digital Operation Manual (printable Help file) WHIRLWIND 99 LING RD., ROCHESTER, NY 14612 www.whirlwindusa.
April 8, 2004
Table of Contents Introduction 3 Features ...........................................................................................................3 Architect's & Engineer's Specification..............................................................5 Documentation .................................................................................................5 Software Tools 6 Basic Screen Elements....................................................................................6 Layout ..........
Hardware 98 E Desk Hardware ...........................................................................................98 DCS88 Transceivers ....................................................................................100 E Snake........................................................................................................101 System Connections ....................................................................................102 System Control 103 Software User Interface .............
Introduction Features E Desk™ is a hardware and software based digital audio platform that provides multi-channel audio processing in analog and CobraNet™ applications. E Desk allows you to configure your entire system from microphones and line level inputs to the amplifiers by utilizing virtual processors (DSP). When coupled with Whirlwind's other CobraNet compatible products such as E Snake™ and the E Mod™ series of CobraNet tranceivers, E Desk can provide a total digital audio networking solution.
HARDWARE: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Six 60 MHz 32-bit floating point Analog Devices SHARC DSPs (360 MFLOPS) 80 MHz 32-bit Motorola Power PC host processor 32 Mbytes SDRAM 8 Mbytes Flash ROM Ethernet communications for software control and configuration Support of TCP/IP, UDP and ICMP (ping) networking standards Battery backed real-time clock and calendar Powered CAN bus for easy addition of E Desk control devices; touch screens, rotary encoders, and contact switches RS-232 serial port for simple
Architect's & Engineer's Specification E Desk™ Digital Audio Platform ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS SPECIFICATION (February 1, 2004) The Digital Audio Platform shall be an 8-in/8-out (8x8) hardware configuration. Inputs and outputs shall use internal 24-bit A/D & D/A converters operating at a sample rate of 48kHz. All internal processing shall be digital (DSP). Electronically balanced analog inputs and outputs shall be provided on plug-in barrier-strip connectors.
Software Tools Basic Screen Elements The main screen of the E Desk™ software has several sections. The Layout occupies the largest portion of the main screen, at the lower-right. This is the area where system design actually occurs, with the placement & connection of Component Objects. Component Objects represent the individual audio devices (processing blocks) within the system. Other objects include Lines (for connecting components) and Text (for labeling the system).
Layout The Layout occupies the largest portion of the main screen, at the lower-right. This is the area where system design actually occurs, with the placement & connection of Component Objects. Component Objects represent the individual audio devices (processing blocks) within the system. Other objects include Lines (for connecting components) and Text (for labeling the system). Component objects can be placed into the Layout from the Equipment Room, the Object Toolbar, or the Equipment Room Menu.
Equipment Room An Equipment Room of available Component Objects is displayed, at the lower-left of the main screen. The Component Objects are organized in the following categories: Input Output; Mixers; Equalizers; Filters; Crossovers; Dynamics; Routers; Delays; Controls; Meters; Generators; and Diagnostics. Once a category is selected, the pre-defined components available from that category will be displayed underneath the category heading.
The Object Toolbar also provides the option of either a select cursor or a text cursor. The select cursor is for component selection, placement, wiring, etc. The text cursor is for placing Text Objects into the Layout, for system design labeling purposes. When using the Object Toolbar, the Equipment Room may be closed, increasing the width of the Layout. The Object Toolbar may be opened/closed from the View Menu. The location and shape of all toolbars may be changed to fit the user's preference.
Italic Changes the selected text to an italicized version of the chosen font. Align Left Aligns the selected text to the left margin of the Component or Text Object. Center Centers the selected text between the left and right margins of the Component or Text Object. Align Right Aligns the selected text to the right margin of the Component or Text Object. Back Color Provides a drop-down menu for changing the background color of the Layout, or of selected Component or Text Objects.
Text Color Provides a drop-down menu for changing the text color in selected Component or Text Objects. Left-clicking the icon applies the color which was selected last. Fore Color Provides a drop-down menu for changing the color of the lower and right borders, as well as any internal Hatching, of the selected Component, Line, or Text Objects. Left-clicking the icon applies the color which was selected last.
Hatch Style Provides a drop-down menu for changing the hatching style within the selected Component or Text Objects. Left-clicking the icon applies the style which was selected last. Layout Toolbar The Layout Toolbar affects certain aspects of Layout, such as the grid, rulers, zooming, & alignment of Component Objects. The Layout Toolbar can also open editing/information sheets for properties, objects, & layers.
Layout Property Sheet Provides an editable table of attributes regarding the Layout. Only Display Attributes are shown for the Layout. Most Display Attributes duplicate functions found in the Format Toolbar However, some exceptions are as follows: PrintScale is entered as decimal information, where 0.5 = 50% or 2.0 = 200%. ViewLayers opens the Layers Sheet. Tag is for user comments or other identifying text.
Object Property Sheet Both Display and DSP Attributes are shown for component objects. Most Display Attributes duplicate functions found in the Format Toolbar. However, some exceptions are as follows: Object Code is a non-editable identifier. Left, Top, Width, & Height specify object location and size (in pixels). Layer determines which layer the component is assigned to. Tag is for user comments or other identifying text.
Object Inspector Provides a list of all objects within the Layout, along with their Object Codes, Text Labels, Unit numbers, and Instance ID numbers. Layers Sheet Provides an editable table of Layer properties. Layers can be used to separate a Layout into multiple parts. The Layers can be organized with regards to object types, system segments, or any other criteria. The Default Layer always remains, but other Layers may be created or removed, using Add & Delete.
Toggle Grid Turns Layout Grid on/off. Toggle Ruler Turns Layout Ruler on/off. Overview Turns Overview on/off. Zoom In Increases magnification of Layout in 25% increments. Zoom Out Decreases magnification of Layout in 25% increments. Zoom 1:1 Returns magnification of Layout to 100%. Zoom Level Provides a drop-down menu of available Zoom magnifications (50% ~ 200% in 25% increments).
