OPERATING MANUAL DIGIRATOR DR2
NTi Audio Contact Details Head Office NTi Audio AG Im alten Riet 102 9494 Schaan Liechtenstein, Europe Americas NTI Americas PO Box 131027 Tigard, Oregon 97281 USA China NTI China Room 722, 7F, Building 6-3A, No 1388, Bin He Rd. 215000 Suzhou, China Japan NTI Japan Ryogokusakamoto Bld. 1-8-4 Ryogoku, 130-0026 Sumida-Ku Tokyo, Japan Tel.: Fax: E-Mail: Web: Tel.: Fax: E-Mail: Web: Tel.: Fax: E-Mail: Web: Tel.: Fax: E-Mail: Web: +423 239 6060 +423 239 6089 info@nti-audio.com www.nti-audio.
Table of contents Table of contents 1. Digirator Basics................................................................4 Introduction.....................................................................4 Notes..............................................................................5 Items included in the package........................................6 Accessories....................................................................6 2. Overview of the Instrument..........................................
Basics 1. Digirator Basics Introduction Thank you for purchasing the Digirator. The Digirator DR2 is a reference grade digital audio generator with AES3, S/PDIF and ADAT outputs. As an extension to the common stereo audio test signals, DR2 also supports surround sound sequences for setup and testing of professional Dolby Digital, Dolby E, ProLogic II and DTS installations. The ultra stable internal clock generator can be synchronized to AES3, DARS, Word Clock as well as video signals.
Basics Notes Damage to equipment connected Damage from moisture The Digirator is a test generator and thus allows creating exceptional signals that do not appear in normal audio operations. Do not use the instrument in damp environments! Such generated signals may damage or destroy systems and loudspeakers if not operated carefully. The instrument can be permanently damaged by penetration of water, moisture or any fluid.
Basics Items included in the package Accessories • • • • • • • • • • • • 6 Digirator DR2 Protective shock jacket Test signal backup DVD Operating manual XLR - BNC adapter (Neutrik NA2MBNC) RCA - BNC adapter USB cable Hand strap Pouch System Case Mains Power Adapter Calibration Certificate NTi Audio # 600 000 302 NTi Audio # 600 000 020 NTi Audio # 600 000 333 NTi Audio # 600 000 018 You can find further additional information on the website www.nti-audio.
Overview 2.
Overview Buttons and operating elements 1 2 3 esc 9 level 8 2 3 8 esc wave Selection of the test signal. 5 freq Setting the output frequency. Also directly jumps to the „PARAM“ menu with the „SWEEP“ and „CHIRP“ test signals; and to file selection with „FILE”, „DOLBY” and „DTS”. 6 mute When pressed, it illuminates to indicate you have switched off (Muted) the output signal. The button also lights up during the cycle pauses of the „PNOISE” and „CHIRP” signal waveforms.
Overview The screen display The main menu 1 2 Menu bar 1 2 3 4 3 1 2 3 4 Menu bar Battery symbol: If the battery symbol lights up the batteries are almost completely discharged and must be replaced. Carrier signal interface settings Audio signal generation settings.
Overview Settings for signal generation 1 Settings for interface carrier signal 2 3 1 2 4 3 7 6 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 Test signal Start / Stop for certain test signals Parameters setup Single / continous mode for certain test signals Output frequency Units for the output level Output level 1 Settings and display of sampling frequency and clock source 2 Configuration and status display of the optical output 3 Channel status settings
Overview Power supply Battery operation In order to be always able to use the Digirator flexibly, we recommend the use of batteries. We recommend you use only the NTi Audio DC supply. But if you want to make use of a different DC power supply unit, you must observe the following: Only use 3x AA, LR6 batteries. The battery consumption increases at higher levels and is based on the connected load. During operation, the battery temperature may increase noticeably. This is not a defect.
Overview 2 SYNC IN XLR - 110 Ω, 75 Ω, High-Z 1 75 110 AES3, DARS 3 Clock Processing Characteristics of the outputs fs Word Clock, Blackburst Electrical Outputs (AES3, S/PDIF) Video 75 The Digirator features two electrical outputs that are equipped with a shared high quality transformer. Both outputs are earthfree and resistant to externally applied Phantom Power. Do not use both outputs in parallel.
