Haier HLC15R - 15" LCD TV User manual

1
HLC15R
TV-8888-128

2
WARNING
This service information is designed for experienced repair technicians only and is not designed for use
by the general public. It does not contain warnings or cautions to advise non-technical individuals of
potential dangers in attempting to service a product. Products powered b electricity should be serviced
or repaired only by experienced professional technicians. Any attempt to service or repair the product
deal with in this service information by anyone else could result in serious injury or death.
CONTENT
1. SPECIFICATIONS………………………………………………………………………….. 4
2. WAINING…………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
3. LOCATION OF CONTROLS AND COMPONENTS…………………………………….. 8
3.1.Board Location……………………………….. ………………………………….…….8
3.2 Main Board ……………….…………………………….. ……………………………..7
3.3 Power Board……………………………….. …………………………………………11
3.4 LCD Panel……………………………….. ……………………………………………12
4. FEATURES AND TECHINICAL DESCRIPTION…………………………………………14
5. INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS…………………………………………………………14
6. External Equipment Connections………………………………….. ……………………..21
7. OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS……………………………………………………………..26
7.1 Front Panel Controls……………………………….. …………………………………..26
7.2 Back Panel Controls……………………………….. ………….………..………………27
7.3 Universal Remote Controller……………………………….. …..………………………28
8. DISASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS……………………………………..…………………….30
8.1 Whole Machine………………………………………………...………………………….30
8.2 Base Subassembly……………………………………………..…….…………………..31
8.3 Back Subassembly…………………………………………..……….…………………..32
8.4 Front frame Subassembly…………………………………………….………………….33
8.5 Assembly Material Subassembly…………………………………………….…………..33
9. MEASUREMENTS AND ADJUSTMENTS…………………………………………………..35
9.1 Version ,S/N, Panel Resoution………………………………………………………. ….35
9.2 Video………………………………………………………………………………………...36
9.3 Audio…………………………………………………………………………………….…..36
9.4 Channel……………………………………………………………………………………...37
9.5Gamma……………………………………………………………………………………….38
9.6 Backlight……………………………………………………………………………………..39
9.7 Function………………………………………………………………………………………39
10. CIRCUIT DIAGRAM……………………………………………………………………………41
11. WIRING CONNECTION DIAGRAM…………………………………………..……………..42
12. TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE…………………………………………………..……………43
12.1. Simple check…………………………………………………………..…………...........43
12.2. Power Supply Board failure………………………..……………………………………43

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12.3. Main board failure check………………………………………………...…….........44
12.4. Pannel failure ……………..………………………………………………………….44
12. MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………….47

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1. Specification
Model HLC15R
Screen size 15.4inch
Aspect ratio 16:10
Resolution 1280*800
Response Time（ms) 16
Angel of view H:90/V:45
Color display 262,144
NO.of preset channels 181
OSD language English/Spanish/French
Color system NTSC
Audio system M
Audio output
power(Built-in)(W) 2×1.5W
Audio output
power(outer)(W) No
Total power input（W） ＜＝50W
Voltage range（V）AC120V
Power frequency（Hz）60Hz
Time of sleep
timer(MINS) 240Min
Net weight(KG) 2.2
Gross weight(KG) 3
Net dimension(MM) 381*147*330
Packaged
dimension(MM) 439*167*475

