Lectronics Wideband User manual

Venue Wideband Receiver
Modular Receiver/Multicoupler System
INSTALLATION GUIDE
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
www.lectrosonics.com
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Purchase Date:
Hardware/Software Installation and Configuration
Includes three models:
• Wideband (blocks 21 through 29)
• Wideband Low (blocks 470 through 26)
• Wideband High (blocks 25 through 33)

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
2

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 3
Introduction
The Venue Wideband receiver is a modular rack mount
design for use with a wide variety of transmitters from
Lectrosonics and other manufacturers. Designed for
maximum versatility and performance, the wideband
design offers the flexibility needed in today’s changing
and increasingly congested RF environments.
A Venue receiver is a “system” that consists of a master
unit and up to six receiver modules. Two different types
of receiver modules are available. The standard module
(VRS) is an excellent choice for fixed installations where
fairly clear RF spectrum is available. The tracking mod-
ule (VRT) is a more costly alternative, but its tracking
front-end makes it the better choice for use in congest-
ed RF environments. VRpanel software is included to
simplify setup and monitoring.
This guide covers the essential steps and settings
needed to get a Venue system up and running. It covers
the hardware installation, configuration using the LCD
on the master unit, setting up a USB port on the com-
puter and installing the VRpanel software.
LecNet2 software runs under Microsoft Windows®XP,
VistaTM and Windows 7 operating systems.* An online
Help in the software includes a listing of commands
used to control the Venue through the serial ports.
* Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp.
Vista is a trademark of Microsoft Corp.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equip-
ment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio com-
munications. 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 recep-
tion, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encour-
aged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorientorrelocatethereceivingantenna
• Increasetheseparationbetweentheequipmentandreceiver
• Connecttheequipmentintoanoutletonacircuitdifferentfromthatwhichthereceiv-
er is connected
• Consultthedealeroranexperiencedradio/TVtechnicianforhelp
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by Lectrosonics, Inc.
could void the user’s authority to operate it.

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
4

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 5
Table of Contents
Introduction............................................................................ 3
Venue System Controls and Functions............................... 6
Front Panel........................................................................... 6
Rear Panel ........................................................................... 7
Hardware Installation ............................................................ 8
Receiver Modules ................................................................ 8
Rack Installation................................................................... 8
Audio Outputs ...................................................................... 8
RS-232 Port Pinouts ............................................................ 9
Connections for Computer Interface .................................... 9
Initial Startup ....................................................................... 10
Navigating the LCD Menus and Screens........................... 11
Resetting to Factory Defaults............................................. 12
System Setup with the LCD................................................ 12
Selecting Compatibility Modes........................................... 12
Selecting the Noise Reduction Mode................................. 12
Selecting Diversity Modes.................................................. 13
Selecting the Tuning Mode................................................. 14
Finding Clear Frequencies with SmartTune ....................... 14
Finding Clear ChannelsUsing Full Spectrum Scan............ 15
Adjusting Audio Output Levels ........................................... 16
Selecting Audio Phase....................................................... 16
Selecting Transmitter Battery Status Monitoring Mode ...... 17
Locking Out the Front Panel Controls ................................ 18
Installing LecNet2™Software and USB Driver .................. 19
Firmware Update Instructions............................................ 21
Setting Up the Venue Receiver Using VRpanel................. 22
Opening VRpanel with USB Port ....................................... 22
Opening VRpanel with a COM Port ................................... 22
VRpanel Main Window....................................................... 22
Main Window Top Menu Items ........................................... 23
Popup Menu Items............................................................. 23
Antenna Use and Placement .............................................. 25
Powering Remote RF Amplifiers ........................................ 25
Pre-coordinated Frequencies............................................. 26
Compatible Frequency Table.............................................. 26
Compatibility Diagram........................................................ 27
Diagnostics .......................................................................... 28
Multi-channel System Checkout......................................... 28
Pilot Tone Bypass............................................................... 28
Accessories and Common Replacement Parts ................ 29
Remote Antennas .............................................................. 29
Coaxial Cable..................................................................... 29
Coaxial RF Amplifier .......................................................... 29
Common Replacement Parts............................................. 29
Service and Repair .............................................................. 30
Returning Units for Repair ................................................. 30

