Rockford Fosgate RFX-8115 User manual

rfx
am/fm CD Players
RFX-8115/8120/8130/8140
operation & installation
rfx

Dear Customer,
Congratulationsonyourpurchaseoftheworld'sfinestbrandofcaraudiosourceunits.
At Rockford Fosgate we are committed to musical reproduction at its best, and we are
pleasedyouchoseourproduct.Throughyearsofengineeringexpertise,handcraftsman-
ship and critical testing procedures, we have created a wide range of products that
reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate
product installed by an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer, as we provide specialized
training through Rockford Technical Training Institute (RTTI). Please read your
warranty and retain your receipt and original carton for possible future use.
To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order your Rockford
accessories,whichincludeeverythingfromT-shirtsandjacketstohatsandsunglasses.
To get a free brochure on Rockford Fosgate products and Rockford accessories, in the
U.S.call602-967-3565orFAX602-967-8132.Forallothercountries,call+001-602-
967-3565 or FAX [phone].
PRACTICE SAFE SOUND™
CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS OVER
100dBMAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS. HIGH
POWERED AUTOSOUND SYSTEMS MAY PRODUCE SOUND
PRESSURE LEVELS WELL OVER 130dB. USE COMMON SENSE
AND PRACTICE SAFE SOUND.
The serial number can be found on the outside of the box. Please record it in
the space provided below as your permanent record. This will serve as
verificationofyourfactorywarrantyandmaybecomeusefulinrecoveringyour
source unit if it is ever stolen.
Serial Number: ________________________________
Model Number:________________________________
If, after reading your manual, you still have questions regarding this product,
we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you need further
assistance, you can call us direct at 1-800-795-2385. Be sure to have your serial
number, model number and date of purchase available when you call.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ............................................................................................. 1
Accessory Pack ........................................................................................ 1
Precautions ..............................................................................................2
Features Matrix ........................................................................................4
Technical Design Features .......................................................................5
Source Unit Design Features ....................................................................9
IR Remote Design Features.....................................................................12
Installation Considerations ..................................................................... 13
Source Unit Mounting Locations ............................................................ 14
Wiring the System .................................................................................. 15
Installation ............................................................................................. 19
Basic Operation ..................................................................................... 22
Tuner Operation .................................................................................... 30
CD Player Operation.............................................................................. 37
External Audio Operation....................................................................... 49
IR Remote Operation ............................................................................. 51
Rockford Fosgate Accessories................................................................. 58
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................... 60
Specifications......................................................................................... 68
Warranty Information............................................................................. 70
G ETTING S TARTED
Welcome to Rockford Fosgate! This manual is designed to provide
information for the owner, salesperson and installer. For those of you
who want quick information on how to install this product, please turn
to the Installation Section of this manual or refer to the icons listed
below.OtherinformationcanbelocatedbyusingtheTableofContents.
We, at Rockford Fosgate, have worked very hard to make sure all the
information in this manual is current. But, as we are constantly finding
newways toimprove our product, this information is subjectto change
without notice.
Sections marked
INSTALLATION
include “slam dunk”
wiring connections
I
N
S
T
A
L
L
A
T
I
O
N
® ®
TROUBLE-S
H
O
O
T
I
N
G
Sections marked
TROUBLESHOOTING
include recommendations for curing
installation problems

