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FlexStar® HDx FM/FM-HD Exciter
Unsurpassed Performance and Reliability
The FlexStar HDx exciter delivers unrivaled performance and an impressive feature set. One of the most advanced HD Radio™ exciters ever invented, the FlexStar HDx system is also the world’s first tri-mode exciter — capable of handling HD, analog FM, or FM+HD simultaneously. The FlexStar HDx exciter provides a digital signal of flawless integrity, with complete technical and regulatory compliance for Harris tube and solid-state HD Radio transmitters. The HDx exciter analog FM performance is unsurpassed in the industry. Designed to accept the broadest range of analog and digital inputs, the FlexStar HDx exciter can be operated in the studio’s current configuration, and then upgraded to HD Radio on any preferred timetable. Even the analog input will provide exceptional audio quality improvements upon installation.
For HD Radio implementation, award-winning HDE-200 embedded HD Radio exporter is also required. The exporter is typically located at the studio and may be joined by the Harris HDI-200 importer for advanced applications, such as supplemental audio channels (multicast) and additional data services.
The exclusive Harris® Real-Time Adaptive Correction (RTAC™) technology incorporated in the FlexStar HDx exciter continuously monitors the transmitter output, while automatically adapting for system nonlinearities. This keeps the station well within FCC compliance and maximizes coverage. Sustainable performance is another key benefit of the FlexStar HDx exciter — it delivers the same unsurpassed quality today as it did on the day of final testing at the factory. The integrated digital stereo generator with the adjustable Digital Composite Limiter (DCL) uses proprietary look-ahead algorithms to anticipate and eliminate over-modulation peaks before they occur.
Incredibly versatile, the FlexStar HDx exciter will far exceed current requirements and easily enables future station growth.
Features
- Embedded Digital Signal Processing (DSP) based FM, HD or FM+HD exciter
- Direct-to-channel digital FM modulation
- Dual-output, tri-mode FM, HD or FM-HD operation (two exciters in one)
- RTAC (Real-Time Adaptive Correction)
- Digital adaptive group delay equalization
- Optimized correction for FM tube- and solid-state transmitters
- RF mode switching on-the-fly
- Integrated N+1 control system
- World’s best FM analog performance
- 10 MHz input reference for synchronous booster and Single Frequency Network (SFN) support
- Easy-to-use Graphic User Interface (GUI)
- Spectrum display; shows real-time performance
- Integrated digital stereo generator with updated digital composite limiter
- Two built-in subcarrier (SCA) generators
- Integrated, static RBDS generator
- Up to three external subcarrier inputs
- Auto-switching between analog, AES-3 Main and AES-3 AUX inputs for on-air reliability
- Compact design (only 12 in. deep); eliminates external racks; fits in any Harris transmitter
- Efficient, easy-to-service interior
- High-efficiency, auto-ranging power supply
- Internal harmonic filter for standalone transmitter
Product Details
Designed to accept the broadest range of analog and digital inputs, the FlexStar HDx exciter can be operated in the studio’s current configuration, and then upgraded to HD Radio on any preferred timetable. Even the analog input will provide exceptional audio quality improvements upon installation.
N+1 Frequency Agility
An additional feature of the FlexStar HDx exciter is its ability to employ N+1 frequency agility. This permits on-the-fly switching of frequencies, and is perfect for a broadband transmitter needing to act as a backup to multiple stations in a market. Up to 8 different frequencies can be programmed and remotely selected to support N+1 systems.
Exclusive Pre-Correction Technology for Significant Cost Savings
Featuring proprietary Harris RTAC (Real-Time Adaptive Correction) pre-correction circuitry, the FlexStar HDx exciter enables transmitters to deliver linear amplification without the need for RF bandpass filters that can cost up to $15,000. RTAC technology also increases efficiency for ongoing power savings, while comfortably exceeding the FCC’s RF mask requirements to prevent signal interference.
Dual-Output Exciter in One Compact Package
The FlexStar HDx exciter is the world’s first exciter designed to drive two FM/HD transmitters for improved performance and operating efficiency. Each output can provide both HD Radio and/or analog FM modulation, so you can configure the system for your optimal combining method. When coupled with the FlexStar Boost-Pro accessory, you can effortlessly drive dual transmitters and eliminate complex RF-phasing hardware, reducing costly components and ongoing maintenance. The compact size of the FlexStar HDx exciter also eliminates the need for a deep rack.
