Minilyzer ML1 User Manual
NTi Audio Contact Headquarter: NTi Audio AG Im alten Riet 102 9494 Schaan Liechtenstein, Europe Tel +423 - 239 6060 Fax +423 - 239 6089 E-mail info@nti-audio.com Home www.nti-audio.com NTi Audio is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company. © NTi Audio AG All rights reserved. Subject to change without notice. Release 3.12 / May 2011 / Software V3.12 Minilyzer, Minirator, MiniSPL and Minstruments are registered trademarks of NTi Audio AG.
Table of Contents: 1.
Introduction 1. Introduction Congratulations and thank you for buying NTi Audio’s Minilyzer ML1, a product specially suited for professional audio applications. The Minilyzer offers advanced analysis functions, expected only in much larger and more expensive systems. We are convinced you will enjoy using it! NTi Audio products are manufactured in compliance with the highest quality standards and marked with the CE sign.
Introduction Registration Register as a customer with 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 Sign in for the NTi Audio Newsletter. • Get fast worldwide support Register your products for fast support.
Introduction International Warranty and Repair International Warranty NTi Audio guarantees the Minilyzer and its components against defects in material or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase, and agrees to repair or to replace at its discretion any defective unit at no cost for either parts or labor during this period.
Introduction Warnings In order to avoid any problems during the operation of the instrument, follow the rules listed below: • Read this manual thoroughly before you operate the instrument for the first time. • Use the instrument for the intended purpose only. • Never connect the instrument to a high voltage output such as a power amplifier, mains power plug, etc. • Do not disassemble the instrument. • Never use the instrument in a damp environment.
Introduction Overview The Minilyzer ML1 is a sophisticated audio test instrument, supporting a wide range of useful measurement functions.
Introduction Battery Replacement After unpacking, insert three (3) pcs. 1.5 V alkaline batteries, type AA, LR6, AM3 into the ML1 battery compartment as shown in Fig 1 and Fig 2. The typical life-time for a set of alkaline batteries is 16 hours. Fig 1.1 Open Battery Compartment NOTES Fig 1.2 Inserted Batteries • We do not recommend to use rechargeable NiCd- or NiMH-batteries. • Do not insert batteries of different types. • Note the correct polarities of the inserted batteries.
Basic Operation 2. Basic Operation Despite the wide range of available measurement functions and optional setups, the operation of the Minilyzer is almost selfexplanatory. Fig 2.1 Display & Control Elements The LCD is divided in the menu bar on top (measurement function, filter, setup and running / low battery) and the results displayed below are showing various information’s about the current status.
Basic Operation Power ON/OFF - Backlight The yellow, oval-shaped key on the right hand side has the following functions: • Device on, press and hold it for at least one second to turn the unit on. • Backlight, press it shortly to activate the backlight. • Device off, press and hold it for at least two second to turn the unit off. The Minilyzer will start up in the same mode (e.g. measurement function) and with the same settings as it was switched off the last time.
Basic Operation Enter / Cursor Control The cursor is the core control element of ML1, providing access to its menus and to the current instrument settings. The cursor position is represented by an inverted display (white on black) of the field holding the cursor. The cursor may be moved from menu to menu by using the four gray arrow keys , , and . The enter key (↵) has to be pressed to enter a submenu or to confirm the current selection.
Basic Operation Menu Bar The menu bar, located at the top of the LCD, allows the user to select the measurement function, to activate a filter or to enter the setup screen. The field on the right hand side displays the battery voltage status of the unit. To make any selection move the cursor to one of the menu bar fields and press the enter key. a. Selection of Measurement Function Fig 2.
Basic Operation b. Selection of Filters Fig 2.3 Example of Filter Submenu There are two sets of filters with the following characteristics available: Set 1: FLAT A-WTD C-MESS HP22 HP60 HP400 VOICE Flat frequency response (no filtering) A-weighting filter acc. IEC 60651 C-Message filter acc. CCIR Rec. 468-4 Highpass 22 Hz acc. DIN 45045, -120 dB/dec. Highpass 60 Hz acc. DIN 45045, -120 dB/dec. Highpass 400 Hz acc. DIN 45045, -120 dB/dec. Voice band filter acc. ITU-T P.
