AMX ALR-AMP-8 User manual

Instruction Manual
Distributed Audio
ALR-AMP-8
Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Last Revised: 4/12/2014

AMX DOMESTIC CHANNEL PARTNER and END CUSTOMER LIMITED
WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER AND LICENSE
(Excerpt from CHANNEL PARTNER TERMS AND CONDITIONS Versions 11.17.2011 with updates for previous version
8.25.2010 [sections 6.1 (a), (b) and (f)])
Definitions
“End Customer” means an authorized end customer with direct in warranty privileges from AMX. Within this limited warranty,
disclaimer and license document, “End Customer” shall have the same meaning as “Channel Partner” with the noted exceptions
of Sections 6.5 through 6.9 which are not applicable or available to End Customer’s directly from AMX. Offerings described in
Sections 6.5 through 6.9 are available to End Customer only through their selected authorized AMX Channel Partner.
6. LIMITED WARRANTY; RETURN, REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT
6.1 AMX warrants the Products to be free of material defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for three (3)
years from the Shipping Date (or such other period as may be specified below), subject to the following limitations and
exceptions (“Limited Warranty”). For any Product, “Warranty Period” means the period during which the Limited Warranty
is in effect, as set forth herein.
(a) LCD and LED panels are warranted for three (3) years from the Shipping Date, except for the display and touch
overlay components, which are warranted for a period of one (1) year from the Shipping Date.
(b) Disk drive mechanisms, pan/tilt heads and external power supplies are warranted for a period of one (1) year from the
Shipping Date.
(c) AMX lighting Products are warranted to switch on and off any load that is properly connected to our lighting Products,
as long as the AMX lighting Products are under warranty. AMX also warrants the control of dimmable loads that are
properly connected to our lighting Products. The dimming performance or quality thereof is not warranted, due to the
random combinations of dimmers, lamps and ballasts or transformers.
(d) AMX software and firmware included in the Products is warranted for a period of ninety (90) days from the Shipping
Date.
(e) Batteries and incandescent lamps are not covered under the Limited Warranty.
(f) The Warranty Period for AMX AutoPatch EPICA, Enova DGX, Modula, Modula Series 4, Modula Cat Pro Series and
8Y-3000 Product models will continue for the original installation until five (5) years after the issuance of a PDN with
respect to termination of the applicable Product model. However, if the Product is moved from its original installation
to a different installation, the Warranty Period will automatically become three (3) years from the Shipping Date and, if
more than three (3) years have elapsed since the Shipping Date, the Warranty Period will automatically expire.
DLI-6293353v1
Note: Refer to www.amx.com to view/download the latest complete AMX Warranty and Return Policies.

a
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read the instructions.
2. Keep the instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow the instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean this apparatus only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that
produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug. The grounding plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician
for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is
used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as
power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has
been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. The appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device and shall remain readily operable.
Please adhere to all of the following safety instructions:
WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to
rain or moisture.
WARNING! This apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective
earthing connection.
WARNING! This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no objects
filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
DANGER! No user serviceable parts inside. Service is to be performed only by AMX.
Safety Symbol Definitions
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the
product.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to
the presence of non-insulating, dangerous voltage within the product's enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

bALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier

Table of Contents
i
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions.................................................................................... a
Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier .........................................................1
Overview .................................................................................................................. 1
Common Application....................................................................................................... 1
Product Features ............................................................................................................. 1
Product Specifications .............................................................................................. 1
Front Panel Components (LEDs) ...................................................................................... 3
POWER LED (Green/Red)............................................................................................................ 3
OC/CLIP LED (Yellow/Red).......................................................................................................... 3
THERMAL LED (Red) ................................................................................................................... 3
Rear Panel Components .................................................................................................. 3
System Diagram .............................................................................................................. 4
Controlling the Alero ALR-AMP-8 ................................................................................... 4
Installation ..........................................................................................................5
Mounting the Alero into an Equipment Rack............................................................ 5
Ventilation ....................................................................................................................... 5
Rack Mount Safety Instructions ....................................................................................... 5
Wiring and Connections............................................................................................ 5
Connecting Audio Source Devices................................................................................... 5
Audio (Signal) Inputs................................................................................................................... 6
SE/BTL (Stereo/Bridge Mode) Switches (1-8).............................................................................. 6
Connecting Input Devices in Stereo Mode ...................................................................... 6
Connecting Input Devices in Bridge Mode ...................................................................... 7
Connecting Speakers ................................................................................................ 7
Speaker Output Connectors ....................................................................................................... 8
Connecting Speakers in Stereo Mode ............................................................................. 8
Connecting Speakers in Bridge Mode ............................................................................. 9
I/O (Control Input) Port........................................................................................... 10
Pin 1 - Signal Sense ....................................................................................................... 10
External Signal Sense Switch .................................................................................................... 11
Pin 3 - 12V (In) Trigger .................................................................................................. 11
Pin 4 - Trigger (Loop Out) ............................................................................................. 11
Pin 5 - Local/Trigger GND ............................................................................................. 12
Pin 6 - 3-5V Logic Level Trigger .................................................................................... 12
3-5V Trigger Switch .................................................................................................................. 12
Pins 7 & 8 - Thermal Overload and OC (Overcurrent) Monitor Indicators ..................... 12
Pin 9 - On Signal Output / 12V Trigger ......................................................................... 13
On Signal Output...................................................................................................................... 13
12V Trigger............................................................................................................................... 13
Pin 10 - Status GND ...................................................................................................... 14

ii ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Table of Contents
On/Off Control (12V Trigger, 3-5V Trigger and Signal Sense) ................................ 14
Enabling and Disabling Zones................................................................................. 14
Applying Power to the Alero Amplifier .................................................................. 15
AC Power Plug Connector............................................................................................. 15
Entering Standby Mode ................................................................................................ 15
NetLinx Programming Example: On Signal, OC and Thermal Functions ................. 16

Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier
1
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Overview
The Alero ALR-AMP-8 8-Zone Power Amplifier (FG1104-01) features 16 distribution channels of true audiophile
quality sound and highly efficient, heat-dissipating Class D power amplification – all smartly designed to fit into a
compact 1RU chassis. Alero perfectly complements the AMX Precis DSP for a completely unified, whole-home
distributed audio source switching and amplification solution.
Whether you are listening to music in your home theater, your kitchen or by the pool – the experience is the same – life
changing. AMX equipped Alero with the same switching amplification technologies by ICEpower®, an independent
subsidiary of Bang & Olufsen a/s, that are also used by several of the world's premium home audio and automotive audio
manufacturers. And it's engineered to perform as well as it sounds.
Common Application
The Alero Power Amplifier is ideal for discerning audiophiles who demand the highest quality of multi-room distributed
audio.
Product Features
Audiophile Performance – Features the same switching amplification technologies by ICEpower®that are
also used by several of the world's premium home audio and automotive audio manufacturers
16 Channels at your Beck and Call – No matter how large or far reaching the property, you have 16
channels available for all kinds of zoning configurations
Available Output Power – 80 watts per channel at 4 ohms / 160 watts at 8 ohms bridged
More Room in the Rack – At just 1RU high, Alero offers you the ability to install more components in the
same rack
Cool Running – Class D amplifier technology ensures efficient heat dissipation and low power consumption
Product Specifications
FIG. 1 Alero ALR-AMP-8 Audio Amplifier
Alero ALR-AMP-8 Product Specifications
General
Number of channels 16 channels in 8 stereo Zones; each Zone can be bridged.
Output power • 80W per Ch. in SE, 4Ω(0.03%THD+N, 20Hz
– 20kHz)
• 160W per Ch. in BTL, 8Ω(0.04%THD+N, 20Hz
– 20kHz)
Signal sense Audio input sense, 12V trigger and 3-5V trigger
Standby power consumption Less than 0.25W
Audio
Amplifier • Amplifier Gain: The audio gain (20Hz to 20kHz) is 25.8dB ±0.5dB.
• Amplifier Input: The amplifier has a Single Ended input. Maximum input voltage
without clipping is 1Vrms.
• Amplifier Output: The amplifier uses a Single Ended output stage. Thus the
power output is GND referenced.
Maximum output voltage without clipping is 28Vp.
POWER LED (green/red)
OC/CLIP LED (yellow/red)
THERMAL LED (red)

Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier
2ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Alero ALR-AMP-8 Product Specifications (Cont.)
Audio (Cont.)
THD + N 0.003%, 4Ω, SE, f=100Hz, Po=1W
Dynamic range 110dBA SE, 115dBA BTL
Idle noise 50uV, A-weighted, 20Hz-20kHz
Upper bandwidth, -3 dB • 100 kHz, 4Ω, SE
• 120 kHz, 8Ω, SE
Frequency response ±0.4 dB, 10Hz- 20kHz, all loads
Input impedance 47K Ω
Output serial impedance 30m Ω, f≤1kHz
AC Mains Power
AC mains power Universal Mains 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz
Fuse rating T6.3A_H 250V
Power connection IEC320 C13 power connector with 3-pole detachable power cord
Thermal
Environmental operating temperature 32˚- 113˚F/ 0˚- 45˚C
Thermal dissipation Two low noise fans mounted in side panels
Thermal dissipation (heat losses) • 0.23 W/ 0.8 BTU/hr, standby
• 40 W/ 136.5 BTU/hr, idle, all ch.
• 100 W/ 341 BTU/hr, max output power, all ch. driven
Physical
Height 1U, 1.7 inches/44 mm (1 RU)
Width 16.7 inches (424mm) - Fits in a standard 19" equipment rack
Depth 8.98" (228mm) without connectors and 9.30" (236.3mm) with connectors
Weight 10.98 lbs (4.1kg)
Certifications •FCC
•CE
•UL
•IEC
• PSE
•C-TICK

Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier
3
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Front Panel Components (LEDs)
The front panel features three LEDs (see FIG. 1 on page 1):
POWER LED (Green/Red)
The Power LED indicates that the current power state of the amp:
Green indicates that the amplifier is On.
Red indicates that the amplifier is receiving power, but is in Standby mode.
OC/CLIP LED (Yellow/Red)
The OC/CLIP LED indicates that either the current of one or more of the speaker outputs has exceeded its maximum or
that the power supply is overloaded.
Yellow indicates an OC (over-current) shutdown of the amplifier output.- In the case of an OC event, the
amplifier will shut down to protect itself, and indicate an OC event on this LED (yellow) and the OC pin (pin
8 on the 10-pin I/O port - see page 10). An OC event can indicate a cable fault, installation fault or defective
speaker.
Red indicates an overload event with the Power Supply. The LED will light red if internal temperature
sensors on the power supply sense an abnormally high temperature, or if power supply over-current/over-
load/power-limit circuits are triggered. In either case, the power supply will limit the amplifier output to keep
the power supply within safe limits, while keeping the music playing.
THERMAL LED (Red)
The Thermal Protection LED indicates thermal shutdown of the individual zones (amplifier boards).
The temperatures of all the output channels are individually monitored, and if one or more of them reaches
the thermal limit (105°C) then the respective Zones will shut down and go into soft start mode
(Channels 1/2 = Zone 1, Channels 3/4 = Zone 2, etc), and the Thermal Protection LED will be lit.
The other Zones will continue to be active. When the temperature has dropped below the thermal threshold,
the respective Zone(s) start up again automatically.
Rear Panel Components
The rear panel provides all input, output, control and power connections (FIG. 2):
Refer to the Installation section on page 5 for connector details and wiring information.
The amplifier outputs are limited to 20A peak each in order to protect the power
stages against overload during a short circuit, or over-current event on the output of
the amplifier.
FIG. 2 ALR-AMP-8 Rear Panel
AC Mains
Mains Fuse
Power Switch
Speaker Outputs Audio Inputs
Stereo/Bridge Mode switches
Zones (1-8) On/Off
Control Input Connector
3-5V Trigger switch (High/Off)
(Zones 1-8 / CH1-16)
(one per Zone)
(Zones 1-8 / CH1-16)
External Signal Sense
switch (On/Off)

