ALLEN & HEATH T SERIES AP6526 User manual

System Reference Guide
January 2008
Publication AP6526
iLive and T Series
System Reference Guide
March 2009
Firmware Version 1.4
Publication AP6526 issue 3

2 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
ALLEN&HEATH
The iLive range of products complies with the European
Electromagnetic Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC &
92/31/EEC and the European Low Voltage Directives
73/23/EEC & 93/68/EEC.
Any changes or modifications to the equipment not approved by Allen
& Heath could void the compliance of the product and therefore the
users authority to operate it.
iLive System Reference Guide AP6526 Issue 3
Copyright © 2009 Allen & Heath. All rights reserved
Manufactured in the United Kingdom by Allen & Heath Limited
Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK
http://www.allen-heath.com
Limited Two Year Warranty
This product has been manufactured in the UK by ALLEN & HEATH and is
warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a period of two
years from the date of purchase by the original owner.
To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has
been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating.
In the event of a failure, notify and return the defective unit to ALLEN & HEATH or
its authorised agent as soon as possible for repair under warranty subject to the
following conditions:
Conditions Of Warranty
1. The equipment has been installed and operated in accordance with the
instructions in the equipment User Guides
2. The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental,
neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service
Manual, or approved by ALLEN & HEATH.
3. This warranty does not cover fader wear and tear.
4. Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by
ALLEN & HEATH or its authorised agent.
5. The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to ALLEN & HEATH or its
authorised agent with proof of purchase.
6. Units returned should be packed to avoid transit damage.
In certain territories the terms may vary. Check with your ALLEN & HEATH agent
for any additional warranty, which may apply.

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 3
Important Safety Instructions
WARNINGS - Read the following before proceeding :
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE – NE PAS
OUVRIR
Read instructions:Retain these safety and operating instructions for future reference.
Adhere to all warnings printed here and on the equipment. Follow the
operating instructions printed in this User Guide.
Do not remove covers:Operate the equipment with its covers correctly fitted. Refer any
service work on the equipment to competent technical personnel only.
Power sources:Connect the equipment to a mains power supply only of the type
described in this User Guide and marked on the rear panel. Use only
the power cord with sealed mains plug appropriate for your local
mains supply as provided with the equipment. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet consult your service agent for assistance.
Power cord routing: Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on, stretched
or pinched by items placed upon or against it.
Grounding:Do not defeat the grounding and polarisation means of the power
cord plug. Do not remove or tamper with the ground connection in
the power cord.
Water and moisture:To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose the
equipment to rain or moisture or use it in damp or wet conditions. Do
not place containers of liquid on it which might spill into any openings.
Ventilation:Do not obstruct the ventilation slots or position the equipment where
the air flow required for ventilation is impeded. If the equipment is to
be operated in a flightcase ensure that it is constructed to allow
adequate ventilation.
Heat and vibration:Do not locate the equipment in a place subject to excessive heat or
direct sunlight as this could be a fire hazard. Locate the equipment
away from any devices which produce heat or cause excessive
vibration.
Servicing:Switch off the equipment and unplug the power cord immediately if it
is exposed to moisture, spilled liquid, objects fallen into the openings,
the power cord or plug become damaged, during lightening storms,
or if smoke, odour or noise is noticed. Refer servicing to qualified
technical personnel only.
Installation:Install the equipment in accordance with the instructions printed in this
User Guide. Use the equipment connections for their intended
purpose only.
CAUTION
WARNING: This equipment must be earthed.

4 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
Important Mains plug wiring instructions.
The equipment is supplied with a moulded mains plug fitted to the AC
mains power lead. Follow the instructions below if the mains plug has
to be replaced.
The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the
following code:
WIRE COLOUR
TERMINAL
European USA/Canada
L LIVE BROWN BLACK
N NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
E EARTH GND GREEN & YELLOW GREEN
The wire which is coloured Green and Yellow must be connected to
the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or with the
Earth symbol. This appliance must be earthed.
The wire which is coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal in
the plug which is marked with the letter N.
The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal
in the plug which is marked with the letter L.
Ensure that these colour codes are followed carefully in the event of
the plug being changed.
Precautions
Damage : To prevent damage to the equipment cosmetics, avoid placing heavy
objects on the unit, scratching the surface with sharp objects, or
subjecting the unit to rough handling and vibration.
Environment : Protect from excessive dirt, dust, heat and vibration when operating
and storing. Avoid tobacco ash, smoke, drinks spillage, and exposure
to dust, rain and moisture. If the equipment becomes wet, switch off
and remove power immediately. Allow to dry out thoroughly before
using again.
Cleaning : Avoid the use of chemicals, abrasives or solvents. The equipment is
best cleaned with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. If the ventilation
grilles become blocked with dust use a vacuum cleaner to suck the
dirt out. Do not remove the cover to clean the unit.
Transporting : The equipment should be transported in the original packing or
purpose built flightcase to protect it from damage during transit.
Cables: Plan the location of the equipment so that the connecting cables are
not fully extended. Full extension of the cables can stress the
equipment and cables and may result in undesired performance.
Ensure that the cables are located such that they cannot be stood on
or tripped over.
Modules: Do not remove the modules from the equipment while power is
applied.

