Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Manual

Transport stream audio processor
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Transport Stream Audio Processor
Linear Acoustic Inc.
Phone:
717-735-3611
FAX:
717-735-3612
Web:
www.LinearAcoustic.com
AERO.ASI

User Guide

Release Date: August 2013
Software Version: 0.13.94 and later

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Summary of Contents for Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI

  • Page 1: User Guide

    AERO.ASI Transport Stream Audio Processor User Guide Release Date: August 2013 Software Version: 0.13.94 and later Linear Acoustic Inc. Phone: 717-735-3611 FAX: 717-735-3612 Web: www.LinearAcoustic.com...
  • Page 2: Warranty Information

    Linear Acoustic or its agents have been advised, orally or in writing, of the possibility of such damages. This product contains Audyne dynamic range processing and is manufactured under license.
  • Page 3 Regulatory Notices and Fusing Information This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with this instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
  • Page 4 s equipment complies with the EMC requirements of EN55103-1 and EN55103-2 when operated in an E2 environment accordance with this manual. IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE unit complies with the safety standard EN60065. The unit shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as ee cups, shall be placed on the equipment.
  • Page 5 Fusing Information WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, replace fuses only with the same type and rating. Both units use a universal switching power supply that handles the full range of nominal mains voltages between 90 and 264 VAC and any frequency between 50 Hz and 60 Hz.
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Table of Contents ............................ix List of Figures ................11 Chapter 1: Introduction to AERO.ASI Back Panel......................12 System Block Diagram..................13 Power........................16 Menus ........................17 Important Setup Parameters ................18 1.5.1 Reference ....................18 1.5.2 Audio Input Select ................19 1.5.3 Audio Output Routing ................20...
  • Page 8 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Chapter 3: Factory Presets ......................39 ....................41 Chapter 4: Troubleshooting ......................43 Chapter 5: Specifications viii...
  • Page 9: List Of Figures

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide List of Figures .........................12 AERO.ASI back panel ........................13 AERO.ASI block diagram ......................14 2.0 Stereo Instance (2+2+Local) ....................15 5.1 Channel Instance (5.1+2+Local) ........................17 Menu shows signal flow ..........................17 Yellow popup hint ........................18 Clock Reference set to ASI ............19...
  • Page 10 Adjusting the target level (dialnorm) to match the meter ..................31 Remote software installer (V2.20.23 or later) ....32 Left: Remote control setup screen; Right: AERO.ASI negotiates connection with remote ..................33 Home screen in non-Expert mode (default) ........................33 Top of remote interface .....34...
  • Page 11: Chapter 1: Introduction To Aero.asi

    The resulting audio is consistent, compliant, and appropriately dynamic - satisfying consumers and reg- ulators alike. The AERO.ASI can contain up to four instances, one for each PID. Each instance can have one of these program configurations, or Instance Styles: •...
  • Page 12: Back Panel

    See Connector Pinouts on page 44 for AES and analog connector, metadata, and GPI pinout tables. Back Panel Figure 1-1 AERO.ASI back panel Figure 1-1 shows the AERO.ASI back panel. Its connector functions are described below from left to right: •...
  • Page 13: System Block Diagram

    Introduction to AERO.ASI System Block Diagram Figure 1-2 shows a simplified overall block diagram of AERO.ASI. The processing sections can be either 5.1 channel or 2.0 stereo capable, and the details of each style of instance are described in sub- sequent drawings.
  • Page 14: Stereo Instance (2+2+Local)

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI Figure 1-3 shows a detailed view of the 2.0 stereo instance. Figure 1-3 2.0 Stereo Instance (2+2+Local)
  • Page 15: Channel Instance (5.1+2+Local)

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI Figure 1-4 shows a detailed view of the 5.1 channel instance. Figure 1-4 5.1 Channel Instance (5.1+2+Local)
  • Page 16: Power

    Since there is no on/off switch on the AERO.ASI, connect AC power to both inlets to power the unit on. The blue light behind the Linear Acoustic logo illuminates, the LCD screen shows the Linear Acoustic logo, and the fans turn on.
  • Page 17: Menus

    Introduction to AERO.ASI Menus AERO.ASI’s menus are hierarchical and follow logical signal processing flows from left to right, top to bottom. Figure 1-5 shows Instance 1 Input Source selection, and this flow is illustrated by the light gray boxes below the meters.
  • Page 18: Important Setup Parameters