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
6
POWER Button
Headphone LEVEL Control
PHONES Jack
Receiver Select
Buttons
Function Button
(labeled by the LCD)
BACK Button
PUSH FOR
MENU/SELECT
Rotary Control
The Venue receiver master unit (VRM) serves as a
“host assembly” for up to six receiver modules. The
standard module (VRS) and tracking module (VRT) can
be mixed and matched in the assembly in any combina-
tion to suit the needs of various applications.
The VRM front panel provides an LCD for system setup,
monitoring and troubleshooting. During normal opera-
tion, the LCD shows RF and audio levels, diversity
status, pilot tone status (where applicable) and transmit-
ter battery status (in certain modes) for all six receivers
at the same time. Individual screens for each receiver
provide additional information and adjustments.
A built-in analyzer scans the tunable spectrum of the
receiver to assist in finding clear operating frequencies.
The spectrum scan data is presented in a graphical
format on the LCD.
POWER Button
Turns the power on and off. A brief press also clears the
spectrum scan data after the spectrum analyzer has
been used. Press and hold the button for a few seconds
to turn the unit off.
Function Button
Used for various functions in selected Setup Screens as
labeled on the LCD.
BACK Button
The Back Button is used to return to the previous menu
or setup screen.
LCD Screen
The LCD is a backlit, graphics-type Liquid Crystal Dis-
play used to set up and monitor system operation.
Venue System Controls and Functions
Receiver Select Buttons
The six Receiver Select Buttons are used to select indi-
vidual installed receiver modules, for monitoring via the
PHONES jack and for setup and adjustment.
PUSH FOR MENU/SELECT Rotary Control
Thiscontrol,calledtheMENU/SELECTcontrolfor
short, is a pushbutton switch and rotary knob used for
navigating and selecting setup menus and screens, and
for selecting parameters within the setup screens.
PHONES Jack and LEVEL Control
The LEVEL control is used to adjust the output level
of the front panel PHONES jack for individual chan-
nel monitoring. It does not affect the output levels at
the rear panel XLR jacks. Only the audio from a single
receiver (or a diversity pair) selected via the Receiver
Select Buttons will be present at this jack.
The PHONES jack can also used as an audio output for
recording when using the Walk Test Recorder.
NOTE: An explanation of the Walk Test Recorder
is presented in the section entitled Setting Up the
Venue Receiver Using VRpanel.
Front Panel

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 7
The rear panel provides six balanced XLR audio out-
puts, antenna inputs, “loop thru” antenna outputs from
an internal multicoupler, a power jack with a locking
connector, plus USB and RS-232 serial ports for setup
and control.
Receiver Modules
Up to six receiver modules can be installed in each
Venue receiver rack mount chassis. Spring tensioned
clips retain the receiver modules to maintain secure
connections with the host assembly.
Audio Outputs
Six balanced XLR audio output jacks connect the Venue
receiver to external equipment. By default, pin 2 is au-
dio pos (+). The polarity of each output can be reversed
in the LCD setup menus or with the software.
Power Input
The receiver is powered from +10 VDC to +18 VDC,
with the center pin of the connector positive (+). The
input is diode protected to prevent damage if the power
is accidentally applied with reversed polarity. The con-
nector includes a threaded locking sleeve.
RS-232 Port
A serial RS-232 interface is provided for setup and
control of the Venue System from computers or other
devices using industry standard RS-232 communication
links.
Antenna Inputs
The two outermost BNC connectors are provided for
use with right-angle whip antennas, cables from remote
antennas, or cables from another Venue receiver. DC
voltage can be supplied on these connectors from an
internal source to power remote RF amplifiers. The
power is enabled with jumpers on the circuit board. See
the section on Antenna Use and Placement for details.
Multicoupler Outputs
The built-in antenna multicoupler provides RF distribu-
tion for the six receiver modules and a “loop thru” output
at the same level to deliver the RF signal to another
Venue receiver. The second receiver can then feed a
third receiver and so on, to create a “stack” that oper-
ates with a single pair of antennas. The result is very
efficient use of rack space and a cost savings by not
having to purchase a separate antenna multicoupler.
Note: Venue receivers with a 50 MHz bandwidth
must be on the same frequency blocks to use the
antenna loop through.
USB Port
Standard USB Version 1.1 port for setup and control of
the receiver from computer systems using Windows®
2000, XP, VistaTM Windows 7 operating systems.
Rear Panel
Multicoupler Outputs
Receiver
Modules 4-6
Receiver
Modules 1-3
USB PortRS-232
Port
Antenna Inputs
Balanced Audio
Outputs 1-3
Balanced Audio
Outputs 4-6
Power Input

