Clear-Com FreeSpeak Antenna Splitter User Manual

Download

FREESPEAK

DIGITAL WIRELESS

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Version 2.0.2

Part Number 810340Z Rev. 8 Vitec Group Communications LLC

850 Marina Village Parkway Alameda, CA 94501 U.S.A

Vitec Group Communications Ltd 7400 Beach Drive IQ Cambridge Cambridgeshire United Kingdom CB25 9TP

The Vitec Group plc Beijing Representative Office Room 706, Tower B Derun Building, YongAn Dongli A No.3 Jianwai Ave., Chaoyang District Beijing, P.R.China 100022

® Clear-Com, CellCom/FreeSpeak and the Clear-Com Communication Systems logo are registered trademarks of The Vitec Group plc

Website: www.clearcom.com

Vitec Group Communications

SOFTWARE LICENSE

IMPORTANT: CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING BEFORE USING THIS SOFTWARE. USING THE SOFTWARE INDICATES YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT THAT YOU HAVE READ THE FOLLOWING AND AGREE TO ITS TERMS.

IF YOU DO NOT AGREE, RETURN THE SOFTWARE COMPLETE TO VITEC GROUP COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED OR CANCEL THE INSTALLATION.

THIS IS YOUR PROOF THAT YOU HAVE A VALID LICENSE. PLEASE TREAT IT AS VALUABLE PROPERTY.

VITEC GROUP COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED OR VITEC GROUP COMMUNICA TIONS, INC., as the case may be (hereinaf ter referred to as “VGC computer program and files (the “SOFTWARE grant to you a non-exclusive and non-transferable License to use the Software on the following terms. Any new revision or update of the Software provided by VGC to Customer under this License shall be governed by the terms and conditions of this License.

”), offers you this storage media containing a

”) and offers to

1. APPLICATION

a. These terms supersede all prior agreements representations and understandings between you the Customer and VGC and their authorised representatives relating to the subject matter hereof

, the Software) but shall otherwise be subject to Vitec Group

(i.e. Communications Terms and Conditions, as amended from time to time. For the avoidance of doubt, in the event of conflict, these terms shall prevail.

b. No variation to these terms, nor any other terms or conditions proposed by you, shall be of any effect unless recorded in a written document signed by VGC. You confirm that any statement made to the contrary by you or on your behalf shall not apply to this License.

c. You confirm that you are not relying on any statement made by or on behalf of VGC, other than statements recorded in a written document signed by VGC.

d. VGC and its licensors reserve all rights not expressly granted to you. VGC's licensors are intended third party beneficiaries of this Agreement and have the express right to rely upon and directly enforce the terms set forth herein.

e. You agree that the Software belongs to VGC and its licensors. You agree that you neither own nor hereby acquire any claim or right of ownership to the Software or to any related patents,

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2,0 Instruction Manual

copyrights, trademarks or other intellectual property. VGC and its licensors retain all right, title and interest in and to the Software and all copies thereof at all times, regardless of the form or media in or on which the original or other copies may subsequently exist. This license is not a sale of the original or any subsequent copy.

2. COPYRIGHT

a. The copyright and all other rights in the Software produced by VGC shall remain with VGC or its suppliers. You must reproduce any copyright or other notice marked on the Software on any copies that you make.

3. YOU MAY:

a. Use the Software only at a single site location. If you wish to use the Software at more than one site you must contact VGC and if required purchase further Licenses;

b. Make one copy of the Software for archival or back-up purposes, and;

c. Transfer the Software to an end user of a VGC product, only if you have made it clear to VGC that you are not the end user and you assign all of your rights under this License and make no use of the Software yourself.

4. YOU MAY NOT:

a. Use the Software or make copies of it except as permitted in this License;

b. Publish or distribute the computer images, sound files or fonts included with the Software as computer images, sound files or fonts;

c. Translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble the Software, except to the extent the foregoing restriction is exp ressly prohibited by applicable law;

d. Rent, lease, assign or transfer the Software except as set out above; or

e. Modify the Software or merge all or any part of the Software in another program.

5. TERM:

a. This License shall continue for as long as you use the Software. However, it will terminate if you fail to comply with any of its terms or conditions. You agree, upon termination, to destroy all copies of the Software. The Limitations of Warranties and Liability set out below shall continue in force even after any termination.

6. LIMITED WARRANTY:

a. VGC warrants that the storage media in this Software will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for 90 days from the date you acquire it. If such a defect occurs, return it to us at the address below and we will replace it free. This remedy is your exclusive remedy for breach of this warranty.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2,0 Instruction Manual

b. After the initial 90 days, THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE, PERFORMANCE, ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS. This constitutes an essential part of this Lic ense.

7. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY:

a. For the avoidance of doubt, all conditions imposed by law covering matters such as fitness for purpose, compliance to description, negligence and quality are expressly excluded from this agreement and you agree to accept the foregoing warranty in lieu of all such items.

b. IN NO EVENT SHALL VGC BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF DATA OR USE OF DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS, OR FOR INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENT AL, EXEMPLARY, MUL TIPLE, PUNITIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, NEGLIGENCE), WARRANTY, GUARANTEE OR ANY OTHER LEGAL OR EQUITABLE GROUNDS, EVEN IF VGC HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

c. The warranty is personal to you (or end user if you have made it clear that you are not the end user) and may not be transferred (except as permitted expressly above).

d. VGC shall not be a liable for failure to perform any obligation to you where such failure is due to circumstances beyond VGC’s reasonable control.

e. VGC offers extended warranties and, if you are not satisfied

with the above, you should consider such warranties or consider separate insurance.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2,0 Instruction Manual

8. RESTRICTED RIGHTS:

If this Software is acquired by or for the U.S. Government then it is provided with Restricted Rights. Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of The Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013, or subparagraphs (c)(1) and (2) of the Commercial Computer Software - Restricted Rights at 48 CFR 52.227-19, or clause 18-52.227-86(d) of the NASA Supplement to the FAR, as applicable. Contractor/manufacturer: Vitec Group Communications Limited, 7400 Beach Drive, Cambridge, England CB25 9TP or Vitec Group Communications, LLC., 850 Marina Village Parkway, Alameda, CA

94501.

9. OTHER ISSUES:

a. Any failure by VGC to insist on its strict rights under this Agreement shall not be deemed to be a waiver of those (or any

iii

other rights) and only a duly executed written release shall constitute such a waiver.

b. If any of these conditions is deemed invalid or unenforce able the remainder shall be unaffected.

c. VGC's dealings with you shall be governed by English law if you are resident in the EMEA region and California law if you are resident elsewhere. The federal and state courts of California for Non-EMEA Customers and English Courts for EMEA Customers shall have exclusive jurisdiction to adjudicate any dispute arising out of this Agreement.

d. If any document is written in more than one language the English text shall prevail.

e. Capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in Vitec Group Communications' Terms and Conditions, as amended from time to time.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2,0 Instruction Manual

GETTING STARTED: AN INTRODUCTION TO

FREESPEAK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

FreeSpeak Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2

A FreeSpeak Communication System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-3

Important Installation Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

System Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

Default Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

QUICK START. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Creating a Wireless Party Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8

Assigning the Wireless Party Line Label to FreeSpeak Beltpack Keys 2-8

Calling the Wireless Party Line from the Beltpacks . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9

Calling the Wireless Party Line from the 4-Wire Audio Device. . . .2-10

Calling the Wireless Party Line from the Wired Party-Line Beltpack . . 2-11

OPERATING THE FREESPEAK BASESTATION. . 3-1

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

Understanding Front-Panel Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2

Headset Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2

& Channel A Talk Switch and Light/Listen Level Knob . . . . . .3-2

A/B Reply Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

& Channel B Talk Switch and Light/Listen Level Knob . . . . . .3-3

Party Line Channels A and B Enable Switches. . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

Program Audio Enable Switch and Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

Antenna Light Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

Display Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

Setup/Enter Knob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

Power Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

CONNECTING THE FREESPEAK BASESTATION 4-1

Understanding the Back-Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1

IEC Power Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Party Line Channel A Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Party Line Channel B Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Program Input Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Stage Announce Output Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Stage Announce Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

4-Wire Matrix Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

Base Loop Connector (not used). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

LAN Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

PC Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

Transceiver Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

Connecting to Party-Line Intercom Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-4

Clear-Com and Compatible Party-Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-4

Connecting Directly to Clear-Com Party-Line Beltpacks. . . . . . . .4-5

Connecting to an RTS™ Wired Beltpack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6

Front-Panel Adjustments for Party-Line Connections. . . . . . . . . .4-6

Troubleshooting Party-Line Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

Reducing FreeSpeak Beltpack echo when talking to a analogue

party-line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

How to set the microphone gain in the beltpack. . . . . . . . . .4-8

Include the Party-Line channel inside a Wireless Party-Line

group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

How to set the VOX gating level on the Party-Line connected to

the Basestation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

Auto null the Party-Line channel at the Basestation. . . . . . .4-9

Wireless Party Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

Connecting to 4-Wire and Digital Matrix Intercom . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

Connecting with Clear-Com Matrix Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-12

Connecting with Clear-Com Eclipse Digital Matrix . . . . . . . . . . .4-12

Connecting with Other Digital Matrix Intercom Systems. . . . . . .4-13

Connecting with Other 4-Wire Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14

Connecting to a Program Audio Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14

IFB Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-15

Connecting to the Stage Announce Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-16

Connecting to a PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-17

Connecting Via the Serial Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-17

Connecting Via the LAN Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

Connecting to Transceiver/Antennas (FS-TA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

Connecting One Transceiver/Antenna (FS-TA) Directly to A Trans-

ceiver Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

Connecting Transceiver/Antennas with a Splitter (PD2203) . . . .4 -19

Powering an Antenna or Antenna Splitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-20

PROGRAMMING A SYSTEM FROM THE BASESTA-

TION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

A Note About Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Using the Basestation’s Programming Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Saving Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Basestation Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Changing Beltpack Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

Setting and Changing Port Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

Setting and Changing Group Labels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-7

Adding Group Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10

Beltpacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Assigning Labels to Beltpacks Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-11

Setting the Beltpack Audio Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14

Setting Beltpack Latching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14

Setting Beltpack Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15

Setting Beltpack Labels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16

Registering a Beltpack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16

Setting Input and Output Port Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17

Setting Port Call Destination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19

Configuring a Party Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22

Basestation SYSTEM Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-26

System INFO (“INFO”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27

Restoring the Defaults (“DEFAULT”). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27

ANTENNAS (“ANTENNAS”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27

Setting the IP Address (“IP”). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-28

Locking Front-Panel Enable Buttons (“Lock”). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-29

Remote Microphone Kill (“RMK”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-29

Kill Beltpack Microphones (“KILL(BP”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-29

Kill Party Line Microphones (“KILL(PL)”). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-29

Kill All Microphones (“KILL(ALL)”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-30

Battery Indicator (“BATTERY”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-30

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

OPERATING THE FREESPEAK WIRELESS BELT-

PACK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Overview of the Wireless Belpack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-1

Beltpack Top Control Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2

Talk Knobs, Channels A and B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2

Level-Control Lights, Channels A and B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Talk/Listen Lights, Channels A and B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Answer-Back Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Combo Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Beltpack Front/Display Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4

Backlit LCD Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4

iii

Left and Right Scroll Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4

Enter/Answer-Back Button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4

Beltpack Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Beltpack Rear/Battery Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Power Button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Battery Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6

Beltpack Bottom Connector Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6

Data Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6

Headset Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6

Battery Recharger Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7

Beltpack Turn-On Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7

Beltpack Turn-Off Sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7

Powering the FreeSpeak Beltpack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7

Registering Beltpacks with the Basestation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9

Removing Registered Beltpacks from the Basestation. . . . . . . .6-10

Accessing the Talk/Listen Paths on the FreeSpeak Beltpack. . . . .6-10

Setting and Adjusting Listen Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11

Headset Limiter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12

Using the Beltpack Answer-Back Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12

Beltpack Menu Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Alarm Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Low Battery Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Low Signal Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Audio Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Headphone-Off Level Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Page Lock Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Headphone Limiter Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Microphone Type Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Microphone Level Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Headset Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

View Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Role Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Beltpack Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Beltpack ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

RF Carrier Mask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Connection Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-16

Adjust Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-16

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

PROGRAMMING AT THE BELTPACK . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Introduction to Programming on the Beltpack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

Beltpack Programming - Menu Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

Main Programming Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-2

The Alarm Options Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

Switching the Low Battery Alarm ON and OFF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Low Battery Alarm Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Low Battery Alarm On1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Low Battery Alarm On2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Low Battery Alarm Threshold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5

Low Battery Threshold Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5

Switching the Low Signal Strength Alarm ON and OFF . . . . . . . .7-5

The Vibra Call Alert Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5

The Headphone Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-6

Headset Noise Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9

The Microphone Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9

The Status (Information) Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-10

Adjust Contrast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-13

Set Factory Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-14

Tap Latch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-14

Keylock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-15

PTT Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-15

Master Volume Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16

Page Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16

Page Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-17

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

OPERATING THE FREESPEAK TRANS-

CEIVER/ANTENNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Transceiver/Antenna (FS-TA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

FS-TA Top Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

Omnidirectional Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

FS-TA Bottom/Control Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2

Serial Data Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2

Data Signal LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2

Matrix Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2

Power LED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3

DC In Power Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3

Cabling the FS-TA Transceiver/Antennas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3

Beltpack Support Capacities for Transceiver/Antennas . . . . . . . .8-3

Coverage Areas Under Various Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4

Transceiver/Antenna Setup Rules and Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4

Transceiver/Antenna Splitter (PD2203) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5

PD2203 Front Connector Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6

Basestation Connection Indicator Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6

Matrix (FreeSpeak Basestation) Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6

Splitter-to-Transceiver/Antenna Signal Indicator Light . . . . . . .8-6

Transceiver/Antenna Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6

PD2203 Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

Serial Data Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

Power Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

DC IN Power Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

EXP IN Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

EXP OUT Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-7

Connecting an Antenna Split ter to the FreeS peak Basestat ion and to

Transceiver/Antennas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-8

INSTALLING A SYSTEM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Placing the Basestation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1

Placing the Antennas and Splitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1

Wiring the Antennas and Splitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2

Determining Coverage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2

Doing a Site Survey to Determine Coverage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3

Testing Coverage Areas of Individual Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3

Testing Antenna Handoff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-5

Getting Information on Active Antenna Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-6

Assigning Beltpacks to Coverage Areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-7

Conditions Affecting Coverage Areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-7

FREESPEAK CONFIGURATION EDITOR . . . . . . 10-1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1

Loading and Saving Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1

Loading a configuration from disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2

COM port selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2

IP Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2

Retrieving a configuration from a Freespeak basestation via the

Serial Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2

Retrieving a configuration from a Freespeak basestation via Ether-

net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4

Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5

Clear Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5

Send File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5

Uploading configurations Using the Serial Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6

Uploading configurations Using Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6

Beltpacks tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-7

Selecting the beltpack to register or edit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-7

Registering beltpacks Using the Serial Link . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-8

The Overview button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9

The Set Defaults Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9

Read Beltpack Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-10

Write Beltpack Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-10

Remember My Default Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-10

Recall My Default Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-10

Recall Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Headset Limiter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

MIC Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

MIC Gain Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

MIC Noisegate Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Headphone Off Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Sidetone Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Master Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11

Menu Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12

Page Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12

Keytap Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12

RSSI Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12

Low Battery Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-12

Keylock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-13

Call Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-13

Assigning beltpack keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-13

The Reply key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-14

Key assignment types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-15

Latching keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-15

On Page Change Cut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Advanced Menu Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Normal Menu Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Basic Menu Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

None Menu Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Input and output levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-16

Ports tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-17

Selecting the port to edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-17

Changing the label of the port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-18

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

vii

Type drop-down box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-18

Cross Point assignment drop-down box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-18

Input and output levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-19

Groups tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-20

Selecting the group to edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-20

Changing the label of the group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-20

Changing the members of the group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-20

