VS300 Transmitter Operations and Maintenance Manual Document:NHB-VS300-OPS Issue: 10.
Nautel Limited 10089 Peggy’s Cove Road Hackett’s Cove, NS Canada B3Z 3J4 Phone: +1.902.823.3900 or Toll Free: +1.877.6NAUTEL (6628835) (Canada & USA only) Fax: +1.902.823.3183 Nautel Inc. 201 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, Maine USA 04401 Phone: +1.207.947.8200 Fax: +1.207.947.3693 Customer Service (24 hour support) +1.877.628.8353 (Canada & USA only) +1.902.823.5100 (International) Email: support@nautel.com Web: www.nautel.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Table of contents Contents Release control record vii Description 1-1 Ac-dc power stage 1-1 Exciter/control stage 1-3 RF drive stage 1-4 RF power stage 1-4 Operating the transmitter User Interfaces 2-1 2-9 Viewing Transmitter Log 2-23 Viewing AUI Tool Menu Panels 2-30 Viewing Real-Time Meters 2-47 Managing Presets 2-54 Enabling Remote Control 2-96 Resetting Alarms 2-96 Viewing Transmitter Status 2-97 System Settings 2-98 System Settings
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Table of contents 3-1 Scheduled maintenance 3-1 Performing on-air checks 3-3 Replacing the exciter/control PWB battery 3-4 Non-standard maintenance 4-1 Upgrading software 4-1 Configuring an audio loss backup preset 4-5 List of terms Page vi 5-1 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Release control record Issue Date Reason 10.0 2019-01-18 Supports hardware NARF64I/02 and NARF64I/03. Supports software version VS SW 5.2 and higher. Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page viii Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Section 1: Description Refer to the functional block diagram: Block Diagram - VS300 Transmitter - see page 1-7. This section provides a high-level description of the transmitter’s key sections.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Power supply module See also electrical schematic Figure SD-1. Power supply module U2 converts the ac input voltage to a regulated dc supply (PA volts) for the PA PWB in the RF power stage. The power supply module is rated for a nominal 2000 W and provides an output voltage between 7 and 53 V (typically 48 V). The module regulates the output voltage based on a PA Volts Control input from the exciter/control PWB (A1).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Exciter/control stage See also electrical schematic Figure SD-1 and Audio Path Block Diagram Figure 1.2 on page 1-8. Detailed schematics are not included in the Troubleshooting Manual. The exciter/control stage performs many critical functions for the transmitter. The primary component of this stage is the exciter/control PWB (A1).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual • Description provides local and remote interfacing for the transmitter. Local interfacing is performed via the front panel display (U5) - a 4 x 20 character LCD display - and its adjacent keypad. The UI contains a menu-based series of pages that serve specific functions. Similar interfacing, as well as more advanced functionality, is available on a remotely accessed AUI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Output power probe See Figure SD-2. The output power probe (A7) accepts the filtered output of the low pass filter and monitors the RF output using several probe circuits. Due to each probe's proximity and orientation to the RF output signal, RF voltages are induced in these probe circuits. The first probe provides forward and reflected power signals to the exciter/control PWB (A1) for control and monitoring purposes.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page 1-6 Description Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Figure 1.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Figure 1.2: Block Diagram - VS300 Audio Path Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Section 2: Operating the transmitter This section provides information about operating the VS300 transmitter: • User Interfaces on page 2-9 – – – – – – – Front Panel UI - see page 2-9 Front Panel UI - Main menu - see page 2-10 Front Panel UI Screens - see page 2-12 Advanced User Interface - see page 2-16 Logging into the AUI - see page 2-18 AUI Pages - see page 2-20 AUI Menu page - see page 2-21 • Viewing Transmitter Log - see page 2-23
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual – – – – – • IBOC settings - VSHD only - see page 2-103 Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizing - Using the AUI - see page 2-104 Calibrating Exciter TCXO - Using the AUI - see page 2-107 Setting FM Polarity - Using the AUI - see page 2-109 Setting FM Polarity - Using the front panel UI - see page 2-110 System Settings - Front Panel UI - see page 2-111 – – – – – – – – – • Operating the transmitter Host Reboot - see page 2-112 OS Recovery - see page 2-112 Configuring Host Wa
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual • User Settings - Front Panel UI - see page 2-153 – – – – – – – – – – – • Setting the Clock - Using the Front Panel - see page 2-146 Network Setup - Using the Front Panel - see page 2-127 Setting Pilot Sample Level - see page 2-154 Signal Generator - see page 2-155 Setting Station ID parameters - see page 2-157 External 10 MHz Input - Using the Front Panel - see page 2-141 Selecting the FM Mask - Using the Front Panel - see page 2-143 Setting Audio Thresholds - Usi
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page 2-4 Operating the transmitter Issue 10.
FRONT PANEL UI First Time Setup Screens displayed during initial turn-on only Top Level Status Screen Main Menu (page 2-10) RF On/Off (page 2-11) Select Preset (page 2-75) User Settings (page 2-153) Edit Presets (see Figure 2-2) Set Clock (page 2-146) Network Settings (page 2-127) Local/Remote (page 2-96) View Status (see page 2-97) View Alarms (page 2-28) Pilot Sample (page 2-154) View Meters (page 2-52) Signal Gen (page 2-155) View Log (page 2-28) Station ID (page 2-157) Clear Log (page 2-2
FRONT PANEL UI Edit Presets Select Preset to Edit or Create New Preset (page 2-75) Output Power (page 2-76) Enable (page 2-64) RDS Settings (page 2-86) Data Source (page 2-64) Frequency Baud Rate (page 2-65) (page 2-78) RDS Level (page 2-64) RDS Phase (page 2-64) PS Name (page 2-65) Main Audio (page 2-80) Source (page 2-81) Scroll Enable (page 2-65) Stereo Mode (page 2-81) Scrolling PS (page 2-65) Preemphasis (page 2-81) Scroll Type (page 2-65) Radio Text (page 2-65) Low Pass Filter (page 2
Remote AUI HOME Menu page 2-16 page 2-10 (Return to) Home page 2-21 Network Setup page 2-127 Email Configuration page 2-131 Presets page 2-54 Status General page 2-56 Main Audio page 2-60 SCA page 2-62 (same as Menu Transmitter Status) page 2-97 Notifications page 2-133 RDS page 2-64 User Settings SNMP Configuration page 2-137 page 2-125 Critical Parameters page 2-139 Other Settings page 2-72 External 10MHz page 2-140 System Settings Logs Exgine Settings page 2-135 Spectrum Mask page 2-14
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter User Interfaces This section includes the following topics: • Front Panel UI • LCD display - see page 2-10 • Front Panel UI - Main menu - see page 2-10 • Navigational buttons - see page 2-11 • Turning RF on and off - see page 2-11 • Saving settings - see page 2-11 • LEDs - see page 2-11 • Front Panel UI Screens - see page 2-12 • Advanced User Interface - see page 2-16 • Logging into the AUI - see page 2-18 • AUI Pages -
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter LCD display This display shows all the UI screens. The display’s top level screen, used for viewing purposes only, is shown in Figure 2.4. Figure 2.4: Top Level Screen The top level screen displays the following information: • Line 1: current time, active preset (P#) and the transmitter’s actual forward power.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Navigational buttons There are six push-buttons on the right-hand side of the LCD display that allow navigation through the UI pages, as well as modifying selected settings. – Up and down - on menu and list screens, moves cursor up and down through the associated page; on edit screens, increases and decreases the value of a parameter being modified.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Front Panel UI Screens Table 2.1 defines the available front panel display screens. Table 2.1: Front Panel UI Screens UI Screen Function First Time Setup Screens VS Series Guides the user through initial setup of the transmitter. Provides prompts to set frequency, output power and audio Quick-Start input. Refer to the VS Series Quick Start Guide, provided Guide in the transmitter’s packing box, for details.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.1: Front Panel UI Screens UI Screen Function See Page User Settings - Edit Presets Mod Loss Edit the selected preset’s modulation loss functionality, such as enable/disable, setting threshold, setting timeout period, setting resulting action and selecting a backup preset. page 2-93 User Settings - Edit Presets Audio Delay Edit the selected preset’s audio delay.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.1: Front Panel UI Screens UI Screen Function See Page User Settings - Transfer Ctrl (if applicable) Control the on/off status of the transmitters, by controlling RF mute circuits. See VS-TC manual Local/Remote Select local or remote control of the transmitter. page 2-96 View Status - View Alarms View all active transmitter alarms.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.1: Front Panel UI Screens UI Screen Function See Page System Settings - LCD Settings Set the front panel display’s contrast, backlight and timeout.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Advanced User Interface The VS300’s advanced user interface (AUI) (see Figure 2.6) is available via remote connection only. To access the AUI, you need a PC (and a web browser) that is connected to the VS300 directly or through a switch - via its rear panel LAN connection (A1J8A). The AUI has a wide range of displays, including: – – – – – – – – Tool menu panels (spectrum analyzer, signal constellation, Lissajous plot, etc.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter The top banner is permanent on all AUI pages and includes: Nautel Logo: From any page, click the Nautel logo to log out and return to the login window. Date & Time: Displays day, month, year and current time. From any AUI page, click the date or time to go to the Time Setup page (see Setting the Clock on page 2-144).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Reset: Resets protection circuits and power supplies that were inhibited, but are now alarmfree. To initiate an alarm reset from the front panel UI, see Resetting Alarms on page 2-96. Log Out: Click to log out of the AUI session and return to the login menu. To log in again, use your remote PC’s keyboard to enter your Username and Password, then click the Submit button.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.7: AUI Login Menu IP address and login messages Note: The Nautel AUI is factory configured with a default login username and password. Nautel recommends that you change the password to improve overall system security (see Changing the Password on page 2-123). Also, you should change the OS (operating system) password. This is a unique, factory set password that is referenced in your Proof of Performance documents.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Pages Table 2.2 defines the available AUI pages. Table 2.2: AUI Pages AUI Page Function Home View meters, tool menu panels, choose options and navigate to page 2-16 other pages. Menu Choose options and navigate to other pages. page 2-21 Log View and analyze transmitter events. page 2-23 Tool Menu Choose tool menu panel options. page 2-31 System Review Choose meters for display.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Menu page From the home page, click the Menu button to view the Menu page (see Figure 2.8). From this page, you can select one of the following sub-menus: Figure 2.8: Main Menu Page • Select Home to return to the home page (see AUI Pages on page 2-20). • Select Presets to load, edit, or save presets (see Managing Presets on page 2-54).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Select User Settings to access a page that provides help with performing network configuration, email configuration, alarm notifications, SNMP configuration, capturing critical transmitter data, using an external 10 MHz source, setting a spectrum mask, setting the system date and time, configuring NTP servers, using Nautel Phone Home technology, setting the call sign/ID and setting low audio (see Setting Audio Low Thresholds on page 2-15
