Rev. 2.01
Operation manual
C Series:
Installation-Dedicated Amplifiers
• C 68:4
• C 48:4
• C 28:4
• C 16:4
Part no. UM-CS
2 C Series Operation Manual
1 CONTENTS .................................................................................................................................................2
2 APPROVALS ................................................................................................................................................4
3 WARNINGS .................................................................................................................................................4
3.1 Explanation of graphical symbols ........................................................................................................4
3.1.1 WARNING ................................................................................................................................4
3.1.2 CAUTION..................................................................................................................................4
3.2 Important Safety Instructions ..............................................................................................................4
3.3 User responsibility ...............................................................................................................................5
3.3.1 Mains connection grounding ....................................................................................................5
3.3.2 Speaker output hazard ..............................................................................................................5
3.3.3 Radio interference ....................................................................................................................5
3.3.4 Speaker damage .......................................................................................................................5
3.3.5 Maintenance .............................................................................................................................5
4 WELCOME ...................................................................................................................................................6
4.1 Introduction ..........................................................................................................................................6
4.2 Main Features ......................................................................................................................................6
4.2.1 Class TD amplifier and regulated switch-mode power supply .................................................6
4.2.2 Amplifier gain ...........................................................................................................................6
4.2.3 Voltage Peak Limiter .................................................................................................................7
4.2.4 Protection and performance optimization ................................................................................
7
4.2.5
NomadLink / Ethernet control and monitoring network ...........................................................7
5 INSTALLATION ...........................................................................................................................................8
5.1 Unpacking ............................................................................................................................................
8
5.2 Mounting .............................................................................................................................................8
5.3
Cooling .................................................................................................................................................8
5.4 Operating voltage ................................................................................................................................8
5.5 Grounding ............................................................................................................................................9
6 QUICK GUIDE OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................................
10
6.1 Front Panel overview .........................................................................................................................10
6.1.1 Power on/off and remote switch ............................................................................................10
6.1.2 Front Panel LED’s ...................................................................................................................10
6.2 Rear Panel overview ..........................................................................................................................11
6.2.1 The DIP switch features ......................................................................................................... 11
6.3 NomadLink / Ethernet network setup ................................................................................................12
7 OPERATION AND PERFORMANCE ........................................................................................................
14
7.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................14
7.2 Operation precautions .......................................................................................................................14
7.3 Signal flow and headroom .................................................................................................................14
7.3.1 Signal flow blocks ...................................................................................................................14
7.3.2 Headroom, sensitivity and VPL / Gain settings ......................................................................15
7.4 Audio Input and Output connections, setup and features .................................................................16
7.4.1 Balanced / Unbalanced Input connection ...............................................................................16
1 CONTENTs
C Series Operation Manual 3
7.4.2 Output operation and connection ...........................................................................................16
7.4.3 Output bridge mode ...............................................................................................................
16
7.4.4 Amplifier Gain .........................................................................................................................17
7.4.4.1 Channel gain / Level (front panel pots) ..........................................................................17
7.4.4.2 Amplifier sensitivity .......................................................................................................17
7.4.5 Output Voltage Peak Limiter (VPL) .........................................................................................17
7.4.6 Constant Voltage 70 V and 100 V systems setup and operation ............................................18
7.4.7 Current Peak Limiter, (CPL) ....................................................................................................18
7.5 Protection, faults and warnings .........................................................................................................
18
7.5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................18
7.5.2 Safe Operating Area Detector (SOAD) ...................................................................................18
7.5.3 Very High Frequency protection .............................................................................................18
7.5.4 DC protection .........................................................................................................................
