Use STP (shielded twisted pair) CAT5e cables.  Those with both foil and braided screens provide shielding from interference and are generally more rugged.  Although solid core types can perform better at longer distances stranded core cables are less prone to damage when kinked or repeatedly coiled.  If you use a solid core type for touring check with the manufacturer that it is rated for the touring application.  For long distance cables and those that are repeatedly plugged we recommend you use the Neutrik EtherCon connector which has a shell that protects the connections and locks it in place when plugged into the mating EtherCon socket provided on iLive.  Protective dust caps are available for these connectors.

ACE (Audio and Control over Ethernet) is the most common Surface to MixRack or MixRack expansion link used when a point-to-point rather than networked connection is required.  It combines Ethernet control and bi-directional local audio I/O over a single cable.  It can run up to 120 meters (400 feet) but this does depend on cable type.  We do not guarantee all CAT5 cable types to work at the longer distances.  Use good quality cable and connectors throughout.  Even the short bridge cable needed with the ACE option card should be of professional standard as it is a critical link in the system.

The following CAT5 cable types have been tested and approved by Allen & Heath to meet the required EMC standards and connect ACE up to 120 meters:

MADI is an industry standard multi channel digital audio interface documented by the Audio Engineering Society as AES10.  The MADI option is available for iLive providing a convenient interface for recording and integration with third party systems.  The iLive MADI option supports 64 channels of serial digital audio transmission over 75 ohm coaxial cable.  Typically two cables are required, one for each direction of audio.  The MADI standard supports up to 50 meters (165 feet) but if audio is being transmitted from a third party device to an Allen & Heath MADI card with no audio being returned, or being transmitted both ways between two A&H cards, then the cable length may be extended.  An RME MADI card transmitting audio to an Allen & Heath MADI card can work up to 150 meters (500 feet).  Longer lengths may be achieved but this requires the use of a mains filter for each device if the link is to remain error free during high voltage mains interference.  Note that it is important that good quality BNC connectors are used and that they are correctly crimped to the cable.  For this reason it is best to buy ready made cables rather than attempt to make your own.  Note also that you should avoid kinking these cables or coiling them with tight loops as this may cause damage.

Allen & Heath have tested and recommend Belden 1505A 75 ohm coaxial cable for use with MADI.  Other cable that meets the specification of this cable may be used too.