Crown IQAMB-5, IQSMX-6 User Manual

*AMB-5 / *SMX-6

ENABLEDATA

ENABLEDATA

IQ Mixer/Multiplexers with Automatic Signal Processing

Printed on

recycled paper.

© 1999 by Crown International, Inc., P.O. Box 1000, Elkhart, Indiana 46515-1000 U.S.A. Telephone:
219-294-8000. The

™

IQ2

is a trademark and

International, Inc. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

IQ–AMB-5 and IQ–SMX-6

Crown

®

,

IQ System

are produced by Crown International, Inc. Trademark Notice:

®

,

Com-Tech

®,

and

®

PZM

are registered trademarks of Crown

126869-1

8/99

3

YEAR

THREE YEAR

FULL WARRANTY

3

YEAR

WORLDWIDE

The Crown Audio Division of Crown International, Inc., 1718 West
Mishawaka Road, Elkhart, Indiana 46517-4095 U.S.A. warrants to you,
the ORIGINAL PURCHASER and ANY SUBSEQUENT OWNER of
each NEW Crown
of purchase by the original purchaser (the “warranty period”) that the
new Crown product is free of defects in materials and workmanship, and
we further warrant the new Crown product regardless of the reason for
failure, except as excluded in this Crown Warranty.

1

Note: If your unit bears the name “Amcron,” please substitute it for the

name “Crown” in this warranty.

ITEMS EXCLUDED FROM THIS CROWN WARRANTY

This Crown Warranty is in effect only for failure of a new Crown product
which occurred within the Warranty Period. It does not cover any product
which has been damaged because of any intentional misuse, accident,
negligence, or loss which is covered under any of your insurance
contracts. This Crown Warranty also does not extend to the new Crown
product if the serial number has been defaced, altered, or removed.

We will remedy any defect, regardless of the reason for failure (except
as excluded), by repair, replacement, or refund. We may not elect refund
unless you agree, or unless we are unable to provide replacement, and
repair is not practical or cannot be timely made. If a refund is elected,
then you must make the defective or malfunctioning product available to
us free and clear of all liens or other encumbrances. The refund will be
equal to the actual purchase price, not including interest, insurance,
closing costs, and other finance charges less a reasonable depreciation
on the product from the date of original purchase. Warranty work can
only be performed at our authorized service centers. We will remedy the
defect and ship the product from the service center within a reasonable
time after receipt of the defective product at our authorized service
center.

You must notify us of your need for warranty service not later than ninety
(90) days after expiration of the warranty period. All components must
be shipped in a factory pack. Corrective action will be taken within a
reasonable time of the date of receipt of the defective product by our
authorized service center. If the repairs made by our authorized service
center are not satisfactory, notify our authorized service center
immediately.

YOU ARE NOT ENTITLED TO RECOVER FROM US ANY
INCIDENTAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE
NEW CROWN PRODUCT. THIS INCLUDES ANY DAMAGE TO
ANOTHER PRODUCT OR PRODUCTS RESULTING FROM SUCH A
DEFECT.

No person has the authority to enlarge, amend, or modify this Crown
Warranty. This Crown Warranty is not extended by the length of time
which you are deprived of the use of the new Crown product. Repairs
and replacement parts provided under the terms of this Crown Warranty
shall carry only the unexpired portion of this Crown Warranty.

We reserve the right to change the design of any product from time to
time without notice and with no obligation to make corresponding
changes in products previously manufactured.

No action to enforce this Crown Warranty shall be commenced later than
ninety (90) days after expiration of the warranty period.

THIS STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ANY OTHERS

CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL FOR CROWN PRODUCTS.

Telephone: [phone]. Facsimile: 219-294-8301

SUMMARY OF WARRANTY

1

product, for a period of three (3) years from the date

WHAT THE WARRANTOR WILL DO

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE

DISCLAIMER OF CONSEQUENTIAL

AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES

WARRANTY ALTERATIONS

DESIGN CHANGES

LEGAL REMEDIES OF PURCHASER

9/90

NORTH AMERICA

The Crown Audio Division of Crown International, Inc., 1718 West Mishawaka
Road, Elkhart, Indiana 46517-4095 U.S.A. warrants to you, the ORIGINAL
PURCHASER and ANY SUBSEQUENT OWNER of each NEW Crown product,
for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase by the original purchaser
(the “warranty period”) that the new Crown product is free of defects in materials
and workmanship. We further warrant the new Crown product regardless of the
reason for failure, except as excluded in this Warranty.

