APx Series DownloadsHOME/DOWNLOADS/APx525 Family
All related files for APx520, APx521, APx525, APx526, APx585 and APx586
Note: All APx instruments use the same APx500 software, however, some features or downloads are not supported on every model. For example the APx Blu-ray Disc Sample Project requires an APx585 with HDMI. Therefore, not every download displayed here will work with every model of APx. Requirements are indicated on each download.
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Software
APx500 Measurement Software v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx500 measurement software for all APx Series instruments.
This download is suitable for most users. If Microsoft .NET version 3.5 is not already on your PC, it will be downloaded during the installation.
For PCs that do not have .NET version 3.5 installed, and are not connected to the Internet, download the full installer instead (APx500 Measurement Software (with .NET)).
APx500 What's New v2.5 (View previous versions)
Describes new features in the latest release of the APx500 measurement software.
APx500 Measurement Software (with .NET) v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx500 Measurement Software for all APx Series instruments.
This download includes the Microsoft .NET Framework version 3.5, and is suitable for installation on PCs that are not connected to the Internet and do not already have version 3.5 installed.
For installation on Internet connected PCs, download "APx500 Measurement Software" instead.
Resources & Utilities
APx API Developer Tools v2.5 (View previous versions)
Resources for API developers. Includes VB.NET & C# templates and example code, Intro to API Programming, and API documentation (API Browser). Also LabVIEW driver & documentation. Keywords: software, development, coding, samples, programming, developer
APx Dolby Compliance Test Project: DVD 5.1 Channel Player v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of 5.1 channel DVD players for Dolby compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 or 586 analyzer. The tests and steps are exactly the same as those specified by Dolby, and utilize Dolby’s test DVDs during the process. This APx project greatly simplifies and speeds up Dolby certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. The 8 or 16 input channel APx585 and 586 analyzers are ideally suited for this multi-channel application.
APx DTS Compliance Test Project: DVD Player v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of 5.1/6.1 channel DVD players for dts compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 or 586 analyzer. The tests and steps are exactly the same as those specified by dts, and utilize dts’s test DVD during the process. This APx project greatly simplifies and speeds up dts certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. The 8 or 16 input channel APx585 and 586 analyzers are ideally suited for this multi-channel application.
APx DTS Compliance Test Project: Blu-ray Disc Player v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of Blu-ray players for dts-HD compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 or 586 analyzer. Requires BD Test Disc for Full DTS-HD from dts. This APx project greatly simplifies and speeds up dts certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. The 8 or 16 input channel APx585 and 586 analyzers are ideally suited for this multi-channel application.
APx Dolby Compliance Test Project: Digital Multichannel Decoder v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of AV Receivers and other multichannel decoders for Dolby compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 with HDMI analyzer. The tests are exactly the same as those specified by Dolby, and the tones generated by the APx analyzer are equal to those on the Dolby Digital Test DVD v 1.5. No DVD is required. Using tones generated by the analyzer greatly speeds up testing, as it is not necessary to constantly search for DVD tracks. The project also greatly simplifies certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. The 8 channel APx585 with HDMI is ideally suited for this multi-channel application.
APx DTS Compliance Test Project: AV Receiver v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of 5.1/6.1 channel AV Receivers for DTS compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 or 586 analyzer. The tests are exactly the same as those specified by DTS. This APx project greatly simplifies and speeds up DTS certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. The 8 or 16 input channel APx585 and 586 analyzers are ideally suited for this multi-channel application. No DVD is required.
APx Performance Check v2.5 (View previous versions)
Performance check (automated self-test) for all APx instruments.
APx LabVIEW Driver v2.5 (View previous versions)
Audio Precision has developed a full-featured LabVIEW Driver for its family of APx500 Audio Analyzers. The APx LabVIEW Driver is a collection of Virtual Instruments (VIs) aimed at providing LabVIEW users the ability to access most of the functionality available in the APx500 Application Programming Interface (API) using high level, LabVIEW-typical subVIs, with a minimum number of programming steps. Using the Driver collection, LabVIEW users will be able to quickly and efficiently develop APx applications with clean, concise LabVIEW code. Please note that the LabVIEW Driver is version specific for each release of APx500.