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Viewing Transmitter Log This section includes the following topics: • Transmitter Log - Using the AUI • Managing the log - see page 2-24 • Transmitter Log - Using the front panel - see page 2-28 You can view transmitter log information using the remote AUI (see Transmitter Log - Using the AUI on page 2-23) or the local front panel UI (see Transmitter Log - Using the front panel on page 2-28).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Refer to the VS300 Troubleshooting Manual to cross-reference the alarm name to possible causes and troubleshooting tips. The number of log matches displayed is shown below the Log Manager button (e.g., 564 Matches Sorted by Time of Event). You can scroll through the list using the scroll bar or the up and down arrow buttons to the right of the scroll bar.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Filter Logs You can filter transmitter events based on their origin or date by clicking the Filter Logs button in the log manager (see Figure 2.10 on page 2-24). Click the Device Type drop-down arrow, and select the desired device type to filter events based on the type selected. Click the OK button or the Cancel button when done.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Click the Delete All checkbox and click OK to delete all events. Click the Delete by date checkbox to allow deletion of events that occurred prior to (Older than) a user-specified date and time. Use the up and down arrows to select the date and time and click OK to delete the specified events. Click the Cancel button to close this window and discard changes. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.13: Log Statistics Selects item at top of current page Selects next lower page items Scrolls up one item Scrolls down one item Selects next higher page items Selects item at bottom of current page Legend Click on the Legend button in the log manager (see Figure 2.14) to display a legend that describes the meaning of the symbols shown in the State and Severity columns of the Log page. Click OK or Cancel to close this window.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Transmitter Log - Using the front panel When you select View Status -> Alarms or View Status -> View Log from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.15), you can view various active or logged events, respectively, of the VS300. These parameters are displayed on multiple pages of Meters screens. Note: This screen is for viewing purposes only and does not offer the same level of analytical features as the AUI’s Log page (see Figure 2.9 on page 2-23).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter View Software Versions - Front Panel UI. The View SW Versions screen displays the current versions of the different software being used in the transmitter (see Figure 2.16). Figure 2.16: View Software Versions View RDS Demod - Front Panel UI. The View RDS Demod screen displays decoded data from the internal RDS generator, if enabled (ON) in the associated preset (see Figure 2.17).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Viewing AUI Tool Menu Panels This section includes the following topics: • Describing AUI Tool Menu Options - see page 2-31 • AUI Tool Menu Panels Procedures - see page 2-33 • Available Instrument Panels - see page 2-35 • Spectrum analyzer - see page 2-35 • Equalizer screens - see page 2-37 • Lissajous plot - see page 2-40 • Oscilloscope - see page 2-41 • AM-AM and AM-PM correction screens - see page 2-43 The VS300 AUI provi
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Describing AUI Tool Menu Options Click on the desired tool menu panel to display it. See Table 2.3 on page 2-32 for a description of each tool menu panel. Figure 2.19: Tool Menu Options The AM-AM Correction, AM-PM Correction and Power Distribution tool menu icons appear only when the transmitter is operating with a VSHD exciter. The Audio Processor icon only appears when the Orban Inside audio processor is installed and enabled. Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.3: Tool Menu Panels Tool Menu Description Reference Spectrum Displays a spectrum analyzer, capable of monitoring various RF sections of the transmitter, including the RF output. See page 2-35 EQ Frequency Response Displays the frequency response of the modulator’s EQ filter. See page 2-37 EQ Impulse Response Displays the impulse response of the modulator’s EQ filter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Tool Menu Panels Procedures Each instrument panel has a menu bar that may be different from other panels (see Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.21: Instrument Cursor Manipulation Cursor Tools to move cursor and display information Figure 2.22: Instrument Panel - Expansion Example Maximize/Minimize buttons Page 2-34 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Available Instrument Panels Figure 2.23: Spectrum Analyzer Peak Cog Spectrum analyzer See Figure 2.23. The carrier level is normalized to its unmodulated carrier level at 0 dB. The graph center is always at the carrier frequency, as defined by the active preset’s Frequency value.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Click the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (frequency and amplitude) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Click on other areas of this instrument panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position. Use the left and right buttons to make fine adjustments. Use the maximize or minimize buttons as required.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Note: The FM spectrum analyzer displays the ideal spectrum generated by the DSP. It is not necessarily the same as the spectrum seen at the RF output. Equalizer screens The VS300’s exciter includes a fixed equalizer to optimize audio performance. There are three menus available in the tool panel - EQ Frequency, EQ Impulse Response and EQ Filter Delay. Coefficients are selected based on your channel frequency.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Use the left and right buttons to make fine adjustments to the cursor position. Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the panel size. Figure 2.26: EQ Impulse Response EQ impulse response See Figure 2.26. This panel displays the impulse response of the modulator’s EQ filter. Click on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.27: EQ Filter Delay EQ filter delay See Figure 2.27. This panel displays the delay of the modulator’s EQ filter across its bandwidth. Click on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (frequency and delay) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Click in other areas of the panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.28: Lissajous Plots L and R mode I and Q mode Lissajous plot See Figure 2.28. This panel displays a Lissajous plot that represents either left and right audio content or a representation of the FM modulated signal (I and Q). I and Q will be automatically selected when using MPX as the main audio source. Left and right audio content is displayed for all other audio sources.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.29: Oscilloscope (Left/Right Audio input shown) Cog Stop Play Oscilloscope See Figure 2.29. This panel displays an oscilloscope to allow monitoring of audio input parameters. The oscilloscope displays a real-time waveform for the selected audio input (e.g., L/R audio input). The audio input(s) being monitored is displayed in the upper, left-hand corner of the panel (e.g., R in green, L in blue for L/R audio input.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.30: Measurement Source Settings Use the ‘stop’ button to display a snapshot of the waveform for analysis, printing, etc. Use the ‘play’ button to resume the live, real-time display of the waveform. Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the panel size. Page 2-42 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AM-AM and AM-PM correction screens Available only when the transmitter is used with a VSHD exciter. When the transmitter is operating with digital carriers, the exciter linearizes the transmitter’s RF drive signal by performing adaptive pre-correction. There are two correction parameters - AM-AM Correction (see Figure 2.31) and AM-PM Correction (see Figure 2.32 on page 2-44), which can be viewed as instrument panels. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.32: AM-PM Correction AM-PM correction This panel displays the phase correction being applied to the RF drive signal. The x-axis represents the signal amplitude and the y-axis represents the phase shift correction applied for a given amplitude value. Click on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (phase and LUT index) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.33: Power Distribution Plot Power distribution See Figure 2.33. Available only when the transmitter is used with a VSHD exciter. The exciter measures the relative power levels of the signal and determines the probability of exceeding a given power level, relative to the average power. The data is plotted in the Power Distribution Plot as a CCDF (complementary cumulative distribution function).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.34: Signal Constellation Signal constellation See Figure 2.34. The exciter constantly measures the transmitter signal and performs basic demodulation of the digital carriers. The Signal Constellation panel displays the phase and amplitude of the symbols being modulated within an OFDM sub-carrier as dots on a cartesian graph. There are separate screens for each sub-carrier.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Viewing Real-Time Meters The AUI can be used to display metered parameters on the Home page (see Figure 2.36), if selected individually from the Meters List View page or saved in a meter list layout and set to default.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Describing the meter display The meters displayed in the AUI represent the active meters selected for display. Each meter is a colour-coded bar with minimum and maximum values (see Figure 2.36). The current value for a meter is indicated by an arrow on the colour-coded bar, as well as a numeric value below the meter. • A parameter value in the green section of a meter bar indicates the parameter is within the range for normal operation.