Camco Vortex Series User manual

VORTEX USER MANUAL
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.1
INFORMATION FOR USE FOR VORTEX 3 QUADRO
V3QUM_GB_2004-2005-R1_01-2005
© Copyright 2005 by CAMCO Produktions- und Vertriebs- GmbH
für Beschallungs- und Beleuchtungsanlagen
Fischpicke 5, D-57482 Wenden, Germany
Telephone [phone]

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.2 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1) Read the information for use (user manual).
2) Please keep this user manual in a safe place during the lifetime of the ampli-
er. The user manual forms an integral part of the amplier. Reselling of the
amplier is only possible if the user manual is available. Any changes made to
the amplier have to be documentated in writing and passed on to the buyer
in the event of resale.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this amplier near water (for example, in damp rooms or near a
swimming pool).
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the user
manual.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other apparatus that produce heat.
9) Protect the power cord from being walked on, pinched or damaged in any
other way. Pay particular attention to plugs and the point where they exit from
the amplier.
10) The amplier may only be used in accordance with the information provided
in the user manual. Before and during the usage of the amplier please ensure
that all recommendations, especially the safety recommendations as detailed in
the user manual , are adhered to.
The VORTEX–Amplier is designed for the amplication of pulsed audio
signals and the amplier should only be connected to speakers with an average
impedance that is not lower than the impedances specied in points 3.8.3, 3.8.4
and 3.8.5.
11) Do not place this amplier on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The device may fall, causing
serious injury, and serious damage to the device itself.
12) The amplier can only be disconnected from the power supply by removing
the plug, which must be freely accessible at all times. Unplug this amplier
during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13) Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel.
Servicing is required when
the power-supply cord or plug is damaged,
liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the amplier,
the amplier has been exposed to rain or moisture,
the amplier has been dropped or suffered damage in any other way.
the amplier exhibits a distinct change from its normal function or
performance.

EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS / SAFETY
CAUTION – RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK – DO NOT OPEN
WARNING – TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
AMPLIFIER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
CAUTION – HIGH VOLTAGE HAZARDS
EXIST WITHIN THIS PRODUCT.
REFER ALL SERVICING TO
AUTHORISED PERSONNEL
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
THE LIGHTNING FLASH WITH ARROW HEAD SYMBOL ALERTS
THE USER TO DANGEROUSLY HIGH VOLTAGE AT THE SPEAKON
CONNECTORS THAT COULD POTENTIALLY BE LIFE THREATENING.
THE LIGHTNING FLASH WITH ARROW HEAD SYMBOL, IS INTENDED TO
ALERT THE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF UNINSULATED DANGEROUS
VOLTAGE WITHIN THE PRODUCT’S ENCLOSURE
THE EXCLAMATION MARK IS INTENDED TO ALERT THE USER
TO IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS ALSO FOR MAINTENANCE IN THE
LITERATURE ACCOMPANYING THE AMPLIFIER
THE AMPLIFIER MAY ONLY BE CONNECTED
TO A SOCKET WITH A CONNECTION TO GROUND.
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.2
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.3
1. Read the information for use (user manual)
When shipping the VORTEX amplier, always use the original shipping carton
and packing materials. For maximum protection, repack the unit as it was origi-
nally packed at the factory.
2. Environments
Use this amplier only in E1, E2, E3 or E4 environments according to EN55103-2
– Electromagnetic compatibility – Product-family norm for audio, video and
audio-visual installations as well as for studio-and lighting-control inastallations
for professional applications – Part 2: Immunity.
3. Ventilation
Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation, to ensure reliable
operation of the amplier and to protect it from overheating. These openings
must not be blocked or covered. This amplier should not be installed unless
proper ventilation is provided or manufacturer’s instructions have been
adhered to.
4. Water And Moisture
Do not use this amplier near water (for example, in damp rooms or near a
swimming pool).
5. Cleaning
Unplug this amplier from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or
aerosol cleaners.
6. Power-cord Protection
Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on
or pinched by items placed upon them or against them, paying particular atten-
tion to cords and plugs, and the point where they exit from the amplier.

