Symetrix 610 User manual

i
Model 610
Broadcast Audio Delay
Revision 1.4, 9 July, 1997
Symetrix part number: 530610
Subject to change at our whim and fancy, without notice.
Copyright 1996, Symetrix, Inc. All rights reserved.
Symetrix is a registered trademark of Symetrix, Inc.
Orban and OPTIMOD are registered trademarks of AKG Acoustics, Inc.
Mention of third-party products is for informational purposes only and
constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Symetrix
assumes no responsibility with regard to the performance or use of these
products.
Under copyright laws, no part of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, scanning, recording or by any information
storage and retrieval system, without permission, in writing, from
Symetrix, Inc.
User's Guide
Symetrix, Inc.
6408 216th St. SW
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 USA
Voice: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.symetrixaudio.com

ii
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Safety Information 2
Operator safety summary 2
Other safety information 3
3 Summary Product Description 4
Front panel view 4
Rear panel view 5
4 Installation 6
AC line connection 6
Mounting in an equipment rack 6
Audio input connections 7
Audio output connections 7
Typical system block diagram 7
Remote indicator and control interface connections 7
5 Operation 8
Operational Status 8
The INPUT HEADROOM(dB) display 8
The START DELAY button 9
The EXIT DELAY button 9
The DELAY TIME (SECONDS) display 10
Lamp Functions 10
6 Troubleshooting 11
Solutions to common problems 11
Less common problems 11
7 Warranty and Service 12
The Symetrix 610 Limited Warranty 12
Servicing the 610 13
Return authorization 13
In-warranty repairs 13
Out-of-warranty repairs 13
Appendix A Specifications 14
Architects and engineers specifications 14
Technical specifications 14
Appendix B Remote Indicator and Control Interface Wiring 15
Remote panel switch pinouts 15
Remote panel LED pinouts 15
Cart machine start opto isolator pinouts 15
Typical remote panel switch wiring 16
Typical remote panel LED wiring 16
Appendix C Default Configuration 17
START DELAY and EXIT DELAY speed 17
Full memory dump or 3.75 second dump 17
Default configuration programming 18

Page 1
Introduction
Congratulations on your decision to use a Symetrix model 610 Broadcast Audio Delay. The 610
has been designed to give broadcasters unequaled performance combined with ease of use and
reliability. This manual will guide you through the installation and operation of the 610, and
provide valuable tips on how to interface with other equipment in your studio or control room.
The 610 gives the host or producer of a talk show the power to prevent the broadcast of unwanted
profanities or comments from telephone callers. As the program begins, the 610 gradually and
unobtrusively delays or "stretches out" the program until 7 1/2 seconds of 14kHz bandwidth
stereo audio is stored in memory. When a person on the telephone line says something the host or
producer does not think appropriate for the broadcast, he or she presses the DUMP PROFANITY
button and the memory is cleared, thereby preventing the unwanted audio from reaching the
airwaves. Meanwhile, the host releases the offending caller from the telephone line and proceeds
with the program. After the DUMP PROFANITY button has been pressed, the 610 automatically
begins to stretch (time expand) the program audio again until the full 7 1/2 second delay is
attained.
Several minutes in advance of the end of the talk show, the host or producer presses the EXIT
DELAY button and the 610 begins to time compress the program audio until there is nothing left
in the 610's memory (zero seconds delay). At this point the program is back in "real time" and the
610 automatically removes itself from the signal path.
A unique feature of the 610 is the COUGH button, which allows the host to make impromptu
interruptions in the program for up to 7 1/2 seconds while keeping the audience unaware of the
break. When the COUGH button is pushed, the 610 plays from memory while the button is held
in. As soon as the button is released, the 610 automatically begins to refill the memory. The host
can cough, have a quick drink of water, or make a comment to the producer or engineer without
any perceptible program interruption.
The 610 uses the latest in delta-sigma conversion technology coupled with advanced digital
signal processing (DSP) algorithms. This combination produces a product that meets or exceeds
the highest broadcast standards in terms of low noise, low distortion, and superb signal process-
ing.
The 610's logical, easy to use control panel holds no hidden surprises. The product is easy to
learn and simple to use. In the sections that follow you'll find information on installation, opera-
tion, and specific applications of the 610. We follow this with a troubleshooting guide, warranty
and service information, and detailed specifications.
As with all Symetrix products, the 610 has been designed and built to the highest standards of the
broadcast industry. Our company is committed to excellence in product design, manufacturing,
and service. Please do not hesitate to contact us with your questions or comments.
1

