User manual XTA 4 SERIES

1.10 Page 2 4 Series Operator's Manual 4 Series Quick Reference Editing channels : press channel's GAIN key. First press accesses that channel's gain. To scroll through channel's parameters, use the BACK and NEXT keys. Second press accesses last viewed parameter. Third press will drop back to the default screen. Accessing menus: press the MENU key. Use the BACK and NEXT keys to select the sub-menu required, and enter the sub-menu using the ENTER key. This applies to all levels of menu. ENTER always confirms selections. The Menus and their Contents GLOBAL MEMORY Sub-menu: Recall/Store/Erase input, graphic and crossover settings, or combinations of. INPUT SECTION Sub-menu: Set up input ganging, and GEQ `Q' setting. CROSSOVER Sub-menu: Set up or adjust crossover design, including routing and auto limiter setting. Also set up output ganging. INTERFACE Sub-menu: Comms interface setup (RS232 and RS485), G.P.I. interface configuration, and wireless interface. SYSTEM Sub-menu: Used to view unit's status, and select various global options such as PEQ `Q' or bandwidth units, delay units, and output metering point (pre/post mute). SECURITY Sub-menu: Used for locking various operations of the unit, using a 4 digit code. AES/EBU Sub-menu: Switch outputs from analogue to digital and monitor AES input status info. (AES inputs are switched via rear panel.) Notes The crossover (output) settings may be stored independently of the input settings and graphic EQ, using the Global Memory submenu. The output meters show level, in dB from the limiter threshold, and the input meters show level from clipping the A-D converters, pre-gain and all EQ. The high and low pass crossover filters are defined independently on each output channel. To access the limiter attack and release parameters, select "AutoLimiter TimeCst: No" when designing a crossover. To swap parametric filter units between bandwidth (`BandW') and `Q', enter System Sub-menu, select `Filter Q / Bandwidth', and select required readout units. To swap delay time units, enter System Sub-menu, select `Delay Time / Distance', and select required readout units. Pressing an EDIT key flashes corresponding channels routed to / from that channel. 4 Series Operators Manual ¥ ¢ ¤ £ ¢ ¡ Page 3 Contents Important Safety Information Thanks Unpacking the unit Introduction Features 6 7 7 8 8 Front Panel Familiarisation Rear Panel Connections Operating the 4 Series Note about operation with AudioCore software. Start-up procedure Preliminary Set-up Input Channel Makeup Output Channel Makeup 12 12 9 10 11 11 11 11 12 15 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 18 18 18 19 19 Preset Routing Configurations (DP448 shown) Free Assign Routing Input Gain Base Delay Input Graphic EQ Input Parametric EQ Output Gain Output Polarity Output Delay Output High Pass Filter Output Low Pass Filter Output Parametric EQ Output Limiter Output "D-Max" (Clip) Limiter Input Ganging and Output Ganging Menu System Overview Menus in Detail Memory Structure Remote Control Interface Operation RS232 Interface 26 20 21 23 24 26 26 27 27 28 29 RS232 Connection (Single Unit) Loading New Software via a PC RS232 Connection (Multiple Units) Shadow ID Numbers RS485 Connection AES Inputs and Outputs AES Input AES Output 31 31 31 AES Diagnostics and Status Information Page 4 32 4 Series Operator's Manual Security and Locking Entering the Password to Complete the Locking Operation Unlocking the Unit Forgotten the Password? 33 33 34 34 PCMCIA Card and Compact Flash Card Usage Preset Library Updates via the card Unit Software Updates via the card Unit Cloning Copying Unit Software and Preset Files Copying Data from Source Unit Loading Data into Destination Unit Cold Start Reboot Procedure 36 36 36 35 35 35 36 36 Advanced Audio Features Graphic Equaliser Behaviour The "GQ600" behaviour The "Special" behaviour 37 38 37 37 39 39 40 Program Limiter and "D-Max" Limiter Program Limiter "D-Max" Clip Limiter Setting Accurate Limiter Thresholds Crossover Filter Slopes Time Alignment 42 43 43 Parametric Filter Types and Their Uses Standard Parametric EQ Shelving EQ (High Shelf shown) Creating a Flat-topped EQ Response Notch Filter All Pass Filter Phase Filter Low/High Pass Variable `Q' Filter (Low Pass shown) Elliptical filters 44 45 45 46 47 47 48 49 44 Specifications Warranty Options and Accessories Index Appendix I ­ DP446 Default Crossover Configurations Appendix II ­ DP444 Default Crossover Configurations Appendix III ­ DP424 Default Crossover Configurations 50 51 51 52 54 55 58 Operators Manual Page 5 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ An example of this equipment has been tested and found to comply with the following European and international Standards for Electromagnetic Compatibility and Electrical Safety: Radiated Emissions (EU): EN55013-1 (1996) RF Immunity (EU): EN55103-2 (1996) RF Immunity, ESD, Burst Transient, Surge, Dips &Dwells Electrical Safety (EU): EN60065 (1993) Important Safety Information Do not remove Covers. No user serviceable parts inside, refer servicing to qualified service personnel. This equipment must be earthed. CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN, MOISTURE, DRIPPING OR SPLASHING ATTENTION RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS ENLEVER NE PAS EXPOSER A LA PLUIE NI A L'HUMITE Objects containing liquids, such as vases, must not be placed on this equipment. It should not be necessary to remove any protective earth or signal cable shield connections. Do not defeat the purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade and the third prong are provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Only use this equipment with an appropriate mains cord. In the USA the cord should comply with the requirements contained in the Standard for Cord Sets and Power Supply Cords, UL 817, be marked VW-1, and have an ampacity rating not less than the marked rating of the apparatus. Page 6 4 Series Operator's Manual Thanks Thank you for choosing an XTA 4 Series for your application. Please spend a little time reading through