JBL VT4886-HB User Manual

VT4886-HB HORIZONTAL BRACKET

FOR VERTEC SUBCOMPACT SYSTEMS

USER GUIDE

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that
produce heat.

9. Only use attachments / accessories specified by the manufacturer.

10. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart / apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.

11. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

12. Do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

13. Hearing damage, prolonged exposure to excessive SPL: the loudspeaker is easily capable of
generating sound pressure levels (SPL) sufficient to cause permanent hearing damage to performers,
production crew and audience members. Caution should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to SPL in
excess of 90 dB.

PRECAUTIONS

The VerTec series speakers covered by this manual are not intended for use in high moisture
environments. Moisture can damage the speaker cone and surround and cause corrosion of electrical
contacts and metal parts. Avoid exposing the speakers to direct moisture. Keep speakers out of extended
or intense direct sunlight. The driver suspension will prematurely dry out and finished surfaces may be
degraded by long-term exposure to intense ultra-violet (UV).

Vertec Subcompact Series speakers can generate considerable energy. When placed on a slippery
surface such as polished wood or linoleum, the speaker may move due to its acoustical energy output.
Precautions should be taken to assure that the speaker does not fall off a stage or surface on which it is
placed.

STAND MOUNTING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

The VT4886-HB includes a pole mount adapter to allow mounting on tripod stands or on an extension rod
(pole) over subwoofers. When using stands or poles, be sure to observe the following precauti ons:

• Check the stand or pole specification to be certain the device is designed to support the weight of
the speaker. Observe all safety precautions specified by the manufacturer.

• Always verify that the stand (or subwoofer/pole) is placed on a flat, level and stable surface and
be sure to fully extend the legs of tripod type stands. Position the stand so that the legs do not
present a trip hazard.

• Route cables so that performers, production crew, and audience will not trip and topple the
speakers.

• Inspect the stand (or pole and associated hardware) before each use and do not use equipment
with worn, damaged, or missing parts.

• Do not attempt to place more than four VT4886 loudspeakers on a stand or pole

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• When mounting VT4886 loudspeakers on a pole or tripod, integral suspension hardware must be
used to secure the speakers to each other. Only the correct quick release pins and hardware
supplied by JBL are to be used.

• Always be cautious when deploying the system outdoors. Unexpected winds may topple a
system. It may be necessary to place additional weight (e.g., sandbags) on the base of the stand
to improve stability. Avoid attaching banners or similar items to any part of a speaker system.
Such attachments could act as a sail and topple the system.

• Unless you are confident that you can handle the weight of the speaker, ask another person to
help you get it onto the tripod stand or pole. Alternatively, assemble the system face down on the
ground and rotate the entire system to a vertical orientation.

• Using the VT4886-HB, up to four VT4886 cabinets may be mounted on a JBL SS2-BK tripod
stand or with the SS4-BK or SS5-BK adjustable pole (extension rod) to a companion VT4883
subwoofer.

SUSPENSION OF LOUDSPEAKER SYSTEM

Before attempting to suspend your JBL loudspeakers, read and understand the following safety
information.

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING!

The information in this section has been assembled from recognized engineering data and is intended for
informational purposes only. None of the information in this section should be used without first obtaining
competent advice with respect to applicability to a given circumstance. None of the information presented
herein is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making use of this
information assumes all liability arising from such use.

All information presented herein is based upon materials and practices common to North America and
may not directly apply to other countries because of differing material dimensions, specifications, and/or
local regulations. Users in other countries should consult with appropriate engineering and regulatory
authorities for specific guidelines.

Correct use of all included hardware is required for secure system suspension. Careful calculations
should always be performed to ensure that all components are used within their working load limits before
the array is suspended. Never exceed the maximum recommended load ratings.

Before suspending any speaker system always inspect all components (enclosure, rigging frames, pins,
eyebolts, track fittings, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, missing, loose or damaged parts that
could reduce strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend the speaker until the proper corrective
action has been taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending JBL suspendable loudspeaker
models.

ARE YOU NEW TO RIGGING?

If you are new to rigging, you should do the following:

• Read and study JBL Technical Note Volume 1, Number 14: Basic Principles for Suspending
Loudspeaker Systems (available at http://www.jblpro.com/pub/technote/tn_v1n14.pdf

• Know the rules for safe rigging.

• Attend a safe rigging seminar, such as that presented by professionals like Rigging Seminars™

(www.riggingseminars.com) or by Chain Motor Hoist manufacturers like Columbus McKinnon Corp.
(manufacturers of the C/M Lodestar).

• Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Get in the habit of
asking them questions instead of guessing about their answers. Learn from what they tell you.

• Meet and discuss this aspect of your business with your Insurance Agent.

• Research and understand the codes, practices, and requirements in the venues where you intend to

operate your sound system.

)

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GENERAL HARDWARE INFORMATION

Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load rated for the intended use.
Generally, this type of hardware is available from rigging supply houses; industrial supply catalogs and
specialized rigging distributors. Local hardware stores do not usually stock these products. Hardware that
is intended for overhead suspension will comply with ASME B30.20 and will be manufactured under
product traceability controls. Compliant hardware will be referenced with a working load limit (WLL) and a
traceability code.

ATTACHMENT TO STRUCTURES

A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of attachment to the structure
prior to the installation of any overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided
to the Professional Engineer for design purposes; Uniform Building Code as applicable, Municipal
Building Code as applicable, and Seismic Code as applicable.

The installation of the hardware and method of attachment must be carried out in the manner specified by
the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in damage, injury or death.

INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

Suspension systems are comprised of mechanical devices and, as such, they require regular inspection
and routine maintenance to ensure proper function ability. Before suspending or pole mounting any
speaker system always inspect all components (enclosure, suspension frames or brackets, pins,
eyebolts, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, missing, loose or damaged parts that could reduce
strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend or pole mount the speaker until the proper corrective
action has been taken.

Installed systems should be inspected at least annually. The inspection shall include a visual survey of all
corners and load bearing surfaces for signs of cracking, water damage, de-lamination, or any other
condition that may decrease the strength of the loudspeaker enclosure.

Accessory suspension hardware provided with or for JBL VT4886 and VT4883 loudspeakers must be
inspected for fatigue at least annually or as required by local ordinance. The inspection shall include a
visual survey of the material for signs of corrosion, bending or any other condition that may decrease the
strength of the fastener. Additionally, any eyebolts shall be checked for possible spin-out of the enclosure.

For all other hardware and fittings, refer to the hardware manufacturer's inspection and
maintenance guidelines for process.

JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information
for any purpose. Furthermore, JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding
compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or any other abuse.

Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained and experienced in suspending speaker systems
should inspect all parts and components.

RESOURCES

Adaptive Technologies Group McMaster Carr

562.424.1100 Various Locations in the USA

1635 E. Burnett Street For a location near you, visit
Signal Hill, CA 90755 them at www.mcmaster.com
www.adapttechgroup.com

JBL Professional - Tech Note Vol. 1 No. 14
“Basic Principles for Suspending Loudspeakers”

www.jblpro.com/catalog/support/getfile.aspx?docid=296&doctype=3

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