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ST 1000

Cambridge Sound Management Qt Emitters, ST 1000 Installation And Operation Manual

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Page 1
Qt® Conference Room Edition
A speech protection system designed for conference rooms
Installation and Operations Guide
Page 2
page 2
Contents
Safety
Packing list
Introduction
General
Using sound masking to protect privacy of conference rooms
Full feature list
Planning the system
Sound masking guidelines
Choosing where to install emitters – what is an exposed wall?
Emitter spacing and ceiling height
Emitter layout – normal installation – two rows of emitters
Emitter layout – when to use up to 4 rows of emitters
Controller and privacy sign layout
Installation
Pre-wiring
Installing qt emitters
Custom cabling guidelines
Installing the controller and privacy signs
System set-up and calibration
Acoustic calibration
System conguration via the front pane
User mode
Set-up mode
System acoustic calibration
Special installation cases
Troubleshooting
Warranty
Zone destination records
Hole cut guide for ush mount box
Hole cut guide for privacy sign
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CONTENTS
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SAFETY
Safety
Important Safety Instructions:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water. Indoor use only.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including ampliers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety 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 wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t
into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
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Packing List
The package includes:
▪ 1 Wall-mounted ST 1000 control module
▪ 1 4-gang adaptor plate for control module (used for 3-gang EU/UK boxes)
▪ 2 Automatically lighted privacy signs
▪ 2 1-gang adaptor plate for privacy signs
▪ 1 Power supply
▪ 8 Qt Emitters
▪ 7 16 ft audio cables
▪ 1 50 ft homerun audio cable
▪ 2 50 ft two-conductor cables for privacy signs
▪ 1 Hole saw
▪ 4 Privacy sign 6/32” x 3/8” screws
▪ 8 Wall plate adapter 6/32” x 3/8” screws
▪ 4 Control module back panel 6/32” x 5/8” screws
PACKING LIST
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page 5
Introduction
General
Using Sound Masking to Protect Privacy of Conference Rooms
The Qt Conference Room Edition (QtCRE) from Cambridge Sound Management is a very cost­effective solution to provide condential speech privacy for conference rooms, executive ofces and
suites, boardrooms and other sensitive spaces, to the immediate areas surrounding such spaces. For convenience we may refer to all such rooms as conference rooms although that may not be their actual use. The system comprises sound masking emitters and a lighted privacy sign placed immediately outside such sensitive room indicating when the system is operational, and a QtCRE controller and identical privacy sign inside the room. The system does not place sound masking emitters inside the sensitive space itself.
The acoustical attenuation performance of walls and other construction surrounding conference
rooms can vary widely. Even if high quality materials with high STC (sound transmission class) ratings
are installed with the intent of providing adequate sound attenuation, the expected result may not
be achieved if the surrounding space is sufciently quiet. There may be sound leaks under doors
or an HVAC serves as a “sound tubes” to adjacent spaces. Acoustical ceilings may be intended to provide good sound absorption but these same lightweight tiles usually allow substantial speech
sound to transmit through them to plenums above and back down to ofces adjacent the conference
room. Return air grills into plenums common to both the conference room and exterior spaces are a frequent privacy issue. Background noise from a high quality building HVAC system may be so low
that it provides no signicant masking of speech sound escaping the conference room. The common use of modern energy-efcient variable air volume HVAC systems can further exacerbate this problem.
Remedial work to the construction or HVAC system to improve privacy can be very costly, and even then may not achieve satisfactory results. On the other hand a dedicated electronic sound masking
system around the conference room is cost effective and will provide condential privacy in almost all
applications.
A conference room speech privacy protection system differs from typical ofce-wide sound masking
system in three important ways.
1. The sound masking is applied only to a select small area – the exposed area around the perimeter of
the conference room.
2. Rather than operating 24/7 the QtCRE sound masking optionally may be turned on and off by users.
3. The resulting speech privacy protection status is indicated in the conference room and the entrance
to it by lighted signs.
The QtCRE sound masking levels can be calibrated using Cambridge Sound Management’s Qt100
Conguration iPad app, iMic microphone, and Bluetooth dongle (used to connect the iPad to the QtCRE unit) or by a calibrated sound level meter with octave band lter set or analyzer. If using iPad app, set levels directly below rst row of emitters
INTRODUCTION
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Full Feature List
▪ Comes standard with two automatically lighted privacy signs and cables, wall-mounted control
module (controller) and power supply, mounting brackets, 8 emitters, seven 16 ft. (4.8m) audio cables, 50 ft. (15.2m) homerun audio cable, and hole saw
▪ Sound masking level adjustable in ½ dB steps
▪ Out of the box support for conference rooms with up to 40 ft. (12m) of exposed walls
▪ Optional add-on emitters for larger areas
▪ Simplied software for easy customer operation
▪ More advanced functions accessible by installer
▪ Premium, minimalist design style to t in with other conference room AV equipment
▪ Smooth ramp up and down sound masking level function to inhibit disruption outside the
conference room
▪ Controllable from in-room Crestron and AMX control systems via contact closure; also offers 5V
trigger output
▪ Straightforward, low-impact installation
▪ Can be left on 24/7 or turned on as needed during condential meetings
▪ Less than 7 watts power consumption
▪ Power supply compatible with 100V to 240V AC power mains.
