Comrex Matrix User manual

Matrix Product Manual
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MATRIX POTS/ISDN/WIRELESS CODEC
1 .........INTRODUCTION......................................................................................... 6
........................MATRIX FEATURES ........................................................................ 6
........................PORTABLE UNIT INCLUDES ............................................................... 6
........................RACKMOUNT UNIT INCLUDES ............................................................ 6
........................ABOUT THE ALGORITHM ................................................................. 7
........................WHAT COMES WITH A MATRIX? ....................................................... 7
........................UPGRADES .................................................................................. 7
........................OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ....................................................... 7
2..........MATRIX MENU SELECTION TREES & FUNCTION KEY USAGE ................................. 8
3..........DIAGRAMS AND DESCRIPTIONS OF CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS .......................... 11
........................PORTABLE - TOP SURFACE DIAGRAM.................................................. 11
........................PORTABLE - DESCRIPTION OF TOP SURFACE......................................... 12
........................PORTABLE - REAR PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION.............................. 14
........................PORTABLE - SIDE PANEL DIAGRAM .................................................... 15
........................PORTABLE - DESCRIPTION OF SIDE PANEL ........................................... 16
........................RACKMOUNT - FRONT PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION ......................... 17
........................RACKMOUNT - REAR PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION ........................... 18
4..........SETTING UP THE MATRIX ........................................................................... 20
........................POWER CONNECTIONS .................................................................. 20
........................TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS .............................................................. 20
........................AUDIO CONNECTIONS - RACKMOUNT ................................................. 20
........................AUDIO CONNECTIONS - PORTABLE .................................................... 22
........................ADJUSTING THE OUTPUT MIX .......................................................... 23
........................ABOUT UNBALANCED CONNECTIONS .................................................. 23
5..........CONFIGURING THE MATRIX ......................................................................... 24
........................POWER UP SEQUENCE ................................................................... 24
........................SETTING THE MAXRATE.................................................................. 24
........................PROGRAMMING QDIAL ................................................................... 26
........................MODEM MONITOR........................................................................ 26
........................AUTO ANSWER ............................................................................. 26
........................TONE/PULSE DIALING .................................................................... 27
........................AUDIO CODING SELECTION ............................................................. 27
6..........PLACING A CALL FROM THE MATRIX .............................................................. 28
........................DIALING FROM THE KEYPAD ............................................................ 28
........................DIALING WITH QDIAL .................................................................... 29
........................ANSWERING A CALL MANUALLY ........................................................ 30
........................DIALING FROM AN EXTERNAL PHONE................................................. 30
........................LAST NUMBER REDIAL ................................................................... 30
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT.)
........................HANGING UP THE CALL.................................................................. 31
........................DROPPING THE CONNECT RATE DURING A CALL ................................. 31
........................PLAIN TELEPHONE MODE VS. TELCELL MODE...................................... 32
........................USING THE TELCELL MODULE.......................................................... 32
........................ENTERING PLAIN TELEPHONE MODE USING THE TELCELL MODULE ........... 33
........................ENTERING CELLULAR HANDS-FREE MODE USING THE TELCELL MODULE .... 34
........................TELCELL MODULE CONNECTIONS...................................................... 34
7..........USING STORE AND FORWARD....................................................................... 35
........................ABOUT STORE AND FORWARD .......................................................... 35
........................ENTERING STORE AND FORWARD ...................................................... 35
........................STORE AND FORWARD STATUS DISPLAY DEFAULT SETTINGS ..................... 36
........................EXITING STORE & FORWARD MODE.................................................. 36
........................STORE AND FORWARD OPERATION .................................................... 37
........................PLAYING BACK RECORDED AUDIO .................................................... 38
........................SENDING A STORE AND FORWARD AUDIO CUT ..................................... 38
........................DIALING USING QDIAL .................................................................. 38
........................DIALING MANUALLY FROM KEYPAD ................................................... 39
........................DIALING WITH AN EXTERNAL PHONE ................................................. 39
........................RECEIVING A STORE AND FORWARD AUDIO CUT ................................... 40
........................SENDING/RECEIVING STATUS ............................................................ 40
........................PLAYING A RECEIVED STORE AND FORWARD AUDIO CUT ........................ 41
........................SETUP FOR STORE & FORWARD........................................................ 42
........................PLAY/RECORD SETUP..................................................................... 43
........................SEND/RECEIVE SETUP .................................................................... 43
........................WIRELESS SETUP........................................................................... 43
........................STORE AND FORWARD USING WIRELESS .............................................. 44
8..........MATRIX GSM WIRELESS OPERATION............................................................. 44
........................ABOUT THE GSM MODULE ............................................................ 44
........................ABOUT GSM .............................................................................. 45
........................ABOUT GSM DATA ...................................................................... 45
........................OTHER TYPES OF WIRELESS DATA ..................................................... 46
........................GSM MODULE OPERATION ............................................................ 46

