DTS Cinema Support FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
General
- What does DTS stand for?
- What does DTS do for cinemas?
- What does DTS digital sound do for cinemas?
- How does THX relate to DTS?
- How does DTS work?
- Why won’t the DTS audio or Access discs play in a CD player?
- Why won’t the DTS audio or Access discs play in a computer?
- Will DVDs play in the DTS cinema system? How about those that have "DTS" printed on them?
- Will DTS music CDs play in the DTS cinema system?
- What should I do with the discs after the movie has finished playing at my theater?
- Can I keep the DTS audio discs?
- Is the DTS system patented?
- What does the warranty cover?
- What is the repair/exchange policy?
- How do I return items to DTS?
- What type of promotional items does DTS have?
- How do I get DTS Trailer Discs?
- What does DTS "pre-show" mean?
- How does DTS playback video in cinemas?
- Can DTS playback HD (high definition) video?
- How can I determine what options are installed in my XD10?
- Why do I have to register to gain access to the DTS Online TechCenter?
- How do I get part numbers and pricing?
- What information should be on a purchase order?
- How can I service a DTS-6 (2-drive) unit?
- How do I get a manual?
- What is needed to play in DTS cinema content?
Technical
- What considerations should be taken into account for DTS in a closed or multi-unit rack-mounted installation?
- What speaker specifications are needed for DTS digital?
- What are the DTS system specifications?
- How do I install DTS equipment?
- Any special considerations for subwoofer as it relates to DTS?
- Why does there seem to be DTS subwoofer signal in the surrounds?
- How do I set DTS playback levels?
- How do I get a setup disc?
- How is the DTS reader calibrated?
- How can I find out the latest software version?
- How do I calculate the offset (delay)?
- How do I test the DTS automatic default functions?
- How does the DTS System effect other Cinema Processors?
- Which brackets do I use to install the DTS reader?
- How do I use the DTS Empirical Test disc?
- Troubleshooting Tips
- How Does DTS70mm Work?
- Can I install a DTS 35mm and DTS 70mm reader at the same location on the projector?
- Is there fail-safe operation for DTS 70mm?
- How do I prepare a (pre-show) video for DTS cinema playback?
- What DTS equipment is capable of Networking?
- What kind of external hardware is required for Network capabilities in the XD10?
- What are XD10 option keys?
- How do I enable captions in the XD10 or DTS-CSS?
- How do I load content into the XD10 or DTS-CSS? How do I get it to play?
- How do I copy settings from one DTS unit to another?
- How can I encode a film into DTS?
- I can’t read the front display panel on the DTS unit. Do I have to replace it?
What does DTS stand for?
DTS, Inc. (Nasdaq: DTSI) is a digital technology company dedicated to delivering the ultimate entertainment experience. DTS decoders are in virtually every major brand of 5.1-channel surround processors, and there are hundreds of millions of DTS-licensed consumer electronics products available worldwide. A pioneer in multi-channel audio, DTS technology is in home theatre, car audio, PC and game console products, as well as DVD-Video, Surround Music and DVD-ROM software. DTS audio products are featured on more than 27,000 motion picture screens worldwide. Additionally, DTS provides imaging technology and services for the motion picture industry; DTS Digital Images, formerly Lowry Digital Images, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DTS and an industry leader in image restoration and enhancement. Founded in 1993, DTS is headquartered in Agoura Hills, California and has offices in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan and China. For further information, please visit www.dts.com.DTS is a registered trademark of DTS, Inc.
What does DTS do for cinemas?
DTS, the leading digital sound company, is now a leading digital entertainment company, with emergent capabilities and resources to integrate and support a fully digital experience for high quality cinema presentations.
DTS’ expanded range of products and services are founded upon our proven expertise in the creation and delivery of digital media for cinema, and have been developed to meet the opportunities and challenges of the industry transition to a digital entertainment platform. Our content creation and delivery tools for D-cinema and E-cinema, as well as media network systems, offer new standards of quality and ease of operation. These tools and systems are designed to define and support new opportunities for increased revenues and efficiencies for content providers and exhibitors.
Alongside the unique advantages of DTS’ single print solution and Access technologies, we provide an extended portfolio of products and services that allow flexibility and easy implementation of the latest delivery, scheduling and presentation solutions for pre-show, advertising, and alternative content.
DTS continues its relentless commitment to partnering with exhibitors in providing value-added products and support in the transition from film to a fully digital entertainment experience.
