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ARRAY SERIES
S.A.F. E. GUIDE
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Introduction
This guide provides instruction on what S.A.F.E. components are required, and how to connect them, to create
several example arrays. The suspension points, hardware, and methods that are used to hang the array must
meet professional rigging standards. JBL Technical Note Volume 1, Number 14 explains basic principles for
suspending loudspeaker systems and provides further references.
Safety
Factors and Load Ratings
S.A.F.E. hardware is designed, engineered, and certified with a 6:l safety ratio (i.e. if the array weighs 300 lbs the
support structure must be capable of at least 1800 lbs).
Correct use of this hardware is required for secure array
construction. Model 4892 loudspeakers with truss module have been pull tested and rated at 5200 pounds break
strength, with a 6:I safety factor each 75 pound enclosure can support a working load of 866 pounds (a vertical
array of 10). The working load ratings of other components are: connecting bar - 1387; shackle mount - 496 Ibs;
stacking bracket 427 lbs; quick release pin - 1783 Ibs. As an example of how to use these numbers, we can
calculate how many 4892 enclosures can be suspended from one pair (two) shackle mounts. The working load
rating for each shackle mount is 496 lbs; each 4892 weighs 75 lbs with two truss modules; if each shackle mount
supports one half the array, the maximum number of enclosures that can be supported is:
(2 x 496 Ibs) ii 75 lbs
= 13 Careful calculations should be performed to ensure that all components are used within their rated R-ork
load before the array is suspended. Remember: the weakest component determines the size and safety of the
entire arrav! CAUTION! Before suspending any array always inspect all components of the array (enclosure,
truss module, threaded fasteners, connecting hardware, and lifting hardware) for cracks, deformations, corrosion,
missing or damaged parts that could reduce strength and safety of the array.
Use only load rated hardware.
Building structural supports and hoist motors.require inspection prior to each use by knowledgeable professionals Never exceed maximum recommended load ratings.
Components and Array Construction
The S.A.F.E. series of modular flying hardware eliminates the cost and bulk of large custom designed fly bars. Five
basic items- truss module, connecting bar, shackle mount, stacking bracket, and quick release pins- easily
combine to assemble a rigid array. Truss modules attach to the loudspeaker top and or bottom (we recommend
both) using its internal steel braces, the connecting bars then join the truss modules using quick release pins.
Lifting points for the array are created by attaching shackIe mounts to the truss modules with the release pins.
Straight vertical arrays are formed by connecting one top truss to a bottom truss using a stacking bracket, curved
vertical arrays are created using multiple shackle mounts as shown later. All assembly is made with quick release
pins for positive, easy connections. ALL QUICK RELEASE PINS MUST BE FULLY INSERTED FOR POSITIVE
LOCKING. Figure 1 shows a simple array of two 4892 loudspeakers with the S.A.F.E. hardware required to
connect them for “flying”. Note two connector bars are used top and bottom at rear of array. This is the preferred way to connect an array together.
QUICK RELEASE PIN
CONNECTING BAR
\
’ TRUSS MODULE
Figure 1
, SHACKLE MOUNT
TRUSS MODULE
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Figures 2a and 2b show two methods of coupling for vertical arrays. Table 1 indicates the number of each
component required for listed array types.
straightArray
STACKING
BRACKET r
Figure 2a
Curved Array
LOCKING STEEL
Hardware Type
4SF-LSC
Array Configurations
Table 1
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Array Design and Applications
This section contains “tilt” guides showing the amounts of vertical “splay” angle available for different arrays by
selecting various combinations shackle mount and lift point locations. Since the arrays shown in these examples
are suspended by a single point, guy lines will be required to stabilize the array from rotating.
Tilt Guide for 1 x 2 Array
Table 1 shows range of possible angles with shackle mount extending toward front of cabinet, Table 2 with
shackle mount extending toward rear of cabinet. A +5” to -28” range of aim angles are available from a single
hang point.
..J
Tilt angles for selected holes
pJ$$
Table 1
1 c 1 -12O
1 -16” 1
Table 2
-21O
Direction of Shackle
Mount on Truss
I
Location of Shackle
Mount on Array
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Tilt Guide for 1 x 3 Array (Note this configuration requires ASF-CB12 /
30)
L
Tables 1 and 2 show tilt with lift points facing front and rear, located on outside truss rails providing a range of
aim angles from +12’ to
3 and 4 show tilt with lift points located on inside truss rails closer to the center of gravity resulting in a wider
range of aim angles (+15” to -20’). Generally this would be a better choice. Position 1 does not allow clearance
for shackle mount and is noted no connection (NC). Using the inside location also increases the load angle
efficiency, reducing sling tension. (See page 8, JBL Technical Notes Vol. 1, Number
.
