Media Control Systems

CTD-3104A
Operation Guide
P/N. 950-0028-00 Version 1.9

Media Control Systems

1050 Pioneer Way, Suite Q
El Cajon, CA 92020
Ph. 619-599-1050 Fax 619-599-1051
www.mediacontrolsystems.com
 Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................ 2
1.1 Important Notice.................................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Module Description................................................................................................................ 2
1.3 Module Applications.............................................................................................................. 2
Chapter 2 Installation........................................................................................................................ 3
2.1 Initial Inspection .................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Installation Requirements..................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Installation Procedure ........................................................................................................... 3
2-1 Using the CTD-3104A as a pulse-shaper. ............................................................................ 4
Chapter 3 Operation .......................................................................................................................... 4
3-1. Controls and Indicators ....................................................................................................... 4
Figure 3-1. CTD-3104A Internal Parts Placement ................................................................... 6
3-2. Start-up Procedure............................................................................................................... 7
3-3. Program Switch Configuration ........................................................................................... 7
3-4. Pre-selecting the Digits to be Decoded................................................................................ 7
3-5. Audio Level Adjustment ...................................................................................................... 9
3-6. Changing the Standard Fourth digit ................................................................................ 10
3-7. Terminating Input Audio.................................................................................................. 10
Chapter 4 THEORY OF OPERATION.......................................................................................... 11
4-1. DTMF Tones ....................................................................................................................... 11
4-2. CTD-3104A Description..................................................................................................... 13
Chapter 5 MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................... 15
5-1. Periodic Maintenance......................................................................................................... 15
5-2. Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................. 15
5-3. Corrective Maintenance.................................................................................................... 16
6.0 Typical Wiring Configurations.......................................................................................... 17
Limited Warranty............................................................................................................................. 18
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Important Notice

Like any other piece of complex equipment, the CTD-3104A Cue Tone Decoder Module will
perform as designed only if it is installed, used, and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.

All individuals who have, or will have the responsibility for installing, using, and servicing the
product must carefully read this manual.

The warranties made by Media Control Systems, with respect to this product are void if the
equipment is not installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the instructions in this
manual. Please protect you and your employees by following these instructions.

1.2 Module Description

The CTD-3104A DTMF Tone Decoder module is designed to monitor a telephone line or audio
source and provide a relay closure upon receipt of up to four DTMF (dual-tone, multi-frequency)
tone pairs of a pre-determined numerical sequence. These tones are identical to, and compatible
with, the standard telephone tone system. It is configured as a standard 3000 series module and is
designed to occupy one module space in either a CMF-3000B 3.5” by 19” rack mount frame or a
CMF-1000A 1.75” by 19” rack mount frame.

The module is approximately 6.25” x 1.25” x 3.5” (L x W x H). All connections to the module are
made by means of a 20-pin card-edge connector which mates with the circuit board. All controls
and indicators required for normal operation are mounted on the front panel of the module.

1.3 Module Applications

Although engineered primarily for use in high-speed multi-digit tone decoding applications, such
as switching control of satellite delivered pay TV broadcasting, the reliability and flexible
arrangement of the CTD-3104A allows its use in many remote control applications. A
programming switch is provided on the card for selection of the number of digits it will decode and
the type of output closure it will provide after a valid signal has been received. This feature allows
the decoder to be easily configured for most control requirements.

In applications which require many control functions to be performed from remote locations,
several CTD-3104A modules, each preset for a different code, can be connected to the same audio
(tone) input line. The relay output of each module would be wired to perform a specific function.
When several modules are interfaced to a telephone line in this manner, for example, the system
could be dialed-up from a remote location and any (or all) of the codes could be transmitted to
perform the desired functions (i.e. turn lights on and off, switch signals, or control virtually any
piece of equipment requiring a standard GPI).

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CHAPTER 2 INSTALLATION

This Section provides instructions on unpacking and inspecting the module, mounting it and
making electrical connections. Note that if the module is purchased as part of a custom engineered
system, it will already be installed. If it is purchased separately, the module must be installed
according to the instructions given in this section.

