Honeywell NOTIFIER AA Series User manual

AA-series Analog Audio Amplifiers
AA-30, AA-100, and AA-120
Installation Manual for DVC-AO Applications
Document 52526 Rev: B
8/13/2019 ECN: 18-305

2AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Fire Alarm & Emergency Communication System Limitations
While a life safety system may lower insurance rates, it is not a substitute for life and property insurance!
An automatic fire alarm system—typically made up of smoke
detectors, heat detectors, manual pull stations, audible warning
devices, and a fire alarm control panel (FACP) with remote notifica-
tion capability—can provide early warning of a developing fire. Such
a system, however, does not assure protection against property
damage or loss of life resulting from a fire.
An emergency communication system—typically made up of an
automatic fire alarm system (as described above) and a life safety
communication system that may include an autonomous control
unit (ACU), local operating console (LOC), voice communication,
and other various interoperable communication methods—can
broadcast a mass notification message. Such a system, however,
does not assure protection against property damage or loss of life
resulting from a fire or life safety event.
The Manufacturer recommends that smoke and/or heat detectors
be located throughout a protected premises following the
recommendations of the current edition of the National Fire
ProtectionAssociation Standard 72 (NFPA 72), manufacturer's
recommendations, State and local codes, and the
recommendations contained in the Guide for Proper Use of System
Smoke Detectors, which is made available at no charge to all
installing dealers. This document can be found at http://
www.systemsensor.com/appguides/. A study by the Federal
Emergency ManagementAgency (an agency of the United States
government) indicated that smoke detectors may not go off in as
many as 35% of all fires. While fire alarm systems are designed to
provide early warning against fire, they do not guarantee warning or
protection against fire.Afire alarm system may not provide timely or
adequate warning, or simply may not function, for a variety of
reasons:
Smoke detectors may not sense fire where smoke cannot reach
the detectors such as in chimneys, in or behind walls, on roofs, or
on the other side of closed doors. Smoke detectors also may not
sense a fire on another level or floor of a building.A second-floor
detector, for example, may not sense a first-floor or basement fire.
Particles of combustion or “smoke” from a developing fire may
not reach the sensing chambers of smoke detectors because:
• Barriers such as closed or partially closed doors, walls, chim-
neys, even wet or humid areas may inhibit particle or smoke
flow.
• Smoke particles may become “cold,” stratify, and not reach the
ceiling or upper walls where detectors are located.
• Smoke particles may be blown away from detectors by air out-
lets, such as air conditioning vents.
• Smoke particles may be drawn into air returns before reaching
the detector.
The amount of “smoke” present may be insufficient to alarm smoke
detectors. Smoke detectors are designed to alarm at various levels
of smoke density. If such density levels are not created by a devel-
oping fire at the location of detectors, the detectors will not go into
alarm.
Smoke detectors, even when working properly, have sensing limita-
tions. Detectors that have photoelectronic sensing chambers tend
to detect smoldering fires better than flaming fires, which have little
visible smoke. Detectors that have ionizing-type sensing chambers
tend to detect fast-flaming fires better than smoldering fires.
Because fires develop in different ways and are often unpredictable
in their growth, neither type of detector is necessarily best and a
given type of detector may not provide adequate warning of a fire.
Smoke detectors cannot be expected to provide adequate warning
of fires caused by arson, children playing with matches (especially
in bedrooms), smoking in bed, and violent explosions (caused by
escaping gas, improper storage of flammable materials, etc.).
Heat detectors do not sense particles of combustion and alarm
only when heat on their sensors increases at a predetermined rate
or reaches a predetermined level. Rate-of-rise heat detectors may
be subject to reduced sensitivity over time. For this reason, the rate-
of-rise feature of each detector should be tested at least once per
year by a qualified fire protection specialist. Heat detectors are
designed to protect property, not life.
IMPORTANT! Smoke detectors must be installed in the same
room as the control panel and in rooms used by the system for the
connection of alarm transmission wiring, communications, signal-
ing, and/or power. If detectors are not so located, a developing fire
may damage the alarm system, compromising its ability to report a
fire.
Audible warning devices such as bells, horns, strobes, speak-
ers and displays may not alert people if these devices are located
on the other side of closed or partly open doors or are located on
another floor of a building. Any warning device may fail to alert peo-
ple with a disability or those who have recently consumed drugs,
alcohol, or medication. Please note that:
• An emergency communication system may take priority over a
fire alarm system in the event of a life safety emergency.
• Voice messaging systems must be designed to meet intelligibility
requirements as defined by NFPA, local codes, and Authorities
Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
• Language and instructional requirements must be clearly dis-
seminated on any local displays.
• Strobes can, under certain circumstances, cause seizures in
people with conditions such as epilepsy.
• Studies have shown that certain people, even when they hear a
fire alarm signal, do not respond to or comprehend the meaning
of the signal.Audible devices, such as horns and bells, can have
different tonal patterns and frequencies. It is the property
owner's responsibility to conduct fire drills and other training
exercises to make people aware of fire alarm signals and
instruct them on the proper reaction to alarm signals.
• In rare instances, the sounding of a warning device can cause
temporary or permanent hearing loss.
A life safety system will not operate without any electrical power. If
AC power fails, the system will operate from standby batteries only
for a specified time and only if the batteries have been properly
maintained and replaced regularly.
Equipment used in the system may not be technically compatible
with the control panel. It is essential to use only equipment listed for
service with your control panel.
Telephone lines needed to transmit alarm signals from a premises
to a central monitoring station may be out of service or temporarily
disabled. For added protection against telephone line failure,
backup radio transmission systems are recommended.
The most common cause of life safety system malfunction is inad-
equate maintenance. To keep the entire life safety system in excel-
lent working order, ongoing maintenance is required per the
manufacturer's recommendations, and UL and NFPA standards. At
a minimum, the requirements of NFPA 72 shall be followed. Envi-
ronments with large amounts of dust, dirt, or high air velocity require
more frequent maintenance.A maintenance agreement should be
arranged through the local manufacturer's representative. Mainte-
nance should be scheduled as required by National and/or local fire
codes and should be performed by authorized professional life
safety system installers only. Adequate written records of all inspec-
tions should be kept. Limit-D2-2016