A Cost-Effective and Flexible Migration Path
For customers needing a new transmitter, but not quite ready to go to HD Radio, Harris has a solution. Purchase an HD Radio-ready transmitter with a FlexStar HDx analog exciter today, and then simply add a Harris exporter and Exgine upgrade card when you wish to commence HD Radio operation. No other system provides a seamless upgrade path with the power of RTAC.
Integrated Stereo, Dual SCA and RBDS Generators
A multitude of built-in features, such as a digital stereo generator with adjustable composite limiter, two frequency-agile SCA generators and a static RBDS generator, eliminate the need for costly outboard equipment.
A Complete End-to-End Solution
Only Harris can provide everything needed for the transition to digital radio — from studio to transmission and everything in-between. And our systems team is available to help put together the system that makes the most sense for any operation — now and in the future.
Ultimate Performance and Flexibility
The FlexStar HDx exciter brings HD Radio to the next level, with performance that is unrivaled and key features that ensure your investment in HD pays off today and tomorrow.
Investment Security Based on Unrivaled Digital Experience
HD Radio is not only a safe and wise investment — it's also a whole new technology ballgame. As broadcasting's DTV and DAB (Eureka 147) transmission leader, Harris has developed a solid core competency backed by years of experience in the complex technical areas that are essential for maximum HD Radio performance. And we’ve put this expertise to the test by providing transmitters for every major HD Radio test, including multicasting, since the beginning.
For HD Radio implementation, the FlexStar HDE-200 embedded HD Radio exporter, powered by next-generation technology, is required. This exporter offers the simplest and most cost-effective transition to HD Radio available. The iBiquity HD codec and encoding algorithms of the HD Radio system are located in the exporter, enabling connection to the Exgine exciter and the HDI-200 importer for advanced applications, such as supplemental audio channels (multicast) and additional data services. The FlexStar HDx exciter requires an IP feed from the exporter to the exgine card for HD radio applications. iBiquity Digital has published HD Radio Data networking requirements to assist stations in the implementation.
Images/Diagrams
HDE-200 Block Diagrams
HDE-200 Front Module
HDE-200 Back Module
FlexStar Block Diagram
FlexStar Back Module
Specifications
Specifications and designs are subject to change without notice.
| General | |
| Power Output Range, Main Output | 1 W to 55 W for FM mode;
0.5 W to 20 W for FM+HD mode; 0.2 W to 10 W for HD mode, each adjustable from front panel, via remote IO and remote GUI Mode independent from aux output |
| Power Output Range, Aux Output | -30 to +3 dBm (2 mW) into 50 ohms
Requires Harris FlexStar Boost Pro to drive transmitter Modulation independent of main output Mode independent from main output |
| RF Output Impedance | 50 ohms, unbalanced (BNC) |
| VSWR | 1.9:1 at rated power
Open and short circuit protected at all phase angles |
| RF Harmonic and Spurious Suppression | Internal harmonic filter meets or exceeds all FCC, IC, CE, CCIR and IEC215 requirements
Meets or exceeds standard NRSC-5A emission limits in all modes |
| Frequency Range | 87.5-108.0 MHz, programmable in 10 kHz steps |
| Frequency Stability | ±150 Hz, 0° to 50° C using high-accuracy internal (59.535 MHz) TCXO
10 MHz input for synchronization to external (GPS) reference Automatic switching to internal oscillator if external reference fails |
| External Frequency Control | Parallel I/O control of up to eight frequencies and modulation setups
Unlimited frequency selection via optional N+1 controller |
| Modulation Types | FM digitally synthesized direct to channel,
HD digital direct to channel, FM+HD digital direct to channel |
| Operating Modes | "On-the-Fly" switching among FM only, HD only, FM+HD and Split Level in any combination on either of 2 RF outputs |
| FM Modulation Capability | Greater than ±300 kHz |
