AEQ FORUM User manual

AEQ FORUM
DIGITAL AUDIO MIXER
FOR BROADCAST APPLICATIONS
USER’S MANUAL
ED. 05/11
V. 1.1 - 26/07/2011
Software version 3.13, June 2011

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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CONTENTS
Pág.
1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 4
1.1. General overview…......................................................................................... 4
1.2. Functional specifications.................................................................................. 5
2. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE UNIT...................................................................... 6
2.1. Description of the control surface…………...................................................... 6
2.1.1. Channels……………..……………………............................................ 6
2.1.1.1. Routing keys…………………...………...................................... 8
2.1.1.2. SELECT……….………………...……….................................... 8
2.1.1.3. Channel display……..………...………...................................... 8
2.1.1.4. CUE………………...………...................................................... 9
2.1.1.5. Indicators of active processes.…………................................... 9
2.1.1.6. ON AIR LED…......................................................................... 10
2.1.1.7. Fader………..…………………...……….................................... 10
2.1.1.8. Channel activation keys.……..…….......................................... 11
2.1.2. Control and monitoring section……………………..…………………… 11
2.1.2.1. Control VU meters……...………............................................... 12
2.1.2.2. Programmable keys…………...………..................................... 12
2.1.2.3. Main screen………………..………........................................... 13
2.1.2.4. Control room monitoring section.............................................. 14
2.1.2.5. Studio room monitoring section................................................ 15
2.1.2.6. Talkback...………..................................................................... 16
2.1.3. Ventilation grille….…………………..................................................... 16
2.1.4. Wrist-rest and side trims….................................................................. 17
2.2. Description of the rear panel and connections................................................ 18
2.2.1. Power supply………............................................................................ 19
2.2.2. System common I/O’s.……………...................................................... 19
2.2.2.1. GPIO……………………...……...……….................................... 20
2.2.2.1.1. Opto-coupled GPI…......................................................... 20
2.2.2.1.2. Opto-coupled GPO........................................................... 21
2.2.2.1.3. Physical contact GPO...................................................... 21
2.2.2.2. Ethernet ports….……...……...………....................................... 22
2.2.2.3. Synchronism…………...……...………...................................... 23
2.2.2.4. Control and studio monitors…….............................................. 23
2.2.2.5. Control and studio headphones............................................... 24
2.2.2.6. Orders microphone…..……...………........................................ 24
2.2.2.7. Optional MADI communications module.................................. 25
2.2.3. Audio inputs/outputs modules……….…………................................... 25
2.2.3.1. FR02 Digital inputs/outputs module......................................... 26
2.2.3.2. FR03 Mic/Line inputs module................................................... 27
2.2.3.3. FR04 Analogue line inputs module.......................................... 28
2.2.3.4. FR05 Analogue line outputs module........................................ 29
2.2.3.5. FR33 Telephone hybrid module……………............................. 30
2.2.4. Wiring.................................................................................................. 31
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU.................................................................... 32
3.1. “CLOCK” menu…………………………..…...................................................... 32
3.2. “LOGIN/LOGOUT” menu………………..…...................................................... 34
3.3. “MEMORY” menu………………………..…...................................................... 36
3.4. “MAIN MENU”……….………….……..…....................................................... 36
3.4.1. “INFO” menu..……..……………………............................................... 37
3.4.2. “SETUP” menu...……..……………………........................................... 38
3.4.3. “SELECT” menu…..……………………............................................... 39
3.4.3.1. “INPUT” menu…………………………………........................... 39
3.4.3.1.1. Dynamics menu: Compressor/Limiter and Noise Gate… 41
3.4.3.1.2. Equalizer and filter menu ………………………………….. 43
3.4.3.1.3. Expanded information menu………………………………. 44
3.4.3.1.3.1. “FADER” menu………………………………………. 45

