Falcon VS User Manual FM Audio Processor (Rev. 2.
ENG 1 Table of Content 1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 5 1.1 FALCON AUDIO PROCESSOR – VERSIONE AVAILABLE .................................................................................................. 5 1.2 OPTION AVAILABLE FOR FALCON AUDIO PROCESSOR SERIES ...................................................................................... 5 1.
ENG 16.4.6 Idle Compression and Idle Speed ..................................................................................................................................50 16.4.7 Work Zone Threshold& Work Zone Release .................................................................................................................50 16.4.8 Band Coupling..........................................................................................................................................................
ENG 20.2 APPENDIX B - SERIAL CONNECTION E PINOUT .......................................................................................... 90 20.3 APPENDIX C - ETHERNET/LAN CONNECTIONS .......................................................................................... 91 20.4 APPENDIX D - USB A/B CONNECTION .......................................................................................................... 91 20.5 APPENDIX E - RDS ABILITATION ...................................................
ENG 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 FALCON AUDIO PROCESSOR – VERSIONE AVAILABLE MODEL COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION NOTES FALCON 3i 4-Band Digital FM Audio Processor with MPX stereo generator. Analog and digital inputs and outputs and double MPX output. MPX Split. AGC, equalizer and speech detector, final limiter drive and brilliance control. 4 GPIn and 4 GPOut, Rs232 serial port and USB. Remote control software.
ENG 1.4 FALCON VS – DEPLIANT AND BROCHURE Falcon VS BROADCAST AUDIO PROCESSOR HIGHLIGHTS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 5-Band Digital Audio Processor AES/EBU and analog I/O Over XLR Automatic audio input changeover 2 composite outputs and 2 AUX inputs Stereo Generator with composite Clipper Mpx Power Control - ITU-R BS.
ENG MAIN DESCRIPTION Falcon VS is a Digital Audio Processor, a Stereo Generator and an RDS encoder, all in a single device, specifically designed for the market of broadcast radio FM, Webradio and Satellite. The Falcon VS audio processor is based on dedicated DSP technology with a 5-band audio processing architecture. The Stereo Generator is fully digital, and can create a perfect Multiplex signal. Falcon VS allows to create your own soundprint, unique and unmistakable.
ENG 1.
ENG 1 SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA SAFETY WARNINGS CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD (Rel. 2.0) 1.1 FOREWORD For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty all text marked with these Warning Symbols should be read carefully. Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor.
ENG 2 SAFETY WARNINGS The installation and servicing instructions in this manual are for use by qualified personnel only. - Read All Instructions. All safety and operating instructions must be read before operating the product. They also must be retained for future reference, as it contains a number of useful hints for determining the best combination of equipment settings for Yr particular application. - Heed All Warnings.
ENG 3 CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES - Lire ces consignes - Conserver ces consignes - Observer tous les avertissements - Suivre toutes les consignes - Ne pas utiliser cet appareil à proximité de l’eau - Ne pas obstruer les ouvertures de ventilation. Installer en respectant les consignes du fabricant - Ne pas installer à proximité d'une source de chaleur telle qu'un radiateur, une bouche de chaleur, un poêle ou d'autres appareils (dont les amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.
ENG 4 ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA - Leggere le presenti istruzioni - Conservare queste istruzioni - Osservare tutte le avvertenze - Seguire scrupolosamente tutte le istruzioni - Non usare questo apparecchio in prossimità di acqua - Non ostruire alcuna apertura per il raffreddamento.
ENG 5 WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE - Diese Hinweise LESEN - Diese Hinweise AUFHEBEN - Alle Warnhinweise BEACHTEN - Alle Anweisungen BEFOLGEN - Dieses Gerät NICHT in der Nähe von Wasser verwenden - KEINE Lüftungsöffnungen verdecken. Gemäß den Anweisungen des Herstellers einbauen - Nicht in der Nähe von Wärmequellen, wie Heizkörpern, Raumheizungen, Herden oder anderen Geräten (einschließlich Verstärkern) installieren, die Wärme erzeugen - Die Schutzfunktion des Schukosteckers NICHT umgehen.
ENG Inpoliger Netzschalter. In Notfälle oder für Wartungsarbeiten Netzkabel trennen.
ENG 6 INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD - LEA estas instrucciones - CONSERVE estas instrucciones - PRESTE ATENCION a todas las advertencias. - SIGA todas las instrucciones - NO utilice este aparato cerca del agua - NO obstruya ninguna de las aberturas de ventilación.
ENG El interruptor de alimentación es unipolar. En el caso de peligro, desconecte el cable de alimentación.
