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Sound Devices ASTRAL A20-Nexus User Manual
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Sound Devices ASTRAL A20-Nexus User Manual

Sound Devices ASTRAL A20-Nexus User Manual

8-, 12-, and 16-channel, true-diversity receiver with spectraband technology
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ASTRAL
®
A20-Nexus
8-, 12-, and 16-Channel, True-Diversity Receiver
with SpectraBand Technology
User Guide v8.10

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Summary of Contents for Sound Devices ASTRAL A20-Nexus

  • Page 1 ASTRAL ® A20-Nexus 8-, 12-, and 16-Channel, True-Diversity Receiver with SpectraBand Technology User Guide v8.10...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    A20-Nexus User Guide Contents Contents Contents ..................................... 2 Chapter 1: Introduction ............................... 5 1.1 Key Features ................................5 1.2 SpectraBand ................................6 1.3 Digital Wireless Modulation ............................6 1.4 NexLink Wireless Transmitter Control ........................7 1.5 GainForward ................................7 1.6 Safety Information ..............................8 1.7 Architectural Overview ..............................
  • Page 3 A20-Nexus User Guide Contents 11.2 Tuning Band ................................47 11.3 RF History ................................47 Chapter 12: Antenna RF Overload Indication ........................48 Chapter 13: RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) ......................49 Chapter 14: Scan Mode ..............................53 Chapter 15: AutoAssign ..............................54 Chapter 16: Audio Outputs ...............................
  • Page 4 A20-Nexus User Guide Contents 25.6 A20-Shelf ................................97 25.7 A20-2.4G Ant+Mount............................. 98 Chapter 26: Restricted Frequency Authorizations ......................99 Chapter 27: Connector Pin Assignments ........................100 Chapter 28: Specifications ............................. 102 28.1 A20-Nexus Specifications ........................... 102 28.2 A20-Outpost-NL Specifications ........................... 106 28.3 A20-Monarch Specifications..........................

  • Page 5: Chapter 1: Introduction

    Power-over-Ethernet (PoE+), its Dante audio-over-IP, and built-in web server for control via phone, tablet, or computer. Additionally, the A20-Nexus can be docked to Sound Devices 833, 888, or Scorpio mixer-recorders using the A20- QuickDock accessory, which provides convenient power, audio, and timecode connections with no additional cables.

  • Page 6: Spectraband

    A20-Nexus User Guide Introduction 1.2 SpectraBand The A20-Nexus incorporates SpectraBand, a technology that enables the A20-Nexus to tune over a super wide range of 169-1525 MHz. Tuning within this range varies by country. For instance: In the USA, the available frequency ranges are: ●...

  • Page 7: Nexlink Wireless Transmitter Control

    A20-Nexus User Guide Introduction 1.4 NexLink Wireless Transmitter Control NexLink is a proprietary 2.4 GHz bidirectional wireless data link technology that allows multiple A20 transmitters to be controlled, monitored, and timecode synced from an A20-Nexus over long distance. NexLink is designed to offer robust and reliable control over distances far exceeding that of the wireless audio transmission, even in the presence of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth interference.

  • Page 8: Safety Information

    A20-Nexus User Guide Introduction 1.6 Safety Information All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock or damage, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.

  • Page 9: Architectural Overview

    A20-Nexus User Guide Introduction 1.7 Architectural Overview The A20-Nexus takes a brand-new approach to professional audio receiver design. The A20-Nexus combines several technologies resulting in a very powerful and versatile product. The diagram below illustrates the architecture of the A20-Nexus. The first thing to note about the architecture is that there are two entire signal paths.
  • Page 10 A20-Nexus User Guide Introduction...

  • Page 11: Chapter 2: Panel Views

    A20-Nexus User Guide Panel Views Chapter 2: Panel Views 2.1 Front Panel 1 & 3: Antenna Connector A & B BNC connectors, for connecting to active, passive, or smart antennas 2: Touch Screens Color OLED array for control and monitoring. ●...

  • Page 12: Rear Panel

    A20-Nexus User Guide Panel Views 2.2 Rear Panel 1 & 8: Antenna Connector A & B Inputs / Cascade Outs ● BNC connectors for connecting active, passive, or smart antennas. ● Cascade outs for looping through the front panel antenna A & B inputs. Only available when front panel antennas are selected in the (Main Menu>RF) menu.

  • Page 13: Bottom Panel

    A20-Nexus User Guide Panel Views ● Pairing to the A20-Outpost NL remote NexLink antenna accessory. ● Connecting a USB keyboard for naming channels, quick setup files and network. The USB keyboard is active whenever the virtual keyboard screen is displayed. ●...
  • Page 14 A20-Nexus User Guide Panel Views 1: Mounting Point 1 / 4”, 20 screw hole for mounting purposes. 2: Expansion Port For docking A20-Nexus to an 8-Series mixer/recorder using the A20-QuickDock optional accessory. The expansion port provides power from the 8-Series and passes the multichannel receiver digital audio signals from A20-Nexus to the 8-Series.