This Crown Warranty is in effect only for failure of a new Crown product which
occurred within the Warranty Period. It does not cover any product which has
been damaged because of any intentional misuse, accident, negligence, or loss
which is covered under any of your insurance contracts. This Crown Warranty
also does not extend to the new Crown product if the serial number has been
defaced, altered, or removed.

We will remedy any defect, regardless of the reason for failure (except as
excluded), by repair, replacement, or refund. We may not elect refund unless you
agree, or unless we are unable to provide replacement, and repair is not practical
or cannot be timely made. If a refund is elected, then you must make the defective
or malfunctioning product available to us free and clear of all liens or other
encumbrances. The refund will be equal to the actual purchase price, not
including interest, insurance, closing costs, and other finance charges less a
reasonable depreciation on the product from the date of original purchase.
Warranty work can only be performed at our authorized service centers or at the
factory. We will remedy the defect and ship the product from the service center
or our factory within a reasonable time after receipt of the defective product at our
authorized service center or our factory. All expenses in remedying the defect,
including surface shipping costs in the United States, will be borne by us. (You
must bear the expense of shipping the product between any foreign country and
the port of entry in the United States and all taxes, duties, and other customs fees
for such foreign shipments.)

You must notify us of your need for warranty service not later than ninety (90) days
after expiration of the warranty period. All components must be shipped in a
factory pack, which, if needed, may be obtained from us free of charge. Corrective
action will be taken within a reasonable time of the date of receipt of the defective
product by us or our authorized service center. If the repairs made by us or our
authorized service center are not satisfactory, notify us or our authorized service
center immediately.

YOU ARE NOT ENTITLED TO RECOVER FROM US ANY INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE NEW CROWN
PRODUCT. THIS INCLUDES ANY DAMAGE TO ANOTHER PRODUCT OR
PRODUCTS RESULTING FROM SUCH A DEFECT. SOME STATES DO NOT

ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR
EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

No person has the authority to enlarge, amend, or modify this Crown Warranty.
This Crown Warranty is not extended by the length of time which you are deprived
of the use of the new Crown product. Repairs and replacement parts provided
under the terms of this Crown Warranty shall carry only the unexpired portion of
this Crown Warranty.

We reserve the right to change the design of any product from time to time without
notice and with no obligation to make corresponding changes in products
previously manufactured.

THIS CROWN WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, YOU
MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
No action to enforce this Crown Warranty shall be commenced later than ninety
(90) days after expiration of the warranty period.

ITEMS EXCLUDED FROM THIS CROWN WARRANTY

DISCLAIMER OF CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES

THIS STATEMENT OF WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ANY OTHERS

CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL FOR CROWN PRODUCTS.

Telephone: [phone]. Facsimile: 219-294-8301

SUMMARY OF WARRANTY

WHAT THE WARRANTOR WILL DO

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE

WARRANTY ALTERATIONS

DESIGN CHANGES

LEGAL REMEDIES OF PURCHASER

9/90

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

1) Read these instructions.

2) Keep these instructions.

3) Heed all warnings.

4) Follow all instructions.

5) Do not use this apparatus near water.

6) Clean only with a dry cloth.

7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.

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

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

11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufac­turer.

12) Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table 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.

13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused
for long periods of time.

14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is
required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way,
such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the ap­paratus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not oper­ate normally, or has been dropped.

Important Safety Instructions

Reference Manual

Page 3IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

The information furnished in this manual does not include all of the details of design, production,
or variations of the equipment. Nor does it cover every possible situation which may arise during
installation, operation or maintenance. If you need special assistance beyond the scope of this
manual, please contact our Technical Support Group.

Crown Audio Technical Support Group

Plant 2 SW, 1718 W. Mishawaka Rd., Elkhart, Indiana 46517 U.S.A.

Phone: [phone] (North America, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) or 219-294-8200

Fax: [phone] Fax Back (North America only): 800-294-4094 or 219-293-9200

Fax Back (International): 219-294-8100 Internet: http://www.crownintl.com email: [e-mail]

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE!

PLEASE NOTE

The following universal symbols may appear on your product and/or in various
sections of this manual. Wherever they appear, they are to be interpreted as follows:

Lightning Bolt Symbol:

This symbol is used to alert the user to the presence of dangerous
voltages and the possible risk of electric shock.

