SoundPals™
DA-14 User Guide
AES Distribution Amplifier
Printing History
SoundPals™ DA-14 AES Distribution Amplifier
Rev. N/C
JANUARY 2015
Printed in U.S.A.
Part Number 08-2051-00
The information contained in this guide is subject to change without notice or obligation.
Copyrights and Trademarks
© 2015
Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of RJM & Associates.
Reproduction or reverse engineering of copyrighted software is prohibited.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.
Warranty Statement
RJM & Associates, LLC warrants that the equipment it manufactures is free from defects in workmanship and
materials and meets applicable published specifications. Equipment that has been operated within published ratings
and has not been subjected to abuse or modification, and which fails because of such defects, will be replaced or
repaired at the Company’s discretion if it is returned, freight prepaid, to RJM within three years of receipt.
This warranty supersedes all other Warranties, express or implied. RJM & Associates is not liable for any
consequential damages.
Company Address
RJM & Associates, LLC
175 Joerschke Drive
Suite A
Grass Valley, CA 95945
530-205-3437
info@rjmandassociates.com
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ii
Introduction 1
What are SoundPals? .............................................................................................................. 1
Documentation Conventions .................................................................................................... 1
Signals and Values .................................................................................................................. 1
Warnings .................................................................................................................................. 1
Unpacking and Inspection ....................................................................................................... 2
Power Supply Note .................................................................................................................. 2
DA-14 3
About the DA-14 ...................................................................................................................... 3
DA-14 Installation .................................................................................................................... 5
Connecting Power ............................................................................................................. 5
Connecting Inputs ............................................................................................................. 5
Connecting Outputs........................................................................................................... 5
DA-14 Operation and Application ............................................................................................ 6
DA-14 Interconnection ............................................................................................................. 7
Basic Digital Distribution ................................................................................................... 7
Multiple Outputs ................................................................................................................ 8
DA-14 Internal Jumpers ........................................................................................................... 9
DA-14 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................ 9
DA-14 Specifications ............................................................................................................. 10
Audio Specifications ........................................................................................................ 10
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions ............................................................... 11
Inside the Module ........................................................................................... 11
In This Section ....................................................................................................................... 11
Before You Begin ................................................................................................................... 11
Opening the Module .............................................................................................................. 11
Closing the Module ................................................................................................................ 12
External Power ................................................................................................ 12
About Power Supplies ........................................................................................................... 12
CE Compliance ...................................................................................................................... 12
Portable Power Sources ........................................................................................................ 12
Power Supply Specifications ................................................................................................. 12
Power Supply Sources .......................................................................................................... 13
ii • Table of Contents DA-14 User Guide
Page
1
Introduction
What are SoundPals?
Each RJM & Associates SoundPals module is essentially a digital audio building block that can
be used independently, or interconnected to perform more advanced mixing and audio
processing functions.
SoundPals can be used in both standalone and system configurations:
• In a “standalone” configuration, each SoundPals module is designed to perform a specific
audio processing function such as ADAT-to-Analog conversion. In this way, each module
functions as a perfect low-cost adjunct to larger mixing consoles (such as the GrahamPatten D/ESAM series) — for single-purpose processing tasks.
• In a “system” configuration, SoundPals can be linked to form more comprehensive digital
audio tools. For field recording, studio applications, and workstation applications,
SoundPals can be used to seamlessly perform functions that would otherwise require
extensive peripheral gear. Best of all, SoundPals “systems” can be re-configured quickly
and easily — to suit your changing audio production requirements.
All SoundPals modules are extremely compact, rugged, and identical in size for ease of
installation, interconnection, and use. In addition, SoundPals support AES3id. This allows
longer, more robust AES signal distribution using standard coaxial cable. Error free distances of
1000 feet can be attained using inexpensive coaxial cables.
Documentation Conventions
The following documentation conventions are used in this guide:
• Buttons, knobs, connectors, and switches are indicated in bold-faced capital letters. For
example:
Adjust the left GAIN TRIM to …
• Primary sections are listed in bold text, with a line above:
Primary Section
• Secondary sections are listed in bold text, with no line:
Secondary Section
Signals and Values
Note the following important information regarding audio signal level:
• AES3 = Balanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
• AES3id = Unbalanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
Warnings
Please observe the following important warnings:
• Heed all warnings on the unit and in the instructions.
• Do not use this product in or near water.
• Route power cords and other cables so that they are not likely to be damaged.
Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use only a
damp cloth.
