Crest audio CK MODULE OWNERS MANUAL

Power
Processing

MODULE OWNERS MANUAL

Modules

About Power Processing Modules

The rear panel of the CK family Power Processing amplifiers provides three bays (Input, Network
and Power/Output) configured to accept interchangeable plug-in modules. Your amplifier may have
been factory-configured with some of the optional modules. The back page of this manual contains
an overview chart of all currently available Power Processing modules.

“CC-” Modules fit into the Power/Output or Input module bays. These basic analog modules are
non-programmable and non-NexSys®compatible; only the Sequential Turn-On/Off (STO) function
can be controlled (through hardwiring).

“NC-” Modules can be controlled, programmed and/or monitored via the hand-held N-Coder, N­Coder/PC software or over the NexSys netw ork. Except for the STO feature, NC Modules are “tam­per-proof” in that there are no user-accessible setup controls.

Programming NC Input Processing Modules

NC Input Processing modules can be programmed in OR out of the amplifier.

Programming with the N-Coder

Connected to an Input Processing module’s data port via the supplied RJ14-RJ14 cable, N-Coder
automatically identifies module type and displays only the parameters available for that module.
Users can then adjust parameters, audition the results, then store new settings in the module’s non­volatile memory, or inside the N-Coder for later reference. Modules need not be powered, or even
installed in the amplifier for programming; N-Coder provides the necessary power. Parameters can
also be created ahead of time without any modules attached, stored in the N-Coder ,then downloaded
into the module’s memory later. Except for DSP modules, all NC Input Processing modules can be
programmed from an N-Coder.

Programming with N-Coder/PC software

N-Coder/PC Software, a Windows®-based program that configures all Input Processor NC modules,
will run on any PC with Windows ‘95 or 3.1. The computer’s parallel (printer) port is used with a
DB25 to RJ-14 adapter and cable (both supplied) that connects to the Input Processor NC module.

Programming with Octopus

Crest Audio’s LCP-AC8 “Octopus” is a one rack space, Locally Controlled Processor that adds
‘Snapshot’ capability to the CK family of Power Processing amplifiers. Octopus is compatible with
all NC Input Processing modules, and can activate functions including sequential power control,
level attenuation, analog EQ, crossovers, and all DSP parameters. The Octopus may be integrated
with third-party RS-232C system controllers.

Programming with NexSys

Using the appropriate NC Network module, NC Input and Power/Output modules can be controlled,
programmed and/or monitored remotely through the use of NexSys. NexSys is Crest Audio’s hard­ware and software package that offers network connection of Crest Audio amplifiers and associated
devices, along with diagnostic facilities.

Input Processing Module Connections

The CK family of amplifiers come standard with a CC-IPB Input module. Barrier strip input con­nectors and removable individual channel rotary attenuators are provided. All Input modules have
an internal voltage gain/input sensitivity jumper that is factory-set for X40 gain.

Input barrier strip lug / gauge information

Input barrier strips have a 0.325" (8.3mm) center and 0.270" (6.9mm) lug space. For connecting to
the input barrier strips, a wire gauge between 14 AWG (2.5mm2) & 24 AWG (0.25mm2), and spade
lugs (Panduit Part No. PNF 18-6LF-C or equivalent) are recommended.

SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Level

5

4

6

A

3
2
1

0

Level

5

4

6

B

Model
CC-IPB

3
2
1

0

Input A

Input B

–

–

+

+

Barrier strip inputs are ready to accept balanced sig-

7

8
9

nals. For use with an unbalanced source, tie the

10

7

inverting (minus) input to ground by installing a

8
9

10

jumper across the appropriate barrier strip terminals.
If the inverting input is left floating, a 6 dB loss in
gain will result.

Input Barrier Strip

Input Level

Attenuators

AES/EBU Input

This XLR jack accepts a standard AES/EBU XLR
plug.

