Aqua User Manual Draft April 26, 2007
Aqua User Manual..................................................................... 1 1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 3 Welcome ......................................................................................................................... 3 Related Information ........................................................................................................ 3 Technical Assistance...........
1 Introduction Welcome This manual describes how to set up and use an Aqua radio modem. This publication assumes that you are know how to use the Microsoft® Windows® operating system. Related Information Sources of related information include the following: Readme.txt file – a Readme.txt file contains information added after the documentation was completed. To read this file, double-click it or use a text editor to open it. The installation program also copies it into the program directory.
The 450 MHz band radios are used to receive GNSS data in Compact Measurement Record (CMR) format from a reference receiver to one or more roving receivers for precise machine positioning. The 900 MHz band radios are used to receive GNSS data in Compact Measurement Record (CMR) format from a reference receiver to one or more roving receivers for precise machine positioning. These radios can also communicate 2-way data between an office computer and the machine.
Frequency Band Broadcast frequency, transmit power, channel spacing, and antenna gain are regulated by countries-of-use. These are unique on a per-country basis. When you order, you must specify the broadcast frequencies, channel spacing, and country-of-use for the radiomodem. For more information, contact your local dealer. Note – Specifications and descriptions are subject to change without notice.
Use of the AQUA outside the United States must be approved by the local radio authority. Contact your local radio communications governing authority for regulations and restrictions on operation in the country or area where you want to use the AQUA. 2400 MHz Description The Aqua 2400 MHz is a frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum radio unit and data modem packaged in a rugged, waterproof, metal case and is designed to withstand severe environmental stress.
WinFlash Configuration Software The Trimble WinFlash software is a Microsoft Windows-based application that configures the AQUA for use in a network. Use WinFlash to configure all AQUA radios required for a project. To configure a AQUA using WinFlash, complete the following procedures: • Connect the office computer to the AQUA. • Configure the AQUA using WinFlash. These procedures are discussed in the following sections. Connecting to the AQUA 1. Connect a radio service cable to the AQUA. 2.
450 MHz Radio Features • Note: No dealer version required as this is a receive only radio • Configure Radio Mode – fixed as rover (can’t be used as base/repeater) Channel Sharing Enable ID Call Sign Data port setting CMR output on Serial Port (data) Wireless settings • Upgrade Radio Firmware • Retrieve Radio Diagnostic Information • Load Frequency Update • Create Frequency update file Edit Frequency Up to 20 frequencies can be stored Save frequency update file 900 MHz Radio Features • Configure Radio Easy I
Diagnostics and Firmware Upgrade Use WinFlash to download a diagnostics file from the AQUA to an office computer or to upgrade the radio firmware. These options are available in the WinFlash Operation Selection window. For firmware upgrades, contact your Trimble dealer. The dealer will supply a new software file to perform the upgrade. Installing the AQUA Introduction It is recommended that you read this chapter before installing your Aqua radio.
Mounting the AQUA on a Machine When mounting the AQUA on a machine consider the following: • Reduce damage by minimizing shock and vibration to the AQUA: Mount the radiomodem on a solid part of the cab. Locate the best antenna position: Mount the entire antenna above the roofline so that it has an uninterrupted view. This improves the performance of the AQUA.
Cabling Configurations The AQUA is typically configured as a rover, but the cables and adapters necessary for other configurations are also available. Table 4.2 summarizes the cabling items available or provided with the AQUA unit or available accessories. Table 4.2 AQUA cabling and power accessories Item Part number Power and I/O cable for machine 32942-17 installations, 5 m (17 ft) 8-pin female Bendix connector on each end Infrastructure/Base Station power and I/O 38968-25 cable, 7.
Antenna Considerations Note – Please use care when removing the radio antenna. The AQUA antenna contact tip is designed for maximum efficiency and very low loss. To maintain its integrity, do not remove the top cap from the radio housing. Figure 4.12 Proper Antenna Mounting A Technical Specifications Technical Information Table A.1 shows the technical information for the AQUA radio-modem. This information is subject to change without notice. Table A.
Frequency range Networks Transmit power Wireless data rates Modes used to extend range. 902–928 MHz2 40 user selectable networks Meets FCC requirements of 1 W maximum power output 128 kbps Base/Repeater/Rover 900 MHz Range Optimal Typical Frequency range Networks Transmit power Wireless data rates Modes 10 km (6 miles), line-of-sight 3–5 km (2–3 miles) Varies with terrain and operating conditions. Repeaters may be used to extend range.
Note – This pinout is the same as that on the SiteNet 900 radio. The AQUA is a plug-in replacement for any application using the SiteNet 900 radio.
