Studio Technologies M42A IFB Interface with 4 Front-Panel XLR Inputs

The Model 42A is designed to create broadcast-standard IFB circuits 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 provides four independent IFB circuits. For convenience, the four circuits can be connected by way of eight 3-pin male XLR-type connectors; four of which are located on the back panel and four on the front. Each IFB circuit 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 over-current and short-circuit conditions.

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-type connectors. The compact, one-rack-space package is constructed using heavy-gauge steel components. The unit's mains power input can range from 100 to 230 volts, 50/60 hertz. This "universal input" ensures correct operation virtually anywhere in the world.

To help confirm proper installation and ensure correct operation, the Model 42A includes a full-featured audio monitor section. Two 5-segment LED meters provide an indication of the audio levels as they appear directly on the IFB output connectors. This capability makes it simple to adjust and maintain correct audio levels so that optimal IFB performance can be maintained. A headphone output is also provided, allowing "real-world" checking of IFB audio quality. In addition to being able to manually select the IFB circuit to be monitored by the meters and headphone output, an "auto scan" mode is also included. This allows each of the four IFB circuits to be monitored in a continuously repeating sequence.

The Model 42A is compatible with virtually every digital matrix intercom system, including those from Clear-Com®, Drake, Telex®/RTS®, and Riedel®. Interfacing requires only the connection of analog output ports from the intercom system to the Model 42A's audio inputs. Optimal performance might be gained by configuring the nominal audio level of the intercom system's "virtual" IFB output ports to match the Model 42A's +4 dBu input level. With the Model 42A's excellent audio and power delivery performance it's an ideal alternative to the interface devices offered by the intercom system vendors. Using the Model 42A the intercom system's audio quality can be maintained all the way to the IFB users.

Features:

• Transformer-coupled inputs
• Excellent audio quality
• Superior power-feed performance
• Front- and back-panel IFB connectors
• Single rack-space mounting
• Universal mains input powering

Specifications:

• General Audio:
  • Frequency Response:
  • Pin 2 Outputs (DC with Channel 1 Audio): 20 Hz-20 kHz ±2.5 dB (80 Hz-20 kHz ±0.25 dB)
  • Pin 3 Outputs (Channel 2 Audio): 20 Hz-20 kHz ±0.25 dB
  • Distortion (THD+N): 0.01%, measured at 1 kHz, +4 dBu, pin 2 outputs (DC with channel 1 audio)
  • S/N Ratio: 80 dB, ref +4 dBu out, 20 Hz-20 kHz, pin 2 outputs (DC with channel 1 audio)
  • Crosstalk: 81 dB, typical, ref +4 dBu in, 20 Hz-20 kHz
• Audio Inputs: 8, organized as four 2-channel inputs
  • Type: transformer balanced, compatible with balanced or unbalanced sources
  • Impedance: 10 k ohms, nominal
  • Nominal Level: +4 dBu
• IFB Output Circuits: 4
  • Type: DC power with two channels of unbalanced audio
  • Connections: common on pin 1, DC (+30 V nominal) modulated with channel 1 audio (–10 dBu nominal) on pin 2, and channel 2 audio (–10 dBu nominal) on pin 3
  • 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: 200 milliamperes 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 volts peak-to-peak, 100 ohm load
• Monitor Section – Output Voltage Detection: measures DC voltage level directly on pin 2 of IFB circuit output connector pairs. Status LEDs flash when level is less than approximately 24 volts DC.
• Connectors:
  • Audio Inputs: 25-pin D-subminiature female, 4-40 threads
  • IFB Outputs: 8 (two per IFB circuit), 3-pin male XLR-type
  • Headphone Output: ¼-inch 3-conductor phone jack
  • AC Mains: 3-blade, IEC 320 C14-compatible (mates with IEC 320 C13)
• AC Mains Requirement: 100-230 volts, 50/60 Hz, 0.7 amperes maximum @ 100 volts, 0.4 amperes maximum @ 230 volts
• Dimensions (Overall):
  • 19.00 inches wide (48.3 cm)
  • 1.72 inches high (4.4 cm)
  • 9.58 inches deep (24.3 cm)
• Mounting: one space in a standard 19-inch rack
• Weight: 6.8 pounds (3.1 kg)