Intel Fireface 800 manual Hotline Troubleshooting, Adat channels don’t seem to work

Page 34

17. Hotline – Troubleshooting

17.1 General

The newest information can always be found on our website www.rme-audio.com, section FAQ, Latest Additions.

The input signal cannot be monitored in real-time

ASIO Direct Monitoring has not been enabled, and/or monitoring has been disabled globally.

The 8 ADAT channels don’t seem to work

The optical output ADAT2 has been switched to SPDIF. As can be seen in the block dia- gram, all channels and their assignments still exist, but the optical transmitter has been dis- connected from ADAT2 and is now fed from the SPDIF output (channels 11/12). The ADAT2 playback devices are still usable by routing and mixing them in TotalMix to other outputs.

Playback works, but record doesn’t

Check that there is a valid signal at the input. If so, the current sample frequency is dis- played in the Settings dialog.

Check whether the Fireface 800 has been selected as recording device in the audio applica- tion.

Check whether the sample frequency set in the audio application (‘Recording properties’ or similar) matches the input signal.

Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the systems’s clock mode to Master.

Crackle during record or playback

Increase the number and size of buffers in the ‘Settings’ dialog or in the application.

Try different cables (coaxial or optical) to rule out any defects here.

Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the system’s clock mode to ‘Master’.

Increase the buffer size of the hard disk cache.

Activate Busmaster mode for the hard disks.

In case of a recently done BIOS update of the motherboard: Propably 'Load BIOS Defaults' was loaded instead of 'Load Setup Defaults'. This sets the 'PCI Latency Timer' to 0 (default: 32).

Check the Settings dialog for displayed Errors.

Low Latency ASIO operation under Windows 2000/XP on single CPU systems:

To use ASIO at lowest latencies under Windows 2000/XP even when only having one CPU, the system performance has to be optimized for background tasks. Go to Control Panel/System/Advanced/Performance Options. Change the default 'Applications' to 'Back- ground tasks'. The lowest usable latency will drop from 23 ms to around 3 ms.

Driver installation and Settings dialog/TotalMix work, but a playback or record is not possible

While recognition and control of the device are low bandwidth applications, playback/record needs the full FireWire transmission performance. Therefore, defective FireWire cables with limited transmission bandwidth can cause such an error scheme.

