DATASHEET

Version 1.4 Page 1 of 29

ICEpower 250ASX2
2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Contents
General Description .............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Release Notes ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Block Diagram ........................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Connection Diagram............................................................................................................................................................. 4
Absolute Maximum Ratings .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Power Specifications ............................................................................................................................................................ 8
General Audio Specifications (SE-mode) ...................................................................................................................... 8
General Audio Specifications (BTL-mode) ................................................................................................................... 9
Electrical Specifications ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Timing Specifications ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Disturbances on the Mains............................................................................................................................................... 10
Mechanical Specifications ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Typical Performance Characteristics........................................................................................................................... 12
Loading ................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Dissipated Power vs. Output Power ............................................................................................................................. 18
Features ................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Protection Features ............................................................................................................................................................ 22
Input/Output Interface .................................................................................................................................................... 24
Operational Timing Diagram ........................................................................................................................................... 25
Thermal Design ................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Physical Dimensions .......................................................................................................................................................... 26
Drill Pattern .......................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Safety Standards ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
ESD Warning ......................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Packaging and Storing ....................................................................................................................................................... 28
Contact ................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Legal Notes ........................................................................................................................................................................... 29
DATASHEET Page 2 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

General Description
The ICEpower250ASX2 is a fully integrated, intelligent audio power conversion solution designed
particularly for highly competitive consumer and professional audio products. The ICE-
power250ASX2 is EMC and safety approved and the “black-box” completeness allows for fast de-
sign-in and minimized time to market. Key benefits include:

 State-of-the-art, high efficiency ICEpower

amplification stage based on the patented
HCOM modulation and MECC control tech-
niques

 A power supply with selectable mains

converter and separate aux converter

 A wide set of features for plug-and play

implementation into applications such as
active speakers and subwoofers, wireless
speakers, multimedia audio, musical in-
strument amplifiers and distributed audio

ICEpower250ASX2 can be configured to either stereo or mono out-

put. Combined with the auxiliary supply for powering external cir-
cuitry and the complete elimination of external heat sinks and EMI
shields, the ICEpower250ASX2 is the natural choice in any audio
application that requires a compact, integrated power solution.

ICEpower250ASX2 is protected against short circuits, overload and

overheating and includes on-board fuses and EMI filtering to provide
a CE and FCC pre-approved design.

Key Specifications Key Features

 500W @ 1% THD+N, 20Hz – 20kHz, 8, BTL  Fully integrated audio power solution
 2 x 230W @ 1% THD+N, 20Hz – 20kHz, 4, SE  Rugged construction
(both channels driven)  Thermal protection
 400W (2) + 100W (8) @ 1% THD+N, 20Hz –  Overcurrent protection
20kHz, SE (both channels driven with asymmetric  Sound optimized soft clipping
load)  Suitable for CE approved designs
 121dBA dynamic range (BTL-mode)  EMI conforms to: EN55013
 112dBA dynamic range (SE-mode) EN55020
 THD+N = 0.008% @ 1W (8,1kHz, SE-mode) EN61000-3-2
 THD+N = 0.003% @ 1W (8,1kHz, BTL-mode) EN61000-3-3
 84,4 % total efficiency @ 500W, 8 FCC part 15-B
 CCIF Intermodulation distortion = 0.0009%, 10W,  Safety conforms to: IEC 60065 7th ed.
4, 18.5kHz/1kHz UL 60065 7th ed.
 24V unregulated auxiliary power supply
 Selectable Mains 85-132VAC & 170-264VAC
DATASHEET Page 3 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Release Notes
Version Date Revised by Changes

1.2 2014-11-13 LBH Asymmetric load

1.3 2015-12-03 LBH Header spec. text updated

1.4 2017-10-17 DIT Address updated

DATASHEET Page 4 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Block Diagram

Figure 1: ICEpower250ASX2 block diagram

Connection Diagram

Figure 2: ICEpower250ASX2 connections

DATASHEET Page 5 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

The connector interface of the ICEpower250ASX2 module has four industry standard connectors se-
lected for long-term reliability.

AC Header Specifications (P100)

Type: JST B2P3-VH
PIN Function Description Type
1 Neutral Neutral AC Input
2 Live Live AC Input
Table 1: AC connector specifications.

Speaker Header Specifications (P101)

Type: JST B4P-VH
PIN Function Description Type
1 Vo+ Amplifier output channel 2 Output
2 GND GNDchannel2 GND
2 GND GNDchannel1 GND
4 Vo+ Amplifier output channel 1 Output
Table 2: Speaker connector specifications.

