Rockford Fosgate 240X4, 160X4 User Manual



4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIERS

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INSTALLATION & OPERATION

MANUAL

®®

Dear Customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of the world's finest brand of car audio

amplifiers. At Rockford Fosgate we are committed to musical reproduction at its
best, and we are pleased you chose our product. Through years of engineering
expertise, hand craftsmanship and critical testing procedures, we have created a
wide range of products that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you
deserve.

For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate
product installed by an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer, as we provide
specialized training through Rockford Technical Training Institute (RTTI). Please
read your warranty and retain your receipt and original carton for possible future
use.

To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order your Rockford
accessories, which include everything from T-shirts and jackets to hats and
sunglasses.

To get a free brochure on Rockford Fosgate products and Rockford accessories, in
the U.S. call 602-967-3565 or FAX [phone]. For all other countries, call
+001-602-967-3565 or FAX [phone].

PRACTICE SAFE SOUND™

CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS
OVER 100dB MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS. HIGH
POWERED AUTO SOUND SYSTEMS MAY PRODUCE SOUND
PRESSURE LEVELS WELL OVER 130dB. USE COMMON SENSE
AND PRACTICE SAFE SOUND.

If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this
product, we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you
need further assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-795-2385. Be sure to
have your serial number, model number and date of purchase available
when you call.

The serial number can be found on the outside of the box. Please record it
in the space provided below as your permanent record. This will serve as
verification of your factory warranty and may become useful in recovering
your amplifier if it is ever stolen.

Serial Number: ____________________
Model Number:____________________

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ...................................................................................... 1

Punch 4-Channel Amplifier Accessory Pack...................................... 1

Rockford Fosgate Accessories............................................................ 2

Technical Design Features ................................................................ 3

Design Features................................................................................. 6

Installation Considerations ................................................................ 8

Mounting Location............................................................................ 9

Battery and Charging....................................................................... 10

Wiring the System ........................................................................... 10

Using the XCard.............................................................................. 13

Using the Signal Input Switch.......................................................... 14

Basic Connections........................................................................... 15

System Diagrams............................................................................. 22

Troubleshooting .............................................................................. 26

Dynamic Power Measurements....................................................... 29

160x4 Specifications ....................................................................... 31

240x4 Specifications ....................................................................... 32

Warranty Information...................................................................... 33

GETTING STARTED

Welcome to Rockford Fosgate! This manual is designed to provide
information for the owner, salesperson and installer. For those of you
who want quick information on how to install this product, please
turn to the Basic Connections in the Installation section of this
manual. Other information can be located by using the Table of
Contents. We, at Rockford Fosgate, have worked very hard to make
sure all the information in this manual is current. But, as we are
constantly finding new ways to improve our product, this information
is subject to change without notice.

INTRODUCTION

The Punch 160x4 and 240x4 are 4-channel amplifiers which can
deliver 160 watts and 240 watts RMS respectively. Both ampli­fiers utilize a 2/4-channel input switch to eliminate the need for
signal splitters. A pair of internal XCard crossovers allow the
amplifiers to be configured for use with many popular system
designs without the added cost of external processors. The Punch
160x4 and 240x4 are powerful 4-channel amplifiers with inte­grated features which are offered at a competitive price.

We strongly recommend you have your Authorized Rockford
Fosgate Dealer install the new Punch amplifier. If you do choose
to install it yourself, please be sure to read the entire manual
before beginning.

PUNCH 4-CHANNEL AMPLIFIER
ACCESSORY PACK

The accessory pack shipped with the Punch 4-channel amplifier
includes the mounting hardware necessary to secure the amp to
the vehicle as well as attach the end caps.

Installation & Operation Manual
Punch Verification Certificate
(10)Allen Head Screws for speaker and power connectors
(4) Mounting Screws for end caps
(4) Mounting Screws for amplifier
(1) Allen Wrench 7/64"
(1) Allen Wrench 3/32"
(1) ATC In-line Fuseholder (160x4)
(1) AGU In-line Fuseholder (240x4)
(1) ATC 30 Amp Fuse (160x4)
(1) AGU 50 Amp Fuse (240x4)

– 1 –

ROCKFORD FOSGATE ACCESSORIES

The following accessories were designed to enhance the perfor­mance of the Punch 160x4 and 240x4 amplifiers.

Energy Storage Capacitor

The Punch capacitors are used to provide extra current needed by
amplifiers to reproduce musical transients. The Punch Caps also
have the natural ability to filter AC ripple caused by the alternator,
reducing the chance of noise in the system. The Punch Caps will
maximize both the sound quality and performance that Rockford

Fosgate amplifiers can deliver.

Punch Link (FG-LINK)

The Punch Link is a specially cast heatsink interconnect which
allows you to join any of our current Punch or Punch Power
amplifiers together. While providing additional cooling through
the coupling process, the Punch Link adds the finishing touch by

giving you the look of one awesome amplifier.

XCard

Additional crossover card frequencies are available for special­ized requirements. You can get the following XCards from your
Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer.

