ALLEN HEATH AHM-16 16×16 Digital Matrix User Guide

ALLEN HEATH AHM-16 16×16 Digital Matrix

Product Information

Specifications:

• Model: AHM-16 / AHM-32
• Manufacturer: Allen & Heath Limited
• Address: Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK
• Website: http://www.allen-heath.com
• Warranty: Limited Three Years Manufacturer’s Warranty

Introduction:

The AHM-16/AHM-32 is a professional audio hardware processor manufactured by Allen & Heath Limited. It is designed for use in various audio production setups. This Getting Started Guide will provide you with the necessary information to set up and use the AHM-16/AHM-32 effectively.

Safety Instructions:

Before starting, it is important to read and follow the Important Safety Instructions provided with the equipment. These instructions ensure your safety as well as the safety of the operator, technical crew, and performers. Pay attention to any warnings printed on the equipment panels.

System Operating Firmware:

The AHM processor’s functionality is determined by the firmware (operating software) it runs. Regular firmware updates are released to add new features and improvements. To ensure you have the latest version of firmware, visit the Allen & Heath website at http://www.allen-heath.com.

Software Licence Agreement:

By using the AHM-16/AHM-32 and its software, you agree to be bound by the terms of the relevant End User Licence Agreement (EULA). You can find a copy of the EULA at http://www.allenheath.com/legal. Installation, copying, or use of the software implies acceptance of the EULA.

Further Information:

For additional information, technical support, and access to the  AHM System Manager Help, please visit the Allen & Heath website. The website also contains a knowledge base to assist you further. Make sure to check for the latest version of this Getting Started Guide on the website.

Product Usage Instructions

Setting Up:

Before using the AHM-16/AHM-32, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the operating temperature at the venue is suitable for the equipment.
2. Place the AHM-16/AHM-32 in a location where it is not obstructed and has adequate air movement.
3. Avoid exposing the equipment to solvents or liquids that may damage it.
4. If any maintenance, repair, or modification is required, contact an authorized Allen & Heath distributor. Unauthorized actions may void the warranty and cause damage.

Registering Your Product:

It is recommended to register your AHM-16/AHM-32 online at http://www.allen- heath.com/register.
This allows you to receive important product updates and notifications.

FAQ:

• Q: Where can I find the latest firmware and documentation?
  A: You can find the latest firmware and documentation on the Allen & Heath website at http://www.allen-heath.com.

• Q: What should I do if I encoun ter issues with my AHM-16/AHM-32?
  A: If you require further assistance or encounter any issues  with your AHM-16/AHM-32, please contact Allen & Heath Ltd or  reach out to your local Allen & Heath distributor. Their  contact details can be found on the Allen & Heath website.

Getting Started Guide
Before starting please check www.allen-heath.com for the latest firmware and documentation.

Warranty

Limited Three Years Manufacturer’s Warranty

• Allen & Heath warrants this Allen &Heath -branded hardware product and accessories contained in the original packaging (“Allen & Heath Product”) against defects in materials and workmanship when used in accordance with Allen & Heath’s user manuals, technical specifications and other Allen & Heath product published guidelines for a period of THREE (3) YEARS from the date of original purchase by the end-user purchaser (“Warranty Period”).
• This warranty does not apply to any non-Allen & Heath branded hardware products or any software, even if packaged or sold with Allen & Heath hardware.
• Please refer to the licensing agreement accompanying the software for details of your rights with respect to the use of software/firmware (“EULA”).
• Details of the EULA, warranty policy and other useful information can be found on the Allen & Heath website: www.allen-heath.com/legal.
• Repair or replacement under the terms of the warranty does not provide right to extension or renewal of the warranty period. Repair or direct replacement of the product under the terms of this warranty may be  fulfilled with functionally equivalent service exchange units.
• This warranty is not transferable. This warranty will be the purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy and neither Allen & Heath nor its approved service centres shall be liable for any incidental or consequential damages or breach of any express or implied warranty of this product.

Conditions Of Warranty
The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental, neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service Manual, or approved by Allen & Heath.
Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by an authorized Allen & Heath distributor or agent.
The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to the place of purchase, an authorized Allen & Heath distributor or agent with proof of purchase. Please discuss this with the distributor or the agent before shipping. Units returned should be packed in the original carton to avoid transit damage.

