Rockford Fosgate PunchX User manual

® ®
car audio
fanatics
for
punch
2/3- Way
Electronic Crossover
®
®

Dear Customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of the world's finest brand of car audio signal
processors. At Rockford Fosgate we are committed to musical reproduction at its best,
andwearepleasedyouchoseourproduct.Throughyearsofengineeringexpertise,hand
craftsmanshipandcriticaltestingprocedures,wehavecreatedawiderangeofproducts
that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate
productinstalled byan AuthorizedRockford FosgateDealer, aswe providespecialized
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].
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
equipment 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 1-800-669-9899. Be sure to have your serial
number, model number and date of purchase available when you call.
PRACTICE SAFE SOUND™
CONTINUOUSEXPOSURETOSOUNDPRESSURELEVELSOVER100dBMAY
CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS. HIGH POWERED AUTO SOUND
SYSTEMSMAYPRODUCESOUNDPRESSURELEVELSWELLOVER130dB.
USE COMMON SENSE AND PRACTICE SAFE SOUND.

T ABLE OF C ONTENTS
Introduction...............................................................................................1
Accessory Pack .........................................................................................1
Design Features .........................................................................................1
Installation Considerations ..........................................................................3
Mounting Location .....................................................................................4
Wiring the System......................................................................................4
Punch X Installation ...................................................................................6
Punch X Operation .....................................................................................8
Troubleshooting.......................................................................................11
Specifications ..........................................................................................13
Warranty Information ...............................................................................14
International Information...........................................................................16
Sections marked
TROUBLESHOOTING
include recommendations for
curing
installation problems
Sections marked
INSTALLATION
include “slam dunk”
wiring connections
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Sections marked
ADVANCED OPERATION
include in-depth
technical information
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Welcometo RockfordFosgate! Thismanual is designedto provideinformation
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. Other information can
be located by using the Table of Contents. We, at Rockford Fosgate, have
workedveryhardtomakesurealltheinformationinthismanualiscurrent.But,
asweareconstantlyfindingnewwaystoimproveourproduct,thisinformation
is subject to change without notice.
GETTING STARTED

D ESIGN F EATURES
1. RCA Input Jacks – The industry standard RCA jacks provide easy
connectionsforsignallevelinput.Theyaregold-platedtoresistthesignal
degradation caused by corrosion.
2. RCA Output Jacks – The RCA output jacks are used to connect the
outputs of the crossover to the inputs of the amplifier. They are gold-
plated to resist the signal degradation caused by corrosion.
3. Variable Crossover Controls – The variable crossover controls allow
each filter to be easily adjusted and “dialed in” to the desired crossover
frequency.
– 1 –
I NTRODUCTION
The Punch X is a 2/3-way electronic crossover designed to filter sound into
frequency ranges the way a prism filters light into colors. The Punch X has
a total of 3 stereo inputs and 3 stereo outputs and uses gold-plated RCA
connectorsfor reliablesignal transfer. Theunique SignalSwitching Network
configures the inputs to accept 1, 2, or 3 pairs of RCAs. Outputs A & B are
dedicated High-Pass filters with continuously adjustable crossover points
ranging from 80Hz to 460Hz. Output C is a dedicated Low-Pass filter with
acontinuouslyadjustablecrossoverpointrangingfrom50Hzto210Hz.The
PunchXelectroniccrossoveriseasytouseinanysystemandworksperfectly
for common front/rear systems using a dedicated subwoofer.
A CCESSORY P ACK
Installation and Operation Manual
(4) Phillips Mounting Screws
(1) Removable Power Connector

– 2 –
4. Signal Switching Network – The configuration of these switches deter-
mines the number of inputs needed to operate the crossover. They can be
configured to accept 1, 2, or 3 pairs of inputs.
5. LED Power Indicator – The LED gives a visual indication of the status of
the crossover, lighting when the unit is turned on.
6. Power Connector – The power connector provides a convenient connec-
tion for ground, power and remote. The connector uses “screw lock”
terminals to secure the power wires and is removable for quick discon-
nects.
7. B+Fuse –TheinternalB+fuseprotectsthepowersupplyandbatteryfrom
short circuits and power failures.
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
3
2
65
4
1
7
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1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network

– 3 –
I NSTALLATION C ONSIDERATIONS
Thissectionfocusesonsomeofthevehicleconsiderationsforinstallingyournew
Punch X. Pre-planning your system layout and best wiring routes will save
installation time. When deciding how to lay out your new system, be sure that
each component will be easily accessible for making adjustments.
Before beginning any installation, be sure to follow these simple rules:
1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before attempting
to install the Punch X.
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
Punch X in place.
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high current
wires.
5. Usehighqualityconnectorsforareliableinstallationandtominimizesignal
or power loss.
6. Thinkbeforeyoudrill! Becarefulnottocutordrillintogastanks,fuellines,
brakeor hydrauliclines,vacuum linesor electrical wiringwhen working on
any vehicle.
7. Neverrunwiresunderneaththevehicle. Runningthewiresinsidethevehicle
provides the best protection.
8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or plastic
grommetsto protect anywires routed throughmetal, especially thefirewall.
9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage with proper
fusing. Install the appropriate fuseholder and fuse on the +12V power wire
within 18” (45.7 cm) of the battery terminal.
10. Whengroundingtothechassisofthevehicle,scrapeallpaintfromthemetal
toensureagood,cleangroundconnection.Groundingconnectionsshould
be as short as possible and always be connected to metal that is welded to
the main body, or chassis, of the vehicle.
The following is a list of tools you will need for installing the Punch X.
Red power wire Wire strippers
Blue remote turn-on wire Wire cutters
Black grounding wire Voltmeter
Electric hand drill w/assorted bits Jeweler's slotted screwdriver
Battery post wrench

M OUNTING L OCATION
The mounting location for the Punch X should allow easy access to the controls
formakingnecessaryadjustments.ThePunchXwillmostlikelybeadjustedonly
atthe time ofinstallation and willnot need furtheradjustment unless changesto
the audio system are performed. To ensure optimum performance, care should
be taken when mounting the crossover in the following locations:
Engine Compartment
Mounting the Punch X 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.
Passenger Compartment Mounting
Mounting the crossover in the passenger compartment will provide easy access
for making adjustments by ear. Select an area which is free from excessive dirt
ordust.Ifmountingundertheseat,besurethePunchXwillavoidmisadjustment
from driver or passenger seat movement.
Trunk Mounting
Selectanareawhichwillavoidpossibledamageormisadjustmentfromloading
andunloadingitemssuchas groceries, golf clubsandpackagesfromthetrunk.
– 4 –
W IRING THE S YSTEM
For safety, disconnect the negative lead from the car battery prior to beginning
the installation.
1. Wire the Power Connector
The B+ lead should be connected to a source of non-switched 12 volts DC.
Preparealengthofcablefromtheconstant+12Vbystripping3/8"ofinsulation
fromtheendofthewire.InsertthebaredwireintotheB+ terminal of the power
connector and fasten the screw.
NOTE: The B+ lead of the audio system MUST be fused 18" or less from
the vehicle's battery. Install a fuseholder, along with the necessary fuse,
under the hood. Connections should be water tight.
The REM lead should be connected to the remote turn-on or power antenna
output from the source unit. Prepare a length of cable from the source of
switchedvoltagebystripping3/8"ofinsulationfromtheendofthewire.Insert
the bared wire into the REM terminal of the power connector and fasten the
screw. Total current consumption through this lead is negligible.

The GND lead should be connected to the chassis ground of the vehicle.
Preparealengthofcable(approximately12"long)tobeusedfortheground
lead by stripping 3/8" of insulation from each end. Insert one end of bared
wire into the GND terminal of the power connector and fasten the screw.
Preparethechassisgroundbyscrapinganypaintfromthemetalsurfaceand
thoroughly clean the area of all dirt and grease. Attach a ring connector to
the other end of the wire. Fasten the cable to the chassis using a non-
anodized screw and star washer.
2. Connect the Source Inputs
Determinethenumberofoutputsyouwillusefromthesourceunit/equalizer.
ConfiguretheSignalSwitchingNetworkaccordingly(refertopage6formore
information) and connect the RCA cables to the inputs of the Punch X
crossover.
3. Connect the Outputs to the Amplifiers
Connect the appropriate outputs from the Punch X to the corresponding
inputsontheamplifiers.BesuretheHigh-Passchannelsconnecttothehigh
frequency amplifiers and the Low-Pass channel connects to the low
frequency amplifier.
4. Adjust the Crossover Points
DO NOT TURN THE SYSTEM ON! Before turning the system on, check the
setting of each crossover point and make any final adjustments. This will
prevent sending potentially damaging frequencies to the speakers.
– 5 –

– 6 –
I NSTALLATION
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Power Connections
Configuration #1
The Signal Switching Network determines the number of inputs needed to operate
the crossover. The orientation of all three switches configures the distribution
pattern. Depending on your system requirements, the crossover can be config-
ured to accept 1, 2, or 3 pairs of inputs.
Signal Switching Network
• 1 pair of RCAs will drive the entire system
Less than 18"
–+
Connect to B+ of
battery with a 1/2
amp fuse.
Connect to chassis
ground of vehicle.
Connect to remote
turn-on lead of
source unit.
GND B+ REM
A Input =>A, B, C Output
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
®
AA
A
A
1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network

