Orban Optimod-AM 9400 User manual

Operating Manual
OPTIMOD-AM
9400
Digital Audio Processor
Version 1.2 Software

IMPORTANT NOTE: Refer to the unit’s rear panel for your Model Number.
Model Number: Description:
9400 OPTIMOD 9400, Digital I/O, Five-band stereo proc-
essing, digital radio / HD AM / netcast processing,
115V (for 90-130V operation) or 230V (for 200-250V
operation)
9400J As above, but for 90-117V operation.
MANUAL:
Part Number: Description:
96129.120.03 9400 Operating Manual
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
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 accompa-
nying literature. Read the manual.
In accordance to the WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment) direc-
tive of the European Parliament, this product must not be discarded into the
municipal waste stream in any of the Member States. This product may be
sent back to your Orban dealer at end of life where it will be reused or recycled
at no cost to you.
If this product is discarded into an approved municipal WEEE collection site or
turned over to an approved WEEE recycler at end of life, your Orban dealer
must be notified and supplied with model, serial number and the name and
location of site/facility.
Please contact your Orban dealer for further assistance.
www.orban.com

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.
Retain Instructions: The safety and operation instructions should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings: All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
Follow Instructions: All operation and user instructions should be followed.
Water and Moisture: The appliance should not be used near water (e.g., near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet base-
ment, or near a swimming pool, etc.).
Ventilation: The appliance should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appli-
ance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a
bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.
Heat: The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers)
that produce heat.
Power Sources: The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on
the appliance.
Grounding or Polarization: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.
Power-Cord Protection: Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
Cleaning: The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.
Non-Use Periods: The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
Object and Liquid Entry: Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
Damage Requiring Service: The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when: The power supply cord or the plug has
been damaged; or Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the appliance; or The appliance has been exposed to rain; or The appliance does
not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
Servicing: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be
referred to qualified service personnel.
The Appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.
Safety Instructions (European)
Notice For U.K. Customers If Your Unit Is Equipped With A Power Cord.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live
As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, pro-
ceed as follows:
The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol, or col-
oured green, or green and yellow.
The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal marked N or coloured black.
The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal marked L or coloured red.
The power cord is terminated in a CEE7 / 7 plug (Continental Europe). The green / yellow wire is connected directly to the unit's chassis. If you need to
change the plug and if you are qualified to do so, refer to the table below.
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the unit or in the system to which it is connected can result in full line voltage between
chassis and earth ground. Severe injury or death can then result if the chassis and earth ground are touched simultaneously.
Conductor WIRE COLOR
Normal Alt
L LIVE BROWN BLACK
N NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
E EARTH GND GREEN-YELLOW GREEN
AC Power Cord Color Coding

Safety Instructions (German)
Gerät nur an der am Leistungsschild vermerkten Spannung und Stromart betreiben.
Sicherungen nur durch solche, gleicher Stromstärke und gleichen AbschalAMerhaltens ersetzen. Sicherungen nie überbrücken.
Jedwede Beschädigung des Netzkabels vermeiden. Netzkabel nicht knicken oder quetschen. Beim Abziehen des Netzkabels den
Stecker und nicht das Kabel enfassen. Beschädigte Netzkabel sofort auswechseln.
Gerät und Netzkabel keinen übertriebenen mechanischen Beaspruchungen aussetzen.
Um Berührung gefährlicher elektrischer Spannungen zu vermeiden, darf das Gerät nicht geöffnet werden. Im Fall von Betriebsstörun-
gen darf das Gerät nur Von befugten Servicestellen instandgesetzt werden. Im Gerät befinden sich keine, durch den Benutzer
reparierbare Teile.
Zur Vermeidung von elektrischen Schlägen und Feuer ist das Gerät vor Nässe zu schützen. Eindringen von Feuchtigkeit und
Flüssigkeiten in das Gerät vermeiden.
Bei Betriebsstörungen bzw. nach Eindringen von Flüssigkeiten oder anderen Gegenständen, das Gerät sofort vom Netz trennen und
eine qualifizierte Servicestelle kontaktieren.
Safety Instructions (French)
On s'assurera toujours que la tension et la nature du courant utilisé correspondent bien à ceux indiqués sur la plaque de l'appareil.
N'utiliser que des fusibles de même intensité et du même principe de mise hors circuit que les fusibles d'origine. Ne jamais
shunter les fusibles.
Eviter tout ce qui risque d'endommager le câble seceur. On ne devra ni le plier, ni l'aplatir. Lorsqu'on débranche l'appareil,
tirer la fiche et non le câble. Si un câble est endommagé, le remplacer immédiatement.
Ne jamais exposer l'appareil ou le câble ä une contrainte mécanique excessive.
Pour éviter tout contact averc une tension électrique dangereuse, on n'oouvrira jamais l'appareil. En cas de dysfonctionnement,
l'appareil ne peut être réparé que dans un atelier autorisé. Aucun élément de cet appareil ne peut être réparé par l'utilisateur.
Pour éviter les risques de décharge électrique et d'incendie, protéger l'appareil de l'humidité. Eviter toute pénétration
d'humidité ou fr liquide dans l'appareil.
En cas de dysfonctionnement ou si un liquide ou tout autre objet a pénétré dans l'appareil couper aussitôt l'appareil
de son alimentation et s'adresser à un point de service aprésvente autorisé.
Safety Instructions (Spanish)
Hacer funcionar el aparato sólo con la tensión y clase de corriente señaladas en la placa indicadora de características.
Reemplazar los fusibles sólo por otros de la misma intensidad de corriente y sistema de desconexión. No poner nunca los fusibles en
puente.
Proteger el cable de alimentación contra toda clase de daños. No doblar o apretar el cable. Al desenchufar, asir el enchufe y no el
cable. Sustituir inmediatamente cables dañados.
No someter el aparato y el cable de alimentación a esfuerzo mecánico excesivo.
Para evitar el contacto con tensiones eléctricas peligrosas, el aparato no debe abrirse. En caso de producirse fallos de funcionamiento,
debe ser reparado sólo por talleres de servicio autorizados. En el aparato no se encuentra ninguna pieza que pudiera ser reparada por
el usuario.
Para evitar descargas eléctricas e incendios, el aparato debe protegerse contra la humedad, impidiendo que penetren ésta o líquidos
en el mismo.
En caso de producirse fallas de funcionamiento como consecuencia de la penetración de líquidos u otros objetos en el aparato,
hay que desconectarlo inmediatamente de la red y ponerse en contacto con un taller de servicio autorizado.
Safety Instructions (Italian)
Far funzionare l'apparecchio solo con la tensione e il tipo di corrente indicati sulla targa riportante i dati sulle prestazioni.
Sostituire i dispositivi di protezione (valvole, fusibili ecc.) solo con dispositivi aventi lo stesso amperaggio e lo stesso comportamento
di interruzione. Non cavallottare mai i dispositivi di protezione.
Evitare qualsiasi danno al cavo di collegamento alla rete. Non piegare o schiacciare il cavo. Per staccare il cavo, tirare la presa e mai
il cavo. Sostituire subito i cavi danneggiati.
Non esporre l'apparecchio e il cavo ad esagerate sollecitazioni meccaniche.
Per evitare il contatto con le tensioni elettriche pericolose, l'apparecchio non deve venir aperto. In caso di anomalie di funzionamento
l'apparecchio deve venir riparato solo da centri di servizio autorizzati. Nell'apparecchio non si trovano parti che possano essere riparate
dall'utente.
Per evitare scosse elettriche o incendi, l'apparecchio va protetto dall'umidità. Evitare che umidità o liquidi entrino nell'apparecchio.
In caso di anomalie di funzionamento rispettivamente dopo la penetrazione di liquidi o oggetti nell'apparecchio, staccare immediatamente
l'apparecchio dalla rete e contattare un centro di servizio qualificato.