Page 2
Safety Information
Operator safety summary
The information in this summary is intended for persons who operate the equipment as well as
repair personnel. Specific warnings and cautions are found throughout this manual wherever they
may apply; they do not appear in this summary.
The notational conventions used in this manual and on the equipment itself are described in the
following paragraphs.
Equipment markings
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol
within an equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user of the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the product's
enclosure that may be of sufficient magni-
tude to constitute a risk of electric shock to
persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user of the
presence of important operating and mainte-
nance (servicing) instructions in the litera-
ture accompanying the 610 (i.e. this
manual).
CAUTION
WARNING:
ATTENTION:
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
S’adresser a un reparateur compétent.
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
Il ne se trouve a l’interieur aucune piece pourvant entre reparée l’usager.
DO NOT OPEN
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Caution
To prevent electric shock, do not use the polarized plug supplied with the 610 with any extension
cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Terms
Several notational conventions are used in this manual. Some paragraphs may use Note, Caution,
or Warning as a heading. These headings have the following meaning:
Note Identifies information that needs extra emphasis. A Note generally supplies extra
information to help you to better use the 610.
Caution Identifies information that, if not heeded, may cause damage to the 610 or other
equipment in your system.
Warning Identifies information that, if ignored, may be hazardous to your health or
that of others.
In addition, certain typefaces and capitalization are used to identify certain words. These are:
CAPITALS Controls, switches or other markings on the 610's chassis.
Boldface Strong emphasis.
2

Page 3
Other safety information
Power source
This product is intended to operate from a power source that does not apply more than 255Vrms
between the power supply conductors or between either power supply conductor and ground. A
protective ground connection, by way of the grounding conductor in the power cord, is essential
for safe operation.
Grounding
The chassis of this product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord. To
avoid electric shock, plug the power cord into a properly wired receptacle before making any
connections to the product. A protective ground connection, by way of the grounding conductor
in the power cord, is essential for safe operation.
Danger from loss of ground
If the protective ground connection is lost, all accessible conductive parts, including knobs and
controls that may appear to be insulated, can render an electric shock.
Proper power cord
Use only the power cord and connector specified for the product. Use only a cord that is in good
condition.
Proper fuse
The fuse is mounted internally and is not considered user serviceable. The fuseholder accepts
American sized fuses (1/4 inch diameter) or European sized fuses (5mm diameter). For 117VAC
operation, the correct value is 1/2A, 250VAC, fast blowing (Bussman type AGC). For 230VAC
operation, the correct value is 1/4A, 250VAC, slow blowing (Bussman type MDL or GDC).
Operating location
Do not operate this equipment under any of the following conditions: explosive atmospheres, in
wet locations, in inclement weather, improper or unknown AC mains voltage, or if improperly
fused.
Stay out of the box
To avoid personal injury or injury to others, do not remove the product covers or panels. Do not
operate the product without the covers and panels properly installed.

Page 4
INACTIVE ACTIVE
BYPASS
OPERATE
AUDIO DELAY
BROADCAST
016
START DELAYEXIT DELAYINPUT HEADROOM (dB)
STATUS
036912151824 2130 27
DELAYDELAY 33
3
The STATUS button places the 610 in either BYPASS or OPERATE modes. In BYPASS mode
the incoming signals are directly routed (via relays) to the 610's outputs, thereby bypassing any
internal circuitry. In BYPASS mode, the front panel and remote controls have no effect on the
operation of the 610. In OPERATE mode, the incoming signals are processed through the 610's
analog and digital circuitry, and all front panel and remote controls are fully functional.
The INPUT HEADROOM(dB) LED display indicates the headroom in decibels before the
onset of input clipping. The display indicates the higher (i.e. worst case) of the two incoming
stereo channels.
The EXIT DELAY button initiates the gradual reduction of delay time. Once this button is
pressed, assuming no other control button is subsequently pressed, the 610 will proceed to
incrementally reduce delay time until a zero delay is achieved.
The START DELAY button initiates the gradual increase of delay time. Once this button is
pressed, assuming no other control button is subsequently pressed, the 610 will proceed to
incrementally increase delay time until a 7 1/2 second delay is achieved.
Summary Product Description
This chapter provides a basic overview of the 610 by describing the input and output connections,
power connection, operating controls, front panel LED indicators, and the remote indicator and
control interface. Use this information to acquaint yourself with the product. Chapter 4 (Installa-
tion) gives details on installing the 610 in your system and Chapter 5 (Operation) gets into
specific applications and uses of the 610 in detail.
Front panel view (left)
START DELAY button
EXIT DELAY buttonSTATUS (BYPASS/OPERATE) button
INPUT HEADROOM LED display
Front panel view (right)
COUGH button
DUMP PROFANITY button
DELAY TIME LED display Abstract but deeply meaning-
ful graphic symbol (ADMGS)
DELAY TIME (SECONDS)COUGH DUMP PROFANITY
7.576.55.554.53.5 42.5 321.51.50 6