this manual, so that you obtain the best possible performance from the unit. All XTA products are carefully designed and engineered for cutting-edge performance and world-class reliability. If you would like further information about this or any other XTA product, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Unpacking the unit After unpacking the unit, please check it carefully for any damage. If any is found, immediately notify the carrier concerned - you, the consignee, must instigate any claim. Please retain all packaging in case of future re-shipment. Please think of our environment and don't bin any materials, including this manual. When the product has reached the end of its useful life, please dispose of it responsibly through a recycling centre. Operators Manual Page 7 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Introduction The 4 Series are powerful DSP based audio processors, ideally suited for install applications, where they combine the functions of a multitude of conventional products in a compact 1U unit with extensive remote control capabilities. To achieve this, the units have up to four inputs and eight outputs which can be configured in a selection of basic crossover modes ­ 4 x 2 way; 2 x 3 way + 2 Aux; 2 x 4 way; and 1 x 8 way (as applicable to i/o configurations). They also offer a "free assign" mode, which allows completely flexible routing of any output from any combination of inputs. Each input has a gain control, variable delay, a 28 band graphic equaliser and a further eight bands of fully parametric equalisation. The parametric filter bands have a large selection of different filter types available, including shelving, notch, band-pass, phase and elliptical behaviours. Each output has a gain control, variable delay, high and low pass crossover filters, nine bands of fully parametric equalisation, polarity switching and, additionally, a fully featured limiter, and a final clip limiter. The crossover filters offer slopes of up to 48dB/Octave., with a variety of responses available. Remote control1 is catered for in the form of RS232 and RS485 ports, and multiple user memories are provided for the storage and recall of settings. A GPI interface may also be fitted to allow remote memory recalls using simple switch closure apparatus. Security lock-out is available for all controls. The 4 Series are also equipped with AES/EBU digital inputs and outputs, and include a sample rate converter, capable of accepting anything from 32kHz up tp 192kHz. They may be controlled externally by XTA's proprietary future `AudioCore' products. WindowsTM software, along with existing and Features Superb audio quality ­ carefully optimised double precision signal processing coupled with 24 bit conversion ensure a dynamic range in excess of 117dB. The high sampling rate of 96kHz means minimal filtering providing exceptional sonic purity with a bandwidth in excess of 32kHz. A flexible input/output multi-mode format caters for any configuration, regardless of scale. Both routing of inputs to outputs, and ganging (for editing) are completely flexible. A completely new SHARCTM based DSP platform supplies phenomenal computational power, allowing the unit to provide not only multiple bands of standard parametric equalisation on every input and output, but an additional full spectrum graphic equaliser on each of the four inputs. This additional power also permits both program limiters and no overshoot clip limiters on each output. Delay of up to 650mS may be independently set for each output, with an exceptionally fine minimum increment of 300nS, which corresponds to a distance change of 0.1mm! The comprehensive standard specification also includes up to 255 memories, and remote control via RS232 or RS485 ports, with security lockout. XTA's new proprietary Complex Unified Nyquist Truncation algorithm ensures that no matter how much equalisation is applied to a channel, there will always be sufficient headroom available to cater for it. 1 Note that only the RS232 and RS485 interfaces offer full remote control of this product ­ the GPI interface may only be used for memory recall (program change) purposes. Page 8 4 Series Operator's Manual Front Panel Familiarisation LCD Screen: Shows, by default, the name of the last recalled memory on the bottom line of the screen, and the current routing on the top line. Also used to show all parameters as they are edited, and all menu selections. Control Keys: Selection and adjustment of parameters. NEXT key moves forward through list of parameters. BACK key moves backwards through list of parameters. MENU key activates the main menu ­ a second press selects the last menu edited ­ a third press selects the last menu item. In this way, three presses on MENU from the default screen will jump back to the last parameter adjusted. Selection of different menus is accomplished using the BACK and NEXT keys, or with the FREQ encoder. ENTER key enters the chosen menu, confirms selections, and changes filter types when editing parametric sections. BYPASS will flatten the currently selected parametric sections, or input graphic equalisers. Note that, for safety reasons, it is not possible to bypass the high and low pass filter sections. QUIT exits menus back to the default screen. Rotary Encoders: Three velocity sensitive encoders adjust the relevant parameters as displayed on the screen. Memory Card Slot: Will accept type I or type II PCMCIA SRAM cards and, using an adapter, Compact Flash cards. This allows the unit to be cloned, memory sets saved, presets loaded, and firmware updates installed. Status LEDs: The four status LEDs show, from left to right, AES inputs selected (flashing if not locked); AES outputs selected; Comms activity (only illuminates on messages addressed to this particular unit); and a general-purpose spare indicator. Input Sections: Control and monitor input signal paths. Red MUTE buttons illuminate when pressed and mute audio for that channel. EDIT buttons illuminate yellow when pressed, and access gain on first press, then last viewed parameter on