Elan A6 User manual

ELAN HOME SYSTEMS
© ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved. Page I
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Preface
Purpose of This Manual
This manual provides step-by-step installation instructions and connection examples, along with basic user
information for installation and ongoing use of the A6 Six Channel Amplifier. This manual is written for the
installer of this equipment.
Organization
The following information is contained in this manual:
Safety Information Provides a comprehensive list of safety practices and procedures allowing for
the safe installation and operation of ELAN Home Systems’ A6 Six Channel Amplifier.
A6 Introduction Provides an introduction to the A6 Six Channel Amplifier, along with system features
to include Front and Rear panel controls, indicators and connections, along with a
short description of each.
A6 System Design
Overview
Provides a system design application overview of the A6 Six Channel Amplifier for
use in audio applications.
A6 Connections Provides a description of A6 Six Channel Amplifier connections including
connections made with ELAN Multi-Room Systems and direct connections to
the A6 Six Channel Amplifier from other components.
Troubleshooting Provides troubleshooting tables to help fix common discrepancies that may
be associated with the A6 Six Channel Amplifier.
Specifications Appendix A provides equipment specifications for the A6 Six Channel Amplifier.
Rack Mounting Appendix B provides specifications for Rack Mounting of the A6 Six Channel
Amplifier using the included rack mount brackets.

ELAN HOME SYSTEMS
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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN!
WARNING
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instruction in the literature accompanying
the appliance.
CAUTION
CAUTION: RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN
INCORRECT TYPE. DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO
THE INSTRUCTIONS.
Read Information—All the safety and operating information should be read before the appliance is operated.
Follow Information—All operating and use information should be followed.
Retain Information—The safety and operating information should be retained for future reference.
Heed Warnings—All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be heeded.
Wall Mounting—Mounting of this appliance should be done only by an authorized installer.
Ventilation—The appliances should be situated so that their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation. These appli-
ances should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. These appliances should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a
bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.
Non-Use Periods—Appliances that are left unattended and unused for long periods of time should be de-energized.
Power Sources—The appliances should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as
marked on each appliance. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your authorized ELAN dealer or local power
company.
Grounding or Polarization—Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one blade wider than the other blade. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The polarized wide blade
and the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete
outlet.
Water and Moisture—To reduce the risk of electric shock or fire, these appliances should not be used near water ––for example, near a
bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool.
Power Cord Protection—Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and
the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Telephones—Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electrical shock
from lightning. Do not use a telephone to report a gas leak if the leak is in the vicinity of the ELAN electronic equipment because of risk of fire or
explosion.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ELAN HOME SYSTEMS
© ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved. Page III
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Cleaning—Unplug the apparatus from the power outlet before cleaning. Use only a dry cloth to clean the apparatus.
Power Lines—An outdoor antenna should be located away from power lines. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care
should be taken to avoid touching power lines or circuits, as contact with them may be fatal.
Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If an outside antenna or cable system
is connected to these audio products, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded
so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charg-
es. Section 810 of the U.S. National Electrical Code, and Section 54 of the
Canadian Electrical Code, provide information with respect to proper grounding of
the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit,
connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.
See the grounding diagram (right).
Overloading—Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords, as this could
result in fire or electric shock.
Object and Liquid Entry—Never insert objects of any kind through the
openings of these appliances, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or
short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Care should be taken so that
objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the appliance through openings in the enclosure.
Servicing—Do not attempt to service these appliances yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or
other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Damage Requiring Service—These appliances should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
• A power supply connection or a plug has been damaged or
• If liquid has been spilled into the appliance or objects have fallen into the appliance or
• The appliance has been exposed to water or moisture or
• The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance or
• The appliance has been dropped or the enclosure damaged.
Replacement Parts—When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by
the manufacturer or that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other
hazards. The Master Control Unit battery should be replaced only after turning the power off and only by an authorized installer.
Safety Check—Upon completion of any service or repairs to this audio product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to
determine that the audio product is in proper operating condition.
Lightning Storms—Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Attachments and Accessories—Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Cart, Stand, Tripod, Bracket or Table—Use only with a 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.
Disconnect Device—Where the mains plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain
operable.
®
U S
C
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMEN T
GROUND
CLAMPS
POWER SER VICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(CEC SECTION 10-700)
ANTENNA
LEAD-IN WIRE
GROUND CLAMPS
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(CEC SECTION 54-200)
ANTENNA LEAD-IN WIRE
(CEC SECTION 54-200)
NE C - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
(NEC AR TICLE 250, PA RT H)
CE C - CANADIAN ELECTRICAL CODE
Grounding
Diagram