  • Page 15: Chapter 3: Typical Setups

    A20-Nexus User Guide Typical Setups Chapter 3: Typical Setups The versatile A20-Nexus can be used in many types of setup and workflow. This section details just a few examples. 1. Bag Setup: Nexus docked to an 8-Series Mixer-Recorder The A20-QuickDock accessory enables the A20-Nexus to be docked to an 8-Series mixer-recorder. The bottom panel incorporates a multi-pin expansion port that connects power from the 8-Series and passes the multichannel receiver digital audio from A20-Nexus to the 8-Series.
  • Page 16 A20-Nexus User Guide Typical Setups 2. Remote Setup: Nexus located on set, close to talent Remotely locating the A20-Nexus multichannel receiver close to talent significantly reduces the chance of RF dropouts since the distance between those wearing the transmitters and the A20-Nexus receiver is minimized. A single CAT cable can be used to transport Dante audio and remote-control data between Nexus and the sound mixer.
  • Page 17 A20-Nexus User Guide Typical Setups 3. Remote Setup: Nexus located on set, close to talent, powered from PoE+ Like the previous setup, but with the Nexus being powered over PoE+. In this example, a computer is controlling Nexus via the Web App and is also sending and receiving Dante to and from Nexus.
  • Page 18 A20-Nexus User Guide Typical Setups 4. Cart Setup A typical cart setup with Nexus. As well as sending Dante audio to the mixer, the Nexus can also send audio from its AES or Analog D-Sub outputs. In this example, the Nexus Web App is running on a tablet and controlling the Nexus over Wi-Fi.

  • Page 19: Chapter 4: Quick Start

    A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Start Chapter 4: Quick Start This Quick Start guide assumes that the A20-Nexus is being used as a standalone receiver. 1. Connect a 10-18V DC power source to either or both TA4-M DC inputs. Alternatively, connect PoE+ to Ethernet port 1.
  • Page 20 A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Start RF Menu 12. If the antennas require bias-power, tap the A and B antenna gear icons to display A and B antenna settings respectively and set both their Power (Bias) settings to On. Antenna Settings The antenna icons will show a lightning bolt icon next to them when bias power is enabled.
  • Page 21 A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Start TX List 14. From the TX List, rotate the front panel knob to highlight a receiver channel, then press the knob to jump to its 1RX View from which the receiver and its NexLinked transmitter can be configured and monitored. 1RX View 15.
  • Page 22 A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Start Tip: Before assigning frequencies, it is highly recommended to perform a scan of the local RF environment using Scan Mode to identify and choose a clear Tuning Band. See RTSA > Scan Mode for further information. 19.

  • Page 23: Chapter 5: Powering

    A20-Nexus User Guide Powering Chapter 5: Powering The A20-Nexus is powered from TA4 (10-18 VDC), PoE+, from the 8-Series (via expansion port), or via XL-WPTA4 AC mains adapter (purchased separately). The control knob ring LED illuminates blue during power up, then goes out once fully booted. When the Nexus is first powered on, the last accessed RX View is displayed.

  • Page 24: Power - Dc Outputs

    A20-Nexus User Guide Powering 5.3 Power – DC Outputs The DC Out 1 and 2 can be used for powering IFB transmitters, camera hops, and other low power peripherals. Enable or disable each DC Output from the Power menu. ● When powered via its TA4 DC inputs, the A20-Nexus supplies 500 mA maximum between both DC outputs.

  • Page 25: Chapter 6: Navigating The User Interface

    A20-Nexus User Guide Navigating the User Interface Chapter 6: Navigating the User Interface The A20-Nexus is operated from its front panel triangle button, control knob, and four touch screens or remotely via its web interface. Triangle Button ● Press to power up. Press and hold to power down. ●...
  • Page 26 A20-Nexus User Guide Navigating the User Interface ○ Tap the list button to display a list of items to choose from. ○ Scroll the list of items by rotating the Control or tapping the up/down arrows, then press the Control knob to select the item and exit the list.

  • Page 27: Chapter 7: Rx Views

    A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views Chapter 7: RX Views RX Views display real-time receiver channel, transmitter signals, and status information across the four touch screens. There are several types of RX View: ● All (Displays either 8, 12 or 16 channels, depending on how many channel expansion licenses are installed) ●...