SAFETY
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.4 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.5
7. Lightning
For added protection of this amplier during lightning storms, or when it is
left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall
outlet. This will prevent damage to the amplier due to lightning and power-
line surges. Disconnection from the mains power supply can only be achieved
by removing the plug from the mains socket and by external disconnecting all
poles from the mains.
8. Interference of external objects and/or liquids with the appliance
Never push objects of any kind into this amplier through openings as they may
touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a re or
electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the amplier.
9. Accessories
Do not place this amplier on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table.
The amplier may fall, causing serious injury, and serious damage to the product.
Any mounting of the amplier should follow the manufacturers instructions,
and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.
10. Connecting
When you connect the amplier to other equipment, turn off the power and
unplug all of the equipment from the supply source. Failure to do so may cause
an electric shock and serious personal injury. Read the user manual of the other
equipment carefully and follow the instructions when making the connections.
11. Sound Volume
Reduce the volume to minimum before you turn on the amplier to prevent
sudden high levels of noise (decibel) which may cause hearing or speaker
damage. (See also 4.2.1 Volume control)
12. Damages that require service
Unplug this amplier from the mains supply and refer to your dealer/distributor
or other authorised repair workshop if any of the following situations occur:
if liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the amplier
if the amplier does not operate normally as described in the user manual.
Operate the controls only as described in the user manual.
if the amplier has been dropped or damaged in any other way.
when the amplier exhibits a distinct change from its normal function or
performance.
13. Servicing
Do not attempt to service this amplier yourself. As opening or removing covers
may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards, the amplier may only
be opened by qualied personnel. Please refer to your dealer/distributor.
14. Servicing and Replacement Parts
All service and repair work must be carried out by a CAMCO authorised dealer.
When replacement parts are required, please ensure that the dealer/distributor
only uses replacement parts specied by the manufacturer. The use of un-
authorized replacement parts may result in injury and/or damage through re
or electric shock or other electricity-related hazards.
15. Safety Check
Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the dealer/
distributor to perform safety checks to determine that the amplier is in proper
operating condition.
Recommendations on how to carry out the safety test can be found in DIN VDE
0701-1 Maintenance, Modication and Test of Electronic Appliances.

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.4 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.5
EC Declaration of Conformity in accordance to EC Directives:
electro-magnetic compatibility (Council Directive 89/336/EEC,
as amended by Directives 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC);
low-voltage electrical equipment (Council Directive 73/23/EEC )
Manufacturers Name:
CAMCO Produktions- und Vertriebs- GmbH
für Beschallungs- und Beleuchtungsanlagen
Manufacturers Address:
Fischpicke 5, D-57482 Wenden – Germany
Declares that the product with the model name:
CAMCO Power amplier VORTEX-3-QUADRO
Conforms to the following standards:
EN60065 Security
EN55103-1 Emission
EN55103-2 Immunity
The operating conditions and application environments presupposed in the
information for use (user manual) are to be kept accordingly.
Please Note: The following formulations have been chosen:
VORTEX-3-QUADRO for the type plate and for the EC declaration of conformity.
VORTEX 3 QUADRO for the front face of the appliance and for the text in the
user manual.
Wenden, 09.12.2004
Joachim Stöcker

