Nucomm NewsCaster VT2 Microwave Transmitter User Manual

N

EWS

C

ASTER

VT2

ENG/OB Microwave Transmitter

User Manual

M17-0002-00A (rev 1.0)

(software version D3.xx)

Nucomm Inc.

101 Bilby Road

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

Tel: 908-852-3700 Fax: 908-813-0399 www.nucomm.com

NewsCaster VT2

Warranty

Equipment manufactured by Nucomm, Inc. is warranted to meet all customer specifications and to be free from defects in material and workmanship within a period of two years from date of shipment from Nucomm. The company’s liability under this warranty is limited to:

• Servicing or adjusting equipment.

• Replacement of defective parts.

Any equipment returned to the factory shall have the freight paid for by the buyer.

Equipment showing damage by misuse, abnormal conditions of operation, or attempts to repair by other than authorized service personal shall be excluded from this warranty.

Nucomm, Inc. shall in no event be responsible for incidental injury or property damage.

Since Nucomm, Inc. has no control over conditions of use, no warranty is made or implied as to suitability for the customer’s intended use, beyond such performance specifications as are made part of the purchase order. There are no warranties expressed or implied, except as stated herein. This limitation on warranties shall not be modified by verbal representations.

Proprietary & Disclaimer Notice

All information and graphic images herein contained within this manual are considered the sole property of Nucomm, Inc. and is issued in the strictest of confidence. This material may not be reproduced, stored, copied, or converted in any form, nor shall it be disclosed to others or used for manufacturing or any other purpose without the written permission of an authorized representative of Nucomm, Inc.

Nucomm, Inc. has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this material at the time of printing. However, as the specifications, equipment, and this manual are subject to change without notice, Nucomm, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this manual, or for any decisions based on its use. This manual is supplied for informational purposes only and should not be construed as a commitment by Nucomm, Inc.

© Copyrighted 2005, Nucomm, Inc., Hackettstown, New Jersey 08740

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Customer Service Information

Equipment Returns

Customer Service technicians at Nucomm are available to extend technical assistance to customers installing or operating Nucomm equipment. They will also assist customers with equipment troubleshooting. If this cannot be successfully accomplished by telephone, the equipment may be returned to the factory for repair. Loaner equipment is often available until Nucomm is able to ship repaired units. The Nucomm Customer

Service telephone number is (908) 852-3700.

Do not return any Nucomm product to the factory until you have received a return authorization (RA) number and shipping instructions from Nucomm.

When returning equipment to Nucomm, please enclose a letter containing the following:

•

•

•

RA number.

Model number.

•

•

Serial number.

Frequency operating range ( in the case of modules

A detailed description of the problem.

).

• Name of an engineer or technician we may contact in regards to this problem.

• Include a “ship to” and “bill to” address.

Ship to:

Nucomm, Inc.

101 Bilby Road

Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840

For International orders

In the case of units being shipped from outside the United States, Nucomm recommends the use of a courier such as Federal Express, UPS, etc, and that the goods be shipped

DOOR-TO-DOOR PRE-PAID. This will eliminate Customs costs, handling charges and delays. Enclose all the information above, plus a statement that the equipment was manufactured in the United States ( the latter is needed to expedite customs processing ).

Nucomm evaluates all returned units free of charge, and then confers with customers on corrective action.

Telephone Consultation

Should there be a need for emergency telephone consultation, please have your model number and serial number available for the Customer Service representative. Nucomm

Customer Service representatives are available to deal with all technical questions or difficulties.

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Replacement Modules

Troubleshooting to the component level is often not cost-effective and frequently impossible. Often the practical method of effecting field repairs is to substitute known good spare modules for suspect units. Nucomm maintains an inventory of replacement modules for its complete line of products.

Field Repair

Nucomm products are designed with easy access to components to facilitate service.

When troubleshooting the VT2 Transmitter, the user is cautioned to read all module descriptions in this manual. Some Nucomm modules cannot be serviced in the field.

Warnings are included in the circuit descriptions and on certain modules themselves, however the lack of a warning cannot be construed as a statement of safety. To prevent voiding of the Nucomm warranty that protects the equipment, please contact Nucomm before servicing or making any repairs.

Shipping Damage

Equipment shipped FOB Nucomm, Inc.; shall become the property of buyer upon delivery to and receipt from carrier. Any damage in shipment should be handled by the buyer directly with the carrier. Immediately request the carrier’s inspection upon evidence of damage in shipment.

Do not return any Nucomm product to the factory until a return authorization (RA) number has been given, along with shipping instructions, as discussed previously.

Contact Information

Nucomm Inc.

101 Bilby Road

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

Tel: 908-852-3700 Fax: 908-813-0399 www.Nucomm.com

For 24-hour emergency service, our Customer Service Manager can be contacted by pager at (908) 515-3709.

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CAUTION!

RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK. DO NOT REMOVE COVERS.

• Do not remove any covers.

• Refer servicing to qualified technicians only.

• Disconnect all power before servicing.

• Read and perform all instructions carefully. Failure to follow suggested instructions and guidelines may void all warranties.

FCC STATEMENT

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Part 74.637 (a) (2) of the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any unauthorized changes or modifications not expressly approved by

Nucomm, Inc. could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment, and invalidate the equipment’s warranty.

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Table of Contents

1. Description......................................................................................................11

2. Features...........................................................................................................13

3. SPECIFICATIONS AND Frequency Plans (USA)........................................19

3.1 Frequency Plans (USA) ..........................................................................23

4. Installation.......................................................................................................29

4.1 Unpacking & Inspection .........................................................................29

Checkout........................................................................29

4.4 Control Unit Mechanical Installation......................................................29

4.5 Control Unit Electrical Installation.........................................................31

4.6 RF Head Mechanical Install....................................................................34

4.7 Preparing Cables (including Nycoil)............................35

HEAD

4.9 Control Unit / RF HEAD Interconnect ...................................................45

5. Operation.........................................................................................................49

Panel

5.2 Controls and Indicators...........................................................................49

Menu......................................................................................52

5.3.2 Settings............................................................................................52

5.3.3 Monitoring/Alarms (Trouble Shooting)..........................................54

5.4 NEXTEL BAS RELOCATION SETTINGS..........................................56

5.4.1 Audio Sub-Carrier Frequency.........................................................56

5.4.2 Channel Bandwidth and Band Plan ................................................57

5.4.3 SWITCHOVER TO “POST-NEXTEL” SETTINGS.....................57

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Figures

Figure 1: NewsCaster VT2 System Diagram..........................................................11

Figure 2: NewsCaster VT2, Simple Block Diagram ..............................................13

Figure 3: Control Unit Block Diagram ...................................................................14

Figure 4: RF Head Block Diagram .........................................................................17

