Halo connector range gives visual feedback for chassis data
At this week’s NAMM show in California, USA, Neutrik will launch the Halo chassis connector with a patented light ring.
The company has integrated light ring and an asymmetrical, non-metallic push tab into the design of its A series chassis connectors. Halo product variants include the NC3FAH2-LR-DAE and NC5FAH-LR-DAE female XLR connectors (pictured), the NC3MAH-LR and NC5MAH-LR male XLR connectors, and the NE8FAH-LR-DAE etherCON connector.
By placing one or two surface mount LEDs on circuit boards, the connectors can be lit to provide visual feedback such as input detection, transmission status, connection status, phantom power and operating mode indication.
Commenting on the Halo, Fred Morgenstern, vice president, Technology Neutrik Americas, said the new design brings many benefits, including visual feedback while eliminating the need for holes in the panel to accommodate LED light pipes.
According to the company, the Halo light ring delivers “an innovative, forward-looking alternative to light pipes”. They have a standard cut out, so no additional holes for light pipes are required in the device panel. The connecters provide improved visibility compared to light pipes, and different colours can be displayed on the left and right sides of the connector to add further information to the design element.
“The ESD-safe material ensures robust connections without having to worry about static electricity and they provide an easy upgrade path for products using existing connectors,” added Morgenstern. The asymmetrical, compound push tab minimises static discharge. The tab’s matt, non-reflective surface minimises light reflections to ensure clear visual feedback. The asymmetrical placement allows closer vertical spacing of rows of connectors, compared to standard designs where the tab is located at the top centre. The larger push area, compared to a standard push tab, means the Halo design is easier to use, said the company.
The Neutrik Group is headquartered in Schaan/Liechtenstein. It supplies professional entertainment and industrial connector products, including audio, video, fibre optic and Ethernet interconnect and digital network solutions. Neutrik manufactures a wide array of XLR connectors and receptacles, jacks and plugs, fibre optic connector systems and accessories for customers, ranging from rock bands to lighting design and industrial equipment to broadcast solutions.
The Neutrik Group consists of subsidiaries in the US, the UK, France, Japan, China, Hong Kong and Germany and a network of exclusive distributors in more than 80 countries worldwide to provide sales, technical support and distribution.
Visit Neutrik at the NAMM Show in the Anaheim Convention Center, Southern California, USA (stand 14502) from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 June.
