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9800 Martel Road
Lenoir City, TN 37772
www.ps-engineering.com
PMA8000B MP3
PMA8000B MP3
Audio Selector Panel
Marker Beacon Receiver
High-fidelity Stereo Intercom System
With internal MP3 player
Flying Never Sounded So Good! ®
Pilot’s Guide
Pilot’s Guide
and
and
Operation Manual
Operation Manual
202-890-0602 Revision 6 October 2010
Covered under one or more of the following Patent No. 4,941,187,
Oct. 2010
For units with S/N E10251 and above.
5,903,227, 6,160,496, 6,493,450
FAA-Approved: TSO C50c, C35d
EASA ETSO C50c, 2C35d
PMA8000B MP3
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This pilot guide provides detailed operating instructions for the PS
Engineering PMA8000B MP3, Audio Selector Panel/Intercom.
This publication covers the basic operating areas of the PMA8000B
MP3 systems. They are Com Transceiver Selection, Audio Selector,
Intercom, Marker Beacon Receiver, utility jack, MP3 player and the
configuration buttons.
PMA8000B MP3 controls
Power Switch (1) (EMG-Fail Safe Operation)
You turn the unit on an off by pressing the volume control on the left
side of the panel.
The power switch controls all audio selector panel functions, intercom and marker beacon receiver. The audio selections will be remembered and return to the last state when the unit is turned on.
Either when the unit is turned off, by pressing the volume control, or
if the breaker is pulled removing power, the PMA8000B MP3 is in
Fail-Safe mode. In this mode, the pilot’s headset is connected to Com
1 for transmit and receive, and connected to unswitched input #1 for
priority audio alerts. The fail safe audio will only be heard in the left
ear of a stereo headset.
Communications Transmit (XMT) Selection (2)
There are two pushbuttons associated with each communication radio.
The two lower buttons (# 2) (XMT) control which radio is selected
for transmit. The top row of pushbuttons (# 3) (RCV) allows selection
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of the received audio.
To select Com 1 or Com 2 for transmit, simply press the button on the
bottom row, next to the XMT legend. Both the bottom and top button
indicators will light, showing you that you can transit and receive on
the selected radio. The audio panel automatically selects the receiver,
and will not allow you to transmit on a radio without being able to
hear the receive audio.
Communications Receive (RCV) Selection (3)
If you want to listen to the other radio, press the upper button, in the
RCV (receive) section.
When you have a com selected for receive, it will stay selected until
you manually deselect it. For instance, if you set Com 1 for clearance
delivery and Com 2 for Ground Control, transmit on Com 1 to get
clearance, but want to contact ground you can switch between transmitters without having to re-select the receivers. In essence, switching
the mic selector will not override prior selection of Com receiver audio
If the Monitor function is activated (Function B), the audio from this
radio will be muted when the primary radio (selected for transmit) is
receiving a signal. Monitor is not active in Split mode.
Unless the audio panel is in “split” mode, the PMA8000B MP3 gives
priority to the pilot’s radio Push-To-Talk (PTT). If the copilot is
transmitting, and the pilot presses his Push-To-Talk (PTT), the pilot is
then heard over the radio. .
In TEL mode, the pilot microphone and headphones are connected to
the cell phone, but you still hear the Com radios selected. The radio
PTT will switch the mic to the selected com transceiver, and allow
continued aircraft communications to continue. (See Page 6—TEL—
for more details).
Audio Selector (4)
You select the switched navigation receivers, Nav 1, Nav 2, ADF
MKR (Marker) and Auxiliary (AUX) by pressing the desired button,
and an indicator will show you which are turned on. Pushing the button again removes that audio from the selection. The DME input (if
present) is also shared with AUX.
In SPLIT mode, only the pilot will hear selected navigation audio.
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Cockpit Speaker (6)
The SPR switch will place all
selected audio on the cockpit
speaker when this switch is selected. The speaker will carry
the audio as heard by the pilot.
Unswitched audio 1, 3 and 4 (the inputs dedicated to autopilot disconnect, altimeter warning, etc.) will come through the speaker regardless of the speaker button position.
Depending on installation, important audio annunciations such as radar altimeter or autopilot disconnect will come over the speaker even
if it is not selected, while other unswitched, but
muted inputs, such as GPS alerts, will only be present if the SPR button is selected. Consult your
professional avionics installer for these important
configuration details.
