Lance ADX-2400M Installation And Operation Manual - page 27
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Reliability Considerations
Since on-air audio is often handled by the ADX systems, reliability is of primary
concern. The ADX-series products are designed with highest-quality components
and conservative ratings so as to be as reliable as possible.
In addition, after manufacture, the ADX products undergo an extensive burn-in
process which includes power and thermal cycling to attempt to precipitate out any
early-life failures.
Even with these precautions failures are not impossible, and in addition there are
other components to the system such as Ethernet switches which must also be
considered in evaluating the overall reliability question.
Here are some thoughts on insuring a reliable on-air system:
Provide a spare announce box and headset. This practice has been going
on for decades with analog systems, and it's still a good idea. It protects
against failure of the ADX-120 and the headset.
Use the ADX-8000 Switch with redundant power supplies for both the switch
and the ADX-120s and ADX-140s. The ADX-8000 also supports fiber
trunking for redundant links.
Insure a reliable AC power source in the remote location for the ADX units
and for the Ethernet switch. If there is any question about the reliability of
the AC supply you might consider using a small UPS power supply to provide
battery backup. A small 500 watt unit intended for personal computer use
will provide a half-hour of typical operation in the event of power failure.
Use reliable Ethernet hardware such as switches, fiber GBICs, etc. Burn in
new switches for a few days before putting them on the air. Keep all
Ethernet cables and fiber in good condition.
Many switches have two or more fiber ports available. If the switches
support 'trunking' or 'port aggregation' and most do, two fiber runs could be
connected between switches, thus protecting against fiber and GBIC failure.
Consider using standard IT methods for providing a fault-tolerant network, if
practical and warranted. Redundant switches and parallel networks may be
used. ADX-120s and ADX-140s with version 5.0 or later firmware include a
sophisticated method of selecting the active ethernet connection based on
both link status and the presence of audio packets. Contact Lance Design
for more information.