Extron electronic MLA-VC10 User Manual

User’s Manual

www.extron.com

Extron Electronics, USA

1230 South Lewis Street
Anaheim, CA 92805
USA

714.491.1500
Fax [phone]

Extron Electronics, Europe

Beeldschermweg 6C
3821 AH Amersfoort
The Netherlands
+31.33.453.4040
Fax [phone]

© 2002 Extron Electronics. All rights reserved.

Extron Electronics, Asia

135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01
PM Industrial Building
Singapore 368363
+65.6383.4400
Fax [phone]

Extron Electronics, Japan

Daisan DMJ Building 6F
3-9-1 Kudan Minami
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074 Japan
+81.3.3511.7655
Fax [phone]

MLA-VC10

MediaLink Accessory

68-690-01 Rev. A

Printed in the USA

07 02

Precautions

Safety Instructions • English

This symbol is intended to alert the user of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature provided with the equipment.

This symbol is intended to alert the user of the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within
the product's enclosure that may present a risk of
electric shock.

Caution

Read Instructions • Read and understand all safety and operating

instructions before using the equipment.

Retain Instructions • The safety instructions should be kept for future

reference.

Follow Warnings • Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the

equipment or in the user information.

Avoid Attachments • Do not use tools or attachments that are not

recommended by the equipment manufacturer because they may be
hazardous.

Consignes de Sécurité • Français

Ce symbole sert à avertir l’utilisateur que la
documentation fournie avec le matériel contient des
instructions importantes concernant l’exploitation et
la maintenance (réparation).

Ce symbole sert à avertir l’utilisateur de la présence
dans le boîtier de l’appareil de tensions dangereuses
non isolées posant des risques d’électrocution.

Attention

Lire les instructions• Prendre connaissance de toutes les consignes de

sécurité et d’exploitation avant d’utiliser le matériel.

Conserver les instructions• Ranger les consignes de sécurité afin de

pouvoir les consulter à l’avenir.

Respecter les avertissements • Observer tous les avertissements et

consignes marqués sur le matériel ou présentés dans la documentation
utilisateur.

Eviter les pièces de fixation • Ne pas utiliser de pièces de fixation ni

d’outils non recommandés par le fabricant du matériel car cela
risquerait de poser certains dangers.

Sicherheitsanleitungen • Deutsch

Dieses Symbol soll dem Benutzer in der im
Lieferumfang enthaltenen Dokumentation besonders
wichtige Hinweise zur Bedienung und Wartung
(Instandhaltung) geben.

Dieses Symbol soll den Benutzer darauf aufmerksam
machen, daß im Inneren des Gehäuses dieses
Produktes gefährliche Spannungen, die nicht isoliert
sind und die einen elektrischen Schock verursachen
können, herrschen.

Achtung

Lesen der Anleitungen • Bevor Sie das Gerät zum ersten Mal verwenden,

sollten Sie alle Sicherheits-und Bedienungsanleitungen genau
durchlesen und verstehen.

Aufbewahren der Anleitungen • Die Hinweise zur elektrischen Sicherheit

des Produktes sollten Sie aufbewahren, damit Sie im Bedarfsfall darauf
zurückgreifen können.

Befolgen der Warnhinweise • Befolgen Sie alle Warnhinweise und

Anleitungen auf dem Gerät oder in der Benutzerdokumentation.

Keine Zusatzgeräte • Verwenden Sie keine Werkzeuge oder Zusatzgeräte,

die nicht ausdrücklich vom Hersteller empfohlen wurden, da diese eine
Gefahrenquelle darstellen können.

Instrucciones de seguridad • Español

Este símbolo se utiliza para advertir al usuario sobre
instrucciones importantes de operación y
mantenimiento (o cambio de partes) que se desean
destacar en el contenido de la documentación
suministrada con los equipos.

Este símbolo se utiliza para advertir al usuario sobre
la presencia de elementos con voltaje peligroso sin
protección aislante, que puedan encontrarse dentro
de la caja o alojamiento del producto, y que puedan
representar riesgo de electrocución.

Precaucion

Leer las instrucciones • Leer y analizar todas las instrucciones de

operación y seguridad, antes de usar el equipo.

Conservar las instrucciones • Conservar las instrucciones de seguridad

para futura consulta.

Obedecer las advertencias • Todas las advertencias e instrucciones

marcadas en el equipo o en la documentación del usuario, deben ser
obedecidas.

Evitar el uso de accesorios • No usar herramientas o accesorios que no

sean especificamente recomendados por el fabricante, ya que podrian
implicar riesgos.

Warning

Power sources • This equipment should be operated only from the power source

indicated on the product. This equipment is intended to be used with a main
power system with a grounded (neutral) conductor. The third (grounding) pin is
a safety feature, do not attempt to bypass or disable it.

Power disconnection • To remove power from the equipment safely, remove all

power cords from the rear of the equipment, or the desktop power module (if
detachable), or from the power source receptacle (wall plug).

Power cord protection • Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to

be stepped on or pinched by items placed upon or against them.

Servicing • Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. There are no user-

serviceable parts inside. To prevent the risk of shock, do not attempt to service
this equipment yourself because opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards.