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
8
Rack Installation
1. Mount the receiver(s) in the desired rack location(s).
There are no special ventilation requirements.
2. Connect the antennas or coaxial cables to the
antenna input connectors (outermost) on the rear
panel.
Note: The frequency bandwidth of the antennas
must cover the range of the modules in use.
3. For multiple unit installations, a “loop thru” is avail-
able to feed two or three receivers from a single
antenna pair. Connect coaxial cables from the mul-
ticoupler outputs on the first receiver to the antenna
inputs on the next receiver in the stack.
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
The outermost connectors are the inputs connected
to the antennas on the first unit in the stack. The
innermost connectors are the outputs that feed the
next assembly in the rack.
4. Plug the power supply into a suitable outlet and
plug the power connector into the Power Input Jack.
5. Turn down the audio inputs on all the externally
connected equipment, then connect cables to the
appropriate Audio Output XLR Jacks.
Audio Outputs
Balanced XLR audio outputs on the rear panel can be
used to drive balanced or unbalanced inputs at line
level on any type of mixer, recorder or other type of
audio equipment.
Note: When the modules are paired for diversity
operation, the audio will appear at both XLR jacks
associated with the module pair.
Hardware Installation
Receiver Modules
VRS and VRT receiver modules can be mixed in the
same chassis, For ratio diversity operation, both mod-
ules in the pair must be on the same frequency block
and positioned in the assembly in keeping with the
OPTI-BLEND labeling on top of the chassis housing.
All modules must be within the frequency passband of
the host assembly. Frequency blocks are marked on the
receiver module and chassis housings.
Installing Receiver Modules
1. Turn the power off.
The receiver modules interface with the main as-
sembly through multi-pin connectors on either side
of the chassis. Insert the module straight down and
then slide it toward the main housing to insert the
connector pins. The module should sit flush against
the side of the housing.
Caution: Make sure the connectors align
correctly. Do not force the module onto the tab.
Excessive force may damage the connectors.
2. Align the ridge on the retaining clip with the slot in
the chassis and press the clip downward until the
ridge snaps into the slot in the side panel.
Removing Receiver Modules
1. Turn the power off.
2. Remove the retaining clip by pressing on it side-
ways to release it from the slot in the side panel.
Then pull upward to remove it.
3. Pull outward on the module to release the connec-
tor and then lift it upward out of the chassis. Holes
in the underside of the chassis allow you to grip the
module on the top and bottom.
Front panel
Retaining
clips

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 9
Connections for Computer Interface
Connection to a computer can be made via USB or
RS-232 ports. Multiple units are easily connected using
a USB hub.
NOTE: Audio is not passed through these ports.
They are used only for control and monitoring.
A single receiver connects directly to the computer.
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
Multiple receivers can be conveniently connected
through a USB hub. VRpanel software allows panes to
be added to the control panel main window to commu-
nicate with all receivers simultaneously.
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
USB Hub
One or more Venue receivers can also be con-
nected via multiple RS-232 ports on PC-
MCIA cards and remote control systems.
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
10.5-18VDC
RS-232
654LINK 2 321
IN USBIN OUT OUT
ANTENNA A
LINK 1
LINK 3
1
3
21
3
21
3
2
ANTENNA B
1
3
2 1
3
21
3
2
The audio output wiring is as follows:
(+)
1
(-)
SHIELD SHIELD
(+)
(-)
2
3
(+)
1
(-)
SHIELD SHIELD
(+)
2
3
(+)
1
(-)
SHIELD SHIELD
(+)
2
3
Venue
Output
Audio
Input
Balanced with 3-wire cable
Unbalanced with 3-wire cable
Unbalanced with 2-wire cable
RS-232 Port Pinouts
Port wiring for the LecNet2 interface is as follows:
S
R
T
Wiring Diagram, 9 Pin D-Sub
N/C CD
LecNet Device Tr ansmit RX
Tip
LecNet Device Receive TX
Ring
Gnd
Gnd
Sleeve DTR
DSR
RTS
CTS
Wiring Diagram, 25 Pin D-Sub
N/CRI
LecNet Device Tr ansmit RX
Tip
LecNet Device Receive TX
Ring
Gnd
Chassis Gnd
Sleeve Sig Gnd
RTS
CTS
DSR
DTR
LecNet Port
9 or 25 Pin Female
D - Subminiature
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
3
2
7
1
4
5
6
20
Host
Serial
Port
(PC)
Host
Serial
Port
(PC)
LecNet Port
3.5 MM
Stereo Plug
LecNet Device to PC
NOTE: Convenient ethernet to RS-232 interfaces
are available from Extron®Electronics.*
Visit: www.extron.com and search for “IPL T” on
the home page.
Com 1
Com 2
Extron®is a registered trademark of Extron Electronics.

