Nexo NX242 Manuel utilisateur

NX242 Digital TDcontroller

User Manual

Manuel d’Utilisation (p.40)

ENGLISH

PAGE 2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/9/2004

Declaration of conformity

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the safety objectives and essential requirements of European (73/23/EEC and

89/336/EEC directives) and international Standards, by fulfilling the requirements of the following harmonized standards:

Electrical Safety (EU) : IEC 60065 (12/2001) Audio, video and similar electronic apparatus

Electrical Safety (US) : UL60065 Seventh Edition, dated June 30, 2003 category AZSQ, E241312.

Electrical Safety (CAN) : CSA-C22.2 N°60065:03 Edition, dated April 2003 category AZSQ7, E241312

Electrical Safety (Rest of the World) : CB test certificate DK-8371 based on IEC60065-2001 7nd ed. with all national deviations.

Radiated Emission (EU) : EN55103-1 (1996) Electromagnetic compatibility - Product family standard for audio, video, audio-

visual and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use.

Radiated Emission (US) : FFC part15 class B

Radiated Emission (CAN) : This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

RF Immunity (EU) : EN55103-2 (1996) Electromagnetic compatibility - Product family standard for audio, video, audio-visual and

entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use.

Note: EMC conformance testing is based on the use of recommended cable types. The use of other cable types may degrade EMC

performances.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1) Read these instructions.

2) Keep these instructions.

3) Heed all warnings.

4) Follow all instructions.

5) Do not use this apparatus near water.

6) Clean only with dry cloth.

7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the

manufacturer’s instructions.

8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,

stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A

polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type

plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third

prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your

outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. (US

market)

10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at

plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the

apparatus.

11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long

periods of time.

14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required

when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply

cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the

apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not

operate normally, or has been dropped.

Information about products that generate electrical noise :

NOTE: The United States Federal Communications Commission (in 47 CFR

15.105) has specified that the following notice be brought to the attention of

users of this product:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a

Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are

designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a

residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the

instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular

installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or

television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off

and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or

more of the following measures:

- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which

the receiver is connected.

- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The user may find the following booklet, prepared by the Federal

Communications Commission, helpful: How to identify and Resolve Radio/TV

Interference Problems. This booklet is available from the U.S. Government

Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4. Use of

a shielded cable is required to comply within Class B limits of Part 15 of FCC

Rules. Pursuant to Part 15.21 of the FCC Rules, any changes or

modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by NEXO S.A. may

cause, harmful interference and void the FCC authorization to operate this

equipment.

WARNING ! This appliance is a CLASS 1 apparatus and must be earthed.

The green and yellow wire of the mains cord must always be connected to an installation safety earth or ground. The earth is essential for

personal safety as well as the correct operation of the system, and is internally connected to all exposed metal surfaces. Additional

recommendation for interconnection to other equipment can be found in the “Setting-Up Advice” section page 8.

To avoid electrical shock, do not remove covers.

Dangerous voltages exist inside.

Refer all servicing to qualified personnel only.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,

do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

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 persons.

The exclamation point within an

equilateral triangle is intended to

alert the user to the presence of

important operating and

maintenance (servicing) instructions

in the literature accompanying

the appliance.

10CE

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PAGE 3

INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 09/12/2004

Déclaration de conformité

Cet équipement a été testé et répond aux objectifs de sécurité et exigences essentielles de la directive 73/23/EEC sur les basses tensions et la

directive 89/336 EEC sur la compatibilité électromagnétique, notamment:

Sécurité électrique (EU) : IEC 60065 (12/2001) Appareils audio, vidéo et appareils électroniques analogues - Exigences de sécurité

Sécurité électrique (US) : UL60065 Seventh Edition, dated June 30, 2003 category AZSQ, E241312.

Sécurité électrique (CAN) : CSA-C22.2 N°60065:03 Edition, dated April 2003 category AZSQ7, E241312

Sécurité électrique (Reste du Monde) : Certificat OC DK-8371 basé sur IEC60065-2001 7eme ed. Toutes deviations

Emission rayonnée (EU) : EN55103-1 (1996) Compatibilité électromagnétique : Norme de famille de produits pour les appareils a

usage professionnel audio, vidéo, audiovisuels et de commande de lumière pour spectacles Partie 1 : émissions

Emission rayonnée (US) : FFC part15 class B

Emission rayonnée (CAN) : This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Immunité RF (EU) : EN55103-2 (1996) Compatibilité électromagnétique : Norme de famille de produits pour les appareils a usage

professionnel audio, vidéo, audiovisuels et de commande de lumière pour spectacles: Partie 2 : immunités

Note: Les tests de conformité électromagnétique ont été réalisés avec les câbles recommandés dans ce manuel. L’utilisation des

même câbles est nécessaire afin de rester dans le cadre des réglementations énoncées ci dessus.

INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

1) Lisez ces instructions.

2) Gardez ces instructions.

3) Tenez compte de tous les avertissements.

4) Suivez toutes les instructions.

5) N’utilisez pas cet appareil à proximité d’eau.

6) Nettoyez uniquement avec un chiffon sec.

7) Ne bloquez aucune ouverture de ventilation. Installez

conformément aux instructions du fabriquant.

8) N’installez pas à proximité d’une source de chaleur telle que

radiateur, chauffage, poêle, ou autre appareil (y compris

amplificateurs) qui produisent de la chaleur.

