The Jitterbug is a stand alone analyser which can reveal most/all the parameters of an incoming AES-3 digital signal, useful for development, systems checking and trouble-shooting. When connected to a PC it's cababilities are enhanced and helpful automation is available. Built in a rugged extruded case it is powered by an external DC source. It may be used free-standing or rack-mounted using optional panels.
Jitterbug
Two test inputs are provided; an XLR-3F connector provides a balanced AES-3 connection and an RCA (phono) type takes SPDIF or TTL Wordclock signals. The front-panel has an LCD screen showing measured parameters and buttons to control the unit. One of these selects between the two input sources. Another terminates the selected input; when it is changed, the Jitterbug measures the source impedance and displays it. A pair of buttons selects the menu, and abort the current mode. They also control the level to a headphone output. A 'GO' button accepts the current selection and starts testing. Where tests have two different modes it toggles between them. A headphone button cycles between left, right, stereo and mono operation.
Menu selections include frequency, jitter, AC levels (carrier or common mode signal), AES error logging, AES status and AES signal. A further mode switches the function of the menu switches to control headphone level. Carrier frequency or Wordclock measurements: Frequency; 2Hz to 7MHz, 2Hz accuracy, Jitter; 2nS resolution. AES status information: key flags shown. AES Signal: Stereo bargraph or signal level to 1dB resolution.
The rear panel has the XLR and RCA (phono) input, a miniature stereo jack for headphones, oscilliscope or audio test set, and the RS-232 port, a 9-pin D-sub connector. The external DC supply uses a 2.5mm coaxial input.
Jitterbug Software
Software is available for Windows 98 and XP by download from the BCD website. The PC communicates with the Jitterbug using RS-232 protocol through any available Com port. The GUI replicates the functions of the physical controls and LCD screen on the Jitterbug front panel and offers various enhancements in addition. The resolution of measured signal level is increased to 0.1dB, calibration of the signal bargraph and level display can be changed from dBFS to dBu. The PC maintains a time-stamped logfile of errors found during the AES Error log test. Full status information is provided during the AES Status test and a repeated capture may be performed. Channel status information can be displayed in full ASCII format or interpreted. The software can control the Jitterbug concurrently with a matching Humbug.
AES-3 input: Impedance 110 ohms or high. SPDIF input to IEC958: Impedance 75ohms or high. Both accept minimum level 200mV peak to peak. Headphone output: Output impedance 100ohms, 4V peak to peak nominal. Power source: 8 - 30V DC, 1W maximum. Dimensions: 94 x 52 x 108 (w x h x d) mm. Weight:250g.
Included accessories: Instructions.
Optional accessories: Plug-in power supply 23-954 and 23-931 (UK). See BCD rack mounting panels - Extruded box for details of rack mounting-options and see Extruded Boxes Mounting Kits for fixing to flat surfaces.