DCS dCS 904 User Manual
Analogue to Digital Converter
J
000
Standard Software version 1.5x
P3D Software version 1.36
© 1997, 1999, 2000 dCS Ltd
dCS 904
User Manual
une 2
All rights reserved. Reproduction of this manual in any manner whatsoever,
without the written permission of dCS
this manual may be obtained from dCS.
Information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice, and
whilst it is checked for accuracy, no liabilities can be accepted for errors.
1
Ltd is Data Conversion Systems Ltd. Company registered in the England no. 2072115
dCS
1
is strictly forbidden. Additional copies of
dCS 904 User Manual Manual for Software Version 1.5x and 1.36
dCS Ltd June 2000
RODUCT FEATURES
P
Formats -
• DSD, and PCM from 192 kS/s down to 32 kS/s
• Data formats supported are: AES/EBU (XLR and BNC), Dual AES (XLR),
Quad AES (XLR), AES data at TTL levels, and SDIF-2 (PCM and DSD),
SDIF-3 (DSD), DSD packed into 4 AES links
•
P3D option: DSD packed into 3 AES links
Syncing -
• Operates in Master mode or can sync to Word Clock or AES reference, or
signal, and sync to video option available
Functions -
• Very high performance ADC, free from gain ranging
• High quality VCXO internal clocking in Master mode
• Multichannel Sync capability
• Noise shaping truncation (1
st
, 3rd, 9th order)
• High speed or dual AES (88.2 kS/s, 96 kS/s)
• Dual or Quad AES (176.4 kS/s and 192 kS/s)
• Data mode – can take in digital data in both PCM and noise shape/truncate it,
and in DSD can re-pack it
Test Generator -
• High quality (160 dB) signal generator with mHz resolution. Can be noise
shaped truncated
Ease of Use -
• Remembers last settings
• Lockouts
• Software upgrade-able without opening the box
• Can be remote controlled from PC
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dCS 904 User Manual Manual for Software Version 1.5x and 1.36
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CONTENTS
Product Features ................................................................................................2
CONTENTS ..........................................................................................................4
About this Manual 5
Using Your dCS 904 For The First Time ............................................................6
Product Overview 6
What’s in the Box? 6
Mains Voltages 6
Installing Unit in a Rack 7
Getting Started 8
The Hardware – Controls and Connectors.....................................................10
Rear Panel 10
Front Panel 12
The Software – the Menu .................................................................................18
Overview 18
The Menu Sequence 19
Menu Items 20
Typical Applications.........................................................................................24
Using a dCS 904 to output DSD 24
Using a Master Clock to Sync a dCS 904 24
Storing DSD on an 8 track 16/44.1 PCM Recorder 25
Six Channel PCM Set Up 25
Storing 6 channel DSD on a 24 track 16/44.1 PCM Recorder 26
Operating Several Units on One Remote Chain 27
8 Channel P3D DSD Set Up with Monitoring 28
dCS 904 Technical Information.........................................................................30
Anti Alias Filtering 30
Clocking 31
DSD 32
Sample Alignment 37
Noise Shaping 41
Digital Interface Specifications 44
Analogue Input Specifications 45
Digital Data Formats Supported 46
AES3 (AES/EBU) Format 47
SDIF-2 50
RS-232 Remote Control Interface 53
Power Consumption 62
Size and Weight 62
Operating Conditions 63
General Technical Information........................................................................64
Word Length Reduction 64
Options ..............................................................................................................68
Maintenance and Support................................................................................70
Hardware 70
Software 71
Hardware Update or Calibration 72
Warranty 72
Safety and Electrical Safety 72
TroubleShooting...............................................................................................74
Error Codes and Messages 74
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Internal Device Error Codes 74
System Messages and Error Codes 75
Trouble Shooting Your System 75
dCS Support.......................................................................................................77
I wish .... 77
If You Need More Help 77
Other Information 77
Indexes and Software Version Numbers........................................................79
Definitions of Units 79
Full Contents 80
Tables 83
Figures 84
Keywords and Phrases 85
About this Manual
IMPORTANT!
Note that there is a fuller Contents at the end of the manual (page 80), along
with an index and lists of figures and tables.
References to other sections in the text have the "Section Name” page … in
quotation marks and bolded.
Important information is presented like this - ignoring this may cause you to
damage the unit, or invalidate the warranty.
The manual covers standard units and units with P3D option. P3D is a DSD data
format, and these units have changed internal hardware to accommodate it.
Information that is specific to P3D units is greyed.
The manual is designed to be helpful. If there are points you feel we could
cover better, or that we have missed out - please tell us.
