Falcon FM, ST User Manual

Falcon 15

FM & ST

Broadcast Digital Audio Processor

Operating manual

Rel. 1.7

Sede BOLOGNA: Via Caduti Di Sabbiuno 6/F –

40011 Anzola Emilia - Bologna - Italy

Tel. [phone] - Fax. [phone]

Sede BERGAMO: Via Italia 1 –

24030 Medolago (Bg) – Italy

e-mail: [e-mail]

- web site: www.axeltechnology.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS...............................................................................................................................................3

2 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................................6

2.1 FALCON 15 - AVAILABLE VERSIONS....................................................................................................................7

3 SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA.................................................................................8

3.1 FOREWORD...........................................................................................................................................................8

4 SAFETY WARNINGS...................................................................................................................................................9

5 CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES......................................................................................................10

6 ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA..............................................................................................11

7 WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE..................................................................................................................12

8 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD.........................................................................................13

9 FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................................................14

9.1 POWER SUPPLY CABLE .....................................................................................................................................14

9.2 AC MAINS VOLTAGE SETTING (230 V / 115 V) ...................................................................................................14

9.3 FUSE REPLACEMENT.........................................................................................................................................15

9.4 PROTECTION AGAINST LIGHTNING..................................................................................................................15

9.5 VENTILATION.......................................................................................................................................................15

10 BLOCK DIAGRAM (FM & ST VERSIONS)...........................................................................................................16

11 FM VERSION DESCRIPTION..................................................................................................................................17

11.1 FRONT PANEL VIEW ...........................................................................................................................................17

11.2 REAR PANEL VIEW (FM VERSION).....................................................................................................................18

11.3 AC CONNECTION ................................................................................................................................................19

11.4 OUTPUT CONNECTOR........................................................................................................................................19

11.5 SYNC-IN AND SYNC-OUT CONNECTORS..........................................................................................................19

11.6 AUXILIARY INPUTS..............................................................................................................................................20

11.7 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT (FEMALE XLR).................................................................................................................20

11.8 DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT.........................................................................................................................................21

11.9 SERIAL PORTS ....................................................................................................................................................21

11.10 DIGITAL DATA PORT ...........................................................................................................................................22

11.11 THE MENU TREE..................................................................................................................................................24

11.12 FRONT PANEL OPERATION................................................................................................................................25

12 IN & OUT SETTINGS (FM VERSION)....................................................................................................................26

12.1 HOW TO CONFIGURE THE INPUT (INPUT SETUP)............................................................................................26

12.1.1 SELECTING THE INPUT (ANALOG OR DIGITAL)..................................................................................26

12.1.2 ADJUSTING THE INPUT AUDIO LEVEL.................................................................................................26

12.1.3 CHOOSING THE PROPER AGC OPERATION.........................................................................................27

12.2 THE VOICE OPTIMIZER.......................................................................................................................................28

12.3 HOW TO CONFIGURE THE MPX OUTPUT (MPX MODULE SETUP) ..................................................................29

12.3.1 SETTING THE PREEMPHASIS .................................................................................................................29

12.3.2 MONO - STEREO OPERATION.................................................................................................................29

12.3.3 ADJUSTING THE MPX OUTPUT LEVEL.................................................................................................29

12.3.4 CALIBRATING THE PILOT LEVEL AND PHASE.....................................................................................30

12.3.5 ENABLING SYNC OUTPUT.......................................................................................................................30

12.3.6 NOISE GATE SETTING (Noise Gate) ........................................................................................................31

12.3.7 BYPASS MODE...........................................................................................................................................31

12.4 ADJUSTING THE RDS / RBDS OUTPUT (RDS MODULE SETUP).......................................................................32

Page 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG

12.5 SETTING THE SPLIT MODES..............................................................................................................................33

12.6 ADDITIONAL DATA AND SETTINGS....................................................................................................................34

12.6.1 SERIAL PORT SETUP................................................................................................................................34

12.6.2 SYSTEM INFO ............................................................................................................................................34

13 ST VERSION DESCRIPTION...................................................................................................................................35

13.1 FRONT PANEL VIEW ...........................................................................................................................................35

13.2 REAR PANEL VIEW (ST VERSION).....................................................................................................................36

13.3 AC CONNECTION ................................................................................................................................................37

13.4 DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT.........................................................................................................................................37

13.5 SERIAL PORTS ....................................................................................................................................................38

13.6 ANALOG AUDIO OUTPUT (MALE XLR).................................................................................................................38

13.7 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT (FEMALE XLR).................................................................................................................39

13.8 FALCON 15 MENU TREE (ST VERSI ON).................................................................................................................40

13.9 FRONT PANEL OPERATION................................................................................................................................41

14 IN / OUT SETTINGS (ST VERSION) .......................................................................................................................42

14.1 HOW TO CONFIGURE THE INPUT (INPUT SETUP)............................................................................................42

14.1.1 SELECTING THE INPUT (ANALOG OR DIGITAL)..................................................................................42

14.1.2 ADJUSTING THE INPUT AUDIO LEVEL.................................................................................................42

14.1.3 CHOOSING THE PROPER AGC OPERATION.........................................................................................43

14.2 THE VOICE OPTIMIZER.......................................................................................................................................44

14.3 HOW TO CONFIGURE THE AUDIO OUTPUT (AUDIO MODULE SETUP)...........................................................45

14.3.1 SETTING THE PREEMPHASIS .................................................................................................................45