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 5
This is the iLive System Reference Guide relating to Version 1.4 Firmware. The system firmware is
updated on a regular basis as new features and improvements are added. Some of the screen shots and
details in this guide may differ from those in the current release of firmware. Please refer to the Release
Notes that come with each version of firmware for details of new features.
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................. 7
iLive System components .......................................................................... 8
iDR10 MixRack............................................................................................ 9
iLive Surface ............................................................................................. 10
T Series System components .................................................................. 11
T Series Control layout ............................................................................. 12
Connecting the iLive MixRack and Surface ............................................. 13
Connecting the T Series MixRack and Surface ...................................... 15
Booting up the system .............................................................................. 16
The Status screen...................................................................................... 17
Surface basics – The TouchScreen .......................................................... 19
Surface basics – Fader control strip ......................................................... 22
Surface basics – the SEL key ................................................................... 25
Surface basics – the MIX key.................................................................... 30
Channel and Mix processing .................................................................... 33
Introducing the FX ..................................................................................... 39
Patching the Outputs ................................................................................ 46
Using DCA groups .................................................................................... 48
Creating Mute Groups............................................................................... 48
Channel Ganging ...................................................................................... 49
COPY / PASTE / RESET edit keys ............................................................ 50
The METERS screen ................................................................................. 52
The RTA ..................................................................................................... 52
PAFL monitor system ................................................................................ 53
Solo-in-Place ............................................................................................. 54
Engineer’s Wedge/IEM monitoring........................................................... 57
Talkback system........................................................................................ 58
Soft Keys, PL-Anet, MIDI ........................................................................... 60
MIXRACK config and setup....................................................................... 61
Main mix types........................................................................................... 64
Direct output setup.................................................................................... 65
Audio sync / Network setup ...................................................................... 65
Signal generator ........................................................................................ 67
SURFACE setup ........................................................................................ 68
Assigning Surface strips............................................................................ 69

6 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
Assigning SoftKeys ................................................................................... 70
Assigning PL devices ................................................................................ 71
The Surface ALT VIEW key ....................................................................... 72
Setting Surface preferences...................................................................... 73
NAME and COLOUR ................................................................................. 74
User Profiles .............................................................................................. 75
Library memories....................................................................................... 76
Scene memories ....................................................................................... 77
Show memories......................................................................................... 78
Using Template Shows ............................................................................. 82
USB Scene transfer ................................................................................... 83
Working with USB data ............................................................................. 84
The UTILITY screen ................................................................................... 85
Lock the Surface ....................................................................................... 85
Change User ............................................................................................. 85
Help manual .............................................................................................. 85
Power down the TouchScreen.................................................................. 85
Configuration page.................................................................................... 86
Diagnostics page....................................................................................... 86
Firmware versions and update.................................................................. 87
Network setup and connections ............................................................... 88
iLive module options – Analogue inputs and outputs .............................. 89
iLive module options – Digital inputs and outputs.................................... 90
iLive module options – Digital multi-output............................................... 91
iLive module options – System ................................................................. 92
MIDI specification ...................................................................................... 94
Technical specification.............................................................................. 95
Weights and dimensions........................................................................... 98
System block diagrams........................................................................... 101
EtherSound system diagram .................................................................. 103
Application diagrams .............................................................................. 104

