Lectrosonics SMWB Series

Introduction

The SMWB transmitter offers Lectrosonics' Digital Hybrid Wireless® technology in a belt-pack form factor. It combines a 24-bit digital audio chain with an analog FM radio link, eliminating compandor artifacts while retaining extended range and noise rejection. The unit features a rugged, machined aluminum housing with a standard 5-pin input jack compatible with various microphones and line-level signals. LEDs on the keypad facilitate quick level settings without needing to view the receiver. Power is supplied by AA batteries (one for SMWB, two for SMDWB). The antenna port uses a standard 50-ohm SMA connector. Switching power supplies maintain constant voltage and output power throughout battery life. The input amplifier uses an ultra-low noise op-amp with adjustable gain (44 dB range) and a DSP-controlled dual-envelope input limiter for overload protection.

About Digital Hybrid Wireless®

This system addresses channel noise by digitally encoding audio in the transmitter and decoding it in the receiver via an analog FM link. This proprietary method provides audio performance rivaling purely digital systems without their associated power, bandwidth, and noise issues. Unlike purely digital systems that can drop audio suddenly during signal loss, the Digital Hybrid Wireless system handles weak signal conditions gracefully, minimizing audible artifacts as the receiver approaches its squelch threshold.

Servo Bias Input and Wiring

The input preamp design offers improvements over conventional inputs. Two wiring schemes (2-wire and 3-wire) are available for servo bias inputs. A line-level input wiring provides an extended frequency response with an LF roll-off at 35 Hz for instruments and line-level sources.

DSP-controlled Input Limiter

A digitally-controlled analog audio limiter precedes the A/D converter, offering over 30 dB of overload protection. Its dual-release envelope ensures acoustic transparency and low distortion, recovering quickly from transients but slowly from sustained high levels to preserve dynamic changes.

Recorder Function

The SMWB includes a recording function for situations where RF reliability is a concern or for standalone operation. The recorder samples at 44.1kHz with a 24-bit depth. It uses microSDHC cards for recording and firmware updates, eliminating the need for USB cables or drivers.

Compatibility with microSDHC Memory Cards

The SMWB and SMDWB are designed for microSDHC memory cards (2 GB to 32 GB). SDSC, SDXC, and SDUC cards are not compatible. Look for Speed Class 10 or UHS Speed Class I markings. Always test new cards before critical use.

Features

Key features include a battery status LED indicator, menu shortcuts, IR (infrared) sync for quick setup, AA battery operation, and microSDHC card support for recording and firmware updates.

Battery Status LED Indicator

The BATT LED on the keypad indicates battery status: green for good, red for low voltage, and blinking red for a few minutes remaining. Battery life varies by brand, condition, and usage.

Menu Shortcuts

From the Main/Home screen, shortcuts are available for Record (MENU/SEL + UP arrow) and Stop Recording (MENU/SEL + DOWN arrow), provided a microSDHC card is installed.

IR (Infrared) Sync

The IR port allows settings like frequency, step size, and compatibility mode to be transferred from a compatible receiver to the transmitter. This process is initiated by the receiver.

Battery Installation

The transmitter is powered by AA batteries. Lithium batteries are recommended for longest life. The battery door is opened by unscrewing a knurled knob. Battery contacts can be cleaned with alcohol or a pencil eraser. Applying a small amount of silver conductive grease to the thumbscrew threads can improve battery performance.

Formatting SD Card

New microSDHC cards are pre-formatted with FAT32. The unit's 'Format Card' function is similar to a Windows Quick Format, deleting files and preparing the card for recording. It's crucial to only use the unit's format function, as computer formatting can corrupt the card. Never perform a low-level format with a computer.

IMPORTANT

Formatting the SD card optimizes it for recording. Do not edit, change, or view files on the card using a computer, as this can corrupt the data. Always copy files to a computer first before making any changes. Avoid using third-party programs that might alter the file structure.

iXML Header Support

Recordings include industry-standard iXML chunks in file headers for common fields.

Turning Power ON

Short Button Press: Turns the unit on in Standby Mode with RF output off. RF output can be enabled via the 'Rf On?' option in the Power Button Menu.

