Decade FM-800 User manual

HI-FI MONO/ STEREO FM TRANSMITTERS
FM-800 / FM-850
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Canadian version
(Certified under Industry Canada BETS 6 & RSS-
123 regulations)
USA version
(Certified under FCC Part 73 regulations)
1002-800/850
DECADE

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TABLE OF CONTENT
PAGE
SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATIONS ......................................... 2
A) Introduction .......................................................... 2
B) Description............................................................ 2
C) Warranty .............................................................. 2
D) Warning................................................................ 3
E) Technical specifications .......................................... 3
SECTION 2: FRONT & BACK PANEL DIAGRAMS ............................ 4
A) Front & back panel diagrams .................................. 4
B) Front & back panel description ................................ 5
SECTION 3: INSTALLATION ......................................................... 6
A) Introduction .......................................................... 6
B) Receiving inspection............................................... 6
C) Connections.......................................................... 6
D) Location of the transmitter and antenna................... 6
SECTION 4: OPERATION .............................................................. 7
A) Controls and indicators........................................... 7
B) Input and output connectors ................................... 7
C) Optimal input level 8
SECTION 5: MAINTENANCE AND PROGRAMMING ........................ 8
A) Maintenance ......................................................... 8
B) Frequency programming ......................................... 8
C) RF power level programming................................... 9
SECTION 6: APPLICATIONS ......................................................... 9
APPENDICES FM-800 technical specifications............................ 11
FM-850 technical specification................................. 12

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SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATIONS
A) Introduction
Thank you for purchasing one of the fine products made by DECADE
transmitters. Your new FM-800 or FM-850 HI-FI STEREO FM
TRANSMITTER is a very high performance and high reliability piece of
equipment. Before using it, please read this manual carefully in order to
obtain the best possible results from your transmitter. The manual
contains installation, operation and programming procedures for DECADE
FM-800 (1.8 Watts) Hi-Fi mono and FM-850 (1.8 Watts) of Hi-Fi Stereo
FM Transmitters.
B) Description
FM-800 and FM-850 transmitters include a high precision crystal
controlled VCO, a digital stereo generator (FM-850 only), an RF power
amplifier and a spurious filter. They accept left and right audio signals on
two types of input connectors:
XLR3: 600 Ohms balanced inputs, with signal levels of -4dBm min.
1/4": 6 to 10K Ohms unbalanced inputs, with signal levels of -10 dBm
min. This input is located in the XLR3 center connector.
Input level can be adjusted from the INPUT LEVEL control on the front
panel, in order to get the optimum modulation level. That useful feature
makes DECADE transmitters very versatile, allowing them to accept
audio signals from many sources.
C) Warranty
FM-800 and FM-850 transmitters come with a two (2) years warranty
that covers parts replacement and labor required to repair any defects
resulting from the manufacturing process. All claims must be authorized
by DECADE prior to shipment of a faulty unit for repairs and a copy of
the invoice must be included in the shipment. Shipping fees are assumed
by the client and DECADE will pay for the return of the repaired unit.

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D) Warning
DECADE transmitters operate on the 87.9 MHz - 107.9 MHZ commercial
FM broadcast band, so signals transmitted by them can be received on
any standard FM receiver. Thus, some care should be taken in the use
made out of these transmitters.
DECADE transmitters inc. is not responsible for any loss of profit or laws
violation during the utilization of their transmitters.
Industry Canada legislate the use of FM transmitters in Canada.
The FCC legislate the use of FM transmitters in USA.
E) Technical specifications
Refer to appendices, Technical specifications of FM-800 and FM-850.

