Omnia 6FM Installation And Operation Manual
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Omnia 6FM Installation And Operation Manual

Broadcast audio processor
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OMNIA – 6FM
Broadcast Audio Processor
Installation and Operation Manual
Version 1.00a
January 2002
Omnia ● 2101 Superior Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114 USA
TEL: +1 216.241.7225 ● FAX: +1 216.241.4103 ● Email info@omniaaudio.com
www.omniaaudio.com
Omnia Europe ● Johannistrabe 6 D-85354 Freising Germany
TEL: +49 8161 42467 ● FAX +49 8161 42402 ● Email: europe@omniaaudio.com
www.omniaaudio.com

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  • Page 1 OMNIA – 6FM Broadcast Audio Processor Installation and Operation Manual Version 1.00a January 2002 Omnia ● 2101 Superior Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114 USA TEL: +1 216.241.7225 ● FAX: +1 216.241.4103 ● Email info@omniaaudio.com www.omniaaudio.com Omnia Europe ● Johannistrabe 6 D-85354 Freising Germany TEL: +49 8161 42467 ●...
  • Page 2 Manual Update Notification Due to the dynamic nature of audio processing products, this manual and all future manuals, will be considered as 'preliminary documentation'. Audio Processing is an art form that we take very seriously. As part of our dedication to this science, we will continue to update both the product and its documentation based on continued research, field experience and valued customer input.
  • Page 3 January, 2002 Greetings! It’s with great pleasure to offer you our ultimate audio processor…Omnia-6fm! But first, I must share my gratitude with you as well. This second-generation FM processor has evolved from the original Omnia digital processors, and the worldwide acceptance of those has been quite humbling for me, to say the least. As I write this, Omnia processors are now deployed by so many leading broadcasters throughout the world that when looking at the list, I am overwhelmed by the recognition that my (originally small) project to improve the sound of radio has gathered.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS Greetings Safety Instructions User Interface Tutorial, cont. Hazard / Warning Labels Input & Output Submenus Notices Encode Specifications Schedule Warranty viii System QuickStart Setup Guide Menu Selections Preset Preset List Choose (preset) 1 – INSTALLATION Modify (preset) Save Current (preset) Omnia 6-fm Pre-installation Tasks Save Current As...
  • Page 5 Parameter Editing Adjusting the Wideband AGC Security Config Adjusting AGC Crossovers Adjusting Multiband AGC's Adjusting the AGC Mixer 3-THE OMNIA-6FM AND AUDIO Adjusting The Enhancers PROCESSING Adjusting the Limiters Crossover Adjusting the Multiband Limters Adjusting the Final Mixer (Lim Mix) 64...
  • Page 6 Connecting via Modem Appendix A Custom modem initialization strings 81 CE Declaration of Conformity Using an Ethernet based connection Establishing a Remote Session Terminal Programs/Direct Connection Trigger Script Editor Dry Contact Closures Applying Control Voltages Use of Trigger Scripts Paras and Sysparas Using the Editor Script Command Definitions Dayparts...

  • Page 7: Safety Instructions

    S A F E T Y I N S T R U C T I O N S Read All Instructions. All safety and operating 13. Overloading. Do not overload AC wall outlets, instructions must be read before operating the extension cords, or integral convenience outlets as product.

  • Page 8: Hazard / Warning Labels

    HAZARD / WARNING LABELS The Exclamation The Lightning Flash With Point Arrowhead symbol, within an symbol, within an equilateral triangle, alerts the equilateral triangle, user to the presence of alerts the user to the uninsulated dangerous voltage presence of important within the product's enclosure operating and that may be of sufficient...
  • Page 9 CANADA WARNING – This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant les limits applicables aux brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications de Canada.

  • Page 10: Notices

    NOTICES All versions of compatibility, trademarks, etc. of hardware and software products not made by Omnia, but mentioned in this manual or other accompanying material, are informational only. Omnia makes no endorsement of any particular product for any purpose, nor claims any responsibility for its operation or the accuracy of its presentation. Warranty registration and Software Updates Omnia 6's operation is almost entirely determined by software.

  • Page 11: Specifications

    Omnia 6fm Specifications As of January 2002 – Version 6.01 Software Note: All measurements made with the supplied "FactTest2" preset, which is available in the Preset Submenu. Due to the nature of multi-band gain control and clipper algorithms used, the subjective sound quality of any audio processor bears little relationship to its measured electrical performance.
  • Page 12 A/D Conversion: Crystal Semiconductor CS5360, 24 bit 128x oversampled delta sigma converter. Linear-phase, 21.7 kHz anti-aliasing lowpass filter, with 0.0025dB maximum passband ripple. Analog Audio Output Configuration: Left/Right Discrete Stereo. Electronically balanced, floating and symmetrical. Flat or pre-emphasized response for either 50 or 75 microseconds.

  • Page 13: Composite Outputs

    External Sync Range: Accepts sample rates from 32kHz to 96 kHz. Used for synchronization of the Digital Output signal to an external reference. Automatically accepts sample rates between 32 and 96 kHz. Composite Outputs Composite Baseband Outputs Configuration: Two electrically independent outputs. Software based level adjustment. Source Impedance: 10 ohms or 75 ohms, internal jumper-selectable.