Intercom Operation
IntelliVox® VOX-Squelch
IntelliVox® is PS Engineering’s proprietary intercom squelch control.
Through the use of digital signal processors, the each individual microphone input is monitored, and opens instantly when human speech
is detected. This results in seamless conversations aboard the airplane
for crew and passengers, without annoying syllable clipping or fatigue-inducing noise.
No adjustment of the IntelliVox® squelch control is necessary. There
is no field adjustment. Through three individual signal processors, the
ambient noise appearing in all six microphones is constantly being
sampled. Non-voice signals are blocked. When someone speaks, only
their microphone circuit opens, placing their voice on the intercom.
The system is designed to block continuous tones, therefore people
humming or whistling in monotone may be blocked after a few moments.
For consistent performance, any headset microphone must be placed
within ¼-inch of your lips, preferably against them. (ref: RTCA/DO-
214, 1.3.1.1 (a)). It is important to have the microphone element parallel to your mouth, and not twisted inside the cover.
Note: For optimum microphone performance, we recommend use of a
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Microphone Muff Kit from Oregon Aero (1-800-888-6910). This
will not only optimize VOX performance, but will improve the overall clarity of all your communications.
It is also a good idea to keep the microphone out of a direct wind
path. Moving your head through a vent air stream may cause the In-
telliVox® to open momentarily. This is normal.
The IntelliVox® is designed to work with normal aircraft cabin noise
levels (70 dB and above). Therefore, it may not always recognize
speech and clip syllables in a quiet cabin, such as in the hangar, or
without the engine running. This is also normal.
Intercom Volume Control (7)
The small volume control knob adjusts the loudness of the intercom
for the pilot and copilot. It has no effect on selected radio levels, music input levels or passengers' volume level.
The larger, outer volume control knob controls intercom volume for
the passengers. It has no effect on radio or music levels.
Adjust the radios and intercom volume for a comfortable listening
level. Most general aviation headsets today have built-in volume controls; therefore, volume also can be further adjusted at the individual
headset.
Mono Headsets in Stereo Installation
The pilot and copilot positions work with stereo or mono headsets. If a monaural headset is
plugged in to a PMA8000B MP3 Stereo installation, one channel will be shorted and all passengers will lose one channel unless they
switch to the “MONO” mode on the headset.
Intercom Modes (8)
The “ICS” pushbutton switch on the left side of the panel provides
the selection of the three intercom modes. The description of the intercom mode function is valid only when the unit is not in the "Split"
mode. Then, the pilot and copilot intercom is controlled with the
Mute button.
The ICS button cycles through the intercom modes, from top to bottom and then back up, ISO, ALL, Crew, ALL, and ISO. An LED
shows the active mode .
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ISO: The pilot is isolated from the intercom and is connected only to
the aircraft radio system. He will hear the aircraft radio reception (and
sidetone during radio transmissions).
While in ISO Mode, the pilot can elect to hear music #1. First, be sure
that the ISO mode is selected. Then press and hold the TEL button,
and then hold the ICS mode button for more than one second. The
ICS indicator will blink slowly to indicate music is present in ISO.
The music muting will follow the selected modes.
The copilot and passengers will hear the music sources as configured
by the audio panel configuration Function keys. See page 11—Smart
Function Keys for more details.
A
LL: All parties will hear the aircraft radio and intercom. Crew will
hear Entertainment 1, passengers can hear Entertainment 1 or 2. During any radio or intercom communications, the music volume automatically decreases. The music volume increases gradually back to
Note: For optimum microphone performance, we recommend use of a
Microphone Muff Kit from Oregon Aero (1-800-888-6910). This will not
only optimize VOX performance, but will improve the overall clarity of
all your communications.
Headset
Manufacturer
Bose Dynamic
Electret
M87
David Clark H10-30
H10-20, H10-40
H10-13.4, 13X
H20-10X
Lightspeed All 90015
Peltor 7003
ANR Pro, 7000
Pilot 11-20, 11-90, 1776, DXL 90015
Sennheiser All 90015
Telex Airman 750, AIR4000
AIR3000, Echelon 100
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Model Part Number
90010
90015
90020
90010
90015
90015
90015
90010
90015
90010
90015
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the original level after communications have been completed.
