Shure W Series OPERATORS MANUAL

OPERATORS MANUAL
W25DR
W10BT
WL83
W10BT BODY-PACK TRANSMITTER
W25DR DIVERSITY RECEIVER
WL83 LAVALIER MICROPHONE
. . . ON ACQUIRING ONE OF THE FINEST WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEMS AVAILABLE TO­DAY. DESIGNED FOR SIMPLE SETUP AND RELIABLE OPERATION, THIS SYSTEM SHOULD PRO­VIDE YEARS OF DEPENDABLE, TROUBLE-FREE SERVICE. WE STRONGLY URGE THAT YOU READ THIS MANUAL; IT WILL SAVE YOU TIME AND EFFORT, AND ENSURE OPTIMUM SYSTEM OPERATION.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Wireless Microphone
Frequency Bands Diversity Reception Multiple Miking Directional Sensitivity Audio Performance With the Transmitter Off On Feedback
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Transmitter Range System Power
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What Else is Needed
W10BT Transmitter W25DR Receiver
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Setup and Connections
Unpacking Receiver
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For Microphone Level Use .....................................................
For Line Level Use ............................................................
Audio Output Connections ....................................................
Transmitter
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Microphone Connections ......................................................
Instrument Connections ......................................................
Battery Check ...............................................................
Polarity .....................................................................
Setting Gain Levels ..............................................................
Transmitter Gain ...............................................................
Sound Pressure Levels ........................................................
Receiver Gain
Audio Output Settings Checklist/Operation Specifications Antennas
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Transmitter ....................................................................
Receiver
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Receiver Antenna Distance ....................................................
Receiver-Transmitter Distance
Receiver Antenna Mounting
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Batteries ......................................................................
Troubleshooting Accessories
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FCC Certification .................................................................
Warranty Service ...............................................................
3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9
8 10 10 10 10 11 12 13 14 14
14 14 14 14 16 17 18 19 19
THE WIRELESS MICROPHONE
. . . what it is, what it does . . .
The wireless microphone is actually a system consist-
ing of a microphone, a transmitter, and a receiver. The
microphone is an electroacoustic transducer-a device
which converts sound waves (voice, musical in­struments, etc.) to electrical inpulses, which are sent to the transmitter. The transmitter generates a radio­frequency carrier, modulates this carrier with the microphone signals, and radiates this modulated RF signal like a tiny radio station. The receiver is matched to the transmitter frequency and picks up the transmitter signal through its antenna. The receiver’s circuitry detects the modulated RF signal and converts it to an audio voltage for routing (through a microphone input) to an audio mixer.
At this point, the wireless system acts like any microphone input to a sound system. The figure below shows the complete system, including that which is not a part of the wireless microphone system.
Frequency Bands.....
Shure wireless transmitters and receivers are single­channel, crystal-controlled units operating in the VHF­FM band between 150 and 216 megahertz. A total of 15 frequencies, computer-selected for interference-free operation, are readily available, and other frequencies can be ordered on a special basis. This means that up to 12 systems can be operated in a single sound installa­tion, simultaneously and without intermodulation pro­blems.
Diversity Reception.....
The most troublesome aspect of wireless microphone operation can be a phenomenon known as multipath transmission, or simply, multipath. This appears as a signal “dropout,”
(although temporary) signal loss. It’s caused when the direct signal and a reflected signal-bounced off walls, ceiling, metallic objects, etc.-arrive at the receiver at different times, literally out-of-phase, or when the signal path is completely blocked.
You’ve probably experienced this phenomenon with
the FM radio in your car. A dropout location, most likely caused by buildings, mountains, or even telephone
with annoying static or complete
poles, causes your radio signal to drop to a low, noisy level -sometimes disappearing completely. This is multipath.
Multipath is virtually a thing of the past with a unique antenna/receiver system called DIVERSIPHASE™. The two antennas supplied with the W25DR receiver are plac­ed some distance apart, and the signals each receives are compared at the receiver. The W25DR’s DIVER­SIPHASE circuit monitors each antenna, and if the direct and reflected signals appear to be creating an out-of­phase condition-and the inevitable signal dropout, the
receiver modifies the phase difference between the two
antennas until the two signals add in phase.
TYPICAL WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM
3
DIVERSIPHASE reception, plus close attention to the simple but important instructions in this manual, will help provide clean, clear wireless microphone operation in almost any setting.
Multiple Miking.....
More than one wireless microphone system can be used in one sound installation, but each must operate at a different frequency. Shure’s complement of 15 stan­dard transmitter-receiver frequencies is generally suffi­cient’ for any installation, but additional, special-order frequencies can also be supplied for a nominal service charge.
Directional Sensitivity.....
The transmitter radiates omnidirectionally, that is, ap­proximately equally in all directions. However, the signal is attenuated by bodies, walls, and other surrounding ob-
jects. The receiving antenna is similarly sensitive to
radiation in all directions.
Audio Performance.....
Three important characteristics of high-fidelity audio performance are wide frequency response, low distor­tion and good signal-to-noise ratio. The Shure wireless system uses high-quality FM circuitry for wide-range fre­quency response. Distortion is kept to a minimum through the use of linear-phase IF filtering and high­quality audio circuitry. A high signal-to-noise ratio and wide dynamic range are necessary for noise-free, op­timum performance. The Shure wireless uses com­plementary compression and expansion circuitry in the transmitter and receiver (companding) as well as pre-and
de-emphasis to achieve a maximum S/N ratio of 98 dB
A-weighted.
With the Transmitter Off.....