Figure 5: Control Unit Front Panel .........................................................................29

Figure 6: Control Unit Rear Panel (AC model) ......................................................30

Figure 7: Control Unit, Audio Connector ...............................................................31

Figure 8: Control Unit, RS-232 Connector.............................................................32

Figure 9: Control Unit, Joystick Connector............................................................32

Figure 10: Control Unit, 160v Pan/Tilt Pwr Connector..........................................33

Figure 11: Control Unit, 12v Pan/Tilt Pwr Connector............................................33

Figure 12: Mounting RF Head (and legacy HPA) using Mounting Plate...............34

Figure 13: Nycoil Block Diagram – Standard Coax ( or Triax ) Configuration.......35

Figure 14: Nycoil Block Diagram – Alternate Coax Configuration.......................35

Figure 15: Pan & Tilt Power ( 120VAC ) Interconnect Diagram..............................37

Figure 16: Pan & Tilt Power ( 12VDC ) Interconnect Diagram ...............................38

Figure 17: Pan & Tilt Motor Interconnect Cable....................................................39

Figure 18: NSI Quad Antenna Polarization Connections .......................................40

Figure 19: Radio Waves Quad Antenna Polarization Connections ........................41

Figure 20: Cable, RF Head to optional High Power Amplifier ..............................42

Figure 21: RF Head, Front-Panel (shown w/Pan & Tilt option).............................43

Figure 22: RF Head AUX Power Connector ..........................................................44

Figure 23: RF Head, Rear Panel .............................................................................44

Figure 24: RF Head, Rear Panel (legacy extended power).....................................44

Figure 25: High Power Amp, or “HPA” (no longer produced) ..............................45

Figure 26: NCVT2 Interconnects, Standard Power ................................................47

Figure 27: NCVT2 Interconnects, Extended Power Option (legacy) .....................47

Figure 28: Hole Pattern of RF Head (and legacy HPA) Base Plate........................48

Figure 29: NEWSCASTER VT2 Front Panel Controls and Indicators..................51

Figure 30: Menu Tree: “Monitoring & Alarms”.....................................................59

Figure 31: Menu Tree: “Settings”...........................................................................60

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Tables

Table 1: Frequency Plan (US), 2GHz 17MHz........................................................23

Table 2: Frequency Plan (US), 2GHz 12MHz........................................................24

Table 3: Frequency Plan (US), 7GHz .....................................................................25

Table 4: Frequency Plan (US), 12GHz ...................................................................26

Table 5: Frequency Plan (US), 13GHz ...................................................................27

Table 6: Recommended Nycoil cable lengths ........................................................35

Table 7: Typical IF cable configurations for the NewsCaster VT2........................36

Table 8: Summary of Nycoil cables and conductors needed..................................36

Table 9: AUX Power cable pinout..........................................................................36

Table 10: Pan & Tilt Power ( 120 VAC ) Connector Pin-outs ..................................37

Table 11: Pan & Tilt Power ( 12VDC ) Connector Pin-outs.....................................38

Table 12: Quickset QPT90 12VDC/120VAC Pan & Tilt Connector Pin-out ........39

Table 13: NSI Quad Antenna Polarization Connector Pin Out ..............................40

Table 14: Radio Waves Quad Antenna Polarization Connector Pin Out ...............41

Table 15: NewsCaster VT2 Alarms........................................................................58

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Document Revision

Date Modified

October 25, 2004 0.0

Revision Modified by

March 11, 2005

June 3, 2005

November 3,

2005

April 6, 2006

0.1

0.2

0.3

1.0

M Hardy

R Risch

M Hardy

M Hardy

Modification Detail

Additional formatting.

Additional text, graphics and formatting.

Additional Nycoil and related information, as well as figure numbering, references, Menu

Tree, and Frequency Stability.

Additional text, graphics and formatting. Added Menu Tree,

BAS instructions and drawings.

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1. DESCRIPTION

Nucomm’s NewsCaster VT2 series is a two box Digital and Analog ENG/OB Microwave

Transmitter System. The Mast Mounted

Microwave Transmitter is designed to operate in any specified band in the 1.00 to 15.5 GHz frequency range. Each unit is field programmable and configurable to meet a wide range of customer requirements.

The NewsCaster VT2 is a “split-box” transmitter system utilizing a rack-mounted

Control Unit (19” x 1RU, sometimes referred to as the “IDU”), and a Mast Mounted transmitter RF Head (or “ODU”). The two are connected with a single IF cable (RG-6 coax, or optional Triax), which carries the 70 MHz

IF, Control Data, and DC power. For cases where an existing IF cable in the Nycoil must be used, and cannot support the diplexing of the DC power, the NewsCaster VT2 can be fitted with an AUX Power output to send the power via separate conductors. (Refer to

Table 8.)

The NewsCaster VT2 is fully integrated with an Analog FM modulator, compliant superlow delay MPEG 2 Encoder and Multimode

Digital Modulator. Available modulations include FM ( NTSC / PAL ), COFDM, optional single carrier QAM, and optional VSB. As additional digital modulation formats become available, the VT2 can easily be software updated. This makes the VT2 extremely flexible while greatly reducing circuit complexity.

Description

Figure 1:

NewsCaster VT2 System Diagram

Highlighted features include six “Quick-Key” presets that allow single button operation, integrated dynamic color bars, and HD transport capability. Also, special menus have been included to ease the BAS relocation process.

Other available options for the NewsCaster

VT2 include Pan & Tilt control, a 10Watt

Digital High Power Amplifier, remote control and monitoring functionality, multi-band operation, etc.

This manual is written in a general form to cover all configurations and options for the

NewsCaster VT2 within the 1.00 to

15.5 GHz frequency range.

The convention of this manual is to show nonstandard configuration options with shaded text, as shown here.

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NewsCaster VT2 Features

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NewsCaster VT2 Features

2. FEATURES

Control Unit with Dynamic Color Bar/ID

ASI 4:2:2

MPEG2 Analog DVB-S or

FM Mod VSB or QAM

70 MHz

Encoder

Modulator

SDI Video

4 x Audio

2 switchable

To Digital

Note: Optional Lower Cost 4:2:0 Encoder Available

Coax Cable

RF Head

Up Converter and

Power Amplifier

RF Output

Figure 2: NewsCaster VT2, Simple Block Diagram

Nucomm’s NewsCaster VT2 Series Digital-

Analog ENG/OB microwave transmitter was designed with the 2GHz BAS Relocation in mind, and is optimized for ENG/OB truck applications. Nucomm has led the way in creating the most comprehensive ENG/OB transmitter available, with many state-of-theart features not found in any of the other competing models.

Control Unit Features :

Fully integrated features of the Control Unit

(as shown in Figure 3) include:

• Smart LCD Display for system control

• Six Quick-Key presets that allow single button configuration.