2.1 Initial Inspection

Examine the shipping container for signs of damage which may have occurred in transit. Carefully
inspect the components for damage. If damage to the equipment or a shortage in the shipment is
noted, notify the carrier promptly. Make the proper claim with the carrier and contact Media
Control Systems immediately.

2.2 Installation Requirements

The CTD-3104A Tone Decoder module is normally provided as part of a factory assembled control
system and no installation of the module is required. However, when ordered individually, it must
be mounted by the purchaser in a Media Control Systems CMF-3000B, or CMF-1000A Mounting
Frame. The CTD-3104A module is supplied with a mating 20-pin card-edge connector (J1) and a
rectangular aluminum frame adapter. Mounted on the frame adapter is a 12 pin Phoenix connector,
which provides a means of interfacing external signals to the inputs and outputs of the decoder
modules.

2.3 Installation Procedure

NOTE: If the CTD-3104A has been purchased as a replacement for an existing CTD-3004A or
CTD-3002A module, installation consists merely of replacing the old module with the new. All
card edge connections are compatible.

First-time installation of the CTD-3104A module consists of securing the frame adapter to the pre-
drilled rear mounting rails of the CMF-3000B with the screws provided and wiring the connectors
and power. The module requires regulated +12 VDC at 75 MA (maximum) for proper operation
with ultra-high-speed 4-digit tone groups; this power is normally supplied by a model RPS-3002A
power supply module which is also mounted in the CMF-3000B Frame. For slower-speed, less
demanding applications, excellent performance can be attained with any well filtered DC power
source of 8 to 14 volts.

Table 2-1 lists the wiring connections required for the CTD-3104A and also describes the function
of each. When wiring, use 24 gauge or larger insulated copper wire, either solid or stranded and a
good grade of resin-core solder. Keep all leads as short as possible and maintain a good air-gap
between all analog signal leads. If desired, any leads not carrying audio, video or tones may be
bundled and tied with waxed lacing cord or plastic wire ties.

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 Table 2-1

Edge Connector Pin Out

A Ground 1 Ground
B Logic Input (+12vdc relay on, 2.5vdc relay off) 2 No Connection
C +12vdc input at 80mA 3 No Connection
D Output Relay K1 )Form A) N.O. 4 No Connection
E Output Relay K1 (Form C) N.O. 5 No Connection
F Set Line (Sets CTD to ON state) 6 No Connection
H Reset line (Resets CTD to normal state) 7 Output Relay K1 (Form C) N.C.
J Output K1 (Form A) Common 8 Lo-Z tone input, 600 ohms
K Output K1 (FormC) Common 9 Hi-Z tone input 50K ohms
L Ground 10 Ground

2-1 Using the CTD-3104A as a pulse-shaper.

Later versions of the CTD-3104A incorporate a jumper plug (J3) and a driver transistor (Q2) to
facilitate operation of the module from contact closure or low-going logic-level pulses supplied by
some outboard equipment such as stereo processors. See Figure 3-1.

With jumper plug J3 connected, a 0 vdc (ground) signal or low-going (ground) pulse applied to the
high-impedance audio input (edge connector Pin 9) will actuate the module relay output. The relay
outputs will remain energized ONLY as long as the input remains at a 0 VDC (ground) level.

CHAPTER 3 OPERATION

This section describes the operation of the indicators on the front panel of the module. In addition,
it provides instructions on how to configure the module and perform initial adjustments.

3-1. Controls and Indicators

LED indicators are provided on the front panel of the CTD-3104A which indicate the status of
virtually all important functions of the module. Adjacent to each indicator is a label that identifies
it functionally. A list of these indicators and their related functions is contained in Table 3-1.

There are no normal operating controls on the CTD-3104A module.

