Lectrosonics VR Field User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Modular Receiver System with 230 MHz Bandwidth
Fill in for your records:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Includes three versions:
• Wideband (blocks 21 through 29)
• Wideband Low (blocks 470 through 26)
• Wideband High (blocks 25 through 29)
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VR Field Wideband Receiver
2
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Table of Contents
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................................................................5
Unpacking the unit ................................................................................................................................................................................5
Controls and Functions .........................................................................................................................................................................6
Front Panel ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Rear Panel ............................................................................................................................................................................................7
Hardware Installation .............................................................................................................................................................................8
Installing/Removing Receiver Modules .................................................................................................................................................8
Installing the VR Field System ..............................................................................................................................................................8
Initial Startup ........................................................................................................................................................................................10
Navigating the LCD Menus and Screens ............................................................................................................................................11
Resetting to Factory Defaults ..............................................................................................................................................................12
System Setup with the LCD .................................................................................................................................................................12
Selecting Compatibility Modes ............................................................................................................................................................12
Selecting the Noise Reduction Mode ..................................................................................................................................................12
Selecting Diversity Modes ...................................................................................................................................................................13
Selecting the Tuning Mode .................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Finding Clear Frequencies with SmartTune ........................................................................................................................................15
Finding Clear ChannelsUsing Full Spectrum Scan ............................................................................................................................. 15
Adjusting Audio Output Levels ............................................................................................................................................................ 16
Selecting Audio Phase ........................................................................................................................................................................17
Selecting Transmitter Battery Status Monitoring Mode .......................................................................................................................17
Locking Out the Front Panel Controls .................................................................................................................................................18
Installing LecNet2
Setting Up the Venue Receiver Using VRpanel ..................................................................................................................................22
Opening VRpanel with USB Port ........................................................................................................................................................22
Opening VRpanel with a COM Port ....................................................................................................................................................22
VRpanel Main Window ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Main Window Top Menu Items ............................................................................................................................................................23
Popup Menu Items ..............................................................................................................................................................................23
Antenna Use and Placement ...............................................................................................................................................................25
Powering Remote RF Amplifiers ......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Pre-coordinated Frequencies ..............................................................................................................................................................26
Compatible Frequency Table ...............................................................................................................................................................26
Compatibility Diagram .........................................................................................................................................................................27
Diagnostics ...........................................................................................................................................................................................28
Multi-channel System Checkout..........................................................................................................................................................28
Pilot Tone Bypass ................................................................................................................................................................................28
Accessories and Common Replacement Parts .................................................................................................................................29
Remote Antennas ...............................................................................................................................................................................29
Coaxial Cable ......................................................................................................................................................................................29
Coaxial RF Amplifier ...........................................................................................................................................................................29
Common Replacement Parts ..............................................................................................................................................................29
Service and Repair ...............................................................................................................................................................................30
Returning Units for Repair ..................................................................................................................................................................30
Software and USB Driver ...................................................................................................................................19
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Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp.
Vista is a trademark of Microsoft Corp.
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VR Field Wideband Receiver
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equip­ment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio com­munications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television recep­tion, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encour­aged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorientorrelocatethereceivingantenna
• Increasetheseparationbetweentheequipmentandreceiver
• Connecttheequipmentintoanoutletonacircuitdifferentfromthatwhichthereceiv-
er is connected
• Consultthedealeroranexperiencedradio/TVtechnicianforhelp
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by Lectrosonics, Inc. could void the user’s authority to operate it.
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
Introduction
Introduction
The Venue Wideband receiver is a modular rack mount design for use with a wide variety of transmitters from Lectrosonics and other manufacturers. Designed for maximum versatility and performance, the wideband design offers the flexibility needed in today’s changing and increasingly congested RF environments.
A Venue receiver is a “system” that consists of a master unit and up to six receiver modules. Two different types of receiver modules are available. The standard module (VRS) is an excellent choice for fixed installations where fairly clear RF spectrum is available. The tracking mod­ule (VRT) is a more costly alternative, but its tracking front-end makes it the better choice for use in congest­ed RF environments. VRpanel software is included to simplify setup and monitoring.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
A basic VR Field System package includes:
1 DCR15/1A6U Power Supply w/21499 Power Cord
1 MC65 1/4” TRS (stereo) plug to 3.5mm TRS
(stereo) plug; 10 ft. long
1 P1214 Battery Slot Cover
1 P1215 Battery Rain Shroud
1 21529-1 DB9-TRS stereo mini cable (BLACK) for
Windows® computer system
1 21710-1 DB9-TRS stereo mini cable (RED) for
AMX or Crestron control system
1 21713 USB cable
6 35908 Stick-on Battery Handles
This guide covers the essential steps and settings needed to get a Venue system up and running. It covers the hardware installation, configuration using the LCD on the master unit, setting up a USB port on the com­puter and installing the VRpanel software.
LecNet2 software runs under Microsoft Windows® XP, VistaTM and Windows 7 operating systems.* An online Help in the software includes a listing of commands used to control the Venue through the serial ports.
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
1 VRFIELD Instruction Manual
1 CD-ROM with LecNet2™ software and
documentation in Adobe Acrobat PDF files
NOTE: Receiver modules sold separately. NP type battery sold by other manufacturers.
5
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Controls and Functions
Front Panel
POWER Switch
The Venue receiver master unit (VRM) serves as a “host assembly” for up to six receiver modules. The standard module (VRS) and tracking module (VRT) can be mixed and matched in the assembly in any combina­tion to suit the needs of various applications.
The VRM front panel provides an LCD for system setup, monitoring and troubleshooting. During normal opera­tion, the LCD shows RF and audio levels, diversity status, pilot tone status (where applicable) and transmit­ter battery status (in certain modes) for all six receivers at the same time. Individual screens for each receiver provide additional information and adjustments.
A built-in analyzer scans the tunable spectrum of the receiver to assist in finding clear operating frequencies. The spectrum scan data is presented in a graphical format on the LCD.
Function Button
(labeled by the LCD)
BACK Button
POWER Button
Turns the power on and off. A brief press also clears the spectrum scan data after the spectrum analyzer has been used. Press and hold the button for a few seconds to turn the unit off.
Function Button
Used for various functions in selected Setup Screens as labeled on the LCD.
PUSH FOR
MENU/SELECT
Rotary Control
Headphone
LEVEL Control
PHONES Jack
Receiver Select
Buttons
Battery
Compartment
Receiver Select Buttons
The six Receiver Select Buttons are used to select indi­vidual installed receiver modules, for monitoring via the PHONES jack and for setup and adjustment.
PUSH FOR MENU/SELECT Rotary Control
This control, called the MENU/SELECT control for short, is a pushbutton switch and rotary knob used for navigating and selecting setup menus and screens, and for selecting parameters within the setup screens.
PHONES Jack and LEVEL Control
The LEVEL control is used to adjust the output level of the front panel PHONES jack for individual chan­nel monitoring. It does not affect the output levels at the rear panel XLR jacks. Only the audio from a single receiver (or a diversity pair) selected via the Receiver Select Buttons will be present at this jack.
The PHONES jack can also used as an audio output for recording when using the Walk Test Recorder.
NOTE: An explanation of the Walk Test Recorder is presented in the section entitled Setting Up the Venue Receiver Using VRpanel.
BACK Button
The Back Button is used to return to the previous menu or setup screen.
