PS Engineering
PMA450 Audio Selector Panel and Intercom System
Installation and Operator’s Manual
200-450-0000
Page 1-1
Rev. 6, Dec. 2015
Section I – GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1
INTRODUCTION
The PMA450 represents a revolutionary step in cockpit audio control and intercommunications utility.
IntelliAudio®, using the USAF patented technology, provides True Dimensional Sound, helping pilots to
more easily discern from simultaneous radio receptions. Our patented
IntelliVox®
design, front panel USB
power jack, and pilot programmable configurations, marks this panel as the next level of audio control. The
unit is designed for outstanding ergonomics and visually defined mode annunciation and selection.
Before installing and/or using this product, please read this manual completely. This will ensure that you
will take full advantage of all the advanced features in the PMA450.
1.2
SCOPE
This manual provides detailed installation and operation instructions for the PS Engineering PMA450-
series of Audio Selector Panel/Intercom Systems. This includes the following units:
Model
Description
Part Number
PMA450
Digital Stereo Audio Selector Panel with Marker Beacon,
USB Charging port
050-450-0100
PMA450
Digital Stereo Audio Selector Panel with USB Charging
port
without
Marker Beacon
050-450-0200
1.3
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
The PMA450 is a state-of-the-art audio isolation amplifier and audio selector that contains an automatic
voice activated (VOX) intercom system and integral marker beacon receiver. It can switch two transceivers
(Com 1, Com 2) and six receivers (Nav 1, Nav 2, MKR, and three additional inputs which can be individu-
ally labeled, for use with ADF, DME, AUX, etc.).
Warning
: Use of non-aviation approved cellular telephone equipment may be prohibited by FCC regulation.
PS Engineering is not responsible for unauthorized airborne use of cellular telephones.
For airborne use, the PMA450 must be interfaced with an approved system.
There are four unswitched inputs, available for traffic or EGPWS, autopilot disconnect, and/or radar altime-
ter warning.
Pushbuttons select the receiver audio source provided to the headphones. A SPR button allows the user to
listen to the receiver(s) selected on the cabin speaker. Except for the unswitched inputs, all speaker audio is
muted during transmit. Unswitched inputs 1& 2 are always presented to the aircraft speaker. Unswitched
input 3 & 4 will be presented to the speaker when the front panel SPR push button has been selected.
Pushbutton switches select one of the communication transceivers for the pilot and copilot position, and
allows radio transmission. In "Split Mode" the PMA450 has the ability to allow the pilot to transmit on
Com 1 while the copilot can transmit on Com 2. A fail-safe mode connects the pilot headphone and micro-
phone to COM 1 if power is removed for any reason, or if the power switch is placed in the Off (Fail-safe)
position. Unswitched input #1 is also provided to the pilot headphone (left side headset ear cup) in fail-safe
A six-station voice activated (VOX) intercom is included in the PMA450. This system has PS Engineer-
ing’s patented
IntelliVox®
circuitry that eliminates manual adjustments. The intercom system incorporates
pilot isolate, all and crew modes, two independent stereo music inputs with "SoftMute™". Intercom vol-
ume control is through two concentric front panel knobs and a pushbutton intercom mode switch. The small
volume knob controls the intercom level for the pilot and copilot, while the large knob controls the passen-
ger intercom volume. Intercom squelch is automatic.
A, 75 MHz Marker Beacon receiver and 3-light indicator is integrated in the PMA450 (050-450-0100 on-
ly). This provides the necessary Marker Beacon lights and audio indications necessary for that portion of an