When the wireless microphone transmitter is turned off, the receiver can still receive transmissions from other sources. However, since the Shure system operates in the 150-216 MHz band, it’s not susceptible to such irritations as radio wave skip, or CB or FM broad­cast transmissions. The frequencies selected for use in the Shure system are computer-selected for minimum in­terference, but it’s almost impossible to guarantee a “clear channel” at any location or at any time. (For in­stance, care must be taken to avoid wireless microphone operating frequencies that are within the bandwidth of
locally operating TV channels 7 through 13.)
If the wireless system is to be in a permanent location, it should operate without interference until someone else in the vicinity starts using that frequency. But if the system is to be used in different locations (i.e., “on the road”), occasional frequency conflicts are inevitable. In any case, if the wireless microphone is not in use, the audio mixer gain should be turned down just as with a wired microphone. If the mixer controls are not accessi­ble, turn the receiver off when the transmitter is not in use to prevent unwanted signal pickup. If the system must be left on and mixer controls are not accessible, the transmitter should be left on to prevent outside in­terference pickup.
On Feedback.....
The use of a wireless microphone doesn’t eliminate
the possibility of annoying feedback. Feedback control
is generally achieved by careful placement of the speakers relative to the microphone, minimum levels necessary for the desired sound, good microphone
technique, and proper equalization of the sound system.
Transmitter Range.....
The FCC-required low power output of the transmitter means that its distance from the receiver should be kept as short as possible. Up to 150 meters (500 feet) should be considered a maximum, although 300-meter (1000-foot) or greater operation is often accomplished. Reflections, obstacles and interference in a given in­stallation will dictate the system’s limits.
Other wireless systems that claim greater distance and flexibility in their operation neglect to state that each installation must be considered separately. A wide variance exists between best- and worst-case condi­tions.
System Power.....
The receiver operates from power supplied by a
separate ac power converter provided with the system.
In addition to 120-volt operation with the power con­verter, the receiver can be operated from any well-filtered source of 13.5 Vdc at 200 mA. An optional 220-volt power converter is also available.
The transmitter operates from any 9-volt alkaline transistor-radio-type battery (Duracell MN1604 is recom-
mended). Typical battery life is 8 hours. Inexpensive carbon-zinc batteries are not recommended; their ex­tremely short life-about an hour-restricts them to emergency use only. If nickel-cadmium rechargeable
batteries are used, they must be 8.4-volt (not 7.2-volt) types. The lower-voltage batteries will not provide proper transmitter function,
What Else is Needed.....
In order to make this wireless microphone system
operational, the following is needed:
1.
A battery for the transmitter.
2.
A microphone for the transmitter -either one design-
ed specifically for the wireless transmitter (such as the Shure WL83), or most low-impedance microphones (dynamic, ribbon or condenser) with a
microphone adapter cable (WA310).* But if the wireless system is to be connected to the electrical output of a musical instrument instead of a
microphone, a transmitter instrument cable (WA300)
must be used.
3.
A receiver-to-mixer cable, with a female XLR connec­tor on one end (for the receiver output) and a mating connector for the mixer microphone input on the other.
Optional accessories, useful but not required, are described in this manual.
*IMPORTANT: Other microphones specified as being for wireless microphone use
are probably not wired for use in Shure wireless systems. Condenser microphones with phantom-powered preamp circuits-Shure SM85, SM87, etc.-will not operate with this transmitter.
4
W10BT TRANSMITTER
ANTENNA: This is a flexible, 1/4-wave vertically polarized antenna approximately 30 cm (12 in.) in length and permanently attached to the bottom surface of the transmitter. For proper operation, the antenna must be in the vertical position; it cannot be coiled or bundled.
BATTERY (not supplied): Only alkaline (Duracell
MN1604 or equivalent) or heavy-duty nickel-cadmium (8.4-volt) transistor-radio-type batteries should be used. A fresh alkaline battery should provide approximately 8
hours of operation, and a recharged nicad should pro­vide 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
BATTERY COMPARTMENT: Slide the cover down to expose the battery compartment. Make certain the bat­tery is installed using the proper positive (+) and
negative (-) polarity.
BATTERY TEST Push-Button Switch: Permits checking the condition of the installed battery when the Power switch is on. The BATTERY TEST LED Indicator will fail to light if the battery is weak or dead (or if the Power switch is off). Note that if the battery is tested periodical­ly during use, an impending battery failure can be detected: the LED will fail to light at 7.25 volts. At that time, approximately 1 hour of alkaline battery life is left.
BELT CLIP: Permits convenient attachment to the user’s belt, waistband or other clothing.
GAIN HI/LO Slide Switch: Selects the High Gain posi­tion to boost the signal of low-output microphones, or
the Low Gain position for high-output microphones or musical instruments. Allows maximum modulation without clipping.
MICROPHONE JACK: This is a 4-pin, miniature, male Tini Q-G connector designed to mate with Switchcraft
TA4F or equivalent connectors. A built-in 20-kilohm load
resistor provides proper matching for dynamic, ribbon or condenser microphones. Connector pin 2 supplies +5-volt bias voltage for condenser microphone phan­tom powering. In addition to microphones with TA4F connectors, Shure has available an adapter cable with a standard XLR female connector for use with conven­tional microphones (WA310), and a musical instrument adapter cable with a 1/4-inch phone plug on the equip­ment end (WA300).
MICROPHONE LEVEL Rotary Control: In conjunction with the GAIN HI/LO switch, this control provides addi­tional audio level adjustment. A small screwdriver is supplied to make adjustments.
MICROPHONE ON/OFF Toggle Switch: Permits the user to “mute” the microphone without turning the transmitter off. This avoids the “pop” that may accom­pany power turn-on and turn-off, and generally prevents pickup of unwanted signals by the receiver.
POWER ON/OFF Slide Switch: Applies power to the
transmitter circuitry. The switch is a low-profile type to minimize accidental turn-off.