Signal Header Specifications (P102)

Type: JST B8B-PH-K-S
PIN Function Description Type
1 BTL Sync Synchronization pin for amplifiers (used in BTL-mode) Input
2 Enable Amplifier enable Input/Output
3 OC Monitor pin amplifier over current Output
4 Thermal Thermal monitoring pin Output
5 Vin channel 2 Input signal channel 2 Input
6 GND Ground terminal for the signal section. GND
7 GND Ground terminal for the signal section. GND
8 Vin channel 1 Input signal channel 1 Input
Table 3: Signal connector specifications.

Auxiliary Supply Header Specifications (P103)

Type: JST B3B-PH-K-S
PIN Function Description Type
1 Vdaux Positive unregulated auxiliary supply (typical +24V) Output
2 GND Ground terminal for the auxiliary section. GND
3 Vsaux Negative unregulated auxiliary supply (typical -24V) Output
Table 4: Auxiliary supply header specifications.
DATASHEET Page 6 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Absolute Maximum Ratings

Absolute maximum ratings indicate limits above which damage may occur.

Mains Input Section

115V mains setting
Symbol Parameter Value Units
ACmax Maximum off-line voltage 132 VAC
ACmin Minimum off-line voltage 851) VAC
F Mains frequency range 85VAC - 132VAC 45 – 65 Hz
Table 6: Absolute maximum ratings, mains input section - 115V setting.

230V mains setting

Symbol Parameter Value Units
ACmax Maximum off-line voltage 264 VAC
ACmin Minimum off-line voltage 1701) VAC
F Mains frequency range 170VAC - 264VAC 45 – 65 Hz
Table 7: Absolute maximum ratings, mains input section - 230V setting.
1) The ICEpower250ASX2 will operate at lower levels but the output power will be reduced. If the off-line volt-
age is too low, the ICEpower250ASX2 will switch off.

Auxiliary Supply
Symbol Parameter Value Unit
IVd Maximum current draw from Vd (+24V)2) 250 mA
IVs Maximum current draw from Vs (-24V)2) -250 mA
Table 8: Absolute maximum ratings, auxiliary supply.
2) If the auxillary supply on ICEpower250ASX2 is used with a capacitive load, please remember to read the sec-
tion “Capacitive Loading of the AUX Supply” in the ICEpower250ASX2 designer’s manual.

Input Section
Symbol Parameter Value Unit
Vin channel 1 , Vin Maximum voltage range on pin 3.3 Vp
channel 2
Table 9: Absolute maximum ratings, input section.
DATASHEET Page 7 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Output Section
Symbol Parameter Value Units
Rload Minimum symmetric load (SE-mode) 3 
Minimum asymmetric load (SE-mode) * 2&6 
Minimum load (BTL-mode) 4 
Iout3) Maximum current draw from amplifier out- 30 A
put
CL Maximal purely capacitive load (SE) 390 nF
Maximal purely capacitive load (BTL) 150 nF
Table 10: Absolute maximum ratings, output section.
3) The overcurrent protection will act to protect the amplifier. (See ”Protection features”)
*) The amplifier can be loaded asymmetrically. One channel can be loaded with minimum 2. The other channel
must then be minimum 6.

Thermal Section
Symbol Parameter Value Unit
Ta Max. operating ambient temperature 45 OC

(tropical safety conditions tested)

Table 11: Absolute maximum ratings, thermal section.
DATASHEET Page 8 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Power Specifications
Unless otherwise specified. Ta=25 OC, f=1kHz, RL=8, 230V mains

Symbol Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Units

tPmax Time of maximum rated output power4) 500W out. No preheating. - 50 - s
tP200W Time of 200 Watt output power4) 200W out. No preheating. RL = - 550 - s
4, BTL
tP170W Time of 1/5 of maximum rated output 170W out. No preheating. RL = - 650 - s
power4) 4, BTL
PT Continuous output power4) without ther- Thermal stab. @ Ta = 25 OC. - 60 - W
mal shutdown. (SE, 4Ω) Both channels driven
PT Continuous output power4) without ther- Thermal stab. @ Ta = 25 OC. - 95 - W
mal shutdown. (SE, 8Ω) Both channels driven
PT Continuous output power4) without ther- Thermal stab. @ Ta = 25 OC. - 180 - W
mal shutdown. (BTL, 8Ω)
PT Continuous output power4) without ther- Thermal stab. @ Ta = 25 OC. - 65 - W
mal shutdown. (BTL, 4Ω)
PSMPS Quiescent power consumption Enable pin low - 7 - W
(amplifier disabled)
Pq Quiescent power consumption Po = 0W - 14 - W
(amplifier enabled)
 Total power efficiency Po = 2 x 250W 4 ohm SE - 76,3 - %
Po = 2 x 100W 4 ohm SE - 76 -
Po = 1 x 100W 8 ohm BTL - 77,2 -
Po = 1 x 500W 8ohm BTL - 84,4 -
Vdaux, Nominal DC voltage Mains voltage and output 17,7 24,2 28 V
Vsaux power within specified ranges
Table 12: Power specifications.
4) The module is mounted vertically in free air.

