DirectOut Technologies EXBOX.AES User manual

EXBOX.AES
User‘s Manual
Version 2.0

page 2 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Copyright
All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or electronically reproduce
any document or graphic in whole or in part for any reason is
expressly prohibited, unless prior written consent is obtained from the
DirectOut GmbH.
All trademarks and registered trademarks belong to their respective
owners. It cannot be guaranteed that all product names, products,
trademarks, requisitions, regulations, guidelines, specifications and
norms are free from trade mark rights of third parties.
All entries in this document have been thoroughly checked; however
no guarantee for correctness can be given.
DirectOut GmbH cannot be held responsible for any misleading or
incorrect information provided throughout this manual.
DirectOut GmbH reserves the right to change specifications at any time
without notice.
DirectOut Technologies® is a registered trademark of the DirectOut
GmbH.
© DirectOut GmbH, 2017

page 3 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Table of contents
About This Manual 5
How to Use This Manual 5
Conventions 5
Chapter 1: Overview 6
Introduction 6
Feature Summary 7
Applications 8
How it works 8
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts 10
Before Installing This Device 10
First Aid (in case of electric shock) 11
Defective Parts/Modules 12
Updates 12
Intended Operation 13
Conditions of Warranty 14
Conformity & Certificates 15
Contents 16
Contact 16
Accessory 18
Chapter 3: Installation 19
Installing the Device 19
CHAPTER 4: Operation 25
Introduction 25
Global Control 26
Menu Control 27

page 4 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Clocking 28
Sample Rates 30
Output Format 32
Routing 34
Embedder / De-Embedder 37
Connecting MADI 40
Connecting AES 42
USB 43
CHAPTER 5: Menu Navigation 44
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance 46
Troubleshooting 46
Maintenance 48
CHAPTER 7: Technical Data 50
Appendix A - Wiring Sketches 53
Hirose HR10 (DC PSU) 53
DSUB-25 - AES3 54
DSUB-9 - RS 232 55
Index 56

page 5 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
About This Manual
About This Manual
How to Use This Manual
This manual guides you through the installation and
operation of the device.
Use the Table of Contents at the beginning of the
manual or Index Directory at the end of the document
to locate help on a particular topic. You can access
more information and latest news by visiting on the
DirectOut website at www.directout.eu.
Conventions
The following symbols are used to draw your
attention to:
TIPS!
indicate useful hints and shortcuts.
NOTES!
are used for important points of clarification or cross
references.
WARNINGS!
alert you when an action should always be observed.

page 6 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 1: Overview
Chapter 1: Overview
Introduction
EXBOX.AES is a handy sized AES / MADI converter
for 16 audio channels.
It provides bidirectional conversion between AES3
and MADI (AES10). A built in embedder / de-
embedder offers processing of serial data (RS 232).
EXBOX.AES extends MADI environments by offering
straightforwardAES conversion and simplifies serial
data communication with remote devices using the
MADI link.

page 7 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 1: Overview
Feature Summary
MADI Ports* 2 x SC multi-mode connectors
or
1 x SC multi-mode connector
1 x coaxial BNC connectors
AES Ports 8 x AES3 I/O via DSUB-25, AES59
compliant
Serial Port 1 x RS 232 via DSUB-9
USB Port USB 2.0 port for firmware updates
MADI Formats 56/64 channel, 48k/96k Frame, S/MUX 2/4
Sample Rates 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz +/-
12.5%
Power Supply external,
2 x Hirose connector (9-24 V)
* The device is available in two different versions
- see page 17.

page 8 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 1: Overview
Applications
EXBOX.AES can be used for conversion of MADI
signals (AES10) to AES signals and vice versa. Serial
data can be received at the local RS 232 port or
embedded into the MADI output signal from there.
Typical applications include:
• AES frontend for a MADI setup
• Integration of AES based equipment with
remote control over RS 232
How it works
16 audio channels of the MADI input signal are
routed to the eight AES output ports. The specific
bank of the 16 audio channels can be selected by the
routing.
The input signal of the eight AES ports is output at
both MADI outputs.
The MADI input that locks first will be used as signal
and sync source for conversion.
Clocking via AES input is possible by switching the
clock source setting.
The scaling factor of the sample rates may be set to
match the signal accordingly.

page 9 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 1: Overview
The local RS 232 port offers bidirectional transport of
serial data that is embedded in the user bits of audio
channels1-9.
The embedder / de-embedder handles four different
baud rates. Further it can be switched off to process
user bits of the AES inputs or it can be bypassed to
preserve user bits of the MADI input signal.
NOTE
A MADI signal transports 64 audio channels. There
are four banks with 16 channels each (4 x 16 = 64).

page 10 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Before Installing This Device
WARNING!
Please read and observe all of the following notes
before installing this product:
• Check the hardware device for transport
damage.
• Any devices showing signs of mechanical
damage or damage from the spillage of liquids
must not be connected to the mains supply,
or disconnected from the mains immediately by
pulling out the power lead.
• All devices must be grounded. The device is
grounded through its IEC power connections.
• All devices must be connected to the mains
using the three-cord power leads supplied with
the system. Only supply electrical interfaces
with the voltages and signals described in these
instructions.
• Do not use the device at extreme temperatures.
Proper operation can only be guaranteed
between temperatures of 5ºC and 45ºC
and a maximum relative humidity of 80%, non-
condensing.
• The cabinet of the device will heat up. Do not
place the device close to heating sources (e.g.
heaters). Observe the environmental conditions.

