Samson UHF Micro 32 Owner's Manual

®

OWNERS MANUAL

DIVERSITY WIRELESS SYSTEM

Produced by On The Right Wavelength for Samson Technologies Corp.
Copyright 1999, Samson Technologies Corp.
Printed October 1999

Samson Technologies Corp.
575 Underhill Blvd.
P.O. Box 9031
Syosset, NY 11791-9031
Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766)
Fax: [phone]

Table of Contents

Introduction 3
System Features 4
QuickStart 6
Guided Tour - M32 Receiver 7
Guided Tour - T32 Beltpack Transmitter 10
Guided Tour - H32 Handheld Microphone

Transmitter 12
Setting Up and Using the Micro 32 System 14
Appendix A: T32 Multipin Wiring Guide

and Chart 18
Appendix B: Channel Plan 19
Specifications 20

Introduction

Congratulations on purchasing the Samson Micro 32 Wireless System! Although this
product is designed for easy operation, we suggest you first take some time to go through
these pages so you can fully understand how we’ve implemented a number of unique
features.

Every wireless system consists of at least two components—a transmitter and a receiver,
both of which must be tuned to the same channel (that is, the same radio frequency) in
order to operate correctly.* The Samson Micro 32 system is

frequency-agile; that is, it is
capable of operating over any of a number of selectable frequencies, making it eminently
suitable for touring setups or where multiple wireless systems need to be used
simultaneously. Specifically, it offers 32 different operating frequencies within each of
three bands (low, medium, or high), allowing up to six different Micro 32 systems to be
used simultaneously in one band. The system you have purchased contains an M32
micro diversity receiver and either our T32 belt-pack transmitter (for instrument or lavalier
microphone or headset applications) or H32 hand-held microphone transmitter (available in
a wide variety of popular capsules).

The Micro 32 system is specially designed to enable the production of professional audio
tracks to accompany your video shoot or live broadcast. The use of a handheld mic
transmitter or lavalier microphone connected to a beltpack transmitter effectively isolates
the performer from unwanted ambient sounds such as video camera motor noise or room
sounds made by the camera operator or video crew. Because the M32 receiver is
extremely small and lightweight, it can be attached easily to any video camera using the
supplied strip of velcro, and can even be powered directly by the camera’s own 12-volt
power supply, if available.

In this manual, you’ll find a QuickStart section (for those of you familiar with wireless audio
systems) as well as more detailed description of the features of the Micro 32 system, a
guided tour through all components, step-by-step instructions for setting up your system,
wiring diagrams and tables, a channel plan and full specifications. If your Micro 32 system
was purchased in the United States, you’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—don’t forget
to fill it out and mail it! This will enable you to receive online technical support and will
allow us to send you updated information about this and other Samson products in the
future. If your Micro 32 system was purchased outside of the U. S., contact your local
distributor for warranty details. Also, be sure to check out our website
(http://www.samsontech.com) for complete information about our full product line.

SPECIAL NOTE for U.S. purchasers: Should your Micro 32 system ever require servicing,
a

Return Authorization number (RA) is necessary. Without this number, the unit will not be
accepted. If your Micro 32 system was purchased in the United States, please call
Samson at 1-800-372-6766 for a Return Authorization number prior to shipping your unit.
If possible, return the unit in its original carton and packing materials. If your Micro 32
system was purchased outside of the U. S., contact your local distributor for servicing
information.

* Your receiver and transmitter have been factory preset to utilize the same channel.
A listing of the available channels and their corresponding UHF frequencies is presented
in Appendix B on page 17 in this manual.

3

System Features

Designed for use in both live sound and sound contracting applications, the Samson UHF
Micro 32 Wireless System provides a high performance, cost effective solution, utilizing
state-of-the-art technology in wireless communications. Its main features include:

•Three bands of operation (low, medium and high), with 32 different available channels
per band, all operating in the less crowded UHF bandwidth. Up to six Micro 32 systems
(each tuned to a different frequency within the same band) can be used in the same
location without interference. (U.S. users, who can access both the low and medium
bands, have access to 64 channels and can use up to twelve Micro 32 systems in a
single location.)

•Optimized for use in videography applications, the Micro 32 system is highly
customizable, combining a UHF “walkaround” receiver with your choice of beltpack or
handheld microphone transmitters.

•Using the supplied velcro strip, the compact, lightweight M32 receiver can be easily
attached to any video camera and can even derive 12-volt power from the camera (if
available), making it easy to integrate into any traveling or fixed installation video system.

•The M32 micro diversity receiver includes a pair of tuned antennas and provides both
balanced and unbalanced outputs (with a three-position output level switch) and a
headphone monitor output with continuously adjustable level control. The receiver also
includes an audio peak LED, dual receiver indicators, and an RF strength meter.

•Technological breakthrough usage of SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) filters (similar to
those used in high-end television receivers) for extremely precise and stable tuning.

•True Diversity technology maximizes active range (up to 300 feet) and reduces potential
interference problems through automatic switching between two independent receivers.

•Built-in companding noise reduction in all components for crystal-clear sound with
minimized background noise and hiss.

•Transmitters utilize PLL synthesized VCO technology to minimize spurious emissions
and provide “popless” muting, which turns off the audio signal while leaving the carrier
signal on. They use standard 9-volt batteries, with battery life of approximately 8 hours.
Transmitters also provide a convenient three-segment multicolor Battery Strength LED
meter, allowing you to monitor the remaining power in the installed battery.

