Clear-Com TEMPEST 2400 User manual
REFERENCE MANUAL
FOR
TEMPEST ®2400
WIRELESS INTERCOM SYSTEM
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System Reference Manual
© 2009 Vitec Group Communications Ltd. All rights reserved.
Part Number 810511Z Rev. 1
Vitec Group Communications LLC
850 Marina Village Parkway
Alameda, CA 94501
U.S.A
Vitec Group Communications Ltd
7400 Beach Drive
IQ Cambridge
Cambridgeshire
United Kingdom
CB25 9TP
Vitec Group Communications
Room 1806, Hua Bin Building
No. 8 Yong An Dong Li
Jian Guo Men Wai Ave
Chao Yang District
Beijing, P.R. China 100022
® Clear-Com, CellCom/FreeSpeak and the Clear-Com Communication Systems logo are registered trademarks
of The Vitec Group plc
Website: www.clearcom.com
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Table of Contents
Table of Contents............................................................................................................................................. 3
Important Safety Instructions......................................................................................................................... 8
A/C Power Warning........................................................................................................................................ 9
Thank you from Clear-Com.......................................................................................................................... 10
Thank you for choosing Tempest Wireless for your wireless intercom needs....................................... 10
Battery Safety................................................................................................................................................. 11
Battery Transportation.................................................................................................................................. 11
Battery Storage ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Maintenance and Care................................................................................................................................. 12
Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Temperature and Humidity....................................................................................................................... 12
Quick Start Guide........................................................................................................................................... 13
What You Will Need ..................................................................................................................................... 13
1. Connect two whip antennas onto the back of the Base Station.................................................................................13
2. Connect the power cord and Power On the Base Station. .........................................................................................13
3. Install Batteries in Beltstations ........................................................................................................................................13
4. Pair Beltstations to the Base Station..............................................................................................................................14
5. Connect Headsets to Beltstations ..................................................................................................................................14
6. Operation ...........................................................................................................................................................................14
General Description....................................................................................................................................... 15
Theory of Operation ..................................................................................................................................... 17
System Features ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Base Station ............................................................................................................................................. 19
Beltstation................................................................................................................................................. 19
Remote Transceiver ................................................................................................................................. 19
Other Items You May Need.......................................................................................................................... 20
Headsets .................................................................................................................................................. 20
DC Power input cable............................................................................................................................... 20
RF Cable to remote Antennas.................................................................................................................. 20
CAT-5 Cable for Remote Transceiver...................................................................................................... 20
Accu-Sync DB-9 Cable(s) ........................................................................................................................ 20
Connections to the Hardwired Intercom ................................................................................................... 20
XLR-3M/F for 2-Wire................................................................................................................................ 20
RJ-45 Connector Cable for 4-Wire............................................................................................................. 20
RJ-45 to RJ-12 Adapter............................................................................................................................ 20
Auxiliary IN/OUT ¼” Tip/Ring/Screen Cable ............................................................................................... 20
Stage Announce XLR-3F Cable ................................................................................................................ 21
Relay Access DB-15 Breakout Cable......................................................................................................... 21
LAN Connection RJ-45 / CAT-5 Cable ....................................................................................................... 21
Base Station ................................................................................................................................................. 21
Steps to Setup the Base Station .............................................................................................................. 21
Choose a Location ................................................................................................................................... 22
A Tempest Base Station mounted in an equipment rack. ......................................................................... 22
Base Station Location .............................................................................................................................. 22
Power Connections ...................................................................................................................................... 23
AC Power Connection .............................................................................................................................. 23
DC Power Connection (Battery) ............................................................................................................... 23
Powering On the Base Station ................................................................................................................. 23
Antenna Location ......................................................................................................................................... 24
Antenna Configuration ................................................................................................................................. 25
Maximizing System Performance and Operational Range .......................................................................... 26
Configure the Base Station .......................................................................................................................... 28
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Using the Front Panel Controls .................................................................................................................... 28
Adjust Sidetone ............................................................................................................................................ 29
Selecting a Frequency Band ........................................................................................................................ 30
Network Number and Lockout Key............................................................................................................... 31
Network Number and Lockout Key............................................................................................................... 31
Multiple Base Stations in Close Proximity .................................................................................................... 31
Set Display Mode to Static or Dynamic ........................................................................................................ 32
Name Each Station....................................................................................................................................... 32
Base Station Headset Connection and Controls.......................................................................................... 33
Set the Mic Gain for the Local Headset........................................................................................................ 33
