Lectrosonics DM84 User manual

DM84
Digital Audio Processor
REFERENCE MANUAL
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
www.lectrosonics.com
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Important Safety Instructions
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the
enclosure -- voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the
accompanying literature. Please read the manual.
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with a dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and third grounding prong. The wider blade or
the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electri-
cian for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged
in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
15) WARNING -- TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.4
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in
which case the user will be required to correct the interference at this own expense.

Reference Manual
Rio Rancho, NM 5
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions ...............................................................................................................................................................3
Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................................................................................5
General Overview ...................................................................................................................................................................................8
Digital Matrix and DANITM Bus ..............................................................................................................................................................9
DM84 Functional Block Diagram ........................................................................................................................................................10
Input Processing .................................................................................................................................................................................11
Input Gain .......................................................................................................................................................................................11
Delay ...............................................................................................................................................................................................11
Filters ..............................................................................................................................................................................................11
ADFE Filters ...................................................................................................................................................................................11
Compressor ....................................................................................................................................................................................11
Digital Matrix ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Digital Matrix Functional Block Diagram ............................................................................................................................................. 11
Automixer Cell .................................................................................................................................................................................11
Power of the Mix .............................................................................................................................................................................12
Crosspoint Gain ..............................................................................................................................................................................12
Mixing Mode ...................................................................................................................................................................................12
Output Processing ..............................................................................................................................................................................12
Output Source Select ...................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Mic/line Output Channels ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Output Signal Processing Stages ...................................................................................................................................................13
Digital Delay ....................................................................................................................................................................................13
Filters ..............................................................................................................................................................................................13
Compressor and Limiter .................................................................................................................................................................13
Output Gain and Level Indicator .....................................................................................................................................................13
DM84 Controls and Features ..............................................................................................................................................................14
Front Panel .........................................................................................................................................................................................14
USB Port ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
MODE Switch .................................................................................................................................................................................14
Front Panel Gain Controls ...............................................................................................................................................................14
Front Panel Input/Output Indicators ................................................................................................................................................14
Rear Panel ..........................................................................................................................................................................................15
POWER Plug ..................................................................................................................................................................................15
RS-232 Port ....................................................................................................................................................................................15
USB Port ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Programmable Input and Output Ports ...........................................................................................................................................15
DANI ...............................................................................................................................................................................................15
Audio Inputs and Outputs ...............................................................................................................................................................15
Installing LecNet2™ Software and USB Driver .................................................................................................................................16
Installing LecNet2™ Software ............................................................................................................................................................16
Installing the LecNet2™ USB Driver ..................................................................................................................................................16
USB driver installation (Windows XP) .............................................................................................................................................16
First time installation .......................................................................................................................................................................16
Installating Additional DM Units (or LecNet2devices) .....................................................................................................................17
USB Driver Installation (Windows 2000) ............................................................................................................................................18
First Time Installation ...................................................................................................................................................................... 18
USB Driver Installation (Windows 2000) - Subsequent Installations ..............................................................................................18
Firmware Updates ................................................................................................................................................................................19
Using the Update Wizard ....................................................................................................................................................................19
DM84 System Setup Tabs ....................................................................................................................................................................22
Activity Tab..........................................................................................................................................................................................22
Inputs Tab .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 23
In Filters (Input Filters) Tab .................................................................................................................................................................24
In Comp (Input Compressor) Tab ........................................................................................................................................................25
In Delay (Input Delay) Tab ....................................................................................................................................................................28
Matrix Tab ..............................................................................................................................................................................................29
Out Source (Output Source) Tab .........................................................................................................................................................31
Out Delay (Output Delay) Tab ..............................................................................................................................................................32
Out Filters (Output Filters) Tab ...........................................................................................................................................................33
Out Comp/Lim (Output Compressor/Limiter) Tab .............................................................................................................................35
Outputs Tab ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Rear Panel Control Tab ........................................................................................................................................................................ 39

