User's Guide
PCI-Bus Audio Card
2 / 8 Channels Stereo / ADAT® Interface
24 Bit / 48 kHz Digital Audio
32-48 kHz Sample Rate
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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Contents
1 Introduction ............................................................ 3
2 Package Contents.................................................. 3
3 System Requirements ............................................ 3
4 Brief Description and Characteristics................... 3
5 Technical Specifications
5.1 Digital.................................................................... 4
5.2 Digital Interface..................................................... 4
5.3 Transfer Modes: Resolution/Bits per Sample......... 4
6 Hardware Installation............................................. 5
7 Software Installation
7.1 Windows 9x........................................................... 5
7.2 Windows NT.......................................................... 5
7.3 Windows 2000/XP................................................. 6
7.4 Driver Deinstallation.............................................. 6
7.5 Linux/Unix............................................................. 6
8 Operation and Usage
8.1 External Connectors.............................................. 7
8.2 Internal Connectors ............................................... 7
8.3 Playback (Windows MME) ..................................... 8
8.4 Recording Digital (Windows MME) ........................ 9
8.5 Record while Play.................................................. 9
9 Configuring the DIGI 32
9.1 General................................................................10
9.2 Force Adat............................................................11
9.3 Windows 9x..........................................................11
9.4 Clock Modes - Synchronization.............................12
10 Using more than one DIGI 32 ...............................12
11 Special Features of the Digital Output.................13
12 Notes on the ADAT Interface................................14
13 Multiclient Operation ............................................14
14 Hotline – Troubleshooting
14.1 General..............................................................15
14.2 Installation..........................................................16
15 DIGICheck..............................................................17
16 TECH INFO ............................................................17
17 Warranty ................................................................18
18 Appendix ...............................................................18
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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1. Introduction
DIGI32/8 allows the recording of digital audio from CD, DAT, sampler or other digital sources directly into your computer. The installation is made very simple, even for the inexperienced user, thanks to the most up to date Plug & Play technology. The support of up to 24 bit
audio resolution and direct Hi-Speed 32 bit data transfer puts DIGI32/8 at the top of the
range of interface cards available to date. Drivers for Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000 and XP allow
a problem-free, comfortable and powerful usage on computer systems with PCI bus technology.
Our Hi-Performance philosophy guarantees full system performance in all possible functions
not carried out by the driver (and therefore from the computer´s CPU) but carried out by the
DIGI32 hardware.
2. Package Contents
Please ensure that all the following parts are included in DIGI32/8’s packaging box:
• PCI Card DIGI32/8
• Quick Info guide
• RME Driver CD
• Optical cable (TOSLINK)
• Internal cable (2 wire)
3. System Requirements
• Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP
• A free PCI bus slot
Additional system requirements such as CPU, memory etc. depend on the software used for
recording, playing and editing the audio data.
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• Short, full Plug & Play compatible PCI card
• 16 / 20 / 24 bit audio resolution
• Display of the input sample frequency and ADAT input status
• Outputs optical / cinch work simultaneous (signal distribution possible)
• Accepts Professional and Consumer Format
• Ignores copy protection
• Ground free transformer coupled inputs and outputs
• Error LED for input signal
• Low Jitter Design: < 3 ns in PLL mode (44.1 kHz, optical In)
• Sample aligned simultaneous start of record and playback in Record while Play mode
• 32 bit memory transfer guarantees low system load
• No DMA or input / output address needed
• Full Duplex (simultaneous recording and playback)
• Monitoring (pass through mode for input signal)
• High bus transfer rate (> 120 MByte/s) ensures minimal CPU / system load
• More than one card with only one driver useable (Windows)
• Automatic hardware self-test when booting
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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5. Technical Specifications
5.1 Digital
• Low Jitter Design: < 3 ns in PLL mode (44.1 kHz, optical input)
• Supported sample rates: 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 25 kHz-60 kHz via AutoSync
• High sensitive input stage (< 0.2Vss input level)
