z3 software?

[MadMike84]

I was just finishing up two vehicles that were already outiftted with code 3 systems. I had to change the batteries in both vehicles. I tested the first vehicle and finished up the remaining equipment for the install. Everything is good. When I was finishing up the second install the system will not work. No emergency lights at all. The controller is lighting up and looks like it is functioning properly. The Siren is working as well.

That being said I think something happened when the battery went in this one. I would like to check to make sure it still has a program in it. I do not have a distributor for this as we do not usually deal with code 3 products. Is there anyway to get this software so I can check this problem out? Thanks for any help!

 

[SafetyLighting]

The software only comes with the Z3, I don't think it can be downloaded. Even if the Z3 reverted to the default state, outputs would still activate. Sounds to me like the main power inputs have blown fuses. When switching the control head, can you hear relays activating in the amplifier? Where in VA are you?

 

[MadMike84]

Harrisonburg. After reading the troubleshooting manual and checking fuses (all fuses inside the amp are good) it seems that I’m not getting 12v to my inputs. I’m going to have to trace this stuff down and figure out why I lost it. Going to be fun. Whoever built this car did a crappy job. It’s a rats nest in here.

Also I called the guys at code 3 and they sent me a download link so I can check it, but as you said I don’t think that’s the problem. Thanks for the reply!

 

[MadMike84]

I just wanted to write a little update. I’m still not exactly sure what happened but what I found out is that that Siren amp went bad. Code 3 sent a brand new unit. once we put that new siren amp in all the lights started working. I know the vehicle was getting jump a lot because of a bad battery. So I don’t know If it went bad while we were jumping and replacing the battery or what happened but it was definitely in the amplifier.

 

[SafetyLighting]

I have had a couple of the amp portions go bad over the years.

 

[MadMike84]

Good to know. I thought at first it was the controller because the black plastic housing the cat5 connects to pulled completely out(common problem on the older units) and the tech told me he was 100% sure there was a trace or pin broken because of this. I checked all the solder points etc and found everything to be perfectly fine there. I see they changed the controller up a bit in that area on this new unit.