Daisy chaining

Balanced vs. unbalanced inputs

Some Input Processing modules have daisy-chained outputs, located on barrier strip terminals.
NC-AES and NC-DSP-D modules have balanced daisy chain outputs.
NC-DSP-A and NC-SEQ modules have unbalanced daisy chain outputs.
NC-MCO and NC-MEQ modules have unbalanced mono HP/LP daisy chain outputs.
The NC-SCO module has unbalanced stereo HP/LP daisy chain outputs.

NC-IPE page input & enable connections

Get information from engineering

Input Processing Module Attenuators

Operation

Channel attenuators (A&B) are used to control signal level. Ideally, the amplifier should be operat­ed with the controls at 0dB attenuation. When the amplifier is being used in bridged mono mode,
both attenuators must at the same level.

Knob Removal

The attenuator knobs can be removed and replaced with blanking plugs.
The procedure for attenuator knob removal is as follows:

1. With an X-Acto or similar knife, pop off the grey ke y cap of the attenuator knob. This will reveal
the inside nut.

2. Using needle nose pliers or appropriate size nut driver, loosen and remove the inside nut.

3. Slide the attenuator knob off the shaft.

4. Insert a regular screwdriver in the slotted end of the shaft, and adjust attenuation to desired level.

5. Blanking plugs may now be inserted in the attenuator holes.

Input Processing Modules - Internal Options

Input sensitivity/voltage gain jumper

Input modules have user-settable jumpers to configure Input Gain/Sensitivity. These internal
jumpers (two for CC-IPB, three for all input NC modules), labeled “W1 W2 W3”, are used to set
the overall gain of the amplifier.

+26dB

0dBu

0dBu IN

+32dB

+32dB

A
B

+26dB

0dBu

+32dB

+26dB

0dBu

+32dB

.775V / 0 dBu (For Full Power)

W1
W2

+26dB

Input Gain/Sensitivity Jumpers

X20 (+26 dB)

Channel A Jumper
Channel B Jumper
NexSys Indicator Jumper (NC-IPN Only)

+26dB

0dBu

+26dB

+32dB

0dBu

+32dB

X40 (+32dB) Standard Factory Setting

+26dB

0dBu

CREST AUDIO

The 3 positions (shown at left) allow
the amplifier to be set for constant gain
of X20 (26 dB), X40 (32 dB), OR con­stant sensitivity for full output (.775V)
at 0 dBu input. The standard factory

+32dB

setting is for X40 (32dB). All jumpers
must be set to the same position as
shown.

To change jumper settings, the Input
module must first be removed from the
amplifier.

Warning! Amplifier must
be removed from AC

2 6 C 21 9 7 - 0 2

mains supply before this
operation is undertaken!

The diagram at left shows the location
of these jumpers on the CC-IPB mod­ule. The diagram at the lower right
shows the location of the jumpers on
the NC-IPN module.

NexSys/N-Coder jumper

All NC Modules have internal jumpers used to set the module for operation with NexSys or N­Coder. These jumpers are labeled “W4 W5” on the Input module circuit board.

Input Gain/Sensitivity Jumpers

N-CODE

NC-NXS

N-Coder Setup

The “NC-NXS” jumper position
allows operation with NexSys,
while the “NCODE” jumper posi­tion permits the Input module to be programmed through N-Coder or N-Coder/PC software when
the amplifier is off.

Note: Factory setting is the ‘NexSys’ position. If NexSys, N-Coder, or N-Coder/PC software is not
being used, jumper position will have no effect upon the operation of the amplifier.

N-CODE

NC-NXS

NexSys Setup

W2

W3

W1

+26dB

CREST AUDIO

2 6 C 2 7 9 7 -0 2

0dBu Sen
+32dB

Nexsys / N-Coder Jumpers

N-CODE
NC-NXS

W4

W5

Swapping out Modules

R

Only jumper setting changes or module upgrades require modules to be removed from the amplifi­er. Contact Crest Audio Customer Service for full details on module removal. The ‘General Module
Setup’ diagram indicates the general setup of the rear panel module/bay configuration.