XM50 = 50Hz XM275 = 275Hz
XM70 = 70Hz XM400 = 400Hz
XM100 = 100Hz XM4.5k = 4,500Hz
XM150 = 150Hz XM6.5k = 6,500Hz
XM200 = 200Hz XM00 = Blank card for

custom crossover

– 2 –

TECHNICAL DESIGN FEATURES

◆ TRANS•ANA (TRANSconductance Active

Nodal Amplifier)

The

TRANS•ANA

is a circuit that allows the audio signal to pass through the
amplifier at
fixed high voltage rails via a pair of driver transistors. Signal
linearity is assured by an
transistors at ultrasonic frequencies. This allows amplifier perfor­mance similar to trans•

while utilizing the advantages of a non-floating power supply.
THE RESULT: An extended frequency bandwidth accurately

supplied to the output stages of the amplifier.

◆ TOP AZ (Tracking Operation Pre-Amplifier Zone)

The

TOPAZ

solves ground loop noise problems common to automotive
amplifier design. This innovative new development allows vastly
improved isolation of the input signal grounds from the power
supply ground of the amplifier. This is accomplished by allowing
the source unit to control the potential “environment” of the
entire input structure or “zone” of the amplifier. This process
improves the noise rejection of the amplifier by 30-40dB – an
astounding 30-100 times better than amplifiers without TOPAZ.

(TRANSconductance Active Nodal Amplifier)

low voltage

(Tracking Operation Pre-Amplifier Zone) circuitry

. The signal is directly level-shifted to the

active node

nova

which is highly stable and linear

formed by the driver

THE RESULT: Elimination of troublesome ground loop noise
between source and amplifier.

– 3 –

◆ DSM (Discrete Surface Mount) Technology

The

DSM

(Discrete Surface Mount) manufacturing process com­bines the advantages of both discrete components and integrated
circuitry. Rockford Fosgate is the only American amplifier manu­facturer to have invested millions into this process. DSM compo­nents differ from conventional discrete components in three
ways. They are more compact, more rugged, and they efficiently
dissipate generated heat. Using them wherever appropriate al­lows the advantages associated with discrete circuitry to be
retained while also providing room for both highly advanced
processing features and generous PC board copper paths where
needed. Their short lead-out structures allow maximum audio
performance and highest signal-to-noise ratios to be obtained in
amplifiers of desirable package size without resorting to “ampli-
fier-on-a-chip” shortcuts. These advantages are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1

Thru-Hole

THE RESULT: Fewer connections, improved reliability, shorter
signal paths, superior signal-to-noise ratio and awesome sonic
performance.

Component

Solder

Surface Mount

Solder

◆ XCard (Internal Crossover)

The Punch and Power amplifiers utilize internal active cross­overs. These crossovers have many performance advantages such
as using discrete components for exact frequency adjustments
which are far superior to potentiometers. Additionally, the XCard
can be configured for high-pass, low-pass and full range opera­tion. With slight modifications, many crossover frequencies and
slope configurations can be achieved.

THE RESULT: Increased system design flexibility with a precise
electronic crossover without the limitations of conventional

potentiometer designs.

– 4 –

◆ RTP (Real Time Protection)

NOMAD (NOn-Multiplying Advanced Decision)

The Punch and Power amplifiers use an
maximize safe output power under all operating conditions. Rock­ford Fosgate pioneered and developed
a crucial element in the performance edge of our amplifiers. The
innovative
is the most sophisticated version of this technique ever used,
bringing previously unavailable levels of accuracy, stability, tem­perature immunity and reliability to this critical process. NOMAD
makes advanced decisions based on device voltages to precisely
control the awesome levels of current available in the output
MOSFETs to safe values – but only when absolutely needed.

THE RESULT: Extremely fast protection system that always protects
the amplifier and never degrades the sound.

NOMAD

(NOn-Multiplying Advanced Decision) system

analog computer process

RTP

(Real Time Protection),

to

◆ MOSFET Devices

Rockford Fosgate is one of the few manufacturers in the sound
community to utilize MOSFET devices in both the
and the
Field Effect Transistor) devices offer several important inherent
advantages over the 30 year old technology of bi-polar design.
These advantages include: thermal stability, switching speed,
ultra low output impedance and wider bandwidth linearity. In
addition, MOSFETs operate very similar to vacuum tubes in
which they are more linear than bipolar transistors. However,
MOSFETs can deliver the midrange clarity without the limitations
of transient response and high frequency phase shifting normally
associated with tube operation.

output stages. MOSFET

(Metal Oxide Semiconductor

power supply

THE RESULT: Operational characteristics similar to vacuum

tubes without the performance limitations of tube designs.

– 5 –

DESIGN FEATURES

1. Cast Aluminum Heatsink – The cast aluminum heatsink of the
Punch amplifier dissipates heat generated by the amplifier's
circuitry. The inherent advantage of casting provides a 30%
improvement of cooling over conventional extrusion heatsink
designs.

2. End Caps – Interchangeable end caps conceal the wiring and
input cables, giving the amplifier a clean “stealth” look.

3 68

5 4 9

8

3

3. Speaker Terminals – The heavy duty, gold-plated terminal block
connectors (+ and –) will accept wire sizes from 8 AWG to 18
AWG. These gold-plated connectors are immune to corrosion
that can cause signal deterioration.