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2
Unpacking and Inspection
When you receive your SoundPals modules, inspect the cartons for signs of damage. Contact
your dealer and the shipper immediately if you suspect any damage has occurred during
shipping. Check the contents of each box to be sure that all parts are included. If any items are
missing, contact your dealer immediately.
Power Supply Note
SoundPals are delivered with a power connector only. A separate power supply must be
obtained. RJM & Associates offers several power solutions for both domestic and international
customers. Refer to “External Power” for detailed power specifications for users who wish to
configure their own power source, rather than purchase one from RJM.
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3
DA-14
About the DA-14
The RJM & Associates SoundPals DA-14 is a one-input, four-output “data regenerator” for
distributing AES digital audio signals. Two versions of the DA-14 are available:
• Model A
The DA-14/A provides four balanced AES3 outputs on XLR connectors.
• Model B
The DA-14/B provides four unbalanced AES3id outputs on BNC connectors.
NOTE The printed legend on the rear panel indicates the DA-14 model.
Both models include one AES3 input (on an XLR connector) and one AES3ID input (on a BNC
connector). Note that only one input can be used at a time.
The DA-14 offers the following features:
• Choice of balanced AES outputs (XLR) or unbalanced AES3id outputs (BNC).
• Terminating or bridging inputs
• Accepts (and regenerates) any AES or AES3id digital input signal between 30 KHz and
50 KHz sampling frequency.
• Power and Status LEDs
• Optional rack mounting tray (1 RU)
• Compact size, rugged construction
The figure below illustrates the DA-14’s front panel:
DA-14
AES IN
I/P ERR
2 4
31
PWR
DA-14
1) AES Balanced Input — the AES IN XLR connector accepts a balanced AES input
signal.
2) AES Unbalanced Input — the AES IN BNC connector accepts an unbalanced AES
input signal.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
3) I/P ERR — this LED lights when no signal is applied to the input, or when the signal is not
valid. A non-valid signal exhibits errors such as format violations, bit errors, low level, or
incorrect frequency. When I/P ERR is lit, output is muted.
4) Power LED — the green LED lights when power is applied.
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4
The figure below illustrates the DA-14’s rear panel.
2
+6V
MODEL A
200mA
3 4 5 61
MADE IN THE USA
AES OUT 1 AES OUT 2 AES OUT 3 AES OUT 4
1) DA-14 Model — the printed legend indicates the model:
A (AES, balanced) or
B (AES3ID, unbalanced)
NOTE The Model A (with balanced XLRs) is shown above. The Model B provides
unbalanced BNC connectors.
2) Power Connector — accepts the power jack from the 6 VDC power supply. Refer to
“External Power” for more information regarding external power.
3) AES Output #1
4) AES Output #2
5) AES Output #3
6) AES Output #4
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5
DA-14 Installation
This section provides instructions for connecting power, digital inputs, and digital outputs.
Connecting Power
Plug a 6 VDC power supply into the appropriate voltage outlet for your specific country, and
connect the end of the cord into the DA-14 rear panel jack marked +6V. Secure the locking ring
finger tight. The green LED on the front panel lights when power is applied.
Connecting Inputs
Connect a digital input signal, between 30 KHz and 50 KHz sampling frequency, to one of the two
inputs marked AES IN on the front of the product. Both AES3 and AES3id inputs are provided.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
The inputs are normally terminated internally with 110 Ω (AES3) and 75 Ω (AES3id). When it is
necessary to loop an input signal to several SoundPals, the signal must be terminated only once,
and always at the last unit in the chain.
Refer to the “DA-14 Internal Jumpers” section for information on changing input termination.
NOTE
The I/P ERR LED lights until a valid AES input signal is applied.
Connecting Outputs
Take the digital audio output from one of the four connectors marked AES OUT, and route it to
the input of the desired destination device. Repeat the procedure for all digital outputs as
required. Each output is identical in content to the input signal.
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6
DA-14 Operation and Application
Because of the fundamental simplicity of the DA-14, there are no operating procedures apart from
applying an input signal, connecting outputs, and applying power. There are no level
adjustments, as the unit puts out a standard level. In addition, no reference is required as the
DA-14 locks to the AES input signal.
In addition to basic distribution, two additional DA-14 applications should be noted:
• S/PDIF to AES conversion
Because the DA-14 can operate in a range as low as 165mv, it can be used as an
S/PDIF to AES converter. By using an S/PDIF adapter on your S/PDIF source and
connecting it to the DA-14’s BNC input, you can achieve full level AES output (times
four), provided that the source output is above the 165mv threshold. Note that S/PDIF
adapters (BNC to RCA Phono) are readily available at consumer electronics stores.
