Unpacking
Connecting Power
Upon unpacking, inspect the
amplifier. If you find any damage,
notify your supplier immediately.
Only the consignee may institute a
claim with the carrier for damage
incurred during shipping. Be sure
to save the carton and all packing
materials. Should you ever need to
ship the unit back to Peavey, one
of its offices, service centers or the
supplier, use only the original fac-
tory packing. If the shipping carton
is unavailable, contact Peavey to
obtain a replacement.
Because of the complexity of the de-
sign and the risk of electrical shock,
all repairs must be completed only
by qualified technical personnel.
Mounting
The PV® 3800 amplifier will
mount in standard 19" racks. Rear
mounting ears are also provided
for additional support, which is
recommended in non-permanent
installations like mobile or touring
sound systems.
The PV 3800 amplifier power re-
quirements are rated at 1/8 power
(typical music conditions) and 1/3
power (extreme music conditions). The
maximum power current draw rating is
limited only by the front panel circuit
breaker. Consult the specifications in
the Specification section for figures on
the current that each amplifier will de-
mand. Make sure the mains voltage is
correct and is the same as that printed
on the rear of the amplifier. Damage
caused by connecting the amplifier to
improper AC voltage is not covered by
any warranty. Unless otherwise speci-
fied when ordered, Peavey amplifiers
shipped to customers are configured
as follows:
Option 1
North America
120VAC / 60 Hz
Option 2
Europe, Asia
230/240VAC / 50 Hz
Option 3
Australia
240VAC / 50 Hz
Option 4
South America
120VAC / 60 Hz or 240VAC / 50 Hz
Operating Precautions
Make sure the mains voltage is correct and the same as that printed on the rear of the amplifier. Damage caused by connect-
ing the amplifier to improper AC voltage is not covered by any warranty. See the Connecting Power section for more informa-
tion on voltage requirements.
Although the PV 3800 amplifier has RAMPUP
™
circuitry, which raises the signal level gradually after the output relay closes,
remember to have the gain controls turned down during power-up to prevent speaker damage if there is a high signal level at
the inputs. Whether you buy or make them, use good-quality connections, input cables and speaker cables, along with good
soldering technique, to ensure trouble-free operation. Most intermittent problems are caused by faulty cables.
Consult the Wire Gauge Chart to determine proper gauges for different load impedances and cable lengths. Remember that
cable resistance robs amplifier power in two ways: power lost directly to resistance (I
2
R loss), and by increasing the total load
impedance, thereby decreasing the power demanded of the amplifier. Also, make sure the mode switch is correctly set for the
desired application. See Sections on Stereo, Parallel and Bridged Mono Mode for more information.
Installation
Always turn off and disconnect the amplifier
from mains voltage before making audio
connections. Also, as an extra precaution, turn the
attenuators down during power-up.
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Cooling Requirements
The PV 3800 amplifier uses a
forced-air cooling system to main-
tain a low, consistent operating
temperature. Air is drawn into the
amplifier by fan(s) on the rear panel,
courses through the cooling fins of
the tunnel-configured channel heat
sink(s), and then exhausts through
the front panel grille. If either heat
sink gets too hot, its sensing circuit
will open the output relay, discon-
necting the load from that particular
channel. The PV 3800 utilizes one
common heat sink and a single fan,
but retains the separate circuitry.
NOTE: Maintain an adequate air
supply at the back of the amplifier
and enough space around the front
of the amplifier to allow the cooling
air to escape. If the amp is rack
mounted, do not use doors or
covers on the front of the rack;
the exhaust air must flow without
resistance. If you are using racks
with closed backs, use fans on the
rear rack panel to pressurize the
rack and ensure an ample air supply.
Make certain that there is enough space around the front and rear of the amplifier to allow the heated air
to escape.
Suggestion: In racks with closed backs, allow at least one standard-rack-space opening for every four
mounted power amplifiers.
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