AKG A16X12 User manual

AS16x12
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
and trouble shooting guide

INTRODUCTION
The AS16x12 is the most advanced automatic matrix mixer available today. Combining 16 automatic input channels, 12
output channels, and a full crosspoint matrix system into 2 rac spaces, the AS16x12 is a compact solution for a wide variety
of sound system applications. 15 nonvolatile preset memory positions mean complete flexibility and reconfigurability.
The 16 automatic inputs utilize the patented Proportional Gain plus Autos ew mixing algorithm* for seamless automatic
mixing performance. Input preamp gains include +50dB and +30dB for both dynamic and electret microphones, and 0dB
for line level inputs. Gain trim range on the inputs is +15dB to -63dB plus off.
The crosspoint matrix allows any input (or combination of inputs) to be routed to any output (or combination of outputs).
Available crosspoint gains include -15dB, -10dB, -5dB, 0dB, +3dB, +6dB, and off. In addition to the 16 inputs, matrix
sources include the audio from the LecNet Expansion connector as well as an internal noise source.
The 12 outputs are balanced line level. Outputs 9-12 each have a mic/line level switch to ma e those outputs compatible
with mic level devices li e some four channel tape recorders.
The AS16x12 features a wealth of programmable features. With 17 programmable inputs and 19 programmable outputs,
even the most sophisticated control schemes are straightforward. The programmable inputs can control input or output level
on any grouping of inputs or outputs, memory preset recall, matrix crosspoint switching, or various functions associated
with the built-in room combining capability. Programmable outputs can indicate either input channel activity or the current
state of a programmable input.
The AS16x12 has an RS-232 port for remote setup or control by a computer or other RS-232 compatible controller. More
than one AS16x12 may be coupled together for larger applications.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
AS16x12 CONTROL PANEL SOFTWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
FCC PART 15 NOTICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
SERIAL CABLE WIRING DIAGRAMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
SERIAL PORT COMMANDS AVAILABLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
SERVICE AND REPAIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
RETURNING UNITS FOR REPAIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bac cover
* U.S. Patents 5,402,500 and 5,414,776
2

GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
The AS16x12 uses a straightforward analog signal path to provide excellent audio performance. This is coupled with a
sophisticated microcontroller to implement the automatic mixing, matrix control, room combining, and programmable
input and output functions. The Adaptive Level Proportional automatic mixing algorithm is used by the AS16x12. This
algorithm uses the signal level pattern at the microphones to derive a pattern of channel gains. For instance, if only one
microphone channel is being spo en into, its level is dominant and that channel gets most of the system gain, while all other
channels are turned down. If more than one microphone is active, they share system gain according to their relative levels.
A “s ewing” function gives some advantage to microphones which are active over time, to minimize interruptions from
transient noise at other microphones. Since the gain of each channel is apportioned continuously based on its relative level,
no abrupt gain changes are made. This ma es the automatic action virtually inaudible.
Figure 1 shows the simplified bloc diagram of the AS16x12. The microphone preamp is a low-noise discrete design, which
is extensively RF protected. The preamp has three gain settings. The 0dB setting allows an input to accept line level signals,
while the +30dB and +50dB gain settings accommodate both low and high sensitivity microphones. Switchable 15V
Phantom power is provided for each channel.
Following the mic preamp, the audio
signal passes through a high quality
Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA).
This VCA, controlled by a signal from
the system D/A converter, is used to
implement both static gain control
(i.e. mic trim and remote input level)
and gain reduction for the automatic
mixing function. A Channel On LED
indicates which inputs are currently
active. A sweepable low-cut filter and
a shelving high frequency filter
provide tone control for each input.
The 16 inputs are routed through an
18 in / 12 out crosspoint matrix. The
matrix has multiple crosspoint gains
to accommodate the most com-plex
signal routing needs. Aside from the
16 inputs, the matrix also includes
two other inputs: a noise generator
and the input signal from the LecNet
Expansion In rear panel connector.
Signals from the Expansion In and
Expansion Out connectors allow easy
interface to AS8 mixers. In addition, a
Mix Minus signal is available which
allows easy interfacing to tele-
conferencing hybrids li e the TH3A.
An RS-232 port is available to allow
many of the functions of the
AS16x12 to be controlled either by a
computer or a dedicated contro l
system (such as the AMX®o r
Crestron™ systems).
3
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 1
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 2
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 3
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 4
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 5
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 6
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 7
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 8
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 9
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT10
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 11
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT12
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT13
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT14
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT15
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT16
> - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT17
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 1
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 2
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 3
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 4
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 5
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 6
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 7
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 8
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 9
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT10
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT 11
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT12
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT13
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT14
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT15
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT16
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT17
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT18
< - PROGRAMMABLE INPUT19
NOM IN 1
NOM IN 2
NOM IN 3
NOM IN 4
NOM IN 5
NOM IN 6
NOM IN 7
NOM IN 8
INPUT #1 (OF 16)
FROM INPUT 2
FROM INPUT 3
FROM INPUT 4
FROM INPUT 5
FROM INPUT 6
FROM INPUT 7
FROM INPUT 8
FROM INPUT 9
FROM INPUT 10
FROM INPUT 11
FROM INPUT 12
FROM INPUT 13
FROM INPUT 14
FROM INPUT 15
FROM INPUT 16
MIC IN +
MIC IN -
MIC GND PREAMP GAIN
0 dB (LINE)
+30 dB (MIC)
+50 dB (MIC)
MIC
PREAMP
CHANNEL ON
AUDIO
VCA VARIABLE LOW CUT
HIGH CUT/BOOST
+15V
FROM D/A
CONVERTER
SPEECH
FILTER LOG CONVERTER TO AVD
➔CONVERTER
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
SWITCH
ARRAY
SERIAL BUS
MAIN IN
MIX MINUS OUT
AUTO MIX
LOG IN
SERIAL BUS
MAINOUT
MIX MINUS IN
AUTO MAX
LOG OUT
TX
RX
uC
68HC12
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
RESISTOR
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
RESISTOR
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
ATTENUATORS
1 OF 16
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
RESISTOR
A/C
CONVERTER
D/A
CONVERTER
D/A
CONVERTER
NOM TOTAL 1
NOM TOTAL 2
NOM TOTAL 3
NOM TOTAL 4
NOM TOTAL 5
NOM TOTAL 6
NOM TOTAL 7
NOM TOTAL 8
NOM TOTAL 1
NOM TOTAL 2
NOM TOTAL 3
NOM TOTAL 4
NOM TOTAL 5
NOM TOTAL 6
NOM TOTAL 7
NOM TOTAL 8
NOM OUT 1
NOM OUT 2
NOM OUT 3
NOM OUT 4
NOM OUT 5
NOM OUT 6
NOM OUT 7
NOM OUT 8
NOISE
SOURCE Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
Σ
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
10 dB
MIC/LINE
SWITCH
MIC/LINE
SWITCH
MIC/LINE
SWITCH
MIC/LINE
SWITCH
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 9
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 10
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 11
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 12
EXPANSION IN
(MINI DIN JACK)
EXPANSION OUT
(MINI DIN JACK)
LECNET PORT
(RS-232)
AUDIO EXP IN
AUDIO EXP OUT
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 1
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 2
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 3
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 4
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 5
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 6
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 7
BALANCED
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 8
AS16x12 BLOCK DIAGRAM