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 3
Installation Precautions
Adherence to the following will aid in problem-free installation with long-term reliability:
WARNING - Several different sources of power can be con-
nected to the fire alarm control panel. Disconnect all sources of
power before servicing. Controlunit and associated equipment may
be damaged by removing and/or inserting cards, modules, or inter-
connecting cables while the unit is energized. Do not attempt to
install, service, or operate this unit until manuals are read and
understood.
CAUTION - System Re-acceptance Test after Software
Changes: To ensure proper system operation, this product must be
tested in accordance with NFPA 72 after any programming opera-
tion or change in site-specific software. Re-acceptance testing is
required after any change, addition or deletion of system compo-
nents, or after any modification, repair or adjustment to system
hardware or wiring.All components, circuits, system operations, or
software functions known to be affected by a change must be 100%
tested. In addition, to ensure that other operations are not inadver-
tently affected, at least 10% of initiating devices that are not directly
affected by the change, up to a maximum of 50 devices, must also
be tested and proper system operation verified.
This system meets NFPA requirements for operation at 0-49º C/
32-120º F and at a relative humidity 93% ± 2% RH (non-condens-
ing) at 32°C ± 2°C (90°F ± 3°F). However, the useful life of the sys-
tem's standby batteries and the electronic components may be
adversely affected by extreme temperature ranges and humidity.
Therefore, it is recommended that this system and its peripherals
be installed in an environment with a normal room temperature of
15-27º C/60-80º F.
Verify that wire sizes are adequate for all initiating and indicating
device loops. Most devices cannot tolerate more than a 10% I.R.
drop from the specified device voltage.
Like all solid state electronic devices, this system may operate
erratically or can be damaged when subjected to lightning induced
transients.Although no system is completelyimmune from lightning
transients and interference, proper grounding will reduce suscepti-
bility. Overhead or outside aerial wiring is not recommended, due to
an increased susceptibility to nearby lightning strikes. Consult with
the Technical Services Department if any problems are anticipated
or encountered.
Disconnect AC power and batteries prior to removing or inserting
circuit boards. Failure to do so can damage circuits.
Remove all electronic assemblies prior to any drilling, filing,
reaming, or punching of the enclosure. When possible, make all
cable entries from the sides or rear. Before making modifications,
verify that they will not interfere with battery, transformer, or printed
circuit board location.
Do not tighten screw terminals more than 9 in-lbs. Over-tighten-
ing may damage threads, resulting in reduced terminal contact
pressure and difficulty with screw terminal removal.
This system contains static-sensitive components. Always
ground yourself with a proper wrist strap before handling any cir-
cuits so that static charges are removed from the body. Use static
suppressive packaging to protect electronic assemblies removed
from the unit.
Units with a touchscreen display should be cleaned with a dry,
clean, lint free/microfiber cloth. If additional cleaning is required,
apply a small amount of Isopropyl alcohol to the cloth and wipe
clean. Do not use detergents, solvents, or water for cleaning. Do
not spray liquid directly onto the display.
Follow the instructions in the installation, operating, and pro-
gramming manuals. These instructions must be followed to avoid
damage to the control panel and associated equipment. FACP
operation and reliability depend upon proper installation.
Precau-D2-11-2017
FCC Warning
WARNING: This equipment generates, uses, and can radi-
ate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual may cause interfer-
ence to radio communications. It has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for classA computing devices pur-
suant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which is
designed to provide reasonable protection against such
interference when devices are operated in a commercial
environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential
area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user
will be required to correct the interference at his or her own
expense.
Canadian Requirements
This digital apparatus does not exceed the ClassA limits for
radiation noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in
the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Depart-
ment of Communications.
Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas de bruits radio-
electriques depassant les limites applicables aux appareils
numeriques de la classeA prescrites dans le Reglement sur
le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des
Communications du Canada.
HARSH™, NIS™, NOTI•FIRE•NET™, and eVance™ are all trademarks; and Acclimate® Plus™, FlashScan®, FAAST Fire Alarm Aspiration Sensing Technology®,
Honeywell®, Intelligent FAAST®, NOTIFIER®, ONYX®, ONYXWorks®, SWIFT®, VeriFire®, and VIEW® are all registered trademarks of Honeywell International Inc.
Microsoft® and Windows® are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation. Chrome™ and Google™ are trademarks of Google Inc.
©Tuesday, August 13, 2019 by Honeywell International Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use of this document is strictly prohibited.

4AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Software Downloads
In order to supply the latest features and functionality in fire alarm and life safety technology to our customers, we make frequent
upgrades to the embedded software in our products. To ensure that you are installing and programming the latest features, we
strongly recommend that you download the most current version of software for each product prior to commissioning any system.
Contact Technical Support with any questions about software and the appropriate version for a specific application.
Documentation Feedback
Your feedback helps us keep our documentation up-to-date and accurate. If you have any comments or suggestions about our online
Help or printed manuals, you can email us.
Please include the following information:
• Product name and version number (if applicable)
• Printed manual or online Help
• Topic Title (for online Help)
• Page number (for printed manual)
• Brief description of content you think should be improved or corrected
• Your suggestion for how to correct/improve documentation
Send email messages to:
[e-mail]
Please note this email address is for documentation feedback only. If you have any technical issues, please contact Technical
Services.

