Carson Stereo Amplifier SA 500 27 User Manual

Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.  
5451 North Rural Street  
Indianapolis, IN 46220  
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667  
SA-500-27  
SIREN AMPLIFIER  
WITH MECHANICAL TONE  
VOLUME  
OUTPUT  
YPW  
MANUAL  
HORN  
RAD  
PA  
MECH  
SA-500  
STBY  
O
F
RADIO  
O
N
F
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING  
INSTRUCTIONS  
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.  
 
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 3 of 12  
GENERAL DESCRIPTION  
The SA-500 Siren Amplifier with Mechanical Tone is a premium unit designed for single or dual  
100W speaker use. A 4-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating modes of  
Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail, Mechanical, Standby and Radio. Two-Tone may optionally replace  
Phaser. A Horn push-button switch provides Horn override in all modes except Radio. A Manual  
push-button switch provides Manual control of the output tone or toggling between tones depend-  
ing on the selector switch setting. An independent rocker switch controls power. A permanently  
mounted Noise Canceling PA microphone overrides all modes except Radio. PA and Radio  
volume controls are provided on the front panel. An Auxiliary input is provided for connection to a  
positive or negative horn ring circuit or switch. A latching siren Cutout input is provided for con-  
nection to a door switch, etc. to stop siren tones when exiting the vehicle. An internal 8-Position  
DIP switch allows selection of various options. The front panel is backlit with LED's for night  
visibility. This compact unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection  
systems for maximum service life. Output indicator light on face for diagnostics.  
SPECIFICATIONS  
Input Voltage  
Input Current  
9 - 16 VDC (negative ground)  
8 AMPS (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)  
16 AMPS (@14 VDC - dual 100W speakers)  
Standby Current  
Audio Frequency  
Audio Distortion  
Audio Output  
Less than 150 ma  
200Hz - 10 kHz + 3db  
Less than 3% (@1 kHz - single 100W speaker)  
40 watts (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)  
0.75V RMS MIN. 400 ohms + 10%  
Audio Input  
Output Power  
105 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - single 100W speaker)  
180 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - dual 100W speakers)  
Siren Frequency  
700Hz - 1500Hz (Mechanical 700Hz - 1600Hz, Two-Tone = 435 & 585Hz)  
Tones/Cycle Rates  
Mech  
6 CPM  
Wail  
13 CPM  
Yelp  
190 CPM  
Phaser  
15 CPS  
Two-Tone  
60 CPM  
High Voltage Protection  
Short Circuit Current  
Operating Temp.  
Controls  
16 - 18 VDC will cause siren output to cease, resume at normal  
50 AMPS (supply circuit must be capable of supplying this)  
-15° F to +140°F  
4-position rotary mode switch (Y->P->W, Mechanical, Standby and Radio).  
Momentary push-button Horn switch.  
Momentary push-button Manual switch.  
Front panel PA and Radio volume controls.  
Auxiliary input connection programmable for positive or negative activation.  
Cutout input connection programmable for positive or negative latching operation.  
Internal 8-Position DIP switch option selector.  
Connections (10-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Cutout, Auxiliary  
Size  
6-1/8" Wide, 5-7/8" Deep, 2-1/8" High  
4-1/2 LBS.  
Weight  
CP5015A  
09/09/08  
 