  • Page 28: 4Rx View

    A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 1. Channel Name: Displays the name of the transmitters that is currently feeding the channel. a. The transmitter name can be edited if the channel is NexLinked to an A20 transmitter. b. The transmitter name cannot be edited if an A10-TX is assigned to it. 2.
  • Page 29 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 1. Channel Name and Audio Meter: Displays the transmitter (channel) name inside an audio level meter. Tap the meter to edit the name (12-character maximum) using the virtual keyboard. a. The transmitter name can be edited if the channel is NexLinked to an A20 transmitter b.
  • Page 30 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views e. To enter a frequency, tap each frequency field then rotate the Control knob to select a value. Tap OK to store or Cancel to exit without saving. Alternatively, jump through the frequency fields by pressing the Control knob.

  • Page 31: 1Rx View

    A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 7.3 1RX View Displays a receiver channel’s received signal, audio level, control functions and status across the four OLEDs. Use the 1RX View to perform detailed control and monitoring of a receiver channel and its associated transmitter. The 1RX View has different control layouts depending on the following criteria: ●...
  • Page 32 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 7.3.1 Example 1: 1RX View when sourced from a single A20-TX transmitter in REC+RF Mode, Standalone 11 12 ● Navigate to the next or previous channel’s 1RX View by tapping the right and left arrows at the bottom of screen 4.
  • Page 33 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 4. RF Frequency: Displays the receiver channel’s frequency. a. The frequency flashes red when there is a NexLink issue. Go to the 1RX View > Gear Menu > NexLink Status screen to determine the cause of the issue. b.
  • Page 34 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views The A20-Nexus has 32 audio outputs which can be fed from up to 16 receiver channel main/aux paths. Each of these 32 audio outputs can be selected as feeds for the analog, AES, or Dante output interfaces.
  • Page 35 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views range in challenging RF environments. The Modulation setting must match between the transmitter and the Nexus for the transmitted signal to be received. If NexLinked to an A20 transmitter, the modulation setting is automatically pushed to the transmitter unless the NexLink menu’s ‘Manually set …’ toggle switch is enabled. 13.
  • Page 36 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views Example: Page 2/2 for the A20-TX Power A20 when Removed from PowerStation: A20-Mini Only. Set to ON to have an A20-Mini transmitter automatically power on when removed from a PowerStation-8M. Not available for the A20- TX transmitter.
  • Page 37 A20-Nexus User Guide RX Views 7.3.2 Example 2: 1RX View when sourced from multiple A20 transmitters in REC+RF Mode, Standalone Many of the controls are the same as those described in Example 1. However, this 1RX View displays only those functions which are common to the receiver channel and all assigned transmitters.

  • Page 38: Chapter 8: Menus

    A20-Nexus User Guide Menus Chapter 8: Menus All the A20-Nexus settings are organized into menus which are accessed via the top-level Main Menu. The triangle button cycles between the current RX view, Main Menu, and RTSA. Press the triangle button one or two times to display the Main Menu.
  • Page 39 A20-Nexus User Guide Menus NexLink NexLink-related settings including A20-Outpost-NL settings Network Network-related settings for Dante and Control, RF Mirror Mode System Various system settings. See System Menu for details. Quick Setup Load and Save Setup files for quick recall. Setups can be saved to 4 internal memory slots or to an external USB drive connected to the USB-A port.

  • Page 40: Chapter 9: Tx List

    A20-Nexus User Guide TX List Chapter 9: TX List The TX List is an inventory of all paired Astral transmitters and which RX channels, if any, they are assigned to. Up to 64 transmitters can be paired with the A20-Nexus. ‘Pairing’ is a process that establishes a NexLink relationship between the A20-Nexus and Astral transmitter.

  • Page 41: Pairing Via Usb

    A20-Nexus User Guide TX List 9.2 Pairing via USB 1. Enter the TX List by tapping the TX List icon in the Main Menu. 2. Connect the Astral transmitter’s USB-C port directly to the A20-Nexus’s rear USB-A port directly or via a USB hub.
  • Page 42 A20-Nexus User Guide TX List 8. Tap Exit once all transmitters have paired.

  • Page 43: Unpairing / Handoff

    A20-Nexus User Guide TX List 9.4 Unpairing / Handoff Unpairing or handing off a transmitter breaks its NexLink relationship with the Nexus and removes it from the TX List. Do this if you want to clear out unused transmitters from the TX List or hand off NexLink control to another Nexus, SuperNexus, or Nexus Go.

  • Page 44: Tx View

    A20-Nexus User Guide TX List a. If the selected receiver channel has no transmitters already assigned, the selected transmitter is immediately assigned to that channel. b. If the selected receiver channel already has one or more transmitters assigned to it, a popup is displayed in OLED 2 prompting whether the selected transmitter should be added to that receiver channel or replace the transmitter that is currently assigned to it.

