Crown I-Tech Series Application Guide

1. Power and Thermal Information

1.1 Output Power

Provides a table detailing the output power (in Watts) for I-T8000, I-T6000, and I-T4000 amplifiers across 8 Ohm, 4 Ohm, and 2 Ohm configurations, for both Stereo and Mono modes. Specifications are guaranteed minimum power output per channel from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with <0.35% THD, both channels driven, at 120-240VAC, 50/60 Hz.

1.2 AC Power Draw and Thermal Dissipation

Presents data on AC power draw and thermal dissipation for I-T4000, I-T6000, and I-T8000 amplifiers under various load conditions (Idle, 1/8th Power Pink Noise, 1/3rd Power Pink Noise) and voltage inputs (120VAC, 208VAC, 230VAC). Data is based on pink noise with a 12dB crest factor, bandwidth limited 22Hz to 22kHz, and typical line impedance.

1.3 AC Power Distribution

Explains that I-Tech amplifiers utilize a 20amp power cord and feature an innovative PFC (Power Factor Correction) technology for efficient power draw. A single I-Tech amplifier can operate on a dedicated 20-amp circuit. Professional power distribution systems are recommended for racks or multiple racks of I-Tech amplifiers, with examples including a 200 Amp, 120VAC three-phase, 12-circuit distribution rack.

2. Wiring Recommendations

2.1 Input Wiring

Details the input signal connections for I-Tech amplifiers, which include analog and AES/EBU, or integrated IQ Network and CobraNet™ connections. For AES/EBU digital wiring, 110 ohm shielded twisted-pair cable is recommended for optimal performance, supporting lengths up to 100 meters. Longer distances may require active repeaters and equalization. A link to the AES Standard for AES/EBU signal wiring is provided in the Appendix.

Figure 2.1: Balanced Analog and AES/EBU Wiring shows connector pin assignments for both analog and AES/EBU signals.

2.2 Output Wiring

Describes the output connectors, including industrial-grade (50A) binding posts and Neutrik® Speakon® NL4MP connectors. For maximum power transfer and minimal line loss, 10 AWG or larger professional-grade speaker cable is recommended. Figure 2.2: I-Tech Line-Loss provides a chart showing line losses per 20 feet of cable for different AWG sizes and speaker impedances (2 Ohm, 4 Ohm, 8 Ohm).

Figure 2.3: Output Wiring with 5-Way Binding Post Connectors illustrates stereo and bridge wiring configurations using binding posts.

Figure 2.4: Stereo Output Wiring with Both Speakon Connectors shows stereo output wiring using two Speakon connectors.

Figure 2.5: Stereo Output Wiring with a Single Speakon Connector illustrates stereo output wiring using one Speakon connector.

Figure 2.6: Bridge Output Wiring with a Single Seakon Connector depicts bridge output wiring using a single Speakon connector.

2.3 Network Wiring

Explains how to establish network connections for I-Tech amplifiers using IQ Network software. Standard 100Mb Ethernet hardware and protocols are used. Figure 2.7: Connecting to a single I-Tech Amplifier shows a PC connected to one I-Tech amplifier via a crossover network cable. Figure 2.8: Three I-Tech Amplifiers in a Simple IQ Network illustrates a network setup with one PC and three I-Tech amplifiers connected through a network switch.

Fast Ethernet networks, including IQ Networks, require Cat. 5 or higher grade network cabling. For best results, preassembled Cat. 5 cables are recommended. When making custom cables, follow the EIA/TIA 568B protocol for RJ-45 cable. Figure 2.9: EIA/TIA 568B Color Code provides the wire color assignments.

3. I-Tech Settings

3.1 Setting Sensitivity / Gain

Discusses the importance of an optimized system gain structure for maximizing signal-to-noise ratio. I-Tech amplifiers offer 149 sensitivity and gain settings for fine adjustment. The Appendix provides charts with sensitivity in volts and gain in dB. It is recommended to set the amplifier's sensitivity/gain to achieve desired output with attenuators at or near 0 dB, rather than relying heavily on attenuation.

Figure 3.1: Sensitivity / Gain Setting shows an example of the attenuation preset display.

3.2 Setting Limiters

Highlights the amplifier's capability for high voltage output and the importance of loudspeaker protection. I-Tech amplifiers offer three types of output limiters: Clip Eliminator, Peak Voltage Limiter, and Average Power Limiter. These can be accessed from the front panel or IQwic software.

Figure 3.2: Output Limiters displays the front panel interface for setting limiters.

