SLM 1453I: Operation and Application Manual
SLM 1453I: Operation and Application Manual
SLM 1453I: Operation and Application Manual
Tel: 605.339.0100
Fax: 605.367.1006
www.sencore.com
EMAIL: [email protected]
Revision V1.1
July 2005
ii
WARNING
PLEASE OBSERVE THESE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Unexpected high voltages can be present at unusual locations in defective equipment and
signal distribution systems. Become familiar with the equipment with which you are
working and observe the following safety precautions.
Every precaution has been taken in the design of your SLM 1453I to insure that it
is as safe as possible. However, safe operation depends on you the operator.
Never exceed the limits of the SLM 1453I as given in the specifications section or
other special warnings provided in this manual.
Always be sure your equipment is in good working order. Ensure that all points of
connection are secure to the chassis and that protective covers are in place and
secured with fasteners.
Never work alone when working in hazardous conditions. Always have another
person close by in case of an accident.
Never assume that a cable shield is at earth ground potential. Both static and
electrical voltages can be present on a cables sheath. Do not connect the SLM
1453I to a cable having a hot shield. Doing so may place lethal voltages on the
SLM 1453I.
Always follow standard safety procedures, such as, using your safety belt when
working above the ground.
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iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS........................................ v
SLM 1453I DESCRIPTION ................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................................................ 1
Features ....................................................................................................... 2
Specifications SLM 1453I ....................................................................... 3
Supplied Accessories .................................................................................. 5
Options ........................................................................................................ 5
OPERATION........................................................... 9
Introduction ................................................................................................ 9
Getting Started ........................................................................................... 9
Recharging the Battery............................................................................ 10
Turning ON the SLM 1453I .................................................................... 10
Setup .......................................................................................................... 10
MAKING MEASUREMENTS............................. 11
The RF Input Connection........................................................................ 11
Selecting a Channel Plan ......................................................................... 12
Digital Channel Tagging.......................................................................... 13
Tuning the Channels ................................................................................ 14
Frequency Tuning .................................................................................... 14
Emulated BER .......................................................................................... 15
Digital Flatness ......................................................................................... 15
Digital Quality .......................................................................................... 16
Mux Analysis ............................................................................................ 16
v
Drop Losses............................................................................................... 20
Drop Signal Levels ................................................................................... 21
dBmV & dB V ......................................................................................... 22
Finishing the Job ...................................................................................... 23
Signal Leakage Measuring and Monitoring ....................................... 23
Common Leakage Measurements V/m ....................................................................................... 24
CLI (Cumulative Leakage Index) ..................................................................................................... 24
Monopole Antenna ............................................................................................................................. 25
Dipole Antenna ................................................................................................................................... 25
Using the Dipole Antenna .................................................................................................................. 25
Ingress Scanning....................................................................................... 27
To Make Ingress Measurements ....................................................................................................... 27
Appendix A ............................................................ 28
Channel Plans ........................................................................................... 28
Appendix B ............................................................ 33
What Is A dB? .......................................................................................... 33
Appendix C ............................................................ 35
Glossary..................................................................................................... 35
Appendix D ............................................................ 40
Dipole Antenna Lengths .......................................................................... 40
PARTS.................................................................... 43
vi
SLM 1453I DESCRIPTION
Introduction
Service and Installation Technicians are responsible for the last leg
of the CATV System, which connects the subscriber to the system. It is
obvious, that for the subscriber to receive the quality signals from your
system, that as much care and exacting quality must go into the drop as
goes into the rest of the system. The drop must conform to local codes
as well as meet the systems design standards. Today' s modern
broadband system requirements make it almost necessary to test every
installation to insure that the proper signal level requirements are
provided to the customer.
The basic tools required to perform a quality installation will include
a signal level meter. The technician who can verify an installation with
his signal level meter can be assured that he has completed a good
installation that will continue to provide the subscriber with the quality
pictures that subscribers expect today. Likewise, the service technician
must rely on his signal level meter to troubleshoot problems in the
distribution and drop system. The CATV system is very carefully
designed to provide specific signal levels at every point in the system,
from the Trunk or Node to the distribution amplifiers and the drop. The
Installer and Service technician must be able to insure these levels meet
the design criteria for trouble free and long-term subscriber service.
The SLM 1453I will allow you to test any RF connection in the
distribution system on any channel as simply as tuning any TV set.
The SLM 1453I tunes the entire CATV band of channels from
channel 2 through channel 137; a full 878 MHz of tuning capability so
that you can use the SLM 1453I on any system and measure the level
on any converter channel, Band Edge, Premium or Pay-Per-View
channel. Unlike many signal level meters, the SLM 1453I is hand-
held and a quality tool that will provide confidence to the user.
