Qsc Network Audio Systems Users Manual

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N E T W O R K

A U D I O

S Y S T E M S

QSControl (pronounced Q’s Control) is a powerful
and flexible system that provides remote
management and diagnostics of QSC amplifiers
and other audio devices over an Ethernet
network—including selected QSC DSP devices,
such as the DSP-3 digital signal processor. You
can monitor and control hundreds of amplifiers
simultaneously, as well as perform a wide range
of advanced functions, including event logging,
real-time monitoring of loudspeaker opens and
shorts, plus configuration of the DSP-3 module.
A QSControl system is composed of a System
Controller (a Microsoft Windows-based PC)
running QSControl Software that is linked via
Ethernet to CM16a Amplifier Network Monitors or
other networked audio devices. Each CM16a
provides sixteen channels of remote level
adjustment and amplifier management for
DataPort-equipped QSC amplifiers.

6
5

Key Components of QSControl

System Controller
and
QSControl Software
Located either on or off site.

CM16a Amplifier Network Monitor

Typical Audio
Sources and
Processors

Each CM16a performs monitoring and control functions for QSC DataPortequipped amplifiers using DataPort cables 2 . Further, the CM16a connects
to QSC’s family of digital signal processors such as the DSP-3.

4
Ethernet Switch

3

2

QSC CM16a

DataPort
Cables

The CM16a Amplifier Network Monitor 3 offers powerful amplifier
management in a QSControl networked audio system, using Ethernet 4
technology to communicate with the host system controller. The System
Controller 6 uses application software 5 to operate the networked
audio system, including the CM16a units and their amplifiers 1 .

Speakers

Control Application Software
There are two ways to run QSControl applications on the System Controller.
The first is with System Manager, QSC’s standard application included with
the QSControl system, requiring no user programming. The second is to
create a custom application using the QSControl Development Tools in
Microsoft Visual Basic. Using these tools, the system can be customized to
your specifications.

1
QSC Amplifiers

System Controller
QSControl Software runs on a computer configured with select Microsoft
operating systems—including Windows® 2000. The Graphical User Interface
(GUI) program controls QSC’s and third-party networking products.

To Additional
Equipment

Hear the Power of Technology.

1675 MacArthur Boulevard
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Ph: 800/854-4079 or 714/957-7100
Fax: 714/754-6174
www.qscaudio.com
email: info@qscaudio.com

QSControl Amplifier Network Monitor

CM16a
The CM16a Amplifier Network Monitor is a key hardware component of QSControl, QSC’s
Ethernet-based audio network. Each CM16a provides sixteen channels of audio level control,
monitoring, and amplifier management for DataPort-equipped QSC amplifiers. The CM16a is

Mandalay Bay Resort, Las Vegas

operated remotely by a Windows-based PC functioning as the System Controller running
QSControl application software. Control and monitor data is communicated between the System
Controller and CM16a over an Ethernet network. The CM16a, located in the amplifier rack, is linked
to amplifiers via DataPort cables. The CM16a also serves as the network interface for QSC’s digital
signal processors, including the DSP-3.

Petronas Towers, Malaysia

Input / Output Control and Monitoring
■
■
■
■
■
■
■

Input sensitivity selection: 1V or 3V
Input source select: Normal/Page
Level control
Pre-/Post-fader audio signal monitoring
Mute control
Signal polarity control
Pre-/Post-fader signal level metering

Amplifier Output Monitoring
■
■
■
■
■

Output voltage and current metering
Output power in watts
Output clip detection monitoring
Headroom metering
Output signal (speaker terminal) audio monitoring

Heinz Field, Pittsburgh

Load Monitoring
■
■
■

Open/shorted load detection
Adjustable threshold for detecting load opens and shorts
Continuously updated average impedance measurement

Amplifier Management
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■

AC standby/operate mode selection
AC mode indication (Off/Standby/On)
Protect status monitoring
Operating temperature metering
Overtemp indicator with adjustable overtemp threshold
Gain control monitoring
Model ID indication
Bridge Mono/Parallel/Stereo mode indication

Miller Park, Milwaukee

Other Features
■
■
■

■
■
■
■
■
■

Fifteen user-definable configuration presets
RS-232 port for diagnostics and preset control
Internal sine wave signal generator available for system diagnostics
(accessible via Telenet only)
Page input with selectable 1V or 3V sensitivity
One contact closure input
One floating dry-contact SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) relay output
Audio monitor bus with selectable tap points, mixing, and balanced I/O
Recessed front panel bypass switch
Firmware is updateable via the network to add future upgrades
The Galaxy Theater, California

