The answer is: "It depends on many factors." Which though true, is not very useful. So even though there is a complex relationship between the various functions and hardware available to the user, there are some very approximate rules of thumb that can be used to get a first approximation of the permissible equipment configuration that can be supported by a given DACS or on a single TDM loop:

Caution! These figures are approximate and are very dependent upon the complexity/richness of the model. No warranty is implied or provided, actual mileage may vary with use, etc. They are intended to allow for some spare capacity on the platform, though.

Rules of Thumb (For a typical 2U platform*)

Rule #1: The number of monaural operator positions plus the number of independent network radios (or network intercoms) should not exceed 32 for an entire platform.

For example It may be feasible to support 24 operator positions on a single DACS, but only if they shared a bank of 12 radios between them. However if each operator had access to to two independent radios (capable of being on a different frequency and/or in a different physical location, from any of the others) then the DACS should be configured for 12 operators (and 24 radios)

Rule #2: The number of monaural operator positions should not exceed 12 on a given TDM .

Rule #3: The number of RIUs connected to a TDM loop should not exceed 12.

* For a micro-DACS this figure should be reduced to 24 and a maximum of 12 operators.