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Specifications SLM 1453I
Tuning Range
Channel Plans: FCC (std), HRC, IRC, VHF + UHF, Custom 1, 2, & 3
Channel Step size: 1 CH. (6 MHz)
Freq. Step size: 62.5 kHz
U.S Cable Band:
Channels: 2 thru 137 (Ch 1 in HRC & IRC)
Frequency: 50 thru 878 MHz
VHF + UHF Band:
Channels: 2 thru 69
Frequency: 50 thru 878 MHz
Sub-bands
Channels: T-7 thru T-13
Freq: 5-50 MHz
Resolution:
Channel Mode: 1 Channel
Frequency Mode: 1 kHz
RF Input
Sensitivity: 45 dBmV (analog & digital)
Resolution: dBmV mode: 0.1dBmV, dBV mode: 0.1dBV
V and V/m mode: 1V up to 1000V, 10V up to 10,000V
100V up to 100,000V, 1000V above 1V
Maximum Reading: +65 dBmV (analog & digital)
Input Impedance: 75 Ohms
Max. Safe Input: 100V AC/DC, +65 dBmV >1 KHz thru input connector
Measurement Functions
Digital Carrier Functions: Digital Power, BER, Quality, Flatness, C/N
Video Carrier Level Resolution: 1.0 dBmV typical (1.8 dBmV max.)
Format: QAM 64, QAM 256, 8-VSB
Amplitude Accuracy
CATV, UHF, VHF: 1.0 dBmV typical (1.8 dBmV max.)
Audio Carrier Level Accuracy
CATV, UHF, VHF: 1.0 dBmV typical (1.8 dBmV max.)
C/N Ratio
Accuracy: +/ 1.5 dB typical (2.5 dBmV max.)
Input Range: 0 dBmV to measure 50 dB C/N
A/V Ratio
Accuracy: +/ 1.5 dB
Environmental
Operating Temperature: 0F to +120F
Storage Temperature: 40F to +150F
Humidity: 0 to 90% (non-condensing)
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Supplied Accessories
1. AC Charger 120 volt AC charger. Plugs into the SLM 1453I to charge the
battery or provide AC operation.
2. Protective Carrying Case Protective carrying case designed to prevent unit
damage while used in the field.
3. Rubber Duck Antenna - Connects to the 75-Ohm input of the SLM 1453I to
perform premises leakage testing.
4. Serial Data Cable Used to connect the SLM 1453I to the serial printer or PC.
Options
NOT Supplied with Unit, but available at extra cost
1. Test Cable 75-Ohm F-to-F male Test cable. Quality Test Cable with one
"Fast F" male cable connector.
3. DC Vehicle Charger 12 Volt DC adapter. Plugs into the SLM 1453I to charge
the battery or provide DC operation.
4. Dipole Antenna Adjustable Dipole CLI Antenna. Used to perform Cumulative
Leakage Measurements for FCC documentation.
5. Serial Printer Portable Serial Printer. Use to print stored data from the
SLM 1453I.
19
21
9
2
10
3 11
4 12
5 13
6 14
7 15
16
8
1 17
20 18
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Controls
1. ON/OFF Turns power On or Off. After startup, meter will go back to the last
function that was used before the meter was turned off. All settings are stored when
the meter is turned off.
2. CUSTOM* Switches from a US Cable plan to one of the Custom channel plans.
(i.e. Custom 1, Custom 2, or Custom 3) Holding the button down for
approximately 3 seconds will set meter into Custom channel planning mode.
3. UP and DOWN ARROW Increments tuning up or down by one channel from the
tuned channel in one of the stored channel plans. Also used in the Setup mode to
scroll the menu items.
4. CH/FR Switches the meter between Channel tuning and Frequency tuning mode.
5. MASTER* Switches unit to Master channel plan. The Master plan can be set to a US
Cable plan: FCC, HRC, IRC, or US Broadcast. Holding the MASTER key down for
approx. 3 seconds will allow you to switch between these different master channel plans.
6. LIVE PRINT Downloads screen data to Printer or PC through the RS-232 port.
7. DATA LOGGER Sets the meter into automatic data storage operation.
8. FM RADIO Sets the meter into FM tuning operation. Audio can be heard
through the unit'
s built-in speaker.
9. F1 F2 F3 Allows the user to move through the meters various menu selections.
10. MEAS* Measurement mode for analog and digital signals. If button is held down, it
will change from Near or Far for its noise sampling mode in the digital
measurement mode. The Near should be used if a single digital pilot is being tested.
If there are multiple digital pilots, Far should be used.
11. TILT Sets the meter to measure the tilt or slope between your selected Low and
High pilot channels or frequencies.
