The most important thing we build is trust.

Cobham SATCOM
TracStar Antenna Control System
Advanced VSAT Operations Guide
Version 4.1
TracStar Systems, Inc. dba Cobham SATCOM
1551 College Park Business Center Road • Orlando, FL • 32804
Ph: 407-650-9054 • Fax: 407-650-9086 • www.cobham.com/satcom

!! CAUTION !!
Antennas are typically shipped fully configured for a network. Changing data in the antenna controller may render
the antenna inoperable. Change controller settings with caution.
1
 TracStar Controller Menu Grid
Powerup
Please Wait Rev 2.6x
Motorized
Drive Feed ONLY 1.4 1.5
1.3 GPS Compass
POL

Rev 2.2x
Monitor Loading 1.1 1.2
1.0 1.3 1.4
Check Ready Page Set Ref Set Data
Please Wait GPS Compass
Please Wait Satellite Satellite

2.2
2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.5
Satellite
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock
Parameter Inclined Orbit
Optional S/W

3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna / Polarity Safe

3.7 3.8
3.6
Geographical LNB
Az Stow
Area Gain

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles
Only

4.K
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
SFE
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width
SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base Tilt
 Data Is Subject To Change Without Notice
This document is supplied as and intended to be a reference document for TracStar
Systems product users. The document is periodically updated and may contain data that
does not apply to a user’s specific product or is obsolete. If questions exist regarding the
applicability of the data relative to your product, contact TracStar Technical Support.

This manual and its contents are considered proprietary intellectual property of TracStar
Systems, Inc. Unauthorized use or distribution is specifically prohibited.
Contents are protected by law.

© Copyright 2010 TracStar Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

TracStar Systems is a registered trademark of Cobham, PLC.

Roto-Lok® is a registered trademark of Sagebrush Technologies

Any and all additional product names referred to in this manual may be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies. Such trademarks are the sole property of their respective
owners.
 Table of Contents

QUICK START USER GUIDE 6 3.0 TECH SETUP PAGE 44

Using the Antenna 7 3.1 Set Option 46
Content Information 8 3.2 Set Test 47
Using the Manual 9 3.3 Level/Motor Control Page 49
BASIC Theory of Operation 10 3.4 Select Modem/Antenna/Pol 51
DirectPointTM Theory of Operation 11 3.5 Move/RF_SAFE 53
IFL Cable Connections 12 3.6 Azimuth Stow/External Switch 55
Antenna Setup Options 13 3.7 USAdvb 57
1. Quick Setup Reference – Known Reference Satellites - CONUS 14 3.8 LNB GAIN 59
2. Quick Setup Reference – Known Reference Satellites – NON CONUS 15
3. Quick Setup - From a Script 16 4.0 DIAGNOSTICS PAGE 61
4. Quick Setup - SkyScan 17 4.A Axis Angles 62
User Manual Data Presentation and ACU Operation 18 4.B B Page 63
TracStar Controller Display and Layout 19 4.C C Page 64
4.D Scan Hits 65
1.0 READY PAGE 20 4.E Tilt Angles 66
1.0 Typical Acquisition Sequence 21 4.F Axis Position Transducer Readout 67
DirectPoint – Typical Acquisition Process 22 4.G GPS Data 68
1.1 Set Reference Satellite 23 4.H Axis Zero Offsets 69
1.2 Select Data Satellite 25 4.I Axis Offsets 70
1.3 Polarity 27 4.J Azimuth Scan Width 72
1.4 Manual GPS Input 29 4.K SFE SFR 74
1.5 Manual Compass Input 31 4.L Axis Diagnostics 75
4.M Axis Diagnostics 76
2.0 USER SETUP PAGE 33 4.N Axis Diagnostics 77
2.1 Jog 34 4.O Axis Diagnostics 78
2.2 Satellite Parameters 36 4.P Axis Diagnostics 79
2.3 Reference Satellite 38 4.Q Axis Diagnostics 80
2.4 VS/Lock Methods 41 4.R Axis Diagnostics 81
4.S Axis Diagnostics 82
4.T Axis Diagnostics 83
4.U Axis Diagnostics 84

4
 Table of Contents (cont.)

TROUBLESHOOTING 85

ERROR MESSAGES & RECOVERY 86

Pedestal Preventative Maintenance 87

Pedestal 88

Appendix A – Connection Directions 99

External Stow Monitoring – Vehicle Mounting 100
Gilat 360E Connection 101
SkyEdge Connection 102
Connexstar Cisco Bruno (Gilat) 103
EMS Technologies Connection 104
EMS with EdgeAccess Connection 105
iDirect Netmodem II Connection 106
Avaya G350 Switch Connection 107
EMS & TracStar Gateway 108
iDirect NetModem II 109
iDirect 3000 Series Connection 110
Linkstar Connection 111
Vipersat Connection 112
ViaSat Surf Beam Connection 113
System Integration Example 114
TracStar Control Cable 115
Console and Cross Over Cable Schema 116
TracStar Controller Menu Grid 117
Product Certifications 118

Appendix B – Inclined Orbit Satellite Tracking by TLE 119

Appendix C – TSS6P Quick Start User Guide v1.1 124

5
 IFL
QUICK START USER GUIDE
(Inter Facility Link Cable) IDU
ODU
WHAT TO EXPECT
P TX – (RED) ACU The antenna has a self-calibration and
BUC
E ANT MOD PC IDD
PWR startup routine. User intervention is not
GPS
D required after the initiation of this process.
E
50-60 Hz
Under normal operating conditions the
COMPASS
S Controller / Power 110-220V AC antenna will determine its absolute location,
T
find its predetermined reference satellite,
Single Phase

A
LNB
L then find and lock onto the desired data
satellite. Satellite LOCK can be determined by
BASE SAT MODEM SERIAL
LAN DISPLAY a message on the display unit showing LOCK
TX RX EQUIPMENT UNIT
XXX.X with XXX.X being the desired satellite.

RX – (BLUE)
PERFORMANCE TIPS
NOTE THE FOLLOWING WARNING
Do NOT connect or disconnect the RG6 Coaxial cables or antenna controller cable while power is If after a number of unsuccessful scans or
applied to any connected equipment. Turn off all power before connecting or removing cables. several minutes have passed and no “LOCK”
indication is present on the display:
Failure to do so may cause damage to the system.
 Turn off power and check cable and
TURN KEY OPERATION power connections to all equipment,
 Deploy being careful to observe all warnings.
 Connect antenna as shown above. (The MOD-SERIAL cable is required for modems using GPS Ensure the satellite modem is connected
properly. Reapply Power.
input. It may be a DB9-DB9 or a DB9-RJ45 w/a RJ45 jumper cable, depending on modem style.)
 Apply power from the tabletop power supply or the 1U rack mount power supply (whichever  Ensure there is a clear, unobstructed
applies). view towards the equator relative to the
antenna’s position.
 Once the control panel interface displays “READY”, press “+” and hold for 2 seconds.
 Stow  Check leveling of antenna. Auto-
correction software will accommodate
 Press the MAIN button until the display reads “READY”. up to ±10o of error in the mounting
 Observe green LEDs on the controller interface panel. If necessary, push “Run” once for plane of the antenna. Begin the process
“Ready/Idle” to be displayed. again.
 Press the “-” button and hold for 2 seconds; allow antenna to fully stow.  If the controller display shows “LOCK”
 Remove power from the antenna by turning off power to the power supply or the 1U rack and Voice is available and Internet
mount panel (whichever applies). access is not available, check IP
addressing of your computer and set to
 Once power is removed, disconnect any cables necessary for transporting the antenna. “DHCP”.

6
 Using the Antenna

 The TracStar control system is resident on the antenna.

 No data is stored in the controller’s ACU (Antenna Control Unit).

 The Indoor Display (IDD) with the ‘Blue Box’ or the 1RU controller interface serve as I/O
devices for the user’s antenna system.
NOTE: The IDD unit (or handheld display) was primarily designed to be used indoors in
place of the ACU if there is a need for remote control or monitoring of the system. The
IDD is not waterproof and should not be left outside in the rain.

Antenna Control Unit (ACU)

The desktop controller’s IDD and
the 1RU rack-mount controller
serve as controller interface
devices to the antenna-based
TracStar control system.

OR
TracStar
Controller
System

7
 Content Information

1. Basic Connectivity Information

2. Basic Theory of Operation

3. Antenna Setup Options

4. Antenna Operations and Display Unit Instructions

5. Connection information & diagrams for various modems and configurations

8
 Using the Manual

IMPORTANT  Identifies information that TracStar feels is important

for product operation.

Arrow 1x  Represents ACU navigational instruction, which

Main 2x means:
[n]x = Number of times to press the ACU button to
access a specific Display Page.
For example, “Main 2x” means press the Main button
two times to display the Tech Setup page.

9
 BASIC Theory of Operation

Antenna Description The Standard Satellite Acquisition Process

 Three axis, polarization over elevation over azimuth Upon power up and deployment, the following
acquisition sequence takes place:
 Configurable for operation on most satellites
 Compass aligns the antenna with south (if in the
 Designed for simple operation, performs precise northern hemisphere, to the north if in the
antenna to satellite alignment with the push of a southern hemisphere)
button or a switch  Antenna acquires GPS for high precision
geographic location information
 Pedestal Description:
 Antenna precisely sets elevation angle and
 High precision motors with optical encoders
sweeps through a selected reference satellite,
 Very low backlash drive system monitoring signal characteristics of the reference
satellite
 Each antenna is fully integrated with
 GPS  Antenna peaks on reference satellite until the
center of the antenna beam is located as an
 Compass
alignment reference. Antenna then peaks on the
 DVB Receiver satellite of interest and performs a high precision
 Base level sensor alignment to the satellite
 Antenna Control System with User Interface  Antenna sends GPS to satellite modem (if
applicable)
 Satellite modem initiates contact with network
operations center

10
 Theory of Operation

Antenna Description DirectPoint Acquisition Description

DirectPointTM technology closely couples with the Upon power up and deployment, the following
satellite modem, thus enhancing the satellite acquisition sequence takes place:
acquisition accuracy and reducing the startup time.
 Compass aligns the antenna with south (if in
The antenna goes directly to the data satellite and,
the northern hemisphere, to the north if in the
using enhanced communications capability with
southern hemisphere)
intelligent modems, is able to acquire, lock, and peak
on the specific satellite without the traditional pre-  Antenna acquires GPS data for high precision
alignment (reference satellite) stage. geographic location information
 Using DirectPointTM and bypassing the selected
reference satellite, the antenna pointing
algorithm precisely scans to the selected data
satellite
The DirectPoint mode is invoked by setting “10000” as  Monitoring signal characteristics specific to this
the LOCK method word (see 2.4 VS/Lock Methods) and data satellite, the antenna peaks on the center
selecting “iDirect” (or other two-way communication of the satellite beam and performs a high
modem) as the MODEM (see 3.4 Select precision alignment to this satellite
Modem/Antenna/Pol).
 After completion of the peaking sequence GPS
data is sent to the modem to enable transmit
 The modem can then automatically initiate
contact with the network operations center and
be commissioned into the network

11
 IFL Cable Connections

There are two different types of coaxial connectors on the IFL cables. The cable connecting to the antenna is
shown below. The two-piece connection allows for the O-ring seal in the smaller nut to be placed on the F-type
connector first. Once the cable is connected, the smaller nut is tightened against the cable end allowing the O-
ring to provide a moisture proof seal.

TRANSMIT

RECEIVE

12
 Antenna Setup Options

1. Quick Setup
 This setup is performed for an antenna system to be used in a geographical region for the first time.
 The user has known Reference Satellite information.
 The user does not have Reference Satellite frequencies.

2. Quick Setup Reference from Script

 This setup is performed for an antenna system to be used in a geographical region for the first time.
 The user has a script (that is, orbital positions and frequencies exist for the Reference Satellites and therefore can be
entered into the antenna controller).

3. Quick Setup Reference Using SkyScan

 This setup is performed for an antenna system to be used in a geographical region for the first time.
 There is no information for Reference Satellites.

4. After the Reference Satellites are input, the following criteria should be considered in selecting
them:
 There can be up to 12 Reference Satellites in the library. A general rule is to select 3 to 4.
 The antenna “rated” the satellites during the ScanSky. Reference satellite positions ending with the letter “A” are the
most desirable, then “B”, then “C”. “Z” indicates that sufficient carrier power was not found.
 Try to select satellites that are low in the orbital ARC (east or west of the user’s longitude position); i.e., lower on the
horizon is better.

