Page 1
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.
5451 North Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667
www.carsonsirens.com
SA-400-11
HORN ONLY
SIREN AMPLIFIER
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.
RADIO
HORN
MAN
WAIL
Y
ELP
PHASER
SIREN
PA
V
OL
SA-400
O
F
F
O
N
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
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Page 2 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL DESCRIPTION .................................................................................... 3
SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................................. 3
INSTALLATION ..................................................................................................... 4
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................................................................. 4
UNPACKING..................................................................................................... 4
OPTION SWITCHES ........................................................................................ 5
MOUNTING....................................................................................................... 6
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS ........................................................................6
OPERATION.......................................................................................................... 8
GENERAL .........................................................................................................8
SELECTOR SWITCH........................................................................................ 8
MICROPHONE ................................................................................................. 8
PA VOL ............................................................................................................. 8
SIREN SWITCH ................................................................................................9
AUXILIARY INPUT............................................................................................ 9
RADIO VOLUME............................................................................................... 9
SERVICE ............................................................................................................. 10
PROBLEMS .................................................................................................... 10
PARTS and ACCESSORIES .......................................................................... 11
RETURN ......................................................................................................... 12
WARRANTY.................................................................................................... 12
NOTICE
Due to continuous product improvements, we must reserve the right to change any specifications and information,
contained in this manual at any time without notice.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this manual, including, but not
limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual.
See www.carsonsirens.com for latest information.
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SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 3 of 12
CP4931B 12/14/09
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SA-400 Siren Amplifier is a premium unit designed for single or dual 100W speaker use. A 6position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating modes for Horn and Radio. A Siren
push-button switch provides immediate Horn tone override in all modes except Radio. An independent rocker switch controls power. A permanently mounted noise canceling PA microphone
with front panel volume control overrides all modes except Radio. An internal control is used to
adjust Radio volume. An auxiliary input is provided for connection to a positive or negative horn
ring circuit or switch, performing the same function as the Siren push-button. Internal DIP
switches allow Auxiliary Input Polarity selection and Horn disable. The front panel is backlighted
with LED's for night visibility. This durable unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse
polarity protection systems for maximum service life over a wide temperature range.
SPECIFICATIONS
Input Voltage 9 - 16 VDC (negative ground)
Input Current 8 AMPS (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
16 AMPS (@14 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Standby Current Less than 150 mA
Audio Frequency 200Hz - 10 kHz + 3db
Audio Distortion Less than 3% (@1 kHz - single 100W speaker)
Audio Output 40 watts (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
Audio Input 0.75V RMS MIN. 400 ohms + 10%
Output Power 105 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - single 100W speaker)
180 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Siren Frequency Horn = 435 & 585 Hz
Tones / Cycle Rates Horn
109 CPS
High Voltage Protection 16 - 18 VDC will cause siren output to cease, resume at normal
Short Circuit Current 50 AMPS (supply circuit must be capable of supplying this for 1 second)
Operating Temperature -15° F to +140°F
Controls 6-position rotary mode switch (Radio, Manual Horn, Manual Horn, Horn Cycle 1,
Horn Cycle 2, and Horn Cycle 3)
Momentary push-button Siren switch.
Front panel mounted PA volume control, internal Radio adjust
Auxiliary input for positive or negative connection.
Internal DIP switch option selector.
Connections (9-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Auxiliary
Size 6-1/8" Wide, 5-3/8" Deep, 2-1/2" High
Weight 5-1/2 LBS.
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Page 4 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
INSTALLATION
Proper installation of the unit is essential for years of safe, reliable operation. Please read all
instruction before installing the unit. Failure to follow these instructions can cause serious damage to the unit or vehicle and may void warranties.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For the safety of the installer, vehicle operator, passengers and the community please observe
the following safety precautions. Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may
result in property damage, injury or death.
Qualifications - The installer must have a firm knowledge of basic electricity, vehicle electrical
systems and emergency equipment.
Mounting - Mount the unit for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount in air bag
deployment area. Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle. To prevent internal damage
mounting bolts must not enter case more than 1/4".
Wiring - Use wiring capable of handling the current required. Make sure all connections are tight.
Route wiring to prevent wear, overheating and interference with air bag deployment. Install and
check all wiring before connection to vehicle battery.
Testing - Test all siren functions after installation to assure proper operation. Test vehicle operation to assure no damage to vehicle.
Keep These Instructions - Keep these instructions in the vehicle or other safe place for future
reference. Advise the vehicle operator of the location.
UNPACKING
Inspect contents for shipping damage. If found alert carrier immediately
.
Contact supplier immediately if any components are missing.
Contents of box should include the following items:
Qty Item
1 Amplifier Unit with attached Microphone (SA-400-11 14)
1 Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws (CP3633)
1 Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount (CP3571)
2 Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (CP3966)
1 Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT (CP2560)
1 Instruction Manual (CP4931 This Manual)
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
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SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 5 of 12
CP4931B 12/14/09
OPTION SWITCHES
An internal 8-position DIP switch on the circuit
board may be changed to select various options. The cover for the unit must be removed
to access the DIP switch.
Accessing Option Switches - The cover is
held in place by a snap-fastener on the back of
the unit. While holding the cover on the sides
press hard with your fingers on the back of the
unit. The chassis will slide out the front.
Adjusting Option Switches - the DIP Switch is located on
the internal PCB assembly board toward the right side of
the unit. Switch 1 is toward the back of the unit. Switch
‘ON’ position is toward the inside side of the unit.
SW-1 Not Used… Leave Off.
SW-2 Not Used… Leave Off.
SW-3 Horn Disable - Turn this switch ON to disable Horn tone.
SW-4 Not Used… Leave Off.
SW-5 Not Used… Leave Off.
NOTE: Earlier models with S/N lower than 04190000 have a 5 position DIP switch and only offer
the traditional auxiliary input.
Traditional Auxiliary Input - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is activated with
positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch is required for
proper operation. Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.
SW-6 SW-7 SW-8
Auxiliary Input Activation Polarity
ON OFF OFF
Positive and Negative Activation (Traditional Auxiliary)
OFF ON ON
Positive Only Activation (Factory Default)
OFF ON OFF
Negative Only Activation
OPTION SWITCHES
SIDE VIEW
COVER REMOVED
ON
87654321
Default Setting Shown
SW-7 and SW-8 ON
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Page 6 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
MOUNTING
The mounting bracket supplied can be installed above or below the unit. Choose a mounting
location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas. Inspect behind
mounting area for clearance. Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Consider wire
routing and access to connections, as well as microphone bracket placement. Install mounting
bracket to vehicle using 1/4" hardware (not supplied).
If mounting in a rack or console, make sure that mounting bolts do not enter case more than 1/4".
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Electrical connections to the unit are made using the wiring harness supplied. If the unit needs
service the connector can be easily removed without unwiring the harness.
The power supply for the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for
adequate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the
vehicle battery. A fuse on the rear of the unit protects from overload.
Disconnect vehicle battery before making any electrical connections.
Extend leads using adequately sized wiring and terminals or splices.
Wire Size and Termination - The diagram shows the minimum wire size used for each connection, along with recommended lead color. If the wire is longer than 10 ft. use the next larger wire
size. Use only high quality crimp connectors for installation on the vehicle.
Radio Input Connection (Optional) - Connect 1 lead to each terminal of the radio speaker or
output connector. The input is isolated and polarity is not important. May need to set RADIO
VOLUME ADJUST on side of unit.
Auxiliary Input Connection (Optional) - Used for Siren Control. Performs the same function as
Siren push-button. Typically connected to the horn ring circuit of the vehicle or other momentary
switch. See below for further details on activation polarity.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.
Traditional Auxiliary Input Activation - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is
activated with positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch
is required for proper operation.
Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
Polarity Selectable Auxiliary Input Activation - The auxiliary input may be activated with
positive (+VDC) OR negative (-VDC).
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
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SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 7 of 12
CP4931B 12/14/09
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS CONTINUED
Connect second speaker
for same phase (+ to +)
Wiring Harness
(CP2560)
+-#16 AWG BRN
(
2 LEADS
)
+
-
BAT
#14 AWG BLK Use both leads
Extend pair with #10 AWG
RADIO
100W
Speaker(s)
#18 AWG BLU
(2 LEADS)
Connect to
output jack, terminals
or speaker of radio
(AUX)
Auxiliary Input
#18 AWG WHT
Automotive Type
20 AMP Fuse
+
-
Location WHT
Location RED
(2 Leads)
Location BRN
(2 Leads)
Location BLU
(2 Leads)
Location BLK
(2 Leads)
Auxiliary Input is
Low input current
Less than 20mA
Extend with #22 AWG
#14 AWG RED Use both leads
Extend pair with #10 AWG
Polarized Activation
Auxiliary Input
Connection Examples
Activated with
+VDC OR -VDC
DIP SW-6 OFF
SW-7 ON
Horn
Circuit
Note:
Vehicle horn will also
sound with siren
To
AUX
Vehicle
Horn
Splice
Activation
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF
+VDC
or
-VDC
Momentary
SPST
S
witch
To
AUX
Activation
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF
HORN RLY
+VDC
or
-VDC
Added
SPDT
S
witch
To
AUX
Vehicle
Horn
+VDC
or
-VDC
Momentary
SPST
S
witch
To
AUX
Traditional Activation
Auxiliary Input
Connection Examples
Activated with
+VDC AND -VDC
DIP SW-6 ON
SW-7 and 8 OFF
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Page 8 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
OPERATION
GENERAL
Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones have been replaced with a cycling on/off Horn function.
Horn Cycling is quicker switching toward Phaser position.
SELECTOR SWITCH
The 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating mode of the siren.
Radio - Also known as Radio Repeat, this function amplifies a
radio speaker input for re-broadcast outside the vehicle. No
Horn or PA operation is available in this position.
The radio must be connected and RADIO VOLUME ADJUSTed
for this mode to function.
Horn - A standby mode that allows Horn Override.
Man - Also a standby mode that allows Horn Override.
Wail - Replaced with Horn Cycle 1 which is 3 seconds on and 5
seconds off.
Yelp - Replaced with Horn Cycle 2 which is 2 seconds on and 2
seconds off.
Phaser - Replaced with Horn Cycle 3 which is 1 second on and 1 second off.
MICROPHONE (PA Override)
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any
siren tone when the push-to-talk button on the side of the microphone is pressed.
PA VOL
This control adjusts the PA volume. With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume
to the maximum level with no feedback (squeal).
Rotary
Switch
Operating
Mode
Activate Siren push-button or Auxiliary Input
Radio Radio No Change
Horn Silent Horn
Man Silent Horn
Wail Horn Cyc 1 Horn
Yelp Horn Cyc 2 Horn
Phaser Horn Cyc 3 Horn
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
RADIO
HORN
MAN
WAIL
YELP
PHASER
PA
VOL
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SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 9 of 12
CP4931B 12/14/09
SIREN SWITCH
This momentary push-button switch provides Horn Override in all modes
except Radio.
AUXILIARY INPUT
During installation an auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device.
It provides the same operation as pressing the Siren push-button.
RADIO VOLUME
The radio repeat volume level is set using an adjustment inside the case
just behind the PA volume control. Press on the rear of the case to open
the unit Set the Selector Switch to the Radio position and turn on the
power. With the radio volume itself set to a normal level, set the siren
radio volume adjust control to the desired level. Turn off power and
press the unit back into the case.
SIREN
RADIO ADJUST
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Page 10 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
SERVICE
This unit is designed to provide years of reliable service under even the worst conditions. Many
times there may appear to be a problem with the unit when the true problem is in the speaker(s)
or improper installation. The following chart shows typical symptoms and possible causes.
A blown rear panel fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker
lead is shorted this fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and
replace the fuse. If the siren emits a sound (Horn Cycle 3) when in the Phaser position it is OK.
Check the speaker(s) or leads for possible shorting.
PROBLEMS
See www.carsonsirens.com for additional information.
or contact our Service Department at:
E-mail service@carsonsirens.com or Phone (888) 577-6877
Symptom Possible Cause Check
No power or siren
output
Power switch not turned on
Bad speaker(s)
Connector loose
Fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
Does backlighting come on?
Do you hear a "pop" when turned on?
With siren on, phaser selected, listen for faint Horn Cycle
3 tone in amplifier.
Is an external fuse or circuit breaker used?
Are the negative leads connected to a good ground?
No Horn - PA
works
High Voltage Protection
Mic button stuck
Horn disabled
Input voltage must be less than highest rated voltage.
Does mic button release properly?
Is Horn Disable option switch turned on?
No PA PA volume not set properly
Selector in Radio position
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?
PA is not available in the Radio position
Distorted siren
sound
Speaker assembly loose
Intermittent Aux Input connection
Low vehicle voltage
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Input voltage must be greater than lowest rated voltage.
Intermittent siren
tone (not Horn
Cycle x)
High Voltage Protection
Connector loose
Bad power connection
Mic button activation
Circuit breaker in supply connection
Is the vehicle voltage regulator working properly?
Is the connector tight on the back of the unit?
Is there a loose connection on a power lead?
Is something lying on the microphone?
Is a circuit breaker used with at least a 50A rating?
Horn function
stuck on
Siren switch stuck
Aux Input improperly connected
Does the Siren switch return fully when released?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Aux Input is activated with positive or negative.
No Radio Unit not connected to radio
Radio volume too low
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?
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SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 11 of 12
CP4931B 12/14/09
PARTS and ACCESSORIES
The following parts and accessories are available from Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.:
See www.carsonsirens.com for additional information.
or contact our Service Department at:
E-mail service@carsonsirens.com or Phone (888) 577-6877
Part Description
CP5018 Button, Switch Cap Red (for Siren pushbutton)
CP4732 Control, 1K Vertical Trimmer (Radio Volume)
CP3547 Control, 350 Ohm Mini-Pot (PA volume)
ES00026-03 Cover (not including chassis)
ATO/ATC 20A Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive
CP4852 Knob, Selector Switch
CP4853 Knob, PA Volume Control
CP4826 Label, SA-400-10 Front Panel
ED1680 Lead Asmb, Chassis Plug (internal)
CP4750 Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector
SR-15-1 Microphone Strain Relief
CP5014 Nut, 1/4-40 Dress (for Siren pushbutton)
CP4822 Switch, Momentary Push Button, Right Angle (Siren Pushbutton)
CP3962 Switch, Power Rocker
CP3548 Switch, Rotary 6-Pos. Selector
CP4119 Transistor, output (2 required)
Accessory Description * - standard accessory supplied with unit
CP4899 Bracket, Flush Mounting
CP3633 * Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws
CP3571 * Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount
CP3966 * Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (typically 2 ea required)
CP2560 * Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT
CP4931 * Manual, SA-400-11 Instruction
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Page 12 of 12 SA-400-11 Installation and Operating Instructions
12/14/09 CP4931B
LIMITED WARRANTY
Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc. warrants this new product to be free from defects
in material and workmanship, under normal use and service, for a period of five (5)
years from the date of delivery to the first user-purchaser.
During this warranty period the obligation of Carson Manufacturing is limited to repairing
or replacing, as Carson Manufacturing may elect, any part or parts of such product
which after examination by Carson Manufacturing is determined to be defective in material and/or workmanship.
This warranty does not cover labor charges for removal or re-installation of the product.
Fuses and lamps are not covered under this warranty.
This warranty does not extend to any unit that has been subjected to abuse, misuse,
improper installation or which has not been adequately maintained, nor to units which
have problems related to service or modification at any facility other than the manufacturer.
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL CARSON MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR ANY
INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY SUCH DEFECT
IN MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP.
RETURN
If you have any questions concerning this or any other Carson product,
please contact our Technical Service Department at (888) 577-6877.
Many issues can be handled over the phone. We can also be reached via
e-mail at service@carsonsirens.com
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical
Service Department to obtain a Returned Merchandise Authorization number (RMA#) before you ship the product to Carson. Please write the RMA#
clearly on the package near the mailing label. Be sure to provide a return
address, contact and phone number, along with a brief description of the
problem.
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