Page 5
Pressing the COUGH button mutes the incoming signal while allowing the output signal to play
(uninterrupted) from the 610's memory. The 610 will continue to play from memory for so long
as the button is pressed. When the COUGH button is released, the 610 resumes recording into
memory and "splices out" the silence created while the button was pressed. The 610 then begins
to rebuild the delay time used while the COUGH button was pressed. The listener will be aware
of a program interruption if and only if the button is held for a time exceeding the time in
memory.
Assuming the memory contains the maximum 7 1/2 seconds of audio, and the 610 is config-
ured for full memory dump, pressing the DUMP PROFANITY button erases the entire memory.
The 610 proceeds to splice back together everything except the erased audio. If no other control
button is subsequently pressed, the 610 will proceed to incrementally increase delay time until a
7 1/2 second delay is again achieved. See Chapter 5 and Appendix C for details on the 3 3/4
second (partial dump) option and a more detailed explanation of the DUMP PROFANITY
function.
The AC INPUT connector accepts nominal AC power sources of 117 volts or 230 volts [see
Appendix A (Specifications) for voltage tolerance ranges]. See chapter 4 (Installation) for details
on the detachable (IEC) power cable.
The REMOTE INDICATOR AND CONTROL INTERFACE provides a way to connect to a
user supplied remote control and/or indicator panel. See Appendix B for details.
The LEFT OUTPUT and RIGHT OUTPUT audio connectors are electronically balanced, line
level, low impedance outputs. Pin 1 is ground. Pin 2 is high. Pin 3 is low.
The NOMINAL OPERATING LEVEL select button matches the 610's input sensitivity to the
nominal output level of the device (normally the on-air console) driving the 610. The two options
are +8dBu and +4dBu. See Chapter 4 (Installation) for further discussion of signal levels.
The LEFT INPUT and RIGHT INPUT audio connectors are electronically balanced, line level,
bridging inputs. Pin 1 is ground. Pin 2 is high. Pin 3 is low.
AC INPUT
610
BROADCAST AUDIO DELAY
LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT
REMOTE INDICATOR AND
CONTROL INTERFACE
20W MAXIMUM
THIS UNIT CONTAINS NO
USER SERVICEABLE PARTS.
MANUFACTURED IN THE USA BY
AC INPUT connector
REMOTE INDICATOR AND CONTROL INTERFACE RIGHT OUTPUT audio connector
Rear panel view (right)
ESSPRESSPR
-10 dBV
+4 dBu
LEVEL (dB)
RIGHT INPUT
NOMINAL OPERATING
LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT
REMOTE INDICATOR AND
CONTROL INTERFACE
.
Y
LEFT INPUT
NOMINAL OPERATING LEVEL select button
LEFT INPUT audio connector RIGHT INPUT audio connector
Rear panel view (left)
LEFT OUTPUT audio connector

Page 6
Installation
Before you plug the 610 into a wall socket, carefully read the information in the following
chapter.
AC Line connection
A sticker on the right end of the unit (as viewed from the front) indicates the nominal voltage
setting for the unit as it left the Symetrix factory. If this does not correspond to the voltage setting
for your locale then do not attempt to apply power to the 610. Instead, return the unit to your local
Symetrix distributor for modification.
The 610 is shipped from the Symetrix factory with a detachable AC power cable (IEC standard)
included. Depending on the intended destination, the power plug is either the US type (intended
for 117VAC use), or the Europlug type. If the power cable's plug is not right for your locale, then
please contact your local Symetrix distributor for the proper cable.
Once you have determined that the 610's operating voltage matches that of your locale and you are
ready to begin, follow these steps:
1 Plug the socket end of the power cable into the recessed AC power receptacle on the back
of the 610.
2 Plug the other end of the power cable into a three-hole grounded outlet or power strip.
WARNING The 610 is intended to be electrically grounded. It has been provided with a
three-wire grounding plug - a plug that has a third (grounding) pin. This plug will fit only
a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the
outlet, contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded outlet.
Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding plug!
Mounting in an equipment rack
The 610 occupies one rack space (1U) in a standard equipment rack with a width of 19" (48.3cm),
a depth of 7.5"(19.1cm), and a height of 1.75"(4.45cm). Allow at least 4"(10.16cm) behind the
unit for the protrusion of connectors. We recommend you take care not to mount the 610 next to
devices that emit large electromagnetic fields, such as audio power amplifiers. To do so may
comprise the noise performance of the 610. The 610 has been designed to conform to mechanical
guidelines as described in EIA Standard RS-310-C and IEC Recommendation 297.
Audio input connections
The 610's audio input connections are via standard female XLR jacks located on the rear panel.
For optimum system performance we recommend that the 610 be connected to balanced signal
sources. If this is not practical in your situation, then you may connect to unbalanced sources. The
following diagram illustrates recommended cable wiring practices.
4
132
Male XLR
Male XLR
Pin 1=Ground
Pin 2 = High
Pin 3 = Low
123
Pin 3 = Low
Pin 2 = High
Pin 1=Ground
213
TIP
RING
S
LEEVE
Sleeve = Ground
Ring = Low
Tip = High
Male 1/4" Tip-Ring-Sleeve Plug
Female XLR
Pin 1=Ground
Pin 3 = Low
Pin 2 = High
Analog Source 610 Analog Input

Page 7
Typical system block diagram
In most broadcast applications it is recommended that the 610 be connected between the station's
on air console and the station's audio processing equipment. In other words, the console's main
stereo (or mono) output bus should connect to the 610's inputs, and the 610's outputs should feed
the "down stream" signal processing. As discussed in Chapter 5 (Operation), the 610 will auto-
matically remove itself from the signal path when not in use.
Input Output
Output Input
Signal Levels
The 610 has been designed to operate at standard nominal broadcast signal levels of either 0VU =
+4dBu or 0VU = +8dBu. The 610's rear panel NOMINAL OPERATING LEVEL button allows
you match the 610 to either of these standards. If your console's nominal output level is lower than
the +4dBu standard then you may wish to use a line amplifier to boost your input to the standard
level. If you choose operate the 610 below standard line levels you may notice some decrease in the
signal to noise ratio at the output of the 610.
Audio output connections
The 610's audio output connections are via standard female XLR jacks located on the rear panel.
For optimum system performance we recommend that the 610 be connected to balanced devices. If
this is not practical in your situation, then you may connect to unbalanced devices. The following
diagram illustrates recommended cable wiring practices.
76 6.5 7.5
DELAY TIME (SECONDS)
54 4.53 3.52 2.51 1.5.50
DUMP PROFANITYCOUGH
5.5
START DELAYEXIT DELAY
03961521 1827 2433 30 12
INPUT HEADROOM (dB)
STATUS
ACTIVE
DELAY
DELAY
OPERATE
BYPASS
INACTIVE
106
BROADCAST
AUDIO DELAY
312
TIP
Pin 3 = Low
Pin 2 = High
Pin 1=Ground
Male XLR
Tip = High
Male 1/4" Tip-Ring-Sleeve Plug
RING
S
LEEVE
Sleeve = Ground
Ring = Low
321
23
Pin 2 = High
Pin 3 = Low
Pin 1=Ground
Female XLR
Pin 1=Ground
Female XLR
1
Pin 3 = Low
Pin 2 = High
610 Output Destination device input

Page 8
5Operation
This section describes in detail the 610's front panel controls and LED indicators.
Operational status
The STATUS button places the 610 in either BYPASS or OPERATE modes. In BYPASS mode
the incoming signals are directly routed (via relays) to the 610's outputs, thereby bypassing any
internal circuitry. In BYPASS mode the front panel and remote controls have no effect on the
operation of the 610. In OPERATE mode, when the delay is active, the incoming signals are
processed through the 610's analog and digital circuitry, and all front panel and remote controls
are fully functional.
It is recommended that the STATUS button remain in the OPERATE (inward) position at all
times. Typically, the 610 would be placed in the BYPASS mode only if the unit were to malfunc-
tion. By design, two circumstances force the 610's audio bypass relays to route the incoming
signal directly to the 610's output. The first being loss of mains (AC) power to the 610 and the
second being the normal operational function of EXIT DELAY (explained in detail below). Once
the 610 has achieved zero time delay as a result of the EXIT DELAY button being pressed, the
audio bypass relays automatically remove the 610 from the signal path until the START DELAY
button is pressed.
There are two LED's associated with the STATUS button. The LED to the left of the button,
labeled DELAY INACTIVE, lights whenever the 610 has been forced to a bypass state. This can
happen automatically as a result of the EXIT DELAY function or manually as a result of moving
the STATUS button to the BYPASS position.
The LED to the right of the STATUS button, labeled DELAY ACTIVE, lights whenever the 610
has been forced to operational status. This happens only as a result of the START DELAY
function (explained in detail below).
INPUT HEADROOM (dB) display
The INPUT HEADROOM (dB) LEDs indicate the headroom in decibels before the onset of input
clipping. The display indicates the higher (i.e. worst case) of the two incoming stereo channels.
While the 610 has no front panel input level control, a rear panel OPERATING LEVEL button is
provided (see discussion below), allowing you to select between nominal +4dBu and +8dBu
operating levels. Whatever your input levels are, fine adjustment of the input signal must be done
ahead of the 610 (typically with the master buss control fader of the broadcast console).
The incoming signal level should be adjusted so that at least 6dB of headroom is maintained at
all times. As digital devices go, the 610 is very quiet. Therefore, to ensure against any possibility
of clipping, you may wish to decrease input levels even further and operate with as much as 12dB
of headroom.

