To enhance the ease of installation and obtain optimum performance from the PA640, we recommend that
you first become familiar with all its features and special capabilities by studying the descriptions and
PA640
REMOTE
ON/OFF
®
LEVEL
1V
CH1 CH2
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
INPUT PANEL
BRIDGED
STEREO
LEVEL
1V
.2V3V
CH3 CH4
LINE INPUTS
BRIDGED
STEREO
LEVEL
1V
CH5 CH6
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
BRIDGED
STEREO
POWER
SIX CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER
SYLMAR, CA MADE IN U.S.A.
Fig. 1 The Model PA640
instructions in this manual.
The PA640 was designed to meet the audio power amplifier needs of custom installed multi-zoned systems
with high sonic quality. It's 6-5-4-3 multichannel capability permits a wide variety of other uses as well, such
as surround sound home theater applications. Specific features and technology are as follows:
• Cost/Size Efficiency. The PA640 features six 40-watt power amplifiers. This permits each PA640 to
drive 3-zones in a multi-zone system -- each with a 40-watt stereo amplifier per zone. The low profile
design, plus multiple amplifiers in a single package, delivers high quality at a reasonable price.
• Input Level Flexibility. The input levels are individually adjustable (per stereo pair) from a low of 0.2 volts
up to 3.3 volts. This gives the installer the ability to adjust the overall gain of the system or zone. For
instance, there may be a need to adjust the amplifier to deliver a controlled, maximum sound level into
a zone when the volume control on the preamp is set to maximum. This would act as a volume limiter
for any particular zone (i.e. to prevent the kids from over-driving wall speakers, etc.).
• 6-5-4-3 Output Flexibility. Each pair of amplifiers can be bridged to allow several channel and power
output capabilities. It can be configured into four power packages as follows:
- Six 40-watt amplifiers.
- One 140 and four 40-watt amplifiers.
- Two 140 and two 40-watt amplifiers.
- Three 140-watt amplifiers.
This gives the PA640 added use in many other applications, such as driving surround sound speaker
systems.
• Low Impedance Capability. Each amplifier is 2-Ohm safe under music conditions in stereo mode and
4-Ohm safe when bridged. This means, for instance, that you can drive two pairs of 8-Ohm speakers in
stereo mode in each zone with ease.
• Discrete Output Devices. All output and driver transistors are separate devices connected in a full-
complimentary Darlington configuration. This provides highest reliability in concert with highly linear
dynamic performance free of T.I.M. and slew induced distortions.
• Auto Protection Circuit. Protects the PA640 if a short or very low impedance is detected at the speaker
terminals. Each amplifier pair is protected separately, with an LED indicator showing which pair is in
protection. Normal operation is restored automatically within 3 to 4 seconds after the short is removed.
• Remote ON/OFF Jack. This jack allows the PA640 to be powered on and off by a positive DC voltage
ranging between 4 and 30 volts (11 mA @ 12 V). Specifically, it permits the 12 volt CO (Control Output)
from the Xantech ZPR68 to power one or more PA640's on and off automatically with zone ON/OFF
commands.
2
PA640
PA640 PANEL DESCRIPTIONS
1
POWER
SIX CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER
SYLMAR, CA MADE IN U.S.A.
Fig. 2 PA640 Input Panel –
Features and Functions
2
PA640
REMOTE
ON/OFF
®
LEVEL
1V
.2V3V
BRIDGED
CH1 CH2
LINE INPUTS
345
STEREO
LEVEL
1V
.2V3V
345345
CH3 CH4
LINE INPUTS
BRIDGED
STEREO
LEVEL
1V
CH5 CH6
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
BRIDGED
STEREO
1. POWER Indicator LED. This green LED lights when power is turned on by the POWER switch (item
# 8) or by a DC voltage applied to the REMOTE ON/OFF jack (item #2).
2. REMOTE ON/OFF Jack. This 3.5mm mono mini jack allows the PA640 to be powered on and off by
a positive DC voltage ranging between 4 and 30 volts (11 mA @ 12 V). For instance, it permits the
12 Volt CO (Control Output) from a Xantech ZPR68 IR controlled preamp to power the PA640 ON and
OFF automatically with zone ON/OFF commands. The DC Voltage must be applied continuously to
hold the ON condition and go to less than 0.5 Volt for the OFF condition.