Overview Characteristics of the SYNC input The sampling frequency of the Digirator can be synchronized and locked to external devices. In order to do this, the sync signal is connected to the universal sync input circuitry via a female XLR connector to the DR2. An adaptor for connecting a BNC cable to the XLR input is also included as a standard accessory item with the DR2. Supported sync / clock formats The Digirator recognizes clock sources automatically as they are connected.
Getting Started 3. Getting Started Inserting the batteries Only use AA, LR6 batteries. You will need 3 AA batteries. The batteries may significantly warm up during operation. This is not a malfunction. The Digirator can also be operated with rechargeable batteries. For best battery performance only use new batteries of the same type and manufacturer. 1. Open the battery cover. 2. Insert three AA, LR6 batteries with the same state of charge, paying attention to the +/- marking in the battery compartment. 3.
Getting Started Fitting the protective shock jacket The shock jacket protects the instrument against light impacts without impairing it’s easy operation. It is recommended to leave it mounted. 1. Push the lower end of your Digirator into the lower end of the protective shock jacket. 2. Push the upper end of the Digirator into the protective housing. Damage through impacts / shocks 1. 2. The protective shock jacket shields your Digirator against reasonable impacts that could occur in normal use.
Getting Started Attaching the hand strap To prevent you from accidentally dropping the DR2, a hand strap is supplied with the instrument. You can also fit the hand strap when the protective shock jacket of the DR2 has been fitted. 1. 1. Pull the hand strap through the opening. 2. Pull the rear part of the hand strap through the loop of the front part. 3. Pull the hand strap tight. 2. 3.
Getting Started Connecting the Digirator XLR-connection Connect the Digirator to your digital audio device using an XLR cable. Note that the locking pin of the XLR connector will then be located on the lower side of the instrument! RCA connection Connect the Digirator to the digital input of the unit to be tested using a good quality RCA cable. Please note that not all RCA cables are suitable for digital audio use.
Operation 4. Operation Navigation in the menu bar Switching Digirator on and off The menu bar is divided into three parts. On the left-hand side, you can choose between the Generator, Transparency-Test, I/O Delay (Latency) and System functions. Switching the Digirator on To switch the Digirator on, press the “On/Off” button. The display lighting is switched on. Switching the Digirator off To switch the Digirator off, press the “On/Off” button and hold it down for one second. 1.
Operation Selecting a test signal You have two choices for selecting test signals. You can use either the direct access buttons or the rotary wheel. Signal selection using the direct access buttons 1. Ensure that GENERATOR 1 is selected in the menu bar. 2. Press the “wave” button. Signal selection using the rotary wheel 1. Ensure that GENERATOR 1 is selected in the menu bar. 2. Select “WAV” 2 with the rotary wheel. 3. Press “Enter”. A selection menu appears. A selection menu appears. 1 2 3.
Operation Setting the parameters You have two possibilities for setting up the parameters of the test signals. Use either the direct buttons or the rotary wheel. Setting parameters using the rotary wheel 1. Turn the rotary wheel. The selected parameters will be marked with a black bar. Setting parameters using the direct access buttons 1. Press the “level” or “freq” button. You have selected the desired parameter. 2. Turn the rotary wheel to set the parameter. 3.
Operation Setting the sensitivity of the rotary wheel You can set up the sensitivity (step size) of the rotary wheel. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Select Level or Frequency 2. Hold down the “sens” button. with the rotary wheel. The current sensitivity of the rotary wheel will be displayed 1 . 3. Turn the rotary wheel to set up the desired sensitivity. 4. Release the “Sens” button to accept the desired sensitivity. 1 You have now changed the sensitivity of the rotary wheel.
Operation Setting the sampling frequency Internal clock source You may choose to have the Digirator DR2 either generate the sampling clock internally or be synchronized to an external clock source (see „Synchronizing to an external clock“). With no signal applied to the SNYC input you may choose among the internally generated clock frequencies: 1. Select from the available internal values with the rotary wheel and then press „Enter“ The actual sampling frequency value is highlighted with a blinking bar.
Operation Setting the Channel Status Configuring the output channels You can define the most important settings in the channel status data: The output channels of the DR2 can be individually muted or inverted. 1 2 3 1. Choose the desired parameter 1 , 2 or 3 with the rotary wheel and press “ENTER“ to change the value.
Operation Optical output There are three operation modes available for the optical output: The optical output can operate up to the following maximum sampling frequencies: 2 channel mode (AES) ADAT mode (8 channels) Channels 1, 3, 5, 7 are fed from channel A of the stereo signal , while channels 2, 4, 6, 8 contain the audio of channel B Optical output is switched off You may alter settings as follows: 1. Select the value under the LED icon with the rotary wheel: 2. Press “ENTER“ to change the value.