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2.Warning
WARNING
RISKELECTRIC SHOCK
DONOT OPEN
WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock don’t remove cover or back.
No user-serviceable parts inside refer service to qualified service personnel.
Safety of operators has been taken into consideration at the design and manufacture phase, but
inappropriate operation may cause electric shock or fire. To prevent the productfrom being damaged,
the following rules should be observed for the installation, use and maintenance of th product. Read the
following safety instruction before starting the operation.
The User Manual uses the following symbols to ensure a safe operation and preventany damage to
operators or properties:
THIS SYMBOL INDICATES THAT HIGH VOLTAGE IS PRESENT INSIDE . IT IS
DANGEROUS TO MAKE ANY KING OF CONTACT WITH ANY INSIDE PART OF THIS
PRODUCT.
THIS SYMBOL INDICATES THAT THERE ARE IMPORTANT OPERATING AND
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE LITERATURE ACCOMPANYING THE
APPLIANCE.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read all of the instructions before using this appliance. When using this appliance, always
exercise basic safety precautions, including the following:
1)Save these Instructions ---the safety and operating instructions should be retained for future
reference.
2)All warning on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be followed.
3)Cleaning --- Unplug from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
cleaners. Use only dry cloth for cleaning.
4)Attachments ---do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer as they may cause
hazards.
5)Water and moisture -- do not place this product near water, for example, near a bathtub, wash bowl,
kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool.
6)Accessories ---do not place this unit on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. Use only with
a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommend by the manufacture, or sold with the unit.
7)Ventilation ---Slots and openings in the cabinets and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation.
These openings must not be blocked. In a built in installation such a bookcase or rack do not install
FCC STATEMENT
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 Rule. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, use 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 with
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
encourage 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 receivers
connected.
*Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device compiles with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may be not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC CAUTION:
To assure continued compliance and possible undesirable interference, the provided ferrite cores must
be used when connecting this plasma display to video equipment; and maintain at least 40cm spacing
to other peripheral device.
CANADIAN NOTICE:
This Class B digital apparatus compiles with Canadian ICES-003.

7
product unless proper ventilation is provided.
8)Power Source ---this TV should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the
rating label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your appliance dealer
or local power company.
9)Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. To prevent electric shock, ensure
the grounding pin on the AC cord power plug is securely connected.
10)Power cord protection ---Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to cords or plugs,
convenience receptacle, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
11)Lighting precaution ---for added protection for this product during a lighting storm or when it is left
unattended for long period of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lighting and power line surges.
12)Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous
voltage point or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Avoid spilling liquid of any kind
on the product.
13)Servicing ---do not attempt to service the product by yourself, as opening or removing covers may
expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to authorized service personnel.
14)Unplug this unit from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:
a. When the power supply cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have been fallen into the unit.
c. If the unit has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the unit does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the operating instructions, as improper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore
the unit to its normal operation.
e. If the unit has been dropped or damaged in any way.
f. When the unit exhibits a distinct change in performance; this indicates a need for service.
15) Heat --- The product should be situated away heat source such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other products (Including amplifiers) that product heat.
16) Overloading ---Do not overload wall outlets and extension cord as this can result in a risk of fire
or electric shock.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

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Thank you for using our Haier product. This easy-to-use manual will guide you in getting the best use of
your product. Remember to record the model and serial number. They are on label in back of the unit.
Staple your receipt to your manual. You will need it to obtain warranty service.
3. LOCATION OF CONTROLS AND COMPONENTS
3.1.Board Location
No. Parts number Description
ABoard Main Board
B Board Power Board
C Board DVD
3.2. A Board---- Main Board

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3.2.1 Function Description:
Main Board：
Process signal which incept from exterior equipment，then translate into signal that panel can display.
3.2.2 Connector definition
Main board connector
Power connectors(CN3,CN5)
Notes:
CN3-Pin 3: Backlight on/off:
The system can turn on or turn off the backlight of TFT LCD Panel through the power supply unit path.
CN3-Pin 7: System power on / standby
System board will use this pin to control system power.
CN3-Pin 4: Control the luminance of backlight
The system can generate the PWN signal to control the strength of TFT LCD Panel’s backlight through
this connector.
TFT LCD Panel(LVDS) Connector(CN4)
CN3 CN5
Pin number Signal name Pin number Signal name
1 +12VEXT 1 +12V
2 +12VEXT 2 GND
3 BLON 3 GND
4 ADJ 4 +5V
5 GND 5 STB
6 GND
7 PWR-ON