APx HDMI EDID Configuration Files v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx with HDMI supports multiple EDID configurations. These .edid files are pre-configured for various audio formats including encoded audio such as DTS. Requires APx585 with HDMI hardware. Please consult APx User Manual for more information.
APx Waveform Generator Utility v2.5 (View previous versions)
The Waveform Generator Utility (WfmGeneration.exe) allows you to generate the 34 APx External Source signals at any of a wide range of sample rates and at two bit depths. It also allows you to generate 8 other waveforms. For more information on the 34 APx External Source signals, see the file "Audio Precision Test Signals on CD.pdf" in the Audio Test Signals folder. This utility program was created to alleviate the need of copying and transferring gigabytes of linear PCM audio files for external source testing. You are free to copy this utility to other computers or media, where you can generate the audio files you may need for external source testing.
APx DTS Compliance Test Project: HD Receiver v2.5 (View previous versions)
This APx project enables rapid testing of 8 channel HD receivers for dts Digital Surround compliance, using the Audio Precision APx585 with HDMI audio analyzer. The tests and steps are exactly the same as those specified by dts. This APx project greatly simplifies and speeds up dts certification testing by setting up the tests, guiding the user with prompts when necessary, and automating where user intervention is not needed. No disc is required. The 8 channel APx585 with HDMI analyzer is ideally suited for this multi-channel application.
APx Digital Serial I/O (DSIO) Configuration Files v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx Digital Serial I/O configuration files for A/D, D/A, and sample rate converters. Simplifies configuring the analyzer. Requires: 1) APx500 measurement software and 2) an APx instrument with the DSIO option installed.
APx FM MPX-RDS Waveform Creation Utility v2.5 (View previous versions)
This utility can create a file containing a multiplexed and RDS encoded waveform of stereo sine waves, and upload it to the APx500 measurement software. Accompanies Technote TN-105, "FM Radio Receiver Testing with APx Audio Analyzers." The MPX-RDS FM utility is written with LabView. This download is for users both with and without LabView installed. For those users who do not have LabView, a run-time version will be installed with the utility.
APx Damping Factor Measurement Utility v2.5 (View previous versions)
The APx Damping Factor Measurement Utility plots audio amplifier damping factor vs. frequency. It is developed in LabVIEW 2009, but does not require that you have LabVIEW to run. See the accompanying knowledge base article for an explanation and instructions.
Includes the Windows installer, source code, and instructions.
The version number of this utility must match the version of the APx software that you are running.
APx DTS Generator Waveforms: DTS Digital Surround v2.5
The APx DTS Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature and are encoded in the various DTS surround sound formats. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
APx Dolby Generator Waveforms: Dolby Digital v2.5 (View previous versions)
The APx Dolby Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
APx FM MPX-RDS Waveforms 50µs (except North America) v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx FM MPX-RDS Waveforms 50µs (except North America) contains a series of FM multiplex and RDS encoded waveforms for FM radio receiver testing with the APx Series analyzers. The test streams are versions of the stereo .wav files that can be created with the Audio Precision Waveform Generator Utility (WfmGeneration.exe), also available for download.
Copy the folder to your PC and load the desired file using the generator waveform browser inside the APx500 application. Download Technote 105: FM Radio Receiver Testing with APx Audio Analyzers for a discussion on FM testing.
APx FM MPX-RDS Waveforms 75µs (North America) v2.5 (View previous versions)
APx FM MPX-RDS Waveforms 75µs (North America) contains a series of FM multiplex and RDS encoded waveforms for FM radio receiver testing with the APx Series analyzers. The test streams are versions of the stereo .wav files that can be created with the Audio Precision Waveform Generator Utility (WfmGeneration.exe), also available for download.