34

User's Guide Fireface 800 © RME

Image 34
Contents Most powerful FireWire audio interface ever TotalMix Bit / 192 kHz SyncAlignZLMSyncCheck SteadyClockInstallation and Operation Mac OS Installation and Operation WindowsGeneral Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Technical Reference Installation Important Safety InstructionsMains Users Guide Fireface 800 RME General Introduction Package ContentsBrief Description and Characteristics System RequirementsConnectors and Front Panel First Usage QuickstartQuick Start AccessoriesPart Number Description Appendix WarrantyTrademarks Users Guide Fireface 800 RME RoHS CE / FCC ComplianceISO Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Driver and Firmware Hardware InstallationDriver Installation Desktop ComputerDeinstalling the Drivers Driver UpdateFirmware Update Configuring the Fireface Settings dialog GeneralInputs Phantom PowerBuffer Size Limit BandwidthSyncCheck Clock ModeWord Clock Out OptionsSettings dialog DDS Clock Modes Synchronization Application examplesAvailable Settings Limit BandwidthOperation and Usage PlaybackAC-3 / DTS DVD-Playback AC-3/DTSMultichannel Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 Fireface Analog 1+2 MMEMulti-client Operation Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDMASIO-Multiclient Digital Recording Operation under Asio Analog RecordingOperation under Gsif Gigasampler Interface Known ProblemsCommon Problems Windows 2000/XPUsing more than one Fireface DIGICheck Hotline Troubleshooting 8 Adat channels don’t seem to workInstallation Diagrams Channel Routing Asio at 96 kHzChannel Routing MME at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Mac OS X Installation and Operation Driver Firmware Update Configuring the Fireface Level Level OutAutoSync Ref Settings dialog DDS Clock Modes Synchronization Limit Bandwidth Round about Driver Installation Mac OS X FAQMidi doesnt work Supported Sample Rates Repairing Disk PermissionsFireWire Compatibility Various InformationMulticard Operation Possible causes for a Fireface not workingDiagram Channel Routing at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Stand-alone Operation Microphone / Line Front Analog InputsLine Rear Reference DBFS @ HeadroomDrive InstrumentSpeaker Emulation Analog Outputs HeadphonesLine Adat Digital ConnectionsSpdif Special Characteristics of the Spdif Output MidiInput Word ClockWord Clock Input and Output OutputTechnical Description and Usage Cabling and Termination OperationTotalMix Routing and Monitoring OverviewUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME User Interface Elements of a Channel Tour de TotalMixUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Submix View Mute and SoloQuick Access Panel PresetsPreset Preset BanksMonitor Panel PreferencesMain Monitor Editing the NamesStereo Pan Law Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter TotalMix The Matrix Elements of the Matrix ViewAdvantages of the Matrix TotalMix Super-FeaturesAsio Direct Monitoring Windows only Copy Routings to other Channels Selection and Group-based OperationDelete Routings Recording a Subgroup Loopback Mixing several input signals into one record channel Using external Effects DevicesRecording a Softwares playback MS Processing Element Midi Remote ControlMapping Meaning in TotalMixSetup Simple Midi Control Preset 3 38 / 56 / #GPreset 5 3A / 58 / #A Monitor Main 3E / 62 / DLoopback Detection Mackie Control Protocol Stand-Alone Midi ControlMeaning in Fireface Element Meaning in Fireface Simple Midi ControlUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Technical Specifications AnalogDA, Line Out 1-8, rear DigitalDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones Digital Inputs Adat OpticalTransfer Modes Resolution / Bits per Sample Windows only Digital OutputsTechnical Background Lock and SyncCheckOversampling Latency and MonitoringHow much Zero is Zero? Sample frequency kHz 44.1 88.2 176.4 192Safety Buffer FireWire AudioCore Audios Safety Offset Number of Channels and Bus Load Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-KanäleDS Double Speed Analog DS Signal PortQS Quad Speed Byte Mode Bit Type AES3-1992 IECNoise level in DS / QS Mode SteadyClockBlock Diagram Fireface XLR jacks of analog inputs Connector PinoutsTRS jacks of analog input / output TRS Phones jack

Fireface 800 specifications

The Intel Fireface 800 is a powerful audio interface celebrated for its high-performance capabilities and versatility in both studio and live settings. Designed to cater to the needs of musicians, producers, and sound engineers, it stands out with its rich feature set and reliable technology.

One of the defining features of the Fireface 800 is its support for an impressive 26 input and 28 output channels. This extensive I/O configuration facilitates seamless integration with a wide variety of audio production setups, allowing users to record multiple instruments simultaneously or create complex routing scenarios. The unit also boasts top-notch analog and digital converters, ensuring pristine sound quality with a dynamic range that captures the nuances of any audio source.

In terms of connectivity, the Fireface 800 is equipped with both FireWire and USB ports, making it compatible with a range of computers and devices. The device utilizes the FireWire 800 protocol, which delivers higher data transfer rates compared to its predecessor. This efficient transfer capability is crucial for maintaining audio fidelity and reducing latency, making it an ideal choice for real-time monitoring and recording.

The Fireface 800 also features standalone operation capabilities, functioning independently of a computer when needed. This is particularly useful for live performances, where reliability and reduced setup complexity are essential. Users can easily connect microphones, instruments, and other equipment directly to the Fireface 800, making it a versatile tool for a variety of scenarios.

With its low-latency driver technology, the Fireface 800 ensures smooth performance even when handling demanding audio tasks. Its advanced ADAT and S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs provide further flexibility for connecting other gear, such as additional preamps and effects processors.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Fireface 800 is its robust build quality. Designed for regular use in professional environments, the unit features a rugged metal chassis that can withstand the rigors of transport and daily use. This ensures longevity and consistent performance for audio professionals who depend on reliable equipment day in and day out.

In summary, the Intel Fireface 800 is a versatile and powerful audio interface that caters to a wide spectrum of audio production needs. With its extensive I/O capabilities, high-quality converters, reliable connectivity options, and robust design, it continues to be a popular choice among audio professionals striving for excellence in their work.