11
VTX A
8
| Rigging Manual
3 - MECHANICAL LIMITS
The VTX A8 suspension system and accessories comply with the 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive and have been designed following
the guidelines of DGUV regulation 17 (BGV-C1) for a minimum safety factor of 4:1. Minimum safety factor requirements for suspended
arrays are often set by local regulations. Use the JBL Line Array Calculator
TM
software to check mechanical limits and ensure compliance
with local regulations. ANSI Standard E1.8 (Entertainment Technology Loudspeaker Enclosures Intended for Overhead Suspension),
Section 5.3.4, specifies a minimum safety factor of 5:1. If compliance with the ANSI standard is needed, make sure that the array design
produces a minimum safety factor of 5:1.
ARRAY FRAME
NOTES
SAFE LIMIT
MAXIMUM LIMIT
VTX A8 AF + EB
VTX A8 Array Frame with Extension Bar attached
(22) A8
(24) A8
VTX A8 SB
(1) Suspension Bar used as an Array Frame (top)
(24) A8
(24) A8
VTX A8 SB X2
(2) Suspension Bars are used (top and bottom)
(12) A8
(24) A8
VTX A8 MF
Arrays using the VTX A8 Mini Frame
(10) A8
(10) A8
3.1 VTX A8 LIMITS - SUSPENDED ARRAY
NOTES:
• LAC-3 allows for array designs with a minimum design factor of 4:1. Anything lower than that is not allowed
• For exact mechanical limits of mixed arrays (A8s suspended under B18s) always check the design with LAC-3
• For mechanical limits when using dual Suspension Bars always check the design with LAC-3
• Safe and maximum limits are only applicable to the specified accessory (i.e. base plate or array frame). When several accessories
are combined (for example, ground-stacked arrays with a base plate and subwoofers underneath), the design should always be
evaluated and checked with LAC-3.
• For additional information on B18 limits, refer to the VTX B18 Rigging Manual
ACCESSORY
NOTES
SAFE LIMIT
MAXIMUM LIMIT
VTX A8 BP
Base plate for ground stacking A8 systems
(2) A8
(8) A8
3.2 VTX A8 - GROUND-STACKED ARRAYS
TERMINOLOGY:
Safe Limit:
The safe limit provides the number of cabinets that can be used in an array while maintaining a safety factor of 4:1 or higher.
The safety factor of an array is determined by the number of cabinets, the array shape, and the overall array angle. An array constructed
within the safe limit will always yield a safety factor greater than 4:1 regardless of array parameters and conditions. Ground-stacked ar-
rays within the safe limit are stable under normal conditions. Designs exceeding the safe limit and up to the maximum limit, are possible,
but the JBL Line Array Calculator software should be used to check mechanical safety for the given configuration.
Maximum Limit:
Arrays larger than the maximum limit are not allowable under any conditions.
CAUTION: Limits for ground-stacked arrays always assume that the stacking surface (floor or stage) is flat . Do not
deploy ground-stacked arrays on non-flat surfaces to avoid tipping hazards .