MADI-xx
MADI converter and router networkable multi-channel audio monitoring
system
User’s Guide Version 0.8 07/01/2009
Chromatec MADI-xx
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd
Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd. has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information
contained within this document which is nevertheless supplied for information purposes only and
does not constitute any form of warranty or guarantee.
All trademarks acknowledged.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd
Invicta Works
Elliott Road
Bromley
Kent
BR2 9NT
Tel: +44 (0)20 8460 7299
Fax: +44 (0)20 8460 0499
Email: sales@michael-stevens.com
web site: www.michael-stevens.com www.chromatec.com
Chromatec MADI-xx
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd
C
Coonntteennttss
INTRODUCTION 1
Powerful alarms 3
Remote control, monitoring and configuration scheduling 3
Main features 4
THE ON-SCREEN DISPLAY 5
Bargraph scales 5
Alarm indicators 6
NETWORK REQUIREMENTS 6
Level and alarm streams 6
Audio streaming 7
OPERATION 8
OPERATING MODES 8
Normal mode 8
Menu mode 9
CONTROL BUTTON SUMMARY 10
MENU COMMANDS 11
Menu Navigation 11
Scales – analogue and digital scale types, reference value and colours 11
Level Bars – bar and label settings 12
Phase Bars – phase bar and multi-indicator settings 15
Alarms configuration 16
System – user config, IP settings, matrix setup, audio mon, screen res 18
About – Firmware and installed cards 22
INSTALLATION 23
POWER AND FUSES 23
HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS 24
Disposal 24
INPUT CARD CONFIGURATIONS 25
Chromatec MADI-xx
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd
CONNECTOR I/O 25
REMOVING THE TOP COVER 25
Audio I/O connector pin assignments 27
Supplied accessories 28
Options 28
UPGRADING FIRMWARE 29
USING SOFT-XX 30
CONFIG-xx 31
DISPLAY-xx 31
INSTALLATION GUIDE 33
System requirements 33
Initial Setup 34
PROBLEM SOLVING 35
Sample problems and their solutions 35
SPECIFICATION 38
Chromatec MADI-xx Introduction
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 1 Version 0.8
IInnttrroodduuccttiioon
n
The Chromatec MADI-xx is a 128 x 128 channel MADI router with integral multi-channel
audio metering and signal fault alarms for up to 128 channels.
It is designed for live sound theatres, concert halls, radio and TV and is supplied as a 1U
rack mounting frame.
MADI-xx Expansion Slots
It has two slots for optional external audio expansion using 32 channel analogue or
AES/EBU I/O cards. When fully expanded, the total usable matrix size is 192 x 128 (two I/P
cards), 128 x 192 (2 O/P cards) or 160x160 (1 I/P card and 1 O/P card).
Any of the MADI inputs or analogue or AES/EBU inputs or outputs (on a fully equipped
frame) can be converted to any of the three supported formats.
In addition, the MADI stream can be tapped into to break out up to 16 pairs of analogue or
AES/EBU audio for external processing. The processed audio can then be fed back into the
MADI stream.
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All audio level and alarm data can be viewed on a local display and streamed via a TCP/IP
network for remote visual monitoring.
Monitored parameters include audio level, audio-loss, carrier-loss (when using AES/EBU
inputs) over-level and sustained anti-phase between assigned channel pairs. Six industry
standard audio meter types are supported and each meter can have its own range colours,
break points and reference level and a choice of peak hold and phase correlation functions.
An on-screen menu provides access to all parameters.
Up to four pairs of audio channels can be selected for audible monitoring. These can be
streamed over the TCP/IP network and are available in both analogue and AES/EBU formats
via an optional monitor output card.
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Powerful alarms
Alarm settings and thresholds can be set independently for each channel or pair of channels.
This allows different alarm configurations for different programming such as pop, classical
music, news, sport, movies and drama. Not only does this significantly reduce the
occurrence of false alarms, but the entire gamut of MADI-xx settings, including alarm
settings, meter types and colours, can be scheduled to change over a 24 hour period using
optional SOFT-xx PC software.
Remote control, monitoring and configuration scheduling
Although the MADI-xx is designed to be used as a stand-alone monitor it may also be used
with control and monitoring software to monitor and configure multiple units over a network.
The optional Windows PC software (SOFT-xx) provides multiple frame integration,
automated control, event logging, configuration scheduling, real time diagnostics and
unlimited user setups. It also acts as a desktop meter bridge by rendering analogue and
digital audio meters and alarms to screen for multiple frames.
Channels can be named for ease of use and associated with alarms and analogue or digital
meters as required.
Other optional networked monitor accessories are available to further enhance the
monitoring of multiple audio streams in multi-channel control rooms.
For example, the ALARMS-xx remote alarm reads up to 32 channels of alarm data from a
single MADI-xx or AM-xx frame.
The unit has front panel LED indicators which show each type of alarm condition for each
channel. ALARM-xx units may be easily cascaded to monitor more channels.
REMOTE-xx is a 1U hard wired remote control panel which replicates the front panel keys to
allow MADI-xx or AM-xx to be mounted away from the main operational position.
Both REMOTE-xx and ALARMS-xx can be connected via LAN or RS422.
Audio level and alarm data may also be distributed over a LAN to other devices that can
render audio meter bargraphs and alarm status information to screen and the protocol used
is available by request.
Available accessories include audio input breakout cablesfor converting from XLRs (or
BNCs in the case of unbalanced AES/EBU) to 25 way and 37 way D connectors.
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Main features
192x192 router allows any input to be switched to any output
2 x Coaxial & 2 x Optical 64 channel MADI interfaces for 128 MADI channels
Optional external 32 channel audio I/O interface cards
Optional SOFT-xx control, source/bar labelling, monitoring and configuration scheduling software
for use with multiple units over a LAN
DVI-I graphical output for audio metering and system menu
Optional audible monitor output card for 4 analogue and digital pairs from any source
Audio streaming for up to 4 channel pairs via TCP/IP
DIN PPM, BBC PPM, NORDIC PPM, VU, VU EXTENDED, AES/EBU scale types each with their
own ballistics, range colours, break points and level reference
On-screen bargraphs may be grouped according to signal type or manually assigned to sources
irrespective of signal format
Sources can be named with up to 16 alpha-numeric characters
Per channel alarms for audio carrier loss, over and under level & anti-phase
Phase bar assignable to any channel pair
On-screen menu for unit configuration
1U rack-mountable
Keyboard socket for custom labels
Works with optional dedicated hardware monitoring units
Available accessories include audio I/P breakout cables to XLR / BNC
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The on-screen display
The MADI-xx meter/alarm display provides a visual status display of up to 128 channels in
two rows of 64 channels each. Each row can be assigned to display MADI input 1 or 2, or
or the input External bus. If the second row is set to Off, the first row is rescaled to fill
the screen.
The MADI-xx Meter/Alarm Display – default colours and break points
Break points and colours used for the upper and lower ranges of each bar type can be
customised to satisfy any in-house monitoring stylefor each of the six scale types.
Bargraph scales
The following audio scales are supported:
Available meter scales
Note: Each bar type can have different range colours, break points and level reference.
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Where optional external audio cards are installed and preferences for different scale types has been
detected, external channels are placed automatically into two groups according to signal type. This is
dealt with in detail in the Analogue and digital groups section in the Operation chapter.
Alarm indicators
Flashing mini-alarms can be assigned to the bargraphs for under-level, over-level, anti-phase
and no-carrier (AES only).
The colours used are as follows:
Audio Loss: Yellow – position (left or right) indicates channel
Audio Over: Red – position (left or right) indicates channel
Anti-Phase: Cyan – middle alarm
Carrier Loss: White – middle alarm
If carrier loss occurs only that alarm will flash, unless audio loss had already been active for
the same channel.
Note: There are also mini-phase bars which can be turned on for each bar. The colours for in-
phase and out-of-phase are customisable.
Network requirements
There are many ways networks can be configured and a hard and fast rule is hard to make
as both latency and bandwidth will affect operation. Bandwidth requirements can be
calculated from are the sum of the alarm and level data together with any streamed audio
monitoring feeds.
A MADI-xx frame being monitored by SOFT-xx will require up to 455kbps at startup
assuming one monitoring application and no streamed audio. Further monitoring applications
will require up to 370kbps each.
Streamed audio bandwidth is dependent on monitoring audio quality and the number of
stereo pairs being monitored. Full bandwidth quality requires 1.6Mbps for each stereo pair so
the maximum bandwidth needed for four stereo pairs would be 6.4 Mbps. This figure must be
added to the bandwidth needed for all of the Monitoring applications expected to be active at
one time. The next section discusses bandwidth requirements in more detail:
Level and alarm streams
Level and alarm streams use unicasting for every monitoring session invoked.
Stream Data Rate
Audio and phase levels plus alarms 370kbps
Alarm data only 85kbps
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When the SOFT-xx starts it will establish one stream for a connected MADI-xx frame at
455kbps, which is the sum of the two streams. The alarm only stream is used for logging in
the configuration application (CONFIG-xx) and the other stream is used for a single
monitoring application (DISPLAY-xx).
Each monitoring station requires a stream at 370kbps for level and alarm data.
Audio streaming
Audio streaming bandwidth is directly proportional to the number of audio pairs streamed and
the quality levels used:
Audio stream quality Data Rate
Full-bandwidth stereo pair 1.6Mbps
12kHz stereo pair 768kbps
6kHz stereo pair 384kbps
6kHz 8-bit µ-law encoded stereo pair 192kbps
Network bit-rate does not change when multiple stations are listening to the same stream
since multicasting is used for each stereo pair.
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O
Oppeerraattiioonn
The front panel user interface consists of 6 buttons. The functions assigned to control
buttons depend on the mode selected.
The MADI-xx 1U rack front control buttons, & status LED
Operating modes
Normal or ‘locked’ mode is the normal operating mode. Configuration or ‘menu’ mode
provides access to configuration menus.
Normal mode
In normal use, the configuration menu will be locked to prevent inadvertent operation and
configuration menus are not available.
The main ‘normal’ mode controls are as follows:
Select Parameter buttons move channel-select cursor to select phase bar source
Lock button resets the peak hold indicators when pressed briefly
Lock button enters ‘menu’ mode when held down for about three seconds
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Menu mode
To enter menu mode from normal mode (with the red Lock LED off) hold the Lock button
down for about 3 seconds. The configuration or ‘menu’ mode will be entered, on-screen
menus will appear and the red Lock LED will illuminate. If the Lock button is held down
again, any changed settings will be saved and the MADI-xx will return to normal meter mode.
The menu mode will return to the last menu item visited provided the unit has not been reset
or switched off since a configuration menu was last accessed.
The main ‘menu’ mode controls are as follows:
Function scrolls menu cursor up and down to select function
Select Parameter keys (<>) selects settings to apply to chosen parameter; also selects
main menu when menu name is highlighted
Insert On + Select Parameter (INS + <>) selects main menu page
Insert On + Lock confirms action in some menus
Lock button leaves ‘menu’ mode and saves settings when held down for about three
seconds
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Control button summary
The 6 menu buttons are assigned functions as follows:
Button Normal mode Menu mode
Insert On No function No function
Function
/Fade
(¬^)
No function Scrolls cursor up and
down menu to select
function.
Select
Parameter
( <>)
Use keys to select
monitored source.
using on-screen
cursor
Selects settings to
apply to parameter
chosen with function
buttons.
Also selects menu
when menu name
highlighted.
Insert On +
Select
Parameter
(INS + <>)
No function Selects menu
Insert On +
Lock
No function Confirms action in
some menus
Lock –
pressed
briefly
Resets bargraph
peak-hold and main
phase bar hold
No function
Lock – held
down
Hold down for 3
seconds to access
configuration menus
Saves settings and
returns to normal mode
Button functions
Note: Factory reset may be applied by holding down the Function/Fade buttons whilst
performing a power cycle – see the Trouble Shooting for further details.
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Menu Commands
The menu or configuration mode is entered by holding the Lock button down for three
seconds. This will allow configuration menus to be accessed.
Menu Navigation
<>
Select submenu when menu name highlighted or change Parameter
value within menu
¬^
Select item in menus and sub-menus
LOCK
Press Lock (briefly) to return to main menu from sub-menu
Press Lock for more than 3 seconds to leave menu system
INS + <>
Move to another main menu
Scales – analogue and digital scale types, reference value and colours
Scales Parameter(s)
Digital Scale Type AES/EBU, DIN, BBC, NORDIC, VU, EXTENDED VU
Digital Scale Position BOTH, OFF, LEFT, RIGHT
Analogue/Digital Scale
Reference
-10 dBFS to -30 dBFS in 1dB steps
Analogue Scale Type AES/EBU, DIN, BBC, NORDIC, VU, EXTENDED VU
Analogue Scale Position
BOTH, OFF, LEFT, RIGHT
Analogue 0dB Reference 0.0dBu to +/- 12dBu in 0.1dB steps
Scales Colour
Select named colour for the meter scale numbers
Bargraph scales
Standard scales and their corresponding ballistics may be selected. These may be
positioned to the left, right or both sides of the relevant bargraphs or turned off.
Analogue and digital scale references
The AES/EBU scale is designed for use with digital audio. Analogue scales can be used for
AES/EBU channels, (and AES/EBU scales may be used for analogue channels) but the
default normal and upper range settings are re-scaled.
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Level Bars – bar and label settings
Level Bars Parameter(s)
Meter Row 1 MADI in 1, MADI in 2, External in
Meter Row 2 External in, MADI in 1, MADI in 2, OFF
Set Bar Colours: All bars the same, Each bar individually, Group of
32/16/8/4/2 bars
Over Range Colour Use <> to select colour, ¬^ to select bar
Press Lock briefly to leave individual/group sub-menu
Upper Range Colour Use <> to select colour, ¬^ to select bar
Press Lock briefly to leave individual/group sub-menu
Lower Range Colour Use <>to select colour, ¬^ to select bar
Press Lock briefly to leave individual/group sub-menu
Background Colour Use <> to select colour
Analogue Upper Range
Point
Use <> to select range point value, ¬^ to select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Analogue Lower Range
Point
Use <> to select range point value, ¬^ to select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Digital Upper Range Point Use <> to select range point value, ¬^ to select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Digital Lower Range
Point
Use <> to select range point value, ¬^ to select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Labels Use <> to select Numeric, Text, Rotated Numeric, Rotated
Text or Off.
Label Colour Use <> to select colour
Peak Hold Use <> to select value: Off , 1, 3, 10, 30, 60 seconds
Peak Hold Colour Use <> to select colour
Bar Width Use <> to select width in pixels, ¬^ to select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Bar Spacing Use <>to select L-R, Pair and Bar spacing in pixels, ¬^ to
select bar(s)
Press Lock briefly to leave sub-menu
Bars H Position
Use <> to select ( )
Bars V Position
Use <> to select ( )
Meter Rows
Two 64 channel bargraph rows are supported which can be assigned to either MADI input or
output or either the I/P or O/P expansion bus. If the second row is turned off, the first row is
scaled to fill the screen.
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Ranges and colours
Each bargraph may be split into three different coloured sections, over-range, upper-range
and lower-range.
The break points can be chosen for groups of 2/4/8/16 or 32 bars or for all bars or for an
individual bar (by selecting a specific bar in the break point sub-menu).
Upper and lower analogue bar range points may be set between -30 and 12 dB in 1 dB
steps.
The digital upper range points may be set between -30 and 0 dB in 1 dB steps. The digital
lower range point may be set between -50 and -10 dB in 1 dB steps.
Note: If only one or two colours for each bargraph are preferred, then the upper and lowerrange points may be set to an equal level or changed to the same colour.
Bar labels
In default mode channels are labelled numerically. Labels of up to 16 characters long may be
created either by using a keyboard attached to the PS2 socket on the front of the unit or by
using the SOFT-xx Configuration and Monitoring software.
If a keyboard is connected into the front of the unit, keyboard mode will be available when
Labels is selected. The attached keyboard can then be used to enter text directly at the
cursor position which will initially be below the first left hand bar on the screen. Customised
labels up to 16 characters long can be entered. Use the up/down keys to change character
position, the delete and backspace keys to change text and the keyboard left and right keys
to move to another bar.
Note: The US keyboard layout is used.
Labels may be in one of the following formats: Text, Rotated Text, Numeric, Rotated Numeric
and Off. The label colour may be any named colour available. These choices affect all labels.
Peak hold indicators
Peak hold indicators are provided for all channels. The delay time before decay may be set
according to requirements and includes an ‘infinite’ setting which indicates the maximum
level attained over any period of time until it is reset. This is carried out by briefly pressing the
‘Lock’ button when in the normal operating mode. Peak Hold colour may be any named
colour available.
Bar width, position and spacing
Bar width can be adjusted for all bars or for selected bars. If it is adjusted for all bars the
effect will be to scale all the bars horizontally on the display. Bargraphs spacing may be
adjusted between all Left and Right bars and for spacing between all L/R pairs and between
selected bar pairs. Width and spacing is adjusted in pixels.
All bars may also be adjusted together for horizontal and vertical position. There is no
horizontal/vertical setting for individual bars.
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Analogue and digital groups
When digital and/or analogue input cards are installed, the external input bus
may be assigned to the upper and/or lower bargraph rows for monitoring. Bar groups are
automatically created based on the following rules:
With 2 analogue input cards and a row selected as EXTERNAL IN, the meter scale for
analogue signals is used for all 64 channels in that row.
With 1 analogue input card (no second card) and a row selected as EXTERNAL IN, the
meter scale for analogue signals is used but only 32 bars will be shown for that row.
With 1 analogue input card and 1 digital input card, and a row selected as EXTERNAL IN,
the row will be split into 2 groups. If the first external input card is analogue then the first
group will show the scale selected for analogue and meter the analogue channels. The
second group will show the scale selected for digital and meter the digital channels. The
opposite applies if the first external card is digital.
With 2 digital input cards and a row selected as EXTERNAL IN, the scale chosen as the
digital scale is always used.
Where ‘analogue’ and ‘digital’ groups have been automatically created, the gap between the
groups can be controlled using Group Spacing from 0 to 100 pixels.
Tip: The scale assigned to a group can be any of the supported scales and need not
necessarily match the signal type.
Note: The scale for MADI out is always that chosen for digital signals, regardless of whether
MADI sources are selected from an analogue input card or not.
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Phase Bars – phase bar and multi-indicator settings
Phase Bars Parameter(s)
Phase Bar Mode Off, On, Bar + Hold
Phase Bar Assign Cursor, Selected Channel Pair (available channels depend
on installed cards)
Phase Bar Position Top, Bottom
Phase Multi-Indicators Off, In + Out, Out Only,
In Phase Colour Named Colour
Out of Phase Colour Named Colour
Phase bar settings
The phase bar can be positioned at the top or bottom of the screen and assigned to any
channel pair.
Note: The assigned channel pair will be highlighted during selection from the on-screen
mimic.
It can also be assigned to the on-screen cursor controlled by the Select Parameter Left/Right
keys, so that moving the cursor assigns the phase bar.
Multi-indicators
Multi-indicators appear above each pair of bars but below any alarm indicators. In Phase and
Out of Phase colour assignments are the same for both multi-indicators and the assignable
phase bar.
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Alarms configuration
Alarms Parameter(s)
Alarm Auto Reset OFF, 1s, 3s, 5s, 10s, 30s, 1min, 2mins, 5mins, 10mins,
30mins, 1 hour
Alarm Indicators On, Off
Audio Loss Alarms Enabled, Disabled
Audio Loss Channels All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
Press lock briefly to leave submenu
Audio Loss Timeout 1s, 3s, 5s, 10s, 30s, 60s, 2min, 5min, 10min, 30min, 1 hour
Analogue Loss Threshold All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
-60dB to 0dB in 1dB steps
Digital Loss Threshold All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel -80dB to -
18dB in 1dB steps
Audio Over Alarms Enabled, Disabled
Audio Over Channels All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
Audio Over Timeout 0s, 1s, 2s, 5s, 10s
Analogue Over Threshold All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
0dB to 20dB in 1dB steps
Digital Over Threshold All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
-20dBFS to 0dBFS in 1dB steps
Anti-Phase Alarms Enabled, Disabled
Anti-Phase Channels All Chans, Chan 1+2 to last configured channel pair
Anti-Phase Timeout 1s, 3s, 5s, 10s, 30s, 60s, 2min, 5min, 10min, 30min, 1 hour
Anti-Phase Threshold All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
Any Negative, Less Than -0.5
Carrier Loss Alarms Enabled, Disabled
Carrier Loss Channels All Chans, Chan 1 to last configured channel
Carrier Loss Timeout 1s, 3s, 5s, 10s, 30s, 60s, 2min, 5min, 10min, 30min, 1 hour
ALARM-xx 1: STATUS Add new (Search for unit), Delete, Configure
ALARM-xx 2: STATUS Add new (Search for unit), Delete, Configure
ALARM-xx 3: STATUS Add new (Search for unit), Delete, Configure
ALARM-xx 4: STATUS Add new (Search for unit), Delete, Configure
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Alarms
Alarms may be enabled per channel for audio-loss and over-level. Alarms may be enabled
per channel pair for anti-phase and carrier-loss (AES/EBU inputs only). Thresholds and
timeouts are adjustable for each alarm type for both digital and analogue bar types.
