Lab.gruppen PLM Series User manual

Operation Manual
PLM™Series
Powered Loudspeaker Management™systems
Operation Manual
Rev 1.3.5
Item: OM-PLM
Operation Manual

Important Safety Instructions
i
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
1. Important Safety Instructions
Before using the device, be sure to carefully read the Safety Instructions. Keep this document with the device at all times.
1.1 Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including ampliers)
that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or
the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched,
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specied
by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a
cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. Use the mains plug to disconnect the apparatus from the
mains.
16. WARNING: To reduce the risk of re of electric shock, do not
expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
17. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and
ensure that no objects lled with liquids, such as vases, are
placed on the equipment.
18. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily
operable.
19. Do not connect the unit’s output to any other voltage source,
such as battery, mains source, or power supply, regardless
of whether the unit is turned on or off.
20. Do not remove the top (or bottom) cover. Removal of the
cover will expose hazardous voltages. There are no user
serviceable parts inside and removal may void the warranty.
21. An experienced user shall always supervise this professional
audio equipment, especially if inexperienced adults or
minors are using the equipment.
22. The US National Differences clause 16.3 requires that
network cables must be ame rated VW-1.
To prevent electric shock do not remove top or bottom covers.
No user serviceable parts inside, refer servicing to qualied
service personnel.
À prévenir le choc électrique n’enlevez pas les couvercles. Il n’y a
pas des parties serviceable à l’intérieur, tous reparations doit etre
faire par personnel qualié seulment.
To completely disconnect this equipment from the AC mains,
disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily
operable.
Pour démonter complètement l’équipement de l’alimentation
générale, démonter le câble d’alimentation de son réceptacle. La
prise d’alimentation restera aisément fonctionnelle.
1.2 Standards
This equipment conforms to the require-
ments of the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC
and the requirements of the Low Voltage
Directive 2006/95/EC.
Standards applied: EMC Emission
EN55103-1, E3
EMC Immunity EN55103-2, E3, with S/N
below 1% at normal operation level.
Electrical Safety EN60065, Class I
This equipment is tested and listed accord-
ing to the U.S. safety standard ANSI/ UL
60065 and Canadian safety standard CSA
C22.2 NO. 60065. Intertek made the tests
and they are a Nationally Recognized Test-
ing Laboratory (NRTL).
1.3 Explanation of Graphical Symbols
The lightning bolt triangle is used to alert the user to
the presence of un-insulated “dangerous voltages”
within the unit’s chassis that may be of sufcient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to
humans.
The exclamation point triangle is used to alert the
user to presence of important operating and service
instructions in the literature accompanying the
product.

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Important Safety Instructions
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
1.4 WARNING
To reduce risk of re or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
Pour réduire les risques de blessure ou le choc électrique, n’exposez pas l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité.
Do not expose this system/apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects lled with liquids, such
as vases, are placed on the apparatus.
L’appareil ne doit pas être exposé à des egouttements d’eau ou des éclaboussures et de plus qu’aucun objet
rempli de liquide tel que des vases ne doit pas être placé sur l’appareil.
This apparatus must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
Cet appareil doi t être raccordé á une prise de courant qui est branchée à la terre.
The mains plug is used as a disconnect device and shall remain readily operable.
Lorsque la prise du réseau d’alimentation est utilisés comme dispositif de déconnexion, ce dispositif doit
demeuré aisément accessible.
1.5 CAUTION
To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not remove screws. No user-serviceable parts inside.
Refer servicing to qualied service personnel.
Pour réduire le risque d’incendie ou de choc électrique, ne pas retirer les vis. Aucune pièce réparable par
l’utilisateur. Coner l’entretien àpersonnel qualié.
1.6 FCC Compliance Notice (Radio Interference)
A sample of this product has been tested and complies with the limits for the European Electro Magnetic
Compatibility (EMC) directive. This equipment has also 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 from electrical equipment. This product uses radio frequency energy
and if not used or installed in accordance with these operating instructions, may cause interference to other
equipment, such as radio receivers.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment on and off, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
▸Reorient or relocate the antenna.
▸Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