CONTENTS
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.6 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.7
IMPORTANT SAFETEY INSTRUCTIONS
EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS / SAFETY
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
CONTENTS
1 WELCOME
1.1 Welcome to CAMCO
1.2 Unpacking
1.3 The Amplifier
2 FACILITIES
2.1 VORTEX 3 QUADRO – The Front
2.2 VORTEX 3 QUADRO – The Rear
2.3 Factory settings
3 INSTALLATION
3.1 On/Off Switch
3.2 Precautions
3.3 Mounting
3.4 Cooling
3.5 Ground Lift
3.6 Mode Indicators
3.7 Mode Selector
3.8 Basic Concepts
3.8.1 Stereo
3.8.2 Parallel-Mono
3.8.3 Mono-Bridge
3.9 Wiring
3.9.1 XLR Connection
3.9.2 SPEAKON Connection
3.9.3 Four-Channel Operation
3.9.4 Three-Channel Operation
3.9.4.1 Stereo / Parallel-Mono
3.9.4.2 Stereo / Mono-Bridge
3.9.5 Two-Channel Operation
3.9.5.1 Parallel-Mono / Parallel-Mono
3.9.5.2 Mono-Bridge / Mono-Bridge
3.9.5.3 Parallel-Mono / Mono-Bridge
4 OPERATION
4.1 Precautions
4.2 Controls
4.2.1 Volume Control
4.2.2 Gain Selector
4.2.3 Limiter Switch
4.3 Indicators
4.3.1 On LEDs (multifunctional)
4.3.2 Signal LEDs
4.3.3 Clip LEDs (multifunctional)
4.4 Power Amp Protection Systems
4.4.1 Clip Limiter
4.4.2 Under Impedance Limiter
4.4.3 SOA Protection
4.4.4 Speaker Protect Limiter
4.4.5 DC Protection
4.4.6 DC Servo
4.4.7 Over Current Protection
4.4.8 Thermal Protection
4.5 Mains Protection
4.5.1 Inrush Current Limitation
4.5.2 Mains Over Voltage Detection
4.5.3 Mains Failure Detection
4.5.4 Fuse Protection
4.6 Main SMPS Protection
4.6.1 Over Current Protection
4.6.2 Thermal Protection
4.7 Fans
4.8 Filter Cleaning
5 OPTIONS
5.1 CAI (CAMCO Audio Interface)
5.1.1 Wiring
5.1.2 CAI Address Settings
5.1.3 CAI Status Indicator
6 TROUBLESHOOTING
6.1 On LED Flashing Sequences
6.2 Problem: No Sound
6.3 Problem: No Sound or Sound Is Too Low
6.4 Problem: No Channel Separation
6.5 Problem: Distorted Sound
6.6 Problem: Hiss
6.7 Problem: Squeals and Feedback
7 SPECIFICATION
8 MEASUREMENTS
9 WARRANTY INFORMATION
9.1 Summary Of Warranty
9.2 Items Excluded From This Warranty
9.3 What CAMCO Will Do
9.4 How To Obtain Warranty Service
9.5 CAMCO’s Product Improvement
10 SERVICE INFORMATION
10.1 Owner’s Information
10.2 Nature Of Problem
10.3 Expired Warranty
10.4 Shipping Address
11 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
12 DECOMISSIONING
COMPANY INFORMATION
P.2
P.3
P.5
P.6
P.7
P.8
P.9
P.10
P.11
P.12
P.13
P.14
P.15
P.16
P.17
P.18
P.19
P.20
P.21
P.22
P.23
P.24
P.25
P.26
P.27
P.28
P.29
P.30
P.32
P.36
P.37
P.38
P.39

1 WELCOME
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.6
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.7
1.1 Welcome to CAMCO
Established in 1983, CAMCO has gained worldwide experience with professional
sound reinforcement technology. Within the audio market, CAMCO specialises
in the production and marketing of high quality power ampliers and sound
systems for use both on tour and in static installations.
The success of the LA, DL and DX series power amps has made the CAMCO
name synonymous with professional quality, high performance and utterly
reliable power amps.
CAMCO’s commitment to research and development, seen not just in the area
of materials and technology but also most importantly in its highly skilled and
motivated workforce, is one of the keys to its ongoing success.
With its all-new VORTEX power amp series, CAMCO is pioneering a new dimen-
sion in professional power amp construction. The seamless combination of
groundbreaking technology with secure and proven elements is the hallmark
of the new series.
Welcome to the new world of professional power ampliers –
WELCOME TO CAMCO!
1.2 Unpacking
Please unpack and inspect your new amplier for any damage that may have
occurred during transit. If damage is found, notify the transportation company
immediately. Only you the consignee may initiate a claim for shipping damage.
CAMCO will be happy to cooperate fully as needed. Please save the shipping
carton as evidence of damage for the shipper’s inspection.
Even if the amplier has arrived in perfect condition, save all packing materials
so you will have them if you ever need to transport the unit.
NEVER SHIP THE AMPLIFIER WITHOUT THE ORIGINAL
PACKING MATERIALS.
When shipping the VORTEX amplier, always use the original shipping carton
and packing materials. For maximum protection, repack the unit as it was origi-
nally packed at the factory.