5
W25DR RECEIVER
FRONT PANEL
POWER Push-Button Switch: Applies power from the external power converter or other well-filtered 13.5 Vdc (200 mA) sources to the receiver circuitry. An adjacent
POWER LED Indicator remains on while power is ap-
plied. (NOTE:
115 Vac, 60 Hz source, 13.5 Vdc is always present at the
power converter output.) AUDIO LEVEL Display: This 10-LED bar display in-
dicates the relative system modulation. Normal opera-
With the power converter connected to a
tion is shown by illumination of the green portion of the display, with occasional excursions into the yellow. If frequent or constant yellow or red indications are observed, the transmitter MICROPHONE LEVEL control should be lowered (counterclockwise), or the GAIN switch set to the Lo position. The display is calibrated in volume units (VU).
RF SIGNAL LEVEL Display: This 10-LED bar display in­dicates the relative RF level received from the transmit­ter. Red indicates an insufficient signal level; yellow in-
6
dicates a marginal signal condition; and green indicates an acceptable level. Full-scale indication is desirable for best signal-to-noise performance, but changes throughout the green portion of the display will still result in good operation. The receiver contains a squelch circuit to eliminate unwanted signals or noise in the absence of wireless transmitter signals. The squelch cir­cuit is not user-adjustable; it is preset to an optimum threshold setting of 1.0 µV, minimizing setting errors and difficulties in returning the squelch to its original set­ting.
LEVEL Rotary Control:
Adjusts the signal level at the
AUXILIARY OUTPUT Jack. The control operates in all IM-
PEDANCE Switch positions. IMPEDANCE Rocker Switch: A three-position switch
for selecting the proper source impedance to the AUX­ILIARY OUTPUT Jack. In general, the 8-Ohm position is for monitor headsets, 600 Ohms for monitor headsets or
600-ohm line devices, and the 10K (10 kilohms) for high-
impedance devices such as effects units and guitar
amplifiers.
REAR PANEL
ANTENNA A, B UHF-Type Connectors: Provide for con-
nection to the two 5/8-wave vertical antennas supplied with the W25DR. A 7.6-meter (25-foot) coaxial cable (sup­plied) is installed between one antenna and the receiver
connector to remotely locate the antenna for optimum
dropout-free performance in diversity operation. Addi­tional coaxial cables (WA280) can be connected for greater total antenna separation if necessary.
FUSE 1/2A: This is a 0.5-ampere, 250-volt, 3AG-type, fast-blow fuse that protects the power supply from ex­cessive current. It should be replaced only with a fuse of identical size and value (Littelfuse 312.500 or equivalent).
MICROPHONE OUTPUT LEVEL Rotary Control: This control determines the signal level at the OUTPUT Con­nector when the MlC/LlNE Switch is in the Mic position. Using this control, the signal level can be matched to that of a conventional wired microphone.
MlC/LlNE Slide Switch: In the Line position, the nominal (100% modulation) output level is not ad-
justable at the receiver and is used to drive 600-ohm
lines to mixers, amplifiers, etc. In the Mic position, the output level is adjustable from -55 dBm to -16 dBm using the MICROPHONE OUTPUT LEVEL Control. This position is used to drive 150-ohm microphone-level lines.
POWER 13.5 VDC NEGATIVE GROUND Coaxial Jack:
This connector accepts power from the supplied power converter, or from any well-filtered 13.5 Vdc (200 mA) supply.
OUTPUT 3-Pin XLR Connector: Provides balanced out­put for connection to the audio mixer or amplifier, de­pending on the MlC/LlNE Switch position.
7
SETUP AND CONNECTIONS
UNPACKING
Unpack all units and parts of the Wireless Microphone
System. If possible, retain packaging in the event of
returning a unit for repair. Check all boxes and inner packaging; if any damage or shortage is discovered, refer to the Warranty Service section of this manual.
RECEIVER
Place the W25DR receiver in its operating location and
connect the supplied power converter to the rear panel
POWER Jack. Connect the power converter to a 105 to 125 Vac, 60 Hz power source.
Assemble the two 5/8-wave whip antennas by screw-
ing the three sections of each antenna together. IMPOR-
TANT:
tions; all three sections must be connected for proper operation. Attach the right-angle UHF adapter to one ANTENNA connector. Attach one antenna to the upward-facing end of the UHF adapter. Connect the sup­plied 7.6m (25 ft) coaxial cable to the other ANTENNA in­put. NOTE: for optimum reception, refer to the Antenna section of this manual.
coaxial cable. The L-bracket and three screws supplied with the receiver permit the second antenna to be mounted on a wall or other vertical surface. After the bracket is fastened to the surface with the screws, insert the antenna base in the circular cutout of the bracket and tighten the hex nut and washer to secure the anten­na.
optimum diversity operation. A second cable can be ob­tained (WA280) to provide greater antenna separation of
15.2m (50 ft) for use in extremely difficult operational en­vironments. Note that the insulated hook at the top of the antenna can be used to suspend the antenna from any convenient non-metallic object (hook, bracket, rope, etc.).
the line-of-sight of the transmitter’s operating area. This will facilitate the best use of the receiver’s DIVER­SIPHASE™ circuit for clean, clear, dropout-free opera-
tion.
(WA220) or double (WA230) rack panel kit for mounting in a standard 19-inch audio equipment rack. Note that receiver rack-mounting requires remote location of both antennas.
For Microphone Level Use
Do not use either antenna with one or two sec-
For more information on antenna spacing
Connect the second antenna to the other end of the
The coaxial cable allows distance of 7.6m (25 ft) for
IMPORTANT:
If desired, the receiver can be installed in a single
Obtain an XLR-type balanced low-impedance audio
Make certain both antennas are within
connecting cable and connect between the W25DR OUT­PUT Connector and the mixer or amplifier microphone­level input. Make certain the receiver MlC/LlNE Switch is in the MIC position. Adjust the levels as described under Level Adjustment.