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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3.4.3.1.3.2. “ROUTE” menu…………………………………….... 45
3.4.3.2. “OUTPUT” menu………………………………........................... 46
4. CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE….................................................................................. 48
4.1. “Administration” menu………………..….......................................................... 51
4.1.1. “Configurations” submenu................................................................... 51
4.1.2. “User Configuration” submenu............................................................ 54
4.1.3. “About Forum Setup” submenu....………………….............................. 56
4.2. “Hardware Configuration” menu.……………................................................... 56
4.2.1. “Board Configuration” submenu…...................................................... 57
4.2.1.1. “Module Configuration” section………...….….......................... 58
4.2.1.2. “Internal Module Configuration” section…..………..…….......... 59
4.2.2. “Mixer Bus Configuration” submenu…………..................................... 61
4.2.3. “I/O Configuration” submenu…...……………...................................... 63
4.2.3.1. Advanced configuration of input channels menu...................... 64
4.2.3.2. Advanced configuration of output channels menu................... 66
4.2.4. “Monitoring Configuration” submenu…….......……………................... 67
4.2.4.1. “Studio Room Section”…………............................................... 68
4.2.4.2. “Control Room Section”…………….......................................... 68
4.2.5. “NTP Client Configuration” submenu.………..………...…................... 69
4.3. “Programmable Configuration” menu………………......................................... 70
4.3.1. “Routing Configuration” submenu…..…….......................................... 70
4.3.2. “Programmable Keys” submenu..…..……........................................... 72
4.3.2.1. Basic configuration of programmable keys…........................... 72
4.3.2.2. Configuration of “General” programmable keys……................ 73
4.3.2.3. Configuration of “Salvo” programmable keys…….................... 74
4.3.2.4. Configuration of “Codec” programmable keys…….................. 76
4.3.2.5. Configuration of “Multiplex” programmable keys……............... 79
4.3.2.6. Configuration of “Cue Reset” programmable key…................. 80
4.3.3. “Mic Group Configuration” submenu................................................... 80
4.3.4. “Preset Configuration” submenu…...................................................... 82
4.3.4.1. Advanced configuration of Compressor/Limiter….................... 84
4.3.4.2. Advanced configuration of Noise Gate…................................. 86
4.3.4.3. Advanced configuration of Equalizer........................................ 87
4.3.4.4. Advanced configuration of Low Pass Filter.............................. 87
4.3.4.5. Advanced configuration of High Pass Filter............................. 88
4.3.5. “SnapShot Configuration” submenu.................................................... 89
4.3.5.1. Advanced configuration of inputs………………….................... 91
4.3.5.2. Advanced configuration of outputs………………..................... 92
4.3.5.3. Advanced configuration of internal summing buses................. 93
4.4. “Firmware Upgrade” menu……………………..…............................................ 94
4.4.1. “Tree View” submenu………………………......................................... 94
4.4.2. “Upgrade View” submenu….…………………...................................... 97
4.4.3. “Log View” submenu….…………………………................................... 98
5. A.E.Q. GUARANTEE…….………………......................................................................... 99

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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1. INTRODUCTION.
1.1. General overview.
AEQ FORUM is a digital audio mixer for Broadcast applications, specifically designed for ON
AIR applications and highly adaptable to different operational situations. It incorporates all the
basic features needed in such environments: automatic monitors muting, cough muting, fader-
start, signalling control, control signals for external equipment automation, management of
external communications, intercoms, etc.
The modular design and reduced size makes this mixer perfectly adaptable to many different
scenarios: self-control, control-studio, audio control in television, sound production, mixed
configurations, integration in large systems, etc.
One of the main qualities of AEQ FORUM is the extensive internal routing capacity which
provides: up to 64 inputs/outputs for analogue, digital or microphone audio signals, and another
64 input/output multichannel audio over a MADI link (in order to activate this function you must
purchase a user license).
NOTE: The exterior of the equipment and some screens or displays may vary depending on
version.
The power of control and simplicity are combined in AEQ FORUM to cover both basic and
advanced operating needs, starting with a 4 faders control surface that can easily be expanded
to 8 or 12 faders.
All basic functions of activation, level adjustment and routing have their specific controls on
each channel of the FORUM surface, while less common adjustments are included in a set of
contextual controls common to all channels and accessible with just one or two keystrokes:
simplicity and clarity of use for dynamic control without handling error.
The flexibility offered through the configuration of the AEQ FORUM enables the free assignment
of any audio input of the system to any control channel, and changing the distribution of signals
from the surface itself or the associated configuration software.
The AEQ FORUM digital mixer includes memory banks that store the settings for each signal:
control surface signal distribution, routing to the output buses, management of parameters and
activation of the different available audio processes. This allows the console to adapt easily to
different programs with different technical requirements.
Its two Ethernet ports enable the local or remote interconnectivity, facilitating set-up and
maintenance, monitoring and control.
Forum has also been designed to ensure interoperability with communications equipment and
future developments by AEQ or other manufacturers.