DISCLAIMER :
Allen & Heath shall not be liable for the loss of any saved/stored data in products that are either repaired or replaced.
Check with your Allen & Heath distributor or agent for any additional warranty information that may apply. If further assistance is required please contact Allen & Heath Ltd

AHM-16 / AHM-32 Getting Started Guide Issue 3 Copyright © 2022 Allen & Heath. All rights reserved.
Allen & Heath Limited, Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK http://www.allen-heath.com

Safety instructions

Before starting, read the Important Safety Instructions printed on the sheet supplied with the equipment. For your own safety and that of the operator, technical crew and performers, follow all instructions and heed all warnings printed on the sheet and on the equipment panels.

System operating firmware
The function of AHM processor is determined by the firmware (operating software) that runs it. Firmware is updated regularly as new features are added and improvements made.
Check www.allen-heath.com for the latest version of firmware.

Software licence agreement
By using this Allen & Heath product and the software within it you agree to be bound by the terms of the relevant End User Licence Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can be found at www.allenheath.com/legal. You agree to be bound by the terms of the EULA by installing, copying, or using the software.

Further information

• Please refer to the Allen & Heath website for further information, knowledgebase and technical support.
• For more information on AHM setup and functions please refer to the AHM System Manager Help.
• Check for the latest version of this Getting Started Guide.

General Precautions

• Protect the equipment from damage through liquid or dust contamination.
• If the equipment has been stored in sub-zero temperatures allow time for it to reach normal operating temperature before use at the venue.
• Avoid using the equipment in extreme heat and direct sunlight. Make sure the ventilation slots are not obstructed and that there is adequate air movement around the equipment.
• Clean the equipment with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. Do not use chemicals, abrasives or solvents.
• It is recommended that servicing is carried out only by an authorized Allen & Heath agent. Contact details for your local distributor can be found on the Allen & Heath website. Allen & Heath do not accept liability for damage caused by maintenance, repair or modification by unauthorized personnel.

Register your product
Register your product online at www.allen-heath.com/register.

Packed items

Check you have received the following:

• AHM matrix processor
• This Getting Started Guide
• Safety Sheet
• IEC mains lead
• Phoenix connectors with strain relief – 1x 10-pin, 16x 3-pin (AHM-16), 24x 3-pin (AHM-32)

Introduction

AHM-16 and AHM-32 are audio matrix processors for sound management and installation. They are designed for audio distribution, paging, conferencing, speaker processing in a multitude of environments including corporate, hospitality, education, event and multi-purpose venues, retail, theatres, cruise ships, sports venues. The AHM processor is complemented by an extended ecosystem of remote audio expanders, remote controllers, interfaces, apps and software. A family of portable, rack-mountable or wall-mount audio expanders is available with a choice of proprietary point-to-point Layer-2 or Dante transport protocols. A range of IP remote controllers is available for volume control, music source selection, preset recall and more. AHM can also integrate with third party devices over GPIO, TCP/IP, or industry standard control systems. The Custom Control editor and app from Allen & Heath offer more control options and custom
user interfaces for multiple users and device types, with kiosk and BYOD capability.

AHM-16 features

AHM-16 features at a glance:

• 16×16 processing matrix
• 8×8 local analogue I/O
• I/O Port for expansion or audio networking, up to 128×128
• Dante 96kHz optional cards (AES67 and DDM ready)
• 16 configurable processing outputs – up to 16 mono / 8 stereo zones
• Sound management tools
  • Automatic Mic Mixer
  • ANC (Ambient Noise Compensation)
  • Priority ducking
  • 8-band PEQ, dynamics and delay on every input and zone
  • Speaker processing with x-over filter, delay, limiter and PEQ
• 96kHz FPGA core with ultra-low latency
• Compatible with Allen & Heath IP1, IP6, IP8 remote controllers
• 2×2 local GPIO plus networkable GPIO interface
• Front panel screen and 4x programmable SoftKeys
• 4 user profiles
• Event scheduler

AHM-32 features

AHM-32 features at a glance:

