Norsat NewsLink Operator’s Manual June 2003
Page ii Please read this entire guide Veuillez lire entièrement ce guide Bitte das gesamte Handbuch durchlesen Sírvase leer completamente la presente guía Si prega di leggere completamente questa guida Important Please read this entire guide before you install or operate this product. Give particular attention to all safety statements. Important Veuillez lire entièrement ce guide avant d’installer ou d’utiliser ce produit. Prêtez une attention particulière à toutes les règles de sécurité.
Page iii Notices Trademark Acknowledgments Norsat is a registered trademark of Norsat International, Inc. The Norsat logo is a registered trademark of Norsat International, Inc. All other trademarks shown are trademarks of their respective owners. Disclaimer Norsat International, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions that may appear in this publication. Norsat reserves the right to change this publication at any time without notice. Copyright ©2003 Norsat International, Inc.
Page iv Norsat NewsLink 099-20003-01OM Norsat
Contents Notices iii Trademark Acknowledgments Disclaimer Copyright Revision History Preface iii iii iii iii ix Text Conventions ix Definitions, Abbreviations and Acronyms Protocols and Standards x xii CHAPTER 1 Safety Precautions 1 CHAPTER 2 Norsat NewsLink Overview 3 Features 3 System Operation 3 CHAPTER 3 Norsat NewsLink Cases 7 CHAPTER 4 Antenna/RF Unit 9 Antenna/RF Unit Cases 9 Antenna 11 Transceiver 11 Peripherals 11 Compass Inclinometer Level Norsat NewsLink 11 12
Page vi Interface/Indicator Unit Ku-L Block Down-converter CHAPTER 5 Baseband/IF Unit 13 Baseband/IF Unit Case 13 Baseband/IF Unit Interfaces 14 IFL Interface Panel Test Interface Panel Power Interface Panel Auxiliary Interface Panel Audio Monitor Interface Panel Analog Audio In Interface Panel Video In Interface Panel Digital Signal In Interface Panel L-Band Interface Panel GPS Receiver Interface Panel 14 15 16 16 17 17 17 17 17 18 Baseband/IF Unit Functionality 18 Transmit and Output Power Set
Page vii Satellite Information Transmission Profiles Transmit Frequency Presets Transmit Power Quick Keys LNB Selection Antenna Alignment 51 Transmitter Control 59 Keyboard Shortcuts Transmitter Status CHAPTER 8 Storing the Norsat NewsLink Storing the Baseband/IF Unit Powering Down the Baseband/IF Unit Closing the IF Unit Case CHAPTER 9 62 63 71 71 71 71 Disconnecting Peripherals from the Baseband Unit 71 Disconnecting the Antenna and Baseband Units 72 Storing the Antenna/RF Unit 72 Trouble
Page viii Norsat NewsLink 099-20003-01OM Norsat
Preface Text Conventions Norsat NewsLink • Text appearing in Courier font indicates characters to be typed in; e.g. type Shell indicates that the word “Shell” must be entered exactly as it appears, with the first letter capitalized. • Text appearing in Bookman Old Style font indicates a directory path or filename; e.g. c:\Program Files. • Text enclosed in angle brackets indicates a field entry; e.g. indicates that a PID value must be entered.
Page x Definitions, Abbreviations and Acronyms Norsat NewsLink A Ampheres AC Alternating Current BER Bit Error Rate CW Continuous Wave dB Decibels dBi Decibels Relative to an Isotropic Radiator dBm Decibels Relative to 1 Milliwatt dBW Decibels Relative to 1 Watt DC Direct Current DTS Decoding Time Stamp DVB Digital Video Broadcast DVB-S DVB over Satellite EIRP Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power ETSI European Telecommunications Standards Institute FCC Federal Communications C
Page xi Norsat NewsLink SDI Synchronous Digital Interface SES Société Européenne Des Satellites SNG Satellite News Gathering SSPA Solid State Power Amplifier TS Transport Stream Tx Transmit / Transmitter USB Universal Serial Bus W Watt 099-20003-01OM Norsat
Page xii Protocols and Standards Norsat NewsLink 10BaseT IEEE 802.3 10Base-T Standard 100BaseT IEEE 802.3 100Base-T Standard ANSI American National Standards Institute, web.ansi.org ARP Address Resolution Protocol ASI Asynchronous Serial Interface DAVIC Digital Audio-Visual Council, www.davic.org DSM-CC ISO/IEC 13818-6 DVB Digital Video Broadcast Project, www.dvb.org DVB-S ETS 300 421 Digital Satellite Transmission Systems IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, www.
CHAPTER 1 Safety Precautions IMPORTANT All safety precautions should be read and understood prior to deploying the Norsat NewsLink. WARNING FCC INFORMATION FOR UNINTENTIONAL RADIATOR PORTIONS AS PER FCC 15.19, 15.21 AND 15.105 “This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Page 2 Never place any part of the body between the antenna dish and the antenna feed horn assembly, or in line with the direction of the antenna transmission path when the Norsat NewsLink is in operation. Locate the terminal as far as practical from ungrounded metal. GROUNDING When used within urban areas, it is suggested that the Norsat NewsLink be earthed via a grounding electrode in strict accordance with National and Local electrical codes.
