FSR ML-800 - Manual (Page 12)

12 ML-800
GROUNDING
It is strongly recommended that in any rack setup to ensure appropriate power application as
well as superior power surge protection that the FSR Power Conditioning and Sequencing (SPC)
System be utilized.
The ML-800 System, along with the associated mixers, equalizers, and power amplifiers, is a high gain
audio system of some complexity and requires a proper grounding procedure be followed.
The ML-800 equipment has separate audio, digital, and chassis grounds. The digital and audio grounds
come together in the unit. Inside the ML-800RACK on the regulator card there is a ground (chassis)
terminal that is tied to analog ground through a removable jumper. In most installations there is no need
to touch this jumper.
WALLPLATE GROUNDING CONSIDERATIONS
In order to prevent damage to the ML-800 system from ESD (Electro-Static Discharge), it is incum-
bent upon the installer to carefully consider the grounding of the system. Since the ML-800 is a
digital/audio hybrid, proper ground is essential to maintaining audio quality while preventing damage
the electronic circuitry.
The metal faceplate of the ML membrane wallplates (not the touch wallplates) must be grounded to
prevent damage due to ESD events. The best way to guard against ESD damage in any system is to
return the charge to ground by the shortest path possible. A direct connection between the faceplate
and conduit ground is the most desirable method. At the same time, the DC ground of the system
must be kept isolated from conduit ground, or ground loop noise will result.
The ML membrane wallplates are provided with either a ground wire or a ground jumper to allow for
grounding of the metal faceplate. If the electrical mounting boxes are already grounded, the ground
wire must be insulated or the jumper disconnected to prevent a ground loop. If the electrical box is
not grounded, connect the ground wire to the SHIELD terminal of wallplates so equipped. On
wallplates that have a ground jumper, ensure that the jumper is installed. In systems that do not have
grounded electrical boxes, the ESD ground path is through the shield conductor of the recommended
cable, through the ML-800’s connectors, and to the chassis of ML-800 rack unit.
The touch wallplate has a plastic enclosure and mounts in non-grounded back boxes so the ESD
ground path is through the shield conductor of the recommended cable, through the ML-800’s con-
nectors, and to the chassis of ML-800 rack unit.