XStudio 3 © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
XStudio 3 © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. No parts of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems - without the written permission of the publisher. Products that are referred to in this document may be either trademarks and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners.
Contents 3 Table of Contents Part I Welcome to XStudio! 8 1 Key Features................................................................................................................................... 9 2 What's New ................................................................................................................................... in XStudio 11 3 Warranty & License ..........................................................................................................................
XStudio 3 Cart Length ......................................................................................................................................................... Checking 95 Part V Reference 98 1 Automation ................................................................................................................................... Database Maintenance 98 Common Table ....................................................................................................................
Contents 5 Properties Common .......................................................................................................................................................... to All Tasks 193 Banner Message .......................................................................................................................................................... Task 197 Remap Input.......................................................................................................................
XStudio 3 XStudio Fails .......................................................................................................................................................... to Connect to XEngine 281 XStudio Fails .......................................................................................................................................................... to Connect to DCS or Maestro 281 4 Remote Database ...................................................................................
Welcome to XStudio! Part I
XStudio 3 XStudio is an easy-to-use, powerful system featuring multi-channel, multi-stream playback, multiple user-selected operating modes, audio switcher control and user-defined actions for automatic task execution. Tasks can be initiated from the broadcast log, in response to an audio switcher relay or from the XStudio scheduled events table, providing maximum flexibility in automation control.
Welcome to XStudio! 9 Portions copyright © Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change without notice. The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of those agreements.
XStudio 3 External device control via RS-232 interface. Send user-defined control data to an external device. Automated Tasks, including switcher updates, start/stop audio playback, set the clock, set operating mode, relay outputs, precision timers and more. Tasks are grouped together as action lists and can be nested for maximum flexibility. Each task is validated for mode of operation, day and time of day for conditional execution, including time ranges and hour parts.
Welcome to XStudio! 1.2 11 What's New in XStudio Here are the latest changes, enhancements and corrections to XStudio by version number and date. For information on less-recent changes and enhancements, see the Revision History topic. Version 3.4.0.450 - 02/05/2015 1. Enhancement. A new start-up option, Start Audio Engine, has been added. If enabled, XStudio will check to see if XEngine is running at start-up and if not, offer to start XEngine. 2. Change.
1.3 XStudio 3 Warranty & License Agreement PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT CAREFULLY. BY INSTALLING AND USING THE SOFTWARE, YOU ARE AGREEING TO BECOME BOUND BY THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THE AGREEMENT, PLEASE DO NOT INSTALL OR USE THE SOFTWARE. This is a legal agreement between you and C-R Media. This Agreement states the terms and conditions upon which C-R Media offers to license the software.
Welcome to XStudio! 13 C-R Media does not warrant that the functions contained in the Software will meet your requirements or that the operation of the Software will be uninterrupted or error-free. EXCEPT AS STATED ABOVE IN THIS AGREEMENT, THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED AS-IS WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
XStudio 3 request, C-R Media shall determine whether you require such information for a legitimate purpose and, if so, C-R Media will provide such information to you within a reasonable time and on reasonable conditions. Limited Warranty.
System Requirements & Installation Part II
XStudio 3 In order to use XStudio successfully, certain hardware and Windows operating system requirements must be met. You must also install the XStudio software on the PC, using an installation program. This section documents the system requirements for XStudio and covers the process of installing, updating and removing the XStudio software. 2.
System Requirements & Installation 17 logs, you will need both read and write access to save log files. For audio files, you need only have read rights unless you wish to edit cart header information, which requires read and write privileges. 2.2 Installing XStudio The XStudio installation program provides step-by-step instructions on every screen displayed during the installation. Follow the instructions on each screen to install XStudio.
XStudio 3 for any input required and notified if the update task could not be completed successfully. 4. When updating XStudio, the installation program will typically offer the option of backing up the existing program and support files before performing the actual update. Special Note on Updating XStudio: When updating the software, be aware that if you deselect a set of files or an option for shortcuts that were a part of the original installation, the files and/or shortcuts are not removed.
Configuring XStudio Part III
XStudio 3 In order to use XStudio, the application needs to know about the station(s) logs which you will be using for playback, the location of the audio files to be played, and which available audio channel (audio output) will be associated with each displayed playback deck, among other things. In the preferences area, you define stations, their call letters and location of the logs. The path to the audio files is defined, as are the audio channel-to-deck mappings.
Configuring XStudio 21 Program Start Options This group of properties controls the behavior of XStudio when starting up. Property Description Mode at Startup When XStudio starts, the mode selected here will be the initial operating mode of the system. You might view this setting as the "default operating mode". For more information on XStudio operating modes, refer to the topic on Operating Modes. The default value for this property is Emergency mode.
XStudio 3 Property Description Emergency Action If XStudio is used as an emergency backup system for a DCS or Maestro, or you want to implement a special way of handling emergencies when XStudio is the primary on-air delivery system, you can assign an Action that will be performed in an emergency. If an Action is selected for this field, that Action will be performed when the "Emergency Relay" is triggered.
Configuring XStudio 23 input relay map. If you change switchers, be sure the newly-selected device is connected to the PC on the correct COM port. External Control Port Properties If you need to control an external device with serial data, you can optionally enable this feature set. This set of properties enables external control usage and allows you to assign a COM port and baud rate to be used. The External Control Port is used in conjunction with the Send Control Command task.
XStudio 3 Database properties (expanded view) There are two sets of properties in the database group, one for implementing connection to a remote database server and one for enabling access to the default local database controlled by XStudio. By nature, these two sets of properties are mutually exclusive - if you are using a remote database, local administration properties are ignored and vice versa.
Configuring XStudio Property 25 REQ Description sending it to XStudio, thus reducing the required LAN bandwidth. However, this is at some cost as the database server must go through the extra step of compressing before sending the information and XStudio must decompress the data when it is received. If you wish to implement data compression, select one of the compression options from the drop-down list that appears when editing the property.
XStudio 3 Property Description Daily Event Log Count The default is to keep daily event logs around for 14 days. Use the spin-edit control that appears when you begin editing the property to increase or decrease the number of days you wish to keep daily event logs. The minimum number of days is 7, the maximum number is 62. Event Log Detail Level The default detail level is "Normal".
Configuring XStudio 3.2 27 Setting up Stations The Stations tab is used to create and maintain a list of stations for which XStudio will be used. For each defined station, you will provide a name for identification purposes, the station's call letters, station number (log identification), and the path where the station's logs are located. Optionally, you can designate an external inventory file (CMINV??.
XStudio 3 Creating a new station There are several fields of information that need to be filled in for a station, as detailed in the station properties list. Items with a check mark in the REQ column require user entry, while unchecked items have default values which can optionally be changed. Property REQ Description Station Name Identifies the station you are configuring and is used within XStudio only. The name can be anything you wish, up to 30 characters in length.
Configuring XStudio Property 29 REQ Description Log Path The drive and folder where logs for this station are stored. UNC paths should be used if the log location is a server or PC other than the machine running XStudio. If you are running XStudio on Windows 7, avoid using mapped network drives.
XStudio 3 containing the station information. If you already have some stations defined in XStudio, you have the option to replace them with the imported information or to append the imported information to the existing station information. No duplicate checking is done when importing station information into existing station information using the option to append station records. You should check for duplicates when the import process has completed and remove any duplicates.
Configuring XStudio 31 assigned default station information is used for loading the current day’s log (if enabled) and creating audit records, until such time as the station is changed, typically by loading a log for a different station. While setting a default station is not required, if no default station is assigned XStudio will not load a log or perform other tasks that are station-specific when starting up.
3.3 XStudio 3 Audio Properties The Audio Properties tab includes several groups of settings related to audio handling, including location of audio files, XStudio inventory list generation and maintenance, audio channel-to-deck mapping, remote starts and audio engine communication parameters.
Configuring XStudio Property 33 REQ Description XEngine, then this path must be entered. If the host audio engine is a DCS or Maestro, this field can be left blank. If you are running XStudio on Windows 7, avoid using mapped network drives. Backup Audio Path If XEngine is the host audio engine, you can optionally define a backup audio folder location.
XStudio 3 Property Description Limit Displayed Inventory As a default, XStudio will create an inventory list for its own use that includes all audio found in the Audio Path. Audio files used by XStudio contain distribution information referred to as "node numbers" or "station distribution". There may be as many as 64 different "work stations" (nodes) that are allowed to use a given audio file.
Configuring XStudio 35 If you are connecting to a DCS or Maestro, playback channel 1 on the host unit will be used for log playback and channels 2 and 3 map to the DCS or Maestro channels of the same number, as applicable. Refer to the topic on Using XStudio with DCS or Maestro for more information. Map each XStudio playback deck using the drop-down list of available audio outputs. If a PC has a single sound card with a single audio output available, there will usually be two items in the list.
XStudio 3 Property REQ Description configuration dialog or is configured by drag and drop from the log or inventory, the default deck selected here is assigned as the playback deck. The default value for this property is Deck 1. Remote Starts If the PC running XStudio is equipped with a game port, you can wire up remote starts to the game port and enable them for use with XStudio. See the Remote Start Interface topic for wiring specifics.
Configuring XStudio Property 37 Description second). Audio Engine Properties XStudio uses TCP/IP to communicate with the host audio engine, either XEngine or a DCS or Maestro host. In the latter case, rcServer software is used to convert the TCP/IP data to serial data that the DCS or Maestro can understand and act upon. See the topic on Using XStudio with DCS or Maestro for additional information.
XStudio 3 Property REQ Description category will be faded down at Aux Mark during playback. Music fade applies to all playback channels (decks). Fade Rate If music fade is enabled, this value determines how quickly the audio is faded. The default value is 1000, the maximum value is 32000. The higher the value, the quicker the audio fade. Connection Properties IP Address The IP address of the host audio engine. The default value is: 127.0.0.
Configuring XStudio 3.4 39 Cart Categories Cart Categories are used to define audio categories for filtering inventory lists and to create log color schemes (background and text) that are used in the log display. The initial display of the Cart Categories page shows a table of defined categories, if any, and a data navigator bar which can be used to add, edit and delete cart categories. You can have as many categories as you wish with multiple cart masks in each category.
XStudio 3 1. Log Display. When applied to a displayed log, any cart number that matches any one of the individual cart masks within a defined Cart Category will be displayed with the text and background color associated with the category. By using distinctive color combinations, you can more easily spot commercial clusters, for instance.
Configuring XStudio Property 41 REQ Description the topic Using the Cart Mask Edit Panel for details on how to edit cart masks for a category. Creating a New Cart Category To create a new Cart Category, click on the insert button in the data navigator, marked with a " + " symbol - you can also used the [Insert] key. A dialog appears, prompting you to enter a category name. The name can be anything you wish and is usually text that identifies the category contents.
XStudio 3 Cart Mask Edit Panel See the topic Using the Cart Mask Edit Panel for details on the panel’s usage and the Cart Masks Explained topic for information on valid cart masks. When you finish editing the text color, background color and/or the cart masks, click on the [Post] button in the data navigator to save your changes. Editing a Cart Category To edit any one of the properties of a category, [Double-Click] on the item you wish to edit.
Configuring XStudio 3.5 43 User Interface Settings The User Interface tab includes a number of properties that allow you to control how a broadcast log (schedule) is displayed, along with settings to control access to the Preferences area. All settings on this page have default values and need be changed only if you wish to modify how XStudio displays the log or if you wish to restrict access to all Preferences settings.
XStudio 3 broadcast log. The base log font type and size, along with text and background colors for non-audio log items are included in this group. Changes made in this group are dynamic - when you make changes and save (apply) them, the log's display characteristics are updated immediately upon exiting the Preferences area. Where color combinations are selected, a sample of the appearance of the color combination is displayed for immediate feedback on your choices.
Configuring XStudio 45 Property Description Directive, Log Note, Program Title Colors This group of properties controls the color scheme of non-audio log elements - Directives, Program Titles and Log Notes. Each is assigned its own background and text color, but since the property assignment is the same in each case, they are consolidated for brevity. Background Select a background color from the drop-down list or by using the color customization dialog.
XStudio 3 Property Description Display Font Select the font you wish to use for the log from the drop-down list of fonts available on your system. Font appearance is previewed as you scroll through the list of available fonts. The default font used for the inventory list is Arial. Font Size Set the inventory display font size using the spin edit buttons. Allowed sizes range from 8 to 80. The default font size is 8.
Operation - Using XStudio Part IV
XStudio 3 XStudio is fairly straightforward to use as an audio playback system. This section covers a number of topics, including a tour of the main user interface, audio playback and the controls that affect playback, and editing the log (program schedule) to change the content and/or content playback order.
Operation - Using XStudio 49 XStudio Main Display (shown with 4 decks enabled) The example display shown is typical of the visual appearance of XStudio after the system has been configured in Preferences. Before you can use XStudio successfully, a minimal number of system properties must be customized to meet your needs. See the section on system configuration or the separate Quick Start Guide document for additional information.
4.1 XStudio 3 The XStudio Main Display The arrangement, sizing and visibility of items on the main display can be customized to suit your preferences. Typically, you'll see three (3) or four (4) playback decks that correspond to playback channels 1, 2, 3 and/or 4 respectively, a menu and tool bars, the log (program schedule), hot buttons and inventory information. Here's an overview of the most prominent features of the main display: Title Bar.
Operation - Using XStudio 51 default. Each button can be programmed to play a cart (audio file), perform an XStudio Action, or, if applicable, signal a host DCS or Maestro to perform one of its own user functions. The buttons re-size automatically as the main display size is changed and you can manually make them wider using the splitter control that separates the hot buttons from the log.
XStudio 3 This section focuses on playing audio from the log. There are two steps involved: a) "marking" the item you wish to play; and b) initiating playback in one of several ways. Setting the "Next-To-Play" Log Item Manually In order to play an audio item from the log, XStudio needs to know which item to play. This is achieved by "marking" a selected log item (cart) as the Next-To-Play item. To set the next item to play, select the item you wish to mark.
Operation - Using XStudio 53 now playing. Deck 1 Transport - Active When an audio item is active on a playback deck, the [Stop] button is enabled, as shown. The deck displays the remaining play time of the cart, along with its number and description. Decks also have a status light (LED) that indicates the deck is active and a cart is playing. As many as three (3) carts, also referred to as audio streams, can be playing simultaneously on each of the available decks.
