Elan M86A User manual

M86A
Multi-Room Audio Controller
INSTALLATION MANUAL

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 1
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 M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller. This manual is written for the installer of this
equipment.
Please see the software tutorial and Help file for programming information.
These can be found at www.elanhomesystems.com.
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’s M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller.
M86A Introduction Provides an introduction to ELAN’s M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller, along with system features to
include Front and Rear panel controls, indicators and connections, along with a short description of
each.
M86A System Design Overview Provides a system design application overview of the M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller for use in
audio applications.
M86A Connections Provides a description of the M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller system connections and direct
connections from the M86A to other components.
M86A System Expansion Provides information about integrating the C2 Communications Controller and V8 Composite Video
Router.
M86A Operation and Settings Provides location and function description of DIP switches, LEDs and the B1 Test Mode Button.
Troubleshooting Provides troubleshooting tables to help fix common problems that may be encountered when
installing the M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller.
Programming Appendix A provides a list of the IR and VIANet commands and their functions.
Rack Mounting Appendix B provides specifications for rack mounting the M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller.
Specifications Provides equipment specifications for the M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 2
Safety Information
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
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 Wa rni ngs ----- All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be heeded.
Wall Mounti ng ----- 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
appliances 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.
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.
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.
Water----- Do not use the apparatus near water.
Cleaning ----- Unplug the apparatus from the power outlet before cleaning. Use only a dry cloth to clean the apparatus.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 3
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.
Object and Li quid 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.
R eplacement 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 S torms — 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.
NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by ELAN could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 4
Table of Contents
Preface ............................................................................................... 1
Purpose of this Manual.................................................................................................1
Organization .................................................................................................................1
Safety Information .................................................................................. 2
Chapter 1: Introduction ............................................................6
The ELAN Story...................................................................................... 7
M86A Features ...................................................................................... 8
M86A Front Panel Indicators ...................................................................... 9
M86A Rear Panel Connections.................................................................. 10
Chapter 2: M86A System Design Overview................................... 11
Introduction ........................................................................................ 11
Rack Mounting .................................................................................... 11
Pre-Wire............................................................................................ 11
Applications........................................................................................ 13
Zone/Sub-Zone Definitions .........................................................................................13
Stereo Zones ..............................................................................................................14
Stereo Zones w/ Stereo Sub-Zone Using Volume Controls.........................................15
Stereo Zone w/ Multiple Sub-Zones............................................................................16
Chapter 3: M86A Connections .................................................. 18
System Controller Connections ................................................................. 18
VIANet Connection .....................................................................................................18
IR Expansion Port Connection....................................................................................19
All Zones IR Out Connection.......................................................................................19
Source Input Connections ..........................................................................................19
M86A Connections ................................................................................ 20
TS2 Touchpads ..........................................................................................................20
Source IR Output Connections ...................................................................................21
Sense Input Connections............................................................................................22
Zone Preamp Audio Outputs.......................................................................................23
Source Audio Connections .........................................................................................23
Speaker Outputs.........................................................................................................24

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 5
Multi-Chassis Connections ...................................................................... 25
Loop Audio Outputs....................................................................................................25
IR Loop Connections..................................................................................................26
IR Expansion Port Connections ..................................................................................27
VIANet Loop Connections...........................................................................................28
Chapter 4: System Expansion................................................... 29
ELAN C2 Communication Controller Integration.............................................. 29
ELAN V8 Composite Video Router Integration ................................................ 30
Chapter 5: Operation and Settings............................................. 31
Unit ID DIP Switch Settings...................................................................... 31
B1 Button Operation .............................................................................. 31
Front Panel LEDs.................................................................................. 32
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting ..................................................... 33
General ............................................................................................. 33
Audio................................................................................................ 33
Video................................................................................................ 35
Sense Input ........................................................................................ 35
IR/VIANet Control ................................................................................. 36
C2 Communication Control ...................................................................... 37
Appendix A: Programming....................................................................... 38
Appendix B: Rack Mounting ..................................................................... 39
Specifications ..................................................................................... 40
Warranty…………………………………………………………Back Page

