Carson Stereo Amplifier SA 400 17 User Manual

Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.  
5451 North Rural Street  
Indianapolis, IN 46220  
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667  
SA-400-17  
SIREN AMPLIFIER  
WITH MECHANICAL TONE  
RADIO  
SIREN  
PA  
VOL  
STBY  
MECH  
WAIL  
SA-400  
O
F
YELP  
O
N
F
PHASER  
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING  
INSTRUCTIONS  
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.  
 
SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 3 of 12  
GENERAL DESCRIPTION  
The SA-400 Siren Amplifier with Mechanical Tone is a premium unit designed for single or dual  
100W speaker use. A 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating modes of  
Radio, Standby, Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser. Two-Tone may optionally replace Phaser.  
A Siren push-button switch is provided for Manual control of the output tone or Horn override,  
depending on the selector switch and option switch settings. An independent rocker switch con-  
trols power. A permanently mounted noise canceling PA microphone with front panel volume  
control overrides all modes except Radio. An internal control is used to adjust Radio volume. An  
auxiliary input is provided for connection to a positive or negative horn ring circuit or switch, per-  
forming the same function as the Siren push-button. An internal 8-position DIP switch allows  
selection of various options. The front panel is backlighted with LED's for night visibility. This  
durable unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection systems for maxi-  
mum service life over a wide temperature range.  
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 = 435Hz & 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 Temperature  
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  
6-position rotary mode switch (Radio, Standby, Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and  
Phaser)  
Momentary push-button Siren switch.  
Front panel mounted PA volume control, internal Radio adjust  
Auxiliary input for positive or negative connection.  
Internal 8-position DIP switch option selector.  
Connections (9-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Auxiliary  
Size  
6-1/8" Wide, 5-3/8" Deep, 2-1/2" High  
5-1/2 LBS.  
Weight  
CP5012A  
08/06/08  
 
Page 4 of 12 SA-400-17 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-400-17 14)  
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws (CP3633)  
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount (CP3571)  
2
1
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (CP3966)  
Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT (CP2560)  
1
Instruction Manual (CP5012 This Manual)  
08/06/08  
CP5012A  
 
SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 5 of 12  
OPTION SWITCHES  
SIDE VIEW  
An internal 8-position DIP switch on the circuit  
board may be changed to select various op-  
tions. The cover for the unit must be removed  
to access the DIP switch.  
COVER REMOVED  
Accessing Option Switches - The cover is  
held in place by a snap-fastener on the back of  
the unit. While holding the cover on the sides  
press hard with your fingers on the back of the  
unit. The chassis will slide out the front.  
OPTION SWITCHES  
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.  
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
ON  
Default Setting Shown  
SW-7 and SW-8 ON  
SW-1 Two-Tone - Turn this switch on to replace Phaser with Two-Tone.  
.
SW-2 Mechanical Override - Pressing the Siren push-button normally produces Horn tone while  
the rotary selector switch is in Mechanical. Turn this switch on to manually override Mechanical  
tone instead.  
SW-3  
SW-4  
Siren push-button and Auxiliary Input Function  
with Rotary Selector Switch in Standby  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
(Default) Produces Horn tone while pressed.  
Manual control of Mechanical tone.  
Also Mechanical tone continues to fall when Rotary Selector  
Switch is changed from Mechanical Position.  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
ON  
Manual control of Wail tone.  
Activates Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) function.  
SW-5 Not Used… Leave Off.  
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (HRC2) - Turn on DIP SW-3 and SW-4 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-6  
ON  
SW-7  
OFF  
ON  
SW-8  
OFF  
ON  
Auxiliary Input Activation Polarity  
Positive and Negative Activation (Traditional Auxiliary)  
Positive Only Activation (Factory Default)  
Negative Only Activation  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
Traditional Auxiliary Input - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is activated with  
positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch is required for  
proper operation. Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.  
CP5012A  
08/06/08  
 