Tilt angles for selected holes
+25’
All locations are behind the center of gravity resulting in down firing arrays. Tables
14)
+
Direction of Shackle
Mount on Truss
Location of Shackle
Mount on Array
A
1
I
1
B
1 NC 1
1 C 1
Table 1
Table 2
NC
NC
Table
NC
I
1
1
+lj”
+lO’
+5”
3
-15”
I
1
1
1
+lo”
+5’
0'
-20’
[01~10]
1 2 3
I
I’l~TnJ
1 2 3
]
Table 4
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Tilt Guide for 1 x 4 Array
Tables 1 and 2 show tilt with lift points facing front and rear, located on outside truss rails. Four cabinets create a
180” array that results in all locations on a common line behind the center of gravity. Tables 3 and 4 show tilt with
lift points located on inside truss rails closer to the center of gravity resulting in a wider range of options. This is a
better choice. Position 1 does not allow clearance for shackle mount and is noted no connection (NC). Aim angle
options range from +lO” to -12”
Tilt angles for selected holes
1 2
A -25’
B -25”
C -25”
1
A
NC
B
NC
C NC
-25” -25”
-25”
-25”
Table 1
Table 2
+14”
+lo”
Table
-25”
-25’
2
+10”
+7”
3
3
3
+6”
+2O
Direction of Shackle
Mount on Truss
-
y&gF i+GEp-J
=?=R=
-
FRONT OF
CABINET
I~M-+-+!a
ABC
p
1 2 3
Location of Shackle
Mount on Array
CBA
pG$J
Table 4
[Old $ +cni
1 2 3
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Tilt Guides for multi-tiered Arrays
Four examples of curved arrays are shown, each with a different suspension location, noted by heavy black dots.
Application notes are included. To calculate vertical coverage add 18” to the positive tilt angle and 18’ to the
negative tilt angle (disregard the “-I’ sign). If both aim angles are negative, add
36”
to the difference.
Tilt Guide for
towards front)
This configuration offers less difference in aim angles between the two tiers (+7” to -12O). Any options chosen
from Tables 1 and 2 will result in higher SPL, with more lobing.
Tilt angles for selected holes Direction of Shackle Location of Shackle
2 x 2 Array - (Suspended from holes 1 -A, shackle mounts connecting top tier to lower one are
Mount on Truss Mount on top Array
1
I
C
1 A 1 +7” 1 +2’
B
C
1 2 I 3
+3O
1 2
+2O
-3” -7”
+5”
Table 1
-3”
Table 2
I
+7O
3
I
-4”
I
-8”
-12O
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Tilt Guide for 2 x 2 Array -
towards rear.)
(Suspended from holes 1 - A, shackle mounts connecting top tier to lower one are
This configuration has many useful applications.
lower tier has a -8” to -30” range of aim angles.
The upper tier can be rotated between +6” and +12’, while the
Using locations 3- A from both Tables will provide a seamless
vertical coverage angle of 78” with minimal lobing.
Tilt angles for selected holes
Direction of Shackle
Mount on Truss
-
ABC
Suspended
holes 1 - A
Location of Shackle
Mount on top Array
from
C
+6’
+8’
+10”
fibk 1
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Tilt Guide for 2 x 2 Array -
(Suspended from holes 3 -A, connecting shackle mounts towards rear)
All connecting locations are behind each tier’s center of gravity which allows only negative aiming angles. A
vertical coverage angle of
56”
is possible. This array would provide good high power front fill in many applica-
tions.
+
Tilt angles for selected holes
Table 1
1 2
I
A
B -15”
C -10” -15”
I I
-20” -24” -28”
-20” -24”
-20”
Direction of Shackle Location of Shackle
Mount on Truss Mount on top Array
Suspended from
holes
3 -
A
rob+++u]
1 2 3
1
3
Table 2
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Tilt Guide for 2 x 2 Array -
(Suspended from holes 3 - C, connecting shackle mounts towards rear)
The top tier of this array can be aimed directly horizontal, while the lower tier can have an aim angle of -28” for a
vertical coverage angle of 64”. This array could be very useful for applications requiring balcony coverage and
down fill.
.
Tilt angles for selected holes
Table 1
Direction of Shackle
Mount on Truss
Location of Shackle
Mount on top Array
Page 11
JBL Professional
8500 Balboa Boulevard, PO. Box 2200
Northridge, California 91329 U.S.A.
H
A Harman International Company
74599
6B22soo
P1119
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