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.6
DM84 Serial Interface and General Commands ................................................................................................................................44
Wildcards ............................................................................................................................................................................................44
DM84 General Commands ................................................................................................................................................................. 44
actpre (active preset) ......................................................................................................................................................................44
baud (baud rate) .............................................................................................................................................................................44
default (default settings) ..................................................................................................................................................................44
defpre (default preset) .....................................................................................................................................................................45
desc (description) ...........................................................................................................................................................................45
fpgnran (front panel control gain range)..........................................................................................................................................45
fplock (front panel control lock) .......................................................................................................................................................45
fpmten (front panel mute enable) ....................................................................................................................................................46
fppreadj (front panel control input preamp adjust) ..........................................................................................................................46
id (device id) ....................................................................................................................................................................................46
macro (macro command) ................................................................................................................................................................ 46
macroti (macro title) ........................................................................................................................................................................47
mode (Master/Slave mode) .............................................................................................................................................................47
predesc (preset description) ...........................................................................................................................................................47
premsk (default preset mask) .........................................................................................................................................................47
rank (rank in Lecnet2 chain) ...........................................................................................................................................................48
recall (recall preset) ........................................................................................................................................................................48
run (run a macro) ............................................................................................................................................................................48
serial (serial number) ......................................................................................................................................................................48
sleep (suspend macro execution) ...................................................................................................................................................48
store (store settings to preset) ........................................................................................................................................................48
version (firmware version) ...............................................................................................................................................................48
DM84 Audio Input Commands ............................................................................................................................................................49
inact (input activity) .........................................................................................................................................................................49
incl (input clipping) ..........................................................................................................................................................................49
indel (input delay) ............................................................................................................................................................................49
DM84 ADFE Commands ......................................................................................................................................................................50
adfeen (adfe enable) .......................................................................................................................................................................50
adfefil (adfe filter deployment) .........................................................................................................................................................50
ADFE Filter Numbers Mapped to Center Frequencies ...................................................................................................................50
DM84 Input Compressor Commands ................................................................................................................................................. 51
incpgn (input compressor gain) ......................................................................................................................................................51
incpmug (input compressor makeup gain) ......................................................................................................................................51
incprat (input compressor ratio) ......................................................................................................................................................51
incptc (input compressor time constant) .........................................................................................................................................51
incpthr (input compressor threshold level) ......................................................................................................................................51
DM84 Matrix Crosspoint Commands .................................................................................................................................................52
xpgn (crosspoint gain) ....................................................................................................................................................................52
xpgnst (matrix crosspoint gain step change) ..................................................................................................................................52
xpmode (crosspoint mix mode) ....................................................................................................................................................... 53
xpmt (crosspoint mute) ...................................................................................................................................................................53
xpmttog (crosspoint mute toggle)....................................................................................................................................................53
DM84 Audio Output Commands .........................................................................................................................................................54
outdel (output delay) .......................................................................................................................................................................54
outgn (output gain) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 54
outgnfp (output front panel gain) ..................................................................................................................................................... 54
outlb (output channel label) ............................................................................................................................................................55
outlv (output level) ...........................................................................................................................................................................55
outmic (output mic level) .................................................................................................................................................................55
outmt (output mute)......................................................................................................................................................................... 55
outmttog (output mute toggle) ......................................................................................................................................................... 55
outsrc (output signal source) ..........................................................................................................................................................56
DM84 Output Compressor Commands .............................................................................................................................................. 57
outcpgn (output compressor gain) ..................................................................................................................................................57
outcpmug (output compressor makeup gain) .................................................................................................................................57
outcprat (output compressor ratio) .................................................................................................................................................. 57
outcptc (output compressor time constant) ..................................................................................................................................... 57
outcpthr (output compressor threshold level) ..................................................................................................................................57
DM84 Output Limiter Commands .......................................................................................................................................................58
outlmgn (output limiter gain) ...........................................................................................................................................................58
outlmtc (output limiter time constant) .............................................................................................................................................. 58
outlmthr (output limiter threshold level) ...........................................................................................................................................58

Reference Manual
Rio Rancho, NM 7
DM84 Programmable I/O Commands .................................................................................................................................................59
prgin (programmable input state) ....................................................................................................................................................59
prgoutht (programmable output channel activity hold time) ............................................................................................................59
prgindef (programmable input definition) ........................................................................................................................................60
prginundef (programmable input un-definition) ...............................................................................................................................60
prgout (programmable output state) ...............................................................................................................................................60
prgoutiv (programmable output invert) ............................................................................................................................................60
prgoutqt (programmable output channel activity qualification time) ................................................................................................60
prgindef (programmable input definition) ........................................................................................................................................60
prgoutdef (programmable output definition) ....................................................................................................................................62
DM84 Rear Panel Control Commands ................................................................................................................................................63
rpingn (rear panel audio input gain) ................................................................................................................................................ 63
rpingnmin (rear panel audio input gain minimum) ..........................................................................................................................63
rpingnpre (rear panel audio input gain preset) ................................................................................................................................ 63
rpingnst (rear panel input gain step change) ..................................................................................................................................64
rpoutgn (rear panel audio output gain) ...........................................................................................................................................64
rpoutgnmin (rear panel audio output gain minimum) ......................................................................................................................64
rpoutgnpre (rear panel audio output gain preset) ...........................................................................................................................64
rpoutgnpre (rear panel audio output gain preset) ...........................................................................................................................64
rprest (restore rear panel settings) .................................................................................................................................................64
rpsave (save rear panel settings) ....................................................................................................................................................64
DM84 Command Grammar Rules .......................................................................................................................................................65
Macros and Macro Control ..................................................................................................................................................................66
Rear Panel Control - Hardware ........................................................................................................................................................... 66