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Keypad and remote connector(CN2)
Speaker connector (CN1)
Pin number Signal name Description
1-3 Power Power for panel
4-6 GND Ground
7 RXE0- LVDS EVEN 0 - Signal
8 RXE0+ LVDS EVEN 0 + Signal
9 RXE1- LVDS EVEN 1 - Signal
10 RXE1+ LVDS EVEN 1 + Signal
11 RXE2- LVDS EVEN 2 - Signal
12 RXE2+ LVDS EVEN 2 + Signal
13,14 GND Ground
15 RXEC- LVDS EVEN Clock - Signal
16 RXEC+ LVDS EVEN Clock + Signal
17 RXE3- LVDS EVEN 3 - Signal
18 RXE3+ LVDS EVEN 3 + Signal
19 RXO0- LVDS ODD 0 - Signal
20 RXO0+ LVDS ODD 0 + Signal
21 RXO1- LVDS ODD 1 - Signal
22 RXO1+ LVDS ODD 1 + Signal
23 RXO2- LVDS ODD 2 - Signal
24 RXO2+ LVDS ODD 2 + Signal
25,26 GND Ground
27 RXOC- LVDS ODD Clock - Signal
28 RXOC+ LVDS ODD Clock + Signal
29 RXO3- LVDS ODD 3 - Signal
30 RXO3+ LVDS ODD 3+ Signal

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DVD VIDEO Connector: CN6
Pin number Signal name Description
1 GPIO GPIO
2 PB_IN PB1 IN
3 Y_IN Y1_IN
4 GND GND
5 PR_IN PR1 IN
6 GND GND
7 IR DVD IR
DVD AUDIO Connector: P1
Pin number Signal name Description
1 LI YPBPR1L_IN
2 RI YPBPR1R_IN
3 GND GND
Other connectors:
1, CN19 to Upgrade the program of MTK5380(U13) AND FLASH(U17)
U0TX
+3V3SB
U0RX
J3
4x1 W/HOUSING
DIP4/W/H/P2.0
1
2
3
4
3.3.B Board…….(Power Board)

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3.3.1 Function Description:
Supply power for Main board, Panel.
3.3.2Connectordefinition
INPUT CONNECTOR (CN6)
3.4. LCD PANNEL.
3.4.1 Function Description: Display the signal.
3.4.2 Connector definition
CN6 Signal name
1 N
2 GND
3 GND
4 DIM
5 EN
6 +12V
7 +12V

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CN1(Header):S14B-PH-SM4-TB(D)(LF)(JST) or equivalent.
Pin No. Symnbol Description
1
2
3
VBL +3.3V Power input
4
5
6
13
14
25
26
GND
Ground
7-12
15
16
17
18
LVDS
EVEN
LVDS EVEN Signal
19-24 LVDS
Pin number Signal name Description
1-3 Power Power for panel
4-6 GND Ground
7 RXE0- LVDS EVEN 0 - Signal
8 RXE0+ LVDS EVEN 0 + Signal
9 RXE1- LVDS EVEN 1 - Signal
10 RXE1+ LVDS EVEN 1 + Signal
11 RXE2- LVDS EVEN 2 - Signal
12 RXE2+ LVDS EVEN 2 + Signal
13,14 GND Ground
15 RXEC- LVDS EVEN Clock - Signal
16 RXEC+ LVDS EVEN Clock + Signal
17 RXE3- LVDS EVEN 3 - Signal
18 RXE3+ LVDS EVEN 3 + Signal
19 RXO0- LVDS ODD 0 - Signal
20 RXO0+ LVDS ODD 0 + Signal
21 RXO1- LVDS ODD 1 - Signal
22 RXO1+ LVDS ODD 1 + Signal
23 RXO2- LVDS ODD 2 - Signal
24 RXO2+ LVDS ODD 2 + Signal
25,26 GND Ground
27 RXOC- LVDS ODD Clock - Signal
28 RXOC+ LVDS ODD Clock + Signal
29 RXO3- LVDS ODD 3 - Signal
30 RXO3+ LVDS ODD 3+ Signal

