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Falcon 35 FM & ST D i g i t a l F M P r o c e s s o r Operating manual (Rel. 2.6) Via Caduti Di Sabbiuno 6/F - 40011 Anzola Emilia - Bologna - Italy - Tel.+39 051 736555 - Fax.+39 051 736170 e-mail: info@axeltechnology.com...
TABLE OF CONTENTS E N G 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................3 INTRODUCTION........................... 5 AVAILABLE VERSIONS........................7 ..............................7 VERSION ..............................7 VERSION BLOCK DIAGRAMS ..........................8 FM VERSION – BLOCK DIAGRAM ......................8 ST VERSION – BLOCK DIAGRAM ......................9 FOREWORD............................
TABLE OF CONTENTS E N G 19.11 MPX OUTPUT LEVEL (FM )*..................54 VERSION ONLY 19.12 MPX OUTPUT PREEMPHASIS (FM )* ................55 VERSION ONLY 19.13 PILOT CALIBRATION (FM ) * ..................55 VERSION ONLY 19.14 RDS SIGNAL LEVEL CONTROL (FM ..............56 VERSION ONLY 19.15 POWER LIMITER CONTROL ITU 412 (ST )..............57...
INTRODUCTION E N G 2 INTRODUCTION Thank you for choosing this easy to use, digital 5 band audio processor for Fm band and satellite radio broadcasting. The processing is based on 5 compressors for the Bass, Mid1, Mid2, Mid3 and High audio bands. Several, easily modified parameters strongly affect the colour and richness of the sound.
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PC software interface. The Falcon 35 MKII features two hardware bypass: the first one connects the Right / Left audio input to the Right / Left audio output (on XLR connectors) in the event of Main AC failure. The second hardware bypass directly connects the AUX-1 Bnc to the OUT-1 Bnc, also in the event of Main AC failure.
AVAILABLE VERSIONS E N G 3 AVAILABLE VERSIONS 3.1 FM VERSION Thanks to its state-of-the-art digital technology, the processor integrates, as an option, a Stereo MPX coder (including composite clipper) and a RDS coder. The digital MPX stereo coder (optional) represents the ideal ‘final touch’ of processing. As it is directly built-in, it is totally harmonized with all other signal processing stages and ensures the best results in signal density while adhering to modulation limits.
BLOCK DIAGRAMS E N G 4.2 ST VERSION – BLOCK DIAGRAM Page 9...
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BLOCK DIAGRAMS E N G SAFETY WARNINGS CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD (Rel. 1.0) Page 10...
Axel Technology shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any error contained in this manual, or through any mis-operation or fault in hardware contained in the product.
SAFETY WARNINGS E N G 6 SAFETY WARNINGS The installation and servicing instructions in this manual are for use by qualified personnel only. Read All Instructions. All safety and operating instructions must be read before operating the product. They also must be retained for future reference, as it contains a number of useful hints for determining the best combination of equipment settings for Yr particular application.
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SAFETY WARNINGS E N G Do not change the voltage setting or replace the mains fuse without first turning the unit off and unplugging the mains cord. This apparatus must be EARTHED ! To avoid risk of fire use the correct value fuse, as indicated on the label stuck on the right side of the unit.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES E N G CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES Lire ces consignes Conserver ces consignes Observer tous les avertissements Suivre toutes les consignes Ne pas utiliser cet appareil à proximité de l’eau Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon sec Ne pas obstruer les ouvertures de ventilation.
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CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES E N G Avant de modifier le commutateur de changement de tension ou replacer le fusible il faut débrancher l’appareil de la prise électrique Pendant son usage, l’appareil doit etre branchee à la prise de terre Utiliser le fusible principal AC avec le valeur qui est indiquée sur l'étiquette collée sur le coffret.
ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA E N G 8 ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA Leggere le presenti istruzioni Conservare queste istruzioni Osservare tutte le avvertenze Seguire scrupolosamente tutte le istruzioni Non usare questo apparecchio in prossimità di acqua Pulire l'apparecchio solo con un panno asciutto. Non ostruire alcuna apertura per il raffreddamento.
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ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA E N G Non sostituire il fusibile o cambiare la tensione di alimentazione senza aver prima scollegato il cordone di alimentazione. L’apparato deve essere connesso a terra durante il suo utilizzo. Sostituire il fusibile generale con uno di identico valore, come indicato sulla etichetta applicata sul mobile dell’apparato.
WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE E N G 9 WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE Diese Hinweise LESEN Diese Hinweise AUFHEBEN Alle Warnhinweise BEACHTEN Alle Anweisungen BEFOLGEN Dieses Gerät NICHT in der Nähe von Wasser verwenden NUR mit einem sauberen Tuch REINIGEN KEINE Lüftungsöffnungen verdecken. Gemäß den Anweisungen des Herstellers einbauen Nicht in der Nähe von Wärmequellen, wie Heizkörpern, Raumheizungen, Herden oder anderen Geräten (einschließlich Verstärkern) installieren, die Wärme erzeugen Die Schutzfunktion des Schukosteckers NICHT umgehen.
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WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE E N G Vor Änderung der Netzspannung oder Sicherungswechsel Netzkabel trennen. Das Gerät muss für den Betrieb geerdet werden. Hauptsicherung nur mit einer gleichwertigen austauschen (s. entsprechende Etikette). Vor Einschalten Netzspannungseinstellung am Gerät überprüfen bzw. anpassen. Inpoliger Netzschalter. In Notfälle oder für Wartungsarbeiten Netzkabel trennen. Der Netzstecker fungiert auch als Trennelement muss deshalb zugänglich bleiben Page 19...
INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD E N G 10 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD LEA estas instrucciones CONSERVE estas instrucciones PRESTE ATENCION a todas las advertencias. SIGA todas las instrucciones NO utilice este aparato cerca del agua LIMPIESE UNICAMENTE con un trapo seco NO obstruya ninguna de las aberturas de ventilación.
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INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD E N G Antes de cambiar la alimentacion de voltaje o de cambiar el fusible, desconecte el cable de alimentacion. Para reducir el riesgo de descargas electricas, esta unidad debe ser conectada a tierra. Remplaze el fusible con lo mismo, que corresponde a lo indicado en el panel del equipo.
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION E N G 11 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION Your equipment was packed carefully at the factory in a container designed to protect the unit during shipment. Nevertheless, we recommend making a careful inspection of the shipping carton and the contents for any signs of physical damage.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS E N G 12 FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 12.1 POWER SUPPLY CABLE A power supply cable of approx. 2 m length is supplied with the device. The type of plug for the power supply depends on the country in which it is delivered. Supply cables should be laid in such a manner that one does not step or walk on them.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS E N G 12.3 FUSE REPLACEMENT The power supply socket has an integral fuse drawer containing the AC power fuse and a spare, both of the same value. BEFORE REPLACING THE POWER FUSE, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TYPE OF FUSE FOR THE VOLTAGE TO BE PROTECTED.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS E N G 12.5 RACK MOUNTING THE UNIT To mount the unit in a standard 483 mm (19-inch) audio equipment rack, slide the equipment into the rack and secure it with front crosshead screws. Use all four screws. 12.6 VENTILATION The equipment will operate as a free-standing unit without requiring any special cooling arrangement.
I/O BASIC SETTINGS E N G 13 I/O BASIC SETTINGS 13.1 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT IMPEDANCE The analog input impedance may be set to 600Ohm, rather than the default 10kOhm, by moving the two jumpers J1 and J2 on the analog input/output board (see figure below). INPUT INPEDENCE 604 OHM J1-J2 INPUT INPEDENCE 10K OHM...
I/O BASIC SETTINGS E N G The digital input impedance may be set to 75Ohm, rather than the default 110Ohm, by moving the associated jumper on the digital I/O board (see figure). 75 OHM - SPDIF 110 OHM - AES/EBU NB the digital I/O board is available as an option 13.3 50 US / 75 US OUTPUT PREEMPHASIS SETTING (FM VERSION ONLY) The frequency characteristic of analog L &...
GENERAL DESCRIPTION E N G 14 GENERAL DESCRIPTION 14.1 REAR PANEL VIEW (FM & ST) FM version O p t o R e l a y I n p u t O u t p u t 1 3 2 1 3 2 S e r i a l R S - 2 3 2 D i g i t a l I n p u t...
