Studio Technologies 760-03 User Manual V.4.15

for Surround
Model 760-03 Central Controller and
Model 77 Control Console
User Guide
Issue 3, April 2015
This User Guide is applicable for systems consisting of:
software version 4.40 and higher and FPGA version 4.15 and higher;
Model 77: serial number M77-00151 and later with software version 4.40 and higher
with
© 2015 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
www.studio-tech.com
50247-0415, Issue 3
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for Surround

Table of Contents

Revision History ............................................................ 4
Introduction ................................................................... 5
Installation .................................................................... 9
Configuration ................................................................17
Operation ...................................................................... 39
Technical Notes ............................................................46
Specifications ...............................................................50
Appendix A—Connection Pin-Out Charts ....................52
Appendix B—Sync Input Sources ................................54
Appendix C—Downmix Formulas .................................55
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Revision History

Issue 3, April 2015:
1. Revised specifications to reflect final audio performance measurements.
Issue 2, January 2015:
1. Text clarifications.
2. Reflects final product nomenclature (Model 760-03/Model 77).
Issue 1,
1. Initial release (as Model 76DA-110/Model 77).
April 2014:
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Introduction

What This User Guide Covers
This User Guide is designed to assist you when installing and using the Model 760-03 Central Controller and one or more associated Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles.
Overview
As creating and distributing multi-channel surround (5.1) and stereo audio material has become a day-to-day reality, the abil­ity to simply and effectively monitor these sources is imperative for recording, post­production, and broadcast facilities. And with audio-with-picture applications becom­ing so prevalent, additional monitoring chal­lenges have arisen. Studio Technologies has addressed these needs with the Studio­Comm for Surround Model 760-03 Central Controller and the Model 77 and Model 71 Control Consoles. With digital audio inputs, digital and analog monitor outputs, support for multiple user control surfaces, and an extensive set of operating resources it’s a simple task to integrate a monitoring system into virtually any facility. The carefully se­lected group of features, including surround and stereo inputs, configurable input-signal time delay, multiple pre- and post-fader out­puts, configurable downmix and mute/solo functions, and bass management, along with a multi-format sync input, make the system powerful yet simple to operate. And by using the best of contemporary technol­ogy, as well as following rigorous design practices, the system’s audio quality is excellent.
A StudioComm for Surround system starts with the Model 77 Control Console. It’s the system’s “command center” and is designed
to reside at a user’s location, allowing fin­gertip selection of all monitoring functions. Numerous LED indicators provide com­plete status information. A 4-digit numeric display indicates the post-fader monitor output level in real time. A major strength of the Model 77 is its ability to configure, under software control, many important operating parameters. Intended for sec­ondary monitoring locations, the Model 71 Control Console is a compact user control surface. It provides three of the most basic functions: a rotary level control, dim on/off button, and reference level on/off button.
Most installations will use only one Model 77 Control Console. However, up to three additional Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles can also be connected. This provides multiple users with full control over a facility’s monitor system. And to make installation simple, the Model 760-03 provides power for all connected Model 77 or Model 71 units.
The core of this StudioComm for Surround system is the Model 760-03 Central Con­troller. The one-rack-space unit contains circuitry that supports balanced digital audio inputs, balanced digital and analog monitor outputs, digital audio and control processing, and interfacing for the user control surface(s). The Model 760-03 pro­vides two surround (5.1) and three stereo digital audio inputs. These balanced digital inputs are AES3-compliant; sources of this type are ubiquitous in many post-produc­tion and audio facility environments. The inputs allow a sample rate of up to 192 kHz and a bit depth of up to 24 to be di­rectly supported. Circuitry associated with one of the stereo inputs provides sample rate conversion (SRC) capability, allowing a wide range of digital audio sources to be monitored. Up to 340 milliseconds of input
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delay can be selected to compensate for processing delays in an associated video path. For flexibility, two delay values can be configured, allowing real-time selection as desired. A number of different signals can serve as the Model 760-03’s digital audio timing reference. For synchronization with a master timing reference a dedicated source of word clock, DARS (AES11), bi-level video, or tri-level video can be connected. Alternately, the L/R connection of the ac­tively selected surround or stereo input source can serve as the timing reference.
