
of synchronization may be connected to the
sync input. A word clock output is provided
on a BNC receptacle and may be utilized by
another piece of equipment.
AC mains power can be connected to the
Model 5401A by means of a detachable cord
that is compatible with the unit’s 3-pin IEC
320 C14 inlet connector. Some applications
may warrant connection to a source of nomi-
nal 12 volts DC which can be made by way
of a 4-pin XLR connector. The DC source
can be used to power the Model 5401A as
well as serving as a backup power source
should AC mains be disconnected.
What’s Included
The shipping carton contains a Model 5401A
Dante Leader Clock and instructions on how
to obtain an electronic copy of this guide.
Also included in the shipping carton is a
North-American-standard AC mains cord.
For destinations outside of North America
the local reseller or distributor should provide
an appropriate AC mains cord.
Mounting the Model 5401A
The Model 5401A Dante Leader Clock re-
quires one space (1U) in a standard 19-inch
(48.3 cm) equipment rack. Secure the unit
into the designated equipment rack using
two mounting screws per side. As the Model
5401A does not contain a fan or other
noise-producing source it can be located
within a room or other structure where audio
monitoring is going to take place. Select a
location that is convenient for making con-
nections to the Ethernet interfaces, sync
input, word clock output, and AC mains and/
or DC power. Twisted-pair (UTC) Ethernet
has a 100-meter (325-foot) interconnection
cable limitation. But that can be overcome
by using a fiber-optic interconnection be-
tween the Model 5401A and the Ethernet
switch or switches in the one or more asso-
ciated local-area-networks (LANs).
Ethernet Connections
The Model 5401A provides three Giga-
bit Ethernet (GigE) ports for flexibility and
compatibility with many networking imple-
mentations. Two ports are provided for
interconnections with one or two local area
networks (LAN) associated with Dante au-
dio-over-IP networking schemes. They are
labeled as PRI (primary) and SEC (second-
ary). The third Ethernet port, labeled MGMT,
can be used to access the Model 5401A
management resources. An internal web-
server function supports the Model 5401A’s
management port’s webpages. These
webpages are used for configuration, moni-
toring, and maintenance of Model 5401A
operation. Refer to Figure 2 for an overview
of the Model 5401A’s three Ethernet ports
and how they can operate.
Using the Dante Controller application,
the three Ethernet ports can be config-
ured to operate in one of four modes:
Issue Preliminary 2, April 2021 Model 5401A User Guide
Page 10 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Switched, Redundant, Switched+Mgmt, or
Redundant+Mgmt. If configured for either
the Switched or Redundant modes the
management webpages are accessed by
way of the management Ethernet port.
When configured for the Switched+Mgmt
mode the management webpages are
accessed by way of either the primary or
secondary Ethernet port. When configured
for the Redundant+Mgmt mode the man-
agement webpages are accessed using an
Ethernet connection made to the primary
Ethernet port.
By providing three Ethernet ports and four
configuration modes, the Model 5401A al-
lows support for virtually all facilities, includ-
ing those that utilize separate networks for
Dante audio transport and equipment man-
agement. In this way, “production” networks
that support transport of audio signals by
way of a single LAN (Switched mode) or two
LANs (Redundant mode) can be separate
from an engineering network that is used
by technical personnel for configuring and
maintaining a facility or “plant.”
Connections to the three Ethernet inter-
faces are made by way of standard RJ45
receptacles that are located on the back
of the Model 5401A’s enclosure. The Eth-
ernet interfaces support auto MDI/MDI-X
so that crossover cables are not required.
Refer to Appendix A, located at the back of
this guide, for examples of how the Model
5401A’s three Ethernet interfaces might be
utilized. It’s difficult to conceive of a network
environment that the unit wouldn’t be able
to effectively support.
Dante Port Connections
At least one 1000BASE-T (GigE) Ethernet
connection is required for Model 5401A
Dante operation. It should be connected
to the primary RJ45 receptacle. A second
1000BASE-T connection can be made to
the secondary RJ45 receptacle if Dante
redundancy is desired. For this functional-
ity to be active the Model 5401A’s network
configuration must be set for the Redundant
or Redundant+Mgmt mode within the Dante
Controller software application. While tech-
nically 100BASE-TX Ethernet can also be
used for these Dante connections, it is not
optimal. Additionally, it’s important to note
that 10BASE-T Ethernet connections are
not sufficient.
When configured in Dante Controller for
the Switched or Switched+Mgmt modes the
Model 5401A’s Dante secondary Ethernet
connection can also be used as a “loop
through” port such as would be provided by
an Ethernet switch. Switched mode is the
default setting but using the Dante second-
ary port in this manner for applications other
than troubleshooting or “looping” to access
the Model 5401A’s management port is not
recommended. It will function reliably but
“daisy chaining” Ethernet signals can limit
flexibility and present a failure point; it’s
Dante Controller Network Model 5401A Ethernet Port
Switch Configuration Pri Sec Mgmt
Switched Dante Management
Redundant Dante Primary Dante Secondary Management
Switched+Mgmt Dante and Management Disabled
Redundant+Mgmt Dante Primary and Management Dante Secondary Disabled
Figure 2. Model 5401A Ethernet Port Configuration and Operation
Altri manuali per 5401A
2
Indice
Altri manuali Studio Technologies Orologio
