BARRACCUDA Smart Coder Digital MPX and RDS Coder User Manual Stereo Generator and RDS Encoder (Rev. 2.0 EN) Main Office BOLOGNA: Via Caduti Di Sabbiuno 6/F 40011 Anzola Emilia - Bologna - Italy Tel. +39 051 736555 - Fax. +39 051 736170 Regional Office BERGAMO: Via Italia 1 – 24030 Medolago (Bg) – Italy Tel. +39 051 736555 - Fax. +39 051 736170 e-mail: info@axeltechnology.com - web site: www.axeltechnology.
ENG THANK YOU FOR CHOOSE AXEL TECHNOLOGY BARRACUDA, the Smart Coder! THANK YOU FOR CHOOSE AXEL TECHNOLOGY BARRACUDA, the Smart Coder! MAIN FEATURES Digital RDS/ RBDS encoder and MPX Stereo Generator, 1 RU, with display and operation buttons on front panel. 2 RS232 opto-isolated ports for RDS management, by the software Smart Coder Remoter available with the unit.
ENG 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS THANK YOU FOR CHOOSE AXEL TECHNOLOGY BARRACUDA, the Smart Coder! ................................ 2 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................. 3 2 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 6 2.1 A POWERFUL, CENTRALIZED REMOTE CONTROL ..........................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG 21.1.3 THE MNEMONIC IDENTIFIERS FOR SINGLE TARGETS OR GROUPS ............................................. 46 21.1.4 SYSTEM TREE – EDITING TOOLS ......................................................................................................... 47 21.2 SECOND STEP: THE ‘WORK MODE’ ........................................................................................... 48 21.3 CONFIGURATION OF A MONO-DIRECTIONAL COM CHANNEL ..............................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS ENG 27.17.8 UPDATING AN EVENT ....................................................................................................................... 88 27.17.9 DELETING A SCHEDULED EVENT ................................................................................................... 88 27.17.10 EVENT PRIORITY ................................................................................................................................ 88 27.17.11 SCHEDULER OVERALL EXAMPLES .........
INTRODUCTION ENG 2 INTRODUCTION BARRACUDA AVAILABLE VERSIONS AND OPTIONS BARRACUDA Digital MPX and RDS/RBDS Encoder Options 2.1 Description Barracuda-DG-IN Digital Audio Input – AES/EBU and TOS-LINK Barracuda-Split Split Circuit option A POWERFUL, CENTRALIZED REMOTE CONTROL One of the most important Barracuda ‘key feature’is its total remote control capability via the Smart Coder Remoter dedicated software running on all current Windows platforms.
SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA 3 SAFETY WARNINGS / ISTRUZIONI PER LA SICUREZZA SAFETY WARNINGS CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD (Rel. 1.3) 3.1 FOREWORD For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty all text marked with these Warning Symbols should be read carefully.
SAFETY WARNINGS 4 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.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES 5 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.
ISTRUZIONI IMPORTANTI PER LA SICUREZZA 6 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.
WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSHINWEISE 7 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.
INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES DE SEGURIDAD 8 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.
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION ENG 9 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 ENG 10 FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS 10.1 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 ENG 10.3 FUSE REPLACEMENT The power supply socket has an integral fuse drawer containing the AC power fuse and a spare, both of the same value. 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 fuse drawer using a small blade screwdriver. b.
FIRST INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS ENG 10.4 PROTECTION AGAINST LIGHTNING Should the device be put out of action due to being struck by lightning or excess voltage, disconnect it from the power supply without delay. Do not reconnect until the device has been checked. If in doubt contact the technical support service. Make sure there is suitable lightning protection to protect the device.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION ENG 11 GENERAL DESCRIPTION 11.1 FRONT PANEL N° Name 1 DISPLAY 2 LCD CONTRAST Trimmer setting to regulates the LCD Contrast 3 JOG-SHUTTLE: For menu navigation and parameters modify.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION 11.2 ENG REAR PANEL N° Name Description 1 MAIN AC SWITCH The Barracuda uses a power entry module with AC switch just next to the IEC power cord receptacle. It can operate on 110 or 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz AC mains voltages. If the unit is to be used with a mains voltage different to that for which the unit is supplied, set the voltage change-over switch, which is placed inside the box, closed to the AC transformer.
ENG GENERAL DESCRIPTION 5 SYNC-OUT OUTPUT 6 SECONDARY MPX ‘OUTPUT’ (MPX 2) 7 MAIN ‘OUTPUT’ (MPX 1) This is the Main MPX and/or RBDS/RDS (with or without signals injected from Aux 1 and 2 mixed into). You can adjust the overall output level through the menu (MPX Level control in the MPX MODULE SETUP page) in the – 9 dBm to +15dBm range. Factory preset: 0 dBm (2.2 Vpp). This output can provide a reference tone consisting of a 500 Hz / 0 dBm sinusoidal signal.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION 11 OPTO PORT ENG 15-pin female Interface connector provides 5 optoinsulated “trigger” inputs. These inputs can be used to dynamically alter the Barracuda operational attributes (f.i. some RDS flags, as TA, M/S,etc) in response to logic signal transitions. All the inputs can be assignable (See revealent Chapeter for details) 11.3 THE INTERNAL CLOCK Equipment internal Clock is powered by a SuperCAP (capacitor) instead of a traditional battery.