Slots and openings • If the equipment has slots or holes in the enclosure, these are

provided to prevent overheating of sensitive components inside. These openings
must never be blocked by other objects.

Lithium battery • There is a danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

Replace it only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the
manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer's
instructions.

Avertissement

Alimentations• Ne faire fonctionner ce matériel qu’avec la source d’alimentation

indiquée sur l’appareil. Ce matériel doit être utilisé avec une alimentation
principale comportant un fil de terre (neutre). Le troisième contact (de mise à la
terre) constitue un dispositif de sécurité : n’essayez pas de la contourner ni de la
désactiver.

Déconnexion de l’alimentation• Pour mettre le matériel hors tension sans danger,

déconnectez tous les cordons d’alimentation de l’arrière de l’appareil ou du
module d’alimentation de bureau (s’il est amovible) ou encore de la prise secteur.

Protection du cordon d’alimentation • Acheminer les cordons d’alimentation de

manière à ce que personne ne risque de marcher dessus et à ce qu’ils ne soient
pas écrasés ou pincés par des objets.

Réparation-maintenance • Faire exécuter toutes les interventions de réparation-

maintenance par un technicien qualifié. Aucun des éléments internes ne peut être
réparé par l’utilisateur. Afin d’éviter tout danger d’électrocution, l’utilisateur ne
doit pas essayer de procéder lui-même à ces opérations car l’ouverture ou le
retrait des couvercles risquent de l’exposer à de hautes tensions et autres dangers.

Fentes et orifices • Si le boîtier de l’appareil comporte des fentes ou des orifices,

ceux-ci servent à empêcher les composants internes sensibles de surchauffer. Ces
ouvertures ne doivent jamais être bloquées par des objets.

Lithium Batterie • Il a danger d'explosion s'll y a remplacment incorrect de la

batterie. Remplacer uniquement avec une batterie du meme type ou d'un ype
equivalent recommande par le constructeur. Mettre au reut les batteries usagees
conformement aux instructions du fabricant.

Vorsicht

Stromquellen • Dieses Gerät sollte nur über die auf dem Produkt angegebene

Stromquelle betrieben werden. Dieses Gerät wurde für eine Verwendung mit
einer Hauptstromleitung mit einem geerdeten (neutralen) Leiter konzipiert. Der
dritte Kontakt ist für einen Erdanschluß, und stellt eine Sicherheitsfunktion dar.
Diese sollte nicht umgangen oder außer Betrieb gesetzt werden.

Stromunterbrechung • Um das Gerät auf sichere Weise vom Netz zu trennen,

sollten Sie alle Netzkabel aus der Rückseite des Gerätes, aus der externen
Stomversorgung (falls dies möglich ist) oder aus der Wandsteckdose ziehen.

Schutz des Netzkabels • Netzkabel sollten stets so verlegt werden, daß sie nicht

im Weg liegen und niemand darauf treten kann oder Objekte darauf- oder
unmittelbar dagegengestellt werden können.

Wartung • Alle Wartungsmaßnahmen sollten nur von qualifiziertem

Servicepersonal durchgeführt werden. Die internen Komponenten des Gerätes
sind wartungsfrei. Zur Vermeidung eines elektrischen Schocks versuchen Sie in
keinem Fall, dieses Gerät selbst öffnen, da beim Entfernen der Abdeckungen die
Gefahr eines elektrischen Schlags und/oder andere Gefahren bestehen.

Schlitze und Öffnungen • Wenn das Gerät Schlitze oder Löcher im Gehäuse

aufweist, dienen diese zur Vermeidung einer Überhitzung der empfindlichen
Teile im Inneren. Diese Öffnungen dürfen niemals von anderen Objekten
blockiert werden.

Litium-Batterie • Explosionsgefahr, falls die Batterie nicht richtig ersetzt wird.

Ersetzen Sie verbrauchte Batterien nur durch den gleichen oder einen
vergleichbaren Batterietyp, der auch vom Hersteller empfohlen wird. Entsorgen
Sie verbrauchte Batterien bitte gemäß den Herstelleranweisungen.

Advertencia

Alimentación eléctrica • Este equipo debe conectarse únicamente a la fuente/tipo

de alimentación eléctrica indicada en el mismo. La alimentación eléctrica de este
equipo debe provenir de un sistema de distribución general con conductor
neutro a tierra. La tercera pata (puesta a tierra) es una medida de seguridad, no
puentearia ni eliminaria.

Desconexión de alimentación eléctrica • Para desconectar con seguridad la

acometida de alimentación eléctrica al equipo, desenchufar todos los cables de
alimentación en el panel trasero del equipo, o desenchufar el módulo de
alimentación (si fuera independiente), o desenchufar el cable del receptáculo de
la pared.

Protección del cables de alimentación • Los cables de alimentación eléctrica se

deben instalar en lugares donde no sean pisados ni apretados por objetos que se
puedan apoyar sobre ellos.

Reparaciones/mantenimiento • Solicitar siempre los servicios técnicos de personal

calificado. En el interior no hay partes a las que el usuario deba acceder. Para
evitar riesgo de electrocución, no intentar personalmente la reparación/
mantenimiento de este equipo, ya que al abrir o extraer las tapas puede quedar
expuesto a voltajes peligrosos u otros riesgos.