What does DTS Digital Sound® do for cinemas?
The DTS Digital Sound process for motion pictures is designed for the digital sound release of motion pictures in 6-track theaters. It also allows playback of videos for "pre-show" such as commercials. The playback of digital sound is a dual system where the digital audio data is recorded on CD-ROM discs. A proprietary DTS timecode is printed on the motion picture print along with a conventional stereo optical soundtrack. The timecode is used by the DTS system to synchronize the sound and picture. The timecode lies between the picture and optical sound track, and is printed onto the release print from the soundtrack negative. There is a single inventory of prints.The DTS system provides left, center, right, split surrounds (or mono surround) and subwoofer channels. The DTS system is completely automatic and fail-safe in operation requiring no action by the projectionist. DTS automatically starts and stops, and tracks film breaks and changeovers. The digital audio data is sampled at 44.1 kK samples per second. Transfer into the process can be made from conventionally mixed analog or digital sound masters.
How does THX relate to DTS?
THX certifies sound equipment and theater sound system performance. DTS actually delivers the soundtrack and the equipment used to play back the 6–track digital surround sound. DTS is not affiliated with THX.How does DTS work?
The DTS system consists of two main components: The player and the reader. The player connects to a theater’s existing sound system, cinema processor, video projector, and Internet. DTS audio discs are produced by DTS and contain the 6-track surround sound mix. DTS-Access discs are also made for films that contain descriptive narration and/or captions for front, on-screen, or rear display (i.e, open and closed). Access content is determined by the Film Distributor. For each feature, special DTS timecode is printed on the motion picture film. Once the film is started, the DTS reader sees the timecode and sends the information to the DTS player. The timecode tells the player what to play on the discs. Each feature has its own unique timecode ensuring that only the matching discs play with the film. Films released in DTS Digital Sound also contain a traditional analog soundtrack that serves as a back-up sound source. If a problem occurs in the DTS digital system, the DTS player automatically switches the cinema processor out of the digital format and into analog sound.Why won’t the DTS audio or Access discs play in a CD player?
DTS cinema and Access discs require special software to play back in a cinema environment.Why won’t the DTS audio or Access discs play in a computer?
DTS cinema and Access discs can only be played back in a cinema environment equipped with DTS.Will regular DVD movie discs play in the DTS cinema system? What about discs that have "DTS" printed on them?
No. Only DTS cinema or Access discs will play in the DTS system in a theater. Commercially available DVDS or CDs will not play in a DTS cinema system.Will DTS music CDs play in the DTS cinema system?
No. Only DTS cinema or Access discs will play in the DTS system in a theater. Commercially available DVDS or CDs will not play in a DTS cinema system.What should I do with the discs after the movie has finished playing at my theater?
Simply return the disc(s) with the film that is delivered in the cans or other container. The discs should be returned back to the studio depot with the print.Can I keep the DTS audio discs?
No, the discs should be returned with the print. The discs are legal property of the studio or content provider, not DTS.Is the DTS system patented?
The DTS system has been granted many patents. Please see specific product manuals for the patents that apply.What does the warranty cover?
Equipment manufactured by DTS is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one to three years from date of purchase (see product manual for its specific warranty time period). There are no other express or implied warranties.DTS’ obligation is restricted to repair and replacement of defective parts. Under no circumstances will DTS be liable for any other damage, either direct or consequential.
All requests for repairs or replacements should be directed to your DTS hardware dealer. DTS does not sell direct to theaters.
What is the repair/exchange policy?
All customers must go through their DTS dealer to get a repair/exchange on a defective item. The dealer should be provided the unit’s serial number and a description of the failure. All returning units must get a DTS return authorization (RA) number before they are shipped to DTS.If a new unit becomes defective BEFORE 90 days of service, DTS will do a warranty repair/exchange of the item at no charge.
If the unit is within the warranty period but older than 90 days, DTS will repair and return to customer at no charge. DTS will PROVIDE A repair/exchange for any D600 reader, DTS-6AD cinema processor, DTS-ECP analog processor, and the XD10P analog processor. If the unit is in warranty, it will be at no charge. If it is beyond the warranty, then the dealer will be charged. Contact DTS Customer Service for pricing.
All other units over 90 days old will be serviced as a repair and returned to the customer. Warranty is determined by the unit’s serial number. The serial number is required for all units in need of repair or exchange.
