HHB FlashMic DMR85 User Manual
FlashMic
DRM85
DIGITAL RECORDING MICROPHONE
USER MANUAL
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this HHB FlashMic.
This manual provides all the information you should need to use your FlashMic easily
and effectively. We recommend you read through the manual carefully before using your
FlashMic for the first time, and to keep it in a safe place for future reference.
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Product Details
Owner:
Company:
Date of Purchase:
Serial Number:
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Safety Information
While the HHB FlashMic has been designed to be robust in normal use, always remember
that it is both a high-quality professional microphone and a delicate electronic instrument.
As such, a degree of care should be exercised in its handling.
Take care not to subject the FlashMic to mechanical impact, e.g. dropping
•
it or knocking it on hard surfaces.
Use care when opening the battery compartment. This operation is
•
designed to be performed by hand; do not use sharp tools of any kind.
Use the connectors and jogswitch control on the base of the FlashMic with
•
care. Ensure that any cables connected are not subject to strain.
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Only dispose of used batteries in accordance with local environmental
•
and/or recycling guidelines.
Only clean the FlashMic with a damp cloth. Do not use solvent or abrasive
•
cleaners of any kind.
What’s in the box
Please check the list below against the contents of the packaging. If any items are missing
or damaged, contact the HHB dealer or distributor that you purchased the unit from at
once.
DRM85 FlashMic Microphone
•
Microphone pouch
•
Mic clip with standard thread (5/8” 27TPI), plus 3/8” adaptor
•
(16TPI BSW)
1.5m. USB cable, Type A to 5-pin Mini-B
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2 x AA alkaline batteries
•
CD-ROM with FlashMic Manager software (both Windows™ and Mac™
•
versions)
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Contents
Introduction 1
Safety Information 2
What’s in the box 2
FlashMic Features 4
FlashMic Description 5
FlashMic Display Window 6
Batteries 7
Inserting Batteries 7
Battery Management 7
Battery Status Indicator 7
Using the FlashMic 8
Jogswitch Description 8
Switching The FlashMic On 9
Making a Recording 10
PreRecord Buffer (Introduction) 10
Record Lock 11
Monitoring 11
Adjusting Record Level 11
Replaying Tracks 12
Markers 12
Deleting a Track 12
File Transfer 13
Transfer Using FlashMic Manager 13
Direct Transfer to a Computer 14
Connecting a FlashMic with low batteries to a computer. 15
FlashMic Menu System 16
Using the Menus 16
Preset Menu 17
Recording Mode Menu 18
Recording Level Menu 19
Hi-pass Filter Menu 20
Battery Type Menu 20
Delete Menu 21
Clock Set Menu 22
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FlashMic Manager 23
FlashMic File Names 35
Reformatting the Memory 36
Firmware Updates 37
Specifications 38
Notification 40
Notes 41
Installing FlashMic Manager on a PC (Initial Installation) 23
Installing FlashMic Manager on a Mac 24
FlashMic Manager Updates 24
Using FlashMic Manager 25
Configuration Files and Presets 26
Using the Default Configuration 26
FlashMic Manager Window - Features 27
Preset Information 27
Other Features and Functions 29
Connecting the FlashMic 32
Creating a New Configuration File 33
Modifying an Existing Configuration File 33
Creating a Personalised Defaults File 33
Uploading a Configuration File to the FlashMic 34
PreRecord Buffer 34
Filename Structure 35
Polar Diagram and Frequency Response Curve of Microphone Head 39
FlashMic User Manual Version 4. September ‘06
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FlashMic Features
Your FlashMic combines a professional-quality, omni-directional condenser microphone with
an internal digital audio recorder in a single self-contained, self-powered unit. An extremely
simple set of controls make it suitable for completely non-technical users; alternatively,
more experienced recordists can access a wide range of additional functionality through
menu-based pages on the FlashMic’s LCD display.
Retrieval of recordings is via the FlashMic’s USB port; the stored sound files are transferred
to a computer as .wav files in either linear or compressed (MPEG 2 Layer 1) formats.
Transfer is either by using the supplied FlashMic Manager software, or by standard dragand-drop file handling.
Think of your FlashMic as the audio equivalent of a digital camera. Just as you use a
digital camera to quickly and conveniently record high-quality visual images for subsequent
transfer to a computer, so you can use FlashMic to capture sound. Just as pictures can be
subsequently edited, stored, e-mailed, deleted, or whatever – so you can now manipulate
recorded audio in the same ways.
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The FlashMic is ideal for use by journalists and reporters for news-gathering and interviews,
by business organisations, public institutions – any situation where a quick and convenient
method of voice recording is required.
Some of the main features of the FlashMic are as follows:
•
Linear or compressed (using MPEG 1 Layer 2 compression) digital
audio recordings as .wav files.
•
Recording time up to 18hrs (file format and sample rate dependent).
•
Built-in headphone amplifier for monitoring, with adjustable level.
•
Uses 2 x AA cells – either alkaline or rechargeable.
•
Modes of operation to suit both technical and non-technical users.
•
Adjustable pre-record buffer of up to 10 seconds.
•
Rapid file transfer via USB to PC or Mac.
•
9 internal presets for storing different FlashMic configurations.
•
Adjustable recording level or fixed AGC mode, with bargraph display.
•
Remaining Time display.
•
Replay of last or an earlier recording via monitor output.
•
Markers (cue points) can be added to recordings in both Record and
Playback.
•
File recovery system allowing recovery of most audio data in the event of
power loss or other failure.
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FlashMic Description
USB
MENU
PHONES
2
3
4
1
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10
11
98
Protective basket (windshield) over mic capsule
1
2
FlashMic body
LCD display – see FlashMic Display Window
3
Main operating control section
4
REC button (G)
5
PLAY button (H)
6
5 76
MENU/STOP button (M)
7
8
Multi-function jogswitch control - see Jogswitch Description
9
Record mode LED (REC LED)
10
USB connector (5 pin Mini-B)
11
PHONES: monitor output (3.5mm 3-pole jack socket)
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00:12:12
Rec
Play
FlashMic Display Window
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12
13 14 15
17
16
6-character alphanumeric display
12
4-segment battery status indicator
13
REC flag – indicates FlashMic is in record mode.
14
15
PLAY flag – indicates FlashMic is in replay mode.
16-segment bargraph meter – provides an indication of recording and
16
playback level.
17
Display backlight
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Batteries
The FlashMic requires two AA-size batteries. Either 1.5v alkaline or 1.2v NiMH (nickel metal
hydride) rechargeable batteries may be used.
Batteries of at least 1500mAh capacity are recommended.
!
Do not use zinc chloride batteries.
Inserting Batteries
Hold the FlashMic in one hand and unscrew the rear
section (the section with the display and operating
controls) with the other.
Slide the rear section back as far as it will go.
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Open the hinged plastic battery compartment cover.
Insert the two batteries oriented as shown on the
compartment cover.
!
The two batteries must point the same way.
!
Always change both batteries at the same time, and always use two batteries of the same
brand and type. NEVER mix alkaline and rechargeable batteries.
Close the cover, push the rear section back over the compartment, and screw up tight.
Note: If changing alkaline batteries, dispose of the old ones in a responsible manner –
always observe local environmental guidelines.
Battery Management
Battery life will be maximised if the FlashMic is switched off when not in use, as the power
consumed in IDLE mode is virtually the same as in REC mode.
The internal clock settings are protected within FlashMic for approximately 1 minute after
the batteries are removed. Recorded sound files and configuration settings are not affected
by battery removal.
Remove any batteries from the FlashMic if it is to be unused for an extended period (more
than a month).
Battery Status Indicator
A 4-segment battery status indicator is provided on the LCD display.
The number of segments displayed is proportional to the battery power remaining. The rate
of change of the display can be altered (via the menu system or via the FlashMic Manager
software) to reflect the different discharge characteristics of alkaline or rechargeable
batteries.
The display backlight, the record LED on the FlashMic base and the battery indicator will all
flash when the remaining battery life approaches zero. If the FlashMic is recording when the
batteries are nearly exhausted, the recording will be stopped after the flashing warning.
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Using the FlashMic
Jogswitch Description
Many of the FlashMic’s operating functions are accessed via the jogswitch on the bottom
panel. These include power on/off, navigation through the various internal menus,
adjustment of levels, and track selection for replay.
Operation of the jogswitch for each specific FlashMic function is described in detail in the
section of the manual covering the function. However, because the jogswitch has several
physical movements associated with it, an overview is given here.
The jogswitch is a small wheel protruding from the base of the FlashMic. It is effectively three
momentary-acting pushbuttons in one; it can be pressed inwards (from its rest position),
or rotated in either direction. The actions are all spring-loaded so that the jogswitch always
returns to its rest position. Each of the three possible movements can be either ‘long’ or
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‘short’, giving a total of six possible actions. The FlashMic’s firmware determines a ‘long’
press to be one of greater than 2 seconds. duration, and as ‘short’ press to be one of less
than 2 seconds.
The diagram below summarises the possible movements.
Elsewhere in this manual, the following notations are used to denote the various types of
jogswitch action. It is assumed that the FlashMic is orientated with the LCD display facing
the user.
NOTATION ACTION
SHORT PRESS Press the centre protrusion inwards and release
LONG PRESS
SHORT DOWN TURN Move the wheel downwards and release
LONG DOWN TURN
SHORT UP TURN Move the wheel upwards and release
LONG UP TURN
Press the centre protrusion inwards for a least 2
seconds
Move the wheel downwards and hold for at least 2
seconds
Move the wheel upwards and hold for at least 2
seconds
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03:14:35
Switching The FlashMic On
The FlashMic is switched on by a SHORT PRESS on the jogswitch, and switched off by a
LONG PRESS until the text OFF appears in the display. The FlashMic will turn off when the
jogswitch is released.
Note that it is not possible to turn the FlashMic off while it is connected to a computer via
its USB cable.
On switching the FlashMic on, the LCD panel displays in sequence:
DRM85
ê
Firmware version
ê
Microphone name
ê
Active preset.
Note that the factory default microphone name is DRM_85 and the factory default preset
is PSET_1.
After this sequence, the FlashMic is in its standby state – referred to in this manual as IDLE
mode - and the displays are as shown below.
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FlashMic IDLE Mode Displays
In IDLE mode – i.e. when the FlashMic is powered but not otherwise being operated – the
main display alternates between the number of the last recording (
within the FlashMic are referred to as ‘tracks’) and the remaining recording time.
An exception to this is when no recordings have been made since the FlashMic was last
reconfigured, when the message NOFILE appears instead of TRKnnn.
The FlashMic is fitted with an internal calendar/clock. Before using the FlashMic for the
first time it is recommended that this is set correctly, as this information is included in the
audio file header as their time/date. See Clock Set Menu, page 22 for details of how to
do this.
TRKnnn
- recorded files
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03:24:04
Rec
SAVING
Making a Recording
!
The file format created within the FlashMic includes a record of the date and time at which
the recording was made, together with textual information – entered via FlashMic Manager
software – to aid later identification of recordings. Nevertheless, it is good recording
practice to keep a separate written or electronic recording log during a recording session in
the field, as many similar-sounding files may often be created.
Keeping such a log is recommended. It will frequently ease the task of identifying your
recordings after they have been transferred into a computer for further editing.
