BlueClone - The Blue Room's Own Comms System

[boatman]

Yes, BlueCom works fine with both Tecpro and Stonewood (Granite) beltpacks. I had a test system using two each of all three types together and it worked perfectly. There have been several iterations of the schematic, the latest being version 1.3 (see here), which has the four-pole 3.5mm socket available on a four-pin header for your own connection. Earlier versions were connected as: Tip + Ring 1 - Headphone out, Ring 2 Mic & Sleeve - GND. Note that there is a DC offset of half the supply rail on the headphone output on that socket. It really needs a large decoupling capacitor, which is why version 1.3 was introduced.

 

As a result of the requests of Blue-Roomers, there are three unique features in BlueCom which you won't find in the other systems. Firstly, the mic gain is switchable over a considerable range to accommodate different mic types. Secondly, the low impedance headset capability is because there is bridge amplifier driving the output. It means the headset volume will go much higher. Finally, there is an offset in the volume control (R37) which if set to a higher value than the 10R on the schematic will limit the minimum headset volume so that it can't be turned down to zero.

 

Sorry, I don't have any blank PCBs available but, I know of several sets which have been built and there may be some around. Otherwise, the PCBs can be ordered from iTead in China very cheaply.

 

I hope that helps.

[dbuckley]

They have a 4pin 3.5mm jack on them, using the screen as a common for both the left/Right channels and the Mic. I seem to have found that when plugging this into the AD903 it does not like it at all and I have had a whole host of issues, ie, cross talk between the headphones and microphone, a very quiet level from both the microphone/headphones and the return from the ring. ... In theory this should be straight forward as I am using a 4 pin XLR to 4pin jack and connecting as per the AD903 "unbalanced connector instructions". I think the problem I am having is the combined screen.

 

 

I cant find the diagram you refer to, but, the data sheet specifies that the AD903 inputs and output are transformer isolated, and "balanced and floating", so there should be no issues from a common ground from the AD903 perspective if wired correctly.

 

Also, and again from memory, the Bluecomm has a header connector on it which provides and input and output like the AD903 does, albeit not transformer isolated and balanced, but that should be fine for your application, if the levels can be made to match.

Edited January 28, 2016 by dbuckley

[michaelyallop]

1454010801[/url]' post='534047']

1453998798[/url]' post='534034']

They have a 4pin 3.5mm jack on them, using the screen as a common for both the left/Right channels and the Mic. I seem to have found that when plugging this into the AD903 it does not like it at all and I have had a whole host of issues, ie, cross talk between the headphones and microphone, a very quiet level from both the microphone/headphones and the return from the ring. ... In theory this should be straight forward as I am using a 4 pin XLR to 4pin jack and connecting as per the AD903 "unbalanced connector instructions". I think the problem I am having is the combined screen.

 

 

I cant find the diagram you refer to, but, the data sheet specifies that the AD903 inputs and output are transformer isolated, and "balanced and floating", so there should be no issues from a common ground from the AD903 perspective if wired correctly.

 

I thought this too, but something seems to be cause it to not work too well. I have tried with both, the screen from headphones and the screen from the mic connected either together or just a single screen but still no luck. I'm quite confused at the moment to be honest. I'm going to have to stop and think about it a bit more.

 

Thanks

 

1454002028[/url]' post='534036']

Yes, BlueCom works fine with both Tecpro and Stonewood (Granite) beltpacks. I had a test system using two each of all three types together and it worked perfectly. There have been several iterations of the schematic, the latest being version 1.3 (see here), which has the four-pole 3.5mm socket available on a four-pin header for your own connection. Earlier versions were connected as: Tip + Ring 1 - Headphone out, Ring 2 Mic & Sleeve - GND. Note that there is a DC offset of half the supply rail on the headphone output on that socket. It really needs a large decoupling capacitor, which is why version 1.3 was introduced.