NOTE:
The POWER switch (item #8) must be left in the MANUAL OFF (REMOTE ON/OFF)
position to permit the REMOTE ON/OFF jack to operate.
3. Input LEVEL Control. This screwdriver adjustable control (for each stereo or bridged pair) allows the
input level for full rated power output to be adjusted over a range of 0.2 volts to 3.3 volts (24.3 dB).
Normally you would adjust the driving preamp to max. volume, then set this control to the maximum
volume that the client desires for a given zone or room. This prevents the system from being driven
to potentially destructive power levels.
4. LINE INPUTS. These RCA type jacks are the audio inputs for the amplifier. Connect them to the
OUTPUT jacks of the driving preamp with good quality RCA type patch cables. Note that the inputs
are marked CH1, CH2, CH3, etc., signifying the individual channels. They correspond to the like
marked speaker terminals on the OUTPUT & AC panel (item # 7). When the switches (item #5) are
set to the BRIDGED mode, CH1, CH3 and CH5 become the active inputs and CH2, CH4 and CH6
are disabled.
5. BRIDGED/STEREO Switches. These switches allow each of the three pair of amplifiers to be placed
in either the BRIDGED 140 Watt (single channel) mode, or in the STEREO 40 Watts/channel (two
channel) mode.
CAUTION: Be sure to have the POWER turned OFF when changing the position of this switch and
when making the corresponding speaker connection changes.
Amplifiers & Preamplifiers
PA640
3
PA640 PANEL DESCRIPTIONS
PROTECTION
6
CH6 CH5
+ – – +
+ –
BRIDGED
7
PROTECTION
6
CH4 CH3
+ – – +
+ –
BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
7
PROTECTION
6
CH2 CH1
+ – – +
+ –
BRIDGED
SPEAKERSSPEAKERS
7
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE
STEREO MODE: 8 Ohms Min.
BRIDGED MODE: 16 Ohms Min.
POWER
120 VAC
89
60 HZ
MANUAL ON
MANUAL OFF
(REMOTE ON/OFF)
FUSE
5A
10
Fig. 3 PA640 Output & AC Panel – Features and Functions
6. PROTECTION Indicator LED's. These red LED's, one for each pair of channels, light for 3 to 4 seconds
when the amplifier senses a short circuit or a very low load impedance (under 2-Ohms) at the speaker
terminals. This protects the amplifier from potentially harmful conditions. If the short condition or the
input signal is not removed, the amplifier will continue to cycle on and off at the 3 to 4 second interval.
CAUTION: Do not allow this to continue for a lengthy period of time. Reduce the volume, remove the
short or low impedance condition and try again.
NOTE: The PROTECTION LED's will also light for 5 to 8 seconds when the amplifier is first turned
on. This is a normal muting function that quiets the amplifier during start-up.
7. SPEAKER Terminals. These plug-in 4-terminal screw connectors permit speaker wire sizes up to 12
gauge. When making connections for the STEREO mode, be sure to observe the "+" and "–" polarity
markings, just under the CH1, CH2, etc., markings, for each wire pair going to the speakers.
CAUTION: When making connections for the BRIDGED mode, remember only one speaker is being
attached per amplifier pair. Be sure to observe the outer "+" and "–" polarity markings on the 4-terminal
connector, as shown on the panel, for the one wire pair connecting to the speaker.
8. POWER Switch. When pressed to the IN position, power is applied to the PA640. This is the MANUAL
ON position. When pressed again, it releases to the OUT position (MANUAL OFF), turning the unit
OFF.
In addition, this switch must be left in the MANUAL OFF (REMOTE ON/OFF) position to permit external
DC Voltage control of power ON/OFF for the PA640.
NOTE: The PA640 may also be powered ON/OFF with an external AC line switch (such as the
switched AC outlet of a preamp, timer, etc.). For this type of operation, leave the POWER switch
depressed to the MANUAL ON position.