LCD Screen
The LCD is a backlit, graphics-type Liquid Crystal Dis­play used to set up and monitor system operation.
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
Rear Panel
Receiver Modules 4-6
(under lower cover)
Balanced Audio
Outputs 4-6
Power Input
Port
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Antenna Inputs
Multicoupler Outputs
Balanced Audio
Outputs 1-3
USB PortRS-232
Receiver Modules 1-3
(under lower cover)
The rear panel provides six balanced XLR audio out­puts, antenna inputs, “loop thru” antenna outputs from an internal multicoupler, a power jack with a locking connector, plus USB and RS-232 serial ports for setup and control.
Receiver Modules
Up to six receiver modules can be installed in each Venue receiver rack mount chassis. Spring tensioned clips retain the receiver modules to maintain secure connections with the host assembly.
XLR Audio Output Jacks
Six balanced XLR audio output jacks connect the Venue receiver to external equipment. By default, pin 2 is au­dio pos (+). The polarity of each output can be reversed in the LCD setup menus or with the software.
Power Input Jack
The receiver is powered from +10 VDC to +18 VDC, with the center pin of the connector positive (+). The input is diode protected to prevent damage if the power is accidentally applied with reversed polarity.
RS-232 Port
A serial RS-232 interface is provided for setup and control of the Venue System from computers or other devices using industry standard RS-232 communication links.
Antenna Input Jacks
The two outermost BNC connectors are provided for use with right-angle whip antennas, cables from remote antennas, or cables from another Venue receiver. DC voltage can be supplied on these connectors from an internal source to power remote RF amplifiers. The power is enabled with jumpers on the circuit board. See the section on Antenna Use and Placement for details.
Multicoupler Output Jacks
The built-in antenna multicoupler provides RF distribu­tion for the six receiver modules and a “loop thru” output at the same level to deliver the RF signal to another Venue receiver. The second receiver can then feed a third receiver and so on, to create a “stack” that oper­ates with a single pair of antennas. The result is very efficient use of rack space and a cost savings by not having to purchase a separate antenna multicoupler.
Note: Venue receivers with a 50 MHz bandwidth must be on the same frequency block to use the antenna loop through.
USB Port
Standard USB Version 1.1 port for setup and control of the receiver from computer systems using Windows® 2000, XP or VistaTM operating systems.
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VR Field Wideband Receiver
Hardware Installation
Installing/Removing Receiver Modules
Up to six Receiver Modules can be installed in a VRF chassis. These modules may be installed at the factory or added later.
Although the VR Field System is quite flexible, any com­bination of Receiver Modules installed must be within the frequency block range of the VRF chassis. The frequency block range of the VRF chassis is displayed during the PowerUp Sequence.
Frequency Block Range
Bottom View of the Chassis
VRF Front Panel
VRF Rear Panel
Removing Receiver Modules
1. Ensure the VR Field System is turned off and the power source has been disconnected.
Installing Receiver Modules
1. Ensure the VR Field System is turned off and the power source has been disconnected. Slide the Receiver Module Connector firmly onto the Receiv­er Module Tab.
Caution: Do not force the Receiver Module onto the Receiver Module Tab. If the module does not seat properly, look to see if its position is a little off. Excessive force may damage the module’s connector or the Receiver Module Tab.
2. Install a Receiver Module Retaining Clip between the rear of the Receiver Module and the Module Tab. Ensure this clip is firmly snapped into place.
Receiver Modules
2. Remove the Retaining Clip and slide the module
outward off the connecting tab and remove it from the chassis.
Installing the VR Field System
The VR Field Receiver is designed for portable use, as in a bag system.
1. Position the unit for easy access to the panel con­trols and connections. There are no special ventila­tion requirements.
2. Connect the antennas (or antenna cables if remote antennas are being used) to the antenna input con­nectors on the rear panel of the VRF.
Receiver Module
Retaining Clips
8
Receiver Module Tabs
Receiver Module
Connectors
Antenna
Inputs
Coaxial Cables
3. For multiple unit installations, connect coaxial patch
cables from the Antenna A and B OUT jacks on the rear panel of the first unit to the Antenna A and B IN jacks on the second unit. An additional unit can be connected to the second unit in the same manner.
Note: All units connected in this manner must be on the same
frequency block.
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Typical Lectrosonics
Antenna Combinations
ALP Series
A500RA
NOTE: Frequencies of the receiver modules must be within the range of whip antennas and the SNA600 dipole. The ALP Series antennas are wideband designs that cover the entire range.
(Not Supplied)
Audio Output Wiring Diagrams
SNA600
Typical USB Hookup for Single VR Field System
Coaxial
Patch Cables
Antenna Inputs
4. Insert a charged battery into the front panel, or plug
the VR Field power supply into a suitable outlet and plug the power connector into the Power Input Jack (unscrew the power connector that goes to the battery). Repeat for each VR Field System being installed.
5. Turn down the audio inputs on all the externally connected equipment, then connect them to the ap­propriate Audio Output XLR Jacks.
6. If the VR Field System is to be set up using a com­puter system using a USB interface, connect a USB cable between the USB connector on the rear panel of the VRF and the computer system or a USB hub connected to the computer system.
7. Refer to “Setting Up the VR Field System via the USB Port”.
RS-232 Port USB Port on VR Field
System Rear Panel
USB Port on
Computer System
Typical USB Hookup for Multiple VR Field Systems
ANTENNA A
2
1
3
6
LINK 3
2
1
3
6
LINK 3
10-18VDC
2
2
1
1
3
3
5
4
RS-232
10-18VDC
2
2
1
1
3
3
5
4
RS-232
IN
ANTENNA A
IN
ANTENNA B
OUT
OUT
LINK 2
2
2
1
USB
IN
3
321
2
1
1
3
3
LINK 1
USB Port
on VR FIeld
System Rear
Panel
ANTENNA B
OUT
OUT
LINK 2
2
2
1
USB
IN
3
321
2
1
1
3
3
LINK 1
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
Audio Output XLR Jacks
USB Hub
USB Port on
Computer
System
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VR Field Wideband Receiver
Initial Startup
When the Venue receiver is first powered up the LCD will show the firmware revision and the tuning range of the host assembly. The wideband version of the VRM covers the entire 230 MHz bandwidth of frequency blocks 21 through 29.
As the boot sequence continues, the display will switch to an overview of all six receiver channels. In this ex­ample, six receiver modules are installed but no trans­mitters are turned on. In this case the “P” will be blinking since no pilot tone is detected.
The wideband Venue receiver is different than the 50 MHz version in that the receiver modules are detected through a manual process rather than automatically at boot up. Press the MENU/SELECT control and rotate it to select “Detect” on the menu.
The display then switches to the overview of all six channels.
Any slot that is not occupied by a module will leave a blank space in the overview display.
If a module in any position has been removed, changed or added since the last use, the LCD will flash a mes­sage advising that the Detect process needs to be run again.
In normal operation with all six channels running, the overview display will include:
• Audiolevel  • RFlevel  • Diversityantennaphaseactivity  • Pilottonestatus  • Transmitterbatterystatus
Audio level
Pilot tone status
Press the MENU/SELECT control to launch the detec­tion process.
It takes about 45 seconds to detect all the modules and update the memory in the host assembly. Once com­pleted, the LCD will briefly display the results showing the frequencies of the installed modules.
If a slot is not occupied by a module, the display will place an “X” in that position.
