PIP-BLU Module

The BSS & Crown® PIP-BLU is a PIP™ (Programmable Input Processor) input module for CTs 2 Channel Amplifiers (CTs 600,1200, 2000, 3000).^† It connects the amplifier to a 100 Mb Ethernet network allowing it to be remotely controlled and monitored using HiQnet™ London Architect as well as provide digital audio transport via BLU link.

The PIP-BLU offers 2 channels of audio via the Soundweb London digital audio bus informally known as BLU Link. This high bandwidth digital audio bus provides easy connectivity with fault tolerance. BLU link features a low latency, fault tolerant digital audio bus of 256 channels which uses standard Category 5e cabling giving a distance of 100m between compatible devices. The BSS Audio MC-1 fiber optic media converter can be used to increase the distance between devices to over 10km (6.2 miles) using single mode fiber.

The PIP-BLU allows for both BLU link and analog input and output. This allows for analog audio to be used as a backup as well as being distributed to additional amplifiers.

The audio path in the PIP-BLU is designed to match the standard Smart-Amp™ feature set available in the PIP-Lite module and MacroTech I Series amplifiers. These features include input compressors, multimode output limiters, error reporting and load monitoring. These features are designed to allow for protection of your speakers while the processing is done upstream.

The PIP-BLU is a HiQnet component. This means it connects to a HiQNet system via 100 Mb Ethernet. With HiQnet, a control system of any size can be interconnected using standard 100 Mb Ethernet components (Switches, Network Interface Card, and cables). The control portion of the PIP-BLU can also be connected to a CobraNet™ network to allow for easy network creation.^‡

The PIP-BLU requires London Architect Software available from http://bss.co.uk/index.php or http://hiqnet.harmanpro.com.

Notes:
^† The PIP-BLU module must be installed at the factory when the amplifier is ordered.
^‡ The PIP-BLU cannot receive or transmit CobraNet audio. Please use the PIP-USP4/CN if this function is desired.

Features

• Digital Audio Transport via BLU link
• A Programmable Input Processor with HiQnet Control
• Remote control and monitoring of CTs 2 channel amplifiers
• Ability to convert analog input to BLU link
• Five Year, No-Fault, Fully Transferable Warranty completely protects your investment and guarantees its specifications
• Analog line level output allows connection to additional amplifiers
• Implements SmartAmp™ features
  • Input compressors
  • Multimode output limiters
  • Error reporting
  • Real time load monitoring

Connectors

Balanced Audio Input & Output Connectors: 3-pin removable barrier-strip connectors, one per channel. 

BLU Link Connection: Two standard RJ-45 connectors allows the module to be part of a BLU link network ring.

Preset Indicator: Signals the number of the current preset, if active, by flashing a series of flashes equal to the current preset number.

Reset/Preset Switch: Used to change presets, restore settings to factory default or restore all the presets to the factory defaults. During operations of the switch, the Data indicator flashes as an aid to the user.

Data Indicator: Flashes when the PIP-BLU receives a valid command that is addressed to it.

Network Connector: The network connector is a standard RJ-45 connector that allows the module to connect to an Ethernet network. Connection is made using a standard CAT 5 cable to a network switch port. The Link Activity LED indicates that the module is connected to a network switch. The ACT LED indicates that the card is actively communicating to the Ethernet network.

General Specifications

Network: RJ-45 connector forming an IEEE 802.3 Ethernet NIC connection.

Balanced Audio Inputs and Outputs: 3-pin, 5mm removable barrier blocks

DATA indicator: Flashes when the PIP-BLU receives a valid command that is addressed to the PIP-BLU.

PRESET indicator: Flashes to indicate the selected and active user preset.

LINK ACT indicator: (integrated in the network connector) indicates a valid Ethernet
link when lit and the presence of Ethernet traffic when flashing.

Memory Backup: 4 Megabit nonvolatile FLASH memory for backup of run-time settings, presets, and program storage. Capable of 10,000 write cycles.

Power Requirements: No external power is required

Crown's Five-Year, No-Fault, Fully Transferable Warranty

Crown offers a Five-Year, No-Fault, Fully Transferable Warranty for the PIP-BLU installed in a CTs – an unsurpassed industry standard. With this unprecedented No-Fault protection, your new Crown component is warranted to meet or exceed original specifications for the first five years of ownership. During this time, if your unit fails, or does not perform to original specifications, it will be repaired or replaced at our expense. About the only things not covered by this warranty are those losses normally covered by insurance and those caused by intentional abuse. And the coverage is transferable, should you sell your unit. See your authorized Crown dealer for full warranty disclosure and details. For customers outside of the USA, please contact your authorized Crown distributor for warranty information or call 574-294-8200.