TRUE OR FALSE- “XLR” stands for Cannon “X” series, with latch and rubber compounds on the female end.
- The DVI-D dual-link connector has twice as many contacts as a DVI-D single-link connector.
- In a fiber optic transmission system, the connectors can be a significant source of insertion loss.
- A Speakon and PowerCon connector are basically the same thing and can be used interchangeably.
ANSWERS
1. TRUE. Today, XLR has become a generic term, even though other manufacturers, such as Switchcraft and Neutrik, make a similar (and compatible) connector. The latch appears only on the female end, and no other company other than Cannon ever used the rubber compound.
2. FALSE. The DVI-D dual-link connector actually has only six more contacts (24 total) than the 18 contacts on the DVI-D single-link connector.
3. TRUE. In fact, connector-related insertion loss has been the greatest single drawback of fiber optic systems. It's easy to see why; any break, reflection, or misalignment means less light will pass through. Fortunately, fiber optic connector technology has rapidly advanced in the past several years so that connector loss can be minimized.
4. FALSE. While a Speakon and PowerCon connector do look very similar and are conceptually the same, they are keyed differently to prevent someone from running 120 VAC to a loudspeaker.
Sources: Neutrik, L-com, Force Inc.
CORRECTION
Page 80 of the June issue's New Products section showed an incorrect photo of the Rane MA 4 amplifier.