9) Ne supprimez pas le dispositif de sécurité de la prise polarisée

ou de terre.

10) Protégez le cordon secteur contre les pincements ou

piétinements en particulier à proximité des prises, des réceptacles

adaptés, et à l’endroit ou il sort de l’appareil

11) N’utilisez que des accessoires ou fixations spécifiées par le

fabriquant

13) Débranchez cet appareil pendant les orages ou lors d’une

longue période sans utilisation.

14) Confiez toute la maintenance à du personnel qualifié .La

maintenance est nécessaire quand l’appareil a été endommagé

d’une manière quelconque, comme le cordon d’alimentation

secteur endommagé, du liquide renversé ou des objets étant

tombés dans l’appareil, l’appareil ayant été exposé à la pluie ou à

l’humidité, ne fonctionne pas normalement, ou est tombé.

AVERTISSEMENT! Cet appareil appartient à la CLASSE 1 et doit être mis à la terre.

Le conducteur vert et jaune du câble secteur doit toujours être connecté à la terre de sécurité d'une installation. La terre est essentielle pour la

sécurité du personnel comme pour le bon fonctionnement du système. Elle est connectée à l'intérieur à toutes les surfaces métalliques

exposées. Des recommandations supplémentaires pour l'interconnection avec d'autres équipements se trouvent dans la section ″ ″ Page 44.

To avoid electrical shock, do not remove covers.

Dangerous voltages exist inside.

Refer all servicing to qualified personnel only.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,

do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

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 persons.

The exclamation point within an

equilateral triangle is intended to

alert the user to the presence of

important operating and

maintenance (servicing) instructions

in the literature accompanying

the appliance.

10CE

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udio Equipment

10CE

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udio Equipment

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PAGE 4

INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

TABLE OF CONTENT

NX242 VERSUS NX241: WHAT’S NEW ? ........................................................................................................................6

WHAT’S REMAIN THE SAME? ..................................................................................................................................................6

WHAT’S CHANGED?.................................................................................................................................................................6

QUICK START......................................................................................................................................................................7

RESET......................................................................................................................................................................................7

SELECTING CABINET FAMILY.....................................................................................................................................................7

SELECT YOUR CABINET SET-UP..................................................................................................................................................7

NAVIGATING MENUS .................................................................................................................................................................7

BACK TO DEFAULT ....................................................................................................................................................................7

AUTO SAVE ...............................................................................................................................................................................7

SETTING-UP ADVICE.........................................................................................................................................................8

MAINS POWER ..........................................................................................................................................................................8

VOLTAGE SETTING ....................................................................................................................................................................8

MOUNTING THE TDCONTROLLER IN A RACK (GROUNDING, SHIELDING & SAFETY ISSUES) .......................................................8

FUSE .........................................................................................................................................................................................8

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WIRING THE SENSE LINES ..................................................................................................................9

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WIRING THE AUDIO OUTPUTS.............................................................................................................9

ELECTROMAGNETIC ENVIRONMENTS ........................................................................................................................................9

ANALOGUE SIGNAL CABLES ......................................................................................................................................................9

GENERAL DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................................................................................12

GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE.......................................................................................................................................................12

SET-UP CONFIGURATIONS......................................................................................................................................................12

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION................................................................................................................................13

EQUALISATION & FILTERING ...............................................................................................................................................13

SUBSONIC AND VHF FILTERING (1).........................................................................................................................................13

EQUALISING WIDEBAND ACOUSTICAL RESPONSE (2)...............................................................................................................13

EQUALISING SINGLE COMPONENT RESPONSE (3) .....................................................................................................................13

CROSSOVER SECTION (4).........................................................................................................................................................13

USER SET-UP, ARRAY EQ (5)....................................................................................................................................................13

PROTECTION..........................................................................................................................................................................15

VCAS (6) AND VCEQS (7)......................................................................................................................................................15

DISPLACEMENT CONTROL (8)..................................................................................................................................................15

TEMPERATURE CONTROL (9)...................................................................................................................................................15

PHYSIOLOGIC DYNAMIC CONTROL (10)..................................................................................................................................15

INTERCHANNEL REGULATION (11) ..........................................................................................................................................16

PEAK LIMITER (12)..................................................................................................................................................................16

DELAY & POLARITY INVERSION (13)....................................................................................................................................16

FACTORY SET-UP DELAY...........................................................................................................................................................16

USER SET-UP DELAY................................................................................................................................................................17

AUDIO INPUT/OUTPUT...........................................................................................................................................................17

FLOATING BALANCED AUDIO INPUT ........................................................................................................................................17

BALANCED AUDIO OUTPUT......................................................................................................................................................17

GENERAL FUNCTIONS............................................................................................................................................................18

REMOTE SENSE LINES..............................................................................................................................................................18

RESET .....................................................................................................................................................................................18

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

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PAGE 5

INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

MUTE/SOLO BUTTONS.............................................................................................................................................................18

DISPLAY & INDICATORS..........................................................................................................................................................18

CONTRAST ADJUSTMENT .........................................................................................................................................................18

SERIAL LINK / DOWNLOADER ..................................................................................................................................................18

MENU DESCRIPTION.......................................................................................................................................................19

MAIN FAMILY SELECTION ....................................................................................................................................................19

USER SETTINGS ......................................................................................................................................................................19

SYSTEM SETTINGS..................................................................................................................................................................22

CONFIGURATION SELECT. .....................................................................................................................................................23

AMPLIFIERS (GAIN, POWER)........................................................................................................................................25