12. MUX ANALYSIS Sets the meter in operation to do Mux Analysis of 8-VSB signals.
13. VOLUME Allows you to select one of the five preset speaker levels in the meter.
14. LEAKAGE* Sets meter into signal leakage operation and automatically calculates
leakage level using the V/m mode. Depressing the button and holding for approximately
3 seconds will allow the Leakage Threshold and Antenna Characteristics to be set.
15. INGRESS/VOLTMETER Sets the SLM 1453I into Ingress sweep mode.
Holding the button down for approx. 3 seconds, sets the SLM 1453 to AC/DC
Voltmeter operation thru RF input.
16. BUZZ Audio tone that is designed to indicate different signal levels received by
the meter through the RF input.
17. TV SOUND Allows the channel audio to be audible through the built-in speaker.
18. AUTO OFF* Allows the user to turn off (or on) the Auto-Off feature of the meter.
When the button is held down for approx. 3 seconds, the Unit of Measurement is
changed. (dBmV or dBV)
Buttons with an * have dual function. Hold button down for approx 3 seconds for
2nd function.
Output
21. RS-232 Connector RS-232 Output to Serial Printer or Serial Interface to PC.
Operation Example
1. Press ON (Turn ON the SLM 1453I).
2. Press MEAS.
3. Tune meter to Channel 2. (Use SELECT Up Arrow and Down Arrow).
4. Meter reads Signal Level, A/V, and C/N automatically.
5. Press OFF (Turn OFF the SLM 1453I).
3
1
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OPERATION
Introduction
This section of the manual demonstrates all of the user features and capabilities
of the SLM 1453I. Most operations are self evident from the front panel
nomenclature; however a few Setup functions are less obvious since they are
seldom used. All keys with the * symbol have a Second Function to their
operation and are effective by holding down for approximately 3 seconds.
Getting Started
Upon receipt, your SLM 1453I will need to be charged overnight before the unit
will be ready for a full day'
s operation. In the meantime, you may operate the
SLM 1453I from the charger in order to get more familiar with its operation and
keypad controls.
The SLM 1453I has three indicators to explain the condition of the internal
battery. The first indicator will show that the battery is in charge mode and a green
light will appear on the front panel.
The second indicator will appear when the unit reaches a full charge. Another
green light will appear in the "full" display of battery at the bottom of the unit.
The last indicator shows when there is a problem with either the charging of the
unit or the internal battery has a problem.
Once the SLM 1453I is switched on, the unit will remain on for approximately
10 minutes before it automatically shuts off, if no other keys are pressed. The
10-minute time-out will be reset each time a key is pressed. Any time the
SLM 1453I is left on, without any keys being pressed, the unit will turn itself off
after 10 minutes to conserve the battery. The operator can defeat the Auto-shut-off
feature. The unit may be turned off when you have finished your usage by pressing
the OFF key.
Setup
Measurement Units
The SLM 1453I allows the user to switch the measurement units that you are
using. Different types of applications require the use of a variety of measurements.
For example, antenna signal measurements are typically done in dBV; this is also
the standard of measurement used in Europe. In the U.S, standard CATV
measurements are done in dBmV. The SLM 1453I allows you to change your unit
of measurement by using the following method.
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1. Press the SLM 1453I ON key.
2. Press and hold the AUTO OFF key until display indicates
3. Press the F1 key when the level-measurement unit is set to dBmV (or dBV).
MAKING MEASUREMENTS
To make measurements of the TV channels on your system you will have to
properly connect to the system, select a channel plan, either one of the Master
plans, or one of the three Custom channel plans, tune to the desired channel,
choose measurement mode and read the displayed level.
In order to access of one of the standard master channel plans, simply hold down
the MASTER key for approximately 3 seconds or until the display changes.
The display will indicate:
Using the Up Arrow or Down Arrow, scroll until the desired Master channel
plan is indicated. To select that channel plan press F1. Begin making RF
measurements by pressing the MEAS key.
3. Using the Up Arrow or Down Arrow, scroll to the desired plan to copy
in order to start developing your Custom channel plan.
4. Press the F2 key for to customize this channel plan.
The display will now show:
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5. Use the F3 key to select the Channel Measurement Mode.
Choices are Analog, Disable the Channel, QAM64, QAM256, or 8-VSB.
6. Then use the Up Arrow to move to the next channel. (Down Arrow to go back.)
7. When Custom Channel Plan is completed, press the F2 key to
this Custom plan.
The display now shows:
8. Use the Up Arrow and Down Arrow key to select which Custom
(Custom 1, 2, 3) plan to save as.
9. Press F2 to this Custom plan.
Once you have built a Custom channel plan, it is not necessary to repeat these
steps unless you wish to change a Custom channel plan. The Custom channel
plans are stored in non-volatile memory.