  • Page 14: Power Requirements

    Direct Serial: Standard RS-232, no hardware handshaking employed. Baud rates of 9,600, 19,200, and 57,600 supported. TCP/IP Ethernet: Emulates a Telnet session. Connectors: RS-232 port, EMI-suppressed DB-25 female connector. Industry standard EMI suppressed RJ-45 connector for Ethernet. Remote Control Trigger Interface Configuration: Eight (8) inputs, RS-232 level-compatible.

  • Page 15: Warranty

    Warranty his Warranty covers "the Products," which are defined as the various audio equipment, parts, software and accessories manufactured, sold and/or distributed by TLS Corp., d/b/a Omnia (hereinafter "Omnia"). With the exception of software-only items, the Products are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of receipt by the end-user.

  • Page 16: Installation

    Omnia 6 Quick-Start Setup Guide We know that you're probably in a hurry to get on the air with your new Omnia 6. If you have technical expertise and previous knowledge of audio processor fundamentals, using the following Seven-Point Quick-Start Checklist will get you up and running as quickly as possible. Please refer to the remainder of the Operating Guide for additional information.

  • Page 17: Omnia 6-Fm Pre-Installation Tasks

    Chapter 1 – Pre-installation We believe the Omnia-6fm is the easiest processor to install in its class, but please take a few minutes to read through this chapter before proceeding with the installation. Pre Installation Tasks This section offers common procedures for installing your new Omnia-6fm processor. Note that there are additional installation and operation tips presented in Chapter 4 that may pertain to your specific installation.
  • Page 18 Important Note 1: The PC Cards used in the Omnia-6fm are not generic PCMCIA cards that can be bought in any local computer store. They are cards that are specified by Omnia specifically for this product. If you need a backup card, please contact Omnia Customer Support to purchase an additional card.

  • Page 19: Installation And Connections

    Rack Mounting The Omnia-6fm requires 3RU (5.25" [37 mm]) of rack space. Rack mount the unit using four rack screws. If only two screws are going to be used, they should be in the bottom holes in the Omnia front panel. No other two-screw...

  • Page 20: Audio Inputs

    During system power-up, the front panel LCD screens display several status screens while the operating software and DSP code is loaded. Once the main Omnia-6fm Main Menu is shown on the right screen, and the Meter Screen is shown on the left display, the unit is ready for use.

  • Page 21: Composite Outputs

    SCA Input (BNC) Any SCA signal above 53 kHz can be added to the composite outputs of the Omnia-6fm by connecting the SCA signal to the SCA INPUT connector. The SCA signal is mixed in the analog domain directly into both composite outputs.

  • Page 22: Interface Connection

    This connector is the interface to the Omnia's internal trigger script function. Eight of the pins are “trigger” inputs and the remaining pin is the ground reference. The trigger inputs can be used to dynamically alter the Omnia-6fm’s operation in response to logic signal transitions at the interface connection. There is a unique response to each trigger input, that is, both "go-high"...

  • Page 23: Powering Up

    Powering Up When the Omnia-6fm is first turned on, an operating system start up screen is displayed on the left-hand display. Under normal conditions, it should appear as: If the Network Configuration has been changed from the factory defaults, a second screen will appear when the unit does a warm boot to load the network parameters: After approximately ten seconds, audio will be present from the analog, composite and headphone outputs.
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  • Page 25: The Omnia 6 User Interface

    Chapter 2 The Omnia 6 User Interface Now that your Omnia-6fm is rack-mounted, connected to a program audio source, and turned on, you’re ready to learn how to operate it! This chapter covers the Graphical User Interface, your window into the Omnia-6fm processor.

  • Page 26: Using The Jog Wheel

    Using the Jog Wheel The main user control for the Omnia 6 is the large, easy to use jog wheel with its integral push-switch. Using the control is both intuitive, and efficient, making it easy to navigate the menu structure of the Omnia 6.

  • Page 27: Level Meters And Processing Bargraphs

    The thirteen vertical bargraphs in the lower half of the Meter Display show the processing activity in real time within the Omnia-6fm. The first vertical meter (labeled W) represents the processing activity in the Wideband AGC section. The five vertical "AGC" meters show the processing activity of each of the AGCs in the multi-band AGC section.

  • Page 28: Main Menu Display

    Output, System. Below the Main Menu in the lower left corner of the display is a multipurpose "Help Text" box. The Omnia-6fm menu system has been designed to be intuitive and simple to use, with a minimum of layered submenus. Most operating parameters are found on one of the seven main menus.

  • Page 29: X" Close Window Icon

    In all submenus with adjustable parameters, rotating the jog-wheel sequentially highlights each control or selection choice, along with the Home icon and the Headphone level button. In the Process submenu, the parameter adjustment windows have an “X” Close Window icon in the upper right corner (as shown in the AGC Mixer window below).

