QSC Audio 3 Series Flexible System Architecture, Analog System Compatibility, DC Fault Protection

The Art of Reliable Design Protecting the entire amplifier without compromising performance is the essence of professional audio design.

PowerLight 3 Series amplifiers are pro- tected against thermal overload, prolonged over-current output, excessive AC current draw and excessive high-frequency output. To give you maximum headroom without burnout, breaker tripping or other “show- stoppers,” the system uses long time con- stants. Do you need “last resort” clip limiting with a very fast time constant that won’t af- fect program dynamics? PowerLight 3 Series amplifiers give you that choice as well.

Over-Current Protection Patent-pending circuitry in the PL380 mea- sures actual losses in each output FET and instantaneously clamps peak current to safe values. If over-currents persist, the limiter

will reduce gain to keep average current manageable. If the input signal is so ex- treme, or the load impedance so low, that limiting cannot prevent excessive long-term currents, the amplifier channel will mute periodically to reduce average stress.

AC Current Protection

At peak output, the PL380 amplifier’s PowerLight supply can draw up to 100 A at 120 V. To protect internal fuses, distro breakers, and power supply components, the system limiting will cut long term cur- rents to 30 A. AC protection does not occur on normal program material, even when the amplifier is driven into frequent clipping.

All PowerLight 3 Series amplifiers have relay-bypassed inrush limiting to keep turn- on surges from exceeding normal operating current loads.

High Frequency Protection

Most switchmode amplifiers mute when attempting to reach full power at 20 kHz, especially into low-impedance loads. The PL380 amplifier’s internal limiting will bring power down to a “mere” 1000 watts in this instance. This limiter can be observed on the bench, but real world compression drivers are unlikely to require these power levels.

DC Fault Protection

In the event of a DC fault, the PL380 amplifier’s PowerLight supply shuts down instantly to protect your drivers. You may need additional protection for compression drivers or other loads that can’t absorb all the energy stored in the PL380 supply.

Choose your technology, choose your system architecture. No matter what your choice, PowerLight 3 amplifiers will bring ultimate performance, reliability and design integrity.

Flexible System Architecture

Analog System Compatibility

SC28

(or other analog I/O processor)

PowerLight 3 Series Amplifiers

Analog Audio

With ample power and excellent cost, weight and rack space per watt, the PowerLight 3 Series is your best choice. Zero-latency throughput in the amplifier racks using QSC’s SC28 System Controller or your favorite DSP unit means your meticulous system alignment won’t be compromised.

Total Audio Networking Functionality

BASIS 922uz

PowerLight 3 Series Amplifiers

Digital Audio

Ethernet Switch

Additional Amplifiers Additional Loudspeakers

QSControl.net

Software

PowerLight 3 amplifiers are compatible with BASIS proces- sors and the QSControl.net network forming a compre- hensive system incorporating extensive DSP, digital audio transport plus amplifier monitor- ing, management and control.