Omnia Audio Omnia FM AM Operating Manual

OMNIA

AUDIO PROCESSOR

INSTALLATION & OPERATION MANUAL

A Telos Company

TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone] E-MAIL: [e-mail] www.omniaaudio.com

TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone] E-MAIL: [e-mail] www.omniaaudio.com

CUTTING EDGE 2101 SUPERIOR AVENUE CLEVELAND, OH 44114

CUTTING EDGE EUROPE JOHANNISTRAßE 6 D-85354 FREISING GERMANY

revision 2.00

G

R E E T I N G S !

elcome to Omnia, the embodiment of a fresh, new concept in broadcast or netcast signal

processing. Omnia applies an advanced design philosophy that yields performance and

W

amazing loudness, with none of that “digital grunge aftertaste!”

Omnia is a fully digital system that can be configured to match the processing needs of any broadcaster. For FM

broadcasters there’s the original versions: Omnia.fm or Omnia.fm.jr with integral stereo encoders; for AM

broadcasters there’s Omnia.am; for broadcasters using the DAB system there’s Omnia.dab; and for Internet

webcasters there’s Omnia.net. There are a number of accessories available including additional memory cards

and, for Omnia.fm users, a FM Composite Filter and three field-upgradable software modules to add processor

functionality: HOT, Veris and Space-EFX (which may also be combined with the HOT or Veris plug-in).

Omnia’s flexibility is built-into the design. Instead of keeping the processing algorithms on a set of EPROMs or

proprietary potted modules, the system’s DSP (Digital Signal Processing) resources are entirely configured

through software contained on a plug-in PC Card (PCMCIA-type). Even fundamental rearrangements of the

system architecture can be easily accomplished in the field by plugging in a new PC card or, by using the

flexibility heretofore unavailable. Omnia delivers crystal-clear highs, thundering bass and

supplied Windows-based remote control application, through remote software download via local serial RS-232

connection or via the Internet through the supplied plug-in modem card.

Omnia, the promise of digital. . . delivered.

ii

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

Greetings ...................................................................... ii

Safety Instructions ....................................................... iv

Hazard / Warning Labels .............................................. v

Notices ......................................................................... vi

Specifications .............................................................vii

Warranty ....................................................................viii

1 - INST ALLATION

Omnia Preinstallation Tasks ...................................... 1-1

Internal Switch & Jumper Settings....................... 1-2

AC Environment ................................................... 1-3

Omnia Installation & Connections ............................ 1-4

2 - OMNIA OPERA TION

The Omnia User Interface ........................................ 2-1

Main Menu Orientation ........................................ 2-2

Omnia Menu Items ................................................... 2-3

Menu & Sub-menu Summary .............................. 2-4

Processing Presets .................................................... 2-5

Omnia Menu Selections ........................................... 2-8

Housekeeping ......................................................... 2-11

Bargraph Display Screens ...................................... 2-14

3 - PROCESSING OVERVIEW

The Omnia and Audio Processing............................. 3-1

4 - OMNIA.FM & FM.JR

Processor Location ................................................... 4-1

Omnia.fm Connections............................................. 4-2

Pre-Emphasis: Where to Insert? ............................... 4-3

Stereo Generator Menu Items................................... 4-4

Block Diagrams ........................................................ 4-5

Bargraph Displays .................................................... 4-5

Menu Tree................................................................. 4-6

5 - OMNIA.AM

Processor Location ................................................... 5-1

Processing Presets .................................................... 5-1

Omnia.am Adjustments ............................................ 5-1

Omnia.am Block Diagram........................................ 5-3

Menu Tree................................................................. 5-3

6 - OMNIA.DAB

Omnia.dab Block Diagram ....................................... 6-1

Omnia.dab Menu Tree.............................................. 6-2

7 -OMNIA.NET

Omnia.net Block Diagram........................................ 7-1

Omnia.net Menu Tree............................................... 7-2

8 - EDITING PRESETS

Clarifying your Processing Objectives...................... 8-1

Adjustment Procedure ......................................... 8-2

Interpreting Processing Displays.......................... 8-3

Expert Mode Parameter Editing ................................8- 4

Saving, Renaming & Deleting Presets ..................... 8-6

Getting the Sound You Want .................................... 8-7

9 - ACCESSORIES

Remote Control Software ......................................... 9-1

Installation ............................................................ 9-1

Use ........................................................................ 9-1

Trigger Interface Script Editor .................................. 9-2

Script Command Definitions................................ 9-3

Using the Script Editor ..........................................9-6

10 - TROUBLESHOOTING & SERVICE

Error Messages ....................................................... 10-1

Omnia Field Servicing............................................ 10-6

Omnia Troubleshooting Guide ............................... 10-7

Obtaining Service ................................................... 10-8

APPENDICES

CE Declaration of Conformity ................................... A

Omnia W orksheets...................................................... B

Omnia.fm.hot Software Module................................. C

Omnia.fm.veris Software Module .............................. D

Omnia.fm.sp Software Module ................................... E

iii

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S A F E T Y I N S T R U C T I O N S

1. Read All Instructions. All safety and operating
instructions must be read before operating the
product.

2. Retain All Instructions. All safety and operating
instructions must be retained for future reference.

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

4. Follow All Instructions. All operating and prod-
uct usage instructions must be followed.

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

6. Ventilation. Slots and openings in the product
are provided for ventilation. They ensure reliable
operation of the product, keeping it from ov erheat­ing. These openings must not be b loc ked nor co v­ered during operation. This product should not be
placed into a rack unless proper ventilation is pro­vided through following the manuf acturer’ s recom­mended installation procedures.

7. Water and Moisture. Do not use this product
near water—for example; near a bath tub, wash
bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub; in a wet base­ment; or near a swimming pool or the like.

8. Attachments. Do not use any attachments not
recommended by the product manufacturer as the y
may cause hazards.

9. Power Sources. This product must be operated
from the type of power source indicated on the
marking label and in the installation instructions. If
you are not sure of the type of power supplied to
your facility, consult your local power company.

10. Grounding and Polarization. This product is
equipped with a polarized AC plug with integral
safety ground pin. Do not def eat the safety ground
in any manner.

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

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

13. Overloading. Do not overload AC wall outlets,
extension cords, or integral convenience outlets
as this can result in a fire or electric shock haz­ard.

14. Object and Liquid Entry. Ne ver push objects of
any kind into this product through openings as
they may touch dangerous voltage points or short­out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

15. Accessories. Do not place this product on an
unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious damage to a
child or adult, and serious damage to the prod­uct. Any mounting of the product needs to follow
manufacturer’s installation instr uctions.

16. A Product and Cart Combination should be
moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force,
and uneven surfaces ma y cause the product and
the cart combination to overturn.

17. Servicing. Refer all servicing to qualified servic­ing personnel.

18. Damage Requiring Service. Unplug this prod-
uct from the wall AC outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:

a. When the AC cord or plug is damaged.
b . If liquid has been spilled or objects have f allen

into the product.

c. If the product has been exposed to rain or

water.

d. If the product does not operate normally

(following operating instructions).

e. If the product has been dropped or damaged

in any way.

f. When the product exhibits a distinct change

in performance. This indicates a need for ser­vice.

19. Replacement Parts. When replacement parts
are required, be sure the service technician has
used replacement parts specified by the manu­facturer or that have the same characteristics as
the original parts. Unauthorized substitutions may
result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

20. Safety Check. Upon completion of any repairs
to this product, ask the service technician to per­form safety checks to determine that the product
is in proper operating condition.

21. Cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
cleaners. Use only a damp cloth for cleaning.

iv

H A Z A R D / W A R N I N G L A B E L S

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD - DO NOT OPEN

A VIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO

NOT REMOVE ANY COVER OR PANEL. NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THE OMNIA TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

The Exclamation Point symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, alerts the
user to the presence of important oper­ating and maintenance (servicing) in­structions in product literature and in­struction manuals.

