Audio Common and Chassis Ground wires are connected to grounding lugs on the rear
of the console. A single ground wire (#2 or larger) should be run from the console ground
lugs to a good earth ground, such as a metal grounding rod driven at least 10 feet into
the soil. Sand, mica or crushed rock do not make satisfactory grounds. The console
should be isolated from the power line ground.
If a reliable grounding rod system is impossible, a cold water pipe or a steel support that
has continuity with ground may be used as a last resort. Do not use metal 2x4 studs
within a wall or ceiling for this purpose.
It is important that local electrical codes and electrical safety regulations be followed when
planning the ground system of an installation. Contact your Otari representative or
technical consultant for assistance in the design and execution of an appropriate
grounding system.
■ Microphone Shields
The shields on all microphone lines must be connected at both ends of the cable. This
assures shielding continuity from the console to the microphone in the studio. Since
most microphones are not otherwise connected to the electrical system, there is no
danger of a ground loop occurring. Additionally, 48 Volt phantom power will not work
without the microphone shield in place, as this shield is used as the return for the 48 Volt
supply to the microphone. It is important that microphone connectors mounted on wall
panels do not connect the shield to a metal panel or any other connection to ground.
■ Line Level Audio Input/Output Shields
In order for a shield to be effective at high frequencies (RF), it must be connected to
ground at both ends. If, however, shields are connected at both ends in a complicated
installation, ground loops (alternate DC paths to ground) may occur causing hum and
other noise in the system. If shields are connected at one end only, they can become
antennas to RF. A good compromise is to connect one end of a cable’s shield directly to
ground and the other end through a .068 uF capacitor to ground. This effectively
provides a connection to ground at both ends at high frequencies but does not provide a
DC ground at both ends of the cable at audio frequencies. This method reduces the
tendency of the shield to act as an antenna to RF while eliminating the possibility of
ground loops.
2.3 Uncrating
All STATUS 18R consoles are shipped in a wood and cardboard crate. The console
comes completely assembled without optional legs installed.
Upon delivery of the STATUS 18R and before signing the shipping company’s
acceptance form, inspect the shipping crate for signs of any external damage. If damage
is found, it should be noted on the shipment documents and the shipping company
contacted about their rules concerning concealed damage.
To unpack the console, remove the top of the crate. This will expose the face of the
console. Carefully remove the front, sides, and back of the crate. The power supplies
and other accessories are packed beneath the console.
Shipping brackets are bolted to the console where the optional legs are attached. The
brackets are fastened to the crate with rubber pucks to protect the console from shocks
during shipping. Unfasten the brackets from the crate and remove the console with
brackets attached.
We recommend that the crate and all packing materials be retained until proper
operation of the system has been established. The following items, unless shipped in
advance, should be found:
• Power Supplies
• Power Supply interface cables
• Installation Kit
• Owners Manual (This book)
• Optional Console Legs
STATUS 18R Operation and Maintenance Manual Section 2 - Installation
August 1999 2 - 3