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27
28
29
30
ODD
LVDS ODD Signal
4.FEATURES AND TECHINICAL DESCRIPTION
1 Factory model(reference only) L15R1W-C
2 HAC model HLC15R
3 Tuner Integrated NTSC&ATSC
4 Video Signal System NTSC/ATSC(8VSB,Clear QAM)
5 Digital Comb Filter 3D
6 Video Noise Reduction yes
7 Stereo Surround Sound yes
8 MTS Stereo yes
9 Tone Control yes
10 Mute yes
11 Clock No
12 Sleep Timer yes
5. INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DIY DO IT YOURSELF INSTALLATION
If you've decided to take on the challenge of installing your flat-panel television on your own, we've put
together an extensive list of instructions for doing the job right. If this all seems a bit overwhelming, just
give a call to the professionals at Magnolia Home Theater —1-888-MAGNOLIA (1-888-624-6654).
We'll get the job done quickly, efficiently and correctly. Evening and weekend appointments are now
available!
(Note: This information is provided to help guide your installation. Haier assumes no liability for errors
or the outcome of any installation since each project is unique and tools, materials, techniques, local
codes and regulations vary and change.)Preparing for Your Installation In planning your flat-panel
television install, there are some questions you'll need to ask yourself first. Once these are answered,
you're ready to begin your project: Seating area
Is the system designed around a "sweet spot" or for the same sound and picture everywhere? There
are different products for different designs.
Furniture
You will need room for your equipment —most home theater components require a space
13-15 inches wide by 10-13 inches deep to fit properly.
What kind of seating do you want? Is the room primarily a home theater entertainment area, or
will music be part of what it's used for as well?
Aesthetics
Make sure the equipment you choose doesn't overwhelm the room. Do you have room for a

15
projection screen, or will you need to find something a little more space effective?
Wire access
Have you planned how you will run wires to your LCD TV locations? Will you have all of your
equipment next to the TV, or will it be hidden in another room or area?
Do you have enough wire to complete the project? Too much wire is better than not enough.
Mounting
Does your TV require a proprietary mounting device? Some manufacturers require specific
mounts for their TVs.
What is the size and weight of your TV? All brackets have weight and size restrictions. It is
necessary to make sure your TV will fit within the limitations of the mount.
Are you going to fit the mount into a tight space or cabinetry? It may be impossible to use some
brackets if the space does not allow the proper leverage.
Will you need to tilt or move the TV from time to time? There are mounts available that will
adjust to the seating arrangement in the room.
Will the TV be positioned at an angle? Special mounts and techniques may be required to keep
your TV mounted at or into an angle.
What will the TV be mounted to? It is necessary to have proper support for your TV. In most cases,
there will be wood, metal or mortar to mount the bracket to.
TV Breakdown - See our TV Selection »LCD TVs: 32" and smaller This type of TV is clean looking
and lightweight. They are usually easier to mount and require smaller brackets. LCD TVs: 32" and
larger This type of TV is a larger version of their smaller counterparts. They are usually more expensive
in larger sizes than other technologies. Most will work with the same style bracket as plasma TVs.
Plasma TVs: 32" and larger This is the most common type of Flat-Panel TV. These TVs are available
in sizes as small as 32" and go all the way past 100". Most have a variety of mounting options. DLP
Wall-Mountable TVs This is the least common type of Wall-Mountable TV. There are usually special
requirements for this mount.
Needed Tools. Some tools used in the installation profession can cost hundreds of dollars. However,
these tools can save hours of work on a project and allow a skilled installer to learn about a house's
construction without cutting into the wall. They also eliminate much of the risk involved in working near
electrical and plumbing systems. Here is a list of tools needed for TV mounting:
? Stud finder
? Tape measure
? Level
? Pencil
? Power drill
? Socket wrench
? Allen wrench

