Studio Technologies 41 2007 - Manual (Page 7)

Model 41 User Guide Issue 2, February 2007
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
is the IFB circuit’s ability to effectively
deliver DC power over a variety of condi-
tions. Unlike other interface devices that
use a common but less-than-ideal circuit
topology, a unique IFB circuit was devel-
oped by Studio Technologies to achieve
the desired performance goals. The re-
sult is a major improvement in effectively
supporting IFB user devices over a wide
range of conditions. Connected devices
can draw up to the full rated 200 milli-
amperes of current with little drop in DC
voltage. This output voltage stability is the
key—whether drawing 50, 100, or 200 mil-
liamperes, the output will remain close to
30 volts. In practical terms this means that
reliable IFB-based cue systems can now
be deployed in more stadiums, concert
halls, or motor racing facilities than was
previously possible; longer cable runs,
more user devices, excellent performance.
Audio Monitoring
To help confirm proper installation and
ensure correct operation, the Model 41
includes a full-featured audio monitor sec-
tion. Two 5-segment LED meters provide
an indication of the audio levels as they
appear directly on the IFB output connec-
tors. This capability makes it simple to
adjust and maintain correct audio levels
so that optimal IFB performance can be
maintained. A headphone output is also
provided, allowing “real world” checking
of IFB audio quality. In addition to being
able to manually select the IFB circuit to
be monitored by the meters and head-
phone output, an “auto scan” mode is
also included. This allows each of the four
IFB circuits to be monitored in a continu-
ously repeating sequence.
DC Monitoring and Fault Shut
Down
To prevent possible damage to the Model
41’s output circuitry and connected user
devices, the DC output voltage present
on pin 2 of each IFB circuit is continually
monitored. If the voltage on an IFB circuit
falls below 24 volts its associated LED will
“flash” as an error indication. If this under-
voltage condition continues for more than
4 seconds a shut down mode will be en-
tered, turning off power to the IFB circuit.
After a 10-second interval the output will
again become active.
Compatibility
The Model 41 is compatible with virtually
every digital matrix intercom system, in-
cluding those from Clear-Com®, Drake,
Telex®/RTS®, and Riedel®. Interfacing
requires only the connection of analog
output ports from the intercom system
to the Model 41’s audio inputs. Optimal
performance might be gained by configur-
ing the nominal audio level of the intercom
system’s “virtual” IFB output ports to match
the Model 41’s +4 dBu input level. With
the Model 41’s excellent audio and power
delivery performance it’s an ideal alterna-
tive to the interface devices offered by the
intercom system vendors. Using the Model
41 the intercom system’s audio quality can
be maintained all the way to the IFB users.
The Model 41’s IFB circuits allow virtually
every IFB user device to be supported.
These include the Model 30-series listen-
only belt packs and Model 200-series
announcer console products from Stu-
dio Technologies. The 200-series units
combine a variety of microphone control,
headphone monitoring, IFB and intercom
system interfacing, and related functions