PLEASE READ BEFORE PROCEEDING!
Manual
The Operating Manual contains instructions to verify the proper operation of this unit and initialization of certain options.
You will find these operations are most conveniently performed on the bench before you install the unit in the rack.
Please review the Manual, especially the installation section, before unpacking the unit.
Trial Period Precautions
If your unit has been provided on a trial basis:
You should observe the following precautions to avoid reconditioning charges in case you later wish to return the unit to
your dealer.
(1) Note the packing technique and save all packing materials. It is not wise to ship in other than the factory carton. (Re-
placements cost $35.00).
(2) Avoid scratching the paint or plating. Set the unit on soft, clean surfaces.
(3) Do not cut the grounding pin from the line cord.
(4) Use care and proper tools in removing and tightening screws to avoid burring the heads.
(5) Use the nylon-washered rack screws supplied, if possible, to avoid damaging the panel. Support the unit when tighten-
ing the screws so that the threads do not scrape the paint inside the slotted holes.
Packing
When you pack the unit for shipping:
(1) Tighten all screws on any barrier strip(s) so the screws do not fall out from vibration.
(2) Wrap the unit in its original plastic bag to avoid abrading the paint.
(3) Seal the inner and outer cartons with tape.
If you are returning the unit permanently (for credit), be sure to enclose:
The Manual(s)
The Registration / Warranty Card
The Line Cord
All Miscellaneous Hardware (including the Rack Screws and Keys)
The Extender Card (if applicable)
The Monitor Rolloff Filter(s) (OPTIMOD-AM only)
The COAX Connecting Cable (OPTIMOD-AM and OPTIMOD-AM only)
Your dealer may charge you for any missing items.
If you are returning a unit for repair, do not enclose any of the above items.
Further advice on proper packing and shipping is included in the Manual (see Table of Contents).
Trouble
If you have problems with installation or operation:
(1) Check everything you have done so far against the instructions in the Manual. The information contained therein is
based on our years of experience with OPTIMOD and broadcast stations.
(2) Check the other sections of the Manual (consult the Table of Contents and Index) to see if there might be some sug-
gestions regarding your problem.
(3) After reading the section on Factory Assistance, you may call Orban Customer Service for advice during normal Cali-
fornia business hours. The number is (1) 510 / 351-3500.

WARNING
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy. If it is not installed
and used as directed by this manual, it may cause interference to radio communication. This
equipment complies with the limits for a Class A computing device, as specified by FCC
Rules, Part 15, subject J, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such
interference when this type of equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference. If it does, the user will be
required to eliminate the interference at the user’s expense.
WARNING
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digi-
tal apparatus set out in the radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications. (Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits radioelectriques de-
passant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques [de las class A] prescrites dans le
Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du
Canada.)
IMPORTANT
Perform the installation under static control conditions. Simply walking across a rug can gen-
erate a static charge of 20,000 volts. This is the spark or shock you may have felt when
touching a doorknob or some other conductive surface. A much smaller static discharge is
likely to destroy one or more of the CMOS semiconductors employed in OPTIMOD-AM. Static
damage will not be covered under warranty.
There are many common sources of static. Most involve some type of friction between two
dissimilar materials. Some examples are combing your hair, sliding across a seat cover or
rolling a cart across the floor. Since the threshold of human perception for a static discharge
is 3000 volts, you will not even notice many damaging discharges.
Basic damage prevention consists of minimizing generation, discharging any accumulated
static charge on your body or workstation, and preventing that discharge from being sent to or
through an electronic component. You should use a static grounding strap (grounded through
a protective resistor) and a static safe workbench with a conductive surface. This will prevent
any buildup of damaging static.
U.S. patents 4,208,548, 4,460,871, 5,737,434, 6,337,999, 6,434,241 6,618,486, and 6.937,912
protect OPTIMOD 9400. Other patents pending.
Orban and Optimod are registered trademarks.
All trademarks are property of their respective companies.
This manual is part number 96129.120.03
The manual published April 2009
© Copyright Orban
8350 East Evans Suite C4, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 USA
Phone: (1) [phone]; Fax: (1) [phone]; E-Mail: [email protected]; Site: www.orban.com