 

As a result of the requests of Blue-Roomers, there are three unique features in BlueCom which you won't find in the other systems. Firstly, the mic gain is switchable over a considerable range to accommodate different mic types. Secondly, the low impedance headset capability is because there is bridge amplifier driving the output. It means the headset volume will go much higher. Finally, there is an offset in the volume control (R37) which if set to a higher value than the 10R on the schematic will limit the minimum headset volume so that it can't be turned down to zero.

 

Sorry, I don't have any blank PCBs available but, I know of several sets which have been built and there may be some around. Otherwise, the PCBs can be ordered from iTead in China very cheaply.

 

I hope that helps.

 

Thanks for this boatman. I think I'm going to build a few I think as we could do with a few more.

 

I just need to gather all the schematics and board files together first. It should be a good project to get sorted.

 

Thanks again

 

 

 

[jmvbmw]

Hi Guys!

 

 

Just passed here to say hello, and give some feedback about the BlueCom's

 

After use it in at least 2 show per month, they have zero faults, no problems at all.

 

The only minor issue, is in one unit who the PPT switch fail. So, it is not a BueCom problem, just a provider material fail.

 

I bought Clear-Com headsets, and the sound is very clear and loud. We had use it in very noise environment, with outstanding performance

 

Again, thank you very much!!

 

Cheers!

[LUXFactor]

Hats off indeed to all those in making Blue-Com a reality - very impressive indeed.

So, having spent the morning reading all the posts from "light bulb" to reality on BlueCom, I am of no doubt that you guys will have the answer to, and may be interested in, my "challenge" to Comms tech'.

Like most, my ears (yes, right as well as left on dual or reversible) cannot take the forced sweating etc., from closed ear headsets any longer. I haven't been going down the PC headset line in fear of unbearable incompatibility on-ring, with others.

Instead I have headed towards the professional telephony headsets that were heavily researched and developed by BT/ Armed forces/ NASA etc. Commercially available from manufacturer Plantronics, via distributors, these outstanding COMFORTABLE lightweight headsets, are heaven on a stick as you would expect, but you can literally forget you are wearing them.

Various styles exists, but the core design is, inner ear tube or mould with small glass L-shaped tube to the mouth (yes other outer-ear foam types are indeed available, looking like Some PC sets, but I am describing the need for absolute, not partial, comms monitoring talkback feeds)But, those who know, will be aware of the problem/challenge.

Through exceptional research and enquiry, I have managed to tie down some data you folks will need, as immediate compatibility with pre-BlueCom systems is not available for plug & play because:

• Plantronics online adaptor is flat-unique four pole connection
• Various adaptors are available to feed headset including "Apple" 3.5mm that works stunningly well even though..

• The electret condenser microphone requires 1.5-2.2v DC
• Microphone impedance 250R
• Microphone sensitivity-39.0dBPa/V

• Earpiece sensitivity 13dBPa/V
• LF response 200R
• HF response 4kHz
• Impedance 150R
• Acoustic limit 24 dBA
• Pin-out 1:Ear Gnd; 2-Mic+; 3-Mic Gnd; 4-Ear+

Workshop made adapters XLR4 for Tecpro plug-in of course result in comms in from ring, but of course silence from the mic, as it doesn't have the volts to drive the condenser (yes, the iPhone truly feeds the voltage!)

eBay has had a dearth of these Plantronics units recently at silly cheap money, nowhere near the £180+ retail costs, and so I have stocked up in readiness and hope that you wizards of electronics can assist in concluding the jigsaw...

1. Presumably BlueCom via bias dip switches will happily accommodate this industrial type of earpiece via either XLR4 or off the shelf iPhone type adapter?

2. How, what, for immediate use on a TecPro, can, a battery wired across the mic of the headset cause the mic to operate? Or equivalent? If so how?

I shall be asking my electronics chums to fabricate me a Blue-Com regardless, but in the interim, and as I own my own personal TecPro BP111, is there anything that can be "done" to adapt it for use on that first? And if needs be, it can be assumed that this headset will be the only one used in the pack.

