RA DIO CON S OLE P RODUCTS ARC-15 Broadcast Console family ARC-15 Arrakis Systems inc.
IN TRODUCTION Thank you from Arrakis Systems inc. Thank you for purchasing this product by Arrakis Systems inc. Our company has provided professional audio equipment to the broadcast, commercial audio, and consumer audio markets for more than 20 years. Our products are sold worldwide and are well known for leading edge technology, quality, and reliability.
S A FETY Safety Instructions 1. Read All Instructions. All safety and operating instructions must be read before operating the product. 2. Retain All Instructions. All safety and operating instructions must be retained for future reference. 3. Heed All Warnings. All warnings on the product and those listed in the operating instructions must be adhered to. 4. Follow All Instructions. All operating and product usage instructions must be followed. 5. Heat.
S A FETY Hazard / Warning Label Identification C AU T I O N RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD - DO NOT OPEN AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR CAUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE ANY COVER OR PANEL. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THE CONSOLE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
W A RRA N TY Warranty This console carries a manufacturer‘s warranty subject to the following guidelines and limitations: A) Except as expressly excluded herein, Arrakis Systems inc. (“Seller”) warrants equipment of its own manufacture against faulty workmanship or the use of defective materials for a period of one (1) year from date of shipment to Buyer.
W A RRA N TY Software End User License Agreement This product contains software licensed from Arrakis Systems inc. and possibly from other software companies. Ownership of this product constitutes acceptance of this agreement. 1- This product contains intellectual property (i.e. software programs) that are licensed for use by the end user customer (hereinafter “End user”).
W A RRA N TY Table of Contents Section One Introduction Section Two Product Description Section Three Operation Instructions Section Four Installation Instructions Section Five DHD-Live for the ARC-15 Section Six Service and Maintenance Section Seven Bluetooth (optional feature) ARRAKIS a d va n c e d r a d io 1.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 2.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Product Description ARC-15 Advanced Radio Console family The ARC-15 is a general purpose console that meets the needs for most On Air Radio & Radio Production studio applications. Channel One is a high performance mic channel while channels 2-5 are selectable as mic or line inputs. Channel 15 is an advanced telephone interface to an external hybrid for Live callers or an Off-line contest call.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Operational features Cue speaker & Volume Lighted switches VU Meters 5 million operation, LED lighted switches REAL VU meters for accurate ballistics tor BOTH the Program & Audition buses for cueing audio and Talkback from a Studio Headphones follows the control room selector switch. The amp drives Hi-Z & 8 ohm headphones Control Room Monitor Selectable between an external (air) input, the Program bus, and the Audition bus.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Key features The ARC-15 console is designed specifically for On air broadcast, Internet radio, and Podcast applications. The 1-5 mic channels support a host and guest talk format. The phone channel is perfect for a live on air talk segment or Off-line contests. The PC sound card channel with logic provides easy access to PC audio files for play or recording.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Software Features Included with an ARC series console (with a USB channel) is a free copy of DHD-Live. This software is the ultimate live assist tool for anyone who wants to put on a dynamic and powerful live show. It includes features that give you unprecedented customization and flexibility. We are confident that you will love this software. This software is intended only for Live Assist.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Technical features The ARC-15 console by Arrakis Systems inc. is the culmination of > 25 years of leadership in the design of analog and digital Radio consoles and > 15 years as the leader in hard disk automation for Radio.
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Electronic specifications SPECIFICATIONS Stereo Line Input Freq ResponseS/NTHDCMRRMax Input- +(-).5dB 20-20kHz -82dB typ, +8dBu in, +8 dBu out .01% typ, +8dBu in, +8 dBu out -75dB typ 1kHz +23dBu, balanced +17dBu unbalanced Mono Mic Input Freq ResponseEINTHDCMRR- +(-).5dB 20-20kHz -115dBu typ, -50dBu in, +8 dBu out .