    Important Setup Parameters 1.5.1 Reference The AERO.ASI reference MUST be set to ASI. Other options are also present for non-DVB-ASI testing. The unit can be referenced to: • AES DARS (or any AES signal applied to the Ref In connector);...
  • Page 19: Audio Input Select

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI 1.5.2 Audio Input Select Since a single physical input can feed multiple instances, each instance has a built-in router to select audio in pairs. Figure 1-8 Available inputs for 5.1+2+Local instance: 1–6 + 7–8 + 9–10...
  • Page 20: Audio Output Routing

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI 1.5.3 Audio Output Routing Since one physical Output can come from just one source, a single output router configures each of the four possible PIDS for the DVB-ASI signal. Figure 1-10 The AES and ASI Outputs tabs allow source selection for each physical output Note that any one Instance or Encoder output can go to all physical outputs if desired, but for DVB- ASI, only encoder outputs are valid choices.
  • Page 21: Ethernet

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI 1.5.4 Ethernet The Ethernet connection, like the reference signal, must be stable and consistent. Audio glitches may be audible on air if Ethernet is interrupted. Although initially configured for DHCP (auto-IP address), static IP addresses can also be entered explicitly.
  • Page 22: Video Compensation Delay

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI 1.5.5 Video Compensation Delay Video compensation delay can re-time audio and video/ancillary data signals from DVB-ASI In to DVB-ASI Out to match processing delay. Rough timing is accomplished via the Delay control (milli- second), and more precise timing via the Fine control (microsecond).
  • Page 23: Preset Selection

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI 1.5.6 Preset Selection The factory default is TV 5B Gen, but several others are included and can be selected for each instance. Note that Factory presets, which cannot be overwritten, are white. User presets, which can be added and modified, are yellow.
  • Page 24: Dvb-Asi Setup

    Introduction to AERO.ASI DVB-ASI Setup Activating processing is as simple as setting a PID number and enabling Insertion. The AERO.ASI comes pre-configured to decode up to four ASI programs: Instance 1 source is ASI 1, Instance 2 source is ASI 2, etc...
  • Page 25: Dvb-Asi Audio Settings

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI To select each of the ASI programs, enter the PID as a decimal value (not Hex). The AERO.ASI will extract that PID and should immediately begin decoding that audio. To reinsert the processed output, enable PGM 1 Audio Insertion (or whichever program is desired).
  • Page 26: Dolby

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI Dolby Dolby E and Dolby Digital decoding are available on a per-technology/per-instance basis. The decod- er shows bitstream status and two settings: • Decode 7/8 (Dolby E) – Selects whether 7/8 audio comes from the input or the Dolby E de- coder.
  • Page 27: Nielsen

    NTP server. Then enter the Site ID (SID) and Check Digits supplied by Nielsen. Status will show as “Running” if the SID and Check Digits are a valid match. Linear Acoustic CANNOT assign these settings. They are supplied and monitored by Nielsen. NOTE:...
  • Page 28: Compliance

    Introduction to AERO.ASI Compliance Simply setting up the AERO.ASI in-line and assigning a factory preset (other than Protection Limit, which is essentially Bypass) will result in smooth, viewer-pleasing audio and compliance. The next step is to make sure that the average audio loudness matches the target loudness value set in the final encoder.
  • Page 29: Adjusting The Target Level (Dialnorm) To Match The Meter

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI Adjust the Target Level (dialnorm) until it matches the meter. Figure 1-25 Adjusting the target level (dialnorm) to match the meter...
  • Page 30 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Introduction to AERO.ASI...
  • Page 31: Chapter 2: Remote Interface

    PCs running Windows XP, Vista, or 7. Touchscreen support is provided for touch-sensitive devices. All AERO.ASI parameter adjustments must be made via the remote client. The remote can also stream high quality audio back over the local network to the host computer so different processor patch points can be monitored in real-time.
  • Page 32: Left: Remote Control Setup Screen; Right: Aero.asi Negotiates Connection With Remote

    4. Launch the NFRemote software (New Framework Remote), and enter the IP address, pass- word (if required) to connect to the desired unit, and Station info. Figure 2-2 Left: Remote control setup screen; Right: AERO.ASI negotiates connection with remote 5. Press Add to add this unit and its information to the list.
  • Page 33: Overview