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SING YOUR
U
dCS 904
Product Overview
The dCS 904 ADC (Analogue to Digital Converter) is a high performance
converter designed for studio and live recording applications. It is designed to
produce very high standard digital output (for example, 192 kS/s or DSD) that
may be used directly or archived. If these formats are used, lower resolution
formats (for example Red Book CD) may produced by subsequent
downsampling. AES3, SPDIF, SDIF-2 PCM formats and several DSD formats
are all supported. Multiple units may be slaved together for stable multi-channel
operation.
The unit is mains powered and is housed in a 1U (1.75”) high 19” rack mounting
case. It may be controlled either from its front panel, or from a software based
remote control running on a PC via a com port. The unit’s last setting is
automatically stored on power down, so that fixed installations may be set up at
leisure, installed and then left alone. Unauthorised alterations to settings may
be prevented by a “panel lock out” feature.
The unit is highly software based, and more functions and features are added
from time to time. Software updates from dCS are free!
What’s in the Box?
OR THE FIRST TIME
F
2
Mains Voltages
IMPORTANT!
The contents of the box are at least:
dCS 904
User Manual
Quick Start Guide
Mains Lead
2 Spare Fuses
Remote cable
Remote software
The dCS 904 is shipped with its mains voltage preset for operation in the
destination country. The voltage is not intended to be changed by the user. If it
needs to be changed, contact your dealer or dCS.
The dCS 904 must be used with a mains earth!
2
free if we email them, and you download from a PC com port. Low cost if you ask us for EPROMs or other
media - we charge for media and handling.
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Installing Unit in a Rack
The unit is supplied with 19" rack mount ears fitted. If it is to be mounted in a
19" rack, the ears supplied may be used to locate it in the rack and stop the unit
sliding forward – but they are not strong enough to support the unit.
IMPORTANT!
The ears should not be used as the only mechanical support. The unit should
rest on a shelf, or be supported in some other way. The ears will just locate
it in the rack, and stop it sliding forwards.
If the unit is not to be rack mounted, the ears may be removed.
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Getting Started
Here’s what to do:
(If the unit does not behave the first time you power up – contact your dealer, or
dCS.)
do this: Check the appropriate mains supply for your local mains is marked on the
rear panel.
do this: If it is, using the lead supplied, connect the unit to the mains - connect no
other leads at this stage - and switch on.
The seven segment display will briefly show:
- - - - 4
and then the sample rate, for example:
1 9 2
do this: Connect a signal source to the analogue inputs.
do this: Connect an output (eg from AES1) to your system or a DAC.
do this: Press the Sample Rate button (left hand end button) to get the sample
rate you want. Press the Output Format button (right hand end) to get the
format you want.
Set up like this, the dCS 904 will operate in Master mode, and the system it is
connected to will (have to) lock to it. You should have audio.
Use any of AES1, AES2, AES3, or AES4 as an output at 32 kS/s or 44.1 kS/s or
48 kS/s, or for double speed AES at 88.2 kS/s or 96 kS/s.
Use (AES1 + AES2) or (AES3 + AES4) for dual AES 88.2 kS/s or 96 kS/s or
176.4 kS/s or 192 kS/s.
Use all of (AES1 + AES2 + AES3 + AES4) for quad AES 176.4 kS/s or 192 kS/s.
For DSD, see the DSD section.
Note that all the outputs are active simultaneously on the dCS 904. If the mode
the unit is in needs them to be different, they will be – otherwise they will be the
same, and may all be connected to external equipment simultaneously if
required.
Now you will need to familiarise yourself with how the front panel controls and
the menu system work.
do this: Read the short section on “The Software – the Menu” on page 18 so
you know how the buttons and menu work.
You may also find it convenient to refer to the Quick Start Guide while you are
getting to know the unit.
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HE HARDWARE
T
ONTROLS AND CONNECTORS
– C
Rear Panel
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
CH1(L) CH2(R)
Analogue
Balanced Analogue Inputs 3 pin XLR female (2 off)
Input Level Adjustment (trimmers)
Reference In 3 pin XLR female
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
Figure 1– Rear Panel
All input and output connectors are mounted on the rear panel. Individual
connectors are clearly identified by the panel legend. Viewed from the rear from
left to right, the connectors are as follows:
Two multi-turn potentiometers set the full scale input levels. These are factory
preset for full scale with input levels of +20dBu. If necessary, adjust with a
suitable trim tool or a small screwdriver. Turn clockwise for increased gain. Take
care to ensure the stereo inputs remain in balance. The trim range is ±6dB.
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
In
Remote
Out
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
Reference Out 3 pin XLR male
Reference In is an AES/EBU reference input for synchronising the unit to a
Master Clock. Reference Out is an unbuffered loop through, directly coupled to
it, for use in a reference daisy chain. A terminating resistor may be turned on or
off, using the menu (see Ref In command, page 23), if several units are to be
daisy chained with the same word clock.
