Clear-Com Releases New HelixNet Partyline System Linking Capability at InfoComm 2013

	Clear-Com's HelixNet Partyline system

Clear-Com will launch the enhanced HelixNet Partyline intercom system at InfoComm 2013 in booth 921, running June 12-14 in Orlando, Florida. The new version will include a multi-system linking capability to deliver a cost-effective intercom solution for distributing many network digital partyline channels and program audio feeds to dozens of digital beltpacks. Enabling this capability are two new modules: the HLI-ET2 Ethernet module, for main station-to-main station networking over fiber or a LAN (Local Area Network), and the HLI-FBS Fiber module, for daisy-chaining fiber interfaces to link main stations over long distances.

The expanded functionality of HelixNet Partyline permits a more sophisticated and cost-effective digital partyline intercom network for large stadiums or multi-campus venues. In these applications, a high volume of intercom users in disparate locations are often required to stay connected over long distances. HelixNet Partyline's new system linking capability supports these complex workflows by granting access to many HBP-2X digital beltpacks through the connection of networked HMS-4X main stations over fiber or a LAN. Due to its unique design, the entire HelixNet network will only need a single, shield twisted-pair cable as its power source -- saving cost and resources for setup and configuration. Moreover, the new version of HelixNet easily integrates with other wireless or two-wire systems to create a complete intercom setup.

"Linking main stations gives HelixNet users the capability to share digital partyline channels plus program inputs in a network distributed system," says Simon Browne, Clear-Com's director of product management. "This means that any of the possible dozens of HelixNet Beltpack users can access any two of the available network partyline channels by simply selecting the desired channels on their beltpack. Since all these channels are running off a single, shielded twisted-pair cable, users no longer need to physically relocate multiple cables for new configurations, utilize expensive source-assign equipment, or rely on multiple power supply units."

One of the modules supporting the system linking function is the new HelixNet Partyline HLI-ET2 Ethernet module for main station-to-main station networking. Built to fit directly into one of the HMS-4X option module bays at the back of the main station, the HLI-ET2 Ethernet module can connect main stations directly through a LAN using standard IT switches.

A new HLI-FBS Fiber module is also available for linking main stations over long distances. The fiber module has two fiber ports using SFP modules for simple exchange of fiber transceivers. It also allows linking of other main stations in a fiber daisy-chain. The standard connection is single-mode, with multi-mode offered as an option.