For Line Level Use
Obtain an XLR-phone plug unbalanced audio connec-
ting cable and connect it between the W25DR OUTPUT
Connector and the mixer or amplifier line input jack (see
Figure 1). Make certain the MlC/LlNE Switch is in the LINE position. No adjustments are necessary.
CABLE WIRING
FIGURE 1
Audio Output Connections
The front-panel 1/4-inch phone jack permits feeding
the W25DR output signal to:
An 8-ohm headphone (stereo or mono)
A 600-ohm headphone or line input
• A 10-kilohm input to a guitar amplifier or the auxiliary input of an amplifier, mixer or tape recorder.
The IMPEDANCE Switch adjacent to the phone jack selects the desired impedance, and the adjacent LEVEL Control sets the appropriate level for the input to be us­ed.
TRANSMITTER
With the transmitter POWER ON/OFF Switch in the OFF position, slide the battery compartment access cover down and off the transmitter case. Insert a new 9-volt transistor-radio-type battery (Duracell MN1604 or equivalent) in the compartment. Observe the proper polarity: the large (negative) terminal in the large chan­nel and the small (positive) terminal in the small channel.
8
Operation with a full charged, heavy-duty, 8.4-volt nickel­cadmium rechargeable battery is also permissible. IM-
PORTANT: Do not use a “conventional” g-volt-sized
nickel-cadmium battery; its 7.2-volt output will operate the transmitter for about 15 minutes. Carbon-zinc bat­teries will also result in diminished operating life (about
1 hour).
Microphone Connections
The Shure WL83 lavalier condenser microphone or similar microphones with identical wiring and a Switch­craft TA4F type connector can be plugged directly into the transmitter microphone jack. The WL83 will operate
using the transmitter’s regulated +5 Vdc available on pin 2 (see Figure 2). Self-powered (battery) condenser microphones can be used with the transmitter only if
they can be operated in an unbalanced mode (one side
grounded). Other non-self-powered condenser microphones may require special wiring; contact
Shure’s Service Department for further information.
Phantom-powered condenser microphones will not operate with the W10BT.
A high- or low-impedance dynamic or ribbon microphone with pin 2 output can be directly connected to the transmitter using the supplied WA310 microphone adapter cable. The cable has a 3-socket XLR connector on the microphone end and a Switchcraft TA4F connec­tor on the transmitter end, and is wired for unbalanced
low-impedance operation only (see Figure 2). Shure high­impedance microphones are not wired to operate with
the transmitter. If a Shure high-impedance microphone
must be used, pins 2 and 3 should be reversed (by
qualified service personnel). Using a low-output, low
impedance dynamic lavalier microphone such as
Shure’s SM11 may raise the mixer input gain ap-
preciably, which in turn may result in an increase in noise and signal “pumping.”
Instrument Connections
To connect the transmitter to a guitar or other musical instrument pickup, obtain an instrument adapter cable such as Shure’s WA300. This cable has a 1/4-inch phone
plug on one end and a Switchcraft TA4F on the other (see Figure 2), and should function normally with any high-impedance instrument pickup.
TRANSMITTER CONNECTIONS AND
ACCESSORY WIRING
FIGURE 2
Battery Check
Turn the transmitter power on and depress the BAT-
TERY TEST Switch. The adjacent LED should light, in-
dicating adequate transmitter input voltage. If the LED does not light, the alkaline battery voltage has dropped below 7.25 volts and the battery should be replaced or recharged (nicad only).
If the battery is tested periodically, the failure of the LED to light indicates approximately one hour of battery life left (alkaline only).
Polarity
With the Shure WL83 or a Shure low- or high­impedance XLR-connector microphone connected through a WA310 cable, positive pressure on the microphone diaphragm results in positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3 of the receiver OUTPUT connec­tor, and positive voltage on the tip of the AUX OUTPUT connector (8-ohm and 10-kilohm positions) or negative voltage on the tip (600-ohm position). Negative voltage applied to the tip of a WA300 cable will also result in the same output polarities.
9
SETTING GAIN LEVELS
With the system in place and connected, all units can now be turned on and the levels set to their optimum positions.
TRANSMITTER
Place the POWER Switch of the W25DR receiver in the ON position. The red POWER LED will light.
Turn the transmitter POWER ON/OFF Switch on. Observe the receiver RF SIGNAL LEVEL display: one of the green LED segments should light, indicating ade­quate RF signal strength for good transmission. A yellow LED indication means less than optimum signal transmission and/or reception, and a red LED indicates
less than satisfactory operation.
Turn the transmitter MIC ON/OFF Switch to the ON position. With a microphone connected to the transmit­ter, the receiver AUDIO LEVEL display will now respond to varying sound levels.
Set the transmitter GAIN switch as dictated by the type of input: Hi for low-impedance microphones; LO for high-impedance microphones and instrument pickups.
Sound Pressure Levels
Normal.
factory-set to provide optimum audio modulation at the receiver, as indicated by LED illumination in the -7 to 0 range (see Figure 3). Readings in this area will yield the highest dynamic range without overload and resulting distortion.
The transmitter MIC LEVEL Control has been
HIGH SPL GAIN ADJUSTMENT
FIGURE 4
Low. Low SPL applications such as soft-spoken in-
dividuals or conditions where the microphone must be at a greater-than-normal distance from the sound source,
may require an increase in the transmitter gain setting. To correct for a low-level condition, turn the MIC LEVEL Control up (clockwise; see Figure 5) until a proper (-7 to
0) LED reading is obtained.
