Federal Signal Corporation Pathfinder Installation And Maintenance Instructions Manual
25500463
B0 0818
Printed in U.S.A.
PathnderTM
Installation and
Maintenance Instructions
Distributed By:
Limited Warranty
This product is subject to and covered by a limited warranty,
a copy of which can be found at www.fedsig.com/SSG-Warranty.
A copy of this limited warranty can also be obtained by written
request to Federal Signal Corporation, 2645 Federal Signal Drive,
University Park, IL 60484, email to info@fedsig.com or
call +1 708-534-3400.
This limited warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or
implied, contractual or statutory, including, but not limited to the
warranty of merchantability, warranty of tness for a particular
purpose and any warranty against failure of its essential purpose.
2645 Federal Signal Drive
University Park, Illinois 60484
www.fedsig.com
Customer Support
Police/Fire-EMS: 800-264-3578 • +1 708 534-3400
Work Truck: 800-824-0254 • +1 708 534-3400
Technical Support 800-433-9132 • +1 708 534-3400
Allegiant, Integrity, Navigator, Rumbler, SignalMaster, SpectraLux, and Valor are registered trademarks of Federal Signal Corporation
Contents
Chapter 1 Safety Messages for Installers and Operators ......................................................5
Safety Messages to Installers of Sound/Light Systems .....................................................................5
Safety Messages to Operators of Sound/Light Systems ....................................................................8
Chapter 2 An Overview of the Pathnder .............................................................................. 10
Siren, PA, and Speakers ...................................................................................................................10
Lightbars and SignalMasterTM Control .............................................................................................10
FS Vehicle Integration ...................................................................................................................... 11
Programmable Solid-State Auxiliary Relays ...................................................................................11
Programmable Input Circuits ........................................................................................................... 11
LED Indicators and Visual Diagnostics ........................................................................................... 11
System Specications ......................................................................................................................12
Siren Specications ..........................................................................................................................12
Relay Specications .........................................................................................................................12
Pathnder Kit Contents ....................................................................................................................13
Chapter 3 Wiring the Pathnder .............................................................................................15
General Guidelines for Wiring the Pathnder on a Vehicle .............................................................15
Overview of the Pathnder Connections .........................................................................................17
Convergence Network Ports .......................................................................................................17
Relay Outputs .............................................................................................................................17
General Purpose Inputs ...............................................................................................................17
Park Input ...................................................................................................................................17
Horn Ring Transfer .....................................................................................................................18
Speaker Connections ..................................................................................................................18
Speaker Diagnostics ...................................................................................................................19
Radio Re-Broadcast ....................................................................................................................19
FS Vehicle Integration ................................................................................................................19
Ignition Input ..............................................................................................................................19
System Power .............................................................................................................................19
Chapter 4 Mounting the Pathnder ........................................................................................ 21
Mounting the Siren ..........................................................................................................................23
Mounting the Control Head (PF200R) ............................................................................................23
Chapter 5 Testing the Pathnder Installation ........................................................................25
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Contents
Chapter 6 Control Head Legends and Safety Messages .....................................................28
Applying the Replaceable Control Head Legends ...........................................................................28
Distributing the Safety Message Card .............................................................................................29
Applying the Siren Safety Labels in the Vehicle .............................................................................29
Chapter 7 Safety Messages to Personnel Servicing Federal Electronic Sirens ................30
Chapter 8 Servicing the Pathnder ........................................................................................ 31
Replacing the Slide Switch ..............................................................................................................31
Getting Technical Support and Service ............................................................................................34
Returning a Product to Federal Signal .............................................................................................35
Tables
Table 2.1 PF200 Kit Contents .............................................................................................................13
Table 2.2 PF200R Kit Contents ...........................................................................................................14
Table 5.1 Pathnder Switch Default Programming .............................................................................26
Table 5.2 Pathnder Button Default Programming .................................................................................... 26
Table 5.3 Pathnder Input Default Programming ....................................................................................... 27
Table 8.1 Service Parts ........................................................................................................................33
Figures
Figure 3.1 100W Single Tone and 200W Dual Tone Siren Connections ............................................ 16
Figure 3.2 100W Siren with Integrated Rumbler ................................................................................16
Figure 3.3 Battery Connections...........................................................................................................20
Figure 4.1 Pathnder Dimensions .......................................................................................................22
Figure 4.2 Mounting Hardward Dimensions ......................................................................................22
Figure 4.3 Bail Bracket Assembly ........................................................................................................ 23
Figure 4.4 Bracket Attached to Back of Control Head ........................................................................24
Figure 4.5 Brackets Attached to Control Head and Mounting Surface ............................................... 24
Figure 5.1 Pathnder Default Programming .......................................................................................25
Figure 6.1 Installing the Control Head Labels ....................................................................................28
Figure 6.2 Safety Message Card (left) and Siren Safety Labels (right) ..............................................29
Figure 8.1 Keypad Removal ................................................................................................................31
Figure 8.2 Slide Switch Replacement .................................................................................................32
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CHAPTER 1
Safety Messages for Installers and Operators
For your safety, read and understand this manual thoroughly before installing, operating, and
servicing the Pathnder siren amplier/relay module. The safety messages presented in this chapter
and throughout the manual are reminders to exercise extreme care at all times. In addition, read and
understand the safety instructions to installers (doc. no. 256A692), and keep it close at hand for
reference.