An alarm condition is provided in the form of flashing coloured rectangles situated at the top
of the respective bargraphs. Refer to the On-screen alarms and phase indicators section for
further details.
Anti-phase alarm
The anti-phase alarm threshold can be set for any negative value or any value less than -0.5.
The later setting may be preferred to reduce unwanted anti-phase alarms, since most audio
signals may cause negative indications.
Resetting alarms
Alarm indication normally persists even though the underlying condition that triggered the
alarm is no longer present. To ensure that outdated alarms are removed, the Alarm Auto
Reset function forces all active alarms off after an adjustable period of time. Any alarm
conditions that are still present will then re-trigger the appropriate alarm.
Using ALARM-xx frames
Up to four LAN connected ALARM-xx frames may be assigned using the search facility in the
ALARMS-xx sub menu.
ADD NEW Select from auto-detected ALARMS-xx on LAN
DELETE Delete selected ALARMS-xx unit
Configure:
Use DHCP No, Yes (If No then set IP details as follows)
IP Address Enter the required IP address of the frame byte at a time in the sub-menu
Netmask Enter the required Subnet Mask byte at a time in the sub-menu
Identify
Displays fixed read-only frame MAC Address
Network Settings
These settings only need to be manually entered if DHCP is set to NO. This would be
required for a network that uses fixed IP addresses and does not rely on a DHCP server to
allocate them automatically. If DHCP is used, the settings are greyed out but should
nevertheless be valid provided the DHCP server has updated the frame. Identify is the MAC
address or physical address of the IP port; it is unique to the frame and cannot be changed.
Tip: The IP address must be unique on the network. Please see your system administrator if
these details are required.
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System – user config, IP settings, matrix setup, audio mon, screen res
System Parameter(s)
User Configuration Select USER 1, USER 2, USER 3, USER 4 RESET USER 1,
RESET USER 2, RESET USER 3 , RESET USER 4,
COPY 1 TO 2, COPY 1 TO 3, COPY 1 TO 4, COPY 2
TO 1, COPY 2 TO 3, COPY 2 TO 4, COPY 3 TO 1,
COPY 3 TO 2, COPY 3 TO 4, COPY 4 TO 1, COPY 4
TO 2, COPY 4 TO 3
Note: INSERT+LOCK to Confirm RESET/COPY
Copy settings from remote
MADI-xx
Select from auto-detected MADI-xx on LAN
DHCP Enabled No, Yes (If No then set IP details as follows)
Hostname Enter a friendly name for the frame (optional). It is
displayed by SOFT-xx but not used.
IP Address Enter frame IP address byte at a time in the sub-menu
Subnet Mask Enter Subnet Mask byte at a time in the sub-menu
Gateway If required, enter the Gateway address byte at a time in
the sub-menu
DNS If required, enter the DNS server address byte at a time
in the sub-menu
MAC Displays fixed read-only frame MAC Address
MADI In 1 source Coaxial, Fibre
MADI In 2 source Coaxial, Fibre
MADI Out 1 Matrix Reset
1
MADI O/P
Channels 1 to 64
Show Matrix
1
MADI Out = MADI 1 In 1:1
1
MADI Out = MADI 2 In 1:1
1
MADI Out = EXT. In 1:1
1
Manual I/P assignment for each
MADI output
MADI Out 2 Matrix Reset
1
MADI O/P
Channels 1 to 64
Show Matrix
1
MADI Out = MADI 1 In 1:1
1
MADI Out = MADI 2 In 1:1
1
MADI Out = EXT. In 1:1
1
Manual I/P assignment for each
MADI output
External Out matrix Reset
1
Ext O/P
Channels 1 to 64
Show Matrix
1
Ext Out = MADI 1 In 1:1
1
Ext Out = MADI 2 In 1:1
1
Ext Out = EXT. In 1:1
1
Manual I/P assignment for each
Ext output
MADI Out Sync Source
Note:1Press Lock and Insert On when prompted to select Reset options.
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Audio Monitor Out 1+2 Off, Chan 1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8 ….(available channels
depend on installed cards)
Audio Monitor Out 3+4 Off, Chan 1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8 ….(available channels
depend on installed cards)
Audio Monitor Out 5+6
Off, Chan 1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8 ….(available channels
depend on installed cards)
Audio Monitor Out 7+8 Off, Chan 1+2, 3+4, 5+6, 7+8 ….(available channels
depend on installed cards)
Audio Monitor Remote
Switching
Out 1+2, Locked, Unlocked
Out 3+4, Locked, Unlocked
Out 5+6, Locked, Unlocked
Out 7+8, Locked, Unlocked
Briefly press Lock to leave sub menu
Audio Network Stream 1 Off, 16-bit Full Bandwidth, 16-bit 24kHz (768kb/s), 12-
bit 12kHz (384kb/s), 8-bit 12kHz (192kb/s)
Audio Network Stream 2 Off, 16-bit Full Bandwidth, 16-bit 24kHz (768kb/s), 12-
bit 12kHz (384kb/s), 8-bit 12kHz (192kb/s)
Audio Network Stream 3 Off, 16-bit Full Bandwidth, 16-bit 24kHz (768kb/s), 12-
bit 12kHz (384kb/s), 8-bit 12kHz (192kb/s)
Audio Network Stream 4 Off, 16-bit Full Bandwidth, 16-bit 24kHz (768kb/s), 12-
bit 12kHz (384kb/s), 8-bit 12kHz (192kb/s)
Screen Resolution 1024x768, 1280x768 (INSERT+LOCK to confirm)
Align Monitor Size/Pos Displays a white active screen area rectangle.
Preferred Monitor Out Type Analogue, Digital
User configuration
The MADI-xx has four user memories, USER 1, USER 2, USER 3 and USER 4. Settings can
be copied from one user to the other and further changes can be made before saving. Any
changes made are saved automatically when exiting the menu by briefly pressing the ‘Lock’
button, whichever User is selected.
Note: A separate set of channel labels may be saved for both User 1 and User 2 memories.
Applying ‘Reset User n’ returns the settings of user ‘n’ memory to the factory default. Factory
defaults may also be
ap
plied with a Master Reset as explained in the Trouble Shooting
chapter.
Reset and Copy functions require the Lock and Insert On buttons to be pressed together as
confirmation.
Network Settings
These settings only need to be manually entered if DHCP is set to NO. This would be
required for a network that uses fixed IP addresses and does not rely on a DHCP server to
allocate them automatically.
Chromatec MADI-xx Operation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 20 Version 0.8
If DHCP is used, the settings are greyed out but should nevertheless be valid provided the
DHCP server has updated the frame. The MAC address is the physical address of the IP
port; it is unique to the frame and cannot be changed.
Tip: The IP address must be unique on the network. Please see your system administrator if
these details are required.
Matrix setup
Input sources may be taken from either the optical or BNC connectors for each 64 channel
MADI inputs independently.
Each of the three 64 output groups (MADI 1, MADI 2 and the Ext bus) of the 192x192 matrix
may assigned to any of the 64 input groups; MADI I/P 1, MADI I/P 2 and the External I/P bus.
