Orban OPTIMOD-FM 8600 User manual

Operating Manual
OPTIMOD-FM
8600
Digital Audio Processor
Version 4.1 Software

IMPORTANT NOTE: Refer to the unit’s rear panel for your Model Number.
Model Number:
Description:
8600
8600J
8600X
8600XJ
OPTIMOD 8600, Stereo Encoder, Digital I/O, Protec-
tion Structure, Two-Band Structure, Multi-Band
Structure, HD Radio™ / Digital Radio / Netcast Pro-
cessing,115V (for 100-130V operation) or 230V (for
200-250V operation), switchable to 50µs or 75µs.
8600J and 8600FMJ are for 90-117V operation.
8600X has a blank front panel and must be con-
trolled via 8600 PC Remote software.
8600FM
8600FMJ
As above, except HD Radio™ / Digital Radio /
Netcast Processing omitted. Upgradeable to 8600.
8600FMJ for 90-117V operation
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CAUTION
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RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
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.
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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.
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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) di-
rective 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 recy-
cled 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.
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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 Abschaltverhaltens 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-FM and OPTIMOD-TV 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 +1 856.719.9900.

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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.
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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.)
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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-FM. 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.
All firmware and software © Orban.
Orban and Optimod are registered trademarks.
All trademarks are property of their respective companies.
This manual was published September 2016.
© Copyright Orban. This document may be freely printed and distributed by Orban’s customers, but its text may not be
incorporated into derivative works.
Orban Labs Inc., 7209 Browning Road, Pennsauken NJ 08110 USA
Phone: [phone]; E-Mail: cust[email protected]; Site: www.orban.com

Operating Manual
OPTIMOD-FM
8600
Digital Audio Processor
Version 4.1 Software

Table of Contents
Index.......................................................................................................................0-11
Section 1 Introduction
......................................................................................................................................... 1-1
ABOUT THIS MANUAL....................................................................................................... 1-1
THE OPTIMOD-FM 8600 DIGITAL AUDIO PROCESSOR .......................................................1-1
User-Friendly Interface............................................................................................ 1-2
Absolute Control of Peak Modulation...................................................................1-2
Flexible Configuration ............................................................................................1-4
Adaptability through Multiple Audio Processing Structures ...............................1-5
Controllable .............................................................................................................1-6
8600MPX Features...................................................................................................1-8
PRESETS IN OPTIMOD-FM...............................................................................................1-8
Factory Presets ......................................................................................................... 1-8
User Presets..............................................................................................................1-8
INPUT/OUTPUT CONFIGURATION.........................................................................................1-9
Digital AES3 Left/right Input/outputs ....................................................................1-9
Analog Left/right Input/output ............................................................................1-10
Stereo Baseband Composite Output....................................................................1-10
Digital Composite Outputs ............................................................................................ 1-10
Subcarriers.............................................................................................................. 1-11
Digitized Subcarrier Inputs ............................................................................................ 1-11
Wordclock/10 MHz Sync Reference Input............................................................1-11
Remote Control Interface .....................................................................................1-12
Computer Interface ...............................................................................................1-12
RS-232 Serial Port (Serial 1)............................................................................................ 1-12
RS-232 Serial Port (Serial 2)............................................................................................ 1-12
100 Mbps Ethernet Port ................................................................................................. 1-12
LOCATION OF OPTIMOD-FM.........................................................................................1-13
Optimal Control of Peak Modulation Levels .......................................................1-13
Best Location for OPTIMOD-FM ...........................................................................1-14
If the transmitter is not accessible:................................................................................ 1-14
If the transmitter is accessible: ...................................................................................... 1-14
STUDIO-TRANSMITTER LINK.............................................................................................1-16
Transmission from Studio to Transmitter.............................................................1-16
Digital Links .................................................................................................................... 1-16
Composite Baseband Microwave STLs (Analog and Digital)........................................ 1-18
Dual Microwave STLs...................................................................................................... 1-18
Analog Landline (PTT / Post Office Line)....................................................................... 1-19
Using the Orban 8100AST (or 8100A/ST) External AGC with the 8600..............1-19
STL and Exciter Overshoot ....................................................................................1-20
USING LOSSY DATA REDUCTION IN THE STUDIO .................................................................1-20
ABOUT TRANSMISSION LEVELS AND METERING ..................................................................1-21
Meters ....................................................................................................................1-21
Studio Line-up Levels and Headroom ..................................................................1-21
Figure 1-2: Absolute Peak Level, VU and PPM Indications........................................... 1-22
Transmission Levels................................................................................................ 1-22
LINE-UP FACILITIES .........................................................................................................1-23
Metering of Levels and Subjective Loudness.......................................................1-23