Frequency Tuning
The SLM 1453I can also be tuned in the frequency mode. Press the CH/FR. Key. In the
frequency mode the display changes from reading the channel number, to reading
frequency only. After pressing the CH/FR. key, the frequency for the current channel is
displayed. The SLM 1453I tunes in the frequency mode by 62.5 kHz steps.
! "" "
"" ""
Figure 5 Tuning a Frequency
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If the CH/FR key is pressed in the frequency mode; the SLM 1453I will tune to
the nearest channel and display that channel'
s assigned number.
Emulated BER
The emulated BER test on the SLM 1453I is based on a C/N measurement. The
value is based on an algorithmic calculation. This calculation makes a distinction
between adjacent and non-adjacent channels. This measurement is very accurate
and reliable but can be degraded if there is interference hidden in the digital
multiplex or devices with bad phase noise in the system. This measurement is
automatically given by the SLM 1453I when a channel is tagged as digital.
Digital Flatness
The SLM 1453I is designed to give you an indication of digital flatness. If the
power distribution in the channel (flatness) is not uniformly scattered, the
multiplex analysis will indicate that the signal is degraded. This measurement is
also given automatically on a digitally tagged channel.
Mux Analysis
The MUX ANALYSIS is a power measurement analysis for digital channels (multiple
program multiplex). The test takes samples across the 6 MHz channel checking for not
only average flatness, but for distribution (no observed holes in the distribution, as well
as randomness. If the sampled frequencies show even average power, it is reported as
Digital indicating both evenly distributed frequency components and flat channel
response. Less than ideal is reported as Degraded, or Nodigit. If the channel power is
so low that average power samples cannot reliably be made above channel noise,
PwrTooLow is reported.
When MUX ANALYSIS is pressed and a digital channel is selected with the
Up/Down Arrow from the Home Display, the display will indicate on the top row
Channel Number, or Channel Center Frequency. The top row of the display is the Mode
(Q 64, Q256, 8VSB), and the RF Level/Power. The second row indicates Channel Plan
Number (1, 2, 3) and the test indicator MuxAn. followed by the results. The results
will read either, Digital, Degraded, Nodigit, or PwrTooLow.
Digital indicates that the power distribution across the digital channel bandwidth is
evenly distributed, and reasonable flat.
Degraded indicates a problem with the distribution or flatness of the measured power
samples across the channel.
Nodigit indicates that the distribution is so uneven that the channel is considered not
to be a digital channel. It may in fact be an analog channel, even though it is tagged
as digital.
PwrTooLow indicates that the power level was too low to reliably sample.
If a digital channel is not properly tagged as digital (Mode reads ANA for the channel
selected instead of Q 64, Q256, or 8VSB) Mux Analysis will report Degraded or lower
(Nodigit or possibly PwrTooLow).
Note: Digital Quality (D.QUAL) is reported as Pass, Marginal, or Fail when using the
Measurement (MEAS) key IF the channel is tagged as digital (QAM 64, Q256, or 8VSB)
in one of the three Custom Channel Plans. Master Plans (Broadcast, FCC, IRC, HRC)
cannot have channels tagged as digital. Master Plans can be used for starter plans to
build a custom plan, but cannot be directly digitally tagged.
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APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Introduction
The application section is intended to give you a "hands on" introduction to using
the SLM 1453I. Procedures described here are general in terms and will require
adaptation to your specific circumstance. You should also refer to your company
procedures. A listing of the FCC minimum requirements and recommended targets
for the Subscriber Drop are listed in the table below.
Maximum A / V ratio 17 dB 15 dB
Tap Isolation 18 dB 20 dB
The Installation
The first step to a good installation is to be sure that you are starting with a
known good signal level. When you climb the pole or open the pedestal to begin
the installation take your SLM 1453I with you so that you can first measure the
signal level at the TAP. While you probably do not have a system schematic with
TAP output levels indicated, you really do not need one. With a little rough math
and simple assumptions you can estimate the signal levels that you will need at the
TAP to insure a good installation.
Cable Loss
Before you start the installation, the loss of the cable to be used for the drop
should be estimated. Remember that the cable loss is dependent on the frequency
of the signals it transports. Since the greatest loss occurs at the highest frequency
used, we normally talk about a cables loss only at that frequency. For instance,
6dB of cable means the loss at our highest channel is 6dB. Each manufacturer of
drop cable specifies the loss of a particular type of cable at some frequency per
100 feet of that cable.
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From the manufacturer' s specification we can determine the specific loss for our
application by the formula:
Thus, if we were working on a system specified to 800 MHz and using a cable
rated at 6dB loss per 100 feet at 550 MHz it would have a loss of:
Estimate the distance from the TAP to the TV set. The loss will be the distance
times the loss per 100 feet divided by 100.
