Networked Audio Connectors Demand Cat6a, Shielding, Gold Plating for Reliability
JINGYI Audio details the evolving requirements for professional audio connectors in networked audio environments, driven by the rapid growth of protocols like Dante, AES67, and AVB. The article emphasizes the necessity of selecting appropriate cabling (Cat6a), shielded RJ45 connectors, and gold-plated contacts to ensure signal integrity, reduce EMI, and manage PoE++ power delivery in broadcast and pro AV installations. This shift impacts design decisions for connector manufacturers and system architects, highlighting total cost of ownership over initial purchase price.
Key Takeaways
- JINGYI Audio states networked audio now accounts for 42% of new pro audio installations, up from 18% in 2019.
- Cat6a cabling is the minimum for AES67/ST2110 workflows, high channel counts (128+), or PoE++ (90W) applications.
- Shielded RJ45 connectors are crucial in electromagnetically noisy environments like broadcast studios or for PoE++ high-power delivery.
- Gold-plated contacts per IEC 60512-99-1 are specified for audio signal paths due to corrosion resistance and stable conductivity.
- Connector failures account for 8-12% of networked audio issues, with budget options having 3-5x higher failure rates.
Why It Matters
The rapid migration to networked audio over Ethernet fundamentally changes connector requirements in professional AVL. Relying on commodity IT-grade components introduces significant technical debt and increases total cost of ownership through intermittent failures and troubleshooting. As protocols like Dante and AES67 become ubiquitous, system integrators and designers must prioritize connector quality to avoid signal degradation, dropped packets, and ensure reliable power delivery for PoE-enabled devices. Moving forward, validate that all professional audio deployments specify Cat6a or higher, shielded connectors, and gold-plated contacts as standard to mitigate operational risks.
Read full article at jingyiaudio.com
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