When DTS PROVIDES repair/exchange, we expect that the defective unit or board be returned to us within 90 days. Failure to return an item in that time period will result in the dealer BEING INVOICED for the full value of the item that was not returned.
How can I service a DTS-6 (2-drive) unit?
Any Service Center can repair the DTS-6 player. See the Service Center link to find one near you.How do I get a manual?
All manuals are posted in the DTS Online TechCenter. If a hard copy is needed, it can be purchased from your DTS dealer.What is needed to play back cinema content with DTS?
To play back cinema content with DTS, a theater needs the following hardware: A cinema processor (DTS or compatible), speakers and amps, a DTS player, a reader head, and cables. The media required is a film print and matching DTS cinema discs from the release studio.How do I return items to DTS?
For warranty, repair, exchange or replacement parts, please call your local DTS hardware dealer. Your dealer will request the unit’s model number, serial number, and information on the nature of the failure. Your dealer will then contact DTS for a return authorization (RA) number. Always get a Return Authorization (RA) number before sending anything back to DTS. All return packaging should be clearly marked with THIS number on the outside of the package.For more information, please contact DTS Customer Service at:
DTS Tel: +818-706-3523 or toll free in the USA 800-959-4109
DTS Fax: +818-879-2746
Customer Service email: customerservice@dts.com
Tech support: cinematech@dts.com
What type of promotional items does DTS have?
Complimentary promotional materials are available from DTS. These include:- DTS plaques and signage
- DTS posters
- DTS logo films, available in scope and flat
Contact DTS Customer Service. Promotional items are free to DTS Installed theaters.
How do I get DTS Trailer Discs?
DTS Trailer Discs are issued to theaters from DTS. All trailer titles are written on the disc itself. If you have a DTS encoded trailer but it is not listed on the disc, then your trailer will not play in DTS Digital Sound, but it will play in analog. If you are a DTS theater in the US or Canada – and don't currently receive trailer discs but would like to – please contact DTS Post Production at (818) 706-3525 or email: postagoura@dts.com.Trailer discs free of charge to DTS Theaters in the U.S. and Canada.What does "pre-show"mean?
Pre-show refers to content shown before the feature presentation. The pre-show content usually consists of advertising, special promotions, or music. Coming attractions of unreleased movies are referred to as "trailers" and are usually presented to audiences after the pre-show.How does DTS play back video in cinemas?
Video content can be played back with the DTS XD10 Cinema Media Player, when the unit is equipped with the HD Video option. DTS-encoded content can be loaded via physical media (ie, discs) or downloaded via the Internet using a DTS Cinema Server and network software. The XD10 is capable of playing high definition (HD) video in units made beginning in 2006. DTS is used to deliver video content but does not produce it. The video content does not need to be encoded in DTS.Can DTS playback high definition (HD) video?
Yes, the DTS XD10 Cinema Media Player is capable of playing HD video in those units purchased with the installed HD Video option (available from JULY 2006). At this time, the XD10 is the only DTS product is capable of playing video, HD or otherwise.How can I determine what options are installed in my XD10?
Look at the label on the back of your XD10. All installed options are marked off on the label.Why do I have to register to gain access to the DTS Online TechCenter?
We ask each user to register for free access to the DTS Online TechCenter so that we are able to send product information and updates to DTS cinema customers. All registered information is for DTS use only and will NOT be shared.How do I get part numbers and pricing?
All parts and pricing inquiries should be directed to your DTS dealer. All purchases must be done through a DTS certified dealer. DTS does not sell direct to theaters or technicians.What information should be on a purchase order?
DTS can only accept orders from AUTHORIZED DTS dealers. A purchase order (P.O.) should:- be sent on company letterhead and have a unique P.O. number
- indicate the item number and model you wish to order
- indicate how many of each item you are ordering
- indicate thecinema processor MODEL it is connecting to, if ordering a DTS player (i.e. DTS-6D or XD10)
- indicate if more than one projector is being connected to the DTS unit
- include the shipping address
- indicate the desired date of delivery and preferred shipping method
- provide the serial number of the item in need of replacement (If requesting a replacement item). This is required before a return authorization can be made and a replacement sent.
What considerations should be taken into account for DTS in a closed or multi-unit rack-mounted installation?
- The ambient temperature within the rack may be greater than room ambient temperature. The maximum temperature for the equipment in this environment is 50°C. Consideration should be given to the maximum rated ambient.
