Whether you’re an electrician, audio technician, or just someone who wants to learn more about audio systems, understanding the 70 volt wiring diagram is essential. This guide will give you a comprehensive overview of the 70 volt system and how it works.
What is a 70 Volt System?
A 70 volt system is a type of audio system that is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings. It allows multiple speakers to be connected to a single amplifier without the need for long runs of thick speaker wire. Instead, a high voltage signal is distributed to each speaker through a transformer.
The 70 volt system is ideal for large spaces like stadiums, shopping centers, and outdoor areas, where a single amplifier can power dozens or even hundreds of speakers.
How does a 70 volt system work?
The 70 volt system works by sending a high voltage signal from the amplifier to each speaker through a transformer. The transformer steps down the voltage to a level that the speaker can handle, usually between 1 and 10 volts. This allows for multiple speakers to be connected in parallel without the need for thick speaker wire.
The power output of the amplifier is not determined by the number of speakers connected to it, but by the total wattage of the speakers. For example, if an amplifier has a power output of 100 watts, it can power ten 10-watt speakers or twenty 5-watt speakers.
The transformer at each speaker also allows for individual volume control, so the overall volume of the system can be adjusted without affecting the volume of each individual speaker.
What are the advantages of a 70 volt system?
There are several advantages to using a 70 volt system over a traditional low voltage audio system:
- Reduced cost of heavy gauge speaker wire
- Easy installation of multiple speakers in large areas
- Individual volume control of each speaker
- Scalability of the system – additional speakers can be added without affecting the overall power output
The 70 Volt Wiring Diagram
The 70 volt wiring diagram is a schematic diagram that shows the connection of the amplifier to the speakers in a 70 volt system. It is important to understand the wiring diagram in order to properly install and configure the audio system.
The basic 70 volt wiring diagram
The basic 70 volt wiring diagram consists of the following components:
- Amplifier
- Speaker selector switch with transformer taps
- Speaker with transformer
The amplifier connects to the speaker selector switch, which in turn is connected to each individual speaker with transformer. The wiring diagram shows the connections between these components.
Multiple speaker wiring diagram
A multiple speaker wiring diagram shows how multiple speakers can be connected to a single amplifier in a 70 volt system. The wiring diagram includes the following components:
- Amplifier
- Speaker selector switch with transformer taps
- Multiple speakers with transformers
- Volume control for each speaker
The wiring diagram shows how each speaker is connected to the speaker selector switch, and how the volume control is connected to each individual speaker.
FAQ about 70 Volt Wiring Diagrams
What is the maximum length of speaker wire in a 70 volt system?
The maximum length of speaker wire in a 70 volt system depends on several factors, including the gauge of the wire, the wattage of the amplifier, and the total wattage of the speakers. As a general rule, the maximum length of speaker wire should not exceed 100 feet.
Can I connect low impedance speakers to a 70 volt system?
No, low impedance speakers should not be connected to a 70 volt system. The transformer at each speaker in a 70 volt system is designed to work with high impedance speakers only. Connecting low impedance speakers can damage the amplifier and the speakers.
Can I mix speakers with different wattage in a 70 volt system?
Yes, speakers with different wattage can be mixed in a 70 volt system. The amplifier output is determined by the total wattage of the speakers, not the number of speakers or the individual wattage of each speaker. However, it is important to make sure that the total wattage of the speakers does not exceed the wattage of the amplifier.
Can I use a 70 volt system in a home theater?
A 70 volt system is not recommended for use in a home theater. The 70 volt system is designed for commercial and industrial applications where long runs of speaker wire are impractical. In a home theater, it is recommended to use a low impedance audio system with high quality speaker wire.
Conclusion
The 70 volt wiring diagram is an essential tool for understanding and configuring a 70 volt audio system. By understanding the basic components of the system and how it works, you can install and configure a high quality audio system that is scalable and easy to maintain. With the information provided in this guide, you are well on your way to mastering the 70 volt system.