Long Button Press: Initiates a countdown to turn the unit on with RF output enabled. Releasing the button before the countdown completes powers the unit on in Standby Mode.

Power Button Menu: Accessed by a short press when the unit is on. Allows options like Resume, Power Off, RF On/Off, AutoOn?, Block 606 mode (E01 models), Remote control, Battery Type, Backlight, Clock, Locked keypad, and LED Off/On settings.

Transmitter Operating Instructions

1. Install battery.
2. Turn power on in Standby mode.
3. Connect microphone and position it.
4. Adjust input gain so the -20 LED blinks red on louder peaks during typical use.
5. Set frequency and compatibility mode to match the receiver.
6. Turn RF output on via the power menu or by cycling power and holding the button during the startup countdown.

Recorder Operating Instructions

1. Install battery.
2. Insert microSDHC memory card.
3. Turn power on.
4. Format memory card for recording.
5. Connect microphone and position it.
6. Adjust input gain as described for the transmitter.
7. Press MENU/SEL and select 'Record'.
8. To stop recording, select 'Stop' via MENU/SEL. The screen will show 'SAVED'.
9. To play back recordings, copy files from the memory card to a computer.

SMWB Main Menu

Accessed via the MENU/SEL button from the Main Window. Navigation uses UP/DOWN arrow keys. Options include:

• Files: Select recorded files.
• Format: Formats the microSDHC card (erases all data).
• Record: Starts recording.
• Gain: Adjusts input gain using UP/DOWN arrows.
• Freq: Selects desired frequency.
• Rolloff: Sets the low-frequency roll-off point (e.g., 70 Hz).
• Compat: Selects compatibility mode (e.g., Nu Hybrid, Mode 3, IFB).
• StepSiz: Chooses frequency increments (100 kHz or 25 kHz).
• Phase: Inverts audio polarity (Pos. or Neg.).
• TxPower: Sets RF output power (e.g., 25 mW, 50 mW, 100 mW).
• Sc&Take: Sets Scene and Take numbers for recordings.
• Takes: Selects scene and take numbers.
• Naming: Chooses file naming method (Sequence # or Clock).
• SD Info: Displays battery status, storage used, and capacity.
• Default: Resets recorder to factory default settings.

SMWB Power Button Menu

Accessed by pressing the power button from the Main Window. Options include:

• Resume: Returns to the previous screen.
• Pwr Off: Turns the unit off.
• Rf On?: Toggles RF output on or off.
• AutoOn?: Enables automatic power restore after battery changes.
• Remote: Enables or disables audio remote control.
• BatType: Selects battery type (Alkaline, Lithium).
• Backlit: Sets LCD backlight duration.
• Clock: Sets Year, Month, Day, and Time.
• Locked: Locks or unlocks the keypad.
• LED Off: Enables or disables control panel LEDs.
• About: Displays firmware version.

Setup Screen Details

Locking/Unlocking Changes to Settings: Settings can be locked via the Power Button Menu. When locked, settings cannot be changed, but menus can still be browsed, and the unit can only be powered off by removing batteries.

Main Window Indicators: The main window displays block number, operating mode, frequency, audio level, battery status, and programmable switch function. The display format can vary based on frequency step size settings.

Connecting the Signal Source: Microphones, line-level audio sources, and instruments can be connected. Refer to the 'Input Jack Wiring' sections for specific details.

Turning Control Panel LEDs ON/OFF: Control panel LEDs can be toggled on/off using the UP/DOWN arrow buttons from the main menu. An 'ALWAYS OFF' option is also available. The LEDs are disabled if the keypad is locked.

Helpful Features on Receivers: Lectrosonics receivers offer 'SmartTune' for finding clear frequencies and 'IR Sync' to transfer settings between receiver and transmitter.

Files: Displays recorded files on the microSDHC card.

Format

This function formats the microSDHC memory card, erasing all content. Use with caution.

Record or Stop

Initiates recording or stops an ongoing recording.