Specifications

Power Amplifier Management

Input Signal
Frequency Response

20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.5 dB
10 Hz to 80 kHz, ±3 dB

Distortion

<0.01% THD+N @ +4 dBu out
(page input <0.03%)

Dynamic Range

>110 dB unweighted (20 Hz–20 kHz)
(page input >100 dB)

Polarity

In-phase or reversed

Level Control Range

-95.5 to 0 dB in 0.5 dB steps

Precision Attenuator Transients
(“zipper noise”)

better than 112 dB below maximum output

Mute

>90 dB attenuation

Inputs
Program inputs
Paging input
Monitor bus input
Connector type
Type
Grounding
Nominal level
Maximum level
Impedance
Common-mode rejection
Crosstalk (inter-channel
within DataPort pair)
Crosstalk (intra-channel
between DataPorts)

Outputs
Program outputs
Connector type
Cable type
Qualified length
Monitor output
Connector
Type
Grounding
Nominal level
Maximum level
Output impedance
Output load

16
1
Dedicated input with configurable
routing to any or all 16 input sections
1
“Phoenix-style” (a.k.a. “Euro-style”)
detachable terminal blocks
Electronically balanced
All shield terminals connected
to chassis
1V/3V rms selectable (-10 dBV/+4 dBu)
+21 dBu
25 kΩ balanced
Typical, >50 dB, 20 Hz-20 kHz
Worst Case, >40 dB at 20 kHz
>75 dB separation (20 Hz–20 kHz)
>90 dB separation, 20 Hz-20 kHz
measured with all inputs and
outputs terminated
16 (via HD-15)
8 HD-15 DataPort connections
VGA monitor cable 1
2 meters
1
“Phoenix-style” (a.k.a. “Euro-style”)
detachable terminal blocks
Electronically balanced
Shield terminal connected to chassis
+4 dBu
+21 dBu
75Ω balanced
600Ω min

Power Amplifier Output Monitoring
Output Short Detect*

Senses load <1Ω for Stereo/Parallel modes;
<2Ω Bridge Mono mode (default threshold)
Threshold is adjustable in software

Power Amplifier Interface
Compatibility
Connector and cable

Amplifiers
Amplifier AC Power Control
AC mode control
AC power indicator
Amplifier Status Monitor
Clip indicator
Protect indicator
Temperature meter
Over-temp. alert

QSC DataPort-equipped amplifiers
HD-15 VGA cable 1, 2 meters length 2
qualified (for longer runs, contact QSC’s
Technical Services Department)
Up to 16 channels (8 DataPorts) of
QSC DataPort-equipped amplifiers
Switches amplifier between operate
and standby mode
Indicates operate, standby, or
power-down mode
Senses channel clip status
Senses amplifier protect status
Reports amplifier operating temperature
Software adjustable threshold (80°C default)

Control Room Foldback Monitoring
Number of Signal
Monitoring Buses per CM16a

1

Number of Channels per CM16a

4

Internal Signal Monitor Points
(each with individual level controls)
Pre-fader input signal
Post-fader input signal
Power amplifier output

16
16
16

Monitor Input
Monitor in to monitor out
Nominal level
Maximum level
Input impedance
Configuration
Common-mode rejection

Output
Frequency response
Distortion
Dynamic range
Noise floor
Nominal level
Maximum level
Output impedance
Output load
Configuration

(Maximum number assigned
to monitor mix at one time)

Summed with internal monitor mix
at unity gain
0 dB, ±1 dB
+4 dBu
+21 dBu
10kΩ balanced
Active balanced, shield connected to chassis
Worst case, >54 dB at 20 Hz rolling off to
>40 dB at 20 kHz
Typical case, >50 dB 20 Hz-20 kHz
Sum of external monitor input and signals
from internal monitor mix
20 Hz–20 kHz, ± 0.5 dB
<.05% THD @ +4 dBu out
>90.5 dB unweighted, 22 Hz–22 kHz
-90.5 dB
+4 dBu
+21 dBu
75Ω balanced
600Ω min
Active balanced