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 5
Table of Contents
Section 1: About This Manual .......................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1: Standards and Other Documents .......................................................................................................................................................................6
1.2: UL 864 9th and 10th Edition .............................................................................................................................................................................6
1.2.1: Products Subject to AHJ Approval.........................................................................................................................................................7
1.2.2: Applications Without DVC ....................................................................................................................................................................7
1.3: Supplemental Documentation............................................................................................................................................................................7
1.4: Cautions and Warnings ......................................................................................................................................................................................7
Section 2: Product Overview............................................................................................................................................ 8
2.1: Audio Amplifier Features ..................................................................................................................................................................................8
2.2: System Overview...............................................................................................................................................................................................8
2.3: Power-Supply and Battery Requirements..........................................................................................................................................................9
Section 3: Amplifying Audio Messages ........................................................................................................................ 10
3.1: Topics Covered ................................................................................................................................................................................................10
3.2: DVC-AO Connections.....................................................................................................................................................................................10
3.3: AA-30 Installation ...........................................................................................................................................................................................11
3.3.1: Mounting an AA-30..............................................................................................................................................................................11
3.3.2: Connecting an AA-30...........................................................................................................................................................................11
3.4: AA-30 Operation .............................................................................................................................................................................................12
3.4.1: Circuit Board Layout............................................................................................................................................................................13
3.4.2: LED Conditions....................................................................................................................................................................................13
3.5: AA-100/AA-120 Installation ...........................................................................................................................................................................13
3.5.1: Installing an AA-100 or AA-120..........................................................................................................................................................13
3.5.2: Mounting an AA-100 or AA-120.........................................................................................................................................................13
3.5.3: Connecting an AA-100 or AA-120.......................................................................................................................................................14
3.6: AA-100/AA-120 General Operation................................................................................................................................................................15
3.6.1: AA-100/AA-120 Circuit Board Layout................................................................................................................................................16
3.6.2: AA-100/AA-120 LED Conditions........................................................................................................................................................16
3.6.3: Selecting the Backup Tone on AA-100/AA-120..................................................................................................................................16
3.7: Adjusting the Audio Gain Level ......................................................................................................................................................................16
3.8: Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers...................................................................................................................................................................17
3.8.1: Two Primary AA-30s Without Backup ...............................................................................................................................................17
3.8.2: Two Primary AA-100/AA-120s Without Backup................................................................................................................................18
3.8.3: Two Primary Amplifiers With Backup.................................................................................................................................................19
Index................................................................................................................................................................................. 22

6AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Section 1: About This Manual
1.1 Standards and Other Documents
This Fire Alarm Control Panel complies with the following NFPA standards:
• NFPA 12 CO2 Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 12A Halon 1301 Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 13 Sprinkler Systems
• NFPA 15 Water Spray Systems
• NFPA 16 Foam/Water Deluge and Foam/Water Spray Systems
• NFPA 17 Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 17A Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 72 Central Station Fire Alarm Systems (Automatic, Manual and Waterflow) Protected Premises Unit (requires UDACT).
• NFPA 72 Local (Automatic, Manual, Waterflow and Sprinkler Supervisory) Fire Alarm Systems.
• NFPA 72 Auxiliary (Automatic, Manual and Waterflow) Fire Alarm Systems (requires TM-4).
• NFPA 72 Remote Station (Automatic, Manual and Waterflow) Fire Alarm Systems
• NFPA 72 Proprietary (Automatic, Manual and Waterflow) Fire Alarm Systems (Protected Premises Unit).
• NFPA 2001 Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
The installer should be familiar with the following documents and standards:
• NFPA 72 Initiating Devices for Fire Alarm Systems
• NFPA 72 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance for Fire Alarm Systems
• NFPA 72 Notification Appliances for Fire Alarm Systems
Underwriters Laboratories
• UL 38 Manually Actuated Signaling Boxes
• UL 217 Smoke Detectors, Single and Multiple Station
• UL 228 Door Closers - Holders for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 268 Smoke Detectors for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 268A Smoke Detectors for Duct Applications
• UL 346 Waterflow Indicators for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 464 Audible Signaling Appliances
• UL 521 Heat Detectors for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 864 Standard for Control Units for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 1481 Power Supplies for Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• UL 1971 Visual Signaling Appliances
• UL 1076 Proprietary BurglarAlarm Systems
•Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC)
• ULC-S527-99 Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems
• ULC S524 Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems
Other
• EIA-485 and EIA-232 Serial Interface Standards
• NEC Article 300 Wiring Methods
• NEC Article 760 Fire Protective Signaling Systems
• Applicable Local and State Building Codes
• Requirements of the Local Authority Having Jurisdiction
• Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1
1.2 UL 864 9th and 10th Edition
• Per the UL Continuing Certification Program, UL 864 9th edition fire alarm control equipment will retain certification after the
rollout of UL 10th edition (12/2/2018).
• Installations of UL 864 10th Edition certified equipment are permitted to use UL864 9th Edition certified equipment when
approved by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
For product compliance, refer to the UL/ULC listing cards located on the UL online certification directory.
http://iq.ulprospector.com

