Lectrosonics AM16/12 User manual

AM16/12
16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
and trouble-shooting guide
LECTROSONICS, INC.
Rio Rancho, NM
www.lectrosonics.com

INTRODUCTION
The AM16/12 is the most advanced automatic matrix mixer available today. Combining 16 automatic input channels,
12 output channels, and a full crosspoint matrix system into 2 rack spaces, the AM16/12 is a compact solution for a
wide variety of sound system applications. 15 nonvolatile preset memory positions mean complete flexibility and
reconfigurability.
The 16 automatic inputs utilize the Lectrosonics patented Proportional Gain plus Autoskew mixing algorithm* for
seamless automatic mixing performance. Input preamp gains include +50dB and +30dB for both dynamic and
electret microphones, and 0dB for line level inputs. Gain trim range on the inputs is +15dB to -63dB plus off.
The crosspoint matrix allows any input (or combination of inputs) to be routed to any output (or combination of
outputs). Various crosspoint gains settings are available. In addition to the 16 inputs, matrix sources include the
audio from the LecNet Expansion connector as well as an internal noise source.
The 12 outputs are balanced line level. Outputs 9-12 each have a mic/line level switch to make those outputs
compatible with mic level devices like some four channel tape recorders.
The AM16/12 features a wealth of programmable features. With 17 programmable inputs and 19 programmable
outputs, even the most sophisticated control schemes are straightforward. The programmable inputs can control
input or output level on any grouping of inputs or outputs, memory preset recall, matrix crosspoint switching, or
various functions associated with the built-in room combining capability. Programmable outputs can indicate either
input channel activity or the current state of a programmable input.
The AM16/12 has an RS-232 port for remote setup or control by a computer or other RS-232 compatible controller.
More than one AM16/12 may be coupled together for larger applications.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 2
GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION ............................................................. 3
INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................... 4
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION............................................................................ 7
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 8
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................. 9
AM16/12 CONTROL PANEL SOFTWARE......................................................... 12
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................................... 27
FCC PART 15 NOTICE ....................................................................................... 27
SERIAL CABLE WIRING DIAGRAMS .............................................................. 28
SERIAL PORT COMMANDS AVAILABLE ......................................................... 29
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................... 34
SERVICE AND REPAIR ...................................................................................... 35
RETURNING UNITS FOR REPAIR .................................................................... 35
WARRANTY ........................................................................................... Back cover
* U.S. Patents 5,402,500 and 5,414,776
2

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
GENERAL TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
The AM16/12 uses a straightforward analog signal path to provide excellent audio performance. This is coupled with a
sophisticated microcontroller to implement the automatic mixing, matrix control, room combining, and programmable
input and output functions. The Adaptive Level Proportional automatic mixing algorithm is used by the AM16/12. This
algorithm uses the signal level pattern at the microphones to derive a pattern of channel gains. For instance, if only one
microphone channel is being spoken into, its level is dominant and that channel gets most of the system gain, while all
other channels are turned down. If more than one microphone is active, they share system gain according to their
relative levels. A “skewing” function gives some advantage to microphones which are active over time, to minimize
interruptions from transient noise at other microphones. Since the gain of each channel is apportioned continuously
based on its relative level, no abrupt gain changes are made. This makes the automatic action virtually inaudible.
Figure 1 shows the simplified block diagram of the AM16/12. The microphone preamp is a low-noise discrete design,
which is extensively RF protected. The preamp has three gain settings. The 0dB setting allows an input to accept
line level signals, while the +30dB and +50dB gain settings accommodate both low and high sensitivity microphones.
Switchable 15V Phantom power is provided for each channel.
VARIABLE LOW CUT
HIGH CUT/BOOST
TO A/D CONVERTER
MIX BUS 1
MIX BUS 2
MIX BUS 3
MIX BUS 4
MIX BUS 5
MIX BUS 6
MIX BUS 7
MIX BUS 8
MIX BUS 9
MIX BUS 10
MIX BUS 11
MIX BUS 12
MAIN IN
MIX MINUS OUT
Following the mic preamp, the
audio signal passes through a
EXPANSION IN
INPUT #1 (OF 16)
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
SWITCH
+15V
AUTO MIX LOG IN
high quality Voltage Controlled
ARRAY
CHANNEL ON
Amplifier (VCA). This VCA,
FROM INPUT 2
FROM INPUT 3
FROM INPUT 4
FROM INPUT 5
FROM INPUT 6
FROM INPUT 7
AUDIO
MIC IN + VCA
controlled by a signal from the
MAIN OUT
MIC PREAMP
MIC IN - FROM D/A FROM INPUT 8
system D/A converter, is used
CONVERTER MIX MINUS IN EXPANSION OUT
FROM INPUT 9
FROM INPUT 10
FROM INPUT 11
MIC GND
to implement both static gain
AUTO MIX LOG OUT
FROM INPUT 12
FROM INPUT 13
FROM INPUT 14 TX
FROM INPUT 15 LECNET PORT
FROM INPUT 16 (RS-232)
RX
uC
68HC12 NOM IN 1
PREAMP GAIN
SPEECH LOG
0dB (LINE)
+30dB (MIC) FILTER CONVERTER
control (i.e. mic trim and
+50dB (MIC)
remote input level) and gain
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
1
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
2
reduction for the automatic
PROCESSOR NOM IN 2
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
3 CONTROLLED NOM IN 3
VARIABLE
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
4 1 OF 16 NOM IN 4
RESISTOR
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
5 A/D
mixing function. A Channel On
NOM IN 5
SERIAL BUS
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
6
PROCESSOR
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
7
CONVERTER NOM IN 6
NOM IN 7
NOM IN 8
NOM TOTAL 1
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
8
RESISTOR
LED indicates which inputs are
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
9
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
10
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
11
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
12
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
13
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
14
currently active. A sweepable
low-cut filter and a shelving
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
15
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
16 AUDIO EXP IN
PROGRAMMABLE INPUT
17
high frequency filter provide
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 1
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 2
tone control for each input.
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 3
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 4
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 5 NOM TOTAL 2
NOM TOTAL 3
NOM TOTAL 4
D/A
CONVERTER NOM TOTAL 5
NOM TOTAL 6
NOM TOTAL 7
NOM TOTAL 8
NOM TOTAL 1
NOM TOTAL 2
NOM TOTAL 3
NOM TOTAL 4
NOM TOTAL 5
NOM TOTAL 6
NOM TOTAL 7
NOM TOTAL 8
NOM OUT 1
NOM OUT 2
NOM OUT 3
D/A NOM OUT 4
AUDIO EXP OUT
NOM OUT 7
NOM OUT 5
NOM OUT 6
CONVERTER
NOM OUT 8
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 6
The 16 inputs are routed
8
7
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 9
through an 18 in / 12 out
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 10
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 11
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 12
crosspoint matrix. The matrix
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 13
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 14
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 15
has multiple crosspoint gains
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 16
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 17
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 18
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC OUTPUT 19
to accommodate the most
complex signal routing needs.
Aside from the 16 inputs, the matrix also
includes two other inputs: a noise gen-
erator and the input signal from the
LecNet Expansion In rear panel connec-
NOISE GENERATOR
tor.
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
VARIABLE
RESISTOR
Signals from the Expansion In and
NOISE BALANCED
10dB
Expansion Out connectors allow easy
LINE OUTPUT 1
SOURCE
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
2
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
3
10dB
BALANCED
LINE OUTPUT 4
10dB
BALANCED
10dB LINE OUTPUT 5
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
6
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
7
10dB
LINE OUTPUT
BALANCED
8
10dB
interface to AM8 mixers. In addition, a
Mix Minus signal is available which
allows easy interfacing to teleconferenc-
ing hybrids like the TH3A.
An RS-232 port is available to allow
be controlled either by a computer or a
many of the functions of the AM16/12 to
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
10dB
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 9
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 10
10dB
dedicated control system (such as the
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT 11
10dB
AMX®or Crestron™ systems).
SWITCH
MIC/LINE OUTPUT
MIC/LINE
BALANCED
12
10dB
PROCESSOR
CONTROLLED
ATTENUATORS
AM16/12 Block Diagram
Rio Rancho, NM – USA
3

