QSC Audio PowerLight 6.0 II User Manual

PowerLight 6.0

User Manual

*TD-000108-00*

TD-000108-00 rev.A

PowerLight Series

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

& EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS

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 QSC Audio Product’s instructions. 8- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 9- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one blade wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet. 10- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit the apparatus. 11- Only use attachments/accessories from QSC Audio Products, Inc. 12- Use only with carts, stands, tripods, brackets, interconnecting cables, or software specified by QSC Audio Products. When moving or transporting using a cart, use caution to avoid injury from tip-over. 13- Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. 14- Refer all servicing to qualified 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 or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped. 15- When installing equipment into a rack, distribute the units evenly. Otherwise, hazardous conditions may be created by an uneven weight distribution. 16- Connect the unit only to a properly rated supply circuit. 17- Reliable earthing (grounding) of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. 18- Maximum operating ambient temperature is 50°C.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous” voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to humans.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in this manual.

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

remove the cover. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel. WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.

The PL6.0 II has a serial number located on its side panel, next to the AC cord entry. It looks like the example, right. Please write the serial number down and keep for your records. Retain your sales receipt; it is your proof of purchase.

Model: PowerLight 6.0 II Serial Number: ________________________ Date of Purchase: ______________________ Purchased From: _______________________

“QSC” and the QSC logo are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

QSC® is a registered trademark of QSC Audio Products, Inc.

Combo is a registered trademark of Neutrik Inc., Lakewood, NJ .

Speakon™ is a registered trademark of Neutrik Inc., Lakewood, NJ

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Overview...........................................................................................4

Illustrations.............................................................................5

UNPACKING

Unpacking and Inspection..................................................................................6

What is Included.............................................................................................6

SETUP

Rack Mounting.................................................................................................................6

Cooling Requirements.................................................................................................8

AC Power Requirements..............................................................................9

Operating Mode Selection............................................................................10

CONNECTIONS

Inputs...........................................................................................................12

DataPort....................................................................................14

Power Supply Remote Control....................................................................16

Outputs: Binding Posts...............................................................................17

Outputs: Speakons™.....................................................................................18

USE

Power Switch...........................................................................................19

Power, Standby and Protect LED indicators.............................................19

Gain Controls.............................................................................................20

Signal, -20 dB, -10 dB, and Clip LED indicators........................................................20

Clip Limiters..................................................................................................21

TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................22

SPECIFICATIONS............................................................................................................24

APPENDIX

DataPort Pinout..............................................................................................25

QSC PowerWave Technology Overview...........................................................26

WARRANTY INFORMATION .............................................................................................27

HOW TO CONTACT QSC AUDIO PRODUCTS .........................................................27

INTRODUCTION- General Overview

Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the QSC PowerLight 6.0 II professional power amplifier. This product represents the state-ofthe-art in power amplification systems for professional touring, permanent installations, and other SR (sound reinforcement) applications requiring high levels of sustained power, extraordinary audio performance, reduced weight, and road-proven reliability. To get the most from your investment, we encourage you to review this manual carefully.

Part of the advanced technology PowerLight family of amplifiers, the PowerLight 6.0 II benefits from QSC’s exclusive PowerWave switching technology, its DataPort for remote computer control, and an enhanced design that provides greater airflow through the chassis— facilitating cooler, more efficient operation.

QSC PowerWave Technology

QSC’s PowerWave switching power supply technology provides ample current to the audio power circuitry by charging the supply rails 180,000 times per second through an ultra-low impedance circuit. This high-efficiency design

cuts waste heat and boosts reliability while delivering the added benefits of tighter bass and transparent highs for a more musical sound.

The PowerLight 6.0 II utilizes an enhanced, second-generation power supply design. This new design reduces both EMI (electromagnetic interference) and the overall weight of the unit—enabling far greater placement options when positioning equipment. In the unlikely event your unit ever requires service, the new power supply design offers several additional benefits—including greater ease of service, resulting in reduced labor time and lower replacement costs.

Remote Computer Control

The PowerLight 6.0 II also incorporates QSC’s unique DataPort for remote computer control. Using QSControl, QSC’s network audio system, you can monitor and control hundreds of amplifiers simultaneously, as well as perform a wide range of advanced functions—including event logging, checking the thermal status of the amplifier, plus real-time monitoring of loudspeaker opens and shorts.

What’s the difference between the “new” PL6.0 II and the “old” PL6.0? The chart, right, compares the two. Output power and AC current consumption are the specifications that have changed slightly. Output power is -

0.9dB at 8 ohms, and -1.04dB at 4 ohms. 2 ohms power remains unchanged. AC current draw variations are a result of power factor correction removal and power supply topology changes. These changes improve reliability of the amplifier under the most demanding output conditions.