9. AC LINE Cord. Depending on the application, plug into a switched or un-switched 120V 60 Hz AC
outlet.
10. FUSE. When required, replace only with a fuse of the same type and rating (5 A 220V AC).
Replacement with a fuse of higher rating will not protect the amplifier and will void the warranty.
4
PA640
PA640
Aluminum mounting
panel (preferred)
FINS
INSTALLATION
PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING
When you mount the PA640, you need to plan its location carefully. Pay close attention to each of the
following factors:
1. The amplifier is convection cooled. That is, it depends on the natural free flow of air over the heat
dissipating fins for adequate cooling.
2. If mounted in an equipment cabinet or other confining location, allow at
least 3 inches of space
above the heat sink fins
Shelf, wall, etc.
PA640
Heat Dissipation
Fins
3-inch spacing
(minimum)
Aluminum mounting
panel (preferred)
(see Fig. 4). Be sure there
are large openings to allow the entry of cool air
and the escape of warm
air.
3. If the cabinet contains
other heat generating
components, or you are
using several PA640's in
Fig. 4 Horizontal Mounting
a large multi-zone system,
you will have to pay even closer attention to adequate ventilation.
4. Do not hesitate to use fans, if necessary, to ensure a constant flow
of air over the PA640's and the other heat generating components.
5. The PA640 will operate when mounted either horizontally or
vertically. The vertical placement is preferred, however, since it
will run approximately 5% to 10% cooler when so oriented. See
Fig. 5.
6. In multi-zone installations, you will have large bundles of leads to
accommodate audio, video and speaker connections. Be sure to
allow enough room for the leads and dress them so that they do
not block airflow.
7. Mounting the PA640 onto an aluminium panel (rather than on
wood or other non-heat conducting material) will add additional
heat dissipation capability. See Fig. 4 & 5.
8. Use the 4 holes on the chassis skirts and the screws provided to
mount the PA640.
I When making connections to the PA640 be sure the power cord is unplugged. Proceed as follows:
Stereo Mode Connections
1. Using good quality RCA type patch cables, connect the L
and R OUTPUT jacks of the driving preamp to the CH1,
CH2, etc. LINE INPUTS jacks on the PA640. Do this for
each amplifier pair. Refer to Fig. 6.
VIDEO
Preamp Outputs
ZPR68, etc.
2. Slide the BRIDGED/STEREO switch to the STEREO
position.
3. Using good quality speaker wire, connect the individual
speaker leads to the 4-terminal "SPEAKERS" connectors
on the PA640 as shown.
4. Even though the PA640 is 2-Ohm safe in Stereo Mode,
make sure the impedance presented to the speaker
terminals by the speakers (or any combination of speakers) is 4-Ohms minimum.
5. Be sure to observe correct polarity by connecting the "+"
and "–" terminal from each channel on the PA640 to the
L
AUDIO
R
LEVEL
1V
1
CH1 CH2
RCA Type
Patch Cords
Set
BRIDGED/STEREO
Switch to
STEREO position
BRIDGED
corresponding "+" and "–" terminals on each speaker.
This will ensure correct "phasing". See Fig. 6 and Speaker
Phasing below.
Since the connectors are removable, you may unplug
them for ease of lead assembly.
6. As a rule of thumb, use 18 gauge speaker wire for speaker
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
PA640 Input Panel
PA640 Speakers & AC Panel
STEREO
runs up to 30', 16 gauge up to 70', and 14 gauge up to 150'.
The 4-terminal connectors accept wire sizes up to 12
gauge max.
PROTECTION
CH2 CH1
+ – – +
7. Strip the insulation back about 1/4" and twist the strands
on each lead to prevent fraying.
+ –
CAUTION: After lead ends are inserted and the screws
BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
tightened down, be sure there are no free strands that
could cause shorting!
Speaker Phasing
Be sure speakers are
connected with correct
polarity as shown.
To obtain stable imaging and full bass response, it is imperative
that stereo speakers be connected "in phase" with each other.