Operation System settings You can adjust various system settings of your instrument. To do this, switch to System 1 in the menu bar using the rotary wheel and confirm with “Enter”. 3. Turn the rotary wheel to set the desired time. 4. Confirm the entry with the “Enter” button. The possible system settings are displayed: You have now changed the switch-on time of the PowerSave mode.
Operation Configurations Firmware Displays the version number, with the possibility to carry out a firmware update for the DR2 4 (see “Updating the Instrument”). With the DR2, you can store your current instrument settings as configurations, and recall these at a later date. Storing configurations 10 configuration storage locations are available to you. Display of the serial number You can read out the instrument’s serial number bottom line. 5 from the Setting the contrast 1.
Operation 4. Select a memory location with the rotary wheel and store your configuration by confirming the selection with “Enter”. You have now stored the current instrument settings as a configuration. Calling up configurations 1. Use the rotary wheel to select CONFIG in the menu bar. 2. Confirm with “Enter”. The following menu is opened: 1. Connect your DR2 to a computer via USB. 2. Select the CONFIG sub-folder. You have now loaded the desired configuration.
Linear PCM Test Signals 5. Linear PCM Test Signals Signal generation The Digirator DR2 flexibly generates linear PCM test signals such as sine, noise or even other arbitrary signals from 48 kHz wave (WAV) files. The match and lock of the selected sampling rate to the applied reference signal is handled by an internal sample rate converter. This configuration ensures that the generated audio signal frequency is not dependent on the sampling rate but left unchanged.
Linear PCM Test Signals Sine Sweep Characteristics and use Pure sinusoidal signals are required for many standard audio measurements. The Digirator provides a wide and adjustable output level range and selectable output frequencies. Characteristics and use Stepped sweep signals with a resolution of up to 1/12 octave can be generated over a freely-selectable frequency range.
Linear PCM Test Signals Sweep Signal modes Using the “MODE” symbol, you can run the test signal in the following modes: f f STOP B Once-only : Plays the test signal once Continuous : Repeats the test signal Parameter You can define the following parameter for this test signal: Output level The frequency display is for information only. The current frequencies will be displayed here once the SWEEP test signal has been started. You can configure the signal sequence here.
Linear PCM Test Signals Chirp Once-only : Plays the test signal once. Continuous : Repeats the test signal after an adjustable pause (t ). PAUSE Parameter You can define the following parameters for this test signal: Output level The frequency display is purely for information only. The current frequencies will be displayed here after the start of the CHIRP test signal. Configuration of the signal sequence.
Linear PCM Test Signals Delay Test The normal fading in and out of any Chirp signal generates spurious frequency components, leading to ripple in the frequency response. The Chirp sequences of the DR2 are optimized for ripple of ± 0.2 dB maximum. Chirp parameter combinations which would result in higher ripple are automatically corrected during input. Characteristics and use The Delay Test signal is a specially configured Chirp signal.
Linear PCM Test Signals Pink Noise 1 2 Characteristics and use The Pink Noise test signal is characterized by flat amplitude response per octave band of frequency (or per any other constant percentage unit of bandwidth) up to its band limit; high spectral density, an infinite period (> 100 years) and 20 kHz bandwidth. Pink Noise is used as a reference signal for the setup of loudspeaker systems (PA systems), with a Real Time Analyzer (RTA) executing the required measurements.
Linear PCM Test Signals White Noise Polarity Characteristics and use The White Noise test signal has a high spectral density, Gaussian amplitude distribution and a nearly infinite period (> 100 years). White Noise is used for all measurements with FFT analyzers or where a linear frequency scale is used, and has a constant signal power per Hertz and a 20 kHz bandwidth. Characteristics and use The saw-tooth test signal is ideally suited for checking the polarity of loudspeakers.
Linear PCM Test Signals Wave File Player Parameter You can define the following parameter for this test signal: 1 Output level The output level of this test signal is adjusted in dBF (dB full scale) or %. 2 Characteristics and use With the Digirator, you can play back your own test signals and sequences from wave (WAV) files. The test sequences will be seamlessly looped without pauses. For a better overview, wave files storage in the DR2 is organized using sub-folders.