RF level Transmitter
battery status
Once the initial startup is complete, go to the next section of this manual for details on setup and configuration options.
Diversity activity
(in Switched mode)
To power off the unit, press and hold the red power switch for several seconds. The LCD will display a mes­sage briefly then power down.
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
Navigating the LCD Menus and Screens
Front panel controls provide access to screens and menus for setup. The Function Button, Back Button, Re­ceiver Select buttons and the MENU/SELECT control are used to make selections and adjust parameters.
Function Button (labeled by the LCD)
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
In a setup screen such as the LockSet example shown here, up/down arrows prompt you to change the setting by rotating the MENU/SELECT control.
Up/Down
Arrows
When the desired setting or value is displayed, press the MENU/SELECT control or BACK button to return to the previous menu.
Back Button Receiver Select
Buttons 1-6
MENU/SELECT
Control
The overview screen displays a summary of all six channels, as shown above. This is a good starting point for navigating to any menu or setup screen. Pressing the BACK button repeatedly from any menu or screen will eventually return to this overview screen.
From the overview screen, pressing one of the six Receiver Select Buttons will switch to the detail screen for the associated receiver module to display all current settings, levels and status.
Pilot Tone
Monitoring Status
Receiver Module
Location
RF Signal
Strength
Antenna Phase
Transmitter
Battery Gauge
Audio Level Meter
Transmitter Frequency Select Switch Settings
Operating
Frequency
Tuning Mode
TV Channel
Pressing the Receiver Select Button again will switch to the receiver module information screen to show the basic setup.
Selecting SetUpRx (set up receiver) in the TopMenu will take you to another menu where all settings for the receiver modules can be made.
Select an item with the MENU/SELECT control and press the control to open the setup screen (“Level” in this example).
Setup screens for the receiver modules display the settings for the selected module and allow immediate access to all modules by pressing the Receiver Select Buttons. Receiver module 1 (Rx1) is selected in this example with its output level set at -3 dBu.
Press the BACK button twice to return to the overview screen.
From the overview screen, press the MENU/SELECT control to open the TopMenu, rotate the control to select an item, then press the control to enter the setup screen for that item.
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Function
Button
If another option is available, it will appear in the left hand section of the LCD (“TONE” in this example). Press the Function Button to select and deselect this option with repeated presses. The display will highlight the option when it is selected.
NOTE: Settings take effect immediately and are stored until changed again. Pilot Tone Bypass is different in that it resets to the default value when the power is cycled.
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VR Field Wideband Receiver
Resetting to Factory Defaults
Resetting to Factory Defaults can be a time saver for setting up the system. Start with the power turned off, then hold Receiver Select Buttons 5 and 6 while power­ing up the system.
Six compatibility modes are available to match various transmitter types. In this example, the Digital Hybrid compatibility mode is selected for receiver module 1.
Press the Receiver Select button for each module and rotate the MENU/SELECT control to select the mode.
POWER Switch
The Factory Default Settings are:
Level
Level
Phase
TxBatt
SmartNR
Compat
Tuning
DivMode
LockSet
RxCh
+00 dBu
+00 dBu
NORMAL
9V ALK
NORMAL
Dig. Hybrid
NORMAL MODE
Switched
NOT LOCKED
8, 0
Receiver Select
Buttons 5 and 6
System Setup with the LCD
It is generally best to complete these steps in the se­quence shown.
• Selectcompatibilitymodes
• SelectSmartNoiseReductionmode
(for Digital Hybrid Compat Mode only)
• Selectdiversitymodes
• Findclearchannelsandsettransmittersto
match the receivers
• Adjustaudiooutputlevel
• Selectaudiosignalphase
• Selecttransmitterbatterymonitoringmode
• Controlpanellockout
Selecting Compatibility Modes
Navigate to the Compat setup screen.
The following modes are available:
Compat Setup Mode
Dig. Hybrid Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid (HYB)
Mode 3 Mode 3 (M.3) (call for details)
200 Series Lectrosonics 200 Series (200)
100 Series Lectrosonics 100 Series (100)
IFB Lectrosonics IFB Series (IFB)
Mode 6 Mode 6 (M.6) (call for details)
Mode 7 Mode 7 (M.7) (call for details)
Shortcut: Press and hold the Receiver Select button under the selected module (module 1 in the example above) then press the buttons under the other modules that are to be set to the same mode.
If you are using Digital Hybrid transmitters, set them and the matching receiver modules to the Dig. Hybrid mode for best performance.
Description
Selecting the Noise Reduction Mode
When the Compat Mode is set to Digital Hybrid, three settings are available that affect the high frequency audio content and noise:
• NORMAL(factory default) applies a moderate amount of noise reduction, dramatically reducing hiss with virtually no discernible side effects.
• FULL applies more aggressive noise reduction with transparency superior to the noise reduction system used for many years in the earlier Lectrosonics wide deviation analog systems.
• OFF applies no noise reduction for complete trans­parency.
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Navigate to the SmartNR setup screen.
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
In this mode the signals from both antennas are com­bined into a single receiver module, with the phase of one of them inverted back and forth so that they always add to one another. The process reduces dropouts and provides a stronger signal than a single antenna.
Select the receiver module with Receiver Select Button and rotate the MENU/SELECT control to the desired mode. Listen to the audio signal as you rotate the knob and select the mode that best fits the situation.
Note: If the selected Receiver Module is part of a ratio or frequency diversity pair, the mode will automatically be set for both receiver modules in the pair.
When any Compat Mode other than Dig. Hybrid is se­lected, FIXED will automatically be selected.
In this example, receiver modules 4, 5 and 6 are set to the FIXED mode with no adjustment available.
Selecting Diversity Modes
Navigate to the DivMode setup screen.
Ratio Diversity (OptiBlend
TM
)
Ratio diversity uses two adjacent receiver modules to pick up a single transmitter. The audio outputs of the modules are blended (mixed) together, using more or less audio from each module based upon which module has the stronger RF signal.
Ratio diversity anticipates dropouts before they occur, rather than waiting until the RF signal level is very weak and on the verge of noise or dropout. The comparison of the RF signal levels in the modules begins when the RF level is still high, so the circuit can blend in more audio from the module with the stronger signal before the signal decays enough to cause noise.
The blending action is smooth and seamless to avoid any audible artifacts that can occur with abrupt switch­ing. Most of the time both receiver modules have good signals, so the audio is blended equally, which improves the signal to noise ratio by 3 dB.
The blended audio appears at the rear panel XLR out­puts of both modules.
Three diversity reception modes are available:
• Switched Diversity uses one receiver module per audio channel.
• Ratio Diversity (OptiBlendTM) uses two receiver modules per audio channel.
• Frequency Diversity uses two receiver modules and two transmitters per audio channel.
Press the Receiver Select Buttons to enter the setup screens for the receiver modules.
Switched Diversity
Frequency Diversity
Frequency Diversity differs from the other two diversity modes in that it uses two receiver modules and two transmitters operating on different frequencies. The pur­pose of this mode is to have redundancy in the system for critical productions, such as live television, to guard against failures caused by dead batteries and multipath dropouts. The blending process to combine the audio from the receiver modules is the same as that used for OptiBlend ratio diversity.
Frequency Diversity requires that the levels of the two audio channels to be closely matched to avoid au­dible level changes as the blending action takes place. In order for this blending to work properly, a special test mode helps to get the transmitter levels exactly matched. The test mode is automatically activated when the DivMode Setup Screen is active and Frequency Diversity is selected, as shown in the LCD photo above.