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.36: VSHD Meter List View Window (Controller Shown) X to close/delete Scroll Bar Information Buttons (displays full set of meters for specific sub-device) Identifying meter information on a specific sub-device 1. Open the Meters List View window and select one of the desired transmitter sub-devices. – Controller – Exciter – HD Exciter (with VSHD connected) 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.37: Detailed Sub-System Information (Controller shown) Figure 2.37 displays the status of the selected sub-system, as well as real-time meter values. The Alarms section shows any active alarms pertaining to the sub-system. Page 2-50 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Saving a meter list Note: Meter lists are associated with user accounts. Lists saved in this screen are only displayed in the current user account. Setting a list as default will define the meters that will appear when logging into the current account (or after an ac power interruption in the local AUI if this is the default user account).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter View Meters - Using the front panel When you select View Status -> View Meters from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.39) you can view various metered parameters of the VS300. These parameters are displayed as a list on the View Meters -> Controller or Exciter screens. Note: This screen is for viewing purposes only and does not offer the same level of analytical features as the AUI’s Meter List View page (see Figure 2.36 on page 2-49). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Controller Meters: RMS Forward -15V Fan 1 Reflected +5V A VSWR PA Volts A +3.3V DC Power In PA1 Curr +1.8V DC-RF Eff Heatsink Temp +1.2V Avg PA Diss +48V Battery PA1 Bias Fwd -15V Dig 2 R Refl +5V A MPX SCA** PA VSWR +5V B MPX RMS*** PA V +3.3V AGC Lim PA Curr +1.8V MPX Lim PA Bias +1.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Managing Presets This section includes the following subjects: • Managing Presets - Using the AUI • Loading presets using the AUI - see page 2-55 • Activating presets using the AUI - see page 2-55 • Editing or creating presets using the AUI - see page 2-56 • Managing Presets - Using the front panel - see page 2-75 Presets contain operational data (power, frequency, mode, program inputs) for the transmitter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Loading presets using the AUI When first entering the Presets page, the current “active” preset is displayed (see Figure 2.40 on page 2-54). If the current preset is not the desired one, use the Load button on the left-side of the AUI to call up a window containing a list of available presets. Select the desired preset and press the OK button to view or enable editing of the preset. Press the Delete button to delete the selected preset.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Editing or creating presets using the AUI When a presets page is opened from the main menu, the Current Settings of the transmitter are displayed. They define the current operational state of the transmitter. Current Settings can be edited and then immediately activated by pressing the Save button. To edit a saved preset, you must load that preset from the Presets page (see Loading presets using the AUI on page 2-55).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual • Operating the transmitter Mode: Set the overall transmission mode. Available options are: • FM: an analogue only mode, transmits a carrier, frequency modulated with audio. • HD: all digital mode; this mode transmits the upper and lower digital sidebands of OFDM IBOC carriers. HD transmitter is typically high-level combined (coupler or spatial) with a paired FM only transmitter. See page 2-57 for additional calibration settings.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Note: The actual digital sideband power is 3 dB less than that indicated in the upper or lower IBOC Injection fields; i.e. if -20 dBc is entered in the upper and lower IBOC Injection fields, the upper and lower digital sideband power levels are actually -23 dBc; this way, when added, the resultant total digital power level is -20 dBc.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.42: Presets - General Tab (FM and FM+HD Mode shown) Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Main Audio tab: (see Figure 2.43) • Audio Source: Connects the appropriate exciter input for use. Available options are: – Analog Left/Right: this source allows for further configuration via Analog Level, Audio Mode (Mono L+R, Mono L, Mono R, Stereo), 15kHz Lowpass, Preemphasis, Main Audio Gain Adjust settings. See page 2-61 for additional configuration information.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Main audio - additional configuration settings: – Audio Player Source: applies to Audio Player -> AES 2 source only; select the desired audio playlist. – Analog Level: applies to Analog Left/Right source only; enter value between -12 and +12 dBu, which represents the input voltage level that yields 100% modulation (Default is 0.0 dBu).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter SCA tab: (see Figure 2.44) • MPX SCA: Connector (J7:A for SCA1, J7:B for SCA2) for use with an externally generated SCA; select Enabled or Disabled. When enabled, all the selections listed below are active. – Input Level: signal level that represents 10% modulation. Enter a value between 1 and 5 V p-p (typically 3.50 Vpp).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.44: Presets - SCA Tab (scroll to see all options) Note: Check your local broadcast regulatory body’s guidelines for allowable modulation depth with SCAs or RDS enabled. Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter RDS tab: (see Figure 2.45 on page 2-67) For RDS operation, an external unit or software can send data to the exciter, serially or over IP. The exciter generates the RBDS/RDS carrier and injects the data; externally generated, or alternatively, the Presets page offer a means to configure internally generated data.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter – Baud Rate (displayed only when Data Source is ASCII over Serial or UECP over Serial): select 150, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 or 115,200 bps (default is 19200). Does not apply to the Internal data source. The Presets -> RDS page selections below Baud Rate apply only to the Internal data source. – PI Code (hex) (Program Identification code): enter four hex digits that represent the station call sign (e.g.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter displayed on the receiver based on the receiver configuration and capability (e.g., maximum number of characters on the screen). Default is blank. – PTY: this coding of up to 32 (0 to 31) pre-defined programme types allows users to find similar programming by genre. Default is 0: NONE/NONE. – PTYN (programme type name): this field can be used for detailed description of the PTY by 8 digits.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.45: Presets - RDS Tab (scroll to see all options) Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter RDS Remote Protocol. The following information is intended to assist users with remote RDS settings using the ASCII protocol. Assigning Settings: To assign a value to a setting, send the setting name, the equal sign (=) and the desired value. If the setting is valid, the exciter responds “OK”. If the setting is invalid, the exciter responds “NO”.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter TCP Usage Use TCP port 7005. This is not user configurable. To use RDS over IP, the connection must be opened before each command. List of Settings: Table 2.4 lists the RDS settings supported by Nautel, including descriptions and examples. Note: Remote setting of the RDS baud rate is not supported. Table 2.4: Supported ASCII Settings for RDS Setting Name Description/Example PI= Four hex digits representing the station call sign.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.4: Supported ASCII Settings for RDS Setting Name Description/Example AF1= ... AF25= If the station broadcasts on more than one frequency using translators or repeaters, these are typically set to each of the frequencies used in the broadcast network. Alternative Frequency Sample calculation for 98.5 MHz: (98.5-87.8) x 10 = 107 Example: AF1=107 NOTE: there is no method to disable AFs in this protocol.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.4: Supported ASCII Settings for RDS Setting Name Description/Example UTC= Range is 0 to 24, 32 to 56. Sets the current time zone. To calculate this value, multiply the time offset by 2 and add 32 if the time offset is negative. For Newfoundland (UTC-3.5), 3.5 x 2 = 7, and add 32 (since the time zone is negative) to yield 39. This is a non-volatile setting.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Other Settings tab: • Pilot Level: enter value between 6 and 12% (typically 9%); this level is added to the composite baseband • Pilot 1 PPS Sync: select Enaled or Disabled. If Enabled, enter: – Pilot Sync Phase (enter value between 0 and 360 degrees; typically 0 degrees) • Audio Delay: Used to time align the receiver output of decoded analog and digital audio signals. Select Enabled or Disabled.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual • Operating the transmitter AGC Limiter: If Enabled, when the modulation level exceeds the AGC Limit, the gain of the audio input will instantly decrease in order to reduce the modulation level below the AGC limit threshold. Recovery from this audio gain reduction is dependent on the Time Constant delay (fast attack, slow recovery). The input signal is briefly distorted by the audio gain reduction when the threshold is exceeded. Select Enabled or Disabled.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.46: Presets - Other Settings Tab (scroll to see all options) Saving presets. Click the Save button to save preset information. Deleting presets. From the Presets page, click the Delete button. Highlight the preset you wish to delete, noting you cannot delete an active (on-air) preset. Click the Delete button to delete the preset from the list. Click the Cancel button or X to close this window and return to the Presets page.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Managing Presets - Using the front panel Many preset settings available on the front panel UI are also available on the remote AUI. In this case, if you change a preset setting on the front panel UI, it will also be reflected on the remote AUI, and vice versa. Selecting the active preset When you choose Select Preset from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.47) you can select the active preset for transmitter operation. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.49: Create New Preset screen Figure 2.50: Preset Editing menu Displayed only when VSHD exciter is used Within the preset editing menu, use the up and down buttons to scroll through the options and press the accept (checkmark) button to enter the selected editing menu/screen. Press the cancel (X) button to return to the previous menu. Parameters that can be edited are: Output Power. See Figure 2.51 on page 2-77.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.51: Output Power screen Table 2.5: Maximum power level set points ** Maximum Power Set Point Limit (W) (linearly interpolate between frequencies) Mode and IBOC Injection Level (as applicable for IBOC modes) 88.0 MHz 98.0 MHz 108.