JBL VTX Series Quick start guide

VTX B18 | Rigging Manual

VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
GENERAL INFORMATION
VTX B18 - Rigging Manual
Document Number: 1000337286
Version: B - EN
Distribution Date: 01/05/2019
Copyright © 2019 by HARMAN International; all rights reserved
JBL PROFESSIONAL
8500 Balboa Blvd
Northridge, CA 91329
USA

VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
Thank you for purchasing JBL VTX Series products
Of all the achievements JBL has made over the years, the VTX Series stands as a milestone in the practical application
of creative engineering. The next generation in line arrays, VTX heralds a new era in performance, system integration and
user friendliness. Supported by multiple patents in driver, waveguide and suspension technology, VTX is also supported
by technologies from HARMAN Professional sister companies for amplification, DSP, control and system management. In
addition to high-performance components, VTX is backed by JBL’s engineering support — the human factor and technical
tools that are key to the proper specification and configuration of the VTX system in any venue, anywhere in the world.
The VTX Series is a result of JBL’s continued effort to deliver more powerful, more compact, lightweight and flexible
sound reinforcement systems. Designed for portable and fixed-venue system operators alike, VTX features JBL’s legend-
ary sound quality coupled with the most advanced sound reinforcement technology and support available. As a member
of the HARMAN group, we draw from the expertise and integration of the entire range of HARMAN Pro audio technologies.
So, in addition to the best sound possible, VTX offers efficient and intuitive setup, tuning, networking and control to provide
a truly professional and advanced system solution.

VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ...........................................................................6
2 - SAFETY .................................................................................................7
2.1 - Safety Instructions ...................................................................................7
2.2 - General Hardware Information ..........................................................................7
2.3 - Attachment to Structures ..............................................................................7
2.4 - Important Safety Warning .............................................................................8
2.5 - Are You New to Rigging? ..............................................................................8
2.6 - Inspection and Maintenance ...........................................................................8
2.7 - Symbols ...........................................................................................9
3 - MECHANICAL LIMITS ....................................................................................10
3.1 - VTX B18 Limits - Suspended Array .....................................................................10
4 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS .................................................................................11
5 - SOFTWARE.............................................................................................12
5.1 - Line Array Calculator 3 TM ...............................................................................................12
5.2 - Array Link TM .......................................................................................................................................................13
6 - B18 RIGGING SYSTEM OVERVIEW .........................................................................14
6.1 - Rigging Closeup ....................................................................................14
6.2 - Deploying the rigging Bars ............................................................................15
7 - TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS ..............................................................................17
7.1 - Rotating the Dolly Tabs - For use with the ACC Dolly .......................................................18
7.2 - VTX B18 ACC Dolly Overview..........................................................................20
7.3 - Attaching the VTX B18 ACC Dolly ......................................................................21
7.4 - Stacking the ACC Dolly Boards ......................................................................22
7.5 - Truck Packing with ACC ..............................................................................24
7.6 - Installing VTX B18 Cabinets on a VT ....................................................................26
7.7 - Stacking the VTX B18 VT .............................................................................29
7.8 - Truck Packing with VT................................................................................30
8 - SUSPENDING B18 USING THE A8 ARRAY FRAME. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
8.1 - Attaching the Array Frame ............................................................................31
8.2 - Suspending B18 Arrays ..............................................................................34
8.3 - Connecting Additional B18 Stacks .....................................................................35
9 - THE VTX A8 SUSPENSION BAR ...........................................................................37
9.1 - Suspension Bar Overview ..............................................................................................37
9.2 - Suspension Bar Attachment Tabs .......................................................................................38

VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
9.3 - Attaching the Suspension Bar .........................................................................39
9.4 - Suspension Bar Use-cases............................................................................40
9.5 - Using the VTX A8 SB for Pull-Back .....................................................................................41
9.6 - Bull-Back Use-cases ................................................................................42
10 - SUSPENDING B18 USING THE A8 MINI FRAME..............................................................43
10.1 - Mini Frame Overview ...............................................................................43
10.2 - Attaching the Mini Frame ............................................................................44
10.3 - Mini Frame Suspension Options ......................................................................46
10.4 - Selecting spreader-bar positions ......................................................................47
10.5 - Mini Frame and RC500 ..............................................................................48
11 - SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................49
11.1 - VTX A8 AF........................................................................................49
11.2 - VTX A8 AF EB .....................................................................................50
11.3 - VTX A8 MF .......................................................................................51
11.4 - VTX A8 SB........................................................................................52
11.5 - VTX B18 VT.......................................................................................53
11.6 - VTX B18 ACC .....................................................................................54
12 - CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................55

6
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Frank Lacelle
Compliance Manager - Harman International
STANDARD DESCRIPTION TEST AGENCY
2006/42/EC
MACHINE DIRECTIVE
Applies to machinery and lays down essential health and
safety requirements.
ISO12100
Tested at JBL Professional
2014/35/EC
LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE
Applies to loudspeaker and lays down essential health
and safety requirements.
EN60065
Tested at JBL Professional
BRAND: JBL Professional
FAMILY NAME: VTX A8/B18 loudspeaker and suspension accessories
• VTX A8
• VTX A8 AF
• VTX A8 AF EB
• VTX A8 MF
• VTX A8 SB
• VTX A8 BP
MODEL NAMES:
We, HARMAN International, declare under our sole responsibility that the product, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity
with the following standards:
• VTX RC500
• VTX A8 VT
• VTX B18
• VTX B18 VT
• VTX B18 ACC

7
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
2 - SAFETY
2.1 - SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions
2. Keep these instructions
3. Heed all warnings
4. Follow all instructions
5. Do not expose the product to direct rain or sea spray
6. Clean only with a dry cloth
7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat
8. Only use attachments / accessories specified by the manufacturer
9. 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
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such
as liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped
11. Contact JBL Professional for advanced servicing issues
12. CAUTION - DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO SO
13. Prolonged exposure to excessive SPL can cause hearing damage: the loudspeaker is easily capable of generating sound pressure
levels (SPL) sufficient to cause permanent hearing damage to performers, production crew and audience members. Caution should
be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to SPL in excess of 90 dB
14. Read the System Rigging Manual before installation and use of the product
2.2 - GENERAL HARDWARE INFORMATION
Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load rated for the intended use. Generally, this type of hardware is
available from rigging supply houses, industrial supply catalogs and specialized rigging distributors. Local hardware stores do not usu-
ally stock these products. Hardware that is intended for overhead suspension will comply with ASME B30.20 and will be manufactured
under product traceability controls. Compliant hardware will be referenced with a working load limit (WLL) and a traceability code.
2.3 - ATTACHMENT TO STRUCTURES
A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of attachment to the structure prior to the installation of any
overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided to the Professional Engineer for design purposes: Uniform
Building Code as applicable, Municipal Building Code as applicable, and Seismic Code as applicable. The installation of the hardware
and method of attachment must be carried out in the manner specified by the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in
damage, injury or death.

