Radial Catapult MINI TX Cat 5 Audio Snake User Manual

Introduction

The Radial Catapult MINI TX is a compact and robust 4-channel analog audio snake transmitter designed to send balanced audio signals over a standard Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable. This device, when paired with a Catapult MINI RX unit (sold separately), provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for transmitting multiple audio channels over long distances, utilizing existing network infrastructure or dedicated Cat cable runs. Its passive design ensures high-fidelity audio transmission without the need for power.

Figure 1: Radial Catapult MINI TX unit, angled view, highlighting its compact design and branding.

Key Features

• 4-Channel Audio Transmission: Supports four balanced analog audio signals.
• Cat 5/6 Connectivity: Utilizes standard Ethernet cables for signal transmission, offering flexibility and cost savings.
• Passive Operation: Requires no external power, simplifying setup and increasing reliability.
• Compact and Durable Design: Housed in a rugged steel enclosure, suitable for professional use.
• XLR and RJ45 Connectors: Standardized connectors for easy integration into existing audio systems.

Setup Instructions

Setting up the Catapult MINI TX is straightforward. Ensure you have a Catapult MINI RX unit and a shielded Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable of appropriate length for your application.

1. Identify Components: Locate the Catapult MINI TX (transmitter) and Catapult MINI RX (receiver) units. The TX unit typically has female XLR inputs, and the RX unit has male XLR outputs.
2. Connect Audio Sources to TX: Connect your balanced audio sources (e.g., microphones, preamps, mixing console outputs) to the four female XLR inputs on the Catapult MINI TX unit. Each input corresponds to a specific channel.


Figure 2: Catapult MINI TX with four XLR cables connected, illustrating the input setup.

3. Connect Ethernet Cable: Connect one end of a shielded Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable to the RJ45 connector on the Catapult MINI TX unit.

Figure 3: End view of the Catapult MINI TX, highlighting the RJ45 and XLR connector ports.
4. Connect RX Unit: Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the RJ45 connector on the Catapult MINI RX unit.
5. Connect Audio Destinations from RX: Connect the male XLR outputs of the Catapult MINI RX unit to your audio destinations (e.g., mixing console inputs, audio interface inputs, powered speakers).
6. Verify Connections: Double-check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and correctly routed.

Operating Instructions

Once the Catapult MINI TX and RX units are connected, operation is automatic due to their passive design. No power or configuration is required.

• Signal Flow: Audio signals from your sources connected to the TX unit's XLR inputs will be transmitted over the Cat 5/6 cable to the RX unit, and then output via its XLR connectors.
• Channel Mapping: Each XLR input on the TX unit corresponds directly to an XLR output on the RX unit. Ensure your audio sources and destinations are connected to the correct channels.
• Cable Length: While Cat 5/6 cables can transmit signals over significant distances, extremely long runs (e.g., hundreds of feet) may introduce slight signal degradation. Test your setup with the intended cable length to ensure optimal performance.
• Shielded Cable Requirement: Always use shielded Cat 5 or Cat 6 cable for reliable and noise-free operation. Unshielded cables may introduce interference.

Maintenance

The Radial Catapult MINI TX is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the unit in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, when not in use.
• Cable Inspection: Periodically inspect your Cat 5/6 and XLR cables for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Replace damaged cables immediately.
• Connector Care: Keep the XLR and RJ45 connectors free of dust and debris.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Catapult MINI TX, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Radial Engineering products are built to high standards and are backed by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Radial Engineering website or contact their customer support directly. For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please visit the Radial Engineering support page or contact their authorized service centers.

Official Website: www.radialeng.com