Ross GearLite ADA-9503 User Manual

ADA-9503

AES/EBU Equalizing Amplifier

User Manual

ADA-9503 User Manual

• Ross Part Number: 9503DR-004-02

• Release Date: October 11, 2012.

The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice or
obligation.

Copyright

© 2012 Ross Video Limited. All rights reserved.

This work is proprietary and confidential to Ross Video Limited, its subsidiaries
and its other affiliated corporations and may not be copied, distributed, sold or
otherwise used or relied upon without the express written permission of Ross
Video Limited. Reproduction or reverse engineering of copyrighted software is
prohibited.

Patents

This product is protected by the following US Patents: 4,205,346; 5,115,314;
5,280,346; 5,561,404; 7,034,886; 7,508,455; 7,602,446; 7,834,886; 7,914,332.
This product is protected by the following Canadian Patents: 2039277;
1237518; 1127289. Other patents pending.

Notice

The material in this manual is furnished for informational use only. It is subject
to change without notice and should not be construed as commitment by Ross
Video Limited. Ross Video Limited assumes no responsibility or liability for
errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this manual.

Trademarks

• is a registered trademark of Ross Video Limited.

• is a trademark of Ross Video Limited.

• Ross, ROSS, ROSS ®, and MLE are registered trademarks of Ross

• VELCRO® is a registered trademark of Velcro Industries B.V.

• All other product names and any registered and unregistered

1

Video Limited.

trademarks mentioned in this manual are used for identification
purposes only and remain the exclusive property of their respective
owners.

Important Regulatory and Safety Notices to Service Personnel

Before using this product and any associated equipment, refer to the
“Important Safety Instructions” listed below to avoid personnel injury and to
prevent product damage.

Product may require specific equipment, and/or installation procedures to be
carried out to satisfy certain regulatory compliance requirements. Notices have
been included in this publication to call attention to these specific requirements.

Symbol Meanings

Protective Earth — This symbol identifies a Protective Earth (PE)

terminal, which is provided for connection of the supply system’s
protective earth (green or green/yellow) conductor.

This symbol on the equipment refers you to important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions within the Product Manual
Documentation. Failure to heed this information may present a major
risk of damage or injury to persons or equipment.

Warning — The symbol with the word “Warning” within the

equipment manual indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Caution — The symbol with the word “Caution” within the

equipment manual indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be
used to alert against unsafe practices.

Warning Hazardous Voltages — This symbol is intended to alert

the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of shock to persons.

ESD Susceptibility — This symbol is used to alert the user that an

electrical or electronic device or assembly is susceptible to damage
from an ESD event.

2

Important Safety Instructions

1. Warning – Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. The safe operation of this product requires that a protective earth

connection be provided. A grounding conductor in the equipment's
supply cord provides this protective earth. To reduce the risk of
electrical shock to the operator and service personnel, this ground
conductor must be connected to an earthed ground.

6. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug. A

grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The
third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not
fit in to your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinching particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and point
where they exit from the apparatus.

7. Warning – Indoor Use: WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or

electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

8. Do not block ventilation openings. Install in accordance with

manufacturer's instructions.

9. Do not install near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,

stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

10. Do not use this apparatus near water.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for

long periods of time.

13. Clean only with a dry cloth.

14. To avoid electrical shock, disconnect the A/C power cord before any

servicing.

15. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when

the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug damage, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

3

EMC Notices

United States of America
FCC Part 15

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 his own expense.

Notice — Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly

approved by Ross Video Limited could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.

CANADA

This Class “A” digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appariel numerique de la classe “A” est conforme a la norme NMB-003 du
Canada.

EUROPE

This equipment is in compliance with the essential requirements and other
relevant provisions of CE Directive 93/68/EEC.

INTERNATIONAL

This equipment has been tested to CISPR 22:1997 along with amendments
A1:2000 and A2:2002, and found to comply with the limits for a Class A

Digital device.

Notice — This is a Class A product. In domestic environments, this

product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may
have to take adequate measures.