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 Table 3-1. CTD-3104A Front Panel Indicators

CTD-3104A Front Panel Indicators

Indicator Function
ON REC'D Lights to indicate receipt of a valid "ON" tone group. May not
light if "momentary" operation is selected on internal
programming switch. Internal switch may also be used to
cause ON REC'D indicator to light on every other valid tone
group.
DIGIT 1
DIGIT 2 Lights to indicate receipt in proper sequence of each digit in
DIGIT 3 preset tone group. (See Note below)
DIGIT 4
TONE Flashes to indicate receipt of audio with peak levels in excess
of 2.1 volts peak-to-peak. Steady ON indication signifies audio
levels in excess of normal operating range.

NOTE: A DTMF digit is composed of a high group (high frequency) tone and a low group
(lower frequency) tone, which occur simultaneously when a correct digit is transmitted. As a valid
digit is being received, none of the DIGIT indicators will light. As the trailing edge or end of
receipt of a valid digit occurs, the appropriate indicator will light. The digits must be received in
proper order and within one second of each other. When a DIGIT indicator is ON and the next digit
of the sequence is not received within 1 second, OR if an improper digit is received in the sequence
(i.e.: 611* instead of 601*), the digit counter will automatically assume an invalid code and
RESET. Therefore, the maximum time a DIGIT indicator will be ON is one second, with the
minimum time being determined by the speed at which the tones are received.

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 Figure 3-1. CTD-3104A Internal Parts Placement

10-Bit Programming
Switch Digit-4 (ON) normally wired
Bits ON for * (Star). Optional Digit-4
Card Edge
Bits OFF Switch can be provided.
Connector

Digit-1 Digit-2 Digit-3

J-3

Bit-1 Bit-2 Bit-3 Bit-4

Digit-4 (OFF) normally

Bits ON wired for # (Pound).
Bits OFF Optional Digit-4 Switch can
Hi-Z Audio 600 ohm Audio
Termination Termination be provided.
Resistor Resistor

Optional audio input termination resistors

(not provided)

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3-2. Start-up Procedure

Before operating the module, the internal programming switch must be set to properly configure
the module for its intended application. The internal digit pre-select DIP switches must be set for
the tone sequence to be recognized. In addition, the audio (tone) level applied to the module must
be adjusted to assure proper module operation.

3-3. Program Switch Configuration

A ten-bit programming DIP switch is located on the etched circuit board. These bits are numbered
1 through 10; an OFF and ON position is also designated. It is important that this bank of bit
switches be properly programmed for each application. If the application is specified when
ordering, or if a complete system is shipped, the CTD-3104A module is always shipped with the
programming switch preset for the application. In other situations, or if it is desired to re-configure
a system, refer to Program Switch Configuration, Table 3-2 and Operational Mode Explanation,
Table 3-3 for instructions on proper programming.

3-4. Pre-selecting the Digits to be Decoded

Each digit in the tone sequence to be decoded is pre-selected by setting the Digit Pre-Select DIP
Switch for that digit. To pre-select the digits to be decoded, refer to Internal Parts Placement,
Figure 3-1 and Digit Pre-select Switch Settings, Table 3-4.

Table 3-2. CTD-3104A, 10 bit Program Switch Configuration

Mode 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
4T-MOM ON ON ON
4T A/A-MOM ON ON ON ON
4T ON/OFF LATCH ON ON ON
4T A/A/-ON/OFF ON ON ON ON
4T ON LATCH* ON ON ON
4T OFF LATCH* ON ON ON ON
3T-MOM ON ON ON
3T ON/OFF LATCH ON ON ON
3T ON LATCH* ON ON
3T OFF LATCH* ON ON ON
2T-MOM ON ON ON
2T ON/OFF LATCH ON ON ON
2T ON LATCH* ON ON
2T OFF LATCH* ON ON ON
IT-MOM ON ON ON
IT ON/OFF LATCH ON ON ON
IT ON/LATCH* ON ON
IT OFF LATCH* ON ON ON

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Notes:
1. “T” designates one DTMF digit. For example, 729* would be a 4T group.
2. (*) – Music Test Position: With SW9 OFF, the output will switch on and stay on after the
selected “ON” tone group is received. With SW9 ON and the output on, the output will
switch off and stay off after the selected “OFF” group is received.
3. SW10: When ON, disables the automatic reset. Used for test purposes.