General Audio Specifications (SE-mode)

Unless otherwise specified, f=1kHz, PO=1W, Ta=25 OC.

Symbol Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Units

PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 4
20Hz < f < 20kHz, both channels driven. 230Vac / 50Hz, - 230 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac / 50Hz - 200 -
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N 230Vac / 50Hz, RL = 2.7 - 325 -
20Hz < f < 20kHz, both channels driven, RL = 8 - 110 - W
First channel RL = 2.7,
Second channel RL = 8 - 300 -
115Vac / 50Hz , RL = 2.7
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) - 100 -
RL = 8
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N 230Vac / 50Hz, RL = 2 - 400 -
20Hz < f < 20kHz, both channels driven, RL = 8 - 100 - W
First channel RL = 2,
Second channel RL = 8 - 360 -
115Vac / 50Hz , RL = 2
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) - 90 -
_ RL = 8
PO Output power @ 10%THD+N RL = 4
DATASHEET Page 9 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

20Hz < f < 20kHz, both channels driven. 230Vac / 50Hz, - 280 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac /50Hz - 240 -
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 4
20Hz < f < 20kHz, one channel driven. 230Vac / 50Hz, - 270 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac / 50Hz - 240 -
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 2.7
20Hz < f < 20kHz, one channel driven. 230Vac / 50Hz, - 365 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac / 50Hz - 340 -
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 2
20Hz < f < 20kHz, one channel driven. 230Vac / 50Hz, - 435 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac / 50Hz - 400 -
THD+N THD+N (4,AES17 measurement filter)6) f = 100Hz, PO =1W - 0.008 0.015 %
VN,O Output referenced idle noise A-weighted 35 80 180 V
AV Nominal Voltage Gain f = 1 kHz 27,8 28,3 28,8 dB
f Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz, All loads - ±0.25 ±0.5 dB
fu Upper bandwidth limit (SE) RL = 8 - 120 - kHz
(-3dB) RL = 4 - 85 - kHz
fl Lower bandwidth limit (-3dB) RL = All loads - 1.5 - Hz

Zo Abs. output impedance f = 1kHz - 18 25 m

ZL Load impedance range 3* 4  
D Dynamic range A-weighted (250W, 4) - 112 - dB
IMD Intermodulation (CCIF) f =18.5kHz, 1kHz, PO =10W - 0.0009 - %
TIM Transient intermodulation (DIM30) PO =10W - 0.003 - %
Table 13: General audio specifications

6) An Audio Precision AES17 20 kHz 7th order measurement filter is used for measurements. The frequency 6.67 kHz corre-
sponds to the worst-case scenario where both 2nd and 3rd harmonics are within the audio band.
*) The amplifier can be loaded asymmetrically. One channel can be loaded with minimum 2. The other channel
must then be minimum 6

General Audio Specifications (BTL-mode)

Unless otherwise specified, f=1kHz, PO=1W, Ta=25 OC.

Symbol Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Units

PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 8
20Hz < f < 20kHz 230Vac / 50Hz, - 500 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac / 50Hz - 420 -
PO Output power @ 10%THD+N RL = 8
20Hz < f < 20kHz 230Vac / 50Hz, - 630 - W
(AES17 measurement filter) 6) 115Vac /50Hz - 510 -
PO Output power @ 1%THD+N RL = 4
f = 1kHz, (AES17 measurement filter) 6) 230Vac / 50Hz - 850 - W
THD+N THD+N in 8 f = 100Hz, PO =1W - 0.004 0.008 %
(AES17 measurement filter) 6)
VN,O Output referenced idle noise A-weighted 30 55 90 V
20Hz < f < 20kHz
AV Nominal Voltage Gain f = 1 kHz 33,9 34,4 34,9 dB
f Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz, load: 6 – inf.  Ω - ±0.3 ±0.5 dB
fu Upper bandwidth limit (BTL) (-3dB) RL = 8 - 90 - kHz
fl Lower bandwidth limit (-3dB) RL = All loads - 1.5 - Hz
DATASHEET Page 10 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Zo Abs. output impedance f = 1kHz - 21 30 m

ZL Load impedance range 4 8  
D Dynamic range A-weighted at 500W@4 - 121 - dB
IMD Intermodulation (CCIF) f =18.5kHz, 1kHz, PO =10W - 0.0006 - %
TIM Transient intermodulation (DIM30) PO =10W - 0.003 - %
Table 14: General audio specifications
6) An Audio Precision AES17 20 kHz 7th order measurement filter is used for measurements. The frequency 6.67 kHz corre-
sponds to the worst-case scenario where both 2nd and 3rd harmonics are within the audio band.