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13
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Note: In Frequency Diversity mode, both transmitters must be the same type (usually the same model). The microphones must also be placed very close together to minimize comb filtering.
To prepare for operation in the Frequency Diversity mode, make the following adjustments:
1. Set up the transmitters according to their instruc­tions. Plug a set of headphones into the front panel PHONES jack to monitor the blended output. You can also monitor the output from the rear panel XLR jack for either module in the pair.
2. While listening to the blended output, adjust the gain control on one of the transmitters so that the audio loudness drops way down (nulls) as the two channels cancel each other. If the output does not null, then reset the transmitter input gain control back to where it was and press the Function button on the front panel next to the word INVT on the LCD. This will invert the phase of the audio on the second module so it will null properly.
NORMAL MODE is the standard Lectrosonics mode with 256 frequencies in 100 kHz steps. A unique pilot tone is present for each frequency.
FINE MODE allows tuning to 1024 frequencies in 25 kHz steps for compatibility with older and non­Lectrosonics transmitters. Pilot tone frequency is set to the next lower even 100kHz frequency. For example,
650.000, 650.025, 650.050 and 650.075 all use the same pilot tone frequency.
INVT shown in Off Position
Depending on how microphones are wired and
other vagaries, either position of the INVT toggle switch might achieve the null. Keep toggling the switch until the null is found, adjust the level for the deepest null. Be sure to press INVT one more
time to put the audio from the two channels back in phase for normal operation.
Selecting the Tuning Mode
Pre-coordinated tuning groups are stored in memory to simplify frequency coordination. The groups are labeled GROUP a, b, c and d on the LCD, with eight frequen­cies stored in each one. Refer to the section near the back of this manual entitled Pre-coordinated Frequen­cies for details on compatibility and using these groups.
CUSTOM MODE is a special mode used to store up to 50 frequencies per block in 25 kHz steps. Frequencies are stored in memory in a “table” with positions num­bered 0 through 49. The pilot tone frequency is defined by the position of each frequency in the table.
The Receiver Detail window will indicate the selected mode and frequency information. In the FINE mode transmitter switch settings will be shown when the frequency is on an even 100 kHz step. In the CUSTOM mode the position of the frequency in the table of 50 stored in memory will be shown.
FINE mode on
100kHz step;
Tx switch
settings shown
FINE mode NOT
100kHz step;
Tx switch
settings not
shown
Select a
through d
Three additional modes are also available to enable compatibility with non-standard transmitters and storing custom frequency sets. Navigate to the Tuning menu and press the MENU/SELECT control.
14
CUSTOM mode;
memory
position shown
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Finding Clear Frequencies with SmartTune
SmartTune simplifies setup by scanning the tuning range of the receiver and automatically setting a re­ceiver module to a clear frequency. A receiver module is selected, a scan is completed and the frequency is set for that module. A prompt appears, reminding you to turn on a transmitter on the newly selected frequency, and the procedure continues until all modules have been tuned to clear frequencies.
NOTE: SmartTune is only available using the LCD and front panel controls. It is not implemented in the software.
1. Navigate to the SmrtTun setup screen and press the MENU/SELECT control.
In most cases the system will be ready to use after SmartTune has been run on all modules, however, it’s a good idea to perform a system checkout to verify the compatibility of the frequencies selected. Refer to the section entitled Diagnostics near the back of this manual for details.
Finding Clear Channels with Tuning Groups a through d
Groups “a” though “d” contain 8 frequencies each that can be used together in certain combinations. In brief, “a” and “b” are compatible with each and “c” and “d” are compatible with each. Other combinations require testing. Refer to the section entitled Pre-coordinated Frequencies for details on using these groups.
To use groups a through d, complete the following steps:
1. Navigate to the Tuning setup screen.
2. Press the Receiver Select Button for the module you wish to tune and scanning will begin.
When the full spectrum has been scanned, the cur-
sor will stop moving and blink briefly on the newly selected frequency briefly.
3. The display will then switch back to the receiver se­lection screen and ask if you want to tune another module.
4. If you select Yes the display will remind you to turn on the transmitter for the receiver you just tuned.
2. Select each module in turn with the Receiver Select Buttons and select the desired tuning group. Then return to the overview screen.
3. Turn transmitters off. From the overview screen, open the receiver detail screen for each module and rotate the MENU/SELECT control to select a frequency where no RF signal is indicated.
Finding Clear Channels Using Full Spectrum Scan
In crowded RF environments, it may not be possible to find enough clear channels using a Tuning Group. The internal spectrum scanner can then be used to find clear channels manually across the entire tuning range of the receiver in 100 kHz steps.
1. Turn off all transmitters and set all receiver modules to the NORMAL tuning mode (not a tuning group).
2. Select Scan from the TopMenu and press the MENU/SELECT control.
When the transmitter is turned on and detected, the
display will return to receiver selection (Step 2) and prompt you to select the next receiver.
5, Repeat steps 2 through 4 for all receiver modules
that will be used.
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
15
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Select the receiver module to use for scanning and
press MENU/SELECT. The scanning begins auto­matically.
3. Allow the scanner to continue sweeping through the tuning range several times, then press the Function button to enter “Stop Mode.”
Function
Button
4. With the scanning stopped, rotate the MENU/ SELECT control to adjust the frequency to clear spectrum. Press the Function Button to ZOOM to a close up view of the scan results.
Cursor blinks
NOTE: In Ratio Diversity and Frequency Diversity modes, the receiver modules are paired 1-2, 3-4, 5-6. Setting the audio level output on either module in the pair, sets the audio output to the same level on both of them.
1. Navigate to the Level setup screen.
2. Select each receiver one at a time with the buttons under the LCD and rotate the knob to adjust the output to the desired level.
Function
Selected Receiver
Button
Output Level
Function
Button
Strong InterferenceClear Spectrum
5. Press the BACK button to return to the “Stop Mode.”
NOTE: At any point in the Stop or Zoom screens, you can select any module on the same block to tune.
6. Press the BACK button to return the previous menu to select the next receiver to use for scanning.
7 . Continue from step 2 to scan all blocks that are
installed.
8. Conduct a system checkout with the procedure explained in the section entitled Diagnostics.
Adjusting Audio Output Levels
The audio output levels at the rear panel XLR jacks are software controlled. (The front panel LEVEL knob af­fects the PHONES output only.)
The optimum output level will provide the highest level signal possible without overloading the input to external equipment or driving a subsequent stage in the signal chain into limiting or compression. Ideally, the gain needed to drive the rest of the signal chain should be present at the receiver outputs, with each successive stage in other equipment set to unity (no gain or loss).
Tone On/Off Indicator
(Shown in Off position.)
3. Use the Tone Generator to adjust other equipment to match the output level from the receiver with full modulation of the transmitter. Press the Function Button to start the tone.
The indicator will reverse to a dark background
with light letters when the tone is delivered to the selected output. Rotate the MENU/SELECT control to set the desired level.
WARNING: The 1 kHz reference tone is equivalent to full modulation at the transmitter. It is LOUD.
The test tone level is always at the 0dB reference level (full modulation of the wireless system), which is the level at which the first red “limit” light comes on at the transmitter.