Operating Manual
OPTIMOD-AM
9400
Digital Audio Processor
Version 1.2 Software

Table of Contents
Index.........................................................................................................................0-9
Section 1 Introduction
.........................................................................................................................................1-1
ABOUT THIS MANUAL.......................................................................................................1-1
THE OPTIMOD-AM 9400 DIGITAL AUDIO PROCESSOR ......................................................1-1
Making the Most of the AM Channel....................................................................1-2
Controllable and Adjustable...................................................................................1-3
Versatile Installation................................................................................................1-4
PRESETS IN OPTIMOD-AM..............................................................................................1-5
Factory Presets .........................................................................................................1-5
User Presets..............................................................................................................1-6
INPUT/OUTPUT CONFIGURATION ........................................................................................1-7
Digital AES3 Left/Right Input/Outputs...................................................................1-7
Analog Left/Right Input/Outputs ...........................................................................1-7
Remote Control Interface .......................................................................................1-8
Computer Interface .................................................................................................1-8
RS-232 Serial Port ............................................................................................................. 1-8
RJ45 Ethernet Connector ................................................................................................. 1-8
LOCATION OF OPTIMOD-AM..........................................................................................1-8
Optimal Control of Peak Modulation Levels.........................................................1-8
Best Location for OPTIMOD-AM ..........................................................................1-10
If the transmitter is not accessible:................................................................................ 1-10
If the transmitter is accessible: ...................................................................................... 1-10
STUDIO-TRANSMITTER LINK.............................................................................................1-11
Transmission from Studio to Transmitter.............................................................1-11
Digital Links .................................................................................................................... 1-11
Dual Microwave STLs...................................................................................................... 1-12
Analog Landline (PTT / Post Office Line)....................................................................... 1-13
AM Transmitters and Antennas............................................................................1-13
Bypassing the Transmitter's Internal Filters and Clippers...................................1-14
Power Supplies ......................................................................................................1-15
Pre-1965 Transmitters............................................................................................1-16
Asymmetry .............................................................................................................1-16
Transmission Presets and Transmitter Equalization ............................................1-17
Antenna System.....................................................................................................1-19
USING LOSSY DATA REDUCTION IN THE STUDIO..................................................................1-19
ABOUT TRANSMISSION LEVELS AND METERING ..................................................................1-20
Meters ....................................................................................................................1-20
Figure 1-1: Absolute Peak Level, VU and PPM Reading ............................................... 1-21
Studio Line-up Levels and Headroom ..................................................................1-21
Transmission Levels................................................................................................1-21
LINE-UP FACILITIES .........................................................................................................1-22
Metering of Levels.................................................................................................1-22
Built-in Calibrated Line-up Tones.................................................................................. 1-22
Built-in Calibrated Bypass Test Mode............................................................................ 1-22
MONITORING.................................................................................................................1-23
Modulation Monitors and Their RF Amplifiers ...................................................1-23
Monitoring on Loudspeakers and Headphones..................................................1-23
Monitor Rolloff Filter..................................................................................................... 1-23

Headphones ....................................................................................................................1-24
EAS TEST......................................................................................................................1-24
Figure 1-2: NRSC Modified 75 µs De-emphasis..............................................................1-25
PC CONTROL AND SECURITY PASSCODE.............................................................................1-25
WHY THE NORTH AMERICAN NRSC STANDARD?...............................................................1-26
Figure 1-3: NRSC Lowpass Filter .....................................................................................1-26
AM Stereo Introduces a Pre-emphasis Dilemma ...........................................................1-26
NRSC Standard Pre-emphasis and Low-pass Filtering ...................................................1-27
WARRANTY,USER FEEDBACK...........................................................................................1-28
User Feedback........................................................................................................1-28
LIMITED WARRANTY.............................................................................................1-28
INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY ...............................................................................1-28
EXTENDED WARRANTY ........................................................................................1-29
Section 2 Installation
.........................................................................................................................................2-1
INSTALLING THE 9400.......................................................................................................2-1
Figure 2-1: AC Line Cord Wire Standard.......................................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2: Wiring the 25-pin Remote Interface Connector...........................................2-4
Figure 2-3: 9400 Serial Port Pin Identification................................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-4: Jumper Positions, Monitor Roll-Off Filter .....................................................2-5
Figure 2-5: Frequency Response Curves as Function of ROLLOFF Control, Monitor Rolloff
Filter Strapped for 18 dB/Octave......................................................................................2-6
Figure 2-6: Monitor Rolloff Filter Schematic Diagram....................................................2-7
9400 REAR PANEL ...........................................................................................................2-7
INPUT AND OUTPUT CONNECTIONS.....................................................................................2-8
Cable.........................................................................................................................2-8
Connectors ...............................................................................................................2-8
Analog Audio Input.................................................................................................2-9
Analog Audio Outputs............................................................................................2-9
AES3 Digital Input and Output.............................................................................2-10
Grounding..............................................................................................................2-11
Power Ground........................................................................................................2-11
Circuit Ground .......................................................................................................2-11
9400 FRONT PANEL .......................................................................................................2-12
STUDIO LEVEL CONTROLLER INSTALLATION (OPTIONAL) .......................................................2-13
If you are using Orban 8200ST external AGC......................................................2-14
Figure 2-7: 8200ST Jumper Settings (*Factory Configuration) .....................................2-15
QUICK SETUP.................................................................................................................2-16
ANALOG AND DIGITAL I/O SETUP.....................................................................................2-23
Figure 2-8: Effect of the LPF Shape Control with F = 5.0 kHz....................................... 2-27
Overview of Transmitter Equalization...........................................................................2-32
Description of the TX EQ Controls .................................................................................2-32
Procedure for LF Equalization........................................................................................ 2-32
Figure 2-9: Unequalized RF envelope (showing tilt).....................................................2-33
Figure 2-10: RF envelope requiring no tilt equalization...............................................2-33
Figure 2-11: Unequalized RF envelope (showing ringing) ........................................... 2-35
Figure 2-12: RF envelope showing successful HF equalization..................................... 2-35
AUTOMATION USING THE 9400’S INTERNAL CLOCK............................................................2-39
SECURITY AND PASSCODE PROGRAMMING.........................................................................2-42
To Create a Passcode: ............................................................................................2-43