  • Page 30: Remote Control Via Network Indicator

    Remote Control Session via Network Indicator An exclamation mark inside a yellow triangle will show up in the lower left corner of the Main Menu screen when a Network remote session is in progress. A remotely connected network session has priority over local control of the front panel, so during a Network remote session the Main Menu will be grayed...

  • Page 31: User Interface Tutorial

    User Interface Tutorial – Input Source Selection and Peak Level Setting The following two exercises are a useful introduction to the user interface. Start from the Main Menu (as displayed when the unit is first turned on). The first exercise changes a parameter selection (the Input Source selection): 1.
  • Page 32 6. Rotate the jog-wheel until the Home icon is highlighted. Click to return to the main menu. All of the Omnia-6fm’s software parameters are set in a similar fashion using the jog-wheel in Highlight Mode to scroll through menu items and parameters. Clicking a highlighted item selects it; when that item is a control, the jog-wheel adjusts the value or level.

  • Page 33: The Menu Tree - Part One

    The Menu Tree The menu tree for the Omnia-6fm is shown in the following two pages. The seven main menu items are bold for clarity, with their branching parameter choices shown in the order in which they are encountered in the menu system. The first four menu options and their branches are shown below:...

  • Page 34: The Menu Tree - Part Two

    The next three Menu Options are shown below along with their associated branches: Omnia 6 Use and Installation Guide – Version 1.00a...

  • Page 35: Menu Items

    Appearing here is a list of all of the presets stored on the Omnia PC Card. Highlighting a Preset and clicking "Choose" allows that preset to be loaded into the Omnia-6fm, instantly setting the various processing parameters. You may also compare and modify settings between presets, save the current processor settings to an existing or new user preset, and rename or delete user presets using options found on this submenu.

  • Page 36: Input & Output Submenus

    Since you cannot build a preset from scratch, a factory preset must be used as a starting point for creating your “signature sound.” Each signal processor section (from the Wideband AGC to the Clippers) can be individually selected, and its parameters adjusted as required. Once the processing is adjusted, the Preset menu "Save As"...

  • Page 37: Encode

    Encode This submenu contains the adjustments for the DSP based Stereo Generator. The Output Levels for Composite Outputs 1 and 2, the Stereo Pilot Injection Level and Phase, and the SCA Injection Level and Stereo Separation parameters are adjustable here. Like the Input and Output menu choices, these menu items are typically adjusted during installation, and are saved as a System Configuration (see...

  • Page 38: System

    System Submenu An important selection under this submenu, Save to Card, makes a copy of the Omnia-6fm system configuration, and stores it on the rear-panel PC Card. If a power failure should occur, the unit restarts using the last saved operational settings. This means all Input, Output, Encode and System Menu settings are restored, as well as the previously running processing settings.

  • Page 39: Preset

    Preset List Lists all of the presets, factory and user, that are on the PC Card inserted into the memory card slot on the rear panel of the Omnia-6fm. Choose To load a preset, highlight the Choose option to move the highlighting to the Preset List, then rotate the jog wheel to highlight the desired preset name and click.

  • Page 40: Save Current As

    Process This submenu is a graphical block-diagram representation of the signal flow through the Omnia-6fm. Each block-diagram icon, when highlighted and clicked, opens up a parameter window that pertains to that part of the Omnia-6fm processing circuitry.

  • Page 41: Input

    This control, located after the input bargraph meters, calibrates the nominal internal level of the Omnia- 6fm to match the reference level of your air chain. This control may need to be adjusted if your station's audio reference level is something other than +4dBu. It also may need adjusting if the input audio feeding the Omnia6-fm is pre-processed to reduce the peak-to-average ratio, or if you wish to bypass the WB AGC and have too little gain.

  • Page 42: Input Source

    Input Mode Selects how input audio is routed and processed by the Omnia-6fm. Highlight and click on the parameter selection to set the mode. The selected Mode is shown with a dot in the box next to the name. The factory default selection is Stereo.

  • Page 43: Pre-Emphasis

    Pre-Emphasis For the transmission side of FM broadcasting, some form of high-frequency boost, or pre-emphasis is used. The most commonly used values of pre-emphasis are 50 and 75 µs (microseconds). For North and South America, 75 µs is used. In Europe, Australia and New Zealand, 50 µs is employed. The factory default pre- emphasis setting is 75 µs.

  • Page 44: De-Emphasis

    De-Emphasis The Left/Right outputs are pre-emphasized under normal circumstances, such as when feeding an outboard stereo generator or discrete microwave studio-transmitter link. The same applies when feeding a digital exciter from the AES/EBU output. These outputs can also be de-emphasized for installations that require a flat frequency response, as is the case when feeding other types of studio to transmitter links.

  • Page 45: Multiplex Power Limiting

    Multiplex Power Limiting In certain parts of the world, the power of the overall multiplex signal must be controlled to prevent or reduce adjacent channel interference to closely spaced stations. The currently enforced standard falls under the ITU BS-412 regulations. The Omna6-fm has a very effective Multiplex Power Limiter algorithm that may be enabled to comply with these regulations.