Required T ools

A Phillips screw driver. Should the
module jumpers need to be changed
or removed, a pair of long nose or
needle nose pliers is also useful.

Precautions

Amplifier is shown with the top

If Load Monitoring is
employed, an additional ribbon
cable will be located here.

Network Module

Input Module

cut away for clarity only. Dangerous
voltages exist inside, and only a Crest
Audio-certified service technician
should remove the top cover!
Removable modules contain static­sensitive devices; handle modules at
static-safe work stations! The amplifi­er MUST be switched off and the
mains plug removed from the supply
before module removal operation is
undertaken.

Designed & manufactured in the USA by:

Crest Audio Inc.
100 Eisenhower Dr.
Paramus, New Jersey 07652 USA

Model

Output Power

Model

Output Power

Name

Name

@70.7V

CKV 100
CKV 200
CKV 400
CKV 800
CKV 1600
CKV 2400

+–

Ribbon Cable from
Network Module, if fitted

CLASS 2 WIRING

MAY BE USED

Output

–

A

+

+

B

–

Signal
Ground
Lift
Jumper

CKS 100

50W

CKS 200

100W

CKS 400

200W

CKS 800

400W

CKS 800-2

800W

CKS 1200-2

1200W

CKS 1600-2

Network

Data

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

+–

Hi

Designed & manufactured in the USA by:

CKV 100
CKV 200
CKV 400

CKV 800
CKV 1600
CKV 2400

+–

@8Ω/Ch.

Address

F

8

Model
Name

Removing or Replacing an Input Module.

Remove the four #8 3/8" Phillips pan head sheet

50W
100W
200W
400W
400W
600W
800W

Model
NC-NXS

0

F

1

E

E

2

D

D

3

C

C

4

B

B

5

A

A

6

9

9

7

8

Lo

N-Coder
Data
Port

SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Input A

–

+

Input B

–

+

5

Level

4

A

3
2
1

0

5

Level

4

B

3
2
1

0

Model
NC-IPN

metal screws that secure the module to the chas­sis. The module is connected electrically to the
amplifier via multi-pin ribbon cables. Unplugging
the module from the ribbon cable connectors
frees the module for removal. To insert the same
or another module, simply reverse this procedure,

6

7

8
9

10

making sure that any ribbon cable connectors are

6

7

8
9

properly and securely seated. Note: The amplifier

10

must not be operated without an Input module in
place.

Removing or Replacing a Network Module.

SEE INST

N-Coder
Data
Port

PUSH

This process is the same as that for removing/replacing an

Error

Input module. Be aware, though, that if an NC-NXS

AES/EBU
In

Network module is being removed or replaced, four multi­pin ribbon cables will need to be disconnected. Note:

Standard CK family amplifiers come with a blank panel
installed in the Network bay. The amplifier must not be oper­ated without a Network module or blank panel in place.

Network

Output Power

@70.7V

50W
100W
200W
400W
800W
1200W

+–

Crest Audio Inc.
100 Eisenhower Dr.
Paramus, New Jersey 07652 USA

Model
Name

CKS 100
CKS 200
CKS 400
CKS 800

CKS 800-2
CKS 1200-2
CKS 1600-2

Data

Output Power

@8Ω/Ch.

Address

0

F

1

E

2

D

3

C

4

B

5

A

6

9

7

8

Hi

50W
100W
200W
400W
400W
600W
800W

Model
NC-NXS

0

F

1

E

2

D

3

C

4

B

5

A

6

9

7

8

Lo

DO NOT attempt to replace or remove a Power/Output Module.This module can onl y
be serviced by a Crest Audio certified service technician. Please consult your deal­er, Crest Audio representative, or Crest Audio Customer Service for assistance.
User-inflicted damage to this module will invalidate your warranty.