To initiate a new recording, press the red REC button (G). The REC flag in the display and
the REC LED on the FlashMic’s rear panel both illuminate.
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The record LED can be turned off, if for example, the FlashMic is in camera shot. To do this,
!
press and hold the PLAY button while the FlashMic is in REC Mode; the display will show
LEDOFF. The LED can be re-enabled by repeating this action while still in REC Mode. Note that
the LED will always illuminate initially when REC Mode is selected.
The bargraph meter in the display provides an indication of the audio level, in both Idle mode
and Record mode.
The main display indicates the remaining recording time, and counts down.
When there are 10mins. of record time remaining, the display backlight, the record LED
on the FlashMic base and the REC flag in the display will all flash. The FlashMic will stop
recording when there is 1min. of recording time remaining; this is to allow for data error
correction.
To stop the recording, press the M/STOP button (M). The text
SAVING appears in the display, and after a brief pause, the IDLE display resumes, with the
track number being indicated.
Recording Display Saving Recorded Track
Factory settings:
Settings of recording format, record level, etc., will generally be made via the system
of configuration files and presets within the FlashMic Manager software. However, the
FlashMic comes with a set of factory parameters enabling it to be used “out of the box”,
without any recourse to FlashMic Manager. See Using the Default Configuration, page 26
for a list of these parameter values.
PreRecord Buffer (Introduction)
In a busy journalistic schedule, it is sometimes difficult - or impossible - to get to the record
button quickly enough. The result is a recording that starts a few seconds after the vital bit
of information that was needed. The FlashMic incorporates a pre-record buffer of up to 10
seconds (adjustable), which avoids this situation.
When the recording is replayed, it will be found that it begins with the few seconds of audio
captured immediately prior to the REC button being pressed.
See PreRecord Buffer, page 34 for more details.
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Record Lock
UNLOCK
Rec
LOCKED
Rec
RVOL35
Rec
RV AGC
Rec
The FlashMic is equipped with a REC LOCK function to prevent the accidental cancelling of
REC mode during a recording.
Once in REC mode, press the REC button a second time, holding it down for at least 2
seconds, until the LCD screen displays the text LOCKED.
Pressing the M/STOP button will now have no effect (other than to display the text
LOCKED).
To disable REC LOCK mode, press and hold the REC button until the LOCKED display changes
to UNLOCK.
Now the recording can be stopped in the normal manner by pressing M/STOP.
REC LOCKED/UNLOCK Displays
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Monitoring
A pair of headphones may be connected to the FlashMic for monitoring purposes.
Headphones of 32 ohms impedance or higher should be used. Connect the headphones via
the 3.5mm 3-pole jack marked PHONES on the FlashMic bottom panel. The mono signal
from the FlashMic will be heard in both earpieces. Headphone monitoring of live audio is
active in both IDLE and REC modes.
The monitor output may be used to drive external equipment for monitoring or recording
if desired.
The monitor level is adjusted with the jogswitch; a SHORT PRESS shows the text PHONnn on
the LCD display, where nn = the current level. (The units are arbitrary; 00 = off, 50 = max.)
A SHORT UP TURN or DOWN TURN will respectively increase or decrease the monitor
level. Note that the monitor level always resets to a factory preset level when the FlashMic
is switched on. The level can be adjusted during REC, PLAY or IDLE modes.
The LCD display will return automatically to the REC or IDLE displays after a timeout period
of approx. 2 seconds.
Adjusting Record Level
Adjustment of Record level is only possible if the FlashMic has been set (via the FlashMic
!
Manager software) to permit configuration changes by the user. See the section on FlashMic
Manager for more information.
The recording level is adjusted with the jogswitch. A SHORT UP TURN or DOWN TURN
while in REC mode displays the text RVOLnn, where nn = the current level. (Unlike monitor
level, the units are not arbitrary, being increments of approximately 1dB; 01 = min, 40 =
max.) Further SHORT UP or DOWN TURNS will nudge the record level up or down.
When the record level is reduced to minimum, the AGC system is selected and the display
shows RV AGC. In this mode, FlashMic automatically adjusts recording level according to the
sound level. In most situations, this ensures that a recording of usable level will be made,
but as with all automatic gain systems, a degree of background noise “pumping” may be
audible on the recording.
It is also possible to adjust the FlashMic’s recording level from IDLE mode, using the menu
system. See FlashMic Menu System, page 16.
Note that the record level always resets to the last value used when the FlashMic is
switched on, and not to the value set as part of the preset by FlashMic Manager. (See
section on FlashMic Manager for more information on presets.)
Setting Recording Levels
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00:00:01
Play
TRK005
Replaying Tracks
A recorded track may be replayed for auditioning purposes.
To replay the last track recorded, press the PLAY button (H). The PLAY flag on the LCD
display illuminates. After a brief pause, the display shows the elapsed time of the track.
The bargraph meter will show the level of the track being replayed. The playback may be
monitored via the PHONES connector. At the end of the track, the FlashMic will resume
IDLE mode. Pressing the M/STOP button during replay will also return the FlashMic to IDLE
mode. To pause playback during play, press PLAY again. The LCD display will show PAUSE.
Play can be resumed by pressing PLAY again, or stop mode can be entered by pressing
‘MENU/STOP.
A LONG UP TURN on the jogswitch will “fast-forward” the track (FFW mode), to enable a
particular section of the track to be located. Similarly, a LONG DOWN TURN “rewinds” the
track (REW mode). The time display continues to show the track time during these ‘fast’
modes.
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Note, if marker points have been added to the track, jogswitch turns will instead ‘jump’ the
replay to the next or previous marker point (depending on jogswitch direction). (See the
following section on ‘Markers’ for more information.)
