LRAD 500X User manual

LRAD®-500X
EQUIPMENT MANUAL
LRAD Corporation
15378 Avenue of Science
San Diego, CA 92128
www.lradx.com
Catalog: LRAD-500X-MANUAL
Part No.: 104807-01 Rev. A
Revised March 10, 2011
Copyright, 2011, LRAD Corp.

LRAD 500X
Table of Contents
Table of Contents............................................................................................................................ 2
List of Figures .................................................................................................................................. 2
List Tables........................................................................................................................................ 3
1.0 Important Safety Information.................................................................................................. 4
Power Cord Termination................................................................................................................. 5
System Description ......................................................................................................................... 5
Operator Controls and Connections............................................................................................... 7
Rear Panel Connections .............................................................................................................. 7
Auxiliary DC Output .................................................................................................................... 7
DC Power Input ........................................................................................................................... 8
MP3 Player Input ........................................................................................................................ 8
Microphone Input ....................................................................................................................... 9
Rear Panel Controls and Indicators............................................................................................. 9
Main Power Switch ................................................................................................................... 10
Resettable Breaker.................................................................................................................... 10
Sound Projection Switch ........................................................................................................... 10
Volume Control......................................................................................................................... 10
Voice Boost Switch.................................................................................................................... 11
LED Status Indicators ................................................................................................................ 11
System Setup................................................................................................................................. 11
Operation – Hailing and Warning ................................................................................................. 15
Care and Maintenance.................................................................................................................. 16
Troubleshooting and Repairs........................................................................................................ 17
Schematic Diagram ....................................................................................................................... 19
Spare Parts/Support...................................................................................................................... 20
Specifications ................................................................................................................................ 21
15.0 Technical Support ................................................................................................................ 22
List of Figures
Figure 1: LRAD-500X outside dimensions and mounting points. Operator Controls and
Connections .................................................................................................................................... 6
Operator Controls and Connections............................................................................................... 7
Figure 2: LRAD-500X mounting point details................................................................................ 12
Figure 3: MP3 Player Controls ...................................................................................................... 14
Figure 4: Do not attempt to listen to the output side of the unit. ............................................... 16

LRAD 500X
List Tables
LRAD-500X-SPARES ....................................................................................................................... 20
LRAD-500X-REPAIR........................................................................................................................ 20
Environmental............................................................................................................................... 21

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1.0 Important Safety Information
The LRAD-500X is capable of producing sound pressure levels that have the potential to cause
temporary or permanent hearing damage.
Always follow the safety precautions described in this manual as well as on the unit’s interfaces.
The following conventions apply in this manual. Please note the warnings and take adequate
measures to ensure safe operation of the unit.
Important Safety Instructions.
Risk of electric shock.
Hearing Protection Required.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions in a place known to and accessible by the potential operators
of the LRAD-500X.
3. Heed all warnings contained in this document.
4. Follow all instructions detailed in this document.
5. Install in accordance with the instructions contained in this document.
6. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including some electronics) that produce heat.
7. Do not connect or disconnect any cables to the unit while the primary circuit is live
unless the area is known to be non-hazardous.
8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
9. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of
time.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the
LRAD-500X has been noticeably or substantially damaged in any way, including cord
or plug damage, seriously dented or breached housings, or if liquid has penetrated
the interior of the device or any accessories.
11. Do not open in hazardous locations or areas.

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Power Cord Termination
The LRAD-500X includes a 12 foot power cord for connection to a 12 to 24 Volt DC power
source. The maximum current draw for the LRAD-500X is approximately 30 Amps, depending
on the type of audio being broadcast. The LRAD-500X features a 40 Amp resettable breaker to
protect the system from shorts.
The included power cord is unterminated at the power supply end so that the end user can
install the appropriate termination for their application.
The red and orange wires must be connected to the positive terminal of the power source, and
the black and brown wires must be connected to the negative terminal of the power source.
The shield may be connected to reduce noise or radiated emissions.
Follow the terminal manufacturer’s installation instructions when installing crimp
terminals.
Improper power connection to the LRAD-500X can permanently damage the unit.
System Description
The LRAD-500X consists of a self contained acoustic transducer module with electrical
connections for input devices and power. Audio sources from a portable digital media (MP3)
player or a handheld microphone are amplified and intelligibly projected by the LRAD-500X for
effective communications at distances of 300 meters or more. Additionally, pre-recorded tones
designed to irritate and/or gain the attention of personnel can be played at extreme volume
levels for effective use over distance. The module is designed to significantly minimize the
acoustic sound pressure levels at the rear of the device, making for safe operation with minimal
hearing protection, such as foam earplugs. This module requires a 12 to 28VDC power source
for operation. The module includes hard mounting points for installation in a positioning yoke
or other mounting system.