ELAN HOME SYSTEMS
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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL

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© ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved. Page V
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Table of Contents
Purpose of This Manual ....................................................................................................................... I
Organization ........................................................................................................................................... I
Safety Information ............................................................................................................................... II
Chapter 1: Introduction
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 1
A6 Features ........................................................................................................................................... 1
A6 Functions & Indicators .................................................................................................................. 2
Front Panel .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Rear Panel ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Chapter 2: A6 System Design Overview
System Design ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Pre-Wire .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Applications .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Multi-Room Applications ..................................................................................................................... 5
Stereo Zones ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Stereo Zone w/ Mono Sub-Zone ............................................................................................................ 9
S66A/S86A Application ....................................................................................................................... 10
S86A Application ............................................................................................................................... 11
Bridge Application ............................................................................................................................. 12
Chapter 3: A6 Connections
Connections ........................................................................................................................................ 13
Line Inputs ........................................................................................................................................ 13
Line Outputs ...................................................................................................................................... 14
Speaker Connections .................................................................................................................... 15
Triggers .............................................................................................................................................. 16
System Trigger In ............................................................................................................................... 16
System Trigger Out ............................................................................................................................ 16
IR Connections ................................................................................................................................ 17
IR In ................................................................................................................................................... 17
IR Out ............................................................................................................................................... 17
IR System Control ............................................................................................................................. 18
Chapter 4: Operations and Settings ............................................................................................... 19
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................. 21
Appendix A: Specifications ................................................................................................................. 24
Appendix B: Rack Mounting .............................................................................................................. 25
Warranty ................................................................................................................................ Back Page

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Items in package:
• A6PowerAmplifier
• RackMountBrackets
• PowerCord
• InstallationManual

ELAN HOME SYSTEMS
© ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved. Page 1
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Chapter 1: Introduction
The ELAN A6 Power Amplifier is designed to provide a reliable, affordable solution for multi-room audio systems
requiring up to six channels of amplification. Using proven analog technology, the A6 adds advanced features like
Audio Sensing, Stereo/Mono Bus, and Trigger Inputs/Outputs to make it the premier amplifier in its price range.
A6 Features
6 x 60 Watts per Channel @ 8 Ohms
3 x 120 Watts per Channel @ 8 Ohms
• An output pair can be combined using a simple switch to send 120 WPC
of BRIDGED MODE audio to a passive sub-woofer.
• BUS MODE switching allows the bussed signal to be
sent to all channel outputs, excellent for commercial applications.
System Trigger In/Out
• SYSTEM TRIGGER IN allows all channels of the
amplifier to turn on when a signal is received.
• SYSTEM TRIGGER OUT sends a +12VDC pulse
whenever any of the channels of the amplifier are on.
Audio Line Outputs
• Send audio signals out from specific A6 channels
to line level inputs of other devices such as additional A6
amplifiers or audio processors.
Individual Channel Level Adjustments
• Fine-tune each channel’s level using precision potentiometers.
5-Way Speaker Binding Post
• The A6 is equipped with gold plated, 5-way speaker binding post.
This allows for five methods of speaker wire termination: bare wire,
spade lug, pin, single banana and dual banana plug.
IR Port Input
• +12VDC, GND, and IR Input plug allows up to four IR Receivers to pass-through
IR signals through the IR OUTPUT port adding more options and flexibility
to any IR signal routing
Safety Concerns
Use only grounded outlets when powering this product. Making any modification to the power cord could cause
unsafe operation and will void the manufacturer’s warranty.
AC Power Considerations
The A6 requires 3.7 Amps of AC current. When designing any whole house system using multichannel amplifiers,
make sure to provide adequate provisions for all electronic equipment to be installed. This may require additional
outlets and/or circuit breakers tobe installed. Consult a licensed electrician in this case.
ALL CONNECTIONS SHOULD BE MADE
WITH THE AMPLIFIER TURNED OFF
AND UNPLUGGED FROM POWER.
DAMAGE CAN OCCUR TO EQUIPMENT
IF IMPROPER CONNECTIONS ARE MADE!
THIS AMPLIFIER IS BRIDGEABLE!
DO NOT TRY TO BRIDGE OUTPUTS
WHILE AMPLIFIER IS ON!
DAMAGE TO THE AMP CAN OCCUR.