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 6
Chapter 1: Introduction
The M86A is NOT a “stand-alone” unit. It REQUIRES integration with an
ELAN HC6 or HC12 System Controller to function.
The M86A Multi-Room Audio Controller combined with the ELAN HC6 or HC12 System
Controller is designed to be an affordable, feature rich solution for whole-house audio
distribution, combining amplification, audio switching, event triggers, and source control
options in a combination found in no other product at this price point. The M86A
Controller is an eight source, six zone controller with twelve channels of amplification. Up
to four M86A Controllers can be linked for a total of twenty-four zones. The M86A
integrates with ELAN TS2 Touchpads, IR receivers and TS7 Touchscreens.
This unit has been designed with flexibility in mind. Multiple control methods combine
with expandability to offer the perfect solution for medium and larger whole-house audio
and automation control systems, and advanced event trigger options allow flexible
automation opportunities.
The M86A Controller includes audio signal sensing and system-status feedback, eight
programmable IR ports, an “ALL Zones IR Out” port, six Sense Inputs, IR Expansion ports,
and Music-On-Hold output and Page/Doorbell audio input jacks for easy integration with
ELAN’s C2 Communications Controller.
Items in Package:
•M86A Controller
•Power Cord
•DB-15 Male-Female Cable
•3.5mm Stereo Male-Male Cable
•4 Position Speaker Connectors (6)
•Quick Install Guide

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 7
The ELAN Story
Located in Lexington, KY, USA, ELAN Home Systems has designed innovative multi-room
audio/video systems since 1989. ELAN systems were the first to integrate music, intercom
and TV distribution features that used the homeowner’s stereos, televisions and telephones
to create the whole-house entertainment experience. These Systems allow people to move
from room to room, controlling centrally located equipment with ease.
ELAN’s product line includes:
•Power Amplifiers
•Multi-Zone Pre-Amps
•Intelligent Keypads
•In-Wall LCD Color Touch Panels
•Wireless LCD Color Touch Panels
•Film Interactive Touchpads
•In-Wall and In-Ceiling Speakers
•Outdoor Speakers
•System Controllers
•A/V Controllers
•Telephone-Based Intercom Controllers
•Video Switchers
•Digital Music & DVD Management Systems
•Satellite Radios
•Accessories for Home Systems Installation
•Volume Controls

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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M86A Features
•8 Source, 6 Zone Controller
System Expansion to 4 M86As for 24 zones
•30 Watts Per Channel Internal Amplifier
Produces 30W/Ch into an 8 ohm load
•Variable or Fixed Preamp Outs
Connect to external amplifiers when you need extra power, for example, in an
outdoor listening area or a large zone with multiple speakers
•TS2 Inputs (6)
Accommodates up to two TS2s per zone
•Buffered Loop Audio Outputs
Used for system expansion and to share sources with Home Theater Systems
•Routable IR Outputs
Makes IR source control connections a breeze
•Front Panel Status LEDS
Provide system status and troubleshooting feedback
•Independent Zone Control for Bass, Treble, Volume
Programmable Turn-On Settings and “On the Fly” Adjustments
•USB Port
Configuration and firmware updates
•Interfaces with the ELAN C2 Communication Controller
Enables Paging, Music on Hold and Door Station Features
•Input Source Leveling
Optimize the input level of each audio source for smooth source
switching. Available for Variable Pre-Amp outputs and speaker
outputs (not Fixed-mode Preamp Outputs).
•Sense Trigger Inputs
Enables Trigger Activated Event Maps and Conditional Programming

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 9
M86A Front Panel Indicators
Figure 1-1: M86A Front Panel Display
Item
Function
1 Zone Status Indicators
Solid blue when the zone is on, Flickers when IR is being received in the zone
2 Front Panel Access Door
(Shown Open)
3 Zone Pre-Amp Output Dip Switches
Sets Zone pre-amp outputs to fixed or variable
4 Chassis ID Dip Switches
Sets unit ID for chassis
5 B1 Button
Activates a test sequence to verify operation
6 USB-Mini-B Connection
Used to download chassis configuration information and for in-field firmware updates
7 Power LED
Solid blue when the M86A has AC power, Slow blink if unit is overheating, Fast blink if unit has shut down due to high
temperature