Pot Connection for Analog Control of Gain Contact Closure as Programmable Input DC Voltage source as Programmable Input
INSTALLATION
Because it is so highly integrated, the AS16x12 is straightforward to install. The following sections explain the installation
and wiring, as well as the software setup of the AS16x12.
AS16X12 AUDIO INPUTS
Each of the 16 AS16x12 inputs is balanced, and provides 15V
phantom power (through 2K ohm feed resistors to the “+” and
“-” input connections). Phantom power is switchable on a per-
channel basis. The drawing to the right shows two examples
of line level interface with the AS16x12; one, an unbalanced
line level source and the other, a balanced line level source.
AS16X12 AUDIO OUTPUTS
Each of the 12 AS16x12 outputs is balanced, and outputs 9 - 12 may be set for line or microphone level output. To use an
output in the unbalanced line level mode, ta e the signal from the “+” output connection and the output ground. Leave
the “-” output floating. To use outputs 9 - 12 in the unbalanced microphone level mode, ta e the signal from the “+” output
connection and the output ground. In this case, you should connect the “-” output to ground. Be sure that the MIC/LINE
switch is in the MIC (down) position for the desired output.
AS16X12 PROGRAMMABLE INPUTS
The AS16x12 has 17 programmable inputs which can control a variety of AS16x12 parameters. Each input can respond to
either a contact closure or a continuous voltage. The diagram to the right shows common connections to the programmable
input pins.
Each programmable input is internally pulled up through a 100K resistor to +5V, so no external pull up resistors are
necessary. When using a continuous voltage with one of the programmable inputs, the Function of the programmable input
must be set to either Analog In Control or Analog Out Control. See the Programmable Input tab in the AS16x12 Control
Panel software for setting all programmable input parameters.
AS16X12 PROGRAMMABLE OUTPUTS
The AS16x12 has 19 programmable
outputs which can indicate either
channel activity or the current state
of a programmable input. Each
programmable output is the electrical
equivalent of a contact closure to
g round. When a pro g r a m m a b l e
output is “active”, it conducts
c u rrent to ground. When the
programmable output is “inactive”,
no current flows to ground. The
maximum usable voltage for the
program-mable outputs is 40V, and
they will safely conduct up to
100mADC continuous. The diagram
on the right shows some typical uses
for the programmable outputs.
Unbalanced Line Level Source Balanced Line Level Source
4
LED is on hen the programmable output is active LED is off hen the programmable output is active

It is permissible to run LEDs from the +5VDC pins on the programmable input connector, as long as the total LED current
for all LEDS on does not exceed 100mA. Similarly, 5V relay coils may also be run from the +5VDC pins on the
programmable input connector, as long as the total coil current for all relays on does not exceed 100mA. Note that the
diagram shows an external DC source powering the relay coil. This will be necessary if coil voltages above 5V are needed.
AUDIO EXPANSION IN/OUT
When multiple AS16x12s are used in an application, their Audio Expansion ports must be interconnected using the Audio
Expansion In/Out connectors on the rear panel of the AS16x12. These two 30 pin headers are just to the right of the LecNet
(RS232) jac on the rear panel. A 3" 30 conductor ribbon cable is supplied with each AS16x12 for this purpose. When
installing the AS16x12s in a rac , the Master AS16x12 should be mounted in the top of the rac , with Slave AS16x12s
mounted below the Master AS16x12. The ribbon connector then connects the Audio Expansion In connector of the Master
AS16x12 to the Audio Expansion Out connector of the first Slave AS16x12. If there are more than one Slave AS16x12s,
the Audio Expansion In connector of the first Slave AS16x12 is connected to the Audio Expansion Out connector of the
second Slave AS16x12, and so on for as many Slave AS16x12s as exist in the system.
5
AS16x12 Rear Panel
TH3A Rear Panel
CONNECTING MULTIPLE AS16X12S TOGETHER CONNECTING THE AS16X12 TO THE TH3A
To additional AM16x12s