14.3.2 ADJUSTING THE AUDIO OUTPUT LEVEL.............................................................................................46

14.3.3 BYPASS MODE...........................................................................................................................................46

14.3.4 MONO - STEREO OPERATION.................................................................................................................47

14.3.5 NOISE GATE SETTING (Noise Gate) ........................................................................................................47

14.4 ADDITIONAL DATA AND SETTINGS....................................................................................................................48

14.4.1 SERIAL PORT SETUP................................................................................................................................48

14.4.2 SYSTEM INFO ............................................................................................................................................48

15 CHOOSING THE PROCESSING CURVE............................................................................................................... 49

15.1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................................49

15.2 THE FALCON 15 PRESET TABLE........................................................................................................................50

15.3 CHOOSING A CURVE..........................................................................................................................................51

16 THE REMOTE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE..........................................................................................................52

16.1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................................52

16.2 INSTALLING THE PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ....................................................................................................52

16.3 RUNNING THE PROGRAM...................................................................................................................................53

16.4 PC CONTROL SOFTWARE OVERVIEW..............................................................................................................53

17 ACCESSING THE TARGET FROM THE PC.........................................................................................................54

17.1 THE SETUP PANEL..............................................................................................................................................55

17.1.1 SELECTING THE PC SERIAL PORT......................................................................................................... 55

17.1.2 OTHER SETTINGS.....................................................................................................................................56

17.1.3 FRONT PANEL ‘LOCK’ FUNCTION ........................................................................................................56

18 RDS / RBDS SETTINGS (FM VERSION ONLY)....................................................................................................57

18.1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................................57

18.2 CHOOSING BETWEEN RDS OR RBDS SYSTEM................................................................................................57

18.3 CHANGING THE RDS / RBDS OUTPUT LEVEL...................................................................................................58

18.4 RDS: CONFIGURING THE SERVICES PI, PTY, DI, RADIO TEXT, TP, TA AND M/S............................................58

18.5 RBDS: CONFIGURING THE SERVICES PI, PTY, DI, RADIO TEXT, TP, TA AND M/S..........................................59

18.5.1 RDS / RBDS SERVICES DESCRIBED .......................................................................................................60

18.6 PROGRAM SERVICE NAME (PS) ........................................................................................................................61

18.6.1 SCOPE ........................................................................................................................................................61

18.6.2 THE PROGRAM SERVICE NAME EDITOR..............................................................................................61

18.6.3 PS SEQUENCES.........................................................................................................................................62

Page 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG

18.6.4 PS SCROLLING..........................................................................................................................................63

18.7 ALTERNATIVE FREQUENCIES ...........................................................................................................................64

18.8 AF METHODS A AND B ........................................................................................................................................65

19 HARDWARE SETTINGS...........................................................................................................................................68

19.1 CHANGING THE INPUT AUDIO IMPEDANCE (FM VERSION).............................................................................68

19.2 CHANGING THE INPUT AUDIO IMPEDANCE (ST VERSION).............................................................................68

20 FIRMWARE E SOFTWARE UPGRADES...............................................................................................................69

20.1 FIRMWARE UPGRADE........................................................................................................................................69

20.2 PC SOFTWARE UPGRADE..................................................................................................................................71

21 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................................................................72

22 WARRANTY................................................................................................................................................................73

23 WEEE DIRECTIVE – INFORMATIVA RAEE.......................................................................................................74

Page 5

INTRODUCTION ENG

2 INTRODUCTION

Thanks to its long exper ience in the DSP audio field, Axel Technology is proud to present Falcon 15, a 3 band
audio digital processor for FM radio broadcasting.

Falcon 15 offers the proven c ompetitive advantages of all-digital proc essing: operation versatility, instantaneous
preset recall, Pc control, upgrade capability, consistent high quality, easy installation / configuration…

Typical applications for the Falcon 15 are s mall and medium r adio stations, radio relay stations and advertising
splitting systems.

Falcon 15 comes with an user-friendly and reliable Pc control software which allows easy operations and a
constant monitoring of all processing and modulation parameters.

Falcon 15 has been refined over a period of years by an experienced team of technicians, psycho-acoustic
experts and designers specializing in the development of professional audio equipment based on DSP
technology

The Falcon 15 processing s tage provides f or analog st ereo audio inputs (a digital input is available as an option) .
You can choose between two Falcon 15 models, featuring two diff er ent Output types
MPX (i.e. suitable for a direct transmitter connection or a STL radio link).

Falcon 15 processing is bas ed on 3 com pressors related to Bass, Mid and High audio bands . The wide range of
preset curves and the sophisticated AG C stage allows all users (even unskilled) to achieve astonishing results for
density, richness and colour of the sound… An unique ‘signature’ for Yr radio sound !

Main Features

The digital M PX st ereo cod er (built-in) makes adjustements easy. The Falcon 15’s performance is enhanced by
the addition of the Stereo Coder which ensures the best ratio between signal density and modulation level.
Together with the automatic composite clipper (always included), Falcon 15 MPX Stereo Coder ensures a
modulation quality much better than that presented by external coders.

The Digital audio input (optional) supports a wide range of numerical formats (including AES3/EBU and
S/PDIF) with several sample rates. T hank s to its autom atic re cognition of the inj ected s ignal and connection type
(optic or coaxial), the Falcon 15 digital input doesn’t require any specific configuration.