Front Panel Lock....................................................................................................................................... 34
Call Function............................................................................................................................................. 34
GPO Relay Contacts ................................................................................................................................ 35
DB-15 Relay Wiring ........................................................................................................................................35
Tempest DB-15 Connector............................................................................................................................35
Auxiliary Input/Output ............................................................................................................................... 36
Stage Announce (SA) ............................................................................................................................... 36
Reset Memory .......................................................................................................................................... 37
Restore Factory Default............................................................................................................................ 37
Clear Memory ........................................................................................................................................... 37
Default Settings ............................................................................................................................................ 37
Wired Intercom Interface to the Base Station .............................................................................................38
Tempest Base Station Wired Configuration Controls................................................................................38
Controls..................................................................................................................................................... 39
4-Wire (Matrix) Intercom Interface................................................................................................................ 40
Steps to Configure a 4-Wire Intercom Connection ..........................................................................................................40
The top RJ-45 jacks are for Channel A or C and the bottom RJ-45 jacks are for Channel B or D.........40
Tempest 4-Wire / RJ-45 Connection.............................................................................................................40
2-Wire (Party-Line) Interface ........................................................................................................................ 41
Steps to Configure a 2-Wire Intercom Connection................................................................................... 41
Echo Cancellation Menu........................................................................................................................... 41
Auto-Null Explained .................................................................................................................................. 41
Auto-Null Procedure ................................................................................................................................. 43
Test for Echo ............................................................................................................................................ 43
Manual Null............................................................................................................................................... 43
Other Causes of Echo .............................................................................................................................. 44
2-Wire Wiring Schemes ............................................................................................................................ 45
Connecting Multiple Base Stations..............................................................................................................46
Steps to Configure a Multiple Base Station System................................................................................. 47
Audio Connections for Multiple Base Stations ............................................................................................. 47
When an external hardwired intercom system is NOT present: ............................................................... 47
When an external 2-Wire hardwired intercom system IS present: ........................................................... 47
Accu-Sync.......................................................................................................................................................49
Three Base Stations Accu-Synced...............................................................................................................49
BASESYNC IN.................................................................................................................................................49
Accu-Sync - DB-9 Connector........................................................................................................................49
Master Mode................................................................................................................................................. 50
Special RF Considerations with Multiple Base Stations............................................................................... 51
Multi-System Tempest Technology .............................................................................................................. 52
Base Station Controls................................................................................................................................... 54
Front Panel Left ............................................................................................................................................ 54
1- Local Headset Connector ..................................................................................................................... 54
2- Talk Button and LED ............................................................................................................................ 54
3- Call Button ............................................................................................................................................ 54
4- Mic Kill Button....................................................................................................................................... 54
5- Local Headset Channel LEDs A-D ....................................................................................................... 54
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
6- Peak LEDs ........................................................................................................................................... 54
7- Volume Control..................................................................................................................................... 55
8- Menu Button ......................................................................................................................................... 55
9- Enter Button ......................................................................................................................................... 55
10- Buttons 1 - 5 ....................................................................................................................................... 55
11- LCD .................................................................................................................................................... 55
Operational Mode Base Station LCD ........................................................................................................... 55
Front Panel Right ......................................................................................................................................... 56
1 2-Wire (TW) Intercom Type Slide Switches A/B & C/D......................................................................... 56
2- Wired Intercom Channel Select (SEL) Button...................................................................................... 56
3- Channel (CHAN) LEDs ........................................................................................................................ 56
4- 2-Wire/4-Wire Select (SEL) Button ...................................................................................................... 56
5- 2-Wire/4-Wire LEDs ............................................................................................................................. 56
6- IN Level Control ................................................................................................................................... 57
7- OUT Level Control ............................................................................................................................... 57
8- USB Connector .................................................................................................................................... 57
9- Beltstation Program Connector ............................................................................................................ 57
10- Power ON/OFF Switch....................................................................................................................... 57
Rear Panel Left ............................................................................................................................................ 58
1- AC Power Input Connector .................................................................................................................. 58
2- DC Power Input Connector .................................................................................................................. 58