A range of digital and analog surround (5.1) and stereo monitor outputs are provided. The post-fader surround and stereo digital and analog monitor outputs are intended for connection to monitor loudspeaker systems. The pre-fader surround digital monitor out­put can be used with metering systems that require signals that aren’t impacted by level control or other monitoring functions. The stereo input C direct digital monitor output allows an installation to directly access the
SRC capabilities. The digital monitor out­puts are compatible with equipment that re­quires balanced AES3 digital audio signals with an output impedance of 110 ohms and a signal level of 5 volts peak-to-peak (Vpp).
A sophisticated bass management func­tion is integral to the Model 760-03’s design and can be enabled if desired. It can apply to both the surround and stereo digital and analog post-fader monitor output channels. Note however that the bass management function is only supported at sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz. The overall goal of bass management is very simple: ensure that the entire audio bandwidth of all channels can be accurately monitored. Many loudspeaker systems have inher­ent low-frequency limitations, preventing a true picture of the source material from being presented. To overcome this, the low­frequency energy from the five channels associated with the surround inputs and the two channels associated with the stereo inputs can be separated and routed to the
Figure 1. Model 760-03 Central Controller Front Panel
Control console
status LED
Figure 2. Model 760-03 Central Controller Back Panel
AC mains input
Remote control inputs
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To /from
Models 77 &
71 Control
Consoles
Digital monitor
outputs
Analog monitor
outputs
Sync input
Stereo
input C
Digital surround (5.1) inputs A & B
and digital stereo inputs A & B
Sync status
LED
Mute/ solo
mode
for Surround
Channel mute/ solo
Downmix
Input source
select
Figure 3. Model 77 Control Console Front Panel
subwoofer (SUB) channel of the monitor outputs. Several of the bass management functions can be configured to match the requirements of specific installations.
Great care was taken in designing the sys­tem’s architecture, ensuring that the charac­ter of the audio input signals is preserved. All audio processing, including bass man­agement, is performed in 32-bit logic using a high-speed field-programmable gate array (FPGA) integrated circuit.
The Model 760-03 occupies one space (1U) in a standard 19-inch rack. Digital audio sources are interfaced with the Model 760-03 using one 25-pin female D-subminiature connector and one 3-pin female XLR connector. A BNC connector is used to interface with an external sync source. Digital and analog monitor output signal connections are made using two 25-pin female D-subminiature connectors. One 9-pin female D-subminiature connector is used to connect the Model 760-03 with up to four Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles. A second 9-pin female “D-sub”
Monitor output level display
Post-fader surround monitor output
• Surround/ stereo
• Reference level
• Mute all
• Dim
• Rotary level control
connector is used to interface with remote control signals. AC mains power is con­nected directly to the Model 760-03, with an acceptable range of 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz.
Additional Details
The Model 77 provides five buttons and as­sociated LEDs for selection of the surround and stereo input sources to be monitored. While in most cases only one input source will be monitored at a time, stereo input C can be selected for simultaneous monitoring with one of the two surround or other two stereo inputs. This allows the two selected inputs to be combined (“summed”).
It’s interesting to note that while each of the two surround inputs has an LFE channel associated with it, the “.1” post-fader digital and analog surround monitor outputs are designated as SUB (subwoofer), rather than LFE. This terminology was carefully select­ed to highlight the fact that this output chan­nel may include more than just LFE content. The bass management function, if enabled, will redirect low-frequency energy from the
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main input channels, combining it with the LFE content before routing the sum to the digital and analog subwoofer outputs.
The post-fader surround and stereo digital and analog monitor output levels can be controlled by way of a large, easy-to-use rotary control. The control, actually a digital encoder, allows level selection in precise
0.5-dB steps. The auto mute all function causes the post-fader surround and stereo monitor output channels to automatically mute whenever the output level control reaches maximum attenuation. Using the reference level function, the post-fader sur­round and stereo monitor output levels can be set to a pre-configured value. This is pro­vided for audio-with-picture applications that require a specific monitor output level. The reference level is easily configured by tak­ing an electronic “snapshot” of the desired monitor output level. For user confirmation a 4-digit LED readout can display the level of the post-fader surround and stereo monitor output channels. To match the needs of a facility, it can be configured to display either the attenuation level or the sound pressure level (SPL).
The dim function allows the post-fader sur­round and stereo digital and analog monitor output levels to be reduced by a fixed dB amount. The dim level is configured from among four available values. A mute all function allows the post-fader surround and stereo monitor output channels to be simul­taneously muted. The channel mute/solo section provides post-fader surround and stereo channel monitoring control, allowing a single channel to be muted or monitored. Multiple channels can also be simultane­ously selected for muting or “soloing.”