WARNING—This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions in this manual it may cause interference to radio
communications. It has been tested and found to comply within the limits for a Class A computing
device (pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 FCC Rules), which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user, at his own
expense, will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

CANADA WARNING—This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise
emissions set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communica­tions. Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant les limits
applicables aux brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Comminications du Canada.

CE CONFORMANCE—This device complies with the requirements of the EEC Council Directives:
93/68/EEC (CE Marking); 73/23/EEC (safety—low voltage directive); 89/336/EEC (electromagnetic
compatibility). Conformity is declared to these standards: EN50081-1, EN50082-1.

The Lightning Flash With A rrow-
head symbol, within an equilateral tri­angle, alerts the user to the presence of
uninsulated dangerous voltage within
the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock.

LITHIUM BATTERY CAUTION—Danger of explosion if the internal lithium battery is replaced
incorrectly. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to the battery manufacturer’s instructions.

USE OF SHIELDED CABLING—To conform to the CE requirements for High Frequency
radiation, shielded cables must be used for all audio and data connections. For analog audio and
digital connections, the cable shield must connect to the XLR-type connector shell (chassis ground).

v

revision 2.00

N O T I C E S

All versions, claims of compatibility, trademarks, etc. of hardware and software products not made by Cutting
Edge, but mentioned in this manual or other accompanying material, are informational only. Cutting Edge
makes no endorsement of any particular product for any purpose, nor claims any responsibility for its operation
or the accuracy of the presentation.

Warranty Registration and Software Updates

Omnia’s operation is almost entirely determined by software. A continuous program of improvement ensures
that the product remains at the “cutting edge.” In order to be notified of new software releases, be sure to fax or
mail in the registration form.

Trademarks

Cutting Edge, the Cutting Edge logo, Omnia.fm, Omnia.fm.jr and “The Promise of Digital…Delivered!” are
trademarks of TLS Corporation. All other trademarks mentioned in this work are the property of their respective
holders.

Copyright

Copyright ©1997-2000 TLS Corporation. All rights reserved. Published by Cutting Edge, who reserves the
right to make improvements or changes to the products described herein (which may affect the product
specifications) and to revise this manual as required without notice.

Repair Procedures

You must contact Cutting Edge for a Return Authorization number before returning any products. Packages
without proper authorization may be refused. Write the RA number on the shipping label side of the returned
package. Be sure to adequately insure your shipment. Customers in North America can contact Cutting Edge
customer support at [phone]. In Europe, Contact Cutting Edge Europe at [phone]
(Germany). All other customers should contact their local Cutting Edge dealer to verify the problem and contact
Cutting Edge to arrange for repair. Refer to Chapter 10: Troubleshooting & Service for more details.

Caution

The installation and servicing instructions presented in this manual are for use by qualified
installation and service personnel only. To avoid electric shock, do not perform any servicing other
than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so. Refer all
servicing to qualified personnel.

Warning

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.

vi

S P E C I F I C A T I O N S

All measurements referenced to 100% output. It is not possible to quantify the specifications of the gain
controlling functions of the AGC and limiter sections due to the dynamic nature of the Omnia system under
program conditions. To properly evaluate these functions, there is only one known precise set of test gear for
that—your ears! Listen and judge carefully.

Audio performance

• Frequency Response: ±0.2 dB, 50 Hz - 15 kHz (50 Hz - 10 kHz for Omnia.am)

• System Distortion: 0.017% THD, flat or de-emphasized

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >80 dB, flat or de-emphasized

• Channel Separation: >85 dB, 10 Hz - 15 kHz (50 Hz - 10 kHz for Omnia.am)

Analog I/O Section

• Left & Right Audio Inputs: 10 k load impedance, electronically balanced bridging input, 20-bit analog-to-digital converter

• Maximum Input Level: +24 dBu

• Connector: XLR, female, EMI suppressed

• Discrete Left/Right Audio Outputs: 600 Ω load or greater, electronically balanced, 18-bit digital-to-analog converter,

flat frequency response or pre-emphasized (50 or 75 µs)

• Connector: XLR, male, EMI suppressed

Digital I/O Section

• Configuration: Stereo AES/EBU

• Input Sampling Rates: 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, sample rate converter provided

• Input Connector: XLR, female, EMI suppressed, balanced and floating

• Output Sampling Rate: 48 kHz

• Output Connector: XLR, male, EMI suppressed, balanced and floating

Composite I/O Section (Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

• SCA / RBDS Subcarrier Input: BNC, unbalanced

• Impedance: 1 k or greater load

• Signal: 53 kHz subcarrier is summed into composite output.

• Software controls: Input level, Output level High pass filter

• Multiplexed Output Connectors: Two BNC, unbalanced

Pilot Output (Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

• Connector: BNC, unbalanced

• Signal: Square-wave reference signal for RBDS or other 57 kHz subcarrier service

• Level: 0 – 1 V p-p (typ). Maximum output 5 V p-p.

• Software control: Output level

• Composite Output Level: 0 – 10 Vp-p, software adjustable

Computer Interface

• Configuration: RS-232 (DB-25 connector) for local serial connection. Optional PC Card modem for dial-up connection.

• Communications: Windows®-based Omnia Remote Control application (supplied).

Remote Control Interface

• Configuration: Eight software-controlled (through the supplied remote application) remote inputs sensing both go low
and go high transitions.

• Connector: DB-9, EMI suppressed.

Power

• Universal power supply accepts 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 50 VA.

• Connector: IEC, detachable 3-wire power cord, EMI suppressed.

Dimensions & Weight

• 19" wide x 16.25" deep x 5.25" high (48.3 x 41.3 x 13.4 cm)

• 32 lbs. (14.5kg), net

vii

In the interests of product improvement, Cutting Edge reserves the right to change, add or modify any
specification.

revision 2.00

W A R R A N T Y

his Warranty covers “the Products,” which are defined as the various audio equipment, parts, software
and accessories manufactured, sold and/or distributed by TLS Corp., d/b/a Cutting Edge (hereinafter

T

With the exception of software-only items, the Products are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two years from the date of receipt by the end-user. Software-only items are
warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 90 days from the date of receipt
by the end-user.

This warranty is void if the Products are subject to Acts of God, including (without limitation) lightning;
improper installation or misuse, including (without limitation) the failure to use telephone and power line surge
protection devices; accident; neglect or damage.

EXCEPT FOR THE ABOVE-STATED WARRANTY, CUTTING EDGE MAKES NO WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED (INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE).

In no event will Cutting Edge, its employees, agents or authorized dealers be liable for incidental or
consequential damages, or for loss, damage, or expense directly or indirectly arising from the use of any of the
Products or the inability to use any of the Products either separately or in combination with other equipment or
materials, or from any other cause.

“Cutting Edge”).

In order to invoke this Warranty, notice of a warranty claim must be received by Cutting Edge within the above­stated warranty period and warranty coverage must be authorized by Cutting Edge. If Cutting Edge authorizes
the performance of warranty service, the defective Product must be delivered, shipping prepaid, to: Cutting
Edge, 2101 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

Cutting Edge, at its option will either repair or replace the Products and such action shall be the full extent of
Cutting Edge’s obligation under this Warranty. After the Products are repaired or replaced, Cutting Edge will
return them to the party that sent the Products, and Cutting Edge will pay for the cost of shipping.

Cutting Edge’s authorized dealers are not authorized to assume for Cutting Edge any additional obligations or
liabilities in connection with the dealers’ sale of the Products.

Cutting Edge products are to be used with registered protective interface devices which satisfy regulatory
requirements in their country of use.

viii

1

I

N S T A L L A T I O N

ven though we believe the Omnia is the easiest processor to install in its class, please take a few minutes
to read through this chapter before proceeding with the installation.

E

Omnia Preinstallation Tasks

This section offers common procedures for installing any version Omnia processor. Additional model-specific
information is given in the chapters on specific versions (Omnia.fm and .fm.jr in Chapter 4, Omnia.am in
Chapter 5, Omnia.dab in Chapter 6 and Omnia.net in Chapter 7).

Omnia Components

By now, you’ve unpacked the shipping carton to at least gain access to this manual. Be sure to inspect the
Omnia and shipping carton for any shipping damage, which must be reported to your carrier for any claims.

