EXBOX.AES User‘s Manual Version 2.
Copyright All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or electronically reproduce any document or graphic in whole or in part for any reason is expressly prohibited, unless prior written consent is obtained from the DirectOut GmbH. All trademarks and registered trademarks belong to their respective owners. It cannot be guaranteed that all product names, products, trademarks, requisitions, regulations, guidelines, specifications and norms are free from trade mark rights of third parties.
Table of contents About This Manual How to Use This Manual Conventions 5 5 5 Chapter 1: Overview Introduction Feature Summary Applications How it works 6 6 7 8 8 CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Before Installing This Device First Aid (in case of electric shock) Defective Parts/Modules Updates Intended Operation Conditions of Warranty Conformity & Certificates Contents Contact Accessory 10 10 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 16 18 Chapter 3: Installation Installing the Device 19 19 CHAPTER 4: Operation Introdu
Clocking Sample Rates Output Format Routing Embedder / De-Embedder Connecting MADI Connecting AES USB 28 30 32 34 37 40 42 43 CHAPTER 5: Menu Navigation 44 CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Troubleshooting Maintenance 46 46 48 CHAPTER 7: Technical Data 50 Appendix A - Wiring Sketches Hirose HR10 (DC PSU) DSUB-25 - AES3 DSUB-9 - RS 232 53 53 54 55 Index 56 page 4 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
About This Manual About This Manual How to Use This Manual This manual guides you through the installation and operation of the device. Use the Table of Contents at the beginning of the manual or Index Directory at the end of the document to locate help on a particular topic. You can access more information and latest news by visiting on the DirectOut website at www.directout.eu. Conventions The following symbols are used to draw your attention to: TI P S ! indicate useful hints and shortcuts.
Chapter 1: Overview Chapter 1: Overview Introduction EXBOX.AES is a handy sized AES / MADI converter for 16 audio channels. It provides bidirectional conversion between AES3 and MADI (AES10). A built in embedder / deembedder offers processing of serial data (RS 232). EXBOX.AES extends MADI environments by offering straightforward AES conversion and simplifies serial data communication with remote devices using the MADI link. page 6 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Chapter 1: Overview Feature Summary MADI Ports* 2 x SC multi-mode connectors or 1 x SC multi-mode connector 1 x coaxial BNC connectors AES Ports 8 x AES3 I/O via DSUB-25, AES59 compliant Serial Port 1 x RS 232 via DSUB-9 USB Port USB 2.0 port for firmware updates MADI Formats 56/64 channel, 48k/96k Frame, S/MUX 2/4 Sample Rates 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz +/12.5% Power Supply external, 2 x Hirose connector (9-24 V) * The device is available in two different versions - see page 17.
Chapter 1: Overview Applications EXBOX.AES can be used for conversion of MADI signals (AES10) to AES signals and vice versa. Serial data can be received at the local RS 232 port or embedded into the MADI output signal from there. Typical applications include: • AES frontend for a MADI setup • Integration of AES based equipment with remote control over RS 232 How it works 16 audio channels of the MADI input signal are routed to the eight AES output ports.
Chapter 1: Overview The local RS 232 port offers bidirectional transport of serial data that is embedded in the user bits of audio channels 1-9. The embedder / de-embedder handles four different baud rates. Further it can be switched off to process user bits of the AES inputs or it can be bypassed to preserve user bits of the MADI input signal. N OT E A MADI signal transports 64 audio channels. There are four banks with 16 channels each (4 x 16 = 64). EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Before Installing This Device WAR NING! Please read and observe all of the following notes before installing this product: • Check the hardware device for transport damage. • Any devices showing signs of mechanical damage or damage from the spillage of liquids must not be connected to the mains supply, or disconnected from the mains immediately by pulling out the power lead. • All devices must be grounded.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts First Aid (in case of electric shock) WA R N I N G ! • Do not touch the person or his/her clothing before power is turned off, otherwise you risk sustaining an electric shock yourself. • Separate the person as quickly as possible from the electric power source as follows: -- Switch off the equipment. -- Unplug or disconnect the mains cable. • Move the person away from the power source by using dry insulating material (such as wood or plastic).