Linear PCM Test Signals Selecting a wav-file 1. Use the rotary wheel to select the file symbol 2 . 2. Confirm with “Enter”. 3. Select the desired wav-file with the rotary wheel. 4. Confirm with “Enter”. 48 kHz sampling frequency Mono or Stereo 16 - 24 bit definition If a wave file does not meet the requirements, the playback stops and the “mute” button lights up continuously red. 36 • PC with Windows 98SE • Macintosh computer with OSX • Available USB port The wav-file will be played.
Linear PCM Test Signals 4. Copy the desired files into the folder. WAVE FOLDER1 FOLDER2 • Signal1.wav • Signal1.wav • Signal2.wav • Signal2.wav • ... • ... ... You have now loaded your Wave files. Copyright NTi Audio delivers a set of demonstration wave files with the DR2. These wave files are licensed to you only for playback with an NTi Audio unit. Any further usage is forbidden. 3. Open one of the sub-folders in the “WAVE” folder.
Dolby / DTS Signals Signal Generator Digital Audio Transmitter fs = 48 kHz INT 6. Dolby / DTS Signals fs = 20 - 216 kHz EXT Signal generation 32.0 kHz 44.1 kHz (*2 , *4) 48.0 kHz (*2 , *4) Video (PAL, NTSC) Word Clock AES3, DARS DR2 internal signal flow for Dolby / DTS test signals Dolby and DTS signals are compressed, multi-channel audio signals. They are transmitted as non-linear PCM signals and need to be processed by a Dolby / DTAS decoder before they can be used as multi-channel audio.
Dolby / DTS Signals The handling of Dolby and DTS files is identical to wave files, described in the previous chapter. 1 Select the signal 1. Select the file symbol 2 with the rotary wheel. 2. Confirm with Enter. 3. Select the desired signal with the rotary wheel. 4. Confirm with Enter. 2 The selected test signal is immediately played back. Sequence of test signals The order sequence of the files is sorted first by file extension (e.g. file.001) and secondarily by actual file name.
Dolby / DTS Signals Test signals and formats Test signals Name CH_ID_L CH_ID_C CH_ID_R CH_ID_LS CH_ID_RS CH_I_LFE PNOISE PNOI_LFE POLARITY SINE_80 SINE_400 SINE_997 SINE_1K SINE_10K VOICE 40 Test signal On each of these channel ID files: There is the spoken channel identification followed by a 400 Hz sine signal. Spoken channel identification with pulsed 80 Hz sine signal on LFE channel.
Dolby / DTS Signals Formats Copyright Name D_20 D_51 Format Dolby Digital 2.0 @ 256 kbit/s Dolby Digital 5.1 @ 448 kbit/s E16_51 E20_51 E20_5120 Dolby E 5.1 @ 16 Bit Dolby E 5.1 @ 20 Bit Dolby E 5.1 + 2.0 @ 20 Bit All Dolby and DTS signals stored in the DR2 are licensed to you, and must only be used and played back on the DR2. Any further use of these files is strictly forbidden. PROLOG2 Dolby ProLogic IIx @ PCM Lt/Rt (5:2:5) Test Signals 755K_20 755K_51 1509K_51 DTS 2.0 @ 754.5 kbit/s DTS 5.
Dolby / DTS Signals Dolby ProLogic II The Dolby ProLogic II format is an uncompressed linear PCM format that codes the channel assignment in the L/R phase relation. You will therefore find the ProLogic II files in the WAVE folders, not in the Dolby folder. Levels All announced levels of the non-linear signals refer to audio levels prior its coding into the non-linear format. Minor level differences may occur due to the encoding process.
Measuring Functions 7. Measuring Functions DR2 Channel transparency testing The displayed validity bit 2 and channel status details 3 are for information only. They are not part of the transparency measurement. The channel transparency test verifies whether the audio and auxiliary data of a digital transmission channel are transparently transmitted. The transparent transmission is crucial for nonlinear PCM formats such as surround sound. The verification always covers both audio channels.
Measuring Functions A nontransparent signal is indicated by the “DATA CHANGED” message. This means that the received bit pattern is different to the expected bit pattern. This could be caused by any changes in e.g. the gain setting or in the word length with added dither. Sampling frequency, synchronization and clock source The sampling frequency is fixed to 48 kHz but can be synchronized to an external reference with 48 kHz within ±100 ppm range. External-synchronization is very helpful for offline tests.
fs = 48 kHz INT fs = 20 - 216 kHz EXT 32.0 kHz 44.1 kHz (*2 , *4) 48.0 kHz (*2 , *4) Digital Audio Transmitter Test procedure For testing the transparency of a transmission channel you profs = 48 kHz 32.0 kHz INT ceed as follows: 44.1 kHz (*2 , *4) fs ≈ 48 kHz fs ≈ 32 - 48 kHz EXT 32.0 kHz 44.1 kHz (*2 , *4) 48.0 kHz (*2 , *4) Video (PAL, NTSC) Word Clock AES3, DARS The result of the continuously measured transparency analysis is displayed.