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Frequency. See Figure 2.52. Use the up and down buttons to edit the output power (in 0.01 MHz increments, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to return to the previous menu. Figure 2.52: Frequency screen IBOC Mode. See Figure 2.53. Use the up and down buttons to locate the desired mode of operation - FM, FM+HD or HD, then press the 'accept' (checkmark) button to save the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.55: IBOC Settings editing screens • IBOC Injection: Use the up and down buttons to select an IBOC injection level between -20 and -10 dBc (in 0.1 dB increments), then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Main Audio. When you select Main Audio from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit various main audio parameters (see Figure 2.56). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Source: Use the up and down buttons to locate the desired audio source - AES, MPX, Analog L/R or Audio Player -> AES 2, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.58: Input Levels editing screens • Bal L/R Level: Select a level between -12 and 12 dBu. • MPX Level: Select a level between 1 and 5 V peak-to-peak. • Digital Level: Select a level between -25.5 and 0 dBFS. Backup Audio. When you select Backup Audio from the Preset editing options screen, you can enable a backup audio source and edit various backup audio parameters (see Figure 2.59). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Pilot Settings. When you select Pilot Settings from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit the settings of the pilot signal (see Figure 2.60). Figure 2.60: Pilot Settings menu Use the up and down buttons to move the cursor to the desired pilot setting and then press the right button to enable editing of the parameter. Figure 2.61 shows all the editing screens for the Pilot Settings menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter SCA Settings. When you select SCA Settings from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit various SCA parameters (see Figure 2.62). Figure 2.62: SCA Settings menu Use the up and down buttons to move the cursor to the desired SCA setting and then press the right button to enable editing of the parameter. Figure 2.63 shows all the editing screens for the SCA Settings menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.64: Internal SCA1 and SCA2 editing screens • SCA Enable: Select ON or OFF. • SCA Level: Select a level between 0 and 20%. • SCA Freq: Select a frequency between 20 and 100 kHz. • SCA Input: Select a level between -12 and 12 dBu. • SCA Low Pass: Select ON or OFF. • SCA Preemph: Select the desired pre-emphasis characteristic - 0 us, 50 us, 75 us or 150 us. • SCA Mode: Select FM or DSB-SC. Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter RDS Settings. When you select RDS Settings from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit various RDS parameters (see Figure 2.65). If you change a preset setting on the front panel UI, it will also be reflected on the remote AUI, and vice versa. Note: RDS Settings have been described in detail in the remote AUI section. See page 2-64 for more information. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.66: RDS Settings editing screens Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.67: DI Code editing screens Figure 2.68: AF Data editing screen Page 2-88 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Limiter Settings. When you select Limiter Settings from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit various limiter parameters (see Figure 2.69). Figure 2.69: Limiter Settings menu Use the up and down buttons to move the cursor to the desired limiter and then press the right button to enter the associated sub-menu for: • Hard Limiter (see Figure 2.70) • AGC Limiter (see Figure 2.71 on page 2-90) • 2-Slope Limiter (see Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.70: Hard Limiter sub-menu and editing screens • Enable: Select ON or OFF. • Limit: Select a value between 0 and 160%. Figure 2.71: AGC Limiter sub-menu and editing screens • Enable: Select ON or OFF. • Limit: Select a value between 0 and 160%. • Time Constant: Select a value between 0 and 100 ms. Page 2-90 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.72: 2-Slope Limiter sub-menu and editing screens • Enable: Select ON or OFF. • Limit: Select a value between 0 and 160%. • Gain: Select a value between 0 and 100%. Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.73: L/R Limiter sub-menu and editing screens Use the up and down arrows to select ON or OFF, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu. Default selection is OFF. Use the up and down arrows to select a time constant between 0 and 60 s, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.74: MPX RMS Limiter sub-menu and editing screens Use the up and down arrows to select ON or OFF, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu. Default selection is OFF. Use the up and down arrows to select a limit between -12 and 12 dBr, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.76: Mod Loss editing screens • Enable: Determines whether the audio loss feature is used. Select ON or OFF. • Threshold: Sets the audio threshold below which the transmitter will take action. Select a value between 0 and 100%. • Timeout: Sets the time period of low audio (based on the threshold setting) after which the transmitter will take action. Select a value between 0 and 14400 seconds (240 minutes).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Audio Delay. When you select Audio Delay from the Preset editing options screen, you can edit or disable the audio delay period (see Figure 2.77). Figure 2.77: Audio Delay menu Use the up and down buttons to change the audio delay setting between disabled and any time period between 0 and 13 seconds, then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Enabling Remote Control Users can enable remote control via the front panel display (see Using the front panel below). AUI users are by default using the transmitter in remote mode. Using the front panel When you select Local/Remote from the Main Menu, you can set the local/remote operating control for the VS300 (see Figure 2.79). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Viewing Transmitter Status You can view the VS300’s operational status using the AUI’s Transmitter Status page - see Figure 2.81. This page shows current active alarms to aid in fault diagnosis. To view the Transmitter Status page, click the Status button in the AUI’s bottom banner. Click X to return to the home page. You can also use the front panel UI to view active alarms (see Transmitter Log - Using the front panel on page 2-28).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter System Settings This section includes the following topics: • Rebooting the AUI or Exciter - see page 2-100 • Upgrading Software - see page 2-101 • Calibrating Audio Inputs - see page 2-102 – Calibrating Audio - Using the AUI - see page 2-102 – Calibrating Audio Inputs - see page 2-121 • IBOC settings - VSHD only - see page 2-103 • Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizer - see page 2-104 – Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizing - Using the AUI - see
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.82: Main Menu - System Settings The following options are available: • Reboot: Allows for rebooting of the AUI or the exciter (active or standby, as applicable) (see Rebooting the AUI or Exciter on page 2-100). There is also a host reboot function, available through the front panel UI (see Host Reboot on page 2-112). • Upgrade Software: Allows for uploading software upgrade files for various transmitter sub-systems (e.g.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Rebooting the AUI or Exciter You can reset (reboot) the AUI or the exciter using the remote AUI Reset page. To view the AUI’s Reboot page (see Figure 2.83), select Reboot from the System Settings option. Figure 2.83: System Settings - Reboot • To reboot the AUI, click the Reboot AUI button. This will function with remote control enabled or disabled.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Upgrading Software The AUI’s Upgrade Software page (see Figure 2.84 on page 2-101), in the System Settings list, allows for uploading a suite of software upgrade files (.tgz files) via remote connection. Navigate the page as described below. For additional information on loading software, see Upgrading software on page 4-1. The page consists of the following sections and button. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Calibrating Audio Inputs You can calibrate analog and MPX (composite) audio inputs using the remote AUI (see Calibrating Audio - Using the AUI) or the local front panel UI (see “Calibrating Audio Inputs” on page 2-121). Note: Audio inputs are factory set using a high accuracy source and do not typically require user adjustment.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter IBOC settings - VSHD only This system setting (see Figure 2.86) allows users to establish Forward Tap Delay, FM+HD Low Inj Gain, FM+HD High Inj Gain and HD only system Gain levels. It also allows for an IBOC power calibration. Changes apply to the active exciter (A or B) only. To calibrate the other exciter, switch to the other exciter and repeat the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizer The Spectrum/Eff. Optimizer page (or the HD Optimizer screen) allows users to optimize the transmitter’s spectrum and/or efficiency. You can perform this optimization using the remote AUI (see Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizing - Using the AUI) or the local front panel UI (see HD Optimizing - Using the front panel UI on page 2-105). Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizing - Using the AUI To view the AUI’s Spectrum/Eff.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Required Mask Delta - Sets the value (between -10 db and 10 dB) that is considered to be absolutely required. If this level is exceeded, the digital power from the transmitter will be reduced if the PA voltage is at maximum. If the spectral mask still cannot be met and the setting for it is enabled, the transmitter power set-point will be reduced. • Reduce Digital Power If Required: Select Yes or No.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.89: HD Optimizer Screens Select ON to allows the optimizer to adjust the PA voltage setting to maximize efficiency based on the transmitter output spectrum. Depending on other settings in this section, it may require other actions to maintain the transmitter’s compliance. Select OFF to disable. When disabled, other HD Optimizer settings will have no effect.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Calibrating Exciter TCXO You can calibrate the internal clock reference to an external 10 MHz clock or manually enter an offset value using the remote AUI (see Calibrating Exciter TCXO - Using the AUI) or the local front panel UI (see Calibrating Exciter TCXO - Using the front panel UI - see page 2108).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Calibrating Exciter TCXO - Using the front panel UI To view the front panel’s TCXO calibration screens (see Figure 2.91), select System Settings -> Exc TCXO from the Main Menu. Figure 2.91: Front Panel - TCXO Calibration Use the up or down arrow to place the cursor next to TCXO Offset, then press the accept (checkmark) button to enter the TCXO Offset screen.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter FM Polarity The FM Polarity page (see Figure 2.92) allows users to invert the polarity of the frequency modulation. You can set FM polarity using the remote AUI (see Setting FM Polarity - Using the AUI) or the local front panel UI (see Setting FM Polarity - Using the front panel UI - see page 2-110). Note: Adjusting FM polarity is used to synchronize transmitters for a single-frequency network.