lucoro FMTX5 User manual

FMTX5
Stereo FM Transmitter with integrated
Audio Processor, Stereo Encoder
and RDS Encoder
User Manual
WAR I G!
This Transmitter is capable of generating RF potential. Touching
internal parts, or the connected antenna system, may cause RF
burns. Antenna systems should be installed such that exposure
by any person to RF fields cannot exceed safe limits. The
permitted limits vary from country to country. Expert advice
should be sought about the safe installation of this transmission
system.
RISK OF FIRE!
RF (Radio Frequency) energy could cause ignition of combustible
surfaces during fault conditions. Installation should be left to
qualified personnel. RF can cause burns to skin. Ensure antenna
systems and feeder cables are not situated near, or could fall
onto, any combustible surface.

IMPORTA T!
Always reduce the RF Output power to minimum before changing
the transmission frequency. Once the new frequency is active,
slowly increase the RF output power control to provide the
required power output level.
WAR I G!
ever operate this device without a suitable 50 ohm load
connected to the RF OUTPUT socket, or without a suitably
installed and matched antenna system connected. Although the
output of this transmitter is protected against antenna load
faults, MIS-OPERATIO MAY RESULT I DAMAGE OT COVERED
BY A Y WARRA TY.
IMPORTA T!
Correct operation of the cooling fans in this product is vital to
reliable continuous operation. Schedule bi-annual maintenance
checks. We strongly advise the use of a standby transmitter
system for use during maintenance events or fault conditions, to
prevent prolonged breaks in transmission.
IMPORTA T!
When cycling the power off, then on, ensure that the transmitter
is off for at least 10 seconds before re-applying power, to allow
the internal circuits time to fully reset. Failure to do so may result
in no RF output (PLL failsafe mode).
Consideration should be given to fitting a suitably rated UPS if
power interruptions are likely. Similarly, telemetry reset of power
may be advisable for transmitters in remote areas, or having
restricted access arrangements.

The FMTX5 is a fully integrated 5W Stereo FM broadcast system with
audio processing, stereo encoder and RDS encoder in a single, highly
compact product.
The audio processor circuitry has slow gain-riding AGC, 5-band
compression/limiting, plus clipping and DSP 15KHz filtering.
The integral RDS encoder uses direct digital waveform synthesis for
clean, perfect generation of the 57kHz subcarrier. As well as PS (station
name) information, extended features such as RadioTEXT are also
broadcast. Being standalone, a dedicated computer or data feed are
not required. Periodic content updates are easily performed using a
Windows™ Laptop or PC, plugged into a USB port located on the back
panel. If data feeds are available at the transmitter location, and RS232
connection is provided for dynamic updates to the RadioTEXT
messages (eg. “ ow playing…”).
At the heart of the FMTX5 is a high quality PLL modulator, and the RF
Power Amplifier uses the latest high-gain Enhancement Mode MOSFET
device, achieving new levels of efficiency and reliability.
These instructions should be read in full before the transmitter is
operated.
The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future
reference.
All warnings on the transmitter and in the operating instructions
should be adhered to.
All operation and user instructions should be followed.
Use of this device into a radiating antenna requires a valid licence from
a Spectrum Management Authority in most countries.
In
troduction
Before operating

Use of this device as part of a transmission system, or combined
transmission system not specified by the manufacturer, may require
further testing to ensure that it remains compliant with the essential
requirements and other relevant provisions of current EU Low Voltage,
EMC and Radio Equipment Directives. Approval and clearance from the
Spectrum Management Authority may also be required.
Installation must adhere to safety regulations and the requirements of
the relevant authorities. We recommend that at least two people are
present during installation. Keep a file containing installation
instructions and plans, including details of the transmission system
(antennas, feeders, filters, etc) and operating instructions for all
equipment at the transmission site at all times. Display posters
detailing first aid treatment and treatment for electrical shock, along
with telephone numbers for contacting the emergency services in the
event of personal injury.
Ensure antenna system lightning strike protection is in place.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove the cover, or any
screws. There are no user serviceable parts inside; refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. The transmitter
should not be used near water. Care should be taken so that objects
do not fall - and liquids are not spilled - into the enclosure through
openings.
To reduce the risk of fire, always replace fuses with the same type and
rating.
The transmitter should be mounted into a well-ventilated standard 19
inch equipment rack. It should be situated so that its location or
position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
The transmitter should be situated away from heat sources.
The transmitter should be connected to a power supply only of the
type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the unit.
Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarisation of
this appliance is not defeated.
The unit should be cleaned only as recommended by the
manufacturer.

