Matrix - 15kHz ISDN, PSTN and GSM Digital Audio Codec

Matrix Portable and Rackmount

The Comrex Matrix provides both ISDN and PSTN full duplex links of 15kHz, and interfaces to the cellular network to provide enhanced audio quality via a mobile phone connection. Fully compatible with all modes of the Vector and HotLine PSTN codecs, the Matrix provides a two-channel audio input mixer with additional tape input, comprehensive call handling and automatic interfacing to Matrix, Vector and HotLine codecs.

The Matrix accepts a plug-in ISDN module that provides three options for getting audio to and from a remote location via ISDN: Industry-standard G.722 on a single bearer; ISO/MPEG Layer III 15kHz bandwidth audio (also on a single bearer); and Comrex Turbo G.722 on two bearers, giving 15kHz full duplex audio with just a 6ms delay.

The Matrix can either connect directly to a suitable cellular telephone but also accepts a plug-in interface for a PCMCIA modem for a GSM mobile phone, over which it can send and receive surprisingly good audio quality via the cellular phone network. Being a plug-in module, the Matrix will be able to take advantage of new developments in cellular services as and when they become available, preserving the value of your investment.

With ultra low bit-rate algorithm broadcast at 15KHz over GSM - With the new GSM plug in module you can enjoy 10KHz on 9.6kbps or 15KHz on 14.4kbps. The module is the same size as the ISDN module, so all you you need to do is just pop the SIM into the slot of the module.

Matrix Portable - Side View of Phone Jacks

If you’ve got a Matrix, you’ve got options!

The Matrix is designed to accept optional modules which turn the powerful coding engine of the unit into a "future proof" investment. In the portable Matrix, the sturdy module is easily inserted into a channel in the base of the unit. The rackmount Matrix provides room within its 1U housing to accommodate an optional board which connects to the main board with a simple jumper cable. The Matrix’s fluid design, along with flash upgrade capability, allows virtually infinite potential as new circuits become available.

The ISDN Module

The ISDN module transforms the Matrix into a lightweight yet powerful ISDN codec with integrated terminal adapter. The codec engine includes 3 different algorithms. ISO/MPEG Layer III and G.722 are implemented for maximum industry compatibility, and Turbo G.722 yields 15 kHz, very low delay audio transmission. The terminal adapter is designed to work with virtually all international ISDN switch protocols and is available with either an "S/T" or a "U" interface.

GSM Operation

The Matrix provides an interface to GSM wireless phones and improves the quality of these feeds. The unit has a data port into which a GSM phone with an integrated modem may be connected.

Matrix Portable - Side View of Audio Connectors

TelCell Module

The TelCell module connects to the Matrix Portable Codec adding the ability to send and receive audio through the handsfree port of many mobile phones or standard telephone lines.

Although this module does not add any audio enhancement to the wireless or land line phone call, it makes a useful back-up tool. Adding professional microphones will often improve audio quality. Calls can be placed to regular telephone hybrids with this module (no Matrix is required on the receiving end of the call).

The Battery Kit

The battery kit includes a NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) battery, a charger and mounting bracket. The battery may be used as a primary power source to run the unit for up to 7 hours, or it can be used as an optional backup should AC power be interrupted during a broadcast.

Matrix Module Drawing

The Audio Interface

The Matrix includes two mic inputs (one is mic/line switchable), one headphone output and one line level output on XLR, providing direct connection to mics and headphones or a mixer. An additional -10 dbu tape input allows connection to a minidisc or DAT player.

Phone Line Features

The Matrix adds several utilities which aid in ease of use and reliability on difficult phone lines. The unit automatically detects the optimal data rate and delivers the best audio possible. A MaxRate (Maximum Data Rate) can be set prior to connection, giving further assurance of stability. A quick rate drop feature sets a new MaxRate for reliability with only a 2 second loss of audio. Renegotiation can be disabled, preventing drop outs at inconvenient times. A quick rate drop or a full renegotiation can be performed at any chosen time by pressing a single button at either end of the call. Error correction is available. And even at 14.4 kb/s, the Matrix will deliver 7 kHz audio (see frequency response chart on page 4). Comrex has implemented every tool possible to aid you in delivering a seamless and uninterrupted broadcast.

Specifications
Connections
Matrix Portable Audio In: 3-pin XLR female (2)
Tape In: 1/8" 2-conductor mini-jack (1)
Audio Out: 3-pin XLR male (1)
Headphone Out: 1/4" stereo phone jack (1)
Tel Line and Tel Set: RJ11C 6-pin modular jacks (2)
Contact Closures: 1/8" 2-conductor mini-jacks (2)
Auxiliary Data Port: DB-9 connector (1)
Accessory Connection: 25-pin D connector (1)
Matrix Rackmount Audio in: 3-pin XLR female (1)
Audio out: 3-pin XLR male (1)
Tel Line and Tel Set: RJ11C 6-pin modular jacks (2)
Contact Closures: 1/8" 2-conductor mini-jacks (4)
Multipurpose Port: 9-pin D connector (1)
Audio Input Levels:
Matrix Portable Mic Input: -85 to -40 dBu
Line Input: -10 to +10 dBu
Tape Input: -10 dBu (fixed) @ 10K ohms
Matrix Rackmount Audio Input: -10, 0, +4 dBu (via jumpers to +8) @ 20K ohms
Audio Output Levels:
Matrix Portable Line Level Out: +12 dBu maximum @100 ohms
Headphone Out: .5 watt
Telephone Line Out: -9 dBu @600 ohms
Matrix Rackmount Audio Output: -10, 0, +4 dBu (via jumpers to +8) @ 100 ohms
Telephone Line Out: -9 dBm @ 600 ohms
Power:
Matrix Portable External Supply: 24 V
Matrix Rackmount Internal supply: 120/240 VAC 60/50 Hz
Size:
Matrix Portable 9.5" W x 10" D x 3.5" H
Matrix Rackmount 1U Rack: 19" W x 8" D x 1.75" H
Weight:
Matrix Portable 2.5 lbs
Matrix Rackmount 5.5 lbs
Audio Frequency Response:
POTS/GSM Codec
9.6 5 kHz
12 6 kHz
14.4 7 kHz
16.8 7 kHz
19.2 11 kHz
21.6 12 kHz
24 15 kHz
26.4 15 kHz
28.8 15 kHz
31.2 15 kHz
33.6 15 kHz
Coding Delay 100 mS
ISDN Codec Accessory
Data Rate (kb/s) G.722 Turbo G.722 ISO/MPEG Layer III
56/64 7.5 kHz. n/a 15 kHz
112/128 n/a 15 kHz n/a
Coding Delay 6 mS 6 mS 300 mS