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    FAQ Category: Sequencing & Power-Up

    Do manual controllers offer any power sequencing capabilities?

    Manual controllers are designed for direct on/off switching and do not include internal time-delay or sequencing logic. Their function is to immediately energize or de-energize a circuit upon activation. For applications requiring a timed power-up or power-down sequence to protect sensitive equipment, we recommend our dedicated sequencing products like the RPC or PDS series.

    Can I sequence power-up across multiple circuits or panels?

    Yes. Sequencing is a core feature designed to protect sensitive equipment from harmful inrush current. Within a single panel, you can create multiple sequence zones and define the step rate. For larger systems, multiple LynTec panels can be networked together and synchronized under a single control interface to ensure a coordinated and safe power-up and power-down sequence across an entire facility.

    Do these surge protectors also provide power sequencing?

    LynTec surge protectors are specialized devices focused exclusively on power protection and filtration. They do not include built-in power sequencing functions.

    For applications that require a controlled power-up or power-down order to prevent speaker pops or equipment damage, these protectors should be paired with a dedicated LynTec power sequencer. This modular approach allows you to build a robust, integrated power infrastructure with best-in-class protection and control.

    How can I sequence power for equipment not in a central rack?

    The XPC Xtend Power Control series is engineered specifically for this scenario. It decouples control from the panel, allowing you to place compact, network-managed relay modules exactly where your equipment is located. This is ideal for controlling powered line arrays, digital signage, or remote video displays.

    XPC modules can be deployed as a standalone system or integrated as an extension of an existing RPC or NPAC installation, providing sequenced control over your standard IP network.

    Can I customize the sequence timing for different types of equipment?

    Yes, all network-enabled LynTec sequencers provide circuit-level control over the power-up and power-down order. You can set custom delay rates from a fraction of a second up to 999 seconds between steps. This flexibility allows you to precisely match the startup requirements of sensitive equipment like digital signal processors, amplifiers, and video projectors, ensuring a safe and stable power-on process.

    How does sequencing scale from a single rack to an entire facility?

    LynTec’s architecture is modular, allowing you to scale your power control infrastructure as needed. For individual racks, a standalone unit like the CQ 1515 or the network-enabled NPAC provides simple, reliable sequencing.

    For facility-wide control, the RPC Remote Control Breaker Panel system can manage up to 168 circuits from a single web interface. You can also use the XPC series to extend sequenced control to distributed equipment anywhere in the building, all integrated into one cohesive system.

    Can I use a simple switch to control a full power-up sequence?

    Yes. A single contact closure event, like turning a key switch or pressing a button, can initiate a complete, pre-programmed power-on or power-off sequence. This allows for simple ‘one-touch’ control of an entire AV or lighting system from a lectern, wall plate, or other convenient location.

    Products like the RPC, NPAC, and CQ Series all support sequence initiation via contact closure, simplifying system operation for end-users while ensuring equipment is powered on and off safely.

    Can I add power sequencing to a panel that doesn’t have it?

    Absolutely. This is a primary application for our retrofit controllers. By installing a kit like the MRTS series into a compatible Square D panel, you can add intelligent startup and shutdown sequencing to existing circuits. This protects sensitive audio and video equipment from damaging inrush currents without needing to install a new, dedicated sequencing panel.

    How can I sequence power for equipment located far from the main panel?

    The XPC Xtend Power Control series is engineered specifically for this application. It is a modular system that uses remote relay modules connected over a standard IP network. This allows you to place control exactly where it is needed, such as near powered speaker arrays, digital signage, or motorized rigging, without running long electrical circuits back to a central panel.

    XPC modules can be deployed with a standalone controller or integrated as an extension of an existing LynTec RPC or NPAC system, providing a scalable solution for facility-wide distributed power control.

    Can a single system manage sequencing across multiple panels?

    Yes. In an RPC system, the master panel serves as the central brain for the entire power infrastructure. From its web interface, you can configure circuit-level sequencing with user-defined step-rates that apply across the master panel and all connected secondary panels. This ensures a coordinated and safe power-up sequence for all connected AVL equipment.

    Does the SCV Series provide power sequencing for my rack equipment?

    The SCV Series is designed purely for power protection and battery backup; it does not have built-in power sequencing capabilities. Its purpose is to provide a stable, uninterrupted source of power to other devices.