A special solo mode is also provided, called
channel pop solo, which offers a unique aid when monitoring audio material. Chan
­nel pop solo allows the level of a single post-fader digital and analog monitor out­put channel to be raised while the level of the other channels is reduced. This helps to emphasize the content on one channel without fully muting the others. Broadcast applications can benefit from the channel pop solo mode by allowing, for example, the center channel to be highlighted while still maintaining some level on the other chan­nels. The amount of level increase—the “pop”—as well as the amount of attenua­tion can be configured to meet the needs of specific applications or users.
Two functions allow the input sources to be checked for level or phase inconsistencies. The surround to stereo downmix function is used to create a stereo signal from the se­lected surround (5.1) source. Key operating parameters in the surround to stereo down­mix function can be configured to meet the requirements of an application. This can be especially useful when support for specific international broadcast standards is re­quired. The stereo to mono downmix func­tion allows audio on the left and right input channels to be added (summed) and moni­tored on the center output channel. The two downmix functions can be simultaneously enabled, allowing a surround source to be checked for mono compatibility. The down­mix functions always impact the post-fader surround and stereo monitor outputs. A configuration setting allows the pre-fader surround monitor output to be selected for pre- or post-downmix operation.
For flexibility, the StudioComm for Surround system is designed to easily integrate with equipment such as production intercom systems, on-air or recording tally signals,
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and audio consoles. Two remote-control inputs provide access to the mute all and dim functions. By providing access to these functions, talkback or slate activity from an audio console or other communi­cations system can control the level of the post-fader surround and stereo monitor outputs.

Installation

In this section you will be installing the Model 760-03 Central Controller in an equipment rack. Connections to the digital audio inputs, digital monitor outputs, and analog monitor outputs will be made. A dedicated digital audio timing reference signal can be connected to the sync input. If desired, external equipment will be inter­faced to the remote control inputs. A loca­tion will be selected for the first Model 77 Control Console and it will be connected to the Model 760-03. AC mains power will be connected to the Model 760-03. For advanced applications up to three addi­tional Model 77 or Model 71 Control Console units can be connected to the Model 760-03.
System Components
The main shipping carton contains one each of the following: Model 760-03 Cen­tral Controller, Model 77 Control Console, 9-pin D-sub interconnecting cable, and user guide. Also included in the ship­ping carton is a North-American-standard AC mains cord. Your dealer or distributor should provide an AC mains cord appro­priate for destinations outside of North America. Any additional Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles will be shipped in separate cartons.
Mounting the Model 760-03
The Model 760-03 Central Controller re­quires one space (1U) in a standard 19-inch (48.3 cm) equipment rack. Secure the Model 760-03 into the equipment rack using two mounting screws per side. Select a location that is convenient for making connections to the audio signals as well as interfacing with the first (or only) Model 77 Control Console. A cable is supplied to connect the Model 760-03 to the Model 77. If the needs of a specific installation dictate, an alternate­length interconnecting cable can be fabri­cated and used.
Audio Connections
Audio connections are made by way of three 25-pin female D-subminiature connectors and one 3-pin female XLR connector. All the connectors are located on the Model 760-03’s back panel. Refer to Figure 2 for a detailed view of these connectors.
Audio Inputs
Two surround (5.1) and three stereo digi­tal audio sources can be connected. All sources can be monitored using the pre­and post-fader surround and post-fader stereo monitor output channels. A one-to­one relationship is maintained between the input and output channels, i.e., left input to left monitor output, right input to right moni­tor output, center input to center monitor output, etc. (Of course this won’t be true in the case where the user has enabled one or both of the downmix functions.) Stereo input C is also routed to the stereo input C direct monitor output.
The audio inputs support digital audio sig­nals with a sampling rate of up to 192 kHz and a word length (depth) of up to 24 bits. It’s best if the connected signal sources
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maintain a common sample rate and tim­ing reference. Having all signals “locked” together helps to ensure proper handling by the Model 760-03’s all-digital signal control path.
There is, however, an exception worth not­ing. Circuitry associated with stereo input C has sample rate conversion (SRC) ca­pability, allowing virtually any digital audio signal to be connected. A signal connected to stereo input C can have an independent sample rate and timing reference and still be monitored correctly. Refer to the Techni­cal Notes section of this user guide for a detailed review of the SRC capability.
