WO2015069769A2 - Procédé et système d'essai de connecteur sxlr-p - Google Patents

Procédé et système d'essai de connecteur sxlr-p Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015069769A2
WO2015069769A2 PCT/US2014/064132 US2014064132W WO2015069769A2 WO 2015069769 A2 WO2015069769 A2 WO 2015069769A2 US 2014064132 W US2014064132 W US 2014064132W WO 2015069769 A2 WO2015069769 A2 WO 2015069769A2
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
signal
contact
ground
connector
switch
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PCT/US2014/064132
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English (en)
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WO2015069769A3 (fr
Inventor
Howard H. Roberts
James Allen ANDREWS
Chris D. ECKHOFF
Randal A. Lee
Original Assignee
Roberts Howard H
Andrews James Allen
Eckhoff Chris D
Lee Randal A
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Priority claimed from PCT/US2014/061216 external-priority patent/WO2015065736A1/fr
Application filed by Roberts Howard H, Andrews James Allen, Eckhoff Chris D, Lee Randal A filed Critical Roberts Howard H
Publication of WO2015069769A2 publication Critical patent/WO2015069769A2/fr
Publication of WO2015069769A3 publication Critical patent/WO2015069769A3/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/66—Structural association with built-in electrical component
    • H01R13/70—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch
    • H01R13/703—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch operated by engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. dual-continuity coupling part
    • H01R13/7031—Shorting, shunting or bussing of different terminals interrupted or effected on engagement of coupling part, e.g. for ESD protection, line continuity

Definitions

  • the present disclosure generally relates to connectors, such as for audio connections, and more particularly relates to connectors for analog connections for real-time testing and monitoring as the system is assembled and while it is in operation.
  • the typical connector has provided an instantaneous physical and electrical make or break of connection between devices when the connector is physically connected or disconnected, respectively, to a corresponding mate connector. This instantaneous make or break of connection of physical and electrical connection creates transient noise, spikes, or bursts of signal.
  • Phantom power in the context of professional audio equipment, is a method for transmitting DC electric power through microphone cables to operate microphones that contain active electronic circuitry. It is best known as a convenient power source for condenser microphones, though many active direct boxes also use it. The technique is also used in other applications where power supply and signal communication take place over the same wires.
  • Phantom power supplies are often built into mixing desks, microphone preamplifiers and similar equipment.
  • traditional condenser microphones also use phantom power for polarizing the microphone's transducer element.
  • Three variants of phantom power, called P12, P24 and P48, are defined in the international standard IEC 61938. With phantom powering in accordance with IEC 61938, the dc current is divided, one half being fed to the microphone through each of the two signal conductors and returning to the dc voltage source via the cable shield.
  • Hot-switching Connecting or disconnecting a phantom powered microphone while phantom power is turned on is commonly referred to as "hot-switching" the microphone. Hot-switching can occur at the interface between the microphone and a cable or between any two components in the signal path. For example between a cable and a mixing console that is the source of the phantom power. When hot-switching occurs, there is usually a very loud popping sound resulting from a voltage transient that impinges upon the input to the pre-amplifier input.
  • Fig. 1 shows the electrical waveforms associated with a conventional XLR hot- switching event during connection. Phantom power is on and a common mode event occurs as the phantom power supply voltage drops as DC bias current begins to flow to the attached phantom powered device. These waveforms show events that occur over many seconds.
  • Fig. 2 shows the electrical waveforms associated with a conventional XLR hot- switching event during connection. Phantom power is on and very short transient noise events occur as currents begin to flow through multiple circuit paths. These include the dissipation of stored electrical and magnetic energies and the change in the DC bias current associated with phantom power. These waveforms show events lasting tens of microseconds and represent frequencies that extend into the MHz range.
  • Fig. 3 shows differential noise during a hot-switching connect event of a conventional XLR.
  • Fig. 4 shows a waveform on channel 2 of the conventional XLR that has features of both long duration common mode noise and short duration transient noise that occurs during hot-switching while phantom power is on.