19
7.5.5 Hi impedance warning (open load) .........................................................................................19
7.5.6 Lo impedance protection (short circuit) ..................................................................................19
7.5.7 Temperature protection ..........................................................................................................20
7.5.8 Power Average Limiter (PAL) .................................................................................................20
7.5.9 Soft Start ................................................................................................................................20
7.6 Front panel monitoring and adjustments ...........................................................................................21
7.6.1 Level indicators .......................................................................................................................21
7.6.2 Level adjust ............................................................................................................................21
7.6.3 Mute indication .......................................................................................................................21
7.6.4 Performance, Warning and Fault indicators........................................................................... 22
7.7 NomadLink network and PC editor ....................................................................................................23
7.7.1 NomadLink network in the amplifiers ....................................................................................23
7.7.2 Connection and setup.............................................................................................................23
7.7.3 NomadLink network cable lengths .........................................................................................24
7.7.4 Ethernet network cable lengths .............................................................................................25
7.7.5 DeviceControl editor ...............................................................................................................25
8 APPENDIX .................................................................................................................................................26
8.1 Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................
26
8.2 FAQ ....................................................................................................................................................26
8.3 Bench test the amplifier ....................................................................................................................26
8.4 Additional documentation ..................................................................................................................27
8.5 BTU specifications .............................................................................................................................28
9 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................
30
10
WARRANTY ..............................................................................................................................................32
CONTENTs 1
4 C Series Operation Manual
This equipment conforms to the requirements of the EMC directive 89/336/EEC, amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/ EEC and the
requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 7 3/23/EEC, amended by 93/68 /EEC.
Standards applied: EMC Emission EN 55103-1, E3
EMC Immunity EN55103-2, E3, with S/ N below 1% at normal operation level.
Electrical Safety EN60065, Class I
This equipment is tested and approved according to the U.S . safety standard ANSI/ UL 60 065 and Canadian safety standard CSA
C22. 2 NO. 60065. E TL made the tests and they are a Nationally Recognized Testing L aborator y (NRTL).
3.1 Explanation of graphical symbols
The lightning symbol within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of un -insulated “dangerous voltage” within the amplifier’s
enclosure that may be of suf ficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans.
The exclamation point within a triangle is intended to aler t the user to presence of impor tant operating and service instructions in the literature
accompanying the product.
3.1.1 WARNING 3.1.2 CAUTION
3.2 Important Safety Instructions
Before using your amplifier, be sure to carefully read the applicable items of these operating instructions and the safety suggestions
Keep this manual for future reference.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this unit near water.
Do not spill water or other liquids into or on the unit. Do not operate the amplifier while wet or standing in liquid.
Clean only with dr y cloth.
Do not block the air intake or exhaust ports. Install the unit in accordance with the instructions.
Do not operate the amplifier near heat producing devices such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus that produce heat. Always
operate the unit with the chassis ground wire connected to the electrical safety earth. Do not defeat the safety purpose of a grounding-type plug. A
grounding type plug has two pins and a third grounding prong. The third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Connect only to AC power outlets rated 100-120 V or 200-240 V, 50-60 Hz.
Do not use this amplifier if the power cord is broken or frayed. P rotect the power cord from being walked upon or pinched particularly at the plugs
and the point where it exits from the apparatus.
Only use accessories specified by the manufacturer.
The unit is intended to use in a 19” rack. Follow the mounting instructions. When a rack on wheels is used, use caution when moving the loaded
rack to avoid injury from tipping over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Do not connect an amplifier output in parallel or series with any other ampli fier’s output. Do not connect the amplifier output to any other voltage
source, such as batter y, mains source, or power supply, regardless of whether the amplifier is turned on or of f.
Do not run the output of any amplifier back into another channel’s input.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way such as:
Power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
Liquid has been spilled into the unit
An object has fallen into the unit
The unit has been exposed to rain or moisture
The unit does not operate normally
The unit was dropped or the enclosure is damaged
17. Do not remove top or bottom covers. Removal of the covers will expose hazardous voltages. There are no user serviceable parts inside and
removal may void the warrant y.
18. An experienced user shall always supervise this professional audio equipment, especially if inexperienced adults or minors are using th
equipment.
19. The mains plug is used as the disconnec t device and shall remain readily operable. If mounted in a 19" rack causing the mains plug not being
readily operable, the mains plug for the entire rack must be readily operable.