• Multiple output capability
To configure two or more DA-14 units for multiple outputs (beyond the basic four),
remove the terminating jumpers, place a BNC “T” on the input connector, and bridge as
many DA-14s as required to produce the required number of outputs. In this
configuration, ensure that the last DA-14 in the chain is terminated — either internally or
externally with a 75 Ω terminator on the BNC “T” connector.
Refer to the following “DA-14 Interconnection” section for an illustration of this “multiple
output” configuration. Refer to the “DA-14 Internal Jumpers” section for information on
changing input termination.
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7
DA-14 Interconnection
This section provides two basic DA-14 interconnection diagrams.
• Basic Digital Distribution
In this application, the DA-14’s input is connected to an AES source (such as the ADC-
24). The unit’s four AES digital outputs are connected to AES destination devices in your
facility. Note that both DA-14 models are shown.
Facility Routing Switcher (Digital)
DAT Recorder
Analog
ATR
Workstation
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
SoundPals ADC-24
D/ESAM Mixer
PWR
AES Out
R Trim
L Trim
To Destination Digital Devices
PWR
AES Out 1
AES Out 2
AES Out 3
AES Out 4
SoundPals DA-14 (Model A)
PWR
AES3ID Out 1
AES3ID Out 2
AES3ID Out 3
AES3ID Out 4
SoundPals DA-14 (Model B)
AES In
AES In
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• Multiple Outputs
In this application, three DA-14 units are bridged together to produce 12 identical AES
outputs. Note that the last DA-14 in the chain is terminated externally with a 75 Ω
terminator.
NOTE All internal termination jumpers should be removed for this configuration. Refer
to the “DA-14 Internal Jumpers” section for information.
To Destination Digital Devices
AES In
AES In
AES In
75-Ohm
Term.
BNC
"T"
BNC
"T"
BNC
"T"
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
SoundPals ADC-24
Analog
ATR
PWR
AES Out
R Trim
L Trim
PWR
AES3ID Out 1
AES3ID Out 2
AES3ID Out 3
AES3ID Out 4
SoundPals DA-14 (Model B)
To Destination Digital Devices
PWR
AES3ID Out 1
AES3ID Out 2
AES3ID Out 3
AES3ID Out 4
SoundPals DA-14 (Model B)
To Destination Digital Devices
PWR
AES3ID Out 1
AES3ID Out 2
AES3ID Out 3
AES3ID Out 4
SoundPals DA-14 (Model B)
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9
DA-14 Internal Jumpers
Jumper
Jumper
•
This section provides information about the DA-14’s internal jumpers and adjustments.
NOTE
For detailed instructions on opening and closing the DA-14, see “Inside the
Module.”
J902
J903
DA-14
04-0231-
Input
V-Flag
Termination
• To change the AES reference input from terminating to bridging, remove jumper J902.
• To change the I/P ERR LED such that it also detects the V-Flag (Validity Flag) in addition
to invalid AES signals, place jumper J903 between pins 2 and 3. When the jumper is
between pins 1 and 2, the LED only indicates invalid AES signals (this is the default
position).
DA-14 Troubleshooting
The table below lists several DA-14 problems, and provides a variety of “checklist” procedures
designed to solve them.
Problem Procedure
No signal at any
AES or AES3id
output.
No signal (or
improper signal) at a
“bridged” DA-14 unit.
NOTE Please contact the RJM factory if the problem still exists after completing the
above procedures.
DA-14 User Guide
•
Is power applied? Check the power LED and power supply.
•
Is a valid AES input signal connected? Check I/P ERR LED off.
•
Is the input signal silent? Check the signal source.
•
Are the outputs correctly connected to the destination devices?
Is the sampling frequency within 4% of 48 KHz, 44.1 KHz, or 32 KHz?
•
Are the DA-14 units properly bridged?
•
Are the terminating jumpers removed?
•
Is the last DA-14 unit in the chain properly terminated?
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10
DA-14 Specifications
This section provides environmental and audio specifications.
