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User manual of Rockford Fosgate PM500X1BD (22 pages)
- PRACTICE SAFE SOUND
- INPUT CLIP REAR SUB FRONT
- REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
- RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
- PLC-OUT PLC-IN
- P500X1BD. P1000X1BD
Table of contents
Dear Customer.
Congratulations on your purchase of the world’s finest brand of car audio products. At Rockford Fosgate we are fanatics about musical reproduc tion at its best. and we are pleased you chose our product. Through years of engineering expertise. hand craftsmanship and critical testing procedures. we have created a wide range of products that reproduce music with all the clarity and richness you deserve.
For maximum performance we recommend you have your new Rockford Fosgate product installed by an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer. as we provide specialized training through Rockford Technical Training Institute (RTTI). Please read your warranty and retain your receipt and original carton for possible future use.
Great product and competent installations are only a piece of the puzzle when it comes to your system. Make sure that your installer is using 100% authentic installation accessories from Rockford Fosgate in your installation. Rockford Fosgate has everything from RCA cables and speaker wire to power wire and battery connectors. Insist on it! After all. your new system deserves nothing but the best.
To add the finishing touch to your new Rockford Fosgate image order your Rockford accessories. which include everything from T-shirts to jackets.
Visit our web site for the latest information on all Rockford products; www.rockfordfosgate.com or. in the U.S. call 1-800-669-9899 or FAX 1-800-398-3985. For all other countries. call +001-480-967-3565 or FAX +001-480-966-3983.
Table of Content
If. after reading your manual. you still have questions regarding this prod uct. we recommend that you see your Rockford Fosgate dealer. If you need further assistance. you can call us direct at 1-800-669-9899. Be sure to have your serial number. model number and date of purchase available when you call.
Safety
This symbol with “WARNING” is intended to alert the user to the presence of important instructions. Failure to heed the instructions will result in severe injury or death.
This symbol with “CAUTION” is intended to alert the user to the presence of important instructions. Failure to heed the instructions can result in injury or unit damage.
• To prevent injury and damage to the unit. please read and follow the
• If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself. have it installed
• Before installation. disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to
Introduction
+2020 Rockford Corporation. All Rights Reserved. ROCKFORD FOSGATE. PUNCH. and associated logos where applicable are registered trademarks of Rockford forporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Specifications subject to change without notice.
PRACTICE SAFE SOUND
Continuous exposure to sound pressure levels over 100dB may cause
2 Introduction
3 Specifications
4-5 Design Features
6-17 Installation
Installation Considerations
Mounting Locations
Battery and Charging
Wiring the System
18-19 Operation
Clip Indicator Setup
Adjusting Crossover Frequency
2/4 Channel Switch
Subwoofer Input Switch
Infrasonic Filter
Punch EQ
20 Troubleshooting
21 Limited Warranty Information
Design Features
Power/Protect LED
Power LED illuminates blue when the unit is turned on. Protect LED illuminates yellow if a short circuit or to low of an impedance is detected at the speaker connections. Thermal LED illuminates red when amplifier overheats. The amplifier will automatically shut down if this occurs.
Output Clip Indicator Chart
Reference chart for the output clip in dicator LED illumination color during input level setup.
Speaker Terminals
The Speaker Terminals are nickel-plated captive c-clamp wire connectors (+ and -) will accommodate 8 AWG.
RCA Input/Pass-Thru
The RCA inputs are capable of accepting signal from either high-level(speaker) to low level(RCA). When utilizing high-level for input signal the auto turn-on feature is active.
The pass-thru RCA’s are passive. including full input signal range and auto turn-on functionality when active.
Subwoofer Input
Setting this switch to the “On” position. utilizes the “Sub” inputs. (PM1000X5)
Centering Indicators
Indicators are located on the bottom side of the amplifier.
Output Clip Indicator
The output clip indicator works in conjunction with the input level knob. illuminating to appropriate color depending on the audio content used for the setup.
Intput Clip Indicator
The input clip indicator works in con junction with the audio source volume knob. illuminating red when audio source reaches it’s clipping point.
Input Level Knob
The input level control is used to match the output of the audio source.
INPUT CLIP REAR SUB FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
REM GND
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
FRONT REAR
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
INPUT
CH. - 4CH.