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Page 2 © ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved.
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
A6 Functions and Indicators
FRONT
1 2 4 56
}
}
3
Figure 1-1: A6 Front Panel
Table 1-1:Front Panel
Item Function
1
Channel Gain Potentiometers (6)
2
Pull-Out Access Door
3
Channel ON/OFF LED Indicators - Glows Blue When Channel is ON
4
Channel Clipping LED Indicators - Glows Red When Channel is Clipping
5
Power LED - Glows Blue When Power Switch is ON and Unit Plugged In
6
IR LED - Glows Green When IR is Received

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
A6 Rear
BACK
1234567
8
9
10
}
}
}
Figure 1-2: A6 Rear Panel
Table 1-2: Rear Panel
Item Function
1
Power Switch
2
Power Cord
3
Speaker OUTPUTS
4
IR Receiver Port
5
System Trigger IN/OUT
6
RCA LINE OUTPUTS
7
BUS MODE Button
8
RCA LINE INPUTS
9
BRIDGE MODE Buttons
10
IR IN/OUT

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Page 4 © ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved.
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Chapter 2. System Design & Applications
System Design
The first step to a good design is to map the system. It is advisable to mark up a copy of the house floor plan with
speaker, keypad, touch panel, volume control, and equipment locations etc. Make sure that all locations are decided
upon before pre-wiring commences so that all necessary wiring and installation hardware is in place. This unit will
be interfacing with other components such as multi-room controllers, source components, communications control-
lers, serial controllers, and user interfaces, so it is essential that ALL system components are accounted for prior to
the pre-wire stage.
Secondly, make a detailed list of all components. Include source equipment, keypads, touch panels, volume con-
trols, amplifiers, and communications gear. Be sure to include necessary electrical boxes, structured wiring enclo-
sures, telephone lines, rough-in brackets, patch cords, power supplies, etc.
TM
S66A
A6 Amplifier
C2
A/V Sources
SPP
(side view)
Sensors
External IR
Receivers
SS1
Keypads
AUDIO SENSOR
SPK SPK SPK SPK
Olé
Touchpads
FrontRear
Triggered
Devices
Figure 2-1: System Design
Pre-Wire
Wiring Considerations
• Speaker Wires 28-16 AWG Speaker Wire
• Audio Cables RCA Patch Cables
• Triggers 2 Conductor Wire w/ 3.5mm mono connector

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Applications
The A6 is designed for single or multi-room applications. Every feature was selected to enhance both the single or
multi-room experience and simplify any installation. With Buffered Line Outputs, Bus Mode, and Remote Trigger
options, the A6 can be customized for even the most complex systems.
Three Stereo Listening Areas
By utilizing the Bus Mode button on the A6, multiple rooms in the home can share a single source such as a
Receiver or CD player. As shown below, each speaker pair of will ramp volume up and down independently.
Three Stereo Zones
• Stereo Output to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Bus Mode Button switched to ON
• Volume Controls on Each Speaker Output
Each Area Has Independent Volume Control
A6
RL
Line Level
Analog Audio
Output
Set A6
BUS MODE
Button
To ON
Bus Mode Button
Figure 2-2: Independent Stereo Zones

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Wide Coverage
The A6 is designed to easily handle a Great Room application without any special setup procedures. In the example
below, each speaker pair of will ramp volume up and down simultaneously.
Wide Coverage Stereo Zones
• Stereo Output to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Bus Mode Button switched to ON
•
All Speakers Volume Ramps Up & Down Simultaneously
A6
RL
Wide Coverage Zone
Set A6
BUS MODE
Button
To ON
Bus Mode Button
Line Level
Analog Audio
Output
Figure 2-3: Wide Coverage Stereo Zones