L = D * L1 / 100
L = 10.8 dB
You will only have to make the L1 loss calculation once to determine the loss of
your drop cable per 100 feet. You will continue to use that value for L1 unless you
change drop cable or extend the bandwidth of your system. Do your calculations
on the ground before you climb? Some typical cable losses are listed in the Table:
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Drop Signal Levels
If you have a sufficient level at the output of your TAP you are ready to continue
your installation. If you do not have sufficient level you can change the TAP to the
appropriate value (you may need to get approval from your supervisor or an
engineer). Taps are available in most common values. If your level is 3 dB low at
the current tap, you need a tap value, which is 3 dB smaller. It is usually best to
select the next lower value tap when the exact value falls between those available.
Once the drop is installed you should check the levels at the back of the set or the
input to the converter. At this test point you should expect a minimum level of
0 dBmV, which we used in our calculation, plus the safety margin and any TAP
value variation required from rounding off to the nearest available TAP value.
Remember that we must provide the subscriber with a signal between 0 dBmV and
+10 dBmV. If the level looks good on our highest channel we should then check
the low end of the spectrum and any key channels in between. Remember that our
levels will vary with the frequency as the loss increases with the frequency. If you
measure all the channels you will see the tilt of the system established at the last
Line Extender minus the cable loss from the AMP through the cable to the TAP and
through the drop to the Wall Plate. Note that the amount of tilt will change from
drop to drop as the distance from the last AMP or Line Extender varies. The FCC
requires a minimum of 0 dBmV and a maximum of +10 dBmV, this provides
sufficient signal level above the noise floor for a "snow free" picture and prevents
"overload" of the TV set and or converter, which would cause 2nd/3rd order or
inter-modulation distortions.
If your levels are significantly different than those predicted, there is a fault in
the Installation. To locate this fault we will use the SLM 1453I to troubleshoot our
installation, starting back through the drop. DIVIDE and CONQUER. Move back
to the ground block output to check levels. If they are good the problem is between
the ground block and the wall plate. If not, move to the cable at the input of the
ground block. Keep dividing the problem area into half until you get down to the
one faulty component. Don' t forget our assumptions and estimate of loss as you go
through the drop components so that you can predict a good signal level reading.
If you are using a splitter to provide multiple outlets, be sure that a terminator, TV,
or converter terminates each leg. An open leg on a splitter will cause standing
waves and erroneous readings on the other leg.
V
dBmV & dB
The common unit of measure in the US and many other countries is the dBmV or
decibels above 1 mV across 75. 0 dBmV equals a signal level of 1 mV across a
75 load. The dBV (dB micro volt) is a similar unit of measure, except that it is
referenced for 1 V across a 75 load. Thus, 0 dBmV = +60 dBV. The
SLM 1453I may be set up to use either unit of measure. See the SETUP section of
this manual for SETUP procedures. See Appendix B for more information on
measuring in dBmV and discussion on relative measurements in dB.
In the U.S. we measure the video carrier level in dBmV. Decibels above 1 mV
across 75 ohms. In many PAL systems the preferred unit of measure is dBV.
Decibels above 1 V across 75 ohms. It is quite easy to convert a dBmV reading to
a dBV by adding 60 dBV to the reading in dBmV.
For example +10 dBmV becomes +70 dBV and 20 dBmV becomes +40 dBV.
dBV is used in a few systems outside the U.S. Systems in the UK and Asia are
the main exceptions. Naturally a dB is a dB the world over, 3 dB above 1 mV is
Page 22 1-800-SENCORE
+3 dBmV and 3 dB above 60 dBV is 63 dBV. Our standard formula:
dB = 20 Log (V1/V2), remains true in all systems, only the unit of measure
changes.
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2 2 2 2
CLI = [10 log (E1 + E2 + E3 + .... + En ) ] x 100 / M
Where: E1 to En, in V/m, is all of the recorded leaks > 50 V/m and
M is the % of the system monitored for leakage.
The CLI calculation must be less than or equal to 64 to meet the FCC
requirements. Note that only leaks greater than or equal to 50 V/m must be used
in the calculation. Other leaks greater than 20 V/m must be repaired, but not
included in the calculation. Typically, systems will use one instrument to monitor
system leakage and another to make leakage measurements. Measurements must
be made using a calibrated dipole antenna. Since the SLM 1453I is capable of
measuring directly in V/m, it is a convenient tool to use in leakage measurement,
since no calculations are required to convert dBmV to dBV then V at a specific
frequency to V/m. These capabilities make the SLM 1453I an ideal meter for the
installer or the service tech.
Monopole Antenna
The monopole or rubber duck antenna that is supplied with the SLM 1453I is
designed to give the operator an indication of signal leakage based on the threshold
that is entered into the SLM 1453I. Its receiving pattern is omni-directional, and it
can detect leakage on all sides with exception to the top and bottom. Typical CATV
RF leakage appears in a spherical pattern, therefore the monopole is best used to
find the general location of the leak. Once the general location is determined, the
operator should switch to a dipole antenna to locate and measure the leak.
