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Realtime Rack
User Manual
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Soundcraft Realtime Rack User Manual

Realtime Rack Manual
Software Version 8.6
Manual Version 161114
Technical Support
Table Of Contents
page number to jump directly to that page.
Chapter 1: Introduction ....................................................................... 13
Welcome to Soundcraft Realtime Rack! ............................................................. 13
Realtime Rack Features .................................................................................... 14
Realtime Rack System Overview ........................................................................ 15
UAD Meter ................................................................................................................... 17
UAD Control Panels ....................................................................................................... 17
Documentation Overview .................................................................................. 18
Tip: Click any section or
Chapter 2: Hardware ........................................................................... 19
Hardware Overview ........................................................................................... 19
Front Panel ..................................................................................................... 19
PSU Indicator notes: ..................................................................................................... 20
(4) MADI IN Indicator ................................................................................................... 20
(5) MADI OUT Indicator ................................................................................................ 20
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents2
Rear Panel ...................................................................................................... 21
(8) MADI OUT .............................................................................................................. 23
(9) MADI IN ................................................................................................................. 23
Standalone Behavior ........................................................................................ 24
Chapter 3: System Setup ..................................................................... 25
Overview ......................................................................................................... 25
System Requirements ...................................................................................... 25
System Connections ......................................................................................... 26
Software Installation ........................................................................................ 29
About Firmware Updates ............................................................................................... 29
Device Registration & Authorization ................................................................... 30
Operating System Software Configuration ........................................................... 33
Energy Saver Panel ....................................................................................................... 33
Computer Sleep ............................................................................................................ 33
Display Sleep ............................................................................................................... 33
Wake for network access ................................................................................................ 34
Power Adapter Tab ........................................................................................................ 34
Battery Tab ................................................................................................................... 34
Realtime Rack Software Configuration ............................................................... 35
Sample Rate................................................................................................................. 35
Clock Source ................................................................................................................ 35
MADI Bank................................................................................................................... 35
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents3
Chapter 4: Realtime Rack Application .................................................. 36
Application Overview ........................................................................................ 36
View Screens ................................................................................................................ 36
Global Displays ............................................................................................................. 37
Navigation .................................................................................................................... 37
Keyboard Focus ............................................................................................................ 37
Edit & Safe Modes ........................................................................................................ 37
Offline Configuration ..................................................................................................... 37
Launch ........................................................................................................................ 38
Full Screen Display ....................................................................................................... 38
Hide/Switch.................................................................................................................. 38
Quit ............................................................................................................................. 38
Navigation Overview ......................................................................................... 40
Inserts ......................................................................................................................... 40
Gains ........................................................................................................................... 40
Delay Groups ................................................................................................................ 40
Channel ....................................................................................................................... 40
Snapshots .................................................................................................................... 40
Settings ....................................................................................................................... 40
View Menu ...................................................................................................................42
View Options ................................................................................................................42
Bank Views ...................................................................................................................42
Channel Select Buttons ................................................................................................. 42
Current Bank ................................................................................................................ 43
Bank Size..................................................................................................................... 43
Bank Bar ...................................................................................................................... 43
Bank Bar Navigation...................................................................................................... 43
Bank Concept ............................................................................................................... 44
Input Meters................................................................................................................. 44
Meter Bridge Navigation ................................................................................................ 45
Focus Indication ........................................................................................................... 46
Focus Navigation ......................................................................................................... 46
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents4
Global Screen Elements ................................................................................... 48
View Menu ...................................................................................................................49
View Options ................................................................................................................49
Bank Views ...................................................................................................................49
Quit ............................................................................................................................. 49
Column Placement ........................................................................................................ 49
Input Meters................................................................................................................. 50
Bank Bar ...................................................................................................................... 50
Meter Bridge Navigation ................................................................................................ 50
Current Bank ................................................................................................................ 51
Bank Size..................................................................................................................... 51
Channel Select Buttons ................................................................................................. 51
Bank Bar ...................................................................................................................... 52
Info Bar Placement ....................................................................................................... 53
Info Bar Elements ......................................................................................................... 53
Operating Mode ............................................................................................................ 54
EDIT Mode ................................................................................................................... 54
SAFE Mode .................................................................................................................. 54
Safe Mode Constraints ................................................................................................... 55
Snapshot Display .......................................................................................................... 55
Clock Display ................................................................................................................ 56
Tempo Display .............................................................................................................. 57
Changing tempo values within the tempo dialog ............................................................... 57
Changing tempo values via MIDI ..................................................................................... 58
About external MIDI tap tempo control ............................................................................ 58
Resource Display .......................................................................................................... 59
UAD Resource Loads ..................................................................................................... 59
DSP ............................................................................................................................. 60
Program ....................................................................................................................... 60
Memory ........................................................................................................................ 60
Inserts View .................................................................................................... 61
Bank Size..................................................................................................................... 61
Insert Slots................................................................................................................... 62
Channel Signal Flow ...................................................................................................... 62
State Indication ............................................................................................................ 62
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents5
Option Latch ................................................................................................................ 63
Option Unlatch ............................................................................................................. 63
Timeout Length ............................................................................................................. 63
Modifiers ...................................................................................................................... 63
Modifier Swipe Shortcuts ............................................................................................... 63
Power .......................................................................................................................... 65
Remove ........................................................................................................................ 65
Move ........................................................................................................................... 65
Copy ............................................................................................................................ 66
Paste ........................................................................................................................... 66
Isolate ......................................................................................................................... 67
Gains View ...................................................................................................... 68
Bank View .................................................................................................................... 68
Channel Column ........................................................................................................... 68
Bank Channels ............................................................................................................. 68
I/O Type ....................................................................................................................... 69
Gain Value ....................................................................................................................69
Gain Fader ................................................................................................................... 69
Fader Handle ................................................................................................................ 70
Channel Number & Name .............................................................................................. 70
Link/Unlink .................................................................................................................. 70
Inputs .......................................................................................................................... 72
Outputs........................................................................................................................ 72
Both ............................................................................................................................ 72
Default ........................................................................................................................ 72
Isolate ......................................................................................................................... 72
Delay Groups View ........................................................................................... 73
Bank View .................................................................................................................... 73
Channel Column ........................................................................................................... 73
Bank Channels ............................................................................................................. 73
