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Introduction to the RedNet TNX

Updated

Thank you for investing in the Focusrite RedNet system.

RedNet is a powerful, low-latency, digital audio networking system designed specifically for music, recording studio, live, and broadcast applications. RedNet is based on Audinate®’s Dante®, a well-established audio networking technology known for its extreme robustness. Dante – and the RedNet system – is capable of transporting up to 512 channels of bidirectional audio (at 48 kHz sample rate) over a single gigabit Ethernet link.

The Focusrite RedNet TNX provides the hardware interface between the host computer, via Thunderbolt™ connection, and the Ethernet network, interconnecting the various I/O units in a RedNet system.

The front and back of the RedNet TNX.

Key Features

  • Thunderbolt 3 interface with two 15W USB-C ports (daisy-chainable).

  • Compatible with standard network switches

  • 128 × 128 redundant channels at up to 192KHz

    • Optional upgrade to 256x256 audio channels (24bit/96kHz) with Dante Ready™ and Dante Activator

  • Seamless operation with other RedNet and Dante devices

  • Support for macOS and Windows

  • Supports AES67, Dante Domain Manager, and is SMPTE ST 2110 compliant (requires DDM license), which makes it perfect for broadcast deployment.

Box Contents

  • RedNet TNX

  • 2m Cat 6A Ethernet cable

  • Region-specific IEC (power) cable and DC power block.

  • 2m Thunderbolt cable

  • Safety information cut sheet

  • Focusrite Important Information Guide

  • Product Registration Card – instructions on the card provide links to:

    • RedNet Control

    • RedNet Thunderbolt drivers (included with RedNet Control download)

System Requirements

OS Version

The easiest way to check if your computer’s operating system (OS) is compatible with the RedNet TNX is to use our Help Centre’s compatibility articles:

focusritepro.zendesk.com/hc/categories/360000105489-Compatibility 

As new OS versions become available over time, you can continue to check for further compatibility information by searching our Help Centre at:

focusritepro.zendesk.com 

Network

The Audinate Dante protocol, on which RedNet is based, uses standard Ethernet technology for the network. Whilst Dante traffic can be mixed with other network data, we recommend for maximum performance, the RedNet audio network should be self-contained and should not also be used for other IT purposes.

RedNet is compatible with Cat 5e and above cabling; Cat 6 STP is preferred. Standard RJ45 connectors with metal screens should be used, with the cable screen bonded to the connector screen.

Important

This product Satisfies FCC regulations when high-quality shielded cables are used to connect with other equipment. Failure to use high-quality shielded cables or to follow the installation instructions within this manual, may cause magnetic interference with appliances such as radios and televisions and void your FCC authorisation to use this product in the USA.

Network Switches

  • Gigabit (1000 Mbps) capable – switches below this rating are not supported

  • Quality of Service (QoS) with 4 queues

  • Diffserv (DSCP) QoS, with strict priority

  • Should be of the ‘managed’ type to provide detailed information about the operation of each network link: port speed, error counters, bandwidth used, etc.

  • ‘Non-blocking’ to allow full bandwidth of all ports simultaneously

  • An internal mains power supply is recommended – the external “plug-top” PSUs supplied with some units can be prone to interference which could generate audible artefacts

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