Copy the folder to your PC and load the desired file using the generator waveform browser inside the APx500 application. Download Technote 105: FM Radio Receiver Testing with APx Audio Analyzers for a discussion on FM testing.
APx Test Signals on Disc Track List v2 (View previous versions)
The full track listings for all APx test signal discs – APx-BD1, APx-DVD1, and APx-CD1. These discs may be ordered from Audio Precision.
Alternately, the linear test signals may be created using the APx Waveform Generator Utility (available as a download), and the Dolby and dts encoded versions may be downloaded as "APx Dolby Generator Waveforms" and "APx dts Generator Waveforms" respectively.
APx Dolby Generator Waveforms: Dolby TrueHD v2.5
The APx Dolby Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
APx Impedance Measurement Utility v2.5 (View previous versions)
This utility for APx analyzers allows you to make an impedance vs frequency sweep across a loudspeaker, and then see the graph and data results directly in ohms. Clicking Help in the utility will display the complete instructions, including a discussion of the theory behind it. This download includes the compiled utility application (LabVIEW not required to run), as well as the LabVIEW 2009 source code.
APx API Wrapper (for VEE, MATLAB) v2.4
This APx API wrapper dll enables you to access the entire APx API when using Agilent VEE and The Mathworks MATLAB. A discussion and instructions are in the kb article "Using APx with VEE." This download is only necessary for APx 2.4. APx 2.5 and later already include it.
APx Dolby Generator Waveforms: Dolby Digital Plus v2.5
The APx Dolby Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
APx DTS Generator Waveforms: DTS HD High Resolution v2.5
The APx DTS Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature and are encoded in the various DTS surround sound formats. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
APx DTS Generator Waveforms: DTS HD Master Audio v2.5
The APx DTS Generator Waveforms support the APx500 generator waveform feature and are encoded in the various DTS surround sound formats. Copy the folders to your PC and browse to the desired file from the Generator Waveform browser inside the APx500 application.
Notes: These files are similar to the files of the same name and format available on the APx-BD1 Blu-ray disc. Some files have been shortened to accommodate the memory limitation for the generator waveform feature. A few files that could not be shortened have been omitted.
User Manuals
APx500 User Manual v2.5 (View previous versions)
User manual for APx500 measurement software. Includes detail on signal path setup, hardware connectivity and software features for all APx models: APx520, 521, 525, 526, 585 and 586
TechNotes/AppNotes
Technote 104: Introduction to the Six Basic Audio Measurements
Technote 104 discusses methods of making a set of basic measurements using an Audio Precision 2700 Series or ATS-2 audio analyzer.These are Level Frequency Response THD+N Phase Crosstalk Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Technote 20: Return Loss Measurements
This Technote gives an overview of the concept of return loss in telephony. Return loss is an expression of the impedance mismatch in a transmission circuit which can give rise to reflection of signal energy. Sample hybrid circuits and their use in return loss measurements using Audio Precision instruments are described.
AP Applied: Dolby and dts Confidence Testing v1
Every device that bears a Dolby or dts logo is required to go through a compliance test process to insure that it meets the respective technical requirements. This AP Applied describes compliance testing using the APx585 with HDMI, utilizing features such as self-generated encoded test signals (closed loop testing), report generation, automation, and more. Testing examples are shown for an HD receiver and a disc player.
AP Applied: APx Automation with LabVIEW v1
Describes using LabVIEW with APx in a lab or automated production environment. Examples using the APx LabVIEW virtual instrument driver are shown.
AP Applied: Serial Digital Measurements with APx v1
Serial digital signal analysis is essential in research and development for evaluating audio circuit designs at the chip and at the board level. This AP Applied reviews serial testing procedures, and describes the abilities of the DSIO for APx, as well as the PSIA-2722 for the 2700 Series.
AP Applied: Digital Protocol Analysis v1
Explains the various ways to view, measure, and manipulate digital metadata, primarily over the HDMI interface.
