ARC-15 Manual

RA DIO CON S OLE P RODUCTS
ARC-15
Broadcast Console
family
Technical Manual
September 20, 2018
ARRAKIS
a d va n c e d r a d io
1.0
IN TRODUCTION
Thank you from Arrakis Systems inc.

Thank you for purchasing this product by Arrakis Systems inc. Our company has provided professional audio
equipment to the broadcast, commercial audio, and consumer audio markets for more than 20 years. Our prod-
ucts are sold worldwide and are well known for leading edge technology, quality, and reliability.
Telephone Support for the ‘Free’ APEX-Live software

APEX-Live software for the ARC console is provided at no charge and does not include the cost of telephone support.
The software is specifically designed to be easy to use for people with average PC computer and radio industry
experience. Support is limited to the product manual and the on screen help system in the software itself. Refer to
the Arrakis website at www.arrakis-systems.com for updated training materials. In a case where telephone support
is a necessity, Arrakis has per minute and per incident support available that can be paid for by valid credit card. For
comprehensive support and advanced automation features, please consider one of our automation product. Refer to
the website or contact the factory for details.
How to contact Arrakis Systems
Arrakis Systems inc. is located at Arrakis Systems inc

6604 Powell Street
Loveland, Colorado
80538
Business Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm mountain time
Contact: Voice: 970-461-0730

Fax: 970-663-1010
email: consolesupport@arrakis-systems.com
web: arrakis-systems.com
Having difficulty contacting Arrakis?

Refer to the website (www.arrakis-systems.com) ARRAKIS
for current contact information
1.1
S A FETY
Safety Instructions
1. Read All Instructions. All safety and operating the type of power supplied to your facility, 16. A Product and Cart Combination should be
instructions must be read before operating the consult your local power company. moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force,
product. 10. Grounding and Polarization. This product is and uneven surfaces may cause the product and
2. Retain All Instructions. All safety and equipped with a polarized AC plug with integral the cart combination to overturn.
operating instructions must be retained for safety ground pin. Do not defeat the safety 17. Servicing. Refer all servicing to qualified
future reference. ground in any manner. servicing personnel.
3. Heed All Warnings. All warnings on the 11. Power Cord Protection. Power supply cords 18. Damage Requiring Service. Unplug this
product and those listed in the operating must be routed so that they are not likely to be product from the wall AC outlet and refer
instructions must be adhered to. walked on nor pinched by items placed upon servicing to qualified service personnel under
4. Follow All Instructions. All operating and or against them. Pay particular attention to the the following conditions:
product usage instructions must be followed. cords at AC wall plugs and convenience a. When the AC cord or plug is damaged.
5. Heat. This product must be situated away from receptacles, and at the point where the cord b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have
any heat sources such as radiators, heat plugs into the product. fallen into the product.
registers, stoves, or other products (including 12. Lightning. For added protection for this c. If the product has been exposed to rain or
power amplifiers) that produce heat. product during a lightning storm, or when it is water.
6. Ventilation. Slots and openings in the product left unattended and unused for long periods of d. If the product does not operate normally
are provided for ventilation. They ensure reliable time, unplug it from the AC wall outlet. This will (following operating instructions).
operation of the product, keeping it from prevent damage to the product due to e. If the product has been dropped or
overheating. These openings must not be lightning and power line surges. damaged in any way.
blocked nor covered during operation. This 13. Overloading. Do not overload AC wall outlets, f. When the product exhibits a distinct change
product should not be placed into a rack unless extension cords, or integral convenience outlets in performance. This indicates a need for
proper ventilation is provided through as this can result in a fire or electric shock hazard. service.
following the manufacturer’s recommended 14. Object and Liquid Entry. Never push objects 19. Replacement Parts. When replacement parts
installation procedures. of any kind into this product through openings are required, be sure the service technician has
7. Water and Moisture. Do not use this product as they may touch dangerous voltage points used replacement parts specified by the
near water—for example; near a bath tub, wash or short-out parts that could result in a fire or manufacturer or that have the same
bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub; in a wet electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on characteristics as the original parts. Unauthorized
basement; or near a swimming pool or the like. the product. substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or
8. Attachments. Do not use any attachments not 15. Accessories. Do not place this product on an other hazards.
recommended by the product manufacturer unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The 20. Safety Check. Upon completion of any repairs
as they may cause hazards. product may fall, causing serious damage to a to this product, ask the service technician to
9. Power Sources. This product must be child or adult, and serious damage to the perform safety checks to determine that the
operated from the type of power source product. Any mounting of the product needs product is in proper operating condition.
indicated on the marking label and in the to follow manufacturer’s installation 21. Cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
installation instructions. If you are not sure of instructions. cleaners. Use only a damp cloth for cleaning.
ARRAKIS
1.2
S A FETY
Hazard / Warning Label

Identification
C AU T I O N
RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD - DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT

REMOVE ANY COVER OR PANEL. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT EXPOSE THE CONSOLE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The Exclamation Point symbol, within an equilateral

triangle, alerts the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
product literature and instruction manuals.
The Lightning Flash With Arrowhead symbol, within an

equilateral triangle, alerts the user to the presence of
uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock.
WARNING —This equipment generates, uses and can

radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions in this manual it may cause
interference to radio communications. It has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device
(pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 FCC Rules), which are designed
to provide reasonable protection against such interference when
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equip-ment
in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which
case the user, at his own expense, will be required to take what-ever
measures may be required to correct the interference.
ARRAKIS
1.3
W A RRA N TY
Warranty
This console carries a manufacturer‘s warranty subject to the following guidelines and limitations:
A) Except as expressly excluded herein, Arrakis Systems inc. (“Seller”) warrants equipment of its own man-
ufacture against faulty workmanship or the use of defective materials for a period of one (1) year from date of
shipment to Buyer. The liability of the Seller under this Warranty is limited to replacing, repairing or issuing cred-
it (at the Seller’s discretion) for any equipment, provided that Seller is promptly notified in writing within five (5)
days upon discovery of such defects by Buyer, and Seller‘s examination of such equipment shall disclose to its
satisfaction that such defects existed at the time shipment was originally made by Seller, and Buyer returns the
defective equipment to Seller’s place of business in Loveland, Colorado, packaging and transportation prepaid,
with return packaging and transport guaranteed.
B) Equipment furnished by Seller, but manufactured by another, shall be warranted only to the extent pro-
vided by the other manufacturer.
C) Thermal filament devices (such as lamps and fuses) are expressly excluded from this warranty.
D) The warranty period on equipment or parts repaired or replaced under warranty shall expire upon the
expiration date of the original warranty.
E) This Warranty is void for equipment which has been subject to abuse, improper installation, improper
operation, improper or omitted maintenance, alteration, accident, negligence (in use, storage, transportation or
handling), operation not in accordance with Seller‘s operation and service instructions, or operation outside of
the environmental conditions specified by Seller.
F) This Warranty is the only warranty made by Seller, and is in lieu of all other warranties, including mer-
chantability and fitness for a particular purpose, whether expressed or implied, except as to title and to the
expressed specifications contained in this manual. Seller’s sole liability for any equipment failure or any breach
of this Warranty is as set forth in subparagraph A) above; Seller shall not be liable or responsible for any busi-
ness loss or interruption, or other consequential damages of any nature whatsoever, resulting from any equip-
ment failure or breach of this warranty.
ARRAKIS
1.4
W A RRA N TY
Software End User License Agreement

This product contains software licensed from Arrakis Systems inc. and possibly from other software companies. Own-
ership of this product constitutes acceptance of this agreement.
1- This product contains intellectual property (i.e. software programs) that are licensed for use by the end user cus-
tomer (hereinafter “End user”).
2- This is not a sale of such intellectual property
3- The End user shall not copy, disassemble, or reverse compile software programs
4- The software programs are provided to the End user “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or
implied, including, but not limited to, warranties of merchantability, and fitness for particular purpose. The entire risk of
the quality and performance of the software program is borne by the End user.
5- Arrakis and its suppliers shall not be held to any liability for any damages suffered or incurred by the end user
(including, but not limited to, general, special, consequential, or incidental damages including damages for loss of busi-
ness profits, business interruption, loss of business information and the like), arising from or in connection with the
delivery, use or performance of the software program.
ARRAKIS
1.5
W A RRA N TY
Table of Contents
Section One Introduction
Section Two Product Description
Section Three Operation Instructions
Section Four Installation Instructions
Section Five APEX-Live for the ARC-15
Section Six Service and Maintenance
Section Seven Bluetooth (optional feature)
ARRAKIS
1.6
P RODUCT DES CRIP TION
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
2.0
Product Description
ARC-15
Advanced Radio Console family
The ARC-15 is a general purpose console that meets the needs for most On Air Radio & Radio Production studio applications. Channel
One is a high performance mic channel while channels 2-5 are selectable as mic or line inputs. Channel 15 is an advanced telephone
interface to an external hybrid for Live callers or an Off-line contest call. Seven stereo line input channels easily handle the other
audio sources, such as CD players, found in most studios. Channel fourteen is selectable as either a Windows PC USB interface or an
unbalanced stereo consumer level input. Windows software for Live On Air, Automation, & Production is provided standard. With 5 mil-
lion operation, LED lighted, switches; long life faders; and electronic switching of all audio signal paths; the ARC-15 is a rugged, reliable,
and versatile console for professional Radio studio applications.
Two stereo Program output mixes (with mono mixdowns) plus Monitor, Headphone, and Cue systems
Fifteen input source channels (plus optional 16 in x 3 out stereo remote select switcher)
Two high performance mic channels with optional 48V phantom power
Seven stereo line channels
Channel 14 is selectable as either a PC computer sound card channel for Play and Record or a consumer stereo input
One telco / phone hybrid input channel for fast Live or Off-line telephone interface (hybrid required)
Real VU meters for Program and Audition buses
Headphone system with stereo amp for 8 ohm (or Hi-Z) headphones
Cue-talkback system with built-in amplifier and speaker
Input channel logic for Remote channel on-off-tally and source start-stop
Provides monitor audio and logic for a Studio /Announce booth
Optional 16 x 3 stereo switcher for remote input select... handles large studio jobs
2.1
Operational features
VU Meters Cue speaker & Volume
Lighted switches
for cueing audio and
5 million operation, REAL VU meters for accurate ballistics
Talkback from a Studio
LED lighted switches tor BOTH the Program & Audition buses
Headphones
follows the
control room
selector switch. The
amp drives Hi-Z & 8
ohm headphones
Control Room
Monitor
Selectable between
an external (air)
input, the Program
bus, and the Audition
bus. The output is
line level for external
powered speakers
1-5 Mic channels Phone channel

For normal on air talent Line channels PC channel
The phone channel works with an
or a Host and Guest talk For CD players, MP3 play- When connected to a Windows PC external hybrid (user supplied)
format. Channel one fea- ers, and other analog (via a USB cable) running Arrakis through both audio and logic con-
tures a ‘Talk’ button to sources. software, the channel On-off button nections. Turn the Cue button on
talk to the ‘Studio moni- will start and stop playback of audio to listen off-line to the caller.
tor’ if a separate talk from the PC. Push the Talk switch to use the
studio is used.
Control room mic to talk off-line
to the caller. To place the caller
on air just select a bus and turn
the channel on.
Studio Monitor Audio Output & Control