The Model 760-03’s digital audio inputs are intended for connection with balanced digital audio sources that are compatible with the AES3 standard. This signal type has a nominal impedance of 110 ohms and a nominal signal level of 5 Vpp.
One 25-pin female D-subminiature con­nector (DB-25F) is used to interface with the 16 channels associated with surround input A, surround input B, stereo input A, and stereo input B. Each of the eight physi­cal connections supports two audio chan­nels. Often a wiring assembly prepared for these digital audio inputs would typically be identical to that of a TASCAM®-type (AES59-compliant) input assembly. An as­sembly of this type would have eight 3-pin female XLR connectors on one end and a 25-pin male D-subminiature connector (DB-25M) on the other. Refer to Figure 4 for details on connecting with the 25-pin female D-subminiature connector.
On the Model 760-03 stereo input C uses a 3-pin female XLR connector for interfac­ing with a digital audio signal source. The mating cable should have a 3-pin XLR
Signal Signal Connections Channel High (+) Low (–) Shield
Surround Input A L/R 1 24 12 25
Surround Input A C/LFE 2 10 23 11
Surround Input A LS/RS 3 21 9 22
Stereo Input A 4 7 20 8
Surround Input B L/R 5 18 6 19
Surround Input B C/LFE 6 4 17 5
Surround Input B LS/RS 7 15 3 16
Stereo Input B 8 1 14 2
Notes: 1) All signals transformer-coupled digital audio; balanced AES3 (110 ohms, 5 Vpp) compatible.
2) Connector type on Model 760-03 is 25-pin female D-subminiature (DB-25F). Installer must provide male (DB-25M). Connector uses 4-40 threaded inserts for locking with mating plug.
3) Wiring scheme follows AES59-2012 convention. Standard TASCAM-type wiring harnesses are directly compatible, with the possible exception of 4-40 screw threads being required.
Figure 4. Connections for Surround A, Surround B, Stereo A, and Stereo B Digital Inputs
connector wired such that signal + goes to pin 2, the – signal to pin 3, and shield to pin 1.
Unbalanced AES3 digital audio signals can also be used with the Model 760-03’s inputs if external coupling transformers (“baluns”) are utilized. These impedance­matching (75 ohms to 110 ohms) and level step-up transformer assemblies typically provide a BNC connector on their input and a 3-pin male XLR connector on their output.
Digital Monitor Outputs
The 25-pin female D-subminiature connector labeled Digital Monitor Outputs provides access to the Model 760-03’s 16 channels of digital audio monitor output: pre-fader surround, post-fader surround, post-fader stereo, and stereo input C direct. The pre-fader surround digital monitor output channels are intended
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for connection to metering or monitoring equipment that requires uninterrupted full-level signals.
The post-fader surround digital monitor output channels are intended to connect to a 5.1 loudspeaker system. The post-fader stereo digital monitor output is provided to support a separate set of stereo monitor loudspeakers.
The stereo input C direct digital monitor output is essentially a unity gain copy of the signal connected to stereo input C. However, the signal does pass through the sample rate conversion (SRC) and input delay circuitry. The impact made by these functions will depend on the specific input signal and the Model 760-03’s configura­tion settings.
The digital monitor outputs are balanced AES3 digital audio sources with a nominal impedance of 110 ohms and a nominal lev­el of 5 Vpp. Signals of this type are normal­ly interconnected to destination equipment using shielded twisted-pair cable terminat­ed with 3-pin male XLR connectors.
A cable assembly with a 25-pin male D­sub connector (DB-25M) on one end and the desired connectors on the other end will be used for connecting to the digital monitor outputs. The D-subminiature con
­nector follows the TASCAM-type wiring convention, organizing the 25 pins into eight groups of three pins each; one pin remains unused. Each set of three pins provides an independent interface. In the analog world this would allow eight audio signals to be transported. But with AES3 digital audio signals this allows support for 16 audio channels; eight interfaces each supplying two audio channels.
A wiring assembly prepared for the Model 760-03’s monitor outputs would typically be identical to that of a TASCAM-type output assembly. An assembly of this type would have a 25-pin male D-subminiature connec
­tor (DB-25M) on one end and eight 3-pin male XLR connectors on the other.
