Maxxsonics MLX-100 Troubleshooting A System, A ticking or whine that changes with engine RPM

TROUBLESHOOTING A SYSTEM

The key to finding the problem in a troubled sound system is to isolate parts of that system in a logical fashion to track down the fault.

Description of the Diagnostic system built into the MLX-100 Maxx-Link Bridging Module:

1.Clipping Indicator: Red Illumination when signal is clipped.

2.Normal Operation: Green Illumination, when signal is unclipped up to 9volts.

The diagnostic system will not shut down the MLX-100 or the amplifier(s), although the amplifier(s) own protection circuitry may shut the amplifier(s) down should a fault status occur. At which time you will need to consult the owners manual for that particular amplifier.

Low output power

1 - Check that level controls have been set up properly.

2 - Make sure that the battery voltage, as measured at the amplifier’s and MLX-100’s +12 volt and ground terminals, is 11 volts or more. 3 - Check all +12 volt and ground connections.

Fuses blowing

1 - Insure that the voltage to the unit does not exceed 15 volts.

2 - A short on the main +12 volt cable from the battery to the vehicle chassis will cause the main fuse to blow.

3 - If the MLX-100 is blowing fuses continually with only +12 volt, ground and remote leads connected, the unit may be faulty.

System does not turn on 1 - Check all fuses.

2 - Check all connections.

3 - Measure the +12 volt and remote turn on voltages at the amplifier and MLX-100 terminals. If these are non existent or low, take voltage measurements at fuse holders, distribution blocks, the head unit’s +12 volt and remote leads to localize the problem.

Noise problems

System noise can be divided into two categories, hiss, and electrical interference.

Hiss, or white noise

1 - High levels of white noise usually occur when level controls are turned up too high - readjust according to the procedures in the appropriate application section.

2 - Another major problem that can cause excessive hiss, is a noisy head unit - unplug the MLX-100 input RCA cables, and if the hiss level reduces, the source unit is at fault.

Electrical interference

The inside of an automobile is a very hostile electrical environment. The multitude of electrical systems, such as the ignition system, alternator, fuel pumps, air conditioners, to mention just a few, create radiated electrical fields, as well as noise on the +12 volt supply and ground. Remember to isolate the problem - first unplug MLX-100 input RCA cables, if the noise is still present, check the speaker leads, if not, plug the RCA’s back, and investigate the source driving the MLX-100, one component at a time.

A ticking or whine that changes with engine RPM:

1 - This problem could be caused by radiation pickup of RCA cables that are too close to a fuel pump or a distributor.

2 - Check that the head unit ground is connected straight to the vehicle chassis, and does not use factory wiring for ground.

3 - Try to supply the head unit with a clean +12 volt supply directly from the battery +, instead of using a supply from the in dash wiring/fusebox.

A constant whine:

This type of noise can be more difficult to pinpoint, but is usually caused by some kind of instability, causing oscillations in the system. 1 - Check all connections, especially for good grounds.

2 - Make sure that no speaker leads are shorting to exposed metal on the vehicle chassis.

3 - RCA cables are notorious for their problematic nature, so check that these are good, in particular the shield connections.

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