1 WELCOME
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.8 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.9
1.3 The Amplier
The VORTEX 3 QUADRO is a Class-H four channel power amplier with a power
output of 750 W per channel / 4 Ω load (1,5 kW in stereo / 2 Ω or 8 Ω load). These
four channels are subdivided in two stereo ampliers A/B and C/D which can be
independently set to stereo, Mono-Bridge or Parallel-Mono operation.
This feature guarantes the most exibility of the VORTEX 3 QUADRO.
It is supplied by Switched Mode Power Supplies (SMPS). These SMPS’s radically
reduce the weight and size (only 2U) of the amplier. Using SMPS, the 2 sym-
metrical supply voltages of the power amplier are more stable than the power
supplies used in conventional ampliers.
The VORTEX also uses three microprocessors for controlling and monitoring
the power amp. Controlling a power amp designed for use in modern sound
systems, has four main advantages over more traditional power amp systems:
Reduced Distortion
Improved Noise Characteristics
Integrated Remote Control
Indication of protection or failures by different LED sequences
The VORTEX has been designed as an intelligent and powerful product
for performing specialised tasks within a complex audio system. Users can
adapt the power amp to meet their specic audio requirements before use.
Controls mounted on the front and the rear of the VORTEX allow access to the
functionality.
Since some of the externally mounted controls have multiple functions, it is
important that users should familiarise themselves with the entire range of con-
trols and programmable features before using the power amp.
If you have questions about features of the VORTEX power amp that are not
covered by the basic descriptions in this manual, CAMCO would be pleased to
offer you further information. Alternatively, contact your dealer/distributor.

2 FACILITIES
24 26 2827 29
25
23 30
15 17 18 20 22
16 19 21
8913 14
10 11 12
1
23
4567
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.8 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.9
VORTEX 3 QUADRO – The Front
1 On LEDs (multifunctional)
2 Signal LEDs
3 Clip LEDs (multifunctional)
4 Volume Control – Channel A
5 Volume Control – Channel B
6 Volume Control – Channel C
7 Volume Control – Channel D
8 On/Off Switch
9 Enter-Switch (behind Front Panel)
10 CAI Status Indicator
11 Operating Mode Indicators ch. A/B
12 Operating Mode Indicators ch. C/D
13 Removable Air Filter System
14 Cooling Air Inlet Vents
VORTEX 3 QUADRO – The Rear
15 CAMCO Audio Interface (CAI)
16 Cooling Air Outlet Vents
17 Gain Selector ch. C/D
18 Mode Selector ch. C/D
19 Input Ground Lift Switch
20 Limiter Switch ch. A/B/C/D
21 Gain Selector ch. A/B
22 Mode Selector ch. A/B
23 AC Power Cable
24 SPEAKON Outlet ch. C/D
25 SPEAKON Outlet ch. A/B
26 XLR-Line Input ch. D
27 XLR-Line Input ch. C
28 XLR-Line Input ch. B
29 XLR-Line Input ch. A
30 Rating Plate

2 FACILITIES
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.10 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.11
2.3 Factory settings
VORTEX 3 QUADRO ampliers are delivered with the following factory
settings
Front panel:
Power switch Off Amplier is switched off
Rear panel:
Mode Channel C/D Stereo
Limiter SpP
Mode Channel A/B Stereo
Gain Channel C/D 26 dB
Input Ground Lift Grounded
Gain Channel A/B 26 dB