Figure 1-3: VU Meter Indication Compared to Peak Level vs. Time .............................1-23
Left/right Output Level................................................................................................... 1-23
Composite Output Level.................................................................................................1-24
BS.1770 Loudness Level ..................................................................................................1-24
Figure 1-4: BS.1770 Loudness Meter Block Diagram (from ITU-R document)..............1-24
Built-in Calibrated Line-up Tones ..................................................................................1-25
Built-in Calibrated Bypass Test Mode ............................................................................1-26
MONITORING ON LOUDSPEAKERS AND HEADPHONES .........................................................1-26
Low-Delay Monitoring....................................................................................................1-28
EAS TEST......................................................................................................................1-29
PC CONTROL AND SECURITY PASSCODE ............................................................................1-30
WARRANTY,USER FEEDBACK ..........................................................................................1-30
User Feedback........................................................................................................1-30
LIMITED WARRANTY .............................................................................................1-30
INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY ...............................................................................1-31
Section 2 Installation
.........................................................................................................................................2-1
INSTALLING THE 8600.......................................................................................................2-1
Figure 2-1: AC Line Cord Wire Standard).........................................................................2-2
Figure 2-2: Wiring the 25-pin Remote Interface Connector...........................................2-4
8600REAR PANEL ...........................................................................................................2-5
AUDIO INPUT AND OUTPUT CONNECTIONS ..........................................................................2-6
Cable.........................................................................................................................2-6
Connectors ...............................................................................................................2-6
Analog Audio Input.................................................................................................2-6
Analog Audio Output .............................................................................................2-7
AES3 Digital Input and Output...............................................................................2-7
Connecting a Ratings Encoder................................................................................2-8
COMPOSITE OUTPUT AND SUBCARRIER INPUTS.....................................................................2-9
Figure 2-3: Separation vs. load capacitance ..................................................................2-10
Digital Composite Outputs.............................................................................................2-11
Digitized Subcarrier Inputs.............................................................................................2-11
Wordclock/10 MHz Sync Reference Input......................................................................2-11
GROUNDING ..................................................................................................................2-12
Power Ground........................................................................................................2-12
Circuit Ground .......................................................................................................2-12
8600 FRONT PANEL .......................................................................................................2-13
EXTERNAL AGC INSTALLATION (OPTIONAL) .......................................................................2-15
If you are using an Orban 8200ST external AGC:................................................2-16
Figure 2-4: 8200ST Jumper Settings (*Factory Configuration) .....................................2-16
QUICK SETUP.................................................................................................................2-18
ANALOG AND DIGITAL I/O SETUP.....................................................................................2-27
USING CLOCK-BASED AUTOMATION .................................................................................2-42
SECURITY AND PASSCODE PROGRAMMING.........................................................................2-44
To Unlock the Front Panel.....................................................................................2-46
8600 User Interface Behavior during Lockout...............................................................2-46
Default ADMIN Passcode................................................................................................2-47
Security and Orban’s PC Remote Application......................................................2-47
Passcodes and Software Updates .........................................................................2-48
If you have forgotten your “All Screens” passcode… ........................................2-48
ADMINISTERING THE 8600 THROUGH ITS SERIAL PORTS OR ETHERNET ..................................2-48