To select and replay a track other than the last recorded, decrement the track number
with SHORT DOWN TURNs on the jogswitch. (A LONG DOWN TURN will decrement faster.)
UP TURNs will similarly increment the track number. When the required track number is
displayed, press the PLAY button to replay the track.
It is also possible to select a different track while remaining in PLAY mode; SHORT TURNs of
the jogswitch will skip to the next or previous track, depending on the direction of rotation.
Be careful not to make LONG TURNs, as the FlashMic will instead enter FFW or REW
mode, as described above.
Select Track Display
Track Replay Display
Markers
It is often useful to mark one (or more) points in a recording for ease of reference during
later production and editing. You can add markers to FlashMic recordings in both REC and
PLAYBACK modes..
The markers are ‘data flags’, which are embedded in the sound file at the appropriate point.
They will appear as onscreen markers when the downloaded sound files are later loaded
into a sound editing package. The markers are written to the sound file with both linear and
compressed recording formats.
FlashMic markers are recognised by a number of professional editing applications, including
Cool Edit Pro, Adobe Audition, Sound Forge V4 and above. Note however, that editors can
currently only read markers in sound files recorded using the linear recording modes.
A marker is added whilst recording or during playback by a short press on the REC button.
(Note that a long press activates the REC LOCK function in REC mode). The LCD display
briefly displays MARKED. As the marker is purely a data flag within the sound file, no further
indication of its presence will be apparent until the resulting file is loaded into an editor
(although the marker points can be used as locators during playback).
Deleting a Track
If an erroneous or otherwise unwanted or unusable recording is made, it may be deleted
from the FlashMic’s memory to save memory space.
Deletion of tracks is performed via the FlashMic menu system. See Delete Menu, page 21
for full details on how to delete a track.
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File Transfer
Typically, you will use your FlashMic ‘in the field’ to capture a number of different recordings.
The resulting sound files will need to be downloaded from the FlashMic into a computer at
some point for further evaluation, editing, deletion, or other treatment before they can be
broadcast or otherwise made useful.
In many organisations, the process of file transfer may be performed by someone other
than the person who made the recordings. It is possible that a FlashMic may have been
used by more than one recordist. Or it may happen that one recordist may use more than
one FlashMic during a day of field recording. Thus is it important that any log that has been
kept during the recording should be referenced during the transfer process so that files can
be correctly identified and attributed.
There are two methods for transferring sound files from FlashMic to a computer.
• Via the FlashMic Manager software supplied with FlashMic.
• Direct transfer.
Transfer Using FlashMic Manager
This assumes FlashMic Manager has already been installed on a computer. See section
Installing FlashMic Manager, page 23 if this is not the case.
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•
First determine the location in the computer’s directory structure where
the sound files should be transferred to. This may necessitate creating and
naming new folders for the purpose.
•
Open the FlashMic Manager application. (Note the window which opens is
not maximisable.)
•
Switch the microphone on.
•
Connect the FlashMic to a spare USB port on the computer, using the cable
supplied.
•
The FlashMic LCD display will show USB, and the large red indicator in
the FlashMic Manager window will turn green. There should also be some
audible and/or visual confirmation on the computer that the FlashMic has
been ‘recognised’. (Exactly what form this confirmation takes may vary
slightly from computer to computer. Ignore any window called DRM85 that
may open.)
•
In the area USB Connection, click the button Download Audio Data from
DRM… The Transfer Audio Files dialogue box opens.
The tick boxes wav and mp2 allow the file extensions of any selected MPEG
•
audio files to be changed. This only applies to MPEG recordings and not Linear
recordings.
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The sound files in the FlashMic will be listed. Select those to be transferred
•
by highlighting them with a single click. (Normal Windows/MAC
conventions re multiple file selection apply.)
Click the Transfer… button. The Browse For Folder dialogue box opens.
•
Navigate to the folder into which the sound files are to be transferred. Click
•
OK.
The file(s) are transferred. Depending on the number and length of sound
•
recordings, and the spec of the computer, this may take from a few
seconds to some minutes, during which time a progress indication is
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provided. When the files have been transferred successfully, a confirmation
box appears. Dismiss this, and the transfer is complete.
Unmount the FlashMic. This action is performed by double-clicking the USB
•
device icon in the status bar. This will open the Safely Remove Hardware
dialogue box, in which external hardware connected to the PC’s USB ports will be
listed. Select the DRM-85 by clicking on it, then click STOP. This step will ensure
that no data is lost by simply disconnecting the mic.
It is now safe to disconnect the FlashMic. After disconnection, it can be
•
switched off.
Direct Transfer to a Computer
As the FlashMic is a generic USB mass storage device, files can be transferred from it to a
Mac or PC in the same way as from any other USB mass storage device.
Do not attempt to format the FlashMic from Mac or PC as the internal file system will be
!
corrupted and any recordings will be lost.
Do not use the Chkdsk command from a PC as this may corrupt the FlashMic file system.
Note the example given below applies to a PC running Windows™ XP. Other operating
systems differ slightly, if you are unsure about this procedure, please consult your HHB
dealer.
Switch the microphone on.
•
Connect the FlashMic to a spare USB port on the PC, using the cable
•
supplied. The FlashMic’s display will show USB.
You can audition the sound files recorded in the FlashMic before transferring them, if
wished. To do so:
If a “DRM-85 (d:)” window opens (d = drive letter, will vary with PC) listing
•
options for playing music files, you can select any audio file application
offered (such as Windows™ Media Player) to audition the sound files within
the FlashMic. The options available will depend on which software
applications are installed on the PC.
If the drive folder above does not open, you can still audition the files by
•
opening any audio application available on the PC, and selecting File>Open. Then
navigate first to the DRM-85 device, which will be listed among the drives, then to
the AUDIO folder within it. The sound files are all in this folder.
