Furman IT-REF 15I Users Manual
IT-REFERENCE 15i
DISC RET E SY M MET RICAL P OW ER CO NDI TIO NER
CONDITIONNEUR D'ALIMENTATION SYMÉTRIQUE DISCRET
OWN ER’S M A N U AL
GUI DE D E L’ U TIL IS ATEU R
D
ISCRETE
S
YMMETRICAL
P
OWER
IT-R
EFERENCE
15
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ENGLISH
IT-REFERENCE 15
DI SC RET E SYMM ET RI CAL P OWE R CO NDI TI ONE R
CONDITIONNEUR D'ALIMENTATION SYMÉTRIQUE DISCRET
ACONDICIONADOR DE POTENCIA SIMETRICA Y DISCRETA
D
ISCRETE
S
YMMETRICAL
P
OWER
IT-R
EFERENCE
15
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IT-RefeRence 15i OwneR’s Manual
IT-RefeRence 15i GuIde de l’uTIlIsaTeuR
FRANÇAIS
Page 12
PaRa esPanOl, vIsITa www.fuRMansOund.cOM
ESPAÑOL
www.FurmanSound.com
All content ©2006 Furman Sound, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed in China.
IT-RefeRence 15i OwneR’s Manual
IT-Reference 15i Features
• Discrete Symmetrical Power with dual screen technology cancels hum-inducing noise from audio and video
• Power Factor Technology provides current on demand for power-starved ampliers
• Linear Filtering Technology for unequaled audio / video clarity
• Series Multi-Stage Protection provides virtually maintenance-free AC surge suppression
• Three HD ready bidirectional coaxial surge suppression modules
• Detachable telco surge suppression module
Introduction
For over 33 years, Furman has pioneered the development of AC power products for the most demanding audio, video, and
broadcast professionals. Though the need for pristine AC power is nothing new, the IT-Reference 15i’s technology and its unique
implementation are revolutionary and without peer.
The extreme AC demands encountered in the professional audio/video arena have required technological developments far in
excess of typical home theater/audiophile power products. In studios, live audio/video, and broadcast facilities, breakdown is
unacceptable. Equipment failure or poor performance is costly. The same is true of today’s home theater. Our solution-based
technology, extensive engineering expertise, and robust build quality have answered the challenge of today’s corrupted power
lines, and led to the creation of the IT-Reference 15i.
Today’s AC lines are plagued with ever increasing noise. When AC noise couples into your system’s critical components, it
masks low level signals and cripples performance. This low level content is critical because it relays the crucial harmonics and
ambience in audio, and depth and clarity in video. With the IT-Reference 15i’s exclusive Discrete Symmetrical Power, video
screens, projectors, CD-DVD players, pre-ampliers, and scalers are fed either wide bandwidth linearly-ltered power, or discrete
symmetrical power. This dramatically reduces AC noise, ensuring peak operation of your critical components. For the rst time,
you will see and hear your theater or audio system as it should be – uncompromised.
Further, our Discrete Symmetrical Power features total isolation between the ltered-high current outlets, and the isolated
symmetrical power AC outlet banks. This positively breaks noise-inducing ground loops, hum bars, and power supply backwash
between critical interconnected equipment, all without compromising electrical safety. This enables a plasma, LCD screen, or
video projector to function without AC ground contamination from an audio processor or power ampliers.
The IT-Reference 15i also employs our unique Power Factor Technology circuit. For the rst time, low-level analog, digital, and
video components are not modulated or distorted via the power amplier’s extreme AC current demands. Further, the power
amplier sees a highly ltered, extremely low-impedance supply of AC power. The IT-Reference 15i, in fact, has in excess of 4.5
amps of continuous current reserve (over 55 amps pk. charge) for the most extreme peak power demands. This technology
enables power ampliers and powered subwoofers to work at maximum eciency and reach levels of performance previously
unattainable.
No longer will your amplier’s performance be at the mercy of your home’s incoming AC power or inferior AC protection/ltering
devices. The net eect is as if your power amplier has nearly doubled in power and improved immeasurably in quality.
When employing the IT-Reference 15i you will immediately notice far clearer, stunningly focused sound and visual images from
your system. Video presentation will be crisp and colors true with greater gray and black scale denition, as well as noticeably
improved depth and clarity. Sonic transients will be startlingly fast with bass fundamentals that shake foundations with
their weight and visceral impact. Mid and high frequencies will bloom with sweet, non-glaring ease while imaging improves
dramatically, all the while remaining true to your system’s inherent virtues.
