Carson Manufacturing Co., Inc.
5451 North Rural Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Phone: (888) 577-6877 Fax: (317) 254-2667
SA-400-17
SIREN AMPLIFIER
WITH MECHANICAL TONE
RADIO
SIREN
PA
VOL
STBY
MECH
WAIL
SA-400
O
F
YELP
O
N
F
PHASER
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Carson is a trademark of Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc.
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SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 3 of 12
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SA-400 Siren Amplifier with Mechanical Tone is a premium unit designed for single or dual
100W speaker use. A 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary operating modes of
Radio, Standby, Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and Phaser. Two-Tone may optionally replace Phaser.
A Siren push-button switch is provided for Manual control of the output tone or Horn override,
depending on the selector switch and option switch settings. An independent rocker switch con-
trols power. A permanently mounted noise canceling PA microphone with front panel volume
control overrides all modes except Radio. An internal control is used to adjust Radio volume. An
auxiliary input is provided for connection to a positive or negative horn ring circuit or switch, per-
forming the same function as the Siren push-button. An internal 8-position DIP switch allows
selection of various options. The front panel is backlighted with LED's for night visibility. This
durable unit utilizes short circuit, high voltage, and reverse polarity protection systems for maxi-
mum service life over a wide temperature range.
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 = 435Hz & 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 Temperature
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
6-position rotary mode switch (Radio, Standby, Mechanical, Wail, Yelp, and
Phaser)
Momentary push-button Siren switch.
Front panel mounted PA volume control, internal Radio adjust
Auxiliary input for positive or negative connection.
Internal 8-position DIP switch option selector.
Connections (9-Pin Conn) (2) Positive, (2) Negative, (2) Speaker, (2) Radio, Auxiliary
Size
6-1/8" Wide, 5-3/8" Deep, 2-1/2" High
5-1/2 LBS.
Weight
CP5012A
08/06/08
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Page 4 of 12 SA-400-17 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-400-17 14)
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws (CP3633)
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount (CP3571)
2
1
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (CP3966)
Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT (CP2560)
1
Instruction Manual (CP5012 This Manual)
08/06/08
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SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 5 of 12
OPTION SWITCHES
SIDE VIEW
An internal 8-position DIP switch on the circuit
board may be changed to select various op-
tions. The cover for the unit must be removed
to access the DIP switch.
COVER REMOVED
Accessing Option Switches - The cover is
held in place by a snap-fastener on the back of
the unit. While holding the cover on the sides
press hard with your fingers on the back of the
unit. The chassis will slide out the front.
OPTION SWITCHES
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.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
ON
Default Setting Shown
SW-7 and SW-8 ON
SW-1 Two-Tone - Turn this switch on to replace Phaser with Two-Tone.
.
SW-2 Mechanical Override - Pressing the Siren push-button normally produces Horn tone while
the rotary selector switch is in Mechanical. Turn this switch on to manually override Mechanical
tone instead.
SW-3
SW-4
Siren push-button and Auxiliary Input Function
with Rotary Selector Switch in Standby
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
(Default) Produces Horn tone while pressed.
Manual control of Mechanical tone.
Also Mechanical tone continues to fall when Rotary Selector
Switch is changed from Mechanical Position.
OFF
ON
ON
ON
Manual control of Wail tone.
Activates Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) function.
SW-5 Not Used… Leave Off.
HORN RING CYCLER 2 (HRC2) - Turn on DIP SW-3 and SW-4 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-6
ON
SW-7
OFF
ON
SW-8
OFF
ON
Auxiliary Input Activation Polarity
Positive and Negative Activation (Traditional Auxiliary)
Positive Only Activation (Factory Default)
Negative Only Activation
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
Traditional Auxiliary Input - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is activated with
positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch is required for
proper operation. Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.
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Page 6 of 12 SA-400-17 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 the wiring harness supplied. If the unit needs
service the connector can be easily removed without unwiring the harness.