• Input PLL ensures zero dropout, even at more than 40 ns jitter
• Output voltage Consumer 0.8 V, Professional 1.6 V
• Supports all known formats mono/stereo from 16 to 24 bit
5.2 Digital Interface
• Inputs and outputs ground-free transformer coupled
• Connectors: optical (TOSLINK), coaxial (phono), internal (CD-ROM/Sync-In, Sync-Out)
• Formats: SPDIF, AES/EBU (Consumer/Professional), ADAT optical
5.3 Transfer Modes: Resolution / Bits per Sample
• 16 bit 2 bytes (stereo 4 bytes) (*)
• 20 bit 3 bytes MSB (stereo 6 bytes)
• 20 bit 4 bytes MSB (stereo 8 bytes) (*)
• 24 bit 3 bytes (stereo 6 bytes)
• 24 bit 4 bytes MSB (stereo 8 bytes) (*)
• 32 bit 4 bytes (stereo 8 bytes) (*)
All the above formats are also available in Multi-Device mode (4 x stereo = 8 channels). The
Channel Interleave mode (1 x 8) provides the following resolutions:
• 16 bit 16 bytes (*)
• 24 bit 24 bytes
• 24 bit 32 bytes (*)
* The indicated modes are directly supported by the hardware and therefore work in 32 bit hi-speed transfer mode. The other
modes (so called 'packed byte' formats) are queued up to 32 bit data packets by special copy routines in the driver. These
routines are written in Assembler, causing no measureable system load. The supported modes with other Operating Systems than Windows depend on the OS and/or the corresponding drivers.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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6. Hardware Installation
Important: Switch off the computer and remove the power cable from the power supply before fitting the DIGI32/8. Inserting and removing the card while the computer is in operation will more than likely lead to irreparable damage to the mainboard!
1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from the computer
2. Remove the computer's housing; further information on how to do this can be obtained from
your computer´s instruction manual
3. Important: Before removing the DIGI32/8 from its protective bag, discharge any static in
your body by touching the metal chassis of the PC.
4. Insert DIGI32/8 firmly into a free PCI slot, press and fasten the screw.
5. Replace the computer's housing and tighten the screws.
6. Reconnect the power cable and all other cables/connections.
7. Software Installation
7.1 Windows 95/98/SE/ME
After the hardware has been installed correctly (see 6. Hardware Installation), and the computer
has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its ‘Add
New Hardware Wizard’. Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive, and follow further
instructions which appear on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the directory
\DIGI32 on the RME Driver CD.
Windows will install the DIGI driver, and will register the card in the system as a new audio
device. The computer should now be re-booted.
Unfortunately, in seldom cases, the path to the CD-ROM (i.e. its drive-letter) has to be typed
in again during the copy process.
All cards of the DIGI32 series are configured through a Settings dialog, found in Windows Device Manager. See chapter 9 fro details.
7.2 Windows NT
As automatic hardware recognition has not been implemented in Windows NT 4.0 the drivers
have to be installed ‘by hand’.
After the hardware has been installed correctly (see 6. Hardware Installation) and Windows NT
has been booted, insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive. Register the new device
by starting >Control Panel /Multimedia /Devices /Audio Devices /Add<. Change to the CD's
directory to \NT in the CD-ROM. Windows NT will now install the driver. The RME Settings
dialog will open automatically.
A click on ‘OK’ finishes the installation. After a reboot the DIGI symbol will show up in the
systray of the taskbar. The DIGITray tool will be loaded automatically each time when booting
NT.
A left mouse click on the DIGI symbol starts the 'Settings' dialog. The NT driver supports any
combination of up to three RME cards. The driver is installed only once for all cards in the system.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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7.3 Windows 2000/XP
After the hardware has been installed correctly (see 6. Hardware Installation), and the computer
has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its
‘Hardware Wizard’. Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive, and follow further instructions which appear on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the directory
\DIGI96 W2k (no error!) on the RME Driver CD.
Windows will install the DIGI32 driver, and will register the card in the system as a new audio
device. The computer must be rebooted then.
All cards of the DIGI32 series can be easily configured using the RME DIGI Settings dialog.
The panel 'Settings' can be opened
• by clicking on the DIGI icon in the Taskbar's system tray
In case the warning messages 'Digital signature not found', 'Do not install driver', 'not certified
driver' or similar come up: Don't listen to Microsoft, listen to us and continue with the installation.
7.4 Deinstalling the Drivers
A deinstallation of the DIGI32 series driver files is not necessary – and not supported by Windows anyway. Thanks to full Plug & Play support, the driver files will not be loaded after the
hardware has been removed. If desired these files can then be deleted manually.
