LECTROSONICS DCR822-A1B1, DCR822-B1C1, DCR822-941 Instruction Manual
DCR822
Compact Dual Channel Digital Receiver
DCR822-A1B1, DCR822-B1C1, DCR822-941
scan for informational
product video
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Quick Start Summary
The following checklist includes the minimum required
settings to start using the receiver.
• Connect power to the receiver or install batteries.
• Set the COMPAT (compatibility) mode for the transmitters to be used.
• Choose clean frequencies for your receiver channels using SmartTune or RF scan.
• Set transmitters on the matching frequencies (see
your transmitter manual) or use IR sync.
Fill in for your records:
Serial Number:
• Verify transmitters are set to the same compatibility
mode as the receiver (see your transmitter manual).
• Adjust transmitter input gain to match voice level
and mic position (see your transmitter manual).
• Select audio output type to match camera or mixer
input (analog or AES3 digital).
• Adjust receiver output level as needed for the
camera or mixer input level desired.
• Turn on transmitter RF signals (see your transmitter
manual).
Purchase Date:
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
www.lectrosonics.com
DCR822
2
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Table of Contents
General Technical Description ....................................4
Compatibility with microSDHC memory cards ..........6
Front Panel Controls and Functions ...........................7
MENU/SELECT Button ...............................................7
PWR/BACK Button ......................................................7
Up/Down Arrow Buttons ..............................................7
IR (infared) Port ........................................................... 7
microSDHC Memory Card Port ................................... 7
Antenna Port (2) .......................................................... 7
Rear Panel Features .....................................................7
TA3 Audio Output Jacks ..............................................7
Power Input Jack .........................................................7
USB Port .....................................................................7
Battery Compartment ..................................................7
LCD Main Window.........................................................8
Navigating the Menus ..................................................8
Main Window Screens ................................................. 8
Replacing the Batteries ................................................9
DCR822 LCD Menu Map ............................................. 10
Menu Item Descriptions ............................................. 13
RF Setup ...................................................................13
Using Diversity Modes ............................................14
Audio Setup ...............................................................15
Compat Mode ............................................................ 15
SD Card Settings.......................................................16
IR & Keys Menu .........................................................17
Encryption Key Management ....................................18
Settings Menu ...........................................................18
Antenna Mounting and Orientation ..........................19
Antenna/Block Reference Table ................................21
Installation and Operating Instructions ....................22
Scan Function/Finding Clear Frequencies ................22
Locking and Unlocking the Front Panel Controls .......22
Firmware Update ........................................................23
Diagnostics .................................................................24
Pilot Tone Bypass ......................................................24
Supplied Parts and Accessories ............................... 25
Optional Parts and Accessories ...............................25
Troubleshooting ..........................................................27
Specifications and Features ...................................... 28
Service and Repair .....................................................29
Returning Units for Repair ......................................... 29
Dual Channel Digital Receiver
Rio Rancho, NM
3
DCR822
General Technical Description
DCR822 Block Diagram
4
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Dual Channel Digital Receiver
The DCR822 digital 2-channel receiver is the true
successor to the venerable UCR411a - a dual-channel
package in the same size - and represents state-of-theart RF performance with Vector Diversity (an advanced
type of true diversity) and extremely robust front-end
architecture, bringing the highest level of RF and audio
performance to field and location production.
Extremely high Third Order Intercept (IP3) performance
of +15 dBm, 24-bit/48 kHz audio performance, and
AES-256 CTR mode encryption ensure that professionals in all audio disciplines have the tools needed to get
the job done, even in extremely tough environments.
On-board recording in .WAV (BWF) format via microSDHC card give this receiver unique possibilities for
different workflows.
Compatibility Modes
The DCR822 receiver was designed to operate with
Lectrosonics digital transmitters from the D2, DCH and
M2 series. The receiver is also backward compatible
with Digital Hybrid Wireless® transmitters including
those with NA Hybrid, NU Hybrid, JA HYBRID and EU
Hybrid modes.
Encryption
The DCR822 receiver features AES 256-bit, CTR mode
encryption, with 4 different key policies available.
Vector Diversity Reception
The DCR822 technology with Lectrosonics Vector Diversity (an advanced version of true diversity) minimizes
dropouts in situations where multi-path reflections can
cause serious problems. Traditional true diversity or
ratio diversity methods work well for FM and Hybrid systems but fall short of the ideal for today’s digital receivers. The DCR822’s Vector Diversity subsystem delivers
clean, artifact-free performance by combining the two
receiver signals via a unique phase-matching system
for maximum RF signal to noise.
