Bose Link AR8 Manual

The Bose Link AR8 is an advanced audio routing and control module designed for integration into custom home entertainment and multi-room audio systems. It features eight audio inputs, RS-232 and IR control interfaces, flexible signal routing, and compatibility with various Bose products and third-party components. Below are key sections for overview, installation, configuration, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main control unit, IR remote sensor, RS-232 port, IR output ports, eight audio input channels, system link ports.

Feature	Description
Audio Inputs	8 stereo audio inputs for various sources
RS-232 Control Port	For integration with control systems (Crestron, AMX, etc.)
IR Output Ports	Control external devices via infrared
IR Remote Sensor Input	Accepts signals from Bose or universal remotes
System Link Ports	Connect to other Bose components (Lifestyle® systems, amplifiers)
Power Input	12V DC power supply connection
Status Indicators	LEDs for power, activity, and communication status
Routing Flexibility	Assign any input to any output zone
Preset Memory	Store and recall favorite configurations
Audio Processing	Signal conditioning and level matching

Installation

Unpack and verify contents. Mount in a well-ventilated equipment rack or shelf.

1. Connect power: Use supplied 12V DC adapter; plug into power input.
2. Connect audio sources: Use RCA cables to connect CD players, tuners, etc., to audio inputs.
3. Connect to Bose system: Use Bose link cables to connect to compatible Bose products.
4. Connect control interfaces: Attach RS-232 cable to control system; connect IR emitter cables if needed.
5. Power on unit.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block vents. Use appropriate rack mounting hardware if applicable.

Initial Setup & Configuration

Power on the AR8; configure via connected control system or IR remote.

1. Set device addresses: If using multiple AR8 units, set unique addresses via DIP switches.
2. Configure input labels: Assign names to inputs (e.g., "CD," "Tuner," "Aux") via control system.
3. Set default routing: Define which inputs are active in which zones at power-on.
4. Adjust audio levels: Balance input levels to prevent distortion or volume mismatches.
5. Save configuration: Store settings to preset memory.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before adjusting DIP switches or making cable changes.

Specifications

• Audio Inputs: 8 stereo pairs (RCA).
• Control Interfaces: RS-232 (DB-9), IR input (3.5mm), IR outputs (2 ports).
• System Link: Proprietary Bose link ports (2).
• Power Requirements: 12V DC, 1A (supplied adapter).
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (±1 dB).
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05% at 1 kHz.
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >95 dB (A-weighted).
• Dimensions: 17" W x 1.75" H x 8" D (rack mount width).
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
• Compatibility: Bose Lifestyle® systems, amplifiers, third-party control systems.

Controls & Connections

Front Panel: Power LED, Status LED, IR sensor window. Rear Panel: Audio inputs, control ports, power input, system link.

Remote Control: Use compatible Bose remote (e.g., Lifestyle system remote) or programmed universal remote. Functions: Power, Source Select, Volume, Mute, Preset Recall.

Configuration via RS-232: Send serial commands for routing, naming, presets. Common commands: Source selection (S1-S8), Zone control (Z1-Zx), Preset save/recall (P1-P4). IR Control: Learn IR codes for external devices to control via AR8.

System Integration

Connect to Bose Lifestyle systems, amplifiers, or third-party audio distribution.

1. Turn off all equipment before connecting.
2. Use Bose link cable to connect AR8 to Lifestyle system media center or amplifier.
3. Connect audio sources to AR8 inputs.
4. Connect IR emitters from AR8 outputs to external devices (cable box, Blu-ray player).
5. Connect RS-232 to control system processor.
6. Power on and verify communication.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Operation Modes

Supports standalone operation or integration with control system.

1. Source Selection: Choose input via remote or control system command.
2. Zone Control: Route selected source to one or multiple zones (if connected to multi-zone amp).
3. Preset Operation: Recall stored configurations (source + zone assignments).
4. IR Pass-through: AR8 can relay IR commands from its sensor to connected devices.
5. Auto Sensing: Can be configured to switch inputs upon detecting audio signal (if supported).

WARNING! Do not connect or disconnect Bose link cables while power is on.

Advanced Settings

RS-232 Command Set: Detailed command list for custom integration. IR Database: Learn and store IR codes for external components. Input Trim: Adjust gain per input for consistent levels. Default State: Set power-on behavior (last state or predefined preset).

Maintenance & Care

Unplug power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth; avoid liquids. Ensure vents are dust-free.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air directly on ports. Keep away from excessive heat or humidity.

Regulatory & Compliance

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with applicable EMC directives. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Trademarks owned by Bose Corporation. For technical support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power adapter, outlet	Check power adapter connection; try different outlet; verify LED.
No audio from source	Routing, cables, source	Verify source is on; check RCA cables; confirm correct input selected.
Control system not communicating	RS-232 wiring, baud rate	Check cable connections (TX, RX, GND); verify baud rate (default 9600).
IR commands not passing through	IR emitter, positioning	Ensure emitter is attached securely and placed over device's IR sensor.
Bose link connection failed	Cable, compatible device	Use genuine Bose link cable; verify connected device is compatible.
Distorted audio	Input level too high	Reduce source output level or adjust input trim on AR8 (if available).

Reset: Power cycle unit. For factory reset, consult advanced manual or Bose support.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support or authorized service center.