Unfortunately Windows Plug & Play methods do not cover the additional autorun entries of the
Settings dialog, and the registering of the ASIO driver. Those entries can be removed from the
registry through a software deinstallation request. This request can be found (like all deinstallation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'DIGI96 Link and Tray Autostart', or
'RME DIGI32, DIGI96 and Hammerfall Series'.
7.5 Linux/Unix
Drivers for Linux, Unix and Solaris are available at 4Front Technology. Information:
http://www.opensound.com
Another source of (free) drivers may be the ALSA project:
http://www.alsa-project.org
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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8. Operation and Usage
8.1 External Connectors
The DIGI32/8 has 2 external inputs and outputs. The current input is activated through
'Settings', available by a click on the DIGI symbol in the Taskbar's system tray (under Win9x
through >Device Manager /DIGI328 /Properties /Settings<). The card accepts all commonly
used digital sources, SPDIF and AES/EBU as well as ADAT optical. Channel status and copy
protection are ignored.
All outputs are driven in
parallel, therefore carrying
identical signals. In the
simplest situation, connect
2 devices at the outputs
and use the card as a
splitter (distribution 1 to 2).
To receive signals in AES/EBU format,
an adapter cable is required. Pins 2 and
3 of a female XLR plug are connected
individually to the two pins of a phono
plug. The cable shielding is only connected to pin 1 of the XLR - not to the
phono plug. The ground-free design,
with transformers for digital inputs and
outputs, offers a trouble-free connection
of all devices along with perfect hum rejection.
8.2 Internal Connectors
The DIGI32/8 has one internal digital input and output, provided by 2-pin connectors on the
board. The internal input ST3, labelled CD IN / Sync In, can be connected to an internal CDROM drive having a digital audio output (advantage: the built in CD-ROM drive is sufficient for
digital recording and the need for external cabling does not arise). Or it can be connected with
the internal output of another DIGI32 series card (synchronizing multiple cards).
The internal output ST4, labelled Sync Out, provides a copy of the current external output
signal. An internal loopback proves to be a useful application. Use the supplied two pin cable to
connect Sync In and Sync Out, set the card to Clock Mode 'Master' and selectal 'Internal' as
input. Now the output signal shows up directly at the card's input. This allows you to record the
playback signal, or to display the playback signals with our DIGICheck software.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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8.3 Playback (Windows MME)
DIGI32/8 can play back audio data only in supported formats (sample rate, bit resolution).
Otherwise an error message appears (for example at 22 kHz and 8 bit).
In the audio application being used, DIGI32/8 must be selected as the output device. This can
often be found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus under Playback Device, Audio
Devices, Audio etc. Only a few programs exclusively use Windows' Preferred Playback Device.
This setting can be changed in >Control Panel /Multimedia /Audio<. We recommend using 24bit resolution for playback to use the DIGI32 series fullest potential.
We strongly recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel /Sounds<). Also
DIGI32/8 should not be the Preferred Device for playback, as this could cause loss of syn-
chronization and unwanted noises. If you feel you cannot do without system sounds, you should
consider buying a cheap Blaster clone and select this as Preferred Device in >Control Panel
/Multimedia /Audio<.
The RME Driver CD includes step by step instructions for configuring many popular audio applications. Start setup.htm or setup2.htm (in the \rmeaudio.web\techinfo\ directory).
The picture to the
right shows the
smallest buffer setting
for a crackle-free 24
bit operation in a
computer with 200
MHz.
More or larger buffers
produce an even
higher defence
against distur-bance,
but also cause a longer delay in playing
back the data. In case
of synchronized audio
to MIDI playback be
sure to activate the
checkbox 'Get play
position from audio
driver' when available
in your program.
Because the DIGI32/8 reports the actual play position correct (even in record where this is
neccessary for chase lock sync) there will be no sync problems when working in a mixed audio/MIDI environment even with higher buffer settings.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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8.4 Recording Digital (Windows MME)
Unlike analog soundcards, which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is
present, digital I/O cards always need a valid input signal to start recording (this includes the
correct sample frequency as well).
To take this into account, RME has included three unique features in the DIGI32 series: an
error LED for the active digital input in use, a comprehensive I/O signal status display (showing
sample frequency, lock and format) in the Settings dialog, and the protective Check Input function.