3- Antenna Connector .............................................................................................................................. 58
4- Intercom Channel A/B/C/D Connectors ............................................................................................... 58
5- RJ-45 4-Wire Intercom A/B/C/D Connectors ....................................................................................... 58
Rear Panel Right .......................................................................................................................................... 58
1- SA (Stage Announce) Connector......................................................................................................... 59
2- Aux IN Connector................................................................................................................................. 59
3- Aux OUT Connector............................................................................................................................. 59
4- Base Sync IN Connector...................................................................................................................... 59
5- Base Sync OUT Connector.................................................................................................................. 59
6- Local Area Network (LAN) RJ-45 Connector ....................................................................................... 59
7- Relay Connector .................................................................................................................................. 59
8- Antenna Connector .............................................................................................................................. 59
9- Remote Transceiver RJ-45 Connector ................................................................................................ 59
Base Station Menu....................................................................................................................................... 60
Remote Transceiver....................................................................................................................................... 62
Setup the Transceiver .................................................................................................................................. 62
Bottom view of the transceiver..................................................................................................................... 63
Transceiver controls..................................................................................................................................... 63
RX LED..................................................................................................................................................... 63
TX LED ..................................................................................................................................................... 63
SYNC LED................................................................................................................................................ 63
CONFIG LED............................................................................................................................................ 63
Base Station Link RJ-45 Connector ......................................................................................................... 63
Power LED ............................................................................................................................................... 63
Threaded Mounting Holes ........................................................................................................................ 63
Beltstation..................................................................................................................................................... 64
Configure the Beltstation by the Beltstation Menu ................................................................................... 64
Configure the Beltstation by the Base Station Interface .......................................................................... 64
Configure by the PC Interface .................................................................................................................. 65
Beltstation Setup .......................................................................................................................................... 66
Steps to Setup the Beltstations ................................................................................................................ 66
Battery Selection and Installation................................................................................................................. 66
Charging the Lithium-Polymer Battery ......................................................................................................... 67
Power Options .......................................................................................................................................... 67
Beltstation Power On/Off.......................................................................................................................... 67
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Pairing with a Base Station........................................................................................................................... 68
Pair Beltstation to Base Station:........................................................................................................................................ 68
Adjust Beltstation Slot............................................................................................................................... 68
Name Equipment ...................................................................................................................................... 70
Personal Preferences ............................................................................................................................... 70
Call Function............................................................................................................................................. 70
Set Mic Gain ............................................................................................................................................. 71
iSelect Roaming – Selecting a Base Station ................................................................................................ 72
Wireless ISO................................................................................................................................................. 72
Beltstation Overview..................................................................................................................................... 73
1- Volume- CH A/B and CH C/D............................................................................................................... 73
2- Stage Button......................................................................................................................................... 73
3- Menu Button ......................................................................................................................................... 73
4- Enter Button.......................................................................................................................................... 73
5- LCD....................................................................................................................................................... 73
6- CALL Button ......................................................................................................................................... 73
1- Rubberized Access Cover .................................................................................................................... 74
2- USB Mini B Connector.......................................................................................................................... 74
3- Beltstation Pairing Connector............................................................................................................... 74
1- Belt Clip ................................................................................................................................................ 74
2- Power ON/OFF Button ......................................................................................................................... 74
3- Battery Compartment ........................................................................................................................... 74
4- Headset Connector...............................................................................................................................74
Talk Button A/B and C/D........................................................................................................................... 75
Channel Indicator LEDs A/B and C/D....................................................................................................... 75
Beltstation Menu........................................................................................................................................... 76
How Do I …? ...................................................................................................................................................77
Remove Batteries from Beltstations ............................................................................................................. 77
Install the Rechargeable Battery .................................................................................................................. 77
Charge the Battery ....................................................................................................................................... 77
Install AA Alkaline Batteries.......................................................................................................................... 77