Connecting via Serial Port #2 Using a Terminal Program on a PC .....................2-49
Administrative Operations Available via Serial Port #2 ............................................... 2-50
Connecting to the 8600’s Ethernet Port or Serial Port #1 via a Terminal Program
on a PC ................................................................................................................... 2-57
Direct Control Using PuTTY ........................................................................................... 2-58
Automated Control Using PuTTY/Plink......................................................................... 2-59
Automated Control Using Netcat.................................................................................. 2-60
REMOTE CONTROL INTERFACE PROGRAMMING ..................................................................2-60
TALLY OUTPUT PROGRAMMING ....................................................................................... 2-62
NETWORKING AND REMOTE CONTROL..............................................................................2-63
INSTALLING 8600 PC REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE ..........................................................2-66
Installing the Necessary Windows Services..........................................................2-66
Check Hardware Requirements............................................................................2-67
Running the Orban Installer Program .................................................................2-67
Setting Up Ethernet, LAN, and VPN Connections ...............................................2-68
Conclusion.............................................................................................................. 2-69
SYNCHRONIZING OPTIMOD TO A NETWORK TIME SERVER ...................................................2-69
Updating your 8600’s Software............................................................................2-72
APPENDIX:SETTING UP SERIAL COMMUNICATIONS .............................................................2-75
Preparing for Communication through a Null Modem Cable ...........................2-75
Connecting Using Windows 2000 Direct Serial Connection:..............................2-75
Connecting Using Windows XP Direct Serial Connection...................................2-81
Connecting Using Windows 7 Direct Serial Connection:....................................2-85
Preparing for Communication through Modems ...............................................2-95
Connecting Using Windows 2000 Modem Connection ......................................2-95
Connecting using Windows XP Modem Connection ........................................2-100
SNMP SUPPORT ..........................................................................................................2-106
SNMP Network Setup................................................................................................... 2-106
SNMP Mib file............................................................................................................... 2-107
SNMP Default Settings ................................................................................................. 2-107
SNMP Features.............................................................................................................. 2-107
RDS/RBDS GENERATOR ...............................................................................................2-110
Using System I/O........................................................................................................... 2-110
Table 2-1: System I/O RDS controls and defaults ........................................................ 2-111
Using Processing Presets .............................................................................................. 2-112
Using the Terminal Server............................................................................................ 2-113
Using Telnet to Control the Terminal Server .............................................................. 2-113
Security ......................................................................................................................... 2-115
RDS Terminal Commands............................................................................................. 2-115
Table 2-2: Preset/Terminal RDS controls and defaults................................................ 2-117
Alternative Frequency Channel Numbers ................................................................... 2-118
Table 2-3: Alternative Frequency Channel Numbers:................................................. 2-119
Program Type (PTY)...................................................................................................... 2-119
Table 2-4: Program Type (PTY) .................................................................................... 2-119
SCA/Subcarrier Phase Relationship.............................................................................. 2-119
Figure 2-5: Pilot/SCA Phasing Scope Trace .................................................................. 2-120
References .................................................................................................................... 2-120
Section 3 Operation
......................................................................................................................................... 3-1
8600 FRONT PANEL .........................................................................................................3-1

INTRODUCTION TO PROCESSING..........................................................................................3-3
Some Audio Processing Concepts...........................................................................3-3
Distortion in Processing...........................................................................................3-4
Loudness and Distortion .........................................................................................3-4
OPTIMOD-FM—from Bach to Rock ........................................................................3-5
Fundamental Requirements: High-Quality Source Material and Accurate
Monitoring...............................................................................................................3-6
ABOUT THE 8600’S SIGNAL PROCESSING FEATURES ..............................................................3-7
Dual-Mono Architecture .........................................................................................3-7
Signal Flow...............................................................................................................3-7
“Multipath Mitigator” Left/Right Phase Skew Correction .............................................3-8
ITU-R 412 Compliance for Analog FM Broadcasts...............................................3-13
Two-Band Purist Processing ..................................................................................3-14
Digital Radio Processing........................................................................................3-14
BS.1770 Compliance for Digital Radio .................................................................3-15
Input/Output Delay ...............................................................................................3-15
CUSTOMIZING THE 8600’S SOUND ...................................................................................3-16
Basic Modify...........................................................................................................3-16
Intermediate Modify .............................................................................................3-17
Advanced Modify ..................................................................................................3-17
Gain Reduction Metering......................................................................................3-18
To Create or Save a User Preset ............................................................................3-18
To Delete a User Preset .........................................................................................3-19
ABOUT THE PROCESSING STRUCTURES...............................................................................3-19
FACTORY PROGRAMMING PRESETS ...................................................................................3-21
Table 3-1: Factory Programming Presets .......................................................................3-22
EQUALIZER CONTROLS ....................................................................................................3-30
Table 3-2: Equalization Controlsct .................................................................................3-31
Table 3-3: Stereo Enhancer Controls..............................................................................3-35
STEREO ENHANCER CONTROLS.........................................................................................3-35
AGC CONTROLS ............................................................................................................3-36
Table 3-4: AGC Controlsa................................................................................................3-37
Advanced AGC Controls........................................................................................3-39
PEAK LIMITER CONTROLS ................................................................................................3-42
Table 3-5: Peak Limiter Controls Common to 8500-Style and MX Presets...................3-42
Peak Limiter Controls Common to 8500-style and MX Presets ..........................3-42
Figure 3-1: 0-100 kHz Baseband Spectrum (Loud-Hot preset)...................................... 3-43
Figure 3-2: 19 kHz Pilot Notch Filter Spectrum (Loud-Hot preset; detail)....................3-43
Table 3-6: 8500-Style Peak Limiter Controls ..................................................................3-46
8500-Style Peak Limiter Controls..........................................................................3-47
Figure 3-3: Bass Clipper Input/Output Transfer Curves as Bass Clip Shape Control is
Varied from 0.0 (Hard) to 10.0 (Soft).............................................................................3-48
Advanced 8500-Style Peak Limiter Controls ........................................................3-49
8600 MX Technology Peak Limiter Controls ........................................................3-49
Table 3-7: MX Technology Peak Limiter Controls ......................................................... 3-50
THE TWO-BAND STRUCTURE ...........................................................................................3-52
Setting Up the Two-Band Structure for Classical Music......................................3-52
Customizing the Settings ......................................................................................3-53
The Two-Band Structure’s Full Setup Controls.....................................................3-54
Table 3-8: Two-Band Controls ........................................................................................3-54
Advanced Two-Band Controls...............................................................................3-57
THE FIVE-BAND STRUCTURE ............................................................................................3-58
Putting the Five-Band Structure on the Air.........................................................3-59