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 7
Supplemental Documentation About This Manual
1.2.1 Products Subject to AHJ Approval
These products have been certified to comply with the requirements in the Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm
Systems, UL 864 9th Edition. Operation of these products with products not tested for UL 864 9th Edition has not been evaluated. Such
operation requires the approval of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
Products mentioned in this manual that have not received UL 864 9th Edition certification:
• VCM-4RK
• DCM-4RK
• FFT-7/7S
•AMG-1/E
1.2.2 Applications Without DVC
This manual does not document applications using VCM-4RK, DCM-4RK, FFT-7, or AMG-1/E. To service systems containing those
products, refer to the UL 8th Edition installation documentation supplied with your fire alarm control panel, or its voice alarm system.
Use of the AA-30, AA-100, and AA-120 in UL 8th Edition installations requires the approval of the localAuthority Having Jurisdiction
(AHJ).
1.3 Supplemental Documentation
The table below provides a list of documents for the other components of a Digital Voice Command system.
1.4 Cautions and Warnings
This manual contains cautions and warnings to alert the reader as follows:
Document Document Number
DVC Digital Voice Command Manual 52411
DAA Digital Audio Amplifier Manual 52410
ACT-1 Installation Document 52527
ACT-2 Installation Document 51118
Table 1.1 Related Documentation
NOTE: Where used in this manual, the term CPU refers to the main circuit board for the fire alarm control panel’s central processing unit.
!
CAUTION: SUMMARY IN BOLD
INFORMATION ABOUT PROCEDURES THAT COULD CAUSE PROGRAMMING ERRORS, RUNTIME ERRORS, OR
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
!
WARNING: SUMMARY IN BOLD
INDICATES INFORMATION ABOUT PROCEDURES THAT COULD CAUSE IRREVERSIBLE DAMAGE TO THE
CONTROL PANEL, IRREVERSIBLE LOSS OF PROGRAMMING DATA OR PERSONAL INJURY.

8AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Section 2: Product Overview
2.1 Audio Amplifier Features
There are three audio amplifier models; each provides a different power level:
• AA-30 - Up to 30 watts of power for driving 25 Vrms speaker circuits.
• AA-100 - Up to 100 watts of power for driving 70.7 Vrms speaker circuits.
• AA-120 - Up to 120 watts of power for driving 25 Vrms speaker circuits.
Audio amplifiers provide the following features:
• Built-in Supervision Each audio amplifier contains LEDs showing the type of trouble. Types of trouble include: brownout, loss of
low-level supervision tone at the input, battery failure, audio output wiring failure (if set for four-wire output), and amplifier failure.
During total loss of primary AC power, all LEDs extinguish to conserve battery power.
• Backup You can set up an audio amplifier as a backup amplifier for multiple amplifiers. If an amplifier fails, the signal
automatically switches to the backup amplifier. When one backup amplifier is serving multiple primary amplifiers, only one
primary amplifier failure will be supported.
• Speaker zone selection Set by Control-By-Event (CBE) or set manually using control switches on ACM-24AT modules or DVC-
KD.
• Backup Tone The AA-100 and AA-120 will generate automatic backup tones if the low-level input is lost.
2.2 System Overview
Figure 2.1, “Product Overview” provides a functional overview of how analog audio amplifiers can fit into a Digital Voice Command
system.
Amplifying the Low-Level Analog Audio Signal Received from DVC-AO
AA-series analog audio amplifiers receive low-level audio messages from the Digital Voice Command Analog Output module (DVC-
AO) and send amplified output to the control modules (such as FCM-1 or XP6-C) that control the speaker zones.Any listed transponder
or control module can be used with control-by-event equations.
Driving Speaker Circuits
The amplified signal from each Audio Amplifier must be connected to a control module that will switch the signal to a speaker circuit.
The FCM-1 or XP6-C control module connects to any control panel with an SLC loop and gets its instructions via CBE programming.
The module is fed an amplified audio signal from an audio amplifier. When a circuit is activated, this audio power is switched to a
speaker zone just as notification appliance power would be connected to a Notification Appliance Circuit (NAC).
When control modules are used to activate speaker circuits on an Audio Amplifier output, the control modules must be located within
20 ft of the amplifier output with cable in conduit. If installation of the control modules is required more than 20 ft away, the output
must only serve one notification zone.
Speaker Circuit Power Limitations
The total power available from any group of speaker circuits cannot exceed the limitations of the audio amplifiers feeding that group.
The maximum load connected to any one speaker circuit cannot exceed 30 watts. See the ACT-2 Installation Document for instructions
on using this step-down transformer to take the high level output of one audio amplifier to the low-level input of another audio amp.
NOTE: Whenever AA-30, AA-100 and AA-120 are mentioned, it also refers to the AA-30E, AA-100E and AA-120E (240 VAC versions).