INSTALLATION
Because it is so highly integrated, the AM16/12 is straightforward to install. The following sections explain the
installation and wiring, as well as the software setup of the AM16/12.
AM16/12 Audio Inputs
Each of the 16 AM16/12 inputs is balanced, and pro-
Unbalanced Line Level Source Balanced Line Level Sourc
e
vides 15V phantom power (through 2K ohm feed resis-
tors to the “+”and “-”input connections). Phantom
Input + Input +
power is switchable on a per-channel basis. The draw-
Input - Input -
ing to the right shows two examples of line level interface
Input Gnd
Input Gnd
with the AM16/12; one, an unbalanced line level source
and the other, a balanced line level source.
AM16/12 Audio Outputs
Each of the 12 AM16/12 outputs is balanced, and outputs 9 - 12 may be set for line or microphone level output. To
use an output in the unbalanced line level mode, take the signal from the “+”output connection and the output
ground. Leave the “-”output floating. To use outputs 9 - 12 in the unbalanced microphone level mode, take the
signal from the “+”output connection and the output ground. In this case, you should connect the “-”output to
ground. Be sure that the MIC/LINE switch is in the MIC (down) position for the desired output.
AM16/12 Programmable Inputs
The AM16/12 has 17 pro-
grammable inputs which can
Pot Connection for Analog Control of Gain Contact Closure as Programmable Input
control a variety of AM16/12
parameters. Each input can
10K Linear Pot To Programmable Input Pin
respond to either a contact
Gnd
closure or a continuous
CCW CW +5V
voltage. The diagram to the
To Programmable Input Pin
DC Voltage Source as Programmable Inpu
t
right shows common connec-
Gnd To Programmable Input Pin
tions to the programmable
input pins.
0VDC (Off) to +5VDC (On)
Each programmable input is internally pulled up through a 100K resistor
Gnd
to +5V, so no external pull up resistors are necessary. When using a
continuous voltage with one of the programmable inputs, the Function of
the programmable input must be set to either Analog In Control or Analog Out Control. See the Programmable Input
tab in the AM16/12 Control Panel software for setting all programmable input parameters.
AM16/12 Programmable Outputs
The AM16/12 has 19
LED is on when the programmable output is active LED is off when the programmable output is active
programmable outputs
+5VDC (from Programmable Input +5VDC (from Programmable Input
Pins 14, 17, 20 or 23)
which can indicate either
380 Ohms Pins 14, 17, 20 or 23) 380 Ohms
channel activity or the current
Programmable Output Pin
state of a programmable input.
Programmable Output Pin Gnd (from Programmable Output
Pins 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 or 25)
Each programmable output is
the electrical equivalent of a
Relay is on when the programmable output is active
contact closure to ground. When a
programmable output is “active”, it
conducts current to ground. When
Programmable Output Pin
the programmable output is “inactive”,
Gnd (from Programmable Output
no current flows to ground. The maxi-
Pins 15
,
17
,
19
,
21
,
23 or 25
)
mum usable voltage for the program-
mable outputs is 40V, and they will safely
conduct up to 100mADC continuous. The
diagram on the right shows some typical
uses for the programmable outputs.
1N4001
or equiv.
External
DC Voltage
Source
(<40VDC)
Relay Coil
Coil current <100mA
4

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
It is permissible to run LEDs from the +5VDC pins on the programmable input connector, as long as the total LED
current for all LEDS on does not exceed 100mA. Similarly, 5V relay coils may also be run from the +5VDC pins on
the programmable input connector, as long as the total coil current for all relays on does not exceed 100mA. Note
that the diagram shows an external DC source powering the relay coil. This will be necessary if coil voltages above
5V are needed.
Audio Expansion In/Out
When multiple AM16/12s are used in an application, their Audio Expansion ports must be interconnected using the
Audio Expansion In/Out connectors on the rear panel of the AM16/12. These two 30 pin headers are just to the right
of the LecNet (RS232) jack on the rear panel. A 3" 30 conductor ribbon cable is supplied with each AM16/12 for this
purpose. When installing the AM16/12s in a rack, the Master AM16/12 should be mounted in the top of the rack, with
Slave AM16/12s mounted below the Master AM16/12. The ribbon connector then connects the Audio Expansion In
connector of the Master AM16/12 to the Audio Expansion Out connector of the first Slave AM16/12. If there are
more than one Slave AM16/12s, the Audio Expansion In connector of the first Slave AM16/12 is connected to the
Audio Expansion Out connector of the second Slave AM16/12, and so on for as many Slave AM16/12s as exist in the
system.
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
PWR
1 - GND 6 - IN 4
IN
2 - IN 1 7 - GND
3 - IN 2 8 - IN 5
4 - GND 9 - IN 6
5 - IN 3 10 - GND
Switch in
"MASTER"
position
PWR
IN
(PS60)
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
PWR
IN
(PS60)
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
(PS60)
M
A S
OUT IN
EXPANSION
S L
16.5 VAC
LecNet
T
E A
R V E
(RS232)
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
1 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
PWR
1 - GND 6 - IN 4
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
1 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
Switch in
Switch in
"MASTER"
"SLAVE"
position
position
Switch in
"SLAVE"
position
TH3A Rear Panel
AM16/12 Rear Panel
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
IN
(PS60)
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
(CH40)
PWR
IN
OUT IN
20 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
EXPANSION
To additional AM16s
Connecting multiple AM16/12s together Connecting the AM16/12 to the TH3A
Rio Rancho, NM – USA
5