4
Installation
Unpacking
Before unpacking your unit, inspect the carton for any obvious severe damage to the box and internal protective materials.
If internal damage is likely, contact the carrier who delivered the unit before proceeding with unpacking. If, after unpacking,
shipping damage is evident, contact the carrier. Save all shipping and packing materials. You may need them if you should
ever have to return the unit to the factory for servicing.
The box should contain the IT-Reference 15i unit, detachable AC cord, rack mount kit, owner’s manual, and warranty
registration card. If anything is missing, please contact Furman Customer Service. Fill out and return your warranty
registration card. Registration is recommended because it can be used to establish whether the unit is within the warranty
period should your original ownership documents be lost, and it assists us in informing you about upgrades or other vital
information.
Safety Information - Warnings
Please read and observe all of the safety and operating instructions before the IT-Reference 15i is operated. Retain these
instructions for future reference.
• Do not disassemble or modify in any way. No user-serviceable parts inside
• Keep away from moisture and avoid excessive humidity
• Do not allow liquids or foreign objects to enter the unit
• Household lighting equipment may not be connected to the IT-Reference 15i because their sockets are not designed
for use with symmetrical power and may present a shock hazard. We recommend that only audio, video and computer
processing equipment be connected to the IT-Reference 15i.
FRANÇAIS ENGLISH
The IT-Reference 15i should be serviced by qualied service personnel when:
• The power supply cord or plug has been frayed or cut.
• Objects have fallen or liquid has spilled into the unit.
• The IT-Reference 15i has been exposed to rain or other moisture.
• The IT-Reference 15i does not appear to operate normally, or exhibits a marked change in performance.
• The IT-Reference 15i has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
Power Source
The power source to which the IT-Reference 15i is connected should be adequate for use at 15 amps. The IT-Reference 15i
will operate with a 10 amp service outlet; however, nuisance tripping at the circuit breaker panel may result if the systems
continuous current draw exceeds 9 amps.
Placement
The IT-Reference 15i is manufactured with four rubber feet for placement on any table, cabinet, shelf, or oor capable
of supporting its 50lb weight. These rubber feet may be easily removed with a standard Philips screw driver when rack
mounting adjacent to other components. Because of the IT-Reference 15i’s internal shielding, placement or proximity to
other components is not critical, and the IT-Reference 15i does not produce any appreciable heat under standard use. The
IT-Reference 15i may also be rack mounted in a standard 19” rack by attaching the IT-Reference 15i rack ears. These rack ears
(contained within the plastic rack kit package) mount ush with the back portion of the IT-Reference 15i’s front panel. They
are attached to the chassis by removing the (2) countersunk screws on each forward-side of the chassis top cover. Each rack
ear is installed with (3) pan-head Philips screws contained within the IT-Reference 15i rack mounting kit. The third screw used
for each rack ear is for the center hole, located towards the rear and aids in stabilizing the unit when rack mounted.
For rack mounting that will be transported, rear rack mounting is recommended due to the high mass of the IT-Reference 15i.
These rear rack kits are not necessary for a stationary installation. They are available from your Furman dealer as an optional
accessory. The rack kit model number is: RRM-2 REF.
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IT-RefeRence 15i OwneR’s Manual
Connection
AC Cable Routing
Once the IT-Reference 15i is placed, its AC cord’s female end must be plugged into the male IEC connector located on the lower
left hand side of the rear panel (when facing the rear panel). Next the male Edison plug must be connected to an appropriate
socket (see current rating recommendation above).
Connecting Components to the Symmetrical Power Banks
The IT-Reference 15i’s two “Discrete Symmetrically Power Outlets” should be employed for critical video components such as
DVD players, projectors, plasma, or LCD video screens. When employing the IT-Reference 15i for a 2-channel audio system, a preamplier and/or SACD player would be ideally suited for these outlets.
Connecting Components to the Linear Filtering Power Banks
The IT-Reference 15i’s four rear panel and one front panel “Linear Filtering Power Outlets” should be employed for any
component not connected to the two “Discrete Symmetrically Power Outlets,” with the exception of receivers with power
amplication, power ampliers and powered sub-woofers. These outlets, though neither isolated or symmetrical, still posses
extraordinary ltering to maximize system performance through vast AC noise reduction.