• Integrated dynamic color bars.

• Super low delay MPEG-2 using a

4:2:2 or 4:2:0 encoder.

• Multi-Mode modulator that includes

COFDM, Analog FM and optional

VSB, DVB-S or QAM modulation

• High data rate HD transport.

• Special menus to ease the BAS relocation process.

• Antenna polarization selection, CW,

CCW, H, V.

• Omni/Directional antenna selection

(Optional).

• Control of four Form C relay closures in the RF Head (Optional).

• Integrated Pan / Tilt Control (Optional)

• Joystick for Pan / Tilt (Optional)

Digital & Analog Input Signals:

The NEWSCASTER VT2 Control Unit accepts multiple input formats. These include:

• Composite video (NTSC & PAL).

• Digital video as SDI, with audio deembedding.

• ASI.

• Two analog audio (optionally four).

• One digital AES/EBU audio

(optionally four).

• 70 MHz.

The audio’s can be combined with the video via the MPEG-2 encoder or the FM subcarriers. A key feature of the Newscaster VT2 is that the SDI video can be converted internally to composite video and transmitted as FM analog modulation. The Audio and

Video signal flow is shown in Figure 3.

In Digital mode, the NewsCaster VT2 accepts video as SDI, ASI, or Composite, along with

LINE, Embedded, or AES audio(s), and digitally compresses the signals using 4:2:2 or

4:2:0 MPEG2 encoding. The encoded signal is then internally modulated with one of the user-selected formats: COFDM, or optional

QAM or VSB. (Refer to Figure 3).

For additional flexibility, an ASI Out port is provided, enabling the NewsCaster VT2 to be used as a standalone ASI Encoder

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Front Panel

Cable Transceiver

Communication to

RF Unit

ASI OUT

ASI IN

4 Analog Audio

2 AES /EBU Audio

SDI

Composite

AC

(optional DC )

Features

Future Encoder

Expansion

MPEG 2 Encoder

Multi- format

(COFDM

,

VSB QAM)

10.7 MHz Data

70MHz Diplexer

Digital FM Modulator

+48V

Coax to

RF Unit

Auxiliary +48V DC

Power to RF Unit

Pan and Tilt Power

PSU

(+12V, +45V)

Pan and Tilt

Controller/ PSU

(optional )

Figure 3: Control Unit Block Diagram

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NewsCaster VT2

In Analog mode, the NewsCaster VT2 accepts

SDI or Composite video, and LINE,

Embedded, or AES audio.

The NewsCaster VT2 can also accept externally modulated signals via the 70 MHz

Input Port.

Audio Sub-carriers:

The two standard, or four optional , synthesized audio sub-carriers are field programmable and feature individual source selection (OFF / LINE / TONE / AES) and gain control via the menu system or audio

“Quick-Key”. The sub-carrier frequencies, mode, and additional gain are front panel adjustable using the menu system.

Prime Power:

The standard Control Unit input voltage is 90 to 240 volts AC (40 to 60 Hz). Optionally, the system can be configured for DC ranging from

+11 to +32 VDC, or for both AC & DC operation in the ranges listed above. In all configurations, the system automatically adapts to the input voltage without requiring the user to change any jumpers, switches or settings. Appropriate line cords are provided.

Standby Mode:

The Standby Mode is accessed from the front panel under the grouping labeled “MODE”.

There are three options or functions that can be selected: “Normal”, STANDBY” and

V.PRES.STBY”. In the “NORMAL” mode, the NewsCaster VT2 amplifiers are powered and transmitting. In the “STANDBY” mode, the transmitter is powered on, but the RF output is muted, enabling the transmitter to be tuned safely without radiating off-frequency emissions. The NewsCaster VT2 will remain in “STANDBY” until on-frequency lock has been obtained. Switching from “STANDBY” to the “NORMAL” ( operating ) mode results in instantaneous on-frequency transmission.

Features

If the synthesizer has not attained lock when the Standby switch is switched to

“NORMAL”, the unit will remain in

STANDBY” until on-frequency lock has been obtained.

When the transmitter is in the Analog mode there is an additional “STANDBY” mode called “V.Pres. Sdtby” (Video Presence

Remote). When in this mode, the transmitter will be in the “Normal” transmitting mode as long as the video source is connected to the

Video or SDI input. When the video is removed, the transmitter will go to

“STANDBY” in five seconds. Reapplying the video will immediately turn the transmitter back ON. The Video Presence Remote

Standby mode enables the camera operator to remotely place the transmitter in standby or turn it ON.

Dynamic Color Bar Generator:

To activate the Dynamic Color Bar Generator, press the “TEST COL” button on the front panel of the Control Unit. The LED above the button will light. The color bar pattern is the

SMPTE color bar standard. In the middle of the pattern is a 16 character ID that can be programmed through the LCD display. The first character in the ID will blink to indicate that the microwave link is active. In a digital system if the decoder stops decoding, the picture will freeze and the operator would have know way of knowing this. By causing one of the ID characters to blink, one can quickly tell that the link is operating properly.

In addition to numbers and characters, several symbols are available for display in the ID.

These symbols include a helicopter, a Van, a camera, etc.

When the Dynamic Color Bar Generator is activated, a 1 kHz test tone is inputted to the active audio channels. The left channel will be a CW tone. The right channel will be a pulsed tone.

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Preset Keys:

Nucomm has designed six Preset Keys into the front panel of the Newscaster VT2. These keys are used to instantly recall previously programmed configuration parameters such as frequency, modulation format, analog or digital, video and audio input type, etc. To program a Preset Key, first set the Newscaster

VT2 to the desired operating configuration.

Then hold one of the six Preset Keys in until a confirmation message is displayed (roughly 10 seconds).

To recall the Preset, simply press appropriate key. The display will indicate the Newscaster

VT2 has been re-configured per the Preset.

Frequency Coverage:

Nucomm’s NewsCaster VT2 transmitters are available in single-, dual-, and tri-band configurations. This manual covers all the models in the NewsCaster VT2 series.

The NewsCaster VT2 series radios provide full coverage of the 2, 7 & 13GHz US frequency bands, and/or other bands as required internationally, from 1 to 15.5 GHz. The US frequency bands are given in Table 1 through

Table 5. Band and channel selections are made and clearly displayed via the front panel

LCD interface.

Antenna Operation:

The Newscaster VT2 can control a number of antenna functions, including:

Polarization switching

Directional-Omni antenna switching

Selection between RWI or NSI Antennas

Coax Cable Requirements:

The NEWSCASTER VT2 Control Unit and

RF Head are typically connected with a single

Coax or Triax cable, which carries the 70MHz

IF and the Control Data signals, and in a

Features typical system, the power to the RF Head, which is diplexed onto the center conductor of the cable for coax, or through the inner shield when Triax is used. The cable conductor must carry 2 to 3 amps of current at +48 volts. .The center conductor of Belden 1694A/RG 6U coax (or equivalent), and the inner shield of the Belden 8232A/RG59U triax are large enough to carry this current with a minimum of voltage drop.