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 10
M86A Rear Panel Connections
Figure 1-2 M86A Rear Panel Connections
Item Function Item Function
1 AC Power Connector 9 VIANet Connections
Links ELAN VIANet Controlled Devices
2 Source Specific IR Outputs
Routes IR to specific sources
10 Speaker Outputs
30W per channel, Stereo Audio Output
3 IR Expansion Ports
Connects to the IR Link of the System Controller and
additional M86A chassis
11 IR Loop Connections
Allows IR from auxiliary M86A chassis to loop through
the main M86A chassis to the System Controller
4 All Zones IR Out
Connects to the External IR Input of the System
Controller
12 Zone Preamp Outputs
Fixed or Variable Output Level
5 Sense Input Triggers
Used for conditional programming and to activate Event
Maps
13 Page / Doorbell Audio Out
Connect to PG/DB Audio In of auxiliary M86A chassis.
6 Page / Doorbell Audio In
Use with the ELAN C2 Communication Controller 14 Music On Hold Output
Use with the ELAN C2 Communication Controller
7 Source Audio Inputs 15 Source Audio Loop Outputs
Connect to Source Audio Inputs of auxiliary M86A
chassis
8 Zone Control Inputs
Connect TS2 Touchpads
2
3
4
5
1
6
7
8
14
13
12
15
10
11
9

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 11
Chapter 2: M86A System Design Overview
Introduction
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, touchpad, touchscreen, 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 amplifiers, source components,
communications controllers, 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, touchpads,
touchscreens, volume controls, amplifiers, communications gear and the M86A itself. Be
sure to include necessary electrical boxes, structured wiring enclosures, telephone lines,
rough-in brackets, patch cords, power supplies, etc.
Rack Mounting
Use the ELAN RMK3 Rack-Mount Kit when installing the M86A in an equipment rack. The
RMK3 is designed to facilitate mounting ELAN dual rack-space Multi-Room Audio
Controllers into standard 19” equipment racks in order to provide optimum air flow and
heat dispersion for these units. The RMK3 will take up three rack spaces when installed.
Pre-Wire
This section explains the specifics of pre-wiring for an M86A system. Care should be taken
at this stage to ensure a properly operational system.
Most system wiring is “home-run” from the device being installed (a touchpad, for
example) back to the equipment location.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 12
ELAN pre-wiring recommendations for connections to the M86A
Item
Description
ELAN HC6 or HC12 System
Controller
Control: Category 5 network cable
System IR: 3.5mm Stereo Cable
Source IR: DB-15 Male to Female Cable (Included with M86A)
Internal Player Audio: RCA Interconnect Cables
TS7 Touchscreens Control: Category 5 network cable
Power: 2 Conductor (16 AWG)
Video: RG-6 or RG-59 Coaxial Cable
TS2 Touchpads Category 5 cable
IR Receivers Category 5 cable
Volume Controls Control: Category 5 cable
Speaker Wiring: 16-18 AWG 2 or 4 conductor
Use stranded, twisted pair speaker wire between amplifiers and volume controls,
and between volume controls and speakers.
Use Cat-5 to power electronic volume controls and for volume control override
when used with an ELAN C2 Communications Controller.
Speakers 16-18 AWG speaker wire
Use stranded, 2 or 4 conductor speaker wire between amplifiers and speakers.
Remotely Located Sources Audio: Category 5 cable
Video: RG6 or RG59 coax (if necessary)
ELAN C2 Communications
Controller
Category 5 cable
When using an ELAN C2 Communications Controller, run Cat-5 for telephones
and door stations. See the C2 Installation Manual for details.
Sense Inputs Category 5 cable (3 conductors used)
Use Cat-5 to extend sensor leads, if necessary.
System Audio RCA Interconnect Cables

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 13
Applications
This section describes typical applications using the M86A for audio distribution. These
are all basic in nature and should be used for guideline purposes only. Each application
can be augmented as needed for individual circumstances. This section is for overall
design purposes.
Please see Chapter 3: M86A Connections for specific wiring configurations.
Zone/Sub-Zone Definitions
A zone is defined as an area within a system that has independent source selection ability.
A zone may be one room, or several combined areas. A sub-zone is a part of a zone - it
shares source selection - but has independent control of volume. Typically, sub-zones use
volume controls for volume up/down.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
©ELAN 2010 |All rights reserved.
Page 14
Stereo Zones
To create an independent stereo zone, simply connect the M86A’s Speaker Outputs to a
pair of speakers. Make sure to take into account the amplifier’s 8 Ohm minimum
impedance when choosing and configuring speakers. Volume is controlled at preamp
level. Any speakers connected to these channels ramp volume up/down together. Use a
TS2 touchpad, TS7 touchscreen or hand-held remote to control functions (including
volume) in zones with this configuration.
Figure 2-1: Typical stereo zone example.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 15
Stereo Zones w/ Stereo Sub-Zone Using Volume Controls
Connect the Zone Preamp Output to a pair of the external amplifier’s inputs. Set the DIP
switch for the Zone’s Preamp Output to FIXED. Use an impedance matching volume
control (ELAN VSE2) on the external amplifier’s speaker outputs to maintain independent
volume control capabilities in each room. The main zone ramps volume up/down at
preamp level using commands sent from a TS2 Touchpad, TS7 Touchscreen, or hand held
remote, while the sub-zone ramps volume up/down at speaker level using the volume
control. This application uses one pair of amplifier channels from the M86A and one pair
of amplifier channels from the external amplifier. Many areas of the home are ideal for
zone/sub-zone configuration. Examples include Master Bedroom/Master Bath or
Kitchen/Dining Area.
Figure 2-2: Stereo zones and a stereo sub-zone.

