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Studio Technologies Model 42A Line-Level Audio to IFB Circuit Interface

Product Code: ST-M42A

Key Features
The Model 42A is designed to create broadcast-standard IFB outputs from line-level audio sources. The unit's primary application is to interface analog outputs associated with digital matrix intercom systems with broadcast IFB user devices. The Model 42A creates four independent IFB outputs. For convenience, the four outputs can be connected by way of eight 3-pin male XLR connectors; four of which are located on the back panel and four on the front. Each IFB output provides DC power and two analog audio signals to support the connected IFB user devices. The Model 42A's audio quality is excellent; little hiss, hum, or other artifacts are present. To ensure optimal operation, the unit provides resources for visually and audibly monitoring the audio output signals. In addition, the DC output voltage is monitored for fault conditions.
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Studio Technologies Model 42A Line-Level Audio to IFB Circuit Interface

Installation of the Model 42A is very simple. Audio input connections are made using a 25-pin D-subminiature connector. The IFB output circuits interface using standard 3-pin XLR connectors. The compact, one-rack-space package is constructed using rugged steel and aluminum components. The unit's AC mains power input can range from 100 to 240 V, 50/60 hertz. This "universal input" ensures correct operation virtually anywhere in the world.

There may be persons not familiar with the term IFB. That's not unreasonable as it's a somewhat obscure acronym for interruptible foldback. On its own, the term foldback is an alternate way of describing a cue or monitor function. Adding "interruptible" before it means that the cue source can be temporarily replaced with an audio signal originating from a producer, director, or other production personnel. IFB outputs are often used in the broadcast industry for talent cueing applications, both in studio and field settings.

Both "dry" and "wet" IFB outputs can be deployed and their characteristics are worth reviewing. The term "dry" IFB typically refers to a transformer-balanced line-level audio circuit with a nominal level in the range of 0 to 8 dBu. This is essentially a standard analog audio circuit that is commonly used to interconnect audio equipment. The term "wet" IFB refers to a circuit that combines DC power and one or two channels of analog audio. The DC power source is typically in the range of 30 to 32 V. The audio is unbalanced with a typical nominal level of –10 dBu. The Model 42A implements "wet" IFB outputs. As such, in this user guide the term IFB will always indicate this type of circuit.

IFB outputs provide an effective means of delivering power and two channels of audio to user devices by means of standard audio cables. These cables, ubiquitous to the audio industry, interface using 3-pin male and female XLR connectors. Using IFB outputs and standard audio cables it's a simple matter to support user devices such as listen-only beltpacks and announcer's consoles with no external power source required. Whether the IFB source and user devices are 100 or 1000 feet apart, reliable operation can almost always be provided.

In many cases, the Model 42A Interface will be used in on-air television applications. Whether installed in a fixed location or as part of a mobile facility, the unit is capable of providing excellent performance. In addition, the Model 42A can be used for non-broadcast applications. For example, audio recording and post-production facilities can also effectively use the Model 42A. Combined with stereo or mono listen-only beltpacks, also available from Studio Technologies, a variety of headphone cue systems can easily be deployed. And since the Model 42A's audio inputs are compatible with standard line-level audio signals virtually any analog source can be connected.

Four Independent IFB Outputs

The Model 42A supplies four independent IFB outputs. Each circuit consists of two audio inputs and a 2-channel "wet" IFB output. The audio inputs are transformer coupled, have a nominal level of 4 dBu, and are compatible with balanced or unbalanced sources. In on-air television broadcast applications the audio sources will often be analog outputs from matrix intercom systems. Two sources are typically designated to serve as a 2-channel user cue signal. Generally one source is configured in the matrix intercom system as "interrupt" while the other is configured as "program." An alternate term often used for the "interrupt" channel is "program-with-interrupt." This may be more descriptive as the function is actually a program source that gets interrupted with talkback audio. The "program" channel is typically a continuous source of program audio. An alternate term is "program-only."

For other applications, the Model 42A's audio inputs can be connected to a 2-channel or stereo audio source. This configuration may prove useful in radio broadcasting, audio-with-picture, or recording studio applications. The specific application will dictate whether both cue signals will be utilized by the end user. In on-air sports broadcast situations a "double-muff" (stereo) headset will provide a user with both audio channels, one for each ear. In interview or news-gathering applications it's common to use a single "earpiece" to provide a user with only program-with-interrupt audio.

Maintaining excellent audio performance was a major Model 42A design goal—the hiss, hum, and noise associated with typical IFB outputs was simply not acceptable. The Model 42A meets those requirements with audio that is "on-air" quality: low distortion, high signal-to-noise ratio, and ample headroom. On-air talent and guests, production personnel, and technicians will all appreciate the clean, quiet cue signals.

Warranty

We offer a 3 year warranty on this product from its date of purchase. For more information regarding our support, repair and warranty, please download our Warranty Guide here.

Trade Terms
The above item is non-returnable, unless defective. Please ensure part numbers and descriptions are as required before placing this order. If any confirmation or information is required please contact AV Sales on 1800 00 77 80.
General Audio:
Frequency Response – Pin 2 Output (DC with Channel 1 Audio):
     0/–3 dB, 20 Hz-20 kHz; 0/–1 dB, 100 Hz-20 kHz
Frequency Response – Pin 3 Output (Channel 2 Audio):
     0/–3 dB, 20 Hz-20 kHz; 0/–1 dB, 100 Hz-20 kHz
Distortion (THD N) – Pin 2 Output (DC with Channel 1 Audio):
    0.05%, measured at 1 kHz, 4 dBu
S/N Ratio – Pin 2 Output (DC with Channel 1 Audio):
    86 dB, ref 4 dBu out, A-weighted
Audio Inputs: 8, organized as four 2-channel inputs
Type: transformer balanced, capacitor coupled, compatible with balanced or unbalanced sources
Impedance: 10 k ohms, nominal
Nominal Level: 4 dBu
IFB Circuits: 4
Type: DC power with two channels of unbalanced audio ("wet" IFB)
Connections:
    Pin 1: common
    Pin 2: 30 Vdc (nominal) modulated with channel 1 audio (–10 dBu nominal)
    Pin 3: channel 2 audio (–10 dBu nominal)
Maximum Audio Output Level:
    Pin 2: 9 dBu with 23 dBu on audio input
    Pin 3: 14 dBu with 28 dBu on audio input
DC Current Output: 220 mA maximum

Monitor Section – Headphone Output:
Type: 2-channel (stereo), drives headphones by way of 100 ohm series resistors
Compatibility: intended for connection to headphones with impedance of 100 ohms or greater
Maximum Voltage: 8 Vpp, 100 ohm load
Monitor Section – Output Voltage Detection:
Measures DC voltage level directly on pin 2 of IFB output connector pairs. Status LEDs flash when level is less than approximately 24 Vdc.
Connectors:
Audio Inputs: 25-pin female D-subminiature, 4-40 threads on locking hardware (two places)
IFB Outputs: 8 (two per IFB output), 3-pin male XLR
Headphone Output: ¼-inch 3-conductor phone jack
AC Mains: 3-blade, IEC 320 C14 (mates with IEC 320 C13 connector)
AC Mains Requirement: 100-240 V (±10%), 50/60 Hz, 40 watts maximum
Dimensions (Overall):
19.0 inches wide (48.3 cm)
1.72 inches high (4.4 cm)
6.4 inches deep (16.3 cm)
Mounting: one space (1U) in a standard 19-inch rack enclosure
Weight: 3.7 pounds (1.7 kg)

Specifications subject to change without notice.

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