CHAPTER 2 Norsat NewsLink Overview The Norsat NewsLink is a portable satellite terminal that provides broadcast quality MPEG-2 video transmission, communicating with a central teleport or HUB station. Its design allows it to be carried by two people, with an in field deployment and setup time by a camera operator of less than 15 minutes.
Norsat NewsLink 099-20003-01OM Digital Audio Unbal. Audio 1,2,3,4 Bal.
Page 5 Satellite information may be setup prior to on-location arrival, in addition to Transmission Profile(s) that detail the system settings, including the creation of a transport stream and setup of video and audio PIDs. The Norsat NewsLink is enclosed in three cases; the Baseband/IF case and the two Antenna/RF cases: RF and Antenna Unit case, Model 3200-RF, and Accessories case, Model 3200-AC.
Page 6 Norsat NewsLink 099-20003-01OM Norsat
CHAPTER 3 Norsat NewsLink Cases The cases that house the Norsat NewsLink Antenna/RF and Baseband/IF units are weatherproof, and there should be no water penetration when all winglocks are properly secured. The cases will provide shock and vibration protection during storage, transport and, in the case of the Baseband/IF unit, operation. However, care should be taken when handling the cases in consideration of the enclosed electronic equipment of the Norsat NewsLink.
Page 8 FIGURE 2. Antenna/RF Unit Cases. FIGURE 3. Baseband/IF Unit.
CHAPTER 4 Antenna/RF Unit The Antenna/RF unit is comprised of the following components: • Antenna • Transceiver • Peripherals A diagram of the Antenna/RF unit cases are given in the next section, followed by descriptions and specifications for each of the above listed components. Antenna/RF Unit Cases The Antenna/RF unit contains the components that comprise the antenna. Figure 4 on page 10 shows the disassembled antenna components when stored, and Figure 5 on page 10 shows the assembled antenna.
Page 10 FIGURE 4. Antenna/RF Unit Stored. RF and Antenna Unit case, Model 3200-RF, on the left and Accessories case, Model 3200-AC, on the right. FIGURE 5. Antenna/RF Unit Deployed.
Page 11 Antenna The antenna consists of the dish reflector, feed horn, OMT, flex waveguides, boom arm with built in rigid waveguide and mechanical support structure. The mechanical support structure positions and points the antenna reflector in order to aim the antenna beam at the required satellite. Transceiver The Transceiver consists of block upconverter/transmitter, a 15 W or 25 W solid state power amplifier (SSPA) and a low-noise block (LNB) downconverter.
Page 12 at new locations or if the magnetic environment/interface changes. Refer to “Compass Calibration” on page 89 for instructions on re-calibration. Inclinometer The inclinometer has a digital display with an accuracy greater than 0.5 degrees and is powered by a standard 9 V battery. The inclinometer is mounted on the mechanical support of the antenna, located on the right hand side of the RF back plate, in order to accurately indicate the elevation of the antenna beam.
CHAPTER 5 Baseband/IF Unit Baseband/IF Unit Case The Baseband/IF unit case contains: Norsat NewsLink • 70-L upconverter • L-25 MHz receive signal downconverter • L-25 MHz transmit monitoring signal downconverter • Spectrum Analyzer module • DVB-S receiver card • Modulator • MPEG-2 Encoder 099-20003-01OM Page 13
Page 14 FIGURE 6. Baseband/IF Unit. Baseband/IF Unit Interfaces The Baseband/IF unit interfaces are: • IFL interface panel • Test interface panel • Power interface panel • Auxiliary interface panel • Audio Monitor interface panel • Analog Audio In interface panel • Video In interface panel • Digital Signal In interface panel • L-Band interface panel • GPS Receiver interface panel The following sections describe the connectors located on each panel.
Page 15 Receive IF (RX) The Receive IF (RX) connector is a 50 ohm N-type female connector, which is colour coded green. The signals supplied on this interface are: NOTE • Receive IF: the received signal amplified and downconverted by the LNB. • 24 V DC: supplied by the Baseband/IF unit to power the LNB. This cable is a 50 ohm cable rather than the usual 75 ohm cable for receive systems. The LNB has a 75 ohm connection, however, the impedance is changed in the Interface/Indicator unit.
Page 16 receiver modem via this interface. There is no DC on this interface and no DC should be supplied by any equipment attached to this interface. Modulator Output (TX 70 MHZ OUT) The Modulator Output connector is a 50 Ω BNC female connector. This interface provides the 70 MHz output of the modulator to the user. Normally this interface is looped back to the Upconverter Input connector. Upconverter Interface (TX 70 MHZ IN) The Upconverter Interface connector is a 50 Ω BNC female connector.
Page 17 Control In The Control In connector is a multi-pin amphenol female connector. This connects the laptop to the baseband/IF chassis. Audio Monitor Interface Panel Receive Audio Out Ports 1 & 2 Receive Audio Out Port 1 contains audio channels 1 and 2, and Receive Audio Out Port 2 contains audio channels 3 and 4. Each Receive Audio Port consists of two 1/8 inch mini jacks. The receive audio out port monitors the audio input to the MPEG encoder.
Page 18 GPS Receiver Interface Panel GPS Receiver The GPS Receiver connector is a multi-pin amphenol female connector.