GENERAL DESCRIPTION E N G 12 ANALOG AUDIO OUTPUT: It provides the L and R processed audio signals on which it is possible to enable/disable pre-emphasis. The level is set via menu. 13 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT: bi-channel audio input electronically balanced on XLR female. The input level is set via menu.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION E N G 14.3 DISPLAY DESCRIPTION 1. ON AIR Preset: shows the current processing curve. The presets ranging from 1 to 30 are factory preset, while curves 31 to 40 are user settable. A table showing the curve parameter levels is available on this manual.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION E N G 14.4 LCD BACKLIGHT CONTROL As factory preset, the LCD backlight is automatically turned off in the event the front panel controls (shuttle and buttons) are left untouched for 5 minutes. If permament backlight is needed, move the jumper J9 located on the front panel board towards the mother boards.
AUDIO I/O AND SERIAL PORT WIRING E N G 15 AUDIO I/O AND SERIAL PORT WIRING Where possible use balanced connections for the audio inputs and outputs to minimise noise pick-up. Avoid running audio cables near to mains or lighting cables or thyristor dimmer units, power supplies etc. These may cause audible hum and buzz.
AUDIO I/O AND SERIAL PORT WIRING E N G 15.2 DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT * The digital input (available only as an option - DG-IN) features two connectors: coaxial and optic. Only one connector may be connected at a time to avoid malfunctions (TOSLINK optical connector should be kept covered while not used).
AUDIO I/O AND SERIAL PORT WIRING E N G 15.3 DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUT ** The digital output features two connectors: coaxial and optic. Only one connector may be connected at a time to avoid malfunctions. The output format is AES3/EBU with sample rate 48KHz, 24 bit. Please keep the tos-link connector covered while not used.
AUDIO I/O AND SERIAL PORT WIRING E N G SERIAL PORTS 15.5 The processor features two optoisolated serial ports for remote control through PC (connected directly or via satellite chain) of all machine functions and parameters. A standard, not crossed serial cable (9p male – 9p female) is provided with the equipment, compatible with all configurations.
MPX BOARD CONNECTIONS (FM VERSION ONLY) E N G 16 MPX BOARD CONNECTIONS (FM VERSION ONLY) Available as an option on the FM version, the MPX board supports many configurations and operation modes. M P X M P X M P X O u t O u t T e s t...
MPX BOARD CONNECTIONS (FM VERSION ONLY) E N G 16.2 DEFAULT MPX BOARD CONFIGURATION (FM-MPX VERSION ONLY) When not otherwise specified, the MPX board comes with J2, J4 and J5 jumpers closed and with OUT-2 output disabled. The AUX 2 input (BNC connector, 10 kOhm impedance) allows an external signal (tipically RDS) from an external encoder to be injected on the MPX output of the processor.
THE ‘SPLIT’ MODE (FM VERSION ONLY) E N G The SYNC OUT (BNC connector) outputs a 19KHz / 5Vpp square wave for external equipment synchronization (i.e. RDS encoders). The Sync output must be enabled via the menu (Optional Controls / MPX Mode / Sync Out).
THE ‘SPLIT’ MODE (FM VERSION ONLY) E N G 17.1 HOW TO ACTIVATE THE ‘SPLIT’ MODE (FM VERSION ONLY) The ‘Split’ mode (available as an option) is activated through a dedicated input on the OPTO INTERFACE port. The OPTO-INPUT Port is a 9-pin female Interface (on DB-9 connector) which provides 2 optoinsulated “trigger”...
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THE ‘SPLIT’ MODE (FM VERSION ONLY) E N G EXAMPLE N° 2 – SPLIT activation by clean contact SPLIT OPTO INPUT (connector internal view) The external switch (clean contact) is used to shortcut pin 2 and pin 3 (with pin 1 and 6 tied together) Page 41...
BROWSING THE MENU TREE E N G 18 BROWSING THE MENU TREE This chapter describes all of the parameters and functions you can access and edit through the front panel of the audio processor, grouped according to functional area. See the Menu Tree on the following page. It is useful to note that you can also access all menu settings and parameters more quickly and conveniently through the PC control software.
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BROWSING THE MENU TREE E N G To browse the menu: The Enter button (or pressing the shuttle knob) has a dual function: to allow access to a menu sublevel, and to save a new parameter or function value. The Esc button (or selecting ‘Quit’ and then pressing Enter) allows you to exit a menu sublevel or parameter editing screen (exit without saving) Every time you access a parameter or function, the display shows its current value or status.
BROWSING THE MENU TREE E N G 18.1 FM VERSION – MENU TREE ⏐⎯ FIRMWARE VERSION ⏐⎯ DISPLAY REFERENCES (automatic carousel of Band compression and Input L/R ranges) ⏐⎯ ⏐⎯ ⏐⎯⎯ Serial Module OPTIONAL CONTROLS RS232 Serial 1 Serial Off / Pc Host Interface ⏐⎯...
BROWSING THE MENU TREE E N G 18.2 ST VERSION – MENU TREE ⏐⎯ FIRMWARE VERSION ⏐⎯ DISPLAY REFERENCES (automatic carousel of Band compression and Input L/R ranges) ⏐⎯ ⏐⎯ ⏐⎯⎯ Serial Module OPTIONAL CONTROLS RS232 Serial 1 Serial Off / Pc Host Interface ⏐⎯...
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19 I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP The processor is designed for easy installation and set up. All necessary interface connections are made through rear panel connectors. Refer to Rear Panel Connectors Chapter for a description and placement of each of the connections.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.2 ANALOG INPUT LEVEL ADJUSTMENT Skip this step if you are not using the analog inputs. This step calibrates the analog inputs to the level at which your studio system peaks its program material on the studio meters.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.3 MONO / STEREO INPUT OPERATION (ST VERSION ONLY) The ‘INPUT MODE’ menu selects the mono versus stereo operation of the input. You can chose between a full stereo operation or a Mono mode where Left and Right input channels are mixed together before going through the main processing stages.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G The Phase Rotator stage performs 1 msec Group Delay at low frequencies in respect of medium frequencies. This results in a phase rotation centered on 600 Hz frequency. 19.5 AGC SPEED One of the most important processor function is the Automatic Gain Control (AGC) system, which compensates for variations in the input level to keep the signal at 0 dB.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.6 AGC MODE The AGC Mode menu mainly serves to regulate the maximum level gain recoverable by the AGC (MaxGain) and its intervention time (with reference to the interval –3 to 3 dB within which the AGC works at one quarter of the user-set speed).
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.7 ANALOG OUTPUT PRE-EMPHASIS The XLRs analog output is intended for applications requiring discrete L/R processed audio. The frequency characteristic can follow a selected pre-emphasis curve, with or without subsequent de-emphasis. The factory-default setting is with pre-emphasis engaged, accordingly to the destination country (50 or 75 uSec).
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G Remarks: Only one pre-emphasis must be kept active in a transmitting chain. It is highly recommended to use the pre-emphasis within the processor and turn off the one generated by external TX or MPX Coders. The processor’s pre-emphasis may be disabled on the analog audio outputs, but NOT on the MPX output, which remains 50 or 75 uSec pre-emphasized at all times.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.9 ANALOG OUTPUT LEVEL You can adjust the analog audio output level (XLR connectors) through the Output Level control: DEFAULT SCREEN OUTPUT CALIBRATION menu OUTPUT LEVEL page The Output Level parameter expresses the peak value (in dBu) achieved by the audio output signal (which therefore corresponds to the maximum frequency deviation).
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.11 MPX OUTPUT LEVEL (FM VERSION ONLY)* The MPX signal (+ any internally or externally generated RDS signal or SCA signal) is available on the Bnc MPX OUT connector. * the MPX module is available as an option The MPX output may be tuned using the small trimmer located next to the output BNC.
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.12 MPX OUTPUT PREEMPHASIS (FM VERSION ONLY)* The Mpx output is with pre-emphasis always engaged, accordingly to the destination country (50 or 75 uSec). If, for some reason, the unit is to be operated at a preemphasis time which is different to that as supplied, set the proper pre-emphasis time through the menu: DEFAULT SCREEN OUTPUT CALIBRATION menu...
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G RDS SIGNAL LEVEL CONTROL (FM VERSION ONLY) 19.14 The processor generated RDS signal level and phase can be adjusted by means of the RDS Module menu. DEFAULT SCREEN OPTIONAL CONTROLS menu RDS MODULE menu RDS LEVEL (or RDS PHASE) The RDS signal Level may be adjusted within the deviation range of 1.0 to 6.0 kHz (default operating level: -31.5dB, D=2.0 KHz).
I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G 19.15 POWER LIMITER CONTROL ITU 412 (ST VERSION ONLY) The ITU BS-412 regulation aims to reduce the density of the modulated signal while maintaining the same peak deviation level in order to ensure minimal or limited co-channel interference. The BS-412 definition says: “It is assumed that the maximum peak deviation of +/- 75 kHz is not exceeded.
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I/O CALIBRATION AND SYSTEM SETUP E N G For instance: Output mode Limiting threshold RDS signal not available + 0.25 dB ITUref Mono signal (no Pilot available) +1.0 dB ITUref Mono signal (no Pilot available) + RDS +0.75 dB ITUref For better results, we recommend to use the Equalization Presets 29 and 30 (labeled as ITU), as they have been especially designed to keep the output power as much constant as possible.
ADDITIONAL SETUP TASKS E N G 20 ADDITIONAL SETUP TASKS SERIAL PORT ENABLING (SERIAL MODULE) 20.1 The Serial Module menu visualizes the status of the two serial ports RS 232 allowing their enabling or disabling. Remarks: Ports are enabled by default (factory preset). Firmware upgrade and remote control are possible only with enabled ports.
ADDITIONAL SETUP TASKS E N G To save a new setting, press Enter twice. Press Esc to exit without saving any changes. Press Esc again, or select the Quit option on the display, to return to the next higher menu layer. 20.3 NOISE GATE SETTING (NOISE GATE) The Noise Gate function allows you to avoid the effects of background noises while the input signal presents a lack of high frequencies.
ADDITIONAL SETUP TASKS E N G 20.4 READING OUT THE FIRMWARE CODE The Firmware Code menu page displays the internal firmware serial code. The user must supply this number to the manufacturer in order to upgrade the processor firmware or add the RDS option.
ADDITIONAL SETUP TASKS E N G 20.7 CHANGING THE OPERATING MODE (OUTPUT MODE) The Output Mode function allows you to select from among three different equipment operating modes: Normal operation Peak Reference Tone Processor ByPass The Normal operation allows normal use of the equipment and all of its functions. In Peak Reference Tone mode, a reference tone of 400 Hz is output on the Analog Out output, as well as on the MPX Out ** output consisting of a 400 Hz/ 0 dB tone + 19 kHz / - 20 dB pilot tone *****.
CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G 21 CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) 21.1 INTRODUCTION Once you have adjusted the input levels and reached the correct AGC level, you may move on to select the processing curve.
CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G SUPER BASS (T)=test BASS WIDE PRESET DESCRIPTION MID 1 MID 2 MID 3 HIGH BRILLIANCE (S)=sign LEVEL DENSITY (Q)=quality LEVEL TYPE 01 CDG FLAT d.soft 02 CHI FLAT d.soft 03 DFW FLAT d.soft 04 FCO...
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CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G The following processing parameters may be adjusted. • The Super Bass Level parameter sets the level of the Bass Enhancer effect added to Super Bass the sound. Level The Bass Enhancer takes the bass signal from the 30Hz-200Hz range, and generates subharmonics that are filtered and modeled by the Super Bass Type, then once again injected onto the bi-channel signal, at the level set via the Super Bass Level control.
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CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G parameters. • The Wide Density parameter adjusts the compression level throughout the band, Wide Density increasing the average signal level (while reducing dynamics). The frequency deviation remains within 75 KHz. Wide Density may be adjusted from 0.0 to +12.0 dB, with steps of 0.5 dB.
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CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G here are two ways to design or customize a curve: A. From among the existing curves, identify the one closest to the desired curve, make the changes deemed appropriate (for example, raise the level of mid tones or cut out low frequencies) and save the new curve thus obtained in one of the 10 locations set aside for the user (31 through 40).
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CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE (FM and ST) E N G Once you have finished choosing all the new levels: turn the shuttle counter-clockwise until you see the ‘Get Process’ item again keep turning the shuttle until the item ‘Quit’ appears on the left press ‘Enter’.
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22 THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) 22.1 INTRODUCTION The processor comes with a intuitive and reliable software running on Windows 95, 98, NT, ME, 2000, XP platforms and specially designed for remote / direct equipment programming and control.