Switch in
"MASTER"
position
AM8 Rear Panel
PWR
IN
(CH40)
OUT IN
MAIN OUT
+ – CH8 IN
EXPANSION REMOTE LEVEL
CONTROL
1 2 3 4
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
20 VAC
LECTROSONICS, INC.
LecNet
(RS232) DIR
OUT
+ –
AM16/12
Rear Panel
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
PWR
IN
(PS60)
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
1 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
Switch in "SLAVE"
p
osition
Connecting the AM16/12 to the AM8 Connecting the AM16/12 to the TH3A and a video codec
LecNet Expansion In/Out
When other LecNet devices are used in conjunction with the AM16/12s, the LecNet Expansion ports of these devices
must also be interconnected. Refer to the diagrams above for proper interconnections. The LecNet Expansion In
Switch in "MASTER"
position
AM16/12 Rear Panel
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
PWR
IN
(PS60)
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
GAIN
14 13
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
1 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
PROGRAMMABL
INPUTS
16 15 1 4 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
TH3A Rear Panel
Video
Codec
LINESET
TELEPHONE
+ –
TX INSERT
OUTIN
+ – + –
OUTIN
CODEC
(CH40)
PWR
IN
OUT IN
20 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
EXPANSION
– +
and Out pinouts are shown below.
2 1
34
5
6
78
Pin Expansion In Function
1 Main In
2 Mix Minus Out
3 NOM in
4 NOM total
5 RS-232 RX
6 RS-232 TX
7 Ground
8N/C
Expansion Out Function
Main Out
Mix Minus In
NOM out
NOM total
RS-232 RX
RS-232 TX
Ground
N/C
6

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION
CHANNEL ACTIVITY LEDS - Indicates channel activity. The LEDs light when the attenuation applied by the auto-
matic mixing algorithm is less than or equal to 6dB. The indication of channel activity is responsive to the Input
Qualification and Output Hold time parameters, which may be set in the Miscellaneous tab of the AM16/12 control
panel.
RESET DEFAULTS button - This button will reset the unit to factory defaults when held down while the power switch
is turned on.
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
CHANNEL ACTIVITY
POWER
RIO RANCHO, NM –USA
LECTROSONICS, INC.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
RESET
DEFAULTS
AM16/12 Front Panel
Rio Rancho, NM –USA
7