8
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
2.5 - ARE YOU NEW TO RIGGING?
If you are new to rigging, you should do the following:
• Know the rules for safe rigging.
• Attend a safe rigging seminar.
• Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Get in the habit of asking them questions in-
stead of assuming their answers. Learn from what they tell you.
• Research and understand the codes, practices and requirements in the venues where you intend to operate your sound system.
2.4 - IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING
The information in this section has been assembled from recognized engineering data and is intended for informational purposes only.
None of the information in this section should be used without first obtaining competent advice with respect to applicability to a given
circumstance. None of the information presented herein is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making
use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.
All information presented herein is based upon materials and practices common to North America and may not directly apply to other
countries because of differing material dimensions, specifications and/or local regulations. Users in other countries should consult with
appropriate engineering and regulatory authorities for specific guidelines.
Correct use of all included hardware is required for secure system suspension. Careful calculations should always be performed to
ensure that all components are used within their working load limits before the array is suspended. Never exceed the maximum recom-
mended load ratings.
Before suspending any speaker system always inspect all components (enclosure, rigging frames, pins, eyebolts, track fittings, etc.) for
cracks, deformations, corrosion or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend
the speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending JBL suspendable loud-
speaker models.
2.6 - INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Suspension systems are comprised of mechanical devices and, as such, they require regular inspection and routine maintenance to
ensure proper functionality. Before suspending or pole mounting any speaker system, always inspect all components (enclosure, sus-
pension frames or brackets, pins, eyebolts, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce
strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend or pole mount the speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken.
Installed systems should be inspected at least annually. The inspection shall include a visual survey of all corners and load-bearing
surfaces for signs of cracking, water damage, de-lamination or any other condition that may decrease the strength of the loudspeaker
enclosure.
Accessory suspension hardware provided with or for VTX systems must be inspected for fatigue at least annually or as required by local
ordinance. The inspection shall include a visual survey of the material for signs of corrosion, bending or any other condition that may
decrease the strength of the fastener. Additionally, any eyebolts shall be checked for possible spin-out of the enclosure.
For all other hardware and fittings, refer to the hardware manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance guidelines for process.

9
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
2.7 - SYMBOLS
The following set of symbols are used in this document:
CAUTION: This symbol gives notice of a potential risk of harm to the individual or the equipment. Instruction
marked with this symbol must be strictly followed.
TIP: This symbol gives notice of helpful, relevant information about the topic.
INSTRUCTIONS: This symbol gives notice of instructions that must be followed for proper installation and use of
the product.
TOOLS REQUIRED: This symbol gives notice of tools that must be used for proper installation and use of the
product.
JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information for any purpose. Furthermore,
JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or
any other abuse.
Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained and experienced in suspending speaker systems, should inspect all parts and com-
ponents.

10
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
3 - MECHANICAL LIMITS
The VTX B18 suspension system and accessories comply with the 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive and have been designed following
the guidelines of BGV-C1 for a minimum safety factor of 4:1. Minimum safety factor requirements are often set by local regulations and
the JBL Line Array Calculator TM should always be used to check mechanical limits.
TERMINOLOGIES:
Safe Limit: The safe limit provides the number of cabinets that can be used in an array and always produce a safety factor of 4:1 or
higher. The safety factor of an array is determined by the number of boxes, the array shape, and the overall array angle. An A8 array that
is within the safe limit will always yield a safety factor greater than 4:1 regardless of the array parameters and conditions. Designs much
greater than the safe limit, and up to the maximum limit can be achieved, but the JBL Line Array Calculator software should be used to
check mechanical safety for the given configuration.
Maximum Limit: Arrays larger than the maximum limit are not allowed under any conditions.
ARRAY FRAME NOTES SAFE LIMIT MAXIMUM LIMIT
VTX A8 AF + EB VTX A8 AF - Array Frame with Extension Bar attached 12 x B18 16 x B18
VTX A8 SB 1 x Suspension Bar used as an Array Frame (top center) 16 x B18 16 x B18
VTX A8 SB (X2) 2 x Suspension Bars used at the top (front / rear rigging bars) 10 x B18 16 x B18
VTX A8 SB (X2) 2 x Suspension Bars used at the top and bottom (pull-back) 12 x B18 16 x B18
VTX A8 MF VTX A8 MF - Mini Frame 4 x B18 4 x B18
3.1 - VTX B18 LIMITS - SUSPENDED ARRAY
NOTES:
• LAC-3 allows for array designs with a minimum design factor of 4:1. Anything lower than that is not allowed
• For exact mechanical limits of combination arrays (A8s suspended under B18s) always check the design with LAC-3
• For mechanical limits when using dual Suspension Bars always check the design with LAC-3
• For additional information on B18 limits, refer to the VTX B18 Rigging Manual
• ANSI Standard E1.8-2005 (Entertainment Technology Loudspeaker Enclosures Intended for Overhead Suspension), Section 5.3.4,
specifies a minimum safety factor of 5:1. If compliance with the ANSI standard is needed, make sure that the array design in LAC-3
produces a minimum safety factor of 5:1

11
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
4 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS
VTX A18 AF | Array Frame
VTX A8 SB | Suspension Bar
VTX A8 AF EB | Extension Bar
VTX B18
VTX A8 MF | Mini Frame VTX B18 ACC | Dolly Board & Cover
VTX B18 VT | Vertical Transporter VTX B18 VT CVR | Soft Cover VTX RC500 | Rotating Clamp
CAUTION: Always use components and accessories specified and approved by JBL Professional. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart to avoid injury from tip-over.

12
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
5 - SOFTWARE
5.1 - LINE ARRAY CALCULATOR 3 TM
LAC is a simulation software for designing and predicting JBL VTX Series systems. LAC predicts the acoustical performance coverage of
line array systems as well as flown and ground stacked subwoofer arrays. Enhanced acoustical modeling includes color SPL mapping, 0
dB isobar and SPL attenuation modes with the frequency response and SPL based on JBL’s DSP presets. Up to 8 virtual microphones
can be placed in the venue for accurate, position-dependent response prediction. Additionally, subwoofer modeling is now offered.
Subwoofer delay values can be generated for electronic delay steering (EDS) of subwoofer arrays using the built-in calculator.
Beyond the acoustical prediction, LAC is used for mechanical validation of all used suspension hardware. Weight limits are calculated
in real time for single or dual-point suspensions. An array design factor is calculated that can be used for designing an array within local
regulation limits. Safety warning massages are displayed when an unsafe configuration has been selected. Array statistics like array
size, depth and weight are also calculated.

13
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
5.2 - ARRAY LINK TM
JBL Array Link is a mobile companion app that works in conjunction with JBL’s latest LAC software to assist technicians deploying JBL
VTX Series systems. Array Link uses a QR code system to transfer all array mechanical information from the main LAC application to a
mobile phone—this transfer is done directly and in real time. All relevant rigging information and options are presented in an easy-to-un-
derstand layout. The application is compatible with iOS® and Android™ and can be obtained from the respective app store for each OS.
The intended workflow for the Array Link app allows the system designer or lead tech to compute all the angles needed for each hang,
and then transmit the information onto their device. This information can then be shared with other users of the app onsite via their
own copy of the Array Link app, or through the other technicians can scan the QR code in LAC with their own device. Once all of the
users have the information they need, arrays can be deployed quickly and efficiently as every member of the crew has the same correct
information for angles, attachment points, trim height, etc.

14
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
6 - B18 RIGGING SYSTEM OVERVIEW
VTX B18 cabinets include a six point, spring-loaded, rigging mechanism that is easy to use and can be used for suspending up to 16
B18 cabinets depending on the configuration. The B18 rigging system can be used to create standalone B18 arrays or mixed arrays
using VTX A8 full-range cabinets suspended under the B18s. All VTX A8 suspension accessories, like the Array Frame, Suspension Bar
and Mini Frame are compatible with the B18. When used in ground-stacked configurations, the spring-loaded rigging mechanism holds
tension on all parts preventing any audible artifacts from vibrations. The B18 rigging system and enclosure is front-to-back symmetric
which means suspended or ground-stacked cardioid arrays can be easily created.
6.1 - RIGGING CLOSEUP
M20 POLE AND BASE PLATE
ATTACHMENT`
REVERSIBLE DOLLY
ATTACHMENT TAB
SPRING-LOADED
RIGGING BAR
CABINET TO CABINET
CONNECTION POINT