The Omnia shipping box includes the following components:

➤ Omnia processor (containing the DSP hardware)
➤ Omnia PC card (holding the DSP software)
➤ Omnia modem card
➤ Omnia Remote Control program (on a single 3 1/2" floppy disk)
➤ Omnia Operating Manual
➤ Warranty Registration Card (fill it out and return it)
➤ IEC Power Cord

PC Card & Modem Card Installation

Before physically installing Omnia, or even plugging in the power
cord, make sure the Omnia PC Card and Omnia modem card are
installed into the two card slots on the back panel. Installation or
removal must be done with the power off unless directed otherwise.

The PC Card is inserted into the top card slot (Memory) with the
Omnia label facing up. Insert the Modem Card into the bottom card
slot (Modem) below the Omnia PC Card. Both the PC Card and
Modem Card are keyed to prevent mis-insertion. Press the cards into
the slot until their release buttons, to the right of the cards, pop out
about 1/2" [12.70 mm]. This indicates the cards are properly seated
in the PCMCIA slots.

P C C A R D

Omnia PC Card, label side

1-1

Note: You must use the modem card supplied with your
Omnia, no other modem cards are approved for use at this
time. We cannot assume correct operation of any other
modem card, nor can we provide support.

EXPANSION CARDS

MEMORY
MODEM

Rear Panel PC Card Slots

revision 2.0

Installation

The PC Card that is used in Omnia is not a generic PCMCIA card that you might find in a local computer
store. It’s a card that is specifically designed for this product. If you insert a card of unknown origin, you risk
extensive damage to the unit and a complete voiding of the warranty!

Note: The Omnia PC Card must remain in the carriage unless you are prompted by the system to remove it.
Randomly removing the Omnia PC Card without system instruction may cause unpredictable operation and PC
Card data damage.

During operation of the Omnia, it is possible to remove the Omnia PC Card without interrupting the processing.
There are a few Omnia PC Card utilities that can be performed which require this. They are described in
Housekeeping in Chapter 2, Omnia Operation.

The Omnia is normally installed into a 19" equipment rack. But, before rack mounting the Omnia, ensure that
the internal jumper and switch positions are appropriately set for your installation as outlined in the next
section. Also, refer to the chapter on your model Omnia for additional information on where to locate your
Omnia processor.

Internal Switch & Jumper Settings

There is one internal AGC switch (applicable to any
model Omnia that’s using the analog inputs) and two
jumpers (applicable only to Omnia.fm’s Composite
outputs) that may need to be changed from their factory
defaults. Read through the switch and jumper
descriptions to determine if they need to be changed for
your installation.

REMOVE NINE SCREWS

TO REMOVE COVER

If they need to be changed, the top cover of the Omnia
must be removed. Use care when working inside the
Omnia. Take appropriate measures to avoid product
damage due to static discharge.

Place the Omnia on an antistatic work surface,

Omnia Top Cover Removal

unconnected to AC power, before removing the top cover
(held in place by nine #1 Phillips screws).

Analog Input Headroom Protection Limiter

When the analog inputs are being used, an analog input protection limiter is engaged by default. This very fast­acting peak limiter is set to respond to any signal peak that approaches within 2 dB of clipping the 20-bit A/D
converter. Since the operating level is nominally about 18 - 20 dB below the clip level, the limiter should never
become active. However, should a condition arise where the audio level threatens clipping in the A/D converter,
the limiter activates to prevent one of the nastiest forms of distortion.

Even though this limiter uses a high quality VCA, there may be those “audiophiles” who wish to disable the
limiter. This is done by changing a slide switch on the A/D board inside the unit. The A/D board is a square
“daughter” board that sits on the motherboard near the rear panel XLR connectors as shown in the illustration.
A single blue slide switch, labeled AGC, is on this board. Use a small screwdriver to slide the switch away from
the In position. The limiter is now defeated.

Note: When the limiter is defeated, so is the Analog Gain software parameter that sets the input sensitivity. With
the limiter Out, the input sensitivity is fixed at +4 dB.

1-2

Chapter 1

Composite Output Load Jumpers

(for Omnia.fm only)

10 Ω Setting

(Default)

MAIN PC BOARD

75 Ω Setting

IN AGC

DAUGHTER

BOARD

(ADC board)

DSP CARD GUIDE SUBPANEL

Input Overdrive Limiter

On/Off Switch

AGC In (Default)

No Input AGC

Omnia Internal View, Right Rear, Jumper & Switch Locations

Composite Output Series Load (Omnia.fm only)

The default Composite output series load is 10 Ω, which is appropriate for the vast majority of FM exciter
connections. However, exciters manufactured before 1975 need 75 Ω series resistance. Two jumpers on the
motherboard allow the composite outputs to be independently set for either 10 Ω or 75 Ω. The jumpers are
located next to the composite coax cable PC board sockets. The jumpers are set, by default, in the 10 Ω
position. Changing the jumper to the other position changes the series resistance to 75 Ω.

Once all internal changes are finished, reinstall the top cover, making sure all nine Phillips screws are
reinstalled.

AC Environment

Since the Omnia is microcomputer-based, it requires the same clean AC environment as any computer system.
Even though the Omnia has internal AC input transient suppression, we recommend that transient suppressors/
voltage regulation or an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) be employed as well. This is especially
recommended when installing Omnia at a transmitter site. Heavy transient demands on power lines, from
normal switching to lightning strikes, have been known to wreak havoc with data in computer systems. This is
another reason we ask that you give your AC environment thorough consideration before plugging in your
Omnia processor.

1-3

revision 2.0

Installation

Omnia Installation & Connections

As these instructions cover the entire Omnia family of processors, there may be some connections listed that are
not used on your specific model. Refer to the individual model chapter for additional details specific to your
Omnia version. Throughout this section reference is made to Omnia’s “software parameters.” These are part of
the User Interface, which is covered in Chapter 2, Omnia Operation.

Rack Mounting

The Omnia requires 3RU (5.25") of rack space and four
rack screws for mounting. You must leave at a minimum
one rack unit of empty space above the processor to
enhance ventilation and to prolong component life.
Install a 1RU (1.75") vented or solid panel to fill this
space. It is recommended that another 1RU blank panel
be installed below the processor for the same reason, if
rack space is not at a premium.

AES/EBU

IN OUT

ANALOG INPUTS

LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT

COMPOSITE OUTPUTS

12

ANALOG OUTPUTS

19KHZ OUT

SCA INPUT

RS232

1RU Blank or Vent panel (required)

1RU Blank or Vent panel (recommended)

Omnia 19" Rack Mounting

INTERFACE

EXPANSION CARDS

PROTECT

L

+20

PROTECT

0

IN OUT

-15

-30

R

-40

MEMORY
MODEM

Omnia menu

Audio Processing
Input/Output
Stereo Generator

Go to additional options

UNIVERSAL POWER INPUT

100-240 VAC

1.3-0.3A;50-60HZ

IO

CUTTING EDGE, USA

Omnia Back Panel Connections

AC Connection (IEC)

The Omnia uses a universal power entry module with integral AC switch just above the IEC power cord
receptacle. The Omnia can operate on AC mains voltages from 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz since a self-adjusting
switching power supply is used. In the USA, plug the supplied AC power cord into the Omnia and then into an
isolated ground AC outlet. Outside of the USA you must obtain an appropriate local IEC power cord.

Press the “I” side of the rear panel power switch to turn on the unit. The Omnia is designed to be turned on
and left on. Press the “O” side of the switch to turn off the Omnia for servicing.

When power is first applied, the Omnia takes ten to fifteen seconds to load the DSP code off the PC Card.
During system power-up, the front panel LCD screen displays several status screens while the operating
software and DSP code is loaded. Once the main Omnia Menu is shown on screen, the Omnia is ready
for use.

1-4

Chapter 1

Audio Inputs (Female XLR)

Balanced XLR-type connectors are used to input both analog and AES-3 digital audio. Even though both
analog and digital cables can be connected, only one input can be set active. Input selection is done through the
Input Source software parameter setting. The Analog input is the factory default selection.

