FreeSpeak II™ User Guide (Base station version) PN: 399G087 Rev 9 06/16/14
Document Reference Clear-Com FreeSpeak II User Guide Part Number: 399G087 Revision: 9 Legal Disclaimers Copyright © 2014 HME Clear-Com Ltd. All rights reserved. Clear-Com, the Clear-Com logo, Clear-Com Concert and HelixNet are registered trademarks of HM Electronics, Inc. The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement and may be used only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Contents Document Reference......................................................................................................... 2 1 Important Safety instructions....................................................................... 9 1.1 Safety symbols .............................................................................................. 10 2 Introduction to FreeSpeak II™ ................................................................... 11 2.1 An FS II communication system ...........
.5 Connecting to a program audio source .......................................................... 36 4.6 IFB configuration ........................................................................................... 36 4.7 Connecting to the stage announce output ..................................................... 37 4.8 Connecting to a PC ....................................................................................... 38 4.8.1 Connecting using the serial port .............................
6.13.2 Output level........................................................................................................... 57 6.13.3 To set the audio level for a port ............................................................................ 58 6.14 Setting port call destination ........................................................................... 59 6.15 Configuring a wired partyline ......................................................................... 61 6.15.
8 Programming on the beltpack .................................................................... 77 8.1 Introduction to programming on the beltpack ................................................. 77 8.2 Configuring the beltpack volume settings ...................................................... 78 8.2.1 Configuring the beltpack channel volumes and master volume ........................... 78 8.2.2 Configuring the volume level of the line input.................................................
9.1.1 IP rating (International Protection Marking) .......................................................... 89 9.1.2 FS II transceiver/antenna connector panel ........................................................... 90 9.1.3 Cabling the antennas ............................................................................................ 91 9.1.4 Beltpack support capacities for transceiver/antennas .......................................... 91 9.1.5 Coverage areas under various conditions .....
10.5.5 10.6 Setting the input, output and VOX levels ............................................................ 115 Configuring groups and wireless partylines ................................................. 115 10.6.1 Selecting the group to edit .................................................................................. 116 10.6.2 Changing the label of the group ......................................................................... 116 10.6.3 Changing the members of the group ........
1 Important Safety instructions • Read these instructions. • Keep these instructions. • Heed all warnings. • Follow all instructions. • Do not use this apparatus near water. • Clean only with dry cloth. • Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. • Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• When using AA Batteries follow all safety instructions from manufacturer. Do not mix different battery chemistries. When depleted, replace all batteries. • The in-beltpack USB charging feature has only been tested utilizing USB2.0 port. Warning: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture. 1.1 Safety symbols Familiarize yourself with the safety symbols in Figure 1: Safety symbols.
2 Introduction to FreeSpeak II™ This chapter provides an overview of the FreeSpeak II digital wireless beltpack system. With a FreeSpeak II (FS II) wireless beltpack you can roam freely around a studio or production facility while talking and listening to all, or selected, members of the production team. With its four communication routes, the beltpack gives you the flexibility to communicate quickly and seamlessly with individuals or groups, and to change communication routes as often as needed.
2.1 An FS II communication system An FS II system consists of three main elements: • The wireless beltpacks. • The Base station that routes communication to and from wireless beltpacks and other audio devices, and also allows you to configure the FS II system. Note: You can also configure the system by connecting it to an Eclipse HX Matrix and using the EHX software. For more information, see the Eclipse HX Configuration Software User Guide.
Using an antenna splitter allows up to five antennas to be connected to one Base station antenna port. A single FS II Base station supports up to twenty beltpacks and up to ten antennas, giving a great deal of flexibility in placing beltpacks where they are needed most, and for providing wireless reliability. Figure 2-2 illustrates how an FS II system can be set up to operate in a single studio or in a large-scale permanent broadcast facility.
3 Installing a system This chapter explains how to install a FreeSpeak II system, including cable connections, positioning the equipment, registering beltpacks and performing a site survey to optimize system performance. It contains the following sections: • Placing the Base station • Placing the antennas and splitters • Doing a site survey to determine coverage areas • Registering beltpacks 3.
For antenna coverage options see 3.2.3 Determining coverage areas in this chapter. 3.2.1 Wiring the antennas and splitters To wire antennas and splitters: 1) Note: Run 4-pair shielded Ethernet cable from the Base station to the antenna or splitter, and determine that the antenna or splitter is showing both power (green) and signal (amber) LEDs alight when the Base station is on.
Figure 3-1 Recommended antenna and splitter powering schemes and cable lengths, psu at splitter only Figure 3-2 Recommended splitter and antenna powering schemes and cable lengths, psu at splitter and antenna/transceiver 16 FreeSpeak II User Guide
3.2.3 Determining coverage areas After the transceiver/antennas and splitters have been initially set up proceed to test the coverage areas and re-locate antennas and splitters, if necessary, for optimal coverage. The following figure illustrates some FreeSpeak II coverage scenarios. Figure 3-3 Coverage areas for FS II TAs Note: Cells can be completely overlapped for density (by co-locating multiple antennas). Cells can be overlapped at boundaries (increases radio coverage).
3.3 2) Walk through all of the areas where beltpack users will typically be moving, and note any areas of weak signal, dropout, or disconnection from the system. Pay special attention to the overlap areas between antenna coverage zones, making sure sufficient signal strength is there from each of the transceiver/antennas to make a clean handoff between them for the beltpack. 3) Finally, when the coverage zones have been properly and effectively set up, it is time to program the system.