13
 1. Quick Setup Reference – Known Reference Satellites - CONUS

IMPORTANT Step Function Action Display Page

1. Power up antenna Turn on power at ACU READY

NOTE: The factory default 2. Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP,[Code 0]
setting for Reference + to code 13, Enter Tech Setup [CODE 13]
Satellite is AUTO. The Main 2x READY

system will select a 3. (Input Reference Satellites Page 1.1) From Ready page: READY
reference satellite that is Select Ref 61.5 Satellite Arrow 1x SetREF, 61.5
Select Ref 119.0 Satellite + or – through Ref Sat List XXX.X
optimum for your GPS ENTER SetREF, 119.0
position. Factory Default is AUTO + or – through Ref Sat List XXX.X
Enter
Main READY
Locate the antenna so that 4. (Input data satellite parameters From READY page: READY
it has an unobstructed Page 1.2) Arrow 2x SELECT DATA
view of the orbital arc. Toggle between SatA and SatB + or – [SatA] or [SatB]
Input orbital position for SatA + or – XXX.X
Input orbital position for SatB Enter
Orient the antenna so that
it comes up generally to
the south, if located north
of equator (north, if
located south of equator).

14
 2. Quick Setup Reference – Known Reference Satellites – NON CONUS
Step Function Action Display Page

1. Power up antenna Turn on power at ACU READY

2. Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

IMPORTANT
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP,[Code 0]
+ to code 13, Enter Tech Setup [CODE 13]
Main 2x READY

3. Clear existing satellite data. From READY page READY

NOTE: The factory default (Page 3.2) Main 2x TECH SETUP [Code 13]
setting for Reference Arrow 2x SET TEST, [NONE]
+ or – to [CLEAR REF DATA]
Satellite is AUTO. The Enter [CANCEL]
system will select a + [RUN NOW]
Enter READY
reference satellite that is
optimum for your GPS 4. Input reference satellite parameters. From READY page READY
(Page 2.3) Main 1x USER SETUP
position. Go to reference satellites entry page Arrow 3x [Rs 1]
Enter [XXX.X]
+ or – to Ref Sat Long [XXX.X]
Locate the antenna so that ENTER [XXX.X]
it has an unobstructed Leave both default frequencies 10799 - to [10799] [10799]
Set scan type to Freq ENTER [SS]
view of the orbital arc. + TO [Freq] [Freq]
ENTER
Repeat, up to 12 Ref satellites
Orient the antenna so that
5. Run Frequency Scan From READY page READY
it comes up generally to (Page 3.2 – Set Test/Freq Scan) Main 2x TECH SETUP, [Code 13]
the south (if located north Arrow 2x SET TEST, [NONE]
+ or – to [SCAN FREQ]
of equator), north (if ENTER [cancel]
located south of equator). + [RUN NOW]
Enter READY

*If IDLE SAT shows 0.0, 6. (Input Reference Satellites Page 1.1) From Ready page: READY
Select RefX Satellite Arrow 1x SetREF, X
then Satellite Select RefY Satellite + or – through Ref Sat List XXX.X
Configuration has not ENTER SetREF, Y
+ or – through Ref Sat List XXX.X
been performed and Enter
system will err. Main READY

7. (Input data satellite parameters From READY page: READY

Page 1.2) Arrow 2x SELECT DATA
Toggle between SatA and SatB + or – [SatA] or [SatB]
Input orbital position for SatA + or – XXX.X
Input orbital position for SatB Enter
15
 3. Quick Setup - From a Script

Step Function Action Display Page

1. Power up antenna Turn on power at ACU READY

2. Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP [Code 0]
IMPORTANT + to code 13, ENTER
Main 2x
Tech Setup [CODE 13]
READY

3. Clear existing satellite data. From READY page READY

(Page 3.2) Main 2x TECH SETUP [Code 13]
NOTE: Locate the antenna Arrow 2x SET TEST, [NONE]
so that it has an + or – to [CLEAR REF DATA]
ENTER [cancel]
unobstructed view of the + [RUN NOW]
orbital arc. ENTER READY

4. Input reference satellite parameters From READY page READY

(Page 2.3) Main 1x USER SETUP
Orient the antenna so that Arrow 3x [Rs 1]
it comes up generally to Select Reference Satellite 1 ENTER
Input orbital position for Ref 1 + or – then ENTER [XXX.X]
the south (if located north Input primary frequency for Ref1 + or – then ENTER [XXXXX]
of equator), north (if Input secondary freq. for Ref1 + or – then ENTER [XXXXX]
Repeat, up to 12 Ref satellites + or – then ENTER [Rs2]
located south of equator).
5. (Input reference satellites From READY page: READY
Page 1.1) Arrow 1x Set Ref
Select RefX satellite + or – then ENTER XXX.X
Select RefY satellite + or – then ENTER XXX..X

6. Input data satellite parameters. From READY page READY

(Page 1.2) Arrow 2x SELECT DATA
Toggle between SatA and SatB + or – then Enter [SatA] or [SatB]
Input orbital position for SatA + or – then Enter XXX.X
Input orbital position for SatB + or – then Enter XXX.X

16
 4. Quick Setup - SkyScan

Step Function Action Display Page

1. Power up antenna Turn on power at ACU READY

2. Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

IMPORTANT
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP, [Code 0]
+ to code 13, Enter Tech Setup, [CODE 13]
Main 2x

NOTE: Locate the antenna 3. Clear existing satellite data. From READY page READY
(Page 3.2) Main 2x TECH SETUP, [Code 13]
so that it has an Arrow 2x SET TEST, [NONE]
unobstructed view of the + or – to [CLEAR REF DATA]*
ENTER [cancel]
orbital arc. + [RUN NOW]
ENTER READY

Orient the antenna so that 4. Initiate ScanSky function: From SET TEST page SET TEST, [NONE]
+ or – to [SCAN Sky]
it comes up generally to ENTER [cancel]
the south (if located north + [RUN NOW]
ENTER Initiates Sky Scan
of equator), north (if
located south of equator). 5. Input reference satellites From READY page: READY
(Page 1.1) Arrow 1x Set Ref
Select RefX satellite + or – then ENTER XXX.X
See Section 3.7 if CLEAR Select RefY satellite + or – then ENTER XXX.X

REF DATA is used.

6. Input data satellite parameters. From READY page READY
Frequency data for LNB (Page 1.2) Arrow 2x SELECT DATA
must be re-entered. Toggle between SatA and SatB + or – then ENTER [SatA] or [SatB]
Input orbital position for SatA + or - then ENTER XXX.X
Input orbital position for SatB + or – then ENTER XXX.X

17
 User Manual Data Presentation
and ACU Operation
READY: ( +UP -DN)
IDLE SAT A @ 127

IMPORTANT
There are four distinct groupings of
Powerup
functions in the operation of the
Please Wait Rev 2.6x
Motorized
Drive Feed ONLY
1.4 1.5
TracStar Antenna Control Unit (ACU):
GPS Compass
1.3
POL
Rev 2.2x
• Ready
User Setup
Monitor Loading 1.1 1.2
Check
Please Wait Please Wait
1.0
Ready Page Set Ref
Satellite
Set Data
Satellite
1.3
GPS
1.4
Compass •
• Tech Setup
• Diagnostics
2.2
2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.5

This manual describes each of these

Satellite
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock
Parameter Inclined Orbit
Optional S/W

groups individually.
3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna /
Polarity
Safe
During actual ACU operation, the
various groupings are selected by
3.6
3.7
Geographical
3.8
LNB
pushing the MAIN button the
Az Stow
Area Gain
appropriate number of times, thus
moving “vertically” to select the
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E desired group function.
Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles
Only

Regardless of what operation is

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
4.K
SFE
displayed on the ACU display panel,
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFR
returning to the MAIN or MASTER
menu may always be accomplished by
4.L
azEr
4.M
elEr
4.N
plEr
4.O
Az>EncSF
4.P
Az>psf
4.Q
El>EncSF continually pressing MAIN until
“READY” displays.

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

18
 TracStar Controller Display and Layout
Powerup
Please Wait Rev 2.6x
Motorized
1.4 1.5
Drive Feed ONLY
GPS Compass
1.3
POL
Rev 2.2x
Monitor Loading 1.0 1.1 1.2
Check Set Ref Set Data 1.3 1.4
Please Wait Ready Page GPS Compass
Please Wait Satellite Satellite
Places the antenna in
START/ operational mode (green
2.0 2.1
2.2
Satellite
2.3 2.4 2.5
STOP LED on top) or idle (green
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock
Parameter Inclined Orbit
Optional S/W LED on bottom).
3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
MAIN scrolls through the
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna / Safe
Polarity
menu vertically.
DISPLAY
SELECT
3.7 3.8
3.6
Geographical LNB
Az Stow
 Scrolls through the
Area Gain

menu horizontally .
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles
Only

ENTER selects or scrolls

through page options.
MODIFY
4.K
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
SFE
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFR

READY: ( +UP -DN) + or – Modifies a selection.

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF
IDLE SAT A @ 127

4.R 4.S 4.T

IMPORTANT
4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base Tilt

A Flashing question mark [---?---] in the display indicates an item has not
yet changed in the process. Select the desired item with [+/-] then press
ENTER.

Flashing blocks indicate that something has changed but has not been
stored in the EPROM. ENTER must still be pressed to move to the next
item.
19
 1.0 READY PAGE
READY: ( +UP -DN) READY is the main or default page and
IDLE SAT A @ 127 displays once the system is powered
up. It displays the selected satellite and
Powerup
orbital position in degrees longitude
Please Wait 1.2 & 1.8M Motor
Drive Feed ONLY 1.4 1.5
(positive degrees = West longitude; “-”
1.3
GPS Compass or negative degrees = East longitude).
POL
Monitor
Check
Loading
1.0 1.1
Set Ref
1.2
Set Data 1.3 1.4  To activate the system: Turn on
power to the TracStar Power
Please Wait Ready Page GPS Compass
Please Wait Satellite Satellite

Supply.
2.0 2.1
2.2
2.3 2.4
 To deploy: When READY displays,
press “+” and hold for 2 seconds to
Satellite 2.5
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock LST
Parameter

initiate a satellite acquisition. (This

Factory Only

can be done with the antenna in

3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
3.4
Modem/
3.5
Move/RF
any position.)
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna / Safe
Polarity  Press MAIN to navigate through the
main menu; press to navigate
3.6
3.7 3.8 horizontally through the display
Az Stow
Geograph-ical
Area
LNB
Gain pages; press ENTER to store a field
change or switch between fields on
a page.
 To stow: When READY displays,
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles

press “–” and hold for 2 seconds to

Only

stow. (This can be done with the

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
4.K antenna in any position.) Lower
STOP LED should be on.
SFE
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFR

 From the READY page, press:

 to move to the Select
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

Satellite page.
 MAIN to move to User Setup.
Note that when the system is in READY
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis –

(standby) mode, the bottom green LED

Base Tilt

(STOP) is on. When the system is

active, the top LED (START) is on.
20
 1. Typical Acquisition Sequence
Message Displayed Description

POWER UP Power is being applied to the system

PLEASE WAIT
MONITOR CHECK The system is initiating its internal monitor software
PLEASE WAIT
LOADING The system is going through a momentary warm-up stage (3-5
PLEASE WAIT seconds)

READY: (+ up – down) The system is in standby mode waiting for instructions (green
LED is on bottom):
(a) Press + to initiate an acquisition
(b) Press – to stow the antenna
RUN: (+/- stop) The system is active and has started an acquisition (green LED
Startup @ XX on top). NOTE: any time the system is active press + or – to
place the system in standby.
RUN: (+/- stop) The system is reading the compass and aligning.
Compass XXX Shows relative compass sensor reading.

RUN: (+/- stop) The system is acquiring GPS signals

Wait GPS 118 Last digit shows number of GPS satellites acquired.

RUN: (+/- stop) The system is scanning a reference satellite

SCAN XXX YYYY XXX is orbital position; YYY shows signal strength

RUN: (+/- stop) The system is scanning the selected communications satellite
PEAK XXX YYY
RUN: (+/- stop) The antenna is locked on the selected satellite
Locked XXX YYY
IDLE To place the system is standby, press + or -, READY page will
appear

21
 DirectPoint – Typical Acquisition Process

NOTE:
A reference satellite is not
used with the DirectPoint
acquisition process. To
engage the DirectPoint mode,
the modem must be capable
of two-way communication
with the TracStar controller
and a console cable must be
connected between the
modem and the controller
and the controller LOCK
Word must be set to 10000*.
DirectPoint is typically preset
at the factory if shipped with a
DirectPoint capable modem.
For field setting, follow LOCK & Signal Strength
Word setup procedures on
page 39.