Group Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-21

Antennas tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-21

IFB Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-22

Configuring an IFB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-22

System Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-24

DECT carriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-26

Sys ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-26

System Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-26

FREESPEAK TOOLKIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1

Configuration Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Basestation Serial Firmware Upgrader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1

Beltpack and Antenna Serial Firmware Upgrader. . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Diagnostic Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1

Toolkit Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Beltpack Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7

Entering beltpack serial numbers into the basestation . . . . . . . . 11-7

Entering the basestation system ID into the beltpack . . . . . . . . 11-7

Basestation Serial Upgrader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-8

Upgrading the basestation firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-8

Beltpack Serial Upgrader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-11

Installing the Beltpack Upgader. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-11

Running the Beltpack Upgrader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-13

Basestation Programming Serial Cable Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14

Beltpack Programming Serial Cable Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15

viii

SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

Notice about Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-4

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

GLOSSARY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

APPENDIX A: DECT CARRIER FREQUENCY CHART A-1

APPENDIX B: PROGRAMMING MENUS . . . . . . . . B-1

LIMITED WARRANTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W-I

TECHNICAL SUPPORT & REPAIR POLICY. . . . . W-V

TECHNICAL SUPPORT POLICY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W-v

RETURN MATERIAL AUTHORIZATION POLICY . . . . . . . . . . . . .W-vi

REPAIR POLICY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W-viii

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

FIGURES

Figure 1-1 A FreeSpeak Antenna, Beltpack, and Basestation ........ 1-1

Figure 1-2 A FreeSpeak Digital Wireless Communication System.. 1-3 Figure 1-3 Configurations for a Studio and Large-Scale Broadcast Fa-

cility.................................................................................................. 1-4

Figure 1-4 Default Map Loaded....................................................... 1-5

Figure 1-5 Beltpack Configuration with the Default Map ................. 1-6

Figure 2-1 Connect the FreeSpeak Basestation to the Wired Devices . 2-2 Figure 2-2 Clear the Basestation’s Memory and Enable the Party Line 2-3

Figure 2-3 Overview of Beltpack Operation..................................... 2-4

Figure 3-1 FreeSpeak Basestation Front Panel .............................. 3-2

Figure 4-1 FreeSpeak Basestation Back Panel............................... 4-1

Figure 4-2 VOX Gating Level on Party Line Connection................. 4-8

Figure 4-3 VOX Gate Setting Examples.......................................... 4-9

Figure 4-4 Wireless Party Line Audio Flow.................................... 4-10

Figure 4-5 Front View of RJ-45 Connector.................................... 4-11

Figure 4-6 IFB Audio Path............................................................. 4-15

Figure 4-7 Powering an Antenna Splitter....................................... 4-21

Figure 5-1 Initial Password Request Display................................... 5-3

Figure 5-2 System Password Menu................................................. 5-3

Figure 5-3 System Password Entry................................................. 5-3

Figure 5-4 From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS ................... 5-4

Figure 5-5 Available Beltpacks Menu.............................................. 5-4

Figure 5-6 First Beltpack Programming Options Menu.................... 5-4

Figure 5-7 Second Beltpack Programming Menu............................ 5-5

Figure 5-8 Editing a Beltpack’s Label.............................................. 5-5

Figure 5-9 Select “Ports” from the Main Menu................................. 5-6

Figure 5-10 First Available Ports Menu ........................................... 5-6

Figure 5-11 Second Available Ports Menu...................................... 5-6

Figure 5-12 Port Programming Options Menu................................. 5-6

Figure 5-13 Editing a Port’s Label ................................................... 5-7

Figure 5-14 Standard Group Labels................................................ 5-8

Figure 5-15 Wireless Party Line Group Labels................................ 5-8

Figure 5-16 Select Label from the Menu ......................................... 5-8

Figure 5-17 Group Name Edit Menu................................................ 5-8

Figure 5-18 Group Programming Options Menu ........................... 5-10

Figure 5-19 Adding Members to a Group...................................... 5-10

Figure 5-20 First Beltpack Menu.................................................... 5-11

Figure 5-21 Second Beltpack Menu .............................................. 5-11

Figure 5-22 Assign communication routes (“labels”) to a beltpack key. 5-12

Figure 5-23 Beltpack Display....................................................... 5-12

Figure 5-24 Select the source/destination to assign to that beltpack key 5-13

Figure 5-25 Key Type Menu.......................................................... 5-13

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 5-26 Beltpack Levels Menu................................................ 5-14

Figure 5-27 Beltpack Input Level Setup......................................... 5-14

Figure 5-28 Beltpack Output Level Setup...................................... 5-14

Figure 5-29 Beltpack Latching Menu............................................. 5-15

Figure 5-30 Beltpack Group Editing Menu..................................... 5-15

Figure 5-31 Beltpack Groups Selected.......................................... 5-15

Figure 5-32 Labels Selected on the Beltpack Menu...................... 5-16

Figure 5-33 Beltpack Label Editing Menu...................................... 5-16

Figure 5-34 Beltpack Registration Menu ....................................... 5-17

Figure 5-35 Available Audio Ports Menu....................................... 5-17

Figure 5-36 Selected Port Menu for Level Setting......................... 5-18

Figure 5-37 Port Levels Menu ....................................................... 5-18

Figure 5-38 Port Input Level Setup................................................ 5-18

Figure 5-39 Port Output Level Setup............................................. 5-18

Figure 5-40 Available Audio Ports Menu....................................... 5-19

Figure 5-41 Selected Port Menu for Calls...................................... 5-19

Figure 5-42 Port Call Menu............................................................ 5-19

Figure 5-43 Port Destination Select Menu..................................... 5-20

Figure 5-44 Available Audio Ports Menu....................................... 5-20

Figure 5-45 Selected Port Menu for Calls...................................... 5-20

Figure 5-46 Port Call Menu............................................................ 5-20

Figure 5-47 Port Destination Select Menu..................................... 5-21

Figure 5-48 First Party Line Connection Type Menu..................... 5-22

Figure 5-49 Second Party Line Connection Type Menu................ 5-22

Figure 5-50 Party Line Noisegate Menu........................................ 5-23

Figure 5-51 Party Line Noisegate Options Menu........................... 5-23

Figure 5-52 Party Line Noisegate Trigger Level............................ 5-23

Figure 5-53 VOX Delay Setup....................................................... 5-23

Figure 5-54 Level Editing Menu for Party Line .............................. 5-24

Figure 5-55 Party Line Input Level................................................. 5-24

Figure 5-56 Party Line Output Level.............................................. 5-24

Figure 5-57 Party Line LoNULL Level ........................................... 5-25

Figure 5-58 Party Line HiNULL Level............................................ 5-25

Figure 5-59 System Menu 1 .......................................................... 5-26

Figure 5-60 System Menu 2 .......................................................... 5-26

Figure 5-61 System Menu 3 .......................................................... 5-26

Figure 5-62 System Info Menu ...................................................... 5-27

Figure 5-63 Restore Defaults Menu............................................... 5-27

Figure 5-64 ANTENNAS menu...................................................... 5-27

Figure 5-65 IP Address Menu........................................................ 5-28

Figure 5-66 Lock Enable Menu...................................................... 5-29

Figure 5-67 Remote MIC Kill Menu .............................................. 5-29

Figure 5-68 Battery Level Menu ................................................... 5-30

Figure 6-1 Overview of Beltpack Functions..................................... 6-1

Figure 6-2 View of Top of Beltpack.................................................. 6-2

Figure 6-3 View of Front of Beltpack ............................................... 6-4

Figure 6-4 View of Back of Beltpack................................................ 6-5

Figure 6-5 View of Bottom of Beltpack ............................................ 6-6

Figure 6-6 Battery Discharge Characteristics.................................. 6-8

Figure 6-7 How the beltpack displays its six communication routes......

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

6-10

Figure 7-1 Connection Information Display ................................... 7-12

Figure 8-1 FreeSpeak Transceiver/Antenna.................................... 8-1

Figure 8-2 FreeSpeak Transceiver/Antenna Bottom/Control Panel 8-2

Figure 8-3 FreeSpeak Splitter Front Connector Panel .................... 8-6

Figure 8-4 FreeSpeak Splitter Rear Connector Panel..................... 8-7

Figure 9-1 A Beltpack’s Site Survey Screen.................................... 9-4

Figure 9-2 Mapping overlapping coverage zones............................ 9-5

Figure 9-3 ANTNS menu................................................................. 9-6

Figure 10-1 Configuration Editor Initial Screen.............................. 10-1

Figure 10-2 Map Select Screen..................................................... 10-2

Figure 10-3 Configuration Editor Serial Timeout ........................... 10-3

Figure 10-4 Configuration Setup.................................................... 10-3

Figure 10-5 Map Upload Progress................................................. 10-4

Figure 10-6 Configuration Editor Ethernet Timeout....................... 10-4

Figure 10-7 Configuration Setup.................................................... 10-5

Figure 10-8 Beltpacks Tab............................................................. 10-7

Figure 10-9 Beltpack List............................................................... 10-7

Figure 10-10 Beltpack Label.......................................................... 10-8

Figure 10-11 Registering a Beltpack ............................................. 10-8

Figure 10-12 Beltpack Serial Number............................................ 10-9

Figure 10-13 Beltpack Overview.................................................... 10-9

Figure 10-14 Beltpack Defaults Setup......................................... 10-10

Figure 10-15 Beltpack Page Number .......................................... 10-13

Figure 10-16 Beltpack Key Assignments..................................... 10-14

Figure 10-17 Input and Output Levels......................................... 10-17

Figure 10-18 Ports Tab................................................................ 10-17

Figure 10-19 Party Line Port Type Menu..................................... 10-18

Figure 10-20 Cross Point List for Port ......................................... 10-19

Figure 10-21 Party Line Crosspoint Type.................................... 10-19

Figure 10-22 Groups Tab ............................................................ 10-20

Figure 10-23 Group Overview Display......................................... 10-21

Figure 10-24 Antennas Tab......................................................... 10-21

Figure 10-25 Antenna Cable Length Setup................................. 10-22

Figure 10-26 IFB Configuration Tab............................................ 10-22

Figure 10-27 IFB Selection List ................................................... 10-23

Figure 10-28 Dim Level List......................................................... 10-23

Figure 10-29 System Tab............................................................ 10-24

Figure 10-30 Password Entry...................................................... 10-24

Figure 10-31 Password Entered.................................................. 10-25

Figure 10-32 Country Setup ........................................................ 10-25

Figure 11-1 Previous Version Uninstall ......................................... 11-2

Figure 11-2 Toolkit Install Startup.................................................. 11-3

Figure 11-3 Toolkit Installer Names............................................... 11-3

Figure 11-4 Toolkit Installation Path.............................................. 11-4

Figure 11-5 Toolkit Start Menu Setup............................................ 11-5

Figure 11-6 Toolkit Install Confirm................................................. 11-6

Figure 11-7 Installation Completion Display.................................. 11-6

Figure 11-8 Upgrading Basestation Firmware............................... 11-8

Figure 11-9 Select Firmware File................................................... 11-9

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

iii

Figure 11-10 Firmware Download ................................................. 11-9

Figure 11-11 Download Timeout ................................................. 11-10

Figure 11-12 Beltpack Upgrader Installation Start....................... 11-11

Figure 11-13 Set Installation Directory ........................................ 11-11

Figure 11-14 Beltpack Upgrader Program Group........................ 11-12

Figure 11-15 Installer Version Conflict......................................... 11-12

Figure 11-16 Installation Completed............................................ 11-13

Figure 11-17 Beltpack Upgrader Startup..................................... 11-13

Figure 11-18 Beltpack Upgrade Progress ................................... 11-13

Figure B-1 Programming Menus...................................................... B-1

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

TABLES

Table 4-1 Party Line Pinout............................................................. 4-4

Table 4-2 FreeSpeak Basestation 4-Wire Pinout .......................... 4-12

Table 4-3 Pinouts for Connecting to Other Digital Matrix Intercom Sys-

tems............................................................................................... 4-13

Table 4-4 IFB Key Configurations.................................................. 4-15

Table 4-5 Pin Assignments for Stage Announce Connector ......... 4-16

Table 4-6 Pinout for Cable to Upgrade Basestation Firmware...... 4-17

Table 4-7 Pinout for Cable to Upgrade Beltpack Firmware........... 4-18

Table 7-1 Connection Information ................................................. 7-12

Table 9-1 How antennas are numbered.......................................... 9-6

Table 11-1 Null-Modem Cable Pinout.......................................... 11-14

Table 11-2 Beltpack Programming Serial Cable Pinout .............. 11-15

Table A-1 DECT Carrier Frequency Chart....................................... A-1

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Please read and follow these instructions before operating a FreeSpeak wireless communication system. Keep these instructions for future reference.

(1) WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

(2) Do not use the apparatus near water. (3) Clean only with a dry cloth.

Please read and follow these instructions before operating a FreeSpeak wireless communication system.

(4) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Install the FreeSpeak wireless communication system according to the directions in the Installation Chapter of this manual.

(5) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Do not place naked flame sources such as candles on or near the matrix.

(6) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other . A grounding-type plug h as two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety . If the provided pl ug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

(7) Protect power leads from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, at convenience receptacles, and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.

Note: A “convenience receptacle” is an extra AC power outlet located on the back of a piece of equipment, intended to allow you to power other equipment.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

(8) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

(9) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or t able specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

(10) Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

(11) Refer all se rvicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing i s required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as a 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.

(12) The FreeSpeak wireless communication system contains a non-user serviceable battery.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Lithium batteries can overheat or explode if they are shorted. When you handle the CPU card or a loose battery, DO NOT touch any external electrical conductors to the battery’s terminals or to the circuits that the terminals are connected to.

Please familiarize yourself with the safety symbols in Figure 1. When you see these symbols on a FreeSpeak wireless communication system, they warn you of the potential danger of electric shock if the system is used improperly. They also refer you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the manual.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This symbol alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s enclosure that might be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock. Do not open the product’s case.

This symbol informs you that important operating and maintenance instructions are included in the literature accompanying this product.

Safety Symbols

EMC AND SAFETY

The FreeSpeak wireless communication system meets all relevant CE, FCC, UL, and CSA specifications set out below:

EN55103-1 Electromagnetic compatibility. Product family standard for audio, video, audio-visual, and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use. Part 1: Emissions.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

EN55103-2 Electromagnetic compatibility. Product family standard for audio, video, audio-visual, and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use. Part 2: Immunity.

BS EN 60065:2002 Audio, video, and similar electronic apparatu s. Safety requirements.

And thereby compliance with the requirement of Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/336/EEC and Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

iii

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

GETTING STARTED:

A FreeSpeak system consists of three basic elements: the basestation, wireless beltpack, and antenna.

AN INTRODUCTION TO FREESPEAK

With a FreeSpeak wireless beltpack users can roam freely around a studio or production facility while talking and listening to all, or selected, members of the production team. With its six communication routes, the beltpack gives users the flexibility to communicate quickly and seamlessly with individuals or groups, and to change communication routes as often as needed.

The award-winning FreeSpeak® technology, the world’s first wireless system to include local route programming, crosspoint level control, groups, and full non-blocking mixing facilities.

The system operates in the unlicensed 1.90 GHz band. With its unique and innovative digital technology, which continually searches for unused radio frequency (RF) channels, FreeSpeak avoids the noise and interference issues associated with traditional wireless systems using congested UHF and VHF bands.

With the basic three elements the user can design a digital wireless system for specific requirements.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 1-1: A FreeSpeak Antenna, Beltpack, and Basestation

FreeSpeak allows a wireless system to be set up specifically t ailored to local needs by locating antennas and beltpacks in areas where they are needed most. And because the beltpacks operate in the unlicensed 1.90 GHz frequency spectrum, there is no interference with existing wireless systems, even those located in the same production area.

