AEQ FORUM User manual

AEQ FORUM - DIGITAL AUDIO MIXER FOR BROADCAST APPLICATIONS
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AEQ FORUM
DIGITAL AUDIO MIXER FOR BROADCAST APPLICATIONS
USER'S MANUAL
ED. 12/10v2

AEQ FORUM - DIGITAL AUDIO MIXER FOR BROADCAST APPLICATIONS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................... 3
1.1. O VERVIEW ........................................................................................................................... 3
1.2. F UNCTIONAL SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................ 4
2. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE UNIT............................................................................... 6
2.1. D ESCRIPTION OF THE CONTROL SURFACE .............................................................................. 6
2.1.1. Channels..................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.2. Monitoring and Control Section ................................................................................ 11
2.1.3. VENTILATION GRILLE ............................................................................................ 17
2.1.4. Wrist-rest and side trims........................................................................................... 17
2.2. R EAR P ANEL O VERVIEW AND C ONNECTIONS ....................................................................... 18
2.2.1. Power Supply............................................................................................................ 19
2.2.2. Common System I/O´s ............................................................................................. 19
2.2.3. Audio Input/Output modules ..................................................................................... 27
2.2.4. Wiring........................................................................................................................ 33
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU........................................................................... 34
3.1. CLOCK M ENU ................................................................................................................... 34
3.2. LOGIN / LOGOUT M ENU .................................................................................................. 36
3.3. MEMORY M ENU ............................................................................................................... 37
3.4. M AIN M ENU ........................................................................................................................ 38
3.4.1. INFO Menu ............................................................................................................... 39
3.4.2. SETUP Menu............................................................................................................ 40
3.4.3. SELECT Menu.......................................................................................................... 40
4. CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE ............................................................................................ 49
4.1. ADMINISTRATION MENU ................................................................................................. 51
4.1.1. CONFIGURATIONS sub-menu ................................................................................ 51
4.1.2. USER CONFIGURATION sub-menu ....................................................................... 52
4.1.3. Sub-menu - ABOUT FORUM SETUP ...................................................................... 54
4.2. HARDWARE CONFIGURATION M ENU ........................................................................... 54
4.2.1. BOARD CONFIGURATION sub-menu..................................................................... 55
4.2.2. MIXER BUS CONFIGURATION sub-menu ............................................................. 59
4.2.3. I/O CONFIGURATION Sub-menu ............................................................................ 61
4.2.4. MONITORING CONFIGURATION sub-menu.......................................................... 64
4.2.5. NTP Client Configuration Sub-menu ........................................................................ 66
4.3. PROGRAMMABLE CONFIGURATION M ENU ................................................................. 67
4.3.1. ROUTING CONFIGURATION sub-menu................................................................. 68
4.3.2. PROGRAMMABLE KEYS Sub-menu....................................................................... 70
4.3.3. MIC GROUP CONFIGURATION sub-menu ............................................................ 77
4.3.4. PRESET CONFIGURATION .................................................................................... 79
4.3.5. Sub-menu SNAPSHOT CONFIGURATION............................................................. 85
4.4. FIRMWARE UPGRADE MENU .......................................................................................... 90
4.4.1. TREE VIEW sub-menu............................................................................................. 91
4.4.2. UPGRADE VIEW sub-menu..................................................................................... 93
4.4.3. LOG VIEW Sub-menu .............................................................................................. 94
5. REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE......................................................................................... 95
6. STANDARD AEQ PRODUCT GUARANTEE......................................................................... 96

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Overview
AEQ FORUM is a digital audio mixer for Broadcast applications, specifically designed for ON
AIR applications (24x7x365 operation) and highly adaptable to different operational situations. It
incorporates all the basic features needed in such environments: automatic monitor muting,
cough muting, Fader-start, control signalling, 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 audio, digital or microphone, and another 64
input / output multi-channel audio over a MADI link.
Aspect of the compact digital console AEQ FORUM. 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 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 ergonomically designed 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.