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Defective Parts/Modules WAR NING! This device contains no user-serviceable parts. Therefore do not open the device. In the event of a hardware defect, please send the device to your DirectOut representative together with a detailed description of the fault. We would like to remind you to please check carefully whether the failure is caused by erroneous configuration, operation or connection before sending parts for repair.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Intended Operation The EXBOX.AES is designed for conversion between AES and MADI signals (AES10). It provides further embedding / de-embedding of serial data (RS 232). WA R N I N G ! No compensation can be claimed for damages caused by operation of this unit other than for the intended use described above. Consecutive damages are also excluded explicitly. The general terms and conditions of business of DirectOut GmbH are applied. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Conditions of Warranty This unit has been designed and examined carefully by the manufacturer and complies with actual norms and directives. Warranty is granted by DirectOut GmbH over the period of two years for all components that are essential for proper and intended operation of the device. The date of purchase is applied for this period. Consumable parts (e.g. battery) are excluded from warranty claims.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Conformity & Certificates CE This device complies with the basic requests of applicable EU guidelines. The appropriate procedure for approval has been carried out. RoHS (Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances) This device was constructed fulfilling the directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment 2002/95/EC.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Contact DirectOut GmbH Leipziger Str. 32, 09648 Mittweida, Germany Phone: +49 (0)3727 5665-100 Fax: +49 (0)3727 5665-101 Mail: sales@directout.eu www.directout.eu Contents The contents of your EXBOX.AES package include: • 1 x EXBOX.AES • 1 x external power supply unit (9 - 24 V) • 1 x Manual To complete the delivery please download from the product page on the DirectOut website (www.directout.eu): • USB Serial driver • latest firmware page 16 of 60 EXBOX.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Two different MADI I/O configurations are available: 1 x SC-Socket, 1 x BNC coaxial 2 x SC-Socket Single-Mode / Multi-Mode The SC ports are multi-mode as default. It is possible to equip the device with single-mode SC ports. The housing of single-mode ports is colored blue. multi-mode EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts Accessory BOX.MOUNT XL - for optimal rack mount of up to three devices in a 19’’ frame (No: DOAPA0886): page 18 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Chapter 3: Installation Chapter 3: Installation Installing the Device 1. Open the packaging and check that the contents have been delivered complete and undamaged. 2. Place the device on a non-slip horizontal surface. The delivered pads may be affixed to the bottom of the cabinet. Ensure a clean and dry surface before affixing the pads. WA R N I N G The synthetics of the delivered pads might cause stains on damageable surfaces.
Chapter 3: Installation 3. Remove the protective cap from the optical MADI port(s) before use. SC/SC Version BNC/SC Version NOT E ! Retain the protective cap if the optical port is unused. This will protect against soiling which can lead to malfunction. page 20 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Chapter 3: Installation 4. Connect the AES and serial signals to the device: AES3 in/out – DSUB-25 connectors RS 232 in/out – DSUB-9 connector N OT E Ensure to use appropriate cabling. To link two serial devices a cross patched cable (so called ‘null-modem cable’) may be required. 5. Connect signal cable(s) for the MADI signals. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Chapter 3: Installation 6. Using the power cord of the external power supply provided, connect the device to a matching power supply and connect the output of the power supply to the Hirose connectors at the rear panel. This device may operate with only one power supply. To provide power supply redundancy, it is recommended to connect both PSU 1 and PSU 2 to independent power supplies with separate fuses. NOT E The shipment includes one external power supply unit.
Chapter 3: Installation WA R N I N G The connected power supply must provide a current limiting to a maximum of 2.5 A. 7. Check the LED display on the front panel. While the device is booting the currently installed firmware is indicated in the display - e.g. firmware version 3.0. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Chapter 3: Installation 8. Optional: Connect an USB cable to the USB port for firmware updates. This requires the USB Serial driver (Windows®) being installed first. The driver and the installation instructions are available at www.directout.eu. NOT E To update the firmware an installed USB serial driver (Windows®) and the Update Tool are necessary. The software and the installation instructions are available at www.directout.eu. 9.
