Sonifex Reference Monitor Meters, RM-M1F53, RM-M1R53, RM-M2F53, RM-M2R53 User Handbook Manual

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Reference Monitor Meters

User Handbook

RM-M1F53 1 Stereo 53 Segment Meter, Free-Standing

RM-M1R53 1 Stereo 53 Segment Meter, Rack-Mount

RM-M2F53 2 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Free-Standing

RM-M2R53 2 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount

RM-M4R53 4 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount

RM-M1F106 1 Stereo 106 Segment Meter, Free-Standing

RM-M1R106 1 Stereo 106 Segment Meter, Rack-Mount

RM-M2R106 2 Stereo 106 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

This handbook is for use with the following product: RM-M1F53 1 Stereo 53 Segment Meter, Free-Standing RM-M1R53 1 Stereo 53 Segment Meter, Rack-Mount RM-M2F53 2 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Free-Standing RM-M2R53 2 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount RM-M4R53 4 Stereo 53 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount RM-M1F106 1 Stereo 106 Segment Meter, Free-Standing RM-M1R106 1 Stereo 106 Segment Meter, Rack-Mount RM-M2R106 2 Stereo 106 Segment Meters, Rack-Mount

Sonifex Ltd, 61, Station Road, Irthlingborough, Northants, NN9 5QE, England. Tel: +44 (0)1933 650 700 Fax: +44 (0)1933 650 726 Email: sales@sonifex.co.uk Website: http://www.sonifex.co.uk

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor. Sonifex Ltd shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any error contained in this manual.

No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, information storage and retrieval systems, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s personal use, without the express written permission of Sonifex Ltd. Unless otherwise noted, all names of companies, products and persons contained herein are part of a completely ctitious adaptation and are designed solely to document the use of Sonifex product.

REFERENCE MONITOR METERS USER HANDBOOK

Made in the UK by

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

CONTENTS

Warranty i

Warranty and Liability i

Unpacking the Reference Monitor Meter iii

Returning the Warranty Card iii

Safety Information iv

Safety of Mains Operated Equipment iv

Voltage Setting Checks iv

Fuse Rating iv

Power Cable and Connection iv

Ordering the Correct Mains Lead v

Installation Information v

Atmosphere v

Electromagnetic Radiation v

WEEE & RoHS Directives - Sonifex Statement vi

Reference Monitor Meters Introduction 1

System Block Diagram 2

Front Panel Indicators & Controls 3

Power LED 3

AES Lock LED 3

Level Alarm LED 4

Input Select Button (RM-M1-106 Only) 4

Main Meters 4

Table 1 – Meter Characteristic DIPSwitch settings 6

Meter Labelling 6

Brightness Control 7

Phase Meter 7

Reset Button 7

Rear Panel Connections & Operation 8

Mains Power 8

Audio Inputs 8

Digital Input Termination 8

Input Gain Adjustment 9

Table 2 – Input Gain DIPSwitch Settings 9

Remote Inputs and Outputs 10

Table 3 – Remote Input and Output Connection Details 11

RS232 Remote Control 11

Force Bootloader Mode 11

Serial Interface Commands & Responses Protocol 12

Serial Data Format 12

Error Messages 15

Reference Monitor Meters SCi Remote Control Software 16

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FIGURES

Contents (Continued)...

Connecting the RS232 Serial Port 16

Using SCI for the First Time 16

Loaded Launcher 17

SCi for Reference Monitor Meters – Main Screen 17

SCi for Reference Monitor Meters – Options Screen 18

Firmware Updates 20

The Misc screen shows the Update Firmware option. 20

Technical Specication 21

Figures

Fig A: Packing List iii

Fig B: Power Connections iv

Fig C: Mains Lead Table v

Fig 1-1: Reference Monitor Meters Block Diagram 2

Fig 1-2: RM-M1-53 Front Panel 3

Fig 1-3: RM-M2-53 Front Panel 3

Fig 1-4: RM-M1-106 Front Panel 3

Fig 1-5: Meter Labelling Options – 53 Segment Display 6

Fig 1-6: Meter Labelling Options – 106 Segment Display 6

Fig 1-7: Brightness Control 7

Fig 1-8: Phase Meter 7

Fig 1-9: Reset Button 7

Fig 1-10: RM-M2-53 Rear Panel 8

Fig 3-1: SCi Launcher 16

Fig 3-2: SCi Device Discovery Panel 16

Fig 3-3: SCi Launcher Loaded 17

Fig 3-4: SCi Main Status Screen for RM-M2-53 17

Fig 3-5: SCi Main Status Screen for RM-M1-106 18

Fig 3-6: SCi Options Screen 18

Fig 3-7: SCi Misc Screen 20

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Warranty

Warranty and Liability

Important: the purchaser is advised to read this clause

(a) The Company agrees to repair or (at its discretion) replace Goods which are found to

be defective (fair wear and tear excepted) and which are returned to the Company within 12 months of the date of despatch provided that each of the following are satised:

(i) notication of any defect is given to the Company immediately upon its

becoming apparent to the Purchaser;

(ii) the Goods have only been operated under normal operating conditions and

have only been subject to normal use (and in particular the Goods must have been correctly connected and must not have been subject to high voltage or to ionising radiation and must not have been used contrary to the Company’s technical recommendations);

(iii) the Goods are returned to the Company’s premises at the Purchaser’s expense;

(iv) any Goods or parts of Goods replaced shall become the property of

the Company;

(v) no work whatsoever (other than normal and proper maintenance) has been

carried out to the Goods or any part of the Goods without the Company’s prior written consent;

(vi) the defect has not arisen from a design made, furnished or specied by

the Purchaser;

(vii) the Goods have been assembled or incorporated into other goods only in

accordance with any instructions issued by the Company;

(viii) the defect has not arisen from a design modied by the Purchaser;

(ix) the defect has not arisen from an item manufactured by a person other than

the Company.