The ARC-15 supports a Talk studio through the Logic connector on the rear of the console. The studio monitor audio follows the control
room monitor select switch or may be internally jumper selected to be dedicated to the Program or Audition bus. For flexibility, channel
On-off logic with tally is provided for the five mic channels. Talkback audio is sent to the studio from Mic 1 by pushing the ‘Talk’ switch. An
audio input to the console cue system is used for the studio to talk back to the control room. The ARC-15 fully supports sophisticated
Control Room with Talk Studio applications.
2.2
Key features
The ARC-15 console is designed specifically for On air broadcast, Internet radio, and LED lighted electronic switching
Podcast applications. The 1-5 mic channels support a host and guest talk format. The
phone channel is perfect for a live on air talk segment or Off-line contests. The PC
sound card channel with logic provides easy access to PC audio files for play or
recording. Last, the stereo line channels easily handle the number of other audio
sources (such as CDs, DATS, MDs, MP3s, etc) found in the average modern studio. The
Program bus has both a balanced +4dBu output and an unbalanced (-)10dBu output
plus a mono mixdown of the stereo signal. The ARC-15 is a powerful, flexible, reliable,
and low cost solution for your radio studio needs.
Easy to install
Fully connectorized with XLRs, RCA phono jacks, RJ45s, etc., the ARC-15 is easy to
install with off the shelf cables.
an easy to use Telephone channel
Rugged and reliable
Professional throughout, with multi-million operation LED lighted switches and elec-
tronic audio switching, the ARC-15 is ideal for demanding environments.
1-5 mic channels for Host and Guest in the Control room or Studio
Channels one- five are very high quality mic preamps (with optional 48V phantom
power) for talk applications in the control room itself.
Telephone Channel for Live On Air Talk or Off-line Contests

Channel fifteen is a dedicated telephone channel that easily connects to an external
telephone hybrid. The caller can talk to you through the Cue system while a Talkback
button enables the Control Room mic to talk off-line to the caller. Just select the Air
or Recording bus then turn the channel on. What could be easier?
Built-in PC sound card on Channel14 for Play & Record

The ARC-15 contains a built-in, Windows compatible, USB sound card on Channel 14 for
USB connection to a PC. A serial (or USB with adapter) connection between the con-
sole and PC provides a control logic interface for starting and stopping playback on
the PC. Arrakis APEX-Live software will recognize the ARC-15 console and operate in
the ‘free’ ARC mode to provide ’Live On Air’ features that are ideal for broadcast,
internet, or podcast style radio applications. For the ultimate in Automation, APEX
software (optional) provides complete hard disk based automation features for the Fully connectorized for easy installation
ARC-15.
2.4
Software Features
Included with an ARC series console (with a USB channel) is a free copy of APEX-Live. This software is the ultimate live assist tool for anyone
who wants to put on a dynamic and powerful live show. It includes features that give you unprecedented customization and flexibility. We are
confident that you will love this software.
This software is intended only for Live Assist. This means that it will not be capable of playing unattended such as with an Automation product
like APEX. If you are looking for a full featured automation system that can play unattended, please consider one of our automation product,
such as APEX or New~Wave. Visit our website for more details.
Installation
To download the software, please go to this link here: http://arrakis-systems.com/download.html
This download will contain a full copy of the APEX-Live manual and an install EXE program. Follow the instructions on the website to install. All
files will be installed to the C:DHD folder. To uninstall, simply delete the C:DHD folder.
This software, along with the latest version of the Operations Manual can always be found on our website for download.
Updates
The APEX-Live software and training material will be updated on a regular basis, without notice. Please visit our website to get the latest
updates.
Support
The software is specifically designed to be easy to use for people with average PC computer and radio industry experience.
Support is limited to the product manual and the on screen help system in the software itself. Refer to the Arrakis website at
www.arrakis-systems.com for updated training materials. In a case where telephone support is a necessity, Arrakis has per minute
and per incident support available that can be paid for by valid credit card. For comprehensive support and advanced automation
features, please consider one of our automation product. Refer to the website or contact the factory for details.
Feedback
APEX-Live is an evolving software that will be updated on a regular basis. As such, we greatly appreciate any customer feedback. This may
include reporting issues with the software, or features that you would like to see added. Please visit our website to submit your requests.
To contact one of our support agents, please email:

apexlivesupport@arrakis-systems.com
2.5
Technical features
The ARC-15 console by Arrakis Systems inc. is the culmination of > 25 years of leadership in the design of analog and digital Radio
consoles and > 15 years as the leader in hard disk automation for Radio.
Mechanical
Switch type: momentary, 5 million operation, for all front panel switches
Switch illumination: LED, no incandescent lamps to burn out
Linear Fader type: conductive plastic for highest possible resolution and life, 30,000 cycles
Rotary Fader type: conductive plastic for highest possible resolution and life, 15,000 cycles
Rotary fader attachment: ribbon cable to a plug on the motherboard
PC boards: single motherboard
IC sockets: one IC is surface mounted, all of the rest are socketed for ease of service
VU meters: true VU ballistics
Electronic
Audio switching: electronic switching with CMOS ICs for ultra high performance and reliability (no switches to clean)
Audio level adjust: for the ultimate in audio performance, audio is passed through the linear and rotary faders
Operational amplifiers: NE5532
Mic preamp: SSM2019, high performance IC with 1.5dB noise figure and .01% THD at gain = 100
Phantom power: 48VDC, with optional external power supply
Logic ICs: advanced CMOS logic for high noise immunity
Logic
Muting (On air light): logic level output, Muted = +12VDC, Not-muted = ground, 50mA max current
Requires a custom, relay isolated, interface circuit to drive an on air light
Channel On-off Tally: On & Off switches: momentary, SPST, dry contact closure.
Tally LED: logic level, requires a driver transistor or IC driver
Channel Source control: logic level output, On = +12VDC, Off = ground, 20mA max current
Requires a custom interface for the specific source device
Circuit diagrams: refer to the ARC-15 manual for typical circuit schematics
Back panel for ARC-15
Note: all XLR inputs and outputs feature multi-turn trimpot level adjust RJ45 balanced
audio connectors
2.6
Electronic specifications
SPECIFICATIONS POWER SUPPLY
Stereo Line Input 110vac - 220 VAC,
Freq Response- +(-).5dB 20-20kHz 50-60 hz, autosensing
S/N- -82dB typ, +8dBu in, +8 dBu out Certified: UL, CE, CS, CB
THD- .01% typ, +8dBu in, +8 dBu out External inline module
CMRR- -75dB typ 1kHz 3"W x 5 3/4"L x 1 3/4"D
Max Input- +23dBu, balanced
+17dBu unbalanced PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS
Depth - 15",
Mono Mic Input Height - 6"
Freq Response- +(-).5dB 20-20kHz Width- 33"
EIN- -115dBu typ, -50dBu in, +8 dBu out
THD- .05% typ , -50dBu in, +8 dBu out
CMRR- -60dB typ 1kHz
Impedances
Mic Input- > 2000 ohms
Line Input- > 10000 ohms
Outputs- < 100 ohms
System
Max Output- +23dBu balanced
+17dBu unbalanced
Stereo Separation- -75dB typ 1KHz
Pgm to Aud XTalk- -80dB typ 1KHz
-70dB typ 20kHz
Cue to Pgm XTalk- -90dB typ 1KHz
-75dB typ 20kHz
On Air Light Logic: open collector transister

to ground, 20mA max
2.7
Physical specifications
Depth - 15",
Height - 6"
Width- 33"
Arrakis Systems inc.
ARC-15 Arrakis Systems inc.
Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Advanced
Radio
Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Console
Cue
Talk Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue
Talk to
Caller
Head
Monitor & Headphone phone
Input Select
Air
Pgm
Aud
Arrakis Systems Monitor
Mic Phone
Cue Ch 14 Air Mon PMM Aud Pgm Phone Logic Pgm Left Pgm Rght Phone Ch 15 Phone Ch 14 Ch 13 Ch 12 Ch 11 Ch 10 Ch 9 Ch 8 Mic Ch 5 Mic Ch 4 Ch 7 Ch 6 Ch 5 Ch 4 Ch3 Ch 2 Mic Ch 3 Mic Ch 2 Mic Ch 1
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
Logic DC Power In In In Out AMM Out Out Ground Out Out Out In USB pwr In In In In In Systems
2.8
OP ERA TIN G IN S TRUCTION S
OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
3.0
Quick Start
The ARC-15 console is designed to be very easy to use. The two sets of VU meters follow the Program and Audition buses.
The single input source per channel reduces operator errors by eliminating the accidental selection of a wrong A/B source
input. The phone system is very easy tp use for off line talking to the caller as well as supporting a Live call in show or Off-
line contest call application.
VU Meters Cue speaker & Volume

Lighted switches
for cueing audio and
5 million operation, REAL VU meters for accurate ballistics
Talkback from a Studio
LED lighted switches tor BOTH the Program & Audition buses
Headphones
follows the
control room
selector switch. The
amp drives Hi-Z & 8
ohm headphones
Control Room
Monitor
Selectable between
an external (air)
input, the Program
bus, and the Audition
bus. The output is
line level for external
powered speakers
1-5 Mic channels Phone channel

For normal on air talent Line channels PC channel
The phone channel works with an
or a Host and Guest talk For CD players, MP3 play- When connected to a Windows PC external hybrid (user supplied)
format. Channel one fea- ers, and other analog (via a USB cable) running Arrakis through both audio and logic con-
tures a ‘Talk’ button to sources. software, the channel On-off button nections. Turn the Cue button on
talk to the ‘Studio moni- will start and stop playback of audio to listen off-line to the caller.
tor’ if a separate talk from the PC. Push the Talk switch to use the
studio is used.
Control room mic to talk off-line
to the caller. To place the caller
on air just select a bus and turn
the channel on.
3.1
Mono mic level Input Channel (channel 1)

Channels one is a dedicated mono microphone channel for the console operator.
CHANNEL ON AND OFF

To turn a channel on, simply push the red ON switch at the bottom of the fader. When the channel is on, the switch will be lighted. To
turn the channel off, simply push the red ON button again.
CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC

Channels One and Two are assumed to be located in the control room and therefore do not require remote channel on/off logic.
PROGRAM AND AUDITION BUS ASSIGNMENT

The green PGM and AUD buttons above the slide fader assign the channel to either (or both) of the main audio mixing buses: Program
& Audition. Push the button once to light the button and assign it to the bus. Push the lighted button again to unassign the channel
from the bus.
TALKBACK
Talkback is a simple 2 way intercom system to communicate with another studio such as an Announce booth, Interview room, News
room, or Production studio.
The ARC-15 has an audio output from the control room microphone that can be connected into a console in another studio. The ARC-
15 has an audio input into the cue system for the other studio to talk to the ARC-15 console.
To activate talkback, simply cick on the red ‘Talk’ switch. To exit the talkback mode, click on the ‘Talk’ button again.
CHANNEL 1 IS
MONO MIC LEVEL CHANNELS
Program Bus
Assignment
Audition Bus
Assignment Cue
Talk
Assignment
Slide fader
Level control
Channel
On switch
3.2
Mono mic level Input Channel (channel2-5)

Channels one is a dedicated mono microphone channel for the console operator. Channels 2-5 are selectable to
be either mono mic level or stereo line level channels. The selection is by internal jumpers on the individual chan-
nels. The console can therefore support just a single mic for the console operator or a talk studio with a host and
three guests.
CHANNEL ON AND OFF


Channels One and Two are assumed to be located in the control room and therefore do not require remote channel on/off logic.

from the bus.
CHANNELS 2-5 ARE SELECTABLE AS MONO

MIC OR STEREO LINE LEVEL CHANNELS
Program Bus
Assignment
Audition Bus
Assignment Cue
Talk
Assignment
Slide fader
Level control
Channel
On switch
3.2
Stereo Line Level Input Channels

On the ARC-15, channels 6-13 are stereo line level channels. Channel 2-5 are internally selectable as mic or stereo line chan-
nels.
CHANNEL ON AND OFF

To turn a channel on, simply push the red ON switch at the bottom of the fader. When the channel is on, the switch will be lighted. To turn the channel off, simply
push the red ON button again.

