Carson SA-400 Classic User manual

Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.
5451 North Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.carsonsirens.com
SA-400-10
SIREN AMPLIFIER
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.
RADIO
HORN
MAN
WAIL
Y
ELP
PHASER
SIREN
PA
V
OL
SA-400
O
F
F
O
N
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)

Page 2 of 8 SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions
06/06/05 CP4825C
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL DESCRIPTION....................................................................................3
SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................................................3
INSTALLATION .....................................................................................................3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................3
UNPACKING.....................................................................................................4
MOUNTING.......................................................................................................4
OPTION SWITCHES.........................................................................................4
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS.........................................................................5
OPERATION..........................................................................................................6
GENERAL .........................................................................................................6
SELECTOR SWITCH........................................................................................6
SIREN SWITCH ................................................................................................6
MICROPHONE..................................................................................................6
PA VOL .............................................................................................................6
AUXILIARY INPUT............................................................................................6
RADIO VOLUME...............................................................................................6
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (Optional) ..................................................................6
SERVICE ...............................................................................................................7
PROBLEMS ......................................................................................................7
PARTS ..............................................................................................................7
RETURN ...........................................................................................................8
LIMITED WARRANTY.......................................................................................8
NOTICE
Due to continuous product improvements, we must reserve the right to change any specifications and information,
contained in this manual at any time without notice.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this manual, including, but not lim-
ited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual.
INSTALLATION INFORMATION
MODEL: SA-400- ______________________ OPTIONS
SERIAL NO: __________________________ ______ Two-Tone enabled
PURCHASE DATE: _____________________ ______ Phaser disabled
DEALER: _____________________________ ______ Horn disabled
INSTALL DATE:________________________ ______ HRC2 enabled
INSTALLER: __________________________ ______ Short Manual enabled
__________________________________________________ Radio Input connected
__________________________________________________ Auxiliary connection/polarity
Model and serial number located on bottom of unit

SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 3 of 8
CP4825C 06/06/05
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SA400 Siren Amplifier is a premium unit designed for single or dual 100W speaker use. A 6-
position rotary switch controls the primary operating modes of Phaser, Yelp, Wail, Manual, Horn
and Radio. A Siren control button is provided for control of the output tone when in the Manual
mode, and control of Horn and Yelp Overrides, depending on the function switch setting. An inde-
pendent rocker switch controls power. A permanently mounted noise canceling PA microphone
with front panel volume control overrides all modes except Radio. An internal control is used to
adjust Radio volume. An auxiliary input is provided for connection to a positive or negative horn
ring circuit or switch, performing the same function as the Siren button. An internal 8-position DIP
switch allows selection of various options. The front panel is backlighted with LED's for night
visibility. This durable unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection sys-
tems for maximum service life over a wide temperature range.
SPECIFICATIONS
Input Voltage 9 - 16 VDC (negative ground)
Input Current 8 AMPS (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
16 AMPS (@14 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Standby Current Less than 150 mA
Audio Frequency 200Hz - 10 kHz + 3db
Audio Distortion Less than 3% (@1 kHz - single 100W speaker)
Audio Output 40 watts (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
Audio Input 400 ohms + 10%
Output Power 105 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - single 100W speaker)
180 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Siren Frequency 700Hz - 1500Hz (Two-Tone and Horn = 435 & 585Hz)
Tones / Cycle Rates Horn Wail Yelp Phaser Two-Tone
109 CPS 13 CPM 190 CPM 15 CPS 60 CPM
High Voltage Protection 16 - 18 VDC will cause siren output to cease, resume at normal
Short Circuit Current 50 AMPS (supply circuit must be capable of supplying this)
Operating Temperature -15° F to +140°F
Controls 6-position rotary mode switch (Phaser, Yelp, Wail, Manual, Horn and Radio).
Momentary push-button Siren switch.
Front panel mounted PA volume control, internal Radio adjust
Auxiliary input for positive or negative connection.
Internal 8-position DIP switch option selector.
Connections (9-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Auxiliary
Size 6-1/8" Wide, 5-3/8" Deep, 2-1/2" High
Weight 5-1/2 LBS.
INSTALLATION
Proper installation of the unit is essential for years of safe, reliable operation. Please read all
instruction before installing the unit. Failure to follow these instructions can cause serious dam-
age to the unit or vehicle and may void warranties.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For the safety of the installer, vehicle operator, passengers and the community please observe
the following safety precautions. Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may
result in property damage, injury or death.
Qualifications - The installer must have a firm knowledge of basic electricity, vehicle electrical
systems and emergency equipment.
Mounting - Mount the unit for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount in air bag
deployment area. Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle. To prevent internal damage
mounting bolts must not enter case more than 1/4".
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)