Sorry to waffle on, but I prefer to front load with info first, and then hope there's enough for you guys to chew over.....

By the way, changing the subject, but very exciting, I may well have an off-the shelf reasonable industrial solution to the annoyance that is Radio Comms, interoperability,industrial resistance and reasonable cost. I am talking to both a supplier and a manufacturer who were unaware of the needs of entertainment, and are, under my suggestions, conducting some field trials first, before they want to commit to openly agreeing that my evidenced idea works..... Standby please readers!

Sorry, I can't figure out how to add photos currently....doh! Apols, will do if I fathom/guided or encouraged ,

Here's hoping your appetites are whetted....

MDF

 

 

[MarkPAman]

1471442442[/url]' post='541624']

Sorry, I can't figure out how to add photos currently....doh! Apols, will do if I fathom/guided or encouraged ,

 

 

 

Posting pictures (and other stuff)

[CPlater1]

Is anyone looking at making these? I'm definitely interested in getting some PCBs made up.

[LUXFactor]

1471446778[/url]' post='541625']

1471442442[/url]' post='541624']

Sorry, I can't figure out how to add photos currently....doh! Apols, will do if I fathom/guided or encouraged ,

 

 

 

Posting pictures (and other stuff)

 

How kind, thank you MarkPAman! My radar thinks you are not too far from me too..... Small world...

I've created a bespoke folder on the Gargle drive, and hope that the link below allows you folks to see what I am on about and observe the project box that is purely passive currently, but could, if you decree it so, be the housing for electret power for a TecPro segue, pre BlueCom...... If it doesn't link, it'll have to wait a while, as blood pressure needs calming!

http://https//drive.google.com/open?id=0B2t168MNZWwBTnF2dHNrOWZCR28

 

 

[MarkPAman]

Try this!

[kgallen]

Is anyone looking at making these? I'm definitely interested in getting some PCBs made up.

 

I've got some Beltpack v1.3 PCBs on order with iTead at the moment. Might be getting some PSU and front panel PCBs done too. Will have some spares. (And I'm probably just up the road from you...)

Kevin

[LUXFactor]

1471480674[/url]' post='541634']

Try this!

 

I'll return to my cave and carry on inventing a sqwheel.... (Carry On film....) thanks again !

[boatman]

I still have five version 1.1 power unit PCBs (with minor surgery), three version 1 power unit panels, a single version 2 beltpack panel and a complete version 1.1 beltpack board (built and tested).

 

The boards and panels are available for only £3 each + £2.50 postage (within the UK) for any number. The complete beltpack board is £30 + £5 postage (recorded delivery within the UK).

 

Photos below. Click on any picture for a larger version.

 

http://mydesk.myzen.co.uk/_Useful/BlueCom/BluecomPsu1_1a_wee.jpg http://mydesk.myzen.co.uk/_Useful/BlueCom/BluecomPsu1_1b_wee.jpg http://mydesk.myzen.co.uk/_Useful/BlueCom/BluecomPsu1_1c_wee.jpg http://mydesk.myzen.co.uk/_Useful/BlueCom/BluecomBpPanel_wee.jpg http://mydesk.myzen.co.uk/_Useful/BlueCom/BluecomBpFinished_wee.jpg

[kgallen]

Anyone know where to get the buttons for the ALPS switches these days? Farnell no longer stock them. Nothing on CPC or Canford either.

 

http://uk.farnell.com/alps/pb0150000w/cap-standard-white/dp/1123887

 

Any suggested part for the volume control knob?

 

Thanks,

Kevin

[Sound Man]

If you haven't managed to find a source for the switch caps yet, Rapid have some square or round ones available. You will have to modify the front panel thou.

 

The square one are available here and round ones are available here.

 

David

[kgallen]

Thanks for that SoundMan.

I have the proper Bluecom panels and I think this would be quite a hack to fit these, and maybe there isn't even space for a button this size. Thanks for posting though, appreciated.

Kevin