second press, then exit on third press. Input meters show dB from clipping point of the analogue to digital converters. Yellow (0dB) LED illuminates 3dB from clipping. Red CLIP LED may illuminate independently from the rest of the meter to show digital overflow. All four CLIP LEDs illuminating indicates internal clipping after the ADC. Output Sections: Control and monitor output signal paths. Red MUTE buttons illuminate when pressed and mute audio for that channel. EDIT buttons illuminate yellow when pressed, and access gain on first press, then last viewed parameter on second press, then exit on third press. Output meters show dB from limiting. The yellow LED illuminates at the onset of limiting. The red LED illuminates at 4dB into limiting (i.e. 4dB of gain reduction). Operators Manual Page 9 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Rear Panel Connections Power Switch: turns the unit's mains supply off and on. Mains Fuse: located in a finger-proof holder adjacent to the mains inlet. A spare fuse is also located in this holder. Mains Inlet: connected via a standard IEC socket. RS232: RS232 standard via a 9 pin D-type connector, for connection to a PC. Data is converted to RS485 standard and relayed to slave units via the RS485 sockets. RS485 In-Out: XLR sockets. Used for transmission of remote control data over long distance or multiple unit applications. See page 28 for more information. For more details on interfaces see our Interface Guide, available from the website. Audio Outputs: 3 pin XLR sockets are provided for each channel. All are fully balanced, pin 2 hot, 3 cold, 1 screen. Note the legending on the panel to designate which outputs are used for AES streams when the digital outputs are enabled. Please see page 31 for more information. AES Input Switch: Recessed switch to select AES digital inputs. Red LED will illuminate in the hole when AES inputs are selected, along with the corresponding front panel indicator. Audio Inputs: 3 pin XLR sockets are provided for each channel. All are fully balanced, pin 2 hot, 3 cold, 1 screen. Note the legending on the panel to designate which inputs are used for AES when the digital inputs are enabled. Please see page 31 for more information. Always replace the fuse with the correct type and rating as shown on the rear panel legend. Page 10 4 Series Operator's Manual Operating the 4 Series Note about operation with AudioCore software. The following operating information covers setup and control of the 4 Series via the front panel controls only. Please consult the manual supplied with this software for information regarding full computer control. Start-up procedure Switching on the unit will display a brief message detailing the unit type and software version running == AudioCore DP4XX == ==Software V 1.00 == and all LEDs will briefly illuminate. The unit will then begin its countdown to the wake-up procedure2, during which time the audio will fade up to the level last set. Metering will begin to operate when the fade-up starts. Preliminary Set-up The procedure below should be followed when first installing a 4 Series unit unit. Design your crossover! To do this, press MENU, and use the BACK or NEXT key to select `Crossover Crossover sub-menu' crossover' sub-menu and then press ENTER. Use the BACK or NEXT key to select `Design a crossover Design and then press ENTER. Finally, use the BACK or NEXT key to select the desired routing3and follow the set-up wizard to finalise your design. Note that when in a menu, ENTER is always used to confirm selections. The current selection is marked with an asterisk `*'. Use the EDIT keys on each output channel with the BACK and NEXT keys to select the high pass filters, low pass filters, parametrics etc. Note that when designing a new crossover, the high and low pass filters will be set to default values. Use the EDIT keys on each input channel with the BACK and NEXT keys to select the gain, delay and parametrics available on each input. Note that if no action is taken in menu mode, the unit will return to normal `default' mode after about twenty (20) seconds. Repeat the above directions to return to menu mode. 2 3 The wake-up time countdown may be adjusted in the SYSTEM menu ­ see page 23 for details. For details about adjusting the routing if one of the standard configurations does not suit, see page 15. Operators Manual ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Page 11 Routing Options and Processing Blocks Due to the completely new DSP platform, the routing possibilities within the 4 Series have been made completely flexible, with a matrix available allowing any combination of inputs to be routed to any output. The additional DSP power has permitted the inclusion of more processing blocks, even considering the extra inputs and outputs, and the doubling of sample rate. To reduce set-up time and aid usability, several standard configurations are available as described in a later section. This section will outline the processing blocks available in relation to the signal path, and explain the various options for routing, including the "Free Assign" mode, which opens up completely flexible channel routing. Input Channel Makeup The diagram below shows the processing available on each of the four input channels, before routing to the matrix. Output Channel Makeup The diagram below shows the processing available on each of the eight output channels, after routing from the matrix. Preset Routing Configurations (DP448 shown) In addition to the ability to assign any combination of inputs to any output, a number of preset configurations are provided, for use when designing a crossover from scratch. These have the advantage of suggested settings for the high and low pass filters to useful basic starting points, to filter the different outputs as appropriate for the chosen configuration. These may, of course, be freely modified afterwards should they not suit the requirements exactly. The diagrams on the following pages show the connections made between inputs and outputs, and the suggested values chosen for the high and low pass filters. Page 12 4 Series Operator's Manual 4 x 2 way crossover: As shown, each input feeds a pair of outputs, odd numbers being the low frequency split, and even numbers being the high part of the spectrum. Default suggested crossover frequencies are shown by each output. 