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.8
24 by 12+2
Automatic
Mixing
Matrix
Input #1
Processing
Input #8
Processing
Output #1
Processing
Output #4
Processing
Tone
Generator
1 kHz, 0 dBu
Pink Noise
Generator
0 dBu
24 Output Submixes
2 Expansion Submixes
26 Automixing Aux. Data
2 Expansion Signals
Automixing Control Data
24 Output Submixes
2 Expansion Submixes
26 Automixing Aux. Data
2 Expansion Signals
Automixing Control Data
DM84 Signal Flow Block Diagram
DM1624
Master
DM1624
Slave
DM1624
Slave
1
24
Outputs
DM1624 Master
with
DM1624 Slaves
DM1624
Master
DM1612
Slave
DM812
Slave
1
24
1
12
1
12
Master and
Slave Outputs
Outputs
Outputs
DM1624 Master
with
DM1612 or DM812 Slaves
12
13Master only
Outputs
DM1612
Master
DM1612
Slave
DM812
Slave
1
1
12
1
12
Outputs
Outputs
DM1612 Master
with
DM1612 or DM812 Slaves
12
Outputs
1
Outputs
12
Outputs
1Outputs
12
1(13)
12(24)
Outputs
1(13)
12(24)
General Overview
The architecture of a LecNet2 sound system is built
around a powerful digital bus structure that is common
to all DM Series components. This DANI (Digital Audio
Network Interface) bus allows an unlimited number of
inputs, 24 outputs at the master unit at the top of a
stack, with the first 12 outputs + 2 expansion bus
signals propagated back to slave units lower in the
stack. The signal at each physical output on the DM84
unit is selected from the back propagated signals
returned to it via the DANI bus. This unique structure
provides an extremely versatile platform for signal
distribution.
A single DM84 can still “see” the entire matrix, however,
there are only 8 inputs and 4 outputs on the unit.
Stacking two DM84 processors expands the physical
outputs to a 12 in/8 out structure. With three units
stacked the full 24 in/12 out structure is implemented.
Additional units can be added to provide more inputs,
but the signals available at the output of each unit are
limited to the 12+2 back propagated signals from the
DANI bus.
High clock rate DSP microchips and the latest micro-
processors are at the core of the DM84. The design is
focused on meeting the requirements of modern
applications in automatic sound systems, and and to
provide convenience and simplicity in system design
and installation.
The DM84 can be configured via LecNet2™ software, a
powerful, user friendly set of tools for setup and con-
figuration of single or multiple units. LecNet2™ offers
quick configuration and full command of the system
through a USB or RS-232 compatible interface. Once
configured, the units operate without a host computer
connected.
Each input channel includes a high quality analog
preamplifier, with digital and analog level control to
maximize signal to noise ratio and minimize distortion,
followed by a 24-bit A-D converter. Extensive digital
signal processing is provided on each input channel.
Each input channel is processed and filtered as needed
and the signal is delivered into the matrix.
The digital matrix mixer distributes each input signal to
any selected combination of outputs, with level control
at each crosspoint. Each output receives signals from
the mixing matrix, the pink noise generator or the tone
generator as needed for setup, diagnostics or operation.
Each of the 24 outputs includes extensive signal
processing to optimize the mixed signal for the intended
purpose, such as sound reinforcement, recording or
teleconferencing.
When multiple units are stacked, mixing data and the
digital audio are passed between the slave units and
the master unit through the DANI. Multiple units can be
stacked in a master/slave configuration to expand the
number of inputs to hundreds of channels.
The audio and data from all units in the stack is gath-
ered in the matrix in the master unit, which is where the
final mix signals are generated. The first 12 final mix
signals from the master are back propagated through
the DANI to each slave. (See DM Series Back Propa-
gation Diagram.) These signals are available on the
slave unit outputs 1 through 12. If a slave unit is also a
DM1624, outputs 1 through 12 are also repeated on
outputs 13 through 24. Each output channel on a slave
unit retains its own processing (filters, compressor, etc.)
even though the signal mix is the same as that channel
on the master unit. (See diagram on page 12).