  • Page 45: Chapter 10: Tx Group Control

    A20-Nexus User Guide TX Group Control Chapter 10: TX Group Control The TX Group menu provides access to commands that are applied simultaneously to All or custom groups of NexLinked transmitters assigned to RX channels. Tap the Group Selector Button in OLED 1 to select the Group of transmitters to which commands should be sent to.

  • Page 46: Chapter 11: Rf Menu

    A20-Nexus User Guide RF Menu Chapter 11: RF Menu The RF Menu accesses antenna, tuning band, and RF History settings. From the Main Menu, tap the RF icon to enter the RF Menu. 11.1 Antenna Setup The antenna inputs A and B can be switched as a pair between the front or rear panel BNCs. When set to front, the antenna’s matching rear BNC can be set to Cascade Out, ideal for daisy chaining units.

  • Page 47: Tuning Band

    A20-Nexus User Guide RF Menu 11.2 Tuning Band Sets the A20-Nexus’s Tuning Band and displays its trace across the rightmost screen. The Tuning Band can also be set from the RTSA. See RTSA and Architectural Overview for more information. 11.3 RF History The RF History plot is displayed in the 1RX, 4RX, and 8RX Views.

  • Page 48: Chapter 12: Antenna Rf Overload Indication

    A20-Nexus User Guide Antenna RF Overload Indication Chapter 12: Antenna RF Overload Indication The A20-Nexus indicates whether its A and B antenna inputs are approaching overload or overloading. ● Red = Overload ● Orange = Approaching overload ● Left indicator (in OLED 1) = A antenna overload status ●...

  • Page 49: Chapter 13: Rtsa (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer)

    A20-Nexus User Guide RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) Chapter 13: RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) The RTSA is a real time, visual spectrum analysis tool for assisting in frequency coordination and selection of clean RF frequencies. The RTSA can operate over the entire SpectraBand range (169 MHz to 1525 MHz). The RTSA trace represents RF signal level (in dBm) on the vertical axis and RF frequency on the horizontal axis.
  • Page 50 A20-Nexus User Guide RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) Access the expanded RTSA View by tapping the center of the single screen RTSA View or by tapping the RTSA icon in the Main Menu or bottom of screen 1 in other menus. Exit the expanded RTSA View by pressing the triangle button.
  • Page 51 A20-Nexus User Guide RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) Tuning Band List ● With the Tuning Band list open, rotate the Control knob to scroll through the list. To make it easy to select a Tuning Band with the least amount of RF congestion, the Tuning Band and its RTSA display switches ‘live’...
  • Page 52 A20-Nexus User Guide RTSA (Real Time Spectrum Analyzer) RTSA showing restricted frequency band...

  • Page 53: Chapter 14: Scan Mode

    A20-Nexus User Guide Scan Mode Chapter 14: Scan Mode Use Scan mode to view the whole Nexus 169 MHz - 1525 MHz spectrum and zoom in to see smaller sections in more detail. The complete scan trace is refreshed a few times a second. Scan mode makes it quick and easy to find and select a clean Tuning Band.

  • Page 54: Chapter 15: Autoassign

    A20-Nexus User Guide AutoAssign Chapter 15: AutoAssign Use AutoAssign to find and automatically assign multiple clean frequencies to selected RX channels. AutoAssigned RX Channel frequencies are by default, automatically sent to their assigned NexLinked transmitters. The AutoAssign Process AutoAssign performs the following steps: ●...
  • Page 55 A20-Nexus User Guide AutoAssign Note: By default, the full range of the band is selected. Note: It is not possible to select a range less than 1 MHz Note: It is not possible to set an End frequency lower than the Start frequency. AutoAssign can also be instigated from the RTSA View: 1.

  • Page 56: Chapter 16: Audio Outputs

    A20-Nexus User Guide Audio Outputs Chapter 16: Audio Outputs The A20-Nexus has 32 audio outputs which can be fed from up to 16 receiver main/aux paths. Multiple receiver channels can be summed to any audio output by assigning them to the same main or aux path from their 1RX Views. These 32 audio outputs are fed to other devices via the analog, AES, and Dante physical output interfaces.
  • Page 57 A20-Nexus User Guide Audio Outputs The A20-Nexus is identified on a Dante network by its ‘A20-Nexus Name’. The default A20-Nexus Name is A20- Nexus-[last 6 characters of the Nexus’s MAC address]. This name can be changed using Dante Controller or from the A20-Nexus’s Network menu.
  • Page 58 A20-Nexus User Guide Audio Outputs Audio Out Sync Reference The A20-Nexus’s Dante and AES outputs can be sync’d to the following sync reference sources: ● Internal ● BNC In (Word Clock or LTC). The A20-Nexus auto-detects whether the incoming signal is wordclock or timecode ●...

