Lab.gruppen upgrades CAFÉ software

Lab.gruppen has released version 1.2.0 of its CAFÉ (Configuring Amplifiers For the Environment) software, which adds new features for system design and commissioning of the company’s PLM+ and D Series amplifier platforms for both Windows and Mac.

Ease of use has been enhanced with added help sections at the top of each view together with tool tips for all fields. Also, the user interface now supports use of imperial units on cable lengths and in other parameters.

CAFÉ’s ESP (Equipment Specification Prediction) feature, which helps system designers move from specified loudspeakers to an optimal selection of amplifiers throughout the system, has been improved with this second generation release. The Automap algorithm in ESP has been updated for more logical levelling out of headroom throughout the system, and the channel sorting has been improved to present a more logical order among the channels. The Automap algorithm analyses the loudspeaker requirements and automatically finds the most cost effective set of amplifier models and places channels optimally.

As an additional benefit, ESP calculates cooling and mains distribution requirements per amplifier and for complete equipment rooms based on exact loudspeaker requirements. ESP works in conjunction with Lab.gruppen’s RPM (Rational Power Management) feature to allocate the optimum power as needed for the different channels in order to minimise wasted headroom. 

In the CAFÉ’s RPM view, a new input option has been added for intuitive entry of high-impedance/constant voltage loudspeakers in the section for entry of loudspeaker requirements. Also, a synchronisation feature has been implemented to transfer amplifier naming as implemented in in ESP to Lake frame labels in online frames. 

CAFÉ 1.2.0 also incorporates performance and stability improvements along with bug fixes. It is available for free download.

Also available is CAFÉ Coach, a series of video tutorials offering a guide to the features of the program. The tutorials cover both offline configuration and online operation and monitoring capabilities. CAFÉ Coach is accessible both via the Lab.gruppen website and the Lab.gruppen channel on YouTube

http://www.labgruppen.com