In addition, under the control of the ADC/Data button, the Reference In
connector can be used as a data input. In this mode, it takes data from the input
instead of from the internal ADC, and allows all the formatting and DSP
functions (such as noise shaping and word length control) to be applied to input
data. See page 14.
AES1, 2, 3 & 4 Digital Outputs 3 pin XLR male (4 off)
Four AES/EBU outputs which may be used independently or in groups of two or
four. They are used for the various PCM formats, including normal and double
speed and two and four wire, and also for some DSD formats.
SDIF/DSD CH1, CH2 Data BNC (2 off)
These BNC connectors can be both outputs and inputs. In normal operation
they are outputs for SDIF-2 encoded PCM, or for SDIF-2 and SDIF-3 encoded
DSD. They are both TTL level signals for a 75 ohm line. They can be set to TTL
level AES3 coded signals, using the menu (see the BNC O command, page 22).
In addition, they can be used for data input, for re-formatting DSD data, under
the control of the ADC/Data button (see page 14)
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SDIF/DSD Clk In BNC
SDIF/DSD Clk Out BNC
This pair take in and give out Word Clock, and can be set to Bit Clock for DSD.
The functions are set by the menu. Clock In is terminated and Clock Out is
regenerated internally, so these lines can be used for daisy chaining many units
together, without loading problems. See Figure 18 and Figure 19 for the time
alignment of these signals.
Remote In & Out 9 pin D type male (2 off)
If the Windows™ Remote software is in use, connecting Remote In to a com
port (RS-232 port) on a PC running the Remote Control program allows the unit
to be controlled by the PC. Remote Out may be connected to another suitably
equipped dCS unit, allowing several units to controlled by the same PC with one
RS-232 daisy chain. In addition, the unit may be software upgraded without
removing the lid by downloading new software via the Remote In port – see
Installing New Software on page 71.
Connect up Remote ports using a 9-way screened cable, fitted with 9-way ‘D’type connectors at each end, wired pin 1 to pin 1, pin 2 to pin 2, etc. The same
type of cable can be used unit to units as com port to first unit. Suitable cables
are available from dCS.
Mains Supply 3 pin IEC (CEE22)
Switched, fused and filtered IEC mains connector.
Additional Information -
As well as connectors, the rear panel displays the following information about
the unit, near the mains supply connector:
Mains Voltage The actual voltage setting supplied.
Model Number dCS 904
Manufacturers Name and Country of origin (dCS Ltd, UK)
Serial Number -
The underside of the unit will have a label on that contains a number such as
904 4B1 6B2 2A1 3A2 12345. This is the serial number, but it also contains vital
configuration information. We will need this number (all of it) to give you support
over the phone, or to ship you software updates.
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Front Panel
BIT
Sample
Rate
dCS 904
Multiplier Mute
A to D Converter
4
2
192
kHz
Sample Rate -
Multiplier -
Word
Noise
Length
Shaping
Overload
Level
Overload
MENU
Step Set
ADC/
Data
Master Slave
Output
Format
DSD
Direct Stream Digital
Sample Rate
kS/s
dC S
Data Conversion Systems
Figure 2 – Front Panel
The dCS 904 uses a combination of front panel buttons for frequently changed
functions and a step through menu for features you might set and forget.
The 2 buttons on the left side of the front panel select the sample rate. Press the
Sample Rate button repeatedly to cycle through the sample rates in the order:
192 ... 176.4 ... 96 ... 88.2 ... 48 ... 44.1 ... 32 ... 192 ... etc.
To step through more quickly, press the Multiplier button repeatedly to cycle
through in one of the following sequences, depending on the starting sample
rate:
48 ... 96 ... 192 ... 48 ... 96 ... 192 ... etc.
44.1 … 88.2 ... 176.4 ... 44.1 ... 88.2 ... 176.4 ... etc.
To change sample rates quickly, use the two buttons together. For example, to
change from 176.4 kS/s to 192 kS/s press Sample Rate once then Multiplier
once. Do not press the buttons too fast as a delay is built in to the software. The
sample rate selected is shown on the LED display in the centre of the panel.
Mute -
The Mute button forces a mute, in addition to the automatic ones. The digital
outputs are automatically muted at power up and when the sample rate is
changed or the unit is locking to a reference source. A forced mute is indicated
by the mute LED (above the mute switch) lighting up. In normal use, pressing
the Mute button mutes the digital outputs and lights the mute LED. Pressing the
Mute button again unmutes the ADC, as long as no automatic mute is being
applied.
Word Length -
Noise Shaping Menu
Back
The AES/EBU format accommodates data up to 24 bits. If a shorter word is
needed and the extra bits are just ignored, the result is typical “digital” sound
due to the abrupt chopping off of the low level signal information.
