Abstract: A standard-width powered switching station, i.e. a patchbay, employing single-plug Bantam Audio patchcords inserted into front panel jacks, designed to provide bidirectional data communication connectivity, i.e. remote controlling, between up to 32 pairs of RS422-compliant controllers and remotes, connected to rear panel DE9 ports. The patchbay being further designed to auto-configure the DE9 ports, such that their receivers and drivers are appropriately configured to communicate with controllers or remotes connected to said ports. Said auto-configuration process being protected from contamination from stray voltages by switch chips. Said auto-configuration process alternatively being protected from contamination from stray voltages by separating the data channels from the auto-configuration circuitry, thus removing the need for switch chips. Said auto-configuration circuitry being further protected from contamination from parasitic receiver voltages by biasing circuitry.