Page 4 of 12  
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
INSTALLATION  
Proper installation of the unit is essential for years of safe, reliable operation. Please read all  
instruction before installing the unit. Failure to follow these instructions can cause serious dam-  
age to the unit or vehicle and may void warranties.  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
For the safety of the installer, vehicle operator, passengers and the community please observe  
the following safety precautions. Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may  
result in property damage, injury or death.  
Qualifications - The installer must have a firm knowledge of basic electricity, vehicle electrical  
systems and emergency equipment.  
Mounting - Mount the unit for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount in air bag  
deployment area. Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle. To prevent internal damage  
mounting bolts must not enter case more than 1/4".  
Wiring - Use wiring capable of handling the current required. Make sure all connections are tight.  
Route wiring to prevent wear, overheating and interference with air bag deployment. Install and  
check all wiring before connection to vehicle battery.  
Testing - Test all siren functions after installation to assure proper operation. Test vehicle opera-  
tion to assure no damage to vehicle.  
Keep These Instructions - Keep these instructions in the vehicle or other safe place for future  
reference. Advise the vehicle operator of the location.  
UNPACKING  
Inspect contents for shipping damage. If found alert carrier immediately.  
Contact supplier immediately if any components are missing.  
Contents of box should include the following items:  
Qty Item  
1
1
1
Amplifier Unit with attached Microphone (SA-500-27 14)  
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount (CP3571)  
Hardware Kit (ED1558)  
(Kit contains 2 Bolts, 1 10-P Term Block Plug, and 1 Mic Clip)  
1
Instruction Manual (CP5015 This Manual)  
09/09/08  
CP5015A  
 
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 5 of 12  
OPTION SWITCHES  
SIDE VIEW  
COVER REMOVED  
An internal 8-position DIP switch on the cir-  
cuit board may be changed to select various  
options. The cover for the unit must be re-  
moved to access the DIP switch.  
Accessing Option Switches - The cover is  
held in place by a snap-fastener on the back  
of the unit. Hold the unit with the front case  
flange on the edge of a hard surface and  
press hard on the back of the unit. The chas-  
sis will slide out the front of the cover.  
OPTION SWITCHES  
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Adjusting Option Switches - the DIP Switch is located on  
the internal PCB assembly board toward the right side of  
the unit. Switch 1 is toward the back of the unit. Switch  
‘ON’ position is toward the inside side of the unit.  
ON  
Default Setting Shown  
SW-1 and SW-2 ON  
SW-1 Cutout Input Polarity - The cutout input is normally activated with positive. Turn this  
switch OFF for negative activation.  
SW-2 Auxiliary Input Polarity - The auxiliary input is normally activated with positive. Turn this  
switch OFF for negative activation.  
SW-3 Auxiliary Input Function - The auxiliary input normally activates the Horn function. Turn  
this switch ON to activate the Manual function. (Manual push-button)  
SW-4 Two-Tone - Turn this switch ON to replace Phaser with Two-Tone.  
SW-5 Manual Wail - The Manual push-button normally operates Manual Mechanical in Standby  
mode. Turn this switch ON to operate Manual Wail instead.  
SW-6 Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) - Turn ON this switch to enable this feature. Also connect the  
auxiliary input to the horn ring or other switch. While the siren is in standby, tap the horn ring to  
bring the unit out of standby into Mechanical tone. Repeatedly tapping the horn ring will cycle  
through Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones. Tapping the horn ring twice quickly will stop  
the siren tones and return the unit to standby. Pressing and holding the horn ring will produce  
Horn tone until released. Then the siren will return to its previous siren tone or standby.  
SW-7 Wail Default - When the rotary selector switch is changed to Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail mode,  
the initial tone is Yelp. Turn this switch ON to make the initial tone Wail.  
SW-8 Short Manual - The Manual Mechanical or Manual Wail tone normally falls and dies out  
when the Manual push-button is released. Turn this switch ON to have the tone stop immediately.  
CP5015A  
09/09/08  
 