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© ELAN Home Systems 2009 • All rights reserved. Page 7
A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
This amplifier is great for commercial applications such as restaurants and sports bars. In the example below, each
speaker will ramp volume up and down independently.
Wide Coverage Mono Zones
• Stereo Output to RCA ‘Y’ Cable to Line Input 1
• Line Output 1 to Line Input 2
• Bus Mode Button switched to ON
• Mono Volume Controls on Each Speaker Output
All Speakers Volume Ramps Up & Down Independently
A6
RL
Wide Coverage
Mono Zones
Set A6
BUS MODE
Button
To ON
Bus Mode Button
Line Level
Analog Audio
Output
RCA ‘Y’
Patch Cable
Figure 2-4: Wide Coverage Mono Zones

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Two Room Stereo Zone
By using the A6’s Buffered Line Outputs, an additional pair of speakers can be added to a zone. In this example,
both pairs of speakers will ramp volume up and down simultaneously.
Two Room Stereo Zone
• Zone 1 Output to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Line Outputs 1 & 2 to Line Inputs 3 & 4
All Speakers Volume Ramps Up & Down Together
ZONE OUTPUTS
A6
Figure 2-5: Two Room Stereo Zone

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Stereo Zone w/ Mono Sub-Zone
Use the Line Output Jacks and an RCA ‘Y’ cable to create mono sub-zones within a stereo zone. This application
is perfect for large rooms with smaller rooms attached such as a Master Bedroom/Master Bath or Kitchen/Laundry
Room.
Stereo Zone w/ Mono Sub-Zone
• Zone 1 Output to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Line Outputs 1 & 2 to RCA ‘Y’ Cable
• RCA ‘Y’ Cable to Line Input 3
All Speakers Volume Ramps Up & Down Together
RCA ‘Y’
Cable
ZONE OUTPUTS
Figure 2-6: Stereo Zone with Mono Sub-Zone

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
S66A/ S86A Sub-Zones
ELAN’s S66A/S86A Integrated Multi-Room Controllers have built-in amplification for six stereo zones as well as six
sets of preamp outputs for the addition of sub-zones. The A6 is ideally suited to amplify these subzones using rotary
or electronic volume controls if separate volume up/down functionality is desired in the sub-zones as shown in the
S66A example below
S66A Sub-Zones
• Preamp Output 1 & 2 to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Preamp Output 3 & 4 to Line Inputs 3 & 4
• Preamp Output 5 & 6 to Line Inputs 5 & 6
• Preamp Output DIP Switches Set to Fixed
• Volume Controls on Each Speaker Output
Each Zone and Sub-Zone Has Independent Volume Control
Set S66A
ZONE PREAMP
OUTPUT MODE
DIP Switches
To Fixed
S66A
A6
Figure 2-7: S66A/S86A Sub-Zones

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
S128P Sub-Zones
ELAN’s S128P Integrated Multi-Room Controller has variable preamp outputs for eight stereo zones as well as eight
sets of fixed preamp outputs for the addition of sub-zones. The A6 is ideally suited to amplify these subzones using
rotary or electronic volume controls if separate volume up/down functionality is desired in the sub-zones.
S128P Sub-Zones
• Fixed Preamp Output 1 & 2 to Line Inputs 1 & 2
• Fixed Preamp Output 3 & 4 to Line Inputs 3 & 4
• Fixed Preamp Output 5 & 6 to Line Inputs 5 & 6
• Volume Controls on Each Speaker Output
Each Zone and Sub-Zone Has Independent Volume Control
A6
S128P
Figure 2-8: S128P Sub-Zones

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A6 INSTALLATION MANUAL
Bridged
ELAN’s A6 can also be "bridged" providing 3 channels at 120WPC for high power applications. The recessed
Channel Bridging buttons located on the back panel make custom configuration easy
NOTE: Make sure the A6 is OFF before engaging Channel Bridging buttons.
NOTE: DO NOT use Volume Controls when in Bridged Mode.
NOTE: Make sure to maintain a minimum 8 Ohm load.
Bridged Stereo Zone
• Stereo Output to Line Inputs 1 & 3
• Line Outputs 1 & 2 to RCA ‘Y’ Cable to Line Input 5
• Bridge Buttons 1-2, 3-4, 5-6 Engaged
All Speakers Volume Ramps Up & Down Together
A6
RL
Right
Speaker
Line Level
Analog Audio
Output
RCA ‘Y’
Patch Cable
Left
Speaker
Passive
Sub-Woofer
Bridge Mode
Buttons
Figure 2-9: 3 Channel Bridged