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Page 16
Stereo Zone w/ Multiple Sub-Zones
This application is ideal for large areas where independent volume control is needed in
separate locations. Volume is controlled in a variable zone using, TS2 Touchpads, IR
sensors, or TS7 Touchscreens. Sources for the entire zone are selected and controlled
from this same touchpad, IR sensor, or touchscreen.
Connect the speaker outputs of the M86A to a pair of speakers in the main zone. Volume
in this area will ramp up/down at pre-amp level using commands from the zone’s
touchpad, IR sensor, or touchscreen. Connect the Zone Pre-Amp Outputs of the M86A to
the inputs of an external amplifier. Connect the speaker outputs of the external amp to two
impedance matching volume controls, then to two pairs of speakers. Set the DIP switch
for the zone to FIXED. The volume controls will ramp volume up/down only for the
speakers that they are connected to, giving separate volume control in each areas of the
zone. The volume up/down commands from the touchpad, IR sensor, or touchscreen will
have no effect in the sub-zones. For mono sub-zones, use an RCA “Y” cable from the Loop
Output of the amplifier to an additional input of the amplifier.
See Figure 2-3 on the following page for an example using electronic volume controls and
an RCA”Y” cable to set up a Stereo Zone with a Stereo Sub-Zone and a Mono Sub-Zone.
This application provides a stereo zone (connected to the M86As built-in amp), a stereo
sub-zone (connected to a pair of external amplifier channels) and a mono sub-zone
(connected to an additional channel of the external amplifier). If using electronic volume
controls, a hand-held IR remote control can be used for source select and control in the
sub-zone areas. If using rotary volume controls, all source selection and control must be
done from the touchpad, IR sensor, or touchscreen.
NOTE: Amplifiers such as the ELAN D12 and D16 have advanced setup and control
options that can eliminate the need for RCA “Y” cables and volume controls. See the
manuals for those devices for information regarding these features.

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 17
Figure 2-3: Stereo Zone with a Stereo and a Mono Sub-Zone

ELAN M86A INSTALLATION MANUAL
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Page 18
Chapter 3: M86A Connections
System Controller Connections
The M86A must be integrated with an ELAN HC6 or HC12 System Controller to function.
There are only four connections that need to be made between the M86A and the System
Controller. Additional System Controller connections (other than from the M86A) are
described in the respective manuals for the System Controllers.
Connections to the HC6 and the HC12 from the M86A are identical. The images used here
are the HC6. See Figure 3-2 on page 19 for the connections.
VIANet Connection
The VIANet connection allows the System Controller to send commands to the M86A and
to receive system status from the M86A. Trigger information (from M86A Sense Inputs or
from the C2 Communication Controller, for example) is also transmitted over the VIANet
connection from the M86A. Connect the VIANet OUT of the System Controller to the
VIANet IN of the M86A.
This connection uses Cat5 terminated with the ELAN standard color code as shown below.
Figure 3-1: ELAN Standard Color Code

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Page 19
System Controller Connections (Continued)
IR Expansion Port Connection
The IR Expansion Port connection allows the System Controller to send SOURCE IR
commands to the M86A to be routed to the SOURCE IR OUTPUTS of the M86A. This
connection uses a DB-15 Male to Female cable (included with the M86A) from the IN IR
Expansion Port of the M86A to the IR LINK connection of the System Controller.
All Zones IR Out Connection
The All Zone IR Out connections allows IR commands received by the M86A (from a TS2’s
IR receiver, for example) to be routed to the System Controller. These commands can be
used to trigger Event Maps that have been set up in the ELAN configuration software and
programmed into the System Controller. This connection uses a 3.5mm Stereo cable.
Source Input Connections
The HC6 and the HC12 have RCA line-level audio outputs for their Internal Players. These
must be connected to the Source Audio Inputs of the M86A if the Internal Players are going
to be used as sources. This connection uses standard RCA cables.
Figure 3-2: Connections to System Controller