Page 9
The START DELAY button
The START DELAY button initiates the gradual increase of delay time. When a radio talk show
is to begin, the first action for the operator of the 610 is to press the green START DELAY
button. Pressing the START DELAY button switches the 610 out of hard-wire bypass. Once this
lighted button has been pressed, it's light will blink for as long as delay time is increasing. The
DELAY TIME LED display on the right end of the 610's front panel displays the amount of time
in memory at any given instant. From a starting point of zero delay time, the amount of time that
it takes to achieve the maximum 7 1/2 second delay depends upon the 610's default configuration
setting (see Appendix C for details). Once the START DELAY button is pressed, assuming no
other control button is subsequently pressed, the 610 will proceed to incrementally increase delay
time until a 7 1/2 second delay is achieved.
The EXIT DELAY button
The EXIT DELAY button initiates the gradual decrease of delay time. Several minutes in ad-
vance of the end of a radio talk show, the operator of the 610 must press the yellow EXIT DE-
LAY button. Once this lighted button is pressed, its light will blink as long as delay time is
decreasing. The DELAY TIME LED display on the right end of the 610's front panel displays the
amount of time in memory at any given instant. Assuming that the delay is at the maximum of 7
1/2 seconds, the amount of time that it takes to reduce the delay time to zero seconds depends
upon the 610's default configuration setting (see Appendix C for details). Once the EXIT DELAY
button is pressed, assuming no other control button is subsequently pressed, the 610 will proceed
to incrementally decrease delay time until a zero delay time has been reached. Once zero delay
has been reached, the DELAY INACTIVE LED lights and the 610's audio bypass relays revert to
the bypass position.
The COUGH button
The COUGH button allows the host to make impromptu interruptions in the program for up to 7
1/2 seconds (or the maximum amount of time in memory, whichever is less) while keeping the
audience unaware of the break. When the COUGH button is pushed and held in, the 610 plays
from memory and mutes incoming audio. As soon as the button is released, the 610 resumes
recording into memory and "splices out" the silence created while the audio was muted. The 610
then begins to rebuild the delay time used while the COUGH button was pushed. The host can
cough, have a quick drink of water, or make a comment to the producer or engineer without any
perceptible program interruption. If the COUGH button is pressed for an amount of time exceed-
ing the amount of time in memory, the result will be muted output audio (dead air).
The DUMP PROFANITY button
The DUMP PROFANITY button should be pressed as soon as an unwanted comment is heard.
Once pressed, the audio in memory is instantly erased. If memory has built up to the full 7 1/2
seconds then the 610 automatically "splices" around the erased audio so the audience hears no
dead air. If less than the full 7 1/2 seconds (2 seconds, for example) have accrued in memory at
the time the button is momentarily pressed, then the two seconds are erased and the program is
now on-the-air at real time. Please understand that if the talk show host has not given the 610
time to build up to 7 1/2 seconds of delay when he momentarily hits the DUMP PROFANITY
button an obscenity may get on the air.
Units with Version 1.05 software allow the host extra protection in the form of muting if he

Page 10
purposely holds down the DUMP PROFANITY button. Holding down the button would erase
the two seconds from memory and mute the output of the 610 until the DUMP PROFANITY
button is released. This provides a "panic button" function for use if all hell breaks loose. The
muting function does not activate when the DUMP PROFANITY button is pushed and quickly
released.
After a DUMP PROFANITY command the 610 automatically reenters the START DELAY mode
and the delay memory begins accruing until the full 7 1/2 seconds are achieved.
Alternatively, the 610 can be set up so that only 3 3/4 seconds of memory are deleted the first
time the button is pushed, thereby maintaining a 3 3/4 second reserve. This allows the host to
bring another caller on air right away without having to wait for the memory to build up from
zero. As in the case of the full 7 1/2 second dump, if the 610 has accrued only two seconds in
memory when the DUMP PROFANITY button is pushed, the host will have only two seconds of
protection and the program will be on-the-air at real time. The 610 offers the host extra protection
in the form of muting if he purposely holds down the DUMP PROFANITY button. Holding
down the button would erase the two seconds from memory and mute the output of the 610 until
the DUMP PROFANITY button is released. This provides a "panic button" function for use if
things get too crazy. The muting function does not activate when the DUMP PROFANITY
button is pushed and quickly released.
See Appendix C (Default Configuration) for details on how to select between full memory dump
or partial (3 3/4 second) dump.
The DELAY TIME (SECONDS) display
As explained on the previous page, the DELAY TIME LED display indicates the time duration of
the program audio in the 610's memory at any instant. If the 610 has been manually placed in
BYPASS mode, or if the delay memory is zero seconds as a result of the EXIT DELAY function,
all DELAY TIME LEDs will be off. The display is calibrated in .5 second intervals from zero to 7
1/2 seconds.
Lamp Functions
The following summarizes the functioning of the front panel push-button lamps (and correspond-
ing remote panel LEDs, if used) while the 610 is in OPERATE mode.
COUGH DUMP PROFANITYSTART DELAYEXIT DELAY
FLASH - delay time decreasing
SOLID ON - delay is zero, unit bypassed
OFF - all other times
FLASH - delay time increasing
OFF - all other times
SOLID ON- full 7.5
seconds of delay
achieved
SOLID ON - while button pressed
OFF - all other times
FLASH - for 5 seconds after
button has been pressed
OFF - all other times