- Installation should be such that the amount of air flow required for safe operation is not compromised, and that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven loading.
- Check nameplate ratings to assure there is no overloading of supply circuits that could have an effect on over-current protection and supply wiring.
- Reliable grounding of this equipment should be maintained. Particular attention should be given to supply connections when connecting to power strips, rather than direct connections to the branch circuit.
- A quality surge / spike suppressor power strip is recommended to protect the DTS hardware.
What speaker specifications are needed for DTS Digital Sound®?
A DTS digital playback system can place considerable demands on the amplifiers and speakers in your theater. Some of the factors that can effect the power requirements are speaker efficiency, room size, and room acoustics. The following is a guideline of minimum power requirements:Theater Size | Screen Channels | Each Surround Channel | Subwoofer |
| Small | 200 WPC | 200 WPC | 400 W |
| Medium | 300 WPC | 300 WPC | 600 W |
| Large | 400-500 WPC | 400-500 WPC | +800 W |
What are the DTS system specifications?
See the product manual for details. All product manuals are posted in the DTS Online TechCenter.How do I install DTS equipment?
See the manual for the product you want to install. All product manuals are posted in the DTS Online TechCenter.Are there any special considerations for subwoofer as it relates to DTS?
Yes. The DTS subwoofer output level ranges from 20 Hz to 80 Hz. You must observe your subwoofer’s specifications to avoid damage to the speaker. If a subwoofer is driven below its cutoff frequency, its driver(s) may become unloaded. When unloaded, the voice coil can travel outside of the magnet’s gap, thus overheating or causing mechanical damage to the speaker. A high pass filter should be installed on those speakers with high cutoff frequencies. Contact your speaker manufacturer for more information.Why does there seem to be DTS subwoofer signal in the surrounds?
The DTS subwoofer signal is derived by filtering out the surround signals from 80 Hz and below. That signal is put on its own "subwoofer" output on DTS player. You may verify this while equalizing a room. Insert the DTS Setup disc into the player and play the subwoofer pink noise off the disc. Turn off the subwoofer speaker and look at the pattern on the RTA. You’ll see a dramatic roll-off at 80 Hz. It is normal to hear DTS subwoofer pink noise, above 80 Hz, in the surrounds.How to I set DTS playback levels?
It depends on the model of cinema processor you are connecting to but most processors require an audio input signal of 300mV RMS.DTS-6 / DTS-6D: Use the DS5 Setup disc and play track 2 (test tones).
DTS XD10 and DTS-CSS: Go into the menu to play the test tones. See manual for details.
DTS-6AD: See the manual and follow steps for A-chain and B-chain.
DTS XD10P: See the manual and follow steps for A-chain and B-chain.
How do I get a DTS Setup Disc?
Contact your DTS dealer to order one.How is the DTS reader calibrated?
Instructions are located in TN-E550A in the DTS Online TechCenter, in the Technical Updates section.How can I find out the latest software version for my unit?
The latest software version is given in the current issue of TechTalk. All issues are posted in the DTS Online TechCenter, in the Updates section.How do I calculate the offset (delay)?
Thread the film through the projector and count frames from the DTS reader’s lens to the projector picture gate. Multiply that by 1.25 and subtract one. The result is your offset. Enter that number into your playback unit’s offset setting. If you have a DTS-6 or DTS-6D, you will need to round the result off to the closest whole number in order to enter it in the player.How do I test the DTS automatic default functions?
DTS movie discs made after June 1996 are programmed so they automatically default the cinema processor to the optical format present on the film. This is true for all DTS players, except the DTS-6.The defaults on the DTS-6 are only A-type or SR-type which are selectable via jumpers on logic breakout boards (which are connected to the cinema processor).
DTS units will also pulse the cinema processor to NON-SYNC at the end of a feature film after playing in DTS Digital Sound.
Testing this function is done differently on each unit.
DTS-6 / DTS-6D: Use the DS5 Setup Disc and play track 20 (automation pulse test).
DTS XD10 and DTS-CSS: Go into the menu to play the automation test. See manual for details.
DTS-6AD: See the manual and follow steps in Section 9.
How does the DTS System affect other manufacturer’s sound equipment?