The line level output channels have a logic control output on the REMOTE LOGIC connector. That logic line can be made to remotely turn the channel on & off or to
remotely start and stop the audio source connected to the channel when the channel is turned on or off.

The green PGM and AUD buttons above the slide fader assign the channel to either (or both) of the main audio mixing buses: Program & Audition. Push the button
once to light the button and assign it to the bus. Push the lighted button again to unassign the channel from the bus.
CUE
To activate cue, click on the yellow CUE button above the fader. To exit the cue mode, click on the CUE button again.
Cue audio will be heard in the speaker in the VU meter housing and in the Headphones. Cue logic automatically switches the Headphones from the selected audio
source to the cue audio bus whenever any channel is placed into cue.
CHANNELS 6-13 ARE CHANNEL 14 IS

STEREO LINE LEVEL STEREO LINE LEVEL OR
CHANNELS AN OPTIONAL PC INPUT
Program Bus
Assignment
Audition Bus
Assignment Cue
Cue Bus
Assignment
Slide fader
Level control
Channel
On switch
3.3
The Telephone Input Channel (channel 15)

The ARC-15 supports a single phone caller for Live On Air or Off-line (contest caller, etc.) applications on channel 15 of the console.
CHANNEL ON AND OFF

CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC (Hybrid control)

The phone channel provides momentary, relay isolated logic to pick up the caller line (start) and to release the phone line (stop)

from the bus.
HYBRID AUDIO FEED

The output to the phone hybrid that the caller will hear is determined by channel fifteen’s output bus assignments: Pgm only, Aud only,
or
a mix of Pgm & Aud. The output to the phone hybrid will NOT include the phone callers voice which eliminates feedback.
TALKING TO THE CALLER (off line)

Push the red ‘TALK TO CALLER’ button to feed the control room mic to the caller. When the button is down, the program audio fed to
the caller is muted and only the control room mic audio is heard. The button is a momentary operation. Push down to talk, release the
button to return the caller to the normal bus audio.
LISTENING TO THE CALLER (off line)

To listen to the caller before airing (or during a talkback conversation), place the phone channel fifteen into cue by clicking on the CUE
button. Push to Talk to the Caller
Assign the caller to either or
both of the Program or Audi-
tion buses for live air or
recorded mixes.
Push the CUE button to listen

to the caller off line.
Turning the channel On and Off

activates logic to open and
close the line on the external
phone hybrid.
3.4
The Control Room Monitor system

The Control Room Monitor system is the main audio monitoring system for the studio. It features an input selector switch and a vol-
ume level control. The output of the monitor system is connected to an external audio power amplifier and speakers. The level control
on the external amplifier should be set for the maximum sound level desired in the studio.
MONITOR MUTING
When the control room microphone is turned on (channel one), the monitor system will mute (audio is turned off) so that there will
not be feedback from the speakers to the microphone.
Note: channels 2-5 are selectable as mic channels and have jumpers to assign them to mute the monitor if those mics are also locat-
ed in the control room.
MONITOR SELECTOR SWITCH

This switch selects the audio source for the Monitor system.
1) AIR- this is usually an off air audio feed to monitor the actual transmitted signal
2) PGM- the main Program output bus from the console
3) AUD- a secondary Program bus that can be used for several purposes such as Recording
MONITOR VOLUME FADER

Sets the monitor level into the external audio amplifier and speaker.
CONTROL ROOM
MONITOR LEVEL CONTROL
3.5
The Headphone system

The Headphone (earphone) system in the ARC-15 console is provided so that audio can be listened to while the microphone is active
and the monitor speakers are muted. The Headphone system receives the same audio feed as the Monitor system but does not mute
when the microphone channel is turned on. The Headphone system has a 1/4" headphone jack on the rear of the console. The head-
phone amplifier connected to the headphone jack is designed to work with high impedance and 8 ohm headphones.
CUE
The ARC-15 console features Autocue. Whenever a channel is placed into cue, the audio in the Headphone system will mute and the
Cue audio will play over the Program signal.
TALKBACK
When talkback logic is activated from another studio, then Auto-cue is activated, Headphone program audio is muted, and the audio
from the Talkback input is placed into the Headphone system for intercom.
MUTING
The headphone system is not muted. When the control room microphone is turned on, the Monitor system will mute (audio is turned
off) so that there will not be feedback from the speakers to the microphone. The headphone system can not have audio feedback so
muting is not required.

This switch selects the audio source for the Monitor & Headphone systems.
1) AIR- this is usually an off air audio feed to monitor the actual transmitted signal
2) PGM- the main Program output bus from the console
3) AUD- a secondary Program bus that can be used for several purposes such as Recording
HEADPHONE VOLUME FADER

Sets the headphone level to the internal headphone amplifier.
HEADPHONE
LEVEL
CONTROL
3.6
The Cue system

The cue system is designed for monitoring an audio source without placing it on air. This feature is useful for listening to a network
feed before bringing it to air, listening to a CD to be certain it is the correct song, etc.
ACTIVATING CUE
To activate cue, click on the CUE button on an input source channel. To exit the cue mode, click on the CUE button again. The cue signal is PRE-fader and there-
fore the fader level and the channel ON-OFF status has no effect on the cue signal.
CUE AUDIO
Cue audio will be heard in the built in Cue speaker and the Headphones. In the Headphone system, Autocue will mute the Program in the headphones and play the
cue audio over top of program audio.
CUE FADER
The cue fader adjusts the level in the internal cue speakers. It does not adjust the level of the cue in the headphones.
EXTERNAL CUE INPUT

The console has an unbalanced (-10dBu) input to the cue system on a 1/8" stereo headphone jack on the rear panel of the console & a cue logic pin on the
REMOTE LOGIC connector. The cue input sums into the cue bus and appears on the Cue speaker and Headphones.
MUTING
The cue speaker audio will be muted to stop feedback whenever Mic channels One or Two are turned on by their respective On-off switches.
CUE SPEAKER
CUE LEVEL
CUE SWITCHES CONTROL
3.7
The VU meters
The ARC-15 console features a set of vue meters for both of the console mixing buses (Pgm and Aud). This sim-
plifies operation and reduces operator error.
Program Meters Audition Meters
3.8
IN S TA LLA TION IN S TRUCTION S
INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS
4.0
Unpacking
a) PACKING SLIPS- do you have everything?
Check the Packing Slips that come with the shipment to be
certain that all packages have been received.
b) CHECK FOR DAMAGE

Check all packages and equipment for damage IMMEDIATELY
upon receipt.
If damage is found, contact Arrakis Systems immediately to

report the damage. (refer to inside cover of this manual for
contact information)
c) CAREFULLY GO THROUGH EACH BOX

Arrakis inspects every shipment for accuracy. You will
receive all of the appropriate documentation, install kit,
spare parts kit, and equipment. Be very careful to not throw
away anything if you decide to throw out the shipping mate-
rials.
d) KEEP ALL PACKING MATERIALS

Arrakis consoles are shipped in custom shipping containers.
Keep all containers at least until the installation is complete. SAVE ALL PACKING MATERIAL
This is in case some piece of equipment may need to be
returned to the factory for service.
It is a good idea to keep the shipping materials for the life of

the product. Arrakis is not responsible for shipping damage
to products not shipped to the factory in the original packing
materials.
4.1
Before you start

a) PHYSICAL SPACE
It is important to install the console with sufficient space around it to operate and service the console
easily.
b) AREA IN FRONT OF THE CONSOLE

It is normal to have 8-10" between the front of the console and the front of the table so that a piece of
paper may be laid on the table in front of the console.
c) SCRIPT OR COPY BOARD

Are you going to use a copy bridge that span the top of the console for paper or other objects. A copy
bridge can allow the console to be placed close to the front of the table in tight rooms.
d) ADEQUATE VENTILATION
It is important to provide adequate ventilation to electronic equipment. High temperatures can reduce the
life of equipment.
e) 110V - 220VAC OPERATION

The console comes with a 1
VAC-220VAC autosensing external power supply as standard equipment.
f) STATIC
Static discharge to electronic devices can cause damage, reduce performance, or cause noise in the sys-
tem. Proper choice of carpet is an important consideration when building a studio.
g) THE CONSOLE POWER SUPPLY

The console is powered by an external, regulated power supply. The supply simply plugs into the back of
the console. There are no high voltages within the console
4.2
Getting started... a MUST Read !

a) CONSUMER SOURCE EQUIPMENT
The ARC-15 console is designed to be used with balanced professional & unbalanced consumer type audio source equipment such as CD players,
MDs, DAT machines, cassette machines, etc. Unbalanced consumer equipment is designed to perform well in compact studios where audio cables
are short. Balanced audio is required when connecting multiple studios or with long audio cable runs ( > 10 feet). When choosing consumer audio
equipment, choose equipment that has 2 prong AC power plugs (not the 3 prong plugs).
b) AC POWER CONSIDERATIONS
Plug all of the equipment in your studio into a single AC power strip!
Unbalanced consumer source equipment is not designed to reject AC power line hum. This makes it important to put ALL of the equipment
in the studio on the same branch of the AC power and preferably on a single AC power outlet. A single power outlet will have a 1500-2000 watt
capacity. That is plenty of power for most studios. Simply plug a multi-outlet AC power strip into the single wall outlet and then all of your equip-
ment into the power strip. If possible, the power strip should be the kind that has internal surge protection.
Because many buildings have as many as 8-12 duplex wall outlets on a single 1500-2000 watt branch, you must have NO other equipment
on any of those 8-12 other outlets. Make sure the branch your outlet is on does not also power the lights or any other building equipment.
c) SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT 60 CYCLE HUM (or some ideas about what to do if you get it)
The RCA audio cables used in consumer audio equipment connect the chassis ground and signal ground of all of the equipment in the studio togeth-
er through the cable shield. All shield ground connections should be as tight and low impedance as possible. Use only high quality RCA (IHF) audio
cables.
Most consumer audio equipment will have a 2 prong AC power plug. Some equipment has a 3 prong AC power plug. The third prong on a 3
prong plug is a “Safety Ground” which grounds the chassis to reduce shock hazard. The 3rd prong must never be removed even though it creates
a 2nd ground path along with the audio cable shield ground. Two ground paths creates a “Ground loop” antenna which picks up 60 cycle AC hum. If
possible, use only equipment that has 2 prong AC power plugs. With stubborn hum, replace the equipment with 3 prong AC power plugs with equip-
ment with 2 prong AC power plugs. This is often less expensive that making a custom audio cable with audio transformer isolation.
If there is NO other ground connected to the studio, a single piece of equipment with a 3 prong AC plug does not create a ground loop.
However, if there is another ground (such as from another studio) or a 2nd piece of equipment with a 3 prong AC power plug, then a ground loop is
completed. If you can not change to two prong equipment, it may be necessary to use an audio isolation transformer on the audio cable to break
the audio ground path. Contact a technician or the factory on how to build a transformer isolated audio cable.
In some stubborn cases of hum (or RF interference), the best solution is to make the ground resistance between ALL of the equipment
as low as possible. To do this, connect all of the equipment chassis’ together with #12 stranded, insulated wire. Each piece of equipment is to have
its own wire that returns in a star configuration to a single point in the studio. That single point should return by a single ground wire back to the
main station ground. A 2"-4" copper ground strap to station ground is best.
d) CONNECTING MULTIPLE STUDIOS

When connecting multiple studios, long audio cables are sometimes necessary. These long cables can introduce AC hum into your audio. In these
cases, it may be necessary to use distribution amplifiers with balanced inputs and outputs (or audio isolation transformers) to break the ground
path and to cancel the AC hum.
e) STEP BY STEP INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