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION 7 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION Your equipment was packed carefully at the factory in a container designed to protect the unit during shipment. Nevertheless, we recommend making a careful inspection of the shipping carton and the contents for any signs of physical damage. Damage & Claims If damage is evident, do not discard the container or packing material. Contact your carrier immediately to file a claim for damages.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 8 FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 8.1 POWER SUPPLY CABLE A power supply cable of approx. 2 mt length is supplied with the device, which has a moulded IEC plug attached – this is a legal requirement. The type of plug for the power supply depends on the country in which it is delivered.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS BEFORE REPLACING THE POWER FUSE, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TYPE OF FUSE FOR THE VOLTAGE TO BE PROTECTED. USING WRONG FUSE TYPE WILL RESULT IN INSUFFICIENT PROTECTION. Make sure that the power is switched off and the power cable is disconnected from the equipment. a. Open the upper iron cover using a screwdriver. b. Replace the fuse located at the internal position – Power supply Type-1 c.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS Basic damage prevention consists of minimizing generation, discharging any accumulated static charge on your body and preventing that discharge from being sent to or through any electronic component. Uninsulated dangerous voltage are inside the enclosure, voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock. Always disconnect to AC Mains before removing the top cover 8.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 8.5 VENTILATION The equipment will operate as a free-standing unit without requiring any special cooling arrangement. However, slots and openings in the product are provided for ventilation. They ensure reliable operation of the product, keeping it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked nor covered during operation. YOU MUST LEAVE AT A MINIMUM ONE RACK UNIT OF EMPTY SPACE ABOVE THE EQUIPMENT TO ENHANCE VENTILATION AND TO GET A LONGER EQUIPMENT LIFE.
FALCON VS – GENERAL DESCRIPTION 9 FALCON VS – GENERAL DESCRIPTION 9.1 FALCON VS – FRONT PANEL N° CONTROL NAME FUNCTION 1 DEVICE NAMEPLATE Plate stating product name and description. 2 LCD-1 Three-line LCD that displays the status and operation mode of the Falcon VS. It displays all the technical parameters for each menu. 3 JOG-SHUTTLE Dial (or JogShuttle) to access the various navigation menus and make changes. Press the JogShuttle to confirm selection.
FALCON VS – GENERAL DESCRIPTION 9.2 N° FALCON VS – REAR PANEL CONTROL NAME FUNCTION 1 “DIGITAL” UNIT This section contains the connections for AES / EBU digital inputs and outputs on the balanced XLR connection. Digital Input 1 is marked as 1C while Input 2D is the Sync AES/EBU. The output is an AES/EBU format male XLR connector. 2 “USB” PORT USB -B type data communication port. This port is used to remotely control the device using a standard PC.
FALCON VS – GENERAL DESCRIPTION 5 6 7 ANALOG OUTPUT ANALOG audio output of the Falcon VS audio processor. Electronically balanced output on XLR connector (type: stereo / mono) ANALOG INPUT (ANALOG INPUT –A) ANALOG audio input of the Falcon VS audio processor, with electronically balanced XLR connection. MPX UNIT “MPX OUTPUTS” unit: this contains the two output MPX lines.
BLOCK DIAGRAM OF FALCON VS 10 BLOCK DIAGRAM OF FALCON VS | BLOCK DIAGRAM OF FALCON VS - 25
INSTALLATION AND USE OF THE FALCON VS CONTROL SW 11 INSTALLATION AND USE OF THE FALCON VS CONTROL SW The installation procedure of the Falcon VS control software is described below. The program runs on all Windows platforms, including Windows Xp sp3, Windows Vista and Windows 7 32-bit and Windows 7 64-bit and Windows 8 Pro 64bit. The control software must be installed before connecting the devices to the USB port.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF THE FALCON VS CONTROL SW 5. Select a destination folder or leave folder unchanged, click NEXT and then INSTALL 6. The software will start installing the program on the PC; during installation a request for confirmation to install the USB drivers for the connection to the Falcon VS device will appear. 7. At the end of the installation this page will appear; click Finish and two new icons will be created on the desktop: a. b. 8. Axel Universal Software Remoter v2.
USE OF THE UNIVERSAL TARGET ADDRES MANAGER 12 USE OF THE UNIVERSAL TARGET ADDRES MANAGER The Falcon VS Target Address Manager software is used to assign to Falcon VS an Individual Address via UECP protocol, to reset one or all of the RDS service datasets, to set either the RDS mode if it is perfectly compliant with the UECP standard, or to set the extended mode. A plug activation key can also be entered in order to upgrade the machine or add new features.
USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE 13 USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE The Universal Remoter is powerful control/monitoring software which can be used for the entire series of audio processors, including: - Falcon 3i Falcon VS Falcon XT This single software package can be used to can control three different types of audio processors, stereo encoders, and RDS generators. There are two software operation modes: "Single Target Mode" and "Network Mode", as outlined below. Universal Remoter start window 13.
USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE 13.2 “SINGLE TARGET MODE” CONNECTION Pressing Single Target Mode establishes a direct, two-way communication link with the Falcon device. To select which communication channel to use and set the relative parameters, click "Connection Settings". The Single Target Mode is the easiest and most immediate way to connect the Falcon processor to the Host PC. It requires a two-way communication channel between the Host PC and the Falcon encoder.
USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE 13.3 DIRECT UPLINK TO VIA MODEM Every time the connection to the Falcon is made using two dial-up modems, select 'MODEM' in the Communication Channel configuration windows. mode is ‘two-way'. The default link Please see the APPENDIX to this manual for the physical connection between the modem and the Falcon at the remote end (Serial Port 1 of the Falcon must be used for this).
USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE 13.4 CONNECTION TO A DIAL-UP MODEM Whenever remote monitoring is required via a dial-up modem, connect the modem to Serial Port 1 on the back of the unit. Check the configuration of Port 1 carefully, its speed must be set to: - 38400 Baud for dial-up POTS modems - 9600 Baud for GSM modems. A ‘crossover’ CABLE (NULLMODEM) is required for the modem connection.
USE OF UNIVERSAL REMOTER SOFTWARE You will have to load the settings into the modem memory, so that they are immediately loaded when the modem starts up. Please refer to the modem user manual for more information. 13.5 DIRECT LINK CONNECTION Once you have set the connection parameters, you can connect to the Falcon device. Clicking "Connect to Single Target" opens a second panel, the "Connection Manager" panel (the photo shows how the Falcon is not yet connected to the control PC).
FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE 14 FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE Universal Remoter allows you to control the Falcon VS device via a one-way or two-way connection; the screen that appears after installing and accessing the software is shown below: | FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE - 34
FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE 14.1 TYPE OF FALCON AUDIO PROCESSOR CONNECTED On the left-hand side of the screen, you can see the kind of Falcon device connected and the options linked to it. More specifically, for the Falcon VS, you can select a version with audio processor and MPX encoder only, which can be displayed as the Falcon VS.
FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE 14.2 “SETTINGS” SECTION The SETTINGS section contains some general work parameters for the Falcon VS. 14.2.1 Target Settings: Using this box you can set the mnemonic name of the device to which you are connected (in the ID Label section). The "Name" section contains the name of the machine and is non-editable, while the "FW NUM" is the individual ID code of the firmware installed on the Falcon VS device.
FALCON VS CONTROL VIA SOFTWARE 14.2.3 Aux Settings - SCA inputs The Falcon VS can have two composite MPX outputs connected at the rear of the device (shown as MPX-1 and MPX-2), as well as two broadband auxiliary inputs mixed with the former. The photo below helps understand how the multiplex auxiliary signals are "mixed": As you can see from the numbering shown, by flagging one of the functions from 1 to 4, the signal from the AUX (SCA) input towards one or both of the two MPX outputs is added on.
THE MPX GENERATOR 14.2.5 Audio Preset Manager and Alarm: This section has two sections, called “On Air Audio Preset Change”, which show the preset channel currently broadcasting (whether this is the factory setting or a customised one), while the ”External Preset Change” section shows which preset channel is broadcast when an external command is received. The external command which "switches" the preset channel broadcasting is inputted at GPIn-2.
THE MPX GENERATOR 15.1 MPX SECTION The MPX section contains controls for the two multiplex outputs (MPX OUT-1 and MPX OUT-2) 15.1.1 MPX Output Level This section contains two individual controls for the two composite outputs. This way, the equipment that requires different power levels can be handled individually, so that they can be adjusted as needed. Level adjustable from -6.0 dBu to +12.0 dBu in 0.1 dBu-steps. 15.1.
THE MPX GENERATOR 15.1.4 MPX Clipper This value can be settable at between 95% and 105%, the MPX Clipper stage operates within the pre-pilot region stage and is performed on the L + R and L-R signals, before the pilot signal is entered. This design ensures that the clipping is only performed on the composite signal, never on the Stereo Pilot signal. The MPX Clipper stage can also be set to OFF via the same menu. When disabled, the MPX Composite Clipper circuit is totally disconnected and not operational.
THE MPX GENERATOR 15.2 MPX POWER LIMITER CONTROL (ITU-R BS.412) The aim of standard ITU-R BS.412 is to reduce the density of the modulated signal while maintaining the same peak deviation level, so as to keep co-channel interference as low as possible. Standard ITU-R BS.412 stipulates: "It is assumed that the maximum peak deviation of ± 75 kHz is never exceeded.