Exclamation Mark Symbol:

This symbol is used to alert the user to refer to the instruction
manual for important operating or maintenance instructions.

FCC Class A Compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A
Digital Device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Op­eration of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference
in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by
the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.

Note: For a system to comply with FCC rules, all components in the system must be
in compliance. Please consult the instruction manuals of all components in an IQ
System for FCC compliance.

Page 4 IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

Reference Manual

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

This procedure is provided for those who are already familiar with Crown’s

IQ System

®

and who would like to install the mixer/multiplexer in the
shortest time possible. Less experienced installers or those wishing a full
explanation of the installation procedure are encouraged to go to Section
3 where the full installation procedure is described.

Prepare the mixer/multiplexer:

1 Set the IQ address switch (Figure 3.3) on the mixer/multiplexer to

an unused IQ address.

3 If the mixer/multiplexer is to be used as a system interface, set the

baud rate and parity switches.

Mounting:

4 Mount the unit into a standard 19-inch (48.3-cm) equipment rack or

cabinet, or it can be stacked.

Install the wiring:

5 Connect the mixer/multiplexer to the IQ System via the Crown Bus,

or directly to the host computer if the mixer/multiplexer is to be used
as the system interface (see Section 3.1 if more information is
needed).

6 Turn off all amplifiers or other equipment that will either feed or be

connected to the unit

7 Connect the audio wiring to the mixer/multiplexer inputs and out-

puts.

8 Connect any circuits to be used with the AUX connector to the unit.

9 Connect the unit to the AC receptacle.

Prepare the audio system:

10 Set all equalizers, filters, delays and any other processing equip-

ment the will be in the signal chain before or after the mixer/multi­plexer.

11 Set and verify all level and gain settings on all amplifiers or other

equipment that will either feed or be connected to the unit

Configure the mixer/multiplexer:

12 Set input selector switches for Mic, Line, or Phantom, depending

upon input signal to be fed to the input.

13 Set gain levels on the back of the unit.

14 Use IQ software to set up the mixer/multiplexer software-controlled

features.

Quick Install Procedure

.

.

Reference Manual

Page 5IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

CONTENTS

Quick Install Procedure ................................................................. 5