When building a studio, it is important to be able to isolate problems that may be causing noise, hum, or even not passing audio. To do this properly,
the studio should be assembled and tested one piece of equipment at a time. Each problem is detected and eliminated as it occurs. This manual
provides a basic step by step process to assemble and test your studio.
4.3
Step by Step Instructions

IMPORTANT- Follow this STEP by STEP procedure. Each STEP has specific tests to determine if the console installation
has been performed correctly to that point.
a) STEP 1- POWER SUPPLY INSTALLATION
The console power supply should be plugged into a surge protected outlet. First plug the power supply into the back of the console and then plug the
power supply into the AC outlet.
TEST- The console should now be on. To test for power, simply push one of the console On/off switches to see that the Channel On LED lights.
b) STEP 2- CONNECT AN AUDIO SOURCE

Select a single audio source such as a CD player. Choose a console channel for the source (such as Channel 6), and connect the audio source to the
console with a stereo audio cable.
On the channel that you have chosen for the source (such as channel 3), turn the channel on by pushing the red on button(the red on LED
should now be on), and bring the slide fader on that channel to the in hand setting (0).
Insert a CD into the CD player and push the Play button on the CD player to begin play.
TEST- The VU meters on the console should move as the CD plays a song.
c) STEP 3- LISTEN TO AUDIO ON HEADPHONES

Plug the headphones into the headphone jack on the back right side of the console as illustrated. The console supports both low impedance (8 ohm) and high
impedance (>20 ohm) headphones. Play a CD as in Step 2. Select PGM on the Monitor Select Switch. Adjust the headphone level control on the console to a
comfortable audio level.
TEST- You should hear the song on the CD clearly. There should be no audible hum or noise. If you hear no audio or there is hum or noise, then repeat Steps
1,2,&3.
STEP 3- PLUG IN STEP 2- CONNECT AN AUDIO SOURCE

HEADPHONES TO LISTEN
Plug in a pair
of high impedance STEP 1- CONNECT THE
headphones and listen AC POWER SUPPLY
to the CD player
Connect a CD player to
Channel 6 on the console
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
Back panel Diagram for ARC-15BP console
4.4
Monitor amp & Speakers

STEP 4- MONITOR SPEAKER CONNECTION
The console has a low level monitor audio output that is designed to connect to an external audio power amplifier. The console output will not directly drive
speakers.
Connect the audio amplifier input to the console Monitor Output on the back panel of the console. Follow the amplifier’s instructions and connect speakers to the
amplifier.
Turn the console power on and the amplifier power on. On the console, select PGM on the Monitor Selector switch and rotate the Monitor Volume control to 1/2.
Set the audio power amplifier level and front panel switches per the amplifier instruction manual.
WARNING- do NOT have all levels controls at maximum. Too much audio level through your speakers can damage the speakers.
There should be an audio source (such as CD player) connected to the console as described in Steps 1,2, & 3. Turn the console source channel on and play a
song. The VU meters should move with the audio and audio should be present at the headphone jack at the back of the console. Be certain that any mic channel is
turned off because it will mute the audio out of the speakers so that there is no feedback. Audio should now be audible through the monitor speakers.
TEST- The audio through the monitor speakers should be clear and without significant noise or hum.
STEP 4- CONNECT AN AMP & SPEAKERS

RCA AUDIO CABLE
Connect an
audio power The Black con-
amp and nector is right
speakers and the Red con-
to the MON nector is left
output of
the console
Audio power amp
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.5
Microphones
STEP 5- CONNECT A MIC TO THE CONSOLE
Using a mic to XLR cable, connect a mic to the Mic 1 input on the console.
Turn Channel One on (the red LED should be on) and set the channel one fader to the in hand position (middle). If the mic itself has an on/off switch, then turn
it on.
TEST- Speak into the microphone and the console VU meters should follow your voice. There should be no audio out of the monitor speakers (they are muted
to eliminate feedback) but there should be audio in the Headphones.
If mic level is low, refer to “Calibration” later in this section.
STEP 5- CONNECT A MIC TO THE CONSOLE

MIC ONE
Connect a mic to the

XLR mic inputs and
test the mic
into the headphones
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.6
Program Output
STEP 6- CONSOLE PROGRAM OUTPUT
The console has both balanced and unbalanced Program bus outputs
UNBALANCED PROGRAM OUTPUT

The console program output (PGM) is located on the console back panel. It is an unbalanced (-10dBu) audio output.
BALANCED PROGRAM OUTPUT

The console program output (PGM) is located on the console back panel. It is a balanced (+4dBu) audio output on XLR connectors.
CONNECTING THE PROGRAM OUTPUT TO THE SIGNAL CHAIN

The console Program output is both unbalanced analog (-10dBu level) and balanced (+4dBu). The Audition output is unbalanced. In either case, the equipment
that the Program output drives must accept one of these input types and levels. You must refer to the product manual for that product. In some cases, it
may be useful to connect the Program output of the console to an audio distribution amplifier which is designed to connect analog audio products that are
of different types and levels.
TEST- The Program output of the console is connected to additional equipment (processor, distribution amp, etc) to form a signal chain. Check for pres-
ence and quality of audio at each point along the signal chain.
STEP 6- connect the console Program output to the station’s Signal Chain
Unbalanced Pgm out (-10dBu) Balanced Pgm out (+4dBu)
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.7
Record Output
STEP 7- CONSOLE RECORD OUTPUT
The console AUDITION output (AUD) is usually the bus that is used for recording. By using the Audition bus for recording, a recording can be occurring at the
same time as the Program bus is used On Air. If you want to record the On Air signal on the Program bus, simply assign all of the channels in PGM also to
AUD.
The Audition output connectors are located on the console back panel. It is an unbalanced (-10dBu) audio output.
CONNECTING TO AN AUDIO RECORDER

Most audio recorders will directly connect to consumer type unbalanced sources such as the Audition (Record) output of the console. Connect to the record-
er with the analog cable supplied with the recorder.
TEST
Once connected, send audio from the console output to the recorder and view the input signal on the recorder. Refer to the recorder manual for more infor-
mation.
RCA AUDIO CABLE EXAMPLE: MARANTZ CD RECORDER
The Black con-

nector is right
and the Red con-
nector is left
STEP 7- ANALOG AUDITION (RECORD) OUTPUT
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.8
Telephone hybrids
STEP 8- CONNECT A TELEPHONE HYBRID
1) CONSOLE PHONE INPUT- A telephone hybrid has an audio input and an audio output. The hybrid audio output is the callers voice and is connected to the
source input channel 15 on the console.
2) CONSOLE MIX MINUS OUTPUT- The input to the hybrid is from the console PHONE OUT connector on the back of the console. A mix minus bus is a special
audio mixing bus that contains all audio on the console program bus MINUS the callers voice. In this way the caller hears everything except himself. If he was not
“minused” from the mix, then the caller would feed back to himself.
3) CONTROL LOGIC- The hybrid has two ways to “answer” the caller and pick up the telephone line: front panel manual control of the hybrid itself and remote
control. For manual control, an On and Off button will be located on the front panel of the hybrid. For remote control, the PHONE LOGIC back panel connector
(RJ45) must have a custom cable connecting it to the console source start/stop logic. The logic is dry reed relay closures for both Start and Stop as shown
below.
4) CALIBRATION- The console PHONE IN and PHONE OUT connectors are set for +4dBu levels. These connectors have trim pots next to their respective XLR con-
nectors
5) FACTORY CABLES- Arrakis has prebuilt cables for audio and logic available for a variety of source equipment. Refer to “Factory Cables” later in this section
and on the Arrakis website (www.arrakis-systems.com)
BACK PANEL HYBRID LOGIC CONNECTOR
RJ45 WIRING STANDARD COLORS

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
PIN Wire Color Audio
1 White w/Orange Stripe Start w 100 ohms
2 Orange w/White Stripe Start w 100 ohms
STEP 8- CONNECT A TELEPHONE HYBRID 3 White w/Green Stripe Stop w 100 ohms
4 Blue w/White Stripe Stop w 100 ohms
5 White w/Blue Stripe Start RJ45
6 Green w/White Stripe Start
7 White w/Brown Stripe Stop
8 Brown w/White Stripe Stop
A reed relay makes a momentary closure between the two START

contacts (pins 5 & 6) and a second reed relay makes a momentary clo-
sure between the two STOP contacts (pins 7 & 8). The same reed relays
On/off Audio Audio make the same closures with a 100 ohm series resistance to Pins 1,2,3,4
Logic Input Output
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.9
Talkback to another Studio

STEP 9- TALKBACK
The Talkback feature is designed so that a console can easily communicate with another studio. In the ARC-15 studio, the operator pushes the TALK button on
mic channels One or Two and speaks through his control room mic into the Monitor/cue system of the other studio. The second studio responds back to the
ARC-15 studio and the audio is heard through the CUE system.
INSTALLATION
The ARC-15 has a talkback audio output to be sent to the remote studio and an audio input to the Cue system (with logic) to receive audio from the remote
studio. All connections are made to the 15 pin, D-sub LOGIC connector on the rear of the console. On site installation requires the building of a custom cable to
link the console to the studio at the other end.
a) TALKBACK INPUT- on the 15 pin D-sub LOGIC connector, (refer to 4.14 for pin number)
b) INPUT LOGIC- on the 15 pin D-sub LOGIC connector, (refer to 4.14 for pin number)
+12VDC to enable autocue into the headphones.
(If logic is not used, then the talkback will appear in the Cue speaker only)
c) TALKBACK OUTPUT- on the 15 pin D-sub LOGIC connector, (-10dBu, unbalanced, analog), (refer to 4.14 for pin number)
d) OUTPUT LOGIC- None
OTHER CONSOLES
Talkback can be accomplished between non ARC-15 series consoles and studios. Care should be taken to assure compatibility between logic voltages.
GROUND LOOPS AND HUM

Because of long cable lengths between studios, it is possible for the talkback system to introduce hum into one or both studios. Isolation transformers may
be required on the analog inputs and outputs.
FACTORY CABLE
Arrakis has an optional cables available in various lengths from the factory.
TEST
Test talkback between the two studios. It is important to also listen for hum or noise in the Program output on the control room monitor speakers.
STEP 9- TALKBACK
LOGIC connector with

talkback in-out and logic
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.10
External Monitor Input

STEP 10- OFF AIR MONITORING
The Monitor Selector Switch has an External Input position (AIR). This position is usually used to monitor the actual radio station on air signal from a radio tuner.
NOTE: it is important to monitor the actual signal from the radio station and not just the output of the console. This is so as to monitor the entire radio chain
from the console to the transmitter.
INSTALLATION
Connect the output of a radio tuner or professional on air monitor to the AIR IN connector on the back of the console.
IMPORTANT: if using a consumer tuner, use a line level output and not the speaker output.
CALIBRATION
The AIR IN is calibrated to -10dBu input level. Interior trimpots may be factory adjusted to different levels.
TEST
Set up the tuner or monitor to your station’s frequency and switch the console control room monitor to the AIR position. You should hear the audio output of the
tuner. Audio quality should be high and there should be no objectionable audio hum.
STEP 10- OFF AIR MONITORING
RADIO RECEIVER
Tuner or Off Air
Monitor Output
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.11
The On Air Light

STEP 11- CONNECT AN ON AIR LIGHT
The console has a logic output for triggering an external On Air Light.
This installation procedure requires a professional technician to build an interface circuit for driving the On
Air light that you have chosen. Some lights require low voltages (such as 24VDC) and others require
110VAC. Some have built in drivers but most do not.
Contact the factory for some typical circuits to drive an On Air light.
MUTING LOGIC
This is on PIN One of the 15 pin D-sub LOGIC connector on the rear of the console.
Muted: open collector transistor to ground, 20millamps

