COMMUNICATION AND AUDIO CABLES FOR EVENT & MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

1. What is an analog signal in audio cables?

An analog signal is a physically measurable quantity (such as voltage) that varies in frequency and amplitude to transmit information. Analog cables are used to carry analog signals within the low-frequency range. They are commonly used in audio applications to connect musical instruments, microphones, speakers, and other audio equipment.

2. What is digital signal in audio cables?

A digital signal contains multiple informational parameters, such as 8, 16, 32, or 64 bits. In serial signals, these bits are transmitted sequentially in chronological order, while in parallel signals, they are transmitted simultaneously. Data is encoded in binary format (1/0) to represent information such as numbers, characters, or forms of analog signals (sound, images, video, measurement values, etc.) after being sampled and quantized.

In multimedia communication technology, digital signals following standards such as AES/EBU, S/PDIF, and DMX are transmitted through digital cables. These cables are used to connect devices such as lighting scanners, lighting control consoles, studio equipment, and high-fidelity (HiFi) audio components.

3. What is AES/EBU standard?

The informal name of a digital audio standard created jointly by the AES (Audio Engineering Society) and the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) organisations. The standard defines the transmission characteristics of digital signals to simplify communication between devices. The connection cable serves to transmit digital stereo and mono audio signals. Primarily for professional recording studios For coaxial cables, BNC connectors are used, and for symmetrical cables, XLR plugs are used.

4. What is DMX? What are DMX cables?

DMX stands for Digital Multiplex. In lighting technology, DMX cables are used to control dimming systems, spotlights, and lighting effects processors.

5. What is HD-SDI standard?

The HD Serial Digital Interface (HD-SDI) is a communication standard defined in SMPTE 292M. Although commonly referred to as the 1.5 Gbit/s interface, the actual data rates supported by HD-SDI are 1.485 Gbit/s and 1.485/1.001 Gbit/s.

HD-SDI is used to transmit uncompressed video signals for HD resolution, digital intermediate, and digital cinema in studio and production environments. All HD-SDI connections are capable of transmitting video, audio, and metadata.

6. What are jacks?

Jack is a type of connector used to transmit low-voltage signals, commonly found in audio applications—for example, connecting electronic musical instruments such as electric guitars. There are two popular types of jacks: 2-pin (TS = tip, sleeve) and 3-pin (TRS = tip, ring, sleeve). Standard sizes include 6.35 mm (large jack) and 3.5 mm (mini jack).

7. What is balanced transmission?

Balanced transmission is a method of sending signals efficiently over long distances with high resistance to electromagnetic interference. Instead of using a single conductor, it uses a pair of conductors with identical electrical characteristics. The actual signal is transmitted through one conductor, while the other carries an inverted reference signal—already known to the receiving device. Any electromagnetic interference induced during transmission is canceled out at the receiver. Balanced cables are commonly used with XLR connectors in professional audio systems.

8. What is unbalanced transmission (Asymmetrical)?

In unbalanced transmission, the conductors have different electrical properties. The signal is transmitted through a single conductor, while the other (usually a braided shield or outer jacket) serves as the ground or shield. When electromagnetic interference occurs, it affects each conductor differently, which can result in a distorted signal at the receiver. Unbalanced transmission is typically used in semi-professional audio systems, often with RCA or jack connectors.

9. What are PowerCON connectors?

PowerCON is a power connector developed by Neutrik, designed to supply single-phase AC power to devices with currents up to 20A. It is mainly used in stage and live performance engineering. The contact pins for live, neutral, and earth conductors are protected against accidental contact and feature a locking mechanism to prevent unintentional disconnection.

10. What are SpeakON connectors?

SpeakON is a connector developed by Neutrik that has become a near-standard for transmitting high-power loudspeaker signals. Compared to older connectors like XLR or jack plugs, SpeakON provides larger contact areas, enabling stable and safer transmission of high current. The touch-proof contacts enhance safety during use. SpeakON is available in 2-pin, 4-pin, and 8-pin versions to accommodate various audio system configurations.

11. What are XLR connectors?

XLR connectors are widely used in stage and professional lighting systems for transmitting DMX control signals. They are also commonly used in professional studio audio systems for connecting microphones and loudspeaker cables.

12. What are EtherCON connectors?

EtherCON is a rugged, lockable Ethernet connector developed by Neutrik, specifically designed for networking applications in professional audio and stage lighting systems—such as Audio-over-Ethernet, Audio-over-IP, or data transmission to large LED displays. Its design is reinforced based on the XLR connector format, providing enhanced durability and mechanical strength in demanding environments.

13. What is Attenuation?

Attenuation refers to the reduction in signal strength between two cross-sectional points along a cable. The level of attenuation depends on the signal's wavelength. The main causes of attenuation include diffusion and absorption. It is measured in decibels (dB) and calculated using the formula:
10log P(L1)/P(L2) — where P(L1) and P(L2) are the signal power levels at two different measurement points.

14. What is conductor resistance?

Conductor resistance depends on the quality of the copper used and the diameter of the conductor. This resistance increases linearly with the length of the cable and is a key factor contributing to signal attenuation.

15. What is impedance?

Impedance is a characteristic of a two-port electrical network, consisting of ohmic resistance and reactance (which includes frequency-dependent inductance and capacitance). The impedance of a cable is determined by physical factors such as the size of the inner conductor, the dielectric material, and the shielding (braid or foil). Impedance plays a crucial role in maintaining stable signal transmission, especially in high-frequency and digital signal applications.