1 0 . 4 M e a s u r e m e n t s
The SmaartLive™ computer program, from SIA Software Company, is an ideal tool to use to measure and optimize a loudspeaker system or loudspeaker array for a particular venue. This is a fast, yet sophisticated, process that will indicate problem areas due to particular venue characteristics. Usually it is a matter of applying small amounts of equalization to adjust significant anomalies.
While there are a number of other commercially available and quite sophisticated measurement programs, they are not specifically optimized for measurements of loudspeakers in use, but rather for laboratory type measurements. On the other hand SmaartLive provides the major benefits of using a test signal, including music, for the measurements and providing continuous,
A demo version of SmaartLive is available at www.siasoft.com.
1 0 . 5 O p e r a t i n g T i p s To H e l p Av o i d L o u d s p e a k e r D a m a g e
1.Do NOT drive any of your electronic equipment into clipping, particularly the power amplifiers. This can easily damage the loudspeaker.
2.If driven into clipping, even an amplifier with a power output rating lower than EAW's power rating can cause damage to a loudspeaker.
3.Avoid sustained microphone feedback. This can quickly cause driver failure.
4.Avoid extreme boosts on equalizers as these can cause excessive input to the drivers at the boosted frequencies. Generally, cutting frequencies is preferred to correct for frequency response problems. These problems include attenuating feedback frequencies or reducing excessive energy at certain frequencies due to room acoustics.
5.With appropriate signal processing, your loudspeaker should produce exceptionally good sound. If used in a room with problematic acoustics, there is little you can do to overcome these problems with electronic adjustments. Your best solution is careful placement and aiming of the loudspeaker so that most of the sound is directed only at the audience.
6.EAW loudspeakers are capable of sound levels that can be damaging to human hearing. Take precautions so that audiences are not exposed to such levels. If you must expose yourself to these kinds of volume levels, wear adequate hearing protection.
7.Take care when moving or lifting the loudspeaker. Careless handling can result in equipment damage, injury, or death.
8.Avoid exposing the loudspeaker to extreme cold (below freezing temperature). If you must operate the loudspeaker in a cold environment, warm it up by sending a full- range,
Section 11 Inspection and Maintenance
Your EAW loudspeaker should require little to no regular attention for normal use. However, performing regular inspections and maintenance can ensure your loudspeaker remains in optimum operating and cosmetic condition.
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