INTRODUCTION
Rockford Fosgate optimized usable features in the RFX source units for
use in high performance car audio systems. The “world's best tuner,” a
high performance CD player, and controls pioneered by Rockford
Fosgate offer unmatched performance in the aftermarket world.
Thefollowingsections contain informationonthe features,installation,
andoperationforthe8115,8120,8130,and“competition”8140source
units. The Technical Design Features section explains the features
common to all four source units, as well as a chart listing features
dependent on each model.
– 1 –
ACCESSORY PACK
RFX-8115
Installation & Operation Manual
(1) Mounting Sleeve
(1) Backstrap
(1) Left Chassis Release Key
(1) Right Chassis Release Key
(5) Mounting Screws
(m5 x 0.88mm x 4mm)
(1) Faceplate Case
(1) 8115 Power Harness (22-pin)
(1) 2-Channel RCA Harness (10-pin)
RFX-8120
Installation & Operation Manual
(1) Mounting Sleeve
(1) Backstrap
(1) Left Chassis Release Key
(1) Right Chassis Release Key
(5) Mounting Screws
(m5 x 0.88mm x 4mm)
(1) Faceplate Case
(1) Power Harness (22-pin)
(1) 4-Channel RCA Harness (10-pin)
RFX-8130
Installation & Operation Manual
(1) Mounting Sleeve
(1) Backstrap
(1) Left Chassis Release Key
(1) Right Chassis Release Key
(5) Mounting Screws
(m5 x 0.88mm x 4mm)
(1) Faceplate Case
(1) Power Harness (22-pin)
(1) 5-Channel RCA Harness (10-pin)
(1) IR Remote Control
RFX-8140
Installation & Operation Manual
(1) Mounting Sleeve
(1) Backstrap
(1) Left Chassis Release Key
(1) Right Chassis Release Key
(5) Mounting Screws
(m5 x 0.88mm x 4mm)
(1) Faceplate Case
(1) 8140 Power Harness (22-pin)
(1) 2-Channel RCA Harness (10-pin)
(1) 2-Channel BAL Harness (10-pin)
(1) IR Remote Control

PRECAUTIONS
Operating Temperature
Be sure the temperature inside the vehicle is
between–10°Cand+60°C(+14°Fand+140°F).
DO NOT playa discif thetemperature ishigher
or lower than the operating range.
Moisture Condensation
The CD playback may waver due to condensa-
tion. If this occurs, remove the disc from the
source unit and wait for approximately an hour
for the moisture to evaporate.
Environment Exposure
DONOTexposetheSourceUnitoroptionalCD
Changer to any of the following: direct sun and
heat, high humidity, excessive dust, excessive
vibration and rain or water.
Handling the Detachable Faceplate
DONOTdroporcauseshocktothefaceplateas
seriousdamagemayoccur.Protectthefaceplate
by storing it in the supplied carrying case.
Avoid Mechanical Malfunction
DO NOT grab a disc while it is being automati-
callyloadedintothesourceunit.Doingthismay
cause serious damage to the source unit.
SOURCE UNIT & OPTIONAL
CD CHANGER
– 2 –
RFX-8103
®®
AUD SEL
6
RDMRPTSCAN PAUSED.SCN DIM
51
P.SC
NLOUDDSPL
CLOCK ILLUM
PWR
AUTO
VOL TUNE
23
COMPACT
DIGITALAUDIO
4
RFX-8103
®®
AUD SEL
6
RDMRPTSCAN PAUSED.SCN DIM
5
1
P.SC
NLOUDDSPL
CLOCK ILLUM
PWR
AUTO
VOL TUNE
23
COMPACT
DIGITALAUDIO
4
✯
✯
✯
RFX-8103
®®
AUD SEL
6
RDMRPTSCAN PAUSED.SCN DIM
51
P.SC
NLOUDDSPL
CLOCK ILLUM
PWR
AUTO
VOL TUNE
23
COMPACT
DIGITALAUDIO
4
+60°C
–10°C
RFX-8103
®®
AUD SEL
6
RDMRPTSCAN PAUSED.SCN DIM
51
P.SC
NLOUDDSPL
CLOCK ILLUM
PWR
AUTO
VOL TUNE
23
COMPACT
DIGITALAUDIO
4
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e