The highest level that the equipment downstream will ever see before the receiver clips is 4.5 dB higher than the test tone. Note that this is output headroom. Over the entire 30+ dB range of the limiter in a Lectrosonics transmitter, the output at the receiver goes up only 4.5 dB or less.
NOTE: The tone is a sine wave with about 1% distortion
16
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Selecting Audio Phase
Microphone wiring and other vagaries can alter the phase of an audio signal. To compensate for this, the phase of the audio output of each receiver module can be inverted.
1. Navigate to the Phase setup screen.
2. Select each receiver module with the Receiver Select Button and adjust the phase with the MENU/SE­LECT control.
Selecting Transmitter Battery Status Monitoring Mode
The receiver will monitor the status of the batteries in the transmitters and display it when used with certain transmitters, such as Lectrosonics 200 Series and Digi­tal Hybrid models. The type of battery being used in the transmitter must be defined in the TxBatt setup screen.
NOTE: The Compat Mode (compatibility mode) set for each receiver module will determine which battery monitoring methods are available
The TxBatt setup screen allows you to select the exact battery being used in the transmitter to provide more accurate battery level monitoring. Alkaline, lithium and rechargeable AA and 9V types are commonly used. The voltage declines gradually over the life of alkaline and lithium types, so the voltage can be estimated and displayed by the receiver. Rechargeable types, on the other hand, maintain almost constant voltage as they discharge, so a timer is provided in the receiver to track operating time and anticipate the need for battery changes.
1. Navigate to the TxBatt setup screen.
2. Select each receiver module with the Receiver Select Button and set the battery type being used in the corresponding transmitter.
9V ALK Transmitter uses a 9V alkaline battery.
Monitor voltage with battery icon in main window.
9V LTH Transmitter uses a 9V lithium battery. Moni-
tor voltage with battery icon in main window.
9V TIM Transmitter uses a 9V battery. Display its
voltage normally in the battery level window but monitor its status with the battery timer in the main window.
AA ALK Transmitter uses a AA alkaline battery.
Monitor voltage with battery icon in main window.
AA LTH Transmitter uses a AA lithium battery. Moni-
tor voltage with battery icon in main window.
AA TIM Transmitter uses an AA battery. Display its
voltage normally in the battery level window but monitor its status with the battery timer in the main window.
The 9V TIM and AA TIM settings are most useful for re­chargeable batteries, all or most of which do not exhibit reliably identifiable voltage drops as they discharge.
In compatibility modes other than 400 Series and 200 Series, no battery telemetry information is available so the TXBAT setup screen offers only two choices:
NOTIMER Display no transmitter battery status in the
main window.
TIMER Monitor the transmitter battery status with
the battery timer in the main window.
If the selected receiver module is part of a ratio diversity pair, the battery type will be automatically set for both units in the pair. If the selected receiver module is part of a frequency diversity pair, the battery type is set independently for each receiver in the pair since there are two transmitters in use.
3. When either the AA TIM or 9V TIM (timer) mode is selected, press the Function Button to reset (“ZERO”) the timer.
Press the Function Button
to Reset (ZERO) the Timer
Selected Receiver
Battery Types for Each
Receiver Module
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
Current
Transmitter
Battery Voltage
(when available)
Selected Receiver
is Highlighted
Elapsed Time
17
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Battery status is displayed on the receiver detail screen, the overview screen and the info screen.
Battery Gauges
The display
changes to a
numerical readout
when a timer mode
is selected.
Locking Out the Front Panel Controls
Navigate to the LockSet setup screen.
Rotate the MENU/SELECT control to the LOCKED or NOT LOCKED setting and press the control.
When LOCKED is selected, no changes can be made to the configuration with the front panel controls. If an attempt is made to change a setting, the LCD will flash a reminder that the controls are locked.
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LECTROSONICS, INC.
Installing USB Drivers
This sequence and the screens are typical of installing the drivers on a computer running 64-bit Windows 7.
Insert the disk into your local drive. When the first screen appears, select Install USB Drivers for either the 32-bit or 64-bit version to match your computer operating system. The driver only needs to be installed one time on each computer that will be connected to the processors.
Select 32-bit or 64-bit to match
your operating system
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
The EULA (End User License Agreement) must be ac­cepted in order to continue the installation. Click on the radio button labeled I accept the EULA and then on Next to continue.
When the Welcome Screen appears, click on Next to continue the installation.
A progress screen will appear briefly as the installation proceeds, followed by the confirmation screen that veri­fies that the drivers were successfully installed. Click on Finish to exit the confirmation screen.
Select Next to continue
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
19
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Installing LecNet2 Software
IMPORTANT: Install the USB driver BEFORE installing the software to simplify the process. See the steps on the previous page.
This sequence and the screens are typical of installing the drivers on a computer running 64-bit Windows 7.
Insert the disk and when the main screen appears, select Install LecNet2 Software.
Select Install
LecNet2 Software
on the button labeled I Agree, then on Next to continue with the installation.
The next screen will prompt you to select a folder for the program. The default location appears automatically. It is generally best to accept the default. You can also choose to allow the software to run for anyone using the computer, or just for the administrator installing the software (you). Click Next to continue.
The welcome screen will appear. Click on Next to pro­ceed to the installation.
The next screen presents the EULA (end user license agreement) which must be approved to continue. Click
20
LECTROSONICS, INC.
When the confirmation screen appears, click on Next to continue with the installation.
The installation takes place quickly, followed by the final screen that verifies that the software was installed cor­rectly. Click on Close to exit the installer.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
21
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Setting Up the Venue Receiver Using VRpanel
Once the LecNet2™ software and USB drivers have been installed, the Venue receiver can be configured with a software interface and a computer using a Win­dows® 2000, XP or VistaTM operating system.
VRpanel is an intuitive software package that simplifies the setup and operation of the Venue receiver. This sec­tion of this manual is limited to the basic setup and con­figuration. More detailed explanations concerning usage and configuration are contained in the online Help.
The online Help also documents the serial commands used by external devices, including AMX® and Crestron® remote control systems, that can be used to control the Venue system.
Opening VRpanel with USB Port
1. Lauch VRpanel from Start/All Programs/LecNet2, or from a shortcut you create yourself.
2. When the “How to Begin” dialog box appears, select I would like to Add VR detected via USB and click OK.
Opening VRpanel with a COM Port
1. Lauch the VRpanel software from Start/All Pro­grams/LecNet2, or from a shortcut you create
yourself.
2. Click on I would like to begin with a Blank con-
figuration.
3. Click on Add via COM1 (or whichever COM port is to be used) under the Configuration menu to the receiver to the configuration.
3. The Add VR(s) via USB dialog lists the ID & Serial Number of all Venue Systems connected to the computer via the USB. Select the VR (Venue receiv­er) to be monitored or configured and then click OK to add the receiver to the VRpanel configuration.
22
VRpanel Main Window
The Main Window shows all connected Venue receivers with real time information for each receiver module.
Receiver information
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Main Window Top Menu Items
The Main Window is organized in a straightforward manner with three pull down menus. Brief descriptions of these menus are presented here as an introduction. Full descriptions and instructions for the menu items are presented in the online Help.
With multiple Venue receivers, a pane opens for each receiver, with positions for up to six receiver modules in each. This lets you view and control all wireless sys­tems simultaneously on a single computer screen.
File Menu
Items under the File Menu allow you to create, store and retrieve configu­rations from files stored on disk, and to update the firmware. Open Offline opens a configuration stored on disk without having hardware connected. See the online Help for more infor­mation pertaining to these items.