When using video cable such as RG 58, or

Belden 1505/RG-59U, the voltage drop through the center conductor is too great to carry the diplexed +48volts. To support the use of these cables which may be existing in the Nycoil and must be used, Nucomm has provided an auxiliary power (“AUX Power”) connector that routes the power to external wires. Refer to Section 4.7 for details.

The standard coax cable required between the

Control Unit and the RF Head must have an impedance of 75 Ohms. The Newscaster will on occasion, be used to replace systems that use 50 Ohm RF or video type coax cable in an existing Nycoil. On special request, Nucomm can configure the Newscaster VT2 system to operate using these 50 Ohm cables. Again, depending on the type of coax cable used in the pre-existing Nycoil, the power to the RF

Head may require the use of the AUX Power option.

RF Head Features:

The rugged NewsCaster VT2 RF Head, as shown in Figure 4, includes:

• IF to RF Up-Converter

• RF Power Amplifier

• Low Noise Frequency Synthesizer

• Diplexer that splits the +48 volts, the

70 MHz and the Control Data.

• DC to DC Converter

• Optional Pan & Tilt Controller

• Optional Omni/Directional Antenna switch.

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• Optional Four Form C Relay contacts controlled from the Control Unit.

The RF Head components are housed in a weatherproof enclosure that mounts on the antenna pan and tilt housing, replacing the conventional power amplifier. This setup combines precise tuning of the transmitter frequency with exceptional output power. The

RF unit is equipped with type “N” connectors for the directional and optional

omnidirectional antenna(s).

Other Standard Features:

• Digitally synthesized microwave oscillator tuning.

Newscaster VT2 RF Head

Input from

Control Unit

Diplexer

70 MHz

901-I058-02

IF to RF

Up-Converter

Amplifier

Module

• RS232/RS485 Remote.

• RF Power Output Adjustments.

• Field Programmable RF and ASC settings.

Other Options:

• Remote Control Software allowing the

NewsCaster VT2 to be fully monitored and controlled from an IBM Compatible PC through a RS232C/RS485 port.

• High Power Amplifier ( 20 Watt Analog,

10 Watt Digital ).

• Mounting Adapter Plates enabling mounting of the RF Head and High Power

Amplifier to the Pan and Tilt.

Detector Module

LPF

Features

(Optional)

RF Output

To Directional

Antenna

To Omni

Antenna

48 V Control Data

ALC

DC to DC

Power Supply

Microprocessor

4 Relay

Closures

To Pan & Tilt

Pan & Tilt

Controller

(Optional)

Four Form C

Relays

(Optional)

Figure 4: RF Head Block Diagram

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NewsCaster VT2 Features

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

3. SPECIFICATIONS AND FREQUENCY PLANS (USA)

RF PERFORMANCE

Frequency Bands ( Front panel selectable )

Band 1: ..........................................................1.99 GHz – 2.50 GHz

Band 1 (optional): .........................................2.30 GHz – 2.70 GHz

Band 2: ..........................................................6.43 GHz – 7.12 GHz

Band 3: ...........................................................12.706 GHz – 13.250 GHz

(other plans available per user requirements)

Tuning step size: ...........................................250 kHz (US), 100 kHz (International)

70 MHz input: ...............................................-10 to 0 dBm ( 75 Ohms )

Frequency stability: .......................................+/- 5ppm (.0005%)

Power Output:

2 GHz band:

Standard: ...........................................12W Analog; 4W Digital

Optional: ..........................................10W Digital**

6/7 GHz band:

Standard: ...........................................5W Analog; 2W Digital

Optional: ...........................................10W Analog, 4 W Digital

Optional: ...........................................10W Digital**

Dual Band 2 + 7GHz:

Standard: ............................................2GHz: 12W Analog, 4W Digital

Standard: ............................................7GHz: 5W Analog, 2.5W Digital

Optional: ...........................................10W Analog; 2.5W Digital;

Optional: ............................................10W Digital**

13GHz Band

Standard: ...........................................1W Analog, 0.25W Digital

Optional: ...........................................3W Analog, 1.75W Digital

**Analog adjustable to FCC maximum EIRP ( max amp power 25W ); A separate RF Head is required for the 10 Watt digital configuration.

Standby mode:

Standby: ............................................No RF output

Normal: .............................................Instant on frequency transmission

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

NEWSCASTER VT2 Specifications (continued)

Modulation Modes

COFDM

Modulation Formats................................................COFDM; QPSK, 16QAM, 64 QAM

Code Rate: ..............................................................1/2, 2/3 3/4. 5/6, 7/8

Guard Interval: .......................................................1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4

Bandwidth: .............................................................6, 7 and 8 MHz

Analog

Analog FM:.............................................................2 field tunable sub-carriers (optional 4)

Modulation Deviation (field selectable): ...............3 MHz/volt or 4 MHz/volt

VSB

Modulation Formats................................................2VSB, 4VSB, 8VSB, 8TVSB

Video & Digital Input Performance :

Analog Video Mode:

Video:.............................................................525/625 lines NTSC/PAL field selectable

1V p-p for +/- 4 MHz deviation

1 V p-p for +/- 3 MHz deviation

( Video input sensitivity switchable )

Pre-emphasis or Flat: .................................Field selectable

Pre-emphasis: ............................................NTSC/PAL-B,G or M (field selectable)

Video Low-Pass-Filter (field selectable): ..3.9, 4.5, 4.75, 5.0 and 6.0MHz

Frequency Response: ................................0.5 dB ( 10 Hz to video filter selected )

Base-Band Response: ................................1.0 dB ( 10 Hz to 10 MHz )

Signal-to-noise ratio: .................................69 dB typical ( 65 dB minimum )

Differential Phase: ....................................+/- 1.0 degrees

Differential Gain: ......................................+/- 1.0 %

Digital Video Mode:

Composite Video:

1V p-p Maximum input

Frequency Response: ................................0.5 dB ( 10 Hz to 20 kHz )

Base-Band Response: ................................1.0 dB ( 10 Hz to 10 MHz )

Signal-to-noise ratio:.................................. 69 dB typical ( 65 dB minimum )

Differential Phase: ....................................+/- 0.5 degrees

Differential Gain: ......................................+/- 0.5 %

SDI and ASI...................................................0.80 Volts p-p

Digital and Analog Modes:

Input impedance: ...........................................75 Ohms

Return loss: ...................................................-26 dB ( 10 Hz to 5 MHz )