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION Physical specifications Depth - 15", Height - 6" Width- 33" Arrakis Systems inc. ARC-15 Arrakis Systems inc.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 3.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S Quick Start The ARC-15 console is designed to be very easy to use. The two sets of VU meters follow the Program and Audition buses. The single input source per channel reduces operator errors by eliminating the accidental selection of a wrong A/B source input. The phone system is very easy tp use for off line talking to the caller as well as supporting a Live call in show or Offline contest call application.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S Mono mic level Input Channel (channel 1) Channels one is a dedicated mono microphone channel for the console operator. CHANNEL ON AND OFF To turn a channel on, simply push the red ON switch at the bottom of the fader. When the channel is on, the switch will be lighted. To turn the channel off, simply push the red ON button again. CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC Channels One and Two are assumed to be located in the control room and therefore do not require remote channel on/off logic.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S Mono mic level Input Channel (channel2-5) Channels one is a dedicated mono microphone channel for the console operator. Channels 2-5 are selectable to be either mono mic level or stereo line level channels. The selection is by internal jumpers on the individual channels. The console can therefore support just a single mic for the console operator or a talk studio with a host and three guests.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S Stereo Line Level Input Channels On the ARC-15, channels 6-13 are stereo line level channels. Channel 2-5 are internally selectable as mic or stereo line channels. CHANNEL ON AND OFF To turn a channel on, simply push the red ON switch at the bottom of the fader. When the channel is on, the switch will be lighted. To turn the channel off, simply push the red ON button again.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S The Telephone Input Channel (channel 15) The ARC-15 supports a single phone caller for Live On Air or Off-line (contest caller, etc.) applications on channel 15 of the console. CHANNEL ON AND OFF To turn a channel on, simply push the red ON switch at the bottom of the fader. When the channel is on, the switch will be lighted. To turn the channel off, simply push the red ON button again.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S The Control Room Monitor system The Control Room Monitor system is the main audio monitoring system for the studio. It features an input selector switch and a volume level control. The output of the monitor system is connected to an external audio power amplifier and speakers. The level control on the external amplifier should be set for the maximum sound level desired in the studio.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S The Headphone system The Headphone (earphone) system in the ARC-15 console is provided so that audio can be listened to while the microphone is active and the monitor speakers are muted. The Headphone system receives the same audio feed as the Monitor system but does not mute when the microphone channel is turned on. The Headphone system has a 1/4" headphone jack on the rear of the console.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S The Cue system The cue system is designed for monitoring an audio source without placing it on air. This feature is useful for listening to a network feed before bringing it to air, listening to a CD to be certain it is the correct song, etc. ACTIVATING CUE To activate cue, click on the CUE button on an input source channel. To exit the cue mode, click on the CUE button again.
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S The VU meters The ARC-15 console features a set of vue meters for both of the console mixing buses (Pgm and Aud). This simplifies operation and reduces operator error. Program Meters Audition Meters Arrakis Systems inc. 3.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 4.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Unpacking a) PACKING SLIPS- do you have everything? Check the Packing Slips that come with the shipment to be certain that all packages have been received. b) CHECK FOR DAMAGE Check all packages and equipment for damage IMMEDIATELY upon receipt. If damage is found, contact Arrakis Systems immediately to report the damage. (refer to inside cover of this manual for contact information) c) CAREFULLY GO THROUGH EACH BOX Arrakis inspects every shipment for accuracy.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Before you start a) PHYSICAL SPACE It is important to install the console with sufficient space around it to operate and service the console easily. b) AREA IN FRONT OF THE CONSOLE It is normal to have 8-10" between the front of the console and the front of the table so that a piece of paper may be laid on the table in front of the console. c) SCRIPT OR COPY BOARD Are you going to use a copy bridge that span the top of the console for paper or other objects.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Getting started... a MUST Read ! a) CONSUMER SOURCE EQUIPMENT The ARC-15 console is designed to be used with balanced professional & unbalanced consumer type audio source equipment such as CD players, MDs, DAT machines, cassette machines, etc. Unbalanced consumer equipment is designed to perform well in compact studios where audio cables are short. Balanced audio is required when connecting multiple studios or with long audio cable runs ( > 10 feet).