*or appropriate setting as defined in

Section 2.4

22
 1.1 Set Reference Satellite
SetREF
Xd AUTO Yd 110.0
 The antenna system uses a reference
satellite as part of the acquisition process.
SetREF  The Set Reference Satellite page allows
the user to select up to two pre-
Xd AUTO Yd 110.0Yd programmed reference satellites from a
PowerUp
stored library.
Please
Wait
 The RefX is the primary and the RefY is
the secondary. The secondary reference
Monitor Loading satellite will be used in case the primary
Check
Please
Please
Wait 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 satellite cannot be found, for example,
Wait Ready Set Ref
Satellite
Set Data
Satellite
Polarity
(See Note)
GPS Compass
signal blockage.
Page
1.1
Set REF
Satellite

IMPORTANT

 NOTE: Satellites located west of 0°

longitude are positive and those east of 0°
are shown as a negative number.

 1.3 Polarity is only viewable for the 1.2

and 1.8 Meter antennas.

 For best results, the REF satellite should

be low to the horizon and not overhead.

23
 1.1 Set Reference Satellite (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13 Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x

Set Reference Page From Ready Page: SetREF

(Page 1.1) Arrow 1x X[XXX.X] Y XXX.X
Reference X is the primary reference + or – then Enter SetREF
satellite. Select the appropriate [XXX.X] Y [XXX.X]
reference satellite from the library.
Factory default is AUTO for USAdvb (Press + to select
only. known satellite or
“auto”, then Enter)

Reference Y is the secondary satellite in + or – then Enter SetREF

case the primary satellite is not XXX.X Y [XXX.X]
available, i.e., blockage. In some cases (Press + to select
the RefY satellite will be used as a check known satellite or
during the acquisition. If RefX is set as “auto”, then Enter)
AUTO, then setting RefY to other than
AUTO will cause the RefY location to be
tried FIRST, followed by the AUTO list as
needed.

24
 1.2 Select Data Satellite
SELECT DATA [SAT A]
A [ xxx.x] B[yyy.y]

SELECT DATA [SatA]

A [XXX.X] B[ XXX.X]

 The Set Data Satellite page allows

the user to select the
PowerUp
Please
Wait
communications satellite of interest.

The user can select up to two pre-

Monitor Loading
Check
Please
Please
Wait
1.0
Ready
1.1
Set Ref
1.2
Set Data
1.3
Polarity
1.4
GPS
1.5
Compass 
programmed data satellites, SatA
Satellite
Wait Page
1.2
Satellite

Select DATA and SatB.

 The user can program the desired

satellite by entering the orbital
position in degrees longitude.

IMPORTANT

NOTE: Satellites west of 0° longitude

must be entered as positive values;
satellites east of 0° longitude must be
entered as negative values.

25
 1.2 Select Data Satellite (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
Set Satellite Page From Ready Page: SELECT DATA [SatA]
(Page 1.2) Arrow 2x A XXX.X B XXX.X

When SatA is flashing, the antenna will acquire + or – to [SAT A] or [SAT B] SELECT DATA [SatA]
SatA. The orbital position for SatA is shown on the A XXX.X B XXX.X
bottom row as well as on the READY page. Press ENTER SELECT DATA [SAT A]
ENTER to select SatA, or press + to change to
SatB , then press ENTER. [A XXX.X] B XXX.X

Now the orbital position for SatA is flashing and + or – to Data Sat Long SELECT DATA [SatA]
the user can input the desired orbital position in A XXX.X B XXX.X
degrees longitude. Press + or - until the desired ENTER SELECT DATA SAT A
value is reached then ENTER.
A XXX.X [B XXX.X]

Now the orbital position for SatB is flashing and SELECT DATA SatA
the user can input the desired orbital position in + or – then Enter A XXX.X [B XXX.X]
degrees longitude. Press + or - until the desired
value is reached then ENTER.
Main READY

NOTE: Satellites west of 0° longitude

must be entered as positive values;
satellites east of 0° longitude must be
entered as negative values.

26
 1.3 Polarity
POLARITY VertDN
ReUSE Freq

POLARITY VertDN
ReUSE Freq

PowerUp
Please
Wait

 Applies to Rev 2.6x or greater

Monitor
Check
Loading
Please 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 SW only (motorized feed
assembly ONLY.) Is not
Ready Set Ref Set Data Polarity GPS Compass
Please Wait
Wait Page Satellite Satellite
1.3 viewable with other antennas.
Polarity
 The user is allowed to change the
polarization of the receive
frequency.

 Allows the user to ReSCAN the

existing selection of Satellite A /
Satellite B frequency after
changing the receive polarity.

27
 1.3 POLARITY (con’t)

Description Action Display

Polarity Page From Ready Page: POLARITY [VertDN]

(Page 1.3) Arrow 3x
FOR TracStar1200 and 1800 ANTENNAS ONLY

After the code is entered, the word VertDN is + or – then Enter POLARITY [VertDN]
flashing. The user can now manually input the
desired polarity, VertDN or HorzDN.

ReUSE Freq is now flashing. The user can + or – then Enter [ReUSE Freq]
now manually select the ReUSE or ReSCAN
options.
[ReSCAN Freq]

NOTE: ReSCAN is not intended to replace the

Satellite Parameters / Section 2.2 of the
manual. If the proper frequencies are in place
for SatA and SatB, a simple ReSCAN can be
used after changing polarity. If problems are
IMPORTANT
encountered, refer to Section 2.2, reset the
SatA and SatB frequencies to 10799 and the
antenna will scan for the best available
frequency.

28
 1.4 Manual GPS Input
GPS NORMAL

GPS NORMAL

PowerUp
Please
Wait

• The antenna system has an

integrated GPS to aid in satellite
Monitor Loading 1.4 1.5
1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3
Check Please GPS Compass
Please Wait Ready Set Ref Set Data Polarity
Wait Page Satellite Satellite
1.3 acquisition.
GPS
• The Manual GPS page allows the
user to select between the built in
GPS (default) or manually input GPS
coordinates in case the GPS is
unavailable. Power cycling the unit
resets to default conditions.

29
 1.4 Manual GPS Input (con’t)
Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
GPS Normal Page From Ready Page: GPS [NORMAL]
(Page 1.4) Arrow 4x

After the code is entered, the word NORMAL is + or – then Enter GPS [NORMAL]
flashing. The user can now manually input the
GPS coordinates.

MAN is now flashing, press ENTER to step to Enter Gps[MAN] LATXXX.XX

the latitude input. LONG XXX.XX

LAT is now flashing, press + or – until the + or – then Enter GpsMAN [LAT 22.86]
desired coordinate is reached, then press LONG XXX.XX
ENTER.

LONG is now flashing, press + or – until the + or – then Enter GpsMAN LAT 22.86
desired coordinate is reached, then press LONG [81.23]
ENTER.

IMPORTANT
NOTES:
1. Coordinates are entered in degrees and decimals of degrees (vs. minutes
and seconds).
2. Coordinates west of 0° longitude are positive, east of 0° are negative
values.
3. Coordinates north of the equator (latitude) are positive, south of the
equator are negative.

30
 1.5 Manual Compass Input
COMPASS NORMAL

COMPASS NORMAL

PowerUp
Please
Wait
 The antenna system has an
integrated compass to aid in satellite
Monitor Loading
acquisition.
Check Please
1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5
Ready Set Data Polarity GPS Compass
The Manual Compass page allows the
Set Ref

Please Wait

1.5
Wait Page Satellite Satellite

Compass user to provide the antenna with a

north or south heading in case the
compass is unavailable or heavily
influenced by external magnetic
fields.
 The Compass Heading selection
allows a forced compass heading to
be entered where 180 = south.

 The Menu returns to the READY

PAGE.

NOTE: In normal operation, the antenna

uses GPS readings and input from modems
capable of two-way communication with
the antenna to establish a compass-less
heading reference.

31
 1.5 Manual Compass Input (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13 Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
COMPASS Page From Ready Page: COMPASS [NORMAL]
(Page 1.5) Arrow 5x

After the code is entered, the word NORMAL is + or – then Enter COMPASS [NORMAL]
flashing. Press + or – to change to Manual
input, then ENTER.

The Display now prompts the user to jog the + or – then Enter COMPASS [MANUAL]
antenna to face or point south (north in JOG South, Start
southern hemisphere). The Jog function is
described in section 2.1.
Once the antenna is pointed south using the
Jog function, press START and the system will
initiate its scan from the manually input south
position.

*Ideally, the antenna should be pointed as

close to south as manual positioning allows.

The Display now prompts the user to ENTER A + or – then Enter COMPASS [HEADING]
KNOWN HEADING. 180 DEGREES = SOUTH JOG Heading, Start

32
 2.0 USER SETUP PAGE
USER SETUP 
# 0 Ver vwxy.Z

USER SETUP == >

Powerup
Please
Wait #XXXXX Ver 1.234Z

Monitor Loading
1.0
 USER SETUP contains several
Check Please
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait
interactive and setup pages
2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4
including antenna jog control and
satellite parameter setup.
2.5
User Jog Page Satellite Ref Sat VS / Lock LST
Setup Parameter Factory Only
2.0
User Setup  The antenna serial number and
the software version are shown on
the bottom line.

 Press to step to the Jog page

or MAIN to step to the TECH
SETUP page.

3.0
Tech
Setup

33
 2.1 Jog
Jog [FAST] A xxx.x
A 0 E0 ss 0 Jog [FAST] A xxx.x
A 0 E 0 ss 0

Powerup  Jog control enables the user to

manually position the antenna in the
Please
Wait

azimuth, elevation and polarization

axes. The jog step increment is
flashing.
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 Press + to select FAST (1 Degree

2.0 User
Setup 2.1
2.2
Satellite
2.3
Ref Sat
2.4
VS / Lock
2.5
LST
steps) or SLOW (0.1 Degree steps)
jog increments.
Jog Page Parameter

2.1
Factory Only

Jog Page
 Press ENTER to save the selection.

FAST
SLOW

CAUTION:
IMPORTANT
Jog [FAST] A xxx.x
DO NOT JOG THE ANTENNA IN
A 0 E 0 ss 0 AZIMUTH OR POLARIZATION WHILE
IN STOW.
Top A – Denotes position of each respective axis by heading – Az, El, Pol
Based on selected axis below. Top A changes to E for Elevation and P for Polarity. To avoid OVERTRAVEL errors, DO
NOT DRIVE THE ANTENNA BEYOND
Bottom A, E, P (ss alternately) - # of button pushes
ITS TRAVEL LIMITS IN ANY AXIS.

34
 2.1 Jog (con’t)
Description Action Display

Jog Page From Ready Page: Jog FAST A XXX.XX

(Page 2.1) Main 1x
Arrow 1x
Jog Position is now flashing. The user can select FAST or + or – then Enter Jog FAST A XXX.XX
SLOW jog increments. Fast=1.0 degree/step
Slow = 0.1 degree per step
The azimuth position is now flashing. The user can jog + or – then Enter Jog FAST 1.0  ENT
the antenna by pressing + for clockwise and – for [A 0] E 0 P 0
counterclockwise.

Now the elevation position is flashing. The user can jog + or – then Enter Jog FAST 1.0  ENT
the antenna by pressing + for up and – for down. A 0 [E 0] P 0

Now the polarization position is flashing. When viewed + or – then Enter Jog FAST 1.0  ENT
from the rear of the dish. the user can jog the antenna A 0 E 0 [P 0]
by pressing + for clockwise and – for counterclockwise.

NOTES:
1. The antenna has a 99 step counter limit. If the antenna jogs to
its limit stop and you need to go further, pres STOP then START IMPORTANT
to reset the counter to ‘0’. Then continue jogging the antenna.
2. The user must press START/STOP to activate the antenna
motors. The top green LED will flash when the motors are
enabled.
3. DO NOT JOG THE ANTENNA IN AZIMUTH OR POLARIZATION
WHILE IN STOW.
4. DO NOT DRIVE THE ANTENNA BEYOND ITS TRAVEL LIMITS IN
ANY AXIS.
35
 2.2 Satellite Parameters
SatA f 10799, 11857
0 119.0 sr 28

SatAf10799,11857
0 119.0 sr28

Powerup
Please
Wait

The Satellite Parameters page allows

the user to view or edit the
Monitor
Check
Loading
Please 1.0
Ready Page
frequencies used to acquire the
communications satellite.
Please Wait
Wait

2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5

2.0 2.1 Satellite Ref Sat VS / Lock LST
User Setup Jog Page Parameter
2.2
Factory Only

Satellite
Parameters

36
 2.2 Satellite Parameters (con’t)

Description Action Display

Satellite Parameters Page From Ready Page: SatAf10799, 10799

(Page 2.2) Main 1x [0] 119 sr28
Arrow 2x
The user can toggle between SatA and SatB. + or – then Enter SatAf10799, 10799
To change to SatB, press + to switch to SatB. [0] 119 sr28
To change from SatB to SatA, press -. The
orbital position of the selected satellite is
displayed on the bottom row.