Dipole Antenna
The Dipole antenna is often the most confusing part of any leakage measuring
system. This confusion probably stems from the fact that the dipole has "no input,"
no electronics or power supplybut pulls signals "right out of the air." This is not
magic; it is in fact quite predicable and quantifiable. We will not go into complex
antenna theory here, but ask you to have faith. Simply stated the electromagnetic
waves traveling through the air set up a field, which excites the electrons in the
dipole antenna when the wavelength of the dipole (or multiple, i.e. 1/4 or 1/2)
matches the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves. The electron motion in the
antenna produces a potential across its output terminals, which we can measure
with the SLM 1453I. Quantifying these antenna characteristics is quite simple.
L = 2808 / F
Where L = the length of one side (one element) in inches and
F = the frequency in MHz..
Once tuned, the dipole is ready to use to make measurements. For your
convenience refer to Appendix D for the standard element lengths.
To make leakage measurements, the dipole must be held 10 feet above and
parallel to the ground, 10 feet from the leakage source and at least 10 feet away
from any other conductors. This can be somewhat challenging at times. The FCC
statement that the dipole should be 10 feet above the ground is a secondary
considerationconsider this a minimum. Ten feet from the leakage source is the
primary consideration. In addition the dipole must be rotated to obtain the
maximum signal level reading. Note that to insure the proper distance, you must
absolutely locate the source of leakage.
EV/m(D1) = EV/m(D2) x D2 / D1
For reference purposes the following formulae may be used to convert from V
to dBmV and vice versa.
EV = 10 (VdBmV/20) x 1000
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Remember that EV should not be confused with EV/m. Leakage
measurements used in calculating CLI must be in EV/m, that is, microvolts per
meter, where meters represent the wavelength of the signal being measured. The
EV/m can be determined from the EV by using the following formula:
EV/m = EV x F x 0.021
Where: EV is the level in microvolts and
F is the frequency of the signal in MHz.
Again you can see the advantage of the SLM 1453I measuring directly in V/m.
Ingress Scanning
Ingress is unwanted noise or interference getting into the cable system. Ingress has
always been a factor in a closed system and will result in some picture distortion in
an analog system. In todays fully loaded, forward and reverse digital systems,
ingress can cause serious operating problems, especially if the noise or ingress is
present in the return portion of the band. Ingress or noise is perceived as signal to a
digital set-top or cable modem. If ingress or noise is delivered to the cable modem
or the CMTS, communication between the two devices can be disrupted, causing
problems for the customer. Most cable systems use the reverse or sub-band
frequencies for communication with their devices in the field.
The SLM 1453I is capable of scanning any tuned frequency between 5-47 MHz.
You are also able to set the threshold from -50 to +20 dBmV (specified to -45
dBmV).
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Channel Plans
Mid-band Cable Channels and UHF Broadcast Channels, 120 to 170 MHz
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Channel # Digital FCC FCC HRC IRC VHF /UHF
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Appendix B
What Is A dB?
Many technicians who use Signal Level Meters aren' t sure what a dB really is
and how it relates to signal strengths. In short, a decibel is a simple way of
expressing the ratio of output power to input power as a simple number. Decibels
(dBs) were developed to simplify figuring gains and losses of a system. Once the
gain of a stage is converted to dB, only simple addition and subtraction is
necessary to find the total gain of a system, or portion of the system.
In order to find the total gain of a distribution system without using dBs, it is
necessary to multiply the gain of each amplifier stage and then divide the total gain
by the total losses.
As a short example, let'
s assume that we have the portion of the system drawn
below:
In our example the cable looses 1/2 of its applied voltage every 100 ft. (6 dB).
The TAPs all have an insertion loss of 10% (1 dB). When 1 V is applied to the
input you can calculate the voltage at each component as noted in the figure.
After 200 ft. the voltage will be 1V x 1/2 x 1/2 = 1/4 V = 250 mV
At the TAP output a 10% loss is equal to a 90% efficiency, thus the output will be
250 mV x 90% = 250 mV x 0.90 = 225 mV.
Continuing the calculations will show the output voltage will be 1.01 V.
Voltage Calculation:
E = 1V x 1/ 4 x 0.9 x 1/ 2 x 0.9 x 1/ 2 x 100 1/ 4 x 0.9 x 0.9 = 1V
You can go through the system multiplying the gains and dividing the losses or
using the Decibel (dB) system simply add and subtract the dBs for each component
to determine the signal level at any point in the system. A loss of 1/2 the voltage is
6 dB and a 10% loss of voltage is 1 dB (check these with the formulas which
follow). Thus we simply add the gains and subtract the losses from our 1 V
equivalent of +60 dBmV. The total losses are 40 dB with a gain of 40 dB. Thus,
our output will be the same as our input level: 60 dBmV or 1 V.
dB Calculation: E = +60dBmV 12 1 6 1 6 + 40 12 1 1 = +60dBmV
Page 34 1-800-SENCORE
Appendix C
Glossary
Adjacent Channels Two television channels having video carriers 6 MHz apart, or two
FM channels having carriers occupying neighboring channel allocations.