Page 19 Audio & Video Encoding The MPEG-2 Encoder accepts a single video and four mono audio inputs, which are processed and compressed to produce an MPEG-2 transport stream. The video inputs accepted are either: • Composite video • SDI (optional) A latency of either NORMAL (HIGH QUALITY) or LOW (REDUCED QUALITY) may be selected. NOTE There is a trade-off between the encoder latency and the quality.
Page 20 tion data. The GPS data is accurate to within 100 m in longitude, latitude and altitude. Both the GPS receiver and antenna are part of the Baseband/IF unit. Spectrum Analyzer The Spectrum Analyzer provides the capability to view the received and transmitted spectrums. On the receive side, the Spectrum Analyzer aids in alignment and verification of correct satellite acquisition.
CHAPTER 6 Norsat NewsLink Deployment The following procedures describe the steps required to deploy the Norsat NewsLink. WARNING ! FCC RF EXPOSURE INFORMATION To satisfy FCC RF exposure requirements for mobile transmitting devices, a separation distance of 2.5 meters or more should be maintained between the antenna of this device and persons during device operation. To ensure compliance, operations at closer than this distance is not recommended.
Page 22 FIGURE 7. Assembled Antenna. Opening the RF Unit Cases 1. Position the RF unit cases such that the arrow label on the unit points upward. 2. Press the button in the center of the pressure-equalization valve until the airflow through the valve ceases. CAUTION This valve must be manually pressed in order to equalize the pressure inside the case before opening the case.
Page 23 Deploying the Antenna This section details the procedure for assembling the components of the antenna. 1. The RF and Antenna Unit case, model 3200-RF, contains the base of the antenna; refer to Figure 8 on page 23. FIGURE 8. RF and Antenna Unit Case (Model 3200-RF). 2. The Accessories case, model 3200-AC, contains the remaining components of the antenna; refer to Figure 9 on page 23. The top layer contains the legs, IFL cable and Power cord.
Page 24 Support Legs 1. Remove the three base support legs and feet; refer to Figure 10 on page 24. FIGURE 10. Support Leg and Foot. 2. Insert the foot support rod into the foot. 3. With the support base remaining in the case, attach each of the three support legs to the support base; refer to Figure 11 on page 24: FIGURE 11. i. Slip the two pins at the top of the leg into the guide slots on the support base. ii. Once in place, turn the hand wheel clockwise, until tight, to secure.
Page 25 iii. Elevation fastening collars: quantity 2 FIGURE 12. Elevation Rod, Knobs and Nuts. 2. Remove the two elevation fastening collars and one quick action knob from the elevation rod. 3. Slide the first quick action knob onto the elevation rod to the required position, approximately 1/3” from the bottom, by depressing button. 4. Insert the elevation rod through the elevation base support hole, from the underside of the base; refer to Figure 13 on page 25. FIGURE 13. Elevation Base Support Hole.
Page 26 FIGURE 14. Elevation Rod Inserted into Support Base. 6. Thread one fastening collar on the elevation rod approximately 2 inches. 7. Slide the elevation rod into the dish elevation support hole; refer to Figure 15 on page 26. FIGURE 15. Elevation Rod Inserted into Dish Elevation Support Hole. 8. Thread the second fastening collar to the elevation rod, and tighten both collars to block to lock in place.
Page 27 Reflector Dish The dish is divided into four reflector panels that each comprise a quarter of the dish. One reflector panel is permanently fastened to the support base, leaving three reflector panels to be assembled. 1. Remove the three unsecured reflector panels from the Dish Reflector Pouch. 2. Locate the reflector panel with the A label, and align it with the A label on the permanently secured reflector panel; refer to Figure 17 on page 28. 3.
Page 28 FIGURE 17. Assembling Reflector Panels. Boom Arm 1. Locate the Boom Arm; refer to Figure 18 on page 28. FIGURE 18. Boom Arm. 2. Insert the boom arm into the socket located at the bottom of the dish. A steel pin is provided to ensure alignment; refer to Figure 19 on page 29.
Page 29 FIGURE 19. Boom Arm Assembly. 3. Spin collar until secured. NOTE Be careful to not overtighten the collar as this could make it difficult to remove. Feed Assembly 1. Locate the Feed Assembly; refer to Figure 20 on page 29. FIGURE 20. Feed Assembly. 2. Insert the feed assembly into the boom arm socket. A steel pin is provided to ensure alignment; refer to Figure 21 on page 30.
Page 30 FIGURE 21. Feed Assembly Attachment. 3. Fasten the collar until secure. NOTE Be careful to not overtighten the collar as this could make it difficult to remove. Flexible Waveguide 1. Locate the flexible waveguide; refer to Figure 22 on page 30. FIGURE 22. Flexible Waveguide. 2. Insert one side of the flexible waveguide into the waveguide flange located in the feed assembly, and secure with the hand-tighten screws; refer to Figure 23 on page 31.
Page 31 FIGURE 23. Flexible Waveguide Attachment Location. 3. Turn the knobs clockwise to secure. 4. Insert the other end of the flexible waveguide into the OMT located in the feed assembly and secure with the hand-tighten screws. LNB Cable 1. The LNB cable will be attached to the LNB, and coiled with the feed assembly; refer to Figure 24 on page 31. FIGURE 24. LNB Cable. 2. Insert the cable to the connector on the Interface/Indicator unit.