Table 3-3. CTD-3104A, Operational Mode Explanation

MOM (Momentary) The output turns on for approximately 1 second after

the last tone of the selected group is received. No
"OFF" tone (#) is utilized: each time the appropriated
code is applied (say 729*), a momentary relay closure
will occur for 225 milliseconds.
A/A-MOM (Alternate Action The output turns on for approximately 1 second after
Momentary): the last tone of the "ON" group is received (usually*)
and the "ON" LED lights. The last tone in the next
group received must be the "OFF" group tone
selected (usually #): this will give a momentary output
and turn the LED off.
ON/OFF LATCHING The output is turned on and stays on after the last
tone of the "ON" group is received (usually *). The
same group must be received again to turn the output
off (no "OFF" group is utilized.
A/A-LATCHING (Alternate Same as ON/OFF LATCHING, but the last tone group
Action Latching): must be an "OFF" group (say 729#) to turn the output
off.

The CTD-3104A module is supplied in standard form with the fourth digit of the ON sequence as *
and the fourth digit of the OFF sequence as #. These are the specified international standard ON
and OFF tone digits. If it is desired to change the fourth digit of a four-digit code to any other digit,
additional DIP switches must be added to the module at the factory. Contact our Service
Department for information.

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 Table 3-4. CTD-3104A, Digit Pre-select Switch Settings

DTMF Digit S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 Settings

SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4
1 ON OFF OFF OFF
2 OFF ON OFF OFF
3 ON ON OFF OFF
4 OFF OFF ON OFF
5 ON OFF ON OFF
6 OFF ON ON OFF
7 ON ON ON OFF
8 OFF OFF OFF ON
9 ON OFF OFF ON
0 OFF ON OFF ON
* ON ON OFF ON
# OFF OFF ON ON
A ON OFF ON ON
B OFF ON ON ON
C ON ON ON ON
D OFF OFF OFF OFF

3-5. Audio Level Adjustment

The CTD-3104A Tone Decoder module(s) used in your system is supplied with an audio tone input
from either the audio output of a satellite receiver or other similar source, or the output of a UAD-
3000A Unattended Telephone Answering Device module, or both. If a UAD-3000A module is
incorporated in your system, its output has been internally wired to a secondary tone input on the
CTD-3104A module(s).

The primary (program tone) input to the CTD-3104A is connected to one of the terminal board
screw terminals (see Table 2-1). This input has a high impedance (about 50,000 ohms) and may be
connected directly to a 150 or 600 ohm program audio line without any detrimental loading or
other effects.

In some applications, it may be necessary to terminate the tone audio being applied to one or both
inputs of the CTD-3104A. To terminate input audio, perform the procedure in Paragraph 3-7,
Audio Termination.

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To assure proper operation of the module, input audio level, connect the audio source to the
module and adjust the output level control at the audio source. The correct adjustment is indicated
by the TONE indicator on the front panel of the CTD-3104A module. Optimum performance is
obtained when the audio level is adjusted as follows:

1. When TONES are carried on a Program Audio Channel (such as satellite network
programming)- Adjust the output level control at the source until the TONE indicator on the
front panel of the CTD module flashes regularly on program audio peaks.

2. When TONES are on a dedicated audio channel- Adjust the output level control at the
source upward until the TONE indicator on the front panel of the CTD module just lights
during a tone burst or test tone transmission. Then adjust the level slightly downward from
that point.

NOTE: Although the input circuitry of the CTD-3104A module has been designed to perform
with a wide variation in input levels, non-standard tone levels may cause the module to miss an
occasional tone burst. Periodic checks of the tone audio level are advised to optimize reliability.

3-6. Changing the Standard Fourth digit

Although the international standard fourth digit for a DTMF ON sequence is *, and the standard
fourth digit for an OFF sequence is #, occasionally a reason for using a different digit is
encountered. The CTD-3104A module can be modified at the factory to enable different fourth
digits to be utilized. Contact our Service Department for information.

3-7. Terminating Input Audio

Although the audio inputs to the CTD-3104A module are labeled HIGH IMPEDANCE and LOW
IMPEDANCE, in actuality both inputs are designed to appear as a high impedance load on input
circuitry.

