Dolby Laboratories DP569 - Manual (Page 13)

Model DP569 User’s Manual
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Chapter 1
Introduction
The Dolby DP569 is the reference Dolby Digital multichannel audio encoder. It
supports encoded bit rates from 56 to 640 kbps and channel configurations from
mono to 5.1-channel surround sound. The DP569 is intended for digital TV, cable,
and disc authoring applications, including automated broadcast installations and
mastering for DVD and other recorded media.
The DP569 provides three pairs of AES3 digital audio inputs and a single AES3
output. A separate AES3 input may be used for a clock reference signal. Previously
encoded Dolby Digital audio bitstreams pass through unchanged—automatically, if
the DP569’s bitstream detection feature is activated. Matrix encoding on Dolby
Surround input signals also remains unaffected.
EBU/SMPTE LTC and VITC timecode inputs make it possible to start and stop the
encoder accurately to create separate program segments and soundtrack files for disc
authoring. The DP569 can also derive the time stamps required for A/V synchronization.
The DP569 supports all metadata parameters, including the flag to indicate material
encoded in Dolby Digital Surround EX. An automatic data rate setting allows the output
data rate to follow the number of encoded channels dynamically for broadcast
applications.
The rear-panel Metadata connector provides external metadata input from other
Dolby products (such as a Dolby E decoder). Two additional connectors are provided
for general-purpose I/O signals, including status and control signals. Fault-monitoring
circuits warn of actual or potential system failure, and bypass connections enable a
hot-standby mode for broadcast installations.
The DP569’s front panel features an alphanumeric display showing status parameters
and tri-color LEDs indicating channel activity. Controls include an elastomeric
keypad for menu navigation and preset recall. Front- and rear-panel serial interfaces,
along with supplied application software, make it possible to configure and control
the DP569 from Windows 95/98/2000/NT-equipped PCs or other remote devices.