For compatibility with balanced AES3 digital audio signals connect the D-sub’s + ter­minal as signal high and the – terminal as signal low. In most applications a 3-pin male XLR connector will be used. In this case the + terminal would go to pin 2 of the XLR, the – terminal to XLR pin 3, and the shield terminal to XLR pin 1. Refer to Figure 5 or Appendix A for the exact connection details. Note that unlike a TASCAM-type assembly, the two threaded fasteners associated with the Model 760-03’s D-sub connectors use 4-40 threads. This complies with the original design standard for D-subminiature connectors.
Signal Signal Connections Channel High (+) Low (–) Shield
Pre-Fader L/R 1 24 12 25
Pre-Fader C/SUB 2 10 23 11
Pre-Fader LS/RS 3 21 9 22
Stereo Input C Direct 4 7 20 8
Post-Fader L/R 5 18 6 19
Post-Fader C/SUB 6 4 17 5
Post-Fader LS/RS 7 15 3 16
Post-Fader
Notes: 1) All signals transformer-coupled digital audio; balanced AES3 (110 ohms, 5 Vpp) compatible.
2) Connector type on Model 760-03 is 25-pin female D-subminiature (DB-25F). Installer must provide male (DB-25M). Connector uses 4-40 threaded inserts for locking with mating plug.
3) Wiring scheme follows AES59-2012 convention. Standard TASCAM-type wiring harnesses are directly compatible, with the possible exception of 4-40 screw threads being required.
Figure 5. Connections for Digital Monitor Outputs
Stereo 8 1 14 2
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Pre-Fader Surround Digital Monitor Output
The pre-fader surround digital monitor output channels are intended to connect to metering, measurement, or other signal monitoring equipment that requires uninterrupted, full-level digital audio signal sources.
Stereo Input C Direct Digital Monitor Output
The stereo input C direct digital monitor output is intended for use in site-specific applications. It provides an uninterrupted, full-level digital audio signal source that is post-SRC and input delay in the signal chain.
Post-Fader Surround Digital Monitor Output
The post-fader surround digital monitor out­put channels are designed for connection to digital inputs on audio amplifiers associated with monitor loudspeakers. Alternately, they could be connected to the inputs of loud­speakers that contain integrated amplifiers with digital audio input capability.
Post-Fader Stereo Digital Monitor Output
The post-fader stereo digital monitor output channels are intended to support a stereo loudspeaker system, either by connecting to the digital input of an amplifier associ
­ated with a set of loudspeakers or directly to a set of amplified speakers that provide digital inputs.
Analog Monitor Outputs
The connector labeled Analog Monitor Outputs provides access to the Model 760-03’s 6-channel (5.1) surround and 2-channel stereo analog monitor outputs.
The surround analog monitor output chan­nels are intended to connect to analog inputs associated with the surround loud­speaker system incorporated in a facility. The stereo analog monitor output allows support for a secondary set of stereo monitor loudspeakers.
The analog monitor output channels are designed for connection to audio amplifiers associated with monitor loudspeakers or to the inputs of loudspeakers that contain integrated amplifiers. The analog monitor outputs are electronically balanced and will perform optimally when driving loads of 2000 (2 k) ohms or greater. In most appli­cations 3-pin male XLR connectors will be used to interface with the inputs on the as­sociated amplifiers or amplified speakers. In this case the + terminal would go to pin 2 of the XLR, the – terminal to XLR pin 3, and the shield terminal to XLR pin 1.
Balanced operation of the analog monitor outputs is the preferred connection method but unbalanced operation does not pose a problem. To connect to an unbalanced load connect the + terminal as signal high, and only the Model 760-03’s shield terminal as the signal low/shield. Leave the – terminal unconnected. For correct unbalanced op
­eration, it is important not to connect – and shield together.
The wiring scheme used by the D-submin­iature connector complies with AES59­2012, as made popular by TASCAM. A wiring assembly prepared for the Model 760-03’s analog monitor outputs is identi
­cal to that of a TASCAM-type output as­sembly. Please refer to Figure 6 for the exact connection details. Again note that unlike a TASCAM-type assembly, the Model 760-03’s D-sub connectors use 4-40 threads.
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Signal Signal Connections Channel High (+) Low (–) Shield
Surround L 1 24 12 25
Surround R 2 10 23 11
Surround C 3 21 9 22
Surround SUB 4 7 20 8
Surround LS 5 18 6 19
Surround RS 6 4 17 5
Stereo L 7 15 3 16
Stereo R 8 1 14 2
Notes: 1) Connector type on Model 760-03 is 25-pin female D-subminiature (DB-25M). Connector uses 4-40 threaded inserts for locking with mating plug.