  • Page 59: Chapter 17: Timecode

    A20-Nexus User Guide Timecode Chapter 17: Timecode With NexLink, the A20-Nexus can simultaneously sync multiple A20 transmitters when they are set to REC only or REC+RF mode. This feature ensures zero-frame drift between multiple recording transmitters and therefore making it easy to sync with picture in post especially when the free SD-Utility software tool (https://www.sounddevices.com/sd- utility-v2-00/) is used to conform and merge the individual A20 transmitter recordings into a single polyphonic wav file.

  • Page 60: Chapter 18: Network

    A20-Nexus User Guide Network Chapter 18: Network The A20-Nexus supports both Dante and IP control. IP control permits the following functionality: ● Remote control via the web app running on any computer, tablet, or smartphone. ● RF Mirroring Mode for allowing a second A20-Nexus to mirror the RF and NexLink settings of a primary A20- Nexus.

  • Page 61: A20-Nexus Name

    A20-Nexus User Guide Network 18.2 A20-Nexus Name Tap to enter a unique name for the A20-Nexus. The A20-Nexus Name is used as the Dante Device name in a Dante network and the network device name in a Control network. The factory default A20-Nexus Name is A20-Nexus-[last 6 characters of the MAC address] Warning: Changing the A20-Nexus Name will cause the Nexus to disconnect from the Network for about a minute.

  • Page 62: Rf Mirror Mode

    A20-Nexus User Guide Network 18.5 RF Mirror Mode RF Mirror Mode allows a second A20-Nexus unit to mirror the RF and NexLink settings of a primary A20-Nexus such that if the primary unit fails or loses power, the secondary (‘Backup’) unit continues to receive and output audio seamlessly as well as taking over NexLink control of paired Astral transmitters.
  • Page 63 A20-Nexus User Guide Network Serving as Green The Primary has failed (e.g. loss of power) and the Backup has taken Primary unit over full NexLink control from the Primary. Displayed when the Primary and Backup’s country settings do not Country Yellow mismatch match.

  • Page 64: Chapter 19: Nexlink Menu

    A20-Nexus User Guide NexLink Menu Chapter 19: NexLink Menu The A20-Nexus can wirelessly control and monitor Astral A20 transmitters via NexLink over long distances. Tap the NexLink Menu Icon in the Main Menu to access NexLink settings and the paired A20-Outpost-NL list. The A20-Outpost-NL is a remote NexLink-antenna box which can be used to remotely locate the NexLink antennas closer to the action.

  • Page 65: Manually Set Frequency, Modulation, And Privacy On Transmitters

    A20-Nexus User Guide NexLink Menu 19.3 Manually Set Frequency, Modulation, and Privacy on Transmitters Determines whether A20 transmitter frequency, modulation, and privacy settings are automatically or manually sent from the A20-Nexus to the A20 transmitter over NexLink. When the toggle switch is disabled, these settings are automatically sent from A20-Nexus to the transmitters.
  • Page 66 Firmware Update: Updating A20-Outpost-NL Firmware (via USB Thumb Drive) 1. Download the latest. prg update file from the Sound Devices website. 2. Copy the .prg file to the root of am A20-Nexus formatted USB thumb drive. 3. Power the Outpost-NL via >15 W PoE or USB-C source.

  • Page 67: Nexlink Status Alerts

    A20-Nexus User Guide NexLink Menu 19.5 NexLink Status Alerts The NexLink Status View allows you to monitor NexLink communication between the A20-Nexus and A20 transmitters. This can assist in resolving NexLink issues. Access the NexLink Status View from the 1RX View Gear menu, TX View Gear menu, or, if the channel is sourced from multiple transmitters, directly from the 1RX View’s NexLink Status button.

  • Page 68: Chapter 20: System Menu

    A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu Chapter 20: System Menu Tap the System Icon in the Main menu to access System settings. The System menu includes various system settings organized over two pages. Switch to the 2nd page by tapping the ‘More >>’ button. System menu page 1 20.1 Pair to A20-Remote App (Locale Settings) The Nexus must be paired with the A20-Remote iOS /Android app to set Country and activate Frequency...

  • Page 69: Syncing A20-Remote's Country, Date, & Time Settings To A20-Nexus

    A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu Once A20-Nexus is paired, use A20-Remote to sync the mobile device’s country (determined by the mobile device’s location services) and date/time to the A20-Nexus. 20.3 Syncing A20-Remote’s Country, Date, & Time settings to A20-Nexus. ● Select the A20-Nexus in the A20-Remote app’s Device List (left pane).

  • Page 70: Frequency Authorization

    A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu Tap ‘Yes’ to select a country from the list. “Changing the country will restart the unit. Continue?” is displayed. Tap OK to restart. When manually setting the country on Nexus, be sure to also manually set the A20 transmitters to the same country using A20-Remote.
  • Page 71 A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu ● Tap Delete Authorization to remove the frequency authorization. It will be removed from the SuperNexus and paired transmitters upon next bootup of each device.