Electrical Specifications
Unless otherwise specified, Ta=25 OC.

Symbol Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Unit

fo Switching frequency channel 1 Idle 460 510 560 kHz
fo Switching frequency channel 2 Idle 500 550 600 kHz
fo Switching frequency BTL Idle 490 540 590 kHz
fs Switching frequency range (amplifier) Idle to full scale 90 - 600 kHz
fsmps Switching frequency (power supply) - 92 - kHz
Table 15: Electrical specifications

Timing Specifications
Symbol Parameter Conditions Min Typ Max Unit
tacd Power supply start-up delay. Time from reaching ACmin to all power supplies - 1000 1500 ms
(nominal mains) are good and amplifier is active.
Table 16: Timing specifications

Disturbances on the Mains

The signal on the mains connection is often very noisy and large surge voltages are present. The
ICEpower250ASX2 is equipped with mains filtering to suppress surges and noise.

Special care and component selection has made the ICEpower250ASX2 able to withstand surges up
to 8kV to avoid damage to the ICEpower250ASX2 in case of surges caused by lightning.
DATASHEET Page 11 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Mechanical Specifications
The ICEpower250ASX2 has passed tough mechanical tests during development to ensure high relia-
bility.

Test Acceleration Amount

Unpowered tests: The unit is powered after the test to verify functionality.
Random vibration 2gRMS 3x20min
Bump 10g/16ms, 2-4 Hz 1000 bumps in each of 6 directions7)
Shock 70g/12ms 3 shocks in each of 6 directions7)
Powered tests: The unit is tested with power applied.
Sinusoidal vibrations 2.5mm, 5-10Hz 2 hours in each of 3 directions7)
1g, 10-100Hz
Random vibrations 0.01g, 10-20Hz 2 hours in each of 3 directions7)
0.7gRMS –3dB/oct, 20-150Hz
Table 17: Mechanical tests

7) 6 directions: (up, down, left, right forward and backward). 3 directions: (up and down, left and right,
forward and backward).
DATASHEET Page 12 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Typical Performance Characteristics

Frequency Response (SE-mode)

+30 +90

+80
+28

+70
+26
+60
+24
+50

+22
+40

+20 +30

+20
+18

d +10
+16
B d
g +0 e
+14 g
A -10

+12
-20

+10 -30

-40
+8

-50
+6
-60
+4
-70

+2
-80

-0 -90
20 50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k 50k 100k
Hz

Figure 3: Frequency response in 4 (blue), 8 (green) and open load (red). Top – amplitude. Bottom – phase.

Frequency Response (BTL-mode)

+40 +90

+38 +80

+36
+70
+34
+60
+32
+50
+30
+40
+28
+30
+26
+20
+24

d +22 +10
B d
g +20 +0 e
g
A +18 -10

+16
-20
+14
-30
+12
-40
+10
-50
+8
-60
+6
-70
+4

+2 -80

-0 -90
20 50 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k 50k 100k
Hz

Figure 4: Frequency response in 8 (green) and open load (red). Top – amplitude. Bottom – phase.
DATASHEET Page 13 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Harmonic Distortion & Noise (SE-mode)

10 10

5 5

2 2

1 1

0.5 0.5

0.2 0.2

% 0.1 % 0.1

0.05 0.05

0.02 0.02

0.01 0.01

0.005 0.005

0.002 0.002

0.001 0.001
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 300 100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 400
W W

THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (8). 230Vac/50Hz THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (4), 230Vac/50Hz
10 10

5 5

2 2

1 1

0.5 0.5

0.2 0.2

% 0.1 % 0.1

0.05 0.05

0.02 0.02

0.01 0.01

0.005 0.005

0.002 0.002

0.001 0.001
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 300 100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 400
W W

THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (8), 115Vac/50Hz THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (4), 115Vac/50Hz
+0 +0

-10 -10

-20 -20

-30 -30

-40 -40

-50 -50

-60 -60
d -70 d -70
B B
r -80 r -80

A -90 A -90

-100 -100

-110 -110

-120 -120

-130 -130

-140 -140

-150 -150

-160 -160
0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k 0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
Hz Hz

f=
Idle noise (16K FFT). Residual = 80V(A). 5kHz. Po = 100mW. 4 loading.
(Relative to 250W into 4 ohm) (Relative to 250W into 4 ohm)
Figure 5: Total harmonic distortion & noise (SE).
8) An Audio Precision AES17 20 kHz 7th order measurement filter is used for measurements. The frequency 6.67 kHz
corresponds to the worst-case scenario where both 2nd and 3rd harmonics are within the audio band.
DATASHEET Page 14 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Harmonic Distortion & Noise (BTL-mode)

