Finding out actual RDS encoder’s IP address ..........................10 4.2.2 Remote configuration of the RDS encoder using internal website ....................10 4.2.3 Remote configuration of the RDS encoder using the Windows control software ................10 Device Setup...................................... 11 4.3.1 Device Setup from Magic RDS ..............................11 Setting Basic RDS Data ..................................
Please read this entire guide and familiarize yourself with the controls before attempting to use this equipment. Where not otherwise indicated, any information mentioned in relation to the RDS (Radio Data System) applies in full also to the RBDS (Radio Broadcast Data System).
The second line shows the most important status values and RDS services in a loop. Depending on the configuration, some values may be omitted. For example if the internal clock source is set for the RDS subcarrier, the PILOT value is not showed. Some events may affect the order.
Output BNC RDS signal output, modulated at 57 kHz subcarrier. If the Loop/Side switch is set to the LOOP position, the Output is a sum of the RDS signal and the signal fed to the Input BNC connector. Input BNC Optional input for synchronization to the pilot tone or for mixing the RDS signal with existing modulation signal.
If stereo encoder is used, one of its outputs (MPX or pilot tone) must be fed into the RDS encoder input to meet the synchronization requirement. Following figures show various situations and corresponding methods of connection. Use shielded cables (e.g. RG58) terminated by BNC male connectors.
FM transmitter with integrated stereo encoder. In case of mono transmission (no stereo encoder used) the RDS encoder input may be left unconnected (since there is no need of external synchronization) or it may be used for the audio signal injection in the case that the FM transmitter has only one input connector.
3.3 Power Supply The RDS encoder can be supplied from any power supply, which delivers a stabilized 12 V voltage and a current of at least 500 mA and no more than 2 A. Commonly available switching wall adapters are usually suitable for that purpose. The RDS encoder has polarity protection.
Open the Preferences (Options - Preferences) and set up the connection parameters. Choose the Serial RS232/USB connection type and select the COM port the RDS encoder is connected to. If the RDS encoder is connected via USB and was recognized correctly in Windows, you may find/change the COM port number in Windows Control Panels - System - Hardware - Device Manager or simply click on the List button.
Knowing of the RDS encoder’s IP address is necessary for its remote configuration. By default, in typical network, the RDS encoder obtains IP address automatically via DHCP function. Actual IP address can be determined from several sources, including front panel LCD display, Device Setup dialogue box in Magic RDS or your network router’s configuration website, section ‘DHCP, List of clients’.
Setting the Port 1 speed is required to maintain compatibility with older software or terminal application. Due to virtual COM port included in the USB driver the older software can access the RDS encoder the same way like in case of standard serial port. Default speed is 2400 bps.
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DHCP function contained in your network. Time synchronization Enable this option in order to keep the RDS encoder’s internal time accurate, using the SNTP server specified. Disable this option if internet is not accessible from your network or if there’s other time keeping method applied (for example via UECP commands).
4.4 Setting Basic RDS Data Before getting on-air with the RDS signal, you will need to decide on the settings to be used. The following RDS services must be set as the first. Use the Windows control software and its GUI. For more experienced users or those without a Windows PC, any terminal programme or integrated web site can be used as well.
The Alternative Frequencies are used to tell receivers what frequencies they can receive the radio station on. This facility is particularly useful in the case of car and portable radios. For this to work, each transmitter must have RDS with the same PI code.
To reach the best possible compatibility with broadcast automation systems, the RT25-2 includes a special set of compatibility commands as well as UECP support. In the systems where the RT25-2 or compatible RT25 is not directly supported (or the system is older version) the user may try to select another RDS encoder model to send text messages.
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