Upsampled UAD plug-ins ............................................................................................... 74
How Delay Groups work ................................................................................................. 74
When To Use Delay Groups ............................................................................................ 74
System Latency ............................................................................................................ 74
Delay Group Button Selectors ......................................................................................... 75
Compensation Menu ...................................................................................................... 75
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents6
Active Delay Group Display ............................................................................................ 76
Delay Group Buttons ..................................................................................................... 76
Samples Display ........................................................................................................... 76
Output Meter ................................................................................................................ 77
Channel View .................................................................................................. 81
View Mode Elements .....................................................................................................82
Switching View Modes ................................................................................................... 82
Common Elements ........................................................................................................ 82
Channel Name Button .................................................................................................. 83
Channel Name Field ...................................................................................................... 83
Channel Link/Unlink ...................................................................................................... 83
Insert Button Behavior ................................................................................................... 84
Channel Signal Flow ...................................................................................................... 85
Insert Reordering .......................................................................................................... 85
Insert State Indications ................................................................................................. 85
Channel Strip Button ..................................................................................................... 86
Remove Plug-In Shortcut ............................................................................................... 86
General Use ................................................................................................................. 87
Specific Controls ........................................................................................................... 87
Channel Strip View ........................................................................................................ 88
Status Bar .................................................................................................................... 89
Power Button ................................................................................................................ 90
Zoom Slider .................................................................................................................. 90
Presets Defined............................................................................................................. 91
Channel Strip Defined ................................................................................................... 92
PRESETS Tab Columns ................................................................................................. 93
FILE Column ................................................................................................................ 93
PRESETS Column ......................................................................................................... 94
SUB-FOLDER Column ................................................................................................... 94
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents7
CATEGORY Buttons ....................................................................................................... 95
Plug-In Categories ......................................................................................................... 96
Assign Insert ................................................................................................................ 96
Reassign Insert ............................................................................................................. 97
De-assign Insert ............................................................................................................ 97
Snapshots View ............................................................................................... 98
Snapshots Folder Location ............................................................................................. 98
Snapshot Versus System Contents ..................................................................................99
Base Snapshot Workflow .............................................................................................. 100
To Select a Folder: ...................................................................................................... 103
MIDI Bank & Program Change Recall ............................................................................ 105
Save Button ............................................................................................................... 105
Save As Button ........................................................................................................... 106
New Button ................................................................................................................ 106
FOLDER/SNAPSHOT Options ....................................................................................... 106
Rename Button........................................................................................................... 106
Delete Button ............................................................................................................. 107
Move Button ............................................................................................................... 107
Move Shuffle .............................................................................................................. 108
Export All ................................................................................................................... 108
Import All................................................................................................................... 109
Active Snapshot Display .............................................................................................. 110
Primed Snapshot Display ............................................................................................. 110
Recall Snapshot Button ............................................................................................... 110
Up/Down Buttons ........................................................................................................ 110
Plug-In State Buttons .................................................................................................. 111
Navigating with Universe View ...................................................................................... 111
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents8
Settings View ................................................................................................ 112
Settings Tab Names .................................................................................................... 112
Sample Rate Menu...................................................................................................... 113
Clock Source Menu ..................................................................................................... 113
MADI Channels Menu .................................................................................................. 113
Device Buttons ........................................................................................................... 114
Bank Size Menu.......................................................................................................... 114
Column Location Menu ................................................................................................ 115
Info Location Menu ..................................................................................................... 115
Monitors Menu ........................................................................................................... 115
Timeout Length Menu .................................................................................................. 115
MIDI Device Menu ...................................................................................................... 116
MIDI Channel Field ..................................................................................................... 116
MIDI Tap Tempo ......................................................................................................... 116
Hide Button ............................................................................................................... 117
Info Button................................................................................................................. 117
Buy Button ................................................................................................................. 117
Status Column ............................................................................................................ 118
Controls Mode Menu ................................................................................................... 118
Soundcraft Snapshot Recall ............................................................................ 119
Chapter 5: UAD Meter & Control Panel ............................................... 120
Overview ....................................................................................................... 120
Launching the Application .............................................................................. 120
Using the UAD Meter ..................................................................................... 121
UAD Meter Elements ...................................................................................... 121
Averaged Loads ...........................................................................................................122
Individual Loads ......................................................................................................... 122
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents9
UAD Control Panels ....................................................................................... 124
Drop Menu ................................................................................................................. 124
Panel Buttons ............................................................................................................. 124
System Information Panel ............................................................................... 125
Version String ............................................................................................................. 125
Device Status ............................................................................................................. 126
Device Enabled ........................................................................................................... 126
DSP Load ................................................................................................................... 126
Save Detailed System Profile ........................................................................................ 126
Plug-Ins Panel ............................................................................................... 127
Authorized for devices ................................................................................................. 128
Start Demo ................................................................................................................. 128
Demo Active (days remaining) ...................................................................................... 128
Demo Expired ............................................................................................................. 128
Configuration Panel ........................................................................................ 129
DSP Load Limiting Overview ........................................................................................ 129
Limit DSP Load .......................................................................................................... 130
DSP LoadLock ............................................................................................................ 130
Controls Mode ............................................................................................................ 131
Use Host Mode ........................................................................................................... 131
Toggle initial value modifier.......................................................................................... 131
Help & Support Panel .................................................................................... 132
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents10
Chapter 6: Using UAD Powered Plug-Ins ............................................. 133
The UAD Plug-In Window ............................................................................... 133
Adjusting Parameters ..................................................................................... 134
Shortcuts ...................................................................................................... 135
DSP Loading Information ................................................................................ 136
Operating Levels ............................................................................................ 136
Tempo Sync .................................................................................................. 137
Out of range ............................................................................................................... 139
Arrow Keys ................................................................................................................. 139
Text Entry ................................................................................................................... 139
Chapter 7: UA Online Store ............................................................... 141
UA Store Overview ......................................................................................... 141
My.Uaudio .................................................................................................... 142
UAD Authorization Overview ............................................................................ 143
Demo Mode ................................................................................................... 144
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents11
Buying Plug-Ins ............................................................................................. 145
Chapter 8: Specifications .................................................................. 147
Chapter 9: Notices ............................................................................ 149
Products Under Warranty .............................................................................................149
Out-Of-Warranty Products ............................................................................................149
Chapter 10: Technical Support........................................................... 153
Soundcraft Tech Support (UK)...................................................................................... 153
Soundcraft Tech support (USA) .................................................................................... 153
Realtime Rack Software Knowledge Base ...................................................................... 153
Contact Universal Audio Support .................................................................................. 153
Realtime Rack Manual Table Of Contents12