  • Page 72: Miscellaneous Settings

    A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu 20.5 Miscellaneous Settings Date/Time The A20-Nexus’s Date/Time has two purposes: 1. Sends the date/time to A20 transmitters where the value is used to set the creation time of the A20 transmitter recorded files. 2. Sets the creation date/time of A20-Nexus Quick Setup files. Tap Date/Time to bring up the Date/Time popup, then enter MM/DD/YY and HH/MM/SS.
  • Page 73 Tap to configure Astral transmitter and A20-Nexus commands to trigger DiGiCo console macros via an AstralComm control network. ‘AstralComm’ is a proprietary protocol specifically designed to trigger DiGiCo console macros from Sound Devices Astral devices. See Macros for detailed setup information.
  • Page 74 A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu Format USB Drive A USB drive connected to the USB-A port can be used for updating firmware and saving quick setup files. Before using the USB drive, it must be formatted by the A20-Nexus. ● Tap Format USB drive, then select OK in the popup.

  • Page 75: Macros - Astralcomm

    System Menu 20.6 Macros - AstralComm ‘AstralComm’ is a proprietary protocol specifically designed to trigger DiGiCo console macros from Sound Devices Astral devices. Astral transmitters, A20-HH, A20-TX and the A20-Nexus receiver can send macro commands over a network to one or more registered DiGiCo consoles to trigger their local macros.
  • Page 76 A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu 20.6.1.2 DiGiCo Console List Access the DiGiCo Console List (Macros > OLED 4) to add consoles to which macro commands will be sent. The Nexus broadcasts macro commands to all consoles in the list. Up to 10 consoles can be added. Tap Delete to remove consoles from the list.
  • Page 77 A20-Nexus User Guide System Menu Condition To send a command from the selected source, choose the paired transmitter button action, transmitter control switch position, transmitter state, or Nexus action that should trigger it. A. Transmitter Button Actions (Applies to the A20-HH Control Ring buttons) •...

  • Page 78: Chapter 21: Quick Setup Menu

    A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Setup Menu Chapter 21: Quick Setup Menu Quick Setup provides a way to save and load A20-Nexus settings. Settings are saved to internal memory slots 1-4 or to a USB thumb drive connected to the USB-A port. Save Setup ●...
  • Page 79 A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Setup Menu Gain Rear/Front Antenna Select A and B Antenna Bias Power A and B Antenna Cascade out Current Tuning Band RF History duration RF History Type NexLink Tuning Mode (Automatic or Manual) RTSA/Scan RTSA/Scan Zoom Mode RTSA/Scan Vertical dBm Scale RTSA/Scan Antenna Display Selection RTSA/Scan Antenna Display Characteristics...
  • Page 80 A20-Nexus User Guide Quick Setup Menu DC Out 1 DC Out 2 Turn On when Power is Applied Time Zone Notification settings Default Settings The Load Setup list also includes a ‘Default Settings’ option for restoring the A20-Nexus to default settings.

  • Page 81: Chapter 22: Nexus Web App

    A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App Chapter 22: Nexus Web App Remote control the A20-Nexus from anywhere in the world using the Nexus Web App, a browser-based remote-control application for the A20-Nexus that can be run on any computer, tablet, or smartphone. It duplicates virtually all the functions available from the A20-Nexus front panel.
  • Page 82 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App Web App Main View Show Mode Show Mode 1. Menu Bar: Click or tap to access the various menus. From left to right: a. A20-Nexus: Displays A20-Nexus name. Read-only. b. Home: Displays an overview of all receiver channels. c.
  • Page 83 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App d. RF: Sets Tuning Band, RF History, and antenna parameters. e. RTSA: Display the real time spectrum analyzer. Audio: Sets sync reference, sample rate, AES, analog, MADI outputs, tone, and headphone output routing. Use the RX channel metering, gain level sliders, & Global RX Output Gain to optimize audio output levels.
  • Page 84 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App h. Quick Setup: Load & save settings for quick configuration of the Nexus’s settings. See Quick Setup Menu System: Power, security, lockout, notification settings and A20-Nexus System Info. See System Menu 2. Receiver Channel: Displays a receiver channel’s various status information.
  • Page 85 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App Web App 1RX View ● Duplicates the functionality of the A20-Nexus’s front panel 1RX View. See View. ● When docked to an 8-Series, the Gain, HPF, and Polarity settings are handled on the 8-Series and as such are disabled in the Nexus web app.
  • Page 86 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App Web App RTSA View For the most part, the Web App’s RTSA duplicates the functionality of the A20-Nexus’s front panel RTSA. See RTSA. Tip: With smartphones, tablets, and computers with track pad devices, pinch vertically to zoom in/out vertically, pinch horizontally to zoom in/out horizontally and pinch diagonally to zoom in/out horizontally and vertically.
  • Page 87 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App 7. Show/Hide Peak Button: Toggle between showing or hiding the peak RSSI level for the selected Antenna. If both are selected, then it will display the highest of the two antennas. 8. Clear Peak Button: Resets and restarts the peak measurement. 9.
  • Page 88 A20-Nexus User Guide Nexus Web App 15. Peak Trace: Displays the peak RSSI level for the selected Antenna. Reset and restart by clicking the Clear Peak button.

