Carson SA-430 User manual

SA-430
REMOTE SIREN
AMPLIFIER
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
5451 N. Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Website: www.carsonsirens.com
RADIORADIO
HORNHORN
MANMAN
WWAILAIL
YELPYELP
PHASERPHASER
SIRENSIREN
PAPA
VOLVOL
SASA--430430
CarsonCarson
POWERPOWER
ONON
Carson
MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.

Page 2SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................... 3
NOTICE.................................................................................................................................... 3
GENERAL DESCRIPTION....................................................................................................... 4
INSTALLATION........................................................................................................................ 5
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS..................................................................................................... 5
UNPACKING ........................................................................................................................ 5
MOUNTING –Control Head................................................................................................. 6
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS –Control Head................................................................... 6
MOUNTING –Amplifier........................................................................................................ 8
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS -Amplifier........................................................................... 8
SIREN TESTING...................................................................................................................... 9
OPERATION.......................................................................................................................... 10
GENERAL........................................................................................................................... 10
SELECTOR SWITCH......................................................................................................... 10
SIREN SWITCH ................................................................................................................. 10
MICROPHONE (PA Override)............................................................................................ 10
PA VOL............................................................................................................................... 10
AUXILIARY INPUT ............................................................................................................. 10
RADIO VOLUME ................................................................................................................ 11
OVERRIDE FUNCTIONS................................................................................................... 11
CUTOUT............................................................................................................................. 11
HORN RING CYCLER (Optional)....................................................................................... 11
SERVICE................................................................................................................................ 12
PROBLEMS........................................................................................................................ 12
PARTS................................................................................................................................ 13
RETURN............................................................................................................................. 13
LIMITED WARANTY.............................................................................................................. 14
CONTROL HEAD INSTALLATION TEMPLATE..................................................................... 15

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 3
03/22/02 CP4854B
SPECIFICATIONS
Input Voltage 11 -16 VDC (negative ground)
Input Current 8 AMPS (@14.0 VDC -single 100W speaker)
16 AMPS (@14.0 VDC -dual 100W speakers)
Standby Current Less than 250 mA
Audio Frequency 200Hz -10 kHz +3db
Audio Distortion Less than 3% (@1 kHz -single 100W speaker)
Audio Output 40 watts (@14.0 VDC -single 100W speaker)
Audio Input 400 ohms +10%
Output Power 105 WATTS RMS MAX. (15.0 VDC -single 100W speaker)
180 WATTS RMS MAX. (15.0 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, Radio adjust on amplifier
Auxiliary input for positive or negative connection.
Cutout input connection programmable for positive or negative latching
cutout operation.
8-position DIP switch option selector.
Connections
(10-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Control, Cutout
Size Control Head: 6-1/4" W x 2-7/8" H x 1" D
Amplifier: 8” L x 6-3/4” W x 2-1/8” H
Weight 5 LBS.
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
limited 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.

Page 4SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SA-430 Siren Amplifier is a premium unit designed for single or dual 100W speaker use
from a 12 volt DC power source (negative ground). The control head is only 1 inch deep and
can be installed in minimum clearance areas. Connection between the control head and
amplifier is via a single lead wire with common ground.
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 independent toggle switch controls power. A hole is provided in the
amplifier to adjust Radio volume.
Depending upon the version, the microphone may or may not be directly mounted to the
control head. Units with an “F” suffix have the microphone permanently mounted to the
faceplate. Units with an “FX” suffix are provided with an extension harness and connectors for
remote mounting of the microphone.
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. A latching siren cutout input is
provided for connection to a door switch, etc. to disable the siren when exiting the vehicle.
An 8-position DIP switch on the amplifier allows selection of various options: Two-Tone to
replace Phaser, Phaser disable, Horn disable and Horn Ring Cycler (HRC), which allows
cycling through Wail, Yelp, Phaser and Standby by tapping the horn ring when the function
switch is in the Horn position. The front panel is backlighted with LED's for night visibility.
This durable unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection systems for
maximum service life over a wide temperature range.

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 5
03/22/02 CP4854B
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
damage 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.
Sound Hazards -Sound levels produced by attached speakers can cause permanent hearing
loss. Never operate this unit without adequate hearing protection for you and others in the
area. (OSHA 1910.95)
Mounting -Mount the control head for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount
in air bag deployment area. Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle.
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
operation 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
include control head with attached microphone, amplifier, control head wiring harness,
removable pressure connector, microphone bracket with 2 screws and these instructions.
Contact supplier immediately if any components are missing.
Note: On “FX” units the microphone is detached and a microphone extension cable with
connectors is additionally supplied.
AMPLIFIER ELEMENTS
Fuse
20A MAX
Connector
Radio
Adjust Option Switches

