Congratulations and thank you for choosing this Clear-Com product.
The KB-211 and KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker Stations are powerful,
user-friendly units that can serve as versatile intercom stations.
Please read this manual completely to better understand the functions of
these products. For questions not addressed in this manual, contact the
dealer or Clear-Com directly. Clear-Com applications support and service
people are ready to help.
Description
The Clear-Com PL-Pro™ KB-211 is a two-channel speaker station designed
for use in theatres, live performances, industrial environments, and small
television facilities. It features speech intelligibility, even in high noise levels,
and can be customized through its programmable options.
In addition, the Clear-Com PL-Pro
optional Clear-Com gooseneck panel microphone and a close-in, voiceoperated circuit (VOX). This circuit allows automatic, alternate dipping of the
panel microphone and the speaker in response to conversation.
™
KB-211GM also contains a jack for an
Selectable, two-channel talking and/or listening allows the operator to
communicate on either of the intercom channels. The dual-action talk button
operates in electronic momentary or latching mode. Monitoring can be done
through the headset, the integral speaker, or both simultaneously . The KB-211
offers both visual and audible call signaling to attract the attention of
operators. The Remote Mic Kill (RMK) feature on main stations will turn off
any open microphones on the KB-211.
A balanced program input allows the monitoring of external audio using the
headset or speaker. This program input can also be used as a paging
function.
The KB-211 speaker station accepts dynamic headsets, such as the ClearCom PL-Pro
Microphone. A sidetone control allows the operator to vary the level of his
voice heard through the headset and speaker.
The integral speaker can be turned on or off by a convenient front-panel
switch. An automatic speaker dipping circuit will lower the level of the speaker
whenever the talk button is activated. The KB-211GM’s close-in VOX dips the
speaker or gooseneck microphone automatically as the station is used. These
features help minimize acoustical feedback.
The KB-211 receives 30-VDC power from the Clear-Com intercom line. The
unit mounts either in a standard four-gang electrical outlet box or in an
optional Clear-Com V-Box. The extra-thick front panel and compact, surfacemount circuitry results in a reduced size and lighter weight package that
maintains Clear-Com ruggedness. The two intercom channels connect to a
™
Series HS-6 Telephone Handset or PT-4 Push-to-Talk Hand
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
plug-on screw terminal strip. Male and female three-pin XLR connectors are
provided on the V-Box for an in-line connection to one of the intercom
channels.
The optional EB-TW daughter board module can be installed to provide an
interface to two intercom channels on a single microphone cable. Also, the
EB-4W 4-Wire daughter board module is available to allow long-distance
connections using separate pairs of wires for send audio and receive audio.
The EB-4W 4-Wire option supports two-channel operation.
The KB-211 and KB-211GM are compatible with all Clear-Com Party-Line
intercoms.
Quick Start
1.Unpack the unit and inspect it for any damage that may have
occurred during shipping.
2.Set the Option switches to the default (up) position.
3.Connect the intercom lines. If only one intercom line is to be
connected, set Option Switch 1 to the ON or CLOSED position.
4.Install the KB-211 into the four-gang outlet box or V-Box. (For
additional information, refer to the Clear-Com PL-Pro
Installation Manual.)
5.Set Listen Levels and Sidetones. (Refer to“5—Sidetone Control”
on page 4.)
™
System
Operation
Front Panel
6.The speaker station should now be operating properly.
7.Read the rest of this manual for further information.
Normal operation of the KB-21 1 Speaker Station only requires the front-panel
controls. The controls located elsewhere on the unit are intended to be setand-forget in nature. For intercom operation, set the Listen level control to the
desired level and press the Talk button when talking. If a headset or handset
is used, set the Sidetone control for each channel for the desired amount of
sidetone in the earphone. If the PT-4 hand-held, push-to-talk microphone is
used, or if the panel microphone is used on the KB-211GM, set the sidetone
controls for minimum feed-through to the speaker to prevent acoustic
feedback.
The controls, indicators, and connectors on the KB-211 and KB-211GM front
panels are shown on Figure 1 on page 3 and are described by the following
text.
The Talk button activates the microphone feed to the selected intercom
channel. The Talk button has a dual action (momentary or latching) depending
upon how the button is pressed. If desired, the latching function can be
defeated using an internal switch. The following describes the various
functions of this button.
•Momentary—Press and hold the Talk button while speaking. Release it
when finished.
•Latching—Press and release the button quickly to latch the Talk
function. Press and release the button again to turn off the Talk
function.
•Talk Indication—The associated Talk lamp will illuminate green when
the Talk function is activated.
•VOX indication—On the KB-211GM, when the VOX feature is enabled,
the Talk lamp will illuminate green when the Talk function is activated,
but will turn red when the panel microphone is in use. This
automatically dips the speaker volume.
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
•Speaker Dip—If the front-panel speaker is turned on and the VOX
feature is not used, pressing the Talk button will reduce the speaker
output level to avoid feedback.
2—Call Button and Lamp
Pressing the Call button will send a call signal on the selected channel. All the
call lights on that channel will then flash. Call signals can also be sent while
talking if required. The Call lamp will light while the Call button is pressed, or
whenever a call signal is present on the selected cha nne l. An internal option
jumper can be set to allow the Call lamp to light when a call signal is present
on either channel.
3—Tone Alert
An audible tone alert can sound when a call signal is received on the selected
channel or either channel. This can be useful when the operator’s attention
has been drawn away from the KB-211 indicator panel. The audible tone alert
level can be adjusted or turned off by an internal control. The Tone Alert will
not sound if a call signal is originated at the KB-211 station or if the Speaker
ON/OFF Switch is turned off. The Tone Alert plays through both the speaker
and headset if the Speaker ON/OFF Switch is turned on.
4—Intercom Level Control
Turn this control to set the listen level required on the speaker or headset.
This control does not affect the Tone Alert level or the Program Input level.
5—Sidetone Control
Sidetone is the level of the operator’s voice that is heard while talking on the
intercom. Setting a comfortable level of sidetone will ensure that the intercom
line sounds alive and also helps modul ate the oper at or’s voice relative to
other voices on the line.
Typically , different Sidetone settings are needed depending upon whether the
speaker is used. Use one of the following procedures to correctly set the
Sidetone level control.
Sidetone Adjustment Procedure for Headset
Follow these steps to adjust a headset’s sidetone level.
1.Set the Intercom Level control to a comfortable level by having
someone talk to the operator from another station.
2.Press the Talk button and speak into the microphone while
turning the Sidetone control slowly back and forth until the voice
reaches a comfortable level in the headset.
Follow these steps to adjust the sidetone for gooseneck microphones on the
KB-211GM or PT-4 hand-held, push-to-talk microphone with the Speaker
turned on.
1.Set the VOX control fully counterclockwise to disable this feature.
(KB-211GM only)
2.Set the Intercom Level control to a comfortable level.
3.Press the Talk button and speak into the microphone while
turning the Sidetone control slowly back and forth. There should
be a point where the operator’s voice (and any accompanying
acoustic feedback) disappears. This is the null point.
4.Readjust the VOX control. (Refer to “12—VOX Control (KB211GM only)” on page 6.)
6—Program Level Control
Adjust the Program Level control to set the program audio level heard in the
headset or panel speaker.
Note:
Forcing the trimpots past their stop points will damage them.
7—Speaker ON/OFF Switch
The Speaker ON/OFF Switch turns the front-panel speaker on or off. This
switch also controls whether the Tone Alert is heard through the speaker. The
speaker volume will automatically dip when the talk function is set, unless the
VOX function is enabled.
8—Mic Select Switch (KB-211GM only)
The Mic Select switch selects whether the panel microphone or the headset
microphone is active. When the VOX feature is enabled, it is only operational
when the panel microphone is active.
9—Channel Switch
This switch selects the intercom channel (A or B) on which the speaker station
is active.
10—Headset Connector
The headset connector is located on the front panel. All Clear-Com headsets
are recommended for use with the KB-211. The Clear-Com PT-4 Push-to-Talk
Microphone or the HS-6 Telephone Handset will also plug into the headset
connector. The following is a description of the characteristics of a suitable
headset:
•Mic Type—Dynamic; 150 to 400 ohms impedance; -55 dB output level
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
•Pin 4—headphone hot.
The microphone and headphone wiring in the headset cord must be
individually shielded.
Note:
Do not connect Pins 1 and 3 together. Headset extension cords or
headset ”Y” cables are not recommended because they may increase
crosstalk between channe ls .
11—Panel Mic Connector (KB-211GM only)
Clear-Com recommends the GM-9 (9 in. long) and GM-18 (18 in. long) plug-in
panel microphones be used with the KB-211GM. Both are the electret type.
The 1/4-in. phone jack on the microphone mates with the Panel Mic
receptacle on the KB-211GM’s front panel.
To install a GM-9 or GM-18 microphone:
1.Remove the plastic plug from the jack, if present.
2.If a set screw is present in the microphone-mounting flange,
check and unscrew it to make sure it is clear of the threads in the
bushing.
3.Screw the microphone into the bushing and tighten.
4.Optional: Replace the set screw supplied with the gooseneck
microphone on top of the microphone-mounting flange and turn it
clockwise to lock the microphone in place.
12—VOX Control (KB-211GM only)
When the panel microphone is selected on the KB-211GM, the VOX control
should be adjusted for proper operation. This control is located to the right of
the panel microphone connector and is recessed slightly into the front panel.
Use a narrow, flat-blade screwdriver such as a "greenie" or "tweaker" for this
adjustment. When the adjustment is correctly set, the Talk lamp will be red
when speaking into the panel microphone and will be green when hearing
audio from the speaker. Turning the control clockwise makes the KB-211GM
more sensitive. The VOX feature can be disabled by turning the VOX control
fully counterclockwise.
Internal Adjustments and Connections
The controls and connectors inside the KB-211 are shown in the following
figure and described by the following text. The controls can be accessed
without completely removing the panel from its wall box or V-Box enclosure
by removing the top two screws and loosening the bottom two screws a few
turns. The panel can then be leaned out from the wall to make the controls
accessible as shown in the lower view of Figure 2 on page 7.
This control adjusts the volume of the Call Alert Tone sound. This is normally
adjusted when the system is set up and shouldn’t need to be adjusted during
normal operation. This feature can be disabled by turning the control fully
counterclockwise.
14—Option Switches
Three Option switches are provided. They should be configured when the
system is set up and shouldn’t be changed in normal operation.
Note:
The ON position of each switch is toward the circuit board and the OFF
position is toward the front panel. The default position of the switches is in the
OFF position. The function of each switch is as follows:
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
1—Single Channel
In some installations, the KB-211 is intended to be used only with one
intercom channel. Setting the Single Channel switch to the ON position will
connect the KB-211 to the one intercom channel regardless of the position of
the front-panel Channel selector.
Note:
In two-channel installations, this switch must be set to the OFF position.
2—Long Line
If a long cable run is unavoidable and approaches 700 ft. or more, set the
Long Line option switch to the ON position. The ability to set an effective
sidetone depends upon properly setting this switch.
3—Latch Diable
Setting the Latch Disable switch to the ON position will disable the latching
function of the Talk button. In this mode, the Talk button must be held in
continuously while the operator is talking.
15—Call Signal Jumper
In some installations it is important to receive a call signal from either channel,
regardless of the setting of the Channel selector. The plug-on jumper P1
makes the Call lamp respond to either the selected channel or to both
channels, depending upon its orientation. By default, the jumper is set to the
selected channel position. When the TW or 4-Wire Option modules are
installed, this jumper is not used. In TW operation, the call signal always
originates on channel A. In 4-Wire operation, the call signal is not used.
16—Intercom Line Connection
The KB-211 contains a five-terminal, plug-on connector for intercom line
connection. This connector is intended to be unplugged from the circuit board
when connecting the intercom line, and then plugged back on when the wiring
is completed. The connections for each pin are visible on the circuit board
when the connector is unplugged. The pinout of this connector is as follows:
A three-terminal, plug-on connector provides the program input to the station.
Program is fed to the headset and speaker. The level to the speaker or
headset is controlled by the Program Level control. The Program Input
accepts a balanced or unbalanced line-level audio signal from -20 dBv to +10
dBv. If this input is connected to the stage announce (SA) output of a Main
Station it can be used as a paging input. Since the level of this input is
independently adjustable from the intercom audio volume, it can be used to
override the intercom audio. The pinout of this connector is as follows:
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
Program Input
Cable Wiring:
Pin 1
KB-211 Program
Input Connector
FIGURE 5: Program-Input Cable Wiring
2
3
1
XLR
Connector
18—Option Board Jumpers
The three jumper plugs P1, P2, and P3 must be installed when optional
modules are not used. When the optional EB-4W or EB-TW modules are
used, both P1 and P3 must be removed. In the KB-211GM, P2 is replaced by
the VOX module. Save these jumper plugs for possible future use.
Note:
The KB-211 will not operate without either these jumper plugs or the
The KB-211 has an internal failure.
Solution: Unit requires servicing.
Speaker does not operate, but the Talk Light comes on when Talk
•
button is pressed
Scenario 1
The Speaker switch is turned off, the volume knob is turned all the way down,
or the channel switch is set to the unused channel.
Solution: Adjust controls appropriately.
Scenario 2
The speaker plug or wiring has come loose.
Solution 2: Make sure speaker is connected internally.
Scenario 3
Plug P3 is missing on circuit board.
Solution: Plug P3 must be installed in J3 jack if the EB-TW or EB-4W options
are not used.
•Hum or buzz in the system.
.
Scenario 1
Inductive pickup caused by close proximity of this speaker station or
connected stations to power lines or transformers.
Solution: Relocate the offending unit or wiring. If the cable run is exceptionally
long, consider adding and using the EB-4W 4-Wire Option Module. (Requires
an additional 4-wire interface at the opposite end of the “long run.”)
•System feedback (Acoustical).
Scenario 1
Intercom Level control at this station or another station is set too high.
Solution: Adjust.
Scenario 2
The Sidetone control at this station or another station is not correctly adjusted.
Solution: Adjust. Refer to “5—Sidetone Control” on page 4.
Scenario 3
Channel not terminated.
Solution: Set the Main Station or Power Supply termination switch for that
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
Solution: If only one intercom line is connected, set Option Switch 1 to the ON
or CLOSED position to link both channel switch positions to the same
intercom line.
Scenario 5
A headset extension cord was used.
Solution: Headset extension cords are not recommended.
•VOX problems (KB-211GM only)
Scenario 1
VOX stays tripped (red light on) or the sensitivity is set too high.
Solution: Turn VOX sensitivity control in a counter-clockwise direction.
Scenario 2
VOX will not trip with voice (green light on) or the sensitivity is set too low.
Solution: Turn VOX sensitivity control in a clockwise direction.
Note:
VOX is intended for close-in operation.
•Excessive crosstalk
Scenario 1
High DC resistance has a ground return.
Solution: Use heavier cable to add additional conductor(s) to the ground
return. If the cable run is exceptionally long, consider adding and using the
EB-4W 4-Wire Option Module.
Scenario 2
The multi-channel cable pairs are not individually shielded.
Solution: Replace the cable with individually shielded pairs.
Scenario 3
Headset cables are not wired or shielded properly.
Solution: Correct the wiring and use headsets with properly shielded wiring
(see “10—Headset Connector” on page 5).
•Program signal sounds distorted.
Scenario 1
The Program Level control is set too high.
Solution: Turn the Program Level control counter-clockwise.
Scenario 2
Overload of Program Input circuit.
Solution: Reduce the gain of the program signal at the source, such as an
Excessive DC loading of intercom line.
Solution: Remove any audio transformers or other equipment that may be
connected across the intercom line. If equipment other than Clear-Com
intercom equipment must be connected to the intercom line, please contact
Clear-Com application or service personnel for information or
recommendations.
Scenario 2
Far too many terminations on the intercom line.
Solution: Check all main stations and power supplies to make sure each
intercom channel is terminated at only one point.
Scenario 3
Plug P1 is missing on circuit board.
Solution: Plug P1 must be installed in the J1 jack if the EB-4W or EB-TW
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
SwitchDPDT P.B. MINIATURE W/LONG PLUNGER510107S4 S5
SwitchDPDT ROCKER PC MOUNT W/BRACKET510111S2
SwitchDIP SWITCH PIANO 3 POS510114S3
SwitchSPDT ROCKER, PC MNT W/BR AC K ET510125S1
Wire4 CONNDUCTOR FLAT CABLE 770017W1
Input Type:Dynamic
Impedance:1k ohm
Input Level:-55 dBV nominal; -10 dBV max.
Gain from headset
mic to intercom line:+41 dB
Panel Microphone Pre-Amp (KB-211GM only)
Input Type:Electret
Input Level:-45 dBV nominal
Gain from panel
mic to intercom line: +31 dB VOX not tripped/+41 dB VOX tripped
Pre-Amp Response Curve
Frequency Response:250 Hz to 12 kHz, contoured for intelligibility
Limiter Range 20 dB
Headphone Amplifier
Load Impedance Range:50 ohm to 2k ohm
Output Level:at least +20 dBV across 600 ohm
Distortion:< 0.5% THD at 1 kHz
Frequency Response:200 Hz to 15 kHz, ±3 dB
Gain from intercom line:+37 dB
Power Output:110 dB SPL
Speaker Amplifier
Speaker Type:2.5 in. round, 16 ohm
Power Output:2 W into 16 ohms
Frequency Response:200 Hz to 15 kHz, ±3 dB
Signal-to-Noise:75 dB
Gain from intercom line:+37 dB
Distortion:< 0.5% THD at 1 kHz
Speaker Level:98 dB SPL at 3 ft.
Program Amplifier
(Transformerless, balanced differential input)
Input Level:-20 dBV
Input Impedance:> 100k ohm
Frequency Response:150 Hz to 15 kHz, ± 3 dB
8.25 in. W x 4.5 in. H x 1.75 in. D (210 mm x 114 mm x 44 mm)
Weight
1.22 lbs. (0.56 kg)
Notice About Specifications
While Clear-Com makes every attempt to maintain the accuracy of the information
contained in its product manuals, that information is subject to change without notice.
Performance specifications included in this manual are design-center specifications and
are included for customer guidance and to facilitate system installation. Actual operating
performance may vary.
KB-211/KB-211GM Manual P/N 810253
(C) 1999 Clear-Com Systems
All Rights Reserved
The Clear-Com warranty does not cover any defect, malfunction, or failure
caused beyond the control of Clear-Com, including unreasonable or negligent
operation, abuse, accident, failure to follow instructions in the manual,
defective or improper associated equipment, attempts at modification and
repair not authorized by Clear-Com, and shipping damage. Products with
their serial numbers removed or defaced are not covered by this warranty.
This warranty is the sole and exclusive express warranty given with respect to
Clear-Com products. It is the responsibility of the user to determine before
purchase that this product is suitable for the user's intended purpose.
Any and all implied warranties, including the implied warranty of
merchantability are limited to the duration of this express limited warranty.
Neither Clear-Com nor the dealer who sells Clear-Com products is liable for
incidental or consequential damages of any kind.
For your own records fill in the information below:
Model NoSerial No.
Date Purchased
Purchased from (dealer)
Address
CityStateZIP
Factory Service
All equipment returned for repair must be accompanied by documentation
stating the return address, telephone number, date of purchase, and a
description of the problem.
Note:
Do not return any equipment to the factory without first obtaining a
Return Authorization Number.
Send equipment to be repaired to:
Customer Service Department
Clear-Com Intercom Systems
4065 Hollis Street
Emeryville, CA 94608-3505
Telephone: (510) 496-6666
Fax: (510) 496-6601
Warranty Repairs
If in warranty, no charge will be made for the repairs. Equipment being
returned for warranty repair must be sent prepaid and will be returned
prepaid.
KB-211/KB-211GM Two-Channel Speaker StationsClear-Com Intercom Systems
Non-Warranty Repair
Equipment that is not under warranty must be sent prepaid to Clear-Com. If
requested, an estimate of repair costs will be issued prior to service. Once
repair is approved and repair of equipment is completed, the equipment will
be shipped freight collect from the factory.