FreeSpeak may be used stand-alone or connected with party-line and/or digital matrix intercom systems. The basestation holds

1-1

The FreeSpeak basestation functions as a full-duplex digital matrix switcher and router for voice communications.

Each antenna can support communications with up to five wireless beltpacks operating within its coverage zone.

connections for several wired interfaces, including party lines, 4-wire sources, a program audio source, and a stage announce output device. When wired to the basestation, these devices communicate seamlessly with the wireless beltpacks. Party-line beltpacks and 4-wire matrix stations and panels can key directly to wireless beltpack by name.

FREESPEAK FEATURES

Features of FreeSpeak include:

• Basestation in one rack unit (1 RU).

• Up to twenty wireless beltpacks.

• Point-to-point and small group wireless communications.

• Up to six communication routes per beltpack.

• Party-line beltpacks, 4-wire devices, program audio source, and stage announce output seamlessly included in communication system.

• IFB functionality with up to five IFB audio sources configurable on the

basestation.

• Up to five standard groups configurable on the basestation.

• Up to five wireless party line groups configurable on the basestation.

• Up to ten remote transceiver/antennas create custom coverage zones.

• Transceiver/antennas can be located u p to 1,0 00 meters (3 ,200 feet) using 24 AWG cable or up to 500 meters (1,600feet) using 26 AWG cable over CAT-5 cable from the basestation avoiding expensive RF cable.

Note: It is recommended that shielded CAT-5 cable is used for all

FreeSpeak installation.

• Five-character labels for each beltpack and wired connection.

• Communication groups can be created, customized, and assigned to beltpack keys.

• License-free operation in the 1.90 GHz band—above television and other wireless communications.

• Frequency-hopping DECT technology automatically finds clear spectrum.

• Base functions like a digital matrix; each beltpack has a “virtual port” timeslot.

• Secure system—beltpacks are registered to a particular base and can frequency hop.

1-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

• Two bases can connect locally via 4 wire ports or Party-lines only.

Figure 1-2: A FreeSpeak Digital Wireless Communication System

A FREESPEAK COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

A FreeSpeak system consists of three basic elements:

• The wireless beltpacks.

• The basestation that routes communication to and from wireless beltpacks and other audio devices.

• The transceiver/antennas that provide custom coverage zones in which four to five beltpacks can operate. Beltpacks can roam freely between coverage zones.

FreeSpeak operates using a cellular network of antennas located around a working environment. The antennas connect directly to the FreeSpeak basestation with CAT-5 cable. Each antenna provides an area or “cell” in which four to five full-duplex beltpacks can operate. Figure 1-2 above shows an example configuration.

Beltpacks can roam among and between cells without dropping off because each antenna continually signals a beltpack as to the strongest available signal. When the signal from an antenna starts to diminish due to the distance from a beltpack, the beltpack automatically “hands off” its signal to the nearest antenna, ensuring smooth transfer.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

1-3

Figure 1-3: Configurations for a Studio and Large-Scale Broadcast Facility

Using an antenna splitter allows up to five antennas to be connected to one base-station antenna port. A single FreeSpeak basestation supports up to twenty beltpacks and up to ten antennas, giving a great deal of flexibility in placing beltpacks where they are needed most, and for providing wireless reliability. Figure 1-3 illustrates how a FreeSpeak system can be set up to operate in a single studio or in a large-scale permanent broadcast facility.

Note: Each antenna is designed to handle five beltpacks

simultaneously in good conditions. However, if interference or propagation problems occur in an area, to ensure proper operation and reliability, it may be more practical to install four beltpacks for each antenna.

For zones which are likely to need coverage for five or more beltpacks simultaneously it is recommended that a second antenna is installed. Similarly , for good coverage for nin e or more beltpacks simult aneously, a third antenna may be required.

1-4

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

IMPORTANT INSTALLATION INFORMATION

System Password

From release V2.0 onwards FreeSpeak basestations require a password to be input in order to activate the base st ation when it is first configured. The password requires the unique basestation system ID and will normally be supplied with the installation CD for a new unit. If an existing basestation is upgraded the basestation system ID must be provided before an upgrade CD can be supplied.

Default Map

In V2.0 a default map has been added to help the first time user; the map is designed to work like a simple party-line system.

Note that the analogue party-line ports are not included in the default map as they would introduce an echo into the audio.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 1-4: Default Map Loaded

The Figure 1-4 above shows the default map on the configuration editor; the two WPL (wireless party-lines) are programmed on the first page and the other page are lef t un-programmed and will not be shown on the beltpack.

1-5

Figure 1-5: Beltpack Configuration with the Default Map

Figure 1-5 shows how each beltpack key will be configured by the default map.

1-6

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

QUICK START

The following exercise demonstrates how to set up a simple configuration of wired and wireless devices in a FreeSpeak system. The user should have some familiarity with how FreeSpeak operates before attempting this exercise. If not, please read through the manual first, and then do the exercise.

To complete the exercise the following equipment will be needed. The goal is to establish communication between these devices:

• A FreeSpeak system including two wireless beltpacks, an antenna, and a basestation.

This exercise demonstrates how to set up a simple configuration.

In this exercise establi s h communication between a group of wired and wireless devices.

• A 4-wire audio source, such as an Eclipse matrix.

• A wired beltpack, such as a Clear-Com 501 or 601 beltpack.

Specifically, this quick-start exercise shows how to:

• Wire the FreeSpeak basestation to a party-line beltpack, a 4-wire audio source, and a FreeSpeak antenna.

• Assign labels to two FreeSpeak beltpacks.

• From the FreeS peak basestation, create a group containing the wired and wireless devices.

• Initiate calls between members of the group.

Note: For a quick overview of the FreeSpeak programming

menus, refer to Appendix 2.

CONNECTING THE BASESTATION

To connect the FreeSpeak basestation to a party-line beltpack

1. Make sure the FreeSpeak basestation is powered off.

2. Connect an XLR cable from the “PL CH-A” connector on the rear of

the FreeSpeak ba sestation to a wired p arty-line beltpack, such as an RS-601 (connection 1). See Figure 2-1 for an illustration.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Note: Externally powered party-line equipment, FreeSpeak

splitters, and FreeSpeak active antennas should always be connected and powered up before powering the FreeSpeak basestation.

To Connect the FreeSpeak Basestation to a 4-wire matrix port

1. Connect a CAT-5 cable from the FreeSpeak basestation’s leftmost

4-wire audio port (labeled “4-Wire/Eclipse Ports”) to an external 4-wire audio source, such as an Eclipse matrix port (connection 2). See Figure 2-1 for an illustration (shielded CAT-5 is recommend ed).

2-1

Always power up external party-line equipment, FreeSpeak splitters, and FreeSpeak active antennas before powering the FreeSpeak basestation.

To Connect the FreeSpeak Basestation to an Antenna

1. Connect a CAT-5 cable from transceiver port 1 on the FreeSpeak basestation’s rear panel to a FreeSpeak antenna (connection 3). See Figure 2-1 for an illustration (shielded CAT-5 is recommend ed).

2. Power up the basestation.

3. Power up the beltpacks. If the beltpacks do not connect to the basest ation within 30 seconds,

check that they are registered to the basestation. If they are not, refer to the chapter “FreeSpeak Configuration Editor” for instructions on registering the beltpacks to the basestation.

Party-Line Beltpack

FreeSpeak Antenna

Eclipse Matrix

Channel A

Connect XLR cable to party-line beltpack

POWER

90-260V, 50/60Hz 80 Watts

PL CH-A PL CH-B

Connect CAT-5 cable to 4-wire audio source

Connect CAT-5 cable to FreeSpeak antenna

PRGM IN

SA OUT

SA RLY

4-WIRE / ECLIPSE PORTS

2 3

BASE

LAN

LOOP

PC PROGRAM

TRANSCEIVER

FreeSpeak Base Station Rear Panel

Figure 2-1: Connect the FreeSpeak Basestation to the Wired Devices

4. To get the FreeSpeak into a “clean” state for the example below, from the basestation’s front-panel display, scroll to and select PORTS, then 4WIR1, then CALLS, then NONE (NONE is the last element in the list.). Then also select PORTS, then PLCHA, then CALLS, then NONE (See Figure 2-2).

2-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 2-2: Clear the Basestation’s Memory and Enable the Party Line

5. Enable the party line by pressing the CH A enable button on the base staton’s front pan el until the CH A enab le light illuminates (See Figure 2-2). Auto-nulling should be performed after the party line circuit is connected. Pressing and holding the enable button activates the auto-nulling.

Note: Be aware that a loud tone is generated in the party-line

beltpack’s headset during auto-nulling. This tone enables the basestation to perform auto-nulling of the party line.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

2-3

OVERVIEW OF BELTPACK OPERATION

2-4

Figure 2-3: Overview of Beltpack Operation

ASSIGNING LABELS TO THE FREESPEAK BELTPACKS

To assign a name (“label”) to FreeSpeak beltpack #1

1. From the basestation’s front-p anel display, use the setup/enter knob to select BELTPACKS, then BPK01, and then LABEL.

Rotate the setup/enter knob until the desired item is highlighted. Press the knob in to select the item.

2. Rotate the setup/enter knob again to select the alphanumeric character to be edited, then push the setup/enter knob in to select

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

the character. Rotate the knob to select the character to replace it with. Press the knob in to select the new character.

3. When selecting characters for the beltpack’s item label is complete press the setup/enter knob again to save.

4. To exit the menu, select and then deselect (by pressing the knob again) the fifth character in the menu.

5. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob is pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

6. Repeat this entire process for the second wireless beltpack, BPK02.

CREATING A GROUP

To create a group

1. From the basestation’s front panel, use the setup/enter knob to scroll to and select GROUPS, then GP#01, then MEMBERS.

If entries in the MEMBERS menu are already in the group these menu entries are outlined. An outline around a menu entry means that it is a member of the group. When an item is selected an outline appears around it. When the item is selected again, the outline disappears.

2. Select the following members of the group: 4WIR1, PLCHA, BPK01, BPK02, so that only these entries are outlined.

3. To exit the Group Members menu, scroll to and select BACK from the basestation’s front-panel menu.

4. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

ASSIGNING THE GROUP LABEL TO FREESPEAK BELTPACK KEYS

The next step is to assign the group label created in the prevous step, GP#01, to the first key of each of the FreeSpeak wireless beltpacks.

T o assign the group label to the first key of FreeS peak bel tp ack #1

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu select BELTPACKS, then BPK01, then KEYS. A list will be displayed showing how the 3 pages of 2 keys are currently assigned on beltpack #1.

2. Select “Pg1-1” to edit the first key of the first page. A list of destinations will be displayed this key can be assigned to. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise until “GP#01” is highlighted, then press the knob to select it. The basestation’s display should display the key options.

• TLK - talk key

2-5

• LIS - listen key

• T+L - talk and listen key

• DTL - dual talk and listen key

• FL - forced listen key

• TFL - talk and forced listen key

3. Select DTL using the setup/enter knob and press the knob to select it.

4. Select BACK, then BACK again to return to the list of beltpacks.

5. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

6. Repeat the procedure for beltpack #2.

CALLING THE GROUP FROM THE BELTPACKS

To call the group from beltpack #1

1. If beltpack #1 is not set to page #1 (indicated by the numbers in the center of the display), use the beltpack’s left and right scroll buttons to move to page 1.

The label under the left-hand rotary controller should now read GRP01.

2. If the key is programmed to DTL on the basestation press the rotary controller briefly to latch the listen path to “on” or press and hold the rotary controller to talk.

2-6

• The red talk light and green listen light next to the rotary controller should light.

• If the path is latched to Listen pressing and releasing the rotary controller will delete the path and the red and green lights will extinguish.

• If the rotary controller is being held to create a talk path releasing it will delete the path. The red and green lights will be extinguished when the talk path is deleted.

• Examine the wired beltpack attached to party-line channel A. It should be possible to hear audio from beltpack #1 in the wired beltpack’s headset. If the microphone of the wired beltpack is opened the wireless beltpack should also be able to hear the audio.

• The 4-wire device should have 2-way audio. The wireless beltpack should be able to hear audio from the 4-wire device, and the 4-wire device should be able to hear audio from the wireless beltpack.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

• Examine wireless beltpack #2. If it is on page #1, the green (listen) light should be flashing and it should be possible to hear audio from beltpack #1. At this point, beltpack #1 won’t be able to hear audio from beltpack #2.

3. Press the leftmost rotary knob on beltpack #2, which is next to the flashing green light.

All stations are able to hear beltpack #2 as well as beltpack #1. In other words, all stations can hear each other.

4. Press the leftmost rotary controllers on beltpacks #1 and #2 briefly to unlatch them. This deactivates all talk and listen paths.

CALLING THE GROUP FROM THE 4-WIRE AUDIO DEVICE

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu, select PORTS, then 4WIR1, then CALLS, then GP#01.

The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

• All stations should now be able to hear the audio coming in from the 4-wire device.

• On the two wireless beltpacks, the green (listen) lights should be flashing, indicating an incoming call to group #1 from a member of group #1.

2. Note that if the basestation is power cycled off and on again, the talk paths from the 4-wire device are automatically re-established to the wired beltpack and to the two wireless beltpacks.

3. It is possible to remove the talk paths from the 4-wire device to the wired beltpack and to the two wireless beltpacks by selecting PORTS, then 4WIR1, then CALLS, then NONE, from the basestation’s front-panel menu.

4. Note that if the calling 4-wire port is included in the group that is being called from the 4-wire device the 4-wire audio will not be looped back to itself.

CALLING THE GROUP FROM THE WIRED PARTY-LINE BELTPACK

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu, select PORTS, then PLCHA, then CALLS, then GP#01.

2. Ater a few seconds, when the wireless beltpacks reconnect, talk from the wired beltpack’s microphone.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

2-7

• Audio from the wired beltpack should be audible on the two wireless belpacks, and on the 4-wire audio device.

On the wireless beltpacks. the green (listen) light should be flashing, indicating an incoming call to group #1 from a member of group #1.

• Audio from the 4-wire audio device will be audible from the wired beltpack’s headset.

3. If the basestation is powered down and then up again, the talk paths from the wired beltpack (on party-line channel A) are re-established to the 4-wire device and to the two wireless beltpacks.

4. It is possible to remove the talk paths from the wired beltpack’ s party line to the other devices by selecting PORTS, then PLCHA, then CALLS, then NONE.This may also be done by disabling the party line from the front panel of the FreeSpeak basestation by using the CH A and CH B enable buttons provided that the party line is powered from the basestation as this will remove the power rather than the audio. It will not remove the talk paths if the party line is externally powered.

CREATING A WIRELESS PARTY LINE

To create a wireless party line

1. From the basestation’s front panel, use the setup/enter knob to scroll to and select GROUPS, then WP#01, then MEMBERS.

If entries in the MEMBERS menu are already in the wireless party line these menu entries are outlined. An outline around a menu entry means that it is a member of the wireless party line. When an item is selected an outline appears around it. When the item is selected again, the outline disappears.

2. Select the following members of the wireless partry line: 4WIR1, PLCHA, BPK01, BPK02, so that only these entries are outlined.

3. To exit the Wireless Party Line Members menu, scroll to and select BACK from the basestation’s front-panel menu.

ASSIGNING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE LABEL TO FREESPEAK BELTPACK KEYS

The next step is to assign the wireless party line label created in the previous step, WP#01, to the first key of each of the FreeSpeak wireless beltpacks.

2-8

To assign the wireless party line label to the first key of FreeSpeak beltpack #1

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu select BELTPACKS, then BPK01, then KEYS. A list will be displayed showing how the 3 pages of 2 keys are currently assigned on beltpack #1.