The error LED indicates whether the card gets power and a valid digital input signal. Whenever
an error occurs (wrong input, invalid data, signal transmitting device delivers nothing), the LED
will light red. As soon as a valid input signal is present the LED will turn off. The display of the
sample frequency (see chapter 9, picture Settings) in the Status display offers a similar function. If no sample frequency can be recognized ‘Out Of Range’ will be shown, in case of an error
detection ‘No Lock’.
If a 48 kHz signal is fed to the input and the application is set to 44.1 kHz, Check Input stops
the system from recording. This prevents faulty takes, which often go unnoticed until later on in
the production. Such tracks appear to have the wrong playback rate - the audio quality as such
is not affected. 'Check Input' may be switched off for vari-speed purposes.
Therefore configuring the software to perform a digital recording is child´s play. After selecting
the required input DIGI32/8 displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can
then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.
The screenshot to the right shows a typical
dialog used for changing basic parameters
such as sample frequency and resolution in
an audio application.
Any bit resolution can be selected, providing it is supported by both the audio hardware and the software. Even if the input
signal is 24 bit, the application can still be
set to record at 16-bit resolution. The lower
8 bits (and therefore any signals about
96dB below maximum level) are lost entirely. On the other hand, there is nothing to
gain from recording a 16-bit signal at 24-bit
resolution - this would only waste precious space on the hard disk.
It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. The DIGI32
series includes a useful input monitor function, which can be set in the RME DIGI Settings
(Output/Automatic). Activating Record or Pause in the application causes the input signal to be
passed directly to the digital and analog output. However, some applications block monitoring
by constantly activating playback, even if the played back track is empty. This is often required
by programs to ensure that timing and punch I/O will work correctly.
8.5 Record while Play
DIGI32/8 allows the playback of audio data during the recording of further audio data, even
at different sample frequencies. This feature, known as Enhanced Full Duplex or Record while
play, is a must for multitrack harddisk recording, but it has to be supported by the recording
software.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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9. Configuring the DIGI32/8
9.1 General
The hardware of the DIGI32 series includes a number of helpful, well thought-of, practical functions and options, which allow you to configure the behaviour of the card to suit many different
requirements. Through ‘Settings’ you will gain access to:
• Input selection
• Output operation
• Output Channel Status
• Synchronization behaviour
• Input and output status display
The display of the current input frequency and format is updated every 0.5 seconds. When
choosing an input with a signal including errors or without any input signal the statement ‘No
Lock’ appears, in vari-speed operation or with sample frequencies widely out of tune ‘Out of
Range’ is shown. If the current signal has SPDIF or AES/EBU format then 'Stereo' is displayed.
The changing / switching of the inputs happens right away and needs no further click on OK.
The three states of the output
selected through the
choicebox ‘Output’ control the
monitoring behaviour of the
card. ‘Automatic’ sets the
normal mode where the input
signal reaches the output only
whilst recording. In this mode,
when starting a recording,
feedback occurs very often
when using digital mixing
desks. ‘Play only’ solves this
problem by making sure that
the input signal is never passed to the output.
After selecting ‘Input’, the
input signal appears at the
output whenever playback is
not active. DIGI32/8
saves a continual record
standby mode and can switch
itself to monitoring without
active software. As switching
between the inputs is carried
out in realtime, stepping
through the inputs gives a fast check of the incoming signals.
Settings should not be changed during playback or record if it can be avoided, as this can cause unwanted noises. Also, please note that even in 'Stop' mode, several programs keep the
recording and playback devices open, which means that any new settings might not be applied
immediately.
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Input
Defines the current input.
Stereo Devices (W2k only)
SyncAlign operates fully automated and should be kept active all the time. Only in case the
stereo devices must operate completetely independent, deactivating this setting may be necessary.
Safe Mode
Check Input verifies the current input signal against the settings in the record program. When
de-activated a recording will always be allowed, even with non-valid input signals.
Output
With ‘Automatic’ active, the input signal reaches the output only whilst recording. ‘Play only’
prevents the input signal from being passed to the output. After selecting ‘Input’, the input signal appears at the output whenever playback is not active.
Output Format
Default: Consumer. Switches SPDIF into Professional mode. Specific information can be found
in chapter 11.
Clock Mode
The card can be configured to use the selected input (AutoSync) or its internal clock (Master)
as clock source.