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION
MIC/LINE INPUTS 1-16 - Accepts balanced or unbalanced signal. Fully balanced differential input, RF filtered.
GAIN SELECTION SWITCHES 1-16 - Allows input channel gain to be set. 0dB gain, for line level sources, is set
when both switches of the pair are in the up position. 30dB gain, typically for high output (electret) microphones, is
set when the left switch is in the up position and the right switch is in the down position. 50dB gain, used for low
output (dynamic) microphones, is set when both switches are in the down position.
LINE OUTPUTS 1-12 - Provide balanced system outputs. The Line Outputs may also be used in an unbalanced
mode by connecting the “+”terminal of the Line Output to the signal lead of the unbalanced device, and the ground
terminal of the Line Output to the ground of the unbalanced device. See “AM16/12 Audio Outputs”on page 4 for
more information on connecting the outputs in balanced and unbalanced mode.
MIC/LINE SWITCHES 9-12 - Introduces 40dB of attenuation into the associated line
outputs 9-12. This yields the appropriate signal levels to interface with mic level
1 - GND 6 - IN 4 11 - IN 7 16 - IN 11 21 - IN 14
devices.
2 - IN 1 7 - GND 12 - IN 8 17 - +5V 22 - IN 15
3 - IN 2 8 - IN 5 13 - IN 9 18 - IN 12 23 - +5V
4 - GND 9 - IN 6 14 - +5V 19 - IN 13 24 - IN 16
PROGRAMMABLE INPUTS - Allows remote control of a number of AM16/12 func-
5 - IN 3 10 - GND 15 - IN 10 20 - +5v 25 - IN 17
tions. Each of the 17 programmable inputs can utilize either continuous DC voltages
(0VDC-5VDC) or contact closures, depending on the particular function chosen. For
continuous voltages, either a 10K ohm linear pot or an adjustable DC control voltage
may be used. The volume control action is internally scaled in software, giving an
“audio-taper”characteristic to a linear pot. When using a DC control voltage, the
control constant is 0.167V/dB (or 6dB/V) from 0V to 5V. At 0V, the channel is turned
1 13
14 25
1 - OUT1 6 - OUT6 11-OUT11 16-OUT15 21-GND
2 - OUT2 7 - OUT7 12-OUT12 17-GND 22-OUT18
3 - OUT3 8 - OUT8 13-OUT13 18-OUT16 23-GND
4 - OUT4 9 - OUT9 14-OUT14 19-GND 24-OUT19
5 - OUT5 10-OUT10 15-GND 20-OUT17 25-GND
completely off. The control voltage should not exceed 5V.
PROGRAMMABLE OUTPUTS - Allows indication of either channel activity or pro-
grammable input states. Each of the 19 programmable inputs is the electronic
equivalent of a contact closure. The logic output will sink up to 100mA at voltages up
to 40VDC, however, the total current draw of all logic outputs should not exceed
100mA if the internal +5V supply is used.
1 13
14 25
AUDIO EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows multiple AM16/12s to be linked together when more than 16 inputs are
needed. In multiple AM16/12 setups, one AM16/12 is set to be the Master, and all others are set to be Slaves. The
Audio Expansion In of the Master AM16/12 is connected to the Audio Expansion Out of the first Slave AM16/12,
using the supplied 30 pin ribbon cable. The Audio Expansion In of the first Slave AM16/12 is connected to the Audio
Expansion Out of the next Slave AM16/12, and so on.
RS-232 SERIAL PORT - Provides access to and control of some of the operational features of the AM16/12. The
port is compatible with the serial port of a PC, or other controllers with RS-232 type serial ports. For hardware
interconnection and software details, see Appendix 1, “Serial Port Hardware and Software”.
EXPANSION IN/OUT - Allows other LecNet devices to be connected to the AM16/12. Also used when multiple
AM16/12s are connected together to bus the RS-232 serial connection between AM16/12s.
MASTER/SLAVE SWITCH - Sets the AM16/12 for use as a Master device or a Slave device. AM16/12s used singly
should be set for Master mode operation.
PWR IN - Connects to the PS60 power supply to provide power for the AM16/12.
PHANTOM POWER SWITCHES - Allow +15V phantom power to be applied or not on a per-channel basis.
25
13
14
+
–– +
16 15
GAIN
16 15
PWR
IN
OUT IN
EXPANSION
M
A
S
T
E
R
S
L
A
V
E
16.5 VAC
LecNet
(RS232)
+
–– +
2 1
+
–– ++ –– ++ –– ++ –– ++ –– +
MIC/LINE
PROGRAMMABLE
LOGIC OUTPUTS
0dB GAIN (LINE) +30dB GAIN (ELECTRET) +50dB GAIN (DYNAMIC)
AUTOMATIC MATRIX MIXER
MIC/LINE INPUTS
MIC/LINE OUTPUTS LINE OUTPUTS
4 36 58 712 11 10 9
+
–– +
14 13
GAIN
14 13
+
–– +
12 11
GAIN
12 11
+
–– +
10 9
GAIN
10 9
+
–– +
8 7
GAIN
8 7
+
–– +
6 5
GAIN
6 5
+
–– +
4 3
GAIN
4 3
+
–– +
2 1
GAIN
2 1
LINE MIC
AUDIO EXPANSION IN
1 - GND
2 - IN 1
3 - IN 2
4 - GND
5 - IN 3
1
6 - IN 4
7 - GND
8 - IN 5
9 - IN 6
10 - GND
11 - IN 7
12 - IN 8
13 - IN 9
14 - +5V
15 - IN 10
16 - IN 11
17 - +5V
18 - IN 12
19 - IN 13
20 - +5v
21 - IN 14
22 - IN 15
23 - +5V
24 - IN 16
25 - IN 17
1 - OUT1
2 - OUT2
3 - OUT3
4 - OUT4
5 - OUT5
6 - OUT6
7 - OUT7
8 - OUT8
9 - OUT9
10-OUT10
11-OUT11
12-OUT12
13-OUT13
14-OUT14
15-GND
16-OUT15
17-GND
18-OUT16
19-GND
20-OUT17
21-GND
22-OUT18
23-GND
24-OUT19
25-GND
MADE IN U.S.A.
12 11 10 9
PROGRAMMABLE
INPUTS
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
PHANTOM POWER
ON
OFF
(PS60)
AUDIO EXPANSION OUT
AM16/12 Rear Panel
8

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Since most of the parameters used to set up the AM16/12 are adjusted using the AM16/12 Software Control Panel,
the operating instructions include instructions for the use of the software. It is recommended that you have the
software running, either live or in the demo mode, as you read through this section.
Power Up
When the AM16/12 is powered on, it automatically loads the active setup from Preset 1. Therefore, you should
always store the desired power--up setting for the AM16/12 in Preset 1.
Master/Slave Switch
The Master/Slave switch should be set to the Master position if only one AM16/12 is being used. When multiple
AM16/12s are used in a system, only one is set to Master and the rest are set to Slave. See also the wiring descrip-
tions of the Audio Expansion In/Out and Expansion In/Out connectors in the Installation section.
Input Preamp Gain
Input preamp gain is set using the dip switches just to the left of each 5 pin input connector. Dip switch settings for
0dB, +30dB, and +50dB input gain are shown on the rear panel of the AM16/12. Generally, the +50dB position is
used for all dynamic microphones and electret microphones where the working distance from the microphone will be
greater than about 18 inches. The +30dB position is useful for electret microphones with working distances less than
18 inches and most wireless microphones. The 0dB setting is for line level sources. Remember to switch phantom
power on for electret microphones and off for dynamic mics or line level sources.
Output Mic/Line Switch (Outputs 9 - 12)
Outputs 9 through 12 may be either Mic or Line level outputs. The dip switch between the output connectors for
outputs 9/10 and 11/12 controls the output level. There is approximately 40dB of attenuation introduced in the Mic
position relative to the Line position.
Using the AM16/12 Software Control Panel
The AM16/12 software control panel may be used in one of two ways. When launched from the LecNet Master Pro
application, you can control all the parameters of the AM16/12 in real time. (Your PC must be connected to the
AM16/12 using the supplied LecNet serial cable in order for this to happen.) Alternatively, you can launch the
AM16/12 control panel directly and it will automatically come up in the demo mode. The demo mode is useful for
doing system setup (and saving the setups to a disk file) without the need to be connected to an AM16/12.
System setup follows the order of the tabs on the control panel. Start at the left tab and work your way to the right.
The only exception to this is when you are using room combining. In this case, after setting up the input gain and
input tone controls, go directly to the room combining tab. Please refer to the AM16/12 Control Panel Software
section of this manual for a complete description of each control panel tab.
Input Channel (1 of 16) Output Channel (1 of 12)
Matrix Crosspoint
(1 of 216)
Mic Preamp
+50dB, +30dB, 0dB
Mic/Line In Tone Controls
Rear Panel
0dB to -30dB, Off
To Balanced
Output Drive
r
+6dB
+3dB
0dB
-5dB
-10dB
-15dB
Input Gain Rear Panel
+15dB to -63dB, Off 0dB to -30dB, Off
Output Gain
+10dB to -68dB, Off
The diagram below represents the signal flow of one input to one output through one matrix crosspoint. Illustrated
are all the gain control points in the signal path.
To adjust this parameter: Use this control:
Mic Preamp Gain
Input Gain
Rear Panel (Input) Gain
Output Gain
Rear Panel (Output) Gain
Rear panel dip switches
Input gain tab on AM16/12 control panel software
Programmable inputs on AM16/12 rear panel
Output gain tab on AM16/12 control panel software
Programmable outputs on AM16/12 rear panel
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9