    For controlled startup and shutdown of equipment in a rack, we recommend pairing an SCV UPS with a dedicated power sequencer, such as a LynTec PDS or RPC panel. The SCV would feed the sequencer, ensuring the entire control chain is protected.

    Does the RT Series provide multi-step power sequencing?

    The RT Series is designed for single-step remote power activation. It provides a dependable method for turning a single circuit on or off in response to a contact closure trigger. For applications requiring timed, multi-step sequencing with delays between circuits, we recommend exploring our networked RPC or PDS series panels, which offer advanced, programmable sequencing capabilities.

    Why is power sequencing important for an AV or lighting system?

    Powering on multiple high-current devices at once can create a large inrush current spike, which can trip breakers or damage sensitive electronics. A power sequencer like the PDS staggers the startup of each circuit in a controlled, step-by-step order.

    This managed approach prevents electrical overload, protects your equipment investment, and ensures a stable, reliable system startup every time.

    Can the NPAC run automated sequences without an external control system?

    Absolutely. The NPAC includes a built-in astronomical clock and event scheduler. You can program up to 84 timed events to trigger power sequences based on the time of day or relative to sunrise and sunset. This allows the NPAC to operate as a standalone power automation solution for applications that require daily startup and shutdown without needing a dedicated external controller.

    How precise is the sequencing and timing control on the NPAC?

    The NPAC provides granular control over startup and shutdown sequences via its web interface. You can define a custom power-up and power-down order for each circuit. The delay time between each step in the sequence is also programmable, with settings from a fraction of a second up to 999 seconds. This ensures sensitive equipment is powered on and off in a safe, reliable order.

    How do I manage power sequencing for more than eight circuits?

    For larger installations, you can network up to 10 NPAC units together over a standard IP network. When linked, they operate as a single, cohesive system. This allows you to manage and sequence up to 80 circuits from a single web interface, providing a scalable power control infrastructure that can grow from a single rack to a full facility.

    How do I scale a CQ Series system for more circuits or locations?

    CQ Series sequencers are designed for modular expansion. You can link multiple units together by daisy-chaining them with standard RJ-45 cables. Each unit operates independently, so there is no need for a central controller or complex programming. This allows you to create a synchronized power-up sequence that scales from a single rack to a multi-zone installation.

    How is power sequencing configured on your controllers?

    Power sequencing is configured through a simple, browser-based interface on our network-enabled products like the RPC, NPAC, and XPC. This allows you to set the power-on and power-off order for every circuit or relay to prevent high inrush currents that can damage sensitive equipment.

    You can define custom step-rates between sequenced events, from a fraction of a second up to 999 seconds on some models. This provides the flexibility needed to safely manage the startup procedure for amplifiers, DSPs, projectors, and other professional AV gear.

    Is there a ‘ZipOn’ function for fast system activation, for example, to get an arena paging system online within 15 seconds?

    We never thought of it as a ZipOn, but we can accomplish that function. The MS series modular sequencer flexibility makes this fast turn-on function possible. The MS series STEP RATE may be set at 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 or 1 second. 80 circuits would require two MSP or MSLC 341-48 cabinets. Each cabinet holds up to 41 motorized breakers. Each cabinet has 4 daisy-chained, 6 step sequencer boards. Each step controls two motorized breakers, so we have 24 steps per cabinet. By installing both the 1/4 and 1/2 second STEP RATE jumpers we can set the step rate to 1/8 second. Each of the two cabinets with 24 steps, will take 3 seconds to turn on. (24 steps x 1/8 sec. = 3 sec.)

    By using only 6 of the 15-second design target, there will still be some time that may be used for front end settling by setting the delay between steps 1 and 2 of the first board to 4 or even 8 seconds. A variation would be to turn on each step at 1/4 second with a settling time delay of 2 seconds for a total turn-on time of 14 seconds. (48 steps x 1/4 =12 sec. + 2 sec. settling time = 14 sec.)

