CAMCO (www.camcoaudio.com) has debuted EtherCai, a software and hardware solution to amplifer networking and remote control that can run from any PC with Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP using an Ethernet Network-Card.
WinCai software communicates with the new EtherCai-Server, with each supporting connections for up to 32 amplifiers. The current version of WinCai can support up to 100 EtherCai-Servers.
Connection to the amplifiers is made via the proven CAI protocol and hardware over the RS-485 bus, which works reliably for distances up to 1,300 meters. This type of daisy-chain network is easy to wire and can make use of existing microphone or multicore cables. The system is fully compatible with all CAI-equipped amplifiers on the market.
In a typical application, EtherCai can be connected via a short cable to a notebook computer at FOH. The RS-485 port is connected via multicore to all the amps onstage using bus wiring.
The current version of WinCai has been optimized for use with EtherCai, but the software is being redesigned.
For more sound reinforcement products, visit mixonline.com/live_sound_products/index.htm.