20. The US N ational Differencescl.16.3 requires that NomadLinknet work cables must be flame rated VW-1.
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2 APPROVALs
To reduce risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
apparatus to rain or moisture.
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not remove
screws. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified service personnel
3 WARNINGs
C Series Operation Manual 5
WARNINGs 3
3.3 User responsibility
3.3.1 Mains connection grounding
Your amplifier must be connected to a
grounded socket outlet.
3.3.2 Speaker output hazard
Power amplifiers are capable of producing
hazardous output voltages. To avoid electrical
shock, do not touch any exposed speaker wiring
while the amplifier is operating. The external wiring
connected to the speaker terminals shall be installed
by a qualified instructed person or ready-made leads
or cords of appropriate capacity shall be used.
3.3.3 Radio interference
As the amplifier outputs produce high voltage,do
not connect or disconnect speaker cables when
the mains power is on. Also, attach the safety cover
on the speaker terminals for safe operation and to
comply with electrical product approvals.
A sample of this product has been tested and complies
with the limits for the European Electro Magnetic
Compatibility (EMC) directive. This equipment has
also been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference
from electrical equipment. This product uses radio
frequency energy and if not used or installed in
accordance with these operating instructions, may
cause interference to other equipment, such as radio
receivers. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment on and off, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
Connect the equipmnt into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
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Check if the affected unit complies with the EMC
limits for immunity, (CE-labeled). If not, address
the problem with the manufacturer or supplier.
All electrical products sold in the EC must be
approved for immunity against electromagnetic fields, high voltage flashes, and radio interference.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/T V
technician for help.
3.3.4 Speaker damage
Your amplifier is very powerful and can be
potentially dangerous to both loudspeakers and
humans alike. Many loudspeakers can be easily
damaged or destroyed by overpowering, especially
with the high power available from a bridged
amplifier.
Always check the speaker’s continuous and peak
power capabilities.
Even if though the amplifier’s front panel attenuators
can be used to reduce the gain, it is still possible to
reach full output power if the input signal level is
high enough.
3.3.5 Maintenance
For long-term and safe operation it is recommended
that the amplifier dust filters on the front panel, as
well as the inside of the amplifier is cleaned regularly.
If the dust filters and inside are not maintained there
will be safety risks. For example the amplifier can
ignite the dust and a fire will occur due to high internal
temperatures. There is also a risk that the amplifier
will malfunction since the amplifier is dependent
of constant airflow from front to rear. If the dust
filters are not clean and the amplifier malfunctions,
any resultant problems will not be covered by the
warranty.
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6 C Series Operation Manual
4 WELCOME
4.1 Introduction
Thank you for choosing Lab.gruppen C Series power
amplifiers for your sound reinforcement system
installation. We are confident that you will be
very pleased with the performance, configuration
flexibility, reliability, and long-term durability offered
by the C Series products.
This manual provides a comprehensive guide to the
features and functionality of C Series amplifiers.
Please read through it in its entirely to become fully
acquainted with the many configuration options and
multiple layers of protection circuitry.
To facilitate timely installation and use of this C Series
product, we have included a Quick Guide Overview
(section 6). This brief summary, in conjunction with
Installation (section 5), contains the basic information
needed to safely install the amplifier and place it in
service. However, we highly recommend reading
through this manual in its entirety, beginning with
Main Features and Technologies and continuing
through Operation and Performance. As you become
thoroughly familiar with all aspects of operation, you
may learn of features or options that will affect your
choices on amplifier modes or loudspeaker system
configuration.
Thank you again for placing your confidence in
Lab.gruppen power amplifiers.
Lab.gruppen C Series power amplifiers are designed
and built specifically for the unique demands of
permanent installation applications. C Series
amplifiers offer the optimum combination of highquality audio reproduction, flexible features, ease of
installation, and 100% reliability in normal use.
