The Belar AMMA-2 is a DSP-based microprocessor-controlled, digital AM modulation monitor/analyzer that precisely measures positive and negative peak modulation, peaks per minute, average peak modulation, modulation density, and more. In addition to monitoring standard AM modulation, the AMMA-2 accurately monitors modulation-dependent carrier level (MDCL) AM transmissions. During MDCL broadcasts, the RF carrier level becomes a dynamic component of the AM signal. The AMMA-2 tracks the carrier, capturing the highest and lowest values of the carrier level, as well as the decibel ratio of the carrier high/low. Modulation readings are referenced to the carrier level appropriate for the MDCL system in use. The optional remote meter panel displays positive modulation, negative modulation, and carrier level simultaneously on three large analog meters.
The AMMA-2 features user-defined parameters and settings for maximum flexibility. Two large UP/DOWN menu keys are used to cycle the 16-character alphanumeric display to the desired menu; the UP/DOWN parameter keys are then used to select the desired setting. The unit configuration may be saved to the on-board non-volatile memory so the settings are retained in the event of a power loss.
A noise menu selection displays rms-detected SNR in decibels (flat or de-emphasized) on the front panel.
A carrier cutoff indicator consisting of three front panel LEDs continuously monitors the approach of negative modulation to carrier cutoff.
A unique "Normal Modulation" indicator shows when modulation is falling within user-defined parameters.
A built-in Audio Sentry audio failure alarm alerts you to loss of modulation or drops in modulation level.
An RS-232/RS-422 port allows the AMMA-2 to be accessed via personal computer. The ASCII command set, documented in the users manual, provides an easy way for users to write their own command and control software. Alternately, the AMMA-2 will be supported in the future by The Wizard Software, which provides unit control and graphing and logging capability for all the AMMA-2 measurements.
A remote alarm connector consisting of 8 pairs of relay contacts provides alarm status information for hard-wired applications. NRSC de-emphasis may be selected internally by moving a jumper plug.