In respect of any item manufactured by a person other than the Company, the Purchaser shall only be entitled to the benet of any warranty or guarantee provided by such manufacturer to the Company.

(b) In respect of computer software supplied by the Company the Company does not

warrant that the use of the software will be uninterrupted or error free.

(i) for death or personal injury to the extent that it results from the negligence of

the Company, its employees (whilst in the course of their employment) or its agents (in the course of the agency);

(ii) for any breach by the Company of any statutory undertaking as to title, quiet

possession and freedom from encumbrance.

WARRANTY

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

(d) Subject to conditions (a) and (c) from the time of despatch of the Goods from the

Company’s premises the Purchaser shall be responsible for any defect in the Goods or loss, damage, nuisance or interference whatsoever consequential economic or otherwise or wastage of material resulting from or caused by or to the Goods. In particular the Company shall not be liable for any loss of prots or other economic losses. The Company accordingly excludes all liability for the same.

(e) At the request and expense of the Purchaser the Company will test the Goods to

ascertain performance levels and provide a report of the results of that test. The report will be accurate at the time of the test, to the best of the belief and knowledge of the Company, and the Company accepts no liability in respect of its accuracy beyond that set out in Condition (a).

(f) Subject to Condition (e) no representation, condition, warranty or other term,

express or implied (by statute or otherwise) is given by the Company that the Goods are of any particular quality or standard or will enable the Purchaser to attain any particular performance or result, or will be suitable for any particular purpose or use under specic conditions or will provide any particular capacity, notwithstanding that the requirement for such performance, result or capacity or that such particular purpose or conditions may have been known (or ought to have been known) to the Company, its employees or agents.

(g) (i) To the extent that the Company is held legally liable to the Purchaser for any

single breach of contract, tort, representation or other act or default, the Company’s liability for the same shall not exceed the Price of the Goods.

(ii) The restriction of liability in Condition (g)(i) shall not apply to any liability

accepted by the Seller in Condition (c).

(h) Where the Goods are sold under a consumer transaction (as dened by the

Consumer Transactions (Restrictions on Statements) Order 1976) the statutory rights of the Purchaser are not aected by these Conditions of Sale.

WARRANTY

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

iii

Unpacking the Reference Monitor Meter

The Reference Monitor Meter is shipped with the following equipment. Please check your packaging to ensure that you have all of the items below. If anything is missing, please contact the supplier of your equipment immediately.

Quantity

Product Type IEC leads Handbook, CD &

warranty card

Meter scale overlay

sheet

RM-M1F53 1 1 1

RM-M1R53 1 1 1

RM-M2F53 1 1 2

RM-M2R53 1 1 2

RM-M4R53 2 1 4

RM-M1F106 1 1 1

RM-M1R106 1 1 1

RM-M2R106 2 1 2

Fig A: Packing List

Each Reference Monitor Meter is shipped in protective packaging and should be inspected for damage before use. Where an item is found to have transit damage, notify the carrier immediately with all the relevant details of the shipment. Packing materials should be kept for inspection and also for if the product needs to be returned.

Returning the Warranty Card

In order to register the date of purchase so that we can keep you informed of any design improvements or modications, it is important to complete the warranty registration document that is enclosed and return it to Sonifex Ltd in the UK.

For your own records you should write down the serial number (which can be found on the rear of the Reference Monitor Meter.

Serial Number ………………………………………

WARRANTY

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Safety Information

Safety of Mains Operated Equipment

This equipment has been designed to meet the safety regulations currently advised in the country of purchase and it conforms to the safety regulations specied by use of the CE Mark.

Warning : There are no user serviceable parts inside the equipment. If you should ever need to look inside the unit, always disconnect the mains supply before removing the equipment covers.

Voltage Setting Checks

Ensure that the machine operating voltage is correct for your mains power supply by checking the box in which your Reference Monitor Meter was supplied. The voltage is shown on the box label. Please note that all Reference Monitor Meters have a universal power supply, 85-264V AC, 47-63Hz.

Fuse Rating

The Reference Monitor Meter is supplied with a single fuse in the live conducting path of the mains power input. For reasons of safety it is important that the correct rating and type of fuse is used. Incorrectly rated fuses could present a possible re hazard, under equipment fault conditions. The fuse rating for the Reference Monitor Meter is:

1A 5 x 20mm SB

The active fuse is tted on the outside rear panel of the unit.

Power Cable and Connection

An IEC power connector is supplied with the Reference Monitor Meter which has a moulded plug attached – this is a legal requirement. If no moulded plug has been supplied with your Reference Monitor Meter, please contact your supplier, because an IEC connector is always supplied from the Sonifex factory.

If for any reason, you need to use the Reference Monitor Meter with a dierent power cable, you should use the following wiring guidelines.

Wire Colour Connection

Green, or green and yellow Earth (E)

Blue, or black Neutral (N)

Brown, or red Live (L)

Fig B: Power Connections

Connect the equipment in accordance with the connection details and before applying power to the unit, check that the machine has the correct operating voltage for your mains power supply.

Important Note : The terminal marked on the rear panel must be earthed.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Ordering the Correct Mains Lead

When ordering a Reference Monitor Meter from Sonifex, it is helpful if you can specify your required operating voltage and mains lead. After the product code add:

UK, for 230V, UK 3 pin to IEC lead

EC, for 230V, European Schuko 2 pin to IEC lead

US, for 115V, 3 pin to IEC lead

AU for 230V, Australasian 3 pin to IEC lead

Fig C: Mains Lead Table

E.g. order RM-M1R53 UK for a UK IEC lead to be supplied.

Installation Information

Atmosphere

The units should be installed in an area that is not subject to excessive temperature variation (<0°C, >50°C), moisture, dust or vibration.