Parameter Meaning Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) A measure of the signal strength in a wireless environment. The higher the value, the stronger the signal. Frame Error Rate (FER) A measure of the signal connection quality. The lower the FER, the better the signal connection. Link Quality (LQ) A combined quality metric ranging from 1 (poor) to 5 (high).
This could be due to two things: • In-band interference from an RF source broadcasting in the DECT area of the spectrum. This can be verified using a DECT band monitor or by using a Spectrum Analyzer. • Long Delay Spread Multipath, where the signal is bounced off a number of reflective surfaces, such as metal ceilings, gantries, walkways or other large structures. This problem is greatest where the reflective surface is large and exists at a range of distances from the antenna.
Blank spaces next to an antenna number indicate that no connected antenna has been detected in this position. So the above display would indicate that five antennas are connected to the Base station in positions 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7. There are no active antennas in positions 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10. There are 4 beltpacks currently connected. Beltpacks 2 and 4 occupy the first 2 slots of antenna 3; beltpack 1 occupies the first slot of antenna 6; and beltpack 3 occupies the first slot of antenna 7.
o The FS II Base station (see below) o A previously registered beltpack o The Freespeak Configuration Editor (10.3 Registering beltpacks using the over the air (OTA) facility.) o The Eclipse EHX software. See the Eclipse HX Sofware Configuration User Guide. When registering beltpacks OTA the basic steps are the same in each context, though the detail is slightly different in each case. 3.4.1 1) The registration process must be enabled.
Figure 3-6 Beltpack systems To connect the beltpack to the system, the system must be visible (V) and in registration (pairing) mode (P) on the beltpack screen. If the system is not in registration mode, registration should be re-enabled on the Base station. (Step 1). Note: 4) Enter the four digit pairing code for the system using both rotary controllers and the menu select key (D). The default code is 0000. Note: 5) If a beltpack is currently registered to a system ‘C’ will be visible in this screen.
4 Connecting the Base station This chapter explains how to connect the Base station to various wired and wireless audio interfaces through its rear-panel connectors.
4.
Key to FS II Base station rear panel Feature Description A Power connector The 3-conductor AC power connector and universal power supply accepts voltages from 90 to 250 volts, at 50/60 Hz. Power consumption is 80 watts. B Partyline channel A connectors The FS II Base station provides two pairs of partyline connectors, labeled “Channel A” and “Channel B.
Key to FS II Base station rear panel Feature Description E Stage announce output This male 3-pin XLR connector allows a line-level audio signal, typically from wireless beltpacks or 4-Wire sources, to be sent to a paging system or other audio system. It is transformer-isolated. Level adjustment is done via the frontpanel display programming. More than one audio source at a time can be routed to the Stage Announce, with the audio being combined to give a single audio output.
Key to FS II Base station rear panel Feature 4.2 Description as close to the Base station as possible. A suitable ferrite is available from Wurth, part number 742 711 32. Connecting to partyline intercom systems Up to two channels of partyline intercom can be connected to the FS II Base station.
When the FS II Base station detects a wired partyline being connected with 30 VDC on Pin 2, it does not enable the 24-VDC power supply that the FS II Base station supplies to the connector to support a handful of locally connected wired partyline beltpacks. The Base station then appears to the wired partyline system as a remote station.
8) Note: 4.2.3 If the changes are saved the route will be reinstated on power up. Suggested settings for a partyline connection are that the VOX should be set to -26dB, the gain output to -6dB and the input to 0dB. Connecting to an RTS™ wired beltpack FS II can only transmit and receive audio from channel 2 of an RTS wired beltpack. Connect using a standard XLR cable. Ensure that the partyline type is set to “RTS” using the menu on the Base station before enabling the partyline.
4.2.5.2 Include the partyline channel inside a wireless partyline group It is recommended that when connecting to an analogue partyline system that the user includes the wireless partylines (WPL). The WPLs reduce the variation in audio levels heard when talking to analogue partylines. The WPLs are created in the configuration editor in a similar way to a user creating a group. 4.2.5.
The reflections from the party-line get delayed by the base station encoding, decoding and the DECT stack which causes the echo. -15dB Nulling circuit Party-line A -30dB The reflection from the party-line can be removed by using the new V2.0 VOX gate functionality therefore removing the echo. -15dB Nulling circuit 0dB Party-line A -30dB V2.
BP1 BP2 Audio from BP1 Audio to BP2 Wireless Party Line Group (WPLG) Audio from BP2 Audio to BP1 Auto Nulling Audio from Party Line A Audio to Party Line A Party Line Channel A (PLCHA) Figure 4-4 Wireless partyline Audio Flow This facility allows conferencing over a large area between a mix of beltpacks, partyline stations and Eclipse system panels through an FS II Base station. FS II beltpacks can only connect to a wired partyline via a wireless partyline.
2) Scroll to 4-WIRE and press to select. 3) Scroll to CALLS and press to select. 4) Select the port or group to create an audio path to and press to select. Doing so creates a route to the selected destination—this port or group can now hear the activity on the partyline. Note: 5) Note: This option can also be set to NONE. Once the changes have been saved, the route will be reinstated on power up. Call signalling is not currently supported on 4-wire connections.
Within the FS II Base station configuration software, the user can adjust the input and output level for that port. Alternately, the input and output levels can be adjusted on the FS II Base station for the particular 4-wire port, using the front-panel display. Repeat the procedure for each FS II 4-wire port that is connected with the Matrix Plus system. Note: 4.4.3 FS II does not currently generate a call signal to the Matrix port.
