Audio Authority Model 903 Control Panel User's Guide

Introduction

The Model 903 Control Panels connect to the Access™ Demonstration Network switching system. They display currently selected products and provide an easy method for controlling the display, selecting products, storing and recalling systems, and activating special features. The panel controls are divided into two functional sections: a selection keypad and a Product Group selection.

For assistance with installation or any difficulties, contact Audio Authority Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Additional diagrams and tips are available at audioauthority.com/access_tips.

In addition to the 903 Control Panel, the Access™ System can also be operated via:

• Product Select Buttons (PSBs) – push-buttons located near each product.
• IR Remote Control – IR codes available for download from the website.
• Computer Touchscreen – using custom software for product selection and control functions.

Configuring the Control Panel

The Configuration DIP Switches on the back of the Control Panel enable or disable specific functions. These settings are typically adjusted during installation to match merchandising requirements but can be changed at any time. The following table details the function of each switch:

Installation

Preparation:

• To flush mount the Control Panel, cut an opening approximately 7 inches (178 mm) wide by 5-1/8 inches (130 mm) high.
• Use the panel to mark screw hole locations and drill 7/64-inch (2.5 mm) holes for mounting screws.
• Insert the provided slide-in Product Group labels into the display windows to identify each component group. Refer to page 6 of the 903 User's Guide for detailed labeling information.

Note: The 903 Control Panel can be remotely controlled using a third-party IR remote programmed with codes available at audioauthority.com/access_tips.

Connection and Mounting:

1. Connect the 903 Control Panel to the 980 System Module using the supplied ten-foot cables, plugging into the header marked "903".
2. Set the Configuration Switches on the control panel as described previously.
3. Mount the control panel using the four provided screws. Do not overtighten.

Testing System Function (903 Test Sequence)

After installation, test the Control Panel by rebooting the system (press SECURE, 88, SECURE). Observe the following test results:

1. Lamp Test: All display segments and indicators on the control panel should light briefly.
2. Info Display: The Info Display should show the software version (e.g., 3.4).
3. System Bus Test:
   • If the word "bUS" flashes in the Info Display, there is a problem with a system bus cable or switching module.
   • To diagnose: Carefully unplug portions of the yellow-red-blue-black system bus cable to isolate them from the 980 module. Press any key. If "bUS" disappears, the fault is isolated. Re-address the module or replace the cable. If "bUS" persists, try a different cable.
   • Contact Audio Authority Technical Service at 800-322-8346 for assistance with parts replacement.
4. Module Address Scan: The diagnostic program scans active module addresses. You will see these addresses count up in the Info Display as product group numbers appear in the Product Group windows. Electronics groups appear before speaker groups.

Troubleshooting Module Addresses:

• Duplicate Addresses: If numeric displays flash during the scan, two or more modules share the same address. Identify duplicates by noting group and module numbers in the Info Display and PG windows. Speaker pairs require distinct Left/Right addresses. Use SECURE, 88, SECURE to reboot and repeat the test if needed.
• Module Count Mismatch: If the module count in a group does not match the physical count, check for disconnected or mis-addressed modules. For example, "E" modules indicate electronics, "S" modules indicate speakers.
• Address Gaps: Gaps in module ID settings (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 4, 5) are not allowed and will be reported incorrectly. Correct addresses sequentially.

How Product Groups Appear on the Control Panel

Module addresses set during installation determine the order of Product Groups on the Control Panel, typically following the signal path (e.g., Sources, Processors, Receivers, then Speakers). Unused groups can be programmed for promotional systems.

The last Product Group can store up to 99 preprogrammed systems if DIP Switch "C" is ON. Custom labels can be printed on 20-24# paper with specifications: Label size: 0.45" H x 2" W; Text Center: 11/16" from left edge; Max. Text Width: 1-3/8"; Max. Text Height: 3/8".

Selecting Products

To select a product by number:

1. Press the desired Product Group Select Key if the group is not already selected.
2. Enter a 1 or 2-digit product number using the numeric keypad. The display will clear and show the new entry.
3. Press the Product Group Select Key to confirm, or wait 2 seconds for Auto-Enter.

To play multiple speaker pairs in the same Product Group:

1. Ensure the desired speaker Product Group is selected (LED ON).
2. Enter the 1 or 2-digit number of the speaker pair and LPRESS the Product Group key. The window will alternate between speaker pair numbers.

To deselect a speaker pair:

1. Enter the 1 or 2-digit number of the pair to deselect.
2. Press the corresponding Product Group key or wait for Auto-Enter.