2. Select “Pg1-1” to edit the first key of the first page. A list of destinations will be displayed this key can be assigned to. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise until “WP#01” is highlighted, then press the knob to select it. The basestation’s display should display the key options.

• TLK - talk key

• LIS - listen key

• T+L - talk and listen key

• DTL - dual talk and listen key

• FL - forced listen key

• TFL - talk and forced listen key

3. Select DTL using the setup/enter knob and press the knob to select it.

4. Select BACK, then BACK again to return to the list of beltpacks.

6. Repeat the procedure for beltpack #2.

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE BELTPACKS

To call the wireless party line from beltpack #1

1. If beltpack #1 is not set to page #1 (indicated by the numbers in the center of the display), use the beltpack’s left and right scroll buttons to move to page 1.

The label under the left-hand rotary controller should now read WPL01.

2. If the key is programmed to DTL on the basestation press the rotary controller briefly to latch the listen path to “on” or press and hold the rotary controller to talk.

• The red talk light and green listen light next to the rotary controller should light.

• If the path is latched to Listen pressing and releasing the rotary controller will delete the path and the red and green lights will extinguish.

• If the rotary controller is being held to create a talk path releasing it will delete the path. The red and green lights will be extinguished when the talk path is deleted.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

2-9

• Examine the wired beltp ack at t ached to p a rty-line ch annel A. It should be possible to hear audio from beltpack #1 in the wired beltpack’s headset. If the microphone of the wired beltpack is opened the wireless beltpack should also be able to hear the audio.

3. Press the leftmost rotary knob on beltpack #2, which is next to the flashing green light.

All stations are able to hear beltpack #2 as well as beltpack #1. In other words, all stations can hear each other.

4. Press the leftmost rotary controllers on beltpacks #1 and #2 briefly to unlatch them. This deactivates all talk and listen paths.

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE 4-WIRE AUDIO DEVICE

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu, select PORTS, then 4WIR1, then CALLS, then WP#01.

The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob is pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

• All stations should now be able to hear the audio coming in from the 4-wire device.

• On the two wireless beltpacks, the green (listen) lights should be flashing, indicating an incoming call to wireless party line #1 from a member of wireless party line #1.

2. Note that if the basestation is power cycled off and on again, the talk paths from the 4-wire device are automatically re-established to the wired beltpack and to the two wireless beltpacks.

4. Note that if the calling 4-wire port is included in the wireless party line that is being called from the 4-wire device the 4-wire audio will not be looped back to itself.

2-10

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE WIRED PARTY-LINE BELTPACK

1. From the basestation’s front-panel menu, select PORTS, then PLCHA, then CALLS, then WP#01.

2. After a few seconds talk from the wired beltpack’s microphone.

• Audio from the wired beltpack should be audible on the two wireless beltpacks, and on the 4-wire audio device.

On the wireless beltpacks. the green (listen) light should be flashing, indicating an incoming call to wireless party line #1 from a member of wireless party line #1.

• Audio from the 4-wire audio device will be audible from the wired beltpack’s headset.

3. If the basestation is powered down and then up again, the talk paths from the wired beltpack (on party-line channel A) are re-established to the 4-wire device and to the two wireless beltpacks.

4. It is possible to remove the talk paths from the wired beltpack’ s party line to the other devices by selecting PORTS, then PLCHA, then CALLS, then NONE. This may also be done by disabling the party line from the front panel of the FreeSpeak basestation by using the CH A and CH B enable buttons provided that the party line is powered from the basestation as this will remove the power rather than the audio. It will not remove the talk paths if the party line is externally powered.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

2-11

2-12

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

OPERATING THE

FREESPEAK BASESTATION

INTRODUCTION

The FreeSpeak basestation provides all of the intelligence and signal routing for the FreeSpeak digital wireless intercom system. The basestation is effectively a full-duplex digital matrix communications system, with virtual “ports” for the wireless beltpacks rather than physical ports.

In its memory, the basestation contains all of the labels and communications paths assigned to each FS-BP beltpack, and this information is sent to the beltpacks via the FS-T A transceive r/antennas as soon as they are switched on and recognized by the base.

The basestation also functions as the interface between wired and wireless communication devices. The two party-line intercom connectors, four 4-Wire connectors, and program input/stage-announce output each have their own full-duplex time slot. They can be labeled, added to communication groups, and assigned to beltpacks as desired. Additionally the program input o r one of the four 4-Wire connections can be assigned as IFB sources on the basestation.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

3-1

UNDERSTANDING FRONT-PANEL OPERATION

Figure 3-1: FreeSpeak Basestation Front Panel

Headset Connector

The 4-pin male XLR-type headset socket connects to Clear-Com headsets and other headsets with 4-pin female connectors. This headset connector is for the onboard two-channel intercom, with controls just to the right of the connector.

& Channel A Talk Switch and Light/Listen

Level Knob

The channel A talk switch and associated light, and listen level knob, allow full-duplex conversations with any FreeSpe ak wireless beltpacks or other communications systems wired to the rear of the basestation to which the onboard Channel A has been assigned. Assignments are done via the front-panel programming.

The talk switch is momentary/latching, such that pressing it and holding down will create a talk path that ends when the user releases the switch, while quickly tapping it will latch the talk, and a second tap will release it. The LED lights red when a talk is active.

Turning the listen level knob clockwise will allow the user to hear the other party’s voice, increasing the level to maximum when fully clockwise.

The audio level is shown on the beltpack screen next to the battery display.

3-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

A/B Reply Button

Pressing this button will reply to the last caller to call A or B.

& Channel B Talk Switch and Light/Listen

Level Knob

The channel B talk switch and associated light, and listen level knob, function the same as the controls for Channel A.

Party Line Channels A and B Enable Switches

The channel A and channel B enable switches and associated lights activates the power only on the rear-panel to party-line intercom channels A and B. Activating one or both of these switches enables the power to that party line but does not affect the audio to the party line which is always connected. These switches may be “locked” via the front-panel SYSTEM programming menu so that they may not be disengaged accidentally.

If the button is held in for more than 8 seconds autonulling mode will be enabled for the current party line and the following message will be displayed:

“Release button to begin autonulling” When the button is release the basestation will perform an autonulling

on the current party line. On completion the following message will b e displayed:

“Party line A Autonulling complete” for party line A.

Program Audio Enable Switch and Light

This latching switch makes any program audio signal that enters via the rear-panel line-level 3-pin XLR connector available to be assigned to wireless beltpacks, either separately or mixed with communications groups. This switch may be “locked” via the front-panel SYSTEM programming menu so that it may not be disengaged accidentally.

Antenna Light Display

These green LEDs, one for each of the ten antennas that the base will support, light when an antenna is connected and ready.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

3-3

Display Screen

The display screen shows all of the menus and programming options that are available within the FreeSpeak system. The user can select a particular beltpack and view all of its current t alk/listen assignment s, or see all of the current members of a particular group. Via the screen and rotary encoder, labels (5-character user names) can be created and/or changed, new members assigned to groups, input and output levels adjusted, and so on.

Setup/Enter Knob

The setup/enter knob is used to scroll through the various menu options within the FreeS pea k basestation, in order to discover specific information regarding users or to program communications routes and groups. Turning the knob clockwise scrolls display items toward the right, and turning the knob counterclockwise scrolls display items toward the left.

When a desired menu item is highlighted, pushing the setup/enter knob inward will select that item. The lists of available beltpacks and groups typically span two or more screens, so when the highlight is at the leftmost or rightmost part of the screen and the user continues to turn the rotary encoder in that direction, the display will jump to the next screen selections (Example: in the beltpack sections, the first screen shows beltpacks 1 through 5, and the second shows 6 through

10.)

Pressing and holding the Setup/Enter knob for more than three seconds will return the display to the battery monitor.

Power Switch

The power switch will turn the FreeSpeak basestation on and off.

3-4

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

CONNECTING THE

The FreeSpeak basestation connects to several wired interfaces that can communicate with the wireless beltpacks.

FREESPEAK BASESTATION

The FreeSpeak basestation connects to the following wired interfaces through its rear-panel connectors:

• Basestation to AC power

• Basestation to party-line channels A and B

• Basestation to program audio source

• Basestation to stage announce output

• Basestation to stage announce relay

• Basestation to 4-wire matrix ports

• Basestation to a second basestation (not used)

• Basestation to a PC

• Basestation to transceiver antennas

POWER

90-260V, 50/60Hz 80 Watts

UNDERSTANDING THE BACK-PANEL CONNECTORS

PL CH-A PL CH-B

1 - Power Connector 2 - Party Line Channel A Connectors 3 - Party Line Channel B Connectors 4 - Program Input 5 - Stage Announce Output 6 - Stage Announce Relay

PRGM IN

SA OUT

4-WIRE / ECLIPSE PORTS

SA RLY

Figure 4-1: FreeSpeak Basestation Back Panel

7 - 4-Wire Matrix Ports 8 - Base Loop Connector (not used) 9 - LAN Connector 10 - PC Connector 11 - Transceiver Connectors

BASE

LAN

LOOP

PC PROGRAM

TRANSCEIVER

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-1

IEC Power Connector

The 3-conductor AC power connector and universal power supply accepts voltages from 90 to 250 volts, at 50/60 Hz. Power consumption is 80 watts.

Party Line Channel A Connectors

The FreeSpeak basestation provides two pairs of party-line connectors, labeled “Channel A” and “Channel B.” Each pair of female and male 3-pin XLR connectors joins a channel of party-line intercom to the FreeSpeak, allowing communication between the wired party-line equipment and FreeSpeak wireless beltpacks. Input and Output level control is set via the front-panel display programming.

The second connector of each pair is a loop-through, so that the user can continue the connection to another FreeSpeak basestation or to another party-line beltpack or station. This connector auto-detects a connection with a powered party-line channel (30-VDC on Pin 2), and the basestation’s internal 200-ohm party-line termination and DC voltage to power PL beltpacks is not activated.

Alternatively, when a wired, unpowered party-line beltpack (up to four) is connected to PL CH-A with standard two-conductor shielded microphone cable, the basestation engages the 200-ohm termination and supplies 24-VDC to the beltpack(s) – allowing them to operate and communicate with the wireless beltpacks in the system.

Party Line Channel B Connectors

These connectors are the same as those for PL CH-A.

Program Input Connector

This female 3-pin XLR connector accepts a line-level audio signal from an outside source such as a mixing console or audio player. It is transformer-isolated. Level adjustment is done via the front-panel display programming. The program input can be assigned as an IFB source from the front panel.

Stage Announce Output Connector

This male 3-pin XLR connector allows a line-level audio signal, typically from wireless beltpacks or 4-Wire sources, to be sent to a paging system or other audio system. It is transformer-isolated. Level adjustment is done via the front-panel display programming. More than one audio source at a time can be routed to the S t age Announce, with the audio being combined to give a single audio output.

4-2

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Stage Announce Relay

This DB-9 male connector provides a relay closure that is triggered simultaneously with the SA Output. The relay may be used to open an audio pathway for the signal from the SA Output, or could also be used to activate a light or lock or some other device. The relay may be wired for normally closed or normally open operation, and the signal appears on pins 1 & 6 or 2 & 6. It is rated to a maximum of 30-VDC at 1 amp.

4-Wire Matrix Ports

These four RJ-45 connectors can connect four full-duplex (input pair and output pair) audio connections from a 4-wire communications device, digital matrix intercom, or similar – making them available to the wireless beltpacks. Any of the 4-wire ports or the program input can be assigned as IFB sources from the front panel.

Each of these connectors has its own time slot, and can be addressed separately from a beltpack, or combined with other beltpacks and rear-panel connectors in a group. Level adjustment is done via the front-panel display programming.

Base Loop Connector (not used)

The connector has no function in Freespeak V2.0.

LAN Connector

This RJ-45 connector allows the basestation to be connected to a LAN for system software upgrades and configuration downloads from the Configuration Editor. It is a 10BaseT Ethernet port.

PC Connector

This female DB-9 connects to a PC computer for firmware updates and monitoring of the system configuration. It functions as a serial port.

Transceiver Connectors

These two RJ-45 connectors connect the basestation to two remote FS-TA transceiver/antennas or antenna splitters.

Each wired transceiver/antenna communicates with five wireless beltpacks. Each antenna splitter provides connection for five transceiver antennas. providing communication with up to a maximum of 10 beltpacks depending upon available bandwidth.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Note: To meet FCC emissions requirements a ferrite must be

fitted on any CAT-5 cable plugged into either of the two

4-3

ports labeled “tranceivers.” The ferrite should be fitted at the basestation end of the CAT-5 cable. Position the ferrite as close to the basestation as possible. A suitable ferrite is available from Wurth Elektronix. The part number is 742 711

32.

Note: It is recommended that shielded CAT-5 cable is used for

FreeSpeak systems.

CONNECTING TO PARTY-LINE INTERCOM SYSTEMS

Up to two channels of party-line intercom can be connected to the FreeSpeak basestation. The descriptions below will discuss connections with Clear-Com and compatible party-line, RTS party-line, the ability of FreeSpeak to power up to four Clear-Com beltpacks by itself, and the front-panel settings associated with these party-line connections.

Using the front-panel display and rotary encoder, the user may go into the PORTS menu, select the desired party-line channel, and create a five-character alphanumeric label for it. This is the label that would then appear on any FreeSpeak wireless beltpacks to which that party-line connection was assigned for communications. In the GROUPS menu, the party-line connection can be assigned as a member of any of the groups, as desired.

CLEAR-COM AND COMPATIBLE PARTY-LINE

Clear-Com and Clear-Com-compatible wired party-line intercoms connect to the PL CH-A and PL CH-B connectors in a similar manner to connecting beltpacks or remote stations to the intercom line. Typically that wired intercom connection would have a 30-VDC current on Pin 2, coming from a main station or an intercom power supply. The second connector in the pair may be used as a loop-through to go to other wired party-line stations or beltpacks, or to a second FreeSpeak basestation. The pinout for party line connector is shown in table Table 4-1.

PIN DESCRIPTION

1 Ground (shield) 2 Power 3Audio

Table 4-1: Party Line Pinout

To connect party-line equipment to the basestation

4-4

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

1. Check that the party-line LED on the front-panel is out, which indicates that the party-line connection is disabled from the basestation.

2. Connect, and if appropriate, power up, the external party-line equipment.

3. Enable the party line by pressing the “enable” button on the basestation’s front panel.

The basestation detects power and termination settings when the party line is enabled by pressing the “enable” button on the basestation’s front panel, or when the basestation is powered up after having enabled the party line. The basestation remembers that the party line is enabled when it powers up.

When the FreeSpeak basestation detects a wired party line being connected with 30 VDC on Pin 2, it does not enable the 24-VDC power supply that the FreeSpeak basestation supplies to the connector to support a handful of locally connected wired party-line beltpacks. The basestation then appears to the wired party-line system as a remote station.

The first call to a Party Line channel A or B results in the call alert and subsequent ones do not give any further alerting unless the Party Line channel buttons on the basestation are toggled. This prevents all calls giving alerts when this is not necessary.

CONNECTING DIRECTLY TO CLEAR-COM PARTY-LINE BELTPACKS

PL CH-A and PL CH-B have the ability to directly support up to four Clear-Com RS-501 or RS-601 party-line beltpacks each, without any other connection to a wired party-line system. This feature gives the convenience of being able to add a few wired beltpacks when needed to a FreeSpeak installation.

Connect a standard two-conductor shielded microphone cable to the PL CH-A connector, and then connect it to a Clear-Com single-channel party-line beltpack. The basestation will detect that the beltpack has been connected, and will enable the required 200-ohm termination, and will supply 24-VDC to Pin 2 to power the beltpack(s).

