ATTENTION! Do not open chassis – risk of electric shock
The unit has non-isolated live parts inside. No user serviceable parts inside.
Refer service to qualified service personnel.
Mains
• The device must be earthed – never use it without proper grounding
• Do not use defective power cords
• Operation of the device is limited to the manual
• Use same type of fuse only
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this device to rain or
moisture. Prevent moisture and water from entering the device. Never leave
a pot with liquid on top of the device. Do not use this product near water, i. e.
swimming pool, bathtub or wet basement. Danger of condensation inside –
don't turn on before the device has reached room temperature.
Installation
Surface may become hot during operation – ensure sufficient ventilation.
Avoid direct sun light and do not place it near other sources of heat, like radiators or stoves. When mounting in a rack, leave some space between this
device and others for ventilation.
Unauthorized servicing/repair voids warranty. Only use accessories
specified by the manufacturer.
Read the manual completely. It includes all information necessary
to use and operate this device.
With the ADI-642 you have an incredibly versatile digital interface to your supply. What at first
looks like a simple MADI/AES format converter, turns out to be a very flexible tool at a closer
look. From small project studios to broadcast and television, this Advanced Digital Interface is
the perfect solution for many tasks.
As a consequent continuation of RME's world-wide successful ADI series, the 642 also contains
elaborate technology and the latest integrated circuits. In a few words: The ADI-642 is a
uniquely powerful and high-quality device, which will excite you even after many years of operation.
2. Package Contents
Please check that your ADI-642 package contains each of the following:
• ADI-642
• Manual
• Power cord
3. Brief Description and Characteristics
The ADI-642 consists of two digital format converters in reference quality, in a standard 19" box
with 1 unit height. The compact device has numerous extraordinary features like Intelligent
Clock Control (ICC), SyncCheck, SyncAlign, SteadyClock, Auto Delay Compensation and
patchbay functionality with 72x74 channel matrix router.
All of the ADI-642 I/Os support 192 kHz/24 bit. The format conversion between MADI and
AES/EBU operates in both directions at the same time. LEDs of different colours show the present state of incoming and outgoing signals and of the internal processing in a clear way.
The unique Intelligent Clock Control (ICC) allows for a flexible use with internal clock (44.1 up to
192 kHz), external word clock or the digital input signals. These options are intelligently coupled
in a way typical for RME, and easy to apply thanks to a clear and easily understandable display
of the Lock and Sync states.
Furthermore the unique 72 x 74 Matrix Router allows to use the ADI-642 as digital patchbay,
merger and splitter. All 72 input channels, MADI and AES, can be routed to all 74 outputs –
even within the same format.
A special Auto Delay Compensation mode realizes a sample-accurate input and output signal of
all AES/EBU I/Os, even when using multiple ADI-642s. The Auto Channel Assignment mode
lets you configure the matrix of up to eight units with a single key stroke.
The ADI-642 transmits both MIDI and RS232 invisibly within the MADI data stream, maintaining
full compatibility. The unit can also be remote controlled via MIDI.
The front of the ADI-642 features nine buttons, one rotary encoder, 38 LEDs and four seven
segment displays, providing all necessary means for a detailed configuration of the unit.
MADI INPUT determines the
current input for the MADI signal
(optical/coaxial). Additionally, a
detailed input state display
analyses and presents the input
signal status.
MADI OUTPUT is used to configure the MADI output as 56/64 channel or 48k/96k frame format.
AES INPUT STATE displays the presence of a valid input signal separately for each AES input.
RME's exclusive SyncCheck indicates via flashing LEDs if one of these inputs is locked, but not
synchronous to the others.
In the CLOCK SECTION
the current clock
reference and frequency
multiplier is chosen.
REMOTE defines the
source for MIDI remote
control operation (MADI
or DIN jacks).
The MATRIX section is used to configure the routing of all inputs and outputs. Auto Delay
Compensation (ADC) prevents offsets when using multiple ADI-642s.
The MONITOR section offers a 24 bit/192 kHz capable Line/phones output to monitor the input
signals.
The rear of the ADI-642 provides all the connections: eight AES/EBU (XLR), two MADI optical,
two MADI coaxial (BNC), two word clock (BNC), two MIDI (5-pin DIN), one RS232 (D-Sub), and
mains power.
MADI I/O optical: Standard MADI ports.
MADI I/O coaxial (BNC): Standard MADI ports.
AES/EBU INPUTS (XLR): Transformer-coupled, high sensitivity, therefore accepts SPDIF sig-
WORD IN (BNC): A push switch allows to activate internal termination (75 Ohms).
WORD OUT (BNC): Standard word clock output.