Status Displays
The displays at the bottom of the dialog box give precise information about the current status of
the card, like format of input and output signal, sample rate at input and output, or current clock
mode.
9.2 Force Adat
The function 'Force Adat' forces the digital output into ADAT mode (i.e. 8-channel operation).
When using a 'normal' 2-track program to play a stereo file, you're not only able to send the
data to any SPDIF device, but also to any other ADAT interface! Just activate 'Force Adat' and
choose the stereo pair that corresponds to the channels you want the data being transfered to
(for example DIGI32/8 (3+4)).
When 'Force Adat' is activated, more than one 2-channel (stereo) program can access the
ADAT interface simultaneously (see chapter 12).
9.3 Windows 9x
DIGI32/8 uses the Device Manager for configuration. Unfortunately accessing the
DIGI32/8 inside the Device Manager is not as simple as it could be. To shorten the labori-
ous way to the tab Settings a link is copied to the desktop (C:\Windows\ Desktop), its icon to
C:\Windows\. Using the shortcut Ctrl-Num2 (the number 2 on the number block) or a double
click on the DIGI symbol lets you jump straight to the Device Manager. From there it's only a
few clicks to 'Settings'. If you need continous access to 'Settings', simply don't close it. With
Ctrl-2 'Settings' gets into the foreground at any time.
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9.4 Clock Modes - Synchronization
In the digital world, all devices are either the 'Master' (clock source) or a 'Slave' synchronized to
the master. Whenever several devices are linked within a system, there must always be a single master. The DIGI32 series includes a very user-friendly intelligent clock control, which
handles the clock switching between master and slave on its own. Click on 'AutoSync' to activate this mode.
In AutoSync mode, the card constantly scans for a valid input signal at the active input. As
soon as this matches the current playback sample rate, the card switches from the internal
quartz (display 'Clock Master') to the clock generated from the input signal (display 'Clock Slave'). This allows on-the-fly recording, even during playback, without having to synchronize the
card to the input signal first. It also allows immediate playback at any sample rate without having to reconfigure the card.
'AutoSync’ guarantees a fault-free function of the modes Record, Record while Play and while
using more than one card (see chapter 10). In certain cases however, e.g. when the inputs and
outputs of a DAT machine are connected directly to the DIGI32/8, AutoSync causes feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization breaks down. To remedy this, switch the card's
clock mode over to 'Master'.
Thanks to the described AutoSync technology and a lightning fast PLL the DIGI32 series is not
only capable of handling standard frequencies, but also any sample rate between 25 and 60
kHz. The digital input serves as synchronization source. Please note that at the start of a record
or playback a valid sample frequency (32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz) has to be attached. When
started, the sample frequency can be pitched to whatever is needed, DIGI32/8 will follow
these changes immediately.
Only one device can be master in a digital system! When DIGI32/8 operates in clock mode
'Master', all other devices have to be 'Slave'.
More information on these subjects can be found in the HTML document 'sync.htm', located in
the directory \rmeaudio.web\english\techinfo on the RME Driver CD, or on our web site.
10. Using more than one DIGI32/8
All our drivers can communicate simultaneously with all the cards registered in the system. The
driver marks them with different numbers after the device's name, like ‘DIGI32/8 In (1)’.
Thanks to our AutoSync technology multiple cards can be synchronized easily by applying one
input signal to all inputs simultaneously.
In order to connect more than one DIGI32/8 to a digital mixing desk they must all get
the same clock(ed input signal). This is easy to achieve: just connect at least one input of
each card to one output of the mixing desk.
Example 1: All DIGI's digital inputs are connected to other devices synced to the word clock
net.
Activate the corresponding input of each card in its Settings dialog, and activate the mode AutoSync at all cards.
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Example 2: Only the outputs of the DIGIs are connected to other devices.
Connect the internal Sync-Out of the master card to the Sync-In (CD-ROM) of the second card,
activate its internal input and AutoSync mode. Next connect the third card in the same way,
from the second's card Sync-Out to the third's card Sync-In. Configure this card like the second
one. The necessary 2-wire cables are the ones supplied with the DIGI cards. Of course this
method is also operational with the external connectors, like optical or coaxial, as long as the
corresponding input is activated.
Please note when using more than one card plus the word clock output that only one card
can be master!