If you do not wish to audition the files first, or have already done so, perform the transfer
as follows:
First determine the location in the PC’s directory structure that the files
•
should be transferred to. This may necessitate creating and naming new
folders for the purpose.
Using Windows™ Explorer, navigate to the DRM-85 drive in the ‘Folders’
•
pane, and open the folder called ‘AUDIO’. The recorded sound files will be
listed in the main pane. Do not delete any files in any of the other folders.
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Drag-and-drop the required sound files to their new location in the normal
•
way.
Unmount the FlashMic. This action is performed by double-clicking the USB
•
device icon in the status bar. This will open the Safely Remove Hardware
dialogue box, in which external hardware connected to the PC’s USB ports will
be listed. Select USB Mass Storage Device by clicking on it, then click STOP.
Select the DRM-85 and click OK. This step will ensure that no data is lost by
simply disconnecting the mic.
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It is now safe to disconnect the FlashMic. After disconnection, it can be switched
•
off.
Connecting a FlashMic with low batteries to a computer.
It is generally recommended that the FlashMic should not be connected to a computer if
the batteries are running low. If the batteries do go flat during data transfer, the FlashMic
will continue to perform the transfer, as it will also be powered via the USB connection.
However, in this condition data loss may occur if the USB cable is unplugged without the
FlashMic first being unmounted from the computer. Therefore unmounting the FlashMic (as
described in the transfer procedures above) is recommended at all times, but is essential
if the batteries are low.
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MENU
FlashMic Menu System
The FlashMic’s menu system allows you to adjust internal settings and select various options
to suit your specific recording needs.
Basic recording, playback and file transfer do not require use of the menu system.
Note that some of the menus will only be available to the user if access to them was enabled
in the FlashMic Manager software at the time of configuration file definition. These menus
are clearly indicated in the descriptions that follow and are marked with an asterisk (*) in
the table below. Please see the manual section on FlashMic Manager for more information
about configuration files and enabling or disabling user access.
Using the Menus
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The menu system is entered by pressing the M/STOP button while the FlashMic is in IDLE
mode. The word MENU appears in the display.
Note that pressing M/STOP while the FlashMic is in REC or PLAY modes cancels REC or
PLAY.
Entering the Menu System
This is the ‘header’ of the menu option list. A SHORT DOWN TURN of the jogswitch will
now bring up the first of the menus, PRESET. Subsequent SHORT DOWN TURNs bring up
the others in turn. When the menu that you want to check or modify is reached, it may be
selected by a SHORT PRESS of the jogswitch.
The menu options are:
MENU DISPLAY USE
Preset Menu
*Recording Mode Menu
*Recording Level Menu
*Hi-pass Filter Menu
*Battery Type Menu
Delete Menu
PRESET
R MODE
RECLEV
HIPASS
BATTYP
DELTRK
Allows selection of a different configuration
preset
Allows selection of audio file format
Adjustment of recording level
Hi-pass filter in/out
Set for battery type in use
Deletes selected recording
Clock Set Menu
Pressing M/STOP a second time (from anywhere within the menu structure) will return the
FlashMic to IDLE mode.
A SHORT PRESS on the jogswitch from within a menu option (i.e., after a menu option has
been selected) returns the FlashMic to the opening screen of that menu option. The display
will briefly show OK to confirm that the required change has been made.
TIMDAT
Sets internal calendar and clock
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PRESET
PSET 1
EMPTY
Preset Menu
The Preset Menu allows the user to select which preset from the FlashMic’s current
configuration file is to be used.
The FlashMic’s configuration file can have up to 9 presets. The configuration file is loaded
into the FlashMic from a computer, using the supplied FlashMic Manager software. Each
preset determines the value of various FlashMic parameters, including recording level
and mode, pre-record buffer duration and the file name. (The file name will appear in the
header of the audio files.) The parameters are all defined within FlashMic Manager; see
Configuration Files and Presets, page 26 for a full description.
To enter the Preset Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and then
make one SHORT DOWN TURN of the jogswitch. The display will show PRESET. Select this
with a SHORT PRESS, and the name of the currently selected preset will be displayed. To
select a different preset, make SHORT UP or DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch. The display
will show the names of the alternative presets, as they were defined in FlashMic Manager.
When the name of the required preset is displayed, a SHORT PRESS on the jogswitch will
select it and load it into the FlashMic. The display will then show OK to confirm.
Preset Menu Display
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Note that not all 9 presets available in a configuration file need to be defined in FlashMic
Manager. Those not defined will be displayed as PSET N, where N is a number between 1
and 9, as PSET N is the default preset name used in FlashMic Manager. (However, note that
PSET N will still be displayed for a preset that has been defined if the default name is not
altered!) If selection of an undefined preset is attempted, the message EMPTY is displayed,
indicating that this preset location cannot be used.
Preset Name
Note that when the FlashMic is first used “out of the box”, all nine presets are empty.
Preset Empty
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R MODE
Recording Mode Menu
This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’
when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager.
The Recording Mode menu permits selection of an alternative digital recording format to
that determined by the currently selected preset.
A total of six recording formats are available within FlashMic; two file formats at each of
three sample rates. The formats are:
FILE TYPE
ENGLISH
BWF files (uncompressed) 48kHz
BWF files (uncompressed) 44.1kHz
BWF files (uncompressed) 32kHz
MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 48kHz
MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 44.1kHz
MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 32kHz
The choice of recording mode will usually be determined by the onward programme
production chain.
To enter the Recording Mode Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button,
and then make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows R MODE.
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display will show the name of the currently selected
recording mode, as listed above. To select a different recording mode, make SHORT UP or
DOWN TURNs. The display will show the names of the alternative modes.