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 7
Welcome
Thank you for investing in the Allen & Heath iLive digital mixing system. To get the most from your iLive
please read the Getting Started Guide that comes with your system and refer to this reference guide for
further information.
The Allen & Heath web site provides the latest version of firmware and additional downloadable
information on iLive. To benefit from the latest features and improvements please check that you are
running up to date firmware. Full instructions on downloading and installing the firmware is available on
our web site www.allen-heath.com. If you cannot locate the information you are looking for in the
documentation please contact your local Allen & Heath agent.
Note: iLive is an evolving system. Through firmware upgrades new features and capability
compatible with your existing hardware are scheduled to be added over time.
Read the release notes that come with each new version of firmware. They provide a description and
information relating to new features, details of improvements, and notes about known issues.
Introduction to iLive
iLive and the iLive-T Series provide a modular system for live sound mixing. Allowing distributed control
and audio over CAT5 cable, iLive is well suited to demanding live sound applications such as
FOH/Monitor mixing, live recording and multi-function installed venue sound. It is uniquely flexible with
choice of components, a fully configurable bus architecture and assignable user interface for easy
configuration to match each application.
The standard iLive offers a fully modular construction and feature set suitable for the top end application,
and is available with a touring grade flightcase. The T Series offers an affordable fixed format solution for
the more budget conscious application. Both feature separate MixRack and control Surface with CAT5
digital link. The hardware, firmware and user data is compatible between the two systems.
The MixRack is the heart of the system with choice of modular or fixed I/O, 64 channel x 32 bus DSP
processing and network interfacing in a 19” rack frame. It has plenty of DSP power. All the processing is
available all the time including graphic EQ on all mix outputs, 3 dynamics processors per channel and 8
fully assignable FX racks. Four versions of MixRack are available including a compact MiniRack without
audio I/O for digital split systems.
The Surface is a ‘controller’ that allows remote control of the MixRack and other components in the
system. It has audio I/O built in for local audio signals to connect with the MixRack via CAT5 cable using
EtherSound or the Allen & Heath ACE link. The purpose designed user interface gives you instant access
to all your live mixing functions with plenty of faders, single button access analogue style channel
processing control as well as an intuitive touch screen. Between them iLive and the T Series provide no
fewer than 6 different versions of Surface giving you a choice of number of faders and price point to
match your application.
iLive offers a host of control possibilities including the Surface, networked or wireless laptops or touch
tablets running iLive Editor software, PL Series remote controllers, MIDI and more. You can even leave
your Surface at home and run the show with just a laptop connected to the MixRack. iLive marries a new
generation of digital mixing with the speed of operation and sound quality expected of the best analogue
consoles.

8 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
iLive System components
iDR10 MixRack The MixRack is the heart of
the digital audio processing system. It houses the
DSP mix engine together with control and audio
networking interfaces. The 64 input x 32 bus
architecture is fully configurable for mono/stereo
and type of mix. It is known as the iDR10 because it
has 10 card slots for fitting any combination of input
and output modules.
iDR0 MiniRack The MiniRack is similar to the
iDR10 MixRack except it does not have any card
slots for input or output modules. Instead it gets its
audio via the EtherSound network. It can be used
as the slave mix engine in an FOH/Monitor system
with digital mic split, or as a compact mixer with an
iLive Surface using the audio I/O in the back of the
Surface.
iLive Surface There are 4 sizes of control
surface available with up to 44 faders. These are
arranged in banks with 4 layers each. The surface has
a 4 slot card frame built in to load up to 4x 8 channel
input or output modules for local I/O.
iLive Flightcases iLive systems can be
ordered with touring grade flightcases. These have
wheels with brakes. The MixRack case uses rubber
shock mounts to protect the rack and has front and
rear covers. The surface case is a three part design.
The surface may be operated while in its base.
CAT5 Cables iLive is shipped with a pair
of short CAT5 cables with locking Neutrik
connectors to connect the rack and surface,
one for audio, one for control. An optional 80m
(262’) drum of armoured CAT5 cable is
available from Allen & Heath. Two drums are
required for the typical system. LEDlamp 4-pin XLR gooseneck
LED lamp with built-in dimmer. Each
Surface has 3 lamp sockets except the
iLive-80 which has 2.
PL Series Remotes iLive is
designed to work with the Allen & Heath
PL Series remote controllers. Several
different models are available. Each
control and indicator can be
programmed from the Surface or using
the Editor software.
iLive System Manager PC
and MAC software for using a PC,
laptop or touch tablet to control the
iLive system or edit its settings off line.
TCP/IP Ethernet connection allows
wired or wireless control with or
without a Surface connected.
iPS10 Backup PSU Rack mounted external
power supply to provide redundant backup for the
iLive Surface or iDR0 MiniRack.

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 9
MIC/LINE IN module
8x mic preamps with remote
gain control.
DUAL MIC/LINE IN module
Connect 16x inputs on screw
terminal plugs. 8x mic
preamps each with remote
selection of A and B inputs.
DIGITAL IN module
4x pairs of digital inputs selectable
either AES, SPDIF or OPTO.
DIGITAL OUT module
4x pairs of digital outputs simultaneously
available AES, SPDIF or OPTO.
MULTI DIGITAL OUT module
16x outputs in digital format. ADAT, Aviom,
Hearback, iDR Expander. Uses 2 slots.
DSP ‘RackExtra’ module
The DSP mix engine, the heart
of the iLive mixing system.
64x32 mix architecture plus 8x
internal effects.
REMOTE AUDIO module
With system clock, headphones
and remote audio distribution. Fit
up to 2 audio network option
cards. EtherSound interface is
available here.
CPU module
Manages the MixRack
system and allows remote
control via Ethernet, MIDI
and PL-Anet. Also provides
a lamp socket.
LINE OUT module
8x balanced line out sockets.
Audio modules
10 slots available.
Slots A to J
System
modules
Slots K, L, M
iDR10
MixRack
Ethernet switch
3x network ports.
ESA
EtherSound digital
snake. Surface
and break out/in
audio.
ESB
EtherSound digital
mic split, system
expansion, record.
PL-Anet
Connect to Allen &
Heath PL-Series
remote controllers.
POWER SUPPLY module
Universal mains input. One
required. Fit second as redundant
supply backup.
Note: You can choose any combination of input, output and blank
modules to load into the 10 available slots. The format above shows all
the options available at the time of print and is not representative of a
typical user setup. The photo below shows a popular configuration with
48 mic inputs and 24 line outputs loaded. Further inputs and outputs
would typically be available at the rear of the surface.
Module extractor tool
To pull out modules if you need
to reconfigure the module
format.
Note: Do not remove or plug
in modules while power is
applied. The iLive system is not
‘hot pluggable’.
FLIGHT CASE
Touring grade case on
wheels. Shock mounted
rack. Front and rear
covers.
CHK indicators
Follow PAFL
selection
PP indicators
Detect phantom
power voltage
on XLR sockets.
MUTE indicators
Display output
mute status.