Pack Objects Provides a drop-down menu for packing selected objects next to each other. The target location for packing left/right is the top-most selected object. The target location for packing top/bottom is the left-most selected object. Left-clicking the icon applies the packing which was selected last. Align Edges Provides a drop-down menu for aligning the edges of selected objects. The primary selected object (green handles) provides the target edges for alignment.
Space Provides a drop-down menu for evenly spacing selected objects. Spacing is determined between the two most distantly spaced selected objects. Left-clicking the icon applies the spacing which was selected last. Make Same Size Provides a drop-down menu for matching the dimensions of selected objects. The primary selected object (green handles) provides the target dimensions. Objects cannot be smaller than original size. Left-clicking the icon applies the sizing which was selected last.
Network Toolbar The Network Toolbar provides functions related to communications, configuration, maintenance, and testing of the system network (see System Network Considerations). Network Toolbar function includes: Connect; Disconnect; Connect To System; Disconnect From System; Send Configuration; Sync Data; Start Audio; Stop Audio; and Device Maintenance. Tools Connect Establishes communication with, and provides a list of, all E Desk™ devices on the network.
Disconnect From System Ends communications with selected E Desk™ systems on the network. See System Network Considerations. System design data is retained in software after disconnect. Send Configuration Transmits system design data to selected E Desk™ devices in the system. See System Network Considerations. Before data can be transmitted, a system design file (.DAP) must first be opened, then connected to a system, and have E Desk device IP addresses assigned (see Device Maintenance).
Device Maintenance Provides an editable table of network related settings for selected E Desk™ devices. Opens Device Maintenance dialog box. Device Maintenance settings include Date/Time, IP Address, Description, Serial Number, Reset/Initialize, Update Firmware, and Disconnect From Network. (See System Network Considerations.) Device Maintenance Dialog Box Device Information provides information (such as firmware version, input/output configuration, etc.) regarding the selected device.
RCB Devices opens a list of devices connected to the Remote Control Bus of the selected E Desk device. Identify Device causes indicators on the selected device to flash (for physical location). Set Device Description allows the selected device be given a custom name. Update Firmware allows future firmware updates to be loaded into the selected device.
Save Saves the current E Desk™ system design file (.DAP). Compile Provides system design analysis and calculates DSP processing requirements. Makes initial determinations of quantity/type of E Desk™ devices needed, CobraNet™ channel assignments, and allocation of DSP resources. Also provides indication of system design errors. There are two compilation modes: Quick and Extended. Generally, in the Quick mode the compilation takes less time, but it may not find the best solution or not find any solution.
Paste Places a copy of the object(s) from the Clipboard into the Layout. Undo Will undo last operation. Redo Will redo most recent Undo operation. Print Opens a print dialog box, to adjust printer settings and print the Layout. Help You're looking at it.
Main Menus The Main Menus provide most of the toolbar functions mentioned previously, in Basic Screen Elements, as well as several more in-depth functions. Main Menus includes the following individual menus: File; Edit; View; Equipment Room; Presets; Custom Blocks; Tools; Layout; Window; and Help. Keyboard shortcuts are shown on the menus, where applicable. File Menu Export Allows the E Desk™ Layout to be exported in different file formats. DXF format is for use with CAD programs.
Network Most Network Menu items duplicate functions found in the Network Toolbar, except for Send Control Dialog Layout Information, which allows open (or minimized) control dialog box settings to be updated/saved to the hardware device. See Component Object Properties and Software User Interface. Print Preview Previews printing results based on Print Setup. Print Setup Opens a print dialog box to adjust printer settings. Recent File Provides a list of recently saved files for convenient access.
Edit Menu Copy DSP Data Places a copy of the DSP data from the selected object into the Clipboard. DSP Data represents the current settings of that Component Object. See Component Object Properties. DSP Data can be copied from only one Component Object at a time. NOTE: Software now supports Copy/Paste DSP Data between objects which are of the same type, but which have different sized configurations. Examples: 4x4 & 8x8 Matrix Mixers; 3-band & 5-band Parametric EQ.
Control Dialog Opens a Control Dialog box for the selected Component Object. Control Dialog boxes provide a graphic means of displaying and adjusting Component Object settings. See Component Object Properties. View Menu Toolbars provides a drop-down menu to turn on/off any of the toolbars (see Basic Screen Elements). Status Bar, Ruler Bars, Zoom, & Overview select those functions, as found on the Layout Toolbar. Equipment Room Menu Provides a list of Component Object categories from the Equipment Room.
Presets Menu Create/Edit/Recall Provides the Create/Edit Preset dialog box, for creating, editing, saving, and recalling presets. Each preset can have a custom Preset Name, and will automatically be assigned a Preset ID number. A check-box is provided to assign the selected preset to be Set As Power-Up Default. This preset will automatically be recalled each time the system is powered up. A check-box is also provided to assign the selected preset to Mute Audio During Recall.
Recall Provides the Recall Preset dialog box, for recalling existing presets. Recall Preset will retrieve all settings stored in the selected preset. Presets can also be recalled using components called Preset Buttons and Remote Preset Buttons, which can be placed into the Layout from Controls on the Object Toolbar.
Custom Blocks Menu Multiple component objects may be merged into a single custom block. Custom Blocks can simplify the design process by integrating frequently used component combinations, and provide password protection for intellectual property such as unique processing and component settings. Create Custom Block Document Create Custom Block Document opens a new DAP file, and a Create Custom DSP Block screen determines the quantities of audio and logic inputs/outputs necessary for the custom block.
