Operating manual
(Rel. 1.1)
Parrot
1 x 8 BROADCAST DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER
Via Caduti Di Sabbiuno 6/F • 40011 Anzola Emilia • Bologna • Italy +39 051 736555 • Fax. +39 051 736170
e-mail: info@axeltechnology.com
• web site: www.axeltechnology.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG
1 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS .........................................................................................................................................3
1
2 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................... 4
3 SAFETY WARNINGS ............................................................................................................................................. 5
3.1 AC MAINS VOLTAGE SETTING (220 V / 115 V) .........................................................................................6
3.2 RACK MOUNTING THE UNIT .......................................................................................................................6
3.3 REMOVING THE TOP COVER ....................................................................................................................... 7
3.4 GROUNDING .................................................................................................................................................... 7
4 EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION............................................................................................................................... 8
4.1 FRONT PANEL ................................................................................................................................................. 8
4.2 REAR PANEL.................................................................................................................................................... 9
5 CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS...................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 AUDIO INPUT................................................................................................................................................. 10
5.2 INPUT IMPEDANCE ......................................................................................................................................10
5.3 MONO / STEREO INPUT MODE...................................................................................................................11
5.4 OSCILLATOR ADJUSTMENT ...................................................................................................................... 11
5.5 AUDIO OUTPUTS........................................................................................................................................... 12
5.6 MONO / STEREO OUTPUT MODE............................................................................................................... 12
6 BLOCK DIAGRAM............................................................................................................................................... 13
7 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................14
8 WARRANTY .......................................................................................................................................................... 14
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INTRODUCTION ENG
2 INTRODUCTION
The Parrot is a high performance audio distribution amplifier with one stereo input and eight stereo outputs. It
has many applications including tv and radio studios; editing rooms or where multiple loads (transmitters,
amplifiers, recorders, etc) must be fed from a single audio source.
The Parrot features both XLR balanced and PinRca outputs for an easier connection to either professional or
consumer equipment. The outputs are individually buffered so that a short circuit occurring on one pair of
connectors (either XLR or Pin) will not affect the others. Audio input is always via XLRs.
Using internal jumper settings, the Parrot can be easily re-configured also as a 1x16 distributor for mono
source signals. Alternatively, given a stereo input, the Parrot can output both mono or stereo signals,
depending on the individual setting of each output pair.
Each balanced output stage incorporates high-current line drivers capable to always deliver optimal signals
to a number of locations even down long cable runs and with low load impedance.
Expressly designed for broadcast applications, Parrot features an hardware bypass (via relay) which
connects the Input pair to the Output 1 XLRs in case of AC power failure or whenever the unit is
unintentionally turned off. This prevents the transmission chain from any audio interruption.
The electronically balanced stereo input features individual left/right level controls with two bi-color LEDs
enabling quick recognition of input status (no audio, audio ranging between 0 and + 6 dBm or audio higher
than + 6 dBm). Each of the four output groups also incorporate left/right level controls via recessed trimmers
on the front panel.
The Parrot is very easy to install and to operate. A ‘0 dB gain’ mode can be selected for each output channel
via front panel accessible slide switches. For fine calibration of the outputs, the source signal can be
replaced by an internal 1kHz / 0 dB oscillator.
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SAFETY WARNINGS ENG
3 SAFETY WARNINGS
A correct installation and an optimum level setting are crucial for a good operating and the exploitation of all
the equipment capabilities. Please pay attention to the following notes:
• 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.
• Heed All Warnings. All warnings on the product and those listed in the operating instructions must be
adhered to.
• Heat. This product must be situated away from any heat sources such as radiators or other products
(including power amplifiers or transmitters) that produce heat.
• Power Sources. This product must be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking
label and in the installation instructions. If you are not sure of the type of power supplied to your facility,
consult your local power company. Make sure the AC main voltage corresponds to that indicated in the
technical specifications. If a different voltage (ex. 110/115 VAC) is available, open the equipment closure
and set the voltage switch on the main supply circuit, located behind the VDE socket.
• Power Cord Protection. Power supply cords must be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on
nor pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to the cords at AC wall plugs
and convenience receptacles, and at the point where the cord plugs into the product.
• Lightning. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended
and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the AC wall outlet and the audio connections. This will
prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power line surges.
• Installation. The installation must be carried on by skilled technicians.
• Cabling. Using high quality wires, well protected, and balanced connections is highly recommended.
Make sure the cable integrity.
• Equipment design. This manual images could differ a bit from the equipment actual design.
The installation and servicing instructions in this manual are for use by qualified
personnel only.
This symbol alerts you to the presence of dangerous voltage inside the closure –
voltage which may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock. Do not perform any
servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions. Refer all servicing
to qualified personnel
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SAFETY WARNINGS ENG
3.1 AC MAINS VOLTAGE SETTING (220 V / 115 V)
BE SURE THAT THE UNIT IS SET TO THE CORRECT MAINS/LINE VOLTAGE FOR
YOUR COUNTRY BEFORE PLUGGING IT INTO THE WALL OUTLET.
