Fairlight SX-48 User manual

SX-48
Service Manual
24 July 2008
Version 1.0

Important Notice
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Copyright © 2006
FairlightAU Pty Ltd,
Unit 3, 15 Rodborough Rd,
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086,
AUSTRALIA.
Telephone [phone]
Fax [phone]
Obtaining Technical Support
Users requiring technical support should contact their local distributor.
Information can also be found on the world wide web at:
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Manual Errors and Omission
To help ensure that Fairlight provides the most accurate and comprehensive documentation, please
report any errors or omissions to:
[email protected]

SX-48 Page 5
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................7
SX-48 (Signal Exchange 48 Channels)....................................................................................7
Purpose of this Document.....................................................................................................7
Warning ..............................................................................................................................7
Fitting and Changing Boards..................................................................................................7
Static Precautions...............................................................................................................................7
Orientation – VERY IMPORTANT .........................................................................................................7
SX-48 Basics........................................................................................................................7
Adding a Board ..................................................................................................................................8
CHAPTER 2 - SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ..........................................................................9
Contents of Box ...................................................................................................................9
SX-48 Sub-Systems ..............................................................................................................9
Base Unit...........................................................................................................................................9
System Boards...................................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER 3 - INSTALLATION PROCEDURE ..............................................................11
Installation Step-by-Step..................................................................................................... 11
Physical Installation............................................................................................................11
Environment ....................................................................................................................................11
Cabling............................................................................................................................................12
User Interface....................................................................................................................12
Factory Reset...................................................................................................................................12
Setup ..............................................................................................................................................13
CHAPTER 3 - PINOUTS.................................................................................................15
Analog Inputs ..................................................................................................................................15
Analog Outputs................................................................................................................................16
AES Inputs and Outputs ...................................................................................................................17
RUNNING SX-48 IN A DREAM II SYSTEM ...................................................................18
Sync.................................................................................................................................. 18
Audio Connection...............................................................................................................18
Order of Channels..............................................................................................................19
Naming Channels .............................................................................................................................19
Control via Ethernet............................................................................................................19
SX-48 CONFIGURATOR......................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
What this New Firmware offers................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
THE CONFIGURATOR...................................................................................................21
Search for SX-48s...............................................................................................................21
Room and Unit ID ..............................................................................................................22
Setting a new IP address. ...................................................................................................22
Upgrading Firmware...........................................................................................................24
Program Sync ....................................................................................................................26
Front Panel Control.............................................................................................................27
Diagnostics Section ............................................................................................................28
Configure FMC - Required!!.................................................................................................29
Using AES2........................................................................................................................ 30
APPENDIX A - SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................................31

SX-48 Page 6
Analog Inputs and Outputs ...............................................................................................................31
AES/EBU Inputs ...............................................................................................................................31
AES/EBU Outputs.............................................................................................................................31
Synchronization................................................................................................................................31
Dimensions, Weight and Power Requirements....................................................................................32