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Figure 1: LRAD-500X outside dimensions and mounting points.
(Optional yoke support shown)

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Operator Controls and Connections
This section will familiarize the operator with the controls and interface connections on the
LRAD-500X unit. It is important that the user understands these controls prior to powering on
the unit in order to prevent accidental exposure to excessive sound pressure levels.
Rear Panel Connections
Auxiliary DC Output
The auxiliary DC output connector passes through DC power from the DC power input
connector for use on powered accessories that may be mounted on the LRAD-500X.
The output on this connector will always be at the same DC voltage as the input to the
LRAD-500X.
The connector provided is of the following MIL-38999 Type III designation:
MIL-38999/24WB5S
Auxiliary DC output
DC power input
MP3 player input
Microphone input

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This connector provides five #20 socket contacts. The following figure shows the pinout
for this connector:
Contact A: DC output +
Contact B: DC output +
Contact C: Shield
Contact D: DC output –
Contact E: DC output -
DC Power Input
The DC power input is the main power input connector for the
unit. The LRAD-500X can operate at DC input voltage levels between 12 and 28VDC.
The connector provided is of the following MIL-38999 Type III designation:
MIL-38999/24WE6P
This connector provides six #12 pin contacts. The following figure shows the pinout for
this connector:
Pin A: DC in + (RED WIRE)
Pin B: DC in + (ORANGE WIRE)
Pin C: Shield
Pin D: DC in – (BLACK WIRE)
Pin E: DC in – (BROWN WIRE)
Pin F: Not used
MP3 Player Input
The MP3 player input connector is provided for
connection with ATC’s handheld MP3 player. This connection accepts line-level audio in
and powers the MP3 player.
The connector provided is of the following MIL-38999 Type III designation:
MIL-38999/24WB35S
This connector provides thirteen #22 socket contacts. The following figure shows the
pinout for this connector:
Pin 1: +5.2VDC Out
Pin 2: Signal +
Pin 3: Signal -
Pin 4: DC ground
Pin 5: Drain wire
Pins 6 to 13: Not used
Note: Input signal level is not to exceed 280mV RMS.

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Microphone Input
The microphone input connector is provided for connection with ATC’s handheld
microphone.
The connector provided is of the following MIL-38999 Type III designation:
MIL-38999/24WB98S
This connector provides six #20 socket contacts. The following figure shows the pinout
for this connector:
Pin A: Shield
Pin B: Signal -
Pin C: Signal +
Pins D thru F: Not used
Rear Panel Controls and Indicators
Main power switch
Resettable breaker
Sound Projection
switch
Volume control
Voice boost switch
LED status indicators

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Main Power Switch
This is the main power on/off switch for the unit. This is a double-pole single throw
(DPST) switch that is wired in parallel for redundancy.
Resettable Breaker
The resettable breaker provides over-current protection on the input in the event of an
internal short or system failure.
Sound Projection Switch
The sound projection switch allows the user to alter the directivity or “beam width” of
the unit’s acoustic output between wide and narrow settings. The wide setting can be
used for broadcasting messages in open areas where reflections from nearby buildings
or other objects will not interfere with the intelligibility of the broadcasted message.
The narrow setting can be used in urban environments or other settings where nearby
structures can cause echoes and reflections that can degrade the intelligibility of the
broadcasted message.
The graphic on the switch label represents wide and narrow “cones”
of projected sound.
Volume Control
The volume control knob works in the same way a traditional volume knob on a stereo
system works. It controls the gain of the system and provides a continuous range of
output levels.
WARNING: The LRAD-500X is capable of producing extremely high sound pressure
levels. Always be sure to have the volume control at its minimum setting when
powering on the unit, and raise the volume to maximum only after taking appropriate
precautions for yourself and nearby personnel.
Operators must wear hearing protection when raising the volume level of the unit
past the red zone marked on the volume control. Prolonged exposure to excessive
sound pressure levels can cause hearing damage.

