Lectrosonics AM16/12 Operating Instructions Manual
AM16/12
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
and trouble-shooting guide
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Rio Rancho, NM
www.lectrosonics.com
INTRODUCTION
The AM16/12 is the most advanced automatic matrix mixer available today. Combining 16 automatic input channels,
12 output channels, and a full crosspoint matrix system into 2 rack spaces, the AM16/12 is a compact solution for a
wide variety of sound system applications. 15 nonvolatile preset memory positions mean complete flexibility and
reconfigurability.
The 16 automatic inputs utilize the Lectrosonics patented Proportional Gain plus Autoskew mixing algorithm* for
seamless automatic mixing performance. Input preamp gains include +50dB and +30dB for both dynamic and
electret microphones, and 0dB for line level inputs. Gain trim range on the inputs is +15dB to -63dB plus off.
The crosspoint matrix allows any input (or combination of inputs) to be routed to any output (or combination of
outputs). Various crosspoint gains settings are available. In addition to the 16 inputs, matrix sources include the
audio from the LecNet Expansion connector as well as an internal noise source.
The 12 outputs are balanced line level. Outputs 9-12 each have a mic/line level switch to make those outputs
compatible with mic level devices like some four channel tape recorders.
The AM16/12 features a wealth of programmable features. With 17 programmable inputs and 19 programmable
outputs, even the most sophisticated control schemes are straightforward. The programmable inputs can control
input or output level on any grouping of inputs or outputs, memory preset recall, matrix crosspoint switching, or
various functions associated with the built-in room combining capability. Programmable outputs can indicate either
input channel activity or the current state of a programmable input.
The AM16/12 has an RS-232 port for remote setup or control by a computer or other RS-232 compatible controller.
More than one AM16/12 may be coupled together for larger applications.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 2
GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION ............................................................. 3
INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................... 4
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION ............................................................................ 7
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 8
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................. 9
AM16/12 CONTROL PANEL SOFTWARE......................................................... 12
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................................... 27
FCC PART 15 NOTICE ....................................................................................... 27
SERIAL CABLE WIRING DIAGRAMS .............................................................. 28
SERIAL PORT COMMANDS AVAILABLE ......................................................... 29
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................... 34
SERVICE AND REPAIR ...................................................................................... 35
RETURNING UNITS FOR REPAIR .................................................................... 35
WARRANTY ........................................................................................... Back cover
* U.S. Patents 5,402,500 and 5,414,776
2
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
VARIABLE LOW CUT
HIGH CUT/BOOST
TO A/D CONVERTER
MIX BUS 1
MI
X BUS 2
MI
X BUS 3MIX BUS 4
MI
X BUS 5MIX BUS 6
MI
X BUS 7MIX BUS 8
MIX BUS 9
MI
X BUS 10
MI
X BUS 11
MI
X BUS 12
MAIN IN
MIX MINUS OUT
EXPANSION IN
INPUT #1 (OF 16)
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
SWITCH
+15V
AUTO MIX LOG IN
ARRAY
CHANNEL ON
FROM INPUT 2
FROM INPUT 3
FROM INPUT 4
FROM INPUT
5
FROM INPUT 6
FROM INPUT
7
AUDIO
MIC IN +
VCA
MAIN OUT
MIC PREAMP
MIC IN -
FROM D/A
FROM INPUT
8
CONVERTER
MIX MINUS IN
EXPANSION OUT
FROM INPUT
9
FROM INPUT 10
FROM INPUT
11
MIC GND
AUTO MIX LOG OUT
FROM INPUT 12
FROM INPUT 13
FROM INPUT 14
TX
FROM INPUT 15
LECNET PORT
FROM INPUT
16
(RS-232)
RX
uC
68HC12
NOM IN 1
PREAMP GAIN
SPEECH LOG
0dB (LINE)
+30dB (MIC)
FILTER CONVERTER
+50dB (MIC)
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
1
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
2
PROCESSOR
NOM IN 2
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
3
CONTROLLED
NOM IN 3
VARIABLE
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
4
1 OF 16
NOM IN 4
RESISTOR
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
5
A/D
NOM IN 5
SERIAL BUS
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
6
PROCESSOR
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
7
CONVERTER
NOM IN 6
NOM IN 7
NOM IN 8
NOM TOTAL 1
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
8
RESISTOR
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
9
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
10
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
11