BARRACUDA BLOCK DIAGRAM ENG 12 BARRACUDA BLOCK DIAGRAM 21 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
FRONT PANEL OPERATION ENG 13 FRONT PANEL OPERATION As already mentioned, the user interface consists of a front panel-mounted jog-wheel, two buttons and an LCD screen. The LCD screen displays menus, parameter settings and several bargraphs (Level Meters or processing activity). The menus are used for the processing parameters adjustment. Rotating the jog-wheel lets you browse up or down through menus and parameter choices.
ENG FRONT PANEL OPERATION 13.1 THE MENU TREE The menu tree is shown on the next pages. It has all twelve of the possible main menu items listed along the left side. The branching sub-menus and parameters are connected in the order they are encountered in the menu system. To save the changes, firstly press Enter to get the Save function and then a second time to confirm Press Quit to escape the menu without saving and get the upper menu level Press Quit to get the upper menu level.
FRONT PANEL OPERATION |-- |-- |-- |-- |-- Limiter Module Setup Data Port 1 Setup Data Port 2 Setup Data Port 3 Setup System Information -- -- -- -- |-- Work Mode ENG -- Linear Mode (Manual) / Linear Full Range (Man) / | -- Lin Full Range (Man) | -- Clipper Mpx (Manual) |-- Port -- Port Enabled / Disabled |-- Baud Rate -- 2400 / 4800 / 9600 / 19200 / 38400 Baud rate |-- Link Mode -- Unidirectional / Bidirectional Auto / Bidirectional Req |-- Serial Port -- Port Enable
FRONT PANEL OPERATION 13.3 ENG HOW TO ASSIGN AN ID LABEL TO THE UNIT In the Settings panel there is an ID label for the connected target (not to be confused with the target name). It is editable both from the field pointed in figure (GENERAL SETTINGS PAGE) and from the Configuration Editor (in [GENERAL_SETTINGS] section) and shown on the front display. 25 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE CONNECTIONS FOR CONTROL ENG 14 SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE CONNECTIONS FOR CONTROL SERIAL-1: - Modem PSTN o GSM/GPRS Connection Firmware Upgrade Connection Smart Coder Remoter Connection Software UECP Stream MonoDirectional SERIAL-2: - Smart Coder Remoter Connection UECP Stream BiDirectional UECP Stream MonoDirectional Ascii Interface 26 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ENG 15 INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE 15.1 INTRODUCTION The Smart Coder Remoter is a powerful and reliable software running on Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional and XP, Vista, Seven platforms and specially conceived for equipment remote/direct programming and control. 15.2 SOFTWARE INSTALLATION PROCEDURE MAKE SURE A BARRACUDA REMOTER (Smart Coder Remoter) PROGRAM IS NOT ALREADY INSTALLED on Your computer.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ENG BARRACUDA REMOTER (Smart Coder Remoter) software runs on operative System that get a Monitor resolution fixed of 96 dpi (as default) and need some System font like: MS Serif, MS Sans Serif, Courier New, Small Fonts. All that needing are for reading correctly the single elements in the software.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE - “DPI Settings” - Check that “9 Segoe Point UI each 96 pixel / inch” is selected Flag “Use Windows Xp DPI resizing” Save pressing OK ENG 29 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ENG - Stop all the applications currently running on the Pc - Double click the setup.exe file in the ‘Pc Control Software’ folder – click Next - On Windows 2000 and XP, the customer information screen is displayed. In the fields provided type in your User Name and your Organization (optional) . Click on either the Anyone who uses the computer (all users) or Only for me radio button and click Next to continue - The Setup Type screen is displayed.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ENG 15.3 TWO DIFFERENT VIEW MODES The software is able to detect your screen resolution and automatically set the most suitable interface between the available ones: 1024x768 or 1280x800. 31 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
INSTALLATION AND USE OF PC CONTROL SOFTWARE ENG With 1280x800 resolution the navigation tree is on the left and looks like Windows’ Explorer. That is very useful for people who must work with many targets and can use a high resolution monitor. If you want you can switch between the two modes, thanks to the icon on the top right: The selected resolution is saved in the status file. 15.
BASIC CONNECTION TO A SINGLE CODER (DIRECT LINK) ENG 16 BASIC CONNECTION TO A SINGLE CODER (DIRECT LINK) The Direct Link is the most immediate and easy way to connect the Barracuda to the Host Pc. It requires a bi-directional communication channel between the Host Pc and the Barracuda coder. That channel may be SERIAL RS 232C type or via MODEM. This is for a real time monitoring of Barracuda current status (audio levels, RDS services, etc).
BASIC CONNECTION TO A SINGLE CODER (DIRECT LINK) ENG 16.1 DIRECT LINK through SERIAL RS232 Whenever connection to the Barracuda is achieved through Serial connection, choose ‘LOCAL RS 232’ in the communication channel configuration windows (ComChannel). Connection mode (‘Link Mode’) will be automatically set as ‘bidirectional’: You will need to set parameters associated to the Pc Serial Port to be used and to its speed.
BASIC CONNECTION TO A SINGLE CODER (DIRECT LINK) ENG 16.3 CONNECTING A DIAL-UP MODEM Whenever a remote control through dial-up modem is required, connect the modem to Serial Port 1, on the back of the unit. Please pay attention to the Port 1 configuration: its speed must be set to: - 38400 Baud for Pots dial-up modems - 9600 Baud for GSM modems. A ‘cross’ (NULL-MODEM) CABLE is needed for connection to the modem.