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1.2. Functional specifications.
•Self-contained Design.
•Configurable size of 4, 8 or 12 faders. Conductive plastic faders 100mm.
•Internal sampling rate 48 kHz to 24 bits. Variable through external clock referente.
•Modular design that allows you to adjust the number of inputs and outputs of the
equipment to the requirements of each facility. Front removable modules for easy
maintenance.
oUp to 14 modules of multiple inputs and outputs, out of which 4 can be double
micro- line and 2 digital hybrid.
oElectronically balanced microphone inputs with phantom power.
oElectronically balanced analogue line Inputs and outputs. Adjustable gain ±
12dB. Balance/panoramic control selectable for all channels. Selective phase
inversion. Adjustable gain for up to 128 signals, including hidden signals.
oTransformer balanced digital inputs and outputs with adjustable gain ± 12 dB.
Balance/panoramic control selectable for all channels. Selective phase
inversion. Adjustable gain for up to 128 signals, including hidden signals.
oSample rate converter (SRC) for all digital inputs. Supports AES/EBU and S-
PDIF digital signal formats.
oAdditional input, integrated talk-back and auto-control micro-line.
oIntegrated monitor and headphone outputs for control and studio. Cough mute,
ON-AIR signalling for studio and control, fader-start, remote PFL, talk-back,
automatic monitors muting. Monitoring can be configured for any of the system
signals.
oCUE output and integrated CUE speaker.
oHeadphone outputs integrated into the chassis.
oPFL Monitor integrated in chassis.
oOptional 64 channels digital MADI optical fiber connection (available by means
of user license).
oTest tone (1KHz) generator.
o8 Opto-coupled GPI´s and GPO´s and 4 relay contact GPO´s.
•4 direct routing buttons on each channel.
•Internal Routing 64x64 mono, with additional capability for routing signals from the
optional MADI interface (available by means of user license).
•All signals assignable to any control channel.
•Configuration of up to 8 MPX internal buses.
•2 precision stereo VU meters.
•Externally synchronized clock, timer and stopwatch.
•Control of external equipment (AEQ hybrids and audio codecs) integrated in the
programmable key section.
•Communication control via Ethernet 10/100 connection through TCP / IP protocol. For
more information see chapter “4. CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE” of this manual.
•Memory banks for mixer snapshots or settings of all the available signals: up to 7
available memories.
•Processing of audio signals including system defaults to the basic configuration.
oAudio processing capacity for up to 20 stereo signals (up to 12 in Fader and 8
hidden).
oAll audio processes are predefined but always allow manual adjustment in real
time and associated non-volatile memory storage system.
oAudio effects are available: parametric equalizer, high and low pass filters,
compressor/limiter and noise gate.
•Noiseless natural convection. AEQ FORUM is particularly suitable for self-operation
formats.
•Optional redundant power supply.

