Genelec integrated amplifiers will now have electronic activity detection circuitry built in. This Intelligent Signal-Sensing (ISS) monitors the input connectors and detects if the monitor or loudspeaker is in use. If voltage swings are large enough to be considered that of above standard audio outputs, the product will continue to function. However, if the ISS circuit is not finding any audio on the input for a period of time, ISS automatically puts the loudspeaker amplifier to a low-power sleep state where the loudspeaker will consume less than 0.5 watts of power.
"The typical idle state power consumption of an active loudspeaker, or any other audio amplifier system, is between 10 and 20 watts," says Lars-Olof Janflod, marketing and public relations director at Genelec. "If left in standby, this level of consumption is maintained by the amplifier system and released as heat. Over time this can total a significant amount which results in both negative fiscal and environmental costs."
Upon entering the low-power sleep state, power feed is removed from most of the electronic parts of the system and, crucially no heat is generated. When an audio signal is later detected on the input, the loudspeaker amplifier immediately turns itself on, silently, and immediately continues working with full accuracy.
The ISS monitoring system starts saving power as soon as work is interrupted. The setup is fully automated, meaning end-users do not need to remember to turn loudspeakers off for the ISS circuitry to save power. This new system not only presets environmental benefits but is also good for the safe running and the long term reliability of Genelec loudspeakers.
(Jim Evans)