The stereo analog inputs are designed for standard +4 dBu balanced signals. The digital AES-3 input accepts
any sampling rate between 32 and 50 kHz. No user adjustment is necessary since a sample rate converter is
built into the unit. Individual channel gain and level setting for both analog and digital is done using the Input
& Output software parameter settings.

A Note About Relative Phase: If the relative phase of your installation including the Omnia differs from your
existing system, it could cause your announcers to feel they sound “weird” in their headphones. If this happens,
then the relative phase of the processor is 180 degrees from what your air talent have been used to hearing. To
remedy this situation, you could reverse the wiring polarity to both of the Omnia’s analog inputs (is pin 2 or
is it pin 3 that's hot!?, in the Omnia, pin 2 is hot). However, it’s a lot easier to accomplish this same function by
changing the Input Phase software parameter setting.

Discrete Audio Outputs—Analog & Digital (Male XLR)

Individual Left and Right analog outputs are available on two male XLR jacks, as is a single stereo AES-3
output. The 48 kHz digital output is produced directly from the output of the final processing section. The
analog output is derived from a D/A converter driven from the digital output.

Note: Both the analog and digital AES-3 outputs are always active and can be used simultaneously.

Composite Outputs (BNC) - For Omnia.fm versions only

These two low impedance outputs (Composite 1 and Composite 2) are each capable of driving up to 50 feet of
coax cable. The output levels are individually adjustable between the outputs so the unit can operate as a
“composite DA” to drive a variety of equipment. The output levels and other stereo generator settings are set
through software parameters.

19 kHz Data Output (BNC) - For Omnia.fm versions only

This TTL-level 19 kHz square wave output can be used as the reference signal for any SCA generator that
operates at 57 kHz or other multiple of the 19 kHz pilot frequency. Using the 19 kHz clock from the Omnia
stereo generator makes it much easier to phase lock the SCA signal to the pilot frequency. This is extremely
helpful in eliminating intermodulation components that might exist between the pilot and SCA signal. For RDS
users, this feature is very useful.

SCA Input (BNC) - For Omnia.fm versions only

Any SCA signal above 53 kHz can be added to the composite outputs of the Omnia by routing the SCA signal
through the SCA INPUT connector. The SCA signal is mixed directly into both composite outputs. A high-pass
filter on the SCA input provides additional crosstalk protection from the SCA to the main channel composite
signal. The SCA modulation is controlled through software parameters.

1-5

RS-232 & Interface Connection (DB-25M and DB-9F)

For a local bidirectional computer connection with the Omnia, connect a standard serial cable (not a null
modem cable) between the RS-232 connector and a serial port connector on the computer. Typically, a DB-25
male to DB-9 female serial cable is required. Communication requires that the Omnia Remote Control software

revision 2.0

Installation

be loaded onto the local computer and that the modem port be properly configured for the Windows®
environment.

The Remote Control application is covered in detail in Chapter 9, Accessories.

Interface

The 9-pin female Interface connector uses eight pins as “trigger” inputs with the ninth pin as the ground
reference. The trigger inputs can be used to dynamically alter the Omnia’s operational attributes in response to
logic signal transitions. The Omnia responds uniquely on each trigger input to both go-high and go-low
transitions. With eight inputs, and two possible triggers (logic go-high and go-low), sixteen unique “trigger
scripts” can be written to control the Omnia in response to these trigger input logic transitions.

The Trigger Script Interface Editor is covered in detail in Chapter 9, Accessories.

1-6

2

O

M N I A O P E R A T I O N

ith the Omnia rack-mounted, connected to an input and an output, and turned on, it’s about time to
learn how to operate it! This chapter covers the User Interface, the all-important window into the

W

Omnia processor.

The Omnia User Interface

The Omnia front panel user interface consists of a large jog-wheel, a small recessed push-button, an LCD
screen, two LED meters and a headphone monitor jack.

The LCD screen displays menus, parameter settings, the AGC bargraphs or the Limiter bargraphs. The Push­Button toggles between the two types of LCD screen: the menus and the bargraphs. The menus are used during
initial setup and for adjusting the processing parameters. In normal day-to-day operation, one of the bargraphs
is typically displayed to dynamically indicate the real-time signal processing.

PROTECT

Headphone Monitor

(follows In/Out Meter

selection)

+20

0

Input or Output

LED Meters

PROTECT

LCD Screen (showing Start-Up Menu)

Omnia menu

Audio Processing

IN OUT

-15

Input/Output
Stereo Generator

-30

L

R

-40

Omnia menu

+20

PROTECT

PROTECT

0

IN OUT

-15

-30

R

L

-40

(toggles Display between

Audio Processing
Input/Output
Stereo Generator

Go to additional options

Push-Button

menus & bargraphs)

Go to additional options

Jog-Wheel
(selects menu items and
sets parameter values)

Omnia Front Panel Controls & Displays

2-1

The two LED meters display either the audio input or output levels for the Left and Right channels. An IN or
OUT indicator lights to identify the meter source. The headphone monitor audio follows the metering source
selection. The headphone monitor level is set using the Headphones software parameter.

Rotating the Jog-Wheel moves a highlighting bar up or down through menus and parameter choices. Pressing
the jog-wheel (called “clicking”) selects the highlighted menu item or parameter choice. When editing the
parameter values, rotating the jog-wheel adjusts the parameter’s value up (by rotating CW) or down (CCW).

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Operation

Once the desired value is reached, clicking the jog-wheel saves the value and returns the display to the previous
menu or sub-menu. Thus pressing or clicking the jog-wheel serves as, depending upon the LCD screen, an
Enter, Select or Return command.

Clockwise rotation moves
the cursor downward in menus

The Enter, Return or
Select button. Pressing
the Jog-Wheel once
selects the highlighted
menu item or accepts
the current parameter
value. Think of it as a
vertical mouse button.

or increases the value when
editing parameters

CW

Counterclockwise rotation

CCW

moves the cursor upward
in menus or decreases the
value when editing parameters

Jog Wheel Use

Main Menu Orientation

When Omnia is first turned on several start-up screens are displayed.
After ten to fifteen seconds the Omnia Main Menu is displayed with
a sliding menu bar along the right side of the screen to indicate your
position within the menu hierarchy. A multipurpose help line is
located at the bottom of the display.

Note: After a time-out, the help line will cycle through: the current
preset name, the status of dayparts, and the day and date. The time is
displayed at the right side.

The Omnia menu system has been designed to be intuitive and simple
to use, with a minimum of sub-menu layers. Most operating

Typical Omnia Startup Screens

parameters are found less than three sub-menus deep. This allows
multiple processing changes to be made “on-the-fly” with relative ease. The complete system is managed
through the four menu choices on the main Omnia Menu. They are: Audio Processing, Input & Output,
Display and Utility. A fifth sub-menu, Stereo Generator, is added for the Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr versions.

Omnia menu

Audio Processing

Input & Output
Stereo Generator

Go to additional options

The Audio Processing menu item is shown highlighted in
the illustration. The highlighting is controlled by the jog­wheel. Rotate the jog-wheel CW to step the highlighting
down through the menu items. When the desired menu item
is reached, press the jog-wheel once (“click”) to select that
item. If the item has sub-menus (like Audio Processing),
then the Audio Processing menu choices will be displayed.

Omnia Main Menu Items

If the menu item is a parameter selection, then the

parameter choices or a bargraph value indicator is
displayed. Rotating the jog-wheel steps through the choices and raises (when rotated CW) or lowers (when
rotated CCW) the parameter value. Click the jog-wheel to select the parameter.

When a sub-menu is displayed, the top menu item will always be the return arrow.
Highlight the return arrow and then “click” to move back to the next higher menu.

Return Arrow

2-2

Chapter 2

The Menu Tree

The menu tree for the Omnia.fm is shown on the next page (page 2-4). It has all five of the possible main menu
items listed along the left side. The branching sub-menus and parameters connect in the order they are
encountered in the menu system. The Audio Processing sub-menu is the same for all Omnia versions, although
some of the Edit Parameters choices will differ between models. The Input & Output sub-menu is similar
between versions with only Pre-emphasis and De-emphasis not being used in some models (Omnia.am also
adds several choices). The Stereo Generator section is identical between the Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr
versions, but is not used on other versions. The Display and Utility sub-menus are identical in all Omnia
versions.