BASIC CONNECTION TO A SINGLE CODER (DIRECT LINK) ENG S0 Register represents the number of rings before Auto-Answer. It sets the number of the rings required before the modem automatically answers a call. Range: 0-255 rings. Setting this register to zero disables auto-answer mode. S0 = n, where n is the number of rings. It is advised S0=2 The S2 register (Escape Code Character) specifies the ASCII value of the character used in the escape code.
MANAGING ACCESS RIGHTS TO THE ENCODER ENG 17 MANAGING ACCESS RIGHTS TO THE ENCODER By accessing Access Rights panel from the menu tree, you may set RDS services granted / allowed on each Connection Port. 37 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
GETTING CONNECTED - THE ‘CONNECTION MANAGER’ ENG 18 GETTING CONNECTED - THE ‘CONNECTION MANAGER’ Once the configuration of Communication Channel is finished, You may run the physical connection to Barracuda. Double click the Barracuda icon You are going to connect to. The ‘Connection Manager’ window will open, that summarizes all connection settings and configuration.
HOW TO SETUP A CONNECTION PASSWORD ENG 19 HOW TO SETUP A CONNECTION PASSWORD When connecting to Barracuda in BIDIRECTIONAL mode, a System Password may be setup, in order to prevent access from not authorized users. System password must be setup from the Configuration Editor (see relevant Chapter). 39 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
HOW TO DISCONNECT FROM A BARRACUDA ENG 20 HOW TO DISCONNECT FROM A BARRACUDA To disconnect, double click on the icon of the unit to disconnect from or double click on the associated Com Channel icon. For example, with reference to the picture, double click on the Barracuda MLR 1 icon or the ComChannel 1 icon. A message will appear, asking to confirm disconnection. 40 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG 21 MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS Barracuda Coders can be managed / accessed either as single Units, or in groups. To manage Barracuda in Groups, You will need to assign each unit with a identification code, composed by a Device Number and a Group Number. This give the users the highest flexibility in controlling units individually or in groups, by sharing same commands among several units or forcing an individual unit with a specific address to execute a broadcast command.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG For example, the picture above shows a Satellite channel, which is typically uni-directional, two serial RS232 connections, one monodirectional (because connecting a group of equipment) and one bi-directional (linking just one unit). Up to 3 Users can be managed, each one accessing its own system tree, i.e. its own portion of system. That means, it is possible to give to each user different rights in accessing the targets and their configuration.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG Each Com Channel may be associated to Single Units (single targets) or Groups of Targets.Various ‘undo’ tools are also available for removal of inserted elements or system re-initialization. 43 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
ENG MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS 21.1.1 ADDITION OF A SINGLE CODER Having placed the communication channel, click right on ComChannel icon: a new pop-up menu will appear. To add a new single encoder, select Add New Encoder item and then select the Target version (Smart Coder) Every time a new Target or a new Group of Target is added, a special window (Target Edit Manager) opens automatically.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG 21.1.2 ADDITION OF A GROUP OF CODERS After having created a new communication channel icon (see ComChannel2 in the picture), click right on that icon: a new pop-up menu will appear. To add a group of encoders, select Add New Encoder Group item and then select the coder type. A new group of encoder is a group of Targets which share the same Group number and are of the same type (i.e. they can be programmed in the same way and at the same time).
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG 21.1.3 THE MNEMONIC IDENTIFIERS FOR SINGLE TARGETS OR GROUPS The fields ‘Target Name’ and ‘Group Name’ in the respective Target Edit Manager and Group Edit Manager windows may be loaded with a name or an equipment label (max 20 characters) in order to make coder identification easier. Typically, identifiers are geographic identifiers or they are associated to the name of the Network or to the Frequency/channel used.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG 21.1.4 SYSTEM TREE – EDITING TOOLS The menu items displayed whenever right clicking on the system Tree offer some helpful editing tools: Removes the last coder, or last group of coders, inserted Removes the selected coder or group of coders Removes the selected Communication Channel Removes the whole System Tree and let You start again from scratch.
MANAGING BARRACUDA in GROUPS ENG 21.2 SECOND STEP: THE ‘WORK MODE’ Once the system tree has been created in ‘EDIT MODE’, click CLOSE PANEL button. The User will be asked whether to save or discard modifications done to the System Tree. Click Yes. Click Open Panel button: User 1 Navigation Panel will open. Click WORK MODE button.
ENG THE ‘CONFIGURATION EDITOR’: WHAT IS AND HOW TO USE IT 22 THE ‘CONFIGURATION EDITOR’: WHAT IS AND HOW TO USE IT The Configuration Editor makes viewing or changing the Barracuda current settings easier, as it allows you to edit a configuration file, through an easy-to-use TEXT ONLY interface like Windows "Notepad". Complicated system parameter settings / changes can be simply accomplished in a ‘written’ mode, through commands/values provided in a textual (ASCII) way.
THE ‘CONFIGURATION EDITOR’: WHAT IS AND HOW TO USE IT ENG 22.1 EDITOR TOOLS Starting the Configuration Editor opens up the Editor window. The buttons along the upper side select some typical file management options. NEW command: It will display a default Configuration File, accordingly to the chosen Target. OPEN command. It will open a window showing all the available configuration files (with extension tcf - target configuration file).