  • a real-time testing and monitoring system would allow a single person to detect a problem with a connection as soon as it occurred. As most professional audio installations are complex with hundred and sometimes thousands of connection points, such a real-time test and monitoring system would have time and financial benefits to owners, operators, and users of these systems.
  • TTD time to detection
  • TTR time to repair
  • connection problems There are two basic time periods when the connection problems typically occur. The first is when the system is being assembled or during what is commonly referred to as "setup.” For a system that is completely configured with SXLR female connectors, a problem connection would be indicated immediately when a faulty connection is made. The person making the connection would be alerted and the connection would either be adjusted or the defective component replaced. Normally, the problem would go undetected until the system is fully assembled and undergoing complete system check. This means that the connection problem could be one of any along the chain of connection for that particular channel. This unnecessary complication can be avoided by the system and method described herein.
  • the second time period is after the system passes complete system check. During this period, the system is either waiting to be used or is in use. There are many contributors to failure of connections during this period of time. Personnel continue to move around the cabling and equipment. This activity can sometime have the unintended consequence of breaking a connection. Additionally, during use, connections can be intentionally changed or modified. An example would be at a live performance venue where multiple acts are performing. Often, the equipment and connections are changed to accommodate the different requirements of the multiple performing acts. Unless the connections are being continuously monitored, the failure condition will not be detected until the system is in use. This represents the worst time to detect the problem. The system described herein provides a means for immediate detection. This, in turn, provides for the shortest TTR.
  • a modified version of a female XLR audio connector (referred to as "SXLR-P") provides for two shorting mechanisms that occur in succession during connect and disconnect sequences while phantom power is on and current is flowing between the phantom power source and the device consuming the power. When disconnected, all three pins are shorted together. However, the short between the ground pin (pin 1) has an RC filter and series resistant sufficient to suppress voltage transients associate with hot-switching. The short between pins 2 and 3 is low resistance as represented by a wired direct short between the two pins. During either a connect or disconnect sequence, the signal carrying pins, pin 2 and pin 3, are shorted together to mask differential mode noise. Furthermore, during either a connect or disconnect sequence, the ground pin creates a resistive short with pins 2 and 3 so to as shunt the dissipating energies on the signal lines to ground and away from ingress to the pre- amplifier.
  • a test and monitor circuit is connected in series with an SXLR-P configured system.
  • LEDs When phantom power is turned on, LEDs illuminate if there are complete circuits from the source of phantom power to the last component in the chain of connected cables and devices.
  • the electrical circuits are made complete by the shorts on each unconnected female SXLR-P connector in the chain of connected components. Since the output impedance of many source components (microphones, direct-boxes, etc) are low impedance, these terminating devices also appear as shorts to the test circuit.
  • the LEDs indicate where there is a faulty connection and the round-trip circuits are broken. These conditions are immediately detected by the monitoring system and corrective action can be taken. The system can identify the exact location of the source during assembly and the exact channel after assembly and during use.
  • An embodiment of the invention is An electrical connector for connecting to ground and first and second signal lines.
  • the connector includes a ground contact for connecting to ground, a first signal contact for connecting to the first signal line, a second signal contact for connecting to the second signal line, a first switch connected to the first signal contact and the ground contact, the first switch is biased to “on” to electrically connect the first signal contact to the second signal contact until after (i) the first signal contact is connected to the first signal line, (ii) the ground contact is connected to the ground, and (iii) the second signal contact is connected to the second signal line, and a second switch connected to the second signal contact and the ground contact, the second switch is biased to "on” to electrically connect the second signal contact to the ground contact until after the first switch is triggered to "off to electrically disconnect the first signal contact to the second signal contact.
  • the first switch during connection of the connector to ground and first and second signal lines, is thereby automatically triggered to "off during connection of the connector, to electrically disconnect the first signal contact from the second signal contact during connecting of the first signal contact to the first signal line, the ground contact to the ground, and the second signal contact to the second signal line.
  • the second switch after the first switch is triggered to "off, during further connection of the connector to ground and first and second signal lines, is thereby automatically triggered to "off during connection of the connector, to electrically disconnect the second signal contact from the ground contact.
  • Another embodiment of the invention is a circuit of an electrical connector.
