Page 30
Reference Manual
Macro-Tech
®
24x6 & 36x12 Power Amplifiers
P.I.P.
MODULE
BACK PANEL
OF AMPLIFIER
Fig. 8.1 Installing a PIP Module
∞
∞
+
+
8 Accessories
8.1 PIP Modules
One advantage of Macro-Tech amplifiers is the ability to
customize them using PIP (Programmable Input Proces-
sor) and PIP2 modules. Macro-Tech amplifiers are
equipped with an edge card connector inside the back
panel PIP compartment. The modules install easily:
WARNING: Disconnect power to the amplifier when in-
stalling or removing a PIP module.
PIPs carrying the PIP2 logo are configured to use one or
more of the PIP2 enhanced features. These features are
only available in a PIP2-compatible amplifier. Of course,
the exact features used will depend upon the function of
the PIP2 module. Here are some of the available PIP and
PIP2 modules:
IQ-P.I.P.-DSP
is an IQ System Programmable Input
Processor with DSP (Digital Signal Processing) for PIP-
compatible amplifiers. As a component of the IQ System, it
connects the amplifier to the Crown Bus so the amplifier
can be controlled and monitored. Its DSP capabilities
enable it to be programmed with a variety of functions,
such as filters and crossovers, signal delay, input
compressor and output limiter, and a variety of other useful
features similar to those included with the IQ-P.I.P-SMT.
Requires an IQ2 interface and a computer for initial setup.
IQ-P.I.P.-MEM
Integrates Com-Tech, Macro-Tech and Stu-
dio Reference amplifiers into Crown’s IQ System. Each
channel of each amplifier can be monitored and individu-
ally controlled from an inexpensive PC. A total of 15 func-
tions can be either monitored or controlled. Memory backup
is also incorporated in case of power failure. Requires an
IQ2 interface and a computer for initial setup.
IQ-P.I.P.-SMT
“Smart Amp” offers impressive new features
unavailable elsewhere. The processing speed is substan-
tially enhanced over other designs. A programmable power-
supply gate conserves energy by shutting off the amplifier’s
high-power supplies until an audio signal is present. The
user may define error-reporting conditions of the amplifier.
There is much greater flexibility and thermal operational
protection available, as well as a built-in smooth output lim-
iter to discretely control maximum amplifier output. Requires
an IQ2 interface and a computer for initial setup.
P.I.P.-AMCb
combines many of the features found in the
P.I.P.-XOV and P.I.P.-CLP to provide both a variable 4th-
order Linkwitz-Riley crossover and an IOC-driven or vari-
able-threshold signal-driven compressor. In addition, vari-
able equalization networks provide for “constant-directiv-
ity” horn equalization and filter-assisted B6 vented bass
box equalization. Bi-amping and tri-amping capabilities are
provided via XLR connectors.
P.I.P.-ATNJ
includes the features of the P.I.P.-FXT (balanced
Jensen
®
1:1 isolation transformers) and adds to each chan-
nel a 12-dB/octave RFI filter, a variable 18-dB/octave high-
pass filter (to reduce bass/subsonic frequencies), and a 6-
dB/octave 3-kHz shelving network for “constant-directiv-
ity” horn equalization. Special quick-connect barrier blocks
are provided for inputs to each channel. Also adds a
Jensen
®
32-step precision attenuator to each channel.