By packing four channels of reconfigurable power
amplification into a 2U chassis, the C Series achieves
unprecedented “power density.” The benefits of
compact dimensions include reduced rack space
requirements and minimal heat build-up. The flexible
output stages enable each amplifier channel to be set
for either low impedance or constant voltage (70 V /
100 V) mode. NomadLink, an easy-to-use network for
monitoring and control, is implemented as a standard
feature on all C Series amplifiers.
Although C Series features and facilities are tailored
to installation applications, at the heart of each
amplifier is the same advanced technology that has made
Lab.gruppen the benchmark of quality for touring
concert systems: exceptional sonic performance,
rugged construction, proven reliability, and protection
features that anticipate every unwelcome possibility.
Read on to learn.
4.2 Main Features
Superficially, your new C Series amplifier may
appear similar to other products made for the same
purpose. On closer inspection, however, you will find
a number of sophisticated technologies – many of
them proprietary to Lab.gruppen – that are provided
to ensure the best possible performance and many
years of reliable operation. Familiarizing yourself with
these technologies will prove invaluable in setting up
and optimizing your loudspeaker system.
4.2.1 Class TD amplifier and regulated switch-
mode power supply
Lab.gruppen’s patented Class TD technology
combines the exceptional efficiency of a Class D
amplifier with the high sonic quality associated with
Class B designs. Class TD also incorporates the same
basic concepts behind Class H designs, but here they
are refined and pushed to a higher level to achieve
much greater efficiency.
The Class TD output sections work in concert with
Lab.gruppen’s unique, regulated switch-mode power
supply to create a superior overall power amplifier
topology. The regulated PSU ensures stable, full
output power over an extremely wide range of mains
voltage levels. Sagging or fluctuating mains voltage
will not affect the power output delivered to the
loudspeakers.
4.2.2 Amplifier gain
For greater flexibility in system integration, C Series
amplifiers allow gain adjustment from +23 dB to +44
dB in 3 dB steps. This feature accommodates any
combination of input device and loudspeaker type.
For example, if the input signal is weak, the gain can
be boosted to maintain maximum power output while
C Series Operation Manual 7
avoiding a poor signal-to-noise ratio. This gain adjust
ment feature makes it easier to achieve an optimal
balance between headroom and noise floor.
4.2.3 Voltage Peak Limiting
The Voltage Peak Limiting (VPL) feature allows user
adjustments that determine maximum voltage output,
thus matching the amplifier to the connected speaker
load. Whether the connected load is low impedance
(8, 4 or 2 ohms) or high impedance (70 V / 100 V),
the VPL feature can be set to ensure that neither
temperature nor current limitations are exceeded
before reaching the desired voltage threshold.
4.2.4 Protection and performance
optimization
Appropriate and reliable power amplification is vital
to any audio system. Inadequate or faulty power
amplification could cause damage to the loudspeakers,
or in some cases to the power amplifiers themselves.
To prevent any damage or costly service interruptions, C Series amplifiers offer advanced features
to protect both internal circuits and any connected
loads. These features even protect the mains fuse
that, in extreme cases, could be overloaded.
Following are short descriptions of standard built-in
C Series protection features:
CPL, Current Peak Limiter ensures that the
amplifier’s output does not exceed the safe
current handling parameters of amplifier
components.
Temperature protection ensures that the
amplifier will not be damaged by exceeding
thermal limits.
PAL, Power Average Limiter limits the maximum
average power consumption according to the
power supply and mains-breaker capabilities.
VHF, Very High Frequency protection circuits
mute the output of the amplifier when nondynamic continuous signals above 10 kHz are
detected.
DC protection ensures destructive DC signals
will not appear at the amplifier outputs. If such
conditions occur an internal fuse opens and fault
indication is displayed.
Low impedance (short circuit) protection
provides a fault warning indication and shuts
down the output stage when, for example, an
input signal is present and a malfunctioning cable
or driver is short circuiting the output.
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High impedance warning reports an alert when
at the same time output signal is high, simultaneously, and no current draw is measured. This
situation might occur when no speakers are
connected, or when a driver is blown.
Low inrush current ensures that the mains
breaker will not trip when several power
amplifiers are turned on simultaneously.
