Federal Signal HighLighter® Elite

Introduction

The HighLighter® Elite is an LED warning light with a compact size and low current draw. It is available in permanent, magnetic, or suction cup mounts. The light offers three operating modes, 25 selectable flash patterns, and an optional low power function.

Safety Information

Important Safety Messages for Installers of Warning Light Equipment

⚠️ Attention

The safety of individuals depends on the proper installation and maintenance of Federal Signal products. It is crucial to read and follow all instructions provided with this product and the original vehicle. The following are important safety instructions and precautions:

Qualifications

To properly install or service this device, you must have a thorough understanding of automotive mechanics, electrical systems, and the installation and operation of safety warning equipment. Always refer to the vehicle's service manuals when installing any equipment on it.

Light Hazards

⚠️ Attention

For this product to be an effective warning device, it emits a bright light that may be hazardous to vision when viewed from a close distance. Do not look directly at the light source of this product from a close distance, as it may cause permanent eye damage.

Installation Location

Do not install the lighting system in a location that may obstruct, impair, or blind the driver's vision. Ensure the lighting system is installed in a position outside the driver's field of view so that the vehicle can be operated safely.

Power Sources and Light Heads

Federal Signal power sources and light heads are designed to work together as a system. Combining light heads and power sources from different manufacturers may reduce the effectiveness of the lighting system and may cause component damage. Verify component compatibility or test them to ensure they work together and comply with federal, local, and state standards or guidelines.

Electrical Hazards

⚠️ Attention

The lighting system is a high-current system. For the system to operate correctly, separate negative (-) and positive (+) connections must be established. All negative connections must be connected to the battery's negative terminal, and a suitable fuse must be installed on the positive terminal connection near the battery. Ensure all wiring and fuses are rated appropriately to handle the electrical requirements of the device and system.

General Installation Precautions

• Never attempt to install aftermarket accessories that are wired into the vehicle without consulting the manufacturer's wiring diagram. Ensure the installation will not affect vehicle operation or mandatory safety functions or circuits. Always ensure the vehicle operates properly after installation.
• Do not mount a radio antenna within 18 inches of the light system. Placing the antenna close to the light system may cause the light system to malfunction or be damaged by strong radio frequency fields. Radio antenna placement near the light system may also cause radio frequency interference from the light system to affect radio transmitter reception and reduce radio reception.
• Never attempt to wash this device or any other electrical device while it is connected to a power source. Exposure to liquids while the product is connected to a power source may result in electric shock and personal injury, and may cause a short circuit and damage the product.

During Installation and Service

• Do not allow metal shavings to enter the product. Metal shavings in the product may cause the system to malfunction. If drilling is necessary near the unit, place a certified electrostatic discharge cover over the unit. Inspect the unit after installation to ensure no shavings are inside or near it.
• To prevent battery explosion, always disconnect the negative battery cable first, then reconnect it last. Avoid causing sparks when connecting near or to the battery. Gases produced by the battery can cause a battery explosion, which may result in vehicle damage and serious injury.
• Do not connect this system to the vehicle battery until all other electrical connections are complete, all components are installed, and no short circuits are present. If wires are connected to the vehicle chassis or frame, high-current conductors can cause dangerous sparks, which may lead to electrical fires or molten metal ejection.
• Do not install equipment or route wires or power cords in the path of an airbag deployment.
• If a vehicle seat is temporarily removed, consult the vehicle manufacturer to determine if the seat requires recalibration for proper airbag deployment.
• Before installing any components, consult the manual to ensure the component you are installing is suitable for use in that area of the vehicle. Many components are not suitable for use in the engine compartment or other areas exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
• When drilling into the vehicle chassis, ensure that both sides of the surface are clear of any obstructions that could be damaged. Remove all burrs from drilled holes. To prevent short circuits, seal all drilled holes through which wires pass. Ensure that mounting hardware does not cause any electrical or mechanical damage to the vehicle.
• Refer to the instruction sheet provided with the light system for proper electrical connections, additional precautions, and information.
• Magnetic Mount Warning: Do not operate a vehicle with a magnetic mount warning light, as vehicle roof structures and driving conditions vary. The light may detach from the vehicle, causing injury or damage. The user assumes sole responsibility for any damage resulting from ignoring this warning.
• Locate the system's control elements on the light bar so that the vehicle and controls can be operated safely under all driving conditions.

After Installation or Service

• After installation, test the light system to ensure it is operating properly.
• If a seat was temporarily removed, consult the vehicle manufacturer to determine if the seat requires recalibration for proper airbag deployment.
• Test all vehicle functions, including horn operation, vehicle safety functions, and vehicle lighting systems, to ensure they are operating properly. Ensure that the installation has not affected vehicle operation or any safety function or circuit.
• Scratched or faded reflectors, mirrors, or lenses reduce the effectiveness of the lighting system. Avoid excessive pressure and the use of caustic cleaners or petroleum-based products when cleaning the lighting system. Replace any optical components that may be scratched or cracked during system installation.
• Do not attempt to activate or deactivate the light system control during a critical driving situation.
• Regularly inspect the light system to ensure it is functioning properly and is securely mounted to the vehicle.
• After installation and testing are complete, provide a copy of these instructions to the training team and all operating personnel.
• Store these instructions in a safe place and refer to them when servicing or reinstalling the product.
• Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may result in property damage, serious injury, or death.
• Keep these messages and refer to them.

Introduction

The HighLighter® Elite is an LED warning light with a compact size and low current draw. It is available in permanent, magnetic, or suction cup mounts. The light offers three operating modes, 25 selectable flash patterns, and an optional low power function.

Light Bar Removal

After unpacking the light bar, inspect it for any shipping damage. If damaged, do not attempt to install or operate it. Immediately file a claim with the shipping company, detailing the extent of the damage. Carefully inspect all packaging, shipping labels, and tags before removing or discarding them. Verify that the parts listed in Table 1 are present in the package. If any parts are missing, contact Customer Support at 1-800-264-3578, Monday through Friday, between 7 AM and 5 PM Central Time.

Table 1: Kit Contents

Preparing for Light Bar Installation

Locate Mounting Position and Route Wires

For wiring instructions, refer to "Wiring the HighLighter Elite" on page 17.

To prepare for installation:

• Ensure the battery voltage matches the light bar's voltage rating.
• Ensure the light bar and mounting hardware are suitable for the vehicle.
• Determine the mounting location for the light bar on the vehicle.

⚠️ Attention

Operator Control Location: Control buttons for the lighting system must be placed in a safe location that allows for easy vehicle operation and control in all driving conditions.

⚠️ Attention

Airbag Deployment: Do not install equipment or route wires in the path of an airbag deployment. Failure to comply with this warning will reduce the effectiveness of the airbag or may cause it to deploy improperly, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

• Identify wire routing around airbag areas.
• Identify routing for the power wire and ground wire from the light bar.

⚠️ Attention

Seat Removal Precautions: If a vehicle seat is temporarily removed, consult the vehicle manufacturer to determine if the seat requires recalibration for proper airbag deployment. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or death.

• To facilitate wiring connections, remove seats and the spare tire, then pull down the headliner as needed.
• Disconnect all electronic device wiring from two-way radio equipment wiring.

❗ Warning

Installation Precautions: The warning system and/or two-way radio may not function correctly if a radio antenna is mounted on or within 18 inches of the light bar. Before permanently installing the light bar or two-way radio antenna, test the warning system and two-way radio. Some installations may require relocating the two-way radio antenna to the trunk or rear deck. Do not drill holes in the light bar or attach auxiliary devices to the light bar, as this may cause the warning system to fail.

• To avoid interference, keep two-way radio antennas at least 18 inches (45.7 cm) away from the warning device.
• Where possible, route wires to their full length. Do not solder wires.

Magnetic and Suction Cup Mount Installation

• Do not loop excess wire. Leave a drip loop for the light bar.
• After drilling holes for wires, remove burrs from them, smooth the sharp edges, and insert grommets to protect the wires from abrasion.
• For chassis grounding, use the grounding points provided by the vehicle manufacturer.

Important: After installation, frequently inspect the light bar and mounting feet to ensure all mounting hardware and brackets are securely fastened.

⚠️ Attention

Magnetic Mount Driving Warning: Do not operate a vehicle with a magnetic mount warning light. Vehicle roof structures and driving conditions vary. The light may detach from the vehicle, causing injury or damage. The user assumes sole responsibility for any damage resulting from ignoring this warning.

⚠️ Attention

Proper Magnetic Mounting: The strength of magnetic mounting systems depends on the smoothness, flatness, and steel thickness of the mounting surface. Therefore, to ensure proper magnetic mounting:

• Keep the mounting surface and magnets clean, dry, and free of any debris that could impede good contact between the surfaces.
• Ensure the mounting surface is flat.
• Do not use magnetic mounts on vinyl-covered surfaces.

To install the HighLighter Elite:

1. Position the light bar assembly on the vehicle roof in a location that offers maximum signal effectiveness for your application.
2. For suction cup models, release trapped air by pressing down on the top of the dome while pulling up on the release tabs.
3. To operate the magnetic or suction cup mount light bar assembly, insert the plug from the cable assembly into the auxiliary power socket. Turn on the power using the power switch on the plug. A test light will illuminate to indicate power is on.
4. To remove suction cup models, pull up on the release tabs while lifting the light bar.

