ATI Technologies ATP 8500 - Manual (Page 4)

Page 4
Introduction
Functional Description
Thank you for selecting ATI’s ATP 8500 Digital Preamplifier-Processor for your audio and video home theater.
The ATP 8500 is the center of a high-end cinema and audio system. The ATP 8500 decodes Dolby Digital, DTS and
Dolby Pro Logic. Naturally, the ATP 8500 can also function as a High-End stereo preamplifier, and the digital signal
processing and conversion can be bypassed. The 7.1 channel input is provided with comprehensive volume control
facilities. This ensures that ATP 8500 will remain compatible with new multi-channel formats to appear in the future.
For audio, the ATP 8500 accepts up to six digital input sources, ten line level input sources, a tape loop and two
additional record outputs. For video, it has six S-Video and composite inputs, S-Video and composite monitor outputs,
S-Video and composite video record outputs and an S-Video monitor output without OSD (On Screen Display).
For Component Video, the ATP 8500 offers 3 sets of inputs and one set of outputs. If you are using all three types of
video (composite, S-VHS, and component), you need to connect each output from the ATP 8500 to the appropriate
connectors on the rear of your TV or monitor. You then switch between video formats with your TV’s remote (or a
“smart system” remote control).
The ATP 8500 has two main modes of function: In the normal function mode, the ATP 8500 automatically senses the
type of the incoming signal and selects the mode that gives optimal reproduction quality. The user can switch off the
automatic selection and select different post-processing modes for the incoming signals. These modes are stereo, Dolby
Pro-Logic, mono down-mixing and four Music Modes: Natural, Concert, Club and Party. If desired, the user can bypass
the digital section of ATP 8500 and connect, for example, a stereo source to the Left and Right channels of the balanced
XLR inputs.
System integration options are provided by the three 12VDC trigger outputs and one trigger input to control external
equipment and by communication with a PC or home automation system via the RS 232 serial interface (DB-9 connector).
Software Version
In order to verify which version software you have installed in the ATP 8500, push and hold the front panel power
button for a few seconds and the software version number will appear under the “ATI” name on the LCD.
Unpacking
The ATP 8500 has been carefully inspected, tested and packed before leaving the factory. Immediately upon receiving
your preamplifier-processor, inspect the carton for evidence of mishandling during shipment. Then, carefully unpack
the preamplifier-processor and inspect it for damage. Please save the shipping carton and all inner packing materials
in the event that the preamplifier-processor needs to be shipped for service or moved to a new location. Should you
discover that the preamplifier-processor has been damaged during shipping, please contact your dealer or ATI
immediately and request the name of the carrier so a written claim can be made.
THE RIGHT TO A CLAIM AGAINST A PUBLIC CARRIER CAN BE FORFEITED IF THE CARRIER IS NOT NOTIFIED
PROMPTLY IN WRITING AND IF THE SHIPPING CARTON AND PACKING MATERIALS ARE NOT AVAILABLE
FOR INSPECTION BY THE CARRIER. SAVE ALL PACKING MATERIALS UNTIL THE CLAIM HAS BEEN SETTLED.