To Edit a Passcode:.................................................................................................2-43
To Delete a Passcode: ............................................................................................2-44
To Lock the Front Panel Immediately: .................................................................2-44
To Program local lockout: .....................................................................................2-44
To Unlock the Front Panel: ...................................................................................2-45
Dial-up Networking and the Passcode.................................................................2-45
If You Have Forgotten Your Passcode..................................................................2-45
REMOTE CONTROL INTERFACE PROGRAMMING ..................................................................2-46
NETWORKING AND REMOTE CONTROL..............................................................................2-47
RECALLING PRESETS VIA ETHERNET USING TERMINAL EMULATOR SOFTWARE .....................2-50
To set a different port number: .................................................................................... 2-50
To recall a preset: ........................................................................................................... 2-51
INSTALLING 9400 PC REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE ..........................................................2-51
Installing the Necessary Windows Services..........................................................2-52
Check Hardware Requirements............................................................................2-52
Running the Orban Installer Program .................................................................2-53
Setting Up Ethernet, LAN, and VPN Connections ...............................................2-54
Conclusion..............................................................................................................2-54
SYNCHRONIZING OPTIMOD TO A NETWORK TIME SERVER....................................................2-55
Table 2-1: NIST-referenced timeservers......................................................................... 2-55
APPENDIX:SETTING UP SERIAL COMMUNICATIONS .............................................................2-59
Preparing for Communication through Null Modem Cable ..............................2-59
Connecting Using Windows 2000 Direct Serial Connection:..............................2-59
Connecting Using Windows XP Direct Serial Connection ..................................2-64
Preparing for Communication through Modems ...............................................2-69
Connecting Using Windows 2000 Modem Connection ......................................2-69
Connecting using Windows XP Modem Connection ..........................................2-75
UPDATING YOUR 9400’S SOFTWARE.................................................................................2-81
Section 3 Operation
.........................................................................................................................................3-1
9400 FRONT PANEL .........................................................................................................3-1
SOME AUDIO PROCESSING CONCEPTS...................................................................................3-3
Loudness and density....................................................................................................... 3-4
OPTIMOD-AM PROCESSING............................................................................................3-5
AM Processing: The Art of Compromise ................................................................3-6
Shortwave/HF Processing ................................................................................................. 3-7
Working Together............................................................................................................ 3-8
Processing for Low Bitrate Codecs and HD Radio.................................................3-8
Fundamental Requirements: High-Quality Source Material and Accurate
Monitoring.............................................................................................................3-10
Low-Delay Monitoring for Headphones ....................................................................... 3-10
Monitor Rolloff Filter for the Analog AM Channel...................................................... 3-11
Reference Radios for Adjusting the Analog AM Processing ........................................ 3-11
Modulation Monitors..................................................................................................... 3-12
More About Audio Processing .............................................................................3-12
Judging Loudness........................................................................................................... 3-13
Reverberation................................................................................................................. 3-13
CUSTOMIZING THE 9400’S SOUND ...................................................................................3-14
Basic Modify...........................................................................................................3-14
Full Modify .............................................................................................................3-16
Advanced Modify ..................................................................................................3-16

Gain Reduction Metering .....................................................................................3-17
To Create or Save a User Preset ............................................................................3-17
FACTORY PROGRAMMING PRESETS ...................................................................................3-18
To import an HD preset from the 9400’s front panel: ..................................................3-20
To import an HD preset from PC Remote:.....................................................................3-20
Description of the Analog AM Factory Presets .............................................................3-21
Table 3-1: Analog AM Factory Programming Presets ...................................................3-22
Description of the Digital Radio (HD) Factory Presets ..................................................3-24
Table 3-2: Digital Radio Factory Programming Presets................................................. 3-24
EQUALIZER CONTROLS ....................................................................................................3-28
Table 3-3: Equalization Controls .................................................................................... 3-29
Figure 3-1: HF Receiver Equalizer Curves.......................................................................3-33
STEREO ENHANCER CONTROLS .........................................................................................3-36
Table 3-4: Stereo Enhancer Controls..............................................................................3-36
Table 3-5: AGC Controls..................................................................................................3-37
AGC CONTROLS ............................................................................................................3-37
Advanced AGC Controls........................................................................................3-40
CLIPPER CONTROLS .........................................................................................................3-42
Table 3-6: Clipper Controls............................................................................................. 3-42
Table 3-7: Multiband and Distortion Controls ..............................................................3-45
MULTIBAND DYNAMICS PROCESSING ................................................................................3-45
Table 3-8: MB Attack / Release Controls........................................................................3-46
Table 3-9: MB Band Mix Controls...................................................................................3-48
Advanced Multiband Controls..............................................................................3-52
TEST MODES .................................................................................................................3-54
Table 3-10: Test Modes................................................................................................... 3-54
ABOUT THE 9400’S DIGITAL RADIO PROCESSING................................................................3-55
Delay Difference between Digital-Channel and AM Outputs ...........................3-56
Table 3-11: Digital Radio I/O Setup Controls.................................................................3-56
Digital Radio I/O Setup Controls...........................................................................3-56
Monitoring......................................................................................................................3-56
Analog Outputs ..............................................................................................................3-57
Digital Outputs ...............................................................................................................3-57
Stereo/Mono Mode.........................................................................................................3-58
Table 3-12: Digital Radio Multiband Controls............................................................... 3-58
Digital Radio Operating Controls.........................................................................3-58
Table 3-13: Digital Radio Band Mix Controls.................................................................3-60
USING THE 9400 PC REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE ...........................................................3-61
To set up a new connection:.................................................................................3-61
To initiate communication:...................................................................................3-62
To modify a control setting:..................................................................................3-63
To recall a preset:...................................................................................................3-63
To import an HD preset:........................................................................................3-63
To save a user preset you have created: ..............................................................3-64
To back up User Presets, system files, and automation files onto your computer’s
hard drive:..............................................................................................................3-64
To restore archived presets, system files, and automation files:........................3-65
To modify INPUT/OUTPUT and SYSTEM SETUP: ...........................................................3-66
To modify AUTOMATION: .........................................................................................3-66
To group multiple 9400s: ......................................................................................3-66
Navigation Using the Keyboard ...........................................................................3-66
To Quit the Program..............................................................................................3-67

About Aliases created by Optimod 9400 PC Remote Software .........................3-67
Multiple Installations of Optimod 9400 PC Remote ...........................................3-67
To share an archived User Preset between 9400s:........................................................ 3-69
Section 4 Maintenance
.........................................................................................................................................4-1
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................4-1
SUBASSEMBLY REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT.......................................................................4-2
FIELD AUDIT OF PERFORMANCE..........................................................................................4-6
Table 4-1: Decoder Chart for Power Supervisor ............................................................. 4-8
Table 4-2: Layout Diagram of J7, with expected voltages on each pin......................... 4-9
Table 4-3: Typical Power Supply Voltages and AC Ripple.............................................. 4-9
Section 5 Troubleshooting
.........................................................................................................................................5-1
PROBLEMS AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS...............................................................................5-1
RFI, Hum, Clicks, or Buzzes............................................................................................... 5-1
Poor Peak Modulation Control........................................................................................ 5-1
Audible Distortion On-Air................................................................................................ 5-2
Audible Noise on Air........................................................................................................ 5-3
Shrill, Harsh Sound ........................................................................................................... 5-4
Dull Sound ........................................................................................................................ 5-4
Excessive Occupied Bandwidth........................................................................................ 5-4
System Will Not Pass Line-Up Tones at 100% Modulation ............................................ 5-5
System Will Not Pass Emergency Alert System (“EAS” USA Standard) Tones at the
Legally Required Modulation Level ................................................................................ 5-5
System Receiving 9400’s Digital Output Will Not Lock .................................................. 5-5
L–R (Stereo Difference Channel) Will Not Null with Monophonic Input ...................... 5-5
AM Analog and Digital Channels Have Unequal Loudness ........................................... 5-5
Loudness Decreases Momentarily When the Radio Crossfades between Analog and
Digital Channels ............................................................................................................... 5-6
Excessive Sibilance (“ess” sounds) in the Digital Radio Channel ................................... 5-6
“Swishing,” “Phasing,” or “Underwater” Artifacts in the Digital Radio Channel ....... 5-6
General Dissatisfaction with Subjective Sound Quality.................................................. 5-6
Security Passcode Lost (When Unit is Locked Out) ......................................................... 5-7
Connection Issues between the 9400 and a PC, Modem, or Network ................5-7
Troubleshooting Connections.................................................................................5-8
You Cannot Access the Internet After Making a Direct or Modem Connection to
the 9400: ..................................................................................................................5-8
OS-SPECIFIC TROUBLESHOOTING ADVICE ............................................................................5-9
Troubleshooting Windows 2000 Direct Connect:..................................................5-9
Troubleshooting Windows 2000 Modem Connect:.............................................5-10
Troubleshooting Windows XP Direct Connect: ...................................................5-11
Troubleshooting Windows XP Modem Connect: ................................................5-12
TROUBLESHOOTING IC OPAMPS .......................................................................................5-13
TECHNICAL SUPPORT.......................................................................................................5-14
FACTORY SERVICE...........................................................................................................5-14
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................................................5-14
Section 6 Technical Data
.........................................................................................................................................6-1