  • Page 46: Encode

    Encode Six parameters are set under this submenu: Composite Output 1 Composite Output 2 SCA Level Pilot Injection Pilot Phase Stereo Separation Encode Submenu Composite Output 1 & 2 These controls individually set the level at the two separately buffered rear-panel composite outputs. The output level adjustment range is between 1.25 and 9.5 volts peak-peak.

  • Page 47: Pilot Phase

    Pilot Phase This parameter sets the phase relationship between the 19 kHz pilot and the 38 kHz suppressed carrier. The system default is 0.0º. The performance of the DSP based digital stereo generator is theoretically perfect, however should the phase need adjustment in order to offset time domain errors in the overall transmission system, the pilot phase can be adjusted ±32º, in 2º...

  • Page 48: New

    Used to create a new Schedule. Highlight and click on New to open the Modify Schedule window and create a new Daypart Schedule. Modify and Remove Used to modify or remove an existing schedule. Highlight and click on the Schedule List, then highlight and click on the Daypart Schedule you wish to modify.

  • Page 49: System

    Preset Name when the Omnia6-fm has been locked. The I/O metering continues to function normally, and the currently running Preset Name is replaced by the text "System is Locked". It is advisable to change the passwords once the Omnia-6fm is installed. Passwords are case sensitive and can contain up to ten characters.

  • Page 50: Backlight

    Backlight This setting determines the time it takes for the LCD screens to turn off after the last time the jog wheel has been used. The selections are 1 min, 5 min, 15 min or 1 hour. To preserve the life of the LCD backlight, there is no option available for continuous operation.

  • Page 51: Lock Unit

    Note: You can only unlock the Omnia-6fm at the same or higher access level than it was at when it was locked. In other words, if the unit was locked while at Level 3, then only the Level 3 password will unlock the unit.

  • Page 52: Network

    Network Opens up a window to set the Ethernet communications protocols (IP address, default Gateway and Subnet Mask info). Make sure to Save Changes before exiting this window. There are also options to allow you to Save Changes to the network settings, Reboot Display (front panel only), and send a Test Broadcast packet out to the connected...

  • Page 53: Reboot Display

    Reboot Display After network changes have been saved in the above step, the front panel must be rebooted in order to make the changes active in the network hardware. Test Broadcast The Test Broadcast button sends a series of UDP packets out over the network interface. The message contained in the packets is "An Omnia Broadcast Datagram".
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  • Page 55: 3-The Omnia-6Fm And Audio Processing

    Chapter 3 The Omnia-6fm and Audio Processing This section presents an overview of the Omnia-6fm processor. Refer to the block diagram shown on the Process submenu to provide a functional order to the various processing sections. Note: More detailed technical information about the audio processing employed in Omnia-6 can be found in the Technical Papers section on the Omnia web site (www.omniaaudio.com).

  • Page 56: Wideband Agc

    Each of the four crossover frequencies has five user-adjustable settings. Enhance: This section contains the Bass EQ and Stereo Enhancement controls. In the Omnia-6fm's unique signal processing architecture, these controls are placed in their optimal position — between the multi-band...

  • Page 57: Deep Bass Eq

    AGC and Limiter sections. Deep Bass EQ: For those who demand thunderous bass. Up to 12 dB of “thunder” can be added to shake your listeners’ walls! This is not merely a simple bass EQ, but a sophisticated concept which considers the time alignment of low frequencies as they pass through the entire system.

  • Page 58: Composite Clipper

    New in Omnia-6fm is a pilot notch filter to protect the pilot region from clipper artifacts. The wide, deep notch helps the stereo pilot region stay immaculately clean, reducing multipath, and keeping receiver's stereo decoders firmly locked to your signal.

  • Page 59: Processor Location

    If a composite STL is used, the multiplexed output of the Omnia-6fm can be connected directly to the STL. At the transmitter location, the composite receiver can be directly connected to the exciter.

  • Page 60: Digital Stl Use

    If the Digital STL employs a data reduction codec (compression), we strongly recommend that the Omnia-6fm be located at the transmitter site. (See “Pre-Emphasis: Where To Insert” below.) If the Digital STL is a linear system without data compression, we still recommend placing the processor at the transmitter site.

  • Page 61: Studio Microphone Processing

    Proper system audio operating levels are a must! It is important to make certain that the input and output levels of the Omnia-6fm are set appropriately. If they are set too low, you will compromise the signal to noise ratio of the system. If they are set too high, you may run out of headroom and encounter clipping on signal peaks.

  • Page 62: Omnia-6Fm Connections

    The exciter input should be set for flat input, which means that the exciter is not adding any pre- emphasis to the input signal. In the Omnia-6fm Input menu set the Pre-emphasis "ON" at the correct value for your country. In the Output Menu, set the De-emphasis option to Off. This ensures that output from the processor is now pre-emphasized according to the standard in use in your country.