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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2. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE UNIT.
AEQ FORUM is a self-contained, compact digital mixing console, which means that its two
functional blocks are housed in the same physical chassis. On one hand the control surface,
where the controls and status indicators are located and on the other, the "audio engine" which
contains all electronics for audio inputs and outputs as well as routing blocks, summing and
processing.
Both functional blocks will be separately described below.
2.1. Description of the control surface.
Control surface is the operators work area of the AEQ FORUM. All the operational organization,
management and implementation of the audio program is accomplished from this area. The
control surface incorporates all the keys, screens, faders, encoders and VU meters required to
easily operate the equipment.
There are two different areas on the AEQ FORUM control surface: the area that corresponds to
the audio channels controlled through faders (each module includes 4 faders) and the
"CONTROL AND MONITORING MODULE" which is normally located to the right.
2.1.1. Channels.
The control surface of AEQ FORUM is built on independent modules of 4 faders called "FRCH".
The control surface capacity can be expanded from a basic configuration of 4 channel faders to
8 and up to 12 channel faders.
The assignment of signals to channel faders on the AEQ FORUM is completely user definable.
It is possible to assign any signal to any channel fader at any time. This allows for the re-
distribution channels to adapt to different programs or operators.
In addition, different channel assignment of signals can be stored in memory to be used by
different users or applications.
In addition to the signals on channel faders present on the control surface that can be mixed,
processed and sent to any output channel, the AEQ FORUM is capable of routing and adjusting
the levels for other hidden signals up to 128x128 audio signals.

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Located in the upper part of the channel are 4 routing keys (“PROGRAM“,“AUDITION“,“AUX1“
and “AUX 2“) and a “SELECT” button to assign the channel to advanced settings common
control (gain, dynamics, EQ and balance).
Beneath this section, an OLED display shows channel name and status for balance or pan.
Immediately under the display is located the Pre-listen button “CUE”, 4 status indicators LEDs
that alerts with regards to the activation of equalization (“EQ“), dynamics (“DYN“), balance
(“BAL“) and gain (“GAIN“). Also in this section, a luminous label indicating that the channel is
activated and is sending signal to the output buses (“ON AIR”).
By pressing the “SELECT” button the advanced configuration functions are enabled. These
configurations are accomplished within the integrated multifunction display in the control and
monitoring section at the far right of the control surface. Its operation is based on rotary encoder
and graphical menus and short-cut function keys, depending on the information shown on
screen.
Among the general functions are the instant activation and adjustment of audio effects (EQ,
filters, limiters, etc.), configurations and memories management, disconnection of applied
effects, phase change, inserting of a test signal, as well as clock, timer and stopwatch for timing
control, etc. For more information see chapter “3. DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU”
of this manual.
The Channel module is completed with plastic conductive sliding faders and the Channel ON
and OFF buttons.

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2.1.1.1. Routing keys.
There are four keys on the top of the channel that routes the channel signal to the
corresponding output bus. Activation is indicated through the integrated LEDs in each of these
keys, and indicates the creation of a cross point between the input signal on the channel and
the output channel corresponding to the key.
From left to right and top to bottom, the four keys of direct routing are “PROGRAM“ (sending to
master 1), “AUDITION“ (sending to master 2), “AUX1“ (sending to auxiliar 1) y “AUX2“ (sending
to auxiliar 2). The allocation of physical outputs associated with these signals and the physical
circuits of the inputs/outputs modules on the back of AEQ FORUM is accomplished from the
configuration software. For more information, please refer to chapter “4. CONFIGURATION
SOFTWARE” of this manual.
2.1.1.2. SELECT.
The control surface of AEQ FORUM offers the usual controls for a mixing console on each
channel, but AEQ FORUM also offers a wide range of possibilities for routing and processing,
beyond the physical options included in each channel. These possibilities have been distributed
in a logical manner within internal menus accessible from the main screen of the Control and
Monitoring section.
The operation is intuitive, always beginning with pressing the “SELECT” button on the channel
that you want to process and moving to the main screen of the Control and Monitoring section
of the console to accomplish the activations or adjustments. For further details please refer to
chapter 3.4.3.1 of this manual.
2.1.1.3. Channel display.
Each of the 12, 8 or 4 channels (depending on the AEQ FORUM configuration ordered)
integrates a two-colour OLED display (yellow/black) showing:
•Name of the associated audio signal (maximum 6 characters,
editable via the configuration software). For more information see
chapter “4. CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE” of this manual.
•Status of balance between left (L) and right signal (R) in stereo
signals (or panoramic for monophonic signals).