Important Safety Instructions
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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
▸Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
▸Check if the affected unit complies with the EMC limits for immunity, (CE-labeled). If not, address the
problem with the manufacturer or supplier. All electrical products sold in the EC must be approved for
immunity against electromagnetic elds, high voltage ashes, and radio interference.
▸Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
1.7 User Responsibility
1.7.1 Mains Connection Grounding
Your apparatus must be connected to a grounded socket outlet.
1.7.2 Speaker Output Hazard on Ampliers
Ampliers are capable of producing hazardous output voltages. To avoid electrical shock, do not touch
any exposed speaker wiring while the amplier is operating. The external wiring connected to the speaker
terminals shall be installed by a qualied person, or ready-made leads or cords of appropriate capacity shall
be used.
As the power output channels on ampliers produce high voltage, do not connect or disconnect
speaker cables when the mains power is on.
1.7.3 Speaker Damage
Amplier apparatus is very powerful and can be potentially dangerous to both loudspeakers and humans
alike. Many loudspeakers can be easily damaged or destroyed by overpowering them. Always check the
speaker’s continuous and peak power capabilities. Although the ampliers attenuators can be used to
reduce the overall gain, an increase of the input signal can result in full output power, which may cause
damage to connected speakers.
1.7.4 Maintenance
For safe and reliable operation, the dust lters on both sides of the front panel, behind the grilles, should be
removed and cleaned regularly to ensure maximum airow through the device.
If the dust lters are not maintained there will be safety risks; for example, high internal temperatures
could ignite the dust and start a re. There is also a risk that the unit will malfunction since it is dependent
on constant airow from front to rear. If the dust lters are not clean and the unit malfunctions, any resulting
problems will not be covered by the warranty.

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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
Table of Contents
1. Important Safety Instructions ................................................................................................................i
1.1 Important Safety Instructions ............................................................................................................... i
1.2 Standards .............................................................................................................................................. i
1.3 Explanation of Graphical Symbols......................................................................................................... i
1.4 WARNING ............................................................................................................................................ ii
1.5 CAUTION ............................................................................................................................................. ii
1.6 FCC Compliance Notice (Radio Interference)....................................................................................... ii
1.7 User Responsibility ..............................................................................................................................iii
2. Welcome ...................................................................................................................................................1
2.1 Introduction .........................................................................................................................................1
2.2 Main Features ......................................................................................................................................1
2.3 Additional Documentation....................................................................................................................3
3. Installation................................................................................................................................................4
3.1 Unpacking ............................................................................................................................................4
3.2 Mounting..............................................................................................................................................4
3.3 Cooling .................................................................................................................................................6
3.4 Operating Voltage ................................................................................................................................6
3.5 Grounding.............................................................................................................................................7
4. Product Overview....................................................................................................................................8
4.1 Front Panel Overview........................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Back Panel Overview ......................................................................................................................... 11
5. Operation and Performance ................................................................................................................. 15
5.1 Operation Precautions........................................................................................................................ 15
5.2 Power Output Performance ............................................................................................................... 15
5.3 Amplier and Load Protection Systems............................................................................................. 17
5.4 Power Supply .....................................................................................................................................24
6. Signal Flow and Lake®Processing.......................................................................................................25
6.1 Signal Flow ........................................................................................................................................25
6.2 Level Adjustments & Mute Points .....................................................................................................25
6.3 Lake Processing and Control..............................................................................................................27
6.4 Modules and Frames ........................................................................................................................28
6.5 Loudspeaker Processor Overview .....................................................................................................29
6.6 Files and Presets................................................................................................................................29
7. Front Panel Interface ............................................................................................................................. 31
7.1 O ver v iew ............................................................................................................................................ 31
7.2 Front Panel Key Lock..........................................................................................................................32
7.3 Power Button ..................................................................................................................................33