To input a new frequency for SatA press Enter + or – then Enter SatA[f10799], 10799
then + or – to the desired frequency, then 0 119 sr28
Enter. The default frequency is 10799. When
the default is entered, the antenna will scan
for the best frequency available.

This is the secondary frequency and may be + or – then Enter SatAf10799, [10799]
used by the antenna to verify lock or as a 0 119 sr28
backup frequency, depending on the Lock
Word (paragraph 2.4)
sr is the symbol rate and should not be
adjusted.

37
 2.3 Reference Satellite
Rs f11000, 11000
110.0d SS

[Rs] f10799, 10799

110.0 usdvb

Powerup
Please
Wait

Monitor Loading 1.0

 The Reference Satellite page provides

Check Please Ready
Please Wait Page
Wait
access to the available reference
2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4
satellites so the user can:
2.5
User
Setup
Jog Page Satellite
Parameter
Rs VS / Lock
LST
 Enter Reference Satellites
2.3 Factory Only

 Delete Reference Satellites

Ref Satellite
 Edit parameters
 Up to 12 reference satellites can be
stored.

38
 2.3 Reference Satellite (con’t)

Description Action Display

Reference Satellite Page From Ready Page: [Rs1] f10799,10799

(Page 2.3) Main 1x XXX.X USDvB
Arrow 3x

The user can enter/edit the reference satellites + or – then Enter [RsX] f10799,10799
from this page. When [RSX] is flashing the XXX.X USDvB
user can step to the next reference satellite
with + or -. There can be up to 12 Reference
Satellites stored. Select the desired Ref
satellite number then Enter.

The orbital position is now flashing and can be + or – then Enter RsX f10799,10799
edited. Press + or – to the desired value, [XXX.X] USDvB
then Enter

The primary frequency is now flashing. Use + + or – then Enter Rs2 [f10799],10799
or – to set the desired frequency or set to XXX.X USDvB
10799 as default, then Enter.

The default frequency will be automatically

updated when the frequency scan is run
(para. 3.2 Set Test). Over 6-8 weeks without
power to the antenna, scanned frequencies
may be lost unless a save to EEPROM is
performed.

Continued on Next Page

39
 2.3 Reference Satellite (con’t)

Description Action Display

The backup frequency is now flashing. Use + + or – then Enter Rs2 f10799,[10799]
or – to set the desired frequency or set to XXX.X USDvB
10799 as default, then Enter. The default will
be automatically updated when the frequency
scan is run (para. 3.2 Set Test)

The user can select a scan method that uses + or – then Enter Rs2 f10799, 10799
signal strength (SS) or frequency (Freq) or XXX.X [USDvB]
USDvB to acquire the Reference Satellite.

If more Reference Satellites are desired, + or – then Enter [RsX] f10799, 10799
change to RsX then input the orbital positions XXX.X USDvB
and frequencies. Repeat until all the applicable
Reference Satellites are input.

40
 2.4 VS/Lock Methods
vs 6.00 ELfix Y
LOCK 1022

VS 6.00 ELfix Y
Lock 1022

Powerup
Please

 This page gives the user the ability to:

Wait

 Change between SatA and SatB

Monitor
Check
Loading
Please 1.0
Ready Page
satellites without initiating a new
acquisition sequence, i.e., skip the
Please Wait
Wait

compass and reference satellite scan

2.0
User
2.1
Jog Page
2.2
Satellite
2.3
Ref Sat 2.4 2.5 functions. The antenna will move
directly between SatA and SatB
Peak/Ref LST
Setup Parameter

2.4
Factory Only

VS / Lock  Set the Lock Method Word

 Upon Power Up, the antenna will default

as follows:
 Peak: ST: As previously set
 VS 6.00 ELfix Y – DO NOT CHANGE
 Lock Word: As previously set

41
 2.4 Peak/Lock Method (con’t)
Description Action Display

The Lock Word sets the criteria by which the + or – then Enter Peak ST El fix Y
antenna identifies satellites. The choices are [Lock 1022]
to use a transponder/carrier frequency or by
signal strength. By modifying the Lock
Word, certain conditions are set and must be
met for the antenna to lock.
Note: The following are valid lock words. 1233, 1133, 1036, 1022,
1032, 1023, 1222,
1233,1232,1223. 5022 and
NORMAL w/compass 10000 (DirectPoint Mode)
NO COMPASS W/DirectPoint 10001
SLOW w/compass 10002

NOTES:
 5022 is for NO COMPASS REFERENCE
 All 11xx and 12xx lockwords are NOT
useable with Tuner Version “B” which
has no SNR ability.

42
 Peak ST VS 6.00 ELfix Y
Lock 1022 2.4 Peak/Lock Method (con’t)

0 1 0 2 2
Reference Satellite Reference Satellite Reference Satellite Data Satellite
Scan Lock Condition Frequency Condition Frequency Condition
0 = Signal Strength 0 = AGC 0 = Neither 0 = Neither
1= DirectPoint Mode 1 = Frequency 1 = AGC & SNR 1 = SLOW w/compass 2 = F1 or F2
All Other parameters must be 2 = SNR Only 2 = F1 or F2 3 = F1 and F2
“0”

3 = F1 and F2 6 = Peak on B;
Move to Sat A

Example: 1022 is a decimal word and will set the following condition for 1022 = This digit sets the condition that the antenna must find either the
acquisition of the Reference and Data Satellite: primary or the secondary frequency (F1 or F2)
on the reference satellite in order to confirm lock. Alternatively, if the digit is
1022 = When the antenna is scanning for the Reference satellite, it will set = 3, F1 AND F2 will be confirmed in order for the antenna to lock. *
use the frequency from the Reference Satellite Page (2.3). Alternatively,
if the digit is set to 0, the antenna will scan for the Reference Satellite If the last digit is set to = 6, the antenna will peak on Satellite B, then swing
using signal strength. to Satellite A. Use this for extreme cases where there appears to be no
transponder on the desired data satellite.
1022 = 0 the AGC circuit of the internal receiver is used for a satellite lock
indication. If the digit = 1, the lock indication is a combination of AGC and With DirectPoint™ the Lock Method Word can be set to 10000 to enable
SNR (Signal Noise Ratio) readings. If the digit = 2, the lock indication is peaking on the desired satellite (Sat A or Sat B) without using a Reference
from SNR values only. satellite. In this mode the carrier data from the modem is use solely for
acquiring and peaking on the satellite.
1022 = This digit sets the condition that the antenna must find either the
primary or the secondary frequency (F1 or F2) LOCK WORDS FOR COMPASS-LESS ACQUISITION & DIRECTPOINT
on the reference satellite in order to confirm lock. Alternatively, if the COMBINATION
digit is set = 3, F1 AND F2 will be confirmed in order for the antenna to 10000 – Normal scan w/compass
lock. 10001 – No compass / DirectPoint
10002 – Slow scan w/compass

The valid lock words are: 1022, 1033, 1023, 1032, 1222, 1233, 1232, 1223,
1036 and 5022. Use 10000 for DirectPoint acquisition.*

43
 3.0 TECH SETUP PAGE
TECH SETUP
Code 0
 ACU Display
Layout TECH SETUP -->
Code 0
Powerup
Please Wait Rev 2.6x
Motorized
1.4 1.5
Drive Feed ONLY
GPS Compass
1.3
POL

Monitor
Check
Loading
1.0 1.1
Set Ref
1.2
Set Data
Rev 2.2x
1.3 1.4 TECH SETUP contains several
interactive setup pages and the
Please Wait Ready Page GPS Compass
Please Wait Satellite Satellite

ability to enable/disable various

2.0 2.1
2.2
2.3 2.4 2.5
sensors and motor drives. This
page is password-protected to
Satellite
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock
Parameter Inclined Orbit
Optional S/W
prevent inadvertent or undesirable
3.4 3.5
changes. The user must press +
to Code 13 and then ENTER to edit
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna / Safe

these pages.
Polarity

3.7 3.8
3.6
Geographical LNB

!! CAUTION !!
Az Stow
Area Gain

Antennas are typically

shipped fully configured for a
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles
Only

network. Changing data in

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
4.K the antenna controller may
render the antenna
SFE
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFR

inoperable. Change controller

settings with caution.
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R
El>psf
4.S
Pl>EncSF
4.T
Pl>psf
4.U
Axis
IMPORTANT
Base TIlt

44
 3.0 TECH SETUP (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter READY
Main 2x

45
 3.1 Set Option
SET OPTION
OPTION 0

SET OPTION
PowerUp [OPTION 0]
Please
Wait

Monitor Loading

Set Option is occasionally used for

Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready
Page
special functions by factory
Wait

personnel.
2.0
User

!! CAUTION !!
Setup

3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5

Antennas are typically shipped
Tech
Setup
Set Option Self Test Level /
Axix
Modem /
Antenna
Move/RF
Safe fully configured for a network.
3.1
Changing data in the antenna
Disable

Set Option
3.7 3.8 controller may render the
antenna inoperable. Change
3.6 Geographical LNB
Az Stow Area Gain

controller settings with caution.

4.0
Diagnostics

IMPORTANT

46
 3.2 Set Test
SET TEST
NONE SET TEST
[NONE]

There are several function available to the

user in Set Test. Press the +
key to select the desired function.
PowerUp
Please
Wait

Monitor Loading
NOTE: The following tests do not have
input parameters. They are either RUN or
1.0
Check Please Ready
Please Wait Page
Wait
NOT RUN as a standard factory setup
under the direction of factory personnel.
2.0
User  NONE:
Setup
 SET PAZO: Sets pol axis azimuth offset –
(use when changing from factory reflector)
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5  MECH CAL: Mechanical self-calibration of
Tech
Setup
Set
Option
Set
Test
Level /
Motor
Modem /
Antenna
Move / RF
Safe antenna
3.2  USA REF SETUP – Clears out data and Ref
Set Test Sat locations and defaults to USAdvb
3.6
Az Stow
3.7
Geograph-ical
3.8
LNB
settings
CLEAR REF DATA – Clears out all SAT / Ref
Gain
Area

SAT data
4.0
 SCAN FREQ: Scans selected Reference
Diagnostic
SET PAXO Satellites for transponder/carrier frequencies
that will be used in subsequent acquisitions.
MECH CAL
USA REF SETUP
CLEAR REF DATA
SCAN FREQ
SCAN Sky
 SCAN Sky: Scans the orbital arc for
EEP
SHOW MOVEs
Reference Satellite positions, signal strength
and frequency.
 EEP Save: Saves memory to NVEProm.
 SHOW MOVEs: Pre-programmed satellite
acquisition simulation.

47
 3.2 Set Test

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter READY
Main 2x
Set Test Page From Ready Page: SET TEST
(Page 3.2) Main 2x [NONE]
Arrow 2x
Press + or – until the desired function is + or – then Enter SET TEST
shown: [NONE]
Set PAZO – Factory Direction Only
MECH CAL – Factory Direction Only
USA REF SETUP – Factory Direction Only
CLEAR REF DATA – Factory Direction Only
SCAN FREQ – Factory Direction Only
SCAN Sky – Factory Direction Only
EEP Save – Factory Direction Only

SHOW MOVEs – simulates antenna acquisition

process for indoor demonstrations
+ or - SET TEST [CANCEL]
SCAN FREQ

Enter SET TEST [RUN NOW]

SCAN FREQ

48
 3.3 Level/Motor Control Page
LEVEL [ON] Az PL NOR
GYRO OFF EL NOR

LEVEL [ON] Az PL NOR

GYRO OFF El NOR

PowerUp
Please
Wait
 This page gives the user the ability
to turn off the base level sensor and
Monitor
Check
Loading
Please 1.0
the azimuth, elevation and
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
polarization motors. This would
normally only be performed in a
troubleshooting application.
2.0
User Setup

 The GYRO option is not applicable to

this antenna. Default setting is OFF.
3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor

3.3
Antenna Safe

Level/Motor
3.7 3.8
3.6
Geograph-ical LNB
Az Stow
Area Gain

4.0
Diagnostic

49
 3.3 Level/Motor Control (con’t)

Display
Description Action
BLUE indicates default setting
Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter READY
Main 2x
Level / Motor Control Page From Ready Page: LEVEL [ON/OFF] Az PLNOR
(Page 3.3) Main 2x GYRO OFF EL NOR
Arrow 3x

The user can turn the base level sensor off, this + or – then Enter LEVEL [ON/OFF] Az PLNOR
would only be done during a maintenance or GYRO OFF EL NOR
troubleshooting activity. MAY CAUSE ANTENNA
ACQUISITION FAILURE.
The user can turn the azimuth and polarization + or – then Enter LEVEL ON Az PL [NOR/DIS]
motor off, normally only a troubleshooting GYRO OFF EL NOR
function.