POWER ...................................................................................................................................................................................25

CURRENT RATING ..................................................................................................................................................................25

AMPLIFIER GAINS ..................................................................................................................................................................25

HOW TO SET CORRECT GAIN AND POWER INFORMATION IN THE NX242 .............................................................................25

GAIN VALUE ...........................................................................................................................................................................28

ADVANCED PROTECTIONS .....................................................................................................................................................28

AMPLIFIER LATENCY EFFECTS ON PROTECTION..................................................................................................................28

INSTALLATION RECOMMENDATIONS......................................................................................................................29

AUDIO CHAIN RECOMMENDATIONS......................................................................................................................................29

ABOUT « LOUDSPEAKER MANAGEMENT DEVICES » ...............................................................................................................29

OPERATING SUB’S FED THROUGH AN AUX OUTPUT ...............................................................................................................29

OPERATION OF MULTIPLE TDCONTROLLERS...........................................................................................................................29

SYSTEM ALIGNMENT..............................................................................................................................................................29

GEOMETRICAL ALIGNMENT .....................................................................................................................................................30

MEASURING AND ALIGNING PHASE IN THE OVERLAPPING REGION ...........................................................................................30

NEXO WINDOWS LOADER.............................................................................................................................................32

WARNING ...............................................................................................................................................................................32

CONNECTION FROM NX242 RS232 9-PIN SERIAL PORT TO PC’S COM PORT...................................................................32

INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................................................................................................32

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.....................................................................................................................................34

APPLICATION NOTE : DRIVING THE SUB FROM THE AUX SEND.....................................................................35

WHAT IS THE PHASE RELATION BETWEEN THE AUX AND MAIN OUTPUT OF YOUR DESK?.....................................................35

WHY IT IS UNLIKELY THE AUX AND MAIN HAVE THE SAME PHASE? .....................................................................................35

CONSEQUENCES OF BADLY ALIGNED SYSTEMS........................................................................................................................35

PRECAUTIONS & CHECK ..........................................................................................................................................................36

APPENDIX A : LIST OF SUPPORTED PRESETS (LOAD2.22)..................................................................................37

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

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PAGE 6

NX242 VERSUS NX241: WHAT’S NEW ?

NX242 versus NX241: What’s new ?

The NX242 Digital TDcontroller has been designed in order to provide total compatibility with its

predecessor – the NX241 Digital TDcontroller.

What’s remain the same?

The DSP resources for both models remain the same, so new supported set-ups (i.e. firmware loads) will

be compatible with the both the NX241 and NX242 TDcontrollers. For advanced set-ups and signal

processing NEXO has released the NXtension Expander Board, which has double the available DSP

resources.

MENUs and functions remain the same; no learning curve is needed to go from the NX241 to the NX242.

The same LOAD and NXWIN software is used to update both TDcontrollers. The transition is transparent

for the user. Note however, that the NX242 can’t be flashed with LOADs prior to 2.21.

The appearance of the NX242 is identical to the NX241 except the model number. Therefore, you can

mix both units in the same rack without aesthetic problems. Please note however that both NX241 and

NX242 should have the same firmware revision (LOAD) to be phase compatible.

What’s changed?

The overall performance of the NX242 has improved significantly: 10dB more on the dynamic range, less

distortion…

The layout and ground scheme of the unit have been totally revised to cope with the most demanding

situations founded in the field (low and very high frequencies). The EMC protection on every input/output

and the new ground structure makes the NX242 immune to interference far beyond the recommended

values founded in EMC standards. As a result, there is no need for the earth lift function found on the

NX241.

The input stage is truly floating and accepts important common mode offset (resulting from very long

wiring or difference of ground potential between two connected equipments) without affecting it’s

headroom (28dBu) and performance.

The NX242 Digital TDcontroller uses a switch mode power supply (SMPS). This SMPS accepts

universal AC power input voltages in the range 90V to 264V, and requires no manual adjustment for

voltages in this range.

The NX242 is designed to accept the optional NXtension board with the ES-4 EtherSound interface and

the CAI interface, whereas the NX241 can only accept the CAI interface.

An external LCD contrast adjustment is now provided on the NX242.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

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PAGE 7

QUICK START

Quick Start

This section contains a summary of the most frequently asked questions by people who haven't read the

manual. You may be able to use the NX242 TDcontroller quite quickly as it has been designed to be

user friendly. However please devote some attention to reading this manual. A better

understanding of specific features of the NX242 TDcontroller will help you to operate your

system to its full potential.

WARNING: Information on the amplifiers used is MANDATORY. Before using your system you

MUST configure "MENU 2.6 AMP GAIN" and "MENU 2.7 AMP POWER". Failure to do so or to

properly connect the Sense Lines will invalidate the NEXO warranty on the attached NEXO

loudspeakers. See in “ Amplifiers (Gain, Power)” page 25 the correct way to do so.

RESET

You can reset the unit without powering off by simultaneously depressing buttons A, B & “ENTER” ()

at the same time.

Selecting cabinet family

Simultaneously depressing A & B buttons at power up or during device RESET accesses the system

change menu. Keep the A & B Buttons held until all LEDs are off. This will allow the selection of any

cabinet in any family. Using the rotary encoder, scroll through the configurations and press “ENTER”

() to load the required settings.

Select your cabinet set-up

In MENU 3.0 you will be able to choose among the different set-ups within the same cabinet family. (i.e.

you don't have to modify the amplifier to cabinet wiring).

