Abstract: A control device for an audio processor has a plurality of sets of function select controls and a function control section on its control device. Each set of the plurality of sets of function select controls is coupled with a corresponding channel in a plurality of channels associated with the audio processor. The sets include select switches for a predetermined set of functions which are executable in the corresponding channels. The select switches have first and second states which are visually distinguishable by an operator. The plurality of sets of function select controls are arranged on the control panel in a row, and the select switches in the plurality of sets are arranged in respective single columns within the plurality of sets so that the select switches for a particular function across the plurality of channels form a single band on the control panel.

Abstract: A rotary control for control surface on a processor, like on a large scale audio mixer or other system, includes an illuminated display for angular position, such as lights arranged in an arcuate pattern indicating the value of a parameter by an angular position, on the top of the knob. By placing the display directly on the top of the knob, a crisp illumination is provided allowing an operator to obtain rapid visual feedback concerning the parameters under control. Furthermore, the display allows a variety of display modes, which are suited to the particular parameter under control. The rotary control comprises a stator mounted on the control surface which has a proximal end adjacent to control surface and a distal end. An array of lights is mounted on the distal end of the stator and arranged in an arcuate pattern. A rotor is mounted on the stator, and operable by an operator. The rotor has a shape near the distal end so that the array of lights is visible to the operator.

Abstract: A control panel for digital input having multiple rotary knobs without absolute minimum and maximum settings feeds knob position information back to an operator by providing a display of the knobs with position indicators. The display is updated according to real adjustment of the knobs. This arrangement allows the knobs to be assigned to different inputs and the apparent positions of the knobs to be changed without requiring moving the real knobs. In a preferred embodiment the control system is applied to an audio mixer panel.

Abstract: A control panel for digital input having multiple rotary knobs without absolute minimum and maximum settings feeds knob position information back to an operator by providing a display of the knobs with position indicators. The display is updated according to real adjustment of the knobs. This arrangement allows the knobs to be assigned to different inputs and the apparent positions of the knobs to be changed without requiring moving the real knobs. In a preferred embodiment the control system is applied to an audio mixer panel.

Abstract: A digital audio gain control system has an operator interface with a CPU, RAM storage, and input devices for a user to store transfer characteristics relating gain to be applied to an incoming audio signal to the signal strength of that incoming signal. A communication link allows the transfer characteristic function to be sent to a RAM in a separate patchable amplifier unit having a DSP and RAM, and level detection circuitry for monitoring the signal strength of an incoming audio signal and applying gain according to the transfer characteristic communicated to the on-board RAM. The amplifier unit also sends operating information back to the operator interface, where operation may be displayed to aid an operator in adjusting the function.

Abstract: A pushbutton assembly for panel arrays of pushbuttons has a pushbutton assembly comprising an LED extended through a guide bushing and connected to a first printed circuit board. The guide bushing is mounted to the first printed circuit board. A movable cover over the LED has pins extending through guide bores in the guide bushing with an actuator plate mounted to the pins on the opposite side of the first printed circuit board from the cover. A second printed circuit board spaced apart from the first has spring-loaded pushbutton switches mounted thereto, with the spacing such that pressing on the cover activates the pushbutton switch by means of the activator plate. The assembly of two boards may have any convenient array of switches assembled thereon, with the switch signals routed on one board and the driving signals for the LEDs routed on the other. The assembly of printed circuit boards is mounted with the covers protruding through a panel to present an array of lightable switch covers to an operator.