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
12
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
13
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
14
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
15
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
16
AUDIO EXP IN
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
17
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
1
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
2
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
3
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
4
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
5
NOM TOTAL
2
NOM TOTAL
3
NOM TOTAL 4
D/A
CONVERTER
NOM TOTAL
5
NOM TOTAL
6
NOM TOTAL
7
NOM TOTAL
8
NOM TOTAL 1
NOM TOTAL 2
NOM TOTAL 3
NOM TOTAL
4
NOM TOTAL 5
NOM TOTAL 6
NOM TOTAL
7
NOM TOTAL 8
NOM OUT
1
NOM OUT
2
NOM OUT
3
D/A
NOM OUT
4
AUDIO EXP OUT
NOM OUT
7
NOM OUT 5
NOM OUT 6
CONVERTER
NOM OUT
8
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
6
8
7
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
9
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
10
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
11
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
12
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
13
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
14
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
15
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
16
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
17
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
18
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
19
NOISE GENERATOR
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
RESISTOR
NOISE
BALANCED
10dB
LINE OUTPUT 1
SOURCE
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
2
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
3
10dB
BALANCED
LINE OUTPUT 4
10dB
BALANCED
10dB
LINE OUTPUT 5
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
6
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
7
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
8
10dB
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
10dB
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 9
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 10
10dB
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 11
10dB
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
12
10dB
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
ATTENUATORS
GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
The AM16/12 uses a straightforward analog signal path to provide excellent audio performance. This is coupled with a
sophisticated microcontroller to implement the automatic mixing, matrix control, room combining, and programmable
input and output functions. The Adaptive Level Proportional automatic mixing algorithm is used by the AM16/12. This
algorithm uses the signal level pattern at the microphones to derive a pattern of channel gains. For instance, if only one
microphone channel is being spoken into, its level is dominant and that channel gets most of the system gain, while all
other channels are turned down. If more than one microphone is active, they share system gain according to their
relative levels. A “skewing” function gives some advantage to microphones which are active over time, to minimize
interruptions from transient noise at other microphones. Since the gain of each channel is apportioned continuously
based on its relative level, no abrupt gain changes are made. This makes the automatic action virtually inaudible.
Figure 1 shows the simplified block diagram of the AM16/12. The microphone preamp is a low-noise discrete design,
which is extensively RF protected. The preamp has three gain settings. The 0dB setting allows an input to accept
line level signals, while the +30dB and +50dB gain settings accommodate both low and high sensitivity microphones.
Switchable 15V Phantom power is provided for each channel.
Following the mic preamp, the
audio signal passes through a
high quality Voltage Controlled
Amplifier (VCA). This VCA,
controlled by a signal from the
system D/A converter, is used
to implement both static gain
control (i.e. mic trim and
remote input level) and gain
reduction for the automatic
mixing function. A Channel On
LED indicates which inputs are
currently active. A sweepable
low-cut filter and a shelving
high frequency filter provide
tone control for each input.
The 16 inputs are routed
through an 18 in / 12 out
crosspoint matrix. The matrix
has multiple crosspoint gains
to accommodate the most
complex signal routing needs.
Aside from the 16 inputs, the matrix also
includes two other inputs: a noise generator and the input signal from the
LecNet Expansion In rear panel connector.
Signals from the Expansion In and
Expansion Out connectors allow easy
interface to AM8 mixers. In addition, a
Mix Minus signal is available which
allows easy interfacing to teleconferencing hybrids like the TH3A.
An RS-232 port is available to allow
many of the functions of the AM16/12 to
be controlled either by a computer or a
dedicated control system (such as the
AMX® or Crestron™ systems).