INTRODUCTION
Alternatively, levels may be set using the standard settings chart later in the manual, which will work ne
for most installations.
The QtCRE control module supports one zone of sound masking with 2 cable homeruns. Each run
supports up to 60 emitters. The maximum coverage area for the QtCRE is 12,000 sq. ft. (1,115 m2)
although typical conference room speech privacy installations will not require coverage for such a large area.
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PLANNING THE SYSTEM
Planning the System
Sound Masking Guidelines
Choosing where to install emitters – what is an exposed wall?
This manual covers system installation of the controller, privacy signs and emitters, as well as masking level setting and system maintenance. This introduction section discusses guidelines to ensure effective sound masking coverage.
Generally the layout and calibration of emitters outside a conference room follow the standards for
an open ofce design. It is important that the masking volume be set correctly to achieve the full
effectiveness of the system. If volume levels are set too low, speech privacy for the conference room
occupants will be reduced and people outside the conference room may nd audio leakage to be
more distracting. If volume levels are set too high, the masking sound itself could become a source of distraction.
In a given open ofce design, including ceiling height, ceiling material and workstation panel height, we can dene the masking volume required to achieve “normal acoustic privacy,” between ofces (i.e., normal voices are audible but not easily understood). In an open ofce environment, the target background sound level is typically in the 45–48 dBA range, as measured 3 - 4 ft. (0.9 m) above oor
level.ft
The goal of the system is to lower the listener’s speech-to-masking noise ratio to the point that people outside cannot understand any speech originating in the conference room, even from persons using a
raised voice. Technically this is known as Condential Privacy or having an Articulation Index (AI) of 0.05 or below and is comparable to a Speech Transmission Index (STI) of 0.12 or below.
In order to achieve this goal, the emitters should be installed in rows parallel to all exposed walls of the
conference room, that is, along any wall party (common) to both the conference room and any adjacent ofce spaces, including open plan or private enclosed ofces, corridors, storage or utility rooms, etc.
Ceiling Height
8’ (2.4 meters)
10’ (3 meters)
12’ (3.6 meters)
13 - 16
15 - 18
16 - 19
45 - 48 dBA
45 - 48 dBA
45 - 48 dBA
Volume Level Intended Result (at listener ear level)
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PLANNING THE SYSTEM
Emitter spacing and ceiling height
Spacing between emitters generally should follow the same rules as for other CSM direct eld masking systems, i.e. should be not less than the ceiling height above the nished oor. The English dimensions are based on America drop ceiling tile sizes (24x24”, 24x48”). The metric dimensions are based on international tile sizes (300x300mm).
Ceiling Height
Ceiling heights less than 10 ft. (2.4m)
Ceiling height is 10 up to 12 ft. (3m)
Ceiling heights 12 ft. and above (3.6m)
8 ft. spacing (2.4m)
10 ft. spacing (3m)
12 ft. spacing (3.6m)
Spacing
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PLANNING THE SYSTEM
Emitter layout – Normal installation – two rows of emitters
Place the rst row adjacent any party wall between the conference room and exterior spaces at ½ the height of the ceiling or less, e.g. for a 10 ft. (3m) ceiling place the rst row no more than 4 or 5 ft. (1.2 to
1.5m) (from the wall. Continue both rows one spacing beyond both ends of party walls. However, for party walls that are adjacent a narrow corridor or room one row on or near the center is sufcient.
Example: Conference room with one exposed wall – two rows of emitters.
Example: Conference room with two exposed walls and an open area extending away from the area in one direction. One row of emitters
in side cubicle area.
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PLANNING THE SYSTEM
Example: Installation with 3 rows of emitters
Emitter layout – When to use up to 4 rows of emitters
Consider using 4 rather than 2 rows of emitters in the conditions described below. Four rows may
not be required if no speech is intelligible beyond the rst two rows. To test for this have a colleague
go into the conference room, close all doors, and read some material with raised voice as though
addressing a conference. Listen in the area beyond the rst two rows of emitters while the masking system is operating at its set level. The test should be done after all room nishes and furniture are in
place and when there are no atypical noise sources operating near the masking coverage area. The
test should be done when the ofce is unoccupied so that activity noise is absent. If the speech is not intelligible under these conditions two rows are sufcient.
1. Conference rooms with speech reinforcement or other amplied sound such as computer playback
of speech
2. No plenum barrier above the conference room party wall
3. Open ceiling shared by conference room and protected areas
4. Glass or demountable partition party walls
5. Unusually quiet exterior spaces (less than 38 dBA ambient)
6. Highly sound reective (reverberant) spaces
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PLANNING THE SYSTEM
Controller and privacy sign layout
Options on how to control the system
It is important to understand how the system will be used and controlled to decide the location of the controller and privacy signs.
The controller unit is self-contained and can be operated by the end-user directly from the front panel. The set-up features are hidden from the end user to prevent accidental changes.
The signs indicate that the system is fully on only when lit steadily. They blink during ramping on and off
(the gentle increase or decrease of sound level).