Electromagnetic Radiation

The cover is connected to earth by means of the xing screws. It is essential to maintain this earth ground connection to ensure a safe operating environment and provide electromagnetic shielding.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

WEEE & RoHS Directives - Sonifex Statement

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive was agreed on 13 February 2003, along with the related Directive 2002/95/EC on Restrictions of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS).

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) aims to minimise the impacts of electrical and electronic equipment on the environment during their life times and when they become waste. It applies to a huge spectrum of products. It encourages and sets criteria for the collection, treatment, recycling and recovery of waste electrical and electronic equipment. All products manufactured by Sonifex Ltd have the WEEE directive label placed on the case. It gives a contact for individuals who are unsure about the correct procedure when the product has reached its “end of use”.

Sonifex Ltd will be happy to give you information about local organisations that can reprocess the products, or alternatively all products that have reached “end of use” can be returned to Sonifex and will be reprocessed correctly free of charge.

Sonifex Ltd has phased out the use of certain hazardous substances identied in the European Union’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. The RoHS directive limits the use of certain hazardous substances currently used in EEE manufacture, including lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and halide-containing compounds PBB (polybrominated biphenyl) and PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ether). Elimination of these substances will result in more environmentally friendly recycling of electronic equipment. For the products which Sonifex manufacture, the main area where products were aected was in the use of lead for manufacturing and assembling electronics circuit boards.

Sonifex Ltd practices lead-free (LF) manufacturing processes. LF solder is used on the surface-mount PCB manufacturing processes and for hand soldering. The printed circuit boards (PCBs) used are either gold plated, or immersion tin plated, both of which use no lead. Historically the PCBs were hot air solder levelled (HASL) PCBs which used tin/lead based solder.

The manufacturing processes include the assembly of purchased components from various sources. Product is oered as RoHS compliant, or LF, only after sucient evidence is received from the component manufacturers that their components are RoHS compliant. Sonifex Ltd relies solely on the distributor, or manufacturer, of the components for identication of RoHS compliance. Thus whilst every eort is made to ensure compliance, Sonifex Ltd makes no warranty, or certication, or declaration of compliance concerning said components.

Sonifex Ltd denes “Lead Free” as pertaining to any product, which has been manufactured by Sonifex Ltd using components which have been declared by the manufacturers as “Lead Free”. All statements by Sonifex Ltd of RoHS compliance are based on component manufacturer documentation.

WEEE & ROHS DIRECTIVE

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

INTRODUCTION

Reference Monitor Meters Introduction

The Reference Monitor Meters oer accurate, high resolution metering of up to 2 stereo audio sources in a compact 1U freestanding or rack mount package. All stereo sources are auto-switching between either analogue or digital AES/EBU formats with sample rates up to 192kHz accepted.

The level of each stereo source is displayed on a pair of bright, multi-coloured bar graph meters, with a choice nine accurately modelled scales/responses to suit dierent applications and local preferences. Separate phase meters indicate channel correlation or phase error conditions, and additional LEDs show digital input lock and audio level alarm status.

On the rear panel, open-collector alarm outputs provide hardware indication of audio under-level or silence, audio over-level, sustained phase errors above 90 degrees and digital source lock.

Alarm audio threshold levels and time-out durations are all fully congurable via a RS232 connection in conjunction with Sonifex SCi Windows-based remote control software. Status monitoring and unit identication, plus rmware updates to add extra functionality are also supported by the Sonifex SCi software. The open control protocol also allows operation with terminal programs or customised applications.

There are 3 models in the Reference Monitor Meters range which can be supplied in rackmount, freestanding and twin versions to provide eight dierent products.

The RM-M1F53 has a single stereo audio input and a pair of 53-segment bar graph meters.

The RM-M2F53 is a dual stereo input version with a pair of 53-segment bar graph meters for each audio input. Separate phase and status LEDs for each audio input are also provided

The RM-M1F106 is a dual stereo audio input version, with a pair of 106-segment bar graph meters for greater display accuracy. A front panel mounted input select switch selects the

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

INTRODUCTION

audio source to be monitored, from either of the 2 stereo inputs, or from a mono mix of each channel with channel 1 shown on the left meter and channel 2 shown on the right meter.

The Reference Monitor Meters are available in 1U rack mount versions:

RM-M1R53 Rack mount version of RM-M1F53. RM-M2R53 Rack mount version of RM-M2F53. RM-M4R53 Dual rack mount version combining 2xRM-M2R53 units providing 4 stereo inputs. RM-M1R106 Rack mount version of RM-M1F106. RM-M2R106 Dual rack mount version combining 2xRM-M1R106 units providing 4 stereo inputs.

In this document, generic model references are used to refer to features that are relevant to all versions of that particular model, for example:

RM-M1-53 refers to the RM-M1F53 and the RM-M1R53, RM-M2-53 refers to the RM-M2F53 and the RM-M2R53 and RM-M1-106 refers to the RM-M1F106 and the RM-M1R106.

All Reference Monitor Meters products operate from global mains voltages (85-264V AC, 47-63Hz) without adjustment.

System Block Diagram

Analogue

or Digital

Input

AES/EBU

Receiver

AES/EBUTermination

A/D

Converter

A/D Auto Switch

Analogue

or Digital

Input

(Select Switch on RM-M1F06, RM-M1R106 &

RM-M2R106 Only)

Global Mains Power

AES/EBU

Receiver

Display

Driver

Phase

Metering

Level

Metering

AES/EBUTermination

A/D

Converter

A/D Auto Switch

RS232 Remote Control

Alarms & Logic I/O

Configuration

Switches

Indicators Metering Display

Input 1

Input 2 (Input 2 not on RM-M1F53 or RM-M1R53)

Micro Controller

I/P Gain

Front Panel

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FRONT PANEL INDICATORS & CONTROLS

Fig 1-1: Reference Monitor Meters Block Diagram

Front Panel Indicators & Controls

Fig 1-2: RM-M1F53 Front Panel

Fig 1-3: RM-M2F53 Front Panel

Fig 1-4: RM-M1F106 Front Panel

Power LED

The Power LED illuminates whilst internal power is present within the unit. If this indicator is not on, the most likely reason is simply the absence of mains power, but under fault conditions it may also indicate a ruptured mains fuse or a problem with the internal power supply module.