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SECTION
9..........ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS ............................................................................. 47
........................TEST.......................................................................................... 47
........................ANCILLARY DATA .......................................................................... 47
........................CONTACT CLOSURES ...................................................................... 48
........................MATRIX CONTROL AND DATA SIGNALS ............................................... 48
........................STL BACKUP MODE ..................................................................... 49
........................STL BACKUP MODE FOR MATRIX RACKMOUNT .................................... 49
........................STL BACKUP MODE FOR MATRIX PORTABLE ....................................... 49
10........HIDDEN MENU ........................................................................................ 50
........................REVISION INFORMATION ................................................................. 50
........................MODEM COUNTRY CODES .............................................................. 51
........................RENEGOTIATION & RETRAIN OPTIONS................................................ 51
........................FLUSH MODEM ............................................................................ 52
........................STL BACKUP............................................................................... 52
........................DIAL TONE ................................................................................. 53
........................SYMBOL RATE .............................................................................. 53
........................ISDN ....................................................................................... 53
........................GSM14 .................................................................................... 53
11........UPGRADING THE MATRIX............................................................................ 54
........................HOW TO UPGRADE THE MATRIX CONTROL PROCESSOR.......................... 54
12........HOW TO ACHIEVE OPTIMUM MATRIX PERFORMANCE ......................................... 56
13........SOME OPERATING TIPS - (STUFF YOU REALLY NEED TO KNOW!).......................... 58
........................USING LONG DISTANCE ACCESS CODES.............................................. 59
........................INTERNATIONAL AC POWER CORDS AND TELEPHONE CONNECTORS............ 60
........................DIALING THE MATRIX INTERNATIONALLY ............................................. 60
........................COMPUTER MODEMS VS. MATRIX MODEM .......................................... 61
14........TECHNICAL DETAILS................................................................................... 62
........................TROUBLESHOOTING THE MATRIX....................................................... 62
........................ABOUT ANCILLARY DATA ................................................................ 64
........................TROUBLESHOOTING THE ANCILLARY DATA CHANNEL .............................. 66
15........SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................................ 67
........................PORTABLE................................................................................... 67
........................RACKMOUNT................................................................................ 68
........................AUDIO FREQUENCY RESPONSE (PORTABLE & RACKMOUNT)..................... 68
........................PINOUTS..................................................................................... 69
........................+8 DBU JUMPERS........................................................................ 70
........................FCC REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................... 71
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT.)
APPENDIX A........MODEM LINE CHECKLIST................................................................ 72
................................... A LITTLE BACKGROUND...................................................... 72
................................... CHECKLIST ...................................................................... 73
................................... PHONE LINE 101............................................................. 75
APPENDIX B........ABOUT MIX-MINUS ...................................................................... 77
................................... “I'M USING MIX-MINUS AND I STILL HEAR AN ECHO!”.............. 78
APPENDIX C........ACCESSORIES ............................................................................... 79
................................... ISDN MODULE ............................................................... 80
................................... GSM MODULE ................................................................ 80
................................... TELCELL MODULE ............................................................. 80
................................... BATTERY KIT ................................................................... 80
APPENDIX D .......USING THE COMREX MATRIX WITH A HOTLINE OR VECTOR ..................... 81
APPENDIX E........PLAIN TELEPHONE MODE .............................................................. 82
SCHEMATICS & BLOCK DIAGRAMS