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome to Soundcraft Realtime Rack!

The result of a unique collaboration between live sound mixing experts Soundcraft and renowned plug-in manufacturer, Universal Audio, the Soundcraft Realtime Rack brings industry-standard UAD studio plug-ins to the Soundcraft platform. The Realtime Rack hardware and software delivers tight integration of Soundcraft Vi consoles and UAD Powered Plug-Ins, with (48 kHz) sub-2 millisecond latency and full snapshot store and recall with Soundcraft’s CUE/Snapshot system. Realtime Rack’s robust SHARC-based processors run audio over standard Optical MADI connections and dual-redundant internal power supplies ensure that audio signals keep running, even in the event of a power supply failure. Soundcraft Realtime Rack brings the stability of DSP and the sound quality that Soundcraft and Universal Audio are known for in a scalable, low­latency processing environment.
Combining the intuitive Vistonics operator interface with pristine sound quality and powerful mixing features, the Soundcraft Vi Series is already established as the first­choice live sound mixing console for touring and installed applications worldwide.
And now, the Soundcraft Realtime Rack provides access to Universal Audio’s acclaimed analogue audio processing emulations and award-winning UAD plug-ins. Realtime Rack software gives Vi console operators all the control they need to insert UAD plug-ins on individual channels, auxiliary channels, and master busses — just as easily as real hardware. A comprehensive snapshot system allows total recall of all plug-ins and their settings, while tight network integration with the Vi Series ensures that all settings of the application are stored and recalled with the Vi console.
The UAD Powered Plug-Ins platform offers the world’s most authentic analogue hardware emulations and award-winning audio plug-ins. Powered by Universal Audio’s DSP Accelerator hardware, UAD Powered Plug-Ins deliver rich, analogue sound quality that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with native recording systems.
From rare compressors and equalizers, to vintage reverb processors and tape machines, UAD Powered Plug-Ins inject three-dimensional ‘out-of-the-box’ analogue sound to your mixes.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 13

