Crown Audio I-Tech User Manual

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I-Tech Series

I-T4000

Operation Manual

I-T6000

I-T8000

Obtaining Other Language Versions: To obtain information in another language about the use of this product, please contact your local Crown Distributor. If you need assistance locating your local distributor, please contact Crown at 574-294-8000.

This manual does not include all of the details of design, production, or variations of the equipment. Nor does it cover every possible situation which may arise during installation, operation or maintenance.

The information provided in this manual was deemed accurate as of the publication date. However, updates to this information may have occurred. To obtain the latest version of this manual, please visit the Crown website at www.crownaudio.com.

Trademark Notice: Crown, Crown Audio, IQ, IQ System, BCA, and Amcron are registered trademarks of Crown International. IQwic and TCP/IQ are trademarks of Crown International. HiQnet is a trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Some models may be exported under the name Amcron.®

 

©2007 by Crown Audio® Inc., 1718 W. Mishawaka Rd., Elkhart, Indiana 46517-9439 U.S.A. Telephone: 574-294-8000

137289-10

 

11/07

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Important Safety Instructions

Wichtige Sicherheitsinstruktionen

Importantes Instructions de Sécurité

Instrucciones de Seguridad Importantes

The I-Tech Series amplifiers are certified only at 120V in Canada.

IMPORTANT

1)Read these instructions.

2)Keep these instructions.

3)Heed all warnings.

4)Follow all instructions.

5)Do not use this apparatus near water.

6)Clean only with a dry cloth.

7)Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8)Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9)Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or groundingtype plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10)Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11)Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12)Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

13)Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14)Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15)Use the mains plug to disconnect the apparatus from the mains.

16)WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

17)DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING AND ENSURE THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, ARE PLACED ON THE EQUIPMENT.

18)THE MAINS PLUG OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE.

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE TOP OR BOTTOM COVERS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

À PRÉVENIR LE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE N’ENLEVEZ PAS LES COUVERCLES. IL N’Y A PAS DES PARTIES SERVICEABLE À L’INTÉRIEUR. TOUS REPARATIONS DOIT ETRE FAIRE PAR PERSONNEL QUALIFIÉ SEULMENT.

PARA PREVENIR UN CHOQUE ELÉCTRICO, NO RETIRE LAS CUBIERTAS SUPERIOR O INFERIOR. NO EXISTEN PARTES QUE PUEDAN SER REPARADAS POR EL USUARIO AL INTERIOR. REMITA EL SERVICICO AL PERSONAL TÉCHNICAL CALIFICADO.

TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS EQUIPMENT FROM THE AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE. THE MAINS PLUG OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE.

POUR DÉMONTER COMPLÈTEMENT L'ÉQUIPEMENT DE L'ALIMENTATION GÉNÉRALE, DÉMONTER LE CÂBLE D'ALIMENTATION DE SON RÉCEPTACLE. LA PRISE D'ALIMENTATION RESTERA AISÉMENT FONCTIONNELLE.

PARA DESCONECTAR COMPLETAMENTE EL EQUIPO DEL SUMINSTRO ELECTRICO, DESCONECTE EL CABLE DE ALIMENTACION DE LA TOMA DE CA. LAS PATAS DEL CONECTOR DEL CABLE DE ALIMENTACIÓN DEBERAN MANTENERSE EN BUEN ESTADO.

WATCH FOR THESE SYMBOLS:

The lightning bolt triangle is used to alert the user to the risk of electric shock.

The exclamation point triangle is used to alert the user to important operating or maintenance instructions.

REGARDEZ CES SYMBOLES

La triangle avec le sigle ‘’foudre’’ est employée pour alerter l'utilisateur au risque de décharge électrique. Le triangle avec un point d'exclamation est employée pour alerter l'utilisateur d’instruction importantes pour lors opérations de maintenance.

ATENCION CON ESTOS SÍMBOLOS

El triángulo con el símbolo de rayo eléctrico es usado para alertar al usuario de el riesgo de un choque eléctrico.

El triángulo con el signo de admiración es usado para alertar al usuario de instrucciones importantes de operación o mantenimiento.

I-Tech Series amplifiers require Class 2 output wiring.

Les amplificateurs de série de I-Tech exigent des câbles de sortie de classe 2.

I-Tech-Reihe-Verstärker verlangen Klasse die 2 Produktionsverdrahtung.

Los amplificadores de la Serie I-tech requieren de un cableado de salida Clase 2.

MAGNETIC FIELD

CAUTION! Do not locate sensitive high-gain equipment such as preamplifiers or tape decks directly above or below the unit. Because this amplifier has a high power density, it has a strong magnetic field which can induce hum into unshielded devices that are located nearby. The field is strongest just above and below the unit.