AGC (Automatic Gain Control) A circuit, which monitors the high pilot and
automatically controls amplifier gain and keeps the output level constant with changing
input levels. Main control over the High frequencies.
ASC (Automatic Slope Control) A circuit, which monitors the low pilot and
automatically controls the amplifier slope and keeps the output level constant with
changing input levels. Main control over the low frequencies.
Amplifier A device used to increase the power and voltage level of a signal.
Band Separator A device used to split 2 or more frequency bands into separate leads.
Bridger An amplifier, which is connected directly to the main trunk amplifier and
"splits off" the signal for a distribution system.
Channel In television, a portion of the RF spectrum 6 MHz wide that carries the audio
and video carriers of the television signal.
Chrominance Signal The portion of the NTSC color television composite video signal
containing the color information.
Closed Circuit A system in which television signals are transmitted over cable or
telephone lines without being broadcast through the air.
Composite Video Signal The complete video signal including the picture (luminance)
signal, the blanking and sync pulses, and the color (chrominance).
Contrast The range of dark and light values in a picture, or the ratio between minimum
and maximum brightness.
dBmV An absolute signal level where 0 dBmV is equal to 1000 uV across 75 ohms.
Diplex Filter A filter used to separate the low and high frequency bands on a cable into
two separate signal paths.
Directional Coupler A device used in RF distribution systems that has one input and
provides two or more isolated outputs. One of the outputs often provides a lower output
than the other.
Distortion Any difference between the wave shape of the original signal and the wave
shape after the signal has passed through the distribution system.
Drop The coaxial cable running between a distribution tap and a subscriber' s television
receiver; including drop cable, ground block, splitters, traps and wall plates. Sometime to
include the terminal device (converter).
Egress A condition often called "signal leakage" in which signals carried by the
distribution system radiate into the air.
Feeder Line The coaxial cable in a distribution system, which runs between Bridgers,
line extenders and taps.
Page 36 1-800-SENCORE
Ground Block Connector, which passes the RF signal through with minimum loss
while providing a means of attaching a ground wire to the drop cable; typically near the
entry to the home. Grounding is accomplished by either a special ground rod or
connection to the Water system (see local code for required grounding methods).
Guard Band A portion of the frequency spectrum, often just below and above a
channel, which is kept free of signals to prevent interferences.
Head End The equipment located at the start of a CATV system. The place where the
signals are processed and combined prior to distribution.
Hum Modulation A condition where one or more horizontal bars roll upward through
the television picture causing a noticeable change in brightness or contrast.
Impedance The opposition to the transfer of energy. The impedance of coaxial cable is
dependent on physical structure.
Insertion Loss Also called "feed thru loss". This is the loss that occurs as signals pass
through a passive device. Insertion loss occurs in all devices, which do not amplify the
signal.
Line Extender - A type of amplifier used in the feeder system of a distribution system to
raise signal levels and create positive tilt prior to TAPs.
Trunk The major link of a distribution system between the head end and a major
subscriber area.
Messenger Strand A heavy wire or cable that supports the signal-carrying coaxial
cable.
Match The condition, which exists when the maximum power is transferred from one
device to another. Maximum power is transferred when the characteristic impedance of
both devices are the same.
Mismatch The condition where maximum power is not transferred from one device to
another. The power, which is not transferred, is reflected.
Mixer A device, which will "mix" the input signals together, producing the two original
signals and their sum and difference frequencies.
Noise Any unwanted signal, which affects a wide or narrow band of frequencies.
Passive A circuit or device, which does not produce gain or use tubes, transistors, or
integrated circuits. (i.e. TAPs and Splitters)
Preamplifier An amplifier, which is often mounted on the antenna mast and is used to
amplify very weak signals received by an antenna. The system noise figure is established
by the preamp.
Processor A device used in the Headend which receives a channel, reduces it to an IF,
and either reproduces the signal on the same channel or converts it to another channel.
Radiation RF energy, which is emitted, or leaks from a distribution system and travels
through space. These signals often cause interference with other communication
services.
Receiver The part of a communications system, which converts electrical waves into
visible or audible form.
Return Path The signal path in a distribution system, which is used to get information
back to the head end, usually on the sub-band frequencies of 5 to 50 MHz.