To download copies of this manual, go to www.fedsig.com or call the Federal Signal Service
Department at 1-800-433-9132 (708-534-3400) 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday (CT).
Safety Messages to Installers of Sound/Light Systems
People’s lives depend on your proper installation and servicing of Federal Signal products. It is
important to read and follow all instructions shipped with this product. In addition, listed below are
some other important safety instructions and precautions you should follow:
Before Installation
Qualications
• To properly install an electronic siren, you must have a good understanding of automotive
electrical procedures and systems, along with prociency in the installation and service of safety
warning equipment. Always refer to the vehicle’s service manuals when performing equipment
installations on a vehicle.
Sound Hazards
• Your hearing and the hearing of others, in or close to your emergency vehicle, could be damaged
by loud sounds. This can occur from short exposures to very loud sounds, or from longer
exposures to moderately loud sounds. For hearing conservation guidance, refer to federal, state,
or local recommendations. OSHA Standard 1910.95 offers guidance on “Permissible Noise
Exposure.”
• All effective sirens and horns produce loud sounds (120 dB) that may cause permanent hearing
loss. Always minimize your exposure to siren sound and wear hearing protection. Do not sound
the siren indoors or in enclosed areas where you and others will be exposed to the sound.
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Chapter 1: Safety Messages for Installers and Operators
• Federal Signal siren amplier/relay modules and speakers are designed to work together as a
system. Combining a siren and speaker from different manufacturers may reduce the warning
effectiveness of the siren system and may damage the components. You should verify or test your
combination to make sure the system works together properly and meets federal, state and local
standards or guidelines.
During Installation
• Do NOT get metal shavings inside the product. Metal shavings in the product can cause the
system to fail. If drilling must be done near the unit, place an ESD approved cover over the unit to
prevent metal shavings from entering the unit. Inspect the unit after mounting to be sure there are
no shavings present in or near the unit.
• Do NOT connect this system to the vehicle battery until ALL other electrical connections are
made, mounting of all components is complete, and you have veried that no shorts exist. If
wiring is shorted to vehicle frame, high current conductors can cause hazardous sparks resulting in
electrical res or ying molten metal.
• Be sure the siren amplier/relay module and speaker(s) in your installation have compatible
wattage ratings.
• In order for the electronic siren to function properly, the ground connection must be made to the
NEGATIVE battery terminal.
• Sound output will be severely reduced if any objects are in front of the speaker. If maximum
sound output is required for your application, you should ensure that the front of the speaker is
clear of any obstructions.
• Install the speaker(s) as far forward on the vehicle as possible, in a location which provides
maximum signaling effectiveness and minimizes the sound reaching the vehicle’s occupants.
Refer to the National Institute of Justice guide 500-00 for further information.
• Mounting the speakers behind the grille will reduce the sound output and warning effectiveness of
the siren system. Before mounting speakers behind the grille, make sure the vehicle operators are
trained and understand that this type of installation is less effective for warning others.
• Sound propagation and warning effectiveness will be severely reduced if the speaker is not facing
forward. Carefully follow the installation instructions and always install the speaker with the
projector facing forward.
