80K Amplifier

MAN-80K
REV. 14 FEB 03
80K AMPLIFIER
Sirens
Sirens with P.A.
Sirens with P.A. and Switching
INSTALLATION & OPERATION
FS UNITROL * 1108 RAYMOND WAY * ANAHEIM, CA 92801 * (714)871-3336 * Fax (714)871-3418
WWW.UNITROL.COM
Table of Contents
Check Model Number of Unit to be Installed
See Pages Listed Below that Apply
Model 80K Amplifier
Blowout Proof Transistors - Section I - pg. 1
Intrusion Alarm - Section VIII - pg. 9
Specifications - Section XI - pg. 12
Two-Tone Sounds - Section IX & X - pgs.10-11
Model 80KM Kawasaki Motorcycle Siren
Operation & Installation - Section II - pg. 2
P.A. Kit Installation - Section IV - pg. 4
Model 180K Basic Siren
Operation & Installation - Section III - pg. 3
Intrusion Alarm Connections - Section VIII - pg. 9
P.A. Kit Installation - Section IV - pg. 4
Model 183K
Standard & Optional Features - Section IV - pg. 5
Siren & Warning Light Control - Section IV - pg. 5
Rear Connections - Section IV - pg. 5
Horn Ring Connections- Section IV - pg. 5
Series 280 & 480 Siren/P.A. System
Operation - Section V - pg. 6
Installation - Section VI & VII - pgs. 7 & 8
Intrusion Alarm Connections - Section VIII - pg. 9
Two-Tone Siren Sounds - Section X - pg. 11
Warning Light Connections - Section VII - pg. 8
Miscellaneous
Indicator Light Replacement - Section XI - pg. 12
Power Jack Plug Wiring - Section XI - pg. 12
Tape Jack Plug Wiring - Section XI - pg. 12
Trouble Shooting - pgs. 1 & 12
Warranty and Where to Call- Section XII - pg. 13
i
SECTION I - BASIC SYSTEM
Model 80K
USED WITH ALL MODELS
Containing electronic components for generating
sounds, the Model 80K amplifier is the basic part
of the siren and common to all models described in
this Manual. It will be found in the same cabinet
with it’s controls or in a separate cabinet remote
from it’s controls.
External Components Include:
a) Park Kill Wire- deactivates siren when
grounded.
b) Power Transistors (Rear) - Electrically
“hot” during Siren/P.A. operation. Contact
with metal objects will destroy them.
c) Fuse (Rear) - In unlikely event of failure,
do not overfuse.
PRECAUTIONS
1. Although the 80K has an extremely wide operating
temperature range (-40F to + 185F), underhood
installation where temperatures exceed 230F is not
advised.
2. Cabinet is not waterproof.
BLOW-OUT PROOF TRANSISTOR PROTECTION
1. Output transistors, blown out in normal sirens by
failures of the siren speaker or its wiring are protected
in the Unitrol 80K by automatic circuitry.
a) Short-circuited speaker or wiring stops
siren sounds. A soft “popping” noise from
the speaker or amplifier will occur 60 times
per minute.
b) Blown-out speaker (open coil) or
disconnected speaker wire causes amplifier
to emit siren sounds from amplifier but not
from speaker.
c) Primary input voltage above 16Vdc will
cause shutdown of tone generating stages. No
sounds will be emitted by the amplifier or siren
speaker.
2. In all instances, amplifier operation will automatically
resume when the external defect is repaired.
ASSEMBLY METHODS
1. Amplifier can be used with control units as
follows:
a) Remote - Amplifier is installed
remotely from control unit and
connected by a 4 foot or 15 foot
cable.
b) Single-Unit - Amplifier / control
unit are plugged together and
housed in one cabinet.
Page 1
SECTION II - KAWASAKI SIREN
Model 80KM
3. Horn Button - The Kawasaki horn circuit is grounded (-)
STANDARD & OPTIONAL FEATURES
which must be inverted to +12V by a relay. Using 18ga. wire
1. Model U80KM consists of a UMCO83 cable
for new connections, proceed as follows:
and Model 80K Amplifier. The cable interfaces
a) Disconnect horn button wire from regular horns.
the amplifier with Kawasaki handlebar switches
b) Install a light duty (1A) Single-Pole, Single-Throw
that control WAIL and YELP.
(SPST) relay (customer supplied).
2. Optional connections or equipment can include:
c) Of the relay’s two coil connections, connect
a) Air Horn
either one to battery (+). Connect other to horn wire
b) Microphone & Cable (PA Kit)
button.
UPA1 - UMNCT-SB & UCARK
d) Of the relay’s two contact point connections,connect
INSTALLATION
one (either one) to battery (+). Connect other one to
1. Set slide switch on bottom of amplifier to match
“AIR HORN” wire.
power rating of siren speaker.
2. Install amplifier in left saddlebag with transistors See diagram below for schematic details noting that
one coil terminal and one contact terminal both can
down, connector up. U-brackets may be used for
go to the same battery (+) source.
mounting, but amplifier life will be prolonged by
“floating” amplifier in 1-1/2” - 2” medium-density foam.
CONNECTIONS
1. Locate Kawasaki wiring harness for siren. Removal
of gas tank and / or inspection plate at left side may be
necessary. Wires have insulated bullet connectors.
2. Connect siren speaker to BROWN wires from 12-pin
amplifier connector.
3. Make balance of connections by matching Kawasaki
wire colors with amplifier harness wires.
AIR HORN
1. +12V applied to the amplifier’s “AIR HORN” wire
(3-pin power connector) operates the air horn, +12V
can be supplied by a separate switch or the regular horn
button.
2.Separate Switch - Install a light duty (1 to 3 ampere)
Single-Pole, Single-Throw (SPST), normally open push
button switch.
a)Using 18 ga. (minimum ), wire connect one switch
terminal (either one) to source of +12V.
b) Connect other terminal to “AIR HORN” wire.
Page 2
SECTION III - BASIC SIREN SYSTEM
Model 180K
TOGGLE SWITCH INSTALLATION
1. Drill 15/32” hole. Make connections first.
STANDARD & OPTIONAL FEATURES
1. System consists of a Model 180K toggle switch,
CO29K cable and 80K Amplifier.
2. Switch controls siren, vehicle horn button, and can
control one warning light:
Choice 1:
Down-Off/Siren-Off : horn ring blows horn.
Middle-On 1: Siren rises and falls manually
only as horn button is pressed and released.
Up-On 2: Siren operates in WAIL; horn button
activates 5-second YELP.
Choice 2:
Down-Off/Siren-Off : horn ring blows horn.
Middle-On 1: Siren operates in Wail ; horn
button activates 5-second YELP.
Up-On 2: Siren operates in HI-LO; horn button
activates 5-second HETRO.
HORN BUTTON or FOOT SWITCH
1. Foot switch may be used in place of , or in addition
to, horn button for controlling siren.
Foot Switch Only- Install light-duty switch
(1-3A). Connect one side of switch to ground
(-) or positive (+) ,whichever is most convenient.
Connect other side of switch to toggle switch
terminal #9. Do not use terminals #7 and #8.
Horn Button and Foot Switch- Connect one
side of foot switch to ground (-) or positive (+)
to match horn button polarity. Connect other side
of switch to terminal #9.
CHOICE of SOUNDS
1. See Standard & Optional Features and make connections
to match choice.
Choice #1: Connect ORANGE wire to terminal
#3; WHT/RED wire to terminal #6.
Choice #2: Connect BLUE wire to terminal #3;
ORANGE wire to terminal #6.
Optional Connections or Equipment can include:
a) AIR HORN - See item 3 below.
b) Microphone & radio P.A. - See Section V.
c) Intrusion Alarm - See Section VIII.
d) Two-Tone Siren Sounds - See Section IX.
AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION
1. If installing in Harley-Davidson motorcycle, “float”
amplifier without brackets in 1-1/2” to 2” thick medium
density foam at bottom and four sides. Use mounting
brackets supplied for all other installations.
2. Connect RED and BLACK primary pigtails as shown.
RED wire must be connected directly to battery (+) post
or point nearest battery having heavy gauge wire.
3. If air horn is desired, install light duty (1-3A) SPST
switch. Connect one side of switch to +12V. Connect
other side to “AIR HORN” wire in 3-pin connector.
WARNING LIGHT or FLASHER CONNECTION
1. A warning light may be connected to switch terminal
#6 only as follows:
a) Warning light can not have separate on/off
switch.
SIREN SPEAKER CONNECTIONS
1. Connect speakers as shown except if installing two
amplifiers for Two-Tone system. See Section IX.
Page 3
SECTION IV- PUBLIC ADDRESS KITS
For Models 80KM & 180K
INSTALLATION
1. Locate area for jack installation. Allow 1”
diameter clearance space for back portion of
jack. Drill 3/8” diameter mounting hole.
2. Un-plug Yellow and Gray wires in 12-pin
connector cable. Extend wires as needed and
connect with wires of same colors coming
from jack.
3. Connect Black ground wire from jack to
vehicle chassis(-).
4. Plug microphone into jack.
5. Adjust gain potentiometer for desired output.
OPTIONAL PA KIT
1. Models 80KM & 180K are shipped with cable
assemblies having four wires (Yellow, Gray, Green
& Purple) intended for connection of public address
kit.
2. One PA kit is available (UPA1).
OPERATION
1. “PA” kit requires no switching. PA announcements are
made by pressing the microphone button and talking. Siren
sounds are stopped until mic button is released.
Page 4
Section IV Cont.
MODEL 183K
STANDARD & OPTIONAL FEATURES
REAR CONNECTIONS
1. The system consists of a Model UM183K controller,
a UM80K amplifier and a UCO30-4 cable, ( 4 foot
version), or a UCO30-15, ( 15 foot version).
1. B1 terminals from left to right are:
a. Grd - Battery Ground
b. SPK - Siren Driver.
c. SPK - Siren Driver.
d. HORN - Spliced into the car horn circuit.
e. Ring - Spliced into the car horn circuit.
2. The UM183K controller can control the siren and
warning lights.
3. A 60 amp progressive slide switch supplies 20 amps
of power per switch position.
4. Horn Ring Transfer
a. Horn and Horn Ring connections on the rear
of a unit MUST be made to permit operation
of Manual siren and Yelp of Hetro Override.
See siren & warning light control for correct hook
up of the Horn Ring circuit.
5. Indicator lights to alert the user that there is an active
circuit at a glance.
2. B2 terminals from left to right are:
a. +12V - Battery positive.
b. 1-2-3 - Slide switch output during position
1, 2, & 3.
c. 2-3 - Slide switch output only during switch
positions 2 & 3.
d. 3 - Slide switch output during position 3 only.
e. 1- Slide switch output during position 1 only.
HORN RING CONNECTIONS
Optional Equipment can include:
1. UPA2
a. UCAR-183K, P.A. cable
b. UMNCT-SB, P.A. microphone
2. UDMK, Dual Mode
1. Cut wire apart between either the Horn Ring and the
Horn Relay or between the Horn Relay and the vehicle
Horn. Extend the wires to reach the rear of the control
unit.
SIREN & WARNING LIGHT CONTROL
2. Connect the wires to the B1 terminals screws marked
HORN and RING.
The progressive slide switch position 1, 2, & 3
turn on warning lights. Position 3 turns on the
siren and horn ring controls.
DO NOT REVERSE THE WIRES.
The toggle switch controls the siren’s mode of
operation during slide switch position 3.
OFF - No Siren.
MAN - Allows the siren to operate in manual mode.
AUTO - Siren & override functions automatically.
Page 5
SECTION V - SIREN/PA SYSTEM
Operating Models 280K & 480K
STANDARD & OPTIONAL FEATURES
1. All models perform essentially the same in that a Master
Switch turns the siren on and controls the vehicle horn ring.
The horn ring and Unitrol rotary switch control siren sounds.
2. Other features include warning light control (most
models) , air horn, public address, power control for two-way
radio, power jack, panel light, and indicator lights.
3. Optional connections or equipment can include:
a) Rocker Accessory Switch
b) Intrusion Alarm - See Section VIII
c) Two-Tone Siren sounds - See Section X
SIREN & WARNING LIGHT CONTROL
1. Model 280 - Middle toggle position turns siren on, horn
ring or spring-loaded. Right toggle position controls siren
as described below.
2. Model 480 - Lever position 1, 2, & 3 turn on warning
lights. Lever position 3 turns on siren. Horn ring controls
siren as described in next item.
3. The vehicle horn ring controls siren as follows:
During MAN: Siren rises and falls only as horn
ring is manually pressed and released.
During WAIL: Horn ring activates 5-second Yelp.
During HI-LO: Horn ring activates 5-second Hetro.
AIR HORN & SIREN TEST
1. Model 280 - Air horn operates by pressing miniature
pushbutton switch.
2. Models 480 - Air horn operates by pressing miniature
toggle switch to “HRN”. Siren operates without warning
lights by pressing toggle to “TST”.
OUTSIDE RADIO CALLS
1. Incoming radio calls are amplified over the outside siren
speaker when the rotary switch is set on RADIO. Loudness
is regulated by the inner rotary switch knob as well as the
radio’s volume control.
RADIO POWER CONTROL
1. The two-way radio may be left “on” at all times.
The rotary switch keeps it ignition-controlled in
MAN, WAIL, YELP, and HI-LO settings.
2. In RADIO setting, power to the radio is
automatically switched to battery-direct so calls
can be transmitted and received without ignition
keys.
MICROPHONE PA
1. PA system operates by pressing microphone button.
Siren, if operating, stops until button is released.
2. “K” models use a separate microphone for PA.
3. “KR” models use a radio microphone for PA.
Microphone is controlled by lighted pushbutton
switch:
OUT(unlighted) - Microphone controls radio.
IN(lighted) - Microphone controls PA system.
RECORDED TAPE PA
1. Recorded announcements can be played over PA
system by setting rotary switch in RADIO and
plugging headphone outlet of cassette player into tape
jack at lower right. Jack is not available in models using
the radio microphone for PA.
See Section XI for plug wiring.
RADAR POWER JACK
1. 12V power can be supplied to any device drawing less
than 18 amperes. See Section XI for plug wiring.
Page 6
SECTION VI SIREN /PA SYSTEM
Installing Models 280K & 480K
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
1. System is housed in remote cabinetry as specified.
All models include:
a) Two U-brackets.
b) 12-Pin heavy-duty connector with pigtails.
c) Remote cable for remote systems.
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
1. Options may include:
a) Two amplifiers and short interconnect
cable for Two-Tone siren systems. See
Section IX.
b) Rocker switches for alley lights, shotgun
rack, floodlights, etc.
PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTIONS - 12-Pin
Connector
1. Connections of following pigtail wires is mandatory:
IGNITION: Supplies power to panel light,
radio and accessory switches.
HORN RING and HORNS: Supplies siren
control and normal vehicle horn operation.
SIREN SPKR (2): Connect speaker(s) as
shown unless installing two amplifiers.
BLACK: Supplies system ground (-).
2. Numbered wires (“3”, “2-3”, etc.) are for warning
lights.
TWO-WAY RADIO CONNECTIONS
1. Audio - If outside radio calls are desired inspect
microphone plate on sloped underside:
a) If two WHITE housing with male blades
exist, locate radio speaker. “T” into wires
that run between speaker and radio head
with 18ga. wire. Connect other ends to
WHITE housings.
b) If WHITE housings do not exist or do not contain
blades, audio connections will be established when
radio cable is plugged into radio head.
2. Radio Control - If radio power control is desired locate the
radio’s transmit and receive control wires and proceed as
follows:
a) Tie both wires together.
b) Extend with 18-ga. wire and connect to BLACK
housing on microphone connector plate.
PA MICROPHONE
Plug microphone into connector contained in plate on
sloped underside of control unit.
SYSTEM PRIMARY WIRE SIZE
1. Install circuit breaker near battery. Use following wire size
for extending RED control unit primary wire:
Models 280K - 12 ga.
Models 480K & 480KR - 8 ga.
2. Connect breaker directly to battery (+) post or to any point
near battery having heavy (6-ga. minimum) wire. Do not
connect to alternator, ignition switch, or to any ignition controlled source.
Page 7
SECTION VI & VII SIREN/ PA SYSTEMS
Installing Models 280K & 480K (cont.)
Model 280 - One Wire: 3
Use wire for controlling lights.
FOOT SWITCH
1. A foot switch may be used in addition to or in place
of the horn ring for siren controls.
2. Install light-duty (1-3 amp) foot switch. Using 18ga.
(minimum) wire connect one terminal to ground (-) or
battery (+), whichever is most convenient.
3. Connect other terminal to “foot switch” pigtail wire
in 12-pin control connector.
Model 480 - Five Wires: 1, 1-2, 1-2-3, 2-3, and 3.
Use 1-2-3 for rear lights or lights of secondary
importance; 2-3 for front lights or lights of greater
importance; 3 for additional lights.
SECTION VII - WARNING LIGHTS
NUMBERED WIRES
1. The 12-pin connector of each model contains
numbered pigtail which can be used for controlling
warning lights .
2. Numbers stamped on insulation correspond to
Master Switch position that supply power (+12V).
CURRENT LIMITS
1. Model 280: 15A Total. Limit of wire : 15A.
2. Model 480: 60A Total. Limit each wire:
1/15 amperes
1-2/15 amperes
1-2-3/20 amperes
2-3/20 amperes
3/20 amperes
WIRE SIZES
1. Proper warning light operation and protection
against fires can be assured only when adequate
wire size is used for the primary system as well
as for warning lights.
SUGGESTED CONNECTIONS
1. Since there are no uniform lighting arrangements,
there are no set rules for connecting wires.Instructions
appearing below are only suggestions. You may prefer,
and are encouraged to experiment with other connections
that could better suit your requirements.
Page 8
HIGHER CURRENT CAPACITY
1. Higher currents may be achieved by using a
numbered wire to operate a heavy-duty relay
or solenoid. 30 ampere continuous-duty relay
and 100 ampere solenoids are available from
automotive distributors. They should be rated
for continuous duty.
See drawing below for connections.
SECTION VIII - INTRUSION ALARM
For All Models
PURPOSE & OPERATION
1. The 80K amplifier is capable of producing a 1600 Hz.
steady tone. The tone can be used to warn out-of-vehicle
driver that the vehicle or its contents are endangered.
2. The tone occurs when ground (-) is applied to the amplifier’s
“ALARM” wire. Ground can be supplied by a motion-detector
device or by individual switches at the trunk, gas lid, and/or
hood.
3. A separate on/off switch may be used to permit normal use of
the vehicle. The switch may be a keyed type or a concealed toggle
having single-pull; single-throw contacts.
Both types are available from radio parts stores. Connections
are as follows:
a) Using 18ga. wire, connect one switch terminal
(either one) to “ALARM” wire.
b) Connect remaining terminal as outlined below.
MOTION DETECTOR
1. Depending on manufacturer, a motion detector will have an
output terminal or wire that becomes ground (-) or positive (+)
when the detector senses vehicle movement. This output may be
used as follows:
a) Ground (-) Output:
Using 18ga. wire, connect output to remaining
terminal of system on/off switch.
b) Positive (+) Output:
Install a light duty (1 to 3A) - SPST relay. Use
output to operate relay. Using 18 ga. wire, connect
relay contacts so they apply ground to “ALARM”
wire.
Note: If a relay is undesirable, the positive output may
be used to operate siren sounds or the air horn:
c) Connect one terminal (either one) of system on/off
switch to desired pin in amplifier 12-pin connector
(see faceplate for functions) or to “AIR HORN” wire
in 3-pin amplifier power connector.
Page 9
d) Connect remaining terminal of system
on/off switch to positive output of motion
detector.
2. Connect remaining terminals of motion detector
according to manufacturer’s instructions.
INDIVIDUAL SWITCHES
1. Spring-loaded switches, like those used in cars for
turning on interior lights are internally grounded and
have SPST contacts. They also have one insulated
terminal. Other switch styles, such as mercury tilt
switches, can also be used.
2. Connect switches as follows:
Using 18ga wire, connect insulated terminal of all
switches together. Connect one wire from joined
switches to remaining terminal of system on/off
switch.
3. If switches have two terminals, connect one
(either one) to vehicle chassis. If internally
grounded switches are being installed on a plastic
or insulated surface, run an 18ga. wire from vehicle
chassis to the switch body.
WARNING
If installed on the vehicle’s exterior, the system
on/off switch should be a water-resistant type or
installed in a water-free area to prevent contact
corrosion. Corrosion will eventually form a bridge
across contacts that will freeze the switch in “on”
condition thereby making the Intrusion Alarm active
during normal vehicle use.
SECTION IX - TWO-TONE SYSTEMS
For Model 180K
REQUIREDEQUIPMENT
1. Control Unit- Any existing 180 system can be used.
No modifications or additional switches are needed.
2. Amplifiers- Two amplifiers, each housed in a separate
cabinet, are required.
3. Cables- A UMCO29T is needed for interconnecting the
two amplifiers. UMCO30K (4 foot or 15 foot long) is
needed for interconnecting both amplifiers with the control
unit.
UMCO29K normally supplied with control switches.
4. Siren Speakers- At least one speaker must be used with
each amplifier. Two speakers may be used as indicated by
dotted lines in drawing.
Note: A speaker having one horn, but two driver units
(such as 200 watt speaker), is electrically the same as
two speakers.
AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION
1. Install first amplifier as indicated in drawing.
2. Set slide switch on bottom of amplifier chassis
to match power rating of speakers to be used.
3. Install amplifiers with 4 inches maximum
between cabinets.
PRELIMINARY CONNECTIONS
1. Interconnect AIR HORN wires from both 3-pin
amplifier connectors using the appropriate connector.
2. Interconnect ALARM wires from both amplifiers if
Intrusion Alarm (Section VIII) is desired. If not wanted
tape and do not use wire.
3. Connect one terminal (either one) of a siren speaker
to vehicle chassis (-). Repeat for all other speakers using
same terminal # of each speaker.
4. Connect the BROWN wire from each amplifier
connector to chassis (-).
5. If it is desired, wires may be cut in the UMC029T to
restrict the number of sounds available in the second
amplifier.
FINAL CONNECTIONS
See drawing.
IMPORTANT: Keep RED amplifier primary wires equal
in length. Connect both to a length of 10ga wires.Connect
other end directly to battery (+) post or to an appropriate
power distribution terminal. Do not connect to ignition
switch or ignition - controlled circuit.
Page 10
SECTION X - TWO-TONE SYSTEMS
For Models 280K & 480K
REQUIREDEQUIPMENT
1. Control Unit - Any existing 280K or 480K
control unit can be used. No modifications or
additional switches are required.
2. Amplifiers - Two amplifiers, each housed in a
separate cabinet, are required.
3. Cables - A UMCO30T cable is needed for
interconnecting the two amplifiers. UMCO30K
(4’ or 15’ long) is needed for interconnecting
both amplifiers with the control unit.
4. Siren Speakers - At least one speaker must be
used with each amplifier. Two speakers may be
used as indicated by dotted lines in drawing.
PRELIMINARY CONNECTIONS
1. Interconnect AIR HORN wires from both 3 - pin
amplifier connectors using the appropriate
connector.
2. Intrusion Alarm - See Section VIII.
3. Connect one terminal (either one) of one siren
speaker to vehicle chassis (-). Connect same number
terminal of remaining speakers to vehicle chassis(-).
4. Of the two SIREN SPEAKER wires coming
from the 12-pin control unit pigtail connector,
connect either one to vehicle chassis (-), and the
other to the speaker.
Note: A speaker having one horn, but two driver
units (such as a 200 watt speaker), is electrically
the same as two speakers.
AMPLIFIER INSTALLATION
1. Install first amplifier as indicated in drawing.
2. Set slide switch on bottom of amplifier
chassis to match power rating of speakers
to be used.
3. Install amplifier with 4 inches maximum
between cabinets.
FINAL CONNECTIONS
a) see drawings.
1. The RED primary wire from the added amplifier
must connect directly to the positive (+) battery post
or to an appropriate power distribution terminal.
2. It is vitally important for proper siren operation
that a 12-ga (minimum) “jumper” be placed across the
RED primary wires of each amplifier as indicated.
Page 11
SECTION XI - GENERAL INFORMATION
AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATIONS
Zero
Standby Current Drain
800 Mils.
Current Drain During PA
15A.
Maximum siren current Drain @ 200 Watts
Siren Output (Switch Adjustable) 58 to 200 Watts
500 to 1600 Hz.
WAIL and YELP Frequencies
625 & 575 Hz.