ENG THE ‘CONFIGURATION EDITOR’: WHAT IS AND HOW TO USE IT 22.2 TYPICAL IMPORT / EXPORT TASKS As explained, Configuration Editor allows You to import (download) current configuration from the Target in order to easily edit/modify it. Once the editing task is accomplished, the new configuration file can be easily exported to the file in order to make it effective. This is the procedure to follow.
STEREO GENERATOR – INPUT CHANGEOVER ENG 23 STEREO GENERATOR – INPUT CHANGEOVER 23.1 THE MPX SPECTRUM We assume MPX signal is composed by three major components: • Audio Signal (L and R channels) • Stereo Pilot tone (19Khz) • Radio Data System signal (57Khz) The stereo encoding process modulates (double side-band suppressed carrier) the L-R or stereo difference signal onto a 38kHz sub carrier. Its side-bands will extend by +/- 15kHz. At the top end this will be 53kHz.
STEREO GENERATOR – INPUT CHANGEOVER ENG 23.2 AVAILABLE INPUTS Barracuda manages 3 Input sources: • a stereo Analog audio pair • a stereo Digital audio pair • an input for External MPX (Available on Split Option) Selection between sources may be achieved • Manually • By contact closure (GPI input). 23.
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES ENG 24 STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES 24.1 INPUT AUDIO LEVEL CONTROL Input level control stage is actually based on two sub-controls: sensitivity adjustment and ‘fine’ tuning, independent for channels Left and Right. Right Gain (applies to either analog or digital sources). It may adjusted in + /- 12 dB range with 0.1 dB step. Default: 0 dB. Left Gain (applies to either analog or digital sources). It may adjusted in + /- 12 dB range with 0.1 dB step.
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES ENG 24.3 SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE AUDIO WORKING MODES 24.3.1 INTRODUCTION 1 automatic modes plus 2 manual working modes are available. In automatic modes, Barracuda automatically adjusts audio input levels (L/R gains) and AGC level in order to ‘size’ the portion of audio signal clipped by MPX Clipper (see ‘A’ amplitude portion in the picture here below, exceeding clipper trimming amplitude) and thus get control over resultant density of aired MPX signal.
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES MODE Linear Mode TYPE ENG DESCRIPTION / NOTES Manual Barracuda’ behaviour is totally similar to that of an analog, traditional stereo encoder. There is no MPX clipper intervention. Max output deviation is 100 kHz. Input headroom around 10 dB. Linear Full Range Manual MPX Clipper Manual Barracuda’ behaviour is totally similar to that of an analog, traditional stereo encoder. There is no MPX clipper intervention. There is no deviation limit.
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES ENG The Sensitivity Level (Analog or Digital) parameter sets the gain for both channels. After adjustment, peak indication hitting the Nominal Input reference point on the display or a little higher (see picture here below) is proper. This corresponds to 10 dB system headroom.
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES ENG 24.4.2 LINEAR – FULL RANGE If a better headroom / input dynamic range (than the Linear Mode) is required, LINEAR-FULL RANGE input mode is provided. No clipping and no deviation limit is applied to signal processing in this case. Input headroom ranges up to 20 dB and an overall MPX level control is not provided. Nominal input level reference is nearer to the left margin than in the Linear Mode – MANUAL .
STEREO GENERATOR –LEVEL AND WORKING MODES 4) ENG Enable normal audio processing on the audio processor. Depending on the input level and on the audio material contents, audio peak will range between 1 and 8 segments on the meter reference scale. This peak increase on dynamic conditions is due to overshoot of input digital filter.
STEREO GENERATOR – MPX OUTPUT SIGNAL ENG 25 STEREO GENERATOR – MPX OUTPUT SIGNAL 25.1 CONFIGURATION OF THE OUTPUT: NORMAL, PEAK TONE Output Mode : it sets the Barracuda operating mode: The Normal Operation refers to the regular operating status, with all features available. In the Peak Tone Reference mode, the Barracuda outputs a reference tone consisting of a 500 Hz / 0 dBm sinusoidal signal. This tone corresponds to the maximum frequency deviation.