The user can turn the elevation motor off, + or – then Enter LEVEL ON Az PL NOR
normally only a troubleshooting function. GYRO OFF EL [NOR /DIS]

Changes in pedestal design allow respective antennas to achieve higher

elevation angles. Attempting to exceed standard elevation limits on IMPORTANT
antennas that are not modified will damage the antenna. Contact
TracStar Technical Support for more information.

50
 3.4 Select Modem/Antenna/Pol
MODEM [XXXXXXXX]
Ant 96 PNOR 2.2x SW – PNor / Prev
2.6x SW – Motor Feed

Modem [XXXXXXX]
Ant 1.2SE VertDN
PowerUp
Please
Wait

 The antenna has a serial interface

for communications to selected
Monitor Loading
Check Please
1.0
Please Wait

modem types. The antenna can

Ready Page
Wait

provide GPS information over this

2.0
port.
User Setup

 Press the + or – key to scroll

3.4 3.5
through the pre-programmed
modem models, make a selection
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor

3.4
Antenna Safe

and press ENTER.

Modem/
3.8Antenna
3.6
Az Stow
3.7
Geograph-ical LNB  On the TracStar1200 (1.2 Meter)
and TracStar1800 Antennas with
Area Gain

the Motorized Feed Assembly,

4.0 Receive Polarization can be
Diagnostic
selected.

51
 3.4 Select Modem/Antenna/Pol (con’t)

Description Action
Display MODEM Supported
TYPE Modems
Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP NONE Non GPS
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13 modems
Enter READY
Main 2x iDirect * Net Modem
II Plus
Select Modem / Antenna Page From Ready Page: Modem [iDirect]
(Page 3.4) Main 2x Ant 96 Remove Linkstar Linkstar,
Arrow 4x EMS
The user can select from the following modem + or – then Enter Modem [iDirect] Linkway Linkway
types for the GPS interface: Ant 96 Remove
None Aux Factory
iDirect Remote
Linkstar
Com Tech * Com Tech
Linkway
SCPC
AuxRemote
Skylane96* Skylane @
The antenna type cannot be changed without Contact Factory Modem iDirect
factory direction. 9600 baud
Ant 96 Remove
Gilat * SkyEdge
Motorized POL Feed Antennas ONLY iNfiniti * 3000,5000,
7000
The user can select the Receive Polarization for + or – then Enter [HorzDN] iDirect
the antenna. Choices are:
HorzDN iNfiniti IP * ALL
VertDN Lantronics
Adapter Req’d

* DirectPoint Capable
Modems

52
 3.5 Move/RF_SAFE
MoveSAFE RF_ SAFE Move[SAFE] RF_SAFE
EL 3.00 STOW_EN EL 3.00 Stow EN

There are several safety features built into

the antenna:
 MOVE SAFE prevents any azimuth
PowerUp
Please
motion including jog commands below
Wait
a pre-set elevation angle. This is to
prevent jogging the antenna at too low
Monitor
Check
Loading
Please
of angles and possibility causing a
Please
Wait
Wait
mechanical interference.
 RF SAFE provides a Transmit Inhibit
2.0
feature. If there is a motion command
User Setup
given to the antenna while it is locked
onto a satellite, the transmitter will be
3.4 3.5
inhibited prior to any motion of the
antenna. The modem must have an
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move//RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
3.5
Antenna Safe

Move/RF optional DC block installed in the

SAFE transmit line to be valid and for this
3.6
Az Stow
3.7
Geograph-ical
3.8
LNB feature to be used.
Area Gain

 STOW EN will automatically stow the

antenna IF:
4.0  Power is still present on the pedestal
Diagnostic
 The GPS system detects movement of
more than ten (10) meters.
Requires approximately 45 seconds to
complete the STOW process. Power
MUST be present on the pedestal to
operate.
IMPORTANT
53
 3.5 MOVE/RF_SAFE (con’t)
Display
Description Action
BLUE indicates default setting
Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
Move/RF/Stow Safe Page From Ready Page: Move [SAFE/ANY!] RF SAFE
(Page 3.5) Main 2x EL 3.00 Stow EN
Arrow 5x
Move [SAFE] prevents azimuth axis motion + or – then Enter Move [SAFE/ANY!] RF SAFE !! WARNING !!
including jog commands below this pre-set EL 3.00 Stow EN
limit to prevent accidental mechanical “Stow EN” is NOT a failsafe
interference. Move [ANY] will disable the solution. Ultimate
SAFE mode. responsibility falls upon the
RF [SAFE] will inhibit LNB power thereby + or – then Enter Move SAFE RF [SAFE/ANY!] user to ensure proper
inhibiting transmit if a motion command is EL 3.00 Stow EN antenna positioning prior to
given to the antenna via the controller. RF movement of the vehicle.
[ANY] will disable the SAFE mode.
For ultimate safety, users
EL [X.XX] sets the low elevation angle for + or – then Enter Move SAFE RF SAFE should install an ignition
Move SAFE. Adjust with + or – until the [EL 3.00/x.xx] Stow EN
desired value is reached. lock-out prohibiting
movement of the vehicle if
Stow [En] is the auto stow feature designed to + or – then Enter Move SAFE RF SAFE the antenna is deployed.
stow the antenna in the event the GPS EL 3.00 Stow [EN/dis] TracStar assumes no
systems detects more than 10 meters of
responsibility for damage
movement. This is a safety feature if the
antenna is roof mounted and the vehicle to the vehicle or antenna
begins to move with the antenna up. Stow
IMPORTANT for failure to stow the
[DIS] will disable the safe feature. antenna.

54
 3.6 Azimuth Stow/External Switch

AZ [Stow 0.25]
Ext EN

AZ [Stow 0.25]
PowerUp
Please
Ext EN
Wait

Monitor Loading
Check
Please
Please
Wait
1.0
Ready Page
 The AZIMUTH STOW setting provides
the offset for the angular distance from
Wait

the azimuth reference switch to the

2.0 desired azimuth stow position.
User Setup

 The Enable/Disable setting enables or

3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
3.4 3.5 disables the optional start/stow switch
that is located on the antenna.
Modem/ Move//RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna Safe

3.6 3.7 3.8

Az Stow Geograph-ical LNB
Area Gain
3.6
Az Stow
4.0
Diagnostic

55
 3.6 Azimuth Stow Setting

Display
Description Action
BLUE indicates default setting
Set Code (enables editing) From READY READY
(Page 3.0) page TECH SETUP
Main 2x Tech Setup CODE 13
+ to code 13, READY
Enter
Main 2x
Azimuth Stow / External Switch Page From Ready Page: AZ [Stow 0.25]
(Page 3.6) Main 2x Ext EN
Arrow 6x
The azimuth stow setting determines the + or – then Enter AZ [Stow 0.25]
offset for the angular distance from the Ext EN
azimuth axis reference switch to the desired
azimuth stow position. + or – will change the
angle. This is set in the factory.

Ext EN indicates whether the pedestal + or – then Enter AZ Stow 0.25

start/stow switch is enabled or disabled. Press Ext [EN/dis]
+ or – to change the selection, then Enter.

Az STOW is set at the factory and should not be adjusted except

under guidance of factory personnel. Damage to the antenna
IMPORTANT
may result from improper setting and may void warranty.

56
 3.7 USAdvb
[usadvb] LO 10.75
Fb L 11.2 / H 11.7
[usadvb] LO 10.75
Fb L 11.2/H 11.7

The LNB Setup page allows the user to:

PowerUp
Please
Wait
 Select the region of the world that
the antenna is located in
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
 Input the local oscillator frequency
of the LNB in use
2.0
User Setup  Input the receive frequency band
corresponding to the frequency
band and LNB in use.
3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move//RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
NOTE: These are the frequencies that are
Antenna Safe

used during the antenna scan.

3.6 3.7 3.8
Az Stow USAdvb LNB
(Geographical

LNB BANDS
Area) Gain

3.7
USAdvb
4.0 (Geographical Ku Band
GHz
Diagnostic
Area)
LO C 11.2 – 11.7

MID A 11.7 – 12.2

HIGH B 12.2 – 12.7

57
 3.7 USAdvb

Display
Description Action
BLUE indicates default setting
Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
LNB Setup Page From Ready Page: [USAdvb] LO 10.75
(Page 3.7) Main 2x Fb L 11.2/H 11.7
Arrow 7x

The antenna must be set to USA, USAdvb, Mid + or - then Enter [USAdvb] LO 10.75
East or Europe. Press + to edit then Enter. Fb L 11.2/H 11.7

USAdvb is the preferred setting in the USA,

due to the type of satellite typically used as a
reference. Mid EAST and EUROPE have the
same internal software functions, either will
IMPORTANT
work in either location.
Set the LNB Local Oscillator frequency using + + or – then Enter Mid East [LO 10.75]
or -, then Enter Fb L 11.2/H 11.7

Set the low end of the frequency band in use + or – then Enter Mid East LO 10.75
with + or -, then Enter. Fb [L 11.2]/H 11.7

Set the high end of the frequency band in use + or – then Enter Mid East LO 10.75
with + or - ,then Enter Fb L 11.2/[H 11.7]

58
 3.8 LNB GAIN
LNB [GAIN 100]
Offset 0 XXX

LNB [GAIN 100]

Offset 0 XXX

PowerUp
Please
Wait

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
The LNB Gain page allows the user to:

2.0  Adjust the gain of the LNB as

seen by the antenna controller’s
User Setup

built in signal strength

3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
3.4 3.5 measurement (SS).
Modem/ Move//RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor

Enter a LNB noise offset as seen

Antenna Safe

by the antenna controllers built
3.6
Az Stow
3.7
Geograph-ical
3.8
LNB
in signal strength measurement
Area
3.8
Gain
(SS).
LNB Gain
4.0
Diagnostic

59
 3.8 LNB GAIN

Display
Description Action
BLUE indicates default setting
Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY
(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
LNB GAIN Page From Ready Page: LNB [GAIN 100]
(Page 3.8) Main 2x Offset 0 XXX
Arrow 8x
The user may wish to adjust the LNB gain as + or – then Enter LNB [GAIN 100]
measured by the built in tuner: Offset 0 XXX
Gain = 100, nominal setting
Gain = 50, ½ of nominal gain
Gain = 200, double the nominal gain
When adjusting the gain, monitor the signal
strength number in the lower right.
Increasing the gain will increase the signal
level.
The user may wish to adjust the LNB offset as + or – then Enter LNB GAIN 100
measured by the built in tuner. [Offset 0 ] XXX
Adjust the offset when the antenna is pointed
at a cold sky. Adjusting the offset should
minimize the signal strength number when the
antenna is looking at cold sky.

60
 4.0 DIAGNOSTICS PAGE
DIAG NoLOG 
St XX ss XX yyy

DIAG No LOG ==>

St XX ssXX YYY

PowerUp
Please

 The Diagnostics section includes

Wait

TracStar Display Layout information on antenna pointing

Monitor
Check
Loading
Please 1.0
1.1
Set Ref
1.2
Set Data 1.3 1.4 angles, level sensor readings, GPS
data and the ability to set
Please Wait Ready Page GPS Compass
Wait Satellite Satellite

correction factors for the three

2.0
User Setup
2.1
Jog Page
2.2
Satellite
2.3
Rs
2.4
Peak/Ref
2.5 axes.
Parameter LST

 “No LOG” and “LOG try” are

messages unique to Idirect Series
3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna Safe

Modems requiring a log-in process.

3.7 3.8
 St XX indicates the tracking state
3.6
Geographical LNB
Az Stow
Area Gain

of the antenna.
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

4.0 Diagnostic Axis Angles Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles

 ssXX composite signal strength.
Diagnostics
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
4.K
SFE
 YYY is tuned signal strength.
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

61
 4.A Axis Angles
DIAG no RX 
St XX ss XX YYY A 246.00 E 28.70
Ap 44.6 Ep 27.77

 The DIAGNOSTICS A page indicates

PowerUp
Please
Wait
the azimuth and elevation angles of
the antenna.
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait
 The top row shows the antenna Az
and El angles relative to the earth
2.0
User Setup (azimuth only valid after lock on)

 The second row Ap and Ep indicate

3.0
Tech Setup the Az and El angle relative to the
pedestal coordinates, i.e., the
azimuth stow angle is zero degrees.
El is only valid above –10 degrees.

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

4.A
Diagnostic Axis Angles MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles

Axis
Angles 4.F
Position Data
4.G
GPS Data
4.H
Zero Resets
4.I
Offsets
4.J
Scan Width
4.K
SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

62
 4.B B Page

PowerUp
Please
Wait
B 11.78
B 11.78
PL XX. XX PL XX.XX
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
User Setup
The DIAGNOSTICS B page displays:

3.0
Tech Setup
 The polarization angle of the
antenna
 The Signal / Noise Ratio for
DirectPoint Modems

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

4.B POL
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles

idSNR
4.F Pol GPS4.GData 4.H
Zero Resets
4.I
Offsets
4.J
Scan Width
4.K
SFE / SFR
Position Data

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

63
 4.C C Page

PowerUp
Please
Wait
Communications
Communications
From modem - NONE from modem-NONE
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
User Setup
The DIAGNOSTICS C page displays
modem messages when connected
3.0
to modems capable of two-way
Tech Setup
communication with the TracStar
controller only.

