Video Demonstration System

Thanks!

Everyone at Audio Authority would like to thank you for selecting our products for your demonstration needs. We design and build them to be the very best. We don't take your business for granted and hope our products and services will justify the confidence you have shown in us, and produce the merchandising efficiency you desire. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about our products.

PLEASE, Read This Manual

If you are like most people, you would rather jump right in and use a product than read its instruction manual. For this reason, we have tried to make this manual as concise as possible and organized in such a way that you can find the information you need quickly. A few minutes invested in looking over this manual will, in fact, reduce your installation time and chance of errors dramatically. So please, read on.

Save This Manual

Don't forget to save this manual in a place where it will not be lost or forgotten. Entrust its safekeeping to someone in your firm.

Make a Record of Your Purchase Now

Take a moment now to record the model and serial numbers, date, and invoice number for the modules comprising your demonstration system. A form for this purpose is provided in the Technical Service portion of this manual. Creating this record will greatly simplify service arrangements, should service ever be necessary.

Overview of the Series Five Demonstration System

Audio Authority Series Five products are designed to provide consumer electronics retailers with a flexible system for demonstrating all types of video entertainment components. Its modular design accommodates an unlimited quantity and variety of products (VCRs, monitors, receivers, tuners, video disc players, satellite receivers, etc.) to meet the individual merchandising needs of each retailer.

Though Series Five encompasses many products and accessories, its signal handling functions can be categorized into two basic functions - product selection and comparison, and signal distribution to many components simultaneously. These functions are performed respectively, by two modules - the Model 510 Universal Video Comparator and the Model 500 Video/Audio Distribution Amplifier. The features, controls, and connections for the Model 510 are shown on the illustration below. The Model 500 is similar except for the absence of selector buttons on front panel).

All signal routing occurs at line-level with provisions for three signals: composite video plus left and right channel audio, rather than one RF-type signal where video and audio are carried on one coax cable for reception over a specific TV channel. All connections to the Series Five modules mirror those found on typical video components - an RCA jack for each signal type, for each product connected.

System Diagram: Model 510 Comparator

The front panel of the Model 510 Comparator is illustrated, showing:

• Product ID Label (model & serial no.)
• Left Cabinet Access Port (plastic cover)
• Right Cabinet Access Port (plastic cover)
• Panel Mounting Holes
• Product Selection Buttons
• Panel Legend Inlay
• Break-away Cabinet Flanges for Stacking Modules
• Areas for Renumbering Cabinet Connections on Expanded Modules
• RCA Jacks for 1 to 16 Video Components
• RCA Jacks for Output on Model 510. Input on Model 500
• Expansion Bus Connection

Application Examples

View any VCR on a TV Monitor/Receiver

Diagram shows up to 16 VCRs connected via line-level outputs to a Model 510 Comparator. The Comparator's output is routed to a TV Monitor/Receiver. A note indicates that TVs without A-V inputs require a Model 520 RF modulator.

View any VCR on Several TV Monitor/Receivers Simultaneously

Diagram shows up to 16 VCRs (or video sources) connected via line-level outputs to a Model 510 Comparator. The Comparator's output is passed to a Model 500 Distribution Amp. The Distribution Amp then sends the signal to up to 16 TV Monitor/Receivers. A note mentions the need for a Model 520 RF modulator for TVs without A-V inputs.

Any Video Source to All VCRs (Allows A/B Comparison of Record Quality), and Any VCR to All Monitor/Receivers Simultaneously

Two system configurations are shown. The first depicts up to 16 Video Sources connected to a Model 510 Comparator, whose selected output feeds a Model 500 Distribution Amp, which then feeds up to 16 VCRs. The second configuration shows up to 16 VCRs connected to a second Model 510 Comparator, whose selected output feeds a second Model 500 Distribution Amp, which then feeds up to 16 TV Monitor/Receivers.

Application Notes

• Any product grouping may be expanded beyond 16 units (to 32 or 48) with additional 500 or 510 modules and a 581 Expansion Bus Cable.
• For information on configuring an in-house antenna system to distribute RF signals (like cable TV) consult a local MATV specialist.

Preparing For the Installation

While Series Five products are designed for simple, straight-forward installation, they differ significantly from ordinary "switchers". Following these instructions a step at a time will assure proper installation, the first time. We suggest that you mark off each step as you complete it.

Checking Contents of Shipment

Check the contents of the shipping containers against the packing slip to be certain that the components you need are present. An installation requires at least a Model 510 Universal Video Comparator or a Model 500 Distribution Amp, with a Model 580 Video Setup Kit.