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2.1.1.4. CUE.
This button allows you to activate a pre-fader listening to the audio channel for monitoring and
control. When activated the integrated LED is lit. It is possible to send the audio signals of
several channels to the CUE bus, acting as a summing bus.
There is the option of setting one of the programmable keys on the Control and Monitoring
section (C&M) as a general “CUE RESET” that disconnects all active signals from the CUE bus.
CUE signal associated controls
The CUE speaker is built-in in the upper right of the control surface, beneath the ventilation
grille, and the volume control is through an encoder in the Control and Monitoring section of the
control surface.
2.1.1.5. Indicators of active processes.
Under the “CUE” button there are four blue LEDs with corresponding labels, from left to right
and top to bottom, “EQ” (equalizer), “BAL” (balance), “DYN” (dynamic processor) and “GAIN”.
The lit status indicates the activation of any of the four processes previously mentioned in a
certain fader channel.
These four processes (EQ, dynamics, balance and gain) are controlled from the internal menu
associated with the “SELECT” button on the main screen of the Control and Monitoring section.
CUE SPEAKER
CUE SELECTION
CUE RESET
CUE VOLUME
CUE SENDING TO
SRM AND SRHP (studio
monitors and headphones)
CUE SENDING TO
CRM AND CRHP (control
monitors and headphones)

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2.1.1.6. ON AIR LED.
Under the lights of active processes is located the “ON AIR” warning light. This light is ON when
the audio signal present at the input of the channel is sent to any of the outputs previously
described (see section “3.4.3.1.3.2 ROUTE menu” of this manual).
For this, two conditions must be met simultaneously:
•Channel fader is located in any position except at minimum of travel of the fader.
•Channel ON key is activated.
2.1.1.7. Fader.
100mm conductive plastic fader. The fader travel is printed with 11 bands, the maximum output
level +22dB corresponding to the last, and the third band from above to +0dB or nominal
operating level. Both of these marks are differentiated in size from the rest.
The response mode of the fader is logarithmic, producing great attenuation of the level at the
bottom of the fader travel and less adjustment at the top.
The bottom position of the fader travel, triggers gain -∞dB or absence of signal, which is also
reflected in the channel “ON AIR” indicador (it turns off).

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2.1.1.8. Channel activation keys.
The channel activation keys, “CHANNEL ON/OFF”, enable or disable the sending of the audio
signal present at the channel input to the outputs previously defined. If the sliding fader is
located in any position of the fader travel other than the minimum, the channel on or off
activation will be reflected through the “ON AIR” indicator previously described.
The upper key is associated to ON function and has a red light built in and the lower one is
associated to OFF function and has a yellow light. The operation is exclusive, both keys can not
be turned on simultaneously.
These keys can be activated remotely by GPI. To configure remote activation, see chapter
4.2.3.1 of this manual.
2.1.2. Control and monitoring section.
The control and monitoring section (C&M) of the control surface is usually located to the right.
This section enables the overall management of the signals on the system, including routing
and control processes, as well as monitoring of the signals used in developing the final
program, by means of the VU-Meters, and CUE control.
This control and monitoring section is divided into four main areas:
•Control VU meters: allows you to monitor visually the level of the audio signals from
the master output and the CUE bus.
•Programmable keys: dedicated buttons with special functions defined through the
configuration software.
•Main screen: it displays the internal menus. This section also incorporates contextual
keys and encoders.
•Studio, Control and Talk-back monitoring: where you can manage the audio signals
sent to the headphones and speakers, for the control room and the studio room, as well
as the talk-back functions for the intercom for both areas.