AUDIO CONTROL 16 AUDIO CONTROL This section of the manual specifies the operating mode of the audio control parameters.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.1 AUDIO INPUTS This section contains all the working parameters for the Falcon VS analog and digital inputs. In addition to these controls, you can set parameters such as pre-emphasis and the main audio input (Input Setup). 16.1.1 Analog Input The balanced analog audio sensitivity ranges from -10dBu to +10 dBu, with 0.1dBusteps.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.1.2 Phase rotator input In the input stage, the processor generates a phase rotation via a ‘phase rotator’ circuit. This optimisation is achieved by means of a dedicated filter which acts on the input signal waveform to avert unwanted effects, as in the case where material with a highly vocal content is inputted directly into the audio processor.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.1.3 Digital Input The balanced digital audio sensitivity ranges from -25dBFs to 0 dBFs, with 0.1dBFssteps. The section on Input Mode features the operating modes for the audio processor inputting stage: the functional operating (or nominal operating) conditions are either Stereo or Mono L + R, while the Mono L and Mono R functions are considered to be the test or configuration mode. In the input stage, a HPF (high pass filter) is available with two cutting modes: 5 Hz or 30Hz.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.1.5 What are pre-emphasis and de-emphasis and what are they for? In an FM system, noise has a random spectral distribution of a triangular type, with the result that noise occurs mainly at high frequencies within the bandwidth. This may be offset, to a limited extent, by increasing the high frequencies prior to transmission and reducing those quantities of high frequencies during reception. Consequently, reducing the high frequencies in the receiver also reduces the high frequency noise.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.2 AUDIO OUTPUTS This section contains all the working parameters for the Falcon VS analog output and digital output. 16.2.1 Analog Output OUTPUT LEVEL: the analogue output level of the Falcon VS. The values settable range from -6.0 dBu to +20.0 dBu in 0.1dBu-steps ANALOG DE-EMPHASIS: the ability to filter the analog output to remove the emphasis effect.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.3 SIGNAL GENERATOR One special feature of the Falcon VS is the internal generator which produces sinusoidal signals in audio waveform. This feature is very important when it is necessary to generate test signals and calibrate studio transmitter link (STL) networks or the input and output phases of other equipment. The Falcon VS internal generator offers maximum accuracy.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.4 AUDIO PRE-PROCESS – THE AGC CONTROL The two parts which are key to creating your own Sound footprint for the station can be found in the Audio Pre-Process and Audio Process sections. The Input section also plays a key role in the audio processing chain, since discrepancies between the input/output impedances or incorrect input sensitivity can generate audio disturbances or distortions.
AUDIO CONTROL the screen. This condition is also displayed in the software. In the event of a change in the signal, the AGC function always waits for a set time of 0.5 seconds before acting. 16.4.5 L/R Linkage This control determines the percentage by which the left-hand and righthand channels are connected together. A 0% setting means the LR channel is completely decoupled and the processing architecture is of a dual mono kind. 100% linkage means that the input audio content is stereo balanced.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.4.11 Stereo Enhancer Using the Stereo Enhancer you can increase the spatial image of stereo sound. Listeners will notice greater loudness, brilliance, and clarity of sound, as well as a more dynamic effect and greater depth of the sound. The accuracy of the integrated DSP in the Falcon VS prevents the introduction of harmonic distortion and an unnatural sound source footprint.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.5 AUDIO PROCESS Most audio processors use a combination of internal compressors, limiters, and clippers that attempt to reduce the dynamics, by reducing the modulation peaks and increasing the average ratio in each stage of the audio signal processing. A cascade arrangement of the compressor, limiter, and clipper produces the best results.
AUDIO CONTROL Clipping: Clipping the audio waveform has no effect on an acoustics level as long as it is done with moderation. Over-clipping produces a distorted waveform, which sounds like a tear, a laceration of the sound. Clipping can also be a good way of controlling the high frequency peaks, as long as it is used in association with a distortion control filter.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.7 MULTIBAND CONTROL AND MULTIBAND PROCESS /1 In the Multiband control page, you can define the amount of compression to apply to each bandwidth, ranging from a minimum of - 6.0 dB to a maximum of + 6.0 dB. Using this control, you can set the threshold at which the compressor must react. A Threshold setting of 0dB (extreme high) means that the compressor only works when the level of that bandwidth reaches of 0dB. Conversely, a setting of -9.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.9 MULTIBAND CONTROL AND MULTIBAND PROCESS /2 The Multiband Process section contains four parameters: Coupling, MultiBand Process, Final Limiter Drive, and Final Limiter Bass Drive, with Brilliance Control, Limiter LookAhead Mode, Expander, Overdrive, Super Bass Mode and Super Bass Harmonizer 16.9.1 Multiband Process: This control shows process behaviour of the Falcon VS. Various controls are grouped together under a few simple use conditions.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.9.4 Final Limiter Drive The Final Limiter Drive is the last stage before the MPX stereo encoder, right between the Final Expander and the Power Limiter. This control allows you to increase or decrease the substance of the audio material delivered to the MPX encoder. The term MAIN refers to the fact that it operates on the 350Hz to 15kHz frequency range.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.9.8 Expander The multiband expander is used to reduce the background noise on vocal audio signals or a microphone, or to reduce unwanted effects caused by the introduction of strong compressions. The allowed and available values range from OFF to +5. To ensure the adjustments are performed properly, we recommend you listen to the voices without music, or keep the background music low.