4.2.5 NomadLink / Ethernet control and
monitoring network
The NomadLink network allows easy setup and
control of C Series power amplifiers and other
devices. The patented network topology allows
automatic detection and addressing of multiple
amplifiers, and is controlled from a PC via a bridge
(NLB 60E) using standard TCP/IP communication.
Phantom powering through the network cables
allows the software to detect devices that are not
currently turned on or connected to the mains. This
ensures very high reliability and redundancy levels
while allowing connected amplifiers to remain on
standby with no power consumption.
Cable connections can be daisy-chained for
easier system setup. This also reduces total
component costs, simplifies installation, and makes
daily operation more convenient. There is no need to
create a star topology using many switches as with,
for example, an Ethernet system. Individual amplifier
addresses do not need to be manually entered. You
will automatically know where an individual amplifier
resides in the network.
A daisy chain network-loop, in combination with
the automatic addressing of devices, enables
Lab.gruppen’s proprietary DeviceControl editor
software to automatically create a precise picture of all
connected devices and their relative position in the
chain. This is the key to creating a quick overview
of the system layout, allowing simple operation of a
large group of amplifiers. Installation time is kept to
a minimum, and fast access is provided to monitor
performance and solve problems during operation.
Via NomadLink, you can monitor all metering data
as well as all faults and warning indications simultaneously. NomadLink also allows you to remotely
control power on and power off, as well as engage
Mute and Solo functions on individual channels.
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WELCOME 4
8 C Series Operation Manual
5.1 Unpacking
Carefully open the shipping carton and check for any
noticeable damage. Every Lab.gruppen amplifier is
tested and inspected before leaving the factory and
should arrive in perfect condition. If any damage
is discovered, please notify the shipping company
immediately. Only the consignee may institute a
claim with the carrier for damage incurred during
shipping. Save the carton and packing materials for
the carrier’s inspection. Should you ever need to
ship the amplifier, always use the original packaging
materials.
5.2 Mounting
The amplifier is two rack units high (2U) and will fit
into a standard EIA 19” rack.
The depth is 343 mm (13.5”).
The weight is approximately 12 kg (26.4 lbs.) depending on model type.
Free airflow from front to rear of the amplifier must
be possible. Therefore, no doors or rack-lids should
be mounted in front of or behind the amplifiers.
Amplifiers may be stacked directly on top of each
other. There is no need for spacing in between units,
though this might enable more convenient installation
of cabling on the rear-panel.
It is recommended that rear supports be mounted
for maximum long-term stability.
5.3 Cooling
The amplifier uses a forced-air cooling system
with air flow from front to rear, maintaining a low
operating temperature within defined limits. Front-torear airflow is preferred as cooler air is present at the
front in nearly all installed applications. (This allows
higher continuous power levels without encountering
thermal problems.) Never attempt to reverse the
airflow. The amplifier modules require a pressure
chamber between the fans and heatsink, and this
effect functions only in one direction.
Make sure that there is an adequate air supply in front
of the amplifier, and that the rear of the amplifier has
sufficient space to allow the exhaust to escape. If
the amplifier is rack-mounted, do not use covers or
doors on the front or rear of the rack.
Should a heat sink overheat, the temperature
sensing circuits will mute the overheating channel.
If the power supply overheats, another sensing
circuit will mute all output channels until the power
supply cools to safe operating temperature. An early
warning before shut down will be indicated on the
front panel LEDs, and a warning will be sent through
the NomadLink network.
Always make sure that the dust-filters behind the
detachable front panel are clean to ensure maximum
possible airflow.
If the amplifier malfunctions due to dirty
dust filters, any required repairs are not
covered by the warranty.
To calculate the maximum heat emission value, when
installing the amplifiers in rooms with an air-conditioning system, please refer to the BTU specifications
provided in the Appendix section.
5.4 Operating voltage
The label placed to the right of the mains
cable on the rear of the amplifier indicates the
AC mains voltage for which the amplifier is wired
and approved: 115 V or 230 V. Connect the power
cable only to the AC source type referred to on the
label. The warranty will not cover damage caused by
connecting to an incorrect type of AC mains.