Ranuras y aberturas • Si el equipo posee ranuras o orificios en su caja/alojamiento,

es para evitar el sobrecalientamiento de componentes internos sensibles. Estas
aberturas nunca se deben obstruir con otros objetos.

Batería de litio • Existe riesgo de explosión si esta batería se coloca en la posición

incorrecta. Cambiar esta batería únicamente con el mismo tipo (o su equivalente)
recomendado por el fabricante. Desachar las baterías usadas siguiendo las
instrucciones del fabricante.

FCC Class A Notice

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

Note: This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded
cables must be used with the unit to ensure compliance.

Extron’s Warranty

Extron Electronics warrants this product against defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase. In the event of
malfunction during the warranty period attributable directly to faulty workmanship
and/or materials, Extron Electronics will, at its option, repair or replace said products
or components, to whatever extent it shall deem necessary to restore said product to
proper operating condition, provided that it is returned within the warranty period,
with proof of purchase and description of malfunction to:

USA, Canada, South America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East:
and Central America:

Extron Electronics Beeldschermweg 6C
1230 South Lewis Street 3821 AH Amersfoort
Anaheim, CA 92805, USA The Netherlands

Asia: Japan:

Extron Electronics, Asia Daisan DMJ Bldg. 6F,
135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01 3-9-1 Kudan Minami
PM Industrial Bldg. Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074
Singapore 368363 Japan

This Limited Warranty does not apply if the fault has been caused by misuse,
improper handling care, electrical or mechanical abuse, abnormal operating conditions
or non-Extron authorized modification to the product.

If it has been determined that the product is defective, please call Extron and ask for
an Applications Engineer at [phone] (USA), 31.33.453.4040 (Europe),

65.6383.4400 (Asia), or 81.3.3511.7655 (Japan) to receive an RA# (Return Authorization
number). This will begin the repair process as quickly as possible.

Units must be returned insured, with shipping charges prepaid. If not insured, you
assume the risk of loss or damage during shipment. Returned units must include the
serial number and a description of the problem, as well as the name of the person to
contact in case there are any questions.

Extron Electronics makes no further warranties either expressed or implied with
respect to the product and its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any
particular use. In no event will Extron Electronics be liable for direct, indirect, or
consequential damages resulting from any defect in this product even if Extron
Electronics has been advised of such damage.

Please note that laws vary from state to state and country to country, and that some
provisions of this warranty may not apply to you.

Extron Electronics, Europe

Extron Electronics, Japan

Quick Start Guide — MLA-VC10

Setting Up the MLA-VC10

To install and set up the MLA-VC10, follow these steps and see the
appropriate section of this manual for details:

Step 1

Determine the control voltage required
by the amplifier or mixer.
See “Determining the Control Voltage”
on pages 2-3 to 2-6 of this manual.

Step 2

Set the MLA-VC10’s DIP switches to match
the voltage determined in 1. See “Setting the
Configuration DIP Switches” on page 2-7, and
the reference tables on pages 2-8 and 2-9.

ON

1

CONFIGURATION

(Example)

5

6

2

7

3

8

4

CONFIGURATION

1

2

3

ON

5

4

UP

6

7

8

CONFIGURATION

1

5

2

6

3

7

4

8

DOWN

0 to 10.0VDC 0 to 4.98VDC NOT HALFWAY

Step 3

Turn all of the equipment off. Make sure that the MediaLink
Controller (MLC) (if used), the MLA-VC10, the audio amplifier or
mixer, and RS-232 host device are turned off and disconnected from
the power source.

Step 4

Terminate cables and use them to connect the MLA-VC10 to the
MLC and/or a power supply and to an amplifier or mixer. See
“Cabling” on pages 2-9 to 2-11. Tie all grounds together.

8

7

*

MLA-VC10
Rear Panel

The actual maximum control voltage

*

depends on the Configuration DIP switch
settings, but the maximum power output will
not be reached if the amplifier's control port
voltage measures more than 10VDC.

6 feet (1.8 m) maximum
between the MLA-VC10

and the amplifier

REMT

VOL

MUTE

1

MUTE

2

GND

Amplifier
Rear Panel

AMP/MIXER

CONTROL

CTRL

CONFIGURATION

ON

1

2

345

0VDC to +10VDC

Ground ( )

6

MLA-VC10 • Quick Start Guide

QS-1

Quick Start Guide — MLA-VC10, cont’d

Table of Contents

MLA-VC10

POWER/
STATUS

MLA-VC10
Front Panel

MLC/RS-232

POWER

A B

ABCDE ABC

IR

RS-232

Display/Source Control

Ground ( )

B
A

DE ABC ABD

White or

white-striped

+12VDC

Ground ( )

+12VDC

Receive (Rx)
Transmit (Tx)

1A 1B 2A 2B 3A 3B

Relays IR/ RCM

NOTE

The external power supply
provides power to both the
MLA-VC10 and the MLC.

wire

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Transmit (Tx)
Receive (Rx)

Ground all devices

B
A

123456

Tally Out

MLS

Extron Switcher Control

/Power

33-644-01 A

07 01

Printed in the

USA

MLC 206
Bottom Panel

NOTE

If you use cable
that has a drain
wire, tie the drain
wire to ground at
both ends.