Page 4 of 8 SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions
06/06/05 CP4825C
Wiring - Use wiring capable of handling the current required. Make sure all connections are tight.
Route wiring to prevent wear, overheating and interference with air bag deployment. Install and
check all wiring before connection to vehicle battery.
Testing - Test all siren functions after installation to assure proper operation. Test vehicle opera-
tion to assure no damage to vehicle.
Keep These Instructions - Keep these instructions in the vehicle or other safe place for future
reference. Advise the vehicle operator of the location.
UNPACKING
Inspect contents for shipping damage. If found alert carrier immediately. Contents should in-
clude unit with attached microphone, wiring harness, mounting bracket, microphone bracket with 2
screws, 2 mounting bolts and these instructions. Contact supplier immediately if any components
are missing.
MOUNTING
The mounting bracket supplied can be installed above or below the unit. Choose a mounting
location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas. Inspect behind
mounting area for clearance. Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Consider wire
routing and access to connections, as well as microphone bracket placement. Install mounting
bracket to vehicle using 1/4" hardware (not supplied).
If mounting in a rack or console, make sure that mounting bolts do not enter case more than 1/4".
OPTION SWITCHES
Various options can be controlled by turning on
or off any of 8 DIP switches internally mounted
on the right side of the PC board.
Cover Removal - The cover is held in place by
a snap-fastener on the back of the unit. While
holding the case on the sides press hard with
your fingers on the back of the unit. The chas-
sis will slide out the front.
Two-Tone - Two-Tone can replace Phaser by
turning on the switch labeled "T-T".
Phaser Disable - The Phaser function can be
completely disabled by turning on the switch labeled "P_I".
Horn Disable - The Horn function can be disabled by turning on the switch labeled “H_I”.
Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) - This option allows selection of Wail, Yelp, and Phaser by repeat-
edly tapping the Siren button, horn ring or other switch connected to the AUX input. Tapping the
horn ring twice quickly stops tones. Holding the horn ring produces Horn. Turn on switch “HRC”.
See OPERATION section for further details.
Short Manual - The Manual function can be set to immediately cut off when the Siren button is
released. This is selected by turning on the switch labeled “SM”.
NOTE: Earlier models with S/N lower than 04190000 have a 5 position DIP switch and only offer
the traditional auxiliary input.
Traditional Auxiliary Input - The auxiliary input is activated with positive (+VDC) AND negative
(-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch is required for proper operation. If a normally
open circuit is not used the auxiliary input will constantly be activated. If this is the case, a diode
must be placed in series with auxiliary input to block the normally off state.
Set switch “AUX_1” on and “AUX_2” off for this type of auxiliary input.
Polarity Selectable Auxiliary Input - The auxiliary input may be activated with positive (+VDC)
OR negative (-VDC). Set switch “AUX_1” off and “AUX_2” on for this type of auxiliary input.
Auxiliary Input Polarity - Switch "AUX_P" set on for positive (+VDC) activation or set off for
negative (-VDC) activation. Also “AUX_1” off and “AUX_2” on.
OPTION SWITCHES
SIDE VIEW
COVER REMOVED
Activation AUX_1 AUX_2 AUX_P
Positive and Negative Activation (Traditional Auxiliary) ON OFF OFF
Positive Only Activation (Factory Default) OFF ON ON
Negative Only Activation OFF ON OFF

SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 5 of 8
CP4825C 06/06/05
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Electrical connections to the unit are made using
the wiring harness supplied. If the unit needs
service the connector can be easily removed
without unwiring the harness.
The power supply of the unit must be capable of
delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for ade-
quate short circuit protection and reliable opera-
tion. The preferred source is directly at the vehi-
cle battery. A fuse on the rear of the unit protects
from overload.
Disconnect vehicle battery before making any
electrical connections.
Extend leads using adequately sized wiring and
terminals or splices.
Wire Size and Termination - The diagram shows
the minimum wire size used for each connection,
along with recommended lead color. If the wire is
longer than 10 ft. use the next larger wire size.
Use only high quality crimp connectors for instal-
lation on the vehicle.
Negative Connection (Black) - Both leads must be used. Connect to the negative battery con-
nector or to chassis ground.
Positive Connection (Red) - Both leads must be used. Connect to the positive battery connector
or to a high current power buss. A power relay may be used.
Speaker Connection (Brown) - Both leads must be used. Connect 1 lead to each terminal or
lead of the speaker. When used with 2 speakers connect each brown lead to both speaker termi-
nals or leads (parallel circuit). Observe polarity (phasing) when connecting 2 speakers.
Radio Input Connection (Blue) - Connect 1 lead to each terminal of the radio speaker or output
connector. The input is isolated and polarity is not important.
Auxiliary Input Connection (White) - The Auxiliary Input allows activation by an external source
of the Siren push button function. See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
Traditional Auxiliary Input Connection - The auxiliary input is acti-
vated with positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn
ring circuit or switch is required for proper operation. If a normally open
circuit is not used the auxiliary input will constantly be activated. If this is
the case, a diode must be placed in series with auxiliary input to block
the normally off state. The adjacent diagram shows a horn ring connec-
tion example. See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recom-
mended.
Polarity Selectable Auxiliary Input Connection - The auxiliary input may be activated with posi-
tive (+VDC) OR negative (-VDC). The adjacent diagram shows three connection examples.
See OPTION SWITCHES sec-
tion for programming details.
NOTE: Permanent disconnec-
tion of the vehicle horn is NOT
recommended.
TRADITIONAL
HORN RING
CONNECTION
HORN
RING
SWITCH
AUX
Added
SPDT
Switch
HORN
WIRING HARNESS CONNECTIONS
(2) #18 AWG BRN
(#16 - 2 SPKR)
2 - SPKR - Connect for
same phase (+ to +)
#18 AWG WHT (See below)
(2) #18 AWG BLU
Connect to output
jack, terminals or
speaker of radio
#14 AWG RED
Use both leads
Extend with #12
#14 AWG BLK
Use both leads
Extend with #12
RADIO
+
BAT
-
AUX
CP2560
CABLE
+VDC Switching examples
HORN
RING
SWITCH
+VDC
AUX
SPLICE
HORN
RING
SWITCH
+VDC
AUX
Added
SPDT
Switch
HORN
HORN
-VDC
switching
example
Must set AUX_P
option switch
MOMENTARY
FOOT
SWITCH
AUX

Page 6 of 8 SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions
06/06/05 CP4825C
OPERATION
GENERAL
This unit is designed for easy operation under the stress associated with high-speed pursuit.
Most siren functions are accessible with one simple motion without repetitive activation of
switches or automatic timed switching that can interfere with desired operation.
SELECTOR SWITCH
The 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operat-
ing function of the siren.
Phaser - A very rapidly changing tone used at intersections or in
highly congested areas. Can be optionally disabled or replaced
with Two-Tone.
Yelp - A rapidly changing tone used in congested areas.
Wail - A slower changing tone used on highways.
Man - Or Manual, the siren tone is controlled manually by the
Siren button or auxiliary input.
Horn - A standby mode that allows Horn Override.
Radio - Also known as Radio Repeat, this function amplifies a
radio speaker input for re-broadcast outside the vehicle. No
siren tones or PA operation are available in this position.
SIREN SWITCH
This momentary push-button switch provides various control functions in
conjunction with the Selector Switch. These functions are manual tone con-
trol in the Manual position, Horn Override in the Phaser, Yelp and Horn posi-
tions, and Yelp Toggle Override in the Wail position. It can optionally control
Horn Ring Cycler 2 operation in the Horn position if HRC2 option is selected.
MICROPHONE (PA Override)
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any
siren tone when the button on the side is pressed.
PA VOL
This control adjusts the PA volume. With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume
to the maximum level with no feedback (squeal).
AUXILIARY INPUT
During installation an auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device.
It provides the same operation as pressing the Siren button.
RADIO VOLUME
The radio repeat volume level is set using an adjustment inside the case
just behind the PA volume control. Press on the rear of the case to open
the unit, then set the Selector Switch to the Radio position and turn on
the power. With the radio volume set to normal level, adjust the siren
radio repeat control to the desired level. Turn off power and press the
unit back into the case.
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (Optional)
During installation, the auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device,
and the HRC option selected. With the Selector Switch set to the Horn position, tap the horn ring
to bring the unit out of standby into Wail tone. Repeatedly tapping the horn ring will cycle through
Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones. Tapping the horn ring twice quickly will stop the siren tones and
return the unit to standby. Pressing and holding the horn ring will produce Horn tone until re-
leased. Then the siren will return to its previous siren tone or standby.
NOTE: Earlier units with S/N lower than 04190000 have a different version of HRC. In this case
the siren tones cycle through Standby, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser. The tone is stopped by cycling to
Standby.
RADIO
HORN
MAN
WAIL
YELP
PHASER
SIREN
PA
VOL
RADIO ADJUST
Sound Hazard - Sound level from siren speaker (>120dBA @ 10 feet) may cause hearing damage.
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)

SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 7 of 8
CP4825C 06/06/05
SERVICE
This unit is designed to provide years of reliable service under even the worst conditions. Many
times there may appear to be a problem with the unit when the true problem is in the speaker(s)
or improper installation. The following chart shows typical symptoms and possible causes.
A blown rear panel fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker
lead is shorted this fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and
replace the fuse. If the siren emits a sound when in the Yelp position it is OK. Check the speaker
(s) or leads for possible shorting.
PROBLEMS
PARTS
The following parts are available from Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.:
Symptom Possible Cause Check
No power or siren
output
Power switch not turned on
Bad speaker(s)
Connector loose
Fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
Does backlighting come on?
Do you hear a "pop" when turned on?
With siren on, yelp selected, listen for tone in amplifier.
Is an external fuse or circuit breaker used?
Are the negative leads connected to a good ground?
No siren tone -
PA works
High Voltage Protection
Mic button stuck
Input voltage must be less than highest rated voltage.
Does mic button release properly?
No PA PA volume not set properly
Selector in Radio position
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?
PA is not available in the Radio position
Distorted siren
sound
Speaker assembly loose
Intermittent Aux Input connection
Low vehicle voltage
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Input voltage must be greater than lowest rated voltage.
Intermittent siren
tone
High Voltage Protection
Connector loose
Bad power connection
Mic button activation
Circuit breaker in supply connection
Is the vehicle voltage regulator working properly?
Is the connector tight on the back of the unit?
Is there a loose connection on a power lead?
Is something lying on the microphone?
Is a circuit breaker used with at least a 50A rating?
Horn function
Or Manual stuck
on
Siren switch stuck
Aux Input improperly connected
Does the Siren switch return fully when released?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Aux Input is activated with positive or negative.
No Radio Unit not connected to radio
Radio volume too low
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?
Wrong siren tone Two-Tone option installed Is the T-T option switch turned on?
Phaser not working Phaser disabled Is the P_I option switch turned on?
Horn not working Horn disabled Is the H_I option switch turned on?
Part Description
CP3966 Bolt, mounting, 1/4-20 x 3/8" (2 required)
CP3571 Bracket, mounting
CP4732 Control, 1K Vertical Trimmer
CP3547 Control, 350 Ohm Mini-Pot (PA volume)
ES00026-03 Cover (not including chassis)
ATO/ATC 20A Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive
CP4852 Knob, Selector Switch
CP4853 Knob, Volume Control
CP4826 Label, Front Panel
ED1680 Lead Asmb, Chassis Plug (internal)
CP2560 Lead Asmb, Standard Siren Cable
CP4750 Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector
CP3633 Microphone Bracket with mounting Screws
SR-15-1 Microphone Strain Relief
8025 DRS/CAP Nut, 1/4-40 Dress w/ Red Switch Cap (for Siren pushbutton)
CP4822 Switch, Momentary Push Button, Right Angle (Siren Pushbutton)
CP3962 Switch, Power Rocker
CP3548 Switch, Rotary 6-Pos. Selector
CP4119 Transistor, output (2 required) (Industry standard TIP36C, Not Texas Instruments)
CP4825 Instruction Manual

Page 8 of 8 SA-400-10 Installation and Operating Instructions
06/06/05 CP4825C
RETURN
If you have any questions concerning this or any other Carson product,
please contact our Technical Service Department at [phone].
Many issues can be handled over the phone. We can also be reached via
e-mail at [e-mail]
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical
Service Department to obtain a Returned Merchandise Authorization num-
ber (RMA#) before you ship the product to Carson. Please write the RMA#
clearly on the package near the mailing label. Be sure to provide a return
address, contact and phone number, along with a brief description of the
problem.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc. warrants this new product to be free from defects
in material and workmanship, under normal use and service, for a period of five (5)
years from the date of delivery to the first user-purchaser.
During this warranty period the obligation of Carson Manufacturing is limited to repairing
or replacing, as Carson Manufacturing may elect, any part or parts of such product
which after examination by Carson Manufacturing is determined to be defective in mate-
rial and/or workmanship.
This warranty does not cover labor charges for removal or re-installation of the product.
Fuses and lamps are not covered under this warranty.
This warranty does not extend to any unit that has been subjected to abuse, misuse,
improper installation or which has not been adequately maintained, nor to units which
have problems related to service or modification at any facility other than the manufac-
turer.
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL CARSON MANU-
FACTURING COMPANY, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR ANY
INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY SUCH DEFECT
IN MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP.