RJM DA-14 User manual

SoundPals™
DA-14 User Guide
AES Distribution Amplifier

Printing History
SoundPals
™
DA-14 AES Distribution Amplifier
Rev. N/C
JANUARY 2015
Printed in U.S.A.
Part Number 08-2051-00
The information contained in this guide is subject to change without notice or obligation.
Copyrights and Trademarks
© 2015
Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of RJM & Associates.
Reproduction or reverse engineering of copyrighted software is prohibited.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.
Warranty Statement
RJM & Associates, LLC warrants that the equipment it manufactures is free from defects in workmanship and
materials and meets applicable published specifications. Equipment that has been operated within published ratings
and has not been subjected to abuse or modification, and which fails because of such defects, will be replaced or
repaired at the Company’s discretion if it is returned, freight prepaid, to RJM within three years of receipt.
This warranty supersedes all other Warranties, express or implied. RJM & Associates is not liable for any
consequential damages.
Company Address
RJM & Associates, LLC
175 Joerschke Drive
Suite A
Grass Valley, CA 95945
530-205-3437
[email protected]

Table of Contents
ii • Table of Contents DA-14 User Guide
Table of Contents ii
Introduction 1
What are SoundPals?.............................................................................................................. 1
Documentation Conventions.................................................................................................... 1
Signals and Values .................................................................................................................. 1
Warnings.................................................................................................................................. 1
Unpacking and Inspection .......................................................................................................2
Power Supply Note .................................................................................................................. 2
DA-14 3
About the DA-14 ...................................................................................................................... 3
DA-14 Installation .................................................................................................................... 5
Connecting Power ............................................................................................................. 5
Connecting Inputs ............................................................................................................. 5
Connecting Outputs........................................................................................................... 5
DA-14 Operation and Application ............................................................................................ 6
DA-14 Interconnection ............................................................................................................. 7
Basic Digital Distribution ................................................................................................... 7
Multiple Outputs ................................................................................................................ 8
DA-14 Internal Jumpers........................................................................................................... 9
DA-14 Troubleshooting............................................................................................................ 9
DA-14 Specifications ............................................................................................................. 10
Audio Specifications ........................................................................................................ 10
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions ............................................................... 11
Inside the Module ........................................................................................... 11
In This Section ....................................................................................................................... 11
Before You Begin...................................................................................................................11
Opening the Module .............................................................................................................. 11
Closing the Module ................................................................................................................ 12
External Power................................................................................................ 12
About Power Supplies ........................................................................................................... 12
CE Compliance ...................................................................................................................... 12
Portable Power Sources ........................................................................................................ 12
Power Supply Specifications ................................................................................................. 12
Power Supply Sources .......................................................................................................... 13

Introduction
DA-14 User Guide
Page
1
What are SoundPals?
Each RJM & Associates SoundPals module is essentially a digital audio building block that can
be used independently, or interconnected to perform more advanced mixing and audio
processing functions.
SoundPals can be used in both standalone and system configurations:
•In a “standalone” configuration, each SoundPals module is designed to perform a specific
audio processing function such as ADAT-to-Analog conversion. In this way, each module
functions as a perfect low-cost adjunct to larger mixing consoles (such as the Graham-
Patten D/ESAM series) — for single-purpose processing tasks.
•In a “system” configuration, SoundPals can be linked to form more comprehensive digital
audio tools. For field recording, studio applications, and workstation applications,
SoundPals can be used to seamlessly perform functions that would otherwise require
extensive peripheral gear. Best of all, SoundPals “systems” can be re-configured quickly
and easily — to suit your changing audio production requirements.
All SoundPals modules are extremely compact, rugged, and identical in size for ease of
installation, interconnection, and use. In addition, SoundPals support AES3id. This allows
longer, more robust AES signal distribution using standard coaxial cable. Error free distances of
1000 feet can be attained using inexpensive coaxial cables.
Documentation Conventions
The following documentation conventions are used in this guide:
•Buttons, knobs, connectors, and switches are indicated in bold-faced capital letters. For
example:
Adjust the left GAIN TRIM to …
•Primary sections are listed in bold text, with a line above:
Primary Section
•Secondary sections are listed in bold text, with no line:
Secondary Section
Signals and Values
Note the following important information regarding audio signal level:
•AES3 = Balanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
•AES3id = Unbalanced output with 2 channels of digital audio (left and right)
Warnings
Please observe the following important warnings:
•Heed all warnings on the unit and in the instructions.
•Do not use this product in or near water.
•Route power cords and other cables so that they are not likely to be damaged.
Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use only a
damp cloth.

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2
Unpacking and Inspection
When you receive your SoundPals modules, inspect the cartons for signs of damage. Contact
your dealer and the shipper immediately if you suspect any damage has occurred during
shipping. Check the contents of each box to be sure that all parts are included. If any items are
missing, contact your dealer immediately.
Power Supply Note
SoundPals are delivered with a power connector only. A separate power supply must be
obtained. RJM & Associates offers several power solutions for both domestic and international
customers. Refer to “External Power” for detailed power specifications for users who wish to
configure their own power source, rather than purchase one from RJM.