2 x 3 way crossover: Inputs A and B feed three outputs each, with output 7 being fed from input C, and output 8 from input D. Note the `Aux' outputs are set to full range. Default suggested crossover frequencies are shown by each output. Operators Manual Page 13 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ 2 x 4 way crossover: Inputs A and B feed four outputs each, with inputs C & D being unused. Default suggested crossover frequencies are shown by each output. 1 x 8 way crossover: Inputs A is fed to all eight outputs, with initial settings being all full bandwidth. The crossover points can be adjusted as desired. Page 14 4 Series Operator's Manual Free Assign Routing If none of the preset configurations are appropriate to the required system setup, it is possible to manually select the Crossover. routing of the crossover. This is achieved through the Crossover Menu -> Design A Crossover Pressing ENTER will start the crossover design wizard, with the first option being to choose the routing. The display will show Design A Crossover -> Routing = 2 X 4 WAY * or whatever the current configuration is set to. Press BACK until the display shows Design A Crossover -> Routing = Free Assign And then press ENTER. The EDIT key will illuminate for output 1, as will any relevant input EDIT keys, showing which inputs are feeding output 1. The display will also detail the current combination of inputs feeding this output. To change the routing for any output, press its EDIT key, and then choose the required input channel combination by just pressing the input EDIT keys as appropriate. The input combinations can also be stepped through in turn by pressing NEXT, or BACK. To complete the procedure, press ENTER. The wizard will continue, and if the routing has been changed, all outputs will be muted on exit. Operators Manual Page 15 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Editing Audio Parameters ­ Input Channels Input Gain The range of the control over the input gain is ­40dB to +6dB in 0.1dB steps. InA Input A Gain Input Gain = +6.0dB Gain Base Delay The maximum available delay between any input and output is 650.00mS. For example, if the input delay on channel A is set to 500mS, the maximum available output delay for any output fed from input A will be 150mS. The readout units can be changed between time in milliseconds, distance in feet or distance in metres. Please see page 23 for more details. InA Input A Delay Base Delay = 0.00mS x 1mS x 10uS 343mm 4mm Input Graphic EQ The graphic equaliser has 28 third octave bands from 31Hz to 16kHz, and a gain range of +12dB. The G6 on the second line of the screen denotes the `Q' behaviour of the graphic ­ this setting behaves like a GQ600 with variable `Q' that is `gentler' at low cut/boost values and sharpens at high cut/boost values. The alternate setting, Sp is a constant `Q' Sp, behaviour where no change in bandwidth occurs with differing cut/boost. Pressing BYPASS will bypass the entire Graphic EQ on this channel. For details of how to select the behaviour, please see page 23. InA Input A Graph<> 40Hz +----- G6 0.0dB +----- Frequency Gain Input Parametric EQ There are eight bands of parameter equalisation available on every input. The behaviour of each individual band can be changed to a variety of different filter shapes, including high and low shelves, notch, and bandpass. Changing the filter type is achieved by pressing ENTER during editing any particular band. For more details about the various types of filter available, please see page 42. InA Input A PEQ:1<> 1k00Hz Q=3.0 0.0dB Frequency `Q' Gain Page 16 4 Series Operator's Manual Editing Audio Parameters ­ Output Channels Output Gain The range of the control over the input gain is ­40dB to +15dB in 0.1dB steps. OP1 Output 1 Gain Output Gain = +6.0dB Gain Output Polarity The polarity (or phase) of each output may be switched individually as below. OP1 Output 1 Polar. Polarity = [+] - or + Output Delay The maximum available delay between any input and output is 650.00mS. For example, if the input delay on channel A is set to 500mS, the maximum available output delay for any output fed from input A will be 150mS. The readout units can be changed between time in milliseconds, distance in feet or distance in metres. Please see page 23 for more details. OP1 Output 1 Delay Delay = 0.0000mS x 1mS x 10uS 343mm 4mm x0.3uS 0.1mm Operators Manual Page 17 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Output High Pass Filter The high pass crossover filter on each output has a frequency range of <10Hz up to 32kHz in 1/36th Octave steps. If you try to set the high pass filter to a higher frequency than the low pass (which would be pointless and result in no output), the message High/Low Freq. Overlap! will be displayed. Note that to access the 48dB/Octave filters, parametric bands 6 & 7 need to be bypassed, or set to 0dB. If they are not, the message Bypass PEQ's 6 & 7 To Access 48dB Slopes will be displayed. OP1 Output 1 HPF /~~ Linkw<10Hz Linkw-Riley 48dB Frequency Slope Output Low Pass Filter The low pass crossover filter on each output has a frequency range of 35.1Hz up to >32kHz in 1/36th Octave steps. If you try to set the low pass filter to a lower frequency than the high pass (which would be pointless and result in no output), the message High/Low Freq. Overlap! will be displayed. Note that to access the 48dB/Octave filters, parametric bands 8 & 9 need to be bypassed, or set to 0dB. If they are not, the message Bypass PEQ's 8 & 9 To Access 48dB Slopes will be displayed. ~~\ OP1 Output 1 LPF ~~\ Linkw>32kHz Linkw-Riley 48dB Frequency Slope Output Parametric EQ There are nine bands of parametric equalisation available on every output4. The behaviour of each individual band can be changed to a variety of different filter