In some systems, these high-impedance inputs may be unsuited to a particular audio output stage.
Either or both inputs may be terminated in any desired value. To terminate the inputs, perform the
following procedure:

CAUTION!!
Damage which occurs to circuit boards modified outside of Media Control Systems factory may
void the equipment warranty. DO NOT ATTEMPT THE FOLLOWING MODIFICATION UNLESS
YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO REPAIR COMPLEX ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY CONTAINING
INTEGRATED CIRCUITS.

1. Remove the CTD-3104A module from the rack frame and place on a clean, flat work
surface.

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 2. Loosen and remove the four screw and lock washers securing the circuit board to its metal
card carrier.
3. Determine the value of the audio input termination needed and the actual input on which
the termination is desired.

4. Refer to Figure 3-1 and locate the solder pins to which the terminating resistor(s) will be
mounted.

CAUTION!!
The circuit traces on this and all other high-density circuit boards are very thin. Using any
pressure on these traces may cause the copper trace to become detached from the fiberglass
backing. Use extreme caution when removing residual solder from these traces.

5. Using a 25 watt, isolated tip soldering pencil.

6. Form the resistor leads to align with their mounting pins and carefully insert the leads into
the pins.

7. Carefully solder the resistor(s) to the solder pins using only a good quality, high tin content
resin core electronic solder and a 25 watt soldering pencil with an isolated tip.

8. Trim any excess from the resistor leads with a pair of diagonal cutting pliers and inspect the
circuit board for any solder or resin bridges. Clean all residual soldering resin from the
circuit board with isopropyl alcohol or a similar solvent.

9. Mount the circuit board to its metal card carrier using the screws and lock washers
previously removed.

10. Check the settings of the internal programming DIP switch and the digit pre-select
switches.

11. Reinstall the module in the rack frame.

CHAPTER 4 THEORY OF OPERATION

This section contains a functional description of the CTD-3104A Tone Decoder operation and a
brief discussion of its electrical circuitry.

4-1. DTMF Tones

As electronic switching systems were introduced to more and more land-line telephone networks,
the need arose for a more rapid and accurate method of customer dialing. Bell Telephone
laboratories, as a result, developed a dialing method which utilizes tones instead of pulses.

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As most telephone networks incorporate filters which greatly attenuate frequencies lying outside
the normal speech range, this tone dialing system had to, of necessity, utilize frequencies within the
range normally generated by the human voice (usually considered to be the range between 200 and
3400 Hz.).

The dialing tones, to remain free from interference from speech signals on the same circuit, are
comprised of two tones of separate frequency transmitted simultaneously. Since two tones
transmitted together can create harmonic frequencies which also occur within the natural speech
range, the tones were selected especially to avoid any harmonic content which could distort or
otherwise interfere with normal communications on the circuit.

The standard touchpad utilized on most tone-type telephones consists of twelve unique pushbuttons
arranged in three vertical columns of four pushbuttons each. The pushbuttons represent the digits 0
through 9 and the symbols * and # (also known as tones E and F respectively). The complete tone
pushbutton matrix, as designed by Bell Telephone Laboratories, consists of an additional four
pushbutton column. Although seldomly used except in industrial data transmission, these
additional four pushbuttons represent the tones A, B, C and D. The inclusion of these four tones fill
out the touchpad to a square (4 by 4) matrix.

Each column of the tone matrix shares a common high-band tone, while each row shares a
common low-band tone. Pressing any of the sixteen pushbuttons causes two tones (the high-band
component tone and the low-band component tone) to be transmitted simultaneously. Since each
digit is comprised of two tones, and the frequencies transmitted together remain unique to that
digit, the common international term used to describe this method of tone transmission is “Dual-
Tone, Multi-Frequency” or DTMF.

Not only did the advent of DTMF tone dialing allow rapid and accurate call routing, but, since the
dialing tones could be transmitted through the central office switching equipment to the telephone
receiver at the call’s destination, several other uses for the tones became popular. Since the tones
are unused once the call routing is completed, after a connection has been made, they may be
utilized to access any peripheral equipment which is capable of decoding the tones and can be
attached to the telephone circuit.