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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.
1.2. Functional specifications
•AEQ FORUM is a digital compact audio console fully DSP based.
•Self-contained Design over anodized metal.
•Configurable sizes 12, 8 and 4 faders. Conductive plastic faders 100mm.
•Internal sampling rate 48 kHz to 24 bits like internal reference signal (SRC available
for other word-length according FW version). Digital I/O reference variable through
external clock reference like for example 44.1KHz, 48KHz or 96KHz.
•Modular design allows adjust the number of inputs and outputs of the equipment to
the requirements of each facility. Front removable modules for easy maintenance.
•Up to 14 modules or multiple inputs and outputs, out of which 4 can be
micro-double line and 2 digital hybrid.
•Electronically balanced microphone inputs with phantom power.
•Electronically balanced line Inputs and outputs. Adjustable gain ± 12dB.
Balance and panoramic control selectable for all channels. Selective phase
inversion. Adjustable gain for up to 128 signals, including hidden signals.
•Transformer balanced Digital inputs and outputs with adjustable gain ± 12
dB. Balance and panoramic control selectable for all channels. Selective
phase inversion. Adjustable gain for up to 128 signals, including hidden
signals.
•Sample rate converter (SRC) for all digital inputs. Supports digital signal
formats, AES / EBU (ref AEE3-1992) and S-PDIF.
•Additional input, integrated talk-back and auto-control micro-line.
•Integrated 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.
•CUE output and integrated CUE speaker.
•Headphone outputs integrated into the chassis.
•PFL Monitor integrated in chassis.
•Optional 64 channels digital MADI optical fiber connection.
•Test tone generator.
•8 Opto-coupled GPI´s and GPO´s and 4 relay contact GPO´s.
•4 direct routing buttons on each channel.
•Entire switching is over solid-state digital switches.
•Internal Routing 64x64 mono, with additional capability for routing signals from the
optional MADI interface. Optional independent pre-fader / post-fader for all routings.
•Complete digital control circuits.
•All signals assignable to any control channel.
•Configuration of up to 8 auxiliary outputs N-1.
•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.

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•Communication control via Ethernet 10/100 connection through TCP / IP protocol.
For more information see Chapter 4.-Configuration and Chapter 5.-REMOTE
CONTROL SOFTWARE of this manual.
•Selectable Boot sequence – last mixer settings or default settings.
•Memory banks for mixer snapshots or settings of all the available signals: a basic
configuration and 6 users definable.
•Processing of audio signals including system defaults to the basic configuration.
Audio processing capacity for up to 20 stereo signals (up to 12 in Fader and 8
hidden).
•All audio processes are predefined but always allow manual adjustment in real time
and associated non-volatile memory storage system.
•Audio effects are available: 3-bands 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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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 in and outputs as well as routing blocks, summing and
processing.
2.1. Description of the control surface
Control surface is the operators work area of the AEQ FORUM. All the operational organisation,
management and implementation of the audio program are 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.
4 FADER MODULE
4 FADER MODULE 4 FADER MODULE CONTROL AND
MONITORING
SECTION
AEQ FORUM control surface
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 12channel 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 people or applications like quick-access.
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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AEQ FORUM Control Surface - Channel module
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, and 4 LED status indicators
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 any of 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.
Multifunction display with 4 keys and 3 contextual rotary encoders associated
Among the general functions are the instant activation and adjustment of audio effects: EQ,
filters, limiters, etc., Configuration and memory management, disconnection of effects applied,
clock, timer and stopwatch for timing control , phase change, inserting of test signals.. 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. 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.
Routing keys
From left to right and top to bottom, the four keys are direct routings to PROGRAM or Master 1,
AUDITION or master 2, AUX1 and AUX2. The allocation of physical outputs associated with
these signals and the physical circuits of the input/output modules on the back of AEQ FORUM
is accomplished from the configuration software. For more information, please refer to chapter 4
of this manual - SOFTWARE SETUP.
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.-DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERNAL MENU of this manual.
2.1.1.3. Display Channel
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.-SOFTWARE
CONFIGURATION of this manual)
•Status of balance between left signal (L) and right (R) stereo signals (or panoramic for
monophonic signals).
Display in channel fader

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2.1.1.4. CUE
Pre-fader listen to the audio channel for monitoring and control. When activated the integrated
LED is lit. It is possible to send various audio signals to the CUE bus.
There is the option of setting one of the 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
A CUE speaker is built-in in the upper right of the control surface and 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 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 status
indicates the activation of any of the four processes mentioned.
.
Active processes lights
CUE SELECTION CUE RESETCUE SPEAKER
CUE SEND TO SRM, SHP,
CRM and CRHP