Note: The same I/P may be assigned to more than one output.
Tip: To assign inputs on a one-to-one basis, use one of the Reset 1:1 options. This will set
channel 1 out to channel 1 in, channel 2 out to channel 2 in and so on for each matrix.
Using the on-screen matrix mimic
Matrix inputs may also be assigned using the two-dimensional matrix mimic. Select Reset:
Show Matrix and press the Lock and Insert On buttons to display the mimic.
To change a cross-point move the orange highlight cursor (at top left in the picture) to the
desired location and press the Insert On button to activate. When done, press the Lock
button to leave the matrix mimic screen.
Chromatec MADI-xx Operation
© 2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 21 Version 0.8
Audio monitor assign
There are four audio monitor output pairs available in both analogue and digital form. Each of
these pairs can be assigned to any available pair of audio inputs.
Both analogue and digital audio monitor outputs are provided, irrespective of the format of the
input signal selected for monitoring. Since both output formats are derived from the same
internal source, any gain applied to the signal sent to the output board will affect both sets of
monitor outputs equally.
The monitor output levels are subject to both the Analogue/Digital Scale Reference and the
Analogue 0dB Reference settings in the Scales menu. The output board is hard wired so that
a -24dBfs signal corresponds to 0dBu. Therefore, alternative reference settings are liable to
result in audio level discrepancies at the audio monitor outputs.
The Preferred Monitor Out Type setting in the System menu applies an automatic correction
to either the analogue or digital monitor output, so that irrespective of gain adjustments in the
Scales menu, the corresponding monitor output format is maintained at the correct level.
Note: Selected channels are common to analogue and digital outputs and cannot be set
independently. This also applies to streamed audio monitoring.
Audio network stream
Up to four audio network streams can be put on the network, at the bit rates shown. The
URLs to use for playing back the streams are: rtsp://<ip_address>/stream1,
rtsp://<ip_address>/stream2, rtsp://<ip_address>/stream3, and rtsp://<ip_address>/stream4,
where ip_address is the IP address of the MADI-xx
.
See the
Specification Chapter and FAQ for help with configuring media players and
networks.
Screen resolution
There are currently two output resolutions supported, 1024x768 @ 60 Hz and 1280x768 @
71.9 Hz. If a new resolution is selected it will flash red to indicate that both Lock and Ins er t
On must be pressed together to change the output resolution.
The default of 1024x768 @ 60 Hz (48.4kHz) is supported by most CRT monitors and 15/17
inch LCD monitors. The wide-screen resolution of 1280x768 @51.1 Hz may not be suitable
for monitors that cann
ot lock to its vertical refresh rate of 51.1Hz (horizontal refresh rate of
40.6kHz).
Note: An LCD monitor should always be run at its native resolution to avoid image
degradation as a result of artefacts caused by the LCD's internal scaler.
Align monitor size/position
The white active area rectangle allows the auto-adjust feature of analogue LCD panels to
function properly. It may also be used as a guide for manual alignment of the attached
monitor.
Note: The MADI-xx front panel Left/Right keys have no funct
ion in this mode.
Chromatec MADI-xx Operation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 22 Version 0.8
About – Firmware and installed cards
About Status
Network Firmware 1.07
Controller Firmware 1.05c
Card 1 MADI I/O
Card 3 ANALOGUE In/Out / AES/EBU In/Out / NONE
Card 4 ANALOGUE In/Out / AES/EBU In/Out / NONE
Firmware
The firmware level installed is shown for both network and controller.
Input card type
The type of I/O cards fitted is displayed.
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 23 Version 0.8
IInnssttaallllaattiioon
n
The Chromatec MADI-xx 1U frame may be installed in 19 inch bays with 355mm depth
(~400mm including connectors). Ventilation is produced in each frame with three exhaust
fans on the left hand side (viewed from front) with intake grilles at the right.
Frames should be installed into bays such that airflow through these apertures is not
impeded.
The 1U MADI-xx frame showing main side to side ventilation
Note: The front rack ears are intended to provide a means of retaining the unit in the rack.
To ensure adequate support the unit MUST also be supported at the rear of the
frame. Please ensure that ventilation is not impaired when selecting suitable
supports.
Power and fuses
The mains voltage (240/100 volts) will be auto detected provided it is in the range 100 – 250 V and 47
– 63Hz, 50W. The unit uses a 1A fuse
Note: A spare 1A fuse should be located under the pull-out flap.
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 24 Version 0.8
Health and safety considerations
The Installation and Maintenance of the Chromatec MADI-xx unit and any associated
equipment, must be carried out by PERSONS SUITABLY QUALIFIED to work with
equipment which may be connected to the mains supply.
The unit MUST BE DISCONNECTED & ISOLATED FROM THE MAINS INPUT and from
other product outputs before undertaking maintenance.
ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARDS exist if conductive instruments, neck chains or fingers etc are
placed within the unit or in close proximity of the input/output terminals/connectors.
Incorrect installation can cause internal components to rupture and particles to be ejected
from the product.
TOXIC FUME HAZARDS exist if the unit is subjected to direct flames or excessive
temperature of above 100 Degrees Centigrade ambient.
The mounting and installation of the unit must be arranged by the user to comply with all
safety regulations by the indigenous authority.
Disposal
Do not incinerate as explosive and toxic fume hazards exist. Disposal must be by dismantling
the product to component level and disposing of each component by an approved method.
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 25 Version 0.8
Input card configurations
The MADI-xx may be fitted with up to two hot-swappable external audio I/O cards.
MADI-xx 1U frame showing card slot positions
The input cards are always installed in the two lower right hand slots (as viewed from the
front). The controller card is always fitted in the top left slot and the Audio Monitor card is
always fitted in the bottom left slot.
Note: I/O cards are hot-swappable and may be freely inserted and removed whilst the
unit is powered. Changes are normally recognised immediately; however inserting
analogue cards may force a system reset. This is not harmful and the inserted
cards will always be recognised following a reboot.
Connector I/O
MADI I/O uses SC & coaxial BNCs, external audio uses female 37 way ‘D’ connectors and
monitoring audio outputs use 25 way 'D’ connectors. The video sync input uses a BNC
connector and all serial data connectors use 9 way ‘D’ connectors. The LAN connector is a
standard RJ45 connector and video out uses a standard DVI-I Microcross connector. The
USB connector is for fast data access. A PS2 connector on the front is for a keyboard.
MADI-xx 1U frame rear connector I/O
Removing the top cover
Warning: To avoid dangerous electric shock, do not perform any service or make
adjustments unless qualified to do so. The mains supply must be disconnected
before removing any covers.
To gain access to the internal pcb and associated electronics proceed as follows:
Disconnect the mains supply from the unit
Remove the screws retaining the top cover and keep them in a safe place
Proceed as follows to replace the cover:
Replace the cover and screw firmly in position using the saved screws
Re-connect the mains supply to the unit
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 26 Version 0.8
Serial port assignments
Female 9 way ‘D’ connector RS422 assignments
Pin No Function
1 GND
2 RX 3 TX 7 RX+
8 TX+
Female 9 way ‘D’ connector RS232 assignments
Pin No Function
2 TX
3 RX (inactive in half duplex mode)
4 DTR (jumper JP1 on 2 & 3)
5 GND
7 RTS (jumper JP 1 on 1 & 2)
Jumpers JP1 and JP2 are located on the RS232 pcb at the rear of the unit. Access requires
the removal of the top cover with the power removed as explained in the 'Removing the top
cover' section.