| Modulation Indication | Auto-ranging (14% / 140% full scale) GUI modulation display with peak hold |
| Asynchronous AM S/N Ratio | 75 dB minimum below equivalent 100% amplitude modulation by 400 Hz using 75 μs de-emphasis (no FM modulation present) |
| Synchronous AM S/N Ratio | 60 dB minimum below equivalent 100% amplitude modulation with 75 μs de-emphasis and 400 Hz high-pass filter (FM deviation 75 kHz by a 1 kHz sine wave)
Measured at wideband input |
| Diagnostics | Front-panel 1/4 VGA color touch-sensitive Graphical User Interface |
| AC Input Power | 90 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz, 260 W max |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0° to 45° C, derated 2° C per 1000 ft Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL) |
| Humidity | 95% non-condensing |
| Altitude | 15,000 ft. (4,573 m) |
| Dimensions (H X W X D) | 7 x 19 x 12.5 in. (17.8 x 48.3 x 31.8 cm), slide-out mounting rails included |
| Mounting | Standard 19 in. (48.3 cm) EIA rack with optional rackmount adapter |
| Weight | 22.1 lbs (10 kg) |
| Input/Output Specifications | |
| AES3 Audio Inputs | 2 auto-switching AES3 inputs, female XLR, 110 ohms balanced; -2.8 dBfs nominal; GUI adjustable level from 0 dBfs to -15 dBfs in 0.1 dB steps for ±75 kHz deviation; input sample rate 32 to 96 kHz |
| Analog L/R Inputs | Female XLR, >10K ohms, balanced, resistive; default level is +10 dBu for ±75 kHz deviation. Level GUI adjustable from -10 dBV |
| Analog Composite Input | 2 BNC inputs (one balanced, one unbalanced); Balanced impedance is 10K ohms or 50 ohms (selectable); Unbalanced is 10K ohms; Input level: 3.5 V P-P for ±75 kHz deviation; Adjustable 2 to 5 V pk-pk |
| SCA Audio Inputs | 2 inputs combined on one 5-pin XLR-female connector (mating male connector supplied); >10K ohms balanced, resistive; +10 dBV nominal for ±6 kHz of FM sub-carrier |
| External SCA inputs | 2 BNC female, unbalanced; >10K ohms; 1.5 V pk-pk nominal for ±7.5 kHz (10%) deviation of main carrier; adjustable from 1 to 4 V pk-pk |
| External 10 MHz Clock Input | BNC female, unbalanced, 50 ohms, -10 dBm to +10 dBm |
| External 1 PPS Clock Input | BNC female, unbalanced, 50 ohms, TTL level |
| User Remote Interface | Sub-D 25-pin female |
| Transmitter Interface | Sub-D 15-pin female |
| N+1 Interface | Sub-D 25-pin female |
| RF Sample Out | BNC jack, -40 dBc, post harmonic filter |
| RF Output | 2 BNC female connectors; main RF channel and auxiliary RF channel
19 kHz Pilot Sync Output: BNC female, unbalanced, 50 ohms resistive, sinewave, phase adjustable, AC coupled, 4.5 V pk-pk nominal, unterminated |
| Communication Ports | 2 Sub-D 9-pin female; RS-232 protocol, for RBDS or VT-100 data |
| Ethernet Ports | 2 RJ-45 on main processor board;
2 RJ-45 on Exgine board (HD version only); all Ethernet ports 10/100; supports static or dynamic IP address |
| USB Port | Front-panel USB type-A connector; USB 1.1 /2.0 compliant; supports configuration save/restore and software updates via flash drive |
| RF Sample Inputs | 2 digital precorrection inputs, SMA female, unbalanced 50 ohms, resistive, maximum input is +5 dBm average in HD mode, maximum is +9 dBm average in FM or FM+HD mode |
| Stereo Generator Performance (AES3 or analog inputs) | |
| Modes | Stereo, Mono L+R, Mono L, and Mono R; remote controllable |
| Pre-emphasis | Selectable 0, 25, 50, or 75 microseconds |
| Stereo Pilot Tone | 19 kHz ±0.03 Hz; injection adjustable 0% to 12% in 0.05% steps; Nominal: 9% |
| 38kHz, 57kHz, 76 kHz, 95 kHz Suppression | 80 dB below ±75 kHz deviation |
| Stereo Separation | 80 dB*/60 dB, 10 Hz to 15 kHz |
| Dynamic Stereo Separation | 80 dB*/60 dB, 10 Hz to 15 kHz* |
| Stereo Amplitude Response | ±0.1 dB, 10 Hz to 15 kHz referenced to selected pre-emphasis curve, LPF cutoff selectable |
| Stereo Signal-to-Noise Ratio (L or R) | 85 dB below 100% modulation at 400 Hz; measured in a 10 Hz to 22 kHz bandwidth with 75 μs de-emphasis and DIN “A” weighting |
| Stereo Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.005%*/0.02%, any modulating frequency 10 Hz to 15 kHz, in bandwidth 10 Hz to 22 kHz; with 75 μs de-emphasis |