Page 32 FIGURE 25. LNB Cable Connection on LNB. 3. Secure cable to the feed assembly with nylon clips. 4. Secure cable to the boom arm with nylon clips. Level Antenna Base 1. Using the knobs on each foot, adjust the height of the support legs until the bubble of the level indicator is centered in the target; refer to Figure 26 on page 32. 2.
Page 33 Opening the Baseband/IF Unit Case 1. Position the Baseband/IF unit case such that the arrow label on the unit points upward. 2. Unfasten the four latches that attach the case end caps: CAUTION i. Lift the winglever and turn it counter-clockwise. ii. After unlatched, fold in the winglever until it is once again flush with the latch mechanism.
Page 34 Interfacility Link The Baseband/IF unit and Antenna/RF unit are connected via a 10 meter multi-cable assembly called the interfacility link (IFL); a 30 meter cable is provided as an option. NOTE The calibration files may need to be changed in order to accommodate the 10 meter and 30 meter cables.
Page 35 FIGURE 29. IFL Cable and Power Cord. 3. Attach the strain relief cable to the hook on the Antenna/RF superstructure. 4. Attach the Red co-axial cable to the N-connector marked TX and colour coded red. 5. Attach the Blue co-axial cable to the N-connector marked TX MONITOR and colour coded blue. 6. Attach the Green co-axial cable to the N-connector marked RX and colour coded green. 7. Attach the multi-pin connector to the connector marked DC/CONTROL. 8.
Page 36 NOTE The Norsat NewsLink IFL is a calibrated cable assembly and must be used to interconnect the Antenna/RF and Baseband/IF units. Use of alternate cable assemblies will result in incorrect power settings. Connecting Peripherals to the Baseband/IF Unit Refer to “Baseband/IF Unit Interfaces” on page 14 for descriptions of the interfaces for connecting peripherals to the Baseband/IF unit. Powering Up the Baseband/IF Unit 1. Switch the power switch located at the rear of the chassis to ON. 2.
CHAPTER 7 Norsat NewsLink Configuration This chapter is designed to give step by step instructions for configuring the Norsat NewsLink, including antenna alignment, transmitter control, transmission profiles and satellite information, using the Norsat NewsLink GUI application.
Page 38 • • Transmit power quick keys: storing of assigned low and nominal power values for convenience and reduction in the chance of error when beginning transmission. The starting of a typical satellite transmission follows: Transmission of a low power carrier and adjustment of the operating parameters Raising of the power level to the assigned operating level; i.e. nominal power Modulation of the carrier LNB selection: selecting which LNB is attached to the antenna.
Page 39 Norsat NewsLink GUI The Norsat NewsLink GUI will automatically be launched when the laptop boots. To manually launch the Norsat NewsLink GUI: 1. From the Windows toolbar, select START TIONAL NORSAT NEWSLINK. PROGRAMS NORSAT INTERNA- 2. The NORSAT NEWSLINK panel is then launched; refer to Figure 32 on page 39. FIGURE 32. Norsat NewsLink NORSAT NEWSLINK Panel.
Page 40 System Settings This section describes the steps required for configuring transmission profiles and satellite information. 1. Click on the SYSTEM SETTINGS icon in the main screen of the Norsat NewsLink GUI. Satellite Information This section describes the steps required to add, edit and delete satellite information. 1. Click on the SATELLITE INFORMATION tab in the SYSTEM SETTINGS panel; refer to Figure 33 on page 40. FIGURE 33. SATELLITE INFORMATION Tab.
Page 41 FIGURE 34. SATELLITE INFORMATION Panel. 2. In the SATELLITE INFORMATION sub-panel: Select DISPLAY IN LIST OF AVAILABLE SATELLITES if the satellite is to be shown in the list. ii. Enter a DESCRIPTION for the satellite; maximum length of 20 characters. iii. Enter the ORBITAL POSITION of the satellite. iv. Enter the TX/RX TRANS in MHz. This indicates the amount your frequency is down-converted by the satellite. v. NOTES associated with the satellite may optionally be added. vi.
Page 42 4. In the DVB CARRIERS sub-panel, the horizontal and vertical frequencies are set on the same satellite that the video is to be played/recorded. These are used to set the DVB-S receiver. i. ii. To enter the horizontal carrier frequency of the satellite, select the HORIZONTAL CARRIER check box. Enter the frequency in the FREQUENCY (MHZ) field, and the symbol rate in the SYMBOL RATE (KS) field. To enter the vertical carrier frequency of the satellite, select the VERTICAL CARRIER check box.
Page 43 FIGURE 35. SYSTEM SETTINGS: TRANSMISSION PROFILES Tab Adding a Transmission Profile The following procedure details the steps required to add a new transmission profile, which includes creating a transport stream, video PID and two audio PIDs. 1. Click ADD in the TRANSPORT PROFILES tab. The TRANSPORT PROFILE panel is launched; refer to Figure 36 on page 44.
Page 44 FIGURE 36. TRANSMISSION PROFILE: TRANSPORT STREAM Setup Panel. Create the TRANSPORT STREAM 1. Enter a DESCRIPTION for the transport stream; maximum length of 50 characters. NOTE While duplicate profile descriptions are allowed, to allow for easier identification it is suggested that each profile is given a unique description. 2. Enter a value for the SYMBOL RATE between 2,000,000 and 8,000,000. 3. Select an FEC INNER CONV. CODE RATE from the drop-down box. NOTE The DATA RATE, i.e.