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FM-850
HI-FI STEREO FM TRANSMITTER
TUNING
LOCK OVER NORMAL
MODULATION
STEREO BASS BOOST
POWERINPUT LEVEL
POWER
FREQUENCY (MHz) POWER (WATTS)
FM-800
HI-FI FM TRANSMITTER
TUNING
LOCK OVER NORMAL
MODULATION
POWERINPUT LEVEL
POWER
FREQUENCY (MHz) POWER (WATTS)
(FRONT & BACK PANEL DIAGRAMS)
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LEFT INPUTS
BALANCED (XLR) UNBALANCED (Jack ¼)
RIGHT INPUTSAC INPUT
DECADE TRANSMITTERS INC. SHERBROOKE (QC) CANADA
115 VAC 0.50 A
230 VAC 0.25 A
slow blow
FUSE RF OUTPUT
50 ohms
input
COMP.
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15 16 17
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FRONT & BACK PANEL DESCRIPTION
Frequency display: Displays the programmed FM frequency
(87.9 -107.9MHz) Power LED: Indicates that the AC power has been activated.
Frequency programming switches: Directly dial the FM frequency.
Input level: Controls the audio level that is applied to the
transmitter’s audio section.
Power display: Displays the programmed RF power in Watts. Power switch: Controls the AC power to the transmitter.
Power programming switches: Directly dial the RF power
extension AC input: This is where you plug the AC (furnished with the transmitter).
Fuse outlet: Main AC input fuse holder.
Modulation LEDs: Indicates the status of audio signal being
modulated. Green led (5) indicates normal modulation (100% and
less). Red led (6) indicates over modulation (100% and more).
Bass boost switch: When activated, the bass boost switch
enables a circuitry that will produce a 6dB gain from 20Hz to
150Hz.
Balanced inputs: Accept low impedance, balanced (600 Ohms),
line level audio signal. Note: The left & right inputs are
electronically mixed to produce a mono signal (FM-800).
Bass boost LED: Indicates that the bass boost is activated.
Unbalanced inputs: Accept high impedance unbalanced (10K
Ohms), line level audio signal. Note: The left & right inputs are
electronically mixed to produce a mono signal (FM-800).
Stereo switch: When activated, the stereo switch enables a
digital circuitry that will produce stereo broadcasting.
Stereo LED: Indicates that the stereo mode is activated.
RF output: This is where you plug your coax cable that will reach
your transmitting antenna (S0239 connector type, 50 Ohms
impedance). Note: It is recommended to use the best coax cable
quality and as short as possible, in a manner to avoid RF power
loss.
Tuning lock LED: Indicates that the transmitter’s parameters have
been stabilized and that the RF output section has been activated.
An intentional delay of 4 seconds will occur.
Comp Input: Optional (Not included)
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SECTION 3
INSTALLATION
A) Introduction
Installation of a DECADE FM transmitter includes the following steps:
1) receiving inspection;
2) mounting in a rack or on a shelf;
3) connection of the AC supply and audio source; location, installation and
connection of the antenna (optional).
B) Receiving inspection
Check the transmitter packaging for any damage that could have occurred in
the shipping. If you find any damage on the transmitter, keep the packaging for
claiming purposes with the freight company. Any damage should be noted on
the receiving slip at the time of delivery and the freight company advised within
5 workable days following the delivery of damaged units.
C) Connections
After installation of the transmitter in a rack or on a shelf, plug the AC cable in
the AC receptacle on the back panel, and connect to a 120 V, 60 Hz grounded
AC socket. As with any grounded electric equipment, it is not recommended to
use a DECADE transmitter without a grounded AC socket, or removing the
grounding pin on the cable, since that may result in shock hazards for the staff
in contact with it.
D) Location of the transmitter and antenna
DECADE transmitters are designed for indoor or outdoor use in a dry
environment, in temperatures ranging from -50 to 50 C. In order to obtain
optimum performances, it is recommended to place them far from any
electromagnetic noise source (transformers, motors, etc.).
Antenna should be located in a manner to comply with FCC regulations in USA
and with Industry Canada regulations in Canada.

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SECTION 4
OPERATION
A) Controls and indicators
FM-800 and FM-850: Input level is controlled by a stereo (FM-850)
potentiometer, labeled INPUT LEVEL and located on the front panel. Two leds
indicate the modulation level: NORMAL (green), witch lights up when the
modulation level is equal of 50% to 100%, witch indicates a normal modulation
state that is required for an undistorted signal at the receiving end. OVER (red),
witch lights up when the modulation level is equal or greater than 101%, witch
indicates an over modulation state and could result in distortion at the receiving
end. The OVER indicator shall never or rarely light, in order to avoid distortion.
To allow a better perception of this indicator, its holding time has been
lengthened, because of its importance.
The FM-850 transmitter can be switched from mono to stereo mode, in order
to let you use the best mode for your particular application. The stereo selector
is located on the front panel (STEREO). When in stereo mode, the STEREO
indicator lights up. In mono mode, both inputs are active (balanced or
unbalanced).
Tuning lock: This indicator (front panel for FM-800 & FM-850 models) will lite
up to show that your chosen FM frequency has been validated and that the RF
output is active. A delay of 3 to 4 seconds is necessary before the system
stabilize itself. This delay is mandatory in a manner to avoid frequency
scrambling while it is in the stabilization process.
Bass Boost: This control (FM-850 only) when activated, will produce a bass
boost of 6dB from 0Hz to 100Hz.This feature will enhance the bass response
of any type of FM receivers, specially those that are not equipped with a bass
boost function.
B) Input and output connectors
FM-800 and FM-850 transmitters come with two sets of inputs: RIGHT and
LEFT XLR3 balanced inputs and RIGHT and LEFT 1/4" unbalanced inputs, witch
are the two most popular types of input connectors.
The RF output has a female UHF (SO-239) connector and typical load
impedance is 50 Ohms. Antenna cable (RG-8 or RG-58) should not exceed 100
feet in length for RG-8 and 50 feet for RG-58, in order to minimize the power
loss in the cable.