Customizing the Settings ......................................................................................3-59
The Five-Band Structure’s Full Setup Controls.....................................................3-59
Table 3-9: Multiband Controls....................................................................................... 3-60
Table 3-10: MB Attack / Release Controls ..................................................................... 3-63
Advanced Multiband and Band Mix Controls .....................................................3-66
Table 3-11: MB Band Mix Controls ................................................................................ 3-67
To Override the Speech/Music Detector........................................................................ 3-70
ABOUT THE 8600’S HD /DIGITAL RADIO PROCESSING........................................................3-71
Delay Difference between HD and FM Outputs .................................................3-73
HD I/O Setup Controls ...........................................................................................3-74
Input/Output > HD Digital Radio screen: ...................................................................... 3-74
Table 3-12: HD I/O Setup Controls................................................................................. 3-74
Digital Output ................................................................................................................ 3-76
Unique HD Audio Controls ...................................................................................3-78
Table 3-13: Unique HD Audio Controls (found in HD Limiting page) ......................... 3-78
ITU-R MULTIPLEX POWER CONTROLLER ...........................................................................3-80
Figure 3-4: Multiplex power over 15 minute observation interval with Multiplex power
controller active, measured at the Optimod’s composite output ............................... 3-81
MPX Power Meter .......................................................................................................... 3-81
Audio Processing and the Multiplex Power Threshold Control................................... 3-83
About the Multiplex Power Controller’s Time Constants ............................................ 3-83
Table 3-14: Test Modes .................................................................................................. 3-84
TEST MODES .................................................................................................................3-84
GETTING THE BASS SOUND YOU WANT ............................................................................3-85
Bass Punch in the MX Presets ........................................................................................ 3-86
Summary ......................................................................................................................... 3-87
USING THE 8600 PC REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE ...........................................................3-87
To set up a new connection:.................................................................................3-88
To initiate communication:...................................................................................3-88
To modify a control setting: .................................................................................3-89
To recall a preset:...................................................................................................3-89
To save a user preset you have created: ..............................................................3-90
To back up User Presets, system files, and automation files onto your computer’s
hard drive:.............................................................................................................. 3-90
Note to Users Familiar with Older Version of PC Remote............................................ 3-91
To restore archived presets, system files, and automation files:........................3-92
To share an archived User Preset between 8600s:........................................................ 3-93
To modify INPUT/OUTPUT and SYSTEM SETUP: ...........................................................3-93
To modify AUTOMATION: .........................................................................................3-93
To group multiple 8600s: ...................................................................................... 3-94
Operation Using the Keyboard ............................................................................3-94
To Quit the Program..............................................................................................3-94
About Aliases created by Optimod 8600 PC Remote Software .........................3-94
Multiple Installations of Optimod 8600 PC Remote ...........................................3-95
White Paper: Measuring the Improvements in Optimod-FM 8600’s FM Peak
Limiting Technology..............................................................................................3-97
Figure 3-5 Madonna, “Get Together” remix; third-octave difference ....................... 3-97
Introduction.................................................................................................................... 3-97
Figure 3-6 U2, “Within You Without You”................................................................... 3-98
Measurements ................................................................................................................ 3-98
Figure 3-7 Kelly Clarkson, “Because of You” opening................................................ 3-99
Figure 3-8 Level 42, “Starchild”.................................................................................. 3-100

Figure 3-9 Simple Minds, “Alive and Kicking” ........................................................... 3-101
Figure 3-10 Stanford Research Systems Model SR785 Dynamic Signal Analyzer......3-102
Conclusions....................................................................................................................3-102
Section 4 Maintenance
.........................................................................................................................................4-1
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................4-1
SUBASSEMBLY REMOVAL AND REINSTALLATION....................................................................4-1
FIELD AUDIT OF PERFORMANCE .........................................................................................4-7
Table 4-1: Decoder Chart for Power Supervisor ............................................................4-10
Table 4-2: Layout Diagram of J7, with expected voltages on each pin .......................4-10
Table 4-3: Typical Power Supply Voltages and AC Ripple.............................................4-10
Section 5 Troubleshooting
.........................................................................................................................................5-1
PROBLEMS AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS...............................................................................5-1
RFI, Hum, Clicks, or Buzzes ...............................................................................................5-1
Unexpectedly Quiet On-Air Levels ...................................................................................5-1
Poor Peak Modulation Control / Low On-Air Loudness..................................................5-1
Audible Distortion On-Air ................................................................................................5-2
Audible Noise on Air.........................................................................................................5-3
Whistle on Air, Perhaps Only in Stereo Reception..........................................................5-4
Interference from stereo into SCA...................................................................................5-4
Figure 5-1: Typical 8700 baseband spectrum with heavy processing, 0-100 kHz. .........5-4
Shrill, Harsh Sound............................................................................................................5-5
Dull Sound.........................................................................................................................5-5
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 8600’s Digital Output Will Not Lock...................................................5-6
19 kHz Frequency Out-of-Tolerance ................................................................................5-6
L–R (Stereo Difference Channel) Will Not Null With Monophonic Input ......................5-6
Talent Complains About Delay in Their Headphones.....................................................5-6
HD Output Sounds Too Bright .........................................................................................5-6
Harsh Sibilance (“Ess” Sounds) in the HD Channel .........................................................5-6
HD and FM Levels Do Not Match When the Receiver Crossfades ..................................5-6
Digital Radio Loudness Cannot be Set Using the Digital Output 100% Peak Level
Control...............................................................................................................................5-7
Loudness Drops Momentarily During HD Radio Analog/Digital Crossfades..................5-7
HD Frequency Response is Limited to 15 kHz..................................................................5-7
You Cannot Set Any Output to Emit an HD Signal.........................................................5-7
The Left and Right Audio Channels are Reversed at the Digital 1 or Digital 2 Outputs
only....................................................................................................................................5-7
Loudness is unexpectedly low from the analog FM processing chain ...........................5-7
Digitized SCA inputs do not appear at the analog composite outputs and vice-versa
(MPX hardware only)........................................................................................................5-8
General Dissatisfaction with Subjective Sound Quality ..................................................5-8
BS.1770 Safety Limiter produces too much gain reduction............................................5-8
Security Passcode Lost (When Unit is Locked Out)..........................................................5-8

Connection Issues between the 8600 and a PC, Modem, or Network.................5-8
Troubleshooting Connections.................................................................................5-9
You Cannot Access the Internet After Making a Direct or Modem Connection to
the 8600: ................................................................................................................ 5-10
OS-SPECIFIC TROUBLESHOOTING ADVICE ..........................................................................5-10
Troubleshooting Windows XP Direct Connect: ...................................................5-10
Troubleshooting Windows XP Modem Connect: ................................................5-11
TROUBLESHOOTING IC OPAMPS .......................................................................................5-12
TECHNICAL SUPPORT ......................................................................................................5-12
FACTORY SERVICE...........................................................................................................5-13
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................................................5-13
Section 6 Technical Data
......................................................................................................................................... 6-1
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................ 6-1
Performance.............................................................................................................6-1
Installation ...............................................................................................................6-2
CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................................6-6
Overview ..................................................................................................................6-7
Control Circuits ........................................................................................................6-7
User Control Interface and LCD Display Circuits ...................................................6-8
Input Circuits............................................................................................................6-9
Output Circuits.......................................................................................................6-10
DSP Circuit.............................................................................................................. 6-12
AES Output L/R Channel Reversal Bug .......................................................................... 6-13
Power Supply ......................................................................................................... 6-14
ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................................6-14
PARTS LIST ....................................................................................................................6-16
Obtaining Spare Parts ...........................................................................................6-16
Base Board ............................................................................................................. 6-17
CPU board ..............................................................................................................6-18
RS-232 Board.......................................................................................................... 6-20
Power Supply ......................................................................................................... 6-21
Input/Output (I/O) Board ......................................................................................6-22
DSP Board............................................................................................................... 6-26
Interface Board...................................................................................................... 6-28
Headphone Board ................................................................................................. 6-29
Encoder Board ....................................................................................................... 6-30
LCD Carrier Board.................................................................................................. 6-30
Digital MPX (Retrofit for pre-MPX 8600s) ...........................................................6-31
Digital MPX (for 8600MPX Units) .........................................................................6-32
SCHEMATICS AND PARTS LOCATOR DRAWINGS...................................................................6-34
Function Description Drawing Page
Chassis
Circuit Board Locator and basic
interconnections
Top view
(not to scale)
6-37
Base Board
Glue logic; supports CPU board
Parts Locator
6-38

