INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
MODEL PA4100X
FOUR CHANNEL HI-POWER AMPLIFIER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SectionTitle
Page
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - READ BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT.........................................................................................................2
GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................................................................3
PA4100X PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS ........................................................................................................................................5
INSTALLATION - PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING ............................................................................................................................8
CONNECTING THE PA4100X.........................................................................................................................................................................9
Stereo Mode Connections...................................................................................................................................... 9
Speaker Phasing.................................................................................................................................................. 10
Connecting the REMOTE MASTER ON/OFF MUTE CONTROL........................................................................... 10
A Multi-Zone System Diagram Using The PA4100X and MRC88.......................................................................... 12
TROUBLE SHOOTING .................................................................................................................................................................................13
SPECIFICATIONS........................................................................................................................................................................................14
Model PA4100X
Page 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
To enhance the ease of installation and obtain optimum performance from the PA4100X, we recommend that you first
become familiar with all its features and special capabilities by studying the descriptions and instructions in this
manual.
The PA4100X was designed to meet the audio power amplifier needs of custom installed multi-zoned systems with
high sonic quality and hi power output. It is a 4 Channel amplifier that is primarily intended to interface with the
MRC88 Whole-house Audio Video Entertainment System for Zones 7 and 8 Preamp outputs or for Sub-Zone
amplification of zones 1-6. It may also be used as a standalone 2-zone amplifier. Specific features and technology are
as follows:
Figure 1: The Model PA4100X Amplifier
Cost/Size Efficiency. The PA4100X features four 100-watt power amplifiers. This permits each PA4100X to drive 2-
zones in a multi-zone system -- each with a 100-watt stereo amplifier per zone.
Remote ON/OFF Control Jacks (C1 & C2). These 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jacks allow the PA4100X to be powered on
and off and muted by a positive DC voltage ranging between 5 and 30 volts (11mA @ 12 V). Specifically, when
interfaced with the Control Out jacks of zones 7 & 8 on the MRC88 (labeled CO1 and CO2), it permits the MRC88 to
power the PA4100X ON and OFF automatically with zone ON/OFF commands or any 12VDC control signal.
Input Level Flexibility. The input level (sensitivity range) is individually adjustable (per stereo pair) from a low of 0.2
volts up to 3 volts. This gives the installer the ability to adjust the overall gain of the system or zone. For instance,
there may be a need to adjust the amplifier to deliver a controlled, maximum sound level into a zone when the volume
control on the preamp is set to maximum. This would act as a volume limiter for any particular zone (i.e. to prevent
the kids from over-driving wall speakers, etc.).
Low Impedance Capability. Each amplifier is 4-Ohm safe under music conditions. This means, for instance, that
you can drive two pairs of 8-Ohm speakers in stereo mode in each zone with ease.
Peak/Clip LED Indication: Whenever either amplifier channel output starts to enter a clipping state, the channels
front panel LED will illuminate RED. After the amp stops clipping the LED will return to its normal state 5-6 seconds
after clipping stops.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Page 4
Model PA4100X
Auto Protection Circuit. This feature protects the PA4100X if a short or very low impedance is detected at the
speaker terminals with each amplifier pair protected separately. Normal operation is restored automatically within 3 to
4 seconds after the short is removed.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 5
PA4100X PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS
1. Front Panel. 17" X 5.25” panel designed for shelf mounting. The unit measures 6” high with the Feet (Item
#5). When rack mounting use an adequate rack shelf mount making sure to allow for proper ventilation.
3
4
2
1
5
FIGURE 2 – THE MODEL PA4100X FRONT PANEL – FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS
2. POWER ON/OFF/STANDBY SWITCH:
ƒꢀ POWER ON/OFF MODE: When the CI switch on the rear of the unit is set to OFF the front Power Switch
will act as a standard ON/OFF (IN/OUT) control.
ƒꢀ STANDBY MODE: With the POWER SWITCH left in the IN position (and the CI switch set to ON) the 2
channels of PA4100X may be controlled remotely from the MRC88 via the CI1 and CI2 Control Inputs (or
any Voltage Control Signal). When both channels enter STANDBY Mode the front LEDS will turn off
leaving the amplifier in a low current sleep mode.