3 INSTALLATION
437,0 mm 446,0 mm 411,0 mm 76,2 mm
88,1 mm
442,0 mm
465,0 mm 76,2 mm
10,5 mm
10,5 mm
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.10 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.11
3.1 On/Off Switch
NOTE: This switch does NOT disconnect the amplier from mains.
The switch initiates start-up by activating the current limiting function.
As soon as the power amplier is connected to the mains power supply, a
voltage is supplied to both the line-lter and the fused input of the controllable
rectier. Disconnecting the amplier from the main power supply can only be
achieved by physically separating the amplier from the mains by pulling the
mains plug. The mains plug therfore has to be freely accessible. Disconnect
the mains plug from the mains during a lightning storm or when the amplier
remains unused or un-supervised for a prolonged period of time. Alternatively,
you can disconnect the amplier via an external all-pole disconnection from
the mains.
If a power cut occurs while the amplier is switched on, it will restart auto-
matically once the power supply has been restored. All settings operation prior
to the loss of power will be maintained.
Amplier ist switched off. Amplier is switchen on
(On LEDs are lighting up).
3.2 Precautions
When mounting or connecting the amp always disconnect it from mains.
3.3 Mounting
Use four screws and washers when mounting the amplier to the front rack rails.
For mobile use, the amplier should also be secured using the 19” mounting
elements on the rear panel.

3INSTALLATION
DO NOT REMOVE MAINS CONNECTOR GROUND
IT IS ILLEGAL AND DANGEROUS
to Pin 1
of the XLRs
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.12
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.13
3.4 Cooling
Under normal operation of the power amp, overheating should never be a
problem. The air is taken in from the front and out through the back, it is of
course essential that while the power amp is running air is able to circulate
around it freely.
The temperature of the cooling air will depend on the immediate environment
(e.g. an enclosed rack, direct sunlight) and on whether the front lter is clogged.
If the amp is installed in a case, the open area at the back of the case must be at
least 140 cm². This area should be in line with the amp.
If this can not be achived a forced ventilation system has to be used.
3.5 Ground Lift
The input signal ground (pin 1 for all 4 XLRs) is tied to the ground potential in
the mains supply. Opening the ground lift switch causes this connection to be
broken. This allows ground loops that sometimes occur in practice to be elimi-
nated. The ground potential of the power amp and therefore of the loudspeaker
outputs is independent of the switch setting and remains at the ground poten-
tial of the mains supply.
Removing or taping the mains connector ground is illegal and dangerous.
3.6 Mode Indicators
On the front panel there are two pairs of yellow LEDs (A/B, C/D) to indicate the
modes that are set to the ampliers A/B and C/D. In stereo mode none of them
will be lit. In Parallel-Mono the (PM) LED and in Mono-Bridge the (MB) LED will
be lit.
Example: VORTEX 3 QUADRO in three channel operation,
A/B is set to stereo (no LED lit) and C/D to parallel-mono mode (PM lit).

3 INSTALLATION
+
+
ch A(C)
ch B(D)
Input
Channel A(C)
Input
Channel B(D)
+Z ≥ 4 Ω
Z ≥ 4 Ω
+
+
ch A(C)
ch B(D)
Input
Channel A(C) Zres ≥ 2 Ω
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.12 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.13
3.7 Mode Selectors
The switches AB MODE and CD MODE on the rear panel change the operating
mode of the appropriate amplier (A/B , C/D). Moving one of these switches will
shutdown the VORTEX 3 QUADRO and restart it in the new operating mode.
3.8 Basic Concepts
The VORTEX 3 QUADRO consists of two Stereo ampliers A/B and C/D. Both
of them are capable to work independently in Stereo, Mono-Bridge or Parallel-
Mono. Following you will nd a description about these modes for amplier A/B
(in parenthesis the appropriate channels of amplier C/D).
3.8.1 Stereo Operation
Two fully independent amplier channels (normal operating mode).
3.8.2 Parallel-Mono Operation
Parallel operation of the two channels together.
The output terminals of the two channels are congured in parallel using an
internal relay. The (single) load is connected either to the output of channel A(C)
or to that of channel B(D) (as if in stereo). While the total output of the amplier
remains the same and the output voltage level is also the same as in stereo oper-
ation, the minimum impedance that can be connected is reduced by half due to
the fact that current capability is doubled. Only Channel A(C)-Input is active.
NOTE: For Parallel-Mono Operation, to prevent damage of one SPEAKON
connector and to reduce loss of power because of contact or cable re-
sistance, it is highly recommended to wire speaker loads using SPEAKON
connector with all contacts connected.