Optionally the system can also be controlled via contact closure (such as by an automation control
system). In this case the controller should be placed out of the way, such as in a closet or IT closet, to
reduce any confusion about the active control point. The system also features a nominal 5V trigger out
for status conrmation to a control system.
An external contact closure can also be used to allow control from a remote switch such as a light switch
or single-pole, single-throw (SPST) low voltage switch.
In an operating scenario in which contact closure is used, emergency cutoff can only be achieved if the low level is MUTE and CC ramp down time is 0.
Optionally the system may be installed similar to standard sound masking (which is normally on 24/7),
with the controller visible or hidden.
Placing the controller:
▪ In a place easy to reach for occupants of the room, such as near light switches near the room
entrance, or at a convenient place accessible during presentations.
▪ Can be visible or hidden, but remember people may not know how or where to operate it if its
completely out of sight.
Placing the privacy signs:
▪ Two privacy signs are provided, one for the room occupants and the other for people outside the
room. Typically one sign is mounted inside the conference room to alert the occupants to status and the other is mounted outside conference room, adjacent to the main door.
▪ Use of both signs is not required or both may be installed inside or outside the room. Coordinate
with Owner.
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INSTALLATION
Installation
Pre-wiring
Homerun
The 50’ CAT distribution line supplied with the base kit should be sufcient as the
homerun for almost all installations. It may be replaced by a longer CAT cable
to the rst emitter without excessive loss or impact privacy signal level difference between the rst and last emitters on the line. Theoretically a CAT coupler and
additional cable could be used rather than a longer homerun but this is not the preferred method due to the coupler most likely being located in an inaccessible and/or undocumented location, possibly complicating future servicing.
Emitter cable (interconnects) conguration
The interconnects should be connected the same as in a conventional CSM Qt masking system, i.e. in a series serpentine layout. This will assure that adjacent emitters are on different channels to minimize any phase interference issues. CSM’s Quiet Technology uses four distinct non-correlated sounds that repeat every fourth emitter
automatically. The homerun from the controller to the rst emitter may be concealed in a wall stud
space.
How CSM emitter cabling works – homeruns and daisy chaining
Emitters on each line are daisy-chained in series during installation. Each emitter has passive internal logic which rolls over its input channel to a different channel at its output port. Thus every fourth emitter
is actually operated in parallel with the rst.
Four Channel Distribution
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INSTALLATION
Power supply
In most cases the 24v power supply will need to be located remotely, with a cable run from the power supply to the controller. In some cases a wall plate such as the Vanco 120614X permits in-wall running of the power wire to an AC plug on the exterior of the wall.
The power supply wire may be extended using appropriate cable and connectors. The cable should be UL rated and plenum rated if routed through any plenum space.
Audio Input
Optionally the QtCRE includes an audio input usable for music or paging. The input is fully functional regardless of front panel or contact closure control. Therefore, the system may be used for music or paging even when masking is muted or off.
Balanced Audio Input: (Most often, but not always characteristic of paging
systems.) Connect signal wires to + and - at the input. Connect the shield to
GND at the audio source.
Unbalanced Audio Input: (Typical of music systems.)
▪ Mono Signals: Connect the mono signal wire to both L and R (split
the wire) on the block. Connect the ground wire to GND.
▪ Stereo Signals: Connect the respective signal wires to L and R on the
block. Connect the ground wire to GND.
Contact closure input
This terminal can be used either for remote triggering by a Crestron, AMX, or other control system. In either case, the contract closure takes priority over the front panel control settings. Contact closure ramp speed can be set separately from front panel control ramp speed.
Trigger output
The trigger output provides nominally 5VDC when the system is operating at Normal level, for use in triggering other devices or to provide an acknowledgment signal back to an external automation system like a Crestron. Note that upon initiation of a downward ramp event, deactivation of the trigger signal will lag the completion of the downward ramp by several seconds in addition to the ramp down
time parameter congured on the ST1000 control module. During a ramp-up to Normal operating level
event, the full and consistent activation of the trigger voltage may not be complete until the Normal operating level is reached. Control system programs should be written to anticipate and accommodate this behavior.
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page 14
USB connection
(special purpose
see page 14)
Sign is active
USB connection in use
INSTALLATION
Note that the small switch on the side of the controller must be set to the “up” position (closer to the
top of the case) for the lights to work. The “down” setting enables the external USB jack, used for rmware updates or for the optional Bluetooth dongle supplied with the Qt100 iPad app.
Connection to privacy signs
Run a separate cable from the controller mounting location to each lighting location. Do not daisy chain
signs as this may cause the lights to be of different brightness. Two 50 ft. (15.2m) plenum rated cables are
provided with the kit.
Sign 1 +
GND -
Sign 2 +
GND -
Control +
GND -
Note: Wiring nomenclature is located under the removable terminal block connector.
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INSTALLATION
Installing Qt Emitters
Important Considerations:
▪ Each run has a maximum of 60 emitters!
▪ Each run supports a maximum cable length of 1000 ft.
▪ Each home run cable attached to the control module should be labeled by Zone # and Run #.
Adding a logical name (e.g. Marketing, Private Ofces) is suggested. In addition, ll out “Zone
Destination Record” at the end of this Guide.
▪ The module has two identical outputs, Run 1 and Run 2. All emitters on Run 1 and Run 2 are
controlled equally.
▪ Each job-made cable should be manufactured according to ANSI/TIA/EIA Standard 568-B. See
custom cabling guidelines on page 16.
▪ Before installation, job-made cables should be tested with a LAN cable tester.
Installation:
1. Set the masking output level to the maximum level of 30.
2. Refer to the emitter layout and wiring diagram provided by the dealer for cable run connections.
3. Run home run cables from control module to the location of the rst emitter for all runs.
4. Gather all ceiling tiles (per layout drawing) that are to receive emitters. Use the supplied hole saw
to cut holes in designated tiles. Cut all tiles from the front. (Different types of emitter housings are
available to attach in areas where there are no suspended ceiling tiles.)
5. Push the emitter through the front of the hole in tile and secure it by pushing down and twisting the
locking ring at the back of the emitter.
6. Connect a run cable from the specied OUTPUT jack on the module to the INPUT jack of the rst
emitter. Listen to each emitter as it is connected. If you cannot hear its “whooshing” sound: a. Try a different emitter. b. Test all four previous cables for continuity and shorts. Repair any faulty cables.
c. If a short is detected, the masking will shut off until the short is physically xed. The error on the
control module will remain until the error is cleared. (see Clearing Error Codes, page 31) Set the masking output level to the maximum level of 30.
7. Connect the next OUTPUT cable to the emitter OUTPUT jack.
Note:
▪ The “tombstone” hook on the back of each emitter is next to the INPUT jack.
This can help you nd the INPUT jack by touch.
▪ To adjust for unexpected obstacles such as sprinkler heads, each emitter may
be moved up to 2 ft. (one tile or 0.6 m) in any direction, if necessary.
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INSTALLATION
8. Run the cable to next designated tile specied on emitter layout and wiring diagram. Tie cables up
to structure or suspend from deck as required by local building code.
9. On the next emitter, connect this cable to the INPUT jack.
10. Repeat Steps 4 through 9 for the remaining emitters on the home run.
Set sound masking volume levels using either the front panel controls.
DO NOT put the input cable into the output port of the emitter. If sound is only heard by putting the
cable in the output, there is a problem earlier in the cable run. Be sure to x any problems and hear the
“whooshing” sound before installing the next emitter.
The input jack of each emitter bears this symbol and is located near the safety tie off
The output jack of each emitter bears this symbol
Note:
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INSTALLATION
Custom Cabling Guidelines
Installing the controller and privacy signs
Important Considerations:
1. Use solid conductor 24 AWG CAT cable that meets local code requirements.
2. If the system is installed in a return air plenum, the cable must be plenum rated.
3. Shielding is not required. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable is acceptable.
4. Snagless boots are not required.
5. RJ-45 plugs must use the “bent 3-tine” RJ 45 plugs intended for use with solid core CAT wire. Three
tine plugs can be purchased at a hardware store and from most CAT cable suppliers. DO NOT USE the “aligned two-tine” type intended for stranded wire, as they provide improper contact and may yield intermittent system operation. The diagram below shows the cross section view of both types.
6. Field test each cable after fabrication with the RJ-45 connectors (before nal installation), using
a standard network LAN cable tester, to check for continuity, shorts, and 1:1 (straight through)
connection.
Installation of the controller requires separating the front panel from the rear of the case – simply done
by pulling one from the other. All installation options require attaching the case rear rst, then getting
cables attached to the controller, then snapping the controller into place.
Controller Mounting Options
▪ Best practices: If installing the controller on a wall known to have sound transmission issues into an
adjacent space, it is recommended to use surface mounting. Be careful to seal airtight any cabling holes to minimize sound transmission. Avoid back-to-back mounting of electrical or other wall components within a single stud space.
▪ Best practices: On walls separating the conference room from an area with masking, don’t use
gang boxes with big holes as these are prone to passing sound. Whenever feasible, don’t install the box on a wall requiring masking protection as it may exacerbate sound transmission problems
The controller may be mounted in several ways:
CORRECT
RJ-45 connector
with bent type
INCORRECT
RJ-45 connector with aligned type
Page 18
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INSTALLATION
Flush mount with supplied box
Cut hole in wall to dimensions x by x (use template) and run cables to this hole. After the cables have been run to the hole in the wall, place the ush mount box in the wall (make sure up is actually up) and
snap the four clips that clamp to the back side of the drywall surface. Then attach the case rear to the wall adapter. During installation if may be convenient to attach the wires to the tie-off point in the back of the box to prevent the wires from falling back into the wall.
Controller
Case back panel
Flush mount box
3
3
/4” x 7 1/2” (95 x 190mm)
hole in wall
(See template on page 35)
4x control module back panel screws
Page 19
page 19
Surface mount on a suitable 4-gang electrical box (3-gang using EU/UK hardware)
4-gang electrical box (pre-installed or retrotted) – after the cables have been run to the box, use four
supplied screws to attach the wall plate adapter. (In the case of EU 3-gang boxes, use M3 or M3.5 screws
as needed – these are not included.) Then attach the system back to the wall adapter.
