Shure DDS 5900 User manual

DDS-5900
DDS 5900 Discussion System
The Shure DDS 5900 Discussion System user guide.
Version: 1.1 (2021-G)

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Table of Contents
DDS-5900 DDS 5900 Discussion System 4
DDS 5900 Digital Discussion System 4
Features 4
System Concepts 5
Component Overview 6
Central Control Unit 7
Discussion Units 11
Gooseneck Microphones 18
Additional Compatible Equipment 20
Hardware Installation 20
Rackmounting the CCU 20
Connecting the DCS-LAN Equipment 21
Connecting Microphone Units and DCS-LAN Components2
1
Connection Diagrams 22
Power Requirements 25
Installation Best Practices 28
Using the Discussion Units 29
Attach the Touch-Button Overlay 30
Securing the Microphone 30
Program the User Type 30
System Set Up 31
Web Interface 31
Security 37
Assigning Names and Seat Numbers 38
Audio Settings 40
Running a Discussion 45
Microphone Operation Modes 45
Maximum Speaker Setting 50
Voice Detection 52
Managing Speakers from the Web Browser 53
Language Interpretation 55
Troubleshooting 56
Factory Default Reset 58
Diagnostic Report 58
Firmware Update 58
External Control Protocol 59
General Protocol Behavior 59
Microphone Control 61
Audio Control 65
Technical Specifications 67
DDS 5900 System 67
DIS-CCU 68
Electrical 70
Electrical 70
Gooseneck Microphones 71
Wiring Details 73
How To Order 74
DIS-CCU 75
PS-CCU Power Supply 75
Microphones 77
Pre-Tested Shure Cables 77
Advanced Setup 77
Storage 78
Spare Parts 78
Certifications 78
Important 78
Important Safeguards 78

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Compliance 80
Cleaning 81
Repacking 81
Warranty 81

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DDS-5900 
DDS 5900 Discussion System
DDS 5900 Digital Discussion System
TheDDS5900DigitalDiscussionSystemisaconferencingsolutionwithplug-and-playsetupandonlinediscussionmanage-
ment.Withexcellentaudioqualityandprogrammabletouch-buttoncontrols,compactmicrophoneunitsfacilitateclearcommu-
nication in large groups and meeting spaces. The system manages up to eight talkers at a time and dedicates two channels for
interpretation, supporting bilingual events without additional equipment.
The DDS 5900 Digital Discussion System is comprised of one central unit, the control browser, and discussion units for up to
250 participants. Supporting multiple user types, a gooseneck microphone, loudspeaker, and control buttons are combined in a
compact discussion unit. With highly flexible layout options and a choice of tabletop or flushmount units, the system seamlessly
integrates into a wide range of professional environments, such as:
Corporate meeting rooms
City councils and regional government bodies
Educational institutions
Courtrooms
Videoconferencing rooms
Features
Clear, Natural Communica-
tion
DDS 5900 discussion units enhance group communication, allowing natural conversation to
beheardinlargemeetingspaces.Gooseneckmicrophonesprovideexcellentspeechisola-
tion,whiletheLEDlightringindicateswhoistalking.A24-bitdigitalaudiosignalistransport-

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edtoeachdiscussionunitforreal-timemonitoringfromtheloudspeaker.Severalmicro-
phone operation modes provide manual and automatic microphone activations.
Sleek, Professional Design
Modern,low-profiledesignintegratesintoavarietyofspaces,fromhistoricbuildingstocon-
temporary boardrooms. DDS 5900 discussion units are intuitive and functional, reducing
clutter and increasing tabletop workspace. Two model variations are available to support the
needs of any event:
Compact flushmount unit for permanent installation
Portable unit for quick setup and easy removal
Flexible Setup and Easy In-
stallation
The DDS 5900 system uses a proprietary protocol to transport digital audio, control data,
and power over the same cable (shielded Cat5e). The system supports large events of up to
250participants,easilyscalingwithadditionalcomponentsaddedinlineforasimplifiedlay-
out topology.
Remote Management
Forcomprehensivesystemmanagement,openthebrowser-basedcontrolappusingacom-
puter or tablet. The interface adds system configuration and discussion setup capabilities,
enablinganadministratortopreparethediscussionwithparticipantnamesandseatnum-
bers. The chairman or moderator uses a dedicated page for speaker management during
thediscussion.ThesystemisalsocompatiblewithCrestron,AMX,andothercontrolsys-
tems. The CCU easily interconnects with teleconferencing equipment and external audio
components.
System Concepts
The DDS 5900 Discussion system is an important communication tool for meetings of any size. Participants use the discussion
unit microphone and loudspeaker to communicate using natural speech levels.
The Discussion Unit: A Personal Sound System
TheDDS5900DiscussionSystemimprovescommunicationamongstagroupofpeoplebycombiningthemicrophone,loud-
speaker,interpretationaudio,andusercontrolsinanintegratedunit.Whenaparticipantspeaks,theirvoiceisheardattheoth-
er units' loudspeakers. The DDS 5900 is a perfect solution when every participant is both a talker and a listener.
Incontrast,traditionalsoundsystemssupportthecommunicationofoneortwospeakerstoacrowdofpeople.Inthosesys-
tems, it is impossible to have the dialog required in a discussion setting.
Discussion Participants and Roles
TheDDS5900discussionunitisprogrammabletosupportdifferentfunctionsrequiredbydifferentpeopleinvolvedinthedis-
cussion.Forexample,asthemoderatorofthediscussion,thechairmanhasanextracontrolthatimmediatelyturnsoffalldele-
gate microphones. In a typical event, there are three categories of participants:
The following is an overview of each participant role and how they function in a typical discussion.

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Delegate (member, partici-
pant)
The majority of participants fall into this category. The delegate role is for anyone involved in
the discussion that is not a chairman or interpreter. Delegates use the discussion unit to
speak and listen to other participants. Depending on the discussion settings, the delegate
may send a request to speak before the microphone is activated by the Chair.
Up to 250 participants are supported in the DDS 5900 system.
Chairman (chair, modera-
tor, president)
The chairman, or simply the Chair, is the moderator of the discussion. Typically seated at the
head of the meeting space, the Chair has the ultimate authority over who is speaking. Using
thebrowserinterface,themoderatorhasabilitytoturnmicrophonesonoroffforspecificpar-
ticipants, and view the order in which participants request to speak. Providing immediate
controlofthediscussion,an'all-delegatesoff'buttonisavailableondiscussionunitspro-
grammed to chairman mode.
There is typically only one chairman for each event, though more can be added.
Interpreter
Whenanadditionallanguageisspokeninadiscussion,aninterpreterprovidessimultane-
ous interpretation using the discussion unit. Interpreters select from one of two channels to
transmit to other participants speaking the same language. This system supports bilingual,
two-waydiscussion,facilitatingtheback-and-forthcommunicationbetweendelegatesspeak-
ing two different languages.
The system supports simultaneous interpretation for two languages
Component Overview
The DDS 5900 Discussion System consists of the following components:

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① DIS-CCU Central Con-
trol Unit
The central control unit (CCU) is the processor for the DDS 5900 system. It provides power
and control to the discussion units, analog audio inputs and outputs for external equipment,
and a web server that hosts the browser interface for remote system control. Each system
uses a single CCU.
②Discussion Units
Participants use the discussion units (DU) to speak and listen to other members of the
event. A microphone, loudspeaker, and channel selector are provided for each unit. Units
connect in series, simplifying setup by transporting power, audio, and control data on the
same cable. There are two models of discussion units:
DC 5980 P
Portable Discus-
sion Unit
All-in-one unit that sits on the table surface. It is configurable as
chairman, delegate, or interpreter.
DC 5900 F Flush-
mount Discussion
Unit
The flushmount discussion unit installs unobtrusively into a table or
podium. The modular unit adds functionality depending on the
components. It is configurable as chairman or delegate.
③Browser Interface
The browser interface provides comprehensive setup and discussion management for the
DDS 5900 system. It opens in a web browser from a computer networked with the CCU. Use
the interface to manage microphones, assign names and seat numbers to delegates, and
advanced system configuration.
Central Control Unit
The DIS-CCU Central Unit provides the intelligence for systems of up to 250 participants in the DDS 5900 system. It processes
audio and control signals from each discussion and interpreter unit, and distributes audio to other participants for listening to
the discussion.