More information on this subject can be found in the HTML document 'sync.htm', located in the
directory \rmeaudio.web\english\techinfo on the RME Driver CD, or on our web site.
11. Special Features of the Digital Output
Apart from the audio data itself, digital audio signals in SPDIF or AES/EBU format include a
header containing Channel Status information. False Channel Status is a common cause of
malfunction. The DIGI32 series ignores the received header and creates a totally new one for
the output signal.
Note that in record or monitor modes, set emphasis bits will disappear. Recordings originally done with emphasis should always be played back with the emphasis bit set!
Emphasis is used very seldom. In case you have to work often with such material we recommend our DIGI32 PRO. It allows to set emphasis active on the outgoing data while listening to the result of this operation.
The outgoing status data of the DIGI32/8 has, with regard to other digital appliances, been
optimized to the largest compatibility possible:
• 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz according to the sample frequency
• Audio use
• No copyright, copy permitted
• Format Consumer or Professional
• Category General, generation not indicated
• 2-Channel, No emphasis
• Aux bits audio use
Thanks to the balancedl design with transformers for coaxial output a connection to professional AES/EBU equipment is possible. The necessary cable adapter is exactly the same as the
one for the input (see 8.1 Connections), except that a male XLR connector has to be used.
Please note that DIGI32/8 has no option to change the channel status of the outgoing signal from 'Consumer' to 'Professional'.
Only a few professional products don't accept consumer format at their professional inputs.
In this case a special format converter that change the channel status data is neccessary.
G
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
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12. Notes on the ADAT Interface
DIGI32/8 comes with two different driver methods in one driver. Using channel interleave
there is only one device, the software in use divides the channels into 8 mono tracks. Because
this easy to handle 'Windows native' method is not widely used the DIGI32/8 also supports
Multi-Device operation. The driver routes the 8 tracks in 4 stereo devices. These 4 stereo devices can be used by nearly any software to record or playback more than 2 channels simultaneously, making DIGI32/8 compatible to a wide range of already existing software.
DIGI32/8 includes an intelligent hardware controller for ease of use. Whenever more than 2
channels are used, no matter with record, playback or both, the card switches into ADAT mode.
The Input switch is overwritten when more than 2 channels are used. If the Input switch is set to
coaxial, and the display shows 44.1 kHz, using more than 2 channels immediately activates the
optical input in ADAT mode.
When the Input switch is set to optical and an ADAT signal is supplied to the optical input the
settings dialog of the DIGI32/8 indicates ‘ADAT PLL Locked’. If now the Output function is
set to ‘Input’ the card changes to ADAT mode to allow input monitoring of up to 8 channels.
If the software being used requires a continuous ADAT mode activate the switch ‘Force Adat' in
the Settings dialog. When using a 'normal' 2 track program to play or record a stereo file, you're
not only able to use SPDIF but also any ADAT interface! Just activate 'Force ADAT' and choose the stereo pair in the device list box that corresponds to the channels you want the data
being transfered to.
DIGI32/8 works in SPDIF- or ADAT mode, but not in both simultaneous. Thus using
more than 2 channels no SPDIF signal will be available at the outputs.
The stereo pairs work independent. This means you may use the 4 stereo pairs with different
programs. A typical example would be to play back six channels from a harddisk recording
program, and simultaneously use a real time synthesizer software like Generator from Native
Instruments on the two remaining channels.
13. Multiclient Operation
13.1 General
The DIGI32/8 series supports multiclient operation. That means more than one program can be
used at the same time. But this mode is only available as long as certain rules are followed. For
a flawless multiclient operation with multiple programs the below guidelines have to be followed
precisely.
Rule 1: Multiclient operation always requires the activation of Force Adat!
After an activation of Force Adat all 4 output pairs can be used freely. You can use up to 4
different MME programs at the same time.
Rule 2: Multiclient operation always requires identical sample rates and bit resolutions!
It is not possible to run one program at 44.1 kHz and another one at 48 kHz. Also it's not possible to run one program in 16 bit and another one in 24 (32) bit resolution.
G
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Rule 3: It is not possible to use the same channels with different programs simultaneously.
If for example Generator uses channels 1/2, this output pair can't be used in WaveLab anymore.
14. Hotline - Troubleshooting
14.1 General
The newest information can always be found on our website www.rme-audio.com, section FAQ,
Latest Additions.
