Crown Audio MA-24X6 Advanced Features Options, Protection Systems, IOC Input Output Compara Tor

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Macro-Tech MA-24X6 & 36X12 Power Amplifiers

4 Advanced Features

and Options

NOTE: For detailed information about these Crown amplifier features, please consult the Crown Amplifier Application Guide, available on the Crown website at www.crownaudio.com

4.1 Protection Systems

Your Crown amplifier provides extensive pro- tection and diagnostic capabilities, including ODEP, IOC., “standby” mode, fuses (or break- ers), and special thermal protection for the unit’s transformers.

4.1.1Output Device Emulation Protection (ODEP)

Crown invented ODEP to solve two long stand- ing problems in amplifier design: To prevent amplifier shutdown during demanding opera- tion and to increase the efficiency of output cir- cuitry.

To do this, Crown established a rigorous pro- gram to measure the safe operating area (SOA) of each output transistor before installing it in an amplifier. Crown also designed intelligent circuitry to simulate the instantaneous operat- ing conditions of those output transistors. Its name describes what it does: Output Device Emulation Protection or ODEP. It not only simu- lates the operation of the output transistors but it also compares their operation to their known SOA. If ODEP sees that more power is about to be asked of the output devices than they are capable of delivering under the present condi- tions, ODEP immediately limits the drive level until it falls within the SOA. Limiting is propor- tional and kept to an absolute minimum—only what is required to prevent the possibility of output transistor damage.

This level of protection enables Crown to increase output transistor utilization while greatly increasing amplifier reliability.

Finally, this onboard intelligence is monitored in two ways. First, the front panel ODEP indica- tors show whether the amplifier is functioning correctly or if ODEP is limiting the drive level. Second, ODEP data is fed to the PIP connector at the back of the amplifier so advanced PIP modules like the IQ-PIP-USP2 can use it to make decisions and control the amplifier.

With ODEP you get the maximum power with the maximum protection—the show goes on!

4.1.2IOC (Input Output Compara-

tor)

The IOC circuit compares the output signal of the amplifier with the input signal. If there is any difference other than gain, then it is consid- ered distortion and the indicator comes on. The LED indicator will come on whenever there is distortion of 0.05% or more. An IOC condition may also be sensed by an IQ PIP module installed in PIP-compatible amplifiers.

IOC is designed to report any form of distor- tion. IOC not only checks the waveform for dis- tortion, but also reports input overload and even a protective action that mutes or shuts down an amplifier. With all of these features, IOC monitors the entire amplifier. When the IOC indicator is off the amplifier is definitely opera- tional and undistorted. IOC provides an on-line proof of performance.

4.1.3 Standby Mode

At the heart of the protection systems is the standby mode which removes power from the

high-voltage supplies to protect the amplifier and connected loads. The standby mode can be identified using the indicator table in Figure 5.2.

Standby mode can be activated in several situa- tions. First, if dangerous subsonic frequencies or direct current (DC) is detected in the ampli- fier’s output, the unit will activate its DC/low- frequency protection circuitry and put the affected channels in standby. This protects the loads and prevent oscillations. The unit resumes normal operation as soon as the amplifier no longer detects dangerous low fre- quency or DC output. Although it is extremely unlikely that you will ever activate the ampli- fier’s DC/low-frequency protection system, improper source materials such as subsonic square waves or input overloads that result in excessively clipped input signals can activate this system.

The amplifier’s fault protection system will put an amplifier channel in standby mode in rare situations where heavy common-mode current is detected in the channel’s output. The ampli- fier should never output heavy common-mode current unless its circuitry is damaged in some way, and putting a channel in standby mode helps to prevent further damage.

The amplifier’s transformer thermal protection circuitry is activated in very unusual circum- stances where the unit’s transformer tempera- ture rises to unsafe levels. Under these abnormal conditions, the amplifier will put the channel of the affected transformer in standby mode. The amplifier will return to normal oper- ation after the transformer cools to a safe tem- perature. (For more information on transformer thermal protection, refer to the following sec- tion.)