AUDIO LEVEL DISPLAY
FIGURE 3
High.
For high sound pressure level (SPL) applications such as loud singing or musical instruments, the preset transmitter level may be too high. To avoid this overload and potential distortion condition, use the supplied screwdriver to turn the transmitter MIC LEVEL Control down (counterclockwise; see Figure 4). This adjustment should be made under the expected operating condi­tions, that is, with the high SPL singer or musical instru­ment in use at the microphone. Turn the control down until the optimum (-7 to 0) readings are obtained.
10
LOW SPL GAIN ADJUSTMENT
FIGURE 5
RECEIVER
The rear-panel receiver OUTPUT can be adjusted using the MICROPHONE OUTPUT LEVEL Control. In this way, the wireless system output can be made identical to that of a conventional wired microphone, avoiding extreme
differences in input level settings. Turning the MICROPHONE OUTPUT LEVEL Control counter­clockwise decreases the output level, and turning it clockwise increases the output.
Note that the control only functions when the MlC/LlNE Switch is in the MIC position. With the switch in the LINE position, the resulting line-level signal is at a fixed level.
AUDIO OUTPUT SETTINGS
If the receiver output is to be fed to headphones,
600-ohm line devices, effects units or guitar amplifiers
using the front-panel AUXILIARY OUTPUT Jack, set the 3-position IMPEDANCE Switch for the type of equipment to be used. Then rotate the LEVEL Control for the desired signal level as monitored on the headphones or as observed in the following equipment.
11
CHECKLIST/OPERATION
CHECKLIST
The following checklist shows the status of your
wireless microphone system at this point. If the follow-
ing steps have been performed and the expected result
obtained, the system can be put in operation.
c
Is the receiver properly located?
c
Is the power converter connected to the receiver? Is ac power present?
c
Are both antennas connected to the receiver?
c
Is the receiver connected to the rest of the sound system?
c
Is a fresh battery installed in the transmitter?
c
Is a microphone of the proper impedance and wiring being used?
c
Is the microphone or instrument connected to the transmitter?
c
Has the transmitter gain been set properly?
c
Have the transmitter and transmitter antenna been properly positioned?
c
Is the receiver output level properly set?
c
Is the audio output (headphones, effects, etc.) con­nected and properly set?
OPERATION
1.
Turn on the transmitter and receiver POWER Switches.
2.
Make sure the transmitter MIC ON/OFF Switch is on.
3.
Talk into the microphone (or play the connected musical instrument) and observe the receiver display for proper audio and RF indications.
4.
Continue talking or playing and move around the performing area. In each area, observe the receiver displays and make sure the RF signal strength is adequate.
In most cases, the problem of weak RF signal strength
is also indicated by audible evidence:
signal dropout, either continuous or intermittent, or noisy, distorted operation. The condition is generally caused by poor antenna location, RF signal blocking, or operation
beyond the system capability. Refer to the
Troubleshooting section for remedies.
Normal operation is shown by illumination of a green
LED on the RF SIGNAL LEVEL display (see Figure 6). Op-
timum operation means one of the three top LEDs (8, 9,
10) may be lit. Weak signals and inadequate operation are evidenced by illumination of the LEDs numbered 1 through 4.
RF LEVELS
FIGURE 6
Feedback-the annoying howl or squeal heard in the sound system- is as much a problem in wireless microphones as in wired mics. Checking microphone operation throughout the performing area will probably uncover any locations that are prone to audio feedback. If the problem cannot be solved by a slight lowering of the receiver output level or the associated amplifier gain, relocation of the speakers or possibly professional equalization of the sound system is recommended.
IMPORTANT
Every wireless microphone installation is a unique situation, and can present a variety of problems. Never attempt a live performance without a “walkthrough” first. And if major changes (fur­niture, scenery, etc.) were made since the walkthrough, check the wireless microphone operation again.
12
SPECIFICATIONS
SYSTEM
RF Carrier Frequency
150 to 216 MHz (15 frequencies between 167.875 and
213.8 MHz offered; others available)
Frequency Stability
0.005%, Crystal-Controlled
Ultimate Quieting
>90 dB at 30m (100 ft); 60 dB, line-of-sight at 402m
(1/4 mi.)
Modulation
± 12 kHz deviation compressor-expander system with
pre- and de-emphasis
Distortion
Less than 0.5% THD, 100 to 15,000 Hz; 0.3% at 1 kHz typical
Dynamic Range
98 dB A-weighted 92 dB unweighted
Audio Frequency Response
50 to 15,000 Hz, ± 1 dB
Audio Polarity
Positive pressure on microphone diaphragm results
in positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3 of OUTPUT connector, and positive voltage on tip of AUX OUTPUT connector (&ohm and 10-kilohm posi-
tions) or negative voltage on tip (600-ohm position).
Negative voltage applied to tip of WA300 cable
results in same output polarities.
Temperature Range
Receiver
Transmitter (alkaline batt.) . Transmitter (mercury batt.) . Transmitter (carbon-zinc) . . .