AUDIO CONTROL 16.10 PRESET MANAGER The Audio Control -> Preset Manager section contains a number of very important features for loading, saving, and exporting presets to and from the PC or factory presets with user customizations. The Preset Manager comprises four sections: • Change target Preset • Preset save to Target • Preset Load from file • Preset save to file In the Change Target preset, you can load one of the ten presets by clicking on Change.
AUDIO CONTROL The last part of the PRESET MANAGER section is the Load Preset from File function. This feature allows you to reload the parameters previously exported from the Falcon VS. When you click on LOAD, a dialog box appears. Select the preset that you want to recall and click on Open.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP 17 RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP The Radio Data System (RDS), which was introduced worldwide in 1992, is the European Union standard for sending small amounts of digital information via the conventional FM radio transmission system. The RDS system allows stations to transmit various kinds of information, including their identifier. RDS has been standard in Europe since the nineties. With RDS, data is sent at 1187.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP 17.1 RDS GENERATOR – RDS ENCODER BLOCK DIAGRAM 17.1.1 ON/OFF, RDS PHASE AND LEVEL Open the 'RDS SETTINGS' windows from the main tree menu. In the relative panel, select the 'RDS on' option to enable RDS generation. The RDS carrier can also be turned on or off via the front panel. The RDS Level cursor sets the RDS generation level within a range of - 44.0 and - 20.0 dB, where 0 dBm is a deviation of 75 kHz.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP 17.2.1 CHARACTER TABLES (FOR RT, PS, PTYN SERVICES) The Falcon VS allows you to select the character table used in all text services, such as PS, RT, PTYN. It also allows you to add control characters, as envisaged by EBU and ISO standards.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP 17.3 FALCON VS ACCESS RIGHTS In the RDS version, the Falcon VS offers users the chance to filter the services managed by the different communication ports. The Falcon VS has both a Serial Com port and a USB port available. The USB port is identified as Port 2, while the and as RS232 port is Port 1. For each port, if you select the associated service, you can assign each port different access rights.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR - GENERAL SETUP 17.4 STATIC RDS SETTING IN FALCON VS The Static RDS section contains a tree menu and three submenus consisting of the Real Time Clock, GenPurpose DS1, and GenPurpose DS2. These menus contain all the data relating to the PS, Radio Text, Time, etc messages. 17.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18 DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.1 INTRODUCTION TO DATASET1 The DataSet 1 multifunction menu includes all the settings related to the Main network (which is transmitting the dataset) and up to 10 EON (Enhanced Other Networks). There is also another page (Services) for enabling/configuring the RDS services supported in the dataset. 18.2 RDS GROUP CONFIGURATION (‘SERVICE’ PANEL) As with the UECP protocol, the Services panel allows you to enable individual RDS services/features (e.g.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.3 EON/PSN SERVICES IN DATASET 1 The PSN (Programme Service Number) List is used as a reference for the entire UECP index. It allows you to associate the various PSN items (i.e. RDS configurations) with the main networks and the EON, so that the same UECP command (e.g. TA) can be transmitted to each encoder at the same time, regardless of which network it belongs to, thereby activating the TA on the main network and the EON-TA on the connected network.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.4 PI (PROGRAMME IDENTIFIER) CODE The Main Network Panel contains all the settings relating to the RDS signal currently being transmitted. A double click on the Main Network icon will open a subtree containing the following panels: Basic Services, Alternative Frequencies, RT (Radio Text) Edit, PinPtyEdit, PsnEdit, Scheduler. Access the Basic Services page. 18.4.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.5 DI (DECODER IDENTIFIER) DI (DECODER IDENTIFIER): This dropdown menu allows you to select the modulation type (Stereo, Mono, etc.). The stereo modulation is assigned to STEREO, STATIC PTY, while the mono is assigned to MONO, STATIC PTY. Click OK to confirm, or ESC to exit without saving. 18.6 LINKAGE INFORMATION (LA, EG, ILS, LSN) This can be accessed via the 'Basic Services' panel.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION M/S - Music/Speech is a double status signal which can signal whether music or speech is being transmitted. The signal will allow receivers to be equipped with two separate volume controls, one for music and one for speech, so that the listener can adjust the balance between them to suit their personal listening habits. See the Appendix of this manual for the GPIO interface pinout. The TA, TP and MS services are included in the group of Basic Services packages 18.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.9 ALTERNATIVE FREQUENCIES (AF) The alternative frequencies (AF) list or lists provide information on the various transmitters broadcasting the same program in the same area or in adjacent reception areas. This structure proves particularly useful for car radios and portable radios. NB: Overall, up to 500 alternative frequencies can be entered in each dataset. The list of alternative frequencies (AF) can be transmitted via two procedures: Procedure A and Procedure B.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.10 AF LIST CONSTRUCTION METHOD First loading procedure (Drag & Drop) Select the AF from the available frequencies in the left-hand window by leftclicking them, then dragging over to the AF list. Release the left-hand mouse button to drop the frequency in the desired AF list. Second loading procedure (preset AF list) Highlight the AF to load by clicking on them. The selected column will go bright red.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION A warning message is displayed to remind you that you are ONLY deleting in the Database Manager, so if you wish to enter information at this time, press SEND.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.11 “METHOD A” AND “METHOD B” FOR THE ALTERNATIVE FREQ. There are two ways of transmitting the AF lists: Procedure A or Method A and Procedure B or Method B. In both cases, the lists should only include the frequencies for the closest transmitters and repeaters (with overlapping coverage areas). Generally speaking, Procedure A is used when the list contains no more than 25 frequencies and Procedure B is used when the list is longer (up to a maximum of 24 lists).