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.2 BIDIRECTIONAL MODE (DIRECT CONTROL) On the rear panel of the processor are two serial ports for interfacing to IBM-compatible PCs. S E R I A L 1 B I - D I R E C T I O N A L C O N N E C T I O N - D I R E C T S O F T W A R E C O N T R O L - F I R M W A R E U P G R A D E P C C O N T R O L S O F T W A R E...
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.3 MONO-DIRECTIONAL MODE (REMOTE) S E R I A L 2 g i v e n T a r g e t & G r o u p n a m e U N I D I R E C T I O N A L C O N N E C T I O N ( S A T E L L I T E , R A D I O L I N K , S T L , I S D N , E T C ) P C C O N T R O L S O F T W A R E...
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.4 INSTALLATION A) Using standard Windows procedures, access the PC REMOTE SOFTWARE folder and run the SETUP.EXE file under the Microsoft Windows ’95, ’98, ME, 2000, NT and XP operating system. B) The install program installs Pc remote Control application onto the computer's hard disk.
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.5 SOFTWARE SETUP Run the program. If it is unable to immediately establish an bidirectional connection with the processor, (as indicated by the display message ‘Remote data not Available’), a screen such as the following will appear: Click the ‘Setup’...
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G NOTE: the program will automatically attempt the connection each time you run the SETUP screen. It is now possible to set up or modify some modes regarding the software window display on the computer screen, and communications between the computer and the processor.
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.8 SAVING THE CURRENT CONFIGURATION Any operative configuration of the processor (input gain, pilot level, RDS messages, enable status of RDS services, etc.) may be saved at any time. To do so, simply press the ‘Save’...
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.10 BI-DIRECTIONAL CONNECTION MODE As explained earlier, this mode (available only on port 1 of the processor) allows both the real time display and editing of all audio levels and current settings for all parameters used by the processor. Typical application: setting the processor directly at the transmitting site, using a notebook computer, or remote control from the broadcasting or control room, via serial cable.
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.11 THE ‘TARGET NAME AND GROUP NAME’ IDENTIFIERS As explained in the introduction, in bidirectional connection mode (local) it is possible to assign each processor with a specific identification code (called the ‘Target Name’), as well as a classification group, which is useful when you wish to selectively program the processor from remote sites over a unidirectional connection (see next chapter).
THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G 22.13 UNIDIRECTIONAL CONNECTION MODE The unidirectional connection mode is used to control one or more processors from a remote site, for example over a satellite link. In this case, it will only be possible to send commands or new values for operating parameters one way, without the ability to check whether the change has taken place or the current status.
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THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE (FM and ST versions) E N G Once the remote connection (on serial port 2 of the processor) has been established, the basic screen of the control software will be as follows: The submenus available are the same ones available with the bidirectional connection, thus: The three buttons located alongside the display allow you to edit the new broadcast processing curve: select the curve from among the 40 available, using the two arrows, then confirm the choice using the rectangular button in the middle.
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23 USING THE RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) The processor includes, as an option, a complete RDS encoder, programmable by a PC connected to its Serial Port 1 (bidirectional) or Serial 2 (monodirectional). This allows you to install encoders throughout the network, including local stations, and set them using a ‘master’...
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.2 RDS SERVICES - QUICK SUMMARY The PI code consists of four hexadecimal digits (see ‘Code’ field). The first identifies the country where the program is transmitted, the second digit identifies the type of broadcaster based on coverage area. Finally, the ‘Ref’...
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.3 TA REMOTE CONTROL TROUGH OPTO INTERFACE The TA flag may be activated through a dedicated input on the OPTO INTERFACE port (the interface is available as an option). The OPTO-INPUT Port is a 9-pin female Interface (on DB-9 connector) which provides 2 optoinsulated “trigger”...
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Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G EXAMPLE N° 2 – TA activation by clean contact SPLIT OPTO INPUT (connector internal view) The external switch (clean contact) is used to shortcut pin 3 and 4 (with pin 5 and 9 tied together) Page 83...
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.4 PS (PROGRAM SERVICE NAME) PANEL Click the PS button to access the main PS message panel (Program Service Name). All mobile and fixed receivers display this message. The PS panel allows to transmit single PS messages, PS sequences as well as PS Scrolling messages.