As communications networks expanded to include microwave satellite up and downlinks, DTMF

tones were utilized to signal the beginning and ending points of transmissions and, later, to
surround time slots of special interest to those receiving the transmissions. Satellite-transmitted
Cable Television networks now commonly use DTMF tone codes to signify the beginning and end
of periods allotted for the insertion of local commercials into their programming by individual
cable systems receiving the network.

To hold to a minimum the disruption in program audio to the consumer, these Satellite Network
“Cue-tones” consist of three unique digits and a * (START) or # (END) digit transmitted at a high-
speed rate of 40ms per digit with 40ms of silence between each digit. This high rate of transmission
speed requires specialized and highly accurate electronic circuitry for dependable cue-tone
decoding to be possible.

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Other tone decoding problems exist on Satellite Networks in addition to the high speed of
transmission. Some networks transmit their cuetones on the same channel used for program audio.
A tone decoder utilized for these networks must be highly selective to avoid “false tripping” by
program audio conditions containing the components of the DTMF tones. Loud popular music and
crowd noise, for instance, may contain the components of every DTMF digit at one time or
another. To remain dependable, then, a DTMF tone decoder used with these networks must contain
circuitry which disregards random tones with a high level of consistency.

Also, the vagaries of satellite transmission may, upon occasion, cause audio levels to vary as much
as 10db. A DTMF tone decoder must therefore be designed to operate dependably over a wide
range of input levels.

As some Cable Television Systems utilize DTMF tone decoders on as many as sixty networks at
one time, tone decoders used as spares in case of malfunction should be easily modified to decode
whatever tone group may be desired.

4-2. CTD-3104A Description

The Media Control Systems CTD-3104A Four-Digit, High-Speed Digital DTMF Tone Decoder
Module has been designed to offer the convenience and dependability of digital DTMF decoding
circuitry with high selectivity and sensitivity.

The module features two separate audio input op-amps. Either one may be utilized, depending
upon the application. Input termination for impedance matching is provided by the addition of
appropriate loading resistors. The module is shipped un-terminated and may be terminated by the
user as desired.

The audio input labeled “Hi-Z” (or high impedance) is most commonly used for satellite receiver
interface and is provided with an audio level LED indicator. The driver for this LED is adjusted to
allow the indicator to reach full brightness when the audio input to the module is at a level of 1.2
volts peak to peak. Input audio levels of between 100mv and 4 volts peak to peak are within the
range required for dependable tone decoding.

Amplified audio from either of the two input op-amps is applied to an 8870 Decoder Circuit. This
circuit splits input audio into two frequency ranges. One range contains all the frequencies utilized
in the DTMF LOW tones, while the other range encompasses only DTMF HIGH tones.

The leading edge of an audio tone group which clears both filter ranges, simultaneously starts two
crystal-controlled timers. These timers measure the pulse repetition rate (or frequency) of the audio
signal. If the two tones match those of a standard DTMF digit, a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD)
output is generated by the circuit. Internal timing in the decoder circuit minimizes the detection
errors caused by slight audio dropouts and non-standard audio signals which might accidentally
contain valid tone components. This timer is factory-adjusted to allow DTMF tone bursts as fast as
22ms ON / 22ms OFF to be detected, while even valid tones which may occur farther apart than 2
seconds cause a module RESET to await the next tone group.

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A group of three Dual Inline Package (DIP) switches mounted on the module allow the user to pre-
select the exact DTMF tone group which must be received to “turn on” the module (cause an
output pulse to be transmitted). The fourth digit of the ON sequence is factory set to the
international standard “*”, while the fourth digit of the OFF sequence is set to the international
standard “#” OFF digit. These fourth digits may be changed to any other digit desired with the
addition of optional DIP switches at the factory.