The Digital RDS & RBDS coder (optional) provides the services PS, PI, PTY, M/S, AF, RT, DI, TP, TA. Program
service Name (PS) may be broadcast in a sequential mode (up to 8 different words) and with scrolling effect.
RDS programming is achieved through the Pc software which comes with the unit.

The Analog Audio Output provides bi-channel (stereo) audio output electronically balanced on XLR male. It
provides the L and R processed audio signals on which it is pos s ible to enable/dis able pre- emphasis. The level is
set via menu.

The Falcon 15 processor comes with Windows software specifically designed for remote monitoring and control
of all the proces sor sections (fr om the generation of the MPX signal to the level of AG C), as well as message
editing and enabling RDS services.

: analog stereo or composite

Page 6

INTRODUCTION ENG

2.1 FALCON 15 - AVAILABLE VERSIONS

Falcon 15 ST

Falcon 15 FM

OPTIONAL FEATURES DESCRIPTION

Falcon 15 P DG-IN Digital audio input (optical and coaxial)
Falcon 15 P Split
Falcon 15 P RDS

NOTE: the p resent manual describes Falcon 15 in its M PX (FM version) and STEREO OUT (ST v ersion)
configuration. Depending on the chosen configuration and on the chosen options, Yr actual equipment
might not provide some of the here-below described features or controls.

featuring processed stereo (bichannel) output only (i.e. separated
Left and Right channels). No stereo coder built-in

featuring built-in stereo Coder and (optional) RDS / RBDS coder.
No stereo (bichannel) audio outputs available.

Audio splitting control system (for FM version only)
Digital RDS / RBDS coder (for FM version only )

Page 7

SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA

3 SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA

SAFETY WARNINGS

CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES

ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA

WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE

INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD

(Rel. 1.1)

3.1 FOREWORD

For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty all text marked with these Warning
Symbols should be read carefully.

Information in this manual is subj ect to change without notice and does not represent a c omm itment on the part
of the vendor.

The manuf acturer shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever ar ising from the use of infor mation or
any error contained in this manual, or through any mis-operation or fault in hardware contained in the product.

It is recomm ended that all maintenanc e and service on the produc t should be carried out by the manufac turer or
its authorised agents. The m anuf ac tur er c annot ac cept any liability whatsoever for any loss or damage caus ed by
service, maintenance or repair by unauthorised personnel.

Page 8

SAFETY WARNINGS

4 SAFETY WARNINGS

The installation and servicing instructions in this manual are for use by qualified personnel only.

-

Read All Instructions. All safety and operating instructions must be read before operating the product. They also
must be retained for future reference, as it contains a number of useful hints for determining the best combination of
equipment settings for Yr particular application.

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Heed All Warnings. All warnings on the product and those listed in the operating instructions must be adhered to.

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Heat. This product must be situated away from any heat sources such as radiators or other products (including
power amplifiers or transmitters) that produce heat.

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Power Sources. This product must be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking label and
in the installation instructions. If you are not sure of the type of power supplied to your facility, consult your local
power company. Make sure the AC main voltage corresponds to that indicated in the technical specifications. If a
different voltage (ex. 110/115 VAC) is available, open the equipment closure and set the voltage switch on the main
supply circuit, located behind the AC socket

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Power Cord Protection. Power supply cords must be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on nor pinched
by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to the cords at AC wall plugs and convenience
receptacles, and at the point where the cord plugs into the product

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Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, 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.

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Lightning. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused
for long periods of time, unplug it from the AC wall outlet and the audio connections. This will prevent damage to the
product due to lightning and power line surges

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Installation. Configuration and installation should only be carried out by a competent installation engineer

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Cabling. Using high quality wires, well protected. Make sure the cable integrity.

This symbol alerts you to the presence of dangerous voltage inside the closure – voltage which
may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock. Do not perform any servicing other than that
contained in the operating instructions. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the
appliance.

Do not change the voltage setting or replace the mains fuse without first turning the unit off and
unplugging the mains cord.

Make sure the AC main voltage corresponds to that indicated in the technical specifications.
THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED !

To avoid risk of fire use the correct value fuse, as indicated on the label stuck on the right side of
the unit.

This apparatus uses a single pole mains switch and does therefore not separate the unit
completely from the mains power. To completely separate from mains power (f.i. in the event of
danger) unplug mains power cord. As the MAINS plug is the disconnect device, the disconnect
device shall remain readily operable.

Page 9

CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES

5 CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES

-

Lire ces consignes

-

Conserver ces consignes

-

Observer tous les avertissements

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Suivre toutes les consignes

-

Ne pas utiliser cet appareil à proximité de l’eau

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Ne pas obstruer les ouvertures de ventilation. Installer en respectant les consignes du fabricant

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Ne pas installer à proximité d'une source de chaleur telle qu'un radiateur, une bouche de chaleur, un poêle ou
d'autres appareils (dont les amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.

-

Ne pas annuler la sécurité de la fiche de terre, la troisième branche est destinée à la sécurité. Si la fiche fournie
ne s'adapte pas à la prise électrique, demander à un électricien de remplacer la prise hors normes.