Dolby® CP50, CP100, CP200 OperationWhen DTS switches to digital, the normal signal paths are interrupted and DTS sound will be inserted just prior to the Dolby® EQ cards, in effect taking over the cinema processor (CP200: Program automation optical default format to either "04" A-TYPE or "05" SR –– which ever the film requires). When DTS switches out of digital, the cinema processor is released to function as normal and default to the format previously selected.
Dolby® CP45, CP55, CP65, CP500, CP650 UltraStereo, and Smart Operation
DTS will automatically pulse the audio processor to the digital format when it sees valid timecode and first plays the DTS Digital Sound track. Whenever DTS drops out of digital, a pulse will be sent to switch the cinema processor back to the optical format. At show end, however, DTS will switch the cinema processor to NON-SYNC.
Dolby® DA10 / 20
DTS can be connected to the Dolby® SR-D system without affecting its performance. The DA20 connects to the appropriate DTS breakout board. When DTS is not playing, the DA10/20 output is routed through the breakout board to the cinema processor. When DTS is playing, the DA10/20 is switched out and the DTS Digital Sound track is sent to the cinema processor.
Dolby® SA10
DTS cinema processors such as the DTS-6AD and XD10P can connect its analog surround signals to the SA10 input. The SA10 unit will then take the left surround and right surround signals and decode them for left surround, back surround, and left surround channel output.
Sony SDDS
The DTS system does not affect, nor connect to, the SDDSTM system. HOW ABOUT OPERATES INDEPENDENTLY FROM?
Which brackets do I use to install the DTS reader?
For the DTS Timecode Reader Head, 35mm- D614 – Standard Bracket
For projectors: Century, Simplex, and Cinemeccanica with Kelmar bracket (below). Intended to fit between the projector and reel arm. We have produced the bracket with the American standard size hole to accommodate 2" center spacing 3/8 – 16 tap, that is utilized to mount the American made upper reel arms. Comes with the following hardware:
QTY |
Description |
2 |
10 x 24 x 1/2" long screw |
2 |
3.4 x 16 x 1" long hex bolt nut |
2 |
3/8" lock washer |
- D615 – DP70 Universal Bracket
Used for American projectors with a penthouse. Comes with tap and drill bit 8-32, and the following hardware:
QTY |
Description |
2 |
10 x 24 x 1/2" long screws |
2 |
3.4 x 16 x 1" long hex bolt nuts |
2 |
3/8" lock washers |
- D616 – AA2 bracket
For Norelco AA projectors. Comes with the following hardware:
QTY |
Description |
2 |
#10 lock washers |
3 |
3.4 5/16" x 18 x 5" long screws |
3 |
3/8" split ring lock |
2 |
10 x 24 x 1/2" long screw |
- D617 – DP75 Bracket
Used to mount the DTS timecode reader head to the side of the projector. Comes with same hardware as the D614. - D622 – Front Mount Bracket
Used when installing multiple digital sound heads or when there is not room to lift the projector arm. Used with Dolby® SR-D™ and Sony SDDS™ reader heads. - 5006-0001-00 Cinemeccanica Bracket / adapter plate
For Cinemeccania projectors. Must be used with the D164 standard bracket for mounting the DTS timecode reader head. If the reel arm needs to be re-mounted, two plates are required.
How do I use the DTS Empirical Test Disc?
Note: The Empirical Test Disc cannot be used with the XD10 unit, and has limited use in the DTS-6AD.Insert the Empirical Disc into the player and remove all other discs. Tests #1 through #35 will play automatically. Before making a selection, write down the current OFFSET setting for future reference. For a specific test, wait for the announcement, then select the desired test number on the OFFSET rotary switches (located behind the player’s front panel access cover). Be sure to write down the current offset setting before your selection is made and restore the setting for proper DTS movie playback. NOTE: *These test signals may cause serious damage to sound systems that are not properly designed to reproduce the extended dynamic range of a digitally-based sound storage system.