Note: Each Omnia version has its own chapter that includes a menu tree that is specific to that model Omnia.

Omnia Menu Items

This section gives an overview of the menus, sub-menus and par ameters on the Omnia. Refer to the Omnia.fm
Menu Tree on the following page for the menu structure. The Omnia Software Configuration section, starting
on page 2-8, gives in-depth description and usage instructions on each menu item and parameter selection.

Omnia Main Menu

This menu has four items in Omnia.am, Omnia.net and Omnia.dab: Audio Processing, Input & Output, Display
and Utility. A fifth item: Stereo Generator is added on the Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr versions only.

Audio Processing

It is from the Audio Processing sub-menu items—Select Preset and Edit Parameters, that the Omnia processing
power is unleashed. Omnia is equipped with numerous presets that can be selected to instantly configure the
Omnia processing. The presets are selected using Select Pr eset. Selecting Edit Parameters opens up the
parameter editing sub-menu which allows any processing parameter to be “fine-tuned” to tailor your
processing. Save to Card allows the edited preset to be saved to the PC Card as a new User Preset.

Input & Output

This sub-menu provides level adjustment for the discrete left and right inputs and outputs, selection of analog or
AES-3 input, level control of the front panel headphone output, as well as whether pre-emphasis and de­emphasis is applied on the Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr versions. These are generally “set once” selections or
parameters, adjusted during installation and then generally left alone.

Stereo Generator (Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

This sub-menu has the adjustments for the Composite Output Levels, Pilot Level, L-R Gain, SCA Mix Level,
Separation and Pilot Phase.

Display

This sub-menu has the adjustments for the LCD screen (Contrast and Backlight) and the LED metering source
selection (monitor the Input or monitor the Output).

2-3

Utility

Numerous maintenance and utility functions are nested within this sub-menu. Housekeeping of Preset and
System data, along with PC Card maintenance is provided here. Enabling Dayparts as well as setting Security

features to prevent tampering by unauthorized personnel, are also provided under this sub-menu.

(text continues on page 2-5)

revision 2.0

Operation

Audio Processing

Input & Output

Stereo Generator

Select Preset

Edit Parameters

Undo Edit

Save to Card

Save to Card As

Editing Mode

Input Levels

Output Levels

Headphones

Input Source

Pre-emphasis

De-emphasis

Mono Mode

SCA Level

Composite 1

Composite 2

Pilot Level

Phase Adjust

Separation

Normal / Expert

Output Left

Output Right

Analog / AES/EBU

None / 50 µs / 75 µs

None / 50 µs / 75 µs

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Analog Gain

Input Left

Input Right

Input Phase

Normal/Invert

Wideband AGC

Bass

Warmth

Xover

Multiband AGC

Multiband Limiter

Mixer

Clipper

Composite Clipper

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Parameters

Display

Utility

LED Source

Contrast

Backlight

About...

Preset

System Attributes

Card Maintenance

Daypart Table

Security

Set Time

Set Date

Ctrl Port Baud

Reload Software

Input/Output

Copy Entire

Erase User Data

Parameters

Load Defaults

Load from Card

Save to Card

Lock Unit

Login

Lock Password

Engineer Password

Enable Remote

Disable Remote

Select Parameters

Delete

Rename

Copy Single

Copy All

Show All

Add Part

Modify Part

Remove Part

Load from Card

Save to Card

Current State

Enabled / Disabled

Omnia.fm Menu and Submenu Summary

2-4

Chapter 2

There is also a selection to save the state of the Omnia operating system. Save to Card makes a “copy” of the
system configuration, storing it on the PC Card. This simplifies getting back to “square one” when numerous
adjustments have been made, but you want to start over. If a power failure should occur, Omnia restarts using
the last saved operational settings. This means all Input & Output settings are restored, as well as the processing
settings. If the system was not backed up and saved to the PC Card, then the system restores itself to the last
known saved set of parameters (which will be the factory defaults if you don’t use Save to Card!). We suggest
you backup the system after any parameter editing is finished.

User Interface Access

The user interface can be password-protected for controlled access. Even for those with access, the parameter
editing functions (Main Menu > Audio Processing > Edit Parameters) can be limited to the Normal Mode (the
default mode). For experienced engineers, individual parameters can be edited using Expert Mode.

Normal Mode, which is the simpler form of operation, is intended for the novice or newcomer to processing
adjustment who may not have an experienced background in audio processing. This level provides just three
adjustable parameters: Thunder, Sizzle and Thrust. As you might guess, these three areas are probably the most
asked about parameters that programmers look to have adjusted. Each control works independently of the
others and can safely be adjusted by nontechnical personnel.

Expert Mode is for the professional who requires detailed control of all processing parameters. Such
parameters as attack/release times, gate thresholds, multiband EQ settings and clipping drive are available at
this level through a graphical block diagram editor interface. CAUTION! This mode could cause an end user to
“crash and burn” if they do not understand the power that is available or the processing concepts involved.

Processing Presets

Omnia is equipped with numerous processing presets, provided as starting points for customizing the sound of
your station and its format. Cutting Edge does not warrant in any way that these presets are the de facto
standards for the format names used. Each was derived in an effort to create a generic starting point for each
respective format. In some markets, these presets may sound too strong or aggressive. In others, they might not
be aggressive enough. Our experiences with the presets in an earlier product, the Unity 2000, were that the
presets were judged to be about 50% good and 50% bad. That feedback indicated to us that we were probably
about in the middle of the playing field with respect to where the presets need to be to serve as a starting point
for any given market.

With all of that having been said, please rely on the presets to get yourself going. From there, we can provide
assistance, if you desire, or you can venture off to discover new frontiers of processed sound. It is our belief that
there is not any nirvana of processed sound, or special secret preset that we keep for only the Big Stations.
Each station in each market is unique unto itself. Try to remember that when “crafting” that special sonic
personality for your station. Omnia gives you the power to create a sound totally different from, and better than,
your competitors. Enjoy that power!

2-5

We could publish the entire preset list, but chances are that we will continue to develop new or modify existing
presets. So, a list that is guaranteed to be obsolete would be of little help. Besides, the name of each should be
self-explanatory. If you need more clarification, please contact the technical support department.

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Operation

Format Presets

Each Omnia comes with processing presets designed for that model Omnia that cover most broadcasting
formats or netcasting applications. Some models have only a handful, whereas Omnia.am includes 27 presets
(plus a test tone!). A preset contains the saved values for every parameter listed in the menu tree for that model.
When a preset is loaded, these values configure the Omnia’s processing.

The factory presets can be used as-is, or they can be used simply as a starting point to tailor the processing for a
specific requirement. Any of the preset’s parameters can be edited (using Main Menu > Audio Processing > Edit
Parameters) to obtain the desired sound using either the Normal or Expert editing modes. The edited preset can
then be saved to the PC Card as a User Preset and selected just like the factory presets. Editing presets is
covered in detail in Chapter 8, Editing Presets. This section covers how to select and load a preset.

Selecting A Preset

From the Main Menu, highlight and click Audio Processing. Then highlight and click Select Preset. The name
of the preset that is currently running is displayed. Use the jog-wheel to scroll through the list to find a preset to
load. Once the desired preset name is displayed, click the jog-wheel to immediately load that preset into the
Omnia. This also returns you to the Select Preset menu item.

Note that once you move the jog-wheel to display another preset name, a message below the preset name
indicates the previous selection, i.e., “(was Jazz-6AM)” will be shown if that was the currently running preset.
This serves as a reminder, so you can reselect that preset in case you change your mind about changing presets,
since there is no way to “cancel” selecting a new preset to load.

A thermometer bar along the left side of the window indicates where you are in the list of presets. All User
Presets are added onto the end of the list, so they will be found when the bar is toward the bottom of the
thermometer.