STEREO GENERATOR – MPX OUTPUT SIGNAL ENG 25.3 MPX SIGNAL CALIBRATION – THE POST CLIPPER GAIN The output MPX Composite signal is composed by: • RDS signal (whenever present) • Audio components (L+R and L-R spectrums) • Pilot 19 kHz RDS and PILOT are fixed (invariable) parts in the MPX signal, while Audio Components are variable ones.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR – GENERAL SETUP ENG 26 RDS / RBDS GENERATOR – GENERAL SETUP All info provided on this Chapter applies to both RDS and RBDS generation, unless differently noticed. RBDS operation on the Barracuda is achieved by installing the Smart Coder Remoter control software in its RBDS version. The RDS controls related to phase and levels are available from the Front Panel, while any other configuration about texts, RDS data, etc is achievable from Smart Coder Remoter as well as from the UECP.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR – GENERAL SETUP ENG 26.2 GENERAL RDS / RBDS ENABLING Open ‘RDS SETTINGS’ windows from the Main three: In the relevant panel, check ‘Rds On’ option to enable RDS generation. Tick the “Add generated Rds to Auxiliary Mpx’ option to enable the RDS generation on the Barracuda while an external Stereo Composite MPX signal is routed to the output. 26.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR – GENERAL SETUP -37.5 dB -31.5 dB -28.0 dB -25.5 dB -23.5 dB -21.9 dB ENG D=1.0 KHz D=2.0 KHz D=3.0 KHz D=4.0 KHz D=5.0 KHz D=6.0 KHz 64 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
RDS / RBDS GENERATOR – GENERAL SETUP ENG 26.4 UECP OR NOT-UECP PROGRAMMING MODE The Extended / not UECP mode carries a full-set of ‘customized’ features / controls wich represent a valuable ‘benefit’ of the Barracuda. In the following pages one describes the ‘extended’ mode, as it contains the UECP-compliant mode, too. 26.5 CHARACTER TABLES (FOR RT, PS, PTYN SERVICES) The Barracuda allows the user to select (with ref to CENELEC Annex E.1,E.2,E.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27 THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS Double click the ‘Static RDS’ icon: 27.1 SYNCHRONIZE INTERNAL CLOCK AND ENABLE ‘CT’ SERVICE Barracuda features an internal clock and calendar, that are used as reference either for PS, RT e PTY/PIN service scheduling, or for CT (Clock Time) service. Real Time Clock panel allows the user to adjust the Target current time and date. If enabled (see CT On/Off button), this RDS feature can allow every receiver to automatically set its internal clock.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.2 DATASET 1 CONFIGURATION (THE ONLY DATASET AVAILABLE) 27.3 INTRODUCTION General Purpose DataSet 1 menu comprises all the settings related to the Main network (which is braodcasting the DataSet) and to up to 10 EON (Enhanced Other Networks). It is available also another page (Services) for enabling/configuration of RDS services supported in the DataSet 27.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG In the event You would like to broadcast additional services to those included in the 0A Group, You will need to broadcast a Group sequence. That sequence may be generated manually with DragAndDrop catching the correspondenting number gropu in “Groups” and dragging the number in “Group Sequence” 27.5 EON / PSN SERVICES IN THE DATASET 1 The PSN (Program Service Number) List represents the reference List for all UECP index. It allows to associate the various PSN (i.e.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.6 PI - PROGRAM IDENTIFIER Main Network Panel contains all the settings related to the RDS signal that is currently being transmitted. A double click on Main Network icon will disclose a subtree providing the following panels: Basic Services, Alternative Frequencies, Rt (Radio Text) Edit, PinPtyEdit, PsnEdit, Scheduler. Access the BasicServices page 27.6.
ENG THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS 27.7 DI -DECODER IDENTIFICATIONDI DECODER IDENTIFICATION this pull-down menu allows you to identify the kind of modulation (Stereo, Mono, etc). Stereo modulation is assigned to STEREO, STATIC PTY, while mono is MONO, STATIC PTY. Click OK/Send to confirm or Esc to quit without saving. 27.8 ‘LINKAGE’ INFORMATION (LA, EG, ILS, LSN) They are accessibile in the ‘Basic Services’ panel.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG TA and M/S ‘status may be: - Fixed (enabled / disabled) - Associated to relevant UECP command - Associated to the status of one of 5 inputs on the Opto Input port - Associated to the impulsive commands (100 ms duration) applied to inputs 4 and 5 on the Opto Input port M/S - Music/Speech is a two-state signal to provide information on whether music or speech is being broadcast.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.10 SLOW LABELING CODES Slow Labeling Codes, as broadcast on 1A Group, are typed in Slow Labeling Codes in the Basic Services page. 72 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.11 ALTERNATIVE FREQUENCIES The list(s) of Alternative Frequencies (AF) give information on the various transmitters broadcasting the same programme in the same or adjacent reception areas.This facility is particularly useful in the case of car and portable radios. NOTE: Overall 500 alternative frequencies max can be entered for each DataSet.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.12 HOW TO COMPOSE AF LISTS First loading method (Drag & Drop) Select the AF from the available frequencies in the left window by clicking left it and drag & drop it into the AF list. Release the mouse left button to ‘drop’ the frequency into the desired AF list. Second loading method (preselected AF list) Highlight the AF list to be loaded by clicking on it. The selected column will turn red with a bright tone.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG A Waring message is showed to remind that you are deleting ONLY in the DataBase Manager, so if you need to send information right now you have to Press SEND. 75 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.13 AF METHODS A AND B There are two ways to transmit lists of alternative frequencies: Method A and Method B. In both cases the lists should include only those frequencies for the nearest transmitters and repeaters (with overlapping coverage areas). Generally speaking, Method A is used when the list contains no more than 25 frequencies, and Method B when the list is longer (for a maximum of 24 lists).