6
LECNET EXPANSION IN/OUT
When other LecNet devices are used in conjunction with the AS16x12s, the LecNet Expansion ports of these devices must
also be interconnected. Refer to the diagrams above for proper interconnections. The LecNet Expansion In and Out pinouts
are shown below.
Pin Expansion In Function Expansion Out Function
1 Main In Main Out
2 Mix Minus Out Mix Minus In
3 N/C N/C
4 N/C N/C
5 RS-232 RX RS-232 RX
6 RS-232 TX RS-232 TX
7 Ground Ground
8 N/C N/C
CONNECTING THE AS16X12 TO THE AS8 CONNECTING THE AS16X12 TO THE TH3A
AND A VIDEO RECORDER

7
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION
CHANNEL ACTIVITY LEDS - Indicates channel activity. The LEDs light when the attenuation applied by the automatic
mixing algorithm is less than or equal to 6dB. The indication of channel activity is responsive to the Input Qualification and
Output Hold time parameters, which may be set in the Miscellaneous tab of the AS16x12 control panel.
RESET DEFAULTS utton - This button will reset the unit to factory defaults when held down while the power switch
is turned on.
AS16X12 FRONT PANEL

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION
MIC/LINE INPUTS 1-16 - Accepts balanced or unbalanced signal. Fully balanced differential input, RF filtered.
GAIN SELECTION SWITCHES 1-16 - Allows input channel gain to be set. 0dB gain, for line level sources, is set when
both switches of the pair are in the up position. 30dB gain, typically for high output (electret) microphones, is set when the
left switch is in the up position and the right switch is in the down position. 50dB gain, used for low output (dynamic)
microphones, is set when both switches are in the down position.
LINE OUTPUTS 1-12 - Provide balanced system outputs. The Line Outputs may also be used in an unbalanced mode by
connecting the “+” terminal of the Line Output to the signal lead of the unbalanced device, and the ground terminal of the
Line Output to the ground of the unbalanced device. See “AS16x12 Audio Outputs” on page 4 for more information on
connecting the outputs in balanced and unbalanced mode.
MIC/LINE SWITCHES 9-12 - Introduces 40dB of attenuation into the associated line outputs 9-12. This yields the
appropriate signal levels to interface with mic level devices.
PROGRAMMABLE INPUTS - Allows remote control of a number of AS16x12 functions.
Each of the 17 programmable inputs can utilize either continuous DC voltages (0VDC-
5VDC) or contact closures, depending on the particular function chosen. For continuous
voltages, either a 10K ohm linear pot or an adjustable DC control voltage may be used. The
volume control action is internally scaled in software, giving an “audio-taper” characteristic
to a linear pot. When using a DC control voltage, the control constant is 0.167V/dB (or
6dB/V) from 0V to 5V. At 0V, the channel is turned completely off. The control voltage
should not exceed 5V.
PROGRAMMABLE OUTPUTS - Allows indication of either channel activity or
p rogrammable input states. Each of the 19 programmable inputs is the electronic equivalent
of a contact closure. The logic output will sin up to 100mA at voltages up to 40VDC,
h o w e v e r, the total current draw of all logic outputs should not exceed 100mA if the intern a l
+5V supply is used.
AUDIO EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows multiple AS16x12s to be lin ed together when more than 16 inputs are needed.
In multiple AS16x12 setups, one AS16x12 is set to be the Master, and all others are set to be Slaves. The Audio Expansion
In of the Master AS16x12 is connected to the Audio Expansion Out of the first Slave AS16x12, using the supplied 30 pin
ribbon cable. The Audio Expansion In of the first Slave AS16x12 is connected to the Audio Expansion Out of the next Slave
AS16x12, and so on.
RS-232 SERIAL PORT - Provides access to and control of some of the operational features of the AS16x12. The port is
compatible with the serial port of a PC, or other controllers with RS-232 type serial ports. For hardware interconnection
and software details, see Appendix 1, “Serial Port Hardware and Software”.
EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows other LecNet devices to be connected to the AS16x12. Also used when multiple
AS16x12s are connected together to bus the RS-232 serial connection between AS16x12s.
MASTER/SLAVE SWITCH - Sets the AS16x12 for use as a Master device or a Slave device. AS16x12s used singly should
be set for Master mode operation.
PWR IN - Connects to the PS60 power supply to provide power for the AS16x12.
PHANTOM POWER SWITCHES - Allow +15V phantom power to be applied or not on a per-channel basis.
AS16X12 REAR PANEL
9