CHAPTER 4: Operation CHAPTER 4: Operation Introduction This chapter describes the basic operation of the device. Note that throughout this manual, the abbreviation FS refers to sample rate or sample frequency. So, when dealing with scaling factors, the following sample rates can be written as: • 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz = 1 FS • 88.2 kHz or 96 kHz = 2 FS • 176.4 kHz or 192 kHz = 4 FS EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Global Control PSU 1 Hirose socket Connect the power supply here (9 - 24 V DC). PSU 2 Hirose socket Connect the power supply here (9 - 24 V DC). NOT E The device does not provide a power switch. Connecting a working power supply to the device will power up the device immediately. page 26 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Menu Control All functions of the converter can be accessed using a simple menu. A single push button is used for navigation and settings. SET Push button Press longer than 2 seconds to enter the menu mode and to cycle through the menu. Press short to change a setting. When the menu mode is active a LED will blink in one of the sections while the remaining LEDs of this section are glowing weak.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Clocking The clock source can be either set to MADI input or AES input. It is adjusted in the menu (scaling factor) see „System Menu“ on page 45. Clocking to MADI If both MADI inputs are locked an automatic changeover to the other MADI input will occur once the selected input looses its signal.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Eight LEDs inform about the lock / sync state of each AES3 input port individually.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Sample Rates Depending on the clock setting the scaling factor of the sample rate has to be defined manually (MADI) or is set by the AES input signal automatically. Two LEDs indicate the scaling factor and the implicit setting of the clock source. LED page 30 of 60 Code Setting Clock source 4 FS = OFF 2 FS = OFF 1 FS MADI input 4 FS = OFF 2 FS = ON 2 FS MADI input 4 FS = ON 2 FS = OFF 4 FS MADI input 4 FS = ON 2 FS = ON AES AES input EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 4: Operation N OT E When a MADI signal is used as clock source and a 96k Frame signal has been detected the LED 2 FS will blink and 2 FS operation is forced. As an AES3 signal transports the information about the scaling factor a mismatch between setting and AES input signal state is indicated by a blinking LED (SYNC) of the corresponding AES port. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Output Format The format (channel mode, frame format) of the MADI output signal is is defined by the input conditions of the used MADI input and the routing settings. MADI input Setting MADI output 56 ch other 56 ch 64 ch ignored 64 ch no signal other 56 ch no signal Routing set to ‘49..’ @ 1 FS or ‘17..’ @ 2 FS or ‘1..’ @ 4 FS and signal present (lock) at AES input > port 5 * 64 ch 56 ch Routing set to ‘49..’ @ 1 FS or ‘17..’ @ 2 FS or ‘1..
CHAPTER 4: Operation * The input condition is used to preserve 56 ch mode at the MADI output while using routing setting ‘49..’ (‘17..’ or ‘1..’). The output will switch to 64 ch once there is signal present for the particular MADI channels; e.g. @ AES port 5 = MADI channel 57-58 (@1 FS). ** See page 45 to activate the 'force to 64 ch' setting.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Routing 16 audio channels can be converted between AES and MADI. The routing of the audio signals can be adjusted in the system menu - see page 45. The remaining MADI channels will pass the device unaltered. Both MADI outputs work in parallel. NOT E MADI @ 2 FS = 32 channels, MADI @ 4 FS = 16 channels If the selected routing does not fit the chosen scaling factor - due to the reduced number of audio channels - the corresponding LED will blink. page 34 of 60 EXBOX.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Four LEDs are used to indicate the signal routing based on a scaling factor of 1 FS. LED Code Routing 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = ON OFF OFF OFF > MADI OUT 01-16 AES IN AES OUT < MADI IN 01-16 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = OFF ON OFF OFF > MADI OUT 17-32 AES IN AES OUT < MADI IN 17-32 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = OFF OFF ON OFF > MADI OUT 33-48 AES IN AES OUT < MADI IN 33-48 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = OFF OFF OFF ON > MADI OUT 49-64 AES IN AES OUT < MADI IN 49-64 EXBOX.