Connecting Components to the High Current Power Amplier Banks
All power ampliers, powered receivers and powered sub-woofers should be connected to these four outlets.
Many audiophile and premium home theater systems will have combined continuous current demands below 15 amps. It is
rare, in fact, for large power ampliers to draw more than 4 amps continuously. For superior performance, it is vital that an AC
lter possess extraordinarily low impedance, and have the capability to pass peak current demands far in excess of the RMS
(continuous) current rating.
The IT-Reference 15i was designed to more than meet this demand. Additionally, our Power Technology circuitry eectively
creates a current reserve in excess of 55 amps pk. up-charge that is cleaner and more ecient than a dedicated line from your
local power station. This feature eliminates any concern towards the current compression that can result from typical power
conditioners, and the current on demand benets any power ampliers performance dramatically.
Note about Power Factor Technology and Current Consumption
When Power Factor Technology is employed with even the most sophisticated circuit breakers, it eectively adds to the
perceived current load. Though the IT-Reference 15i was designed for steady 15 amp operation, and peak current demands
many times that, the maximum total continuous current draw may be limited to a range between 1300 - 1700 Watts per ITReference 15i employed.
The RMS current available before the circuit breaker trips varies due to what is referred to as a vector load. Simply put, the type
of power supplies or electronic circuits connected to the IT-Reference 15i will have an eect on its circuit breakers perceived
current load, and therefore, when it will trip. Though the benets of Power Factor Technology far outweigh the small reduction
in continuous current draw, this must be accounted for when constructing a large system with high current demands.
The total continuous current draw of most electronic components is typically listed in Watts by their AC input cord or AC
connector. Watt ratings are simply added to determine the total system RMS current draw. It should also be noted that the
IT-Reference 15i’s Power Factor Technology circuitry has no actual eect on the power drawn from your utilities’ power meter.
The IT-Reference 15i draws a mere 8.5 Watts independent of other components, so it may be left on at all times.
6
Suggested AC Connection
HIGH
CURRENT
OUTLETS
FILTERED
OUTLETS
1800 WATT
CAPACITY
MAXIMUM
LINEARLY
120 VAC 60Hz
15 AMPS MAX
IN
OUTINOUT
DISCRETE SYMMETRICAL POWER
840 WATT MAX OUTPUT - 60 /1 20V1O AC
WARNING -DO NOT CONNECTTO LIGHTING EQUIPMENT
Audio
Pre-Amplier
CD
Player
LCD/Plasma Monitor
or Video Projector
Telco Protectors (x2)
AC Cord
Powered
Subwoofer
Cable / Satellite
Protectors (x3)
Mono
Block
Amplier
2 - 7
Channel
Amplier
VCR
or DVR
Cable/Satellite
Receiver
DVD/
HD-DVD/
Blu-ray Player
Soft Start - Continuous Use and Break-In Time
When power is rst applied to the IT-Reference 15i, (the front panel breaker- power toggle must be switched to the “on”
position) the Soft Start feature is activated. There is an audible “clack” when the IT-Reference 15i is rst turned on or o.
This sound is produced by the Soft Start circuit’s 30 Amp relay engaging or disengaging. There is virtually nothing in the
IT-Reference 15i’s construction, design, or componentry to wear over the life time of the product, and there is no power draw
from your electric service meter aside from the LED power indicator, relay, and GFCI protection circuit. For this reason the
IT-Reference 15i may be left with its power engaged permanently at a cost of pennies per month. This is an added benet,
as many audio/videophiles nd performance improves signicantly when leaving low-powered components permanently
charged (turned on). In fact, this is true of the IT-Reference 15i. Though it will function awlessly right from its shipping
carton, the performance of its circuit parts will improve after approximately two weeks of continuous use or “break-in.”
FRANÇAIS ENGLISH
Ground Fault Interrupter (GFCI)
The IT-Reference 15i’s “Discrete Symmetrical Filtered AC outlets” incorporate a balanced AC power output, whereby both the
neutral and positive leads of the AC cable run at 60 Volts AC in opposing polarity, referenced to ground (0 Volts AC). This is
but one of the IT-Reference 15i’s advantages over other AC-lter/protection designs.