4. Power Terminals – The power and ground connectors on the
Punch amplifier are gold-plated and will accommodate up to 8
AWG wire maximizing the input current capability of the
amplifier.

5. REM Terminal – This spade terminal is used for the auto power/
remote turn-on of the Punch amplifier.

– 6 –

6. RCA Input Jacks – The industry standard RCA jacks provide

↕

➝

➝

➝

➝

easy connections for signal level input. They are gold-plated to
resist the signal degradation caused by corrosion.

7. Signal Input Switch – This switch allows selection of 2-channel
or 4-channel source unit feed.

8. Input Sensitivity Controls – The input level controls are preset
for 500mV which will match the output of most source units.
They can be adjusted to match input levels ranging from 150mV
to 3V.

9. LED Power Indicator – The LED illuminates when the unit is
turned on.

10. XCard (Internal Crossover) – These built-in crossover cards are
configurable for a multitude of operating frequencies. The
orientation of the card in its socket determines the function of
high-pass, low-pass, or full range operation.

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ana

Low Pass Full RangeHigh Pass

HP

LP

AMPLIFIER

FULL

ROCKFORD CORPORATION

®

MADE IN THE USA

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trans

20 Watts x 4 into 4Ω at 0.05% THD

40 Watts x 4 into 2Ω at 0.1% THD

LP

HP

2 Channel Input

4 Channel Input

10

XCard 1 XCard 2

7

– 7 –

INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

The following is a list of tools you will need for installing the Punch
amplifier:

Allen wrenches 7/64" & 3/32" (included) Voltmeter
Wire strippers Battery post wrench
Electric hand drill w/assorted bits Wire cutters
Wire crimpers Assorted connectors

This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for
installing your new Punch amplifier. Checking your battery and
present sound system, as well as pre-planning your system layout and
best wiring routes will save installation time. When deciding how to
lay out your new system, be sure that each component will be easily
accessible for making adjustments.

Before beginning any installation, be sure to follow these simple rules:

1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before
attempting to install the amplifier.

2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.

3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to
mounting your amplifier in place.

4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any
high current wires.

5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to
minimize signal or power loss.

6. Think before you drill! Be careful not to cut or drill into gas tanks,
fuel lines, brake or hydraulic lines, vacuum lines or electrical
wiring when working on any vehicle.

7. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires
inside the vehicle provides the best protection.

8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or
plastic grommets to protect any wires routed through metal,
especially the firewall.

9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage
with proper fusing. Install the appropriate fuseholder and fuse on
the +12V power wire within 18” (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.

10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint
from the metal to ensure a good, clean ground connection.
Grounding connections should be as short as possible and always
be connected to metal that is welded to the main body, or chassis,
of the vehicle.

– 8 –

MOUNTING LOCATION

The mounting location and position of your amplifier will have a great
effect on its ability to dissipate the heat generated during normal
operation. The design of our cast aluminum heatsink serves to easily
dissipate the heat generated over a wide range of operating condi­tions. However, to maximize the performance of your amplifier, care
should be taken to ensure adequate ventilation.

Trunk Mounting

Mounting the amplifier vertically on a surface with the fin grooves
running up and down will provide the best cooling of the amplifier.

Mounting the amplifier on the floor of the trunk will work but provides
less cooling capability than vertical mounting.

Mounting the amplifier upside down to the rear deck of the trunk will
not provide proper cooling and will severely affect the performance
of the amplifier and is

Passenger Compartment Mounting

Mounting the amplifier in the passenger compartment will work as
long as you provide a sufficient amount of air for the amplifier to cool
itself. If you are going to mount the amplifier under the seat of the
vehicle, you must have at least 1" (2.54cm) of air gap around the
amplifier's heatsink.

not

recommended.

Mounting the amplifier with less than 1" (2.54cm) of air gap around
the amplifier's heatsink in the passenger compartment will not
provide proper cooling and will severely affect the performance of the
amplifier and is

not

recommended.

Engine Compartment Mounting

Rockford Fosgate amplifiers should
compartment. Not only will this void your warranty but could create
an embarrassing situation caused by the ridicule from your friends.

– 9 –

never

be mounted in the engine

BATTERY AND CHARGING

Amplifiers will put an increased load on the vehicle's battery and
charging system. We recommend checking your alternator and
battery condition to ensure that the electrical system has enough
capacity to handle the increased load of your stereo system. Stock
electrical systems which are in good condition should be able to
handle the extra load of any Rockford amplifier without problems,
although battery and alternator life can be reduced slightly. To
maximize the performance of your Rockford Fosgate amplifier, we
suggest the use of a heavy duty battery, high output alternator and an
energy storage capacitor.

WIRING THE SYSTEM

CAUTION: Avoid running power wires near the low level input
cables, antenna, power leads, sensitive equipment or harnesses. The
power wires carry substantial current and could induce noise into the
audio system.

• For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.