It is possible to daisy-chain up to four beltpacks, or use an intercom XLR splitter at the basestation to feed mic cables connected to the individual beltpacks. Because it is a 24-volt rather than a 30-volt current, the maximum length of cable that can be connected (the sum of all of the runs) will be shorter than what is expected with the standard party-line voltage. Do the same with PL CH-B to support an additional four beltpacks.

To connect to the party line

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

1. From the main menu, scroll to PORTS and select by pressing the setup/enter knob in.

2. Scroll to PLCHA or PLCHB and press to select.

4-5

The SELECTED PORT screen appears.

3. Scroll to and select CALLS. The CALL DESTINATION screen appears.

4. Select the port or group to be connected to the party line by scrolling to it and pressing the rotary encoder . Doing so creates a route to the selected destination—this port or group can now hear the activity on the party line. (Note: this option can also be set to NONE.)

5. Select TYPE from the menu.

6. Select either Clear-Com, Drake, or RTS. The basestation automatically sets the termination, audio levels,

and call signaling options for the selected party-line system. Note that the Basestation does not detect the RTS call signal.

7. If the changes are saved the route will be reinstated on power up.

Note: Suggested settings for a party line connection are that the

VOX should be set to -26dB, the gain output to -6dB and the input to 0dB.

CONNECTING TO AN RTS™ WIRED BELTPACK

FreeSpeak can only transmit and receive audio from channel 2 of an RTS wired beltpack. Connect using a standard XLR cable. Ensure that the party-line type is set to “RTS” using the menu on the basestation before enabling the party line. See the chapter “Programming a System from the Basestation” for more information.

Warning:Previous versions of this manual described a cable

which would allow access to channel 1 of a dual channel RTS beltpack. DO NOT attempt to use a cable like th is as it could result in damage to the FreeSpeak basestation.

FRONT-PANEL ADJUSTMENTS FOR PARTY-LINE CONNECTIONS

To connect the party-line channels to FreeSpeak and make the communication available to the rest of the system, press the CH-A and/or CH-B enable switches. The LED will light, and the connection is made. To disconnect the party-line connections, press these switches again. The switch may be “locked” in the SYSTEM menu so that the party lines may not be disconnected.

Because party-line intercom does not have global level control on a channel, input and output level controls are provided via the front panel programming. Scroll to PORTS on the main display screen and press the rotary encoder to select. Scroll to PLCHA or PLCHB and press to select. Select LEVELS, then select the input or output level. This notation is relative to the basestation–input level refers to the level at which everyone else hears the party line, and output level refers to the level at which the users on the party line channel hear everyone else.

4-6

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Use the rotary encoder to adjust the numerical level—clockwise to increase the level and counter-clockwise to decrease the level.

Make the estimated changes in level and press the rotary encoder to save the changes. Test the levels between the party line and FreeSpeak beltpack, and make additional changes as needed. When the levels are set as desired, press to select and the display will go to the previous INPUT/OUTPUT screen. When both are adjusted, select BACK on each screen until the main screen is displayed.

Users connected to the basestation can be forced to listen to the activity on the party line by initiating a “call”.

For more information on programming the basestation, see the chapter “Programming a System from the Basestation”.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-7

TROUBLESHOOTING PARTY-LINE CONNECTIONS

Reducing FreeSpeak Beltpack echo when talking to a analogue party-line

If the basestation and beltpack are not set up correctly the FreeSpeak user will experience an echo when talking to a party-line (either directly or via a group or a wireless party-line). The echo is caused by either local audio coupling in the headset due to the microphone gain being set too high or audio reflections from the party-line that can minimized by setting a VOX gate on the party-line and the party-line being auto nulled.

How to set the microphone gain in the beltpack

When using a CC-260 or CC-95 the microphone gain should be set at 55dB (55dB is the default setting).

Note: If the microphone gain is set higher than 55dB this can

introduce audio coupling between the ear phone and the microphone.

Include the Party-Line channel inside a Wireless Party-Line group

It is recommended that when connecting to an analogue party-line system that the user includes the wireless party-lines (WPL). The WPLs reduce the variation in audio levels heard when talking to analogue party-lines. The WPLs are created in the configura tion editor in a similar way to a user creating a group.

How to set the VOX gating level on the Party-Line connected to the Basestation

4-8

Figure 4-2: VOX Gating Level on Party Line Connection

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

The VOX gate allows the user to set limits to the audio that will be passed from the party-line to the basestation mixer; by setting the VOX level at the correct level the user can cut the audio reflections (which cause the echo) from the party-line when a wireless beltpack user speaks. This is achieved when the VOX level is set above the audio level of the reflections, thus allowing a party-line user’s voice to pass through the VOX gate in the basestation mixer but the VOX gate will reject the audio reflections.

Note: If both the party-line user and the FreeSpeak user speak at

the same time, the FreeSpeak user may hear the echo as the audio reflections piggy back the party-line audio.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 4-3: VOX Gate Setting Examples

Note: If the FreeSpeak beltpack users shouts or increases the

microphone gain into the beltpack the echo might return if the audio reflects are above the VOX gate level.

Auto null the Party-Line channel at the Basestation

Party-lines connected to the base station can be auto nulled by first enabling party-line channel by pressing the party-line button on the front of the basestation.

The auto nulling is then activated by pressing and holding the enable party-line button; the base station will go then into a auto null routine.

4-9

WIRELESS PARTY LINE

The FreeSpeak basestation provides five wireless party line groups which allow up to twenty eight members to be connected together in a conference call. The beltpack keys assigned to the wireless party line group are assigned as dual talk and listen and p arty lines connected to the group are assigned as talk and listen.

When a beltpack or party line talks to a wireless party line group the talk signal from the beltpack or party line is subtracted from the listen signal to remove the sidetone resulting from the users voice being looped back in the conference audio, leaving only the audio from othe r members.

Figure 4-4: Wireless Party Line Audio Flow

This facility allows conferencing over a large area between a mix of beltpacks, party line stations and Eclipse system panels through a FreeSpeak basestation.

CONNECTING TO 4-WIRE AND DIGITAL MATRIX INTERCOM

Up to four channels of 4-wire/digital matrix intercom can be connected to the FreeSpeak basestation. The descriptions below will discuss connections with Clear-Com Matrix Plus digital matrix, Clear-Com Eclipse digital matrix, other brands of digital matrix intercoms, other 4-wire audio devices, and the front-panel settings associated with these 4-wire connections.

To connect the basestation to a matrix port:

1. Scroll to PORTS on the main display screen and press the rotary encoder to select.

2. Scroll to 4-WIRE and press to select.

4-10

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

3. Scroll to CALLS and press to select.

4. Select the port or group to create an audio path to and press to select. Doing so creates a route to the selected destination—this port or group can now hear the activity on the party line. (Note: this option can also be set to NONE.)

5. Once the changes have been saved, the route will be reinstated on power up.

Note: Call signalling is not currently supported on 4-wire

connections.

In the GROUPS menu, the 4-wire port can be assigned as a member of any of the groups, as desired.

4-Wire Pinout

The pinout for the RJ-45 4-wire port is shown in Table 4-2.

RJ-45 CONNECTOR

AT BASE STATION PORT

8765

Figure 4-5: Front View of RJ-45 Connector

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-11

Pin Description

1 Not used 2 Not used 3 Audio Output + 4 Audio Input + 5 Audio Input 6 Audio Output 7 Not used 8 Not used

Table 4-2: FreeSpeak Basestation 4-Wire Pinout

CONNECTING WITH CLEAR-COM MATRIX PLUS

The connection between a Matrix Plus digital intercom port and a FreeSpeak 4-wire port is accomplished with a standard 4-pair straight-through CAT-5 data cable with RJ-45 connectors on both ends. In the current generation of FreeSpeak, the audio input and audio output pairs are all that will be used.

In the Matrix Plus PGM-WIN configuration software, set the matrix port that is connected to the FS-BASE basestation 4-wire port to “4-Wire”. If the label of this FreeSpeak 4-wire port is to be put onto more than one intercom panel within the matrix system, and any and all people who have activated a talk/listen to that port to be able to hear each other, as well as hearing the person talking to them from the FreeSpeak wireless beltpack, also check “Party-Line Enable” for that 4-Wire connection in the configuration software.

4-12

Within the FreeSpeak Basestation configuration software, the user can adjust the input and output level for that port. Alternately, the input and output levels can be adjusted on the FreeSpeak basestation for the particular 4-wire port, using the front-panel display. Repeat the procedure for each FreeSpeak 4-wire port that is connected with the Matrix Plus system. Note that FreeSpeak does not currently generate a call signal to the Matrix port.

CONNECTING WITH CLEAR-COM ECLIPSE DIGITAL MATRIX

The procedure to connect between a FreeSpeak 4-wire port and the Eclipse digital matrix is similar to that of Matrix Plus 3. An identical connection is made with 4-pair straight-through CAT-5 cable between an Eclipse port and the FreeSpeak port.

Within the Eclipse Configuration System software (ECS), set the port to “Direct.” This will allow intercom stations in the Eclipse system to converse with the FreeSpeak basestation and beltpacks. Because

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

there is not a “Party-Line Enable” within Eclipse, if several users of intercom stations connected with Eclipse need to hear each other as well as the wireless FreeSpeak beltpack, another procedure will need to be added. Within the configuration software, the user would create a new party-line label, with members including the desired intercom stations and the particular FreeSpeak 4-wire port. That label would then be assigned to a key on each of the intercom stations, allowing connection with the FreeSpeak 4-wire port and the other members of the new party-line.

CONNECTING WITH OTHER DIGITAL MATRIX INTERCOM SYSTEMS

Because FreeSpeak features standard 4-wire ports, with an input pair and an output pair, virtually any 4-wire signal can be connected with it. Make sure to properly match the input and output pairs between the digital matrix port and the FreeSpeak 4-wire port (see diagram below).

The pinouts for the first two 4-wire ports contain both audio and data connections, though the data connections are not currently used. Those pinouts are shown in the following table.

PIN FUNCTION

1 Data Tx+ 2 Data Tx– 3 Audio Out+ 4 Audio In+ 5 Audio In– 6 Audio Out– 7 Data Rx+ 8 Data Rx–

Table 4-3: Pinouts for Connecting to Other Digital Matrix Intercom Systems

The remaining two 4-wire connections are audio only, and the data connections are unterminated (see Table 4-2).

Within the configuration software of the other digital intercom system, configure its connected port to 4-wire or similar. Adjust the input and output levels either at matrix side or within the FreeSpeak front-panel display for the particular FreeSpeak 4-wire port.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-13

CONNECTING WITH OTHER 4-WIRE DEVICES

Various other 4-wire audio devices can be connected with FreeSpeak. The Clear-Com EF-701M 4-wire interface can be used to attach additional party-line channels to FreeSpeak, converting them from party-line on the wired side to 4-wire on the FreeSpeak side.

The Clear-Com IF4W4 interface can be used similarly. The audio input side of the FreeSpeak 4-wire connectors could be used for additional program or other audio inputs that could then be accessed by FreeSpeak beltpacks. The audio output side of the FreeSpeak 4-wire connectors could be used to route a FreeSpeak wireless beltpack user’s voice out of the system for paging or other reasons, similar to the SA OUT connector.

When using the FreeSpeak 4-wire ports in this way, make sure that proper connections are made between FreeSpeak and the other device. Adjust the input and/or output levels either at the 4-wire device or within the FreeSpeak front-panel display for that particular 4-wire port.

CONNECTING TO A PROGRAM AUDIO SOURCE

FreeSpeak can connect with a program audio source, making it accessible to be assigned by itself to a communication path to one or more FS-BP wireless beltpacks, or to be added to a group with other communications and assigned to beltpacks. Using the two separate rotary encoder volume controls on the beltpack, the user can monitor the program on one control while talking and listening on an intercom channel with the other.

The balanced female 3-pin XLR connector accepts a standard audio signal from a mixing console or similar, with Pin 1 ground, Pin 2 audio hot (+), and Pin 3 audio cold (-).This connector is transformer-isolated.

To make the program input signal available to the system, the front-panel PRGM enable button must be activated/on. The red LED above it will light, indicating that it is now available. This front-panel switch may be “locked” to prevent accidental disengagement, using the front panel display.

Using the front-panel display and rotary encoder, the user may select PORTS and give the connector a five-character alphanumeric label. The user may assign that program input by itself to a beltpack using the BELTPACKS menu, or use the GROUPS menu to assign the program input to any group or wireless party line. Program input can be assigned to multiple groups or wireless party lines using the GROUPS menu.

4-14

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

IFB CONFIGURATION

One of five FreeSpeak basestation inputs can be defined as a source for an IFB. These inputs are the Program Input and the four 4-Wire ports. All the 4-Wire ports, party line channels, beltpacks, wireless party lines and stage output can be defined as IFB destinations.

Up to ten IFB key configurations can be set up that group together an IFB source and a number of IFB destinations and set the dimming level for that IFB key configuration.

IFB Source IFB Destination IFB Talks

Program Audio Four-wire 3

All beltpacks Four-wire 4 All beltpacks

Four-wire 3 Four-wire 4

All beltpacks All beltpacks

Four-wire 4 Four-wire 3

All beltpacks All Beltpacks

Table 4-4: IFB Key Configurations

An IFB talk is a panel or beltpack with a key set up to talk to the IFB key configuration. Whenever an IFB talk key is pressed the audio from the IFB source to the IFB destinations configured in the IFB key configuration is dimmed by the set amount and the audio from the IFB talk is heard by all the IFB destinations set up in that IFB key configuration.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Figure 4-6: IFB Audio Path

4-15

The IFB source audio will be dimmed on the IFB destinations for as long as the IFB talk key is active. When the IFB talk key is released the IFB source audio to the destinations will return to normal level.

CONNECTING TO THE STAGE ANNOUNCE OUTPUT

The stage announce feature allows a talker to route their voice to an external paging system or other audio destination by pressing one of the rotary encoders to which the SA OUT connector is assigned. The adjacent SA RELAY is simultaneously triggered. One beltpack user at a time may use this feature, though the capability may be assigned to any or all of the wireless beltpacks, as desired.

Connect a microphone cable to the male 3-pin XLR connector on the rear of the FreeSpeak basestation, and connect the other end to the external audio system. When the output is activated, the beltpack user’s voice will be sent at line level to the audio system. The audio output ceases when the beltpack user stops pressing the rotary encoder; it is good practice to make sure that any rotary encoder to which the SA OUT is assigned is set to momentary/non-latching mode.

PIN FUNCTION

1 Normally Closed 2 Normally Open 3 N/C (no

connection) 4N/C 5N/C 6Pole 7N/C 8N/C 9N/C

Table 4-5: Pin Assignments for Stage Announce Connector

The associated SA RELAY can be assigned to open an audio route for the paging or announcement, or can be assigned to initiate any other event such as turning on a light or activating a lock. It is rated at a maximum of 30 VDC at 1 ampere. The relay can be wired to be either normally open or normally closed, using the pinout information in Table 4-5.

4-16

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

CONNECTING TO A PC

CONNECTING VIA THE SERIAL PORT

The PC serial port on the rear of the FreeSpeak basestation is mainly used for firmware version upgrades of the system.

A specially wired cable is required for these updates, co nsisting of two 9-pin D-type connectors for the PC and the FreeSpeak ends. On the FreeSpeak end, a male 9-pin D connector is used, and is wired as follows in relation to the D connector pins on the PC end. Pin 2 goes to pin 3, pin 3 goes to pin 2, and pin 5 goes to pin 5; in other words, the data Tx and Rx lines on pins 2 and 3 are reversed. Those are the only wiring connections on the FreeSpeak end of the cable.

PC CONNECTION (9-PIN F) BASESTATION (9-PIN M)

1N/C 23 32 4N/C 55 6N/C 7N/C 8N/C 9N/C

Table 4-6: Pinout for Cable to Upgrade Basestation Firmware

On the PC end, a female 9-pin D connector is used. Make sure that the data connections of pin 2 to pin 3 and pin 3 to pin 2 are followed, and that pin 5 goes through to pin 5. Then short pins 1, 4, 6, and 8 together on the PC end of the cable. The cable will now be ready to use with the any upgrade files from the factory. Table 4-6 gives the pin configuration for this cable. Table 4-7 shows the pin configuration for the cable used to upgrade beltpack firmware.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-17

PC CONNECTION (9-PIN F)

1N/C 2tip 3ring 4N/C 5 screen 6N/C 7N/C 8N/C 9N/C

Table 4-7: Pinout for Cable to Upgrade Beltpack Firmware

BELTPACK (3.5 mm jack)

CONNECTING VIA THE LAN PORT

This connection is used for rapid firmware updates, as well as in the future for system configuration and intelligent connection with the Eclipse digital matrix. It is wired as a standard Ethernet connection.

The basestation has a fixed IP address. This can be found by selecting SYSTEM and then INFO from the front-panel display menu. Refer to the chapter “FreeSpeak Toolkit” for more information on using the LAN port to upgrade firmware.

CONNECTING TO TRANSCEIVER/ANTENNAS (FS-TA)

CONNECTING ONE TRANSCEIVER/ANTENNA (FS-TA) DIRECTLY TO A TRANSCEIVER PORT

A FS-TA transceiver/antenna connects to the transceiver port on the FreeSpeak basestation using a standard 4-pair CAT-5 data cable with RJ-45 connectors. It may be located up to 1,000 meters from the basestation if 24AWG cable is used for 500 meters if 26AWG cable is used creating a coverage area for five FS-BP wireless beltpacks in that location. The port is able to provide the required power to the transceiver/antenna at a distance of up to 300 meters (approximately 900 feet); beyond that distance, the FS-TA transceiver/antenna must be locally powered via its in-line external universal power supply.

Note: It is recommended that shielded CAT-5 cable is used.

To know that a FS-TA transceiver/antenna is active, observe the green power LED and the yellow signal LED on the face of the unit where the RJ-45 connector is connected. Both must be lit. Also, wireless beltpacks in the vicinity of the active transceiver/antenna will be

4-18

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

connected to the system and their displays will show labels and other information.

Using both transceiver ports, a basestation may be connected with up to two transceiver/antennas via a direct connection with the basestation. For the best, most reliable coverage, it is advisable to use a minimum of two transceiver/antennas in any installation, positioned in different locations in the coverage area. When more FS-TA’s are required to support a larger coverage area or more wireless beltpacks, an antenna splitter will need to be introduced between the basestation and the transceiver/antennas.

Note: In some situations, particularly in outdoor venues,

interference from non-DECT sources can severely reduce the range of the system. In these cases we recommend a site survey as described in Chapter 8, “Installing a System”.

CONNECTING TRANSCEIVER/ANTENNAS WITH A SPLITTER (PD2203)

A splitter (PD2203) will connect up to five transceiver/antennas to one of the transceiver ports on the FreeSpeak basestation, creating up to five coverage zones that can be overlapped to make large areas where FS-BP wireless beltpacks can have continuous coverage. The use of the splitter also extends the distance that the FS-TA transceiver antennas can be located from the basestation to 2,000 metres (6,400 feet) if 24AWG cable is used or 1.000 metres (3,200 feet) if 26AWG cable is used (assuming the same type of cable to used to connect the antenna to the splitter and the splitter to the basestation).

Note: It is recommended that shielded CAT-5 cable is used.

For example, a splitter can be used to connect to a FreeSpeak basestation that is located in a production truck outside an arena or stadium, with a single CAT-5 cable going to the splitter which is then located just inside the stadium. From that splitter, up to five FS-TA transceiver/antennas are distributed throughout the stadium to create wide coverage – each with a run of CAT-5 cable back to the splitter. A similar arrangement may be used in a large theatre or performing arts facility.

The connection between a transceiver port on the FreeSpeak basestation and a PD2203 splitter is accomplished with standard 4-pair CAT-5 data cable with RJ-45 connectors. It is connected to the port labeled MATRIX on the splitter. This cable can be as long as 1,000 metres (3,200 feet) if 24AWG cable is used or 500 metres (1,600 feet) if 26AWG cable is used. The splitter must be locally powered via its DC IN connector, using the in-line external universal power supply. The RJ-45 ports on the splitter labeled “1” through “5” are the connections to the FS-TA transceiver/antennas. Transceiver/antennas connected to the splitter can be powered at a distance of up to 300

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-19

metres (900 feet); beyond that distance they will need to be locally powered.

Note: To use the system with cable lengths over 200m the

software update in release 1.5.6 or better must be installed on the basestations.

POWERING AN ANTENNA OR ANTENNA SPLITTER

Provision of 24 VDC power to a FreeSpeak antenna is done in one of three ways:

• Connect the antenna to a 150/UNI-DIN power supply unit through the 4-pin DIN connector at the antenna.

• Connect the antenna to an antenna splitter which is powered by a power-supply unit.

• Connect the antenna to a FreeSpeak basestation’s “transceiver” RJ-45 connector.

The preferred method is to connect the antenna to a powered antenna splitter, as illustrated in Figure 4-7. An antenna splitter distributes power to all antennas connected to it. A single power-supply unit can power the maximum 10 antennas. However, cable lengths will be reduced.

4-20

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

FreeSpeak Base Station

Antenna Splitter

100 m

100 m 100 m 100 m 100 m 100 m

FreeSpeak Base Station

PSU AT THE SPLITTER AND ACTIVE ANTENNA

FreeSpeak Base Station

Figure 4-7: Powering an Antenna Splitter

PSU AT THE ANTENNA SPLITTER ONLY

Antenna Splitter

500 m

PSU

Antenna Splitter

500 m

PSU

300 m 300 m 300 m

300 m 300 m

800 m -- 1000 m

PSU

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4-21

4-22

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

PROGRAMMING A

A system is programmed using the menus displayed on the basestation’s front panel.

Scroll to an item by turning the setup/enter knob. Select an item by pressing the knob in, as if it were a pushbutton.

SYSTEM FROM THE BASESTATION

A FreeSpeak system is programmed using the menus displayed on the basestation’s front panel. Programming the system requires four basic steps:

1. Create individual names (“labels”) for the wireless beltpacks

and for the wired devices connected to the basestation. Use individual labels for building “point-to-point” communication paths.

Labels are composed of five alphanumeric characters. Labels can be created for users’ names (“John” or “Susan”), roles (“AUDIO” or “DIR”), or for connections (“PL_A” or “PL_B”). Alternatively a device’s generic name can be used, which never changes. An example of a generic name is “BPK01” for Beltpack 1. Generic names are always displayed on the programming menus.

2. Create names (“labels”) for groups. A g roup label is used when a

FreeSpeak beltpack needs to communicate with all members of a group simultaneously, as in a party line. Up to ten groups can be created, with five groups being standard groups and five groups being wireless party line groups. Up to fifteen members can be assigned to a standard group and up to twenty eight members can be assigned to a wireless party line group.

A label can be customized to reflect the group’s function, such as “STG-A” for communicating with the production staff on Stage A. Alternatively the generic names assigned for the ten possible groups can be used. For example, “GP#01” is the generic name for Group 1.

3. Assign members to the groups created. Group members are

drawn from the wireless beltpacks and from the wired devices connected to the basestation. A group created from these devices functions as a party line, in which all members of the group can communicate simultaneously with all other members of the group.

4. Assign individual and grouped devices to each FreeSpeak

beltpack by using the programming screens on the basestation’s front panel. Each assignment creates a

communication route from the FreeSpeak beltpack to the selected device or group. Up to six communication routes can be assigned to a beltpack.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

These steps are discussed in more detail in the following sections.

5-1

“Source” refers to a device—beltpack, intercom station, or a variety of other devices—from which audio is received.

A NOTE ABOUT TERMINOLOGY

In this manual, the term “source” refers to a device—beltpack, intercom station, or a variety of other devices—that sends audio to a beltpack. It represents a “listen” path to a station. The term “destination” refers to a device to which audio is sent. It represents a “talk” path from a beltpack.

“Destination” refers to a device to which audio is sent.

There are two ways to save changes.

The names of these sources and destinations appear in the display of a beltpack and are called “labels”. A label is a 5-character alphanumeric name that identifies a source, destination, or control function accessed by a beltpack. These “labels” are programmed from the FreeSpeak basestation.

USING THE BASESTATION’S PROGRAMMING MENUS

A FreeSpeak system is programmed using the programming menus that appear on the basestation’s front-panel display screen. The user navigates through the menus to select programming options for the system.

Rotating the setup/enter knob allows the user to scroll through the selections on the screen. As the user scrolls through the menu items are highlighted on the screen. To select an item as a new programming option, press the setup/enter knob in, as if it were a pushbutton, when the desired item is highlighted on the screen.

SAVING CHANGES

5-2

The changes are saved and applied automatically when changes are made to the unit’s programming. Five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was turned or pressed, the front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

BASESTATION PASSWORD

With the FreeSpeak V2.0 release the basest ation requ ires a password to be input before it will operate once the firmware is upgraded. The password requires the basestation system ID which is found in the system information screen (see “System INFO (“INFO”)” on page 5-27.

The basestation password will normally be supplied with the V2.0 CD but if it is not available the user should contact Clear-Com for a password.

After the basestation is upgraded it will display the following message when the first map is downloaded.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

INVALID PASSWORD - SYSTEM DISABLED - ENTER SYSTEM -> PASSWORD

Figure 5-1: Initial Password Request Display

To enter the password press the Setup/Enter knob to display the main menu and select ‘SYSTEM’. Scroll through the system menus until the ‘PASSWORD’ menu is displayed.

SYSTEM MENU

INFO

INVALID PASSWORD - SYSTEM DISABLED - ENTER SYSTEM -> PASSWORD

Figure 5-2: System Password Menu

PASSWORD

BACK

Scroll to the ‘PASSWORD’ entry and select it. The password entry screen will be displayed.

Enter SYSTEM ENABLE password. . .

A D 4 E A J 0

Figure 5-3: System Password Entry

The first character is a string of eight characters will be highlighted ready for the system password to be entered.

1. Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A

box appears around the character.

2. Rotate the setup/enter knob. As the knob is rotated the entire range

of available characters appears, starting with upper-case characters, proceeding to lower-case characters, then to digits, and finally to punctuation characters.

3. When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter

knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to enter all the characters in the system

password.

5. When editing the label has been completed press the Setup/Enter

knob. The system should display the message “PASSWORD ACCEPTED - MATRIX RESETTING”.

6. The matrix will reset and begin normal operation. I f the p assword is

incorrectly entered the system will reject it.

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Once the system password has been entered the ‘PASSWORD’ entry will no longer be displayed on the system menu.

5-3

Use individual labels for point-to-point communication routes.

CHANGING BELTPACK LABELS

The first step in creating a FreeSpeak system is to create individual names (“labels”) for the wireless beltpacks and for the wired devices connected to the basestation. Use individual labels for building “point-to-point” communication routes.

To change a beltpack label

1. From the MAIN menu on the basestation’s front panel display, scroll

to and select BELTPACKS, as shown in Figure 5-4.

MAIN MENU

BELTPACKS

Figure 5-4: From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS

PORTS

GROUPS SYSTEM

The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS menu appears, as shown in Figure 5-5. The first page shows the first five beltpack labels.

AVAILABLE BELTPACKS

BPK01 BPK01

BPK02 BPK02

BPK03 BPK03

BPK04 BPK04

BPK05 BPK05

BACK

Figure 5-5: Available Beltpacks Menu

• The beltpacks’ generic labels BPK01 through BPK05 appear on the upper row, while the labels given to the beltpacks appear just under the generic labels. At first both upper and lower labels will have the same generic designations.

• To get to the second, third and fourth pages, scroll all the way to the right of the screen, and then continue to scroll. The second, third and fourth pages will be displayed showing beltpacks 6 - 10, 11 - 15 and 16 - 20 (BPK06 - BPK10, BPK11 - BPK15, BPK16 BPK20).

2. Scroll to and select the desired beltpack label. The next menu that appears gives the options for programming the

selected beltpack, as shown in Figure 5-6.

SELECTED BPK01 - BPK01

KEYS

Figure 5-6: First Beltpack Programming Options Menu

LATCH

GROUPS

3. Scroll all the way to the right of the screen and continue to scroll. The second beltpack programming options menu will be displayed.

BACK

5-4

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

SELECTED BPK01 - BPK01

LABELS

Figure 5-7: Second Beltpack Programming Menu

4. Scroll to and select LABEL from the menu. A menu to edit the selected beltpack’s label appears, as shown in

Figure 5-8. The current 5-character label appears, just under its generic name.

LEVELS

BACK

Enter name for - BPKO1

A U D I

Figure 5-8: Editing a Beltpack’s Label

5. Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character.

6. Rotate the setup/enter knob. As the knob is rotated the entire range of available characters appears, starting with upper-case characters, proceeding to lower-case characters, then to digits, and finally to punctuation characters.

7. When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

8. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all the characters in the label that are to be changed.

9. When editing the label has been completed, select and then de-select the fifth character to return to the PROGRAMMING OPTIONS menu.

Note: The user must select the fifth character, even if it is blank,

as in a label with less than five characters.

10. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

11. The beltpack that has had a new label assigned to it should be power cycled to ensure it is updated with the new label.

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

To edit another beltpack label, scroll clockwise to the BACK command and select it. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen appears. Select a new beltpack label to edit, and repeat steps 2 through 9.

5-5

Port labels identify the devices wired to the basestation’s rear panel ports.

SETTING AND CHANGING PORT LABELS

Port labels are created to identify the audio devices wired to the basestation’s rear panel ports, such as party-line beltpacks, 4-wire devices, program sources, and stage-announce outputs and relays.

To create a port label

1. From the basestation’s MAIN menu, scroll to and select PORTS (see Figure 5-9).

MAIN MENU

BELTPACKS

PORTS

GROUPS

SYSTEM

Audio ports include headset, 4-wire, party line, stage announce, and program source labels.

Figure 5-9: Select “Ports” from the Main Menu

The first AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-10.

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

HDSTA HDSTA

The first page of the menu shows the first 5 ports, starting with HDSTA (front-panel headset A) and continuing through 4WIR3 (the third 4-wire connector on the rear panel), as shown in Figure 5-10. By scrolling all the way to the right, and then continuing to scroll, 4WIR4 through PRGRM (program) will be displayed (Figure 5-11).

HDSTB HDSTB

Figure 5-10: First Available Ports Menu

4WIR1 4WIR1

4WIR2 4WIR2

4WIR3 4WIR3

BACK

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

4WIR4 4WIR4

PLCHA PLCHA

Figure 5-11: Second Available Ports Menu

PLCHB PLCHB

STGAN STGAN

PRGRM PRGRM

BACK

The upper label retains the same generic label, while the lower label can be edited to the user requirements.

5-6

Note: The upper character of the pair is a generic label, while the

lower character is editable.

2. Select an audio port from the menu. A screen appears that gives the options for programming the selected port, as shown in Figure 5-12.

SELECTED HDSTA - HDSTA

KEY

GROUPS

Figure 5-12: Port Programming Options Menu

LEVELS

LABEL

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

BACK

3. Select LABEL from the menu. A menu to edit that port’s label appears as shown in Figure 5-13.

Enter name for - HDSTA

V I D E

Figure 5-13: Editing a Port’s Label

O BACK

4. Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character.