Page 45 FIGURE 37. TRANSMISSION PROFILE: VIDEO Setup Panel. Create the VIDEO PID 1. If a video PID is required, select VIDEO ENABLED. 2. Enter a PID number in the range of 34 to 8190 in the PID NUMBER field. NOTE The VIDEO PID number cannot be the same as the AUDIO PID numbers. 3. Enter a value in the BITRATE field in the range of 1.5 Mbps to 10 Mbps, or select AUTO to set to the highest allowable bitrate for the given SYMBOL RATE entered in the TRANSPORT STREAM tab. 4.
Page 46 9. Enter a value for the DTS OFFSET (MS). This field allows the user to improve the compatibility of the video and audio stream with the IRD. If NORMAL (HIGH QUALITY) is selected, the default value is 10. If LOW (REDUCED QUALITY) is selected, the default value is 15. 10. Next click on the AUDIO tab; refer to Figure 38 on page 46. FIGURE 38. TRANSMISSION PROFILE: AUDIO Setup Panel. Create the AUDIO PID To enable Audio PID 1, select AUDIO 1 ENABLED.
Page 47 4. Select a bitrate from the BITRATE (BPS) drop-down box. The bitrates available, for both DUAL MONO and STEREO, are: • 128,000 bps • 160,000 bps • 192,000 bps • 224,000 bps • 256,000 bps • 320,000 bps • 384,000 bps 5. From the SIGNAL SOURCE drop-down box, select either ANALOGUE, TEST TONE (an internally-generated tone used for testing) or SDI EMBEDDED (available only if selected SDI for Video). 6. Click OK.
Page 48 FIGURE 39. FREQUENCY PRESETS Panel. Adding a Preset Transmit Frequency The following procedure details the steps required to add a preset transmit frequency. 1. Click ADD in the FREQUENCY PRESETS tab. The FREQUENCY PRESET panel is launched; refer to Figure 40 on page 49.
Page 49 FIGURE 40. FREQUENCY PRESET Panel. 2. Enter a DESCRIPTION for the frequency preset; maximum length of 50 characters. NOTE While duplicate descriptions are allowed, to allow for easier identification it is suggested that each preset is given a unique description. 3. Enter a value in the FREQUENCY field in the range of 14000 MHz to 14500 MHz, in 125 KHz steps. 4. Click OK. Editing a Preset Transmit Frequency 1.
Page 50 Configure System Settings” on page 37 for a description of the transmit power quick keys. This section describes the steps required to set the quick key values for LOW POWER and NOMINAL POWER. 1. Click on the TRANSMIT POWER tab in the SYSTEM SETTINGS panel; refer to Figure 41 on page 50. FIGURE 41. TRANSMIT POWER Panel. 2. Enter a value in the LOW POWER field in the range of 20 dBm to 41.6 dBm. The corresponding value in WATTS will be displayed.
Page 51 FIGURE 42. RF UNIT Panel. 2. In the LNB sub-panel, select one of the following: i. A: 11.7-12.2 (LO 10.75) (GHz) ii. B: 12.25-12.75 (LO 11.30) (GHz) iii. C: 10.95-11.7 (LO 10.00) (GHz) Antenna Alignment This section describes the steps required to obtain antenna alignment parameters for elevation, azimuth and polarization, based on the satellite that is to be transmitted to.
Page 52 1. Ensure the GPS is connected to the GPS Receiver port on the front of the Baseband/IF chassis. 2. Place the GPS antenna in an area with a clear view of the sky. 3. From the NORSAT NEWSLINK GUI main panel, click on ANTENNA ALIGNMENT. The ANTENNA ALIGNMENT INFORMATION panel is then launched; refer to Figure 43 on page 52. FIGURE 43. ANTENNA ALIGNMENT INFORMATION Panel.
Page 53 7. Click NEXT. The ANTENNA ALIGNMENT panel will be displayed; refer to Figure 44 on page 53. FIGURE 44. ANTENNA ALIGNMENT Panel. 8. In the ANTENNA ALIGNMENT SETTINGS sub-panel: i. ii. Norsat NewsLink The following antenna alignment settings will be displayed: • AZIMUTH (degrees): set the compass to this value; refer to Figure 45 on page 54. The azimuth bearing is calculated from the satellite position and the terminal position.
Page 54 Setting the Antenna Azimuth 9. This is done by either moving the whole antenna, or by loosening the three azimuth plate hand wheels/levers and rotating the reflector relative to the legs. NOTE If the entire antenna is moved, ensure that the tripod is leveled. If required, place sand-bags or weights on the tripod feet to stabilize the antenna. 10. The azimuth should be adjusted until the compass bearing matches the AZIMUTH (degrees) calculated by the NewsLink GUI; refer to Figure 45 on page 54.
Page 55 FIGURE 46. Inclinometer. Setting the Antenna Polarization 13. Set the polarization to the value indicated in the POLARIZATION (degrees) field. 14. Unlock the Feed Rotation by loosening the thumb screw under the feed Assembly; refer to Figure 47 on page 55. 15. Align the dot on the feed bracket with the specified angle and then retighten the thumb screw. FIGURE 47. Polarization Scale on the Feed Rotation.