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................6-1
Performance.............................................................................................................6-1
Installation ...............................................................................................................6-2
CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION........................................................................................................6-4
Overview ..................................................................................................................6-5
Control Circuits ........................................................................................................6-5
User Control Interface and LCD Display Circuits ...................................................6-6
Input Circuits............................................................................................................6-7
Output Circuits.........................................................................................................6-9
DSP Circuit..............................................................................................................6-10
Power Supply .........................................................................................................6-11
ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................................6-11
PARTS LIST.....................................................................................................................6-13
Obtaining Spare Parts ...........................................................................................6-13
Base Board .............................................................................................................6-14
CPU Module ...........................................................................................................6-15
RS-232 Board..........................................................................................................6-17
Power Supply .........................................................................................................6-17
Input/Output (I/O) Board: Main Board.................................................................6-18
Input/Output (I/O) Board: Daughter Board .........................................................6-23
DSP Board...............................................................................................................6-23
Display Board .........................................................................................................6-25
SCHEMATICS AND PARTS LOCATOR DRAWINGS ...................................................................6-26
Function Description Drawing Page
Chassis Circuit Board Locator and Basic In-
terconnections
Top view
(not to scale)
6-29
Base Board
Glue logic; supports CPU module
and RS-232 daughterboard.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-30
System Connections Schematic 1 of 4 6-31
CPU module interface Schematic 2 of 4 6-32
Power Supply Monitor Schematic 3 of 4 6-33
CPLD, General Purpose Interface,
and Remotes
Schematic 4 of 4 6-34
CPU Module
Control microprocessor. Services
front panel, serial port, Ethernet,
DSP board, and control board. Re-
sides on base board.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-35
Ethernet Schematic 1 of 5 6-36
General Purpose Bus Schematic 2 of 5 6-37
Memory Schematic 3 of 5 6-38
Miscellaneous Functions Schematic 4 of 5 6-39
Power and Ground Distribution Schematic 5 of 5 6-40
RS-232 Board
Supports Serial Port Parts Locator
Drawing
6-41
Schematic 1 of 1 6-42

Power Supply ±15V analog supply; ±5V analog
supply; +5V digital supply
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-43
Schematic 1 of 1 6-44
I/O Board
Analog Input/Output
AES3 Input/Output
Composite Output
SCA Input.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-45
L and R Analog Inputs Schematic 1 of 5 6-46
L and R Analog Outputs Schematic 2 of 5 6-47
Control and Digital I/O Schematic 4 of 5 6-48
Interface and Power Distribution Schematic 5 of 5 6-49
I/O Daughter
Board Digital Outputs 1 and 2 Parts Locator
Drawing
6-50
Schematic 1 of 1 6-51
DSP Board
DSP Chips; Local +3.3V regulator.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-52
DSP Extended Serial Audio Inter-
face (ESAI)
Schematic 1 of 7 6-53
DSP Host Interface Schematic 2 of 7 6-54
DSP Serial Peripheral Interface,
Power, and Ground
Schematic 3 of 7 6-55
ISA Bus 8-bit I/O Schematic 4 of 7 6-56
Serial Audio Interface and Clock
Generation
Schematic 5 of 7 6-57
Power Distribution Schematic 6 of 7 6-58
No-Connects Schematic 7 of 7 6-59
Display Board
Front-Panel LCD, LEDs, Buttons,
and Rotary Encoder
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-60
Schematic 1 of 1 6-61
DSP Block
Diagram
Shows signal processing 6-62
Monitor
Rolloff Filter
Accessory packaged with 9400 Schematic 1 of 1 2-7

Index
8
8200ST 2- · 14
9
9400 HD 2- · 55
9400 OPTIMOD-AM 1- · 1
A
A/D converter
circuit description 5- · 8
specification 6- · 2
Abbreviations 6- · 11
AC Line Cord Standard 2- · 2
Advanced Modify 3- · 16
AES/EBU I/O 2- · 10
AGC
bass attack control 3- · 41
bass coupling control 3- · 39
bass delta threshold control 3- · 42
bass release control 3- · 41
bass threshold control 3- · 41
control list 3- · 37
defeating 3- · 37
drive control 3- · 38
external AGC setup 2- · 13
gate threshold control 3- · 38
idle gain control 3- · 41
master attack control 3- · 41
master delta threshold control 3- · 41
master release control 3- · 38
matrix 3- · 40
Maximum Delta Gain Reduction control 3- ·
40
meter 2- · 12, 2
ratio control 3- · 40
window release control 3- · 40
window size control 3- · 40
analog I/O 1- · 7
analog input
circuit description 6- · 8
ref level, I/O setup 2- · 24
analog landline 1- · 13
analog output
circuit description 6- · 9
compensating for 600 ohm load 2- · 28
analog output 2- · 9
antenna system 1- · 19
anti-aliased 3- · 44
archiving presets 3- · 64
artifacts
minimizing codec 3- · 9
asymmetry 1- · 16, 18
attack 3- · 41
attack time controls 3- · 52
audio
connections 2- · 8
output 2- · 10
output, connecting 2- · 9
Audio Precision 4- · 6
auditing performance 4- · 6
automation
add event 2- · 40
delete event 2- · 42
edit event 2- · 42
automation 2- · 39
automation 3- · 66
B
backing up presets 3- · 64
balance adjust 2- · 25
balanced
inputs 2- · 9
output, simulates transformer 2- · 9, 3
band coupling 3- · 51
base board
removing 4- · 3
replacing 4- · 5
Basic Modify 3- · 14
Bass CLip Mode 3- · 43
bass clip threshold 3- · 42
bass punch
and the bass clipper 3- · 42
bass threshold 3- · 41
battery
replacing 6- · 6
Beatles 3- · 41
bit depth of internal processing 6- · 1
block diagram 6- · 62