To connect a
computer or
third party
control system,
see page 2-9.

Step 5

Connect the power cables to a power source and power on the
equipment (MLC/power supply, RS-232 host device, and amplifier

or mixer).

Step 6

If you are using an MLC with the MLA-VC10, use the

Controller (MLC) Config portion of the
MediaLink control software (included with the
MLC) to set the MLC’s volume control to
“Switcher” instead of “Projector”. Refer to the
MediaLink Controllers User’s Manual for details.

An external
power supply
(12VDC,
1A max.)

Chapter 1 • Introduction .......................................................... 1-1

About the MLA-VC10 ........................................................... 1-2

Chapter 2 • Installation and Setup ................................... 2-1

Front and Rear Panel Features ....................................... 2-2

Determining the Control Voltage ................................. 2-3

Measuring voltage for a TOA A-903MK2 amplifier ............ 2-4

Measuring voltage for a Peavey UMA™ 35T II amplifier ..... 2-5

Measuring voltage for a

Biamp Precedence CMA 60 amplifier ................................... 2-6

Setting the Configuration DIP Switches ...................2-7

Cabling ........................................................................................2-9

Wiring the MLC/Power connector ...................................... 2-10

Wiring the Amp/Mixer Control connector ......................... 2-11

Operation ................................................................................. 2-12

RS-232 control ...................................................................... 2-12

Command/response table for SIS commands..................... 2-14

Troubleshooting ................................................................... 2-15

Appendix A • Specifications, Part Numbers,

and Accessories.............................................................................. A-1

Specifications ......................................................................... A-2

Included Parts......................................................................... A-2

Cables ......................................................................................... A-2

MLA-VC10 Functional Block Diagram ........................ A-3

All trademarks mentioned in this manual are the properties of their respective owners.

Step 7

Test the system by turning the volume knob on the MLC or by
sending a volume-related RS-232 command while listening for a
change in the volume level and observing the MLA-VC10’s LED
(which should blink).

68-690-01 Rev. A

Printed in the USA

07 02

Step 8

If wiring changes are needed, turn off the power and unplug the
equipment, make any necessary wiring changes, then restore power
to the system.

In some applications the amplifier’s front panel volume control
knob may be disabled when the MLA is attached to the
amplifier’s control port.

QS-2 i

MLA-VC10 • Quick Start Guide

MLA-VC10 • Table of Contents

Table of Contents, cont’d

MLA-VC10

Chapter One

1

Introduction

About the MLA-VC10

ii

MLA-VC10 • Table of Contents

Introduction

About the MLA-VC10 (part #60-502-01)

Along with an RS-232 host device, the Extron MediaLink™
Accessory Volume Control 10 (MLA-VC10) can be used to
remotely control the volume output of an audio mixer or
amplifier that has a 0VDC to 10VDC variable voltage remote
control port for volume control.

The MLA-VC10 can be installed with an Extron MediaLink
Controller (MLC) and the MLC’s 12VDC power supply, or
the MLA-VC10 can be installed with an external 12VDC power
supply and a third party RS-232 control device.

Refer to the appropriate controller’s, amplifier’s, or mixer’s
user’s manual for information on how to wire control
connections.

The MLA-VC10 provides a control voltage (supply
voltage) of between 0VDC and 10VDC. The
MLA-VC10 can control amplifiers that use a higher
control voltage. However, if the MLA-VC10 is used
with devices that use a control port voltage above
10VDC, the maximum volume will not be reached.

The illustration below shows a typical application.

AUX VIDEO

DVD

AMX PC

VCR

Laptop

Laptop

LAY

SP

DI

WER

Extron

MLC 206

12VDC

PO

E

LUM

VO

MAX/

MIN

6

20

C
L
M

PC

MediaLink Controller

CONFIGURATION

ON

3

2

1

AMP/MIXER

CONTROL

CTRL

MLA-VC10

RS-232

POWER/
STATUS

MLC/RS-232

POWER

A B

MLA-VC10

7

6

5

4

Control
Voltage

MLA-VC10

Chapter Two

2

Installation and Setup

8

Front and Rear Panel Features

Determining the Control Voltage

Setting the Configuration DIP Switches

1-2

12VDC
Power Supply

MLA-VC10 • Introduction

VCR

DVD

Amplifier

Speakers

Cabling

Operation

Troubleshooting

Installation

R

Front and Rear Panel Features

Front

MLC/RS-232

POWER

POWER/
STATUS

Power/Status indicator LED — This LED lights steadily while

1

A B

the MLA-VC10 receives power, and it blinks three times when
the MLA-VC10 receives valid RS-232 volume setting
commands.

MLC/RS-232 Power connector — This 5-pole, 3.5 mm captive

2

screw port is for RS-232 transmit and receive signal connections
and for power and ground connections. Connect cables to this
port for

• a MediaLink Controller (MLC) and the MLC’s 12VDC
power supply, or

• an external 12VDC power supply and a third party RS-232
control device.