Service Manual CHAPTER 1-INTRODUCTION July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 7
Chapter 1 - Introduction
SX-48 (Signal Exchange 48 Channels)
Fairlight’s SX-48 Signal Exchange unit provides flexible I/O management of both analog and digital
audio inputs and outputs and a packing density of up to 48 channels in a single 2U frame. Each
standard SX-48 frame ships with a MADI I/O card to provide a multiplexed bi-directional signal flow
for each 48 channel unit. Digital signals can be referenced to external AES, Word Clock or Video at
any standard frame rate, including tri-level references when used in a Hi Definition production
environment. If AES inputs are present, any AES input can be used as a reference for the system. The
front panel LED’s provide a clear indication as to the reference currently in use.
Central to the SX-48 design is the ability to flexibly configure units with any combination of up to six
audio I/O cards plus one MADI I/O card in each 2U frame. These cards can provide 8 x channels of
AES EBU I/O with Sample rate conversion, 8 channels of high quality analog inputs and 8 x channels
of Analog outputs. Optional relay protected analog outputs are also available if these channels are
required to connect to analog speakers.
Purpose of this Document
This document explains how to install, configure and test a Fairlight SX-48 audio interface box.
Warning
The SX-48 is an electrical device containing dangerous components and high voltages. Only
competent service technicians should open the box, and then only after turning off the power and
making sure that the unit is properly grounded.
Fitting and Changing Boards
Static Precautions
SX-48 installation may involve fitting of electronic circuit boards. Care must be taken when doing this
to avoid danger to oneself and damage to the equipment.
Please take note that all Fairlight manufactured electronic modules are static sensitive and should be
handled under anti-static conditions. When working on a system always ensure that you have an anti-
static lead connected and that the system is connected to ground through an earth lead.
Never work on the system while powered up unless you are authorized by Fairlight to do so. As a
matter of practice always touch the external chassis of the system before opening the front panel. If
cards are not handled under anti-static procedures your machine may sustain damage which could
either cause a complete failure or may cause intermittent crashes and subsequent system failure.
When handling cards please ensure that they are placed in anti-static bags when not in the system.
For shipment purposes electronic modules should be placed in an anti-static bag and then suitably
surrounded with loose packaging materials in a solid card board box. Cards shipped to Fairlight
without the correct anti-static packaging will have their warranty voided. If you have any enquiries on
this matter please feel free to contact your local Fairlight office or distributor.
Orientation – VERY IMPORTANT
WARNING – incorrect orientation of boards when installing can cause severe damage to the SX-48
unit. Make sure you carefully inspect the picture below before placing boards in the unit.
SX-48 Basics
The SX-48 is a synchronized audio conversion box. It converts as follows:

Service Manual CHAPTER 1-INTRODUCTION July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 8
Analog →MADI
Analog ←MADI
AES/EBU →MADI
AES/EBU ←MADI
Adding a Board
All boards are fitted using connectors that press together. Excessive force is not required. I/O boards
use white Teflon guides to locate easily.
Ensure that the Teflon posts are correctly lined up to the holes in the board, and that the connectors
are correctly lined up. Check orientation against the illustration above.

Service Manual CHAPTER 2-SYSTEM DESCRIPTION July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 9
Chapter 2 - System Description
Contents of Box
When you receive your SX-48, you should find the following parts in the box:
•One SX-48 chassis, pre-configured with the I/O cards you ordered.
•One IEC power cord
•One SX-48 Quick Start Manual
•One SX-48 Installation Manual (this book)
•One SX-48 CD-ROM containing software and your User Manual.
SX-48 Sub-Systems
The SX-48 consists of a number of sub-systems that are described below.
Base Unit
The Base Unit includes the metalwork chassis, the front panel, the Power Supply Unit, and the
motherboard.
System Boards
Every SX-48 includes the following system boards:
MADI
The MADI board provides an industry standard interface carrying 56* channels of audio at up to 48
kHz, or 28 channels at up to 96 kHz.
*Note that only the first 48 channels can actually be used at 48 kHz, because the unit only supports
that number of analog or AES digital channels.
Sync 1
The Sync 1 board provides interfaces for the following synchronization signals:
Internal (Crystal), AES digital audio, Word Clock , video (PAL or NTSC) and TSCP (Fairlight’s Total
Studio Connectivity Protocol).
I/O Boards
There are four types of I/O boards that can currently be fitted into the SX-48, in a variety of
combinations.
AI1 – Analog Input
The AI1 board provides 8 analog inputs at +4 dBu.
AO1 – Analog Output
The AI1 board provides 8 analog outputs at +4 dBu.
AO1M – Analog Output with Speaker Protection
The AO1M board provides 8 analog outputs at +4 dBu. It also includes circuitry that prevents pops
appearing at the outputs on power up and power down, and is therefore suitable for output to high
power monitoring systems.
AES1 – Digital I/O
The AES1 board provides 8 inputs and 8 outputs in AES/EBU format.