Use the 5-Bay Battery Charger .................................................................................................................... 77
Navigate the Base Station Menu .................................................................................................................. 77
Navigate the Beltstation Menu...................................................................................................................... 77
Adjust Min/Max Beltstation Volume Levels .................................................................................................. 78
From the Beltstation:................................................................................................................................. 78
From the Base Station: ............................................................................................................................. 78
Configure Stage Announce and SA Relay ................................................................................................... 78
From the Beltstation:................................................................................................................................. 78
From the Base Station: ............................................................................................................................. 78
Configure Relays for Individual Beltstations................................................................................................. 78
From the beltstation: ................................................................................................................................. 78
From the Base Station: ............................................................................................................................. 79
Use the Transceiver ..................................................................................................................................... 79
Trouble Shooting............................................................................................................................................79
Base Station ................................................................................................................................................. 79
Limited RF range ...................................................................................................................................... 79
Cannot hear one or more channels of hardwired intercom ...................................................................... 79
Headset microphone sounds distorted or cuts off parts of words ............................................................ 80
There is no audio passing when not using an external hardwired intercom system ................................ 80
There is no audio passing when using an external hardwired intercom system ...................................... 80
iSelect roaming not functioning ................................................................................................................ 80
Beltstation ..................................................................................................................................................... 81
Beltstation will not power up ..................................................................................................................... 81
Beltstation will not Pair with Base Station................................................................................................. 81
Beltstation will not log into Base Station................................................................................................... 81
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Buttons on the Beltstation do not function................................................................................................ 81
Call Function............................................................................................................................................. 82
Stage (SA) function does not work properly............................................................................................. 82
Tempest Remote Transceiver...................................................................................................................... 82
Remote Transceiver RX or TX LEDs do not light..................................................................................... 82
Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System Specifications.......................................................................... 84
Tempest 2400 Base Station Specifications................................................................................................. 85
Tempest 2400 Beltstation Specifications.................................................................................................... 86
Tempest 2400 Remote Transceiver Specifications ..................................................................................... 86
FCC Information............................................................................................................................................. 87
Contains Transmitter Module FCCID: HSW-2492....................................................................................... 87
Important FCC and Safety Information........................................................................................................ 87
I. Digital Device Statement............................................................................................................................ 87
II. Intentional Radiator Statement................................................................................................................. 87
III. RF-Exposure Statement ........................................................................................................................... 87
Tempest 2400 System Block Diagram......................................................................................................... 88
Tempest Block Diagram Continued.......................................................................................................... 89
Tempest Part Numbers.................................................................................................................................. 90
Glossary.......................................................................................................................................................... 91
Limited Warranty............................................................................................................................................ 93
Technical Support & Repair Policy.............................................................................................................. 96
Index.............................................................................................................................................................. 100
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Important Safety Instructions
The word "Caution" is the lowest of the three signal words (Caution, Warning and Danger) with "Danger" being
the highest. Therefore, whenever the word "Caution" is used, it may be replaced with either of the higher rated
signal words; "Warning" or "Danger:
a) DANGER – indicates a situation which, when not avoided, results in death or severe injury;
b) WARNING – indicates a situation which, when not avoided, has the potential to result in death or
severe injury;
c) CAUTION – indicates a situation which, when not avoided, results or has the potential to result in
minor injury.
•WARNING – To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.
•Do not expose the apparatus to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, on the apparatus.
•The base station shall be connected to a mains socket outlet having a protective earthing connection.
•Install the base station such that the appliance coupler (AC power inlet) is readily accessible and
operable.
Read these instructions. Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Install in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarizing or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or
third prong is provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician
for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in
any way, such as if the power-supply cord has been damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into
the apparatus, or if the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
A/C Power Warning
Users should exercise extreme care when working with electricity. Additional care should be used
when working with electricity outdoors, in inclement weather. When working outdoors, or near water always
connect the system into a ground-fault interrupting circuit.
There are no user serviceable parts inside the Tempest base station, Transceiver, or beltstation. Opening
the case may expose dangerous electrical components, and will void the warranty.
ALERT SYMBOL – Indicates important information.
CAUTION SYMBOL – Indicates a potential to damage equipment.
DANGER SYMBOL – indicates a potential safety hazard.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Thank you from Clear-Com
We at Clear-Com want to thank you for purchasing a Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System. We have
made every effort to build a reliable, intuitive wireless intercom system that easily interfaces with your
existing equipment, and provides the same functionality that you expect from your hard-wired intercom
equipment.
One of our goals in the design of was that it should work the way you think it should work – that is, it
should be intuitive and similar to other equipment that you may already use. You will be able to begin
using your new Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System with nothing more than the Quick Start Guide.
However, to fully benefit from the available features, please read this manual carefully.