If an equipment rack is used, we recommend locating the amplifier(s) in the bottom of the rack and the preamplifier or other sensitive equipment at the top.

FCC COMPLIANCE NOTICE

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

page 2

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Crown International, Inc.

DECLARATION of CONFORMITY

ISSUED BY: Crown International, Inc.

FOR COMPLIANCE QUESTIONS ONLY: Sue Whitfield

1718 W. Mishawaka Road

574-294-8289

Elkhart, Indiana 46517 U.S.A.

swhitfield@crownintl.com

 

 

European Representative's Name and Address:

 

David Budge

 

10 Harvest Close

 

Yateley GU46 6YS

 

United Kingdom

 

Equipment Type: Commercial Audio Power Amplifiers

Family Name: I-Tech

Model Names: I-T4000, I-T6000, I-T8000

EMC Standards:

EN 55103-1:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 1: Emissions

EN 55103-1:1997 Magnetic Field Emissions-Annex A @ 10 cm and 20 cm

EN 61000-3-2:2001 Limits for Harmonic Current Emissions (equipment input current less than or equal to 16 A per phase)

EN 61000-3-3:2002 Limitation of Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker in Low-Voltage Supply Systems Rated Current less than or equal to16A

EN 55022:2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of ITE: Radiated, Class B Limits; Conducted, Class A

EN 55103-2:1997 Electromagnetic Compatibility - Product Family Standard for Audio, Video, Audio-Visual and Entertainment Lighting Control Apparatus for Professional Use, Part 2: Immunity

EN 61000-4-2:2001 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity (Environment E2-Criteria B, 4k V Contact, 8k V Air Discharge)

EN 61000-4-3:2001 Radiated, Radio-Frequency, Electromagnetic Immunity (Environment E2, criteria A)

EN 61000-4-4:2001 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity (Criteria B)

EN 61000-4-5:2001 Surge Immunity (Criteria B)

EN 61000-4-6:2003 Immunity to Conducted Disturbances Induced by Radio-Frequency Fields (Criteria A)

EN 61000-4-11:2001 Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Voltage Variation

Safety Standard:

IEC 60065: 2001 7th Ed. Safety Requirements - Audio Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus

I certify that the product identified above conforms to the requirements of the EMC Council Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC, and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EES as amended by 93/68/EEC.

Signed

Date of Issue: May 1, 2004

Title: Senior Vice President of Manufacturing

Operation Manual

Due to line current harmonics, we recommend that you contact your supply authority before connection.

page 3

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Getting Started With I-Tech

Welcome! Operating your I-Tech amplifier can be as simple or advanced as you wish. Right out of the box, it works like any other amplifier with stereo loudspeaker loads.

For bridge-mono operation, see page 5.

If you want to control and monitor the amplifier with Crown’s IQ System® software, see Section 4.5.4. If you are going to use SystemArchitect, please follow the information included with System Architect.

If you want to load DSP presets or perform diagnostics using the amplifier’s LCD control screen (Figure A.3), see Section 4.2.

You can refer to this Quick-Start Guide to get up and running quickly. To learn about I-Tech’s many advanced features, please see the rest of this manual.

Quick-Start Guide: Stereo Wiring

Let’s assume that you unpacked and installed your amplifier with the proper cooling. If not, see Section 2 in this manual. We’ll also assume that you will operate the amplifier in stereo. If you want to operate your amplifier in bridge-mono, skip to page 5.

1. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier. Unplug its power cord from the AC outlet. The amplifier must be grounded when plugged into AC power.

2. See Figure A.1. Connect two cables from your mixer output to the amplifier’s XLR input connectors.

3. Using Class 2 wiring, connect speaker cables either to the amplifier’s Speakon® connectors (as in Figure A.2) or to the binding posts (as in Figure A.1.)

4. Turn down your mixer master faders. Plug the power cord into the amplifier and then into an AC outlet. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure A.3).

5. Using both Encoder knobs (Level controls), set Attenuation to 0 dB. Press the Menu/Exit button, then the Next button, to access CH1 Sensitivity. Turn an Encoder knob fully down (CCW) until the minimum dB gain is displayed. Then press Next and repeat for CH2 Sensitivity. See Appendix B for details.

6. Play a program through your mixer. Set its level to peak at 0 dB or 0 VU maximum on the mixer meters. Gradually turn up (CW) the amplifier Encoder knobs (Level controls) to the desired volume for CH2. Press Prev and repeat for CH1. Press Exit when done.