Realtime Rack Features

Hardware

• Durable 1U Rack enclosure
• 4 SHARC DSPs on-board
• Dual-redundant internal power supplies with failover detection
• Each Realtime Rack unit processes up to 16 channels of a MADI stream (add additional units for 32, 48, or 64 channels)
• Runs a huge library of UAD Powered Plug-Ins & UAD Direct Developer Plug-Ins
• Dual-Thunderbolt host connectivity
• One set of MADI optical I/O (64 channels @ 48 kHz)
• Word Clock I/O (BNC) and input termination
• Sample Rate support from 44.1 kHz to 96 kHz
• Clock Support for the following formats: Internal, MADI, Word Clock

Software

• Purpose-built Realtime Rack application for inserting UAD Powered Plug-Ins
• Networked integration with select Soundcraft Vi consoles – allows full remote snapshot triggering and storing
• Create, store, and recall channel strip presets
• Create, store, and recall snapshots
• Up to eight UAD Powered Plug-Ins per-channel
• Meter bridge always displays signal levels on all channels
• Plug-ins are categorized by type for quick assignments
• Large text and graphics for high visibility in live sound environments
• SAFE Mode ensures destructive changes do not occur during a live scenario
• Edit Mode ensures changes can be made as quickly as possible
• Intuitive drag/drop functionality for copy/paste, navigation, and moving plug-ins between inserts and/or tracks
• Most functions can be navigated and executed without a mouse (via computer keyboard)
• Full screen application minimizes visual clutter
• Delay compensation group channels for maintaining phase alignment (critical for drums)
• Application and Snapshots can be configured without connected hardware for offline setup and/or sharing with other operators

Package Contents

• Realtime Rack hardware unit
• Power/AC Mains cables: (1) USA, (1) Europe
• Set of four rack screw with washers
• Getting Started sheet
• For installation software, visit www.uaudio.com/realtimerack/start
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 14

Realtime Rack System Overview

Realtime Rack has several components that comprise the complete Realtime Rack system. A brief description of each component is provided below, along with a link to complete details about the component.

Soundcraft Vi Series Consoles

Soundcraft Vi Series consoles are digital mixing/processing systems designed for use in a live sound environment.
Realtime Rack is designed for Vi console integration. Vi consoles integrate with Realtime Rack via two simultaneous control protocols:
MADI – Digital audio streams are routed between Vi consoles and the Realtime Rack hardware unit for signal processing via MADI optical I/O (all UAD plug-in signals are processed in the Realtime Rack hardware unit, not in the Vi console). Use the Vi Console’s powerful Insert and patching system to route signals to and from the Vi console via MADI.
Ethernet – Digital control signals, for saving and loading Realtime Rack configuration snapshots, are routed between Vi consoles and the Mac computer running Realtime Rack software via Ethernet.

Realtime Rack Hardware

The Realtime Rack unit is the 1U rack hardware that performs audio signal processing on digital audio streams via MADI. The hardware unit contains four SHARC DSPs that process the UAD Powered Plug-In algorithms. Each unit can process up to 16 MADI streams, and up to four units can be combined to process a total of 64 MADI streams.
The Realtime Rack hardware is configured and controlled by the Realtime Rack software application.
For complete hardware details, see “Chapter 2: Hardware” beginning on page 19.

Realtime Rack Software Application

The Realtime Rack application is the software interface for the Realtime Rack hardware unit. The software configures and controls the hardware unit(s) and UAD Powered Plug-Ins. The application runs on select Mac computers and it interfaces to the Realtime Rack hardware via Thunderbolt.
Note: Although UAD Powered Plug-Ins are operated via the Realtime Rack software, the signal processing is performed on the hardware unit’s SHARC DSP, not the computer’s CPU.
For complete details about the software application, see “Chapter 4: Realtime Rack
Application” beginning on page 36.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 15

UAD Powered Plug-Ins

UAD Powered Plug-Ins are software plug-in titles containing DSP algorithms. UAD plug­ins are loaded and controlled within the Realtime Rack software for signal processing on the four SHARC DSPs in the Realtime Rack hardware. Each UAD plug-in contains a graphical user interface (GUI) and various control parameters that can be manipulated to achieve the desired sonic results.
Typical UAD plug-in interface
UAD Powered Plug-Ins are developed by Universal Audio and also by Direct Developer (3rd-party) partners. A wide range of titles are available that are suitable for nearly every application. The UAD Powered Plug-In titles that are included with Realtime Rack depend on the bundle included with the retail product package:
Core Live – The Core Live bundle includes 15 UAD plug-in titles that were selected as a fundamental base set for live sound applications.
Ultimate Live 2 – The Ultimate Live 2 bundle includes 84 UA-developed titles. Note that Direct Developer titles are not included.
UAD plug-ins that are not included in the retail bundles are optional and purchased separately. Optional UAD plug-ins can be individually evaluated without functional limitations for 14 days in demo mode, and can be purchased anytime at the UA online
store at www.uaudio.com.
For complete details about how UAD Powered Plug-Ins are used within Realtime Rack, see “Chapter 6: Using UAD Powered Plug-Ins” beginning on page 133. For complete details about individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins, see the UAD Plug-Ins Manual which is placed on the startup disk during software installation.
Note: Realtime Rack, like other UAD devices, can only use UAD Powered Plug-Ins which are developed specifically for the UAD DSP accelerator platform. Plug-ins developed for other hosts and platforms (VST, RTAS, AAX, Audio Units, native, etc) cannot be used with the Realtime Rack system.