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

NEWSCASTER VT2 Specifications (continued)

Audio Performance:

Analog Audio Mode

Two channels: ................................................2 Analog, or

1 AES/EBU, SDI De-embedded

Four optional .................................................4 Analog, or

2 AES/EBU, SDI De-embedded

Sub-Carriers: selectable and field tunable from front

panel; Tunable in 5 kHz steps 4.8 to 9.0 MHz

Digital Audio Mode

Two channels: ...............................................2 Analog, or

1 AES/EBU, SDI De-embedded

Four optional .................................................4 Analog, or 2 AES/EBU, SDI De-embedded

Frequency Response: .....................................30 Hz to 20 kHz: 0.5 dB

Digital & Analog Audio Line Input :

US: ...........................................................+8 dBm, 600 Ohms for 75 kHz deviation

International: ............................................+12 dBm, 600 Ohms for 100 kHz deviation

Frequency Response:

30 Hz to 10 kHz: .......................................0.5 dB

10 kHz to 15 kHz: .....................................1.0 dB

Signal-to-noise:

Line audio: ................................................65 dB

Deviation: ......................................................75 kHz peak at 1 kHz ( 100 kHz for PAL )

Pre-emphasis: ................................................75 µs & 50 µs LCD selectable

Harmonic distortion:

Line audio: .................................................0.5% maximum ( typically 0.2 % )

Remote control:

..........................................RS-232 / RS-485

Power Requirements:

Input range: ...................................................100 to 260 VAC 50/60 Hz ( Optional DC: +11 to +32)

Power consumption: ......................................80 W typical ( 12 watt version )

10 Watt all Digital..........................................120 Watts

Environmental:

Temperature range:

Full specification (RF Head): ....................-30° to +60°C

Full specification (Control Unit): ..............-10° to +50°C

Storage: ......................................................-40° to +80°C

Humidity: .......................................................0 to 95% non-condensing

Altitude:

Operating: ...............................................................20,000ft ( 6,000 m )

Storage: ...................................................................50,000ft ( 15,000 m )

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

NEWSCASTER VT2 Specifications (continued)

Physical Characteristics:

Size:

Control Unit: .................................................19” (48.26cm) W, 1.75” (4.45cm) H, 16" (40.64cm

)D

RF Head (Standard Power): ..........................9.5” (24.13cm) W, 5” (12.7cm) H, 15” (38.1cm) L

RF Head (High Power): ................................TBD

Weight:

Control Unit: .................................................6 lbs (2.72kg)

RF Head (standard power): ...........................12 lbs (5.45kg)

RF Head (High Power): ................................TBD

Connectors:

Control Unit:

Video / SDI / DVB-ASI / 70MHz: ...............Type BNC-F

Audio: ...........................................................Removable Screw Terminal Strip

IF output to RF Head: ...................................TNC-F ( optional Triax)

Optional AUX Power out: ............................Terminal Strip

Remote Control (RS232 / RS485): ...............9 Pin D, Female

Remote Control (Ethernet): ...........................RJ-45

Summary Alarm:............................................Form C on Terminal Strip

Pan / Tilt Power (to RF Head) ......................8 Pin military style connector (see Sec 4 for cabling)

RF Head:

Optional AUX Power in: ..............................MIL-C-26482, 12 Pin

RF Output: .....................................................Type “N” female

Polarization ....................................................

Pan / Tilt Power (from Control Unit).............12 Pin military style connector (see Sec 4 for cabling)

Pan / Tilt Control (to Pan / Tilt).....................17 Pin military style connector (see Sec 4 for cabling)

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

3.1 FREQUENCY PLANS (USA)

The standard US frequency plans apply to all units sold into markets covered by the FCC.

Frequency plans for all systems sold into non-US markets are individualized to meet specific customer requirements and licensing restrictions, as specified at the time of purchase.

CHANNEL / FREQUENCY PLAN - CHART NO: 326

2 GHz (17 MHz)

(Frequency Range 1,994 MHz – 2,497 MHz)

Channel Offset

1 –

1 0

1

2

+

–

2 0

2 +

3 –

3 0

3

4

+

–

4 0

4 +

5 –

5 0

5

6

+

–

6 0

6 +

7 –

7 0

7

8

+

–

8 0

8 +

9 –

9 0

9

10

+

–

10 0

10 +

Receive Frequency MHz

2,063.25

2,067.50

2,071.75

2,080.25

2,084.50

2,088.75

2,097.25

2,101.50

2,105.75

2,454.25

2,458.50

2,462.75

1,994.75

1,999.00

2,003.75

2,012.25

2,016.50

2,020.75

2,029.25

2,033.50

2,037.75

2,046. 25

2,050.50

2,054.75

2,471.25

2,475.50

2,479.75

2,488.25

2,492.50

2.496.75m

Table 1: Frequency Plan (US), 2GHz 17MHz

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

CHANNEL / FREQUENCY PLAN - CHART NO: 326

2 GHz (12 MHz)

(Frequency Range 2,025 MHz – 2,496 MHz)

Channel Offset

1 –

1 0

1

2

+

–

2 0

2 +

3 –

3 0

3

4

+

–

4 0

4 +

5 –

5 0

5

6

+

–

6 0

6 +

7 –

7 0

7

8

+

–

8 0

8 +

9 –

9 0

9 +

10 –

10 0

10 +

Receive Frequency MHz

2,076.50

2,079.50

2,082.50

2,088.50

2,091.50

2,094.50

2,100.50

2,103.50

2,106.50

2,454.25

2,458.50

2,462.75

2,028.50

2,031.50

2,034.50

2,040.50

2,043.50

2,046.50

2,052.50

2,055.50

2,058.50

2,064.50

2,067.50

2,070.50

2,471.25

2,475.50

2,479.75

2,488.25

2,492.50

2,496.75

Table 2: Frequency Plan (US), 2GHz 12MHz

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

1 –

1 0

1

2

+

–

2 0

2 +

3 –

3 0

3

4

+

–

4 0

4 +

5 –

5 0

5

6

+

–

6 0

6 +

7 –

7 0

7

8

+

–

8 0

8 +

9 –

9 0

9

10

+

–

10 0

10 +

11 –

11 0

11

12

+

–

12 0

12 +

13 –

13 0

13

14

+

–

14 0

14 +

CHANNEL / FREQUENCY PLAN - CHART NO: 326

(Frequency Range 6,431 MHz – 7,119 MHz)