Navigating menus

On the controller display screen, the number before the Function corresponds to the menu number. To

change the first number (this is the Main menu label) button A must be pressed. To change the second

number (this is the Submenu label) button B must be pressed. To select options, turn the encoder wheel,

or press the “ENTER” button (). Changes are immediate (no further confirmation unless clearly

stated).

Back to default

In Menu 2.5 you have the possibility to put back all MENUS to the factory default (except the amplifier

information that you have entered MENU 2.6 & 2.7).

Auto save

In case of power failure, the current set-up is saved two minutes after the last change made. At power up

the last saved settings are restored.

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

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PAGE 8

SETTING-UP ADVICE

Setting-Up Advice

Mains Power

WARNING ! THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.

The green and yellow wire of the mains cord must always be connected to an installation safety earth or

ground. The earth is essential for personal safety as well as the correct installation of the system, and is

internally connected to all exposed metal surfaces. Any rack framework into which this unit may be

mounted is assumed to be connected to the same grounding circuit. (see also p.8)

NEXO TDcontrollers don’t provide a mean to switch off the unit from the front panel. As they are intended

to be rack mounted the back panel is not accessible during use. Therefore it is left to the user to provide a

disconnection mean readily operable.

Voltage setting

NEXO TDcontrollers use a switch mode power supply (SMPS). This SMPS accepts universal AC power

input voltages in the range 90V to 264V, and requires no manual adjustment for voltages in this range.

Mounting the TDcontroller in a rack (Grounding, shielding & safety issues)

The TDcontroller is intended for rack mounting. The only accessible part during use shall be the front

panel of the TDcontroller. Any space above or under the TDcontroller shall be obstructed with a blank

panel.

The rack is a free grounding and shielding structure and it provides extra shielding. Therefore, it is

desirable that the screws used to fix the TDcontroller in the frame or rack provide an electrical contact

between the chassis of the TDcontroller and the rack.

The primary reason for grounding is safety. Conformance to the applicable requirements of the

authorities having jurisdiction is, of course, mandatory. However, grounding also has an impact on

electromagnetic compatibility. From the EMC point of view, it is desirable to have a low impedance

ground network, as a current flowing in the ground network will then produce low voltage in the network.

A low impedance network can be obtained using a multipoint ground scheme, with as many closed

ground loops as is economically possible.

Fuse

The fuse provided in the unit will not blow during normal operation. If the fuse blows the TDcontroller

has malfunctioned. This fuse must only be changed by NEXO certified service personnel. In any case

do not replace the fuse with a non-certified NEXO fuse, as this will invalidate the NEXO warranty.

CAUTION!

This servicing instruction is for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric

shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are

qualified to do so.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

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PAGE 9

SETTING-UP ADVICE

DATE: 03/12/2004

Recommendations for wiring the sense lines

The impedance of the sense inputs of the TDcontroller are high, so currents are low and therefore light

duty cable can be used. If the TDcontroller is housed in the amplifier racks an unshielded cable may be

used.

If the TDcontroller is located remotely - at the mixing position - a shielded cable is recommended, without

using the shield as a conductor. The cable must be well protected from public access, as it carries

potentially dangerous amplifier voltage.

When one of the channels is not being used and the corresponding sense line is disconnected, cross talk

onto the inactive sense line may in some cases produce signals capable of causing the inadvertent

illumination of the Sense LED on that channel; although this has no effect on the internal operation of the

TDcontroller, it can be cured by short-circuiting the terminals of the inactive sense line.

Recommendations for wiring the audio outputs

The output stages can drive several amplifiers in parallel; however it is not advisable to work with loads of

less than 1kOhm(and strictly forbidden to drive less than 600Ohms). It is best to check the impedance

characteristics of the amplifier inputs - supplied by the manufacturer - to check how many amplifier

channels can be paralleled. Where precise information is not available (and taking 10kOhm as the

minimum value possible), ten channels in parallel per output is a sensible maximum.

Electromagnetic environments

The emission (this word describes all types of electromagnetic noise radiated by the equipment)

requirements which have been applied to Nexo’s TDcontrollers are the stringent requirements of the

”Commercial and light industrial environment” of the product family EMC standard for emission.

The immunity (this word describes the ability to cope with electromagnetic disturbance generated by

other items and natural phenomena) requirements that we have considered exceed those applicable to

the ”Commercial and light industrial environment” of the product family EMC standard for immunity. In

order to provide a further safety margin, we recommend that you do not operate the TDcontrollers in the

presence of electromagnetic interference exceeding half of the limits found in this standard.

Low Z

123

Low Z

123

TDcontroller

AmplifierMixing Desk

123

+-

Low Z

PE PE

PE

Safety

Ground

SHIELD

IN OUT

These two EMC standards are those applicable to pro-audio equipment for the implementation of the

”EMC directive”.

Analogue signal cables

Analogue signals should be connected to the input

and output ports of the TDcontroller via shielded

twisted pair or starquad cable fitted with XLR

connectors on the TDcontroller side. We

recommend the use of low transfer impedance

cables with a braided shield and a transfer

impedance below 10 mΩ/m. For the sense inputs,

the noise requirements are not as stringent, and

any kind of twisted pair cable will be adequate.