We want Tempest to make your job easier and your experience to be positive. To successfully familiarize
yourself with the many diverse and powerful features Tempest offers, it is crucial that you acquaint
yourself with the manual. Your time spent will help you get the most from your Tempest Wireless Intercom
by making setup easy and interfacing to your existing equipment, fast.
We are committed to providing you with a high quality product that will deliver years of trouble free
service. Should you experience any problem with your Tempest Wireless equipment, whether it is a
warranted problem, or service after you have owned the system for several years, we will be there to take
care of you.
Thank you for choosing Tempest Wireless for your wireless intercom needs.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Battery Safety
Battery Transportation
Rechargeable lithium batteries are subject to special regulation by U.S. and International
laws, particularly regarding transportation on passenger aircraft. However, individual
batteries installed in consumer electronics are not restricted, provided there are only the
correct numbers and types of batteries as may be needed to operate the electronic
equipment.
Your Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System includes rechargeable lithium-polymer batteries that
power the beltstations. To insure that there is no violation of U.S or international laws, and to ensure your
own safety, always:
oTransport rechargeable lithium batteries installed in the equipment they are intended to power.
oTransport spare batteries in a padded case, separated from one another.
oNever transport your rechargeable lithium batteries bundled together.
oNever transport more than 12 lithium batteries in a single package.
Lithium-polymer batteries include a chemistry that is intended to overcome the dangers associated with
lithium ion batteries. In addition, the batteries that accompany your Tempest Wireless system include
protective circuits to further reduce the possibility of a dangerous reaction associated with charging or
discharging beyond safe limits. With reasonable care you can expect many years of safe and reliable
power from your batteries.
Tempest’s batteries are not subject to transport regulations of dangerous goods because they fulfill the
following regulatory provisions:
oADR 188
oIATA A45
oIMDG 188
Battery Storage
Long term storage of batteries at maximum charge can result in permanent loss of capacity.
For long term storage of batteries, charge/discharge the batteries to approximately 60% of capacity.
Batteries stored for longer than one year should be recharged to 60%, annually.
Trickle charging is not recommended due to the very low self discharge rate of the batteries.
As with all batteries:
oDo not burn.
oDo not expose batteries to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or other heat sources.
oCAUTION – Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or
equivalent type.
oProperly dispose of used batteries promptly.
oKeep away from children.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning
Generally, the Tempest Wireless hardware should be cleaned only with a damp cloth. A soft cloth with
rubbing alcohol may be used to wipe the units, if more than water is needed. Never spray solvents or
chemicals onto the units.
Because of Tempest’s weather resistant design it is not highly susceptible to dust or airborne
contaminants. However, all electronic devices can be susceptible to particulate contamination. If exposed
to an extremely dusty environment, contact an authorized Tempest service center for internal cleaning.
Temperature and Humidity
Ideally, all electronics should be stored and used in a controlled environment with moderate temperature
and humidity. Tempest components are designed to be very durable, and can tolerate a wide range of
environmental conditions.
Install the base station in a location where it will not be exposed to extreme weather conditions. Protect
the unit against dust or moisture. Always protect any AC power connections from the elements with safety
in mind.
For more extreme environmental conditions, the base station can remain in a secure location with
antennas for the base station located remotely and connected by low-loss 50 Ohm coax cable, or the
optional Remote Transceiver can be used.
The Tempest Remote Transceiver is weather resistant, with gaskets intended to prevent moisture entry
from the top and sides. The CAT-5 cable connection on the bottom is not water tight. If it is to be used in
an environment subject to blowing rain, snow, fog or high humidity, protect the transceiver with a cover
that will not interfere with the RF.
The beltstations are designed to work wherever people work. While the beltstation design is weather
resistant, the headset XLR connector on the bottom is not watertight. beltstations should not be
submerged in liquids. Protect the battery compartment from water when changing batteries. The battery
compartment offers a route to the electronic circuitry.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Quick Start Guide
What You Will Need
-Base Station
Power cord
2 Base station antennas
1⁄8th inch male-to-male
mini-stereo pairing cable
-Beltstations - Up to 5 per base station
Lithium-Polymer battery and
Charger - 1 per beltstation
-Headsets (customer supplied)
1 per beltstation
1 per base station
1. Connect two whip antennas onto the back of the Base Station.
Select a suitable location for the base station. Tempest is a radio system, broadcasting and receiving RF
signals that are affected by physical and electronic barriers.
•Antennas should be located as high as
possible and away from all obstructions.