Note: The wall plate adaptor is ABS plastic and may be painted to match wall color. Use a standard
spray primer (Krylon) before painting.
INSTALLATION
Wall plate adapter
4-gang NEMA wall box
or low voltage clip
(not included)
Wall hole
8x wall plate
adapter screws
Controller
Case back
panel
4x control module back panel screws
Wall hole
Wall plate adapter
3-gang EU/UK wall box
(not included)
6 x screw
(not included)
Controller
Case back panel
4 x #6
self-threading
screw
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page 20
INSTALLATION
Surface mount directly to the wall
Surface or panel mount of back plate – either with cables through hole (if cables can be run through the
wall) or out the side to end up on the surface of the wall or mounting point. Mark holes with template,
open up larger holes for cables if desired, run cables, attach back plate.
The wires may be run out the back of the case rear, or to the sides using the available openings.
Consult a knowledgeable person about the best type of hardware to attach to your wall surface.
Installing the controller to the back plate.
After all cables have been attached, snap the controller in place.
After installation, the controller can be removed by pulling it, and it will snap away from its back, exposing the cabling and also giving access to the mounting points.
Controller
Wall screws (not included)
Approximate hole locations (use case back as template)
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page 21
INSTALLATION
Mounting options for the privacy signs
There are several options for mounting the privacy signs. These options allow for mounting on a variety of wall surfaces, including glass.
1-gang box (North American NEMA or UK/EU types)
If using a 1-gang box, retrot or pre-installed, rst run cable to the box. Then mount the plate. Then
attach the cable. Then slide the sign down on the plate to secure it.
To remove, slide the light panel up and off the metal bracket.
Privacy sign
2x privacy
sign screws
Wall plate
1 gang NEMA wall
box or low voltage clip
(not included)
Wall hole
Privacy sign
2x privacy
sign screws
Wall plate
1 gang EU/UK wall box
(not included)
Wall hole
Page 22
page 22
Surface mount (double-sided tape), with cabling running through wall or on surface of wall.
If running a cable through the wall, get this into position rst. Note that the exit point for the cable on
the back of the sign is centered across the bottom
Connect the cable using the push terminals. Peel the double sided tape and attach the panel.
REMEMBER TO CHECK ALL CONNECTIONS AND CONFIRM PRIVACY SIGN OPERATION BEFORE ATTACHING TO WALL
INSTALLATION
Privacy sign
Self adhesive pad
Hole in wall for wire
(see template on page 37)
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INSTALLATION
Mounting on glass plus using “hider” plate for other side of glass surface
Best practices – it’s best to use self-adhesive tape, NOT a 1-gang box (because of sound transmission
issues).
If mounting the signs to either side of the same wall, don’t locate the boxes closer than 2 ft. from each other.
Caution: The self-adhesive pads are very strong - take care in placing as moving after placement may be difcult. Also note, special care may be required if mounting to glass with an adhesive lm coating.
Note: The hider plate is ABS plastic and may be painted to a desired color if needed. Use a standard
spray primer (Krylon) before painting.
Privacy sign
Self-adhesive pads
Wire
Glass surface
Hider plate
Self-adhesive pads
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page 24
SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
System Set-Up And Calibration
Acoustic calibration
Direct Field technology minimizes the need for equalization or measurements during system setup.
Sensitivity and efciency of the emitter array is known and listeners are typically in the direct eld of
emitters without an intervening acoustical ceiling which would change the effective output level and
frequency response of the system. In most cases the room acoustics of ofces have minimal effect
on either. Therefore it is possible to preset system equalization at the factory and make volume level control settings by the installer dependent only on user and project requirements.
If a calibrated sound level meter or CSM’s iPad app with a Studio Six calibrated microphone is available we suggest setting level controls initially for a space averaged level of approximately 45 - 48 dBA. However, it is also recommended that the masking level reduced until listeners in the spaces adjacent the protected room are unable to understand any speech originating in the room from a male and a female talker speaking with raised voice. Speech intelligibility should be checked by a listener with good hearing all along the party wall, within a few inches, and in any areas beyond the emitter coverage area. Once that level is determined a 3 dBA increase in masking level is recommended as an operating safety margin. It is not possible to specify an operating level in advance as the sound isolation of the room construction has an important effect on the speech privacy and cannot be known accurately
in advance. Even though the laboratory ratings of sound transmission class (STC) for the various components may be known, the actual performance in the eld (Field STC) typically varies greatly due
to the construction practices employed. The goal is to set the masking level as low as possible while
still achieving Condential privacy throughout the spaces adjacent to the protected room. This will minimize annoyance to ofce staff outside the protected room.
If using iPad app, set levels directly below rst row of emitters.
A similar setup procedure without a calibrated meter is also possible.
Ceiling Height
8’ (2.4 meters)
10’ (3 meters)
12’ (3.6 meters)
13 - 16
15 - 18
16 - 19
45 - 48 dBA
45 - 48 dBA
45 - 48 dBA
Volume Level Intended Result (at listener ear level)
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
System Conguration via the Front Panel
After the Qt CRE is mounted and the emitters have been tested, it is time to congure the Qt CRE for
general operation. The front panel display shows system information and allows for
adjustment of the masking and the auxiliary audio input levels.