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2.1.2.1. Control VU meters.
There are two 40 segment LED stereo VU meters. The upper one shows the program output
and the lower one the CUE bus.
From left to right, the first 25 LEDs are green, followed by an area of 5 yellow LEDs to finish
with an area of 10 red LEDs. 0dB point or nominal value corresponds to the the yellow LED
adjacent to the first red LED.
Both VU meters are set to function as IEC268-10: 5ms/-2dB (vu-meter only) and the peak-meter
IEC268-17: 300 ms (vu-meter & Flying PPM) superimposed.
2.1.2.2. Programmable keys.
The Control and Monitoring area of the AEQ FORUM includes 15 programmable keys in three
rows of 5 columns.
These programmable keys can be configured through software to perform specific functions
such as salvos, GPI, GPO, external codecs control. For more information see section 4.2.1.2 of
this manual.

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The operation of the programmable keys allows two possibilities:
•NORMAL: the pressing of the key triggers the the execution of the programmed action.
Pressing it again will produce the end of the previously launched action, or in the case
of SALVOS, even the opposite action or disconnection of the SALVO.
•PTT (PUSH-TO-TALK): the pressing of the key will trigger the execution of the
programmed action but only remains active as long as you keep the button pressed.
All keys can be easily labelled, removing the translucent plastic cover and inserting a text label.
AEQ supplies with the equipment a template that allows you to create these labels on clear
acetate or plain paper.
2.1.2.3. Main screen.
The main screen is a two coloured OLED (yellow/black) 128x64 pixel resolution display, that
shows the entire internal advanced menu of the AEQ FORUM. For more information see section
“3. DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU” of this manual.
To simplify operations in the internal menu shown on this screen there are four short-cut keys
and three associated rotary encoders. Depending on the information shown on the last line of
the menu screen visible on the main display, these short-cut keys will have a function or
another.
At most, the last line will have four menu options visible from left to right, and they are directly
associated with short-cut keys from left to right.
The three rotary encoders are related to the remaining lines of the menu. Each screen is
described in chapter 3 of this manual but the thumb-rule for the association of the rotary
encoder to the visible functions is: option visible to the left or in the upper part of the menu is
controlled from the encoder located to the left. In many cases the encoders are represented and
labelled on the screen for easy operation.

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2.1.2.4. Control room monitoring section.
Located in the lower right corner of the AEQ FORUM control surface are a two-coloured display,
three rotary encoders and four keys.
•In the two-coloured OLED display are shown the output levels for the control monitoring
signals and the selected sources in each case, for control headset, control speakers
and CUE.
•The three rotary encoders, from left to right, are:
o“MONITOR“: it controls the audio level for the physical output for the control
room monitors. To decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase
the level turn the encoder to the right.
o“HP/SOURCE“:it controls the audio level for the physical output for the control
headphones. To decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase the
level turn the encoder to the right. This encoder can also be used to select the
signal to monitor associated with the key “SEL”: press to access a list of
signals, and turn the encoder to move up or down in the list of signals; pushing
the encoder a second time confirms the selection of the highlighted signal.
o“CUE“: it controls the audio level of the CUE speaker of the AEQ FORUM. To
decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase the level turn the
encoder to the right.
•The four keys under the display allows to select the signal to monitor on control
speakers and headset, from left to right:
o“PROG“: allows you to monitor the audio signal Program.
o“AUD“: allows you to monitor the audio signal Audition.
o“SEL“: allows you to monitor any signal of the console previously selected by
means of “HP/SOURCE“ encoder.
o“CUE“: allows you to monitor the audio signal present on the CUE bus.
These four keys can have two working modes, that are selected from the Configuration
Software (see section 4.2.4 of this manual):