C
REW: Pilot and copilot are connected on one intercom channel and
have exclusive access to the aircraft radios. Again, the music that the
crew and passengers will hear is determined by the Smart Function
Keys.
Marker Beacon Operation (10)
The Marker Beacon Receiver uses visual and audio indicators to alert
you when the aircraft passes over a 75 MHz transmitter.
The Blue lamp, labeled “O”, is the Outer Marker lamp and has an
associated 400-Hertz 'dash' tone. The lamp and tone will be keyed at a
rate of two tones/flashes per second when the aircraft is in the range
of the Outer Marker Beacon.
The Amber lamp, labeled “M”, is the Middle Marker lamp and is coupled with a 1300 Hertz tone. It is keyed alternately with short 'dot' and
long 'dash' bursts at 95 combinations per minute.
The White lamp, labeled “I”, is the Inner marker and has a 3000 Hertz
'dot' tone. The lamp and tone will be keyed at a rate of six times per
second.
The audio from the
Marker Beacon Receiver can be heard by
selecting the "MKR"
push-button switch. To
adjust the volume level,
there is a service adjustment located on the top of the unit.
A pushbutton is used to set the receiver sensitivity and to test the indicator lamps mute the marker audio.
Use "HI" sensitivity initially. This allows you to hear the outer
marker beacon about a mile out. Then touch the smaller MKR button
to switch into Low Sensitivity mode. “LO” sensitivity gives you a
more accurate location of the Outer Marker. Holding the MKR button
for one second activates marker test indicator, labeled "T/M" and illuminates all three lamps simultaneously to assure the lamps (internal
and external) are in working order. Test mode does not activate MM
autopilot sense output. Releasing the button returns to the last sensitivity.
Pressing the marker mode select (“T/M”) for one second will also
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cause the marker audio to mute for that beacon. The next beacon received will re-activate the audio.
Telephone (TEL) (9)
The TEL mode serves as a full duplex interface and distribution for
telephone systems such as portable cellular phones with earpiece
jacks. Pressing the TEL button connects the telephone to the users as
follows:
In ALL intercom mode, all crew and passengers will be heard on the
phone when they speak. Com and other selected radio audio is also
heard in the headsets. If the pilot or copilot pushes the radio PTT,
their mic will be transferred to the selected Com radio. The telephone
party will not hear ATC communications, and vice versa.
In CREW mode, only the pilot and copilot are
connected to the telephone. Passengers will not
hear the telephone. The pilot and copilot will also
have transmit capability on the other selected
transceiver.
In ISO intercom mode, when the PMA8000B
MP3 is in the TEL mode, the pilot position is in
the "Phone Booth." Only the pilot will hear the telephone, and only he
will be heard. He will also have access to Com 1 or 2, and will transmit on that radio using the PTT. All selected audio is provided to the
pilot.
In cases where the cellular telephone doesn’t provide sidetone, the
audio panel can be configured, by holding the TEL and ADF buttons
for more than one second, to create sidetone for you.
Split Mode
In the split mode, the pilot is on Com 1, while the copilot is able to
transmit and receive independently on Com 2. Activating the split
mode is straightforward — push both the Com 1 and Com 2 XMT
(bottom) buttons at the same time. All four indicators will come on.
Select one of the com XMT buttons to exit the split mode. It is not
possible to have the pilot on Com 2 and copilot on Com 1 in split
mode.
NOT E: Due to the nature of VHF communications signals, and
the size constraints in general aviation aircraft, it is probable
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that there will be some bleed-over in
the Split mode, particularly on adjacent
frequencies. PS Engineering makes no
warranty about the suitability of Split
Mode in all aircraft conditions.
Note: Split Mode does not turn off NAV, ADF, or AUX selected audio to pilot. However, the copilot will only hear the selected com receiver and unswitched inputs.
The crew intercom is inhibited in Split Mode, but can be turned back on by pressing
the Mute button.
Utility Jack
The 2.5 millimeter (3/32”) jack on the front of the PMA8000B MP3
has three distinct functions:
•Cell phone input
•Advisory audio input
•Music input
The use of this jack is controlled by three Smart
Function Keys (SFK) controlled from the front
panel. See Page 11—Smart Function Keys.
Cellular phone
When a cellular telephone is connected to this jack using a 2.5 mm to
2.5 mm adapter cord (PS Part Number 425-006-7026), the
PMA8000B MP3 audio panel will connect the intercom to the cell
phone when the “TEL” button is pressed (9). When the TEL mode is
off, the telephone ringer audio will be heard if it is present on the telephone’s output (ringer may be muted by radio and intercom).