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ABOUT COMREX
Comrex has been building reliable, high quality broadcast equipment since 1961. Our products
are used daily in every part of the world by networks, stations and program producers.
Every product we manufacture has been carefully designed to function flawlessly, under
the harshest conditions, over many years of use. Each unit we ship has been individually
and thoroughly tested. Most items are available off-the-shelf, either directly from Comrex
or from our stocking dealers.
Comrex stands behind its products. We promise that if you call us for technical assistance,
you will talk directly with someone who knows about the equipment and will do everything
possible to help you.
Our toll free number in North America is 800-237-1776. Product Information, Engineering
Notes and User Reports are available on the World Wide Web at http://www.comrex.com.
Our internet E-Mail address is [email protected].
WARRANTY AND DISCLAIMER
All equipment manufactured by Comrex Corporation is warranted by Comrex against defects
in material and workmanship for one year from the date of original purchase, as verified
by the return of the Warranty Registration Card. During the warranty period, we will repair
or, at our option, replace at no charge a product that proves to be defective, provided
you obtain return authorization from Comrex and return the product, shipping prepaid,
to Comrex Corporation, 19 Pine Road, Devens, MA 01432 USA. For return authorization,
contact Comrex at 800-237-1776 or 978-784-1776 or fax [phone].
This Warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by accident or misuse or as the
result of service or modification performed by anyone other than Comrex Corporation.
With the exception of the warranties set forth above, Comrex Corporation makes no other
warranties, expressed or implied or statutory, including but not limited to warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, which are hereby expressly disclaimed.
In no event shall Comrex Corporation have any liability for indirect, consequential or puni-
tive damages resulting from the use of this product.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
The Comrex proprietary code and licensed, third party proprietary code residing in and oth-
erwise associated with this product are protected by copyright law and international treaties.
Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this product, or any portion of it, may result
in civil and criminal sanctions, and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
US Government Restricted Rights - Use, duplication, or disclosure by the US Government
is subject to restrictions set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data
and Computer Software clause at DFARS (48 CFR) 252.227-7013 or subparagraphs (c)(1)
and (2) of the Commercial Computer Software - Restricted Rights clause at FAR (48 CFR)
52.227-19, as applicable.

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SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION
MATRIX FEATURES
PORTABLE UNIT INCLUDES
RACKMOUNT UNIT INCLUDES
The Comrex Matrix in its basic form is a digital audio transmission device for ana-
log telephone lines. The Matrix allows wideband, broadcast quality audio over
normal “toll quality” telephone circuits. Here’s a short list of the Matrix’s POTS
Codec features:
♦ Full duplex FM quality (15 kHz) audio bandwidth at connect rates of
24 kb/s and above.
♦ Full duplex audio scales from 12.7 kHz to 4.7 kHz at connect rates
of 21.6 kb/s to 9.6 kb/s.
♦ Separate “Voice Mode” allows 7 kHz audio with a 300 BAUD ancillary
data channel and extra forward error correction.
♦ Easy to use dialing and configuring interface.
♦ Available in portable or rackmount chassis.
♦ Automatically connects at highest possible rate supported by
telephone connection.
♦ Monitors line quality and renegotiates should line degrade.
♦ Ability to “store and forward” 9 3/4 minutes of audio. A full fidelity feed
may be recorded and sent over a low bitrate circuit to be played later
in non-real time.
♦ Two tally closures (one on connection, one triggered by the user).
♦ Ability to work with a Comrex BlueBox, HotLine or Vector.
♦ Ability to store 19 telephone numbers and last number dialed in
nonvolatile memory.
♦ Short coding delay (100 mS) allows seamless two-way conversation.
♦ Accessory slot allows insertion of optional modules, adapting the Matrix
for use on other circuits such as ISDN and GSM.
♦ Optional battery runs Matrix for up to 7 hours.
Two channel microphone mixer (1 channel mic/line selectable).
Additional fixed level tape input.
One headphone output (adjustable mix of send/receive audio).
One balanced line level audio out (adjustable mix of send/receive audio).
Rugged, lightweight plastic chassis with built-in handle.
Accessory slot allows insertion of optional modules, adapting the Matrix
for use on other circuits such as ISDN, GSM and allowing plain telephone
calls on POTS lines or wireless phones equipped with headset jacks.
Space efficient 1U rack.
Internal universal AC power supply.
Balanced line level audio input/output.
Ability to dial on contact closure.
Ability to remotely control contact closure.
Accessory slot for ISDN adapter board
Future upgrade: Remote control of Matrix functions through TCP/IP protocol.