2) Wiring scheme follows AES59-2012 convention. Standard TASCAM-type wiring harnesses are directly compatible, with the possible exception of 4-40 screw threads being required.
Figure 6. Connections for Analog Monitor Outputs
(DB-25F). Installer must provide male
Sync Input
The Model 760-03 requires a timing refer­ence (sync) signal so that the digital audio input and digital monitor output signals will be handled correctly. A configuration set­ting allows the source of sync to be the L/R input of the currently selected surround or stereo digital audio input. While this is acceptable, audio artifacts (clicks or noise) can occur when switching between inputs. A better method is to connect a dedicated timing reference signal to the Model 760­03’s sync input connector. The connected sync signal must maintain a stable rela­tionship between itself and the digital audio inputs. The actual sync source can be in one of several formats: word clock, DARS (AES11), bi-level video, or tri-level video.
An overview of the various compatible timing reference signals might prove worthwhile. Word clock is a digital signal that is locked in phase and frequency to the sample rate of the associated digital
audio sources. DARS (digital audio refer­ence source) is a timing signal compliant with the AES11 standard. It’s sometimes referred to as “AES3-black.” Technically it is similar to an AES3 signal but is generated specifically as a timing reference signal. Bi-level video sync signals were originally provided to support NTSC and PAL broad­cast applications, although they continue to be used by contemporary equipment. Tri-level sync signals were primarily asso­ciated with facilities that supported high­definition (HD) video equipment, however the importance of this type of sync seems to be waning. Both bi-level and tri-level signals can be found at numerous rate combinations, configured to allow for com­patibility with the various video formats.
With the wide range of allowable sync sources proper Model 760-03 operation should be easy to obtain. Extensive testing has been done using many different sync source types and rates. Interested users can refer to Appendix B of this user guide for details.
The external sync reference source is con­nected to the sync input BNC connector located on the Model 760-03’s back panel. For flexibility this input can be configured to be high-impedance (“floating”) or ter­minated with an impedance of 75 ohms. A sync source that is dedicated for use by the Model 760-03’s sync input will typically have input termination enabled. If the sync signal connected to the Model 760-03 is being connected (“multed”) to other inputs it may be desirable for the termination to be disabled. A general “rule of thumb” is that termination should be applied only at the location of the last physical device using a sync signal.
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Remote Control Inputs
Support is provided for two remote con­trol input functions: remote mute all and remote dim. These functions only impact the post-fader surround and stereo digital and analog monitor outputs. The Model 760-03’s inputs use logic gates, “pulled up” to 3.3 Vdc by way of resistors, which are active whenever they are brought to their logic low state. Inputs of this type are com­monly referred to as GPI inputs. While the input circuitry is protected from over-current and static discharge (ESD), care should be taken to prevent nasty signals from reach­ing them. The inputs are active only when held in the low state; they can’t be config­ured to change state (“latch”) in response to a logic pulse.
A 9-pin female D-subminiature connector is used for the remote control inputs. Re­fer to Figure 7 or Appendix A for the exact connection details. Note that pin 4 (remote common) connects to the Model 760-03’s internal circuit common connection as well as to the Model 760-03’s chassis and mains earth connections. Figure 7 also shows two spare remote control inputs (pins 8 and 9). These are provided for future applications and should remain unconnected.
Connecting the Model 760-03 to the Model 77
A 9-pin female D-subminiature connec­tor, labeled To/From Control Consoles, is provided on the back panel of the Model 760-03 Central Controller. This is used to interface the unit with Model 77 Control Consoles. Refer to Figure 8 or Appendix A for details. A 9-pin female D-sub connec­tor, labeled To/From Central Controller, is provided on the back panel of each Model 77 Control Console. A cable with 9-pin male D-sub (DE-9M) connectors on each end is used to interconnect the Model 760-03 with the Model 77 units. A cable is included in the shipping carton. The cable implements all nine connector pins in a one-to-one manner.
