Bose PowerMatch Manual

The Bose PowerMatch series consists of professional power amplifiers designed for commercial sound installations, offering advanced signal processing, flexible input/output configurations, network control capabilities, and robust protection circuits. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Network Configuration 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Power amplifier modules, Control panel, Network port, Input/output connectors, Cooling fans, Status indicators.

Feature	Description
PowerMatch Technology	Automatically matches amplifier to speaker load for optimal performance
Network Control	Ethernet port for remote monitoring and control via Bose ControlSpace
Input Channels	Multiple balanced XLR/TRS inputs with gain control
Output Channels	Configurable speaker outputs with impedance sensing
DSP Processing	Built-in digital signal processing for EQ, delay, limiting
Protection Circuits	Thermal, short-circuit, and overload protection
Status Indicators	LEDs for power, signal, clip, and fault conditions
Cooling System	Variable-speed fans for quiet operation
Rack Mountable	Standard 19-inch rack mount design
Power Supply	Universal auto-switching power supply

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper rack space and ventilation.

Rack mounting: Use provided brackets and screws to secure in 19-inch rack.
Connect inputs: Use balanced XLR or TRS cables from mixers/processors.
Connect outputs: Use appropriate speaker cables matching impedance requirements.
Connect network: Use Ethernet cable for ControlSpace integration.
Connect power: Use provided power cord to grounded AC outlet.

WARNING! Amplifier is heavy; use two people for installation. Ensure adequate ventilation space.

First-Time Setup

Power on amplifier; configure basic settings.

Power sequence: Turn on connected equipment before amplifier.
Input gain: Set input gain controls to match source levels.
Output configuration: Configure for stereo, parallel, or bridge mode.
DSP settings: Access via front panel or network for basic EQ and limiting.
Network setup: Assign IP address for network control.

CAUTION! Ensure proper speaker impedance matching to prevent damage.

Specifications

Power Output: Varies by model (e.g., PM8500: 850W per channel at 4Ω).
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz, ±0.5dB.
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05% at rated power.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100dB, A-weighted.
Input Connectors: Balanced XLR and TRS combo jacks.
Output Connectors: Binding posts and SpeakON connectors.
DSP Processing: 24-bit/48kHz, parametric EQ, delay, crossover.
Network Control: Ethernet 10/100 with ControlSpace protocol.
Power Requirements: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz, auto-switching.
Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, STATUS LEDs, NAVIGATION buttons, LCD display.

Menu Navigation: Use arrow buttons to access: INPUT SETUP, OUTPUT SETUP, DSP SETTINGS, NETWORK, SYSTEM.

Input Setup: Gain, polarity, input source selection. Output Setup: Mode (stereo/parallel/bridge), output level, impedance setting. DSP Settings: Parametric EQ (frequency, gain, Q), delay (up to 500ms), crossover (high/low pass), limiter (threshold, attack, release). System: Temperature display, fan control, firmware version, factory reset.

Connecting Devices

Inputs: Balanced XLR/TRS from mixer/processor. Outputs: Speaker cables to passive speakers. Network: Ethernet to control network.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Use proper cable types: Balanced for inputs, adequate gauge for outputs.
Secure all connections: Tighten binding posts, lock SpeakON connectors.
Verify impedance: Match amplifier output to speaker impedance rating.

Tip: Label all cables for easy identification during troubleshooting.

Network Configuration

Control via Bose ControlSpace software or front panel.

Connect Ethernet: From amplifier to network switch/router.
IP Configuration: Set static IP or use DHCP via front panel menu.
ControlSpace: Add amplifier to project, assign to zones.
Remote Monitoring: View status, meters, temperature remotely.
Firmware Updates: Upload via network when available.

WARNING! Configure network security appropriately for installation.

Protection Features

Thermal Protection: Reduces output or shuts down if overheated. Short Circuit Protection: Limits current if output shorted. Overload Protection: Prevents clipping and distortion. DC Protection: Blocks DC voltage to speakers. Vented Chassis: Enhanced cooling with temperature-controlled fans.

Care & Maintenance

Keep vents clear of obstructions. Clean with dry cloth only; no liquids.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not block ventilation openings.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for commercial use. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All trademarks property of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com/pro or contact Bose Professional Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power cord connection; verify outlet power; check circuit breaker.
No sound output	Input signal/connections	Verify source is active; check input cables; confirm gain settings.
Distorted sound	Clipping/overload	Reduce input gain; check for overload indicators; verify speaker impedance.
Protection mode active	Overheating/short	Allow cooling; check for shorted speaker wires; ensure proper ventilation.
Network not connecting	IP settings/cable	Verify Ethernet cable; check IP configuration; confirm network connectivity.

Reset: System menu > Factory Reset (saves network settings).

Service: Contact Bose Professional Support or authorized service center.