  • the connector includes a ground contact for connecting to ground, a first signal contact for connecting to a first signal line, a second signal contact for connecting to a second signal line, a first switch connected to the first signal contact and the second signal contact, operative to electrically disconnect the first signal contact and the second signal contact after the ground contact is connected to the ground, the first signal contact is connected to the first signal line, and the second signal contact is connected to the second signal line, and operative to electrically connect the first signal contact and the second signal contact as the first signal contact is being disengaged from the first signal line but while, at least momentarily, the first signal contact continues to remain connected to the first signal line, and a second switch connected to the second signal contact and the ground contact, operative to electrically disconnect the second signal contact and the ground contact after the first switch electrically disconnects the first signal contact and the second signal contact, and operative to electrically connect the second signal contact and the ground contact after the ground contact is connected to the ground, the first signal contact is connected to the first signal line, and the second signal contact is connected to the
  • Yet another embodiment of the invention is a method of connecting a connector having a ground contact, a first signal contact and a second signal contact, to a ground, a first signal line and a second signal line, respectively.
  • the method includes connecting, substantially concurrently, the ground contact to the ground, the first signal contact to the first signal line, and the second signal contact to the second signal line, first disengaging a first conductor electrically connected to the first signal contact and the second signal contact from electrical connection to the second signal contact, after the step of connecting, and second disengaging a second conductor electrically connected to the second signal contact and the ground contact from electrical connection to the ground contact, after the step of first disengaging.
  • Another embodiment of the invention is a method of disconnecting a connector having a ground contact, a first signal contact and a second signal contact, from connection to a ground, a first signal line and a second signal line, respectively.
  • the method includes first engaging a first conductor connected to the second signal contact to electrically connect the second signal contact and the ground signal contact, second engaging a second conductor connected to the first signal contact to electrically connect the first signal contact and the second signal contact, and disconnecting, substantially concurrently after the step of engaging, the ground contact from the ground, the first signal contact from the first signal line, and the second signal contact from the second signal line.
  • Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for testing integrity of connectivity of a series-connected chain of audio circuitry.
  • the system includes a power source of two differential signal connectors and one ground signal connector, a tester includes two male differential signal connectors respectively connected to the two differential signal connectors of the power source and one male ground connector connected to the one ground signal connector of the power source, two female differential signal connectors and one female ground connector, one of the male differential signal connectors is connected to one of the female differential signal connectors, the male ground connector is connected to the female ground connector, and an LED is connected to the other of the female differential signal connectors and female ground connector, and a terminating connector of the series- connected chain is connected to the two female differential signal connectors and the one female ground connector of the tester, and shorts between the two differential signal connectors and shorts between one of the differential signal connectors and the ground connector.
  • Another embodiment of the invention is a circuit for testing a series-connected chain of audio circuitry, a power source provides a first differential signal, a second differential signal and a ground.
  • the circuit includes a first male differential signal source connector connected to the first differential signal of the power source, a second male differential signal source connector connected to the second differential signal of the power source, a male ground connector connected to the ground of the power source, a first female differential signal connector connected to the first male differential signal source connector, a second female differential signal connector connected to the second male differential signal source connector, a female ground connector connected to the male ground connector, a first relay connected to the first female differential signal connector and the second female differential signal connector biased to open to electrically disconnect the first differential signal and the second differential signal, a second relay connected to the first female differential signal connector and the ground female connector biased to electrically connect the first female differential signal and the ground, a third relay connected to the second female differential signal connector and the ground female connector biased to electrically connect the second female differential signal and the ground, a first LED connected to the ground and,
  • Yet another embodiment of the invention is a method of manufacture of a connector, the connector having a ground contact, a first differential signal contact and a second differential signal contact.