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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.
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. For further details refer to section 3.4.3.1.3.2 ROUTING 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 has to be activated.
ON AIR Indicator
2.1.1.7. Fader
100mm conductive plastic fader. The fader travel is printed with 11 bands, the maximum output
level +24 dB corresponding to the last, and the third band from above to +4 dB or nominal
operating level. Both of these marks are differentiated in size from the rest.
100mm fader calibration
The response mode of the fader is logarithmic, producing great attenuation of the level at the
bottom of the fader travel and less adjustment 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 indicator – off. There is around 20db of reserve gain from
nominal +4dB operation level and +24 maximum operation level.
+24dB
+4dB

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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 input to the outputs. 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.
Channel activation indicators
The upper key – CHANNEL ON has a red light built in and the lower – CHANNLE OFF yellow.
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. Monitoring and Control Section
The control and monitor section (C & M) of the control surface is located to the right. This
section enables the overall management of the signals on the system, including routing and
control processes. Monitoring of the signals used in developing the final program can be done
using the VU-Meters and CUE controls.
This section to control and monitor is divided into four main areas:
•Control VU meters, can visually monitor the levels for 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, which displays the internal menus. This section also incorporates
contextual keys and encoders.
•Studio, Control and Talk-back monitoring, where you manage the audio signals sent
to the headphones and speakers, both for the control room and the studio. Further,
the talk-back functions for the intercom for both areas (Control and Studio) is also
managed from this section.
ONAIR Indicator
Channel OFF
Channel ON

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Control and Monitoring section
2.1.2.1. Control VU meters
There are four 40 segment LED level meters configured by default like two stereo meters. The
upper represents the MASTER output and the lower 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. 0dB point or nominal value corresponds to the yellow LED adjacent to
the first red LED.
VU Control
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. Other ballistics available according
FW version configured.
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.
VU Meters
Programmable
Keys
Main Display
Studio, Control
and Talkback
Monitoring

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These programmable keys can be configured through software to perform specific functions
such as SALVOS, GPI, GPO, external codec control. For more information see section 4.2.1.2.
INTERNAL MODULE CONFIGURATION of this manual.
Section programmable keys
The operation of the programmable keys allows two possibilities:
•NORMAL, The pressing of the key triggers the execution of the scheduled action.
Pressing it again will produce the end of the previously launched action, or in the case
of SALVOS, the opposite action or disconnection of the SALVO..
•PTT, PUSH-TO-TALK, the pressing of the key will trigger the execution of the pre-
programmed action but only remains active for as long as you keep the button pressed.
All keys can easily be labelled, removing the translucent plastic cover and inserting a text label.
AEQ supplies with the equipment a template that allows for the creation of 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,
showing the entire internal advanced menu of the AEQ FORUM. For more information see
section 3.-DESCRIPTION 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 on the last line of the menu screen visible on the main display,
these short-cut keys have a function or another.
At most, the last line will have four menu options visible from left to right, and are directly
associated with short-cut keys from left to right.
OLED display and associated controls

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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.
2.1.2.4. Control Monitoring section
Located in the lower right corner of the AEQ FORUM control surface are three rotary encoders,
a tow-coloured display and four keys.
In the tow-coloured OLED display are shown the output levels for the control monitor signals
and the selected sources in each case, control headset, control speakers and CUE.
Control Monitoring section
The three rotary encoders, from left to right:
1. MONITOR: 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.
2. HP / SOURCE: controls the audio level for the physical output for the 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
and is associated with the key called SEL: Press to access a list of signals, and
turning the encoder moves up or down in the list of signals. Pushing the encoder a
second time confirms the selection of the highlighted signal.
Control Monitoring display
3. CUE: 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.