8 Data Rx– Table 4-3 Pinouts for connecting to other digital matrix intercom systems The remaining two 4-wire connections are audio only, and the data connections are unterminated (see Table 4-2 FS II Base station 4-wire pinout). Within the configuration software of the other digital intercom system, configure its connected port to 4-wire or similar. Adjust the input and output levels either at matrix side or within the FS II front-panel display for the particular FS II 4-wire port. 4.4.
Up to ten IFB key configurations can be set up that group together an IFB source and a number of IFB destinations and set the dimming level for that IFB key configuration.
Connect a microphone cable to the male 3-pin XLR connector on the rear of the FS II Base station, and connect the other end to the external audio system. When the output is activated, the beltpack user’s voice will be sent at line level to the audio system. The audio output ceases when the beltpack user stops pressing the rotary encoder; it is good practice to make sure that any rotary encoder to which the SA OUT is assigned is set to momentary/nonlatching mode.
4 N/C 5 5 6 N/C 7 N/C 8 N/C 9 N/C Table 4-6 Pinout for cable to upgrade Base station firmware On the PC end, a female 9-pin D connector is used. Make sure that the data connections of pin 2 to pin 3 and pin 3 to pin 2 are followed, and that pin 5 goes through to pin 5. Then short pins 1, 4, 6, and 8 together on the PC end of the cable. The cable will now be ready to use with the any upgrade files from the factory.
4.9 Connecting to transceiver/antennas 4.9.1 Connecting one transceiver/antenna directly to a transceiver port A transceiver/antenna connects to the transceiver port on the FS II Base station using a standard 4-pair CAT-5 data cable with RJ-45 connectors. It may be located up to 1,000 metres from the Base station if 24AWG cable is used or for 500 metres if 26AWG cable is used creating a coverage area for five FS-BP wireless beltpacks in that location.
distance of up to 300 metres (900 feet); beyond that distance they will need to be locally powered. 4.9.3 Powering an antenna or antenna splitter Provision of 24 VDC power to an FS II antenna is done as follows: • Connect the antenna to a 150/UNI-DIN power supply unit through the 4-pin DIN connector at the antenna. • Connect the antenna to an antenna splitter which is powered by a power-supply unit.
5 Operating the Base station 5.1 Introduction The FS II Base station provides all of the intelligence and signal routing for the FS II digital wireless intercom system. The Base station is a full-duplex digital matrix communications system, with virtual “ports” for the wireless beltpacks rather than physical ports.
5.2 Understanding Front-Panel Operation A B C D E F G H I J K L Figure 5-1 FS II Base station Front Panel 5.2.1 Call Channel A Pressing buttons (B) & (D) together will send a call signal to the port, group or wireless partyline (WPL) assigned under headset channel A. The Talk button (B) must be engaged momentarily before the Call/Reply (D). 5.2.2 Call Channel B Pressing buttons (E) & (D) together will send a call signal to the port, group or WPL assigned under headset channel B.
Key to FS II Base station front panel Feature Description A Headset connector The 4-pin male XLR-type headset socket connects to Clear-Com headsets and other headsets with 4-pin female connectors. This headset connector is for the on-board two-channel intercom, with controls just to the right of the connector.
Key to FS II Base station front panel Feature H Description Program audio enable switch This latching switch makes any program audio signal that enters via the rearpanel line-level 3-pin XLR connector available to be assigned to wireless beltpacks, either separately or mixed with communications groups. This switch may be “locked” via the front-panel SYSTEM programming menu so that it may not be disengaged accidentally..
6 Programming a system from the Base station This chapter describes how to program the FreeSpeak II system using the Base station front panel controls and menu.
6.1 Introduction An FS II system is programmed using the menus displayed on the Base station’s front panel. Programming the system requires four basic steps: 1) Create individual names (“labels”) for the wireless beltpacks and for the wired devices connected to the Base station. Use individual labels for building “point-topoint” communication paths. Labels are composed of five alphanumeric characters.
6.3 Saving changes The changes are saved and applied automatically when changes are made to the unit’s programming. Five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was turned or pressed, the front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied. 6.4 Changing beltpack labels The first step in creating an FS II system is to create individual names (“labels”) for the wireless beltpacks and for the wired devices connected to the Base station.
3) Scroll all the way to the right of the screen and continue to scroll. The second beltpack programming options menu will be displayed. Figure 6-4 Second beltpack programming menu 4) Scroll to and select LABEL from the menu. A menu to edit the selected beltpack’s label appears, as shown in Figure 6-5 editing a beltpack’s label. The current 5-character label appears, just under its generic name. Figure 6-5 editing a beltpack’s label 5) Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed.
6.5.1 To create a port label 1) From the Base station’s MAIN menu, scroll to and select PORTS (see Figure 6-6 Select “Ports” from the main menu). Figure 6-6 Select “Ports” from the main menu The first AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 6-7 First available ports menu.
Figure 6-10 Editing a port’s label 4) Scroll to and select the alphanumeric character to be changed. A box appears around the character. 5) Rotate the setup/enter encoder. As the encoder is rotated the entire range of available characters appears, starting with upper-case characters, proceeding to lower-case characters, then to digits, and finally to punctuation characters. 6) When the desired new character appears, press the setup/enter encoder to select it.