shapes, including high and low shelves, notch, and bandpass. Changing the filter type is achieved by pressing BYPASS to bypass the filter and then pressing ENTER during editing any particular band. For more details about the various types of filter available, please see page 42. OP1 Output 1 PEQ:1<> 1k00Hz Q=3.0 0.0dB Frequency `Q' Gain 4 Note that 2 bands each will be lost when using 48dB slope crossover filters, resulting in a maximum of 5 bands of EQ when both high and low pass are set to 48dB/Octave. Page 18 4 Series Operator's Manual Output Limiter The limiter on each output has adjustable attack and threshold, with a release time that is selectable to be a multiplier of the attack time. For example, as shown below, the attack time is 2mS and release is "x16" so 32mS. The attack and release times can be automatically linked to the high pass filter frequency, so that they are set to correct values for the output's frequency range. If this feature is enabled, the display will show Automatic T/C in place of the attack and release times. Selection of automatic time constants is through the Design a Crossover wizard, in the Sub-Menu. Crossover Sub-Menu OP1 Output 1 Limiter Atk=2.0mS Rel=x16 +22dB Attack Release Threshold Output "D-Max" (Clip) Limiter The clip limiter on each output is designed to sit at a threshold just above the standard limiter and has a look ahead attack so that its threshold can never be exceeded. The release time can be automatically linked to the high pass filter frequency, so that it is set to a value appropriate for the output's frequency range. If this feature is enabled, the display will show Rel. = Auto in place of the release time. Selection of automatic time constants is through the Sub-Menu. Design a Crossover wizard, in the Crossover Sub-Menu More information about the limiters and their use is given in the section on page 39. OP1 Output 1 ClipLim Rel.=Medium Rel.=Medium 2dB Above Release Threshold Operators Manual Page 19 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Input Ganging and Output Ganging The method of linking inputs or outputs together during editing is achieved in the same way, so only crossover (output) ganging will be explained here. Having selected Crossover Ganging from the menu under the Crossover Sub-Menu, Sub-Menu the current ganging set-up will be displayed. This will either be a preset selection as would be useful in a standard crossover configuration ­ for example <-Crossover Ganging Ganging=1+3+5+7 2+4+6+8 ...would be a logical ganging arrangement if the crossover was set up as a 4 x 2 way ­ linking the control and adjustment of all "Low" outputs together, and that of all "High" outputs together. However, if the crossover has not been set up with a preset routing configuration, then it may be required to set up the ganging to compliment this configuration. This is achieved using the Free Assign mode. This is selected from the preset ganging choices5, which are: [all outputs independent] Ganging=None [choose ganging] Ganging=Free Assign [1 x 8 way] Ganging=1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8 [4 x 2 way] Ganging=1+5 2+6 3+7 4+8 [2 x 4 way] Ganging=1+3+5+7 2+4+6+8 Selecting Free Assign and then pressing ENTER will begin the process of ganging outputs together using the following simple rules: All outputs are ganged to the lowest number ­ so to gang 3 & 5, 5 must be selected and then ganged to 3. Outputs cannot share more than one ganging set ­ so for example output 3 cannot be ganged to 2 and 4 unless they are ganged together as well. (Effectively 3 and 4 are ganged to 2 in this case) With these rules in mind, selecting and setting up gangs is quite straightforward. Press a MUTE key to choose the output to gang ­ its LED will begin to flash, and an EDIT key will illuminate to show which output it is currently ganged with. To change this selection, just press another EDIT key, remembering that gangs work from the highest to lowest number. So, to gang outputs 1 and 5, press MUTE 5 then EDIT 1 ­ the display will show <-Crossover Ganging Gang Output 5 with 1 Ganging is cleared by selecting Ganging=None from the initial choices given above. The Input Ganging procedure is identical to the crossover ganging, selectable under the Input Sub-Menu Sub-Menu. 5 Ganging choices will be dependent on the 4 Series unit in question and how many outputs it has. Page 20 4 Series Operator's Manual Menu System Overview Below is an overview of the menu system ­ a lot of functions have been assigned menu shortcuts ­ these are accessible directly from the default screen by pressing MENU followed by the appropriate MUTE or EDIT button as shown. This table only shows the top level of each menu item ­ some of these will start wizards or access additional functions, and these will be explained in later sections. Note that currently the menu shortcuts only apply to the DP448. To jump back to the last menu item accessed directly from the default screen, press MENU three (3) times ­ first press is into menus, second is a jump to the submenu, third is to the item... MAIN MENU GLOBAL MEMORY Recall a Memory INPUT SECTION Input Ganging CROSSOVER Design a Crossover Crossover Crossover Ganging INTERFACE External Interface SYSTEM System Status SECURITY Unit Locking AES/EBU Output Selection Store a Memory Input Reset Wiser 2400 Setup GPI Interface LCD Contrast AES Status Info. Erase a Memory Change Graph. Q/BW LED Brightness Temperature Alarm Program Update WakeWake-up Time Output Meters Filter Q/Bandwidth Delay Time/Dist'nce Unit Cloning Preset Up[date Clip LED Hold Time Set Date & Time Note that if no action is taken in menu mode, the unit will return to normal `default' mode after about twenty (20) seconds.. Repeat the above directions to return to menu mode. 4 Series Operators Manual ¦ § ¨ © ¨ Page 21 Menu System Shortcuts A lot of functions have been assigned menu shortcuts ­ these are accessible directly from the default screen by pressing MENU followed by the appropriate MUTE or EDIT button as shown. The entire list of features accessible in this way is given