Parasound Operating the HCA-3500, Power Switches, Bi-ColorChannel Status Indicators

Operating the HCA-3500

Refer to Figure #1

Power Switches

There are separate power switches for the left and right channels. Press the upper side to turn each channel on; press the lower side to turn each channel off.

Bi-Color Channel Status Indicators

When you first turn the power switches of the HCA-3500 on, the Left and Right channel status indicators will light red for about five seconds while the internal circuits are stabilizing. After that, these indicators will change from red to green to signal that bothe channels are operational. Either the Left or Right channel status indicator may change from green to red if there is a fault that triggers the protection circuitry. This may indicate one of the following conditions: DC present at the amplifier's input, a speaker impedance overload, a short circuited speaker line, or a possible internal fault. If either indicator changes to red, remove power to the amplifier and check all connections. During this time, the protection circuits should automatically reset. If either Left or Right channel status indicators remain red after you reapply power, contact your Parasound Dealer, Installer, or Parasound Technical Service Department for further advice.

Current Overload Indicator

These indicators let you know if there is too low of an impedance at the amplifier's output thereby exceeding the amplifiers current capacity. During normal operation, the bi-color Left and Right channels indicators for the will be green and the Current Overload indicator will remain off. If either channel is driven beyond its maximum current capacity because the impedance for that channel is too low, the Current Overload indicator will light red and the affected channel's indicator will change from green to red.

High Temp Indicator

This indicator will light when either of the external heatsinks reaches 90 degrees centigrade. If the High Temp indicator lights, it probably means that the amplifier has inadequate ventilation. If either channel is driven beyond its thermal capacity, the High Temp indicator will light red and the affected channel's indicator will change from green to red. Refer to page 6 for more information about proper ventilation. Once the heatsink cools below 90 degrees, the amplifier channel will automatically reset and resume normal operation.

Maintaining Your Parasound Amplifier

Your Parasound power amplifier requires no periodic maintenance and has no user serviceable parts inside. To avoid the risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover. The amplifier's exterior can easily be cleaned with a soft cloth moistened only with a few drops of water or glass cleaner.

Main Power Fuses

There is an external fuse for each channel on the rear panel. These fuses protect the unit from possible damage to internal parts. Never replace fuses with a higher value than installed from the factory. Substitution of larger fuses may create serious stress and damage to internal parts and will void your warranty.

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