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Operation Manual

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Contents MA-24X6 Some models may be exported under the name AmcronUse only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table Important Safety InstructionsMA Series amplifiers require Class 2 output wiring TCF Technical Certificate No P4300CRI1.IWS Safety StandardCrown International, Inc Competent Body’s Name and AddressTable of Contents Welcome FeaturesHow to Use This Manual You may also stack amps without using a cabi- net SetupUnpack Your Amplifier Install Your Amplifier Choose Input Wire Balanced Line ConnectorsChoose Output Wire and Con- nectors Distance Wire SizeWire Your System System Wiring a Macro-Tech 36x12 is shownTurn up the level of your audio source to an optimum level Startup ProcedureConnect to AC Mains Precautions OperationOdep Indicator Front Panel Controls Indicators Dust FilterSignal/IOC Indicator Enable IndicatorInput Sensitivity Switch Power CordReset Switches Ground Lift SwitchProtection Systems Advanced Features OptionsStandby Mode Output Device Emulation Protection OdepCircuit Designs Grounded Bridge Transformer Thermal ProtectionCircuit Breakers Options PIP Modules Replace the PIP module and restore the powerInput Ground Lift Switch IQ-PIP-USP2 AdapterTroubleshooting Front panel has several helpful indicator LEDs FigureOdep and Signal/IOC Indicator States Theory of Operation Only ONE Channel Shown Specifications Weight Power Draw at IdleDimensions Output ImpedanceTypical Phase Response AC Power Draw Thermal Dissipation Following equation is used to calculate thermal dissipationAC Power Draw Thermal Dissipation Service Warranty 12/01Worldwide Except USA & Canada Crown Factory Service Information Nature of ProblemThis page intentionally left blank This page intentionally left blank Macro-Tech MA-24X6 & 36X12 Power Amplifiers

MA-36X12, MA-24X6 specifications

Crown Audio is a renowned name in the professional audio industry, celebrated for its commitment to innovation and reliability. Two prominent offerings that stand out in their lineup are the MA-36X12 and MA-24X6 power amplifiers. Designed for versatility and performance, both models cater to a variety of applications, ranging from commercial installations to live sound environments.

The Crown MA-36X12 amplifier delivers 36 channels of robust power, making it an ideal choice for larger systems requiring multiple zones of audio distribution. Its ability to provide a solid output ensures that every speaker in a setup receives the necessary power, maintaining audio clarity and preventing distortion. The MA-36X12 is engineered with a focus on thermal efficiency, utilizing advanced cooling systems to minimize overheating during extended use. Additionally, its compact design allows for easy integration into various environments, whether it be schools, conference centers, or places of worship.

On the other hand, the Crown MA-24X6 amplifier offers 24 channels of audio powerhouse capability. With slightly less power than the MA-36X12, the MA-24X6 is still no slouch; it provides exceptional sound quality, making it suitable for smaller installations or setups requiring fewer channels but high-quality delivery. The MA-24X6 features an intuitive user interface, allowing for seamless adjustments and monitoring of each channel's performance. This amplifier also comes equipped with integrated signal processing capabilities that enable users to fine-tune audio output according to specific acoustics and requirements.

Both models incorporate Crown’s proprietary DriveCore technology, which combines superior sound quality with greater efficiency in amplifying audio signals. This technology minimizes power consumption while maximizing output, ensuring that audio reproduction is both dynamic and clear. Furthermore, Crown’s Smart Amp technology enhances reliability by incorporating self-monitoring functions that provide real-time feedback on performance and status.

In terms of connectivity, the MA-36X12 and MA-24X6 amplifiers come with a variety of inputs and outputs to accommodate diverse audio sources and speaker configurations. Their rugged construction makes them well-suited to endure the rigors of live events and installations, ensuring they deliver consistent performance over time.

In summary, the Crown Audio MA-36X12 and MA-24X6 amplifiers exemplify the brand's dedication to quality and innovation in professional audio solutions. With advanced technologies and versatile features, they respectively cater to both large and small installation needs, making them reliable choices for audio professionals around the globe.
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