Note: If the SPL is too high at the beginning of Step 6, press Menu/Exit, then press Next until you see ADVANCED MENU. Push an Encoder knob. Press Next until you see MAXIMUM ANALOG INPUT. Press an Encoder knob so the display reads 21 dBu. Press Menu/Exit twice. Press Next. CH1 Sensitivity will be displayed. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob to the desired volume for CH1. Press Next and repeat for CH2. Press Exit when done.

CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.

Figure A.1 Rear-panel Connections for Stereo Wiring

Figure A.2 Wiring Two Speakers to Two Speakon Connectors for Stereo Operation

Top Speakon (Channel 1)

Channel 1

Loudspeaker

Bottom Speakon (Channel 2)

Channel 2

Loudspeaker

Figure A.3

The LCD Control Screen

page 4

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Quick-Start Guide: Bridge-Mono Wiring

Let’s assume that you unpacked and installed your amplifier with the proper cooling. If not, see Section 2 in this manual. We’ll also assume that you will operate the amplifier in BridgeMono. Basically you will turn on the amp, enable Bridge-Mono mode with the LCD Control Screen, turn off the amp, wire it, and turn it back on.

1. Be sure that no cables are connected to the amplifier. Plug the amplifier power cord into the amplifier, then into an AC outlet.

2. Turn on the amplifier power switch on the front panel. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure A.4).

3. Under the LCD Control Screen, press the Menu/Exit button. Press the Next button until you see Output Mode on the screen.

4. Press either Encoder knob to select BRIDGE MONO. Press and hold the knob to confirm your choice. Press the Menu/Exit button.

5. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier. Unplug its power cord from the AC outlet. The amplifier must be grounded when plugged into AC power.

6. See Figure A.5. Connect a cable from your mixer output to the amplifier’s Channel-1 XLR input connector.

7. Using Class 2 wiring, connect the speaker cable either to the amplifier’s top Speakon connector (terminals 1+ and 2+, Figure A.6) or across the red binding posts of both channels (Figure A.5). Do not use the black binding posts in bridge-mono mode.

8. Turn down your mixer master faders. Plug the power cord into the amplifier and then into

an AC outlet. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up

(Figure A.3).

9. Using both Encoder knobs (Level controls), set Attenuation to 0 dB. Press the Menu/

Exit button, then the Next button, to access CH1 Sensitivity. Turn an Encoder knob fully

down (CCW) until the minimum dB gain is displayed. See Appendix B for details.

10. Play a program through your mixer. Set its level to peak at 0 dB or 0 VU maximum on the mixer meters. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob (Level control) to the desired volume for CH1. Press Exit when done.

Note: If the SPL is too high at the beginning of Step 10, press Menu/Exit, then press Next until you see ADVANCED MENU. Push an Encoder knob. Press Next until you see MAXIMUM ANALOG INPUT. Press an Encoder knob so the display reads 21 dBu. Press Menu/ Exit twice. Press Next. CH1 Sensitivity will be displayed. Gradually turn up (CW) the left Encoder knob to the desired volume for CH1. Press Exit when done.

Operation Manual

Figure A.5 Rear Panel Connections

for Bridge-Mono Wiring

CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.

Figure A.4

The LCD Control Screen

Figure A.6

Wiring a Speaker to the Top Speakon Connector for Bridge-Mono Operation

page 5

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

Table of Contents

Important Safety Instructions ............................................................

2

Declaration of Conformity..................................................................

3

Getting Started with I-Tech ................................................................

4

Quick Start Guide: Stereo Wiring.......................................................

4

Quick Start Guide: Bridge-Mono Wiring............................................

5

Table of Contents...............................................................................

6

1 Welcome ........................................................

7

1.1

Features ................................................................................

7

1.2

How to Use This Manual .......................................................

7

2 Setup ............................................................

8

2.1

Unpack and Install Your Amplifier ........................................

8

2.2

Connecting to AC Mains ......................................................

9

2.3

Wire Inputs and Outputs .......................................................

9

3 Operation .......................................................

13

3.1

Protecting Your Speakers ......................................................

13

3.2

Startup Procedure .................................................................

13

3.3

Precautions ..........................................................................

13

3.4

Front Panel Controls and Indicators .....................................

14

3.5

Back Panel Controls, Indicators and Connectors ..................

15

4 Advanced Operation............................................

16

4.1

Advanced Operation Table of Contents ..................................

16

4.2

Navigating the LCD Control Screen.......................................

17

4.3

Presets ..................................................................................

22

4.4

Digital-Audio Options (AES/EBU)..........................................