Daypart Automation

Presets can be scheduled in advance to automatically load based upon specific daypart requirements.
Dayparting can be set to occur on specific days, on a daily basis, on weekdays-only or on weekends-only. The
daypart schedule and settings can also be saved to the PC Card.

Even though dayparting can be configured using the Omnia menus, it is far easier to set up and adjust the
dayparting using the Daypart Table Editor included with the Omnia Remote Control application. See Daypart
Editor in Chapter 10, Accessories, for more information on using this editor.

Input Source Selection & Analog Input Gain Adjustment

The following two exercises are a useful introduction to the Omnia user interface. Start from the top of the
Main Menu (as displayed when the unit is first turned on). The first exercise chooses a parameter selection:

1.Rotate the jog-wheel to highlight Input & Output.

2.Select this menu item by “clicking” the jog-wheel (push
once on the jog-wheel). The Input & Output sub-menu is
presented.

3.Rotate the jog-wheel CW to scroll down to highlight Input
Source.

Input & Output

Input Levels

Output Levels

GO TO ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

Input & Output Sub-Menu

10:10AM

4.Click the jog-wheel to select Input Source. An expanded edit box appears with the word ANALOG
shown in large type (this is the default input selection).

2-6

5. Rotate the jog-wheel to alternate between the available parameter choices, in this case: ANALOG and

Edit Analog Gain setting

5.5dB

(was 0.0)

0.0 12.0

AES/EBU. Note that the choices do not “wrap around.” You must rotate the jog-wheel CCW to return to
a previous choice.

6. With ANALOG displayed, click the jog-wheel. The selection takes effect and the screen returns to the
sub-menu item (Input Source).

The next exercise adjusts a parameter that uses a value:

1. From the Input & Output sub-menu, rotate the jog-wheel until Input Levels is highlighted.

2. Click the jog-wheel to select and display the Input Levels sub-menu.

3. The highlighted item is the Analog Gain parameter. Click to select.

4. An expanded edit box appears at the bottom of the display with
a level bar displayed in the middle. Rotate the jog-wheel CW to
increase the input gain in 0.5 dB steps. Rotate the jog-wheel
CCW to decrease the input gain in 0.5 dB steps. The current
setting display “5.5 dB” updates as the jog-wheel is moved.
Just below the current setting is the previous setting display
“was 0.0.” All parameters display the previous setting below the current setting as soon as the jog-wheel
is rotated. This allows the parameter to be easily returned to its previous setting.

Analog Gain Parameter Display

Chapter 2

The Analog Gain parameter sets the gain for both channels. Normally, this adjustment is made while
monitoring the input LED meters. Peak indications hitting 0 dB (where the LEDs turn red) or a little
higher, is proper. This corresponds to a system headroom of about 18 dB. If further gain or attenuation is
required, the individual left/right channels can be adjusting using the Input Left and Input Right
parameters (which are the next menu items below Analog Gain).

5. Once the desired gain is reached, click the jog-wheel to accept and use the value and to return to the sub­menu item (Analog Gain).

All of the Omnia’s software parameters are set in similar fashion through scrolling through menus and sub­menus to select which parameter to edit. The parameter choices or values are then selected by rotating the jog­wheel until the desired setting is displayed. Clicking the jog-wheel selects the parameter value and returns to the
menu or sub-menu item.

Note: Changing the parameter value or choice changes the audio output so that changes can be auditioned in
real time.

The next chapter (Chapter 3, Processing Overview) presents an overview of the Omnia processing. Chapter 8,
Editing Presets, gives more information on editing parameters including procedures for editing the factory
presets to create your own custom presets.

2-7

revision 2.0

Operation

Omnia Menu Selections

This section presents more detailed information on each menu and sub-menu item and their parameter choices
or value settings. This procedure is used for all parameter selection and editing:

1.Use the jog-wheel to highlight a menu item or sub-menu item.

2.Click the jog-wheel to open up that item.

3.Once a parameter is displayed, highlight and click the name to open up the parameter value edit box.

4.Use the jog-wheel to adjust the value or change the parameter choice.

5.Click to accept the value and return to the sub-menu.

Audio Processing

This sub-menu has six items: Select Preset, Edit Parameters, Undo Edit, Save to Card, Save to Card As and
Editing Mode.

Select Preset

Opens up a selection box to select a factory preset or a user preset that was previously saved to the PC Card.

Edit Parameters

What happens when this menu item is selected is dependent upon the Editing Mode selection (either Normal or
Expert). Regardless of which editing mode is used, an editing change made in one mode is reflected in the other

mode’s parameter value settings. Normal mode allows nontechnical personnel to make processing changes
without having to understand details about AGC levels, attack and release times, etc.

Editing Parameters in Normal Mode

To make it easy to obtain the desired sound, only three general parameters are available: Thunder, Sizzle and
Thrust. As might be surmised from the names, Thunder deals with the bottom end bass sound, Sizzle sets the

high end sound and Thrust adjusts the voice-range or presence sound. Changing one of these three parameters is
equivalent to individually selecting (and changing) multiple Expert Mode parameter settings. For instance,
changing the Thunder setting affects the levels of the Deep, Phat and Warm Bass settings simultaneously.
Likewise, individually changing the Deep, Phat or Warm Bass settings in Expert Mode will affect the Thunder
level displayed when the editing mode is changed to Normal Mode.

Editing Parameters in Expert Mode

This is a very different editing experience than that found in Normal mode. Expert Mode opens up a processing
block diagram on the LCD screen. The first block’s name “AGC Wideband” flashes, indicating that it’s the
current parameter. To edit the AGC Wideband parameters, click the jog-wheel. A list of the parameters relevant
to that part of the processing algorithm is shown (in this case; Phase Rotator, Wideband AGC, etc.). To edit
another block’s parameters, rotate the jog-wheel until the desired block name is flashing and then click the jog­wheel. Expert Mode editing is covered in more detail in Chapter 8, Editing Presets.

Undo Edit

Restores the last edit operation.

Save to Card

Saves the current parameters to the PC Card, overwriting any previous settings saved under the current Preset
name. This function cannot be used with factory presets, since they cannot be changed. If a factory preset is
changed, and the changes should be saved, use Save to Card As to save the changes under a new name.

2-8

Chapter 2

Save to Card As

Opens up a Preset Naming dialog box to allow the Preset name to be changed before saving the preset to the PC
Card. Preset names can be up to 20 characters in length. All of the standard (non-extended) ASCII characters
are valid. Click the jog-wheel to select a highlighted character to change. Then rotate the jog-wheel to step
through all the possible characters. Once the desired character is displayed, click the jog-wheel to select that
character. The highlighting moves to the next character. When the last character is reached, rotate the jog-wheel
to highlight Save. Click to save the preset. Highlight Cancel to cancel the Save to Card As operation.

Editing Mode

Selects between Normal and Expert Edit Modes. The factory default is Normal Mode. This selection can be
password protected to prevent changes.

Input & Output

This sub-menu has five main items: Input Levels, Output Levels, Headphones, Input Source, Mono Mode, plus
two additional items (Pre-Emphasis and De-Emphasis) in the Omnia.fm / .fm.jr models and four additional
items (Asym Mode, Tilt EQ, Tilt Frequency and HP Filter) in the Omnia.am model.

Input Levels

Four parameters are under this sub-menu item: Analog Gain, Input Left, Input Right and Input Phase

Analog Gain

Active only when the analog inputs are used and when input AGC is active (the default setting). This parameter
sets the input operating reference level between -15 dBu and +4 dBu. The factory default setting is +4 dBu. To
change input sensitivity, use the jog-wheel to adjust the level in 0.5 dB steps, with 0 dB having the least amount
of gain and 12 dB having the maximum gain. Use the LED meters (set for Input Monitor) to make this
adjustment so that signal peaks read at 0 dB or a little higher. Peaks at 0 dB correspond to -18 dBFS (decibels
below Full Scale digital, i.e. the digital clip point) or headroom of 18 dB. If further gain or attenuation is
required, or if the signal levels are not balanced between channels, the Input Left and Input Right parameters
can be adjusted to compensate.