The Qt CRE controller has two operating Modes:
▪ User Mode – Simple controls, no adjustment or set-up access.
▪ Set-up Mode – Installer set-up adjustments. Accessible only by special key press (holding down
the OFF and ON buttons for 5 seconds).
System Information
Initial display of the front panel, shown below, shows the software version and system status.
Followed by…
The system always boots up into User Mode, and will always return to the last used setting on power up
(on/off/low/high)
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
User Mode
User Mode gives minimal functionality and simple intuitive display read-outs.
Buttons
▪ NORMAL Correct level for speech privacy in the conference room ▪ LOW Optional lower level masking
Note: does not give full privacy
▪ ON Turns system on to last used level (normal or low) ▪ OFF Mutes masking
In all cases the level ramps to the new level over an installer settable time span (“ramp time” in seconds)
While ramping the displayed characters and the panel lights blink.
After ramp, masking is played at NORMAL or LOW level that was set during installation
Note: If during set-up the installer has turned on “Disable User Control,” then the buttons will be locked – the sound masking will be on and will not be adjustable. The display will say:
Please contact the system administrator to unlock the system, if needed.
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
Set-Up Mode
Changing from User Mode to Set-Up Mode: Hold down the ON and OFF buttons (left and right) for 5 seconds, then the display will blink three times (500ms on / 500ms off, etc.)
In set-up mode information and settings can be accessed by pushing the right (ON) and left (OFF) buttons. Settings can be adjusted by pushing the top (NORMAL) and bottom (LOW) buttons.
Each press of the ON button advances the display to the next item.
Setting
General info
Normal Masking Level
Low Masking Level
Input A level
Ramp up speed (seconds)
Ramp down speed (seconds)
Contact closure ramp up speed (seconds)
Contact closure ramp down speed (seconds)
Disable User Control
Loop to start of list
default value is 18
default value is 8
default value is 15
default value is 30 seconds
default value is 5 seconds
default value is 30 seconds
default value is 0 seconds
default is OFF
range up to 30
range up to current Normal Masking Level setting
range up to 30
range 0 to 120 seconds
range 0 to 120 seconds
range 0 to 120 seconds
range 0 to 120 seconds
OFF or ON – enables or disables the front panel controls – if “ON” is selected, then sound masking runs all the time
Default value Options
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
Exiting Set-Up mode to return to User Mode: Hold down the ON and OFF buttons (left and right) for 5
seconds, then the display will blink three times.
Commissioning ramp
With traditional sound masking systems, a commission process is use that ramps up the sound masking over several weeks’ time. In the case of the Qt CRE system, because sound masking is user-initiated at the time of using the conference room, no commissioning ramp is used.
Contact closure
Contact closure may be used for remote control by an automation system, or purely as a trigger for
ducking an emergency notication.
Contact closure, when triggered (contacts closed) changes from current operating level (whether OFF, Low, or Normal) to Low level. In the case of remote control by an automation system, this Low level may be a more comfortable setting than an actual change to silence (full off) - this is at the discretion of the installer. Typically for ducking emergency notication, however, the Low level should be set to “MUTE.”
Contact closure has its own settable ramp up and down speed. Default ramp down will be instantaneous
as this matches expectations for ducking emergency notication. Ramp up will default to 5 seconds
which provides a more gentle recovery.
Contact closure overrides selections from the front panel, and the keypad is locked at this time. Contact closure when released returns the unit to Normal level.
Paging / music input
Input A will be ON regardless of masking level or contact closure setting. (Meaning paging – if used –
would work even if masking is off).
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
System acoustic calibration
Special installation cases
Setting the masking volumes can be approached in one of three ways:
Best:
The Qt system has a companion iPad app that takes acoustic measurements and relays the results to
the control module via Bluetooth to set the appropriate masking sound level. See Qt CRE Conguration
App Manual.
Good:
If a sound level meter is available it is recommended that initially the control module’s masking volume be adjusted up or down to achieve the values below. If the meter has a speed setting, set it to “Slow.” Weighting should be set to “A.”Peak readings should be ignored, the appropriate value is the RMS or “eyeball” average level.
37-40 dB in the 2 kHz octave or 45-48 dBA, measured 3-4 ft. (0.9 m) above oor level and averaged
spatially.
Otherwise:
If a calibrated sound level meter is not available, the recommended levels are likely to be achieved in
most ofce environments by setting the control module’s masking volumes as follows:
13-16, for 8 ft. (2.4 m) ceilings
15-18, for 10 ft. (3 m) ceilings
17-20, for 12 ft. (3.6 m) ceilings
Masking volumes must be set sufciently high to achieve Condential speech privacy but not so high
that the masking sound becomes obtrusive. Settings within the above ranges typically accommodate
both objectives. As a general rule, use the high end of the range but base nal settings on site
conditions and customer preferences.
1. When to leave sound masking on continuously
There are cases where leaving the masking on continuously will minimize awareness of its operation. If the masking level in the emitter-covered area needed to adequately mask speech from the conference room into adjacent space is determined to be below 40 dBA we suggest leaving it on 24/7. This normally will be feasible only with very good sound isolating construction between the
conference room and adjoining spaces. Likewise, if a separate ofce-wide masking system is already in place and the QtCRE is intended merely to provide an extra margin of condentiality around the
sensitive space it can normally be left on continuously.