bounce 1- · 15
buttons
escape 2- · 12, 1
modify 2- · 12, 1
next 2- · 12, 1
previous 2- · 12, 1
RECALL 2- · 12, 1
setup 2- · 12, 1
soft buttons 2- · 12, 1
buzz 5- · 1
bypass
local 1- · 24
PC remote 1- · 25
remote interface 1- · 25
test mode 1- · 22
via GPI 2- · 46
C
cable
shielding 2- · 11
type recommended for analog I/O 2- · 8
chassis
getting inside 4 · 2
ground 2- · 11
circuit board locator drawing 6- · 29
circuit description
control 6- · 5
LCD display 6- · 6
user control interface 6- · 6
circuit description 6- · 4
Classical music 3- · 25
cleaning front panel 4- · 1
clipper
bass clip threshold control 3- · 42
clipper shape control 3- · 44
control list 3- · 42
final clip drive control 3- · 44
Clipping
Defined 3- · 3
clock
battery 6- · 6
setting 2- · 39
codec
processing for low bit rate 3- · 9
common-mode rejection 2- · 11
components
obtaining 6- · 13
Compression
Defined 3- · 3
compressor gate 3- · 39
Compressor look-ahead
and bass clipper mode 3- · 43
computer
connecting to 2- · 4
interface, specifications 6- · 3
troubleshooting connections 5- · 8
Windows 2000 5- · 9
Windows XP 5- · 11
computer interface
RS-232 2- · 8
serial 2- · 8
computer interface 1- · 8
connecting
through Win XP direct serial 2- · 64
connection to PC
troubleshooting 5- · 7
connectors
audio 2- · 8
input and output 2- · 8
contrast 2- · 12, 1
control knob 2- · 12, 1
controls
contrast 2- · 12, 1
description 3- · 1
corrosion 4- · 1
CPU board
replacing 4- · 5
CPU module
removing 4- · 3
crossfade
balancing loudness during 2- · 39
Crossover frequency 3- · 53
D
D/A converter
circuit description 6- · 9
specification 6- · 3
De-ess 3- · 51
De-esser 3- · 53
delay
low-delay monitoring 3- · 24, 10
delay 1- · 24
delta release control 3- · 53
digital I/O 1- · 7
digital input
circuit description 6- · 9
digital links 1- · 11
digital output
circuit description 6- · 10

display assembly
removing 4 · 2
display board
parts list 6- · 25
replacing 4 · 5
distortion
excessive 5- · 6
specification 6- · 1
testing 4- · 10
troubleshooting 5- · 2
dither 2- · 29
DJ Bass control 3- · 34
downward expander 3- · 50
DSP
block diagram 6- · 62
circuit description 6- · 10
DSP board
removing 3- · 4
replacing 4- · 5
dual microwave STLs 1- · 12
dull sound
troubleshooting 5- · 4
E
EAS
modulation low 5- · 5
test tones 1- · 24
easy setup 2- · 16
equalizer
bass shelf 3- · 28
control list 3- · 28
parametric 3- · 30
transmitter 1- · 17
escape button 2- · 12, 1
Ethernet 2- · 47, 54, 62
exit test
via GPI 2- · 46
F
factory presets
selecting 2- · 22
tv 3- · 22
Factory presets
Table of 3- · 24
factory presets 1- · 5
factory service 5- · 14
final clip drive 3- · 44
Firewall 2- · 54, 62
Firmware
updating 9400 2- · 81
five-band
attack time controls 3- · 52
band coupling controls 3- · 51
band on/off switch 3- · 52
band threshold control 3- · 49
delta release control 3- · 53
downward expander thresold control 3- · 50
HF clipper threshold 3- · 44
high frequency limiter control 3- · 52
limiter attack control 3- · 53
multiband drive control 3- · 46
multiband gate threshold control 3- · 49
multiband limit threshold control 3- · 50
multiband limiter drive control 3- · 49
mutiband release control 3- · 47
output mix controls 3- · 51
five-band 3- · 45
five-band structure
setup controls 3- · 58
frequency response
specification 6- · 1
testing 4- · 9
front panel 3- · 1
front panel description 2- · 12
Full Modify 3- · 16
fuse 2- · 7
G
gain reduction
meters 2- · 13, 2
Gain Reduction
Maximum Delta 3- · 53
gate
threshold control 3- · 49
gate 3- · 39
gate LED 2- · 13, 2
Gateway 2- · 54, 62
gateway address 2- · 48
getting inside the unit 4 · 2
GPI
programming 2- · 46
specifications 6- · 4
GPI interface
testing 4- · 11
ground
chassis 2- · 11
ground lift switch 2- · 3, 7
grounding

circuit 2- · 11
loss of 4- · 1
power 2- · 11
grounding 2- · 11
grouping 9400s 3- · 66
H
HD preset
importing 3- · 20
HDC codec
processing for 3- · 9
headphones
low delay monitoring 1- · 10
headphones 1- · 24
High Frequency Enhancer 3- · 35
high frequency limiter
threshold 3- · 44
high frequency limiter 3- · 52
highpass filter
setting 2- · 28
highpass filter 1- · 18
hum 5- · 1
I
I/O
AES/EBU 2- · 10
connections 2- · 3
I/O board
replacing 4- · 5
IC opamps
troubleshooting 5- · 13
idle gain 3- · 41
importing HD preset 3- · 20
input
analog, specifications 6- · 2
digital, specifications 6- · 3
meters 2- · 12, 2
input level
line-up 1- · 21
maximum 2- · 9
input meters 1- · 22
input select
via GPI 2- · 46
input selector
I/O setup 2- · 23
input/output board
removing 4- · 3
inspection of package contents 2- · 1
installation procedure 2- · 1
Instrumental format 3- · 26
Internet
cannot access 5- · 8
IP address 2- · 48
IP port 2- · 48
J
J.17
and 9400 digital I/O 1- · 7
and NICAM 1- · 12
deemphasis applied to digital audio input 6-
· 3
defined 1- · 7
preemphasis applied to digital audio output
6- · 3
Jazz format 3- · 26
L
LEDs
gate 2- · 13, 2
level
metering 1- · 21
setup 2- · 20
transmission 1- · 21
limiter
attack 3- · 53
Limiting
Defined 3- · 3
line voltage 2- · 2
line-up tones
system will not pass at 100% modulation 5- ·
5
line-up tones 1- · 22
LLHard mode 3- · 43
location 1- · 8
location of 9400
optimum · 10
lock
driven equipment cannot lock to 9400 output
5- · 5
lockout
immediate 2- · 44
programming local 2- · 44
unlocking front panel 2- · 45
Lookahead
Multiband Control 3- · 53
Look-ahead limiting