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

4.C
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

Modem
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

64
 4.D Scan Hits

D 2125082 0 0 0 2125082 0000000

0 0 0 0
0000000 0000000

PowerUp
Please
Wait

 The DIAGNOSTICS D page indicates

Monitor
Check
Loading
Please
satellites that were “seen” during the
1.0
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
acquisition and alignment of the antenna.

 Each of the four groups of seven digits is

2.0
User Setup as follows:
 1st - 3 digits - azimuth angle
(example 212)
3.0

 Next two digits - elevation angle

Tech Setup

(example 50)
 Last two digits signal – strength
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
(example 82)
4.D
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

Scan Hits
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

65
 4.E Tilt Angles
Eba -.8 Afx 0.3
Rga 1.4 Rfx 2.2

Eba 0.8 Afx 0.3 Elv 4.0 Afx1.7

Rba 1.4 Rfx 2.2
PowerUp
Rlv 1.5 Rfx 1.4
Please
Wait

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
The values on the DIAGNOTICS E
Page are the pedestal base tilt angles
as measured by the tilt sensor.
2.0
User Setup
 Eba = elevation base angle
 Rba = roll base angle
3.0
Tech Setup  Afx = azimuth adjustment due
to base tilt
 Rfx = pol adjustment due to
base tile
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR
POL
MODEM Scan Hits
4.E Tilt Angles  Elv = raw (unfiltered) el base
Tilt Angles angle reading
 Rlv = raw (unfiltered) roll level
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

reading

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

66
 4.F Axis Position Transducer Readout

FpotRead Ar15467
PowerUp
Please
Wait FpotRead Ar 15467 Er 13364 Rr11517
Fr 13364 Rr 11517
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
The DIAGNOTICS F page is the
analog position transducer
User Setup

reading from the azimuth and

3.0
Tech Setup
elevation axis.
 Ar = azimuth reading
 Er = elevation reading
 Rr = POL reading on
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
antennas with motorized
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR
POL
MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
feeds
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

4.F
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

Position
Data
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

67
 4.G GPS Data

PowerUp
GPSok LAT 28.56
Please
GPSok LAT 28.56
S108 Long 81.41
Wait

S108 Long 81.41

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 The DIAGNOTICS G page provides

the GPS data as follows:
2.0

GPSok indicates the GPS signal is

User Setup

acquired
3.0
Tech Setup  LAT 28.56 indicates the current
latitude of the antenna.
 GVelocity indicates a change of
antenna movement/location
 MagD 5.10 indicates the magnetic
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
deviation
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles

 S108 - Digit (placeholders shown)

POL

 1 - indicates if the unit has ever

4.F
Position Data
4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
received GPS lock
4.G
GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

 0 - indicates the unit has not

GPS Data received GPS on this power up
1 – indicates the unit has
4.L
azEr
4.M
elEr
4.N
plEr
4.O
Az>EncSF
4.P
Az>psf
4.Q
El>EncSF
received GPS on this power up
 8 – number of GPS satellites
currently being received
 Long 81.41 gives the longitude
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt
position of the antenna.

68
 4.H Axis Zero Offsets

PowerUp
Please
Wait HsetZero [Ac12794]
Ec 15180 Rc 13698
HsetZero [Ac12794]
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please
Wait
Wait Ready Page
Ec15180 Rc13698

2.0
User Setup
 DO NOT CHANGE without
assistance from factory
3.0
personnel
Tech Setup

 The DIAGNOTICS H page

allows the user to set the
center value for each of the
transducers as seen on the F
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
page.
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

 Ac is the azimuth center value

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
used to set azimuth 0 degree
angle (stow position).
Position Data
4.H
GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

Zero Reset
 Ec is the elevation center value
4.L
azEr
4.M
elEr
4.N
plEr
4.O
Az>EncSF
4.P
Az>psf
4.Q
El>EncSF used to set elevation 45 degree
angle.

4.R
El>psf
4.S
Pl>EncSF
4.T
Pl>psf
4.U
Axis  Rc used on antennas with
Base TIlt
motorized feed system

69
 4.I Axis Offsets

PowerUp
I[co -3.5] Eo -.28
Please
I[co -3.5] Eo -.28
Paz -.38 Po 0.00
Wait

Paz -0.38 Po 0.00

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 The DIAGNOTICS I page

2.0
User Setup
allows the user to view and
set offsets in degrees for
each axis.
3.0
Tech Setup  Co is the compass offset,
this correction is self
learning and updates itself
on each acquisition.

 Eo is the elevation offset

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E after each acquisition.
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

 Paz is the boresight offset

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
for the RF beam.
Position Data
4.I
GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

Offsets  PO is the polarization

adjustment for peaking co/x
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q pol adjustments
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

70
 4.I Axis Offsets (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
Axis Zero Offsets Page From Ready Page: I [co -3.5] Eo -.28
(Page 4.9) Main 3x Paz -.30 Po 0.00
Arrow 9x
Co is the compass offset and updates Enter I [co -3.5] Eo -.28
automatically after each acquisition. The user Paz -.30 Po 0.00
should not change this value.

Paz is the boresite offset for the RF beam. Enter I co -3.5 Eo -.28
This value is set in test and should not be [Paz -.30] Po 0.00
changed by the user.
Po is an offset for the polarization axis. An + or – then Enter I co -3.5 Eo -.28
offset can be permanently input by the user if Paz -.30 [Po 0.00]
necessary. Code 13 allows for up to 8 degrees
of offset. If offset requires more than 8
degrees of adjustment, contact Tech Support

71
 4.J Azimuth Scan Width

PowerUp
J sw 40
Please
Wait J sw 40
pmz -3.75 c 0.00
Pmz -3.75 c0.00
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance
User Setup
from factory personnel

 The Diagnostics J page allows the

3.0
Tech Setup user to set the width of the azimuth
scan during the initial reference
satellite acquisition.
 The default value is 40.0 degrees.
 The max value is 100 degrees
4.0
Diagnostic
4.A
Axis Angles
4.B
idSNR
4.C
MODEM
4.D
Scan Hits
4.E
Tilt Angles
 The min value is 10 degrees.
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data
4.J
GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

Scan Width
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

72
 4.J Azimuth Scan Width (con’t)

Description Action Display

Set Code (enables editing) From READY page READY

(Page 3.0) Main 2x TECH SETUP
+ to code 13, Tech Setup CODE 13
Enter
Main 2x
Azimuth Scan Width Page From Ready Page: [Sw 40.00]
(Page 4.10) Main 3x pmz -3.75
Arrow 10x

The user can adjust the azimuth scan width + or – then Enter [Sw 40.00]
from 10 to 100 degrees. 40 is the default. pmz -3.75

73
 4.K SFE SFR

K sfe1220 sfr1220
PowerUp
Please
Wait K sfe 1220 sfr 1220
Tun A magc=1600
Tun A agc=360

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 These values are the base

2.0
User Setup
angle level span calibrations
for the e (elevation) and r
(roll) tilt.
3.0
Tech Setup
 Items CANNOT be edited from
the ACU.

 Tun indicates Tuner ‘A’ or ‘B’

style is installed in the system.
4.0
Diagnostic
4.A
Axis Angles
4.B
idSNR
4.C
MODEM
4.D
Scan Hits
4.E
Tilt Angles  AGC of internal tuner.
POL

 MAGC – additional gain boost

4.F
Position Data
4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K
during acquisition on smaller
4.K
GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

pedestals .
SFE SFR
4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q
 With Tun B – SNR Lock word is
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF
unavailable.

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

74
 4.L Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
LazEr 0.00 D 0
Please
Wait L azEr 0.00 D0
C -1 401296
C -1 401296
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0  Internal Readings from azimuth axis.

User Setup

 Perform manual jog of the azimuth axis

when “RUN” is ‘on’ and +/- buttons are
3.0 depressed.
Tech Setup

 Er – Servo Position Error

 D – DAC Value +/- 120
 C – Current Value +/- 100
 E – Encoder Counts
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

4.L azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

azEr
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

75
 4.M Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
MelEr 0.00 D 0
Please
Wait M elEr 0.00 D 0
C -1 E81424
C -1 E 81424
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0  Internal Readings from elevation axis.

User Setup

 Perform manual jog of the azimuth axis

when “RUN” is ‘on’ and +/- buttons are
3.0 depressed.
Tech Setup

 Er – Servo Position Error

 D – DAC Value +/- 120
 C – Current Value +/- 100
 E – Encoder Counts
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

4.M
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

elEr
4.R 4.8 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

76
 4.N Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
NplEr 0.00 D 0
Please
N plEr 0.00 D 0
C -1 E165542
Wait

C -1 E 165542
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0  Internal Readings from pole axis.

User Setup

 Perform manual jog of the azimuth axis

when “RUN” is ‘on’ and +/- buttons are
3.0 depressed.
Tech Setup

 Er – Servo Position Error

 D – DAC Value +/- 120
 C – Current Value +/- 100
 E – Encoder Counts
4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E
Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

4.N
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

plEr
4.R 4.8 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

77
 4.O Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
O AZ>EncSf 2468
Please
Wait O AZ>EncSf 2468
Kp 50 Ki 120
Kp 50 Ki 120

Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
User Setup
 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance
from factory personnel
 Azimuth Encode Scale Factor
3.0

 Setup Readings for Azimuth Axis

Tech Setup

 Kp and Ki are servo loop data

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr
4.OAz>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

Az>EncSF
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

78
 4.P Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
P AZ>Psf 1800
Please
Wait P AZ > Psf 1800
BL 50 VF 100
BL 50 VF 100
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
User Setup
 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance
from factory personnel
Azimuth Pot Scale Factor
3.0
Tech Setup  Additional Setup Readings for Azimuth
Axis
 BL and VF are servo parameters

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF
4.O Az>psf El>EncSF

Az>Psf
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

79
 4.Q Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
Q EL>EncSf 1252
Please
Wait Q EL > EncSf 1252
Kp 30 Ki 25
Kp 30 Ki 25
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance
User Setup
from factory personnel
Elevation Encode Scale Factor
3.0  Setup Readings for Elevation Axis
Tech Setup

 Kp and Ki are servo loop data

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

4.Q
azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

Pl>EncSF
4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

80
 4.R Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
R EL>Psf 987
Please
Wait R EL > Psff 987
BL 50 VF 60
BL 50 VF 50
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

2.0
 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance
User Setup
from factory personnel
Elevation Pot Scale Factor
3.0  Additional Setup Readings for
elevation axis
Tech Setup

 BL and VF are servo parameters

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

4.R
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

EL>psf

81
 4.S Axis Diagnostics

S PL>EncSf -409
PowerUp
Please
Wait S PL > EncSf -409
Kp 50 Ki 50
Kp 50 Ki 50
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance

2.0
User Setup
from factory personnel
Pole Encode Scale Factor
 Setup readings for Pole axis
3.0
Tech Setup
 Kp and Ki are servo loop data

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.8 4.T 4.U

4.S
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

PL>EncSf

82
 4.T Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
T PL>Psf 2358
Please
Wait T PL > Psf 2358
P1 10 Mz 0
P1 10 Mz 0
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 DO NOT CHANGE without assistance

2.0
User Setup
from factory personnel
Pole Pot Scale Factor
 Additional setup readings for pole
axis
3.0
Tech Setup

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.8 4.T 4.U

4.T
El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Axis
Base TIlt

PL>Psf

83
 4.U Axis Diagnostics

PowerUp
U 0 0 0
Please
Wait U 0 0 0
t0 0 0 0
T0 0 0 0
Monitor Loading
Check Please 1.0
Please Wait Ready Page
Wait

 DO NOT CHANGE without

2.0
User Setup
assistance from factory personnel

 Adjustable Base-Tilt threshold

3.0 setting “T”
Tech Setup

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles idSNR MODEM Scan Hits Tilt Angles
POL

4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J 4.K

Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width SFE / SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.8 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Base TIlt

4.U
Axis
Base Tilt
84
 TROUBLESHOOTING
 Antenna has no power. • Skyscan
Turn off Power. Check the power cord Skyscan can be engaged to find all available
on the ACU and or the rack mount control satellites in the sky. Refer to the operating manual
panel. The antenna receives its power for instruction on using Skyscan.
from one of these two respective
locations. Check pins 1 & 2 of the • Waiting Log On (iDirect - NetModem or
antenna end of the grey cable with the Infiniti Series)
black connectors as well. Reapply Power.
Restore Power. The TracStar controller ‘logs’ into the iDirect
modem, when iDirect modem is selected. Make
 OBSTRUCTIONS sure the DB9-RJ45 cable is in place between the
Ensure there is a clear unobstructed view controller and the modem, as this serves as the
towards the equator relative to the communication link. If communication still fails,
antenna’s position. set modem to NONE to allow antenna to lock onto
satellite.
• Antenna Not Responding
When using the handheld controller,
ensure the RJ11 (phone cord) connection
is properly seated in the ACU and the
handheld device. Ensure all cables are
securely connected.