  • Page 63: Pre-Emphasis: Where To Insert

    Finally, The New Frontier” on the Omnia Tech Info web page at www.omniaaudio.com . When using the AES/EBU outputs to drive a digital STL or exciter, your Omnia-6fm’s sampling rates must be set to match the lowest internal operating sampling rate used in any device which follows the Omnia-6 in the audio chain.
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  • Page 65: 5-Fine Tuning Your Sound

    Be careful. Having said all of this, we firmly believe that Omnia-6fm will get you closer to your ideal than any other processor or combination of processors available today. It is definitely capable of generating moment-to- moment loudness;...

  • Page 66: Adjustment Procedure

    But please don’t try to install the Omnia- 6fm in between other major projects or during the week your boss or your assistant is on vacation. Make certain in advance that the staff members who helped you set your objectives will be available to consult with you when you adjust the processing parameters.

  • Page 67: Meter Displays

    The bargraphs for the Limiter section provide a wealth of information about the peak control in Omnia- 6fm. The limiter algorithms automatically adapt the style of peak control being employed on a moment-by- moment basis. This can be deduced if the metering is studied over time. During normal operation, the limiter indicators will have a dynamic “bounce”...

  • Page 68: Interpreting The Meters

    Peak value of gain reduction Gain reduction meter (typical) Since the processing algorithms in Omnia-6fm 'adapt' to the audio, it is capable of performing many different processing functions at different times. The processing display bargraphs may appear to indicate different kinds of operation with different program material. This behavior is primarily based on dynamic range differences in the applied program material.

  • Page 69: About Factory Presets

    When you Choose a preset, the control values are loaded into the DSP structure, reconfiguring the Omnia-6fm’s processing. Omnia/Telos does not warrant in any way that these presets are de facto standards for the format names that we used when we designed them.

  • Page 70: Loading A Preset

    We've enjoyed giving you that power, and we hope that you enjoy using it! A special preset, “PROOF OF PERF” can be loaded in order to stop all audio processing in the Omnia-6fm, while still passing signal through all of the processing sections. When this preset is recalled, the AGC, Limiter and Clipper thresholds are raised so that no signal processing takes place.

  • Page 71: Parameter Editing

    Once you have highlighted the desired preset name, just click once to load that preset into the Omnia-6fm. To exit the preset selection list, rotate the jog wheel counter-clockwise until the <Exit> option is highlighted. Then click once.

  • Page 72: Adjusting The Wideband Agc

    blocks are highlighted. Clicking the jog-wheel opens up the parameter window for that processing block. Parameter adjustment is accomplished using the previously described method—clicking the parameter to select it, turning the jog wheel to adjust it, and then clicking to save the selection and change the jog-wheel back to Highlight Mode.
  • Page 73 Attack and Release time constants. As the attack/release times are modified, the system also scales the Make-Up Gain time constants. Use less makeup gain for processing more faithful to the source material; use more makeup gain for greater loudness and “density.” The Gate Threshold control sets the level at which gating of the AGC occurs, which “freezes”...

  • Page 74: Adjusting Agc Crossovers

    AGC Crossover (XO) The audio signal from the WB AGC section is divided into five user-adjustable frequency bands within the AGC XO section. The crossover frequency points for the five bands are controlled by the four controls along the bottom of the window. The various crossover choices are: Low Freq.

  • Page 75: Adjusting Multiband Agc's

    Multiband AGC Windows Each of the multiband AGC's has its own set of controls similar to those in the Wideband AGC section. The four controls in these windows, Attack, Release, Make-Up Gain and Gate Threshold, and the two parameter selections, RTP Speed and RTP Level, function like those in the Wideband AGC window. Adjustment strategies are similar, however in the mutiband AGC sections adjustments are on a "per- frequency band"...

  • Page 76: Adjusting The Agc Mixer

    value is –10dB. Keep in mind that the RTP function must be activated for this parameter to be relevant. Note also that for some presets, small changes we made to the compression ratios will affect the displayed value of the RTP. For instance, if you set the RTP gain value to "10" but notice that the band gain recovers to –12 when gated, it is because we have set a slightly higher ratio for that band.

  • Page 77: Adjusting The Enhancers

    Omnia is known for, and it can do so without making the sound muddy. It serves to greatly complement the Omnia-6fm’s clear and open high end to provide a well- balanced, competitive, CD-like sound that is both powerful on the dial, as well as pleasing to the ear.

  • Page 78: Adjusting The Limiters Crossover

    This is normal and accounts partially for the improved clarity in the Omnia-6fm. You will notice brief, fast bursts of significant gain reduction on these bands especially on bright dynamic program material and vocal sibilants.

  • Page 79: Adjusting The Multiband Limters

    Multiband Limiter Windows Limiter Submenu – SL Limiter shown as example The controls in these adjustment windows are similar in function to the previously described AGC stages. However, there are only four controls for the limiters. The Attack and Release controls work similarly to the AGC sections, but are of course much faster on overall action.

  • Page 80: Adjusting The Final Mixer (Lim Mix)

    Final Mixer (Mix) Limiter Mixer (final mixer) This is the final summing point for each of the multiband limiter sections before the signal reaches the final clipper. Care should be used when adjusting this section, as too much level from any particular band could cause an excessive amount of clipping distortion to that range of frequencies.