Unmuted: floating
IMPORTANT- The logic output will not directly drive an AC light bulb and will be destroyed if AC is applied to
any console logic pin.
TEST
Activating the On Air Light should not produce an audio pop in the console audio.
LOGIC connector with

On Air light (Miting) logic on Pin One
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.12
Factory built Cables

The factory has a number of factory built
cables available for purchase. These cables
interface typical source and other equipment
to the console.
Contact the factory for a current listing of

cables and supported equipment.
4.13
Console Logic IMPORTANT- improper connection to console logic can damage the console.
The DB-15 connector on the rear panel of the console has the logic & audio signals required for support-
ing a talk studio and controlling the starting & stopping of sources.
Sample interface circuits for control are illustrated in 4.15.
DB15 CONNECTOR PINOUT (Solder Cup)

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
15 14 13 12 11 10 9
CONSOLE BACK PANEL VIEW
PIN DESCRIPTION
1 Control Room Mute Logic (will switch to Pin 13 ground)
2 Autocue Logic In (switch to ground to turn on)
3 Channel 13 Logic (+12VDC channel on, 0VDC channel off)
8 Channel 2 Cue on/off Logic for Talk-back.
10 Studio Monitor Left Audio Output
11 Studio Monitor Right Audio Output
12 Talkback audio from Mic 1 and Mic 2
13 Ground
14 + 12 VDC
15 Talkback Audio Input to Cue
4.14
Console Logic IMPORTANT- improper connection to console logic can damage the console.
Channel Logic
Several channels on the console feature channel logic for use in talk studios or starting and stopping source devices. The logic
requires an interface circuit to be built by a qualified broadcast technician.
ON
a) Remote Channel On-off w Tally 475
+12V
The circuit shown at the right will remotely turn a 475 OFF
console channel on and off and drive a tally lamp to Channel
display the On-off satus. Logic
+12V
1k
ON/OFF
TALLY
LED
22.1k
2N3904
b) Source Start-stop Circuit

The circuit shown at the right will close the relay for
~ 0.5 seconds to start & stop an audio source device
such as a CD player.
+12V
1N914 10uF START
Channel 47K
Logic +
2N3904
22K 22K
+12V
+12V
1K 1N914 10uF STOP
47K
22K
Channel
Logic
+
2N3904
2N3904 22K 22K
4.15
Balanced Inputs
Input channels with balanced audio using RJ45 connectors as illustrated below. Pins 5,7,8 are not con-
nected.
The balanced inputs are >10,000 ohm input impedance and levels are set for +4dBu signals.
EIA/TIA 568B WIRING STANDARD COLORS

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
PIN Wire Color Audio
1 White w/Orange Stripe Left (+)
2 Orange Left (-)
3 White w/Green Stripe Right (+)
4 Blue Ground
5 White w/Blue Stripe RJ45
6 Green Right (-)
7 White w/Brown Stripe
8 Brown
4.16
PC Setup
The ARC-15 console features a built in sound card on Channel Fourteen of the console. This enables the console to play audio
directly from a Windows PC using Arrakis APEX-Live software. The console can play audio from the PC, record audio to the
PC, and control the start and stop of play on the PC.
RECOMMENDED OPERATING SYSTEM

Visit our website for the latest required specifications.
CONNECTIONS
The PC is connected to the console by:
1) USB cable (USB 1 or USB 2)
2) RS232 serial port cable (or RS232 to USB converter, contact the factory for recommended products)
3) Audio cable (1/8" stereo phone jack)
INSTALLING & OPERATING THE SOFTWARE

refer to the Section Five of this manual
RS232 Pinout LAPTOP OR DEKTOP PC
PC LINE OUT
9 PIN
RS232 AUDIO CABLE WITH
SERIAL
CONTROL 1/8" PHONE JACKS
CABLE USB
PORT
cable
CUE USB
IN PORT
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
IF YOUR PC DOES NOT HAVE AN RS232 PORT such as: IOGEAR GUC232A
RS232 to USB adapter
ARC RS232 PORT

USB
HUB PC USB PORT
ARC CH 9 USB PORT
4.17
ARC-16SW 16 in X 3 out Remote Selector for the ARC-15

Adding more Inputs to the ARC-15 Console
For applications requiring more than the fifteen inputs supported by the ARC-15, the ARC-16SW provides up to 16 more stereo inputs that can be select-
able to any 3 console channels. The switcher features balanced inputs that are all trim pot adjustable from consumer levels (-10dBu) to professional levels
(+4dBu).
The ARC-16SW
The ARC-16SW is a custom configuration of the Arrakis BROADCAST DOCKING STATION. The BROADCAST AUDIO DOCKING STATION is a multipurpose product
with applications that vary depending on the firmware loaded into the hardware and the PC software used to control it. In the ARC-16SW application the
firmware in the hardware is internally configured to support only the 16 x 3 router functions.
PC Control
The ARC-16SW is controlled via RS232 serial cable from a PC computer. While the console does not have direct control of the switcher from its front panel,
the PC software adds ease of use and flexibility with on screen labeling, support of touch screen monitors, and much more.
Network control from ANY Studio

Client/Server software comes standard with the ARC-16SW so you can view and control the switcher from ANY Windows PC computer on the network in
your station.
PC Configuration
The ARC-16SW supports Windows PC’s for control. The computer must have an RS232 serial cable or a USB to serial converter. Contact the factory for
suggested converters.
16 Stereo Sources
Control the Switcher

by Windows PC
software LGC IN3 SAT LGC3 CUE CH 16 CH 13 CH 10 CH 7 CH 4 CH 1
SAT LGC1 SUM IN CH 14 CH 11 CH 8 CH 5 CH 2

REC LGC LGC IN1
SAT LGC2 PGM CH 15 CH 12 CH 9 CH 6 CH 3

LGC OUT LGC IN2
PGM CH 4 CH 4 CH 1 CH 1
PGM CH 13 CH13 CH 10 CH10 CH 7 CH7
RGT EXT EXT RGT LFT RGT LFT
LFT RGT LFT RGT LFT RGT LFT
RGT LFT
CUE CH 5 CH 5 CH 2 CH 2
CUE CH 11 CH 11 CH 8 CH 8
LFT RGT CH 16 CH 16 CH 14 CH 14
RGT LFT RGT LFT RGT LFT
RGT LFT RGT LFT
RGT LFT
Broadcast DockingStation III CH 9 CH9 CH 6 CH 6 CH 3 CH 3

CH 15 CH15 CH 12 CH 12 LFT
Professional PC toBroadcast AudioInterface LFT RGT LFT RGT
RGT LFT RGT LFT RGT
PC 2 PC 2 PC 1 PC 1
REC REC RGT LFT RGT LFT
RGT LFT
PC DC
HEAD PC PC PWR
RS232 USB REC TWO ONE
PHN IN
COM OUT IN
3 stereo Outputs
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.18
ARC-16SW Software
Push button Array for Manual Control
FEATURES
Client/Server network control from ANY studio
Manual Pushbutton control of 16 inputs & 3 outputs
Customized Labeling of all Inputs & Outputs
Source lockout to prevent feedback
Touchscreen size buttons
One Week Source Automation play list
Copy & Paste Hour and Day schedules
Play log for reconciliation
Emergency Silence Sensor on Main Output
Programmable delay time One Week Automation Play List
Automatically switches to a Backup source channel w relay
The ARC-16SW software is extremely easy to use. The software searches for
the switcher automatically when opened and displays the current switcher
status. The 17 by 3 button array makes it very easy to manually select a
source channel for a console input or even for the station output to the
transmitter chain. The automation schedule is a one week rotating schedule
and is easy to set up. Schedule a basic hour (or day) and then copy & paste it
into other hours & days. A count down clock displays time to the next sched-
uled event. A log documents the operation of the schedule. Very little training
is required and the ability to name every source and output makes operation
totally intuitive. The ability to lock out sources from an output makes feed-
back impossible. The software is ideal for use as an input expander for a con-
sole or as a station switcher. Play Log screen
4.19
ARC-16SW 16 in X 3 out Remote Selector for the ARC-15

SWITCHER WIRING
a) WHITE MOLEX CONNECTORS
As viewed looking down on the switcher . NOTE: the BROADCAST AUDIO DOCKING STATION is a multipurpose
Pin 7 is engraved on the connector housing. Pins are .090" product with applications that vary depending on the firmware loaded
into the hardware and the PC software used to control it. In the ARC-
_/\_/\_/\_ 16SW application the firmware in the hardware is internally configured
| 1 2 3 | to support only the 16 x 3 router functions. Therefore the logic and
| 4 5 6 | other connectors that support other functions should be ignored.
| 7 8 9 |
------------
b) DESCRIPTION
The switcher has active balanced audio inputs & outputs to the switcher. The pin out is shown below. Each of the 16 inputs, the Pro-
gram output, and Cue output has a trim pot level adjust. The balanced Record output is a fixed level, however the Record output also
has an unbalanced 1/8" headphone jack output with trim pot. Gain is increased by turning the trimpot counterclockwise. Levels are
set from the factory for +4dBm input and output. Only a qualified technician with appropriate test equipment should adjust the lev-
els.
c) IMPORTANT
none of the audio outputs should be grounded. Grounding an audio output will result in the destruction of the audio output driver IC.
d) ‘CHANNEL 1' to ‘CHANNEL 16' Input Connectors

1) Audio ground
2) Right + input Cue & Record Program Inputs
3) Right - input Output Output 1-16
4) na
5) Left + input
6) Left - input
7) na
8) na
9) na
CUE CH 16 CH 13 CH 10 CH 7 CH 4 CH 1
LGC IN3 SAT LGC3
e) ‘PROGRAM’ Connector (Program Output)

1) Audio ground REC LGC LGC IN1 SAT LGC1 SUM IN CH 14 CH 11 CH 8 CH 5 CH 2
2) Right - input
3) Right + input
4) Start relay to pin 9 (momentary) LGC OUT LGC IN2 SAT LGC2 PGM CH 15 CH 12 CH 9 CH 6 CH 3
5) Left - input
6) Left + input PGM
LFT
PGM
RGT EXT
RGT
EXT
LFT
CH 13
RGT
CH13
LFT
CH 10
RGT
CH10
LFT
CH 7
RGT
CH7
LFT
CH 4
RGT
CH 4
LFT
CH 1
RGT
CH 1
LFT
7) na
8) na CUE
LFT
CUE
RGT CH 16
RGT
CH 16 CH 14
LFT RGT
CH 14
LFT
CH 11
RGT
CH 11
LFT
CH 8
RGT
CH 8
LFT
CH 5
RGT
CH 5
LFT
CH 2
RGT
CH 2
LFT
9) na
Broadcast DockingStation III
f) ‘CUE’ Connector (Cue & Record outputs)
CH 6 CH 6 CH 3 CH 3
CH 15 CH15 CH 12 CH 12 CH 9 CH9
LFT
Professional PC toBroadcast AudioInterface LFT RGT LFT RGT
RGT LFT RGT LFT RGT
1) Audio ground REC REC

PC 2
RGT
PC 2
LFT
PC 1 PC 1
RGT LFT
2) Cue Right - output RGT LFT
PC DC
HEAD PC PC PWR
RS232 USB TWO ONE
3) Cue Right + output PHN REC
COM OUT IN IN
4) Record R - output
5) Cue Left - output
6) Cue Left + output
Unbalanced Record output
7) Record Right + output
(1/8" headphone jack)
8) Record Left - output
BROADCAST AUDIO DOCKING STATION
9) Record Left + output
4.20
Basic Calibration
The console has trim pot level adjustment for several inputs and outputs.
WARNING
The console has been calibrated at the factory to normal -10dBu and +4dBu levels and should not require field calibra-
tion. Usually, it is better to adjust the level out of the source device than to adjust the console trim levels. Field calibra-
tion should only be done with proper test equipment and by a qualified audio technician.
VU METER ADJUSTMENT
The VU meters are factory set for +4dBu at 0VU. These levels should not be changed from factory settings unless directed by factory service technicians.
MIC GAIN ADJUSTMENT