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Since most of the parameters used to set up the AS16x12 are adjusted using the AS16x12 Software Control Panel, the
operating instructions include instructions for the use of the software. It is recommended that you have the software
running, either live or in the demo mode, as you read through this section.
Power Up
When the AS16x12 is powered on, it automatically loads the active setup from Preset 1. Therefore, you should always store
the desired power--up setting for the AS16x12 in Preset 1.
Master/Slave Switch
The Master/Slave switch should be set to the Master position if only one AS16x12 is being used. When multiple AS16x12s
are used in a system, only one is set to Master and the rest are set to Slave. See also the wiring descriptions of the Audio
Expansion In/Out and Expansion In/Out connectors in the Installation section.
Input Preamp Gain
Input preamp gain is set using the dip switches just to the left of each 5 pin input connector. Dip switch settings for 0dB,
+30dB, and +50dB input gain are shown on the rear panel of the AS16x12. Generally, the +50dB position is used for all
dynamic microphones and electret microphones where the wor ing distance from the microphone will be greater than
about 18 inches. The +30dB position is useful for electret microphones with wor ing distances less than 18 inches and most
wireless microphones. The 0dB setting is for line level sources. Remember to switch phantom power on for electret
microphones and off for dynamic mics or line level sources.
Output Mic/Line Switch (Outputs 9 - 12)
Outputs 9 through 12 may be either Mic or Line level outputs. The dip switch between the output connectors for outputs
9/10 and 11/12 controls the output level. There is approximately 40dB of attenuation introduced in the Mic position
relative to the Line position.
Using the AS16x12 Software Control Panel
The AS16x12 software control panel may be used in one of two ways. When launched from the LecNet Master Pro
application, you can control all the parameters of the AS16x12 in real time. (Your PC must be connected to the AS16x12
using the supplied LecNet serial cable in order for this to happen.) Alternatively, you can launch the AS16x12 control panel
directly and it will automatically come up in the demo mode. The demo mode is useful for doing system setup (and saving
the setups to a dis file) without the need to be connected to an AS16x12.
System setup follows the order of the tabs on the control panel. Start at the left tab and wor your way to the right. The
only exception to this is when you are using room combining. In this case, after setting up the input gain and input tone
controls, go directly to the room combining tab. Please refer to the AS16x12 Control Panel Software section of this manual
for a complete description of each control panel tab.
The diagram below represents the signal flow of one input to one output through one matrix crosspoint. Illustrated are all
the gain control points in the signal path.
To adjust this parameter: Use this control:
Mic Preamp Gain Rear panel dip switches
Input Gain Input gain tab on AS16x12 control panel software
Rear Panel (Input) Gain Programmable inputs on AS16x12 rear panel
Output Gain Output gain tab on AS16x12 control panel software
Rear Panel (Output) Gain Programmable outputs on AS16x12 rear panel
9

Input Gain Ta
Each input channel has two gain control points, in addition to the rear panel preamp gain switches. The input control point
labeled “Input Trim” is adjusted using the Input Gain tab on the AS16x12 control panel. This control is used to adjust the
sensitivity of each microphone or line level input to the desired gain. The gain adjustment range is +15dB to -63dB plus off.
You may want to increase the mic preamp gain if you find that your input gain settings are routinely above +10dB.
The input control point labeled “Rear Panel” represents the gain adjustments which can be made from the rear panel
programmable inputs. The rear panel gain control is attenuation only, starting at a maximum gain of 0dB. The rear panel
input gain controls may be limited in their adjustment range using the Miscellaneous Settings tab on the AM16/ 12 control
panel. In addition, you may set a rear panel preset gain value that will be applied to any outputs which are being controlled
by a programmable input. The preset gain is applied at power up or when sub-rooms are combined or uncombined (using
the room combining capabilities of the AS16x12). Note that if there are no limits applied to the rear panel gain range, the
input channel may be turned completely off. The current gain value of the rear panel controls is displayed on the
Miscellaneous Settings tab.
Output Gain Ta
The output gain structure is identical to the input gain structure, with the exception that the Output Gain range is +10dB
to -68dB plus off. The output gain is adjusted using the Output Gain tab.
Matrix Setup Ta
Matrix crosspoint gain can be set using the Matrix tab. Input-to-output gains are set based on the re q u i rements of the
application. For example, you can set up a “mix-minus” sound re i n f o rcement system when you are using multiple micro p h o n e s
and overhead distributed spea ers. Each spea er (or small group of spea ers) would be fed from its own mix of micro p h o n e s .
A given spea er’s mix would consist of all microphones not physically close to the spea er, while excluding those micro p h o n e s
which are close to the spea er. The possibility of feedbac is greatly reduced when this approach is repeated with all system
spea ers. A multichannel amplifier may be used to power each spea er individually.
Programma le Inputs Ta
Programmable inputs may be set up using the Programmable Inputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applications for each
of the programmable input functions available:
Analog In Control: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage source.
Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for mute.
Increase In 1dB, Decrease In 1dB: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch closures.
Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is pushed and held,
it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or low limit.
Analog Out Control: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage source.
Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for mute.
Increase Out 1dB, Decrease Out 1dB: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch
closures. Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is pushed
and held, it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or low limit.
Memory Preset: Used to recall one of the 15 AS16x12 preset memories with a momentary switch closure. Remember to
save the same memory preset associations in all the AS16x12 memory preset positions you’ll be using. You can also assign
a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs you’re using for memory preset
recall to drive LEDs for visual feedbac of the current memory preset.
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Used to temporarily apply the signal from any one of the 16 inputs to any combination of outputs
using a momentary switch closure to toggle the state of the affected crosspoints. Useful for zone paging applications, etc.
10