Alero ALR-AMP-8 8 Zone Power Amplifier
4ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
System Diagram
FIG. 3 provides a basic system diagram showing the Alero in a NetLinx System:
This example shows eight stereo audio source devices connected to the Alero ALR-AMP-8, and eight stereo Zones for
audio output.
The Alero also supports a Bridge Mode (BTL) configuration. Bridge Mode converts one stereo pair into a
single, stronger amplification channel. If all Zones are bridged, there are 8 channels available.
Stereo and Bridged Zones can be mixed as necessary (see the Connecting Audio Source Devices section on
page 5 for details).
Controlling the Alero ALR-AMP-8
Volume control for the Alero ALR-AMP-8 is managed by an external pre-amp / audio switcher, such as the AMX Precis
DSP (Fixed Matrix Switcher with Stereo Audio with RCA Digital Volume Control and Digital Signal Processing).
The Alero ALR-AMP-8 can be powered on and off externally by using the two signals 12V trigger and 3-5V trigger. A
Signal Sense function is also provided which automatically can switch on the Alero in the event of an audio signal and
switch off the Alero to enter standby mode when no audio signal has been present on the signal terminals for
approximately 13 minutes.
Refer to the On/Off Control (12V Trigger, 3-5V Trigger and Signal Sense) section on page 14 for details.
FIG. 3 Alero ALR-AMP-8 System Diagram
Note that the Alero ALR-AMP-8 requires an external preamp for volume control.
Alero
Stereo Speaker Pairs
(8 Zones)
NetLinx Controller
Precis DSP
Audio Switcher
Touch Panel
Stereo Audio Source Devices
with Volume Control
ALR-AMP-8

Installation
5
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Installation
Mounting the Alero into an Equipment Rack
The Alero ALR-AMP-8 can be mounted in a 19" equipment rack or on a solid flat surface.
Use the included removable rack ears and removable feet for mounting.
Ventilation
To ensure that the rack enclosure is adequately ventilated, there must be a minimum of 3" all around the Alero
unit.
Sufficient airflow must be achieved (by convection or forced-air cooling) to satisfy the ventilation
requirements of all the items of equipment installed within the rack.
Rack Mount Safety Instructions
Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to
uneven mechanical loading.
Consideration should be given to the connection of the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that
overloading of the circuits might have on over current protection and supply wiring. Appropriate
consideration of equipment nameplate ratings should be used when addressing this concern.
Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. Particular attention should be given to
supply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (e.g. use of power strips).
Wiring and Connections
Connecting Audio Source Devices
Source Devices connect to the Audio (Signal) Inputs connectors on the rear panel. (FIG. 4):
The Audio Inputs consist of 16 RCA/phono terminals; each of the single-ended input channels having a signal
input and ground.
Each Zone (1-8) consists of two channels (odd and even) that represent the left and right channels in a stereo
pair. For example, CH1 and CH2 represent the left and right channels for Zone 1.
The maximum operating ambient temperature is 45°C (113°F).
All speaker wire connections must be made with the amplifier off. The amplifier must
be off whenever you make changes to the input connections.
FIG. 4 Audio Input connectors (L/R pairs for 8 stereo inputs, 16 total)
SE/BTL (Stereo/Bridge Mode)
switches 1-8 (one per Zone)
Left Channel Inputs (Stereo Zones 1-8)
Right Channel Inputs (Stereo Zones 1-8)
CH1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15 are used for inputs in Bridge Mode

Installation
6ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Audio (Signal) Inputs
The following table provides pinout information for the Audio Inputs:
SE/BTL (Stereo/Bridge Mode) Switches (1-8)
The ALR-AMP-8 features eight SE/BTL slide switches (located between the two RCA/phono input connectors for each
Zone - see FIG. 4). These switches provide the ability to set each of the eight Zones to either Stereo Mode (SE) or Bridge
Mode (BTL). Note that by default, all Audio Inputs are set to Stereo Mode.
Stereo Mode (SE): In Stereo Mode, both channels are used for stereo audio input. Stereo mode provides true
stereo separation between the left and right channels in each Zone.
Bridge Mode (BTL): Bridge Mode uses one input channel of the amplifier to combine the power from both
channels output into one single output. In Bridge Mode, the odd channels are used for audio input and the
even channels are disconnected internally.
Connecting Input Devices in Stereo Mode
Stereo input devices use both input channels (left and right) for each Zone.
Odd-numbered channels (with white connectors) should be used to connect to the left output on the source
device.
Even-numbered channels (with red connectors) should be used to connect to the right output on the source
device.
The Alero ALR-AMP-8 supports up to eight stereo input devices, each one associated with an input Zone (1-8). Note
that each Zone represents a stereo pair. For example, Zone 1 consists of CH1 (left channel) and Ch2 (right channel).
There is a direct correlation between the audio inputs and the speaker outputs. For example, a stereo device connected to
the Zone 1 inputs (CH1 and CH2) will output on the CH1 (left) and CH2 (right) speaker outputs (FIG. 5):
See Also: Connecting Speakers in Stereo Mode on page 8.
Audio Input Connectors - Pinout Information
PIN Function Description Type
1 Signal + Single Ended Signal Positive Input
2 Signal GND Single Ended Signal GND GND
FIG. 5 Stereo Input Mode - Zone 1 (CH1 and CH2) is output on Speaker Outputs CH1 and CH2
Zone 1 (CH1 and CH2) Zone 1 (CH1 and CH2)
speaker outputs
From stereo source
device (left output)
From stereo source
device (right output)
Alero INPUTS (Stereo Mode) Alero OUTPUTS (Stereo Mode)
audio inputs
left right
When connecting stereo input devices, verify that the Stereo/Bridge (SE/BTL) mode
switch for the Zone (see FIG. 4) is set to "SE". This is the default factory setting.