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WHAT COMES WITH
A MATRIX?
UPGRADES
OPERATIONAL
CONSIDERATIONS
ABOUT THE ALGORITHM The Matrix utilizes audio coding which is uniquely suited to the task of mov-
ing high quality audio along the narrow data channels provided by analog
modems. The Matrix algorithm draws on principles from various previous
coding methods yet doesn't incorporate the long processing delays (which
equates to audio delay) that plague other coding schemes. While the Matrix
algorithm does not provide true “transparency” to the reconstructed audio,
much work has been done to place the artifacts that do exist in a range where
they will be less irritating to the listeners.
The following items are shipped with a new Matrix:
(1) Comrex Matrix POTS codec (Portable or Rackmount)
(1) AC Power module with AC cord (Rackmount unit has only AC cord)
(1) RJ11C modular telephone cord
(1) Operating manual
(1) Warranty card (Please fill out and return)
A substantial portion of the functions and features of the Matrix is software
driven, allowing upgrades to these units by a simple exchange of EPROMs or
reprogramming of existing EPROMs. Many software updates may be down-
loaded from the Comrex website and performed by connecting your Matrix
to a com port on your PC. (See Section 11 for instructions.) We will keep our
customers apprised of software updates and make these available at no charge.
In order to assure that we will be able to contact you, please return the war-
ranty card with complete address and contact information.
For use on POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service), two Comrex POTS codecs are
required — one at each end of the telephone line. (Any combination of Matrix,
BlueBox, HotLine or Vector will work.) POTS codecs require moderately high
quality telephone lines on each end of the call and may have performance
issues if the telephone connection has excessive noise, hum or crosstalk. As a
general rule, avoid connecting through in-house PABX systems. A direct, outside
line should be used for best performance. For further details on telephone
quality issues, we suggest you read the “Modem Line Checklist” in Appendix A
on page 72. Also, because the Matrix’s algorithm creates a small coding delay,
it is necessary to send a “Mix Minus” feed from the studio back to the remote
site. For more on Mix-Minus, refer to Appendix B on page 77.
For wireless circuits the Matrix has two options. The first is the ability to im-
prove the quality of “real-time” audio on GSM wireless service, please refer
to Section 8. Matrix GSM Wireless Operation on pages 44-46. Secondly, the
portable Matrix can send “unenhanced” audio through the headset jack of a
wireless phone using the optional TelCell module. (See pages 32-34.)

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Enter Dial Keypad Dial Number
Ext Phone Dial w/Ext Phone--<Enter>when Ringing ...connecting
Tel/Cell Module* Phone Line--Phone Mode Active Enter = Off Hook
Cell Phone--Dial From Cellphone Cancel = Exit
Answ connecting.....
Test Voice 33.6 - 9.6 kb/s Loopback active
Music 33.6 - 9.6 kb/s Loopback active
HotLine 33.6 - 12 kb/s Loopback active
GSM 9.6 or 14.4 kb/s Loopback active
Cong Pgm Qdial Enter Qdial#: 01-19 Enter Phone Number
Codec Voice Mode Algorithm Selected
Music Mode Algorithm Selected
GSM Mode Algorithm Selected
Max Rate 33.6 - 9.6 kb/s Maximum Rate Stored
More Auto Ans On
Off
6 Rings
Dialing Tone Dialing
Pulse Dialing
ModMon Modem Monitor On
Modem Monitor Off
Levels
(Rack Matrix Only) Input Level 0dBu, +4dBu, -10dBu
Output Level 0dBu, +4dBu, -10dBu
Store & Forward (See Page 9 for Menu Selection Tree)
Qdial Enter Qdial#: 01-19 (Note: For last number redial, enter 00)
*If Tel/Cell Module does not appear, please refer to page 32 for details.
Max24 AA MM Music
Press Enter or Qdial
MATRIX MAIN STATUS DISPLAY
SECTION 2. MATRIX MENU SELECTION TREE

