Page: 18 Model MX88
© 2011 Xantech Corporation
2. The MX88 Speaker Terminals (amplifier outputs) are 4-Ohm compatible. Make sure the combined
impedance presented to the speaker terminals by the speakers (or any combination of speakers) is 4-
Ohms minimum.
3. Be sure to observe correct polarity by connecting the "+" and "–" terminal from each channel on the
MX88 to the corresponding "+" and "–" terminals on each speaker. This will ensure proper speaker
polarity and have the left and right speakers operate “in phase”. These connectors are removable, so
you may unplug them for ease of speaker wire lead assembly.
4. As a rule of thumb, use 18 gauge speaker wire for speaker runs up to 30' (9m), 16 gauge up to 70'
(21m), and 14 gauge up to 150' (39m). The 4-terminal connectors accept wire sizes up to 12-gauge.
5. Strip the insulation back about 1/4" (6mm) and twist the strands on each lead to prevent fraying.
6. Speaker Polarity: To obtain stable imaging and full bass response, it is imperative that stereo speakers
be connected "in phase" with each other. You can verify this as follows:
a) If the "+" (positive) and "–" (negative) terminals on your speakers are correctly marked, and visible,
and you have wired the system with the positive connector on the rear of the MX88
Controller/Amplifier connected to the positive connector on the speaker and the negative connector
on the rear of the MX88 Controller/Amplifier connected to the negative connector on the speaker,
then the system will be "in phase". No further action is required. Most manufacturers identify the
positive terminal with a red binding post, a "+" sign, or a red dot.
b) If you are unsure of the markings, you can verify that your speakers are in phase (but not the
absolute polarity of each speaker). Using a mono sound source, such as AM radio, alternately
reverse the leads to one of the speakers. Pick the connection that delivers a solid center image
between the speakers as well as best bass response.
CAUTION: After lead ends are inserted and the screws tightened down, be sure there are no free
strands that could cause shorting!
MX88 KEYPAD CAT5 CABLE CONNECTIONS AT THE MX88 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER
NOTE: While we use the term CAT5 throughout this manual, CAT5/5e/6/7 may be used to connect the MX88 to
Xantech keypads and touch-panels. Bear in mind that cable quality may reduce maximum lengths quoted
throughout this manual or in the keypad or touch-panel manuals.
The MX88 utilizes „Pin-to-Pin‟ CAT5 cabling for its wired zone controllers (MX-compatible keypad or touch-
panel) that can be purchased pre-fabricated at fixed lengths or self-assembled to custom lengths. The color-
coded wiring standard is EIA/TIA 568B as shown in Figure 4. The plastic connector on the end of the CAT5
wire is “registered jack” RJ45.
1. See Figure 4 for proper termination of the CAT5 cables to the RJ45 connectors.
2. Connect the zone keypad to the appropriate zone Keypad connector on the rear of the MX88
Controller/Amplifier – Figure 3 item 16.
Caution: Operating voltage for the keypad is transmitted along this cable! Incorrect wiring on this cable can
destroy the keypad or the touchpanel! Be sure to test cable for proper connections before making connections.