Configuration Menu
Connections to the Venue receiver via USB, a COM port, Network or an Extron IPL TS ethernet adapter are enabled in this menu. Compact View reduces the size of objects in the main window, allowing more Venue receivers to be moni-
tored and controlled at the same time. Add Offline lets you add another Venue receiver to the configuration without having the hardware. See the online Help for more information pertaining to these items.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
NOTE: Right clicking is the key to successful VRpanel operation!
Set Up VR
The Set Up VR menu item opens a dialog box which is used to configure all settings for the receiver.
This dialog consists of three sections: Plug-In Receiver Selection, Plug-In Receiver Settings and Master Set­tings. All changes made are implemented in real time.
Scanning Spectrum Analyzer
The Spectrum Scan menu item opens a dialogue box which is used to research and display the RF signals being picked up by the receiver. When the spectrum scan dialog box opens, click on Run to start the scan.
RF signal strength
in microvolts
RF signals shown
as shaded areas
Help Menu
The items in this menu open the online Help, turn on and off a demon­stration mode for VRpanel and view the software version information.
Popup Menu Items
Right clicking anywhere in a receiver pane invokes a context-sensitive and position-sensitive popup menu. From there it is possible to alter settings, add or delete a Venue receiver from VRpanel, perform a spectrum scan, start the Walk Test Recorder and more.
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
This module is set to Custom Tuning
Mode - no scanning takes place
Separate panes are presented for each receiver module. The scan results are presented in a graphical display with shaded areas indicating frequency and strength of RF signals. A scale in the middle of the dis­play indicates the approximate signal strength.
23
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Scanning continues until it is suspended by the user. Click Stop to suspend the scanning. While scanning is suspended, select a receiver module with its radio button in the upper left of the dialog box. The cursor for the selected module will be highlighted, and can then be moved by left clicking and dragging the mouse. Click Run to resume the scan. Click Clear to stop the scan and clear the spectrum data. The behavior of these but­tons is the same regardless of whether or not the scan is “complete.”
Receiver select buttons
Move all cursors
into clear areas between the RF
signals as shown
in these two
examples
To avoid interference from external signals, the cur­sors should be placed in between the RF signals, as they are in the illustration above. To avoid interference caused by the systems themselves, refer to the sections entitled Pre-coordinated Frequencies and Diagnostics for details on multi-channel compatibility and testing.
Walk Test Recorder
This menu item opens a dialog box providing a con­venient method for testing the operation of selected receiver modules (or receiver module pairs) with the corresponding transmitters.
Click the Record button (red circle) to start the Walk Test Recorder and the Stop button (black square) to stop the recording process. Press the Play (green triangle) to play back the recording. Rewind and Fast Forward buttons move the window to the beginning and end of the chart. The cursor can also be moved with the
computer mouse by clicking and dragging.
During the walk test, it helps to describe the location of the transmitter, e.g. “now going through the blue door,” “now passing the front gate,” etc. during the recording to make it easier to discern the bad locations. Start the playback of walk test and audio recordings from the be­ginning and observe the chart recording while you listen to the audio recording.
Factory Defaults
Clicking this item in the popup menu restores the se­lected Venue System to the factory default settings.
The Factory Default Settings are:
Level
Phase
TxBatt
SmartNR
Compat
Tuning
DivMode
LockSet
RxCh
+00 dBu
NORMAL
9V ALK
NORMAL
Dig. Hybrid
NORMAL MODE
Switched
NOT LOCKED
8, 0
Custom Channels
Click on this item to open a dialog box allowing you to create, save and edit customized frequency sets.
The Walk Test Recorder produces a chart recording of RF signal strength versus time. Receiver modules in switched diversity mode leave a single trace; diversity pairs leave dual traces.
An audio recording can be made while the recorder is running using the MC65 cable supplied with unit. Con­nect the PHONES jack output on the Venue Receiver front panel to the computer system’s audio input. Adjust the output level of the receiver with the LEVEL control on the front panel.
24
Right click
on each line
to open the
editing dialog
box and make
selections.
Refer to the
Online Help for
details.
Delete VR
Click on Delete VR in the popup menu to delete the selected Venue receiver from the current VRpanel con­figuration.
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Antenna Use and Placement
An tenn a An tenn a
The Venue System is designed for rack mounting. Although it can be operated with two whip antennas, it is best to use remote antennas such as the SNA600 or ALP Series for optimum reception. Position the remote antennas at least three or four feet apart and not within three or four feet of large metal surfaces. If this is not possible, try to position the antennas so that they are as far away from the metal surface as is practical. It is also good to position them so that there is a direct “line of sight” between the transmitter and the receiver anten­nas.
In situations where the operating range is less than about 100 feet, the antenna positioning is much less critical. The length and type of cabling between anten­nas and the system, however, is critical. Long cable runs can experience serious signal loss. Lectrosonics offers in-line RF amplifiers suitable for compensating for this signal loss. Contact your dealer or the factory for more information.
A wireless transmitter sends a radio signal out in all directions. This signal will often bounce off nearby walls, ceilings, etc. and a strong reflection can arrive at the
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
receiver’s antennas along with the direct signal. If the direct and reflected signals are out of phase with each other and similar in strength, a cancellation or “drop­out” may occur. A dropout can sound like audible noise (hiss, swishing or a “shhht” sound), or in severe cases, may result in a complete loss of both the carrier and the sound. Moving the transmitter even a few inches can change the sound of the dropout, or may even eliminate it. A dropout situation also may be either better or worse as a crowd fills or leaves the room.
The Venue System offers several different diversity reception methods which can overcome most dropout problems. In the event, however, that you do encounter a dropout problem, first try moving one of the remote antennas at least three or four feet from its current location. If dropouts are still a problem, try moving the antennas to entirely different locations.
Lectrosonics transmitters radiate power very efficiently, and the receivers are very sensitive, which reduces dropouts to an insignificant level. If, however, you do en­counter dropouts frequently, call the factory or consult your dealer. There is probably a simple solution.
Powering Remote RF Amplifiers
UFM230 UFM230
DC Power to UFM230 DC Power to UFM230
Remote antennas can be placed at a distance from the VRM to optimize reception. To overcome loss in long coaxial cable runs, a Lectrosonics UFM Series inline RF filter/amp should be positioned at the far end of the coaxial cable, close to the antenna.
With the amplifier in this position, gain is applied ahead of the loss to maximize the signal to noise ratio of the antenna system.
Power for the UFM amplifier can be supplied by the Venue receiver through the coaxial cable by setting jumpers on the main PC board toward the center of the board as shown. Disconnect power and then remove the top cover for access to the jumpers.
VRM
Long coax cabl e Long coax cabl e
Jumper positioned to
enable DC power
Jumpers set
towards the center
NOTE: It is best practice to enable this DC power ONLY when a UFM remote amplifier is used. Some anten­nas may present a short to the power supply. While the power supply is fused and it is unlikely that damage would occur, it is always best to disable the DC when it is not in use.