2. Adjacent conference rooms
If adjacent conference rooms are separated solely by sufciently poor sound isolating construction,
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
e.g. lightweight “accordion” doors or those with poor or no seals at the top and bottom or low quality lightweight or sound “leaky” demountable walls, it may not be feasible to obtain adequate privacy between them whether or not sound masking is installed around their perimeter. The solution in these cases is to upgrade the party construction, not to add sound masking within or outside the rooms. If a listener can understand speech easily in one room from a strong voiced
talker in the other with no masking, it is a good indication that condential speech probably will
not be attainable between the two rooms. However, in some cases involving only small conference rooms separated by at least fair isolating construction, sound masking within the rooms may provide an adequate solution. Other markers for poor isolating construction are low density glass
ber acoustical ceilings within the rooms, especially if their party walls don’t extend completely to
the deck above or if there is no other plenum barrier above the party wall, and air return plenums common to both rooms. Another is unlined inside air ducts serving both rooms which act as “speaking” tubes. Ducts with exterior lining only will still act as speaking tubes since speech sound is transmitted through the interior of the ducts, not along the exterior.
3. Conference rooms with open walls – conference areas
It is not feasible to assure condential privacy in an open plan ofce if a source room where speech
originates has open or partial height walls. The best that should be expected is Normal privacy, meaning freedom from distraction and that conversations still may be overheard by an intentional eavesdropper.
4. Adjacent private ofces
In cases where masking is applied to a private ofce near a conference room, it may be appropriate to keep the same sound masking levels in that ofce. However, if lower levels are required, use the level trim settings on the back of the emitters in that ofce – typically the -6 dB setting would be
used. Check to make sure the lower level is not compromising the privacy of the conference room.
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
Troubleshooting
Privacy signs do not illuminate
1. Check wiring polarity
2. Note that the small switch on the side of the controller must be set to the “up” position (closer to
the top of the case) for the lights to work. The “down” setting enables the external USB jack, used for rmware updates or for the optional Bluetooth dongle supplied the Qt100 iPad app.
System commissioning with slow ramping is not possible
With traditional sound masking systems, a commission process is use that ramps up the sound masking over several weeks’ time. In the case of the Qt CRE system, because sound masking is user-initiated at the time of using the conference room, no commissioning ramp is used. Note that commission ramp is not possible from the Qt CRE calibration app, even though the option is resented as possible in the app user interface.
Error Codes and Clear Error
System errors are shown on the control module front panel display. If an error occurs, the message
“Status: Error” will be displayed. To determine the cause of the error, press NEXT (right arrow button), to
display the error code.
USB connection
(special purpose
see page 14)
Sign is active
USB connection in use
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SYSTEM SET-UP AND CALIBRATION
Post Installation Handoff
Privacy signs do not illuminate
Perform a nal walkthrough to satisfy all aspects of the
system performance:
1. Fill out the settings record.
2. Store guide with completed settings record near the control module. If there is a hard module
failure, the recorded values can be used to recongure the system. System settings are retained after
a power outage.
If you need assistance installing or commissioning this Qt CRE sound masking system, please contact CSM support at:
1.800.219.8199 (Toll free within US & Canada) support@csmqt.com
+1.617.349.3779 (Outside US & Canada) www.csmqt.com/support
Error Codes
If one or more errors exist in the sound masking system, an eight digit error code is displayed on the
LCD display (scroll forward to the “Error” screen). The error state is indicated by an eight digit code of
the form:
Where a number other than “0” indicates an error. Examples
Error: 0_000001 Short sensed in the wiring of the zone
Error: 0_000004 Emitter not working
Error: 2_000000 Over temperature
Error: 4_000000 Intermittent fault
Error: 8_000000 Contact the manufacturer
Clearing Error Codes
To clear an error that is currently shown on the display:
1. Press the right arrow button on the front panel to see the error code
2. Press the up arrow to clear the error code
3. If the error still persists, the problem has not been resolved
4. If you are not sure how to resolve the problem, contact support@csmqt.com
Error: 0_000000
Error Code for Zone 1
Reserved
Error Code for Control Module
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WARRANTY
Warranty
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Modications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.
Warranty Coverage — Qt® Emitters
Cambridge Sound Management, Inc. (the “warrantor”) will, for a period of ve (5) years, starting with the date of purchase, warrant that the
Qt® Emitters (the “speakers”) will be free of defects in materials and workmanship that interfere with proper operation as a sound masking,
paging and music speaker system. During that period, the warrantor will, at its option, either (a) repair the speaker, or (b) replace the
speaker. The decision to repair or replace will be made by the warrantor.
Warranty Coverage — ST 1000 control unit
The warrantor will, for a period of ve (5) years, starting with the date of purchase, warrant that the Qt control unit (the “system”) will be
free of defects in materials and workmanship that interfere with its proper operation as a sound masking, paging and music distribution
control system. During that period, the warrantor will, at its option, either (a) repair the system, with new or refurbished parts, or (b) replace
the system with a new or refurbished system of equal functionality at no charge. The decision to repair or replace will be made by the warrantor.