1 Welcome ......................................................................................... 8

1.1 Unpacking .............................................................................. 8

2 Controls, Connectors & Indicators ................................................ 9

3 Hardware Installation ................................................................... 10

3.1 Connecting to a Host Computer ............................................ 10

3.2 Connecting to the Crown Bus ................................................ 11

3.2.1 Set the IQ Address Switch .......................................... 11

3.2.2 Connect to the IQ System via the Crown Bus .............. 12

3.3 Connect the Audio Wiring ...................................................... 14

3.6 Connect Auxiliary Devices .................................................... 14

4 Operation ...................................................................................... 15

4.1 Hardware .............................................................................. 15

4.1.1 IQ Address Switch .......................................................... 15

4.1.2 Baud Rate and Parity Switch ........................................... 15

4.1.3 Enable Indicator.............................................................. 15

4.1.4 DATA Indicator ................................................................ 15

4.1.5 Main Audio Inputs ........................................................... 15

4.1.6 Sense Input ..................................................................... 15

4.1.7 Main Audio Outputs ........................................................ 15

4.1.8 Bus Outputs .................................................................... 15

4.1.9 Stack Audio Inputs .......................................................... 15

4.1.10 Crown Bus Connector ..................................................... 16

4.1.11 Crown Bus Ground Connector ........................................ 16

4.1.12 RS232 Serial Port ........................................................... 16

4.1.13 Sensing AUX Port ........................................................... 16

4.2 Computerized Control and Monitoring

4.2.1 Manual/Auto Mode .......................................................... 16

4.2.2 Input Level Monitors ........................................................ 16

4.2.3 Output Level Monitors ..................................................... 16

4.2.4 Bus Output Relays .......................................................... 16

4.2.5 VCA Gain Controls .......................................................... 16

Automatic Mixing Features

4.2.6 Gate ................................................................................ 16

4.2.7 Duck Priority ................................................................... 17

4.2.8 Input Compressor ........................................................... 17

4.2.9 Auto Level....................................................................... 17

4.2.10 Output Compressor ........................................................ 18

4.2.11 Gate Count ..................................................................... 18

4.2.12 Ambience .......................................................................

4.3 Crown Local Net ................................................................... 19

18

5 Technical Information .................................................................. 19

5.1 Audio 19

5.1.1 Input Section .............................................................. 19

5.1.2 VCA Sections .............................................................. 19

5.1.3 Output Section ............................................................ 20

5.1.4 Level Sense Circuits ................................................... 20

5.2 Control and Interface Section ................................................ 20

5.2.1 Crown Bus Interface ....................................................... 20

5.2.2 RS232 Interface .............................................................. 20

5.2.3 D/A Converter ................................................................. 20

5.2.4 Log Amp and A/D Converter ........................................ 20

Page 6 IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

Reference Manual

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

5.3 Auxiliary Port ......................................................................... 20

6 IQ Audio In Depth ......................................................................... 23

6.1 A Closer Look at Audio Signal Wiring ........................................ 23

6.1.1 Input ............................................................................... 23

6.1.2 IQ–AMB-5 Ambient Sensing Input ................................... 24

6.1.3 Ouput ............................................................................. 24

6.1.4 Stack Inputs .................................................................... 25

6.1.5 Paralleling Inputs ............................................................ 26

6.2 Using the AUX Port ............................................................... 27

6.3 The Mixer/Multiplexer as IQ Interface .................................... 28

6.4 Crown Local Net ................................................................... 28

6.4.1 Wiring the Crown Local Net ........................................ 28

6.5 A Closer Look at Crown Bus Wiring ....................................... 29

7 IQ Address Tables ........................................................................ 30

8 Factory Service ............................................................................ 32

Illustrations

Figure 1.1 The IQ–AMB-5 and IQ–SMX-6 ........................................................ 8

Figure 2.1 IQ Mixer / Multiplexer Controls, Connectors & Indicators ................ 9

Figure 3.1 IQ System with Host Computer and Two Mixer/Multiplexers ......... 10

Figure 3.2 RS232 Cable Wiring ..................................................................... 11

Figure 3.3 Selecting IQ Address and Communication Parameters ................ 12

Figure 3.4 Four-Terminal Removable Barrier Block Plug ................................ 13

Figure 3.5 Crown Bus Wiring for Removable Barrier Blocks .......................... 13

Figure 3.6 Crown Bus Wiring for 5-pin DIN Input ........................................... 13

Figure 3.7 Crown Bus Wiring for RJ-45 Input ................................................ 13

Figure 3.8 Crown Bus Wiring for 4-pin DIN Output ........................................ 13

Figure 3.9 Crown Bus Wiring for RJ-45 Output.............................................. 13

Figure 3.10 Crown Bus Wiring “Loop” from Output to Input ............................. 14

Figure 5.1 IQ–AMB-5 Block Diagram ............................................................ 21

Figure 5.2 IQ–SMX-6 Block Diagram ............................................................ 22

Figure 6.1 An Audio Input Section ................................................................ 23

Figure 6.2 Suggested Audio Input Gain Control Settings .............................. 23

Figure 6.3 Balanced Audio Input Wiring ........................................................ 23

Figure 6.4 Unbalanced Audio Input Wiring ................................................... 24

Figure 6.5 Sensing Input Section .................................................................. 24

Figure 6.6 Audio Output Section ................................................................... 25

Figure 6.7 Balanced Audio Output Connections ........................................... 25

Figure 6.8 Unbalanced Audio Output Connections ....................................... 25

Figure 6.9 A 12x2 Mixer Using 2 Mixer/Multiplexers ...................................... 25

Figure 6.10 Stacking the Outputs of Multiple Units .......................................... 26

Figure 6.11 A 6x8 Mixer Using 4 Mixer/Multiplexers ........................................ 26

Figure 6.12 Paralleling the Inputs of Multiple Units .......................................... 26

Figure 6.13 A 12x8 Mixer Using 8 Mixer/Multiplexers ...................................... 26

Figure 6.14 Sample Auxiliary System Wiring ................................................... 27

Figure 6.15 Internal Auxiliary Circuit ................................................................ 27

Figure 6.16 A Crown Local Net RS232 Serial Loop ......................................... 28

Figure 6.17 Crown Local Net Wiring ............................................................... 28

Figure 7.1 IQ Address Switch Settings from 0 to 125..................................... 30

Figure 7.2 IQ Address Switch Settings from 126 to 250................................. 31

Reference Manual

Page 7IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

Figure 1.1 The IQ–AMB-5 and IQ–SMX-6

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

ENABLEDSPI

ENABLEDSPI

1 Welcome

Thank you for purchasing a

Crown

®

IQ mixer/multi­plexer. IQ mixer/multiplexers are intelligent mixers with
special signal routing capabilities. Their intelligence
stems from a powerful onboard microprocessor which
enables them to be controlled by a Crown

IQ System

Each input and output can be individually controlled
and, with their

distributed intelligence

™

capability, con­tinue to operate even when an IQ System is not con­nected.