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oNormal: each key pressed adds the signal to be monitored to the summing
bus.
oExclusive: each key pressed connects the signal to the summing bus and
disconnects any signal previously selected.
2.1.2.5. Studio room monitoring section.
Located in the lower left corner of the AEQ FORUM control surface are a two-coloured display,
three rotary encoders and four keys.
•In the two-coloured OLED display are shown the output levels for the studio monitoring
signals and the selected sources in each case, for studio headset, studio speakers and
CUE.
•The three rotary encoders, from left to right, are:
o“LEVEL” (Talkback Level): it controls the gain of the TALKBACK microphone.
To decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase the level turn the
encoder to the right.
o“MONITOR“: it controls the audio level for the physical output for the studio
room monitors. To decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase
the level, turn the encoder to the right.
o“HP/SOURCE“:it controls the audio level for the physical output for the studio
headphones. To decrease the level turn the encoder to the left. To increase the
level, turn the encoder to the right. This encoder can also be used to select the
signal to monitor associated with the key “SEL”: press to access a list of
signals, and turn the encoder to move up or down in the list of signals; pushing
the encoder a second time confirms the selection of the highlighted signal.
•The four keys under the display allows to select the signal to monitor on studio
speakers and headset, from left to right:
o“PROG“: allows you to monitor the audio signal Program.
o“AUD“: allows you to monitor the audio signal Audition.
o“SEL“: allows you to monitor any signal of the console previously selected by
means of “HP/SOURCE“ encoder.
o“CUE“: allows you to monitor the audio signal present on the CUE bus.

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These four keys can have two working modes, that are selected from the Configuration
Software (see section 4.2.4 of this manual):
oNormal: each key pressed adds the signal to be monitored to the summing
bus.
oExclusive: each key pressed connects the signal to the summing bus and
disconnects any signal previously selected.
2.1.2.6. Talkback.
Talk-back section allows the console operator to communicate directly with the studio and
remote guests (lines).
The default intercom channels for the AEQ FORUM are between the control room and the
studio, independent between monitors and headphones. You can set additional channels of
intercom to facilitate communications. For example, talk-back can be established between
studio or control to the different audio returns to hybrids or audio-codecs. The talk-back
microphone can also be used as an auto-control microphone if so defined.
The talk-back section of the control surface consists of 4 key buttons immediately beneath the
Studio and Control sections and the encoder “LEVEL” (Talkback Level) of the Studio monitoring
section.
From left to right are:
•“MON“: talk-back to studio monitors.
•“HP“: talk-back to studio headphones. The default configuration of the AEQ FORUM
does not differentiate between primary and secondary headphones. It is possible to
establish a secondary group of headphone creating a salvo to be triggered from the
programmable keys.
•“TEL 1“: talk-back to the telephone hybrid line 1 (AEQ FORUM allows a maximum of 2
single line digital telephone hybrid modules FR33, but has 8 MPX internal buses hidden
that can be used with dedicated lines, external audio codecs or telephone hybrids. The
talk-back to dedicated lines, external audio-codecs or telephone hybrids can be
established through the use of the programmable keys).
•“TEL 2“: talk-back to the telephone hybrid line 2.
2.1.3. Ventilation grille.
The base of the equipment and the top of the control surface have micro-perforations to allow
the passing of a stream of air naturally created by convection due to the heat dissipated by the
equipment electronics. The distance form the equipment base to the table top has to be
respected by at least the height of the equipment rubber feet and it is paramount not to obstruct
the ventilation grille on the top of the control surface.

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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The AEQ FORUM design does not include a fan or mechanical heat sink thus ensuring silent
operation, perfect for self-control facilities or applications that require absolute silence.
The right side of the vent area integrates the CUE speaker.
2.1.4. Wrist-rest and side trims.
The AEQ FORUM has a frame around the sides and bottom of the control surface, forming part
of the chassis that houses all the electronics. This framework is transformed into a wrist-rest at
the bottom.
NOTE: the colours associated with wrist and side trims are subject to change depending on the
console version requested.
The standard AEQ FORUM is delivered with wooden side trims and a wrist-rest for desktop
installation of the mixer. As an option, the AEQ FORUM can be provided without the side trims
and with L-shaped metal profiles to allow the countersunk installation of the mixing console.