AES Lock LED

The AES Lock LED illuminates when the corresponding audio input is connected to a valid digital AES/EBU audio signal. It will not illuminate if the audio input is an analogue signal, or if a digital audio signal is applied which has a sample rate outside the acceptable range of the unit, contains invalid/non-audio data or is too weak for the receiver to lock on to.

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FRONT PANEL INDICATORS & CONTROLS

Level Alarm LED

The Level Alarm LED illuminates when the alarm condition setting for the corresponding audio input has been met. By default, the alarm condition is set to Input Clip. With this setting, the Level Alarm LED will illuminate when the input signal level (taking into account any input gain applied) has either exceeded or come within 0.5dB of the maximum acceptable input level. See the section “Reference Monitor Meters SCi Remote Control Software” for further details on additional alarm settings.

Input Select Button (RM-M1-106 Only)

The Input Select Button determines which source is currently routed to the metering. Pressing the button selects the next available source, and the button illumination indicates the current selection. With input 1 selected, the button is not illuminated. When the button illuminates green, the left meter shows a mono mix of input 1 and the right meter shows a mono mix of input 2. When the button illuminates red, input 2 is selected.

When mains power is removed, the currently selected input is stored in non-volatile memory and recalled once power is restored.

Main Meters

Fig 1-5: RM-M2-53 53 Segment Meter & RM-M1-106 106 Segment Meter

The main meters are made up of 53 or 106 segment, multicoloured LED bar graphs (dependent on model). Units with 53 segment displays will have a pair of bar graphs for each input channel. On all units, the top bar graph is the left channel and the lower bar graph is the right channel.

Several dierent meter characteristics are available to suit dierent applications and regional preferences, and each available input channel can be individually set to the required setting. The active meter characteristic is selected using the DIPSwitches in the “Settings 2” bank (found on the rear panel of the unit), according to the following table.

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FRONT PANEL INDICATORS & CONTROLS

Meter Characteristics

Scale Range*

0dBFS

Reference

Amber Section

Starts at*

Red Section

Starts at*

Dual PPM + Standard VU

-13 to +13dBu +18dBu 0dBu +8dBu

BBC PPM or EBU PPM**

-13 to +13dBu +18dBu 0dBu +8dBu

Nordic PPM -40 to +12dBu +18dBu 0dBu +6dBu

AES Digital PPM -52 to 0dBFS +18dBu -18dBFS 0dBFS

DIN PPM -54 to +5dBu +18dBu 0dBu +4dBu

Standard VU -24 to +3VU +18dBu -4VU 0VU

Extended VU -59 to +15VU +18dBu -4VU 0VU

German PPM -54 to +15dBu #+15dBu -54dBu +7dBu

AES Digital PPM (SMPTE RP.0155)

-52 to 0dBFS +18dBu -20dBFS 0dBFS

Meter Characteristics

Audio Input 1 Audio Input 2

SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 SW5 SW6 SW7 SW8

Dual PPM + Standard VU

OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

BBC PPM or EBU PPM**

ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF

Nordic PPM OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF

AES Digital PPM ON ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF OFF

DIN PPM OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF

Standard VU ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF

Extended VU OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF

German PPM ON ON ON OFF ON ON ON OFF

AES Digital PPM

(SMPTE RP.0155)

OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON

* With 0dB of input gain selected # With 0dB input gain (SW6 and SW7 o)

**May be BBC or EBU PPM depending on the choice of scale plate.

Table 1 – Meter Characteristic DIPSwitch settings

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FRONT PANEL INDICATORS & CONTROLS

The meter characteristics can be changed at any time, without the need to remove power from the unit. A total of sixteen meter characteristics can be supported for each audio input, allowing additional settings to be added in future rmware versions.

Meter Labelling

Each meter characteristic possesses dierent scaling, range and ballistics according to the relevant British or International standards and self-adhesive scales for each of the characteristics are supplied with the unit.

Fig 1-5: Meter Labelling Options – 53 Segment Display

Fig 1-6: Meter Labelling Options – 106 Segment Display

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

FRONT PANEL INDICATORS & CONTROLS

Once the desired meter characteristic has been chosen, proper scale labelling may be ensured by removing the appropriate scale from the backing paper and applying it to the recess provided between the meter bar graphs.

Brightness Control

The brightness of the bar graph meters and all other front panel indicators may be adjusted to suit user preference or to match similar units nearby.

Fig 1-7: Brightness Control

A miniature at-bladed screwdriver inserted into the hole next to the brightness symbol should be turned clockwise to increase the brightness or anti-clockwise to decrease it.

Phase Meter

Fig 1-8: Phase Meter

The ve-segment LED phase meter indicates the average phase correlation between the left and right channels of the corresponding stereo audio input. It is labelled in both degrees of phase shift and amount of correlation. A monophonic signal fed to both channels of the corresponding audio input will have a correlation of 1.0, while inverting one such channel – making it perfectly out of phase – gives a correlation of -1.0. True stereo signals will produce a uctuating phase correlation.

Reset Button

In the unlikely event that the Reference Monitor Meters unit fails to respond, press the recessed reset button via the small hole in the front panel.

