2-Wire Interfaces
The Model 45A's 2-wire interface is optimised for direct connection with dual-channel party-line (PL) intercom circuits such as the TW-Series of intercoms from RTS®. In addition, other industry-standard single- and dual-channel PL intercom circuits, including those from Clear-Com®, are compatible.
The Model 45A's 2-wire interface can correctly function with powered ("wet") or unpowered ("dry") intercom circuits. An auto-terminate function ensures that should a "wet" circuit not be connected, the Model 45A's interface circuitry will remain stable. This unique feature makes certain that objectionable audio signals, including oscillations and "squeals," won't be sent to the connected 4-wire device.
A significant capability of the Model 45A's 2-wire interface is its ability to supply DC power and 200 ohm AC terminations to "create" an intercom circuit. The 30 V output can power a limited number of devices such as user stations and beltpacks. With up to 300 milliamperes (mA) of current available, a typical broadcast application that uses two or three BP325 beltpacks can easily be supported. In many applications this can eliminate the need for an external intercom power supply, reducing total system cost, weight, and required mounting space.
Analog Hybrids with Auto Nulling
The 2-wire-to-4-wire hybrids provides low noise and distortion, good frequency response, and high return-loss ("nulling"), even when presented with a wide range of 2-wire conditions. Unlike telephone-line ("POTS") oriented DSP-based hybrid circuits, the Model 45A's analog circuitry maintains extended frequency response. With a pass band of 100 Hz on the low end and 8 kHz on the high end, natural-sounding voice signals can be sent to, and received from, a 2-wire party-line circuit.
The Model 45As sophisticated auto nulling function uses analog circuitry under microprocessor control to achieve significant trans-hybrid loss. This return-loss "null" is achieved by making a series of software-directed adjustments to account for the resistive, inductive, and capacitive conditions that are present on the connected 2-wire party-line circuit. Whenever a user presses the Model 45A's auto null button digital circuitry adjusts the analog hybrids to achieve their maximum return-loss for both interface channels in less than 15 seconds. While the nulling process is automatic, it only takes place upon user request. The resulting null parametres are stored in non-volatile memory.
4-Wire Interfaces
Associated with the 4-wire portion of the Model 45A's interface are analog line-level inputs and outputs. These are intended to interconnect with a variety of 4-wire devices, including matrix intercom systems, audio-over-fibre transmission systems, and other specialised audio equipment. The input and output circuitry is transformer-coupled to minimize the chance that hum, noise, or "ground-loop" issues will occur. The 4 dBu nominal level allows standard audio signals to be directly connected.
The Model 45A contains four 5-segment LED level metres. Two metres display the level of the signals being received from the 4-wire sources and two display the level being sent to the 4-wire outputs. At the time of installation and setup the metres are invaluable in helping to confirm correct operation. During normal operation the metres offer rapid confirmation of audio signal flow in and out of the unit. Additional LED indicators are also provided, offering a status indication of the party-line DC power and auto null functions. Two other LEDs offer a direct indication of what source is powering the Model 45A.
Pro Audio Quality
The Model 45A's audio circuitry was designed in the spirit of professional audio equipment rather than that found in typical party-line intercom gear. High-performance components are used throughout, providing low-distortion, low-noise, and high headroom. Using passive and active filters the frequency response is limited to nominally 100 Hz to 8 kHz. This range was selected to provide excellent performance for human speech while maximizing the ability of the hybrid circuits to create substantial "nulls." Moreover, the Model 45A's 2-wire DC power source offers a unique level of performance; its ability to deliver power while maintaining audio quality is simply.
Performance Flexibility
While the Model 45A is designed to directly integrate into typical applications, it's ready to support those "one-in-a-million" situations too. To accomplish this DIP switches, located on the front panel, allow selected features to be revised as required.