[BC] Arbitron

[John Johnson]

We went a slightly different route with our install, I put audio 
switches (Broadcast Tools SMIII +)  between the main and back-up 
encoders.  We use the alarm output of the encoder monitor to switch 
between the main and back-up encoders, although we can do it manually or 
potentially w/ remote control.  The main thing for me is that the 
switching happens automatically and immediately should an encoder fail.

We have found that the encoders are very sensitive to audio input 
levels.  They have to be relatively loud and consistent, which for 
classical or talk (and some jazz and blues) can get a little dicey.  
Although the encoder will alarm on the front panel well before the 
monitor if the audio levels aren't quite up to snuff.

JOhn

John Johnson
WDUQ
Pittsburgh, PA

Gary Zocolo wrote:
> It also seems non-accommodating that the encoders are not "remote control 
> friendly". The only way to remote switch from the main to the aux encoder is 
> to power one down and power the other up. Its an easy 1 relay project, or 
> the Henry Box will work, but it could have been done with closures if they 
> had a little forethought or broadcaster input on the design.
>
> The encode confidence detectors do provide an alarm closure output if your 
> encoder stops. To automate notification if you stop detecting the encode, 
> you will need a device (remote control or other) to sense the failure and 
> notify by bells, strobes, or a call out....or all of those in my case. It is 
> nice to see the green "encoding" lights on all of them though. Our encode 
> monitors are at our studios.
>
> Someone said to me....if you stop encoding, you may as well turn the 
> transmitter off. While I do not subscribe to that line of thought, it is a 
> valid and demonstration of how important accurate and consistent 
> non-interrupted encoding is to the people who hang their career hats on the 
> results of these boxes.
>
> Gary Zocolo
> Cleveland
>
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Scott" <sluse at lapantera940.com>
>
>   
>> Anyone setting up or using Arbitron PPM, I need to get 3 stations ready.
>> Scott O. Luse
>> KWBY/KSND/KCKX Radio
>>
>>     
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