XStudio 3 might use one of these decks, for instance, to play a cart from the audio clipboard - a playback activity that has nothing to do with the log. These secondary decks are also used for playback using hot buttons and may be used as a place to audition audio off-air. As a default, decks 2, 3 and 4 do not interact with the log - the audio source for each is the audio clipboard.
Operation - Using XStudio 55 Keyboard Play Start XStudio implements a special keystroke combination for each of the three playback decks. These keyboard shortcuts are always active and available to the end-user. For instance, to play the Next-ToPlay item on the log, press and hold down the [Ctrl] (control) key, followed by the [1] key, located above the "Q" key on a standard keyboard. This has the same effect as clicking on the [Play] button on the Deck 1 transport.
XStudio 3 when the mode is set so XStudio knows the boundaries of a local break. See the topic on Operating Modes for additional information on modes of operation XStudio supports and how these modes affect operation. Playback Using Hot Buttons Playing audio with a hot button is as simple as clicking on the button. The audio will be played immediately on the playback channel you selected when configuring the button. For details on setting up hot buttons, see the topic on Hot Buttons.
Operation - Using XStudio 4.3 57 Hot Buttons XStudio "hot buttons" are instant-execution buttons that can be programmed to play a cart on demand or to execute an XStudio Action. This topic describes how to set up and use hot buttons. There are two hot button areas in XStudio. One set is located on the main display and is a minimal set intended for items that might be used frequently by all users.
XStudio 3 The Cart Wall window is hidden as a default and does not display the very first time XStudio is launched. When XStudio is closed, the Cart Wall's state (shown/hidden and screen position ) is recorded and restored the next time XStudio is started. For additional information on Cart Wall features and how to use Cart Wall, review the topic Using the XStudio Cart Wall. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Operation - Using XStudio 59 Configure a Hot Button Using Drag and Drop The easiest way to set up a hot button to play a cart is to select an audio item (cart) from the log, the inventory display or (if enabled) the music search dialog, drag it onto the button and drop it. The cart number of the dragged item is recorded, and the cart description becomes the button’s caption. If the target button was not configured or was configured as a Play Cart, the change is immediate.
XStudio 3 Property Description Action Type Determines what action will be taken when the button is pressed (clicked). Options are Play Cart (default), CCC Function, and XStudio Action. This property also dictates which other properties are enabled when programming a button. The CCC Function execution type is applicable only when you are using a DCS or Maestro unit as the host audio engine.
Operation - Using XStudio 61 Configuration graphic above. Enter a caption of your choosing - this becomes the button text and should describe the audio that will be played when the button is clicked. The quickest way to program a hot button to play a cart is to drag a cart from the log or from the inventory onto the button. Then, open the hot button configuration dialog to make any desired changes in the button caption and button colors.
XStudio 3 Programming a CCC Function To configure a hot button to have a host DCS or Maestro system execute a CCC Function, select CCC Function as the Action Type. The display will update and look similar to the example. CCC Function Configuration Enter the name of the function you want the host DCS or Maestro system to execute exactly as it appears in the host system. CCC Function names are case sensitive! Make sure you enter the function name exactly as it appears in the host DCS or Maestro system.
Operation - Using XStudio 4.4 63 Log Editing & Validation Operation of XStudio can involve quite a bit of interaction with the broadcast log (schedule), including such things as opening or creating a log, editing the log by adding, changing, deleting or moving log items and saving log changes. In addition, you can validate a log - that is, compare the log against the available inventory to see what items might be missing or have date problems.
XStudio 3 You can also use a [Double-Click] to open a selected log without having to click on the [OK] button by enabling this functionality in Preferences. Navigating the Calendar Display In addition to mouse control and selection of logs, you can also use the keyboard. As with most Windows applications, use the [Tab] to move from control (or button) to control. Within the calendar control, use the [LeftArrow], [RightArrow], [UpArrow] and [DnArrow] keys to move among the displayed days.
Operation - Using XStudio 4.4.2 65 Editing a Log When a log has been selected and opened, the main display will appear similar to the example shown here. There are three main areas in this display: a) hourly audio content totals; b) the log; and c) inventory display. There is a tool bar (similar to the one shown) that provides button access to commonly-used functions. To determine a button's use, float your mouse over it for a hint. The log display table is where most of your work will be done.
XStudio 3 If you are positioned on the last item on the log, you'll be prompted to either insert an item or append an item. Appending will place the new item at the end of the log after the current, selected item. Select the type of item you want and either press the [Enter] key or click on the [OK] button. An edit dialog customized for the particular type of item you're inserting will be displayed. For more information on each of the edit display types, see the section on Working with Edit Dialogs.
Operation - Using XStudio 67 XStudio allows ONLY audio items to be moved. All other non-audio items (program titles, directives, etc.) must either be edited to change the item time or deleted and re-inserted at the appropriate time. Deleting a Log Item To delete an item, press the [Del] key or select Delete Log Item from either the main menu or pop-up menu. You'll be asked to confirm that you really want to delete the item. If you answer "Yes", the item is deleted from the log.
XStudio 3 You can use the "splitter bar" between the Hourly Totals list and the log display to widen the list so you can see the entire line of text if you increase the text size. The hourly totals list also serves as a method of jumping to a particular hour on the log. [Double-Click] on any one of the hours to jump to the beginning of the selected hour on the log. Selecting an hour and pressing the [Enter] key can also be used to jump to the selected hour.
Operation - Using XStudio 69 Based on the selected type, a custom dialog specific to the log item type is displayed for data entry. Navigating Edit Dialogs You can move through the fields displayed in an edit dialog by pressing the [Tab] or [Enter] key. Either will advance you to the next field or button in the dialog. [Shift-Tab] moves backward through the fields and buttons. Directly select a field for editing using your mouse with [Left-Click].
XStudio 3 length. The edit dialogs make some assumptions about typical lengths you might enter. For instance, if you enter "10" in a length field, the result will be "0 hours, 10 minutes, 0 seconds". If you enter "100", the result will be "1 hour, 40 minutes, 0 seconds". To enter a value of 30 seconds, type "0.0.30". The maximum allowed time for a length field is 16 hours, 39 minutes, 59 seconds, which adheres to the maximum logged length for XStudio.
Operation - Using XStudio 71 Macro Usage = Current Hour (24-hour format) Hours 0 (midnight) through 9 = 0..9, 10 = A, 11 = B, 12 (noon) = C, 13 (1 PM) = D through 23 (11 PM) = N Using this macro character format, there are no duplicates throughout the day. + Nearest Hour (24-hour format) If current minute of the hour >= 30, then the returned hour value is incremented by 1. Hours 0 (midnight) through 9 = 0..
XStudio 3 Hour of Day 12-Hour Format 24-Hour Format 5 AM 5 5 6 AM 6 6 7 AM 7 7 8 AM 8 8 9 AM 9 9 10 AM A A 11 AM B B Noon C C 1 PM 1 D 2 PM 2 E 3 PM 3 F 4 PM 4 G 5 PM 5 H 6 PM 6 I 7 PM 7 J 8 PM 8 K 9 PM 9 L 10 PM A M 11 PM B N Type Code Fields Type Code fields use a dropdown list to select type codes. You can also begin typing and the list will show the closest match. The lists are presented as full words to enhance readability.
Operation - Using XStudio 73 will be filled in with "$ Load Play". Automatic insertion of default description text is done only if the Description field is blank on opening the dialog. If you are editing a Directive and change the directive type, the default text will not be automatically inserted to replace existing text. Copy and Paste Text For fields that contain text, you can copy and paste text using standard Windows keystrokes.
XStudio 3 4.4.2.1.2 Blank Line Dialog XStudio provides the ability to insert a so-called "blank" line in the log. In reality, the blank line is nothing more than a time place holder. It is generally used as a visual aid in log layout. XStudio ignores blank lines in general and does not treat them as a separator in satellite breaks, for instance. The only field to fill out in a Blank Line record is the time.
Operation - Using XStudio Field 75 REQ Usage Log Time RO Displays base time for the log item. Cart Number The cart number of the log item. This entry can include valid macro characters. When the dialog is closed, the contents of this field are checked to be sure only valid cart number characters have been entered. Description The text that will appear on the XStudio display for this log item. Length The length of audio file (cart) as hours, minutes, seconds.
XStudio 3 When the inventory list is displayed, you can [Double-Click] on an inventory item to fill in all applicable fields in the spot record. You can also drag an item from the inventory list and drop it on the edit panel to fill in all applicable fields. 4.4.2.1.4 Load Directive Dialog Load directives are key components to satellite or full local automation in XStudio. It is important that you understand the use and meaning of directives.
Operation - Using XStudio 77 Load Directive Dialog Field Information Items with a check mark in the REQ column require user entry, while unchecked items have default values which can optionally be changed. Field REQ Usage Log Time Execution time for the directive. The time entered must fall between the previous not-spot time and the next non-spot time on the log. Directive Type The type of directive for this log item. Select the directive type from the drop-down list.
XStudio 3 Field REQ Usage Relay Number For an Execute Function, the Action ID number for the Action, taken from the XStudio automation configuration. For a Load Window Set Voice, enter 99. Valid relay numbers are 1-9999. 4.4.2.1.6 Log Note Dialog Log Notes are informational in nature and XStudio ignores them. XStudio does not treat them as a separator in satellite breaks, for instance.
Operation - Using XStudio 79 4.4.2.1.8 Play Cart Dialog The Play Cart Directive Dialog is very similar to the Spot Dialog in appearance and functionality, with the exception that the Play Cart Directive needs a valid log time. You can use the same editing techniques for this dialog as you do with the Spot Dialog.
XStudio 3 Field REQ Usage items on them that were exported from a commercial traffic system. 4.4.2.1.9 Program Title Dialog Program Titles are used primarily to communicate, via the log, program elements to an operator of XStudio. Usage of Program Titles is most common for live-assist hours of the broadcast day.
Operation - Using XStudio 4.4.3 81 Saving a Log Save a log by selecting File | Save Log. You can also use the toolbar button for saving a log. If the log already exists in the save location, you'll be prompted and offered the opportunity to either overwrite the existing log or cancel the save operation. A check will be made, prior to saving, to see if the log file might have been changed by someone else while you were editing.
XStudio 3 and Maestro log editors use, with each item incrementing one second from the previous item. Select the option "Estimated Air Times' to display spot (audio item) times as an estimate of when the item would be played in a given hour.
Operation - Using XStudio 83 See the topic on Log Colors for more information on setting the specific colors and properties of audio items that are either out-of-date for the log date or missing from the audio inventory. Show Log Times as AM/PM You can change the time display of log items from military time (the default) to AM/PM times. Select the menu item View | Log Display | Show Log Time as AM/PM to toggle log item times between military and AM/PM display.
XStudio 3 different color schemes for commercials, jingles, music, and voice tracks to make them readily identifiable at a glance. See the topic on Cart Categories for more information on defining colors associated with various groups of audio items. Customizing Log Column Width, Location and Visibility The XStudio log is displayed as a group of columns of information. The size, order and visibility of each column can be controlled to produce a display customized to your preferences.
Operation - Using XStudio Column 85 Def Description copy of the Description column depending on the user options that are set. Artist If the feature is enabled and the log item is a song, the song's artist is displayed. In all other cases, no information appears in this column. Time Aired If an audio item on the log plays successfully, the time the item started playing appears in this column.
XStudio 3 Resizing a Log Column To change the width of a log column, float the mouse cursor over the column headings. When the cursor shape changes to the divider style (arrows pointing either way), press and hold the [Left] mouse button down. Move the mouse left or right to make the column width smaller or larger.
Operation - Using XStudio 87 ONLY spot records (carts) can be copied and pasted. Log items other than audio (spot) records require manual insertion. To copy a spot record, select the spot on the log you wish to copy. Then, you can use the [Ctrl-F3] keystroke to copy the item to the spot clipboard. You can also use menu items from the main Edit menu or the log display's pop-up menu. To paste a copied spot record, select the row on the log where you want the spot inserted.
XStudio 3 Selecting a Cart in an Edit Dialog To select a cart in one of the edit dialogs, [Double-Click] on the cart you wish to select, or, if you prefer using the keyboard, highlight the cart and press the [Enter] key. In either case, the cart number, description and length of the cart will be placed in the edit fields. You can also drag a cart from the inventory and drop it on the record display, similar to the main display drag and drop operation.
Operation - Using XStudio 89 Add Cart to Clipboard Select this menu item to place the selected cart in the audio clipboard. The item will be appended to the list of items, if any, and appear at the bottom of the list. Edit Cart Information XStudio allows you to edit selected cart properties when you select this menu item. An edit dialog appears, similar to the one shown.
XStudio 3 are user-definable. This menu option allows you to update the inventory on-demand and is particularly useful when the audio folder is a network drive and you have the Scan Interval set to a high value. Load Inventory This menu option allows you to load and display an inventory file of your choosing. You are prompted to select a file name. Printing a Cart List You can print a list of carts at any time.
Operation - Using XStudio 91 In the preview window, you can page through the log on-screen by using the forward and back toolbar buttons. You can zoom the preview in and out using the magnifying glass buttons on the toolbar. Scroll the page with the scroll bar to see the lower portions of the page. You can also scroll the page using the [PgUp] and [PgDn] keys and the [UpArrow] and [DnArrow] keys. Send the log to a printer from the preview by clicking on the printer button on the toolbar.
4.4.9 XStudio 3 Emergency Logs An emergency log is nothing more than an undated standard log with a special name, located in the same folder as a station's standard dated logs. To create an emergency log in XStudio, edit any log so that it contains the program content you wish to use in case of an emergency. The log can be any length up to 24 hours.
Operation - Using XStudio 93 4.4.10 Log Validation Log validation checks the items on a log to see if they exist in the inventory of the XStudio machine on which the log will be aired, and checks whether or not the item is valid for the log date. A report is generated that can be printed or saved to file. To validate a log, select the menu item File | Validate Log. The current log is validated and a dialog similar to the example shown is displayed, containing the results of the validation.
XStudio 3 Column Name Description enabled). Time The scheduled log time. Cart No The number of the cart (audio file) played. Description Log description of the item. Length The playback length of a cart, expressed as minutes, seconds and hundredths of a second. Type The item's Type Code, also known as Commercial Type. Cust No (Customer Number) The customer number associated with the cart, if originally present on the broadcast log created by the traffic system.
Operation - Using XStudio 95 File | Print Validation Report. A print dialog will be displayed, allowing you to select the printer, choose portrait or landscape mode, choose to print only selected items on the report, or cancel the print operation. The printed report may span more than one page, depending on the number of items that failed validation. The report columns will fit on a standard page in portrait mode, which is the default.