BCD signals from both the first digit DIP switch and the output of the decoder circuit are applied to
a Comparator circuit. If both BCD signals are identical, an output is applied to a 4022 counter
circuit which causes it to switch the DIP switch corresponding to the next digit in the sequence to
the input of the comparator. If the BCD signals do not match, an output is applied to the 4022
which causes it to RESET to the first digit position.

In this manner, continuous error detection is present during the decoding sequence. Not only do
tone groups of non-standard timing patterns cause a RESET, the circuit also RESETS if a non-
desired or out-of-order digit is detected.

The 4022 counter advances each time a scheduled valid digit is decoded until the last digit has been
received. The CTD-3104A module may be programmed (with another onboard DIP switch) to
decode a sequence of from two to four digits. The last digit causes the 4013 Flip-Flop circuit to
perform its desired function. The 4013 is also programmed via DIP switch.

The user may elect to have the module output consist of momentary pulses as an ON or OFF tone
group is received, a pulse which begins when an ON group is received and ends when an OFF
group is received, or simply a momentary pulse when an ON tone is received. This flexibility
allows the module to be used for virtually any purpose desired.

If an operational mode is selected which requires alternating ON and OFF tone groups, once an ON
group has been received, the decoder circuitry begins looking for an OFF tone group. Additional
ON tone groups will have no effect on the module output.

Front panel LED indicators provide a continuous report of module status. In addition to the HI-Z
audio input level indicator, other LED’s are provided to show receipt of individual digits and the
ON status of the module. Although the high speed nature of most tone transmissions cause the
Digit Indicators to flash so rapidly as to be almost impossible to detect, a slower tone transmission
used during module troubleshooting will allow an accurate display of module operation to be
observed. Likewise, in a “momentary” operational mode, the ON REC’D indicator will only flash
during the period when an output pulse is being transmitted but during troubleshooting, the
“momentary” operation may be defeated and the module’s ON status observed at will.

Since the CTD-3104A provides three separate outputs, it may be used in many different types of
equipment. One of the outputs (Pin B) provides a logic-compatible signal of +12.5vdc when the
module is OFF and +2.5vdc when the module is ON. The other two outputs are relay-generated and
output signals may be high or low-going and of whatever voltage range is desired, as long as
current flow through the relay is below 500ma at 12vdc. One set of relay contacts provides a Form
A output (SPST-normally open), while the other provides a Form C (DPDT) output.

14
An input is provided to allow an external source to generate a low-going RESET/DISABLE
command. The external source must be capable of sinking 0.5ma at 5vdc.

The module requires a supply voltage of between +8 and +14vdc (nominal +12vdc) at 50ma.

The CTD-3104A has been designed to be pin for pin compatible with all other Media Control
Systems Tone Decoder Modules.

CHAPTER 5 MAINTENANCE

This section contains information for maintaining proper operation under field conditions,
troubleshooting guidelines for locating the causes of malfunctions and procedures for replacing
defective modules.

5-1. Periodic Maintenance

The CTD-3104A has been engineered to provide the utmost in reliability and requires no periodic
maintenance of any kind.

5-2. Troubleshooting

The following troubleshooting information is provided to help in quickly locating a system defect
so it can be remedied and the system placed back on-line as soon as possible.

Since overall system operation can be affected electronically by many different things, the
troubleshooting table, (Table 5-1) should be used first to locate the fault. An understanding of the
modules Theory of Operation is helpful in properly troubleshooting the system. If the problem
cannot be located using the Troubleshooting Guide, contact our service center at (619) 599-1050,
Monday – Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm PST.

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 Table 5-1. CTD-3104A, Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom Probable Cause Corrective Action

No power to unit. 1) No power available at AC 1) Repair AC outlet. 2)
outlet. 2) Loose or no connection Reconnect AC line cord. 3)
to AC power. 3) Open AC power disconnect unit from AC power
fuse. 4) Defective +12vdc power and replace fuse. 4) Check
supply. and repair or replace DC power
supply.
Does not decode tones 1) No power to modules. 2) 1) See above (No power to
(consistently or Module not correctly progrommed. unit). 2) Check 1- position DIP
intermittently) 3) Digits not pre-selected. 4) switch for proper settings
Tone level too high or too low. 5) (Table 3-2). 3) Check digit pre-
Module defective. select switches for correct
settings (Table 3-4). 4) Check
audio input level (paragraph 3-
5). 5) Replace module.