•When using Whip (Omni-directional)
antennas, select a location as close as
possible to the center of the area you want to
cover.
•Use alternative antenna options when the
base station is in a rack or other metal
structure, or stacked with other gear. Remote
location antenna placement of up to 1,500 ft.
can be achieved using the Tempest Remote
Transceiver. See the user manual beginning
on page 24, for more details about antenna
placement, recommended cable types, and
other antenna options.
2. Connect the power cord and Power On the Base Station.
3. Install Batteries in Beltstations
Install the Lithium‑Polymer battery in each beltstation. Be certain
that the gold contacts on the battery touch the contacts in the
battery compartment. The battery is shipped with a partial
charge, so charging will be necessary before maximum run time
will be achieved
or
Insert 3 AA alkaline batteries in the battery compartment.
Always replace the battery cover.
To power on the beltstation press and hold the power button for
approximately 2 seconds. The display will indicate “None
Selected”. Turn the power Off by holding the power button for
four seconds.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
4. Pair Beltstations to the Base Station
Pairing is a programming process that allows a base station and beltstation to
recognize each other.
•Confirm that the base station is powered on.
•Confirm that the beltstation is powered off.
•Connect the Pairing Cable from the base station to a beltstation.
•Power on the beltstation and watch the beltstation display for “Pairing
Complete”.
•Turn the beltstation off and back on again.
•Beltstation status will become visible on the base station display.
•Repeat with each beltstation.
5. Connect Headsets to Beltstations
Plug a headset into each beltstation, and the base station if desired.
6. Operation
Select a channel on the beltstations by pressing the CH A/B or CH C/D control.
Press the TALK button. A quick press latches the Talk button for “Hands Free”
operation. Press and hold the Talk button for more than 2 seconds while you talk and
the button will release in a Push‑To‑Talk manner.
Set the volume by rotating the CH A/B or CH C/D control.
You may confirm beltstation operation on the base station
Operation screen. There is a section for each beltstation. In this
illustration, each beltstation is set to talk on channel A and listen
on channels A & D, with only three beltstations in operation.
A headset may be connected to the front of the base station. Activate by pressing the TALK button.
Select a channel by pressing the volume knob.
•Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions regarding:
•Country limitation on 2.4GHz RF spectrum. See page 30 for details.
•Adjusting the Network Number and Lockout Key on page 31.
•Assigning names for equipment on page 32.
•Charging batteries on page 67.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
General Description
The Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System is a four-channel wireless intercom system that operates
with up to five wireless beltstations per base station in full duplex simultaneous operation.
Tempest operates in the non-licensed RF band at 2.4GHz. Tempest wireless systems will not interfere
with traditional wireless microphone, IFB or in-ear monitor systems that operate in the UHF TV band.
Using patented Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS), TDMA technology and proprietary Accu-
Sync™ base station coordination, up to ten 2.4GHz base stations and 50 full duplex wireless beltstations
can be operated in close proximity to each other in a single band while maintaining excellent system
performance.
Tempest provides connection to four separate hardwired intercom channels. Hardwired communication
interface is achieved via four distinct, external 2-Wire or 4-Wire intercom channels connected to the base
station. Tempest is compatible with Clear-Com®, RTS®, Telex®and most other 2-Wire (TW) intercom
systems, 4-Wire intercoms, and other devices. You can select one type of 2-Wire hardwired intercom
system to operate on channels A and B, and channels C and D can be enabled for a different type of 2-
Wire intercom system.
In addition, Tempest base stations offer a Stage Announce (SA) output with a relay closure contact
(GPO). This is ideal for use with Public Address Systems (PA), city-wide IFB transmitters or virtually any
application that can be triggered with a General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO).
Each of up to five wireless beltstations per base station has a unique audio path (i.e. point-to-point) that
delivers an individualized, mix minus signal to each beltstation in the system. Therefore each beltstation
can monitor a unique mix of intercom channels and other audio sources.
Each wireless beltstation can simultaneously monitor and/or talk on two of the four hardwired intercom
channels. Each wireless beltstation user may select between channels A or B and C or D. This true dual-
listen capability supports the preferred production work flow of TV and live-event professionals, and offers
the additional freedom and flexibility of a wireless intercom system.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Wireless beltstations are also compatible with hardwired system features such as Call and Mic Kill. In
addition to the shared Stage Announce relay, each wireless beltstation controls its own unique relay that
can be associated with additional events or actions at the beltstation.