3. Status LED Indicators. These indicators, one for each channel pair, provide the following status information:
ƒꢀ GREEN LED: Indicates Amplifier is ON
ƒꢀ RED LED: Indicates associated channel output is in a CLIPPING state. LED will go back to GREEN 5-6
seconds after clipping subsides.
ƒꢀ ALL LED’s OFF: Indicates both amplifier channels are OFF or in STANBY MODE (see Item #4 for
STANDBY MODE)
4. Illuminated LOGO: This is a backlit logo. When lit it indicates that the amplifier is powered ON. If the
individual STATUS LED’s (Item #3) are OFF but the LOGO is ON, this indicates that both amplifier channels
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
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Model PA4100X
are currently in STANDBY MODE. Whenever the LOGO is not illuminated, this indicates the amplifier is
powered OFF.
5. Feet: Provides required ¾” spacing when unit is shelf mounted to allow for proper ventilation. These feet
should not be removed. (see the section entitled INSTALLATION for further information)
14
8
7
6
6
12
11
11
13
9
9
10
FIGURE 3 – PA4100X REAR PANEL - FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS
6. Line Inputs. These RCA-type jacks are the audio inputs for each of the amplifier pairs. Connect them to
the Preamp Output jacks of Zone 7 & 8 of the MRC88 (or other driving preamp output) with good quality
RCA-type patch cables. Note that the inputs are marked LEFT-A-RIGHT, LEFT-B-RIGHT signifying the
stereo channel pairs.
7. Input LEVEL Control. This screwdriver adjustable control (for each stereo pair) allows the input level for
full rated power output to be adjusted over a range of 0.2 volts to 3 volts (24.3 dB range). Normally you
would adjust the driving preamp to maximum volume, then set this control to the maximum volume that
the client desires for a given zone or room. This prevents the system from being driven to unwanted
power levels.
8. FUSE. When required, replace only with a fuse of the same type and rating:
ƒꢀ 120 V Version: 10.0 AMP 250 VAC, SLOW BLOW.
ƒꢀ 240 V Version: 5.0 A Time-Lag 250 VAC.
CAUTION: Replacement with a fuse of higher rating will not protect the amplifier and will void the
warranty.
9. SPEAKER Terminals. These plug-in 4-terminal screw type connectors permit speaker wire sizes up to
12 gauge. When making connections for the STEREO mode, be sure to observe the "+” and "–" polarity
markings, just under the LEFT & RIGHT markings, for each wire pair going to the speakers.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 7
10. Grounding Screw. Provides a means for chassis connection to earth ground or to other A/V products to
aid in the reduction of system noise, etc., where needed.
11. REMOTE MASTER ON/OFF and MUTE CONTROL (CI1 & CI2). These two Stereo Mini Jack
connections allow each individual channel pair of the PA4100X to be powered ON and OFF and muted
by a control voltage ranging between 5 and 30 Volts DC (11mA @ 12 V). When connected to the C01
and C02 jacks from Zones 7 & 8 on the Xantech MRC88, this will allow remote Power ON/OFF control
directly from the MRC88 System Controller. This allows the ‘A’ & ’B’ amplifier channel pairs to be
individually controlled by Zones 7 & 8 of the MRC88. (Tip = ON/OFF Standby Control; Ring = Mute
Control; Sleeve = gnd).
12. 3-Conductor AC Line Cord Receptacle. Standard IEC male receptacle for plug-in of a 3-conductor
power line cord. Depending on the application, plug the line cord into a switched or un-switched 120V 60
Hz AC outlet (or 240 VAC 50 Hz on the 240 V version).
13. Rear Panel POWER LED. This LED indicates the AC power ON/OFF condition of the entire PA4100X,
regardless of the Standby state. If the Front Power Switch is in the ON (IN) position and the unit is
connected to an adequate AC Power source, this LED should be illuminated whether the front STATUS
LED’s are ON or OFF.
14. REMOTE/LOCAL CI Control Switch: When set to the ON (UP) position, Remote Standby ON/OFF
control of the amplifier will be determined by the Voltage state applied to the CI1 and CI2 control inputs
(Item #11) (Front Power Switch – Item #2 must be in the IN position). When set to the OFF (DOWN)
position, the amplifier will operate according to the Front Power Switch regardless of voltages applied to
the CI1 and CI2 inputs.