1. Plan the wire routing. Take care when running signal level RCA
cables to keep them close together but isolated from the amplifier's
power cables and any high power auto accessories, especially
electric motors. This is done to prevent coupling the noise from
radiated electrical fields into the audio signal. When feeding the
wires through the firewall or any metal barrier, protect them with
plastic or rubber grommets to prevent short circuits. Leave the
wires long at this point to adjust for a precise fit at a later time.

2. Prepare the Power cable for attachment to the amplifier by
stripping 5/8" of insulation from the end of the wire. The use of 8
gauge power cable can interfere with the installation of the end
caps. Proper wire dress can prevent this from occurring. To
prevent the wire from fraying, strip the insulation at a 45° angle.
Insert the bared wire into the B+ terminal with the long side of the
insulation on the top. Bend the cable down at a 90° angle. Tighten
the set screw to secure the cable in place.

– 10 –

3. Punch 160x

4

Trim the power cable to within 18" of the battery and install the
protective rubber boot packed with the fuseholder over the
end of the wire. Strip 3/8" of insulation from the wire and insert
it into the end of the fuseholder, then crimp it in place. Slide
the rubber boot into place to cover the connection. Use the
section of cable trimmed earlier and connect it to the other end
of the fuseholder.

Punch 240x

4

Mount the fuseholder within 18" of the battery using two (2) #8
screws. Disassemble the fuseholder. You should have 2 black
plastic end caps, 2 gold-plated fuse clips, a plastic spacer and
the fuseholder body. Trim the amplifier power cable to reach
the fuseholder and strip the wire 3/8". Slide one of the end caps
over the wire (narrow end first) and insert the wire into one of
the fuse clips. Tighten the set screw. Screw the black end cap
to the fuseholder body to secure the cable. Use the section of
cable that was trimmed earlier and connect it to the other end
of the fuseholder. Install the plastic spacer in the fuseholder
and attach the cable to the fuseholder body.

NOTE: The B+ cable MUST be fused 18" or less from the
vehicle's battery. Install the fuseholder under the hood and
prepare the cable ends as stated above. Connections should
be water tight.

4. Strip 3/8" from the battery end of the power cable and crimp
the large ring terminal to the cable. Use the ring terminal to
connect to the battery positive terminal. Do not install the fuse

at this time.

5. Prepare a length of cable to be used for the ground connection.
Strip 5/8" of insulation from the end of the cable as described
previously and connect to the appropriate terminal of the
amplifier. Prepare the chassis ground by scraping any paint
from the metal surface and thoroughly clean the area of all dirt
and grease. Strip the other end of the wire and attach a ring
connector. Fasten the cable to the chassis using a screw.

– 11 –

6. Prepare the REM turn-on wire for connection to the amplifier
by stripping 5/8" of insulation from the wire end and crimping
an insulated spade connector in place. Slide the connector
over the REM terminal on the amplifier. Connect the other end
of the REM wire to a switched 12 volt positive source. The
switched signal is usually taken from the source unit's auto
antenna or the accessory lead. If the source unit does not have
these outputs available, the recommended solution is to wire
a mechanical switch in line with a 12 volt source to activate
the amplifier.

7. Connect the source signal to the amplifier by plugging the RCA
cables into the input jacks at the amplifier.

8. Connect the speakers. Strip the speaker wires 5/8" and insert
into the appropriate terminal on the amplifier. Insert the bared
wire into the speaker terminal and tighten the set screw to
secure into place. Be sure to maintain proper speaker polarity.

DO NOT chassis ground any of the speaker leads as unstable
operation may result.

9. Perform a final check of the completed system wiring to ensure
that all connections are accurate. Check all power and ground
connections for frayed wires and loose connections which
could cause problems.

10.

After the final inspection is complete, install the power fuse
and enjoy listening. During the initial listening period, you
may need to “fine tune” any phasing and level settings within
your particular vehicle. To aid in this procedure, play a track
with high musical content and cruise around your neighbor­hood. After fully evaluating the transient response of your
system and making any final adjustments, all your neighbors
within a 1 mile radius will assume that you have just success­fully completed another upgrade to your audio system for
which they will probably spill thumbtacks on your driveway.

– 12 –

USING THE XCARD

↕

➝

➝

➝

➝

The crossover functions are controlled through the use of an
XCard and can be set for high-pass, low-pass or full range
operation. Each crossover card has two faces: one face operates

Full Range, the other has arrows to indicate the edge for selecting
HP (high-pass) or LP (low-pass) operation. Orient the card with

the desired operating edge, indicated by the arrow, toward the
socket terminals inside the amplifier. Firmly, but carefully, plug

the card into the socket.

Low-Pass Full RangeHigh-Pass

LP

HP

HP

LP

FULL

The crossover point can be altered by changing the resistor value.
Use the following formula to select the appropriate resistor value

to be placed on the XCard.