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Voice Boost Switch
The voice boost switch allows the user to boost the level of spoken voice
communications for greater range and intelligibility over distance. When voice boost is
on, music or other non-voice based broadcasts will also be louder, but they will not
sound natural. In situations where excessive reflections cause unnecessary feed back
through the handheld microphone, setting voice boost to the “off” position will alleviate
feedback problems.
LED Status Indicators
The three indicator LEDs indicate Power, Clipping, and Fault status to the operator.
Power: LED illuminates in green when main power switch is on and
amplifiers are powered up.
Clip: LED illuminates in yellow when input signal is too high. Excessive
input signal level will cause distortion on the output and may damage
the amplifier if applied continuously.
Fault: LED illuminates in red when amplifiers have reported a general fault (over
temperature, over current, or other) and have shut down or failed. Recycling the power
may clear some types of faults.
System Setup
The LRAD-500X can be quickly and easily set up with the following steps:
1. Connect the input device(s).
The LRAD-500X ships with a handheld MP3 player device and a handheld microphone. These
input devices are optimized for use with the LRAD-500X, although alternate devices may be
connected as well.
These input devices include the connectors required to attach to the LRAD-500X. There are two
holding clips on the rear panel that allow for the microphone and MP3 player to be stored on
the rear of the unit for easy access.
2. Mount the unit.
The LRAD-500X unit alone can rest on a flat surface such as the roof of a vehicle with the feet
that are built into the base of the unit. Optionally, the unit can be installed in a yoke, tripod
mount, ship-rail mount, or Humvee mount, all of which are available from ATC. The LRAD-500X
includes three hardened structural mounting points that can be used to attach to other
mounting devices. The relevant dimensions and locations of these mounting points are given in
the following figure.

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Figure 2: LRAD-500X mounting point details.
If mounting the LRAD-500X on a tripod or other mount, ensure that the tripod is secure and
stable to prevent the unit from being accidentally knocked or blown over.
In order to achieve the maximum communications range with the LRAD-500X, position the unit
at head-height or higher.
Ensure that the unit is pointed away from nearby buildings or personnel.

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3. LRAD Safety Zones
Refer to the diagram on the left to
ensure nearby personnel are not
exposed to excessive sound pressure
levels.
WARNING: Be sure to clear
personnel from the area within 75
meters of the front of the unit prior to
activating high volume broadcasts.
The LRAD-500X is provided with
foam earplugs that provide the 20dB of
noise reduction required for operators
behind the unit and people in the 30
degree side-lobe areas shown in the
diagram.
4. Connect Power to the Unit
The LRAD-500X is provided with a 12’ power cord that mates with the input connector on the
LRAD and is un-terminated on the other end. Consult the wiring documentation specific to
your installation for instructions on how to terminate and protect the connection to the power
source. For turret-mounted applications, ATC recommends the use of breakaway connectors to
prevent damage due to entanglement with the power cables. These breakaway connectors are
included with the power cord supplied.
WARNING: Ensure the volume control is at the lowest setting before powering up the
unit.
The power supply to the LRAD-500X should be able to supply between 12 and 28VDC at 25 to
11 Amps.
Ensure that the power supply is switched off prior to making or breaking the power connection
to the LRAD-500X. When using a battery for power, the use of a battery switch is
recommended.
5. Power up and System Check
When power is connected, flip the main power switch to the on position.
Observe the indicator LEDs. The Power LED will illuminate green, and the Fault LED will flash
red momentarily while the amplifiers boot up and perform self-tests. When the amplifiers are
ready, the Fault LEDs should turn off, indicating that the unit is ready to operate.
6. MP3 Player
Not used Audio Out Aux in/USB