Assembling Necessary Tools and Materials

Tools Required:

• Scissors
• Knife
• #2 Phillips screwdriver
• Small flat blade screwdriver
• Pliers
• 4-6 inch (100-150mm) wire ties
• Sequentially numbered wire markers
• Audio/video (3-channel) interconnect cable*
• RCA male connectors (102 per Model 500/510)*
• "Y-adapters" (for components with mono audio)

For Panel Mounting:

• Tape measure
• Straight edge
• Saber saw
• Electric drill and 1/8 inch (3 mm) bit

*Cable and Connector Recommendation: Audio Authority's Excellerator Cable system is designed for professional installations, featuring solderless, screw-on gold RCA connectors for easy fabrication and reliability.

If you have questions about where to obtain any of the items listed above, please call the factory for assistance.

Installation Steps

1 - Applying the Proper Panel Inlay to Model 510s

Each Model 510 includes self-adhesive Lexan® panel inlays for labeling video components. For each Model 510:

• Select the appropriate inlay strip.
• Apply the inlay strip to the front panel groove, aligning the "window" under "POWER" with the leftmost LED.
• Trim excess with scissors or a razor knife.

NOTE: The Model 500's panel inlay is applied at the factory. Product number ranges higher than 32 are available as an accessory.

2 - Connecting Remote Indicator Cable to Model 510s

If remote indicator lights are to be used with any 510s:

• Pry out and discard the plastic cover from the right cabinet access port.
• Insert the indicator cable connector into the multi-pin receptacle on the circuit board.
• Keep the excess cable rolled up.

3 - Programming Model 500's for Expansion Beyond 16 Components

Skip this step if Model 500s are not combined to feed more than 16 components from a single source. Each Model 500 features a programmable 75 ohm termination resistor. When multiple 500s feed more than 16 units from one source, only one module should have its termination resistor enabled; others must be reprogrammed to disable it to prevent improper loading and poor video performance.

To reprogram a Model 500:

• Use a small screwdriver to pry off the rectangular plastic cover from the left cabinet access port.
• Disable the termination resistor by moving the circuit board jumper (at location P103) to the OUT position. (Factory default is IN position).
• Snap the plastic cover back on.

NOTE: If Model 500s combined for quantities greater than 16 are later separated, modules reprogrammed to disable termination resistors must have them re-enabled by moving the jumper back to the original IN position.

4 - Combining Like Modules for Expansion Beyond 16 Units

Skip this step if no 500s or 510s are combined for quantities greater than 16. Otherwise:

• Identify and group sets of 500s and/or 510s for product groups over 16.
• Stack modules in each set, securing them with provided screws. Model 510s should be stacked in ascending order (1-16 on top, 17-32 next, etc.); Model 500s can be stacked in any order.
• Plug one end of the Model 581 Expansion Bus Cable into the Expansion port of the top unit.
• Plug the free end of the bus cable into the bottom unit.
• Plug the center plug into the middle module, if applicable.
• Press excess cable against the back of the cabinets.

NOTE: Model 500s and Model 510s cannot be mixed on the same Expansion Bus Cable.

CAUTION: Visually align the expansion bus cable's connector with the pin connector on the module cabinet to avoid making the module inoperative.

5 - Renumbering Expanded Model 510 Cabinets

For Model 510s handling product ranges above 1 to 16, it is recommended to modify rear cabinet legends for correct display numbers (e.g., 17-32, 33-48). Four arrows beneath regular product numbers on the rear of the 510 allow for this. Use the included fine point indelible marker from the 581 Kit to renumber according to the chart:

6 - Building the Module Stack

For a single module: remove the right cabinet access port cover and plug the 580 Video Power Supply cord into the matching receptacle on the circuit board. Use any of the four power pack outputs. Proceed to Step 7.

For systems with multiple 500s and/or 510s:

• Determine stacking order by referencing the chart on the next page and crossing out modules not present in your system.

System Stacking Chart

*These modules reprogrammed to disable redundant termination resistor.

NOTE: The 580 Video Power Supply has 4 connectors. It can power up to 4 modules/sets. No more than 3 Model 500s should be connected to a single 580. Use multiple 580s for more than 3 500s.

NOTE: Only the first module in an expanded set needs connection to the 580 cord; remaining modules receive power via the Expansion Bus Cable.

Stacking Procedure:

• Starting with the bottom module (or set), plug the 580 Power Supply cord into the circuit board receptacle beneath the right cabinet access port.
• Select the next higher module (or set) and place it on the bottom module, interlocking the front panels.
• Fasten the cabinet flanges of the bottom module to the higher module using the provided screws.
• Plug the next connector on the 580 cord into the top module.
• Repeat until all modules are joined and connected to a 580 Power Supply.