The TDcontroller is intended to be used with

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

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PAGE 10

SETTING-UP ADVICE

symmetrical (balanced) sources (for instance a mixer) and symmetrical loads (for instance a power

amplifier (see figure). You can see that the TDcontroller provides a low impedance path between pin 1 of

its XLR connectors and its chassis. The TDcontroller can sustain high current in pin 1 without

degradation of output noise. We recommend that the sources and loads you use have the same

desirable characteristics.

It is sometimes claimed that connecting cable shield at both ends creates ground loops, and that the

current flowing in such loops will produce noise. This is not the case for most professional audio

equipment. In short, there are two kinds of loops in which voltages are present: the loops formed by

signal wires, and the loops formed by grounded conductors, among which are protective earth

conductors (PE) and signal cable shields.

When a cable shield is grounded at both ends, a loop is closed, and the resulting current causes a

reduction of the voltage induced on signal lines. This effect is what the cable shield is intended to

produce, since this is how it protects your signal from magnetic fields.

If you are using an asymmetrical

(unbalanced) source (not recommended),

it is best to use a shielded twisted pair and

to connect wire 3 of the cable to the shield

at the source output end (see figure). This

technique prevents noise currents flowing

on the return path of the signal. If you are

using an amplifier with an asymmetrical

(unbalanced) input, it is best to use a

shielded twisted pair, and to connect wire 3

at the TDcontroller end only, as shown in

Fig. 2. This keeps a good capacitance

balance for the signal, however noise

currents flow on the return path of the

signal. (Note that this is only acceptable for

a short cable).

Low Z

123

Low Z

123

TDcontroller

AmplifierMixing Desk

123

+-

Low Z ?

?PE

PE

Safety

Ground

SHIELD

0V

IN OUT

If you are using a symmetrical (balanced) source or amplifier which is prone to become noisy when a

current of less than 100 mA at the mains frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz) is sourced into pin 1 of its XLR

connectors, you might consider opening the ground loops.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

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PAGE 11

SETTING-UP ADVICE

SENSE INPUT

(from amp terminals)

BALANCED OUTPUTS

+ 4

-

+ 3

-

+ 2

-

+ 1

-

RS23

FLOATING BALANCED INPUTS

Channel 4 Channel 3 Channel 2 Channel1 B (RIGHT) A (LEFT)

MADE IN FRANCE

115 - 230V 50 - 60Hz 45W

CAUTION !

To reduce the risk of electric schock, grounding

of the center pin of this plug must be maintained.

NX242

CAUTION - RISK OF FIRE

DO NOT OPEN

NX242 TDcontroller

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B

lank

i

ng panel

I

n t

h

is s

l

ot goes t

h

e optiona

l

NXtension-CAI an

d

NXtension-ES4 Expan

d

er Boar

d

s

.

H

eav

y

Dut

y

Balanced Output Stage

.

Hig

h

en

d

DA 24

b

it convertion

D

e

l

ivers up to 28

d

Bu into 600O

h

m

l

oa

d

Ser

i

al Connect

i

on RS232 to P

C

onnect

y

our NX242 to the COM port of

y

our PC to update the NX242 Firmware.

Sense Line Connector to amplifier

Allows the best use o

f

the protection process, including the ampli

f

ier analysis (gain and

cl

ipping vo

l

tage). Fai

l

ing to connect t

h

e sense connector may

d

amage your spea

k

ers.

Switch mode power supply

Detac

h

a

bl

e Power cor

d

s

h

a

ll

comp

l

y wit

h

your country regu

l

ation.

All

ows continuous operation

b

etween 90V an

d

260V. No A

d

justment require

d

.

O

N

/

OFF Mains Switc

h

M

ute & Solo Buttons

R

ed LED : Muted Channe

l

C

hannel mon

i

tor

i

ng

R

ed LED Peak Limiting : Prevent your ampli

f

ier

f

rom overloadin

g

Y

ellow LED Protections : Prevent s

p

eaker Dis

p

lacement and Tem

p

erature failure

s

Green LED Signal : Monitor amplifier signal & displa

y

s sense error alerts.

LCD contrast ad

j

ustmen

t

I

n

p

ut Overload / DSP Cli

p

Rotary Enco

d

er

En

t

er

Butto

n

M

enu Select

i

o

n

Sub

Men

u

B

S

ele

ct

i

on

Main Menu A Selection

L

C

D screen

ss

48

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 12

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Global architecture

Global architecture is based upon a full 24bit audio path with 48bit core calculator running at 100 Million

Instructions per Second. Featuring:

 2 analogue inputs (floating balanced) 24bit resolution ADC.

 4 analogue outputs (balanced) 24bit resolution DAC.

 4 sense inputs (balanced) 16bit resolution ADC.

Set-up configurations

The audio path is automatically adjusted within the NX242 according to the setups (PS15, GEOT, CD18)

chosen by the user. This will affect the delays and gain control. For instance changing the gain of a CD18

cabinet will affect two channels at a time, changing the gain on a 3 WAY cabinet (e.g. Alpha) will affect

three channels, etc.

At the time of writing, the following configurations are used (for a complete description Appendix A on

page 37 for the list of setups currently supported)

Channel 1 Channel 2 Channel 3 Channel 4

unused unused 2 WAY Passive Cabinet 2 WAY Passive Cabinet

Channel 2 duplicated Sub 2 WAY Passive Cabinet 2 WAY Passive Cabinet

Sub Sub 2 WAY Passive Cabinet 2 WAY Passive Cabinet

1WAY Active cabinet 1WAY Active cabinet 1WAY Active cabinet 1WAY Active cabinet

unused 1WAY Active cabinet 1WAY Active cabinet 1WAY Active cabinet

Cardioid back Cardioid front Active cabinet unused

Cardioid back Cardioid front Active cabinet Channel 2 duplicated

Cardioid Sub 1 back Cardioid Sub 1 front Cardioid Sub 2 back Cardioid Sub 2 front

You may have noticed that certain configuration (4 passive cabinets for instance) are not supported.