Audio Advisory Input
The front jack can be used as a priority advisory input for auxiliary
systems such as a GPS terrain advisory or portable traffic watch system. To prevent radio or intercom from muting this input, press the
“Mute” button.
NOTE
The front jack is no substitute for the certified installation of alerts
such as the GPS waypoint or autopilot tones. These still must be hard
wired into the back by your installer.
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Smart Jack Function
When the PMA8000B MP3 has an active signal on music #1 input
coming in from the rear connector, or the MP3 player is active, the
front panel jack automatically becomes a Priority Advisory input, and
is heard in the crew headphones.
This input will NOT be muted by radio or intercom, if the audio input
is actively playing. Otherwise, the must should be deselected.
Music Input
When used as a music input, the front panel jack is treated as Music
#1. However, thanks to the function controls, it can be distributed to
all users, depending on the intercom mode.
Smart Function Keys (SFK)
With Virtual Tech Support, the configuration process is self-directed.
Once you’ve set up your system, you don’t need to change it again,
unless you want to. Note: VTS annunciations will be stopped by any
audio received on the com radio selected for transmit.
These functions are non-essential and non-required and as such are
only an accessory capability. They don’t affect the audio panel’s primary function as a selector panel, aircraft intercom, or marker beacon
receiver. You can’t do anything with these buttons to prevent the
PMA8000B MP3 from doing its main job.
Looking at the front panel you’ll notice that the TEL, AUX, Mute and
SPR buttons have “Function” assignments.
To use these function keys A, B, C – press and hold “Function” and
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Quick reference PMA8000B MP3 Operation
This pull-out section covers advanced operation of the
PMA8000B MP3.
Split Mode
The Split mode puts the pilot on COM 1, while the copilot can use
COM 2 independently. To enter the split mode, press both the COM 1
and COM 2 XMT buttons at the same time.
To exit, press the desired COM 1 or COM 2 XMT button.
When you activate the Split mode, the intercom is inhibited to avoid
confusion with multiple conversations. To reactivate the intercom,
press the Mute button.
Note: Split Mode does not turn off Nav, ADF, or Aux selected audio
to pilot. However, the copilot will only hear the selected com receiver
and unswitched inputs.
Telephone Operation
When the TEL button is active, the cellular telephone is added to the
intercom loop, and who is connected to the phone depends on the intercom mode.
ISO – The pilot is alone on the telephone
All – Everybody is on the telephone.
Crew – Pilot and copilot on telephone, passengers are not.
Telephone
ISO
ALL
CRW
Pilot Copilot Passengers
On phone
Not connected
Some cellular telephones do not provide sidetone (where you
hear yourself speak). You can have the PMA8000B MP3 provide sidetone by pressing the TEL and ADF buttons for more
than one second.
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Music Muting
Music source #1 (front panel jack and Music 1 input) has four muting
modes, which are announced in the headset as they are activated.
These are: Radio Mute (aircraft radio mutes music), Intercom Mute
(intercom conversation mutes music), Mute on (both radio and intercom mutes music), and Mute off (nothing interrupts music). Press the
Mute button to cycle through the modes in sequence.
Music #2 has muting on or off, and is externally controlled.
Music in pilot isolate mode
Annunciation
“Mute on” on Muted Muted
“Mute off” off
“Radio mute” off
“Intercom off Muted
The pilot can elect to listen to Music 1, even in the Pilot Isolate mode.
While in the ISO mode, press and hold the ICS mode button, and
press the TEL (function) button. The ICS indicator will blink every
few seconds to indicate this mode is active.
LED Intercom Radio
♫ ♫
♫
Muted
♫
Function Configuration
Functions A, B, and C give the PMA8000B MP3 some special capabilities.
Function A allows the passengers and crew to converse, in ALL intercom mode, without distracting the crew from radio duties. The passenger microphones are cut out from the crew when the radio is active, and the passengers never hear aircraft radios. Press TEL and
AUX buttons to activate Function A, and you will hear “Alternate
Intercom Function.” Press these buttons again to exit, and you will
hear “Standard Intercom Function.”
