Zapco C2K - Manual (Page 45)

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Power Endplate Hookups
1. 12 volt Negative, or Ground, Connection
2. 12 volt Positive, Power Connection
3. Switched Power plug
Power Connection: The main power wire for this amplifier should be a 2-
gauge wire from the car battery as a minimum. For long runs we highly
recommend a 0-gauge wire.
While the amp may draw more current than many alternators can
deliver, we recommend a 175-amp ANL fuse at the amp as fail-safe
protection. Failure to properly fuse the amp will void the warrantee. While
the fuse at the amp will protect the amplifier, that much current in the line
from the battery does present a short circuit threat to the vehicle. To insure
the safety of both your vehicle and yourself, we highly recommend a fuse
of 200 amps at the vehicle’s battery in addition to the fuse at the amp.
Proper Configuration
Batt.___fuse_____________________________fuse___Amplifier
200amp 175amp
Ground Connection: The most common problems with high power amp
installations relate to the ground connection. Electricity travels in a circuit
and the amount of current the circuit will conduct is limited by the smallest
piece of conductor in that circuit. Therefore, your ground wire must be
same gauge as your power wire! Anything smaller will restrict your
power output. Also, for the ground connection to be effective, it must have
a clean secure connection to the frame or other structural member.
Many sheet metal parts in cars are isolated from the frame, by rubber or
plastic, to reduce road noise and vibration. These do not make good
ground points. Do not ground to sheet metal.
Switched Power Plug: The switched power plug has two connections.
The first is the turn-on lead from the head unit. This connection wakes up
the amp when 12 volts is applied, from the system. The second connection
is switched 12 volts out. When power is applied to the turn-on wire, it
closes a relay in the amp to provide 12V out to operate as a turn-on for
other amps or accessories in the system and avoid having to add outboard
relays.