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? Wall probe —piano wire, etc
? Wire running tools —fish/carpet tape, flex rods, electrical tape
Running Wires You'll need to get a wire from your TV to your equipment. There are a few guidelines
you need to be aware of when it comes to running wires: The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of
rules that govern how wires and varying types of power are run in a building. These rules cover both
high voltage (outlets, light switches) and low voltage (phone lines, speaker wires, cable lines). Any work
you do MUST be in accordance with the NEC, as well as local ordinances for your city, county and state.
It's good to have a clear understanding of these rules before you begin. A/V wire can be susceptible to
interference from external sources, such as electrical lines. The NEC dictates minimum safe clearances
for wires, but it is best to keep as much distance between your speaker wires and any potential sources
of interference —you don't want to get all the way through your install only to discover your speakers
"buzz" or "hum" constantly. The wire you use is as important as the equipment itself. The type of copper
and how thick it is, the jacket protecting the copper, the distance it's run —all of these impact how
your system will perform. Make sure you're choosing wire that is the proper material and has a thick
enough gauge for the location and distance it will be run. There are also different wire ratings that
dictate what kind of wires are run in different areas of a house. For example, certain wires are "in-wall"
rated, while others are rated for what is run outside, underground, in HVAC ducts, etc. Since this is
spelled out by the NEC and in any local restriction codes, it is strongly recommended that you make
use of a professional installer if you're unsure of local ordinances.
Wire Running Techniques Beginner Skill Level —1 or 2 hours, depending on room
Track molding —This concealment option is an adhesive-backed, hollow, plastic trim that
can hold wiring on the inside. When the wires are run inside the trim, the adhesive sticks it into
place against baseboards, in corners, etc. The trim can also be painted, so it blends better with
the background.
Horizontal channeling —This involves cutting out a path in the wall for the wire to flow
though. Some damage, due to the wall notching or stud drilling, is expected with this technique.
After you run wire though the channel, you will need to patch the hole in the wall.
Intermediate Skill Level —2 hours, depending on room
Carpet fish —This technique uses a specially designed flat wire to run between the carpet
and the pad. This should usually be routed through low-traffic areas to avoid wear on the wire.
Start by pulling up a section of carpet, usually near where your wire will be run to or from. Then,
feed carpet tape or another suitably long device from the start to the finish of your run and tape
the wire securely.
TECHTIP: When taping wire, make sure to "taper" the wire in a wedge or cone shape
—
any corners or edges on your tape job can catch and hamper your efforts. This works
best with two people
— one to feed the wire and one to pull from the other end.
Intermediate Skill Level —2 hours, depending on room
Wall fish —This technique uses access from a basement or attic to run wires up or down a wall.
Interior walls are usually empty, but exterior walls will often be blocked with insulation.
TECHTIP: If you have access to a wall where you need a wire fished, drill up from the lower level

17
or down from an upper level into the center of the wall. Once you have an access hole
drilled, run your wire fish tool, such as a flex rod, down to where you need the wire run.
Tape your wire and feed it through the wall to your desired location.
Attaching the Bracket to the TV/Mount to the Wall Intermediate Skill Level —3 to 5 hours with little
or no experience
Securing Your TV to the Wall
1. Using a partner, lift the TV and use the upper hooked side of
the bracket to lock onto the lip of the wall mount. See Photo #32.
Before lowering the TV down, make sure that your wires are
ready for connection. If your TV will not allow connections to be
made when it is flat against the wall, take this time to connect
them while your partner holds the TV in place. 3. Once all the
wires are connected or ready to be connected, gently place the
TV flat against the wall, taking care that no wires get caught or
pinched.4. Take this time to double check that the TV is level.
Once this is verified, secure all locking screws or bars.
If you've made it to this point, congratulations on a job well done!
(Note: This information is provided to help guide your installation. Haier assumes no liability for errors
or the outcome of any installation since each project is unique and tools, materials, techniques, local
codes and regulations vary and change.)Preparing for Your Installation In planning your speaker
installation, there are some questions you'll need to ask yourself first. Once these are answered, you're
ready to begin your project: Seating area
Is the system designed around a "sweet spot" or for the same sound everywhere? There are
different products for different designs.
What kind of seating do you want? Is the room primarily a home theater entertainment area, or will
music be part of what it's used for as well?
Aesthetics
What speaker sizes are you planning to use? Make sure the ones you choose don't overwhelm the
room.
Wire access
Have you planned how you will run wires to your speaker locations?
Speaker Breakdown - See our Speaker Selection »Floor standing/Tower Speakers These are the
largest speakers and the most common in dedicated home theater rooms. They consist of a larger
cabinet for the components and have different sized drivers inside. Some towers even come with
amplifiers built into the cabinet. This construction usually allows for the best sound, but they can be