Mute In: Used to mute one or more inputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between mute and
unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs
you’re using for input muting to drive LEDs for visual feedbac of the mute/unmute state of the inputs.
Mute Out: Used to mute one or more outputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between mute
and unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs
you’re using for output muting to drive LEDs for visual feedbac of the mute/unmute state of the outputs.
Toggle Room Boundary: Used when room combining is active to connect the boundaries (using a momentary switch
closure) of two rooms and combine their sound systems. This option is not available in the Programmable Inputs tab, but
is set automatically by the AS16x12 control panel when the room combining function is active.
Not Used: Unassigns a programmable input from any system function.
PROGRAMMABLE OUTPUTS TAB
Programmable outputs may be set up using the Programmable Outputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applications for
the two programmable output functions available:
Input Channel Activity: Used to indicate when one or more channels are active. This function may be used for video-
follow-audio applications, where each programmable output indicates activity on one or more channels. The programmable
outputs are connected to logic inputs on a video switcher to switch between cameras.
Programma le Input State: Used to provide user feedbac for certain programmable input functions. A programmable
output whose function is Programmable Input State will be active (i.e. conducting to ground) or inactive (i.e. open) as
follows depending on the function of the programmable input with which it is associated:
Function State when LED On State when LED Off
Analog In Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Analog Out Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Memory Preset: Associated memory is active Associated memory is not active
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Input-to-output(s) connection made Input - output(s) connection not made
Mute In: Associated input(s) not muted Associated input(s) muted
Mute Out: Associated output(s) not muted Associated output(s) muted
Room Com ining Ta
If your application requires room combining, the Room Combining tab description in the AS16x12 Control Panel Software
section provides full setup information.
Miscellaneous Settings Ta
Adjustments or limitations to the front and rear panel gain controls, setup of the input qualification time and output hold
time, or configuration of the Expansion port mix-minus signal may be accomplished in the Miscellaneous Settings tab. When
multiple AS16x12s are used in a system, set the Internal NOM bus lin to Expansion In/Out option on all slave AS16x12s
to No Lin .
When all tabs are set appropriately for the application, the system is ready to use.
11

AS16X12 CONTROL PANEL SOFTWARE
The following section is a description of the File menu and each of the tabs in the AS16x12 Control Panel application.
FILE MENU OPTIONS
Copy Preset(s) to AS16x12 from Disk File... - Allows any preset stored to a dis file (.amd file extension) to be loaded
to the corresponding AS16x12 memory preset. The Preset 1 through Preset 15 selections copy a single preset, while the All
Presets selection copies all 15 presets to the AS16x12. After a preset is loaded to the AS16x12, it will be transferred to the
active AS16x12 setup. If all 15 presets are loaded, preset 1 will be made the active preset. This option is helpful in restoring
AS16x12 settings if they have been accidentally corrupted. Note that this option will overwrite any data stored in the
AS16x12’s preset memory with the new preset data from dis .
Save Preset(s) from AS16x12 to Disk File... - Allows any preset currently stored in the AS16x12’s preset memory to
be saved to a dis file. The Preset 1 through Preset 15 selections copy a single preset, while the All Presets selection copies
all 15 AS16x12 presets to the selected dis file. This option is helpful in archiving the final settings for the AS16x12 in a
particular installation.
Load Active Setup from Disk File... - Allows the active AS16x12 setup to be loaded from a dis file. Loading the active
AS16x12 setup from a dis file will not overwrite any AS16x12 preset memory data. This option is helpful when a basic
AS16x12 setup has been generated off-site and needs to be “twea ed” on-site.
Save Active Setup to Disk File... - Allows the active AS16x12 setup to be stored to a dis file. You select which preset
position in the dis file to which to store the active AS16x12 setup. This option has no effect on the AS16x12 preset
memories.
Select Active Setup from AS16x12 Preset... - Allows any of the AS16x12 preset memories to be recalled and made to
be the active AS16x12 setup. This option does not affect any of the preset memory data.
Save Active Setup to AS16x12 Preset... - Allows the active AS16x12 setup to be stored in one of the 15 preset memories
in the AS16x12. Note that this option will overwrite any preset memory data stored in the selected preset memory position.
Enter Input/Output Names... - Allows names to be assigned to the 16 inputs and the 12 outputs of the AS16x12. These
names may be up to 15 characters long and are stored in nonvolatile memory in the AS16x12. In addition, the names are
stored in any dis files generated with any of the save to dis options above. Inputs or outputs with no assigned names are
listed as “No Name”. To change a name, simply clic on the desired text box and enter the desired name. While you are
permitted to enter more than 15 characters in the text box, only the first 15 will be stored. To save the changes to the
AS16x12’s nonvolatile memory, clic the Apply button. If you clic the Cancel button, the changes you have made will not
be applied. The shortcut ey for this option is Ctrl+E.
Enter Disk File Notes... - Allows you to add any notes that
you want to be included in a file saved to dis . These notes
could be installation instructions, operational instructions, or
any other information which might be helpful to associate
with a saved file. You’ll see the screen shown at the right
when you choose this option:
After you enter the desired text into the text box, choose OK
to save the changes you’ve made. Cancel will ignore the
changes you’ve made since the last time you clic ed OK. Note
that to save your changes to a dis file, you must still either use
Save Preset(s) from AS16x12 to Dis File... or Save Active
Setup to Dis File... to store the notes in a dis file. The
shortcut ey for this option is Ctrl+D.
Print Setup... - Allows the active printer to be changed using
the standard Windows printer setup dialog. This will set the
printer which is used with the Print Tabs... menu selection.
The shortcut ey for this option is Ctrl+P.
Print Ta s... - Allows any or all of the AS16x12 control panel tabs to be printed for documentation purposes.
12