CHAPTER 4: Operation MADI Bypass A bypass mode allows to daisy-chain several devices without altering the MADI output. LED page 36 of 60 Code Routing 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = OFF ON ON ON MADI IN = MADI OUT AES OUT < MADI IN 01-16 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = ON OFF ON ON MADI IN = MADI OUT AES OUT < MADI IN 17-32 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = ON ON OFF ON MADI IN = MADI OUT AES OUT < MADI IN 33-48 1.. 17.. 33.. 49.. = = = = ON ON ON OFF MADI IN = MADI OUT AES OUT < MADI IN 49-64 EXBOX.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Embedder / De-Embedder The local RS 232 port can both be used to embed serial data into the MADI output signal and to de-embed serial data from the MADI input signal. The serial data is tunnelled by using the user bits of audio channel 1 to 9. RS 232 DSUB-9 socket* Serial data I/O - connect here for embedding or de-embedding RS 232 data.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Settings LED page 38 of 60 Code Mode 9k6 19k2 38k4 115k2 = = = = ON OFF OFF OFF active @ 9600 baud (8, n, 1) 9k6 19k2 38k4 115k2 = = = = OFF ON OFF OFF active @ 19200 baud (8, n, 1) 9k6 19k2 38k4 115k2 = = = = OFF OFF ON OFF active @ 38400 baud (8, n, 1) 9k6 19k2 38k4 115k2 = = = = OFF OFF OFF ON active @ 115200 baud (8, n, 1) 9k6 19k2 38k4 115k2 = = = = OFF ON OFF ON inactive, bit-transparent pass-through of the MADI input signal to the MADI output.
CHAPTER 4: Operation TI P The embedder / de-embedder may be bypassed for bit transparent pass-through of the MADI input signal to the MADI output (UBit bypass). If the embedder / de-embedder is switched off, the user bits of the AES input signals are copied to the user bits of the routed MADI channels. The AES output signals always transport the user bits of the routed MADI input signal. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Connecting MADI The MADI ports are used for transmission of 64 audio channels (AES10). Two different MADI I/O configurations are available: 1 x SC-Socket 1 x BNC coaxial 2 x SC-Socket MADI 1 OUT SC socket (optical) MADI output (64 ch), connect for MADI output signal here. MADI 1 IN SC socket (optical) MADI input (64 ch), connect MADI input signal here. MADI 2 OUT SC socket (optical) or BNC socket (coaxial), 75 Ω MADI output (64 ch), connect for MADI output signal here.
CHAPTER 4: Operation N OT E The MADI input that locks first will be used as sync and input source for conversion. This behaviour is overridden when the clock is set to AES input - see „Clocking“ on page 28. Both MADI outputs work in parallel. The input signal condition is indicated by two LEDs. MADI 1 SYNC LED (green) indicates the use of MADI 1 input and its lock status.
CHAPTER 4: Operation Connecting AES Two DSUB-25 ports (2 x 4 input / output combined) are used for transmission of the AES3 signals. Each port consists of four AES3 input and output ports itself transmitting eight audio channels (I/O).