Fig 1-9: Reset Button

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS & OPERATION

Rear Panel Connections & Operation

Fig 1-10: RM-M2-53 Rear Panel

Mains Power

Power is applied via a standard three-pin IEC male socket. Mains voltages between 85V and 264V AC at frequencies between 47 and 63Hz are accepted without adjustment. A 1A, 5 x 20mm SB fuse is used. The Earth pin MUST be connected to ensure safety.

Audio Inputs

Three-pin female XLR connectors are provided for the connection of up to two stereo audio sources (dependent on model). The pin assignations are as follows:

Pin 1: Ground Pin 2: In-phase signal (“hot”) Pin 3: Out-of-phase signal (“cold”)

Unbalanced signals may also be used by linking pins 1 and 3 and applying the unbalanced signal to pin 2. Each of the audio inputs accepts either a pair of analogue line-level signals (using both input XLRs) or a single AES/EBU digital signal (attach to the left-hand XLR of the pair and leave the right-hand XLR unconnected). The unit automatically detects digital audio signals and re-congures the input accordingly. A full-scale digital input signal (0dBFS) corresponds to the maximum analogue input signal level as shown in Table 1 (with no extra input gain applied).

Digital Input Termination

Switchable termination is provided to allow the Reference Monitor Meters inputs to be bridged across an existing AES/EBU connection without double-termination, but this should only be attempted with the terminating equipment mounted adjacent to the Reference Monitor unit and with connections kept as short as possible. It is strongly recommended that the digital input termination is set to ON at all times. Failure to do so may result in unreliable reception of digital input signals and/or crosstalk between sources.

The 110Ω input termination for the AES/EBU digital inputs is controlled by the settings of DIPSwitches 1 and 2 in the “Settings 1” bank (found on the rear panel of the unit) as follows:

SW1: When set to ON, digital input 1 is terminated with 110Ω. SW2: When set to ON, digital input 2 is terminated with 110Ω (valid on 2 channel units only)

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS & OPERATION

Input Gain Adjustment

For both analogue and digital sources the default input gain is zero, i.e. an input of 0dBu results in a reading of 0dBu on the meters. However, to accommodate lower level sources it is possible to introduce extra input gain in 6dB steps. This gain can be applied to each input channel independently, and it is controlled by the settings of DIPSwitches 3, 4, 5 and 6 in bank “Settings 1” (found on the rear panel of the unit), according to the following table.

Input Gain

Maximum Signal Level (Analogue Sources)

Maximum

Signal Level

(Digital

Sources)

Audio Input 1 Audio Input 2

SW3 SW4 SW5 SW6

0dB

+18dBu

(+15dBu for German PPM meter setting)

0dBFS OFF OFF OFF OFF

+6dB

+12dBu

(+9dBu for German PPM meter setting)

-6dBFS ON OFF ON OFF

+12dB

+6dBu

(+3dBu for German PPM meter setting)

-12dBFS OFF ON OFF ON

+18dB

0dBu

(-3dBu for German PPM meter setting)

-18dBFS ON ON ON ON

Table 2 – Input Gain DIPSwitch settings

The input gain setting can be changed at any time, without the need to remove power from the unit.

Note that the application of extra input gain reduces the maximum signal level permitted before signal clipping occurs. When the Level Alarm LED is congured to Input Clip, this indicator illuminates at the onset of clipping, with extended illumination indicating that the input gain should be reduced and/or the input signal levels attenuated.

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS & OPERATION

Remote Inputs and Outputs

A 15-way female D-type connector carries eight open-collector status outputs and four logic-level control inputs. The pin assignments are as follows:

Pin Number I/O Function

1 - Ground

Audio input 1 under-level alarm – open collector with latching capability

Audio input 1 over-level alarm – open collector with latching capability

10 O

Audio input 1 sustained phase error alarm – open collector with latching capability

3 O Audio input 1 AES/EBU lock output – non-latching open collector

11 O

Audio input 2 under-level alarm – open collector with latching capability

Audio input 2 over-level alarm – open collector with latching capability

12 O

Audio input 2 sustained phase error alarm – open collector with latching capability

5 O Audio input 2 AES/EBU lock output – non-latching open collector

13 - Ground

6 - Ground

14 I Audio Input 1 alarm reset – pull low to activate

7 I Audio Input 2 alarm reset – pull low to activate

15 I Reserved for future use

8 I Reserved for future use

Table 3 – Remote Input and Output Connection Details

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS & OPERATION

Open-collector outputs are low (conducting) when active. Open-collector outputs are rated at 50mA and 30V. See section Reference Monitor Meters SCi Remote Control Software for further details on alarm settings.

The AES/EBU Lock output is a real-time (non-latching) status output which becomes active if a valid AES/EBU signal is detected on the corresponding audio input. The open-collector output is low (conducting) when a valid AES signal is detected. The active-low control inputs all have internal pull-ups. Equipment driving these inputs need sink only 1mA and block

3.3V. Asserting the Alarm Reset input by pulling it low resets any active Alarm outputs to their un-triggered states and allows them to monitor for new alarm conditions.

RS232 Remote Control

A 9-way female D-type connector carries a standard RS232 interface via which advanced conguration options may be set and many functions may be remotely controlled. The pin assignments are as follows:

Pin 2: Data transmit Pin 3: Data receive Pin 5: Ground All other pins are unused.

All models of the Reference Monitor Meters will interface directly with personal computer serial ports at standard RS232 signal levels using a straight-through cable. The data format is 19200 baud with 8 data bits, even parity and 1 stop bit. XON/XOFF ow control is used when necessary.

Sonifex SCi software, when installed on a suitable PC, provides straightforward graphical access to all remote control and conguration options. Alternatively, commands may be issued from any text-based terminal program (e.g. Hyperterminal) or custom software may be developed for specic requirements

Sonifex SCi software is available free of charge from the sonifex website - www.sonifex.co.uk

Force Bootloader Mode – Bank “Settings 1” DIPSwitch 8

This mode should only be used if the unit fails to respond after a rmware upgrade attempt. With this DIP switch on, the Reference Monitor Meters will force the Bootloader to run and allow initiation of an update under any circumstances. Once an update has completed, this switch should be returned to the o position.