Using those configurations requires the addition of the optional NXtension Expander Board. Please refer

to the separate manual for additional information.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 13

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

Block diagram description

Equalisation & Filtering

The number between parenthesis refers to the number circled in the block diagram.

Subsonic and VHF filtering (1)

Low and high-pass filters are used to filter out frequency components that could possibly degrade the

performance of the TDcontroller and amplifiers. The filters are optimised to work in conjunction with

overall system response.

The high pass filters are also extremely important as they optimise excursion at very low frequency which

is a very important safety factor. (Therefore do not use set-ups which are not designed for the cabinet

you are using).

Equalising wideband acoustical response (2)

This wideband equaliser section achieves the correction required to obtain a flat system response, as the

cabinets are acoustically designed for maximum efficiency on the whole frequency range. Active rather

than passive attenuation allows the lowering of amplifier voltages for a given output SPL and therefore

increases the maximum SPL achievable with the same amplifier.

Active equalisation also extends system bandpass especially at low frequencies where acoustical

performance is limited by cabinet size.

Equalising single component response (3)

This equaliser set allows acting on a specific driver after the crossover, rather than the on wideband

section. This allows to EQ one driver without affecting the others (cleaning out of band response, fine

tuning in a crossover…). All the parameters are factory set.

Crossover section (4)

Crossover between different bands is tuned for every set-up of every cabinet. Each crossover is

customized so that each transducer will fit with its neighbour by achieving a perfect phase alignment.

Unconventional, crossover-defined filters are applied, ranging from 6dB/octave to near infinite slopes

according to the type of crossover desired. Time alignment is also unconventionally achieved, by

combining crossover filter group delays with allpass and/or frequency dependent delays.

User set-up, Array EQ (5)

A basic Array EQ is currently implemented in the NX242. The cut off frequency of a low-shelving filter is

factory tuned for each cabinet set-up. The user has access to the gain of this filter. The array EQ is tuned

in order to reproduce the effect of the bass coupling, allowing the user to increase or diminish the effect of

the stacking.

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 14

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

3

R+L

2

L

1

R

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp

Command

PHYSIO 4

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp

Command

PHYSIO 3

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp

Command

PHYSIO 2

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp

Command

PHYSIO 1

Command

PEAK SIMULATION 4

Command

PEAK SIMULATION 3

Command

PEAK SIMULATION 2

Command

PEAK SIMULATION

PATCH 4

PATCH 3

PATCH 2

PATCH

Disp.

Command

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp.

LF TEMPERATURE 4

Disp.

Command

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp.

LF TEMPERATURE 3

Disp.

Command

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp.

LF TEMPERATURE 2

Disp.

Command

Voice Coil Temp.

ChassisTemp.

LF TEMPERATURE

0

INPUT VU-METER

0

A/D EQ

A/D

DACMUTEEQ

EQ

A/D DACMUTEEQ

EQ

A/D

SHELVING

DACMUTEEQ

EQ

A/D DACMUTEEQ

EQ

SHELVING

A/D EQ

Command

HF TEMPERATURE 4

Command

HF TEMPERATURE 3

Command

HF TEMPERATURE 2

Command

HF TEMPERATURE

VCA

FALLBACK

AMP VOLTAGE

Signal

AMP POWER

AMP GAIN

FALLBACK

AMP VOLTAGE

Signal

AMP POWER

AMP GAIN

FALLBACK

AMP VOLTAGE

Signal

AMP POWER

AMP GAIN

FALLBACK

AMP VOLTAGE

Signal

AMP POWER

AMP GAIN

Command

displacement

DISPLACEMENT 4

Command

displacement

DISPLACEMENT 3

Command

displacement

DISPLACEMENT 2

Command

displacement

DISPLACEMENT 1

DELAY 4

DELAY 3

DELAY 2

DELAY 1

ATT/REL.3

ATT/REL.2

ATT/REL.1

ATT/REL.

2

L

3

R+L

1

R

2

L

3

R+L

1

R

2

L 1

3

R+L 1

8

SENSE 4

7

SENSE 3

6

SENSE 2

5

SENSE 1

1

R 1

2

L

3

R+L

1

R

INPUT VU-METER

INPUT R

INPUT L

OUTPUT

CHANNEL 4

OUTPUT

CHANNEL 3

OUTPUT

CHANNEL 2

OUTPUT CHANNEL 1

NX242 Digital TDcontroller BLOCK DIAGRAM

Analogue path

Digital Audio

Digital servo & protections

HEADROOM

1

2

3 3

4

5

6

7 7

8

9

10

11

12

13

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 15

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

Protection

VCAs (6) and VCEQs (7)

Each channel has its own simulation and protection process.

Each audio channel contains a combination of controlled gain stages (let's call them VCA’s as in our

analogue circuitry). These VCA's are embedded into complex composite structures in order to change

their basic operation into frequency selective attenuation. This operation is similar to that of a voltage

controlled dynamic equaliser (VCEQ).