The transmitter should be serviced by qualified service personnel if it
does not appear to operate normally, exhibits a marked change in
performance, has been subjected to shock, damage, moisture, or if
foreign objects have ingressed.
The user should not attempt to service the transmitter beyond that
which is described in the Operating Instructions. All other servicing
should be referred to qualified service personnel.
This appliance may become warm under normal operating conditions.
Recycle according to WEEE regulations.

1. RF MO B C connector for monitoring of the RF output. Output
level will be the RF output level attenuated by approximately 40dB. ot
to be used for measurement of harmonics.
2. MPX MO B C connector for monitoring of the input to the
modulator (baseband spectrum).
3. DISPLAY G-LCD type display for system readings and settings.
4. UP / E TER / DOW Push-buttons. Press this control to navigate the
LCD menu.
5. TCP/IP ETWORK PORT Connect a CAT5 or better Ethernet cable
from this socket to the local router, if Ethernet connectivity is required.
6. MPX I PUT. If using a baseband (multiplex) feed, connect it to this
B C socket.
7. AUDIO I (LEFT) XLR Socket. Connect the left channel of a 600ohm
balanced audio feed here.
8. AUDIO I (RIGHT) XLR Socket. Connect the right channel of a
600ohm balanced audio feed here.
9. RS232 I PUT If dynamic updates of RDS RadioTEXT is required,
connect the data input here.
PI 7: RS232 Ground connection
PI 8: RS232 Data connection
Controls and Connectors

10. USB Port. Connect a Windows™ PC or Laptop to program the RDS
content. Free software can be downloaded at:
https://lucorobroadcast.com/support
11. RF OUT ' ' Socket. Connect a matched, pre-tested antenna system
with a return loss of >=14dB to this socket. Ensure all parts of the
feeder and antenna system are rated for 10W or above
12. POWER. Connect a power lead with an IEC C13 connector (and a 3
amp fuse in the plug or at the distribution panel) to this socket. Two T2
amp (time delay) fuses are fitted within this connector’s Fuse carrier.
13. EARTH. Grounding connection point (M4 stud and bolt).

The front panel display shows the, forward power level (  ) reflected
power level (  ) audio input levels (ahead of any audio processing) and
transmission frequency.
Audio levels will be optimised by the Audio Processor, however regular
checks of audio levels entering the transmitter are advised.
Should the RF output fail due to a PLL error in the modulator circuitry,
“ALARM!” will show in place of the forward power reading, and the RF
output will cease.
Try resetting the FMTX5, by switching the power off, waiting 15
seconds and then switching the power back on.
Should the reflected RF power be too high, “ALARM!” will show in place
of the reflected power reading, and the RF output will cease.
Switch off the power, and remedy the fault with the antenna (or
its cabling, connectors, etc) then try powering-up the FMTX5.
Setting the Transmission Output Power
1. Press the ‘E TER’ button. The Settings Menu will appear, with ‘RF
Power’ already selected.
Display & Menu

2. Press ‘E TER’ to select the RF Power value.
Use the ‘UP’ and ‘DOW ’ buttons to select the desired RF power output
level.
3. Press ‘E TER’ button to save the new setting.
Setting the Transmission Frequency
1. Press the ‘E TER’ button. The Settings Menu will appear.
2. Using the ‘UP’ and ‘DOW ’ UP/DOW buttons to select the Carrier
setting option.
3. Once selected, press ‘E TER’, then use the ‘UP’ and ‘DOW ’ buttons
to select the desired carrier frequency.
3. Press ‘E TER’ button to save the new setting.
Setting the Audio Processor style
1. Press the ‘E TER’ button. The Settings Menu will appear.
2. Using the ‘UP’ and ‘DOW ’ UP/DOW buttons to select the Audio
setting option.
3. Once selected, press ‘E TER’, then use the ‘UP’ and ‘DOW ’ buttons
to select the desired precessing preset.
3. Press ‘E TER’ button to save the new setting.