Merge Into Custom Block Merge Into Custom Block checks for errors (such as inappropriate connections) as it packages the components into a single block. The resulting block can then be copied into the Equipment Room (and named) for use in future DAP design files. The Custom Block DAP file should also be saved as a reference for subsequent modifications. Control settings for each component within a Custom Block can be adjusted (see Component Object Properties).
Split Into Component Blocks Split Into Component Blocks allows additional component and connection changes to be made to a Custom Block. Merge and Split operations are available only while working in the Custom Block DAP file. Tools Menu Passwords Provides the Set Passwords dialog box, for establishing password protection in selected E Desk™ devices. Set Password allows up to four levels of protection, each with a unique password (6~16 characters).
Equipment Table Provides an editable table of E Desk™ devices in the system design. Add and Remove can be used to manually change the hardware design. However, Compile will add devices if needed (but will not automatically remove unnecessary devices). The Equipment Table may be used to aid system design, by initially specifying desired hardware configurations. Serial # and Device Description Label appear only when connected to a system, at which time the Equipment Table becomes 'read-only' information.
Layout Compile Results Provides the most recent Compile results. This information may be viewed at any time. Signal Path Identifier Provides a temporary color-coded identification of all signal paths (Lines) which are associated with a selected Line Object. See example below, where the selected input is shown as being routed to four outputs. Signal Path Identifier is represented by a thin dashed red line. However, the Signal Path Identifier color may be changed in Display Options.
General Options Allows Data Files (system designs) and Equipment Room (Component Objects) to be saved to specified directory locations. Allows Save AutoRecover time to be adjusted or disabled. Allows most recent Component Object selection to be retained, for repeated placement into Layout. Allows Compressed File Format to be disabled. Allows Meter activity to be disabled (locked), to reduce network data traffic. Allows Preset Buttons to display identifier numbers, or simply the word 'Recall'.
Display Options Allows DSP Blocks (Component Objects) to display Device Assignment or Group Assignment numbers, as determined by Compile. (Device Assignments can be changed in the Property Sheet.) A third option is to display DSP Resource Requirements, which indicates the block's DSP usage as a percentage of total DSP resources available within a single hardware unit. Allows color of Signal Path Identifier to be changed.
Compile Options Allows Global Delay Equalization to be disabled system-wide (see System Compiling Considerations). Allows Local Delay Equalization to be enabled for I/O blocks which have Global Delay Equalization turned off (provides localized delay equalization for multi-input DSP blocks such as mixers). Allows automatic re-assignment of Instance IDs during Compile or Send Configuration. Allows Compile function to be stopped if warning occurs. Allows Device Assignments to be excluded from Paste DSP Data.
Layout Menu Most Layout Menu items duplicate functions found in the Layout Toolbar. However, some exceptions are as follows: Align Objects; Order; Objects; and Grid Settings. Align Objects Align Objects provides Vertical Center & Horizontal Center functions, in addition to the Align Edges functions found on the Layout Toolbar. Order Order provides Bring Forward & Send Backward functions, in addition to the To Front Or Back functions found on the Layout Toolbar.
Object Sheet Provides a list of all objects within the Layout. Normally, objects can be selected sequentially using the Tab key. The Object Sheet allows the order of this Tab selection to be changed. Objects may be selected directly from the list. When an object is selected, Up and Down change the Tab Order position of that object. Grid Settings Grid Settings allows the Layout Grid to be customized. Show Grid turns the Grid on/off.
Window Menu Multiple Layouts (system design files) may be open at the same time. Only one Layout will be active at a time (as indicated by the title bar). Layouts can be arranged on the display using the Window Menu. Cascade overlays the Layouts in an hierarchy. Tile fits the Layouts within the display. Close will close the active Layout. Close All will close all Layouts. A list of open Layouts is provided for selection. Help Menu Provides E Desk™ Help Topics and About E Desk information.
Component Objects Input Output These Component Objects provide the audio inputs/outputs (I/O) to the system. Analog and CobraNet™ (digital) I/O are both available, allowing system designs to include A/D & D/A converters which have CobraNet capability. Input/Output components are available in pre-defined configurations, however, the configuration may be customized when being placed from the Object Toolbar.
Control Dialog Input Control Dialog Device IO indicates which hardware input is associated with that software channel. Gain In compensates for different input levels (mic or line), and should be set so Peak In flashes only occasionally (6dB headroom). Phan Pwr assigns +48 Volt phantom power to the input for condenser microphones. Mute In turns the input signal on/off. Level In adjusts the relative input volume. Invert In reverses the polarity of the input signal.
DCS88 Input Control Dialog DCS88 Input blocks are similar to CobraNet Input blocks, except they are designed for use with DCS88 hardware specifically and, therefore, automatically allow for Internal Propagation Delay. CobraNet Input blocks may be used with DCS88 hardware, but Internal Propagation Delay must be manually set (1.00mS). Adjust DCS88 input trim (gain) controls so that Peak In flashes only occasionally (6dB headroom). Mute In turns the input signal on/off.
DCS88 Output Control Dialog DCS88 Output blocks are similar to CobraNet Output blocks, except they are designed for use with DCS88 hardware specifically and, therefore, automatically allow for Internal Propagation Delay. CobraNet Output blocks may be used with DCS88 hardware, but Internal Propagation Delay must be manually set (0.33mS). Mute Out turns the output signal on/off. Level Out adjusts the relative output volume. Invert Out reverses the polarity of the output signal.
MLI Input Control Dialog MLI (Mic/Line Input) blocks are similar to CobraNet Input blocks, except they are designed for use with E Snake hardware specifically and, therefore, automatically allow for Internal Propagation Delay. CobraNet Input blocks may be used with E Snake hardware, but Internal Propagation Delay must be manually set (1.67mS). Adjust MLI input trim (gain) controls so that Peak In flashes only occasionally (6dB headroom). Mute In turns the input signal on/off.
