Riedel Communications has introduced punQtum, an affordable, easy-to-use and powerful, network-based digital partyline intercom with the advantages of modern IP networks.
We Need to Talk…
Easy to install and set up, punQtum Q series works over a standard network infrastructure. Out of the box, the system operates in a “Plug and Play” factory default config but can be quickly customized using the intuitive “Q-Tool” software.
Unlike a centralized master station system, punQtum is completely decentralized with all processing handled locally on each device. The system supports up to 32 partyline intercom channels along with four program inputs, four public announce outputs, two configurable “Talk to Many” channels, and 32 general-purpose control points (GPI/O).
Multiple punQtum partyline systems can exist on the same network infrastructure, allowing the creation of production “islands” within a facility over the same IT network. For example, in a performing arts center with a main auditorium and black box theater, each can have a dedicated punQtum system running over the same network infrastructure. The number of available devices (beltpacks and Speaker Stations) is limited only by the network capacity.
punQtum can also operate on networks running other audio network streaming technologies (Dante, Ravenna, AVB), provided the network infrastructure supports IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) and is correctly set up and configured.
To simplify management of larger systems, punQtum uses a “Roles and I/O Settings” methodology. A Role is a template for a device’s channel configuration while I/O defines settings for equipment connected to a device, such as headsets. Each device can be configured to any Role and I/O setting available.
A Lot to Talk About…
The rugged Q110 punQtum beltpack supports two simultaneous communication channels. Each channel has dedicated call and talk buttons along with individual channel volume controls. Pressing the device’s “P” button accesses additional beltpack features including: kill all open mics; talk to all channels; and two “paging” outputs that can be used to send comms audio to external sound systems. A menu button opens the settings screen for the beltpack and a “back” button returns the user to the main screen.
The beltpack’s bright TFT color screen displays channel names (these can be renamed with the Q-Tool software) and other information. Three brightness settings adjust the display to a wide range of ambient conditions including bright daylight. A row of blue/gray dots above each channel name indicates volume level. The number of channel users and the “talk” button configuration are also displayed. A “network” symbol lights up when the connection is active and glows red while the beltpack is connecting to the network. A small number alongside the network symbol indicates total connected stations, while a “chain-link” symbol illuminates on daisy-chained stations.
A dark “screen saver” function can be activated to blank the display after a certain time. Finally, the screen orientation can be flipped, a nice touch as I often clip a beltpack to the edge of my console table and not having the display upside down was nice. The beltpack’s “volume menu” button lets users adjust Master, Program, Signal tone (buzzer) and side tone levels. These and other parameters can be saved/recalled as “personal settings.”
Pressing a call button illuminates the display for the channel being called and sounds a signal tone in the headsets. The signal tone level is adjustable at each beltpack and can be muted. If a call is unanswered, holding the call button illuminates the entire channel’s display and a more obnoxious tone sounds to get the user’s attention.
A quick press of the talk button latches the beltpack in talk mode, another quick press releases it. In Latch mode, a gate with adjustable threshold and release can be set to minimize pickup of unwanted background noise. Continuously holding the talk button operates a traditional Push-to-Talk mode, without having to preconfigure the beltpack. This mode can be changed to traditional Latch or PTT only through the Q-tool software.
Each beltpack can monitor one of four selectable program audio inputs. (Note: To use the page outputs and program inputs, at least one Q210P Speaker Station is required). When a beltpack has program active, a small PGM symbol illuminates.
The Q110 beltpack is constructed of high impact plastic and rubber. Operating controls and connectors are recessed for protection but are readily available. The IP53-rated beltpack is resistant to dust and splashing water. The headset output uses a standard 4-pin male XLR headset connector, and the I/O connections are actual Neutrik RJ-45 etherCONs. I prefer etherCON’s and flexible tactical Cat cables for their robustness, but for many applications where the beltpacks are not moving around a lot, standard RJ-45 cables work fine, just not as flexible.
The beltpack’s large, spring-loaded belt clip is replaceable without needed tools. A keyhole on the clip makes it easy to slip the beltpack over a screwhead and three small rubber feet on the clip help keep the beltpack from sliding around on a table, both nice touches.
Beltpacks operate using POE (Power over Ethernet), and up to eight can be daisy-chained (PoE 802.3 bt) — depending on the capabilities of the PoE switch. Alternatively, a beltpack can be powered independently using a PoE injector. The maximum distance between devices is 328 feet if you use high-quality Cat-5 cable.