RF Frequency Tracking Front-End and Mixer
In addition to the extremely high IP3 capability of the
receiver, to significantly reduce unwanted interference and intermodulation problems, the DCR822 has
a frequency selective front-end section that tracks and
tunes to the desired signal frequency and rejects unwanted interfering signals. The low noise, high current
RF amplifier was designed with feedback regulation for
stability and precise gain in order to handle stronger RF
signals without output overload. This produces a robust
front-end that is as selective as fixed single frequency
designs and is suitable for use in close proximity to
other receivers and transmitters commonly used in field
production bag systems.
Smart Noise Reduction (SmartNR™)
The DCR822 has been meticulously designed using
the best available low noise components and techniques. Nonetheless, the wide dynamic range of digital
and Hybrid transmission technology, combined with
flat response to 20 kHz, makes it possible to hear the
Rio Rancho, NM
-120 dBV noise floor in the transmitter’s mic preamp,
or the (usually) greater noise from the lav microphone
itself. (To put this in perspective, the noise generated
by the recommended 4k bias resistor of many electret
lavaliere mics is –119 dBV and the noise level of the
microphone’s electronics is much higher.) In order to reduce this noise and thus increase the effective dynamic
range of the system, the DCR822 is equipped with a
selectable Smart Noise Reduction algorithm, which removes hiss without sacrificing high frequency response.
The Smart Noise Reduction algorithm works by attenuating only those portions of the audio signal that fit
a statistical profile for randomness or “electronic hiss.”
Desired high frequency signals having some coherence
such as speech sibilance and tones are not affected.
The Smart Noise Reduction algorithm has three modes
- OFF/NORMAL/FULL - selectable from a user setup
screen. When switched OFF (the default setting for
digital compat modes) no noise reduction is performed
and complete transparency is preserved. All signals
presented to the transmitter’s front end, including any
faint microphone hiss, will be faithfully reproduced at the
receiver. When switched to NORMAL, (the factory default setting for Hybrid modes) enough noise reduction
is applied to remove most of the hiss from the mic preamp and some of the hiss from lavaliere microphones.
The noise reduction benefit is dramatic in this position,
yet the degree of transparency maintained is exceptional. When switched to FULL, enough noise reduction
is applied to remove most of the hiss from nearly any
signal source of reasonable quality, assuming levels
are set properly at the transmitter. This additional noise
reduction comes at the cost of some transparency for
low-level room noise, yet the algorithm remains undetectable under most circumstances.
Audio Output Level
A setup screen is provided for adjusting the audio output level in 1 dB increments from -50 to +7 dBu using
the front panel MENU/SEL, UP, and DOWN buttons.
Test Tone
To assist in matching the audio levels of equipment connected to the DCR822, a 1 kHz audio test tone, adjustable from -50 to +7 dBu in 1 dB increments, is available
at the outputs. If using AES3 outputs, the level is fixed
and cannot be adjusted.
Batteries
The DCR822 can operate on four disposable, 1.5VDC
AA Lithium batteries (recommended). Alkaline is not
advised.
Power Supply
The DCR822 may also be operated from an external DC
power source (see Specifications & Features section for
allowed voltages.) The receiver has a built-in Poly-Fuse
for protection. This fuse automatically resets if the power
supply is disconnected for about 15 sec. The power section also has protection circuits that prevent damage to
the receiver if a positive ground power source is applied.
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DCR822
OLED Display
The display has four primary “home” windows. Pressing
the Front Panel PWR/BACK button steps through each
of these windows. Pages 8 and 9 show illustrations and
features of each.
After power is turned off and back on again, the unit
defaults to the Main window and to the most recent
frequencies, audio levels, transmitter battery conditions,
and other user settings. These settings are retained
even if the batteries are removed. The display illumination can be set to time out in 5 seconds, 30 seconds, or
never.
Recorder Function
The DCR822 has a built in recording function for use
in situations where the absolute minimum equipment is
necessary, or as a backup to the main recorder system.
The recorder samples at 48kHz rate with a 24 bit
sample depth. The micro SDHC card also offers easy
firmware update capabilities without the need for a USB
cable or driver issues.
Clock Function
The DCR822 has a built-in calendar and clock that are
saved with power down. If the batteries are removed
from the unit, the DCR822 “remembers” where it left off
and resumes time and date counts from that point.
ONLY microSDHC memory cards should be used. They
are available in capacities from 4GB to 32GB. Look for
the Speed Class 10 cards (as indicated by a C wrapped
around the number 10), or the UHS Speed Class I cards
(as indicated by the numeral 1 inside a U symbol). Also
note the microSDHC Logo.
If you are switching to a new brand or source of card,
we always suggest testing first before using the card on
a critical application.