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 9
Power-Supply and Battery Requirements Product Overview
Retrofit Applications
When redesigning existing systems for compliance with UL 864 9th Edition, note the following functional replacements:
• AMG-1/E has been replaced by the DVC-AO.
• VCM-4RK and DCM-4RK have been replaced by SLC loop output control devices.
• The riser functions of FFT-7/7S have been integrated into Digital Voice Command systems as described in the main system manual;
the permanent master handset is provided by the TELH-1. (Note that where “F.F.T.” appears in print now, it serves as an acronym
for “firefighters’telephone.)
2.3 Power-Supply and Battery Requirements
The installation manual for each fire alarm control panel (or its primary power supply if that is a separate document) provides calcula-
tions that must be done to determine standby and alarm DC current loads.Ampere-hour requirements must be calculated as well to deter-
mine battery size. The specific calculations may vary; use the instructions provided in your FACP/power supply documentation.
The following values are to be used in the FACP’s Power Supply Calculations:
• For AC Branch Circuit current requirements, allow 1.0 A current for each AA-30, and 1.85 A current for each AA-100 or AA-120.
• For calculating Secondary, non-fire alarm current draw, allow 0.045 Afor each AA-30, and 0.050 Afor each AA-100 or AA-120.
Do not include AA-series audio amplifiers in primary current-draw calculations, because they are calculated as power supplies
when AC power is available. (If AA-series audio amplifiers are not specifically listed in the manual for your compatible, UL-listed
FACP/power supply, enter this in the row provided for “Compatible devices not listed above”.)
• For calculating the Maximum Secondary Power fire alarm current draw, allow 3.0 A for each AA-30 and 7.3 A for eachAA-100 or
AA-120. (Exclude amplifiers that are employed for backup.)
DVC-AO sends a low-level
analog audio message
to an AA-series audio amplifier.
AA-30, AA-100, or AA-120
amplifies the message and
sends a high-level analog audio
signal to the speaker-control module
(or group of modules).
CBE programming
turns on SLC devices
programmed as
speaker-control
modules.
FACP
receives
an alarm
Speaker-control
module turns on
and sends
high-level audio
to its speakers.
If additional speaker-control
modules are connected,
the others also turn on and
send the same message
to their speakers.
If optional Class X return is
connected, the last
speaker-control module
sends high-level audio
back to the audio amplifier.
If optional Class A return is
connected, the last AA-30,
AA-100, or AA-120 sends
low-level audio back to the
DVC-AO.
Figure 2.1 Product Overview

10 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Section 3: Amplifying Audio Messages
3.1 Topics Covered
Audio-amplification topics covered in this section:
• Section 3.2 “DVC-AO Connections”
• Section 3.3 “AA-30 Installation”
• Section 3.4 “AA-30 Operation”
• Section 3.5 “AA-100/AA-120 Installation”
• Section 3.6 “AA-100/AA-120 General Operation”
• Section 3.7 “Adjusting the Audio Gain Level”
• Section 3.8 “Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers”
– Section 3.8.1 “Two Primary AA-30s Without Backup”
– Section 3.8.2 “Two Primary AA-100/AA-120s Without Backup”
– Section 3.8.3 “Two Primary Amplifiers With Backup”
3.2 DVC-AO Connections
The DVC-AO option board generates low-level analog audio messages that may be used as inputs to AA-Series audio amplifiers.
Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2 provide a closeup view of connections on the DVC-AO, to be used in conjunction with the other wiring dia-
grams in this manual.
DVC-AOapp.wmf
Low level analog audio to AA series audio
DVC-AO Outputs 1 - 4
Optional 4-wire return
AA Series
audio amplifier terminals
S+ -
Lowlevel
audio IN Lowlevel
audio
RET
S+ -
Figure 3.1 Wiring the DVC-AO Board

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 11
AA-30 Installation Amplifying Audio Messages
For further details and installation instructions about ACT-2, see the ACT-2 Product Installation Document.
3.3 AA-30 Installation
3.3.1 Mounting an AA-30
The AA-30 mounts in a CHS-4Lchassis, which can hold two units placed side by side. The following steps apply to the installation of an
Audio Amplifier.
1. Mount the unit(s) into the CHS-4L (see Figure 3.3):
– Put the bottom end of the AA-30 assembly into the slots
in the bottom of the CHS-4L chassis. Swing the
assembly into the chassis.
– Secure theAA-30 to the chassis with the washers and
retaining nuts. Tighten securely.
2. Connect a primary (AC) and a secondary (24 VDC battery)
power source to each unit.
3. Provide an external device (such as the CHG-120) for
charging the batteries.
4. Adjust the Audio Gain Level. See Section 3.7 “Adjusting
the Audio Gain Level”.
3.3.2 Connecting an AA-30
Figure 3.4 and Figure 3.5 show terminal connections to an AA-30. See Section 3.8 “Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers” for applications
using more than one amplifier.
• The low-level audio input and high-level audio output “P” connectors are primarily for in-cabinet applications where the wiring to
or from the AA-30 remains in the cabinet. For multiple-cabinet applications, hard-wire the system using terminal blocks P3 and P8.
• To use high-level audio (25 Vrms output) with four-wire supervision:
–Cut resistors R8 and R9 on theAA-30 (Figure 3.5), or
–Cut resistor R100 on the AA-120 or AA-120 (Figure 3.10).
• Some installations require an ACT-1 or ACT-2 Audio Coupling Transformer. See the ACT-1 Installation Document or the ACT-2
Installation Document for further details and installation instructions.
AA-100/AA-100Eor
AA-120/AA-120E AA-30/AA-30E
AA-30/AA-30E
P3 P8
High-level Audio
Low-level analog audio*
Optional 4-wire (high-level) return from last ACT-2
To other ACT-2s
P3
TB1
P1
Low-level Audio
Low-level Audio
TB1
P1
P3
ACT-2
DVC-AO
ACT-2
To other AA-Series
amplifiers in the
cabinet
To other AA-Series
amplifiers in the
cabinet
DVC_AOact2.wmf
Note: For low-level audio’s optional return, see Figure 3.1.
Figure 3.2 Wiring the DVC-AO Board
Aa30chs4.wmf
Washer and
retaining nut
(4 places)
Figure 3.3 Mounting an AA-30 into the CHS-4L Chassis