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STORE & FORWARD MENU SELECTION TREE
Enter Dial No Audio Stored (if no audio cut is in memory)
or Keypad ... Dial Number: .... Dialing
Ext Phone ... Dial with Ext. Phone <Enter> when Ringing
Rec Erase All Audio Data 1=Yes Cancel=No (if audio cut is in memory)
or Enter = Start Record Qdial = Pause
Play No Audio Stored (if no audio cut is in memory)
or Playing 0:01
Setup Play/Rec Play S/F Audio
Rec S/F Audio
Send/Rcv Receive S/F Audio
Send S/F Audio
Exit S/F ... reverts back to Main POTS Status Display
Qdial ... Enter Qdial #:00-19
Secondary functions:
1. Backs out of any screens involving dialing functions.
2. Accesses the HIDDEN MENU (press key 3 times).
Secondary functions:
1. If pressed once when line is connected, modem drops one connect speed.
2. If “double clicked” when line is connected, modem performs a
complete renegotiation, without disconnecting the line.
3. Qdial=Pause in the Store & Forward mode during Record and Playback.
4. Qdial inserts two second pause in dialing string entries.
Secondary function:
1. When line is connected, sends a momentary contact closure to far end.
Secondary function:
1. Backspaces during entry of dialing strings & programming of QDIAL numbers.
HANGUP
Disconnects call.
QDIAL
Speed dials numbers
prestored in memory, in-
cluding QDIAL 00 to redial
the last number dialed.
ENTER
Initiates functions via the
menu screen.
CANCEL
Backs out of most
menus. (see HANGUP)
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY USES OF FUNCTION KEYS.

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(PRESS THE HANGUP KEY THREE TIMES FROM THE MAIN STATUS SCREEN)
Country Country Code 00-20
Reneg Reneg/Retrain On
Retrain On
None
Flush Modem Erase All Settings? Enter = Continue
More ISDN Enable ISDN Menus?
(Rack Option Only) 1=Yes Cancel=No
STL 1)Enable STL Mode
2)Disable STL Mode
Rev (Shows current software version)
Symbol Rate 1) A (Disable top rate)
2) A&B (Disable top two rates)
3) Enable ALL Rates
DialTone 1) Require DialTone
2) Ignore DialTone
GSM14 1) Enable GSM 14.4
2) Disable GSM 14.4
MATRIX “HIDDEN MENU”

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
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PORTABLE - TOP SURFACE DIAGRAM
1) BI-COLOR INPUT LEVEL INDICATOR
2) BATTERY FUNCTION LIGHT
3) REAR PANEL (SEE PAGE 14 FOR DETAILED VIEW)
4) INPUT LEVEL CONTROL 1
5) INPUT LEVEL CONTROL 2
6) HEADPHONE JACK
7) HEADPHONE LEVEL ADJUSTMENT
8) XLR LINE LEVEL OUTPUT ADJUSTMENT
9) OUTPUT MIX ADJUSTMENT
10) DIALING KEYPAD
11) FUNCTION KEYPAD
12) SIDE PANEL (SEE PAGE 15 FOR DETAILED VIEW)
13) RING/CARRIER DETECT INDICATOR
14) READY INDICATOR
15) BACKLIT LCD
SECTION 3. DIAGRAMS AND DESCRIPTIONS OF CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS
The rackmount and portable versions of the Matrix are described separately.

