For simplicity sake, if you're pulling a full 2A from the USB port,
it is safe to assume that you've got about 4A remaining
capacity for all the other output jacks, which is more than
sufficient for nearly all ENG bag configurations.
The input connector on the BDS box is a common TA4M
(miniature 4-pin male XLR) with the standard scheme of "pin-1
NEG, pin-4 POS". To improve reliability and reduce voltage
drop, the contacts are doubled 1-2 and 3-4 at the circuit board.
Therefore, if the user wires their own input cables, it is
recommended to connect pins 1-2 and 3-4. The power
indicator built into the BDS box switch can be used to confirm
proper polarity of the input cable (if it illuminates, the polarity is
correct).
Switched vs Unswitched Outlet
The indicated outlet can be either "switched" or "unswitched."
"Switched" means that the outlet turns off and on via the main
toggle switch. "Unswitched" means that the outlet is always on
when power is present. The factory default for that outlet is
"unswitched." This feature is often desired for the audio mixer.
For example, in this configuration, when only the mixer and
boom mic are needed, turning off the BDS box will turn
everything off (receivers, etc.) except for the mixer. This can
be a convenient way to turn off everything that is not needed,
extending the life of the battery. The status of the outlet can be
easily reversed to "switched" by sliding the nearby switch using
a toothpick or jeweler's screwdriver. When using a metal tool
to change the switch position, make sure the BDS is powered
off to eliminate the possibility of short-circuits.
Low Battery Indicator
The illuminated toggle switch is a bi-color type that indicates
when your power source (typically a battery) falls below a
certain voltage level. This threshold voltage is selectable via a
switch on the face of the BDSv4u.
When the battery voltage falls below the selected threshold,
the illuminated toggle will switch from Green to Red. Battery
voltage is influenced by the current draw of connected devices,
so some experimentation may be needed to find the correct
threshold for your setup.
Short Circuit and Overload Protection
The BDS box has auto-resetting protection against output short
circuits and loads in excess of 5A @ 12V (60W), with each
outlet capable of handling up to 3A. If the BDS fails to pass
power, it could be due to an overload or short circuit.
In the case of a short circuit of an individual output cable or
piece of gear, only that outlet's breaker will trip, protecting the
other connected gear from damage. If a piece of gear fails to
power up, that output cable should be checked for continuity
with a multimeter (shorted or open conductors), or replaced
entirely. The BDS box will also protect itself when connected to
loads of over 5A, and the on/off toggle switch will no longer be
illuminated. However, it is very rare for field audio bags (the
primary intended use for the BDS) to have current draws in
excess of 5A.
Reverse Polarity Protection
As a protective feature for devices being powered, in the event
that an input cable or battery adapter is miswired, the BDSv4u
will not pass reverse polarity voltage to its outputs. Unlike some
reverse polarity protection circuits, the BDS circuit does not
cause a voltage drop during normal operation.
Noise and Shared Power Systems
Thousands of satisfied field audio professionals are using the
BDS system to power their equipment. However, it is possible
to have unwanted audible noise induced into audio systems by
a common (shared) power source. To optimize your system, it
is recommended to use line level signals instead of mic level
signals whenever practical. Also, turn phantom voltage off of all
preamp inputs that are connected to non-microphone devices.
If noise is still heard, to determine the cause, unplug one device
at a time from the BDS box, noticing any change in noise
associated with the removal of each device. If the noise goes
away after unplugging a particular device, try powering that
device with a separate battery. If using a separate battery
causes the noise to go away, then the problem is a ground loop
associated with the combination of a common power source
and audio grounding schemes. Be aware that this noise will not
be removed with "LC" filters found in some distribution boxes.
To remove the noise, here are four options for interrupting the
ground loop: 1) Use a separate battery for the offending device.
2) Try different grounding/floating schemes with the audio
cables. 3) In devices that use a single 9V battery, use an
isolating 9V battery eliminator such as those made by
Lectrosonics. 4) Use a power isolator cable such as the
Remote Audio Juicer cable.
Mounting Clip
The BDSv4u comes with a stainless steel clip to aid in securing
the box to a bag or strap. NOTE: Keep the original clip screws.
Attaching the clip with screws longer than those originally
supplied can damage the BDS box and void the warranty.
Specifications
Dimensions: 3.977" x 1.329" x 1.165" (101 x 33.8 x 29.6 mm)
Weight: 4.8 oz
Input Voltage: 6 - 20V
Output Current: 3A Max per output, 5A global max (60W)
USB port: 2A @ 5V regulated (10W)
Power Switch: Recessed toggle, illum. Green when Power "ON"
Red when voltage falls below selectable threshold.
Limited Warranty
Remote Audio warrants the BDSv4u against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original retail
purchase. Remote Audio will repair or replace qualifying products at its discretion at no charge. Please visit our website for complete terms
Rev. 02/01/212
220 Great Circle Road, Suite 114, Nashville, TN 37228-1737
Phone: 615.256.3513 | Fax: 615.259.2699
www.remoteaud o.com
REMOTE AUDIO
Three voltages are available
for use with the most common
battery chemistries:
13V - for Lithium-Ion
11.5V - for Nickel-Metal Hydride*
11V - for Lead Acid ("Gel Cells")
(* - Default Factory Setting)