Installation
7
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Connecting Input Devices in Bridge Mode
In Bridge Mode, input devices connect to the left input channels only. Note that left input connectors are white, and are
the odd-numbered channels (CH1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15).
There is a direct correlation between the audio inputs and the speaker outputs. For example, a bridged device connected
to the Channel 1 input (CH1) will output on the CH1 (left) and CH2 (right) speaker outputs - see FIG. 6:
See Also: Connecting Speakers in Bridge Mode on page 9.
Connecting Speakers
All speaker connections must use Class 2 Wiring.
Speakers connect to the captive-wire output terminals (CH1-CH16) on the rear panel (FIG. 7): t
Each Zone (1-8) consists of two channels (an L/R pair in Stereo Mode), and each Channel (1-16) uses a 2-pin captive-
wire connector to connect to speakers.
FIG. 6 Bridged Input Mode - Channel 1 is output on a single speaker connected to Speaker Outputs CH1(+) and CH2 (+)
CH1 input
CH1+ and CH2+
Speaker Outputs
From bridged
Alero INPUTS (Bridge Mode) Alero OUTPUTS (Bridge Mode)
source device
Zone 1 (CH1 and CH2)
audio inputs
When connecting bridged input devices, verify that the Stereo/Bridge (SE/BTL) mode
switch for the Zone is set to "BTL" as shown above (FIG. 6).
All speaker connections must use Class 2 Wiring. Class 2 Wiring is required due to
the fact that power is above 10W per channel under normal operating conditions.
FIG. 7 Speaker (Output) Terminals (16 total, L/R pairs for eight stereo outputs)
Zone 1
outputs
Odd numbered outputs = left channel (in Stereo Mode)
Even numbered outputs = right channel (in Stereo Mode)
(CH1/CH2) (CH3/CH4) (CH5/CH6) (CH7/CH8)
(CH9/CH10) (CH11/CH12) (CH13/CH14) (CH15/CH16)
Zone 2
outputs Zone 3 outputs Zone 4 outputs
Zone 5
outputs Zone 6 outputs Zone 7 outputs Zone 8 outputs
Zone 1 = CH1/CH2
Zone 2 = CH3/CH4
Zone 3 = CH5/CH6
Zone 4 = CH7/CH8
Zone 5 = CH9/CH10
Zone 6 = CH11/CH12
Zone 7 = CH13/CH14
Zone 8 = CH15/CH16

