Rane FLEX User Manual

Professional Audio Products Data Sheet
FLEX
MODULAR SIGNAL PROCESSING
Flex Series Modular Signal Processors
General Description
Ranes Flex Series of modular signal processors repre­sents a milestone in system flexibility, quality and cost­effectiveness. Unlike previous modular approaches, the Flex Series requires no expensive mainframe in order to operate. Each module is self-contained and interfaces directly with other professional audio gear via 3-pin, screw terminals, ¼" and DIN connectors. A multi-pin bus system on Flex mixer modules reduces interconnect wiring to a single short DIN cable (supplied), yet provides the kind of multiple program capability found on large, expensive mixing consoles.
Each Flex module conforms to the industry standard HR (Half Rack) mechanical specifications, allowing vertical or horizontal, recessed or flush mounting into standard EIA equipment racks. Vertical mounting is achieved via a low-cost metal frame which holds 10 modules and occupies 6 rack spaces (10.5"). All active modules are powered externally by either the small RS 1, UL listed, CSA certified, IEC compat­ible power supply shipped with each unit, or by the vertical­mount FRS 8 Flex unit, or by the horizontal RAP 10 power supply. This low voltage external power supply systemalso
being standardized by the pro audio industrysignificantly improves signal quality, minimizes system grounding problems, and qualifies all Flex modules for Class 2 operation per the National Electrical Code. This means Flex systems carry automatic agency acceptance (UL, CSA, ETL, etc.) without the expensive approval process, allowing the timely development of top quality equipment at more competitive prices.
system can be custom tailored to its exact requirements, without the wasted costs of buying more than you need. And designed-in expandability means you can start with minimum outlay and increase system capability as the need and budget allow. This is particularly true when assembling a mixing system with Flex. Any size 4-bus mixer can be assembled with just the right number and type of inputs and equalization. Even a small start-up system offers features such as two separate source-selectable auxiliary buses, insert loops, phantom power and much more. Superlative quality, perfor­mance and flexibility distinguish the Flex Series.
Flexibility is the key concept for the Flex Series. Each
Features
 SELF-CONTAINED MODULES
 MAINFRAME NOT REQUIRED
 REMOTE UL/CSA/TUV AC POWER
 HIGHEST QUALITY PERFORMANCE
 EXTREMELY LOW NOISE AND DISTORTION
FLEX
MODULAR SIGNAL PROCESSING
Professional Audio Products Data Sheet
Features and Specifications
Parameter Specification Limit Units Condition s/Comments
Input Impedance
..........Line 20k 1% Ohms Each Leg to Ground
..........Mic 1k 1% Ohms Differential
Max Input Level
.........Line +20 1 dBu
.........Mic +0 1 dBu
Input Design Active Balanced/Unbalanced True Instrumentation Amplifier Input Connectors 3-pin, ¼" TRS, Screw Terminal Check Individual Data sheets RFI Input Filters Yes Max Output Level +20 1 dBu 2k Ohms or greater
+18 1 dBu 600 Ohms or greater Output Impedance 100 1% Ohms Each Leg to Ground Output Design Active Balanced/Unbalanced Cross-Coupled or Differential
Line Drivers Output Connectors 3-pin, ¼" TRS, Screw Terminal Check Individual Data Sheets Frequency Response 20-20 kHz .25 dB THD + Noise .03 .01 % +4 dBu, 20-20 kHz IM Distortion (SMPTE) .03 .01 % +4 dBu Signal-to-Noise Ratio 106/90 (re +20 dBu / +4 dBu) 1 dB Unity Gain, 20 kHz BW Overload LED Threshold +16 1 dBu All critical nodes monitored Power Supply Input 18 VAC w/center tap 10% Vrms Power Supply Connector 6-pin mod plug Remote Power Supply Model RS 1 Included See RS 1 Data Sheet Safety Agency
..........Classification Class 2 Equipment National Electrical Safety Code
..........Design Safety Extra-Low Voltage VDE SELV
..........U.L. Listing U.L. 813 Exempt Class 2
..........C.S.A. Certification C22.2 No. 1 Exempt Class 2
..........CENELEC IEC 65 Exempt Harmonization Doc. HD 195.S4
Unit
..........Construction All Steel HR Compatible
..........Size (typical) 8.5"H x 1.75"W x 8"D (21.6 cm x 4.4 cm x 20.3 cm )
..........Size FSC 22 (only) 8.5"H x 1.75"W x 9"D (21.6 cm x 4.4 cm x 23 cm)
..........Weight (typical) 4 lb (1.8 kg)
Shipping
..........Size 6" x 12.5" x 12.5" (15.2 cm x 31.8 cm x 31.8 cm)
..........Weight (typical) 6 lb (w/power supply) (2.7 kg)
..........Weight FBB 44 5 lb (2.3 kg)
..........Weight FAC 28 7 lb (w/power supply) (3.2 kg)
..........Weight FLM 82 7 lb (w/power supply) (3.2 kg)
..........Weight FSC 22 7 lb (w/power supply) (3.2 kg)
..........Weight FHA 19 1 lb (.5 kg)
..........Weight FHL 2 1 lb (.5 kg)
..........Weight FHT 2 7 lb (3.2 kg)
..........Weight FSB 1 1 lb (.5 kg)
..........Weight FSC 10 4 lb (1.8 kg)
..........Weight FVR 10 6 lb (2.7 kg)
Note: 0 dBu=0.775 Vrms
Professional Audio Products Data Sheet
FLEX
MODULAR SIGNAL PROCESSING
Application Information
Flex module design allows both system and stand-alone applications. All modules are complete and functional without other Flex units, and may be used alone or in conjunction with other manufacturers products.