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
10
Initial Startup
When the Venue receiver is first powered up the LCD
will show the firmware revision and the tuning range of
the host assembly.
As the boot sequence continues, the display will switch
to an overview of all six receiver channels. In this ex-
ample, six receiver modules are installed but no trans-
mitters are turned on. In this case the “P” will be blinking
since no pilot tone is detected.
The wideband Venue receiver is different than the 50
MHz version in that the receiver modules are detected
through a manual process rather than automatically at
bootup.PresstheMENU/SELECTcontrolandrotateit
to select “Detect” on the menu.
PresstheMENU/SELECTcontroltolaunchthedetec-
tion process.
It takes about 45 seconds to detect all the modules and
update the memory in the host assembly. Once com-
pleted, the LCD will briefly display the results showing
the frequencies of the installed modules.
If a slot is not occupied by a module, the display will
place an “X” in that position.
The display then switches to the overview of all six
channels.
Any slot that is not occupied by a module will leave a
blank space in the overview display.
If a module in any position has been removed, changed
or added since the last use, the LCD will flash a mes-
sage advising that the Detect process needs to be run
again.
In normal operation with all six channels running, the
overview display will include:
 • Audiolevel
 • RFlevel
 • Diversityantennaphaseactivity
 • Pilottonestatus
 • Transmitterbatterystatus
Audio level
RF level Transmitter
battery status
Pilot tone status
Diversity activity
(in Switched mode)
Once the initial startup is complete, go to the next
section of this manual for details on setup and
configuration options.
To power off the unit, press and hold the red power
switch for several seconds. The LCD will display a mes-
sage briefly then power down.

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 11
Navigating the LCD Menus
and Screens
Front panel controls provide access to screens and
menus for setup. The Function Button, Back Button, Re-
ceiverSelectbuttonsandtheMENU/SELECTcontrol
are used to make selections and adjust parameters.
Function Button (labeled by the LCD)
Back Button Receiver Select
Buttons 1-6
MENU/SELECT
Control
The overview screen displays a summary of all six
channels, as shown above. This is a good starting point
for navigating to any menu or setup screen. Pressing
the BACK button repeatedly from any menu or screen
will eventually return to this overview screen.
From the overview screen, pressing one of the six
Receiver Select Buttons will switch to the detail screen
for the associated receiver module to display all current
settings, levels and status.
Receiver Module
Location
Pilot Tone
Monitoring Status
Operating
Frequency
RF Signal
Strength
Antenna Phase
Transmitter
Battery Gauge TV Channel
Audio Level Meter
Tuning Mode
Transmitter Frequency
Select Switch Settings
Pressing the Receiver Select Button again will switch
to the receiver module information screen to show the
basic setup.
Press the BACK button twice to return to the overview
screen.
Fromtheoverviewscreen,presstheMENU/SELECT
control to open the TopMenu, rotate the control to
select an item, then press the control to enter the setup
screen for that item.
In a setup screen such as the LockSet example shown
here,up/downarrowspromptyoutochangethesetting
byrotatingtheMENU/SELECTcontrol.
Up/Down
Arrows
When the desired setting or value is displayed, press
theMENU/SELECTcontrolorBACKbuttontoreturnto
the previous menu.
Selecting SetUpRx (set up receiver) in the TopMenu
will take you to another menu where all settings for the
receiver modules can be made.
SelectanitemwiththeMENU/SELECTcontroland
press the control to open the setup screen (“Level” in
this example).
Setup screens for the receiver modules display the
settings for the selected module and allow immediate
access to all modules by pressing the Receiver Select
Buttons. Receiver module 1 (Rx1) is selected in this
example with its output level set at -3 dBu.
Function
Button
If another option is available, it will appear in the left
hand section of the LCD (“TONE” in this example).
Press the Function Button to select and deselect this
option with repeated presses. The display will highlight
the option when it is selected.
NOTE: Settings take effect immediately and are
stored until changed again. Pilot Tone Bypass is
different in that it resets to the default value when
the power is cycled.

Venue Wideband Receiver
LECTROSONICS, INC.
12
Resetting to Factory
Defaults
Resetting to Factory Defaults can be a time saver for
setting up the system. Start with the power turned off,
then hold Receiver Select Buttons 5 and 6 while power-
ing up the system.
POWER Switch
Receiver Select
Buttons 5 and 6
The Factory Default Settings are:
Level +00 dBu
Phase NORMAL
TxBatt 9V ALK
SmartNR NORMAL
Compat Dig. Hybrid
Tuning NORMAL MODE
DivMode Switched
LockSet NOT LOCKED
RxCh 8, 0
System Setup with the LCD
It is generally best to complete these steps in the se-
quence shown.
 • Selectcompatibilitymodes
• SelectSmartNoiseReductionmode
(for Digital Hybrid Compat Mode only)
• Selectdiversitymodes
• Findclearchannelsandsettransmittersto
match the receivers
• Adjustaudiooutputlevel
• Selectaudiosignalphase
• Selecttransmitterbatterymonitoringmode
• Controlpanellockout
Selecting Compatibility Modes
Navigate to the Compat setup screen.
Six compatibility modes are available to match various
transmitter types. In this example, the Digital Hybrid
compatibility mode is selected for receiver module 1.
Press the Receiver Select button for each module and
rotatetheMENU/SELECTcontroltoselectthemode.
The following modes are available:
Compat
Setup Mode Description
Dig. Hybrid Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid (HYB)
Mode 3 Mode 3 (M.3) (call for details)
200 Series Lectrosonics 200 Series (200)
100 Series Lectrosonics 100 Series (100)
TalkBack Talkback feature for use with
HH Handheld Transmitter
Mode 6 Lectrosonics IFB Series (IFB)
IFB Mode 6 (M.6) (call for details)
Shortcut: Press and hold the Receiver Select
button under the selected module (module 1 in
the example above) then press the buttons under
the other modules that are to be set to the same
mode.
If you are using Digital Hybrid transmitters, set them
and the matching receiver modules to the Dig. Hybrid
mode for best performance.
Talkback Feature
When Talkback is
enabled, the “P” for
Pilot Tone indicator
will turn to a “T” for
TalkBack
The Venue receiver is capable of a “TalkBack” compat-
ibility mode which enables a transmitter with TalkBack
functionality to switch its associated receiver’s audio
outputs between 2 XLR’s on the back panel. For in-
stance, under normal transmitter use (TalkBack inac-
tive), the audio will be mapped to the appropriate XLR
depending on which Venue slot the receiver module is
installed in (just like normal use). When the transmitter
enters TalkBack active mode… that audio will suddenly
switch to a different, predetermined, XLR on the back
panel. This functionality allows the transmitter to control
audio routing, and can be very useful for situations that
require real time talent-to-director feedback.