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting FM Polarity - Using the front panel UI To view the FM Polarity screen, select System Settings -> FM Polarity from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.93). Figure 2.93: System Settings - FM Polarity Screen Use the up and down buttons to toggle between + Comp = – Freq Dev and + Comp = + Freq Dev. The default setting is + Comp = – Freq Dev. Press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter System Settings - Front Panel UI WARNING: System settings are established at Nautel and should not require any adjustment. Making changes to these settings may void your warranty. Contact Nautel before making changes. You can establish calibration values and fault thresholds for critical parameters of the VS300 using the remote AUI or the local front panel UI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Host Reboot From the front panel UI, you can reboot the host on the exciter/control PWB. To view the Host Reboot screen, select System Settings -> Host Reset from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.94 on page 2-112). Note: A host reboot can also be performed from the remote AUI, using the Reboot AUI button on the Reboot page (see Rebooting the AUI or Exciter - see page 2-100).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.95: System Settings - OS Recovery Screen Use the up and down buttons to toggle between Force OS Recovery and Cancel. Press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change. Select Cancel or press X to abort the recovery and return to the previous menu. Configuring Host Watchdog Note: Host watchdog configuration is only available using the front panel UI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Firmware Update A firmware update is available using the front panel UI. It can also be performed from the remote AUI, using the Upgrade Software page in the System Settings menu (see “Upgrading Software” on page 2-101). Once the host (SBC) is reset, all users that were remotely connected (logged in) will be logged out. From the front panel UI, you can update firmware used in the transmitter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter This menu has four sub-menu options: • LCD Contrast - sets the display contrast. • LCD Backlight - sets the brightness of the display’s backlight during normal use. • LED Timeout - sets a time delay, after a period of non-use, that the brightness of the display’s backlight will dim. This feature can also be disabled.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Configuring Installed Hardware From the front panel UI, you can configure the transmitter for any installed hardware that has optional variations (e.g., quantity of exciters or LVPS modules, fan speed) or is non-standard (e.g., audio processor). To view the HW Config screen, select System Settings -> HW Config from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.100). Note: Hardware configuration settings are only available using the front panel UI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Installed Exciter From the front panel UI, you can configure the transmitter for the type/location of the installed exciter. To view the Installed Exc screen, select System Settings -> HW Config -> Installed Exc from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.101). Figure 2.101: Installed Exciter Screen Use the up and down buttons to select the appropriate exciter configuration - Internal VS Exciter, VS HD Exciter or External FM Exciter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Adjusting Factory Settings Note: Factory settings are only available using the front panel UI. CAUTION! Changing values in the System Settings -> Factory Settings menu is not normally required, and should only be performed by trained personnel. Information on some of these sub-menus is not included in the manual. Contact Nautel for assistance.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Thresholds Note: Threshold settings are only available using the front panel UI. WARNING! Threshold settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment. These settings affect critical system protection circuits. Making changes to these settings may void your warranty. Contact Nautel before making changes. From the front panel UI, you can set alarm thresholds for critical parameters.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Calibration Note: Most of the calibration settings are only available using the front panel UI. Calibration of audio related parameters (see Figure 2.104) can also be performed using the remote AUI (see “Calibrating Audio Inputs” on page 2-102). From the controller’s UI, you can calibrate various parameters. To view the Calibration menu (see Figure 2.104), select System Settings -> Factory Settings -> Calibration from the Main Menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Calibrating Audio Inputs. Use the up or down arrow to place the cursor next to the desired audio input calibration item (Bal L Cal, Bal R Cal, MPX Cal or MPX SCA Cal, then press the accept (checkmark) button to enter the selected audio input. With the appropriate calibrated audio source(s) applied, use the up and down arrows to set the new calibration value for the selected audio input.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting User Accounts Note: This function is only available via remote connection to the AUI. Depending on user permissions, you can set up accounts to allow certain users to access and control features of the AUI using the User Accounts Page - see Figure 2.106. To view the User Accounts page, select User Accounts from the Menu options. Click X in the upper, right corner to close this page, discard changes and return to the home page.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting User Type There are four user type selection options, each with their own specific functionality. All users have permission to change their own username and password, but are otherwise limited to the following functions: • View Only: Pre-defined user type. Can monitor equipment data only. No administrative or control functions. • Administrator: Pre-defined user type. Can perform all functions.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Procedure to change user permissions (see Figure 2.106 on page 2-122): 1. Open the User Accounts page. 2. Select a user from the Users list to display the permissions for that user in the center of the Permissions window. The permissions associated with the selected user are identified with a checkmark (). 3. Press on User Type to reveal a drop-down menu and select a new type of user. 4.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter User Settings - AUI Note: Unless otherwise noted, the following functions are only available via remote connection to the AUI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Notifications: Allows configuration of email notifications to be sent for user-selected alarm occurrences (see Notifications on page 2-133). • Exgine Settings: Allows you to set signal parameters and determine IP information for use with the Exgine option (VSHD only). See Configuring Exgine Settings - VSHD exciter only on page 2-135. • SNMP Configuration: Allows configuration of SNMP settings (see SNMP configuration on page 2-137).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Network Setup You can configure network settings using the local front panel UI (see Network Setup - Using the Front Panel or the remote AUI (see Network Setup - Using the AUI on page 2-130). If you change a network setting on the front panel UI, it will also be reflected on the remote AUI, and vice versa. Note: Nautel recommends that the following network settings be entered/vetted by a qualified Network Administrator.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.108: Network Settings Screens All addresses shown are for reference purposes only Displays a number that serves as unique network adapter identifier. This is set by the manufacturer and is displayed for informational purposes only (cannot be user set). It may be necessary to use this number to allow the AUI to access your network.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Connecting a Laptop Directly to the Transmitter If connecting to the VS300 directly with a laptop, you must set a static IP address on the VS300 and your laptop. 1. From the front panel UI’s Main Menu, go to User Settings -> Network Settings and set the IP address as follows: • DHCP: OFF • IP Address: 10.10.10.2 • Netmask: 255.255.255.0 2. Set the transmitter for Remote control.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Network Setup - Using the AUI Note: Nautel recommends that the following settings be entered/vetted by a qualified Network Administrator. By entering the VS300’s established IP address into an Internet browser’s address bar, and then logging into the AUI, you can view and edit the network parameters (see Figure 2.109). You must have remote control enabled to edit network settings using the remote AUI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Email Configuration Email configuration (see Figure 2.110) allows you to configure email parameters (e.g., email server and port number), and is required if the notification feature is used (see Notifications on page 2-133). Note: Nautel recommends that the following settings be entered/vetted by a qualified Network Administrator. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Transmitter Name: Set to a name that associates to the transmitter such as station identification (e.g., VS_WXYZ). This name will be included in notification emails. • Sender Email Address: Enter as a standard email address (e.g., a@b.com). This will be the sender address that notification email recipients will see. Free web based email service accounts (Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo mail etc.) are acceptable here.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Notifications The notifications feature (see Figure 2.111) provides a means for the transmitter to issue emails or texts (SMS messages) triggered by user defined alarm events. If you use this feature, you must also configure an email (see Email Configuration on page 2-131). Figure 2.111: Notifications To configure the notifications feature, perform the following steps: 1.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.112: Notifications Adding/Updating Page 2-134 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Configuring Exgine Settings - VSHD exciter only The Exgine Settings page allows you to set signal paramaters and determine IP information for use with the Exgine option (see Figure 2.113 on page 2-136) Procedure to configure Exgine Settings: 1. Open the User Settings page by pressing Menu/User Settings on the Home page. 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.113: Exgine Settings - with VSHD installed only 4. When finished, press Apply to accept your entries or press Cancel to ignore your changes and exit this window. Page 2-136 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter SNMP configuration The SNMP configuration page provides a user with a means to configure the SNMP agent and the associated traps (see Figure 2.114). Figure 2.114: User Settings - SNMP Configuration Configure the SNMP agent as follows: 1. Enter the first five fields, noting the following: • Agent Port: Enter the UDP port where the SNMP agent checks for requests. The default setting is 161.