Technote 105: FM Radio Receiver Testing with APx Audio Analyzers v0
In this technote, we discuss how to test the analog sound quality of FM radio receivers using an Audio Precision APx500 Series audio analyzer. We also discuss how to test the Radio Data System (RDS), which allows text, such as song title and artist, to be transmitted digitally as part of the analog radio signal.
AP Applied: Acoustic Response v0
A look at some of the important features needed in an acoustic audio analyzer, the problems you may encounter in non-ideal testing environment, the needs of good production line testing, and the range of measurements and results that should be produced.
AP Applied: Ultra-High Bandwidth Analysis v0
A look at the traditional ways of examining out of band noise signals, as well as the advantages of using an ultra-high bandwidth audio analyzer with full 24 bit FFT resolution from DC to beyond 1 MHz.
Technote 106: Measuring PSRR (Power Supply Rejection Ratio) v0
In this technote we describe and compare two different methods to measure PSRR. Then we give instructions for using the APx PSRR Measurement Utility, which simplifies the calculations and graphing on APx analyzers.
This technote is included in the APx PSRR Measurement Utility download.
Legacy Material
No files in this category
Books
The Audio Measurement Handbook v1
This reference handbook is a practical, hands-on guide for workers in all phases of the audio field. It covers basic tools and techniques, common environments for audio testing, application of these techniques to common audio devices, the typical ranges of performance to expect in different devices, and a glossary of terms and key specifications used in audio measurement. 178 pages Written by Bob Metzler.
Whitepapers
Measuring Switch-mode Power Amplifiers vN/A
Switch-mode audio power amplifiers are becoming increasingly popular due to their smaller size, lower weight, and improved efficiency. Their advantages are obvious in low power battery operated personal audio players and laptop computers. However they are also progressively displacing more traditional linear designs in mainstream applications such as home entertainment systems, automotive sound systems, and professional installations where high quality audio is important. Measuring the performance of switch-mode amplifiers presents some new and unique challenges. They inherently generate ultra-sonic artifacts and spurious signals with slew rates that can provoke non-linear behavior within the input stages of high quality audio test and measurement equipment. Absolutely worthless and inaccurate results can result unless effective measures are taken to prevent this non-linear behavior. Written by Bruce Hofer.
Limitations in making audio bandwidth measurements in the presence of out of band noise vN/A
Audio analyzers are optimized to make high quality measurements up through their maximum specified bandwidths. The presence of significant energy above these bandwidths can have a profound effect on the audio measurements and possibly induce errors. This white paper provides valuable information on avoiding the possibility of errors when testing digital to analog converters and other audio devices that contain significant energy above the audio band. Written by Bruce Hofer
Testing Challenges in Personal Computer Audio Devices vN/A
The Personal Computer audio environment has evolved over the years to become a significant entity within the field of acquisition and rendering of audio information. The personal computer is a highly sophisticated interactive environment that is much more complex than a conventional dedicated home audio device, leading to new problem areas. These include, but are not limited to, stochastic interrupts, network accesses, disc I/O and disparate hardware qualities. While the environment of a highly matrixed multi-tasking concurrent operating system offers many opportunities to overcome quality issues, the PC, due to the media-rich tools and feature sets, is becoming the entertainment capture and rendering device of choice for future generations. Presented at the 114th Convention, 2003 March 22–25 Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Wayne Jones, Michael Wolfe, Theodore C. Tanner Jr., Daniel Dinu
Measuring Digital Audio vN/A
Transmitting and storing audio signals in the digital domain is well-established in the broadcast industry. Analog audio has given way to the AES3 and Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format (SPDIF). AES3 data streams are also embedded in SDI television signals. Handling audio in the digital do- main offers many advantages over analog methods. An analog signal incurs progressive degradation as it passes through a chain of circuits. Converting the analog signal into digital and converting back to analog as late in the chain as possible overcomes this degradation.
