Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.
5451 North Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667 www.carsonsirens.com
TECHNICAL BULLETIN
MANUAL HORN
OFF POWER ON
RAD IO
STBY WAIL
YELP
THDR PA VOL
GS 230
INSTALLATION AND
OPERATING MANUAL
GS-230-01 14V
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Hazard
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
TB0360A Page 1 of 7 01/30/06
GS-230-01 SPECIFICATIONS
9-16 Volts DC, 8 Amps DC per 100W Speaker INPUT POWER:
SIREN MODE
OUTPUT POWER: 15 VDC input, 100W speaker(s)
One speaker - 105 Watts RMS
Two speakers - 180 Watts RMS
AUDIO MODE
OUTPUT POWER:
SIREN
FREQUENCY:
CYCLE RATES:
AUDIO
RESPONSE:
RADIO INPUT
SENSITIVITY:
OPERATING
TEMPERATURE:
SIZE:
WEIGHT:
NIGHT VISIBILITY:
PROTECTION:
14 VDC input, 100W speaker(s)
One speaker - 40 Watts RMS
Two speakers - 80 Watts RMS
700Hz - 1450Hz Nominal
WAIL - 15 cycles/min
YELP - 205 cycles/min
THUNDER - 100 cycles/min
200Hz - 10KHz +/-3db
Harmonic Distortion Less than 3% @ 1KHz
0.75VAC Input Min. for 40 Watts RMS Output (1 spkr)
-15° F to +140° F
6" Wide X 2-5/8" High X 6" Deep
4.5 pounds
Backlit front control panel when power is on
High Voltage – Siren output stops with input voltage above highest rating
Stops high output power from blowing speaker
Reverse Polarity - Fuse blows when power is wired backwards
Shorted Output – Fuse blows if speaker shorts (a common problem)
NOTICE
Due to continuous product improvements, we must reserve the right to change any specifications and information, contained in this manual at any time without notice.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this manual, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc. shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual.
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INSTALLATION
Proper installation of the unit is essential for years of safe, reliable operation. Please read all instruction before installing the unit. Failure to follow these instructions can cause serious damage to the unit or vehicle and may void warranties.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For the safety of the installer, vehicle operator, passengers and the community please observe the following safety precautions. Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may result in property damage, injury or
death.
Qualifications - The installer must have a firm knowledge of basic electricity, vehicle electrical systems and emergency equipment.
Hazard
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
Mounting - Mount the unit for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount in air bag deployment area.
Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle.
Wiring - Use wiring capable of handling the current required. Make sure all connections are tight. Route wiring to prevent wear, overheating and interference with air bag deployment. Install and check all wiring before connection to vehicle battery.
Testing - Test all siren functions after installation to assure proper operation. Test vehicle operation to assure no damage to vehicle.
Keep These Instructions - Keep these instructions in the vehicle or other safe place for future reference. Advise the vehicle operator of the location.
MOUNTING
Lockwa shers
The mounting bracket supplied can be installed above or below the unit. Mounting bolts (standard 1/4-20) slide into channels on each side of the case. Lockwashers should be used between the case and bracket as well as between the bracket and nut. Choose a mounting location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas. Inspect behind mounting area for clearance.
Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Consider wire routing and access to connections, as well as microphone bracket
Nut
Channel
(from rear) placement. Install mounting bracket to vehicle using 1/4" hardware
(not supplied).
A microphone clip along with mounting screws (CP3633) holds the
Bolt microphone in place
INSTALLER-SELECTABLE OPTIONS
Carefully cutting programming resistor jumpers on the printed circuit board inside the case can select various options.
Accessing Program Options: Remove the front panel by removing 4 corner screws with a 7/64” allen wrench. Observe polarity of the microphone connector.
When replacing the front panel re-install the microphone connector, observing polarity and clearance for backlighting.
Auxiliary Input Function - The auxiliary input normally activates the Horn function.
To activate the Manual/Thunder function with the auxiliary input cut the resistor jumper labeled "AUXI".
Auxiliary Input Polarity - The auxiliary input is normally activated by connecting to positive. To activate by connecting to ground cut the two resistor jumpers labeled
"AUXP".
Cutout Input Polarity - The cutout input is normally activated by connecting to positive. To activate by connecting to ground cut the two resistor jumpers labeled
Bracket
MANUAL
SWITCH
HORN SWITCH
AUXP
CUTP
T-T
TH/H
AUXI
OPTION JUMPERS
"CUTP".
Two-Tone - Two-Tone can replace Thunder by cutting the resistor jumper labeled "T-T".
Thunder/Horn Disable - The Thunder and Horn functions can be completely disabled by cutting the resistor jumper labeled "TH/H".
