iSIS Graham-Patten SoundPals DMIX-41 User manual

SoundPals™
DMIX-41 User Guide
Four channel Digital Mixer

Graham-Patten is a division of
Printing History
SoundPals™DMIX-41 Four Channel Digital Mixer
Rev. N/C
March 2007
Printed in U.S.A.
Part Number 08-2047-00
The information contained in this guide is subject to change without notice or obligation.
Copyrights and Trademarks
© 2005 GRAHAM-PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC.
Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Graham-Patten.
Reproduction or reverse engineering of copyrighted software is prohibited.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.
Warranty Statement
Graham-Patten warrants that the equipment it manufactures is free from defects in workmanship and materials and
meets applicable published specifications. Equipment that has been operated within published ratings and has not
been subjected to abuse or modification, and which fails because of such defects, will be replaced or repaired at the
Company’s discretion if it is returned, freight prepaid, to Graham-Patten within seven years of receipt.
This warranty supersedes all other Warranties, express or implied. Graham-Patten is not liable for any
consequential damages.
Company Address
GRAHAM-PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC.
119 East McKnight Way, Unit A
Grass Valley, California 95949
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
World Wide Web: www.gpsys.com

Table of Contents
ii • Table of Contents DMIX-41 User Guide
Table of Contents ii
Introduction 1
What are SoundPals?.............................................................................................................. 1
Documentation Conventions.................................................................................................... 1
Signals and Values .................................................................................................................. 1
Warnings.................................................................................................................................. 1
Unpacking and Inspection ....................................................................................................... 2
Power Supply Note .................................................................................................................. 2
DMIX-41 3
About the DMIX-41 .................................................................................................................. 3
DMIX-41 Installation ................................................................................................................ 6
Connecting Power ............................................................................................................. 6
Connecting Inputs ............................................................................................................. 6
Connecting Outputs........................................................................................................... 6
DMIX-41 Operation.................................................................................................................. 7
Local Operation .................................................................................................................7
AC-3 Operation .................................................................................................................7
DMIX-41 Interconnection .........................................................................................................8
Basic - Mixing Workstation Audio...................................................................................... 8
Basic - Audio Bypass Switch............................................................................................. 9
Advanced - Fade, Mix and Switch................................................................................... 10
DMIX-41 Remote Control ...................................................................................................... 11
Remote Control Connection ............................................................................................ 11
Remote Control Operation .............................................................................................. 12
DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers..................................................................................................... 13
DMIX-41 Troubleshooting...................................................................................................... 14
DMIX-41 Specifications .........................................................................................................15
Audio Specifications ........................................................................................................ 15
Remote Control Specifications ........................................................................................ 15
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions ............................................................... 15
Inside the Module ........................................................................................... 16
In This Section ....................................................................................................................... 16
Before You Begin................................................................................................................... 16
Opening the Module ..............................................................................................................16
Closing the Module ................................................................................................................ 16
External Power ................................................................................................ 17
About Power Supplies ...........................................................................................................17
CE Compliance...................................................................................................................... 17
Portable Power Sources ........................................................................................................ 17
Power Supply Specifications ................................................................................................. 17
Power Supply Sources .......................................................................................................... 18

Introduction
DMIX-41 User Guide Page 1
What are SoundPals?
Each Graham-Patten SoundPals module is essentially a digital audio building block that can be
used independently, or interconnected to perform more advanced mixing and audio processing
functions.
SoundPals can be used in both standalone and system configurations:
•In a “standalone” configuration, each SoundPals module is designed to perform a specific
audio processing function such as ADAT-to-Analog conversion. In this way, each module
functions as a perfect low-cost adjunct to larger mixing consoles (such as the Graham-
Patten D/ESAM series) — for single-purpose processing tasks.
•In a “system” configuration, SoundPals can be linked to form more comprehensive digital
audio tools. For field recording, studio applications, and workstation applications,
SoundPals can be used to seamlessly perform functions that would otherwise require
extensive peripheral gear. Best of all, SoundPals “systems” can be re-configured quickly
and easily — to suit your changing audio production requirements.
All SoundPals modules are extremely compact, rugged, and identical in size for ease of
installation, interconnection, and use. In addition, SoundPals support AES3id. This allows
longer, more robust AES signal distribution using standard coaxial cable. Error free distances of
1000 feet can be attained using inexpensive coaxial cables.
Documentation Conventions
The following documentation conventions are used in this guide:
•Buttons, knobs, connectors, and switches are indicated in bold-faced capital letters. For
example:
Adjust the left GAIN TRIM to …
•Primary sections are listed in bold text, with a line above:
Primary Section
•Secondary sections are listed in bold text, with no line:
Secondary Section
Signals and Values
Note the following important information regarding audio signal level:
•AES3 = Balanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
•AES3id = Unbalanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
Warnings
Please observe the following important warnings:
•Heed all warnings on the unit and in the instructions.
•Do not use this product in or near water.
•Route power cords and other cables so that they are not likely to be damaged.
Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use only a
damp cloth.

