BASIS 914lz 4X16 CobraNet Enabled Control and Monitoring Signal Processor Hardware Manual *TD-000200-00* TD-000200-00 rev.
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS & EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous” voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in this manual.
Don’t want to read the entire manual? Just want to dig right in? Go to page 18.... Introduction The BASIS 914lz provides the digital audio transport, signal processing, control and status monitoring facilities needed to bind a group of amplifiers and loudspeakers into an integrated functioning system. In conjunction with QSControl.
Introduction (continued) 0.396 milliseconds. When analog input and analog outputs are used, the total delay is 2.354 milliseconds. The delay does not change regardless of the DSP configuration, unless the configuration intentionally adds more delay. The BASIS 914lz also supports the new optional low-latency CobraNet feature that provides transport at only 2.66 milliseconds delay.
Introduction - Networking the BASIS 914lz The BASIS 914lz has two RJ-45 network connection ports on the rear panel. One port is labeled "QSControl" and supports standard 10BASE-T Ethernet. The other port is labeled "CobraNet" and supports 100BASE-TX, also known as "Fast Ethernet". In the following sections we describe the use of these ports and show example network connection schemes.
Third, the BASIS 914lz and QSControl.net system are targeted at network switch deployments. The consumer costs of Ethernet switches have continued to fall over the last several years and are now comparable with repeaters on a per port basis. In addition, the sophistication and scalability of network switches make them ideal for new installations. However, we do realize that designers may wish to add BASIS products to existing audio network installations that are built on repeater LAN topologies.
Example #2 - CobraNet X-over mode: This is the simplest connection you can make between two BASIS boxes. Use a CAT-5 crossover cable connected between the CobraNet ports of each unit. No network switch is required. This connection allows audio to pass between the two BASIS boxes over CobraNet. Combining example 1 and 2 lets you setup and monitor one box at a time, much as you would have to do using a point-to-point RS232 connection, while passing audio between them, all without a network switch.
Example #3 - Single Wire Interface: Here all QSControl.net and CobraNet traffic shares the same single CAT-5 cable between the BASIS 914lz and an unmanaged Ethernet switch. The QSControl.net system manages traffic flow efficiently and reliably so that all audio and control data is delivered to its appropriate destination anywhere on the network. Though the example shows only two BASIS 914lz units, as many devices may be connected as there are available switch ports.
Example #4 - Two-Wire Interface (shared network hardware): This example illustrates the Two-Wire Interface with a managed Ethernet switch. The switch is configured with multiple virtual local area networks (VLANs). Ethernet deliveries can only reach destination ports belonging to the same VLAN from which it was sourced. The figure shows a separate VLAN for QSControl.net traffic and a separate VLAN for CobraNet audio traffic.
Example #5 - Two-Wire Interface (separate network hardware): Example #5 is conceptually similar to example #4. The difference here is that separate networks are created by providing each local area network (LAN) with its own network switch. Therefore, traffic segmentation is physical rather than logical. Example #5 also provides an additional level of fault tolerance, although at the expense of additional network hardware. The figure shows a separate network switch for QSControl.
Unpacking There are no special unpacking precautions. However, it is recommended you keep the original packing material for reuse in the rare event that service be required. If service is required and the original packing material is not available, ensure that the unit is adequately protected for shipment (strong box of appropriate size, sufficient packing material to prevent load-shifting or impact damage) or call QSC’s Technical Services Department for packing material and a carton.
Computer Requirements & Software Installation Installing QSControl.net is easy. All you need to do is choose the folder where the program is to be stored (the default setting is acceptable for most applications). We recommend your system meet the following minimum requirements: 1- IBM PC compatible computer with a Pentium 4 processor. 2- Processor speed of 1 GHz (2 GHz or faster recommended for systems with 30 or more BASIS/RAVE/DSP units).
General Information & Configuration Memories Amplifier Setup The QSC DataPort-equipped amplifiers connected to the BASIS 914lz must have their power switches in the “on” position. For initial testing, use the lowest useful gain setting until the system is operating as expected. After the system setup has been verified and tested, gain settings may be adjusted as required. Network The network should be operable and QSControl.net software should be installed/running on the system controller computer.
Connections AC Power Cord Insert the molded receptacle of the AC power cord into the AC power inlet on the back of the BASIS 914lz. Plug the AC line connector into the AC outlet. The power supply will accept from 100 to 240 Volts AC, 47 to 440 Hertz, without any changes. If a different type of IEC power cord is required than supplied with your 914lz, contact QSC’s Technical Services Department. CobraNet and QSControl connection. Accepts ruggedized or normal shell-less RJ45 plugs.