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The keys under the display allow select the signal to monitor on monitor speakers and headset,
from left to right:
•PROG, monitor the audio signal “Master 1”.
•AUD, monitor the audio signal “AUDITION” or Master 2.
•SEL, allows monitor any signal of the console selected from the encoder CHP /
SOURCE.
•CUE, selects the audio signal(s) present on the CUE bus.
These four keys can have two working modes that are defined from the Configuration Software:
•NORMAL: each key pressed adds the signal to be monitored to the summing bus.
•EXCLUSIVE, each key pressed connects the signal to the summing bus and
disconnects any signal previously selected.
2.1.2.5. Studio Monitoring section
Located in the lower left corner of the AEQ FORUM control surface are three rotary encoders, a
two-coloured display and four keys.
In the two-coloured OLED display are shown the output levels for the studio monitor signals and
the selected sources in each case, studio headset, studio monitors (speakers) and talk-back
level.
Studio Monitoring section
The three rotary encoder, from left to right control:
•LEVEL (TALKBACK LEVEL), 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.
•MONITOR: 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.
•HP / SOURCE: controls the audio level for the physical output for the 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 and is
associated with the key labelled SEL: Press to access a list of signals, and turning the
encoder moves up or down in the list of signals. Pushing the encoder a second time
confirms the selection of the highlighted signal.

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Studio Monitoring display
•The keys under the display allows to select the signal to monitor on monitor speakers
and headset, from left to right:
•PROG, monitor the audio signal “Master 1”.
•AUD, monitor the audio signal “AUDITION” or Master 2.
•SEL, allows monitor any signal of the console selected from the encoder HP/SOURCE.
•CUE, selects the audio signal(s) present on the CUE bus.
These four keys can have two working modes that are defined from the Configuration Software:
•NORMAL: each key pressed adds the signal to be monitored to the summing bus.
•EXCLUSIVE, each key pressed connects the signal to the summing bus and
disconnects any signal previously selected.
2.1.2.6. Talk-back
Talk-back section allows the console operator to communicate privately 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.
Talk-back related controls
The talk-back section of the control surface consists in 4 key buttons immediately beneath the
Studio and Control sections and the encoder LEVEL (TBACK level) of the Studio monitor
control 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 a telephone hybrid line 1. AEQ FORUM allows a maximum of 2
single line digital telephone hybrid modules, but has 8 auxiliary buses hidden that can
Talkback mic
gain control
Talkback send

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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 a 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 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 a CUE speaker.
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.
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.
AEQ FORUM.
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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2.2. Rear Panel Overview 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 order microphone. Remote configuration and control is via two
Ethernet connections.
AEQ FORUM has an optional bi-directional MADI interface 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.
AEQ FORUM rear panel sections
The AEQ FORUM´s 14 available slots for input and output 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 area, and the name AES10 MADI for the MADI interface option. These references
are the same as those used in the configuration software. For more information see chapter 3.
DESCRIPTION OF INTERNAL MENU of this manual.
Numbering of audio I/O modules
A
B
C
15
14
4 3 2 1
MADI

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2.2.1. Power Supply
On the left side of rear FORUM (seen from behind) is the power supply module which
incorporates the DC / DC converters that provides the internal circuitry power of the console.
Externally you can see the 48 V DC Speak-On connector to which the external 48 V DC power
supply is connected. The power supply provided is switching and supports between 100 and
230 VAC +/-10% @ 48-52Hz, delivering 160W-3, 34A @ 48 VDC
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 with enough free space in
the rack frame.
Redundant power supply for AEQ FORUM
2.2.2. Common System 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, e.g. Fader-start or
SOLO functions, talk-back microphone ...
Common inputs and outputs AEQ FORUM section
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AEQ FORUM - 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.
Location of GPIO´s resources
2.2.2.1.1. Opto-coupled GPI
The AEQ FORUM includes 8 electronic interfaces GPI of opto-coupled type through the two
female DB9 connectors in the “GP INPUTS” section. The connectors are numbered from 1 to 4
and 5 to 8.
Specifications:
•Opto-coupler protected inputs (TLP127).
•Maximum Input Current: 50mA.
•Applicable voltage: from 5V to 24V.
Associated electronics general purpose input 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 metres of cable open-end termination
for GPI. More information in section 2.2.4 of this manual.
Opto-
coupled General
Purpose Outputs – GPO's
Opto-coupled
General
Purpose Inputs
– GPI's
Relay contacts
General
Purpose
Outputs –
GPO's