10 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
Control strip
Meter
Status LCD
Encoder
SEL key
PAFL
Mute
MIX key
Fader
Configure as:
Input channel
FX return
FX send
Group
Aux
Main mix
Matrix
DCA master
PAFL master
iLive-176
44 faders (176 strips)
iLive-144
36 faders (144 strips)
iLive-112
28 faders (112 strips)
Fader Banks
Lamp connectors
Accept standard 12V
console lamps. We
recommend using the
Allen & Heath dimmable
LEDlamp.
iLive
Surface
Backup PSU input
For connection to the
Allen & Heath iPS10
redundant backup
power supply. DC and
temperature sense
Audio connections
XLR sockets for surface Talkback mic
output, PAFL input and local monitor
output. Provides an analogue alternative
for connection to the MixRack when a
digital audio network option is not fitted.
USB and VGA
Two USB ports available
in addition to the two
under the armrest at the
front. Option to connect
a monitor screen to the
VGA output to duplicate
the TouchScreen display.
Internal power supply
Universal mains voltage
power module with IEC
mains connector and
power on/off switch. P-
clip for securing mains
cable.
CPU module
Manages the Surface system
and provides remote control
via Ethernet, MIDI and PL-
Anet. The built-in Ethernet
switch allows connection of
several devices to the
network, for example Surface
and a laptop.
Audio module options
4x card slots A, B, C and D to
fit optional audio input and
output modules. The
REMOTE AUDIO module is
required if audio modules are
fitted. Choose from the same
module types available for the
MixRack.
REMOTE AUDIO module
Provides the digital audio
network interface to transport
the Surface audio to/from the
MixRack and other devices.
Not required if audio modules
are not fitted and analogue
connections are used for
Surface headphones and
talkback.
Channel processing block
Analogue style layout with dedicated rotary controls,
switches and meters for the channel/mix preamp,
HPF, gate, PEQ, compressor and limiter/de-esser.
The controls are accessed using the strip SEL keys.
Select the input channel, mix master or FX return.
TouchScreen
Used for status display, system setup
and memory management. Also
provides an alternative graphical view
of the channel processing. The screen
may be tilted and dimmed.
Soft keys
8x user assignable keys. Up
to V1.2 these are fixed as DCA
group 9-16 mutes, suitable for
use as mute group masters.
Talkback
Talk mic input and
assignment.
Engineer’s monitor
Headphones and
local monitor.
Solo-in-place
PAFL controls
Scene keys
Headphones, USBFreeze, Alt view, GEQ toggleCopy, Paste, Reset
Assign, Pre/Post, Rotary shift For current selected MIXLayer A,B,C,D select per bank
iLive-80
20 faders (80 strips)

