Bose Lifestyle 5 Service Manual

The Bose Lifestyle 5 is a premium home theater system featuring a main control unit, powered Acoustimass module, five cube satellite speakers, and a universal remote. This service manual provides detailed technical information for installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and repair. Below are key sections covering system overview, installation procedures, technical specifications, operational controls, connection diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and maintenance guidelines.

1. System Overview & Features 2. Installation & Setup 3. Technical Specifications 4. Controls & Remote Operation 5. Connection Diagrams 6. Configuration & Calibration 7. Diagnostic Procedures 8. Disassembly & Component Replacement 9. Firmware & Software 10. Safety & Compliance 11. Troubleshooting Guide

System Overview & Features

Key components: Main Control Unit (Lifestyle® 5 Media Center), Powered Acoustimass® Module (bass), Five Direct/Reflecting® Cube Satellite Speakers, Universal Remote Control, IR Emitter, Power Cords, Connection Cables.

ComponentDescription
Main Control UnitCentral processor with AM/FM tuner, audio/video inputs, system control
Acoustimass ModulePowered bass unit with built-in amplifier
Cube Satellite SpeakersFive small speakers for front, center, and surround channels
Universal RemoteControls system and compatible external devices
IR EmitterExtends remote control signal to components inside cabinets
Audio InputsAnalog (RCA), digital optical, coaxial
Video InputsComposite, S-Video, component video
OutputsSpeaker terminals, subwoofer output, video monitor output
Power SupplyInternal switching power supply, 120V AC, 60Hz
Protection CircuitsOver-current, over-temperature, short-circuit protection

Installation & Setup

Unpack and verify all components. Place control unit in well-ventilated area.

  1. Connect speakers: Use color-coded cables to connect cube speakers to control unit terminals.
  2. Connect Acoustimass module: Use provided cable to link module to control unit.
  3. Connect audio/video sources: Use appropriate cables (RCA, optical, etc.) to source devices.
  4. Connect to TV/monitor: Use video output to display on-screen menu.
  5. Plug into AC power and power on.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around control unit. Do not place speakers near heat sources.

Technical Specifications

Controls & Remote Operation

Front Panel Controls: POWER, INPUT SELECT, VOLUME, TUNER PRESETS. Display: LED indicators for input, status, clock.

Remote Control: POWER, NUMERIC (0-9), INPUT SELECT, VOLUME UP/DOWN, MUTE, MENU, NAVIGATION (up/down/left/right, ENTER), PLAYBACK CONTROLS (play, pause, stop, etc.), TUNER BAND (AM/FM), PRESETS.

On-Screen Menu: Access via MENU button. Settings: Speaker setup (size, distance), audio mode (Movie, Music, Direct), tuner setup, input configuration, system preferences. Remote Programming: Can learn codes from other remotes to control external devices.

Connection Diagrams

Standard Connection: Sources (DVD, cable box) → Control Unit Inputs → Control Unit Outputs → Speakers & TV.

  1. Speaker Connection Diagram: Color-coded terminals (Front L/R: White/Red, Center: Green, Surround L/R: Blue/Gray) to corresponding speakers.
  2. Acoustimass Module Connection: Dedicated cable from control unit "Acoustimass" port to module input.
  3. Digital Audio Connection: Optical cable from source to "Digital In" on control unit.
  4. Video Connection: Component video (YPbPr) from source to control unit, composite video from control unit to TV.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for optimal audio/video performance. Ensure all connections are secure.

Configuration & Calibration

Use on-screen menu for system optimization.

  1. Speaker Setup: Select speaker size (Small/Large), set distance from listening position (in feet/meters).
  2. Audio Calibration: Run auto-calibration with included microphone (if applicable) or manual level adjustment.
  3. Input Assignment: Name inputs (e.g., "DVD," "Cable"), assign audio type (Analog, Digital).
  4. Tuner Setup: Auto-scan for AM/FM stations, save to presets.
  5. Audio Modes: Select Movie for surround sound, Music for stereo enhancement, Direct for unprocessed audio.
  6. Lock Settings: Set parental lock or settings lock if required.

Note: Default master code for locked settings is often 0000 or 1111. Refer to unit-specific documentation.

Diagnostic Procedures

Built-in diagnostics: Access service menu by holding specific buttons on unit during power-up (procedure varies).

LED Error Codes: Flashing patterns indicate specific faults (e.g., thermal shutdown, short circuit, processor error).

Test Tones: Generate test tones through each speaker channel to verify output and balance.

Voltage Checks: Measure DC voltages at key test points on power supply and amplifier boards.

Disassembly & Component Replacement

CAUTION! Disconnect AC power before disassembly. Use proper ESD precautions.

  1. Remove top cover: Unscrew screws on bottom/back, slide cover off.
  2. Access main board: Disconnect internal ribbon cables and connectors.
  3. Power Supply Board: Identify and test fuses, regulators, switching transistors.
  4. Amplifier Section: Check output transistors, thermal sensors, protection circuits.
  5. Front Panel Board: Check buttons, display, IR sensor.
  6. Reassembly: Reverse order, ensuring all cables are securely reconnected.

WARNING! High voltages may be present on power supply board even after unplugging. Allow time for capacitors to discharge.

Firmware & Software

Firmware updates may be available for feature enhancements or bug fixes.

Update Procedure (if applicable): Requires connection to a PC via serial/USB service port and proprietary software. Not typically user-serviceable.

Software Tools: Bose service software for diagnostics and configuration (authorized service centers only).

Safety & Compliance

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with limits for residential use. UL Listed. CE Marked.

Safety Standards: Designed to meet UL 60065, IEC 60065. Contains no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer to qualified service personnel.

Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose, Lifestyle, Acoustimass, Direct/Reflecting are registered trademarks of Bose Corporation.

For technical support or service, contact Bose Customer Service: 1-800-999-2673 or www.bose.com.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power (no lights)Power cord, outlet, internal fuseCheck power cord connection; test outlet; check/replace internal fuse (service required).
No sound from speakersMute, volume, input selection, speaker wiresCheck mute; increase volume; select correct input; verify speaker wire connections.
No sound from one speakerFaulty wire, speaker, or amplifier channelSwap speaker with another channel to isolate problem to wire, speaker, or unit.
Acoustimass module not workingConnection, module power, settingsCheck cable to control unit; ensure module is powered on; check subwoofer level in menu.
Remote not workingBatteries, IR path, sensorReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to IR sensor on unit; test remote with camera phone.
No video from on-screen menuVideo cable, TV inputCheck video cable from control unit to TV; ensure TV is on correct input.
Distorted soundOverload, source, amplifier faultReduce volume; test with different source; if persists, possible amplifier issue (service).
Unit shuts off unexpectedlyOverheating, short circuitEnsure ventilation; check for speaker wire shorts; allow to cool.

Factory Reset: May resolve software glitches. Procedure: Often involves holding specific buttons while powering on (consult specific service bulletin).

Service: For repairs not covered here, contact authorized Bose service center. 1-800-999-2673; www.bose.com/support.

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