Datasheets
APx520/521/525/526 Datasheet v0
APx520, APx521, APx525, and APx526 Datasheet
APx585/586 Specifications v2.5 (View previous versions)
Complete specification for APx585 and APx586.
APx585/586 Datasheet v3 (View previous versions)
Datasheet for the APx585 and APx586 multichannel audio analyzers.
APx Digital Serial I/O v2 (View previous versions)
Audio Precision’s new Digital Serial I/O for APx audio analyzers provides multichannel, chip-level connectivity for designers of HDMI receiver/ transmitter chips, converters and other micro-components. Innovations include 8 channels of simultaneous audio data, independent clocks, buffered oscilloscope monitors, and built-in support for left or right justified, I2S and DSP formats.
APx520-526 Specifications v2.5 (View previous versions)
Complete specification for APx520, APx521, APx525, and APx526.
Sample Files
APx Power Amplifier (Linear) Sample Project v1
APx power amplifier (linear) sample project and instructions. Requires any APx instrument.
Waveforms for Playback v1
Additional waveforms for APx file playback. Includes RIAA, 50us, and 75us equalized stepped frequency response sweeps, and DC offset.
APx FM MPX-RDS Demo Project v1
A simple APx project file to demonstrate testing of FM transmitters and receivers, including automotive head units. Includes a set of MPX-RDS-encoded sweeps and tones.
APx Run External Program Project v1
This APx project and related files demonstrates how to run an external program from APx500. Includes THD+N measurement and Stepped Frequency Sweep measurements. The project file calls the Goldwave audio editor program, so you will either need to install Goldwave, or substitute another audio player with a command line interface. Accompanies the kb article "Running an external program from APx500," which gives a complete explanation.
APx Reports Tutorial A Files v2.5
The files created while doing "Tutorial A: Making a Custom layout from the Default layout" in the APx500 program Help. Use these files if you wish to skip Tutorial A and proceed with Tutorials B and C.
Service & Support
APx MPX-RDS Slide Presentation v1
Testing FM radios with APx500 Series Audio Analyzers. Presented by Joe Begin, Manager of Technical Support, Audio Precision.
Translated Material
APx585 with HDMI Datasheet (Chinese) v0
APx585 with HDMI Datasheet (Chinese)
APx500 v2.1 - Japanese - Manual
APx500 v2.1 - Japanese - Manual
Measuring Switch-mode Power Amplifiers (Japanese) v0
Measuring Switch-mode Power Amplifiers - Japanese
AUX-0025 Datasheet (Chinese) v0
APx520/525 Datasheet (Chinese) v0
AP Applied: Acoustic Response (Japanese) v1
A look at some of the important features needed in an acoustic audio analyzer, the problems you may encounter in non-ideal testing environment, the needs of good production line testing, and the range of measurements and results that should be produced. Translated into Japanese by TOYO, AP's Japanese distributor.
Press release: APx Loudspeaker (Chinese) v1
AP Applied: Acoustic Response (Korean) v1
A look at some of the important features needed in an acoustic audio analyzer. Translated into Korean by AP Partner B&P International
APx Digital Serial I/O (Korean) v1
Audio Precision’s new Digital Serial I/O for APx audio analyzers provides multichannel, chip-level connectivity for designers of HDMI receiver/ transmitter chips, converters and other micro-components. Innovations include 8 channels of simultaneous audio data, independent clocks, buffered oscilloscope monitors, and built-in support for left or right justified, I2S and DSP formats. Translated into Korean by AP Partner B&P International
APx500 Getting Started Guide (Korean) v1
APx Series Getting Started Guide. Translated into Korean by AP Partner B&P International
AP Applied: Serial Digital Measurements with APx (Japanese) v0
AP Applied: Dolby and dts Confidence Testing (Japanese) v0
AP Applied: Ultra-High Bandwidth Analysis (Japanese)
APx520/525 Datasheet (Polish) v0
APx585 with HDMI Datasheet (Polish) v0
APx Digital Serial I/O Datasheet (Polish) v0