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 11
T Series System components
PL-6
Encoders
PL-5
The T Series MixRack is the heart of the digital audio
processing system, housing the DSP mix engine together
with control and audio networking interfaces. The 64x32
architecture can be configured for mono/stereo and type of
mix (group, aux, mains, matrix). The system provides full
dynamics, EQ and delay processing for all inputs and
masters, 8 built-in ‘RackExtra’ effects and 16 DCA groups.
The 8 stereo FX returns add to the 64 input channels to allow
up to 72 sources to the mix. Unlike the standard iLive the
audio connections are fixed format rather than modular. The
racks differ only in the number of Mic/Line inputs and XLR
line outputs available.
iDR-48 the bigger rack: 48 Mic/Line inputs
24 XLR line outputs
iDR-32 the smaller rack: 32 Mic/Line inputs
16 XLR line outputs
The Surface is simply a network controller for the
MixRack. It has a built-in interface for local audio
which is transported to and from the MixRack via the
ACE connection along with the Ethernet control. Each
bank of faders has 4 layers providing a total of 80 or
112 control strips depending on Surface size. These
strips are freely assignable as inputs, mix masters or
DCAs in any combination. Both surfaces offer the
same control, the only difference being that the
smaller 80 does not provide the rotary control section
for the dynamics. These are accessed via the
TouchScreen on this model.
iLive-T112 the bigger surface:
28 faders = 112 strips
16 local line in = 8 TRS, 4 RCA, 2 SPDIF (digital)
14 local out = 8 TRS, 2 RCA, 1 SPDIF, Monitor
iLive-T80 the smaller surface:
20 faders = 80 strips
8 local line in = 4 TRS, 2 RCA, 1 SPDIF
10 local out = 4 TRS, 2 RCA, 1 SPDIF, Monitor
PL Series controllers A range of remote controllers
is available with assignable switches, LEDs, encoders
and faders. These connect to the MixRack via the PL-
Anet serial port using CAT5 cable and can be
configured using the Surface or laptop. The PL-9 hub
is allows star point instead of daisy chain connection.
More information on the PL Series is available on the
Allen & Heath web site.
PL-3 PL-4
PL-9
Hub
PL-10
Faders

12 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
T Series Control layout
Channel Processing Strip Analogue style control
section with dedicated rotary controls, switches and
meters for the channel or mix preamp, HPF, gate, PEQ,
compressor and limiter/de-esser. Press the strip SEL
key to access the processing of the channel or master
assigned to it. The controls illuminate when they are
available.
TouchScreen For status display,
system setup and memory management.
To see an alternative graphical view of
the processing for the channel or master
currently selected make sure none of the
keys below the screen is selected.
Fader Banks Independent groups
of fader strips with 4 layers each.
Provides control of the Input
channel, FX return, Mix master or
DCA assigned to it.
SEL opens the channel processing
for the selected strip.
MIX presents the sends for the
selected strip on faders (or
encoders) and assignments and
pre/post settings in the strip LCD
windows.
Soft Ke
y
s 8 user assi
g
nable ke
y
s
Virtual write-on strip
Name and colour
PAFL
monitor
and SIP
Talkback. Hold
down TB ASSIGN
and press the
master MIX keys
to assign.
Copy/Paste/Reset edit keys
Dimmer
Scene recall keys.
These can be
disabled.
SCENE SAFES to
prevent selected
channels being
overwritten by the
memories. Hold
down SAFES and
press MIX keys to
toggle on or off.
ASSIGN and PRE/POST access
keys for the selected mix.
Hold down ASSIGN and press
strip MIX keys to toggle the
assignments on or off.
Hold down PRE/POST and
press strip SEL keys to toggle
pre or post fade.
Hold down ROTARY SHIFT to
access the second encoder
function if it has one.
Hold down ALT VIEW to
view the channel or
socket numbers in place
of the name in the LCD
windows.
GEQ FADER FLIP to
present the GEQ across
the faders.
FREEZE IN LAYERS to
keep a channel visible
across all layers. Hold
down and press strip
MIX keys.
VGA port for
external monitor
(same view as
TouchScreen).
For future
use…
2x USB
ports.
Plug in
USB key
here.
Local
PAFL
monitor
output
Assignable local
audio inputs and
outputs.
Rows Aand Care
inputs, Band Dare
outputs.
Digital is SPDIF.
Audio/control link
between Surface and
MixRack.
ACE (audio and
control over Ethernet)
CAT5 cable up to
120m (400 feet)
Additional Ethernet ports
for connecting laptops
and wireless router.
MIDI in and out
Lamp
sockets

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 13
Connecting the iLive MixRack and Surface
The iLive has two main system connections between the Surface and MixRack, both using CAT5 cables.
NETWORK is the control interface to the MixRack. ESA primarily connects audio to and from the Surface
and other EtherSound equipped break in/out devices. The optional ESB port can be used to connect
audio between systems such as FOH/Monitor, broadcast or recording. iLive systems are shipped with 1.8
metre UTP CAT5 cables fitted with EtherCon locking connectors as standard. Allen & Heath can supply
an 80 meter drum of approved cable if the Surface is located remote from the MixRack. Two of these are
required to connect control and audio between the MixRack and the Surface. One is required to connect
audio between the MixRack and another remote rack.
Ethernet (control network) CAT5 cable
A 3 port Ethernet switch is built into the CPU module allowing connection of more than one control
device, for example a Surface and a laptop. Cables up to 100 metres (330 feet) may be used. Plug the
CAT5 cable into any NETWORK port. Standard Ethernet hardware may be used to extend or route this
connection if required.
Note: Plug only one CAT5 cable to connect the NETWORK between the MixRack and Surface.
Plug this into any one of the three network ports available. Do not connect a second cable for
redundancy. Third party systems are available to extend the connection or provide dual redundancy.
EtherSound (audio network) CAT5 cable
Plug the MixRack ESA OUT to the Surface ESA IN to connect the PAFL, talkback and rear panel
input/output signals (ES channels 1 to 32) to and from the Surface. Plug the Surface ESA OUT to external
break in/out device ES IN to route signals to and from further locations if required (ES channels 33 to 62).
For information on using the optional ESB network refer to the application diagrams later in this user
guide.
Note: Connect only one EtherSound cable between two devices.Do not connect both IN to OUT
and OUT to IN. The terminology ‘IN’ and ‘OUT’ refers to the clock master and not direction of audio.
Each EtherSound cable carries 64 channels of audio in both directions.
Note: The EtherSound standard is maintained and licensed by Digigram who recommend that only
the cable types and network components tested and approved for EtherSound are used. This is
most important to ensure reliability when using longer cable lengths approaching the 100 metre (330 feet)
maximum. For further information on compatibility please refer to the EtherSound web site:
www.ethersound.com/technology/compatibility.php.
CPU
RAB
ESA IN
CONTROL (ETHERNET)
AUDIO (ETHERSOUND)
Connect RACK ESA OUT to SURFACE ESA IN
NETWORK
NETWORK
ESA OUT
ESB OUT
ETHERSOUND MIC SPLIT / SYSTEM EXPAND