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Figure 3: MP3 Player Controls
The LRAD-500X is supplied with a case hardened MP3 player. This MP3 player allows operators
to utilize prerecorded and approved messages in the field. This device supports MP3, WMA
and WAV file formats and has 1 gigabyte of built in memory. Some operators have found it
useful to record a message in several different languages to meet their communication needs.
The MP3 player is preloaded with a number of warning and test messages that may be freely
used as needed or deleted if not needed.
The MP3 player output cord is connected to the back of the LRAD-500X through the MP3 INPUT
port. Power is provided to the MP3 player from the LRAD-500X.
Note: There are 2 audio input jacks on the LRAD-500X, one labeled MP3 INPUT and the other
labeled MIC INPUT. Neither input has priority over the other. If broadcasting a recorded
message through the MP3 INPUT port and the operator prefers to use the microphone, the
MP3 player should first be put into the STOP mode. Failure to do so will broadcast both the
MP3 message and the spoken message through the LRAD-500X at the same time.
Audio File Playback:
1. Stop inputs from other audio input devices.
2. Select the desired track with the Skip Forward or Skip Reverse buttons.
3. Press PLAY to play the message.
4. The message will play until the end of the file or STOP button is depressed.
5. To repeat the message in a continuous loop, depress the Repeat button on the MP3
player.
Using the Tone Generator:
Play/Pause
Stop
Skip Forward
Skip Reverse
Repeat
Brightness
Alarm tone generator

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WARNING: The Tone Generator produces the loudest output from the LRAD-500X.
Qualified personnel must ensure the area in front of the LRAD-500X is clear for 75 meters in
front of the device before activating the tone at high volume levels.
The MP3 Player has an Alarm Tone generator button located on the side. Press once for
activation; press again for deactivation. The tone generator produces intense, pulsating
warning tones.
ATC recommends using the tone in 2-5 second bursts for maximum effectiveness when hailing a
subject. The tone will override the recorded voice transmission.
Brightness Control:
The brightness button on the face of the MP3 player can be used to set the brightness of the
LCD backlight to compensate for ambient lighting conditions. The button cycles the LCD
backlight from off (no backlight) through three increasing levels of brightness.
Other MP3 Player Functions:
Please see the LRAD MP3 Player Operating Manual for other functions and features of the MP3
player.
Operation – Hailing and Warning
HEARING PROTECTION REQUIRED: Personnel operating the LRAD-500X shall, at a
minimum, wear single earplug style hearing protection. The LRAD-500X is capable of
acoustic sound pressure levels in excess of OSHA noise hazard levels. As with any high-
energy acoustic device, proper usage will minimize risk of hearing loss to the operator
and personnel in the immediate vicinity.
PROTECTION OF NEARBY PERSONNEL: Qualified LRAD-500X operators must
ensure the device is positioned, aimed and operated in a manner so as to avoid
exposing nearby personnel and bystanders to excessive sound pressure levels. The
following guidelines are to be used in conjunction with sound judgment:
•Never operate LRAD-500X at maximum power where personnel may be within
75 meters or where an acoustically reflective object, e.g. building, wall, or
bulkhead, is located such that the reflected distance to personnel is less than 75
meters.
•Never point LRAD-500X directly at personnel in the immediate vicinity of
operating position.
•Be advised that the output power of the warning tone is slightly higher than
voice levels.
Many factors must be considered when positioning the LRAD-500X for hailing and warning
operations. The LRAD-500X Operations Zones shown in Figure 3 must always be taken into
account to ensure that personnel are not exposed to excessive sound pressure levels.

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Factors to consider when placing the LRAD-500X include, but are not limited to, the
following:
•All long-range communication devices should have an unobstructed transmission path
to the anticipated areas in which it will be aimed. Even small mast antennas may reflect
some sound energy decreasing the effectiveness of the unit as well as increasing reflected
noise levels for the operator and others nearby.
•Placement should be chosen so as to minimize or avoid transmission over decks or
balconies where personnel may be located.
•Shipboard operations should place the LRAD-500X as close to the ship’s sides, bow, or
stern as possible.
•When choosing a placement area to maximize unobstructed transmission path(s),
proper care must be taken to ensure the LRAD-500X does not collide with any structures or
equipment nor encroach on personnel passageways when the unit is pivoted and
manipulated through its full range of motion.
The LRAD-500X can be accurately aimed at the vehicle or personnel the operator is attempting
to communicate with using one of the two attached visual sighting devices (see Figure 2). The
sites are located on the left and right sides of the LRAD-500X.
WARNING: Hearing Protection: The LRAD-500X sound projection is very
directional. Operators standing behind the unit hear only a small fraction of the sound energy
being transmitted. This can make the operator think the LRAD-500X is not producing the
required output. OPERATORS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO LISTEN TO THE OUTPUT FROM THE
FRONT OF THE DEVICE! HEARING DAMAGE MAY RESULT FROM SUCH ACTION.
Figure 4: Do not attempt to listen to the output side of the unit.
Care and Maintenance
The LRAD-500X is an all-weather hailing and warning device that requires minimal
maintenance. As with any equipment, proper care and maintenance will ensure a long and
useful life.
Clean LRAD-500X and inspect for wear or other damage daily. Ensure that all fastening
hardware is kept tight and all electrical connections are secure and damage-free. Fasteners or