Page 6 of 12  
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
MOUNTING  
The mounting bracket supplied can be installed above or below the unit. Choose a mounting  
location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas. Inspect behind  
mounting area for clearance. Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Consider wire  
routing and access to connections, as well as microphone bracket placement. Install mounting  
bracket to vehicle using 1/4" hardware (not supplied).  
If mounting in a rack or console, make sure that mounting bolts do not enter case more than 1/4".  
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS  
Electrical connections to the unit are made using a removable terminal block plug located on the  
back. A label on the unit identifies the terminal function. You should install the plug on the unit  
before wiring. If the unit needs service the plug can be easily removed without unwiring.  
The power supply of the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for ade-  
quate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the vehicle  
battery. The unit is internally fused.  
Attach leads by stripping 3/8", inserting into plug and clamp by tightening screw. Make sure the  
screw is tight and the wire can't be pulled out. Failure to adequately tighten the screw can  
result in improper operation or burning the connector and wire.  
Wire Size and Termination - The diagram shows the minimum wire size used for each connec-  
tion, along with recommended lead color. If the wire is longer than 10 ft. use the next larger wire  
size. Use only high quality crimp connectors for installation on the vehicle.  
Radio Input Connection (Optional) - Connect 1 lead to each terminal of the radio speaker or  
output connector. The input is isolated and polarity is not important. May need to set Radio Vol-  
ume on front of unit.  
Auxiliary Input Connection (Optional) - The Auxiliary Input allows activation by an external  
source of either the Horn or Manual function. Typically connected to the horn ring circuit of the  
vehicle or other momentary switch. May need to set activation polarity.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.  
Cutout Input Connection (Optional) - The Cutout Input turns off any siren tone output when  
activated, and remains off until a face control is activated or changed. May need to set activation  
polarity. See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
09/09/08  
CP5015A  
 
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 7 of 12  
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS CONTINUED  
Horn  
Circuit  
HORN RLY  
Vehicle  
Horn  
+VDC  
or  
-VDC  
Auxiliary Input  
Momentary  
Connection Examples  
SPST  
Switch  
Splice  
Activated with  
+VDC  
or  
-VDC  
+VDC OR -VDC  
Added  
SPDT  
Switch  
Note:  
Vehicle horn will also  
sound with siren  
Factory Default  
DIP SW-2 ON for +VDC  
Vehicle  
Horn  
To  
AUX  
To  
AUX  
To  
AUX  
DIP SW-2 OFF for -VDC  
Door  
Switch  
Circuit  
Dome  
Light  
Cutout Input  
Connection Examples  
Momentary  
SPST  
Switch  
Activated with  
+VDC OR -VDC  
+VDC  
or  
Splice  
-VDC  
Factory Default  
DIP SW-1 ON for +VDC  
To  
CUT  
To  
CUT  
DIP SW-1 OFF for -VDC  
#22 AWG WHT  
(AUX) Auxiliary Input  
#22 AWG GRN  
(CUT) Cutout Input  
Connect to  
output jack, terminals  
or speaker of radio  
#22 AWG BLU (2 LEADS)  
#14 AWG RED  
(2 LEADS)  
RADIO  
+
-
BAT  
#14 AWG BLK  
(2 LEADS)  
100W  
Speaker(s)  
+
-
+
-
#16 AWG BRN  
(2 LEADS)  
Connect second speaker  
for same phase (+ to +)  
10-P Terminal Block Plug  
Plug installed  
this orientation  
(CP4688-10)  
20A Automotive Type Fuse  
is inside unit  
Plug into unit first for  
terminal identification  
CP5015A  
09/09/08  
 
Page 8 of 12  
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
OPERATION  
GENERAL  
This unit is designed for easy operation under the stress associated with high-speed pursuit.  
Most siren functions are accessible with one simple motion without repetitive activation of  
switches or automatic timed switching that can interfere with desired operation.  
SELECTOR SWITCH  
The 4-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating  
mode of the siren.  
Radio - Also known as Radio Repeat, this function amplifies a radio  
speaker input for re-broadcast outside the vehicle. No siren tones  
or PA operation are available in this mode. The radio must be  
connected and radio volume adjusted for this mode to function.  
Standby - A silent mode that may be overridden anytime with the  
Manual or Horn or PA operation.  
YPW  
MECH  
STBY  
RADIO  
Mech - A simulated mechanical siren tone used anytime.  
Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail - This mode provides tones by pressing the Manual push-button to step  
through the tones. The initial tone is Yelp or optionally may be Wail.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section.  
Wail - A slower changing tone used on highways.  
Yelp - A rapidly changing tone used in congested areas.  
Phaser - A very rapidly changing tone used at intersections or in highly congested areas. May be  
optionally replaced with Two-Tone which is two alternating frequencies like a European HI-LO.  
Rotary Operating  
Manual  
Switch  
Horn  
Switch  
Auxiliary Input  
Switch  
Mode  
Y->P->W  
Yelp  
Yelp->Phaser->Wail Loop Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option)  
(Wail start option)  
Mech  
Mech  
Silent  
Manual Mechanical  
Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option)  
Standby  
Manual Mechanical  
(Manual Wail option)  
Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option) (HRC2 option)  
Radio  
Radio  
Radio  
Radio Radio  
See OPTION SWITCHES section.  
MANUAL SWITCH  
This momentary push-button switch provides manual tone control  
or stepping through tones depending on the selector switch posi-  
tion. Manual tone control is used to momentarily alert motorists or  
in low noise areas.  
MANUAL  
HORN  
Manual Wail - Manual control of Wail tone rise and fall.  
Manual Mech - Manual control of Mech tone rise and fall.  
HORN SWITCH  
This momentary push-button switch provides a simulated air-horn tone while pressed. This can  
be used to supplement the normal vehicle horn and is useful at intersections or in low noise areas.  
This tone overrides other siren tones.  
09/09/08  
CP5015A  
 
