Inovonics 514

The Inovonics 514 FM Multiplex Decoder, or INOmini 514, is a standalone decoder designed specifically for FM-stereo multiplex signals. It takes a demodulated FM-baseband input and decodes it into discrete left and right channel audio. Here’s a breakdown of its features and specifications:

Features:

1. Stereo Decoding: Decodes Composite/MPX signal into L/R audio.
2. Multiple Output Options: Provides analog L/R and AES-digital program line outputs.
3. Accurate Metering: Front-panel metering for precise monitoring.
4. Front-Panel Alarms: Alarms on the front panel with rear-panel ‘tallies’ for program Audio Loss (silence sense) and stereo Pilot Loss (stereo/mono status).
5. De-emphasis Curves: Selectable de-emphasis curves for professional applications.
6. Forced-Mono Operation: Can be enabled with a push-on jumper under the top cover.
7. Headphone Jack: 3.5mm (TRS) headphone jack for monitoring with fixed listening level.

Specifications:

1. Multiplex (MPX) Input: Unbalanced/bridging (BNC); 10k input impedance; requires 0.5V p-p minimum signal.
2. L/R Analog Line Outputs: Active-balanced (XLR), +4dBu output at ‘0dB’ on front-panel meter.
3. AES Digital Output: Transformer-balanced (XLR), 44.1kHz sampling rate; –6dBFS output at ‘0dB’ on front-panel meter.
4. Program Audio De-Emphasis: Selectable between 75μs/50μs.
5. Audio Frequency Response: ±0.5dB, 20Hz to 15kHz following selected de-emphasis characteristic.
6. Noise: ≥72dB for MONO (analog/digital), ≥70dB for STEREO (analog/digital).
7. Distortion: ≤0.05% THD, 20Hz to 15kHz (analog/digital).
8. Stereo Separation: 50dB 20Hz to 15kHz (analog/digital).
9. Alarm Tallies: Individual open-collector NPN transistor outputs for Program Audio Loss and Pilot Loss.
10. Power Requirement: 12VDC at 230mA, provided with a switching-type power supply.
11. Mounting Options: Can be rack-mounted with an optional rack adapter or fastened to any surface with screws.
12. Size and Weight: 1.6”H x 5.5”W x 5.5”D; 4 lbs. shipping weight.
13. Environmental: Designed for continuous operation within specified ambient temperature, humidity, and altitude ranges.

The INOmini 514 is a versatile decoder suitable for professional applications where accurate decoding and monitoring of FM-stereo multiplex signals are required. Its compact design and comprehensive feature set make it a valuable tool in broadcasting and audio production environments.