Update AS16x12 Firmware from Disk File - Allows newer firmware revisions to be loaded into the AS16x12. From
time to time, new features or bug fixes will be added to the AS16x12’s firmware. These changes will be distributed with
the LecNet installation dis s and available on the Lectrosonics Web site (www.lectrosonics.com). The firmware file will have
a “.s19” extension. When installing from the installation dis s, the firmware files will automatically be placed in the LecNet
directory (default: c:\lecnet). If new firmware is downloaded from the Web site, the file should be placed in the LecNet
directory.
Any time the AS16x12 Control Panel is run, it will chec for .s19 firmware files which are more recent than the firmware
revision in the AS16x12. You will be alerted that the AS16x12’s firmware can be updated, and you can select whether or
not to let the update proceed. If no firmware file is available in the LecNet directory, this option will be disabled. The
shortcut ey for this option is Ctrl+U.
Exit - Ends the application. The shortcut ey for this option is Ctrl+X.
Important note: If you ill be using the Room Combiner functions of the AS16x12, proceed to the instructions for the
Room Combining Tab on page 23.
INPUT GAIN TAB
The Input Gain tab allows the input gain,
Auto/Direct status, and the NOM bus
association to be set for each of the 16
input channels.
Gain - Allows the input gain level to be
trimmed between +15dB and -63dB, or
Off. The gain shown in the associated box
should be added to the preamp gain (set
by rear panel dip switches) to calculate
the total channel gain. For example, if the
rear panel dip switches for an input are
set such that the preamp gain is +30dB,
and the input gain box shows +5dB, the
total gain applied to that input channel
(excluding matrix crosspoint and output
gain) would be +35dB. The bac ground
color of the input gain box will change
from white to red if the input is muted by
actuation of the Mute Input function of a
programmable input. The input gain scroll
bar will also be disabled while the
channel is muted.
Short Cuts: A left mouse clic on the gain box will set the input gain to 0dB, while a right mouse clic will set the input
gain to Off.
Auto/Direct Input Status - Each input may be in either Auto or Direct mode. An input in the Auto mode responds to the
NOM bus to which it is assigned to determine its instantaneous gain. An input in the Direct mode is always on and never
has any gain reduction applied to it from the automatic mixing action. An input in the Direct mode will, however, contribute
to the NOM bus to which it is assigned. In most cases, inputs connected to microphones should be set to Auto mode. Direct
mode is useful for line level sources.
NOM Bus - Sets the NOM bus association for each input. The AS16x12 has 8 NOM busses, and any input may be assigned
to any NOM bus, or to “None”. All inputs assigned to the same NOM bus act li e a single automatic mixer, in that their
instantaneous gains are determined by the relative signal levels on all other inputs assigned to that NOM bus. By assigning
inputs to different NOM busses, more than one “virtual mixer” may be constructed. As a simple example, you might assign
inputs 1-8 to NOM bus 1 and inputs 9-16 to NOM bus 2. If inputs 1-8 were then sent to output 1 and inputs 9-16 were
sent to output 2 (using the Matrix tab), you would have two separate 8 input automatic mixers. With 8 NOM busses, up
13

to 8 separate mixers can be configured with the AS16x12. If an input is assigned to “None”, it will neither affect any other
channel’s automatic gain or be affected by another channel.
Short Cuts: A left mouse clic on the NOM box will associate the input with NOM bus 1, while a right mouse clic will
set the association to “None”.
On LED - Indicates that the attenuation applied to the input as a result of the automatic mixing action is less than 6dB. For
inputs in the Direct mode, or inputs whose NOM assignment is “None”, this LED is always lit. Level Meter - Indicates
the inputs level, ta ing into consideration the Input Gain, and the front and rear panel gain contributions.
INPUT TONE TAB
The Input Tone tab allows the low cut
frequency and the high frequency cut or
boost to be set for each of the 16 input
channels.
Low Cut - Sets the low cut corner
frequency for each input channel. The
low cut filter is a 6dB/octave (i.e. single
pole) filter. Frequency choices are 75Hz,
90Hz, 110Hz, 130Hz, 190Hz, 280Hz,
600Hz, and Flat.
Short Cut: A left clic on the low cut box
causes the frequency to be set to “Flat”.
Hi Cut/Boost - Sets the high frequency
cut or boost for each input channel. The
inflection point of the high frequency tone
control is approximately 1 Hz. Choices
for cut/boost are -8dB, -6dB, -3dB, Flat,
+3dB, +6dB, and +8dB.
Short Cut: A left clic on the hi cut/boost
box causes the cut/ boost value to be set
to “Flat”.
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MATRIX SETUP TAB
The Input/Output Matrix tab sets the
input to output assignments for the
AS16x12.
Input/Output Crosspoint -Allows the
input/output crosspoint gain to be set.
Each of the 12 rows of 18 crosspoint
boxes represent input connections which
may be set from inputs to outputs 1-12.
To set a crosspoint gain, simply clic on
the crosspoint box at
the intersection of the
d e s i red input and
d e s i red output. The
c rosspoint box will
turn yellow, and you’ll
see the following
selection box pop up:
At this point, the current crosspoint gain is highlighted in the selection box. Choose a new gain by clic ing on the desired
crosspoint gain value. If you decide not to change the crosspoint gain, you may press the Esc ey or clic on the crosspoint
box again to close the selection box without changing the crosspoint gain. The first 16 crosspoint boxes in each output row
are for the AS16x12 inputs. Two other signals are available to be included in the output mixes: Exp In and Noise.
Exp In is the signal from the 8 pin mini-DIN LecNet Expansion In connector on the rear panel of the AS16x12. This signal
would be used if another LecNet device, li e a TH3A Telephone Hybrid, were connected to the AS16x12 via the expansion
cable. In this case, the TH3A’s receive signal would be present at the Exp In connector. The crosspoint gains for Exp In to any
active outputs would be set to the desired gain so that the participants in the local room could hear the far-end part i c i p a n t .
Another application might be the addition of 8 more inputs using an AS8. In this case, the sum of all 8 AS8 channels would
appear at the Exp In connector. This signal could then be distributed as necessary to appropriate output mixes.
The AS16x12 includes an internal broadband noise generator which can be included into any of the output mixes. One
application for the noise generator is bench conferences in courtrooms. During a bench conference, noise is output over the
sound system in the jury box, the gallery, and any other place that shouldn’t hear the conversation at the bench.
Short Cuts: A right mouse clic on a crosspoint gain box will set the crosspoint gain to 0dB. A middle mouse clic (for those
with a three button mouse) will set the crosspoint gain to “Off”.
Refresh Matrix (Ref) Button - Updates the crosspoint matrix display to indicate the active AS16x12 setup. This is useful
when the room combining function is in use, or any other function which might change the matrix crosspoint setup.
Clear Matrix (Clr) Button - Clears all matrix crosspoints to the “Off” state.
15
-15dB
-10dB
-5dB
-0dB
+3dB
+6dB
Off