Reference Manual
Rio Rancho, NM 9
Audio Submix
and Data
Forward Propagation
Audio Final Mix
and Data
Back Propagation
MASTER
SLAVE
SLAVE
Audio Submix
and Data
Forward Propagation
Audio Final Mix
and Data
Back Propagation
Automatic Mixing Matrix
DM Series
Processor
Master
DM Series
Processor
Slave
DM Series
Processor
Slave
Digital Matrix and DANITM Bus
The core of the DM Series processors consists of a
digital matrix and a digital bus called DANI (digital audio
network interface). The digital matrix is common to all
units in a system. The DANI bus interconnects the
hardware to allow access to the matrix signal flow and
transfer data required for automatic mixing functions. In
order to understand the power and functions available
with this architecture it is helpful to think of them as
entities separate from the hardware.
In this sense a DM processor is simply a hardware-
based tap into the digital matrix via the DANI bus to
interface various types of microphones and audio
equipment with the digital matrix. Thus connected, the
processors distribute audio signals and share informa-
tion about each input and output to provide a myriad of
features and functions.
When multiple DM processors are stacked, each unit
participates with the digital structure in several ways:
• Delivering audio signals from its input terminals into
the forward-propagated submix bus
• Passing back-propagated final mix signals from the
unit above it to the next unit below it
• Applying gain and signal processing to the audio
signals at its input terminals
• Delivering audio signals to its output terminals as
selected by the setup
• Applying signal processing to the signals routed to
its output terminals
• Receiving and transmitting data required for the
automatic mixing process in the matrix
The digital matrix is common to all processors in the
stack, with automatic mixing taking place at the
crosspoints in the digital matrix. The output of each
crosspoint is then available at a variety of output
terminals on various processors in the stack.
Different processor models interface with the digital
matrix in different manners. Audio signals and data are
propagated from the Slaves to the Master unit in a
stack, then the data and some of the final mix signals in
the Master are back propagated to the Slaves. This
provides additional final mix outputs at the output
terminals on the Slave units.

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.10
SHARC is a r egistered trademark of
Analog Devices , Inc .
USB
Port
RS-232
Port
Prog I /O
Port
Micro
Contr oller
Pr og I /O C onn
DB25
LecNet 2 Conn
1/8 '' Jack
Front & Rear
USB B Conn
Contr ol Signals
8
11
12
A/D
Input Gain Control Pots
Output Volume Control Pots
8
4
8 by 24 (+ 2) Automatic Mixing Matrix
Tx
Tx
Rx
Rx
Digital
Audio
Network
Interface
(DANI)
12 + 2 Submix + Mix Control
12 + 2 Submix + Mix Control
12 + 2 Mix + Mix Control
12 + 2 Mix + Mix Control
Sync Audio Frame Sync
Quad RJ - 45 Conn
Pink Noise Generetor
1 kHz Tone Gener ator
Signal Pr ocessing D/A Out
Atten
Signal Pr ocessing D/A Out
Atten
Third Generation
SHARC ®DSP
Signal Pr ocessing D/A Out
Atten
Signal Pr ocessing D/A Out
Atten
A/D Signal Processing
A/D Signal ProcessingProg
Phan
On/ Off
Phan
On/ Off Prog
A/D Signal Processing
A/D Signal ProcessingProg
Phan
On/ Off
Phan
On/ Off Prog
A/D Signal Processing
A/D Signal ProcessingProg
Phan
On/ Off
Phan
On/ Off Prog
A/D Signal Processing
A/D Signal ProcessingProg
Phan
On/ Off
Phan
On/ Off Prog
In 5
In 6
In 7
In 8
In 4
In 3
In 2
In 1
Out 1
Out 2
Out 3
Out 4
8 input 4 output
tr i color si gnal
indicator LEDs
Off: No signal
Gr een : Si gnal pr esent
Or ange : C ompress or/ l imiter active
Red: Clipping
DM84 Functional Block Diagram