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System Hub
The CCU connects external equipment to the DDS 5900 system
When used with the DDS 5900 system, the DIS-CCU has the following features:
Controls a system of up to 250 discussion units
Transports secure audio signal with a proprietary codec algorithm
Provides a web server for advanced control through a browser interface
Supplies power for up to 50 discussion units
Supports two (2) interpretation channels for bilingual discussions
Provides eight (8) audio outputs to send interpretation or group channels to PA systems, audio mixers, audio recorders, or
a language distribution system
Provides two (2) audio inputs for connecting wireless microphones, processed audio signals, an emergency broadcast
message (EEM), or music during meeting breaks
One rack unit (1RU) size installs into a standard 19" rack
CCU Hardware Description
Front Panel
①Menu display A 2x20 character OLED-display enables system configuration without a computer.
②Navigation Buttons 5-button keypad for configuring the system without a computer.
③Power Button
The power button turns on or off the central unit. All connected DCS-LAN units and power
supplies will automatically power on or off with the CCU.
Green = powered on
Red = powered off but connected to power supply
Off = no power supply is connected to the CCU
Note: System settings are stored and persist through a power cycle.

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Back Panel
④ Power Supply Connec-
tor Threaded connector secures to the PS-CCU power supply.
⑤DCS-LAN Outputs
Four RJ45 jacks are available for connecting conference units, forming the DCS-LAN. The
DCS-LAN chain safely carries digital audio, control data, and power over the same cable.
Use any or all of the four outputs for a variety of layout configurations.
Important: Only connect DCS-LAN equipment to this output.
⑥Control Connector
(TCP/IP)
The RJ45 connector allows access to the built-in web application from a computer, or for
connection to a control system like AMX or Crestron .
⑦Audio Outputs Eight balanced, male XLR connectors for connection to PA systems, audio mixers, audio
recorders, or a language distribution system.
⑧Audio Inputs
Two balanced, female XLR connector for adding external audio equipment to the meeting,
such as wireless microphones, a teleconferencing system, processed audio signals, an
emergencybroadcastmessage(EEM),ormusicduringmeetingbreaks.Inputgainandvol-
ume are adjust from the CCU front-panel or web application.
⑨ Emergency switch con-
nector
Provides an emergency override signal in the event of an emergency. When the connected
switch is closed, the audio signal on Input 2 is distributed to all output channels, overriding
all other audio inputs.
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Simplified Audio Diagram
DIS-CCU Audio Diagram
Menu Navigation
The DIS-CCU provides controls from the front panel for system setup and configuration. Use the 5-button keypad to navigate
the menu and change settings.
The figure below gives an overview of the menu structure.
Use arrow buttons to cycle through menu items
Press enter (center) button to navigate to an editable field.
Use up/down buttons to cycle through the available values

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Menu Overview
Discussion Units
Participants use discussion units to communicate with other members of the event. Connected in daisy-chain configuration
from the central unit, they transport digital audio, control signals, and power over a single cable. The sleek, professional design
andminimalcablingallowsseamlessintegrationintoprofessionalmeetingspaces.ADDS5900systemsupportsupto250dis-
cussion units at the same time.

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DDS 5900 Discussion Units
Primary functions of the unit:
①Microphone
for speech
②Speaker
for listening to the discussion
③Control Buttons
for microphone operation and interpretation channel selection
④Headphone Jack
for listening to an interpretation channel or the floor audio
⑤Base with RJ-45 Jacks
for power, audio, control transport
Model Variations
DC 5980 P Portable Discussion Unit
Sits on the tabletop without drilling or cutting the surface, and easily dismantles for system reconfiguration. Features include an
integrated speaker, rear-exit cable routing, and operation as an chairman, delegate, or interpreter unit.

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DC 5980 P Portable Discussion Unit
Integrated Design
The following features are integrated in the unit
Interpretation Monitoring
Listen to an interpretation channel using the channel selector and headphone output.
Sound Reinforcement
Loudspeaker for listening to other talkers.
Microphone Variations
Compatible with all DIS microphones.
DC 5900 F Flush-Mounted Discussion Unit
Installs permanently into a table or podium. A low-profile design conceals the base and cabling below the tabletop surface. This
unit can operate as a chairman or delegate.