IEC receptacle for power connection. The specially developed, internal hi-performance switch
mode power supply makes the ADI-642 operate in the range of 100V to 240V AC. It is shortcircuit-proof, has an integrated line filter, is fully regulated against voltage fluctuations, and suppresses mains interference.
Configuration starts with choosing the MADI input, BNC or optical. The state of the input signal
is displayed by 14 LEDs. Shown are active input, automatic input selection, receiver state,
Sync, 56 or 64 channel format, 48k frame or 96k frame, and audio data within 8-channel
groups. The Sync LED shows the synchronicity between input signal and external/internal
clock, or between the active inputs.
The MADI output signal can include 56 or 64 channels (FORMAT). The FRAME key switches
the MADI output into native Double Speed mode (96K), in case internal or external clock allow
this mode to be activated.
In the AES INPUT STATE section, each input has its own SYNC LED. One LED per (stereo)
input signals audio information within the data stream. An AES/EBU or SPDIF signal in the
range of 60 kHz to 100 kHz will turn the DS (Double Speed) LED on. An AES/EBU or SPDIF
signal in the range of 162 kHz to 200 kHz will turn the QS (Quad Speed) LED on.
The source and frequency of the unit's clock is configured in the CLOCK SECTION. The button
CLOCK lets you step through the options external clock (AES, MADI, word) and internal clock
(44.1 or 48 kHz). The button STATE sets the range for the internal, but also the external sample
rate. Selecting DS will result in 88.2 and 96 kHz, selecting QS sets 176.4 and 192 kHz.
The ADI-642 can be remote controlled by MIDI commands. The button REMOTE is used to
select the source of the MIDI remote control commands, and also the destination for the ADI642's request replies. The standard MIDI ports or the MADI input and output can be chosen.
The matrix router is always active and allows to change the routing. First choose an output by
pressing the OUTPUT select key, then use the INPUT select key to select the desired input. An
input can be assigned to as many outputs as present (splitting), but an output can not be assigned to more than one input (digital mixing).
The button ADC activates the Auto Delay Compensation, which is very useful when using multiple ADI-642 in a serial connection setup. With activated ADC the Auto Channel Assignment
mode is also available, see chapter 7.6.
The ADI-642 remembers all settings before switching off, and sets them automatically when
switching on the next time. The storing process is triggered 4 seconds after the last change,
and is signalled in the display as quickly moving point.
Each individual ADI-642 undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test at IMM
before shipping. The usage of high grade components should guarantee a long and trouble-free
operation of the unit.
If you suspect that your product is faulty, please contact your local retailer.
Audio AG grants a limited manufacturer warranty of 6 months from the day of invoice showing
the date of sale. The length of the warranty period is different per country. Please contact your
local distributor for extended warranty information and service. Note that each country may
have regional specific warranty implications.
In any case warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation or maltreatment replacement or repair in such cases can only be carried out at the owner's expense.
No warranty service is provided when the product is not returned to the local distributor in the
region where the product had been originally shipped.
Audio AG does not accept claims for damages of any kind, especially consequential damage.
Liability is limited to the value of the ADI-642. The general terms of business drawn up by Audio
AG apply at all times.
6. Appendix
RME news and further information can be found on our website:
All trademarks and registered trademarks belong to their respective owners. RME and Hammerfall are registered trademarks of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. ADI-642, SteadyClock,
ADC, SyncAlign, SyncCheck and Intelligent Clock Control (ICC) are trademarks of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. Alesis and ADAT are registered trademarks of Alesis Corp. TDIF is a
trademark of Teac Corp. ADAT optical is a trademark of Alesis Corp. S/MUX is copyright Sonorus.
All entries in this User’s Guide have been thoroughly checked, however no guarantee for correctness can be given. RME cannot be held responsible for any misleading or incorrect information provided throughout this manual. Lending or copying any part or the complete manual or its
contents as well as the software belonging to it is only possible with the written permission from
RME. RME reserves the right to change specifications at any time without notice.
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits of the European Council Directive on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to electromagnetic compatibility according to RL2004/108/EG, and European Low Voltage Directive RL2006/95/EG.
FCC
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Responsible Party in USA:
Synthax United States, 6600 NW 16th Street, Suite 10, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33313
T.:754.206.4220
Trade Name: RME, Model Number: ADI-642
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RoHS
This product has been soldered lead-free and fulfils the requirements of the RoHS directive.
Note on Disposal
According to the guide line RL2002/96/EG (WEEE – Directive on Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment), valid for all european countries,
this product has to be recycled at the end of its lifetime.
In case a disposal of electronic waste is not possible, the recycling can
also be done by IMM electronics GmbH, the manufacturer of the ADI-
642.