To avoid this, the dCS 904 allows proper truncation of the data and uses Noise
Shaping to maintain low level performance. See the section on “Word Length
Reduction” on page 64 for some background on this. If you do use word length
truncation, make sure that Noise Shaping is not set to OFF without realising it.
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Pressing the Word Length button repeatedly cycles the word length through the
sequence:
24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 24, etc.
The Word Length is briefly shown on the main display, and if a setting other than
the maximum is set, the word length LED (above the button) lights.
Noise Shaping is a technique which improves the noise performance of the ADC
in the audio band by moving the quantisation noise energy (introduced by
reducing the word length) from one part of the spectrum to another. It keeps it
out of the middle of the band, where the ear is most sensitive, and places it at
the top end or ultrasonic region, where the ear is less sensitive or insensitive.
See section “Word Length Reduction” on page 64 for more background.
Pressing the Noise Shaping button repeatedly cycles the unit through 5 noise
Shaping characteristics. The characteristic is shown briefly on the main display.
Auto Unit sets noise shaping automatically, depending
on word length:
24 bits – no noise shaping
20 to 23 bits – 1
16 to 19 bits – 3
Off No noise shaping
1st 1
3rd 3
9th 9
st
order noise shaping
rd
order noise shaping
th
order noise shaping
st
order noise shaping
rd
order noise shaping
The noise shaping LED (above the button) lights when the setting is other
than Auto.
For Menu operation as the
Back button, see the section “The Software –
the Menu” on page 18.
Overload Level Menu
Step
The Overload Level button is dual function – on its own (blue type on the front
panel) it sets the level at which overloads are detected by the unit. With the
other menu buttons (
white type on the front panel) it is the menu Step button.
Overload detection is normally set to full scale. The detection level may be
reduced in 0.1dB steps down to -3dB0 by pressing the Overload Level button
repeatedly or holding it down. The set level is shown on the display for a few
seconds. The overload level LED (above the button) lights when the setting is
other than full scale (0.0dB0).
For Menu operation as the
Step button, see the section “The Software – the
Menu” on page 18.
Overload Indicator (Overload LED)
This overload LED lights for a few seconds when the set overload level is
exceeded by a signal peak. The detection circuitry monitors both input and
digital filtering circuitry for overload conditions. The analogue input sensitivity
trims mounted on the rear panel should be set so that the overload indicator
does not light on signal peaks.
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The overload indication given by the dCS 904 is comprehensive. The detection
circuitry monitoring the digital filter does not simply check the final output word
but all the data from which the output word is formed. If any of these overload
(this may not be apparent from the output data), an overload is flagged.
The filter itself has sufficient numerical accuracy that if the input data is not
overloaded, the filter computations cannot generate an overload - only a raw
data overload can cause an error. The overload indication is thus much more
accurate than any external meter based indication - for this reason it is stored in
the AES/EBU validity bit for later reference.
ADC/Data Menu
The ADC/Data button is dual function – on its own (blue type on the front panel)
it sets the input mode (analogue or digital). W ith the other menu buttons (
type on the front panel) it is the menu
As an input mode switch, it switches between the analogue inputs (ADC mode)
or a digital input on the AES Reference input (Data mode).
Data mode routes the digital input through to the outputs, and makes noise
shaping, word length reduction and some reformatting available to it. For normal
operation, this is set to ADC (LED off). In Data mode, the ADC/Data LED lights
and the data stream on the AES Reference Input is output on the AES1-4
outputs. If the Reference Input sample rate is 88.2 or 96kS/s and the Output
Format is Dual AES, the input will be converted to Dual AES on AES1 & 2 and
AES3 & 4.
Data mode also affects the SDIF connectors (BNCs) in any DSD mode. The
data lines (two of the four connectors) become inputs, and DSD fed into these is
packed and re-formatted into the output format selected. No DSP is carried out.
For Menu operation as the
Menu” on page 18.
Master/Slave Menu
Set
white
Set button.
Set button, see the section “The Software – the
Down
The Master/Slave button is dual function – on its own (blue type on the front
panel) it sets the clocking mode (master or slave). With the other menu buttons
(
white type on the front panel) it is the menu Down button.
In Master mode, the calibrated voltage controlled crystal oscillators (VCXOs)
inside the unit generate an accurate sample rate. The LED labelled Master will
be lit to indicate this. If a Master Clock is available, this may be connected to the
Reference In connector (for AES/EBU reference) or the 75R In connector (for
SDIF-2 Word Clock). To slave the unit to the Master Clock, press the
Master/Slave button. The unit will attempt to lock to the Reference - this will
take a few seconds. If lock is achieved, the Slave LED will light up brightly and
the Master LED will turn off. To return to Master mode, press the Master/Slave
button again.
If both AES Reference and Word Clock are connected, pressing the
Master/Slave button cycles through the sequence:
Master ... AES Reference ... Word Clock ... Master ... etc.