UAD Meter & Control Panel Software Application

The UAD Meter & Control Panel is used to authorize licensed UAD plug-ins and configure global functionality that pertains to all UAD devices in the same system (the application is used for all UAD products).
The application consists of two components: The UAD Meter and the UAD Control Panels. Complete documentation for the UAD Meter & Control Panel application is in
“Chapter 5: UAD Meter & Control Panel” beginning on page 120.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 16
UAD Meter
The UAD Meter window (shown at right) displays the current DSP, memory, and FireWire status of all active Realtime Rack hardware (including multiple devices).
Note: These meters are also represented within the Realtime Rack application.
UAD Control Panels
The UAD Control Panel window has multiple panels that display, and enable control of, various UAD system, plug-in, and global configuration parameters.
The screenshot at right shows the System Info panel, one of four control panel windows in the UAD Meter & Control Panel application.

UA Online Store

The UA online store at www.uaudio.com is where optional UAD plug-in licenses can be purchased. Promotional coupons are also redeemed here. All UAD device registrations and plug-in authorizations are managed here as well.
For complete details, see “Chapter 7: UA
Online Store” beginning on page 141.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 17

Documentation Overview

Realtime Rack instructions are separated by areas of functionality, as detailed below. Documentation is copied to the computer during software installation (documentation can also be downloaded here).
All manuals are available in PDF format only. PDF files require a free PDF reader application such as Preview (included with Mac OS X) or Adobe Reader.
After software installation, all Realtime Rack documentation can be found on the computer at the following location:
• /Applications/Universal Audio/
Tip: Documentation can also be accessed by clicking the “View Documentation” button in the Help panel within the UAD Meter & Control Panel application.

Realtime Rack Manual

The Realtime Rack Manual (this document) contains complete information about the hardware unit and how to configure and operate the Realtime Rack software. Included are detailed descriptions for all connections, features, and control functions.
This manual also contains details about the UAD Meter & Control Panel application, obtaining optional UAD plug-in licenses at the UA online store, and more.

UAD Plug-Ins Manual

The features and functionality of all individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins is detailed in the UAD Plug-Ins Manual. Refer to that document to learn about the operation, controls, and user interface of each plug-in that is developed by Universal Audio.

Direct Developer Plug-Ins

UAD Powered Plug-Ins includes plug-ins from Direct Developer partners. Documentation for these 3rd-party plug-ins are separate files that are written and provided by the plug-in developers themselves. The filenames for these plug-ins are the same as the plug-in title names.

Soundcraft Vi Series Consoles

Operating instructions for Vi Series consoles is beyond the scope of Realtime Rack documentation. Refer to Soundcraft documentation for all Vi system operating details.

Hyperlinks

Hyperlinks to other pages in the same file and web pages are highlighted in blue text. Click a hyperlink to jump directly to the linked item.
Tip: Use the “back” button in the PDF reader application to return to the previous page after clicking a hyperlink.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 18

Chapter 2: Hardware

Hardware Overview

The Realtime Rack hardware is the 1U rack device that performs audio signal processing on digital audio streams via MADI optical I/O. The hardware unit contains four SHARC DSPs that process the UAD Powered Plug-In algorithms. Each unit can process up to 16 MADI streams, and up to four units can be combined to process a total of 64 MADI streams. Additionally, each unit has dual-redundant internal power supplies and auto­matic failover protection.
Each Realtime Rack hardware unit is configured and controlled by the Realtime Rack software application. The MADI channels being processed by each hardware unit is specified in the Settings tab in the Realtime Rack software.

Front Panel

This section describes the function of all visual indicators and controls on the Realtime Rack front panel. There are five visual-only elements and one (recessed) hardware RE­SET button.
1 2 3 4 5 6
RESET
powered by

(1) HOST Indicator

The HOST indicator displays the status of the rear panel Thunderbolt connection to the host computer system. The indicator is lit when Realtime Rack is connected to, and properly communicating with, the Mac computer that is running Realtime Rack software.
The Realtime Rack software must be properly installed and configured on the host com­puter to enable driver connectivity, and the HOST indicator must be illuminated to use Realtime Rack with all computer and Vi console operations.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 19

(2) PSU Indicators

These indicators display the status of the rear panel dual redundant internal power sup­plies. There is one indicator for each power supply unit (PSU 1 and PSU 2). The color of each indicator displays the status of the PSU as follows:
White – The PSU is operating normally. The PSU is connected to AC power, and the power switch for the PSU (rear panel) is in the ON position.
Red – The PSU is not delivering power. This state is caused by one or more of the follow­ing conditions:
• The PSU is not connected to AC power
• The power switch for the PSU is in the OFF position
• The PSU has malfunctioned
PSU Indicator notes:
• If one internal power supply unit fails, Realtime Rack will continue to process
audio signals.
• It is normal for the PSU indicator to flash red upon power up of the hardware

(3) POWER Indicator

The Soundcraft Realtime Rack logo is lit when the hardware unit is receiving proper op­erating voltages from one or both internal power supply units.