HI-LO & HETRO Frequencies
1600 Hz.
Intrusion Alarm Frequency
1050 Hz.
Air Horn Mid-Frequency
11 Per Minute
WAIL Repetition Rate
240 Per Minute
YELP Repetition Rate
60 Per Minute
HI-LO Repetition Rate
900 Per Minute
HETRO Repetition Rate
25 or 50 Watts
Audio Output with One Speaker
Less Than 10%
Audio Distortion
Protected
Reversed Input Polarity
Protected
Input Voltage Over 16Vdc
Protected
Speaker Short Circuit
Automatic
Amplifier Restoration After Shorting
DETERMINING WIRE SIZE
1. It is essential to proper siren and warning light
operation to use wires large enough to carry the
load (amperes). Wires too small will create siren
malfunctions and reduce warning light brilliance
and can easily cause vehicle fires.
2. Primary Wire Size - Refers to model number and
corresponding instructions in this Manual.
3. Warning Light & Accessory Sizes - Determine
wire size by adding current drain (amperes) of all
lights or accessories that will be connected to any
one control wire from Unitrol.
4. Warning Light Current Drain - Lamps used in
warning lights are frequently rated in terms of “watts”
rather than “amperes”. Simply divide watts by vehicle
voltage (13 volts nominal). The result will be amperes.
5. Motors & Relays - Most motors used in warning
light bars draw 1 ampere or less. Most relays draw 3
amperes or less.
6. Keep in mind that wire diameter increases as wire
gauge number decreases.
NOTE : Hi - Lo is deleted in the state of CA. The tone
is not recognized as a primary emergency warning
tone as per Title 13.
POWER JACK PLUG
1. A radar, cord light or any device drawing less than 18
amperes can be operated from the power jack in Models
280K and 480K. The jack accepts a two-contact “telephone”
plug. Use 18ga. (minimum) insulated wire. Observe polarity.
TAPE JACK PLUG
1. Recorded messages and music can be played over the PA
system with Models 280K and 480K. A cord plugs into the
recorder’s headphone jack at one end into the tape jack at the
other end.
2. Only battery-operated recorders can be used. The Unitrol
power jack cannot be used to power the recorder.
3. Audio connections may be obtained by using audio plugs
with 20-24 gauge wire.
Page 12
INDICATOR LIGHT REPLACEMENT
1. Indicator lights in models 280K, 480K and
Switchpak are designed to be replaced as a
complete unit (the light bulb is molded into the
indicator light body). The body is secured in
place by barrel pressure. No hardware is used
or required.
2. To replace, proceed as follows:
a) Pull control unit chassis forward and
de-solder wire from the two lamp terminals.
b) Push indicator light from terminal-end
until body passes through faceplate.
c) Reverse process to install replacement
light using care not to overheat lamp
terminals during soldering.
SECTION XII - WARRANTY & TECHNICAL SUPPORT
FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY & LIMITATIONS
UNITROL products described in this Manual are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for five years from installation date.Any product found to be faulty will, at the factory’s
option after inspection, be replaced or repaired and returned without charge.
The Warranty does not cover any charges which may be incurred for removing a suspected defective
unit, returning the suspected defective unit to the factory or for installing a replacement unit.
The Warranty does not cover units that have been tampered with or on which unauthorized repairs or
modifications have been made nor does it cover units that have been abused or used beyond limits
stated in specifications.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
The easiest way to solve a UNITROL problem is to phone the factory. Outside California call toll-free
1-800-854-3375. Inside California, call (714) 871-3336. Our office is open Monday through Friday
8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Pacific Standard Time.
We recommend that any suspect unit be returned to the factory for repair whether it is in Warranty
or not. Technicians have constantly updated information and components.
Please include a brief description of the problem along with your name and phone number so we may
contact you in the event bench tests do not reveal the in-vehicle problem.
Page 13
SAFETY MESSAGE TO OPERATORS OF
UNITROL ELECTRONIC SIRENS AND
LIGHT/SOUND SYSTEMS
Signaling Limitations
Be aware that the use of your visual and audible
signaling devices does not give you the right to force
your way through traffic. Your emergency lights,
siren, and actions are REQUESTING the
right-of-way.
WARNING
The lives of people depend on your operation of
UNITROL products. It is important to read and
follow all instructions shipped with the products.
In addition, listed below are some other important
safety instructions and precautions you should
follow.
Although your warning system is operating properly
it may not alert everyone. People may not hear, see,
or heed your warning signal. You must recognize this
fact and continue driving cautiously.
Qualifications
To properly use a light system you must have a
good understanding of general vehicle operation,
a high proficiency in the use of safety warning
equipment and thorough knowledge of State and
Federal UNIFORM TRAFFIC CODES.
Situations may occur which obstruct your warning
signal when natural or man-made objects are
between your vehicle and others, such as when you
raise your hood or trunk lid. If these situations occur,
be especially careful.
Sound Hazards
Your hearing, and the hearing of others in or close
to your emergency vehicle could be damaged by
loud sounds. This can occur from short exposures
to very loud sounds or from longer exposures to
moderately loud sounds. For hearing conservation
guidance, refer to Federal, State or local
recommendations. OSHA Standard 1910.95
offers guidance on “Permissible Noise Exposure”.
All effective sirens and horns produce loud sounds
which may, in certain situations, cause permanent
hearing loss. You should minimize your exposure
times and wear suitable hearing protection.
Sound Limitations
Maximum sound output will be severely reduced
if any objects are in front of the speaker. If your
installation has obstructions in front of the speaker,
drive even more cautiously.
Frequently inspect the speaker to ensure that it is
clear of any obstruction such as mud or snow, which
will reduce maximum sound output.
Driving Limitations
At the start of your shift, you should ensure that the
warning system is securely attached to the vehicle
and operating properly.
If the unique combination of emergency vehicle
equipment installed in your vehicle has resulted
in the light/siren controls being installed in a
position that does not allow you to operate them
by touch only, OPERATE CONTROLS ONLY
WHEN VEHICLE IS STOPPED.
If driving conditions require your full attention, you
should avoide operating the light/siren controls
while the vehicle is in motion.
Continuing Education
File these instructions in a safe place and refer
to them periodically. Give a copy of these
instructions to new recruits and trainees.
Failure to follow these safety precautions may
result in property damage, serious injury, death
to you, your passengers or to others.
Page 14
SAFETY MESSAGE TO INSTALLERS
OF
ELECTRONIC SIRENS
Sound output will be severely reduced if any objects
are in front of this speaker. If maximum sound output
is required for your application, you should ensure
that the front of the speaker is clear of any obstruction.
WARNING
The lives of people depend on your safe installation
and servicing of UNITROL products. It is important
to read and follow all instructions shipped with the
products. In addition, listed below are some other
important safety instructions and precautions you
should follow before installation:
Install the speaker(s) in a location which provides
maximum signaling effectiveness and minimizes the
sound reaching the vehicle’s occupants.
Installation of two speakers requires wiring speakers in
phases.
Qualifications
To properly install an electronic siren you must
have a good understanding of automotive electrical
procedures and systems, along with proficiency
in the installation and service of safety warning
equipment.
DO NOT install equipment or route wiring or cord in the
deployment path of an air bag.
Locate the control head so the vehicle, controls, and
microphone can be operated safely.
Sound Hazards
Your hearing and the hearing of others, in or close
to your emergency vehicle, could be damaged by
loud sounds. This can occur from short exposure to
very loud sounds or from longer exposures to
moderately loud sounds. For hearing conservation
guidance, refer to federal, state, or local
recommendations. OSHA Standard 1910.95 offers
guidance on “Plermissible Noise Exposure”.
When drilling into a vehicle structure, be sure that both
sides of the surface are clear of anything that could be
damaged.
If wiring is shorted to vehicle frame, high current
conductors can cause hazardous sparks resulting in
electrical fires or flying molten metal.
All effective sirens and horns produce loud sounds,
which may, in certain situations, cause permanent
hearing loss.You should minimize your exposure
times and wear suitable hearing protection.
After Installation
After installation, test the electronic siren, speaker
system, and light system to ensure that it is operating
properly.
During Installation
DO NOT connect this system to the vehicle battery
until ALL other electrical connections are made,
mounting of all components is complete, and you
have verified that no shorts exist.
Test all vehicle functions, including horn operation
and vehicle light systems, to ensure proper operation.
After testing is complete, provide a copy of these
instructions to the instructional staff and all operating
personel.
Be sure the siren amplifier and speaker(s) in your
installation have compatible wattage rating.
In order for the electronic siren to function properly,
the ground connection must be made to a solid chassis
component and not to an insulated point.
Page 15
File these instructions in a safe place and refer to them
when maintaining and/or reinstalling the product.
Failure to follow all safety precautions and
instructions may result in property damage,
serious injury, or death to you or others.