Tempest 2400 series base station comes standard with two RP-TNC RF antenna connectors and an RJ-
45 connector for remote RF transceiver operation. Antennas can be fixed directly to the back of the base
station or remotely mounted using 50 ohm low loss RF cable from the RP-TNC connectors.
For instances where antennas must be located at a much longer distance from the base station, a
standard CAT-5 cable connects an optional Remote Transceiver unit that can be located up to 1,500 feet
away and is line-powered from the base station.
Large installations often require users to move from one work zone to another throughout the day.
Tempest handles these transitions with iSelect™ on-command roaming technology. Using the intuitive
LCD user interface on the beltstation and iSelect, a user can easily change their association with another
base station location in just a few seconds. Tempest Wireless beltstations remember the last 64 base
stations to which they have been paired.
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Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Theory of Operation
Tempest uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), and
2xTX technology. For example, on Frequency 1 the base station and each beltstation take turns
broadcasting, each with its own time slot to send audio data (TDMA). The total time for one cycle is 5
milliseconds (1/200 second). The base station and all beltstations hop (FHSS) to a different
predetermined frequency and the same audio data is sent again, but on a new frequency and on a
different base station antenna (2xTX). Therefore, each receiver has two opportunities to receive the audio
data. Duplicate data is discarded by the receiver and the process starts over with the next packet of audio
data.
Tempest is a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) based, full duplex, wireless intercom system. It is a digital,
point-to-point communications system, operating in 80MHz of spectrum in the 2.4GHz ISM frequency
band. This band allows users to operate with no license requirements in most locations. The world-wide
acceptance of the 2.4GHz band makes Tempest ideal for traveling users.
The 2.4GHz band offers many benefits. There are, however, a wide variety of technologies and users
competing for clear spectrum in this limited band. Tempest utilizes patented and proprietary technologies
to ensure a robust and reliable RF link under a wide variety of physical and RF environments. This level
of reliability is the most important attribute of any wireless system.
Tempest utilizes proprietary, Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology that has seven
U.S. patents. Multiple beltstation access is achieved by implementing Time Domain Multiple Access
(TDMA) with Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) modulation. Tempest uses an Algebraic Code - Excited Linear
Prediction (A-CELP) voice compression algorithm to reduce the bandwidth necessary for transmission
and yet maintain the highest possible voice intelligibility. In addition, this algorithm utilizes advanced lost
packet masking technology, which greatly reduces the affect of packet loss, possible in all Digital RF
transmission schemes. The loss of audio packets is managed by the algorithm to reduce the possibility of
detecting a loss of audio.
In the 2.4GHz RF band multipath interference occurs frequently. The Tempest RF scheme is dramatically
enhanced with the addition of proprietary 2xTX™ technology that transmits each data packet twice. This
technique reduces spectral efficiency by half, but greatly increases audio intelligibility by reducing the
Effective Packet Error Rate (EPER) by orders of magnitude.
The system transmits packet data every 5ms and then “hops” or changes frequency. The sequence of
frequency changes is controlled by a predetermined hopping pattern. Each hopping pattern is optimized
such that any new frequency has a quasi-orthogonal relationship to the last operating frequency. This
quasi-orthogonal frequency relationship ensures maximum frequency separation between any two
consecutive hops. Because of this, if an interfering source is present in one area of the operational band,
and interferes on a particular hop, the next hop will be in a clear area of the spectrum with the best
possible chance of transmission success.
With 2xTX technology, each audio packet is transmitted twice, each on one of two consecutive hops. The
loss of one packet transmission in a harsh RF environment is common. However, because of the quasi-
Clear-Com Communication Systems Page 18 of 100
Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
orthogonal frequency relationship of the consecutive redundant packet transmission, the potential for loss
of any single audio packet (2 consecutive data packet transmissions) is dramatically reduced. In addition,
each packet transmission is sent out from different antennas. This unique approach enables Tempest to
utilize spatial diversity, frequency diversity, time diversity and polarization diversity.
Transmission redundancy and the incorporation of various diversity techniques provide an RF system that
is robust and reliable under greatly varying operational conditions. Because of this inherent design,
Tempest delivers superior operational range and greater levels of interference and multipath fade
rejection.