  • the method includes forming a first switch in the first signal contact, the first switch including a first conductor biased to electrically connect the first differential signal contact to the second differential signal contact, forming a second switch in the second differential signal contact, the second switch including a second conductor biased to electrically connect the second differential signal contact the ground contact, providing the first switch with a first actuator operative to disconnect the first conductor from electrically connecting the first differential signal contract and the second differential signal contact, and providing the second switch with a second actuator operative to disconnect the second conductor from electrically connecting the second differential signal contact and the ground contact.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a graph of common mode voltage (CMV) noise waveforms encountered with a conventional XLR connect of a phantom power device with phantom power "On";
  • CMV common mode voltage
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a graph of transient noise waveforms encountered with a conventional XLR connect of a phantom power device with phantom power "On";
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a graph of differential noise waveforms encountered with a conventional XLR connect of a phantom power device with phantom power "On";
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a graph of transient and CMV noise waveforms encountered with a conventional XLR connect of a phantom power device with phantom power "On";
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an XLR-type connector (SXLR-P) according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective, partial cutaway view of internal elements of an SXLR- P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 7 illustrates sequence of electrical shorts in mating of an SXLR-P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 8 illustrates a filter of an SXLR-P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 9 illustrates location of a filter of an SXLR-P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Fig. 10 illustrates a circuit of an SXLR-P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Fig. 11 illustrates a circuit of a filter of an SXLR-P connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 12 illustrates a circuit state of an SXLR-P connector with shorting of Pins 2 and 3 of the connector when phantom power is present, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 13 illustrates graphs of electrical noise encountered for an SXLR-P connector on hot-switching Pin 1 to Pins 2 and 3 when phantom power is present, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 14 illustrates a graph of electrical noise encountered for an SXLR-P connector on disconnect from a mating connector, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 15 illustrates graphs of electrical noise encountered for an SXLR-P connector with filter (i.e., effects of R4) on hot-switching transient, according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 16 illustrates an example audio mixing console and inputs to the console
  • Fig. 17 illustrates an example audio snake
  • Fig. 18 illustrates an example of a typical audio hardware setup as may be employed for live performance sound control
  • Fig. 19 illustrates a block diagram of an SXLR active circuit tester (@Source) according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 20 illustrates a circuit implementation of an SXLR active circuit tester (@Source) according to certain embodiments of the invention
  • Fig. 21 illustrates a block diagram of an SXLR-P active circuit tester (@Source) according to certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Fig. 22 illustrates a circuit implementation of an SXLR-P active circuit tester (@Source) according to certain embodiments of the invention.
  • CMRR complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor
  • audio band-width Suppressing noise associated with connect and disconnect events of XLR components, CMRR of the pre-amplifier and the band-with of the audio circuit are important factors in determining which noises can be heard and which cannot.
  • noise events When noise events are common mode in nature, they may be suppressed by the CMRR characteristics of the pre-amplifier. However, if power from such events is transmitted at high enough frequencies, then the CMRR of the pre-amp may not be sufficient to suppress and block these energies.
  • a transient riding on a DC offset simply compounds this problem and reduces a system's headroom. When translated back into an analog signal, this would be heard as a very unpleasant popping sound. As such, even though the frequencies in the noise are above human perception, their associated power level causes the processor to convert the noise into an audible signal.
  • the magnitude of the hot-switch problem is proportional to the DC bias current of the phantom powered device and inversely proportional to the quality of the CMRR specification of the pre-amplifier.
  • a modified version of a female XLR audio connector (sometimes referred to as "SXLR-P", where the "P” is intended to stand for "phantom” power) provides for two shorting mechanisms that occur in succession during connect and disconnect sequences while phantom power is on and current is flowing between the phantom power source and the device consuming the power. When disconnected, all three pins are shorted together. During either a connect or disconnect sequence, the signal carrying pins, pin 2 and pin 3, are shorted together to mask differential mode noise.
  • the ground pin creates a resistive short with pins 2 and 3 so to as shunt the dissipating energies on the signal lines to ground and away from ingress to the pre-amplifier.
  • the short between the ground pin (pin 1) may, in certain embodiments, have an RC filter and series resistant (see Figs. 8 and 9) sufficient to suppress voltage transients associated with hot-switching.
  • the short between pins 2 and 3 is low resistance as represented by a wired direct short between the two pins.
  • the SXLR-P is a variant of the SXLR contemplated in certain of the related patent applications and introduces a second short that may include filtering between the signal pins (once shorted) and the ground pin.
