Course Title: Manage audio system control networks

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2017

Course Code: VART6419C

Course Title: Manage audio system control networks

School: 345T Media and Communication

Campus: City Campus

Program: C6150 - Advanced Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production)

Course Contact: Program Administration

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4815

Course Contact Email: mcvet@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher

Eneti Warentini
eneti.warentini@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 120

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

In this course you will gain the ability to work with an ever expanding range of data and information technologies which are crucial to employment in the live production industries.

This course will give you the necessary skills and knowledge required to correctly set up, install and operate network connected AV equipment within the live event industry.

The course applies to individuals with competent information and communications technology (ICT) skills, working as network administrators who are required to ensure that appropriate protocols have been installed in networks to allow user functionality and maintenance.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUASOU403 Manage audio system control networks

Element:

1. Determine audio network requirements

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Establish system requirements in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation

1.2 Investigate available system resources and determine capabilities

1.3 Draw accurate system flow charts with all components in correct order

1.4 Allocate audio stage boxes where analogue audio is required

1.5 Determine audio schedules and allow for pre-set system configurations and dynamic system changes

1.6 Discuss and finalise plans for audio system control networks that meet production requirements and timelines

Element:

2. Test and commission network

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Assemble hardware components and network topography according to system needs and safety procedures

2.2 Complete interface with analogue audio as required

2.3 Test network topography and resources to ensure correct functioning

2.4 Commission analogue audio components appropriately

2.5 Activate and implement all DSP system pre-sets

Element:

3. Monitor network

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Crosscheck performance of amplifiers and loudspeakers according to DSP system assignments

3.2 Apply knowledge of data interfacing and protocols to work activities

3.3 Identify problems with network, then take appropriate action or report to relevant colleagues as required

3.4 In consultation with relevant personnel, evaluate effectiveness of audio network operations and note areas for future improvement

Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements.

Through the application of these skills and this knowledge, you will be able to:

  • Select the appropriate hardware for a variety of networking situations
  • Connect these networking devices with the necessary cabling
  • Setup and configure this hardware to function correctly on the network
  • Test all hardware for connectivity and refine for the situation


Details of Learning Activities

In class learning activities include, but are not limited to:
Class delivery (face-to-face lectures):
• Software and equipment operation skills
• Peer-teaching & class presentations
• Class exercises to review discussions/lectures
• Guest lectures
• Group discussions
• Teacher-directed group activities/projects

 

Out of class learning activities include, but are not limited to:
• Online research
• Independent project-based work
• Teacher-directed activities

Classes will be delivered in two separate components; one in each semester.
Semester 1 will concentrate on audio software use.
Semester 2 will concentrate on audio applications around ICT and audio over IP.


Teaching Schedule

Semester 1 - Greg Long

 WK CLASS  ASSESSMENT  
 3  Ableton Live
An introduction to the Ableton Live and Max for Live software programs. These will be the main software applications to be used for the course and all assessments in this course. Students will need to complete independent learning activities outside of the class to attain the requisite competency level. Video resources will be made available to students to achieve this.		    
4  Introduction
A look at key artists and technicians that are current leaders in interactive performance technology;
Explore historic overview of artists and technicians and their contributions to interactive performance technology;
Undertake research to examine the ways in which interactive technologies can be used in music performance.
A quick introduction to MIDI, with particular emphasis on “note on” and continuous control messages, how they can be used to control performance parameters and virtual MIDI instruments in Ableton Live.
A look at how HID, Human Interface Devices, can be used to control performance parameters and virtual MIDI instruments. Look at Makey Makey and how to program it using the online web interface.		  Assessment Task
Explanation of the assessment requirements for this course. The assessment will be worked on both in the classroom and outside the classroom for the duration of the course.
For this assessment students will use Ableton Live Suite, Max for Live, along with a Makey Makey invention board and multiple input devices, create and execute an interactive technology performance.		  
5   Ableton Live
  • Deep dive into the Session View including:
  • Mapping scenes to computer HID inputs, including keyboards and mouses;
  • Using HIDs to control effect parameters;
  • Follow actions in clips; and
  • Recording automation into clips.

Drum, Instrument and Effects Racks:

  • Differences and similarities;
  • Standard Uses;
  • Creative uses; and Macro Controls
  • What they are and what they do;
  • Example uses;
  • Simple mapping and multiple parameter mapping using the M4L device, multimapper;
  • Mapping concepts and continuity between macros;
  • Using macros to change instruments in a single channel;
  • Macro Rack selection with MIDI CC and dummy clips; and
  • Using interactive controllers to control macros.
 Assessment Task (Continued)    
6   In depth look at Makey Makey including:
  • Identifying suitable control inputs;
  • Overcoming inherent limitations of the Makey Makey device
  • Mapping Makey Makey keystrokes into Ableton Live;

Max For Live (M4L)
Introduction the object based programming environment.
Researching existing M4L devices and assess suitability for use within the student’s Live Set.
(Due to the short duration of this course no Max For Live programming will be covered.)