Rio Rancho, NM – USA
AM16/12 Block Diagram
3
INSTALLATION
e
t
,
)
Because it is so highly integrated, the AM16/12 is straightforward to install. The following sections explain the
installation and wiring, as well as the software setup of the AM16/12.
AM16/12 Audio Inputs
Each of the 16 AM16/12 inputs is balanced, and provides 15V phantom power (through 2K ohm feed resistors to the “+” and “-” input connections). Phantom
power is switchable on a per-channel basis. The drawing to the right shows two examples of line level interface
with the AM16/12; one, an unbalanced line level source
and the other, a balanced line level source.
Unbalanced Line Level Source Balanced Line Level Sourc
Input + Input +
Input - Input -
Input Gnd
Input Gnd
AM16/12 Audio Outputs
Each of the 12 AM16/12 outputs is balanced, and outputs 9 - 12 may be set for line or microphone level output. To
use an output in the unbalanced line level mode, take the signal from the “+” output connection and the output
ground. Leave the “-” output floating. To use outputs 9 - 12 in the unbalanced microphone level mode, take the
signal from the “+” output connection and the output ground. In this case, you should connect the “-” output to
ground. Be sure that the MIC/LINE switch is in the MIC (down) position for the desired output.
AM16/12 Programmable Inputs
The AM16/12 has 17 programmable inputs which can
Pot Connection for Analog Control of Gain
control a variety of AM16/12
parameters. Each input can
10K Linear Pot
respond to either a contact
closure or a continuous
voltage. The diagram to the
right shows common connec-
CCW
CW
+5V
To Programmable Input Pin
Gnd
tions to the programmable
input pins.
Each programmable input is internally pulled up through a 100K resistor
to +5V, so no external pull up resistors are necessary. When using a
continuous voltage with one of the programmable inputs, the Function of
the programmable input must be set to either Analog In Control or Analog Out Control. See the Programmable Input
tab in the AM16/12 Control Panel software for setting all programmable input parameters.
Contact Closure as Programmable Input
To Programmable Input Pin
Gnd
DC Voltage Source as Programmable Inpu
To Programmable Input Pin
0VDC (Off) to +5VDC (On)
Gnd
AM16/12 Programmable Outputs
The AM16/12 has 19
programmable outputs
which can indicate either
channel activity or the current
state of a programmable input.
Each programmable output is
the electrical equivalent of a
contact closure to ground. When a
programmable output is “active”, it
conducts current to ground. When
the programmable output is “inactive”,
no current flows to ground. The maximum usable voltage for the programmable outputs is 40V, and they will safely
conduct up to 100mADC continuous. The
diagram on the right shows some typical
uses for the programmable outputs.
4
LED is on when the programmable output is active
+5VDC (from Programmable Input
Pins 14, 17, 20 or 23)
Programmable Output Pin
Gnd (from Programmable Output
Pins 15
380 Ohms
Relay is on when the programmable output is active
Programmable Output Pin
17, 19, 21, 23 or 25
Relay Coil
Coil current <100mA
LED is off when the programmable output is active
+5VDC (from Programmable Input
Pins 14, 17, 20 or 23)
Gnd (from Programmable Output
Pins 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 or 25)
1N4001
or equiv.
Programmable Output Pin
External
DC Voltage
Source
(<40VDC)
380 Ohms
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
It is permissible to run LEDs from the +5VDC pins on the programmable input connector, as long as the total LED
current for all LEDS on does not exceed 100mA. Similarly, 5V relay coils may also be run from the +5VDC pins on
the programmable input connector, as long as the total coil current for all relays on does not exceed 100mA. Note
that the diagram shows an external DC source powering the relay coil. This will be necessary if coil voltages above
5V are needed.