Reference Manual
Rio Rancho, NM 11
Input Processing
Each input channel provides individual stages for gain,
delay, filtering and compression. (See Typical Input
Signal Processing Blocks .) Processing levels can be
set up with the software GUI provided with the unit.
(Details on the signal processing stages are available in
the Help available with the LecNet2™ software.) There
are 8 Input Processing Blocks in the DM84.
Input Gain
The input preamplifier applies software controllable gain
with both analog and digital components, with the ratio
between them automatically optimized for maximum
signal to noise ratio. A single control point is provided
to simplify setup. A level indicator and clipping indicator
are provided in the GUI display.
Delay
A digital delay follows the input stage. A delay of up to
100 ms can be applied in 0.5 ms increments.
Filters
Six digital filters are provided to compensate for differ-
ences between various microphones and other audio
sources.
ADFE Filters
Six ADFE (automatic digital feedback eliminator) filters
are provided on each input to suppress acoustic
feedback that may occur. Applying ADFE at the input
rather than at the output allows the filters to deal
exclusively with the unique characteristics of the
individual input channel rather than with the composite
of multiple channels that appear at any one output.
Compressor
A sophisticated compressor stage is provided following
the other stages to control the dynamic characteristics
of the input. The compressor provides control over
threshold, compression ratio, plus attack and delay time
constants.
Digital Matrix
The digital matrix provides signal routing and communi-
cation with other devices in the system, and applies
automatic mixing and level control. (See
Digital Matrix
Functional Block Diagram .)
Typical Input Signal Processing Block
+
Automixer
Cell
Submix
Submix
Crosspoint Gain
-70 to 20 dB
1 dB steps
Mixing Mode
- Auto
- Direct
- Override
- Background
Audio Input
Power of the Mix
Power of the
Submix
Power of the
Submix
Digital Matrix Functional Block Diagram
(Typical Matrix Crosspoint)
Automixer Cell
The Automixer Cell is the core of the matrix. It is where
level control for the automatic mixing algorithm, mixing
mode and crosspoint gain is applied to data gathered
from other channels and devices. The cell receives
data from the master unit in a multiple unit stacked
configuration and from the slave units farther down in
the chain.

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.12
Power of the Mix
The Power of the Mix is the reference used to deter-
mine the gain to be applied to each individual output
channel. In a multi-unit stacked configuration, this data
is sent to the slaves from the master unit.
Crosspoint Gain
Crosspoint Gain is the gain selected either with the
LCD interface or the GUI that determines the level
appearing at the output.
Mixing Mode
The automatic mixing algorithm applies a patented gain
proportional algorithm (
US Patents 5,414,776 and
5,402,500 ) allowing each input assigned to a particular
output to behave differently relative to the other inputs
assigned to the output.
Four different mixing modes are available:
Auto - In Automatic mode the input applied to the
crosspoint is mixed into the output channel using
the the Adaptive Proportional Gain automixing
algorithm in the normal manner. This is the most
common setting.
Direct - Direct mode bypasses the automixing
algorithm.
Override - Override mode is selected when it is
required that the input applied to the crosspoint
always dominates the output channel when it
becomes active.
Background - Background mode is selected when
it is required that the input applied to the crosspoint
dominates the output channel only when all other
inputs are inactive.
Phantom - Phantom mode is selected when it is
required that an input applied to the crosspoint
participate in the automixing algorithm as in Auto
mode, but with a twist - the signal received from
that input does not actually appear in the mix.
Output Processing
Each output can receive signals from either the matrix, the
pink noise generator, the tone generator, or, if it is operat-
ing in a multi-unit "stacked" configuration, from the master
unit Digital Audio Network Interface (DANI) source.
Output Source Select
The digital matrix delivers the audio signals used in
normal operation. The pink noise source can be used
for sound masking during operation, and for equaliza-
tion during setup. The tone generator is used for level
adjustments and signal routing diagnostics.
The Master/Slave switch selects whether the audio
signal at the output channel will come from the digital
matrix or the DANI source. When the unit is operating
as a slave, the signal will come from the DANI source.
Mic/line Output Channels
All outputs include an attenuator to reduce the output
level from line to mic level. The passive attenuator does
not change the signal to noise ratio of the signal, but
simply applies 40 dB of attenuation to reduce the signal
level.
NOTE: The M/S (master/slave) switch selects the
signal that the output channel will deliver when the
unit is operating as a slave in a "stacked"
configuration.
IMPORTANT: Even though the output level
adjustment provides up to 70 dB of attenuation, a
line level output should not be used to deliver a
mic level signal. Using a line level output will
cause the signal to noise ratio to be reduced by 40
dB. Always use the mic level option for mic level
signals.
1 kHz Tone
Gener ator
Pink Noise
Gener ator
Tx
Tx
Rx
Rx
Digital
Audio
Network
Interface
(DANI )
24 + 2 Submi xes + Mi xing Control
24 + 2 Submi xes + Mi xing Control
12+ 2 Mixes + Mixing Control
12+2 Mixes + Mixing Control
Quad RJ -45 Conn
Signal Pr ocessing D/A Out
Atten
M
S/
Digital Matrix
Typical Output Channel