22

4.5

Network Setup Wizard ...........................................................

23

4.6

Software-Controllable Onboard DSP ....................................

24

5 Troubleshooting ................................................

27

6 Specifications ..................................................

29

6.1 Performance ...........................................................................

29

6.2 Charts.....................................................................................

31

7 AC Power Draw and Thermal Dissipation ..................

32

8 Advanced Features ............................................

35

8.1

Protection Systems ...............................................................

35

8.2

Global, Switching Power Supply with PFC ...........................

35

8.3

3rd Generation Class I Circuitry ............................................

35

8.4. Color-Coded Rear Overlay ...................................................

35

8.5

Rear Rack Ears with Integral EZ-Rack Pin ..............................

35

9 Appendix A: Network Basics..................................

36

Appendix B: Setting Sensitivity for Best Gain Staging....

38

10 Service .........................................................

39

11 Warranty .......................................................

40

Product Registration..........................................................................

43

Crown Factory Service Information Form .........................................

45

page 6

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

I-T4000

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Power

2-ohm Dual (per ch.)

1,800W

4-ohm Dual (per ch.)

2,000W

8-ohm Dual (per ch.)

1,250W

4-ohm Bridge

3,600W

8-ohm Bridge

4,000W

20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.

I-T6000

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Power

2-ohm Dual (per ch.)

2,500W

4-ohm Dual (per ch.)

3,000W

8-ohm Dual (per ch.)

1,500W

4-ohm Bridge

5,000W

8-ohm Bridge

6,000W

20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.

I-T8000

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Power

2-ohm Dual (per ch.)

3,500W

4-ohm Dual (per ch.)

4,000W

8-ohm Dual (per ch.)

2,100W

4-ohm Bridge

7,000W

8-ohm Bridge

8,000W

20 Hz - 20 kHz Power refers to guaranteed minimum power in watts with 0.35% THD.

1 Welcome

The Crown® I-Tech Series offers amazing power, light weight and ease of use for touring sound applications. Unlike other amplifiers, it includes onboard DSP, an LCD control screen, and a built-in network connection.

Modern power amplifiers are sophisticated pieces of engineering capable of producing extremely high power levels. They must be treated with respect and correctly installed if they are to provide the many years of reliable service for which they were designed.

In addition, I-Tech Series amplifiers include a number of features which require some explanation before they can be used to their maximum advantage.

Please take the time to study this manual so that you can obtain the best possible service from your amplifier.

1.1 Features

Global Power Supply with PFC (Power Factor Correction) works anywhere in the world.

High power density, up to 8000 watts in a 2U chassis.

Highest output voltage in the industry (200V peak) provides clean transient peaks.

Menu/Exit

Prev

Next

1

 

2

3rd-generation patented Class I (BCA®) circuitry couples power efficiently to the load and provides low AC current draw.

Onboard DSP with 24-bit, 96 kHz Cirrus Logic A/D and D/A converters.

Pushbutton presets simplify setup. Custom presets for various loudspeakers can be downloaded.

AES/EBU digital audio input. Ethernet connector accepts RJ-45 connector for HiQnet™ or TCP/IQ networking.

Analog and digital thru connectors.

LCD Control Screen is used to adjust the amplifier's attenuation and muting, configure the amp, set up and view error monitoring, and recall DSP presets to reconfigure the amp for various applications.

Comprehensive array of indicators provide accurate diagnostics: Power, Data, Bridge, along with Ready, Signal, Clip, Thermal and Fault for each channel.

AC mains indicator in power switch glows green when AC power is present.

Light weight due to aluminum chassis, special internal construction and switching power supply.

Thermal management controller and two discrete thermal zones with variable-speed fans, forced-air cooling.

Advanced protection circuitry guards against: shorted outputs, DC, mismatched loads, general overheating, under/over voltage, high-frequency overloads and internal faults.

Three-Year, No-Fault, Fully Transferable Warranty completely protects your investment and guarantees its specifications.

1.2 How to Use This Manual

This manual provides you with the necessary information to safely and correctly setup and operate your amplifier. It does not cover every aspect of installation, setup or operation that might occur under every condition. For additional information, please consult Crown’s

Amplifier Application Guide and I-Tech Application Guide (available online at www.crownaudio.com), Crown Technical Support, your system installer or retailer.

We strongly recommend you read all instructions, warnings and cautions contained in this manual. Also, for your protection, please send in your warranty registration card today. And save your bill of sale — it’s your official proof of purchase.