OUTPUT GAIN TAB
The Output Gain tab allows the output
gain levels to be set.
Gain, Outputs 1 - 12 - Allows the
output gain to be set between +10dB
and -68dB or “Off”. The bac ground
color of the output gain box will change
from white to red if the output is muted
by actuation of the Mute Output
function of a programmable input. The
output gain scroll bar will also be
disabled while the output is muted.
Short Cuts: A left mouse clic on the
gain box will set the output gain to 0dB,
while a right mouse clic will set the
output gain to Off.
Master Output Section - The Master
Output section provides a convenient
way to apply gain changes to more than
one output at a time. The six buttons
(Set to Off, Set to 0dB, Decrease by 1dB, Increase by 1dB, Decrease by 5dB, and Increase by 5dB) facilitate several common
gain manipulations. Their action is applied to any output whose chec box is chec ed. The Select All and Unselect All
buttons provide a quic way to apply gain changes to all channels simultaneously. Note that the Increase and Decrease
buttons are push-and-hold, and will increment or decrement the output gain for as long as they are held down.
PROGRAMMABLE INPUTS TAB
The AS16x12 has 17 pro g r a m m a b l e
inputs (available on the 25 pin D-Sub
connector on the rear panel) which
allow control of a wide variety of
AS16x12 functions. Only the parameters
in the “Applies To” section which are
associated with each specific
programmable input function will be
enabled as you select different functions.
All other parameters are disabled. This
eliminates invalid Function/Applies To
settings. Each of the available functions
is explained below.
Hint: If the function (or any associated
inputs, outputs, etc.) of a programmable
input is changed on the control panel,
the Apply button will be enabled. The
Apply button is located in the lower right
hand corner of the Programmable Input
tab. The Apply button must be clic ed
before any changes are actually applied to the active AS16x12 setup. Note that you should use the Select Programmable
Input buttons to select the programmable input you’d li e to configure before doing any configuration.
Select Programma le Input Buttons 1-17 - Allows selection of which programmable input to change. Note that the
frame caption “Programmable Input ...” (upper left in blue) will change to indicate the programmable input currently being
changed.
16

Push Input Button - Allows a contact closure to be simulated for the current programmable input. This is useful when
testing to see that the changes you’ve made to each programmable input indeed have the intended effect. Each clic on the
“Push Input...” button has the same effect as a momentary contact closure on the current programmable input. Note that
the caption on the Push Input button always reflects the current programmable input. The Push Input button will be
disabled for the Analog In Control, Analog Out Control and Not Used options.
Programma le Input Status “LED” - Shows the current state of a programmable input. The status indicator only has
meaning for the following programmable input functions:
Function State when LED On State when LED Off
Analog In Control Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Analog Out Control Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Memory Preset: Associated memory is active Associated memory is not active
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Input-to-output(s) connection made Input - output(s) connection not made
Mute In: Associated input(s) not muted Associated input(s) muted
Mute Out: Associated output(s) not muted Associated output(s) muted
Apply Button - Applies the current setting of “Function” and “Applies To” to the current programmable input. When the
Apply button is enabled, this indicates that the setting of “Function” and “Applies To” in the AS16x12 does not match the
setting of “Function” and “Applies To” shown on the control panel screen. Clic ing the Apply button will load the control
panel setting into the active AS16x12 setup. This does not store the changes to a memory preset! That must be done
explicitly from the File/Save Active to AS16x12 Preset... file menu option. If changes are made to a programmable input
but not applied (by clic ing on the Apply button), and another programmable input is selected (by clic ing another of the
Select Programmable Input buttons), all the changes to the first programmable input which were not applied will be lost.
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT FUNCTIONS:
Analog In Control - Allows one or more input gains to be controlled by an analog voltage on a programmable input pin.
Analog input gain control goes from a maximum of 0dB gain to a minimum of 30dB attenuation, plus “Off”. The gain
change resolution is 1dB. The Analog In Control mode is ideal for using a pot (or some other source of analog voltage) to
control input gain. The valid voltage range in the Analog In mode is 0VDC to 5VDC. 0VDC corresponds to “Off” (or Rear
Panel Minimum Input Gain, if it is programmed for less attenuation than “Off”), and +5VDC corresponds to 0dB. In
addition, a SPST toggle switch may be
used as a mute switch. Connect the two
switch contacts to the programmable
input pin and ground. The inputs will be
muted when the contacts are closed.
The screen shown to the right indicates
that the function of programmable input
1 is analog input control of inputs 1, 2,
3, 5, and 7. Notice how multiple inputs
may be controlled by a single
programmable input.
17