10 10

5 5

2 2

1 1

0.5 0.5

0.2 0.2

0.1 0.1
% %
0.05 0.05

0.02 0.02

0.01 0.01

0.005 0.005

0.002 0.002

0.001 0.001

0.0006 0.0006
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 500 700 100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 500 700
W W

THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (8). 230Vac/50Hz THD+N vs. Po at 100Hz, 1kHz and 6.67kHz 8) (8), 115Vac/50Hz
+0 +0

-10 -10

-20 -20

-30 -30

-40 -40

-50 -50

-60 -60

d -70 d -70
B B
r -80 r -80

A -90 A -90

-100 -100

-110 -110

-120 -120

-130 -130

-140 -140

-150 -150

-160 -160
0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k 0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
Hz Hz

Idle noise (16K FFT). Residual = 55V(A). f = 5kHz. Po = 100mW.8 loading.

(Relative to 500W into 8 ohm) (Relative to 500W into 8 ohm)

Figure 6: Total harmonic distortion & noise (BTL).

8) An Audio Precision AES17 20 kHz 7th order measurement filter is used for measurements. The fre-
quency 6.67 kHz corresponds to the worst-case scenario where both 2nd and 3rd harmonics are within the
audio band.
DATASHEET Page 15 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Intermodulation Distortion (CCIF & TIM) (SE-mode)

10 +0

5 -10

-20
2
-30
1
-40
0.5
-50

-60
0.2
d -70
0.1 B
% r -80
0.05
A -90
0.02 -100

0.01 -110

0.005 -120

-130
0.002
-140
0.001
-150
0.0006
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200
-160
0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
W
Hz

CCIF IMD vs. PO, RL = 4, f1 =18,5kHz, f2 = 1kHz, CCIF IMD analysis. RL = 4, PO =10W.
IMD@10W = 0.0009%.
10 +0

5 -10

-20
2
-30

1 -40

0.5 -50

-60
0.2 d -70
B
% 0.1 r -80

0.05 A -90

-100
0.02
-110

0.01 -120

0.005 -130

-140
0.002
-150

0.001 -160
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 400 0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
W Hz

TIM vs. output power. RL = 4, TIM FFT analysis. RL = 4, PO =10W.
TIM@10W = 0.003%
Figure 7: Intermodulation distortion (SE)
DATASHEET Page 16 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Intermodulation Distortion (CCIF & TIM) (BTL-mode)

10 +0
5 -10

2 -20

1 -30

0.5 -40

-50
0.2
-60
0.1
d -70
0.05
B
% r -80
0.02
A -90
0.01
-100
0.005
-110
0.002
-120
0.001
-130
0.0005
-140
0.0002 -150

0.0001 -160
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 400 0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
W
Hz

CCIF IMD vs. PO, RL = 4, f1 =18,5kHz, f2 = 1kHz, CCIF IMD analysis. RL = 4, PO =10W.
IMD@10W = 0.0006%.
10 +0

5 -10

-20
2 -30

1 -40

0.5 -50

-60
0.2 d -70
B
% 0.1 r -80

A -90
0.05
-100
0.02 -110

0.01 -120

-130
0.005
-140

0.002 -150

0.001 -160
100m 200m 500m 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 500 0 2k 4k 6k 8k 10k 12k 14k 16k 18k 20k 22k
W Hz

TIM vs. output power. RL = 4, TIM FFT analysis. RL = 4, PO =10W.
TIM@10W = 0.003%

Figure 8: Intermodulation distortion (BTL)

DATASHEET Page 17 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Power vs. Frequency

The maximum allowable short-term output power of the ICEpower250ASX2 is frequency-dependant
due to the compensating Zobel network in the output stage. The short-term output power is defined
as the maximum undistorted (THD+N < 1%) output power until thermal shutdown occurs. The maxi-
mum Full Power Bandwidth is 15 kHz. Above this frequency, the Zobel protection circuit may briefly
shut down the amplifier to protect the Zobel network from damage.

Note that this limitation will never cause problems when the amplifier is fed a music signal at the in-
put, but the limit must be taken into consideration when the amplifier is tested under laboratory con-
ditions using sine waves or noise signals.

Output Impedance
The output impedance is measured by feeding 1ARMS into the output of the amplifier and measuring
the voltage on the output. The voltage then corresponds to the output impedance. The output imped-
ance is measured directly on the terminals on the PCB.

The figure below shows the output impedance from 100Hz – 20kHz BTL-mode (left) and for one
channel in SE-mode (right).