14 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
An IEC mains power cord with moulded plug suitable for your territory is provided for
each power supply module within the system. The iLive system uses universal voltage
power supplies that accept world wide mains sources from 100 to 240V.AC 47 to 63Hz.
Make sure the IEC plugs are pressed fully into their panel sockets and the cables are
clipped into the retaining clips to protect them from accidental disconnection.
Note: To ensure operator safety, connect only to an approved and properly
grounded mains source. Do not remove the ground connection in the mains cord.
Note: Read and understand the warnings in the safety sheet supplied with the
equipment and printed on the power unit panels.
Note: It is good practice to connect both the MixRack and the Surface to the same
mains power ring or feed, and to use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) as a backup
in critical applications where there is any risk of mains or generator power being
interrupted.
MAINS FUSE - In the event of a fuse failure replace only with the correct type and
rating as indicated on the rear panel. If the replacement fuse fails again, switch off and
refer to your Allen & Heath service agent.
ON/OFF switch - Press to switch mains power on or off. Blue status LED indicators
light on the power supplies and modules to indicate that power is present and correct.
iPS10 backup power supply - The optional iPS10 rack mounted power supply unit
may be connected to the Surface or iDR0 MiniRack as a redundant backup if required.
The iDR10 MixRack already has provision for a second backup supply module.
Female plug
Male plug
TEMPERATURE MONITOR CABLE
DC CABLE CAT5
10way
MAINS
Female plug
Male plug
MAINS
iDR0 MINIRACK
INTERNAL PSU
iLIVE SURFACE
iPS10 BACKUP PSU
TEMPERATURE MONITOR CABLE
DC CABLE
IEC MAINS CABLES
CAT5
10way
MAINS
INTERNAL PSU
Mains power 100 - 240V AC
iPS10 BACKUP PSU
IEC MAINS CABLES
Mains power 100 - 240V AC

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 15
Connecting the T Series MixRack and Surface
Adding PL Series controllers
Use CAT5 cable to connect the MixRack PL-Anet port to
the PL device IN socket. Daisy chain OUT to the next
unit, or use a PL-9 hub for star connection. Make sure
the terminator provided is plugged into OUT of the last
device in the chain. Once connected, the PL controls
need to be configured. Settings can be saved as library
items.
Adding laptop control
Check that your laptop meets the system
requirements for running the iLive Editor
software. Read the Release Notes that
come with the software.
Make sure the laptop and wireless router
have network addresses compatible with
the iLive system.
Plug your laptop or wireless router network
connection into any one of the NETWORK
ports at the Surface or MixRack.
Network settings
iLive-T communicates over a TCP/IP network.
There are 3 main components – the MixRack,
Surface and TouchScreen (built into the surface).
These and any other network devices such as a
wireless router and laptop need compatible
network addresses. Factory defaults are:
MixRack 192.168.1.1 Sub mask 255.255.255.0
Surface 192.168.1.2
TouchScreen 192168.1.3
We recommend you set:
Laptop 192.168.1.10 Sub mask 255.255.255.0
Router 192.168.1.245
If the addresses or unit names have been
changed and your system fails to connect, or you
need to reset the settings, refer to the
Troubleshooting page in the TouchScreen HELP.
Connect Surface to MixRack
Plug a CAT5 cable up to 120m (400 feet)
between the Surface and MixRack ACE ports.
An 80m drum of suitable cable is available from
Allen & Heath (part number AH7000).
Note: You only need one connection between
the Surface and MixRack. The control network
data is transported with the audio via the single
cable ACE link. You do not need a second
cable for the network link.
NETWORK
PL-ANET
ACE
Termination
IN OUT IN
The Mixer
The Control Surface
iLive Editor software.
Download from
www.allen-heath.com