Page 56 reading of 90 for the signal strength meter is typical. The default value is the alignment carrier that is set up in your satellite profile. • FIGURE 48. CARRIER SIGNAL STRENGTH: indicates the signal strength for the carrier; value in the range 0 - 999. A digital display located on the junction box also displays the carrier signal strength; refer to Figure 48 on page 56. Signal Strength Indicator.
Page 57 FIGURE 49. Spectrum Analyzer. 18. In the RECEIVER SETUP panel, set the following fields: SPAN: the total length of the horizontal axis. This value can be between 1 and 500 MHz, in 0.1 MHz increments. ii. CENTER: the center frequency in GHz; the range for this value is dependant on the LNB selected. iii. DB/DIV: the number of dBm per division on the vertical axis. This value can be between 0.5 and 30 dB. iv. REFERENCE: maximum value of the horizontal axis. This value can be between -200 and 0 dB.
Page 58 20. In the RESOLUTION BANDWIDTH panel, the span of the filter is being set; i.e. the number of samples. Select: i. ii. 3.05 KHZ: for a detailed, but slower display. 97.65 KHZ: for a fast, but less detailed display. 21. The STATUS panel displays the frequency (GHz) and amplitude (dB) for the two markers on the graph, and for the difference between the two markers. The markers can be placed at a particular point on the graph by: i. ii. NOTE Using the left and right arrows for each marker.
Page 59 iii. LOCK STATUS: is green and indicates LOCKED if the signal is locked; yellow otherwise. iv. SEARCH ADJACENT SATELLITES: if selected, all of the entered satellite profiles will be searched, where the orbital position of the satellite is in the search range specified in the RANGE field. v. RANGE: indicates how many degrees around the current satellite location to search. vi. TIMEOUT: indicates the length of time to attempt to find a carrier on each adjacent satellite.
Page 60 FIGURE 50. TRANSMITTER CONTROL Panel. NOTE The operator phone number is indicated at the bottom of the screen. If required, call the operator before beginning transmission. NOTE The last selected settings for the TRANSMISSION PROFILE and FREQUENCY (MHZ) will be used as default settings upon exit of this screen. 2. In the TRANSMITTER SETTINGS sub-panel: i. NOTE To edit a profile, select the profile from the TRANSMISSION PROFILE drop-down box and click on EDIT. ii.
Page 61 iii. Select a preset transmit frequency value from the PRESETS drop-down box. NOTE To edit a preset, select the preset from the PRESETS drop-down box and click on EDIT. 3. To begin a transmission using the quick keys pre-set in the TRANSMIT POWER tab of the SYSTEM SETTINGS, in the QUICK KEYS sub-panel click: CW (24.0 DBM): to turn the transmitter on with MODULATION set to OFF, continuous wave (CW), at the low power setting, in this case 24.0 dBm. ii. CW (25.
Page 62 Keyboard Shortcuts The following list indicates the keyboard shortcuts for transmitter control: • F5: sets transmitter to OFF • F6: sets transmitter to CW () • F7: sets transmitter to CW () • F8: sets transmitter to QPSK () • PAGE UP: increases power by 0.5 dBm • PAGE DOWN: decreases power by 0.5 dBm • ALT-M: toggles modulation ON/OFF Spectrum Analyzer 8. To launch the Spectrum Analyzer, click on the SPECTRUM ANALYZER button.
Page 63 9. The spectrum will be displayed for the transmitted signal. To switch between the spectrum display for the received and transmitted signals, either: i. ii. Click on the desired tab (RECEIVER or TRANSMITTER). Click on the desired graph (RECEIVER or TRANSMITTER). 10. When TRANSMITTER is selected, in the QUICK KEYS panel, clicking TX CARRIER sets the bandwidth to two times the symbol rate, centered to transmission frequency set in the TRANSMITTER CONTROL panel.
Page 64 To return to the TRANSMITTER CONTROL panel, click on < CONTROL. To launch the Spectrum Analyzer, click on SPECTRUM ANALYZER. 2. In the VIDEO TUNER SETUP sub-panel, select: TX LOCAL LOOPBACK: pressing play, ,will display the encoded version of the stream being transmitted. The transmitter must be ON. ii. TX SATELLITE LOOPBACK: the antenna receives, and upon pressing play the TRANSMITTER STATUS will display, the signal that is being transmitted. The transmitter must be ON. iii.
Page 65 FIGURE 53. STATUS LOG Panel. 5. To view the alarm panel for the VIDEO ENCODER, click on DETAILS for the VIDEO ENCODER LED. The ALARM DETAILS panel is then launched; refer to Figure 54 on page 66. A full description of the alarms for the VIDEO ENCODER are given in “Video Lock” on page 81 and “Encoder Activity” on page 81. A history of the alarms for the VIDEO ENCODER are given in the HISTORY sub-panel.
Page 66 FIGURE 54. Video Encoder ALARM DETAILS Panel. 6. To view the alarm panel for the TRANSMITTER, click on DETAILS for the TRANSMITTER LED. The ALARM DETAILS panel is then launched; refer to Figure 55 on page 67. A full description of the alarms for the TRANSMITTER are given in “Transmitter and Upconverter Current” on page 82, “SSPA Current” on page 82, “SSPA Temperature” on page 83, “PLL Lock” on page 83 and “Tx Power” on page 84.