The following markings will appear on compatible
memory cards. One or all of the markings will appear on
the card housing and the packaging.
Speed Class 10
UHS Speed Class 1
UHS Speed Class I
Stand-alone
Power Off
When the Front Panel Power/Back button is pressed
for several seconds, the audio output is instantly muted
(squelched) and the message “POWERING OFF...” is
displayed briefly before the receiver switches off.
Compatibility with
microSDHC memory cards
Please note that the DCR822 is designed for use with
microSDHC memory cards. There are several types of
SD card standards (as of this writing) based on capacity
(storage in GB).
SDSC: standard capacity, up to and including 2 GB –
DO NOT USE!
SDHC: high capacity, more than 2 GB and up to and
including 32 GB – USE THIS TYPE.
SDXC: extended capacity, more than 32 GB and up to
and including 2 TB – DO NOT USE!
SDUC: extended capacity, more than 2TB and up to
and including 128 TB – DO NOT USE!
The larger XC and UC cards use a different formatting
method and bus structure and are NOT compatible with
the recorder. These are typically used with later generation video systems and cameras for image applications
(video and high resolution, high speed photography).
UHS Speed Class I
Accompanying
microSDHC logo
microSDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC
NOTE: The default format for a card formatted on a
computer is always DATA. DATA format is needed
when downloading files for Firmware updates or
for saving frequency groups. When formatting a
card in the DCR822 for audio applications, the
DCR822 will ask if you are formatting for audio, in
which case, any files on the card will be lost.
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
Front Panel Controls and Functions
Audio
+
Audio
-
MENU/SEL Button
The MENU button accesses the available menus and
selects the desired setting.
PWR/BACK Button
The PWR/BACK button is used to turn the receiver on
and off. When browsing menus and making changes to
settings, press PWR/BACK to return to previous menu.
Up/Down Arrow Buttons
The UP/DOWN buttons are used to scroll or input the
various options within each menu selection.
IR (infrared) Port
Settings can be transferred between transmitter and
receiver or receiver and receiver.
microSDHC Memory Card Port
microSDHC memory
Antenna port
Dual Channel Digital Receiver
IR (infrared) port
card port
Antenna port
Antenna Port (2)
Rear Panel Features
TA3 Audio Output Jacks
The DCR822 uses a standard TA3 configuration with
pin 2 “positive.” The audio output is balanced but not
floating, so an unbalanced signal is available using pin
1 as ground and pin 2 as signal, leaving pin 3 open
(audio level will be 6 dB lower than balanced).
USB Port
The microB USB port can be used to connect the
DCR822 to the Lectrosonics Wireless Designer software (pending; capability will be built into a future
firmware update).
Battery Compartment
installed as marked on
the side panel of the
receiver.
The battery door is hinged and remains attached to the
housing when open. The specially-designed latch snaps
and locks into place for security when closed.
Four AA batteries are
Power Input Jack
The power input jack can accept 9-17 VDC - the center
pin is positive and sleeve is ground. The input is diode
protected to prevent damage if the power is applied
with reversed polarity, and the unit will not work until the
reversed polarity condition is corrected.
Rio Rancho, NM
Battery
Compartment
USB Port
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DCR822
LCD Main Window
MENU/SEL
button
Antenna
Status
CH1
Frequency
Transmitter 1
Battery Status
CH2
Frequency
SD Card Slot
PWR/BACK
button
UP/DOWN
buttons
IR Port
Navigating the Menus
From the Main Window, press MENU/SEL to enter the
menu, then navigate with the UP and DOWN arrows to
highlight the desired setup item. Press MENU/SEL to
enter the setup screen for that item. Refer to the menu
map on pages 10-12.
Main Window Screens
The Main Window displays information concerning the
RF levels at each antenna per channel, audio modulation levels, the condition of the Pilot Tone (Hybrid) or
Link (digital), and battery conditions for both the receiver and the associated transmitters. It is also the access
portal to menu selections for setting up the receiver
and searching for clear frequency channels.(See Menu
Selections from Main window and Frequency Scan
Mode). The PWR/BACK button will cycle the display
through four different, additional screen configurations,
containing various combinations of transmitter names,
RF signal strength meters and audio meters, depending
on user preference.
• Receiver Battery icon changes to a plug icon
when external power is supplied.
• SD Card Status: No card, card error, data card,
stopped (ready to record), recording.
• Antenna Icons: Status of the vector diversity system.
• Transmiter Battery Status Icons: Appear when
the receiver’s battery status is known and can take
on different appearances, depending on user settings.
• RF Signal Strength Strip Charts: RF signal
strength indicators.
• Channel Status Indicator: Pilot tone, link and
encryption system status.