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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2.2. Description of the rear panel and connections.
The ease of installation and set-up has been a priority in the design of AEQ FORUM. The
equipment is self-contained and can be installed either desktop or countersunk.
To connect cough cut, remote control of external devices, ON AIR lights, etc... AEQ FORUM
has 8 general purpose inputs (GPI), 8 general purpose outputs (GPO) and another 4 relay
outputs. The AEQ FORUM has a set of predefined control and studio monitors and headphones
including auto-control and orders microphone. Remote configuration and control is via two
Ethernet connections.
AEQ FORUM has an optional bi-directional MADI interface (available by means of user license)
that can carry up to 64 digital inputs and outputs as well as 14 slots for analogue or digital I/O
and digital telephone hybrid modules.
For ease of wiring and avoid errors in the installation process, audio and data cables and DB
connectors required to connect the console can be optionally supplied. In any event, it is
necessary to use shielded and balanced audio cables and that the connection to the DB
connectors are made by technically qualified personnel and properly verified before connecting
the equipment. Further, optional power supplies and wiring for control and studio signalling and
GPIO can be supplied.
The AEQ FORUM´s 14 available slots for inputs/outputs modules are labelled from 1 to 14
starting from the right of the console, rear view, reserving the number 15 for the system
common I/O module, and the name AES10 MADI for the MADI interface option (available by
means of user license). These references are the same as those used in the configuration
software. For more information see chapter “3. DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU” of
this manual.
A C
B
15
1
4
4321
MADI

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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2.2.1. Power supply.
On the left side of rear FORUM is placed the power supply module which incorporates the
DC/DC converters that provides the internal circuitry power of the console. Externally you can
see the 48V DC Speak-On connector to which the external 48V DC power supply is connected.
The power supply provided is switching and supports between 100 and 240VAC, delivering
160W-3, 34A @ 48 V DC.
AEQ FORUM external power supply
On request, a redundant 2RU rack-mounted power supply can be delivered. In the case of
installing this redundant power supply, it has to be adequately located so as to avoid the hum of
the fans installed in the power supply being picked up by any microphone.
Redundant power supply for AEQ FORUM
2.2.2. System common I/O’s.
This section of the AEQ FORUM rear panel includes inputs and outputs required to integrate
the equipment in a broadcast facility such as audio outputs to several external speakers and
headphones, general purpose inputs and outputs allowing remote options, talk-back
microphone...
A
B

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Digital audio mixer for broadcast applications
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2.2.2.1. GPIO.
AEQ FORUM incorporates several electronic general purpose interfaces (GPIO), either of the
opto-coupled or physical contact type and always available on the rear panel of the unit
2.2.2.1.1. Opto-coupled GPI.
The AEQ FORUM includes 8 electronic interface of opto-coupled type GPIs through the two
female DB9 connectors in the “GP INPUTS” section. One of them houses the GPIs numbered
from 1 to 4 and the other one from 5 to 8.
Specifications:
•Opto-coupler protected inputs (TLP127).
•Maximum Input Current: 50mA.
•Applicable voltage: from 5V to 24V.
Electronic associated with opto-coupled GPI
In order to simplify the installation, AEQ offers a prefabricated wiring kit specifically for GPI
inputs: CAB FR GPI, male DB9 connector soldered to 4 meters of cable open-end termination
for GPI. More information in section 2.2.4 of this manual.
GPI inputs (2 x SUB-D female 9 pin):
Pin GP INPUTS 1 To 4
connector GP INPUTS 5 To 8 connector
1 GPIN1 GPIN5
2 GPIN2 GPIN6
3 GPIN3 GPIN7
4 GPIN4 GPIN8
5 Not connected Not connected
6 GND_GPIN1 GND_GPIN5
7 GND_GPIN2 GND_GPIN6
8 GND_GPIN3 GND_GPIN7
9 GND_GPIN4 GND_GPIN8
OPTO-COUPLED
GENERAL
PURPOSE
INPUTS
RELAY CONTACT
GENERAL
PURPOSE
OUTPUTS
OPTO-COUPLED
GENERAL PURPOSE
OUTPUTS