Maintenance/User Serviceable Parts

Routine maintenance to this GearLite product is not required. This product
contains no user serviceable parts. If the module does not appear to be working
properly, please contact Technical Support using the numbers listed under the

4

“Contact Us” section on the last page of this manual. All GearLite products are
covered by a generous 3-year warranty and will be repaired without charge for
materials or labor within this period. See the “Warranty and Repair Policy”
section in this manual for details.

Environmental Information

The equipment that you purchased required the extraction and use
of natural resources for its production. It may contain hazardous
substances that could impact health and the environment.

To avoid the potential release of those substances into the environment and to
diminish the need for the extraction of natural resources, Ross Video encourages
you to use the appropriate take-back systems. These systems will reuse or
recycle most of the materials from your end-of-life equipment in an
environmentally friendly and health conscious manner.

The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol invites you to use these systems.

If you need more information on the collection, reuse, and recycling systems,
please contact your local or regional waste administration.

You can also contact Ross Video for more information on the environmental
performances of our products.

5

Introduction

AES IN

AES OUT 1

AES OUT 2

AES OUT 3

AES OUT 4

AES OUT 5

AES OUT 6

AMPLIFIER

&

EQUALIZER

SIGNAL

RESHAPING

AES OUTPUT

DRIVER

Overview

The RossGear ADA-9503 AES/EBU Equalizing Amplifier is a high quality
distribution amplifier for digital audio signals and part of a growing family of
GearLite self-contained, small brick-format modules.

The ADA-9503 is a one-input, six-output program stream digital audio fan-out
distribution amplifier and is specifically designed for use in 75ohm coaxial
(SMPTE 276M or AES-3id) systems.

The ADA-9503 distributes incoming data at 22 to 100kHz sampling rates and
provides automatic cable equalization for lengths beyond 610m (2000ft).

The ADA-9503 provides an ideal and cost effective solution for the distribution
of AES/EBU signals where re-clocking is not required.

The ADA-9503 includes a universal power adaptor and line cord suitable for the
country of use. Various mounting options are included that enable a wide range
of installation choices for this compact, stand-alone package.

Simplified Block Diagram

Figure 1 Simplified Block Diagram of ADA-9503 Functions

Features

The ADA-9503 includes the following features:

• One AES/EBU 75ohm coaxial input

• Six AES/EBU 75ohm coaxial outputs

• Automatic cable equalization

• Signal re-shaping to ensure signal integrity

• Supports data rates from 32kHz to 96kHz

• Separate input and power status indicator LEDs

• Small brick form factor

• 5V universal adapter with locking DC connector

• 3-year warranty

Introduction (Iss. 02) • 6

Installation

Static Discharge

Whenever handling the ADA-9503 and other related equipment, please observe
all static discharge precautions as described in the following note:

ESD Susceptibility — Static discharge can cause serious damage

to sensitive semiconductor devices. Avoid handling circuit boards in
high static environments, such as carpeted areas, and when wearing
synthetic fiber clothing. Always exercise proper grounding precautions
when working on circuit boards and related equipment.

Unpacking

Unpack each ADA-9503 you received from the shipping container and check
the contents to ensure that all items are included. If any items are missing or
damaged, contact your sales representative or Ross Video directly.

Mounting and Installation

The ADA-9503 AES/EBU Equalizing Amplifier can be mounted in any
convenient location. However, to ensure long life for this product, observe the
following precautions and operating requirements:

• Maintain an ambient temperature of 20°C to 40°C.

• Allow for air circulation around the chassis for convectional cooling.

Many different mounting positions are possible with the included mounting
hardware. Some installation options are permanent and require careful
consideration of the final positioning before installation. Please note that in
some mounting locations, the power adaptor must be affixed in a similar manner
as the chassis.

Other possible options include the use of adhesive magnetic sheets (not
included) affixed to the chassis and the power adaptor, for removable mounting
on metal cabinets etc.

Cable ties may be necessary in some applications to relieve strain on the
mounting hardware and the connectors.