Installation
8ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Speaker Output Connectors
The speaker output connectors consist of two 16 pin captive-wire terminals; each of the output terminals having a
"+" and "- " terminal.
The label "BTL" on each speaker pair points to the pins that are used when connecting a single speaker to an input in
Bridge Mode (see SE/BTL (Stereo/Bridge Mode) Switches (1-8) on page 6).
See the Connecting Input Devices in Bridge Mode section on page 7 for details.
See the Connecting Speakers section on page 7 for connection details.
The following table provides pinout information for the Speaker Output Terminals
Connecting Speakers in Stereo Mode
Stereo speaker pairs use both output channels (left and right) for each Zone.
Odd-numbered channels should be used to connect to the left speaker.
Even-numbered channels should be used to connect to the right speaker.
The ALR-AMP-8 supports up to eight stereo speaker pairs, each one associated with a Zone (1-8).
FIG. 8 illustrates the wiring connection from both Zone output channels to a stereo speaker pair:
For wiring runs longer than 80 feet, 14-gauge speaker wire is recommended.
Speaker Output Terminals Pinout Information
PIN Function Description Type
1 OUT+ Positive balanced audio power output terminal Output
2 OUT- Negative balanced audio power output terminal Output
When connecting stereo speakers, verify that the Stereo/Bridge (SE/BTL) mode
switch for the associated Zone (see FIG. 5 on page 6) is set to "SE".
FIG. 8 Stereo Output Mode
Zone 1 Outputs (CH1/CH2)
In Stereo Mode, each speaker (L/R)
connects to both channels in a Zone
Left Right Stereo Speaker Wiring - INCORRECT
left right
USE CLASS 2
WIRING
If incorrect wiring is used there is a risk of electrical shock and a fire hazard.

Installation
9
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
The table below illustrates the direct correlation between the audio inputs and the speaker outputs in Stereo Mode:
See Also: Connecting Input Devices in Stereo Mode on page 6.
Connecting Speakers in Bridge Mode
In Bridge Mode, both channels in a Zone are connected to a single speaker, via the positive ("+") pins for both output
channels (labeled "BTL", as shown in FIG. 9):
The table below illustrates the direct correlation between the audio inputs and the speaker outputs in Bridge Mode:
Audio Inputs to Speaker Outputs - Stereo Mode
Zone Audio Input Connectors Speaker Output Connectors
1CH1 (left) / CH2 (right) CH1 (left) / CH2 (right)
2CH3 (left) / CH4 (right) CH3 (left) / CH4 (right)
3CH5 (left) / CH6 (right) CH5 (left) / CH6 (right)
4CH7 (left) / CH8 (right) CH7 (left) / CH8 (right)
5CH9 (left) / CH10 (right) CH9 (left) / CH10 (right)
6CH11 (left) / CH12 (right) CH11 (left) / CH12 (right)
7CH13 (left) / CH14 (right) CH13 (left) / CH14 (right)
8CH15 (left) / CH16 (right) CH15 (left) / CH16 (right)
When connecting a speaker to a "bridged" input, verify that the Stereo/Bridge
(SE/BTL) mode switch for the associated Zone (see FIG. 6 on page 7) is set to "BTL".
FIG. 9 Bridged Output Mode
In Bridge Mode, one speaker connects
L/R Bridged
to the "+" pins for each Zone
Zone 1 Outputs (CH1/CH2)
Bridged Speaker Wiring - INCORRECT
USE CLASS 2
WIRING
If incorrect wiring is used there is a risk of electrical shock and a fire hazard.
Audio Inputs to Speaker Outputs - Bridge Mode
Zone Audio Input Connectors Speaker Output Connectors
1 CH1 (left) CH1 (+) / CH2 (+)
2 CH3 (left) CH3 (+) / CH4 (+)
3 CH5 (left) CH5 (+) / CH6 (+)
4 CH7 (left) CH7 (+) / CH8 (+)
5 CH9 (left) CH9 (+) / CH10 (+)
6 CH11 (left) CH11 (+) / CH12 (+)
7 CH13 (left) CH13 (+) / CH14 (+)
8 CH15 (left) CH15 (+) / CH16 (+)