For this the device has to be sent free to the door to:
IMM electronics GmbH
Leipziger Straße 32
D-09648 Mittweida
Germany
Shipments not prepaid will be rejected and returned on the original sender's costs.
The button INPUT sets the input to optical or coaxial. The section INPUT STATE helps to avoid
errors caused by wrong, missing or not correctly connected inputs, and makes handling the
digital MADI format much easier. A total of 14 LEDs display the state of the current input signal.
The SYNC LED lights up as soon as a valid signal is present at the input. An un-synchronous
input signal will be signalled by flashing of the SYNC LED. A missing or invalid input signal will
cause the ERROR LED to light up.
Audio data present in the input channels is signalled by one AUDIO LED per 8-channel block.
The green LED is lit as soon as one of the channels of an 8-channel block contains audio data,
that is no longer digital zero.
64-channel and 96k frame format are displayed by one LED each. With those LEDs off, the
input signal is 56-channel and 48k frame format.
7.2 MADI OUTPUT
The buttons FRAME and FORMAT configure the MADI output signal as follows:
FRAME: 48k or 96k frame. 48k frame can be used with Single, Double and Quad Speed. 96k
frame is limited to the range 64 kHz to 96 kHz (Double Speed).
FORMAT: 56-channel or 64-channel format.
7.3 AES
The INPUT STATE of the four inputs is displayed by 10 LEDs.
Each input has its own SYNC LED. If a valid input signal is applied, SyncCheck is active automatically. SyncCheck takes the chosen clock (internal, external, etc.) as reference and compares it with the input clocks. Inputs which are not synchronous will be signalled by flashing of
the corresponding SYNC LED.
An AES/EBU or SPDIF signal in the range of 60 kHz to 100 kHz will turn the DS (Double
Speed) LED on. An AES/EBU or SPDIF signal in the range of 162 kHz to 200 kHz will turn the
QS (Quad Speed) LED on.
The LEVEL LED lights up as soon as the digital signal carries an information other than digital
zero. The channel doesn't matter. So there is only one channel of audio information necessary
for the LED to light up. The amount of level is not indicated.
The source and frequency of the unit's clock is configured in the CLOCK SECTION. The button
CLOCK lets you step through the options external clock (AES, MADI, word) and internal clock
(44.1 or 48 kHz). The button STATE sets internal, but also the external sample rate to double or
quadruple of the basic sample rate.
AES, MADI, WCK (Slave Mode)
Defines the corresponding input as clock reference. A missing or invalid clock source signal is
indicated by flashing of the corresponding LED. In case of AES: the input with the lowest number receiving a valid AES signal is used as clock reference.
44.1, 48 (Master Mode)
Activates the internal clock at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. Using the button STATE a choice of DS gives 88.2 and 96 kHz, a choice of QS gives 176.4 and 192 kHz respectively.
With a setting of 44.1 and 48 (internal clock) it is mandatory that the clock rate of the
sources is synchronous to the ADI-642. Therefore the external device has to be synchronized to the ADI-642's word clock out or MADI/AES out.
The ADI-642 thus has to be master, all devices connected to it slave. In order to avoid clicks
and drop outs due to faulty or missing synchronicity, a special process called SyncCheck com-
pares the incoming data and the ADI-642's internal clock. The SYNC state is indicated by a
flashing (error) or constantly lit (OK) LED.
The button STATE is used to configure the ADI-642, and with this all of its outputs, to the frequency ranges Single Speed, Double Speed or Quad Speed.
Single Speed (no LED)
All outputs carry a signal in the range of 32 kHz up to 48 kHz.
Double Speed (LED DS)
All AES outputs carry a signal in the range of 64 kHz up to 96 kHz. MADI stays at no higher
than 48 kHz, with the data transmitted in the S/MUX format. In case MADI OUTPUT has been
set to 96k frame, the MADI output also uses 96 kHz.
Quad Speed (LED QS)
All AES outputs carry a signal in the range of 176.4 kHz up to 192 kHz. MADI stays at no higher
than 48 kHz, with the data transmitted in the S/MUX4 format. Using the 96k frame mode with
S/MUX data transmission is not supported.
Follow Clock
In this special mode the ADI-642 follows the input clock of AES and Word automatically over all
three ranges. So at 96 kHz the DS LED automatically lights up, at 192 kHz the QS LED. A manual configuration via the STATE button is no longer required. This function is deactivated for the
MADI input, as the sample rate range of the MADI audio data can not be detected automatically.
Activation of Follow Clock: while the firmware version is shown press the CLOCK STATE button. Both LEDs DS/QS light up. Deactivation: same, both LEDs stay dark.