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG METHOD B As mentioned earlier, Method B is used with high numbers of alternative frequencies and/or when the transmitter also has frequencies that broadcast different radio program at various times of day (splitting, local programming, etc.). In the latter instance, the mobile receiver should check whether the AF is broadcasting the same content before selecting another frequency.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.14 RADIOTEXT PANEL Once You have selected the Radio Text panel, You can be enter up to 16 Radio Text messages, each one having up to 64 characters (spaces included). This refers to text transmissions, primarily addressed to consumer home receivers, which would be equipped with suitable display facilities. This feature can be used to display cyclic messages, too. NOTE: only the MAIN RT field can be programmed accordingly to the UECP protocol.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.15 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 should enable receivers and recorders designed to make use of this feature to respond to the particular programme item(s) that the user has preselected. Use is made of the scheduled programme time, to which is added the day of the month in order to avoid ambiguity.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG Please, remind to enable PTY and PTYN groups in the Main RDS SERVICE panel The group number 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 PROGRAM TYPE No program type o indef. News Current affairs Information Sport Education Drama Culture Science Varied Pop Music Rock Music M.O.R.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.16 PROGRAM SERVICE NAME (PSN) PSN - Program Service Name is a text consisting of not more than 8 alphanumeric characters which is displayed by RDS receivers in order to inform the listener what programme service is being broadcast by the station to which the receiver is tuned. An example for a PS name is "Radio 21" or “RAI” then “ISORADIO” then “FM_103.3” then “RADIO”. The Programme Service Name is not intended to be used for automatic search tuning.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG 27.17 VARIABLE PS - BASIC OPERATION Here below are provided some basic tools for the management of variable PS. For an advanced PS scheduling / programming please refer to Scheduler panel (next paragraph). 27.17.1 PS SEQUENCES UECP Extended mode of Barracuda allows You to easily create and broadcast sequences composed by up to 60 PS Names. For each PS, You can also set its ‘display speed’ (related to the time it will last on the receiver display).
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS 27.17.2 ENG THE SCHEDULER Scheduler enables you to organize RDS broadcast on a ‘round the clock’ daily, weekly, and monthly basis. You use Scheduler to make Barracuda broadcasting / changing specific RDS features (PS, PTY/PIN) at specific times and dates. The changes to a schedule are immediately saved and implemented. Your scheduling work goes into effect (i.e. ‘on air’) in max 1 minute.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG This section provides you with a general working knowledge of the Scheduler features and a step-by-step programming instructions. In particular, it describes how to insert the items (PS Names, etc) that you have already created into blank event slots (raws) in the Schedule Table. To open Scheduler, click the Scheduler icon on the Navigation tree.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS 27.17.3 ENG GETTING STARTED Make sure that the clock shows the current time correctly. Highlight the event to be programmed by clicking on the ‘yellow’ field of Event raws: the selected event will be loaded in the Edit Bar, at the bottom of the panel. Picture shows Event 2 selection. 27.17.4 SELECTING AN ITEM TYPE In this step, select the type of event(s) to be executed from the list of available items (PS, PTY/PIN,).
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS 27.17.6 ENG SETUP THE SCHEDULE TIME AND DATES The Calendar zone allows You to set the date and the time the scheduler should execute the event(s). Selecting the drop down arrow next to the date fields will display specific Hour/Minute/Day/Month/Year menu. The date or time interval may be picked from this menu. Barracuda scheduler operates on a time-matching basis. It means, at the beginning of every ‘minute’ (i.e.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG EXAMPLE 6 The PSN 02 scheduled in the example here above (Event 1), will stay active as follows: 07:10 to 07:19 09:10 to 09:19 11:10 to 11:19 08:10 to 08:19 10:10 to 10:19 12:10 to 12:19 EXAMPLE 7 The PSN 04 scheduled in the example here above (Event 1), will stay active only 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.
ENG THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ALL event is launched regardless of clock date (month) The YEAR Menu provides the following options Single Year event is launched any time clock date (year) matches the chosen one ALL event is launched regardless of clock date (year) WEEK day option Event is launched on every selected week day (Year, Month and Day Menu are in this case automatically disabled) 27.17.
ENG THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS We highly suggest to schedule Event with the lowest priority as DEFAULT events EXAMPLE 8 Event 1: PS Name # 00 (Main PS) is the default PS (i.e.: it is broadcast whenever no other PS are scheduled) Event 2: PS Name # 01 is scheduled on all days, from 07.00 am to 12.59 pm. It will replace PSN 00 within this time interval. Event 3: PS Name # 02 is scheduled just for monday from 10.00 am to 11.59 am.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS ENG EXAMPLE 10 (Use of PSN Stopped) A very advisable PS programming should include fixed PSN (i.e. 8 characters) for the most of the time (90 %) and include dynamic PS sequences starting just every few minutes (f.i. every 5 minutes). In order to schedule such a programming, PSN Editor panel should resemble the picture here below. Note that last PSN speed (of BBC ONE) is set to ‘Stopped’ as it is that PSN which should be displayed a long time.
THE ‘STATIC’ RDS / RBDS 27.18 ENG CONFIGURING EON NETWORKS IN THE DATASET The Enhanced Other Network feature can be used to update the information stored in a receiver about programme services other than the one received. Alternative frequencies, the PS name, Traffic Programme and TrafficAnnouncement identification as well as Programme Type and Programme Item Number information can be transmitted for each other service.
TECHNICAL SPEC ENG 28 TECHNICAL SPEC BARRACUDA AVAILABLE VERSIONS AND OPTIONS BARRACUDA Digital MPX and RDS/RBDS Encoder (Smart Coder) Options Description Barracuda-DG-IN Digital Audio Input – AES/EBU and TOS-LINK Barracuda-Split Split Circuit option GENERAL GENERAL Dimensions Weight ~ AC Rate Power consumption Type of power supply AC connector Operating temp. range 1 rack unit, 352 x 483 x 44 mm around 4.
TECHNICAL SPEC AUX IN (1 AND 2) Connector Type Pass-through Level Frequency response Distortion Input Impedance Purpose SYNC-OUT Connector Type Purpose ENG floating BNC, EMI suppressed -40dB ÷ + 20 dB trimmer adj. max 24 Vpp input 30 Hz ÷ 80 KHz +/- 0.1 dB < 0.03 % > 10 Kohm MPX and SCA (RDS) Inputs – Injection of a MPX Signal Routed directly to Mpx Out (Split Option) Sync Out phase error floating BNC, EMI suppressed TTL-level (5Vpp) 19 kHz Pilot Ref. Out for synchronizing external RDS coders.