NOTE: With the CI switch in the ON (UP) position, a control signal MUST be used on the CI1 and CI2
inputs otherwise the PA4100X will remain in STANDBY MODE.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
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Model PA4100X
INSTALLATION - PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING
Upper shelf, component, wall, etc.
2-inch spacing
(minimum)
Keep perforations on top cover free
of obstructions!
PA4100X
Convection
Airflow
To maximize air flow, route
single large opening in lower shelf.
Keep perforations on bottom
plate free of obstructions.
Figure 4 – HORIZONTAL MOUNTING
When mounting the PA4100X, you should plan its location carefully. Pay close attention to each of the following
factors:
1. The amplifier is convection cooled. That is, it depends on the natural free flow of air up through the slot
perforations in the bottom plate, over the internal heat dissipating fins, then out the top cover, for adequate
cooling.
2. If mounted in an equipment cabinet or other confining location, allow at least 2 inches of space above the top
cover (see Fig. 4). Be sure there are large openings in the shelf below the unit and in the cabinet to allow the
entry of cool air and the escape of warm air.
NOTE: Do not remove feet in shelf-top installations and make sure top and bottom perforations are free
from obstruction..
3. If the cabinet contains other heat generating components, you will have to pay even closer attention to adequate
ventilation.
4. Do not hesitate to use fans (quiet, boxer type), if necessary, to ensure a constant flow of air through the
PA4100X's and the other heat generating components.
5. When mounting in a 19" (483mm) rack, adding a double RU (Rack Unit) above and a single RU below the
PA4100X will improve convection in heavy use applications.
[One Rack Unit size = 1-3/4" (44.5mm) in height].
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 9
6. In multi-zone installations, you will have large bundles of wire and cable to accommodate audio, video and
speaker connections. Be sure to allow enough strain relief for the leads and dress them in such a manner so as
not to block airflow.
7. The PA4100X is designed for shelf mounting on flat horizontal surfaces. When mounting into a 19" rack, use an
appropriate rack kit.
NOTE: You should consider some sort of rear support for rack mounted units when used in mobile applications
or when located in seismically-active areas.
CONNECTING THE PA4100X
PREAMP OUT
7
L
R
STATUS
ZONE IR
K
E
Y
P
A
D
PA435X
Rear Panel
RCA Type
Patch Cords
LEFT
RIGHT
A
1V
LEVEL
3V
.2V
CI
1
SPEAKER
DO NOT BRIDGE
LEFT
+
-- -R- IGHT
+
Be sure speakers are
connected with correct
polarity as shown.
–
+
–
+
Wall speakers,
shelf speakers, etc.
Left
Right
Figure 5 - PA4100X Stereo Mode Connections
NOTE: When making connections to the PA4100X be sure the AC power cord is unplugged.
Stereo Mode Connections
1. Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the L and R OUTPUT jacks of the MRC88 Pre Amp Output or
other driving preamp to the LEFT and RIGHT input jacks on the PA4100X. Do this for each amplifier pair. Refer
to Fig. 5.
2. Using good quality speaker wire, connect the individual speaker leads to the 4-terminal "SPEAKER" connectors
on the PA4100X as shown.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
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Model PA4100X
3. The PA4100X is 4-Ohm safe in Stereo Mode. Make sure the impedance presented to the speaker terminals by
the speakers (or any combination of speakers) is 4-Ohms minimum.
5. Be sure to observe correct polarity by connecting the "+" and "–" terminal from each channel on the PA4100X to
the corresponding "+" and "–" terminals on each speaker. This will ensure correct "phasing" - see Fig. 5 and
Speaker Phasing below. Since the connectors are removable, you may unplug them for ease of lead assembly.
6. As a rule of thumb, use 18 gauge speaker wire for speaker runs up to 30' (9m), 16 gauge up to 70' (21m), and 14
gauge up to 150' (39m). The 4-terminal connectors accept wire sizes up to 12-gauge max.
