Allen & Heath AH-DLIVE-GPIO General Purpose I/O Interface

Product Overview

The Allen & Heath AH-DLIVE-GPIO is a dedicated General Purpose I/O Interface designed to bridge third-party control hardware with dLive, Avantis, and AHM mixing systems over a standard Cat5 network connection. It provides 8 opto-isolated inputs and 8 relay outputs in a compact half-rack form factor, enabling reliable, low-latency logic signaling across a wide range of professional AV installations. The GPIO unit communicates with up to 7 additional GPIO modules on the same network, making it scalable for complex multi-room or multi-zone deployments. Whether you need to trigger emergency evacuation mutes, synchronize on-air lights, or automate theatrical cues, this interface delivers robust, deterministic control without requiring dedicated control processors.

Product Description

The Allen & Heath dLive GPIO interface is built for system integrators and AV engineers who require reliable hardware-level automation within a dLive or Avantis ecosystem. Unlike software-only control solutions, the GPIO uses opto-isolated inputs to eliminate ground loop interference from external devices, and its normally-open relay outputs can switch loads up to 24V DC at 400mA — sufficient for indicator lights, relay coils, and low-current control circuits.

Installation is straightforward: connect the GPIO to your dLive MixRack, Avantis surface, or AHM processor using a single Cat5 cable up to 100 meters, or through a 100Mb/s network switch to extend reach across a facility. The unit accepts power either via an external 12V DC power supply (included) or through Power over Ethernet (PoE, IEEE 802.3af), reducing cabling requirements in permanently installed applications.

For fixed installations, the GPIO mounts in a standard 19" rack at 1U height and half-rack width using optional rack ears (sold separately), or it can be placed free-standing on a control desk. All eight inputs and eight relay outputs terminate on Phoenix-style screw connectors for secure, tool-free field wiring. One relay output is configurable as normally-closed (N/C) for fail-safe applications such as EVAC systems where a loss of signal must trigger a default state.

Two +10V DC auxiliary outputs provide power for external indicator LEDs or small sensor circuits, eliminating the need for a separate power supply in simple control feedback loops. The dLive GPIO is fully configured from within the dLive or Avantis console software, with no additional programming environment required. Each input and output can be mapped to specific mix functions, mute groups, scene recalls, or custom logic — providing a direct, hardware-enforced link between the physical world and your digital mixing system.

Key Features

• 8 Opto-Isolated Inputs — Eliminates ground loops and protects console electronics from external voltage transients.
• 8 Normally-Open Relay Outputs — Switches loads up to 24V DC / 400mA; one output configurable as normally-closed for fail-safe EVAC applications.
• PoE or 12V DC Power — Accepts IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet or external DC supply for flexible, low-cabling installation.
• Cat5 Network Connection — Single cable carries audio control data up to 100m directly to dLive, Avantis, or AHM systems.
• Up to 8 GPIO Units Per System — Daisy-chain or network-connect up to 8 modules for large multi-zone venue control.
• Two +10V DC Auxiliary Outputs — Powers external indicator LEDs and low-current sensor circuits without an additional PSU.
• Rack or Desktop Mounting — Half-rack, 1U form factor fits in standard 19" racks with optional rack ears (sold separately).
• Console-Integrated Configuration — All I/O mapping handled inside dLive, Avantis, or AHM software — no external programming required.

Typical Applications

• Emergency Evacuation (EVAC) Systems — Use the normally-closed relay output to implement fail-safe mute triggering when fire or alarm systems activate.
• Broadcast On-Air Logic — Drive on-air indicator lights and receive fader-start signals from broadcast consoles or playout systems.
• Theatrical Automation — Synchronize curtain motors, lighting cues, and scene changes with dLive scene recalls via GPIO triggers.
• Multi-Zone Commercial AV — Automate audio routing and muting across conference centers, airports, and retail environments without a separate control processor.
• House of Worship — Trigger sermon recording start/stop and monitor feed routing from simple push-button stations at the platform.
• Corporate AV Integration — Interface room scheduling systems, occupancy sensors, and AMX/Crestron logic with the dLive or Avantis mixing system.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Allen & Heath systems are compatible with the AH-DLIVE-GPIO?

The GPIO is compatible with Allen & Heath dLive, Avantis, and AHM systems. It is not designed for use with SQ, Qu, or GLD series consoles.

How many GPIO units can be connected to a single dLive system?

Up to 8 GPIO units can be networked to a single dLive or Avantis system, providing a maximum of 64 inputs and 64 relay outputs across the installation.

Does the GPIO require a dedicated network switch, or can it connect directly to the console?

It can connect directly to the dLive MixRack or Avantis surface via a single Cat5 cable (up to 100m), or through a 100Mb/s unmanaged network switch for longer runs or multi-device topologies.

Can the GPIO be used for EVAC (emergency evacuation) applications?

Yes. One relay output is configurable as normally-closed (N/C), which is specifically suited for fail-safe EVAC mute circuits where a loss of signal or power must default to a triggered state.

Is PoE sufficient to power the GPIO, or is an external PSU required?

PoE (IEEE 802.3af) is sufficient to fully power the GPIO unit. An external 12V DC PSU is also supported if PoE is not available on the network infrastructure.

Are rack mount ears included?

No. Rack mounting accessories are sold separately. The unit operates free-standing without any additional hardware.

What is the maximum load the relay outputs can switch?

Each relay output can switch up to 24V DC at a maximum of 400mA. These are low-current control outputs and are not rated for mains voltage switching.

How is the GPIO configured — is special software required?

All GPIO mapping is performed within the dLive, Avantis, or AHM console firmware. No external programming environment, PC software, or third-party controller is required.