RS-232 Port

Output Open Detect*

Senses load >60Ω (default threshold)
Threshold is adjustable in software

Cable Type

Null-Modem (a.k.a. Laplink), female 9-pin
D-sub chassis connector

Output Voltage Meter

Range automatically matches to
amplifier model used

Port Settings

Output Current Meter

Range automatically matches to
amplifier model used

Amplifier Headroom

Reports remaining available power

Bits per Second
Data Bits
Parity
Stop Bits
Flow Control

Amplifier Gain*

Calculates and reports amplifier gain
(knob setting)

*Signal level must be higher than -32 dB, referenced to maximum output of amplifier

Page Input

9600
8
none
1
Xon/Xoff

Contact Closure Inputs and Outputs
Inputs
Configuration
Resistance for closure detect
Resistance for open detect
Input voltage limit

1 discrete input
Single-ended input
< 1kΩ max
> 5kΩ min
7.000 VDC maximum
(“-” input terminal connected to chassis)

Output
Configuration

1 discrete output
Electromechanical relay, dry contacts,
floating, C, NC, NO
Maximum steady-state current 0.5A
Maximum switched current
0.25A
Ground isolation
70V maximum

Connector

“Phoenix-style” (a.k.a. “Euro-style”)
detachable terminal block connectors

Network Interface
Physical Network
Raw data rate
Frame format
Connector
Ethernet type
Cable type
Max cable length
Grounding

Ethernet
10 megabits per second
D.I.X. (Ethernet)
RJ-45 female
10BASE-T: (via RJ-45)
10BASE-T: CAT-3 (or better) twisted pair
10BASE-T: 100 m to hub
Floating

Transport Network
Internetwork protocol
Transport protocol

TCP/IP
IP
UDP

Application Protocol
Version
Revision

QSC24
1
7

General
Physical
Height
Width
Depth
Weight
Mounting
Operating Temp.
AC Power
Voltage
Current
Frequency

1.72" (1RU)
19" (standard rack mount)
14.84" (37.7 cm), including rear supports
11 lbs. (5 kg)
Rear support recommended for portable
or mobile use
0 to 50° C
100-240 VAC (Universal Supply)
1A RMS @ 120V, 1.1A RMS @ 100V,
0.5A RMS @ 230V
47–440 Hz

Specifications subject to change.

Architect’s and Engineer’s Specification

The CM16a Amplifier Network Monitor shall provide input, output,
status monitoring, and control for DataPort equipped QSC power
amplifiers in an Ethernet-TCP/IP based network audio system. Sixteen
independent channels shall be provided, grouped in pairs to support up
to sixteen power amplifier channels.
Amplifier Input Control and Monitoring. For each of the sixteen power
amplifier input signals, the CM16a shall provide level, mute and polarity
control, pre- and post-fader signal level metering and audio monitoring,
and selectable +4 dBu/-10 dBV (3V/1V) input sensitivity.
The CM16a shall provide a page input, separate from the normal
program inputs, whose signal may preempt the program signal of any
or all of the sixteen program channels. This input shall have selectable
+4 dBu/-10 dBV (3V/1V) sensitivity.
The CM16a shall provide for the storage and recall of up to sixteen
different presets, numbered 0 through 15. Each preset shall be a
“snapshot” of all of the CM16a functions and settings. Preset #0 shall be
the default boot-up preset.
Amplifier Output Monitoring. For each of the sixteen power amplifier
outputs, the CM16a shall provide clip detect monitoring, short/open
circuit detect, voltage and current metering, amplifier headroom, load
impedance, real output power to load, and audio monitoring of the
voltage signal.
Amplifier Management. For each of the DataPort connected power
amplifiers, the CM16a shall provide AC standby/operate mode control,
AC power state indication, temperature metering, amp gain settings
(front panel knob position with respect to full output), over-temperature
detection, stereo/parallel/bridge-mono indication, amplifier model
detection, and protect status detection (subject to the capabilities of
each amplifier).
Audio Monitoring Chain. For each of the sixteen program channels, the
CM16a shall provide three monitor points as follows: (1) pre-fader level
control, (2) post-fader level control, or (3) power amplifier output. A
channel’s monitor output may be selected from one of these three
signals, or it may be switched off. The signal at the CM16a’s monitor
output connector shall be the sum of the signal at its monitor input
connector and as many as four of the sixteen channel monitor signals
at one time per CM16a. A monitor level control shall be provided for
each monitor tap point to adjust the individual levels of the channel
monitor signals prior to their being mixed with the monitor input signal.
Contact Closure I/O. The CM16a shall provide one trigger contact-closure
sense input which shall also be TTL signal compatible, and one drycontact floating SPDT relay output. These shall be under software control,
with functions definable by the QSControl custom software application.
The contact closure sense input shall be capable of toggling between
presets 14 and 15, regardless of the computer’s connection status.
Data Network. All CM16a functions shall be controlled and monitored
via an Ethernet digital control network using the TCP/IP transport
protocol and the QSC-24 control and monitoring application protocol.
Rear-panel connections shall be provided for 10BASE-T Ethernet
utilizing a standard RJ-45 Unshielded Twisted Pair Category-5
connection. Other than the AC power and bypass switches, the CM16a
shall have no manual controls. A 9-pin, “D” subminiature connector
shall be provided to allow interfacing to an RS-232 connection. This
connector shall be used for CM16a setup, testing, diagnostics, and
limited control functions.
Amplifier Interface. The CM16a’s interface to each power amplifier
DataPort shall be via a HD-15 connector. The amplifier interface shall
use a standard personal computer Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) CRT
monitor cable 1. This interface shall transmit two amplifier input audio
signals as well as all control and monitoring signals. Special signal
conditioning and grounding techniques shall be used in this interface to
ensure negligible levels of noise and crosstalk.
General. All audio inputs and outputs shall be balanced with a nominal
input level of +4 dBu and maximum level of +21 dBu. Input connectors
shall be of the “Euro-style” depluggable barrier strip type.