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Reference Part V
XStudio 3 This section contains more detailed background information on a number of key subjects that will help you to gain a better understanding of how XStudio works. Studying these sections is not absolutely necessary, but it will make it much easier for you to use XStudio more efficiently and effectively. If you are new to XStudio, we recommend you review the topic on Programming XStudio, which discusses the concepts and provides practical examples.
Reference 99 Sorting Data To sort displayed information on a particular column, click on the column's header text. Initially, the data is sorted ascending. To sort the data descending, click on the column's header text a second time. You can also sort on multiple columns where applicable. After setting the sort order on the first column, hold down the [Shift] key and click on a second column's heading text.
XStudio 3 Grouping Data When grouping of data is applied, the resulting display is similar in appearance to the example shown below. Data grouped by Task Type You can group on multiple columns where applicable. The effect is to have groups within groups, also known as sub-groups. To add a column to the current grouping, drag another column into the group panel as you did with the original column. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 101 Grouping is not available for all columns in some data tables. If you attempt to drag a column into the group panel that is not allowed, the mouse cursor changes to indicate dropping the column in the group panel is not allowed. Filtering Data Displayed records can be reduced to just those items you wish to view using data filters. There are two ways to filter data - by using the dropdown list of filters for a given column of data, and by creating your own custom filters.
XStudio 3 Data filtering active Data filtering can be temporarily disabled, if desired. Uncheck the filter in the active filter panel and all data will again be displayed. To re-enable the filter, check the filter item in the active filter panel. Filtering is not available for all columns in some data tables. In a given table display, columns that can be filtered display a dropdown list graphic. Columns that do not support filtering do not contain the filter graphic.
Reference 103 Filter builder dialog Filters you create can be saved using the [Save As] button and later reloaded using the [Open] button. You can use wildcard characters in filters. The "_" (underscore) character is used for single-character wildcards, the "%" (percent) symbol is used for multicharacter wildcards. Adj usting Column Size and Position Data display columns can be both moved and resized to accommodate your needs.
XStudio 3 Resizing a column You can reorder columns by moving a column to a different location. To move a column, press and hold the left mouse button down on the column header text. Drag the column header to another location and drop it. As shown, a pair of arrows appears as you are dragging the column header, indicating the new position of the column if you drop it. Moving a column © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 105 Resizing or moving column display information has no effect on the data - the changes made are cosmetic and are available for users to customize the display for ease of use. Data Navigators Several areas in XStudio make use of so-called "data navigators." Essentially, a data navigator is an organized set of buttons that provides an easy-to-use interface for navigating around in displayed data like the log, station definitions, cart masks, and music databases.
5.1.3 XStudio 3 External Resources A significant part of handling automated task performance is the need to respond to or control devices connected to the PC running XStudio. This topic covers creating, editing and configuring these resources. External Resource Display Adding a New Resource To create a new resource, click on the [Add Resource] button.
Reference 107 Selecting the Resource Type Add Resource Properties Items with a check mark in the REQ column require user entry, while unchecked items have default values which can optionally be changed. Property REQ Description Resource Name The user-friendly name of the resource. Maximum length is 30 characters. Resource Type Select the resource type from the dropdown list. All supported resources are listed. COM Port Select the COM port to which the device is connected from the dropdown list.
XStudio 3 Editing Resource Labels When you have completed the label edits, press the [Enter] key or select another label to edit. All label edits are automatically saved when you move to a new resource record or use the [Post] button on the resources data navigator. Attaching Actions to Relay Inputs If a selected resource has relay inputs, you can associate an Action with an input.
Reference 109 Assign Action to Input Relay Dialog When you have selected the Action you want associated with the Input Relay, click on the [Apply] button to save your selection. The selected resource label will be updated to reflect the assignment. Action Assigned to Relay Input Actions assigned to input relays here are considered the "default" input relay mapping (the connection of an Action to an Input Relay).
XStudio 3 Adj usting Input Relay Lock-Out Values If a selected resource has input relays, you can "lock out" the relay for a specified period of time after it is initially triggered. The effect is to ignore any further trigger messages from the device until the "lockout" time has elapsed. The idea is to prevent multiple Input Relay triggers, either as a result of erroneous multiple relay assertions by the device signaling the Input Relay or so-called "relay bounce.
Reference 111 Deleting a Resource When you no longer need a resource, you can remove it from the database with the [Delete Resource] button. If the resource is used by any tasks, a message will appear, identifying how many tasks use the resource and asking you to confirm that the resource is to be deleted.
XStudio 3 5.1.3.1 Input Relay Lock-Out Dialog The Input Relay Lock-Out dialog is used to set the "lock-out" time of each Input Relay for an external device that includes input relays. The display identifies the selected resource name and type, along with displaying a list of input relays, their labels and current lock-out values. Input Relay Lock-Out Properties Dialog Lock-out values are expressed in seconds, in a range of 0..59 seconds.
Reference Sample Relay Lock-Out Report © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
5.1.4 XStudio 3 Actions An Action is a set of instructions you create (and name) to perform one or more Tasks. Actions are a powerful key component of XStudio program execution. Actions execute as a result of some sort of stimulus or "trigger," which can be as a response to an Input Relay, a scheduled event, a log directive, a hot-key or embedded in a cart and triggered at start of playback. Action Maintenance Display Actions are essentially ordered lists of Tasks to perform.
Reference 115 You can also begin editing an Action by double-clicking on the selected Action's task list display. Deleting an Action To delete an existing Action that is no longer needed, select the Action you wish to delete and click on the [Delete Action] button. Deleting an Action is permanent and cannot be undone! When an Action is deleted, its unique ID number is also removed and is not automatically used again until such time as the maximum ID number (~4 billion) is reached.
XStudio 3 5.1.4.1 Action Edit Dialog Creating new Actions and editing an Action are performed with the Action edit dialog, shown here. Using this dialog, you can rename the Action to be more meaningful; add, remove and reorder Tasks that are a part of the Action task list; and add or edit Tasks that you might wish to include in the Action.
Reference 117 mouse button down and drag the Task into task list box, then drop it (release the [Left] mouse button). When dragging the item, you can determine its position in the list by hovering the mouse in the exact position you want the Task before releasing the mouse button to drop it. Moving a Task within the Action Task List To move a Task up or down in the list, select the item you wish to move, hold down the [Left] mouse button, drag the item to its new position and release the mouse button.
XStudio 3 Assuming the Action you wish to execute has been created, there are two steps involved in using this functionality: 1. Enable the functionality (see Enable Actions Embedded in Carts) in XStudio Preferences. Unless this feature is enabled, XStudio will ignore any Actions embedded in carts. Enabling this feature is a matter of checking the appropriate item and saving your changes in Preferences. 2.
Reference 119 The keyword side (XSA=) can be upper or lowercase (or a mixture), but must be exactly those 3 characters followed by the equals sign. When you have completed your edits, save the changes. In the example shown, you'd click on the [Commit Changes] button. How do embedded Actions work? The inner workings of Actions embedded in carts are fairly straightforward.
5.1.5 XStudio 3 Tasks Tasks are the basis of automated task processing. Tasks are ultimately made a part of an Action, which is an ordered list of Tasks to perform. XStudio supports a number of task types, each with its own set of properties. In this area, you can create, edit and delete Tasks. For more information about available task types and their properties, refer to the Task Reference topic. Task Maintenance Display Adding a New Task To create a new Task, click on the [Add Task] button.
Reference 121 Add Task Dialog Select the type of task you wish to create and click on the [Apply] button. The new task's properties dialog will be displayed. Edit the task properties as appropriate and save the Task by clicking on the [Apply] button. The new Task will appear in the tasks table. Some task types require an external resource in order for the task to be functional.
XStudio 3 Task Usage Report A task usage report produces a list of Actions that use a selected Task. This report is useful if you are planning to modify a Task and wish to know how many Actions will be affected, or if you believe the Task is no longer needed and are preparing to delete it. To generate the report, select a Task and click on the [Task Usage] button. The Actions table is scanned and a list of all Actions that use the selected Task is displayed.
Reference 5.1.6 123 Scheduled Events Scheduled events are a way of executing an Action (a group of Tasks) at a predetermined time of the day. You can control the execution of a scheduled event in several ways, including disabling the event altogether. Scheduled Events Maintenance Display Adding a New Scheduled Event To create a new Scheduled Event, click on the [Add Event] button. The Scheduled Event properties dialog will be displayed.
XStudio 3 Deleting a Scheduled Event Deleting a Scheduled Event is permanent and cannot be undone! If you are not sure you want to permanently remove an event, temporarily disable the event instead, as described above. To permanently remove an event from the schedule, select the event and click on the [Delete Event] button. 5.1.6.
Reference Property 125 REQ Description military time in the format hour, minute, seconds. Start Date The first date on which the event is valid for execution. The default value when creating a new event is today's date. End Date The last date on which the event is valid for execution. The default end date is December 31, 2099. Advanced Event Properties As with Tasks, there is a set of advanced execution control properties you can access with the [Mode/ Days] button.
5.1.7 XStudio 3 Log Data The Log Data area contains historical information about program logs. XStudio maintains a table of log information, including snapshots of the log as it is performed throughout the day and a record of all "log splicing" operations - the merging of the current log with a newly-edited log for the same date. Log Splice and Log Snapshot records are automatically maintained for a period of 62 days. Log Data Table Display Log data records are automatically maintained by XStudio.
Reference 127 items on the updated log that are at times prior to the current time would not be used, so the executed portion of the log is retained and only content beyond the current log execution point is updated. Determining Log Splice Point The point at which the updated log content is "spliced" with the in-memory log is determined by locating the first Log Directive beyond the current execution point, as shown in the example.
XStudio 3 Log Status Dialog Log Status information can be useful in a number of ways - for making a quick check of whether an item played or not, producing a list of of all unplayed items and exporting status information to one of several popular file formats for further review. Searching Log Status Data You can search the log status data for a particular log item on any of the displayed columns (fields) of information.
Reference 129 to search from the dropdown Search Field list. You can choose to limit the search to find matching text at the beginning of the field only or anywhere in the search field and optionally search backward through the log. Click on the [Search] button to execute the search. If the item you're looking for is found, the log record is highlighted. To repeat the search, click on the [Search Again] button or use the keyboard shortcut [F12]. A message is displayed when no further matches are found.
XStudio 3 criteria you established are displayed. Log Status with a Filter Applied The example filter results shown display only carts (audio items) that were on the log but did not play. You can turn the filter on or off by clicking on the filter status checkbox. Exporting Log Status Data Displayed log status data can be exported for further review, if desired, to several popular formats. To export log status information, [Right-Click] on the status information to display a context menu.
Reference 131 5.1.7.2 Log Splice Comparison Dialog Each time an updated log is "spliced" (merged) with the active in-memory log, a record containing the original log and the updated log is stored in the database. The Log Splice Comparison dialog shows you the differences between the two logs. Log Splice Comparison - All Data When initially displayed, all log records for the original log and the new log are shown, side-by-side. Unique colors are used for changed lines, added lines and deleted lines.
XStudio 3 Log Splice Comparison - Differences Only As shown in the example, only log records (lines) that do not match are displayed, condensing the material to review considerably. Searching the Logs Searches for specific text can be performed on either log. Select one of the displayed logs - simply clicking anywhere in the log lines will do the trick. Then, click on either the [Search] or [Search Again] button. If this is your first search, a search dialog is displayed.
Reference 133 Search Dialog Fill in the text to search for and select any options you wish to use to restrict the search. To search again, click on the [Search Again] button, which will automatically repeat your last search. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
5.1.8 XStudio 3 Music Data You can display song title and artist information on the XStudio broadcast log if you either manually create or import the information into the music data table. As a log is loaded or refreshed, the music database is searched for matching cart numbers and if found, the song title and artist are added to the log record for display purposes.
Reference 135 Choose the type of file you will be importing from the dropdown list of available types and click on the [OK] button. You'll be prompted to select the file to import and the import process will begin. Should the Music Database already contain records, you will be prompted to choose whether you wish to append the imported records to the existing music records or simply replace all existing music records with the imported information. During the import process, a progress bar is displayed.
XStudio 3 as all uppercase text. Others may be inconsistent in the way data is entered. Use the utilities to format the song title and artist fields either as proper-cased or all uppercase text. Music Database Utilities Menu Setup Music Auto-Update When music is manually imported, you are presented with the option to enable auto-update of changed source music data. You can use this menu item to change auto-update settings, including enabling or disabling auto-update.
Reference 137 Empty Music Database Should the need arise, you can remove all music records in the database. Select the Empty Music Database menu item and after confirming your intent, all song title and artist information is removed from the database. Export Music to dcsTools Format Should the need arise, you can export the music data to a file for use with other dcsTools products that use song title and artist information. You are prompted for a file name and location.
XStudio 3 The design template file is named "MusicMaster_CCC_MS2ASC.xml" and is placed in the folder (directory) where our application is installed. Locate this file and follow the steps outlined below. If you are using the DOS version of MusicMaster, refer to the the MusicMaster DOS Export topic for details on exporting your music library instead of these instructions. Steps to Load and Use the Export Design 1. Copy the MusicMaster_CCC_MS2ASC.xml file to your MMWin folder. 2.
Reference Maestro # 112 1 DSC # Spacer -10102 0 2 Artist 101 1 35 Artist Spacer -10102 0
XStudio 3 1 2 Intro Spacer -10102 0 Ending 106 1 2 Ending Category 3 99 Category <
Reference 0 2 Fixed Text -10105 0 1 .
XStudio 3 Fixed Text -10105 0 M12345678901N12345678901 Fixed Text -10105 0 24 M12345678901N12345678901 Spacer -10102 0 7
Reference 143 Fixed Text -10105 0 1 .
XStudio 3 I:\DCS\[Path that you want the LIBRARY.ASC file exported to] 99,@ ["99," allows you to enter custom text, in this case we’re starting the file with "@"] 1,1,4 [Cart number, start with the first character in the field and use 4 characters] 99 ["99" is a single blank space] 99 2 [Artist Name with no limit to the number of characters] 99 99 3 [Song Title] 99 98 [Carriage Return/Line Feed] 22 [Runtime (mm:ss)] 99,.0 [the following two lines will add ".