  • Page 81: Adjusting The Clippers

    Clippers (Clip) Clipper Submenu Bass Clip Threshold: Limiter bands 1 & 2 have their own clipper and time-aligned low-pass filter in order to reduce IM distortion in the main clipper. The Bass Clip Threshold control sets the threshold of the bass clipper referred to the clip level of the main clipper.

  • Page 82: Adjusting The Mpx Power Limiter

    from affecting the stereo pilot and SCA regions. Adjusting and Using the BS-412 Multiplex Power Limiter The Output Menu contains controls for the Omnia 6's proprietary ITU BS-412 Multiplex Power Limiter algorithm. This algorithm is an enhancement of a DSP based design first pioneered by Frank Foti as an enhancement for the original Omnia FM product.
  • Page 83 The graph below was captured from an Audemat DFMA2 measuring instrument. It shows the analysis of a 30-minute segment of audio as processed by the Omnia 6 with the ITU BS-412 Multiplex Power limiter enabled and adjusted to the 0.0dB setting. Note that at no time during the measurement interval does the average power exceed the zero dB reference line.

  • Page 84: Saving, Naming, And Deleting Presets

    The Omnia-6fm PC Card has the capacity to store up to 75 User Presets. Preset Submenu with save options When processing adjustments are completed, a choice should be made to either save the changes over the existing preset (if it's not a factory preset) or create a new User Preset.

  • Page 85: Renaming And Deleting Presets

    Omnia-6fm has changed all of that! It's been designed to look at the incoming audio, and know how to make your station consistently loud on the dial, and without the artifacts or grunge created by your current...

  • Page 86: Quality Versus Loudness

    processor. Omnia-6 makes loudness an effortless exercise for all formats. One more confession. It’s also OK for your station to not sound loud, yet sound incredibly musical and grunge-free, because the Omnia-6 has given you the choice. Omnia6-fm is a system that maximizes the audio quality of your signal, yet at the same time satisfies your competitive requirements.

  • Page 87: Adding More "Detail" To The Sound

    • Increase the Drive to each section using the controls in the Limiter XO screen. • Increase the Release time settings in each band so that they operate faster. • Set the Hold threshold to a lower value. 3. Drive the Clipper sections harder. 4.

  • Page 88: Making Sound Equalization Changes

    • Reduce the Release time to operate slower. • Reduce the amount of Make-Up Gain. Backing off the clipping sections first will allow the processing to retain a level of competitive loudness while enhancing quality, and the overall dynamic texture will be affected less. Start with reducing the Clipper amount in 0.5 dB steps.
  • Page 89 might be noticed on midrange/presence frequencies whenever a sustained bass note is present. An example of this would be a strong bass signal “underneath” a sustained vocal passage. The vocal passage will begin to sound as if it “warbles” a little bit. This is a sign that the over-processed bass energy is pushing the vocal frequencies in and out of the clipper unnecessarily.
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  • Page 91: Remote Control Software

    Chapter 6 Remote Control Software The Omnia Remote Control software is a Windows (Windows 95, NT 4.0, or higher) software program that allows remote access to the Omnia-6fm processor adjustment using any PC running the aformentioned © versions of Microsoft Windows .

  • Page 92: Using The Raw Executable

    Setting Up and Configuring Omnia Remote Control The Remote Control Program for the Omnia-6fm is specific to the Omnia-6fm. As stated earlier, Omnia Remote Control programs designed for our other Omnia family of products will not work with Omnia 6.

  • Page 93: Finding The Software Version Number

    While you are configuring the data for the various connection types, the Omnia Remote Control software can be run without having to connect it to the Omnia-6fm. Start the Omnia6_remote1.exe program. As mentioned earlier, when the program is run for the first time, you will get an error message saying: “No connection database, creating new database.”...

  • Page 94: Edit Connection Dialog Box

    Under the Options Menu, select "Edit Connection". A new window will open, and a default “New Connection” option will be displayed. Enter required information into each of the configuration boxes. Edit Connection Menu in Omnia 6 Remote Control In the left side of the "Edit Connection" window will be the list of any connections that are currently contained in the 'connect.dat' configuration file.

  • Page 95: Using The Supplied Modem

    Note: The modem card can be safely installed and removed when the Omnia's power is off. Only the PCMCIA modem card supplied with the Omnia-6fm has been tested and approved by Telos Omnia. We cannot ensure correct operation of any other modem card with the Omnia6-fm, nor can we provide support for such non-approved cards.

  • Page 96: Using A Direct Serial Connection

    Connecting via Modem Configure a new connection, also entering the telephone number to which the Omnia-6fm’s Modem Card is connected. If your computer needs to dial an access code (such as "9") to get an outside line, that must be entered as well.

  • Page 97: Custom Modem Initialization Strings

    Using a Custom Modem Initialization String A custom Modem Initialization String is sometimes required in order to control the behavior of the modem in special circumstances. While there are many different initialization string possibilities, the most common one modifies how the modem handles dial tone. Sometimes the modem may be connected to a circuit that does not provide the US standard 350/440 Hz dial tone, and in this case, you need to tell the modem to ignore it.
  • Page 98 Given this information, a possible initialization string example configured to ignore the dial tone before dialing, could be: ATX0w,xyyyzzzz or ATX0w-,x-yyy-zzz Where "AT" is the start of the standard modem command string, and; Where "X0" tells the modem to ignore busy and dial tone detection, and. Where "x"...