  • Page 89: Chapter 23: Updating Firmware

    Updating Firmware Chapter 23: Updating Firmware Periodically Sound Devices issues new firmware for the Nexus receiver. Make certain to register your product at the Sound Devices website to receive firmware update notifications. Firmware is installed via a USB thumb drive inserted into the Nexus USB-A port. Download the latest firmware PRG from the Sound Devices website at https://www.sounddevices.com/download/...

  • Page 90: Chapter 25: Accessories

    A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories Chapter 25: Accessories 25.1 Included ● 2x A20-Monarch Antennas ● 2x Articulating Arm with ¼”-20 mount for Mounting A20-Monarch Antennas ● 2x 30” BNC to BNC Antenna Cables ● 2x 2.4 GHz Antennas, SMA-M ● 2x A20-2.4G Ant+Mount for Mounting to Nexus Side Panels ●...

  • Page 91: A20-Quickdock For 8-Series

    A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories 25.3 A20-QuickDock for 8-Series The A20-QuickDock enables the A20-Nexus to be docked to 833, 888, or Scorpio mixer-recorders. The bottom panel incorporates a multi-pin port that connects power from the 8-Series and passes the multichannel receiver digital audio from A20-Nexus to the 8-Series.
  • Page 92 A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories 3. Position the QuickDock mounting plate on the bottom of the A20-Nexus a. Align the four mounting plate holes (1) with the screw holes on the bottom of the A20-Nexus. Secure the mounting plate. b. To make it easy to secure the mounting plate with the four Allen screws, temporarily detach the Quick Release mechanism from the mounting plate (if not already done so) by squeezing together both the rear red levers and lifting.
  • Page 93 A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories c. Using the 1/16” Allen key, secure the mounting plate by screwing the four Allen screws into screw holes (1) d. Reattach the Quick Release mechanism. Squeeze both the rear red release levers and locate the quick release mechanism so that the multi-pin connector mates with the expansion port on the A20- Nexus.
  • Page 94 A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories b. Screw in the two short mounting pillars into screw holes (3). Note: For Scorpio, use the two screw holes just below and either side of the bottom 16-pin expansion port. (not needed for Scorpio) 5. To mount the A20-Nexus with attached A20-QuickDock to the top of the 8-series: a.
  • Page 95 A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories c. Finally, slide the A20-Nexus’s front-right black latch over the front-right 8-series mounting pillar. 6. To undock the A20-Nexus from the 8-Series, a. Slide the A20-Nexus’s front-right black latch off the 8-Series mounting pillar. b. Squeeze both the front red release levers and lift the A20-Nexus from the front. c.

  • Page 96: A20-Outpost-Nl

    Accessories 25.4 A20-Outpost-NL The A20-Outpost-NL is a remote NexLink-antenna box. NexLink is Sound Devices proprietary long-distance remote control of Astral transmitters. This game-changing system allows remote control of all parameters on the transmitters – and has a distance far exceeding the RF audio link. Since NexLink operates at 2.4 GHz, its antennas cannot be remote-mounted more than a few inches due to cable loss –...

  • Page 97: A20-Monarch Antenna

    A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories 25.5 A20-Monarch Antenna The A20-Nexus ships with two A20-Monarch, omnidirectional, wide-bandwidth (470-1525 MHz) antennas. These antennas provide uniform coverage and gain across the exceptionally wide SpectraBand tuning range of A20-Nexus. Each antenna is paired with a multi-function clamp and articulating arm, as well as an RG58 BNC-M to BNC-M cable (30 in.) When purchased as a separate accessory, the A20-Monarch antenna also includes an RG174 BNC-M to SMA-M cable (18 in.)

  • Page 98: A20-2.4G Ant+Mount

    A20-Nexus User Guide Accessories 25.7 A20-2.4G Ant+Mount These easy-to-install adjustable antenna brackets are perfect for when the A20-Nexus is used in a bag and allow the 2.4 GHz antenna to be mounted on either side panel towards the front of the A20-Nexus, extending the 2.4GHz antenna out of the top of the bag for better NexLink range.