TB0360A Page 3 of 7 01/30/06
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Disconnect vehicle battery before making any electrical connections.
Electrical connections to the unit are made using a removable terminal block plug located on the back. A label on the unit identifies the terminal function. You should install the connector on the unit before wiring. If the unit needs service the connector can be easily (2) #18 AWG BRN
(#16 - 2 SPKR) removed without unwiring the connector.
The power supply of the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for adequate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the vehicle battery. The unit is fused on the back.
Attach leads by stripping 3/8", inserting into connector and clamp by tightening screw. Make sure the screw is
2 - SPKR - C onnect for same phase (+ to +)
(2) #22 AWG BLU
Connect to output jac k, ter mi nals or speaker of r adi o
RADIO
#22 AWG WHT (See below)
#22 AWG GRN ( See bel ow)
• • • • • • • • • •
#14 AWG R ED
Use s ec ond l ead
- for 2 - SPKR
+
BAT
#14 AWG BLK
Use s ec ond l ead for 2 - SPKR tight and the wire can't be pulled out. Failure to adequately tighten the screw can result in improper
operation or burning the connector and wire.
Wire Size and Termination - The diagram shows the minimum wire size used for each connection, along with recommended lead color. If the wire is longer than 10 ft. use the next larger wire size. Use only high quality crimp connectors for installation on the vehicle.
CONNECTIONS AT REAR OF UNIT WITH
CP4688-10 POWER CONNECTOR (10-Pin)
Header
10-P Terminal Block Plug (CP4688-10)
Install with screw terminals face down
Auxiliary Input Connection - The Auxiliary
Input allows activation by an external source of either the Horn or Man/Thdr function. The adjacent diagram shows three connection examples. See the INSTALLER-
SELECTABLE OPTIONS section for programming details.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.
HORN
RING
SWITCH
+VDC
SPLIC E
AUX
HORN
RING
SWITCH
HORN
+VDC
Added
SPDT
Switc h
+VDC Switching examples
AUX
HORN
MOMENTARY
FOOT
SWITCH
AUX
-VDC switching example
Must cut AUX P option resistors
Cutout Input Connection - The Cutout Input turns off any siren tone output when activated, and remains off until a control is activated or changed. The adjacent diagram shows two connection examples. See the INSTALLER-SELECTABLE OPTIONS section for programming details.
DOOR
SWITCH
+VDC
SPLIC E
DOME
LIGHT
CUT
+VDC Switching example
ADDED
DOOR
SWITCH
CUT
-VDC switching example
Must cut CUT P option resistors
TB0360A Page 4 of 7 01/30/06
OPERATION
Hazard
Do not operate siren without adequate hearing protection for you and anyone in immediate vicinity.
(Ref. OSHA 1910.95 for occupational noise exposure guidelines)
SELECTOR SWITCH
A rotary 5-position switch controls the primary operating function of the siren.
Thunder - A very rapidly changing tone used at intersections and in highly congested areas. Optional operation includes replacement of the Thunder tone with Two-Tone or disabling the Thunder tone entirely. These options are selected during installation and may be governed by State or Local laws.
(TH/H option.)
Yelp - A rapidly changing tone used in congested areas.
Wail - A slower changing tone used on highways.
Standby - A silent mode that allows Manual, Horn and Public Address operation.
Radio - Also known as Radio Repeat, this function amplifies a radio speaker input for re-broadcast outside the vehicle. No siren tones or PA operation are available in this position.
RADIO
STBY WAIL
YELP
THDR
MANUAL
With the selector switch in the Standby position this switch provides Manual siren tone control, rising when pressed and falling when released. This is used to momentarily alert motorists or in low noise areas. When pressed with the selector switch in any other siren position the output tone rises to the maximum pitch and holds until the Manual switch is released.
MANUAL HORN
HORN
This momentary push-button switch provides a simulated air-horn tone while pressed. This can be used to supplement the normal vehicle horn and is useful at intersections or in low noise areas. This tone will override all other siren tones. This function may be disabled during installation and may be governed by State or Local laws.
(TH/H option.)
MICROPHONE
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any siren tone when the button on the side is pressed.
PUBLIC ADDRESS VOLUME
A volume control is provided for public address volume. This should be set when the vehicle is parked. Set the PA volume to the maximum level with no feedback (squeal).
RADIO VOLUME
Set the radio volume with the Radio switch on and the radio volume set to the desired level.
PA VOL
Use a small screwdriver inserted into the radio adjust hole shown to adjust the volume to the desired level.
AUXILIARY INPUT
During installation an auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device. It provides various siren functions depending on the selector switch position, as shown in the table.
Wail/Yelp toggle changes the siren output from Wail to Yelp to Wail each time the
Selector
Switch
Thunder radio adj ust
Aux. Input
Function
Horn
Wail or Yelp Wail/Yelp Toggle auxiliary input is activated. Standby Manual Control
CUTOUT
During installation, a cutout input may be connected to a door switch. It turns off any siren tone when the door is opened. The siren tone will continue to be cut off even when the door is closed. Operating any switch or input will restore normal function.
TB0360A Page 5 of 7 01/30/06
SERVICE
This unit is designed to provide years of reliable service under even the worst conditions. Many times there may appear to be a problem with the unit when the true problem is in the speaker(s) or improper installation. The following chart shows typical symptoms and possible causes.
A blown fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker lead is shorted this fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the speaker leads and replace the fuse. If the siren emits a sound when in the Yelp position it is OK. Check the speaker(s) or leads for possible shorting.
PROBLEMS
Symptom Possible Check
No Power or siren output Power switch not turned on
Bad Speaker
Connector or connections loose
Rear panel fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
Does backlighting come on?
Do you hear a “pop” when turned on?
With siren on, yelp selected, listen for tone in amplifier.
Is an external fuse or circuit breaker used?
Are the power leads connected to a good buss?
No siren tone –
PA works
No PA
High Voltage Protection
Mic Button stuck
Cutout activated
Cutout Polarity Option set wrong
PA volume not set properly
Radio switch on
The input voltage must be less than highest rating.
Does Mic Button release properly?
Does the siren work when Cutout input is disconnected?
Is the CUTP option properly configured?
Try turning the PA volume control.
PA is not available when Radio is on.
Distorted siren sound
Intermittent siren tone
Horn function stuck on or
Manual stuck on
No Radio
Speaker assembly loose
Intermittent Aux input connection
Low Vehicle voltage
High Voltage Protection
Connector or connections loose
Bad Power connection
Mic Button Activation
Circuit breaker in supply connection
Horn switch stuck
Manual switch stuck
Aux input improperly connected
Aux input Polarity option set wrong
Unit not connected to a radio
Radio volume too low
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?
Is the Aux input used and wired properly?
The input voltage must be greater than lowest rating.
Is the vehicle voltage regulator working properly?
Is the connector tight on the back of the unit?
Is there a loose connection on a power lead?
Is something lying on the microphone?
Is a circuit breaker used with at least 50A rating?
Does the Horn switch return fully when released?
Does the Manual switch return fully when released?
Is the Aux input used and wired properly?
Is the AUXP option properly configured?
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?
Can you hear the radio in the vehicle?
Try adjusting the unit radio volume control.
Wrong siren tone
Thunder and Horn not working
Two-Tone option installed
Aux input set to wrong function
Thunder/Horn disabled
Is the T-T option jumper cut?
Is the AUXI option jumper configured properly?
Is the TH/H option jumper cut?
RETURN
If you have any questions concerning this or any other Carson product, please contact our Technical Service
Department at (888) 577-6877. Many issues can be handled over the phone. We can also be reached via e-mail at [email protected]
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical Service Department to obtain a Returned
Merchandise Authorization number (RMA#) before you ship the product to Carson. Please write the RMA# clearly on the package near the mailing label. Be sure to provide a return address, contact and phone number, along with a brief description of the problem.
TB0360A Page 6 of 7 01/30/06
PARTS
1
10
7
6
12
8
5 4 9
11
MANUAL HORN
OFF POWER ON
RAD IO
STBY WAIL
YELP
THDR PA VOL
GS 230
2
13
3
#
CP3571
1 CP4729
2 CP4687-10
3 CP4688-10
4 CP4730
5 CP4732
Description mounting
Button, gray (for pushbutton switch)
Connector, 10-P header
Connector, 10-P terminal block plug
Control, volume, PA (1K ohm)
Control, volume, Radio (1K ohm)
CP4726 Cover, extruded (does not include Front Panel or slide out Chassis)
ATO/ATC 20A Fuse, 20A Automotive
6 1555 KNOB
7 CP4849
Knob, rotary switch
Label, front panel
CP4750
CP3633
SR-15-1
8 CP4848
Microphone, Noise Canceling w/ Connector
Microphone clip with mounting screws
Microphone strain relief front
9 CP4759-CV-06 Screw, 3/8” #6-32 black socket head (8 required)
10 CP4685
11 CP3962
12 CP4847
13 CP4119
ED1602
Switch, pushbutton, Horn or Manual
Switch, rocker power
Switch, rotary function
Transistor, output (2 required) (Industry standard TIP36C, Not Texas Instruments)
Kit, Hardware (Terminal block plug, Mic clip with mounting screws, 1/4-20 bolts, nuts, and lockwashers)
TB0360A Page 7 of 7 01/30/06