    Figure 2-3 Home screen in non-Expert mode (default) Windows that indicate the AERO.ASI’s CPU load, client volume (streaming audio), headphone vol- ume, and the host PC’s CPU load display at the top of the screen. When the display is small, these controls combine and a drop-down arrow appears, allowing you to activate individual controls.
  • Page 34: Expert And Non-Expert Modes

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Remote Interface Expert and Non-Expert Modes “Expert” and “Non-Expert” refer ONLY to how information and controls are displayed on the screen, and not to the number of controls available or their precision. The default Non-Expert mode (shown in Figure 2-4) devotes the top of the screen to display windows, while the bottom is reserved for menus and controls.
  • Page 35: Display Presets

    Display Presets Six display presets are available. The AERO.ASI remote software first appears with display preset 1 active. Any changes made to the screen (i.e., selecting between Expert/Non-Expert modes, resizing window sections, or choosing the number and/or type of display windows visible) are automatically saved in real time.
  • Page 36: Settings For The Selected Rta

    RTA (real time analyzer) • FFT spectrum analyzer These valuable monitoring and diagnostic tools can measure and display signals from myriad patch points within AERO.ASI. Extensive setup controls are provided for these meter types. Figure 2-8 Settings for the selected RTA...
  • Page 37: Loudness Metering

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Remote Interface Loudness Metering Each instance has an ITU-BS.1770-3 loudness meter. Note that because the loudness meter is tied to the program, and the settings are likely to be program-specific, setup for the loudness meter is done within the program settings.
  • Page 38: General Notes

    Multiple computers can connect to the same AERO.ASI unit simultaneously. • One computer can connect to multiple AERO.ASI units with a single installation of the Re- mote Interface software. This is a handy feature for monitoring or adjusting main and backup units at the same facility, or addressing units assigned to additional channels or even different stations.
  • Page 39: Chapter 3: Factory Presets

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Chapter 3: Factory Presets This section lists each preset in alphabetical order, as they appear in the AERO.ASI and the remote interface. Each preset’s adjustable processing parameters are described. Some presets do not use ev- ery parameter.
  • Page 40 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Factory Presets Net 5B Limit Net 5B Limit applies a final polish to an already consistent network program prior to distribution. A combination of TV 5B Light and ITU 5B Loudness Limit, this preset has a very slow input AGC, and a lighter multiband AGC.
  • Page 41: Chapter 4: Troubleshooting

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Chapter 4: Troubleshooting AERO.ASI is reliable and easy to install. Most problems turn out to be wiring mistakes that apply in- correct input signals. However, it is a powerful processor with many user-adjustable parameters, some of which interact.
  • Page 42 Reverberant audio that sounds like a tunnel indicates timing differentials between the channel pairs. Stereo viewers are usually the first to notice such problems. The delay settings in AERO.ASI should all be equal, or set explicitly. Offsets of just a few milliseconds can be audible under the right conditions.
  • Page 43: Chapter 5: Specifications

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Chapter 5: Specifications Figure 5-1 Electrical Processing 5.1 Channel PID: 5.1+Local/Voiceover/EAS Input Structure 2.0 Channel PID: 2+Local/Voiceover/EAS Input AEROMAX®: ITU-R compliant loudness control via fully adjustable wideband and multiband processing Algorithms UPMAX® II: 5.1-channel upmixing, automatic bypass of discrete content...
  • Page 44: Connector Pinouts

    Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Specifications Table 5-1 Physical Dimensions H = 1.75 in (45 mm) W = 19 in (483 mm) D = 13.25 in (337 mm) 12.5 lb (6 kg) approximate Net Weight Operating: 0 – 50ºC Non-operating: -20 – 70ºC...
  • Page 45 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Specifications Table 5-4 Metadata Input Port Pinout Connection Shield TX A asynchronous data out – RX B asynchronous data in + Ground Ground TX B asynchronous data out + RX A asynchronous data in –...
  • Page 46 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Specifications Table 5-5 GP I/O Parallel Control Port (DB25-F) Function +5 V, 150 mA GPI A (Active Low) GPI B (Active Low) GPI C (Active Low) GPI D (Active Low) GPI E (Active Low) GPI F (Active Low)
  • Page 47 Linear Acoustic AERO.ASI User Guide Specifications -NOTES-...

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