Catalog Index > 968-S Series Programmable Audio Patchbays

E3 Rear Interface	E90 Rear Interface

Our 968-S Series of Programmable audio patchbays allow you to program switched grounds – in addition to bussed, isolated and looped grounds as with the original 968 series.



There are two primary technical benefits to using switched grounds in a patching system. First, switched grounds can help eliminate hard-to-find ground loops. Second, switched grounds are ideal for systems with audio signals coming from numerous locations, because it provides a more stable signal-grounding structure.



These technical benefits, plus the fact that it’s programmable, means the 968-S Series can serve as the foundation for virtually any new or reconfigured installation. Because it’s programmable, the 968-S allows the mixing of circuit types within the patchbay itself, allowing it to perform in virtually any type of new installation, as well as any legacy installations. This flexibility also means that regardless of any design changes that arise during installation, it can always be re-programmed as needed right on the spot.



The end result is that the 968-S allows integrators and installers to quickly re-configure the patching systems, accommodate customer change-orders, and speed service-calls. This flexibility also allows system designers to more confidently assemble equipment lists and more accurately develop quotes earlier in the proposal process.



In addition, the same features that make the 968-S so flexible during installation also give it a short production cycle during manufacturing. This means Bittree can offer extremely short turnaround on orders, sometimes shipping in as few as a day or two.



Available in a 2 x 48 Bantam format, the 1 RU configuration makes it ideal for mobile production and other applications in tight quarters.



One final benefit of the 968-S is its durability. Unlike the plastic-framed patchbays on the market, the 968-S Series, as with all Bittree patchbays, feature precision-stamped reinforced-steel jack frames, and front panels made of 3/16" solid aluminum. In addition, the programming is performed through durable shunts, rather than less reliable Sliding Dip or Rotary Switches.



The 968-S is as easy as it is adaptable. To program the Grounding and Normaling for individual circuits, users just need to change the arrangement of the shunts located under the patchbay dust cover. Red shunts are placed are used for Normaling options; white shunts are used for Grounding options. Click for 968-S programming instructions.



All Bittree audio patchbays bring you enhanced studio versatility and instant signal re-routing, and are perfect for master control and central switching I/O, audio console I/O, recording devices I/O, and audio routing switcher bypass and input rerouting. For additional flexibility they can accommodate either analog or digital signals.

Features Normals and Grounding for individual circuits can be easily changed by the end-user Programming shunts located underneath the patchbay dust cover; Red shunts are for Normaling and white shunts are for Grounding. Both are placed vertically. Normals can be programmed to full-normal, half-normal or non-normal; Grounding can be programmed to switched, bussed, isolated or looped Jacks rated to 30,000 minimum insertion cycles Copper-nickel-silver alloy leaf springs with gold-plated cross bar switching contacts and nickel-plated sleeve bushings Precision-stamped reinforced steel jack frame Gold-plated contacts used in E3 and E90 rear interface Wired with low-capacitance, AES/EBU-rated shielded, twisted pair Panels made from 3/16" solid aluminum with a durable powder-coat finish Convenient, small-sized designation strips Mating connectors, contacts and normals (where applicable) are included with all standard rear interfaces

Options Available in 1 rack unit (RU) Fully enclosed chassis available in 7" or 12" depth Wide range of rear interfaces available, including E3, E56, E90 and DB25 Normals can be pre-programmed to full-normal, half-normal or non-normal Grounding can be pre-programmed to switched, bussed, isolated or looped Black or gray front panel

Patchcords
		Audio Bantam (TT) Patchcords Colors  Black  Red  Yellow  Green  Blue  Purple Length  24" / 61 cm  36" / 92 cm  48" / 122 cm  60" / 153 cm  72" / 184 cm