Channel Offset Receive Frequency MHz

7,081.25

7,087.50

7,093.75

7,106.25

7,112.50

7,118.75

6,431.25

6,437.50

6,443.75

6,456.25

6,462.50

6,468.75

6,481.25

6,487.50

6,493.75

6,506.25

6,512.50

6,518.75

6,981.25

6,987.50

6,993.75

7,006.25

7,012.50

7,018.75

7,031.25

7,037.50

7,043.75

7,056.25

7,062.50

7,068.75

6,881.25

6,887.50

6,893.75

6,906.25

6,912.50

6,918.75

6,931.25

6,937.50

6,943.75

6,956.25

6,962.50

6.993.75

Table 3: Frequency Plan (US), 7GHz

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

Channel Offset

1 -

1 0

1 +

1 ++

2 -

2 0

2 +

2 ++

3 -

3 0

3 +

3 ++

4 -

4 0

4 +

4 ++

5 -

5 0

5 +

5 ++

6 -

6 0

6 +

6 ++

7 -

7 0

7 +

7 ++

8 -

8 0

8 +

8 ++

9 -

9 0

9 +

9 ++

10 -

10 0

10 +

10 ++

CHANNEL / FREQUENCY PLAN - CHART NO: 10

(Frequency Range 12,706MHz - 12,950MHz)

Receive Frequency MHz

12,706.25

12,712.50

12,718.75

12,725.00

12,731.25

12,737.50

12,743.75

12,750.00

12,756.25

12,762.50

12,768.75

12,775.00

12,781.25

12,787.50

12,793.75

12,800.00

12,806.25

12,812.50

12,818.75

12,825.00

12,831.25

12,837.50

12,843.75

12,850.00

12,856.25

12,862.50

12,868.75

12,875.00

12,881.25

12,887.50

12,893.75

12,900.00

12,906.25

12,912.50

12,918.75

12,925.00

12,931.25

12,937.50

12,943.75

12,950.00

Table 4: Frequency Plan (US), 12GHz

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

CHANNEL / FREQUENCY PAN - CHART NO: 10

(Frequency Range 12,976MHz - 13,250MHz)

Channel Offset

1 -

1 0

1 +

1 ++

2 -

2 0

2 +

2 ++

3 -

3 0

3 +

3 ++

4 -

4 0

4 +

4 ++

5 -

5 0

5 +

5 ++

6 -

6 0

6 +

6 ++

7 -

7 0

7 +

7 ++

8 -

8 0

8 +

8 ++

11

11

11

11

12

12

12

12

9 -

9 0

9 +

9 ++

10 -

10 0

10

10

+

++

-

0

+

++

-

0

+

++

Table 5: Frequency Plan (US), 13GHz

Receive Frequency MHz

12,956.25

12,962.50

12,968.75

12,975.00

12,981.25

12,987.50

12,993.75

13,000.00

13,006.25

13,012.50

13,018.75

13,025.00

13,031.25

13,037.50

13,043.75

13,050.00

13,056.25

13,062.50

13,068.75

13,075.00

13,081.25

13,087.50

13,093.75

13,100.00

13,106.25

13,112.50

13,118.75

13,125.00

13,131.25

13,137.50

13,143.75

13,150.00

13,156.25

13,162.50

13,168.75

13,175.00

13,181.25

13,187.50

13,193.75

13,200.00

13,206.25

13,212.50

13,218.75

13,225.00

13,231.25

13,237.50

13,243.75

13,250.00

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NewsCaster VT2 Specifications & Frequency Plans

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NewsCaster VT2

4. INSTALLATION

4.1 UNPACKING & INSPECTION

Unpack the NewsCaster VT2 and visually inspect for possible damage to the LCD, connectors, and surface areas. If damage is found, a claim should be filed with the transportation carrier. Save the shipping container and packing material for reshipment, as needed.

4.2 PRE-INSTALLATION

CHECKOUT

Connect the NewsCaster VT2 IF output to the

RF Head via an appropriate IF cable (refer to

Table 7.) Connect the RF output of the RF

Head through a 30-watt, 30-dB attenuator to a spectrum analyzer and observe the output frequency on the analyzer display. Note that the frequency and level correspond directly to the LCD display on the front panel of the

VT2.

4.3 CABLES AND CONNECTORS

Detailed drawings and pinouts of the

NewsCaster VT2 cables and connectors are shown throughout this section. Please contact

Nucomm Customer Service if additional detail is required.

MECHANICAL INSTALLATION

The NewsCaster VT2 Control Unit is shipped pre-assembled. Mount the Control Unit in a standard 1RU E.I.A. rack space, using all 4 rack screws.

Installation

Figure 5: Control Unit Front Panel

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NewsCaster VT2

6

3

Installation

NOTE:

For detailed views of connectors and pin-outs, refer to Figures 10 thru 14 .

Depending on the configuration ordered, some units may not feature all of the connectors pictured here.

7

2 CAUTION – IF INTERFACE (7)

The IF Interface center conductor carries +48V to power the RF Head. Do not connect any instruments without use of a special test cable.

9

8A

5

10

8

1

2.5 Amp Fuse (120 VAC Units)

1.5 Amp Fuse (220-260 VAC Units)

Figure 6: Control Unit Rear Panel (AC model)

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NewsCaster VT2

4.5 CONTROL UNIT ELECTRICAL

INSTALLATION

Input Power

AC Power:

The NewsCaster VT2 is standard configured to operate on AC power ranging from 90 to 260 VAC at 40 to 60 Hz. Connect the provided AC line cord to an appropriate

AC power source. (Refer to Figure 6, Detail

1.) Alternate line cord connector types are available from Nucomm if needed.

DC Power: When configured for DC, the system can operate on DC power ranging from

+11 to +32 VDC. Connect the provided DC line cord between the lugs on the back of the unit to an appropriate DC power source. (–) for GND, and (+) for the +11 to +32VDC.

In all configurations, the system automatically adapts to the input voltage without requiring the user to change any jumpers, switches or settings.

Video

All video inputs/outputs are made via clearly marked 75 Ω BNC connectors. (Refer to

Figure 6, Detail 3 and Detail 4.) Simply connect a 75 Ω coaxial cable between the source and target equipment, and select the appropriate input type via the front panel interface. Refer to Section 5 for details.

Available video inputs and outputs are:

•

SDI

( input)

•

ASI IN

•

ASI OUT

(from the internal encoder)

•

Video (Input) – For use with

Composite and Baseband Video.

Installation

70 MHz Connectors

70 MHz input and output ports (75 Ω BNC) are provided.

The 70 MHz input port allows an externally modulated signal to be inputted to the system for RF transmission. To utilize this feature,

“External 70MHz” must be selected as an input via the front panel interface. Refer to

Section 5 for details.

The 70 MHz output port can be connected to a spectrum analyzer for monitoring, or to an external transmitter. (see Figure 6, Detail 2).

Note: When “External 70 MHz” input is selected, the 70 MHz out is a loopthrough only.