TECHNICAL SPEC WORK Mode ENG Linear Mode (Manual) Linear – Full Range (Manual) Clipper MPX (Manual) 94 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
ENG TECHNICAL SPEC MPX (STEREO) GENERATOR Signal processing is performed by phase linear filters / all measurements referenced to 100% modulation unless otherwise noted. Barracuda version only. Pilot Frequency Pilot Injection Pilot Stability: Pilot Phase Pilot distortion Pilot distortion + Noise S/N Composite out THD Stereo Separation Linear Crosstalk: Composite Clip Drive: Digital filtering / band 57 kHz (RDS/RBDS) Protection Crosstalk Main to Sub / Sub to Main 38KHz suppress.
TECHNICAL SPEC ENG RDS PROGRAMMING RDS Command formats Static services supported fully compliant to UECP Forum document SPB 490 (Version 6.
WARRANTY ENG SOFTWARE TOOLS (included in the package) SMART CODER REMOTER For Microsoft Windows 2000 sp4 / Windows XP sp3. Windows Vista and Windows Seven. For complete setup, management and control of coders in groups or individually. Capability for bidirectional and Unidirectional (one-way) links. There is no limit in the number of units which can be controlled from a single software license.
APPENDIX A – CONNECTOR PINOUT ENG 30 APPENDIX A – CONNECTOR PINOUT 30.1 RS232 CONNECTION AND PINOUT PORT 1 2 3 4 5 Tx Rx DTR GND PORT 2,3,4 2 3 4 5 Tx Rx / GND RS 232 Male RS 232 Female 2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5 Pc connection require standard serial cables, Pin-To-Pin type, that is ‘not cross’. For a correct operation, connections length must not exceed the length of 20 meters.
APPENDIX A – CONNECTOR PINOUT ENG 30.
APPENDIX A – CONNECTOR PINOUT ENG 30.3.1 EXAMPLE OF ACTIVATION OF INPUT 1 BY CLEAN CONTACT INTERNAL EXTERNAL +12V 1K2 Ohm 8 8 15 15 9 9 1 1 DB-15p FEMALE Input 5 Input 4 Input 3 Input 2 DB-15p MALE Input 1 To activate INPUT 1 on the Opto INPUT interface, permamently shortcut pin 9 and 1. The external switch will be connected across pins 15 and 6. 30.3.
ENG 30.4 TIME SYNC IN BARRACUDA With Barracuda it is possible to set the internal clock time in 1 way. Using UECP Command. The status monitor for Time Sync is showed in the bottom bar of Smart Coder Remoter and SNMP. Using UECP: It’s possible to use UECP for keep in sync Barracuda’s Time.
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX ENG 31 APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX General Rules: •From first ';' symbol (semicolon) to the line end the following text is considered a commentary. •The symbol '=' (equals) assigns a single value (or a list of values) to the related command. •The items of a data list are separated by ',' (comma) symbol. •A non predefined alphanumeric string containing blank spaces must be typed between inverted commas (normally, blank spaces are syntax separators).
ENG APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX [MPX_SETTINGS] ; Start of Mpx setup logical group MPX_LEVEL={ -9.0dBm , -8.9dBm , ... , +0.0dBm , ... , +14.9dBm , +15.0dBm } PILOT_LEVEL={ Off , -25.0dB , -24.9dB , ... , -20.0dB , ... , -15.6dB , -15.5dB } PILOT_PHASE={-12dDeg, -11Deg , ... , +0Deg , ... , +11Deg , +12Deg} POST_CLIPPER_GAIN={ -6.0dB , -5.9dB , ... , +0.0dB , ... , +5.9dB , +6.
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX ENG ; 3E PTYN ; ; for each Port. ; ; NOTE: For current port disable ALL services is not allowed. ; User can specify service ID (separated by comma) or ; simply type NONE or ALL for a global Enable/Disable. ; ; *** Current Port: Port 1 *** [RDS_SETTINGS] ; Start of RDS setup logical group RDS_ON_OFF={ Off, On } ADD_RDS_TO_AUX_MPX={ Off, On } RDS_LEVEL={Off , -43.9dB, -43.8dB , .. , -31.5dB, .. , -20.1dB , -20.0dB } RDS_LEVEL={0.000Vpp , 0.005Vpp , 0.010Vpp, ..
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX ENG GROUP_14A_VARIANTS_SEQUENCE={ 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 } 5 PSN_LIST={ 1st PSN , 2nd PSN , ...
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX ENG AF_64={87.6 , 87.7 , ... , 107.9 , List_End }, { ... }, { ... } , ... [END_ALTERNATIVE_FREQUENCIES] [RADIOTEXT] 8 ; ------------A/B-Loops-Text-(Max 64 chars)-RADIOTEXT_0= OFF, 00, "RADIOTEXT MESSAGE STRING MAX 64 CHARS" . . . . . . . . RADIOTEXT_15= OFF, 00, "RADIOTEXT MESSAGE STRING MAX 64 CHARS" [END_RADIOTEXT] [PIN_PTY] ; ; ; ; = = = = ; "PTYN MSG" { Today , 1 , ... , 31 } {0 , ... , 23 } {1 , ...