(4 & 5) MADI Indicators

These indicators represent whether or not MADI digital audio signals are present at the rear panel MADI I/O connectors. There is one indicator for MADI input and one for MADI output. The state of each indicator represents the MADI signals as follows:
White (bright) – The audio level of any channel in the MADI stream is above -60 dB.
White (dim) – The MADI stream is detected but no channels are above -60 dB.
Black (off) – No audio signals are present in the MADI stream.
(4) MADI IN Indicator
Indicates the state of digital audio signals at the rear panel MADI input connector.
(5) MADI OUT Indicator
Indicates the state of digital audio signals at the rear panel MADI output connector.

(6) RESET Button

This recessed button executes a hardware reset and initializes the unit. Reset should only be performed if there is an unrecoverable failure and all other troubleshooting tech­niques are exhausted.
Note: Pressing this switch interrupts power to the Realtime Rack hardware unit. It performs the same function as manually turning off the unit with the rear panel PSU switches.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 20

Rear Panel

DESIGNED IN CALIFORNIA • MADE IN CHINA
This section describes the function of all switches and connectors on the Realtime Rack front panel.
1
PSU 1
100V-240V
0.30A 50-60 Hz
PSU 2 100V-240V
0.30A 50-60 Hz
SOUNDCRAFT
REALTIME RACK
2

(1) AC Power Inputs

Connect standard detachable IEC power cables to the dual redundant internal power sup­ply units here.
Each PSU accepts 100VAC – 240VAC, 50-60 Hz. The Realtime Rack hardware unit draws a total maximum of 30 Watts of power.
Note: One PSU and power cable can be used if failover operation is not desired.

(2) Power Switches

Each PSU has its own integrated power switch. AC power is passed to the PSU when the switch is in the in (“I”) position.

Automatic Failover

Realtime Rack’s integrated failover circuitry automatically maintains power to the Real­time Rack hardware. In the event that one of the internal power supplies malfunctions or if power to one of the PSUs is interrupted, Realtime Rack will continue to process audio.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 21
Rear Panel (continued)
7 8 9
3
( )
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
PORT 2
( )
4
1394b 1 1394b 2
5 6
IN
ON
OFF
MADI IN
.

(3) Thunderbolt Ports

Connect a Thunderbolt cable (not included) between one of these ports and the Thunder­bolt port on the Mac host computer that is running the Realtime Rack software applica­tion. The HOST indicator on the front panel is lit when the connection is established.
Either port can be used for the host computer connection (the port numbers are inconse­quential). The other port remains available for other Thunderbolt connections, for exam­ple additional Realtime Rack units or the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter.

(4) Word Clock Out

This BNC connector transmits a standard (1x) word clock when Realtime Rack is set to use its internal clock. The clock rate sent by this port matches the current system sam­ple rate, as specified in the Hardware tab within the Realtime Rack software application.
When Realtime Rack is set to use external word clock as its clock, Realtime Rack is a word clock slave. If the incoming external word clock is within ±0.5% of a supported sample rate (44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz), Word Clock Out will mirror Word Clock In with a slight phase delay of about 40 nanoseconds.

(5) Word Clock In

Realtime Rack’s internal clock can be synchronized (slaved) to an external master word clock. This is accomplished by setting Realtime Rack’s clock source to Word Clock in the Hardware tab within the Realtime Rack software’s Settings view, connecting the external word clock’s BNC connector to Realtime Rack’s word clock input, and setting the exter­nal device to transmit word clock. If Realtime Rack is the last device in the clock chain, the Termination switch (6) should be engaged.
Note: Realtime Rack can be synchronized to an external “1x” clock signal only. Superclock, overclocking, and subclocking are not supported.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 22

(6) Word Clock Termination Switch

This pushbutton switch provides internal 75-ohm word clock input signal termination when required. Word clock termination is active when the switch is engaged (depressed).
Realtime Rack’s termination switch should only be engaged when Realtime Rack is set to sync to external word clock and it is the last device at the receiving end of a word clock cable. For example, if Realtime Rack is the last “slave” unit at the end of a clock chain (when Realtime Rack’s word clock out port is not used), termination should be active.

(7) 1394b Ports

The 1394b ports are for development and manufacturing purposes only. The have no functionality within the Realtime Rack system.
Important: Do not attach any devices to the 1394b ports, and do not connect the
FireWire ports to a host computer.