Input Gain Tab
Each input channel has two gain control points, in addition to the rear panel preamp gain switches. The input control
point labeled “Input Trim”is adjusted using the Input Gain tab on the AM16/12 control panel. This control is used to
adjust the sensitivity of each microphone or line level input to the desired gain. The gain adjustment range is +15dB
to -63dB plus off. You may want to increase the mic preamp gain if you find that your input gain settings are routinely
above +10dB.
The input control point labeled “Rear Panel”represents the gain adjustments which can be made from the rear panel
programmable inputs. The rear panel gain control is attenuation only, starting at a maximum gain of 0dB. The rear
panel input gain controls may be limited in their adjustment range using the Miscellaneous Settings tab on the AM16/
12 control panel. In addition, you may set a rear panel preset gain value that will be applied to any outputs which are
being controlled by a programmable input. The preset gain is applied at power up or when sub-rooms are combined
or uncombined (using the room combining capabilities of the AM16/12). Note that if there are no limits applied to the
rear panel gain range, the input channel may be turned completely off. The current gain value of the rear panel
controls is displayed on the Miscellaneous Settings tab.
Output Gain Tab
The output gain structure is identical to the input gain structure, with the exception that the Output Gain range is
+10dB to -68dB plus off. The output gain is adjusted using the Output Gain tab.
Matrix Setup Tab
Matrix crosspoint gain can be set using the Matrix tab. Input-to-output gains are set based on the requirements of
the application. For example, you can set up a “mix-minus”sound reinforcement system when you are using multiple
microphones and overhead distributed speakers. Each speaker (or small group of speakers) would be fed from its
own mix of microphones. A given speaker’s mix would consist of all microphones not physically close to the speaker,
while excluding those microphones which are close to the speaker. The possibility of feedback is greatly reduced
when this approach is repeated with all system speakers. A multichannel amplifier (like the Lectrosonics PA8) may
be used to power each speaker individually.
Programmable Inputs Tab
Programmable inputs may be set up using the Programmable Inputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applications
for each of the programmable input functions available:
Analog In Control: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage source.
Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for mute.
Increase In 1dB, Decrease In 1dB: Used to control the input gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch
closures. Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is
pushed and held, it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or
low limit.
Analog Out Control: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with a potentiometer or DC voltage
source. Additionally, a toggle switch can be used as a mute switch by shorting the programmable input to ground for
mute.
Increase Out 1dB, Decrease Out 1dB: Used to control the output gain of one or more inputs with momentary switch
closures. Each switch closure will increase or decrease the gain of the associated input(s) by 1dB. If the switch is
pushed and held, it will continue to increment or decrement until the switch is released or the gain reaches its high or
low limit.
Memory Preset: Used to recall one of the 15 AM16/12 preset memories with a momentary switch closure. Remem-
ber to save the same memory preset associations in all the AM16/12 memory preset positions you’ll be using. You
can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the programmable inputs you’re
using for memory preset recall to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the current memory preset.
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Used to temporarily apply the signal from any one of the 16 inputs to any combination of
outputs using a momentary switch closure to toggle the state of the affected crosspoints. Useful for zone paging
applications, etc.
10

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
Mute In: Used to mute one or more inputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between mute
and unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the program-
mable inputs you’re using for input muting to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the mute/unmute state of the inputs.
Mute Out: Used to mute one or more outputs with a switch closure. Subsequent contact closures toggle between
mute and unmute. You can also assign a programmable output to reflect the programmable input state of the pro-
grammable inputs you’re using for output muting to drive LEDs for visual feedback of the mute/unmute state of the
outputs.
Toggle Room Boundary: Used when room combining is active to connect the boundaries (using a momentary
switch closure) of two rooms and combine their sound systems. This option is not available in the Programmable
Inputs tab, but is set automatically by the AM16/12 control panel when the room combining function is active.
Not Used: Unassigns a programmable input from any system function.
Programmable Outputs Tab
Programmable outputs may be set up using the Programmable Outputs tab. Below is a short list of typical applica-
tions for the two programmable output functions available:
Input Channel Activity: Used to indicate when one or more channels are active. This function may be used for
video-follow-audio applications, where each programmable output indicates activity on one or more channels. The
programmable outputs are connected to logic inputs on a video switcher to switch between cameras.
Programmable Input State: Used to provide user feedback for certain programmable input functions. A program-
mable output whose function is Programmable Input State will be active (i.e. conducting to ground) or inactive (i.e.
open) as follows depending on the function of the programmable input with which it is associated:
Function State when LED On State when LED Off
Analog In Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Analog Out Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Memory Preset: Associated memory is active Associated memory is not active
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Input-to-output(s) connection made Input - output(s) connection not made
Mute In: Associated input(s) not muted Associated input(s) muted
Mute Out: Associated output(s) not muted Associated output(s) muted
Room Combining Tab
If your application requires room combining, the Room Combining tab description in the AM16/12 Control Panel
Software section provides full setup information.
Miscellaneous Settings Tab
Adjustments or limitations to the front and rear panel gain controls, setup of the input qualification time and output
hold time, or configuration of the Expansion port mix-minus signal may be accomplished in the Miscellaneous
Settings tab. When multiple AM16/12s are used in a system, set the Internal NOM bus link to Expansion In/Out
option on all slave AM16/12s to No Link.
When all tabs are set appropriately for the application, the system is ready to use.
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11