Function B activates a Monitor Mode. In this case, the audio from
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Function A Function B Function C
Alternate Intercom
Mode
State 1 State 2 State 1 State 2 State 1 State 2 State 3
Alternate
intercom
function
Standard
Intercom
Function
Monitor Mode Music Distribution
Monitor
on
Monitor
off
Standard
music
distribu-
Alternate
music
distribu-
Music 1
all head-
sets
the COM radio that is selected for transmit will mute the other COM
audio when it is active. Fro example, if COM 1 is selected to transmit
to ATC, but COM 2 is receiving weather information; the ATC will
mute the audio from the weather while ATC is transmitting. In Monitor mode, the RCV COM indicator will blink every few seconds as a
status indication. Monitor mode is set to off when the unit is turned
off.
Function C controls music distribution, and has three states; Standard Music Distribution, Alternate Music Distribution and Music
1 All Headsets.
Music 1 (the MP3 player or the Music 1 input on the rear connector)
can be distributed to all headsets regardless of intercom mode.
In Standard Music Distribution, Music 1 is provided to the crew, and
Music 2 is independently provided to the passengers.
In Alternate Music Distribution, Music 1 is provided to everybody in
the ALL intercom mode, and Music 2 becomes active, for the passengers only, when the intercom is in the CREW mode.
“Smart” Front Panel Jack
When music 1 is actively playing through the rear panel input, the
front jack automatically becomes an advisory audio input, and is NOT
muted by radio or intercom conversations. This is useful for connecting portable traffic or terrain alert devices. If the music 1 is NOT active, the Music mute should be deselected.
Recorder Playback
The internal recorder is always storing the audio from the radio selected for transmit. To playback the last incoming audio, hold the
RCV button for 1 second, and release. Playback of most recent message will start. To hear an earlier message, hold the COM RCV button
until playback stops again, and then press again to begin playing the
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next earlier message. Repeat until you hear the message you wanted.
Incoming new messages will stop playback, and you can then restart
the message that was playing.
Note: all messages are erased when you switch the selected transmitter.
Blinking indicators
What is blinking? How often What it means
COM 1 or COM 2 Every 1 second Pilot or copilot is transmit-
COM or COM 2 Every 3 seconds Monitor mode activated
ICS mode Every 3 seconds Pilot has music in ISO
Mute and SPR buttons
Every 1 second PA Mode active
This chart shows you what the blinking indicators mean:
MP3 Player:
MP3 ON/OFF: TEL + Nav 1
Random/Sequential TEL + Nav 2
Skip ahead TEL + MKR
Pause: TEL + ADF
Laptop transfer: Turn audio panel off. Push and hold AUX
(transfer) while turning unit on, until the laptop recognizes the
audio panel as an external drive.
USB Memory Device: Connect drive to audio panel with USB
cables. Press and hold TEL + AUX until audio panel announces
“Transferring.” Release buttons, and listen to the percentage of
the files are transferred, and then “Transfer complete” is announced.
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(Continued from page 10)
then press the desired key, Function “A” “B” or “C”.
There are three special functions. Function Button “A” is related to the
intercom function, and allows the crew to mute passengers’ intercom
feed when radios are active.
Function Button “B” is used to activate a Monitor function that mutes
the secondary communication radio audio when the primary radio (the
one selected to transmission) is active.
Function “C” control how music is distributed in your airplane.
There are two music sources available to the PMA8000B MP3. Music
1 input can be either on the front jack, the MP3 player, OR the Music
1 input at the rear connector (Pins 23 and 24, J2). Music 2 is wired into
the rear connector, only (Pins 26 and 27, J2)
The volume of the function selection annunciations and recorder playback can be adjusted through a hole on the top of the unit marked
“ANN VOL.”
Function “A”
Function “A” controls the distribution of aircraft radio within the intercom, as well as passenger intercom muting. In the “standard intercom
function” mode, aircraft radios are distributed to all, when the intercom is in the ALL mode. In CREW mode, only the pilot and copilot
positions will hear aircraft radios.
When Function A is toggled into “Alternate Intercom Function,” the
passengers will NOT hear aircraft radios, even in the All mode. In addition, when in the ALL mode, passengers will be able to converse
with the crew. However, when the aircraft radio becomes active, the
intercom audio from the passengers is muted, allowing the crew to
focus on the radio. Passengers will be able to talk to each other.