• Do NOT install the speaker(s) or route the speaker wires where they may interfere with the
operation of airbag sensors.
• Installation of two speakers requires wiring speakers in phase.
• Never attempt to install aftermarket equipment, which connects to the vehicle wiring, without
reviewing a vehicle wiring diagram available from the vehicle manufacturer. Insure that your
installation will not affect vehicle operation and safety functions or circuits. Always check vehicle
for proper operation after installation.
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Chapter 1: Safety Messages for Installers and Operators
• Do NOT install equipment or route wiring or cord in the deployment path of an airbag.
• If a vehicle seat is temporarily removed, verify with the vehicle manufacturer if the seat needs to
be recalibrated for proper airbag deployment.
• Locate the control head so the vehicle, controls, and microphone can be operated safely.
• When drilling into a vehicle structure, be sure that both sides of the surface are clear of anything
that could be damaged. All drilled holes should be deburred and all sharp edges should be
smoothed. All wires going through drilled holes should be protected by a grommet or convolute/
split-loom tubing. Additionally, all exterior drilled holes must be sealed with Motorcraft seam
sealer T-A-2-B or equivalent to prevent the potential exposure to carbon monoxide or other
potentially harmful fumes. Failure to observe this warning could cause serious injury or death.
After Installation
• After installation, test the siren and light system to ensure that it is operating properly.
• Test all vehicle functions, including horn operation, vehicle safety functions and vehicle light
systems, to ensure proper operation. Ensure that installation has not affected vehicle operation or
changed any vehicle safety function or circuit.
• After testing is complete, provide a copy of these instructions to the instructional staff and all
operating personnel.
• File these instructions in a safe place and refer to them when maintaining or reinstalling the
product.
Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may result in property damage, serious injury,
or death.
RETAIN AND REFER TO THESE MESSAGES
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Chapter 1: Safety Messages for Installers and Operators
Safety Messages to Operators of Sound/Light Systems
People’s lives depend on your safe operation of Federal Signal products. It is important to read and
follow all instructions shipped with the products. In addition, listed below are some other important
safety instructions and precautions you should follow:
• Do not attempt to activate or de-activate the light system control while driving in a hazardous
situation.
• Although your warning system is operating properly, it may not be completely effective. People
may not see or heed your warning signal. You must recognize this fact and continue driving
cautiously.
• Also, situations may occur which obstruct your warning signal when natural and man-made
objects are between your vehicle and others, such as raising your hood or trunk lid. If these
situations occur, be especially careful.
• All effective sirens and horns produce loud sounds that may cause, in certain situations, permanent
hearing loss. You and your passengers should consider taking appropriate safety precautions, such
as wearing hearing protection.
• In order to be an effective warning device, this product produces bright light that can be hazardous
to your eyesight when viewed at a close range. Do not stare directly into this lighting product at a
close range or permanent damage to your eyesight may occur.
• It is important that you fully understand how to safely operate this warning system before use.
• You should only operate your vehicle and its light/sound system in accordance with your
department’s Standard Operating Procedures.
• If a selected function does not perform properly or if any of the lamps remain illuminated when
the control is off, disconnect the power connector from the control unit and contact the nearest
service center.
• At the start of your shift, you should ensure that the entire warning light system and the siren
system is securely attached and operating properly.
• The effectiveness of an interior mounted warning light depends on the clarity, the tinting, and the
angle of the glass it is being placed behind. Tinting, dirt, defects, and steeply angled glass reduce
the light output of the warning light. This may reduce the effectiveness of the light as a warning
signal. If your vehicle has dirty, tinted, or steeply angled glass, use extra caution when driving
your vehicle or blocking the right of way with your vehicle.
• Suction cup mounting is for temporary applications only. The unit should be removed from the
window and stored securely when not in use. Temperature changes and sunlight can cause suction
cups to lose holding power. Periodically check the unit to be sure the suction cups have a rm grip
on the mounting surface. An improperly secured light could fall off of the vehicle causing injury
and damage.
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Chapter 1: Safety Messages for Installers and Operators
• The holding power of magnetic mounting systems is dependent upon surface nish, surface
atness, and thickness of the steel mounting surface.