Should an interconnecting cable of a differ­ent length be required there’s no problem for one to be fabricated and used. While it can be wired in a one-to-one fashion supporting all nine pins, only four con­nections are required: pin 1 (data +), pin 6 (data –), pin 4 (DC +), and pin 9 (DC –). The Model 760-03’s connector pin-out scheme was designed to allow creation of an interconnecting cable which uses
Signal Pin Direction
Signal Pin Direction
Data Shield 1 Shield
Remote Mute All 5 Input
Remote Dim 6 Input
Remote Spare 1 8 In
Remote Spare 2 9 Input
Remote Common 4 Common
Note: Connector type on Model 760-03 is 9-pin female D-subminiature (DE-9F). Connector uses 4-40 threaded inserts for locking with mating plug.
Figure 7. Connections for Remote Control Inputs
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Data + (RS-485) 1 To/From Models 77/71
Data – (RS-485) 6 To/From Models 77/71
Data Shield 2 To/From Models 77/71
DC + (12 V) 4 To Models 77/71
DC – (12 V Return) 9 To Models 77/71
DC Power Shield 5 To/From Models 77/71
Note: Connector type on Model 760-03 is 9-pin female D-subminiature (DE-9F). Connector uses 4-40 threaded inserts for locking with mating plug.
Figure 8. Connections between Model 760-03 and Model 77 and Model 71
for Surround
commonly available 2-pair audio cable. This cable, consisting of two twisted pairs each with an individual shield, is typically sleek, flexible, and available in many colors. One pair and shield can be used for the data connections while the other pair and shield can be used for the DC connections. This implementation has the advantages of pro­viding a shield for the data path and a more robust common connection (two conduc­tors including the shield) for the DC power circuit.
A few simple calculations are required to determine the maximum cable length when connecting a Model 760-03 to a Model 77. The differential transmission scheme used by the system’s RS-485 interface makes an interconnection in excess of 1000 feet (>300 meters) easily possible. The limiting factor is typically the ability of the wiring to pass the DC power supplied by the Model 760-03 to a Model 77. The Model 760-03 supplies 12 Vdc with a maximum current of 500 milliamperes (mA).
The Model 77 requires a minimum of 9 Vdc, 100 mA, for correct operation. (The voltage must be measured directly at the Model 77’s 9-pin connector.) So the maximum interconnecting cable length is directly re
­lated to the resistive voltage losses associ­ated with the two DC-carrying conductors. As the Model 760-03 supplies 12 V and the Model 77 requires 9 V minimum, this di­rectly leads to a 3 Vdc maximum drop due to the interconnecting cable. Using Ohm’s law it’s quite easy to determine whether the selected cable will support the desired interconnection length. Calculate the volt­age drop by multiplying the total resistance (in ohms) of the proposed cable by 0.1 (the Model 77’s required current in amperes). Remember to include the resistance in both
the DC + and DC – wires when calculating the voltage drop. If it’s greater than 3 V your cable is too long or the wire gauge is too small.
Additional Control Consoles
Some installations may benefit from the Model 760-03’s ability to be controlled by additional control consoles. At least one Model 77 Control Console must be con­nected to the Model 760-03 Central Con­troller. After this requirement has been met up to three additional Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles can also be connect­ed and to powered by the Model 760-03.
When connecting multiple control consoles to a Model 760-03 all nine pins of each interconnecting cable can be connected in parallel (“multed”). Using this arrangement the data and 12 Vdc power signals be tween all the units will be multed. A custom cable implementation requires just four pins to be connected: pin 1 (data +), pin 6 (data –), pin 4 (DC +), and pin 9 (DC –).
To make installation simple, a “bus” cable assembly can be created using a short length of ribbon cable with one male and multiple 9-pin female D-subminiature insu­lation-displacement connectors attached. Then standard 9-pin cables can link the control consoles with the connectors on the bus cable.
Refer to the previous paragraphs of this user guide where the issues involving Model 760-03 to Model 77 cable length are discussed. Note the required current for a Model 77 is 100 mA while a Model 71 requires only 35 mA. It’s important to review this information prior to creating the interconnection scheme to be used for installing multiple Model 77 units.
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Model 760-03/77 User Guide Issue 3, April 2015 Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 15
for Surround
AC Mains Power
The Model 760-03 operates directly from AC mains power of 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz. Being a “universal input” device, there are no switches to set or jumpers to install to match a location’s mains voltage. The unit uses a 3-pin IEC 320 C14-type inlet con­nector to mate with a detachable mains cord. All units are supplied with a mains cord that has a North-American-standard plug (NEMA 5-15L) on one end and an IEC 320 C13 socket on the other. Units bound for other destinations require that the appro priate cord be used. The wire colors in the mains cord must conform to the internation­ally recognized color code and should be terminated accordingly:
Connection Wire Color Neutral (N) Light Blue Line (L) Brown Protective Earth (E) Green/Yellow
Safety Warning: The Model 760-03 does not contain an AC mains discon nect switch; the AC mains cord plug serves as the disconnection device. Safety considerations require that the plug and associated outlet be easily accessible to allow rapid disconnec­tion of AC mains power should it prove necessary.