Page 67 FIGURE 55. Transmitter ALARM DETAILS Panel. 7. To view the alarm panel for the TRANSMIT LOOPBACK, click on DETAILS for the TRANSMIT LOOPBACK LED. The ALARM DETAILS panel is then launched; refer to Figure 56 on page 68. A full description of the alarms for the TRANSMIT LOOPBACK are given in “Tx Downconverter Current” on page 84, “Video Bitrate” on page 85, “Audio Bitrate” on page 85 and “Transmit Loopback Quality” on page 85.
Page 68 FIGURE 56. Transmit Loopback ALARM DETAILS Panel. 8. To view the alarm panel for the RECEIVER, click on DETAILS for the RECEIVER LED. The ALARM DETAILS panel is then launched; refer to Figure 57 on page 69. A full description of the alarms for the RECEIVER are given in “Downconverter & LNB Current Consumption” on page 86 and “Rx Signal Quality” on page 86. A history of the alarms for the RECEIVER are given in the HISTORY sub-panel.
Page 69 FIGURE 57. Norsat NewsLink Receiver ALARM DETAILS Panel.
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CHAPTER 8 Storing the Norsat NewsLink The following procedures describe the steps required to disassemble and store the Norsat NewsLink. CAUTION All connections/disconnections should be made while the power is off. Storing the Baseband/IF Unit The following steps describe the procedure for powering down and storing the Baseband/IF unit. Powering Down the Baseband/IF Unit 1. Shutting down Windows: i. From the Windows toolbar, select START ii. Select SHUT DOWN and click OK. SHUT DOWN. 2.
Page 72 Disconnecting the Antenna and Baseband Units CAUTION All connections/disconnections should be made while the power is off. The following steps describe the procedure for disconnecting the Antenna and Baseband units, and storing the interconnection cables. 1. Disconnect the IFL cable from the Antenna/RF and Baseband/IF units. 2. Disconnect the power cord from the Baseband/IF unit and power source. 3.
Page 73 2. Disconnect the LNB cable from the connector on the Interface/Indicator unit. 3. Release the nylon clips fastenings located on the Boom Arm and Feed Assembly. 4. Turn the knobs counter-clockwise to disconnect the waveguide from the OMT and waveguide flange. 5. Place the waveguide in the allocated slot in the Accessories case. 6. To disconnect the Feed Assembly from the Boom Arm, unfasten the collar by turning it counter-clockwise. 7. Remove the Feed Assembly from the Boom Arm. 8.
Page 74 FIGURE 60. Packing the Reflector Panels. 23. Place reflector panels into the Reflector Dish Pouch. 24. Place the Reflector Dish Pouch into the Accessories case; refer to Figure 61 on page 74. FIGURE 61. Norsat NewsLink Accessories Case (Model 3200-AC): Middle Layer.
Page 75 RF and Antenna Unit Case (Model 3200-RF) 25. Locate and open the RF and Antenna Unit case. 26. Invert the support base with legs attached into the RF and Antenna Unit case. FIGURE 62. RF and Antenna Unit Case (Model 3200-RF). Accessories Case (Model 3200-AC): Top Layer 27. Remove each support leg by turning the knob counter-clockwise. 28. Place the legs in the allocated spots in the Accessories case; refer to Figure 63 on page 75. 29.
Page 76 Antenna Cases 30. For each antenna case, close the case lid and secure the seven latches: Norsat NewsLink i. Lift the winglever and turn it clockwise. ii. Fold in the winglever until it is once again flush with the latch mechanism.
CHAPTER 9 Troubleshooting This chapter provides troubleshooting scenarios, along with suggested solutions. General Troubleshooting Tips 1. Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and correctly hooked up. 2. Check your external power source to ensure the source is stable. Transmission Problems 1.
Page 78 FIGURE 64. Transmission Indicator. 2. The transmitter turns OFF and reports the error COULD TRANSMITTER. This is likely due to over usage of the CPU. i. ii. NOT TURN ON THE Close all running applications aside from the Norsat NewsLink GUI. Turn the transmitter back ON. 3. The transmitter is ON and a sudden loss of reception of the signal occurs, however the Norsat NewsLink GUI still indicates the transmitter is ON. This may be caused by an alarm on the modulator. i. ii.
Page 79 2. The transmitter is ON and there is no video or the video is a pixelated screen when viewed from the NewsLink GUI. This is likely caused when there is no video input signal going into the encoder. i. Check the video input connections and the video source. Two-way Communication Problems 1. There is signal and data lock on the receivers at both locations, however a ping cannot be established across the link. Check for the following possible problems: i.
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Appendix A NewsLink GUI Status Indicators The following sections give the help files for each of the status indicators on the TRANSMITTER STATUS screen. Video Lock Indicates whether or not the encoder is locked onto the incoming signal. Range: • 0 to 1 The status bar will indicate: • 0 (RED): if the encoder is not locked onto the incoming signal • 1 (GREEN): if the encoder is locked onto the incoming signal Troubleshooting 1.
Page 82 The status bar will indicate: • 0 (RED): if the video encoder is not responding • 1 (GREEN): if the video encoder is actively responding to control commands Troubleshooting 1. If the indicator remains RED, shut down the baseband unit and remove all power sources for at least 30 seconds. 2. If the problem persists, contact Norsat Customer Support. Transmitter and Upconverter Current The transmitter, located at the base of the antenna, converts the L-band signal to a Ku-band signal.