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
Location of Jumpers
25
VR Field Wideband Receiver
BLOCK 22
5t
Bt
4t
At
7t
0t
5t
Dt
Dt
3t
At
7t
2t
Ct
3t
Pre-coordinated Frequencies
Interference from IM (intermodulation) is a potential problem in all multi-channel wireless systems, so proper frequency coordination is always required to avoid noise, range and dropout problems. Your options to ac­complish this include:
• Usingthepre-coordinatedfrequencygroups  • Performingasystemcheckout
(See Multi-channel System Checkout)
• CallingLectrosonicsforassistance
Compatible Frequency Table
Groupings of compatible frequencies have been cre­ated to minimize intermodulation problems in multiple channel wireless systems. The frequencies can be used with Digital Hybrid and analog Lectrosonics wireless equipment. Compatibility with other brands is likely, but not guaranteed by Lectrosonics.
The table provides two different sets of pre-coordinated frequencies for frequency blocks 470 through 29. The table is constructed to create a visual pattern of com­patible frequencies to make it easier to use. The fre­quencies are stored in memory in various products and included in the VRpanel software.
Pre-coordinated fre­quencies are arranged in four groups as shown at right.
The uppermost eight frequencies comprise Grp a, the eight just below them comprise Grp b, and so on.
FREQ SW SET US TV CH
563.700 0,
564.300 0,
565.200 1,
565.800 1,
567.100 2,
568.000 3,
568.500 3,
569.300 3,
575.700 7,
577.900 9,
578.600 9,
579.900 A,
581.700 B,9 tv32
582.600 C,
585.200 D,
587.500 F,
BLOCK 22
FREQ SW SETUS TV CH
570.1004,5 tv30
570.7004,B tv30
571.6005,4 tv30
572.2005,A tv31
573.2006,4 tv31
574.4007,0 tv31
574.9007,5 tv31
575.5007,B tv31
581.100B,3 tv32
582.100B,D tv32
582.600C,2 tv32
584.300D,3 tv32
585.000D,A tv32
585.600E,0 tv32
586.300E,7 tv32
588.100F,9 tv32
v29
v29
v29
v29
Grp a
v30
v30
v30
v30
v31
v31
v32
v32
Grp b
v32
v33
v33
Grp c
and as “Grp a” through “Grp d” in VRpanel
Grp d
Displayed as “GROUP a” through “GROUP d” in the LCD
Example: Frequencies by Block, Frequencies will vary by block.
Select a
through d
Example: Screen shots to get into pre-coordinated frequencies. Right click on the transmitter display, in the VR panel, and then select “Set Up VR” to get the screen above to select the transmitter groups.
26
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
5t
Bt
4t
At
0t
5t
3t
At
0t
5t
Bt
4t
At
0t
5t
3t
At
0t
5t
Bt
4t
At
0t
5t
3t
At
0t
Compatibility Diagram
Compatibility follows the pattern illustrated in the dia­gram at right.
Grp a and Grp b contain the 16 frequencies shown in the table below (upper orange/white set).
Grp c and Grp d contain the 16 frequencies shown in the table below (lower blue/white set).
NOTE: There is no assurance that frequencies are compatible between the upper orange/white set and the lower blue/white set. Combined use of frequencies from both sets requires testing with the procedures outlined in the following section entitled Diagnostics - Multi-channel System Checkout
These frequencies share RF spectrum with TV chan­nels. The upper orange/white set and the lower blue/ white set of frequencies provide two different lists of TV channels. Use the set with fewer active TV stations in the area where you are operating.
Active TV station signals can be discovered by scanning with the Venue receiver, or researched in advance on this web site: www.fccinfo.com.
All 16 within the
same block are
compatible
The upper eight are compatible with the
lower eight in the
adjacent blocks.
The lower eight are
compatible with the
upper eight in the
adjacent blocks.
BLOCK 24 BLOCK 25
FREQ SW SET US TV CH FREQ SW SETUS TV CH
621.300 4,5tv39646.900 4,
621.900 4,Btv39 647.500 4,
622.800 5,4tv39648.400 5,
623.400 5,Atv39 649.000 5,
624.400 6,4tv39650.000 6,4tv43/44
625.600 7,0tv39651.200 7,
626.100 7,5tv40651.700 7,
626.700 7,Btv40652.3007,B tv44
632.300 B,3tv41 657.900 B,
633.300 B,D tv41 658.900B,D tv45
633.800 C,2tv41659.400 C,2 tv45
635.500 D,3tv41661.100D,3 tv45
636.200 D,Atv41661.800 D,
636.800 E,0tv41 662.400 E,
637.500 E,7 tv41663.100E,7 tv46
639.300 F,9tv42 664.900F,9 tv46
BLOCK 24 BLOCK 25
FREQ SW SET US TV CH FREQ SW SETUS TV CH
621.300 4,5tv39646.900 4,
621.900 4,Btv39 647.500 4,
622.800 5,4tv39648.400 5,
623.400 5,Atv39 649.000 5,
624.400 6,4tv39650.000 6,4tv43/44
625.600 7,0tv39651.200 7,
626.100 7,5tv40651.700 7,
626.700 7,Btv40652.3007,B tv44
632.300 B,3tv41 657.900 B,
633.300 B,D tv41 658.900B,D tv45
633.800 C,2tv41659.400 C,2 tv45
635.500 D,3tv41661.100D,3 tv45
636.200 D,Atv41661.800 D,
636.800 E,0tv41 662.400 E,
637.500 E,7 tv41663.100E,7 tv46
639.300 F,9tv42 664.900F,9 tv46
BLOCK 24 BLOCK 25
FREQ SW SET US TV CH FREQ SW SETUS TV CH
621.300 4,5tv39646.900 4,
621.900 4,Btv39 647.500 4,
622.800 5,4tv39648.400 5,
623.400 5,Atv39 649.000 5,
624.400 6,4tv39650.000 6,4tv43/44
625.600 7,0tv39651.200 7,
626.100 7,5tv40651.700 7,
626.700 7,Btv40652.3007,B tv44
632.300 B,3tv41 657.900 B,
633.300 B,D tv41 658.900B,D tv45
633.800 C,2tv41659.400 C,2 tv45
635.500 D,3tv41661.100D,3 tv45
636.200 D,Atv41661.800 D,
636.800 E,0tv41 662.400 E,
637.500 E,7 tv41663.100E,7 tv46
639.300 F,9tv42 664.900F,9 tv46
v43
v43
v43
v43
v44
v44
v45
v45
v46
v43
v43
v43
v43
v44
v44
v45
v45
v46
v43
v43
v43
v43
v44
v44
v45
v45
v46
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
27
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Diagnostics
Multi-channel System Checkout
Interference can result from a wide variety of sources including TV station signals, other wireless equipment in use nearby, or from intermodulation within a multi­channel wireless system itself. Regardless of how the frequencies were coordinated, a final checkout proce­dure is always a good idea.
Scanning with the RF spectrum analyzer built into the Venue system will identify external RF signals, but it does not address the compatibility of the selected frequencies.
The pre-coordinated frequencies on the chart on the previous pages address in-system intermodulation, but obviously cannot take into account RF signals from external sources that may be present in the location where the system will be operating.
In some cases, you can run the scanner to find clear TV channels, then find enough pre-coordinated frequencies in the tuning groups (Grp a through Grp d) to operate on the clear TV channels. Even so, it is still a good idea to go through the check out procedure because you can encounter interference from other wireless, IFB and intercom systems when you get to the production or installation site.
1. Set up the system for testing. Place antennas in the position in which they will be used and connect to the receivers. Place transmit­ters about 3 to 5 feet apart, about 25 to 30 feet from the receiver antennas. If possible, have all other equipment on the set, stage or location turned on as well, especially any mixing or recording equip­ment that will be used with the wireless system.
