Integrated, Self-Powered—Self-Processed, Industrial Systems User Manual ISIS 215SB 2 x 15” Weather-Resistant Subwoofer Cabinet with Speakon™ Input Connector ISIS 215PCM 3000 Watt Powered Subwoofer and 3600 Watt, 2-channel “Top Box” amplifier, Computer Configurable DSP for each Amplifier, Integral Wheels and Handles. *TD-000105-00* TD-000105-00 rev.
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS & EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS 1- Read these instructions. 2- Keep these instructions. 3- Heed all warnings. 4- Follow all instructions. 5- Do not use this apparatus near water. 6- Clean only with a dry cloth. 7- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with QSC Audio Product’s instructions. 8- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION General Overview...........................................................................................4 Technical Overview........................................................................................6 Block Diagram.................................................................................................7 UNPACKING Unpacking and Inspection..................................................................................8 What is Included..................
INTRODUCTION- General Overview Introduction Composilite™ Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the ISIS 215PCM Powered-System Control Module or 215SB Subwoofer. This product represents the state-of-the-art in all-weather, lightweight SR (sound reinforcement) loudspeaker systems. The “215” marks the introduction of QSC’s ISIS loudspeaker systems. ISIS is short for Integrated, Self-Powered—Self Processed, Industrial Systems.
INTRODUCTION- General Overview 215PCM Front A 16” length of “L-track” flying hardware is featured on all four corners of the cabinet. Pole cups are featured for either cabinet orientation. One, shown, on the shorter side, and two on the longer. 215PCM Rear Rubber feet are featured on the bottom of the cabinet, as viewed, and on the end in cases where it is desired to stand the cabinet up.
INTRODUCTION- Technical Overview Technical Overview: CH1 and CH2 Inputs are connected to the Top Box Processor and to the Mode Switch. In Combination Mode, the Mode Switch connects CH1 and CH2 Inputs to the Subwoofer Processor as well. In Discrete Mode, CH1 and CH2 Inputs are disconnected from the Subwoofer Processor, and Input 3 is used to feed the Subwoofer Processor. The Subwoofer Processor’s OUT1 DSP port is connected to the Subwoofer amplifier’s CH1 Input.
INTRODUCTION- Block Diagram 7
UNPACKING Unpacking and Inspection The 215PCM is highly durable and is carefully packaged and crated. We recommend you inspect the unit carefully after removing it from the packaging, as occasionally there may be damage due to some unfortunate incident during shipment. Report any damage to the shipping carrier. We recommend saving the carton and packing material. It is always a good idea to keep the packaging in case the unit must be shipped back to your dealer, distributor, or service center.
WHERE DO I START? For 215PCM Powered Core Module Users- 1- Install the Signal Manager software on the PC that will be used to configure the 215PCMs processors. See page 20. 2- Put the 215PCM in a location that: 3- Plug in the 215PCM. See page 11. 4- Connect the serial cable from the PC’s COM port to the Top Box Processor. See page 12. 5- Turn on the 215PCM. 6- Open the Signal Manager software on the PC.
PREPARATION FOR FIRST USE- Amplifier Gain Controls Adjusting the Gain Settings of the Amplifiers Ordinarily, the Gain controls of the amplifiers are left set at full gain. This is not recommended for first-time users of freelyconfigurable DSP. Freely configurable DSP, while being the most flexible and desirable, will do precisely what the user configures it to do. This may not be the expected, desired result and could damage your speakers or hearing.
CONNECTIONS- AC Power AC Power Connection The 215PCM requires a 120 Volt, 30 Amp connection to the AC mains. The power connectors used are to be NEMA L5-30, or equivalent. The serial number plate is imprinted with the operating voltage information. At peak output power, the 215PCM can supply up to 6,600 watts of music power. At these levels, the AC line current can easily reach levels in excess of 20 Amps. Proper AC connections are required at such high power levels.
CONNECTIONS- RS-232 Processor Configuration Connection RS-232 Connection (215PCM only) Each Processor has a 9-pin “D-sub” connector labeled RS-232. The RS-232 connection is used to configure the Processor by connecting to the PC’s COM port. Important points: – The 215PCM must be ON (powered up) in order to configure the Processors. – Each Processor is configured individually. – The serial cable connection is not required after configuring a Processor.
CONNECTIONS- Mode Switch and Signal Routing MODE SWITCH (215PCM only) The position of the Mode Switch determines how the input signals are routed. Select your operating mode before making connections. If you are using the DataPorts for audio input, the Mode Switch has no effect. Refer to the diagram, below. COMBINATION MODE– Use CH1 and CH2 Inputs OR Input 3 (mono). Typical “Left-Right” mixes will provide a stereo feed for CH1 and CH2 Inputs.