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 9 of 12  
MICROPHONE (PA Override)  
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any  
siren tone when push-to-talk button on the side of the microphone is pressed.  
PA VOLUME CONTROL  
With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume to the maximum level  
with no feedback (squeal).  
VOLUME  
H
L
H
L
RADIO VOLUME CONTROL  
With the vehicle parked and the radio volume itself set to a nor-  
mal level, set the siren radio volume to the desired level.  
RAD  
PA  
AUXILIARY INPUT  
During installation an auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device.  
It provides the same operation as pressing the Horn button or optionally the Manual button.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
CUTOUT INPUT  
During installation, a cutout input may be connected to a door switch. It turns off any siren tone  
when the door is opened. The siren tone will continue to be cut off even when the door is closed.  
Changing any switch on the face of the unit will restore normal function.  
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (HRC2)  
During installation, the auxiliary input must be connected and the HRC2 option selected. While  
the siren is in standby, tap the horn ring to bring the unit out of standby into Mechanical tone.  
Repeatedly tapping the horn ring will cycle through Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones.  
Tapping the horn ring twice quickly will stop the siren tones and return the unit to standby. Press-  
ing and holding the horn ring will produce Horn tone until released. Then the siren will return to its  
previous siren tone or standby.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
CP5015A  
09/09/08  
 
Page 10 of 12  
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
SERVICE  
This unit is designed to provide years of reliable service under even the worst conditions. Many  
times there may appear to be a problem with the unit when the true problem is in the speaker(s)  
or improper installation. The following chart shows typical symptoms and possible causes.  
A blown internal fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker lead  
is shorted the internal fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and  
replace the fuse. If the OUTPUT light comes on (dim lighting to see) with power on and Yelp  
selected it is OK. Check the speaker(s) or leads for possible shorting.  
PROBLEMS  
Symptom  
Possible Cause  
Check  
Does backlighting come on?  
No power or siren Power switch not turned on  
output  
Bad speaker(s)  
Do you hear a "pop" when turned on?  
Connector loose  
Internal fuse blown  
Loose connection at power source  
High Voltage Protection  
Mic button stuck  
Is the OUTPUT light on front panel coming on in Yelp?  
Is an external fuse or circuit breaker used?  
Are the negative leads connected to a good ground?  
Input voltage must be less than highest rated voltage.  
Does mic button release properly?  
No siren tone -  
PA works  
Cutout activated  
Does the siren work when Cutout input is disconnected?  
Is the option switch properly configured?  
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?  
PA is not available in the Radio position  
Cutout Polarity Option set wrong  
PA volume not set properly  
Selector in Radio position  
No PA  
Distorted siren  
sound  
Speaker assembly loose  
Intermittent Aux Input connection  
Low vehicle voltage  
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?  
Is the Auxiliary Input used and wired properly?  
Input voltage must be greater than lowest rated voltage.  
Is the vehicle voltage regulator working properly?  
Is the connector tight on the back of the unit?  
Is there a loose connection on a power lead?  
Is something lying on the microphone?  
Intermittent siren High Voltage Protection  
tone  
Connector loose  
Bad power connection  
Mic button activation  
Circuit breaker in supply connection Is a circuit breaker used with at least a 50A rating?  
Horn function  
or  
Manual function Aux Input improperly connected  
stuck on  
No Radio  
Horn switch stuck  
Manual switch stuck  
Does the Horn switch return fully when released?  
Does the Manual switch return fully when released?  
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?  
Is the option switch properly configured?  
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?  
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?  
Aux Input Polarity Option set wrong  
Unit not connected to radio  
Radio volume too low  
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?  
Wrong siren tone Two-Tone option installed  
Aux Input set to wrong function  
Is the Two-Tone option switch selected?  
Is the Auxiliary Input option switch configured properly?  
Is the Manual Wail option switch selected?  
Manual Wail option installed  
or contact our Service Department at:  
E-mail [email protected] or Phone (888) 577-6877  
09/09/08  
CP5015A  
 