MLO Output Control Dialog MLO (Mic/Line Output) blocks are similar to CobraNet Output blocks, except they are designed for use with E Snake hardware specifically and, therefore, automatically allow for Internal Propagation Delay. CobraNet Output blocks may be used with E Snake hardware, but Internal Propagation Delay must be manually set (0.67mS). Mute Out turns the output signal on/off. Level Out adjusts the relative output volume. Invert Out reverses the polarity of the output signal.
CobraNet Input Control Dialog Adjust external signal source so Peak In flashes only occasionally (6dB headroom). Mute In turns the input signal on/off. Level In adjusts the relative input volume. Invert In reverses the polarity of the input signal. CobraNet Bundle assigns digital audio data to a particular bundle number. CobraNet Bundle Numbers are used to match those of any external thirdparty CobraNet A/D converters being used in the system (see DCS88 and E Snake).
CobraNet Output Control Dialog Mute Out turns the output signal on/off. Level Out adjusts the relative output volume. Invert Out reverses the polarity of the output signal. CobraNet Bundle assigns digital audio data to a particular bundle. CobraNet Bundle Numbers are used to match those of any external third-party CobraNet D/A converters being used in the system (see DCS88 and E Snake). Normally, 'unicast' bundles 256 ~ 61,439 are selectable.
Mixers These Component Objects provide typical audio mixing functions, in five categories: Standard Mixers; Matrix Mixers; Auto Mixers; Mix-Minus Combiners; and Room Combiners. Mix-Minus Combiners are provided to enhance the capabilities of Auto Mixers in mix-minus and input expansion applications. Room Combiners are provided to enhance the capabilities of Auto Mixers in room combining and zone routing applications.
Matrix Mixers Control Dialog Mute In turns the input signal on/off. Level In adjusts the relative input volume. Ch / Bus assigns inputs to specific outputs, and right-clicking allows level adjustment. Mute Out turns the output signal on/off. Level Out adjusts the relative output volume. Matrix Mixers w/Delay are also available. Mix Table assigns Ch / Bus to affect either level or delay settings. Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options.
Channel Settings affects individual channel settings, but may be applied to all channels. Manual turns on/off channel gating. NOM Gain turns on/off channel contribution to NOM (number of open mics) attenuation. Direct Output designates channel direct output signal as Post Gate / Pre NOM, Post Gate / Post NOM, or Off. (Direct Outputs must be enabled when placing Auto Mixers from the Object Toolbar.) Set All causes current Channel Settings to be applied to all channels.
Room Combiners Control Dialog Room Combiners are provided to enhance the capabilities of Auto Mixers in room combining and zone routing applications. Room Combiners automatically determine proper routing of audio signals & control data for the Auto Mixers. Control data represents NOM (number of open mics) and ATS (adaptive threshold sensing) information. Room Combiners are available only from the Object Toolbar (not from the Equipment Room).
Equalizers These Component Objects provide both graphic and parametric equalization, as well as feedback suppression. Equalizers may be connected between any components within the Layout, for applications which require room equalization, tone adjustment, or feedback control. Equalizers are available in pre-defined configurations, however, the configuration may be customized when being placed from the Object Toolbar.
Parametric Equalizer Control Dialog Active Band selects the current band to be adjusted. Center Freq. adjusts the center frequency for the current band. Gain adjusts the amount of cut or boost applied at the center frequency for the current band. Bandwidth adjusts the range of frequencies, above & below the center frequency, which are also affected by the current band. These settings may also be adjusted by dragging the band controls shown inside the graph. Dragging the white dot affects both Center Freq.
Feedback Suppressor Control Dialog Feedback Suppressors behave like automatic cut-only parametric equalizers. They utilize 'floating' bands of equalization which detect and remove feedback frequencies. Active Band selects the current band for which settings will be displayed. Center Freq. displays the center frequency for the current band. Gain displays the amount of cut applied at the center frequency for the current band.
Filters These Component Objects provide High-Pass, Low-Pass, High-Shelf, Low-Shelf, & All-Pass filters. Filters may be connected between any components within the Layout, for applications which require 'roll-offs', simple tone controls, or even phase compensation. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object. This produces a Control Dialog Box, which displays the component controls in a more conventional user interface.
Low Pass Filter Control Dialog Filter / Slope selects the type (Linkwitz-Riley or Butterworth) and slope of the filter. Cutoff Freq. selects the cutoff frequency for the filter. Cutoff Freq. may also be adjusted by dragging the cursor shown inside the graph. Bypass disables the filter without changing settings. Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options. High Shelf Filter Control Dialog Gain selects the amount of maximum cut or boost applied by the filter. Cutoff Freq.
All-Pass Filter All-Pass Filters are so named because they do not affect frequency response. Instead, they affect signal phase only and, therefore, can be used to compensate for the phase anomalies caused by normal equalization filters. All-Pass Filters are available with up to sixteen bands. Active Band selects the current band to be adjusted. Center Freq. adjusts the center frequency for the current band.
Crossovers These Component Objects provide 2-way, 3-way, & 4-way crossover functions. Crossovers may be connected between any components within the Layout, for applications which require multiple outputs with specified frequency ranges. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object. This produces a Control Dialog Box, which displays the component controls in a more conventional user interface.
3-Way Crossover Control Dialog Input Level provides muting and level adjustment for the input. Output Range selects the Low, Mid, or High frequency output. Frequency selects the filter cutoff frequencies for the selected output. Output Range & Frequency may also be selected by dragging the cursors shown inside the graph. Filter / Slope selects the type (Linkwitz-Riley or Butterworth) and slope of filter used at the associated Frequency.
4-Way Crossover Control Dialog Input Level provides muting and level adjustment for the input. Output Range selects the Low, Low-Mid, MidHigh, or High frequency output. Frequency selects the filter cutoff frequencies for the selected output. Output Range & Frequency may also be selected by dragging the cursors shown inside the graph. Filter / Slope selects the type (Linkwitz-Riley or Butterworth) and slope of filter used at the associated Frequency.