18
imposing from a price and appearance standpoint. Bookshelf Speakers Quite a bit smaller than their
floor standing cousins, these speakers are designed to provide a happy medium between sound quality
and space efficiency. While bookshelf speakers will lose some of the performance of a larger speaker,
their size makes them a popular choice for many rooms. Satellite SpeakersIn areas where space is at
a premium, satellite speakers are a popular choice. These are small, usually plastic, and are often
included in many cost-effective "home theater in a box" packages. Their small size and cost
effectiveness make them an ideal choice for smaller rooms or a budget system, but their sound quality
often comes up short when compared to higher quality options. Recessed Speakers Some companies
offer a type of speaker that uses the wall or the ceiling as an enclosure. In other words, these
"recessed" speakers put the empty space in those areas to work for you. You will need to consider a
few things for this type of installation:
A suitable mounting depth —Most speakers need 3-6 inches of space behind the wall or
ceiling. If you go this route, make sure there aren't drain lines or wires blocking the way.
A sturdy mounting surface —For this, properly installed drywall will usually provide a stable
area.
Wire access —Some high quality wire can be as thick as your finger. How do you want it run?
Is the wire you will be using code compliant? (See "Running Wires" section for more
information.)
Soundproofing —Things may sound great in one room, but can be irritating to those in the
next room. Proper treatment will cut down unwanted noise, as well as help your sound quality.
A working knowledge of your house's construction —Before you begin installation, know what is
hidden before you cut or drill! This will help avoid any costly uses of the word "oops."
Needed ToolsSome tools used in the installation profession can cost hundreds of dollars. However,
these tools can save hours of work on a project and allow a skilled installer to learn about a house's
construction without cutting into the wall. They also eliminate much of the risk involved in working near
electrical and plumbing systems. Here is a list of tools needed for speaker mounting:
? Stud finder
? Tape measure
? Level
? Drywall Saw
? Pencil
? Power drill
? Flashlight
? Speaker template —usually comes with recessed speakers
? Wall probe —piano wire, etc
? Wire running tools —fish/carpet tape, flex rods, electrical
tape
Running Wires You'll have to get a wire from your speaker to your equipment. There are a few rules
you'll need to be aware of when it comes to running wires: The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set
of rules that govern how wires and varying types of power are to be run in a building. These rules cover
both high voltage (outlets, light switches) and low voltage (phone lines, speaker wires, cable lines). Any
work you do MUST be in accordance with the NEC, as well as local ordnances for your city, county and
state. It's good to have a clear understanding of these rules before you begin. Speaker wire can be
susceptible to interference from external sources, such as electrical lines. The NEC dictates minimum
safe clearances for wires, but it is best to keep as much distance between your speaker wires and any
potential sources of interference —you don't want to get all the way through your install only to