These trim pots are set at the factory for typical microphone gain levels. These trim pots can be adjusted if different mic gains are required. To adjust, the
simplest method is to speak into the mic and adjust the trim pot with a small straight edge screwdriver until the desired gain is reached.
UNBALANCED SOURCE CHANNEL GAIN ADJUSTMENT

No gain adjust is required for unbalanced -10dBu source devices
BALANCED SOURCE CHANNEL GAIN ADJUSTMENT

These channels are set at the factory for +4dBu levels. If the levels must be adjusted, trim pots are available on the bottom of the motherboard. This
requires the bottom panel of the console to be removed. Care must be taken when adjusting the trimpots to not short any electronics. Refer to the
motherboard diagram in Section Six, Service and Maintenance.
PHONE CHANNEL FIFTEEN LEVEL ADJUST

The phone in and out audio connectors are balanced +4dBu outputs that may be adjusted on the rear panel by the trimpots located beside each XLR connec-
tor.
PROGRAM & AUDITION OUTPUT LEVEL ADJUST

The Program balanced output has a trim pot level adjust on the rear panel beside the XLR.
The Audition output is unbalanced -10dBu consumer level and does not require trimming.
MIC
PROGRAM PHONE trim pots
trim pots trim pots
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis
4.21
APEX-LIVE FOR
THE ARC CONSOLE
5.0
Getting Started
Included with an ARC series console (with a USB channel) is a free copy of APEX-Live. This software is the ultimate live assist tool for anyone
who wants to put on a dynamic and powerful live show. It includes features that give you unprecedented customization and flexibility. We are
confident that you will love this software.
This software is intended only for Live Assist. This means that it will not be capable of playing unattended such as with an Automation product
like APEX. If you are looking for a full featured automation system that can play unattended, please consider one of our automation product,
such as APEX or New~Wave. Visit our website for more details.
Installation
To download the software, please go to this link here: http://arrakis-systems.com/download.html
This download will contain a full copy of the APEX-Live manual and an install EXE program. Follow the instructions on the website to install. All
files will be installed to the C:DHD folder. To uninstall, simply delete the C:DHD folder.
This software, along with the latest version of the Operations Manual can always be found on our website for download.
Updates
The APEX-Live software and training material will be updated on a regular basis, without notice. Please visit our website to get the latest
updates.
Support
The software is specifically designed to be easy to use for people with average PC computer and radio industry experience.
Support is limited to the product manual and the on screen help system in the software itself. Refer to the Arrakis website at
www.arrakis-systems.com for updated training materials. In a case where telephone support is a necessity, Arrakis has per minute
and per incident support available that can be paid for by valid credit card. For comprehensive support and advanced automation
features, please consider one of our automation product. Refer to the website or contact the factory for details.
Feedback
APEX-Live is an evolving software that will be updated on a regular basis. As such, we greatly appreciate any customer feedback. This may
include reporting issues with the software, or features that you would like to see added. Please visit our website to submit your requests.
To contact one of our support agents, please email:

apexlivesupport@arrakis-systems.com
5.1
Connecting the PC to the Console
To fully interface the console and the PC, three cables must be connected between the two pieces of equipment.
(1) USB cable: transfers play and record audio between the PC and the console
(2) RS232 cable: transfers logic commands such as play and stop between the PC and the console
(3) Audio cable: 1/8" stereo phone jack from the ‘Cue In’ on the console to the ‘Line out (or speaker out)’ on the PC
Some PCs do not have an RS232 com port. This will require the user to purchase an ‘RS232 to USB’ adapter and a ‘USB hub’. The
adapter and the hub will combine the RS232 cable and USB cable into one and then connect to the PC with only a single USB cable.
LAPTOP OR DEKTOP PC
PC LINE OUT
9 PIN
RS232 AUDIO CABLE WITH
SERIAL
CONTROL 1/8" PHONE JACKS
CABLE USB
PORT
cable
CUE USB
IN PORT
ARC-15BP L L L L L
Headphone
RS232
R R R R R
PC 48V Arrakis

IF YOUR PC DOES NOT HAVE AN RS232 PORT such as: IOGEAR GUC232A
RS232 to USB adapter
ARC RS232 PORT

USB
HUB PC USB PORT
ARC CH 9 USB PORT
5.2
S ERVICE & M A IN TEN A N CE
SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS
6.0
General Repair Considerations

WARNING
The console should be repaired by qualified, professional, & experienced, audio technicians ONLY. Before
beginning any type of repair or opening the console CALL Arrakis customer support for recommendations.
DESIGNED FOR MODULAR PART REPLACEMENT
The ARC series console is designed for modular replacement rather than repair. The power supply is external and plug in. The rotary faders are plug in. Most
ICs are plug in, and a physical board layout is provided with descriptions of the functions of each IC. ICs can be individually replaced to test for functionality. A
small amount of disassembly is required. Diagrams on the following pages explain the required disassembly.
PC BOARD COMPONENT LEVEL REPAIR

If possible, PC board component level repair requiring soldering should be performed at the factory. In particular, replacement of slide faders and switches
should be performed at the factory. If the repair must be made in the field, then extreme care must be taken to not damage the PC board or other components.
Arrakis can not warranty non-factory service.
POWER SUPPLY
The power supply is a sealed module that must be replaced in whole if there is a problem.
REPEATED EQUIPMENT FAILURES

If a specific part of the console is failing regularly, it is likely that it is being subject to unusual stresses.
Examples are;
(1) Switch or fader failure- rough physical treatment
(2) Mic channel IC failure- static discharge to mic
(3) Input op amp failure- lightning, power surge, or other transient on this cable
(4) Output op amp failure- lightning, power surge, or other transient on this cable
(5) Power Supply failure- lightening, power surge, or other transient on the AC power line
SUGGESTED REPAIR PROCEDURES
(1) NO AUDIO OUT OF ONE INPUT CHANNEL- (Swap Cables) Be certain that the problem is in the console itself. If mic channel two doesn’t function but mic
channel one functions properly, then plug the cable from the good mic into the channel that you suspect to be bad. If the channel that you suspect to be bad
now functions, then the problem is external to the console and is in the source or the wiring. This is a very fast and easy way to test your system.
(2) VU METERS MOVE BUT NO AUDIO OUT OF THE CONSOLE- The VU meters measure the actual output of the console itself. If the meters move but no audio
is present, the problem is after the console output and is in the following signal chain. Plug a set of headphones into the output of the console and listen to the
Program output to confirm this.
(3) LOUD LOW FREQUENCY HUM IN AUDIO- Many years ago this would mean a power supply failure. In today’s electronics, this is an installation problem such
as a ground loop. To confirm the problem is not in the console, remove ALL wiring from the console and connect a pair of headphones to the output you are
testing. The hum should be absent. All wiring must be removed and headphones only used. A very common problem is for an audio power amp and speakers to
create the ground loop with the console.
(4) NO AUDIO OUT OF THE MONITORS- Be certain that the monitor system is not muted due to a mic channel being on or talkback being activated.
6.1
Opening the Console

WARNING
The console should be repaired by qualified, professional, & experienced, audio technicians ONLY. Before
beginning any type of repair or opening the console CALL Arrakis customer support for recommenda-
tions.
ACCESSING THE MOTHERBOARD

The motherboard is accessed from the bottom of the console. Six screws must be removed from the bottom panel to have access to the con-
sole electronics for test and IC replacement. Be careful to not scratch the console when turning the console over.
REMOVING THE MOTHERBOARD

The motherboard is attached on the top of the front panel (slide fader screws) and with screws on the bottom of the motherboard, requiring
access to the inside of the console. When replacing the motherboard, be certain to replace all of the screws so that switches and faders will
operate properly.
ACCESSING THE INTERIOR OF THE VU METER PANEL

The VU meter panel is opened by removing the screw at the left and right front of the panel.
ACCESS SCREWS
6.2
Replacing Slide Faders, Switches, and other parts

Slide faders and switches are soldered onto the PC board and should be replaced at the factory if at all possible.
The procedure requires proper tools, and it can be difficult to remove the parts without damaging traces or pads
on the PC board. Also, the switches are very sensitive to temperature and duration during the soldering process
and can be electronically damaged or destroyed when being soldered. If a slide fader, switch, or other part must
be replaced in the field, then extreme care must be taken.
Tools required:
1) Hand held solder sucker (stranded solder wick is not suggested)
2) Temperature controlled soldering iron with pencil tip (soldering guns should not be used)
Procedure:
1) Suck the solder from all holes until the damaged component is entirely free from the PC board. Remove the dam-
aged part.
2) Place the new part onto the PC board. Slide faders and switches (and some other parts) ARE oriented and MUST
be replaced in the correct orientation.
3) Carefully solder the new part to the PC board.
a) Clean the tip of the soldering iron on a wet sponge.
b) Tin the tip of the soldering iron (cover the tip of the soldering iron with a small amount of solder).
c) Set the soldering iron to 734 degrees Fahrenheit (390 degrees celsius).
d) Touch the tip of the ‘soldering iron’ to the junction of the PC board pad AND the component lead.
e) Immediately touch the ‘solder’ to the junction of the soldering iron and the PC board pad.
f) Flow only enough solder to fill the hole. Immediately remove the soldering iron from the part.
g) Do not keep the soldering iron on the part for more than 2 seconds.
h) Clean the solder rosin from the PC board if required. (See Note #1 below)
Note #1: Arrakis uses aqueous core (water soluble) solder that requires the solder joint to be cleaned by water
after soldering. Aqueous core solder is acidic and must be cleaned so as to not damage the PC board over time.
Rosin core solder is not water soluble and requires a flux remover if it is to be cleaned. The rosin residue however
does not have to be removed for rosin core solder.
Warranty: Arrakis can only warranty service performed at the factory. All field service is performed at the
customer’s risk.
6.3
Replacing Rotary Faders

All 3 rotary faders are in a single wiring harness that plugs into
the motherboard. The entire harness should be replaced with all REMOVING THE KNOB
three pots. Contact the factory for a replacement harness.
To remove a rotary fader KNOB