The actual Mains voltage is indicated on the silver label
If, for some reason, the unit is to be operated at a mains input voltage which is different to that as supplied,
you need to open the top cover and set properly the voltage change-over switch
close to the transformer (on the right hand). You also need to replace the AC main fuse (for 220/230 V AC
the fuse is rated at 630mA T; for 110 V AC voltage it is rated at 1 A T)
stuck on the right side of the Parrot closure.
which is located inside,
3.2 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 crosshead screws, as shown in the figure. Use all four screws.
Ventilation. Slots and openings in the product are provided for ventilation. They ensure reliable operation of
the product, keeping it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked nor covered during operation.
You must leave at a minimum one rack unit of
empty space above the Parrot to enhance
ventilation and to get a longer equipment life.
Install a 1U vented or blind panel to fill this space. It
is recommended that another 1RU blank panel be
installed below the unit
There should be a good ground connection between the rack and the Parrot chassis
for the same reason.
Pag. 6
SAFETY WARNINGS ENG
3.3 REMOVING THE TOP COVER
To change any jumpers or set the voltage changeover you must remove the top cover of the unit to access
the main boards. Remove all 6 screws holding the cover in place, then lift it off.
Use care when working inside the unit.
Uninsulated dangerous voltage are inside the enclosure, voltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
Always disconnect to AC Mains before removing the top cover
3.4 GROUNDING
• THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.
The chassis is always connected to mains earth to ensure your safety: check your mains wiring and earthing
before switching on.
NOTE: inside the unit, audio 0V is always DC decoupled from mains earth (ground lifted) to avoid
ground loop problems.
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4 EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
4.1 FRONT PANEL
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION ENG
1 TEST TONE
OSCILLATOR
SWITCH
2 ‘POWER ON’
LED INDICATOR
3 INPUT LEVEL
CONTROLS
4 AUDIO DETECT
5
OUTPUT LEVEL
CONTROLS
The Parrot contains an oscillator that can produce a sine wave tone
dBm for system setup ad alignment.
When TONE button is pressed (LED glowing), the sinusoidal TONE is placed on
all the outputs
signal. When released, the audio distributor returns to its previous state (normal
operation). The oscillator frequency and the injection levels can be easily adjusted
via internal trimmers (see Section 5.4)
It displays the power supply presence. If the LED is not lit, confirm that the main
power source is active, that the main switch is on and that the connector on the
cord is securely mated with the plug on the back panel.
These controls should be used to set the optimal input gain for both Left and Right
signals. A recessed switch enables the Gain adjustement.
With the switch released, the input gain factor is fixed at 0 dB (unity gain
•
factor) and can not be altered
With the switch pressed (LED glowing), the gain factor can be adjusted via
•
the separated L &R trimmers. Adjustment in the range +/- 20 dB is possible.
Bi-color LEDs enabling quick recognition of input audio level.
LED OFF Audio level below 0 dBm
LED turned GREEN Audio level ranging between 0 and + 6 dBm
LED turned RED Audio level higher than + 6 dBm
These controls should be used to set the optimal level for both Left and Right
signals on each Output group. A recessed switch enables the Gain adjustement.
With the switch released, the output gain factor is fixed at 0 dB (unity gain
•
factor) and can not be altered.
With the switch pressed (LED glowing), the output gain may be varied from
•
– 20 dB to 20 dB by adjusting the pre-set trimmers, which are accessible
through the holes in the front panel
Ref. also to the Parrot’s Block Diagram (Chapter 6).
at a 1 KHz / 0
(Out 1, Out 2, Out 3 and Out 4) by replacing the exsisting source
Pag. 8
4.2 REAR PANEL
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION ENG
ON/OFF Switch: main ON/OFF switch, the LED inside switches on/off accordingly. The power
1
supply socket (use the cord provided) has a built-in fuse drawer containing the power fuse and a
spare, both of the same value: for 220/230 V AC the fuse is rated at 630mA T; for 110 V AC voltage
it is rated at 1 A T.
XLR outputs # 2, 3 and 4. They are electronically balanced. Each output is individually buffered so
2
that a short circuit on one output will not affect the others. The output level on each output is
adjusted by the associated trimmers on the front panel (see Front Panel description). Stereo / Mono
operation can be set via Jumpers placed inside, on the rear board.
A pair of PinRca connectors provide an unbalanced, stereo repetition of the output signal appearing
3
at the XLR connectors. Each group (#1, #2,#3 and #4) of XLRs + PinRca connectors is separately
level-adjusted via the associated Gain controls on the front panel. PinRca outputs are individually
buffered so that a short circuit on one output will not affect the others.
XLR output # 1. It is electronically balanced. Each output is individually buffered so that a short
4
circuit on one output will not affect the others. The level is adjusted by the associated trimmers on
the front panel (see Front Panel description). An hardware bypass (via relay) connects the Input pair
to the Output 1 XLRs in case of AC power failure or whenever the unit is unintentionally turned off.
This prevents the transmission chain from any audio interruption.
XLR input pair (electronically balanced). They may also be used in an unbalanced configuration.