  • the second short serves as a shunt for the DC bias current when it has been interrupted by the disconnect event.
  • a filtering network imbedded in the SXLR-P connector can adjust the time rate of change profile.
  • the existing short between pin 1 and the shorted signal pins acts as a buffer. Since there is a resistive short, current is already flowing and the change from disconnected to connected is lesser in magnitude. Furthermore, a filtering network imbedded in the SXLR-P connector can adjust the time rate of change profile. The design is such that the electrical circuit associated with filtering network is not part of operational audio chain. This means that the filter network is disconnected when pin 1 is inserted into the female connector.
  • a connector 500 (sometimes referred to as the "SXLR- P") is connected to a mating connector (e.g., male).
  • the mating connector provides poles or contacts for at least ground (G), and two opposing or differential signals (D+ and D-).
  • An example of the mating connector is an analog input driver circuit or device, for example, a mixer, audio processor, amplifier, pre-amp, microphone or similar device.
  • the connector 500 includes a first contact 502 (connected to ground), a second contact 504 (connected to one output pole of the mating connector), and a third contact 506 (connected to the other output pole of the mating connector).
  • the connector 500 also includes a first switch 508 and a second switch 510.
  • the first switch 508 connects the second contact 504 and the third contact 506.
  • An example of the switch is a single pole, single throw (SPST or "two way") switch that is positioned either “on” or “off.
  • SPST single pole, single throw
  • connection between the second contact 504 and the third contact 506 is completed (or “closed") by the switch 508, and when the switch 508 is "off, connection between the second contact 504 and the third contact 506 is disconnected (or “opened") by the switch 508.
  • the switch 508 in "closed” position shorts contacts 504, 506 to the device but the switch 508 in "open” position allows the device to connect to ground only by one contact 502 and the other two contacts 504, 506 are capable of connecting to the opposing poles or signals (D+/D-) of the mating connector (assuming, of course, completion of the circuit via an input device connected to or incorporating the three contacts 502, 504, 506 of the connector 500).
  • the second switch 510 connects the third contact 506 and the first contact 502.
  • An example of the switch is a single pole, single throw (SPST or "two way") switch that is positioned either “on” or “off. As will be understood, for this example of the switch 510, when the switch 510 is “on”, connection between the third contact 506 and the first contact 502 is completed (or “closed") by the switch 510, and when the switch 510 is “off, connection between the third contact 506 and the first contact 502 is disconnected (or “opened") by the switch 510.
  • SPST single pole, single throw
  • the switch 510 in "closed” position shorts contacts 506, 502 to the device but the switch 510 in "open” position allows the device to connect to ground only by one contact 502 and the other two contacts 504, 506 are capable of connecting to the opposing poles or signals (D+/D-) of the mating connector (assuming, of course, completion of the circuit via an input device connected to or incorporating the three contacts 502, 504, 506 of the connector 500).
  • the first switch 508 and second switch 510 are biased to closed position when the connector 500 (for example, a female connector) is not connected to a corresponding mated connector (for example, a male connector) of another device or cable (not shown in Fig. 1).
  • the physical connecting operation initially causes the mated connector, via pins or the like of the mated connector, to contact with the respective contacts 1302, 1304, 1306 of the connector 1300, thereby "making" connection.
  • this contact physically "makes” the connection, the electrical connection is not actually made until the connecting operation is continued and the connector 500 mated sufficiently with the mated connector.
  • the switch 508 of the connector 500 Upon sufficient mating in the connecting operation, the switch 508 of the connector 500 is first automatically “opened” at that point by the physical mating operation, and then as physical mating operation is continued, the switch 510 of the connector 500 is next automatically “opened” by the physical mating operation.
  • the first and second switches 508, 510 are staggered along the mating path of the contacts 504, 506 and 506, 502, such that only after sufficient mating to trigger both the first switch 508 and second switch 510 to "opened", is electrical connection between the connector 1308 and the mating connector established.
  • the delayed electrical connection between the connector 1308 and the mating connector reduces or substantially eliminates any noise transient during connection operations between connectors/devices, because the switch 508 transitions to open state only after contact has initially been made between the respective contacts 502, 504, 506 of the connector 500 and pins of the mated connector and the switch 510 transitions to open state only after contact and switching of the switch 508 to open state.