Audio Specifications
Specification
Digital Inputs
AES3
Min. eye opening: 200 mV x 0.5 UI
Input impedance:
Sample frequency: 30-50 KHz
Maximum input: 7V p-p
AES3id
Min. eye opening: 165 mV x 0.5 UI
Input impedance:
Return loss: >15 dB (0.1-6 MHz)
Sample frequency: 30-50 KHz
Model A (AES3)
Amplitude: 4.5V p-p
Rise time: 5-30 ns
Output impedance:
Common mode: <-30 dB (0-6 MHz)
Model B (AES3id)
Amplitude: 1.0V ±0.2V p-p
Rise time: 37±7 ns
Output impedance:
Return loss: >15 dB (0.1-6 MHz)
DC on output <50 mV
Peak jitter gain 0 dB
Jitter attenuation >5 dB @ 100 KHz
>70 dB @ 6 MHz
110 Ω or bridging
75 Ω or bridging
Digital Outputs
Terminated in 110 Ω
110 Ω ±20% (0.1-6 MHz)
Terminated in 75 Ω
75 Ω
Data Jitter
RT-2, 1RU rack tray for mounting up to 3 units
Power supplies:
•
PSU-1, 90-260V 50/60Hz in-line power supply with detachable IEC power cord
NOTE
All specifications listed above subject to change without notice.
Options
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11
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions
Parameter Specification
Dimensions
(less connectors)
Power 375 mA @ 6 Vdc
Operating Temp.
Operating Humidity 10 – 90% RH non-condensing
5.2W x 1.62H x 6.625D
13.2 x 4.1 x 16.8 cm
10 – 50 °C
Inside the Module
In This Section
This section provides instructions for opening and closing the SoundPals DA-14 module to gain
access to the internal circuit board.
NOTE The internal circuit board should only be removed from the module if you want to
reset the jumpers.
Before You Begin
Check the following items before opening the module and attempting to remove the internal
circuit board:
If required, remove the SoundPals module from the rack tray.
Disconnect the power supply from the front of the product.
Disconnect all input and output cables.
Perform the remaining steps only in a static free environment. Make sure that you and
the product are both grounded.
The following tools are required:
• #2 Philips screwdriver
Opening the Module
Use the following steps to open the DA-14 module:
1. On the rear panel, remove the four Phillips screws from the four corners of the
SoundPals module.
2. On the front panel, remove all Philips XLR mounting screws from the module.
3. On the front panel (if BNC connectors are present), remove the BNC nut(s) and
associated lock washer(s).
4. Pulling the rear panel, carefully draw the internal circuit board and rear panel assembly
from the housing.
CAUTION If BNC connectors are present, keep the case horizontal so that the bushings
stay with the connectors.
5. Set the housing and all mounting hardware in a safe place.
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Closing the Module
Use the following steps to close the DA-14 module:
1. Ensure that product label is on the bottom.
2. Carefully slide the internal circuit board and rear panel assembly through the housing. If
BNC connectors are present, keep the case horizontal so that the bushings stay with the
connectors.
3. If required, replace all BNC nut(s) and associated lock washer(s) on the front panel of the
module.
4. Replace all Philips XLR mounting screws on the front panel of the module.
5. Replace and tighten the four Phillips screws on the rear corners of the module.
CAUTION Do not over tighten the screws.
External Power
About Power Supplies
An external power supply conforming to the specifications listed in the following “Power Supply
Specifications” section must be used to guarantee that published SoundPals performance
figures are met. Any power supply meeting these specifications will supply adequate power for a
single SoundPals module. Although the specification is written for power supplies running from
AC line inputs, DC (battery) sources may be used if they meet all of the listed requirements.
CE Compliance
For CE compliance, the power supply that you use must comply with the following requirements:
• Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
• EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
• EMC Directive 93/68/EEC
• The connector locking ring must be tight.
Portable Power Sources
For portable SoundPals power sources, sealed lead-acid, nickel cadmium or alkaline primary
batteries may be used. However, the maximum voltage must not exceed 8.6 volts, and a
minimum of 5.6 volts is required for normal operation. Maximum current drain will be 402 mA.
Power Supply Specifications
The following specifications must be met over all anticipated operating conditions including AC
power line range, temperature range, etc.
Parameter Specification
Output voltage 5.6 V minimum (measured at trough of ripple) at 402 mA constant current.
8.6 V maximum (measured at peak of ripple) at 262 mA constant current.
Ripple voltage 2 V p-p at 700 mA constant current.
Connector Switchcraft 761K with center positive, sleeve negative.
400 mV p-p at 700 mA constant current with external 2200 µF capacitor.
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Power Supply Sources
In addition to the RJM-supplied universal power supply, the following power supplies meet the
SoundPals requirements:
Company Model Note
Stancor STA-4860 120V AC, 60 Hz
Stancor STAF-0797F 220V AC, 50 Hz with European wall plug (CE compliant).
Elpac MI2007
95-250V AC, 47-63 Hz with IEC inlet (line cord required). Will power up to six units
(CE compliant).
DA-14 User Guide
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