1
2

QSC DataPort cable required for connection with QSC DSP devices.
For lengths greater than 2 meters, a QSC DataPort cable is recommended.

QSControl Network Audio Systems

Block Diagram of the CM16a

Port A Ch 1

Port A Ch 2

Input
Source
Normal
/ Page

Input
Sensitivity
3V / 1V

Input
Source
Normal
/ Page

Meter
Mon (Pre)
Meter

Parallel
Stereo Mode

Mon (Pre)

Power
Status
Detect

Standby /
Operate
Control

Output
Open
Detect

Output
Short
Detect

Protect
Status
Detect

Load
Monitor
Detect

Real
Power
Detect

Amp
Model
Detect

Bridge
Mode
Detect

Output
Open
Detect

Output
Short
Detect

Protect
Status
Detect

Load
Monitor
Detect

Real
Power
Detect

Amp Functions

Meter

Level Control
-95.5 to 0 dB
0.5 dB steps

Mute

Level Control
-95.5 to 0 dB
0.5 dB steps

Mute

Ch 1

Polarity
Mon (Post)
Meter

Ch 2

Polarity
Mon (Post)

Clip
Detect

Amp
Gain
Detect

Overtemp
Detect

Heatsink
Temp

Headroom
Meter

Output
Current
Meter

Output
Voltage
Meter

Clip
Detect

Amp
Gain
Detect

Overtemp
Detect

Heatsink
Temp

Headroom
Meter

Output
Current
Meter

Output
Voltage
Meter

DataPort A

Ch 1
Functions
Mon (Amp)

Mon (Amp)

Ch 2
Functions

DataPorts B through H (same as DataPort A)
Input

Audio Monitor Chain
(Summing Bus)

Input
Sensitivity
3V / 1V

RLY
Out

NC

RLY
C

From
Mon

Internal DAC
(for Test Tones
and Playback)

Page

NO

Tap Points

Mon 1
Mon 2
Mon 3
Mon 4

Up to four signals may be
sent to the Monitor Bus at
one time. Each tap has
its own gain adjust.

Input

RLY
Trig in

Contact
Closure
I/O

Output

Monitor
Chain

Monitor
Chain

RS-232

Ethernet
Internal
Micro-Controller

Serial I/O (DB-9)

Minimum Recommended Specifications for the System Controller
Processor
RAM
Hard Disk
Floppy
CD-Rom
Network
Network Configuration
Modem
Video
Sound
Keyboard
Mouse
Operating System

866 MHz Intel Pentium™ III processor
128 MB, 133 MHz bus
4 GB or greater Ultra DMA
3.5" 1.44 MB drive
40x or greater IDE
10/100BASE-T
TCP/IP host
56k V.90 internal PCI (optional)
2D/3D Graphics, 133/100 MHz, 4 MB Display cache or better
Sound Blaster® compatible (optional)
104 key, PS/2 compatible
PS/2 compatible
Windows NT-4 (SP-6) or Windows 2000 (SP-2)

All specifications are subject to change.