•The H32 hand-held microphone transmitter is available in a selection of popular mic
capsules, including:

Samson QMIC dynamic

Audix OM-5 dynamic
Electro Voice ND 757A N/DYM dynamic
Electro Voice ND 857A N/DYM dynamic
Shure SM85 condenser
Shure

SM87 condenser

4

5

System Features

•Compact “beeper-sized” T32 belt-pack transmitter is extremely lightweight (less than 4
ounces with a 9-volt battery installed). It provides a mini-XLR jack for connection to
guitar cables or a variety of popular headsets and lavalier microphones, including:

Samson QE headset*
Samson QV headset

AKG C-410 headset
Audio-Technica ATM-75 headset
Audio-Technica MT-350 lavalier
Audio-Technica Pro-35X wind microphone
Audio-Technica

AT-831 lavalier
Countryman IsoMax headset
Crown CM-311(E) headset
Samson ECM-40 lavalier
Sennheiser

MKE-2 lavalier
Sony ECM-44 lavalier
Sony ECM-55 lavalier
Sony ECM-77 lavalier

•All components have rugged construction that ensures reliable operation in even the most
demanding performance environments.

* Optimized for aerobics workouts, this headset is recommended for usage in

high-humidity environments such as physical fitness centers.

QuickStart

If you’ve had some prior experience using wireless systems, these QuickStart instructions
will get you up and running with your Micro 32 system in a matter of minutes! Detailed
instructions for setting up and using your Micro 32 system can be found on page 12 of this
manual, and the “Guided Tour” sections on pages 5 - 11 provide full descriptions of all
Micro 32 component controls and displays.

1. Make sure that the supplied M32 receiver and T32 or H32 transmitter are factory
preset to the same band (High, Medium or Low).

2. Physically place the M32 where it will be used (if desired, it can be connected to your
video camera using the supplied velcro strip) and extend both of its antennas vertically.

3. If you are using the T32 with a lavalier or headset microphone, make the physical
connection between its mini-XLR input connector and the microphone you are using.

4. Place a fresh battery in the transmitter and M32 receiver (or connect the M32 DC input
to your video camera’s 12 volt output or optional AC300R adapter) and turn it on
momentarily to check it; the multifunction LED will light green if the battery is sufficiently
strong.

5. Turn your audio system off and make the physical cable connection between the M32
balanced or unbalanced output jack (if necessary, both can be used simultaneously) and
the line or mic level audio input of your video camera, amplifier or mixer. If you are using
the balanced output jack, be sure to set the M32 Audio Output Level switch correctly.

6. Determine the best Group and Channel to use by setting the M32 meter to “RF” and
observing it while using the supplied plastic screwdriver to select different Groups and
available Channels within that Group (refer to Appendix B on page 17 in this manual for a
complete channel plan). Select a Group that has the greatest number of suitable
Channels and the Channel within that Group that has the greatest signal strength.
Remember that, when two or more transmitters and receivers are being used at the same
location, all devices must be set to the same Group (each to a different Channel).

7. Turn on the transmitter and use the supplied plastic screwdriver to set it to the same
Group and Channel you have selected for the receiver. Its multifunction LED will blink
when selecting an unavailable Channel within a Group.

8. Set the audio gain structure by speaking or singing into your mic (or playing your
instrument) at a normal performance level while slowly raising the audio input control of
your video camera or audio output level of your amplifier or mixer until the desired level is
reached. If necessary, use the supplied plastic screwdriver to adjust the transmitter’s AF
Level trimpot in order to increase or decrease its signal level.

9. Do a walkaround through the intended area of coverage while observing the M32’s RF
meter. Reposition it (or its antennas) or select a different Group/Channel as necessary.

10. If you hear any spurious noise from the M32 output when the transmitter is turned off,
use the supplied plastic screwdriver to adjust the M32 Squelch level control, slowly turning
it clockwise until the point at which the noise disappears.

6

7

Guided Tour - M32

1: A/B Receiver LEDs - When signal is
being received, one of these will be lit
orange, showing you whether the (left) “A”
or (right) “B” receiver is currently being
used. The M32 constantly scans its two
antennas and automatically selects
whichever is receiving the strongest,
clearest signal. This

True Diversity

switching is completely inaudible, but it
effectively increases overall range while
virtually eliminating potential interference
and phase cancellation problems.

2: Meter - This set of three multicolor LEDs
acts as a meter, indicating either battery
power or the strength of the incoming RF
signal. This meter can also be disabled
altogether to conserve battery power. See
#15 on the next page for more information.

3: Peak LED - This LED lights red when
output signal from the M32 is at the onset of
clipping (that is, when it is on the verge of
being distorted). If you see this light during
operation, move the microphone further
away or lower the output level of your instru­ment or transmitter. For more information,
see the “Setting Up and Using the Micro 32
System” section on page 12 in this manual.

4: Power switch - Use this to turn the M32
power on and off.

5: SQ (Squelch) Level control - This control determines the maximum range of the
M32 before audio signal dropout. Although it can be adjusted using the supplied plastic
screwdriver, it should normally be left at its factory setting. See the “Setting Up and
Using the Micro 32 System” section on page 12 in this manual for more information.

6: Battery holder - Insert a standard 9-volt alkaline battery here, being sure to observe
the plus and minus polarity markings shown. We recommend the Duracell MN 1604
type battery. Although rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries can be used, they do not supply
adequate current for more than four hours.

WARNING: Do not insert the battery

backwards; doing so can cause severe damage to the M32 and will void your warranty.
7: Plastic screwdriver - Specially designed for use in adjusting the M32 Squelch Level

control (see #5 above). See the “Setting Up and Using the Micro 32 System” section on
page 12 in this manual for more information.

SAMSON

SAMSON

MAX

MIN

POWER

ON

SQ LEVEL

2 3 1

5

7

4

6

1

+

-

UHF MICRO DIVERSITY RECEIVER

B

A

LOW MID HIGHPEAK