Alpermann+Velte RUBIDIUM User manual

Installation & Systems Manual
Version: 4.1
September 26, 2012
RUBIDIUM SERIES
Universal Video Data Processor

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Page 3
CONTENTS
A1 REVISION HISTORY
A2 COPYRIGHT
A3 WARRANTY
A4 UNPACKING/SHIPPING/REPACKAGING INFORMATION
A5 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
A6 EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
1INTRODUCING THE RUBIDIUM SERIES 16
1.1 OVERVIEW 16
1.2 CONFIGURATION OF THE MODULES: THE PC CONNECTOR 17
1.3 SYSTEM EXTENSIONS: THE RLC CONNECTOR AND FURTHER INTERFACES
18
1.3.1 The “TC_link” Interface 18
1.3.2 The FAIL Signals: Error Detecting 19
1.3.3 24 VDC 19
1.3.4 Ethernet: The Gate to a Local Area Network 19
1.3.5 Local Serial Interfaces 19
1.4 MODULE AND SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 20
1.4.1 Overview 20
1.4.2 Unique Identification of a Module and a Frame 20
1.4.3 Installation of a Module 21
1.4.4 Update 21
2THE RUBIDIUM FRAMES 22
2.1 RUBIDIUM SERIES 1 22
2.1.1 The “RUB1 S1” and “RUB1 T1” Chassis 22
2.1.2 The “RUB1 H1” Frame 24
2.1.3 The “RUB1 D1” Frame 25
2.1.4 The “RUB1 Q1” Frame 27
2.1.5 Plug-In a Module 29
2.1.6 Remove a Module 30
2.1.7 The Fan Module: Fan, Frame Address, TC_link Termination 31
2.2 RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 32
2.2.1 The “RUB3 H3” Frame 32
2.2.2 Plug-In a Module 33
2.2.3 Remove a Module 34
2.2.4 The RC Module: Fan Control, Frame Address, TC_link Termination 35
2.2.5 Exchange a Fan 35

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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3MODULES OF THE SYSTEM 36
3.1 PS: 60 W POWER SUPPLY OF RUBIDIUM SERIES 1 36
3.2 PT: 60 W POWER SUPPLY OF RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 37
3.3 PQ: 60 W POWER SUPPLY WITH OLED DISPLAY 38
3.4 PD: POWER DISTRIBUTION 39
3.5 AT: ANALOGUE VIDEO TIME CODE 40
3.6 AV: ANALOGUE VIDEO 41
3.7 AT/AV STANDARD OPTIONS 42
3.8 AI: ANALOGUE VIDEO FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS 43
3.9 DT: DIGITAL VIDEO TIME CODE 44
3.10 DV: DIGITAL VIDEO 45
3.11 DT/DV STANDARD OPTIONS 46
3.12 DI: DIGITAL VIDEO FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS 47
3.13 HT: HD/SD VIDEO DATA AND TIME CODE (DISCONT.) 48
3.14 HV: HD/SD VIDEO DATA (DISCONT.) 49
3.15 XT: 3G/HD/SD VIDEO DATA AND TIME CODE 50
3.16 XV: 3G/HD/SD VIDEO DATA 51
3.17 XT/XV STANDARD OPTIONS 52
3.18 XI: DIGITAL VIDEO FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS 53
3.19 GT: MASTER TIME CODE GENERATOR 54
3.20 GI: MASTER IRIG-B GENERATOR 55
3.21 GL: LTC(MTD) GENERATOR 56
3.22 GT/GI/GL: STANDARD OPTIONS 57
3.23 GW: MASTER WORD CLOCK GENERATOR 58
3.24 GB: MASTER BLACK BURST GENERATOR 59
3.25 VD: DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 60
3.26 VI: LTC OR IRIG DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 61
3.27 VM: CONTINUOUS WAVE DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 62
3.28 VL: LTC DISTRIBUTION AND CONVERTER MODULE 63
3.29 VT: TELEGRAM DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER 64
3.30 IE: INTERFACE ETHERNET 65
3.31 GPS 10 MHZ: GPS SATELLITE RECEIVER 66
3.32 GLS 10 MHZ: GLONASS/GPS SATELLITE RECEIVER 67
3.33 SL: LTC MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 68
3.34 SV: VITC MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 69
3.35 SR: REFERENCE MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 70
3.36 SI: IRIG MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 71
3.37 SW: WORD CLOCK MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER UNIT 72
3.38 SB: ANALOGUE VIDEO MONITORING AND CHANGEOVER 73

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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4SOFTWARE TOOLS FOR RUBIDIUM SERIES 74
4.1 THE RUBIDIUM CONFIGURATION PC PROGRAM 74
4.1.1 Overview 74
4.1.2 Installation 74
4.1.3 Connection to RUBIDIUM SERIES Chassis 75
4.1.4 Starting the Program 76
4.1.5 Overview of Tab Functions 77
4.1.6 Store a Set-Up to a File, Load and Update the Set-Up of a Module 78
4.1.7 The “Profile” Tab: Store and Load a Complete Set-Up on the Module 79
4.1.8 The “System” Tab: Module Identification, Reset, SNMP, Fan Control 80
4.2 THE RUBIDIUM SERIES HTTP SERVER 82
4.2.1 Overview, Connecting the IE Module 82
4.2.2 IP Configuration 83
4.2.3 The Rubidium Homepage 84
4.2.4 Browser Requirements 84
4.2.5 Accessing a Configurable Module 85
4.2.6 The “Functions“ Page 86
4.2.7 The “Profile“ Page: Store and Load Set-Ups on the Module or on the PC 87
4.2.8 The “System“ Page: Module Identification, Reset, SNMP, Fan Control 89
4.3 THE STATUS MONITOR 90
4.3.1 Status Monitor by IE Module 90
4.3.2 Status Monitor by PC Program 91
4.3.3 Status of Fans and Power Supplies 92

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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A1 Revision History
No. Date Subject
2.0 January 12, 2005 New title and new arrangement of the document: old title “Installation & Operation
Manual” changed to “Installation & Systems Manual”. Modules description will be
found in separate documents.
2.1 January 27, 2005 Extended and revised.
2.2 February 09, 2005 Description of RUBIDIUM SERIES 3.
Description of module GPS 10MHz.
2.3 June 02, 2005 Extended and revised.
3.0 July 28, 2005 New revision of RUB H1 frame.
3.1 November 08, 2005 New modules VI, VM, GI, SI.
3.2 December 23, 2005 S1 frame.
3.3 June 16, 2006 New modules: PQ, VL, HT, HV.
T1 chassis.
Chapter “Software Tools for RUBIDIUM SERIES” revised.
3.4 November 22, 2006 Chapter 2.1.5 (fan module), 4.1.8 and 4.2.6 (system) revised.
3.5 April 16, 2007 - “TC-link” instead of RS485.
- Remove a module: maintain the air flow.
- RUB H1 fan module: revised.
- RUB H3 RC module: new.
3.6 June 25, 2007 Revised.
3.7 November 20, 2007 Revised.
3.8 April 24, 2008 Extended and revised.
3.9 August 26, 2010 Revised.
New modules: GW, SW, GB.
3.A May 20, 2011 RUB H3 PC connector: USB.
4.0 July 06, 2012 D1: revised.
HT/HV: discontinued.
IRIG-B 03: removed.
New: Q1, XT/XV, GLS 10 MHz, SB.
Completely revised.
4.1 September 26, 2012 New chapter: RUBIDIUM SERIES 3 – Exchange a Fan.
New hardware version DT/DV: version 3.
New LTC output gain specifications.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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A2 Copyright
Copyright © Alpermann+Velte Electronic Engineering GmbH 2002. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, translated into another language, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior written consent of Alpermann+Velte Electronic
Engineering GmbH.
Printed in Germany.
Technical changes are reserved.
All brand and product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective holders.
Information in this publication replaces all previously published information. Alpermann+Velte Electronic Engineering GmbH
assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein.
For further information please contact your local dealer or:
Alpermann+Velte
Electronic Engineering GmbH
Otto-Hahn-Str. 42
D-42369 Wuppertal
Phone: ++49 - (0)202 – 244 111 0
Fax: ++49 - (0)202 – 244 111 5
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.alpermann-velte.com

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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A3 Warranty
Alpermann+Velte warrants that their products will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of two years from the date of shipment. If this product proves
defective during the warranty period, Alpermann+Velte, at its option, will repair or replace the
defective product without charge, provided this product are returned to Alpermann+Velte
freight prepaid.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Alpermann+Velte of the
defect before expiration of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the
performance of service. Customer shall be responsible for packaging and shipping the
defective product to Alpermann+Velte, please notice the Shipping Information given below.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by abuse, misuse,
improper use, negligence, accident, modification, alteration, or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care.
This warranty is given by Alpermann+Velte with respect to this product in lieu of any other
warranties, express or implied. Alpermann+Velte and its vendors disclaim any implied
warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Alpermann+Velte’s responsi-
bility to repair or replace defective products is the sole and exclusive remedy provided to the
customer for breach of this warranty. Alpermann+Velte and its vendors will not be liable for
any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages irrespective of whether
Alpermann+Velte or the vendor has advance notice of the possibility of such damages.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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A4 Unpacking/Shipping/Repackaging Information
This product has been carefully inspected, tested and calibrated before shipment to ensure
years of stable and trouble-free service.
The shipping carton and pads provide protection for the product during transit. Retain the
shipping cartons in case subsequent shipment becomes necessary.
Carefully unpack the product from its transit material and carefully check the product for signs
of damage. In the event that the product has been damaged during transit, contact the carrier
and your Alpermann+Velte dealer.
Please confirm that all items listed on the packing list have been received. Check the items
against your original order to ensure that you have received the correct parts. If any item is
missing, please contact your Alpermann+Velte dealer.
Ensure that all packaging material is removed from the product and its associated
components before installing the unit.
Products returned to Alpermann+Velte for servicing or repair should have a tag attached
showing:
Name and complete address of the owner and the name of the person that can be
contacted.
Unit’s serial number and a description of the service required or failure detected.
Products returned should be shipped prepaid in the original packaging material if possible. If
the original packaging is not available or is unfit for use, supply an adequate packaging
which should meet the following criteria:
Packaging must be able to withstand the product weight.
Product must be held rigid within the packaging.
Allow at least two inches of space between the product and the container.
The corners of the product must be protected.
Seal the carton with shipping tape or an industrial stapler.
If the product is still within the warranty period, the product will be returned by prepaid
shipment after servicing.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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A5 Safety Instructions
The general safety information in this part is for both operating and service personnel.
Alpermann+Velte products are only to be used as directed. Specific warnings and cautions will
be found throughout the manual where they apply.
Review the following safety instructions to avoid injury and prevent damage to this product or
any products connected to it.
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Safety Terms and Symbols
Terms and Symbols in this manual:
WARNING: Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could
result in injury or loss of life.
CAUTION: Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result
in damage to this product or other property.
Terms and Symbols which may be found on the product:
DANGER: High Voltage.
ATTENTION: Refer to the manual.
Protective Ground (Earth) Terminal.
Disconnect the power cord if Power Supply module is removed from the frame.
Off (power entry switch ‘off’).
On (power entry switch ‘on’).
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices.
Signal Ground.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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Injury Precautions
One or more Power Supply module(s) may be present within this product’s frame, in that case
observe the following precautions:
WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: Potentially lethal voltages are present within this product’s Power
Supply module during normal operation. The power cord of the Power Supply
module must be disconnected before the module is removed from the frame.
Power should not be applied to the frame without covers or panels installed,
unless properly trained personnel are servicing the unit.
POWER SOURCE
This product is intended to operate from a power source that will not apply
more than 264Vrms between the supply conductors or between either supply
and ground. A protective ground connection by way of the grounding
conductor in the power cord is essential for safe operation.
GROUNDING THE PRODUCT
This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power
module power cord. To avoid electric shock, plug the power cord into a
properly wired receptacle before connecting the product input or output
terminals. A protective ground connection by way of the grounding conductor
in the power cord is essential for safe operation. Upon loss of the protective
ground connection, all accessible conducting parts can render an electric
shock.
USE PROPER POWER CORD
To avoid fire hazard, use only the power cord specified for the power module.
Do not use an extension cord.
USE PROPER FUSE
To avoid fire hazard, use only the fuse of the correct type, voltage rating, and
current rating as specified for the power module.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Page 12
Observe the following general precautions irrespective of the number or kind of modules
plugged to the frame:
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT COVERS
To avoid electrical shock or fire hazard, do not operate this product with covers
or panels removed.
DO NOT OPERATE IN WET/DAMP CONDITIONS
To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this apparatus to
rain or moisture.
DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE
To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this product in an explosive
atmosphere.
Product Damage Precautions
PREVENT OVERHEATING
To prevent product overheating, position the unit only where sufficient air
circulation can be maintained. Good air circulation is essential to prevent
internal heat build-up, do not block any ventilation openings. Do not expose
the unit to direct sun light or any other strong lights. Keep the unit away from
heat sources. Install the unit in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
PROVIDE PROPER ENVIRONMENT
Dust, humidity, shocks and strong electromagnetic fields must be avoided. Do
not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing water. Ensure that no
objects filled with liquid are placed on the apparatus.
UNPLUG DURING LIGHTNING STORMS
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time. Alternative: Use a UPS or power surge suppressor.
OBSERVE EMC REGULATIONS
The EMC regulations are observed only under the following condition: Use
high quality shielded cables at data inputs and outputs.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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SUSPECTED FAILURES
Whenever it is likely that safe operation is impaired, the apparatus must be
made inoperative and secured against unintended operation. The appropriate
service authority must then be informed. Do not operate with suspected
failures. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: CLEANING
Qualified Service Personnel Only: The apparatus should be cleaned often
enough to prevent dust or dirt from accumulating. Dust accumulating in the
apparatus acts as an insulating blanket, preventing proper cooling, and
possibly causing overheating and component breakdown. Under high humidity
conditions, accumulated dust can also provide an electrical conduction path.
Remove accumulated dust with a soft cloth or small paint brush. Remove
hardened dirt with a soft cloth, dampened in a mild detergent and water
solution. Do not use polish or abrasive cleaners or any other chemical cleaning
agents.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: VISUAL INSPECTION
Qualified Service Personnel Only: Visually inspect the apparatus for signs of
damage, scorched components, and loose or disconnected pin connectors. If
you discover heat damaged parts, try to determine the cause of the
overheating before replacing the damaged parts; otherwise, the damage may
repeat.
ATTENTION:
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices. See “Electro
Static Discharge (ESD) Precautions” below for details.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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Electro Static Discharge (ESD) Precautions
All semiconductor devices are sensitive to ESD. To prevent any damage or
degradation on components of the product caused by ESD, observe these
precautions when directed to do so (installing, removing sensitive
components):
1. Use a Ground Strap. Wear a grounded anti-static wrist or heel strap to discharge the
static voltage from your body.
2. Use a Safe Work Area. Avoid handling components in areas that have a floor or work
surface covering capable of generating a static charge. Also nothing capable of
generating or holding a static charge should be allowed in the work area.
3. Handle ESD sensitive components carefully. Do not slide components over any surface.
Do not touch exposed connector pins. Pick-up components by the body, never by the
leads.
4. Transport and store sensitive components or assemblies in a static-protected bag or
container.
Battery Use Warnings
CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly placed. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard
used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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A6 EC Declaration of Conformity

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Page 16
1 Introducing the RUBIDIUM SERIES
1.1 Overview
RUBIDIUM SERIES is a modular system which offers flexibility to its users. Various rack mount
frames are available.
On principle, a distinction is made between 1RU (RUB1) and 3RU (RUB3).
One RUB1 module can be plugged to “RUB1 T1” as tabletop unit or for special mounting
and to “RUB1 S1” for 19”/1RU mounting.
Two RUB1 modules can be plugged to “RUB1 D1” or “RUB1 Q1”. Both chassis are
19”/1RU units and include a display. “RUB1 D1” additionally has an integrated power
supply and offers an XLR/DSUB/RJ45 adapter for LTC signals at the rear.
“RUB1 H1” houses up to four RUB1 modules in 19”/1RU space.
“RUB3 H3” chassis provides capacity for 21 slots in 19”/3RU space. It accepts RUB3
modules. Some modules require two slots, other only one slot.
Hot swapping of the rear loading modules is possible. The connectors for inputs and outputs
are a standard part of the module.
Quantity and type of the modules depend on application. In a typical application, the frame
will be equipped with a power supply module (PS) and one or more time code modules (XT,
AT, GT, ...). The RLC connector at the rear of the frame has a 24 V pin (not for “RUB1 D1”)
which enables operation without a power supply module by using external power supply. It is
also possible to supply power from one internal power supply module in one frame to another
frame, via this RLC connector (not for “RUB1 D1”).
The slots within a frame only differ by their individual, hard wired address. Modules which
have an individual configuration (e.g. the time code and video modules, but not the power
supply modules), can be located by their addresses. The PC connector of the frame provides
an interface for the configuration of the modules. Each module can operate as a stand-alone
unit or as an interconnected complete system. The front bus of the frame distributes the
internal “TC_link” interface and the supply voltage.
The “TC_link” interface is connected to the RLC connector at the rear of the frame, too. This
offers a link to modules located in other frames. “FAIL” signals can be used for error detec-
tion: If a total failure occurs in any module in one frame the “FAIL” contacts of this frame’s
relay will close.
Alpermann+Velte
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
PC
RLC
KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID KEY KEY KEY KEYID
TC_link/FAIL/24V
USB/RS232
The “RUB1 H1” frame: Connectors RLC and PC, internal signal distribution

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
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ADR = 20
ADR = 1
ADR = 2
ADR = 21
1
PC
1
RLC
(at the rear)
till May 2011
DSUB9F
PC
since May 2011
USB 5-pin mini B
The “RUB3 H3” frame (front view): Connectors RLC and PC, slots
1.2 Configuration of the Modules: The PC Connector
Alpermann+Velte
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
USB
RS232
PC
RLC
The slots of the frame only differ by their individual, hard wired address. Modules which can
be individually configured (e.g. the time code and video modules, but not power supply
modules), can be located by their addresses. The PC connector at the frame provides the
interface for the configuration of a module. With the aid of our configuration software each
module can be addressed and can receive a user selectable configuration. Chapter “The
RUBIDIUM CONFIGURATION PC Program” gives a short overview of the wide range of
options to set up a module. Details to the features of a single module are given in the
description of the individual module.
The PC interface can be of RS232 or USB standard:
RS232 USB
Use a straight (1:1) cable to the standard RS232 interface of a PC.
Parameter of the RS232 interface: 38400/8/E/1.
Pin assignment of the 9-pins DSUB female PC connector:
Pin Description
2 TxD, Transmit Data, output
3 RxD, Receive Data, input
5 GND, signal ground
Minimal requirement for
your PC: USB 1.1.
H1/S1/T1/D1/Q1:
Use a common “Type A
to Type B” cable.
H3:
USB A to 5-pin mini B
as standard accessory.

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Page 18
1.3 System Extensions: The RLC Connector and
Further Interfaces
Alpermann+Velte
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
RLC
SERIAL
(RS232/RS422)
10/100base-T
Alpermann+Velte
R U B I D I U M SERIES 1
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
OPER
ERROR
SET
SIGNAL
ADR = 4
ADR = 3
ADR = 2
ADR = 1
RLC
TC_link (RS485 Bus)
Hub
Ethernet
Network
Local Remote Control /
Real Time Data Request
Frame 1
Frame 2
Pin assignment of the 9-pins DSUB female connector RLC:
Pin Description
1 FAIL_A
2 TC_link (RS485, TR-)
3 TC_link (RS485, TR+)
4 FAIL_B
5, 6, 7 GND, signal ground
8, 9 Nominal 24 VDC, 3 A maximum.
Not connected at “RUB1 D1”.
1.3.1 The “TC_link” Interface
The “TC_link” interface enables a communication between modules, even between modules
located in different frames. Electrically, it is based on an RS485 interface with a baud rate of
115,000. 256 modules at maximum are allowed to share one TC_link. External cables should
not exceed an overall length of 4000 feet (1200 m). Termination is provided at the fan
module (H1 or Q1 frame) and at the RC module (H3 frame), please refer to the related
chapters.
The communication protocol depends on the module and application.

Installation & Systems Manual RUBIDIUM SERIES
Page 19
1.3.2 The FAIL Signals: Error Detecting
The FAIL signals can be used for error detection. The signals FAIL_A and FAIL_B are relay
based contacts. The normally open contacts close if a breakdown of any module in this frame
occurs. Each module is equipped with its own relay. The contacts are normally open during
operation, but close if power fails. The relays of all modules are in parallel and connected to
the FAIL_A and FAIL_B pins. So in the event of a breakdown of a module, FAIL_A and FAIL_B
pins are interconnected via a relay.
Specification of FAIL_A and FAIL_B:
Maximum switching power 10 W
Maximum switching voltage 48 V
Maximum switching current 0.5 A
Maximum transportable current 1.0 A
1.3.3 24 VDC
This pin can be a voltage supply input or output.
If you have a frame without a power supply module, this pin serves as the voltage input.
Having a frame with at least one power supply module, this pin can be used to supply voltage
to another frame. In this case no external voltage output of a Non-Rubidium power supply
should be connected at this pin. See specifications of the power supply module if this pin is
used as a voltage supply output.
Rated current: Maximum 3 A.
This is a non-fused terminal. For any use it is necessary to verify that the specifi-
cations of the power supply (output power, output current, output voltage) are in
accordance with the needs of all the connected loads (overall load, overall
current, rated voltage).
1.3.4 Ethernet: The Gate to a Local Area Network
The Ethernet module (IE) provides access to the “TC_link” interface of the RUBIDIUM system,
thus having access to each module integrated in this system.
1.3.5 Local Serial Interfaces
Some modules provide a local serial interface, selectable as RS232 or RS422 or RS485. A
controlling device can use this interface to remote control this module and/or to exchange
data in real time.

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Page 20
1.4 Module and System Configuration
1.4.1 Overview
The software determines the functionality of the modules. The broadcast data has a nearly
unlimited range of applications. The modular concept of RUBIDIUM SERIES and the pro-
grammable parts of the modules enhances the flexibility of our system. For example two
basically identical modules could be used in completely different applications. This can be
achieved either, with the same software but with different configurations (e.g. one module
serves as time code reader, other module as time code generator), or with different program-
ming of the firmware - including programming of logic electronic parts.
Moreover the RUBIDIUM SERIES concept allows users to combine various modules to
enhance functionality. A module in such a system needs a unique identification.
So “configuration” has the following tasks:
1. Unique identification: Address and access a module in a frame and in a more complex
system.
2. Installation of a module: Select the operating mode, adjust parameters, program the
function keys, request and display status data, etc.
3. Update: Transfer a new software/firmware to the flash memory, program the logic
devices, change data records (e.g. character fonts), etc.
The included PC program “RUBIDIUM CONFIGURATION“ handles these tasks.
1.4.2 Unique Identification of a Module and a Frame
An individual hard-wired address is assigned to the module by the position within the frame:
Address 1 = unit 1 = position most left (looking at the front side of the frame, see chapter
“Overview”). The “RUBIDIUM CONFIGURATION“ program for PC’s or the RUBIDIUM SERIES
HTTP Server requires this address before communication to the module can be established.
The hard-wired address alone is not sufficient to uniquely identify a module in a system
consisting of more than one frame. The RUBIDIUM SERIES HTTP Server additionally offers to
identify a frame by a number (1 to 31). A module than can be accessed having the right frame
and the right place within the frame selected. In this case each module which is addressable
must have stored the number of the frame in its non-volatile memory. The “RUBIDIUM
CONFIGURATION“ program for PC’s enables you to enter and store this number, utilising the
“System” tab.
In case of servicing - for whatever reason - is required it may be necessary to identify a
module within the meaning of sales. Each module can be uniquely identified by its serial
number, which is human readable and located on the bottom side of the lower circuit board
of each module. Sometimes it is sufficient to know the reference to the project or the order.
Easy access to this information is given by the serial number of the frame, located near the
front at the outside right-handed (looking toward front of the frame). You can easily read this
serial number if you pull the frame a little out of the mounting rack.