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX ENG ; -----------PsScrolling_Name---------Speed-----------PS_SCROLL_0="Ps Scrolling Message", { Stopped , Slowest , Slow , Normal , Fast , Fastest} . . . . . . . . PS_SCROLL_3="Ps Scrolling Message", { Stopped , Slowest , Slow , Normal , Fast , Fastest} [END_PROGRAM_SERVICE_SCROLLING] [EVENT_SCHEDULER] 12 ; ; ; = { None, PS , PTY/PIN , PS_SCR } = { 0 , ... , 59 } = { 1 , ... , 59 } ; = { 0 , ...
APPENDIX B - CONFIGURATION EDITOR SYNTAX EON_TRAFFIC_ANNOUNCEMENT={ Disabled , Enabled , Positive_Input_1 Positive_Input_3 , Positive_Input_4 , Negative_Input_1 , Negative_Input_2 , Negative_Input_4 , Negative_Input_5 , Negative_Input_Pulse } EON_PIN_DAY= { 1 , ... , 31 } EON_PIN_HOUR={ 0 , ... , 23 } EON_PIN_MINUTE={ 0 , ...
APPENDIX C – MPX BOARD JUMPER SETTINGS ENG 32 APPENDIX C – MPX BOARD JUMPER SETTINGS The following picture shows factory jumper position on MPX output card. 32.1 JUMPERS LEGEND JP1 Description Factory Preset It bypass the SPLIT relay The Jumper is present whenever the SPLIT option is NOT installed 109 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
APPENDIX C – MPX BOARD JUMPER SETTINGS ENG 32.2 MPX CARD – BLOCK DIAGRAM WITH DEFAULT JUMPER POSITIONS SYNC OUT SYNC OUT MPX+RDS SPLIT + OUT-1 VR3 RL1 OUT-2 JP4 * AUX-1 MPX VR2 AUX-2 RDS VR1 * INSTALLED WITH THE ‘SPLIT’ VERSION ONLY 110 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
APPENDIX D – AUDIO INPUT CARD SETTINGS ENG 33 APPENDIX D – AUDIO INPUT CARD SETTINGS 33.1 ANALOG INPUT IMPEDANCE The input impedante may be altered to 600Ohm, in place of default 10kOhm, by moving the Jumpers J1 e J2 placed behind the XLR connectors, on the audio input board (see figure). X5 INPUT INPEDANCE 600 OHM J1-J2 INPUT INPEDANCE 10K OHM 111 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
APPENDIX E – FIRMWARE UPGRADE PROCEDURE ENG 34 APPENDIX E – FIRMWARE UPGRADE PROCEDURE The Barracuda comes from the factory with the most recent firmware installed just prior to shipping. When required, the firmware can be updated with the latest available version. In order to upgrade the processor, please follow this procedure. FW Upgrade can be performed on Windows environment.
APPENDIX E – FIRMWARE UPGRADE PROCEDURE ENG D. Connect the Barracuda SERIAL port 1 to that of the Host PC. Please insert (or remove) the serial connector only with processor turned off. A regular (i.e. not crossed) cable is required. E. Turn the unit on. F. Make sure that on the front panel the LCD display is empty. 113 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
APPENDIX E – FIRMWARE UPGRADE PROCEDURE ENG 2) PC OPERATION A. B. C. Close all opened applications on the PC. Access the Fw UpGrades folder Double click the file associated to the desired upgrade: NOTE: to make sure of current version of Yr Barracuda, please enter the Firmware Version page from the System Information menu. The following screen will be displayed: D. E. Select the PC serial port on the screen Click Connect button. F.
ENG APPENDIX F – SIDECHAIN / LOOPTHROUGH CONNECTION MODES 35 APPENDIX F – SIDECHAIN / LOOPTHROUGH CONNECTION MODES The MPX+RDS Encoder Barracuda can be connected to the exciter and to the RDS generator / audio processor in two different modes: Sidechain and Loop-Through. The first one is highly recommended, as the composite / MPX is better preserved and program transmission will be not interrupted even in the event of encoder failure. 35.
ENG APPENDIX F – SIDECHAIN / LOOPTHROUGH CONNECTION MODES MPX + RDS (TX In) Transmitter MPX+RDS Out BARRACUDA Only as RDS Coder AUX1-MPX MPX Out MPX Encoder (ie TigerShark-R, Shark,Falcon Five) Analogic INPUT coming from MAIN OUT External Synch MUST be enabled from the control panel menu or from the Pc control software MPX pilot suitable level: minimum 100 mVpp, max 1,9 Vpp 19 kHz Sync tolerance : +/- 5Hz to lock; +/- 15 Hz to unlock An automatic switchover to internal oscillator in case of absenc
APPENDIX F – SIDECHAIN / LOOPTHROUGH CONNECTION MODES ENG Correct synchronization will cause MPX LED ON in the front panel. 117 Axel Technology srl www.axeltechnology.
ENG LOOP-THROUGH MODE In the loop-through mode, the output of the stereo generator is directly cabled at the AUX 1 input of RDS encoder. The RDS output of the encoder will be then connected to the normal composite/Mpx input of the FM exciter. As noticed, this configuration is NOT recommended, as the composite / MPX is passing through the RDS encoder and program transmission will be interrupted in the event of RDS encoder failure. This configuration doesn’t need to alter the encoder factory preset.