Reference Manual
Rio Rancho, NM 13
Output Signal Processing Stages
Each output channel provides a delay, nine filters, plus
a compressor and limiter to idealize the channel for its
function in the sound system. (See
Typical Output
Signal Processing Block .)
Digital Delay
Delay on the output signal is normally used for time
alignment when loudspeakers are positioned in different
locations with overlapping coverage patterns that cause
comb filtering. The signal can be delayed up to 5
seconds in 0.5 ms increments to eliminate comb
filtering and improve intelligibility.
Filters
Up to nine filters can be implemented at each output to
idealize the output channel equalization and implement
crossover networks for bi-amped or tri-amped loud-
speaker systems.
The filter types include:
Low pass
High pass
Band pass
Parametric EQ
Low shelving
High shelving
Filter slopes can be selected with 6 or 12 dB per octave
Butterworth or Bessel parameters. Multiple filters can
be assigned to creater steeper slopes in 6 dB steps.
Compressor and Limiter
A versatile compressor and limiter are provided at each
output to control the average level and dynamics of the
audio signal, and restrict the maximum output level to
optimize the channel for its purpose. Compression is
often needed when the channel is feeding a recorder,
and limiting is often used to protect a loudspeaker
system and reduce distortion and amplifier overload.
Compressor adjustment parameters include:
Threshold
Time constant
Compression ratio
Makeup gain
Limiter adjustment parameters include:
Threshold
Time constant
Output Gain and Level Indicator
The output level can be adjusted from - 70 dBu to +20
dBu in 1 dB steps to perfectly match the requirements
of the device being fed by the channel. A bar graph is
provided by the on screen GUI to accurately indicate
the output level as it operates and is adjusted.
Activity Indicator
Output Gain
-70 - +20 dB
1 dB steps
Filter Stages
Delay Compressor Limiter
Level Meter
Off, LP, HP, BP,
PEQ, LS, HS
6 or 12 dB/oct.
Butterworth or Bessel
when applicable
0 - 5s
0.5 mssteps
Threshold
Comp. Ratio
Attack TC
Release TC
Indicator
Activity Indicator
Gain Reduction Indicator
Threshold
Comp. Ratio
Attack TC
Release TC
Typical Output Signal Processing Block

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.14
DM84 Controls and Features
DM84 - 8 inputs, 4 outputs
Front Panel
POWER On/Off SwitchUSB PortGain Control Activity Indicator
USB Port
Standard USB connector for setup and control of the
DM from a Windows 2000 or Windows XP computer
system with USB interface.
MODE Switch
If a unit configured to run in a slave mode doesn’t
detect a master unit on powerup, it will refuse to boot
and the Status LED will blink rapidly. In this case,
pressing the MODE switch will force the unit to boot up
temporarily as a master to allow settings to be exam-
ined or changed. Cycling the power returns the unit to
the slave mode.
Pressing and holding the MODE switch while powering
up the unit places it in Software Update mode. The
Status LED will blink slowly once a firmware update is
initiated, then goes out when the process is completed.
Cycling the power exits the Software Update mode and
returns the unit to normal operation.
Front Panel Gain Controls
The gain of input and output audio channels is adjust-
able from the front panel of the DM84. This feature is
useful for system setup and adjustment, and may be left
enabled to allow users to “touch up” gains as needed
during operation.
Gain can be increased or decreased within a range
which is centered around 0 dB (unity) gain. The mini-
mum gain position has a special meaning - the channel
will be turned “off” when the control is rotated to the
fully counter-clockwise position. The range of adjust-
ment for each channel is individually programmable
using the Control Panel GUI GUI (in Device Setup
Menu) or Lecnet2 serial commands. Changes made to
the gain range settings take effect immediately and are
global in scope - the same settings are in effect no
matter what memory “preset” is loaded. The default
range is 30 dB (+/- 15 dB).
Any or all of the front panel gain controls may be
“locked out” to prevent unauthorized changes to the
system. This is also done using the Control Panel GUI
(in Device Setup Menu) or Lecnet2 serial commands.
Changes made to the gain control lock settings take
effect immediately and are global in scope - the same
settings are in effect no matter what memory “preset” is
loaded.
NOTE: When the Front Panel Mute feature is
enabled, the minimum gain position has a special
meaning. The channel will be muted and the
associated activity indicator will blink RED to warn
the user that no audio is being passed. This
feature can be controlled using the supplied GUI
control panel or the serial command “fpmten.”
Front Panel Input/Output Activity Indicators
These indicators reflect activity on input and output
audio channels. Useful for setup and troubleshooting,
these tri-color LEDs are interpreted as follows:
Input channels:
DARK channel is inactive
GREEN audio present (level greater than -35 dBu)
ORANGE input compressor is active
RED input is in clipping (overdriven)
BLINKING RED input has been turned off using
front panel gain control
Output channels:
DARK channel is inactive
GREEN audio present (level greater than -35 dBu)
ORANGE output compressor is active
RED output is in limiting
BLINKING RED output has been turned off using
front panel gain control
The gain of input and output audio channels is adjust-
able from the front panel of the DM84. This feature is
useful for system setup and adjustment, and may be
left enabled to allow users to “touch up” gains as
needed during operation.
Gain can be increased or decreased within a range
which is centered around 0 dB (unity) gain. The range
of adjustment for each channel is individually program-
mable using the Control Panel GUI (in Device Setup
Menu) or Lecnet2 serial commands. Changes made to
the gain range settings take effect immediately and are
global in scope - the same settings are in effect no
matter what memory “preset” is loaded. The default
range is 30 dB (+/- 15 dB). When the Front Panel Mute
feature is enabled, the minimum gain position has a
special meaning (see note above).
MODE switch