Basic Operation c. Setup The setup screen allows to customize basic settings of the Minilyzer ML1 by the following procedure: • Move the cursor to the corresponding field and press enter • Select the required status by using the arrow keys • Press the enter key to confirm Fig 2.4 Setup Screen AUTO POWER OFF defines the time after the ML1 is switched OFF automatically after the last key-press. The available settings are 3 MIN, 10 MIN, 30 MIN, 60 MIN and DISABLE.
Basic Operation Fig 2.5 Multiple User Startup Screen NOTE d. Only the last recorded sweep curves will be stored independent on the selected user setup. Low Battery Indicator The "MEM" field is displayed in the right hand field of the ML1 menu bar. Alternatively, if the inserted batteries are almost exhausted, this field will show a battery-low indicator . NOTE As soon as the batteries are discharged, they must be removed from the ML1, in order to avoid damage due to leakage. Fig 2.
Basic Operation Inputs and Monitor Output On top of the ML1, three connectors as well as the internal microphone are located: • The XLR and RCA inputs allow to feed a signal to the ML1. • A 3.5 mm (1/8“) jack monitor output allows the connection of a headphone. Thus, the user may hear the input signal. • The internal microphone provides the possibility to test the polarity of an acoustical signal if the NTi Audio’s Minirator polarity check signal is played back.
Measurement Functions 3. Measurement Functions Level RMS LEVEL RMS reflects the absolute level of the line input signal. Measurement Function Active Filter Signal Balance Frequency Bargraph Zoom Mode Level RMS Result and Unit Bargraph Zoom Control Display Filter Bargraph with Scaling Information Fig 3.1 Level RMS Meter Panel To enter the LEVEL RMS mode, select LEVEL -> RMS in the measurement functions submenu.
Measurement Functions actual range or the up/down keys to increase or decrease the range (sensitivity) of the bargraph scale. • Press enter to confirm your setting. Display Filter: see Display Mode NOTES • For balanced input levels higher than +20 dBu, the ML1 Adapter -20dB may be applied. (for details see Accessories). • The LEVEL RMS function is also available in the SWEEP mode and in 1/3rd OCT.
Measurement Functions Sound Pressure Level In the LEVEL SPL mode the Minilyzer measures the integratedaveraging level over time, the actual, minimum and maximum sound pressure level. NOTES • For this function a self powered microphone is required. NTi Audio does recommend to use the accessory MiniSPL (for details see Accessories). • Prior the first measurement the Minilyzer has to be calibrated to the microphone specifications. As default the ML1 is calibrated according the MiniSPL.
Measurement Functions Start of measurement: The sound pressure level measurement is re-started every time • The LEVEL SPL screen is entered • The filter selection is changed. • The clock is reset. • The time weighting selection is changed. • The bargraph range selection (RNGE) is changed. Sound Pressure Level: The equivalent continuous sound pressure level (also time-averaged sound level) is indicated in dBLeq, dBLAeq, dBLCeq, depending on the selected filter in the filter menu.
Measurement Functions Time weighting: All sound pressure level measurements include time weighting. A change in sound pressure level is read out on the display with a shorter or longer response time. Available response times, corresponding to IEC 60651, are • SLOW (long attack- and release time) • FAST (short attack- and release time) • IMP (=impulse, very short attack and long release time) Bargraph: The bargraph provides an analog display of the actual sound pressure level.
Measurement Functions By exceeding the primary indicator range four overload arrows replacing the dBLeq reading and no reading below is shown (see Fig. 13). Select the right arrow below RNGE and press enter to change to the next higher bargraph range. In case signal clipping has occurred the term OVL is flashing above the RNGE field as long as this peak, is significant influencing the integrating sound pressure level reading. For example an SPL peak for 0.1 sec.
Measurement Functions Setting of recording time The maximum recording time (END) of the sound pressure level logging depends on the remaining memory and the selected test interval period (T). The logger may record a maximum of 1500 points over a custom defined time. Fig 3.6 SPL Logging Setting The test interval period (T) can be defined by the user in the format hh:mm:ss. Review logging records When checking the recorded data in the memory overview, the “SPL/LEQ LOG DATA“ screen is displayed.