MLA-VC10

21

Determining the Control Voltage

The MLA-VC10 drives the amplifier’s or mixer’s remote control
port. Each model or line of amplifier or mixer may require a
different voltage for controlling the audio volume. You need to
know the specific voltage your equipment requires before you
can set up the MLA-VC10 to control it.

Sometimes the equipment’s manual lists the required voltage,
but usually you will have to use a voltmeter to test the voltage
yourself. This section shows examples of how to measure the
control voltage for three widely used amplifiers.

Many models of amplifiers have one of two basic
configurations:

• two-terminal (signal and ground)

• three-terminal (signal, ground, and control)

The MLA-VC10 will work with a wide range of
amplifiers. Those models shown in this section are
included as examples only. The MLA-VC10 is not
limited to being used with just the amplifier-mixers
shown in this manual.

ear

AMP/MIXER

CONTROL

CTRL

Amp/Mixer Control connector — Connect a cable between the

3

amplifier’s or mixer‘s remote control port and this 3.5 mm, 2­pole captive screw connector, which provides a ground and
control voltage for controlling the audio volume.

Configuration DIP switches — Set these eight switches to

4

configure the MLA-VC10 for the control voltage required by the
amplifier or mixer. See “Setting the Configuration DIP
Switches“ on page 2-7.

2-2

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Operation

CONFIGURATION

ON

1

2

345

43

8

7

6

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Operation

2-3

Installation and Setup, cont’d

Measuring voltage for a TOA A-903MK2 amplifier

Control terminals for several TOA amplifiers are two screw
terminals labeled “REMT VOL”. They do not indicate which
terminal is for control voltage and which is for the ground. Use
a voltmeter (set to VDC) to measure the voltage as shown here.

In the picture below the measured voltage is positive, so the
upper terminal is the signal voltage terminal, and the lower
terminal is for the ground connection.

When measuring
voltage, if the
reading is positive,
the positive probe
indicates the signal
voltage terminal,
and the ground
probe indicates the
ground connection.
If the voltage is
negative, reverse
the probes.

Write down the measured
voltage for your reference
when you set the DIP
switches, and note which
terminal is for the ground.

Measuring voltage for a Peavey UMA™ 35T II amplifier

Control terminals for Peavey amps also usually consist of two
screw terminals, in this example labeled “Remote Vol”. Use a
voltmeter (set to VDC) to measure the voltage as shown below.

If you get
a negative
voltage
reading
on the
meter, the
meter’s
leads are
touching
the wrong
terminals.

Measuring control voltage for a Peavey UMA™ 35T
II: meter leads are oriented incorrectly relative to
the amp’s terminals

In the picture below the measured voltage is positive, so the
right (#1) terminal is the signal terminal, and the left (#2)
terminal is for the ground connection.

2-4

Measuring control voltage for a TOA A-903MK2 amp

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

Measuring control voltage for a Peavey UMA™ 35T
II: meter leads are oriented correctly

Write down the measured voltage for your reference when you
set the DIP switches, and note which terminal is for the ground.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-5

Installation and Setup, cont’d

Measuring voltage for a
Biamp Precedence CMA 60 amplifier

Several Biamp amplifiers have three screw terminals labeled
“remote level”. The control voltage may be indicated (by a “C”
in the following picture) on the
panel over the corresponding
screw terminal, and the ground
terminal is indicated with a .

Even if the voltage is indicated,
use a voltmeter (set to VDC) to measure the voltage as shown in
the picture below. Write down the measured voltage for your
reference when you set the DIP switches.

Setting the Configuration DIP Switches

Set the Configuration DIP switches to the setting corresponding
to the control voltage required by the amplifier or mixer.
See “Determining the Control Voltage” in this chapter. The
table on the following two pages lists all the voltage levels that
can be selected. Be sure to set each
switch all the way up or all the way
down, and do not leave it partway
between the two positions.

CONFIGURATION

1

5

2

3

ON

4

UP

6

7

8

0 to 10.0VDC 0 to 4.98VDC NOT HALFWAY

CONFIGURATION

1

2

3

4

ON

1

5

6

7

8

DOWN

CONFIGURATION

5

6

2

7

3

8

4

Measuring voltage for a Biamp Precedence CMA 60

For three-terminal amps, always connect the MLA­VC10 to the control voltage terminal and ground
terminal of the amp’s control port. Leave the other
terminal (+10V in this example) open (not connected).