  • the switch 510 of the connector 500 when disconnecting the electrical connection from the mating connector, the switch 510 of the connector 500 is immediately triggered to its closed state through initial commencement of physical dislodgement of the connector 500 from the mated connector and, thereafter, the switch 508 of the connector 500 is quickly triggered to its closed state through further physical dislodgement of the connector 500 from the mated connector.
  • the respective contacts 502, 504, 506 of the connector 500 remain in contact with the pins of the mated connector; however, the first switch 510, once triggered to its closed state on initial physical dislodgment action, electrically disconnects the contacts 506, 502 and pins of the mated connector and the second switch 508, thereafter during continued physical dislodgment action, electrically disconnects contacts 504, 506 and pins of the mated connector.
  • the switches 508, 510 then remain closed as the physical disconnection operation proceeds through termination of contact between the contacts 502, 504, 506 of the connector 500 and pins of the mated connector by physical disengagement of the connector 500 and the mated connector.
  • the switch 510 is closed by initial dislodgement action of the connector 500 from the mated connector, followed by close of the switch 508 by further dislodgement action of the connector 500 from the mated connector, noise transient is reduced or substantially eliminated during disconnection operations between source and receiver.
  • the staggered first switch 508 and second switch 510 remain in shorted (i.e., closed) position until contact is made by the male connector during insertion/plug-in.
  • the male connector first contacts the first switch 508 during plug-in.
  • a pin of the male connector pin 2 triggers the first switch 508 to "off (i.e., open) position and the short is discontinued of contacts 504, 506.
  • the male connector during further plug-in next contacts the second switch 510 after triggering to "off the first switch 508.
  • pin 1 As the male connector is continued in the plug-in process, another pin of the male connector (pin 1) triggers the second switch 510 to "off (i.e., open) position and the short is terminated for contacts 506, 502.
  • the two shorting events can be sequenced and controlled during both insertion and retraction of the male connector (XLR).
  • an embodiment of an SXLR-P connector (such as that of Figs. 5-
  • 7) further includes a component 802 allowing the first switch 508 (i.e., ground switch) to be exposed in the soldering area (the area where wires are attached and other electrical connections are made to the female contacts).
  • the first switch 508 i.e., ground switch
  • an embodiment of an SXLR-P connector such as that of Fig. 8 includes one possible placement option for the filter network 902.
  • Fig. 10 shows one possible schematic for an SXLR-P implementation.
  • Fig. 11 shows one possible filter implementation for an SXLR-P design.
  • Fig. 12 shows the results of testing the short between the signal pins when phantom power is present.
  • the test resulted in no audible switching sounds and no detectable waveform using an oscilloscope connected to pins 2 and 3. This test proves that this switch is silent even when phantom power is on and DC bias current is flowing.
  • Fig. 13 shows the results of testing the short between the ground pins and signal pins (that are shorted) when phantom power is present.
  • the test resulted in some very minor noise when R4 of the filter network was either a dead short (near 0 Ohms) or near 10K Ohms.
  • R4 was set near the 3.4K +/- IK Ohm, the switching noise was almost inaudible event at very loud levels of amplification. This test proves that this switch is silent even when phantom power is on and DC bias current is flowing.
  • Fig. 14 is a test of a full disconnect sequence between a male XLR and a female SXLR-P while both shorts are present (all three female SXLR-P pins are shorted together). The result is a clean, common mode only increase in voltage on the signal pins as phantom power is unloaded from the attached device and returns to the level loaded by R4 in the SXRL-P filter network. No audible noise was heard during this test. This test proves that the SXLR-P can be effective in suppressing hot-switching noise when phantom power is present and DC bias current is flowing to the attached device.
  • Fig. 15 shows the effect of the R4 (see Figure 11) on very short duration transient noise during hot-switching.
  • Experimental results show that the performance of hot-switch transient suppression can be tuned by adjusting the component values of the filter network.
  • R4 is being varied. The best performance was obtained when R4 had values near the parallel resistance of the phantom power resistors or 3.4K Ohms.
