A hardware based VCA Group System is optional available for all Input Modules of the 5MT Series D Mixing Consoles. Though VCA Groups are included with the CAS Console Automation System, the hardware VCA Group option makes possible to implement this useful features either with non automated mixing consoles.

for Series D Input Modules

The optional hardware VCA Group System is available for all input modules of the 5MT Series D mixing console. The VCA Group system uses 8 busses in the console frame. Hardware VCA Groups operate imdependent of a console automation system.

If a CAS system is not installed, the VCA Group options makes this useful system possible. In combination with a CAS computer automation system, the hardware VCA Groups offer a second VCA Group level. Static and dynamic software VCA Groups are still available. In addition, it is possible to assign software group masters to hardware VCA Group master fader as well. This makes it possible to arrange the entire VCA Group System in a very complex and efficient way.
  read more about the CAS Console Automation here
  read more about the CAS VCA Groups here
While the software VCA Groups do not require dedicated VCA Group Master Fader necessarily, the hardware VCA Group system must have a master fader section.

VCA Group Master Faders

The master section of the hardware VCA Group Option uses the same device that is used for the static VCA Groups of the CAS Console Automation System. The 8GR VCA Group Master combines 8 group faders with cut switches. The 8GR module has an automation interface that makes possible to automate the hardware VCA Group master faders as well as the static group masters of the CAS computer. 8GR fits into the fader bay of a Series D mixing console next to the talkback switch panel and the master fader. With a 12 slot master section, up to 3 8GR units can be installed. This makes possible to use 8 hardware group master and up to 16 static software group master in a console.

8GR VCA Group Master, Master Fader and Talkback Switch Panel
 open high resolution View here
 open high resolution Graphic of 8GR Panel here