By scrolling all the way to the right, and then continuing to scroll, the wireless partyline groups appear on the second page of the menu. Figure 6-12 Wireless partyline group labels The generic wireless partyline group labels WP#01 through WP#05 appear on the top row, and their editable versions appear on the lower row. The default values are WPL01 through WPL05. 2) From the AVAILABLE GROUPS menu, select a group label.
6.7 Adding group members When a group name or “label” has been chosen the user may then “populate” that group. Group members are drawn from the individual wireless beltpacks and individual wired devices connected to the FS II Base station. A group created from these devices functions as a partyline, in which all members of the group can communicate simultaneously with all other members of the group.
6) When all of the desired beltpack labels and Base station port labels have been selected, scroll clockwise to BACK and select it to exit the selection process. Continue selecting the BACK command until the desired screen is reached. 7) The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.
• 4 wire ports 1-4 • Stage announce • Program feed • Beltpacks 1-20 • Groups 1-5 • Wireless partylines 1-5 • Interruptible foldback (IFB) 1-10 Figure 6-17 Select the source/destination to assign to that beltpack key 13) Scroll through the list and select the desired source or destination to assign to that beltpack key. A box appears around the selection and the next screen appears for assigning the key type.
18) 6.10 The screen will flash after a change has been made to show that it has been accepted by the system. Setting the beltpack audio level 1) From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (Figure 6-2 Available beltpacks menu). 2) Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed. 3) Select ‘LEVELS’. The beltpack levels editing menu is displayed, as shown in Figure 6-19 Beltpack levels menu.
6.11 Setting beltpack latching Beltpack latching determines whether the beltpack A and B latch when pressed so that the user does not have to keep the button pressed to maintain an audio route, or are non-latching so the audio route is only open when the button is pressed. 1) From the MAIN menu, select BELTPACKS. The AVAILABLE BELTPACKS screen is displayed (see Figure 6-2 Available beltpacks menu). 2) Select the beltpack for which audio levels are to be set. The BELTPACK menu is displayed.
• Setting the “output” level alters how loudly individual ports hear audio sources. For example, to adjust the Stage Announce audio to head set A only, adjust the Output level on that port (HDSTA). See instructions below. 6.13.3 To set the audio level for a port 1) From the MAIN menu, select PORTS. A menu of the available audio ports is displayed. Figure 6-23 Available audio ports menu 2) Select the port for which the audio levels are to be adjusted from the AVAILABLE AUDIO PORTS menu.
7) The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied. 8) Select ‘OUTPUT’ to display the output level setup menu. Figure 6-27 Port output level setup 9) Rotate the setup/enter encoder clockwise or counter clockwise to increase or decrease the output level in 1 dB increments.
3) Select ‘CALLS’ from the menu. The call destination menu will be displayed. Figure 6-30 Port call menu 4) Use the setup/enter encoder to scroll through the available ports and select the required destination port. It is possible to select the source port as the call destination to create an audio loopback system. This may be used for audio testing purposes. Figure 6-31 Port destination select menu 5) When the port is selected, the user is returned to Selected Port Menu for Calls (Step 2).
Figure 6-34 Port call menu 6.15 10) Use the setup/enter encoder to scroll through the available ports and select the required destination port. It is possible to select the source port as the call destination to create an audio loopback system. This may be used for audio testing purposes. 11) The port destination can be cleared by repeating the process and selecting the ‘NONE’ entry.
Figure 6-36 Second partyline connection type menu 5) Select ‘OFF’ to disable partyline termination on the port. This will apply regardless of the type of partyline connected to the port. For example if the partyline is connected to an MS-702 master station with termination enabled the Base station termination must be disabled. 6) The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was pressed or turned.
Scroll through the options to enable or disable the noisegate and use the enter function to select the required state. The main noisegate menu will be redisplayed. 5) Select the level entry to display the partyline level setup menu. Figure 6-39 Partyline noisegate trigger level The vertical bar indicates the noisegate trigger level. Turning the setup encoder clockwise increases the noisegate level (towards the maximum -10dB) and turning it counter clockwise reduces the noisegate level (towards -70dB).
3) Rotate the setup/enter encoder clockwise or counter clockwise to increase or decrease the level in 1 dB increments between -20dB and +6dB. 4) When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter encoder to select it, 5) The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was pressed or turned. The front-panel display flashes to indicate that the changes are being saved and applied.
Figure 6-45 Partyline HiNULL level 6.16 15) Rotate the setup/enter encoder clockwise or counter clockwise to increase or decrease the nulling level in increments of 1 between 0 and 127. 16) When the desired audio level appears on the screen, press and release the setup/enter encoder to select it. 17) The changes are saved and applied automatically five seconds after the last time the setup/enter encoder was pressed or turned.
6.17 System Info When Info is selected the screen displays the system’s current firmware version, DECT system ID (for registering beltpacks), and if applicable, IP address. Figure 6-49 System info menu To return to the SYSTEM menu, press the setup/enter button. 6.18 Restoring the Defaults When F.DEFAULT is selected the factory default map is loaded into memory, the IP address is set to 172.30.3.100 and the IP mask is set to 255.255.0.0 Note: The F.
So, for example, the above display would indicate that five antennas are connected to the Base station in positions 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7. There are no active antennas in positions 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10. There are 4 beltpacks currently connected. Beltpacks 2 and 4 occupy the first 2 slots of antenna 3; beltpack 1 occupies the first slot of antenna 6; and beltpack 3 occupies the first slot of antenna 7. The display updates every 4 seconds to reflect changes in antenna status and beltpack connections.