Page 6SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
OPTION SWITCHES
Various options can be controlled by turning on or off any of 8 DIP switches exposed in the
amplifier.
Switch 1 On: Two-Tone -Two-Tone replaces Phaser function.
Switches 1 & 2 On: Phaser Disable -The Phaser function is disabled.
Switch 3 On: Horn Disable -The Horn function is disabled.
Switch 4 On: Horn Ring Cycler option (HRC) -This option allows selection of
Wail, Yelp, Phaser and Standby by repeatedly tapping the Siren
button, horn ring or other switch connected to the AUX input. It also
provides Horn operation by pressing and holding the switch or ring.
Select this option by turning on the switch labeled “HRC”.
Switch 5: Not Used.
Switches 6 & 7 On: Negative Cutout Input –The Cutout input is activated by connection
to negative signal.
Switch 8: Not Used.
MOUNTING –Control Head
Select a mounting location in an area such as the dash or overhead console. Choose a
mounting location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas.
Inspect behind mounting area for clearance. Allow 1-3/4” of depth to accommodate the
control head and cable(s). Consider wire routing and access to connections, as well as
microphone bracket placement.
Use template (back page) for marking hole and cutout locations. Connect control head cable
to back of unit and route leads through cutout. Make all electrical connections (See
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS –Control Head), and then use #6 screws for mounting the
control head (not supplied).
MOUNTING -Microphone Extension Harness (“FX” model only)
Select a mounting location for the
microphone connector, verifying adequate
cable length. Allow 1-3/4" clearance
behind connector to prevent sharp bends
in the harness. Drill or punch a 5/8"
diameter hole for mounting. Remove
mounting nut and washer from connector.
Insert the connector into the hole and
secure it using a 3/4" socket to tighten the
nut. Connect harness to the control head
as shown prior to final installation of head.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS –Control Head
All control head leads can be extended with #22 AWG or larger lead wire.
Black: Negative -Connect to same ground or negative supply as amplifier.
Red: Positive -May be connected to 12 volt D.C. supply. It is recommended that the lead be
connected to the accessory output of the fuse block. This provides additional protection of a
fused input to the control head.
Yellow: Lights -This lead may be connected to the dash lights or to the red power lead.
Connecting to the dash lights will turn on the panel lights whenever the dash lights are on.
Control Head –Rear View
Microphone
Extension
Cable

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 7
03/22/02 CP4854B
When connected to the red lead, make sure that the ignition switch controls the power to that
connection. This prevents the panel lights from being continuously on.
White: Control -Connect white leads from amplifier and control head. The connection may
be extended with any size wire. Route this lead away from the transmitter antenna lead to
prevent R.F. interference being fed to the siren amplifier.
Green: Auxiliary Input -Used for Siren control.
Performs same function as Siren button. Connect
to a normally open switch or to horn ring circuit.
Circuit may connect to either positive or negative.
When connected to horn ring circuit, use a SPDT
switch to connect horn ring to either vehicle horn
or to manual control circuit.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle
horn is NOT recommended.
NOTE: be sure to cut lead short if not used and
insulate with electrical tape.
HORN
RING
SWITCH
SPDT
SWITCH
AUX
HORN

Page 8SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
AMPLIFIER CONNECTIONS
SPKR
à
SPKR
à
POSà POSà RADà RADà
CTRL
à
CUTà
NEGà
NEG
à
+
BAT
-
RADIO
(2) #18 AWG BRN
(#16 –2 SPKR)
2 SPKR –
Connect for
same phase (+ to +)
(2) #22 AWG BLU
Connect to output jack,
terminals or speaker of radio
#16 AWG RED
Use second lead
for 2 SPKR
#16 AWG BLK
Use second lead
for 2 SPKR
#22 AWG ORG
(See Below)
#22 AWG WHT
To Control Head
MOUNTING –Amplifier
Select a location for the amplifier in an area such as the driver compartment firewall, under a
seat, etc. Mounting the amplifier in the engine compartment or in an area directly exposed to
weather is not recommended. Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Allow
clearance for wiring and radio adjustment. Inspect behind mounting area for clearance. Mark
the location of the mounting holes to be drilled.
Drill 4 holes (up to 1/4" diameter) to mount the amplifier to the vehicle. Install the removable
pressure connector and make all electrical connections before final mounting (See
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS –Amplifier). The connector can be secured with the two
locking screws. Then mount the amplifier to the vehicle using appropriate hardware (not
supplied).
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS -
Amplifier
Electrical connections to the
amplifier are made using a
removable pressure connector
located on the amplifier. A label
on the unit identifies the terminal
function. You should install the
connector on the unit before
wiring. If the unit needs service
the connector can be easily
removed without unwiring the
connector.
The power supply of the unit must
be capable of delivering peak
currents up to 50 amps for
adequate short circuit protection
and reliable operation. The
preferred source is directly at the
vehicle battery. The unit is
internally fused.
Attach leads by stripping 3/8", inserting into connector and clamp by tightening screw. Make
sure the screw is tight and the wire can't be pulled out. Failure to adequately tighten the
screw can result in improper operation or burning the connector and wire.
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 installation on the vehicle.