Function Description Drawing Page
and RS-232 daughterboard.
Contains:
Drawing
System Connections
Schematic 1 of 4
6-39
CPU board interface
Schematic 2 of 4
6-40
Power Supply Monitor
Schematic 3 of 4
6-41
CPLD, General Purpose Interface,
and Remotes
Schematic 4 of 4
6-42
CPU board
Control microprocessor. Services
front panel, serial port, Ethernet,
DSP board, and control board. Re-
sides on base board.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-43
Ethernet
Schematic 1 of 5
6-44
General Purpose Bus
Schematic 2 of 5
6-45
Memory
Schematic 3 of 5
6-46
Miscellaneous Functions
Schematic 4 of 5
6-47
Power and Ground Distribution
Schematic 5 of 5
6-48
RS-232 Board
Supports Serial Port
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-49
Schematic 1 of 1
6-50
Power Supply
±
15V analog supply;
±5V analog
supply; +5V digital supply
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-51
Schematic 1 of 1
6-52
I/O Board
Analog Input/output
AES3 Input/output
Composite Output
SCA Input.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-53
L and R Analog Inputs
Schematic 1 of 6
6-54
L and R Analog Outputs
Schematic 2 of 6
6-55
Composite / SCA
Schematic 3 of 6
6-56
Digital I/O Schematic 4 of 6 6-57
Control and Miscellaneous
Schematic 5 of 6
6-58
Interface and Power Distribution
Schematic 6 of 6
6-59
DSP Board
DSP Chips; Local +3.3V regulator.
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-60
Interconnects
Schematic 1 of 9
6-61
Enhanced Serial Audio
Interface (ESAI)
Schematic 2 of 9
6-62
Control Interface
Schematic 3 of 9
6-63
External Memory Controller
Interface 1
Schematic 4 of 9
6-64
Power and Ground
Schematic 5 of 9
6-65
86xx 8-Bit Control Interface
Schematic 6 of 9
6-66
Clock Generation and CPLD
Schematic 7 of 9
6-67
Power Distribution
Schematic 8 of 9
6-68
External Memory Controller
Interface 2
Schematic 9 of 9
6-69
Front-Panel
LCD Carrier
Parts Locator
6-70

Function Description Drawing Page
Boards
Drawing
LCD Carrier
Schematic 1 of 3
6-71
Headphone and Encoder Board
Parts Locator
Drawings
6-72
Headphone Board
Schematic 2 of 3
6-73
Encoder Board
Schematic 3 of 3
6-74
Front-Panel
Interface
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-75
Board
Schematic 1 of 2
6-76
Schematic 2 of 2
6-77
Digital MPX
Board
Retrofit board for pre-MPX 8600s
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-78
For 8600MPX
Contains:
Parts Locator
Drawing
6-79
Interconnects
Schematic 1 of 3
6-80
Digital Composite and Sync Schematic 2 of 3 6-81
Digital SCA Inputs and dsPIC
Schematic 3 of 3
6-82
DSP Block
Diagram
8500-Style Presets
Drawing 1 of 2
6-83
8600-Style Presets
Drawing 2 0f 2
6-84

Index
1
19 K Ref control 2- · 11
2
2B Drive 3- · 54
2B Release 3- · 55
8
8100A/ST 1- · 19
8100A1 1- · 19
8100AST 1- · 19
8100AXT2 1- · 19
8200ST 2- · 16
8400
importing presets from 3- · 92
8600 HD 3- · 71
8600 OPTIMOD-FM 1- · 1
8600MPX 1- · 8
A
A/D converter
Circuit description 5- · 10
Abbreviations
Table of 6- · 14
AC Line Cord Standard 2- · 2
Administrative Operations
via terminal program 2- · 50
Adobe pdf 1- · 1
Advanced Modify 3- · 17
AES/EBU I/O 2- · 7
AGC
controls 3- · 36
defeating 3- · 24
Defeating 3- · 37
external AGC setup 2- · 15
meter 2- · 14
meter 3- · 2
AGC 3- · 9
AGC Drive 3- · 37
AGC Matrix 3- · 40
AGC Release
Master 3- · 37
Analog
output 2- ·7
Analog auto-fallback 2- · 40, 41
Analog baseband outputs 1- · 10
Analog delay
remote control 2- · 61
analog fallback 2- · 32
Analog I/O 1- · 10
analog input
fallback 2- · 40
fallback to digital 2- · 40
Analog input
Circuit description 6- · 9
Analog input 2- · 6
Analog input clip level 2- · 27
Analog input ref level
I/O setup 2- · 30
Analog landline 1- · 19
Analog output
Circuit description 6- · 10
Analog output trim 4- · 10
API
adjusting delay time 2- · 54
delay on/off 2- · 54, 55
Archiving presets 3- · 90
Attack
2-Band Bass 2- · 57
2-Band Master · 57
AGC Bass 3- · 41
AGC Master 3- · 41
Multiband 3- · 66
Audio
Connections 2- · 6
Input 2- · 6
Output 2- · 7
automated control
via PuTTY/Plink 2- · 59
automation
capabilities 2- · 43
Automation
Clock-based 2- · 42
PC Remote 3- · 93
B
B4>B5 coupling 3- · 9

Backing up presets 3- · 90
backup
folder location 3- · 91
Balance adjust
I/O setup 2- · 32
balanced
output transformer 2- · 7
Balanced
inputs 2- · 6
Band Mix
Multiband 3- · 65
Band mix controls 3- · 66
Bandwidth
Setting HD 3- · 75
Base board
Reinstalling 4- · 6
removing 4- ·5
baseband spectrum 5- · 4
Baseband spectrum diagram 3- · 44
Basic Modify 3- · 16
Bass
equalizer 3- · 86
Getting sound you want 3- · 85
Bass CLip Mode 3- · 45, 49, 51
Bass Clip Threshold 3- · 47
Bass Coupling
2-Band 3- · 56
AGC 3- · 39
Bass Threshold 3- · 40
Battery
Replacing 6- · 8
Block diagram 6- · 83, 84
brightness
controlling excessive 3- · 72
controlling in HD 3- · 15
Brilliance control 3- · 34
BS.1770
analog radio 1- · 25
GR meter 2- · 15
BS.1770 1- · 24
BS.1770 Limiter
too much GR 5- · 8
BS.1770 Loudness Control Threshold 3- ·
78
BS.1770 loudness meter
limitations 2- · 42
BS.1770 safety limiter
and FInal Limit Drive 2- · 41
setup 2- · 32
BS.1770 Safety Limiter
control functionality 3- · 78
BS.1770 Safety Limiter 2- · 15
Button bar
FM > HD coupling 3- · 71
Buttons · 1
Enter 2- · 13
Escape 2- · 13
Escape 3- · 1
Buzz 5- · 1
bypass
PC remote 1- · 30
Bypass
Locally 1- · 29
Remote interface 1- · 29
test mode 1- · 26
Bypass mode
activate via GPI 2- · 61
C
cable
shielding 2- · 12
Cable 2- · 6
capacitance
separation vs. load 2- · 10
CD mastering
and processing 3- · 6
chassis
ground 2- · 12
Chassis
getting inside 4 · 1
Chassis ground 2- · 12
circuit board locator drawing 6- · 37
Circuit description
Control 6- ·7
LCD display 6- · 8
user Control interface 6- · 8
Circuit description 6- · 6
Circuit ground 2- · 12
Classical music 3- · 24, 52
Cleaning front panel 4- · 1
Clip level
I/O setup 2- · 27
Clipper
Controls 3- · 42
Clipper, bass 3- · 10
Clipping
2-Band 3- · 57
Defined 3- · 4
Multiband 3- · 63
Clock
Battery 6- · 8