Each VCEQ and VCA is controlled by the synthesis of several signals issued from the various detection

sections. That synthesis is in fact the envelope of those signals, with an optimised release and attack

time for each VCEQ and VCA (depending on its frequency range and the cabinet selected).

Displacement control (8)

The sense input signal is sent to a shaping filter producing a signal whose instantaneous amplitude is

proportional to the voice coil excursion. This signal, after rectification, is compared to a preset threshold

matching the maximum usable value, as determined from laboratory measurements.

Any part of the signal exceeding the threshold is sent to the VCEQ control buffer while the VCEQ acts as

an instantaneous limiter (very short attack time) to prevent displacement from overriding the maximum

permissible value.

Temperature control (9)

Each sense signal is fed into a shaping filter (one per transducer), each one producing a signal

proportional to the instantaneous current flowing into the voice coil of the transducer. After rectification,

this signal is integrated with attack and release time constants equivalent to the thermal time constants of

the voice coil and chassis, producing a voltage, which is representative of the instantaneous temperature

of the voice coil.

When this voltage reaches the threshold value corresponding to the maximum safe operation

temperature, the VCA becomes active to reduce the Audio signal level and limit the effective temperature

to fall under the maximum usable value.

In order to avoid detrimental effects induced by very long release time constants coming from the

temperature detection signal (level being reduced for an extended period, « pumping » effects...), the

detection signal is modulated by another voltage integrated with faster time constants matching the

sound level subjective perception. This allows the controller to reduce the effective operation duration of

the temperature limiter and make it sound more natural, while the efficiency of protection is fully

preserved and operation thresholds are unaffected (kept as high as possible).

Physiologic Dynamic Control (10)

The so-called Physiologic Dynamic Control is intended to avoid unwanted effects as a result of a too long

attack time constant. By anticipating the operation of the temperature limiter, it prevents a high level

Audio signal appearing suddenly then being kept up for a period, which is long enough to trigger the

temperature limiter. Without this, a rough and delayed gain variation would result which would be quite

noticeable and unnatural.

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 16

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Physio control voltage acts independently on the VCA with its operation threshold slightly lower (3

dB) that of the temperature limiter and a low compression ratio; its optimised attack time constant allows

it to start operating without any subjectively unpleasant transient effects.

Interchannel regulation (11)

As described before, each transducer is individually servo-controlled for temperature.

This means in practice that, in case of a potential risk detected, protective operation would only affect the

concerned driver. Your driver will be protected but the overall system tonal balance could be altered if the

different channels are not heating at the same time. In addition, triggering a temperature protection

means that the loudspeaker has already lost some efficiency (power compression up to 3dB in extreme

cases)

The purpose of interchannel regulation is to cancel that effect by linking VCAs together. When the

protection is activated on one channel and reaches a predetermined threshold, the regulation section

begins to correct the balance between the different channels (HF, MF, and LF) by acting on the

concerned VCA.

Peak limiter (12)

The peak limiter primary function is to avoid massive clipping of the amp, which can have some very

audible artefacts.

The threshold of the peak limiter is determined by the user to match its amplifier. See in “ Amplifiers

(Gain, Power)” page 25.

The second function of the peak limiter is to avoid huge amounts of power being sent to a driver. Each

driver is protected in temperature and displacement but there could be other factors of destruction that

cannot be predicted by simulation (especially mechanical damage to the cone…). Each driver is specified

for a certain power handling and a factory set peak limiter threshold is tuned to avoid any abuse.

Delay & polarity inversion (13)

Input to output delay without filtering is 2.2ms (due to the digital processing). The latency time of the

NX241 used to be 1.4ms. Since the LOAD2_21 the latency time of the NX241 has been artificially

extended to 2.2ms to achieve phase compatibility with the NX242 (and so the delay between the 2 units

is less than a sample). For that reason: Do not mix NX241 with a LOAD earlier to 2.20 with the NX242

This delay will prevent also compatibility with analogue TDcontrollers.

ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL

TDCONTROLLER SHOULD NOT BE MIXED IN THE SAME SYSTEM.

Factory set-up delay

Note that each output may contain a small phase adjustment delay at the crossover point. Also, a polarity

inversion may be performed. These adjustments are part of the factory set-ups and are necessary to

time-align the corresponding cabinet that is selected.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 17

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

User set-up delay

Following user delay adjustment is possible:

GLOBAL: Affecting all channels at the same time (delaying all the system for application as delay

towers…)

MAIN: Affecting only the channels driving the MAIN system (differ in case of TWO cabinet or 3WAY

cabinet)

SUB: Affecting only the channels driving the SUB system.

GLOBAL and MAIN/SUB delays are cumulative up to 150m per channel (about 450ms, 500 feet).

Audio Input/Output

See also the wiring recommendations in the “setting up advices” section, at the beginning of this manual.

Floating balanced audio input

A new ruggedized, truly floating, high-end performance Input stage has been developed for the NX242.

In the max HEADROOM position, it is accepting input level up to 28dBu and keeping this performance

when driven by unbalanced impedance sources or when submitted to high common mode level.

The analogue inputs are on 3 pin female XLR connectors with positive and negative signal polarities on

pins 2 and 3 respectively. Pin 1 is directly coupled to the chassis.

The input signal can be adjusted in MENU 1.1 HEADROOM in order to avoid clipping of the A/D

converter. See corresponding paragraph (MENU section page 19)

Balanced audio output

The analogue outputs are on 3-pin male XLR connectors with positive and negative signal polarities on

pins 2 and 3 respectively. Pin 1 is directly coupled to the chassis. The output will deliver a full-scale output

of +28dBu(balanced 600 / 1nF load.)