Signal Switching Network
Configuration #3
– 7 –
Signal Switching Network
Configuration #2
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• Great for front/rear fading systems with constant subwoofer
• User has complete control over system
• Perfect for front/rear fading systems with adjustable subwoofer
A Input => A Output
B Input => B Output
A/B Summed => C Output
A Input => A Output
B Input => B Output
C Input => C Output
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
A A
B
A/B
B
®
1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
A A
B
C
B
C
®
1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network

– 8 –
O PERATION
Channels A & B Crossover Frequencies
Thevariable crossovercontrols alloweach filter tobe easilyadjusted and “dialed in”
to the desired crossover frequency. The frequency the knob is turned to is called the
“cutoff frequency.” This cutoff frequency occurs at –3dB and will cause a reduction
in power that the speaker “sees” at a rate of 12dB per octave. Channels A & B are
dedicatedHigh-Passfiltersandwillonlyallowfrequenciesabovethecrossoverpoint
to pass.
• Graph illustrates response curves with knob set to each printed crossover frequency
• Channel A & B crossover points are continuously adjustable between 80Hz to 460Hz
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
Ap
+3
+2
+1
0
–1
–2
–3
–4
–5
–6
–7
–8
–9
–10
–11
–12 50 100 200 500 1k 2k

– 9 –
• Graph illustrates response curves with knob set to each printed crossover frequency
• Channel C crossover point is continuously adjustable between 50Hz to 210Hz
Channels C Crossover Frequency
Channel C is a dedicated Low-Pass filter and will only allow frequencies below the
crossover point to pass.
Ap
+3
+2
+1
0
–1
–2
–3
–4
–5
–6
–7
–8
–9
–10
–11
–12 50 100 200 500 1k 2k
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz

– 10 –
Configuring a 24dB/octave High-Pass Filter
Configuring a 12dB/octave Bandpass Filter
• Configure Signal Switching Network for 3 In • 3 Out
• Loop Channel B output into Channel C input
• Configure Signal Switching Network for 3 In • 3 Out
• Loop Channel A output into Channel B input
•CAUTION! High-Pass A & B controls should be set to the same frequency
A Input => A Output
B Input => C Input => B/C Output
A Input => B Input => A/B Output
C Input => C Output
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
A A
B
B/C
B
C
®
High-Pass
Control Bandpass Controls
12dB High-Pass
12dB Bandpass
1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network
LEDREM B+ GND
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
L
R
Input
A
L
R
Input
B
L
R
Input
C
L
R
Output
A
High-
Pass
High-
Pass
Low-
Pass
L
R
Output
B
L
R
Output
C
110 130
90
85 80
180
260
380
460
65 80
55
50
110
145
190
210
Hz Hz Hz
High-Pass
AHigh-Pass BLow-Pass C
A A
A/B
C
B
C
®
High-Pass Controls must be
set to same frequency Low-Pass
Control
24dB High-Pass
12dB Low-Pass
1 IN 3 OUT
A
B
C
A
B
C
A
C
A
B
C
B
2 IN 3 OUT
AA
B
C
B
3 IN 3 OUT
C
Signal Switching Network
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Turn-On Pop
Distorted or Low
Output
T ROUBLESHOOTING
Symptom Diagnosis Remedy
– 11 –
Punch X does not turn
on (Power LED is off) Check the alternator, battery,
fuse and wiring and repair as
necessary. If the voltage is
above15.5volts,havetheelec-
trical system inspected by an
authorized car service center.
Check the alternator, battery,
fuse, and wiring and repair as
necessary. If the voltage is
above15.5volts,havetheelec-
trical system inspected by an
authorized car service center.
Remove cover from Punch X
andreplacewith1/2Ampfuse.
Checkwiringandrepairasnec-
essary.
Check connections, substitute
withknownworkingsourceand
cables,andrepairorreplaceas
necessary.
Checksystemconfigurationand
readjustswitchesasnecessary.
Disconnect input signal to
PunchXandturncrossoveron
and off. If noise is eliminated,
connectREMleadofamplifiers
to remote turn-on wire with a
delay module.
Checksystemwithknownwork-
ing source and repair or re-
placeoriginalsourceasneeded.
Checksystemconfigurationand
readjustswitchesasnecessary.
Voltage applied to the REM
terminal of the Punch X is
not between 10 and 15.5
volts.
VoltagetotheB+terminalof
the Punch X is not between
10and15.5voltsorthereis
no voltage present.
Internal B+ fuse is blown
Punch X is not properly
grounded.
RCA Input from source unit
isnotconnectedornotfunc-
tioning properly.
Signal Switching Network
not configured properly.
Voltagespikefromoutputof
preceding component is
entering Punch X through
input signal.
Source unit output too low
orsourceunithasnooutput.
Signal Switching Network
not configured properly.
Punch X has no sound
(Power LED is on)
TROUBLE-S
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Symptom Diagnosis Remedy
Check connections and run the
RCA cables on a different route
away from sources of high cur-
rent.
Check connections and bypass
additional components (cross-
overs and preamps) between the
sourceunitandtheamplifier.Con-
nect one component at a time
using muting plugs (RCA signal
shorted to shield) at the input of
each added component to deter-
minetheculprit.Repairor replace
components as necessary.
Check ground connections and
connectamplifiers,signalproces-
sors, and other components to a
central location or try a different
grounding point on the chassis.
– 12 –
Engine Noise
• If noise persists, see your Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer
TROUBLE-S
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NoiseisradiatingintoRCA
signal cable.
Badcomponentinthesig-
nal chain.
Multiple grounds in the
audio system.

Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio >100dB (A-weighted)
Input Impedance 20kΩ
Input Sensitivity 8VRMS max.
(for 10V output)
Output Impedance 50Ω
Output Voltage 10VRMS max.
(A, B, & C)
CROSSOVER
Number of Channels 2 (stereo)
Number of Inputs 1, 2, or 3 pair
Number of Outputs 3 pair
Crossover Frequencies
(continuously adjustable)
Channel A 80Hz to 480Hz (High-Pass)
Channel B 80Hz to 480Hz (High-Pass)
Channel C 50Hz to 210Hz (Low-Pass)
Crossover Slope 12dB/octave Butterworth
GENERAL
Power Requirements +10.5V to +15.5V DC
Current Consumption <500mA
B+ Fuse Size (internal) 1/2A
Fuse Type AGC
Dimensions 15⁄8"H x 41⁄8"W x 61⁄4"L
(with mounting flaps) (4.12cm x 10.47cm x 15.87cm)
Dimensions 15⁄8"H x 41⁄8"W x 43⁄4"L
(without mounting flaps) (4.12cm x 10.47cm x 12.06cm)
Weight 1.3 lbs. (.589kg)
– 13 –
S PECIFICATIONS
Specifications are subject to change without notice.

– 14 –
L IMITED W ARRANTY I NFORMATION
Ship to: Speakers
Rockford Acoustic Design
(Receiving-speakers)
609 Myrtle N.W.
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
RA#:_________________
Ship to: Electronics
Rockford Corporation
Warranty Repair Department
2055 E. 5th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281
RA#:_________________
Rockford Corporation offers a limited warranty on Rockford Fosgate products on the following
terms:
•Length of Warranty
3 years on electronics 90 days on electronic B-stock (receipt required)
2 years on source units 30 days on speaker B-stock (receipt required)
1 year on speakers
•What is Covered
This warranty applies only to Rockford Fosgate products sold to consumers by Authorized
Rockford Fosgate Dealers in the United States of America or its possessions. Product
purchased by consumers from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer in another country
is covered only by that country’s Distributor and not by Rockford Corporation.
•Who is Covered
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of Rockford product purchased from an
Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer in the United States. In order to receive service, the
purchaser must provide Rockford with a copy of the receipt stating the customer name,
dealer name, product purchased and date of purchase.
•Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced
(with a product deemed to be equivalent) at Rockford's discretion.
•What is Not Covered
1. Damage caused by accident, abuse, improper operations, water, theft
2. Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of product
3. Service performed by anyone other than Rockford or an Authorized Rockford Fosgate
Service Center
4. Any product which has had the serial number defaced, altered, or removed
5. Subsequent damage to other components
6. Any product purchased outside the U.S.
7. Any product not purchased from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer
•Limit on Implied Warranties
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are
limitedin durationto theperiodoftheexpress warrantyset forthabove. Somestatesdonot
allowlimitations onthe lengthof animplied warranty,so thislimitation maynot apply.No
person is authorized to assume for Rockford Fosgate any other liability in connection with
the sale of the product.
•How to Obtain Service
Please call 1-800-669-9899 for Rockford Customer Service. You must obtain an RA#
(Return Authorization number) to return any product to Rockford Fosgate. You are
responsible for shipment of product to Rockford.

– 15 –
INTERNATIONAL
INFORMATION

1/98
MAN-1820-A
MADE IN THE USA
This product is designed, developed and assembled in the USA by a dedicated group of
American workers. The majority of the components used in the construction of this product
are produced by American companies. However, due to the global nature of their
manufacturing facilities and the loudspeaker parts industry in general, some parts may be
manufactured in other countries.
Rockford Fosgate
Rockford Corporation
546 South Rockford Drive
Tempe, Arizona 85281 U.S.A.
In U.S.A., [phone]
In Europe, Fax [phone]
In Japan, Fax [phone]