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Program switching – Tiptop Z-DSP User Manual

Page 17

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Program Switching.

The Z-DSP cartridges can contain up to 8 programs,

each program being a set of mathematical algorithms

that manipulate digital data. As mentioned above, the

ADC brings an analog signal into the digital domain by

capturing it repeatedly thus creating a sample.

The DSP allows for various operations to be applied to

a sample. It can be multiplied by some constant

number (providing gain or loss), added to another

sample (mixing), stored in memory and read out at a

later time (delay), and many other functions. By using

combinations of these operations, we can create

effects, filters (such as tone controls), compressors,

limiters, and other audio processes.

The DSP will execute the same set of algorithms on

each incoming sample, producing one sample out for

every sample in. The algorithm is a list of

mathematical operations to produce the desired

result, and one or more algorithms constitute a

program. These programs are downloaded to the

processor where the processor will continuously

execute the algorithms on the sample stream.

The Z-DSP allows you to load programs from a

cartridge by either manually pressing the yellow button

or by feeding it a pulse or voltage for automated

control. The Z-DSP has a built in sequential switch that

allows the user to switch programs forward (1.2.3...7.8)

or in reverse (8.7...3.2.1) etc. A trigger or gate signal

sent to the TRIGGER input will switch to the next higher

program (wrapping from 8 to 1). If a gate signal is

applied to the FWD/REV