  • the waveforms show common mode noise on pins 2 and 3.
  • the probes are AC coupled.
  • the switch of the connector is activated by a push rod type switch.
  • switch contacts can be located at an opposing end of the SXLR-P connector capsule from that of the switch shown in the embodiment of Fig. 6.
  • Other alternatives are also possible according to application and circumstances. For example, a short between a signal pin and a ground pin connected to an amplifier output of low output impedance may be damaging to the amplifier in some instances. Resistance of the short in the connector may be increased in such instance to limit current load on the amplifier output when shorted in connection and disconnection of the connector, such as by a series of resistors of the connector or otherwise.
  • Yet another approach to controlled switching by the connector in the embodiment is, or may include, use of phantom power, when available, for controlling the connector to switch electronically.
  • switch when phantom power is detected by the switch of the connector, switch may be from short to open and, when phantom power is not so detected, switch may be from open to short.
  • Fig. 16 shows a typical audio mixer and the connections on the rear panel. Audio mixers come in a wide range of sizes and features. The point of this drawing is to show that there is a plurality of connections. Each connection point is an opportunity for a failure in the signal path. Most XLR and TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) type connections each represent three individual opportunities for failure: two differential signal connections and one ground connection. Fig. 17 shows a commonly used method of connecting the control audio console with the remote location such as a performance stage. The device is commonly referred to as a "snake" and has many audio connections. Snakes typically have incremental channel sizes such as 8, 16, 24, 32, 48, and so on. Each of these has a connection at both ends of the snake. A 48 channel snake represents 96 possible connection failures. Since each connection has three points of potential signal failure, a 48 channel snake represents a total of 288 potential points of signal failure.
  • Fig. 18 shows how a mixing console and snake interface with a stage area.
  • connections may include, but are not limited to, individual cables, additional mixing consoles, signal duplicating snakes commonly referred to as "splitter snakes," and many other devices, controls, instruments, amplifiers, and so on.
  • the number of potential failure points can be well over a thousand. Managing and monitoring these connections can sometimes overwhelm the technical support and operating staff.
  • Fig. 19 shows a block diagram of a passive test mode at the source of the signal path.
  • the source is considered to be the mixer where phantom power is provided.
  • the passive tester can be a single device inserted into the signal path of a single channel or multiple XLR devices as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/964,821 and International (PCT) Application No. PCT/US2014/061216, inserted into a plurality of channels. This diagram is included for reference to the version of a system implemented using SXLR-P connectors (Fig. 21).
  • Fig. 20 shows one example of how the block diagram in Fig. 19 can be implemented.
  • Other implementations are contemplated.
  • LEDs for both pin 2 and pin 3.
  • these alternative XLR connectors can also include the ground circuit in the test circuit path. This schematic is included for reference to the version of a system implemented using SXLR-P connectors (Fig. 22).
  • Fig. 21 shows a block diagram of an active test mode at the source of the signal path.
  • the source is considered to be the interface of the mixer.
  • the active tester can be a single device inserted into the signal path of a single channel or multiple devices inserted into a plurality of channels.
  • Fig. 22 shows one possible example of how the block diagram in Fig. 21 can be implemented in a circuit.
  • Other circuit implementations are contemplated.
  • the switch (relay) configuration shown based on commercially available components.
  • persons skilled in the art would be able to easily define a test engine that could include more active test circuits and could full test and characterize, individually and independently, of both signal lines and the ground.
  • phantom power is replaced by a secondary and external source of power.
  • This mode is referred to as "active mode.”
  • An advantage of this embodiment is that the test and monitoring circuits can consume more power than can be provided by phantom power and therefore are not limited in terms of test complexity, features, and sensitivity.
  • the test circuit could include an audible test signal that can be exploited for additional uses such as testing and setting a secondary mix such as stage monitors.
  • a further benefit of an external power source would be to provide a more brightly lit panel that could be monitored from a distance and used as a source of diagnostic information for all technical and support staff. This would relieve a single person from having to monitor and relay the information to other members of the crew.