7 - Removing Breakaway Cabinet Flanges from Top Module

Before proceeding, verify:

• Modules are in the correct order (top to bottom) as per the system chart.
• Every module/set has a 580 Power Supply cord plugged in.
• Each expanded set has an Expansion Bus Cable connected.
• All desired remote indicator cables are connected.

If any steps are incomplete, complete them before proceeding. Then:

• Break off the two flanges from the top module using pliers. Bend each flange slightly to the side until it breaks clean; do not overbend.

8 - Initial Checkout

• Verify the 580 Video Power Supply input voltage rating (120V vs. 220V) is correct for your application.
• Plug the 580 Video Power Supply(s) into an unswitched wall outlet. The POWER indicator on each module will illuminate.
• Push each selector button. The indicator above each button will light. If 510s are joined by Expansion Bus Cables, each new selection will release the previous one. If issues arise, check Power Supply and Expansion Bus Cable connections. Contact factory Technical Service if problems persist.

9 - Preparing To Panel Mount the Module Stack

If the Series Five Module Stack will sit on a shelf, skip this step. To panel mount:

Panel Mount Opening Chart:

NOTE: Series Five modules are not compatible with EIA-standard equipment racks. Consult the factory for mounting in commercial racks.

• Mark a rectangular opening in the display fixture according to the chart above.
• Protect the display surface with masking tape where the cutting tool will contact it.
• Carefully cut the opening with a saber saw, ensuring it is straight and rectangular.
• Remove rubber feet from the bottom unit and fit the stack through the opening.
• Position the stack and mark the centers for panel mounting holes.
• Remove the stack and drill 1/8 inch (3 mm) guide holes at marked locations.
• Position the stack in the opening to verify hole locations. Final installation occurs after all wiring is complete. Set the stack aside.

10 - Selecting Cables and Connectors

The display wiring is crucial for system performance. Using premium grade cable and connectors ensures the best picture and sound.

Required Cable Characteristics:

• Audio: Dual channel, shielded, low capacitance.
• Video: Shielded coax, 75 ohms nominal impedance.

Cables and solder-on RCA connectors are available at electronic parts stores. The traditional method of soldering RCA connectors onto cables has drawbacks:

Drawbacks of Traditional Soldering:

• Labor Cost: High time investment for stripping, soldering, and crimping connectors, especially with many connectors per module.
• Installation Difficulty: Fabricating connectors at a workbench is practical, but pulling cables with connectors attached can be difficult and cause plug failure.
• Long Term Reliability: Soldered connectors with inadequate strain relief can loosen over time, leading to channel loss.

Audio Authority developed the Excellerator Cable system to address these issues, featuring:

Excellerator Cable System Features:

• Ideal Electrical Characteristics: 95 ohms impedance, low capacitance (<15pF/ft), extremely low loss for long runs (0.0151 dB/ft at 6MHz), wide bandwidth (DC to 50MHz).
• Available in 3-channel configuration (stereo audio + video) up to 500 feet.
• Solderless, gold-plated RCA connectors screw on easily without special tools, reducing installation time and difficulty.
• Connectors feature special strain relief for long-term reliability and resistance to abuse.
• Cables can be pulled without connectors and trimmed to length with scissors; connectors are added afterward.

NOTE: Stringing together patch cords with barrels is not recommended due to poor quality, performance, and reduced reliability.

11 - Wiring the Display

Minimize interconnect cable lengths to avoid signal degradation. Keep lengths just long enough for connections.

Cable Fabrication and Installation:

• Calculate exact cable lengths needed between modules and component locations (a scaled drawing is helpful).
• Cut cables to length and use cable markers to identify each by its display product location.
• Install RCA connectors on both ends of each interconnect cable.
• Pull finished cables through the display, leaving adequate slack for connections.
• If fabricating at the display location, pull desired cable length to the hookup point, leaving slack.
• Use cable markers at each end to identify the cable.
• Trim cables for desired slack and install RCA connectors.

NOTE: Using cable markers is crucial for future maintenance and product changes.

NOTE: Bundle wires with nylon ties for neatness and to support their weight, keeping them off the module stack.

12 - Installing the Stack

The basic signal flow involves connecting component outputs to 510 inputs, 510 outputs to other 510 inputs or 500 inputs, and 500 outputs to component inputs. Follow these basic steps:

Interconnection Steps:

• Connect component outputs to the 16 "FROM VIDEO/AUDIO OUT" jacks on the 510.
• Connect the 510's "VIDEO/AUDIO OUT" jacks to a single video product's input, or to the "FROM VIDEO/AUDIO OUT" jacks of a Model 500 for distribution to multiple components.
• Connect the 500's input jacks ("FROM VIDEO/AUDIO OUT") to a single video product's output or a Model 510's "VIDEO/AUDIO OUTPUT".
• Connect the 500's 16 "TO VIDEO/AUDIO IN" jacks to the inputs of video products receiving the common source signal.

Check 580 Power Supply connections to modules before mounting. Plug 580s into wall outlets.

Connect remote indicators to the stack via the 34-pin bus cable(s) to the Indicator Interface Board.

Once connections are complete, mount the stack in the display, securing panels with provided screws. Use pre-drilled guide holes.

Connect individual video components, carefully following cable markings to distinguish audio/video and input/output cables.

NOTE: If components lack stereo outputs/inputs, use a "Y-adapter".

NOTE: Model 500 features circuitry allowing outputs to individual components to be combined with a "Y-adapter" without typical problems.

NOTE: A small number of video monitors can be fed from a single video output by "looping through".

NOTE: Composite video signals cannot be split with TV signal splitters or "Y-adapters"; use a distribution amplifier like the Model 500.

13 - Connecting RF Modulators to TVs Without Video Inputs

For TVs without direct video inputs, a Model 520 RF Modulator is required between the system and the TV's antenna input. The 520 modulates combined audio and composite video onto VHF channels 3 or 4.

Connecting a Model 520:

• Plug the display system's stereo audio and composite video output into the corresponding jacks on the 520.
• Connect the 520's "RF-Output" to the TV's antenna input using an RG-59 cable with an F-type connector.
• Tune the TV to channel 3 or 4 (selected on the 520) to view the system output.

To supply an RF signal to multiple TVs without direct video inputs:

• Feed the 520's "RF Output" into the head end of an in-house MATV system using a signal combiner, ensuring no conflicting RF sources on the channel.
• Alternatively, feed the 520's "RF Output" into a VHF antenna amplifier and use splitters/line tapoffs to connect multiple TVs.

14 - Final Checkout and Troubleshooting

Pre-Checkout Checklist:

• Ensure all sources are ready (software loaded, cable/antenna inputs connected).

Checkout Procedure:

• Play each source one at a time through a monitor or VCR/monitor. Check for clean video/audio and stereo separation.
• Identify and resolve any trouble areas.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Very Weak or Absent Video or Audio:

• Possible defective interconnect cable or improperly installed connectors. Be critical of soldered RCA plugs, which are common trouble sources.

Snowy Video or Noisy Audio:

• Problem with cable TV or antenna source (faulty cable/connectors).
• Antenna preamplifier turned off.
• Too many splitters on the antenna line.

In General:

• Always verify inputs and outputs are correctly oriented to the 500s and 510s.

Summary of Connections:

• 16 sets of 500 jacks connect to component INPUTS.
• 16 sets of 510 jacks connect to component OUTPUTS.
• Connections between Model 510s and 500s use interconnect cables.
• Connections between expanded 500s or 510s use the Expansion Bus Cable.

If unsure about system hookup, review Step 12 and get a second opinion.

Complete system checkout by testing all other video products on the display one by one.

Technical Service

Maintenance

Use a mild window cleaner for fingerprints on front panels. No other regular service is required.

Service Procedures

A document titled "Service Policies and Procedures" is included with each Series Five product, detailing service procedures. Services offered include:

Application Consultation

Audio Authority sales staff can assist with product application for demonstration needs, drawing on their retail experience.

Installation Consultation

The Technical Service Manager is available to help with configuration and installation problems.

TOLL-FREE NUMBER: 800-32-AUDIO / 800-322-8346

In Kentucky call: 859-233-4599

Warranty Service

Most products are designed for quick in-store service via circuit board replacement. The Technical Service Manager can diagnose issues over the phone.

Out-of Warranty Service

Service commitment continues after the warranty period, with similar procedures but a nominal cost difference for replacement modules.

Record of Purchase

Fields for Date of Purchase, Invoice Number, Model 500 Quantity/Serial Numbers, Model 510 Quantity/Serial Numbers, Model 515s, Model 520s, and Other.

Limited Warranty

Audio Authority warrants Series Five products against defects for one year from purchase. Audio Authority will exchange or repair faulty modules/parts at no charge if returned freight prepaid. Warranty is void for units subjected to accident, misuse, abuse, or improper installation. Audio Authority is not responsible for consequential damages.