COMPACT DISCS
Disc Handling and Care
DO NOT touchthe playing side(opposite of label
side)of the disc.When handling thedisc, only the
outer edges or center hole of the disc should be
touched.DO NOT affix anysticker or labelon the
disc.DONOTapplyvinylrecordspray,anti-static
agent, acetone, or any other volatile chemicals to
the disc.
Damaged Disc
DONOTplayacracked,warpedordamageddisc.
Doing this may cause serious damage to the play-
back mechanism.
New Discs
TheCDplayerwillejectdiscsthathaveeitherbeen
inserted incorrectly or have irregular surfaces. If a
new disc is ejected after loading, feel around the
outeredgeoftheCDanditscenterhole.Anysmall
burrs or irregularities could inhibit proper loading
of the disc. To remove the burrs, rub the inside
edge of the hole and outside edge of the disc with
an object such as a ball point pen.
– 3 –
IR REMOTE (8115/8120 OPTION)
1-6
+
–
✯
✯
✯
®
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
LIQUID SWORD INC.
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
•
v
i
c
i
o
u
s
s
o
u
n
d
s
o
f
t
h
e
j
u
n
g
l
e
1-6
+
–
®
Environment Exposure
DO NOT expose the IR Remote to any of the
following: direct sun and heat, high humidity and
rain or water.
Handling the IR Remote
DO NOT drop or cause shock to the IR Remote as
serious damage may occur.

FEATURE RFX-8115 RFX-8120 RFX-8130 RFX-8140
General
Detachable Faceplate XXXX
Any Button Wake-Up XXXX
SMART-On XXXX
Green/Amber Illumination X X X
Green Illumination X
Illumination Dimmer X X X
Clock XXXX
Display Recall XXXX
Default Display XXXX
Tuner
AM/FM Stereo (6AM/18FM Presets XXXX
Preset Scan XXXX
Auto Store XXXX
AM/FM Tune/Seek XXXX
AM/FM Scan X X
Mute* XXXX
World Wide Tuner XXXX
Power Antenna X X
CD Player
Next/Prevous Track XXXX
Fast Forward/Reverse XXXX
Repeat XXXX
Random XXXX
Pause XXXX
Scan XXXX
Insert CD & Power Up XXXX
CD Changer Controller
Next/Previous Track X X X
Fast Forward/Reverse X X X
Repeat X X X
Random Track X X X
Pause X X X
Track Scan X X X
Disc Scan X X X
Audio
Source Tone Memory X X X
Switchable Loudness XXXX
Cell Phone Mute XXXX
Internal Amp X X X
Preamp Output 2-Ch RCA 4-Ch RCA 5-Ch RCA 2-Ch RCA
or BAL
Adjustable Sub Level X
Preamp Output Voltage 2.4 Vrms 2.4 Vrms 2.4 Vrms 8.5 Vrms RCA
17 Vrms BAL
External Audio Input(s) 1 2
Signal Processor Loop X
IR Remote Compatible X X Supplied Supplied
Tuner Mode XXXX
CD Player Mode XXXX
CD Changer Mode XXXX
Volume Up/Dn XXXX
Track Seek Up/Dn XXXX
Tuner Preset Select XXXX
Any Button Wake-Up XXXX
Pulse XXXX
* Accessible through IR Remote
– 4 –
®

TUNER
◆ Patented Tuner
TheSourceUnitsutilize arefinedhighperformance tuner forprovid-
ing unmatched tuning range. The tuner uses a patented Digital
Automatic Alignment (a mini pre-programmed computer) to pre-
ciselytargetand“tunein”FMradiostations.Theaftermarketstandard
is done by mechanical alignment which relies on not-so-precise
tunable inductors to “get within the ballpark” of a radio station. The
tuner is also refined with Dual FM Conversion and Dual AM Up-
Convert schemes to create a tuner that is capable of receiving radio
signals better.
THE RESULT: Absolutely the “world's best tuner”
◆MIR Circuit
The MIR (Multipath Interference Rejection) Circuit improves audio
performance under difficult reception conditions. The tuner slowly
tapersfromstereotomonauralwhenexcessivestaticisproduceddue
to poor radio reception in fringe areas. This feature is virtually
undetectablebythelistenerduetoitssmoothtransitionfrommonau-
ralbacktostereo.TheMIRcircuitimprovesaudioqualitybyreducing
multipath effects in both weak and strong signal conditions.
THERESULT:Improvesaudioperformancewhenradioreceptionispoor
TECHNICAL DESIGN FEATURES
– 5 –
◆High Output Voltage/
Low Source Impedance
A high preamp output voltage allows a cleaner signal to be driven to
the amplifier. A low source impedance (50Ω) enables the preamp to
drive multiple amplifiers without signal loss. It is not enough to have
onlyahighvoltageoutput;totake fulladvantageoftheextravoltage,
a low source impedance is essential. These two features are an
important combination for a preamp that truly delivers a Punch!
THE RESULT: Resists noise and enables multiple amplifiers to be
driven without signal loss
PREAMP/AMPLIFIER