MADI-xx cover removed to show RS232 port settings
JP1 – DTS/RTS select (normally no jumper)
JP2 – Half duplex jumper on 1 & 2; Full duplex jumper on 2 & 3
Note: Pin 1 is the first left most pin of each three pin block.
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 27 Version 0.8
Audio I/O connector pin assignments
Analogue audio In/Out Connector type: 37 way ‘D’ female
Analogue In/Out +VE -VE GNDs
Ch 1 18 37
Ch 2 17 36
Ch 3 16 35
Ch 4 15 34
Ch 5 14 32
Ch 6 13 31
Ch 7 12 30
Ch 8 11 29
Ch 9 9 28
Ch 10 8 27
Ch 11 7 26
Ch 12 6 25
Ch 13 5 23
Ch 14 4 22
Ch 15 3 21
Ch 16 2 20
Grounds 1, 24, 10, 33, 19
Digital audio In/Out Connector type: 37 way ‘D’ female
Digital In/Out +VE -VE GNDs
Ch 1 18 37
Ch 2 16 35
Ch 3 14 32
Ch 4 12 30
Ch 5 9 28
Ch 6 7 26
Ch 7 5 23
Ch 8 3 21
Grounds 1, 24, 10, 33, 19
AES/EBU inputs may be jumper selected per channel to be either balanced or unbalanced.
The settings are set via jumpers on each digital audio input card.
AES/EBU digital audio input card bal/unbal settings
Chromatec MADI-xx Installation
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 28 Version 0.8
Analogue Monitor Out Connector type: 25 way ‘D’ male
Analogue GND +VE -VE
Chan 1 25 24 12
Chan 2 11 10 23
Chan 3 22 21 9
Chan 4 8 7 20
Chan 5 19 18 6
Chan 6 5 4 17
Chan 7 16 15 3
Chan 8 2 1 14
AES/EBU Monitor Out Connector type: 25 way ‘D’ male
AES/EBU GND +VE -VE
1 -Chan 1&2 19 18 6
2 -Chan 3&4 5 4 17
3 -Chan 5&6 16 15 3
4 -Chan 7&8 2 1 14
Note: Unbalanced AES/EBU sources can be connected to either GND & +VE or -VE &
+VE.
Supplied accessories
Item Accessory
1 MADI-xx frame
2 Manual
3 Mains lead
4 4x 37 way ‘D’ connector, 2 x 25 way ‘D’ connector
Options
Ordering Code Description
SOFT-xx PC software for remote configuration, monitoring and multiple
AM-xx/MADI-xx integration
xx-MAIP 32ch analogue audio I/P card
xx-MDIP 32ch (16 pairs) AES/EBU audio I/P card
xx-MAOP 32ch analogue audio O/P card
xx-MDOP 32ch (16 pairs) AES/EBU audio O/P card
16XLR-37-AI 16 x XLR(FM) to 37 way 'D' connector analogue I/P cable
8XLR-37-DI 8 x XLR (FM) to 37 way 'D' connector AES/EBU I/P cable
16XLR-37-AO 16 x XLR(M) to 37 way 'D' connector analogue O/P cable
8XLR-37-DO 8 x XLR(M) to 37 way 'D' connector AES/EBU O/P cable
8BNC-37-DIO 8 x BNC to 37 way 'D' connector unbalanced AES/EBU I/O
cable
Chromatec MADI-xx Upgrading firmware
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 29 Version 0.8
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From time to time, MADI-xx firmware updates may be made available. These might be either
for the network card, the controller card, or both. The method for uploading to the frame is
the same and is easily performed using a PC connected to the MADI-xx LAN port directly, or
over a network.
1) Establish communication with an MADI-xx frame to be upgraded over a network by using
Windows Explorer to search for the IP address of the frame: ftp//xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx.
2) The two current firmware files should be visible; MADIXX.BIN for the MADI-xx controller
firmware and madixxnet_APP.s19 for the network firmware.
3) Copy the replacement file or files to the clipboard and paste them where the original files
appear.
4) The file transfer will begin.
The new network firmware will take effect only after the MADI-xx has been rebooted.
Note: The IP addresses of the frame and the PC must be in the same range. If necessary,
the IP address of the frame can be changed within the on-screen menu (see page 18).
Chromatec MADI-xx Using SOFT-xx
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 30 Version 0.8
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SOFT-xx has been developed specifically for use with the Chromatec AM-xx and MADI-xx
multi-channel audio meter systems on a TCP/IP network.
The main purposes of the software are:
The integration of up to four AM-xx and / or MADI-xx frames on a LAN
Remote control, audio metering and audible monitoring via LAN
To create, store and schedule the upload of different user configurations
To create a log of system events
Remote monitoring and reset of system alarms
Operators do not need to know which frames process which MADI/audio channels as the
combined system will appear as a one virtual multi-channel monitoring system.
Note: The total number of channels that can be handled by SOFT-xx at any one time is 256.
SOFT-xx comprises two separate applications, CONFIG-xx and DISPLAY-xx.
CONFIG-xx and DISPLAY-xx are independent and may each be run on the same PC or
different PCs on the same LAN, with the proviso that only one instance of CONFIG-xx can
control frames at a time.
Chromatec MADI-xx Using SOFT-xx
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 31 Version 0.8
CONFIG-xx
This application is the system management administrative tool. Password protection can be
implemented to prevent unauthorised access. Only one instance of CONFIG-xx can be run
on the same LAN at any one time. CONFIG-xx is USB dongle protected and must be run on
the PC to which the dongle is connected.
Configuration Files
The administration tool allows many settings to be globally set for all frames or for individual
frames. This is mainly accomplished by using configuration files which are maintained for
each frame and can be uploaded manually or scheduled for upload at set times.
A configuration file defines the essential alarm and level metering parameters that a MADIxx/AM-xx frame will use. It covers such things as meter scales types, alarm thresholds and
sensitivities and which of the available alarms can be used on a per channel basis. All of
these parameters can be changed by uploading a different configuration file. Changes can
also be scheduled to take place at selected times. Uploading and scheduling are restricted to
users with access to the CONFIG-xx configuration application.
MADI-xx/AM-xx Settings
Fixed settings such as channel names, and audio formats supported by particular channels
and network streaming formats are not held within a configuration file, but can nevertheless
be changed by configuration level users using CONFIG-xx.
DISPLAY-xx
This application is used in operational areas where audio and alarm monitoring is required. It
may be password protected to restrict user access. Multiple instances of DISPLAY-xx can be
run simultaneously on the same LAN.
DISPLAY-xx has two levels of functionality. For full operation, a dongle must be connected to
the PC on which it is to be run.
Full Operation (with dongle)
Remote alarm monitoring and reset
User configurable audio metering
Switching of MADI-xx/AM-xx frame audio monitor and audio streaming outputs
Limited Operation (without dongle)
Remote alarm monitoring and reset
DISPLAY-xx can be used independently of CONFIG-xx and can either read existing preconfigured MADI-xx/AM-xx data streams on the LAN or request it’s own stream if none are
available. If no streams are available, all data will be streamed.