As soon as mains power is applied the Model 760-03 will perform a power-up sequence. The two LEDs on the right side of the front panel will individually light in a rapid right-to-left test sequence. Then the LEDs will flash in cadence while the firm ware loads into the Model 760-03’s main logic device. After just a few seconds initial
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system operation will commence and the two LEDs will perform their intended func tions. Once operating data is being inter­changed with the one or more connected Model 77 or Model 71 Control Consoles the control console status LED will also light. The sync status LED will light if a valid sync source has been recognized. The sync status LED will flash if a valid sync source is not recognized.
Also upon application of mains power, all connected Model 77 units will go through
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a power-up sequence, lighting each of its LEDs in succession. Using its 4-digit dis play, each Model 77 will then momentarily display its address, its software version, and the main and logic device software versions of the associated Model 760-03.
All connected Model 71 units will also go through a power-up sequence after mains power is applied to the Model 760-03. Each of the Model 71’s three LEDs will light momentarily. After these LEDs have been lit, the device address will be shown briefly using the dim and reference level LEDs, as shown in Figure 9 in the Configuration section. When this is complete the Model 71 will begin normal operation and its status LED will light if communication is estab­lished with the Model 760-03. If the Model 71’s status LED does not light check to see if there is a device address conflict among all connected control consoles and that all cables are connected properly.
Should an error be detected during the start-up process the two LEDs on the Model 760-03’s front panel will continue to flash in cadence indefinitely. On the Model 77 units a diagnostic code may be displayed. Refer to the Technical Notes section of this user guide for details.
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Issue 3, April 2015 Model 760-03/77 User Guide Page 16 Studio Technologies, Inc.
for Surround
Only after the Model 760-03 and all con­nected Model 77 and Model 71 units have correctly powered up will full system oper­ation begin. It’s possible that audio signals will first be present on the digital monitor outputs. The analog monitor outputs will only become active after a protection inter­val has elapsed. These outputs are muted using electro-mechanical relays that oper­ate under software control.
Configuration
After the physical installation has been completed it’s important that the system’s configuration options be carefully reviewed. In most cases one or more of the operating parameters will need to be revised to meet the needs of the specific installation. Many of the configuration parameters will impact the signal flow in to and out of the Model 760-03 Central Controller. Other param­eters affect how the one or more Model 77 Control Consoles will display status conditions and respond to user commands. Most of the configuration choices will be made using a Model 77 Control Console. However, two configuration choices are available for each of the connected Model 71 Control Consoles.
Configurable Parameters
• Post-Fader Stereo Digital and Analog Monitor Output
• Bass Management
• Mute/Solo Bass Management Mode
• Sync Source
• Sync Input Termination
• Audio-Synced-to-Video Sample Rate
• Reference Level
• Overall Display Mode
• Reference Level in dB SPL
• Auto Reference Level Off
• Dim Level
• Remote Inputs
• Surround to Stereo Downmix Levels
• Pre-Fader Surround Digital Monitor Output Mode
• Channel Pop Solo Mode Offset Levels
• Input Delay A and B
• Post-Fader Digital and Analog Monitor Output Channel Level Offsets
The configuration diagrams, located later in this section, give details on setting each parameter. An overview of each configu rable parameter is provided in the following paragraphs.
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Many StudioComm functions can be con­figured to meet the exact needs of an installation. A Model 77 Control Console is used to display and select the desired system configuration. Here’s an overview of what can be configured:
• Model 77 Device Address (must be unique for each unit!)
• Stereo Input C Sample Rate Converter
Model 760-03/77 User Guide Issue 3, April 2015 Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 17
Entering and Exiting the Configuration Mode
A small button is located on the back of each Model 77 Control Console, adjacent to its 9-pin female D-sub connector. On any connected Model 77 pressing and holding this button for two seconds places both this specific unit and the Model 760-03 into their configuration modes. Other con­nected Model 77 and Model 71 units will
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