Certification
Type-accepted under FCC Parts 90 and 74
(FCC ID DD48NJW25DR)
RECEIVER RF Sensitivity
Less than 0.5 µV for 12 dB SINAD
Image Rejection
At least 75 dB
Spurious Rejection
At least 80 dB
Squelch Quieting
125 dB
Squelch Threshold
Internally preset to 1.0 µV
Mic/Line Output
Line . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mic
Audio Output
8 ohms
(ref. 12 kHz deviation)
. . . . . . . . . . -18° to 54°C (0° to 130°F)
. . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(ref. 12 kHz deviation)
0° to 38°C (32° to 100oF)
4° to 54°C (40° to 130°F)
7° to 32°C (45° to 90oF)
600 ohms, + 13.5 dB maximum
200 ohms, - 10 dB maximum (mic
level adjustable; -60 dB minimum)
75 mW maximum
600 ohms
10 kilohms
Antenna Input Impedance
50 ohms nominal
Antenna
5/8 wavelength whip, UHF connector, length: 991 mm (39 in.) (150 to 176 MHz); 762 mm (30 in.) (176 to 216
MHz)
Power
13.5 Vdc nominal (negative ground); 200 mA external power converter supplied
Dimensions
88.9 mm (incl. feet) x 209 mm W x 211 mm D (3-1/2 in. x 8-1/4 in. x 8-5/16 in. ) (depth is 238 mm-9-3/8 in. in­cluding front-panel controls and power connector
clip)
Weight
1.97 kilograms (4 lb 5-1/2 oz)
TRANSMITTER
RF Power Output
50 mW maximum; 30 mW typical
Modulation
54F3 ± 12 kHz deviation, 50 µsec pre-emphasis
Modulation Limiter
Internal compressor
Input Impedance
Actual: microphone; 91k, pin 4 open for microphone or instru-
ment pickup
Gain Switch
High position Low position
Gain Adjustment Range
Low Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antenna
Attached, 305 mm (12 in.), omnidirectional, flexible
wire
Power
Battery Type
Battery Life
Current Drain
Dimensions
102 mm H x 69.8 mm W x 25.4 mm D (4 in. x 2-3/4 in. x 1
in.) (not including antenna, controls and belt clip)
Weight
113 grams (4 oz); 170 grams (6 oz) with battery
. . . . . . . . . . . 40 mW maximum
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16k (20k dc), pin 4 wired to pin 3 for WL83
. . . . . . 0.0065 Vrms required for
. . . . . . . . .
. . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . .
. . . .
100% modulation
0.065 Vrms required for 100% modulation
9-volt alkaline (NEDA
1604A); 8.4-volt nicad op­tional 6 to 8 hours typical (alkaline); 1.5 to 2 hours typical (8.4-volt nicad; per
charge)
35 mA typical
0.2 mW maximum
20 dB 30 dB
13
ANTENNAS
TRANSMITTER
The transmitter antenna is a permanently attached, flexible wire, 1/4-wave antenna. It has an omnidirectional transmission pattern (equally effective in all directions) and is designed to operate in a vertically polarized mode.
This means that the antenna should hang downward dur-
ing operation; coiling or wadding it to minimize visibility will reduce the system’s operating distance.
RECEIVER
The receiver antennas are three-section, 5/8-wave
whip antennas approximately 762 mm (30 in.) for 176 to 216 MHz operating frequencies, or 991 mm (39 in.) for 150 to 176 MHz. Like the transmitter antenna, the receiver antennas have an omnidirectional pickup pattern and are vertically polarized. Vertical mounting of both anten-
nas is a requirement for optimum pickup.
The receiver antenna’s three sections must be joined
for optimum reception. One or two antenna sections will
result in reduced distance capability.
The receiver antennas are supplied with one right­angle UHF adapter for connecting one antenna to the receiver, a 7.6m (25 ft) coaxial cable (WA280) with UHF connectors for attaching the remotely located antenna to the receiver, and a wall-mount bracket (WA260) with
hardware for mounting the remote antenna to a wall,
cabinet, etc.
Receiver Antenna Distance
For optimum performance of the DIVERSIPHASE™ system, proper antenna spacing is extremely important. NEVER mount both antennas directly to the receiver connectors. A minimum of 1.8m (6 ft) between antennas is required for effective diversity reception (see Figure 7).
The 7.6m (25 ft) coaxial cable supplied with the anten-
nas will provide “optimum” spacing between antennas
of 6.1-7.6m (20-25 ft) under ideal conditions. This, of course, means little or no interference or reflections and constant line-of-sight transmission.
Unfortunately, the real world is not free of these prob­lems, and some applications may require greater anten­na spacing for good diversity reception. An additional
7.6m (25 ft) coaxial cable (WA280) will provide 15.2m (50 ft) spacing and decreased problems. If greater lengths are needed, the use of heavy-duty coaxial cable (Belden
8214 or equivalent) can be used for a maximum of 30m (100 ft).
RECEIVER-TRANSMITTER DISTANCE
Observing the following rules regarding transmitter to receiver antenna distance will yield the best results possible.
14
ANTENNA SPACING
FIGURE 7
Keep the transmitter to receiver antenna distance as short as possible. As the distance increases, the transmitted signal is weaker (see Figure 8).
Make certain the signal path between the transmitter
• and the receiver antennas is unobstructed. The transmitter wearer should be able to visually locate at least one receiver antenna at any time (see Figure
9).
Try to avoid operating the system through or around walls, ceilings, metal objects, etc. The usual result is reduced range and performance, and the signal reflections off metal obstructions will not only cause
reduced signal, but will introduce the problem of multipath distortion (see Figure 10).
Receiver Antenna Mounting
The remotely located receiver antenna can be mounted in a variety of locations and using a variety of mounting methods. The supplied wall mount bracket
TRANSMITTER-RECEIVER DISTANCE
FIGURE 8
(WA260) permits mounting the antenna to a wall, scenery flat, or top of file cabinet (never the side). The insulated hook at the end of the antenna allows it to be hung from any nonmetallic rope or other line. (IMPORTANT:
The antenna must not be mounted on or next to metal beams, metal-studded walls, equipment racks, etc., nor hung from wire cables; this can result in detuning the antenna and losing as much as 20 to 30 dB in RF signal
strength.)