DA-14
DA-14 User Guide
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3
About the DA-14
The RJM & Associates SoundPals DA-14 is a one-input, four-output “data regenerator” for
distributing AES digital audio signals. Two versions of the DA-14 are available:
•Model A
The DA-14/A provides four balanced AES3 outputs on XLR connectors.
•Model B
The DA-14/B provides four unbalanced AES3id outputs on BNC connectors.
NOTE The printed legend on the rear panel indicates the DA-14 model.
Both models include one AES3 input (on an XLR connector) and one AES3ID input (on a BNC
connector). Note that only one input can be used at a time.
The DA-14 offers the following features:
•Choice of balanced AES outputs (XLR) or unbalanced AES3id outputs (BNC).
•Terminating or bridging inputs
•Accepts (and regenerates) any AES or AES3id digital input signal between 30 KHz and
50 KHz sampling frequency.
•Power and Status LEDs
•Optional rack mounting tray (1 RU)
•Compact size, rugged construction
The figure below illustrates the DA-14’s front panel:
DA-14 DA-14
2 4
AES IN
PWR
I/P ERR
31
1) AES Balanced Input — the AES IN XLR connector accepts a balanced AES input
signal.
2) AES Unbalanced Input — the AES IN BNC connector accepts an unbalanced AES
input signal.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
3) I/P ERR — this LED lights when no signal is applied to the input, or when the signal is not
valid. A non-valid signal exhibits errors such as format violations, bit errors, low level, or
incorrect frequency. When I/P ERR is lit, output is muted.
4) Power LED — the green LED lights when power is applied.

DA-14 User Guide
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4
The figure below illustrates the DA-14’s rear panel.
AES OUT 1 AES OUT 2 AES OUT 3 AES OUT 4
MODEL A
MADE IN THE USA
3 4 5 61
200mA
+6V
2
1) DA-14 Model — the printed legend indicates the model:
A (AES, balanced) or
B (AES3ID, unbalanced)
NOTE The Model A (with balanced XLRs) is shown above. The Model B provides
unbalanced BNC connectors.
2) Power Connector — accepts the power jack from the 6 VDC power supply. Refer to
“External Power” for more information regarding external power.
3) AES Output #1
4) AES Output #2
5) AES Output #3
6) AES Output #4

DA-14 User Guide
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5
DA-14 Installation
This section provides instructions for connecting power, digital inputs, and digital outputs.
Connecting Power
Plug a 6 VDC power supply into the appropriate voltage outlet for your specific country, and
connect the end of the cord into the DA-14 rear panel jack marked +6V. Secure the locking ring
finger tight. The green LED on the front panel lights when power is applied.
Connecting Inputs
Connect a digital input signal, between 30 KHz and 50 KHz sampling frequency, to one of the two
inputs marked AES IN on the front of the product. Both AES3 and AES3id inputs are provided.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
The inputs are normally terminated internally with 110 Ω (AES3) and 75 Ω (AES3id). When it is
necessary to loop an input signal to several SoundPals, the signal must be terminated only once,
and always at the last unit in the chain.
Refer to the “DA-14 Internal Jumpers” section for information on changing input termination.
NOTE
The I/P ERR LED lights until a valid AES input signal is applied.
Connecting Outputs
Take the digital audio output from one of the four connectors marked AES OUT, and route it to
the input of the desired destination device. Repeat the procedure for all digital outputs as
required. Each output is identical in content to the input signal.

DA-14 User Guide
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6
DA-14 Operation and Application
Because of the fundamental simplicity of the DA-14, there are no operating procedures apart from
applying an input signal, connecting outputs, and applying power. There are no level
adjustments, as the unit puts out a standard level. In addition, no reference is required as the
DA-14 locks to the AES input signal.
In addition to basic distribution, two additional DA-14 applications should be noted:
•S/PDIF to AES conversion
Because the DA-14 can operate in a range as low as 165mv, it can be used as an
S/PDIF to AES converter. By using an S/PDIF adapter on your S/PDIF source and
connecting it to the DA-14’s BNC input, you can achieve full level AES output (times
four), provided that the source output is above the 165mv threshold. Note that S/PDIF
adapters (BNC to RCA Phono) are readily available at consumer electronics stores.
•Multiple output capability
To configure two or more DA-14 units for multiple outputs (beyond the basic four),
remove the terminating jumpers, place a BNC “T” on the input connector, and bridge as
many DA-14s as required to produce the required number of outputs. In this
configuration, ensure that the last DA-14 in the chain is terminated — either internally or
externally with a 75 Ωterminator on the BNC “T” connector.
Refer to the following “DA-14 Interconnection” section for an illustration of this “multiple
output” configuration. Refer to the “DA-14 Internal Jumpers” section for information on
changing input termination.

DA-14 User Guide
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7
DA-14 Interconnection
This section provides two basic DA-14 interconnection diagrams.
•Basic Digital Distribution
In this application, the DA-14’s input is connected to an AES source (such as the ADC-
24). The unit’s four AES digital outputs are connected to AES destination devices in your
facility. Note that both DA-14 models are shown.
DAT Recorder
Facility Routing Switcher (Digital)
D/ESAM Mixer
Analog
ATR
Workstation
To Destination Digital Devices
SoundPals ADC-24
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
PWR
R Trim
L Trim
AES Out
SoundPals DA-14 (Model B)
AES3ID Out 1
AES3ID Out 2
AES3ID Out 3
AES3ID Out 4
PWR
AES In
SoundPals DA-14 (Model A)
AES Out 1
AES Out 2
AES Out 3
AES Out 4
PWR
AES In