Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.
5451 North Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667
SA-500-27
SIREN AMPLIFIER
WITH MECHANICAL TONE
VOLUME
OUTPUT
Y→P→W
MANUAL
HORN
RAD
PA
MECH
SA-500
STBY
O
F
RADIO
O
N
F
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.
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SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 3 of 12
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SA-500 Siren Amplifier with Mechanical Tone is a premium unit designed for single or dual
100W speaker use. A 4-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating modes of
Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail, Mechanical, Standby and Radio. Two-Tone may optionally replace
Phaser. A Horn push-button switch provides Horn override in all modes except Radio. A Manual
push-button switch provides Manual control of the output tone or toggling between tones depend-
ing on the selector switch setting. An independent rocker switch controls power. A permanently
mounted Noise Canceling PA microphone overrides all modes except Radio. PA and Radio
volume controls are provided on the front panel. An Auxiliary input is provided for connection to a
positive or negative horn ring circuit or switch. A latching siren Cutout input is provided for con-
nection to a door switch, etc. to stop siren tones when exiting the vehicle. An internal 8-Position
DIP switch allows selection of various options. The front panel is backlit with LED's for night
visibility. This compact unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection
systems for maximum service life. Output indicator light on face for diagnostics.
SPECIFICATIONS
Input Voltage
Input Current
9 - 16 VDC (negative ground)
8 AMPS (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
16 AMPS (@14 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Standby Current
Audio Frequency
Audio Distortion
Audio Output
Less than 150 ma
200Hz - 10 kHz + 3db
Less than 3% (@1 kHz - single 100W speaker)
40 watts (@14 VDC - single 100W speaker)
0.75V RMS MIN. 400 ohms + 10%
Audio Input
Output Power
105 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - single 100W speaker)
180 WATTS RMS MAX. (15 VDC - dual 100W speakers)
Siren Frequency
700Hz - 1500Hz (Mechanical 700Hz - 1600Hz, Two-Tone = 435 & 585Hz)
Tones/Cycle Rates
Mech
6 CPM
Wail
13 CPM
Yelp
190 CPM
Phaser
15 CPS
Two-Tone
60 CPM
High Voltage Protection
Short Circuit Current
Operating Temp.
Controls
16 - 18 VDC will cause siren output to cease, resume at normal
50 AMPS (supply circuit must be capable of supplying this)
-15° F to +140°F
4-position rotary mode switch (Y->P->W, Mechanical, Standby and Radio).
Momentary push-button Horn switch.
Momentary push-button Manual switch.
Front panel PA and Radio volume controls.
Auxiliary input connection programmable for positive or negative activation.
Cutout input connection programmable for positive or negative latching operation.
Internal 8-Position DIP switch option selector.
Connections (10-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Cutout, Auxiliary
Size
6-1/8" Wide, 5-7/8" Deep, 2-1/8" High
4-1/2 LBS.
Weight
CP5015A
09/09/08
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Page 4 of 12
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
INSTALLATION
Proper installation of the unit is essential for years of safe, reliable operation. Please read all
instruction before installing the unit. Failure to follow these instructions can cause serious dam-
age to the unit or vehicle and may void warranties.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For the safety of the installer, vehicle operator, passengers and the community please observe
the following safety precautions. Failure to follow all safety precautions and instructions may
result in property damage, injury or death.
Qualifications - The installer must have a firm knowledge of basic electricity, vehicle electrical
systems and emergency equipment.
Mounting - Mount the unit for easy access by the vehicle operator. DO NOT mount in air bag
deployment area. Assure clearances before drilling in vehicle. To prevent internal damage
mounting bolts must not enter case more than 1/4".
Wiring - Use wiring capable of handling the current required. Make sure all connections are tight.
Route wiring to prevent wear, overheating and interference with air bag deployment. Install and
check all wiring before connection to vehicle battery.
Testing - Test all siren functions after installation to assure proper operation. Test vehicle opera-
tion to assure no damage to vehicle.
Keep These Instructions - Keep these instructions in the vehicle or other safe place for future
reference. Advise the vehicle operator of the location.
UNPACKING
Inspect contents for shipping damage. If found alert carrier immediately.
Contact supplier immediately if any components are missing.
Contents of box should include the following items:
Qty Item
1
1
1
Amplifier Unit with attached Microphone (SA-500-27 14)
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount (CP3571)
Hardware Kit (ED1558)
(Kit contains 2 Bolts, 1 10-P Term Block Plug, and 1 Mic Clip)
1
Instruction Manual (CP5015 This Manual)
09/09/08
CP5015A
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SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 5 of 12
OPTION SWITCHES
SIDE VIEW
COVER REMOVED
An internal 8-position DIP switch on the cir-
cuit board may be changed to select various
options. The cover for the unit must be re-
moved to access the DIP switch.