3386

7234

= R (in kΩ) for .047µf cap

f

o

= R (in kΩ) for .022µf cap

f

o

Crossover Card

High Pass

R1

Low Pass
Full Range

R2

The actual formula is:

R =

1

2πfoc

R1

FULL

R2

Where: R = ohms

fo = desired crossover frequency
c = capacitor in farads

ex: .047 x 10-6 for .047µf cap

– 13 –

USING THE SIGNAL INPUT SWITCH

2-Channel Input

+ L– + R–

LR

Rear XCard

Input

1 2

LR

Front XCard

• RCAs connected to Front inputs

• Signal Input Switch set to 2-channel input

• This configuration eliminates the need for signal splitters

4-Channel Input

Input

12

34

– R+– L+

+ L– + R–

L F R F

Rear XCard

– L+ – R+

LR RR

Front XCard

• RCAs connected to Front & Rear inputs

• Signal Input Switch set to 4-channel input

• This configuration allows for Front & Rear fading

– 14 –

BASIC CONNECTIONS

Power Connections

REM

Connect to remote

turn-on lead of

source unit

Less than 18"

Connect to B+ of battery

*Keep grounds as short as possible.

B+

GND

Connect to chassis
ground of vehicle*

with proper fuse

P160x4

P240x4

Power

- 30A

- 50A

– 15 –

Stereo Operation

Input

2-Ch.

{

+R–

+L–

+ –

4 ohm 4 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

LP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

Front XCard*

Front XCard

LP

– R +– L+

+ –

• RCAs are connected to front inputs

• Signal Input Switch set to 2-channel input

• Gain for front and rear must be set equally to balance left and right
channels

• Impedance for left bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• Impedance for right bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• XCards for front and rear are set identically as High-Pass, Low-Pass or
Full Range

– 16 –

Mono Operation

Input
2-Ch.

{

+ L– + R–

+ –

4 ohm 4 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

LP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

– L+ – R+

+ –

Front XCard*

LP

Front XCard

• RCAs are connected to front inputs

• Signal Input Switch set to 2-channel input

• Gain for front and rear operates independently

• Impedance for front bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• Impedance for rear bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• Front XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

• Rear XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

– 17 –

3-Channel Operation

INPUT

2-Ch.

{

4-Ch.

{

+ L–

+ – + –

2 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

LP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

+ –

2 ohm

Front XCard*

HP

Front XCard

– L+ – R++ R–

4 ohm

4-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

LP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

Front XCard*

HP

Front XCard

• RCAs are connected to front or front and rear inputs

• Signal Input Switch is set to 2-channel or 4-channel input

• Gain for front and rear operates independently

• Impedance for front stereo channels should be no less than 2Ω

• Impedance for rear bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• Front XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

• Rear XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

Note: Invert the speaker wire polarity (+ and –) on the rear channels if
XCard for front channel is set to HP and XCard for rear channel is set to
LP (or vice versa).

– 18 –

4-Channel Stereo Operation

INPUT

{

2-Ch.

{

4-Ch.

+ L–

+ –

2 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

HP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

+ –

2 ohm

Front XCard*

HP

Front XCard

– L+ – R++ R–

+ –

2 ohm

4-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

HP

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

+ –

2 ohm

Front XCard*

Front XCard

• RCAs are connected to front or front and rear inputs

• Signal Input Switch is set to 2-channel or 4-channel input

• Gain for front and rear operates independently

• Impedance for each stereo channel should be no less than 2Ω

• Front XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

• Rear XCard can be set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

HP

Note: Invert the speaker wire polarity (+ and –) on the rear channels if
XCard for front channel is set to HP and XCard for rear channel is set to
LP (or vice versa).

– 19 –

4-Channel Stereo/Single Bridged Operation

INPUT

4-Ch.

{

2-Ch.

{

+ L–

+ –

2 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

FULL

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

+ –

2 ohm

Front XCard*

HP

Front XCard

– L+ – R++ R–

– +

2 ohm

Rear XCard*

FULL

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

– +

2 ohm

4 ohm

4-Channel Input

Front XCard*

HP

Front XCard

• RCAs are connected to front or front and rear inputs

• Signal Input Switch is set to 2-channel or 4-channel input

• Gain for front and rear operates independently

• Impedance for front and rear stereo channel should be no less than 2Ω

• Impedance for rear bridged channel should be no less than 4Ω

• Front XCard is set for High-Pass, Low-Pass or Full Range

• Rear XCard is set to Full Range

– 20 –

4-Channel Stereo/Dual Bridged Operation

INPUT

4-Ch.

{

2-Ch.