5. Rotate the setup/enter knob. As the knob is rotated the entire range of available characters appears, starting with upper-case characters, proceeding to lower-case characters, then to digits, and finally to punctuation characters.

6. When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all the characters in the label that are to be changed.

8. Select ‘BACK’ to save the label. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

In order to edit another port label, scroll clockwise to the BACK command and select it. The AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS menu appears. Select a new audio port to edit, and repeat st eps 2 through 9.

First create a group label, and then add members to the group.

SETTING AND CHANGING GROUP LABELS

A group label is used when a FreeSpeak beltpack needs to communicate with all members of a group simultaneously, as in a party line. The user can create up to ten groups. Five of these can be standard groups with up to fifteen members per group and five can be wireless party line groups with up to twenty eight members per group.

Group members can be individual beltpacks or wired devices connected to the basestation. To form a group, the user must first create a name or “label” for the group, and then assign members to the group.

To create a group label

1. From the main menu, select GROUPS. The first page of the AVAILABLE GROUPS menu appears, as shown in Figure 5-14.

The 5 standard group labels appear on the first page of the menu. The generic labels GP#01 through GP#05 appear on the top row, and their editable versions appear on the lower row. The default values are GRP01 through GRP05.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-7

AVAILABLE GROUPS

GP#01 GRP02

By scrolling all the way to the right, and then continuing to scroll, the wireless party line groups appear on the second page of the menu.

GP#02 GRP01

Figure 5-14: Standard Group Labels

GP#03 GRP02

GP#04 GRP03

GP#05 GRP04

BACK

AVAILABLE GROUPS

WP#01 WPL01

The generic wireless party line group labels WP#01 through WP#05 appear on the top row, and their editable versions appear on the lower row. The default values are WPL01 through WPL05.

2. From the A VAILABLE GROUPS menu, select a group label. A menu appears that gives the options for programming the selected group, as in Figure 5-16.

WP#02 WPL02

Figure 5-15: Wireless Party Line Group Labels

WP#03 WPL03

WP#04 WPL04

WP#05 WPL05

BACK

SELECTED GP#01 - GRP01

LABEL

Figure 5-16: Select Label from the Menu

3. Select LABEL from the menu. A menu to edit that group label appears, as shown in Figure 5-17.

MEMBERS

Enter name for - GP#01

S T G -

Figure 5-17: Group Name Edit Menu

4. Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character.

6. When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all the characters in the label that are to be changed.

A BACK

BACK

5-8

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

8. Select ‘BACK’ to save the label. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

In order to edit another group label scroll clockwise to the BACK command and select it. The AVAILABLE GROUPS menu appears. Select a new group label to edit, and repeat steps 2 through 9.

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-9

ADDING GROUP MEMBERS

When a group name or “label” has been chosen the user may then “populate” that group. Group members are drawn from the individual wireless beltpacks and individual wired devices connected to the FreeSpeak basestation. A group created from these devices functions as a party line, in which all members of the group can communicate simultaneously with all other members of the group. A standard party line group may contain up to fifteen members and a wireless p arty line group may contain up to twenty eight members.

To assign members to a group

1. From the MAIN menu, select GROUPS. The A VAILABLE GROUPS menu appears.

2. Select a group’s label to which members are to be added. The PROGRAMMING OPTIONS menu appears, as shown in Figure 5-18.

SELECTED GP#01 - STG-A

LABEL

MEMBERS

BACK

Each beltpack can accommodate six labels.

Each of the beltpack’s three pages shows two labels.

Figure 5-18: Group Programming Options Menu

3. Select MEMBERS from the menu. The MEMBERS menu appears, as shown in Figure 5-19. On this set

of pages, all of the base-station wired ports appear (HDSTA through PRGRM, “headset A” through “program”), followed by the labels for all twenty FreeSpeak beltpacks. The menu header displays the number of members currently in the group out of a possible maximum of twelve members e.g. 4/12 for four members.

EDITING MEMBERS OF GRP01 - AUDIO (4/12) HDSTA HDSTA

4. Scroll through the pages of this list to find the desired members for the group. When a desired member is highlighted, press the setup/enter knob to select that member. A box appears around it.

5. To de-select a member that has already been selected, highlight that member and press the setup/enter knob. Pressing the setup/enter knob effectively works as a toggle switch, first selecting the item by putting a box around it, and then de-selecting it and removing the box.

6. When all of the desired beltpack labels and base-station port labels have been selected, scroll clockwise to BACK and select it to exit

HDSTB HDSTB

Figure 5-19: Adding Members to a Group

4WIR1 4WIR1

4WIR2 4WIR2

4WIR3 4WIR3

BACK

5-10

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

the selection process. Continue selecting the BACK command until the desired screen is reached.

7. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

To edit a group that already has members, go through the procedure above to reach the member labels. Scroll through the list, using presses of the rotary encoder to select and de-select members. Exit as above, and save the changes in the system memory.

BELTPACKS

The following steps have been completed in setting up the system:

• Created names (“labels”) for the FreeSpeak beltpacks and for the

devices wired to the base-station’s rear panel

• Created names (“labels”) for communication groups and assigned

members to the each group.

The next step is to assign these communication routes to the individual FreeSpeak beltpacks.

For this example, communication routes are assigned to the beltpack in position one—BPK01. The procedure is identical for all remaining beltpacks.

1. Selecting the ‘BELTPACKS’ entry on the main menu displays the menus for configuring beltpacks on the basestation.

SELECTED BPK01 - BPK01

KEYS

2. Use the Setup/Enter knob to scroll to the second beltpack menu.

Figure 5-20: First Beltpack Menu

LATCH

GROUPS

BACK

SELECTED BPK01 - BPK01

LABELS

Figure 5-21: Second Beltpack Menu

LEVELS

BACK

ASSIGNING LABELS TO BELTPACKS KEYS

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

To assign talk and listen routes (“labels”) to a beltpack’s keys

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed.

5-11

2. Select the beltpack to which the labels are to be assigned. The BELTPACK menu is displayed.

3. Select KEYS. The KEY EDITING screen appears, as shown in Figure 5-22.

SELECT KEY TO BE EDITED ON BP#1 (BPK01)

Pg1-1 STG-A

Figure 5-22: Assign communication routes (“labels”) to a beltpack key

Up to six communications routes (“labels”) can be assigned to a FreeSpeak beltpack depending on the number of key pages available on the beltpack:

• Page 1 of the beltpack’s display screen shows the first assignments for the Talk A and Talk B knobs (2 assignments).

• Page two shows the next set of assignments for the Talk A and Talk B knobs (2 assignments).

• Page three shows the next set of assignments for the Talk A and Talk B knobs (2 assignments).

Figure 5-23 shows how the front-panel screen on a beltpack displays its six communications routes.

Pg1-2 SM1-A

Pg2-1 A1-A

Pg2-2 LTG1A

Pg3-1 SM2-A

Pg3-2 AUD-A

BACK

5-12

Figure 5-23: Beltpack Display

4. Select the beltpack key to assign a communication route to. For this example, it is the beltpack’s Talk A key, page 1.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

A screen appears with a list of available sources and destinations to assign to this key. The list starts with the base-station 4-wire and party line connections, followed by each of the individual beltpacks, and finally by the ten available groups (five standard group s and five wireless party line groups).

SELECT KEY 1 FOR STG-1 -- BPK01 HDSTA HDSTA

Figure 5-24: Select the source/destination to assign to that beltpack key

5. Scroll through the list and select the desired source or destination to assign to that beltpack key. A box appears around the selection and the next screen appears for assigning the key type.

6. Select either talk (TLK), listen (LIS), talk/listen (T+L), dual talk/listen (DTL), forced listen (FL) or talk/forced listen (TFL) for that key.

HDSTB HDSTB

4WIR1 4WIR1

4WIR2 4WIR2

4WIR3 4WIR3

BACK

SELECT TYPE OF KEY 2 FOR Bpk02 - BPK02

TLK

The display automatically returns to the screen for selecting the next key to program.

7. Select the next key and follow steps 4 through 6. Continue until sources and destinations have been assigned to all desired keys on that beltpack.

LIS

T+L

Figure 5-25: Key Type Menu

DTL

TFL

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

To assign keys for another beltpack continue selecting the BACK command on each successive screen until reaching the AVAILABLE BELTPACKS menu. Highligh t and select t he next beltpack, and repeat the above procedures.

5-13

SETTING THE BELTPACK AUDIO LEVEL

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (Figure 5-5).

2. Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed.

3. Select ‘LEVELS’. The beltpack levels editing menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-26.

Editing levels for BPK01- BPK01 (in dB)

INPUT 0

Figure 5-26: Beltpack Levels Menu

4. Use the Setup/Enter knob to select the input level to display the beltpack input level setup.

OUTPUT 0

Input level for BPK01- BPK01 (dB)

BACK

Figure 5-27: Beltpack Input Level Setup

5. Use the Setup/Enter knob to set the beltpack input level in the range

-20dB to +6dB by rotating it anticlockwise to reduce the level and clockwise to increase the level. Press the Setup/Enter knob to select the input level.

6. Use the Setup/Enter knob to select the output level to display the beltpack output level setup.

5-14

Output level for BPK01- BPK01 (dB)

Figure 5-28: Beltpack Output Level Setup

7. Use the Setup/Enter knob to set the beltpack output level in the range -20dB to +6dB by rotating it anticlockwise to reduce the level and clockwise to increase the level. Press the Setup/Enter knob to select the output level.

SETTING BELTPACK LATCHING

Beltpack latching determines whether the beltpack A an d B latch when pressed so that the user does not have to keep the button pressed to maintain an audio route, or are non-latching so the audio route is only open when the button is pressed.

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS.

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (see Figure 5-5).

2. Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed.

3. Select ‘LATCH’. The beltpack latching menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-29.

BPK01 Is Currently Latching

NON-LATCHING

Figure 5-29: Beltpack Latching Menu

4. Use the Setup/Enter knob to select ‘NON-LATCHING’ or ‘LA TCHING’ on the menu and press the Setup/Enter knob to set th e latching status.

LATCHING

BACK

SETTING BELTPACK GROUPS

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (see Figure 5-5).

2. Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed.

3. Select ‘GROUPS’. The beltpack group editing menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-29.

EDITING GROUPS FOR BPK01 - BPK01

GP#01 GRP01

GP#02 GRP01

Figure 5-30: Beltpack Group Editing Menu

GP#03 GRP02

GP#04 GRP03

GP#05 GRP04

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

4. Use the Setup/Enter knob to scroll through the list of available groups and press the Setup/Enter knob to select a group. More than one group can be selected and each group that is selected will be indicated by a border.

EDITING GROUPS FOR BPK01 - BPK01

GP#01 GRP01

5. When all the required groups have been selected scroll to the ‘BACK’ item and press the Setup/Enter knob to return to the beltpack menu.

GP#02 GRP01

Figure 5-31: Beltpack Groups Selected

GP#03 GRP02

GP#04 GRP03

GP#05 GRP04

BACK

5-15

SETTING BELTPACK LABELS

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (see Figure 5-5).

2. Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed. Scroll to the second beltpack menu using the Setup/Enter knob.

SELECTED BPK01 - BPK01

LABELS

Figure 5-32: Labels Selected on the Beltpack Menu

3. Select ‘LABELS’. The beltpack label editing menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-33.

LEVELS

BACK

Enter name for - BPK01

B P K 0

Figure 5-33: Beltpack Label Editing Menu

4. Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character.

6. When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all the characters in the label that are to be changed.

8. When editing the label is completed select ‘BACK’ to return to the previous menu.

9. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the Setup/Enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

1 BACK

5-16

REGISTERING A BELTPACK

Beltpacks can be registered directly with a basestation from the front panel as well as using the Configuration Editor by entering the beltpack serial number.

1. From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (see Figure 5-5).

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

2. Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed. Scroll to the second beltpack menu using the Setup/Enter knob.

3. Select ‘REGISTER’. The beltpack registration menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 5-34.

Enter beltpack S/N for BPK01 - BPK01

3 2 3

Figure 5-34: Beltpack Registration Menu

4. Scroll to and select the numeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character.

5. Rotate the setup/enter knob. As the knob is rotated the entire range digits 0 - 9 is displayed.

6. When the desired digit appears, press the setup/enter knob to select it. The box disappears, and is replaced by the solid highlight.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all the digits in the beltpack serial number.

8. When editing the label is completed select ‘BACK’ to return to the previous menu.

9. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

2 BACK

SETTING INPUT AND OUTPUT PORT LEVELS

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

The settings at the basestation determine the input and output audio levels of a device connected to a port. The user can adjust the levels from -20 to +6 dB.

• Setting the “input” level alters how loudly others will hear it.

• Setting the “output” level alters how loudly the user will hear other

audio sources.

To set the audio level for a port

1. From the MAIN menu, select PORTS. A menu of the available audio ports is displayed.

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

HDSTA HDSTA

HDSTB HDSTB

Figure 5-35: Available Audio Ports Menu

4WIR1 4WIR1

4WIR2 4WIR2

4WIR3 4WIR3

BACK

5-17

2. Select the port for which the audio levels are to be adjusted from the AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS menu. The SELECTED PORT menu will be displayed.

SELECTED HDSTA - HDSTA

KEY

3. Select LEVELS from the next menu. The EDITING LEVELS menu appears.

GROUPS

Figure 5-36: Selected Port Menu for Level Setting

LEVELS

LABEL

BACK

Editing levels for HDSTA - HDSTA (in dB)

INPUT 0

Figure 5-37: Port Levels Menu

4. Select either ‘INPUT’ to display the input level setup menu.

OUTPUT 0

Input level for HDSTA - HDSTA (dB)

BACK

Figure 5-38: Port Input Level Setup

5. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the input level in 1 dB increments.

6. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

8. Select either ‘OUTPUT’ to display the output level setup menu.

5-18

Output level for HDSTA - HDSTA (dB)

Figure 5-39: Port Output Level Setup

9. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the output level in 1 dB increments.

10. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

11. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

In some cases, the audio paths must be re-made before the changes will take effect.

SETTING PORT CALL DESTINATION

Party Line, 4-Wire, Stage Announce and Program ports can also have call destinations configured. In this case any audio on the port will immediately be routed to the specified destination which may be any of the other available ports. If the VOX trigger is set then audio on this port will be routed to the destination when the specified threshold is exceeded.

1. From the MAIN menu, select ‘PORTS’. A menu of the available audio ports is displayed.

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

4WIR4 4WIR4

PLCHA PLCHA

PLCHB PLCHB

STGAN STGAN

PRGRM PRGRM

BACK

Figure 5-40: Available Audio Ports Menu

2. Select the port for which the call destination is to be set (excludes headset ports). The menu for the selected port will be displayed.

SELECTED 4WIR4 - 4WIR4

CALLS

3. Select ‘CALLS’ from the menu. The call destination menu will be displayed.

GROUPS

Figure 5-41: Selected Port Menu for Calls

LEVELS

LABEL

BACK

CALL DESTINATION FOR 4WIR4 IS NONE

4. Use the Setup/Enter knob to scroll through the available ports and select the required destination port. It is possible to select the source port as the call destination to create an audio loopback system. This may be used for audio testing purposes.

NONE

Figure 5-42: Port Call Menu

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-19

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

4WIR4 4WIR4

5. The port destination can be cleared by repeating the process and selecting the ‘NONE’ entry.

If one of the headset ports (HDSTA, HDSTB) is selected the port menu is different in the ‘KEY’ is displayed rather than ‘CALL’. This indicates than in order to trigger an auto route from the headset to the chosen destination the key on the basestation from panel should be used.