Accessing Option Switches - The cover is
held in place by a snap-fastener on the back
of the unit. Hold the unit with the front case
flange on the edge of a hard surface and
press hard on the back of the unit. The chas-
sis will slide out the front of the cover.
OPTION SWITCHES
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Adjusting Option Switches - the DIP Switch is located on
the internal PCB assembly board toward the right side of
the unit. Switch 1 is toward the back of the unit. Switch
‘ON’ position is toward the inside side of the unit.
ON
Default Setting Shown
SW-1 and SW-2 ON
SW-1 Cutout Input Polarity - The cutout input is normally activated with positive. Turn this
switch OFF for negative activation.
SW-2 Auxiliary Input Polarity - The auxiliary input is normally activated with positive. Turn this
switch OFF for negative activation.
SW-3 Auxiliary Input Function - The auxiliary input normally activates the Horn function. Turn
this switch ON to activate the Manual function. (Manual push-button)
SW-4 Two-Tone - Turn this switch ON to replace Phaser with Two-Tone.
SW-5 Manual Wail - The Manual push-button normally operates Manual Mechanical in Standby
mode. Turn this switch ON to operate Manual Wail instead.
SW-6 Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) - Turn ON this switch to enable this feature. Also connect the
auxiliary input to the horn ring or other switch. While the siren is in standby, tap the horn ring to
bring the unit out of standby into Mechanical tone. Repeatedly tapping the horn ring will cycle
through Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones. Tapping the horn ring twice quickly will stop
the siren tones and return the unit to standby. Pressing and holding the horn ring will produce
Horn tone until released. Then the siren will return to its previous siren tone or standby.
SW-7 Wail Default - When the rotary selector switch is changed to Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail mode,
the initial tone is Yelp. Turn this switch ON to make the initial tone Wail.
SW-8 Short Manual - The Manual Mechanical or Manual Wail tone normally falls and dies out
when the Manual push-button is released. Turn this switch ON to have the tone stop immediately.
CP5015A
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Page 6 of 12
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
MOUNTING
The mounting bracket supplied can be installed above or below the unit. Choose a mounting
location convenient to the operator and away from any air bag deployment areas. Inspect behind
mounting area for clearance. Assure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Consider wire
routing and access to connections, as well as microphone bracket placement. Install mounting
bracket to vehicle using 1/4" hardware (not supplied).
If mounting in a rack or console, make sure that mounting bolts do not enter case more than 1/4".
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Electrical connections to the unit are made using a removable terminal block plug located on the
back. A label on the unit identifies the terminal function. You should install the plug on the unit
before wiring. If the unit needs service the plug can be easily removed without unwiring.
The power supply of the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for ade-
quate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the vehicle
battery. The unit is internally fused.
Attach leads by stripping 3/8", inserting into plug and clamp by tightening screw. Make sure the
screw is tight and the wire can't be pulled out. Failure to adequately tighten the screw can
result in improper operation or burning the connector and wire.
Wire Size and Termination - The diagram shows the minimum wire size used for each connec-
tion, along with recommended lead color. If the wire is longer than 10 ft. use the next larger wire
size. Use only high quality crimp connectors for installation on the vehicle.
Radio Input Connection (Optional) - Connect 1 lead to each terminal of the radio speaker or
output connector. The input is isolated and polarity is not important. May need to set Radio Vol-
ume on front of unit.
Auxiliary Input Connection (Optional) - The Auxiliary Input allows activation by an external
source of either the Horn or Manual function. Typically connected to the horn ring circuit of the
vehicle or other momentary switch. May need to set activation polarity.
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.
Cutout Input Connection (Optional) - The Cutout Input turns off any siren tone output when
activated, and remains off until a face control is activated or changed. May need to set activation
polarity. See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
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SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 7 of 12
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS CONTINUED
Horn
Circuit
HORN RLY
Vehicle
Horn
+VDC
or
-VDC
Auxiliary Input
Momentary
Connection Examples
SPST
Switch
Splice
Activated with
+VDC
or
-VDC
+VDC OR -VDC
Added
SPDT
Switch
Note:
Vehicle horn will also
sound with siren
Factory Default
DIP SW-2 ON for +VDC
Vehicle
Horn
To
AUX
To
AUX
To
AUX
DIP SW-2 OFF for -VDC
Door
Switch
Circuit
Dome
Light
Cutout Input
Connection Examples
Momentary
SPST
Switch
Activated with
+VDC OR -VDC
+VDC
or
Splice
-VDC
Factory Default
DIP SW-1 ON for +VDC
To
CUT
To
CUT
DIP SW-1 OFF for -VDC
#22 AWG WHT
(AUX) Auxiliary Input
#22 AWG GRN
(CUT) Cutout Input
Connect to
output jack, terminals
or speaker of radio
#22 AWG BLU (2 LEADS)
#14 AWG RED
(2 LEADS)
RADIO
+
-
BAT
#14 AWG BLK
(2 LEADS)
100W
Speaker(s)
+
-
+
-
#16 AWG BRN
(2 LEADS)
Connect second speaker
for same phase (+ to +)
10-P Terminal Block Plug
Plug installed
this orientation
(CP4688-10)
20A Automotive Type Fuse
is inside unit
Plug into unit first for
terminal identification
CP5015A
09/09/08
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Page 8 of 12
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
OPERATION
GENERAL
This unit is designed for easy operation under the stress associated with high-speed pursuit.
Most siren functions are accessible with one simple motion without repetitive activation of
switches or automatic timed switching that can interfere with desired operation.
SELECTOR SWITCH
The 4-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating
mode of the siren.
Radio - Also known as Radio Repeat, this function amplifies a radio
speaker input for re-broadcast outside the vehicle. No siren tones
or PA operation are available in this mode. The radio must be
connected and radio volume adjusted for this mode to function.
Standby - A silent mode that may be overridden anytime with the
Manual or Horn or PA operation.
Y→P→W
MECH
STBY
RADIO
Mech - A simulated mechanical siren tone used anytime.
Yelp -> Phaser -> Wail - This mode provides tones by pressing the Manual push-button to step
through the tones. The initial tone is Yelp or optionally may be Wail.
See OPTION SWITCHES section.
Wail - A slower changing tone used on highways.
Yelp - A rapidly changing tone used in congested areas.
Phaser - A very rapidly changing tone used at intersections or in highly congested areas. May be
optionally replaced with Two-Tone which is two alternating frequencies like a European HI-LO.
Rotary Operating
Manual
Switch
Horn
Switch
Auxiliary Input
Switch
Mode
Y->P->W
Yelp
Yelp->Phaser->Wail Loop Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option)
(Wail start option)
Mech
Mech
Silent
Manual Mechanical
Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option)
Standby
Manual Mechanical
(Manual Wail option)
Horn Horn Switch (Manual Switch option) (HRC2 option)
Radio
Radio
Radio
Radio Radio
See OPTION SWITCHES section.
MANUAL SWITCH
This momentary push-button switch provides manual tone control
or stepping through tones depending on the selector switch posi-
tion. Manual tone control is used to momentarily alert motorists or
in low noise areas.
MANUAL
HORN
Manual Wail - Manual control of Wail tone rise and fall.
Manual Mech - Manual control of Mech tone rise and fall.
HORN SWITCH
This momentary push-button switch provides a simulated air-horn tone while pressed. This can
be used to supplement the normal vehicle horn and is useful at intersections or in low noise areas.
This tone overrides other siren tones.
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SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 9 of 12
MICROPHONE (PA Override)
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any
siren tone when push-to-talk button on the side of the microphone is pressed.
PA VOLUME CONTROL
With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume to the maximum level
with no feedback (squeal).
VOLUME
H
L
H
L
RADIO VOLUME CONTROL
With the vehicle parked and the radio volume itself set to a nor-
mal level, set the siren radio volume to the desired level.
RAD
PA
AUXILIARY INPUT
During installation an auxiliary input may be connected to the horn ring or other switching device.
It provides the same operation as pressing the Horn button or optionally the Manual button.
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
CUTOUT INPUT
During installation, a cutout input may be connected to a door switch. It turns off any siren tone
when the door is opened. The siren tone will continue to be cut off even when the door is closed.
Changing any switch on the face of the unit will restore normal function.
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (HRC2)
During installation, the auxiliary input must be connected and the HRC2 option selected. While
the siren is in standby, tap the horn ring to bring the unit out of standby into Mechanical tone.
Repeatedly tapping the horn ring will cycle through Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser tones.
Tapping the horn ring twice quickly will stop the siren tones and return the unit to standby. Press-
ing and holding the horn ring will produce Horn tone until released. Then the siren will return to its
previous siren tone or standby.
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
CP5015A
09/09/08
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Page 10 of 12
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
SERVICE
This unit is designed to provide years of reliable service under even the worst conditions. Many
times there may appear to be a problem with the unit when the true problem is in the speaker(s)
or improper installation. The following chart shows typical symptoms and possible causes.
A blown internal fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker lead
is shorted the internal fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and
replace the fuse. If the OUTPUT light comes on (dim lighting to see) with power on and Yelp
selected it is OK. Check the speaker(s) or leads for possible shorting.
PROBLEMS
Symptom
Possible Cause
Check
Does backlighting come on?
No power or siren Power switch not turned on
output
Bad speaker(s)
Do you hear a "pop" when turned on?
Connector loose
Internal fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
High Voltage Protection
Mic button stuck
Is the OUTPUT light on front panel coming on in Yelp?
Is an external fuse or circuit breaker used?
Are the negative leads connected to a good ground?
Input voltage must be less than highest rated voltage.
Does mic button release properly?
No siren tone -
PA works
Cutout activated
Does the siren work when Cutout input is disconnected?
Is the option switch properly configured?
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?
PA is not available in the Radio position
Cutout Polarity Option set wrong
PA volume not set properly
Selector in Radio position
No PA
Distorted siren
sound
Speaker assembly loose
Intermittent Aux Input connection
Low vehicle voltage
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?
Is the Auxiliary Input used and wired properly?
Input voltage must be greater than lowest rated voltage.
Is the vehicle voltage regulator working properly?
Is the connector tight on the back of the unit?
Is there a loose connection on a power lead?
Is something lying on the microphone?
Intermittent siren High Voltage Protection
tone
Connector loose
Bad power connection
Mic button activation
Circuit breaker in supply connection Is a circuit breaker used with at least a 50A rating?
Horn function
or
Manual function Aux Input improperly connected
stuck on
No Radio
Horn switch stuck
Manual switch stuck
Does the Horn switch return fully when released?
Does the Manual switch return fully when released?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Is the option switch properly configured?
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?
Aux Input Polarity Option set wrong
Unit not connected to radio
Radio volume too low
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?
Wrong siren tone Two-Tone option installed
Aux Input set to wrong function
Is the Two-Tone option switch selected?
Is the Auxiliary Input option switch configured properly?
Is the Manual Wail option switch selected?
Manual Wail option installed
or contact our Service Department at:
09/09/08
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SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 11 of 12
PARTS and ACCESSORIES
The following parts and accessories are available from Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.:
Part
Description
CP5017
CP4684
Button, Switch Cap Chrome (for push-button switch)
Control, 1K Vertical w/ Knurled Shaft (PA and Radio Volume)
Cover (not including chassis)
CP4680-1
ATO/ATC 20A
CP4852
Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive
Knob, Selector Switch
CP5016
Label, SA-500-27 Front Panel
CP4750
Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector
Microphone Strain Relief
SR-15-1
CP4685
Switch, Momentary Push Button (Manual and Horn)
Switch, Power Rocker
CP3962
CP4683
Switch, Rotary 4-Pos. Selector
CP4119
Transistor, output (2 required)
Accessory
CP3633
Description
* - standard accessory supplied with unit
*
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount
CP3571
CP3966
ED1756
*
*
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (typically 2 ea required)
Cable, 10-P Lead Assembly 8FT (made w/ CP4688-10 Conn)
Connector, 10-P Terminal Block Plug
CP4688-10
*
ED1558
CP5015
*
*
Hardware Kit (2 Bolts, CP3633 Mic Clip, CP4688-10 Connector)
Manual, SA-500-27 Instruction
or contact our Service Department at:
CP5015A
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Page 12 of 12
SA-500-27 14 Installation and Operating Instructions
RETURN
If you have any questions concerning this or any other Carson product,
please contact our Technical Service Department at (888) 577-6877.
Many issues can be handled over the phone. We can also be reached via
e-mail at [email protected]
If a product must be returned for any reason, please contact our Technical
Service Department to obtain a Returned Merchandise Authorization num-
ber (RMA#) before you ship the product to Carson. Please write the RMA#
clearly on the package near the mailing label. Be sure to provide a return
address, contact and phone number, along with a brief description of the
problem.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc. warrants this new product to be free from defects
in material and workmanship, under normal use and service, for a period of five (5)
years from the date of delivery to the first user-purchaser.
During this warranty period the obligation of Carson Manufacturing is limited to repairing
or replacing, as Carson Manufacturing may elect, any part or parts of such product
which after examination by Carson Manufacturing is determined to be defective in mate-
rial and/or workmanship.
This warranty does not cover labor charges for removal or re-installation of the product.
Fuses and lamps are not covered under this warranty.
This warranty does not extend to any unit that has been subjected to abuse, misuse,
improper installation or which has not been adequately maintained, nor to units which
have problems related to service or modification at any facility other than the manufac-
turer.
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL CARSON MANU-
FACTURING COMPANY, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR ANY
INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY SUCH DEFECT
IN MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP.
09/09/08
CP5015A
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