Note: The Analog Gain parameter is not active when the AGC analog input limiter is defeated (refer to the
Input switch & Jumper section on page 1-2). In this condition, the input sensitivity is fixed at +4 dBu.

Input Left and Input Right (Digital Input Level)

These level controls are active when either Analog input or AES/EBU input is selected since their adjustments
take place in the digital domain. The factory default setting is +4 dBu. To change input level, rotate the jog­wheel to adjust the level in 0.5 dB steps. Use the LED meters (set for Input Monitor) to make this adjustment so
that signal peaks read at 0 dB or a little higher. Peaks at 0 dB correspond to -18 dBFS (decibels below Full
Scale digital, i.e. the digital clip point) or headroom of 18 dB. These are the only level controls for the AES/
EBU input. For analog inputs they work in conjunction with the Analog Gain parameter and are typically used
to fine-tune the balance between the channels.

Input Phase

If the relative phase relationship of the Omnia is different from your existing system, a backup system, or the
system you may be comparing it to, it could cause your announcers to think they sound “weird” when
monitoring through the system using their headphones. If this happens, the relative phase of the Omnia is 180
degrees different from what your announcers are used to. To remedy this, you can reverse the polarity with this
menu selection.

2-9

revision 2.0

Operation

Output Levels (Digital Output Level)

Adjustment of the left/right audio levels is done in the same manner as setting the input levels, except that the
LED meters would be set for Output Monitoring. Since these settings take place before the D/A converter, the
settings affect both digital (AES/EBU) and analog outputs.

Note: Both the analog and digital AES/EBU outputs are active at the same time. Connections can be made
simultaneously to the analog and digital outputs, as well as the composite outputs on the Omnia.fm & .fm.jr.

Headphones

The front panel headphone output is active at all times and its audio signal is always flat (its de-emphasis
automatically follows the Pre-Emphasis choice on Omnia.fm & .fm.jr). This parameter adjusts the output level
for the front panel headphone jack only.

Note: The Output Levels parameter should be set before setting the Headphones level, since it affects the
headphone levels when switched for output monitoring.

Input Source

Selects whether the input is supplied by the Analog or Digital input.

Mono Mode

Selects between stereo and mono. When mono is selected, allows the left channel, right channel, or a sum of the
two input channels, to feed both left and right outputs with a mono signal.

Pre-Emphasis (for Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

For FM broadcasting worldwide, some form of time constant pre-emphasis, typically 50 µs or 75 µs, is
employed. For North and South America, 75 µs is used. In Europe, Australia and New Zealand, 50 µs is
employed. The factory default pre-emphasis setting is 75 µs. The pre-emphasis selection affects the operation of
the audio processing and is applied to both the composite and discrete outputs. The pre-emphasized signal at the
Left/Right outputs can be restored to flat, if needed, by the De-Emphasis parameter selection.

To set the Pre-Emphasis, rotate the jog-wheel to cycle through the three choices: None, 50 µs or 75 µs. Click the
jog-wheel to set the pre-emphasis selection.

Note: Normally, the None selection would not be used in FM transmission applications, but is provided in
instances where processing of a flat signal is desired. One example would be when preprocessing prior to a
satellite uplink in distributed radio networks.

De-Emphasis (for Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

The Left/Right outputs are pre-emphasized under normal circumstances, such as when feeding an outboard
stereo generator or discrete microwave studio-transmitter link. The same applies when feeding a digital exciter
from the AES/EBU output. These outputs can also be de-emphasized for installations that require a flat
response, as is the case when feeding land lines. The factory default de-emphasis setting is 75 µs.

To change the De-Emphasis setting, rotate the jog-wheel to cycle through the three choices: None, 50 µs or 75
µs. Click the jog-wheel to set the de-emphasis selection. If choosing a de-emphasis time constant, be sure it
matches the pre-emphasis time constant. Bear in mind that selecting None means that the outputs have pre­emphasis, assuming that one of the time constants was selected in Pre-Emphasis.

Note: The De-Emphasis setting does not affect the composite output, which always follows the Pre-Emphasis
setting.

Asymmetrical Modulation (Omnia.am only)

Asymmetrical positive modulation is possible by adjusting this parameter. The range of adjustment is between
+100% and +150% modulation.

2-10

Chapter 2

Tilt EQ (Omnia.am only)

Sets the amount of tilt compensation in the Omnia.am’s output. To perform the procedure, an oscillator and
oscilloscope will be required. See Chapter 5, Omnia.am for details.

Tilt Frequency (Omnia.am only)

Sets the frequency where tilt compensation starts. See Chapter 5, Omnia.am for details.

LP Filter (Omnia.am only)

Sets the frequency of the low pass filter used at the output of the Omnia.am. See Chapter 5, Omnia.am for
details.

Stereo Generator (Omnia.fm and Omnia.fm.jr only)

Six parameters are set under this sub-menu: SCA Level, Composite 1, Composite 2, Pilot Level, Phase Adjust,
and Separation. See Chapter 4, Omnia.fm for more information on the settings in this sub-menu.

Display

Three parameters are set under this sub-menu: LED Source, Contrast and Backlight.

LED Source

Sets the source for the LED meters on the Omnia’s front panel between Omnia’s Input and its Output. The
headphones follow this selection.

Contrast

Adjusts the brightness difference between the lightest and darkest segments in the front panel display. Note that
if this setting is mis-adjusted the display will “disappear.”

Backlight

Adjusts the LCD’s backlight to compensate for room brightness.

Housekeeping

An important activity after any Preset editing session or system parameter adjustment is to always save these
changes to the Omnia PC Card. It is also a good idea to occasionally backup your Omnia PC Card to another
PC Card for safe keeping away from the system. These activities are done using the Utility menu. There are
various system options available—ranging from copying the PC Card to restoring basic operational default
parameters. To access these functions, select the Utility menu. Scroll down and select System Attributes.

The Utility Menu

There are nine parameters or sub-menus reached through this menu item: About. . ., Preset, System Attributes,
Card Maintenance, Daypart Table, Security, Set Time, Set Date and Reload Software.

About

This parameter displays various screens describing the software revisions that are currently being used.

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Preset

This sub-menu has four parameters: Delete, Rename, Copy Single or Copy All. The first three function on a
single User Preset. Select Delete to permanently delete a User Preset from the PC Card. Select Rename to
change the name of an existing User Preset. Select Copy Single to copy one of the User Presets to another PC
Card. Select Copy All to select all user Presets to copy to another PC Card.

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Operation

System Attributes

There are three parameters under this sub-menu item: Load Defaults, Load From Card and Save to Card.

Load Defaults

Reloads all of the default parameters into the system. This is the same as a warm boot command on a computer.
All Input & Output levels are reset to the factory default settings.

Load From Card

Allows processing settings to be loaded into the system from a different PC Card. When selected, follow the
instructions presented on the LCD screen to perform this function.

Save To Card

Creates a backup of the system software and writes it to the PC Card. This is a good safety practice that will
create a backup of data that is also stored in the nonvolatile RAM within the Omnia. Think of this as a PC Card
backup to what is stored internally. When selected, a naming dialog box appears.

Card Maintenance

From the Utility sub-menu, the Card Maintenance sub-menu gives access to PC Card maintenance. Two
choices are provided:

Copy Entire

Allows the user to make a duplicate of the PC Card which could be used in a different Omnia processor.
Caution: It should restated here that when making a copy of the PC Card, spares must be obtained from

Cutting Edge. Failure to do so may result in damage to the unit, which will void the warranty.

Erase User Data

Choose this selection when you want to erase all user information on the PC Card. When this function is
selected, the PC Card is restored to the initial default settings, and only the factory presets are available. This
restores the card to a condition when first delivered from the factory. Before this function is implemented, a
pop-up screen will ask for confirmation before actually erasing the card. Follow the instructions presented on
the screen to carry out this function.