3 INSTALLATION
+
ch A(C)
ch B(D)
1+
2+
Input
Channel A(C)
Z ≥ 8 Ω
Input
Channel D
Input
Channel C
Input
Channel B
Input
Channel A
3
121
3
2
3
12
3
12
To Ch. D
input stage
To Ch. C
input stage
To Ch. B
input stage
To Ch. A
input stage
Input
Ground
Lift
Input Ground Lift in position:
grounded
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.14 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.15
3.8.3 Mono-Bridge
One-channel mono bridged operation.
The second channel processes the same input signal, but with reversed phase.
The (single) load is connected between the two positive channel outputs
(1+/2+) using a suitable connected SPEAKON connector. While the total output
of the amplier remains the same, both the available output voltage and the
minimum impedance that can be connected are doubled, as compared with
stereo operation. Only Channel A(C)-Input is active – turn the volume on
Channel B(D) down to zero.
WARNING!
In Mono-Bidge mode RMS output voltages are as high as 230 V. Wiring
to the speaker loads must conform to NEC Class 3 safety standards or its
equivalent that meets all national and local electric codes.
All customer specic cables may only be manufactured by qualied
suppliers/personnel. All cabeling or rewiring work must be carried out by
qualied personnel.
3.9 Wiring
3.9.1 XLR Connection
XLR: Pin 1 Ground (or lifted via 15 Ohm resistor)
Pin 2 Hot
Pin 3 Cold
Always use symmetrical (balanced) shielded cable to connect the amplier.

3 INSTALLATION
Input
Channel A
Input
Channel C
Input
Channel B
Input
Channel D
Right SPEAKON
Left SPEAKON
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.14 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.15
3.9.2 SPEAKON Connection
The SPEAKON connectors are connected as shown below.
Right SPEAKON: Pin 1+ Channel A speaker signal
(view from the rear) Pin 1 - Channel A speaker ground
Pin 2 + Channel B speaker signal
Pin 2 - Channel B speaker ground
Left SPEAKON: Pin 1+ Channel C speaker signal
(view from the rear) Pin 1 - Channel C speaker ground
Pin 2+ Channel D speaker signal
Pin 2 - Channel D speaker ground
WARNING !
SPEAKON connectors marked with the lightning ashes indicate high vol-
tages that are potentially life threating.
Wiring to these terminals requires installation by an instructed person or
the use of ready-made leads or cords.
Custom wiring should only be carried out by qualied personnel.
To prevent electric shock, do not operate the amplier with any of the
conductor portion of the speaker wire exposed.
NOTE:
For reasons of safety and performance, use only high-quality fully insu-
lated speaker cables of stranded copper wire. Use the largest wire size that
is economically and physically practical, and make sure the cables are no
longer than necessary.
IMPORTANT:
When connecting speaker cabinets in parallel, always use all the contacts
in both SPEAKON connectors. If not, this may cause permanent damage to
the connectors and considerably reduce performance.

3 INSTALLATION
+
+
+
+
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 4 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
+
+
+
+
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 2 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.16 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.17
3.9.3 Four-Channel Operation
Four fully independent amplier channels give the opportunity of use in several
applications, such as: multi-channel monitor systems, four channel reproduction,
compact amplication in active 2- or 4-way systems ...
3.9.4 Three-Channel Operation
Three-Channel Operation is the choice for eg. stereo systems with subwoofer or
compact amplication in active 3-way systems
With its capability to be set to Mono-Bridge or Parallel-Mono the VORTEX 3
QUADRO gives the possibility to be adapted to the impedance of your sub-
woofer .
3.9.4.1 Stereo / Parallel-Mono
With one amplier set to Parallel-Mono the VORTEX 3 QUADRO is capable to
drive a two ohms load.

3 INSTALLATION
+
+
+
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 4 Ω
≥ 8 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
+
+
+
+
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
≥ 2 Ω
≥ 2 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.16 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.17
3.9.4.2 Stereo / Mono-Bridge
If you have a high-impedance load you can set the appropriate amplier to
Bridge-Mono operation.
3.9.5 Two-Channel Operation
With ampliers A/B and C/D set to mono modes you will nearly have a normal
stereo amplier with the exception that you are able to choose either to drive
minimum loads of 2 Ohms or 8 Ohms.
3.9.5.1 Parallel-Mono / Parallel-Mono
To drive two 2 Ohms loads just set the mode selectors to Parallel-Mono
operation.

3 INSTALLATION
+
+
+
Vortex 3 Quadro
≥ 2 Ω
≥ 8 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
+
+
Vortex 3 Quadro
≥ 8 Ω
≥ 8 Ω
ch A
ch B
ch C
ch D
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.18
USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.19
3.9.5.2 Mono-Bridge / Mono-Bridge
With its mode selectors set to Mono-Bridge the VORTEX 3 QUADRO is able to
control high impedances.
3.9.5.3 Parallel-Mono / Mono-Bridge
It is also possible to set one amplier to Parallel-Mono and the other to Mono-
Bridge operation.

4 OPERATION

CAMCO PRODUKTIONS- UND VERTRIEBS- GMBH
~ 
    

USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO
P.18 USER MANUAL
VORTEX 3 QUADRO P.19
4.1 Precautions
Only connect the VORTEX amplier to an appropriate AC circuit and outlet,
according to the requirements indicated in the second row on the rating
plate.
Exemplary a rating plate of VORTEX 3 QUADRO
Power Supply Data:
Voltage Mains Frequency Current Power
Consumption
VORTEX-3-QUADRO 100 V
VORTEX-3-QUADRO 120 V 50/60 Hz 24 A 1800 W
VORTEX-3-QUADRO 220 V 60 Hz 7,8 A 1070 W
NOTE: Even under normal conditions the mains current can reach levels
up to 60 A (230 V) and 120 A (120 V), respectively; this could cause lamps
to icker if connected to the same mains as the amp. The impedance of
the AC circuit should be less than 0.157 Ohms to avoid icker according
to EN61000-3-11. (Electromagnetic compatibility – section 3 – 11: limits;
limitation of voltage changes, voltage uctuations and icker in the public
LV supply; equipment and appliances consuming more than 75 A current
are subject to special conditions for connection/installation) If in any
doublt, consult your local power provider. Never attempt to measure this
impedance level with your ohmmeter. This may damage your meter and
expose you to the risk of electric shock!
4.2 Controls
4.2.1 Volume Control
Two microprocessor-controlled DCAs (Digital Controlled Attenuator) with a
control resolution of 12 bits per channel is integrated into the signal path. This
means that the signal is not subject to an A/D followed by a D/A conversion with
associated losses. Each channel is governed by a linear potentiometer with 41
notched settings. These settings have been selected to correspond to human
hearing characteristics (logarithmically) and therefore guarantee an optimal
range of settings for practical applications. Each channel can be set individually
except when operating in mono mode whereby only ChA (C) is active.
Using an intelligent DCA control (Digital Controlled Attenuator) instead of
the “conventional” VCA results in considerably reduced distortion as well as
improved noise characteristics.
Set the volume to zero before turning on the amplier to prevent the occurrence
of sudden high volume levels which may cause damage to your hearing and/or
the speakers.
The volume pots are also used to set the CAI-address. (See 5.2.2 CAI Address
Settings)