Digital Hybrid Wireless™ Modular Receiver System
Rio Rancho, NM, USA 13
In order for TalkBack functionality to work on the Venue
receiver, there needs to be at least one empty slot (and
thus associated unused XLR) in the mainframe. The
Venue’s microcontroller will automatically determine
the next empty slot for any receiver set to TalkBack
mode, and this empty slot will serve as the TalkBack
output channel. If more than one receiver modules are
installed upstream to the empty slot and set to TalkBack
compatibility mode, they will share the next available
empty slot as a TalkBack active output. In the event that
multiple upstream receivers enter a TalkBack state at
the same time, their audio will be simply be mixed on
the shared TalkBack output, so it’s possible to have mul-
tiple transmitters use a common TalkBack channel XLR.
When you are in a ratio diversity mode, the
microprocessor will cause a 6 dB bump in
TalkBack mode that will need to be accounted for
before switching back off TalkBack mode
2 Channel TalkBack on same TalkBack channel
1 Channel TalkBack, 1 Channel on WITHOUT TalkBack
setting and WITH pilot tone
The TalkBack channel will display like this when not
active
And like this when active
Here are a few example setups for the most common
TalkBack uses:
Designated TalkBack Channels
3 dedicated TalkBack channels, with 3 transmitters (re-
quires 3 empty slots in the Venue receiver)
VENUE
RX1
RX2
RX3
TB1
TB3
TB2
Shared TalkBack Channels
2 TalkBack channels, with 2 transmitters shared on
each (requires 2 empty slots in the Venue receiver)
VENUE
RX1
RX2 RX4
TB1&2
TB3&4
RX3
1 common TalkBack channel, shared between 5 trans-
mitters (requires 1 empty slot in the Venue receiver)
VENUE
RX1
RX2 RX5
TB-ALL
RX3 RX4
Selecting the Noise Reduction Mode
When the Compat Mode is set to Digital Hybrid, three
settings are available that affect the high frequency
audio content and noise:
• NORMAL(factory default) applies a moderate
amount of noise reduction, dramatically reducing
hiss with virtually no discernible side effects.
• FULL applies more aggressive noise reduction with
transparency superior to the noise reduction system
used for many years in the earlier Lectrosonics
wide deviation analog systems.
• OFF applies no noise reduction for complete trans-
parency.
Navigate to the SmartNR setup screen.
Select the receiver module with Receiver Select Button
androtatetheMENU/SELECTcontroltothedesired
mode. Listen to the audio signal as you rotate the knob
and select the mode that best fits the situation.
Note: If the selected Receiver Module is part of
a ratio or frequency diversity pair, the mode will
automatically be set for both receiver modules in
the pair.