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 11 of 12  
PARTS and ACCESSORIES  
The following parts and accessories are available from Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.:  
Part  
Description  
CP5017  
CP4684  
Button, Switch Cap Chrome (for push-button switch)  
Control, 1K Vertical w/ Knurled Shaft (PA and Radio Volume)  
Cover (not including chassis)  
CP4680-1  
ATO/ATC 20A  
CP4852  
Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive  
Knob, Selector Switch  
CP5016  
Label, SA-500-27 Front Panel  
CP4750  
Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector  
Microphone Strain Relief  
SR-15-1  
CP4685  
Switch, Momentary Push Button (Manual and Horn)  
Switch, Power Rocker  
CP3962  
CP4683  
Switch, Rotary 4-Pos. Selector  
CP4119  
Transistor, output (2 required)  
Accessory  
CP3633  
Description  
* - standard accessory supplied with unit  
*
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws  
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount  
CP3571  
CP3966  
ED1756  
*
*
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (typically 2 ea required)  
Cable, 10-P Lead Assembly 8FT (made w/ CP4688-10 Conn)  
Connector, 10-P Terminal Block Plug  
CP4688-10  
*
ED1558  
CP5015  
*
*
Hardware Kit (2 Bolts, CP3633 Mic Clip, CP4688-10 Connector)  
Manual, SA-500-27 Instruction  
or contact our Service Department at:  
E-mail [email protected] or Phone (888) 577-6877  
CP5015A  
09/09/08  
 
Page 12 of 12  
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions  
RETURN  
If you have any questions concerning this or any other Carson product,  
please contact our Technical Service Department at (888) 577-6877.  
Many issues can be handled over the phone. We can also be reached via  
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical  
Service Department to obtain a Returned Merchandise Authorization num-  
ber (RMA#) before you ship the product to Carson. Please write the RMA#  
clearly on the package near the mailing label. Be sure to provide a return  
address, contact and phone number, along with a brief description of the  
problem.  
LIMITED WARRANTY  
Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc. warrants this new product to be free from defects  
in material and workmanship, under normal use and service, for a period of five (5)  
years from the date of delivery to the first user-purchaser.  
During this warranty period the obligation of Carson Manufacturing is limited to repairing  
or replacing, as Carson Manufacturing may elect, any part or parts of such product  
which after examination by Carson Manufacturing is determined to be defective in mate-  
rial and/or workmanship.  
This warranty does not cover labor charges for removal or re-installation of the product.  
Fuses and lamps are not covered under this warranty.  
This warranty does not extend to any unit that has been subjected to abuse, misuse,  
improper installation or which has not been adequately maintained, nor to units which  
have problems related to service or modification at any facility other than the manufac-  
turer.  
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING  
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR  
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL CARSON MANU-  
FACTURING COMPANY, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR ANY  
INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY SUCH DEFECT  
IN MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP.  
09/09/08  
CP5015A  
 

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