– +
You can verify this as follows:
1. If the "+" (positive) and "–" (negative) terminals on your
speakers are correctly marked, and visible, and you have
Wall speakers,
shelf speakers, etc.
wired the system as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, then the
system will be "in phase". No further action is required.
Most manufacturer's identify the positive terminal with a
LeftRight
red binding post, a "+" sign, or a red dot.
2. If you are unsure of the markings, you can verify the
Fig. 6 STEREO Mode Connections
phasing. Using a mono sound source, such as AM radio,
alternately reverse the leads to one of the speakers. Pick
the connection that delivers a solid center image between
the speakers along with best bass response.
PA640
7
Amplifiers & Preamplifiers
– +
INSTALLATION (cont'd)
Bridged Mode Connections
In general, it is recommended that the BRIDGED
mode not be used in multi-room applications
where several speakers are driven through room
volume controls and the like. For such applica-
tions, use the STEREO mode. Instead, use the
BRIDGED mode for single speaker, higher power
applications, such as in surround sound systems.
Use speakers with an impedance rating of 8-Ohms
minimum.
To make connections for the BRIDGED
mode, follow the steps given before for
stereo connections, but with the following exceptions:
1. Connect RCA type patch cables
LEVEL
1V
from the OUTPUT jacks of the
driving preamp or other source to
the PA640 LINE INPUT jacks
marked CH1, and/or CH3, and/or
CH5. Do this for just the amplifier
PA640 Input Panel
pairs you wish to run in the bridged
mode.
(Jacks marked CH2, CH4 & CH6
are disabled in BRIDGED mode).
PROTECTION
Refer to Fig. 7.
CAUTION: Be sure power is OFF
when connecting or switching the
amp for BRIDGED operation.
2. Slide the BRIDGED/STEREO
switch to the BRIDGED position.
NOTE: Do this only on the amplifier pairs you
wish to run in the bridged mode!
3. Connect one speaker wire pair between the 4terminal "SPEAKERS" connectors on the
PA640 and the speakers as shown in Fig. 7.
Be sure to use only the two outer terminals
marked "+" and "–" on the 4-terminal connector as shown on the panel for BRIDGED
connections.
NOTE: Only one speaker is connected per amplifier
pair in the BRIDGED mode!
CAUTION: When operating in the BRIDGED mode
(particularly when bench testing the amplifier) do not
make a ground or any other kind of connection to the
amplifier speaker terminals other than those to the
individual speakers as shown. Failures caused by
inappropriate connections are not covered under the
warranty.
VIDEO
L
AUDIO
R
1
BRIDGED
CH1 CH2
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
CH4 CH3
+ – – +
+ –
SPEAKERS
BRIDGED
STEREO
Be sure speakers are
connected with correct
polarity as shown.
+ –
Speaker Systems
Left
Fig. 7 BRIDGED Mode Connections
Preamp Outputs
ZPR68, etc.
RCA Type
Patch Cords
BRIDGED/STEREO
Switches to
BRIDGED position
LEVEL
1V
CH3 CH4
.2V3V
LINE INPUTS
PA640 Speakers & AC Panel
PROTECTION
+ – – +
SPEAKERS
Set
BRIDGED
CH2 CH1
+ –
BRIDGED
– +
Right
STEREO
8
PA640
INSTALLATION (cont'd)
Connecting the REMOTE ON/OFF Jack
As mentioned under "PA640 PANEL DESCRIPTIONS", the REMOTE ON/OFF jack allows the power to
the PA640 to be turned ON and OFF by a remotely applied DC Voltage. Figs. 8 and 9 are typical applications
using this feature.
Fig. 8 illustrates how a PA640 can be switched ON and OFF via the switched AC outlet on the rear of a
preamplifier. When the preamplifier Power Switch is switched ON, power is applied to the DC adapter which
in turn applies 4V to 30V DC to the PA640, switching it ON. Similarly, when the preamplifier is switched
OFF, the DC voltage to the PA640 is removed, turning it OFF.
4V to 30V DC Adapter
plugged into a Switched
AC Outlet on Preamplifier
3.5mm Plug.