Reference ID Field Description Length 8 Gender Codes 5 9 Tempo Codes 3 10 Power Codes 3 11 Like Score 2 12 Burn Score 2 13 Match Field 3 14 Harmonic Song Keys 2 15 First Non-Blank Artist Keyword 6 16 Title TWord 6 17 Disc Number 8 18 Mark Status 1 19 Composer Name 64 20 Publishing Company 64 21 Arranger Name 64 22 Runtime (mm:ss) 5 23 Daypart Codes 7 24 Add Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 25 Test Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 26 Last Move Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 27 Las
XStudio 3 ID Field Description Length 39 Record Order Number 10 40 Artist Keyword 1 6 41 Artist Keyword 2 6 42 Artist Keyword 3 6 43 Artist Keyword 4 6 44 Artist Keyword 5 6 50 Air Date (mm-dd-yyyy) (Music Logs Only) 10 51 Air Time (hh:mm:ss 24hr Clock) (Music Logs Only) 8 52 Weekday Code (1-7 Sunday = 1) (Music Logs Only) 1 53 Weekday Text Name (Music Logs Only) 3 54 Running in Seconds 4 55 Runtime (No Leading Zero) 5 56 Packet Status (X of Y) 8 57 Packet St
Reference ID Field Description Length 76 Theme Code 6 32 77 Theme Code 7 32 78 Theme Code 8 32 79 First Non-Blank Theme Code 32 80 Fixed Trivia Line 64 81 Rotating Trivia Line 1 64 82 Rotating Trivia Line 2 64 83 Rotating Trivia Line 3 64 84 Rotating Trivia Line 4 64 86 Rotating Trivia Line 1 – Kill Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 87 Rotating Trivia Line 2 – Kill Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 88 Rotating Trivia Line 3 – Kill Date (mm-dd-yyyy) 10 89 Rotating Trivia Line 4 – Kill Date (mm
XStudio 3 ID Field Description Length 115 Move History 3 – Category 1 Notes 1. Sound And Gender Code Translation Fields. A Sound and Gender Code Translation Field can be used to specify a particular CD changer or DAT tape machine. This option converts certain Sound Codes or Gender Codes to text using the following format: 0,[LENGTH],[FIELD][CODE][TEXT],[FIELD][CODE][TEXT], etc... The output will be left justified in a field of [LENGTH] spaces.
Reference 149 5.1.8.1.3 Exporting Selector Selector™ is a registered trademark of Radio Computing Systems, Inc. Note: These instructions are a reprint of the Computer Concepts Corporation documentation published on their web site, dated 9/14/2000. Sections that apply specifically to Maestro operations have been removed. Export Setup The following steps should be taken to successfully export your Selector Database to update your music inventory: 1. From Selector's main menu choose "Report Generator". 2.
XStudio 3 Line Col Length Description 2 32 1 Mood 2 35 5 Sound Code 2 40 7 Hook In 2 47 7 Hook Out 2 55 24 Monday Dayparting 3 1 24 Tuesday Dayparting 3 25 24 Wednesday Dayparting 3 49 24 Thursday Dayparting 4 1 24 Friday Dayparting 4 25 24 Saturday Dayparting 4 49 24 Sunday Dayparting 5 1 76 Song Notes Line #1 6 1 76 Song Notes Line #2 Note: Cart Number comes from the field chosen by the user to store the 4-digit XStudio, DCS, or Maestro cart nu
Reference 151 sync with your music scheduling system. When music is manually imported in XStudio, a prompt appears after the successful import, offering to enable auto-update using the current settings. If you answer "Yes", auto-update will be enabled. Using the Auto-Update Setup Dialog Sometimes changes need to be made in the way music data is updated. For instance, if you change music scheduling systems, the music export file name (the import source file name) may change.
XStudio 3 Property REQ Description Enable Automatic Update If checked, automatic updates are enabled. The default is unchecked (automatic updates disabled). Select Music System Select the music system producing the music data file from the drop down list. Source Music Data File The fully-qualified file name of the source music data file that XStudio will monitor and use for automatic updates. Append Records to Existing Data Default = unchecked.
Reference 5.2 153 Database Reference The XStudio Database is a collection of files called "tables" and is used to store components of automation operations, including tasks, actions, resources used by tasks and scheduled events. There are also tables for song title and artist information (music database) and broadcast log historical information. A second database, known as the XStudio Inventory Database, is also used.
XStudio 3 Field Name Type Size Description ActionID AutoInc ActionName String RelayNo Integer ListID Integer Data BLOB Contains the list of Tasks, in order, used in the Action. Each time an Action record is created, a unique ID value is automatically assigned by the system. This value is used to identify the Action and is not user-modifiable. 30 The user-assigned name for the Action.
Reference 155 5.2.2.3 External Devices Table The External Devices table contains information about audio switchers used in the system. Its on-disk name is: ExtDevices.nx1 External Devices Table Field Definitions The fields contained in the External Devices table, including field type and size (if applicable). Field Name Type Size Description DeviceID AutoInc Each time an External Device record is created, a unique ID value is automatically assigned by the system.
XStudio 3 Log Data Table Field Definitions The fields contained in the Log Data table, including field type and size (if applicable). Field Name Type Size Description ID AutoInc Each time a Log Data record is created, a unique ID value is automatically assigned by the system. This value is used to identify the data record and is not usermodifiable. DataType Integer Defines the type of Log Data contained in the record log snapshot or log splice.
Reference Field Name Type Title String 70 The title of the song. Artist String 70 The song's artist. Misc String 70 A miscellaneous information field. Data01 BLOB 157 Size Description RecCreateDate Date/Time The date and time the record was created. RecEditDate Date/Time The date and time the record was last edited. RecEditBy String 30 The user who last edited the record. 5.2.2.
XStudio 3 Field Name Type TaskName String TaskType Integer Size Description 30 The user-assigned name of the Task. The type of task stored in the record, as an integer value. Task Type numbers are interpreted by the host application and displayed in a user-friendly way. Data BLOB Contains the Task specifics, including valid modes, days and times along with Task-specific properties. TaskInfo BLOB Memo Contains Task properties, expressed as text.
Reference 159 causes XStudio to function as a database server. The other method is to use a separate stand-alone database server application, which implements a client/server relationship between XStudio and the database and makes the database available to other utility applications as well. If you set up XStudio to operate using a remote client/server database model, the local database is not used and any settings applicable to the local database, including allowing remote access, are disabled.
XStudio 3 Changing Data In most cases modification of data, whether it occurs within XStudio or is a result of a client utility application making changes, is transparent and automatically handled by XStudio. If a Task is updated, for instance, the next time the Task is used in an Action, the new information is used regardless of whether the change was made within XStudio or made with a utility application connecting remotely.
Reference 161 5.2.4.2.1 Inventory Data Table The Inventory Data table contains all audio file inventory information. It's on-disk name is: InvData.nx1 Inventory Data Field Definitions The fields contained in the System Data table, including field type and size (if applicable). Field Name Type Size Description FilePath String 300 The path to the inventory item. Path may be expressed either as a drive letter or using UNC naming conventions.
XStudio 3 5.2.4.3 Sharing the InvMgr Database Inventory database files, referred to as the XStudio Inventory Database, are owned exclusively by XStudio as a default; when XStudio is running, no other application is allowed access to these files. Any attempts to open, copy or delete these files will be denied by the operating system, as they are already opened exclusively by XStudio. Making the database available to other applications, called "sharing," can be accomplished in two distinct ways.
Reference 5.3 163 Data Navigators Several areas in XStudio make use of so-called "data navigators". Essentially, a data navigator is an organized set of buttons that provides an easy-to-use interface for navigating around in displayed data like the log, station definitions, cart categories, and music databases. In addition to navigation, some of the navigators include buttons to add (insert), edit, & delete items.
5.4 XStudio 3 Keyboard Shortcuts A number of keyboard shortcuts are implemented in XStudio. Availability of some shortcuts varies depending on the main display control that is active at a given moment. The following tables document keyboard shortcuts that are available, starting with global shortcuts and continuing with shortcuts available only in certain controls within XStudio. Global Shortcuts These shortcut keys are active anywhere on the main display.
Reference Shortcut 165 Action topic on Log Validation for more information. [Ctrl-X] Exit XStudio. You are prompted to confirm that you want to close down XStudio and if the host audio engine is XEngine, given the option to close it as well. [Tab] [Shift-Tab] The tab key. Moves from one control to another on the main display. You will be cycled through the log display, filters, inventory and hourly totals. [Tab] moves forward, [Shift-Tab] moves backward.
XStudio 3 Shortcut Action [Del] [Delete] Delete a log item. Deletes the selected log item after user confirmation. [UpArrow] [DnArrow] Move up or down one item on the log. [LeftArrow] [RightArrow] Scroll left or right on the current row of the log. Has the same effect as using the log's horizontal scroll bar. [PgUp] [PgDn] Pages through the log, moving one page up or one page down. [Ctrl-Home] Move to the beginning of the log. [Ctrl-End] Move to the end of the log.
Reference 167 Shortcut Action [RightArrow] the same effect as using the list's horizontal scroll bar, if visible. [PgUp] [PgDn] Pages through the inventory list, moving one page up or one page down. [Home] Move to the beginning of the inventory list. [End] Move to the end of the inventory list.
5.5 XStudio 3 Log Directives Log Directives are a special key component of the broadcast log (schedule). Log Directives serve a number of purposes: They provide specific instructions to XStudio regarding program execution. Examples include marking the commercial break that will play next in Satellite mode, causing an XStudio Action to execute at a specific log time, and causing XStudio to play audio at a specific time.
Reference Name 169 Log Purpose in Satellite mode operations. Satellite-delivered formats will often have at least a few times during the day or hour that must include locally inserted programming, typically commercial breaks. Load Optional LS Load Optional directives designate breaks that are optional in nature in Satellite mode operations.
XStudio 3 Name Log Purpose item as the first audio item (cart) following the directive. Also referred to as "Soft Sync". Valid in Satellite and Automation modes only, ignored in all other modes. Current Voice $ The dollar sign character, located at any position in the Description except the first character position. When used with the Load Window directive, the two characters following the dollar sign become the current voice value. Valid in all modes.
Reference 171 between the directive and the next directive), XStudio will skip the break entirely in Satellite mode regardless of the directive type. If there is at least one audio item associated with the directive, XStudio will play the break in Satellite mode. You must ensure that you have enough audio elements to "fill" the break - if the scheduled break length is 3 minutes, you must have 3 minutes of content scheduled on the log. There is no automatic backfill of audio to meet the required length.
XStudio 3 Execute Function Directive (CR) The Execute Function directive is used to execute an XStudio Action at a specific log time. This directive is valid for Satellite and Automation modes only; it is ignored in all other modes. Play Cart Directive (PC) The Play Cart directive is used to play a specific audio item (cart) at the directive log time.
Reference 173 Hard Sync Directive Key (!) The Hard Sync directive key is used to perform an immediate synchronization of XStudio audio playback to a specific log time. When a directive containing the Hard Sync key is activated, XStudio stops any audio playing on the primary playback channel (channel 1) immediately and begins playing the item on the log immediately following the directive.
5.
Reference Option/Functionality 175 Change Description Action is processed, only Tasks that are valid for Emergency mode are processed. Tasks not valid in Emergency mode are skipped. In addition, log selection tabs (Today/Tomorrow) are hidden as this mode of operation only uses the current log. Additional menu items for manually opening a log are made available. Live Mode Live mode places more responsibility on the user than other modes of operation.
XStudio 3 Option/Functionality Change Description Auto-Segue The Auto-Segue state (enabled/disabled) is not changed. Play Through Directives Enabled. Regardless of the previous state of the Play Through Directives property, it is enabled. Wrap Log Option The Wrap Log Option state is not changed. However, in Automation mode XStudio will automatically wrap around to the beginning of the current log if the next-day log is unavailable when needed.
Reference Option/Functionality 177 Change Description beginning of the current log if the next-day log is unavailable when needed. The idea is that if XStudio is operating in Satellite mode, it is unlikely that anyone would be around to correct the problem and it would be better to continue to cover local breaks, etc, than to allow periods of dead air. Log Directives All Log Directives are processed. This includes any directive keys, as appropriate.
5.7 XStudio 3 Programming XStudio Developing your station's air sound is a creative process, requiring a strong sense of what your potential listeners will be attracted to, along with some sound judgment. Once you determine what the "sound" or "format" of the station will be, it's a matter of explaining it to those who will execute the steps needed to achieve that "sound.
Reference 179 These "walk-away" or "automated" times are generally organized in one of two ways: 1. All program content that is to be aired is present on the log and is played by XStudio. This is commonly referred to as "local automation". In this scenario, XStudio will play log content from a starting point on the log in a sequential manner. Periodic adjustments for overscheduled content may be made, using so-called "hard sync" and "soft sync" methods, which are driven by the log. 2.
XStudio 3 Example Satellite Programming Format Clock By examining the clock, you can see that there are four (4) sets of functionality that we have to handle. Three (3) of them require the local station to play a single audio item (cart) in response to a signal - the Legal ID, Return Liner and Image Liner. The fourth is a commercial break which occurs four (4) times an hour and requires local playback of audio for varying amounts of time.
Reference 181 The Legal ID In our example format, the Legal ID is called once per hour, near the top of the hour. The programming service sends a unique closure, so we know that whenever this closure comes, we need to play the Legal ID. Here are the steps needed: 1. Create an Update Switcher task that will be used to make sure the switcher audio input channel to which XStudio playback audio is connected gets on the air.
XStudio 3 3. Assign the new "CRM Return Liner" Action to the corresponding Relay Input on the audio switcher. This in effect "connects" the Action to the satellite service's closure. Like the Legal ID, the effect of these steps is that every time the satellite programming service sends their Return Liner closure, so long as XStudio is in Satellite mode, XStudio makes sure the correct audio input channel is "On" and plays the cart RL01.
Reference 183 only (uncheck all others). Save ([Apply]) the task. This task will be used to signal XStudio to play the audio items on the log that correspond to the break. 3. Create a new Update Switcher Task. Name the task "CRM Return to Sat". In the Updated Switcher dialog, select the correct audio switcher. Turn row 1, channel 1 "On" (the programming service channel). Change the Valid Modes option to be Satellite mode only (uncheck all others). Save ([Apply]) the task.
XStudio 3 continuing until the next log directive is found, are considered to be a part of the break. In our example, this means the audio items are associated with the 20-past break. XStudio treats Load Required and Load Optional directives in exactly the same way. If there are no audio items associated with the directive (meaning no carts between the directive and the next directive), XStudio will skip the break entirely in Satellite mode regardless of the directive type.