16 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
Booting up the system
Turning on the system
Note:Always turn the MixRack on first, then the iLive Surface.
The iLive system remembers its last settings on power up.
1. First, plug in the mains and CAT5 cables.
2. Next, switch on the MixRack power.
3. Then switch on the Surface power.
While searching for the network connection between the MixRack and Surface after
power up, the NETWORK Lnk/Act indicators flash at a slow rate for a few seconds.
Once connection is successfully made the indicators flash at a steady fast rate. If the
EtherSound option is fitted, their RX and TX indicators should flash at a steady fast rate
soon after boot up.
The MixRack and Surface audio outputs are isolated from the connected equipment
during boot up using protection relays to prevent power up thumps. The connector
MUTE indicators light while the outputs are isolated. After around 15 seconds the
relays switch in and audio is presented to the outputs with the settings as they were the
last time the system was powered down.
Boot up time
MixRack It takes around 15 seconds for the DSP to start passing audio with the same
settings current at last power down.
Surface In just over 1 minute the strip LCD displays turn on and the Surface is ready
to take control of the mix. If a password is required for log in then surface operation is
not available until after the TouchScreen has finished booting.
TouchScreen It takes a little longer for the TouchScreen to complete its boot up
process during which time you will see its BIOS load the LINUX operating system and
then the iLive application. In around 2 minutes the screen is ready and the system fully
booted.
Note: If your system fails to connect please refer the section on Network Settings.
Turning off the system
To shut down the system, first power down the TouchScreen using the button in the
UTILITY / Configuration screen. Then switch off both units at their respective power
switches. The system shuts down safely after the current settings have been stored to a
battery backed memory.
Note: Make sure you archive your settings regularly to reduce the risk of losing
or overwriting your data. If power is lost while moving data to or from a USB memory
stick on the console, there is a possibility that your files may become corrupted. It is
good practice to use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for mains backup during
important shows.
At the MixRack: Indicates that the
audio is sync locked to the
selected clock source.
At the Surface: Indicates that the
surface audio is sync locked to
the MixRack.
The yellow Lnk/Act LEDs for connected sockets
flash at a steady rate once the link is established.
If one or more pulse at a slow rate or the red Err
LED remains lit then check that the cables are
correctly plugged in and are not faulty.

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 17
The Status screen
The TouchScreen ‘Status’ page is displayed when the fader strip SEL keys and the keys below the screen
are all off. It is the default view when nothing is selected. It provides display of a real time clock, system
status and access to the user assignable custom meters and the RTA display.
For normal operation green ticks should be present. A red cross means a problem has
been detected and should be checked.
Firmware Displays the current firmware version loaded. A green tick means the
system firmware is operating correctly. A red cross warns that an error has been
detected and has been logged in the system Event Logs. A yellow triangle also
displays in the lower toolbar to alert you if you are in another page. Go to the UTILITY /
Diagnostics / Event Logs page to view the error. The Event Log can be copied to USB
key to be reported to Allen & Heath if required. After viewing the error log the green tick
is restored. For the latest version of iLive firmware please refer to the Allen & Heath web
site.
Temperature The iLive monitors its temperature at several places within the
MixRack, Surface and power supplies. If it exceeds a maximum threshold then a red
cross displays to warn you. Go to the UTILITY / Diagnostics / Temperature page to
view the current temperatures.
MixRack System Lock A green tick displays that the MixRack is sync locked to
the selected audio clock source. If a red cross appears then check the Audio Clock
Source setting in the MIXRACK / Mixer Pref / Audio Sync Networks page.
Port A, Port B These boxes display status information for the digital audio network
options fitted, for example EtherSound or ACE. A green tick next to Surface Lock
indicates that the Surface audio is sync locked to the MixRack.