Daypart Table

The audio processing in the Omnia can be automatically adjusted by dayparts. This permits different presets to
be invoked according to a schedule that you create. The start day can be any specific day of the week, weekdays
(M-F), weekends (S-S), or every day (All). Dayparts must end within a 24 hour period. Over 450 individual
events can be programmed within a 7-day interval. Sub-menus allow viewing and setup of dayparts. These sub­menus include:

Show All

Displays all of the currently defined dayparts through a series of dialog boxes.

Add Part

Permits the creation of dayparts. Using various screens, you can select the start day and time, the end time, and
preset.

Note: If there is no daypart selected for an interval of time, the system defaults to the preset selected by the user
before dayparting is enabled.

Note: You can cancel the Add Part operation at any time by selecting the Cancel option on any of the daypart
Add Part screens. The system will warn the user if the daypart being added overlaps one of the dayparts already

defined.

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Chapter 2

Modify Part

Permits editing of dayparts already created. The system prompts the user to select one of the currently defined
dayparts, and then displays the same sequence that the user would see when doing an Add Part, allowing you to
edit the daypart. The user can then change the start day and time, end time, or preset associated with the daypart
being edited.

Remove Part

Permits removal of a daypart. The system prompts the user to select one of the currently defined dayparts, and
then prompts the user with a Continue To Delete? dialog with a Yes/No option. If the user selects Yes, the
selected daypart is deleted.

Load from Card

Retrieves daypart data stored on the PCMCIA card. This operation will restore any dayparts that were
previously saved to the card with the Save to Card operation, described below.

Save to Card

Backs up daypart information onto the PCMCIA card (for safety and sharing with others). It saves all of the
currently defined dayparts and the daypart state to the Omnia PC card. These settings can be loaded later by
selecting the Load from Card option.

Current State [Enabled/Disabled]

Activates or deactivates the use of created dayparts. If Enabled, then the system will automatically change
presets as specified by any of the dayparts defined. If Disabled, then the system will not use any of the dayparts
defined.

Security

Security permits “lockout” of the unit to prevent unauthorized personnel from making adjustments to the
Omnia. Normal mode allows read-only access to the Omnia and its menu structures. Engineer mode allows
full access to control of the unit. Sub-menus include:

Lock Unit

Immediately locks the unit. A dialog box is presented for password entry to unlock the unit.

Log-in

Permits access at one of two security levels (Normal or Engineer), using the appropriate password. Normal
mode allows read-only access to the Omnia and its menu structures. An Engineer mode allows full access to
control of the unit. Default passwords supplied with the unit are:

Normal mode: vito (all lower case)
Engineer mode: tomtom (all lower case)
Note: You can only Log-in at the same access level at which the unit was locked. In other words, if you locked

the unit while in the Engineer mode, you must supply the Engineer password. If you locked the unit in the
Normal mode, either the Normal or Engineer passwords will unlock the unit.

Caution: Do not attempt to assign the same password to both security levels! You will lock yourself out
permanently!

To change a password, use the standard click and turn of the jog-wheel to select the character position you wish
to change, and to select the character for that position.

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After choosing a new password, continue rotating the jog-wheel until OK is highlighted. Push on the jog-wheel.
The password is now saved. If you wish to cancel this operation, just scroll onto the Cancel box and press the
jog-wheel. The operation is canceled.

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Operation

Lock Password

Allows changing the name of the password for “Normal” access. Can be performed either from “Normal” or
“Engineer” security levels.

Engineer Password

Allows changing the name of the password for “Engineer” access. Can be performed either only from the
“Engineer” security level.

Enable Remote

Allows remote control access to individual system parameters previously inhibited by the Disable Remote
command (see below). In other words, you can selectively cancel individual parameters that were disabled for
remote access. A list of parameters that have been disabled, through the Disable Remote menu, to remote users
is displayed. When a parameter is selected, it becomes available to “Engineer” password users to edit through
the remote software. Selecting None exits the Enable Remote screen without changing the current settings.

Disable Remote

Allows the user to restrict access to a list of system parameters so that remote users won’t be able to change the
selected parameters. When the Disable Remote option is selected, a list of the system parameters that are
editable through the remote is displayed. When a parameter is selected, it is no longer editable through the
remote command interpreter. Selecting None exits the Disable Remote screen without disabling any
parameters. To restore a parameter so that it can be edited by remote users, use the Enable Remote option.

Set Time

Sets the current time for the unit, which needs to be performed before dayparts can be used. The time is set
using the familiar “turn and push” action of the jog wheel.

Note: The time can be synchronized to “:00” seconds by pressing the jog wheel in synchronization with the
seconds indicator of an external clock. To maintain accurate dayparting, periodically reset the internal clock to
your external reference.

Note: An additional menu will prompt you to set the unit to Daylight Saving or Standard time.

Set Date

Sets the current date, which needs to be performed before dayparts can be used. The date is set using the
familiar “turn and push” action of the jog wheel.

Control Port Baud

This option sets the communications port communications parameters.

Reload Software

This option loads the operating software from the PC Card into the Omnia memory.

Bargraph Display Screens

Two bargraph screens are available on the Omnia.fm and Omnia.dab models: one for the AGC activity and a
second for the Limiter activity. The Omnia.fm.jr, Omnia.am, Omnia.net models have only one combined
“Process” bargraph screen showing the WideBand AGC bargraph and either three or four limiter bargraphs.

The bargraph screens are displayed by pressing the front panel push-button. This changes the LCD from
showing menus to displaying the AGC screen (or the single Proc bargraph display in some models). Rotate the
jog-wheel clockwise to display the Limiter activity bargraphs. Rotate the jog-wheel counterclockwise to return
to the AGC activity bargraphs.

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Chapter 2

0dB

-10dB

-20dB

AGC

WIDE LOW MID PRES HIGH

0dB

-10dB

-20dB

LIM

LOW MID PRES HIGH

0dB

-10dB

-20dB

PROCESS

WIDE LOW MID HIGH

AGC Display

The mode of operation for the AGC section is
basically the same for both the WideBand AGC and
the multiband AGCs. Each AGC section has an
individual GATED indicator that operates as
determined by the individual Gate setting for that
particular band. The bargraphs are capable of
indicating up to 25 dB of gain reduction on a linear
scale.

Note: The only operating difference between the wideband and multiband AGCs is that the wideband AGC will
“recover” to a platform of 10 dB of gain reduction if it is gated over a long period of time. If gating occurs in
the multiband section, recovery behavior will depend on the Return to Platform (RTP) settings employed (see
Chapter 8, Editing Presets, for an explanation of RTP).

Omnia AGC Activity Bar gr aph Display

Limiter Display

The Limiter bargraphs provide a wealth of
information about Omnia’s peak control. The
limiter algorithms have the ability to modify the
style of peak control that is employed on a moment
by moment basis. This can be seen if observed over
a period of time, say a few minutes. During normal
operation, the limiter indicators will have a
dynamic “bounce” that you will be able to get a feel
for. But every now and then, the limiter will very quickly show a large amount of gain reduction. Notice that the
response is very fast. To accommodate this indication, Omnia provides an additional indicator bar that shows
the most recent indication of large scale gain control. This action will recover very slowly, and return to “rest”
with the main bargraph. This action will be easily noticed on material that is very dynamic in texture.

Omnia Limiter Activity Barg raph Display

Another feature of the limiters, which is not indicated by a separate indicator, is the limiter “Hold” function.
During brief pauses in limiter activity the bargraphs will “freeze” to show that the limiter has entered the Hold
function of the algorithm; this is akin to the GATE function in the AGCs. This will be easily noticed whenever
there is a “dry” voice being processed. The Limiter bargraphs, like the AGC section, can indicate up to 25 dB of
gain reduction.

Process Display

The wideband AGC section has an individual
GATED bargraph that operates as determined by
the Gate setting for that band. The bargraph is
capable of indicating up to 25 dB of gain
reduction.

Note: It is normal for the wideband AGC to
“recover” to a platform of 10 dB of gain
reduction if it is gated over a long period of time.

Refer to page 8-3 (Editing Presets chapter) for more information on interpreting and using the various bargraph
displays.

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Omnia.fm.jr, Omnia.am and Omnia.net

Single Bargraph Display

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