Measuring Functions I/O Delay test (Latency) The function I/O Delay (latency) test determines the exact time delay which a piece of equipment or an entire system is introducing. For this test, the SYNC input connector of the DR2 is used for receiving the delayed signal. 3 1 2 Function DR2 generates a short test burst every 2 seconds. The SYNC input is continuously monitored and the delay calculated. Level adjustments and minor distortion do not affect the measurement result.
Measuring Functions PAL / NTSC settings The measured I/O delay time (latency) is displayed in milliseconds 1 as well as in video frames 2 . To alter between PAL and NTSC settings, proceed as follows: Digital Audio Analyzer Receiver DR2 internal signal flow for the I/O Delay measurement 1. Navigate the cursor with the rotary wheel to the field displaying NTSC or PAL 2 .Sample Rate Converter time and video frames. 2.
Updating the Instrument 8. Updating the Instrument Firmware update You can find the firmware version of your instrument as follows: 1. Select “SYSTEM” in the menu bar. 2. Confirm the selection with the “Enter” button. The firmware version of the instrument is displayed. Kindly register your instrument at http://my.nti-audio.com (for details see chapter “Further Information”).
Trouble Shooting 9. Tips and Trouble Shooting Faults and their correction Fault Fault finding Cause Remedy The DR2 does not generate an output signal. „mute“ button blinks. You have switched the instrument to Mute. Press the “mute” button. “mute” button lights up continuously. You have called up the “Pink Noise” (PNoise) test signal or you are in the Pause cycle of the Chirp test signal. Wait until the pause has ended. Cable not plugged in correctly or mis-wired.
Trouble Shooting Fault INPUT IMPEDANCE and CLOCK SOURCE window appears intermittently. 50 Fault finding Cause Remedy You have selected SYNC INPUT Select clock source INTERNAL or but the device connected is disconnect the Sync cable. not acting as a clock master. Configure the external device to act as clock master.
Trouble Shooting Resetting to the factory settings If the Digirator reacts unexpectedly, a reset to the factory settings might solve the problem. 1. Switch the instrument off. 2. Hold down the “esc” button and simultaneously operate the “On/Off” button. The confirmation of the reset is displayed on the screen. Reloading wav-files You can reload the Wave, Dolby and DTS files of the DR2 that were installed at the factory. The files are available on the Test signal backup DVD.
Technical Data 10. Technical Data Format Consumer/Professional, up to 24 bit audio Sampling Frequencies / Outputs XLR, RCA: Optical: ADAT: Accuracy: Outputs Inputs Linear PCM Signals Non-linear multichannel signals Wave File Format Frequency Settings 52 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz up to 96 kHz up to 48 kHz ± 2.5 ppm • AES3 (110 ohms) XLR • S/PDIF (75 ohms) RCA • AES3id (75 ohms) with RCA to BNC adapter • TOSLINK: Stereo and ADAT XLR Sync.
Further Information 11. Further Information Registration Register as a customer with My NTi Audio and benefit from the following possibilities: • Keep your products up-to-date Access free firmware and software updates. • Activate options Enable additional functions for your products. • Access premium content Access downloads, information and specific support for your products. • Receive application and product news Subscribe to the NTi Audio Newsletter.
Further Information Warranty conditions International warranty NTi Audio guarantees the function of the DR2 and their individual components for a period of one year from the date of sale. During this period, defective instruments will be repaired free of charge, or will be replaced. Limitations Opening the unit case voids the guarantee.
Declaration of Conformity Information regarding disposal / recycling CE / FCC Compliance Statement We, the manufacturer NTi Audio AG Im alten Riet 102 9494 Schaan Liechtenstein, Europe hereby declare that the Digirator DR2 product, approved in 2007, complies with the following standards or other standard documents: EMC: 89/336, 92/31, 93/68 Harmonized standards: EN 61326-1 Dispose of the instrument in accordance with the legal environmental regulations in the country.
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