(1) Remove the knob cover as illustrated COVER
(2) Remove the nut and nut plate.
(3) The pot will now remove from the rear of the
Pry cover from
front panel.
top of the Knob
(4) Unplug the pot from the motherboard. KNOB
to reveal a lock
nut. Unscrew the LOCK
lock nut to remove NUT
To put a new rotary fader in place:
the knob
Reverse the removal procedure
ARC-15 Arrakis Systems inc.
Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Pgm Advanced
Radio
Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Aud Console
Cue
Talk Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue Cue
Talk to
Caller
Head
Monitor & Headphone phone
Input Select
Air
Pgm
Aud
Arrakis Systems Monitor
Mic Phone
6.4
Replacing ICs
ICs must be replaced with care. Most ICs in the console are socketed so that they can be replaced.
When replacing an IC, be careful to not bend legs under the IC or outside the socket. Be extremely careful to not shock
an IC or the motherboard with a static discharge. In some cases, you must use a grounded arm or anklet if there is a
possibility of a static discharge.
In all cases, retain the old IC because it may be found to not be damaged.
6.5
MIC CHANNELS Talk to
ON PGM AUD TALK Studio VU meter F M L
PL-PR-AL-AR-Q-TB
CONTROL ROOM
LEFT A U
Logic Logic Logic D MONITOR OUTPUT
T
Trim E to powered speakers
E R
Trim F PGM R (-10dBu RCA phono)
MIC INPUT
balanced A SW
D
(-50dBu, XLR) VU meter F
E AUD M
R RIGHT A
SW U INTERNAL CUE SPEAKER
48V PHANTOM D Pwr
Trim T in VU meter bridge
POWER E
TALK E
(2mm PLUG) R
SW
O
F
LINE CHANNELS ON PGM AUD CUE Pwr U
A HEADPHONE OUTPUT
FET
Cue Sum D L/R for 8 ohm or Hi-Z headphones
Logic Logic Logic SW T
E Pwr (1/4" Headphone Jack)
Cue Logic -> R
I STEREO LINE F PGM P
Trim
CUE INPUT
L/R A SW L/R
N Balanced, +4 dBu, for Cueing a PC or Talkback
D SW U
stereo inputs Monitor (-10dBu, 1/8" Headphone Jack)
E AUD
Electronic Block Diagram
Selector out
P (RJ45) R SW Air in L
AIR MONITOR INPUT
T
AIR
U CUE (-10 dBu RCA phono)
SW R
S
L
T O
FET Pgm in LOGIC OUTPUT (15 pin D-sub)
PGM G [1] Control
1) RoomControlMute Logic (will switch
Room Pin 13 ground)
MutetoLogic
SW
CHANNEL 14 I [2] Autocue Logic In (switch to ground to turn on)
(for On Air light)
[3] Channel 13 Logic (+12VDC channel on, 0VDC channel off)
/
C
LOGIC D Stt/Stp [4] Channel Ch 2,3,4,5,13,15
2-7) 5 Logic (+12VDC channel on,On-off
0VDC channel
logic off)
C RS232 serial B Aud in
Channel 4 Logic
[5] 8) Talkback
(+12VDCaudio
channelto 0VDC channel off)
on,Studio
ON PGM AUD CUE AUD [6] Channel 3 Logic (+12VDC channel on, 0VDC channel off)
connection to PC 9 [7] Channel
9) 2 Logic Talkback
(+12VDCaudio
channelfrom Studio
on, 0VDC channel off)
6.6
H (9 pin D-SUB) Logic Logic Logic D [8] Channel 2 Cue on/off
(into CueLogic
bus)for Talk-back. M
B [9] Channel 15 Logic (+12VDC channel on, 0VDC channel off)
10) Autocue logic
[10] Studio Monitor Left Audio Output
(for TB)
A 1
C F PGM 5 [11] Studio
11) Monitor 2 Cue
Ch Right logic
Audio Outputfor TB O
PC PLAY / RECORD A SW Talkback audio
[12]12) Studio
from Monitor
Mic 1 and MicL 2out
O
N USB connection [13] Ground
D Play D [14]13)
+ 12 VDC Studio Monitor R out
N
to WINDOWS PC E E AUD Talkback Audio
[15]14) Input to Cue
+12VDC
N R Trim
(USB connector) C SW 15) Ground I
L
E CUE PGM
NOTE #1 SW PROGRAM OUTPUT- BALANCED T
Sum
if this option is installed but not (+4 dBu XLR)
L being used, internal jumpers can R
O
convert the input into a stan- Record Trim
S dard unbalanced, stereo, -10dBu, R
line input channel (RCA phono) L
PROGRAM OUTPUT- UNBALANCED I
Phone (-10dBu RCA phono)
CHANNEL 15 Mix R
Stt/Stp N
HYBRID LOGIC ON PGM AUD CUE PROGRAM MONO MIX OUTPUT
L+R
On-off (unbalanced, -10dBu, RCA phono) G
Logic Logic Logic
(RJ45) AUDITION MONO MIX OUTPUT
L+R
(unbalanced, -10dBu, RCA phono)
Trim F PGM
INPUT FROM A SW
L
PHONE HYBRID D
AUD AUDITION OUTPUT- UNBALANCED
balanced, mono E AUD Sum (-10dBu RCA phono)
R SW
(+4 dBu XLR) R
CUE
NOTE #2 SW Trim
if a phone hybrid is not used, this channel can be Talk to FET OUTPUT TO PHONE HYBRID
used as a standard mono channel with a balanced TALK
Caller SW (balanced, +4 dBu XLR)
+4dBu source
PL-PR-AL-AR-Q-TB
DC Cue CH 9 Air Mon Mono AUD PGM Phone Phone PGM PGM Phone Ch14 CH13 CH12 CH11 CH10 CH9 CH 8 48V Mic5 Mic4
Power In In In Out Out Out Out Logic Out Out (R) Out (L) In USB In In In In In In phntm In In
power
Ch 14 In
Unbal/USB
RS232 Logic LL RR USB Codec
Mute
Transistors Phone PGM Phone (PCM2900)
FET Sw PGM CH13 CH12 CH11 CH 10 CH9 CH 8
Out L out In
(CD4053) to VU Meter bd R out
Monitor
Out in VU housing Codec Mic 5 amp Mic4 amp
Output Channel Input Preamps (SSM2019) (SSM2019)
Phone Logic Filter 12MHz
Monitor Reed relays
USB Xstal
SW amp Codec
Mono AUD PGM REC IN & Transistors Note
Volume RS232 Cable Record CH13 CH12 CH 11 CH10 CH9 CH 8 All unmarked ICs
Control -12V Mix unbal unbal A P A P to 5 ch Expan Bd
Filter In In In In In In are NE5532 op amps
Cable
+12V Out Out Out
Monitor led Remote Logic
Conn led
Select CH 15 CH 14 CH 13 Cable CH12 CH 11 CH 10 CH 9 CH 8 CH 7 CH 6
FET Sw P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc
(CD4052) PGM (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049)
mix
Phone
amp A
SW amp
/ P
Headphone Q
Autocue Talk
Parts Layout (Fifteen Ch Main bd)
FET Sw
(CD4053) Phone Mix the Phone
Talkback channel
6.7
FET Sw with the Main
(CD4053) Output buses
-5V
Cue led Mon Sel Lgc
Speaker Dual ‘D’ flip flop
CH 15 CH 14 CH 13 CH 12 CH 11 CH 10 CH 9 CH 8 CH 7 CH 6
Amp (74AC74)
fader fader fader fader fader fader fader fader fader fader
(LM386)
AUD makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup
Air mix gain gain gain gain gain gain gain gain gain gain
Headphone amp amp amp amp amp amp amp amp amp amp amp
Amp
Left Pgm
(LM386)
Aud
Headphone
Amp Mon Sel Lgc CH 15 CH 14 CH 13 CH 12 CH 11 CH 10 CH 9 CH 8 CH 7 CH 6
Right Quad ‘AND’ gate On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc
(LM386) (74AC08) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049)
Pgm
Aud A
Cue
+5V / P
led Q
Mic Summing amps
Talkback CH 15 FET Sw CH 14 FET Sw CH13 FET Sw CH 12 FET Sw CH 11FET Sw CH 10 FET Sw CH 9 FET Sw CH 8 FET Sw CH 7 FET Sw CH 6 FET Sw
P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q
(CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053)
Parts Layout
Stereo Line Channel Inputs Mono Mic Channel Inputs
CH 7 CH 6 CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2 Mic 3 Mic 2 Mic 1
In In In In In In In In In
(5 ch Expansion bd)
Stereo Line Channel Input Preamps
CH 7 CH 6 CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2
In In In In In In
CN1 Mic 3 amp Mic 2 amp Mic 1 amp
Note (SSM2019) (SSM2019) (SSM2019)
All unmarked ICs
none none
are NE5532 op amps
mic jumper position mic jumper position
line jumper position line jumper position
CH 5 select CH 4 select CH 3 select CH 2 select
CN2
CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2 CH 1
P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc P-A-Q Lgc
(CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049)
CN3
CN1
1 Mic 1
2 +12VDC
3 Mic 2
4 -12VDC
5 Ground (audio)
6 Ground (audio) CN4 CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2 CH 1
7 +48VDC fader fader fader fader fader
8 +48VDC makeup makeup makeup makeup makeup
9 Ground (shield) gain gain gain gain gain
Add jumper
10 Ground (shield amp amp amp amp amp
to mute the CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2
channel Mute Mute Mute Mute
CN2
1 Ch 5 Start logic
CN5
2 nc CH 5 CH 4 CH 3 CH 2 CH 1
3 Ch 4 Start Logic On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc On Lgc
4 nc (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049) (CD4049)
5 Ch 3 Start logic
6 nc
7 Ch 2 Start logic
8 nc CN6
9 Ch 2 Cue Logic for TB to CR CH 5 FET Sw CH 4 FET Sw CH 3 FET Sw CH 2 FET Sw CH 1 FET Sw
10 P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q P-A-Q
nc
(CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053) (CD4053)
CN3 CN4 CN5 CN6

1 +12VDC 1 nc 1 nc 1 nc
2 Gorund (audio) 2 nc 2 nc 2 Mute logic
3 Ground (audio) 3 nc 3 nc 3 CR Mic to Hybrid talkback
4 Ground (audio) 4 nc 4 nc 4 Ground
5 CH1 L 5 +5VDC 5 +5VDC 5 CR MicTakback to Studio
6 nc 6 +5VDC 6 +5VDC 6 Cue
7 Ch 2 L 7 Ground 7 +14VDC 7 Aud L bus
8 Ch 1R 8 Gorund 8 +12VDC 8 Aud R bus
9 Autocue 9 -5VDC 9 Gorund 9 Pgm L bus
10 Ch 2R 10 -5VDC 10 Ground 10 Pgm R bus
6.8
Factory Service
Technical Questions
Arrakis Systems maintains a staff of friendly broadcast engineers, design engineers, and technicians who have many
years of in depth field experience in broadcasting. All of our technical resources are available to you to answer installa-
tion questions, solve problems, and repair equipment. If you have a question or problem, please feel free to call us. We
can not solve every problem, but our people are here to try.
Our customer support department is open from: 8AM - 4:30PM, Monday -Friday (except for Holidays)
Voice: 970-461-0730
Fax: 970-663-1010
email: consolesupport@arrakis-systems.com
IMPORTANT: Collect calls will not be accepted
Warranty Service Procedure for the ARC console hardware

Arrakis Systems assumes that its customers have on staff (or access to) competent technical personnel and adequate test equipment.
If a product fails, Arrakis will first seek to ascertain the problem over the phone and solve it at the modular replacement level where we find the specific
part(s) that have failed and repair or replace them. This is the least expensive and time consuming solution for you. Depending on the circumstances and at
our discretion, Arrakis will replace the specific PC board suspected to be at fault. If replacing PC boards does not resolve the problem, then the console is to
be returned to the factory where it will we repaired and returned to you. Repair time at the factory is normally two week days. If the customer chooses to
repair the console in the field, then Arrakis will, at its sole discretion, send replacement parts under warranty. Arrakis can not warranty labor performed in
the field.
Shipping- The customer is responsible for payment for shipping to the factory. Parts returned to the factory freight collect will be refused. Return shipping
over and above the cost of UPS ground will be born by the customer. In the case of international shipments, all cost of shipping and duties are born by the
customer, both to and from the factory.
Under no circumstances will Arrakis replace a defective console with a replacement console.
IMPORTANT- Under no circumstances does Arrakis take any responsibility for non-factory technical expenses.
6.9
Factory Service (continued)
Warranty Replacement of Parts