To turn off all products in a Product Group:

• Double-click its Select Key, or re-enter the active product number. The Product Group window will display dashes (--) indicating it is available but not active.

Storing and Demonstrating Component Systems

There are three methods to store complete systems:

1. A, B, or C Keys: LPRESS these keys for scratchpad/"flash" memory. Pressing A, B, or C again instantly compares stored systems. Future systems overwrite previous ones.
2. Unused Product Group Select Key: LPRESS an unused key to store the currently playing system. "SY" will appear in the window. Future systems overwrite existing ones.
3. Systems Product Group: Store up to 99 systems. Requires DIP Switch C to be ON. Select the Systems Product Group, enter a 1 or 2-digit system number (e.g., #22), and LPRESS the Systems Product Group's Select Key to store.

Systems stored using A, B, or C keys can be copied to the Systems Product Group to prevent erasure.

To select a stored system from the System Product Group:

1. SELECT the Systems Product Group.
2. Enter the 1 or 2-digit system number.
3. PRESS the Systems Product Group key or wait 2 seconds for Auto-Enter.

About Secure Features

Secure Features enhance system convenience and utility by controlling access, enabling a SLEEP mode, and protecting stored systems. These features are initiated using the SECURE Key. They minimize risks associated with customer access and make "Please Don't Touch" signs unnecessary.

Control is managed via two SECURITY CODES: a MANAGER CODE (Code A) and an OPERATOR CODE (Code B). Codes can be 0-999 or null. The Manager's Code controls system setup parameters, while the Operator's Code restricts customer access. Default codes are: Manager Code A = 999, Operator Code B = null.

Changing Codes:

• Manager Code: Hold the recessed button, short press the A key. The current code appears. Press C to backspace, enter a new 3-digit code, and long-press A to enter. Release the button to exit.
• Operator Code: Hold the recessed button, short press the B key. The current code appears. Press C to backspace, enter a new 3-digit code, and long-press B to enter. Release the button to exit.

All Secure Commands start with the SECURE Key, followed by the feature number. The SECURE Key acts as an "Enter" key. Arrow keys toggle choices. Most functions have a TIMEOUT. DOUBLE-CLICKing the SECURE Key cancels the current command sequence.

Using the Secure Features

Familiarize yourself with SECURE 91 and SECURE 95 first, as they are often prerequisites. Features used frequently have lower numbers for fewer keystrokes.

Key presses are capitalized. Keystrokes are separated by a dot (•). Numbers are indicated by #. An asterisk (*) denotes an optional keystroke.

SECURE 0 – Display Sleep Mode

Initiates a master on/off for the display system. System remains powered but deselected, panel lights off (except pulse LED), 12V power off, and operator input ignored until awakened. Requires Secure 91 ON and 980 System Module POWER switch OFF.

• To Initiate Sleep Mode (OFF): SECURE • 0 • SECURE*
• To Awaken (ON): Press any key. If no Operator Code, system awakens. Otherwise, prompt for Code B. Enter # • # • # • SECURE*.

SECURE 1 – System Lockout

Ignores all operator input from the Control Panel and Product Select Buttons to prevent tampering. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Lockout/Unlock: SECURE • 1 • SECURE*. Toggles between 'ON' (locked) and 'OFF' (unlocked). SECURE* to confirm. "LO" appears when locked. Prompt for Code A or B if needed.

SECURE 2 – Product Group Lockout

Deselects all products in a Product Group and prevents selection from that group. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Lockout a Product Group: Press Select Key of group, then SECURE • 2 • SECURE*. "LO" appears in the window.
• To Unlock a Product Group: Select the locked group, then SECURE • 2 • SECURE*. Prompt for Code A or B if needed.

SECURE 88 – System Hardware Reset

Forces a hardware reset (warm boot) for the control panel, switch modules, and 980 system module. Useful after changing settings.

• To Reset System: SECURE • 8 • 8 • SECURE*

SECURE 89 – Display Software Revision Number

Displays the software revision number in the 3-character window for 2 seconds.

• To Display Revision: SECURE • 8 • 9 • SECURE*

SECURE 91 – Global On/Off for Secure Commands

Provides a master on/off toggle for most secure features. Requires Secure 91 ON to use other Secure Features.

• To Turn Secure Features ON/OFF: SECURE • 9 • 1 • SECURE*. Use arrow keys to toggle between "ON" and "OFF". SECURE* to confirm. Prompt for Code A if needed.

SECURE 92 – Specify a Default System Selection

Automatically activates a 'default' system after a specified period of inactivity. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Specify Default System or Turn OFF: Select desired system, then SECURE • 9 • 2 • SECURE*. "OFF" or minutes will be shown. Use arrow keys to set minutes. Press until "OFF" appears to disable. SECURE* to confirm. Prompt for Code A if needed.

SECURE 96 – Systems Write Protection Feature ON or OFF

Prevents unauthorized changes to stored systems. Overwriting requires Manager Code (A) if ON. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Turn Write Protection ON or OFF: SECURE • 9 • 6 • SECURE*. Use arrow keys to toggle "ON" (enabled) or "OFF" (disabled). SECURE* to confirm. Prompt for Code A if needed.

SECURE 97 – Set System Write Protect Status for Current Selection

Sets write protect status for a single system. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Write Protect/Unprotect Single System: SECURE • 9 • 7 • SECURE*. Use arrow keys to toggle "ON" (enabled) or "OFF" (disabled). SECURE* to confirm. Prompt for Code A if needed.

SECURE 98 – Specify a Range of Systems to Write Protect

Allows specification of a range of systems (1-99) for write protection. Requires Secure 91 ON.

• To Specify Range: SECURE • 9 • 8 • SECURE*. "L##" appears. Use arrow keys for Low number, SECURE*. Use arrow keys for High number, SECURE*. Prompt for Code A if needed.

Using Product Select Buttons (PSBs)

Product Select Buttons (PSBs) offer a user-friendly interface for self-service and enhance merchandising flexibility. PSBs communicate bidirectionally with the Control Panel, confirming selections via their LED and the Control Panel's Product Group window.

PSBs are typically located near the product they select. To use a PSB, PRESS it momentarily. The green LED will light, and the selection will play if source material is available. Pressing another PSB deactivates the previous selection. Pressing a selected PSB again turns the component OFF.

Multiple speaker pairs can be played by adding them to the current selection (maximum pairs depend on installation). To add a pair, LPRESS the PSB for that speaker set. To deselect a pair, PRESS its PSB.

Product Select Buttons: Each button is a momentary switch with an LED indicator, connected via a four-pin cable. Audio Authority offers various button styles and colors.

Troubleshooting

Two common conditions can cause system malfunctions:

1. Switching Modules that are not properly addressed.
2. Improperly connected buses (system bus, high-level bus, low-level bus).

These issues can confuse the Control Panel, preventing communication with modules. All module addresses and bus networks must be correctly set during installation. Refer to the Installation Manual for details on module addresses and bus connections. Self-diagnostic tests are on page 6.

If you encounter difficulties during installation, contact Audio Authority for assistance.

Definition of Terms

To successfully install your Access Demonstration Network, familiarize yourself with these terms:

• Active: A Component or Product Group currently selected to play, part of the signal path. Displayed as a 2-digit number in its Product Group window.
• Address: A number identifying a switch module's location and identity. Set by the installer for proper sequence.
• Bus: A pathway for signals between modules. Types include:
  • System Bus: A four-wire harness (red, black, yellow, blue) for control signals and housekeeping functions.
  • Speaker Bus (High-level Bus): A four-wire harness (green, white, brown, gray) for speaker-level signals.
  • Low-level Bus: Uses RCA patch cables for low-level audio signals between source modules and amplifiers/equalizers.
• Control Panel: Provides central control and display capabilities (e.g., 903, 906G, third-party Touchscreen). Operates with Product Select Buttons.
• Component: Merchandise or products connected to the switching system.
• Double-Click: Pressing a key twice rapidly for alternate functions, like turning off a Product Group.
• Hold: Pressing and holding a key while pressing others (e.g., "Shift").
• Lpress: Pressing and holding a key until a beep (approx. 0.5 seconds) to store values or selections.
• Module: A basic Access™ System component (Switching, Expander, System Module).
• Press: A momentary press and release of a key for primary functions.
• Product Group or Group: A collection of similar components (e.g., DVD players, amplifiers). The 903 Panel supports eight groups with up to 99 components each.
• Product Select Button (PSB): A push-button near a product that selects it for demonstration, confirmed by an LED.
• Selected Product Group: The group currently targeted for keypad input, indicated by its red LED.
• SilenTouch™: Mutes sound briefly during switching to eliminate transient noises.
• System: A network of interconnected modules controlled by panels/PSBs, or a configuration of products playing together.
• Timeout: Automatic termination of an incomplete command after a set time, restoring the control panel's previous state.

ACCESS™ WARRANTY

Limited Warranty

Audio Authority® Corporation guarantees to replace any defective Access™ product within five years of purchase due to materials or workmanship, at no cost. This warranty excludes products damaged, altered, abused, misused, or improperly installed.