• 32×32 processing matrix
• 12×12 local analogue I/O
• I/O Port for expansion or audio networking, up to 128×128
• Dante 96kHz optional cards (AES67 and DDM ready)
• 32 configurable processing outputs – up to 32 mono / 16 stereo zones
• Sound management tools
  • 4x Automatic Mic Mixer
  • AEC (Acoustic Echo Cancellation)*
  • ANC (Ambient Noise Compensation)
  • Priority ducking
  • 8-band PEQ, dynamics and delay on every input and zone
  • Speaker processing with x-over filter, delay, limiter and PEQ with optional module
•  96kHz FPGA core with ultra-low latency
• Compatible with Allen & Heath IP1, IP6, IP8 remote controllers
• 2×2 local GPIO plus networkable GPIO interface
• Front panel screen and 8x programmable SoftKeys
• 16 user profiles
• Event scheduler

Installing AHM-16/AHM-32

Freestanding
For free-standing or shelf operation, apply the adhesive plastic feet to the positions indicated below. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit. It must not be covered in any way. Always stand the unit on a  firm flat surface away from any soft furnishings or carpet.

Rack mounting
AHM-16 and AHM-32 are 19-inch rack mountable and occupy 1U of rack space. The plastic feet may need to be removed before rack mounting; retain them for future use.
Ensure natural convection of airflow around the unit by allowing good ventilation in front of and behind the unit. Rack equipment known to produce a significant amount of heat should not be mounted directly above or below the unit. Forced convection by means of a rack-mounted fan-tray may be desirable in situations where space is restricted, and the ambient air temperature is high.

Front Panel

SoftKeys
Programmable SoftKeys for local user control. Functions are assigned by the AHM System Manager software and include Input / Zone / Crosspoint Mute, Level, Preset Recall, Preset Select, Paging, Zone Source Select.

LCD Screen and Select buttons

• The LCD screen displays information about the unit or the function selected by the front panel SoftKeys.
• A splash screen is displayed at power up. Use the arrow keys to sequence through information screens such as firmware version, network settings and diagnostics. This can be useful to identify the unit IP address before connecting.
• Level When a front panel SoftKey assigned to a Level is pressed, the screen will  display the Input / Zone name, level and meter. Use the arrow keys to control the level.
• Source Select When a front panel SoftKey assigned to a Zone Source Selector is pressed, the screen will display a list of available sources as configured in AHM System Manager. Use the arrow keys to select the source and press Sel to confirm.
• The screen will then display the active source and the Zone name, level and meter. Use the arrow keys to control the level of the Zone. Press Sel again to select another source.
• Press the SoftKey again to exit Source Select mode.
• Preset Select When a front panel SoftKey assigned to Preset Select is pressed, the screen will display a list of available Presets as configured in AHM System Manager.
• Use the arrow keys to select the Preset and press Sel to recall.
• The screen will then display the active Preset. Press Sel again to select another Preset. Press the SoftKey again to exit Preset Select mode.

Rear Panel

1. Mic/Line Inputs
   Recallable preamps on Phoenix connectors, for balanced or unbalanced microphone and line level signals. Gain, Pad and 48V are digitally controlled within the preamp. Any socket can be patched to any of the Input Channels. Use the provided 3-pin Phoenix connectors with strain relief for optimal cable management.

2. Line Outputs
   Assignable line level, balanced outputs on Phoenix connectors. Nominal level +4dBu. The outputs are relay protected to prevent power on or off thumps. Use the provided 3-pin Phoenix connectors with strain relief for optimal cable management.