Tip
must
positive (+).
be
Preamplifier
POWER
REMOTE
ON/OFF
®
PA640
SIX CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER
SYLMAR, CA MADE IN U.S.A.
PA640
Fig. 8 REMOTE ON/OFF Jack Connections
Fig. 9 shows two PA640's in a typical multi-room system with a Xantech ZPR68 6-zone preamp. In this
case, the common +12V CO (control output) from the ZPR68 is used to remotely turn the PA640 ON/OFF.
When any one of the zones is turned on, the common +12V CO goes high, turning each of the PA640's ON.
Similarly, when the last zone is turned OFF, the +12V CO drops to 0V and turns the PA640's OFF.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
If you encounter a problem, please review the items in the following list. Be sure, in addition, to check other
system components, such as preamplifiers, CD players, speakers, speaker wiring, etc., that may be at fault.
Amplifiers & Preamplifiers
PROBLEM
1. Power Indicator does not light – no sound.
2. No sound from CH2, CH4 or CH6 when
stereo operation is desired.
3. Sound cuts in and out every 3 to 5 seconds.
4. PA640 does not turn OFF when REMOTE
input voltage goes to 0 Volts.
5. PA640 becomes very warm, shuts OFF, but
does not come back ON automatically.
PA640
PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION
• Check line cord for good contact in a live AC outlet.
• If REMOTE ON/OFF jack is used, be sure applied voltage is
between +4V and +30V DC with proper polarity. See Fig. 8.
• BRIDGED/STEREO switch is incorrectly set to BRIDGED
position. Set to STEREO position. See Fig. 6.
• Speaker load impedance is less than 2-Ohms for Stereo mode or
less than 4-Ohms for Bridged mode. Make changes in speakers
as necessary to obtain higher impedance.
• Be sure that the POWER switch (item 8, fig. 3) is set to the
MANUAL OFF (REMOTE ON/OFF) position.
• Set POWER switch (item 8, Fig. 3) to MANUAL OFF (OUT)
position for 15 seconds, then back ON. If REMOTE ON/OFF
jack is used, unplug for 15 seconds, then replug.
9
Fig. 9 A Multi-Zone System Using Two PA640's
RF Signal
IR Signal
3.5-to-3.5mm
Mono Mini Plug
cable.
Use part
#6017400.
ZPR68-10 Power
Supply
To 120 V AC
(unswitched)
782-00
Power
Supply
S
12VDC
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
IR OUT
MONITOR
L
780-80
"J" Box
IR Receiver
XANTECH
S-62/64/66
Wall Speakers
L
+12V
CI
G
CONFIRM
POWER
IR OUT
VIDEO OUT
STATUS
ON
SAT #1 Emitter
ON
SAT #2 Emitter
ON
VCR #1 Emitter
ON
VCR #2 Emitter
ON
LD Emitter
ON
DVD Emitter
ON
CD Emitter
ON
VIDEO OUT
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
THRESHOLD
STATUS
AM/FM Tuner Emitter
RF IN
TV
R
ZONE 2
R
Smart
Pad
™
2
ZONE 1
ZPR68-10
SIX ZONE EIGHT SOURCE REMOTE PREAMP
COMMON IR LEVEL
12345678
HI
LO
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
IR CONFIRM
12345678
VIDEO
COM
PORT
L
AUDIO
POWER
R
CO
G
POWER
SUPPLY
Loop video thru to
ZPR68-10 Video Inputs
(if necessary).
GMM1A
IR IN
VIDEO IN
GVM1
Gate
#1
VIDEO IN
GVM1
Gate
#2
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#3
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#4
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#5
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#6
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#7
CURRENT
SENSOR
GCM1
Gate
#8
Plug SAT Rec'rs into
120 V AC (u
To Sat #1
Video OUT
To Sat #2
Video OUT
VCR #1 Pwr
VCR #2 Pwr
Current
SENSOR
Current
SENSOR
LD Pwr
DVD Pwr
Current
SENSOR
Current
SENSOR
CD Pwr
Tuner Pwr
Current
SENSOR
Current
SENSOR
Plug
ALL
Current
SENSORs into 120 V
AC (unswitched).