Warranty Service Procedures

If a product defect is suspected, contact the Audio Authority Technical Service Department at 800-322-8346 or 859-233-4599. If a defect is confirmed, a replacement product will be shipped prepaid via UPS on a defect-exchange basis, with a Return Authorization number issued. The replacement is invoiced and secured via bank card, then credited upon inspection of the returned defective product. Returns must be freight prepaid. Alternatively, customers with established accounts can be invoiced, or COD transactions may be handled.

Defects Within the First 30 Days

Replacements for products found defective within 30 days of sale will be shipped via overnight courier, freight paid by Audio Authority.

Out of Warranty Service

Out-of-warranty products can be returned for repair at the current labor rate (1-hour minimum) plus parts and return freight. Repairs typically ship within two working days. Payment is via bank card or COD. Defect exchange is also available, with the customer invoiced at dealer cost, and a partial refund or credit issued upon inspection of the returned defective product.

For future reference, please record:

Date of Purchase: ___/___/___ Invoice No: __________________

Index

• A, B, or C keys: Store systems (9)
• A/B/C comparison keys: (4)
• Address: Definition (15)
• Active: Definition (15)
• Awaken from Display Sleep Mode: (11)
• Blinking numeric displays on 903: (6)
• bUS flashing in EVC window: (6)
• Changing the Manager's Code: (10)
• "coA" appears on display: (12)
• Codes, Operator and Manager: (12)
• Component: Definition (15)
• Configuration DIP switch activation: (5)
• Configuration DIP Switches: (5)
• Customer access and Secure Features: (10)
• Default System Selection, Secure 92: (12)
• Definitions of Terms: (15)
• Demo Mode: (5)
• Deselect the ACTIVE product: (8)
• Deselect the Product Group: (8)
• DIP switch activation: (5)
• DIP Switches: (5)
• Display Sleep Mode: (11)
• Display Software Revision Number, Secure 89: (12)
• Display Window: (4)
• Double-Click, definition: (16)
• DOUBLE-CLICK of the UP/DOWN Keys: (8)
• Duplicate addresses: (7)
• Feedback (beep): (5)
• Flashing numeric displays: (7)
• Global On/Off, Secure 91: (12)
• GROUP, definition: (16)
• Group Lockout, Secure 2: (11)
• HOLD, definition: (15)
• Index: (18)
• Keypad: (9)
• Labels for Product Group Windows: (8)
• LO in Product Group window: (11)
• Lockout Product Group, Secure 2: (11)
• Lockout System, Secure 1: (11)
• LPRESS, definition: (15)
• Manager's Code: (12)
• Module count on 903: (7)
• multiple pairs of speakers playing simultaneously: (8)
• Operator's Code: (12)
• PC/Touchscreen control: (5)
• Power-up: (6)
• preprogrammed systems: (8)
• Press, definition: (16)
• Previous Selection Key: (5)
• Product Group, definition: (16)
• Product Group Lockout, Secure 2: (17)
• Product Group Section: (4)
• Product Select Buttons: (14)
• PSB, Product Select Button: (14)
• Reset System, Secure 88: (12)
• SECURE key: (9)
• Secure features (about): (10)
• Selecting Products: (8)
• Selecting products with PSBs: (14)
• Selection Keypad: (9)
• SilenTouch™ circuit indicator: (4)
• Sleep Mode, Secure 0: (11)
• Software Revision Number: (12)
• Software version: (6)
• Starting the System: (6)
• Storing Component Systems: (9)
• Switch Module, definition: (16)
• Switches A through H: (5)
• SY in the Product Group window: (9)
• System Bus, definition: (15)
• System Bus Test: (6)
• System Hardware Reset, Secure 88: (12)
• System Lockout, Secure 1: (13)
• Systems Product Group: (8)
• Systems Product Group activation: (5)
• Systems Write Protection, Secure 96: (13)
• Test Sequence: (6)
• TIMEOUT and Secure functions: (10)
• TIMEOUT, definition: (17)
• Training Mode: (5)
• Troubleshooting: (15)
• Turn off products: (8)
• Unused Product Group Select Key to store systems: (8)
• UP and DOWN arrow keys: (4, 9)
• Wake-up from Sleep mode: (11)
• Write Protect a range of systems: (13)
• Write Protect a Range of Systems, Secure 98: (13)
• Write Protect for Current Selection, Secure 97: (13)
• Write Protection Feature, Secure 96: (13)
• Yellow/red/blue/black cable: (6)