  Assessment Task (Continued)  
7  Ableton Live
MIDI effects for live performance
  • Random - Generation of complex harmony, lead and bass from simple inputs using external interactive inputs.
  • Scale - how to conform incoming MIDI notes to a particular scale
  • Chord - building harmony from random and non-randomised events.
  Assessment Task (Continued)
Identify factors that may affect interactive technologies, such as Wifi interference, and ensure these factors will not adversely affect the planned performance.		  
8   Generative Music
Using Ableton’s MIDI effects to generate music with a minimum of user inputs.
  • Using simple technology interactions to generate “one note songs and loops”; and
  • Using MIDI Effect Racks to create complex generative music from limited input information using interactive technology.


Advanced Effect Routing and Dummy Clips
In conjunction with interactive inputs, use complex and advanced effect routing to change and modify performance parameters.

  Assessment Task (Continued)
Discuss and collaborate in open class discussion progress, problems and proposed solutions to the assessment task.		  
9   IOS and Android Controllers
A look at using Android and iOS apps as interactive input and control devices.

Assessment Task (Continued)
Refine performance based on class discussions and feedback from other students.

Assessment Performance
Performances with interactive technology staged in a live performance environment.

 		  
10  Assessment Performance
Performances with interactive technology staged in a live performance environment.		  Assessment Performance
Performances with interactive technology staged in a live performance environment.		  
11    Assessment Performance
Performances with interactive technology staged in a live performance environment.		  
12  Review
Class discussion of performance including strengths and weakness of chosen technologies and how this choices influenced the performance.		    

 

 

Semester 2 - Eneti Warentini

CLASS

CLASS CONTENT

Lab Class 1

Introduction to and history of broadcast audio technology in Australia

Lab Class 2

Microphone selection and deployment for television sound engineers

Lab Class 3

EVS networked vision/audio recording and replay systems; The broadcast routing switcher

Lab Class 4

Networked post-production systems

Lab Class 5

Broadcast communications systems.

Lab Class 6

Audio for sports broadcasting / Host broadcasting

Lab Class 7

Surround Sound production / Broadcast signal transmission

Lab Class 8

Assessment

Lab Class 9

  Assessment
 Lab Class 10  Review

 

Semester 2 - Jason Allen

 WEEK  CLASS ASSESSMENT
 11

 GUEST LECTURE

NETWORK PROTOCOLS

IP IN AUDIO

  
 12 ASSESSMENT In Class Prac Assessment

 

 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course will involve demonstration of practical tasks and testing of your knowledge.

 


Assessment Tasks

Semester 1:

Assessment 1: (Graded) (Greg Long)

You will be required to create and execute an interactive technology performance. The performance must include interconnecting computer audio hardware connected to the master computer software host.

(Week 10 of semester 1) 

Semester 2:

Assessment 2: (ungraded) (Eneti Warentini)

Practical application project

(Week 10 of semester 2)

Assessment 3: (Graded) (Eneti Warentini)

Knowledge Test

(Week 10 of semester 2)

Assessment 4: (Ungraded) (Jason Allen)

Practical test

(Week 12 of semester 2)

 

To demonstrate competency in this course you will need to complete the following assessment to a satisfactory standard.
You will receive feedback on all assessment and once you have demonstrated competency, you will receive a grade for the graded Assessment Task (refer to MyRMIT for grading rubric).

For further information on the grading system and criteria used, please refer to the course blackboard site.
Grades which apply to courses delivered in accordance with competency-based assessment, but which also use graded assessment:

CHD - Competent with High Distinction
CDI - Competent with Distinction
CC - Competent with Credit
CAG - Competency Achieved - Graded
NYC - Not Yet Competent
DNS - Did Not Submit for Assessment


Assessment Matrix

The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These matrices are available through Program Administration.

Other Information

Please refer to the RMIT student page for extensive information about study support, assessment, extensions, appeals and a range of other matters: http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students

Cover Sheet for Submissions:

You must complete and sign a submission cover sheet for every piece of submitted work, including online submissions.

http://mams.rmit.edu.au/s1llva641yxuz.pdf

Attendance:

Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises

It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.

Assessment Feedback:

You will receive spoken and written feedback on all your work.  Where relevant, this feedback will also include suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy

Student Progress:

Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy designed to assist you in achieving your learning potential.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/acadprogress

Adjustments to Assessment (eg. applying for an extension of time):

If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment satisfactorily by the due date, you can choose to apply for an adjustment to your assessment. RMIT University offers a range of adjustments designed to support you in your studies, including an extension of time to complete the assessment.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/adjustment

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:

RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/academic-integrity

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:

Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.

Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) RCC applies only if you have previously successfully demonstrated competence in a unit of competency, and now require to be reassessed to ensure that the competence is being maintained.

Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer, RPL, or RCC for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.

http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit

 

Course Overview: Access Course Overview