3. Mains
   IEC inlet with universal power supply (100-240V AC, 50-60Hz).

4. I/O Port
   Audio interface port providing up to 128×128 I/O. Fit one of the option cards available for system expansion, distributed audio networking or system integration. Refer to www.allen-heath.com for a list of available option cards.
   For Dante audio networking, use the M-SQ-DANT32 or M-SQ-DANT64 (SQ Dante V2) card, not the original M-SQ-DANTE card.
   The I/O Port panel is also used to access DIP switch 6 for network reset of the unit to default settings. Reset occurs with switch 6 in the On position at power up. After 10 seconds, turn off the unit and move the switch back to the Off position. Do not alter the position of the other DIP switches

5. GPIO
   General purpose interface for control integration with third-party hardware. Offers 2x inputs switching to ground, and 2x relay outputs on Phoenix connectors, in addition to a +10V DC output.
   Maximum current drawn from the +10V supply for all outputs combined must not exceed 200mA
   Output 1 can be wired as normally closed or normally open. Output 2 is normally open.
   For higher current or voltage applications, an external DC power supply may be used.
   This also provides total isolation between the AHM processor and external equipment.
   Maximum external supply voltage must not exceed +24V DC. Maximum current  sink through any open collector output must not exceed 400mA

6. Use the provided 10-pin Phoenix connector with strain relief for optimal cable
   management.

7. Control Network
   RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. Connect a laptop, wireless router or switch to use with the AHM System Manager, IP remote controllers, Custom Control app or TCP control. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses.
   To reset the network settings to factory default, see DIP switch settings in the I/O Port paragraph above.

AHM-32 Processing Expansion Module
A processing expansion module can be fitted in the AHM-32 for applications like AEC (Acoustic Echo Cancelling). Refer to www.allen-heath.com for a list of available modules. Follow the fitting instructions of the optional module for installation.
Installation of any optional module must only be carried out by technically skilled personnel.

Connections Audio

For all audio connections, use CAT5e (or higher specification) STP cables up to 100m long.
Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements, recommendations, and a list of CAT cables available to order.

Audio expanders with SLink card fitted
When an audio expander is connected, the SLink card detects the type of device and automatically switches to the relevant Allen & Heath protocol, sample rate and Ethernet speed. The table below lists compatible audio expanders. Visit allen-heath.com/everything-io/ for more information on our range of expansion options.

 | Sample Rate|

Inputs

|

Outputs

|

Connection

|

Protocol

| Ethernet speed
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
GX4816| 96kHz| 48| 16| SLink port| gigaACE| Gigabit
DX32| 96kHz| <32| SLink port or DX Hub| DX| Fast Ethernet
DX168| 96kHz| 16| 8| SLink port or DX Hub| DX| Fast Ethernet
DX164-W| 96kHz| 16| 4| SLink port or DX Hub| DX| Fast Ethernet
DX012| 96kHz| 0| 12| SLink port or DX Hub| DX| Fast Ethernet
DX Hub| 96kHz| 128| 128| SLink port| gigaACE| Gigabit
AR2412| 48kHz| 24| 12| SLink port| dSnake| Fast Ethernet
AR84| 48kHz| 8| 4| Slink port| dSnake| Fast Ethernet
AB168| 48kHz| 16| 8| Slink port| dSnake| Fast Ethernet

• At connection or power up, the AHM processor will check the firmware version of the expander device and upgrade or downgrade the device to match the main unit firmware.
• Up to 2x dSnake 48kHz expanders can be daisy-chained over SLink, provided the first expander is an AR2412 or AB168, and the second expander is an AB168 or AR84. Connection of 2x AR2412 is not supported.
• Up to 2x DX168, DX164-W, DX012 expanders in any combination can be daisy-chained over SLink. AHM processors do not support redundant connection to DX expanders
• A DX Hub can be connected to the SLink card for further expansion with up to 8 DX expanders. It also enables a single cable link to the AHM processor in cases where multiple expanders are located on a different floor, area or building

Audio expanders and Ethernet

• All protocols listed above are point-to-point connections, Ethernet Layer 2 compliant. gigaACE operates at Gigabit Ethernet speed (1000BASE-T, IEEE 802.3ab). DX and dSnake operate at Fast Ethernet speed (100BASE-TX, IEEE 802.3u).
• Layer 2 network devices and media converters can be used, provided they support the correct link speed.
• Typical applications include conversion to fibre optic for longer cable runs, or integration within an existing Ethernet infrastructure. Refer to the following guidelines and always test the network for functionality and reliability before putting into service. Further advice and notes on VLANs, TCP ports and bandwidth are available on the online Allen & Heath Knowledgebase and website.
• Layer 2.5 and higher protocols including Spanning Tree, Tagged Egress Packets,  and Broadcast Storm Protection can cause interruption to audio data or audible clicks. Smart / managed switches may allow turning off Layer 3 or 4 functions, but as a general rule we recommend using Layer 2 devices only.
• Note that no other device should be plugged into a switch carrying gigaACE, dSnake or DX audio. Parallel connection of multiple expanders on the same switch is not possible.