The MLA-VC10 provides a control voltage (supply
voltage) of between 0VDC and 10VDC. The
MLA-VC10 can control amplifiers that use a higher
control voltage. However, if the MLA-VC10 is used
with devices that use a control port voltage above
10VDC, the maximum volume will not be reached.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-72-6

Installation and Setup, cont’d

MLA-VC10 DIP Switch Settings for Approximate

Amplifier/Mixer Measured Control Voltages

Voltage

10.00

9.96

9.92

9.88

9.84

9.80

9.76

9.73

9.69

9.65

9.61

9.57

9.53

9.49

9.45

9.41

9.37

9.33

9.29

9.25

9.22

9.18

9.14

9.10

9.06

9.02

8.98

8.94

8.90

8.86

8.82

8.78

8.75

8.71

8.67

8.63

8.59

8.55

8.51

8.47

8.43

8.39

8.35

8.31

8.27

8.24

8.20

8.16

8.12

8.08 6.12

2-8

Closed = up,

Open = down,

1234567

12345678 12345678

12345678

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

Voltage

8

Closed = up,

Open = down,

1234567

8.04

8.00

7.96

7.92

7.88

7.84

7.80

7.76

7.73

7.69

7.65

7.61

7.57

7.53

7.49

7.45

7.41

7.37

7.33

7.29

7.25

7.22

7.18

7.14

7.10

7.06

7.02

6.98

6.94

6.90

6.86

6.82

6.78

6.75

6.71

12345678

6.67

6.63

6.59

6.55

6.51

6.47

6.43

6.39

6.35

6.31

6.27

6.24

6.20

6.16

Voltage

8

Closed = up,

Open = down,

1234567

6.08

6.04

6.00

5.96

5.92

5.88

5.84

5.80

5.76

5.73

5.69

5.65

5.61

5.57

5.53

12345678

5.49

5.45

5.41

5.37

5.33

5.29

5.25

5.22

5.18

5.14

5.10

5.06

5.02

4.98

4.94

4.90

4.86

4.82

4.78

4.75

12345678

4.71

4.67

4.63

4.59

4.55

4.51

4.47

4.43

4.39

4.35

4.31

4.27

4.24

4.20

4.16

MLA-VC10 DIP Switch Settings for Approximate

Amplifier/Mixer Measured Control Voltages (cont'd)

Voltage

8

Closed = up, , on

1234567

4.12

4.08

4.04

4.00

3.96

3.92

3.88

3.84

3.80

3.76

3.73

3.69

3.65

3.61

3.57

Open = down,

Voltage

8

2.55

2.51

2.47

2.43

2.39

2.35

2.31

2.27

2.24

2.20

2.16

2.12

2.08

2.04

2.00

12345678 12345678

3.53

3.49

3.45

3.41

3.37

3.33

3.29

3.25

3.22

3.18

3.14

3.10

3.06

3.02

2.98

2.94

2.90

2.86

2.82

2.78

1.96

1.92

1.88

1.84

1.80

1.76

1.73

1.69

1.65

1.61

1.57

1.53

1.49

1.45

1.41

1.37

1.33

1.29

1.25

1.22

12345678

2.75

2.71

2.67

2.63

2.59

1.17

1.14

1.10

1.06

1.02

Closed = up,

Open = down,

1234567

8

12345678

Voltage

0.98

0.94

0.90

0.86

0.82

0.78

0.75

0.71

0.67

0.63

0.59

0.55

0.51

0.47

0.43

0.39

0.35

0.31

0.27

0.24

0.20

0.16

0.12

0.08

0.04

0.00

Closed = up,

Open = down,

12345678

12345678

Cabling

To avoid introducing noise and static into audio
channels, the MediaLink Controller (if used), the power
supply, the MLA-VC10, and the amplifier or mixer
should share the same grounding source.

Power and communications cables should be at least
18 AWG.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-9

Installation and Setup, cont’d

Wiring the MLC/Power connector

The 12VDC, 1 amp power supply kit (part #70-055-01)
is not included with the MLA-VC10.

MLC/RS-232

POWER

AB

MLA-VC10's
front panel
MLC/RS-232
Power port

White or
white-striped
wire

+12VDC

Ground ( )

An external
power supply

B
A

AB

MLS / Power

(12VDC, 1A max.)

Ground all devices

+12VDC

Ground ( )

B

Receive (Rx)

A

Transmit (Tx)

NOTE If you use cable that has a

drain wire, tie the drain wire
to ground at both ends.

NOTE

Use the MediaLink control software to set the MLC’s volume control to “Switcher”

instead of “Projector”. Refer to the MediaLink Controllers User’s Manual.

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Transmit (Tx)
Receive (Rx)

Connecting an MLA-VC10 to an MLC 206

NOTE

MLC 206's
MLS/Power
port

POWER/
STATUS

MLA-VC10

Front Panel

12VDC

Power Supply

ABCDEABC

DE ABC ABD

1A1B 2A2B 3A3B

Relays IR/RCM

123456

Tally Out

Extron Switcher Control

IR

RS-232

Display/Source Control

MLC 206 Bottom Panel

The external power
supply provides power
to both the MLA-VC10
and the MLC.

MLC/POWER

A B

MLC/RS-232

POWER

AB

MLA-VC10

MLA-VC10
front panel
MLC/RS-232
Power port

+12VDC input

Ground ( )

White or
white-striped
wire

Ground all devices

An external
power supply
(12VDC, 1A max.)

Connecting an MLA-VC10
to an external power supply

33-644-01 A

07 01

Printed in the

USA

MLS

/Power

To avoid introducing noise and static into the audio
channels, the MediaLink Controller (if used), the power
supply, the MLA-VC10, and the amplifier or mixer
should all share the same grounding source.

The 12VDC, 1 amp power supply kit (part #70-055-01)
is not included with the MLA-VC10.