Permanent HighLighter® Elite Installation

Mounting the Light Bar on a Flat Surface

To permanently mount the HighLighter Elite on a flat surface:

1. Attach the mounting bracket to the bottom of the light bar using the provided hi-low screws. See Figure 1.

Figure 1: Surface Mount

[Diagram: Shows the mounting bracket attached to the base of the light bar using hi-low screws (#10). Labels include "hi-low screws #10", "Bracket", and "Light Bar".]

2. Using the mounting bracket as a template, mark the locations for the four (4) mounting holes.

❗ Warning

Drilling Precautions: When drilling holes, check the area to ensure no vehicle components are damaged. Remove burrs from all drilled holes and smooth all sharp edges. Protect all wire paths through drilled holes with a grommet or split loom tubing.

3. Drill holes of appropriate size for the #10 hardware provided by the installer.
4. Refer to "Wiring the HighLighter Elite" on page 17 for wiring connections.
5. Connect the supplied connector to the bottom of the light bar. See Figure 2.

Figure 2: Light Bar Connection

[Diagram: Shows the wiring harness connector being plugged into the base of the light bar.]

6. Mount the light bar onto the mounting surface using the #10 hardware provided by the installer.

Mounting the Light Bar on a Flat Bar

To permanently mount the HighLighter Elite on a flat bar:

1. Using the bracket as a template, mark two (2) locations for the 1/4-20 square-head bolts provided by the installer.

❗ Warning

Drilling Precautions: When drilling holes, check the area to ensure no vehicle components are damaged. Remove burrs from all drilled holes and smooth all sharp edges. Protect all wire paths through drilled holes with a grommet or split loom tubing.

2. Drill two 17/64-inch holes at the marked locations.
3. Insert the square-head bolts into the bracket and attach to the bottom of the light bar using the provided hi-low screws. See Figure 3.

Figure 3: Bracket Assembly

[Diagram: Shows the bracket assembly for a flat bar mount. Labels include "square-head bolts 1/4-20 provided by installer", "hi-low screws #10", and "Light Bar".]

4. Refer to "Wiring the HighLighter Elite" on page 17 for wiring connections.
5. Connect the supplied connector to the bottom of the light bar. See Figure 4.

Figure 4: Light Bar Connection

[Diagram: Shows the wiring harness connector being plugged into the base of the light bar.]

6. Mount the light bar onto the mounting surface using the 1/4-20 square-head bolts provided by the installer and associated hardware. See Figure 3 on page 15.

HighLighter Elite Wiring

❗ Warning

High Current Device: This is a high-current system. For the system to operate correctly, separate negative (-) and positive (+) connections must be established. All negative connections must be connected to the battery's negative terminal, and a suitable 2-amp fuse must be installed on the positive terminal connection near the battery. Ensure all wiring and fuses are rated appropriately to handle the electrical requirements of the system.

The permanent HighLighter Elite mount includes a 12-inch wire harness. Use at least 18 AWG wire and installer-provided connectors. For lengths over 15 feet (5 meters), use 16 AWG wire.

Table 2: Wiring Connections

To wire the HighLighter® Elite:

1. Identify required functions and wire lengths. A five-conductor cable can be used for a full-featured system. For lengths up to 15 feet (5 meters), use 18 AWG wire. For lengths over 15 feet, use 16 AWG wire. Before connecting device wires, refer to Table 2 for each wire's function.
2. Strip 4/1 inch (6 mm) of insulation from the ends of the installer-provided wires.
3. Use the insulated terminal connectors provided by the installer to connect the wires to the Elite system power cable. Ensure connectors are securely fastened and properly insulated.
4. Connect the fuse holder to the positive terminal of the power source.
5. Connect the black (-) wire of the Elite system to a known vehicle ground as close to the light as possible. The black wire is the ground wire and must be connected to a suitable ground chassis if direct connection to the battery negative terminal is not possible.
6. The green wire has two functions: it is the trigger wire for FSLink™-equipped products and the pattern programming wire.
7. The red wire powers the device in Function 1 when connected to a switched positive source. Function 1 is defaulted to Single/Dual/Quad pattern (Pattern 1).
8. The white wire powers the device in Function 2 when connected to a switched positive source. If Function 1 is active, Function 2 takes precedence. Function 2 is defaulted to Steady (Pattern 10).
9. The brown wire powers the device in Function 3 when connected to a switched positive source. If Function 1 or 2 is active, Function 3 takes precedence. Function 3 is defaulted to Cruise (Pattern 7).

HighLighter Elite Configuration

If you want to change the default function settings of the Elite, perform the following steps.

Note: For models with a plug-in harness instead of a wire harness, the device can still be configured, but fewer options are available. The device has a Function 1 switch (with LED indicator) and a programming switch (blank). Where steps refer to applying power to the green wire, press the programming switch instead. Functions 2 and 3 are not available.

Setting Flash Patterns

⚠️ Attention

Light Hazard: This product contains a high-intensity LED. To avoid permanent eye damage, do not stare into the light beam at close range.

Setting the flash pattern from the device's internal library of flash patterns is optional. This should be done during installation. For available flash patterns, see Table 3 on page 22.

To set the flash pattern:

1. Select Function 1 (red wire), Function 2 (white wire), or Function 3 (brown wire).
2. Apply power (12-24 VDC) to this wire.
3. To activate FSLink™, tap the green wire to 12-24 VDC until the desired pattern is reached. For magnetic mounted light bars, you can tap the momentary switch instead of the green wire.

Note: When tapping the green wire to change patterns, do not keep the power connected for longer than one second, or other device features will change.

Setting Synchronization or Alternation

When setting up devices for synchronization, never operate them without a ground connection. If the ground connection is poor, the unit will operate erratically, and the warranty will be void. Check all connections routinely to ensure they are secure.

The device can synchronize with other Elite devices. It will flash simultaneously with other Elite lights or alternate its flash timing. This feature can be set separately for Function 1, Function 2, or Function 3.

To synchronize a selected flash pattern:

1. Activate the desired Function (1, 2, or 3).
2. Apply the green wire to the positive voltage source and hold it until the light flashes twice, then release. The light will change from its initial setting to the corresponding setting. "Flash with" will change to "Alternate" or vice versa.
3. For synchronization, after setup, connect the green wires together.

For this feature to work, connect all green wires permanently after configuring all lights in the system.

Setting Single Color or Dual Color

The device can be set to flash a single color or dual colors. This can be set separately for Function 1, 2, or 3.

To set a single color or dual colors:

1. Activate the Function you want to set the color feature for.
2. Connect the green wire to the power source and hold it until the light flashes three times, then release.
3. The device will cycle through Single Color, Secondary Color, and Dual Color settings.

Setting Color Order

You can set the order in which the light flashes. This is set separately for Function 1, 2, or 3.

To set the color order:

1. Activate the Function you want to set the color feature for.
2. Connect the green wire to the positive voltage source until the light flashes four times, then release the wire. The device will cycle through colors from the initial setting to its reverse. For example, a dual-color Amber/Red set to flash Amber then Red will change to flash Red then Amber. A dual-color Amber/Red set to single color Amber will change to Amber.

Setting Dimming Mode

The device can be set to operate in dimming mode. This can be set separately for Function 1, 2, or 3.

To activate dimming mode:

1. Activate the Function you want to set this feature for.
2. Connect the green wire to the positive voltage source until the light flashes six times, then release the wire. The mode will change from its initial setting to the corresponding setting. The default setting is "Dim Mode," and vice versa. Changing the pattern will reset the dimming mode to off.

Alternatively, dimming mode can be activated in Function 1 or 2 by setting Function 3 to Pattern 26 (Dimming Mode) and operating Function 3 simultaneously with Function 1 or Function 2.

Note: When setting Pattern 10 (Steady), the dimming mode function will cycle through three settings: Normal, Dim, and Steady.

Resetting the Device to Default Settings

To reset the device to default settings, connect power to the green wire while Function 1, Function 2, or Function 3 is active. Hold the wire to the power source until the light flashes seven times, then remove power.

Note: No change will occur if power is disconnected from the green wire after the seventh pulse has ended.

Table 3: Flash Patterns

*Pattern 1 is the default for Function 1.

**Pattern 10 is the default for Function 2.

***Pattern 7 is the default for Function 3.

Getting Technical Support

For technical support, contact:

Federal Signal Corporation

Phone: 1-800-433-9132

Email: empserviceinfo@fedsig.com

Ordering Parts

To order parts, contact Customer Service at 1-800-264-3578, Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM CT, or contact your nearest distributor.

Table 4: Parts - Permanent Mount

Table 5: Parts - Magnetic Suction Cup Mount

Table 6: Parts - Magnetic Mount

Getting Service

Federal Signal provides technical assistance for issues that cannot be resolved locally.

A Return Material Authorization (RMA) must accompany any units returned to Federal Signal for service, inspection, or repair. Obtain an RMA from your local distributor or manufacturer's representative. Provide a brief description of the required service or nature of the defect.

Address all correspondence to:

Federal Signal Corporation
Service Department
2645 Federal Signal Drive
University Park IL 60484-3167

Federal Signal
Safety and Security Systems
Federal Signal Drive 2645
University Park, Illinois 60484
www.fedsig.com

Customer Support
Police, Fire - Emergency Services: +1 708 534-3400 • 800-264-3578
Work Truck: +1 708 534-3400 • 800-824-0254
Technical Support: +1 708 534-3400 • 800-433-9132