85
 ERROR MESSAGES & RECOVERY

MINOR ERROR MESSAGES – FIELD REPAIRABLE

• COMPASS ERROR – Not seeing the compass, follow the manual compass procedure
• Stuck on GPS – Not detecting any GPS satellite – Follow the manual GPS procedure
•POWER UP PLEASE WAIT – No communications between the ACU and antenna. Check Interconnection cable from
modem to antenna controller
•NO REF SAT FOUND – Antenna can’t find a reference satellite. Verify the antenna hs clear exposure to the southern sky
•NO XPONDER SIGNAL – Antenna can’t find the data satellite. Verify the antenna has clear exposure to the southern sky
•BASE ANGLE LIMIT – Antenna base angle exceeds 8o. Level the antenna.
•BASET TILT ERROR – Antenna has moved after being deployed. Start a reacquisition
•SAT ERROR – No satellite information is programmed into the antenna. Reprogram satellite data.

MAJOR ERROR MESSAGES – POTENTIAL RECOVERY

•AZ MAJOR OT – Antenna has been driven beyond the azimuth electrical limit. Error may be recoverable by stowing
several times.
•AZ OVER TRAVEL – Antenna has reached the electrical limit. Error may be recoverable by stowing several times.
•PL MAJOR OT – Antenna has been driven beyond the polarization electrical limit. Error may be recoverable by stowing
several times.
•PL OVER TRAVEL – Antenna has reached the electrical limit. Error may be recoverable by stowing several times.
•EL OVER TRAVEL – Antenna has reached the electrical limit. Error may be recoverable by stowing several times.

MAJOR ERROR MESSAGES – FATAL ERRORS Possible Causes

Check antenna for movement blockage from trees, wifi masts, etc.
•POWER UP PLEASE WAIT – No communications between the ACU and the antenna.
a) circuit board failure b) control cable failure
•AZ FAULT – Not detecting any azimuth motor movement a) Motor Failure b) circuit board failure
•PL FAULT – Not detecting any polarization motor movement a) Motor Failure b) circuit board failure
•EL LOW LIMIT – Antenna is reporting low elevation fault a) bad sensor b) improper jogging
•EL FAULT – Not detecting any elevation motor movement a) Motor Failure b) circuit board failure

86
 Pedestal Preventative Maintenance
While the antenna pedestal is designed to be maintenance free, some General Check List
common practices and scheduled preventative maintenance will help 1. Any small chips on the reflector front surface should be cleaned,
ensure your satellite antenna experience is safe and trouble free. filled with aluminum-loaded car body filler, rubbed down, primed
Following the steps below will help ensure that your next deployment has and touched in with two-pack polyurethane paint.
no last-minute undiscovered problems that prevent operation. To 2. The feed horn should be checked for cracks or damage.
paraphrase a SEALs phrase (the 6P’s), “Proper Previous Planning Prevents
Poor Performance.” Azimuth:
3. Check for unusual noise in the azimuth bearing, azimuth gearbox,
After Each Use – check your antenna for physical damage from wind and azimuth motor
and / or trees and obstacles that may have been obstructing 4. Run in azimuth and check for unusual noise in azimuth motor
clearances, e.g., trees, buildings, power lines. Check for physical 5. Check position of azimuth drive cables on capstan at 0°# Az
debris, lodged in the antenna mechanisms. 6. Check drive cables for damage
7. Run both Az limits and observe cable tracking
Monthly – Deploy the antenna. Check for: 8. Check for excessive backlash in gearbox
a) The word LOCK to appear in the TracStar ACU display window 9. Inspect cable terminations
indicating it is locked onto a satellite 10. Inspect Az potentiometer
b) The ability to reach the internet with your computer systems /
onboard network Elevation:
c) Proper Operation of the primary VoIP channel for phone calls over 11. Check for unusual noise in elevation pivot bushings and elevation
the satellite link gearbox
12. Run in elevation and check for unusual noise in elevation motor
Stow the antenna. Check for: 13. Run up to limit
a) The word STOW to appear in the TracStar ACU display window 14. Check tracking of elevation drive cables
indicating it is securely stowed 15. Check drive cables for damage
b) Physical damage 16. Check for excessive backlash in gearbox
c) Proper operation of 3rd party external STOW sensors (vehicle
integrators / manufacturers) Polarization:
17. Check for unusual noise in polarization pivot bearings and
Semi-Annually – Deploy the antenna. Check for: polarization gearbox
a) All monthly items 18. Run in polarization and check for unusual noise in polarization
b) Abnormal cable wear or corrosion due to exposure to harsh motor
chemicals
c) Abnormal cable wear due to excessively high salt content (coastal
regions)
d) Loose cable connections
e) Loose hardware on the boom / feed assembly

87
 Pedestal
5: Description of System
TracStar750 / AvL Model 750 iMoVSAT three-axis positioner is used as an example. Note that fundamental
operation of all Roto-Lok positioners are identical relative to vehicle mount design. Minor changes exist in
Fly- Away systems relative to reflector removal, POL rotation/operation and the number of cases provided for
the antenna system proper. Note also the .75M antenna is the only antenna provided by either company that
does not have gas struts or stabilizer bars for positioning and stabilizing the antenna boom assembly.

General
The Model TracStar750 / iMoVSAT antenna system is an elevation over azimuth positioner featuring the simple,
rugged Roto-Lok® drive system that produces very low backlash, high stiffness, and high reliability. It is driven by a
low backlash gearbox with DC motors and all drive components are high-strength steel encased in lubricated-for-life
housings, resulting in the most reliable, no-maintenance system with the minimum of weight. The reflector is a 75 cm
equivalent Channel Master illuminated by a corrugated horn. The options for the placement of the transmitter vary
depending upon the size: A 1 - 4 watt BUC can be installed on the feed boom.

RF System
The offset reflector/feed system produces co-polarization patterns that easily meet the FCC Section 25.209
requirements beyond 1.72 degrees in the transmit band and 1.95 degrees in the receive band. It is also fully compliant
with the ITU Recommendation for international use.

Roto-Lok Drive System

The patented Roto-Lok drive system utilizes highly reliable aircraft control cables in a redundant configuration to
achieve a lightweight, very stiff drive system with zero backlash. This high-tech performance is achieved using low-
tech components - by simply wrapping the cable around the drive capstan several times before wrapping the larger
drive drum. This method results in a minimum free-length of cable. The load cable on the main drum is exponentially
reduced as it is wrapped around the drum. Therefore, the total elongation of the cable under load is minimized. The
Roto-Lok system has up to 10 times less backlash than that of comparable gear systems. The cables are pre-
tensioned and spring-loaded at the main drum attachment point, which eliminates backlash at installation and from any
unexpected cable stretch in the future.

88
 Pedestal
Secondary Drive System
The Az and El Roto-Loks are driven by a low backlash worm gear set with a 15:1 and 30:1 ratio respectively. The low
backlash of the worm gear drive is reduced further by the Roto-Lok drive ratio. This results in a lash equivalent of only .1°
in azimuth and .2° in elevation as seen by the reflector system. The gear sets are encased in a sealed housing allowing for
continuous lubrication in synthetic oil, maximizing gear efficiency and minimizing wear.
Motor Drives
Lightweight, reliable, servo-quality DC motors with integral gearbox are used for Az, El, and Pol drives. The motors are also
equipped with optical encoders that provide precise speed and positioning control, ensuring smooth operation when
peaking the antenna. The 24V DC design provides current-limiting torque control and will allow for vehicle battery operation
if necessary.
Controls
The antenna control system is produced by TracStar Systems and is integrated exclusively with the Roto-Lok pedestal
assembly. The controller includes a tunable receiver, GPS system, and flux-gate compass. The main portion of the
controller is located on the antenna positioner, placing it close to the optical encoders. The power supply and hand-held
controller are separate and can be placed up to 25 feet away without special hardware. Special control cables can be
obtained to place the power supply and hand-held up to 150 feet away from the antenna.
The TracStar controller was developed to achieve one-button, auto-acquisition of the satellite signal 100% of the time using
a proprietary method. The controller peaks the antenna on the data satellite with greater accuracy than a human can
achieve, thus assuring that there is no chance of adjacent satellite interference. Primary and secondary reference satellite
menus and data satellite menus are available for an untrained operator. Any data satellite can be selected or pre-
programmed by a trained operator. Semi-automatic modes are available in case of failure of GPS or a flux-gate to provide
acceptable manual input of case heading and/or latitude and longitude. An Auto-Select mode is the default factory setting
for reference satellite selection in the TracStar software (domestic CONUS use only). The TracStar control system will work
on any Ku Band satellite. Many antennas have options for C or Ka band solutions.
Construction
Except for the drive components and bearings, all components are aluminum, stainless steel or plastic to prevent rusting.
1 Roto-Lok is a registered trademark of Sagebrush Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

89
 Pedestal
6: General Deploy and Assembly Instructions

The TracStar750 / AvL Model 750 positioner has been fully tested with the TracStar controller prior to shipment. All
position feedback, limit sensing, limit switches, and motor speeds have been calibrated or set. The positioner needs only
to be deployed and the coax and control cables connected to the controller.

1. Model 750 shown in stowed position. (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1

2. Connect the coax cable first, making the appropriate electrical connections. (See Figure 2.)
Figure 2

90
 Pedestal
3. Press “+” on TracStar hand-held controller and hold for 3 seconds until unit begins deploying. (See Figure 3.)

READY: ( +UP -
Figure 3 DN)
IDLE SAT A @ 127

4. Figure 4 shows the unit fully deployed.

Figure 4

Controller Operating Instructions

1. To activate system, turn on power to the TracStar Indoor Unit (IDU). The display should read "Ready".
2. Press the "+" key to begin satellite acquisition.
3. To stow the antenna, press and hold the "-" key for 3 seconds. To insure that transmit is disabled, there is a 3-
second delay before the antenna begins to stow.
4. The user may stop the motion by pressing the Start/Stop, + or - key at any time, either during an acquisition while
locked (Display reads "Run") or during a stowing operation (Display reads "Stow").
Complete operating instructions can be found in the TracStar Controller Operating Instructions included in the
Index of this manual.

91
 Pedestal
7: Azimuth Positioning System
Azimuth Bearing
The azimuth platform sits on top of a ball bearing platform with a dynamic and static moment capacity of over four times the
worst-case wind-load specification. The assembly is surrounded by a double seal to protect the bearing platform, which is
permanently lubricated. This rests on the azimuth drum and the azimuth cables wrap around the drum and capstan.
Because of the excess capacity, low rpm and low number of cycles compared to the bearings B10 design life, no wear is
expected. No maintenance should be required over the life of the positioner.
Azimuth Gearbox
The azimuth gearbox is a low backlash worm gearbox. The worm gear drive isolates any backlash in the motor drive from
the system. In addition, since it is a 15:1 ratio, it will not back drive, thus eliminating any need for a brake on the drive train.
The motor drives the input worm via a quill/female hole and square key. The azimuth capstan is secured to the bore of the
output shaft with a square key. The gearbox contains synthetic oil. Because of the design capacity of the gearbox, low rpm
and comparative limited cycles experienced by the system, no wear or maintenance is expected.
Azimuth Motor
The azimuth drive motor is a servo quality 24DC motor with an integral 19.7:1 spur gear train. The motor armature rotates at
up to 4000 rpm causing a high-frequency noise that will vary, depending on the loading condition of the motor. An optical
encoder is mounted to the other end of the motor output shaft to provide real-time positional information to the TracStar
controller. The maximum gearbox output speed is 253 rpm. The output shaft is "D" shaped with a special adapter with a slot
for a square key. Since the low backlash worm gear drive isolates the backlash from the motor, any backlash between the
shaft adapter, square key, or motor gear train will never be seen by the reflector boresight. Any backlash at any of these
points is of no consequence to the system performance. No maintenance or wear of the elevation motor is expected.
Azimuth Roto-Lok Cable Drive
The patented azimuth Roto-Lok drive produces a drive system with zero backlash, high stiffness, no wear, no lubrication,
and maximum reliability. The system consists of three 1/16 9x17 stainless steel aircraft control cables, reverse-wrapped
twice around the capstan with solid connections on one end and high force, Belleville springs on the other end occurring at
the azimuth spring block. One cable has the capacity to withstand an 80 mph wind load. The additional cables are used to
provide increased stiffness and drive redundancy. If a cable becomes damaged during usage, merely cut off the cable
and continue to use the positioner. You can replace the cable at your maintenance facility whenever time permits.