300m 600m

280m 550m
260m
500m
240m
450m
220m

200m 400m

180m 350m
160m
V V 300m
140m
250m
120m

100m 200m

80m 150m

60m
100m
40m
50m
20m

100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k 100 200 500 1k 2k 5k 10k 20k

Hz Hz

SE BTL

Figure 9: Measured voltage at output terminals while feeding 1Arms into the output of the amplifier at PCB.

Loading
With its low output impedance, the ICEpower250ASX2 is designed to be unaffected by loudspeaker
loading characteristics. However, care should be taken with purely capacitive loads.

Traditionally, amplifiers have been tested extensively in laboratories with purely capacitive loads.
This was done to test the amplifier’s stability and performance but it does not relate to any normal
speaker load as even electrostatic speakers do not present a purely capacitive load to the amplifier
but include a resistive part as well. The maximum purely capacitive load allowed is 390nF per chan-
nel in SE-mode or 150nF in BTL-mode.
DATASHEET Page 18 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Dissipated Power vs. Output Power

SE power dissipation
Mains Voltage VIN: 115V/50Hz
SE-version Load im- Rated Line power Output Dissipated
pedance power [W] [W] power (both power [W]
[Ω] channels)
[W]
Idle 14W 14 W
1/8 rated power
(pink noise) 4 190W 74W 2 x 23,75W 26,5W
1/8 rated power
(pink noise) 8 120W 47W 2 x 15W 17W
Continuous output
power 4 60W 160W 2 x 60W 40W
Continuous output
power 8 95W 227W 2 x 95W 37W

Mains Voltage VIN: 230V/50Hz

SE-version Load im- Rated Line power Output Dissipated
pedance power [W] [W] power (both power [W]
[Ω] channels)
[W]
Idle 14W 14W
1/8 rated power
(pink noise) 4 230W 81W 2 x 28,75W 23,5W
1/8 rated power
(pink noise) 8 140W 51W 2 x 17,5W 16W
Continuous output
power 4 60W 158W 2 x 60W 38W
Continuous output
power 8 95W 219W 2 x 95W 29W
Table 18: Dissipated power vs. output power (SE)
DATASHEET Page 19 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

BTL power dissipation

Mains Voltage VIN: 115V/50Hz
BTL-version Load im- Rated Line power Output Dissipated
pedance power [W] [W] power [W] power [W]
[Ω]
Idle 14W 14W
1/8 rated power
(pink noise) 8 420W 74W 52,5W 21,5W
Continuous output
power 8 180W 229W 180W 49W

Mains Voltage VIN: 230V/50Hz

BTL-version Load im- Rated Line power Output Dissipated
pedance power [W] [W] power [W] power [W]
[Ω]
Idle 14W 14W
1/8 rated power 500W 87W 62,5W 24,5W
(pink noise) 8
Continuous output 180W 225W 180W 45W
power 8

Table 19: Dissipated power vs. output power (BTL)

DATASHEET Page 20 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Features
The ICEpower250ASX2 has a number of useful features described below.

Overcurrent Monitor Pin

Figure 10 shows the internal circuit of the OC pin interface. This pin is high (+5V) 10k
100R
during normal operation but it is pulled low (0V) if a short circuit is detected on OC
the speaker output terminals.
This pin is also activated by other protection features such as Zobel protection, C

saturation detection. If any of these protection features are activated, the pin GND
will be pulled low (0V). This pin is only an output.
GND GND GND

Figure 10: Over Current moni-

tor pin interface.

Thermal Monitor Pin To enable

pin
Figure 11 shows the internal circuit of the thermal pin interface. This pin is
high (+5V) under normal conditions. If the amplifier temperature becomes 10k
too high, the pin is pulled low (0V). This can happen if the continuous power 100R
Thermal
drawn from the amplifier exceeds the limits listed on p. 7 and p. 8. This pin
is only an output. C

GND

GND GND GND

Figure 11: Thermal monitor pin interface.

Enable Pin

The enable pin can enable/disable the amplifier. If the pin is left uncon-
nected, then the level is high (+5V) and the amplifier is enabled. If the pin is 10k
100R
pulled low (0V) externally, the amplifier will be disabled. Enable
The enable pin will also be pulled low by the internal protection circuitry if
C
the amplifier temperature becomes too high or a mains undervoltage is de-
tected. This pin is bidirectional. GND

GND GND GND

Figure 12: Enable pin interface.

DATASHEET Page 21 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

BTL Sync Pin

Vdd
4k7
The BTL synchronization pin is used when the amplifier is operated in BTL
mode. When the amplifier is used in BTL mode, the BTL sync pin must be
pulled low (0V). By setting the BTL sync pin low, it is ensured that the switch- 4k7
BTL Sync
ing frequencies of the two separate amplifier channels are tied closely to-
gether for optimized THD performance.
GND 4k7

GND
GND

Figure 13: BTL sync pin interface.