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C) Optimal input level
Optimal input level is reached when the OVER modulation indicator remains off
at all time. Adjust the input level control to meet that condition. To obtain this
result it is mandatory to compress the audio input signal (between your audio
source output and the inputs of the transmitter inputs. The over modulation
LED on the front panel shall never or rarely lit up. The level has to be adjusted
in a manner to avoid over modulation.
SECTION 5
MAINTENANCE AND PROGRAMMING
A) Maintenance
No maintenance is required to keep the transmitter in top operating condition. If
an external cleaning appears necessary, use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap
only.
B) Frequency programming
The transmitting frequency is user programmable via a set of 4 decimal rotary
switches (below the FREQUENCY digital readout) on the front panel (FM-800 &
FM-850).
1) While the transmitter is off (Power switch is off), determine the frequency
of your choice and compose in a sequential fashion (from far left switch to
right), the number of your chosen FM frequency. Ex: 102.3 MHz: First
switch (far left) = 1, Second switch= 0, Third switch = 2 and Fourth
switch = 3. Basically, what you are doing is that you directly write the
frequency number in Mega Hertz.
Notice: While it is possible to select and read an FM frequency below and
above the restricted frequency range (Ex: 80.1MHz or 195.9MHz), the system
will always validate the lowest or the highest permissible FM frequency instead.
The lowest being 87.9MHz and the highest being 107.9MHz.It is also
applicable for a selected even frequency (Ex: 88.2MHz), where the system will
validate the nearest odd frequency instead ( 88.3MHz).
CAUTION: Never perform a frequency programming while the unit is powered
(power switch on).

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2) Activate the power switch (front panel) to ON position. A delay of 3 to 4
seconds is required for stabilization. The Tuning Lock indicator (front panel)
shall lite up and activate the output section as soon as the stabilization delay is
over. You are now ready to broadcast.
C) RF power level programming
The transmitting RF power is user programmable in the range of 0 Watt to
1.8Watts, in increments of 50 miliWatts, via a set of 3 decimal rotary switches
(below the POWER digital readout) on the front panel (FM-800 & FM-850).
1) Determine the RF power of your choice and compose in a sequential fashion
(from far left switch to right), the number of your chosen RF power.
Ex: 500 miliWatts: First switch (far left) = 0, Second switch= 5 and Third
switch = 0. Basically, what you are doing, is that you directly write the RF
power number in Watts (500 miliWatts =.050 Watts).
Notice: While it is possible to select and read an RF power above the restricted
frequency range (Ex: 1.95 Watts), the system will always validate the highest
permissible RF power instead. The highest being 1.8 Watts.
NOTICE: It is possible to select a new RF power while the unit is powered
(power switch on).
SECTION 6
APPLICATIONS
Applications for DECADE transmitters are almost unlimited, but here are a few very
popular ones. With DECADE transmitters, a whole new world opens up for hearing
impaired people, and most of all for people demanding the best sound reproduction
possible, regardless of the environment.
In Canada: Please contact your nearest office Industry Canada to obtain information
concerning the need to hold a permit or license based on your particular application.
In USA: Please contact your nearest office FCC to obtain information concerning the
need to hold a permit or license based on your particular application.
CHURCHES: Connected to the church sound system, the transmitter
broadcasts the oral and musical content of the celebrations