Therefore, to promote proper magnetic mounting:
✓
The mounting surface and magnets must be kept clean, dry, and free of foreign particles that
prevent good surface contact.
✓
Ensure that the mounting surface is at.
✓
A magnet mounting system should not be used on vehicles with vinyl tops.
✓
To prevent the light assembly from sliding on mounting surface, avoid quick acceleration and
hard stops.
Failure to follow these precautions may result in property damage, serious injury, or death.
RETAIN AND REFER TO THESE MESSAGES
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CHAPTER 2
An Overview of the Pathnder
The Pathnder siren is a full-featured, programmable electronic siren and light control system. State-
of-the-art microprocessor technology is used to create a system with a small, compact siren system
that can be installed under the dashboard (PF200, Self -Contained), in the trunk or under the seat
(PF200R, Remote) of any vehicle with a 12 V or 24 V negative ground system. The Pathnder siren
uses class D amplier technology to provide two independent 100W channels of audio, for a total
of 200W, without the need for a large and heavy transformer. The module provides the automatic,
simultaneous light and siren activation required by some jurisdictions. A security gun timer is also
provided to minimize the possibility of unauthorized shotgun release. The module has two easily
accessible Convergence Network serial ports that can connect a remote mounted control head and/
or any serially-controlled Federal Signal product. The siren also has FS Vehicle Integration to allow
for various events a vehicle to integrate with siren/lighting control. A variety of system features
can be programmed with the Convergence Network Conguration Software from a computer via a
USB cable that connects the siren amplier. System features include ash patterns, siren tones, and
momentary, push-on/push-off, timed relay operation, as well as vehicle events. Programming does
not require disassembling or removing any hardware from the vehicle.
Siren, PA, and Speakers
The Pathnder produces wail, yelp, priority, and as well as an air horn sound by default. The horn-
ring transfer feature enables the driver to control siren tones by pressing the horn button. Public
address is available with the Federal Signal microphone, which is included with the system. Radio
rebroadcast is also available. The Pathnder can drive one or two 11-ohm impedance, 100 W
speakers. The two 11-ohm impedance, 100 W speakers have separate wires that allow the Pathnder
to provide dual siren tones. Alternatively, the Pathnder can drive one 11-ohm impedance, 100
W speaker on one channel, and two Rumbler speakers on the second channel to provide Rumbler
integration, without the need for a secondary external amplier.
Lightbars and SignalMasterTM Control
Compatible lightbars include full featured, serially-controlled Federal Signal Legend®, Valor®,
TM
Allegiant
lightbars. In addition, ash rates and patterns, lightbar dimming, external SignalMaster control and
other options can be programmed with the Convergence Network Conguration Software.
, Navigator®, and Integrity® as well as the SpectraLux ILS Series of interior-mounted
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Chapter 2: An Overview of the Pathnder
FS Vehicle Integration
The Pathnder siren includes the capability to integrate with the existing vehicle CAN bus. The
FS Vehicle Integration uses a vehicle specic cable (not included) to seamlessly integrate with the
vehicle. Vehicle events can be programmed with the Convergence Network Conguration Software to
interface with the lighting/siren control. The Convergence Network Conguration Software contains
the latest list of events supported based on model, make and year of the vehicle.
Programmable Solid-State Auxiliary Relays
The Pathnder has 12 solid-state relays: ve 10A active high solid-state relays: one 10 A high-low and
six 5 A high. The maximum output current for each relay can be set with the Convergence Network
Conguration Software.
Programmable Input Circuits
The Pathnder has connections for four general purpose input circuits, plus dedicated inputs for
park, horn and ign. Ignition is an active-high only input, while all other inputs are programmable for
active-high or active-low. The inputs are most commonly used for switches that send a signal to the
siren when a condition in the vehicle changes.
LED Indicators and Visual Diagnostics
All buttons on the control head glow when the system is on. Pressed buttons turn bright to indicate
that the function they control is active. The buttons are programmable for red or blue backlighting.
LEDs on the keypad mimic these active SignalMaster patterns: Left, Right, Center-Out, and Warn
patterns. An LED glows over the position in which the slide switch is placed. Diagnostic LEDs for
speaker fault detection are also available and are programmable.
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