  • Page 99: Using An Ethernet Based Connection

    Using a Direct RS-232 Connection for Local Communications When a computer can be located near the Omnia-6fm, it may be convenient to use a direct serial cable connection rather than dial up. Use a standard, straight-through serial cable - null-modem cables will not work! A typical serial cable will need a DB-25 male connector for the Omnia-6fm end, and probably a DB- 9 female connector on the computer end.

  • Page 100: Establishing A Remote Session

    Establishing a Remote Connection To establish a connection with the remotely located Omnia-6fm, return to the Options Menu and select Connect, which brings up a list of connections you have defined. Double-click on the name of the desired connection, or highlight it to select it and press OK. The connection will be established after a short pause, and you should see the bargraph meters become active when a connection has been established.

  • Page 101: Terminal Programs/Direct Connection

    Flow Control (None) The Baud rate (bits per second) must be set to match the setting in the Omnia-6fm’s System Menu. Make sure however that the maximum allowed baud rate (set in the Windows Device Manager) of the serial port being used is set at least as high as the desired baud rate.

  • Page 102: Trigger Script Editor

    Trigger Interface and Script Editor Overview of the Trigger Script Editor The Omnia 6 Remote Control software contains a special script editor that allows the programming of complicated system parameter changes which can be "triggered" by logic state changes on the rear-panel "Interface"...

  • Page 103: Use Of Trigger Scripts

    Trigger LOW is sensed. When nothing is connected to the Trigger Inputs, the inputs normally sit at approximately 3.5 volts, which is a logic HIGH. What Can Trigger Scripts Control? Virtually any aspect of the Omnia 6 operation can be controlled using the Trigger Script function. Therefore, we'll explain some of the different types of operations that can be performed, and the different types of commands that are required to perform each one.

  • Page 104: Paras And Sysparas

    Once a script has been entered, clicking the Test button checks the script syntax, and if correct, sends the displayed script to the Omnia-6fm for immediate execution. Use the command line window and/or any alert dialogs that pop up to view the success or failure of the script. Note that executing the script in this manner does not result in the script being downloaded or saved as a trigger script, it is simply run once to see if the script, as written, actually works.
  • Page 105 the current scripts and close the Script Editor window. Click “Cancel” to close the window, discarding any changes made since the last “Apply” or “Save to Card.” Note: If you have created Trigger Scripts and clicked "Apply" but not "Save to Card", the Omnia will only remember your scripts until you power it off.

  • Page 106: Script Command Definitions

    Script Command Definitions The scripting commands available for use with the Daypart Scheduler are listed in bold lettering (e.g., parts). Their definitions (e.g., Displays the current daypart table) and usage examples are also listed. The commands have been divided by general functions (Dayparts, Presets, System parameters, etc.). In use, a command is typed in and then the enter or return key is pressed.

  • Page 107: Non-System Parameters

    Example: rename 21 BOOGY <enter> commands the Omnia-6 to rename preset number 2. save Saves the preset under its current name. Note: Factory presets are permanent and cannot be written over. You must use the ‘saveas’ command when saving changes made to a factory preset in order to save it as a unique name.

  • Page 108: System Parameters

    36) WB AGC [IN] 37) Phase Rot. [1] Each 'syspara' is listed along with its currently assigned value, ie, "37) Phase Rot. [1]" Although listed, the following 'syspara' numbers are not applicable to the Omnia 6fm: 2) Analog Gain 19) Editing Mode...

  • Page 109: Setting New Syspara Values

    This procedure can of course be done by manually using the Omnia-6fm front panel controls to turn off the 19 kHz pilot tone and to switch the input from stereo to mono left. But a far easier method is to use the Trigger Script Editor to create two scripts that can be loaded into the processor to run in response to a single relay contact closure or open.

  • Page 110: Example: Switch To Mono

    Trigger Script Example for Switching to Mono Operation In this example, we'll configure Trigger Input # 1 to switch the Omnia-6fm into mono operation when the contact closes and switch back to stereo when it opens again. To create this script, open up the Script Editor and click radio button #1.
  • Page 111 Omnia-6fm. And the eight relays or switches do not have to be switched locally: commands can even be initiated by a network satellite when a receiver with contact closures is being used.

  • Page 112: Interface Connector

    Let's review what we created for the example we showed you under "Using the Script Editor". Whenever pin 1 is held low (the contact or switch is in a closed state), the Omnia-6fm will switch to and stay in mono mode (no Pilot and only the left input channel is used).
  • Page 113 few seconds, the front panel's confirmation of the time change may lag by a few seconds. Another use of the one way script possibility (although not strongly recommended) is the remote 're- booting' of the Omnia. In that special case, there would be no Go High script entry. The Go Low script for that function would simply read: warmboot Remote re-booting of the unit carries with it several caveats:...

