The OCTOPACK-L Octopack Portable Multicoupler from Lectrosonics provides up to eight audio channels and combines up to four SRa Series compact receivers into a lightweight, rugged assembly with self-contained power supply and antenna signal distribution. To ensure equal performance from all connected receivers, the Octopack features 470 to 691 MHz low RF bandwidth ultra-quiet amplifiers. These amplifiers provide a very high overload threshold to avoid generating IM (intermodulation) within the multicoupler itself.
Modular Configuration
The Octopack can accommodate up to four SRa Series compact receivers. These receivers can be installed in any of the four slots, or a slot can be left empty with no need to terminate the RF coaxial connections. The receivers interface with the Octopack board via the Unislot adapter.
High-Performance Antenna Multicoupler with Isolated Outputs
The wide bandwidth of the antenna multicoupler allows the use of SRa Series receivers over a wide range of frequency blocks to simplify frequency coordination. Antenna inputs are standard 50-ohm BNC jacks.
Audio Outputs
Eight balanced outputs are provided on the side panel of the multicoupler. When the receivers operate in the 2-channel mode, each jack provides a separate audio channel. In the ratio diversity mode, the receivers are paired, so both output jacks deliver the same audio channel. The connectors are standard TA3M types with the same pin-out numbering as XLR connectors.
Switchable Antenna Power for Remote Coaxial RF Amplifiers
The DC power on the BNC jacks can be switched-On for use with Lectrosonics UFM230 RF amplifiers or the ALP640 powered antenna for long coaxial cable runs. An LED next to the recessed switch indicates the antenna power status.
External DC or Onboard Battery Powering
The rear/bottom panel provides a locking power jack and mounting for two L or M style rechargeable batteries (not included). When batteries and external DC are both connected, power is drawn from the source with the highest voltage to allow the batteries to function as a backup to the external power. If the external source fails, the batteries will immediately take over and the power LED will blink slowly. For reliability, the switching is handled by circuitry rather than a mechanical switch. This automatic selection of power is achieved by the automatic power source selection functionality which is controlled by the integrated voltage comparator. The Octopack features discrete power distribution with individual protective fusing.
Note:
When batteries are used, they must be charged separately with an external charger (available separately) as there is no charging circuitry in the Octopack.
Front-Panel Design
The front panel is designed to accept the standard or the "5P" version of the receiver, which provides audio outputs on the front panel of the receiver. The second set of audio outputs can be used for a redundant feed to a recorder in addition to the main outputs that would typically feed wireless transmitters in a bag system or a mixer on a sound cart.
Machined Aluminum Chassis for Sound Cart or Portable Bag Use
The housing is constructed of machined aluminum with a reinforced rear/bottom panel to protect the batteries and power jack. The front panel includes two rugged handles that protect the connectors, receiver front panels, and antenna jacks.