Connect a suitable rated test load to the RF OUPUT socket before
connecting the unit to mains power. IMPORTA T! FAILURE TO DO SO
MAY RESULT I DAMAGE OT COVERED BY WARRA TY.
Begin by setting the correct operational mode.
The unit is supplied from the factory ready for audio operation.
If the audio inputs are to be used, skip this step.
ELECTRIC SHOCK A D RF BUR HAZARD! DISCO ECT THE
POWER BEFORE REMOVI G A Y COVERS.
If the MPX input is required instead, firstly open the top cover
(by removing its retaining screws) and locate the jumper named
‘I PUT’ on the PCB inside. Move the jumper setting to the MPX
setting. Then replace the top cover.
When powering-up the transmitter, keep the ‘E TER’ button
pressed for 5 seconds. The unit will then enter MPX mode and
the LCD display will show deviation level in place of stereo audio
levels. This setting will now be stored in the unit’s non-volatile
memory and it will operate in this mode even if the power is
removed and re-applied.
Should audio mode be required at any time thereafter, repeat
the process to ‘toggle’ the unit back to audio operation, and the
LCD display will show stereo audio input levels. This setting will
now be stored in the unit’s non-volatile memory and it will
operate in this mode even if the power is removed and re-
applied.
Connect Left and Right Audio to the rear panel XLR connectors - or a
baseband source (with deviation clipping) to the MPX Input B C
connector.
Power-up the unit and reduce the RF output power to a low level. See
‘Setting the Transmission Power Output’.
Adjust the source level so that maximum audio - or MPX - levels
register just below the peak section of the LCD bar graph display. Use
ordinary programme material, rather than test tones.
Installation

Using the front panel display and buttons, set the desired transmission
frequency. See ‘Setting the Transmission Frequency’.
After changing the carrier frequency, the modulation (deviation) level
may have increased or decreased slightly. Using a calibrated test set,
check the deviation, and adjust if necessary.
ELECTRIC SHOCK A D RF BUR HAZARD! DISCO ECT THE
POWER BEFORE REMOVI G A Y COVERS.
To adjust the deviation level, remove the unit’s top cover and
locate the “DEV” preset trimmer control on the internal PCB.
Using a suitable trimmer tool carefully adjust the control.
The factory will have set the RDS and pilot injection levels. They
should need no further adjustment. However, if absolutely
necessary, these can be changed as follows ( OT
recommended):
To adjust the RDS level, remove the unit’s top cover and locate
the “RDS” preset trimmer control on the internal PCB. Using a
suitable trimmer tool carefully adjust the control.
To adjust the 19kHz Pilot level, remove the unit’s top cover and
locate the “PILOT” preset trimmer control on the internal PCB.
Using a suitable trimmer tool carefully adjust the control.
Take GREAT CARE not to adjust any other circuit trimmer
controls. Even the slightest adjustment WILL degrade
performance and may cause non-compliance to broadcast
regulations.
Then replace the top cover.
Once all settings are correct, power down the unit. Disconnect the test
load and connect to the antenna. Power on the unit and increase the
RF Power (see Setting the Transmission Power Output) to the desired
level, not exceeding the maximum rated output power.

The transmitter is designed for continuous reliable transmission,
however it is advisable to check the installation periodically checked for
correct operation and free airflow.
The following are LCD display fault indicators and their meaning:
Should ALARM! appear in place of the forward power reading,
the system has detected there is no forward power. This may be
due to a PLL failure, or due to excessive reflected power in the
antenna system. The RF power output will be muted.
Should ALARM! appear in place of the reflected power reading,
it means that the system has detected excessive reflected
power in the antenna system. The RF power output will be
decreased.
These can be cleared by pressing the ‘E TER’ button, once the
fault has been remedied. The transmitter will attempt to restart
or resume the user-set RF power output level, accordingly.
Ensure adequate air circulation during operation.
It is recommended that the transmitter is connected to an AC line
power conditioner, particularly if deployed in an Industrial
environment.
It is recommended that the transmitter is connected to a suitable UPS
(uninterruptable Power Source) if deployed at a remote or difficult to
access locations.
Like all transmission systems, annual performance checks should be
carried out to ensure continued compliance to regulatory standards.
Operation