below. Note that currently the menu shortcuts only apply to the DP448. Store Graphic Memory Store Input Memory Store Crossover Memory Store Global Memory Recall Graphic Memory Recall Input Memory Recall Crossover Memory Recall Global Memory System Status SetExternal Interface Set-up Change Graphic Q/Bandwidth Filter Q/Bandwidth Display Readout Delay Units Time/Distance Readout AES Input Status Input --------Design a Crossover Input Ganging Crossover (Output) Ganging Input Reset Unit Locking AES Output Mode --------- Page 22 4 Series Operator's Manual Menus in Detail GLOBAL MEM. Recall a Memory Store Store a Memory Erase a Memory Recall Graphic, Input and Crossover Memories or combinations of. Store Graphic, Input and Crossover Memories or combinations of. Erase Graphic, Input and Crossover Memories or combinations of. INPUT SECTION Input Ganging Input Reset Change Graphic Q/BW Gang (link) inputs together so their parameters track. Start wizard to reset sections of input parameters, including graphics. Select between `GQ600' and other graphic behaviours. CROSSOVER Design a Crossover Crossover Ganging Set up a new crossover from scratch. This selection starts a wizard to guide through the process. Also select this to alter the set-up of the current crossover. Gang (link) outputs together so their parameters track. INTERFACE External Interface Wiser 2400 Setup GPI Interface Starts a wizard to configure the baud rate, ID and port selection of the remote interface. Configures wireless interface (if connected). Configure the GPI inputs used for closed contact memory recall (hardware option). SYSTEM System Status LCD Contrast LED Brightness Temperature Alarm Program Update WakeWake-up Time Output Meters Opt'n Filter Q/Bandwidth Time/Dist'nce Delay Time/Dist'nce Unit Cloning Displays a series of information screens including software version, temperature, hardware and firmware versions, date and time. Press NEXT to jump through info. Adjust the viewing angle of the screen. Adjust the brightness of all the meters and button LEDs. Set the threshold for the unit to flash a warning temperature message on the screen. Select this option to install new operating software ­ see page 35 for more information. Adjust the time before the audio fades in on start-up ­ can also be set to keep mutes on when powered up. Select the monitoring point for the meters ­ either pre or post mute (so meters can be set to work even when outputs muted) Select the readout units for the `Q' setting of parametric filters ­ `Q' is 1/Bandwidth (in octaves) ­ small `Q' values mean wide response variations. Select the readout units for all delay values ­ either time, or distance in feet or metres. Copy a unit's complete setup, including memories and all menu options using a PCMCIA card. See page 33 for more information on card types. Load a new preset file from a PCMCIA card Select the time that the input CLIP LEDs stay illuminated for after an overload has passed. Adjust the real time clock settings. Preset Update Clip LED Hold Time Set Date & Time SECURITY SECURITY Unit Locking Protect the unit against unauthorised access with a password - please see page 33 for more details. AES/EBU Output Selection AES Status Info. Switch the outputs of the unit to digital. (Inputs are selected via rear panel switch) Information screen showing details of the incoming AES streams (sample rate/lock). Page 23 Operators Manual ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Memory Structure As with the DP226 and DP224, the 4 Series have their memories split into sections, allowing independent recall of crossover settings (i.e. all parameters associated with outputs), and input settings. Additionally, the graphic equaliser settings are stored in independent locations. There are, therefore, three types of memory available ­INPUT CROSSOVER and GRAPHIC INPUT, GRAPHIC. INPUT Menu, These, and all combinations of memory types, appear in the GLOBAL MEMORY Sub Menu and its operation warrants a little more explanation. Selecting to Store or Recall using the Global Memory option offers the possibility of storing various combinations of the available memory types, and these are selected using the BACK and NEXT keys. To explain how this all works, please consider the following example. There are 10 memories stored in the unit with various combinations of input, graphic and crossover memories. As can be seen, different memory locations contain different combinations of the three memory types available. If it is required to recall a location that contains Input, Graphic and Crossover settings, this will limit the selection as shown overleaf... Page 24 4 Series Operator's Manual As only memory 8 and memory 10 have all 3 types stored, these will be the only numbers available during a recall. However, consider the example where the type of recall is set to Input & Crossover. In this instance, not only will the memory locations that have just Input and Crossover types stored be available, but the locations 8 & 10 will also be shown in the list. There will be three memories to choose from in this case, as location 6 is an Input & Crossover memory, whilst 8 and 10 will appear as they contain Input and Crossover information as well. Recalling 8 or 10 will leave the current Graphic settings untouched. Selection of Crossover memories only will additionally include locations 1 and 6 in the list of memories available for recall, as shown below. In this way it is possible to recall part of a memory, as long as it contains the memory type required. Note that storage and erasure of memories does not follow quite the same rules, being simpler in its operation. Selecting Input and Crossover during a Store will skip any memories that have other combinations in them. Selecting Erase for any combination will show only locations that have EXACTLY that combination ­ it is not possible to erase just one part of a combination memory. The 4 Series have 256 memory locations, but these are dynamic in nature ­ obviously a memory containing Input, Graphic and Crossover settings takes up more space than one