-

Protéger le cordon d'alimentation afin que personne ne marche dessus et que rien ne le pince, en particulier aux
fiches, aux prises de courant et au point de sortie de l’appareil

-

Utiliser uniquement les accessoires spécifiés par le fabricant

-

Utiliser uniquement avec un chariot, un support ou une table spécifié par le fabricant ou vendu avec l’appareil. Si
un chariot est utilisé, déplacer l’ensemble chariot–appareil avec précaution afin de ne pas le renverser, ce qui
pourrait entraîner des blessures

-

Débrancher l’appareil pendant les orages ou quand il ne sera pas utilisé pendant longtemps.

-

Confier toute réparation à du personnel qualifié. Des réparations sont nécessaires si l’appareil est endommagé
d’une façon quelconque, par exemple: cordon ou prise d’alimentation endommagé, liquide renversé ou objet tombé
à l’intérieur de l’appareil, exposition de l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité, appareil qui ne marche pas normalement
ou que l’on a fait tomber.

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NE PAS exposer cet appareil aux égouttures et aux éclaboussements. Ne pas poser des objets contenant de
l'eau, comme des vases, sur l'appareil

Ce symbole indique la présence d'une tension dangereuse dans l'appareil constituant un risque de
choc électrique.

Ce symbole indique que la documentation fournie avec l'appareil contient des instructions
d'utilisation et d'entretien importantes.

Avant de modifier le commutateur de changement de tension ou replacer le fusible il faut débrancher
l’appareil de la prise électrique. Pendant son usage, l’appareil doit etre branchee à la prise de terre

Utiliser le fusible principal AC avec le valeur qui est indiquée sur l'étiquette collée sur le coffret.

Assurez-vous que la tension principale AC correspond à celle indiquée dans les spécifications
techniques.

L’interrupteur d’alimentation interrompt un pôle du réseau d’alimentation excepté le conducteur de
terre de protection. En cas de danger, debrancher le cordon d'alimentation. Parce que la prise du
réseau de alimentation est utilisée comme dispositif de déconnexion, ce dispositif doit demeuré
aisément accessible.

Page 10

ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA

6 ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA

-

Leggere le presenti istruzioni

-

Conservare queste istruzioni

-

Osservare tutte le avvertenze

-

Seguire scrupolosamente tutte le istruzioni

-

Non usare questo apparecchio in prossimità di acqua

-

Non ostruire alcuna apertura per il raffreddamento. Installare l’apparecchio seguendo le istruzioni

-

Non installare l'apparecchio accanto a fonti di calore quali radiatori, aperture per l'afflusso di aria calda, forni o
altri apparecchi (amplificatori inclusi) che generino calore

-

Non rimuovere il terminale di connessione a terra sul cordone di alimentazione: esso ha lo scopo di tutelare
l’incolumità dell’utilizzatore. Se la spina in dotazione non si adatta alla presa di corrente, rivolgersi ad un elettricista
per far eseguire le modifiche necessarie.

-

Evitare di calpestare il cavo di alimentazione o di comprimerlo, specialmente in corrispondenza della spina e
del punto di inserzione sull’apparato.

-

Utilizzare solo dispositivi di collegamento e gli accessori specificati dal produttore.

-

Utilizzare l’apparecchio solo con un carrello, un sostegno, una staffa o un tavolo di tipo specificato dal produttore o
venduto insieme all’apparecchio. Se si utilizza un carrello, fare attenzione negli spostamenti per evitare infortuni
causati da ribaltamenti del carrello stesso.

-

Scollegare l’apparecchio dalla presa di corrente durante i temporali o quando inutilizzato a lungo

-

Per qualsiasi intervento, rivolgersi a personale di assistenza qualificato. È’ necessario intervenire sull’apparecchio
ogniqualvolta si verificano danneggiamenti di qualsiasi natura. Ad esempio, la spina o il cavo di alimentazione sono
danneggiati, è entrato liquido nell’apparecchio o sono caduti oggetti su di esso, l’apparecchio è stato esposto alla
pioggia o all’umidità, non funziona normalmente o è caduto.

-

Non esporre a sgocciolamenti o spruzzi. Non appoggiare sull'apparecchio oggetti pieni di liquidi, ad esempio vasi
da fiori.

Questo simbolo indica la presenza di alta tensione all'interno dell'apparecchio, che comporta rischi
di scossa elettrica.

Questo simbolo indica la presenza di istruzioni importanti per l'uso e la manutenzione nella
documentazione in dotazione all'apparecchio.

Non sostituire il fusibile o cambiare la tensione di alimentazione senza aver prima scollegato il
cordone di alimentazione. L’APPARATO DEVE ESSERE CONNESSO A TERRA.

Sostituire il fusibile generale con uno di identico valore, come indicato sulla etichetta applicata sul
mobile dell’apparato.

Assicurarsi che la tensione di rete corrisponda a quella per la quale è configurato l’apparecchio.

Questo apparato utilizza un interruttore di alimentazione di tipo unipolare e l’isolamento dalla rete
elettrica non è pertanto completo. Per ottenere un isolamento totale, scollegare il cordone di
alimentazione. Inoltre, poichè la spina di alimentazione è utilizzata come dispositivo di
sezionamento, essa deve restare facilmente raggiungibile.