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION PROCEDURE B (METHOD B) As mentioned earlier, Method B is used when there are large numbers of alternative frequencies and/or when the transmitter also has frequencies transmitting different radio programmes at different times of the day (subdivision, local programming, etc.). In the latter case, the mobile receiver must check whether the AF is transmitting the same content before selecting another frequency.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.12 RADIO TEXT PANEL Once you have selected the Radio Text panel, you can enter up to 16 Radio Text messages, each one with a maximum of 64 characters (including spaces). This refers to the text transmission, mainly aimed at home receivers, which will be equipped with suitable display structures. This feature can also be used to display cyclical messages. NB: only the MAIN RT field can be programmed according to UECP protocol.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.13 PIN – PTY SERVICES PIN / PTY EDITOR allows you to set up to 32 different PIN / PTY / PTYN items. - PIN – Programme Item Number The PIN code will be used to enable the receivers and recorders designated to use this feature to respond to the programme item or items that the user has pre-selected. The time used is the time set in the programme with the day of the month added to avoid confusion.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION Please remember to enable PTY and PTYN groups in the Main RDS SERVICE panel. The group numbers are for PTY 1A and for PTYN 10A PTY CODE 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 PROGRAMME TYPE None or indeterminate News Current affairs Information Sport Educational Theatre Culture Science Miscellaneous Pop Rock M.O.R.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.14 PROGRAMME SERVICE NAME The Programme Service Name is a text comprising no more than eight alphanumeric characters which is displayed by RDS receivers in order to inform the listener of the programme service transmitted by the station which the receiver is tuned into. One example of a PS name is "Radio 1". The name of the programme service is not designed for use for automatic tuning searches. NB: the MAIN PSN can only be programmed in compliance with UECP protocol.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.15 VARIABLE PS ITEMS - STANDARD OPERATION The section below outlines some of the standard tools for managing the variable PS items. For advanced PS scheduling/programming, please see the Scheduler panel information (next section). 18.15.1 PS SEQUENCES In Extended UECP mode, the Falcon VS allows you to easily create and transmit sequences comprising a maximum of 60 PS names.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.16 THE SCHEDULER The Scheduler allows you to organize round-the-clock RDS transmission on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. The Scheduler is used to implement the specific Falcon VS RDS transmission/editing features (PS, PTY/PIN) at specific times and dates. The programming editing is saved and implemented immediately. The programming activity is activated (i.e. aired) in 1 minute at the most.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION This section provides working knowledge of the Scheduler’s general features and step-by-step programming instructions. In particular, it describes how to enter items (PS Names, etc.) already created in blank event slots (lines) in the Programming Table. To open the Scheduler, click the Scheduler icon in the navigation tree.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.16.1 START Check that the clock shows the right current time. Highlight the event to be programmed by clicking on the yellow field in the Event lines: the event selected will appear in the Edit bar at the bottom of the panel. The figure shows Event 2 selected. 18.16.2 SELECTING AN ITEM TYPE In this stage, you can select the type of event or events to implement from the list of items available (PS, PTY/PIN).
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.16.4 SETTING THE SCHEDULER TIME AND DATE The Calendar area allows you to set the date and time at which the Scheduler is required to implement the event(s). When the menu open arrow next to the date fields is selected, the specific Hour/Minutes/Day/Month/Year menu appears. The date or time range can be selected from this menu. The Falcon VS Scheduler works according to a temporal correspondence mechanism. This means that, at the beginning of each minute (i.e.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION The PSN 02 scheduled in the example above (Event 1) will be active as follows: From 07:10 to 07:19 From 09:10 to 09:19 From 11:10 to 11:19 From 08:10 to 08:19 From 10:10 to 10:19 From 12:10 to 12:19 EXAMPLE 7 The PSN 04 scheduled in the example above (Event 1) will be active as follows: 13:07 (i.e. from 13:07:00 to 13:07:59) 13:37 (i.e. from 13:37:00 to 13:37:59) 13:17 (i.e. from 13:17:00 to 13:17:59) 13:47 (i.e. from 13:47:00 to 13:47:59) 13:27 (i.e.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION Day of the WEEK option The event is launched every selected day of the week (in which case, the Year, Month, and Day menus are automatically disabled). 18.16.5 ENABLING AN EVENT Once you have set up a new event via the Edit bar, Enable must be checked (YES) (see Scheduler figure) 18.16.6 EVENT REFRESH Once you have keyed in a new event via the Edit bar and enabled it, click on the following button: UPDATE (REFRESH) to schedule the event (or render it effective).