12 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Amplifying Audio Messages AA-30 Operation
3.4 AA-30 Operation
During complete loss of primary (AC) power, the AA-30 operates on secondary (battery) power. To conserve secondary power, no LEDs
light on the AA-30 while operating on batteries.
The amplifier does not indicate a trouble condition until 40 seconds after a fault occur.
P1 P2
Secondary Power (DC)
Battery – – – + + +
AA30lobrd.wmf
EarthEarth
Primary Power (AC)
HOT
NEUTRAL
Figure 3.4 AA-30 Lower Board Connections (nonpower-limited)
P4 P5 P6 P7
P3 P8
R8
R9
(+) Backup In
(–)
(shield)
(+) Backup Out
(–)
(shield)
(+) High Level Out
(–)
(shield)
(+) High Level Return
(–) (Four wire, supervised)
(shield)
Trouble
AA30upbrd.wmf
High Level Audio Return (Four wire)
High Level Audio Out
Backup High Level Audio Out
Backup High Level Audio In
Trouble Out
Trouble In
Low-level Audio Thru
Low-level Audio In
Unused
Low-level
Audio In
(–)
(+)
(shield)
Resistors R8 & R9 Cut to enable
high-level return for 4-wire mode
Low-level
Audio Thru
(–)
(+)
(shield)
To/From DVC-AO (Class A)
To/From Speaker-
control devices
(i.e. control
modules)
Figure 3.5 AA-30 Upper Board Connections (power-limited)

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 13
AA-100/AA-120 Installation Amplifying Audio Messages
3.4.1 Circuit Board Layout
Layout of the AA-30 circuit board and identification of its operating components:
3.4.2 LED Conditions
Conditions that cause eachAA-30 System Status Indicator LED to light:
3.5 AA-100/AA-120 Installation
3.5.1 Installing an AA-100 or AA-120
The AA-100 or AA-120 mounts directly to the cabinet backbox. The following steps apply to the installation of anAudio Amplifier:
1. Mount the unit into the system cabinet.
2. Connect primary (AC) and secondary (24 VDC battery) power source to the unit.
3. Provide an external device (such as a CHG-120) for charging the batteries.
4. Adjust the Audio Gain Level. See page 16.
5. Select a Backup Tone. See page 16.
3.5.2 Mounting an AA-100 or AA-120
Mount an AA-100 or AA-120 directly to the backbox by following these steps and referring to the figure below:
1. Mount the AA-100 or AA-120 onto the PEM studs on the cabinet backbox (in the same way as the CHS-4 and CHS-4L chassis) as
shown below.
Audio Gain
Rotary Switch
Normal Level LED
Incorrect Level LED
Speaker Trouble LED
Amplifier Trouble LED
Battery Trouble LED
Brownout LED
AA-30.wmf
Figure 3.6 AA-30 LED and Switch Locations
LED Lights when
normal level The audio amplifier is adjusted properly and operating correctly during normal (non-alarm) conditions.
incorrect level Low-level audio input is missing, out of range, or the audio gain is out of adjustment.
speaker trouble An open circuit condition occurs in the four-wire, high-level output.
amplifier trouble A loss of the low-level audio input signal, or an amplifier failure.
battery trouble The battery voltage is below a sufficient level.
brownout The AC power source is below a sufficient level. During a complete loss of AC power, no LEDs will light on the AA-30.
Table 3.1 AA-30 LED Functions

14 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Amplifying Audio Messages AA-100/AA-120 Installation
2. Install the two #8 nuts and lock washers (Figure 3.7) onto the PEM studs and tighten until secure.
3.5.3 Connecting an AA-100 or AA-120
Figure 3.8 and Figure 3.9 show terminal connections to anAA-100/AA-120.
• Low-level audio input and high-level audio output “P” connectors are primarily for in-cabinet applications where the wiring to or
from the amplifier remains in the cabinet. For multiple-cabinet applications hard-wire the system using terminal blocks P3 & P8.
When more than one cabinet is required, cabinets must be mounted adjacent to each other and all interconnecting wiring must be
installed in conduit.
• To use high-level audio (25 Vrms output) with four-wire supervision, cut resistor R100 as shown in Figure 3.10. Note: In the AA-
120, this option is only required when output wiring leaves the cabinet.
• If the amplifier is being used in stand-alone mode (no connection to DVC-AO) where the backup high/low or slow whoop tone
generator is being used, resistor R107 (see Figure 3.10) must be cut to prevent the amplifier from generating a trouble condition.
The amplifier will indicate trouble within 90 seconds.
• Some installations require an ACT-1 or ACT-2 Audio Coupling Transformer. See the ACT-1 Installation Document or the ACT-2
Installation Document for further details and installation instructions.
AA120mount.wmf
AA-100/-120
Figure 3.7 Mounting an AA-100 or AA-120
P1 P2
Secondary (DC) Power
Battery
––++
Primary (AC) Power
Earth Hot Neutral Earth
AA120lobrd.wmf
Figure 3.8 AA-100/AA-120 Lower Board Connections (nonpower limited)