SAMPLE
RATE
DISPLAY
LIN48K
LIN44K
LIN32K
MP48K
MP44K
MP32K
MAXIMUM
RECORDING TIME
3hr
3hr 15min
4hr 30min
12hr 15min
14hr 40min
18hr 25min
When the required recording mode is displayed, a SHORT PRESS on the jogswitch will
select it. The display will then show OK to confirm.
Record Mode Menu Display
The recording mode selected will be that used for subsequent recordings until a different
recording mode or preset is selected.
Note that any recordings already in the FlashMic’s memory will remain at whatever mode
was applicable when they were made.
En.18
RECLEV
RVOL34
RV AGC
Recording Level Menu
This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’
when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager.
The audio level used during recording will be that defined within FlashMic Manager for the
preset being used. The Recording Level menu permits this level to be altered.
To enter the Recording Level Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button,
and then make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows RECLEV.
Record Level Menu Display
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display shows either RVOLnn - where nn = the
current level – or RV AGC if automatic adjustment of recording level was defined for the
current preset.
The recording level can now be adjusted with SHORT UP or DOWN TURNS. A SHORT
PRESS selects the new level.
ENGLISH
Record Level Setting
The units used are in dBs; 01 = min, 40 = max.
When the record level is reduced to ‘zero’, the AGC system is selected.
In this mode, FlashMic automatically adjusts recording level according to the sound level.
In most situations, this ensures that a recording of usable level will be made, but as with
all automatic gain systems, a degree of background noise “pumping” may be audible on the
recording.
Record Level Set To AGC
It is also possible to adjust the FlashMic’s recording level whilst recording. See Adjusting
Record Level on page 11.
Note that the record level always resets to the last value used when the FlashMic is
switched on, and not to the value set as part of the preset.
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HIPASS
BATTYP
Hi-pass Filter Menu
This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’
when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager.
The FlashMic’s analogue circuitry includes a hi-pass filter, to assist in the rejection of
extraneous low-frequency background noises, such as air-conditioning noise or traffic
rumble. The filter has a slope of 12dB/oct. and a turnover frequency of 100Hz.
The filter is set to be in or out of circuit in the FlashMic Manager software for each preset,
and is loaded into the FlashMic with the configuration file. However, the filter may be
switched in and out of the recording chain via the menus.
To enter the Hi-pass filter Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and
then make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows HIPASS.
ENGLISH
Hi-pass Filter Menu Display
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display shows either HP ON or HP OFF. The filter
can be switched in or out with SHORT TURNs of the jogswitch. A SHORT PRESS selects the
setting. The display will then show OK to confirm.
Battery Type Menu
This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’
when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager.
The FlashMic may be powered by rechargeable or alkaline batteries. The two types of battery
have different discharge characteristics, and for the battery status symbol in the LCD
display to reflect the battery’s remaining charge as accurately as possible, it is necessary
to set the battery type menu parameter to match the batteries being used.
The battery type is set in FlashMic Manager as a ‘global’ setting, which is applicable to all
presets in one configuration file, and is not selectable to the different types for different
presets. The setting may be overridden via the Battery Type Menu.
To enter the Battery Type Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and
then make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows BATTYP.
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display shows either ALKLIN (alkaline) or RECBLE
(rechargeable). The battery type can be changed with SHORT TURNs of the jogswitch. A
SHORT PRESS selects the setting. The display will then show OK to confirm.
En.20
Battery Type Menu Display
DELTRK
TRK005
SURE N
SURE Y
Delete Menu
It is often desirable to delete unwanted recordings (tracks) from the FlashMic’s memory,
particularly if they have been made erroneously or are otherwise unusable. The Delete
Menu permits the user to do this.
Note that any track deleted in this way is deleted permanently and irrecoverably.
As tracks are only referred to by their track number on the FlashMic’s LCD display, before
deleting a track always ensure you know which one you are trying to delete. The importance
of maintaining an accurate recording log is again emphasised. If you have any doubt about
the track number, replay it first to ensure you have the correct one.
To enter the Delete Menu, enter Menu mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and then
make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows DELTRK.
Delete Track Menu
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display shows the currently selected track number,
which will normally be that of the last track recorded.
ENGLISH
Select Track for Deletion
If it is required to delete a different track, SHORT TURNs of the jogswitch will alter the track
number either up or down. When the number of the correct track is displayed, a SHORT
PRESS selects it. The text SURE N is now displayed. If you are sure you have selected the
correct track, a SHORT DOWN TURN will change the display to SURE Y.
Cancel Track Deletion
Another SHORT PRESS will now delete the track. Note that the track numbers of subsequent
recordings are not altered. The display will then show OK to confirm.
If the jogswitch is pressed in while SURE N is displayed, nothing is deleted, and the FlashMic
returns to the head of the menu option, with DELTRK being displayed.
Confirm Track Deletion
En.21
TIMDAT
Clock Set Menu
The FlashMic contains a real-time calendar/clock, which allows a date and time ‘stamp’ to
be embedded in the audio file headers. This is a great aid to later accurate identification of
what may be many similar-sounding recordings made in the field.
The clock runs continuously whilst batteries are fitted. It continues to run for approx. 1
minute after the batteries are removed, allowing time for a change of batteries. If the
batteries are removed for a longer period, or before the FlashMic is used for the first time,
the clock will need to be set to the correct date and time of day.
Note that the FlashMic is perfectly usable without the clock being set accurately; the
only consequence is that the file date/time information will be incorrect (though intervals
between file creation times will be accurate).
To enter the Clock Set Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and then
make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows TIMDAT.
ENGLISH
Clock Set Menu Display
Select this with a SHORT PRESS, and the display shows Y yyyy, where yyyy is the year.