Auxiliary Power Supply

The auxiliary supply can be used to power an external circuit such as

a preamplifier or an equalizer/crossover. Remember that this supply Vd,aux
is unregulated.
When using this AUX supply, please remember to read the sections C
“Shielding and Grounding of Audio Signals” and “Capacitive Loading 1A
of the Aux Supply” in the ICEpower250ASX2 designer’s manual. GND

C
GND
NOTE: Vs,aux
The Vd and Vs outputs are fused. Even brief overloads or short cir- GND
cuits will blow the fuse!

The fuse on the module is a 1A type to keep the inrush-current from blowing Figure 14: Auxiliary supply equiva-
the fuse, but the maximum current draw (sum of current from Vd,aux and lent diagram.
Vc,aux) should never exceed 500mA.
DATASHEET Page 22 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Protection Features
The ICEpower250ASX2 is equipped with several protection features for surviving overload without
damage.
The block diagram below illustrates the different protection features.

Figure 15: Protection schematic

Power Supply Protection

The power supply of the ICEpower250ASX2 has two protection circuits; over temperature and over-
current.

The temperature protection will be activated if the absolute temperature of the circuit is too high.
This can be caused by high ambient temperature, high load (amplifier and AUX supply) for a long
time or a combination of these two parameters.

The over current protection will be activated if the output current to amplifier and/or AUX exceeds
the limits. Please remember that the AUX supply is protected by a fuse which will blow if the supply
is overloaded.
DATASHEET Page 23 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

If one of these protection features is triggered, the power supply either limits its output power or
shuts down. In case of a shutdown, the power supply will rapidly try to restart if the circuit’s temper-
ature is acceptable.

Amplifier Local Protection

The ICEpower250ASX2 has a local protection circuit for each of the two audio channels. This local
protection handles HF protection and saturation detection. If one of these protections features is ac-
tivated on one channel, it will only influence the channel where the error occurred.

The HF protection circuit is implemented to protect the Zobel network against ultrasonic signals
(greater than 15kHz and at full power). This protection circuit has a built-in time constant, so it is
possible to deliver a high frequency, high amplitude signal for a short time.

Amplifier Global Protection

There are two global protection features in the ICEpower250ASX2 amplifier; an over temperature
protection and an overcurrent protection.

The over temperature protection will only occur if the PRMS is greater than the specified Continuous
Output Power. In normal use, the amplifier will not shut down if properly mounted.

The overcurrent detection circuit is included in the ICEpower chipset by detecting saturation of the
control system. This condition will typically be allowed for 100ms to 500ms which is enough to avoid
accidental shutdown at peak currents during high music output. The current limit is set to 30A.
DATASHEET Page 24 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Input/Output Interface
Input stage

The single ended input buffer has an anti-aliasing filtering and a 100R C
Vin channel
DC blocking capacitor. The input impedance of the signal input 1 or 2
section is minimum 8k over the audio bandwidth, which is an
C
acceptable loading condition for pre-amps, active crossover 270k 47k
outputs etc. GND

GND GND GND GND

Figure 16: Single ended input buffer

ICEpower250ASX2
BTL module setup

When using the BTL module, the wiring diagram on fig. 17

should be followed. For optimized THD performance, the BTL
sync pin is pulled low.

Figure 17: Wiring diagram for the BTL module

Output stage

The output stage is a half bridge topology with a 2nd order filter.
L
The filter design is a part of ICEpower’s proprietary MECC topol-
Power +
ogy and has been chosen as the optimal solution between demod- stage L
ulation characteristics, efficiency and filter compactness. The es-
C Cz
sential output characteristics are: -

 The switching residual on the output primarily consists of a Rz

single frequency component at the carrier fundamental fs.

 The system bandwidth is 120 kHz in 8 (SE) and 90 kHz in Figure 18: SE output filter section with compensat-
8 (BTL). ing Zobel network
DATASHEET Page 25 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Operational Timing Diagram

The following diagram shows selected signals during
1 2 3 4 5 6
power up/down (nominal mains).

Timing for changes in mains and enable levels Mains

1. 1000ms
2. 30ms Enable
3. 200us
4. 30ms OC
5. Up to 2,5 seconds (Pout dependent)
6. 30ms
Thermal

Overcurrent and thermal pins have the same re- Audio

sponse delays as the enable pin from when the over out
current or thermal error is detected.
Figure 19: Timing – enable and mains

Thermal Design
Thermal design is generally a great challenge in power amplifier systems. Linear amplifier designs
operating in class A or AB are normally very inefficient and therefore equipped with extensive heat
sinking to keep the transistor junction temperature low. The ICEpower250ASX2 is based on highly
efficient ICEpower switching technology providing high overall efficiency characteristics at all levels
of operation.