(8 & 9) MADI I/O Ports

The MADI I/O ports are used for digital audio interconnections between the Realtime Rack hardware unit and the Soundcraft Vi-series consoles. Dual Optical SC-Plug (ISO/ IEC 9314-3) connectors are provided.
(8) MADI OUT
Connect this port to the MADI optical input on the Soundcraft Vi console.
(9) MADI IN
Connect this port to the MADI optical output on the Soundcraft Vi console.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 23

Standalone Behavior

Realtime Rack supports limited standalone functionality in the event that the Thunder­bolt connection to the Mac host computer is lost, or if the Realtime Rack hardware unit is power cycled and no host computer is found upon re-powering the hardware.
Thunderbolt connection lost – In the event that the Thunderbolt cable is removed at one or both ends, or if the Mac host computer is otherwise no longer detected, Realtime Rack will continue to process audio in the same state as when the connection was lost, includ­ing UAD plug-in processing. If/when the host connection is reestablished, the Realtime Rack software will be updated to reflect the current state of the hardware, and software control is resumed.
Important: Reestablishing the Thunderbolt host-to-hardware connection will cause
a temporary mute of the audio streams as channels and plug-ins are re-allocated. In the event of a mid-show failure, wait until it is acceptable to hear a mute in the audio path (e.g., not in the middle of a song).
Power cycled, no host found – In the event that power to the Realtime Rack hardware unit is completely interrupted then reestablished and/or the unit is manually power cy­cled or reset, and the host computer cannot be detected after re-powering the hardware, Realtime Rack will function in “all MADI inputs to all MADI outputs” mode without UAD plug-in processing. This ensures that audio can still be routed by the Vi console, even if the Realtime Rack software connection cannot be established.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 2: Hardware 24

Chapter 3: System Setup

Overview

Realtime Rack system setup requires these primary procedures, all of which are detailed in this chapter:
• System connections (device wiring)
• Realtime Rack software installation
• Hardware device registration and UAD plug-in authorization
• Computer operating system software configuration
• Realtime Rack software configuration

System Requirements

• Realtime Rack hardware unit
• Apple Mac computer with available Thunderbolt 1 or 2 port
• macOS 10.11 El Capitan or 10.12 Sierra
• 4 gigabytes available disk space
• Internet connection to download software and authorize UAD plug-ins
• Apple Thunderbolt cable for each Realtime Rack unit (not included)
• (2) single MADI Optical SC cables or (1) Duplex MADI optical SC cable
for each Realtime Rack unit (not included)
• Cat 5 Ethernet cable (not included)
• Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (not included)
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 25

System Connections

Interconnect the Realtime Rack hardware unit, the Realtime Rack software host computer, and the Soundcraft Vi console using the illustrations in this section.

About Realtime Rack system connections

• Connect Realtime Rack to the host computer via Thunderbolt only. Do not connect
to the host computer via 1394b ports.
• Although the Thunderbolt ports are numbered, the numbers are inconsequential
and either port can be used.
• If available, the host computer’s built-in Ethernet port can be used to connect to
the Soundcraft Vi console instead of via the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (Apple part number MD463LL/A).
• Alternately, the Apple USB Ethernet Adapter (Apple part number MC704LL/A) can
be used at the computer for the Ethernet connection (instead of the Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter).
• The MADI channels to be processed by Realtime Rack are specified in the
Hardware panel of the Settings page within the Realtime Rack software application.
• When synchronizing to external Word Clock, the first unit (MADI channels 1 – 16)
must receive the Word Clock, then pass the clock to the second unit and so on (via daisy-chaining), for up to four units.

About Vi Console HiQNet (Ethernet) connections

• Vi 1 consoles – The HiQnet port is
on the rear of the control surface, adjacent to the rear USB sockets (as shown at right).
Important: The HiQnet port on early Vi
1 consoles (serial numbers lower than
30210956) is only able to drive short cable lengths, maximum recommended length 1 meter (3 feet). Therefore use a network switch positioned close to the rear of the console to extend the cable length if required.
• Vi 2, 4, and 6 consoles – The
HiQnet port is located on the rear of the Control Surface, adjacent to the MIDI ports (as shown at right). The port is capable of driving standard Ethernet distances of up to 100 meters.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 26

Single Unit Wiring

The diagram below illustrates connections for one Realtime Rack unit for up to 16 channels of UAD plug-in processing.
Cables Required (not included):
• One Thunderbolt cable between Realtime Rack and computer for software control
• Two MADI optical cables (or a single duplex cable) between Realtime Rack and Vi
console for digital audio
• One Cat 5 Ethernet cable between host Mac and Vi console for snapshot control
• One Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (Apple part number
MD463LL/A) for Ethernet
Single Unit
Wiring
Soundcraft Vi
Console Surface
Soundcraft Vi
MADI Ports
Rear Panel
HiQnet™
Ethernet
Port
MADI Optical SC
Thunderbolt
( )
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
( )
PORT 2
Realtime Rack Unit
Ethernet
Adapter
Ethernet
System interconnections for a single Realtime Rack setup
Thunderbolt Mac running
Realtime Rack software
MADI IN
Thunderbolt
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 27