Covering extremely large areas or multiple coverage locations can be problematic with traditional wireless
intercom systems. Tempest utilizes iSelect™ on-command roaming to allow users to move from one area
of coverage to another. iSelect allows Tempest users to easily choose the desired coverage area by
selecting the base station they want to communicate through. The beltstation (remote) remembers the
last 64 base stations with which it has been Paired. When a different base station is selected, the hopping
pattern and key code of the beltstation is synchronized to the selected base station and the beltstation
logs into the base station.
Audio latency is a critical factor in all digital systems. The hop duration in Tempest is intentionally kept
very short - under 5ms. This short hop duration limits the amount of data that may be lost in any one hop.
More importantly, it reduces system latency, which can cause undesirable echo. Total one-way
(beltstation to base station) system latency is less than 50ms.
Even with this short system latency, unwanted and distracting echo will occur when interfacing with
hardwired party-line intercom systems unless echo-reduction technology is implemented. Echo is
primarily the result of inefficiencies in the conversion of the two-wire signal. This condition exists in analog
systems as well, but it does not cause unwanted echo because there is no system latency delay.
Tempest uses advanced echo-cancellation algorithms to eliminate this echo.
Wireless intercom systems are often used in high-noise environments that require special design
consideration for effective operation. Tempest operates extremely well even in very high ambient noise
levels. This is primarily due to specific design criteria which allow Tempest to achieve an audio dynamic
range of greater than 94dB. This is more than double that of most other digital wireless communication
systems. This design makes Tempest ideal for use at sporting venues, concerts and other events where
unwanted noise levels are high.
Tempest offers a host of features and technology to ensure that it performs well in almost all production
environments virtually anywhere in the world with no licensing requirements or fees.
Clear-Com Communication Systems Page 19 of 100
Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
System Features
What’s In The Box
Base Station
Base station
AC Power Cord
2 X Whip Antenna ½ Wave
Pairing Cable
Documentation CD
Quick Start Guide
Beltstation
Beltstation
Lithium-Polymer Rechargeable Battery
Battery Charger/Power Supply
Remote Transceiver
Remote Transceiver
CAT-5 Cable for base station Connection - 15 Feet
2 X Whip Antenna ½ Wave
Mounting Bracket
Screws for Mounting Bracket (2)
Clear-Com Communication Systems Page 20 of 100
Tempest 2400 Wireless Intercom System
Other Items You May Need
Headsets
A Headset is required for each user (XLR-4F connectors).
Headsets may use Electret or Dynamic microphones. Most major
brand
headsets that have the correct XLR-4F connector should be
compatible, requiring nothing more than a simple Mic Gain
adjustment.
DC Power input cable
If you plan to power the Tempest base station via DC power (Battery) instead of AC power, you
will need to provide a DC Power input Cable.
RF Cable to remote Antennas
If you plan to remotely locate your antennas to improve antenna positioning and maximize range,
you must provide high quality 50 Ohm RF cables with RP-TNC connectors.
CAT-5 Cable for Remote Transceiver
If you plan to locate the Remote Transceiver more than 15 feet from the Tempest base station,
you will need to provide a longer CAT-5 cable. The maximum CAT-5 cable length recommended
is 1,500 feet.
Accu-Sync DB-9 Cable(s)
If you use multiple base stations, to use Accu-Sync base station synchronization, you will need to
provide one Accu-Sync DB-9 cable per additional base station. This cable is described under
“Accu-Sync”.
Connections to the Hardwired Intercom
XLR-3M/F for 2-Wire
If you plan to connect the Tempest base station to external 2-Wire party-line intercom systems,
you will need to provide the appropriate 3-PIN XLR cabling. This cabling is described under “2-
Wire Wiring Schemes”.
RJ-45 Connector Cable for 4-Wire
If you plan to connect the Tempest base station to external Clear-Com 4-Wire intercom systems,
you will need to provide the appropriate cabling. This is described under “4-Wire (Matrix)
Intercom Interface”.
RJ-45 to RJ-12 Adapter
If you plan to connect to an RTS 4W system you will need adapters.
Auxiliary IN/OUT ¼” Tip/Ring/Screen Cable
If you plan to connect the Tempest base station to external audio devices via the Auxiliary IN
and/or the Auxiliary OUT connectors, you will need to provide the appropriate balanced ¼” TRS
cabling.
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