AM16/12 CONTROL PANEL SOFTWARE
The following section is a description of the File menu and each of the tabs in the AM16/12 Control Panel applica-
tion.
File Menu Options
Copy Preset(s) to AM16/12 from Disk File... - Allows any preset stored to a disk file (.amd file extension) to be
loaded to the corresponding AM16/12 memory preset. The Preset 1 through Preset 15 selections copy a single
preset, while the All Presets selection copies all 15 presets to the AM16/12. After a preset is loaded to the AM16/12,
it will be transferred to the active AM16/12 setup. If all 15 presets are loaded, preset 1 will be made the active
preset. This option is helpful in restoring AM16/12 settings if they have been accidentally corrupted. Note that this
option will overwrite any data stored in the AM16/12’s preset memory with the new preset data from disk.
Save Preset(s) from AM16/12 to Disk File... - Allows any preset currently stored in the AM16/12’s preset memory
to be saved to a disk file. The Preset 1 through Preset 15 selections copy a single preset, while the All Presets
selection copies all 15 AM16/12 presets to the selected disk file. This option is helpful in archiving the final settings
for the AM16/12 in a particular installation.
Load Active Setup from Disk File... - Allows the active AM16/12 setup to be loaded from a disk file. Loading the
active AM16/12 setup from a disk file will not overwrite any AM16/12 preset memory data. This option is helpful
when a basic AM16/12 setup has been generated off-site and needs to be “tweaked”on-site.
Save Active Setup to Disk File... - Allows the active AM16/12 setup to be stored to a disk file. You select which
preset position in the disk file to which to store the active AM16/12 setup. This option has no effect on the AM16/12
preset memories.
Select Active Setup from AM16/12 Preset... - Allows any of the AM16/12 preset memories to be recalled and made
to be the active AM16/12 setup. This option does not affect any of the preset memory data.
Save Active Setup to AM16/12 Preset... - Allows the active AM16/12 setup to be stored in one of the 15 preset
memories in the AM16/12. Note that this option will overwrite any preset memory data stored in the selected preset
memory position.
Enter Input/Output Names... - Allows names to be assigned to the 16 inputs and the 12 outputs of the AM16/12.
These names may be up to 15 characters long and are stored in nonvolatile memory in the AM16/12. In addition,
the names are stored in any disk files generated with any of the save to disk options above. Inputs or outputs with
no assigned names are listed as “No Name”. To change a name, simply click on the desired text box and enter the
desired name. While you are permitted to enter more than 15 characters in the text box, only the first 15 will be
stored. To save the changes to the AM16/12’s nonvolatile memory, click the Apply button. If you click the Cancel
button, the changes you have made will not be applied. The shortcut key for this option is Ctrl+E.
Enter Disk File Notes... - Allows you to add any
notes that you want to be included in a file saved to
disk. These notes could be installation instructions,
operational instructions, or any other information
which might be helpful to associate with a saved file.
Yo u ’ll see the screen shown at the right when you
choose this option:
After you enter the desired text into the text box,
choose OK to save the changes you’ve made. Cancel
will ignore the changes you’ve made since the last
time you clicked OK. Note that to save your changes
to a disk file, you must still either use Save Preset(s)
from AM16/12 to Disk File... or Save Active Setup to
Disk File... to store the notes in a disk file. The
shortcut key for this option is Ctrl+D.
Print Setup... - Allows the active printer to be
changed using the standard Windows printer setup
dialog. This will set the printer which is used with the
Print Tabs... menu selection. The shortcut key for this
option is Ctrl+P.
Print Tabs... - Allows any or all of the AM16/12 control panel tabs to be printed for documentation purposes.
12

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
Update AM16/12 Firmware from Disk File - Allows newer firmware revisions to be loaded into the AM16/12. From
time to time, new features or bug fixes will be added to the AM16/12’s firmware. These changes will be distributed
with the LecNet installation disks and available on the Lectrosonics Web site (www.lectrosonics.com). The firmware
file will have a “.s19”extension. When installing from the installation disks, the firmware files will automatically be
placed in the LecNet directory (default: c:\lecnet). If new firmware is downloaded from the Web site, the file should
be placed in the LecNet directory.
Any time the AM16/12 Control Panel is run, it will check for .s19 firmware files which are more recent than the
firmware revision in the AM16/12. You will be alerted that the AM16/12’s firmware can be updated, and you can
select whether or not to let the update proceed. If no firmware file is available in the LecNet directory, this option will
be disabled. The shortcut key for this option is Ctrl+U.
Exit - Ends the application. The shortcut key for this option is Ctrl+X.
Important note: If you will be using the Room Combiner functions of the AM16/12, proceed to the instructions for
the Room Combining Tab on page 23.
Input Gain Tab
The Input Gain tab allows the
input gain, Auto/Direct status, and
the NOM bus association to be
set for each of the 16 input
channels.
Gain - Allows the input gain level
to be trimmed between +15dB
and -63dB, or Off. The gain
shown in the associated box
should be added to the preamp
gain (set by rear panel dip
switches) to calculate the total
channel gain. For example, if the
rear panel dip switches for an
input are set such that the
preamp gain is +30dB, and the
input gain box shows +5dB, the
total gain applied to that input
channel (excluding matrix
crosspoint and output gain) would
be +35dB. The background color
of the input gain box will change
from white to red if the input is
muted by actuation of the Mute
Input function of a programmable
input. The input gain scroll bar will also be disabled while the channel is muted.
Short Cuts: A left mouse click on the gain box will set the input gain to 0dB, while a right mouse click will set the input
gain to Off.
Auto/Direct Input Status - Each input may be in either Auto or Direct mode. An input in the Auto mode responds to
the NOM bus to which it is assigned to determine its instantaneous gain. An input in the Direct mode is always on
and never has any gain reduction applied to it from the automatic mixing action. An input in the Direct mode will,
however, contribute to the NOM bus to which it is assigned. In most cases, inputs connected to microphones should
be set to Auto mode. Direct mode is useful for line level sources.
NOM Bus - Sets the NOM bus association for each input. The AM16/12 has 8 NOM busses, and any input may be
assigned to any NOM bus, or to “None”. All inputs assigned to the same NOM bus act like a single automatic mixer,
in that their instantaneous gains are determined by the relative signal levels on all other inputs assigned to that NOM
bus. By assigning inputs to different NOM busses, more than one “virtual mixer” may be constructed. As a simple
example, you might assign inputs 1-8 to NOM bus 1 and inputs 9-16 to NOM bus 2. If inputs 1-8 were then sent to
output 1 and inputs 9-16 were sent to output 2 (using the Matrix tab), you would have two separate 8 input automatic
Rio Rancho, NM –USA
13