• Keypad Shortcut: Can start or stop recording from
the Main Window: MENU+UP to begin recording
and MENU+DOWN to stop recording.
SD Card
Status
(recording
stopped)
Antenna
Status
SD Card
Status
(recording)
Frequency
LINK
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
Audio Level
Strip Charts
CH1
Name
LINK
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
Audio Level
CH1
Frequency
537.600
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
537.600
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
CH2
Audio Level
RF Signal
Transmitter 1
Battery Status
RF Signal
Strip Charts
CH1
Audio Level
CH2
LINK
Plug (or battery)
Icon
CH2
Name
LINK
LINK
LINK
Plug (or battery)
Icon
Channel
Status
Indicator
Transmitter 2
Battery Status
Channel
Status
indicator
Transmitter 2
Battery Status
Channel
Status
indicator
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
CH2
Name
CH1
Name
Tx1
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
Tx2
D
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
CH1
Audio Level
LINK
LINK
Dual Channel Digital Receiver
Replacing the Batteries
Lift the battery door to unlatch, push slightly forward
and open it.
Observe the battery orientation markings on the side of
the unit.
Channel
Status
indicator
SD Card
Status
(data
card)
NOTE: If Link Indicator is flashing, this indicates
that the key or compat mode is invalid.
CH2
Audio Level
Plug (or battery)
Icon
Depress the batteries slightly to allow the door to close,
then press with down firmly while pushing back towards
the DC connector to latch the door closed. The battery
contacts are spring loaded to maintain constant pressure. The door will snap into place for security when it is
fully closed.
Slide back to latch
Press
down
CAUTION: Be sure to remove batteries as soon
as possible after they are depleted.
Rio Rancho, NM
9
DCR822
DCR822 LCD Menu Map
The menus presented on the LCD are arranged in a straightforward manner, with those that are likely to be used
more often located at the top of the tree.
Main Menu Tree
Scroll options with arrow buttons
RF Setup
Smart Tune
Frequency
Smart Tune
Tune Rx 1
Frequency 1
607.900
Grp u
Use arrow buttons to scroll
Select Freq or Grp with arrow buttons
through range options
to toggle.
Tx1 Range?
A1B1
to
select.
Searching...
470.600
Tuned Rx 1
525.100
Selects an open frequency.
Choose Down Arrow to Sync.
to repeat and tune RX 2
Sync!
* After adding a group,
navigate to SD Card,
then Save Group,
then Save to Card to
share groups with other
units.
* Pilot Tone Bypass
is only available in
Hybrid Compat Modes
Audio Setup
* Option will be fixed
if Frequency Diversity
is chosen.
Scan
Clear Scan
Group Edit
Diversity
PilotBypass
Audio Level
Output Type
Routing
Smart NR
Scanning... 1
607.000
Scan
data
CLEARED
Group Edit u
(empty)
MENU + å to ADD
MENU + ã to DEL
Diversity
Vector
PilotBypass
OFF
ON
Audio Level
[ AES] +1
MENU+å 1ktone
|-60 |-40 |-20 0|
Output Type
AES3 ANLG
Routing
RX1: ANLG1
RX2: ANLG2
Smart NR
NORM
to pause scan
to select
channel.
After scan clears it automatically
reverts to back the main menu tree.
Use arrows to scroll and add
freq range and groups. Use
MENU+UP to
save; MENU+
DOWN to
delete.
Scroll options with arrow buttons. If you choose Frequency,
the system will ask you to Calibrate first.
PWR
BACK
to select.
Select option with arrow buttons
PWR
to select.
BACK
Select values with arrow buttons
to toggle.
Select option with arrow buttons
PWR
to toggle.
BACK
Select option with arrow buttons
PWR
to toggle.
BACK
Select option with arrow buttons
PWR
to toggle.
BACK
Press both together
to zoom view
MENU+UP to output audio tone
for calibration.
While paused, use UP or Down arrows
to tune selected receiver
* Option not available
if Frequency Diversity
is chosen.
CompatMode
SD Card
10
Talkback
Polarity
CompatMode 1
D2
Files
Takes
Record
Talkback 1
ON
Polarity
Pos. Neg.
Select option with arrow buttons
PWR
to toggle.
BACK
Select option with arrow buttons
to toggle.
Select option with arrow buttons
to toggle.
Files
0002.WAV
0003.WAV
Takes
S01 T002
S02 T003
Scroll with arrow buttons
to select.
Scroll with arrow buttons
to select.
Recording
to stop/save.
0003 .WAV
Date 6/15
LTime 09:53
Len 00:10:25
S02 T003
Date 6/15
LTime 09:53
Len 00:10:25
LECTROSONICS, INC.
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