The insulated base of the antenna can be attached to any material including metal. The threaded portion of the antenna (where the coaxial cable attaches) is a
neutral (ground-independent) point. A standard tapered­handle microphone swivel adapter (Shure A25B or equivalent) allows the antenna to be mounted on a microphone stand.
LINE-OF-SIGHT TRANSMISSION
FIGURE 9
OBSTRUCTION EFFECTS
FIGURE 10
ANTENNA PLACEMENT
FIGURE 11
15
BATTERIES
Careful transmitter battery selection, installation, use and care will help avoid problems in wireless microphone use. The most dependable, long-lived bat­teries at this time are the manganese-alkaline, or alkaline, types. In addition to offering the longest ex­pected operating life, they are commonly available.
One small word of caution about alkaline batteries: they are not all the same size. Make certain the battery you buy will make contact inside the battery compart-
ment.
Nickel-cadmium (nicad) batteries can save money through their rechargeability, but the tradeoff is in shorter expected life per charge. In addition, forgetting to recharge can be disastrous.
Another major consideration in nicads is that of operating voltage. The “heavy-duty” 8.4-volt nicads are satisfactory for transmitter use, but the “9-volt-size” nicads commonly found in stores are only 7.2 volts and will not provide satisfactory wireless performance.
Mercury batteries in the “9-volt-size” are also actually
8.4 volts. However, their discharge characteristics are such that they will yield between 10 and 15 hours of operation with the transmitter.
Carbon-zinc batteries are the least useful for transmit­ter operation. Their low cost is more than offset by their extremely short operating and shelf life. Although the “heavy-duty” (HD) carbon-zinc types offer better low­temperature performance and service capacity at moderate to high current drain, they will not offer ap­preciably better transmitter performance than standard carbon-zinc batteries.
Although battery operation is inhibited at low temperatures, storing batteries at low temperatures will increase their shelf life. They should be sealed in bags and, when ready for use, allow to warm up to room temperature (never heated!). Cold-stored batteries should be used as soon as possible after bringing to room temperature.
Battery life is shortened by high-temperature storage such as on amplifiers or in vehicles exposed to direct sunlight.
RECOMMENDED RANGES
Alkaline Mercury Zinc
Temperature 0° to 38°C
Shelf Life (room 30 months temperature; to months
80% of capacity)
(32° to 100°F) (40° to 130° F)
4° to 54°C 7° to 32°C
30 months
Carbon-
(45° to 90° F) 6 to 12
Nicad
-20° to 45°C
(-4° to 113°F) 10 to 80 days
The battery should be removed if the transmitter malfunctions, or if it is to be stored for a long period. Most batteries have a protective jacket, but partly or completely exhausted batteries are more prone to leakage.
Do not attempt to recharge replaceable (primary) bat­teries using “chargers”, heat or other methods. This may cause leakage or explosion. Do not disassemble bat­teries or dispose of them in fire.
MANUFACTURER
BATTERY TYPE
Alkaline
Mercury
Nickel-Cadmium
Carbon-Zinc
Carbon-Zinc (Heavy Duty)
& NO.
Bright Star 7590 Duracell MN1604 ESB A1604 Eveready 522 IEC 6LF22 NEDA 1604A Panasonic 6AM6 Radio Shack
23-553 Ray-O-Vac A1604 U.S. Military
BA3090 Varta 4022
Burgess H146X Duracell TR146X Eveready E146X NEDA 1604M Panasonic TR146 U.S. Military
BA1090/U
SAFT PS-9 Varta TR7/8
Duracell M1604 Eveready 216 Ray-O-Vac 1604 Radio Shack
23-464
Duracell
M1604HD Eveready 1222 Ray-O-Vac D1604 Radio Shack
23-583
VOLTS
9.0
8.4
8.4
9.0
9.0
EXPECTED LIFE
6 to 7 hours
10 to 15 hours
1-1/2 to 2 hours per charge
1 hour
1 hour
16
TROUBLESHOOTING
If you encounter any problems in the operation of your Shure Wireless Microphone System, first make certain
you’ve followed the ABC’s of proper wireless microphone operation:
Antennas -
Battery ­Controls -
If you still have a problem, follow the advice below. If you’re unable to solve the problem, contact your dealer or
Shure’s Service Department.
Movement around the performing area produces intermittent “swooshing” sound or complete loss of signal (dropout).
Audio signal sounds distorted at medium to high input levels.
Receiver picks up other (interfering) radio signals.
Audio signal contains undesirable whistling or chirping sounds, or sounds garbled.
Audio signal contains undesirable hissing sounds. One wireless microphone produces a lower output
than other wireless microphones in the same sound system.
Movement around the performing area produces an
undesirable squeal or howl (feedback).
Maximum operating distance (transmitter to receiver antenna) seems less than when system was new.
Short transmitter battery life.
Receiver not functioning.
Make certain the transmitter antenna is dangling vertically. Make certain the receiver antennas are properly connected, located and mounted.
Make certain the transmitter battery is fresh and of the right type. And while you’re at it, make cer­tain the receiver power converter is connected to a functioning power source.
All receiver and transmitter controls should be properly set for the desired operation. Recheck all settings for correct system setup.
PROBLEM
Make certain both antennas are properly connected, mounted and positioned for optimum reception. Mini­mize transmitter-to-receiver distance.
Reduce transmitter audio gain.
Make certain transmitter is turned on. If problem per­sists with transmitter on, it may be necessary to change system operating frequency. (Another transmitter, possibly a VHF-TV transmitter, may be operating at the same frequency.)
Two transmitters may be operating simultaneously on the same frequency. Turn one transmitter off. If
problem persists, may be caused by other radio signals (see above).
Transmitter and/or receiver gain may require
increase (setting is too low).
