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Mackie Digital X Bus
Getting Inside the Digital X Bus
Disclaimer:
Use of this guide is entirely at the sole risk of the user. LOUD Technologies Inc. is not liable
or responsible in any way for problems or failures that arise within the Digital X Bus as a direct
result of the user disassembling the Digital X Bus. Even though the Digital X Bus has been de-
signed to be compatible with “off the shelf” computer parts and components, the user assumes
all risks associated with the action of changing or replacing such components or parts. Only an
Authorized Mackie Service Center can perform such action and still be covered under the terms
of the product warranty. Mackie Technical Support is available for assistance with this proce-
dure at +1 800.898.3211 (toll free in the USA and Canada) or at +1 425.487.4333 from anywhere
in the world.
IMPORTANT:
The Digital X Bus contains static-sensitive components. Anti-static precautions
must
be taken before touching anything inside the Digital X Bus.
Use an anti-static wrist
strap when performing the procedures described here.
These are available at most com-
puter supply stores. The use of an anti-static mat is also recommended.
Introduction
The DXB is one of the world’s first digital mixing consoles that can be opened, accessed, ser-
viced, and/or have its hardware components upgraded by the end user. It is designed to utilize
standard “off the shelf” personal computer components and parts that can be purchased over
the counter at a wide variety of locations around the world. The Digital X Bus is also designed
to support third party accessory products, the most notable of which being the Universal Au-
dio™ UAD-1™ Powered Plugins™ Card that can provide additional DSP resources to the Digi-
tal X Bus processing power.
While this poses an enormous benefit in keeping the Digital X Bus current with rapidly ad-
vancing computer technology, it also poses a major risk to the customer if specific procedures
are not followed beforehand and during that process. As a Digital X Bus user, you must under-
stand and agree to assume all risks associated with this before you begin.
The purpose of the guide is to provide a detailed explanation and step-by-step instructions of
how to get inside the Digital X Bus so the internal parts can be accessed. This Guide does not
make any specific reference to any one part or component in particular…it is only an instruc-
tion of how to get inside the mixer, and close it back up after you have completed whatever it is
you are trying to do internally.
Getting Inside
The Digital X Bus