Part of the “component” philosophy of the ICEpower250ASX2 module is to provide a self-cooled

component thus eliminating the need for special attention to thermal design.

The ICEpower250ASX2 module is designed for music reproduction, which means that the output
power of the amplifier will never be continuous. Research has shown that the RMS level of any music
signal does not normally exceed 1/8th of the peak value and the power supply is therefore designed
for large short-term power handling and lower continuous power handling. If the average output
power of the ICEpower250ASX2 exceeds 60W @ 4 (SE-mode with both channels driven) or 180W
@ 8 (BTL-mode) for a long time at 25°C ambient temperature, the module will reach its maximum
allowable temperature and the temperature protection will be activated.

Further information about thermal design can be found in the ICEpower ASX2 designer’s manual.
DATASHEET Page 26 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Physical Dimensions
Height 35 mm
Length 210 mm
Width 80 mm

Important! A minimum clearance

of 12 mm. around the module is re-
quired for safety and ventilation rea-
sons.
DATASHEET Page 27 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Figure 20: 3D-view of the ICEpower250ASX2 board

Drill Pattern
All dimensions are in mm. The diameter of the mounting holes is 3.5 mm and max. height above the
PCB is 35 mm.

Figure 21: PCB drill pattern.

DATASHEET Page 28 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Safety Standards
The ICEpower250ASX2 is safety approved by CSA to ease the design-in procedure. The module
complies with the following standards:

Europe: IEC 60065 7th ed.

US: UL 60065 7th ed.

Safety Class
Class 2 (without earth)

ESD Warning
ICEpower products are manufactured according to the following ESD precautions:

 IEC 61340-5-1: Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena. General Re-
quirements.
 IEC 61340-5-2: Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena. User Guide.
 ANSI/ESD-S20.20-1999: Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and
Equipment.

Further handling of the products should comply with the same standards.

The general warranty policy of ICEpower a/s does not cover ESD damaged products due to improper
handling.

Packaging and Storing

Dimensions and weight:

Package Quantity Dimensions (w x d x h) Gross Weight

Carton 12 390 x 420 x 294 (mm) TBD
Pallet 240 1000 x 1200 x ? (mm) TBD

ESD safe cardboard is used for wrapping:

Order Codes Description Part Number

ICEpower250ASX2 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower 8002662
Amplifier with integrated ICE-
power Supply

Storage humidity
Do not expose the pallets to humidity levels higher than 85% or rain.

Storage temperature
The pallets are to be stored at temperatures from 0°C to 70°C.

Stacking
Pallets may not be stacked on top of each other.
DATASHEET Page 29 of 29
ICEpower250ASX2, 2x250W or 1x500W ICEpower Amplifier
with Integrated Power Supply

Version 1.4

Contact
For additional information about the ICEpower® technology from ICEpower a/s, visit our web site or
contact us.

ICEpower a/s
Vandtårnsvej 62A. 3rd floor B
DK-2860 Søborg
Denmark

[Link]
info@[Link]

Legal Notes
ICEpower a/s believes that the information in this datasheet is accurate and reliable. However it is
provided "as is" without any warranties of any kind. ICEpower a/s and its suppliers, to the fullest ex-
tent permitted by law, disclaim all warranties, including the warranty of merchantability, warranty of
non-infringement of third-party rights, and the warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. ICEpower
a/s and its suppliers make no warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness
of the material, services, software, text, graphics and links. In no event will ICEpower a/s be liable to
any party for any damages whether direct, indirect, special, consequential or other for any use or ina-
bility to use of this datasheet, including, without limitation, any damages for lost profits, business in-
terruption, loss of programs or other data on your information handling system or otherwise, even if
we are expressly advised of the possibility of such damages.

Information in this datasheet may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. The infor-
mation in the datasheet may be changed at any time without prior notice or obligation.

ICEpower® is a trademark of ICEpower a/s.

ICEpower a/s products are not authorized for use as critical components in life support devices or
life support systems without the express written approval of the president and general counsel of
ICEpower a/s. As used herein:

 Life support devices or systems are devices or systems which, (a) are intended for
surgical implant into the body, or (b) support or sustain life, and whose failure to
perform when properly used in accordance with instructions for use provided in
the labelling, can be reasonably expected to result in a significant injury to the
user.

 A critical component is any component of a life support device or system whose

failure to perform can be reasonably expected to cause the failure of the life
support device or system, or to affect its safety or effectiveness.