Relocate the speakers. Reduce the receiver and/or and/or sound system gain. (Professional equalization
may be required.) Transmitter antenna may require replacement.
Receiver antennas may require relocation.
Make certain replaceable batteries are alkaline (Duracell MN1604 or equivalent). Make certain
rechargeable batteries (nicads) are 8.4-volt types.
Make certain receiver power converter is connected to functioning ac source.
Make certain rear-panel 0.5A, 250V, 3AG fuse is not
blown.
SOLUTION
REMEMBER:
instructions carefully before contacting Shure for service.
Many apparent problems are due to improper setup and operation. Make certain you have followed
17
ACCESSORIES
The following Shure Wireless System accessories are available through your Shure dealer. (Replacement parts can be ordered from Shure’s Service Department; infor-
mation is available from Shure’s Service Department.)
MODEL WL83 LAVALIER CONDENSER MICROPHONE
- This is a tiny electret condenser microphone design­ed for high-quality sound reproduction in broadcasting, film and sound reinforcement applications. The WL83 plugs directly into the W10BT transmitter, and is sup­plied with a variety of mounting options.
MODEL WA220 SINGLE RECEIVER RACK MOUNT KIT
- This kit consists of brackets and hardware for mount­ing a W25DR receiver in a standard 19-in (483 mm) audio equipment rack.
MODEL WA230 DOUBLE RECEIVER RACK MOUNT KIT
- This kit consists of brackets and hardware for mount­ing two W25DR receivers in a standard 19-inch (483 mm)
audio equipment rack.
MODEL WA250 5/8-WAVE WHIP ANTENNA - This
3-section whip antenna is a replacement for the anten-
nas supplied with the W25DR receiver. It comes with a
right-angle UHF adapter.
MODEL WA260 ANTENNA WALL-MOUNT BRACKET
This bracket is a replacement for the 5/8-wave whip antenna bracket supplied with the W25DR receiver. It comes with mounting hardware.
MODEL WA280 COAXIAL ANTENNA CABLE
to the coaxial antenna cable supplied with the W25DR
receiver, the WA280 can be used as a replacement or to
extend the diversity antenna an additional 7.6m (25 ft).
MODEL WA300 INSTRUMENT CABLE
ft), single-conductor, shielded cable with a 1/4-inch phone plug on one end and a Switchcraft TA4F on the other. It is used for connecting the W10BT transmitter to a guitar or other musical instrument pickup.
MODEL WA310 MICROPHONE CABLE
single-conductor, shielded cable with a 3-socket (female) XLR connector on one end and a Switchcraft TA4F on the other. The WA310 is designed to connect the W10BT to a high- or low-impedance dynamic or condenser microphone for unbalanced operation.
MODEL WA320 AC POWER CONVERTER - This is a replacement for the 120 Vac power converter supplied with the W25DR receiver.
MODEL WA330 MICROPHONE CONNECTOR - This TA4F miniature connector permits microphones such as the Shure SM10A or SM98 to be connected directly to the W10BT transmitter.
­MODEL WA350 AC POWER CONVERTER - Similar to the WA320, this power converter permits operation at 220 to 240 Vac.
- Identical
- This is a 1.2m (4
- A 1.2m (4 ft),
18
FCC CERTIFICATION
The Shure Model W10BT transmitter is Type-Accepted
under Federal Communications Commission Parts 90 and 74. The Shure Model W25DR receiver is Type­Accepted under FCC Part 15. Licensing of Shure wireless microphone equipment is the user’s respon­sibility, and licensability depends on the user’s classification and application, and on the selected fre-
WARRANTY SERVICE
If your Shure wireless microphone equipment should require servicing under the Shure warranty, please con­tact:
Shure Brothers Inc. Attention: Service Department 222 Hartrey Avenue Evanston, Illinois 60202-3696 U.S.A. Telephone: (312) 866-5730
All claims of defects or shortage should be directed to
the above address. Please furnish model number,
operating frequency, and date, place and proof of pur­chase (such as a copy of the sales receipt) to establish warranty. Your letter should include all pertinent details
including applicable model or part numbers and a brief
description of the problem. Do not return any units or
parts to Shure unless requested to do so by Shure’s Ser-
vice Department. Any returned items must have prior authorization. Unauthorized returns are delayed in
handling; these delays can be avoided by contacting
Shure in advance and furnishing the necessary informa­tion.
quency. Shure strongly urges the user to contact the ap-
propriate telecommunications authority before choos­ing and ordering frequencies other than factory-preset frequencies. This recommendation applies to both
original equipment purchase and subsequent frequency
modification by Shure.
If you are requested to return the equipment by Shure’s Service Department, package the unit (with all information requested) as follows: Check to see that all parts are present and in place. If the original carton is not available, place the unit in a strong shipping carton at least 13 mm (6 in.) larger in all three dimensions than the unit. Fill the surrounding space with a resilient pack­ing material such as shredded paper, excelsior, Styrofoam, etc. Seal the carton with gummed paper tape,
tie it with a strong cord, and ship it prepaid to the Shure
Service Department.
It is extremely important that the packaged unit be
well-packed and fully insured. Damage claims are sub­ject to settlement between the shipper and the carrier,
and this can delay repair and return of the unit.
Shure reserves the right to make design changes and
product improvements without assuming any obligation
to install these changes or improvements on any
previously manufactured products. Shure also reserves
the right to ship new and/or improved products which are similar to the form, fit and function of the originally ordered products.
19
222 HARTREY AVENUE, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS 60202-3696 U.S.A. TELEPHONE: (312) 866-2200 CABLE: SHUREMlCRO
Copyright 1986, Shure Brothers Inc. 27A2315 (FL)
Printed in U.S.A.
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