The Speaker Station
The single-rackspace Q210 Speaker Station supports up to four independent partyline channels; each with independent call, talk and volume controls. Each pair of channels has the same set of controls and display screen as the beltpack, while the third display screen is used for configuration and customized options. Along with dedicated buttons for muting all speaker station channels and “all mic-kill,” four additional direct access buttons are available for custom functions such as public address, system silent and talk to all. I found the “all-mic-kill” function useful when users accidentally latch their mic when making a call. A front-panel 4-pin XLR connector accepts a standard headset, and a screw-in ¼” TRS connector accepts an accessory gooseneck mic. A front-panel button selects between the headset or mic. A 5-watt amp drives the built-in speaker. A dedicated volume control adjusts the overall speaker level, while pressing any channel volume control mutes the selected channel without affecting other levels.
The Q210 has four network switch ports for connecting Q110 beltpacks and other equipment. Two of the switch ports offer POE with the ability to power up to four Q110 beltpacks each. The Speaker Station also supplies connection points for two program channel audio inputs and two paging audio outputs.
Two DB-9 analog ports on the Speaker Station allow analog signals to be sent to TV cameras and other compatible equipment. Additionally, DB9 connection ports provide GPI/O connections, so the punQtum system can integrate with signal lights, relays and other outboard control equipment. The Q-Tool software configures and assigns these functions to buttons on the punQtum stations.
Additionally, punQtum offers several different lightweight headsets with dynamic microphone in single and dual ear configurations. Although the headsets sounded good and were comfortable to wear, I don’t know how well they would hold up in day-to-day abuse by users.
What Did You Just Say…
One big issue when using comms in hectic show environments is not understanding what was said because you weren’t paying attention, or it was hard to hear due to surrounding noise. punQtum takes a novel approach to missed calls with the replay feature. Every time a talk button is pressed, punQtum records the audio on all receiving devices. A beltpack can store up to six recorded messages (up to 30 seconds). A Speaker Station can store up to four recorded messages on each channel. Scroll through the messages and play them back using the “Replay” buttons and delete them using the “Back” button.
Can We Talk Now…
I received four beltpacks, headsets and a speaker station. Using a low-cost 5-port POE switch, I connected two beltpacks, plugged in headsets and powered up the switch. Immediately I was able to communicate without the need to set up a master station or configure the system. Adding another beltpack was a simple process of plugging it in. Next, I tried some long Cat-5 and Cat-6 cable runs. With Beltpack #1 connected to the switch with 50’ of Cat-6, I connected beltpack #2 to the switch with 100 meters (330’) of Cat-5e and then daisy-chained beltpack #3 with a 250’ of tactical Cat-5e cable. The beltpacks connected quickly and I had clear, clean communications.
Next, I set up the Speaker Station and connected program audio. I liked being able to adjust the levels and choose the program channel from each beltpack. I connected a P.A. out to a powered speaker. The paging audio sounded much better than expected, considering I was sending signal from a comms headset through 500’ of Cat-5e.
I work with a community theater (all volunteer) where most of the folks are not highly technical. I took the system out to the theater and let the “stage crew” have a go at setting up the punQtum. (They all loved the name…) Using just the included quick start guides for reference, they were up and communicating between the stage manager, FOH, lights and the spotlight operator in no time. They told me the punQtum was easier to use and sounded better than the theater’s old installed analog system. The stage manager enjoyed having separate comm channels for sound and lights, the ability to talk to everyone at once, plus the ability to mute the spot operator’s mic from his station.
The Final Word…
I have worked with large and small intercom systems and found the punQtum to be one of the easiest to use. Its setup simplicity, decentralized operation and Riedel audio quality set punQtum apart from other partyline intercoms. Plus, the ability to offer 32 available partyline channels over a single cable using a standard network infrastructure makes the punQtum system a solid working solution. As more venues are building in network infrastructures, punQtum is an ideal choice for community performing arts centers, universities, churches, sports venues and theaters looking for an easy to use, reliable, affordable and good-sounding digital communications platform. Whether you plug and play out of the box or use the Q-Tool software to customize a system to your specific needs, punQtum’s simple, comprehensive, crew communications is going to be the “Talk of the Town!”
Steve Savanyu operates Buford T. Hedgehog Productions in Hudson/Macedonia, OH.
punQtum Intercom
PROS
- Super easy to set up
- Excellent sound quality
- Multiple configurable partyline channels on a single cable
- Bright, easy to read displays
CONS
- Inherent cable length limits of POE
- Lightweight headsets might be a bit delicate
Street Prices
Q110 Beltpack, $599/each; Q210 Speaker Station, $1,995; Q910 Single-Ear Headset, $109
Manufacturer
Riedel Communications
More Info
www.punqtum.com, www.riedel.net