Pin # Function

G Ground

+ Positive

- Negative

Figure 7: Control Unit, Audio Connector

Audio

The Analog and Digital audio inputs are made via a strip terminal on the rear panel. (Refer to Figure 6, Detail 6 for connector location.)

The terminal marked "G" is for the ground lead, (-) is for the negative signal and (+) is for the positive. (Refer to Figure 7 for the connector detail.)

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NewsCaster VT2

The Digital AES/EBU inputs are made via the

Audio 1 & Audio 3 terminals. As such, only one Digital audio is available in the standard

“two audio” configuration.

IF Interface and AUX Power

When the IF Cable is suitable, a single TNC

( or optional Triax ) connector (Figure 6, Detail

7) is used to output the three signals that must pass between the Control Unit and the RF

Head:

(a) the modulated 70 MHz signal

(b) the inter-unit control data

(c) the +48VDC for the RF Head.

For cases when an existing non-conforming IF cable that cannot handle +48VDC must be used, the AUX Power option must be fitted and will provide the +48V on a separate connector (Figure 6, Detail 5) for transport to the RF Head via dedicated conductors.

Table 7 lists conforming cables and details the various configurations possible with and without the AUX Power option.

NOTE:

When AUX Power is configured, the

+48v still remains available at the IF

Interface port. This allows the user to upgrade to a conforming IF cable without requiring any changes to the unit.

Additional detailed information on the interconnection between the Control Unit and

RF Head is found in Sections 4.7 through 4.9.

Remote

The remote control port (Figure 6, Detail 8) allows for full control and monitoring of the

NewsCaster VT2. Both RS232 and RS485 are supported. Refer to Section 5.3.2 for settings.

Refer to Figure 8 for pin-out.

Installation

Figure 8: Control Unit, RS-232 Connector

Figure 9: Control Unit, Joystick Connector

Joystick

This optional 6-pin connector (Figure 6,

Detail 9) connects the optional joystick for

Pan & Tilt Motor control. (Refer to Figure 9 for a detailed view and the pin-outs.)

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NewsCaster VT2

Pan/Tilt Pwr

This optional connector is used to provide power to the Pan & Tilt Motor. See Figure 6,

Detail 10 for connector location on the

Control Unit. Detailed cabling info for

120VAC Pan & Tilt systems can be found in

Table 10 and Figure 15. Detailed cabling info for 12VDC Pan & Tilt systems is found in

Table 11 and Figure 16.

PAN / TILT

G A

H B

F

C

E

D

POWER

Pin # Function

A +160V

B +160V

E

USED

− 160V

F − 160V

G GND

Figure 10: Control Unit, 160v Pan/Tilt Pwr Connector

PAN / TILT

Installation

D

A

C

B

POWER

Pin # Function

A +12V

B +12V

C GND

D GND

Figure 11: Control Unit, 12v Pan/Tilt Pwr Connector

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

4.6 RF HEAD MECHANICAL

INSTALL

Nucomm’s mast mounted transmitter consists of a single RF head (containing the upconverter, P&T, PSU, Antenna Controls, and amplifier). There is also a legacy “extended power output” option which consisted of two mast mounted units, the RF Head (containing the up-converter, P&T, PSU and Antenna

Controls) and the High Power Amplifier (or

HPA). The legacy system is no longer manufactured.

In a typical installation of Nucomm's

NewsCaster VT2 , the RF Head (and HPA if configured) are mounted on the Pan & Tilt mechanism, which is attached to a pneumatic mast atop an ENG/OB van. (See Figure 12 for a typical mounting setup.)

To ease the mounting of the RF Head (and legacy HPA if configured) to the Pan & Tilt, mounting adapter plates are available. The plate is first mounted to the Pan & Tilt with

( 4 ) 1/4-20x.750" flat head screws, then the RF

Head (and legacy HPA if configured) are mounted to the adapter plate(s). For cases when the mounting adapter plate is not used, the hole pattern of the RF Head (and legacy

HPA) base plate has been provided (See

Figure 28).

Note: The RF Head(s) should be mounted so that the heat sink fins are vertical during operation.

Note: Attach Mounting Plate(s) to Pan & Tilt before attaching to RF Head (and/or legacy High Power Amplifier).

High Power Amp

(no longer being

Manufactured)

Mounting Plate

(713-K008-00B)

Pan & Tilt

Mounting Plate RF Head

Figure 12 : Mounting RF Head (and legacy HPA) using Mounting Plate

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

4.7 PREPARING THE INTERCONNECT CABLES (INCLUDING NYCOIL)

The NewsCaster VT2 is flexibly designed to use multiple IF cable types. The STANDARD cable types support diplexed +48VDC for transport to the RF Head. Belden 1694A (Coax) and Belden

8232A (Triax) are certified for this “one cable” configuration. Other common cables, such as

Belden 1505, may require the use of the AUX Power option. Refer to Table 7 for more details on using the cables types mentioned. Table 9 details the AUX Power cable.

Pan/Tilt

(optional)

RF Head

Coax RG-6/U or

Triax RG-59/U

(Standard)

Control

Unit

Figure 13: Nycoil Block Diagram – Standard Coax ( or Triax ) Configuration

Figure 14: Nycoil Block Diagram – Alternate Coax Configuration

Most broadcasters use a Nycoil cable conduit between the truck and the mast top. The required length of the Nycoil cable is twice the difference between the extended and nested mast height.

MAST MODEL NYCOIL LENGTH

5-20 30'

6-27 40'

7-30 50'

7-34 60'

7-42 70'

8.5-52 100'

9-58 100'

Table 6: Recommended Nycoil cable lengths

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

Config Type Control Unit Connector Cable Type

Standard

Coax

Standard

Triax

Alternate

Coax (requires

Aux Power

Option)

TNC Connector

Trompeter UPL40-41

Nucomm 511-F3003-000

Triax Connector

Trompeter PL375-13A

Nucomm 511-F3002-000

TNC Connector

Trompeter UPL40-41

Nucomm 511-F3003-000

Terminal Strip

Nucomm 514-E0003-04A

Belden 1694A RG-6U

(recommended)

Belden 8232A RG-59U

(recommended)

Belden 1505(e.g.) RG-59U

#20AWG x 3

Cable Use

• 70MHz IF

• Inter-Unit Data

• +48VDC Power

• 70MHz IF

• Inter-Unit Data

• +48VDC Power

• 70MHz IF

• Inter-Unit Data

• +48VDC Power

RF Head Connector

TNC Connector

Trompeter UPL40-41

Nucomm 511-F3003-000

Triax Connector

Trompeter PL375-13A

Nucomm 511-F3002-000

TNC Connector

Trompeter UPL40-41

Nucomm 511-F3003-000

15-pin connector

ITT Cannon: MS3116J14

Nucomm 512-F3012-015

Table 7: Typical IF cable configurations for the NewsCaster VT2

Table 8 is provided as a summary of the cables and conductors that are required for STANDARD and ALTERNATE configurations, with and without Pan and Tilt Control.