Storing Unused Modules

Power Processing modules contain static-sensitive devices; therefore
unused modules must be stored in a static-safe environment, preferably at
normal room temperature!

Network Module Information

The CC-BLK (blank panel) comes standard with all amplifiers.
When a Network module (NC-NXS) is installed in this bay, network connection is made via a pair

of three-pin Phoenix-type connectors. They are wired in parallel, and form a loop-through connec­tion. (Mates for these connectors are shipped with the Network module.) Network bus addressing is
accomplished through use of the Hi and Lo Address dials. See the Ne xSys Software manual for more

information on NexSys bus connection and configuration.

Power/Output Module Speaker Connections

Speakers are connected using the Output Barrier Strip connectors. Spade lugs, ring tongues or bare
wire may be connected to the output barrier strip elements. Spade Lug measurements for Output
barrier strip are as follows: .44" (11mm) screw spacing, .32" (8mm) lug space. For output spade
lugs, Panduit Part No. PNF 14-8LF-C (or equivalent) is recommended. Make sure the amplifier is
turned off before you change any output connections or jumpers. Also ensure that the load imped­ance being connected is not less than the amplifier's ability to drive it. See the CK family Power

Processing Amplifier Manual for more information on speaker connection.

Service Information

For service, contact your nearest Crest Audio Service Center , Distributor,Dealer, or Crest Audio Inc.
Customer Service directly at: Tel. [phone] (USA) Fax. [phone] (USA). For technical
inquiries only , the Crest Audio Technical Services Dept. can be faxed at 201.587.0550 (USA). Crest
Audio may also be contacted on the World Wide Web at: http://www.crestaudio.com.

Sequential T urn-On/Off Connections

CK family amplifiers come standard with the CC-STL Sequential Turn-On/Turn-Off (STO)
Output/Power module installed. On this module, a four-pin Sequential Turn-On/Turn-Off (STO)
connector is supplied. A mating connector is shipped with the amplifier. With the amplifier front
power switch set to “remote”, a voltage of between +8 to +18 VDC can be applied across the “Com”
and “+8 to +18V” terminals. When the voltage is on/available, a closure between the “In” and
“Com” terminals will turn the amplifier on. Additional amplifiers are added to the turn-on chain by
looping from the “Out” terminal of one amplifier into the “In” terminal of the next amplifier.

Standard Sequential Turn-On/Turn-Off.

For CK family amplifier systems configured for basic non-NexSys applications, (CC-IPB with CC­STL) an external power supply is needed to provide a nominal +8 to +18 Volts to each STL mod­ule. The number of CC-STL modules that an external DC supply will be able to power is dependent
on the power supply’s voltage output and current capability. Crest Audio’s external Direct Plug-In
Power Supply Unit (CC-WW1) supplies 9 volts at 300 milliamps and can power 15 CC-STL mod­ules. Use only a two-wire power supply! If your configuration requires the STO control of more than
15 amplifiers, contact Crest Audio Customer Service for more information. (Note that module CC­SDC has an integral STO power supply, and does not require CC-WW1).

The “Com” and “+8 to+18V” terminals on each CK family amplifier are bussed together in parallel
and connected to the DC supply. The “Out” terminal of each CK amplifier is connected to the “In”

terminal of the next CK amplifier

Standard Sequential
Turn-On/Off

(max. # of amplifiers is
15 per CC-WW1)

CC-WW1

Direct Plug-In

Power Supply Unit

+8 (min) to +18VDC (max)

in the turn-on sequence. The first
amplifier in the chain requires an
SPST closure between it’s “In”
terminal and “Com” terminal to
initiate the power turn-on
sequence and keep the amplifiers
in the chain powered on.