Reference 185 mode, XStudio will not cross over a log directive to continue playing, so only the audio items on the log between the active directive and the next one on the log are played. During this time, the Action is waiting until the break length time expires. At 3 minutes since the audio playback started (based on our example break length), the last task in the Action task list is executed, updating the audio switcher to restore the satellite programming service channel back on the air.
XStudio 3 the needed elements for your normal satellite programming operations. The basic changes needed to transition to special event programming from "normal" programming in Satellite mode and eventually resume normal programming include: Changing how XStudio responds to relay closures during the time special programming is airing. Setting up Actions to handle the special event's join, local commercial break and program end signals.
Reference 187 2. In our example, your Action to resume normal programming will include a second Remap Input Relays task which restores the default input relay mapping to the switcher. Now, we're ready to join the special program when the program start is signaled by the provider. When program start is signaled, the Action created in step 4 above will be executed.
XStudio 3 time. In our example, for instance, all three of the time approximate breaks could be called in the first 15 minutes of the hour or the last 15 minutes of the hour and all would be performed in sequence. While all breaks in our example are of the same length, they could be different with no difference in how XStudio performs them. The key in that case is to match the lengths of the breaks in sequence to what the program provider will be doing.
Reference 189 the exception of commercial content, which would come from the traffic system. This allows the music and programming departments to control program flow, using the commercial log generated by the traffic system to fill in the commercial content only. There should be a Log Directive at the beginning of each hour, as a minimum. In a music format, this directive would typically be inserted in the music scheduling system format clock as the first element of the hour.
XStudio 3 two extra songs (in our example) are not needed. XStudio provides the means to get back on track - get synchronized with the clock - either in a nonintrusive way or a rather abrupt way. These methods are referred to as a "Soft Sync" and "Hard Sync", respectively. Both methods are driven by the log using a Directive Key added to a standard log directive. In the following examples, we show how to place a single synchronization command on the log for a given hour.
Reference 191 Hard-Sync directive key, as it appears in XStudio In our example, when the clock reaches 3:00:00 PM, XStudio detects the synchronization key and sets the Next-To-Play marker to the first element following the directive, as with the soft synchronization method. However, in hard synchronization, XStudio stops all audio playing on the primary playback channel (channel 1) and immediately starts playing the first audio item following the directive on the log.
5.8 XStudio 3 Task Reference Tasks are a core component of XStudio automated execution. Each task does only one specific thing, unlike some systems where multiple actions are taken within a single task. This approach allows for greater flexibility, as tasks can be reused easily without concerns about side effects of anything done in addition to performing the basic task. Tasks are combined with other tasks to form what is known as an Action, which is simply an ordered list of tasks.
Reference 5.8.1 193 Task Type (Alphabetical) Description Start Play Start playback of audio from the log or from a list of carts (audio files). Stop Play Stop play of audio on a selected channel, either by channel or by cart number. Switcher Fade Fade a single channel, up or down, on a selected audio switcher. Only a few audio switchers support this feature. System Backup Backup system database files and optionally, XStudio preference and settings files.
XStudio 3 Time of Day (Day Part or Hour Part) Access these properties from any task dialog with the [Mode/Days] button. The Advanced Properties allow you to set conditions that must be met for the task to be performed. Note that all conditions must be met for the task to execute. Default Advanced Properties Settings Valid Modes At least one mode must be selected for a task to be valid. You will not be allowed to apply changes to a task until one or more modes are selected.
Reference 195 Valid Hours / Hour Parts When determining whether a task is valid for execution, you can limit valid times of the day to either a contiguous time range (sometimes called a Day Part) or a specified range of minutes within a specified range of hours, called Hour Parts. An hour range is simple to understand - there's a beginning time and an ending time, and if the task execution attempt occurs within that time range, it is considered valid and executes.
XStudio 3 through 20:59. In this example if you did not want the task to execute beyond 20 minutes past the hour, you could set the End Minute value to 19, which would allow the task to execute from 10:00 through 19:59, thus excluding the 20:00 past the hour time. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 5.8.2 197 Banner Message Task The Banner Message task is used to display user-defined text in the XStudio Message Center. This task can be used to inform operators of system status changes, special events that might be currently airing and "reminder" messages. Banner Message Properties Items with a check mark in the REQ column require user entry, while unchecked items have default values which can optionally be changed. Property REQ Description Task Name The user-friendly name of the task.
XStudio 3 Property Blink Text REQ Description Default: Unchecked. If checked, the message text will be blink on and off when displayed in the XStudio Message Center. Text displayed in the Message Center remains until replaced by another Banner Message task, the duration of the message (if greater than zero) has elapsed, or an operator manually clears the message from the Message Center. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 5.8.3 199 Remap Input Relays Task The Remap Input Relays task is used to change or reset input relay mapping for an audio switcher. This task is useful for situations where you may wish to disable (or "unhook") input relay actions used for normal programming, replace them with a different set of actions enabled (or "hooked") to input relays for a special event, and later restore the "default" input relay mapping when programming returns to normal.
XStudio 3 Property REQ Description item is selected, the Relay Map Table is disabled and when the task is executed, the selected device's original input relay mapping is restored. Relay Map Table Displayed input relays for the selected device are listed, initially with no Actions assigned to any of the input relays. Select the desired input relay and either [Double-Click] on the item or [Right-Click] and select the menu item "Assign Action ..." to display an Action selection dialog.
Reference 201 Selecting an Input Relay to Remap To assign an Action to an input relay, [Double-Click] on the input relay to display the Assign Action to Relay Input dialog. Alternatively, you can [Right-Click] on the selected input relay and select the menu item "Assign Action ..." to display an Action selection dialog. Selecting an Action to assign When you have completed all of the input relays that need to be mapped, click on the [Apply] button to save the task.
XStudio 3 Remap Input Relays complete. To disable all input relays for the device, select the "Remap Input Relays" option and do not assign an Action to any of the available input relays. When the task is executed, it will essentially "unhook" all relays. Clearing (Removing) an Action from an Input Relay If you wish to remove an Action assigned to an input relay, [Right-Click] on the input relay to be changed and select the pop-up menu item "Clear Action...
Reference Restore Default Input Relay Mapping When this task is executed with the Restore Input Relay Defaults option, the switcher resource's original input relay settings are restored from the device's resource record. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
5.8.4 XStudio 3 Send Control Command Task The Send Control Command task is used to send a string of data to an external device for purposes of controlling the device or causing it to take some action. The data string can be sent as pure text or as binary information. This is a send-data-only task; any information returned by the device is ignored. When creating a new Send Control Command task, the dialog is initially displayed similar to the example shown here, with its default property settings.
Reference Property 205 REQ Description sent to the external device. Append When this property is checked, a Line Feed (Decimal 10, Hex OA) is appended to the Command String when sent to the external device. When both Append and Append are checked, they are appended to the Command String in conventional order - Carriage Return followed by Line Feed.
XStudio 3 Command String preview in Hex Command String preview in Control Codes © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 5.8.5 207 Set Auto-Segue Task The Set Auto-Segue task is used to set the auto-segue state of the host application on or off. The autosegue state controls automatic sequencing of audio playback from the broadcast log, If the auto-segue state is On, sequencing from one log item to the next occurs automatically when the item's Aux Mark (EOM) is signalled. If auto-segue state is Off, automatic sequencing does not occur.
5.8.6 XStudio 3 Set Clock Task The Set Clock task is used to reset the time on the host PC, typically signaled by an external source such as a fixed-time relay (closure) from a satellite programming service. When this task is executed, the minutes and seconds of the hour are set. You can control how much adjustment is allowed with the Allowed Drift property.
Reference 5.8.7 209 Set Mode (Operating Mode) Task The Set Mode (Set Operating Mode) task is used to set the current operating mode of the system. There are 4 modes from which to choose: Emergency Live Automation Satellite The operating mode affects how the system reacts to things like log directives, input relays and a number of other events that occur. This task is most often used when transitioning to and from satellite programming.
5.8.8 XStudio 3 Set Voice Task The Set Voice task is typically used in conjunction with satellite programming. Programming services will often provide liners, splitters, etc, done by the program hosts. These liners are then signaled by the programming service at various times. As the host changes, the custom liners, etc, need to change as well. Rather than creating many different tasks that play different cart numbers, you can use this task to set a 2-character value for the so-called "voice number".
Reference 5.8.9 211 Start Play Task The Start Play task is used to begin playing items on the log - like a commercial break - or to play a specified cart (audio item) to a specific play channel. The most common uses of the Start Play task are to initiate a local commercial break in satellite programming, or to play a jingle, liner, or splitter as a part of satellite programming.
XStudio 3 Start Play from the Log If a Start Play from the log task is used in an action list and the current operating mode is Satellite, do not use a Timer task to delay the action list execution until the end of the break. In Satellite mode, the length of the break is picked up from the break log directive and passed back to the action list, signaling the action to "wait" the logged break length before continuing on to the next item in the action list.
Reference 213 5.8.9.1 Using Cart Macro Characters To use cart number macro characters, enter the appropriate macro as a part of the cart number. Supported Cart Number Macro Characters Macro Usage ## Current Voice Number (2-character string) Whenever these characters are encountered in a cart number, they are replaced by the current global Voice Number value.
XStudio 3 Values returned are shown in this table. Day Value Monday 1 Tuesday 2 Wednesday 3 Thursday 4 Friday 5 Saturday 6 Sunday 7 Hour of Day Values Hour of Day macro characters will return different one-character values, depending on the specific macro character used. The main differences occur between any 12-hour format and any 24-hour format. Values returned by each format type are listed in this table.
Reference Hour of Day 12-Hour Format 24-Hour Format 7 PM 7 J 8 PM 8 K 9 PM 9 L 10 PM A M 11 PM B N © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
XStudio 3 5.8.10 Stop Play Task The Stop Play task is used to stop playing audio - either audio playing on a specific channel or a specific cart number. Stop Play Properties Items with a check mark in the REQ column require user entry, while unchecked items have default values which can optionally be changed. Property REQ Description Task Name The user-friendly name of the task. See Common Properties for more information. Play Channel The channel on which to stop audio. The default is channel 1.
Reference 217 When a specific channel is selected, all carts playing on the selected channel are stopped. The Stop Play task is commonly used when transitioning from local automated programming to satellite programming and, after switching to the satellite program service, it is desirable to stop all carts that might be playing.
XStudio 3 5.8.11 Switcher Fade Task The Switcher Fade task is used to fade audio on a selected channel, either a fade up or fade down. Currently, the only switchers that support this task are the Broadcast Tools ACS 8.2 family of audio switchers and the Broadcast Tools ADMS 44.22. The fade duration is controlled by the switcher's fade settings.
Reference Property Channel to Fade 219 REQ Description Select the number of the audio channel to fade. Use the [Show Map] button to display a list of channel labels for the selected switcher. Show Map Dialog The [Show Map] button displays the input and output channel labels as they are assigned to the switcher resource. It is used as a reference when selecting a channel to fade.
XStudio 3 5.8.12 System Backup Task The System Backup task is used to perform a backup of the XStudio system database files and optionally, other XStudio preference and settings files. Audio inventory database files are not backed up with this task. The audio inventory database is automatically maintained and will be rebuilt automatically if needed. The backed-up files can be used to manually restore database tables, preferences and settings if needed.
Reference Property 221 REQ Description The Backup Target Folder must be set up from the point-of-view (POV) of XStudio and the logged in user must have read and write privileges in the Backup Target Folder. If these conditions are not met, the backup task will fail. Backup Type The selected type dictates where backed-up files are located. If the "Single" option is selected, backup files are located directly in the Backup Target Folder.
XStudio 3 5.8.13 Timer Task The Timer task is essentially a "delay" or "wait" command. When a timer task is executed in a running Action, the Action "waits" for the timer duration before moving on to the next task in the action list. If a Start Play from the log task is used in an action list and the current operating mode is Satellite, do not use a Timer task to delay the action list execution until the end of the break.
Reference Property REQ Description Maximum timer length is 23:59:59:990. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
XStudio 3 5.8.14 Update DOut Task The Update DOut task is used to send an outbound relay pulse from an audio switcher that supports this functionality. The relay pulse might be used to turn on a light or start some other device. Some audio switchers support additional outbound relay functionality, including toggling the relay on (closed) and holding it on (closed). This task supports pulse output only. The duration of the pulse is controlled by the audio switcher settings.
Reference Property DOut to Pulse 225 REQ Description This property sets the specific DOut to pulse. As the value is changed, the selected DOut description is displayed, as shown in the example. Show Map Dialog The [Show Map] button displays the DOut identification labels as they are assigned to the switcher resource. It is used as a reference when selecting a DOut to pulse.
XStudio 3 5.8.15 Update Switcher Task The Update Switcher task is used to set channel states on an audio switcher. Channels can be explicitly turned on and off or left alone in their current state. You must set at least one channel on or off for the task to be valid. Changes cannot be saved until at least one channel is turned on or off.
Reference 227 Update Switcher task - change entire row pop-up menu displayed Show Map Dialog The [Show Map] button displays the input and output channel labels as they are assigned to the switcher resource. It is used as a reference when setting a channel's state. The channel list can be printed, saved to a file or copied to the Windows clipboard using a pop-up menu that appears when you [Right-Click] on the channel list.
XStudio 3 Example 16x4 Update Switcher Dialog © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 229 5.8.16 Use Existing Action Task The Use Existing Action task is used to "nest" an Action within a running Action's task list. As this task is about to be executed in an action task list, it is checked like any other task to see if it is valid for the current mode of operation, day of week and time of day. If this criteria is not met, the entire action referenced by this task is skipped.
XStudio 3 If this task passes validation, then the assigned action's list of tasks is performed, in order, subject to each individual member task being validated. When the assigned action's task list has been completed, any other tasks contained in the master action list following this task are validated and performed. The flow diagram shown displays graphically the order of execution.
Reference 5.9 231 Using the Audio Clipboard The XStudio audio clipboard is located immediately below the main display playback decks and to the right of the log. The clipboard is used to create a list of carts for ad hoc playback on decks 2, 3 and 4. XStudio Audio Clipboard You can place items in the clipboard from the log or from the audio inventory list. The order of items in the audio clipboard can be controlled by dragging the items up or down in the list.
XStudio 3 & 4 [Play] buttons, deck 2, 3 & 4 (if enabled) remote starts, deck 2, 3 & 4 keyboard remote start shortcuts, and by dragging a clipboard item onto any playback deck and dropping it. When you use a [Play] button or remote start method, the top item in the clipboard is played on the selected playback deck and the clipboard item is removed. To play items from the clipboard, the playback deck source must be set to the clipboard ([Que]).
