FAQ: APx KeyBox
- Q: What is an APx KeyBox?
- A: The APx KeyBox is a small, blue security module that attaches to the rear of any Legacy APx audio analyzer (non-B Series) and is required to run release version 4.6 (or later) of APx500 audio measurement software. It replaces the existing software option module holder (silver) that may be installed on the APx analyzer. For further information, please see this short video.
- Q: How do I know if I need a KeyBox for my APx audio analyzer?
- A: You will need an APx KeyBox if you plan to run APx software v4.6 or later on a Legacy APx audio analyzer. You will need a KeyBox for each APx analyzer you plan to operate with v4.6. If you do not plan to upgrade to v4.6, you do not need a KeyBox.
- Q: I don’t know if I’ll move to v4.6 – what new features does it have?
- A: Release version 4.6 of APx500 audio measurement software includes the following new capabilities:
- Open-loop log-swept sine chirp measurements
- Multichannel input equalization
- DTS:X support
- AAC MPEG2 CODEC support (requires Bluetooth® Duo module)
- Automated import of measurement equalizations
- Q: How do I get or request an APx KeyBox?
- A: You can request a KeyBox for your APx audio analyzer at https://www.ap.com/get-keybox/. When requesting an APx KeyBox, you will need to provide the serial number for your APx analyzer.
- Q: What does the KeyBox cost?
- A: There is no charge for the first APx KeyBox issued for a specific analyzer serial number. The first KeyBox requested for an analyzer will be provided, and shipped, free-of-charge from AP. Replacement KeyBoxes are available for a $115 fee (excluding shipping charges, which are the responsibility of the analyzer owner).
- Q: Can I install the APx KeyBox myself?
- A: Yes, the KeyBox installs easily on the rear of any APx audio analyzer.
- Q: Does the KeyBox work with any APx Series audio analyzer?
- A: Yes, the APx KeyBox is compatible with all Legacy APx audio analyzers, including the APx511, APx515, APx52x Series, APx555 and APx58x Series. It is not required for (nor is it compatible with) B Series APx analyzers. It is not applicable to earlier generations of Audio Precision analyzers (example: System One, System Two, 2700 Series, ATS-1, etc.).
- Q: What about the iButtons I already have for my software options?
- A: Any iButtons you currently have (for example, POLQA2, SPK-RD, etc.) are compatible with the APx KeyBox. Just remove them from your existing software option module (silver box) and install them into the blue APx KeyBox. For further information, please see this short video.
- Q: I’ll plan to order a new APx audio analyzer soon – do I still need a KeyBox?
- A: All new analyzers are APx B Series analyzers and do not require a KeyBox.
- Q: Does the APx KeyBox work with previous versions of APx software?
- A: If you do not plan to upgrade to version 4.6, you do not need to request a KeyBox. If you plan to use v4.6 but may also continue to use previous versions, you will need to uninstall the KeyBox prior to launching any APx software version 4.5.x or earlier. If you are using software option iButtons, these will need to be swapped as well.
- Q: Can I use a KeyBox with any of my APx analyzers?
- A: Each APx KeyBox is programmed to work with a specific Legacy APx audio analyzer (based on unit serial number). If you plan to upgrade multiple Legacy APx analyzers to version 4.6, you will need to request a KeyBox for each instrument and will need to provide each analyzer's serial number. An analyzer’s serial number can be found on the Calibration Label on the forward edge of the top cover. It can also be found on the Configuration Label (APx555, 52x, 58x) or Serial Number Label (APx511, 515) on the rear of the instrument.