To have a part replaced under warranty, you must:
1) Provide a valid product serial number that is within the warranty period
2) Contact the Arrakis customer service department and describe what parts need replacement and the circumstances of the
failure. (The customer service department may require on site test by your technician to confirm the part replacement is appro-
priate for your problem.)
3) A Return Merchandise Authorization Number (RMA #) will be issued when a part s to be returned to the factory.
4) Return ALL defective parts to the factory (shipping prepaid) to the attention of the “Customer Service Departent” with a letter
including your name, address, call letters, serial number, date, and valid RMA #.
5) Parts replaced under warranty will be shipped at Arrakis expense by UPS ground. Any expense over and above UPS ground will
be born by the customer.
IMPORTANT- If the defective parts are not returned to the factory within 30 days, you will be invoiced for them and it will be
assumed that they do not fall under warranty. Further customer service will be denied until the defective parts are returned of
paid for.
Spare Parts (not provided with the ARC-15 console)

A spare parts kit may be provided with the console. These parts are provided in case of emergency failure and normal infant mor-
tality. These parts, when used to replace failures, are not replaced under warranty.
Purchased Parts
An Arrakis customer may purchase spare or replacement parts from the factory. The cost of the parts will include a service
charge, the cost for the parts, and the cost of the shipping.
Parts may be purchased by:

1) C.O.D. shipping
2) Valid and approved Credit Card (below our current credit limit)
3) Prepaid by company check (shipment after check clears the bank)
4) Wire transfer of funds
5) Through an Arrakis authorized dealer
Arrakis does not sell items on open account.
IMPORTANT- Non payment or late payment for parts will result in refusal of further customer service until the problem is
resolved.
6.10
BLUETOOTH
BLUETOOTH
7.0
BLUETOOTH
Congratulations on your purchase of an ARC

series console. One possible feature with your
console is the Bluetooth channel. This section of
the manual will assist with the operation of the
Bluetooth feature.
Bluetooth is an optional feature for the ARC

series consoles (ARC-8, ARC-10 series & ARC-15).
The Part number in the order will specify ‘blue’ at
the end, if you have purchased a Bluetooth ver-
sion. For example, the ARC-10BP-blue has
Bluetooth, but the ARC-10BP does not.
On your ARC console, you will notice your

Bluetooth controls on the left side of the meter
panel. The antenna is located on the top of the
meter panel.
Bluetooth audio will play out the Bluetooth channel (CH 7 for ARC-8, CH 10 for ARC-10, CH 15 for ARC-15). This is the phone hybrid channel, and
may alternatively be used with your phone hybrid. The phone and Bluetooth audio sums into this channel.
OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO PAIR
To connect your cell phone, tablet, or Bluetooth device to the console:
1. Power up your ARC console. If already powered on, then leave the console on.
2. Press and hold the green Call button for exactly 5 seconds, and then release. You will hear a beep on the Bluetooth channel.
3. You will notice the red Drop button will now blink on your console. This means it is ready to connect. In your cell phone, tablet, or other
device, turn on the Bluetooth option. You will have 10 minutes to pair. After the 10 minutes, it will still flash, but you will need to start back at
step 1 to pair.
4. In your device settings, select Search for devices. This step is different depending on the device you are connecting.
5. Your device should find ARRAKIS 1.X (X = the firmware version). Select to connect.
6. Now that your device is paired, the red Drop button should now be constant lit.
7. After your device is paired, you will only need to reconnect within your device. It is as simple as finding the Bluetooth device and select the
option to Connect.
7.1
BLUETOOTH
HOW TO CONNECT TO AN ANDROID DEVICE

Here‘s an example using an Android cell phone:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Turn on the Bluetooth feature.
3. Select Search for devices.
4. Find and select the ARRAKIS 1.1

(firmware number may be different)
5. It will now pair with the ARC

console.
These steps will vary based on the manufacturer of your device. Please see the device instructions on how to connect to a
Bluetooth device (your ARC series console).
7.2
BLUETOOTH
7.3
BLUETOOTH
HOW TO CONNECT AND USE A CELL PHONE

The Bluetooth feature of the ARC series console allows you connect
your cell phone to the ARC series console. Thus, enabling you to take
calls on your cell phone and either put them on air, or play them on
the Cue output. To do this:
1. Pair your cell phone to the Bluetooth ARC console using
the steps from the previous section. The red Drop button
will be lit if your cell phone is connected.
2. Turn on the Bluetooth channel on your board. (CH 7 for
the ARC-8, CH 10 for the ARC-10, CH 15 for the ARC-15)
3. Turn on the Bluetooth Channel to play out PGM out.
4. When a call comes in on your cell phone, you will notice
that the green Call button will flash. Press the blue Call but
ton to accept the call. Press the red Drop button to reject
(clear) the call.
5. When you are finished with the call, press the blue Drop
button to end the call. You may also accept, reject or drop
the call using your cell phone.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When talking to the caller, you will be using the Mic channel on the console (NOT your cell phone mic). When a Mic chan-
nel is on, then the Monitor speakers will be muted, and you will only be able to hear the caller through the Headphone output. You may
also adjust the volume of your caller on your phone, as well as on the console’s Bluetooth channel.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When a call comes in to your cell phone, the ring will play through the Bluetooth channel. For the best quality sound, we
recommend to leave the Bluetooth channel on the AUD output for when the call comes in. That way the ring will not play over the air. You
can then prepare the caller, and when ready, switch the channel to PGM to put the caller on air.
7.4
BLUETOOTH
HOW TO STREAM AUDIO

The Bluetooth feature for the ARC series console allows you
to play music or audio from a Bluetooth enabled device,
such as a Tablet, MP3 player, or recorder. To stream audio:
1. Pair your device using the instructions from the
first section, HOW TO PAIR. The red Drop button
will now be lit if your device is connected.
2. Any audio played from your device will now play
out the Bluetooth channel on the console. The red
Drop and green Call buttons do not control any
tasks for playing media. You may control the audio
volume from your device (tablet, MP3 player,
phone, etc...) or from the Bluetooth channel on the
console.
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is strongly recommended that you do not use a cell phone to stream music over the air. If a call comes in on your
phone, it will interrupt what is currently playing and will ring over the air. It is recommended to use a Tablet, or MP3 player to stream
music, so that there isn‘t a possibility of interruption.
HOW TO UNPAIR AND PUT INTO PAIRING MODE

The Bluetooth feature for the ARC series console can only connect to one Bluetooth device at a time. This prevents the possibility of a
second device accidentally connecting and putting unintentional audio over the air. To unpair a connected device, and then pair a different
device:
1. The first option is to find the ARRAKIS 1.X. on your device and select to unpair within your device. More instructions can be
found in your device manual.
2. Another method is to press and hold the green Call button for exactly 5 seconds and then release. This will take whatever
device that was connected, and place it into Pairing mode. Follow the steps from the first section, HOW TO PAIR, to then pair a
new device.
As a security feature, your ARC Bluetooth console is only Pairable for a set amount of time. If you search for devices when trying to Pair,
and don’t find the ARRAKIS 1.X., then you may have to press the blue Call button for 5 seconds to put it into Pair mode.
7.5
BLUETOOTH
RENAME A BLUETOOTH ARC CONSOLE ON YOUR DEVICE

If you have multiple Bluetooth ARC consoles, then it may be necessary to rename the ARRAKIS 1.X. for easier identification.
This way it will be easier to identify which Bluetooth console is which. You may accomplish this on your Bluetooth device.
Here‘s an example using an Android device:
1. Go into settings.
2. Select the Bluetooth settings.
3. Select the settings for the ARRAKIS 1.1.
4. Select the Rename option.
5. Change the name for the device.
7.6
BLUETOOTH
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
HOW TO PAIR YOUR DEVICE

1. Press and hold the green Call button for 5 seconds to put into Pair mode. You have 10 minutes to connect.
2. Search for ARRAKIS 1.X. and connect.
CELL PHONE MODE

Call (green) button (quick press) – Accepts call when call is coming in.
Drop (red) button (quick press) – Rejects call when call is coming in.
Drop (red) button (quick press) – Ends call if call has been taken.
INACTIVE MODE
Call (green) button (5 second hold) – Set to Pair mode.
BUTTON LIGHTING STATES

Flashing Red – No device connected, ready to Pair.
Solid Red – Device connected, no audio playing from device.
Flashing Green – A call is coming in on your device.
Solid Green – Audio is playing out your Bluetooth device.
ANTENNA RANGE = 25 feet, direct line of sight to antenna.
7.7
BLUETOOTH
TROUBLESHOOTING & TIPS
TROUBLE PAIRING A DEVICE

If you are having trouble pairing a device. Try these steps:
1. Power down, and then power up your ARC console.
2. Press and hold the green Call button for exactly 5 seconds, and then release. You will hear a beep on the Bluetooth channel.
3. You will notice the red Drop button will now blink on your console. This means it is ready to connect. In your cell phone, tablet, or
other device, turn on the Bluetooth option. You will have 10 minutes to pair. After the 10 minutes, it will still flash, but you will need to
start back at step 1 to pair.
4. In your device settings, select Search for devices. This step is different depending on the device you are connecting.
5. Your device should find ARRAKIS 1.X (X = the firmware version). Select to connect.
6. Now that your device is paired, the red Drop button should now be constant lit.
USEFUL TIPS
*It is always recommended to have only one device connected at a time. If your station will be consistently changing con-
nected devices, then it is recommended to unpair the device when you are done using it. That way it will be easier for the next user to
pair and connect their different device.
**As a note, not all devices will have full Bluetooth functionality. Some phones may connect for calls, but not be able to stream music,
and vice versa.
***If your studio is only using one device, then it isn‘t necessary to pair and re-pair the device every time you are using it. Rather, it
is more effective to connect (if not already connected) directly from the device’s menu.
7.8

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RA DIO CON S OLE P RODUCTS

Thank you from Arrakis Systems inc.

Telephone Support for the ‘Free’ APEX-Live software

How to contact Arrakis Systems

Arrakis Systems inc. is located at Arrakis Systems inc

Business Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm mountain time

Contact: Voice: 970-461-0730

Having difficulty contacting Arrakis?

Hazard / Warning Label

WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD - DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT

WARNING : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,

The Exclamation Point symbol, within an equilateral

The Lightning Flash With Arrowhead symbol, within an

WARNING —This equipment generates, uses and can

Software End User License Agreement

Section One Introduction

Section Two Product Description

Section Three Operation Instructions

Section Four Installation Instructions

Section Five APEX-Live for the ARC-15

Section Six Service and Maintenance

Section Seven Bluetooth (optional feature)

1-5 Mic channels Phone channel

Studio Monitor Audio Output & Control

Telephone Channel for Live On Air Talk or Off-line Contests

Built-in PC sound card on Channel14 for Play & Record

To contact one of our support agents, please email:

Back panel for ARC-15

On Air Light Logic: open collector transister

Arrakis Systems inc.

ARC-15 Arrakis Systems inc.

Arrakis Systems Monitor

VU Meters Cue speaker & Volume

1-5 Mic channels Phone channel

Mono mic level Input Channel (channel 1)

CHANNEL ON AND OFF

CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC

PROGRAM AND AUDITION BUS ASSIGNMENT

Mono mic level Input Channel (channel2-5)

CHANNEL ON AND OFF

CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC

PROGRAM AND AUDITION BUS ASSIGNMENT

CHANNELS 2-5 ARE SELECTABLE AS MONO

Stereo Line Level Input Channels

CHANNEL ON AND OFF

CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC

PROGRAM AND AUDITION BUS ASSIGNMENT

CHANNELS 6-13 ARE CHANNEL 14 IS

The Telephone Input Channel (channel 15)

CHANNEL ON AND OFF

CHANNEL ON AND OFF LOGIC (Hybrid control)

PROGRAM AND AUDITION BUS ASSIGNMENT

HYBRID AUDIO FEED

TALKING TO THE CALLER (off line)

LISTENING TO THE CALLER (off line)

Push the CUE button to listen

Turning the channel On and Off

The Control Room Monitor system

MONITOR SELECTOR SWITCH