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2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 32 Version 0.8
Monitoring level data and alarms
Although only CONFIG-xx has control of the configuration files, DISPLAY-xx allows a 'House
Style' to be maintained for users working in similar areas by using named files to save and
recall ‘style sheet’ settings. These include the colours and break points used for bargraph
ranges, the number of bargraphs visible at one time in the Full Screen display, whether
bargraphs or meters are used to build virtual meter bridges and whether alarms are
combined with the Full Screen bargraph display or only shown in a dedicated Alarms
Wndow.
Note: Administration level users can limit the data monitored by DISPLAY-xx at selected
workstations and from selected frames using CONFIG-xx, for example to only send alarm
data, but not level data.
Virtual Meter Bridge Displays
Parameters monitored by DISPLAY-xxcan include audio level, audio-loss, carrier-loss (when
using AES/EBU inputs) over-level and sustained anti-phase between assigned channel pairs.
Six industry standard audio meter types are supported and each meter can have its own
range colours, break points and reference level.
Note: Illustration is for an AM-xx system.
Channel names, audio formats, alarm sensitivity and meter scale types are normally
assigned using CONFIG-xx and cannot be changed from within DISPLAY-xx. A basic range
of settings can be performed from the MADI-xx/AM-xx frame menu, but only CONFIG-xx
allows Data and Audio stream format configuration.
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2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 33 Version 0.8
Installation Guide
A basic system consists of multiple MADI-xx/AM-xx frames and a single PC connected to a
common LAN. The LAN may be dedicated or form part of a larger system. In the latter case,
care must be taken to ensure that sufficient data capacity is available and that no conflicts
are likely to be encountered with other equipment and services.
The software is supplied on CD-ROM. Follow the installation wizard, which will provide the
options to install either CONFIG-xx or DISPLAY-xx or both applications on the PC. A multiPC installation will typically require CONFIG-xx, and optionally, DISPLAY-xx, to be installed
on one machine for use by the system administrator. Workstation PCs used for monitoring
will then only required DISPLAY-xx to be installed.
Reminder: Only one instance of CONFIG-xx can address the same frames on the same
LAN at a time. A warning is given if an attempt is made to run a second copy of CONFIG-xx.
System requirements
MADI-xx/AM-xx Network:
370 Kbps per monitoring station
85 Kbps for logging
Up to 6.4 Mbps for audio streaming (at full stereo bandwidth)
Subnet routers must pass multi-cast packets
SOFT-xx:
IBM compatible PC running Windows XP (Service Pack 2)
700 kHz Processor Speed or greater
512 Mb RAM
Graphics card supporting DirectX V9.0c (minimum resolution: 1024 x 768)
CD-ROM drive
Network card
USB port
In most cases a low to medium specification computer will suffice, for example a laptop with
a 700MHz processor. At install, only 20 Mbytes of disk space is needed, though more may
be required if numerous logs and configuration files are maintained.
A fresh install of Windows XP SP2/DirectX 9.0C is recommended. A DirectX 9.0C compatible
graphics card is recommended to show the Full Screen bargraph display correctly.
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2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 34 Version 0.8
Initial Setup
Both CONFIG-xx and DISPLAY-xx use IP addresses to communicate with frames. If desired,
IP settings can be entered directly via each MADI-xx/AM-xx on-screen menu.
Alternatively, CONFIG-xx can be used to search for MADI-xx/AM-xx frames on the network
by entering the Network Setup page within itsUtilities menu. The current MADI-xx/AM-xx
network settings can then be changed within Network Setup.
MADI-xx/AM-xx frames may be addressed by CONFIG-xx by selecting the IP address of
each frame in turn and adding them to the frame list.
When several frames are integrated via CONFIG-xx, they will appear within both software
applications as one system rather than as separate frames. For example, audio channels will
appear in numerical sequence starting with channel 1 of frame 1. In a system with four fully
populated AM-xx frames, channel 64 of frame 4 will appear as channel 256.
Before using CONFIG-xx to edit MADI-xx/AM-xx frame settings, it is strongly recommended
that all current configuration settings are saved. This can be done by allowing CONFG-xx to
obtain the frame’s current settings and saving them as explained in the online help file.
Use the online help facility for each application for further information.
Chromatec MADI-xx Problem solving
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 35 Version 0.8
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The power switch should illuminate red whenever mains power is supplied. Always ensure
that power is connected before using the problem solving guide. A spare fuse is supplied in
space provided in the IEC mains connector before the unit leaves the factory. Always replace
the fuse with one of the correct value as shown in the Installation section.
Sample problems and their solutions
There is no videooutput
Check that there is power to the unit and that it is turned on
Check that the video output resolution is not beyond the capability of the display (see answer
to question below)
An output should be seen within a few seconds of switching on
The image appears fuzzy or lacking clarity
If an analogue or digital LCD/Plasma screen is used check that the resolution used is the same
as the native resolution of the panel. This will avoid forcing the panel to rescale the image.
Most panels produce artefacts when their internal scalers are active.
MADI-xxoutput resolution is set using the Screen Resolution function under the System menu.
The image is not centred in the screen
Use the monitor controls to align the image.
If an analogue LCD screen is used use the auto-adjust facility.
A screen extents rectangle can be displayed to assist manual or automatic centering via the
Align Monitor Size/Pos function under the system menu.
Unit fails to respond correctly to commands
Power cycle the unit and/or perform a Master Reset
In the unlikely event that the unit fails to respond correctly, a Master Reset
may be applied to restore all settings to the factory default. Turn off the
power for a few seconds, then turn it back on while pressing both
Fade/Function buttons until the bargraphs appear. This may take up to ten
seconds. Follow any required configuration steps after any reset.
The Monitor Select Cursor cannot be seen
Check that it has not been scrolled off-screen
All alarms and bargraph elements turn on in menu mode
This is done to allow configuration changes to be viewed immediately
Chromatec MADI-xx Problem solving
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 36 Version 0.8
Can I use analogue bargraphs for digital inputs (or digital scales for analogue inputs)?
Yes. The range colours, break points and level references are set for the scale type and NOT
the source assigned.
For example assuming the following settings:
- Analogue scale type: AES/EBU
- Analogue/Digital scale reference: -18dBfs
- Analogue 0dB reference: 0dBu
- Digital upper range point: -18dBfs
- Digital lower range point: -40dBfs
Feeding in analogue 0dBu will produce a level of -18dBfs, with the colour changes occurring at
-40dBfs and -18dBfs.
Changing the Analogue 0dB reference to +4dBu will produce a level of -22dBfs, with the colour
changes unaltered.
Changing the Analogue/Digital reference to -20dBfs (with the anlg ref still at +4dBu) will
produce a level of -24dBfs, with colour changes unaltered.
The same applies to displaying digital channels on an analogue scale; the colour changes will
adhere to the analogue upper and lower settings.
Can bargraphs be assigned to any source and placed in any position on the screen?
Yes, providing Channels are assigned to Bars manually. Refer to the Matrix Setup section of
the SYSTEM menu in the Operation chapter.