Page 11

WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHI NWEISE

7 WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE

-

Diese Hinweise LESEN

-

Diese Hinweise AUFHEBEN

-

Alle Warnhinweise BEACHTEN

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Alle Anweisungen BEFOLGEN

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Dieses Gerät NICHT in der Nähe von Wasser verwenden

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KEINE Lüftungsöffnungen verdecken. Gemäß den Anweisungen des Herstellers einbauen

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Nicht in der Nähe von Wärmequellen, wie Heizkörpern, Raumheizungen, Herden oder anderen Geräten
(einschließlich Verstärkern) installieren, die Wärme erzeugen

-

Die Schutzfunktion des Schukosteckers NICHT umgehen. Bei Steckern für die USA gibt es polarisierte Stecker,
bei denen ein Leiter breiter als der andere ist; US-Stecker mit Erdung verfügen über einen dritten Schutzleiter. Bei
diesen Steckerausführungen dient der breitere Leiter bzw. der Schutzleiter Ihrer Sicherheit. Wenn der mitgelieferte
Stecker nicht in die Steckdose passt, einen Elektriker mit dem Austauschen der veralteten Steckdose beauftragen

-

VERHINDERN, dass das Netzkabel gequetscht oder darauf getreten wird, insbesondere im Bereich der Stecker,
Netzsteckdosen und an der Austrittsstelle vom Gerät

-

NUR das vom Hersteller angegebene Zubehör und entsprechende Zusatzgeräte verwenden.

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NUR in Verbindung mit einem vom Hersteller angegebenen oder mit dem Gerät verkauften Transportwagen, Stand,
Stativ, Träger oder Tisch verwenden. Wenn ein Transportwagen verwendet wird, beim Verschieben der
Transportwagen-Geräte- Einheit vorsichtig vorgehen, um Verletzungen durch Umkippen

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Das Netzkabel dieses Geräts während Gewittern oder bei längeren Stillstandszeiten aus der Steckdose
ABZIEHEN.

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Alle Reparatur- und Wartungsarbeiten von qualifiziertem Kundendienstpersonal DURCHFÜHREN LASSEN.
Kundendienst ist erforderlich, wenn das Gerät auf irgendwelche Weise beschädigt wurde, z.B. wenn das Netzkabel
oder der Netzstecker beschädigt wurden, wenn Flüssigkeiten in das Gerät verschüttet wurden oder Fremdkörper
hineinfielen, wenn das Gerät Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt war, nicht normal funktioniert oder fallen gelassen
wurde.

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Dieses Gerät vor Tropf- und Spritzwasser SCHÜTZEN. KEINE mit Wasser gefüllten Gegenstände wie zum
Beispiel Vasen auf das Gerät STELLEN.

Dieses Symbol zeigt an, dass gefährliche Spannungswerte, die ein Stromschlagrisiko darstellen,
innerhalb dieses Geräts auftreten.

Dieses Symbol zeigt an, dass das diesem Gerät beiliegende Handbuch wichtige Betriebs- und
Wartungsanweisungen enthält.

Vor Änderung der Netzspannung oder Sicherungswechsel Netzkabel trennen.
Das Gerät muss für den Betrieb geerdet werden.

Hauptsicherung nur mit einer gleichwertigen austauschen (s. entsprechende Etikette).

Vor Einschalten Netzspannungseinstellung am Gerät überprüfen bzw. anpassen.

Inpoliger Netzschalter. In Notfälle oder für Wartungsarbeiten Netzkabel trennen. Der Netzstecker
fungiert auch als Trennelement muss deshalb zugänglich bleiben

Page 12

INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD

8 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD

-

LEA estas instrucciones

-

CONSERVE estas instrucciones

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PRESTE ATENCION a todas las advertencias.

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SIGA todas las instrucciones

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NO utilice este aparato cerca del agua

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NO obstruya ninguna de las aberturas de ventilación. Instálese según lo indicado en las instrucciones del
fabricante

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No instale el aparato cerca de fuentes de calor tales como radiadores, registros de calefacción, estufas u otros
aparatos (incluyendo amplificadores) que produzcan calor

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NO anule la función de seguridad del enchufe polarizado o con clavija de puesta a tierra. Un enchufe polarizado
tiene dos patas, una más ancha que la otra. Un enchufe con puesta a tierra tiene dos patas y una tercera clavija con
puesta a tierra. La pata más ancha o la tercera clavija se proporciona para su seguridad. Si el toma corriente no es
del tipo apropiado para el enchufe, consulte a un electricista para que sustituya el toma corriente de estilo anticuado

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PROTEJA el cable eléctrico para evitar que personas lo pisen o estrujen, particularmente en sus enchufes, en los
toma corrientes y en el punto en el cual sale del aparato

-

UTILICE únicamente los accesorios especificados por el fabricante

-

UTILICESE únicamente con un carro, pedestal o mesa del tipo especificado por el fabricante o vendido con el
aparato. Si se usa un carro, el mismo debe moverse con sumo cuidado para evitar que se vuelque con el aparato

-

DESENCHUFE el aparato durante las tormentas eléctricas, o si no va a ser utilizado por un lapso prolongado.

-

TODA reparación debe ser llevada a cabo por técnicos calificados. El aparato requiere reparación si ha sufrido
cualquier tipo de daño, incluyendo los daños al cordón o enchufe eléctrico, si se derrama líquido sobre el aparato o
si caen objetos en su interior, si ha sido expuesto a la lluvia o la humedad, si no funciona de modo normal, o si se
ha caído.