mixers. With 8 NOM busses, up to 8 separate mixers can be configured with the AM16/12. If an input is assigned to
“None”, it will neither affect any other channel’s automatic gain or be affected by another channel.
Short Cuts: A left mouse click on the NOM box will associate the input with NOM bus 1, while a right mouse click will
set the association to “None”.
On LED - Indicates that the attenuation applied to the input as a result of the automatic mixing action is less than
6dB. For inputs in the Direct mode, or inputs whose NOM assignment is “None”, this LED is always lit.
Level Meter - Indicates the inputs level, taking into consideration the Input Gain, and the front and rear panel gain
contributions.
Input Tone Tab
The Input Tone tab allows the low
cut frequency and the high
frequency cut or boost to be set
for each of the 16 input channels.
Low Cut - Sets the low cut
corner frequency for each input
channel. The low cut filter is a
6dB/octave (i.e. single pole) filter.
Frequency choices are 75Hz,
90Hz, 110Hz, 130Hz, 190Hz,
280Hz, 600Hz, and Flat.
Short Cut: A left click on the low
cut box causes the frequency to
be set to “Flat”.
Hi Cut/Boost - Sets the high
frequency cut or boost for each
input channel. The inflection
point of the high frequency tone
control is approximately 1kHz.
Choices for cut/boost are -8dB, -
6dB, -3dB, Flat, +3dB, +6dB, and
+8dB.
Short Cut: A left click on the hi
cut/boost box causes the cut/
boost value to be set to “Flat”.
14

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
Matrix Setup Tab
The Input/Output Matrix tab sets
the input to output assignments
for the AM16/12.
Input/Output Crosspoint -
Allows the input/output
crosspoint gain to be set. Each
of the 12 rows of 18 crosspoint
boxes represent input connec-
tions which may be set from
inputs to outputs 1-12. To set a
crosspoint
gain, simply
click on the
crosspoint box
at the inter-
section of the
desired input
and desired
output. The
crosspoint box
will turn
yellow, and
you’ll see the
following
selection box
pop up:
At this point, the current crosspoint gain is highlighted in the selection box. Choose a new gain by clicking on the
desired crosspoint gain value. If you decide not to change the crosspoint gain, you may press the Esc key or click on
the crosspoint box again to close the selection box without changing the crosspoint gain. The first 16 crosspoint
boxes in each output row are for the AM16/12 inputs. Two other signals are available to be included in the output
mixes: Exp In and Noise.
Exp In is the signal from the 8 pin mini-DIN LecNet Expansion In connector on the rear panel of the AM16/12. This
signal would be used if another LecNet device, like a TH3A Telephone Hybrid, were connected to the AM16/12 via
the expansion cable. In this case, the TH3A’s receive signal would be present at the Exp In connector. The
crosspoint gains for Exp In to any active outputs would be set to the desired gain so that the participants in the local
room could hear the far-end participant. Another application might be the addition of 8 more inputs using an AM8. In
this case, the sum of all 8 AM8 channels would appear at the Exp In connector. This signal could then be distributed
as necessary to appropriate output mixes.
The AM16/12 includes an internal broadband noise generator which can be included into any of the output mixes.
One application for the noise generator is bench conferences in courtrooms. During a bench conference, noise is
output over the sound system in the jury box, the gallery, and any other place that shouldn’t hear the conversation at
the bench.
Short Cuts: A right mouse click on a crosspoint gain box will set the crosspoint gain to 0dB. A middle mouse click
(for those with a three button mouse) will set the crosspoint gain to “Off”.
Refresh Matrix (Ref) Button - Updates the crosspoint matrix display to indicate the active AM16/12 setup. This is
useful when the room combining function is in use, or any other function which might change the matrix crosspoint
setup.
Clear Matrix (Clr) Button - Clears all matrix crosspoints to the “Off”state.
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15

Output Gain Tab
The Output Gain tab allows the
output gain levels to be set.
Gain, Outputs 1 - 12 - Allows the
output gain to be set between
+10dB and -68dB or “Off”. The
background color of the output
gain box will change from white to
red if the output is muted by
actuation of the Mute Output
function of a programmable input.
The output gain scroll bar will also
be disabled while the output is
muted.
Short Cuts: A left mouse click on
the gain box will set the output
gain to 0dB, while a right mouse
click will set the output gain to Off.
Master Output Section
The Master Output section
provides a convenient way to apply
gain changes to more than one
output at a time. The six buttons
(Set to Off, Set to 0dB, Decrease
by 1dB, Increase by 1dB, Decrease by 5dB, and Increase by 5dB) facilitate several common gain manipulations. Their
action is applied to any output whose check box is checked. The Select All and Unselect All buttons provide a quick way
to apply gain changes to all channels simultaneously. Note that the Increase and Decrease buttons are push-and-hold,
and will increment or decrement the output gain for as long as they are held down.
Programmable Inputs Tab
The AM16/12 has 17 program-
mable inputs (available on the 25
pin D-Sub connector on the rear
panel) which allow control of a
wide variety of AM16/12 functions.
Only the parameters in the
“Applies To”section which are
associated with each specific
programmable input function will
be enabled as you select different
functions. All other parameters are
disabled. This eliminates invalid
Function/Applies To settings. Each
of the available functions is
explained below.
Hint: If the function (or any
associated inputs, outputs, etc.) of
a programmable input is changed
on the control panel, the Apply
button will be enabled. The Apply
button is located in the lower right
hand corner of the Programmable
Input tab. The Apply button must
be clicked before any changes are
actually applied to the active
16