– 6 –
CD PLAYER
◆Dual 1 Bit D/A Converters with
8x Oversampling
The Digital to Analog (D/A) converter determines the sound quality
of the source unit. 8x oversampling ensures the D/A conversion
occurs at a frequency high enough so information from the digital
conversionis notaffected bynoise. Thisenables thesound qualityto
remain the same as it was in the recording studio.
THE RESULT: Maintains sound quality of CDs
◆Digital Servo Control w/Auto Focus
The Source Unit incorporates a Digital Servo Control to ensure
accurate disc tracking for optimum CD playback. The Auto Focus
feature actually adjusts the laser optics to manufacturing tolerances
of CDs. Imagine a CD player that thinks for itself? That's why the
faceplate says Rockford Fosgate!
THE RESULT: Adjusts to CD manufacturing tolerances for accurate
tracking
◆Hologram Laser w/multi-damping
The Rockford Fosgate CD Players feature high reliability and accu-
racy with the use of a Hologram Laser. The Hologram laser uses a
sophisticated one-piece assembly versus conventional discrete type
lasers that use several mechanical parts. In addition, the multi-
damping system for the CD mechanism acts like rubber shock
absorbers to prevent skipping under rough conditions.
DISCRETE LASER HOLOGRAM LASER
THE RESULT: High reliability and tracking
Concave Lens
LD
Half Mirror
Grating
Plate Mirror
Disc
Objective Lens
Collimator
Lens
Plate Mirror
Disc
Objective Lens
Holoram
Unit

◆Any Button Wake Up
TheAnyButtonWakeUpfeatureallowsthereceivertopower-upby
pressing any button on the faceplate or IR remote. If the receiver is
manuallypowereddownwhileignitionpowerison,thereceiverwill
“wakeup”whenanybuttononthefaceplateisdepressed.Thisallows
the user to easily turn on the source unit while simultaneously
demonstrating his/her street racing skills.
THE RESULT: Power-up the receiver without fumbling for the PWR
button
– 7 –
◆SMART On (Outputs A & B)
TheSMART On(SequentiallyManagedAccessoryRemoteTurn-On)
outputs supply sequential on/off auto power for external compo-
nents. After the radio is powered on, output “A” will immediately
supply turn-on voltage to its output. A half second later, output “B”
supplies turn-on voltage to its output. After the radio is powered
down, output “B” will immediately turn off, then a half second later,
output “A” will turn off. The SMART On circuitry eliminates turn on/
off transients for components with various power on/off cycles.
THE RESULT: Protects speakers and electronics from damaging
transients
CONTROLS/SECURITY
◆Detachable Faceplate
No need to haul around a five pound source unit wherever you go.
A Detachable Faceplate is a lot easier to remove and carry around
with you. Just press the faceplate release button, drop the faceplate
initscarryingcase,andputitinyourshirtpocket.Now, you'reready
toroll.TheDetachableFaceplateisagreatdeterrenttotheftandhelps
to ensure your CD player is safe …just make sure to remove it.
THE RESULT: Deters source unit theft