7. Strip the insulation back about 1/4" (6mm) and twist the strands on each lead to prevent fraying.
CAUTION: After lead ends are inserted and the screws tightened down, be sure there are no free strands that
could cause shorting!
Speaker Phasing
To obtain stable imaging and full bass response, it is imperative that stereo speakers be connected "in phase" with
each other. You can verify this as follows:
a) If the "+" (positive) and "–" (negative) terminals on your speakers are correctly marked, and visible, and you have
wired the system as shown in Figs. 5, then the system will be "in phase". No further action is required. Most
manufacturers identify the positive terminal with a red binding post, a "+" sign, or a red dot.
b) If you are unsure of the markings, you can verify the phasing. Using a mono sound source, such as AM radio,
alternately reverse the leads to one of the speakers. Pick the connection that delivers a solid center image
between the speakers as well as best bass response.
Connecting the REMOTE MASTER ON/OFF MUTE CONTROL
As mentioned under "PA4100X PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS", the REMOTE MASTER ON/OFF
CONTROL inputs (CI1 & CI2) will allow the power to the PA4100X to be turned ON, OFF, and MUTED by remotely
applied DC Voltages. Fig. 7 illustrates how a PA4100X can be switched ON and OFF via the MRC88 Zone 7 & 8
Control Outputs (CO1 and CO2) or other control source.
NOTE: To enable this feature, be sure the CI Switch (Item #14) is in the ON (UP) position.
On/Off Standby Control:
Whenever a 5 to 30v dc voltage is applied to the TIP of the 3.5mm Stereo jack, the associated Amplifier channel will
be activated (Powered ON). When the signal applied to the TIP approaches GND, it will put the associated Amplifier
channel in STANDBY Mode. If both Amplifier channels are in STANDBY MODE the Amplifier will enter a “low power”
STANDBY mode (Illuminated LOGO will remain ON).
Mute Control:
Whenever a 5 to 30v dc voltage is applied to the RING of the 3.5mm Stereo jack, the associated Amplifier channels
signal output will be MUTED. When the signal applied to the RING approaches GND it will UN-MUTE the associated
Amplifier channel and the audio signal will be returned to its previous level.
Ring:12v DC = AMP MUTED
Tip:12vDC = AMP ON
Insulators
Sleeve=GND
3.5mm Mini Plug
(3-Conductor)
Figure 6: CI Control Jack Pin Out Config
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 11
MRC88 Rear Panel
Zones 7 & 8
PREAMP OUT
8
PREAMP OUT
7
L
R
L
R
STATUS
STATUS
ZONE IR
ZONE IR
K
E
Y
P
A
D
K
E
Y
P
A
D
REMOTE AMP
CO1
REMOTE AMP
CO1
VIDEO
OUT 7
VIDEO
OUT 8
PA435X
Rear Panel
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
A
1V
1V
LEVEL
3V
LEVEL
3V
.2V
.2V
CI
2
CI
1
SPEAKER
SPEAKER
DO NOT BRIDGE
DO NOT BRIDGE
LEFT
+
-- -R- IGHT
+
LEFT
+
-- -R- IGHT
+
Figure 7: Using the PA4100X REMOTE MASTER ON/OFF CONTROL Terminals
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
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Model PA4100X
A Multi-Zone System Diagram Using The PA4100X and MRC88
Fig. 8, following, shows the PA4100X in a typical multi-room system with a Xantech MRC88 eight-zone preamp.
Use 3.5mm
Stereo Mini Plug
Cables
RCA Type
Patch Cords
ZONE 7
ZONE 8
To Speakers in Rooms
Figure 8: Interfacing the PA4100X with an MRC88 Zones 7 & 8
In this case:
1. Using good quality RCA Stereo Patch Cords, connect the Preamp Outputs of Zone 7 on the MRC88 to
the Left and Right Audio Inputs labeled ‘A’ on the rear of the PA4100X.
2. Similar to step 1, connect the Preamp Outputs of Zone 8 on the MRC88 to the Left and Right Audio
Inputs labeled ‘B’ on the rear of the PA4100X.