Modules exist with or without bus facilities. Modules without bus options are designed for insert loops and signal path series connection. Examples of these are equalizers, crossovers, and dynamic processors (compressors, limiters, etc.). Modules with buses fall into the mixer category. Examples range from single input full-featured mic input channels, to multi-input stereo line mixers.
Mixer Module Bus and Routing Details
The Flex bus system is comprised of four independent buses. These are labeled Master A/B and Aux A/B. Tremen­dous flexibility exists when using the Flex bus system. Hopefully, the following block diagrams of these Flex mixing modules will help clarify the different bus options. These are offered as an aid in designing systems.
Important differences distinguish each type of module. Beginning at the end, the FMM 42 Mixer Master output module terminates the bus system and supplies metering. The bus-through feature allows paralleling of output modules when required.
To begin or to add to the bus you choose between three modules: The FMI 14 functions identical to a standard mic input channel on a large mixing board. Please note the assignable Aux Send feature.
The FPM 44 Program Mixer trades off the EQ and looping features of the FMI 14 for multiple mic or line level inputs. Four mic/line inputs exist on the FPM 44 and the Aux Sends are assignable Pre- or Post-fader.
The FLM 82, bus-wise, is similar to the FMI 14 or FPM 44, except restricted to line level inputs, with assignable Aux sends. Note that the FLM 82 can also terminate the bus system, if desired, with provisions for looping the Aux bus inputs into the Master outputs.
Please ask for the Flex Users Guide and the indi­vidual module data sheets for complete details.
Architectural Specifications
The modular signal processing components shall be 8.5 inches by 1.75 inches by either 8.25 inches, or 9.25 inches deep and shall be housed in an all-steel chassis. Each module shall have a provision for ground-lift. Each modules power supply input shall conform to the proposed AES RAP (Remote AC Power) standard. Each modules physical limits and mounting criteria shall conform to the industrys HR standard (HR1-1988, R789) allowing full compatibility with other such devices.
Each module in the system shall furnish a power-on LED. Each module in the system shall contribute less than .03% THD+Noise, and less than .03% Intermodulation Distortion per the SMPTE measurement standard.
Each module in the system shall have a line level input
impedance of 20k Ohms. Each microphone input shall have an input impedance of 1k Ohms. Maximum line input levels shall be +20 dBu. Maximum microphone input levels shall be 0 dBu. Each module shall be provided with an RFI input filter.
All infrasonic filters in the system shall have a corner frequency of 15 Hz, rolling off at 18 dB/octave or greater, with a Butterworth characteristic and shall be able to be bypassed internally. The connected system frequency re­sponse shall not be less than 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±1 dB.
The unity gain signal-to-noise ratio of all modules shall be in excess of 90 dB, re +4 dB, 20 to 20 kHz. The signal threshold of all overload LEDs shall be +16 dBu.
The modular signal processing shall be Rane Corporation Flex Series.
FLEX
MODULAR SIGNAL PROCESSING
Professional Audio Products Data Sheet
Vertical Mounting Accessories
FVR 10 Vertical Rack
This 12 gauge steel frame mounts up to ten Flex modules in a 19" rack, occupying 10.5" (6U) of rack space. All mounting hardware is included. Rack ears are included with each Flex unit. This is the required rack for mounting the optional FRS 8 Power Supply.
FSB 1 Security/Blank Panel
For use only with the FVR 10. This not only covers unused blank spaces, but can serve as an individual security cover over any recess mounted module.
FSC 10 Security Cover
This completely covers the entire FVR 10 Rack when all modules are recess mounted.
Horizontal Mounting Accessories
FHT 2 Horizontal Tray
This 12 gauge steel tray is recommended for all mobile rack installations. Units mount from the top by four screws apeice, assuring a solid installation. An FHA 19 may fill the empty side when mounting only one Flex unit.
FHL 2 Horizontal Link Kit
This assembly fastens the two inside panels of two Flex units together. Side rack ears come with each Flex unit. This kit is recommended for non-mobile applications, when mounting Flex units next to other 19" rack units.
FHA 19 Horizontal Adaptor
This allows 19" rack mounting of only one Flex unit. It is a shallow metal box with an open back, and uses the rack ears enclosed with each Flex unit.
Other Flex Accessories
Mod Power Cables, 24"
These are spares from the FRS 8 or RAP 10 Power Supplies. Four to a package.
Mod Power Cables, 6'
These connect to the FRS 8 or RAP 10 Power Supplies when greater length is required. Four to a package.
Mod Connector Kit
A standard mod plug crimp tool and (25) RJ-12 plugs are included for custom cable assemblies.
Flex Bus (DIN) Connector Cables
These spares connect the Flex Bus In and Out for mixer­builders. Six feet long, three to a package.
©Rane Corporation, 10802 47th Avenue W., Mukilteo WA 98275-5098 TEL(206) 355-6000 FAX(206) 347-7757
All features & specifications subject to change without notice. 520-074 AUG95Printed in the U.S.A. on Recycled Paper
Loading...