Wiring the Amp/Mixer Control connector

The illustration below shows how to wire the 3.5 mm, 2-pole
captive screw connector for controlling the amplifier or mixer.

AMP/MIXER

CONTROL

MLC/RS-232

POWER

AB

MLA-VC10's
front panel
MLC/RS-232
Power port

White or
white-striped
wire

+12VDC

Ground ( )

An external
power supply

Ground all devices

Ground ( ) Ground ( )

B

Receive (Rx)

A

Transmit (Tx)

NOTE If you use cable that has a

drain wire, tie the drain wire
to ground at both ends.

Transmit (Tx)
Receive (Rx)

(12VDC, 1A max.)

B
A

Rx Tx Gnd

Computer or

Third Party Control's

RS-232 Port

Connecting an MLA-VC10
to a Computer or Third Party Control's RS-232 Port

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

Front Panel

12VDC

Power Supply

POWER/
STATUS

MLA-VC10

MLA-VC10

MLC/POWER

A B

Computer or

Third Party

Control's

RS-232 Port

CTRL

The actual maximum control voltage depends on the

*

Configuration DIP switch settings, but the maximum
power output will not be reached if the amplifier's
control port voltage measures more than 10VDC.

0VDC to +10VDC

Ground ( )

*

To Amplifier

6 feet (1.8 m) maximum
between the MLA-VC10

and the amplifier

Wiring the MLA’s Amp/Mixer Control connector

In some applications the amplifier’s front panel volume
control knob may be disabled when the MLA is attached
to the amplifier’s control port.

See the illustration on page 2-9 for power wiring instructions.
The Configuration DIP switches must also be set to select the
outgoing voltage. See pages 2-7 to 2-9.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-112-10

Installation and Setup, cont’d

ASCII to HEX Conversion Table

•

Operation

To control audio volume when using an MLA-VC10, turn a
connected MediaLink Controller’s Volume knob, or send
commands via an RS-232 remote control device such as a
computer or third party control system.

RS-232 control

The RS-232 protocol for the MLA-VC10 is 9600 baud, 1 stop bit,
no parity, and no flow control.

The control device (host) can use Extron’s Simple Instruction Set
(SIS) commands.

The MLA’s MLC/Power 5-pole captive screw connector has the
following pin assignments:
A = transmit, B = receive, C = not used,

= ground, + = +12VDC input

If you are using an MLC with the
MLA-VC10, use the
Controller (MLC) Config portion of
the MediaLink control software
(included with the MLC) to set the

MLC’s volume control to
“Switcher” instead of “Projector” .

Refer to the MediaLink Controllers
User’s Manual for details.

Error response

When the MLA receives a valid SIS command, it executes the
command and sends a response to the host device. If the MLA
is unable to execute the command because the command
contains invalid parameters, it returns the following error
response to the host:

E13 – Invalid value (the number is out of range/too large)

Using the command/response table

The command/response table lists valid command ASCII codes,
the MLA’s responses to the host, and a description of the
command’s function or the results of executing the command.
Lower case characters are acceptable in the command field
unless otherwise indicated. The following ASCII to HEX
conversion table is for use with the command/response table.

Host-to-MLA communications

SIS commands consist of one or more characters per field. No
special characters are required to begin or end a command
sequence. When a command is valid, the interface executes the
command and sends a response to the host device. All respon­ses from the interface to the host end with a carriage return and
a line feed (CR/LF =
character string. A string is one or more characters.

MLA-initiated messages

When the MLA is powered up, it sends the following message
(underlined here) to the host:
(C) Copyright 2002, Extron Electronics, MLA-VC10

No response is required from the host. The MLA may also send
a message of Volxxx where xxx represents the setting for the
percentage of maximum volume.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

), which signals the end of the response

Symbol definitions

= CR/LF (carriage return/line feed) (hex 0D 0A)

• = Space

X1

= Volume adjustment range (0 through 100%)
= On/off status

X2

= Controller firmware version (listed to

X3

0 = off/disable
1 = on/enable

two decimal places e.g.: x.xx)

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-132-12

Installation and Setup, cont’d

audio volume output.

Example: set volume to 82% of

Specify the % of maximum

X1

V Vol

X1

(host to MLC) (MLC to host)

maximum.

Increment audio volume.

X1

level.

Decrement audio volume.

Show the % of maximum audio

X1

X1

Unmute all audio outputs.

Show the status of audio mute.

X2

Show the MLA’s part #.

Show the firmware version.

X3

Troubleshooting

If the MLA-VC10’s LED doesn’t light:

• The MLA-VC10 is not receiving power. Check the wiring at
the MLA-VC10’s MLC/Power port for correct polarity.
Verify that the power supply has been connected to a
functional power outlet.

If the MLA-VC10’s LED doesn’t blink when volume
commands are sent:

• The volume command is out of the acceptable range (0 to 100
steps).

• The MLA-VC10 is not receiving RS-232 commands correctly.

If there is no audio output

• Check the wiring at the amplifier/mixer to make sure the
MLA-VC10 is connected to the correct terminals. Verify
that the amplifier/mixer and speakers have been
powered on.

If the output is noisy or has lots of static:

• The amplifier/mixer and MLA-VC10 are installed near
electromagnetic interference sources such as appliances

and large motors. Move the amp/mixer and the
MLA-VC10 away from the interference source.