Function “B”
Function “B” turns the Monitor Function on and off. When you press
TEL and SPR, the audio will announce “Monitor on,” when activated,
and “Monitor off” when deactivated.” In addition, the RCV LED will
blink every few seconds.
When the Monitor is on, the audio from the Com that is selected for
reception only (only top LED illuminated) will be muted when the
radio that is selected to transmit becomes active.
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This function is useful if you are copying weather from AWOS on
Com 2, but have clearance delivery tuned in on Com 1. With the
monitor active, the AWOS audio will be silenced when clearance
delivery starts to speak.
NOTE: This mode is NOT remembered through power cycles, to
prevent inadvertent blocking of desired audio on your next trip.
Function “C”
Function “C” has three modes. The first allows you to either send
music 1 input to all
normal rules apply to our music inputs.
When “Music number one, all headsets” is selected, music 1
(connected through the rear jack or the MP3 player) will be distributed to all headsets and is independent of the intercom mode switch.
Therefore, even in the CREW mode, the passengers will hear Music
1, even though they will not hear the intercom or radios.
This mode allows you to use a single in-flight entertainment source
aboard, and to send it everywhere, even in crew mode. The music
muting will be normal, and follow the selected mode of the crew or
passengers.
Function “C” also allows you to configure your music to be either
independent of the intercom mode, or to make Music 2 dependent on
the intercom mode.
When you press Function “C,” again, you’ll hear, “Alternate Music
distribution.” In this case, Music 2 will be active only when the intercom is in the CREW mode, and only the passengers will hear it. It
allows the passengers to have their music source come on only when
they are not hearing the crew. If the passengers want to hear the music input through the front panel jack, the audio panel MUST be in
Alternate Music Distribution, and the intercom must be in the ALL
or ISO mode.
Press again, and you will hear “Standard Music Distribution.” In
this mode, Music 2 becomes active, and will always be presented to
the passengers on the intercom. Music 1 is only available to the pilot
and copilot. The intercom mode switch doesn’t have any affect on
the music distribution.
When the music is standard distribution, Music 1 will always go to
the pilot and copilot positions, and is never
Music 2 is always heard by the passengers, and never heard by the
intercom stations, all of the time, or have the
heard by the passengers.
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pilot and copilot.
This mode is useful if your passengers have a different interest in
entertainment or are watching a DVD, but do not want to be excluded from the intercom conversations.
Public Address Function (if enabled)
To access PA function, press the Mute and SPR buttons simultaneously. The Mute and SPR LEDs will blink to indicate the audio
panel is in PA mode. The copilot can continue to use the selected
com radio while the pilot will now be heard over the speaker. To exit
PA mode, push Mute and SPR again. PA mode is not remembered
through power cycles.
Internal Recorder System
The Intercom Recording System is a digital recording system allowing automatic storage and playback of aircraft radio traffic.
Operating as a continuous loop recorder, (first message received will
be the last heard), the recorder has 52 seconds of recording time, or
up to 8 messages. With its own built in
VOX circuit, there are no buttons to
press to start recording. The system
automatically begins to record the instant the radio becomes active. Only the
com radio selected for transmit is recorded, and only the pilot and copilot
will hear the playback audio. If the radio
becomes active during playback, the playback will stop, and it will
not record this communication.
Playback
Recording is automatic. To play back the last recorded message,
press and hold the Com Receive pushbutton associated with the selected radio transmitter for about one (1) second. You can either wait
for the message to finish playing before accessing the prior message,
or cancel the playback. To cancel the playback, press and hold the
playback button for two seconds. The next time the button is pressed
for one (1) second, the next earlier message will be heard.
The playback will stop whenever there is more incoming selected
com audio, and the message can be replayed from the beginning by
pressing the Com receive button again.
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A remote playback button may be installed.
Music Muting (6)
There are two SoftMute™ muting circuits. The front panel "Mute"
button has four modes, and controls the Mute function for music 1.
The SoftMute™ circuit will cut the music out whenever there is conversation on the radio, the intercom, or both, depending on the
“Mute” mode selected. When that conversation stops, the music returns to the previous level comfortably, over a second or so.
The mute mode functions are controlled through sequential pushes of
the Mute button, and include annunciations of the mode selected.
Mode 1 - music will mute with either intercom or radio - MUTE button is lit. Voice annunciation is "mute on."
Mode 2 - “Karaoke” mode - music will not mute except during transmissions.- MUTE LED is OFF. Annunciation is "mute off."