6.22 Remote microphone kill When RMK is selected the remote microphone kill menu will be displayed. Figure 6-54 Remote MIC kill menu 6.22.1 Kill beltpack microphones Selecting this function will kill the microphones on all the wireless beltpacks connected to the Base station. Beltpack users will have to press a talk key again to re-enable the beltpack microphone. 6.22.
7 Operating the wireless beltpack This chapter explains how to operate the FS II beltpack. It contains the following sections: • Overview of the wireless beltpack • Beltpack user controls • Using the beltpack 7.1 Overview of the wireless beltpack Figure 7-1 FreeSpeak II beltpack An FS II wireless beltpack gives you simultaneous access to up to five channels of talk/listen communication, with the ability to switch among them as desired. Any or all of these routes may be kept open during use.
A 4-pin male headset connector is provided for connection with a standard Clear-Com headset or similar device. The FS II beltpack will operate for approximately 18 hours using a rechargeable Li-Ion battery. Real operational times depend on usage and quality of batteries used. You can also use AA batteries, but you must not attempt to recharge them.
7.2.2 Beltpack display The following table lists the beltpack display icons and indicators. Beltpack display icons and indicators Name Icon Description Key label A descriptive name for the channel. The maximum length is 10 characters (5 characters for the Base station system). Role name A descriptive name for the beltpack role. Channel listen volume level The volume of the channel audio. Signal strength Bars that indicate the strength of the signal from the Main Station.
Key to beltpack front controls Feature Description A Right rotary level control. Turn clockwise or counter-clockwise to adjust volume. In menu mode, turn clockwise or counter-clockwise to navigate the menus. B Power button. Press to power up or power down the beltpack. C Reply key. Reply key can be configured as an extra fifth channel using the Configuration Editor or EHX software. D Menu key. Press firmly for about two seconds to enter menu mode To exit menu mode, press the menu key again.
Key to beltpack bottom connectors Feature Description A LED torch B LED torch control C Headset socket (4-pin XLR–M) Pin Function 1 Mic ground 2 Mic + 3 Earphone ground 4 Earphone Table 7-4: Headset socket pin out D 3.5 mm stereo jack. E Micro USB connector. Table 7-5 Key to beltpack bottom connectors 7.2.
Key to beltpack rear panel Feature Description A Beltpack clip B Beltpack battery compartment Table 7-6 Key to beltpack rear panel 7.3 Using the beltpack 7.3.1 Registering the beltpack Before you can use a beltpack, you must first register it with the FreeSpeak II system. For more information, see 3.4 Registering beltpacks. 7.3.2 Charging the beltpack The beltpack batteries are located inside the beltpack battery compartment.
2) Note: If a beltpack is powered on when placed in the charger, on removal the RF component is re-enabled and the beltpack attempts to reconnect to its previous connection. Note: If a beltpack is powered off when placed in the charger, on removal it will power off. Wait until the recharging LED turns from red to green. The battery is now fully recharged. Figure 7-8 FreeSpeak II battery charger 7.3.3 Powering on the beltpack The recessed power button is used to turn the FS II beltpack on and off.
While the key is held down audio transmits on that channel. When the key is released audio no longer transmits. To latch a key on for hands-free use, quickly tap the key. Another quick tap releases the latch. 5) Speak into the headset microphone. To adjust the volume of incoming audio for a channel, turn the appropriate sidemounted rotary control. Turn the rotary control clockwise to increase the volume, and counter-clockwise to decrease volume. The current volume level for the channel is shown on screen.
8 Programming on the beltpack This chapter explains how to program the beltpack using the beltpack's menu system.
To return to the previous screen, press the Menu Cancel key (C). You can also return to the previous screen by pressing the Menu key. Each menu screen on the beltpack has the following structure: • Header - this displays the menu title • Body - this displays a scrollable list of menu items • Footer - this displays the current value of the current menu selection To exit the beltpack menus, press and hold the Menu key. 8.
8.2.3 2) Turn either rotary control clockwise to highlight Line In Vol Lvl, and press the Menu Select key (D). 3) Use either rotary control to select between -15 dB to 6dB 4) To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key (D). Configuring the rotary controls You can configure the rotary controls on the beltpack to either: • Control the volume of the audio on keys A and B • Control the master volume of the beltpack audio.
4) 8.3.2 • On • Off To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key (D). Setting the sidetone level Use this setting to set the level of the sidetone. You can either set the sidetone to a fixed level, or choose to have the sidetone track the master volume level. To set sidetone to a fixed level: 8.3.3 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Headset Options > Sidetone > Sidetone Level.
2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Mic Options > Mic Type. 3) Use either rotary control to select between: 4) 8.4.2 • Automatic (default) • Electret • Dynamic Unbalanced To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key (D). Setting the microphone echo cancellation Use this setting to improve the microphone audio quality. 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key.
4) 8.5.2 To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key. Setting the display dim timeout Use this setting to determine when the beltpack display will dim if no key is used or there is no incoming call or call alert. 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Display Options > Dim Timeout 3) Use either rotary control to select the dim level between Off and 120 seconds (default). Note: 4) 8.5.
• Audio warning and vibrate • Off 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Alarm Options > Alarm Mode. 3) Use either rotary control to select between: 4) 8.6.2 • Vibrate & Audio (default) • Vibrate Only • Audio Only • Off To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key (D).
4) 8.6.4 To confirm the selection and exit the menu screen, press the Menu Select key (D). Setting the call alert Use this setting to determine what kind of alert the beltpack issues when it receives an incoming call. You can set the following alerts: • Audio warning • Vibrate • Audio warning and vibrate • Off 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Alarm Options > Call Alert Mode.