Adjusting the Input Gain

The two bicolor Modulation LEDs provide visual feedback on audio signal levels. The -20 LED indicates peaks, flickering red at 0 dB (full modulation), while the -10 LED indicates average levels. Adjust gain until the -10 dB LED glows green and the -20 dB LED flickers red on the loudest peaks. The limiter can handle peaks up to 30 dB above this point.

Selecting Frequency

Frequencies can be selected using various increments (100 kHz or 25 kHz steps) via the setup screen. The display shows the frequency, block number, and hex code. Fractions appear for frequencies ending in .025, .050, or .075 MHz. Mismatches between step size and frequency may be indicated by asterisks (**).

Selecting Frequency Using Two Buttons

Within the FREQ menu, the UP/DOWN arrows can be used for alternate frequency increments. The display shows frequency, block number, and step size. A mismatch between step size and frequency can result in asterisks appearing.

About Overlapping Frequency Bands

When frequency bands overlap, the same frequency may appear with different hex codes, indicating different pilot tones. Ensure the band number and hex code match the receiver for correct operation.

Selecting the Low Frequency Roll-off

The high-pass filter corner frequency can be set to 35, 50, 70, 100, 120, or 150 Hz. This adjustment can affect gain and is often made by ear.

Selecting the Compatibility (Compat) Mode

For optimal audio quality with Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid Wireless receivers, use the 'Nu Hybrid' mode. Other modes like 'Mode 3' and 'IFB' are available for compatibility with different systems. If a receiver lacks 'Nu Hybrid', use 'EU Dig. Hybrid'.

Selecting Step Size

This menu item allows frequency selection in 100 kHz or 25 kHz increments. The 25 kHz step size is necessary for frequencies ending in .025, .050, or .075 MHz.

Selecting Audio Polarity (Phase)

Audio polarity can be inverted at the transmitter or receiver to prevent comb filtering when mixing multiple microphones.

Setting Transmitter Output Power

Output power can be set to 25, 50, or 100 mW for SMWB/SMDWB/X models, and 10, 25, or 50 mW for /E01 models.

Setting Scene and Take Number

Scene and Take numbers can be advanced and toggled using the UP/DOWN arrows and MENU/SEL button, respectively, for organizing recordings.

Recorded File Naming

Recorded files can be named by sequence number or by the clock time.

SD Info

Displays microSDHC card status, including fuel gauge (remaining storage), storage used, storage capacity, and available recording time.

Restoring Default Settings

This function resets the recorder to its factory default settings.

5-Pin Input Jack Wiring

Provides detailed wiring diagrams for the 5-pin TA5F connector, covering various microphone types (electret lavaliere, dynamic) and line-level inputs. It specifies pin functions (PIN 1: Shield/Ground, PIN 2: Bias Voltage, PIN 3: Mic Level/Bias, PIN 4: Bias Voltage Selector, PIN 5: Line Level) and voltage options for Pin 3 based on Pin 4 connections. The section also details connector installation and components like the dust boot and strain relief.

Microphone Cable Termination for Non-Lectrosonics Microphones

Illustrates the process of stripping microphone cable and crimping it to the shield and insulation for proper termination, noting this is for UHF transmitters and differs for VHF. It also describes the importance of shield contact for noise reduction.

Input Jack Wiring for Different Sources

This section provides multiple wiring diagrams (Figs. 1-11) for connecting various audio sources to the transmitter's 5-pin input jack. These include different types of electret and dynamic microphones (with specific bias voltages and resistor values), DPA microphones, Sanken COS-11, and line-level signals (balanced and unbalanced). It also details simple wiring configurations for servo bias inputs and notes compatibility considerations.

Microphone RF Bypassing

Explains that electret microphones can be sensitive to RF interference. It recommends installing RF bypass capacitors at the mic capsule or within the TA5F connector housing to block RF signals. Specific capacitor part numbers (P/N 15117, P/N SCC330P) are provided. Lectrosonics lavaliere mics are pre-bypassed.

Line Level Signals

Details wiring for line level and instrument signals: Signal Hot to pin 5, Signal Gnd to pin 1, and Pin 4 jumped to pin 1. It allows signal levels up to 3V RMS. An optional 20 kΩ resistor can be added in series with pin 5 for increased headroom.