Service Manual CHAPTER 2-SYSTEM DESCRIPTION July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 10
AES2 – Digital I/O with SRC
The AES2 board provides 8 inputs and 8 outputs in AES/EBU format. It also includes Sample Rate
Conversion circuitry, allowing signals of any sample rate to be fed to the SX-48, regardless of its
nominal sampling frequency.
Board Slots
The SX-48 includes 6 slots for I/O boards. They can be filled with any combination of I/O boards
desired by the owner.
Using combinations of the I/O boards, it is possible to configure the SX-48 in many different ways. For
example, it is possible to have 48 digital I/Os or 48 analog inputs or 48 analog outputs or 24 analog
inputs and outputs etc.
For detailed instructions on fitting boards, see the section Fitting and Changing Boards. In particular,
note the section on orientation of boards, because incorrect orientation can cause severe damage to
the unit.
Order of Boards
Any I/O board can go into any slot.
Each slot has 8 MADI channels associated with it. For example, Slot 1 is connected to MADI channels
1 to 8 (both input and output), while Slot 4 is connected MADI channels 25 to 32.
If an AI1 is installed in Slot 1, its 8 analog inputs will connect to MADI outputs 1 to 8, while MADI
inputs 1 to 8 will not be used.
If an AO1 is installed in Slot 1, its 8 analog outputs will connect to MADI inputs 1 to 8, while MADI
outputs 1 to 8 will not be used.
If an AES2 is installed in Slot 1, its 8 AES/EBU inputs will connect to MADI outputs 1 to 8, and its 8
AES/EBU outputs will connect to MADI inputs 1 to 8.
For use in DREAM II systems, please see Running SX-48 in a DREAM II System, below.

Service Manual CHAPTER 3-INSTALLATION PROCEDURE July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 11
Chapter 3 - Installation Procedure
Installation Step-by-Step
The following guide is Fairlight’s recommended step-by-step procedure for installation and
commissioning the SX-48.
Step 1 Unpack
Check the contents of the box, as outlined in the section “Contents of Box” above.
Step 2 Install Hardware
See “Physical Installation” below.
Step 3 Factory Reset
See “Factory Reset” below.
Step 4 Check LEDs for correct functioning
See “Check I/O Hardware Indication” below.
Step 5 Set Sample Rate and Sync Source
See “Sample Rate” and “Sync Source” below.
Step 6 Test with audio
Physical Installation
Environment
The system is designed to be operated in a clean air-conditioned environment. Generally, an area
comfortable for people (20°C - 21°C) should be suitable. The unit is intended for rack mounting, and
it is recommended that support be given at the rear of the unit, as it is quite heavy. People installing
the SX-48 should exercise caution in lifting it into place, as back injury can result from incorrect lifting
technique.
The SX-48 uses fans for ventilation. Make sure that the rack unit has access for cool air to flow
through the opening on the front of the SX-48 and warm air to be expelled from the back. There is no
need to leave vertical spaces between SX-48 units in the rack, as long as the flow of air to and from
the fans is good.
As with all computer systems, the SX-48 will operate more reliably if static generating floor coverings
are avoided.
Do not fit the SX-48 into a closed environment except where ducted cool air is forced through the Unit.
Do not run the unit whilst it is on or near the ground as it will accumulate dust, which may eventually
cause a failure.
Please Avoid:
•Fitting the SX-48 where air circulation will be restricted
•Installing close to a heat source
•Installing in dusty or damp area
•Installing in area subject to vibration
•Installing in area with strong magnetic or electric fields