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 15
AA-100/AA-120 General Operation Amplifying Audio Messages
3.6 AA-100/AA-120 General Operation
During complete loss of primary (AC) power, the AA-100/AA-120 operates on secondary (battery) power. To conserve secondary
power, no LEDs light on the AA-100 or AA-120 while operating on batteries.
The amplifier does not indicate a trouble condition until 40 seconds after a fault occurs.
(shield)
(–)
(+)
(shield)
(–)
(+)
(–)
(+)
Earth
High Level
Audio Out
25 Vrms (AA-120)
High Level Audio
Return (Four-wire,
supervised)
(–)
(+)
(shield)
(–)
(+)
(shield)
Common
Trouble
Trouble In
Trouble Out
Low-level Audio In
Low-level Audio Thru
Backup High Level In
Backup High Level Out
High Level Audio Out
AA120upbrd.wmf
High Level
Audio Out
70.7 Vrms
(AA-100, see note)
Low-level
Audio In
Low-level
Audio Thru*
Note if using 70.7 Vrms speakers: Due to higher power dissipation at the 70.7 volt audio level, the 2 watt, 4.7K end of line resistors
supplied with the AA-100 Audio Amplifier must be used in place of the resistors supplied with the speaker-control devices. Systems
configured for 70.7 Vrms operation must use Class B wiring.
*Note: If not using Class A low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last
directly connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
P7
P4 P5 P6
P8
P3
P10 P9 P2 P1
Figure 3.9 AA-100 and AA-120 Upper Board Connections (power-limited)

16 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Amplifying Audio Messages Adjusting the Audio Gain Level
3.6.1 AA-100/AA-120 Circuit Board Layout
Layout of the AA-100/AA-120 circuit board and identification of its operating components:
3.6.2 AA-100/AA-120 LED Conditions
Conditions that cause each AA-100/AA-120 System Status Indicator LED to light:
3.6.3 Selecting the Backup Tone on AA-100/AA-120
The AA-100 and AA-120 Audio Amplifiers automatically produce a backup tone when the low-level audio input is lost. You can select
the backup tone by following these steps.
1. Locate SW1 in the lower right-hand corner of the AA-100 or AA-120 (Figure 3.10).
2. Set SW1 to Hi/Lo or Slow Whoop as the default backup tone as shown below.
3.7 Adjusting the Audio Gain Level
An audio amplifier contains a multi-position rotary switch that lets you adjust the gain of the audio output signal. This adjustment com-
pensates for audio line losses. After correct adjustment, an audio amplifier can produce its maximum rated output power of 25 Vrms
(AA-30, AA-120) or 70.7 Vrms (AA-100).
Normal Level LED
Incorrect Level LED Battery Trouble LED
Brownout LED
Speaker Trouble LED
Input Trouble LED
Amplifier Trouble LED
Audio Gain Rotary Switch
SW1 - Backup tone switch
R100 - Resistor (cut for
four-wire supervision)
AA-120.wmf
R107 - Resistor (cut for
stand-alone mode)
Figure 3.10 AA-100/AA-120 LED and Switch Locations
LED Lights when
normal level The audio amplifier is adjusted properly and operating correctly during normal (non-alarm) conditions.
incorrect level The audio amplifier is not sensing low-level audio, or the gain is not adjusted properly.
battery trouble The battery voltage is below a sufficient level.
brownout TheAC power source is below a sufficient level. During a complete loss of AC power, no LEDs will light on the
AA-100/AA-120.
speaker trouble An open circuit condition occurs in the four-wire, high-level output.
input trouble A loss of the low-level audio input signal, or an amplifier failure.
amplifier trouble A loss of the low-level audio input signal, or an amplifier failure.
Table 3.2 AA-100/AA-120 LED Functions
Hi/Lo Slow Whoop
Figure 3.11 SW1 Backup Tone Switch

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 17
Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers Amplifying Audio Messages
When finished installing all amplifiers and associated circuitry, adjust the audio gain as follows:
1. Locate the Audio Gain Rotary Switch on AA-30 (Figure 3.6) orAA-100 and AA-120 (Figure 3.10).
2. Use a small common screwdriver to turn theAudio Gain Rotary Switch until the Normal Level LED and Incorrect Level LED are
properly adjusted as shown in Table 3.3.
3.8 Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers
3.8.1 Two Primary AA-30s Without Backup
Figure 3.12 shows the use of two AA-30s without backup and Table 3.4 lists the wiring components used.
• The speaker circuits on the first AA-30 share 30 watts from that AA-30; the speaker circuits on the second AA-30 share 30 watts
from that AA-30.
• To use high-level audio (25 Vrms output) with four-wire supervision, cut resistors R8 and R9 on the AA-30 (Figure 3.5).
• This wiring diagram applies to AA-30 audio amplifiers. Connections to plugs P1, P2, P4, P5, P6, P9, and P10 are identical.
Typical wiring of two primary AA-30 audio amplifiers without using a backup amplifier. This sample shows how to connect to speaker
circuit control modules within cabinet, using Cable 75109:
Audio Level Normal Level LED Incorrect Level LED
Properly Adjusted ON OFF
Adjusted too Low OFF ON
Adjusted too high ON ON
Table 3.3 Adjusting the Audio Level
NOTE: 70.7 Vrms speakers require the 2 watt, 4.7K end-of-line resistors (P⁄N 90224) supplied with the AA-100 Audio Amplifier in place of
the resistors supplied with the speaker-control devices. Systems configured for 70.7 Vrms operation must be wired as Class B.
NOTE: If not using ClassA low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last directly
connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Item Supplied with Part Number
Low-level audio cable AA-30 75110
25-volt audio cable AA-30 75109
Table 3.4 Wiring Inventory
Second AA-30First AA-30
To Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
inside cabinet
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Cable 75109
Optional
Class A
Audio
Return*
(Low-Level)
voice-audsig-nobaDVCAO.wmf
DVC-AO Outputs
1, 2, 3, or 4
(See DVC Manual for details)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
To Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
inside cabinet
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Cable 75109
Cable
75110
Unamplified
low-level audio
(Twisted-pair,
14-18 AWG)
Note: Cables must enter from top of the plug.
*Note: If not using Class A low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last
directly connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Figure 3.12 Wiring Two AA-30’s Without a Backup Amplifier