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CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
First Aid (in case of electric shock)
WARNING!
• Do not touch the person or his/her clothing
before power is turned off, otherwise you risk
sustaining an electric shock yourself.
• Separate the person as quickly as possible from
the electric power source as follows:
- Switch off the equipment.
- Unplug or disconnect the mains cable.
• Move the person away from the power source
by using dry insulating material (such as wood or
plastic).
• If the person is unconscious:
- Check their pulse and reanimate if their
respiration is poor.
- Lay the body down and turn it to one side.
Call for a doctor immediately.
• Having sustained an electric shock, Always
consult a doctor.

page 12 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Defective Parts/Modules
WARNING!
This device contains no user-serviceable parts.
Therefore do not open the device.
In the event of a hardware defect, please send the
device to your DirectOut representative together with
a detailed description of the fault.
We would like to remind you to please check
carefully whether the failure is caused by erroneous
configuration, operation or connection before sending
parts for repair.
Updates
DirectOut products are continually in development,
and therefore the information in this manual may be
superseded by new releases. To access the latest
documentation, please visit the DirectOut website:
www.directout.eu.

page 13 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
WARNING!
No compensation can be claimed for damages
caused by operation of this unit other than for the
intended use described above. Consecutive damages
are also excluded explicitly. The general terms and
conditions of business of DirectOut GmbH are
applied.
Intended Operation
The EXBOX.AES is designed for conversion between
AES and MADI signals (AES10). It provides further
embedding / de-embedding of serial data (RS 232).

page 14 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Conditions of Warranty
This unit has been designed and examined carefully
by the manufacturer and complies with actual norms
and directives.
Warranty is granted by DirectOut GmbH over the
period of two years for all components that are
essential for proper and intended operation of the
device. The date of purchase is applied for this period.
Consumable parts (e.g. battery) are excluded from
warranty claims.
WARNING!
All claims of warranty will expire once the device
has been opened or modified, or if instructions and
warnings were ignored.
For warranty claims please contact the dealer where
your device was acquired.

page 15 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Conformity & Certificates
CE
This device complies with the basic requests of
applicable EU guidelines. The appropriate procedure
for approval has been carried out.
RoHS
(Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous
Substances)
This device was constructed fulfilling the directive
on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous
substances in electrical and electronic equipment
2002/95/EC.
WEEE
(Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment)
Due to the directive 2002/96/EC for waste disposal
this device must be recycled.
For correct recycling please dispatch the device to:
DirectOut GmbH,
Leipziger Str. 32
09648 Mittweida
Germany
Only stamped parcels will be accepted!
WEEE-Reg.-No. DE 64879540

page 16 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Contact
DirectOut GmbH
Leipziger Str. 32, 09648 Mittweida, Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Mail: [email protected]
www.directout.eu
Contents
The contents of your EXBOX.AES package include:
• 1 x EXBOX.AES
• 1 x external power supply unit (9- 24 V)
• 1 x Manual
To complete the delivery please download from the
product page on the
DirectOut website (www.directout.eu):
• USB Serial driver
• latest firmware

page 17 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Single-Mode / Multi-Mode
The SC ports are multi-mode as default. It is possible
to equip the device with single-mode SC ports. The
housing of single-mode ports is colored blue.
Two different MADI I/O configurations are available:
1 x SC-Socket, 1 x BNC coaxial
2 x SC-Socket
multi-mode single-mode

page 18 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
CHAPTER 2: Legal issues & facts
Accessory
BOX.MOUNT XL- for optimal rack mount of up to
three devices in a 19’’ frame (No: DOAPA0886):

page 19 of 60EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 3: Installation
WARNING
Avoid damage from condensation by waiting for the
device to adapt to the environmental temperature.
Proper operation can only be guaranteed between
temperatures of 5ºC and 45ºC and a maximum
relative humidity of 80%, non-condensing.
Ensure that the unit has sufficient air circulation for
cooling.
WARNING
The synthetics of the delivered pads might cause
stains on damageable surfaces. To avoid staining
of furniture surfaces it is recommended to place a
protective plate under the device.
Chapter 3: Installation
Installing the Device
1. Open the packaging and check that the
contents have been delivered complete and
undamaged.
2. Place the device on a non-slip horizontal
surface. The delivered pads may be affixed to
the bottom of the cabinet. Ensure a clean and
dry surface before affixing the pads.

page 20 of 60 EXBOX.AES Manual - Version 2.0
Chapter 3: Installation
Retain the protective cap if the optical port is unused.
This will protect against soiling which can lead to
malfunction.
3. Remove the protective cap from the optical
MADI port(s) before use.
SC/SC Version
BNC/SC Version
NOTE!