Page 83 • 25W SSPA: 9000 - 12000 mA. Troubleshooting 1. Ensure that the transmitter is turned ON; refer to the TRANSMITTER CONTROL screen. 2. If the current is too low, ensure that one end of the multi-conductor IFL cable is plugged in to the multipin connector, labeled DC/CONTROL, at the back of the baseband unit, and the other end is plugged in to the multipin connector, labeled DC/CONTROL, on the dish elevation support panel. 3.
Page 84 • 1 (GREEN): if the oscillators are locked Troubleshooting 1. Shutdown the system and switch OFF power source(s) for 30 seconds. 2. If the problem persists, contact Norsat Customer Support. NOTE If any of the oscillators are out of lock, the transmission will automatically shut down. Tx Power This is the same TRANSMIT POWER indicator that is displayed on the TRANSMITTER CONTROL screen. The current detected transit power in Watts is displayed. If the requested transmit power is below +25 dBm (0.
Page 85 BLUE marked jack, labeled TX MONITOR, on the dish elevation support panel. 2. If the current is too high or too low, inspect the short jumper cable connected between the downconverter and the dish elevation support panel. 3. If this value is too high or too low, inspect the BLUE marked cable and connectors; replace if necessary. Video Bitrate This is the bitrate of the video signal as currently detected by the onboard DVB-S receiver through the transmit loopback downconverter.
Page 86 Troubleshooting 1. If the signal quality appears low, the problem may be either with the transmitted signal or with one of the transmit loopback components. This does not necessarily indicate a problem with the transmitted signal. 2. Inspect both the RED and the BLUE cables and replace if necessary. Downconverter & LNB Current Consumption The LNB, located at the end of the antenna boom arm, is the first electronic component in the receive signal path.
Page 87 Range: • 0 to 99 The status bar will indicate: • RED: if the receiver is not locked on to any carrier • YELLOW: if the receiver is locked on to a carrier, but the signal contains uncorrectable errors • GREEN: if the receiver is locked on to a carrier and any received errors have been corrected by Viterbi and Reed-Solomon decoding, resulting in a quasi-error-free (QEF) digital signal Troubleshooting 1. Ensure that the frequency and symbol rate of the received carrier is accurate. 2.
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Appendix B Compass Calibration To calibrate the compass, the antenna must be rotated slowly for one complete turn; two turns on initial calibration. The following steps describe the calibration procedure: 1. Set-up the Antenna/RF unit. 2. Connect the Antenna/RF unit to the Baseband/IF unit. 3. Power up the Baseband/IF unit. 4. Remove all three azimuth clamping handwheels/levers so that the top plate of the tripod rotates freely. 5.
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Index A Antenna Alignment Setting the Compass Value Setting the Feed Rotation Value (Polarization) Setting the Inclinometer Value Antenna/RF Unit Antenna Case Deploying Boom Arm Dish Elevation Rod Level Antenna Base LNB Cable Opening Reflector Support Legs Waveguide Peripherals Compass Inclinometer Level Transceiver 51 54 55 54 9, 71 11 9 21 28 24 32 31 22 27 24 30 11 11 12 12 11 Reception of DVB-S/MPEG-2 TS Spectrum Analyzer Storing Closing Case Powering Down Baseband/IF Unit Functionality Baseband/
Page 92 D L Definitions, Abbreviations and Acronyms Deploying Baseband/IF Unit Cable Connections Case Powering Up Deployment Antenna/RF Unit Boom Arm Dish Elevation Rod Level Antenna Base LNB Cable Opening Reflector Dish Support Legs Waveguide Disclaimer Disconnecting Antenna and Baseband Units Peripherals from the Baseband Unit ix 32 33 33 36 21 21 28 24 32 31 22 27 24 30 iii 72 71 Dish Elevation Rod Assembly Attaching 86 86 F Cases Antenna/RF Unit Baseband/IF Unit Features System Operation Ne
Page 93 P Deleting Editing Peripherals Compass Inclinometer Level Persistent Problems PLL Lock Status Indicator Troubleshooting 11 11 12 12 79 LNB Selection Satellite Information Adding Deleting Editing Transmission Profiles Adding 83 84 Audio PID Transport Stream Video PID Polarization Setting Copying Deleting Editing 55 Powering Down Baseband/IF Unit Protocols and Standards 71 xii Transmit Power Quick Keys 49 49 50 40 40 42 42 42 43 46 44 45 47 47 47 49 T R Receive IF Reflector Dish Ass
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NORSAT INTERNATIONAL, INC. Head Office 100-4401 Still Creek Drive Burnaby, BC V5C 6G9 Canada Telephone: 1-604-292-9130 Fax: 1-604-292-9100 Winnipeg 11-1329 Niakwa Road East Winnipeg, MB R2J 3T4 Canada Telephone: 1-204-255-9800 Fax: 1-204-255-9833 E-mail: info@norsat.com Singapore 126 Joo Seng Road #02-14, Gold Pine Industrial Building Singapore 368355 Telephone: 65-2896536 Fax: 65-2866562 E-mail: asiacons@singnet.com.