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If the active reference source is lost, the unit will select the next option in the
sequence.
If the Auto-Slave option in the “Function Menu” is turned On the unit will
automatically slave when a suitable reference is connected. If both AES
Reference and Word Clock are connected, AES Reference takes priority. Word
Clock may be selected by pressing the Master/Slave button – it moves down
the priority list.
Once slaved, the unit can internally multiply the reference input sample rate by 2
or 4, if required, by pressing the Multiplier button. The Master Clock must be
set to a suitable sample rate:
Master Clock Sample
Rate (kS/s)
32 32
44.1 44.1 or 88.2 or 176.4
48 48 or 96 or 192
88.2 88.2 or 176.4
96 96 or 192
Table 1 Reference Clock and Sample Rates
For Menu operation as the Menu
– the Menu” on page 18.
Output Format Menu
The Output Format button is dual function – on its own (blue type on the front
panel) it sets the output format (single, dual, quad AES, etc). With the other
menu buttons (
white type on the front panel) it is the Up button.
Pressing the Output Format button repeatedly causes the output format to
cycle through the allowed options from the sequence:
Single AES ... Dual AES ... Quad AES ... Single AES ... etc.
If any format is not available at that sample rate, it is skipped from the
sequence.
dCS 904 Sample Rate (kS/s)
Down button, see the section “The Software
Up
Mode Display -
The single digit LED mode display to the right of the Format button shows the
output format:
Display
Output Format
0 DSD mode, AES outputs turned off
1 Single AES
2 Dual AES
3 P3D mode
4 Quad AES or 4 wire DSD
Table 2 Output Data format indication, higher sample rates
When the Output Format is selected, the main display briefly shows the format
code:
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A1 for Single AES, Standard speed encoding
b1 for Single AES, Double speed encoding
b2 for Dual AES, Standard speed encoding
C2 for Dual AES, Double speed encoding
C4 for Quad AES, Standard speed encoding
If an invalid combination is selected (e.g. Single AES at 192kS/s), the invalid
combination will flash (e.g. C1) then be replaced by the nearest available
combination.
In Single AES mode, the same data stream is available on all four AES outputs.
In Dual AES mode, two sets of identical data streams are available on AES1 & 2
and AES3 & 4 outputs. In Quad AES mode, the data stream uses all four AES
outputs.
In DSD mode, data in the AES outputs can be turned off (leaving the unit just
outputting an AES clock). This is controlled by the menu item DSD 4
(or AES O
for P3D optioned units). See page 20.
dCS equipment encodes messaging into the various data streams to enable
receiving equipment to tell what is going on, and to decide which wire is which,
in the unlikely event of user wiring errors. Not all equipment from other
manufacturers does this, so:
IMPORTANT!
Take extra care when connecting Quad AES as it is very easy to connect the
wires in the wrong order. If this is not detected, it may result in badly aliased
mono signals being recorded. Numbering each connector is a sensible
precaution.
For Menu operation as the
Menu” on page 18.
Sample Rate Display -
The main LED display generally shows the sample rate, in kS/s, or the mode
(DSD). When other parameters are set, it briefly shows the new setting (word
length, noise shaping, etc) then reverts to its normal display. In the case of an
error condition, it will display an error message.
If the unit is being slaved, the display also indicates which input connector it is
slaved to.
xxx The sample rate, in kS/s (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 86,
- xxx Slaved to the BNC input (typically, word clock).
--
xxx Slaved to AES Reference in.
There are also some temporary displays that show what the unit is doing during
its locking phase:
d xxx Temporary display during locking – the unit has
. xxx Temporary display during locking – the unit is lining
Up button, see the section “The Software – the
176.4, or 192).
detected the base reference sample rate and is
attempting to lock to it.
up word clock out to word clock in.
Important error messages are given below – a full list is given in the section
Error Codes and Messages on page 74.
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BadFs The clock source is not in pull in range, or is poorly
formatted. The unit cannot lock to it.
Err.xy An error has been detected. Please refer to
“Internal Device Error Codes” on page 74 for
more specific details on error codes.
Hot The unit is overheating, probably due to inadequate
ventilation. Please check positioning and cooling.
Ouch The “Hot” warning has been ignored and the unit is
getting so hot damage may follow.
(blank) If the display is completely blank for any significant
period, try switching off for 10 seconds then
switching on again. If this does not solve the
problem, contact your distributor or dCS.
The display is also used for
Menu options.
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HE SOFTWARE – THE MENU
T
Overview
The dCS 904 has many other functions that either need to be accessed only
occasionally, or are informative in nature. These functions can be accessed
either by the Remote software, running on a PC and connected to the unit by an
RS-232 link - or (in most cases) by the Menu. If a function is set by the menu or
the Remote, the unit remembers it, and it will be set this way for ever (or until
you set it to something different). You can customise your unit in this way.