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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
7.4 Mute Enable Button ..........................................................................................................................33
7.5 Meter Button .....................................................................................................................................33
7.6 Menu Button ......................................................................................................................................33
7.7 Exit Button ........................................................................................................................................34
7.8 Dynamic Buttons, Controls and LEDs................................................................................................34
7.9 Warning and Fault Indications ............................................................................................................39
7.10 Meter Mode .......................................................................................................................................42
7.11 Menu Mode .......................................................................................................................................46
8. Back Panel Interface ..............................................................................................................................63
8.1 Speaker Outputs ................................................................................................................................63
8.2 Analog Inputs and Outputs ................................................................................................................68
8.3 AES3 Digital I/O ................................................................................................................................70
8.4 RJ45 etherCON Network Connections.............................................................................................. 71
8.5 Power Inlet .........................................................................................................................................72
9. Appendix................................................................................................................................................. 74
9.1 Faults and Warnings Overview .......................................................................................................... 74
9.2 Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................78
9.3 Factory Default Settings.....................................................................................................................78
9.4 Current Draw and Thermal Dissipation Specications.......................................................................79
9.5 Glossary of Terms, Acronyms and Abbreviations ..............................................................................83
10. Application Guide..................................................................................................................................86
10.1 Rack I/O Panels..................................................................................................................................86
10.2 Power Distribution..............................................................................................................................86
10.3 Gain Structure ....................................................................................................................................87
10.4 Gain / Level Optimization ...................................................................................................................89
10.5 Speaker Congurations ......................................................................................................................92
10.6 Digital Audio Connections..................................................................................................................93
10.7 Digital Clock Conguration.................................................................................................................96
11. Technical Specications .......................................................................................................................98
12. Warranty and Support ..........................................................................................................................99
12.1 General ..............................................................................................................................................99
12.2 International Warranties .....................................................................................................................99
12.3 Technical Assistance and Service ......................................................................................................99
12.4 Trademarks....................................................................................................................................... 100

Welcome
1
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
2. Welcome
2.1 Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Lab.gruppen PLM Series of Powered Loudspeaker Management systems for
your sound reinforcement needs. We are condent that you will be pleased with the performance, unique
features, conguration exibility, reliability, and long-term durability offered by this product.
For fast installation and use of this product, your welcome package includes a printed copy of the
PLM Series Quick Start & Field Reference Guide which contains the information required to safely install the
product and place it in service. Control and editing features are accessible via the front panel interface or via
the included Lake Controller software.
It is recommended that the Quick Start & Field Reference Guide and all product documentation on the
included CD-ROM / USB key is reviewed to ensure familiarity with the various conguration and control
options.
Thank you again for placing your condence in Lab.gruppen products.
2.2 Main Features
The PLM Series incorporates a number of sophisticated technologies to ensure the best possible perfor-
mance and many years of reliable operation. The following section summarizes the benets of each feature;
additional information is available in the reference manuals.
2.2.1 Amplier Platform
The PLM Series power output section has expanded upon Lab.gruppen’s robust, road-proven
FP+ Series ampliers. Features in common with the FP+ Series include extraordinary power density,
patented Class TD®output stages, Regulated Switch Mode Power Supply (R.SMPS™), the high-efciency
Intercooler®copper-nned cooling system, and a full suite of protection features. Signal inputs are analog,
AES digital, and Dante digital audio network; loop-through outputs or redundant pairs are provided for each
input type.
Please refer to section 5.3 for further information.
2.2.2 Amplier DSP (Digital Signal Processor)
Various features of PLM Series devices are controlled by the on-board DSP, some of which are summarized
in this section.

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Welcome
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
2.2.2.1 Input Gain (Sensitivity)
Input gain (sensitivity) is set in the digital domain for PLM Series devices, and may be controlled via the
Lake Controller software or front-panel interface.
2.2.2.2 ISVPL
™
The Inter-Sample Voltage Peak Limiter (ISVPL) tailors each power output to the characteristics of the
connected load. Please refer to section 5.3.1 for further information.
2.2.2.3 Load Verication & Performance Monitoring
A comprehensive set of proprietary DSP-based tools are provided for load verication and real-time perfor-
mance monitoring. These functions utilize LoadLibrary, a comprehensive database for each loudspeaker
component of the connected load (usually one or more band-limited drivers in a multi-way system).
Using this data and a brief test signal, LoadSmart compares actual response to predicted response, identify-
ing any malfunctioning components or connection errors. During the performance, SpeakerSafe™monitors
real-time load status, including temperatures of the PLM amplier stages as well as magnets and voice
coils of connected loudspeakers. This allows operators to avoid power compression and identify potential
problems.
Please refer to the Lake Controller Operation Manual for detailed information on PLM Series load verication
and real-time performance monitoring functionality.
2.2.3 Lake Processing and Controller
PLM Series devices integrate seamlessly into the Lake Processing environment and are accessible via the
Lake Controller software. Processing modules offer precise settings for gain, delay, crossover settings,
equalization and limiting. Lake processing features incorporated in each module include Raised Cosine
Equalization™, linear phase crossovers, and LimiterMax™loudspeaker protection. The Super Module feature
allows hardware processing modules in two or more separate devices to function as a single module in the
Lake Controller software. Please refer to the Lake Controller Operation Manual for further information.
2.2.4 Analyzer Plug-In
Lake Controller software provides integration with third-party real-time analyzers, providing simultaneous
measurement display and EQ adjustment via the Lake Controller. Approved analyzers include Rational
Acoustics Smaart 7, SysTune from AMFG, and WaveCapture Live‐Capture Light or Live-Capture Pro; ad-
ditional third-party analyzers may be approved in the future.
Please refer to the Lake Controller Operation Manual for further information regarding the Analyzer plug-in
and associated functionality.

Welcome
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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
2.2.5 Dante™Audio Network
PLM Series devices include Dante digital audio networking as standard. Utilizing the latest advances in
Ethernet technology, Dante offers simplied system conguration and extremely low latency while deliver-
ing very high quality uncompressed digital audio across the Lake network. The Zen™automatic conguration
feature enables plug-and-play setup without third-party DHCP or DNS servers. Dante is compatible with
high-bandwidth networks, allowing large numbers of audio channels to be distributed alongside control and
analyzer data.
2.3 Additional Documentation
This document, the PLM Operation Manual, serves as the primary reference source for detailed informa-
tion on the installation and operation of PLM Series Powered Loudspeaker Management systems. It also
provides detailed information on set-up and conguration using the front-panel interface.
If you intend to use the device as part of a networked system, or access features via the Lake Controller,
please refer to the various supporting documents which can be located via these methods:
▸Start > Programs > Lake Controller > Documentation (after installing Lake Controller software)
▸On the included installer CD-ROM / USB key, or via the downloaded software installer
▸Online at: http://labgruppen.com/products/documentation/

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Installation
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
3. Installation
3.1 Unpacking
Carefully open the shipping carton and check for any damage to the device or the supplied accessories.
Every Lab.gruppen product is tested and inspected before leaving the factory and should arrive in perfect
condition. If any damage is discovered, please notify the shipping company immediately. Only the consignee
may initiate a claim with the carrier or their insurers for damage incurred during shipping. Save the carton
and packing materials for the carrier’s inspection.
In addition to the PLM Series device, the shipping carton include the following items:
▸PLM Series Quick Start & Field Reference Guide
▸AC mains lead (power cable) with Neutrik®powerCON®connector
▸Rear brackets for additional rack support (pair) along with associated mounting hardware
▸Software Installer and Documentation CD-ROM or USB key
Please keep the original carton and associated packaging to facilitate shipping of the device should the need
arise.
3.2 Mounting
Airow for cooling the device is from front panel (intake) to rear panel (exit). Please ensure that no object,
such as rack doors or lids are placed at the front or rear of the rack to ensure that airow is maximized. This
device has no top or bottom vents and therefore may be stacked directly on top of each other.
Sufcient space should be available at the front of the rack to accommodate the handles, and at the rear to
accommodate connectors and cables; allowance must be made for cable or loom bends within a rack.
3. 2 .1 Rear Mounting
Two rear support brackets along with associated mounting hardware are included with the PLM, as shown
in Figure 3-1; it is recommended that these are used wherever possible. Fit the brackets to the vertical rails
at the rear of the rack. Figure 3-2 and Figure 3-3 show the tting options for xed and removable installation.
The support brackets are reversible and may be tted to point either to the front or rear of the rack; the
orientation used depends on the rack depth and position of the rear rack rails.
Two mounting methods are possible; note that the method shown in Figure 3-2 additionally provides extra
security against unauthorized removal. For situations where rapid removal and replacement is required, the
method shown in Figure 3-3 should be used.

Installation
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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
Figure 3-1: Rear Support Bracket and Mounting Hardware
Figure 3-2: Use the Washer for Fixed Installations
Figure 3-3: UseTube for Slide-On Installation

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Installation
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
3.3 Cooling
3.3.1 Overview
The PLM Series devices use a forced-air cooling system with airow from front to rear, allowing high
continuous power levels without thermal problems. Front-to-rear airow is preferable as air at the front of
a rack is cooler than that at the rear in nearly all situations; never attempt to reverse the airow. The opera-
tion of the PLM’s cooling system is dependent on front-to-rear airow; it will not function effectively with
external airow in the opposite direction.
Make sure an adequate air supply is provided in front of the PLM, and that the rear of the PLM has
sufcient space to allow air to escape. If the PLM is rack-mounted, never operate the unit with any front or
rear rack doors or covers in position. It is recommended to keep the ambient temperature around the PLM
as cool as possible. An increased temperature can have a signicant negative impact on the expected
lifetime on the components inside the PLM.
Fit solid blanks (not ventilation blanks) to unused
rack spaces to ensure effective air circulation.
Leaving gaps in between items of equipment
degrades the effectiveness of forced-air cooling.
If installing one or more PLM Series devices in a rack with other fan-cooled equipment, be sure that all
the other equipment also uses front-to-rear airow for cooling. If this precaution is not observed, there is a
risk of overheating, as units with the reverse airow will be drawing in air which has already been heated by
the PLMs.
3.3.2 Temperature Sensing and Protection
The PLM is equipped with a sophisticated temperature sensing system which protects it from any overheat-
ing which may occur as a result of inadequate ventilation.
Always ensure the dust lters behind the detach-
able front panel are clean to ensure maximum
possible airow.
3.4 Operating Voltage
The label adjacent to the mains (AC) input connector indicates the AC mains voltage for which the
device is wired and approved. The PLM 10000Qand PLM 14000 devices are available in separate 115 V and
230 V versions; the PLM 20000Q is only available with a universal power supply operating from 80 to 265 V.
Only connect the mains cable (AC cord) to an AC source of the voltage shown on the label.

Installation
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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
The PLM uses primary switching, which means the mains power is rectied on the primary side of the
transformer. This makes the power supply insensitive to mains frequency variation, and it will operate
normally on line frequencies from 45 to 75 Hz.
If the mains plug (AC plug) tted to the mains cable (AC cord) is not appropriate for your country, it can be
removed and a locally-sourced one tted instead, observing the color coding in the table below:
powerCON Pin 230 V Version 115 V Version
LBrown Black
NBlue White
Green/Yellow Green
Table 3-1: AC Plug Conguration
If you are not 100% condent of your competence to replace the mains plug (AC plug), the task should
be carried out by qualied personnel.
Once a suitable AC power supply is connected, the device can be turned on using the front panel power
button. When the device is turned on, the power button LED changes from red (Standby) to green (Active).
In-rush current is controlled and limited during the
soft-start sequence. This enables multiple PLMs on
the same AC mains circuit to be turned on simulta-
neously.
3.5 Grounding
Analog inputs feature Iso-Float™ground isolation, a technology which combines the benets of transformer-
coupled isolation with the advantages of clean, direct-coupled inputs.
The audio converters are galvanically isolated, and not connected to mains ground. High-speed transformers
and opto-isolators create a barrier between the device and the outside electrical environment.
The Iso-Float feature is activated by default, but may
be disabled via the Lake Controller software, or via
the front panel menu.
Use correctly-shielded balanced audio input connections to minimise hum and interference. Please refer to
section 8.2.4 for further information.
NEVER disconnect the earth (ground) pin on the mains cable (AC power cord).

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Product Overview
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
4. Product Overview
This chapter provides an overview of key features and functionality. For further information please see
chapters 5 to 10 of this Operation Manual.
4.1 Front Panel Overview
Figure 4-1: Front Panel Overview
The front panel controls are clustered around a daylight readable LCD , allowing adjustment and monitor-
ing of the majority parameters and meters. The two clusters of controls on either side of the LCD include
ve dedicated function buttons , eight dynamic function buttons with embedded LEDs
and a rotary data encoder .
Handles
Two sturdy cast aluminium handles are integrated into the front panel. The handles should be used when
carrying the device, and when tting into or removing from a rack. Ensure that any door or removable rack
front cover has sufcient depth to clear the handles.
Dust Filters
Two dust lters are tted behind metal covers. To remove the covers, loosen the thumbscrews located
behind the handles. Once detached, the dust lter elements can be removed for cleaning; please refer to
section 9.2 for further information.
NEVER operate this device without the dust lters
in place.

Product Overview
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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
Display
The display illuminates when the device is on. The LCD, function buttons, and the rotary encoder provide
real-time control and monitoring of most parameters. The LEDs embedded in the function buttons indicate
available menu options, provide conrmation of Controller communication, and indicate various faults and
warnings.
The brightness and contrast of the display and front panel LEDs can be adjusted via the front panel menu.
Please refer to chapter 7 for further details.
Standby
PLM Series devices are powered on and to standby using the top-left button, or via the Lake Controller.
Mute Enable
Select MUTE ENABLE to allow the dynamic function buttons to operate as mute controls for the Module
inputs and power output channels. The MUTE ENABLE button ashes when the mode is selected; a
subsequent press deselects this mode. If left activated, MUTE ENABLE mode will automatically disable two
minutes after the last mute action.
Meter
The METER button scrolls through various meter views including the default Home View, Module View,
Temperature View and Input View. Pressing METER from Menu Mode returns the screen to Meter Mode
with the Home View displayed. Please refer to section 7.5 for further details.
Menu
After pressing the MENU button, the LCD will display the top level menu. In Menu Mode the dynamic
function buttons enable access to various information and functionality. Please refer to section 7.6 for further
details.
Dynamic Function Buttons with LEDs (Left of LCD)
The function of these buttons change according to the currently selected view or menu.
▸In Menu Mode they are used for menu navigation and for parameter selection
▸In Meter Mode they provide Module input mute/unmute functionality in conjunction MUTE ENABLE

10
Product Overview
PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
The LED in the top button provides Frame fault and warning indications. The middle two buttons provide
Module input mute functionality, mute indication and faults and warning indications relating to the PLM
inputs. The bottom button is used only in Menu Mode or to lock the front panel buttons.
Please refer to chapter 7 for further details.
Dynamic Function Buttons with LEDs (Right of LCD)
The function of these buttons change according to the currently selected view or menu.
▸In Menu Mode they are used for menu navigation and for parameter selection
▸In Meter Mode they provide PLM output mute/unmute functionality in conjunction MUTE ENABLE
All LEDs provides mute, clip, fault and warning indications for the PLM power outputs channels.
Please refer to chapter 7 for further details.
Communication LED
The high-intensity white LED illuminates white to indicate that the Module/Frame is selected in the
Lake Controller; it ashes white to indicate communication with the Lake Controller.
The brightness of the LCD and communications LED can be adjusted in the Frame page of the Main Menu
on the front panel.
Rotary Encoder
The rotary encoder is used to modify various parameters (e.g. input level) via the menu. When a menu item
is selected that permits adjustment of parameter values, the ring around the rotary encoder illuminates. In
Home View the encoder can be used to scroll through the Meter Views.
Exit
The EXIT button is used primarily while navigating the menu system in Menu Mode; pressing EXIT will
return the menu up one level. In Meter Mode, pressing EXIT returns the metering display to the default
Home View.