Other SLink connections
The SLink card can be connected directly to another AHM processor, an SLink enabled Allen & Heath mixer such as SQ or Avantis, or a dLive system fitted with a gigaACE card. This connection enables 128×128 channels of audio.

• Set the Audio Sync options so that one device is the clock leader (set to ‘Internal’) and the other device is a clock follower (sync from SLink or I/O Port as appropriate).
• The SLink port does not tunnel control network data. Use the Network port to connect multiple AHM processors or other Allen & Heath mixers for control  purposes, for example for Embedded Scene Recalls or System Manager operation.

Dante expanders with Dante card fitted

• Control of the DT168 or DT164-W expanders requires an M-SQ-DANT32 or M-SQ-DANT64 (SQ Dante V2) card fitted in the I/O Port.
• Use Dante Controller to patch signals between Dante devices. When a valid DT168 or DT164-W socket is routed to the AHM processor, and patched to an Input channel, System Manager will present preamp gain, +48V and Pad controls for the socket.
• DT expanders should always be clock followers on the Dante network, with the AHM-64 processor typically set to ‘Preferred Leader’ and ‘Enable Sync to External’.
• Refer to the DT expander Getting Started Guide at www.allen-heath.com for further information.

Connections Control

• A computer, wireless router or switch can be connected to the Network port to use with the AHM System Manager, IP remote controllers, Custom Control app or TCP control.
  For all connections, use CAT5e (or higher specification) cables up to 100m long.

• Refer to www.allen-heath.com for cable requirements, recommendations, and a list of CAT cables available to order.
  AHM processors communicate over TCP/IP. All devices on the network must have compatible IP addresses. Factory defaults for AHM-16 and AHM-32 are: IP Address 192.168.1.91 Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0 Gateway 192.168.1.254

• AHM processors support up to 100 TCP connections. These include any IP controller, GPIO interface, System Manager or Custom Control instance. More information is available on the online Allen & Heath Knowledgebase

Software and apps

• For direct, wired laptop connection using System Manager or the Custom Control editor, set the laptop to a static, compatible IP address, for example, 192.168.1.10.
• For LAN or wireless connections, including Custom Control apps, set the router/access point to a compatible IP address, for example, 192.168.1.254, and its DHCP range to a compatible range of addresses, for example, 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200. Set any laptop, tablet or mobile device to DHCP / ‘obtain an IP address automatically’.

IP Controllers
AHM processors are compatible with the remote controllers and GPIO interfaces listed below. All devices listed here can be set to DHCP if required
The function of the IP controllers and GPIO is configured via the AHM System Manager. At connection or power-up, the AHM processor will check the firmware version of the IP controllers and GPIO and upgrade or downgrade the device to match the main unit firmware.

Connection over WAN
For connection of System Manager or Custom Control over a WAN, TCP port 51321 and UDP port 51324  should be forwarded by the NAT to the IP address of the AHM processor.
We strongly recommend using a secure VPN to access the local network. When connecting directly over the Internet, use a good quality firewall and NAT to block ports when not in use.

TCP Protocol
A TCP Protocol for control and interrogation of AHM parameters is available and documented at www.allenheath.com. Clients should be configured to use TCP port 51325 (unsecured) or the TLS/TCP port 51327 depending on the External Control security options set with AHM System Manager.
Check www.allen-heath.com for drivers or project templates for leading control systems such as Crestron or AMX.

Dimensions

Technical specs

Processing specs

AHM-16/32 Getting Started Guide

References

• Everything I/O - Allen & Heath
• heath.com domain name may be for sale
• heath.com domain name may be for sale
• Allen & Heath - Heard Everywhere
• Allen & Heath - Heard Everywhere
• Legal - Allen & Heath
• Register a Product - Allen & Heath
• Everything I/O - Allen & Heath

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