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS & RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Serial Interface Commands & Responses Protocol

Sonifex SCi remote control software handles all communication with the Reference Monitors via a convenient graphical user interface. However, this protocol is provided for those users who wish to develop their own remote control applications or communicate with the Reference Monitors using a text-based terminal program.

For more information on how to install and operate the SCi software, please see section “Reference Monitor Meters SCi Remote Control Software”.

Serial Data Format

Connection is initially 19200,e,8,1 with XON/XOFF ow control. Most of the commands follow the same structure: a 3 letter command followed by a colon, followed by a parameter (if any) and terminated by Carriage Return with optional Line Feed. A Line Feed character may be sent but it will be ignored. Commands are not case sensitive. Responses will be CR & LF terminated.

After the Reference Monitor Meters has been powered-up, an initialisation string is sent: “Initialising ” followed by the model number and version number of the currently installed rmware.

Following are the commands and the expected responses:

Command Description Response

ALC:n Clear alarm status where: ACK: or ERR:

n = 0 (input 1)

n = 1 (input 2)

Bnn: Set Baud Rate where: ACK: (at old rate)

nn = 11 (115200 baud)

nn = 57 (57600 baud)

nn = 38 (38400 baud)

nn = 19 (19200 baud)

nn = 96 (9600 baud)

FPL:n Front panel lock where: ACK: or ERR:

n = 0 (unlock)

n = 1 (lock)

DWN: **Download rmware ACK:

New rmware installed when correct

(ACK: indicates end of rmware

le is received download can start)

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS & RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS & RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Command Description Response

LCK: AES lock status request where: LCK:yz

y = input 1 status (0=unlock, 1=lock)

z = input 2 status (0=unlock, 1=lock)

IPS:n Set input select where: ACK: or ERR:

n = 0 (select input 1)

n = 1 (select input 2)

n = 2 (select mono mix)

only valid for RM-M1-106

OPR: Alarm option request where: OPR:klmnopqrstuvwxyz

k = Input 1 analogue under-level threshold (2 chars)

l = Input 1 analogue over-level threshold (2 chars)

m = Input 1 digital under-level threshold (2 chars)

n = Input 1 digital over-level threshold (2 chars)

o = Input 1 under-level timeout period (4 chars)

p = Input 1 over-level timeout period (4 chars)

q = Input 1 phase timeout period (4 chars)

r = Input 1 alarm conguration options (4 chars)

s = Input 2 analogue under-level threshold (2 chars)

t = Input 2 analogue over-level threshold (2 chars)

u = Input 2 digital under-level threshold (2 chars)

v = Input 2 digital over-level threshold (2 chars)

w = Input 2 under-level timeout period (4 chars)

x = Input 2 over-level timeout period (4 chars)

y = Input 2 phase timeout period (4 chars)

z = Input 2 alarm conguration options (4 chars)

level thresholds = 0–25 where: 0 = 0dBFS, 1 = -3dBFS, 2

= -6dBFS etc

timeouts = 0–1000 in 0.2s units where: 0 = o, 1000 = 200secs

alarm options:

bit0 = alarm autoclear,

bit1 = stereo,

bit2 = front panel alarm=high level

bit3 = front panel alarm=input clip

bit2 & bit3 clear = front panel alarm=low level

bit4 = channels linked (valid for Input 1 cong only)

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS

& RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Command Description Response

OPW:klmnopqrstuvwxyz Option write ACK: or ERR:

Parameters as per OPR: above

SER: Serial number request where: SER:z

z = serial number (6 chars)

SRQ: Status request where: STA:stuvwxyz

s = channels (1 char) where:

1 = 1 stereo channel

2 = 2 stereo channels

t = selected input (1 char) where:

0 = input 1

1 = input 2

2 = mono mix

u = front panel lock (1 char) where:

0 = unlocked

1 = locked

v = input 1 gain (1 char) where:

0 = 0dB

1 = +6dB

2 = +12dB

3 = +18dB

w = input 1 meter type (1 char) where:

0 = Dual PPM/standard VU

1 = BBC/EBU PPM

2 = Nordic PPM

3 = AES Digital PPM

4 = DIN PPM

5 = Standard VU

6 = Extended VU

7 = German PPM

8 = AES Digital PPM (SMPTE RP.0155)

x = input 2 gain where parameters as per v

y = input 2 meter type where parameters as per w

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS & RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Command Description Response

SRQ (continued): z = status (4 chars) where:

bit 4 = Input 1 low-level alarm active

bit 5 = Input 1 high-level alarm active

bit 6 = Input 1 phase alarm active

bit 7 = Input 1 AES lock

bit 8 = Input 2 low-level alarm active

bit 9 = Input 2 high-level alarm active

bit 10 = Input 2 phase alarm active

bit 11 = Input 2 AES lock

UID: **Unit id request where: UID:RM-Mxyz

x = number of stereo meter displays

y = enclosure type: F = freestanding, R = rack mount

z = meter segment display size: 53 or 106

VER: **Version number request where: VER:Vn.nn

n.nn = rmware version (bootloader returns BOOT:Vn.nn)

** = these commands also supported in Bootloader mode.

Error Messages

General error messages:

ERR:01 - returned if command not found

ERR:02 - returned if invalid command or missing/invalid parameter

ERR:04 - returned if parameter out of range

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS & RESPONSES PROTOCOL

SERIAL INTERFACE COMMANDS

& RESPONSES PROTOCOL

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

SCI REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE

Reference Monitor Meters SCi Remote Control Software

Sonifex SCi software is free of charge software available to control the Reference Monitor Meters range, as well as other Sonifex products, using RS232 connections.