Measurement Functions c. Calibration Panel The Minilyzer ML1 enables the calibration of microphones, such as the MiniSPL. Fig 3.8 Calibration Panel Select CALIB. in the LEVEL SPL panel field. Press the enter key and the calibration screen SET SENSITIVITY ... will be displayed (Fig 14). The following three calibration modes are available: TO DEFAULT MINISPL-MIC: All MiniSPL are factory calibrated to a sensitivity of 20.0 mV/Pa. Reset to default setting: • Select the GO! field on the left.
Measurement Functions be displayed to inform the user about the detailed problem. • The new sensitivity is calculated by the Minilyzer and shown below USING EXT. REF.: in mV/Pa. • Press the ESC button to exit the calibration mode and return to the LEVEL SPL screen. • Check the calibration by applying the reference signal again to the attached microphone. The sound pressure level of the calibrator shall be shown to confirm the calibration is carried out in good order.
Measurement Functions THD+N In this mode the Minilyzer measures the THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise) and the k2 - k5 harmonic distortion. Input Level (RMS) Fig 3.10 THD+N Meter Panel The measurement is carried out in the band from 10 Hz - 20 kHz, expressed in dB or in %. Simultaneously, the LCD shows the actual RMS input level or the 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th harmonics distortion below the THD+N result. NOTE The THD+N results are calculated using a restricted measuring bandwidth of 10 Hz - 20 kHz.
Measurement Functions vu + PPM ML1 provides vu + PPM (Peak Program Meter) measurement results, following IEC60268. Numerical Peak-Hold Reference Level Graphical Peak-Hold Integration Time Reference Indicator Fig 3.11 vu + PPM (Type I) Panel The PPM may be measured according to three standards: • Type I • Type IIA • Nordic standard One of these standards has to be selected when entering the vu+PPM mode through the measurement functions menu.
Measurement Functions The following examples explain the correlation between the reference level and the reference indicator.
Measurement Functions Polarity The polarity test function detects the correct cable and speaker polarity in combination with the Minirator. The Minilyzer provides the following test configurations: a. Speaker polarity test Feed the speaker system with the polarity-test signal of the Minirator and adjust the level (at Minirator or amplifier) that the test signal is good to hear. Minilyzer settings: Fig 3.
Measurement Functions An overrange indicator appears for levels exceeding the instruments operating range. In this case increase the distance between microphone and loudspeaker or reduce the volume. b. Cable polarity test Use the polarity test signal of the Minirator to feed the cable under test. The Minilyzer analyzes the signal polarity at the other end of the cable. Minilyzer settings: • IN: XLR/RCA, • Mode: Cable Fig 3.
Measurement Functions Signal Balance Error The signal balance error reflects the deviation from the perfect balance status. No signal balance error indicates that the absolute levels at XLR-pin 2 and pin 3 relative to pin 1 (ground) are identical and opposite in polarity. Frequency of Signal Balance Balance Indicator Input Signal Error XLR-pin 2,3 Bargraph Zoom Mode Input Level-RMS Bargraph Zoom Control Bargraph with Scaling Information Fig 3.
Measurement Functions Sweep ML1 supports two sweep modes: • LEVEL RMS as function of frequency • LEVEL RMS, THD+N and Frequency as function of time The required sweep mode may be selected through the SWEEP entry of the measurement function submenu. a. Frequency Sweep During a frequency sweep, ML1 records the LEVEL RMS of every input signal that has a stable frequency and level, provided that the frequency is higher than the one of the previous sample (otherwise the sample will be neglected).
Measurement Functions • Arm the sweep recording process by moving the cursor to the REC field and press the enter key. Make sure that the signal generator is at its lowest sweep frequency when the recording process is starting. • The unit detects the start tone (315 Hz or 1 kHz) of an external sweep and as soon the frequency changes the recording is automatically started. This status is indicated by the flashing REC field.