Reference 233 To toggle the visibility of the audio clipboard, click on the splitter control. If the clipboard is visible, it will be hidden. If hidden, the clipboard will become visible. To change the width of the clipboard display, press and hold the [Left] mouse button on the splitter control, then move the mouse left or right to increase or decrease the width.
5.10 XStudio 3 Using the Cart Distribution/Include List Panel Audio files used by XStudio contain a distribution list that historically has been used to determine whether or not a given audio work station is permitted to use the file in DCS and Maestro systems.
Reference 5.11 235 Using the Cart Mask Edit Panel Some portions of XStudio require the entry of cart masks for one purpose or another. When cart masks need to be added, edited or deleted, the Cart Mask Edit Panel is displayed. The panel is intended to make the tasks associated with cart mask maintenance easier and more foolproof with buttons for adding, editing and deleting cart masks. Add Mask Button When the Add Mask button is clicked, a dialog appears for entry of the new cart mask.
XStudio 3 other letters or numbers that match up with cart types that you wish to have grouped together. Examples of valid cart mask include: Mask Result C??? Carts beginning with the letter "C" and any 2nd, 3rd and 4th character will be included. PR?? Carts with the first two characters of "PR" and any 3rd and 4th character will be included. ?R?? Carts with any first character, a second character of "R" and any 3rd and 4th characters will be included.
Reference 5.12 237 Using the Color Customization Dialog The Color Customization Dialog is a standard Windows dialog for selecting and/or creating colors, similar to the example shown. Color Customization Dialog (expanded) All of the standard methods for creating custom colors are available in this dialog.
5.13 XStudio 3 Using a Remote Database As a default, XStudio creates and maintains a local database with complete control over it. No other applications are allowed access to the data or to the files that comprise the database unless you explicitly allow remote access to the local database for remote administration of the automation data using XStudio Admin. A second option available is to use a centralized, remote database server typically located on another PC.
Reference 239 location. Retrieve Servers Available on the Local Area Network If the database servers you will be maintaining are on your local area network, use the [Get Srvr List] button, which broadcasts a message asking for available servers to respond. In order for the broadcast messaging to work, certain TCP/IP ports must be available for use and not blocked by a firewall.
XStudio 3 Enter in the server name and click the [OK] button to add it to the server list. The correct entry format for manually adding a server is in the format "Name@Address", where the "Name" portion is whatever the name assigned by the host application is, the "Address" portion is the IP address or resolvable network path, and the "@" symbol separates the two. Example Server Name Entries Server names can be entered in any of these formats: Entry Syntax Description XStudio_KCRM@192.168.110.
Reference 241 database server will have the user name and password entered automatically for you, avoiding a prompt to manually enter them. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
XStudio 3 5.13.2 TCP/IP Port Information In order for XStudio to communicate with a remote database server, certain TCP/IP ports must be available for use and not blocked by a firewall. This applies to both the XStudio PC and the PC running the database server application. If you launch XStudio and see a Windows message similar to the following, you either need to tell Windows to unblock the port or manually unblock the port.
Reference Port Type Port Number Usage servers. Useful only on the local area network. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
5.14 XStudio 3 Using the XStudio Cart Wall The XStudio Cart Wall displays 300 programmable hot buttons in 10 pages (tabs), each containing 30 buttons, in a pop-up window that can be positioned and sized as desired. Buttons can be programmed to play audio, execute an XStudio Action or if connected to a host Maestro or DCS system, execute a host-system-defined function. XStudio Cart Wall Cart Wall Features The XStudio Cart Wall has been designed to be as flexible and easy-to-use as possible.
Reference 245 Automatic button color scheme for playback buttons. Drag an item from the XStudio log or inventory list and if the cart number falls within any of the defined Cart Categories, the category colors are automatically applied to the button. The Hot Button Configuration dialog allows user to apply last-used color combinations or a user-defined default color combination. A Clear Page button that allows users to clear (reset) an entire page of buttons with a single mouse click.
XStudio 3 All Hot Button Toolbars Each toolbar has a quick customize button displayed at the end of a docked toolbar and on the caption title of a floating toolbar. Clicking on the quick customize button activates a popup menu which contains a list of buttons on that toolbar. You can select the ones you wish to display and uncheck the ones you want to hide. All the toolbars are gone - how do I get them back? Since each toolbar can be hidden, it's possible you might at some point hide them all.
Reference 247 Button Usage Size Select one of the available font sizes from the drop-down list. The text size of all buttons is immediately updated. Bold Attribute Click to toggle bold text on and off. All buttons are immediately updated. Playback Deck Select one of the playback decks available in the drop-down list to set the default playback deck for the current button set. Buttons currently configured are unaffected.
XStudio 3 Clearing a page cannot be undone. Make sure you really want to remove all buttons' configuration info on the page and that the selected page is really the one you want to clear. Clearing an entire page has the same effect as if you cleared each button one-by-one. It resets every button on the selected page to the default "not configured" properties.
Reference 249 Available buttons and their usage are outlined in the table below. Button Usage Open This button displays an open file dialog listing available button files in the current folder. You can navigate to other folders as needed to locate previously-saved button sets. Recent This button displays a list of the most recently opened button sets. Select an item from the list to immediately open it.
5.15 XStudio 3 Using the XStudio Clock & Backtimer The XStudio clock is a floating window used to display the current time in either military or standard AM/PM time formats. In addition, the XStudio Backtimer display can be enabled. XStudio Clock The clock is disabled (hidden) as a default and does not display the very first time XStudio is launched. When XStudio is closed, the clock state (shown/ hidden, position, colors and size) is recorded and restored the next time XStudio is started.
Reference 251 Changing the Clock Appearance You can modify the clock appearance, including the time display type, size of the text, text color and background color. To do so, [Right-Click] on the clock time text to display the clock properties menu. Select the item you wish to change. Depending on the item you choose, the change will either be made immediately or you'll be prompted to make an option selection. Review details of each menu item for the clock display in the following table.
XStudio 3 Menu Item Description be reduced using the [DnArrow] and [-] keys on the numeric keypad when the window is active. Backtimer Text (Ctrl -) When selected, the text size of the backtimer text is made smaller, down to a minimum of 13 points. The text size can also be reduced using the [Ctrl-DnArrow] and [Ctrl -] keys on the numeric keypad when the window is active.
Reference 253 Because the backtimer is an integral part of the clock display, if the backtimer is shown, the clock display is also forced to a visible state. When hiding the backtimer, though, the clock remains visible unless explicitly hidden. How the Backtimer Works To arrive at the over/under value, the remaining air play time of any item playing in Deck 1 (the on-air channel) is summed with amount of content remaining in a given hour, starting with the "Next-to-Play" item on the log.
XStudio 3 Backtimer Notes Here are some additional points of interest that apply to the XStudio Backtimer: 1. When calculating the remaining playable log content, it is always calculated forward from the current "Next-to-Play" position on the log to the end of the current actual clock hour. If the Nextto-Play item is in a previous hour, remaining content is the sum of playable items between Next-toPlay and the end of the current hour on the log.
Reference 5.16 255 Using the XStudio Intro Countdown Timer Using the XStudio Intro Countdown Timer is optional and depends on the log having intro times included in the music items. Intro times are generally provided via a music scheduling system's exported music log, but can be entered directly by editing a log item. The intro time value is located in the log record's Type Code field.
XStudio 3 Intro Countdown Timer Options Menu You can change the size of the countdown timer dialog and enable or disable its auto-hide feature by using the dialog's popup menu. [Right-Click] on the Intro Countdown Timer dialog to display the options menu. Intro Countdown Timer Pop-Up Options Menu Menu Item Description Enlarge Size When selected, the text size of the displayed time is made larger, up to a maximum of 120 points.
Reference 5.17 257 Using the XStudio Message Center The XStudio Message Center is a floating dialog used to display text messages that originate from the execution of a Banner Message task. When this task type is executed, the XStudio Message Center dialog is automatically shown. The Message Center background and text colors, duration of the message and whether or not text blinks are controlled by the Banner Message task properties.
XStudio 3 Menu Item Description Auto-Hide on Message Expiration Click on this menu item to toggle whether or not the Message Center hides itself when a message that has an assigned duration expires. If the menu item is checked, the auto-hide feature is enabled. The default is to not hide the Message Center when a message expires (unchecked). Clear Current Message Select this menu item to manually clear the current message.
Reference 259 To hide the history list, click on the [Hide History] link at the lower-left-corner of the Message Center text panel. The Message Center history list can be printed or saved to a file if desired. Refer to the previous section on Message Center Menu Options for additional information. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
5.18 XStudio 3 Using the XStudio Music Search Dialog The Music Search Dialog is a tool for quickly finding songs by cart number, song title or artist. Partial match searches and a set of filtering and grouping functions are built in. Music information displayed in this dialog comes from the XStudio music data table, which is normally created by importing song information from a music scheduling system export. If the music data table is empty, the dialog does not display.
Reference 261 XStudio Music Search Dialog Finding Songs Using the Search Panel The most common way of locating a particular song is to use the search panel, located at the top of the dialog. Enter a portion of the title or artist you're looking for, select the column (Cart Number, Title, Artist) in which to look from the drop-down list of columns and select the search option (either search from beginning of field or anywhere in the field). Click on the [Search] button.
XStudio 3 Finding Songs Using Quick Filter The Quick Filter is a convenient way of locating all songs matching your search text. Once you've entered the text to search for, selected the column to search and set search options, click on the [Filter] button. Filtering is activated and only those songs matching your search text are displayed, as shown. Songs filtered by Artist When you use the Quick Filter, the display indicates that filtering is active, as shown above.
Reference 263 Grouping Songs by Artist Grouping songs by Artist is a handy feature that organizes songs by artist and presents you with a display similar to the example shown. Grouping by Artist is useful if you're looking for a song by a particular artist and want to know what titles are available. Songs grouped by Artist To group music by Artist, [Left-Click] on the Artist column header and hold the mouse button down. Drag the header into the group panel immediately above the displayed data.
XStudio 3 negative effects as filtering does not change the underlying music data - filtering merely changes which songs are displayed. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Reference 5.19 265 Using the XStudio Relay Queue Maintenance Dialog When a Start Play Task that uses a Cart Rotation List is executed for the first time, XStudio invisibly adds the task to its relay queue manager. The relay queue manager is responsible for rotating the items in the Cart Rotation List for those tasks that have multiple cart numbers assigned to the list. When the task is executed a second and subsequent times while XStudio is running, cart number rotation occurs.
XStudio 3 Relay Queue Maintenance Dialog Changing the Current Voice Value To modify the XStudio global Current Voice value, select the "Current Voice" field and type in the 2character voice value you want to become the new Current Voice. The new value will be updated in XStudio when you close the dialog by clicking on the [OK] button. To discard the changes you made to the Current Voice field, click on the [Cancel] button, which closes the dialog with saving the change.
Reference 267 Active Relay Queue Items There might be a circumstance where you would like to remove the an item from the managed list - for instance, if you have significantly modified the rotation list in the task and essentially want to "start over" with the cart rotation list. To remove an active relay queue item from the list, select the item in the list and click on the [-] (Delete) button on the data navigator located at the bottom of the list. You can also use the [Delete] key.
XStudio 3 Active Relay Queue Item Selected As a queue item is selected, the Queue Item Properties panel is updated and displays the task's Rotation List and the item that is Next-to-Play in the rotation. The Queue Items Properties panel is where changes to the selected item are made. Changes made to a relay queue item are in effect for the current XStudio session only. When XStudio is closed and restarted, all tasks are returned to their default next-to-play value and cart rotation lists.
Reference 269 If changes have been made to a relay queue item and you attempt to select a different relay queue item, you will be prompted that there are unsaved changes and given the opportunity to save them, abandon the changes or cancel the selection of another relay queue item. Closing the Relay Queue Maintenance Dialog To close the dialog, click on the [OK] or [Cancel] button.
5.20 XStudio 3 Using the XStudio Switcher Status Dialog When you are using an audio switcher with XStudio, you can optionally display a status dialog that shows you the status of each of audio channels. Each time XStudio makes a change, the status display is updated. The status display is a floating window that can be moved around to your preferred position. It's size is fixed, based on the active audio switcher's number of audio input channels and audio output rows.
Reference 271 Switcher Status Pop-up Options Menu Menu Item Description Refresh Channel Status When selected, XStudio forces the audio switcher to re-send audio channel status data, thus updating the display. This is useful if you have manually changed a channel on the switcher by selecting the channel on the hardware itself. Enable Channel On/Off Toggle When this item is checked, toggling any of the displayed audio channels is enabled.
5.21 XStudio 3 XEngine Reference As a default, XStudio is supplied with XEngine, an audio playback engine that handles the actual playback of audio files. This separates the task of playing audio from the main application, which manages which audio items to play and when they are to be played or stopped, along with coordinating automated activity. In fact, if you close XStudio while audio is playing and do not close XEngine, the audio will continue to play until playback is completed.
Reference 273 5.21.2 Using XEngine Under most circumstances, you will not interact with XEngine. XEngine functions as an audio server engine, processing commands from another application. The client application, in this case XStudio, communicates directly via TCP/IP, issuing audio playback and stop play commands as needed or initiated by the end-user. You do, however, need to ensure that XEngine is running so that it can service the requests of the client.
XStudio 3 XEngine User Interface As mentioned, XEngine normally hides itself from the user, displaying only an icon on the Task Bar. You can, though, display the user interface if desired. To do so, [Double-Click] on the XEngine Task Bar icon. XEngine User Interface The main display, shown above, contains just a few key components, including basic information on any audio currently playing and a VU meter for each stream of audio being played. Here's an overview of the key components: Title Bar.
Reference 275 XEngine Main Menu The table below provides details on each of the main menu items. Menu Item Description Open TCPIP This item opens the specific TCP/IP port assigned to XEngine for communications with XStudio. Under normal circumstances, the communications port is automatically opened, but should a port conflict occur and you correct the conflict, you can use this menu item to try to reopen communications. Close TCPIP This item closes the assigned TCP/IP port.
XStudio 3 As you can see from the example shown, the menu contains items for stopping the play of each of the three (3) audio streams supported for each channel. To stop a particular cart, select the menu item corresponding to the stream being used to play the cart. In each channel panel, stream numbers are ordered top to bottom - 1, 2 & 3. 5.21.3 What's New in XEngine This section documents changes and enhancements to XEngine by version number. Version 3.0.0.15 (Single-Instance) 1. Enhancement.