3. Using two 3.5mm Stereo Mini Plug cables, connect the Remote Amp CO1 jack on the rear of the
MRC88 to the CI1 jack on the rear of the PA4100X
4. Similar to step 3, connect the Remote Amp CO2 jack on the rear of the MRC88 to the CI2 jack on the
rear of the PA4100X.
5. Set the CI Switch (Item #14) to the ON (UP) position.
The Remote Amp CO1 & CO2 (Remote Control Jack) from the MRC88 allows for individual Zone control
directly from the Zone 7 & 8 keypads of the MRC88 system. When any one of the zones is turned on, the
PA4100X is powered ON. Similarly, when either Zone is powered down, the associated amplifier pair on the
PA4100X is put into STANDBY Mode. When both Zones (7 & 8) are powered down, the PA4100X will either
go into STANDBY Mode on both amplifier pairs or will be POWERED OFF depending upon the position of the
front panel POWER/STANDBY button (IN = STANDBY; OUT = ON/OFF).
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 13
TROUBLE SHOOTING
If you encounter a problem, please review the items in the following list. Be sure, in addition, to check other system
components, such as preamplifiers, CD players, speakers, speaker wiring, etc., that may be at fault.
PROBLEM
PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION
Rear panel Power Indicator does not light – no sound.
Check line cord for good contact in a live AC outlet. If
REMOTE CI jacks are being used, be sure applied
voltage is between +5V and +30V DC with proper
polarity. See Fig. 6.
Sound cuts in and out every 3 to 5 seconds.
Speaker load impedance is less than 4-Ohms for
Stereo mode or less than 8-Ohms for Bridged mode.
Make changes in speakers as necessary to obtain
higher impedance.
PA4100X does not turn OFF when both REMOTE input Be sure that the CI Switch (item 14, Fig. 3) is set to the
voltages go to 0 Volts. The Logo stays illuminated.
CI ON (UP) position.
PA4100X becomes very warm, shuts OFF, but does
not come back ON automatically.
Set POWER switch (item 2, Fig. 2) to MANUAL OFF
(OUT) position for 15 seconds, then back ON. If
REMOTE ON/OFF jack is used, unplug for 15 seconds,
then re-plug with Front Power OFF.
One or more front panel LED’s glow red.
The amplifier has been driven into clipping and/or is
overheating. Correct faulty condition.
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Page 14
Model PA4100X
SPECIFICATIONS
Number of channels
4
Power Output
100 Watts at 8 Ohms
Rated continuous power, each channel, all six channels
simultaneously driven, 20 Hz to 20kHz, at rated THD
Power Output
150 Watts at 8 Ohms & at 4 Ohms
Short term continuous, each channel, 2 channels driven,
1 kHz, at rated THD
Rated THD
< 0.08%
> 100
Damping Factor
at 50 Hz, half rated power
S/N Ratio
> 100 dB
A-weighted, shorted inputs, ref to rated power
Frequency Response
12 Hz to 55 kHz
at 1 Watt, 3dB
Input Sensitivity
Max: 0.2 V
Default: 1.0 V
Minimum: 3V
at rated power, stereo mode, input gain
Input Impedance
Power Source
Local Inputs: 22 kOhms
Common Audio Buss Inputs: 70kOhms
120 VAC, 60 Hz
TMRA 35° Celsius (95° F). If this temperature is exceeded,
you will need to provide additional ventilation to ensure proper
operation.
240 VAC, 50 Hz (European version)
Power Consumption
No signal: 30 Watts
Standby Mode: 5 Watts
4 Channels at rated power: 1050 Watts
Remote On/Off/Mute CI1 & CI2 Voltage/Current
Line Fuse Rating
+5 V to +30 VDC (11mA at +12 VDC)
120V version: 10A Slow Blow 250 VAC
240V version: 5A Time-Lag 250 VAC
Dimensions
Weight
17” W x 6” H x 12.5” D
(432 mm W x 152.4 mm H x 317.5 mm D)
35.4 lbs (16.1 Kg)
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model PA4100X
Page 15
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
Page 16
Model PA4100X
XANTECH CORPORATION
12950 Bradley Avenue, Sylmar CA 91342-3829
phone 818.362.0353 • fax 818.362.9506
Part No. 08901195 Rev B 04-03-2003
© 2003 Xantech Corporation
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