Service Manual CHAPTER 3-INSTALLATION PROCEDURE July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 12
Cabling
Power
Insert power cable in Standard IEC socket at rear of unit. Its hardware switch must be turned on for
unit to operate.
Audio Boards
Slots are numbered from the RIGHT when viewing the unit from the rear.
SX-48 uses DB-25 connectors for audio. Each type of I/O board uses a different layout of pins for its
audio signals. Please see section Pinouts below for details.
Note that cables for the DigidesignTM 192 interface are suitable for use with SX-48.
Sync
You may connect all the sync sources at the same time, and choose from time to time which one to
use. The following connectors are used:
•Video Sync – BNC
•Word Clock – BNC
•AES sync – XLR
•TSCP – BNC
All connectors are labeled. Pinouts for these connectors can be found in Chapter 4 – Pinouts, page 15.
User Interface
The following guide explains how to get the unit running once it has been mounted in the rack, and
all connections made to it.
Factory Reset
Perform a Factory Reset when FIRST commissioning the SX-48. It is rarely necessary later.
Use a screwdriver or similar tool to press and hold the Setup button while powering up the unit (at the
front left). Hold it pressed for a few seconds, until LEDs on the front panel are lit.
This resets the patching and Ethernet IP address of the unit to factory standard settings.
Multiple voltages are supported: (100V,
110V, 230V or 240V
at 50 or 60 Hz)
Setup button is
behind this hole in
the metal.

Service Manual CHAPTER 3-INSTALLATION PROCEDURE July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 13
Setup
Setup Mode is used to set both Sample Rate and Sync Source. Enter setup mode at any time when
the unit is powered on, by pressing and holding the Setup button for a few seconds, until one of the
Sample Rate LEDs starts to flash.
Check I/O Hardware Indication
While the SX-48 is in Setup Mode, the Input and Output LEDs show the status of the I/O boards. They
can be checked as follows.
•If an input or output LED is green, it means there is an analog input or output at that position.
•If an input or output LED is orange, it means there is a digital input or output at that position.
•If an input or output LED is off, it means there is no correctly functioning input or output at
that position.
Sample Rate
While the SX-48 is in Setup Mode, pressing the Setup button will cycle around the Sample Rates (not
including 192 kHz). Press it repeatedly until your desired sample rate is flashing. Now press and hold
the Setup button for a few seconds, until one of the Sync Source LEDs starts to flash.
Sync Source
Pressing the Setup button will now cycle around the Sync Sources. Press it repeatedly until your
desired Sync Source is flashing. Now hold the Setup button for a few seconds until all LED flashing
stops.

Service Manual CHAPTER 3-INSTALLATION PROCEDURE July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 14
The unit now exits Setup Mode, and is ready for use.

Service Manual CHAPTER 4-PINOUTS July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 15
Chapter 4 - Pinouts
Analog Inputs

Service Manual CHAPTER 4-PINOUTS July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 16
Analog Outputs

Service Manual CHAPTER 4-PINOUTS July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 17
AES Inputs and Outputs

Service Manual CHAPTER 5-SX-48 IN A DREAM II SYSTEM July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 18
Chapter 5 - SX-48 in a DREAM II System
Sync
Primary sync for a DREAM II system is provided by an SX-20 sync and I/O box. This is shipped as a
standard component with DREAM II systems. Adding an SX-48 increases the number of I/O channels.
It is important to synchronise SX-48 with DREAM II, to ensure clean audio transmission through the
system. This is achieved by connecting the same primary sync source to both the SX-20 and the SX-
48. For example, if a video house sync is being used, it should be connected to both boxes, and both
boxes should have video selected as the sync source.
Audio Connection
SX-48 is used with DREAM II as follows:
•Analog Input →MADI →DREAM II
•DREAM II →MADI →Analog Output
•AES/EBU Input →MADI →DREAM II
•DREAM II →MADI →AES/EBU Output
The MADI connectors on the rear of the SX-48 are used to transmit up to 48 channels between it and
the DREAM II system. Use MADI cables to connect to the BNC connectors on the rear of the CC-1
card installed in the DREAM II host PC.
Connect MADI Out on the CC-1 to MADI In on SX-48.
Connect MADI In on the CC-1 to MADI Out on SX-48.
To connect more SX-48s, add a CMI MADI extension board to the DREAM II host PC.
CC-1 Card showing:
MADI Out
MADI In

Service Manual CHAPTER 5-SX-48 IN A DREAM II SYSTEM July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 19
Order of Channels
DREAM II sees all channels to and from the SX-48 as MADI channels, regardless of which audio
interface cards are installed.
When patching SX-48 inputs to Tracks or Live Feeds, always choose MADI as the type of input.
Similarly when patching physical outputs.
Naming Channels
If it is difficult to remember which MADI channels correspond with analog inputs, outputs and so on,
you may wish to name the I/O channels. This can be done once and kept for all following sessions.
For example, if an AI1 is installed in Slot 1, DREAM II’s MADI inputs 1 to 8 could conveniently be
named SX-48 AI1 to SX-48 AI8 or something similar, while MADI outputs 1 to 8 could be named NC
(not connected).
To name channels, open the following file: C:\Program Files\Fairlight\FMC\Data\I-O config.TXT
By default, this file contains naming for your SX-20 inputs and outputs. Directions for how to name
channels are contained in the header of the file. Here are specific instructions for naming SX-48
channels.
Step 1 Find the line starting with IO_CONFIG,3
This line tells the system how many MADI channels it should display. By default there are zero
inputs and zero outputs (before you connected the SX-48 or any other MADI device), so it
reads IO_CONFIG,3,0,0.
Step 2 Edit the line, changing the zeros to 56, if you have one SX-48, or multiples of 56 if
you have more than one.
So if you have a single SX-48, the line would read IO_CONFIG,3,56,56.
If you have two SX-48s, the line would read IO_CONFIG,3,112,112, and so on.
NOTE! Each BNC MADI pair can address 56 MADI channels.
However, each SX48 can only address the first 48 Input and Output channels of that 56 MADI
channel stream.
THEREFORE, the last 8 Input AND Output channels (MADI 49 – 56) should be BLANK!
Step 3 For the first channel, insert a line like the following: INPUT,3,1,Name
This means: MADI Input number 1, Name…. For Name you can put anything up to 11
characters including numbers, for example “SX-48 AI1”
Step 4 Add another line for the next channel, looking like this: INPUT,3,2,Name
Step 5 Add lines for all your other channels
Remember that some channels are outputs, so the line should look like
OUTPUT,3,number,name
Also remember that many channels do not exist
Control via Ethernet
Setting the sample rate in your DREAM II system will automatically change the SAX-48’s sample rate,
if they are connected via Ethernet.

Service Manual CHAPTER 5-SX-48 IN A DREAM II SYSTEM July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 20
To do this, connect the SX-48 to your Ethernet hub using a standard networking cable. Your DREAM
II system will automatically find the SX-48 and send commands to it, as long as the network is
correctly set up.

Service Manual CHAPTER 6-THE SX-48 CONFIGURATOR July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 21
Chapter 6 - The SX-48 Configurator
An easy to use graphical interface is available in order to configure and administrate the
SX-48.
This application is available here:
Start ÎAll Programs ÎFairlight ÎFMC ÎFMC Utils ÎSX48 Configurator
Please read this section completely before you attempt to use the SX-48 configurator.
All files used by the SX-48 Configurator are installed by default with any new Dream II or Xynergi
software release.
Search for SX-48s
By Clicking on this button, you will automatically see all SX-48s available on the network. This will
include both the IP address and MAC address of each unit.

Service Manual CHAPTER 6-THE SX-48 CONFIGURATOR July 24, 2008
SX-48 Page 22
Please note that once these SX-48 units are scanned and recognized, all of these units will now also
be available for individual selection in the following drop-down window:
Room and Unit ID
You can set a fixed “Room” number and “Unit” identifier to each SX-48 unit by choosing a particular
unit from the drop-down window. Setting the Room number and Unit number, then simply click on the
<Set New Room ID> button. The "Room" ID accepts any single alphanumeric character, number or
letter.
This information will also appear in the information window along with the IP and MAC address.
Setting a new IP address
To set a new IP address for a particular unit, simply choose a unit (once again), from the drop down
window. Setup your new IP address and Subnet mask. Then click on the <Set New IP address>
Button.