GPI control of 2- · 61
Setting 2- · 42
Setting via Internet 2- · 69
Clock-based automation 2- · 42
codec artifacts
minimizing 3- · 14
common-mode rejection 2- · 12
Components
Obtaining 6- · 16
composite
digital setup 2- · 38
Composite
Circuit description 6- · 11
isolation transformer 2- · 10
limiter 3- · 12
Composite baseband microwave STL 1- ·
18
composite isolation transformer 1- · 15,
13, 1
Composite level output 1- · 24
Composite Limit Drive 3- · 43
Composite limiter
Pilot tone protection 2- · 10
Composite metering 1- · 24
Composite output
I/O setup 2- · 37
Level adjustment range 2- · 9
Meter 2- · 14
Setting output impedance 2- · 9
Specifications 6- · 4
Termination 2- · 9
Composite output 2- · 9
Composite outputs 1- · 10
Compression
Defined 3- · 3
Compression Ratio
AGC 3- · 40
Compressor look-ahead
and bass clipper mode 3- · 46
computer
Windows XP 5- · 10
Computer
Connecting to 2- · 5
Troubleshooting connections 5- · 9
Computer interface
Ethernet card 2- · 5
Modem card 2- · 5
RS-232 2- · 5
serial 1 2- · 5
Computer interface 1- · 12
Connecting
through Win XP direct serial 2- · 81
Connection to PC
Troubleshooting 5- · 8
Connectors
Audio 2- ·6
Connectors 2- · 6
control
scripted 2- · 59
control coupling
FM and HD 3- · 78
Control coupling
FM > HD 3- · 71
Control knob 2- · 14
Control knob 3- · 1
Control setting
Modifying from PC Remote 3- · 89
controls
HD audio 3- · 78
Speech Detect 3- · 10
Corrosion 4- · 1
Coupling Control 3- · 65
Cover
Removing 4- · 2
CPU board
Reinstalling 4- · 6
removing 4- ·4
Crossfade 3- · 75
Crossover
2-Band 3- · 57
AGC 3- · 41
Band 1 / Band 2 3- · 69
D
D/A converter
Circuit description 6- · 10
de-emphasis
applying to output meter 2- · 37
De-Essing
in HD channel 3- · 80
Defaults
Resetting to 2- · 48
Defeating final clipper 2- · 39
delay
on/off from API 2- · 54, 55
Delay
Analog vs. HD 3- · 73
diversity on/off 3- · 74
diversity vernier 3- · 75
Input/Ouput 3- · 15
delay time

adjusting via API 2- · 54
diagnostic info
fetching via API 2- · 56
Dialnorm
re Loudness Level meter 1- · 25
digital composite
setup 2- · 38
digital encoder
setup 2- · 38
digital fallback 2- · 41
Digital I/O 1- · 9
digital input
fallback to analog 2- · 40
invalid or missing 2- · 32
Digital input
Circuit description 6- · 10
Digital links 1- · 16
Digital output
Circuit description 6- · 11
digital radio processing 3- · 14, 71
Display
Removing 4- · 4
Display Interface
Reinstalling 4- · 6
Removing 4- · 4
Distortion
Aliasing 3- · 13
Excessive 5- ·8
in processing 3- · 4
Testing 4- · 11
Troubleshooting 5- · 2
dither
setting 2- · 35
Dither control
HD 3- · 77
diversity delay
om/off from API 2- · 54, 55
Diversity delay
composite on/off 3- · 74
control via GPI 2- · 62
diversity delay 3- · 75
DJ Bass control 3- · 34
Drive control
Multiband 3- · 59
DSP
Block diagram 6- · 83, 84
Circuit description 6- · 12
DSP board
Reinstalling 4- · 6
Removing 4- · 2
Dual microwave STLs 1- · 18
Dull sound
troubleshooting 5- · 5
E
EAS
modulation Low 5- · 5
EAS test tones 1- · 29
Easy setup 2- · 18
EBU R 128 1 · 24
Enter button 2- · 13
Enter button 3- · 1
EQ Frequency control
HD 3- · 79
Equalizer
Bass Gain 3- · 31
Bass Shelf Hinge Frequency 3- · 31
Bass Slope 3- · 31
Controls 3-· 30
Parametric Frequency 3- · 32
Parametric Gain 3- · 32
Parametric Width 3- · 32
Equalizer 3- · 9
Escape button 2- · 13
Escape button 3- · 1
esses
excessive HD 5- · 6
Ethernet 2- · 68, 88
Ethernet card 2- · 5
Exciter overshoot 1- · 20
Expander
Multiband Downward 3- · 64
F
Factory defaults
Resetting to 2- · 48
Restoring via Terminal Program 2- · 50
Factory preset
Selecting 2- · 23
Factory presets
Table of 3- · 22
Factory presets 1- · 8
Factory service 5- · 13
Field audit of performance 4- · 7
Filter
Pilot Protection 3- · 44
Final Clip Drive 3- · 47
Final clipper
Defeating 2- · 39