2. Set all receivers on clear channels. Turn on all receivers, but leave the transmitters off. Observe at the RF signal strength indicator for each receiver module. If a signal is present, change the frequency to a clear channel where no signal is indicated. If a completely clear channel cannot be found, select the frequency with the lowest RF level indication. Once all receiver modules are on clear channels, go to step 3.
4. Turn each transmitter off one at a time. With all transmitters and receivers turned on, turn each transmitter off one at a time, in turn, and look at the RF level indicator on the matching receiver module. The RF level should disappear or drop to a very low level. If it does not, change frequency on that receiver and transmitter and try it again. When a clear frequency is found, turn the transmitter on and move on to the next channel.
IMPORTANT: Any time a frequency is changed on any of the systems in use, you must start at the beginning and go through this procedure again for all systems. With a little practice, you will be able to do this quickly and save yourself some “multi­channel grief.”
Pilot Tone Bypass
Some wireless equipment uses a supersonic “pilot tone” to control the squelch (audio mute) of a receiver module to keep it silent until a valid signal is received. When a signal with the correct pilot tone is received, the squelch opens and audio is delivered to the output. Pilot tone squelch control also eliminates transients (clicks and pops) when transmitters are turned on and off. Pilot tone is supported in the Digital Hybrid compatibility modes for those systems that use it.
Pilot tone control can be bypassed as a diagnostic tool. Bypass opens the audio output of the receiver uncondi­tionally, allowing you to listen to any signals entering the receiver to help identify their source. Pilot tone bypass will also allow you to use a transmitter that has a defec­tive pilot tone circuit.
CAUTION: When pilot tone is bypassed and the transmitter is turned off, excessive noise will be present. Turn the audio level down before bypassing pilot tone.
Navigate to the PilotBP setup screen.
3. Turn each transmitter on one at a time. Start with all transmitters turned off. As you turn on each one, look at the matching receiver to verify a strong RF signal is received. Then, look at the other receivers and see if one of them is also picking up the signal. Only the matching receiver should indi­cate a signal. Change frequencies on either system slightly until all channels pass this test, then check again to see that all channels are still clear as done in step 2.
28
Select the receiver module with the Receiver Select Button and rotate the MENU/SELECT control to select BYPASS. In this example, the pilot tone for receiver module 1 is set to BYPASS (BYP) and the others are set to NORMAL (NOR).
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Accessories and Common Replacement Parts
Remote Antennas
ALP Series LPDA (log periodic dipole array) models
SNA600 folding dipole antenna
ALP Kit mounting hardware
Coaxial Cable
ARG2 coaxial cable - 2 ft. length
ARG15 coaxial cable - 15 ft. length
ARG25 coaxial cable - 25 ft. length
ARG50 coaxial cable - 50 ft. length
ARG100 coaxial cable - 100 ft. length
ALP500
ALP620
ALP650/L
Coaxial RF Amplifier
UFM230 broadband RF amplifier - 230 MHz BW
UFM50 narrowband RF amplifier - 50 MHz BW
Common Replacement Parts
DCR15/1A6U power supply
24088 Pre-coordinated frequency groups (folded sheet)
21710-1 LecNet Cable for AMX/Crestron control
21529-1 LecNet Cable for RS-232 control
21713 USB Cable - 6 ft. long
MC65 Cable - 1/4 inch male TRS to mini male TRS
P1196 white receiver retaining clip
P1204 receiver connector cover
SNA600
Includes mounting strap and hardware
• ARG2, ARG15 are Belden RG-8/X cable
• ARG25, 50, 100 are Belden 9913F cable
UFM230
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
29
VR Field Wideband Receiver
Service and Repair
If your system malfunctions, you should attempt to correct or isolate the trouble before concluding that the equipment needs repair. Make sure you have followed the setup procedure and operating instructions. Check the interconnecting cables and then go through the TROUBLESHOOTING section in this manual.
We strongly recommend that you do not try to repair the equipment yourself and do not have the local repair shop at­tempt anything other than the simplest repair. If the repair is more complicated than a broken wire or loose connection, send the unit to the factory for repair and service. Don’t attempt to adjust any controls inside the units. Once set at the factory, the various controls and trimmers do not drift with age or vibration and never require readjustment. There are no adjustments inside that will make a malfunctioning unit start working.
LECTROSONICS’ Service Department is equipped and staffed to quickly repair your equipment. In warranty repairs are made at no charge in accordance with the terms of the warranty. Out-of-warranty repairs are charged at a modest flat rate plus parts and shipping. Since it takes almost as much time and effort to determine what is wrong as it does to make the repair, there is a charge for an exact quotation. We will be happy to quote approximate charges by phone for out-of-warranty repairs.
Returning Units for Repair
For timely service, please follow the steps below:
A. DO NOT return equipment to the factory for repair without first contacting us by letter or by phone. We need to
know the nature of the problem, the model number and the serial number of the equipment. We also need a phone number where you can be reached 8 A.M. to 4 P.M. (U.S. Mountain Standard Time).
B. After receiving your request, we will issue you a return authorization number (R.A.). This number will help speed
your repair through our receiving and repair departments. The return authorization number must be clearly shown on the outside of the shipping container.
C. Pack the equipment carefully and ship to us, shipping costs prepaid. If necessary, we can provide you with the
proper packing materials. UPS is usually the best way to ship the units. Heavy units should be “double-boxed” for safe transport.
D. We also strongly recommend that you insure the equipment, since we cannot be responsible for loss of or dam-
age to equipment that you ship. Of course, we insure the equipment when we ship it back to you.
Mailing address: Shipping address: Telephone: Lectrosonics, Inc. Lectrosonics, Inc. (505) 892-4501 PO Box 15900 581 Laser Rd. (800) 821-1121 Toll-free Rio Rancho, NM 87174 Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 892-6243 Fax USA USA
Web: E-mail (general): E-mail (service):
www.lectrosonics.com sales@lectrosonics.com service.repair@lectrosonics.com
30
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
31
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY
The equipment is warranted for one year from date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship provided it was purchased from an authorized dealer. This warranty does not cover equipment which has been abused or damaged by careless handling or shipping. This warranty does not apply to used or demonstrator equipment.
Should any defect develop, Lectrosonics, Inc. will, at our option, repair or replace any defective parts without charge for either parts or labor. If Lectrosonics, Inc. cannot correct the defect in your equipment, it will be replaced at no charge with a similar new item. Lectrosonics, Inc. will pay for the cost of returning your equipment to you.
This warranty applies only to items returned to Lectrosonics, Inc. or an authorized dealer, shipping costs prepaid, within one year from the date of purchase.
This Limited Warranty is governed by the laws of the State of New Mexico. It states the entire liablility of Lectrosonics Inc. and the entire remedy of the purchaser for any breach of warranty as outlined above. NEITHER LECTROSONICS, INC. NOR ANYONE INVOLVED IN THE PRODUCTION OR DELIVERY OF THE EQUIPMENT SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS EQUIPMENT EVEN IF LECTROSONICS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE LIABILITY OF LECTROSONICS, INC. EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF ANY DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have additional legal rights which vary from state to state.
581 Laser Road NE • Rio Rancho, NM 87124 USA • www.lectrosonics.com (505) 892-4501 • (800) 821-1121 • fax (505) 892-6243 • sales@lectrosonics.com
20 September 2012
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