Information only items are displayed for a time, then the display reverts to
normal.
Menu buttons are indicated by white text on the front panel. There are for:
Step otherwise Overload Level
Set otherwise ADC/Data
Down otherwise Master/Slave
Up otherwise Output Format
Back otherwise Noise Shaping
Entering the Menu -
The Menu is entered by holding down the
once. The display will show:
You are now in the menu, and the menu buttons now have their alternate
meanings.
Moving through the Menu -
Press the
Step button again to step through the Menu items listed below. When
you reach the required item, press the
setting, and press again to change its setting. This either toggles the previous
state, or causes an information function to read out, or enters a lower level (as in
the Tone generator, for example). If you have entered a lower level, pressing
Step steps through its options. When you reach the one you want, press Set
and then use the
Up or Down buttons to increase or decrease a value (such as
Level or Frequency on the Tone generator).
If no changes are made in 4 seconds, the unit exits the Menu. When one item
has been set, press the
through the Menu.
Step and then pressing the Set button
Func
Set button once to display the current
Step button again if you wish to continue cycling
There is a knack in doing this easily – once it has been gained, it becomes very
easy to use the functions it accesses.
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g
{
dCS Ltd June 2000
The Menu Sequence
To access the Function Menu, hold down the
To step through the Menu items, press the
To step back, press the
Noise Shapin
Menu Step
Menu Step
button.
To select an item or one of its options, press the
To exit the Function Menu, either select the
End
Menu Set
item or wait five seconds.
button and press the
button repeatedly.
button.
Menu Set
button.
AES 0
Func Issue Filt DSD DSD 4
Opens the
Function Menu
Displays the
fitted software
issue number
Selects an
alternative
filter
Selects DSD
mode
Enables DSD
on AES 1-4
XLR outputs
v 1.50 Filt 1 Off Off
Filt 2 On On
…P3D
Filt n DSD4
Heat 7 - Seg Test Tone DSD 0
Displays the
internal
temperature
Disables the 7-
segment display
when idle.
Runs a display
and DSP self
test routine
Turns on and
sets a test tone
Selects DSD
SDIF format
Fahrenheit On Level (dB) SDIF2
Celsius Off Freq (kHz) SDIF3
On / Off
Up
Phone Part S - No RS232 BNC O
Displays
telephone
number
dCS'
Displays the
control PCB
part number
Displays the
control PCB
serial number
Displays and
sets the unit's
RS232 address
Sets the mode
of the 75R Out
connector
dCS002540? 0002-540-?-? 0 ... 99 SDIF
AES
DSD modes only
CL. 1
CL. 64
End Loc Offst A - SL Ref In
Exits the
Function Menu
Locks out the
front panel
controls
Off
Trims the
mastermode
VCXO
frequency
+9.9 ~ -9.9ppm
Automatically
slaves when ref
input available
Off Loop
Sets the mode
of the AES Ref
I/O connectors
On On Loop.t
Int
Standard software v1.5x. Some features are not available in DSD mode.
P3D software v1.36. P3D mode is only available on some hardware configurations
Figure 3 – Menu Sequence
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Menu Items
Issue -
Displays the software issue when
Filt -
Selects one of several anti-alias filter responses. The filters should be evaluated
by ear. Filt1 gives the sharpest cut off, just below half the sampling frequency.
This is the normal setting. Filt2, Filt3, Filt4 give progressively more relaxed
responses, degrading the alias performance but sharpening the impulse
response. This affects the stereo or multi-channel image. Different filters may
be appropriate for different material.
DSD -
Turns on DSD mode
available (Off, On, P3D, DSD 4). When on, the unit displays “dSd”. The mode
takes about 15 seconds to load, during which time the menu cannot be used.
This mode is so different from PCM that most of the PCM related front panel
buttons are no longer appropriate. DSD is output on the BNC connectors, and
the following other changes occur:
- XLR outputs are clock only unless DSD 4
is on (see below).
- the BNC O options change to CL 1 (bit clock) or CL 64 (word clock)
- ADC/Data allows the SDIF connectors to be turned into inputs, so
that DSD data can be fed in and formatted
- Sample Rate, Multiplier, Mute, Word Length, Noise Shaping,
Overload Level, and Output Format buttons do not work
- the Tone Generator does not work
Set is pressed.
and in P3D units cycles through the DSD format options
(or AES O on P3D units)
DSD 4
The Master/Slave button works and the Auto Slave function (see later in Menu
Items) works. Filt works – there are 7 filter options in DSD mode. See the
section on “DSD” starting on page 32 for more details – they trade-off in-band
and out-of-band noise.