Troubleshooting Part VI
XStudio 3 XStudio has been designed to be as trouble-free as possible and has been thoroughly tested. However, not every usage scenario can be anticipated. This section is intended as a starting point for diagnosing and solving problems but should not be viewed as an all-encompassing source of problem resolution. If the difficulty you’re experiencing is not covered here, contact the dealer who provided you with XStudio first. Alternatively, you can contact dcsTools.
Troubleshooting 279 documentation for adding such a printer (actually, print driver) and configuring it properly. A commonly-used print driver is the Microsoft XPS Document Writer, which is available as a default on operating systems from Windows XP forward. 7. Make sure that you have adequate hard disk storage for files XStudio generates. XStudio can generate a significant amount of event data as system performance and actions are tracked throughout the day.
6.2 XStudio 3 AV When Starting or Stopping XStudio If you are running XStudio as standard user (one without administrative privileges), under certain circumstances you might get an error when starting up or closing down XStudio. An error message similar to the example shown may appear. Note part of the example error text refers to being "Unable to create the file...".
Troubleshooting 281 of troubleshooting XStudio connection and communications problems for each type of host. 6.3.1 XStudio Fails to Connect to XEngine Here are the main items to check when XStudio complains that it cannot connect to XEngine: 1. Ensure that XEngine is running on the host PC. Check the task bar for the XEngine icon or launch Task Manager to see if XEngine is listed as a running task. 2.
XStudio 3 Connection section is “127.0.0.1”. If it has been changed from the default, reenter this value. 7. If XStudio and rcServer are running on different PC’s, a firewall may be preventing communications on the ports being used. You may have to consult with your LAN administrator to determine this. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Troubleshooting 6.4 283 Remote Database Problems If you are using a centralized database server instead of the default local database, you may encounter problems with connecting to the database or encounter performance problems. This section covers the most common issues encountered. You should also review the Using a Remote Database topic, which covers basic information on TCP/IP ports used for the remote database and the correct naming conventions for assigning a remote database server. 6.4.
XStudio 3 remote database PC. The lower the bandwidth, the more time it takes to get the data from the remote database server and the longer it takes for the display to be updated. While there is no substitute for bandwidth, performance problems can be mitigated somewhat when working with a remote database that is not on your local area network.
Troubleshooting 6.5 285 Session Properties During operation, XStudio keeps track of a number of bits of information, called session properties, that affect program execution.
6.6 XStudio 3 Using Application Event Logs XStudio documents its actions by writing information to a set of daily event logs, which are automatically maintained for a user-specified number of days. Event logs are text files containing a time stamp for each line of information (record) and descriptive text about what happened or what was done by XStudio. Event logs are very useful in troubleshooting problems or simply trying to determine why XStudio performed in a certain way.
Troubleshooting 287 Reviewing Event Logs Outside of XStudio Since XStudio event logs are text files, you can use virtually any text editor or text file viewer to review the information for any of the available event log files, which are stored in the XStudio application folder using a naming conventions of: yyyymmdd_XStudio_EventLog.txt (main application event log) yyyymmdd_InvMgr_EventLog.txt (InvMgr event log) yyyymmdd_InvMgr_MaintThread_EventLog.
XStudio 3 an individual user but more commonly are assigned to a user group of which the user is a member. 2. If you are placing files in a location other than the XStudio folder, file locations that are set up in the Preferences area, ensure that the named user has read, write, modify and delete privileges in that folder location. 3. One way that some issues can be overcome is to modify any XStudio shortcuts to cause the application to be run under administrator privileges.
Troubleshooting 6.8 289 XStudio "Hangs" on Shutdown Under certain circumstances, XStudio may appear to "hang" when shutting down. The main dialog will disappear and it will appear as though XStudio has closed. However, CPU utilization may reach 99% (on single processor PC's) and if you look at the "Processes" page in Task Manager, you find XStudio listed with a very high CPU value. This problem is almost always caused by insufficient user rights in the XStudio folder.
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Contacting dcsTools.
XStudio 3 If you need to contact dcsTools.com, you can do so using one of the following methods. We are here to help, so do not hesitate to communicate with us when needed. Mailing Address C-R Media 8494 Saratoga Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55347 USA Telephone Information Sales and Technical Support can be reached from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, U.S Central Time. Voice: 952-949-9450 FAX: 952-949-9448 Email Information To contact us via email, use our on-line contact form.
Appendices Part VIII
8.1 XStudio 3 Registration XStudio requires a valid registration code to enable full use of the product. If you have purchased XStudio, you should have received a registration code or instructions on how to obtain your registration code with your installation materials. The registration code contains the product serial number and is unique to each PC on which XStudio is installed.
Appendices 295 Registering XStudio Register XStudio by selecting Help | Register from the main menu. You'll be presented with a dialog similar to the following: XStudio Registration Dialog Enter the company name and/or call letters in the "Licensed To" field. Then, enter the code you were supplied with in the "Registration Code" field. If you received the registration code electronically, you may use standard Windows cut and paste methods to paste the code in the field.
XStudio 3 To get the registration process started, copy both the MID and Site Code information displayed on the trial dialog. You can use a mouse to select and copy each of the two codes to the Windows clipboard, if you wish, to avoid handwriting the information. Both the MID and Site Code need to be sent to your supplier so the registration unlock code can be generated. The apt-X registration dialog normally closes after several seconds if no action is taken by the user.
Appendices 297 codes for future use. 5. When you receive the Init Code, launch the application that uses the apt-X software. The apt-X dialog will again appear. Select the “Unlock Application” radio button and enter the Init Code you received. Click on the [Continue] button. The registration information is recorded and the apt-X software is now registered.
8.2 XStudio 3 System Backup and Restore As XStudio is running, a significant number of database tables, preference and settings files are being created, updated and maintained. These files contain the key elements of your system setup and operating information. As such, a total loss of some or all of the files - as might occur if the host PC fails - can leave you with the formidable task of rebuilding your system configuration manually.
Appendices 299 4. Hot button file sets. These files have a file extension of ".btn". 5. Exported station information files. These files have a file extension of ".stns". Refer to the List of Files topic for details on specific file names in this group of file types. When backing up non-database systems files, only those files located in the XStudio application folder are backed up. For instance, if you have placed hot button files in another location, they will not be backed up.
XStudio 3 Restoring Preference and Settings Files All backed-up preference and settings files originated from the XStudio application folder and must be restored to that same folder. The application folder is determined by the user during the installation of XStudio. Backed-up preference and settings files are not interrelated, so you can selectively restore these files depending on your needs.
Appendices 8.3 301 Remote Start Interface If you wish to use the remote starts feature of XStudio, you need to have an available game port (joystick port) on the PC on which XStudio is running. Furthermore, you will need to wire a connector using the diagram provided here. XStudio uses the associated buttons 1, 2, 3 and optionally, 4, to remote start carts in its respective cart decks (Deck 1, Deck 2, Deck 3, Deck 4).
8.4 XStudio 3 Companion Programs & Utilities In addition to the core functionality for audio playback that XStudio provides, there are a number of separate software programs and utilities available for use with XStudio. These programs offer functionality that may or may not be required by a particular station operation; thus they are made available separately so a station can pick and choose only the additions that are needed.
Appendices 8.5 303 Using XStudio with DCS or Maestro XStudio can be used to control a host DCS or Maestro system via these products' serial remote control interface. The effect of such a configuration is that the DCS or Maestro unit becomes the XStudio audio engine, replacing the use of the standard XEngine audio engine. XStudio uses TCP/IP to communicate with the host audio engine and both DCS and Maestro use serial data. To convert TCP/IP to serial and vice versa, dcsTools' rcServer is used.
8.6 XStudio 3 List of Files When XStudio is installed, a number of files are placed on your computer. As XStudio is used, other files are generated, as outlined in this topic. Long file names are word-wrapped to a second line to save space. References to folder locations on your system are abbreviated, as follows: Abbreviation Folder Location AppDir = The application folder where XStudio was installed. LogDir = A given station's source log folder.
Appendices 305 Files Created by XStudio These files are created and maintained by XStudio as a part of daily operations or as a result of updates to the software. File Name Location Description _Pending_AR.dat AppDir A data file containing pending audit records. This file is created when XStudio is closed and there are items that have not yet completed playback. yyyymmdd_InvMgr_EventLog.txt AppDir Daily Inventory Manager event log file. As a default, a rolling 14 days are retained.
XStudio 3 File Name Location Description XStudio.ini AppDir The XStudio preferences file. Actions.nx1 AppDir\Data The Actions table. Events.nx1 AppDir\Data The Scheduled Events table. ExtDevices.nx1 AppDir\Data The external devices (audio switcher) table. LogData.nx1 AppDir\Data The Log Data table containing log snapshot and splice information. Music.nx1 AppDir\Data The Music table containing song title and artist information. nxTrans.
Appendices 307 File Name Location Description *.stns AppDir Station info files. Files with this extension are created when a user exports station information from Preferences. Some XStudio installations include additional documentation files. These files are typically PDF files and are placed in the application folder. Additional documentation files may include an on-disk Operations Manual and Quick Start Guide. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
8.7 XStudio 3 Preferences File Documentation XStudio application settings are stored in a file named XStudio.ini, a Windows ini file. The settings are maintained automatically. However, should you for some reason need to make manual changes to XStudio settings, you can open the settings file using Notepad or some other editor that works with standard text files or is especially used for Windows ini files. The following information documents XStudio ini file sections and parameters (Key/Value pairs).
Appendices Property Description ShowDeck4 Determines whether playback deck 4 is visible. ShowQueue2 Determines whether the audio clipboard is visible. WrapLog Determines whether or not XStudio will replay the current log if the end of the log is reached. This setting is overridden based on the current operating mode. 309 [Bxxx] Sections These sections contain configuration information for hot buttons. There is a section for each button, with the xxx indicating the button number.
XStudio 3 Property Description Count The number of defined cart categories BkColorxx The background color that will used on the log for carts matching the category. Colorxx The text color that will be used on the log for carts matching the category. Masksxx A comma-separated list of cart masks that comprise the category. Namexx The user-assigned name of the category. The name is used to identify the category when displayed in drop-down lists.
Appendices Property Description ExpFG Text color of expired carts in inventory lists. FutBG Background color of future-dated carts in inventory lists. FutFG Text color of future-dated carts in inventory lists. LogFontBold If True, all text on the log is displayed as bold. LogFontName The name of the font used in the log display. LogFontSize The log text size. LogNoteBG Background color of Log Note log items. LogNoteFG Text color of Log Note log items.
XStudio 3 Property Description AllowRemoteConnections If True, a local database can be administered remotely. ClientDataCompression If the database is remote, this value determines the level of data compression used when communicating with the remote database server. DefRemSrvrPassword The password, if required, used to login to a remote database server. The password value is encrypted. DefRemSrvrUserName The user name, if required, used to login to a remote database server.
Appendices 313 Property Description RemSrvrSecureKey_xx The remote server security key, if applicable. This value is encrypted. RemSrvrUserName_xx The remote server user name, if required. RemoteServer_xx The remote server name and IP address. RemoteServerPort_xx The remote server port number. ServerCount The count of defined remote servers. [dxMusicSearchDlg_MRU] Section This section contains properties associated with the most recent searches conducted in the Music Search Dialog.
XStudio 3 up External Control Port properties for additional information. Property Description BaudRate The COM port baud rate for the external control port. COMPort The COM port number used for external control. Enabled If True, the external control COM port is opened and available for use by Tasks that send data via this port. [FileViewDlg] Section A number of text file viewing dialogs use the properties in this section.
Appendices Property 315 Description assigned. EmergencyActionName The user-entered name of the defined emergency Action. EventLogDetail The default level of detail that will be kept in the XStudio application event log, expressed as a number. LengthCheck When validating a log, this value determines the allowable variance between the logged length and the actual length of an audio cart. Licensed To The name of the person or business to whom XStudio is licensed.
XStudio 3 Property Description and is displayed or hidden based on user preference. Height The height of the XStudio Cart Wall window. Last_Btn_BG_Color The last background color used when configuring a hot button, if different from the default background color. Last_Btn_FG_Color The last foreground (text) color used when configuring a hot button, if different from the default foreground color. LastFolder The last folder used to open a hot button configuration file.
Appendices 317 [LogSearchDlg] Section This section controls default or last-used properties for searching the log. Property Description Type The last search type performed (cart number or description), expressed as a number. [LogSearchMRU] Section This section contains property settings for the search dialog used when reviewing log snapshots. Property Description BackwardSearch If True, searches will proceed backwards from the current log item.
XStudio 3 Property Description CopyLogDescToTitle If True, the contents of the Description field of non-music items on the log are copied to the Title field in order to enable hiding the standard Description field. CopyInvDescToLogDesc If True, the Description field of non-music items on the log use the matching cart's inventory description instead of the original log record's description.
Appendices Property Description Top The top-edge position of the main display. Width The width (in pixels) of the main display. 319 [MusicData] Section This section contains information relating to music database import and export. See the topic on Music Data for more information. Property Description AutoUpdateAppendRecords If True, when automatically updating music data, the source data is appended to existing data.
XStudio 3 Property Description EnableDoubleClick If True, [Double-Click] on a calendar date opens the log for that date, if present. [Params] Section This section contains system parameters and properties relating to audio file handling and inventory generation. These properties are maintained in Preferences | Audio Properties. Property Description AppLogMaxDays The number of days to retain XStudio daily application event logs.
Appendices 321 Property Description OutPutDevName2 The Windows device name of playback channel 2 (Deck 2). OutPutDevName3 The Windows device name of playback channel 3 (Deck 3). OutPutDevName4 The Windows device name of playback channel 4 (Deck 4). OutPutDevice The Windows device number of the primary playback channel (channel 1) for Deck 1. OutPutDevice2 The Windows device number for playback channel 2 (Deck 2). OutPutDevice3 The Windows device number for playback channel 3 (Deck 3).
XStudio 3 [Stations] Section This section contains information for Stations defined for program execution in XStudio. Station information is maintained in Preferences | Stations. Property Description Count The number of defined stations. InvFile_xx If an external audio inventory file is used for a station, this entry contains the fully-qualified path and file name. LogPath_xx The folder location of program logs for the defined station. StnGUID_xx The unique ID of the defined station.