Audio Expansion In/Out
When multiple AM16/12s are used in an application, their Audio Expansion ports must be interconnected using the
Audio Expansion In/Out connectors on the rear panel of the AM16/12. These two 30 pin headers are just to the right
of the LecNet (RS232) jack on the rear panel. A 3" 30 conductor ribbon cable is supplied with each AM16/12 for this
purpose. When installing the AM16/12s in a rack, the Master AM16/12 should be mounted in the top of the rack, with
Slave AM16/12s mounted below the Master AM16/12. The ribbon connector then connects the Audio Expansion In
connector of the Master AM16/12 to the Audio Expansion Out connector of the first Slave AM16/12. If there are
more than one Slave AM16/12s, the Audio Expansion In connector of the first Slave AM16/12 is connected to the
Audio Expansion Out connector of the second Slave AM16/12, and so on for as many Slave AM16/12s as exist in the
system.
Switch in
"MASTER"
position
Switch in
"SLAVE"
position
Switch in
"SLAVE"
position
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT IN
A S
S L
16.5 VAC
T E A
R V E
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT IN
S
A
L
S
16.5 VAC
A
T
V
E
E
R
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT IN
S
A
L
S
16.5 VAC
A
T
V
E
E
R
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
LecNet
(RS232)
LecNet
(RS232)
LecNet
(RS232)
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
ON
To additional AM16s
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
16
GAIN
16
GAIN
16
15
15
15
1 -GND 6 - IN 4
2- IN 1
7 -GND
3- IN 2 8 - IN 5
4 -GND
9 - IN 6
5- IN 3 10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
6 - IN 4
1 -GND
2 - IN 1
7 -GND
8 - IN 5
3 - IN 2
4 -GND
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
5 - IN 3
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
6 - IN 4
1 -GND
2 - IN 1
7 -GND
8 - IN 5
3 - IN 2
4 -GND
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
5 - IN 3
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
GAIN
14
GAIN
14
GAIN
14
13
13
13
Switch in
"MASTER"
position
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT IN
A
S
S
L
16.5 VAC
T
A
E
V
R
E
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PWR
IN
(CH40)
20 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
OFF
ON
EXPANSION
OUT
TH3A Rear Panel
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
16
AM16/12 Rear Panel
IN
LecNet
(RS232)
GAIN
15
1 - GND
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
2 - IN 1
8 - IN 5
3 - IN 2
9 - IN 6
4 - GND
10 - GND
5 - IN 3
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
GAIN
14
13
Connecting multiple AM16/12s together Connecting the AM16/12 to the TH3A
Rio Rancho, NM – USA
5
Switch in
"MASTER"
position
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT IN
A
S
S
L
16.5 VAC
T
A
E
V
R
E
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
LecNet
(RS232)
ON
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
GAIN
16
15
6 - IN 4
1 - GND
7 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
10 -GN D
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
GAIN
14
13
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
LecNet
(RS232)
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
OFF
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
ON
16
GAIN
15
1 -GND
6 - IN 4
2 - IN 1
7 -GND
3 - IN 2
8 - IN 5
4 -GND
9 - IN 6
5 - IN 3
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15
+
+
––
AM16/12
Rear Panel
GAIN
14
13
PWR
IN
EXPANSION
(PS60)
M
OUT
S
A
L
S
16.5 VAC
A
T
V
E
E
R
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
IN
OFF
PWR
(CH40)
20 VAC
IN
EXPANSION
M
S
A
L
S
A
T
E
V
R
E
IN
OUT
LECTROSONICS, INC.
REMOTE LEVEL
LecNet
(RS232)
Switch in "SLAVE" position
Connecting the AM16/12 to the AM8 Connecting the AM16/12 to the TH3A and a video codec
LecNet Expansion In/Out
CONTROL
AM8 Rear Panel
MAIN OUT
+ –
CH8 IN
1 2 3 4
Switch in "MASTER"
position
PWR
IN
(CH40)
DIR
+
–
OUT
20 VAC
EXPANSION
OUT
IN
LecNet
(RS232)
AM16/12 Rear Panel
TX INSERT
+
–
OUT IN
+
–
CODEC
+ – +
OUT IN
–
TELEPHONE
LINE SET
TH3A Rear Panel
Video
Codec
When other LecNet devices are used in conjunction with the AM16/12s, the LecNet Expansion ports of these devices
must also be interconnected. Refer to the diagrams above for proper interconnections. The LecNet Expansion In
and Out pinouts are shown below.