Page 6 of 12 SA-400-17 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 the wiring harness supplied. If the unit needs  
service the connector can be easily removed without unwiring the harness.  
The power supply for the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for  
adequate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the  
vehicle battery. A fuse on the rear of the unit protects from overload.  
Disconnect vehicle battery before making any electrical connections.  
Extend leads using adequately sized wiring and terminals or splices.  
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  
VOLUME ADJUST on side of unit.  
Auxiliary Input Connection (Optional) - Used for Siren Control. Performs the same function as  
Siren push-button. Typically connected to the horn ring circuit of the vehicle or other momentary  
switch. See below for further details on activation polarity.  
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.  
Traditional Auxiliary Input Activation - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is  
activated with positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch  
is required for proper operation.  
Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
Polarity Selectable Auxiliary Input Activation - The auxiliary input may be activated with  
positive (+VDC) OR negative (-VDC).  
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.  
08/06/08  
CP5012A  
 
SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 7 of 12  
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS CONTINUED  
HORN RLY  
+VDC  
or  
-VDC  
Traditional Activation  
Momentary  
SPST  
Switch  
Auxiliary Input  
Connection Examples  
+VDC  
or  
-VDC  
Added  
SPDT  
Switch  
Activated with  
+VDC AND -VDC  
Vehicle  
Horn  
DIP SW-6 ON  
SW-7 and 8 OFF  
To  
AUX  
To  
AUX  
Horn  
Circuit  
Momentary  
SPST  
Vehicle  
Horn  
Polarized Activation  
Switch  
Auxiliary Input  
Connection Examples  
+VDC  
or  
Splice  
Activation  
-VDC  
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON  
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF  
Activated with  
+VDC OR -VDC  
Activation  
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON  
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF  
Note:  
Vehicle horn will also  
sound with siren  
DIP SW-6 OFF  
SW-7 ON  
To  
AUX  
To  
AUX  
(AUX)  
Auxiliary Input  
#18 AWG WHT  
Auxiliary Input is  
Low input current  
Less than 20mA  
Extend with #22 AWG  
#18 AWG BLU  
(2 LEADS)  
Connect to  
output jack, terminals  
or speaker of radio  
RADIO  
#14 AWG RED Use both leads  
Extend pair with #10 AWG  
+
-
BAT  
100W  
Speaker(s)  
+
-
+
-
#16 AWG BRN  
(2 LEADS)  
#14 AWG BLK Use both leads  
Extend pair with #10 AWG  
Connect second speaker  
for same phase (+ to +)  
Wiring Harness  
(CP2560)  
Automotive Type  
20 AMP Fuse  
Location BLK  
(2 Leads)  
Location BLU  
(2 Leads)  
Location WHT  
Location BRN  
(2 Leads)  
Location RED  
(2 Leads)  
CP5012A  
08/06/08  
 
Page 8 of 12 SA-400-17 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 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary oper-  
ating mode of the siren.  
RADIO  
STBY  
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 position.  
The radio must be connected and RADIO VOLUME ADJUSTed  
for this mode to function.  
MECH  
WAIL  
Standby - A silent mode that maybe overridden anytime with  
the Siren push-button.  
YELP  
Mech - A simulated mechanical siren tone used anytime.  
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. See OPTION SWITCHES section.  
PHASER  
Rotary Operating  
Activate Siren push-button or Auxiliary Input  
No Change  
Switch  
Mode  
Radio  
Radio  
Standby  
Silent  
Horn (Default) or Manual Mech or Manual Wail or HRC2  
(See SIREN SWITCH section)  
Mech  
Wail  
Mech  
Wail  
Yelp  
Horn (Default) or Manual Mech (See SIREN SWITCH section)  
Horn  
Horn  
Yelp  
Phaser  
Phaser Horn  
MICROPHONE (PA Override)  
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any  
siren tone when the push-to-talk button on the side of the microphone is pressed.  
PA VOL  
This control adjusts the PA volume. With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume  
to the maximum level with no feedback (squeal).  
PA  
VOL  
08/06/08  
CP5012A  
 
SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions  
Page 9 of 12  
SIREN SWITCH  
This momentary push-button switch provides Horn or Manual tone control.  
It can optionally control Horn Ring Cycler 2 operation in the Standby position  
if the HRC2 option is selected.  
SIREN  
Horn - A simulated Air-horn tone momentarily sounded.  
Manual Wail - Manual control of Wail tone rise and fall.  
Manual Mech - Manual control of Mech tone rise and fall.  
The Siren push-button optionally provides the following function while in Standby mode.  
See OPTION SWITCHES section.  
DIP  
SW-3  
DIP  
SW-4  
Siren push-button and Auxiliary Input Function  
with Rotary Selector Switch in Standby  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
(Default) Produces Horn tone while pressed.  
Manual control of Mechanical tone.  
Also Mechanical tone continues to fall when Rotary Selector  
Switch is changed from Mechanical Position.  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
ON  
Manual control of Wail tone.  
Activates Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) function.  
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 Siren push-button.  
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.  
RADIO VOLUME  
The radio repeat volume level is set using an adjustment inside the case  
just behind the PA volume control. Press on the rear of the case to open  
the unit Set the Selector Switch to the Radio position and turn on the  
power. With the radio volume itself set to a normal level, set the siren  
radio volume adjust control to the desired level. Turn off power and  
press the unit back into the case.  
RADIO ADJUST  
CP5012A  
08/06/08  
 
Page 10 of 12 SA-400-17 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 rear panel fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker  
lead is shorted this fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and  
replace the fuse. If the siren emits a sound when in the Yelp position 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  
Fuse blown  
Loose connection at power source  
High Voltage Protection  
Mic button stuck  
With siren on, yelp selected, listen for tone in amplifier.  
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  
No PA  
PA volume not set properly  
Selector in Radio position  
Speaker assembly loose  
Intermittent Aux Input connection  
Low vehicle voltage  
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?  
PA is not available in the Radio position  
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?  
Is the Aux 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?  
Distorted siren  
sound  
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 stuck Aux Input improperly connected  
on  
Siren switch stuck  
Does the Siren switch return fully when released?  
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?  
Aux Input is activated with positive or negative.  
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?  
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?  
No Radio  
Unit not connected to radio  
Radio volume too low  
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?  
Wrong siren tone Two-Tone option installed  
Is the T-T option switch turned on?  
or contact our Service Department at:  
E-mail [email protected] or Phone (888) 577-6877  
08/06/08  
CP5012A  
 
SA-400-17 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  
CP3965  
CP4732  
CP3547  
Button, Switch Cap Black (for Siren pushbutton)  
Control, 1K Vertical Trimmer (Radio Volume)  
Control, 350 Ohm Mini-Pot (PA volume)  
Cover (not including chassis)  
ES00026-03  
ATO/ATC 20A  
CP4852  
Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive  
Knob, Selector Switch  
CP4853  
Knob, PA Volume Control  
CP5013  
Label, SA-400-17 Front Panel  
ED1680  
Lead Asmb, Chassis Plug (internal)  
Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector  
Microphone Strain Relief  
CP4750  
SR-15-1  
CP5014  
Nut, 1/4-40 Dress (for Siren pushbutton)  
Switch, Momentary Push Button, Right Angle (Siren Pushbutton)  
Switch, Power Rocker  
CP4822  
CP3962  
CP3548  
Switch, Rotary 6-Pos. Selector  
CP4119  
Transistor, output (2 required)  
Accessory  
Description  
* - standard accessory supplied with unit  
CP4899  
Bracket, Flush Mounting  
CP3633  
CP3571  
CP3966  
CP2560  
CP5012  
*
*
*
*
*
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws  
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount  
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (typically 2 ea required)  
Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT  
Manual, SA-400-17 Instruction  
or contact our Service Department at:  
E-mail [email protected] or Phone (888) 577-6877  
CP5012A  
08/06/08  
 
Page 12 of 12 SA-400-17 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.  
08/06/08  
CP5012A  
 

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