The FMTX5 will be supplied with a notification of its factory-set IP
address, username and password. KEEP THESE DETAILS SAFE. Whilst
the transmitter’s network configuration can be changed, the username
and password are fixed. Enter the factory-set IP address in the address
bar of an internet browser.
IMPORTA T: Accessing the transmitter’s front panel menu will enter
the transmitter into ‘local mode’, where front panel settings take
precedence over the ethernet connection. The network readings and
settings will not be available until the local menu has been exited, and
the main screen is displayed on the LCD.
Select ‘Continue’. Upon successful log-in, the FMTX-series’ status page
will appear.
The IP address and associated network configurations can be changed
by clicking on the Settings button:
etwork Connection

DCHP can be set, or a new IP address entered. Include the Gateway
address of the local Router, and the desired Primary and Secondary
D S server addresses, if different.
ew browser sessions will prompt for a Username and Password.
When continuing within the current browser session there will be no
prompt to enter a Username or Password.
Like most ethernet enabled devices, the client web browser may flag
the internet connection as ' ot secure'. This can be ignored, because
hardware devices don't usually serve ‘https’ (secure) pages to clients.
However, general network security is VERY IMPORTA T. It is up to the
user to ensure adequate overall security for the internet connection.
Like all computers, on all networks, the transmitter's network port will
be continually subject to external hack and ‘Ping of Death’ attacks.
Connect the transmitter’s network port to the Internet via a Router
with port forwarding configured in such a way as to ensure maximum
local network security. Schedule regular checks, on an on-going basis,
to ensure that the Router is running the very latest manufacturer’s
firmware.
Lucoro Broadcast take no liability whatsoever for damage or losses
caused by a successful network attack.

The high-quality integrated audio processor is more than an audio
limiter found on most transmitters. It has all of the features of
expensive broadcast processors, including:
Slow gain-riding section (AGC). This will optimise all sources for
equal volume over time. So if one studio operator drives the
mixing desk louder or quieter than others, the level will
compensate accordingly.
Multiband Compressor Limiters. Bass, mid and high frequencies
of programme material are split and processed differently. This
avoids the ‘pumping’ associated with single-band limiters, where
higher frequency sounds are affected by bass powerful content.
Final HF limiting and distortion-cancelled composite clipping
ensures that deviation can be optimised, without ‘overshoot’ to
above 75kHz.
DSP FIR 15kHz audio filtering maintains audio high frequencies
up to 15kHz, but preserves the Pilot signal at 19kHz, and the
RDS sub-carrier at 57kHz.
The menu includes the ability to select from 3 pre-sets, so that
broadcasters can choose the audio style that best suits their station.
See the ‘Operation’ section for instructions relating to Audio Processor
pre-sets.
Audio Processor

When setting-up the transmitter for the first time, the ‘fixed’ RDS
content must be programmed via the USB interface, using a Windows™
PC or Laptop running the free software available at
lucorobroadcast.com/support.
1. Connect a USB cable to the USB port on the rear of the transmitter.
If the transmitter is not in service apply power. REMEMBER: ever
operate a transmitter without a test load (‘dummy load’) or matched
antenna system connected to the RF Output.
2. Ascertain the COM Port assigned for the USB connection:
Go to Windows® Device Manager and expand (Ports COM & LPT)
branch.
Make a note of the COM port number designated to the transmitter.
Avoid using COM ports above 9. If necessary, override the COM port
number assigned by Windows under ‘Advanced Settings’.
3. Download (https://lucorobroadcast.com/support) and open the RDS
Programming Application.
4. Select the relevant COM Port from the drop-down box, then fill in
the remaining fields, as required.
RDS