CONNECTIONS- Audio Connections: XLR Inputs Audio Connections Audio inputs can be connected to the XLR inputs OR the DataPort connections (QSControl users). This section provides information on using the XLR Inputs, For DataPort information see page 17. XLR Inputs The position of the Mode Switch determines how the input signals are routed. Select your operating mode before making connections. See page 7, Block Diagram. CH1 and CH2 INPUT - In Combination Mode, use these for 2-channel inputs.
CONNECTIONS- XLR Connection Recommendations and Pinouts XLR Connections The XLR inputs are electronically balanced. To maintain the benefits of balanced, pro-audio connections, make all connections to the 215PCM using balanced, high-quality cable and connectors. If balanced inputs are not available, use a unbalanced-to-balanced converter, such as a “DI” box or proper audio transformer. Unbalanced connections are prone to noise and interference pickup as well as ground-loop induced hum.
CONNECTIONS- Post Processor Outputs Post Processor Outputs Each processor has two post-processor outputs. They are labeled CH1 OUTPUT and CH2 OUTPUT. The audio present at these outputs is processed and the signal is the same as at the OUT1 and OUT2 blocks in the Signal Manager software. See Block Diagram, page 7, for details. These are electronically balanced outputs with an impedance of 600 ohms with the shield terminal connected to the chassis.
CONNECTIONS- DataPort (QSControl users only) DataPort Connections The DataPort connections on the 215PCM allow integration of the 215PCM into QSC networked audio control & monitoring applications. If you are not connecting the 215PCM to a QSC-based, networked control & monitoring system, do not use the DataPorts. If the DataPorts are used only for control and monitoring of amplifier functions and NOT audio input, then the XLRs may be used for audio inputs.
CONNECTIONS- Output to Top Boxes (Speakons™) Output to Top Boxes At the right side of the rear panel are the output connections to the top box speakers. Note the color coding scheme of the text labels for each Speakon connector. The color coding corresponds with the colors of the Mode Switch labels (Combination Mode or Discrete Mode).
USE- Cooling Air Inlet and Exhaust Vents Cooling Air Inlet and Exhaust Vents Be certain not to obstruct or block the Cooling Air Vents in any way! Loss of cooling air flow could result in the amplifiers going into thermal shutdown (protective muting to help cool the amplifier and prevent damage). Keep the vents free of dust and dirt buildup as airflow will be reduced. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that product heat.
USE- AC Power Switch and LED Indicators AC Power Switch Above and to the right of the AC entry connector is the Power switch. The switch is labeled POWER ON, above it. To turn the power on: Press in on the upper portion of the rocker switch. Both DSP-3’s blue Power indicators should illuminate after a brief amplifier startup sequene. To turn the power off: Press in on the bottom portion of the rocker switch. It may take a few moments for the Power LED’s to extinguish. This is normal. Power switch.
USE- LED Indicators (continued) and Important User Caution LED Indicators (continued) NOTE! If both PWR indicator LED’s fail to illuminate after turning the power to the 215PCM on, verify the AC power is working and is properly connected. If this fails to correct the problem, disconnect the DataPort connections (if any) and retry. If the PWR indicator illuminates now, the DataPort was forcing the amplifier into Standby mode.
PROCESSOR USE- Software Installation and System Requirements You must use the supplied software to design your configurations and then load those configurations into the Processor using a simple RS-232 connection from your PC to the Processor. Use the software’s Help System for instructions on how to use the Signal Manager software.
PROCESSOR USE: General Guidelines and Preset Description IMPORTANT! Please read before operating this Digital Signal Processor with your audio system. General Use Guidelines for Freely-Configurable DSP This is a professional level DSP product that allows the user to produce virtually unlimited signal processor variations and configurations.
Processor Use: Saving Presets Using QSC’s Signal Manager software Presets Each Processor must be loaded with your desired signal processing configuration using the Signal Manager program before use. Test all new configurations for expected behavior at low power levels to avoid inadvertently damaging speaker systems. Each Processor has eight Preset memories numbered 1 through 8. Presets are DSP configurations saved to memory in the Processor. Only one preset may be active at one time.
Processor Use: Configuring the Processors (Discrete 2.1) NOTE! The factory setting for all eight Preset memories is wire-through. Signals are passed from input to output without any processing. Each Processor must be configured as desired by the user. You may select configurations from the sample files (*.cfg) within Signal Manager or create your own. How the Processors are configured is dependant on the system setup and desired results. For example, a discrete 2.
Processor Use: Configuring the Processors (Discrete 2.1 continued) Example 1- Discrete 2.1 (continued) The Subwoofer Processor is next. In Discrete Mode, the Subwoofer Processor’s input signal comes from the Input 3 XLR. Input 3 is routed to the Subwoofer Processor’s IN1 block (see example, below). The IN2 block is not placed when operating in Discrete Mode.
Processor Use: Configuring the Processors (3-way Mono Stack) Example 2- Active 3-way Mono Stack In a 3-way configuration, the Top Box amplifier’s two channels are used for low- and high-frequencies and the subwoofer handles bass. The Processors perform the required crossover and time delay functions. This Top Box configuration has time delays included in the DSP chain to align the impulse response of the audio.
TROUBLESHOOTING The 215PCM won’t turn on when the Power switch is operated• Verify AC power source is providing required voltage. • Check each end of the power cord. The twist-lock connectors need to be fully inserted and twist-locked into place. • If using the DataPort inputs and QSC amplifier network control applications, the amplifier could be in STANDBY mode. Check with the system operator to place the amplifiers in POWER ON mode.
TROUBLESHOOTING Unable to “talk” to processor from Signal Manager software (OFFLINE status indicated)• Check that the serial cable is a normal serial data cable. Null-modem type cables will not work. • Make sure that the serial cable is properly connected on both ends and that the retaining screws are snug (finger tight).
TROUBLESHOOTING My Inputs are hooked up to the 215PCM, and the Top Boxes sound great. But, the subwoofer doesn’t seem to be working• Check the MODE SWITCH position. In COMBINATION MODE, inputs for CH1 and CH2 are summed and routed to the Subwoofer Processor. If set to DISCRETE MODE, the Subwoofer Processor is disconnected from CH1 and CH2 inputs, and connected to INPUT 3. And if Input 3 has no input signal connected to it, then the Subwoofer will have no signal.
Specifications- ISIS 215SB Dimensions SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE 31
Specifications- ISIS 215SB Acoustic Performance SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE 32
Specifications- ISIS 215SB 215SB Specifications Frequency Range Recommended Bandpass: Frequency Response: Usable Frequency Range: 35- 150 Hz (±3 dB) 36- 360 Hz (-3dB) 29- 440 Hz (-10 dB) Maximum Output Calculated Peak Output1: Measured Continuous Output2: Continuous Noise Exposure Level3: 141 dB SPL 131 dB SPL 122 dBA Impedance: 4 ohms (nom.) 3.7 ohms (min.) 23.3 ohms (max.
Specifications- ISIS 215PCM Self-Powered Dimensions 34 SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
Specifications- ISIS 215PCM 215PCM System Specification Description 215 PCM: Comprised of the 215SB Subwoofer Cabinet with a “backpack” containing two QSC DSP-3 24-bit Signal Processors, 1 ruggedized QSC PL230 3000 Watt amplifier and 1 ruggedized QSC PL236 3600 Watt amplifier. All interconnections for the audio signals and AC power are complete inside the backpack. Apply AC power, program the Signal Processors, connect the audio inputs, and plug in the Top Box speakers.
Specifications- ISIS 215PCM Amplifiers Amplifier Specifications Output Power in watts Subwoofer Amplifier (PL230 type) 4 Ohms, 1 kHz, 1% THD 3000 Watts FTC: 8 Ohms per channel (20- 20 kHz., 0.03% THD) 4 Ohms per channel (20- 20 kHz., 0.05% THD) 725 Watts 1100 Watts EIA: 1 kHz @ 1% THD 8 Ohms per channel 4 Ohms per channel 2 Ohms per channel 800 Watts 1300 Watts 1850 Watts Top Box Amplifier (PL236 type) Distortion (both amplifiers) SMPTE-IM Less than 0.
Specifications- ISIS 215PCM Processors Digital Signal Processor Specifications Type Freely configurable, custom DSP with software for PC. Computer connection needed only for set up. Signal Processing Two QSC DSP-3 Processors, 24 bit, 48 kHz., one for each amplifier Frequency response at 3 dB below full scale input voltage 20 Hz– 10 kHz ±0.3 dB (XLR inputs on 215PCM rear panel) 20 Hz– 20 kHz ±0.7 dB (XLR inputs on 215PCM rear panel) 20 Hz– 20 kHz±0.
APPENDIX- Contact Closure Wiring Details Contact Closure Feature The contact closure feature is used to trigger gain changes in the DSP. Any configuration that uses one or more switched gain objects (see Signal Manager software Help file ) can take advantage of this feature. The contact closure will trigger all switched gain objects at once.
APPENDIX- RS-232 Pinout and Pin #9 Usage Note RS-232 Pinout: The diagram below shows the pin assignments for the female RS-232 connector on the DSP-3 Processors featured in the 215PCM. Pin Signal Description 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 DCD TD RD DTR GND DSR RTS CTS Contact Closure *Note! Pin 9 is used for contact closure input. This pin is not normally used by RS-232 devices.
WARRANTY INFORMATION & HOW TO CONTACT QSC WARRANTY (USA only; other countries, see your dealer or distributor) Disclaimer QSC Audio Products, Inc. is not liable for any damage to amplifiers, or any other equipment that is caused by negligence or improper installation and/or use of this speaker product. Product Warranty QSC Audio Products, Inc.
QSC Audio Products, Inc. 1675 MacArthur Boulevard Costa Mesa, California 92626 USA “QSC” and the QSC logo are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. ©2001 QSC Audio Products, Inc.