5
2
Pin Expansion In Function
1 Main In
2 Mix Minus Out
6
78
34
1
3 NOM in
4 NOM total
5 RS-232 RX
6 RS-232 TX
7 Ground
8 N/C
Expansion Out Function
Main Out
Mix Minus In
NOM out
NOM total
RS-232 RX
RS-232 TX
Ground
N/C
6
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION
CHANNEL ACTIVITY LEDS - Indicates channel activity. The LEDs light when the attenuation applied by the auto-
matic mixing algorithm is less than or equal to 6dB. The indication of channel activity is responsive to the Input
Qualification and Output Hold time parameters, which may be set in the Miscellaneous tab of the AM16/12 control
panel.
RESET DEFAULTS button - This button will reset the unit to factory defaults when held down while the power switch
is turned on.
LECTROSONICS, INC.
RIO RANCHO, NM – USA
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
CHANNEL ACTIVITY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
RESET
DEFAULTS
POWER
AM16/12 Front Panel
Rio Rancho, NM – USA
7
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION
1 - GND
6 - IN 4 11 - IN 7 16 - IN 11
21 - IN 14
2 - IN 1
7 - GND
12 - IN 8 17 - +5V
22 - IN 15
3 - IN 2
8 - IN 5
13 - IN 9 18 - IN 12
23 - +5V
4 - GND
9 - IN 6 14 - +5V 19 - IN 13
24 - IN 16
5 - IN 3
10 - GND
15 - IN 10 20 - +5v
25 - IN 17
1
13
14
25
1 - OUT1
6 - OUT6 11-OUT11 16-OUT15
21-GND
2 - OUT2
7 - OUT7
12-OUT12 17-GND
22-OUT18
3 - OUT3
8 - OUT8
13-OUT13 18-OUT16
23-GND
4 - OUT4
9 - OUT9 14-OUT14 19-GND
24-OUT19
5 - OUT5
10-OUT10
15-GND 20-OUT17
25-GND
1
13
14
25
MIC/LINE INPUTS 1-16 - Accepts balanced or unbalanced signal. Fully balanced differential input, RF filtered.
GAIN SELECTION SWITCHES 1-16 - Allows input channel gain to be set. 0dB gain, for line level sources, is set
when both switches of the pair are in the up position. 30dB gain, typically for high output (electret) microphones, is
set when the left switch is in the up position and the right switch is in the down position. 50dB gain, used for low
output (dynamic) microphones, is set when both switches are in the down position.
LINE OUTPUTS 1-12 - Provide balanced system outputs. The Line Outputs may also be used in an unbalanced
mode by connecting the “+” terminal of the Line Output to the signal lead of the unbalanced device, and the ground
terminal of the Line Output to the ground of the unbalanced device. See “AM16/12 Audio Outputs” on page 4 for
more information on connecting the outputs in balanced and unbalanced mode.
MIC/LINE SWITCHES 9-12 - Introduces 40dB of attenuation into the associated line
outputs 9-12. This yields the appropriate signal levels to interface with mic level
devices.
PROGRAMMABLE INPUTS - Allows remote control of a number of AM16/12 functions. Each of the 17 programmable inputs can utilize either continuous DC voltages
(0VDC-5VDC) or contact closures, depending on the particular function chosen. For
continuous voltages, either a 10K ohm linear pot or an adjustable DC control voltage
may be used. The volume control action is internally scaled in software, giving an
“audio-taper” characteristic to a linear pot. When using a DC control voltage, the
control constant is 0.167V/dB (or 6dB/V) from 0V to 5V. At 0V, the channel is turned
completely off. The control voltage should not exceed 5V.