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 2. Select the Enable Traps check box () to allow the SNMP agent to send trap notifications, and to display two additional fields associated with traps. Enter the two additional fields as follows: • Trap Receiver IP: Enter the IP address of the computer to which the SNMP agent will send trap notifications. The computer must be running an SNMP application that is configured to receive traps.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Critical parameters You can capture critical parameter data for the transmitter’s current state using the AUI’s Critical Parameters page (see Figure 2.115). To view this page, select Critical Parameters from the User Settings page. From this page, you can press Capture Meters (reads all meter values), Capture Alarms (reads all active alarms), Capture Presets (reads the current active preset) and Capture Settings (reads current settings, e.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter External 10MHz This setting (see Figure 2.116) allows users to employ the clock signal from a connected external 10 MHz source in FM mode; the setting is unused in HD or FM+HD. When No is selected, the external 10MHz source will be ignored and the exciter's internal clock signal will be used. If Yes is selected, disconnecting the external 10 MHz source will result in constant “No External 10MHz" alarms and logs.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter External 10 MHz Input - Using the Front Panel To view the enable/disable screen for the external 10 MHz input (see Figure 2.117), select User Settings -> Ext. 10 MHz Inp from the Main Menu. Figure 2.117: Front Panel - External 10 MHz Input screen Use the up or down arrow to toggle between ON (using external 10 MHz input) and OFF (not using external 10 MHz input), then press the accept (checkmark) button to save the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Spectrum Mask Using the Spectrum Mask setting users can select the appropriate FM mask standard (FCC, ETSI or None) being used by the analyzer. The selection affects the mask lines on the remote AUI’s Spectrum Analyzer instrument. You can select the FM mask standard using the remote AUI (see Selecting the FM Mask Using the AUI) or the local front panel UI (see Selecting the FM Mask - Using the Front Panel on page 2-143).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Selecting the FM Mask - Using the Front Panel When you select User Settings -> FM Mask from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.119) you can select the appropriate FM mask standard (FCC, ETSI or None) being used by the analyzer on the remote AUI. Figure 2.119: FM Mask Screen Use the up and down buttons to toggle between FCC FM Mask, ETSI FM Mask and No FM Mask. The factory setting is FCC FM Mask.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting the Clock The VS300’s internal clock uses a backup battery, and therefore maintains an accurate date and time, even during power outages. The date and time needs to be set when the transmitter is first installed, or after a power outage if the backup battery has failed.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter The Time Setup option allows users to set the exact time and date information as well as regional and timezone settings for a transmitter location. Procedure to set up the time and date: 1. Select the Time Setup option from the left-side of the User Settings page to open a related window on the right-side of the page. 2. Enter Time and Date parameters and press Apply. Press Cancel to discard changes.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting the Clock - Using the Front Panel When you select User Settings -> Set Clock from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.121) you can set the current time and date. The time appears on the top line of the top level screen (see Figure 2.4 on page 2-10). Figure 2.121: Set Clock screen Time zone offset (displayed only if the Timezone is set via the remote AUI) Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter NTP servers You can configure one or more NTP (Network Time Protocol) servers to allow clock synchronization with all computers on the same network as the transmitter. To view the AUI’s NTP Servers page (see Figure 2.123), select NTP Servers from the User Settings options. There are several functions available on this page - enabling NTP, monitoring NTP server status and managing servers.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Monitoring NTP Servers The NTP Server Status section displays tabular information on the NTP servers connected to the network. The table includes remote name, IP address, delay, offset and jitter. • Remote Name: Displays the host name of the referenced time source. An asterisk (*) in the first column marks the reference time source that is currently preferred by the NTP daemon.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Nautel Phone Home Phone Home is a system developed by Nautel that takes advantage of the vast amount of data collected by Nautel transmitters by proactively sending information to the cloud via the internet once a user enables Phone Home on their transmitter. This data includes logs, alarms and meter readings which are then stored in a database and can be analyzed by Nautel staff if an alarm is reported by the transmitter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting call sign/ID The Call Sign/ID screen (see Figure 2.125) allows users to set a name that identifies the transmitter on the AUI. This identification will be displayed in brackets on the top transmitter banner of the AUI (see Figure 2.126). Enter the call sign or ID in the field and press Apply (maximum 15 characters in length). Figure 2.125: User Settings - Call Sign/ID Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting Audio Low Thresholds You can set thresholds for the main audio and SCA sources (trip level and timeout) using the remote AUI (see “Setting Audio Low Thresholds - using the AUI”) or the front panel UI (see “Setting Audio Thresholds - Using the Front Panel” on page 2-152. These thresholds determine the limit for an associated low audio power alarm to be activated.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting Audio Thresholds - Using the Front Panel When you select User Settings -> Audio Low from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.128), you can establish the low audio thresholds and timeout delays for the main audio and SCAs. If you change a setting on the front panel UI, it will also change on the remote AUI, and vice versa. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter User Settings - Front Panel UI You can establish various user settings for the VS300 using the local front panel UI.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting Pilot Sample Level Note: Setting the pilot sample is only available using the front panel UI. From the front panel UI, you can set the level of the sine-wave pilot sample that is applied to the PILOT SAMPLE OUT (A1J4A) BNC connector on the rear of the controller (A4). To view the Pilot Sample screen, select User Settings -> Pilot Sample from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.130 on page 2-154). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Signal Generator Note: Signal Generator is only available using the front panel UI. From the front panel UI, you can configure the test signal generator output of the VS300. Note that a different menu will appear depending on the currently configured test signal type. To view the Signal Gen screen, select User Settings -> Signal Gen from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.131). Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.132: Signal Generator Editing Screens Select ON (enabled) or OFF (disabled). Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu. Default is OFF. Select a type - None, Sine Wave, Sine Sweep or Band limited Noise. Press the cancel (X) button to discard changes and return to the previous menu. Select a level between 0 and 100%.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting Station ID parameters Note: Station ID settings are only available using the front panel UI. In certain applications, the VS300 may be used as a translator to re-broadcast primary information as a secondary station on an alternate frequency. To allow the secondary station to be identified, you can set station ID parameters such as call sign, FSK deviation and repeat interval.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.134: Station ID Editing Screens Page 2-158 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting Low Forward Power Thresholds Note: Low forward power settings are only available using the front panel UI. When you select User Settings -> Fwd Low from the Main Menu (see Figure 2.135), you can establish the low forward power thresholds for the VS300. There are two thresholds available low power and very low power. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Turn-On Delay Setting Note: Changing the Turn-On Delay setting is only available using the front panel UI. From the front panel UI, you can set the transmitter’s turn-on delay. This setting determines the time delay for the transmitter to recover from an ac power loss. This is typically used in sites with multiple transmitters on a common generator.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Ramp-Up Speed Setting Note: Changing the Ramp-Up Speed setting is only available using the front panel UI. From the front panel UI, you can set the transmitter’s ramp-up speed. This setting establishes the time it takes the transmitter to ramp up from 0 W to full power. At 100%, ramp-up speed is approximately seven seconds. For a setting of 50%, ramp-up would be approximately 14 seconds.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Configuring Remote Inputs and Outputs Note: This function is only available via remote connection to the AUI. However, you can view the status of remote inputs and outputs on the front panel display. You can configure your remote input/output interface for the transmitter using the remote AUI (see Remote I/O Settings - Using the AUI) or using the local front panel UI (see Remote I/O Settings - Using the Front Panel UI on page 2-172).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Remote Inputs - AUI Using the Remote Inputs tab (see Figure 2.139 on page 2-162), you can configure up to 10 remote inputs that allow you to remotely control various operational characteristics of the transmitter. Unless otherwise noted, these inputs are only accepted by the transmitter if the remote/local status is set to remote. Nautel sets remote input defaults prior to shipping. See the VS300 Pre-installation Manual for details.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.140: Select a Remote (input window) Configure Input control logic - AUI You can configure the active/inactive control logic for each of the 10 remote inputs. Click the existing Logic bar to display the applicable drop-down menu options, which may include: • Rising Edge Turn On/Reset. Logic ‘1’ (high or rising edge) activates the input (or causes a reset, as appropriate). • Falling Edge Turn On/Reset.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Active High, Decrease. Logic ‘1’ (high) causes a power decrease. • Active Low, Decrease. Logic ‘0’ (low) causes a power decrease. Click Apply to activate changes. Click Undo to cancel changes. Remote outputs - AUI Using the Remote Outputs Page - see Figure 2.141, you can configure up to 16 remote outputs that indicate either the presence of various alarms or the status of operator controlled circuits.