    For larger systems, we can turn on up to 5 sequencing systems in parallel to keep the turn-on time to a minimum. For instance: A stadium has a small MSLC panel in the control room with 24 circuits. With a 4 second settling time delay it requires 5.5 seconds to turn on. (12 steps x 1/8 sec = 1.5 sec + 4 sec. settling time = 5.5 sec.) By series-parallel connecting the daisy chain connections to five MSLC/MSP 341-48 panels we can turn on a 229 circuit system in 8.5 seconds. (Front end MSLC = 5.5 sec. + five parallel connected MSLC or MSP 341-48s, each requiring 3 sec. = 8.5 sec. total turn-on time)

    Which outlets on the SQ-1500 are sequenced?

    Six of the seven rear outlets are sequenced. They are arranged in three groups of two, with each group turning on in a timed delay. One outlet is always on for devices that need constant power.

    What happens when the alarm condition is cleared?

    Once the alarm is cleared and the dry contact between the terminals is restored (closed), the RC DM1 will automatically initiate a normal power-up sequence for all connected CQ Series units.

    Can this unit be used for power sequencing?

    The JG 11-15A does not have built-in power sequencing capabilities. It provides straightforward power distribution and basic protection. For sequencing, consider LynTec’s PDS, LCP, or RPC series products.

    Can this unit sequence power on and off for audio equipment?

    Yes, the iP-1520-RX can be programmed to sequence the Power Pods on and off. This is useful in audio systems to prevent speaker pops and manage inrush current from multiple amplifiers starting simultaneously.

    Does the CQ 50 require a primary controller?

    No, the CQ 50 and the entire CQ Series are designed for standalone operation. A sequence can be initiated from any unit in a daisy-chain or from a simple, third-party contact closure, eliminating the need for a separate primary controller.

    Can I use multiple CQ 50s together in a sequence?

    Yes. The dedicated RJ45 input and output ports are designed for daisy-chaining. You can link any number of CQ Series devices together to create a synchronized power-up and power-down sequence across your entire system.

    How do I link multiple CQ units together?

    Multiple CQ units can be daisy-chained using standard eight-wire RJ-45 or six-wire RJ-12 cables. Connect the Signal Output of the primary unit to the Signal Input of the next unit in the sequence.

    Can I use this with other sequencers?

    Yes, the CQ 2200 is part of the CQ Series and can be interconnected with other CQ devices to create larger, synchronized multi-zone sequencing systems. It operates on the same plug-and-play signal line.

    What problem does having two sequence events solve?

    Two events allow you to manage high inrush current on a single 20A circuit. You can power on sensitive front-end gear first, then delay the power-on for high-current amplifiers, preventing circuit overloads.

    What is the primary use for the CQ 3000?

    The CQ 3000 is specifically designed for sequencing high-current equipment, such as low-frequency audio amplifiers, that require a 30A circuit. It provides a safe, controlled power-up to prevent inrush current issues.

    Can I use the CQ 3000 by itself?

    Yes, the CQ 3000 can operate as a standalone sequencer. It is also designed to be daisy-chained with other CQ series products using standard network cables to create larger, multi-step sequencing systems.

    Does the CQ 1520-RX need a primary controller to operate?

    No, the CQ 1520-RX is a self-contained sequencer with its own control logic. It can function as the primary (primary) unit in a sequence or as a secondary (secondary) unit controlled by another CQ device.

    How do I connect multiple CQ 1515 units together?

    You can link multiple CQ units by connecting a standard eight-wire RJ-45 cable from the Signal Output of the primary unit to the Signal Input of the secondary unit. This allows them to sequence in a synchronized order.

    How do I connect multiple CQ 1 units together?

    You can link multiple CQ units using standard eight-wire RJ-45 network cables. Each unit has an ‘Input’ and ‘Output’ port to create a simple daisy-chain for system-wide sequencing.

    Does the CQ 1 require a primary controller?

    No, the CQ 1 is a plug-and-play device that does not require a separate primary controller or any programming. It can operate as a standalone unit or as part of a larger, self-contained CQ system.

    What is the primary use for the CQ 1?

    The CQ 1 is designed to provide sequenced power to distributed AV equipment, such as powered speakers, projectors, or displays, in locations without a traditional equipment rack. It installs directly into a wall, ceiling, or floor box.

    How do I control the PDS-12 sequencing?

    The PDS-12 uses a standard contact closure input for control. This allows you to trigger the on/off sequence with a simple key switch, button, or a relay output from a third-party automation system.