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Step by Step Instructions IMPORTANT- Follow this STEP by STEP procedure. Each STEP has specific tests to determine if the console installation has been performed correctly to that point. a) STEP 1- POWER SUPPLY INSTALLATION The console power supply should be plugged into a surge protected outlet. First plug the power supply into the back of the console and then plug the power supply into the AC outlet. TEST- The console should now be on.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Monitor amp & Speakers STEP 4- MONITOR SPEAKER CONNECTION The console has a low level monitor audio output that is designed to connect to an external audio power amplifier. The console output will not directly drive speakers. Connect the audio amplifier input to the console Monitor Output on the back panel of the console. Follow the amplifier’s instructions and connect speakers to the amplifier. Turn the console power on and the amplifier power on.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Microphones STEP 5- CONNECT A MIC TO THE CONSOLE Using a mic to XLR cable, connect a mic to the Mic 1 input on the console. Turn Channel One on (the red LED should be on) and set the channel one fader to the in hand position (middle). If the mic itself has an on/off switch, then turn it on. TEST- Speak into the microphone and the console VU meters should follow your voice.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Program Output STEP 6- CONSOLE PROGRAM OUTPUT The console has both balanced and unbalanced Program bus outputs UNBALANCED PROGRAM OUTPUT The console program output (PGM) is located on the console back panel. It is an unbalanced (-10dBu) audio output. BALANCED PROGRAM OUTPUT The console program output (PGM) is located on the console back panel. It is a balanced (+4dBu) audio output on XLR connectors.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Record Output STEP 7- CONSOLE RECORD OUTPUT The console AUDITION output (AUD) is usually the bus that is used for recording. By using the Audition bus for recording, a recording can be occurring at the same time as the Program bus is used On Air. If you want to record the On Air signal on the Program bus, simply assign all of the channels in PGM also to AUD. The Audition output connectors are located on the console back panel. It is an unbalanced (-10dBu) audio output.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Telephone hybrids STEP 8- CONNECT A TELEPHONE HYBRID 1) CONSOLE PHONE INPUT- A telephone hybrid has an audio input and an audio output. The hybrid audio output is the callers voice and is connected to the source input channel 15 on the console. 2) CONSOLE MIX MINUS OUTPUT- The input to the hybrid is from the console PHONE OUT connector on the back of the console.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Talkback to another Studio STEP 9- TALKBACK The Talkback feature is designed so that a console can easily communicate with another studio. In the ARC-15 studio, the operator pushes the TALK button on mic channels One or Two and speaks through his control room mic into the Monitor/cue system of the other studio. The second studio responds back to the ARC-15 studio and the audio is heard through the CUE system.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S External Monitor Input STEP 10- OFF AIR MONITORING The Monitor Selector Switch has an External Input position (AIR). This position is usually used to monitor the actual radio station on air signal from a radio tuner. NOTE: it is important to monitor the actual signal from the radio station and not just the output of the console. This is so as to monitor the entire radio chain from the console to the transmitter.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S The On Air Light STEP 11- CONNECT AN ON AIR LIGHT The console has a logic output for triggering an external On Air Light. This installation procedure requires a professional technician to build an interface circuit for driving the On Air light that you have chosen. Some lights require low voltages (such as 24VDC) and others require 110VAC. Some have built in drivers but most do not. Contact the factory for some typical circuits to drive an On Air light.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Factory built Cables The factory has a number of factory built cables available for purchase. These cables interface typical source and other equipment to the console. Contact the factory for a current listing of cables and supported equipment. 4.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Console Logic IMPORTANT- improper connection to console logic can damage the console. The DB-15 connector on the rear panel of the console has the logic & audio signals required for supporting a talk studio and controlling the starting & stopping of sources. Sample interface circuits for control are illustrated in 4.15.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Console Logic IMPORTANT- improper connection to console logic can damage the console. Channel Logic Several channels on the console feature channel logic for use in talk studios or starting and stopping source devices. The logic requires an interface circuit to be built by a qualified broadcast technician.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Balanced Inputs Input channels with balanced audio using RJ45 connectors as illustrated below. Pins 5,7,8 are not connected. The balanced inputs are >10,000 ohm input impedance and levels are set for +4dBu signals. EIA/TIA 568B WIRING STANDARD COLORS 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 PIN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Wire Color White w/Orange Stripe Orange White w/Green Stripe Blue White w/Blue Stripe Green White w/Brown Stripe Brown 4.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S PC Setup The ARC-15 console features a built in sound card on Channel Fourteen of the console. This enables the console to play audio directly from a Windows PC using Arrakis DHD-Live software. The console can play audio from the PC, record audio to the PC, and control the start and stop of play on the PC. RECOMMENDED OPERATING SYSTEM The minimum PC operating system is Windows XP or VISTA.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S ARC-16SW 16 in X 3 out Remote Selector for the ARC-15 Adding more Inputs to the ARC-15 Console For applications requiring more than the fifteen inputs supported by the ARC-15, the ARC-16SW provides up to 16 more stereo inputs that can be selectable to any 3 console channels. The switcher features balanced inputs that are all trim pot adjustable from consumer levels (-10dBu) to professional levels (+4dBu).
