Troubleshooting - Cadence QSA-8.2 User Manual

Troubleshooting

If you experience operation or performance problems with this product, compare your
installation with the electrical wiring diagram on the previous pages. If problems persist,
read the following troubleshooting tips which may help eliminate the problems.
SYMPTOM
Amplifier will not
power up
Protection LED
comes on when
amplifier is
powered up
No output
Low output
High hiss in the
sound
Squealing noise
is present
Distorted sound
Amplifier gets
very hot
Engine noise
(static type)
Engine noise
(alternator whine)
POSSIBLE REMEDY
Check to make sure you have a good ground connection.
Check that the Remote Input (Turn-On) has at least 3VDC.
Check that there is battery power on the (+) terminal.
Check that there is at least 12v.
Check the fuse, replace if necessary.
Make sure that the Protection LED is not illuminated. If it is lit, shut off
the amplifier briefly, and then repower it.
Check for short circuits on speaker leads.
Turn down the volume control on the head unit to prevent overdriving.
Remove speaker leads, and reset the amplifier. If the Protection LED still
comes on, then the amplifier is faulty and needs servicing.
Check that all fuses are OK.
Check that the unit is properly grounded.
Check that the Remote Input (Turn-On) has at least 3V DC.
Check that the RCA audio cables are plugged into the proper inputs.
Check all speaker wiring.
Reset the Level Control.
Check the Crossover Control settings.
Disconnect all RCA inputs to the power sub's control panel. If the hiss
disappears, then plug in the component driving the amplifier and unplug
its inputs. If the hiss disappears at this point, go on until the faulty/noisy
component is found.
It is best to set the amplifier's input level control as low as possible. The
best subjective signal-to-noise ratio is achieved in this manner. Try to
set the head unit as high as possible (without distortion) and the amp
input level as low as possible.
Check for improperly grounded RCA interconnects.
Check that the Input Level Control is set to match the signal level of the
head unit. Always try to set the Input Level as low possible.
Check that all crossover frequencies are properly set.
Check for short circuits on the speaker leads.
Check that the minimum speaker impedance for the amp model is correct.
Check that there is good air circulation around the amp. In some
applications, it may be necessary to add and external cooling fan.
This is usually caused by poor quality RCA cables, which can pick up
radiated noise. Use only the best quality cables, and route them away
from power cables.
Check that the RCA grounds are not shorted to the vehicle chassis.
Check that the head unit is properly grounded.
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