Download the Latest SCi Software

This is located on the Sonifex website in the Software Downloads section: http://www.sonifex.co.uk/technical/software/index.shtml Download and install the software.

Connecting the RS232 Serial Port

Simply connect your Reference Monitor to your computer using a serial cable and you are ready for operation.

Using SCI for the First Time

Once you have connected the serial cable, double click the SCi icon. You will be presented with the SCi Launcher:

Click on the large ‘Plus’ button and the software will try and communicate with the relevant serial ports to ‘discover’ your connected devices.

Your attached Reference Monitor Meters unit(s) will be shown in the list. If they are not listed, check the cable(s) between the unit and your PC. Close the device dialog by clicking on the cross in the top right corner.

Fig 3-2: SCi Device Discovery Panel

The Reference Monitor now appears in the SCi Launcher.

Fig 3-1: SCi Launcher

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

SCI REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE

Loaded Launcher

Click on this to connect to the selected Reference Monitor Meters. The Main screens will be displayed.

SCi for Reference Monitor Meters – Main Status Screen

The graphical interface allows you to monitor and control the Reference Monitor Meters remotely. The main Status panel shows the controls and status indicators that are relevant to the connected model. For RM-M1-53 and RM-M2-53 models, the Status screen shows selected Input Gain, Meter Types and AES Lock and Alarm status for each audio input.

Fig 3-4: SCi Main Status Screen for RM-M2-53

For the RM-M1-106 the Status screen also shows controls for Input Select and a Front Panel Lock control to prevent accidental or un-authorised changes to the selected monitoring channel. Please note that SCi is continuously updated so the images may appear dierently to those shown.

Fig 3-3: SCi Launcher Loaded

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Fig 3-5: SCi Main Status Screen for RM-M1-106

The Clear Alarm button resets any active alarm on the corresponding input. Its action is similar to asserting the Alarm Reset on the rear panel mounted Remote port.

SCi for Reference Monitor Meters – Options Screen

This Options Screen allows the alarm options to be easily edited.

Fig 3-6: SCi Options Screen

SCI REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

The alarm settings for each available audio input can be individually congured. Figure 3-6 shows the default values for each setting. The Low Level and High Level Alarm Thresholds have a separate setting for Analogue and Digital inputs and the appropriate level is automatically used when monitoring for alarm conditions. The Level Timeout values dene the period during which the audio input level must remain either below the Threshold for a Low Level Alarm, or above the Threshold for a High Level Alarm.

The Phase Alarm condition is preset and will activate when the phase dierence between left and right channels of the corresponding audio input, remains above 90 degrees for longer than the Phase Alarm Timeout.

Each of the alarms can be disabled by selecting 0 seconds for the corresponding Timeout value.

With the Stereo Alarm option set, an alarm condition is activated only when both the left and right channels of the corresponding audio input satisfy the alarm conditions. With the Mono option set, either channel can activate the alarm.

The Auto Clearing option allows alarms to be automatically cleared when the alarm condition no longer exists. With this option not set, the alarm must be cleared manually, either by selecting the Clear Alarm button on the Status screen in SCi, or by activating the corresponding Alarm Reset input on the Remote Port.

The Front Panel Alarm Indication setting species which alarm condition will activate the Level Alarm LED. The Low Level Alarm and High Level Alarm options illuminate the Level Alarm LED when the corresponding alarm activates. With the Input Clip option selected, the Level Alarm LED will illuminate when the input signal level has either exceeded or come within 0.5dB of the maximum acceptable input level.

Once the required Options have been set, pressing the Save button will send the changes to the Reference Monitor Meters unit where they are saved in non-volatile memory. The Cancel/Reload button displays the current settings and aborts any changes.

SCI REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Firmware Updates

The Misc screen shows the Update Firmware option.

Fig 3-7: SCi Misc Screen

Occasionally, it may be necessary to upgrade the rmware on the Reference Monitor Meters to add new functionality and x software bugs. New rmware updates will be made available from time to time on the Sonifex website. Visit www.sonifex.co.uk for details.

It is vital that neither the serial connection nor mains power to the unit should be interrupted during the update process. If this should happen, or the update is unsuccessful for any other reason, the Reference Monitor Meters will not operate normally and will instead enter a protected Bootloader mode. In this mode, the unit has a limited command set and will await a successful retry of the update process.

Should the rmware update appear to succeed but the unit not behave as expected, the update may be repeated either via the DWN: command (if the unit will respond to commands) or, in extreme circumstances, by setting DIPSwitch number 8 in the “Settings 1” Bank to ON. This action will force the Bootloader to run and allow initiation of an update under any circumstances. After completion of the update, the switch should be returned to the OFF position.

To upgrade the rmware on the connected Reference Monitor Meters, click on the Update Firmware button and select the required rmware le. The new rmware is transferred, and then the current rmware is erased before programming the update.

SCI REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Technical Specication

Inputs

Audio Inputs: 1 x stereo analogue or AES/EBU digital (auto-selecting) (RM-M1F53 & RM-M1R53) 2 x stereo analogue or AES/EBU digital (auto-selecting) (RM-M2F53, RM-M2R53, RM-M1F106 & RM-M1R106) 4 x stereo analogue or AES/EBU digital (auto-selecting) (RM-M4R53 & RM-M2R106)

Max. Level: +18dBu (analogue)/0dBFS (0dB Input Gain)

CMRR: >60dB typical

Input Impedance: 20kΩ (analogue) 110Ω (digital with termination switchable via DIPSwitch)

AES/EBU 32 to 192kHz, converted internally to 48kHz Sample Rate:

Input Gain: 0, +6, +12 or +18dB digital gain (switchable via DIPSwitch)