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This provides an indication of the audio level being fed into the Matrix. It
doesn’t mirror the receive audio in any way. Adjust the input levels so that the
green light is illuminated. This LED turns red to indicate when the limiter is
engaged on program peaks.
When this red LED is illuminated, the Matrix is operating on battery power.
Audio connectors are located on the rear panel. (See page 14 for details.)
This knob controls the input audio level for audio channel 1. Adjust the level
using this knob, making sure that the peak indicator light stays green, with
only occasional red showing for program peaks.
This knob controls the input audio level for audio channel 2. Adjust the level
using this knob, making sure that the peak indicator light stays green, with
only occasional red showing for program peaks.
This is a 3-conductor 1/4 inch headphone jack suitable for most stereo
headphones.
This knob controls the headphone jack audio level. This includes all local and
return audio. Adjust this knob until a comfortable listening level is achieved
on the headphones.
Note: A ratio of local and return audio levels may be set up using the Output
Mix Adjustment. (See #9 below.)
This knob controls the output audio level. This includes all local and return
audio. Adjust this knob for desired output level.
Note: A ratio of local and return audio levels may be set up using the Output
Mix Adjustment. (See #9 below.)
This knob determines the mix/ratio of local versus return audio. Adjust this
knob until a comfortable mix of local and return audio is achieved. Turning
the knob counterclockwise gives more local audio. Turning the knob clock-
wise gives more return audio.
Use this keypad to place calls, either in Matrix or POTS Mode. Numbers may
also correspond to menu options.
These keys provide “one touch” access for several major functions such as
Qdial and hangup. Some of the keys also have secondary functions, noted
under the key.
PORTABLE - DESCRIPTION OF TOP SURFACE
BI-COLOR INPUT LEVEL
INDICATOR
BATTERY FUNCTION LIGHT
REAR PANEL
INPUT LEVEL CONTROL 1
INPUT LEVEL CONTROL 2
HEADPHONE JACK
HEADPHONE LEVEL
ADJUSTMENT
XLR LINE LEVEL OUTPUT
LEVEL
OUTPUT MIX ADJUSTMENT
DIALING KEYPAD
FUNCTION KEYPAD
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

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Power, phone lines and data connections are made on this panel. (See pages
15 & 16 for details.)
When the Matrix receives an incoming call, this light will flash to indicate the
line is ringing. When the modem inside the Matrix is connected to another
compatible codec, this light will be on steadily.
This is a signal from the digital audio decoder which signifies it has locked
onto the incoming digital audio signal. This will usually light up a few seconds
after connection and go out if a retrain is necessary or if the codec “loses
sync” for any reason. A contact closure which follows this indication is avail-
able on the side panel.
Displays all status and menu options.
SIDE PANEL
RING/CARRIER DETECT
(CD) INDICATOR
READY INDICATOR
BACKLIT LCD
12
13
14
15

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PORTABLE - REAR PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION
16) XLR LINE LEVEL OUTPUT
17) INPUT 2 MICROPHONE CONNECTOR
18) INPUT 1 MIC/LINE CONNECTOR
19) INPUT 1 MIC/LINE SWITCH
20) TAPE INPUT -10 DBU MINI JACK
This 3-pin male XLR output provides a mix of codec return and local audio
from the Matrix. It is a balanced, line level audio feed, adjustable via the LINE
OUTPUT and OUTPUT MIX knobs on the top surface, shown in #8 and #9 of the
top surface diagram on page 11. This output is suitable for connection to a
mixer, PA system or additional headphones.
This 3-pin female XLR connector is designed to accept a balanced, microphone
level audio feed. The input level for this channel is adjustable via the knob
shown in #5 of the Top Surface diagram on page 11.
This 3-pin female XLR connector is designed to accept a balanced, microphone
or line level audio feed. This input level is adjustable via the top surface con-
trol shown in #4 of the Top Surface diagram. The level is selectable between
nominal mic or line level. (See #19 below.)
This switch determines whether audio input 1 is configured to receive a mi-
crophone level (-70 to -40 dBu) or line level (-10 to +10 dBu) audio input.
This 1/8 inch mini tape input is designed to accept an unbalanced, -10 dBu fixed
audio feed, allowing for easy connection to a minidisc or DAT player.
16
17
18
19
20
XLR LINE LEVEL OUTPUT
INPUT 2 MICROPHONE
CONNECTOR
INPUT 1 MIC/LINE
CONNECTOR
INPUT 1 MIC/LINE SWITCH
TAPE INPUT

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PORTABLE - SIDE PANEL DIAGRAM
21) TEL LINE JACK
22) TEL SET JACK
23) MULTI-PURPOSE PORT
24) POWER ON/OFF SWITCH
25) POWER CONNECTOR
26) CONTACT CLOSURE
27) READY CLOSURE