15
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
6.2 - DEPLOYING THE RIGGING BARS
The B18 rigging bars (x6) include a spring-loaded mechanism for easy deployment. The bars automatically extend upwards once the
Quick Release Pin (QRP) is removed. Once a bar has been deployed, the same QRP is used to secure the bar in place.
CAUTION: No Quick Release Pins should be left unused when deploying B18 cabinets in suspended configurations.
STEPS:
• Temporarily remove the Quick Release Pin for each position
• The rigging bar automatically extends upwards
• Restore the Quick Release Pins back to the same storage position
1
2
3

16
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
When suspending multiple B18 cabinets together, all 6 rigging points (3 per side) should be used for all B18 cabinets (with the exception
of the top most cabinet which is used to connect to the array frame). Two Quick Release Pins should be used per attachment point as
illustrated below. No Quick Release Pins should be left unused.
CAUTION: No Quick Release Pins should be left unused when deploying B18 cabinets in suspended configurations.

17
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
7 - TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
There are two transportation options for the B18. One is the vertical transportation cart (VTX B18 VT) which allows for vertically trans-
porting up to four B18 subwoofers. When stacked in blocks of 2, 3 or 4, B18 cabinets can be configured in either front-firing or cardioid
mode. The VTX B18 VT CVR, a reinforced protective cover, is available to cover and protect the subwoofers during transportation. The
other option is using the VTX B18 ACC accessory kit, which includes a front face dolly for a single B18 and a protective cover. The VT
option is ideal for large scale touring situations where large format trucks are used and maximum deployment efficiency is needed. The
ACC option is more agile and efficient in terms of transportation since B18 subwoofers can be stacked on top of other product in the
trucks.
VTX B18 VT
VTX B18 ACC

18
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
STEPS:
• Remove the 4 x M6 HEX screws holding the grill onto the B18
• Carefully disconnect the MolexTM connector which is used to connect the 2 front NL4 connectors to the B18
• Remove the 4 x Phillips screws holding each bracket, reverse the orientation of the brackets and reinstall the Phillips screws
• Reconnect the MolexTM connector and secure the grill
1
2
TOOLS REQUIRED: A 4mm HEX key is required to remove the four M6 screws holding the grill on the B18. A Phillips
#2 screwdriver is required for removing the four Phillips screws holding the bracket.
7.1 - ROTATING THE DOLLY TABS - FOR USE WITH THE ACC DOLLY
There are two dolly tabs available at the front of the B18 that are used to secure the front face ACC dolly board to the B18. The tabs are
retractable and ship from the factory oriented towards the inside of the B18. This orientation is ideal when the B18s are used with the
vertical transport cart in which case the tabs are not needed. When the B18 is used with front face dolly boards the tabs are rotated so
that the dolly board can be attached to the subwoofer.
3
4
1
2

19
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
STEPS:
• Remove the 4 x M6 HEX screws holding the grill onto the B18
• Carefully disconnect the MolexTM connector which is used to connect the 2 front NL4 connectors to the B18
• Remove the 4 x Phillips screws holding each bracket, reverse the orientation of the brackets and reinstall the Phillips screws
• Reconnect the MolexTM connector and secure the grill
1
2
3
4
4
3
TOOLS REQUIRED: A 4mm HEX key is required to remove the four M6 screws holding the grill on the B18. A Phillips
#2 screwdriver is required for removing the four Phillips screws holding the bracket.

20
VTX B18 | Rigging Manual
7.2 - VTX B18 ACC DOLLY OVERVIEW
The VTX B18 ACC dolly board features two beveled recessed rotating cams (one on each side), which are used for attaching the dolly
board to a B18 cabinet. The dolly board auto-locates with the B18 mounting tabs and the rotating cams are used to secure the dolly
onto the B18.
CAM MECHANISM: UNLOCKED
CAM MECHANISM: LOCKED
TIP: The rotating cam mechanism can be released using your feet while B18 cabinets are face down.