Increase In 1dB / Decrease In 1dB -
Allows one or more input gains to be
controlled by a contact closure on a
programmable input pin. Increase and
Decrease input gain control goes from a
maximum of 0dB gain to a minimum of
30dB attenuation, plus “Off”. The gain
change resolution is 1dB. In the case of
Increase In 1dB, each contact closure
will increment the input(s) gain by 1dB
until 0dB is reached. Decrease In 1dB
will decrement the input(s) gains by 1dB
until either “Off” or Rear Panel
Minimum Input Gain is reached. If the
contact closure is pushed and held, it
will continue to increment or decrement
until it is released or the gain reaches its
high or low limit. The screen shown to
the right indicates that the function of
programmable input 1 is Increase In 1dB
control of inputs 1, 2, 3 and 7.
Analog Out Control - Allows one or
more output gains to be controlled by an
analog voltage on a programmable input
pin. Analog output gain control goes
from a maximum of 0dB gain to a
minimum of 30dB attenuation, plus
“Off”. The gain change resolution is
1dB. The Analog Out mode is ideal for
using a pot (or some other source of
analog voltage) to control output gain.
The valid voltage range in the analog
output mode is 0VDC to 5VDC. 0VDC
c o rresponds to “Off” (or Rear Panel
Minimum Output Gain, if it is
programmed for less attenuation than
“Off”), and +5VDC corresponds to 0dB.
In addition, a SPST toggle switch may be
used as a mute switch. Connect the two
switch contacts to the programmable
input pin and ground. The outputs will
be muted when the contacts are closed.
The screen shown to the right indicates
that the function of programmable input
1 is analog output control of all outputs
simultaneously.
18

Increase Out 1dB / Decrease Out
1dB - Allows one or more output gains
to be controlled by a contact closure
on a programmable input pin. Increase
and Decrease output gain control goes
from a maximum of 0dB gain to a
minimum of 30dB attenuation, plus
“Off”. The gain change resolution is
1dB. In the case of Increase Out 1dB,
each contact closure will increment
the output(s) gains by 1dB until 0dB is
reached. D e c rease Out 1dB w i l l
decrement the output(s) gains by 1dB
until either “Off” or Rear Panel
Minimum Output Gain is reached. If
the contact closure is pushed and held,
it will continue to increment or
decrement until it is released or the
gain reaches its high or low limit. The
screen shown to the right indicates
that the function of pro g r a m m a b l e
input 1 is Increase Out 1dB control of
all outputs.
Memory Preset - Allows one of the
15 AS16x12 memory presets to be
recalled by a m o m e n t a ry c o n t a c t
closure on a programmable input pin.
If you are using two or more
p rogrammable inputs for memory
recall, you will want to set up and
apply all pro g r a m m a b l e
input/memory preset associations and
download the active setup to all preset
memories you’ll be using. This
guarantees that the desire d
programmable input/memory preset
associations are stored in all memories
of interest. The screen to the right
indicates that the function of
p rogrammable input 1 is to re c a l l
AS16x12 Memory Preset 1.
19

Toggle Crosspoint Gain - Allows for a
temporary matrix connection to be made
between one input and any combination
of outputs, at any one of the available
c rosspoint matrix gains. The first
m o m e n t a ry contact closure on the
programmable input pin will ma e the
specified input-to-output(s) connection,
and the next momentary contact closure
will remove the connection. No matrix
crosspoints other than the ones specified
are changed. This toggling of input-to-
output(s) connections is ideal for
applications such as single or multi zone
paging, or other situations where a
temporary matrix connec-tion is needed
rather than a full memory preset recall.
The screen to the right shows input 1
being routed to outputs 1, 2, 3, and 4
with a crosspoint gain of 0dB. This could
be a multi-zone page setup using input 1
as the paging microphone input.
Toggle Room Boundary - Allows room
boundaries (in room combining
applications) to be combined. This option
is not changeable from the
Programmable Inputs tab, but is shown
for reference in the tab. You’ll notice that
the frame caption changes to include the
phrase “(used for room combining)” as a
reminder that this programmable input
cannot be changed in this tab. The toggle
room boundary function is set in the
Room Combining tab. Note that the
specific room boundary associated with
the programmable input is also shown on
the Room Combining tab. The screen to
the right shows a programmable input
used to toggle a room boundary.
20