Page 11
6Troubleshooting
Solutions to common problems
There is no output signal.
Check the AC power connections to the 610.
Check input and output cables and connections.
Determine that there really is a signal coming from the source and that it is getting to the 610.
Distortion in the digital output signal.
Check the input signal. Is it overdriving the 610's input? If so, the INPUT HEADROOM display
should indicate so.
Is the incoming signal already distorted? Listen "up stream" from the 610 (or manually place the
unit in BYPASS mode) to determine that you are feeding it a clean signal.
Buzz in the output
Check input and output connector wiring.
Check for ground loops between interconnected system equipment.
Are all system components on the same AC ground?
Noise (hiss)
Check input signal levels and input level control settings. The input may be too low in level. If
so, boost the signal from your console or input source.
Is the input signal already noisy? Listen "up stream" from the 610 to determine if you are feeding
it a clean signal.
Less common problems
The 610 doesn't power up or doesn't respond properly.
Consult a qualified service technician or the Symetrix factory.
The 610 is not plugged in, but works great anyway.
Consult your doctor or therapist.

Page 12
7Warranty and Service
The Symetrix 610 Limited Warranty
Symetrix, Inc. expressly warrants that the product will be free from defects in material and
workmanship for one (1) year. Symetrix's obligations under this warranty will be limited to
repairing or replacing, at Symetrix's option, the part or parts of the product which prove defective
in material or workmanship within one (1) year from date of purchase, provided that the Buyer
gives Symetrix prompt notice of any defect or failure and satisfactory proof thereof. Products
may be returned by Buyer only after a Return Authorization number (RA) has been obtained from
Symetrix. Buyer will prepay all freight charges to return the product to the Symetrix factory.
Symetrix reserves the right to inspect any products which may be the subject of any warranty
claim before repair or replacement is carried out. Symetrix may, at its option, require proof of the
original date of purchase (dated copy of original retail dealer's invoice). Final determination of
warranty coverage lies solely with Symetrix. Products repaired under warranty will be returned
freight prepaid via United Parcel Service by Symetrix, to any location within the Continental
United States. Outside the Continental United States, products will be returned freight collect.
The foregoing warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, whether oral, written, express,
implied or statutory. Symetrix, Inc. expressly disclaims any IMPLIED warranties, includ-
ing fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability. Symetrix's warranty obligation and
buyer'sremedies hereunder are SOLELY and exclusively as stated herein.
This Symetrix product is designed and manufactured for use in professional and studio audio
systems and is not intended for other usage. With respect to products purchased by consumers for
personal, family, or household use, Symetrix expressly disclaims all implied warranties,
including but not limited to warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose.
This limited warranty, with all terms, conditions and disclaimers set forth herein, shall extend to
the original purchaser and anyone who purchases the product within the specified warranty
period.
Warranty Registration must be completed and mailed to Symetrix within thirty (30) days of the
date of purchase.
Symetrix does not authorize any third party, including any dealer or sales representative, to
assume any liability or make any additional warranties or representation regarding this product
information on behalf of Symetrix.
This limited warranty gives the buyer certain rights. You may have additional rights provided by
applicable law.
Limitation of Liability
The total liability of Symetrix on any claim, whether in contract, tort (including negligence) or
otherwise arising out of, connected with, or resulting from the manufacture, sale, delivery, resale,
repair, replacement or use of any product will not exceed the price allocatable to the product or
any part thereof which gives rise to the claim. In no event will Symetrix be liable for any inciden-
tal or consequential damages including but not limited to damage for loss of revenue, cost of
capital, claims of customers for service interruptions or failure to supply, and costs and expenses
incurred in connection with labor, overhead, transportation, installation or removal of products,
substitute facilities or supply houses.