Measurement Functions b. Time Sweep In the TIME SWEEP mode, ML1 records a user-defined number of measurements in selectable time intervals. Curve Arrow Mode X-Axis Scroll Indicator REC / Stop Control Mean / Min-Max Mode Y-Axis Zoom Mode Scaling refers to this line Readout Line Arrow Readout Fig 3.
Measurement Functions A dialog box will open (Fig 3.18) on the graph, where the sweep duration (min. 60 sec - max. battery lifetime) and the recording interval (≥ 1 sec) have to be entered. Please note that the number of samples must be between 60 - 1600. Fig 3.18 Time Sweep Setup • To start the sweep recording, move the cursor to the GO! field and press enter. • The time sweep automatically stops when the defined duration has expired.
Measurement Functions 1/3rd Octave RMS The 1/3rd OCTAVE RMS screen shows the signal frequency spectrum of the line-in signal, divided into 31 bands. Arrow Readout 1/3rd Octave Spectrum Arrow Mode Run/Pause Scaling of Y-Axis Zoom (Y-Axis) Time Constant Bargraph of Level-RMS (fullband) Fig 3.19 1/3rd Octave RMS Screen To enter the 1/3rd OCTAVE RMS mode, select 1/3rd OCT. -> RMS in the measurement functions submenu.
Measurement Functions Zoom (Y-Axis): The scaling of the spectrum’s Y-axis (sensitivity) is fixed and may be adjusted manually. • Select the zoom (Y-axis) field and press the enter key. • Use the up/down keys to scroll the displayed level along the Yaxis and the left/right keys zoom out/in the Y-axis, e.g. alter the resolution of the division. Time Constant: The time constant corresponds to the integration time of the 1/3rd octave recording. It may be set to five value: 0.2 / 0.5 / 1.0 / 2.0 / 5.0 seconds.
Measurement Functions To enter the 1/3rd OCTAVE SPL mode (Fig 3.20), select 1/3rd OCT. -> SPL in the measurement functions submenu. Arrow Readout: The arrow readout displays the frequency and the level of the 1/3rd octave band that it points to. The arrow automatically points to the highest level in the 1/3rd octave spectrum, or, alternatively may be controlled manually. Arrow Mode: The arrow readout may be moved manually to a certain specific 1/3rd octave band.
Measurement Functions Scope To activate the SCOPE mode, select the entry SCOPE in the measurement functions menu. Measurement Function Y-Axis Scale X-Axis Scale Fundamental Frequency Fig 3.21 Scope Screen The SCOPE screen visualizes the waveform of the input signal. It automatically triggers to the fundamental frequency and selects the scaling of the X-axis (time) and Y-axis (level) accordingly.
Induction Loop Mode 4. Induction Loop Mode (optional) The induction loop mode is available upon installation of the MiniLINK PC interface. The Minilyzer simplifies verifications and adjustments of AFILS (Audio Frequency Induction Loop Systems). AFIL systems are used in public buildings to increase the speech intelligibility for users of hearing aids. Most hearing aids have a built in magnetic coil receiving audio signals generated by induction loop systems.
Measurement Functions Induction Loop Measurement Menu The Minilyzer restarts with an specific new AFILS measurement menu including • Level, fast weighted • Level, slow weighting • Level, PPM • THD+N • F-Sweep, frequency sweep • 1/3rd oct. spectrum analyzer • Scope • Calibrate Fig 4.2 Induction Loop Menu Units mA/m, dBL The magnetic field strength is measured in A/m (Ampere per meter). AFIL systems use 400mA/m as a reference level.
Induction Loop Mode Calibration An induction loop receiver transforms a magnetic field strength to an electrical level. The receiver sensitivity is specified within the technical data. Before a valid measurement can be started the ML1 sensitivity setting must be adjusted accordingly. Fig 4.3 Calibration Panel Filters The ML1 has a built-in A-weighting and a HP400 (high pass 400Hz) filter, which may be activated using the filter menu. For detailed test requirements please refer to the IEC 60118 standard.