PS (Station ame): Maximum 8 characters including punctuation
and spaces. Enter the station name, as you
would like it to appear on RDS displays (eg.
“Hits FM”).
PI (Hex Code):
Issued by the broadcast regulator, this is a 4
digit Hexadecimal code unique to your station
(eg. C495).
AF(Frequency): Using the drop-down box, select the
transmission frequency.
If there are additional frequencies to add
(relay transmitters, or transmitters in
neighbouring areas carrying the same
content), enter their frequencies too (up to 4),
and tick the corresponding tick box.
TP (Traffic Program):
Select this option O LY if your station
broadcasts regular traffic and travel bulletins.
RadioTEXT:
Maximum 64 characters including punctuation
and spaces. Enter a message, as you would
like it to appear on receivers showing
RadioTEXT (eg. "Music, news and information
24 hours a day on Hits FM") Can include
phone-in numbers, a website address, etc).
PTY (Program Type):
Select the category which will best categorises
your station's main programme content.
Once all of the information is entered correctly, press SE D.
After a few seconds, the transmitter will now be transmitting the
updated RDS content.
If desired, the dynamic RDS RadioTEXT feature can be used.
It is recommended that a default generic RadioTEXT message (eg.
station slogan and contact details) be included in the above USB
programming. After a power re-set, this generic message will appear
until dynamic updates are sent via RS232.

The FMTX-series uses a transparent ASCII protocol, to suit a number of
radio playout systems with the minimum of additional data processing
or interfacing requirements.
IMPORTA T! The 9-way D-Sub connector on the rear of the
transmitter is used for a number of control and monitoring functions.
The RS232 input for the RDS dynamic RadioTEXT feature shares this
connector, therefore pin connections are not the same as a standard
RS232 port. Take care OT to connect an ordinary RS232 cable with
standard wiring to this connector. Damage to – or malfunction of – the
transmitter’s circuits may result.
RS232
9
-
pin ‘D’
-
sub connection
Computer: 3 (TX), 5 (G D)
FMTX-series: 6 (RX) 7 (G D)
The RS232 port provided on streaming studio-transmitter links can be
used to send ‘ ow Playing…’ data to the transmitter. Alternatively,
transparent ‘RS232 over TCP/IP ethernet’ converters are widely
available for internet or network connectivity.
Using RS232, simply send a sequence of ASCII characters (up to 64
characters in total length), followed by the ASCII Form Feed character
0x0C (equal to CTRL+‘L’ on a keyboard) . This Form Feed character
commands the RDS encoder to write empty spaces over unused
characters in the remaining RadioTEXT field, then return to the start
position of the 64-character register, ready for the next update.
RS232 Data Format:
Most ASCII characters in the range (32 to 122 inclusive) are supported
by the encoder. However, it should be noted that many radio receivers,
especially older models, can only decode basic characters from this
range. Use of characters other than A to Z or 0 to 9 may not appear –
or cause unexpected results – on some radio displays.
For TA switching during traffic and travel bulletins, the ASCII characters
below can be used. A Form Feed Character is OT required, and a full
64 character text field is available immediately after sending these
control characters.
RDS TA On
124
0x
7C
|
RDS TA Off 126 0x7E ~
9600bps 8 1

Remember to send the RDS TA Off character immediately after each
travel bulletin. Misuse of the RDS Traffic Announcement feature will
result in sanctions by the broadcasting authority. RDS TA can also be
activated and deactivated via the transmitter’s 9-way ‘D’-sub connector.
Broadcasters planning to use the RDS TA feature, either via RS232 or
via the 9-way ‘D’-sub connector, MUST ensure that the ‘TP’ option is set
(ticked) when programming the fixed RDS content via USB.

Declaration of Conformity
We, Lucoro Broadcast
Clay Pit Lane
Roecliffe
York
YO51 9FS
hereby take sole responsibility to confirm that the products:
FMTX5
which this declaration refers to, conforms to all applicable
requirements of EU Directive 2014/53/EU and is CE marked
accordingly:
Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU:
IEC 60950-1:2005/A2:2013
Safety Requirements for equipment < 600V
EMC Directive 2014/30/EU:
ETSI E 301 489-53 v1.1.0 (ETSI E 301 489-1 v2.1.1
ERM/EMC for Radio Equipment
Specific Conditions for FM Transmitters (Part 11)
Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU:
ETSI E 302018-2 v2.1.1
Transmitting Equipment for FM Radio Broadcasting service
The following operation conditions and installation arrangements have
to be presumed:
(i) According to Operating Instruction Manual
(ii) Connected lead lengths of 2 metres or less
M. O’Rorke, Director
ovember 2022