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 8 Event 1: PSN. 00 (Main PS) is the default PS (i.e. It is transmitted whenever no other PS is scheduled) Event 2: PSN 01 is scheduled every day, from 07.00 am to 12.59 am. It will replace PSN 00 within that time range. Event 3: PSN 02 is only scheduled for Mondays from 10:00 am to 11:59 am. 11 When an event ends and no other event matches the current time, the Scheduler will keep the last event on air for another 2 or 3 minutes. The default PSN (i.e.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 10 (Use of PSN Stopped) Recommended PS scheduling includes a fixed PSN (i.e. 8 characters) for most of the time (90%) and dynamic PS sequences that begin every few minutes (e.g. every 5 minutes). For scheduling of this kind, the PSN Editor panel should look similar to the figure below. Note that the speed of the last PSN (BBC ONE) is set at 'Stopped' as this is the PSN that must be displayed for a lengthy period.
DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION 18.17 EON NETWORK CONFIGURATION IN DATASET 1 The Enhanced Other Network feature can be used to update the information stored in a receiver concerning other programme services than those received. Alternative frequencies, the PS name, the Traffic Programme, and the Traffic Announcement identification, as well as the Programme Type and Programme Item Number information, can be transmitted for any other service.
ALTERNATIVE DATASET 2 - CONFIGURATION AND RECALL 19 ALTERNATIVE DATASET 2 - CONFIGURATION AND RECALL To configure Dataset 2, carry out the same configuration procedure as for Dataset 1. 19.1 DATASET 'RECALL' MODE The Dataset can be selected via the current Dataset menu in the RDS SETTINGS page. There are a number of options available. 19.2 SELECTING THE ALTERNATIVE DATASET The Alternative Dataset is the dataset used in alternative to the current dataset.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20 TECHNICAL APPENDIX This section provides all the technical explanations, and the connection pinouts to and from the Falcon VS device. Always refer to this technical appendix for connections and connection procedures. In case of differences between the documentation below and the hardware device, please contact Axel Technology at the numbers and e-mail addresses shown at the end of this manual. Our technical and assistance department will be pleased to help you! 20.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.3 APPENDIX C - ETHERNET/LAN CONNECTIONS 20.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.5 APPENDIX E - RDS ABILITATION When buying the Falcon VS you may not require, need, or want the RDS (Radio Data System) encoder as a component of the audio processor. If, afterwards, you need to activate this feature, then you will have to obtain a Plug Activation Key. This option can be requested by email from the Axel Technology support service at support@axeltechnology.com.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.6 APPENDIX F - GPIO PORT The 15 pin HD SubD GPIO connector on the back of the Falcon VS features four General Purpose inputs and four General Purpose binary outputs. The inputs are polarised Opto coupler inputs, while the outputs are Open Collector outputs. They can be used to send commands to the device and to carry out specific functions. The inputs feature polarized photo couplers on each input and a 150 Ohm protection resistor is always installed in series inside.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.6.2 GP In connection via external signal activation (TTL) As shown in the diagram below, taking the voltage externally from the Falcon VS it is possible to polarize a photo coupler and use one of the four GP Input available. Caution: in this case the ground of the TTL signals of the generators are common.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.6.3 GP In correspondancy (Internal view) View from the back, ie within the SubD connector 15p HD. Connections correspond to the internal connections of the Falcon VS 20.6.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.6.