-

NO exponga este aparato a chorros o salpicaduras de líquidos. NO coloque objetos llenos con líquido, tales como
floreros, sobre el aparato .

Este símbolo indica que la unidad contiene niveles de voltaje peligrosos que representan un riesgo
de choques eléctricos.

Este símbolo indica que la literatura que acompaña a esta unidad contiene instrucciones
importantes de funcionamiento y mantenimiento.

Antes de cambiar la alimentacion de voltaje o de cambiar el fusible, desconecte el cable de
alimentacion. Para reducir el riesgo de descargas, esta unidad debe ser conectada a tierra.

Remplaze el fusible con lo mismo, que corresponde a lo indicado en el panel del equipo.

Antes de encender, controlar que la linea de alimentacion de voltaje corresponda a la indicada.

El interruptor de alimentación es unipolar. En el caso de peligro, desconecte el cable de
alimentación. Porque la clavija de conexion a red sirve por la desconection de la unidad, la clavija
debe ser ubicada en proximidad de la unidad.

Page 13

FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS ENG

X

9 FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS

9.1 POWER SUPPLY CABLE

A power supply cable of approx. 2 mt length is supplied with the device, which has a m oulded IEC plug attached
– this is a legal requirement.
The type of plug for the power supply depends on the country in which it is delivered.

If for any reason, you need to use this appliance with a different plug, you should use the following wiring
guidelines in replacing the exsisting plug with the new one:

Earth
Neutral (N)
Live (L)

Supply cables should be laid in such a manner that one does not step or walk on them. They should not be
squashed by any objects.

THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.

The chassis is always connected to m ains earth to ensure your safety: check your mains wiring and earthing
before switching on.

Green, or green and yellow
Blue
Brown

9.2 AC MAINS VOLTAGE SETTING (230 V / 115 V)

BE SURE THAT THE UNIT IS SET TO THE CORRECT M AINS/LINE VOLTAGE FOR YOUR
COUNTRY BEFORE PLUGGING IT INTO THE WALL OUTLET !

The actual Mains voltage is indicated on the label
the operation location not be known, please contact your dealer or electricity company.

stuck on the equipment closure. Should the type of power at

Manufacturer

Model :

230V
115V

If, for som e reas on, the unit is to be operated at a mains input voltage which is different to that as s upplied, you
need to open the top cover and set properly the voltage change-ov er switch
the transformer. You also need to replac e the AC main fuse, according to information provided on the ex ternal
label or on the Technical Specifications table at the end of this user manual.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, ALWAYS DISCONNECT
THE AC MAINS CABLE BEF ORE ALTERING THE CHANGE-OVER SWITCH. NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.

XX

VA
VA

S-N :

KKKK

mAT
mAT

which is located inside, close to

Page 14

FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS ENG

9.3 FUSE REPLACEMENT

The power supply socket has an integral fuse drawer containing the AC power fuse and a spare, both of the
same value.

BEFORE REPLACING T HE POWER FUSE, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE T HE RIGHT TYPE OF
FUSE FOR THE VOLTAGE TO BE PROTECTED.
USING WRONG FUSE TYPE WILL RESULT IN INSUFFICIENT PROTECTION.

Make sure that the power is switched off and the power cable is disconnected from the equipment.
Open the fuse drawer using a small blade screwdriver.
Replace the fuse located at the inner position
Push the fuse socket back into the original position

9.4 PROTECTION AGAINST LIGHTNING

Perform the set- up under static control conditions. Static charges are likely to com pletely destroy
one or more of the CMOS semiconductors employed in the unit. Static damage will not be
covered under warranty.
Basic damage prevention consis ts of minimizing generation, discharging any accumulated static
charge on your body and preventing that discharge fr om being sent to or through any electronic
component.

Uninsulated dangerous voltage are inside the enclosure, voltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
Always disconnect to AC Mains before removing the top cover

Should the device be put out of action due to being struck by lightning or excess voltage,
disconnect it from the power supply without delay. Do not reconnect until the device has been
checked. If in doubt contact the technical support service.

Make sure there is suitable lightning protection to protect the device.
Alternatively you should disconnect all connectors from the device during a storm or when the
device is going to be unsupervised or not used for a longer period of time.
These measures will protect against damage by lightning or excess voltage.

9.5 VENTILATION

The equipment will operate as a free-standing unit without requiring any special cooling arrangement.
However, slots and openings in the product are provided for ventilation. They ensure reliable operation of the
product, keeping it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked nor covered during operation.

YOU MUST LEAVE AT A MINIMUM ONE RACK UNIT OF EMPTY SPACE ABOVE THE EQUIPMENT TO
ENHANCE VENTILATION AND TO GET A LONGER EQUIPMENT LIFE.