containing just Input settings. Storage of 56 memories containing Input, Graphic and Crossover settings is possible. Operators Manual Page 25 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Remote Control Interface Operation XTA has a range of tried and tested interfaces, all of which are listed in the XTA Interface Guide, available from our website. We can supply all the interfaces described in this guide directly ­ please get in touch. RS232 Interface This interface is fitted as standard to all units and is accessed via the 9-pin D-type connector on the rear of the unit. Note that to connect to a computer's COM (serial) port correctly, a one-to-one cable must be used, and NOT a `null modem' cable. A `null modem' cable has the `transmit' and `receive' wires swapped over and will not work. The RS232 connection is suitable for distances of about a maximum of 25 feet between the PC and the unit. If you experience problems with the connections, consider · selecting a slower baud rate · selecting the `Use Acknowledge Cmd' option in AudioCore (see the Remote Menu > RS232 Configuration window) · running the unit via the RS485 interface Note than only one unit at a time may be connected to the computer via this interface. Additional units may be `daisychained' via the RS485 connections from the back of the first one (it acting as a converter for them), but their RS232 ports are not used. RS232 Connection (Single Unit) A typical interface set-up might involve running an RS232 link from laptop or a desktop computer to a 4 Series unit set up as a master unit. The diagram below shows this method of connection, the required menu options are also given. Note that the RS232 cable must be a 1-1 connection type, NOT a null modem cable (which has connections crossed internally). Page 26 4 Series Operator's Manual Loading New Software via a PC The unit's internal software may be updated via the RS232 port ONLY, one unit at a time. We recommend disconnecting all other devices when updating the software. The unit's interface must be set as RS232 Master on ID1 for the PC loader program to recognise it and allow the update to be sent. Download the latest version of the loader program and the unit software from www.xta.co.uk, and follow the instructions included with this zip file. An RSS feed is available on the website to ensure immediate notification of software releases. RS232 Connection (Multiple Units) If control over multiple units is required, typically the slaves will be set up to run from the RS485 ports on the master unit. Note the incremental `ID NUMBER' option in the unit's interface setup. Operators Manual Page 27 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ Shadow ID Numbers Shadow ID numbers allow extra units to share the same ID and follow the settings of the `main' ID. This is useful for larger systems (for example anything above a 4-way stereo system) where it is only necessary to set up one side of the system, and allow the other unit to track it identically. Using the shadow IDs in this way also reduces the apparent system complexity within AudioCore. This is due to the fact that shadow ID's NEVER send back any settings to AudioCore and because of this will NOT appear in the list of connected units. They can be thought of as listening to and acting upon all information addressed to them, but not replying. Up to 128 shadow units may be connected and assigned the same ID as the `main' unit, but remember that the maximum total units on any one RS485 network is 128. Shadow ID numbers are accessible when the unit's interface is configured, and will appear after ID number 128, starting from 1 again, but designated shadow IDs with an `s' after the number ­ 1s. Any ID can have multiple corresponding 1s shadows. RS485 Interface This interface is fitted as standard to all units and is accessed via the 3-pin XLR sockets on the rear of the unit. Cables to connect units together or to an RS232-485 converter will need to be wired one-to-one. We recommend the use of standard shielded microphone cables, or a balanced feed from a multicore. RS485 is a fully balanced system, capable of sending data over distances of up to one kilometre. Note, however, that this is the total length of connection. The RS485 output of each unit is purely hardwired from the input and so no electrical regeneration of the signal is provided. What this means is that the distance from the first RS485 output to the last RS485 input must not exceed 1km in total. As this diagram illustrates ­ The combined length of cables 01 + 02 + ...NN < 1000 metres. Note that this includes any units set up as shadow IDs. XTA has a range of tried and tested interfaces, all of which are listed in the XTA Interface Guide, available from our website. We can supply all the interfaces described in this guide directly ­ please get in touch. Page 28 4 Series Operator's Manual RS485 Connection To use RS485 communication directly from a computer, a master unit must be configured to receive RS485. You must have a suitable RS485 port on your computer, or a converter connected to the serial port in use. This configuration is shown below, along with the required unit setup. Both the converter and the required adapter cables are available from XTA. The adapter is available in a kit, which includes an RJ-45 adapter, the XLR to 9-pin adapter, and the converter itself. This complete kit is part number INT-485. If you need to make up one of the XLR to 9-pin adapters, the pin-out is: XLR 1 2 3 D-type 1 3 8 Operators Manual Page 29 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ If your laptop or PC does not have a spare serial port (or any serial ports for that matter!), the RS485 converter must be connected through a USB ­ Serial converter. The RS485 converter that XTA recommend is available in two types ­ the standard K2, and the more advanced K2-ADE version. Only K2-ADE version will work with USB-Serial converters, as these converters do not support the extra handshake lines used with the standard converter. Both the converters and the required adapter cables are available