Installation
10 ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
See Also: Connecting Input Devices in Bridge Mode on page 7.
I/O (Control Input) Port
The 10-pin captive-wire I/O (Control Input) port is for external control and status indication (FIG. 10).
The following table lists the pinouts for the I/O port
The function of each pin on the I/O port is described below.
Pin 1 - Signal Sense
Pin 1 on the 10-pin I/O port is used for single-ended Signal Sense input (+). This pin detects an input signal from a
source device when the source device is active. Pin 1 (Signal Sense +) connects to one of the source device’s input
cables to provide a signal to the Alero when the source device is active (FIG. 11):.
FIG. 10 10-pin I/O (Control Input) Port with External Signal Sense switch
10-Pin I/O Port - Pinout Information
PIN Function Description Type Page Reference
1Signal Sense + Signal Sense Input page 10
2Signal GND Single Ended Signal GND GND page 10
312V Trigger In 12V Trigger Input Input page 11
4Trigger Loop Out Trigger Loop Out Output page 11
5GND Logic / Trigger GND GND page 12
63-5V Trigger Logic Level Trigger Input page 12
7Thermal Thermal Overload Indicator Output page 12
8OC Overcurrent Monitor Indicator Output page 12
9On signal On Signal Output Output page 13
10 GND Status GND GND page 14
FIG. 11 PIN 1 Example - Signal Sense Connection (Unbalanced)
Source Device
Pin 1 = Signal Sense + Stereo Inputs
ALR-AMP-8
Pin 2 = Signal GND
Pin 5 = GND
I/O Port
Ring = GND
Plug = +
(Stereo Outputs)

Installation
11
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
External Signal Sense Switch
With the External Signal Sense switch in the ON position (see FIG. 10), the amplifier is automatically turned on when an
audio signal is present, and automatically placed in standby mode when no audio signal has been present on the signal
terminals for approximately 13 minutes.
Note that the example diagram in FIG. 11 indicates the Signal Sense connection tied to the Left output from
the source device, but Signal Sense can come from either output.
The amplifier will power up if a signal is applied to the signal sense input. By default, the External Signal
Switch is set to the ON position.
Pin 3 - 12V (In) Trigger
The Alero can be turned On or placed in Standby mode externally via a 12V Trigger signal. A 12V trigger input is
accessible via Pin 3 on the 10-pin I/O port (FIG. 12).
Typically, Pin 3 connects to a relay pin on a Controller’s Relay port. For example, the connection shown in FIG. 12
would allow the Alero to be turned on/off programmatically via Relay #7 on the Controller.
Pin 4 - Trigger (Loop Out)
The Alero also provides a convenient way to daisy-chain a 12V trigger to other devices. Any voltage provided to Pin 3 is
looped out to Pin 4 of the 10-pin I/O port (FIG. 13):
Pin 4 connects to a +12V Trigger (input) on a downstream amplifier (see FIG. 12).
FIG. 12 PIN 3 Example - 12V Trigger (In) Connections
FIG. 13 PIN 4 Example - Trigger (Loop Out) Connections
NetLinx Central Controller
Pin 3 = 12V Trigger IN
ALR-AMP-8
Pin 5 = GND
I/O port on downstream ALR-AMP-8
Pin 3 = 12V Trigger In
Pin 4 = 12V Trigger (Out)
I/O port on first ALR-AMP-8
Pin 10 = Status GND
Pin 10 = Status GND

Installation
12 ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Pin 5 - Local/Trigger GND
Pin 5 on the 10-pin I/O port provides a ground connection for the 3-5V Logic Level Trigger. Pin 5 connects to the GND
pin of an I/O port on an external controller, such as a NetLinx Central Controller.
Pin 6 - 3-5V Logic Level Trigger
The Alero can be also turned On or placed in Standby mode externally via a 3-5V Logic Level trigger signal. A 3-5V
trigger input is accessible via Pin 6 on the 10-pin I/O port.
3-5V Trigger Switch
The 3-5V Trigger Switch (FIG. 14) has two selections; High and Off.
When the 3-5V Trigger Switch is set to High, the amplifier will turn on when AC mains is turned on, For example, the
3-5V Trigger switch could be set to High if the amplifier needs to be forced on without having signal sense or external
trigger signals.
Pins 7 & 8 - Thermal Overload and OC (Overcurrent) Monitor Indicators
The Thermal Overload Indicator (OUT) signal can be used to send a Thermal message from the Alero to an external
controller (such as NetLinx Central Controller), if desired.
The OC (Overcurrent) Monitor Indicator (OUT) signal can be used to send an OC message from the Alero to an external
controller if desired.
A Thermal Overload Indicator signal is output on Pin 7 on the 10-pin I/O port. This pin connects to an I/O pin
on an external controller such as a NetLinx Central Controller (see FIG. 15).
An Overcurrent Monitor Indicator signal is output on Pin 8 on the 10-pin I/O port. This pin connects to an
I/O pin on an external controller such as a NetLinx Central Controller (see FIG. 15).
Pin 3 and Pin 4 are hardwired together. Therefore, when a trigger is applied to pin 3 it
will also be present at pin 4. Pin 4 will be high only if a signal is applied to Pin 3.
FIG. 14 3-5V Trigger Switch
3-5V Trigger Switch (High/Off)
The THERMAL and OC/CLIP LEDs on the front panel (see FIG. 1 on page 1) always
light to indicate these conditions.
FIG. 15 Example - Thermal and OC Indicator Connections
NetLinx Central Controller
ALR-AMP-8
Pin 8 = OC (Overcurrent) Monitor Indicator
Pin 7 = Thermal Overload Monitor Indicator
Pin 10 = GND

