Model 2278 Audio Zone Card Installation and Operation
Introduction
The Model 2278 Audio Zone Card is designed to expand the audio zone output capacity for the Model 2006 HLX Modular Matrix card cage. Each 2278 card adds eight audio zones, which can function either with a video zone or as independent audio zones. Any zone amplifier or receiver can be used to amplify the output of each 2278 zone. The 2278 audio outputs can be switched to any analog audio input. Low-level signals are routed to the audio zones after digital signal processing, such as volume control or EQ.
Features
- ExpressRamp™ volume control smoothly adjusts to a set level with a single command.
- 10-Band EQ for each audio zone.
- EQ settings can be exported and archived via USB.
- Tone and balance controls for each zone.
- RCA outputs plus a special DB-25 output for quick connection to Audio Authority amplifiers currently in development.
Installation
2278 cards can be installed in the third, fourth, fifth, or sixth card slot of a Model 2006 card cage, or in any 2014 expander card cage slot.
- Remove AC power from the HLX.
- Remove the blank panel on the HLX card cage and carefully insert the 2278.
- Insert the card along the guides into its slot and carefully engage it with the backplane connectors. Tighten the two captive screws part way, then push the card firmly in place. Securely tighten the captive screws.
- Apply power and use front panel controls to navigate to the new zone outputs to verify proper card recognition.
- Firmware updates are generally not required upon installation, but checking for the latest version is recommended for new features. Visit www.audioauthority.com/page/software for firmware updates and the HLX firmware update instruction PDF.
Control and Operation
All digital signal processing commands can be issued using serial, Ethernet, or IR remote control systems. The following table lists commands for Ethernet and serial protocols. IR commands are available for download at www.audioauthority.com.
HLX Commands for Digital Signal Processing
| Command Description | Ethernet/Serial Command | Example Command | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramp volume level at one zone output | [VO##R##] | [VO1R-10] | Zone 1 output volume level is attenuated 10 dB (below the maximum level). |
| Ramp all zones to the same volume level | [VXR##] | [VXR-30] | All zone outputs are set to -30 dB via ExpressRamp. |
| Mute a zone output | [VMO##] | [VMO1] | Zone 1 output is muted. |
| Cancel mute at a zone output | [VUMO##] | [VUMO3] | Zone 3 output is un-muted and set back to the previously set volume level. |
| Adjust zone balance | [BO##L##R##] | [BO2L-3R0] | Zone 2 output level for the left channel is attenuated 3 dB, while the right channel remains flat. |
| Adjust zone equalization | [EO##B##L##] | [EO12B2L-4] | Zone 12 equalizer band 2 is set to -4 dB. |
| Adjust zone tone control | [TO##B##T##] | [TO2B-3T9] | Zone 2 output tone control is set to attenuate bass 3 dB and amplify treble 9 dB. |
Volume Control Details
Volume control is achieved by attenuating the low-level signal by a set value before output to the amplifier. Sudden volume changes are automatically softened by ExpressRamp, an exclusive Audio Authority feature.
EQ, Tone, and Balance Details
Each zone can have separate settings for EQ, tone, and balance. EQ adjustments are made before tone, balance, and volume adjustments. EQ commands can be sent via serial or Ethernet. For extensive EQ adjustments, the PC Configuration Utility is recommended to speed up the process. Connecting to the HLX via a wireless Ethernet network allows for real-time audio adjustments using the PC Utility from each zone location. After finalizing EQ settings, they can be exported as a backup via the USB port on the HLX front panel.
Support and Contact
For questions regarding the HLX system, contact Audio Authority Technical Support via email at support@audioauthority.com.
Audio Authority®
2048 Mercer Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40511-1071 USA
Phone: 859-233-4599 • Fax: 859-233-4510
Customer Toll-Free USA & Canada: 800-322-8346
Website: www.audioauthority.com
Document Version: v 1.07, Part Number: 752-621, Revision Date: 3/11