LRAD 500X
17
other hardware or equipment that become loose may represent a serious hazard to personnel
as well as the LRAD-500X and nearby equipment.
Use non-flammable cleaning solutions with clean rags to wipe the exterior surfaces of the
LRAD-500X. The LRAD-500X Head Unit can be sprayed down with fresh water to remove salt
and dust buildup. The status LED window can be cleaned with soap and water. For corrosion
control in sea applications, apply anti-corrosion lubricant to the metal connectors on the LRAD
device.
Do not spray the LRAD-500X front grille with pressurized liquid or air. Do not spray or
otherwise introduce caustic solutions to the front grille. Doing so will increase the risk of
damaging the emitters as well as other electronics contained within the unit.
If the grille becomes obstructed with dust, dirt, dried mud, or sand, remove the grille and clean
it with soap and water. Turn the unit with the emitters facing down and wipe away any dust
and dirt that may have accumulated in the emitter cavities.
WARNING: Do not use compressed air to blow away dust from the emitter cavities, as
this may damage the emitters.
The grille on the head unit can be removed periodically by unfastening the screws around the
front bezel and cleaned using pressurized air and/or water. This operation will ensure
maximum output is maintained in the unit.
Spare parts are available from ATC and field repairs of most potential failures can be performed
as follows.
Troubleshooting and Repairs
Problem: Low output due to failed transducer.
Description: The failure of one or two transducers may not be noticeable to a listener. A
handheld dB meter can be held within two or three inches of each of the transducers, and while
playing a test tone at very low volume level, be used to find a faulty transducer.
To replace a transducer, perform the following steps.
1. Remove the front grille by removing the screws around the front bezel.
2. Remove the cap from the front of the driver bullet using a 7/64” Allen Wrench.
3. Disconnect the driver connection which is located inside the driver bullet.
4. With the drivers facing up, remove the four screws from the back of the driver using a
5/32” Allen Wrench, and lift the driver out of the unit.
5. Install replacement driver, reconnect driver cable, replace driver bullet cap and replace
front grille.
Total estimated repair time: 25 minutes.
Problem: Faulty amplifier – excessive noise, fault light, clipping light permanently
illuminated, insufficient output.

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Description: A faulty amplifier can develop various symptoms, which affect the sound output
level and clarity.
To replace a faulty amplifier, perform the following steps.
1. Ensure the LRAD-500X is powered down and all connectors are disconnected.
2. Remove the 13 screws around the back plate of the LRAD-500X:
3. Lift the electronics enclosure out of the case and disconnect the emitter cable.
4. Mount replacement electronics enclosure and reapply all connections.
Total estimated repair time: 15 minutes.
Note: Depot level repairs internal to the electronics enclosure are detailed in the
maintenance handbook.
Remove 13X screws

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Schematic Diagram
Consult the following schematic for further troubleshooting.

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20
Spare Parts/Support
The following spare parts are available from ATC for field or depot level repairs and
replacements.
LRAD-500X-SPARES
ATC Part No. Description
LRAD-500-MIC
Handheld Microphone
LRAD-MP3 Hardened MP3 Player Kit
101562-01
12 ft. Power Cord
LRAD-MP3-CBL-XLT
Extension Cable, MP3
LRAD-MIC-CBL-XLT Extension Cable, Microphone
104807-01
Operation Manual with CD
LRAD-CBL-CD CD Cable
LRAD-CBL-USB
USB Download Cable for MP3
LRAD-500X-REPAIR
ATC Part No.
Description
104165-01
Amplifier Module
104416-00 Acoustic Driver Unit
104584-00 Head Unit Grill Kit
103688-01 Power supply
104417-01 Input Power Connector
104418-01 MIC Input Connector
104418-00
MP3 Input Connector
104419-02
Speaker Out/Speaker In
Connector