3.3 Communicating with I-Tech

Details the use of IQwic software for amplifier setup, control, and monitoring within an IQ Network. IQwic allows loading amplifier settings, DSP settings, and saving/recalling presets. The front panel can only recall presets; IQwic is required for creation, modification, and storage.

Figure 3.3: Windows in IQwic Software shows the Main Window, Workplace Window, and Component Control Panel.

Dataframes are snapshots of the system, containing component information and control settings, which can be saved and recalled.

3.3.2 Network Wizard

The Network Wizard in IQwic assists in establishing TCP/IQ network communications, discovering and addressing components, and troubleshooting errors. It guides users through network setup.

Figure 3.4: Network Wizard shows the Network Setup Wizard interface.

3.3.3 Engage a Dataframe

Explains how to copy software control settings from a Dataframe to actual IQ Network components. This is done via the 'Engage' command in IQwic. Users can select specific components to engage.

Figure 3.5: Engage Dataframe shows the menu option to engage a Dataframe.

Figure 3.6: Choose Components to Engage displays the dialog for selecting components.

3.4 Presets

3.4.1 Save Settings as a Preset

Describes how to save amplifier settings as a preset using IQwic software. This involves opening the Component Control Panel, accessing the Presets tab, ensuring the desired state, entering descriptions, and clicking 'Store'. Presets can be stored in one of ten available slots.

Figure 3.7: Preset Tab of the I-Tech Control Panel in IQwic Software illustrates the preset management interface.

3.4.2 Recall a Preset

Details how to recall presets from either the front panel or IQwic software. Front panel recall involves navigating the menu to the Speaker Preset option and using the encoder knobs to select and confirm a preset. IQwic recall involves selecting a preset button and choosing 'Recall this preset'.

Figure 3.8: Front Panel Worksurface Controls shows the amplifier's front panel interface.

Figure 3.9: Example Preset Menu Screen displays an example of the speaker preset screen.

Figure 3.10: Verify Recall or Store Preset Prompt shows the confirmation dialog for recalling or storing a preset.

3.5 Loading Firmware

Explains how to update amplifier firmware using the TCP/IQ Utility program. Different firmware files exist for the front panel and DSP.

3.5.1 TCP/IQ Utility

Introduces the TCP/IQ Utility program for updating firmware and as a setup/troubleshooting tool for TCP/IQ Networks.

3.5.2 Front Panel Firmware

Provides step-by-step instructions for updating the front panel firmware using TCP/IQ Utility, including selecting the amplifier, clicking 'Send Code', selecting the firmware file (e.g., 'ITDAPP_x'), and monitoring the progress.

Figure 3.11: "Send Code” Function in TCP/IQ Utility illustrates the firmware upload interface.

3.5.3 DSP Firmware

Details the process for updating DSP firmware, noting that this will disrupt audio and reset DSP settings to factory defaults. Instructions are similar to front panel firmware updates, involving selecting the 'ITA_x' file.

4. I-Tech and JBL VERTEC

Crown I-Tech amplifiers and JBL VERTEC Line Array loudspeaker systems are presented as a powerful combination for delivering high-quality sound with controlled coverage. This section provides recommendations for matching I-Tech amplifiers to VERTEC loudspeakers and wiring them correctly. Examples illustrate basic system configurations using I-Tech amplifiers with VERTEC elements.

The guide emphasizes that identical amplifiers can be used for different frequency bands if signal processing is employed to limit channel output. Limiter settings are based on JBL's Average Power and Continuous Maximum Power specifications for VERTEC systems, providing 3 dB of headroom.

Figure 4.1: 4-Element VT4887 and 2-Element VT4881 with 2 I-Tech shows a wiring diagram and a table detailing amplifier configurations, speaker connections, and power ratings for this setup.

Figure 4.2: 4-Element VT4888 with 3 I-Tech provides a similar diagram and table for a different configuration.

Figure 4.3: 4-Element VT4888 with 4 I-Tech illustrates another system configuration.

Figure 4.4: 6-Element VT4888 with 4 I-Tech shows a more complex setup.

Figure 4.5: 4-Element VT4889 with 3 I-Tech details a system using VT4889 loudspeakers.

Figure 4.6: 4-Element VT4889 with 4 I-Tech presents another VT4889 configuration.

Figure 4.7: 6-Element VT4889 with 4 I-Tech illustrates a larger VT4889 system.

Figure 4.8: 8-Element VT4889 with 4 I-Tech shows the largest VT4889 system configuration.

Figure 4.9: 2-Element VT4880 with 1 I-Tech demonstrates a basic setup with VT4880 loudspeakers.

Figure 4.10: 4-Element VT4880 with 1 I-Tech shows a larger VT4880 system.

Appendix

I-Tech Sensitivity Charts

Contains detailed tables listing sensitivity (Vrms) and gain (dB) settings for I-T8000, I-T6000, and I-T4000 amplifiers across a wide range of values, along with input switch settings (15dBu, 21dBu, Both).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Addresses common questions regarding I-Tech amplifiers, including power output with a 20A plug, Class-I technology, energy recycling, 2-ohm power specifications, power measurement methods, 20Hz to 20kHz specs, PFC behavior, cost-effectiveness, DSP integration, available filters, delay settings, compatibility with external processors, post-processed audio output, and attenuator limiters.

Q. How can I-Tech produce so much power with only a 20A plug?
A. Class-I technology and PFC power supply enable efficient power draw and high output.

Q. Isn't Class-I just like other amplifier classes?
A. No, Class-I is a unique, patented design by Crown.

Q. How does I-Tech recycle energy from the load?
A. Class-I stores returned energy in power supply bulk capacitors for later use.

Q. Why is the 2 ohm power number smaller than the 4 ohm power number?
A. Class-I is not voltage limited like other designs, allowing for higher output at lower impedances.

Q. How does Crown measure power?
A. Using the "Maximum Average Power" method.

Q. What are your 20Hz to 20kHz specs?
A. All output power specs are provided at 20Hz to 20kHz.

Q. I heard that PFC could cause the mains to sag and shut the amplifier down. Will I-Tech's PFC do that?
A. No, I-Tech's PFC monitors and corrects for mains voltage fluctuations.

Q. Are you going to produce a lower-cost version of I-Tech?
A. I-Tech is competitively priced and offers features like DSP and 200V rails not found in competitors.

Q. I don't want to use your DSP. Can I buy I-Tech without DSP?
A. No, DSP is integral to I-Tech's performance and features.

Q. What kind of filters are available in I-Tech's DSP?
A. Various lowpass, highpass, lowshelf, highshelf, and parametric EQ filters are available, with up to +/-24dB gain.

Q. How many filters are available in I-Tech's DSP?
A. There are 64 filters available.

Q. How much delay is available in I-Tech's DSP?
A. Over 2 seconds of delay is available per channel.

Q. What are the adjustment increments for I-Tech's delay setting?
A. 20 microsecond increments.

Q. Will other signal processors work with I-Tech? I don't want to use the on board DSP.
A. Yes, external processors can be used, but their inherent latency must be considered.

Q. Is post-processed audio available on the analog audio XLR outputs/loop through?
A. No, post-processed outputs are not necessary due to the integrated DSP.

Q. What is an attenuator limiter?
A. A control to limit or lock the attenuator at a user-defined level.

Q. If I use I-Tech and Macro-Tech® to power a stack, do I have to worry about any delay or time alignment?
A. There is a ~1 ms difference between I-Tech and Macro-Tech amplifiers.

Q. What is latency, and does I-Tech have a fixed latency?
A. Latency is the time for a signal to travel from input to output. Analog input latency is measured at 1.13ms. AES/EBU latency varies with sample rate.

Q. I cannot find 26dB gain in the sensitivity menu. Is it available in I-Tech?
A. Yes, by setting the max input level switch to 20dBu.

Q. How do I set the power limiters?
A. Via the front panel LCD or IQwic software.

Q. Why did you put an LCD on the front?
A. For real-time diagnostics, network capabilities, and ease of monitoring.

Q. Do I have to use the LCD?
A. No, the amplifier can be used as a traditional plug-and-play device.

Q. How can I keep unauthorized people from tampering with my settings?
A. Controls can be locked out via the front panel LCD or IQwic software.

Q. I don't know anything about networking. Can I get I-Tech's networking up and running quickly without reading a book or taking a class?
A. The IQwic Network Wizard assists with network setup.

Q. What happens if the network breaks or goes down?
A. Network communication stops, but the amplifier continues to operate as programmed.

Q. Why didn't you use the Ethercon connector for the network connection?
A. The EtherCon connector does not provide noise filtering, unlike the connector used in I-Tech.

Q. What happens if the amp loses digital signal?
A. Analog connections can serve as a backup, and the amplifier will switch automatically.

Q. Are there filters available for the air inlets?
A. Yes, two sets are included.

Q. Are the air filters required? How often should I change them?
A. Filters are not required but should be cleaned/changed frequently depending on dust levels to ensure proper airflow.

Website Links

Provides a list of links for further information on I-Tech Series amplifiers and related products, including manufacturer websites, technical documents, and application guides.