1. From the MAIN menu, select ‘PORTS’. A menu of the available audio ports is displayed.

PLCHA PLCHA

Figure 5-43: Port Destination Select Menu

PLCHB PLCHB

STGAN STGAN

PRGRM PRGRM

BACK

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

HDSTA HDSTA

2. Select the port for which the call destination is to be set (excludes headset ports). The menu for the selected port will be displayed.

HDSTB HDSTB

Figure 5-44: Available Audio Ports Menu

4WIR1 4WIR1

4WIR2 4WIR2

4WIR3 4WIR3

BACK

SELECTED HDSTA - HDSTA

KEY

3. Select ‘KEY’ from the menu. The audio destination menu will be displayed.

GROUPS

Figure 5-45: Selected Port Menu for Calls

LEVELS

LABEL

BACK

CALL DESTINATION FOR HDSTA IS NONE

NONE NONE

Figure 5-46: Port Call Menu

BACK

5-20

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS

4WIR4 4WIR4

5. The port destination can be cleared by repeating the process and selecting the ‘NONE’ entry.

PLCHA PLCHA

Figure 5-47: Port Destination Select Menu

PLCHB PLCHB

STGAN STGAN

PRGRM PRGRM

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-21

CONFIGURING A PARTY LINE

Before enabling a party line from the basestation’s front panel the type of party line must be set on the basestation so that it can set the proper termination, gain level, and call signalling for that system.

The three types of party line systems are: Clear-Com, Drake, and RTS.

To select the type of party-line system for a party-line port

1. Select PORTS from the main menu, then select PLCHA or PLCHB from the AVAILABLE AUDIO port menu which appears.

2. The port configuration menu is displayed. Scroll rightwards to display the second page of the menu.

3. Select TYPE. The first port type menu is displayed.

TYPE OF PLCHA - PLCHA

CLEAR-COM

Figure 5-48: First Party Line Connection Type Menu

4. All the options on the first menu imply that the party line port will have termination enabled. If this is correct select either Clear-Com, Drake, or RTS. If the party line port should have termination disabled because the party line is already terminated by another device scroll rightwards to display the second party line type menu.

DRAKE

RTS

BACK

TYPE OF PLCHA - PLCHA

Figure 5-49: Second Party Line Connection Type Menu

5. Select ‘OFF’ to disable party line termination on the port. This will apply regardless of the type of party line connected to the port. For example if the party line is connected to an MS-702 master station with termination enabled the basestation termination must be disabled.

6. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

The basestation automatically sets the port’s termination, gain, and call signalling options for the selected party line type.

To configure the noisegate for a party-line port

The noisegate sets a cutoff level below which audio input is ignored in order to avoid transmitting low levels of background noise. The noisegate can be set to a value in the range -70dB to -10dB when enabled.

OFF

BACK

5-22

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

1. Select PORTS from the main menu, then select PLCHA or PLCHB from the AVAILABLE AUDIO port menu which appears.

2. The port configuration menu is displayed. Scroll rightwards to display the second page of the menu.

3. Select GATE. The noisegate menu is displayed.

SELECT PLCHA NOISEGATE PARAM

STATE OFF

Figure 5-50: Party Line Noisegate Menu

4. Scroll to the ‘STATE’ option and press the setup/enter knob to display the noisegate state menu.

LEVEL

-70

DELAY 100

BACK

Trigger PLCHA calls from VOX? (Curr. NO)

Figure 5-51: Party Line Noisegate Options Menu

Scroll through the options to enable or disable the noisegate and use the enter function to select the required state. The main noisegate menu will be redisplayed.

5. Select the level entry to display the party line level setup menu.

YES

BACK

SET PLCHA NOISEGATE LEVEL

-65dB

Figure 5-52: Party Line Noisegate Trigger Level

The vertical bar indicates the noisegate trigger level. Turning the setup knob clockwise increases the noisegate level (towards the maximum -10dB) and turning it anticlockswise reduces the noisegate level (towards -70dB). The horizontal bar indicates the current input audio level in real-time to assist in setting the noisegate level.

6. Select the ‘DELAY’ option on the noisegate menu to set the VOX off delay level. This allows the operator to set a delay in ms before audio is cut by the noisegate.

TRIG -70dB

Select VOX o delay in (ms) for PLCHA

100

Figure 5-53: VOX Delay Setup

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-23

The VOX delay can be set to values between 50ms and 5000ms in 50ms steps. Turn the Setup knob clockwise to increase the delay and anticlockwise to reduce the delay.

To configure the levels for a party-line port

The Levels menu allows Input, Output and nulling levels to be set for a party line.

1. Select the party line port and then select ‘LEVELS’ from the party line menu to display the levels menu.

Editing levels for PLCHA - PLCHA (in dB)

INPUT 0

Figure 5-54: Level Editing Menu for Party Line

2. Select the ‘INPUT’ item to display the input level setup menu.

OUTPUT 0

LoNULL 116

HiNULL 27

BACK

Input level for PLCHA - PLCHA (dB)

Figure 5-55: Party Line Input Level

3. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the level in 1 dB increments between -20dB and +6dB.

4. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

6. Select the ‘OUTPUT’ item to display the output level setup menu.

Output level for PLCHA - PLCHA (dB)

Figure 5-56: Party Line Output Level

5-24

7. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the level in 1 dB increments between -20dB and +6dB.

8. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

9. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds af ter the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

10. Select the ‘LoNULL’ item to display the output level setup menu.

LH Nulling level for PLCHA - PLCHA (dB)

Figure 5-57: Party Line LoNULL Level

11. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the nulling level in increments of 1 between 0 and 200.

12. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

13. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

14. Select the ‘HiNULL’ item to display the output level setup menu.

RH Nulling level for PLCHA - PLCHA (dB)

Figure 5-58: Party Line HiNULL Level

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

15. Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the nulling level in increments of 1 between 0 and 200.

16. When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter knob to select it,

17. The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter knob was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.

5-25

BASESTATION SYSTEM MENU

The basestation SYSTEM menu offers several system-wide capabilities, including giving information on firmware, DECT system ID, IP address, and active antenna status, in addition to locking the front-panel enable buttons, remote microphone kill, and restoring the most recent downloaded configuration.

The left and right arrows at the edges of the display allow scrolling backwards and forwards between screens on the system menu.

From the MAIN menu, select SYSTEM. The SYSTEM menu appears as shown in Figure 5-59.

SYSTEM MENU

BATTERY

RMK

Figure 5-59: System Menu 1

Rotate the setup/enter knob clockwise to scroll through the list and display further options.

ANTENNAS

BACK

SYSTEM MENU

LOCK

Figure 5-60: System Menu 2

DEFAULTS

SYSTEM MENU

INFO

Figure 5-61: System Menu 3

BACK

The following sections describe the items on this menu.

BACK

5-26

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

SYSTEM INFO (“INFO”)

When INFO is selected the screen displays the system’s current firmware version, DECT system ID (for registering beltpacks), and if applicable, IP address.

BUILD: JAN 21 2009 17:29:37 V2.0.0.037 => NEW FROM A SYSTEMID: 100EC012 (A11)SYS:1 IPADDRESS: 129.67.61.36

Figure 5-62: System Info Menu

To return to the SYSTEM menu, press the setup/enter button.

RESTORING THE DEFAULTS (“DEFAULT”)

When DEFAULT is selected a screen appears asking the user to confirm restoring the last configuration downloaded with reset applied. The default is ‘NO’. Select either yes or no.

Select map...

USER MAP

F.DEFAULT

BACK

Figure 5-63: Restore Defaults Menu

ANTENNAS (“ANTENNAS”)

When ANTENNAS is selected the display shows the status of the active antennas that are connected to the basestation, and shows the slots on each antenna that are occupied by beltpacks. This informatio n may be useful during a site survey, or when troubleshooting coverage areas or antenna connections.

A typical display is shown below:

1> ---- ---- ---- ---- ---2> ---- ---- ---- ---- ---3> 2 4 ---- ---- ---4> 5>

The numbers 1 through 10 represent the maximum number of antennas that can be connected to the basestation. Numbers 1 through 5 can be positions on a splitter connecte d to transceiver port 1, while 6 through 10 can be positions on a splitter connected to transceiver port 2. An antenna connected directly to transceiver port 2 would appear at position 6.

6> 1 ---- ---- ---- --- 7> 3 ---- ---- ---- --- 8> 9> 10>

SYSTEM: 1 TOTAL ONLINE: 4

Figure 5-64: ANTENNAS menu

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

5-27

“__” indicates an empty slot on an active antenna that is connected to the basestation. A number in place of a “__” indicates that this slot is occupied by the indicated beltpack.

Blank spaces next to an antenna number indicate tha t no ante nna has been detected in this position.

So, for example, the above display would indicate that five antennas are connected to the basestation in positions 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7. There are no active antennas in positions 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10.

There are 4 beltpacks currently connected. Beltpacks 2 and 4 occupy the first 2 slots of antenna 3; beltpack 1 occupies the first slot of antenna 6; and beltpack 3 occupies the first slot of antenna 7.

The display updates every 4 seconds to reflect changes in antenna status and beltpack connections.

Rotate or push in the setup/enter knob to exit this menu.

SETTING THE IP ADDRESS (“IP”)

When IP is selected a screen appears allowing the IP address of the basestation to be set.

Enter IP address for system 1

129

167

Figure 5-65: IP Address Menu

161

136

BACK

The IP address may be changed by use of the Enter/Setup rotary encoder. The current part of the IP address that will be changed is highlighted and slowly rotating the encoder increases the IP address in increments of 1 per step whilst rapidly rotating the encoder increases the IP address in increments of 10 per step. When the required value is set press the encoder to confirm it and then rotate the encoder one step to select the next part of the IP address and rep eat the procedure.

When the required IP address has been set select ‘BACK’ to save the IP address and exit the menu.

To exit without saving any changes to the IP address allow the menu to timeout (about 30 seconds).

5-28

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

LOCKING FRONT-PANEL ENABLE BUTTONS (“LOCK”)

When LOCK is selected a menu appears that allows the user to lock the front-panel enable buttons for party-line channel A, party-line channel B, and the wired program source.

Lock on Enable buttons is currently OFF

Figure 5-66: Lock Enable Menu

Selecting ON for the lock maintains whatever state the buttons are in when they are locked. That state is maintained even when the basestation is turned off and re-started. The buttons can be locked either in the enabled or disabled position, in any desired combination.

Selecting OFF allows the buttons to be toggled on and off with a single push.

OFF

BACK

REMOTE MICROPHONE KILL (“RMK”)

When RMK is selected the remote microphone kill menu will be displayed.

Beltpack Remote MIC Kill

KILL(BP)

Figure 5-67: Remote MIC Kill Menu

KILL(PL)

KILL(ALL)

BACK

Clear-Com Communication Systems FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Kill Beltpack Microphones (“KILL(BP”)

Selecting this function will kill the microphones on all the wireless beltpacks connected to the basestation. Beltpack users will have to press a talk key again to re-enable the beltpack microphone.

Kill Party Line Microphones (“KILL(PL)”)

Selecting this function will kill the microphones on all the party line stations connected to the basestation. As this operates by interrupting the power to the party line stations it does not kill microphones on party line stations that are externally powered .i.e not powered from the FreeSpeak basestation.

5-29

Kill All Microphones (“KILL(ALL)”)

Selecting this function will kill the microphones on all beltpacks and party line stations attached to the FreeSpeak basestation other than party line stations that are externally powered.

Beltpack and party line users must press a talk button in order to re-enable microphones afterwards.

BATTERY INDICATOR (“BATTERY”)

Selecting the “BATT” function will display the battery life monitor screen.

BPK01

---

BPK11

---

BPK02 60%

BPK12

---

BPK03 73%

BPK13

---

BPK04 50%

BPK14

---

BPK05 80%

BPK15

---

BPK06 73%

BPK16

---

BPK07 40%

BPK17

---

BPK08 73%

BPK18

---

BPK09

---

BPK19

---

BPK10 75%

BPK20

---

Figure 5-68: Battery Level Menu

The line below the title line is battery monitor that shows the battery levels of all beltpacks that are connected to the basestation. When the battery level of a beltpack drops to the alarm level and the battery low alarm is triggered the display for that beltpack will be displayed highlighted.

5-30

Clear-Com Communication Systems

FreeSpeak V2.0 Instruction Manual

Clear-Com FreeSpeak Antenna Splitter User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

CONTENTS

FIGURES

TABLES

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

EMC AND SAFETY

FREESPEAK FEATURES

A FREESPEAK COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

IMPORTANT INSTALLATION INFORMATION

System Password

Default Map

QUICK START

CONNECTING THE BASESTATION

OVERVIEW OF BELTPACK OPERATION

ASSIGNING LABELS TO THE FREESPEAK BELTPACKS

CREATING A GROUP

CALLING THE GROUP FROM THE 4-WIRE AUDIO DEVICE

CALLING THE GROUP FROM THE WIRED PARTY-LINE BELTPACK

CREATING A WIRELESS PARTY LINE

ASSIGNING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE LABEL TO FREESPEAK BELTPACK KEYS

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE BELTPACKS

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE 4-WIRE AUDIO DEVICE

CALLING THE WIRELESS PARTY LINE FROM THE WIRED PARTY-LINE BELTPACK

INTRODUCTION

Headset Connector

A/B Reply Button

Party Line Channels A and B Enable Switches

Program Audio Enable Switch and Light

Antenna Light Display

Display Screen

Setup/Enter Knob

Power Switch

IEC Power Connector

Party Line Channel A Connectors

Party Line Channel B Connectors

Program Input Connector

Stage Announce Output Connector

Stage Announce Relay

4-Wire Matrix Ports

Base Loop Connector (not used)

LAN Connector

PC Connector

Transceiver Connectors

CONNECTING TO PARTY-LINE INTERCOM SYSTEMS

CLEAR-COM AND COMPATIBLE PARTY-LINE

CONNECTING DIRECTLY TO CLEAR-COM PARTY-LINE BELTPACKS

CONNECTING TO AN RTS™ WIRED BELTPACK

FRONT-PANEL ADJUSTMENTS FOR PARTY-LINE CONNECTIONS

TROUBLESHOOTING PARTY-LINE CONNECTIONS

Reducing FreeSpeak Beltpack echo when talking to a analogue party-line

How to set the microphone gain in the beltpack

Include the Party-Line channel inside a Wireless Party-Line group

How to set the VOX gating level on the Party-Line connected to the Basestation

Auto null the Party-Line channel at the Basestation

WIRELESS PARTY LINE

CONNECTING TO 4-WIRE AND DIGITAL MATRIX INTERCOM

CONNECTING WITH CLEAR-COM MATRIX PLUS

CONNECTING WITH CLEAR-COM ECLIPSE DIGITAL MATRIX

CONNECTING WITH OTHER 4-WIRE DEVICES

CONNECTING TO A PROGRAM AUDIO SOURCE

IFB CONFIGURATION

CONNECTING TO THE STAGE ANNOUNCE OUTPUT

CONNECTING TO A PC

CONNECTING VIA THE SERIAL PORT

CONNECTING VIA THE LAN PORT

CONNECTING ONE TRANSCEIVER/ANTENNA (FS-TA) DIRECTLY TO A TRANSCEIVER PORT

CONNECTING TRANSCEIVER/ANTENNAS WITH A SPLITTER (PD2203)

POWERING AN ANTENNA OR ANTENNA SPLITTER

A NOTE ABOUT TERMINOLOGY

SAVING CHANGES

BASESTATION PASSWORD

CHANGING BELTPACK LABELS

SETTING AND CHANGING PORT LABELS

SETTING AND CHANGING GROUP LABELS

ADDING GROUP MEMBERS

BELTPACKS

ASSIGNING LABELS TO BELTPACKS KEYS