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S ARC-16SW Software Push button Array for Manual Control FEATURES Client/Server network control from ANY studio Manual Pushbutton control of 16 inputs & 3 outputs Customized Labeling of all Inputs & Outputs Source lockout to prevent feedback Touchscreen size buttons One Week Source Automation play list Copy & Paste Hour and Day schedules Play log for reconciliation Emergency Silence Sensor on Main Output Programmable delay time One Week Automation Play List Automatically s
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S ARC-16SW 16 in X 3 out Remote Selector for the ARC-15 SWITCHER WIRING a) WHITE MOLEX CONNECTORS As viewed looking down on the switcher . Pin 7 is engraved on the connector housing. Pins are .090" NOTE: the BROADCAST AUDIO DOCKING STATION is a multipurpose product with applications that vary depending on the firmware loaded into the hardware and the PC software used to control it.
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S Basic Calibration The console has trim pot level adjustment for several inputs and outputs. WARNING The console has been calibrated at the factory to normal -10dBu and +4dBu levels and should not require field calibration. Usually, it is better to adjust the level out of the source device than to adjust the console trim levels. Field calibration should only be done with proper test equipment and by a qualified audio technician.
DHD-LIVE FOR THE ARC CONSOLE 5.
Getting Started Included with an ARC series console (with a USB channel) is a free copy of DHD-Live. This software is the ultimate live assist tool for anyone who wants to put on a dynamic and powerful live show. It includes features that give you unprecedented customization and flexibility. We are confident that you will love this software. This software is intended only for Live Assist. This means that it will not be capable of playing unattended such as with an Automation product like Digilink-HD.
Connecting the PC to the Console To fully interface the console and the PC, three cables must be connected between the two pieces of equipment. (1) USB cable: transfers play and record audio between the PC and the console (2) RS232 cable: transfers logic commands such as play and stop between the PC and the console (3) Audio cable: 1/8" stereo phone jack from the ‘Cue In’ on the console to the ‘Line out (or speaker out)’ on the PC Some PCs do not have an RS232 com port.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE SERVICE & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS 6.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE General Repair Considerations WARNING The console should be repaired by qualified, professional, & experienced, audio technicians ONLY. Before beginning any type of repair or opening the console CALL Arrakis customer support for recommendations. DESIGNED FOR MODULAR PART REPLACEMENT The ARC series console is designed for modular replacement rather than repair. The power supply is external and plug in. The rotary faders are plug in.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Opening the Console WARNING The console should be repaired by qualified, professional, & experienced, audio technicians ONLY. Before beginning any type of repair or opening the console CALL Arrakis customer support for recommendations. ACCESSING THE MOTHERBOARD The motherboard is accessed from the bottom of the console. Six screws must be removed from the bottom panel to have access to the console electronics for test and IC replacement.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Replacing Slide Faders, Switches, and other parts Slide faders and switches are soldered onto the PC board and should be replaced at the factory if at all possible. The procedure requires proper tools, and it can be difficult to remove the parts without damaging traces or pads on the PC board. Also, the switches are very sensitive to temperature and duration during the soldering process and can be electronically damaged or destroyed when being soldered.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Replacing Rotary Faders All 3 rotary faders are in a single wiring harness that plugs into the motherboard. The entire harness should be replaced with all three pots. Contact the factory for a replacement harness. REMOVING THE KNOB KNOB COVER To remove a rotary fader (1) Remove the knob cover as illustrated (2) Remove the nut and nut plate. (3) The pot will now remove from the rear of the front panel. (4) Unplug the pot from the motherboard.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Replacing ICs ICs must be replaced with care. Most ICs in the console are socketed so that they can be replaced. When replacing an IC, be careful to not bend legs under the IC or outside the socket. Be extremely careful to not shock an IC or the motherboard with a static discharge. In some cases, you must use a grounded arm or anklet if there is a possibility of a static discharge. In all cases, retain the old IC because it may be found to not be damaged. 6.
C H A N N E L S I N P U T 6.
6.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Parts Layout (5 ch Expansion bd) Stereo Line Channel Inputs CH 6 CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2 In In In In In CH 7 In Stereo Line Channel Input Preamps CH 7 CH 6 CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 In In In In In CN1 Note All unmarked ICs are NE5532 op amps Mono Mic Channel Inputs Mic 3 In Mic 2 In Mic 3 amp (SSM2019) Mic 2 amp (SSM2019) CH 2 In none Mic 1 amp (SSM2019) none mic jumper position mic jumper position line jumper position line jumper position CH 5 select CH 4 select CN2 Mic 1 I
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Factory Service Technical Questions Arrakis Systems maintains a staff of friendly broadcast engineers, design engineers, and technicians who have many years of in depth field experience in broadcasting. All of our technical resources are available to you to answer installation questions, solve problems, and repair equipment. If you have a question or problem, please feel free to call us. We can not solve every problem, but our people are here to try.