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Rio Rancho, NM 15
Rear Panel
DM84 - 8 inputs, 4 outputs
POWER Plug
Standard NEMA 5-15 three-pin power plug capable of
accepting 100-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz.
RS-232 Port
A serials RS-232 interface is provided for setup and
control via a computer, or for connecting RS-232 serial
control devices from other companies.
USB Port
Standard USB connector for setup and control of the
DM from a Windows 2000 or Windows XP computer
system with USB interface.
Programmable Input and Output Ports
Programmable inputs or outputs used to enable control
over a variety of parameters or to indicate either
channel activity or the current state of a programmable
input.
DANI
DANI, or Digital Audio Network Interface, is used to
connect the digital audio outputs of the master and
slave units in stacked configurations.
Audio Inputs and Outputs
Analog audio input and output connectors. The function
of these inputs and outputs is consistent between units.
Only the number of analog inputs and outputs vary.
LecNet 2
POWER Plug
RS232 Port
USB Port
Programmable Input and
Output Ports
DANI Audio Inputs and Outputs

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.16
Installing LecNet2™Software and USB Driver
Part of the LecNet2software package is the control
panels for the DM84. This Graphic User Interface (GUI)
is designed to allow easy setup and monitoring of the
DM84 using a computer system running Windows®
2000 or XP operating system.
Installing LecNet2™Software
1. Use the computer control panel to remove any
previously installed versions of LecNet2software.
(This will ensure you are using the latest release.)
2. Insert the LecNet2program disk supplied with the
Venue Receiver into the CD-ROM drive on the
computer system that will be used to set up and
control the Venue Receiver.
3. The CD should automatically start the installation
procedure. If it doesn't, click "Start" on the Win-
dows Task Bar then click "Run..." Enter the Drive
number followed by "Setup.exe" as shown below.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the
LecNet2software.
Installing the LecNet2™USB Driver
There are two methods of connecting a Windows-based
computer system to DM Series device, either via a USB
cable or an RS-232 cable. However, although the USB
port offers significantly increased speed and conve-
nience over standard RS-232 links, it does require the
installation of a LecNet2™ USB driver.
The LecNet2USB driver is not part of the standard
Windows®2000 and XP driver library. As a result,
connecting a computer system to a DM84 for the first
time is different than subsequent installations. There
are a few minor differences between installing the
LecNet2USB drivers on a Windows 2000 versus a
Windows XP system.
USB driver installation (Windows XP)
When a DM84 is connected to a Windows XP computer
system for the very first time, the Windows®"New
Hardware Found Wizard" automatically opens.
First time installation
When a LecNet2™ device is connected to the computer
system for the very first time, the Windows Found New
Hardware Wizard automatically opens. Use the follow-
ing procedure to install the LecNet2USB driver using
the Wizard.
1. Place the LecNet2Installation Disk in the computer
system’s CD-ROM drive.
2. On the first page of the Wizard, select the option
"Install from a list or specific location (Ad-
vanced)" and click Next> to continue.
3. Select "Search for the best driver in these
locations.", then check the box for "Search
removable media (floppy, CD-ROM...)" and click
Next> to continue.