- Empirical test section announcement
- *Power handling test
- Left level, set channel ID, pink noise @ 0 dB alternating with low level multi-tone
- Center level set
- Right level set
- Right surround level set
- Left surround level set
- Male voice for speaker comparison
- Female voice for speaker comparison
- Dialog, front speaker balance
- Music for speaker comparison
- Pink noise, surround speaker balance
- Music, front speaker balance
- Digital silence
- Left channel ID, -10 dB sweep, 0 dB sweep
- Left surround channel ID, -10 dB sweep, 0 dB sweep
- Center channel ID, -10 dB sweep, 0 dB sweep
- Right surround channel ID, -10 dB sweep, 0dB sweep
- Right channel ID, -10 dB sweep, 0 dB sweep
- Room acoustics test: left surround, right surround, center
- Left level sweep 400 Hz, -5 dB to +5 dB
- Left surround sweep 400 Hz, -5 dB to +5 dB
- Center level sweep 400 Hz, -5 dB to +5 dB
- Right surround sweep 400 Hz, -5 dB to +5 dB
- Right level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- Left level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- Left surround level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- Center level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- Right surround level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- Right level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- *Left explosion @ +10 dB, +20 dB
- *Right level sweep 400 Hz, -10 dB to +20 dB
- *Left surround explosion @ +10 dB, +20 dB
- *Center explosion @ +10 dB, +20 dB
- *Right explosion @ +10 dB, +20 dB
You must dial in remaining programs listed below and not usable with the DTS-6AD:
- 1 kHz @ reference level, all channels (250mV RMS)
- Left pink noise @ reference level (85 dB SPL)
- Left surround pink noise @ reference level (82 dB SPL)
- Center pink noise @ reference level (85 dB SPL)
- Right surround pink noise @ reference level (82 dB SPL)
- Right pink noise @ reference level (85 dB SPL)
- Sub bass pink noise @ reference level (88 dB SPL)
- Left 1/3 octave pink sweep 25 Hz – 2 kHz, 1 second pause, sweep 2 kHz – 20 kHz
- Left surround 1/3 octave pink sweep 125 Hz – 2 kHz, 1 second pause, sweep 2 kHz - 20 kHz
- Center 1/3 octave pink sweep 25 Hz – 2 kHz, 1 second pause, sweep 2 kHz – 20 kHz
- Right surround 1/3 octave pink sweep 125 Hz – 2 kHz, 1 second pause, sweep 2 kHz - 20 kHz
- Right 1/3 octave pink sweep 25 Hz – 2 kHz, 1 second pause, sweep 2 kHz – 20 kHz
- Sub Bass sweep 20 Hz 80 Hz
- 5 channel pop test, channel number ID by number of pops
- 4 seconds pink noise: left, center, right, left surround, right surround
NOTE: When finished doing the tests, be sure to return the OFFSET to the original setting before showing a feature.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
It’s always a good idea to stand in the theater and listen to the first few minutes of the movie. Listen to the sound level and general quality of the sound. The soundtrack should be in sync with the picture (wait for a dialogue scene), and played at a comfortable level. Even though every scene may not have surround material, do your best to listen for the surround speakers. Most opening musical sequences have surround information. Be sure the movie discs match the film you are playing. Feel free to contact DTS and ask for help.- I have a DTS print but I don’t have discs
Contact your film distributor and ask for the disc(s). - Volume too loud
Turn down the main fader control on cinema processor. - DTS player won't switch into digital sound
- Verify movie discs of the film you are showing are loaded into the DTS player or are downloaded into the XD10 unit’s contents.
- Verify the film is threaded through the DTS reader and that the film has a timecode strip (located between picture and analog sound track). If no timecode (dots & dashes) strip is seen, call the film’s distributor and request a DTS print.
- If the unit does not switch to digital, verify the green LED on the reader head (on projector) is glowing brightly and steadily while the movie is running. If it blinks a lot, see TN-E689A in the DTS Online TechCenter.
- If the LED is dark or blinking a lot, then check the reader for 4 Volts DC (see DTS Online TechCenter for the technical notice, TN-E550, on checking the reader).
- Switches in and out of DTS digital during the show
- The sound should automatically default to analog when the DTS player does not see timecode for four seconds.
- Verify the green LED on the DTS reader head is glowing brightly and steadily while the film is running. If it blinks, then see TN-E698 in the DTS Online TechCenter.
- If the light on the drive(s) is on solid when film is playing, it means they cannot read disc: Try swapping discs. If the problem follows the disc, then the disc is bad and needs replacement. If the problem follows the drive, then the drive is bad and needs replacement.
- If the drop-out occurs during the same place(s) in the movie, that indicates bad reels that need replacement. Call the film’s distributor and request replacement reels for those that are dropping out.
- Do not put any sound format cues on film with timecode. If you need to add sound cues then add them before timecode starts of after it ends. If needed, add a few feet of black leader to the beginning of the feature (BEFORE timecode starts) and for placement of the sound cue.