RS-232 The RS-232 is an optional utility serial port for accessing advanced features. Connect to an available COM port on your PC and communicate using a terminal control program such as Windows Hyperterminal. Use a normal serial data cable with a DB-9 male plug to connect to the BASIS 914lz. To connect the cable, orient the connector properly, then push into the receptacle until it is firmly seated; tighten the retaining screws “finger tight”.
LED Indicators (continued) QSControl and CobraNet Network Status (Port) Indicators- There are two groups of three LEDs on the front and rear panels labeled RX, TX and LINK. One group is for the QSControl.net network port and the other for the CobraNet network port. Their functions are described below. Note: Port indicators on rear panel are color coded to match the corresponding color-ring around the QSControl and CobraNet RJ45s.
LCD Navigation Map Left side buttons have screen dependent functions. This read-only screen is the “out of the box” default display after power up. This is the most desired information when first setting up a network system. Once user moves to a different screen, the last screen accessed becomes the new power up default. Use rotary data wheel to edit data. Rotate to move cursor and push to accept change. Boot Screen Right side buttons serve as up/down navigation.
Getting Started This section outlines one of the simpler methods of getting familiar with your BASIS and the QSControl.net software. The goal of this procedure is to get your computer and the BASIS connected and communicating and the QSControl.net software installed and running. After the software is installed and running, refer to the software’s Help file for all software related operation/issues. Note! The default password for the BASIS is “qsc” (no quotes, lower case).
Getting Started (continued) 17- Select Device, Add Device, from the menu. A new window will open prompting you to name the device. Name it logically, such as BASIS 1, or similar. Select the Device Type and select BASIS 914lz. At the Password prompt, enter “qsc” (lower case, no quotation marks). This is the device password, separate from the software password. The default, in both cases, is “qsc”, but you are free to change either or both. Enter the IP address of the BASIS and click OK.
Operation QSControl Port The QSControl port operates on a 10BaseT Ethernet network. This port is one of the primary means for connecting QSControl.net to the BASIS. The port may connect directly to a PC's 10BaseT or 10/100 (auto-sensing or auto-negotiating) network interface card using a crossover cable. Data from the QSControl port may also pass through network repeaters, network switches and routers.
Utility/Diagnostic Functions Safe Mode Switch Location of Safe Mode switch: The front panel has a small access hole on the left side, just left of the Power indicator. It is not labeled to help prevent accidental use. The Safe Mode switch can be operated by using a paper-clip (or similar item) inserted into the access hole and pushing. Safe Mode: Use if the BASIS 914lz becomes inoperable (or behaves in completely unexpected ways) after updating firmware.
Utility/Diagnostic Functions (continued) RS-232 Communications Procedure: 1) Connect the RS-232 port of the BASIS 914lz to an unused serial port (COM port) of a PC using a normal (straight-through) serial cable. 2) Open the HyperTerminal program. This program is usually started by clicking the Windows START icon, highlighting PROGRAMS, then ACCESSORIES, COMMUNICATIONS, and finally, highlighting the Hyper Terminal folder and clicking on its icon.
Utility/Diagnostic Functions (continued) Telnet Access The RS-232 features can also be accessed via Telnet. The Microsoft Telnet application is a Windows program. Consult Windows documentation for Telnet information. Basic procedure for opening a Telnet session: 1- To open the Telnet session- Click START, select RUN, type “Telnet” followed by a space, then the IP address of the BASIS 914lz you want to communicate with in the text box and click OK.
Preliminary Specification IN Dynamic Range (AES-17, -60dB Method, all sensitivities) unweighted >112dB A weighted >115dB OUT THRU >112dB >115dB >110dB >113dB Distortion (20Hz-20 KHz, all sensitivities) +4dBu (max.) 2dB below clip (max.) <0.009% THD+N <0.009% THD+N <0.009% THD+N <0.009% THD+N <0.009% THD+N <0.
Preliminary Specification Omni Inputs Connector Type Configuration Pinout Normal Operating Range Potentiometer Operation Voltage Tolerance Current Output 2 discrete inputs for TTL logic, voltage control or passive resistive 2-pin "Phoenix Style" (a.k.a. "Euro Style") detachable terminal blocks Single-ended, ground referenced 1:+(Signal) 2:-(CHASSIS GND) Reads signals between 0-5V nominally Use 10K for full range +/- 48V 0.
Dimensions 26
How to Contact QSC Audio Products Mailing address: QSC Audio Products, Inc. 1675 MacArthur Boulevard Costa Mesa, CA 92626-1468 USA Telephone Numbers: Main Number (714) 754-6175 Sales & Marketing (714) 957-7100 or toll free (USA only) (800) 854-4079 Customer Service (714) 957-7150 or toll free (USA only) (800) 772-2834 Facsimile Numbers: Sales & Marketing FAX (714) 754-6174 Customer Service FAX (714) 754-6173 World Wide Web: www.qscaudio.com E-mail: info@qscaudio.com service@qscaudio.
