Remote Audio BDSv4 Battery Distribution
The Remote Audio BDSv4 Battery Distribution system consists of a reverse-polarity protected and overload protected distribution box with illuminated bi-colour on/off switch, six standard outlets, a power source (typically a rechargeable battery such as the NP-1), an input cable, and output cables to the devices being powered.
The primary purpose of the BDS system is to enable multiple pieces of equipment to be powered by a single source, and simultaneously turn them on and off with a single switch. For this basic function, the BDSv4 may be used exactly like the earlier BDS versions that it replaces. The input and output connections are the same, so all previous BDS input and output cables manufactured by Remote Audio are compatible with the BDSv4.
CONNECTORS AND CABLES
The outlet connectors on the BDS box are a special switching type that requires a long-shaft mating plug with a 2.5mm hole. This connector set was chosen for its strength and so that unused (exposed) outlets on the box are not active until a cable with the proper mating connector is plugged into it, helping prevent accidental short circuits. Output cables by Remote Audio are manufactured specifically for use with the BDS and come with unique low-profile right-angle locking connectors. Therefore, it is recommended that only Remote Audio brand output cables be used. The polarity of the outlets is “centre positive”. Y-cables are available for connecting more than six devices to your BDS unit. Input cables, battery adapters and AC-DC adapters are also available from Remote Audio.
SWITCH VS. UNSWITCHED OUTLET
The indicated outlet can be either “switched” or “unswitched.” “Switched” means that the outlet turns off and on via the main toggle switch. “Unswitched” means that the outlet is always on when power is present. The factory default for that outlet is “unswitched.” This feature is often desired for the audio mixer. For example, in this configuration, when only the mixer and boom mic are needed, turning off the BDS box will turn everything off (receivers, etc.) except for the mixer. This is a convenient way to turn off unnecessary items and extend the life of the battery. The status of the outlet can be easily reversed to “switched” by sliding the nearby switch using a toothpick or jeweler’s screwdriver. Note: When using a metal tool to change the switch position, make sure the BDS is powered off to eliminate the possibility of short-circuits.
LOW BATTERY INDICATOR
The illuminated toggle switch is a bi-color type that indicates when your power source (typically a battery) falls below a certain voltage level. This threshold voltage is selectable via a switch on the face of the BDSv4.
Three voltages are available for use with the most common battery chemistries:
- 13V – for Lithium-Ion
- 11.5V – for Nickel-Metal Hydride* (* default factory setting)
- 11V – for Lead Acid (“Gel Cells”)
When the battery voltage falls below the selected threshold, the illuminated toggle will switch from Green to Red.
REVERSE POLARITY PROTECTION
As a protective feature for devices being powered, in the event that an input cable or battery adapter is miswired, the BDSv4 will not pass reverse polarity voltage to its outputs. Unlike some reverse polarity protection circuits, the BDS circuit does not cause a voltage drop during normal operation.
NOISE AND SHARED POWER SYSTEMS
Thousands of satisfied field audio professionals are using the BDS system to power their equipment. However, it is possible to have unwanted audible noise induced into audio systems by a common (shared) power source. To optimize your system, it is recommended to use line level signals instead of mic level signals whenever practical. Also, turn phantom voltage off of all preamp inputs that are connected to non-microphone devices. If noise is still heard, unplug one device at a time from the BDS box to determine the cause. Notice any change in noise associated with the removal of each device. If the noise goes away after unplugging a particular device, try powering that device with a separate battery. If using a separate battery causes the noise to go away, then the problem is a ground loop associated with the combination of a common power source and audio grounding schemes.