- Do not use leader with timecode elsewhere as it will cause a false start on the DTS player.
How does DTS 70mm work?
The DTS 70mm digital sound format generally functions the same as the DTS 35mm but with some important distinctions. Films released in the DTS 70mm format do not have the standard (analog 6-track sound) magnetic striping. The DTS timecode is written outside the sprocket holes where the 70mm track-two magnetic striping normally resides. This allows the usable picture area to be increased to fill the space used by the inner magnetic stripes. The size of the timecode on a DTS 70mm print is huge. At 30 mils wide, it is easily visible to the naked eye. Damage by normal scratches does not affect the reader’s ability to scan timecode.Since the frame size of each picture cell is larger than 35mm, the playback offset must be adjusted for proper play back sound synchronization.
Since the magnetic sound stripe is not on the film, DTS 70mm prints cannot use analog sound for backup. Instead, installing a second DTS player is recommended to ensure 100% fail-safe operation. If a malfunction occurs, the main DTS player uses its built-in default circuitry to automatically switch to the second unit. A DTS fail-safe board links the two players together.
For theaters already equipped with DTS 35mm system and setup for 70mm projection, the purchase of a DTS 70mm reader and bracket is required. The 70mm reader can be mounted onto the projector next to the DTS 35mm reader. If space is not available, an optional breakaway bracket and spacer can be used so either size reader can mount (one at a time) to the same bracket. Thumbscrews on the panels allow for easy change between DTS 35 / 70 mm readers.
Can I install a DTS 35mm and DTS 70mm reader at the same location on the projector?
Yes, you will need special DTS break-away plates to implement the procedure below.- Start by mounting the 70mm reader (with its breakaway plate attached) to the bracket. Use 70mm film to align reader. Once aligned, tighten bracket screws. Loosen the thumbscrew on the breakaway plate so that the 70mm reader detaches from the bracket.
- Now attach the 35mm reader (with its breakaway plate attached) to the bracket. Use 35mm film to be sure the alignment path is correct –– no corrections should be necessary. The principle is to have one alignment for both readers so that no projector adjustments are needed when the readers are exchanged. Be aware, though, the (sound synchronization) offset setting on the DTS player will be different for 35mm as opposed to 70mm film.
Is there fail-safe operation for DTS 70mm?
Yes, we have 70mm failsafe kits for the DTS-6/-6D and XD10 units. Please contact DTS Customer Service for more information.How do I prepare a (pre-show) video for DTS cinema playback?
Contact DTS Customer Service for information.What DTS equipment is capable of networking?
The DTS XD10 Cinema Media Player is capable of networking. Please contact DTS Cinema Sales for more information.What kind of external hardware is required for network capabilities in the XD10?
It requires a DTS Cinema Server and DTS software package.What are XD10 option keys?
These are used to "unlock" installed options inside the XD10. An option key is included with all XD10 units that have an option installed. The option key is unique to the unit it was made for and cannot be used to unlocked options in another unit.Contact DTS Customer Service if you’ve lost the option key and need it to restore an option.
How do I enable captions in the XD10 or DTS-CSS?
Using the unit’s manual, go into the menu and select the type of captions you need. There are two types, front projected captions and rear display captions. Program COM1 for the configuration desired. See product manual for specific programming instructions.How do I load content into the XD10 or DTS-CSS? How do I get it to play?
Content is downloaded from disc to the XD10 or DTS-CSS hard drive. Simply load the disc into the unit and the contents will automatically download. Once the content is downloaded, remove the disc from the player. Neither the XD10 or DTS-CSS will play content off a disc. Content will be played from the hard drive when the DTS unit sees valid timecode that matches the material in the hard drive’s contents.How do I copy settings from one DTS unit to another?
It depends on the unit. Some units cannot have their settings copied. See the relevant product manual for details.How can I encode a film into DTS?
Special encoding equipment is required to encode a film into DTS for playback in a cinema. Payment of a license fee is required. Contact DTS Post Production for details, PostAgoura@dts.com.I can’t read the front display panel on the DTS unit. Do I have to replace it?
Most of the time, a simple adjustment is needed if a display is hard to read. As long as the text has simply dimmed, adjusting the unit’s contrast adjustment pot will fix the problem. The contrast adjustment pot is normally located inside a hole near the display. On the DTS-6AD, it’s located on the side of the front door near the main fader. See the product manual for the exact location.DTS is a registered trademark of DTS, Inc. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.