5
An hardware bypass (via relay) connects the Input pair to the Output 1 XLRs in case of AC power
failure or whenever the unit is unintentionally turned off. This prevents the transmission chain from
any audio interruption. Stereo / Mono operation can be set via Jumper. The Jumper is placed inside,
on the front board.
Pag. 9
CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS ENG
5 CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS
We suggest to use high quality wires, well protected, and balanced connections to avoid external EMD.
If ground loop problems are encountered, never disconnect the mains earth, but instead, try disconnecting
the signal screen on one end of each of the cables connecting the outputs of the Parrot to the loads. If such
measures are necessary, balanced operation is recommended.
5.1 AUDIO INPUT
The equipment features electronically balanced XLR female inputs (line level).
Pin 1 Gnd
Pin 2 Signal
Pin 3 Return
If no balanced connection is possible, please connect the cold pole (Pin 3) to the
ground (Pin 1). Factory preset input impedance is 10 kΩ. Input impedance of 600 Ω
is also available, simply setting jumpers on the rear I/O board (see next Section).
5.2 INPUT IMPEDANCE
At the delivery, input Impedance is set at 10 Kohm. The impedance may be set to 600 Ohm by moving the
jumpers located on the rear board (J2 and J3) close to the XLR input connectors, as shown in the following
figure:
J3
Input LEFT
impedance = 10 KΩ
(factory preset)
J3
Input LEFT
impedance = 600 Ω
J2
Input RIGHT
impedance = 10 KΩ
(factory preset)
J2
Input LEFT
impedance = 600 Ω
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CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS ENG
5.3 MONO / STEREO INPUT MODE
Using the Stereo input setting, both Left and Right signals are directed to their respective output paths. In
the Mono input configuration the Left input signal is replicated on the Right internal bus, while the Right
input connector is disconnected. Thus, provide the LEFT channel only. See Block Diagram - Chapter 6.
The Mono / Stereo input mode may be set by moving the jumper J18 located on the front board behind the
INPUT FIX / ADJ switcher, as shown in the following figure:
5.4 OSCILLATOR ADJUSTMENT
The oscillator frequency and the injection levels can be easily adjusted via trimmers P12 and P1, placed on
the Fron Board, close to the OSCILLATOR front switcher.
P12 regulates the frequency, while P1 regulates the level. Factory preset is 1 kHz, 0 dBm.
STEREO input MODE (default) (L ⇒ L & R ⇒ R)
MONO input MODE (L ⇒ L & R)
Pag. 11
5.5 AUDIO OUTPUTS
The equipment features balanced XLR and unbalanced PinRca analog outputs
driven by high-quality buffers and capable of withstanding even low-impedance
loads (600Ω), with levels of up to +20 dBu. In case of unbalanced connections,
connect the cold pole (Pin 3) to the ground (Pin 1) or use the PinRca unbalanced
outputs.
Pin 1 Gnd
Pin 2 Signal
Pin 3 Return
CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS ENG
An hardware bypass (via relay) connects the Input pair to the Output 1 XLRs in
case of AC power failure or whenever the unit is unintentionally turned off. This
prevents the transmission chain from any audio interruption.
5.6 MONO / STEREO OUTPUT MODE
Left and Right signals can be summed at the output stage of each output group. Independent mono/stereo
settings are provided for each group (i.e. pair of PinRca and XLR connectors). When set in MONO mode,
each output connector provides (L + R) / 2 signal (ref to the Block Diagram).
OUTPUT 1
OUTPUT 2
OUTPUT 3
OUTPUT 4
J10
J10
J12
J12
J14
J14
J16
J16
RIGHT CHANNEL
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
J11
J11
J13
J13
J15
J15
J17
J17
LEFT CHANNEL
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
STEREO MODE
MONO MODE
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6 BLOCK DIAGRAM
BLOCK DIAGRAM ENG
Pag. 13
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENG
7 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
AUDIO INPUT
Number of inputs 1, el. balanced Number of indep. output groups 4
Connectors XLR Connectors 8 XLR (el. bal) + 8 PinRca
Input impedance
Nominal Input level 0 dBm Max output level +20 dBm (with 600 Ohm load)
Max input level + 20 dBm
Input Mode Mono / Stereo (selectable) Frequency Response 20Hz to 100kHz +/- 0.1dB
CMRR > 80 dB typically at 1 kHz
THD +Noise 0.005% @ 1kHz
Power Supply 220 / 110V +/- 10 % 10VA Crosstalk < -80 dB @ 10kHz, 0 dBm out
Dimension 434x351x44mm (1 rack unit) Noise < - 80 dBm (DIN Audio)
Weight around 4 Kg Reference output tone 1 kHz, 0 dBm
600 Ω / 10K Ω (selectable)
GENERAL DATA
Nominal output level 0 dBm
Output impedance
Overall Gain Range
Output Mode
AUDIO OUTPUT
50 Ω
42 dB
Mono / Stereo (selectable for
each group)
8 WARRANTY
The manufacturer offers a 1-year ex works warranty.
Do not open the equipment. The warranty shall be voided if any of the warranty seals are broken.
The manufacturer shall not be liable for damage of any kind deriving from or in relation to incorrect use of the
product.
Pag. 14
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