All software installed in the Qt system is warranted to substantially conform to its published specications. In no event does the warrantor
warrant that the software is error free or that the customer will be able to operate the software without problems or interruptions. The
warrantor will, from time to time, make available software bug xes. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to download and install these software modications.
Except for the forgoing, all software and software upgrades are provided AS IS.
The following terms apply to all These warranty terms are extended only to the original purchaser of a new product. A purchase order or other proof of the original purchase date and purchaser is required for warranty service.
Obtaining warranty repairs:
Please access and review online help resources for the product before requesting warranty service. If the product is still not functioning properly after making use of these resources, please contact Cambridge Sound Management for a return authorization number. All returns are to be prepaid. The warrantor will pay return surface freight within the continental United States on warranty repairs. All customs and freight charges in excess of surface freight within the United States will be born by the purchaser.
Warranty Limits and Exclusions This warranty ONLY COVERS failures due to defects in materials or workmanship, and DOES NOT COVER normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER USE OF THE SYSTEM WITH ANY OTHER SPEAKER OR EMITTER MANUFACTURED BY ANY ENTITY, ORGANIZATION OR COMPANY OTHER THAN CAMBRIDGE SOUND MANAGEMENT, INC. OR USE OF THE SYSTEM FOR ANY PURPOSE OTHER THAN SOUND MASKING AND/OR PAGING AND/OR MUSIC DISTRIBUTION. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THE USE OF ANYTHING OTHER THAN CAT-3 OR EQUIVALENT, 24 GAGE CABLING. The warranty ALSO DOES NOT COVER damages that occurred in shipment, failures that are caused by products not supplied by the warrantor (e.g.,
replacement power supplies) or failures that result from accidents, misuse, abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication, alteration of any
sort, installation, use as a system driver during speaker installation, set-up adjustments, misadjustment of controls, improper maintenance,
power line surge, lightning damage, power surges, modication, rental use, service by anyone other than the warrantor or damage that is
attributable to acts of God.
THERE ARE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES EXCEPT AS LISTED UNDER “WARRANTY COVERAGE.” THE WARRANTOR IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF
ANY BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. As an example, this specically excludes damages for lost time, lost use of the system, cost of removal
or reinstallation of the system or travel to and from the purchaser’s location. ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE PERIOD OF THE WARRANTY.
This warranty provides specic legal rights, and there may be others that vary from state to state or in the country of compliant use.
Therefore, certain additional exclusions may apply.
Page 34
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ZONE DESTINATION RECORDS
Zone Destination Record
Zone 1 Run 1 Run 2
Settings Record
Volumes:
Zone: 1
Masking:
Input A:
Installation / Service:
Company name:
Install date:
Phone:
Page 35
page 35
4
7
/
16
in.
113mm
Hole cut outline
Flush mount box outline
Control module outline
8
5
/
16
in.
211mm
7
1
/
2
in.
190mm
3
3
/
4
in.
95mm
UP
Hole cut guide for flush mount box
Cut hole to 7
1
/
2
in. (190mm) by 3
3
/
4
in. (95mm)
HOLE CUT GUIDE FOR FLUSH MOUNT BOX
Page 36
page 36
Page 37
page 37
4 7/16 in. 113mm
Wire exit area
3 1/2 in. 90mm
Hole cut guide for privacy sign
Cut hole wire
1
/4 in (6mm) from lower edge of sign
Hole shape is not important, but be careful to stay within area to be covered by sign.
REMEMBER TO CHECK ALL CONNECTIONS AND CONFIRM PRIVACY SIGN OPERATION BEFORE ATTACHING TO WALL
HOLE CUT GUIDE FOR PRIVACY SIGN
Page 38
Cambridge Sound Management, Inc.
404 Wyman St. Suite 200
Waltham, MA 02451 USA
cambridgesound.com
© Copyright 2015 Cambridge Sound Management Inc. Quiet Technology, Qt, Cambridge Sound Management,
and the logo are trademarks of Cambridge Sound Management.
Page 39
This two page document is an addendum to the Qt® Conference Room Edition manual. Please read.
NOTE: Below are supplemental images for the content contained on page
14 of the Qt® Conference Room Edition manual.
Connection to privacy signs
Run a separate cable from the controller mounting location to each lighting location. Do not
daisy chain signs as this may cause the light to be of different brightness. Two 50 ft. (15.2m)
plenum rated cables are provided with the kit.
Panel 1
GND
Panel 2
GND -
Control
GND -
Page 40
This two page document is an addendum to the Qt® Conference Room Edition manual. Please read.
NOTE: Two new options have been added to the program menu of the
Qt® Conference Room Edition. These options are outlined below:
1. Contact Closure = Normal/Off or Normal/Low. When this option is set to “Normal/Off”,
the contact switch will toggle between Normal Volume (Contact Open) and Off (Contact
Closed). When this option is set to “Normal/Low”, the contact switch will toggle
between Normal Volume (Contact Open) and Low Volume (Contact Closed).
2. Disable OFF Button = On or Off. This option allows the user to disable the Off Button on the front panel of the Qt-CRE.
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