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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
4.2 Back Panel Overview
Figure 4-2: Back Panel Layout Options for a 4-channel PLM
Figure 4-3: Back Panel Layout Options for a 2-channel PLM

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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
4.2.1 Input and Link Connectors
Analog Inputs
Analog inputs are available on two standard XLR3F latching connectors. The inputs are electronically
balanced and feature Lake Iso-Float circuitry. The impedance is 20 kohms, and the inputs can accept a
maximum input level of +26 dBu.
Analog Links
Two latching XLR3M connectors are tted adjacent to the analog input connectors. These are paralleled to
the input connectors to provide an unprocessed analog loop-through to feed additional PLM Series units, or
other equipment.
AES3 Inputs
A latching XLR3F connector is provided which accepts an AES3 digital audio signal. Input impedance is 110
ohms, please ensure that 110 ohm digital audio cables are used; standard XLR microphone cables are rarely
suitable for reliable digital audio transmission.
AES3 is a stereo digital format, and therefore both
PLM inputs are fed via a single connector. Selection
of the analog or digital inputs is made via the front
panel display or control software.
AES3 Link
A latching XLR3M connector is tted adjacent to the AES3 input connector. This is paralleled to the input
connector to provide an unprocessed AES3 loop-thru to feed further PLMs, or other equipment. An AES3
110 ohm termination load is enabled by default when the PLM is the last unit connected within an AES3
daisy-chained system. The termination may be disabled, if desired, via the front panel menu and within the
Lake Controller software.
4.2.2 Output Connectors
The PLM is available with a choice of connectors for power outputs: binding posts or Neutrik speakON®.
Both connection methods allow for Bridge Mode operation, which is activated from the Lake Controller
software. Please refer to the Lake Controller Operation Manual and section 8.1.1 of this Operation Manual
for further information on Bridge Mode.

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PLM Series Operation Manual Rev 1.3.5
Binding Posts
In this version, the power outputs for loudspeaker connection are available on four separate pairs of fully
enclosed binding posts. Bridge Mode can be enabled via the Lake Controller software, please refer to the
Lake Controller Operation Manual for further information.
Channel conguration for the binding posts is dependent on the PLM model, please refer to section 8.1.3 of
this Operation Manual for standard and Bridge Mode wiring.
speakON Connectors
The speakON connector conguration differs on 2-channel and 4-channel PLM models.
On 4-channel models, the power outputs are simultaneously available on a single 8-pole speakON connec-
tor, and on two 4-pole speakON connectors. The two 4-pole connectors carry the outputs of channels 1 & 2
and 3&4respectively.
On 2-channel PLM models the two power output channels are available simultaneously on two 4-pole
speakON connectors. Both connectors carry both channels. The second connector offers the channels in
reverse order.
Bridge Mode can be enabled via the Lake Controller software, please refer to the Lake Controller Opera-
tion Manual and to the PLM Operation Manual for further details on standard and Bridge Mode wiring for
speakON connectors.
4.2.3 Ethernet and Power Connectors
Primary Network Connector
The primary Neutrik RJ45 etherCON®connection provides integration into an Ethernet control network
which may include other Lake Processors and the Lake Controller software. Network connection permits full
control of all functions along with real-time metering from a remote position. This device supports the Dante
audio networking protocol, which allows transmission of multichannel, high-denition digital audio over the
same Ethernet connection.
Use the primary connector when using a star network topology, consisting of individual Cat-5e connections
between the devices and an Ethernet switch. Alternatively this connection can be used to daisy chain
directly to another Lake Processor. The daisy chain topology should not be used with Dante.
For a technical reference of the Ethernet Port, please refer to section 8.4 . Additional information is also
available in the Lake Network Conguration Guide.

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The Ethernet ports operate at the Ethernet data rate of 100 Mbps, and
allow straight or crossed network cables. Two LEDs above each port
indicate valid network connection (LINK) and network activity (ACT).
Secondary Connector
The secondary network connector can be used to daisy-chain multiple LM & PLM Series devices. Alterna-
tively, a Dante dual-network topology can be created by connecting all secondary network connectors to a
separate Ethernet switch, ensuring full redundancy in the event of a network component failure.
Additional processor conguration is required for a
dual redundant network setup. See the Lake
Controller Operation Manual for further details.
For a technical reference of the Ethernet Port, please refer to section 8.4 . Additional information is also
available in the Lake Network Conguration Guide.
When connecting multiple devices to an Ethernet
network, care must be taken NOT to create a closed
loop which causes network malfunction.
Mains Power Connector
The mains power AC input is via a Neutrik powerCON connector, rated at 32 A.
The power supply must be connected to AC mains using a power cable with a correctly wired plug for the
country of operation.