16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
AM16/12 setup. Note that you should use the Select Programmable Input buttons to select the programmable input you’d
like to configure before doing any configuration.
Select Programmable Input Buttons 1-17 - Allows selection of which programmable input to change. Note that the
frame caption “Programmable Input ...”(upper left in blue) will change to indicate the programmable input currently being
changed.
Push Input Button - Allows a contact closure to be simulated for the current programmable input. This is useful when
testing to see that the changes you’ve made to each programmable input indeed have the intended effect. Each click on
the “Push Input...” button has the same effect as a momentary contact closure on the current programmable input. Note
that the caption on the Push Input button always reflects the current programmable input. The Push Input button will be
disabled for the Analog In Control, Analog Out Control and Not Used options.
Programmable Input Status “LED” - Shows the current state of a programmable input. The status indicator only has
meaning for the following programmable input functions:
Function State when LED On State when LED Off
Analog In Control Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease In 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Analog Out Control Attenuation < 15dB Attenuation > 15dB
Increase Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Decrease Out 1dB: Contact closure on prog input No contact closure on prog input
Memory Preset: Associated memory is active Associated memory is not active
Toggle Crosspoint Gain: Input-to-output(s) connection made Input - output(s) connection not made
Mute In: Associated input(s) not muted Associated input(s) muted
Mute Out: Associated output(s) not muted Associated output(s) muted
Apply Button - Applies the current setting of “Function”and “Applies To”to the current programmable input. When the
Apply button is enabled, this indicates that the setting of “Function”and “Applies To”in the AM16/12 does not match the
setting of “Function”and “Applies To”shown on the control panel screen. Clicking the Apply button will load the control
panel setting into the active AM16/12 setup. This does not store the changes to a memory preset! That must be done
explicitly from the File/Save Active to AM16/12 Preset... file menu option. If changes are made to a programmable input
but not applied (by clicking on the Apply button), and another programmable input is selected (by clicking another of the
Select Programmable Input buttons), all the changes to the first programmable input which were not applied will be lost.
Programmable Input Functions:
Analog In Control - Allows one or
more input gains to be controlled by
an analog voltage on a program-
mable input pin. Analog input gain
control goes from a maximum of
0dB gain to a minimum of 30dB
attenuation, plus “Off”. The gain
change resolution is 1dB. The
Analog In Control mode is ideal for
using a pot (or some other source of
analog voltage) to control input gain.
The valid voltage range in the
Analog In mode is 0VDC to 5VDC.
0VDC corresponds to “Off”(or Rear
Panel Minimum Input Gain, if it is
programmed for less attenuation
than “Off”), and +5VDC corresponds
to 0dB. In addition, a SPST toggle
switch may be used as a mute
switch. Connect the two switch
contacts to the programmable input pin and ground. The inputs will be muted when the contacts are closed. The screen
shown to the right indicates that the function of programmable input 1 is analog input control of inputs 1, 2, 3, 5, and
7. Notice how multiple inputs may be controlled by a single programmable input.
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17

Increase In 1dB / Decrease In
1dB - Allows one or more input
gains to be controlled by a contact
closure on a programmable input
pin. Increase and Decrease input
gain control goes from a maximum
of 0dB gain to a minimum of 30dB
attenuation, plus “Off”. The gain
change resolution is 1dB. In the
case of Increase In 1dB, each
contact closure will increment the
input(s) gain by 1dB until 0dB is
reached. Decrease In 1dB will
decrement the input(s) gains by
1dB until either “Off”or Rear Panel
Minimum Input Gain is reached. If
the contact closure is pushed and
held, it will continue to increment
or decrement until it is released or
the gain reaches its high or low
limit. The screen shown to the
right indicates that the function of
programmable input 1 is Increase
In 1dB control of inputs 1, 2, 3 and
7.
Analog Out Control - Allows one
or more output gains to be con-
trolled by an analog voltage on a
programmable input pin. Analog
output gain control goes from a
maximum of 0dB gain to a mini-
mum of 30dB attenuation, plus
“Off”. The gain change resolution
is 1dB. The Analog Out mode is
ideal for using a pot (or some other
source of analog voltage) to
control output gain. The valid
voltage range in the analog output
mode is 0VDC to 5VDC. 0VDC
corresponds to “Off”(or Rear
Panel Minimum Output Gain, if it is
programmed for less attenuation
than “Off”), and +5VDC corre-
sponds to 0dB. In addition, a
SPST toggle switch may be used
as a mute switch. Connect the two
switch contacts to the program-
mable input pin and ground. The
outputs will be muted when the
contacts are closed. The screen
shown to the right indicates that
the function of programmable input
1 is analog output control of all
outputs simultaneously.
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16 Channel Automatic Matrix Mixer
Increase Out 1dB / Decrease Out
1dB - Allows one or more output
gains to be controlled by a contact
closure on a programmable input
pin. Increase and Decrease output
gain control goes from a maximum
of 0dB gain to a minimum of 30dB
attenuation, plus “Off”. The gain
change resolution is 1dB. In the
case of Increase Out 1dB, each
contact closure will increment the
output(s) gains by 1dB until 0dB is
reached. Decrease Out 1dB will
decrement the output(s) gains by
1dB until either “Off”or Rear Panel
Minimum Output Gain is reached.
If the contact closure is pushed
and held, it will continue to incre-
ment or decrement until it is
released or the gain reaches its
high or low limit. The screen
shown to the right indicates that
the function of programmable input
1 is Increase Out 1dB control of all
outputs.
Memory Preset - Allows one of
the 15 AM16/12 memory presets
to be recalled by a momentary
contact closure on a program-
mable input pin. If you are using
two or more programmable inputs
for memory recall, you will want to
set up and apply all programmable
input/memory preset associations
and download the active setup to
all preset memories you’ll be using.
This guarantees that the desired
programmable input/memory
preset associations are stored in
all memories of interest. The
screen to the right indicates that
the function of programmable input
1 is to recall AM16/12 Memory
Preset 1.
Rio Rancho, NM –USA
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Toggle Crosspoint Gain - Allows
for a temporary matrix connection
to be made between one input and
any combination of outputs, at any
one of the available crosspoint
matrix gains. The first momentary
contact closure on the program-
mable input pin will make the
specified input-to-output(s) con-
nection, and the next momentary
contact closure will remove the
connection. No matrix crosspoints
other than the ones specified are
changed. This toggling of input-to-
output(s) connections is ideal for
applications such as single or multi
zone paging, or other situations
where a temporary matrix connec-
tion is needed rather than a full
memory preset recall. The screen
to the right shows input 1 being
routed to outputs 1, 2, 3, and 4
with a crosspoint gain of 0dB. This
could be a multi-zone page setup
using input 1 as the paging micro-
phone input.
Toggle Room Boundary - Allows
room boundaries (in room combin-
ing applications) to be combined.
This option is not changeable from
the Programmable Inputs tab, but
is shown for reference in the tab.
You’ll notice that the frame caption
changes to include the phrase
“(used for room combining)”as a
reminder that this programmable
input cannot be changed in this
tab. The toggle room boundary
function is set in the Room Com-
bining tab. Note that the specific
room boundary associated with the
programmable input is also shown
on the Room Combining tab. The
screen to the right shows a pro-
grammable input used to toggle a
room boundary.
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