5-3. Corrective Maintenance

Since the CTD-3104A is a highly complex electronic device, no user-performed maintenance is

recommended. No component-level maintenance is recommended by Media Control Systems, any
damage caused to either the circuit board or mounted components during maintenance by non-
factory personnel will automatically void any warranties.

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6.0 Typical Wiring Configurations.

CTD-3104A Typical
Wiring Configuration
In this configuration the CTD-3104A will provide a contact
closure to the Ad Insertion system once a valid cue tone ON
sequence has been received. Relay contact will open once a valid
cue tone Off sequence has been received. Refer to page 9 of the CTD-3104A
CTD-3104A manual to program dip switches for cue tone Rear Panel Connections
sequence. Factory default settings are 888*#. 10 bit program
switch is set for 4T On/Off Latch. Refer to page 7 of the
TBX-1 Logic Out, +12VDC = relay on, 2.5VDC = relay on Lout
CTD-3104A manual to change configuration.

TBX-2 Relay K1-A, Normally Open Contact KAno

GPI Insertion Trigger Start

Typical Ad Insertion System TBX-3 Relay K1-C, Normally Open Contact KCno
Ground
Refer to the manufacturers operation
manual to determine GPI input K1-C, Normally Closed Contact KCnc
TBX-4
connections. GPI Insertion Trigger Stop

TBX-5 Manual Set (ON) Set

TBX-6 Manual Reset (OFF) Rset

TBX-7 Low Impedance, Audio Input (+) (600 ohms) DTMF

+LZ

- TBX-8 Ground G
DTMF Cue Tone Audio from Satellite Receiver
(Un-Balanced) DTMF
+ TBX-9 Hi Impedance, Audio Input (+) (50K ohms)
+HZ

TBX-10 Relay K1-A, Common Contact KAC

TBX-11 Relay K1-C, Common Contact KCC

TBX-12 Ground G

Media Control Systems, LLC

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LIMITED WARRANTY

MEDIA CONTROL SYSTEMS, LLC, Warrants each new product manufactured by it to be free of
defective materials and workmanship, and agrees to remedy any such defect by repair or
replacement at no extra charge for a period of one (1) year from the original date of purchase.

This warranty does not extend to any MCS product subject to misuse, neglect, accident, improper
wiring or installation, or used in violation of MCS instructions. Nor does it extend to equipment
that has been altered outside MCS's factory without prior written approval, nor to equipment that
has had the serial number removed, nor to accessories used herewith, which were not manufactured
by MCS. Fuses and batteries are specifically excluded from this Warranty. Equipment sold by but
not manufactured by MCS is warranted by the original equipment manufacturer.

The owner must deliver equipment covered by this warranty with all transportation charges
prepaid, to the MCS factory for examination. If examination discloses, by MCS's judgement, that
this is thus defective, the equipment will be repaired or replaced at no charge. Equipment returned
prepaid under warranty and repaired in MCS's factory will be returned with all transportation
charges, surface freight only, paid by MCS. Units that fail under conditions cited above, as being
outside of the warranty extension will be repaired on a time-and-material basis after notification to
and approval by owner. All freight incurred in repairing equipment not under warranty will be the
responsibility of the owner.

In respect to any and all equipment furnished by MCS, this warranty is in lieu of any other
warranty, obligation, or liability expressed or implied including warranty of merchantability or
fitness for a particular purpose. No person, including a company representative, is authorized to
assume for MCS any other liability in connection with the sale of its products.

Under no circumstances shall MCS be liable in contracts or in tort for any economic loss, including
any loss of profits, or for any special or consequential damage.

All inquires relating to either product operation or warranty service should be directed to:

Media Control Systems

1050 Pioneer Way, Suite Q
El Cajon, CA 92020
Ph. 619-599-1050
Fax 619-599-1051
www.mediacontrolsystems.com

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