92
 Pedestal
The cables are sized to last the life of the positioner. No replacement from wear is expected. The spring package at one end
will automatically compensate for any elongation of the cable. At installation, the Belleville springs are collapsed until no "air"
is seen between the springs. You should check this condition yearly to account for the slow settling of the cable strands. Use
a 3/8 box-end wrench to tighten the nut. Be sure not to over tighten.
Azimuth Position Feedback
The azimuth position feedback is produced by a 10-turn, 1K-ohm potentiometer driven by the output shaft of the worm
gearbox. In addition, an optical encoder is mounted to the output shaft on the motor and provides redundant feedback on
azimuth position. The encoder also provides precise redundant feedback on unit’s position relative to zero degrees starting
position. The potentiometer is mounted on an angle plate that is mounted to the azimuth gearbox. A gear mounted to the
potentiometer is driven by a pinion on the output shaft of the gearbox. The potentiometer is mechanically set at the one-half
travel position when the azimuth cable position is at zero degrees. The azimuth stow switch is a magnetic proximity switch
mounted in the az platform. The limits are controlled by using inputs from the potentiometer and optical encoder together
and are set in and controlled by the TracStar controller. The azimuth drive has the mechanical capability of ± 400° or ±200°
from stow position.

8: Elevation Positioning System

Elevation Pivot Assembly
The elevation pivot assembly consists of two elevation drum assemblies
pivoting between two clevis blades that house the high-tech,
no-lubrication required, plastic bushings. No wear or maintenance is expected.

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 Pedestal
Elevation Gearbox
The elevation gearbox is a low backlash worm gearbox. The worm gear drive isolates any backlash in the motor drive from
the system. In addition, since it is a 30:1 ratio, it will not back drive eliminating any need for a brake on the drive train. The
motor drives the input worm via a quill/female hole and square key. The dual elevation drive shafts are driven with a square
key. The elevation capstan is secured to the dual output shafts with a cap screw that clamps to the output shaft. The
gearbox contains synthetic oil. Because of the design capacity of the gearbox, low rpm and comparative limited cycles
experienced by the system, no wear or maintenance is expected.
Elevation Motor
The elevation drive motor is a 24V DC motor with integral spur gear train. The motor armature rotates at up to 4000 rpm
causing a high frequency noise that will vary depending on the loading condition of the motor. An optical encoder is
mounted to the other end of the motor output shaft to provide real time positional information to the TracStar controller. The
maximum output speed is 133 rpm. The output shaft is a standard keyed shaft. The output torque capacity of the motor is
rated for the operational wind load. Since the low backlash worm gear drive isolates the backlash from the motor, any
backlash between the square key and motor gear train will never be seen by the reflector boresight. Any backlash at any of
these points is of no consequence to the system performance. No maintenance or wear of the elevation motor is expected.
Elevation Roto-Lok Cable Drive
The patented azimuth Roto-Lok drive produces a drive system with zero backlash, high stiffness, no wear, no lubrication,
and maximum reliability. The system consists of eight 1/16 9x17 stainless steel aircraft control cables, reverse-wrapped
three times around the capstan with solid connections on one end and high force, Belleville springs on the other end
occurring at the elevation cable termination block.
Four cables have the capacity to withstand an 80 mph wind load. The additional cables are used to provide increased
stiffness and drive redundancy. If a cable becomes damaged during usage, merely cut off the cable and continue to
use the positioner. You can replace the cable at your maintenance facility whenever time permits.
The cables are sized to last the life of the positioner. No replacement from wear is expected. The springs package at one
end will automatically compensate for any elongation of the cable. At installation, the Belleville springs are collapsed until
no "air" is seen between the springs. You should check this condition yearly to monitor the slow settling of the cable
strands.

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 Pedestal
Elevation Position Feedback
The elevation position feedback is produced by an electronic clinometer and encoder mounted on the output shaft of the
motor. The clinometer has a resolution of 0.1 degrees with the accuracy/linearity of 1% of the 0-45° range and monotonic
in the 45-90° range. The clinometer is rated for an outdoor environment. The encoder also provides precise feedback on
the unit’s position during operation. The limits are controlled by using inputs from the clinometer and optical encoder
together and are set in and controlled by the TracStar controller. The clinometer is mounted on a bracket under the pol
gear cover. The clinometer is covered with an aluminum cover to protect it from the mechanical damage and provide
additional weather protection.

9: Polarization Feed and Drive Assembly

General
The feed assembly consists of the feed boom, feed housing, RF components and polarization drive. The feed boom is
pivoted at the bottom of the reflector. The feed assembly is mounted to the feed boom.
Polarization Drive
The polarization drive motor is a 24DC gear motor. It is attached to the polarization gearbox. Polarization setting is
accomplished by rotation of the reflector.
Polarization Gearbox
The azimuth gearbox is a worm gearbox. The worm gear drive isolates any backlash in the motor drive from the system.
In addition, since it is a 30:1 ratio, it will not back drive, thus eliminating any need for a brake on the drive train. The
gearbox contains synthetic oil. Because of the design capacity of the gearbox, low rpm, and comparative limited cycles
experienced by the system, no wear or maintenance is expected.
Polarization Roto-Lok Cable Drive
The patented azimuth Roto-Lok drive produces a drive system with zero backlash, high stiffness, no wear, no lubrication,
and maximum reliability. The system consists of two 1/16 9x17 stainless steel aircraft control cables, reverse-wrapped
twice around the capstan with solid connections on one end and high force, Belleville springs on the other end occurring
at the polarization spring block. One cable has the capacity to withstand an 80 mph wind load.

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 Pedestal
The additional cables are used to provide increased stiffness and drive redundancy. If a cable becomes damaged during
usage, merely cut off the cable and continue to use the positioner. You can replace the cable at your maintenance
facility whenever time permits.
The cables are sized to last the life of the positioner. No replacement from wear is expected. The springs package at one
end will automatically compensate for any elongation of the cable. At installation, the Belleville springs are collapsed until
no "air" is seen between the springs. You should check this condition yearly to monitor the slow settling of the cable
strands.
Polarization Position Feedback
The polarization position feedback is produced by the optical
encoder mounted on the output shaft on the motor. The
polarization stow and limit switch is mounted under the
polarization platform and is accessible under the pol cover. The
switch is fixed to a plate and is actuated by a rotation cam. The
limits are controlled by using inputs from switches and optical
encoder together and are set in and controlled by the TracStar
controller. Pol stow is achieved by activating the stow switch
mounted on the polarization cam. The polarization drive has the
mechanical capability of ±75° or ±95°.

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 Pedestal
10: Preventative Maintenance

General
The TracStar750 / AvL Model 750 iMoVSAT is constructed to require a minimum amount of regular maintenance.
The following 21-Point Check List should be undertaken on a regular basis and can be rectified in the field:
21 Point Check List
1. Any small chips on the reflector front surface should be cleaned, filled with aluminum-loaded car body filler, rubbed
down, primed and touched in with two-pack polyurethane paint.
2. The feed horn should be checked for cracks or damage.
Azimuth:
3. Check for unusual noise in the azimuth bearing, azimuth gearbox, and azimuth motor.
4. Run in azimuth and check for unusual noise in azimuth motor.
5. Check position of azimuth drive cables on capstan at 0°# Az.
6. Check drive cables for damage.
7. Run both Az limits and observe cable tracking.
8. Check for excessive backlash in gearbox.
9. Inspect cable terminations.
10. Inspect Az potentiometer.
Elevation:
11. Check for unusual noise in elevation pivot bushings and elevation gearbox.
12. Run in elevation and check for unusual noise in elevation motor.
13. Run up to limit.
14. Check tracking of elevation drive cables.
15. Check drive cables for damage.
16. Check for excessive backlash in gearbox.

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 Pedestal

Polarization:
17. Check for unusual noise in polarization pivot bearings and polarization gearbox.
18. Run in polarization and check for unusual noise in polarization motor.
19. Check tracking of polarization drive cables.
20. Check drive cables for damage.
21. Check for excessive backlash in gearbox.

Spare/Replacement Parts
Since no wear or maintenance is expected, only electrical parts are recommended as spares. These parts will not
fail from activity, but may fail from environmental exposure.

Optional:
Description Manufacturer Manufacturer’s Part #
Limit Switch Omron D2VW-5L2A-1HS
Potentiometer, 1k, 10T Spectrol 01F8239
Proximity Switch CDI PS811
Clinometer Spectron 02110002-000
Spare Drive Cable Kit AvL Technologies
Elevation Motor Pittman GM9234E521
Azimuth Motor Pittman GM9236E522
Polarization Motor Pittman GM8724J199-R1

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 Appendix A – Connection Directions

Modem and Voice Equipment Connection / Wiring Diagrams

NOTE: For VoIP, follow EMS with TracStar Gateway or System Integration connection
information for the general sense of connecting the Gateway to voice devices.

The TracStar gateway serves as:

• Router / DHCP Server
• Firewall
• Gateway
• WAN (4 Ports)
• LAN (4 Ports)
• QoS Manager for voice products (Quality of Service)
• FXS / FXO Portal (8 Ports total, Blocks of 4 FXS or FXO)

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 External Stow Monitoring – Vehicle Mounting

Every month, TracStar receives tech support calls due to antennas

striking an immobile object while the antenna is deployed and a
vehicle is moving. There is little an OEM can do to absolutely prevent
the occurrence, as the responsibility is on the operator of the vehicle
to safely maneuver same.

Refer to Section 3.5 in the manual – Move/RF_SAFE. This feature is

DISABLED by factory default. Enabling Move/RF_SAFE may help
but still can’t guarantee safe operation (see Section 3.5) if procedures
are not followed.

There are multiple methods of using external stow sensing to assist in

safely securing the antenna prior to moving a vehicle. The 1.2 Meter
Figure A antenna has a switch located in the stow bumper and the wiring for
the switch is secured to the IFL cable bulkhead on the antenna
pedestal, as shown in Figure A. This switch can be wired to a user
provided SPST relay circuit that would provide power to an
illumination device in the cab of the vehicle indicating the antenna is
still deployed. Alternately, the circuit could lockout the ignition or
prevent the transmission from engaging while the antenna is
deployed.

Alternately, an external stow switch, Figure B, could be engaged to

assist in safely sensing the antenna is stowed prior to moving a
vehicle and used in the same manor as previously mentioned.
Figure B TracStar assumes no liability or responsibility for physical damage to
antennas or from loss of service or operation due to physical
damage incurred while the antenna is deployed.

100
Gilat 360E Connection

101
SkyEdge Connection

102
Connexstar Cisco Bruno (Gilat)

103
EMS Technologies Connection

104
EMS with EdgeAccess Connection

105
iDirect Netmodem II Connection

106
Avaya G350 Switch Connection

107
EMS & TracStar Gateway

108
iDirect NetModem II

109
iDirect 3000 Series Connection

110
Linkstar Connection

111
Vipersat Connection

112
ViaSat Surf Beam Connection

113
System Integration Example

114
TracStar Control Cable

115
Console and Cross Over Cable Schema

116
 TracStar Controller Menu Grid
Powerup
Please Wait 1.2 & 1.8M Motor
Drive Feed ONLY
1.4 1.5
GPS Compass
1.3
POL

Monitor Loading 1.1 1.2

1.0 1.3 1.4
Check Ready Page Set Ref Set Data
Please Wait GPS Compass
Please Wait Satellite Satellite

2.2
2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.5
Satellite
User Setup Jog Page Ref Sat VS / Lock LST
Parameter
Factory Only

3.4 3.5
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3
Modem/ Move/RF
Tech Setup Set Option Set Test Level/Motor
Antenna / Polarity Safe

3.7 3.8
3.6
Geograph-ical LNB
Az Stow
Area Gain

4.0 4.A 4.B 4.C 4.D 4.E

Diagnostic Axis Angles Factory Modem Scan Hits Tilt Angles
Only

4.K
4.F 4.G 4.H 4.I 4.J
SFE
Position Data GPS Data Zero Resets Offsets Scan Width
SFR

4.L 4.M 4.N 4.O 4.P 4.Q

azEr elEr plEr Az>EncSF Az>psf El>EncSF

4.R 4.S 4.T 4.U

El>psf Pl>EncSF Pl>psf Factory Only

117
 Product Certifications

 FCC
“This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.”

 Industry Canada
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numérique del al
classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-o003 du Canada.


Declaration of conformity for all certifications on file. Available upon request.

118