ARC Audio FD4100 Stereo Amplifier User Manual


 
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Warning
We build all ARC Audio products to play at high volumes for extended periods of time.
Your ears however are not designed for high volume listening. This product can easily
generate volumes that can permanently damage your hearing. We urge you to limit your
exposure to very high volume sound.
You may also find your state has laws governing the volume of an audio system in a car.
Please be aware of all local and state laws in you area.
A properly tuned and operated audio system will deliver years of enjoyment when used
properly.
Installation Instructions
ARC Audio FD Series Amplifiers are designed for easy installation in your vehicle. To
ensure proper operation of your new purchase, please follow the suggestions we have
listed below:
Warning
Please check the suitability of the installation location before you begin. Do not cut any of
the car’s structure. Pay close attention to what is behind the panels or carpet. Often the
manufacture will hide wires, computers or other electronic devices in the exact areas you
wish to install in.
If you do not have experience with automotive electrical and mechanical systems contact a
professional installer. Paying a qualified installer is almost always cheaper then paying a
dealership to repair your car.
Locating the Amplifier
The amplifiers must be securely mounted to a solid surface. Please select a dry location
in the trunk or passenger compartment only. Do not mount the amplifier to any area
that may have excess vibration (like the subwoofer box). Position the amplifier in an area
that receives sufficient airflow for proper heat dissipation.
Congratulations!
Thank you for purchasing an ARC Audio Hi-Performance Amplifier.
ARC Audio amplifiers are conservatively rated and produce more power per channel
than others in there class. Manufactured to the highest standards of quality and
reliability to deliver years of listening enjoyment.
ARC Audio…SOLID CONSTRUCTION for SOUND Car Audio Systems.
Setting the Gains
So you're worried that your 4 Volt output head unit will be too much for the ARC Audio's
2.5 Volt input stage.
Don't Be
ARC Audio Amplifiers input stage is rated to 2.5 volts RMS @ 1KHz without clipping.
Music is very dynamic. Nothing like a 1KHz test tone. It would be rare to see a peak as
high as a test tone. Furthermore, your head unit produces its output at full volume but
when you tune your system you always set the head unit to 70% of maximum volume.
Supplying Enough Power
The Laws of Nature
Your amplifier Does NOT make power. It converts power, or current, from your cars
electrical system and turns it into a high power musical energy. If the amp can't get all
the power it needs it will not produce its full output. Your ARC Audio amplifier will
produce Full output for longer then other amps on the market today. If the Voltage or
Current drops too low even our amplifiers will drop below their rated output. Make sure
your vehicle charging system is in good working order. Any Hi-Performance audio
amplifier will increase the demand on your alternator and battery. If you are unsure have
your charging system tested by a professional technician.
The Ground!!!
Warning: Read this Carefully
The ground wire should be connected directly to the chassis of your vehicle. Find a clear
location close to the amplifier and remove all the paint and sound deadener. Use a #10
or larger screw to secure it. Never use seatbelt bolts for grounding.
Remember, the ground must carry the same high current as the positive power wire. It is
recommended in high power application that you upgrade your vehicles factory battery
ground lead to the frame and engine grounding points to ensure the best possible
circuit to allow you to receive all of the power benefits you new amplifier has to offer.
To reduce the risk of noise, run all signal cable from any vehicle or power supply wiring.
Running the Cables
Carefully run the power and signal cables through the passenger compartment of the
vehicle. Always make sure to use an insulated grommet to prevent the power wire from
shorting when passing any cables thru a metal panel and to reduce the risk of fire.
Always use the proper size power wiring when installing your new amplifier. Depending
on the size of your amplifier a 4 gauge or larger wire should be used for power and
ground connections. It is also advised and recommended that a fuse be installed on the
power wire within 18 inches of the batter or power source for safety.