Mode 3 - Radio will mute music, but intercom will not mute music MUTE LED is OFF. Annunciation is "radio mute."
Mode 4 - Radio will not mute music, intercom will mute music MUTE LED is OFF. Annunciation is "intercom
mute."
The passenger’s intercom also has a SoftMute™
circuit. If the passengers hear the radio, or talk
on the intercom, the music will mute. If the audio panel is in CREW mode, then the radio reception will not affect the passenger music.
Passengers also have a Karaoke Mode. If the passengers are listening
to the music 1 input or front panel input, their Karaoke Mode is controlled by the front panel “Mute” button. If the passengers are listening to the music 2 input, their Karaoke Mode is activated by an external switch installed either in the panel, or connected to the AUX button logic output pin on the PMA8000B MP3.
Music Controls
Above the top row of buttons are icons that relate to the MP3 player
operation. Below the Shift/Function legends, you’ll see a row of blue
legends that refer to MP3 files and volume controls.
To activate these controls, you hold the “Shift Key/Hold Function,”
and press the desired button.
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Music 1 & MP3 Volume
The Music 1 and the MP3 volume PMA8000B MP3 can be adjusted
from the front panel, if desired, by pressing the combinations of keys listed.
Press Hold Function (TEL) and Vol UP (SPR) for more
than one second to increase music 1 or MP3 volume. The
volume will increase the volume three steps per second.
Press Hold Function (TEL) and Vol Down (MUTE)
form more than one second to decrease music 1 or MP3
volume. The volume will decrease the volume three steps
per second.
It will take about 12 seconds to go from minimum to
maximum volume.
MP3 Player Operation
Turn MP3 on and off- Press Shift Key (TEL) and MP3-ON/
OFF (NAV1). Audio annunciation will be "MP3 power on" or "MP3 power
off." The audio panel will always turn on with the MP3 player turned off.
To toggle sequential and random play mode, Press Shift Key (TEL) and
press Nav 2. The audio annunciation will be “MP3 random,” or MP3 sequential”
To skip to the next song, press Shift Key (TEL) and MKR.
To pause MP3 play, press Shift Key (TEL) and ADF.
File Transfer
The PMA8000B MP3 has 1 GB of internal storage. The program inside the unit will recognize and upload any compatible audio files
(.wav, .mp3, unprotected .wma) from an external source, through the
USB cable. The PMA8000B MP3 is not compatible with iTunes formats.
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Laptop transfer
Due to the transfer rate advantages, we recommend that you transfer
files from a laptop to the PMA8000B MP3 if possible. Direct USB
device transfer requires 35-40 minutes to transfer 1GB of songs; Laptops typically require 4-9 minutes for the same amount of data with
USB 2 port.
PS Engineering recommends Microsoft XP operating system or later.
1. Using the supplied 2.5 mm-to-USB cable, along with the supplied
USB-to-USB adapter cord (PS Part number 425-003-1454), connect this set of cables from the PMA8000B MP3 front panel jack
to a PC USB port.
2. With the audio panel turned off, push and hold the
”Transfer” (AUX) while powering the PMA8000B MP3 on. Hold
the button until the laptop recognizes the unit as an external drive,
and opens a dialog box.
3. When windows recognizes the PMA8000B MP3 as a removable
drive, select “Open folder to view files using Windows Explorer”
4. Create a subfolder (name it whatever you wish, like “PlaneMusic”)
on your audio panel to contain the specific music files you will
want on the airplane.
5. Copy the desired music into this folder.
6. After transfer is complete, turn the audio panel off to return to normal operation.
Transfer using USB Drive
For best results, the following procedure should be used for a USB
device when used with the PMA8000B MP3. The USB drive should be
Music File Notes:
1. PS Engineering recommends using only first quality USB Flash drives,
for consistent file transfer results.
2. The PMA8000B MP3 unit ONLY supports MP3 files (.mp3), Windows Media Files (unprotected .wma) and Wave (.wav) files. It does
not support iTunes file formats.
3. Different types of files, and different music file programs may result in
variation in the volume level of the stored music.
For more tips on MP3 files, visit www.ps-engineering.com
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reformatted before being used with the PMA8000B MP3 and only music files should be stored, in a single subfolder on the USB Device.