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 9
03/22/02 CP4854B
Cutout Input Connection -The Cutout Input turns
off any siren tone output when activated, and
remains off until a control is activated or changed.
The adjacent diagram shows two connection
examples. See the INSTALLER-SELECTABLE
OPTIONS section for programming details.
SIREN TESTING
Before re-connecting the battery in the vehicle make sure that the siren is turned off. Observe
polarity when re-connecting.
Caution: Hearing protection should always be used when testing any siren, especially
indoors. The sound levels produced by the speakers may cause hearing loss.
The following procedure should be used to test the siren:
1. With the function selector set to the Horn position turn on the power switch. Nothing
should be heard from the speakers.
2. Press the Siren button. The speakers should emit a simulated Air-Horn sound while the
button is pressed. (If the auxiliary lead is used check the appropriate switch and/or horn-
ring operation. The result should be the same.)
3. Test the microphone operation by pressing the microphone button and speaking. The
noise-canceling microphone should be held close to the lips for proper operation. Use
the volume control to adjust the sound level.
4. If the Radio input leads are connected test this function by setting the function switch to
this setting. Adjusting a control through a hole in the amplifier sets the sound level.
Ground
switching
example
ADDED
DOOR
SWITCH
CUT
+12 Switching
example
DOOR
SWITCH
+12
CUT
SPLICE
DOME
LIGHT

Page 10 SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
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
operating 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 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 control in the Manual position, Horn Override in the Phaser, Yelp
and Horn positions, and Yelp Override in the Wail position. It can
optionally control Horn Ring Cycler operation in the Horn position if the
HRC option is selected.
MICROPHONE (PA Override)
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides
any function 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.
SELECTOR SWITCH
RADIORADIO
HORNHORN
MANMAN
WAILWAIL
YELPYELP
PHASERPHASER
SIRENSIREN
PAPA
VOLVOL

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 11
03/22/02 CP4854B
RADIO VOLUME
The radio repeat volume level is set using an adjustment on the side of the amplifier. 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.
OVERRIDE FUNCTIONS
In addition to PA Override, two other override functions are available and controlled by the
Siren button or auxiliary input.
Horn Override -With the Selector Switch in the Phaser, Yelp or Horn positions the Siren
button or auxiliary input activates a simulated air-horn tone. This can optionally be disabled.
Yelp Override -With the Selector Switch in the Wail position, pressing the Siren button or
activating the auxiliary input toggles between the Wail and Yelp function.
CUTOUT
During installation, a cutout input may be connected to a door switch. It turns off any siren
tone when the door is opened. The siren tone will continue to be cut off even when the door
is closed. Changing any switch or input will restore normal function.
HORN RING CYCLER (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, the
horn ring or Siren button can be tapped repeatedly to select the Wail, Yelp, Phaser and
Standby tones or modes in succession. Pressing and holding the horn ring or Siren button
operates the Horn tone without changing the basic tone selection.

Page 12 SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
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
Symptom Possible Cause Check
No power Power switch not turned on
Connector loose
Internal fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
Does backlighting come on?
Do you hear a "pop" when turned on?
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 The input voltage must be less than 16 volts. Does mic button release properly?
No PA PA volume not set properly Have you tried turning the PA volume control?
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?
The input voltage must be greater than 9 volts.
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?
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 Ground system noise Is the T-T option switch turned on? Are Control head and amplifier connected to good
ground?
Phaser not
working Phaser disabled Is the Phaser Disable option switch turned on?
Horn not
working Horn disabled Is the Horn Disable option switch turned on?

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 13
03/22/02 CP4854B
PARTS
The following parts are available from Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.:
Part Description
CP3633 Bracket, Microphone with Screws
CP4732 Control, 1K Vertical Trimmer
CP4834 Control, 1K Ohm Vertical Mini-Pot
CP4833-10 Connector, 10-pin Removable Pressure W/Locking Screws
ATO/ATC 20A Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive
PS70BL-DKnob, Selector Switch Knob
G-100-2L Knob, Volume Control
CP4840 Label, SA-430 Front Panel
CP3040 Lead Asmb, Control Head Cable
CP4854 Manual, SA-430-10F Instruction
CP4750 Microphone, Noise Canceling W/Connector
8025 DRS/CAP Nut, 1/4-40 Dress W/Cap, Red
SR-15-1Strain Relief, Microphone
8121D2V40 Switch, Momentary Push Button, Vertical
7101-T-C-QSwitch, Power Toggle
CP3599 Switch, Rotary 6-Pos. Selector, Vertical
CP4119 Transistor, TIP36C Power
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 [email protected]
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical Service
Department to obtain a Returned Merchandise Authorization number (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.

Page 14 SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions
CP4854B 03/22/02
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 material
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
manufacturer.
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARR
ANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL CARSON MANUFACTURING
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.

SA-430 Installation and Operating Instructions Page 15
03/22/02 CP4854B
CONTROL HEAD INSTALLATION TEMPLATE
5-1/4”
2-5/8”
5-7/8”
6-1/4”
1/2”
1/8”
2-7/8”
2-1/2”
This inner area
to be removed.
CAUTION: Please note that top and bottom
edges only provide 1/8” overlap. Cut carefully.