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 2
Unpacking and Inspection
When you receive your SoundPals modules, inspect the cartons for signs of damage. Contact
your dealer and the shipper immediately if you suspect any damage has occurred during
shipping. Check the contents of each box to be sure that all parts are included. If any items are
missing, contact your dealer immediately.
Power Supply Note
SoundPals are delivered with a power connector only. A separate power supply must be
obtained. Graham-Patten offers several power solutions for both domestic and international
customers. Refer to “External Power” for detailed power specifications for users who wish to
configure their own power source, rather than purchase one from Graham-Patten.

DMIX-41
DMIX-41 User Guide Page 3
About the DMIX-41
The SoundPals DMIX-41 is a four stereo-channel digital sample rate converter and mixer that
mixes up to four, balanced AES inputs down to one balanced or unbalanced AES (or DATS)
output. Optionally, the unit accommodates up to four unbalanced inputs, remote input selection,
and remote timing master selection.
All “enabled” inputs (in any combination) are mixed onto the output bus with unity gain — levels
are not adjusted. Any signal that is not active is automatically muted. In addition, inputs need not
be synchronous if the optional sample rate converters (SRC’s) are installed. Output timing is
derived from the designated master input.
The DMIX-41 offers the following features:
•Optional remote input selection
•Optional remote timing master selection
•20-bit or 24-bit processing
•Active balanced and unbalanced outputs
•Continuous input status display via LED indicators
•Terminating or bridging inputs
•Four balanced AES inputs on XLR connectors, or (optionally) four DATS unbalanced
inputs on BNC connectors
•One AES balanced output (XLR), plus one simultaneous unbalanced output (DATS on
BNC)
•0 (zero) or 4 Sample Rate Converters (SRC’s)
•Optional rack mounting tray (1 RU)
•Compact size, rugged construction
Four different DMIX-41 models are available, per your specific studio or field requirements.
Select between balanced inputs on XLR connectors, or unbalanced inputs on BNC (DATS)
connectors. For both configurations, choose between 0 (zero) or 4 SRC’s (Sample Rate
Converters).
Model Description
A0 0 (zero) SRC’s, balanced inputs (XLR)
A4 4 SRC’s, balanced inputs (XLR)
B0 0 (zero) SRC’s, unbalanced inputs
(BNC)
B4 4 SRC’s, unbalanced inputs (BNC)

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 4
The figure below illustrates the DMIX-41’s front panel:
DMIX-41 DMIX-41
+6V
MASTER
54
32 6
AES OUT
1
CONTROL
ERROR
1
2
1
2
3
4
3
4
1) AES Balanced Output — provides AES balanced output via XLR connector. Output is
concurrent with the unbalanced output (BNC) — both can be used simultaneously.
2) AES Unbalanced Output — provides AES unbalanced output via BNC. Output is
concurrent with the balanced output (XLR) — both can be used simultaneously.
3) Remote Control — provides remote channel muting, and timing master selection. Refer
to the “DMIX-41 Remote Control” section for details.
4) Indicator LEDs — eight indicators are provided:
ERROR — four red LEDs are provided, one for each input. The following LED conditions
are possible:
•An ERROR LED lights when no signal is applied to the input, or when the signal
is not valid. A non-valid signal exhibits errors such as format violations, bit
errors, low level, or incorrect frequency.
•An ERROR LED blinks slowly when that input has been muted via the remote
control interface.
•When an input ERROR LED is lit (either continuously or blinking), the input signal
is muted.
MASTER — four green LEDs are provided, one for each input. The following LED
conditions are possible:
•A MASTER LED lights continuously when the input signal may be used as the
output timing reference.
•A MASTER LED blinks slowly when that input signal is in use as the output
timing reference.
•A MASTER LED is off when that input has been disabled as a timing master (via
remote control).
5) Power Connector — accepts the power jack from the 6VDC power supply. Refer to
“External Power” for more information regarding external power.
6) Power LED — the large green LED below the power jack lights when power is applied.

DMIX-41 User Guide Page 5
The figure below illustrates the DMIX-41’s rear panel:
AES IN 1 AES IN 2 AES IN 3 AES IN 4
MODEL A4
MADE IN THE USA
2 3 4 51
SRC SRC SRC SRC
1) DMIX-41 Model — the printed legend indicates the model: A0, A4, B0 or B4.
2) AES Input #1
3) AES Input #2
4) AES Input #3
5) AES Input #4
Note the following important points regarding each DMIX-41 input:
•In models A0 and A4, each input is balanced and equipped with an XLR connector.
•In models B0 and B4, each input is unbalanced and equipped with a BNC connector.
•If the label SRC appears above a connector, the input is equipped with a Sample Rate
Converter.
An SRC-equipped input does not have to be synchronous — in this way, mixing inputs at
various sample rates is allowed. The selected timing master determines the output
sample rate. Refer to the “DMIX-41 Remote Control” section for instructions on
selecting the timing master, and a description of the default timing master logic.

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 6
DMIX-41 Installation
This section provides instructions for connecting power, digital inputs and digital outputs.
NOTE •For details on connecting remote control, see the “DMIX-41 Remote
Control” section.
Connecting Power
Plug a 6 VDC power supply into the appropriate voltage outlet for your specific country, and
connect the end of the cord into the DMIX-41 jack marked +6V. Secure the locking ring finger
tight. The green LED below the jack lights when power is applied.
Connecting Inputs
Connect digital audio input signals to the 4 rear connectors marked AES IN 1 through AES IN 4.
Only the inputs marked SRC have internal sample rate converters. Please note:
•When using model A4 or B4 in an asynchronous environment, any signal may be
connected to any input. Any input can be assigned as the master. If no master is
assigned, the lowest-numbered, error-free input becomes the master.
•When using model A0 or B0 in a synchronous environment, any signal may be
connected to any input, but all four inputs must by synchronous. Once again, any input
can be assigned as the master.
NOTE Synchronous digital audio signals must be at exactly the same frequency (locked
to the same reference source), but they need not be in the same phase. Neither
AES bit phase, frame phase, nor block phase is important.
For all input connections, the corresponding red ERROR LED on the front panel will extinguish
when valid input signals are applied.
DMIX-41 normally terminates all digital inputs with 110
Ω(75 Ωfor B models). When it is
necessary to loop a signal to several SoundPals the signal must be terminated only once, and
always at the last unit in the chain. Refer to the “DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers” section for
information on changing the input from terminating to bridging.
Connecting Outputs
Take the digital audio output from one of the two connectors marked AES OUT, and route it to
the input of the desired destination device. Both AES3 and AES3ID outputs may be used
simultaneously.
Refer to the “DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers” section for information on changing the output channel
status bits and processing accuracy.

DMIX-41 User Guide Page 7
DMIX-41 Operation
This section provides information for local operation (when no remote control is connected), and
AC-3 operation.
NOTE For details on remote control connection and operation, please refer to the
“DMIX-41 Remote Control” section.
Local Operation
In the full “local” mode with your desired inputs connected (in an essentially “hands-off”
environment), the following mixing conditions are in effect:
•All valid inputs are mixed at unity gain onto the output bus.
•Any input that is not present (or not valid) is automatically muted, and its corresponding
red ERROR LED on the front panel will be lit.
•The lowest-numbered error free input is automatically assigned as the master, and the
AES output is timed to the master.
•Inputs can not be muted locally.
•A master can not be assigned locally.
AC-3 Operation
AC-3 is an audio compression system (designed by Dolby Labs) that transports up to 6 audio
channels. The AC-3 signal is compressed and passed through a single AES transport stream,
and a special decoder is required. The DMIX-41 can not mix AC-3 audio, but it can pass and
switch up to four AC-3 streams under the following conditions:
•Inputs are not equipped with SRC’s (sample rate converters).
•Remote control “input mute” switches are connected. Refer to the “DMIX-41 Remote
Control” section for details.
•The unit is set for 24-bit processing. Refer to the “DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers” section
for details.