(or AES O for P3D units) -
This function controls the use of the XLR connectors on DSD mode. There are
two options, whose behaviour depends on whether the unit is a P3D unit or not.
Standard (non P3D) units:
Off The XLRs carry AES clock only
On The XLRs carry DSD data packed into 4 AES3
links for storage on 16 bit 8 channel 44.1 kS/s PCM
machines (non P3D units)
P3D units:
Off XLRs carry AES clock only
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On XLRs carry either DSD 4 format or P3D format, as
set by he DSD menu item. In P3D format, where
DSD to be packed into 3 AES3 links, the 4th XLR
output carries a PCM encoded signal for metering
purposes, to allow DSD to be recorded on existing
8 track 24 bit PCM recording machines, at a lower
than normal level
This XLR control function is separate from DSD mode for safety reasons.
Because DSD into a PCM device can cause full scale noise, with a very high
high frequency content that can damage speakers, this feature has to be
explicitly turned on.
If it is turned on, and DSD mode is turned on, the unit outputs DSD packed into
AES3 data streams in the appropriate manner. Contact dCS for further details
If DSD is packed into AES3 links (DSD 4 or P3D), the dCS 904 sets the Non
Audio flag in the AES3 message, so that a DAC further downstream will mute if
it cannot accept the format, but beware:
IMPORTANT!
if the Non Audio flag is stripped by the recorder, a DAC could accept DSD
data as AES3 PCM and will output potentially damaging full scale noise.
DSD O -
This page selects the output format of the SDIF connectors – SDIF-2 or SDIF-3.
SDIF-3 is only valid for DSD:
SDIF2 The BNCs output SDIF-2 formatted DSD in ADC
On The BNCs output SDIF-3 (embedded clock) in
Definitions of these formats are available from the SONY Corporation.
Tone -
This accesses a test generator, whose level and frequency can be adjusted.
Pressing Set enters a submenu, which accesses the following functions:
Level The output level, in dB0. It can be changed in
Freq The output frequency, in kHz. It can be changed
On/Off Toggles whether the generator is on or off.
Up Allows the menu to be re-entered to set other
mode
ADC mode.
0.1dB steps using the
Up and Down buttons.
below 1 kHz in 10 Hz steps, or above 1 kHz in
100 Hz steps by using the
Up and Down buttons.
functions. Alternatively, if left, the menu will just
time out keeping the last settings.
At power up, the generator is set to Off, 1 kHz and –18dB0 as a safety measure.
When in use, if the generator is turned Off, the unit remembers the last
frequency and level setting.
The generator frequency can be set to much finer (32 bit) resolution using the
RS-232 control. See section “RS-232 Remote Control Interface” on page 53
for more details.
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Test -
Runs a display and DSP self test routine. When successfully completed, the unit
displays Pass and returns to normal operation. Otherwise an error message
Err.xy is displayed – please refer to “Error Codes and Messages” on page 74
for more specific information.
7-Seg -
Disables the 7 segment LED display. When set to Off, the display turns off 4
seconds after the last button press. A dot in the lower right hand corner of the
display remains lit to indicate that the display has been deliberately blanked.
The display springs back into life (temporarily) if the menu is used subsequently.
Error or warning messages are displayed regardless of this setting.
Heat -
Displays the internal temperature of the unit, measured near the internal
VCXOs. Press
Set to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius. See section
“Operating Conditions” on page 63
Phone -
dCS telephone number scrolls across the display
Part -
The control board part number (version) scrolls along the display.
S-No -
The control board serial number scrolls along the display. You will need
something to write this on, if you call us for help.
RS232 -
Displays - and allows access to – the unit’s RS-232 identity code (an address
between 0 and 99). This is used by the remote control software, to send specific
messages to specific units. Use
operating several units in a multichannel set up.
IMPORTANT!
Each unit in the daisy chain MUST be set to a different RS-232 address.
BNC O -
Sets the format of the 75 ohm BNC outputs, and changes depending on whether
the unit is in PCM or DSD modes. In PCM mode, the options are
Up and Down to change this address if you are
AES Sends out AES3 coded data, but at TTL levels, at
up to 96 kS/s on the Clk Out connector.
SDIF Sends out SDIF-2 encoded data, with a word clock
on the Clk Out connector.
In DSD mode, the options are changed to:
CL 1 Sends out DSD data along with a bit clock on the
Clk Out connector.
CL64 Sends out DSD data along with a word clock on the
Clk Out connector.
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Ref In -
Sets the mode of the AES Reference In/Out connectors. The options are:
Loop Loops the input through to the output, with no
termination resistor (termination is then about
1kohm, so several units can be daisy chained).
Loop.t As above, but terminates the input. Use at the end
of a daisy chain.
Int The output (and input in parallel – beware!) is
internally driven, with the same signal as AES 1.