{

+ L–

+ –

2 ohm

2-Channel Input

Rear XCard*

FULL

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

+ –

2 ohm

Front XCard*

FULL

Front XCard

– L+ – R++ R–

– +

2 ohm

Rear XCard*

FULL

Rear XCard

*Note: XCard can be inserted in HP, LP, or Full Range

– +

2 ohm

4 ohm4 ohm

4-Channel Input

Front XCard*

FULL

Front XCard

• RCAs are connected to front or front and rear inputs

• Signal Input Switch is set to 2-channel or 4-channel input

• Gain for front and rear operates independently

• Impedance for front and rear stereo channel should be no less than 2Ω

• Impedance for front and rear bridged channels should be no less

than 4Ω

• Front XCard is set to Full Range

• Rear XCard is set to Full Range

– 21 –

SYSTEM DIAGRAMS

80 Watt 3-Way System

RFA-414

+

–

+

2X-4 2X-4

–

+

–

100Hz - 20,000Hz

12dB/octave HP

–

+

Front

RFA-414

trans

–

+

–

+

Rear

®

®

•

ana

+ –

+ –

PWR-812

20Hz - 100Hz

12dB/octave LP

– 22 –

80 Watt 4-Way System

275Hz - 20kHz

6dB/octave HP

RFA-414

2X-4

100Hz - 275Hz

12dB/octave HP

6dB/octave LP

Front

2X-4

®

trans

•

RFA-414

Rear

®

ana

+ –

+ –

PWR-812

20Hz - 100Hz

12dB/octave LP

– 23 –

200 Watt 4-Way System

®

trans

•

ana

PWR-812

Front

Rear

12dB/octave LP

20Hz - 100Hz

+ –

+ –

®

®

trans

•

ana

®

RFA-414

12dB/octave HP

100Hz - 20,000Hz

2X-4

2X-4

RFA-414

RFA-414

2X-4

2X-4

RFA-414

12dB/octave HP

100Hz - 20,000Hz

12dB/octave HP

100Hz - 275Hz

4

– 24 –

300 Watt 4-Way System

RFA-414

2X-4

2X-4

RFA-414

12dB/octave HP

100Hz - 20,000Hz

Front

Rear

®

®

trans

•

ana

RFA-414

12dB/octave HP

100Hz - 20,000Hz

2X-4

2X-4

RFA-414

®

trans

•

ana

®

4

12dB/octave HP

6dB/octave LP

100Hz - 275Hz

RFA-64

RFA-64

®

POWER

®

250

2

12dB/octave HP

12dB/octave LP

25Hz - 100Hz

PWR-812

– 25 –

TROUBLESHOOTING

Symptom Diagnosis Remedy

Amplifier does not
turn on

(Power LED is off)

Amplifier has no
sound

(Power LED is on)

Voltage applied to the
REM terminal of the
amplifier is not between

10.5 and 15.5 volts or
there is no voltage
present.

Voltage to the B+ termi­nal of the amplifier is
not between 10.5 and

15.5 volts or there is no
voltage present.

Amplifier is not prop­erly grounded.

RCA Input from source
unit is not connected or
not functioning prop­erly.

XCard is missing or not
placed properly in cross­over slots.

Check the alternator, bat­tery, fuse, and wiring and
repair as necessary. If the
voltage is above 15.5 volts,
have the electrical system
inspected by an authorized
car service center.

Check the alternator, bat­tery, fuse, and wiring and
repair as necessary. If the
voltage is above 15.5 volts,
have the electrical system
inspected by an authorized
car service center.

Check wiring and repair as
necessary.

Check connections, substi­tute with known working
source and cables and repair
or replace as necessary.

Check XCard position and
repair or replace as neces­sary.

Speaker leads are
shorted to each other or
to the chassis of the ve­hicle.

Speakers are defective.

– 26 –

Disconnect existing speak­ers and test with known
working speakers and wires.
If amplifier plays, check and
repair wiring and installa­tion of speakers as neces­sary.

Disconnect existing speak­ers and test with known
working speakers. If ampli­fier plays, check and repair
speakers as necessary.

Symptom Diagnosis Remedy

Speaker Output
Low or Distorted

No Output on
Rear Channels
Only

(using 2 inputs)

Rear Channels
are Non-Fading

(using 4 inputs)

Input gain signal for
amplifier is incorrectly
set.

Source unit output too
low or source unit has
no output.

XCard is missing or not
placed properly in cross­over slots.

Low battery voltage or
large voltage drops to
the amplifier under load.

Signal input switch not
configured properly.

XCard is missing or not
placed properly in
crossover slot.

Signal input switch not
configured properly.

Readjust input gains of
amplifier.

Check system with known
working source and repair
or replace original source
as needed.

Check XCard position and
repair or replace as neces­sary.

Check the alternator, bat­tery, fuse, and power and
ground wiring. Repair as
necessary.

Check signal input switch
and reconfigure for 2-chan­nel input.

Check XCard position and
repair or replace as neces­sary.

Check signal input switch
and reconfigure for 4-chan­nel input.

Amplifier Noise

(Turn-on Pop)

Voltage spike from out­put of preceding com­ponent is entering am­plifier through input sig­nal.

Voltage spike from re­mote turn-on lead is
entering through REM
input terminal.

– 27 –

Disconnect input signal to
amplifier and turn ampli­fier on and off. If noise is
eliminated, connect REM
lead of amplifier to source
unit with a delay turn-on
module.

Use a different 12 volt
source for REM lead of am­plifier. (i.e., battery direct)
If noise is eliminated, use a
relay to isolate amplifier
from noisy turn-on output.

Symptom Diagnosis Remedy

Engine Noise

Noise is radiating into
RCA signal cable.

Bad component in the sig­nal chain.

Noise is radiating into
speaker cables.

Multiple grounds in the
audio system.

Check connections, run the
RCA cables on a different
route away from sources of
high voltage.

Check connections, bypass
additional components
(crossovers and equalizers)
between the source unit
and the amplifier. Connect
one component at a time
to determine the culprit.
Repair or replace compo­nents as necessary.