LISTED 8B42

COMMERCIAL

POWER

AMPLIFIER

120V~60 Hz 15A

LISTED 8B42

COMMERCIAL

POWER

AMPLIFIER

120V~60 Hz 15A

In

Out
Com

CLASS 2 ONLY

In

Out
Com

CLASS 2 ONLY

+8 to 18VDC
20 mA

NEC

+8 to 18VDC
20 mA

NEC

Turn-on delay time between
amplifiers fitted with basic mod­ules (i.e., CC-STL) is approxi­mately 100ms, turn-off delay time
is 200ms.

Manual or NexSys-Compatible Sequential Turn-On/Turn-Off.

CK family amplifiers fitted with a NexSys-compatible NC Power/Output Module (NC-STI, NC­SAC, NC-SLM) may be powered up via NexSys OR with a manual switch closure. If NexSys is
employed, the STO delay time is also software-controllable.

Note: when using NexSys control, hard-wiring for manual switch closure between ampli­fiers should be used cautiously. If the switch closure output is wired up, it WILL cause the
next amp to switch, regardless of which source (hardware switch or NexSys STO) has ini­tiated the command.

The modules (and the non-NexSys compatible CC-SIO) feature a 6-pin connector providing a 3­wire input from switch closures (or from a CK family amplifier) and an opto-isolated 3-wire output
to another CK amplifier. The 3-wire signals are: ON, OFF, and COM. To initiate either the ON or
OFF function manually, simply provide a closure from the proper signal line to COM; after a time
delay of approximately 200ms, the closure is echoed on the 3 isolated output signal pins to initiate
the turn-on function in ‘downstream’ amplifiers. The on/off closures can be either momentary or
constant contact.

Manually Initiated (hard-wired) Sequential

Turn-On/Off using NexSys-compatible

Power/Output Modules

On

Off

Output

In

On
Com
Off
On
Com
Off

Out

NexSys-Initiated Sequential Turn-On/Off

using NexSys-compatible Power/ Output

Modules (unlimited # of amplifiers)

®

PC

NC-NXS

Output

In

On
Com
Off
On
Com
Off

Out

NC-NXS

A-AES/EBU B-Barrier Strip 4P-Four Pin 6P-Six Pin

BS-Balanced, Stereo UBS=Unbalanced, Stereo MXO=Unbalanced Mono Crossover SXO-Unbalanced Stereo Crossover

CC-SIO N 6P Y

CC-STL N 4P N

NC-SAC Y 6P Y Voltage/Current Monitor

NC-SLM Y 6P Y Volt./Curr. & Load Monitor,Audio Return

NC-STI Y 6P Y

Network Modules Control Bus Connection Turn-On/Off Control

Power/Output Modules

CC-SDC N 4P N

NexSys-Compatible STO Connection Self-powered Advanced NexSys functions

NC-NXS Y Y Y

NexSys Twisted Pair Data Computer Sequential

NC-MEQ B MXO Y Gain Control, Mono EQ/2-way Xover

NC-SCO B SXO Y Gain Control, Stereo Xover

NC-SEQ B UBS Y Gain Control, Stereo EQ

NC-IPE B N/A Y Gain Control, Priority Page

NC-IPN B N/A Y Gain Control

NC-MCO B MXO Y Gain Control, 2-way Xover

Input Processing Modules Input Connection Daisy Chain Out Programmable Module Functions

CC-IPB B N/A N Gain Control

NC-AES A BS Y Gain Control

NC-DSP-A B UBS Y Analog Input DSP

NC-DSP-D A BS Y Digital Input DSP

Power Processing Modules - Overview

Crest Audio reserves the right to make improvements in manufacturing or design which may affect specifications.

Crest Audio specification literature is available in downloadable PDF file format; visit our website at

http://www.crestaudio.com. NexSys is a registered trademark of Crest Audio Inc. ©1997 Crest Audio Inc.

v. 1.1 11/6/97

A3300044

Crest Audio Inc.

100 Eisenhower Dr., Paramus NJ 07652 USA

TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

http://www.crestaudio.com

Printed in USA