Power Amplifier DataPort Interface

Audio
Inputs

Input
Sensitivity
3V / 1V

QSControl Software

QSControl Software allows you to view and adjust signal controls with
the click of a mouse. You can use System Manager, a standard
application included with QSControl Software, or design a custom
application tailored to your specific needs with easy-to-use Visual Basic.
QSControl Software significantly expands the system’s overall
capabilities. Users can now create custom applications with “drag-anddrop” programming, minimizing the need to write code. In addition to
amplifier management, users can control additional audio components
including MIDI devices. A QSControl system can also be accessed and
controlled by multiple System Controllers from multiple locations.
The software supports the CM16a Amplifier Network Monitor, a
1RU unit that links the PC to networked QSC amplifiers to provide remote
control and monitoring functions. The CM16a enables QSControl’s
amplifier monitoring functions by allowing users to adjust thresholds for
detecting load opens and shorts, monitor average load impedance, monitor
amplifier output in watts, and view amplifier headroom. The CM16a
supports all QSC DataPort-equipped amplifiers, including the 4- and 8channel models. The QSControl architecture supports network
communications of QSC’s digital signal processors, such as the DSP-3, via
CM16a DataPorts. Users can also apply future CM16a firmware updates
quickly and easily from a remote PC via Ethernet.

Using Microsoft’s Visual
Basic, custom screens

System Manager

and panels can be

System Manager requires no programming whatsoever to operate the
system. You can perform comprehensive signal metering and gain
adjustment for each amplifier:

created to display and

■
■
■
■
■

■

■

Adjust input sensitivity for 3-volts or 1-volt
Adjust input levels to the amplifier
Meter pre-fader and post-fader levels
Invert the signal polarity
Override each channel with an auxiliary input that can be used
for emergency paging
Fold back audio to the front-of-house or control position from
selectable points in the audio chain: pre-fader, post-fader,
or the amplifier output
Up to sixteen configuration presets can be recalled automatically

control all aspects of
your system. You can
even control 3rd party
gear over MIDI, RS-232,
Ethernet, etc.

QSControl’s improved
System Manager requires
no programming to
configure and control your

You can also perform comprehensive amplifier management:
■
■

■

■

■

■

Control amplifier power state (On /Standby)
Monitor amplifier status including clip, protect, and operating
temperature
Monitor amplifier output including voltage, current, power in
watts, and headroom
Load status, including average load resistance and adjustable
thresholds for detecting loudspeaker opens and shorts
Amplifier configuration, including gain control settings and
stereo, parallel, or bridge mode
Monitor amplifier’s power status and AC standby mode

System Manager also provides an Event Log that allows you to keep
track of system events such as amplifier clipping, protect modes,
loudspeaker opens and shorts, and other conditions. These text files can
be saved for future reference or downloaded remotely via modem.
When any event occurs, System Manager automatically notifies you with
a flashing icon.

Custom Applications
Operate QSControl with System Manager, our standard control application
included with QSControl Software, or create a custom application to meet
your specific needs. Using standard Windows tools such as ActiveX , COM,
and plug-in components for Microsoft Visual Basic, QSControl offers the
most user-friendly and advanced development tools available today.
QSControl’s “open architecture” also allows the control of other
manufacturer’s devices using RS-232, MIDI, Ethernet, or other interfaces
for a single integrated solution using standard development tools such as
Microsoft Visual Basic.
QSControl Spec Sheet 02/05/02

system. Features include
an Event Log for tracking
system changes and status
of amplifiers.

Benefits of a Custom Application
■

Build simple control screens that can perform complex functions.

■

Create a full range of system-wide presets that are available for
different operating modes in multipurpose venues.

■

Perform pre-programmed functions at designated times—without an
operator present. For example, perform basic diagnostic checks at
night, log the results, and power the system down.

■

Control non-QSC equipment via Ethernet, MIDI, contact closures,
RS-232 or other interfaces for a single integrated solution.

■

Automate performance monitoring and maintenance. For example,
alert the operator whenever a loudspeaker circuit becomes open or
shorted, mute the power amplifier, and log an error message for
maintenance personnel.

■

Provide a comprehensive set of fire and emergency mode functions
that are invoked by an external contact closure or other simple signal.

■

Employ full, multi-level password security, allowing only authorized
personnel access to certain control functions.



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