• The voltage control cable is too long, allowing noise to be
picked up from many sources. Use a shorter cable (6 feet,
max.) between the MLA-VC10 and the amplifier or mixer.

• The ground line may be noisy. Use a different, “clean”
grounding source.

(increase audio output) +V Vol

Example: 82V Vol082

Command/response table for SIS commands

Command ASCII Command Response Additional description

2-14

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

Set the output volume

Volume adjustment

Increment

Decrement -V Vol

View the volume level V Vol

Mute on 1Z Amt1 Mute all audio outputs.

Mute off 0Z Amt0

Audio mute (overall)

View the audio mute status. Z Amt

Query firmware version number Q Ver

Request part number N N60-502-01

Firmware version, part number & information requests

If the volume doesn’t change when you change the
volume setting via the MLC or via RS-232 commands:

• The wiring at the amplifier/mixer terminals is reversed.
Switch the leads for the ground and the control volume.

• The DIP switches are set for too high of an output voltage. If
this is the case, the amplifier/mixer will output the
maximum audio level all the time and will not change.
Retest the amplifier/mixer’s control voltage and reset the
DIP switches to match the required voltage.

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

2-15

Installation and Setup, cont’d

• The amplifier accepts a higher control voltage than the
MLA-VC10 provides, so the amplifier will not reach its
highest volume level. Try another amplifier with a lower
control voltage requirement.

If audio output does not reach the amplifier’s maximum
volume

• If you use an MLA-VC10 with an amplifier/mixer that has a
control voltage requirement above 10VDC, the maximum
volume may not be reached.

If volume changes lead to erratic variation in output
volumes

• Verify that each DIP switch is set either all the way up or all
the way down, not partway between up and down
positions.

CONFIGURATION

1

5

2

3

ON

4

0 to 10.0VDC 0 to 4.98VDC NOT HALFWAY

Leaving a DIP switch in the middle can cause
unpredictable changes in volume: the switch
intermittently varies between on and off settings, yielding
control voltages from two different ranges: one range
that’s appropriate for your equipment, and one that isn’t.

UP

6

7

8

CONFIGURATION

1

5

2

6

3

7

4

8

DOWN

MLA-VC10

Appendix A

A

Specifications, Part Numbers,

2-16

If the audio output can still be heard when the MLA-VC10
has a volume setting of 0VDC

• Check the gain and level settings on the amplifier or mixer.
Adjust the gain so that you don’t hear any audio output
when the MLA-VC10 is set for 0VDC output (minimum
volume).

MLA-VC10 • Installation and Setup

and Accessories

Specifications

Included Parts

Cables

MLA-VC10 Functional Block Diagram

Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Specifications

Control — amplifier

Maximum voltage output .......... 10VDC ± 5%

General

Power............................................. 12VDC from a 1 A external power supply

Temperature/humidity .............. Storage -40° to +158°F (-40° to +70°C) /

10% to 90%, non-condensing
Operating +32° to +122°F (0° to +50°C) /

10% to 90%, non-condensing

Rack mount................................... No

Enclosure type.............................. Plastic

Enclosure dimensions ................. 1.0" H x 2.4" W x 2.3" D

2.5 cm H x 6.1 cm W x 5.8 cm D

Product weight............................. 0.2 lbs (0.1 kg)

Shipping weight ........................... 1 lb (0.5 kg)

Vibration ....................................... ISTA/NSTA 1A in carton

(International Safe Transit Association)

Listings .......................................... UL, CUL

Compliances ................................. CE, FCC Class A, VCCI, AS/NZS, ICES

MTBF ............................................. 30,000 hours

Warranty ....................................... 3 years parts and labor

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

MLA-VC10 Functional Block Diagram

Voltage

Control

Amp/Mixer

+V

High Z

Low Z

Protection

Relay

Power Up Amp

Included Parts

These items are included in each order for an MLA-VC10:

Included parts Part number

MLA-VC10 60-502-01

3.8 mm, 2-pole captive screw connector 10-319-15

3.5 mm, 5-pole captive screw connector 10-319-10
MLA-VC10 user’s manual 68-690-01

Cables

Plenum Comm-link cable Part number

50 feet, 100 feet, 200 feet 26-461-01, -02, -03
300 feet, 400 feet 26-461-05, -04

A-2

MLA-VC10 • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Microcontroller

MLA-VC10

RS-232/MLC Control

Pot.

Digital

Pot.

Digital

DC Voltage Controller

DIP Sw.

Sets Max Voltage

- Amp/Mixer must support remote volume capabilities.

Tx Rx Gnd+12V

MLA-VC10 • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

- Output impedance of MLA-VC10 is lower than the input impedance of the Amp/ Mixer.

- DIP switches set maximum control voltage (10VDC max.).

- Relay shorts to ground when power is removed and for 5 seconds after power up.

A-3

Specifications, Part Numbers, Accessories, cont’d

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A-4 A-5

MLA-VC10 • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

MLA-VC10 • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Specifications, Part Numbers, Accessories, cont’d

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A-6

MLA-VC10 • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories