Cadac M16 Instruction Manual

Remote Controlled
Microphone Amplifier
M16

Remote Controlled Microphone Amplifier
Installation & User Manual
M16

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents ................................................i
Introduction .......................................................iii
Features .............................................................iv
Using the M16 Manual ......................................iv
Declaration of conformity .................................v
1 Important Safety Instructions ........................1-1
1.1 Mains Cable ............................................................ 1-1
1.2 Changing the fuse ................................................... 1-1
1.3 Fuse Types.............................................................. 1-2
1.4 Servicing.................................................................. 1-3
1.5 Do not remove any covers ...................................... 1-3
1.6 Safety checklist ....................................................... 1-3
2 Important information .....................................2-1
2.1 Unpacking ............................................................... 2-1
2.2 Operational considerations...................................... 2-2
2.2.1 AC mains voltage .......................................... 2-2
2.3 Cleaning .................................................................. 2-2
2.4 Installation ............................................................... 2-2
3 The M16 Microphone Amplifier ......................3-1
3.1 M16 Front panel ...................................................... 3-1
3.2 M16 Rear Panel ...................................................... 3-2
3.3 Connecting up your M16 ......................................... 3-3
3.3.1 Mains power............................................. 3-3
3.3.2 Ground stud ............................................. 3-3
3.3.3 Audio Connections ................................... 3-3
3.3.4 Power On ................................................. 3-4
3.4 Standalone operation .............................................. 3-4
3.4.1 Channel LED indicators ........................... 3-4
3.4.2 PFL switch................................................ 3-4
3.4.3 MUTE switch ............................................ 3-5
3.4.4 Channel Control Section .......................... 3-5
3.4.5 Single Channel Selection ......................... 3-5
3.4.6 Multiple Channel Selection....................... 3-5
3.4.7 Channel Control Section Parameters....... 3-6
3.5 Headphones ............................................................ 3-7
3.6 MADI Output............................................................ 3-7
3.6.1 Connecting the MADI Output ................... 3-8
3.6.2 MADI Setup.............................................. 3-8
3.6.3 Sample Frequency Selection ................... 3-8
3.6.4 MADI Channel Selection .......................... 3-8
3.6.5 Word Clock............................................... 3-9
3.7 Monitoring the PFL bus on multiple M16 units ........ 3-9

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4 Remote control of the M16 ............................ 4-1
4.1 Introduction..............................................................4-1
4.2 RS-485 Communications Protocol...........................4-1
4.3 CADAC RM16 Remote Mic Amp. Controller ...........4-1
4.4 Front Panel ..............................................................4-2
4.5 Rear Panel...............................................................4-2
4.6 Connections.............................................................4-2
4.6.1 RM16 Power.............................................4-2
4.6.2 Remote Control Comms Backbone..........4-3
4.7 Single M16, RM16 System Connections .................4-4
4.8 Multiple M16, RM16 System Connections...............4-4
4.9 Power On Sequence ...............................................4-5
4.10 RM16 configuration .................................................4-5
4.10.1 Configuring the system.............................4-5
4.10.2 Control Menu............................................4-7
4.10.3 Naming M16 units ....................................4-7
4.10.4 Naming M16 channels..............................4-8
4.10.5 System Integrity........................................ 4-9
4.11 RM16 Meters .........................................................4-10
4.11.1 Channel Mute indication.........................4-10
4.11.2 Meter Brightness Control........................4-10
4.12 Controlling M16 microphone channels ..................4-10
4.12.1 M16 selection .........................................4-10
4.12.2 Channel Selection ..................................4-11
4.13 Gain Control ..........................................................4-11
4.14 Mute.......................................................................4-11
4.15 Pad Switch: Pad ....................................................4-11
4.16 Polarity Reverse Switch: Rev ................................4-11
4.17 Phantom Power Switch: 48v..................................4-11
4.18 High Pass Filter: ....................................................4-12
M16 Specifications .................................. SPEC1
Appendices ................................................APP-1
Connector wiring.................................................APP-1
CADAC USB ReProgramming Utility..................APP-4
M16 Software Version ........................................APP-8
Warranty ....................................... WARRANTY-1
Index ....................................................... INDEX-1

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Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the M16 Remote Controlled Microphone
Amplifier from CADAC Electronics plc.
CADAC is renowned for supplying arguably the highest quality audio
mixing consoles for the world-wide professional audio industry for
over 36 years. In all these years the driving force behind the compa-
ny’s research and development program has been to strive for prod-
ucts that not only provide the exact functionality required but also
exceptional audio performance and reliability. This can be attested
throughout the world, with many hundreds of CADAC consoles
working day in day out in many of the world’s premier venues and
tours.
For over 30 years CADAC has been receiving high praise for its very
natural sounding microphone amplifier, and the release of the new
CADAC M16 encompasses the sound of that classic amplifier in a
compact 19” 3U rack multi-channel format that is equally suitable for
live, broadcast, as well as general applications. The M16 has been
engineered to deliver exceptional quality and reliability. Premium
quality performance is maintained throughout the signal path, result-
ing in a very wide bandwidth, flat frequency response, impressive
phase response and generous headroom.
We trust that the CADAC M16 will bring many years of satisfaction
and thank you for your patronage.
The CADAC team

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Features
■16 channels of high performance microphone amplifiers.
■Ideal solution for touring, broadcast or recording applications
when high quality microphone amplifiers are required.Each
channel output is provided with an integral 3-way active splitter.
■Each output is designed to drive over long cable lengths in
excess of 500m
■All channels are fitted with a switchable high pass filter.
■An optical MADI output is provided to allow multi-channel con-
nection to digital consoles or workstations.
■High build quality with hand tuned Common Mode Rejection and
Balanced circuitry on all I/O.
■Front Panel control of all parameters, or remote control options.
■Up to 32 x M16 units can be connected to one control system.
■Audio interfaces directly with the CADAC D16, 16 x 16 Digital
Mix Matrix via dedicated buss link connectors.
■Designed to exceed current EMC directives, and immune from
receiving or transmitting radio frequency interference.
Using the M16 Manual
In order to obtain the most out of your M16, please read the User
Manual carefully.
Prior to installing and using the M16, it is also important that you
have read both Safety Instructions and Important Information.
If you still have a problem that cannot be resolved by referring to this
manual, then please contact your local CADAC distributor.
All information provided within this user manual is provided in good
faith. CADAC follows a policy of continual product development;
changes to equipment specification may be made without prior no-
tice.

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Declaration of conformity
The Directives covered by this Declaration
89/336/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility directive, amended by
92/31/EEC & 93/68/EEC
The Products Covered by this Declaration
M16 remote controlled microphone amplifier.
RM16 remote controller
The Basis on which Conformity is being Declared
The products identified above comply with the requirements of the
above EU Directives by meeting the following standards:
BS EN 55103-1:1997 Electromagnetic compatibility - Product
family standard for audio, video, audio-
visual and entertainment lighting control
apparatus for professional use.
Part 1 – Emissions
BS EN 55103-2:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product
family standard for audio, video, audio-
visual and entertainment lighting control
apparatus for professional use.
Part 2 – Immunity
BS EN 60065:1998 Audio, Video and similar electronic appa-
ratus. Safety requirements.
Signed:............................
Authority: General Manager
Date: 24 January 2005
Attention!
The attention of the specifier, purchaser, installer, or user is drawn
to special measures and limitations to use which must be observed
when these products are taken into service to maintain compliance
with the above directives. Details of these special measures and lim-
itations to use are available on request, and are also contained in the
M16 Installation & User manual.

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1 Important Safety Instructions
1.1 Mains Cable
The supplied IEC mains cable must be correctly terminated before
use. Use only an approved AC plug or power distribution device.
Safety ground must be connected at all times.
Safety Earth = Green/Yellow
Live = Brown
Neutral = Blue
1.2 Changing the fuse
To avoid the risk of fire, use only the recommended fuse type as in-
dicated in this manual and on the M16. Do not short-circuit the fuse
holder.
Before changing the fuse, always switch off the unit and remove the
IEC mains cable.
NOTE: Both Live and Neutral are fused, therefore the M16 fuse
holder contains TWO fuses. Do not make the mistake of think-
ing that one is a spare!
To replace a fuse, remove the fuse holder (located adjacent to the
IEC mains socket) by pulling the tab that projects slightly over the lip
of the socket.
FIG 1-1. Remove the fuse holder
Fuse holder

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Replace the blown fuse with an identical type. See Fuse Types be-
low for further details.
Refit the fuse holder, taking care to align it properly. The guide arm
of the fuse holder slots into the power connector assembly.
Once in place, push the fuse holder home and confirm that it is fully
seated.
1.3 Fuse Types
Live: 90v - 250v: 2A Type T
Neutral: 90v - 250v: 2A Type T
FIG 1-2. Replace the fuse
Fuses
FIG 1-3. Refit the fuse holder Fuse holder
FIG 1-4. Push the fuse holder
home
Push in fuse holder

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1.4 Servicing
There are no serviceable parts contained within the M16. Refer all
servicing to your CADAC distrib-
utor.
1.5 Do not remove any covers
Within the M16 are areas where high and dangerous voltages are
present. Removing any covers will invalidate warranty.
1.6 Safety checklist
■Install in accordance with CADAC’s instructions.
■Do not place the apparatus on an unstable or uneven surface.
■Do not insert objects through any apertures. Doing so could
result in damage to the unit or electric shock.
■Do not use this apparatus near water.
■Do not block any of the ventilation openings
■Do not install near any heat sources.
■Do not install near naked flames.
■Protect the mains cable from being stressed or pinched.
■For optimum results, do not use the M16 on the same electrical
circuit as industrial equipment, such as motors, stage machinery
or any other equipment that causes noise or switching transients
on the mains circuit.
■Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused
for long periods of time.
■Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions.
■Use only the mains cable provided with the M16. Other cables
may not have sufficient current rating.
■Do not operate this unit with the cover removed.
■Unplug the unit before cleaning.

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2 Important information
2.1 Unpacking
The packaging for the M16 is designed to safely contain and protect
the M16 from the rigours and stresses usually experienced during in-
ternational shipment. Specially designed mouldings cushion and
support the M16, while also providing space to incorporate and pro-
tect the optional RM16 and PSU. Space is provided to safely include
additional M16 specific items.
The M16 packaging contains:
■1 x M16
■1 x set of rack mounting ears + fitting screws
■1 x IEC mains cable (either fitted with UK or US style plug, or
unwired depending on country of use)
■1 x BNC T-Piece Connector
■1 x BNC Terminator
■1 x operations manual
Optional RM16 if included within the M16 packaging:
■1 x optional RM16
■1 x optional RM16 power block (Wall Wart)
■1 x optional IEC mains cable (either fitted with UK or US style
plug, or unwired depending on country of use)
Please retain packaging until all items are accounted for and found
to be operating correctly.

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2.2 Operational considerations
AC mains voltage
The M16 is intended for use throughout the world and therefore the
internal power supply allows operation through the following AC
mains voltages:
Mains voltage: 90v - 250v AC
Mains frequency: 50/60Hz
AC mains connection
The rear panel of the M16 houses the AC mains inlet on an IEC style
connector. The mains cable supplied with the M16 is also fitted with
a moulded IEC connector. Excluding UK and USA models, no plug
has been fitted to this mains lead, therefore this will need to be wired
(see 1.1.Mains Cable). Obtain professional advice from a qualified
electrician if unsure.
2.3 Cleaning
Before cleaning the M16, make sure the unit is switched off and the
mains plug is removed from the socket.
Only use a mildly damp cloth to clean the M16. Never use any do-
mestic or commercial cleaning agents as these can cause damage
to external surfaces and components.
2.4 Installation
When fixing the M16 into any 19” rack mount frame, take into ac-
count the stresses that can be exerted on the rack ears if they are
the only means of support. Damage to the chassis could especially
occur during transportation if the M16 is not supported on rails within
a flight case. CADAC strongly recommends that as well as fixing the
M16 to the frame via the rack ears, support rails also be employed.

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3 The M16 Microphone Amplifier
3.1 M16 Front panel
1. Channel Number
2. Signal Overload Indicator
3. Signal Present Indicator
4. PFL Switch
5. Mute Switch
6. Headphone Socket
7. Headphone Level Control
8. PFL Level Meter
9. Channel Gain
10.Gain Increment Switch
11.Gain Decrement Switch
12.Polarity Reverse
13.Pad Switch
14.Phantom Power Switch
15.High Pass Filter Switch
16.Remote Indicator
17.USB Indicator
18.USB port
FIG 3-1. M16 front panel layout
1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11
16 17 12 13 14 15 7 6
18

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3.2 M16 Rear Panel
1. Mains Inlet, Fuse and Power switch
2. Ground Stud
3. RS-485 Remote Communications Output Connector
4. RS-485 Remote Communications Input Connector
5. Word Clock BNC Connector
6. Word Clock Input/Output Selector Switch
7. Fibre Optic Output Connector (Tx) for MADI Output.
8. Fibre Optic Input Connector (Rx). Not Used.
9. 64/32 56/28 MADI Protocol Switch.
10.96kHz, 48kHz Sample Rate Switch.
11.PFL IN
12.PFL OUT
13.Analogue Microphone Level Input Connectors
14.Analogue Line Level Output Connectors
15.Additional Analogue Outputs on 2 x 37-Way D-sub Connectors
FIG 3-2. M16 rear panel layout
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 14
11 15 12 13

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3.3 Connecting up your M16
3.3.1 Mains power
Make sure that your IEC power connector is wired correctly (see 1.1
Mains Cable).
Fit the IEC cable to the rear power connector on the M16, making
sure that it is fitted securely and the cable is stress free.
3.3.2 Ground stud
The M16 has been designed to fully comply and exceed current
EMC directives (immunity from electro-magnetic radiation and radio
frequency interference). However, for optimum performance it is
also important to take into consideration the entire audio system and
minimize the potential for excessive ground loops occurring between
equipment and interference being induced within audio cabling.
A Ground Stud is provided on the rear panel of the M16 to allow con-
nection to other audio devices in order to minimize ground poten-
tials, as well as providing a connection point for the use of Parallel
Earth Conductors, which can reduce induced noise within audio ca-
bling by up to 80% if used correctly.
System wiring and grounding techniques fall well outside the scope
of this User Manual, however, there are a number of reference
sources available. More information on this topic can also be found
on the Cadac Sound Check Zone at www.cadac-sound.com.
3.3.3 Audio Connections
Inputs
Connect the microphone input cables to the respective XLR-3F con-
nectors on the rear panel of the M16, making sure that all the con-
nectors mate securely.
Analogue Outputs
Each channel is provided with an active 3-way splitter. One set of
outputs (channels 1 - 16) is available on XLR-3M connectors, while
the remaining two sets of outputs are available on two 37-way D-sub
connectors (female). For D-sub wiring details, please see Connec-
tor wiring in Appendices.
NOTE: All three outputs are balanced and designed to drive
over long cable lengths in excess of 500m, with little degrada-
tion in audio performance. The three outputs are level compen-
sated, whereby if one leg is shorted to ground, the other leg
doubles its amplitude to compensate.

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MADI
See MADI Output, 3.6 MADI Output, for details on using the MADI
digital audio interface.
3.3.4 Power On
Power on the M16 using the main power switch located on the rear
panel adjacent to the IEC connector.
NOTE: The M16 retains the latest settings of every microphone
parameter in non-volatile memory. Therefore these settings are
not lost when the unit is not powered and are automatically re-
called when power is applied.
NOTE REGARDING THE USE OF I/O CABLES: The overall per-
formance of the entire audio system is determined by the qual-
ity of the audio cables used. Make sure that microphone and
line level audio cables are of high quality with proper shielding
in place. When using a multi-core snake, CADAC recommend
the use of individually shielded twisted pairs with an overall
braided shield.
3.4 Standalone operation
In standalone operation, all controls are accessed via the front panel
Channel Control Section (see 3.4.4 Channel Control Section).
3.4.1 Channel LED indicators
LEDs are provided on each channel for visual indication of signal
present and signal overload conditions.
The red Signal Overload LED illuminates when the channel signal
level reaches +18dBu, giving ample warning of a potential overload
condition with at least 3dB of headroom to spare. The signal is
sourced pre MUTE / post HPF.
The green Signal Present LED illuminates when the audio signal on
that specific channel exceeds -36dBu. The signal is sourced pre
MUTE / post HPF.
3.4.2 PFL switch
An internal balanced PFL bus is provided and can be accessed via
the front panel headphone socket as well as on the rear panel
mounted 1/4” TRS balanced PFL OUT output socket. PFL selection
is via 16 PFL switches located on the front panel. These switches il-
luminate when enabled. See 3.7 Monitoring the PFL bus on multiple
M16 units for further information.
The PFL switches are also used to assign the Channel Control Sec-
tion to the desired microphone channel (see 3.4.7 Channel Control
Section Parameters).

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3.4.3 MUTE switch
16 MUTE switches are also provided to allow the operator to mute
any of the 16 microphone channels. When enabled, these switches
are illuminated red.
3.4.4 Channel Control Section
The M16 Channel Control Section provides complete control over all
microphone channel parameters.
While it is possible to control a single channel, the M16 also provides
the ability to quickly select and simultaneously control multiple chan-
nels.
3.4.5 Single Channel Selection
Using the bank of PFL switches, select the channel that requires al-
teration. This assigns the Channel Control Section to the selected
microphone channel.
Example:
Control of Channel 5 parameters
Select channel 5’s PFL switch. The PFL switch will illuminate and the
Channel Control Section will be assigned to channel 5.
3.4.6 Multiple Channel Selection
Using the bank of PFL switches, select the first channel that requires
the parameter change(s). Keeping this switch pressed, select the
other channels that are required to be simultaneously controlled. All
the selected PFL switches will illuminate.
NOTE: Once two or more channels are selected, the ‘x’ indica-
tor located at the bottom of the Channel Gain Indicator in the
Channel Control Section is illuminated. This indicates that mul-
tiple channels are now being controlled via the Channel Control
Section.
Example:
Selecting Channels 1 to 5 for multi-channel control
Press and hold the PFL switch for channel 1. While holding down
channel 1 PFL switch, select channels 2, 3, 4 and 5 PFL switches.
All five PFL switches are now illuminated as is the ‘x’ indicator in the
Channel Control Section.
Clearing multiple channel selections
To clear a multiple channel selection, simply press any PFL switch.
NOTE: When either a single or multiple channel selection is
made, it is possible to monitor the channel(s) via the head-
phone socket or the rear panel PFL OUT output connector.

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3.4.7 Channel Control Section Parameters
The Channel Control Section consists of the following features:
■PFL Level
■Channel Gain
■Increment and Decrement Switches
■Phase Reverse Switch
■Pad Switch
■Phantom Power Switch
■High Pass Filter (Low Rumble Filter) Switch
■Headphone Socket and Level Control
PFL Level
Any selection of the PFL switches on the front panel will route the se-
lected channel or channels to the PFL bus. A mono sum level indi-
cation is provided on the 20-segment PFL meter. The meter scale is
from -36dBu to +21dBu in 3dB increments with yellow LEDs as-
signed from -36dBu to +6dBu and red LEDs from +9dBu to +21dBu.
Channel Gain Indicator
The Channel Gain Indicator displays the gain setting for the selected
channel or group of channels. Gain is controlled in 5dB steps via the
Increment and Decrement switches to the right of the Gain Indicator.
NOTE: When multiple channels are selected, the ‘x’ indicator at
the bottom of the Channel Gain Indicator is illuminated.
Increment and Decrement Switches: Inc Dec
Use these controls to set the gain of the selected channel(s).
Pressing Inc increases the current gain setting by 5dB up to a max-
imum of 60dB
Pressing Dec decreases the current gain setting by 5dB to the min-
imum gain setting of 10dB
NOTE: The microphone amplifier employs circuitry to minimize
any unpleasant clicks when altering the gain setting.
Polarity Reverse Switch: Rev
Enabling the Rev switch reverses the polarity of the selected micro-
phone channel(s).
Pad Switch: Pad
Enabling the Pad switch attenuates the selected microphone chan-
nel(s) by -20dB. This is useful if feeding the M16 with very high line
level signals, although the M16 can accept +11dBu line level signals
at minimum gain (+10dB).