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When any Compat Mode other than Dig. Hybrid is se-
lected, FIXED will automatically be selected.
In this example, receiver modules 4, 5 and 6 are set to
the FIXED mode with no adjustment available.
Selecting Diversity Modes
Navigate to the DivMode setup screen.
Two diversity reception modes are available:
• Switched Diversity uses one receiver module per
audio channel.
• Ratio Diversity (OptiBlendTM)uses two receiver
modules per audio channel.
Press the Receiver Select Buttons to enter the setup
screens for the receiver modules.
Switched Diversity
In this mode the signals from both antennas are com-
bined into a single receiver module, with the phase of
one of them inverted back and forth so that they always
add to one another. The process reduces dropouts and
provides a stronger signal than a single antenna.
Ratio Diversity (OptiBlendTM)
Ratio diversity uses two adjacent receiver modules to
pick up a single transmitter. The audio outputs of the
modules are blended (mixed) together, using more or
less audio from each module based upon which module
has the stronger RF signal.
Ratio diversity anticipates dropouts before they occur,
rather than waiting until the RF signal level is very weak
and on the verge of noise or dropout. The comparison
of the RF signal levels in the modules begins when the
RF level is still high, so the circuit can blend in more
audio from the module with the stronger signal before
the signal decays enough to cause noise.
The blending action is smooth and seamless to avoid
any audible artifacts that can occur with abrupt switch-
ing. Most of the time both receiver modules have good
signals, so the audio is blended equally, which improves
the signal to noise ratio by 3 dB.
The blended audio appears at the rear panel XLR out-
puts of both modules.
Selecting the Tuning Mode
Pre-coordinated tuning groups are stored in memory to
simplify frequency coordination. The groups are labeled
GROUP a, b, c and d on the LCD, with eight frequen-
cies stored in each one. Refer to the section near the
back of this manual entitled Pre-coordinated Frequen-
cies for details on compatibility and using these groups.
Select a
through d
Three additional modes are also available to enable
compatibility with non-standard transmitters and storing
custom frequency sets. Navigate to the Tuning menu
andpresstheMENU/SELECTcontrol.
NORMAL MODE is the standard Lectrosonics mode
with 256 frequencies in 100 kHz steps. A unique pilot
tone is present for each frequency.
FINE MODE allows tuning to 1024 frequencies in
25 kHz steps for compatibility with older and non-
Lectrosonics transmitters. Pilot tone frequency is set to
the next lower even 100kHz frequency. For example,
650.000, 650.025, 650.050 and 650.075 all use the
same pilot tone frequency.

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CUSTOM MODE is a special mode used to store up to
50 frequencies per block in 25 kHz steps. Frequencies
are stored in memory in a “table” with positions num-
bered 0 through 49. The pilot tone frequency is defined
by the position of each frequency in the table.
NOTE: Custom Mode would require
programming from a factory authorized service
center for proper operation
The Receiver Detail window will indicate the selected
mode and frequency information. In the FINE mode
transmitter switch settings will be shown when the
frequency is on an even 100 kHz step. In the CUSTOM
mode the position of the frequency in the table of 50
stored in memory will be shown.
FINE mode on
100kHz step;
Tx switch
settings shown
FINE mode NOT
100kHz step;
Tx switch
settings not
shown
CUSTOM mode;
memory
position shown
Finding Clear Frequencies with SmartTune
SmartTune simplifies setup by scanning the tuning
range of the receiver and automatically setting a re-
ceiver module to a clear frequency. A receiver module
is selected, a scan is completed and the frequency is
set for that module. A prompt appears, reminding you to
turn on a transmitter on the newly selected frequency,
and the procedure continues until all modules have
been tuned to clear frequencies.
NOTE: SmartTune is only available using the LCD
and front panel controls. It is not implemented in
the software.
1. Navigate to the SmrtTun setup screen and press
theMENU/SELECTcontrol.
2. Press the Receiver Select Button for the module
you wish to tune and scanning will begin.
When the full spectrum has been scanned, the cur-
sor will stop moving and blink briefly on the newly
selected frequency briefly.
3. The display will then switch back to the receiver se-
lection screen and ask if you want to tune another
module.
4. If you select Yes the display will remind you to turn
on the transmitter for the receiver you just tuned.
When the transmitter is turned on and detected, the
display will return to receiver selection (Step 2) and
prompt you to select the next receiver.
5, Repeat steps 2 through 4 for all receiver modules
that will be used.
In most cases the system will be ready to use after
SmartTune has been run on all modules, however, it’s
a good idea to perform a system checkout to verify
the compatibility of the frequencies selected. Refer to
the section entitled Diagnostics near the back of this
manual for details.
Finding Clear Channels with Tuning
Groups a through d
Groups “a” though “d” each contain 8 frequencies that
can be used together in certain combinations. Grou-
ps “a” and “b” are compatible with each other and “c”
and “d” are compatible with each. Other combinations
require testing. To use groups a through d, complete the
following steps:

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1. Navigate to the Tuning setup screen.
2. Select each module in turn with the Receiver Select
Buttons and select the desired tuning group. Then
return to the overview screen.
3. Turn transmitters off. From the overview screen,
open the receiver detail screen for each module
androtatetheMENU/SELECTcontroltoselecta
frequency where no RF signal is indicated.
Finding Clear Channels
Using Full Spectrum Scan
In crowded RF environments, it may not be possible to
find enough clear channels using a Tuning Group. The
internal spectrum scanner can then be used to find
clear channels manually across the entire tuning range
of the receiver in 100 kHz steps.
1. Turn off all transmitters and set all receiver modules
to the NORMAL tuning mode (not a tuning group).
2. Select Scan from the TopMenu and press the
MENU/SELECTcontrol.
Select the receiver module to use for scanning and
pressMENU/SELECT.Thescanningbeginsauto-
matically.
3. Allow the scanner to continue sweeping through the
tuning range several times, then press the Function
button to enter “Stop Mode.”
Function
Button
4. Withthescanningstopped,rotatetheMENU/
SELECT control to adjust the frequency to clear
spectrum. Press the Function Button to ZOOM to a
close up view of the scan results.
Function
Button
Cursor blinks
Strong InterferenceClear Spectrum
5. Press the BACK button to return to the “Stop Mode.”
NOTE: At any point in the Stop or Zoom screens,
you can select any module on the same block to
tune.
6. Press the BACK button to return the previous menu
to select the next receiver to use for scanning.
7 . Continue from step 2 to scan all blocks that are
installed.
8. Conduct a system checkout with the procedure
explained in the section entitled Diagnostics.
Adjusting Audio Output Levels
The audio output levels at the rear panel XLR jacks are
software controlled. (The front panel LEVEL knob af-
fects the PHONES output only.)
The optimum output level will provide the highest level
signal possible without overloading the input to external
equipment or driving a subsequent stage in the signal
chain into limiting or compression. Ideally, the gain
needed to drive the rest of the signal chain should be
present at the receiver outputs, with each successive
stage in other equipment set to unity (no gain or loss).
NOTE: In Ratio Diversity and Frequency Diversity
modes, the receiver modules are paired 1-2, 3-4,
5-6. Setting the audio level output on either module
in the pair, sets the audio output to the same level
on both of them.
1. Navigate to the Level setup screen.

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2. Select each receiver one at a time with the buttons
under the LCD and rotate the knob to adjust the
output to the desired level.
Selected Receiver Output Level
Tone On/Off Indicator
(Shown in Off position.)
Function
Button
3. Use the Tone Generator to adjust other equipment
to match the output level from the receiver with full
modulation of the transmitter. Press the Function
Button to start the tone.
The indicator will reverse to a dark background
with light letters when the tone is delivered to the
selectedoutput.RotatetheMENU/SELECTcontrol
to set the desired level.
WARNING: The 1 kHz reference tone is
equivalent to full modulation at the transmitter.
It is LOUD.
The test tone level is always at the 0dB reference level
(full modulation of the wireless system), which is the
level at which the first red “limit” light comes on at the
transmitter.
The highest level that the equipment downstream will
ever see before the receiver clips is 4.5 dB higher than
the test tone. Note that this is output headroom. Over
the entire 30+ dB range of the limiter in a Lectrosonics
transmitter, the output at the receiver goes up only 4.5
dB or less.
NOTE: The tone is a sine wave with about 1%
distortion
Selecting Audio Phase
Microphone wiring and other vagaries can alter the
phase of an audio signal. To compensate for this, the
phase of the audio output of each receiver module can
be inverted.
1. Navigate to the Phase setup screen.
2. Select each receiver module with the Receiver
SelectButtonandadjustthephasewiththeMENU/
SELECT control.
Selecting Transmitter Battery Status
Monitoring Mode
The receiver will monitor the status of the batteries in
the transmitters and display it when used with certain
transmitters, such as Lectrosonics 200 Series and Digi-
tal Hybrid models. The type of battery being used in the
transmitter must be defined in the TxBatt setup screen.
NOTE: The Compat Mode (compatibility mode)
set for each receiver module will determine which
battery monitoring methods are available
The TxBatt setup screen allows you to select the exact
battery being used in the transmitter to provide more
accurate battery level monitoring. Alkaline, lithium and
rechargeable AA and 9V types are commonly used.
The voltage declines gradually over the life of alkaline
and lithium types, so the voltage can be estimated and
displayed by the receiver. Rechargeable types, on the
other hand, maintain almost constant voltage as they
discharge, so a timer is provided in the receiver to
track operating time and anticipate the need for battery
changes.
1. Navigate to the TxBatt setup screen.
Selected Receiver
Battery Types for Each
Receiver Module
Current Transmitter Battery
Voltage (when available)
2. Select each receiver module with the Receiver
Select Button and set the battery type being used in
the corresponding transmitter.
9V ALK Transmitter uses a 9V alkaline battery.
Monitor voltage with battery icon in main
window.
9V LTH Transmitter uses a 9V lithium battery. Moni-
tor voltage with battery icon in main window.
9V TIM Transmitter uses a 9V battery. Display its
voltage normally in the battery level window