PROGRAMMABLE OUTPUTS - Allows indication of either channel activity or programmable input states. Each of the 19 programmable inputs is the electronic
equivalent of a contact closure. The logic output will sink up to 100mA at voltages up
to 40VDC, however, the total current draw of all logic outputs should not exceed
100mA if the internal +5V supply is used.
AUDIO EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows multiple AM16/12s to be linked together when more than 16 inputs are
needed. In multiple AM16/12 setups, one AM16/12 is set to be the Master, and all others are set to be Slaves. The
Audio Expansion In of the Master AM16/12 is connected to the Audio Expansion Out of the first Slave AM16/12,
using the supplied 30 pin ribbon cable. The Audio Expansion In of the first Slave AM16/12 is connected to the Audio
Expansion Out of the next Slave AM16/12, and so on.
RS-232 SERIAL PORT - Provides access to and control of some of the operational features of the AM16/12. The
port is compatible with the serial port of a PC, or other controllers with RS-232 type serial ports. For hardware
interconnection and software details, see Appendix 1, “Serial Port Hardware and Software”.
EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows other LecNet devices to be connected to the AM16/12. Also used when multiple
AM16/12s are connected together to bus the RS-232 serial connection between AM16/12s.
MASTER/SLAVE SWITCH - Sets the AM16/12 for use as a Master device or a Slave device. AM16/12s used singly
should be set for Master mode operation.
PWR IN - Connects to the PS60 power supply to provide power for the AM16/12.
PHANTOM POWER SWITCHES - Allow +15V phantom power to be applied or not on a per-channel basis.
PWR
EXPANSION
IN
M
OUT IN
A
S
16.5 VAC
S
L
T
A
E
V
R
E
(PS60)
PHANTOM POWER
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
MADE IN U.S.A.
OFF
ON
LecNet
(RS232)
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
1 - OUT1
GAIN
11 - IN 7
12 - IN 8
13 - IN 9
14 - +5V
15 - IN 10
13
16 - IN 11
17 - +5V
18 - IN 12
19 - IN 13
20 - +5v
1
14
14 13
+
21 - IN 14
22 - IN 15
23 - +5V
24 - IN 16
25 - IN 17
––
6 - OUT6
2 - OUT2
7 - OUT7
3 - OUT3
8 - OUT8
4 - OUT4
9 - OUT9
5 - OUT5
10-OUT10
13
25
GAIN
12 11
12
+
+
11
––
1 - GND
6 - IN 4
2 - IN 1
7 - GND
3 - IN 2
8 - IN 5
4 - GND
9 - IN 6
5 - IN 3
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABLE
INPUTS
GAIN
16 15
16
15
14
+
+
––
16-OUT15
11-OUT11
17-GND
12-OUT12
18-OUT16
13-OUT13
19-GND
14-OUT14
20-OUT17
15-GND
PROGRAMMABLE
LOGIC OUTPUTS
GAIN
10
+
9
21-GND
22-OUT18
23-GND
24-OUT19
25-GND
MIC/LINE INPUTS
10 9
+
+
––
LINE
MIC/LINE OUTPUTS
MIC/LINE
+
––
GAIN
8 7
8
+
7
12 11 10 9
MIC
++
0dB GAIN (LINE) +30dB GAIN (ELECTRET) +50dB GAIN (DYNAMIC)
GAIN
6
+
5
––
6 5
+
GAIN
4
+
––
LINE OUTPUTS
4 3
+
3
2 1
4 36 58 712 11 10 9
GAIN
2
+
––
+
+
+
––
–– ++–– ++–– ++––
2 1
+
+
1
––
8
AM16/12 Rear Panel
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
r
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Since most of the parameters used to set up the AM16/12 are adjusted using the AM16/12 Software Control Panel,
the operating instructions include instructions for the use of the software. It is recommended that you have the
software running, either live or in the demo mode, as you read through this section.