Operation Manual

page 7

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

2 Setup

2.1 Unpack and Install Your Amplifier

Please unpack and inspect your amplifier for any damage that may have occurred during transit. If damage is found, notify the transportation company immediately. Only you can initiate a claim for shipping damage. Crown will be happy to help as needed. Save the shipping carton as evidence of damage for the shipper’s inspection.

We also recommend that you save all packing materials so you will have them if you ever need to transport the unit. Never ship the unit without the factory pack.

YOU WILL NEED (not supplied):

• Input wiring cables

• Output wiring cables

Rack for mounting amplifier (or a stable surface for stacking)

WARNING: Before you start to set up your amplifier, make sure you read and observe the Important Safety Instructions found at the beginning of this manual.

CAUTION: Before you begin, make sure your amplifier is disconnected from the power source, with the power switch in the “off” position and all level controls turned completely down (counterclockwise).

Use a standard 19-inch (48.3 cm) equipment rack (EIA RS-310B). See Figure 2.1 for amplifier dimensions.

You may also stack amps without using a cabinet.

NOTE: When transporting, amplifiers should be supported at both front and back.

MAGNETIC FIELD

CAUTION! Do not locate sensitive high-gain equipment such as preamplifiers or tape decks directly above or below the unit. Because this amplifier has a high power density, it has a strong magnetic field which can induce hum into unshielded devices that are located nearby. The field is strongest on the right side and right bottom of the amplifier (facing the amplifier).

If an equipment rack is used, we recommend locating sensitive equipment at least 20 cm (8 inches) away from the amplifier.

3.5 In.

8.9 cm

19 In.

48.3 cm

1.5 In.

3.8 cm

16.2In.

41.1cm

Figure 2.1

Dimensions

When using an equipment rack, mount units directly on top of each other. Close any open spaces in rack with blank panels. DO NOT block front or rear air vents. The side walls of the rack should be a minimum of two inches (5.1 cm) away from the amplifier sides, and the back of the rack should be a minimum of four inches (10.2 cm) from the amplifier back panel.

Figure 2.2 illustrates standard amplifier airflow.

Figure 2.2 Airflow

page 8

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

2 Setup

2.2 Connecting to AC Mains

WARNING: The third (ground) prong of the supplied AC power cord connector is a required safety feature. Do not attempt to disable this ground connection by using an adapter or other methods.

Amplifiers don’t create energy. The AC mains voltage and current must be sufficient to deliver the power you expect. You must operate your amplifier from an AC mains power source with not more than a 10% variation above or a 15% variation below the amplifier’s specified line voltage range and within the specified frequency requirements (indicated on the amplifier’s back panel label). If you are unsure of the output voltage of your AC mains, please consult your electrician.

Packed with your I-Tech amplifier is a clip that retains the power cord so it can’t pull out accidentally.

1.Locate the clip in a bag in the I-Tech packing carton.

2.Locate the IEC power connector on the back of the amplifier. Above and below that connector are two slots. Stretch the ends of the clip and insert them into the slots (Figure 2.3).

3.Plug the power cord all the way into the amplifier IEC power connector.

4.Pull the clip to the left and snap it onto the power cord.

CERTIFIED ONLY AT

120 V IN CANADA

Slot

 

 

 

Clip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slot

 

IEC Power Connector

 

Figure 2.3 IEC Power Connector Clip

2.3 Wire Inputs and Outputs

2.3.1 Wiring basics

Always use shielded wire for input wiring. The higher the density of the shield (the outer conductor) the better. Spiral wrapped shield is not recommended.

When using unbalanced lines keep the cables as short as possible. Avoid lengths greater than 10 feet (3 meters).

Do not run the audio input cables together with the high-level wiring such as loudspeaker wires or AC cords. (This lessens the chance of hum and noise being induced into the input cables.)

Turn the entire sound system off before changing any connections. Crown is not liable for damage incurred when any transducer or component is overdriven.

THE CHANNEL 2 INPUT IS IGNORED if the amplifier is used in BridgeMono mode.

For additional information on audio input wiring please refer to the Crown Amplifier Application Guide available online at www.crownaudio.com. It contains helpful information on preventing unwanted subsonic frequencies, radio frequency interference, ground loops, and feedback oscillation.

Operation Manual

page 9

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

2Setup

2.3.2Choose Input Wire and Connectors

Crown recommends using pre-built or professionally wired, balanced line (two-conductor plus shield), 22-24 gauge cables and connectors. Use 3-pin male XLR connectors.

Unbalanced line may also be used but may result in noise over long cable runs.

Figure 2.4 shows connector pin assignments for balanced analog wiring or AES/EBU digital wiring. The use of standard analog cable with AES/EBU will result in diminished performance. For best results, 110 ohm shielded twisted-pair cable for AES/EBU signals is highly recommended. Figure 2.5 shows connector pin assignments for unbalanced analog wiring.