Page 15

BLOCK DIAGRAM (FM & ST VERSIONS) ENG

control

10 BLOCK DIAGRAM (FM & ST VERSIONS)

AUX

AUX

1

NPU

T

I

Output Level

2

O

UTPUT

NPU

T

I

O

G

L

UTPUT

Analog Output

Versio n Only

M

ANA

P

X

O

O

UTPUT

Versio n Only

MPX

MPX+RDS

digital

24 bi t

D/A

coder

clock

6th Or der

15KHz

Elliptic

II R LP

O

G

ANA

D

TAL

IGI

NPU

T

I

receiver

32,44.1,48,96

AES3

KHz

lo w jitter

PLL

converter

24 bi t

system

rate

clock

digital

AGC

control

RMS

L

NPU

T

I

AGC

±20dB

105 dB dynamic

24 bi t

A/D

range

system

Butterworth

2 nd Order

HP

true

Output

Select

Split Control

oscillator

38KHz

digital

clipper L

MPX

digital coder MPX+RDS

Generator

To n e

transform

clipper

Hilbert

8th Ord e r

15KHz

Elliptic

II R LP

Generator

Generator

clipper R

MPX

Level

RDS

Pilot

Level

Phase

Out

RDS

Pilot

Pilot

Sync

Broadband

limiter

density

gain

Butterworth

2 nd Order

IIR LP

400

Hz

compressor

Bass

coupling

50uS/75uS

emphasis

pre

5K -15K

Butterworth

Butterwor th

400 -5

4th Ord e r

IIR BP

Hz KHz

compressor

Mid

4th Or der

IIR BP

Hz Hz

compressor

High

Logaritmic

Amplifier

Limiter

oversampler

X8

Input L

oversampler

X8

Inpu t R

Bass

Cancell ing

Distortion

Filter

Logaritmic

Amplifier

Denoiser

Page 16

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

11 FM VERSION DESCRIPTION

11.1 FRONT PANEL VIEW

1

Multifunction display (LCD) multifunction display showing the equipment operating conditions

2

LCD contrast: trimmer to adjust the display contrast. Please use a small screwdriver

3

Jog-wheel: for menu scrolling and parameter settings. It can also be pressed, having the same

control function as the Enter key

ENTER: key to access to the parameters submenu and to select the new values

4

Esc: key to Esc the current menu and go back to the previous one. By pressing this key the

5

modifications realised by accident on the selected parameter are not executed
LEDS: they show external inputs status (related to M/S and TA RDS status and to Split Enabling):

6

The three LEDs on the front panel light as the following:

LED 1

LED 2

LED 3

This LED lights up while Input 1 on Digital Data Port is ‘active’ - Split Mode enabled (please refer
to Section 12.5)

This LED lights up while Input 2 on Digital data is ‘active’. Input 2 is related to M/S RDS switch
(please refer to par. 18.5)

This LED lights up while Input 3 on Digital data is ‘active’. Input 3 is related to TA RDS switch
(please refer to par. 18.5)

Page 17

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

11.2 REAR PANEL VIEW (FM VERSION)

ON/OFF main switch, the led inside switchs on/off accordingly. If it is off while the switch is ON, please

1

check the supplied AC cord and the fuse.
AC outlet: IEC power cord receptacle. AC voltage change-over switch is located inside the box, closed to
the AC transformer

Digital input*. It features two connectors: XLR female for coaxial connections and tos-link for optical

2

connections

RS232 Serial Ports: optoisolated serial ports for connection to PCs or satellite receivers.

3

Sync-in (not connected)

4

Sync-out: Synchronism output. It provides 19KHz tone at 5Vpp to lock external equipment (for instance

5

RDS coders)
Out It features Stereo Composite signal or Stereo Composite signal +RDS (with or without signals

6

injected from Aux 1 and 2 mixed into). The output is set for a 75 Ohm load

Multipurpose Aux In (for external RDS, SCA, etc..): the injected signal is adjusted by the related

7

trimmer (near to the Bnc), mixed to the Falcon 15 internally generated signal and output by the main Out
connector. Factory preset: 0 dB gain

Multipurpose Aux In (for external RDS, SCA, etc..): the injected signal is adjusted by the related

8

trimmer (near to the Bnc), mixed to the Falcon 15 internally generated signal and output by the main Out
connector. Factory preset: 0 dB gain

Analog Input: bi-channel audio input electronically balanced on XLR female. The input level is set via the

9

menu

Digital Data Port: SubD 15-pin female Interface. It provides 3 optoinsulated “trigger” inputs (for RDS M/S

10

and TA service enabling and for splitting mode control)

* available as an option (DG-IN option – ref to Chapter 2)

Page 18

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

11.3 AC CONNECTION

The Falcon 15 uses a power entry module with AC switch just clos ed to the IEC power
cord receptacle. It can operate on 110 or 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz AC mains voltages. If the unit
is to be used with a mains voltage differ ent to that for which the unit is supplied, set the
voltage change-over switch, which is placed inside the box, closed to the AC transformer.

The power supply socket has an integr al fuse drawer containing the AC power fus e and a
spare, both of the same value.

- for 220/230 V AC the fuse is rated at 500 mA T

- for 110/115 V AC tension the fuse is rated at 1 A T

11.4 OUTPUT CONNECTOR

Depending on the version, Output BNC connector (50 Ohm im pedance) features Stereo
Composite Signal (MPX) and/or RDS s ignal (with or without signals injected from Aux 1
and 2 mixed into).

You can adjust the overall
MODULE SETUP page) in the – 9 dBm to +15dBm range. Factory preset: 0 dBm (2.2
Vpp).

Output connector can provide a refer ence tone consisting of a 500 Hz / 0 dBm sinusoidal
signal. This tone corresponds to the maximum frequency deviation. To enable it, see par.

12.3.3 .