• System sync mode 8.8.1 Enabling OTA registration mode Use this setting to enable or disable system pairing mode. Enable this mode if you want to register a beltpack over the air. 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Admin Options. You will be prompted to enter a four digit code. The default code is 4632. 3) Select Enable Pair Mode. 4) Use either rotary control to select between: 5) 8.8.
8.8.3 Setting system sync mode Use this setting to make antenna synchronization readings. 8.9 1) To enter the beltpack menu, press and hold the Menu key. 2) Use the rotary and Menu Select keys to select Settings > Admin Options. You will be prompted to enter a four digit code. The default code is 4632. 3) Select System Sync. 4) Use either rotary control to select the antenna group to synchronize.
SW (software) Version number Beltpack. ID (beltpack identity) ID number RFP (Remote Fixed Part – antenna/receiver) ID number Regional (DECT frequency area) DECT region. For example, US_DECT. Battery Level Percentage charge, hours of use Table 8-1 Beltpack information 8.11 Setting display mode You can select between two display modes: Intercom mode and Partyline mode. Note: 8.12 You can only access this option if you have advanced menu access.
2) Go to SETTINGS -> ADMIN OPTIONS 3) Enter the admin code using the left and right hand rotary controllers on the beltpack. 4) If the admin code is successful, the beltpack will display the ‘Enable Pair Mode’ screen. 5) Press the D key on the beltpack to select this option. 6) A confirmation screen will appear. Select Y to confirm. The system will now be open for registration for 2 minutes. 7) 8.14 Note: From the beltpack to be registered, follow the registration procedure. See 3.4.
9 Operating the transceiver/antenna This chapter describes how to use the FreeSpeak II transceiver/antenna. It contains the following sections: • Transceiver/antenna • Transceiver/antenna splitter (PD2203) 9.1 Transceiver/antenna The FS II transceiver/antennas form the transmission link between the FS II beltpacks and the FS II Base station. It has internal omnidirectional (all directions/circular coverage) antennas.
FS II transceiver/antenna connector panel C G B D G G A G E G 9.1.2 Figure 9-2 FS II Transceiver/Antenna Connector Panel Key to transceiver/antennas Feature Description A USB connector. Used to upgrade the firmware in the FS II-TA. B Base/Matrix connector. This RJ-45/etherCON connector is used to connect the bi-directional signal from the Base station, directly or via the splitter.
Key to transceiver/antennas Feature E 9.1.3 Description (distances up to 300 metres, or 925 feet, from the Base station or the splitter) being powered via the FS II Base station. Mode button. The mode button is currently not in use. Cabling the antennas See 3.2.1Wiring the antennas and splitters. 9.1.4 Beltpack support capacities for transceiver/antennas Each transceiver/antenna can support five beltpacks within one coverage zone.
objects. They can be reflected and/or stopped by metallic objects such as structural beams, safety doors, lighting equipment and truss, bodies of water, and so on. Under ideal conditions, the maximum range between an FS II beltpack and a transceiver/antenna is 500 metres. Typical distances are between approximately 50 metres (about 160 feet) and 150 metres (about 485 feet), depending on the particular environment.
9.2.1 PD2203 Front connector panel Figure 9-3 FS II Splitter Front Connector Panel 9.2.1.1 Base station connection indicator light This yellow light indicates that the PD2203 splitter is receiving data from the FS II Base station. 9.2.1.2 Matrix (FS II Base station) connector This RJ-45 connector accepts a 4-pair data cable from the FS II Base station transceiver port.
9.2.2 PD2203 rear panel Figure 9-4 FS II Splitter Rear Connector Panel 9.2.2.1 Serial data connector This 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) tip-ring-sleeve (TRS) connector is used for upgrading the firmware in the PD2203. It will typically be unused. 9.2.2.2 Power Indicator This green LED indicates that the splitter is receiving power from the external power supply. 9.2.2.3 DC IN power connector This connector is used to locally power the antenna splitter with the supplied universal power supply.
10 FS II Configuration Editor This chapter explains how to use the Configuration Editor software to program the FreeSpeak II system. Configuration Editor is a convenient and flexible tool that allows you to quickly and easily create or edit configurations. You can use the FS II Configuration Editor to extract, backup, edit and restore configurations from the FS II Base stations.
10.1 Loading configurations When you start the Configuration Editor the following screen appears: Figure 10-1 Configuration Editor Initial Screen You can either load a local configuration file from disk, or extract one from a Base station. 10.1.1 Loading a local configuration file To load a configuration from disk: 1) Click Load. The following dialog box appears: 2) Browse on your local disk for the configuration file. Note: 3) 10.1.2 Configuration files end in a .map extension. Click Open.
3) In the Serial Comms section of the screen, click Retrieve. If the program fails to connect to the Base station, the following dialog appears: Figure 10-2 Configuration Editor Serial Timeout If this occurs, check the cable, PC and Base station connection, and also make sure that 30 seconds have elapsed since powering on the Base station to ensure that serial comms have been activated.
10.1.3 Loading a configuration from a Base station using Ethernet 1) Connect the PC and the Base station to the local network and set up an IP address on the Base station. Note: 2) You can set the Base station IP address in the Configuration Editor under the System tab, and on the Base station using the System menu.