What are the digital and analogue bar groups for?
These groups reflect the two different types of external signal type; digital or analogue.
Rules exist to automatically create these groups according to the type of installed external
input card to allow channels in the external input and output buses to be monitored effectively.
The scales used depend on user preferences made in the Scales menu and need not match
signal type.
The rules used are explained in detail in the Analogue and digital groups section of the LEVEL
BARS menu in the Operation chapter.
How can I force channels and bars to 1:1 correspondence so that bars are ordered from
left to right to reflect the default channel numbering?
This is done automatically if the 1:1 option is selected for MADI OUT 1, 2 and EXTERNAL
OUT MATRIX in the Matrix Setup section of the SYSTEM menu in the Operation chapter.
Can digital audio be balanced or unbalanced?
Yes. AES/EBU inputs may be jumper selected per channel to be either balanced or
unbalanced inputs. The settings are set via jumpers on each digital audio input card as
explained in the installation section.
What are the RS232 options?
DTS/RTS select and half/full duplex via jumpers on the rear serial port pcb as explained in the
installation section. Access to this board requires removal of the top cover with power
removed.
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2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 37 Version 0.8
How is audio monitoring streamed?
Audio is streamed using open standard RTSP/RTCP/RTP streaming media protocols and can
be played back by any compliant media player. This includes Quicktime, VLC, and MPlayer.
Others, such as Microsoft Media Player and RealPlayer use their own standards and cannot
be used.
Any player that provides cache control, such as VLC, is good because delay can be minimised.
(To minimise the delay in VLC, go to Settings > Preferences > Input / Codecs > Demuxers >
RTP/RTSP. Tick the Advanced Options, and change the Caching value to 100. Anything less
than this and the player may have problems playing data continuously).
What are the monitor stream URLs?
The URLs to use for listening to the audio monitor streams are:
rtsp://<ip_address>/stream1, rtsp://<ip_address>/stream2, rtsp://<ip_address>/stream3, and
rtsp://<ip_address>/stream4, where ip_address is the IP address of the frame.
What is the recommended network capacity?
Network capacity should be sufficient to carry the intended load. This will be the sum of level
and alarm data together with any streamed audio monitoring data.
The alarm and level data bandwidth required for every monitoring application is up to 370kbps.
The configuration application needs alarm data at 85kbps for logging and every stereo pair
streamed at full bandwidth adds 1.6Mbps.
So, if there are four active monitoring stations and four full-bandwidth audio monitoring streams
the required minimum bandwidth on the network will be nearly 8Mbps.
Lower bit rates can be achieved with lower quality audio steams and/or less alarm or data
information. See the Network Requirements section in the Introduction chapter.
Note: Any routers on the subnet that the frame is connected to must allow multicasting packets
to pass.
Chromatec MADI-xx Specification
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 38 Version 0.8
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Standard I/P format
2 x MADI 64 channel, coaxial & optical
Optional I/P format Analogue, 32 channels, +24 dB capability per card
AES/EBU, balanced / unbalanced, 16 pairs per card
Inputs 32/44.1/48/96 kHz. All 96kHz AES/EBU input channels are
resampled at 48KHz for resynchronisation with the internal clock.
Standard O/P format 2 x MADI 64 channel, coaxial & optical
Optional O/P format
Analogue, 32 channels, +20 dB capability per card
AES/EBU, balanced / unbalanced, 16 pairs per card
Outputs 48 kHz 24 bit
Optional monitor O/P
Any 4 pairs selected from any input, analogue +20 dB capability and
AES/EBU balanced / unbalanced, 48 kHz 24 bit. All 96kHz AES/EBU
sources will be resampled to 48kHz and sent out at 48kHz).
Standard MADI
connectors
Optical type SC & coaxial BNC
Optical interface FDDI Duplex 62.5/125 & 50/125 Multimode compatible. Wavelength
1300nm. Maximum distance 2Km.
Optional audio I/P
connectors
4 x 37 pole, female sub-D for analogue & AES-EBU
Optional audio
monitoring O/P
connectors
1 x 25 pole, male sub-Dfor analogue & 1 x 25 pole, male sub-D for AESEBU
Reference I/P AES/EBU reference
Video output
DVI-I (inc. XGA) supporting 4:3 & 16:9 aspect ratios. Graphical interface
firmware.
Output connector: Microcross DVI-I (Digital DVI and RGBHV via adaptor)
Resolutions supported XGA: 1024x768 @ 60 Hz/48kHz and 1280x768 @
51 Hz/41kHz.
Data I/O
RS232 or RS422: 115Kbps max. Data out, alarms out/reset, parameter
read/set.
USB-2: 6.144MHz max. Data out, alarms out/reset, parameter read/set.
Includes up to 4 pairs compressed audio monitor data.
LAN port: Data out, alarms out/reset, parameter read/set.
Note: For all data O/P audio meter scale/ballistic data are in dB.
Chromatec MADI-xx Specification
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 39 Version 0.8
Scales and Ballistics
NORDIC:
Overall dynamic range: 54dB (+12 to -42dB)
Attack time: 10mSec
Decay time: 1.7Sec per 20dB decay
DIN PPM:
Overall dynamic range: 55dB (+5 to -50dB)
Attack time: 10mSec
Decay time: 1.5Sec per 20dB decay
BBC PPM: Overall dynamic range: 24dB +3dB down "Mark 1" (+12 to
-12dB)
Attack time: 10mSec
Decay time: 2.8Sec per 24dB decay (from "Mark 7" to "Mark 1")
VU: Overall dynamic range: 23dB (+3 to -20dB)
Attack time: 300mSec
Decay time: 300mSec per 20dB decay
VU EXT:
Overall dynamic range: 60dB (+10 to -50dB)
Attack time: 300mSec
Decay time: 300mSec per 20dB decay
AES/EBU:
Overall dynamic range: 60dB (0 to -60dB)
Attack time: < 5ms
Decay time: 1.5Sec per 20dB decay
Phase Correlation
Display
Attack time: 0.4Sec for zero to ±1 deviation
Decay time: 0.4Sec for ±1 to zero deviation
Input dynamic range: 45dB
Minimum input level: -45dBu
Network 370kbps per monitoring station plus
85kbps for logging plus
Up to 6.4Mbps audio streaming (at full stereo bandwidth)
Subnet routers must pass multicast packets
Mechanical 1U 19” Rack Mount box.
Outline Dimensions: 484mm(W) x 355mm(D) x 44.5mm(H)
Weight: 6.75kg (full frame)
Power
Switch-mode PSU: 50W (nominal), 100V - 250V / 47 - 63 Hz auto selected
Environmental
Temperature 0°C to 30°C Humidity 70% max.
Chromatec MADI-xx Specification
2009 Michael Stevens & Partners Ltd 40 Version 0.8
Front controls
Power on/off and PS2 keyboard connector plus removable panel with 6
configuration buttons.
Rear panel
4 x 37 way 'D' type connector for optional audio I/O and 2 x 25 way 'D' type
connectors for audio monitor out.
BNC for AES/EBU frame synchronisation reference.
2 x 9 way ‘D’ type connectors for serial data.
RJ45 connector for LAN.
DVI-I Microcross connector for video out.
USB connector is for fast data access.
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