  • Page 114: Scripting Via Daypart Scheduler

    The Scripts editor is accessed from the Modify Schedule Window by highlighting and clicking on the Scripts button. There are also test buttons on the page to force the Omnia-6fm to immediately run the current Start Script or End Script.
  • Page 115 Chapter 7 Troubleshooting your Omnia 6 Many operational problems with the Omnia 6fm can be diagnosed using the rear-panel RS-232 port and a terminal communications program. Detailed information about the boot progress may be gleaned using the RS-232 port. This chapter explains the various boot up and error messages that may be encountered.

  • Page 116: Rear Panel Serial Port Setup

    Port Setup for MS Windows Hyperterminal © © The following examples illustrate how to configure Windows Hyperterminal for use on the Omnia 6 RS- 232 port. COM Port Setup Parameters Terminal Emulation Parameters Once these parameters have been entered and saved as a connection profile, they can be used to capture and display (and/or print) the output of the Omnia 6's RS-232 serial port during boot up.

  • Page 117: Normal Boot Up Message

    Normal Boot-up Message A 'healthy' Omnia 6 will transmit the following message on the rear-panel serial port during boot up: Omnia BIOS Software 1.13 Work: BIOS v1.13... Work: Downloading OS... Work: Downloading OS... Work: Downloading OS... Work: Downloading OS... Work: Downloading OS... Work: Downloading OS...

  • Page 118: Audio Failure Alarm

    Audio Failure Alarm If no audio is applied to the Omnia, the following messages will be transmitted on the RS-232 port approximately twenty seconds after a successful boot up: Flr : Audio failure: left input Flr : Audio failure: right input Flr : Audio failure: left output Flr : Audio failure: right output In the absence of an audio source, these "Audio failure"...

  • Page 119: Diagnostic Messages

    Diagnostic and Error Messages Work: Insert card to continue!!! (non-fatal error) The operating system cannot see the rear-panel PCMCIA memory card. Turn power off and make sure that the card is fully seated, then return power to cure this message. Card does not have valid OS!!! (a fatal error) The contents of the rear-panel memory card do not match what the operating system expects.

  • Page 120: Clearing Corrupted Nvram

    Clearing corrupted Non-volatile RAM contents Occasionally during a software upgrade, the contents of the motherboard's on-board non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) will contain entries that are inappropriate for the version of software that has just been installed. An excellent example of such behavior is a unit that has been upgraded from DSP software version 6.00.13 to 6.01.00.
  • Page 121 Close up of Shunt "S1" Close up photo of shunt jumper "S1" (shown in the normal, "NC" position) Once the contents of the non-volatile RAM have been cleared remove the jumper from the "NO" terminals and re-install it on the terminals marked "NC". Note: Failure to re-install the jumper on the "NC" terminals will prevent operating power from being applied to the non-volatile RAM at boot up, and the motherboard will be unable to initialize.

  • Page 122: Diagnosing Abnormal Boot Behavior

    Diagnosing abnormal boot up behavior The rotating Omnia logos are shown below stopped and not replaced by the usual menu and meter screens. This means that one or more functions on the Omnia motherboard have not been initialized, but the front panel is alive and well.

  • Page 123: Narrowing Down Problems

    Electrical and mechanical safety note! When the Omnia is operated with its chassis top cover removed, you are exposed to potentially lethal voltages and high speed rotating fan blades. Before attempting to make voltage measurements, be forewarned that the power supply heat sinks are connected to the AC power line.
  • Page 124 CPU, or a failure of the motherboard to initialize either the DSP code or operating system. In the unlikely event that your Omnia-6fm is out of service and in need of assistance from Omnia, please see the section entitled Obtaining Service for contact information.

  • Page 125: Performing Software Upgrades

    Performing software upgrades in the field The Omnia 6 design is extremely flexible in that it allows unlimited possibilities for software updates and feature enhancements. By simply replacing PCMCIA type memory cards, the DSP software and/or front panel user interface can be updated and new features are added. Some software updates will have only one card, while others will have two.
  • Page 126 Location of PCMCIA memory card containing the front panel user interface Software enhancements that are contained in the front panel PCMCIA memory card must be installed internally on the front panel display controller board itself. The display controller card has its own PCMCIA memory card containing the front panel user interface program and its enhancements.

  • Page 127: Obtaining Service

    Obtaining Service Omnia Customer Focus personnel are available in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, Monday through Friday between 9:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M., Eastern Time. If outside the U.S.A., see below. Before contacting Omnia Customer Focus, please have the serial number of the unit (located on a barcode sticker on the rear panel in this format: 4700XXYYYY) and a description of the symptoms/problems ready for the technician.

  • Page 128: Preset Parameter Worksheet

    Omnia-6 Parameter Worksheet Preset Name:_______________ By: ______________________________ Date: _____________________ Parameter Value Parameter Value Parameter Value Parameter Value Input Submenu LF-AGC Enhancers Limiters Mixer Input Source Attack Deep Bass Super-Low Band Input Gain Left Release Phat Bass Low Band Input Gain Right Make-Up Gain Warmth Mid-Low Band...

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