18 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Amplifying Audio Messages Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers
3.8.2 Two Primary AA-100/AA-120s Without Backup
Figure 3.13 and Figure 3.14 show the use of two audio amplifiers without backup and Table 3.5 lists the wiring components used.
• The speaker circuits on the first audio amplifier share 100/120 watts from that audio amplifier; the speaker circuits on the second
audio amplifier share 100/120 watts from that audio amplifier.
• To use high-level audio (25 Vrms output) with four-wire supervision, cut resistor R100 on the AA-120 or AA-120 (Figure 3.10).
• This wiring diagram applies to AA-100 and AA-120 audio amplifiers. Connections to plugs P1, P2, P4, P5, P6, P9, and P10 are
identical.
Typical wiring of two primary AA-120 audio amplifiers without using a backup amplifier. This option shows how to connect to speaker
circuit control modules at a distance, using twisted-pair wire (18 AWG recommended):
Item Supplied with Part Number
Low-level audio cable AA-100, and AA-120 75110
25-volt audio cable AA-100, and AA-120 75109
Table 3.5 Wiring Inventory
AA-120-nobackupDVCAO.wmf
DVC-AO Outputs
1, 2, 3, or 4
(See DVC Manual for
details)
2nd AA-120
25V High-level Output
to Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
25V High-level Output
to Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Cable
75110
Optional
Class A
Audio
Return*
(Low-Level) Shield
Unamplified
low-level audio
(Twisted-pair,
14-18 AWG)
1st AA-120
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Notes: Cables must enter from top of the plug.
*Note: If not using Class A low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last
directly connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Figure 3.13 Wiring Two AA-120’s Without a Backup Amplifier

AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019 19
Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers Amplifying Audio Messages
Typical wiring of two primary AA-100 audio amplifiers without using a backup amplifier:
3.8.3 Two Primary Amplifiers With Backup
Use an AA-30, AA-100 or AA-120 audio amplifier to back up one or more amplifiers. If an amplifier fails, backup amplifier switching
is automatic.
Connect P6 on the backup amplifier to P4 on the first primary amplifier as shown in Figure 3.15. If there are multiple primary amplifiers,
use P5 to feed the P4 connector on successive amplifiers.
Figure 3.15 shows a typical wiring configuration using an AA-120 as a backup amplifier, Figure 3.16 below shows the use of twoAA-
30s where one serves as a backup, and Table 3.6 lists the wiring components used.
• This wiring diagram applies to AA-30, AA-100, and AA-120 audio amplifiers. Connections to plugs P1, P2, P4, P5, P6, P9, and
P10 are identical.
AA-100-nobackupDVCAO.wmf
DVC-AO Outputs
1, 2, 3, or 4
(See DVC Manual for
details)
2nd AA-100
70V High-level Output
to Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Cable
75110
Optional
Class A
Audio
Return*
(Low-Level)
Shield
Unamplified
low-level audio
(Twisted-pair, 14-
18 AWG)
1st AA-100
Note: Cables must enter from top of the plug.
*Note: If not using Class Alow-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last directly
connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
70V High-level Output
to Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Figure 3.14 Wiring Two AA-100’s Without a Backup Amplifier
Item Supplied with Part Number
Low-level audio cable AA-30, AA-100, AA-120 75110
25-volt audio cable AA-30, AA-100, AA-120 75109
Backup audio Cable 75108
Table 3.6 Wiring Inventory

20 AA-series Audio Amplifiers Manual for DVC-AO Applications — P/N 52526:B 8/13/2019
Amplifying Audio Messages Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers
Typical wiring of two AA-120s using one AA-120 as a backup:
Typical wiring of two AA-30s using one AA-30 as a backup:
AA-120-withbackupDVCAO.wmf
To Speaker Circuit
Control Modules
(e.g. XP6-C, FCM-1)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Note: Cables must enter from top of the plug.
*Note: If not using Class A low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last
directly connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Cable 75108
Cable 75110
Unamplified
low-level audio
(Twisted-pair,
14-18 AWG)
Figure 3.15 Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers: One Primary AA-120 With One Backup
DVC-AO Outputs
1, 2, 3, or 4
(See DVC Manual for
details)
Optional
Class A
Audio
Return*
(Low-Level)
1st Primary
AA-30
AA-30-withbackupDVCAO.wmf
To Speaker
Circuit Control
Modules inside
cabinet (e.g.
XP6-C,FCM-1)
Cable 75109
Cable
75110 Cable
75110
Cable
75108
Note: Cables must enter from top of the plug.
*Note: If not using Class A low-level audio return, an R-470 resistor assembly may be installed across P3, pins 4 and 5 of the last directly
connected device on the low-level audio riser; this may help to calibrate the audio amplifier.
Unamplified
low-level audio
(Twisted-pair,
14-18 AWG)
2nd Primary
AA-30 Backup AA-30
To Speaker
Circuit Control
Modules inside
cabinet (e.g.
XP6-C, FCM-1)
Cable 75109 Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
DVC-AO Outputs
1, 2, 3, or 4
(See DVC Manual for details)
Optional
Class A
Audio
Return*
(Low-Level)
Optional
4-Wire
Supervised
Return
(High-Level)
Cable 75108
Figure 3.16 Wiring Multiple Audio Amplifiers: Two Primary AA-30s With One Backup