19
discover your speakers "buzz" or "hum" constantly. The wire you use is as important as the speaker
and amplifier themselves. The type of copper and how thick it is, the jacket protecting the copper, the
distance it's run —all of these impact how your system will perform. Make sure you're choosing wire
that is the proper material and has a thick enough gauge for the location and distance it will be
run.There are also different wire ratings that dictate what kind of wires are run within different areas of a
house. For example, certain wires are "in-wall" rated, while others are rated for what can be run outside,
underground, in HVAC ducts, etc. Since this is spelled out by the NEC and in any local restrictions
codes, it is strongly recommended that you make use of a professional installer if you're unsure of local
ordinances.
Wire Running Technique
Carpet fish —This technique uses a specially designed flat wire to run between the carpet
and the pad. This should usually be routed through low-traffic areas to avoid wear on the wire.
Start by pulling up a section of carpet, usually near where your wire will be run to or from. Feed
carpet tape or another suitably long device from the start to the finish of your run, and tape the
wire securely.
TECHTIP: When taping wire, make sure to "taper" the wire in a wedge or cone shape
—
any corners or edges on your tape job can catch and hamper your efforts. This works
best with two people
— one to feed the wire, and one to pull from the other end.
Wall fish —This technique uses access from a basement or attic to run wires up or down a wall.
Interior walls are usually empty, but exterior walls will often be blocked with insulation.
TECHTIP: If you have access to a wall where you need a wire fished, drill up from the
lower level or down from an upper level into the center of the wall. Once you have an
access hole drilled, run your wire fish tool, such as a flex rod, down to where you need the wire
run. Tape your wire and feed it through the wall to your desired location.
Track molding —This concealment option is an adhesive-backed, hollow, plastic trim that can
hold wiring on the inside. When the wires are run inside the trim, the adhesive sticks it into place
against baseboards, in corners, etc. The trim can also be painted, so it blends better with the
background.
Mounting an On-Wall Speaker Beginner Skill Level —30 to 60 minutes1. Most on-wall speakers will
have a very straightforward mounting process. If they can be wall mounted, they will have a small hole
on the back or an insert for attaching a mount. Measure where this hole is on the speaker and pick your
desired height.2. When you have located the height for your speaker, use your stud finder to locate a
stud to hang your speaker from.
TECHTIP: Most stud finders work the same
— simply hold the stud finder still against
the surface and then hold down the button. It will then beep. Now move it slowly straight
up and down, or to the left and right until it indicates it senses something
— usually by blinking
or beeping in a different manner..
Mark the location and attach your screw or mount.3. If a stud can not be located, drywall anchors can
sometimes be used to hang a speaker from the wall —it depends on the weight of the speaker. Check

20
the anchor weight restrictions against the weight of your speakers, ensuring they can hold the speaker
weight.4. Once your mounting location is ready, ensure your wire is ready to be connected. Test your
speaker after connecting the wire by playing something through it. Once you get it to work, hang or
attach the speaker depending on the method being used.
Mounting Recessed Speakers: In-Wall and In-Ceiling Intermediate Skill Level —2 to 3 hours,
depending on house
1. Start by taking the template that came with your speaker. This will
usually be a cardboard cutout that shows you what size and shape your
hole needs to be. Once you remove any obstacles in the way of your
desired speaker location, lightly trace the outline with a pencil. See
Photo #1
2. Once you trace your outline, make a small hole inside the outline, and
use your wall probe to "feel" around for any obstacles.
TECHTIP: You can use a variety of tools such as inspection mirrors, stud finders, or even
a coat hanger to check inside a wall without opening up a huge hole. Check your
intended speaker location thoroughly before you cut a full size hole!
Water and gas lines, air vents, drain lines —many of these will not register with a stud finder, but can
hide an inch or two behind the sheetrock. It's best to find this out with a small hole you can easily fix
rather than a full-sized hole that needs involved repair.
3. After you verify the cavity is free of obstructions, use your drywall saw to begin cutting your hole.
TECHTIP: Cut as you push in
— cutting as you pull out can catch and damage some wall
coverings. You may also wish to score the area by using a utility
knife to trace your line before cutting.
Be sure to save the piece you just cut out —you can use it to patch
the hole if you ever decide to remove the speaker. See Photo #2
4. When your hole has been cut, you may be able to use this newly
found access to help run your wires. Once your wire is in place,
connect it to the speaker. This would be a good time to test your
speaker by playing something through it to make sure your wire and
speaker are in working order before you place it in the wall.
5. Place the speaker into the hole, making sure there are no gaps
between the wall and the speaker. These spaces look bad and they
will decrease your sound quality. Take care to ensure your speaker
is not touching anything inside the wall or ceiling and that the drywall
shows no signs of bending or sagging. See Photo #3