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to the attendants, hearing impaired or not, and let them
benefit from a perfect listening.
CINEMAS: Connected to the Dolby cinema processor or projector
preamplifier, the transmitter allows the attendants to enjoy
the full stereo spectrum and all the details of the soundtrack
of the movie. A truly unique experience everyone must try.
THEATRES: With two microphones installed on the stage and fed to the
transmitter through a mixing board, you will have the
sensation of being seated right next to the actors, even if
you are actually seating in the last row.
CONFERENCE HALLS: Many transmitters can be used as part of a simultaneous
translation scheme, where attendants can listen to the
conference in the language of their choice. A single
transmitter can also be used as an aid for hearing impaired
persons.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FM-800
RADIO SECTION:
MODULATION: FM, deviation of 75 kHz
FREQUENCY RANGE: from 87.9 to 107.9 MHz (programmable)
FREQUENCY PRECISION: 0.0008% or better
HARMONICS REJECTION: 55 dB min., 60 dB typ.
OUTPUT POWER: 0 mWatt to 1.8Watts, programmable in increments of 50 miliWatts.
LOAD IMPEDANCE: 50 Ohms typ.
ANTENNA CONNECTOR: UHF-F (SO-239)
CERTIFICATION STANDARD: Industry Canada BETS-6 & RSS-123 (Certification), FCC Part 73 regulations in USA
CERTIFICATION ID NUMBER: 1857 231 175 (RSS 153), 1857 231 113 (RSS 123), MCHFM-800 (FCC PART 73)
CONTROLS & INDICATORS: Frequency selection and readout, Power selection and readout,
Tuning lock status.
AUDIO SECTION:
MODE: mono (HI-FI)
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20 Hz - 20 000 Hz, @-1dB
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION: 0.05% max.
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO: 70 dB min.
DYNAMIC RANGE: 80 dB min.
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 600 Ohms balanced (XLR), 10K Ohms unbalanced (¼")
CONNECTORS: 2 X XLR3 and 2 X ¼" female jacks (located in the XLR3 center connector).
INPUT SENSITIVITY: balanced: 0dBm min. unbalanced: -6 dBm min. (both inputs in use)
INDICATORS: Normal and over modulation, power.
CONTROL: input level, power switch
MISCELLANEOUS:
POWER REQUIREMENTS: 120 V, 60 Hz, 40 VA
AC PROTECTION: grounded AC plug and 500 mA slow blow, 120 V fuse
DIMENSIONS: 19" x 11" x 1.75" (48 cm x 28 cm x 4.5 cm), 1 rack mount space
WEIGHT: 19 lb (8.63 5kg)
DECADE Transmitters reserves the right to make changes or improvements in manufacturing or design of its products, witch may
affect specifications.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FM-850
RADIO SECTION:
MODULATION: FM, deviation of 75 kHz
FREQUENCY RANGE: from 87.9 to 107.9 MHz (programmable)
FREQUENCY PRECISION: 0.0008% or better
HARMONICS REJECTION: 55 dB min., 60 dB typ.
OUTPUT POWER: 0 mWatt to 1.8WattS, programmable in increments of 50 miliWatts.
LOAD IMPEDANCE: 50 Ohms typ.
ANTENNA CONNECTOR: UHF-F (SO-239)
CERTIFICATION STANDARD: Industry Canada BETS-6 & RSS-123 (Certification), FCC Part 73 regulations in USA
CERTIFICATION ID NUMBER: 1857 231 175 (RSS 153), 1857 231 113 (RSS 123), MCHFM-800 (FCC PART 73)
CONTROLS & INDICATORS: Frequency selection and readout, Power selection and readout,
Tuning lock status indicator.
AUDIO SECTION:
MODE: stereo/mono (HI-FI) (selectable)
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20 Hz - 15 000 Hz, @-1dB *
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION: 0.05% max.
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO: 65 dB min.
DYNAMIC RANGE: 80 dB min.
STEREO SEPARATION: 40 dB min., 45 dB typ. **
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 600 Ohms balanced (XLR), 10K Ohms unbalanced (¼")
CONNECTORS: 2 x XLR3 and 2 x ¼" (located in the XLR3 center connector).
INPUT LEVEL: balanced: -4dBm min. unbalanced: -10 dBm min
INDICATORS: Normal and over modulation indicators, stereo and bass boost indicators
CONTROLS: input level, mono/stereo selector, bass boost selector
* Broadcast standard
** The minimum required separation for FM transmitters is 25 dB. The best receivers have a separation of 40dB, so the effective
separation is more a matter of the quality of the receiver.
MISCELLANEOUS:
POWER REQUIREMENTS: 120 V, 60 Hz, 40VA
AC PROTECTION: grounded AC plug and 500 mA slow blow, 120 V fuse
DIMENSIONS: 19" x 11" x 1.75" (48 cm x 28 cm x 4.5 cm), 1 rack mount space
WEIGHT: 19 lb (8.63 kg)
DECADE Transmitters reserves the right to make changes or improvements in manufacturing or design of its products, witch may
affect specifications.