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Select output channel - AUI You can configure remote outputs 1 through 16 to monitor a variety of alarm and status outputs. Click the existing Channel bar to display the Select a Remote window (see . From this window, select one of the channels, then click Load to accept: • Not Assigned. No alarm or status parameter is monitored. • RF On/Off. The active logic level indicates the transmitter’s RF power stage is on (enabled).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Output Low When RF On. Logic ‘0’ (low) indicates the output is true (RF is on); Logic ‘1’ (high) indicates the output is false (RF is off). • Output Low When RF Off. Logic ‘0’ (low) indicates the output is true (RF is off); Logic ‘1’ (high) indicates the output is false (RF is on). if the selected channel is Local/Remote, the drop-down options are: • Output Low When Local.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Analog Outputs There are four analog outputs - forward power, reflected power, average PA voltage and total PA current - that can be remotely monitored (see Figure 2.143). These outputs are factory defined parameters (cannot be changed to other parameters), however their scaling can be configured to reflect the output voltage that yields a full-scale deflection.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Site Control Settings You can use the AUI’s Site Control page (see Figure 2.144) to locally or remotely configure remote inputs and outputs for use with external site control equipment (air conditioner, etc.). This page allows the user to create and configure custom inputs and outputs and assign them for use using the Remote Inputs and Remote Outputs pages.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.145: Site Control Rule Editing Window • In the Name section, enter a name for the rule. This will display on the Site Control page, as well the Logs page, when triggered. • In the Severity section, use the drop-down menu to select Low, Medium or High. The selected severity level will display on the Status page and Events Log. See Figure 2.14 on page 2-27 for a description of the severity levels for logged events.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • In the Input section, use the drop-down menu to select the desired input (alarm, status or custom input) that will affect the rule. Note that a second input may also be selected in conjunction with a logic operation if the Operator section contains the AND, OR or XOR function. • In the Logic section, use the drop-down menu to select “Is True” or “Is False” to indicate the trigger for the assertion of the rule.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Remote I/O Settings - Using the Front Panel UI To view the Remote I/O screen (see Figure 2.146) on the front panel display, select User Settings -> Remote I/O from the Main Menu. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.147: Remote Inputs Screens (Input 1 shown) Use the up and down buttons to select the desired remote input (1 through 10) from the list. Each screen shows the current remote input parameter (e.g., RF On/Off), as well as the polarity (e.g., Falling edge RF On) and current state (e.g., high, low) of the corresponding input pin.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.148: Remote Outputs Screens (Output 1 shown) Use the up and down buttons to select the desired remote output (1 through 16) from the list. Each screen shows the current digital output parameter (e.g., RF On/Off), as well as the polarity (e.g., RF On = Low) and current state (e.g., high, low) of the corresponding output pin.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.149: Analog Outputs Screens Use the up and down buttons to select the desired analog output (1 through 4) from the list. Each screen shows the analog output parameter (e.g., Forward Power, Reflected Power, Avg PA Volts or Total PA Current), as well as the meter reading (actual and full-scale) and the output pin voltage (actual and full-scale). Press cancel (X) to return to the previous menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Scheduler If the scheduler is enabled (see Enabling the Scheduler on page 2-177), you can program a preset schedule for the transmitter. Use the Scheduler page (see Figure 2.150) to set the dates and times at which presets take effect. You can define up to 63 different schedule rules. To view the Scheduler page, select Scheduler from the Menu options. Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter When you click in the Rules list, you have the option to edit or delete an existing rule, or to create a new rule. Click the New or Edit button to display the Rule Explorer window (see Figure 2.151 on page 2-176). Click Delete to remove a rule from the list. Use the Rule Explorer window as follows: • In the Time of Year section, set the start (From:) and end (To:) dates for the rule. Start to end dates must be less than one year apart.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.152: Enabling/disabling the scheduler - AUI When Scheduler: ON appears, the transmitter will follow the Scheduler settings. When Scheduler: OFF appears, the transmitter will stop following the schedule and the active preset will be the preset that was operating when the scheduler was disabled. Enabling the Scheduler - Front Panel To view the Scheduler enable/disable screen (see Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Audio Player The built-in audio player (see Figure 2.154) can use a file playlist, Livewire or Shoutcast as an audio source. These sources must be configured before they can be used. This section describes how to configure audio player sources. To view the Audio Player page, select Audio Player from the Menu options. The Audio Player page has two selectable tabs: • Playlist - see page 2-180 • Streams on page 2-182 Figure 2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Playlist The Playlist tab (see Figure 2.155) displays the audio files and sequence that currently make up the playlist. Only audio files that are supported (e.g., .wav or .mp3 files) will be played. For .mp3 files, using files with bit rates equal to or less than 96 kbps achieves best audio results.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter The Available Files on USB section is used for adding audio files to the playlist (Add Files button) or refreshing the playlist (Refresh button) . Audio files must be stored on an external USB device plugged into the USB-A (A1J8B) or USB-B (A1J8C) connector on the rear of the controller; they are not stored in the transmitter. Only the audio files stored in the root directory of the most recently connected USB device appear on the playlist.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Streams The Streams tab (see Figure 2.156 on page 2-181) of the VS300 is capable of playing audio streams in either Icecast/Shoutcast or Livewire format. The audio player supports Icecast/Shoutcast playlists and IP addresses for audio streams. For an Icecast or Shoutcast playlist enter the URL for the station. For an audio stream, enter the URL for that stream.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Adding an Audio Stream 1. From the Streams tab (see Figure 2.157 on page 2-182), click the Add button. 2. Use the drop-down menu to select the desired Type of audio stream - Shoutcast or Livewire. 3. Enter the appropriate information for the audio server (Name and URL for Shoutcast; Name and Channel for Livewire). Make sure the VS300 can access the location. 4. Click OK to add the audio stream or click Cancel to discard changes.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Enabling and Operating the Orban Audio Processor This section describes how to configure, enable and operate the optional Orban audio processor after it is installed in your transmitter. You can interface with audio processor functionality locally, using the front panel UI or the remote AUI. The extent of the features available depends on which interface is used.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Configuring the Transmitter for the Orban Audio Processor Note: Audio processor configuration is only available using the front panel UI. Configure the VS300 to recognize the presence of the Orban card using the front panel UI as follows: 1. With the transmitter turned on and in local mode of operation, navigate to the front panel UI's Main Menu -> System Settings -> HW Config menu.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Enabling the Orban Audio Processor for Preset Selection Enable the Orban audio processor to allow preset selection using either the front panel UI (see Orban Enabling - Using the Front Panel) or the remote AUI (see Orban Enabling - Using the Remote AUI - see page 2-187) as follows: Note: Enabling the Orban audio processor locally will cause the remote AUI to display an enabled setting.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.160: Enabling the Orban Audio Processor - Front Panel UI A B OR C D E Orban Enabling - Using the Remote AUI 1. With the transmitter turned on, connected to a remote monitoring PC or laptop and in remote mode of operation, navigate to the AUI's Main Menu -> Presets page. 2. For the applicable preset, click the Other Settings tab (see Figure 2.161 on page 2-188). 3.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.161: Enabling the Orban Audio Processor - Remote AUI Selecting an Orban Audio Processor Preset Select an Orban audio processor preset using either the front panel UI (see Selecting an Orban Preset - Using the Front Panel) or the remote AUI (see Selecting an Orban Preset - Using the Remote AUI on page 2-189) as follows: Note: Selecting an Orban preset locally will cause the remote AUI to also reflect the change.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Selecting an Orban Preset - Using the Front Panel 1. From the User Settings -> Edit Presets -> (Select desired preset to edit) -> Main Audio -> Audio Processor menu (see Figure 2.162), select Preset. 2. Use the up and down arrows to scroll through the list of available Orban presets (e.g., ROCK-LOUD, etc). Select the desired preset and press the 'accept' (checkmark) button to activate.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Managing an Orban Audio Processor Preset Orban presets contain many audio processing settings, including stereo enhancement, AGC, EQ, final clipping and distortion. From the remote AUI (not available from the front panel UI), you can create Orban presets, manage their various settings and save the preset settings to a text file.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.164: AUI Main Menu - with Audio Processor icon Figure 2.165: Audio Processor Menu - Less More Tab Shown Slider bar (green section) Current Setting Adjustment Buttons Loading and Saving Orban Presets The left-hand side of the Audio Processor pages has four buttons (see below). Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter When you first enter the Audio Processor page, the current preset is displayed. If the current preset is not the preset you want to work with, click the Load button to call up a window containing a list of alternate presets. Presets that display an 'F' are factory presets that cannot be modified. Presets that display a 'U' are user presets that can be modified.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter There are two types of Orban audio processor presets: factory presets and user presets. Factory presets, designated by an 'F' in the Load or Save screens, cannot be modified. When a factory preset control is changed, a new preset is automatically created. This preset's default name will be the same as the Orban preset with an asterisk (*) prefix (e.g., * EXTREME).