Playback works but recording doesn´t:
• Check that a valid input signal is at hand. In this case the Error LED on the hardware turns
off, and the current sample frequency is shown under 'Settings'.
• If you are sure that a valid signal is being sent but the LED is still red, then check the cur-
rently selected input in the Settings dialogue.
• Check whether the DIGI32/8 has been selected as recording device in the audio appli-
cation.
• Check whether the sample frequency set in the audio application (‘Recording properties’ or
similar) matches the input signal.
• Check that there is no loop cabling present. If so set 'Clock Mode' to 'Master'.
The input signal cannot be monitored in real-time
• Monitoring has not been enabled (for example 'Global disable' in Cubase).
The recording or the playback is disturbed by crackling:
• Increase the quantity and size of the buffers in the software being used.
• Use a different cable (coaxial or optical) to cross-check them for defects.
• Check that there is no loop cabling present. If so set 'Clock Mode' to 'Master'.
• Increase the buffer size of the hard disk cache (example: from 64 kB to 256 kB).
• In case of loop cabling with an ADAT we recommend to use the ADAT as master (Int) and
the DIGI as slave (AutoSync).
• Activate Busmaster mode for the hard disks. Windows: Device Manager, double-click on
‘Disk drives’, then on the required hard disk(s). Select ‘DMA’ in the Properties dialog.
Only the playback signal, but not the record (input) signal is present at the output
• The DIGI32 series has no hardware mixer. Therefore while playback is running only the
playback signal is present at the output. The mixing of record and playback signal has to be
done in the software (for example deactivate Cubase's 'ASIO Direct Monitoring').
The SPDIF output does not work
• The output operates in ADAT Mode, see Output Status Display. This may be caused by
Force Adat being activated, an activation of more than the first (1/2) Master output busses in
Cubase, or when 'Max I/O' (under Hardware & Driver) wasn't set to 2 in Logic.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
16
14.2 Installation
More information on installation problems (which fortunately are very seldom, thanks to Plug
and Play), can be found in the Tech Info 'Installation problems', located in the directory
\rmeaudio.web\techinfo on the RME Driver CD.
The card is normally found in the Device Manager (>Settings/Control Panel/System<), in the
category 'Sound-, Video- and Gamecontroller'. A double click on 'DIGI32/8' starts the properties
dialog. Choosing 'Resources' shows Interrupt and Memory Range.
The newest information on hardware problems can always be found on our website www.rme-
audio.com, section FAQ, Hardware Alert: about incompatible hardware.
The dialog 'New hardware component found’ does not appear:
• Is the Error LED of the DIGI32/8 lit when no cable is connected to the optical input? If
not, the card is either defect or not sitting properly in the slot.
When the card and the driver have been properly installed but no playback is possible:
• Check that the DIGI32/8 appears correctly in the Device Manager. If the device 'DIGI96'
is marked with a yellow exclamation mark then either an address conflict or an IRQ conflict
is present.
• If no yellow exclamation mark is present check the 'Resources' tab.
• Check that the DIGI32/8 has been set as ‘transmitting device’ in the software. Also
check the settings under >Settings /Control Panel /Multimedia /Advanced<. Here the
DIGI32 must appear as an audio device when it´s been correctly installed, and can be set
as the Preferred Device under 'Audio'.
The computer crashes whenever the DIGI32/8 is accessed:
• If your graphics board is an older Matrox Mystique or uses a ‘968’ S3 chip, there could be a
memory allocation error. Change the memory area allocated to the DIGI32/8 to below
the area used by the graphics board (e.g. D0000000 - D0FFFFFF). Detailed information on
this subject can be found in \rmeaudio.web\techinfo\install.htm on the RME Driver CD.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
17
15. DIGICheck: Analysis, Test and Measurements
The DIGI96 series from RME is accompanied by a world wide unique software tool: DIGICheck,
the incredible utility for test, measure and analysis of the digital audio data stream.