Power Up
When the AM16/12 is powered on, it automatically loads the active setup from Preset 1. Therefore, you should
always store the desired power--up setting for the AM16/12 in Preset 1.
Master/Slave Switch
The Master/Slave switch should be set to the Master position if only one AM16/12 is being used. When multiple
AM16/12s are used in a system, only one is set to Master and the rest are set to Slave. See also the wiring descriptions of the Audio Expansion In/Out and Expansion In/Out connectors in the Installation section.
Input Preamp Gain
Input preamp gain is set using the dip switches just to the left of each 5 pin input connector. Dip switch settings for
0dB, +30dB, and +50dB input gain are shown on the rear panel of the AM16/12. Generally, the +50dB position is
used for all dynamic microphones and electret microphones where the working distance from the microphone will be
greater than about 18 inches. The +30dB position is useful for electret microphones with working distances less than
18 inches and most wireless microphones. The 0dB setting is for line level sources. Remember to switch phantom
power on for electret microphones and off for dynamic mics or line level sources.
Output Mic/Line Switch (Outputs 9 - 12)
Outputs 9 through 12 may be either Mic or Line level outputs. The dip switch between the output connectors for
outputs 9/10 and 11/12 controls the output level. There is approximately 40dB of attenuation introduced in the Mic
position relative to the Line position.
Using the AM16/12 Software Control Panel
The AM16/12 software control panel may be used in one of two ways. When launched from the LecNet Master Pro
application, you can control all the parameters of the AM16/12 in real time. (Your PC must be connected to the
AM16/12 using the supplied LecNet serial cable in order for this to happen.) Alternatively, you can launch the
AM16/12 control panel directly and it will automatically come up in the demo mode. The demo mode is useful for
doing system setup (and saving the setups to a disk file) without the need to be connected to an AM16/12.
System setup follows the order of the tabs on the control panel. Star t at the left tab and work your way to the right.
The only exception to this is when you are using room combining. In this case, after setting up the input gain and
input tone controls, go directly to the room combining tab. Please refer to the AM16/12 Control Panel Software
section of this manual for a complete description of each control panel tab.
+50dB, +30dB, 0dB
Mic/Line In
Input Channel (1 of 16)
Mic Preamp
Input Gain
+15dB to -63dB, Off
Tone Controls
Rear Panel
0dB to -30dB, Off
Matrix Crosspoint
The diagram below represents the signal flow of one input to one output through one matrix crosspoint. Illustrated
are all the gain control points in the signal path.
(1 of 216)
+6dB
+3dB
0dB
-5dB
-10dB
-15dB
Output Channel (1 of 12)
Output Gain
+10dB to -68dB, Off
To Balanced
Output Drive
Rear Panel
0dB to -30dB, Off
To adjust this parameter: Use this control:
Mic Preamp Gain
Input Gain
Rear Panel (Input) Gain
Output Gain
Rear Panel (Output) Gain
Rear panel dip switches
Input gain tab on AM16/12 control panel software
Programmable inputs on AM16/12 rear panel
Output gain tab on AM16/12 control panel software
Programmable outputs on AM16/12 rear panel
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Input Gain Tab
Each input channel has two gain control points, in addition to the rear panel preamp gain switches. The input control
point labeled “Input Trim” is adjusted using the Input Gain tab on the AM16/12 control panel. This control is used to
adjust the sensitivity of each microphone or line level input to the desired gain. The gain adjustment range is +15dB
to -63dB plus off. You may want to increase the mic preamp gain if you find that your input gain settings are routinely
above +10dB.
The input control point labeled “Rear Panel” represents the gain adjustments which can be made from the rear panel
programmable inputs. The rear panel gain control is attenuation only, starting at a maximum gain of 0dB. The rear
panel input gain controls may be limited in their adjustment range using the Miscellaneous Settings tab on the AM16/
12 control panel. In addition, you may set a rear panel preset gain value that will be applied to any outputs which are
being controlled by a programmable input. The preset gain is applied at power up or when sub-rooms are combined
or uncombined (using the room combining capabilities of the AM16/12). Note that if there are no limits applied to the
rear panel gain range, the input channel may be turned completely off. The current gain value of the rear panel
controls is displayed on the Miscellaneous Settings tab.