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Rio Rancho, NM 17
4. Windows will search the CD for the driver and when
it has found it, a dialog will likely open warning you
that the driver has not passed Windows Logo
Testing. This is OK, click Continue Anyway.
5. When the driver installation is complete, the final
page of the Wizard appears. Click Finish to
complete the LecNet2 USB driver installation. It is
now possible to connect to the LecNet2device.
Installating Additional DM Units
(or LecNet2devices)
The Windows XP operating system regards all
LecNet2devices as separate USB devices because
each has a unique serial number. Because of this,
Windows XP will want to install the USB driver every
time it encounters a LecNet2device whose serial
number it does not recognize. However, if the
LecNet2USB driver has already been installed at least
once before on the computer system, the process is
simplified because the LecNet2 installation disk is not
required. Use the following procedure if the
LecNet2USB driver was previously installed on the
computer system.
1. On the first page of the Wizard, select "Install the
software automatically (Recommended)" and
click Next> to continue.
2. Windows will discover the previously installed driver
and it is likely that a dialog will open warning you
that the driver has not passed Windows Logo
Testing. Click Continue Anyway.
3. When the driver installation is complete, the final
page of the Wizard appears. Click Finish. It is now
possible to connect to the LecNet2device.

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.18
USB Driver Installation (Windows 2000)
First Time Installation
When a LecNet2 device is connected to the computer
system for the very 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. Connect a cable between the DM84's USB port and
the computer system (or one of the units in a
multiple unit installation). Place the LecNet2
Installation Disk in the computer system’s CD-ROM
drive and click "Next>" to display the next page.
2. Select "Search for a suitable driver for my
device (recommended)" and click "Next>" to
continue to the next page.
3. Check only "CD-ROM drives" then click "Next>"
to search the LecNet2CD for the USB driver. When
it is found, the LecNet2 device name will be dis-
played. Click "Next>" to install the driver.
4. When the driver installation is complete, the final
page of the Wizard appears. Click Finish.
USB Driver Installation (Windows 2000) -
Subsequent Installations
Once the LecNet2™USB driver is installed in a Win-
dows®2000 system device, and subsequent LectNet2
USB devices will invoke the Found New Hardware
Wizard which will automatically load the LecNet2™USB
driver for the new device.

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Rio Rancho, NM 19
Firmware Updates
Using the Update Wizard
The control panel can be used to download firmware
updates to the DM84. The Update Wizard guides you
through the steps of the update process. Since a failed
firmware update can leave the DM84 in an unusable
state, it is important to follow the instructions in the
Update Wizard exactly.
NOTE: The update process is possible only using
a USB connection.
Firmware updates are distributed as a file whose name
follows the pattern “dm84-vX_X_X.update”, where the
“X_X_X” is a placeholder for a firmware version number.
For example a firmware update for version number
“1.1.12” would have the filename “dm84-
v1_1_12.update”. The dots normally used to separate
the three parts of the version number are replaced with
underscores in the filename for clarity.
Before starting make sure that the proper update file is
on hand. Connect the DM84 to a computer system with
a USB cable. Apply power to the DM84 and start the
control panel software on the computer system.
1. Choose File->Update... from the Control Panel
Menu Bar to open the Update DM84 Firmware
Wizard.
2. The first page of the Wizard displays instructions for
the process of forcing the DM84 into update mode.
Follow them carefully and then click Next to move
to the SELECT DEVICE FOR UPDATE.
3. Any LecNet2 device detected on the USB port will
be listed. Click the DM84 unit to be updated. If
nothing appears on the list, or the unit to be up-
dated does not appear, check that the USB cable is
connected and click Refresh List.
Once the DM84 is selected, click Next to move to
SELECT UPDATE FILE.

DM84 Digital Matrix Processor
LECTROSONICS, INC.20
4. Enter the file name for the update in the Path to
Update File field or click the browse button next to
the filename field to locate the update file. If the
browse button is clicked, the Select DM84 update
file dialog opens. If the file name was entered
manually, click Next.
If the browse button was clicked, select the update
file from the list and click Open to transfer that
filename to the Path to Update File field. Then
click Next.
5. Click Start Update to begin the firmware update.
The update is made in two stages, an update of the
DM DSP firmware, followed by an update of the
controller firmware. The progress bar indicates the
status of each update stage.