Installation
13
ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Pin 9 - On Signal Output / 12V Trigger
On Signal Output
Pin 9 on the 10-pin I/O port provides a continuous 12VDC when the Alero exits Standby Mode for On. When the Alero
is in Standby mode, Pin 9 falls to zero. When connected to an external Controller, this pin allows the Controller to be
aware of the On/Off state of the Alero.
For Signal Output, Pin 9 connects to an I/O pin on an external controller such as a NetLinx Central Controller (FIG. 16):
12V Trigger
Pin 9 also functions as a 12V on/off output trigger. In this case, it can be used to turn on or off other amplifiers, when
there are multiple Alero system in an installation.
As a 12V Trigger, Pin 9 connects to Pin 3 (12V Trigger Input) on a downstream Alero (FIG. 17):
See page 16 for a NetLinx code example that illustrates configuring the port (on an
NI-3100 NetLinx Central Controller) to properly monitor inputs from the On Signal,
OC and Thermal functions.
FIG. 16 Pin 9 Example Connection - On Signal Output Connections
NetLinx Central Controller
ALR-AMP-8
Pin 10 = Status GND
Pin 9 = On Signal (Out)
Refer to AMX Tech Note #777 for details regarding configuring the the I/O ports on a
NetLinx Master to accept a voltage input.
FIG. 17 Example - Thermal and OC Indicator Connections
I/O port on downstream ALR-AMP-8
Pin 3 = 12V Trigger In
Pin 9 = On Signal (Out)
I/O port on first ALR-AMP-8
Pin 10 = Status GND

Installation
14 ALR-AMP-8 Alero 8 Zone Power Amplifier
Pin 10 - Status GND
Pin 10 on the 10-pin I/O port provides a ground reference for the Output pins (7-9), and is required for any device that
needs to sense the potential.
Pin 10 connects to the GND pin of an I/O port on an external controller, such as a NetLinx Central Controller (see
FIG. 16).
On/Off Control (12V Trigger, 3-5V Trigger and Signal Sense)
The Alero ALR-AMP-8 can be powered on and off externally by using the two signals 12V trigger and 3-5V trigger.
A Signal Sense function is also provided which automatically can switch on the Alero in the event of an audio signal and
switch off the Alero to enter standby mode when no audio signal has been present on the signal terminals for
approximately 13 minutes.
The Signal Sense function consists of an audio detection circuit and a timer. If an audio signal of more than typically
1.3 mVrms is present on the Signal Sense terminals, the Alero will always be in the On mode. If none of the two triggers
are high and audio is not present at the terminals the timer will switch off the Alero after 13 minutes.
Enabling and Disabling Zones
The 8-position dip switch labeled "ZONES" provides the ability to individually enable or disable any of the 8 Zones. It is
recommended to disable Zones that are not being used, to lower power consumption.
To disable a Zone, flip the associated switch (1-8) from Enable (default setting) to Disable (FIG. 18):
The UP position enables each Zone; the Down position enables each Zone.
See page 16 for a NetLinx code example that illustrates configuring the port (on an
NI-3100 NetLinx Central Controller) to properly monitor inputs from the On Signal,
OC and Thermal functions.
Pins 1 and 2 on the 10-pin I/O port provide Signal Sense (+ and -) inputs. See the Pin
1 - Signal Sense section on page 10 for details.
When changing control signals from on mode to standby mode, there is a 200ms
delay before the main SMPS turns off. This is to provide time for internal circuitry to
power down in order to meet the standby mode current draw requirements.
FIG. 18 ZONES Dip Switch
Enabled (default setting)
Disabled