Page 38 1-800-SENCORE
Signal-To-Noise Ratio (S/N) The ratio of desired signal level to the undesired noise
level, expressed in dB.
Signal Strength The intensity of an RF signal measured in volts (V), millivolts (mV),
microvolts (V), or dBmV.
Snow A large quantity of random noise in a television picture, which results from a
poor C/N (carrier to noise) ratio.
Tap A device inserted into a feeder line, which allows a specific amount of signal to be
removed from the feeder line and isolates the TAP port from the main through line.
Tilt A linearized change in the frequency response of the CATV system caused
primarily by the frequency dependent cable loss. Tilt is quantified by comparing the
difference between the level of the highest channel'
s video carrier and that of the lowest
channel.
Trap A circuit often called a filter, which is used to attenuate undesired signals while
not affecting desired signals. Typically a single channel trap to remove a single premium
service, which the subscriber is not signed up for.
Trunk The main signal path through the CATV system, which transports signals from
the headend out to the neighborhood. Built to handle maximum channel capacity,
maximize distance capability, minimize noise and distortion and preserve the quality of
the headend signals. Drops are NEVER connected directly to the Trunk.
Two-Way System A distribution system that delivers signals to the subscriber (down
stream) and back to the head end (upstream).
Visual Carrier The portion of a television signal, which carries the video portion of the
picture.
Element Element
Channel Frequency Length Channel Frequency Length
(Inches) (Inches)
2 55.25 50.8 26 247.25 11.4
3 61.25 45.8 27 253.25 11.1
4 67.25 41.8 28 259.25 10.8
5 77.25 36.3 29 265.25 10.6
6 83.25 33.7 30 271.25 10.4
31 277.25 10.1
95 91.25 30.8 32 283.25 9.9
96 97.25 28.9 33 289.25 9.7
97 103.25 27.2 34 295.25 9.5
98 109.25 25.7 35 301.25 9.3
99 115.25 24.4 36 307.25 9.1
37 313.25 9.0
14 121.25 23.2 38 319.25 8.8
15 127.25 22.1 39 325.25 8.6
16 133.25 21.1 40 331.25 8.5
17 139.25 20.2 41 337.25 8.3
18 145.25 19.3 42 343.25 8.2
19 151.25 18.6 43 349.25 8.0
20 157.25 17.9 44 355.25 7.9
21 163.25 17.2 45 361.25 7.8
22 169.25 16.6 46 367.25 7.6
47 373.25 7.5
7 175.25 16.0 48 379.25 7.4
8 181.25 15.5 49 385.25 7.3
9 187.25 15.0 50 391.25 7.2
10 193.25 14.5 51 397.25 7.1
11 199.25 14.1 52 403.25 7.0
12 205.25 13.7 53 409.25 6.9
13 211.25 13.3 54 415.25 6.8
14 217.25 12.9 55 421.25 9.7
15 223.25 12.6 56 427.25 6.6
57 433.25 6.5
23 229.25 12.2 58 439.25 6.4
24 235.25 11.9 59 445.25 6.3
25 241.25 11.6 60 451.25 6.2
Page 40 1-800-SENCORE
Element Element
Channel Frequency Length Channel Frequency Length
(Inches) (Inches)
61 457.25 6.1 78 559.25 5.0
62 463.25 6.1 79 565.25 5.0
63 469.25 6.0 80 571.25 4.9
64 475.25 5.9 81 577.25 4.9
65 481.25 5.8 82 583.25 4.8
66 487.25 5.8 83 589.25 4.8
67 493.25 5.7 84 595.25 4.7
68 499.25 5.6 85 601.25 4.7
69 505.25 5.6 86 607.25 4.6
70 511.25 5.5 87 613.25 4.6
71 517.25 5.4 88 619.25 4.5
72 523.25 5.4 89 625.25 4.5
73 529.25 5.3 90 631.25 4.4
74 535.25 5.2 91 637.25 4.4
75 541.25 5.2 92 643.25 4.4
76 547.25 5.1 93 649.25 4.3
77 553.25 5.1 94 655.25 4.3
Service
The Sencore Factory Service Department provides all "in and out of warranty"
service and complete calibration services for all Sencore instruments. No local
service centers are authorized to repair Sencore instruments. Factory service
insures you the highest quality work, the latest circuit improvements, factory parts
and the fastest turnaround time possible. Most service repairs are completed
within 72 hours of their receipt.
Page 42 1-800-SENCORE
PARTS
Parts may be ordered from the Service Department. Parts not shown in the parts
list may be ordered by description. Sencore reserves the right to inspect defective
parts before warranty replacements are issued. If you have a question or a problem
that we can help you with, please call or fax :
The following information is for your records and may be helpful when calling the
service department:
SENCORE
3200 Sencore Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
www.sencore.com
1-800-SENCORE
1-800-736-2673
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NOTES