Surface Mount Strips

The included VELCRO® brand surface mount strips allow the GearLite module
and power supply to be affixed to a permanent location during use and easily

7 • Installation (Iss. 02)

removed for adjustments. Carefully consider the installation location before
proceeding; the adhesive is very aggressive and is not easily removed. The
adhesive will cure fully in 24 hours.

To install the Surface Mount Strips

1. Remove the Protective Backing Film from the adhesive on the

bottom of the two VELCRO® brand Surface Mount Strips.

2. Adhere the Surface Mount Strips to the bottom side of the chassis.

(Figure 2)

Figure 2 Surface Mount Installation Option

3. Remove the Protective Backing Film from the other side of the

VELCRO® brand Surface Mount Strips.

4. Press the chassis into position on the surface you want to mount it to.

Operating Tip — An additional VELCRO® brand Surface Mount

Strip is available to mount the power adapter.

Non-Slip Pads

Four non-slip adhesive pads have been supplied for desktop placements. Simply
remove the protective backing film from the adhesive and affix one non-slip pad
to each of the four corners on the bottom of the chassis.

Optional Mounting Accessories

Ross Video is committed to providing practical solutions for the needs of your
high-quality broadcast facility.

Installation (Iss. 02) • 8

Flat Metal Plate

Use the flat metal plate for permanent mounting to a rack, a desk, or any other
location where bolts or screws can be applied. Be sure to position the module to
allow for operator adjustments, if required.

To install the Flat Metal Plate

1. Remove the 2 screws from the bottom of the chassis.

2. Install the Flat Metal Plate onto the bottom of the chassis (Figure 3)

using the screws provided in the Mounting Kit. Do not use the screws
removed during Step 1.

Figure 3 Flat Metal Plate Installation Option

3. Install the chassis in the desired location using the Mounting Holes

on the Flat Metal Plate. Mounting screws are not provided by Ross
Video.

Angle Mounting Bracket

The Angle Mounting Bracket (Figure 4) allows a single GearLite module to be
installed in positions not possible with the flat metal plate. The bracket has a 90°
angle. Mounting screws are not provided by Ross Video.

9 • Installation (Iss. 02)

Figure 4 Angle Mounting Bracket

Installation (Iss. 02) • 10

Setup and Operation

POWER
SUPPLY

AES IN

AES OUT 2 AES OUT 4 AES OUT 6

AES OUT 1 AES OUT 3 AES OUT 5

Power Adapter and Supply

Connect the PS-9000 power adaptor to the power supply connector. The
PS-9000 provides up to 2A of regulated +5V DC (5%). The DC power cord has
a locking connector that securely fastens into the power supply DC jack on the
ADA-9503. The ADA-9503 has a standard miniature power jack (center pin
positive).

If using an adaptor other than the PS-9000, ensure that:

• the polarity is correct

• the voltage is +5V DC regulated to 5%

• sufficient current for the ADA-9503 is supplied

Caution — Use of improper adaptors may damage the ADA-9503

and will void the warranty.

Installations outside of North America using line voltages of 200-240V require a
plug, certified for the country of use, to be installed on the supplied line cord.
Refer to the section “Important Regulatory and Safety Notices to Service
Personnel” at the front of this manual for details.

Cable Connections Overview

Connect the cables to the ADA-9503 according to the designations indicated on
the chassis label and Figure 5. The input is internally terminated at 75ohm. It is
not necessary to terminate unused outputs.

Figure 5 ADA-9503 Connections

11 • Setup and Operation (Iss. 02)

Status LEDs

The front edge of the ADA-9503 has two LED indicators showing the status of
the amplifier. (Figure 6)

INPUT LED

POWER LED

Figure 6 ADA-9503 Front Edge Status Indicator LEDs

Tabl e 1 describes the two status LEDs available on the ADA-9503. Note that
the module is operating correctly when both LEDs are lit.

Table 1 Status LED Descriptions

LED Color Function

POWER

Green When this LED is lit, the ADA-9503 is powered on.