Though virtually all domestically produced electronic equipment is designed to detect electrical shorts and other potentially
dangerous equipment problems in the Line lead referenced to its Neutral, this is inadequate when power is symmetrical or
“balanced.” With the IT-Reference 15i’s symmetrical outlets, both neutral and positive legs contain 60 VAC relative to their
Ground tab. This is not a problem or safety hazard, unless there is a defect in either the IT-Reference 15i’s transformer, or the
power supply of a connected component. In this instance, we need to assure that safety is always maintained. The solution is
our GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter).
The Furman GFCI detects any imbalance in the current owing in the two hot legs. The missing current is presumed to be
owing through the ground conductor (the round pin on an AC outlet). Ground current often indicates a dangerous partial
or full short circuit. If an imbalance is detected, the GFCI will trip the outlets internal breaker, and the Duplex AC outlet will
no longer supply AC power of any sort. To restore operation, correct the fault, press the reset tab located between the two
balanced AC outlets. 5 mA of current is enough to cause the GFCI to trip; to troubleshoot this type of problem, start with
nothing connected to the IT-Reference 15i’s balanced power outlets. Then, add each piece of equipment until the GFCI trips.
Contact the manufacturer of the suspect unit for possible solutions.
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IT-RefeRence 15i OwneR’s Manual
AC Transient Voltage Surge Suppression and Extreme Voltage Shutdown
Extreme Voltage Indicator
This LED is normally o. It monitors AC wiring faults – for example, accidental connection to an open neutral from a 208 or
240VAC feed (this is a common occurrence if the 15 Amp outlet source is not a dedicated line, but instead has been wired with
a daisy-chained neutral from a homes breaker box). The Extreme Voltage Shutdown (EVS) circuit senses voltages that are so
high that operation would be impossible and shuts the power down before damage can occur. Upon initially applying power
to these units, the Extreme Voltage indicator LED will light if the input voltage is above the extreme voltage cuto, and power
will not be applied to the unit’s outlets. If the unit has been operating with an acceptable input voltage and subsequently that
voltage exceeds 140V, it will shut o power to the outlet and the Extreme Voltage LED will light.
Protection OK Indicator
Although the Furman SMP circuit assures virtually maintenance-free protection from transient voltage spikes and surges, nature
has a way of occasionally creating electrical forces that are beyond the capabilities of any transient voltage surge suppression
device to absorb without some degree of damage.
In the extraordinarily rare instance that this occurs, the blue LED located in the center of the front panel will dim completely,
even though AC power is present at the unit’s outputs. If this happens, some level of protection from voltage surges will remain,
but the Furman’s clamping voltage rating will be compromised. The unit must be returned to Furman Sound, or an authorized
Furman Service center for repair.
NOTE: If the mains power is above the high cuto voltage and has caused the unit to remove power from its outlets, it cannot restore
power without the operator manually turning the unit o, then on again. Avoid turning the unit back on without rst checking the
source of the problem and perhaps changing the AC source.
Telco – Satellite – Cable Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors
The IT-Reference 15i features transient voltage surge suppression for both standard telephone lines, as well as cable or satellite
lines utilizing standard coaxial connectors. As these surge suppressors are in-line, they will require an additional cable to
connect from their output to the control device requiring protection.
All in-line surge suppressors feature our exclusive ground contamination free technology. This aids in eliminating audio buzzing,
and the video hum-bars that can result from typical in-line suppressors. Further, our cable and satellite suppressors are TiVO®
- DVR friendly as well as HD-Digital Television ready. Both DC carrier signals as well as high bandwidth signals can pass through
our circuit. In fact the bandwidth is less than 0.1dB loss at 1GHz!
To connect your cabling to these in-line protectors, simply follow the in and out indications marked next to the Telco, Cable and
Satellite connectors.
Note: It is not possible to make an in-line telco protector “virtually maintenance-free” as we have accomplished with the 120 VAC line.
This would necessitate limited signal bandwidth that would not allow the signal to pass. Under extreme conditions, it is possible that
the surge suppression in one of these devices could sacrice itself after a catastrophic event. If the telephone signal will no longer
pass through our protector, please contact your local service representative, installer or Furman for servicing. Since these circuits
are modular, replacement may be accomplished in seconds with a new TVSS module. To test this, simply disconnect the incoming
and out going cable from the IT-Reference 15i. Connect the incoming connector to the component that formerly received the out
going connector, thus by-passing the in-line protection. If the signal is present (but not when used with the IT-Reference 15i) then the
protection circuit is damaged (assuming it worked properly before a storm or catastrophic event).
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