This can be altered up or down with SHORT TURNs of the jogswitch. A SHORT PRESS
selects the setting, and the display will now show in turn MON mm, where mm is the number
of the month of the year; DAY dd, where dd is the day of the month; HH hh, where hh is the
hour of the day (note that FlashMic uses a 24-hr. clock); MM mm for minutes, and SEC ss
for seconds. Each of these can be altered in the same way as the year. The full sequence
is show below.
TIMDAT
ê
Y 2006
Set Year
ê
MON 04
Set Month
ê
DAY 06
Set Day
ê
HH 23
Set Hour
ê
MM 00
Set Minutes
ê
SS 25
Set Seconds
After setting all the date and time parameters, the LCD display returns to the opening
TIMDAT screen after briefly displaying OK; the menu system can then either be exited by
pressing M/STOP, or another menu option can be selected with the jogswitch.
En.22
FlashMic Manager
FlashMic Manager is the software application supplied with FlashMic. The CD-ROM that
came supplied contains both PC and Mac versions.
While it is perfectly possible to use FlashMic without using FlashMic Manager, you will not
be using it to its full effectiveness, and will not be accessing the full range of features and
functions that FlashMic offers.
Using FlashMic Manager gives three main advantages:
You will be able to alter the internal configuration of your FlashMic, to
•
determine which file formats and sample rates are used, and to change other
FlashMic parameters.
You will be able to change the default filename prefixes to something more
•
meaningful to the particular job, adding, for example, a reporter’s name.
FlashMic Manager provides a very simple method of downloading recorded
•
files to the computer.
The installation instructions given assume that the user is familiar with basic Windows™/
Mac™ operations for file handling, navigation, etc. If you are unsure how to install the
software, please consult your organisation’s IT department, or your HHB dealer.
ENGLISH
Installing FlashMic Manager on a PC (Initial Installation)
PC REQUIREMENTS FOR FLASHMIC MANAGER
Any PC satisfactorily running Windows™ XP or 2000 should support FlashMic Manager
software without any difficulty. One spare USB port on the PC is required, for connection
of the FlashMic.
Insert the FlashMic CD-ROM into the CD/DVD drive of the PC. The CD should
•
autostart, and the the InstallShield Wizard will activate. Click Next and the
following window will appear. See the Manual Installation instructions on Page 24 if
autostart does not run.
A default destination directory will be provided: C:\Program Files\FlashMic
•
Manager. Alternatively, a directory of your choice may be selected; use the
Change button to navigate to a suitable location in the normal Windows
manner.
Click Next. A confirmation screen will be displayed.
•
Click Next to proceed and install the FlashMic Manager software.
•
Click Finish upon completion.
•
En.23
Manual Installation instructions.
If, for any reason, the CD does not autostart, open My Computer, and double-click
•
the CD, which will be called FlashMic.
Find the folder titled FMM_Win and copy it to a suitable location on the hard drive.
•
C:\Program Files is a recommended location.
Within this folder is a file named Setup.exe. Double click this file and the FlashMic
•
Manager install wizard will launch.
ENGLISH
Installing FlashMic Manager on a Mac
MAC REQUIREMENTS FOR FLASHMIC MANAGER
Any Mac running OSX (Version 10.4.x or later) should support FlashMic Manager software
without any difficulty. One spare USB port on the Mac is required, for connection of the
FlashMic.
Insert the FlashMic CD-ROM into the CD/DVD drive of the Mac. A CD Icon called
•
FlashMic Manager will appear on the desktop.
Open the folder ‘FMM_MacOSX’ located on the CD and double-click the installation
•
program FMMInstall. This installs FlashMic Manager into the Applications folder on
the main hard drive. A program alias is also copied onto the desktop.
To launch the FlashMic Manager, double click the FlashMic Manager icon on the
•
desktop.
FlashMic Manager Updates
As a responsible manufacturer, HHB adopts a policy of continuous product development.
As with all software-based products, it may be desirable from time to time to update
the FlashMic Manager software with a more recent version. You can contact your HHB
dealer or distributor, or visit the FlashMic website at http://www.flashmic.info for details
of software updates.
The current version will be displayed on the website along with details of how to download
new software.
Always be sure to delete any existing version of FlashMic Manager before installing a later
version. This can be done by simply moving the single file FlashMicManager.exe to the
Recycle Bin (PC) or Trash (Mac)
En.24
Using FlashMic Manager
The user interface of FlashMic Manager opens as shown below:
ENGLISH
FlashMic interface running on a PC
FlashMic interface running on a Mac
En.25
Configuration Files and Presets
Before you start exploring the features of FlashMic Manager, it is important to understand
some basic terminology and the concepts behind the use of presets.
Various parameters of the FlashMic’s operation can be changed with FlashMic Manager.
A set of parameters is called a preset, and the FlashMic can hold up to 9 presets at any
time.
The FlashMic user can select whichever is appropriate for the recording application using
the menus.
A set of 9 presets is saved as a configuration file within the computer, and you may create
and name as many configuration files as you need. Configuration files are saved with a .cfg
filename extension. The entire configuration file will then be uploaded into the FlashMic,
giving it its 9 presets.
The FlashMic parameters which can be defined in a preset by FlashMic Manager are the
ENGLISH
following:
PARAMETER VALUES USER ALTERABLE*
Preset Name 6-character text string No
Record Mode File type & sample rate Yes
Pre-record Buffer 0 to 10 seconds. No
Record Level 8 steps from 5dB to 40dB Yes
High-pass Filter In/Out Yes
Backlight 3 options No
Filename 31-character text string No
Battery Display
Characteristic
* Parameters marked ‘Yes’ can be subsequently changed within the FlashMic by the user,
provided that Configuration Changes were enabled in FlashMic Manager at the time of
configuration file creation.