from XTA. The adapter is available in a kit, which includes a USB-Serial converter, the XLR to 9-pin adapter, and the K2-ADE converter itself. This complete kit is part number USB-485. XTA has a range of tried and tested interfaces, including USB and wireless solutions, all of which are listed in the XTA Interface Guide, available from our website. We can supply all the interfaces described in this guide directly ­ please get in touch. If a DP224/6 receives a MIDI Start or Stop command (used to mute / unmute all outputs) it will relay this message on the RS485 port to any connected units. The 4 Series units will respond to this message even though it cannot directly receive MIDI commands, due to not having a MIDI interface ;) Page 30 4 Series Operator's Manual AES Inputs and Outputs The 4 Series units have a full AES implementation built in as standard. This allows the unit to both receive digital audio directly, and to transmit digital audio on to other devices. The switching of input and output can be performed independently, and the inclusion of sample rate converters on the inputs allows the unit to accept sample rates from 32kHz up to 192kHz. AES Input Input selection is via a recessed switch on the rear panel of the unit, between input D and output 1. A red LED inside this aperture illuminates to show that the AES digital inputs have been selected. A complimentary LED on the front panel below the PCMCIA card also illuminates. The switch controls the rear panel LED directly, whilst the front panel one is via the processor, allowing it to relay a little more information. If it is flashing, this means that AES inputs have been selected but have not locked. Once a stable AES signal is being received, it will be permanently illuminated. The AES inputs are marked on the rear panel ­ for channels A & B use input A, and for channels C & D use input C. AES Output AES outputs are selected through the AES menu: AES/EBU Sub Menu Output Selection Pressing ENTER and then using BACK and NEXT chooses either Digital. Analogue or Digital Press ENTER again to confirm selection. The AES outputs are marked on the rear panel ­ Channels 1 & 2 use Output 1 Channels 3 & 4 use Output 3 Channels 5 & 6 use Output 5 Channels 7 & 8 use Output 7. Operators Manual Page 31 ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ £ £ £ £ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ ¡¡ ¡¡ AES Diagnostics and Status Information Also under the AES/EBU Sub Menu is the AES Status Information option, which can be used to check the incoming sample rate(s) and confirm that the data is being received correctly. Pressing ENTER will first show AES Device Status V1: E V2: E V3: A This display shows the correct operation of the three AES transmitters V1, V2 and V3. The letter after each is the silicon version (and is of no importance to the user). Pressing ENTER again will show AES Device Status V : 96k0 V : 96k0 This display shows the status of the two AES receivers, input A on the left, and Input C on the right. The sample rate the unit has been able to lock to is shown, or UNLOCKED will be displayed in its place. The unit will lock to sample rates from 32kHz up to and including 192kHz. The unit's own processing sample rate is 96kHz, and AES output data is always at 96kHz. Internal sample rate converters will translate all incoming rates to 96kHz ­ one converter for each AES input. This allows the two input streams to be at different rates if necessary. Page 32 4 Series Operator's Manual Security and Locking ENTER, After selecting the Security Sub Menu and pressing ENTER select one of the lock types, choosing the most appropriate one for your application. As ever, ENTER will confirm your selection. User Specific Upon pressing ENTER to select this type of lock, each parameter group is presented in turn. Choose the type of lock (as above) using the FREQ encoder, and press ENTER to confirm each parameter. After the last parameter, the unit requests a password. The description of this operation is given at the end of this section. This option allows the user to specify, for each type of parameter, whether it is to be completely accessible (`No Lock'), viewable but not adjustable (`Control'), or effectively unavailable (`Display'). The ability to operate mutes, store or recall memories, or even access the menus may also be locked. Xover Only All input parameters are available, but only the gain trim (+ 6dB) is available on the outputs, effectively locking all the crossover settings. All mutes remain active. Xover + Trim All input parameters available, but no output parameters ­ the crossover sections are completely locked. All mutes remain active. Xover + Trim + Mute As for `Xover + Trim' but additionally, output mutes are locked. Input mutes remain active. Changes Only All parameters may be viewed, but none may be adjusted. This applies to both inputs and outputs. All mutes remain active. Changes + Views No parameters are accessible ­ in effect the EDIT keys do nothing. All mutes remain active. Changes + Mutes All parameters may be viewed, but none may be adjusted. This applies to both inputs and outputs. All mutes are also locked. EVERYTHING No parameters are accessible ­ in effect the EDIT and MUTE keys do nothing. Entering the Password to Complete the Locking Operation After selection of the lock type from the list above, a four-digit security code will be asked for. This can be entered by using the FREQ control to select a character, and the BACK and NEXT keys to move to the next character. Alternatively, the EDIT keys can be used to enter a code by pressing any combination of the eight buttons. Each EDIT key represents its channel labelling, so any combination of A, B, C, D, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6 7 and 8 can be used as a code, as 5, 6, shown below. Press ENTER to accept code and then re-enter it to confirm. To prevent external computer control being used to adjust locked settings, be sure to set the external interface to OFF before locking out the unit. 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