GATEKEEP-IR
COMMON IR INDICATOR
COMMON IR OUTPUTS
SOURCE INPUTS
nswitch
ed)
SAT Rec'r #1
SAT Rec'r #2
VCR #1
VCR #2
To
IR OUT,
IR OUT,
Gate #1
IR OUT,
Gate #2
To
IR OUT,
Gate #3
To
To
Gate #4
V
LR
V
LR
V
LR
V
LR
SOURCE COMPONENTS
L
L
XANTECH
S-62/64/66
Wall Speakers
Smart
Pad
2
ZONE 4
VIDEO IN
TV
MONITOR
Smart
Dinky Link™
™
Pad
2
ZONE 3
AM/FM Tuner
Changer
CD
V
V
To
Gate #5
IR OUT,
™
480-00
IR Receiver
+12V
GND
STATUS
IR IN
VIDEO
L
AUDIO
R
A/V
Patch Cords
To
IR OUT,
Gate #8
To
IR OUT,
Gate #7
DVD Player
LR
To
IR OUT,
Gate #6
LD Player
LR
RF IN
TV
R
L
MONITOR
Smart
Pad
ZONE 5
VIDEO IN
TV
R
4-Conductor
Home Runs.
CAUTION
See
"POWER SUPPLY
CONSIDERATIONS"
in ZPR68-10
Manual, page 10.
ZONE CONTROL - IR INPUTS
ZONE IR OUTPUTS
123456
ZONE OUTPUTS
SYLMAR, CA • MADE IN U.S.A.
®
LR
LR
283M
Blink-IR™
Mouse
Emitter (8)
ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3
To Speakers in Rooms
ZONE AMPLIFIERS - MODEL
(Unswitched)
L
A/V
Patch Cords
Remote
ON/OFF
120V AC
MONITOR
Smart
Pad
ZONE 6
To
ZONE 4 ZONE 5 ZONE 6
To Speakers in Rooms
™
2
™
2
PA640
R
R
RF (TV)
Signal.
RG-6
Coax
Base
Band
Video.
Use
RG-6
Coax
RF
Amp
Use
ANT. or
(2)
Cable
2-Way
Combiner
Modulator
(2-Input)
2-Conductor
Mini-Plug-
to-Stripped
Ends. Use
6015900.
Remote
ON/OFF
120V AC
(Unswitched)
To
10
PA640
Fig. 10 Block Diagram (Channels 1 and 2 only)
PA640
CH2
Input
CH1
Input
REMOTE
ON/OFF
+
INPUT
LEVEL
+
+
Opto-
Isolator
STEREO
BRIDGED
+
INVERTER
MANUAL OFF
(Remote ON/OFF)
MANUAL
ON
PROTECTION
LED
Protection
Mute
PWM
and
Power Mute
+
+
POWER ON/OFF LED
Power
Supply
DISCRETE DRIVER & OUTPUT STAGES
Feedback
Protection
Feedback
Fuse
5A 220V AC
120V AC
60 Hz
SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Channels ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
S/N Ratio, A Weighted (ref. to rated power) ................................................................................................... > 100 dB
Frequency Response (@ 1 Watt, ± 3 dB) ..............................................................................................8 Hz to 100 kHz
Input Sensitivity ....................................................................... Input Gain Position
Max. ................................................................. 0.2 V
Mid. .................................................................. 1.0 V
Min. .................................................................. 3.3 V
Power Supply .........................................................................................................................................120 VAC, 60 Hz
Power Consumption .................................................................. No Signal....................................... 35 Watts (0.29 A)
6 chan @ 1/10 rated power .......... 265 Watts (2.2 A)
6 chan @ rated power ................... 640 Watts (5.3 A)
Remote ON/OFF Voltage ...................................................................................................................... +4V to +30V DC
Line Fuse Rating ..........................................................................................................................................5A 220V AC
Dimensions ......................................................................................................................... 13.5" L x 12.25" W x 3.6" H