10.1.4 Loading a configuration file to the Base station from the Configuration Editor You can load an edited configuration file from the Configuration Editor to the Base station using: • A serial link • Ethernet 10.1.4.1 1) Re-connect the Base station (if it has been disconnected) and ensure that at least 30 seconds elapse since Base station power-up to allow serial comms to be activated. 2) In the Serial comms area of the Configuration Editor screen, click Apply.
• Diagnostics – Opens the FS II Diagnostics Tool. Allows you to view the current state of the Base station, including beltpack and transceiver/antenna statuses and the Base station event log. • Help - Opens the online help for the Configuration Editor • Clear Map - Clears the current file from the Configuration Editor buffer. All the parameters set in the editor will be reset to the startup defaults. • Send File - Sends a firmware file (normally a 4kr file) to the Base station.
3) Now take the beltpack you wish to register. On the beltpack to be registered, hold the menu key for two seconds to enter MENU options. Scroll to SYSTEM CONNECT using the rotary controllers and select it using key D. In menu mode the D key on the beltpack operates as SELECT and the C key exits the menu level and cancels the selection. Note: 4) On a new system there will be no previous connections at this point. However, if the beltpack has been connected previously, a confirmation screen will appear.
visible. This shows that the beltpack has been previously registered with the system which will recognise it. 10.4 5) Enter the four digit pairing code for the system using both rotary controllers and the menu select key (D). The default code is 0000. 6) Select an available role from the list displayed on the beltpack. 7) The beltpack is now paired and ready for operation. 8) If required, the next beltpack can now be registered (step 3).
10.4.2 Registering beltpacks using the micro USB cable When beltpacks are first registered with a Base station they must be paired with the Base station using the procedure below. You can now edit the beltpacks using the Configuration Editor or the Base station front panel menus. 1) First load or retrieve a configuration file. See 10.1 Loading configurations. 2) Connect the beltpack to the PC using the standard beltpack micro USB cable and power it on.
Figure 10-8 Beltpack overview 2) 10.4.4 Click OK to close the Overview window. Viewing beltpack properties The Set Properties button opens the beltpack properties screen. This allows the beltpack defaults to be configured and downloaded to a beltpack as part of the map. Beltpack setting defaults can be stored and restored in the editor and factory default settings recalled. To view the beltpack properties: 1) Connect the beltpack to the computer. 2) Switch on the beltpack. 3) Click Set Properties.
Figure 10-9 Beltpack properties 10.4.4.1 Recalling default settings Recall defaults resets the properties to a previously stored set of values saved using Remember My Default Settings. • Click Recall My Default Settings to read back and display the default settings from the connected beltpack. Note: The settings read back are NOT the same settings entered via the beltpacks menu options. 10.4.4.
10.4.4.4 Closing the Properties window • Click CLOSE WINDOW to return to the Configuration Editor main screen. 10.4.5 Beltpack audio levels The following sections describe how to configure the beltpack audio levels. Headset Limiter Use this option to assign a limit to the headset audio. • From the Headset Limiter list, select a headset limiter setting. The settings run from -12dB to +8dB in steps of 1dB. The default is 0dB. Note: The lowest level may vary depending on model type and software version.
10.4.6 Beltpack alarm options The following sections describe how to configure the beltback alarm options. The beltpack issues alarms when: • The beltpack battery is low • The beltpack is out of antenna reception range • The beltpack receives an incoming call Setting the battery alarm mode Use this option to determine what kind of alarm the beltpack issues.
10.4.7 Setting the beltpack role options Use this option to determine the beltpack role options. Setting the display brightness Use this option to adjust the display brightness. • From the Display Brightness list, select a display brightness from 1 to 5. Note: The factory default is 5. Setting when the screen automatically dims The beltpack display will dim if no key is used or there is no incoming call or call alert after a certain timeout period.
o Main > Display Mode o Main > Settings > Headset Options > Headset Limiter • Basic – all menu options are available except: o Main > Volume Level Control o Main > Line In Volume Level o Main > Admin Options o Main > System Connect o Main > Information • None – no menu options are available except: • Main > Admin Options (admin code required) The factory default is Normal.
2) Click on the down arrow beside each window to open a drop-down menu of all the available ports or key types and select the required item. The selected item will appear in the window. Note: If the key assignment is ‘----’ then the beltpack key is locked and cannot be used. For an explanation of the available port types abbreviations see Table 10-1 Available port types.
1) From the Name list, select the beltpack. 2) From the Reply key list, select REPLY. To assign a call destination: 3) From the Name list, select the beltpack. 4) From the Reply key list, select a destination from the drop-down list. To deactivate the REPLY key: 5) From the Name list, select the beltpack. 6) From the Reply key list, select ----. 10.4.10 Key assignment types By default an assignment is talk only; however 4-wire and partyline inputs can be selected as the following: • Listen.
Figure 10-11 Ports Tab 10.5.1 Selecting the port to edit To select a port to edit: • Use the arrow buttons next to the Port edit box to make a selection. 10.5.2 Changing the label of the port To change the port label: • Select the port to be changed, and then over-type the text in the Port edit box. 10.5.3 Selecting the port type You can only select a port type when a partyline port is selected.
The selection affects the gain, termination and call signaling used when communicating with this port. Figure 10-12 Partyline Port Type Menu 10.5.4 Selecting a communication path for the port For headset, partyline, 4-wire ports and IFBs, you can select an audio path to determine the destination for the port. To do so: 1) From the Cross Point Assignment left list, select the audio destination for the port.
