IntroductionThe IFB Plus Series is designed for electronic news-gathering (ENG) trucks, satellite news-gathering (SNG) trucks, and small production vehicles. Interruptible foldback (also known as talent cueing) allows reporters and other on-air talent to receive program audio along with audio cues from production personnel, generally directors and producers. The design and implementation of a studio IFB system can be quite complex, yet normally remains the same from day to day. Talent and production personnel, along with the IFB equipment, are physically located in the same facility.
Mobile IFB applications can present increased challenges as the number and variety of program sources, interrupt sources, and configuration possibilities quickly multiply. Program audio can come from many sources, including off-air receivers, 2-way radios, telephone lines, satellite receivers, and cellular telephones. Interrupt audio (talent cues) may be received with the program material connected via telephone lines or may need to come from the mobile unit itself. The ability to provide IFB audio to a number of destinations is also required. These include talent "belt pack" amplifiers, transmitters used with wireless receivers, and intercom systems.
A mobile IFB system must be easy to set up and quick to configure. It must be able to withstand the day in, day out punishment of life "on the road." Meeting these diverse requirements is made more difficult by the space restrictions imposed by mobile facilities.
Studio Technologies has addressed these requirements with the IFB Plus Series products. The IFB Plus Series consists of the Model 2 Central Controller, the Model 22 and Model 24 Access Stations, the Model 32A and Model 33 Talent Amplifiers, and supporting accessories. These products combine the best features of studio IFB systems along with the special requirements of mobile applications. The end result is an IFB system that is flexible, versatile, and extremely space efficient.
The heart of the IFB Plus Series is the Model 2 Central Controller. This one rack-space unit offers a wide range of features all optimized for mobile applications. These include two independent IFB channels, an internal interrupt microphone, and four program inputs. Two telephone interfaces allow direct connection to telephone lines or standard audio signals. The telephone interfaces can be used to receive and send IFB audio.
In addition to the Model 2's internal interrupt microphone, up to four additional interrupt locations can be added using Model 22 or Model 24 Access Stations. These additional locations allow producers, directors, or other personnel to cue talent.
The Model 2 allows connection of up to four Model 32A or Model 33 Talent Amplifiers. Each is a compact, "belt pack" unit whose output is compatible with all standard earpieces and headsets. The Model 32A is a basic unit intended for use by on-air personnel, while the Model 33 provides extra features that are useful for camera and production personnel.
FeaturesThe Model 32A and Model 33 Talent Amplifiers are self-contained "belt pack" units that drive talent earpieces or headsets. A single 3-conductor microphone-type cable links the Model 2 with the talent amplifiers. Each Model 32A and Model 33 contains both a male and female XLR-type connector, allowing simple "loop through" connection of multiple units. Up to four talent amplifiers can be connected to, and powered by, a single Model 2 Central Controller. On each talent amplifier the audio output signal is provided on a standard ¼-inch phone jack. In addition, the Model 32A has a 3.5 mm jack. An LED on each unit lights whenever power is present, providing setup assistance and user confidence. Identical in size, each is housed in a lightweight, yet rugged, aluminum housing that includes a belt clip. An optional mounting adapter is available, allowing a Model 32A or 33 to be installed in a permanent location.
The Model 32A Talent Amplifier is intended for use by on-air personnel, and contains a source switch, along with an output level control. Either IFB channel 1 or IFB channel 2 can be sent to the talent, along with the desired audio "volume." For user convenience, both ¼-inch and 3.5 mm output jacks are provided.
Downloads Model 32A Data Sheet
Model 32A User Guide
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