Measurement Functions Level Fast, Level Slow Level of the magnetic field strength measured in accordance to IEC60804 (sound pressure level time weighting) with different integration times: Fig 4.5 Level Fast: 125ms Fig 4.6 Level Slow 1s Level PPM Level of the magnetic field strength measured with a ppm like peak detector (type IIa). • Integration time: 10 ms • dBLp = dB Loop peak Fig 4.7 Level PPM Screen THD+N Total harmonic distortion + noise Please refer to the earlier pages for more details. Fig 4.
Measurement Functions FSweep Frequency Sweep recording; Please refer to the earlier pages for more details. The frequency tracking will not work if mains frequency components dominate the input signal. Activating the HP400 filter will attenuate all main frequency components and a frequency recording is possible. Fig 4.9 F-Sweep Screen 1/3rd Octave 1/3rd octave spectrum analyzer This function shows the spectrum of the input signal in 1/3 octave bands.
Troubleshooting 5. Troubleshooting System Break Down • Switch the device off. • Reset the ML1 to the default status by pressing the ESC button and switching the Minilyzer on simultaneously. • Release the ESC button. • The below screenshot, Fig 26, shall appear on the display, stating on the bottom line LOADING DEFAULT SETUP. • Verify the correct operation. Fig 5.
Accessories 6. Accessories MiniSPL The MiniSPL is the perfect accessory for acoustical measurements. Together with the Minilyzer ML1 a comprehensive integrating sound level meter is formed. The MiniSPL is a self contained omni directional 1/2" measuring microphone with built in impedance converter, pre-amplifier and power supply. It is battery powered and the XLR-output is balanced. The MiniSPL is classified as type 2 in accordance with IEC 60651. Fig 6.
Accessories ML1 Adapter -20dB The ML1 Adapter -20dB may be applied for balanced input levels higher than +20 dBu. This passive adapter extends the balanced input range of your Minilyzer up to +40 dBu. Starting April 2004 this adapter is supplied with pin1-fuse for safe operation in combination with the USB interface MiniLINK. Fig 6.3 ML1 Adapter -20 dB Pouch The soft pouch protects your Minstrument against shocks, dust and water.
Technical Specification 7. Technical Specification Technical Data General Functions Measurements - Level-RMS, Level-Relative, Frequency - THD+N - vu+PPM - Polarity Test - Signal Balance Error - Sweep, Frequency Sweep, Time Sweep - 1/3rd Octave Spectrum - Scope, Frequency - AFILS measurements (with MiniLINK) Frequency Range Resolution Accuracy 10 Hz to 20 kHz 4 digits < ± 0.
Technical Specification Signal Balance Error Indication range 0.0 % to 100 % Deviation from perfect balance in % or *1 Sweep Frequency Sweep: Level as function of frequency. Time Sweep: Measurement of level, THD+N and frequency as function of time. 1/3rdOctave Spectrum acc. IEC 1260, class II and ANSI S1.
Technical Specification Technical Data Acoustic Functions Measurements - Sound Pressure Level - 1/3rd Octave Spectrum Acoustical Functions in accordance with IEC61672, Class 2 • Instantaneous Sound Pressure Level (Lp) • Maximum/Minimum Sound Pressure Level (Lmax/Lmin) • Time Response selectable • Weighting Filters • Equivalent Continuous Sound Pressure Level (Leq) • Pause- and Continue Function Sound Pressure Level Units dBSPL, dBLeq, dBLAeq, dBLCeq Resolution 3 digits Display Ranges 20 - 140 dBSPL in
Test & Calibration Certificate This is to certify the Minilyzer ML1 is fully tested to the manufacturer’s specifications. NTi Audio recommends to calibrate this test instrument one (1) year after purchase. Thereafter the calibration- and adjustment interval is subsequently one (1) year.
Quick Guide Minilyzer ML1 Menu Bar Measurement Display Escape Enter/Cursor Control Keys On / Off (2 sec) Measurement Function Menu: LEVEL THD+N VU+PPM POLARITY RMS REL SPL TYPE I TYPE IIA NORDIC SWEEP FREQUENCY TIME 1/3rd OCTAVE RMS SPL SCOPE 2000 TD 01.