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 8
DMIX-41 Interconnection
This section provides basic and advanced interconnection diagrams.
•Basic — Mixing Workstation Audio
In this application, digital audio from two workstations is combined, mixed in the DMIX-
41, and recorded on DAT. The DAC provides monitoring capability. Remote switching is
not required. If the DMIX is equipped with SRC’s, inputs can be asynchronous. If the
DMIX is not equipped with SRC’s, all inputs must be synchronous.
DAT Recorder
Stereo Headphones
SoundPals DMIX-41
AES In 1
AES In 2
AES In 3
AES In 4
PWR
Control
AES Out
SoundPals DAC-24
AES In
AES In
Right Out
Left Out
PWR
Headphones
Volume
R Trim
L Trim
Workstation
1
Workstation
2

DMIX-41 User Guide Page 9
•Basic — Audio Bypass Switch
In this application, the DMIX allows you to bypass a digital audio console, routing the air
feed either “direct” from the automation system or through the console. Remote
switching is required.
Three channels from the automation system are routed to both the DMIX and the
console, via bridging inputs on the DMIX. Additional general purpose inputs feed the
console. The console’s output is routed to the DMIX, and the DMIX output feeds the air
signal and the DAT. With the ability to mute any input, the remote control unit effectively
determines which set of outputs are routed to air. Similarly, the remote unit can
determine which input is assigned as master.
Remote
Control
Fidelipac Dynamax MX/D
Digital On-Air Console
(Audio by Graham-Patten)
Bridge
Bridge
Bridge
General Purpose Inputs
Term
Air
Feed
DAT Recorder
SoundPals DMIX-41
AES In 1
AES In 2
AES In 3
AES In 4
PWR
Control
AES Out
Automation System

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 10
•Advanced — Fade, Mix and Switch
In this advanced application, several SoundPals are combined to provide fade, mix, and
switching capability. An analog ATR is converted to digital in the ADC, routed to a
DFADE, and then to the DMIX. Dual mics are converted to digital in the DMIC, routed to
a second DFADE, and then to the DMIX. The DMIX remote control allows you to switch
between AES inputs 1 and 2, and select the timing master. The DFADE remotes allow
you to adjust levels.
Analog
Microphones Air
Feed
Remote
Control
Remote
Control
SoundPals ADC-24
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
PWR
R Trim
L Trim
AES Out
SoundPals DMIC-24
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
PWR
Sensitivity
AES Out
SoundPals DFADE-2
AES In
AES Out
PWR
R Trim
L Trim
Mode
Control
SoundPals DMIX-41
AES In 1
AES In 2
AES In 3
AES In 4
PWR
Control
AES Out
SoundPals DFADE-2
AES In
AES Out
PWR
R Trim
L Trim
Mode
Control

DMIX-41 User Guide Page 11
DMIX-41 Remote Control
This section provides remote control information for the DMIX-41.
Remote Control Connection
A remote controller unit (customer supplied) can be designed and connected to the 9-pin “D”
CONTROL connector on the front of DMIX-41 module. Once connected and properly wired, the
following remote control capabilities are provided:
•Input muting — this function sets which audio inputs are mixed to the audio output.
•Input master disable — this function determines which input is assigned as the output
timing reference.
The following table lists the pin-outs for the remote control interface:
Pin # Function
1 Input 1 master disable
2 Input 4 mute
3 Input 3 mute
4 Input 2 mute
5 Input 1 mute
6 Common
7 Input 4 master disable
8 Input 3 master disable
9 Input 2 master disable
The figure below illustrates one example of a remote control unit:
Remote Control Connector
Input 1 Mute (Switch 1) Input 1 Master Disable (Switch 5)
Input 2 Mute (Switch 2)
Input 3 Mute (Switch 3)
Input 4 Mute (Switch 4)
Input 2 Master Disable (Switch 6)
Input 3 Master Disable (Switch 7)
Input 4 Master Disable (Switch 8)
The following parts are required to build your remote control unit:
•Remote housing (case)
•8 switches
•1 (one) 9-pin “D” control connector
•Shielded multi-conductor cable
•Power is not required