| Stereo Intermodulation Distortion (L or R) | CCIF: 0.005%*/0.02% Note 1; (14/15 kHz 1:1),
SMPTE: 0.02% (60 and 7000 Hz 1:1) |
| Transient Intermodulation Distortion (DIM | 0.008%*/ 0.02%; (2.96 kHz square wave/14 kHz sinewave modulation) |
| Linear Crosstalk | 90 dB below 100% modulation reference (AES3 Input); L+R to L-R or L-R to L+R due to amplitude and phase matching of L&R channels (10 Hz-15 kHz) |
| Nonlinear Crosstalk | 80 dB below 100% modulation reference; L+R to L-R or L-R to L+R due to distortion products |
| Audio Overshoot | Less than 0.16 dB |
| Mono Performance (AES3 or analog input) | |
| Pre-emphasis | Selectable 0, 25, 50 or 75 microseconds |
| FM Mono Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 100 dB*/94 dB below 100% modulation at 400 Hz; measured in a 10 Hz to 22 kHz bandwidth with 75 μs de-emphasis and DIN “A” weighting |
| Amplitude Response | ±0.05 dB, referenced to selected pre-emphasis curve (no low-pass filter) |
| Mono Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.002%*/0.01% THD, 10 Hz to 22 kHz bandwidth |
| Mono Intermodulation Distortion | CCIF: 0.005% (14/15 kHz 1:1); SMPTE: 0.005% (60/7000 Hz 1:1) |
| Mono Transient Intermodulation Distortion (DIM) | 0.005% (2.96 kHz square wave/14 kHz sine wave) |
| Wideband Analog Input Performance | |
| FM Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 100 dB*/94 dB below ±75 kHz deviation at 400 Hz; measured in a 10 Hz to 100 kHz bandwidth with 75 μs de-emphasis; DIN "A" weighting |
| Amplitude Response | ±0.005 dB 20 Hz to 53 kHz; ±0.03 dB, 53 to 100 kHz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.002%*/.01% THD over stereo sub band (10 Hz to 53 kHz) with 75 microsecond de-emphasis |
| Intermodulation Distortion | CCIF: 0.005% (14/15 kHz, ratio 1:1); SMPTE: 0.005% (60/7000 Hz, Ratio 1:1) |
| Transient Intermodulation Distortion (DIM) | 0.005% (2.96 kHz square wave/14 kHz sinewave modulation) |
| Slew Rate | 11.8 V/μs - symmetrical |
| Phase Response Variation | ±0.05° from linear phase, 10 Hz to 100 kHz |
| Group Delay Variation | ±5 ns, 10 Hz to 53 kHz, ±30 ns, 53 to 100 kHz |
| External SCA, RBDS Performance SCA Format | Externally generated, analog FM subcarriers in the range 53 to 99 kHz |
| SCA sub-band Amplitude Response | ±0.5 dB, 40 to 100 kHz; high-pass filtered |
| SCA Channel FM Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80 dB below +6 kHz subcarrier deviation at 400 Hz with 150 μS de-emphasis |
| Harmonic Distortion | Less than 0.2% in audio passband of SCA generator |
| Intermodulation Distortion | SMPTE (60 and 7000 Hz, 1:1): 0.2% or less, no pre/de-emphasis, SCA generator low-pass filter bypassed |
| Crosstalk, SCA to Stereo | 80 dB below 100% modulation, L or R channel with 75 μs de-emphasis |
| Crosstalk, Stereo to SCA | 80 dB below 100% modulation referenced to ±6 kHz deviation and 150 μs de-emphasis |
| Crosstalk, SCA to SCA | 80 dB below 100% modulation (referenced to +6 kHz deviation and 150 μs de-emphasis per channel) |
| Dual Internal SCA Performance | |
| Pre-emphasis | Selectable: 150 μS, 75 μS, none |
| Amplitude Response | ±0.5 dB, 10 Hz to 7.5 kHz; selectable 4.3 or 7.5 kHz lowpass filter |
| Subcarrier Frequency | 57 to 99 KHz in 1 kHz steps |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80 dB with de-emphasis (150 μS), 65 dB without de-emphasis at ±6 kHz deviation |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.1% 10 Hz to 5 kHz |
| SCA Deviation Capability | ±1 to ±12 kHz; ±-6 kHz default |
| Injection Level | 2 to 20%, adjustable in 0.1% increments |
| Spurious and Harmonic Performance | Second Harmonic: better than 40 dB below subcarrier;
Third Harmonic: better than 45 dB below subcarrier; All other components: 50 Hz to 100 kHz: better than 80 dB below subcarrier |
| RBDS Generator Performance | |
| Functionality | Static field entry |
| Subcarrier Frequency | 57 kHz, ± 0.09 Hz |
| Injection Level | 2 to 20% in 0.1% increments |
| HD Radio Performance | Compliant with iBiquity and NRSC 5A standards |
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HD Radio is a trademark of iBiquity Digital Corp. |
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