Figure 10-13 Cross Point List for Port 114 FreeSpeak II User Guide
Figure 10-14 Partyline Crosspoint Type 10.5.5 Setting the input, output and VOX levels The input level determines the level at which other users will hear a port, and the output level determines the level at which the port hears other users. If VOX is enabled, the VOX level specifies the audio level at which a VOX triggered audio path is set. The VOX trigger level can be set in the range -70dB to -10dB. To set an input, output or VOX level, • From the Input, Output or VOX list, select an input value.
Figure 10-15 Groups Tab 10.6.1 Selecting the group to edit To select a group to edit: • Use the arrow buttons next to the Group edit box to make a selection. 10.6.2 Changing the label of the group To change the group label: • Select the group to be changed, and then over-type the text in the Group edit box. 10.6.3 Changing the members of the group The Groups/WPL tab displays two lists of members.
10.6.4 Displaying a group overview To display a group overview: • Click Overview to display an overview of group membership for all groups. Figure 10-16 Group Overview Display The groups are listed along the top and the total membership of all the groups is listed down the side. Wherever a member of a group is online an x will be displayed on the view at the intersection between the member and the group. 10.
Figure 10-17 Antennas Tab 1) From each Antenna list, select the appropriate cable length. Figure 10-18 Antenna Cable Length Setup 2) 10.8 Download the changes to the Base station with reset.
Figure 10-19 IFB Configuration Tab 10.8.1 Selecting the IFB to edit To select an IFB to edit: • From the IFB Label list, select the required label. 10.8.2 Changing the label of the IFB To change the IFB label: • Select the label to be changed, and then over-type the text in the IFB Label edit box. 10.8.3 Changing the IFB sources The IFB tab displays two lists of sources. The Sources Available list shows the sources available, and the Sources Selected list shows the current sources.
10.9 Configuring Base station system parameters From the Configuration Editor, you can use the System tab to assign IP addresses to the Base station and set pin numbers and access codes. You can also enable Over The Air (OTA) beltpack registration. 10.9.1 Editing the system parameters: To edit the system parameters: 1) Select the System tab. The following screen appears. Figure 10-20 System Tab 2) 10.9.2 Edit the required system fields.
1) At the bottom of the screen, select Diagnostics. The following screen appears: Figure 10-21 Diagnostics connection 2) Enter the IP address of the Base station and click OK. After connection, the following screen appears. Figure 10-22 Diagnostics screen 3) From the list on the upper left of the screen, select the option you require. 10.10.1 Beltpack status The Beltpack Status screen shows the current status of each FreeSpeak II beltpack on the matrix.
• The antenna currently used by the beltpack • The DECT error rate of the beltpack • The DECT signal strength of the beltpack • The battery level of the beltpack, in hours and minutes if using Li-Ion batteries, or percentage remaining if using AA. • The type of the battery (Li-Ion or AA) • Whether a log is available on the beltpack • Whether the beltpack is live logging For the error rate, signal strength and battery levels, values are provided in both graphical and text forms.
When the live log is open in a new window, users have the option of also seeing any live logging data for antennas that is currently being output from the matrix. The Live Log window shows the following details for each log: • Time • Category • Peripheral Type (Beltpack or antenna) • Port • Detail When a log is saved, the output file is a CSV file containing the same information shown in the log window. 10.10.
For antennas, you can see: • Whether the antenna is online or not • The antenna port and antenna label • The cable length compensation • Whether a log is available on the antenna • Whether the antenna is live logging Live logging, static logging and navigation to the cards and ports screen entry for the antenna are all the same as the beltpack status screen. 10.10.4 Antenna roles The Antenna Roles screen shows which beltpack roles are currently operating on each transceiver/antenna.
Figure 10-25 Antenna roles 10.10.5 Event Log The Event Log shows a list of log messages produced by the Base station.
Figure 10-26 Event Log To start receiving messages from the Base station, from the right hand pane click Play.
11 Specifications 11.1 FreeSpeak II Base station Base station-to-Beltpack Frequency Response 100 Hz – 7.
11.2 Dimensions 1-RU unit, 44 x 483 x 312 mm (hwd) (1.75 x 19.0 x 12.5 inches) Weight Approx. 4.5 Kg (10 lb). FreeSpeak II Beltpack Beltpack Frequency Response 100 Hz – 7.
Maximum Distance, Base station to Transceiver Via Base station Port 1,000 m (3,200 ft.) using 24 AWG cable 500 m (1,600 ft) using 26 AWG cable Maximum Distance, Transceiver Powered By Base station Port 300 m (975 ft.) Local Powering Via 24VDC power supply Connection to FreeSpeak Base station RJ-45 11.4 Mounting 3 fixing holes Dimensions 50 x 140 x 175 mm (dwh) (2.0 x 5.5 x 6.9 inches) Weight Approx. 460g (16.1 oz).
100 mW burst, average level 2 - 4 mW (US) Theory of Operation Dynamic allocation of frequencies and handoff of beltpacks among the transceiver/antennas up to their individual limit of 5 connected beltpacks at a time; each beltpack is assigned a “virtual port” within the FreeSpeak Base station. NOTICE ABOUT SPECIFICATIONS While Clear-Com makes every attempt to maintain the accuracy of the information contained in its product manuals, that information is subject to change without notice.
12 Compliance FCC Notice: Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
IC Notice: This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence.
Waste Electrical And Electronic Equipment (WEEE) The European Union (EU) WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) places an obligation on producers (manufacturers, distributors and/or retailers) to take-back electronic products at the end of their useful life. The WEEE Directive covers most Clear-Com products being sold into the EU as of August 13, 2005.