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 20.6.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21 APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.1 Analog connection a. Falcon VS connection via analog audio. The main programme output (PGM) is sent to the Falcon VS audio processor via XLR connection. The MPX composite output is sent via BNC connection to the transmitter MPX input.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.2 AES/EBU Digital connection b. Falcon VS connection via AES/EBU digital audio. The main programme output (PGM) is sent to the Falcon VS audio processor via XLR cable. The MPX composite output is sent via BNC connection to the transmitter MPX input.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.3 Analog connection and two transmitters c. Falcon VS connection with two transmitters, i.e. a programme transmitter and standby transmitter, or two identical programme transmitters broadcasting on different frequencies via analog audio connection. The main program output (PGM) is sent to the Falcon VS audio processor via XLR connection. The MPX composite output is sent via BNC connection to the transmitter MPX input.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.4 Analog Connection and an RDS Encoder (SideChain) d. Falcon VS connection to a third party RDS encoder. The RDS encoder output is sent to Input AUX-2 RDS, while to provide the RDS encoder with a Sync signal for the 19kHz pilot tone, the entire programme can be taken out via MPX OUT-2. Take care not to send the same signal as is generated by the RDS encoder to MPX OUT-2; please see the section on AUX SETTINGS – SCA INPUTS.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.5 Analog Connection and an Axel Technology RDS encoder (SideChain) e. Side-Chain connection mode: depending on the availability of a reference Sync signal that can be taken from MPX OUT 2 (use of the stereo generator 19 kHz clock) it is much easier to lock the signal RDS phase at the pilot frequency. This greatly facilitates elimination of any intermodulation components that may exist between the pilot and the RDS signal.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.6 Analog Connection and an Axel Technology RDS encoder (Loop-Through) f. Loop-through mode, the output of the Falcon Audio Processor is wired directly to the input AUX 1 of the RDS encoder. The output of the RDS encoder will be connected to the normal input composite / MPX transmitter FM exciter.
APPENDIX G - FALCON VS CONNECTION EXAMPLE 21.1.7 Analog Connection and a RDS Encoder (Loop-Through) g. Loop-through mode, the output of the Falcon Audio Processor is wired directly to the input of the RDS encoder input. The output of the RDS encoder will be connected to the normal input composite / MPX transmitter FM exciter.
APPENDIX F – FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCEDURE 22 APPENDIX F – FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCEDURE The most recent firmware version is installed by the manufacturer on the Falcon VS before it is delivered. Once purchased, the firmware can be updated with the latest version available. The Firmware Upgrade can be carried out using the Windows operating system. The suitable operating systems are: Windows Xp Sp3, Windows Vista and Windows 7 Ultimate 32/64 Bit. Check that Microsoft.
APPENDIX F – FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCEDURE f. Select the PC serial port on the screen and switch off the Falcon Vs g. Switch on the Falcon VS device and in timing between 1 and 3 second after the switch on push the CONNECT button. To be sure, after the switch ON wait just one second. h. Once the software is connected to the Falcon VS device, the following page will appear: At the same time the front display of the device remains completely blank, showing nothing. i.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION - FALCON VS 23 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION - FALCON VS GENERAL Dimension AC Rate Type of power supply Processing architecture Operative Delay VALUE 434x351x44mm (1 rack unit) 230Vac / 110Vac 50 Hz / 60 Hz 30VA Universal switching power supply Fully digital, based on DSP 24bit/100Mhz. Signal processing is performed by phase linear filter Total processing chain audio 8 mS.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION - FALCON VS MPX Stereo Generator Pilot Frequency Pilot Injection Pilot Stability: Pilot Phase Pilot distortion Pilot distortion + Noise MPX S/N Composite out THD Stereo Separation Linear Crosstalk: Crosstalk Main to Sub / Sub to Main Composite Clip Drive: Digital filtering / band 57 kHz (RDS/RBDS) Protection 38KHz suppress.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION - FALCON VS Groups Data Sets AF lists for each Data Set PS animation RT messages for each Data Set Scheduler REMOTE INTERFACE Digital Inputs GPIn Digital Outputs GPOut Serial Interface USB Ethernet Port and Parser ASCII protocol AF - Alternative Frequencies PIN - Programme-item number EON - Enhanced Other Networks CT - Clock-time and date RT - Radio Text LA - Linkage Actuator EG - Extended Generic indicator ILS - International Linkage Set indicator LSN - Linkage Set Number LIC -
TEST ON LABORATORY 24 TEST ON LABORATORY Test Report done in laboratory using UPV – R&S and Texas Instruments device 24.1.1 Analog Input to Digital Output THD+N 24.1.
25.1.1 Digital Input to analog Output THD+N 25.1.
25.1.3 AUX1-MPX1 THD+N 25.1.
25.1.5 AUX2-MPX1 Linearity 25.1.
25.1.7 AUX1-MPX2 Linearity 25.1.
25.1.9 AUX2-MPX2 Linearity 25.1.
25.1.11 MPX1 Pilot THD+N 25.1.
25.1.
WEEE Directive – Informativa RAEE 26 WEEE Directive – Informativa RAEE 11In line with EU Directive 2002/96/EC for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), this electrical product must not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste. Please dispose of this product by returning it to the point of sale or to your local municipal collection point for recycling.
GUARANTEE 27 GUARANTEE The product is covered by a one-year ex-works manufacturer’s guarantee. Do not open the device. The guarantee will not be valid if the guarantee seals are broken. The manufacturer cannot be held liable for damages of any type deriving from or relating to incorrect use of the product.
FINAL NOTES AND AXEL TECHNOLOGY CONTACT DETAILS 29 FINAL NOTES AND AXEL TECHNOLOGY CONTACT DETAILS ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________