Dynamics These Component Objects provide Leveler, Comp/Limiter, Ducker, Noise Gate, & Ambient Noise Compensator functions. Dynamics components may be connected between any other components within the Layout, for applications which require automatic control of volume levels and/or dynamics. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object.
Comp/Limiter Control Dialog Comp/Limiters affect short-term signal dynamics (peaks). Attack determines how quickly the Comp/Limiter reacts to input level changes. Compression Ratio determines the intensity of gain reduction (input level increase vs. output level increase). Release Time determines how quickly gain reduction is released, once input signal falls below Threshold. Threshold determines what input level will trigger gain reduction. A meter & numeric display indicate the amount of gain reduction.
Noise Gate Control Dialog Noise Gates provide automatic muting, until triggered by signal presence. Attack Time determines how quickly the gate opens when signal is present. Release Time determines how quickly the gate closes when signal is no longer present. Threshold determines what input signal level will trigger the gate to open. A meter & numeric display indicate the amount of gain reduction. Identifier provides a custom label, when dialog box is minimized (see below).
Bypass disables the Ambient Noise Compensator without changing settings. Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options. Control Dialog Boxes for Ambient Noise Compensators can be minimized to create user control surfaces (see Customizing Component Objects). see Ambient Noise Compensator setup procedure. ANC Setup Procedure Connections • Feed the "program" signal into the Program Input (top left) of the ANC block.
Note: The overall responsiveness of the ANC output is determined by the larger (slower) of the two aforementioned times: Gain Time and Ambient Response time. Setting Thresholds • Press the "Set Threshold" button, ensuring that the Program Input level is a good approximation of the highest program signal level you expect will be fed to the ANC. This process records the levels of both the Ambient and Program inputs. The Ambient Threshold is set to 10dBu higher than the recorded Ambient level.
Delays These Component Objects provide typical audio time-delay functions. Delays may be connected between any components within the Layout, for applications which require room delay and/or loudspeaker time-alignment. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object. This produces a Control Dialog Box, which displays the component controls in a more conventional user interface.
Controls These Component Objects provide both internal and external control functions. Level Controls, Mute Buttons, and Invert may be connected between components within the Layout, for control of volume, muting, and polarity. Preset and Remote Preset Buttons may be placed within the Layout, and defined to recall specified Presets. Logic Gates and Logic Delay may be connected between component control nodes in the layout, to customize control behavior.
Control Dialog Level Control Dialog Mute turns on/off the channel. Channel level may be entered numerically, or may be adjusted by dragging the fader. Maximum and Minimum can be used to restrict the range of level adjustment provided by the fader. Level ID provides a custom label, when the dialog box is minimized (see below). Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options.
Mute Button Control Dialog Mute turns on/off the channel. Identifier provides a custom label, when the dialog box is minimized (see below). Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options. Control Dialog Boxes for Mute Button components can be minimized to create user control surfaces (see Customizing Component Objects). When placed from the Object Toolbar, multiple Mute Buttons may be 'ganged' together onto a single button.
Logic Gates Most Logic Gates have no Control Dialog Boxes. They are used only to customize behavior of other control functions in the system. Logic Gates are connected between the output and input control nodes of other components in the layout. These components can represent internal or external control functions. Examples Internal: Auto Mixer output nodes; Ducker input/output nodes; Remote Preset Button input nodes. External: S8 output nodes; V8 output nodes; Voltage Command Box input/output nodes.
V8 Control Dialog The V8 is an external control device, which allows adjustment of eight selectable E Desk volumes. Volumes can be individual or grouped levels within E Desk. This includes Level Control blocks, as well as levels within other component blocks (such as Inputs/Outputs, Mixers, Equalizers, etc.). V8 is represented in the layout as a block with no audio or control connections. All functions are assigned using the control dialog box.
S8 The S8 is an external control device, which allows initiation of eight selectable E Desk actions. Actions can be individual or grouped functions within E Desk. This includes recalling presets, ducking, combining, etc. S8 components have no Control Dialog Boxes. They are represented in the layout as a block with eight control output nodes. These control output nodes are connected to control input nodes on the other component blocks to be controlled.
VS8 Control Dialog The VS8 is an external control device, which combines the functions of both V8 and S8 controls. Therefore, the VS8 is represented with a control dialog box (for volume functions), as well as a component block with control output nodes (for select functions). Control Dialog Boxes for VS8 components can be minimized to create user control surfaces (see Customizing Component Objects).
Voltage Command Box The Voltage Command Box is an external control device, which provides twenty logic input/output connections. When a Voltage Command Box is placed, an Initialization Properties dialog box appears for assigning the quantities of logic inputs/outputs (20 total). Logic inputs allow external switches to initiate E Desk actions. Actions can be individual or grouped functions within E Desk. This includes recalling presets, ducking, combining, etc.
Control Labels The V8, S8, and VS8 controls all come with a sheet of clear, adhesive-backed labels, for custom printing on a laser printer. A Word document (V8S8 B Labels.doc) is available on the E Desk software CD and on the Whirlwind web site (www.whirlwindusa.com), as a label printing template. These labels are meant to be printed using desk-top laser printers only. It is recommended that the printer be set for 'label' printing, and the label sheet should be 'short-edge' feed from the 'bypass' tray.
Meters These Component Objects provide signal present, peak, and RMS metering functions. Meters may be connected to any component output, and may be used for diagnostic and setup purposes, or for applications which require real-time metering. Meters are available in pre-defined configurations, however, the configuration may be customized when being placed from the Object Toolbar. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object.