  • Page 99: Chapter 26: Restricted Frequency Authorizations

    Sound Devices encourages all wireless operators to obtain a Part 74 license, and specifically to make sure applicable parts of the 600 MHz and 950 MHz range are included with their license application. This can help show an operator is aware of the available spectrum and is utilizing it responsibly.

  • Page 100: Chapter 27: Connector Pin Assignments

    A20-Nexus User Guide Connector Pin Assignments Chapter 27: Connector Pin Assignments Connector Pin Assignments Notes 1–Output 8 signal (+) 2–Output 8 Ground 3–Output 7 signal (-) 4–Output 6 signal (+) 5–Output 6 Ground 6–Output 5 signal (-) 7–Output 4 signal (+) 8–Output 4 Ground 9–Output 3 signal (-) 10–Output 2 signal (+)
  • Page 101 A20-Nexus User Guide Digital Out 1 Ground 20– Unused 21–Unused 22–Unused 23–Unused 24–Unused 25–Unused Center pin - signal Unbalanced (LTC/WCK) input Sleeve - ground 75-ohm connector recommended Center pin - signal (Front/Rear 50-ohm connector recommended Sleeve - ground Antenna) Center pin - signal SMA-F ports for connecting 2.4 GHz (2.4 GHz, Rear Sleeve - ground...

  • Page 102: Chapter 28: Specifications

    A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications Chapter 28: Specifications Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. For the latest information available on all Sound Devices products, visit our website: www.sounddevices.com 28.1 A20-Nexus Specifications Patents: The A20-Nexus is protected by US patents US10678294B2, US20190166523A1, International patent WO2018022209A1, and several patents pending.
  • Page 103 A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications Output Level ● Line-level: +20 dBu for 0 dBFS ● Mic-level: -20 dBu for 0 dBFS Tone Generator ● 1 kHz tone, adjustable from -20 to 0 dBFS Audio Output Sample Rate ● 44.1, 48, or 96 kHz Digital Audio Output ●...
  • Page 104 A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications Levels ● DC input, 10 to 18V in, 2A minimum at 10 VDC ● 11 W idle, default configuration ● Extra power passed through for USB power, active antenna power, and DC output power ● USB-A: 5V, 500 mA output; supports keyboards, thumb drives, A20 transmitters, and USB hubs ●...
  • Page 105 A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications 28.1.1 A20-Nexus Threaded Holes...

  • Page 106: A20-Outpost-Nl Specifications

    A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications 28.2 A20-Outpost-NL Specifications Network Connections ● 1x RJ45 port and 1x SFP port: For NexLink control connection to SuperNexus and Outpost-NL firmware updates NexLink Protocol ● 2.4 GHz, proprietary frequency-hopping backlink control of transmitters over long distance Connections ●...

  • Page 107: A20-Monarch Specifications

    A20-Nexus User Guide Specifications 28.3 A20-Monarch Specifications Frequency range ● 470 MHz - 1600 MHz Gain ● 2.2 dBi Pattern ● Omnidirectional Return Loss ● Better than 15 dB across entire 470 - 1600 MHz range Mounting Threads ● ¼”-20 Dimensions (H x W x D) ●...

  • Page 108: Chapter 29: Note On Rf Interference

    Chapter 29: Note on RF Interference Sound Devices does not guarantee the absence of any interfering spurs across all bands in all situations. Some small spurs can originate within the Nexus, and others can come from many sources (Ethernet, AES/EBU interconnects, external mixer/recorders, USB drives, USB keyboards, etc.).

  • Page 109: Chapter 32: Legal Notices

    Product specifications and features are subject to change without prior notification. Read and fully understand this manual before operation. Copyright© 2022 Sound Devices, LLC. All rights reserved. This product is subject to the terms and conditions of a software license agreement provided with the product and may be used in accordance with the license agreement.
  • Page 110 A20-Nexus User Guide Legal Notices FCC Conformity NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 111 1) ce dispositif ne peut pas causer d’interférences, et 2) ce dispositif doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un mauvais fonctionnement de l’appareil. WEEE Statement If you wish to discard a Sound Devices product in Europe, contact Sound Devices (England) for further information.

  • Page 112: Chapter 33: Declaration Of Conformity

    Chapter 33: Declaration of Conformity Manufacturer’s Name: Sound Devices, LLC Manufacturer’s Address: E7556 State Road 23 and 33 Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA We, Sound Devices LLC, declare under our sole responsibility that the product Product Name: A20-Nexus Model Number: A20-Nexus...
  • Page 113 A20-Nexus User Guide Declaration of Conformity Post Office Box 576 E7556 State Rd. 23 and 33 Reedsburg, Wisconsin 53959 USA support@sounddevices.com +1608.524.0625 main 800.505.0625 toll free (U.S. only) www.sounddevices.com...

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