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.5 SINGLE PS OR PS SEQUENCES The Program Service Panel allows You to easily create and broadcast sequences composed by up to 32 PS Names, of 8 characters each.. EXAMPLE 1 accordingly to the settings as in the picture here closed the PS sequence will be: RADIO / LONDON / INTERNTL / RADIO / LONDON / INTERNTL / etc.
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.6 PS IN SCROLLING MODE Alternatively to PS Sequences or fixed PS message, the PS panel allows You to enter one PS message which will scroll on the receiver display. It means, text is moved right to left across the display one OR MORE characterS at a time at the rate set by the user (TIME).
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.7 HINTS AND TIPS ABOUT DYNAMIC PS MODE When programming PS durations in Dynamic mode, two ‘gold’ rules should be taken into account. They are related to the ‘physics’ of RDS channels and are completely independent from RDS encoder architecture. WARNING: if the PS is constantly changed (as in the PS Scrolling mode), it is possible that some receivers will display a mixture of old and new PS message on the same display.
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.8 ALTERNATIVE FREQUENCIES LIST The list(s) of alternative frequencies give information on the various transmitters broadcasting the same programme in the same or adjacent reception areas, and enable receivers equipped with a memory to store the list(s), to reduce the time for switching to another transmitter.
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.9 AF METHODS A AND B There are two ways to transmit lists of alternative frequencies: Method A and Method B. In both cases the lists should include only those frequencies for the nearest transmitters and repeaters (with overlapping coverage areas).
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Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G METHOD B As mentioned earlier, Method B is used with high numbers of alternative frequencies and/or when the transmitter also has frequencies that broadcast different radio program at various times of day (splitting, local programming, etc.).
Using the RDS SECTION (FM version ONLY) E N G 23.10 HOW TO GET IT The RDS option could be pre-installed in the factory if notified when ordering the unit or it can be installed at the customer’ premise after receiving it. In the latter case, the RDS software must be activated with a proper Activation Key, uniquely determined by your unit firmware's serial number.
FIRMWARE UPGRADE E N G 24 FIRMWARE UPGRADE The processor comes from the factory with the most recent firmware installed just prior to shipping. When required, the firmware can be updated with the latest available version using standard Windows procedures. After an initialization of the device (firmware upgrade), all user presets and adjustments are erased and/or overwritten by the new factory setup! Please make a note of Yr current, customized software presets before proceeding with...
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FIRMWARE UPGRADE E N G E) Turn the processor on. ) RUNNING THE UPGRADE FILES ON THE PC G) Close all opened applications on the PC. H) Using standard Windows procedures, access the FW UPGRADE folder Double click the file associated to the desired upgrade: FM version DAP_Vxy_STDM if Yr processor features analog, bi-channel audio output (no MPX output) DAP_Vxy_STDM if Yr processor features Stereo Coder (Mpx output) without RDS coder...
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FIRMWARE UPGRADE E N G The following screen will be displayed: J) Select the PC serial port on the screen K) Click Request button. L) Make sure the Identification is correctly done (Processor Identification passed message + firmware code displayed in the right field), and click ‘UpGrade’. The upgrade will continue automatically. NOTE: the upgrade processing must not be interrupted.
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FIRMWARE UPGRADE E N G With RDS option NOT installed, the processor will display the message ‘RDS DEMO SIGNAL’ when accessing the Optional Controls/RDS Module/RDS Level menu. With the RDS option correctly installed, the processor will display the message ‘RDS SIGNAL’...
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FM version E N G 25 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FM version G E N E R A L F E A T U R E S Weight around 4.5 Kg AC Rate 230 Vac / 110 Vac - 50 / 60 Hz Dimensions 1 rack unit, 352 x 483 x 44 mm Power consumpt.
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FM version E N G M P X O U T P U T Configuration 2 BNC floating over chassis, EMI supp. Preemphasis 50 / 75 usec + 1 output for measurement or test MPX out level -40 to + 12 dBm Level control Recessed trimmer...
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - ST version E N G 26 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - ST version G E N E R A L F E A T U R E S Weight around 4.5 Kg AC Rate 230 Vac / 110 Vac - 50 / 60 Hz Dimensions 1 rack unit, 352 x 483 x 44 mm Power consumpt.
WARRANTY E N G S I G N A L P R O C E S S F I L T E R S U S E R C O N T R O L S Disco Soft Bass, Club Long Bass, Tight Sampling rate 32 kHz to 96 kHz Super Bass Type...
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