Installer's Reference Guide

Introduction to Series 1500 Intercom Systems

The Series 1500 Intercom systems provide clear two-way communications for retail service businesses. They can integrate two-way video with high-performance audio, offering a complete intercommunication solution over a single Category 5/6/7 UTP cable. The versatile Model 1500B counter station supports up to 12 lanes. Lane stations can connect directly to a counter station for one-on-one systems, or multiple stations can be networked using an Audio Authority intercom hub.

Model 1509B and 1509BV mini hubs are designed for two-on-four intercom systems, while A-V system hubs can support up to eight counter stations across 12 lanes. Video communication is easily added with a Model 1502 two-way video display for counter stations, or via separate cameras and displays, or Audio Authority video customer stations for lane video.

Series III Compatibility with Legacy 1500 Systems

The 1500B and other Series III components are designed to work with recent legacy systems. However, certain features may not be compatible. When a 'B' version is mentioned, assume the 'A' version is also compatible unless otherwise noted.

For more information, visit: www.audioauthority.com/page/intercom_faq

System Components

*See pages 15 and 16 for hub configurations.

Special Tools & Supplies

• Cat 5 network cable tester
• RJ-45 plug crimping tool (Audio Authority recommends EZ-RJ Pro crimp tool)
• Category 5e or 6 UTP cable and RJ-45 terminations (Audio Authority recommends EZ-RJ-45 connectors)
• 18mm flare nut wrench for gooseneck mic installation
• Model 1550A Installer Setup Display

Installation Procedures

1-on-1 Audio or A-V Installation

This configuration connects a single counter station directly to one lane station, supporting audio-only or audio-video setups. A Cat 5 cable runs from the counter to the lane. A separate camera and monitor can be connected to a 1520B, or the integrated 1527AVB can be used. Refer to page 11 for detailed instructions.

Note: Firmware upgrades in systems without a hub require temporary connection of a hub and the 1550A to the counter station.

Diagram Description (Figure 1): Illustrates a single counter station (Model 1500B) connected via Cat 5 cable to a lane station. An optional audio-video counter station (Model 1502B) is shown, connected to a 2-way video customer station (Model 1527AVB). The diagram emphasizes using shielded Cat 6 cable for maximum audio fidelity.

1-on-2 Audio Installation

This audio-only configuration connects a single audio counter station to two lanes using a Cat 6 cable. The dual lane station (Model 1522B) can be placed indoors or in a sheltered outdoor location. Wiring to lane devices should be protected, or a multi-conductor cable should be used. The 1522B model does not support video.

Note: Firmware upgrades in systems without a hub require temporary connection of a hub and the 1550A to the counter station.

Diagram Description (Figure 2): Shows a single audio counter station (Model 1500B) connected to two lanes via a dual lane station (Model 1522B). The diagram details connections for microphone, speaker, call button, traffic sensing, remote control relay, and handset for each lane, emphasizing shielded Cat 6 cable use.

2-on-4 Audio Installation (Audio Mini Hub)

The Model 1509B audio mini hub supports one or two Model 1500B counter stations serving up to four Model 1520B lane stations. Cat 5 cables connect each counter station to the hub, and the hub to each lane station. Custom key assignments are possible via the 1550A installer setup tool.

Diagram Description (Figure 3): Depicts a Model 1509B audio mini-hub connecting two Model 1500B counter stations to two Model 1520B lane stations. It shows power connections and emphasizes using shielded Cat 6 cable for optimal audio fidelity.

2-on-4 Video and Audio Installation (Video Mini Hub)

The Model 1509BV A-V mini hub connects one or two Model 1500B counter stations to up to four Model 1520B lane stations via Cat 5 cable. Custom key assignments are available through the 1550A installer setup tool. Separate cameras and monitors can be connected via BNC ports on the 1520B.

Diagram Description (Figure 4): Illustrates a Model 1509BV A-V mini-hub connecting two Model 1500B counter stations to two Model 1520B lane stations. It includes connections for a 2-way video monitor (Model 1527VB) and emphasizes using shielded Cat 6 cable.

Cat 5/6 Cable Fabrication

Terminate Cat 5e/6 cables with RJ-45 modular plugs using the EIA 568B pinout (pairs 1-2, 3-6, 4-5, and 7-8). Pre-made network cables can be used for shorter runs. All cables should be tested with a network cable tester.

Diagram Description (Figure 12): Shows the EIA 568B pinout for Cat 5e/6 cables, illustrating the correct wire color order for RJ-45 terminations. It specifies that cables are wired the same on both ends (not crossed over) and shows the RJ-45 plug orientation.

Installing 1500B Counter Stations

1. Unpack the Model 1500B counter station. If applicable, install a Model 1502B video display and connect its Cat 5 video cable to the matching port on the 1500B.
2. Attach the field-replaceable microphone, securing it with the 18mm flare nut wrench and ensuring the rubber boot is firmly in place.
3. Connect the Cat 5 cable from the hub to the hub port on the 1500B and plug in the power supply.
4. Pry open the keypad cover and install desired key colors. Upon initial power-up, the hub automatically sets the default key layout based on connected stations. Blank chips should fill non-active positions.

Diagram Description (Figure 5): Shows the physical layout of the 1500B counter station, highlighting the gooseneck microphone connection, power supply input, headset/hub port (RJ9), and video display connection port.

Diagram Description (Figure 6): Illustrates default key assignments for various lane configurations (Single Lane, 1522, 1509/1510, 1511). Key assignments can be customized using the 1550A setup tool.

Installing 1502B Video Monitor

The 1502B video monitor enhances customer stations with 2-way video capability and is compatible with 1500A and 1500B models.

Mounting

• Connect the cable to the counter station's video port.
• Install rear mounting screws, but do not fully tighten until the third bottom screw is in place. Use only the short screw provided for the 1502B to avoid damage.

Digital Camera Tilt

The camera view can be adjusted digitally using the Mirror key, followed by Camera Up/Down keys.

Monitor Tilt Control

The monitor tilt can be adjusted manually. A hex wrench can tighten the mount if it doesn't hold position.

Monitor Height Position

Monitor height can be adjusted by removing four rear screws and repositioning the bracket. Do not remove any set screw present.

Installing Model 1503B Handset Cradle

The 1500B counter stations can be fitted with a handset cradle. Connect the included handset to the handset port on the underside of the counter station. Handset volume can be adjusted via the 1550A tool or the recessed TX/RX knobs on the cradle. The wall-mounted 1503BW cradle follows similar installation steps.

Diagram Description (Figure 7): Shows the underside of a 1500B counter station with the 1503B handset cradle attached, illustrating the connection of the handset and the cradle's mounting screws.

Installing Model 1520B Lane Stations

The Model 1520B is a basic lane station for drive-up or walk-up systems, housing the microphone and speaker separately. It can also accommodate a video screen and camera. The Model 1527AVB video lane station integrates these features. The 1527VB video monitor requires a 1520B and includes a camera and screen but no audio. Connection is via Cat 5/6 cable (20 ft. or less).

1. Install the 1520B lane station in the deal drawer or pneumatic unit using provided screws. If AC power is unavailable, see Step 5.
2. Install the lane microphone and speaker. Mount speakers in grilles. The 631-055 water-resistant microphone fits a 3/4 inch hole. Position mic and speaker apart for optimal speech reception. Connect the microphone cable. Install teller call button if needed.
3. Connect mic, speaker, and teller call switch to the 1520B terminal block. Strip wires to 1/4". Connect DRY blower contacts for muting and traffic sensors/security doors as indicated.
4. For video installations, connect 75-ohm NTSC cameras/monitors to the 1520B video jacks or a Model 1527VB customer video display to the Video port. Connect power supplies.
5. Plug lane power supplies into a 100-240V AC source. If AC power is unavailable at the location, extend indoor power supply leads using appropriate gauge wire. Contact Audio Authority Technical Support for powering multiple units.

Diagram Description (Figure 10): Details the Model 1520B lane station, showing terminal connections for microphone, speaker, call button, traffic sense, blower, relay control, and handset. It also indicates connections for monitor, camera, and customer video display, and the use of Cat 5/6 cable. A table provides recommended AWG for power supply leads based on distance.