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 12
Using the previous “pin-out” table as a guide, the following connections can be made:
•Connect the bottom lead of all switches to Common (pin 6)
•Connect the top lead of switch 1 to Input 1 Mute (pin 5)
•Connect the top lead of switch 2 to Input 2 Mute (pin 4)
•Connect the top lead of switch 3 to Input 3 Mute (pin 3)
•Connect the top lead of switch 4 to Input 4 Mute (pin 2)
•Connect the top lead of switch 5 to Input 1 Disable (pin 1)
•Connect the top lead of switch 6 to Input 2 Disable (pin 9)
•Connect the top lead of switch 7 to Input 3 Disable (pin 8)
•Connect the top lead of switch 8 to Input 4 Disable (pin 7)
NOTE Remote control signals are standard +5 V CMOS logic levels or contact closures to
common.
Remote Control Operation
With the remote control unit (customer supplied) connected to the DMIX-41, two remote operating
modes are provided:
•The remote “Mute” function allows you to select which inputs are mixed to the audio
output:
•The remote “Master disable” function allows you to determine which input is used as the
output timing reference.
To mute inputs:
1. Using the appropriate “Mute” switches on the DMIX remote control, turn the desired
combination of inputs off. Inputs that remain on are mixed to the audio output.
NOTE •An input’s associated red ERROR LED will blink slowly when that input has
been muted via the remote control.
•If an input is muted, it can still be the master.
To disable inputs as the master:
1. Using the appropriate “Master Disable” switches on the DMIX remote control, disable the
desired combination of inputs from being assigned as the master timing reference.
Note the following important points regarding the master assignment:
•One of the four inputs must always be assigned as the master. If all error-free inputs are
disabled via remote control, the output signal will be muted.
•Any input that is not displaying an error condition (as shown by a red ERROR LED) may
be used as the master.
•If an input is enabled as master, its associated green MASTER LED lights continuously.
•If an input is in use as the timing reference, its associated MASTER LED blinks slowly.
•If an input is disabled from being the master, its associated MASTER LED is off.
IMPORTANT The DMIX uses a priority system for assigning the master. Of all the inputs
“enabled” as master, the lowest-numbered, error-free input is used as the
master timing reference. If the current master develops an error, the next
lowest-numbered error-free input automatically becomes the master.

DMIX-41 User Guide Page 13
DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers
This section provides information about the DMIX-41’s internal jumpers and adjustments.
NOTE For detailed instructions on opening and closing the DMIX-41, see “Inside the
Module.”
The figure below shows the DMIX-41’s internal jumper locations:
J4
Input
Termination
Jum
p
ers
J5
J3
J2
DMIX 04-0221-
J6
20/24 Bit
Jum
p
er
J8
Channel
Status
Jum
p
er
•To change AES inputs from terminating to bridging, remove the desired combination of
jumpers J2, J3, J4, and J5.
•To change processing from 20 to 24 bits, install jumper J6.
•To change output channel status, change jumper J8 according to the table on the
following page.
Setting Output Channel Status
Output channel status bits and processing accuracy are set using jumpers J6 and J8.
IMPORTANT The factory default for jumper J6 and J8 is OFF. Note that 24-bit processing
may be used only if the source is 24-bits, if the source is not using the 4
auxiliary bits, and if the next set of equipment (in the audio chain) is set to
use 24-bits as audio data. In addition, 24-bit processing is only effective on
inputs without SRC’s.

DMIX-41 User Guide
Page 14
The table below lists the output channel status functions for jumpers J6 and J8:
J# Position Function
J6 Off Internal processing is 20-bit. Auxiliary data on input signals is discarded. Output
channel status bits are set to 20-bit mode.
On Internal processing is 24-bit. All 24-bits of input signals are used. Output
channel status bits are set to 24-bit mode.
J8a/b Off/Off Output emphasis not indicated.
On/Off Output indicates no emphasis.
Off/On
Output indicates 50/15
µs emphasis.
On/On Output indicates CCITT J.17 emphasis.
J8c/d Off/Off Output sampling frequency not indicated.
On/Off Output indicates 44.1 kHz sampling freq.
Off/On Output indicates 48 kHz sampling freq.
On/On Output indicates 32 kHz sampling freq.
J8e Off Output channel mode not indicated.
On Output indicates stereophonic mode.
DMIX-41 Troubleshooting
The table below lists DMIX-41 problems and solutions.
Problem Procedure
No signal at
either AES
output.
•Is power applied? Check LED and supply.
•Is there a current timing master? Check for flashing green LED. If yes, consult
factory.
•Is at least one input enabled as timing master? Check for a lit green master
LED. If none, remove remote control interface connector. Check connections.
•Does at least one input enabled as master have an error-free input? Check for
at least one continuously lit green LED with associated blinking or extinguished
red LED. If none, check AES input signal associated with each enabled master
showing errors.
No audio on
AES output.
•Is at least one error-free input not muted? Check for an extinguished red LED.
If none, remove remote control interface connector. Check connections. If still
none, check AES inputs for valid signals.
•Are all signals being mixed silent? Use DAC to check audio on all mixed inputs.
Remote
interface not
active.
•Remove the remote connector. Using a short wire connect pin 6 to each pin in
turn. If operation is correct check remote wiring and perform the following tests.
•Is remote interface driven with logic levels? If yes, check that the low level is
between 0 V and +1V with respect to the chassis. Check high level is between +
4V and +5 V with respect to the chassis.
•Is remote interface driven with contact closures? If yes, check that the common
is correctly connected. Check that the contact resistance is <100 Ω.
NOTE Please contact the GPS factory if the problem still exists after completing the
above procedures.