A series of audio over Cat 5 cable product by Radial, designed to eliminate the need for bulky and expensive multi-pair audio cable runs. They also allow the user to take advantage of pre-wired networks to connect from one room to another.
Catapult is a modular system that lets you drive four analogue audio channels over a single Cat 5 shielded cable. Where the Catapult differs from other sub-snakes is that each end features a heavy duty steel box which in their standard form do not include transformers. Versions with +4dB line level (TX4L/RX4L) or -30dB microphone level (TX4M/RX4M) transformer to eliminate hum can also be ordered - please ask our Sales team for more information.
To use the Catapult in the simplest form, connect the TX4 and the RX4 together using Cat 5 or Cat 6 cable. Note: In order to pass 48V phantom power to feed any condenser mics or active direct boxes, the cable must have a shield. If the transmitted signals are line level, the shield is not required due to the twisted pair configuration, however it will still be beneficial as shielded cables are less susceptible to noise. Radial suggest that as the twisted pairs are tightly wound together in a compact jacket, it’s a good idea to send similar level signals together over the same wire as this will reduce crosstalk from higher signal levels (such as +4dB line levels) polluting lower output signals (such as -30dB mic levels). Cat 5 in and thru connections are by way of RJ45, and an associated ground lift switch lifts the Cat 5 cable ground path to aid noise reduction.
Module inputs and outputs employ 3-pin XLR connections that are wired to the AES standard with pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+) and pin-3 (-). For added connectivity, the modules are equipped with two sets of XLR connections that enable greater routing options. A metal handle is mounted on one end of the device to enable easier transportation.
Catapult TX4 and Catapult RX4 are compatible with Catapult Mini TX and Catapult Mini RX and can be used in a mix-and-match fashion.
Frequency response: 7Hz - 20kHz. Total harmonic distortion: 0.0005%, 1kHz. Dynamic range: 140dB. Gain: 0dB/-0.8dB. Maximum input: +35dBu. Minimum load impedance: 100ohms. Common mode rejection: Greater than 103dB. Dimensions (LxWxH): 204 x 114 x 51mm. Weight: 1.18kg.
Catapult RX4 has the same features and specifications as Catapult TX4, however as the receiving device, the output XLR connectors are of the 3-pin male type.
CATAPULT MINI TX Compact transmitter
Catapult Mini TX, like Catapult TX4 has been designed to convey analogue audio over Cat 5 cable, however it is a more compact design with fewer features. The main 16-gauge steel housing features a single RJ45 connector for the Cat 5 cable connection, and a 4-channel multi-stem loom with 3-pin female XLR connectors to connect to the audio input device such as microphone or line level device. The cables are coated in 'Expando' mesh sheathing for durability, and the connectors have colour coded labels for easy identification.
Catapult TX4 and Catapult RX4 are compatible with Catapult Mini TX and Catapult Mini RX and can be used in a mix-and-match fashion.
Frequency response: 7Hz - 20kHz. Total harmonic distortion: 0.0005%, 1kHz. Dynamic range: 140dB. Maximum input: +35dBu. Common mode rejection: Greater than 103dB. Dimensions (LxWxH): 105 x 40 x 33mm. Weight: 0.5kg.
Catapult Mini RX has the same features and specifications as Catapult Mini TX, however as the receiving device, the XLR connectors are of the 3-pin male type.