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DC 5900 F Discussion Unit
Modular Design
Functionality is scalable by adding or subtracting parts.
Interpretation Monitoring
Two front plate variations are available:
FP 5981 F: interpretation monitoring is supported with a headphone jack and channel selector
FP 5921 F: not supported
Sound Reinforcement
Add the optional LS 5900 F loudspeaker for listening to other talkers.
Microphone Variations
In addition to DIS microphones, several Shure Microflex Gooseneck microphones are compatible with the flushmount unit
by connecting the AC 5901 adapter.
Overlay Control Buttons
The discussion unit is programmable to support different people involved in the discussion. For example, as the moderator of
the discussion, the chairman has an extra control that immediately turns off all delegate microphones.
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Using the Controls
Icon Name Description
Speech Press to turn on the microphone or add the user to the request list,
depending on the system operation mode set in the CU.
Mute
Press and hold to temporarily mute the audio from the microphone.
During this time, the delegate will retain speaking privileges but the
microphone will not pass audio to the floor sound. The microphone
light ring is off during mute.
Delegate Off Thechairmanusesthisbuttontoimmediatelyturnoffalldelegatemi-
crophones.
Interpreter
Output Chan-
nel
Selects the transmitting (outbound) channel of the interpreter station.
Note: Only available for the DC 5980 P portable unit.
Interpretation
Monitoring
Scroll through the channels to select an audio source for monitoring
on headphones. Channels 1 and 2 select a language interpretation
source; floor sound is selected when the LEDs are off.
Headphone
Volume Increase or decrease the volume of the headphone audio signal.

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Overlay Variations
DC 5980 P Portable Unit
Delegates
Buttons Image
speech
mute
Interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
speech
Interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
Chairman
Buttons Image
speech
delegate off
Interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
Interpreter
Buttons Image
speech
mute
interpreter channel
send
headphone volume
DC 5900 F Flushmount Unit
The DC 5900 F flushmount unit has two options for the front plate:

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FP 5981 F Front Plate (with interpretation monitoring)
Delegates
Buttons Image
speech
mute
interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
speech
interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
Chairman
Buttons Image
speech
delegate off
interpretation monitor-
ing
headphone volume
FP 5921 F Front Plate (without interpretation monitoring)
Delegates
Buttons Image
speech
mute
speech
No buttons
Chairman
Buttons Image
speech
delegate off

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Gooseneck Microphones
GM 592x Series
The DIS GM 592x microphone delivers excellent audio performance with a frequency response specifically tailored for speech.
The gooseneck is on the base of the microphone, providing flexible positioning. A red LED ring at the top of the microphone
clearly indicates when the microphone is active and the participant is speaking.
Two models are available:
GM 5923: 40 cm (16 in.)
GM 5924: 50 cm (20 in.)
DIS GM 592x
MX 400 Gooseneck for Flushmount Units
The DC 5900 F Flushmount discussion unit functions with Shure MX 400 RLP series microphones. Featuring legendary Shure
audio performance and build quality, CommShield Technology eliminates noise caused by smart phones, tablets, WiFi and
other RFI. A red LED ring at the top of the microphone clearly indicates when the microphone is active and the participant is
speaking.
Simply screw the AC 5901 XLR adapter to the bottom of the microphone, and insert it into discussion unit.
MX 405 RLP: 15 cm (6 in.)
MX 410 RLP: 25 cm (10 in.)
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•MX 415 RLP: 38 cm (15 in.)
Shure MX 4xx RLP
AC 5901 XLR Adapter

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Additional Compatible Equipment
The following units are available to use in the DDS 5900 system:
Additional Power and Ad-
vanced Setup
EX 6010 Extension Unit Extension unit provides four chain outputs, each with independent power supplies and data
refreshing capabilities.
RP 6004 Repeater/Splitter Refreshes data signal for long cable runs and provides four additional outputs for discussion
unit chains.
PS-6000 Power Inserter Provides power for up to 50 discussion units.
JB 6104 Junction Box Provides four tap-out points for discussion units. Each tap-out supports a single discussion
unit that can be connected or disconnected without damage to the unit.
RC 6000 Redundancy Con-
troller
Enables the connection of a redundant PS-CCU power supply to protect the CCU operation
against power failures.
SZ 6104 Switcher ConnectstwoCCUsforadvancedsystemconfigurationsandinstallationsthatsharere-
sources across multiple rooms.
Accessories
Headphones
DH 6021: Stereo on-ear headphones
DH 6223: Stereo stethoscope headphones
DH 6225: Mono ear-clip headphone
Hardware Installation
Microphone units operate by connecting in series from the central unit. Power, audio, and data are transported over a shielded
Cat 5e cable from one unit to the next. This topology enables flexible and inexpensive installation for large groups of people.
Rackmounting the CCU
Installthecentralcontrolunitinastandard19”rackusingthesupplied19”brackets.Removethescrewsholdingthetopand
bottom covers, then attach the brackets to the front of the unit using the same screws.
Important: Use the two 10 mm length self-threading screws closest to the front and the 8 mm length threaded screw furthest
from the front.
The built-in fan draws air in on the left side and exhausts air on the right, and so does not require extra space above or below
for cooling.