Multi-Unit Wiring

Soundcraft Vi
MADI Ports
MADI Optical SC
Ethernet
Thunderbolt
Soundcraft Vi
Console Surface
Rear Panel
Realtime Rack Unit
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
PORT 1
( )
PORT 2
( )
MADI IN
Thunderbolt Mac running
Realtime Rack software
Thunderbolt
Ethernet
Adapter
HiQnet™
Ethernet
Port
Single Unit
Wiring
The diagram below illustrates connections for 2, 3, or 4 Realtime Rack units for up to 64 channels of UAD plug-in processing (16 MADI channels for each Realtime Rack unit).
Important: Multi-unit wiring in this section is newer than (and differs from) the
"Getting Started" sheet that is included inside the retail box with early units.
Cables Required (not included):
• One Thunderbolt cable between Realtime Rack and computer for software control
• One Thunderbolt cable for each additional Realtime Rack for unit interlink
• One MADI optical cable between Vi console and the first Realtime Rack and for
the digital audio send
• One MADI optical cable between the last Realtime Rack and Vi console for digital
audio return
• One MADI optical cable for each additional Realtime Rack for unit interlink
Note: Duplex cables are not applicable with multi-unit configurations.
• One Cat 5 Ethernet cable between host Mac and Vi console for snapshot control
• One Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (Apple part number
MD463LL/A) for Ethernet
Multi-Unit
Wiring
HiQnet™
Ethernet
Vi Surface
Rear Panel
Port
MADI Optical SC
( )
( )
PORT 2
Ethernet
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
( )
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
( )
PORT 2
1394b 1 1394b 2
MADI IN
1394b 1 1394b 2
MADI IN
( )
( )
PORT 2
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
( )
( )
PORT 2
PORT 1
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
Vi MADI Ports
System interconnections for a multi-unit Realtime Rack setup
1394b 1 1394b 2
1394b 1 1394b 2
MADI IN
MADI IN
Thunderbolt
Thunderbolt Mac running
Realtime Rack software
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 28

Software Installation

Complete Realtime Rack software installation consists of two main steps:
• Realtime Rack software installation
• Device registration and UAD plug-in authorization

Preparation

Close all open files and applications before starting the software installation procedure. The installer requires a restart after installation.
If you are updating to a newer version of Realtime Rack software or installing additional Realtime Rack hardware units, it is not necessary to remove the previous Realtime Rack software or hardware from the system before software installation.

Software Installation Procedure

To install the Realtime Rack software and UAD plug-ins:
1. Verify the Realtime Rack hardware unit is powered and connected to
the host computer via Thunderbolt.
2. Download the Realtime Rack software installer from:
www.uaudio.com/realtimerack/start
3. Open the downloaded installer application. The installer will guide you.
Note: If prompted to update the firmware, see "About Firmware Updates" below.
4. Restart the computer when prompted. Software installation is complete.
5. Proceed to Device Registration & Authorization on page 30.
About Firmware Updates
• Firmware updates for the Realtime Rack hardware may be included within the
software to enhance system functionality. The Realtime Rack software prompts for firmware updates automatically (if available). For optimum results, always update the firmware by clicking "OK" if prompted by the software.
• After "OK" is clicked and the firmware is installed, a notification appears. After
the notification, power off the Realtime Rack hardware. The first time power is reapplied, the hardware will take an extra 20–30 seconds to initialize, after which the firmware update process is complete.
Important: Do not interrupt system power during the firmware update routine.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 29

Device Registration & Authorization

The Realtime Rack hardware unit must be registered and authorized at my.uaudio.com to unlock UAD plug-ins that are bundled with the product. Registration only needs to be completed once. However, authorization must be completed each time the Realtime Rack software is updated.

About Registration

Realtime Rack device registration is triggered automatically as part of the initial authorization process. The first time authorization is initiated, the default web browser launches and connects to the UA store. Follow the instructions on the web pages to create an account, register the hardware, claim bundled UAD plug-ins, and authorize the system.

About Authorization

The Realtime Rack hardware stores its authorization and UAD plug-in licenses in the device itself, so the unit can be connected to a different computer without repeating the authorization process. UAD plug-ins that were not bundled with the product can be evaluated without functional restriction during a Demo Mode that expires after 14 days.

Authorization Procedure

Before proceeding, confirm that the Realtime Rack software is has already been installed and the Realtime Rack hardware is powered and connected to the computer via Thunderbolt (the hardware and software systems must be communicating properly).
Important: The following procedure requires an Internet connection to the host
computer. To authorize a system that is not connected to the Internet, see the
Offline Authorization Procedure on page 31.
To authorize Realtime Rack and UAD plug-ins:
1. Launch the UAD Meter & Control Panel. To open the application, click
its icon (shown at right) in the Mac OS X Dock.
2. Open the Plug-Ins panel within the UAD Meter & Control Panel
application. To access the panel, click the blue UAD-2 button in the UAD Meter window.
Realtime Rack Manual Chapter 3: System Setup 30
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