1. Connect the USB Drive to your PC
2. From “Start” select “My Computer” and select the external drive.
3. Right Click on the device, and select “Format. . .”
4. Select “FAT” as File system, and “Start” WARNING, this will
erase all files on this device.
5. After formatting is complete, right click
in the drive, and select “New. . . Folder”
and create a new folder for your music
that you will put on your PMA8000B
MP3
6. Transfer your music files into the new
music folder.
We recommend having no more than 1GB of
music files in this folder to ensure that all the
desired songs are played on the PMA8000B
MP3. Because of the Microsoft file protocol,
we cannot predict which files will be omitted.
Upload to Audio Panel
To upload from a USB memory device, connect the supplied 2.5 mm plug/USB adapter
cable (p/n 425-921-3983) to the audio panel
and your USB device.
Press and hold the Hold Function (TEL)
and Transfer (AUX) buttons until that unit
announces “Transferring.” The annunciation
will also give status reports approximately
as each 20% of the data is transferred, for
transfers lasting more than one minute..
After the music transfer is complete, the
PMA8000B MP3 will automatically reset to
store the files and create the new play list.
Therefore it is not advisable to upload files
in flight or when the audio panel is otherwise in use.
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The maximum transfer rate will decrease by about 1% each time the
unit is uploaded, therefore frequent
music upload is not advised.
Warranty & Service
In order for the factory warranty to be valid,
the installations in a certified aircraft must be accomplished by an FAA-(or other
ICAO agency) certified avionics shop and authorized PS Engineering dealer. If the
unit is being installed by a non-certified individual in an experimental aircraft, a factory-made intercom harness must be used for the warranty to be valid.
PS Engineering, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defect in material and workmanship for a period of three (3) years from the date of sale
(12) months of the three-year warranty period, PS Engineering, Inc., at its option, will
send a replacement unit at our expense if the unit should be determined to be defective
after consultation with a factory technician. For the remaining twenty-four (24)
months of the three-year warranty period, PS Engineering will send a no-cost replacement unit at customer shipping expense.
All transportation charges for returning the defective units are the responsibility of the
purchaser. All domestic transportation charges for returning the exchange or repaired
unit to the purchaser will be borne by PS Engineering, Inc. The risk of loss or damage
to the product is borne by the party making the shipment, unless the purchaser requests
a specific method of shipment. In this case, the purchaser assumes the risk of loss.
This warranty is not transferable. Any implied warranties expire at the expiration date
of this warranty. PS Engineering SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. This warranty does not cover a defect that has resulted from improper handling, storage or preservation, or unreasonable use or maintenance as determined by us. This warranty is void if there is any attempt to dissemble
this product without factory authorization. This warranty gives you specific legal
rights, and you may also have other rights, which may vary from state to state. Some
states do not allow the exclusion of limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitation or exclusions may not apply to you.
All items repaired or replaced under this warranty are warranted for the remainder of
the original warranty period. PS Engineering, Inc. reserves the rights to make modifications or improvements to the product without obligation to perform like modifications or improvements to previously manufactured products.
. During the first twelve
Factory Service
The units are covered by a three-year limited warranty. See warranty information. Call
PS Engineering, Inc. at (865) 988-9800 before you return any unit. This will allow the
service technician to provide any other suggestions for identifying the problem and
recommend possible solutions.
After discussing the problem with the technician and you obtain a Return Authorization Number, ship product to:
PS Engineering, Inc.
Attn: Service Department
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PMA8000B MP3
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9800 Martel Rd.
Lenoir City, TN 37772
(865) 988-9800 FAX (865) 988-6619
Email: contact@ps-engineering.com
Units that arrive without an RMA number, or telephone number
for a responsible contact, will be returned un-repaired. PS Engineering is not responsible for items sent via US Mail.
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PMA8000B MP3 Serial Number_______________________
Installed by________________________________________
Installation Date____________________________________
PS Engineering, Inc. 2010 ©
Copyright Notice
Copyrighted information in this manual is subject to change without notice. PS Engineering reserves the right
to improve or change the products or contents of this manual, without notification of any person or agency.
The contents of this pilot’s guide may be downloaded, stored and reprinted for personal use provided that this
copyright information is included. Commercial use is strictly prohibited. For further information contact the
Publications Manager at PS Engineering, Inc., 9800 Martel Road, Lenoir City, TN 37772. Phone (865) 9889800
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