Level Metering

Number: 2 x 53 segment tri-colour LED bar graphs (RM-M1F53 & RM-M1R53) 4 x 53 segment tri-colour LED bar graphs (RM-M2F53 & RM-M2R53) 8 x 53 segment tri-colour LED bar graphs (RM-M4R53) 2 x 106 segment tri-colour LED bar graphs (RM-M1F106 & RM-M1R106) 4 x 106 segment tri-colour LED bar graphs (RM-M2R106)

Characteristic: Selectable by DIPSwitch from: Dual BBC PPM + Standard VU BBC PPM IEC60268-10 11a EBU PPM IEC60268-10 11b Nordic PPM IEC60268-10 1 AES/EBU Digital PPM IEC60268-18 DIN PPM DIN45406 Standard VU IEC60268-17 Extended VU IEC60268-17 German PPM

Ballistics: According to selected characteristic

Line-Up Level: 0dBFS = +18dBu (except German PPM: 0dBFS = +15dBu)

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Phase Metering

Type: 5-segment, indication at 0˚, 45˚, 90˚, 135˚ and 180˚, 1 per stereo meter

Remote Control

Serial: RS232, 19200 baud, 3-wire connection

Alarm Outputs: (1-4 single units, 1-8 twin units) Audio input 1 under-level/fail (with latching capability) Audio input 1 over-level (with latching capability) Audio input 1 sustained phase error above 90˚ (with latching capability) AES/EBU input 1 lock (non-latching) Audio input 2 under-level/fail (with latching capability) Audio input 2 over-level (with latching capability) Audio input 2 sustained phase error above 90˚ (with latching capability) AES/EBU input 2 lock (non-latching) Open-collector outputs rated 30V, 50mA maximum

Control Inputs: (1 single input units, 2 twin input units)

1. Input 1 Alarm reset

2. Input 2 Alarm reset Pull-to-ground to activate inputs

Status Indicators

AES Lock: Indicates lock achieved on corresponding digital input

Level Alarm: Indicates audio under-level, over-level or input clip on corresponding audio input (dependent on setting)

Connectors

Audio Inputs: (All balanced, but may be wired unbalanced) 2 x XLR 3-pin female (RM-M1F53 & RM-M1R53) 4 x XLR 3-pin female (RM-M2F53, RM-M2R53, RM-M1F106 & RM-M1R106) 8 x XLR 3-pin female (RM-M4R53 & RM-M2R106)

RS232 Serial: D-sub 9-pin female

Remote I/O: D-sub 15-pin female

Mains Input: Filtered 3-pin IEC male, continuously rated 85 – 264VAC, 47 – 63Hz, fused 1A, 30W peak, 15W average

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

DIPSwitch Settings 1

SW1 Digital Input 1 Termination Input 1 110Ω ON Un-terminated OFF

SW2 Digital Input 2 Termination Input 2 110Ω ON Un-terminated OFF

SW3 Input 1 Gain Matrix

SW4 Input 1 Gain Matrix

SW5 Input 2 Gain Matrix

SW6 Input 2 Gain Matrix

SW7 Reserved

SW8 Firmware Update Force Bootload ON Normal Operation OFF

DIPSwitch Settings 2

SW1 Input 1 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW2 Input 1 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW3 Input 1 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW4 Input 1 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW5 Input 2 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW6 Input 2 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW7 Input 2 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

SW8 Input 2 Meter Ballistics & Scaling Matrix

Equipment Type

RM-M1F53 1 stereo 53 segment meter, free-standing RM-M1R53 1 stereo 53 segment meter, rack-mount RM-M2F53 2 stereo 53 segment meters, free-standing RM-M2R53 2 stereo 53 segment meters, rack-mount RM-M4R53 4 stereo 53 segment meters, rack-mount RM-M1F106 1 stereo 106 segment meter, free-standing RM-M1R106 1 stereo 106 segment meter, rack-mount RM-M2R106 2 stereo 106 segment meters, rack-mount

Physical Specication

Dimensions RM-M1F53, RM-M2F53 & RM-M1F106 (Raw): 21.8cm (W) x 14.8cm (D) x 4.4cm (H)

8.6” (W) x 5.8” (D) x 1.73” (H)

Dimensions RM-M1F53, RM-M2F53 & RM-M1F106 (Boxed): 59cm (W) x 20.5cm (D) x 6cm (H) 21” (W) x 8” (D) x 2.4” (H)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

Dimensions RM-M1R53, RM-M2R53, RM-M4R53, RM-M1R106 & RM-M2R106 (Raw): 48cm (W) x 14.8cm (D) x 4.4cm (H) 19” (W) x 5.8” (D) x 1.73” (H)

Dimensions RM-M1R53, RM-M2R53, RM-M4R53, RM-M1R106 & RM-M2R106 (Boxed): 59cm (W) x 20.5cm (D) x 6cm (H) 21” (W) x 8” (D) x 2.4” (H)

Weight: RM-M1F53 & RM-M1R53 Nett: 1.3kg Gross: 2.0kg Nett: 2.9lb Gross: 4.4lb

Weight: RM-M2F53 & RM-M1F106 Nett: 1.4kg Gross: 2.1kg Nett: 3.1lb Gross: 4.6lb

Weight: RM-M2R53 & RM-M1R106 Nett: 1.45kg Gross: 2.15kg Nett: 3.2lb Gross: 4.7lb

Weight: RM-M4R53 & RM-M2R106 Nett: 2.8kg Gross: 3.5kg Nett: 6.2lb Gross: 7.7lb

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Reference Monitor Meters User Handbook

NOTES

www.sonifex.co.uk

t:+44 (0)1933 650 700 f:+44 (0)1933 650 726 sales@sonifex.co.uk

Sonifex Reference Monitor Meters, RM-M1F53, RM-M1R53, RM-M2F53, RM-M2R53 User Handbook Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual