Bose Link III Manual

The Bose Link III is a professional-grade audio distribution system designed for multi-room audio applications, featuring digital signal processing, network connectivity, and compatibility with various Bose audio products. It supports multiple audio sources, zone control, and integration with home automation systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Bose Link III Controller, Network Interface, Audio Input/Output ports, Remote Control, Power Supply.

Feature	Description
Network Interface	Ethernet port for network connectivity and control
Audio Input Ports	Multiple analog and digital audio inputs
Audio Output Ports	Zone outputs for multi-room audio distribution
RS-232 Control	For integration with home automation systems
IR Input	Infrared input for remote control compatibility
Power Supply	External power adapter (included)
Status Indicators	LED indicators for power, network, and zone status
Reset Button	Factory reset function
Mounting Options	Rack-mountable design
Compatibility	Works with Bose Lifestyle and other Bose systems

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate location for installation.

1. Mount the unit: Use provided rack ears for standard 19-inch rack mounting.
2. Connect audio sources: Use appropriate cables for analog or digital inputs.
3. Connect zone outputs: Route audio cables to amplifier inputs in each zone.
4. Connect network: Use Ethernet cable to connect to your local network.
5. Connect power: Plug power adapter into AC outlet.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings.

First-Time Setup

Power on the Bose Link III; follow initial configuration steps.

1. Network configuration: Connect to network and obtain IP address automatically or manually.
2. Source configuration: Assign audio sources to specific inputs in the setup menu.
3. Zone setup: Configure audio zones with appropriate names and settings.
4. Volume calibration: Set appropriate volume levels for each zone.
5. Save configuration: Store settings to internal memory.

CAUTION! Use proper cable management to prevent tripping hazards and interference.

Specifications

• Audio Inputs: 4 analog stereo, 2 digital optical, 2 digital coaxial.
• Audio Outputs: 8 zone outputs (stereo analog).
• Network: 10/100 Ethernet with TCP/IP support.
• Control: RS-232, IR input, Ethernet control.
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.5dB).
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100dB.
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05%.
• Power Supply: 12V DC, 2A.
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
• Dimensions: 17" W × 1.75" H × 8" D (rack mounted).

Controls and Settings

Access configuration via web interface or RS-232 commands.

Web Interface: Access via IP address in web browser. Features: Source assignment, zone configuration, volume limits, preset programming.

RS-232 Commands: Complete command set for integration with control systems.

IR Control: Learn IR commands from source components.

Settings: Source naming, zone grouping, volume presets, audio processing (bass/treble), input sensitivity, output level calibration.

Connecting Devices

Audio Sources: CD players, tuners, streaming devices, etc.

1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
2. Connect analog sources: Use RCA cables to analog inputs.
3. Connect digital sources: Use optical or coaxial cables to digital inputs.
4. Connect zone outputs: Use RCA cables to amplifier inputs in each zone.
5. Connect control: RS-232 to control system, IR emitter to source components.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Network Configuration

Supports DHCP and static IP addressing.

1. Connect Ethernet cable to router/switch.
2. Power on Bose Link III.
3. Check IP address: Use front panel display or DHCP client list on router.
4. Access web interface: Enter IP address in web browser.
5. Configure network settings: Set static IP if required by your network.
6. Test connectivity: Verify communication with control system.

WARNING! Ensure network security settings allow communication with the Bose Link III.

Zone Management

Create and manage up to 8 independent audio zones.

1. Zone creation: Assign outputs to zones in web interface.
2. Zone naming: Give each zone a descriptive name (e.g., "Living Room", "Kitchen").
3. Source assignment: Assign which sources are available in each zone.
4. Volume limits: Set maximum volume levels for each zone.
5. Zone grouping: Group zones for simultaneous playback.
6. Preset programming: Save source and volume settings as presets.

Note: Zones can be controlled independently or as groups.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; avoid liquids.

Maintenance: Keep firmware updated via web interface. Regularly check connections.

CAUTION! Do not open the unit; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for commercial use. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose customer service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No audio in zone	Connection/volume	Check cables; ensure zone is unmuted; verify source selection.
Network not accessible	IP configuration	Verify Ethernet connection; check IP settings; restart router.
IR control not working	IR emitter placement	Reposition IR emitter; check IR learning procedure.
Web interface not loading	Browser/network	Clear browser cache; verify IP address; check firewall settings.
Distorted audio	Input level/connections	Adjust input sensitivity; check for loose connections.

Reset: Press and hold reset button for 10 seconds to restore factory defaults.

Service: Contact Bose Professional support for service inquiries.