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.167: Audio Processor Menu - Stereo Enhancer tab Figure 2.168: Audio Processor Menu - AGC tab NOTE: The AGC Ratio range displays as Inf:1 to 2:1. Although you cannot set the AGC Ratio to Inf:1 (it will default to 4:1), some Orban presets are defaulted for an Inf:1 setting. Nautel recommends you edit the setting to an appropriate ratio (4:1, 3:1 or 2:1). Page 2-194 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.169: Audio Processor Menu - EQ tab Figure 2.170: Audio Processor Menu - Final Clipping tab Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.171: Audio Processor Menu - Multiband tab Figure 2.172: Audio Processor Menu - Compressors Tab Page 2-196 Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.173: Audio Processor Menu - Bandmix Tab Figure 2.174: Audio Processor Menu - Distortion Tab NOTE: The number of adjustable controls may vary with the type of Orban Preset (e.g., ROCK-LOUD, COUNTRY UL, etc.) Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page 2-198 Operating the transmitter Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Section 3: Routine maintenance This section provides instructions for performing routine maintenance on the VS300 transmitter.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Checking hardware All hardware must be checked at least once a year. Nautel recommends more frequent checking if the VS300 is subjected to above average thermal cycling, caused by turning the VS300 on and off. • To prevent damaging the hardware, ensure that the proper size tools are used. In most cases, hardware is metric. • A mounting surface or terminal that has changed colour indicates a loose hardware connection.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Performing on-air checks You should check the on-air quality of the transmitter’s signal periodically. This check can be done locally at the transmitter site, or remotely from another location in the transmitter’s coverage area. Interval Every 12 months, or as required by law. Parts and tools • High-quality receiver, compatible with the modulation scheme used on the transmitter. Procedure 1.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Replacing the exciter/control PWB battery Replace the battery on the exciter/control PWB (A1) once a year, or whenever the Controller Low Battery alarm appears (on the front panel UI or via remote AUI). Chemical leakage from an old battery can cause damage. Also, the exciter/control PWB’s microcontroller may not retain its settings if ac power is turned off while the backup battery power is low.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Section 4: Non-standard maintenance This section provides instructions for performing non-standard maintenance on the VS300 transmitter. This section includes the following topics: • Upgrading software • Configuring an audio loss backup preset - see page 4-5 Upgrading software Periodically, enhancements or improvements to the operating system are identified and made available.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Transferring upgrade file The following steps assume either the laptop will be used to connect directly to the transmitter OR the transmitter and network computer are currently connected to the same network. Transmitter IP configuration 1. From the transmitter AUI, go to Menu/User Settings/Network Settings. 2. Record your current network settings (IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, etc.). 3.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance 6. In the Local Area Connection Properties window, select OK. 7. In the Local Area Connection Status window, select Close. 8. Close the Network Connections window. Transfer software upgrade file to transmitter 1. If using a laptop, connect the laptop network interface card to the transmitter LAN (A1J8A) connector on the rear panel using a CAT5 Ethernet cable. Open Internet Explorer and search for 10.10.10.2.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Installing new software 1. Set the transmitter to RF Off and for Remote control. Perform the following steps remotely using the AUI on the laptop. 2. Go to the AUI’s Menu/System Settings/Upgrade Software screen and select the update *.tgz file from the Select Upgrade Files list (should highlight in blue) and press Start Upgrade. 3.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Configuring an audio loss backup preset The VS300 contains an audio level detection circuit that can be used, when enabled, to allow switching to a secondary (backup) audio input source upon the loss of the primary source.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Figure 4.2: Backup Preset Main Audio Screen 3. The setup page for the selected preset should now appear. Click the Main Audio tab (see Figure 4.2). 4. Click the Audio Source field’s drop-down arrow to view the available audio sources. Select the desired backup audio source. 5. Configure the other fields associated with your Audio Source selection. 6.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Figure 4.3: Saving the Backup Preset Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Configuring the primary audio preset 1. Go to Menu/Presets/Load. The Load Preset window in Figure 4.1 shall display. 2. Select your primary or normal preset to allow editing of its audio loss parameters. Click Load. 3. The setup page for the selected preset should appear. Click the Other Settings tab (see Figure 4.4 on page 4-8). 4. Open the Mod Loss Timeout field’s drop-down menu. Select Enabled.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Notes: SCA, RDS and Pilot modulation levels are additive and contribute the audio level. If their combined levels exceed the audio loss threshold level, a preset change will not occur. Stations with audio content containing extended nulls or silent periods (e.g., classical music) should consider reducing the audio loss threshold or increasing the timeout period. 5. After configuring the audio loss parameters, click the Save button. 6.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page 4-10 Non-standard maintenance Issue 10.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual List of terms Section 5: List of terms This section defines some of the terms that are used in Nautel documentation. AES-EBU. Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union (AES/EBU) is the name of a digital audio transfer standard. The AES/EBU digital interface is usually implemented using 3-pin XLR connectors (the same type connector used in professional microphones). One cable carries both left-channel and right-channel audio data to the receiving device.
VS300 Operations and Maintenance Manual List of terms Preset. A setting that controls power level, frequency and audio parameters. The VS300 allows you to pre-program multiple presets. PWB. Printed Wiring Board. Shutback. A complete, but temporary loss of RF output power, caused by any one of a variety of faults, including high VSWR, high reject load power, RF drive failure, or an open external interlock. Shutdown. A complete and permanent loss of RF output power.
VS300 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL Document: NHB-VS300-OPS Issue: 10.0 2019-01-18 Nautel Limited 10089 Peggy’s Cove Road Hackett’s Cove, NS Canada B3Z 3J4 Toll Free: +1.877.6NAUTEL (662.8835) (Canada & USA only) or Phone: +1.902.823.3900 or Fax: +1.902.823.3183 Nautel Inc. 201 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, Maine USA 04401 Phone: +1.207.947.8200 Fax: +1.207.947.3693 Customer Service (24-hour support) +1.877.628.8353 (Canada & USA only) +1.902.823.5100 (International) Email: Web: support@nautel.