Defined 3- · 3
lossy data reduction
in studio 1- · 19
NICAM 1- · 12
used in STLs · 11
loudness
balancing AM and HD channel 2- · 39
insufficient 5- · 6
insufficient due to poor peak control 5- · 1
loudness/distortion tradeoff 3- · 44
lowpass filter
setting 2- · 26
lowpass filter 1- · 18
L–R will not null 5- · 5
M
MAC address 5- · 8
main board
reattaching 4 · 5
master delta threshold 3- · 41
matrix, AGC 3- · 40
measuring performance 4- · 6
meter
circuit description 6- · 7
gain reduction 3- · 17
meters
AGC 2- · 12, 2
circuit description 6- · 6
gain reduction 2- · 13, 2
input 2- · 12, 2
studio 1- · 20
Microsoft
WMA codec 3- · 10
modem
preparing for connection 2- · 69
recommended baud rate 2- · 70
setting up 2- · 49
specification for 2- · 52
Windows 2000 configuration 2- · 69
Windows XP configuration 2- · 75
modify button 2- · 12, 1
modulation control
troubleshooting poor 5- · 1
modulation monitor
accuracy of 3- · 12
monitor
low-delay 3- · 24, 10
monitor mute
via GPI 2- · 47
monitor rolloff filter · 11
Monitor Rolloff Filter 1- · 23
monitor rolloff filter 2- · 5
multiband drive 3- · 46
multiband limit threshold 3- · 50
multiband llimiter drive 3- · 49
N
NAB Broadcast and Audio System Test CD
4- · 6
network
timeserver 2- · 55
networking 2- · 47
News format 3- · 27
NEXT button 2- · 12, 1
NICAM 1- · 12
noise
troubleshooting 5- · 3
NRSC standard 1- · 26
null modem cable
communicating through 2- · 59
null modem cable 2- · 52
O
output
analog output level trim adjustment 4- · 9
analog, connecting 2- · 9
analog, specifications 6- · 2
compensating for 600 ohm load 2- · 28
digital, setting dither 2- · 29
digital, setting sample rate 2- · 29
digital, setting sync 2- · 29
digital, setting word length · 29
digital, specifications 6- · 3
output level
I/O setup 2- · 28, 30
quick setup 2- · 21
output mix controls 3- · 51
overshoot
in transmitter 1- · 14
overshoot
excessive 5- · 1
Overshoot Compensation Drive 3- · 45
P
parts
obtaining 6- · 13

parts list
base board 6- · 14
CPU module 6- · 15
display board 6- · 25
DSP board 6- · 23
I/O board 6- · 18, 23
power supply 6- · 17
RS-232 board 6- · 17
parts list 6- · 13
passcode
and dial-up networking 2- · 45
creating 2- · 43
deleting 2- · 44
editing 2- · 43
programming 2- · 42
recovering from lost 2- · 45
PC
Orban installer program 2- · 53
PC board locator diagram 6- · 29
PC control
security 1- · 25
PC hardware requirements 2- · 52
PC Remote
aliases 3- · 67
moving alias folders 3- · 68
multiple coexisting versions 3- · 67
upgrading versions 3- · 67
PC Remote Software 3- · 61
peak control criteria 1- · 8
performance
measuring 4- · 6
phase-linear
system group delay spec · 9
Port
Terminal 2- · 50
port, IP 2- · 48
Ports 2- · 54, 62
positive peak threshold 1- · 18
positive peaks
cannot achieve desired 5- · 2
positive peaks 1- · 16
power
cord 2- · 2, 7
power 2- · 2
power supply
circuit description 6- · 11
parts list 6- · 17
testing 4- · 8
transmitter 1- · 15
power supply board
reattaching 4 · 4
removing 4 · 4
pre-emphasis
quick setup 2- · 18, 26
preset
restoring archived 3- · 65
presets
backup 3- · 64
customizing 3- · 14
factory 1- · 5
factory programming 3- · 18
saving user 3- · 6, 17
sharing between 9400s 3- · 66, 69
user presets 1- · 6
Presets
Gregg 3- · 25
Impact 3- · 26
Instrumental 3- · 26
Jazz 3- · 26
Loud 3- · 26
News-Talk 3- · 27
Rock 3- · 27
Sports 3- · 27
Table of factory 3- · 24
Urban 3- · 28
PREVIOUS button 2- · 12, 1
processing
block diagram 6- · 62
Proof of Performance 1- · 3
Proof of Performance 3- · 22, 54
PuTTY 2- · 50
Q
quick setup 2- · 16
R
rack-mounting unit 2- · 3
radio
reference for processor adjustment 3- · 11
ratio
AGC 3- · 40
rear panel 2- · 7
RECALL button 2- · 12, 1
registration card 2- · 1
release
fast 3- · 48
medium-fast 3- · 48
medium-slow 3- · 48
slow 3- · 47
remote