NOTE: Custom wiring should only be performed by qualified personnel.

2.3.3 Choose Output Wire and Connectors

Crown recommends using pre-built or professionally wired, high-quality, twoor four-conductor, heavy gauge speaker wire and connectors. Use Class 2 output wiring. You may use a 4-pole Speakon connector (Figure 2.6) or banana plugs, spade lugs, or bare wire for your output connectors (Figure 2.7). To prevent the possibility of short circuits, wrap or otherwise insulate exposed loudspeaker cable connectors.

CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.

Using the guidelines below, select the appropriate size of wire based on the distance from amplifier to speaker.

Distance

Wire Size

up to 25 ft.

16 AWG

26-40 ft.

14

AWG

41-60 ft.

12

AWG

61-100 ft.

10

AWG

101-150 ft.

8

AWG

151-250 ft.

6

AWG

CAUTION: Never use shielded cable for output wiring.

Figure 2.4

Balanced Analog Input Connector Wiring or AES/EBU Digital Connector Wiring

Figure 2.6

Left: Speakon Output Connector on Back Panel Right: Speakon Cable Connector

Figure 2.5 Unbalanced Analog Input Connector Wiring

Figure 2.7

Binding Post Connections

page 10

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

2 Setup

2.3.4 Stereo Mode Wiring

Typical input and output wiring is shown in Figure 2.8.

IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier and unplug its power cord.

INPUTS: Choose one of these options:

Connect analog input wiring for both channels.

Connect an AES/EBU digital signal to the AES/EBU connector.

OUTPUTS: Maintain proper polarity (+/–) on output connectors. Use Class 2 output wiring.

Figure 2.8 shows how to wire stereo speakers to the binding posts. Connect Channel 1 loudspeaker’s positive (+) lead to Channel 1 positive (red) terminal of amp; repeat for negative (–). Repeat Channel 2 wiring as for Channel 1.

To wire stereo speakers to the Speakon connectors, use one of these methods:

Method 1 (Table 1 and Figure 2.9): Wire one Speakon cable connector to two speakers. Insert the Speakon cable connector into the amplifier’s top Speakon connector.

Method 2 (Table 2 and Figure 2.10): Plug the Channel 1 speaker into the Channel 1 (top) Speakon connector, and plug the Channel 2 speaker into the Channel 2 (bottom) Speakon connector.

Figure 2.8

System Wiring,

Stereo Mode

Table 1

Stereo Wiring Method 1: Use Top Speakon Only

 

PIN

1+

 

 

1–

2+

2–

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CH

1+

 

 

1–

2+

2–

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Channel 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Channel 2

Loudspeaker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loudspeaker

Enceinte du

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enceinte du

Canal 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Canal 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lautsprecher

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lautsprecher

Kanal 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kanal 2

Altoparlante

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Altoparlante

del Canal 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

del Canal 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 2.9 Wiring Two Stereo Speakers to the Top Speakon Connector

 

Table 2

 

Top Speakon

 

 

(Channel 1)

Figure 2.10

Stereo Wiring Method 2: Use Both Speakons

 

Stereo Wiring Using

 

Both Speakon

 

 

 

 

PIN

1+

1–

 

Connectors

Channel 1

 

Top Speakon

 

 

 

 

 

Loudspeaker

 

CH

1+

1–

 

 

 

PIN

1+

1–

Bottom

 

Speakon

 

Bottom Speakon

 

 

(Channel 2)

 

CH

2+

2–

 

Channel 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loudspeaker

Operation Manual

page 11

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

2 Setup

2.3.5 Bridge-Mono Mode

Overview: Turn on the amp, enable Bridge-Mono mode using the LCD Control

Screen, turn off the amp, wire it, and turn it back on.

1.Be sure that no cables are connected to the amplifier. Turn on the front-panel power switch. The LCD Control Screen will light up (Figure 2.11).

2.Under the LCD Control Screen, press the Menu/Exit button. Press the Next

button until you see OUTPUT MODE on the screen.

3. Press an Encoder knob to select BRIDGE MONO. Press the knob again to confirm

 

your choice. Press Menu/Exit. Turn down both level controls (Encoders) until you

 

reach maximum attenuation.

 

4. IMPORTANT: Turn off the amplifier and unplug its power cord.

 

INPUTS: There are three ways to connect an input signal to the amplifier (Figure

 

2.12):

Figure 2.12 Bridge-Mono Wiring to Binding Posts

• Connect an analog signal source to the Channel-1 amplifier input.

 

• Connect an AES/EBU digital signal source to the Digital Input IN connector.

NOTE: Crown provides a reference of wiring pin assignments for commonly used connector types in the Crown Amplifier Application Guide available at www.crownaudio.com.

OUTPUTS: Use Class 2 output wiring. There are two ways to wire the amplifier output connectors for Bridge-Mono mode:

1) Wire the speaker across the red binding post of each channel (Figure 2.12). Do not use the black binding posts when operating in Bridge-Mono mode.

2) Wire the speaker only to the top Speakon connector as shown in Table 3 and Figure 2.13.

Figure 2.11

The LCD Control Screen

NOTE: In Bridge-Mono mode, the Channel 1 Level control sets the level; the Channel 2 Level control is defeated.

Table 3

Top Speakon Wiring for Bridge-Mono

PIN

1+

2+

 

 

 

SPKR

+

 

 

 

Figure 2.13

Wiring a Speaker in Bridge-Mono Mode to the Top Speakon Connector

page 12

Operation Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

3Operation

3.1Protecting Your Speakers

It's wise to avoid clipping the amplifier signal. Not only does clipping sound bad, it can damage high-frequency drivers. To prevent clipping, use IQwic™ or System Architect software to enable or display the peak voltage limiter and average power limiter in your amplifier’s built-in DSP. That way, no matter how strong a signal your mixer produces, the amplifier output will not clip. Set the limiter threshold so that mixer signals above 0 dB or 0 VU on the mixer meters do not quite drive the amplifier into clipping.

Also, avoid sending strong subsonic signals to the amplifier. Highlevel, low-frequency signals from breath pops or dropped microphones can blow out drivers. To prevent subsonic signals, use one of these methods:

Insert a highpass filter between mixer output and amplifier input (or between mixer and limiter).

Use the I-Tech’s onboard DSP to set up a highpass filters.

Switch in highpass filters at your mixer. Set the filter to as high a frequency as possible that does not affect your program. For example, try 35 Hz for music and 75 Hz for speech. On each mixer input channel, set the filter frequency just below the lowest fundamental frequency of that channel's instrument.

3.2 Startup Procedure

When first turning on your amplifier, follow the procedures in the Quick-Start Guide on page 4 (stereo) or page 5 (bridge-mono).

If you ever need to make any wiring or installation changes, don’t forget to disconnect the power cord.

For help with determining your system’s optimum gain structure (signal levels) please refer to the Crown Amplifier Application Guide, available online at www.crownaudio.com.

3.3 Precautions

Your amplifier is protected from internal and external faults, but you should still take the following precautions for optimum performance and safety:

1.Before use, your amplifier first must be configured for proper operation, including input and output wiring hookup. Improper wiring can result in serious operating difficulties. For information on wiring and configuration, please consult the Setup section of this manual or, for advanced setup techniques, consult Crown’s

Amplifier Application Guide available online at www.crownaudio.com.

2.Use care when making connections, selecting signal sources and controlling the output level. The load you save may be your own!

3.Do not short the ground lead of an output cable to the input signal ground. This may form a ground loop and cause oscillations.

4.WARNING: Never connect the output to a power supply, battery or power main. Electrical shock may result.

5.Tampering with the circuitry, or making unauthorized circuit changes may be hazardous and invalidates all agency listings.

6.Do not operate the amplifier with the red Clip LEDs constantly flashing.

7.Do not overdrive the mixer, which will cause clipped signal to be sent to the amplifier. Such signals will be reproduced with extreme accuracy, and loudspeaker damage may result.

8.Do not operate the amplifier with less than the rated load impedance. Due to the amplifier’s output protection, such a configuration may result in premature clipping and speaker damage.

9.CAUTION – SHOCK HAZARD: Potentially lethal voltages exist at the output connectors when the amplifier is turned on and is passing a signal.

Remember: Crown is not liable for damage that results from overdriving other system components.

Operation Manual

page 13

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

3Operation

3.4Front Panel Controls and Indicators

A. Cooling Vents

Front-to-rear forced airflow through foam dust filter.

LCD Control Screen and Controls

B. LCD Control Screen

Integrated LCD with white backlight, controls amplifier setup and operation.

The LCD Control Screen and its controls let the user adjust the amplifier's attenuation and muting, configure the amp, set up and view error monitoring (such as temperature and load supervision), and recall DSP presets. The presets allow the user to quickly reconfigure the amp for various applications.

C. Level Controls (Encoders)

Speed-sensitive, 0.5 dB steps, range 0 to –100 dB. These two knobs affect the Channel-1 and Channel-2 output levels. They also select Menu items and adjust parameter values that are displayed on the LCD control screen.