  • test and monitoring system is integrated with a software system that allows the status of the system to be shared as data across a computer network. This has advantage of access to the status anywhere and anytime. System status can be displayed on a virtual software monitor for multiple persons in multiple locations. This would include display on mobile and hand-held devices.
  • test and monitoring system is integrated into the female end of an SXLR connector. This has advantage of allowing the person making the electrical connection to observe the test results at the source and in real-time. This would result in both minimum TTD and TTR.
  • the SXLR-P device provides extended support for test and monitoring beyond what is provided by an XLR connector having a single switch.
  • the SXLR-P has a second short between the shorted pair of pins 2 and 3 and ground. This effectively shorts all three pins together at any female XLR that has the SXLR-P components integrated into it. This second short with ground provides a means to test and monitor ground connectivity as well as that for the signal lines associated with pins 2 and 3.
  • the embodiments described apply to any environment where electrical or optical connections are made between equipment, instruments, controls, processors and connectors, adapters, couplers, and cables.
  • the applications include both permanently installed and temporary or mobile installations.
  • An example of a permanently installed application is a recording studio or studio.
  • An example of a temporary application would be a live sound reinforcement system that travels with a touring live performance act.
  • the application applies to, but is not limited to, environments where audio control is required for amplification, mixing, and routing.

Landscapes

  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
  • Testing Of Short-Circuits, Discontinuities, Leakage, Or Incorrect Line Connections (AREA)

Abstract

Un connecteur électrique permettant une connexion à la masse et à des lignes de premier et second signaux différentiels comprend un contact avec la masse, un contact avec le premier signal et un contact avec le second signal. Un premier commutateur est connecté au contact avec le premier signal et au contact avec la masse. Le premier commutateur est sollicité vers l'état « actif » de façon à connecter électriquement le contact avec le premier signal et le contact avec le second signal jusqu'à ce qu'un connecteur correspondant soit branché de façon à connecter le contact avec le premier signal à la ligne du premier signal, le contact avec la masse à la masse et le contact avec le second signal à la ligne du second signal. Un second commutateur est connecté au contact avec le second signal et au contact avec la masse. Le second commutateur est sollicité vers l'état « actif » de façon à connecter électriquement le contact avec le second signal et le contact avec la masse jusqu'à ce que le premier commutateur ait été sollicité vers l'état « inactif ». Le premier commutateur est automatiquement sollicité vers l'état « inactif » pendant une connexion du connecteur de façon à déconnecter électriquement le contact avec le premier signal du contact avec le second signal. Une fois le premier commutateur sollicité vers l'état « inactif » pendant une connexion du connecteur, le second commutateur est automatiquement sollicité vers l'état « inactif » de façon à déconnecter électriquement le contact avec le second signal du contact avec la masse.
PCT/US2014/064132 2013-11-05 2014-11-05 Procédé et système d'essai de connecteur sxlr-p WO2015069769A2 (fr)

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US201361900165P 2013-11-05 2013-11-05
US201361900159P 2013-11-05 2013-11-05
US61/900,159 2013-11-05
US61/900,165 2013-11-05
PCT/US2014/061216 WO2015065736A1 (fr) 2013-10-17 2014-10-17 Système et procédé de test et de surveillance de connecteurs
USPCT/US2014/061216 2014-10-17

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4002606A1 (fr) * 2020-11-19 2022-05-25 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik GmbH & Co. KG Connecteur enfichable électrique, connecteur enfichable et système de transmission des données

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5484298A (en) * 1994-02-08 1996-01-16 Sony Corporation Self-terminating XLR connector device
WO2007084125A1 (fr) * 2006-01-17 2007-07-26 Jeffery H Purchon Jeffery Connecteur audio a accouplement automatique
US8573992B2 (en) * 2011-01-11 2013-11-05 Little Engine Labs, Llc Connector system and method

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4002606A1 (fr) * 2020-11-19 2022-05-25 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik GmbH & Co. KG Connecteur enfichable électrique, connecteur enfichable et système de transmission des données
WO2022106553A1 (fr) 2020-11-19 2022-05-27 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Connexion électrique enfichable, connecteur électrique et système de transmission de données

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