Installing Model 1522B Dual Lane Stations

The Model 1522B dual lane station is installed in the deal drawer, under the counter, or in a drive-up cabinet. If AC power is unavailable, refer to Step 4.

1. Install the 1522B lane station in the desired location.
2. Install lane mic and speaker, mounting speakers in grilles. The 631-055 microphone fits a 3/4 inch hole. Position mic and speaker apart for optimal speech reception. Connect the microphone cable. Install teller call button if needed.
3. Use a separately shielded conductor for microphone connections beyond 6 ft. Connect DRY blower contacts for muting and traffic sensors/security doors as indicated.
4. Plug the 1522B power supply into a 100-240V AC source. If AC power is unavailable, extend indoor power supply leads using appropriate gauge wire.

1520B and 1522B Wiring Notes:

• Use separately shielded cable for microphone connections beyond 6 feet for audio quality.
• Connect the lane station Common terminal to a reliable ground.
• Connect the Drain Wire to the Common terminal and trim the other end.
• N.O. (Normally Open) contacts are used for devices like door latches or solenoids operated from the counter station.

Diagram Description (Figure 11): Shows the Model 1522B dual lane station with audio connections, detailing terminal blocks for microphone, speaker, call button, traffic sense, blower, relay control, and handset for both lanes. It also shows connections for a traffic sensor and power.

Hub Installation and Configuration

Installing Mini Hubs (1509B, 1509BV)

The Model 1509B and 1509BV are mini hubs supporting up to two counter stations and four lane stations. Install the hub in a dry, secure location. Ground the hub to a nearby electrical outlet cover. Run Cat 5 cables from counter and lane stations to the hub, verifying terminations with a cable tester. Apply hub power last and adjust volume during system testing.

Diagram Description (Figure 8): Illustrates the Model 1509BV video hub, showing connections for counter and lane stations, LED indicators, and an SD card slot for firmware and system settings. It highlights minimum connections for a 1-on-2 system and recommends shielded Cat 6 for audio.

Installing A-V System Hubs (1510, 1511, 1512)

Position and install the hub in a secure indoor location, grounding it to a nearby electrical outlet cover. Capacity can be increased by adding counter or lane cards (see page 16). Run Cat 5 cables from stations to the hub, verifying terminations. Connect other equipment as needed. Apply power to the hub last.

Diagram Description (Figure 9): Shows the Model 1510B A-V hub configuration, detailing slots for counter station cards (1515B), lane station cards (1516B), and the system card (1517A). It includes connections for power supply and an SD card slot.

A-V System Hub Model 1510

The Model 1510A A-V hub supports up to four counter stations and four lane stations, expandable with additional cards. System settings can be stored on an SD card for security and firmware upgrades. Composite video and stereo analog audio inputs allow for playing advertising content when customers are on hold or the lane is idle. Direct outputs are available for surveillance recording.

Diagram Description (Figure 14): Details the Model 1510A A-V system hub, showing expansion slots for counter (1515B) and lane (1516B) cards, the system card (1517A), and various connection points for cameras, monitors, and audio sources. It explains LED indicators for communication status and system processing.

Hub Configurations and Capacity

The A-V hub can be configured for maximum capacity. To increase station capacity, power down the hub, remove blank faceplates from card slots, insert new cards, secure them with screws, and connect stations. Then, reapply power and test the system.

Diagram Description (Figure 15): Illustrates the Model 1512 A-V system hub with its maximum capacity configuration, showing the placement of counter (1515B) and lane (1516B) cards, and the system card (1517A), along with card slot options and requirements.

Operation

The Series 1500 Intercom is operated via touch-sensitive keys on the Model 1500B counter station keypad. Tasks like answering calls, ending calls, and placing customers on hold are detailed in the Operator Guide (page 14).

Counter Station Keypad Functions:

• Lane Keys: Used to select lanes (e.g., Lane 1, Lane 2).
• CAMERA UP/DOWN: Tilts the lane camera up or down if video is installed.
• MIRROR: Shows the counter station camera video to the operator in two-way video systems.
• SETUP: Select ringtones, ring volume, and handset/headset volume.
• VOLUME UP/DOWN: Adjusts customer voice volume in the counter station speaker or headset/handset.
• HOLD: Places a lane on hold. If program audio is installed, the customer hears music or messages. Touch the Lane Key again to resume. Holding the HOLD key can operate a relay.
• PRIVACY LIGHT: Illuminates when a wireless headset or handset is active.
• PRIVACY: Switches between the speaker/gooseneck mic and the wireless headset (not used with handset).

Operating Remote Devices

The 1520 can operate a remote latch or door via the 1500B keypad. The system can be configured for two modes: the device is active whenever the lane is selected (Option 1), or the device is activated by touching and holding the HOLD key when the lane is active (Option 2).

Using a Wireless Headset or Handset

The 1500B supports built-in speaker/mic, the 1503B handset, and optional wireless headsets. Deactivate wireless headsets between interactions to conserve battery life.

• Answering a Call: Use speaker/gooseneck mic (touch flashing lane key), handset (pick up handset, touch key), or wireless headset (activate headset, touch PRIVACY, select lane).
• Putting a Call on HOLD: Touch HOLD for speaker/gooseneck mic or wireless headset. For handset, touch HOLD then hang up.
• Picking Up a Call from HOLD: Touch the blinking lane key for speaker/gooseneck mic. For handset, touch blinking lane key and pick up handset. For wireless headset, activate headset and select blinking lane key.

Note: The Sennheiser D 10 is the only currently supported headset model.

Counter Station Video Controls

• Adjust outside camera: Touch CAMERA UP/DOWN.
• View yourself (aim camera): Touch MIRROR key (30-second timeout).
• View outgoing video program: Hold MIRROR key for 3 seconds.
• Pause lane camera scrolling: Touch HOLD key.
• View next/previous lane camera: Touch CAMERA UP/DOWN keys.

Adjust Ringtones and Ringer Volume

Hold the SETUP key until CAMERA and VOLUME lights blink. Use CAMERA UP/DOWN to select a ringtone (16 available) and VOLUME UP/DOWN to set ringer volume.

Using Traffic Sensors

Lane stations connect to the Model 1547B traffic sensor via RJ45. When triggered, the counter station generates a call tone. Different ringtones can be assigned for traffic sensors and call buttons. Third-party sensors can be connected to the TRAFFIC SENSE (pin 6) and COMMON (pin 8) terminals.

Playing Audio and Video Content Through Lane Stations

Audio or video messaging can play when customers are on hold or the lane is idle. Connect source players to the PROGRAM INPUT ports on the 1517A hub card. Program audio level is adjustable at the hub. The 1550A Program Audio Abate setting can turn off program audio during idle periods. For PC video sources, a composite video card or external converter is needed to scale the output.

Diagram Description (Figure 13): Shows how to connect DVD/media players or PCs to the 1517A hub card for playing audio and video content. It illustrates the need for a composite video card or external converter for PC video output.

Using the 1550A Installer Setup Tool

The Model 1550A displays setup menus and settings for Series 1500 systems. System calibration can be performed from any counter station. Connect the tool via a CAT 5E/6 cable to the counter station's RJ45 jack.

Key Functions:

• CAMERA: Select next/previous station.
• SETUP: Enter submenu or confirm selection.
• VOLUME: Move menu cursor.
• PRIVACY: Go back to the previous menu.

Basic Setup Procedure: Hold the SETUP key for one second to enter Setup mode. Navigate menus using VOLUME keys, and confirm selections with SETUP. Changes are recorded upon exiting submenus. Choose to save or discard changes when exiting Setup mode.

Power User Tips: Use illuminated RED keys for faster menu navigation. Exit Setup mode by holding SETUP for one second. Use CAMERA UP/DOWN to switch between stations without leaving submenus.

Using an SD Card: SD cards are used for storing configuration data and upgrading system firmware. Back up system settings for later restoration or programming of other systems. To store configuration, use the WRITE TO MEM.CARD operation in the SETUP menu. To load settings, use the READ FROM MEM.CARD operation.

Diagram Description (Figure 16): Illustrates the 1550A Setup Tool connected to the underside of a 1500B counter station, showing the CAT 5E/6 cable connection and the layout of the tool's keys (SETUP, VOLUME, CAMERA, PRIVACY).