The power supply for the unit must be capable of delivering peak currents up to 50 amps for
adequate short circuit protection and reliable operation. The preferred source is directly at the
vehicle battery. A fuse on the rear of the unit protects from overload.
Disconnect vehicle battery before making any electrical connections.
Extend leads using adequately sized wiring and terminals or splices.
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
VOLUME ADJUST on side of unit.
Auxiliary Input Connection (Optional) - Used for Siren Control. Performs the same function as
Siren push-button. Typically connected to the horn ring circuit of the vehicle or other momentary
switch. See below for further details on activation polarity.
NOTE: Permanent disconnection of the vehicle horn is NOT recommended.
Traditional Auxiliary Input Activation - On earlier models of the SA-400, the auxiliary input is
activated with positive (+VDC) AND negative (-VDC). A normally open horn ring circuit or switch
is required for proper operation.
Possibly use this setting if the auxiliary input is wired for an earlier SA-400.
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
Polarity Selectable Auxiliary Input Activation - The auxiliary input may be activated with
positive (+VDC) OR negative (-VDC).
See OPTION SWITCHES section for further details.
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SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 7 of 12
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS CONTINUED
HORN RLY
+VDC
or
-VDC
Traditional Activation
Momentary
SPST
Switch
Auxiliary Input
Connection Examples
+VDC
or
-VDC
Added
SPDT
Switch
Activated with
+VDC AND -VDC
Vehicle
Horn
DIP SW-6 ON
SW-7 and 8 OFF
To
AUX
To
AUX
Horn
Circuit
Momentary
SPST
Vehicle
Horn
Polarized Activation
Switch
Auxiliary Input
Connection Examples
+VDC
or
Splice
Activation
-VDC
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF
Activated with
+VDC OR -VDC
Activation
+VDC - DIP SW-8 ON
-VDC - DIP SW-8 OFF
Note:
Vehicle horn will also
sound with siren
DIP SW-6 OFF
SW-7 ON
To
AUX
To
AUX
(AUX)
Auxiliary Input
#18 AWG WHT
Auxiliary Input is
Low input current
Less than 20mA
Extend with #22 AWG
#18 AWG BLU
(2 LEADS)
Connect to
output jack, terminals
or speaker of radio
RADIO
#14 AWG RED Use both leads
Extend pair with #10 AWG
+
-
BAT
100W
Speaker(s)
+
-
+
-
#16 AWG BRN
(2 LEADS)
#14 AWG BLK Use both leads
Extend pair with #10 AWG
Connect second speaker
for same phase (+ to +)
Wiring Harness
(CP2560)
Automotive Type
20 AMP Fuse
Location BLK
(2 Leads)
Location BLU
(2 Leads)
Location WHT
Location BRN
(2 Leads)
Location RED
(2 Leads)
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Page 8 of 12 SA-400-17 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 6-position rotary selector switch controls the primary oper-
ating mode of the siren.
RADIO
STBY
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 position.
The radio must be connected and RADIO VOLUME ADJUSTed
for this mode to function.
MECH
WAIL
Standby - A silent mode that maybe overridden anytime with
the Siren push-button.
YELP
Mech - A simulated mechanical siren tone used anytime.
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. See OPTION SWITCHES section.
PHASER
Rotary Operating
Activate Siren push-button or Auxiliary Input
No Change
Switch
Mode
Radio
Radio
Standby
Silent
Horn (Default) or Manual Mech or Manual Wail or HRC2
(See SIREN SWITCH section)
Mech
Wail
Mech
Wail
Yelp
Horn (Default) or Manual Mech (See SIREN SWITCH section)
Horn
Horn
Yelp
Phaser
Phaser Horn
MICROPHONE (PA Override)
The attached noise-canceling microphone is used for public address operation and overrides any
siren tone when the push-to-talk button on the side of the microphone is pressed.
PA VOL
This control adjusts the PA volume. With the vehicle parked, set the PA volume
to the maximum level with no feedback (squeal).
PA
VOL
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SA-400-17 Installation and Operating Instructions
Page 9 of 12
SIREN SWITCH
This momentary push-button switch provides Horn or Manual tone control.
It can optionally control Horn Ring Cycler 2 operation in the Standby position
if the HRC2 option is selected.
SIREN
Horn - A simulated Air-horn tone momentarily sounded.
Manual Wail - Manual control of Wail tone rise and fall.
Manual Mech - Manual control of Mech tone rise and fall.
The Siren push-button optionally provides the following function while in Standby mode.
See OPTION SWITCHES section.
DIP
SW-3
DIP
SW-4
Siren push-button and Auxiliary Input Function
with Rotary Selector Switch in Standby
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
(Default) Produces Horn tone while pressed.
Manual control of Mechanical tone.
Also Mechanical tone continues to fall when Rotary Selector
Switch is changed from Mechanical Position.
OFF
ON
ON
ON
Manual control of Wail tone.
Activates Horn Ring Cycler 2 (HRC2) function.
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 Siren push-button.
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.
RADIO VOLUME
The radio repeat volume level is set using an adjustment inside the case
just behind the PA volume control. Press on the rear of the case to open
the unit Set the Selector Switch to the Radio position and turn on the
power. With the radio volume itself set to a normal level, set the siren
radio volume adjust control to the desired level. Turn off power and
press the unit back into the case.
RADIO ADJUST
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Page 10 of 12 SA-400-17 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 rear panel fuse doesn't necessarily mean that the unit is bad. If a speaker or speaker
lead is shorted this fuse will blow before the unit is damaged. Disconnect the SPKR leads and
replace the fuse. If the siren emits a sound when in the Yelp position 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
Fuse blown
Loose connection at power source
High Voltage Protection
Mic button stuck
With siren on, yelp selected, listen for tone in amplifier.
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
No PA
PA volume not set properly
Selector in Radio position
Speaker assembly loose
Intermittent Aux Input connection
Low vehicle voltage
Have you tried turning the PA volume control?
PA is not available in the Radio position
Is the speaker bell or tip loose?
Is the Aux 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?
Distorted siren
sound
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 stuck Aux Input improperly connected
on
Siren switch stuck
Does the Siren switch return fully when released?
Is the Aux Input used and wired properly?
Aux Input is activated with positive or negative.
Is the radio connected properly to the unit?
Can you here the radio in the vehicle?
No Radio
Unit not connected to radio
Radio volume too low
Have you tried turning the RAD volume control?
Wrong siren tone Two-Tone option installed
Is the T-T option switch turned on?
or contact our Service Department at:
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SA-400-17 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
CP3965
CP4732
CP3547
Button, Switch Cap Black (for Siren pushbutton)
Control, 1K Vertical Trimmer (Radio Volume)
Control, 350 Ohm Mini-Pot (PA volume)
Cover (not including chassis)
ES00026-03
ATO/ATC 20A
CP4852
Fuse, 20 Amp Automotive
Knob, Selector Switch
CP4853
Knob, PA Volume Control
CP5013
Label, SA-400-17 Front Panel
ED1680
Lead Asmb, Chassis Plug (internal)
Microphone, Noise Canceling w/Connector
Microphone Strain Relief
CP4750
SR-15-1
CP5014
Nut, 1/4-40 Dress (for Siren pushbutton)
Switch, Momentary Push Button, Right Angle (Siren Pushbutton)
Switch, Power Rocker
CP4822
CP3962
CP3548
Switch, Rotary 6-Pos. Selector
CP4119
Transistor, output (2 required)
Accessory
Description
* - standard accessory supplied with unit
CP4899
Bracket, Flush Mounting
CP3633
CP3571
CP3966
CP2560
CP5012
*
*
*
*
*
Bracket, Microphone Clip with mounting screws
Bracket, ‘U’ Dash Mount
Bolts, ‘U’ Mounting Bracket (typically 2 ea required)
Cable Assembly, 9-P Wiring Harness 3FT
Manual, SA-400-17 Instruction
or contact our Service Department at:
CP5012A
08/06/08
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Page 12 of 12 SA-400-17 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.
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