11.5 SYNC-IN AND SYNC-OUT CONNECTORS

Sync In:
It is disconnected (not used)

Sync Out
This TT L-level (5Vpp) 19 k Hz square wave output can be used as the re ference s ignal for

any SCA generator that operates at 57 kHz or other multiple of the 19 kHz pilot frequency.
Using the 19 kHz clock from the Falcon 15 makes it much easier to phase lock the
external signal to the pilot frequency. This is extremely helpful in order to remove
intermodulation

The Sync Output is disabled

enabling).

components. For RDS coders, this feature is also very useful.

output level through the menu (MPX Level control in the MPX

by default (see par. Output Sync menu 12.3.5 for

Page 19

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

11.6 AUXILIARY INPUTS

The Aux inputs allow the Mpx, SCA, RDS injection from external coders. The resultant
signal (f.i. external RDS+ self-generated MPX) is available on the Output connector.

Remarks:
When using an external RDS encoder, the internal RDS one must be disabled.
The level of the injected signal may be adjusted by means of the trimmer next to the

corresponding BNC connector (no software control is provided
trimmer is factory preset for a gain of 0 dB.

Suggested RDS injection level is -31.5 dBm (≈ 60mVpp / 2.0 kHz deviation) in relation to
an MPX output of 0 dBm (2.2 Vpp, 0.776 Vrms).

AUX Input impedance is 10 KOhm.

11.7 ANALOG AUDIO INPUT (Female XLR)

Balanced XLR-type connectors are used for input analog audio.
The stereo analog inputs are designed for standard 0 dBu balanced signals. Input level
setting (Sensibility) is done using the software parameter settings (see par. 12.1).

XLR pinout:

In case of unbalanced connections, pleas e connec t the c old pole (Pin 3) to the ground ( Pin

1).
Factory preset input impedance is 10 kOhm . This im pedance m ay also be set to 600Ohm
by moving the two internal jumpers on the INPUT board (see Chapter 19 - hardware
settings).

Pin 1 Gnd
Pin 2 Signal
Pin 3 Return

for this purpose). This

Page 20

11.8 DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT

Transformer balanced XLR-type and optic connectors are used to input AES-3, S/PDIF,
IEC60958, EIAJCP1201 digital audio.

To avoid malfunctions, only one digital connector may be connected at a time. Please keep
the tos-link connector covered while not used.

The digital input accepts any sampling rate between 32 and 96 kHz. No user adjustment is
necessary since a sam ple rate converter is built into the unit. Furthermore, digital input
automatically recognizes the digital format
connection (optic or coaxial).

Even though both analog and digital input audio cables can be connected, only one input
can be set active (analog/digital input selection is done through the software parameter
setting - par. 12.1). Input gain and level setting for digital input is fixed.

XLR pinout: Pin 1 Gnd

In case of unbalanc ed c onnections (as r equired by S/PDIF form at), s hortcut pin 3 and 1 or
connect the unbalanced signal to XLR Pin 2 (hot) and Pin 3 (Gnd).

11.9 SERIAL PORTS

Falcon 15 features two optoinsulated RS232 serial ports which allow the remote control
and RDS programming via a connected PC (ref to Chapter 16).

Connect a standard serial cable (not cros sed) between the RS-232 connector and a serial
port connector on the computer. Cable length must not exceed 10 mt.

The ports can be separately enabled / disabled via the menu (see par. 12.6.1).
The two serial ports support Tx and Rx signals only. One serial cable comes with the unit.

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

(AES, EBU, SPDIF, etc.) and the type of

Pin 2 Signal
Pin 3 Return

Page 21

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

These inputs can be used to dynamic ally alter two RDS flags (TA and M/S) and to enable

11.10 DIGITAL DATA PORT

15-pin female Interface connector provides 3 optoinsulated “trigger” inputs.

Split operating mode in response to logic signal transitions.

INPUT 1 is used to carry external network ‘split’ command (ref to Section 13).
INPUT 2 is used to dynamically alter M/S RDS flag. Input enabling will cause LED 2 on

Front Panel to light.
INPUT 3 is used to dynamically alter TA RDS flag. Input enabling enabling will cause LED

3 on Front Panel to light.

The following table displays internal connection of Digital Port and how to provide ( f .i.) an ex ter nal T TL command
to Input # 1.

PIN

1

Cathode of photocoupler input 1 (split)

2

Cathode of photocoupler input 2 (M/S)

3

Cathode of photocoupler input 3 (TA)

6

Anode of photocoupler input 1 (split)

7

Anode of photocoupler input 2 (M/S)

8

Anode of photocoupler input 3 (TA)

Pins 9, 10, 11, 12 are linked together and provide an insulated
A current-limited + Vdc source is available on pin 15 (+ 12 V via a 1K2 resistor).

DESCRIPTION DIRECTION PIN DESCRIPTION DIRECTION

IN 9 GND /
IN 10 GND /
IN 11 GND /
IN 12 GND /
IN 15 + Vcc OUT
IN

GND connection.

Page 22

FM VERSION DESCRIPTION ENG

EXAMPLE N° 1 – controlling the SPLIT function from a TTL command

Apply an external TTL signal through a 470 Ohm
allowed: 10 mA. Nominal: 5 mA

carbon resistor to the photodiode 1 (pins 6 and 1). Max current

EXAMPLE N° 2 – controlling the SPLIT function from a clean contact

shortcut pin 9 and 1 and shortcut pin 15 and pin 6 via an external switch.

Page 23