Wiring, 1 avoiding ground loops, 1 what is a ground loop – KLING & FREITAG K&F CA 1515-9 - SP User Manual

Page 20: 2 avoiding ground loops

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User's Manual

‘SP’ Models based upon the CA Series

KLING & FREITAG GMBH ©2003 - 2014

Version 7.1, 09.09.2014

Page 20 of 52

8. Wiring

Before connecting your SP system as shown in chapter 9, be sure to switch off all con-
nected appliances and turn down all level controls.

− We recommend the use of high-quality cables provided by KLING & FREITAG.

− For connections to the line level inputs, please use 2-pin shielded microphone cable

with high-quality connectors.

− Avoid ground loops

− Make sure that the pin assignment of the line level connectors is correct (2 + / 3 - / 1

┴).

8.1 Avoiding Ground Loops

8.1.1 What is a Ground Loop?

Every component of a P.A. or Hi-Fi System has its own internal 0V reference (ground). This
point is often connected to the protective earth connector (PE / Ground). If two or more
units are connected to one another with a line level audio cable, there may be a ground
connection through the ground of the power supply cable (yellow-green) as well as
through the shielding of the audio cable. The voltage difference between these two
ground points causes audible interference to come from the speaker.

8.1.2 Avoiding Ground Loops

If there is a loud humming or buzzing after the ‘SP’ System has been connected, then
set the ‘Ground Lift’ switches on the rear of the ‘SP’ speakers to the ‘Lift’ position (chap-
ter:3 / section 2).

If the noise is still audible, check if

1. the noise is caused by a ground loop before the speakers (e.g. mixing console,

effects or equalizers).

2. the system or parts of the system are connected to an ‘unclean’ power supply -

meaning one which is also running large motors or lighting systems. An ‘un-
clean’ supply voltage, electrostatic and electromagnetic fields can cause inter-
ference.

Please observe the following basic rules:

Never !!! try to avoid a ground loop by disconnecting or taping the ground

contact at the connector! Extremely dangerous!

− If possible, only use high-quality audio appliances with balanced signal outputs and

power cables with PE connectors.

− Use high-quality cables with good shielding.
− The point of ground for all connected components should merge at one central

point. The power connections should lead out in a radial manner from one point
and not be linked from one unit to the next.

− When installing appliances that create strong electrostatic or electromagnetic fields

(large transformers, switch-mode power supplies), maintain some distance from
other audio appliances. In extreme cases, the only solution is to create a completely
independent ‘audio ground’; in other cases, it is sufficient to connect a filter in front
of the audio equipment.

Warning

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