Disconnect existing speak­ers and connect a test
speaker to the output ter­minals of the amplifier. If
noise is gone, reroute the
speaker cables away from
sources of high voltage.

Check ground connections
and connect amplifiers, sig­nal processors, and other
components to a central
location or try a different
grounding point on the
chassis.

Ground loop between
source unit and antenna.

• If noise persists, see your Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer.

Check connections, dis­connect antenna from
source unit. If noise is gone,
install an antenna ground
loop isolator.

– 28 –

DYNAMIC POWER MEASUREMENTS

About the Dynamic Power Measurements

The Audio Graph PowerCube is a test instrument used to measure the
output of an amplifier in accordance with IHF-202 industry stan­dards. The IHF-202 standard is a dynamic power measurement and
was developed as a means of measuring power in a manner that best
represents the real world operation of an amplifier. Many manufac­turers, including Rockford Fosgate, at times will measure amplifier
power into a fixed resistor (4 ohm, 2 ohm). While this method is useful
in some types of evaluation and testing, it is not representative of an
amplifier that is connected to a speaker and playing music.

Music

Music is dynamic; the sound waves are complex and constantly
changing. In order to simulate this, the IHF-202 standard calls for the
input signal to the amplifier to be a 1kHz bursted tone. This signal is
input (on for 20 milliseconds) and reduced 20dB for 480 millisec­onds. The signal is gradually increased in level until the amplifier's
output exceeds 1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). At 1% distor­tion becomes audible, therefore, any power produced above that
level is considered

amplifiers' output power in excess of 10% distortion. They use many
names for this measurement, such as Total Maximum Power or
Maximum Output Power. This is not indicative of the

output power

.

not usable

. Many manufacturers represent their

actual usable

Listening to Loudspeakers - Not Resistors

A loudspeaker is not a resistor. A resistor's value (resistance measured
in ohms) is fixed. A loudspeaker's impedance is dynamic. It is
constantly changing in value, dependent upon the frequency of the
input signal. Therefore, measuring power with the amplifier loaded
into a 4 ohm resistor is not the same as measuring power with the
amplifier connected to a 4 ohm speaker. Most people do not listen to
music through a resistor.

A 4 ohm speaker may experience a drop in impedance 4-6 times lower
than its nominal (printed) impedance. A speaker will also create phase
shifts in the signal that is passed through it. These phase shifts happen
because a speaker is an inductor (voice coil) and a capacitor (compli­ance of the surround/spider), as well as a resistor (voice coil wire).

To simulate a speaker the Audio Graph PowerCube measures output
power into 20 different loads. It tests at 8 ohms, 4 ohms, 2 ohms and
1 ohm. Each of these impedances is also tested at –60°, –30°, 0°, +30°
and +60° phase angles. These different impedances and phase angles
represent the shifts in impedance and phase that can occur in a typical
loudspeaker.

– 29 –

Information Cubed

The data acquired in the testing procedure is then graphed in the form
of a 3-dimensional cube. Hence the name PowerCube.

The

Phase Angle

Voltage

is presented on the vertical axis and the

displayed on the Z axis.

is expressed on the horizontal axis, the

Impedance

Output Power,

in watts, is listed on the left

Output

is

hand side for each impedance at each phase angle.

MODEL BEING

TESTED

Amplifier:

PUNCH 200ix 14.4V x 2
Serial No:
Owner :

ROCKFORD CORPORATION

84 W

8Ω –60°

*

84 W

–30°

83 W

0°

84 W

30°

85 W

60°

159 W

4Ω –60°

*

154 W

–30°

153 W

0°

154 W

30°

158 W

60°

266 W

2Ω –60°

*

IMPEDANCE

–30°

1Ω –60°

*

–30°

30°
60°

30°
60°

251 W

245 W

0°

248 W

261 W

378 W

343 W

333 W

0°

339 W

373 W

VOLTAGE FROM

BATTERY

POWER

IN

WATTS

{

–60° (Cap)

PHASE ANGLES

x2 = STEREO

MONO = BRIDGED MONO

0°

{

Rated Power : 100 W @ 4 Ohms

2Ω

1Ω

(Ind) +60°

{

Impedance

50V

30V

10V

OUTPUT VOLTAGE

8Ω

4Ω

• Example of a 200ix PowerCube

What is an Amplifier?

An amplifier by definition is a voltage generating device, recreating
the signal which is input to it identically but with increased volume.
It will be connected to a reactive load (the speaker). The impedance
of this load and phase of the signal passing through the load will vary,
dependent upon the frequency of the input signal (music).

AudioGraph – The PowerCube™

Therefore, a perfect amplifier will be able to maintain the same output
voltage regardless of load characteristics and will not alter the signal
it is reproducing. A perfect amplifier when measured by the
AudioGraph PowerCube would present data that forms a perfect
cube. Unfortunately, amplifiers are not perfect. The laws of physics
generally prevent it. A great amplifier is about the best one can hope
to attain.

As you can see by the PowerCube and as you will experience by
listening, your Punch amplifier is a GREAT AMPLIFIER!