D. Menu/Exit Button

“Menu” enters the main menu. “Exit” leaves the menu.

E. Prev Button

Selects the previous item in the menu.

F. Next Button

Selects the next item in the menu.

Thermal and Fault Indicators

G.Clip Indicator

Red LED, one per channel, illuminates when the channel’s output signal reaches the onset of audible

clipping. The Clip Indicator also will illuminate during Thermal Level Control (TLC) limiting.

H.Thermal Indicator

Red LED, one per channel, illuminates when the channel has shut down due to thermal stress or overload.

I.Fault Indicator

Red LED, one per channel, flashes when the amplifier output channel has stopped operating. Usually this means that the amplifier must be serviced.

Signal Indicators

Three green LEDS per channel indicate the amplifier’s input and output signal levels. From top to bottom the LEDs are:

J. –10 dB: amplifier output is 10 dB below clipping.

K. –20 dB: amplifier output is 20 dB below clipping.

L. Signal: input signal is above –40 dBu.

M. Ready Indicator

Green LED, one per channel, illuminates when the channel is initialized and ready to produce audio output. Indicator is off when the channel is set to standby mode via System Architect or the IQ system.

N.Power Indicator

Blue LED indicates amplifier has been turned on and AC power is available. The LED will flash when the AC line voltage is 15% above or below the nominal rated range.

O.Bridge Mode Indicator

Yellow LED illuminates when the amplifier is set to Bridge-Mono mode.

P.Data Indicator

Yellow LED indicates HiQnet or IQ data activity. Data indicator flashes only when the amplifier is polled for data, or is polled to see whether it is online.

Q.Power Switch

Push-on/push-off switch glows green when AC power is present at the power cord and the amplifier circuit breaker is in the “on” position.

A B

G I C D E

H

F

O

N P

K M Q J L

Figure 3.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators

page 14

Operation Manual

Crown Audio I-Tech User Manual

I-Tech Series Power Amplifiers

3 Operation

3.5 Back Panel Controls, Indicators and Connectors

A. Fans

Provide front-to-back forced airflow for cooling.

ANALOG INPUTS SECTION

B. Balanced Analog XLR Inputs

A 3-pin female XLR connector for each channel.

C. Balanced Analog XLR Loop-Through Outputs

Two 3-pin male XLR output connectors are provided (one per channel). The signal at these connectors is paralled with the input signal for feeding the input signal to other amplifiers.

OUTPUTS SECTION

D. 4-Pole Speakon Output Connectors

Two high-current, 50A Neutrik® Speakon NL4MLP (mates with NL4FC and NL4), one per channel. Class 2 output wiring required.

These two connectors accept 2-pole or 4-pole Speakon connectors. See Figures 2.5 through 2.10 and Tables 1, 2 and 3 for connector wiring. The top Speakon connector is wired for both channels so it can be used for bridge-mono wiring or for stereo wiring of two speakers to a single Speakon connector.

E. Binding Post Output Jacks

One pair per channel of high-current, 60A color-coded binding posts. Accepts banana plugs, wire or spade lugs.

F. Power Cord Connector

Standard 20 amp IEC inlet. Voltage range is indicated above IEC inlet.

G. Reset Switch/Circuit Breaker

If the current draw of the amplifier exceeds safe limits, this breaker automatically disconnects the power supply from the AC mains. The switch resets the circuit breaker.

DIGITAL INPUTS SECTION

H. AES/EBU Digital Input

This 3-pin female XLR connector accepts a digital signal in the AES/EBU format.

I. AES/EBU Digital Loop-through Output

Male XLR active/re-clocked AES/EBU digital loop-through. The signal at this connector duplicates the digital input signal for feeding the input signal to other amplifiers.

It is not recommended to loop through more than four amplifiers. If larger distribution of AES is needed, the use of an AES distribution amplifier is recommended.

NETWORKING SECTION

J. Preset Indicator

Yellow LED flashes to signal the number of the current preset if active.

K. Data Indicator

Yellow LED indicates HiQnet or IQ data activity. Data indicator flashes only when the amplifier is polled for data, or is polled to see whether it is online.

L. Network Connector

This Ethernet connector accepts an RJ-45 connector for networking. Built into the connector is a yellow LINK ACT indicator that shows network activity, and a green 100Mb indicator that shows a 100Mb network connection.

A B C D E A

CERTIFIED ONLY AT 120 V IN CANADA

F G H I J K L

Figure 3.2 Back Panel Controls and Connectors

Operation Manual

page 15

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