A-SL -
Turns Auto-slaving On or Off. When set to On, connecting an AES/EBU
reference or a word clock in causes the unit to slave and lights the Slave LED.
If both are present, the unit picks the highest priority one (AES/EBU) unless the
Master/Slave button is used to move down the priority list. When set to Off, the
unit does not react when a reference is connected.
Offst -
Trims the appropriate VCXO frequency in master mode, by up to ±9.9ppm in
0.1ppm steps. Use the
button down to accelerate the change. The trim is remembered.
Loc -
Panel Lock, normally Off. Set to On to prevent unauthorised changes
using buttons. The menu has to be accessed to turn the lock off again.
End -
Exits the menu.
Up and Down buttons to change this setting, hold a
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TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Using a dCS 904 to output DSD
Analogue source
CH2
CH1
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
CH1(L) CH2(R)
PUSH
Digital I/O
Figure 4 – DSD output configuration
do this: Set DSD in the menu to On.
do this: Most likely (check your other equipment) you will need word clock. Make
sure BNC O is set to CL64.
do this: Select your filter.
P3D units only:
do this: Set DSD to P3D or DSD4 instead of On as required
Using a Master Clock to Sync a dCS 904
CH1(L) CH2(R) Se nsitivity
Analogue
CH1
CH2
Analogue source
AES/EBU Outputs
PUSH PUSH
AES 1 AES 2 AES 3 AES 4
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AE S2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
CH1(L) CH2(R)
PUSH
Digital I/O
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12
Wordclock Outputs
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
External
Sync
In
Remote
Out
Single, Dual or
Quad AES
In
Remote
Out
In
Loop
Remote
Out
DSD
Out
MAINS FUS E 2A(T) ON OFF
Mains Fuse ( 2AT)
dCS 904
dCS 992
On Off
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
Figure 5 – Syncing a dCS 904 to a Master Clock
do this: Make sure A-SL (Autoslave) is On and DSD is set to Off
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Storing DSD on an 8 track 16/44.1 PCM Recorder
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
Analogue
CH1
CH2
Analogue source
PUSH PUSH
CH1(L) CH2(R)
Figure 6 – Storing 2 channel DSD on an 8 track 16 bit 44.1 kS/s PCM recorder
do this: Set DSD to On and DSD 4 to On
P3D units only:
do this: Set DSD to DSD 4, set AES O to On.
Six Channel PCM Set Up
Analogue source
CH2
CH1
MASTER
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
CH1(L) CH2(R)
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
Reference In Referenc e Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
In
Remote
Out
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
dCS 904
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
In
Remote
Out
To 8 channel
44.1kS/s
16 bit recorder
24/96 Dual AES
Channels 1 & 2
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
Analogue source
CH4
CH3
SLAVE
Analogue source
CH6
CH5
SLAVE
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
Reference In Referenc e Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
CH1(L) CH2(R)
CH1(L) CH2(R)
PUSH
Digital I/O
Reference In Referenc e Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
In
Remote
Out
In
Remote
Out
Figure 7 – Six channel set up without a Master Clock
The top dCS 904 needs to have its Ref In option set to Int. The middle one
should be set to Loop, and the bottom one should be set to Loop.t. The units
self align quite accurately (see “Sample Alignment” on page 37 onwards).
Alternatively, word clock may be used as the syncing method, with no special
set ups.
24/96 Dual AES
Channels 3 & 4
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
24/96 Dual AES
Channels 5 & 6
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
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Storing 6 channel DSD on a 24 track 16/44.1 PCM Recorder
MASTER
CH1
CH2
Analogue source
SLAVE
CH3
CH4
Analogue source
SLAVE
CH5
CH6
Analogue source
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
CH1(L) CH2(R) Sensitivity
PUSH PUSH
Analogue
CH1(L) CH2(R)
CH1(L) CH2(R)
CH1(L) CH2(R)
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
Reference In Reference Out AES1 AES2 AES3 AES4 CH1 CH2
PUSH
Digital I/O
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
SDIF-2/DSD
In Out
75R
Clk
In
Remote
Out
In
Remote
Out
In
Remote
Out
dCS 904
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
dCS 904
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
dCS 904
MAINS FUSE 2A(T) ON OFF
To 24 channel
44.1kS/s
16 bit recorder
Figure 8 – Six channel DSD recording on a 24 track 16/44.1 kS/s recorder
Make sure DSD 4 is turned on, from the menu. The top dCS 904 needs to have
its Ref In option set to Int. The middle one should be set to Loop, and the
bottom one should be set to Loop.t The units self align quite accurately (see
“Sample Alignment” on page 37 onwards). Alternatively, word clock may be
used as the syncing method, with no special set ups.
P3D option only:
do this: Set DSD to DSD 4, set AES O to On
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