During A/C power up of the NX242, all outputs are muted by firmware-controlled relays (strapping pin 2

and pin 3 of each output).

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 18

BLOCK DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

General functions

Remote sense lines

Line input (–18dB less than the amplifier gain) is allowing

remote sensing. You will need to use this

function to have an 18dB gain attenuator near the amplifier. This function enables you to keep the

TDcontroller at the mixing position and still being able to feed an attenuated amplifier voltage (for safety

reasons) to the sense line connector.

Reset

Holding down the three menu buttons (A, B, ) simultaneously will reset the unit. Reset has the same

effect as powering on and off the unit. The unit will mute (hardware) for 5 seconds with all LED’s on. The

unit will then return to the last set-up automatically saved (every 2 minutes).

Resetting the unit from the front panel is needed to change the cabinet family (Press the three buttons to

reset then let go of the ENTER button to enter into MENU 0). In that case you will have to keep the A & B

Buttons until all LEDs light off.

Mute/Solo buttons

Front panel, direct access. The Mute (or Solo) mode is selected in the user menu. Please note that these

MUTEs are soft mute and are therefore not operating output relays.

Display & Indicators

User control of all settings is via two menu scroll pushbuttons, an additional assignable pushbutton, an

assignable rotary encoder and a backlit 16*2 character display.

Three LED’s per channel for sense (green), peak limit (red) protects (yellow). Four dedicated LED’s are

situated alongside the associated MUTE/SOLO button.

Two LED’s to indicate input overload and signal clipping into the DSP.

Default screen will pop up after 2 minutes and display the current set-up.

Contrast adjustment

A hole in the front panel allows the adjustment of the contrast of the LCD screen.

Serial link / Downloader

The unit can be RS232 linked to any PC in order to download new versions of Firmware using a

Windows compatible Downloader program. See corresponding chapter page 32.

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

ENGLISH

PAGE 19

MENU DESCRIPTION

-- LOAD2_20 --

(c) NEXO 2004

MENU DESCRIPTION

On the controller display screen, the number before the Function corresponds to the Menu Number. To

change the first number (this is the Main menu label) button A must be pressed. To change the second

number (this is the Submenu label) button B must be pressed. To select options, turn the encoder wheel,

or press the ENTER button (). Changes are immediate (no validation is required unless clearly

stated).

Please refer to the release notes issued with each new download to track eventual menu changes.

USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE: 03/12/2004

Main Family Selection

Changing Cabinet Family

In order to prevent end-user changing between different

NEXO system set-ups during use, the following procedure

is obligatory. This procedure has been purposely designed

to avoid any mistake. It is nevertheless very easy to

change set-up among the same family (see menu 3)

Depressing A & B buttons while the NX242 is resetting.

You can reset the unit without powering off by

simultaneously depressing buttons A, B & ENTER () at

the same time.

Note: Selecting a new family will set all parameters to

factory default settings.

User settings

1.1 HEADROOM

Allows the user to adjust the headroom (8 steps, 3dB each)

before the A/D converter without changing the overall gain

of the processor. Factory default is set to maximum

headroom (and so, maximum noise). This can be adjusted

if you feel the processor is too noisy for lower level

applications.

An Input bar graph meter displays input level and

headroom before input clip. The maximum of the left and

right input is shown on the meter. Note that the meter does

not show DSP clipping.

ENGLISH

PAGE 20

MENU DESCRIPTION

NX242 USER MANUAL LOAD2_22

DATE : 12/3/2004

The input meter is accessed through the MENU 1.1

(HEADROOM) by depressing ENTER WX button. Press

the ENTER WX button to toggle between the meter and

the normal HEADROOM screen. Note: In meter mode, the

default screen is not activated.

The meter also pops up automatically when the signal is

above a certain threshold.

The red arrow above illustrates the Headroom available

before clipping of the input converters of the NX242. The

dynamic range of the meter is 24 dB. The scale is given

below; maximum being 0dBFS (the red LED marked ‘in

clip’ will light).

-3-6-12-24

A permanent peak hold allows you to see if input clipping

has reached. Changing the headroom (by turning the

wheel) resets the peak hold indication. You can also reset

the peak hold (without changing the headroom) by pressing

the enter WX button twice.

To set the HEADROOM correctly, feed a typical example of

the loudest desired program level into the NX242. Reduce

the Headroom by turning the wheel anti-clockwise until the

INPUT LED or DSP LED indicates the NX242 has reached

clipping. Then go one click backwards (turn the wheel

clockwise). The signal should now be clearly visible on the

meter scale, but without reaching the right-hand end of the

display.

1.2 DELAYS [Sub / Main / Global]

Each output channel can be delayed by up to a maximum

(global + individual delay) of 450ms (150m). See page 17

The unit can display in [FEET / METRES / SECONDS] as

required. Delay is adjustable in 10cm (0.3ms) increments.

The control pot will accelerate through the adjustments

faster according to the speed of use.

1.3 OUT Levels

[Global / HF /MF / LF / SUB]]

Adjust overall & separate TDcontroller gain with this menu.

These gain controls are provided to adjust the tonal

balance of the system by acting on separate channels. You

can also compensate for gain differences between different

amplifiers. (Although the use of differing gain structure

amplifiers in the same set-up is possible it is not

recommended).

Each of the individual or global gain is +/- 6dB. (Step

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