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE Factory Service (continued) Warranty Replacement of Parts To have a part replaced under warranty, you must: 1) Provide a valid product serial number that is within the warranty period 2) Contact the Arrakis customer service department and describe what parts need replacement and the circumstances of the failure. (The customer service department may require on site test by your technician to confirm the part replacement is appropriate for your problem.
BLUETOOTH BLUETOOTH 7.
BLUETOOTH Congratulations on your purchase of an ARC series console. One possible feature with your console is the Bluetooth channel. This section of the manual will assist with the operation of the Bluetooth feature. Bluetooth is an optional feature for the ARC series consoles (ARC-8, ARC-10 series & ARC-15). The Part number in the order will specify ‘blue’ at the end, if you have purchased a Bluetooth version. For example, the ARC-10BP-blue has Bluetooth, but the ARC-10BP does not.
BLUETOOTH HOW TO CONNECT TO AN ANDROID DEVICE Here‘s an example using an Android cell phone with the Jellybean OS: 1. Go to Settings. 2. Turn on the Bluetooth feature. 3. Select Search for devices. 4. Find and select the ARRAKIS 1.1 (firmware number may be different) 5. It will now pair with the ARC console. These steps will vary based on the manufacturer of your device. Please see the device instructions on how to connect to a Bluetooth device (your ARC series console). 7.
BLUETOOTH HOW TO CONNECT TO A WINDOWS 8.1 DEVICE Under Windows 8.1 , the Bluetooth option has been moved to a new section: Press the Windows key + C to open the Charm Bar. Click on Settings and select PC settings. In the new window that opens, go to the PC and devices section. Activate the Bluetooth option. Connecting a Tablet to the Bluetooth. Go to your Bluetooth Manager menu. 1. In Windows 8.1 swipe from the right hand side. You will now see a menu. 2. Press the Settings button at the bottom. 3.
BLUETOOTH HOW TO CONNECT AND USE A CELL PHONE The Bluetooth feature of the ARC series console allows you connect your cell phone to the ARC series console. Thus, enabling you to take calls on your cell phone and either put them on air, or play them on the Cue output. To do this: 1. Pair your cell phone to the Bluetooth ARC console using the steps from the previous section. The red Drop button will be lit if your cell phone is connected. 2. Turn on the Bluetooth channel on your board.
BLUETOOTH HOW TO STREAM AUDIO The Bluetooth feature for the ARC series console allows you to play music or audio from a Bluetooth enabled device, such as a Tablet, MP3 player, or recorder. To stream audio: 1. Pair your device using the instructions from the first section, HOW TO PAIR. The red Drop button will now be lit if your device is connected. 2. Any audio played from your device will now play out the Bluetooth channel on the console.
BLUETOOTH RENAME A BLUETOOTH ARC CONSOLE ON YOUR DEVICE If you have multiple Bluetooth ARC consoles, then it may be necessary to rename the ARRAKIS 1.X. for easier identification. This way it will be easier to identify which Bluetooth console is which. You may accomplish this on your Bluetooth device. Here‘s an example using an Android (Jellybean OS) device: 1. Go into settings. 2. Select the Bluetooth settings. 3. Select the settings for the ARRAKIS 1.1. 4. Select the Rename option. 5.
BLUETOOTH QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE HOW TO PAIR YOUR DEVICE 1. Press and hold the green Call button for 5 seconds to put into Pair mode. You have 10 minutes to connect. 2. Search for ARRAKIS 1.X. and connect. CELL PHONE MODE Call (green) button (quick press) – Accepts call when call is coming in. Drop (red) button (quick press) – Rejects call when call is coming in. Drop (red) button (quick press) – Ends call if call has been taken. INACTIVE MODE Call (green) button (5 second hold) – Set to Pair mode.
BLUETOOTH TROUBLESHOOTING & TIPS TROUBLE PAIRING A DEVICE If you are having trouble pairing a device. Try these steps: 1. Power down, and then power up your ARC console. 2. Press and hold the green Call button for exactly 5 seconds, and then release. You will hear a beep on the Bluetooth channel. 3. You will notice the red Drop button will now blink on your console. This means it is ready to connect. In your cell phone, tablet, or other device, turn on the Bluetooth option.