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21
22
23
24
25
26
27
TEL LINE JACK
TEL SET JACK
MULTIPURPOSE PORT
POWER SWITCH
POWER CONNECTOR
CC RECEIVE CLOSURE
READY CLOSURE
This RJ11 jack is for attaching the telephone line from the outside world to the
Matrix. Be careful what you plug into here. Some PABXs provide currents which
can damage the Matrix.
This RJ11 jack is for attaching an external telephone to the Matrix. This can be
useful for dialing complicated numbers with lots of pauses and special codes. It
can also serve to provide an audible “ring” when an incoming call is received.
Female DB-9 connector through which flash upgrades can be performed (see
page 54 for more details).
0 = off, 1 = on. These markings are screened on the rocker switch.
This is a 5-conductor DIN type connector designed to mate with the Matrix power
supply module. Be sure to attach only the power supply provided from Comrex
here.
This mini jack provides a momentary dry contact closure which triggers closed when
the Matrix is on-line and the far end sends a CC command via the keypad.
This mini jack provides a latching dry contact closure when the digital audio de-
coder achieves synchronization with an incoming digital audio signal. This contact
is closed when the green READY light below the LCD display is illuminated and is
released when the READY light goes out.
PORTABLE - DESCRIPTION OF SIDE PANEL

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RACKMOUNT - FRONT PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION
1) BACKLIT LCD
2) FUNCTION KEYPAD
3) RING/CARRIER DETECT (CD) INDICATOR
4) DIALING KEYPAD
5) READY INDICATOR
6) VU METER
Displays all status and menu options.
These keys provide “one touch” access for several major functions such as
Qdial and hangup. Some of the keys also have secondary functions which are
noted by the key. (See page 9 for more details.)
When the Matrix receives an incoming call, this light will flash to indicate the
line is ringing. When the modem inside the Matrix is connected to another
compatible codec, this light will be on steadily.
Use this keypad to place calls, either in Matrix or POTS Mode. Numbers may
also correspond to menu options.
This is a signal from the digital audio decoder which signifies it has locked
onto the incoming digital audio bitstream. This will usually light up a few
seconds after connection and go out if a retrain is necessary or if the codec
“loses sync” for any reason. A contact closure which follows this indication
is available on the rear panel.
This provides an indication of the audio level being fed into the Matrix. It
doesn’t mirror the receive audio in any way. Most users set input level so the
VU peaks just over the “0” mark, which is the yellow LED on the meter.
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BACKLIT LCD
FUNCTION KEYPAD
RING/CARRIER DETECT
(CD) INDICATOR
DIALING KEYPAD
READY INDICATOR
VU METER
1
2
3
4
5
6

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RACKMOUNT - REAR PANEL DIAGRAM & DESCRIPTION
7) IEC 320 POWER CONNECTOR/FUSE OUTLET
8) OUTPUT CONNECTOR
9) INPUT CONNECTOR
10) AUX CLOSURE
11) READY CONTACT CLOSURE
12) MULTIPURPOSE PORT
13) CC SEND CONTROL
14) CC RECEIVE CLOSURE
15) TEL LINE JACK
16) TEL SET JACK
17) ACCESSORY OPTION BACK PLATE
 







This is an IEC connector for the main power. The Matrix works on any world-
wide AC power from 100-240VAC.
This is a 3-pin male XLR connector with balanced, line level output audio.
The rackmount Matrix does not mix any local audio into this output. The only
audio heard here will be coming from the far end. The level of this output is
selectable via the menu system.
This is a 3-pin female XLR connector designed to accept balanced, line level
audio. This audio sent into the encoder on the Matrix is reflected on the front
panel VU meter. The nominal level of this input is selectable via the menu
system.
This mini jack input provides the ability to dial the phone number stored in
the QDIAL 01 position when the contact is closed. (See page 49 for more details
on using the Matrix as a backup to your STL.) The AUX CLOSURE may also be used
for future features, including select remote control functions.
IEC 320 POWER
CONNECTOR/FUSE OUTLET
OUTPUT CONNECTOR
INPUT CONNECTOR
AUX CLOSURE
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RACKMOUNT - DESCRIPTION OF REAR PANEL CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS
This mini jack provides a latching dry contact closure when the digital audio
decoder achieves synchronization with an incoming digital audio signal. This
contact is closed when the green READY light below the LCD display is illumi-
nated and is released when the READY light goes out.
Flash upgrades may be performed through this port. (See page 54 for more
details.) Future uses of this port include connection for a TCP/IP remote
controller for Matrix functions.
This mini jack allows the user remote control of the CC button on the front
keypad. When the Matrix is on-line, a closure here will send a signal to close
the CC receive relay at the far end. An asterisk will appear in the upper right
corner of the far end Matrix, indicating that the signal has been received.
This mini jack is a momentary dry contact closure which triggers closed
when the Matrix is on-line and the far end sends the CC command via the
keypad.
This RJ11 jack is for attaching the telephone line from the outside world to
the Matrix. Be careful what you plug into here. Some PABXs provide currents
which can damage the Matrix.
This RJ11 jack is for attaching an external telephone to the Matrix. This can
be useful for dialing complicated numbers with lots of pauses and special
codes. It can also serve to provide an audible “ring” when an incoming call
is received.
This plate can be removed if the optional ISDN board is installed. Connectors
for ISDN will be placed in the voids behind this plate.
READY CONTACT
CLOSURE
MULTIPURPOSE PORT
CC SEND CONTROL
CC RECEIVE CLOSURE
TEL LINE JACK
TEL SET JACK
ACCESSORY OPTION
BACK PLATE
11
12
13
14
15
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SECTION 4. SETTING UP THE MATRIX
POWER CONNECTIONS
TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS
AUDIO CONNECTIONS -
RACKMOUNT
Rackmount — Attach the supplied IEC power cable to the Matrix power
inlet. Attach the other end to AC power. The Matrix display should light up,
and you should see the introductory screen replaced shortly by the MAIN STATUS
DISPLAY. See “Power Up Sequence” on page 24.
Portable — Attach the external power supply to the connector on the side
panel marked “power.” Attach the provided AC power cord to the power sup-
ply, and connect to AC power. Turn the Matrix on using the side panel power
switch (0 = off and 1 = on). The Matrix display should light up. You will then
see the introductory screen, followed shortly by the MAIN STATUS DISPLAY. See
“Power Up Sequence” on page 24.
Rackmount and Portable — Attach the supplied telephone (RJ11) cable
to the jack on the rear/side panel of the Matrix labeled TEL LINE. Connect the
other end of the telephone cable to the telephone jack provided by the phone
company. Note: If you plan to use a PABX connection, you may damage the
Matrix by plugging it into the jack. If you’re unsure about this, better to try a
cheap telephone first before plugging in the Matrix. You can also use a small
device called a “modem saver” to test the line. These are available through
computer supply outlets and catalogs for testing phone lines before plugging
in laptop computers. Usually, any jack which will support a fax machine or
computer modem can be used with the Matrix, although use on PABXs often
results in less than optimal performance. Under rare circumstances, you may
wish to connect a telephone to the jack on the Matrix labeled TEL SET. This
will allow you to hear the telephone line ring when an incoming call comes
— or just to use the phone line for other purposes when not on-air. Also, an
external telephone may be used to dial the Matrix when the dialing functions
of the Matrix won’t fit the bill (very long, complex dialing strings with lots of
digits and prompts). But usually you’ll leave this jack unconnected.
Rackmount Input — Connect your send audio to the jack on the rear panel
labeled INPUT. This jack is designed to accept line level, balanced audio. If you
will be delivering unbalanced audio to the Matrix (not recommended), see
the section on page 23 called “About Unbalanced Connections.” The nomi-
nal input level to the Matrix is 0dBu (.775V) but can be changed to -10 and
+4 dBu via the menu. A +8 dBu level can also be selected via an internal
jumper. (See page 70.) Beyond that, you will need to adjust the level of the
device feeding the Matrix to achieve an appropriate level. Once the audio is
connected correctly, you will see the level reflected on the front panel LED
VU meter.