INPUT

Green

When this LED is lit, there is an AES/EBU signal at the
input.

Setup and Operation (Iss. 02) • 12

Specifications

Specifications are subject to change without notification.

Table 2 ADA-9503 — Technical Specifications

Category Parameter Specification

Number of Inputs 1 AES-3id (SMPTE 276M)

Connector BNC

AES/EBU

Inputs

AES/EBU

Outputs

Performance

Power

Sampling Rates

Input Impedance 75ohm terminating

Input Return Loss >40dB (0.1 to 6MHz)

Input Level 1V p-p nominal

Number of Outputs 6 AES-3id (SMPTE 276M)

Connectors BNC

Output Impedance 75ohm

Output Return Loss >32dB (0.1 to 6MHz)

Output Level 1V p-p ±10%

Output Jitter

Electrical Path Length 24ns typical

Status Reporting Input Present LED, Power LED

Required Voltage +5V DC (5% regulation)

Current Consumption <120mA typical

Total Power <0.6W typical

Thermal Environment

All rates in the 32kHz to 96kHz
range are accepted

<3ns, with 610m (2000ft) of
Belden 8281 cable

20°C to 40°C (68°F to 104°F),
non-condensing

Other

13 • Specifications (Iss. 02)

Dimensions (approx.)

Weight (approx.) 312g (11oz)

13cm x 9cm x 2.5cm
(5” x 3.5” x 1”)

Service Information

Warranty and Repair Policy

The GearLite ADA-9503 is warranted to be free of any defect with respect to
performance, quality, reliability, and workmanship for a period of THREE (3)
years from the date of delivery to the customer. In the event that your GearLite
ADA-9503 proves to be defective in any way during this warranty period, Ross
Video Limited reserves the right to repair or replace this piece of equipment
with a unit of equal or superior performance characteristics.

Should you find that this GearLite ADA-9503 has failed after your warranty
period has expired, we will repair your defective product should suitable
replacement components be available. You, the owner, will bear any labor and/
or part costs incurred in the repair or refurbishment of said equipment beyond
the THREE (3) year warranty period.

In no event shall Ross Video Limited be liable for direct, indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages (including loss of profits) incurred by the
use of this product. Implied warranties are expressly limited to the duration of
this warranty.

This GearLite ADA-9503 AES/EBU Equalizing Amplifier User Manual of our
Digital Products line provides all pertinent information for the safe installation
and operation of your GearLite Product. Ross Video policy dictates that all
repairs to the GearLite ADA-9503 are to be conducted only by an authorized
Ross Video Limited factory representative. Therefore, any unauthorized attempt
to repair this product, by anyone other than an authorized Ross Video Limited
factory representative, will automatically void the warranty. Please contact Ross
Video Technical Support for more information.

In Case of Problems

Should any problem arise with your GearLite ADA-9503, please contact the
Ross Video Technical Support Department. (Contact information is supplied at
the end of this publication.)

A Return Material Authorization number (RMA) will be issued to you, as well
as specific shipping instructions, should you wish our factory to repair your
GearLite ADA-9503. If required, a temporary replacement module will be made
available at a nominal charge. Any shipping costs incurred will be the
responsibility of you, the customer. All products shipped to you from Ross
Video Limited will be shipped collect.

The Ross Video Technical Support Department will continue to provide advice
on any product manufactured by Ross Video Limited, beyond the warranty
period without charge, for the life of the equipment.

Service Information (Iss. 02) • 14

Contact Us

Contact our friendly and professional support representatives for
the following:

• Name and address of your local dealer

• Product information and pricing

• Technical support

• Upcoming trade show information

Telephone: +1 613 • 652 • 4886

T e c h n i c a l

Support

General

Information

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• Company information and news

• Related products and full product lines

• Online catalog

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After Hours Emergency: +1 613 • 349 • 0006

Email: [e-mail]

Telephone: +1 613 • 652 • 4886

Fax: +1 613 • 652 • 4425

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Website: http://www.rossvideo.com