CHAPTER 4: Operation USB USB USB socket (2.0, type Mini B) Connect here for firmware updates N OT E Needs DirectOut USB Serial driver to be installed. The driver is available at www.directout.eu. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 5: Menu Navigation CHAPTER 5: Menu Navigation To setup the converter the menu mode has to be entered first. The unit will switch back to idle mode automatically after timeout. The following page shows the system menu. Four parameters are available: • Embedder / De-Embedder • Routing (MADI bypass) • Scaling Factor (AES Sync) • Force to 64 channel mode page 44 of 60 - page 37 page 34 page 30 page 32 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 5: Menu Navigation System Menu SET SET SET SET SET SET SET > 2 sec SET SET SET SET SET SET SET SET SET > 2 sec SET SET SET SET SET > 2 sec SET > 2 sec SET EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Troubleshooting To identify a possible defect with the device please consult the following table. If the fault cannot be resolved using these instructions, please contact your local DirectOut representative or visit support.directout.eu. Issue Possible reason Solution Device doesn’t work. Power supply is broken.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Issue Possible reason Solution No signal at the output port. Signal cable defective. Exchange the signal cable. No signal at the output port. Connectors of the signal cable are dirty. Use an air supply to carefully remove any dust. Never use objects for cleaning. or Exchange the signal cable. MADI signal at the input is not stable. Signal source is defective or bad signal condition (Jitter > 1 ns) - e.g.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Issue Possible reason Solution No transport of serial data. wrong pin out Use appropriate cable (see „DSUB-9 - RS 232“ on page 55). To connect two serial devices a null modem cable may be required. Maintenance To clean the device, use a soft, dry cloth. To protect the surface, avoid using cleaning agents. NOT E The device should be disconnected from the power supply during the cleaning process. page 48 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance This page is left blank intentionally. EXBOX.BLDS Manual - Version 1.
CHAPTER 7: Technical Data CHAPTER 7: Technical Data Dimensions • Width 140 mm • Height 42 mm • Depth 146 mm Weight • 0.8 kg Power Consumption • 5 W (typical) Power Supply • 2 x Hirose socket (HR10) • 9 V - 24 V DC (external) WAR NING The connected power supply must provide a current limiting to a maximum of 2.5 A.
CHAPTER 7: Technical Data MADI Port SC optical • 1 or 2 x SC socket FDDI (input / output) • ISO/IEC 9314-3 • Wave length 1310 nm • Multi-Mode 62.5/125 or 50/125 AES3 Port (I/O) • 2 x DSUB-25, female, AES59 compliant (8 x AES3 input / output each) • AES3 balanced, 110 Ω Sample Rate • 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz ± 12.
CHAPTER 7: Technical Data This page is left blank intentionally. page 52 of 60 EXBOX.BLDS Manual - Version 1.
Appendix A - Wiring Sketches Appendix A - Wiring Sketches Hirose HR10 (DC PSU) Pin 1 2 4 3 Signal 1 DC + 2 DC + 3 DC - 4 DC - N OT E To ensure proper operation all pins should be connected. Ground is connected with the chassis of the plug (safety class 1). EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Appendix A - Wiring Sketches DSUB-25 - AES3 The pinout of the DSUB-25 connectors for the transmission of AES3 audio signals follows the AES59 specification.
Appendix A - Wiring Sketches DSUB-9 - RS 232 1 2 6 3 7 4 8 5 9 jack - male Pin Signal 1 2 RX 3 TX 4 5 GND 6 7 8 9 N OT E Ensure to use appropriate cabling. Depending on the remote device a cross patched cable (so called ‘nullmodem cable’) may be required for linking. Consult the operating instructions of the remote device. EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Index Index A Accessory............................ 18 AES59................................. 42 B Baud rates.......................... 51 BOX.MOUNT XL.................. 18 C Clocking to AES............................. 28 to MADI.......................... 28 Conformity & Certificates CE.................................... 15 RoHS............................... 15 WEEE.............................. 15 Contact................................ 16 Contents.............................. 16 Conventions...........
Index Sketch DSUB-9 - RS 232............. DSUB-25 - AES3.............. Hirose HR10 (DC PSU)... Support............................... 55 54 53 46 T Technical data..................... 50 Troubleshooting.................. 46 U Updates............................... 12 USB.................................... 51 User bits............................. 37 W Warranty.............................. 14 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Notes page 58 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
Notes EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.
DirectOut GmbH Leipziger Strasse 32 09648 Mittweida Germany T: +49-3727-5665-100 F: +49-3727-5665-101 www.directout.