INTRODUCTION- Illustrations

FRONT PANEL

1- Power switch 4- Gain controls 2- Power, Standby, and Protect LEDs 5- Signal, -20 dB, -10 dB, and Clip LEDs 3- Cooling air exhaust vents

REAR PANEL

1- Cooling air inlet vents 2- Domestic (North America) fixed AC power cord entry 2A- Export IEC-style detachable power cord entry 3- Mode switch (Bridge/Stereo/Parallel) 4- Input connectors (“combo” XLR/TRS and terminal blocks) 5- QSC DataPort Connector (interfaces with QSC accessories) 6- Remote power supply control 7- Output connectors 8- Operating voltage and serial number tag location (side of unit)

UNPACKING

Unpacking and Inspection

The PL6.0 II is highly durable and is carefully packaged. We recommend you inspect the unit carefully after removing it from the packaging, as occasionally there may be damage due to some unfortunate incident during shipment. Report any damage to the shipping carrier. We recommend saving the carton and packing material. It is always a good idea to keep the packaging in case the unit must be shipped back to your dealer, distributor, or service center. Also note: some freight companies consider damage claims without the original packing materials invalid.

The QSC shipping box should contain:

1- the PL6.0 II amplifier 2- this Owner’s Manual 3- accessory packet containing:

-rear rack ear mounting kit

-terminal-block connectors for inputs and remote power supply control

-four adhesive feet

SETUP- Rack Mounting

Supporting the Front of the Amplifier

Rack mounting of the amplifier is optional. The PL6.0 II is designed to fit a normal 19-inch width equipment rack. Secure the front rack ears using four machine screws with washers, as shown below. Verify operating voltage printed on the serial number plate; it is located on the side panel by the AC cord entry. Once the amplifier is mounted, it may be difficult to read this information (see p.9).

CAUTION! To minimize the risk of injury, we recommend an assistant help support the amplifier during rack installation.

When installing equipment into a rack, distribute the units evenly. Otherwise, hazardous conditions may be created by an uneven weight distribution.

SETUP- Rack Mounting

Supporting the Rear of the Amplifier

For mobile and touring use, it is extremely important to support the rear of the amplifier. The chassis and rack can be damaged if the amplifier is not properly supported. Unless the amplifier is being installed in its final, fixed location, QSC strongly recommends supporting the rear of the amplifier. Rear rack ears, required hardware, and a separate instruction sheet are included with your amplifier. The Specifications section includes helpful dimensions for determining rear support locations.

Attaching Rear Rack Ears

Method 1

The amplifier is first installed from the front of the rack and secured to the front rack rails. The rear ears are then secured to the amplifier using two machine screws. The ears are secured to the rails using regular rack hardware.

Method 2

The amplifier is first installed from the front of the rack and secured to the front rack rails. Temporarily secure the rear ears to the rear rack rails and select the appropriate mounting position for the “pin”. Remove the rear ears and install the locator pins securely. Use of threadlocking is recommended for highvibration installations.

SETUP- Cooling Requirements

Cooling Air Inlet and Exhaust Vents

The PL6.0 II has four rear-mounted variablespeed fans. Fan speed is determined by the temperature of the amplifier’s internal heatsink assembly.

Cooling air is drawn into the rear of the amplifier by the fans and exhausts through the front panel. The temperature of the air exiting the front vents is a good indicator of how hard the amplifier is working.

If mounting in a rackmount enclosure, be certain not to restrict the ability of fresh cooling air to enter back and exit the front. Do not use in enclosures with closed or sealed backs or fronts.

The amplifier relies on free air flow in and out of its vents. Keep the vents free of obstructions and dust buildup. Periodic inspection of the vents for dust buildup is recommended. If required, use a small bristle-brush gently around the vent openings while the amplifier is running. Do this outside to avoid blowing dust onto other equipment.

Be certain not to obstruct or block the cooling air vents in any way! Loss of cooling air flow could result in the amplifier going into thermal shutdown (protective muting to help cool the amplifier and prevent damage). Keep the vents free of dust and dirt buildup as airflow will be reduced.

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

SETUP- AC Power Requirements

AC Power

Before connecting the amplifier to the AC mains, check the serial number plate to verify operating voltage.

The PL6.0 II is available in 120 or 240 Volt models. Make sure the AC mains voltage is the same as specified on the serial number plate.

120 Volt models have the AC cordset hardwired to the chassis. 240 Volt models have an IEC-style detachable cordset.

Do not use improper AC mains voltage! It can create hazardous conditions and severely damage the amplifier!

AC Power Connection

The PL6.0 II is a very high-power amplifier and as such can demand high current from the AC service. All connections must be properly rated for reliable operation.

120 Volt Models NEMA L5-30 Receptacle

Connect the 30 Amp twist-lock connectors by orienting the locking L-shaped prong with the corresponding connector entry, then fully insert the three prongs. Twist the plug about 1/8 of a turn clockwise to lock the connector and plug.

240 Volt Models European 3-conductor Earthing Receptacle

Insert the plug fully into the receptacle.

Use of extension cords is discouraged. If extension cords must be used, use only heavy-duty 10 gauge extension cords that are as short as possible.

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