Page 13
Servicing the 610
If you have determined that your 610 requires repair services and you live outside of the
United States please contact your local Symetrix dealer or distributor for instructions on how to
obtain service. If you reside in the U.S. then proceed as follows.
Return authorization
At the Symetrix factory, Symetrix will perform in-warranty or out-of-warranty service on any
product it has manufactured for a period of five years from date of manufacture.
Before sending anything to Symetrix, please contact our Customer Service Department for a
return authorization (RA) number. The telephone number is [phone], Monday through
Friday, 8AM (800 hours) through 4:30 PM (1630 hours), Pacific Time.
In-warranty repairs
To get your 610 repaired under the terms of the warranty:
1. Call us for an RA number.
2. Pack the unit in its original packaging materials.
3. Include your name, address, daytime telephone number, and a brief statement of the problem.
4. Write the RA number on the outside of the box.
5. Ship the unit to Symetrix, freight prepaid. We do not accept freight collect shipments.
Just do these five things, and repairs made in-warranty will cost you only one way freight
charges. We'll pay the return freight.
If you choose to send us your product in some sort of flimsy, non-Symetrix packaging, we'll have
to charge you for proper shipping materials. If you don't have the factory packaging materials,
then do yourself a favor by using an oversize box. Wrap the unit in a plastic bag, surround it with
bubble-wrap, and place it in the box surrounded by Styrofoam peanuts. Be sure there is enough
clearance in the box to protect the rack ears (you wouldn't believe how many units are returned
with bent ears). We won't return the unit in anything but Symetrix packaging for which we will
have to charge you. Of course, if the problem turns out to be operator inflicted, you'll have to pay
for both parts and labor. In any event, if there are charges for the repair, you will pay for the
return freight. All charges will be COD unless you have made other arrangements (prepaid, Visa
or Mastercard).
Out-of-warranty repairs
If the warranty period has passed, you'll be billed for all necessary parts, labor, packaging materi-
als, and freight charges. Please remember, you must call for an RA number before sending the
unit to Symetrix.

Page 14
Specifications
Architects and engineers specifications
The Broadcast Audio Delay shall be a stereo model whose output is delayed by as much as 7 1/2 seconds, thereby
allowing the operator to delete or "dump" unwanted audio The Broadcast Audio Delay shall occupy one rack space
(1U).
The inputs shall be active balanced bridging designs terminated with 3-pin XLR (AES/IEC standard wiring) female
jacks.
The outputs shall be active balanced designs terminated with 3-pin XLR (AES/IEC standard wiring) male jacks.
Overall frequency response shall be 20Hz to 14kHz, +1,-1dB, measured at +4dBu output. There shall be no more than
0.1% harmonic distortion measured under the following conditions: +4dBu input, +4dBm output, 7 1/2 second delay,
1000Hz test frequency.
When the unit is inoperative (either by loss of power, or via the BYPASS switch), the inputs and outputs shall be wired
together.
The Broadcast Audio Delay shall be capable of operating by means of its own built-in power supply connected to 117V
nominal AC (105 to 130V), 50/60 Hz and 230V nominal AC (207 to 253V), 50 Hz.
The Broadcast Audio Delay shall be a Symetrix, Incorporated model 610 BROADCAST AUDIO DELAY.
Architects and engineers specifications
A
appendix
Audio
Inputs Stereo, balanced bridging
Outputs Stereo, electronically balanced
Maximuminputlevel +22dBu
Maximum output level +22dbu into 600 ohms
Frequency Response ±1dB, 20Hz-14kHz(in full delay)
-3.5dB@10kHz (building and exiting delay)
DynamicRange >80dB
Crosstalk -55dB, +4dBu in, 20Hz-14kHz
Input common mode rejection >60dB @ 1kHz
Physical
Inputconnectors XLR
Outputconnectors XLR
Polarity Pin 2 high
Chassis size 1.75" H x 19" W x 7.5" D
4.45cm H x 48.3cm W x 19.1cm D
Shipping weight 8 lbs, 3.64kg
Electrical
Power 117VAC, nominal, 105-130VAC, 50-60Hz
230VAC, nominal, 207-255VAC, 50Hz
Power Consumption 15 watts, maximum
In the interest of continuous product improvement, Symetrix, Inc.
reserves the right to alter, change, or modify these specifications
without prior notice.
Copyright 1995, Symetrix, Inc.All rights reserved.
Technical specifications

Page 15
B
appendix Remote Indicator and Control Interface Wiring
Many of the 610's most important control buttons and LED indicators may be wired to a user
supplied panel via the DB-25 multi-pin male connector on the 610's rear panel. In addition, a
control current loop is provided for triggering optically isolated control input ports such as those
found on cart machines. The current flows for 100 milliseconds every time the DUMP PROFAN-
ITY button is pressed. The following tables detail the pin functions. The remote switches and
LED indicators are electrically isolated from the switches and LEDs on the 610's front panel, but
effectively operate in parallel (i.e. simultaneously) with them.
Remote panel switch pinouts
Function Pin #
START DELAY 1
EXIT DELAY 4
DUMP PROFANITY 7
COUGH 10
Emergency BYPASS 14
Switch Common 13
Remote panel LED indicator pinouts
Function LED Cathode LED Anode
3.5 Seconds pin 3 pin 2
7 1/2 Seconds pin 6 pin 5
START DELAY pin 9 pin 8
EXIT DELAY pin 12 pin 11
DUMP PROFANITY pin 16 pin 15
COUGH pin 18 pin 17
BYPASS pin 20 pin 19
OPERATE pin 22 pin 21
Cart machine start opto isolator pinouts
Cathode Anode Ground
24 23 25
Note
The remote switches used should be high quality,
momentary, single pole, push button type. All
switches should return to pin #13, the switch
common point.
Note
If the 610's STATUS has been forced to BYPASS
mode by the front panel button, the only way to
return the 610 to OPERATE mode is to depress the
front panel button. It cannot be done remotely.
Note
Internally within the 610, all LED
anodes connect to +10V and all
LED cathodes to +.6V through 330
ohm resistors.
Note
Pin 23 is internally connected to +10V through a
330 ohm resistor. An internal open collector (pin
24) returns current to ground. Current flows for 500
milliseconds whenever the DUMP button is pressed.