– 30 –

160X4 SPECIFICATIONS

Continuous Power Rating (Competition Standard) – Measured at 13.8V
RMS continuous power per channel, all channels 20 Watts
driven into a 4Ω load from 20-20,000Hz with
less than 0.05% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

RMS continuous power per channel, all channels 40 Watts
driven into a 2Ω load from 20-20000Hz, with
less than 0.1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

RMS continuous power bridged into a 4Ω load 80 Watts
from 20-20000Hz, with less than 0.1%
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

Dynamic Power Rating (IHF-202 Standard) – Measured at 14.4V
2-Channel bridged into a 4Ω load 120 Watts
per channel into a 2Ω load 60 Watts
per channel into a 4Ω load 40 Watts

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted) >100dB
Factory Default Crossover Point 100Hz Butterworth

Crossover Alignment 12dB/octave
Dimensions 95⁄8"W x 125⁄8"L x 25⁄8"H

(24.4cm) x (32.0cm) x (6.6cm)

Damping Factor @ 4Ω (at output connector) >150
Bandwidth 15Hz-100kHz ±3dB
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB
Slew Rate 30 V/µs
IM Distortion (IHF) <0.05%
Input Sensitivity Variable from 150mV to 3V

Preset at the factory for 500mV
B+ Fuse Size (external to amplifier) 30 amp
Input Impedance 20k ohms

– 31 –

240X4 SPECIFICATIONS

Continuous Power Rating (Competition Standard) – Measured at 13.8V
RMS continuous power per channel, all channels 30 Watts
driven into a 4Ω load from 20-20,000Hz with
less than 0.05% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

RMS continuous power per channel, all channels 60 Watts
driven into a 2Ω load from 20-20000Hz, with
less than 0.1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

RMS continuous power bridged into a 4Ω load 120 Watts
from 20-20000Hz, with less than 0.1%
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)

Dynamic Power Rating (IHF-202 Standard) – Measured at 14.4V
2-Channel bridged into a 4Ω load 180 Watts
per channel into a 2Ω load 100 Watts
per channel into a 4Ω load 60 Watts

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted) >100dB
Factory Default Crossover Point 100Hz Butterworth

Crossover Alignment 12dB/octave
Dimensions 95⁄8"W x 135⁄8"L x 25⁄8"H

(24.4cm) x (32.0cm) x (6.6cm)

Damping Factor @ 4Ω (at output connector) >150
Bandwidth 15Hz-100kHz ±3dB
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB
Slew Rate 30 V/µs
IM Distortion (IHF) <0.05%
Input Sensitivity Variable from 150mV to 3V

Preset at the factory for 500mV
B+ Fuse Size (external to amplifier) 50 amp
Input Impedance 20k ohms

– 32 –

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Rockford Fosgate warrants all electronics to the original consumer/purchaser to
be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a period of three (3) years.
We will cover parts and labor provided the product was purchased from an
Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer. This warranty does not apply to any product
on which the seals and/or serial number have been broken, removed, tampered
with, defaced or altered in any manner. This warranty only applies to the original
consumer/purchaser and is not transferable.

Electronics found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or
replaced at Rockford Fosgate’s discretion. Repaired or replaced electronics will
be covered by the balance of the original warranty period only. Rockford Fosgate
shall not be responsible for any incidental or consequential damages resulting
from a defect in electronics. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages, so the previous limitation may not be
applicable.

The warranty does not cover any appearance item, any cost or expense related to
the removal or reinstallation of the product, any accessory used in conjunction
with the product, damage to the product resulting from alteration, accident,
misuse or abuse, or improper installation. This warranty does not apply if the parts
or labor, which would otherwise be provided without charge under this warranty,
are obtained from any source other than Rockford Fosgate or an Authorized
Rockford Fosgate Service Center.

This warranty is the only express warranty and does not create any implied
warranties. Rockford Fosgate limits its obligations under any implied warranties
under state laws to a period not to exceed the written warranty period. Some states
do not allow limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above
limitation may not apply. This warranty applies only to products sold in the United
States of America or its possessions. For warranty outside the U.S.A., please
contact the nearest Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer. This warranty gives the
consumer specific legal rights, and the consumer may have other rights which vary
from state to state.

A defective product must be shipped prepaid to the Authorized Rockford Fosgate
Dealer from which the consumer purchased the product or to the Rockford
Fosgate factory in Tempe, Arizona in the original factory carton or equivalent. Any
shipping loss or damage will be borne by the consumer or the consumer’s shipper.
A consumer returning a product to the factory must call [phone] for a
Return Authorization Number. All shipments shall be clearly marked with the
Return Authorization Number on the outside of the shipping carton.

Ship to:
Rockford Corporation
Warranty Repair Department
2055 E. 5th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281 U.S.A.
Return Authorization Number:_________________

NOTES

NOTES

6/95
MAN-0989-B

Rockford Fosgate

Rockford Corporation

546 South Rockford Drive

Tempe, Arizona 85281 U.S.A.

In U.S.A., [phone]

In Europe, Fax [phone]

In Japan, Fax [phone]