RMS Meter Control Dialog An RMS-reading meter & numeric display indicate signal level. Hold Time determines how long the meter will display the most recent level increase. Hold Enable turns the Hold Time function on/off. Indefinite Hold causes the Hold function to be continuous, updating the display only when levels increase beyond the current reading. Identifier provides a custom label, when dialog box is minimized (see below). Right-clicking over certain settings will provide a menu of additional options.
Control Dialog Tone Generator Control Dialog Tone selects a single frequency. Sweep selects a range of frequencies (instead of a single tone). Mute turns on/off the generator. Level determines the generator output level. Frequency determines the frequency for Tone. Start Frequency & Stop Frequency determine the range of frequencies for Sweep. Frequency Interval selects the spacing (and quantity) of individual tones for Sweep. Time Interval determines the time each tone is held for Sweep.
Diagnostics These Component Objects provide Transfer Function displays for diagnostic purposes. Transfer Function may be connected between any two component outputs on the same signal path, for a comparative analysis of processing. Once a Component Object is placed into the Layout, all available settings can be accessed by double-clicking over the object. This produces a Control Dialog Box, which displays the component controls in a more conventional user interface.
Specialty These Component Objects provide Pass-Through and Split Pass-Through functions, to aid in the organization of system connections. Pass-Through blocks allow wiring nodes to be strategically placed, so audio or control (logic) signals can be routed in different directions. Split Pass-Through blocks allow associated input and output wiring nodes to be placed in separate locations, with an implicit or 'wireless' connection being maintained between them.
Split Pass-Through Input Split Pass-Through blocks allow associated input and output wiring nodes to be placed in separate locations, with an implicit or 'wireless' connection being maintained between them. Type selects whether the blocks are for audio or logic connections. Channel Count selects the quantity of input/output connections to be provided on the blocks. Separate 'Link-In' and 'Link-Out' blocks are placed for input and output connections.
System Design Placing Component Objects E Desk™ system design begins with the placement of Component Objects into the Layout. This can be done in two ways. The simplest way is to select a component category from the Equipment Room, and then drag & drop a predefined component into the Layout. Equipment Room component categories can also be selected from the Equipment Room Menu (at the top of the screen), which indicates keyboard short-cuts as well.
Component Object Properties Component Object Properties are the control settings available for each component. These represent the same settings normally found on equivalent analog audio products. Component Object Properties for a selected component can be viewed/edited (in table form) using the Object Property Sheet. They can also be copied & pasted (as DSP Data) between components of the same type, using the Edit Menu.
Customizing Component Objects Component Objects can be customized in several ways. First, when using the Object Toolbar to place components into the Layout, certain components will present the user with a pop-up window of configuration options. Several pre-defined configuration (input/output) options may be available for the component, as well as a 'custom' selection that allows the user to more specifically configure the component.
System Compiling Considerations Once a system design is created (components placed & connected), the system can be compiled by selecting Compile from either the File Menu or the Standard Toolbar. Compile provides system design analysis and calculates DSP processing requirements. Compile also makes initial determinations of quantity/type of E Desk™ devices needed, CobraNet™ channel assignments, allocation of DSP resources, and I/O channel number assignments.
Channel Number Assignments Release Notes for E Desk version 1.0 The suggested procedure for assignment of channel numbers to I/O blocks is as follows. It is assumed that all blocks are assigned to the same E Desk unit. If the system contains multiple units, the following procedure should be performed several times. As always, the compiler does not modify the existing channel assignments if the I/O block has a fixed allocation to an E Desk unit.
Compile Error Messages Validation of the Topology Map Message: The Automatic Mixer (object code '__') at [__,__] has no active audio output. Explanation: An Auto Mixer Main Output is connected to a Mix-Minus Combiner input, but appropriate audio output connections have not been made. Mix-Minus Combiners allow Auto Mixers to share control data only, and do not support audio input or output. Message: Unintended use of Combiner block detected.
Messages: The algorithm for the'__' block (object code '__') at [__,__] has been deprecated. You should replace the existing block with a newly created one which uses the most up to date algorithm. You should replace the existing blocks with newly created ones which use the most up to date algorithms. Explanation: The first warning is issued for each DSP block in the layout that is considered outdated.
Message: Insufficient computing power to implement this layout. Explanation: The design requires more DSP resources than are available from the E Desk device(s) specified in the Equipment Table. This can only occur if the flag 'Auto Device Add' is not set under Tools>Options>Compile. Message: Feedback loop detected. Explanation: The potential exists for an audio path to be indirectly looped back upon itself. This condition could be dangerous, and is not allowed.
Allocation of DSP blocks to Audia Devices Message: Too many combinations. Try to reduce the number of groups by combining DSP blocks. Explanation: The possibilities are too numerous to determine a solution within a reasonable period of time. Reduce the number of groups by ganging components together or giving them fixed allocations. Message: Group #__ has too many connections to be placed into an E Desk unit.
Message: Total maximal duration of delays exceeded in the unit #_. Explanation: The number of delay blocks, and their combined delay ranges, exceeds the maximum capability of this unit. Currently, any single E Desk unit can provide a maximum of 45 seconds of delay blocks. Matrix Mixers with Delay also contribute to this total, consuming 1 second per input channel. Allocation of DSP blocks to DSPs Message: Allocating blocks to DSPs...failed to set up a feasible DSP task schedule in the unit #__.
Setting up the E Desk units after a successful compilation Message: Could not assign audio I/O channels in the unit # __. Explanation: Indicates a software problem. Please contact Whirlwind. Messages: Available range of Instance IDs is nearly exhausted. Range of Instance IDs has been exhausted. Explanation: The total number of Instance IDs, as assigned to component and line objects, is limited to 65,535.
Applications Example of a system using S8 and V8 remote control devices This example demonstrates the use of external remote controls to recall presets and adjust volume within an E Desk system. The S8 block is wired to a Remote Preset Button block where 8 presets have been assigned. One may simply select the appropriate preset on the external S8 device and activate it with the press of the button. The V8 block has been programmed to control an 8 channel Level Control block.