Lab.gruppen switch mode amplifiers use primary
switching. Because the mains power is rectified
directly in front of the transformer, the amplifier is
insensitive to mains frequency. It may be connected
to 50 or 60Hz sources, and actually will operate on
line frequencies from DC to 400 Hz.
If the power plug mounted at the factory is not
appropriate for your country, it can be removed and
the proper connector wired in its place as follows.
BLACK or BROWN LIVE
WHITE or BLUE NEUTRAL
GREEN or GREEN/ YELLOW EARTH(GROUND)
Warning: If you are not 100% confident of your
competence to replace the mains plug, engage
qualified personnel to do the job.
Once a suitable AC supply is connected, the
5 INsTALLATION
C Series Operation Manual 9
amplifier can be turned on using the front panel
power switch. The amplifier then goes through a
soft-start sequence as it self-checks its circuits. The
fans will blow at high speed before dropping to idle,
and the “power” LED will illuminate.
Inrush power is controlled and limited during “soft
start”, enabling multiple amplifiers to be powered up
simultaneously.
5.5 Grounding
There is no ground lift switch or terminal on the
C Series amplifiers. The signal ground is always
floating, via a resistor, to chassis and therefore the
grounding system is automatic.
In the interests of safety, never disconnect the earth
(ground) pin on the AC power cord.
Use balanced input connections to avoid hum and
interference.
INsTALL ATION 5
10 C Series Operation Manual
6 QUICK GUIDE OVERVIEW
The amplifier’s front panel presents the performance
and fault condition indicators, power and remote
switches ,and a removable dust-filter cover. Four
level potentiometers located behind the cover
provide individual attenuation for the four amplifier
channels. Range is 0 dB to - infinity. The 12 o’clock
position indicates -10 dB attenuation.
To remove the dust-filter cover, loosen the
thumbscrew at the far left. This allows removal of
the dust filters for cleaning, and provides access to
channel attenuation. The front cover may be made
“tamper resistant” by replacing the thumbscrew
with Philips head or safety Torx screw. Thread size
is M3.
6.1.1 Power on/off and remote switch
The Power on/off switch is located on the right side.
A second switch, labeled “REMOTE,” is above the
Power switch. When the Remote switch is on, the
yellow LED above it will illuminate indicating that
external power on/off commands from the NomadLink
network connection will switch the amplifier on or
off. When Remote is activated the amplifier will not
switch on until a “Power On” command is received
from the network. When the remote switch is off,
it is not possible to switch amplifier power on or off
using NomadLink network control.
6.1.2 Front panel LED’s
The front panel LED area includes the following
indicators per channel:
Temperatur e warning ( Yellow flashing )
Temperatur e mute (Yellow co nstant)
Very Hig h Frequency protection a ctive
(outpu t muted) (Yell ow)
Mute channel via Nom adLink net work
(2x Yellow )
Current P eak Limiter ( CPL) act ive (Orang e
flashin g),
CPL con stant (outp ut muted): Lo
impedance / Shor t circuit dete ction
Fault ( Yellow plus Ora nge)
Voltage Peak Limiter ( VPL) active, VPL/Clip
(Red)
-4 dB s ignal level ( Green)
-10 dB signal l evel (Green)
-4 0 dB signal le vel (Green),
Hi- Imp open lo ad detected ( Red)
Bridge mode o peration on (Yellow). Ch. A+B
or C+D bridged.
When no VPL, CPL or PAL indicators are
illuminated, the amplifier channel is able to
deliver maximum rated output power.
Common LED’s on the front panel:
Power on (Green)
Power Average Limiter active (PAL) (Red)
Option active (Yellow)
NomadLink network active (Blue).
When the network is connected, the blue
NomadLink LED will illuminate even when
mains power is not connected. NomadLink
receives phantom power from the network
supplied by the NLB 60E.
PAL
6.1 Front Panel overview
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