– 8 –
◆IR Remote Compatible
(Remote available separately for RFX-8115/8120)
The source unit can be controlled through the use of an IR Remote
Control (RFX-1110). The infrared receiver eye, located inside the
anti-theft faceplate, accepts infrared encoded data from the remote
control.ThisfeatureallowsvariousfunctionsoftheTuner,CDPlayer
and CD Changer to be conveniently operated which will not only
impress your friends but also your favorite car audio judge.
THE RESULT: Ability to operate functions via remote control
◆Pulse
The Pulse provides a momentary +12V to “Output C” of the
source unit. The Pulse is accessible through the “Diamond R”
button on the IR Remote Control (RFX-1110). This function enables
the user to switch on or off additional components connected to the
system.
THERESULT:Abilitytotriggerampracks,neonlights,etc.viaremote
control
◆Cell Phone Mute
The Cell Phone Mute feature automatically mutes the audio system
whenthein-carcellularphonerings.Asensorwireonthesourceunit
detects a signal from the cell phone ringer and triggers audio mute
function. No more missed calls from the office or “significant other”
when cranking up your audio system to escape the pressures of life.
THE RESULT: Nevermissaphone callwhilelisteningtoyour system
◆Source Tone Memory (RFX-8120/8130/8140)
The Source Tone Memory function memorizes the bass and treble
setting between AM, FM, CD, CD Changer and External Audio
modes. This enables the user to customize or compensate for the
difference in sound between multiple source modes.
THE RESULT: Separate Bass and Treble memory for different modes
®
®

RFX-8103
®®
AUD SEL
6
RDMRPTSCAN PAUSED.SCN DIM
43 521
P.SC
NLOUDDSPL
CLOCK ILLUM
PWR
AUTO
VOL TUNE
COMPACT
DIGITAL AUDIO
SOURCE UNIT DESIGN FEATURES
3 1
5 6 2
15
25
8
7
11
10
14 16
17
23
9
21
20 22
18
12 2413 19
4
1. LC Display – The positive image LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
containsvisualindicatorsfortheoperationofTuner,CDPlayer,CD
Changer* and IR Remote.
2. Release Button – Pressing the Release button will detach the
faceplate from the main housing for theft prevention.
3. PWR Button – The PWR (power) button turns power on and off for
the source unit.
4. AUD Button – The AUD (audio adjustment) button cycles through
Bass, Treble, Fade*, Balance, Sub*, and Volume controls.
5. VOL +/– Rocker – The VOL +/– (volume up/down) rocker adjusts
theaudioleveloftheBass,Treble,Fade*,Balance,Sub*,andVolume.
6. TUNE ^vRocker – The TUNE ^v(tune up/down) rocker selects
radio frequencies when in tuner mode and selects CD tracks when
in CD mode.
7. CLOCKButton–TheCLOCKbuttoncontrolsthefunctionsofthe12
hour time-of-day clock.
8. DSPL Button – The DSPL (display) button allows the LCD to toggle
between functions of the Clock, Tuner, CD Player or CD Changer.
9. *DIM Button – Pressing the DIM (dimmer) button (in conjunction
with another function explained in Operations secion) will adjust
the intensity of the backlighting display.
10. *ILLUM Button – The ILLUM (illumination) button allows the
display to toggle between amber and green.
* Feature available on select models.
– 9 –

11. LOUD Button – The LOUD (loudness) button enables the bass
response to be boosted at low listening levels.
12. IR Eye – The IR (infrared receiver) Eye accepts infrared encoded
data from the IR Remote Control. (IR Remote Control is available
separately for the RFX-8115/8120.)
13. Sine Wave Button – The SINE WAVE (tuner) button switches the
source unit to Tuner (AM/FM) Mode.
14. 1-2-3-4-5-6 Buttons – The 1-2-3-4-5-6 (channel preset) buttons
selectradiofrequenciesstoredinpresets#1through#6ofthetuner.
15. SELButton–TheSEL(select)buttoncyclesthroughSeek,Tuneand
Scan functions of the Tuner (8115/8120) or selects the external
Audio Inputs (8130/8140).
16. AUTO Button –The AUTO (auto store)button allows anew group
of tuner stations to be temporarily programmed in memory for
traveling purposes.
17. P.SCN Button – The P.SCN (preset scan) button will scan and play
each preset tuner frequency for approximately 5 seconds each.
18. CD Player Button – The CD PLAYER (single disc) button switches
thereceivertoCDplayermodeifadischasbeenpreviouslyloaded
into the housing.
19. CD Eject Button – Pressing the EJECT button will eject the CD and
re-initialize Tuner Mode.
20. SCAN Button –PressingtheSCAN buttonwill cycle andplay each
track in the CD Player for 10 seconds.
21. RPT Button – Pressing the RPT (repeat play) button will replay the
currenttrackwheninCDPlayermodeandcurrenttrack/discwhen
in CD Changer* mode.
22. RDM Button – Pressing the RDM (random play) button will
randomly select and play tracks when in CD player mode and
randomly select discs/tracks when in CD Changer* mode.
23. Pause Button – Pressing the Pause button will pause the current
playing CD track and reduce the volume to minimum.
24. *CDXButton –TheCDX(stackofdiscs)buttonselectsoperationof
an optional Rockford Fosgate CD Changer.
25. *D.SCN Button – Pressing the D.SCN button (disc scan) will play
the first track of each CD in the CD Changer for 10 seconds, after
which the first CD will begin playing.
* Feature available on select models.
– 10 –

22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12
1110987654321
108642
97531
2826 27 29
26. 10PinConnector –The10PinConnector(pre-ampoutput)isused
fortheconnectionofexternalamplifiers.(ExternalAudiofor8140)
27. Antenna Connector – The Antenna Connector is a pigtail socket
used for connection of a standard male JASCO coaxial connector
for RF (radio frequency) input.
28. *13 Pin Din Connector – The 13 Pin Din Connector (CDX cable)
provides an easy connection for an optional Rockford Fosgate CD
Changer or External Audio Input*.
29. 22 Pin Connector – The 22 Pin Connector (power harness) is used
for battery, power, speaker*, accessory wire, and processor* con-
nections.
* Feature available on select models.
– 11 –

1. IR Remote Control – The IR Remote Control transmits infrared
encoded data to the receiver eye. The IR Remote has a range of 15
feet and is capable of transmitting through tinted auto glass.
2. Volume +/– Rocker – The VOLUME +/– (volume up/down) rocker
adjusts the audio level.
3. Tune^vRocker–TheTUNE^v(tuneup/down)rockerselectsradio
frequency bands when in tuner mode and selects CD tracks when
in CD player mode.
4. Sine Wave Button – The SINE WAVE (tuner) button switches the
source unit to Tuner (AM/FM) Mode.
5. 1-6 Button – The 1-6 (channel preset) button selects radio frequen-
cies stored in presets #1 through #6 of the tuner.
6. CDX Button – The CDX (stack of discs) buttonselects the operation
of an optional Rockford Fosgate CD Changer.
7. CD Player Button – The CD PLAYER (single disc) button switches
the source unit to CD player mode if a disc has been previously
loaded into the housing.
8. II Button – Pressing the II (pause) button will pause the current
playingCDtrackinCDmodeormutetheradiowhenintunermode.
9. “DiamondR”Button–Pressingthe“DIAMONDR”buttonprovides
a momentary +12V to “Output C” of the source unit.
10. Battery Housing – The Battery Housing holds batteries for the
remote control power source.
IR REMOTE DESIGN FEATURES(RFX-8115/8120option)
1-6
+
–
®
1
VOL TUNE
23
4
58
9
6
7
10
– 12 –

INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
ThefollowingisalistoftoolsyouwillneedforinstallingyourSource
Unit:
Volt/Ohm Meter #2 Phillips screwdriver
Wire strippers Battery post wrench
Wire crimpers Soldering iron
Wire cutters Solder
1/8" diameter heatshrink tubing Heat gun
This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for
installingyournewSourceUnit.Pre-planningyoursystemlayoutand
best wiring routes will save installation time. When deciding on the
layoutofyournewsystem,besurethateachcomponentwillbeeasily
accessible for making adjustments.
Beforebeginninganyinstallation,besuretofollowthesesimplerules:
1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before
attempting to install the Source Unit.
2. For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.
3. For easier assembly, we suggest you run all wires prior to
mounting your Source Unit in place.
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any
high current wires.
5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to
minimize signal or power loss.
6. Thinkbeforeyoudrill! Becarefulnottocutordrillintogastanks,
fuel lines, brake or hydraulic lines, vacuum lines or electrical
wiring when working on any vehicle.
7. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires
inside the vehicle provides the best protection.
8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or
plastic grommets to protect any wires routed through metal,
especially the firewall.
9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage
withproperfusing. Installtheappropriatefuseholderandfuseon
the+12Vpowerwirewithin18”(45.7cm)ofthebatteryterminal.
10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle, scrape all paint
from the metal to ensure a good, clean ground connection.
Groundingconnectionsshouldbeasshortaspossibleandalways
beconnectedtometalthatisweldedtothemainbody,orchassis,
of the vehicle.
– 13 –

SOURCE UNIT MOUNTING LOCATIONS
The mounting position of your source unit will have a great effect on
the performance of your CD Player. The source unit can be installed
in a wide range of operating locations. However, care should be
taken to ensure optimum performance.
Engine Compartment
Mounting the source unit in the engine compartment will void your
warranty. The only thing that should be mounted in the engine
compartment is that big metal thing that makes the vehicle go fast.
Instrument Panel
Mountingthesourceunit intheinstrument panel provides optimum
access. The source unit should be securely mounted using the
“Standard Mount” or “ISO Mount” method to ensure optimum CD
Player performance.
Center Console
Mounting the source unit in the center console provides optimum
access. Be sure the installation does not interfere with the operation
of the gear shift or parking brake. The source unit should have a
mounting angle within ±20°from horizontal.
Glove Box
Mounting the source unit in the glove box is adequate, but does not
provide easy access. Glove box mounting should only be done if
“InstrumentPanel” or ”Center Console,” mounting is not acceptable
(i.e., maintaining integrity of older vehicles with metal dashboards.)
The source unit should be mounted within ±20°from horizontal.
Under Dash
Mounting the source unit under the dash is adequate, but does not
provide easy access. Under dash mounting should only be done if
“Instrument Panel,” ”Center Console” or ”Glove Box” mounting is
not acceptable. Mount the source unit off to the side of the driver's
area to reduce interference with the parking brake, gear shift, or
operating pedals. The source unit should be mounted within ±20°
from horizontal.
– 14 –

WIRING THE SYSTEM
NOTICE: If you do not feel comfortable with wiring your new
source unit, please see your local Authorized Rockford Fosgate
Dealer for assistance.
•For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
beginning the installation.
1. Installthe22-Pin/PowerHarnessbyconnectingthecorrespond-
ing wires to the electrical and audio system. Solder and heat
shrinkallconnectionsforareliableinstallation.Foreachconnec-
tion,cuta1"pieceofheatshrinktubingandslideoveroneofthe
wires. Strip each wire 3/8" then twist together and solder. Slide
the tubing over the connection and shrink the tubing with a hot
air gun until no bare wire is exposed.
The BLACK Wire (Chassis Ground) supplies power ground for
thesourceunit.Preparethechassisgroundbyscrapinganypaint
from the metal surface and thoroughly clean the area of all dirt
andgrease. Stripthe end of the wire and attacha ringconnector.
Fasten the wire to the chassis using a non-anodized screw and
star washer.
The RED Wire (Ignition) allows the source unit to turn on only
when the ignition key is in the “accessory” or “run” position.
Connect the RED wire to a switched 12 volt positive source . The
switched signal is usually taken from the ACC (accessory) posi-
tionoftheignition. Ifthevehicledoes not haveanACC position,
connectthewiretotheswitchedONpositionoftheignition.The
current consumption through this wire is negligible.
TheYELLOW Wire (Battery) is the main power wire and retains
memory for user-programmed functions. Connect the Yellow
wire to a constant 12 volt positive source . The source should
alwayshave+12V,evenwhentheignitionisoffandthecarisnot
running.
TheLT.BLUEWire(Turn-On“A”)istheprimaryaccessoryturn-
on wire which provides immediate turn-on and .5 sec delayed
turn-off. Connect the Lt. Blue wire to the “Remote Turn-On”
leads of any external equalizers or crossovers which cause on/
off transients (pops or thumps) in the system. The maximum
current available from this lead is 2 Amps.
– 15 –

The BLUE/WHITE (Turn-On “B”) is the secondary accessory
turn-on wire which provides a .5 sec delayed turn-on and
immediate turn-off. Connect the Blue/White wire to the “Re-
mote Turn-On” leads of the amplifiers. The maximum current
available from this lead is 300mA.
The BLUE/RED Wire (Turn-On “C”) is the pulsed 500ms
output accessible through the “Diamond R” button on the IR
Remote. Connect the Blue/Red wire to a latching relay or
circuit which will be used to turn on and off accessories such
asneonlights,ampracks,etc.Themaximumcurrentavailable
from this lead is 300mA.
The BROWN Wire (Audio Mute) mutes the audio for cellular
phone use. Most cellular phones provide an output which is
usedtobeep-beepthevehicle'shornormutetheaudiosystem.
Connect the Brown wire to the cellular phone's “–” output. If
thecellularphoneisa“+”triggeroutput,usearelayto“chassis
ground” the Brown wire.
*The GREEN/WHITE Wire (External Audio Control) triggers
theselectionoftheExternalAudioInput(ExternalAudioInput
#2 for 8140). Connect the Green/White wire to a relay or
switch that will provide a constant “chassis ground” when
selected.TheExternal audio Inputwillcontinue tooverrideall
other functions (Tuner, CD, CD Changer) for the duration that
the Green/White wire is connected to “chassis ground.”
NOTE:SincetheExternalAudioInputandtheCDChangeruse
the same 13-pin DIN connector, only one component can be
supported at a time.
*The ORANGE Wire (Dimmer) is used for the source unit's
illuminationdimmer.ConnecttheOrangewiretothe“parking
light” or a switched 12 volt positive source. The current
consumptionthroughthiswireisnegligible.Refertothe“Basic
Operation” section of this manual for further information.
* Feature available on select models.
– 16 –

*The ORANGE/WHITE Wire (External Dimmer) allows the
source unit to control the illumination level of compatible
Rockford Fosgate components. Connect the Orange/White
wire to the dimmer input (typically orange wire) of the addi-
tional Rockford Fosgate component.
CAUTION! The Orange/White wire uses Pulse Width Modu-
lation(notrheostat design) to control thelevel of illumination
for RF components only.
*The BLUE Wire (Power Antenna) is used to control only fully
automatic antennas. Since the antenna is specially controlled
throughoutthedifferentoperatingconditionsofthesourceunit,
it is recommended to use the Blue wire from the source unit
instead of the factory power antenna control wire. If this is
desired, disconnect the “+” control lead from the power an-
tenna and heatshrink it to prevent it from shorting out. Then
connect the Blue wire to the “+” control lead of the power
antenna.
*The Signal Processor Loop is used to insert a signal processor
before the volume control on the source unit. The GREEN
marked RCAs are the SPL input – the output of the signal
processor should connect to these inputs. The GRAY marked
RCAs are the SPL output – the input of the signal processor
should connect to these outputs.
2. *ConnecttheSpeakerWires(ifexternalamplifiersarenotused)
to the corresponding speaker leads by soldering and heat
shrinking all connections for a reliable installation. If only one
pair of speakers is utilized in the system, use only the FRONT
speakerleadsandheatshrinktheunusedREARleadstoprevent
from shorting out. Be sure to maintain speaker polarity. DO
NOT chassis ground any speaker leads as unstable operation
may result.
3. Take a break! Youdeserve a nice cold one afterwiring that 22-
pin harness.
* Feature available on select models.
– 17 –