Design Features
Punch EQ
A Gyrator based Punch EQ that eliminates frequency shift with boost. This works along with the crossover switch on the amplifier.
Power/REM Terminals
The power and ground will accommodate 4 AWG. while the remote will accommodate 12 AWG.(The REM terminal is used to remotely turn-on and turn-off the amplifier when +12V DC is applied.)
2/4 Channel Switch
Setting this switch to the 2CH. position. switches the in puts to a 2-channel mode. allowing connection to only the front inputs with a 4-channel output. (PM400X4. PM600X4. PM1000X5)
Crossover Switch
Selectable switch for High-Pass (HP) or All Pass (AP) or Low-Pass (LP)
Variable Crossover
Is a built-in 12dB/octave Butterworth filter with a crossover point variable from 50Hz to 250Hz.
Remote Punch Level Control - In/Out
Remotely control the output level of the amplifier. The PLC-OUT is used to daisy-chain additional amplifiers controlled by a single remote.
Infrasonic Filter
A fixed 28Hz 12dB/octave filter designed to prevent frequencies below the audio range from being applied to the subwoofer from the amplifier. Consequently improving subwoofer performance and power han dling. particularly in vented enclosures. (PM500X1bd. P10001BD. PM1000X5)
Remote Punch Level Switch
When activated. this allows the use of a optional remote Punch Level Controller. (PM500X1bd. P10001BD. PM1000X5)
INPUT CLIP REAR SUB FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
REM GND
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
FRONT REAR
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
INPUT
CH. - 4CH.
Contents
Installation Considerations
The following is a list of tools needed for installation:
This section focuses on some of the vehicle considerations for installing your new amplifier. Pre-planning your system layout and best wiring routes will save installation time. When deciding on the layout of your new system. be sure that each component will be easily accessible for making adjustments.
If you feel unsure about installing this system yourself. have it installed by a qualified technician.
Before installation. disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit. fire and/or possible injury.
Before beginning any installation. follow these simple rules:
1. Be sure to carefully read and understand the instructions before
2. For safety. disconnect the negative lead from the battery prior to
3. For easier assembly. we suggest you run all wires prior to mounting
4. Route all of the RCA cables close together and away from any high
5. Use high quality connectors for a reliable installation and to minimize
• Fuse-holder and fuse. (See
• Volt/Ohm Meter
• Wire strippers
• Wire crimpers
• Wire cutters
• #2 Phillips screwdriver
• Battery post wrench
• Hand held drill w/assorted bits
• Assorted connectors
• Adequate Length—Red Power
Wire
• Adequate Length—Remote
Turn-on Wire
• Adequate Length—Black
Grounding Wire
6. Think before you drill! Be careful not to cut or drill into gas tanks. fuel
7. Never run wires underneath the vehicle. Running the wires inside the
8. Avoid running wires over or through sharp edges. Use rubber or
9. ALWAYS protect the battery and electrical system from damage with
10. When grounding to the chassis of the vehicle. scrape all paint from
Mounting Locations
To ensure optimal performance. mount the amplifier with at least 1” (2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier’s heat sink to provide proper cooling.
Amplifier Centering Indicators
Centering indicators have been incorporated into the amplifier’s heatsink to aid in the installation process.
Trunk Mounting
Mounting the amplifier vertically or inverted will provide adequate cooling of the amplifier. Mounting the amplifier on the floor of the trunk will provide the best cooling of the amplifier.
Passenger Compartment Mounting
Mounting the amplifier in the passenger compartment will work as long as you provide a sufficient amount of air for the amplifier to cool itself. If you are going to mount the amplifier under the seat of the vehicle. you must have at least 1” (2.54cm) of air gap around the amplifier’s heat sink.
Never mount this unit in the engine compartment. Mounting the unit in the engine compartment will void your warranty.
Battery and Charging
Amplifiers will put an increased load on the vehicle’s battery and charging system. We recommend checking your alternator and battery condition to ensure that the electrical system has enough capacity to handle the increased load of your stereo system. Stock electrical systems which are in good condition should be able to handle the extra load of any Prime Series amplifier without problems. although battery and alternator life can be reduced slightly. To maximize the performance of your amplifier. we suggest the use of a heavy duty battery and an energy storage capacitor.
Installation
• Punch Amplifier
• Mounting Hardware
• Allen Wrench
• Quick Setup Guide
• Test tones available for
Installation
NOTE: When utilizing high-level for input signal the auto turn-on feature is active. With the auto turn-on active. the REM becomes an output to turn on/off up to two additional amplifiers or other accessories.
7. Securely mount the amplifier to the vehicle or amp rack. Be careful not
8. Connect from source signal by plugging into the RCA input jacks
NOTE: All “ACTIVE” inputs must have RCA jacks connected. Switch in CH. position. ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only. Switch in 4CH. position. ACTIVE” - All Front and Rear channel inputs. Switch in FRONT. position. ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only for sub output. Switch in SUB position. ACTIVE” - Sub inputs for sub output. When connecting to the 5-Channel inputs. be sure to route front. rear and sub RCA cables tightly together.
Always ensure power is off or disconnected at the amplifier before connecting RCA cables.
Failure to do so may cause damage to the amplifier and/or connected components.
9. Connect the speakers. Strip the speaker wires 1/2” and insert into the
10. Perform a final check of the completed system wiring to ensure that all
NOTE: Follow the diagrams for proper signal polarity.
This amplifier is not recommended for impedance loads below 2-Ohm stereo/4-Ohm bridged for the multi-channel amplifiers and 1-ohm for mono amplifiers.
Wiring the System
If you do not feel comfortable with wiring your new unit. please see your local Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer for installation.
Before installation. disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal to prevent damage to the unit. fire and/or possible injury.
Avoid running power wires near the low level input cables. antenna. power leads. sensitive equipment or harnesses. The power wires carry substantial current and could induce noise into the audio system.
1. Plan the wire routing. Keep RCA cables close together but isolated
2. Prepare the RED wire (power cable) for attachment to the amplifier by
NOTE: The B+ cable MUST be fused 18” or less from the vehicle’s battery.
Install the fuse holder under the hood and ensure connections are water tight.
3. Trim the RED wire (power cable) within 18” of the battery and splice in
4. Strip 1/2” from the battery end of the power cable and crimp an
5. Prepare the BLACK wire (Ground cable) for attachment to the amplifier
NOTE: Keep the length of the BLACK wire (Ground) as short as possible.
Always less than 30”.
6. Prepare the Remote turn-on wire for attachment to the amplifier by
2-Channel (Stereo) PM300X2. PM400X2. PM500X2
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT
LEFT PASS-THRU
PLC-OUT
INPUT
PLC-IN
INPUT
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP
REM GND
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
4-Channel (Stereo) PM400X4. PM600X4
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT LEFT
FRONT REAR
BRIDGED
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP PASS-THRU REAR FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
REM GND
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
4-Channel (2ch Stereo & 1ch Mono-Bridged) PM400X4. PM600X4
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT LEFT
FRONT REAR
BRIDGED
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP PASS-THRU REAR FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
REM GND
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
4-Channel (2ch Mono-Bridged) PM400X4. PM600X4
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT LEFT
FRONT REAR
BRIDGED
RIGHT LEFT BRIDGED
SPEAKERS
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP PASS-THRU REAR FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
REM GND
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
Parallel Wiring (Full Range Capable) PM300X1
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT
LEFT PASS-THRU
PLC-OUT
INPUT
PLC-IN
INPUT
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
SPEAKERS INPUT CLIP
REM GND
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
Mono Wiring PM300X1. PM500X1bd. PM1000X1bd
Installation
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
+Positive(+) and Negative(–) outputs are wired in parallel internally.
P300X1. P400X1
P500X1BD. P1000X1BD
RIGHT
LEFT PASS-THRU
PLC-OUT
INPUT
PLC-IN
INPUT
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
SPEAKERS INPUT CLIP
REM GND
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
Installation
Parallel Wiring PM500X1bd. PM1000X1bd
PASS-THRU Connect to inputs of 2nd amplifier
+Installation option for multi-amp install
RIGHT
LEFT PASS-THRU
PLC-OUT
INPUT
PLC-IN
INPUT
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
SPEAKERS INPUT CLIP
REM GND
Optional Input Accessory
Left (+) Left (–) Right (+) Right (–)
Input Clip Indicator Setup
Step 1.
Be sure to disconnect all speakers from the amplifier.
Failure to comply may cause damage to connected components and/or amplifier.
Step 2.
Turn on the source unit with volume set to zero.
Step 3.
Adjust the Bass & Treble levels on the source unit to flat.
Step 4.
Download test tones at https://rftech.custhelp.com/app/answers/ detail/aid/1126/. Scroll to the bottom of the page and download your preferred format.
Note: Use the 40Hz @ 0dB tone (Track 5) for mono amplifier applications or the 1kHz @ 0dB tone (Track 7) for multi-channel amplifier applications.
Be sure your x-over is switched to the appropriate filter setting.
Step 5.
Increase the source unit volume until the Input Clip Indicator illuminates red.
Note: Input Clip can be viewed remotely with optional PLC2.
Step 6.
Decrease the source unit volume slightly until the light turns completely off. This establishes your maximum source unit volume for adjusting the Output Clip Indicator.
Note: Some source units will not clip.
Output Clip Indicator Setup
Step 7.
Be sure to disconnect Punch Level Control - PLC (if equipped) from the amplifier.
Step 8.
Adjust the Input Level knob until the Output Clip Indicator illuminates to the appropriate color. Repeat for all channel levels of input.
Step 9.
Turn the source unit volume down.
Step 10. Reconnect all speakers and Punch Level Control
PLC (if equipped) to the amplifier. Be sure to maintain proper speaker polarity.
Operation
Volume
Volume
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP PASS-THRU REAR FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
REMOTE PUNCH LEVEL
INPUT CLIP PASS-THRU REAR FRONT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
PLC-OUT PLC-IN
Volume
Volume
Pass Thru
The pass-thru RCA’s are passive. including full input signal range and auto turn-on functionality when active. When utilizing Pass Thru jacks. up to two additional amplifiers can be connected together.
Infrasonic Filter
The 28Hz 12dB/octave infrasonic filter limits the amount of low frequency information going to the woofer.
NOTE: We recommend using the infrasonic filter when using vented enclosures with this amplifier.
Punch EQ
This works along with the crossover switch on the amplifier. When set to Low-Pass (LP) operation. this is a variable Bass Boost. When set to High Pass (HP) operation. this is a variable Mid-Bass and Treble Boost. When set to All-Pass (AP) operation. both the Bass and Treble frequencies are boosted. Set this to your personal preference while listening to the system.
Over excursion and subsequent damage may occur at high levels of boost.
Remote Punch Level Control (Option)
NOTE: Previous (prior to 2013) PEQ. Punch Bass and Para-Punch remotes will not work with these amplifiers.
Quick Install:
1. Using the screws supplied. install the mounting clip.
2. Slip the remote onto the mounting clip until it snaps into place.
3. Route and connect the cable to the remote and amplifier.
Operation:
4. When connected. the “Level Control” is linked and allows you to
NOTE: Use the instructions that came with the remote for a variety of mountings that fit your preference.
Adjusting Crossover Frequency
Do the following individually for each channel.
Placing the crossover switch in the HP position sets the amplifier to the High Pass mode. enabling frequencies above the cut-off point to pass. adjustable between 50-250Hz.
Placing the crossover switch in the AP position sets the amplifier to the All Pass mode. preventing any crossover adjustment. allowing all frequencies to pass.
Placing the crossover switch in the LP position sets the amplifier to the Low Pass mode. enabling frequencies below the cut-off point to pass. adjustable between 50-250Hz.
Turn the crossover adjustment knob all the way down. With the system playing. turn the crossover adjustment knob up slowly until the desired crossover point is achieved.
2/4 Channel Switch
Setting this switch to the 2CH. position. switches the inputs to a 2-channel mode. allowing connection to only the front inputs with a 4-channel output.
Output controls function the same as if the amplifier was in 4-channel mode.
All “ACTIVE” inputs must have RCA jacks connected.
Switch in 2CH. position. ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only.
Switch in 4CH. position. ACTIVE” - All Front and Rear channel inputs.
NOTE: When connecting to the 4-Channel inputs. be sure to route both front and rear RCA cables tightly together.
Subwoofer Input Switch (PM1000X5)
Setting this switch to the Off position. utilizes the front inputs. allowing connection to only the front inputs with a subwoofer output. Setting this switch to the On position uses sub input.
Output controls function the same as if the amplifier was in 5-channel mode.
All “ACTIVE” inputs must have RCA jacks connected.
Switch in FRONT. position. ACTIVE” - Front channel inputs only for sub output. Switch in SUB position. ACTIVE” - Sub inputs for sub output.
NOTE: When connecting to the 5-Channel inputs. be sure to route front. rear and sub RCA cables tightly together.
High Level Input
Connect from source signal by plugging into the RCA input jacks at the amplifier. The input sensitivity ranges from 150mV-12V to accommodate signal from high-level(speaker) input. When utilizing high-level for input
Operation
Troubleshooting
NOTE: If you are having problems after installation follow the Troubleshooting procedures below.
Check Amplifier for proper connections. Verify that POWER light is on. If POWER light is on skip to Step 3. if not continue.
1. Check in-line fuse on battery positive cable. Replace if necessary.
2. Check fuse(s) on amplifier. Replace if necessary.
3. Verify that Ground connection is connected to clean metal on the
4. Verify there is 9 to 14.4 Volts present at the positive battery and
Protect light is on.
1. If the Protect light is on. this is a sign of a possible short in the
Check Amplifier for audio output.
1. Verify good RCA input connections at stereo and amplifier. Check
2. Disconnect RCA input from amplifier. Connect RCA input from test
Check Amplifier if you experience Turn-on Pop.
1. Disconnect input signal to amplifier and turn amplifier on and off.
2. If the noise is eliminated. connect the REMOTE lead of amplifier to
1. Use a different 12 Volt source for REMOTE lead of amplifier.
Troubleshooting
Check Amplifier if you experience excess Engine Noise.
1. Route all signal carrying wires (RCA. Speaker cables) away from
1. Bypass any and all electrical components between the stereo and the
1. Remove existing ground wires for all electrical components. Reground
1. Add secondary ground cable from negative battery terminal to the
1. Have alternator and battery load tested by your mechanic. Verify good
Remote not functioning.
1. BD amplifiers remote switch in “ON” position.
2. Remote plugged into remote PLC “IN” port
Remote Lights not functioning.
1. Remote plugged into remote PLC “IN” port
Rockford Corporation offers a limited warranty on Rockford Fosgate products on the following terms: Length of Warranty
POWER Amplifiers – 2 Years BMW Direct Fit Speakers – 2 Years PUNCH & PRIME Amplifiers – 1 Year Speakers. Signal Processors. Accessories and Capacitors – 1 Year All marine. motorcycle. motorsport products - 2 Years Any Factory Refurbished Product – 90 Days (receipt required)
What is Covered
This warranty applies only to Rockford Fosgate products sold to consumers by authorized Rockford Fosgate dealers in the United States of America.
Products purchased by consumers from an Authorized Rockford Fosgate Dealer in another country are covered only by that country’s Distributor and not by Rockford Corporation.
Who is Covered
This warranty covers only the original purchaser of Rockford product purchased from an authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer in the United States. In order to receive service. the purchaser must provide Rockford with a copy of the receipt stating the customer name. dealer name. product purchased and date of purchase.
Products found to be defective during the warranty period will be repaired or replaced (with a product deemed to be equivalent) at Rockford’s discretion.
What is Not Covered
1. Damage caused by accident. abuse. improper installation. operations. theft. water (on non-Element Ready products).
2. Any cost or expense related to the removal or reinstallation of product.
3. Service performed by anyone other than Rockford or an authorized Rockford Fosgate service center.
4. Any product which has had the serial number defaced. altered. or removed.
5. Subsequent damage to other components.
6. Any product purchased outside the U.S.
7. Any product not purchased from an authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer. Refer to rockfordfosgate.com dealer locator for more detail.
Limit on Implied Warranties
Any implied warranties including warranties of fitness for use and merchantability are limited in duration to the period of the express warranty set forth above. Some states do not allow limitations on the length of an implied warranty. so this limitation may not apply. No person is authorized to assume for Rockford Fosgate any other liability in connection with the sale of the product.
How to Obtain Service
Please call 1-800-669-9899 for Rockford Customer Service. You must obtain an RA# (Return Authorization number) to return any product to Rockford Fosgate. You are responsible for shipment of product to Rockford.
EU Warranty
This product meets the current EU warranty requirements. see your Authorized dealer for details.
Warranty
Newest Added: PM400X2 PM300X2 PM300X1 P560 P400X2
Tags: Rockford Fosgate P500 12
