Boston Acoustics LCAi220 User Manual
LCAi220
Local Control Amplifier
LCAi220 Important Safety Instructions
This symbol found on the apparatus indicates hazards arising from
dangerous voltages.
This symbol found on the apparatus indicates the user should read all
safety statements found in the user manual.
WWAARRNNIINNGG!!
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
product to rain or moisture.
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 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 grounding-type 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 are 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. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms
or when unused for long periods of time.
12. 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
, or has been dr
mally
nor
13. The power plug at the wall must remain easily
accessible after installation to be able to
disconnect power fr
opped.
om the apparatus.
14. Maintain a minimum safe distance of 2 inches
(50mm) around the front of the apparatus for
sufficient ventilation. The ventilation should
not be impeded by placing around the
apparatus items such as newspapers,
tablecloths, curtains, etc.
15. The apparatus shall not be exposed to
dripping or splashing. No objects filled with
liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the
apparatus.
16. The apparatus is suitable for moderate
climates.
Notice on EMI:
American Users:
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 instructions, 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.
Canadian Users:
This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appar
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
eil numérique de la classe B est
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Local Control amplifier
LCAi220
Thank you
Thank you for selecting a Boston Acoustics LCAi220 Local Control amplifier. Your LCAi220 has
been designed to deliver years of music, enjoyment, and satisfaction. Please keep your manual
in a safe place in case you need to refer to it at a later date. Our Installation Considerations are
a guide for those with and without experience installing a local control amplifier. If at any point
you have questions regarding the connection and installation of this device please contact
technical support at support@bostona.com or 978.538.5000.
Contents
Thank You ........................................................................................................2
Specifications...................................................................................................2
Introduction .....................................................................................................3
The Technology Inside.................................................................................... 3
Installation Considerations..............................................................................4
System Diagrams.............................................................................................7
Installation Instructions .................................................................................10
Connection Instructions ................................................................................12
Set Up Instructions........................................................................................13
TroubleShooting Guide .................................................................................15
Contact Information ......................................................................................16
Specifications
LCAi220
Power 10w x 2 @8Ω
Signal to Noise Ratio >95dB
THD at Rated Power 0.04%
Trigger Voltage - Input 3-30 VAC / DC
Trigger Voltage - Output 12 VDC / 200mA
Power Input - LCAi220
Power Input - Power Supply 100 - 240 V~, 50 - 60Hz, 1.8A
Input Sensitivity 500mV @ full output
Dimensions - inside Junction Box 5
(H x W x D) (not including connections) 131 x 131 x 54mm
12 - 16 VDC, 2.5A
1
⁄8 x 51⁄8 x 21⁄8"
2
/ 20w x 2 @4Ω
Introduction
LCAi220
The LCAi220 is an in-wall local zone amplifier that switches between a central audio source
(whole house audio) and a local source (TV, CD player, etc.). In the standby mode, the local
speakers are amplified by a centrally located distribution amplifier. When an input signal is
detected from either the local high level, low level, or the 12v trigger/video in inputs, the
LCAi220 switches on and the speakers switch over to the LCAi220’s high quality amplifier.
The LCAi220 provides a simple, easy to use way to have multi-source audio in any room. Its
compact, in-wall design allows the LCAi220 to fit easily behind a flat panel TV. The LCAi220
mounts in a two-gang wall box with all speaker connections located behind the unit and the
local source inputs and controls located on the front. The end result is an unrivaled
combination of installation ease and performance, and with its auto source switching makes
the LCAi220 literally invisible to the end user.
The Technology Inside
Amplifier
The amplifier used in the Boston Acoustics LCAi220 is a high performance class A/B amplifier
delivering sound quality equivalent to the finest multi-room/multi zone amplifiers or receivers.
Low V
The LCAi220 features two separate power inputs, one on the front for use with the supplied
power supply and a second located on the rear panel for a centrally mounted power supply.
Since the LCAi220 can operate with 12vdc to 16vdc power, it can be used on the same power
source as many other devices used in home audio installations today allowing an installer to
mount a central power supply and route power to many separate locations.
oltage Power Requirements:
Local Source High and Low Level Inputs:
The LCAi220 features both high (speaker level) and low level (RCA) inputs allowing for
connection to almost any local audio source.
Adjustable Input Level:
The LCAi has a fully adjustable gain to match the output of the LCAi220 to the central music
source.
Highpass Filter:
The LCAi220 features an adjustable highpass filter for the local speakers. Selectable between
Flat (no crossover engaged), 30Hz @ 12dB, and 100Hz @ 12dB. This is especially useful if using
the LCAi220 with small speakers or with a subwoofer. The highpass is only active when used
with the local zone.
Subwoofer Line Output:
The LCAi220 features a dedicated low-level subwoofer output. The subwoofer output is derived
from both the local source being amplified by the LCAi220 and the whole house system. The
signal from the subwoofer output is a mono signal lowpassed at 85Hz @ 12dB per octave.
Fault Detection / Pr
The LCAi220 features active circuitry to protect itself against a potentially hazardous situation.
If a fault state is detected, the LCAi220 will go into protection mode and the fault LED will
illuminate.
otection:
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LCAi220 Benefits
• Level Adjust to match the output of the LCAi220 to the central distribution
audio amplifier
• Signal Sensing (high and low level) and Input trigger for switching to local
source
• Output trigger for triggering on a connected component (Subwoofer, Etc.)
• Great sounding, a perfect system match with Boston Acoustics
speakers
• Versatility to connect to other manufacturers speakers
• RCA and High Level Inputs for simple connection to almost any audio source
• Installs neatly into a common low-voltage dual junction box; Carlon B432A or
5
equivalent; (32 cu. in.) (2
⁄8" deep x 4" wide x 4" high)
• Current sensing for simple switching between central and local audio
• Easy to install with minimal tools required for hook-up
• Automatic DC/overload/overdrive protection
Installation Considerations
Choosing Installation / Mounting locations
Convenience, décor, safety requirements, installation ease, and performance are all factors
when considering location choices. Choose locations that work best for the room and its use.
Examples of convenient locations include; behind a wall mounted TV, lower section of a wall,
and near other installed controls. Installation of the audio output wiring should be in accordance with Article 640 of the National Electrical Code
nances. Do not install the LCAi220 near any electrical device such as a light switch, dimmer or
other 110 Volt product because of the possibility of induced electrical noise. Mount each
device separately using the prescribed electrical box and other low voltage mounting hardware. Check local code requirements regarding the use of such devices before selecting the
mounting hardware. If you are not sure of the requirements for your area, check with the local
wiring inspector, or with an electrician or custom A/V integrator. Electricians and Custom A/V
integrators are also good choices for installing such devices. If at any time you feel unsure
about wiring, connecting or choosing locations consult with a professional.
®
(NEC®) and with local codes and ordi-
Speaker Wiring Requirements
For most applications, it is recommended that you use a minimum of a 16 AWG (American
Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire. Never use a wire gauge smaller than 18 AWG. The higher
the gauge number the thinner the wire is. Heavier wire should be used for longer cable runs.
Wiring should be done in accordance with Article 640 of the National Electrical Code
and with local codes and ordinances. Class 2 cable (designated CL2, CL2P, or CL2R) is typically
appropriate for use in residential construction. This is a plastic jacketed multi-wire cable. Class
3 cable and other suitable substitute cables may also be used. Table 725.61 of the 2005 NEC
specifies suitable cable substitutions. The use of unjacketed single wires is not permitted. For
commercial or multi-unit residences, other wiring methods and cable types may be required.
If you ar
with an electrician or custom A/V integrator. You will require 4 conductors from the amplifier
location to the LCAi220 input, using one 4-conductor or two 2-conductor cables; and 2
conductor cables fr
and Custom A/V integrators are good choices for installing such devices. If at any time you feel
unsure about wiring, connecting or choosing locations consult with a professional.
e not sure of the requirements for your area, check with the local wiring inspector, or
om the LCAi220 outputs to each speaker location in the r
oom. Electricians
®
(NEC®)
4
Powering the LCAi220
A 16VDC power supply is included for powering the the LCAi220. There are two separate
connection points for powering the LCAi220; a front mounted connection for local powering of
the LCAi220 and a rear mounted connection for central powering of the LCAi220. It is only
necessary that you connect power to one of the connections.
Front Connection
When using the front mounted input, connect the plug from the power supply to the input on
the LCAi220. The power supply plugs into a standard 110VAC outlet.
Rear Connection
When using the rear connection, the power supply is located with the central audio system and
power wire is run from that location to the LCAi220. This configuration will require the use of
the included LCApi power interface. The LCApi allows connection of power wire to the
LCAi220’s included power supply.
Rear Power Wiring Requirements
You will require a 2 conductor cable from the power supply location to the LCAi220 input. The
cable should be at least 18 gauge or heavier and of Class 2 construction or an acceptable
substitute. The installation methods are identical to those for installing the loudspeaker wiring,
although there is no need to increase the wire size beyond 16 gauge. Again, Electricians,
Custom A/V Integrators, and Electrical Inspectors are great resources regarding this subject.
They are also great at installing such devices. If at any time you feel uncomfortable in wiring,
connecting or choosing product locations consult with a professional.
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