Example of a stereo sound system with delay and subwoofer. This example demonstrates an 8x8 E Desk unit utilized in a live sound application. 8 line inputs feed an 8x4 Standard Mixer. Audio is routed from the mixer to both left and right channels of a 3-Way Crossover. A five-band Parametric Equalizer is provided at each Crossover output channel for precise driver equalization. A mono Delay line output is provided for delayed speakers, as well as a Low Pass Filter output for a mono subwoofer.
Example of a 3 unit audio distribution/routing system. This example demonstrates three 8x8 E Desk units used in a large audio distribution and routing system. Such a system could be used for paging or background music distribution in a very large hotel or convention center. Each of the three units is connected via CobraNet using Cat5 cable with a 10/100 Base-T Ethernet switch. Note: dotted blue lines represent CobraNet connections.
Hardware E Desk Hardware E Desk™ is a 2RU chassis with CobraNet™. It has 8-in & 8-out (8x8). Inputs & outputs are analog, with internal 24bit A/D & D/A converters, operating at a sample rate of 48kHz. All internal processing is digital (DSP). CobraNet 8x8 input/output expanders are also available (see DCS88 and E Snake). Inputs & Outputs: Inputs & outputs are provided on balanced plug-in barrier-strip connectors. For unbalanced input, wire high to (+) and ground to both ( ) & (-).
Front Panel Indicators: The Front Panel Indicators (I/O, Com, & Status) are 2-color LEDs. The following table lists their behaviors: I/O LED: green Com LED: green Status LED: green Normal operating state. Application framework successfully executed. Configuration was successful (if applicable). Device is in a stable state awaiting commands.
DCS88 Transceivers Each DCS88 can convert 8 mic or line analog inputs to CobraNet™ digital audio protocol and transmit them over a network to other CobraNet compliant devices. In addition, each DCS88 unit is capable of receiving 8 channels of CobraNet digital audio and converting it back into analog line level outputs. A DCS88 can simply add inputs/outputs to a centralized system, or it can extend system boundaries by providing inputs/outputs in remote locations.
E Snake The main components of the Whirlwind E Snake™ system consist of E Snake Frames (ESF) and E Snake Control™ software for managing the system. Two or more of these frames connected to each other through a 100Mb Ethernet switch with CAT-5 or fiber optics replace the traditional analog multipair audio snake. E Snake utilizes CobraNet®, the industry standard for real-time, multi-channel networked audio.
System Connections For wiring information on specific connectors, see E Desk Hardware , System Network Considerations, and Control Bus.
System Control Software User Interface Once a system design is compiled and downloaded into E Desk devices, the system can be controlled in real-time the via the E Desk software. The extent of control can be limited with different password levels. In addition, Control Dialog Boxes for certain Combiners, Dynamics, Controls, & Meters components can be minimized to create customized control surfaces (room combiners, meters, level controls, mute buttons, & preset buttons).
Remote Control Bus Remote Control Bus provides the connection for V8, S8, VS8, and Voltage Command Box external control devices. Each E Desk device can support any combination of the controls mentioned above. Up to 32 controls may be connected to each E Desk device, on a daisy-chain 'network', with a maximum cable length of 1000 feet (300 meters). Controls are wired in parallel (pin-for-pin), using 5-conductor data grade cable (95~120 ohms nominal impedance; 16 pF/ft. max. capacitance; 65% min.
Third-Party Control After initial programming & configuration, E Desk systems may be controlled by RS-232 communication from thirdparty control systems such as AMX® or Crestron®, using the Serial Control Port. See RS-232 and Telnet Protocol.
RS-232 and Telnet Protocol Basics E Desk can be controlled via customized control dialogs in the E Desk software, or via third-party controllers using RS232 or Telnet. For RS-232 or Ethernet (Telnet) control of E Desk, Whirlwind created ETP (E Desk Text Protocol). This simply means that E Desk will accept strings of ASCII characters to control and read settings of gain, mute, logic state, frequency, audio levels, and other parameters of DSP blocks that exist in E Desk.
Example: A string to turn up a cross point on a matrix mixer might look like this: INC 2 MMLVLXP 4 3 2 1 The individual components for this string are: In this example Index1 and Index2 are both used; together they specify which cross point is to be changed. RS-232 Control The RS-232 port on the back of an E Desk unit is set to a default baud rate of 38400, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, and no flow control. (38400:8:None:1).
Command SET – Tells E Desk that a DSP attribute is to be set to a specific value – may contain negative number and/or decimal points GET - Tells E Desk that a DSP attribute is to be read - Response may contain a decimal point and/or a negative number. INC - Tells E Desk that a DSP attribute is to be incremented by a specific amount DEC- Tells E Desk that a DSP attribute is to be decremented by a specific amount RECALL – Tells E Desk that a preset is to be recalled.
Table of SETL and GETL levels converted from floating-point numbers.
Device Number An E Desk Device Number represents the physical E Desk box’s defined address. The E Desk software automatically sets this number when a system is Compiled and loaded. The Device number that a DSP block has been assigned to can be determined in two ways: First Way: 1) Right click on the DSP block and select ‘Properties’. 2) Click on DSP 1 attributes tab and scroll down. The device that the block is assigned to will be displayed in the ‘Allocated To Unit’ field.
Attribute The Attribute defines the portion of the DSP block to be controlled (fader level, crosspoint mute etc). The following tables show whether each ETP Attribute supports SET/SETL, GET/GETL, INC, and DEC Commands, as well as the Value range that the Attribute will accept. Index1/Index2 determines whether Index1, Index2 or BOTH are needed for a ETP String to be complete.