Although the DIGICheck software is fairly self-explanatory, it still includes a comprehensive
online help. A detailed description of all functions and the technical background is also available in HTML format (digich.htm, in the \techinfo directory on the RME Drivers CD or from our
website). As DIGICheck has been developed for the DIGI96 series, only the following functions
are available when using the DIGI32 series:
• Level Meter. High precision 24-bit resolution, 2/8 channels. Application examples: Peak
level measurement, RMS level measurement, Over detection, phase correlation measurement, dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratios, RMS to peak difference (loudness), long
term peak measurement, input check
• Bit Statistics. Shows the true resolution of audio signals as well as errors and DC offset
• Totalyser. Professional 30-band Analyser and Goniometer (Vector Scope)
To install DIGICheck, go to the \DIGICheck directory on the RME Drivers CD and run setup.exe. Follow the instructions prompted on the screen.
16. TECH INFO
RME provides more information on the TECH INFO pages in the web (http://www.rmeaudio.com/techinfo/index.htm), and in the directory \rmeaudio.web\techinfo on the RME
Driver CD. Here are some examples of available Tech Infos:
Synchronization (DIGI32 series)
Digital audio synchronization: technical background, problems
Installation Problems
..and their solutions
List of Driver Updates
Lists all driver updates and the changes in them
Configuration of Samplitude, Cubase, Logic, Cakewalk 7.0, Sonar and SAWPlus32 using the
DIGI32 series. Step by step instructions
DIGICheck: Analysis, tests and measurements with the DIGI96 series
A description of DIGICheck, including technical basics.
TMS (Track Marker Support)
Description of the TMS technology to transfer CD- and DAT information.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
18
17. Warranty
Each individual DIGI32/8 undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test in
a PC environment at RME before shipping. This may cause very slight signs of wear on the
contacts (if the card looks like it was used one time before - it was). The usage of high grade
components allows us to offer a full two year warranty. We accept a copy of the sales receipt
as valid warranty legitimation.
RME’s replacement service within this period is handled by the retailer. If you suspect that your
card is faulty, please contact your local retailer. The 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.
RME does not accept claims for damages of any kind, especially consequential damage. Liability is limited to the value of the DIGI32/8. The general terms of business drawn up by
Synthax OHG apply at all times.
18. Appendix
RME news, driver updates and further product information are available on our website:
http://www.rme-audio.com
If you prefer to read the information off-line, you can load a complete copy of the RME website
from the RME Driver CD (in the \rmeaudio.web directory) into your browser.
Distributor in Germany:
Synthax Audio AG, Am Pfanderling 62, D-85778 Haimhausen, Tel.: (49) 08133 / 91810
Manufacturer:
IMM Elektronik, Leipziger Str. 32, D-09648 Mittweida
Trademarks
All trademarks and registered trademarks belong to their respective owners. RME, DIGI96,
SyncAlign and DIGICheck are registered trademarks of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. Alesis
and ADAT are registered trademarks of Alesis Corp. ADAT optical is a trademark of Alesis
Corp. Microsoft, Windows, Windows 98/NT/2000/XP are trademarks of Microsoft Corp. Cubase
and VST are registered trademarks of Steinberg Soft- und Hardware GmbH. ASIO is a trademark of Steinberg Soft- und Hardware GmbH. emagic and Logic Audio are registered trademarks of emagic Soft- und Hardware GmbH. Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corp.
Copyright Matthias Carstens, 5/2002. Version 1.4
Current driver version: W98: 4.96, NT 3.86, W2k/XP: 2.0
Although the contents of this User’s Guide have been thoroughly checked for errors, RME can not guarantee that it is correct
throughout. RME does not accept responsibility for any misleading or incorrect information within this guide. Lending or
copying any part of the guide or the RME drivers CD, or any commercial exploitation of these media without express written
permission from RME Intelligent Audio Solutions is prohibited. RME reserves the right to change specifications at any time
without notice.
User's Guide DIGI32/8 © RME
19
Thanx
All people involved in the project DIGI32/8 would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to the follo-
wing persons:
Hermann Knödler for believing in us
Hanspeter Widmer for debugging the 24 bit mode
Margit Tischler from Xilinx Germany for her support
Dirk Reile, who hasn’t seen his ADAT for a long time
Detlev Müller and his team: good work!
CE
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 (89/336/EEC) according to EN 55022 class B.
FCC Compliance Statement
Certified to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device according to subpart J or part
15 of FCC rules. See instructions if interference to radio reception is suspected.
FCC Warning
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 device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
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 seperation 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.
In order for an installation of this product to maintain compliance with the limits for a Class B
device, shielded cables must be used for the connection of any devices external to this product.
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