BobWire DAT1 Digital Audio Trigger Device User Manual

Introduction

The BobWire DAT1 is a versatile Digital Audio Trigger Device designed to add 12 Volt trigger outputs to various audio/video components. It enables automatic power on/off functionality for standalone amplifiers, fans, speaker selectors, relays, lifts, projection screens, and other accessories, based on the presence or absence of a digital audio signal.

The DAT1 is compatible with devices such as Sonos Connect, Echo Link, Chromecast Audio, TVs, or any AV device equipped with a digital/optical audio output. It also features an analog audio output with a 192kHz 24-bit Cirrus Logic DAC to enhance sound quality for PCM signals.

Setup

Before connecting the BobWire DAT1, ensure all audio equipment is powered off. The DAT1 requires a 12V DC power input and connects to your audio source via a digital optical cable.

Package Contents

Image: The BobWire DAT1 device, its 12V power adapter, an optical audio cable, and two 3.5mm trigger cables are included in the package.

Verify that all components listed above are present in your package.

Connecting the DAT1

1. Power Connection: Connect the provided 12V DC power adapter to the "Power Input (12VDC)" port on the DAT1. Plug the adapter into a standard electrical outlet. The "Power" LED on the front of the unit will illuminate.

Image: Front panel of the BobWire DAT1, highlighting the 12V DC power input and the two 12V trigger outputs labeled "Input Active" and "Audio Detect".
2. Digital Audio Input: Connect a digital optical cable from the optical audio output of your source device (e.g., Sonos Connect, TV, Blu-Ray player) to the "In Digital Out" optical input on the rear of the DAT1.


Image: Rear panel of the BobWire DAT1, showing the digital optical input (In), digital optical output (Out), and the Left/Right Analog Audio Out.

3. Analog Audio Output (Optional): If you wish to use the DAT1's internal DAC, connect a 3.5mm stereo cable from the "Left/Right Audio Out" port on the rear of the DAT1 to the analog audio input of your amplifier or receiver.
4. 12V Trigger Output: Connect one of the provided 3.5mm trigger cables from either the "Input Active" or "Audio Detect" trigger output on the front of the DAT1 to the 12V trigger input on your amplifier or other controlled device. Refer to the "Operating" section for details on choosing the correct trigger output.


Image: A BobWire DAT1 unit connected to a Sonos Connect device. An optical cable connects the Sonos's digital output to the DAT1's digital input, and a 12V trigger cable extends from the DAT1.

Important Note: The BobWire DAT1 is designed for use with standalone amplifiers that have 12V trigger inputs. It will NOT turn on or off a typical surround sound receiver (AVR) as AVRs generally do not have 12V trigger inputs for power control.

Operating the DAT1

The BobWire DAT1 offers two distinct 12V trigger outputs, each designed for different operational scenarios:

1. Audio Detect Trigger

The "Audio Detect" trigger output is ideal for source devices that do not have a physical power button or a consistent power state, such as streaming devices like Sonos Connect, Amazon Echo Link, or Chromecast Audio. This trigger activates when an audio signal is detected on the optical input and deactivates when the audio signal ceases.

Diagram: Example setup using the "Audio Detect" trigger. Digital optical audio from devices like Amazon Echo Link or Sonos Connect feeds into the DAT1. The "Audio Detect" 12V trigger output then controls a standalone audio amplifier. This setup is for source devices without a power button.

Operation: When audio playback begins on your connected streaming device, the DAT1 detects the digital audio signal and sends a 12V trigger signal to your amplifier, turning it on. When audio playback stops, the DAT1 will turn off the amplifier after a short delay.

2. Input Active Trigger

The "Input Active" trigger output is suitable for source devices that have a power button and maintain a consistent power state, such as TVs, Blu-Ray/CD players, or cable/satellite boxes. This trigger activates when the connected source device is powered on and sending a digital optical signal, and deactivates when the source device is powered off.

Diagram: Example setup using the "Input Active" trigger. Digital optical audio from devices like a TV, Blu-Ray/CD Player, or Cable/Sat Box feeds into the DAT1. The "Input Active" 12V trigger output can control a standalone audio amplifier, an AV selector, or a cooling fan. This setup is for source devices that have a power button.

Operation: When your connected source device (e.g., TV) is turned on and outputs a digital audio signal, the DAT1's "Input Active" trigger will send a 12V signal to your controlled device. When the source device is turned off, the trigger signal will cease.

Analog Audio Output

The DAT1 includes a high-quality 192kHz 24-bit Cirrus Logic DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) for its analog audio output. This allows you to connect the DAT1 to an amplifier or receiver that only accepts analog inputs, providing improved sound quality from your digital sources. This output supports PCM audio only.

Maintenance

The BobWire DAT1 is designed for reliable operation and requires minimal maintenance. Keep the device in a dry, dust-free environment. To clean the exterior, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as these can damage the finish or internal components. Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.

Troubleshooting

• Device not powering on:
  • Ensure the 12V DC power adapter is securely connected to the DAT1 and plugged into a working electrical outlet.
  • Check if the "Power" LED on the front of the DAT1 is illuminated.
• 12V trigger not activating:
  • Verify that the digital optical cable is securely connected from your source device to the DAT1's optical input.
  • Confirm that your source device is powered on and actively outputting a digital audio signal.
  • Ensure you are using the correct trigger output ("Audio Detect" or "Input Active") for your specific source device and desired behavior.
  • Check the 12V trigger cable connection between the DAT1 and your controlled amplifier/device.
  • Remember that the DAT1 is for standalone amplifiers with 12V trigger inputs, not typical AV receivers.
• No analog audio output:
  • Confirm that the analog audio cable is correctly connected from the DAT1's "Left/Right Audio Out" to your amplifier's analog input.
  • Ensure your source device is outputting PCM audio, as the DAT1's DAC only supports PCM.
  • Check the input selection on your amplifier/receiver.
• Intermittent trigger activation:
  • Ensure the optical cable is not damaged and is fully seated in both the source device and the DAT1.
  • Check for any interruptions in the digital audio signal from your source device.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support regarding your BobWire DAT1 Digital Audio Trigger Device, please contact BobWire directly. Refer to the product packaging or the official BobWire website for the most current contact details and warranty terms.

BobWire is an engineering and manufacturing company specializing in audio accessories for Hi-Fi enthusiasts and professional installers, committed to innovative functionality and high audio signal quality.