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but monitor its status with the battery timer
in the main window.
AA ALK Transmitter uses a AA alkaline battery.
Monitor voltage with battery icon in main
window.
AA LTH Transmitter uses a AA lithium battery. Moni-
tor voltage with battery icon in main window.
AA TIM Transmitter uses an AA battery. Display its
voltage normally in the battery level window
but monitor its status with the battery timer
in the main window.
The 9V TIM and AA TIM settings are most useful for re-
chargeable batteries, all or most of which do not exhibit
reliably identifiable voltage drops as they discharge.
In compatibility modes other than 400 Series and 200
Series, no battery telemetry information is available so
the TXBAT setup screen offers only two choices:
NOTIMER Display no transmitter battery status in the
main window.
TIMER Monitor the transmitter battery status with
the battery timer in the main window.
If the selected receiver module is part of a ratio
diversity pair, the battery type will be automatically
set for both units in the pair. If the selected receiver
module is part of a frequency diversity pair, the
battery type is set independently for each receiver
in the pair since there are two transmitters in use.
3. When either the AA TIM or 9V TIM (timer) mode
is selected, press the Function Button to reset
(“ZERO”) the timer.
Elapsed Time
Press the Function Button
to Reset (ZERO) the Timer
Selected Receiver
is Highlighted
Battery status is displayed on the receiver detail screen,
the overview screen and the info screen.
Battery Gauges
The display
changes to a
numerical readout
when a timer mode
is selected.
Locking Out the Front Panel Controls
Navigate to the LockSet setup screen.
RotatetheMENU/SELECTcontroltotheLOCKEDor
NOT LOCKED setting and press the control.
When LOCKED is selected, no changes can be made
to the configuration with the front panel controls. If an
attempt is made to change a setting, the LCD will flash
a reminder that the controls are locked.

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2. On the first page of the Wizard, select Install from
a list or specific location (Advanced) and click
“Next>” to continue.
3. Select “Search for the best driver in these loca-
tions.”, then check the box for “Search removable
media (floppy, CD-ROM...)” and click Next > to
continue to the next page.
4. Windows will search the CD for the driver and when
it has found it. If a dialog box opens warning you
that the driver has not passed Windows Logo Test-
ing, click “Continue Anyway.”
Installing LecNet2™ Software and USB Driver
LecNet2 software includes VRpanel for easy setup and
monitoring of the Venue Receiver using a computer
system running Windows®2000, XP or VistaTM operating
systems.
Installing LecNet2™Software
1. Remove any previously installed versions of Lec-
Net2™software to make sure you are using the
latest release.
2. Insert the LecNet2™program disk supplied with
the Venue Receiver into the CD-ROM drive on the
computer system that will be used for set up and
control.
3. The CD should automatically start the installation
procedure. If it doesn’t, click “Start” on the Windows
Task Bar then click “Run...” Enter the Drive letter
(“E” in the example) followed by “:\Setup.Exe” as
shown below.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the
LecNet2™software and the VRpanel for the Venue
Receiver.
Installing the LecNet2™ USB Driver
A Venue receiver can be connected to a computer with
a USB cable or an RS-232 cable. Although the USB
port offers increased speed and convenience over
standard RS-232 links, it does require the installation of
a LecNet2™USB driver.
The LecNet2™USB driver is not part of the standard
Windows®2000 and XP driver libraries; therefore, con-
necting a computer system to the Venue receiver for the
first time differs from subsequent installations. There are
a few differences between installing the LecNet2™USB
drivers on Windows 2000 versus Windows XP systems.
USB Driver Installation (Windows XP) - First Time
When the VR is connected to a Windows XP computer
system for the first time, the Windows®Found New
Hardware Wizard automatically opens. Use the follow-
ing procedure to install the LecNet2™USB driver using
the Wizard.
1. Place the LecNet2™Installation Disk in the PC’s
CD-ROM drive.

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3. When the driver installation is complete, the final
page of the Wizard appears. Click “Finish” to close
the Found New Hardware Wizard.
USB Driver Installation (Windows 2000) -
First Time
Use the following procedure when a LecNet2™device is
connected to the Windows 2000-based PC for the first
time.
1. Connect a USB cable between the Venue Receiv-
er’s USB port and the USB port on the computer
system. Place the LecNet2™Installation Disk in the
PC’s CD-ROM drive and click “Next >” to display
the next page.
5. When the driver installation is complete, the final
page of the Wizard appears. Click “Finish” to close
the Found New Hardware Wizard.
USB Driver Installation (Windows XP) -
Subsequent Installations
The Windows XP operating system regards all Lec-
Net2™devices as separate USB devices because each
has a unique serial number. Windows XP will want to
install the USB driver every time it encounters a Lec-
Net2™device whose serial number it does not recog-
nize. The process is simplified if the LecNet2™USB
driver has already been installed at least once on the
computer system. Use the following procedure if the
LecNet2™USB driver was previously installed on the
computer system.
1. On the first page of the Wizard, select Install the
software automatically Recommended) then click
“Next >”.
2. Windows will discover the previously installed
driver. If a dialog box opens warning you that the
driver has not passed Windows Logo Testing, click
“Continue Anyway.”