Page 16
Typical remote panel switch wiring
Typical remote panel LED wiring
Note
The numbers within the circles refer to pins on the 610's rear panel DB-25 connector which is
labelled REMOTE INDICATOR AND CONTROL INTERFACE.
COUGH
DUMP PROFANITY
EXIT DELAY
START DELAY
13
1
4
7
10
3 6 12 9 16 18
152 5 11 8 17
7.5
SECONDS
3.5
S
ECONDS EXIT DELAY START DELAY DUMP
PROFANITY COUGH

Page 17
C
appendix
Default Configuration
START DELAY and EXIT DELAY speed
As discussed in Chapter 5, the START DELAY button initiates the gradual increase of delay time
and the EXIT DELAY button initiates the gradual decrease of delay time. You may select be-
tween six different default configuation settings, the parameters of which are explained in detail
below. Selecting the right algorithm will optimize the match between the 610 and your particular
station's programming needs.
The amount of time required to increase delay from zero to 7 1/2 seconds (and to decrease delay
from 7 1/2 seconds to zero) may be partially program dependent (option 1 and 2), or non program
dependent fixed times (option 3,4,5, and 6). The program dependent options have the advantage
of potentially faster START and EXIT times. The fixed time options are advantageous in that the
operator knows exactly how long it will take to get to full delay and back to real time so that
broadcast programming decisions can be made based upon known quantities.
The default configuration (as shipped from the factory), which is referred to as option #1 in the
table on page 19, is partially program dependent. It takes no longer than 5 minutes to increase
from zero to 7 1/2 seconds delay (it can be much faster) and no longer than 5 minutes to go from
7 1/2 seconds delay back to zero. We recommend you try this option first. It represents the best
trade-off in terms of audio quality versus speed.
Full memory dump or half memory (3 3/4 second) dump
As discussed in Chapter 5, the DUMP PROFANITY function may be configured in either of two
ways: 1) when the DUMP PROFANITY button is pressed the entire content of the delay memory
is erased, or 2) when the DUMP PROFANITY button is pressed only 3 3/4 seconds of memory is
erased. With the second option, assuming there is a full 7 1/2 seconds in delay memory, the host
can dump one caller and put a second caller on air immediately, while the 610 automatically
continues to rebuild memory up to the 7 1/2 second maximum.
The default configuration (as shipped from the factory), which is referred to as option #1 in the
table on page 19, dumps only half of the memory each time the DUMP button is pressed. As
mentioned above, we recommend you try this option first. The two stage dump feature allows you
to bring a new caller on air immediately after dumping a previous caller without having to wait
for the delay to build from zero.

Page 18
COUGH DUMP PROFANITYSTART DELAYEXIT DELAY
Default configuration programming procedure
The 610 default configuration is set from the front panel. The process involves placing the 610 in
programming mode and selecting one of six possible configurations. It is not necessary to remove
the unit from the equipment rack, or to remove the top cover to configure or re-configure. The
unit must be powered up and not in use. Please note - the 610 cannot be configured while opera-
tional!
The configuration settings are nonvolatile. Should power go down, the last configuration setting
is maintained. To program the 610 default configuration, proceed as follows:
Step #1 - Place 610 in BYPASS mode - Use the STATUS button at the left end of the 610 front
panel to place the 610 in BYPASS mode.
Step #2 - Initiate Programming Mode - Press all four front panel lighted push buttons (EXIT
DELAY, START DELAY, COUGH, DUMP PROFANITY) and hold until all four lights come on
(approximately five seconds). When you release the buttons all four will flash, indicating that the
610 is in programming mode.
X X X X
Step #3 - Select Desired Option - While all four lights continue to flash, select your option by
pressing a button or combination of buttons as indicated in the table on the following page. The
associated light(s) flash to confirm your selection. After several seconds the light(s) will stop
flashing, indicating that the 610 has left the programming mode.
Step #4 - Return 610 to OPERATE mode - Use the STATUS button at the left end of the 610
front panel to place the 610 in OPERATE mode. The unit is now ready to operate.