18 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
Clock Displays the TouchScreen CPU real time clock. The time may be changed
from the UTILITY / Configuration / Date Time page.
Current User The current User name is displayed here. To log in as a different
user go to the UTILITY / Change User page. Up to 8 User Profiles may be set by the
Administrator using the UTILITY / Configuration / Edit User Profiles page.
Last Show Recalled Displays the name of the last Show memory recalled. To
recall a different show go to the UTILITY / Configuration / Show Manager page.
Lower Status bar
Current Mix The left of this toolbar always displays the active fader strip mix type
and number as currently selected using the MIX keys. For example ‘Input 9’ indicates
that the input channel 9 MIX key is selected and the master strips display the
assignments and sends from that input. ‘Mono Aux 1’ indicates that the mono Aux 1
master strip MIX key is selected and the inputs strips display the assignments and
levels to that master. Deselecting a MIX key returns the strips to the Main mix if one is
configured. This is the recommended default mode for FOH mixing. ‘Main’ displays on
the toolbar to indicate you are in the default mix. If there is no main mix, for example a
monitor mix configuration, then the left of the toolbar remains blank when the MIX key is
deselected.
Current and Next Scene The right of the lower toolbar displays the name and
number of the last Scene memory recalled during the session, and the name and
number of the Scene currently highlighted in the SCENES page. The highlighted Scene
is the next that would be recalled when you press the GO key to the right of the faders,
for example for use as scene recall during a theatre production. To enable these keys
go to the TouchScreen SURFACE SETUP / Preferences page.
Note: To avoid accidentally overwriting your current settings make sure the
Surface Scene Keys are disabled if you are not using them.
Status information The lower toolbar also displays useful information while
operating the console. For example, it shows you what parameters are held in the copy
buffer while the COPY or PASTE keys are held down.
USB symbol Displays when the system recognises a USB memory key plugged
into one of its USB ports.
Yellow warning triangle Displays when a system error has been detected.
Return to the Status page for further information.

ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3 19
Surface basics – The TouchScreen
The TouchScreen provides a graphical display of the parameters and assignments, allows configuration
of the system, and management of the memories and data. Unlike many other digital consoles it is not
essential to the live mixing operation. iLive avoids fiddly screen and menu based mixing by providing a
large analogue style channel processing interface with dedicated rotary controls, switches and indicators.
Although the screen can give you an alternative graphical view of these parameters, its main function is
for system setup and data management.
Title bar Displays the name and information about the currently selected screen or
channel.
Return button Touch this button to return to the previous or top level page. The
TouchScreen remembers the last page opened for each screen selected. For example,
if the Compressor was the last item viewed in the channel processing screen, it will
open in the Compressor view again when another channel is selected. Touch Return to
return to the top level ‘thumbnail’ view.
Status bar Displays various status information, the currently selected mix type and
number, and the previous and next scene recall.
Data entry encoder Touch a data display box to select a parameter to adjust.
The box turns orange to show it is selected. The data entry rotary encoder lights
orange to show it is available for updating the value. Change the highlighted parameter
value by scrolling up or down through its range.
Screen keys Press one of these keys to change the screen function. The green
indicator lights to show which is active. With none of these selected the screen shows
either the Status page (no channel selected) or a channel processing view (channel
selected using its green SEL key).
Note: To display the status or channel processing pages make sure the screen
keys are turned off. Selecting one of these keys overrides the status or selected
channel view with the function indicated above the key.
Note: Do not leave the screen in NAME&COLOUR or SURFACE SETUP mode as
these change the strip SEL key function.These modes are used during system
configuration.
Status bar
Title bar
Return button
Work area
Data entry bo
x
Data entry encoderScreen keys

20 ALLEN&HEATH iLive Reference Guide AP6526 iss.3
All screen keys turned off – STATUS With all the screen
keys and strip SEL keys turned off the TouchScreen displays the
Status page. This shows system status including firmware,
temperature, audio system lock and digital audio network status. A
red cross means a problem is detected. The page also displays the
time, current user and last Scene recalled name. The lower part of
the screen can be used to select one of the four custom user meter
views or the RTA display.
All screen keys turned off – Strip SEL selected If you
press a strip SEL key while the screen keys are turned off then the
TouchScreen displays the processing view for that channel. This can
provide additional graphical information for the parameters shown on
the controls to the left of the screen, for example an EQ or dynamics
curve. Some channel and mix parameters are only available via the
screen, for example delay, insert assignment, name and colour.
Screen key selected:
METERS Select from several pages of audio meters showing
input channels, effects and mix masters. Includes 4x user custom
meter views. You can name each view and configure any
combination of up to 16 meters and spaces per view. The screen
also lets you view the RTA display. The custom views and RTA can
also be selected from the default Status page.
PAFL Set user preferences for the PAFL engineer’s monitoring
system. Choose between additive and auto-cancelling operating
mode, adjust the AFL trim to avoid big level differences between PFL
and AFL, set main mix to monitor level when no PAFL is selected, and
choose to link the SEL and/or MIX keys with PAFL key presses. You
can turn on and select the External Input to PAFL source for reverse
talkback, and set delay to time align the monitor to the acoustic
sound from the stage.
ROUTING This screen displays the routing and DCA
assignments, direct out trim, send levels and preferences for the
channel currently selected using the SEL key. For the Aux masters it
lets you select the channel send source and choose to have the
sends on faders or rotaries. The screen can provide an alternative to
adjusting the mix sends and assignments on the fader strips using the
MIX keys.
OUTPUTS Map signals to the physical sockets and audio network
channels. Touch tabs let you select the MixRack, Surface, Port A and
B patch bays. Assign single or a range of sockets from a choice of
mixes, direct outs, insert sends and other sources.