Terminal blocks for Partyline Installation

Owned by ernie addow
Last updated: May 23, 2020 by KARI EYTHORSSON
2 min read

Question: I am in need of recommendations to build wiring terminals for my partyline installation.

Solution: There are many possible solutions and we would suggest using what the person wiring is comfortable and experienced in using in accordance with what is appropriate for the cable (stranded, solid) and terminal block used.

Terminal blocks can pave the way for a neat installation where the different cable runs are combined.  They allow cables to be easily connected to each other and for parallel connections to provide the same channel to different destinations / connection points and make them nicely visible.  Terminal blocks are often modular and mounted in multiples on a rail which may be in the back of an equipment rack or in a junction box.

Differences when using Terminal Blocks with Analog and Digital systems

Analog Partyline systems have used Terminal blocks extensively through the years.  It is good to keep in mind that analog partyline is effectively unbalanced audio and should be kept away from sources of noise and EMI. Placing those terminal blocks in a grounded metal enclosure may not be necessary yet is always a good idea to protect the unbalanced analog from external interference and reduce sensitivity for spurious noises.

HelixNet’s Digital Powerlines follow some of the same principles of the Analog Partyline systems where their cables can be passively split on Terminal blocks yet need different considerations.  Digital Powerlines transport multiple channels of intercom while Analog Partylines transport 1 or 2 channels per cable.  This is achieved by modulating Ethernet over 100kHz-25MHz on a bus which can be shared by multiple intercom stations.  Due to the high frequency signals the transmission relies on the cable shields to keep the signal in the cable AND away from other Digital Powerlines which uses the same 100kHz-25MHz spectrum.  If terminal blocks are used for Digital Powerlines it is important that they be housed in individually grounded metal enclosure per Digital Powerlines. Keep in mind that each HMS contains 2 separate Powerlines which need to be shielded from each other. Failure to respect the isolation between Digital Powerlines will lead to digital crosstalk resulting in lackluster audio quality and connection reliability.

 

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