In addition to two main outputs (one for each channel),
each model has a second set of “bus” outputs which
are switched on and off by a relay. This enables many
mixer/multiplexers to be connected to a common au­dio bus without loading it down. They are designed to
work as stand-alone units in a small audio system, or
as modules in a large audio system.

Two models are available to serve different needs. The

IQ–SMX-6
AMB-5

™

model operates as a 6x2 mixer. The

™

can operate as a 5x1 mixer. Multiple units can

IQ–

be connected together to form larger mixers. For ex­ample, two IQ–SMX-6 mixers can be connected to­gether to form a single 12x2 mixer.

The IQ–SMX-6 provides basic mixing capabilities, as
well as automatic signal processing. A sensing circuit
is located at the beginning of each input to sense the
input signal level ahead of any signal processing. Simi­lar sensors, along with its onboard intelligence, enable
the IQ–SMX-6 to perform many versatile functions like
automatic mixing, compression, and automatic level
control.

Page 8 IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

The IQ–AMB-5 has the same functions as an IQ–SMX­6 plus it has the ability to sense ambient sound level
and automatically adjust its output level accordingly. In
this way it serves as the ultimate automatic level con-

®

troller. Input 6 is dedicated as the sensing input, leav-

.

ing 5 inputs to function normally as a 5x2 mixer. Unlike
the IQ–SMX-6, signal processing is only available for
Channel 1. Channel 2 functions as a manual mixer.

This manual will help you successfully install your unit.
Please read all the instructions, warnings and cautions
contained within it. Also, for your protection, please
send in the warranty registration card today. And save
the bill of sale—it is your official proof of purchase.

1.1 Unpacking

Please inspect the unit for any damage that may have
occurred during transit. If damage is found, notify the
transportation company immediately. Only you, the
consignee, may initiate a claim with the carrier for
shipping damage. Crown will cooperate fully as
needed. Save the shipping carton as evidence of
damage for the shipper’s inspection.

Please save all packing materials. NEVER SHIP THE

UNIT WITHOUT THE FACTORY PACK.

Reference Manual

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

2 Controls, Connectors & Indicators

Figure 2.1 IQ Mixer / Multiplexer Controls, Connectors & Indicators

Reference Manual

Page 9IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

RS232

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

ENABLEDSPI

ENABLE

ODEP

CH1 CH2

CH1 CH2

CH1 CH2

IOC

SPI

ODEP

IOC

SPI

ODEP

IOC

SPI

POWER

OFF

ENABLE

POWER

OFF

ENABLE

POWER

OFF

Figure 3.1 An IQ System with a Host Computer and Two Mixer/Multiplexers

3 Hardware Installation

The installation of an IQ mixer/multiplexer consists of
two major parts: installing the hardware and configur­ing the software. This manual deals only with hardware
installation. Refer to the appropriate software docu­mentation for instructions in setting up and operating
your IQ software.

Provide adequate cooling if the unit will be used in a
hot environment. It is good practice to allow one

empty rack space (1.75 inches or 4.4 cm.) between
each unit if more than four units will be stacked in a
cabinet. Each empty rack space should be sealed

with a blank rack panel.

The hardware installation is divided into 4 steps: 1)
connecting to a host computer 2) connecting to the
Crown Bus 3) connecting the audio inputs and outputs
and 4) connecting auxiliary devices

3.1 Connecting to a Host Computer (Step 1)

An IQ host computer is an IBM® PC-compatible com­puter which is used is used to configure or control/
monitor part or all of an IQ System. Depending upon
the design of your IQ System, it may or may not require
a host computer during normal operation.