Firmware Update

Firmware updates are performed using a microSDHC card containing the update file (.ldr). The process involves formatting the card, copying the file, and then booting the SMWB unit with the card inserted while holding specific buttons (UP and DOWN arrows) to enter the update mode. The unit will prompt for confirmation after a successful update. A recovery process is also described for interrupted recordings.

Recovery Process

If a battery failure occurs during recording, a recovery process can restore the data. The unit detects interrupted recordings and prompts the user to recover the file. The user can select the duration for recovery. A 'Recovery Successful' message appears upon completion.

Declaration of Conformity

This section lists the product models and their conformity with various EC directives and harmonized standards, including Radio Equipment, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Safety, and RoHS directives. It also specifies the software version and the notified body that performed the EU type examination.

Silver Paste on SM Series Transmitter Thumbscrews

Lectrosonics applies silver paste to thumbscrew threads at the factory to improve electrical connection. Users can reapply this paste (a small vial is included) to enhance battery performance and conductivity. Instructions detail cleaning the threads and applying a tiny speck of paste.

Straight Whip Antennas

Antennas are supplied according to frequency band (A1, B1) and are color-coded for identification. A cutting template is provided to trim the antenna length to the desired frequency. A table lists frequency ranges, corresponding colors, and antenna lengths for factory-supplied antennas.

Supplied Accessories

The SMWB/SMDWB package includes essential accessories such as a TA5 connector kit (SMKITTA5), a vial of silver paste (SMSILVER), a microSDHC memory card (55010), batteries (40073 Lithium Batteries), foam insulating pads (35924), leather pouches (PSMDWB/PSMWB), a spring-loaded clip (SMWBBCUPSL), and an AMMxx Antenna.

Optional Accessories

Various optional accessories are available, including different types of wire clips (SMWBBCUP, SMWBBCDN, SMDWBBCSL) and spring-loaded clips (SMWBBCDNSL, SMDWBBCSL) for attaching the transmitter to a belt, allowing for different antenna orientations.

LectroRM

LectroRM is a mobile application (iOS and Android) by New Endian LLC that allows users to change transmitter settings by sending encoded audio tones. It supports various settings like input gain, frequency, sleep mode, and panel lock. The app requires specific transmitter firmware versions and remote control function to be enabled. It is a third-party application.

Specifications

This section provides detailed technical specifications for the SMWB/SMDWB series transmitters and recorders, covering operating frequencies, channel spacing, RF power output, compatibility modes, pilot tone, frequency stability, spurious radiation, equivalent input noise, input levels, signal-to-noise ratio, harmonic distortion, audio input jack, antenna type, battery life, weight, dimensions, emission designator, recorder media, file format, A/D converter, sampling rate, input type, audio performance (frequency response, dynamic range, distortion), operating temperature, and available recording times based on microSDHC card size.

Troubleshooting

This section offers a guide to diagnosing and resolving common issues, organized by symptom. Problems addressed include battery LED off, no modulation LEDs, no audio with RF present, receiver RF indicator off, no sound or low sound, distorted sound, wind noise/breath pops, and hiss/noise/audible dropouts. Each symptom is paired with a list of possible causes and recommended solutions.

Service and Repair

Lectrosonics recommends troubleshooting issues before seeking repair. For complex problems, units should be sent to the factory for service. The document provides contact information for Lectrosonics USA and Canada, including mailing addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses for sales and service. It also lists links to Facebook groups and wire lists for self-help.

Declaration of Conformity

This document details the product's compliance with various UK and EU regulations, including Radio Equipment, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Safety, and RoHS directives. It lists the relevant standards and their versions.

UKCA Declaration of Conformity

This document outlines the product's conformity with UK regulations, similar to the EU Declaration of Conformity, covering Radio Equipment, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Safety, and Restriction of Hazardous Substances.

Limited One Year Warranty

Lectrosonics provides a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for equipment purchased from an authorized dealer. The warranty covers repair or replacement of defective parts at Lectrosonics' option and does not cover damage from abuse or mishandling. The warranty is governed by the laws of New Mexico and limits liability for consequential damages.