1550A Configuration Example

To enter configuration, connect the 1550A tool and hold SETUP for one second. Default values are available at www.audioauthority.com/1500defaults.

1. Adjust Audio Levels

Navigate to LANE PARAMETERS > AUTO-SELECT 1 LANE > SETUP. Adjust Inbound Volume Level, Outbound Volume Level, and Open Loop Gain using the VOLUME keys (1-16). Use PRIVACY to return.

2. Configure Key Assignment

Navigate to TELLER PARAMETERS > SINGLE TELLER > SETUP > KEY ASSIGNMENT. Use VOLUME keys to select a lane, then touch the desired key to assign it. Touch twice if the key is already assigned. Use CAMERA UP to configure the next teller station.

3. Save Settings and Exit Setup

Hold SETUP for one second to access the EXIT menu. Select EXIT AND SAVE, then confirm by pressing SETUP twice.

Menu Selections and Definitions

Firmware Update Instructions (Version 4.0 and later)

Download the latest 1500 Series firmware from www.audioauthority.com. Copy files to an SD card (microSD for 1509B/BV). The update may take several minutes; plan for downtime.

1. Insert the memory card into the hub's SD card slot (microSD for 1509B/BV, SD for 1517A).
2. Connect a 1550A Setup Tool to a counter station with firmware v4.0 or higher.
3. Press SETUP for 2 seconds.
4. Press Key 5 (second row, first button).
5. Press Key 4 (top row, last button).
6. Press the MIRROR key.
7. Press the SETUP key twice.

Upon successful update, "Firmware upgrade complete" displays on the 1550A. The menu structure is updated for consistency across hubs. Systems without a hub may be updated by temporarily inserting a hub.

Diagram Description (Figure 17): Shows the keypad of a 1500 Series III Intercom System, indicating the sequence of key presses (SETUP, Key 5, Key 4, MIRROR, SETUP twice) for firmware updates.

Testing the Installation

Check for successful power-up and connectivity:

• 1500B counter station: All LEDs dark until keys are pressed.
• 1509B/1509BV hubs: Flashing green Power LED; rapidly flashing counter station and lane station LEDs on connected ports.
• 1517A hub card: Flashing green LED; rapidly flashing counter station and lane station LEDs on connected ports.
• 1520/1522 lane stations: Rapidly flashing Power LED.

Check system operation by selecting each lane, speaking with an assistant, and adjusting gains using the 1550A setup tool.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Always test Cat 5 cables with a professional Network Cable Tester.
• Try connecting a counter station directly to a lane station to rule out faulty components.
• Restore system defaults to resolve unexpected behavior.
• If a lane doesn't show up on the hub, insert a firmware SD card and reboot the hub.

Counter station lights in a pattern

• Faulty Cat 5 cable: Use EIA 568B standard termination.
• Counter station connected to wrong hub port.

No video or poor video quality

• Check Cat 5 cables for EIA 568B termination.
• Avoid long coaxial cable runs between cameras, displays, and lane stations.
• Check microphone wiring polarity.

Low volume at counter station

Adjust inbound or open loop gain levels.

Acoustical coupling

• Increase separation between lane microphone and speaker.
• Isolate mic/speaker with a sound-damping barrier (e.g., foam rubber).
• Mount mic/speaker on separate surfaces or adjust mounting angles.
• If issues persist, adjust inbound, outbound, or open loop gain levels.

Poor deal drawer acoustics

• Fill hollow cavities in the deal drawer with foam rubber.
• Avoid resting the counter station directly on the deal drawer.

Repeating pops in audio

• Check cables for EIA 568B termination.
• Check system ground connections.

Lane indicator does not light up on hub

• Insert a firmware SD card into the hub and reboot it.
• If the lane station doesn't recover within 15 minutes, it may need replacement.

Lane keys don't respond

Reassign keys or restore factory defaults in the configuration menu.

Lane microphone doesn't work

• Ensure the microphone is an electret condenser type.
• Check microphone polarity.

Wind noise

Can be reduced by placing a small plug of 3M Scotchbrite™ in the microphone opening. Use Audio Authority lane microphones for optimal wind shielding.