Alkaline or rechargeable Yes
Using the Default Configuration
The first time FlashMic Manager is run, a file Defaults.cfg will be created. It will be found
in the same folder containing the FlashMic Manager executable file (FlashMicManager.
exe). This file differs from other *.cfg files in that its purpose is to provide a convenient set
of default parameter values to aid the user in setting up his/her own personalised default
configuration file.
The parameter values provided by this default are:
En.26
PARAMETER VALUES
Record Mode Linear, 48kHz sample rate
Pre-record Buffer Off
Record Level AGC on
High-pass Filter On
Backlight Energy saving mode
Filename TRACK
Battery Display Characteristic Alkaline
These are the settings that will be found in the FlashMic when used for the first time “out
of the box”.
To see these parameters displayed in FlashMic Manager, click File>New (or hit CTRL+N).
This will remove the greyed-out fields ready for data entry. Then click Presets>Set Default
Values (or hit CTL + D). This loads the parameter values listed above into the data fields for
the currently selected Preset number, as shown in the Select Preset box (in this instance,
1). The FlashMic Manager window should now look like this:
ENGLISH
Note that it is possible to modify Defaults.cfg to suit the requirements of your own
organisation (for example to include your company name). See Creating a Personalised
Defaults File, page 33.
FlashMic Manager Window - Features
Preset Information
Using the default parameter set loaded previously as an example (PSET_1), examine the
various items of information now displayed in the window.
Items marked ‡ are those uploaded to the FlashMic as part of the preset.
Current Config file:
The filename displayed here will be that of the currently loaded configuration file. In this
case, ‘New’ is displayed because the file has not yet been saved.
Select Preset – drop-down box permitting selection of one of the 9 presets making up the
configuration file.
Preset Custom Name ‡ – text box for the name of the preset. This will be displayed in the
FlashMic during power-up (if the preset was the last used before power-down).
Note that underscore characters are used to insert spaces in the example preset name,
PSET_1.
SAVE
Clicking this button saves the configuration file currently loaded in FlashMic Manager to
the same filename it had when it was opened. If the file has been created from new (as in
the example case), a standard Save File As window for a new filename will be opened first.
The default name offered is Presets.cfg, but the user may substitute any other filename
preferred. Clicking the SAVE button is equivalent to selecting File>Save, or using the
keyboard shortcut CTRL + S.
En.27
Preset Configuration
ENGLISH
Record Mode ‡ – this drop-down box lets you determine the file type and sample rate from
6 options:
RECORD
MODE
LIN48K BWF files (uncompressed) 48kHz 3hr
LIN44K BWF files (uncompressed) 44.1kHz 3hr 15min
LIN32K BWF files (uncompressed) 32kHz 4hr 30min
MP48K MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 48kHz 12hr 15min
MP44K MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 44.1kHz 14hr 40min
LIN32K MPEG1 (Layer 2) files 32kHz 18hr 25min
Audio Format – confirms selected audio algorithm
Sample Rate – confirms selected sample rate
Encoded BitRate – confirms effective bitrate of data being written into memory
PreRecord Buffer ‡ – drop-down box for setting the duration of the FlashMic’s pre-record
buffer in 1 second increments from zero (off) to 10 seconds. (Set to OFF in example) See
section on PreRecord Buffer, page 34 for more information.
Record Volume/AGC ‡ – If the AGC box is checked (as in this case), the Record Volume
drop down box will be greyed-out. With this setting, the AGC circuit is turned on, and no
fixed record level is set.
If the AGC box is unchecked, the Record Volume drop-down box permits setting of the
record level in 5dB increments from 5dB to 40dB.
FILE TYPE
SAMPLE
RATE
MAXIMUM
RECORDING TIME
See Adjusting Record Level, page 11 for more information.
High Pass Filter ‡ – FlashMic includes a 100Hz 12dB/octave high-pass filter which can
be switched in and out.
Backlight ‡ – the display panel backlight in FlashMic can be set to be permanently on
or off, or to “Energy-Save mode”, where the backlight illuminates for a short period when
a button is pressed. The battery life will be noticeably shortened if the backlight is set to
“Always On”.
En.28
BWF/MPEG File Info
File Name ‡ - The text in this field (default text ‘TRACK’ in the example) will form part of
the header of all sound files recorded in the FlashMic with this preset. This is to assist later
identification. Note the file name can be different for each preset in the configuration file.
The name can have up to 31 characters.
See File Name Structure, page 35 for more information.
Note: The data in the next three fields is written into the BEXT data chunk of the .wav file,
and can be read by any compatible editing system.
Company Name – This field is optional and can be used for reference and housekeeping
purposes. Max. length is 31 characters.
Reporter Name - This field is optional and can be used for reference and housekeeping
purposes. Max. length is 31 characters.
ENGLISH
Description - This field is optional and can be used for reference and housekeeping purposes.
Max. length is 255 characters.
Other Features and Functions
DRM Configuration
Enable Configuration Changes in DRM – Setting this to “No” restricts the range of menu
options available in the FlashMic itself. Refer to the table within Using the Menus, page
16 to see which parameters will not be alterable by the user. Setting this option to “Yes”
enables the full range of menu options.
Battery – this drop-down box is for setting the type of batteries being used. It changes the
characteristic of the battery status display on the FlashMic to reflect the different discharge
rates of the two types.
USB Connection
Send this configuration file to DRM
Clicking this button initiates the upload of the configuration file currently loaded in FlashMic
Manager into the FlashMic.
Download Audio Data from DRM
Clicking this button initiates the download of the sound files currently in the FlashMic to the
computer (see section Transfer Using FlashMic Manager, page 13 for more details).
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