Input/Output Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: In the command: SET 1 INPLVL 6 3 –10 We are telling E Desk device 1 to set an input fader, Instance ID 6, input 3 (index1), to –10dB. (We set channel 3 input level of instance 6 to –10dB) * Can contain a decimal number. Example: In the command: SET 2 OUTMUTE 3 4 1 We are telling E Desk device 2 to set the output mute Instance ID 3, output 4 (index1) to on.
* Can contain a decimal number. * Can contain a decimal number.
* Can contain a decimal number. * Can contain a decimal number. * Can contain a decimal number. * Can contain a decimal number.
Mixer Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: In the command: SET 1 AMMUTEXP 3 1 0 We are telling E Desk device 1 to set the automixer’s crosspoint (row 1, column 1) on instance ID 3 to off. Note: for attributes with 2 Index fields, Index1 is the row, and Index2 is the column. * Can contain a decimal number. Note: for attributes with 2 Index fields, Index 1 is the row, and Index2 is the column.
* Can contain a decimal number. Note: for attributes with 2 Index fields, Index1 is the row, and Index2 is the column. * Can contain a decimal number. Example: In the string SET 1 RMCMBWALL 4 2 1 We are telling Audia to set the 2nd 'wall' in the room combiner, Instance ID 4, up (separate rooms). Note: For wall state, Index1 represents the wall being opened or closed.
Equalizer Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. The Index field represents the filter to be controlled. EQ filter farthest to the left is #1, next one is #2 and so forth. Upper left hand area of Graphic EQ dialog screen displays, which numbered filter, is being adjusted, use this number as the Index1 for Graphic EQ strings. Example: In the string SET 2 GEQBYPALL 9 1 We are telling E Desk to bypass all bands on Graphic EQ Instance ID 9. * Can contain a decimal number.
Filter Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: SET 1 HSFTGAIN 100 –10 We are telling E Desk to set the High Shelf filter gain on instance ID 100 to –10dB. * Can contain a decimal number.
Crossover Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: GET 2 XOVR3FC 40 1 We are asking E Desk to tell us the 3-way crossover low-pass cutoff frequency on instance ID 40.
Dynamics Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: SET 3 CLIMBYP 55 0 We are telling E Desk to set the Comp/Limiter on instance ID 55 to active.
* Can contain a decimal number. Example: SET 1 ANCMUTEPGM 20 0 We are telling E Desk to set the ANC to unmute the program input on instance ID 20. Router Blocks Example: SET 1 RTRMUTEXP 98 4 5 0 Note: for attributes with 2 Index fields, Index1 is the row, and Index2 is the column.
Delay Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: SET 1 DLYCM 24 40 We are telling E Desk to set the delay block at instance ID 24 to 40 centimeters. Note: Value range is 0 to max value for the specific delay block. Example: a 50mSec delay has a maximum setting of 1763 centimeters, 17meters, 694 inches, and 57 feet. Control Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Note: Instead of SET/SETL, GET/GETL, INC, or DEC; the preset attribute uses RECALL as the Command.
Meter Blocks * Can contain a decimal number. Example: GET 1 RMSMTRLVL 48 1 We are asking E Desk the RMS Meter 1 level on instance ID 48. Generator Blocks No Attributes are specified at this time Instance ID Number E Desk uses an instance ID number to specify the exact DSP block to be controlled. Right click on the DSP block and select "Properties", the instance number can be found the DSP Attributes 1 tab.
Index Index refers to inputs, outputs, or cross points of an Attribute. Some Attributes will need an Index1 (Input or Row) and/or an Index2 (output or Column). The tables in the Attribute section will define which, if any, indexes are required for the string. Example: INC 1 AMLVLIN 4 1 1 In an Automatic mixer on device 1 we are increasing the level of input 1 on instance ID 4 by 1dB. Index1 is used to represent the input number.
Responses When a successful SET, SETL, INC, DEC, or RECALL command is sent to an Audia device via RS-232 or TCP/IP, Audia will respond with: ‘+OK’ followed by a carriage return and line feed. Example: Sending the string: SET 2 AMLVLIN 4 2 1< LF> will result in an: +OK response. A successful GET or GETL command will result in a numerical response to the command string followed by .
HyperTerminal HyperTerminal is a useful tool that comes with Windows and can be used for RS-232 purposes. Simply open a HyperTerminal session by going to: Start> Programs> Accessories> Communications> HyperTerminal. Enter a name for your connection and click ‘OK’. Under the pull-down menu labeled ‘Connect Using’ select the location of your RS-232 Comm. port. Under the Comm. port properties set it to 38400, 8, None, 1, and None as shown below. Now HyperTerminal is ready to use.
IP Address Commands E Desk has some useful IP and reset tools that may be useful when returning to older systems for service work. E Desk will automatically output its IP Address through the RS-232 port when it is powered up and functioning. Simply have a straight through RS-232 cable connected to E Desk and a PC with HyperTerminal running. When E Desk is powered up it will print the data in the HyperTerminal screen.
Index 2 2-Way Crossover Control Dialog.............................................................................................................. 60 3 3-Way Crossover Control Dialog.............................................................................................................. 61 4 4-Way Crossover Control Dialog.............................................................................................................. 62 A Align Edges....................................................
D DCS88 Input ............................................................................................................................................. 44 DCS88 Input/Output Expander ............................................................................................................... 100 DCS88 Output........................................................................................................................................... 45 Delay Blocks .........................................
Input/Output Blocks................................................................................................................................ 112 Instance ID Number ................................................................................................................................ 123 Invert ......................................................................................................................................................... 70 IP Address Commands.........................
Pass Through............................................................................................................................................. 82 Passwords.................................................................................................................................................. 33 Paste .................................................................................................................................................... 24, 27 Paste DSP Data ...................
Third-Party Control................................................................................................................................. 105 Toggle Grid............................................................................................................................................... 16 Toggle Ruler ............................................................................................................................................. 16 Tone Generator Control Dialog .............
