Parasound HCA-1500A - Manual (Page 4)

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Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of this precision audio component and thank you for your selection of
Parasound. Your HCA-1500A was designed by renowned circuit designer John Curl to meet or surpass
the stringent standards required by Lucasfilm for use in THX Home Cinema systems. Each precision
component within your HCA-1500A is carefully selected for optimum sound quality on even the most
challenging music and film soundtracks.
Parasound amplifiers have greater operational flexibility and power than most other amplifiers you may
have used, so please take a few moments now to read these instructions thoroughly so you may fully
understand the various capabilities of your new Parasound power amplifier.
Unpacking Your Amplifier
Carefully unpack your amplifier and remove all the enclosed accessories including the remote control and
detachable AC cord. Be sure to inspect the unit for any possible shipping damage. If you see any, contact
your Parasound Dealer immediately. Be sure to save both cartons and the packing inserts for future
transport and always pack the inner carton into a protective outer carton before shipment.
Before you proceed, find the serial number located on the rear panel of your unit. Record it here for future
reference. ____________________
Installing and Rack Mounting Your Amplifier
Place your amplifier away from heat sources such as air ducts or radiators. Always mount the amplifier
horizontally and make sure that your cabinet or shelf can support its weight. It is best to provide a separate
shelf for your amplifier rather that stacking it directly above or below your other components.
The HCA-1500A occupies three rack spaces (5 1/4") into a standard 19 inch equipment rack. Be sure to
use heavy duty mounting bolts to and nylon shoulder washers on both sides of the faceplate to avoid
scratching the amplifier’s front panel and prevent ground loops. Call Middle Atlantic Products at
(201) 839-1011 to obtain information about a wide variety of rack mounting hardware. When mounting
equipment into an equipment rack, it is always a good idea to have someone help support the unit while
you bolt it to the rack rails.
Ventilation Requirements for Your Amplifier
To insure safe and reliable operation, it is very important that the amplifier has plenty of ventilation to
prevent overheating and automatic shut down from its thermal protection circuitry. Please observe the
following ventilation guidelines when installing your Parasound amplifier in a cabinet or other enclosed
area: 1) If you are not using a fan, allow at least six inches on each side and above the amplifier, and do
not close off the front with a cabinet door or panel. 2) If you are enclosing the amplifier within an
equipment cabinet, use a fan to draw in cool air and exhaust warm air. In either case, two vent holes are
required: one for intake and one for exhaust. 3) Do not place the amplifier on carpeting that will obstruct
the air flow into the bottom of the amplifier chassis and heatsinks. 4) Avoid stacking components. If you
do, you must use a fan to circulate the warm air that quickly becomes trapped between them.