Output Gain Tab
The output gain structure is identical to the input gain structure, with the exception that the Output Gain range is
+10dB to -68dB plus off. The output gain is adjusted using the Output Gain tab.
Matrix Setup Tab
Matrix crosspoint gain can be set using the Matrix tab. Input-to-output gains are set based on the requirements of
the application. For example, you can set up a “mix-minus” sound reinforcement system when you are using multiple
microphones and overhead distributed speakers. Each speaker (or small group of speakers) would be fed from its
own mix of microphones. A given speaker’s mix would consist of all microphones not physically close to the speaker,
while excluding those microphones which are close to the speaker. The possibility of feedback is greatly reduced
when this approach is repeated with all system speakers. A multichannel amplifier (like the Lectrosonics PA8) may
be used to power each speaker individually.
Programmable Inputs Tab
Programmable inputs may be set up using the Programmable Inputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applications
for each of the programmable input functions available:
Analog In Control: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage source.
Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for mute.
Increase In 1dB, Decrease In 1dB: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch
closures. Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is
pushed and held, it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or
low limit.
Analog Out Control: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage
source. Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for
mute.
Increase Out 1dB, Decrease Out 1dB: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch
closures. Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is
pushed and held, it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or
low limit.
Memory Preset: Used to recall one of the 15 AM16/12 preset memories with a momentary switch closure. Remember to save the same memory preset associations in all the AM16/12 memory preset positions you’ll be using. You
can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs you’re
using for memory preset recall to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the current memory preset.
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Used to temporarily apply the signal from any one of the 16 inputs to any combination of
outputs using a momentary switch closure to toggle the state of the affected crosspoints. Useful for zone paging
applications, etc.
10
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
Mute In: Used to mute one or more inputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between mute
and unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs you’re using for input muting to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the mute/unmute state of the inputs.
Mute Out: Used to mute one or more outputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between
mute and unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs you’re using for output muting to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the mute/unmute state of the
outputs.
Toggle Room Boundary: Used when room combining is active to connect the boundaries (using a momentary
switch closure) of two rooms and combine their sound systems. This option is not available in the Programmable
Inputs tab, but is set automatically by the AM16/12 control panel when the room combining function is active.
Not Used: Unassigns a programmable input from any system function.
Programmable Outputs Tab
Programmable outputs may be set up using the Programmable Outputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applications for the two programmable output functions available:
Input Channel Activity: Used to indicate when one or more channels are active. This function may be used for
video-follow-audio applications, where each programmable output indicates activity on one or more channels. The
programmable outputs are connected to logic inputs on a video switcher to switch between cameras.
Programmable Input State: Used to provide user feedback for certain programmable input functions. A programmable output whose function is Programmable Input State will be active (i.e. conducting to ground) or inactive (i.e.
open) as follows depending on the function of the programmable input with which it is associated:
Function State when LED On State when LED Off
Analog In Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Analog Out Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Memory Preset: Associated memory is active Associated memory is not active
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Input-to-output(s) connection made Input - output(s) connection not made
Mute In: Associated input(s) not muted Associated input(s) muted
Mute Out: Associated output(s) not muted Associated output(s) muted
Room Combining Tab
If your application requires room combining, the Room Combining tab description in the AM16/12 Control Panel
Software section provides full setup information.
Miscellaneous Settings Tab
Adjustments or limitations to the front and rear panel gain controls, setup of the input qualification time and output
hold time, or configuration of the Expansion port mix-minus signal may be accomplished in the Miscellaneous
Settings tab. When multiple AM16/12s are used in a system, set the Internal NOM bus link to Expansion In/Out
option on all slave AM16/12s to No Link.
When all tabs are set appropriately for the application, the system is ready to use.
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