Appendices Property Description the same PC as XStudio, the address is 127.0.0.1. ListenPort The TCP/IP port is used for control and response communications with the audio server engine (XEngine). UserName A user-assigned name that identifies XStudio to the host audio engine. XfrPort A TCP/IP port reserved for transferring file data between XStudio and XEngine and is not presently used. It is for future expansion. [ValidateCCCLog] Section This section contains general properties for Log Validation.
XStudio 3 Property Description HTMLSaveAll Determines whether all or just selected log records are exported to HTML format. LastExcelFile The path and file name of the last file exported to the Excel format. LastHTMLFile The path and file name of the last file exported to the HTML format. LastTextFile The path and file name of the last file exported to the Text format. LastXMLFile The path and file name of the last file exported to the XML format.
Appendices 325 Definition An initialization file, or INI file, is a configuration file that contains configuration data for Microsoft Windows based applications. Starting with Windows 95, the INI file format was superseded but not entirely replaced by a registry database in Microsoft operating systems. Recently, XML became a popular choice for encoding configuration, as well as other kinds of data for many applications, but INI format is still in widespread use.
8.8 XStudio 3 Generic Log File Specification The Generic Log File Specification documents the file naming convention and record structure for logs created for use with XStudio. This specification was originally published by Computer Concepts Corporation, Lenexa, KS in 1989 and updated to version 1.5 in October 1991. The specification was released to all interested parties, including traffic system vendors and music scheduling system vendors.
Appendices 327 Log File Name Log files are named in such a way as to provide for one unique file for each day of each year for each station. This allows usage of a single file folder location for all stations in a multi-station environment. Log file names have the form MMDDYYxx.LOG, where: MM = Month (01-12) DD = Day (01-31) YY = Year (00-99) xx = Station Number (any 2 characters in 0..9, A..Z) .
XStudio 3 Original versions of Computer Concepts Corporation documentation specified some fields should be "padded with nulls," meaning using the null character (Decimal 0, Hex 00) to fill unused byte positions at the end of the field. Over time, the accepted method became filling the unused byte positions with the space character (Decimal 32, Hex 20). The term Freeform is used in the possible values column to indicate that the field value can be standard text of your choosing (i.e.
Appendices 8.8.2 Commercial Record Type The commercial record type is used to identify audio items that appear on the log.
8.8.3 XStudio 3 Directive Record Type The directive record type is used to communicate special directions to XStudio, hence the term "directive". There are six (6) specific directives, each with its own record format. Base Directive Record Type The first 7 bytes of a directive record are formatted in three (3) fields, as shown. The remaining 62 bytes differ based on the value of the Directive Type field (bytes 6 & 7).
Appendices Bytes Len Description Possible Values 01 1 Record Type D = Directive 02-05 4 Time in HHMM format 0000 - 2359 06-07 2 Directive Type LW - Load Window 08-11 4 Relay Number 99 (Current Voice) 12-31 20 Blanks 32-61 30 Description Freeform 62-67 6 Blanks 68-69 2 CR/LF Carriage Return/Line Feed Total 69 331 Load Stopset Directive These directive types are the most commonly used of the directives.
XStudio 3 Bytes Len Description Possible Values 06-07 2 Directive Type PC - Play Cart 08-12 5 Length in MMMSS 00000 - 99959 (Right-Justified) 13-16 4 Cart Number 4 alphanumeric characters 17-20 4 Commercial Type Same as Commercial Record 21-27 7 Blanks 28-31 4 Product Code Freeform 32-60 29 Description Freeform 61-66 6 Customer Number Freeform 67 1 Blank 68-69 2 CR/LF Carriage Return/Line Feed Total 69 © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media
Appendices 8.8.4 333 Program Title Record Type The program title record type is used to identify programs on the log. Bytes 8.8.
8.8.7 XStudio 3 Generic Log Construction Guidelines In order for the generic log to be properly executed by the host audio system, certain guidelines need to be followed in constructing and/or exporting the log. This topic provides basic guidelines intended to ensure that the generic log executes properly on the host system. The original specification published by Computer Concepts Corporation, Lenexa, KS, did not include log construction guidelines.
Appendices ... D0020LR00400 Load Required Brk C0020:01T118Get Well Games 00059CM C0020:02T120DENTYNE/reg or sugarfree 00029CM C0020:03T010VERNE & BUBBA'S DONUT 00049CM... ... <== <== <== <== 335 "Anchor Point" Item incremented 1 second Item incremented 1 second Item incremented 1 second Simply passing a traffic or music scheduling system "log time" through to the generic log file is the most common pitfall encountered when constructing and/or exporting a log.
8.9 XStudio 3 Audit File Specification The Generic Audit File Specification documents the file naming convention and record structure for audit data files created by XStudio. This specification was originally published by Computer Concepts Corporation, Lenexa, KS in 1989 and updated to version 1.6 in October 1992. The specification was released to all interested parties, including traffic system vendors and music scheduling system vendors.
Appendices 8.9.1 337 Fixed Length Segment The fixed length segment of an audit record includes information about when the event occurred, the type of event, the length of the event, and status of the event. The table describes the structure and field usage. Field Data Type (C) Description eventTime time_t The time the event occurred. "time_t" is Microsoft's C compiler v6.0A definition of the number of seconds since 00:00:00 January 1, 1970. It is a 4-byte signed integer.
XStudio 3 8.9.1.1 Transaction Types The transaction type variable is an enumerated type. Transaction type codes describe the type of activity the audio delivery system is engaged in or the base type of a problem the system encountered. Enumerated Transaction Type Displayed Transaction Code (Action) Meaning AUDIT_PLAY PlayCart A cart (audio file) is played. LOAD_WINDOW LdRelayQ A "relay queue" is being loaded.
Appendices 339 Enumerated Transaction Type Displayed Transaction Code (Action) Meaning DCS_STARTED DCSBegin DCS or Maestro is starting up. DCS_EXITED DCSEnd DCS or Maestro closed. TT_DATE_FRAME DateErr A date error has occurred. TT_NEW_CFG cfgChngd The DCS or Maestro configuration has been changed. LogChngd* A change has occurred in the broadcast log. The log was manually-edited in XStudio or updated automatically as a result of the source log changing.
XStudio 3 8.9.1.2 Status Types The status type variable is an enumerated type. Status codes provide documentation of what happened with a particular transaction initiated by the audio delivery system, generally reporting either success of the system action or the reason for failure of the action. Enumerated Status Type Displayed Status Code Meaning TXN_STARTED TXN_STARTED An action has started that may have several components who's action results are unknown at the start of the sequence.
Appendices 341 Enumerated Status Type Displayed Status Code Meaning TS_REC_FAIL_CART_ON_PLINE FailCartOnPLin The action, usually a recording, failed because the cart was on a play line at the time the action was attempted. TS_REC_FAIL_CART_IN_QUE FailCartInQue The action, usually a recording, failed because the cart was in the queue at the time the action was requested. TS_REC_FAIL_CART_EXISTS FailCartExists The action failed because the cart already exists.
XStudio 3 Enumerated Status Type Displayed Status Code Meaning based on an input relay received. TS_REC_FAIL_BAD_CARTNUM FailBadCartNum The action failed because of a bad cart number. TS_PAUSED Play Paused A cart play was paused. TS_REC_PAUSED RecPaused A recording was paused. TS_REC_RESUMED RecResumed A recording was resumed from a paused state. TS_REC_REMOTE_STOP RecRemoteStop A recording was stopped by remote control, using Computer Concepts' published control protocol.
Appendices 8.9.2 343 Variable Length Segment The variable length segment of the audit record includes 6 ASCII fields delimited by a byte having a value of 0xFF (decimal 255). The table below lists the field order and their possible lengths. Field Data Type Description cartNumber AnsiChar [ 8 ] The cart number field. If the transaction involves a cart (audio item), the cart number will be in this field. Otherwise, the field will be empty. custNum AnsiChar [ 7 ] Customer number field.
8.10 XStudio 3 Revision History This topic contains historical information on changes, enhancements and corrections to XStudio by version number and date. For the most recent changes and enhancements, see the What's New topic. Version 3.3.2.435 - 03/27/2014 1. Enhancement. Preference properties for controlling the font type and size used in the main display's inventory list have been added. These settings can be changed on the User Interface tab in Preferences. 2. Enhancement.
Appendices 345 missing and, if applicable, out-of-date carts. 4. Enhancement. A new Relay Queue Maintenance dialog has been added. The dialog displays all active Start Play tasks that use a Cart Rotation List. Cart rotations can be modified by adding, editing and deleting cart numbers in the rotation. The Next-to-Play property can also be modified. Changes made are active until XStudio is restarted. Users can also change the Current Voice setting manually in this dialog.
XStudio 3 checks to be sure the correct Action is being updated and display an error message if the update cannot be performed. 17. Fix. Very occasionally, when XStudio was creating a temporary file to store information for display, the temporary file was not correctly created and the information would not be displayed. The problem has been corrected. Version 3.2.0.330 - 09/01/2012 1. Enhancement. A hourly content back-timer has been added, integrated with the clock display.
Appendices 347 will offer to load it. As a default, if the user does not respond to the offer, the current-day log is automatically loaded and spliced with the emergency log. This new behavior occurs only in Live, Satellite and Automation modes of operation. 11. Enhancement. A menu item has been added to optionally display the inventory description in the log description field (View | Log Display | Use Inventory Description on Logs).
XStudio 3 no longer executes the Load Play directive if the break has no audio content. 22. Fix. If the Preferences property to duplicate the log description to the song title field was enabled, but the music table was empty, copying did not occur. Now, the standard log description is copied to the song title field in any case if the property is enabled. 23. Fix.
Glossary of Terms Part IX
XStudio 3 The XStudio documentation includes some words, terms, abbreviations or perhaps industry-specific "jargon" that may not be meaningful or perfectly clear to you. The table includes entries that may need additional explanation or definition, listed alphabetically. Term Meaning .DAF or DAF Refers to the generic type of audio file supported by XStudio.
Glossary of Terms Term 351 Meaning main means of playing non-music audio content to air. Usage of the term has persisted, particularly among veteran broadcasters who were active in radio during the time tape cartridge playback machines were used extensively in radio stations. Centisecond A unit of time equal to 0.01 seconds (hundredth of a second). Closure Also known as a "Cue".
XStudio 3 Term Meaning XStudio. See the topic on Log Directives for additional details. Directive Key Directive Modifier These terms refer to special characters added to a Log Directive that affect the directive's meaning and behavior. Typically, the special character is placed in the first character position of the directive's description field. For more information, review the Log Directives topic. EOM An abbreviation for End-of-Message.
Glossary of Terms Term 353 Meaning remains a dominant standard for audio broadcasting. MPEG is a "lossy" audio coding standard. MPEG is one of the types of audio files supported for playback in XStudio. (Portions from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) Next-To-Play Refers to an audio item on the log (broadcast schedule) that is marked as the next item that will be played, either when XStudio is automatically sequencing playback or when the user manually starts playback from the log.
XStudio 3 Term Meaning Wrap Log Refers to a playback option and XStudio behavior when the end of a currently executing log is encountered and there are no more audio items on the log. Depending on the operating mode and whether or not a valid next-day log exists, XStudio will "wrap around" the log - go back to the first audio item on the current log - and continue playing audio, generally a better alternative than stoppage of audio playback. © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
Index Index -AActions 114 Appendices Backup and Restore 298 Companion Programs 302 List of Files 304 Preferences File Documentation 308 Registration 294 Remote Start Interface 301 Revision History 344 Using XStudio with DCS or Maestro 303 Utilities 302 Application "Hangs" on Shutdown 289 apt-X 295 Audio Engine Properties 37 Audio Inventory 87 Audio Outputs, Selecting 34 Audio Path 32 Audio Playback Decks 2 & 3 53 From the Log 52 Hot Buttons 56 Keyboard Start 55 Options 55 Remote Start 54 Using Deck Transpo
XStudio 3 Configuration Inventory Font 45 Inventory Font Size 45 Inventory Generation 33 Log Display 43 Log Font 43 Music Fade 32 Overview 20 Remote Start 36 Security 46 Stations 27, 28, 29 UI General 43 User Interface Settings 43 Contacting dcsTools.
Index Glossary .DAF 350 apt-X 350 Audio Clipboard 350 Automatic Backfill 350 Auto-Segue 350 Aux Mark 350 Break 350 Broadcast Log 352 Cart 350 Cart Number 351 Centisecond 351 Closure 351 CMINV??.
XStudio 3 Log Appearance, Changing 81 Edit Dialogs 68 Editing a Log 65 Emergency Log 92 Opening a Log 63 Printing 90 Saving a Log 81 Searching 86 Validating a Log 93 Log Data Log Splice 131 Log Status 127 Log Directive Keys 169 Log Directives 168 Log Display Properties 43 Log Editing Blank Line Dialog 74 Common Dialog Functionality 69 Copy Commercials 86 Execute Function (Action) Dialog 77 Inserting an Open Avail 78 Load Directive Dialog 76 Load Window Dialog 77 Log Note Dialog 78 Paste Commercials 86
Index Preferences Music Fade 32 Overview 20 Stations 27 User Interface Settings 43 Printing Lists 105 Printing Logs 90 Problems Audio Playback 279 Connecting to host audio engine 280 Remote Database 283 Shutdown 280, 289 Startup 280 Programming XStudio 178 Properties Audio Engine 37 Audio Output Selection 34 Audio Settings 32 Audio Switcher 22 Cart Category 40 Database 23 Default Station 30 Event Logging 25 External Control Port 23 General UI 43 Host Audio Engine 37 Hot Buttons 59 Inventory Display Font 45
XStudio 3 Set Voice 210 Start Play 211 Stop Play 216 Switcher Fade 218 System Backup 220 Timer Task 222 Update DOut 224 Update Switcher 226 Use Existing Action 229 Timer 255 Timer Task 222 Trademarks apt-X 8 DCS 8 Maestro 8 Windows 8 Troubleshooting 278 Application Event Logs 286 Audio Playback 279 AV at shutdown 280 AV at startup 280 Connecting to the host audio engine 280 Remote Database 283 Session Properties 285 Vista 287 Windows 7 287 Windows 7, 8 & Vista Notes 287 Windows 8 287 XStudio "Hangs" on
Index -VValidating a Log 93 Vista 287 Voice Number 350 -WWarranty 12 Welcome 8 What's New in XEngine What's New in XStudio Windows 7 287 Windows 8 287 Windows Vista 287 Wrap Log Option 55 276 11 -XXEngine Reference 272 XEngine Configuration 272 © Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
© Copyright 2003-2015 C-R Media All Rights Reserved.