ENABLEDSPI

ENABLE

ODEP

IOC

SPI

CH1 CH2

ODEP

IOC

SPI

CH1 CH2

POWER

OFF

ENABLE

POWER

OFF

CROWN BUS LOOP 1

ENABLE

ODEP

IOC

SPI

CH1 CH2

POWER

OFF

CROWN BUS LOOP 2

How the mixer/multiplexer will be used will determine
whether or not it will need to be connected directly to a
host computer. If the unit will be connected to the
Crown Bus it will not need to be connected directly to a
host computer. The following circumstances require
connection to a host computer:

• If a Crown Bus will not be used, the mixer/multi­plexer will need to be connected to a host com­puter so the software inside the unit can be
configured. Afterward, if manual control is not
required, the host computer can be discon­nected.

• If the mixer/multiplexer must be configured be­fore it is installed into an IQ System, it must be
connected directly to a host computer for con­figuration. The onboard memory of the unit will
maintain its software configuration without it
being plugged into an AC source.

• If the mixer/multiplexer will be used as an IQ
interface for other IQ–AMB-5 or IQ–SMX-6 mix­ers, it will need to be connected directly to a
host computer.

Page 10 IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6

Reference Manual

AMB-5 / SMX-6 IQ Mixer/Multiplexer

One of the advantages of connecting directly to a host
computer is that a separate IQ interface (IQ–INT-II) is
not required. If you plan to configure the unit while it is
connected to the Crown Bus, skip ahead to Section

3.2.

RS232 is commonly used with IBM PCs and com­patibles, and is the communication standard sup­ported by the mixer/multiplexer when used as an
interface. Because it uses unbalanced signal wiring, it
cannot be used for distances over 50 feet (15.2 m).

The following illustration shows how to wire the serial
cable:

• Use the highest baud rate possible. IQ mixer/
multiplexers can be set as high as 19.2 K baud.

• If the host computer fails to communicate with the
unit and the communication standard and pa­rameters are set correctly, try reducing the baud
rate of both the unit and the computer.

• If communication problems persist, check the se­rial cable for improper wiring or possible shorted
or broken wires.

• For further assistance contact the Crown Techni­cal Support Group (see Section 8 for contact in­formation.)

3.2 Connecting to the Crown Bus (Step 2)

The Crown Bus is a serial communication loop de­signed to transmit IQ commands and data. As a com­munication standard, it is independent of the wiring
system used. This flexibility is a great strength, en­abling a Crown Bus loop to be wired with either fiber
optic cabling or with inexpensive twisted-pair wire,
whichever the installation requires. A single
can have more than one Crown Bus loop. To function
properly, a Crown Bus loop must be unbroken.

IQ System

Figure 3.2 RS232 Cable Wiring

Important: Do not use twisted pair wire for RS232
because it increases crosstalk. Instead, use an un­twisted cable or ribbon cable.

Setting the communication parameters for RS232 se­rial communication is accomplished using the six-seg­ment baud rate and parity DIP switch shown in Figure

3.3. The first four switches select the baud rate and the
last two set the parity. Use the fastest baud rate pos­sible. The highest baud rate supported by the unit is

19.2 K baud. Parity checking is not supported and
should be OFF. The odd/even parity bit setting doesn't
matter when parity is switched OFF. The unit has been
factory set to 1 stop bit and 8 data bits.

The communication parameters of the host computer
are set by the IQ software. Please refer to the IQ
software documentation for information about setting
up communication parameters.

Here are some important guidelines when configuring
serial communication:

• Use the same communication parameters at
each end. The unit and the computer must be set
for the same baud rate and parity checking.

3.2.1 Set the IQ Address Switch

By giving each IQ component a unique address, it can
be individually controlled and monitored. Whenever
the IQ System wants to send a command to just one IQ
component, it first sends its address and then the
command down the Crown Bus.

The IQ Address switch has eight segments because it
actually contains eight tiny switches inside. The switch
is shown in Figure 3.3.

Each of the eight segments in the IQ Address switch
have a value which doubles as the number increases.
For example segment 1 has a value of 1; segment 2
has a value of 2; segment 3 has a value of 4; segment
4 has a value of 8 and so on.

The address is determined by adding the values of all
“ON” segments. In Figure 3.3, segments 2, 5, 6, and 7
are on. Simply add the values to find the address:
2+16+32+64=114.

A convenient series of IQ address tables are included
in Section 7. The tables show the switch settings for all
250 addresses.

No two IQ components of the same type which are
connected to the same Crown Bus can have the same
address. Suppose, for example, an IQ System has two

Reference Manual

Page 11IQ–AMB-5 / IQ–SMX-6