System Configuration Cable Usage

Number of

Conductors

Standard Coax or Triax

(no Pan & Tilt)

Control to RF Head

Interconnect

Wire Type / Size

Belden 1694A RG-6U (Coax) or

Belden 8232A RG-59U (Triax) n/a

Alternate Coax

(no Pan & Tilt)

Standard Coax or Triax

(with Pan & Tilt)

Alternate Coax

(with Pan & Tilt)

Control to RF Head

Interconnect

Aux Power Cable

Control to RF Head

Interconnect

Pan & Tilt Control

Control to RF Head

Interconnect

Aux Power Cable

Pan & Tilt Control

Belden 1505(e.g.) RG-59U (Coax)

#20 AWG

Belden 1694A RG-6U (Coax) or

Belden 8232A RG-59U (Triax)

#18 AWG

Belden 1505(e.g.) RG-59U (Coax)

#20 AWG

#18 AWG n/a

3 n/a

4 n/a

3

4

Table 8: Summary of Nycoil cables and conductors needed

Control Unit

“AUX Power” Function

Recommended

Wire Size

RF Head

“AUX DC POWER”

Table 9: AUX Power cable pinout

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

The following Tables and Figures are provided to assist in preparing the interconnect cables for the optional Pan & Tilt control.

Control Unit

“PAN/TILT POWER” Function

Recommended

Wire Size (AWG)

RF Head

“PAN/TILT PWR

FROM CONTROL”

E –160VAC* Brown E

F –160VAC* Black F

G

*The motor for the 120VAC Pan and Tilt actually requires 160VAC.

A

B

C

D

Table 10: Pan & Tilt Power ( 120 VAC ) Connector Pin-outs

Figure 15:

Pan & Tilt Power ( 120VAC ) Interconnect Diagram

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NewsCaster VT2

Control Unit

“PAN/TILT POWER”

Installation

Function

Recommended

Wire Size (AWG)

RF Head

“PAN/TILT PWR

FROM CONTROL”

No Connection

No Connection

No Connection

Not Used

Not Used

Not Used

Table 11: Pan & Tilt Power ( 12VDC ) Connector Pin-outs

C

D

G

Figure 16: Pan & Tilt Power ( 12VDC ) Interconnect Diagram

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

RF HEAD

“TO PAN/TILT” WIRE SIZE (AWG) MOTOR

(18 PIN) (17 PIN)

A N/C A

B Position Pot-Ref B #20 Orange/Black B

D

E

F

G

Position Pot-Ref A

AZ Left

Elev. Pot Wiper

Chassis Ground

#20 Black/White

#20 Red/White

#20 Green/White

#20 Blue/White

D

E

F

G

H Field

J Elev. Up

Orange

#20 Blue

H

J

Down K

L

M

AZ Right

Stow SW Up

#20 Red/Black

#20 Red

N Stow SW Down #20 Green

P Field Black

T AZ Pot Wiper #20 White

L

M

N

P

T

J2

Table 12: Quickset QPT90 12VDC/120VAC Pan & Tilt Connector Pin-out

CONNECTORS: J2 AMPHENOL MS3116F14-18S Provided with Quickset Unit)

AMPHENOL

Cable: Belden # 9458, 15 Cond. #20

CABLE ASSY Lengths & P/N’s

LENGTH P/N

4FT. 922-B206-04B

5FT. 922-B206-05B

6FT. 922-B206-06B*

12FT. 922-B206-12B

*Standard

J1

512-F3001-170 (FEMALE)

512-M3009-018 (MALE)

Figure 17: Pan & Tilt Motor Interconnect Cable

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NewsCaster VT2

NCVT2 - RF HEAD

D

F

G

Installation

Function Recommended

Wire Size (AWG)

NSI Antenna

2/7 GHz Band Select

CCW

Common Ground

#22 GREEN

#22 WHITE

#22 BLACK

L

D

E

Table 13: NSI Quad Antenna Polarization Connector Pin Out

Figure 18: NSI Quad Antenna Polarization Connections

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NewsCaster VT2 Installation

NCVT2 - RF HEAD Function Recommended Radio Waves

Wire Size (AWG) Antenna

N/C CW N/C

C

D

H

2/7 GHz Band Select

#22 RED

#22 GREEN

B

G

F CCW C

G Common +24V #22 BLACK K

K DC GND #22 BLUE M

Table 14:

Radio Waves Quad Antenna Polarization Connector Pin Out

Figure 19: Radio Waves Quad Antenna Polarization Connections

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Figure 20: Cable, RF Head to optional High Power Amplifier

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4.8 RF HEAD CONNECTORS

IF Interface and AUX Power

The TNC, or Triax, IF connector inputs the diplexed 70 MHz, inter-unit control data, and

DC power for the RF Head when Belden

1694, or Triax, cable is used. If RG-59 is used, then DC is input from the Aux Power cable via the Aux DC Power input. (Refer also to Figure 21, Detail 11.)

Antenna Polarization

This connector (if configured) receives the antenna polarity control signals from the

Control Unit. Both NSI and Radio Waves antennas are compatible, as well as others.

See Table 13 & Figure 18 for NSI details.

See Table 14 & Figure 19 for RWI details.

(Refer also to Figure 21, Detail 12.)

Pan / Tilt Power (from Control)

This connector (if configured) inputs power from the Control Unit, which is then passed on to the RF Head.

See Table 10 and Figure 15 for 120VAC P&T.

See Table 11 and Figure 16 for 12VDC P&T.

(Refer also to Figure 21, Detail 14.)

To Pan / Tilt

This connector (if configured) outputs signals and power for the Pan & Tilt unit. Refer to

Table 12 and Figure 17 for cabling and pinouts. (Refer also to Figure 21, Detail 13.)

RF Output

The RF output is via a Type-N connector located at the center rear of the NewsCaster

VT2 RF Head and carried, via a 50 Ω low-loss coaxial cable, to the antenna. Turn the cable connector clockwise while keeping it in line with the transmitter connector. To avoid unnecessary connector wear, do not allow the cable to rotate while you connect it to the transmitter. (Refer also to Figure 21,

Detail 15.)

Figure 21: RF Head, Front-Panel (shown w/Pan & Tilt option)

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Figure 22: RF Head AUX Power Connector

Installation

Figure 23: RF Head, Rear Panel

(Dual Band shown, with optional Omni ports)

Figure 24: RF Head, Rear Panel (legacy extended power)

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21 20 19 18

Figure 25: High Power Amp, or “HPA” (no longer produced)

4.9 CONTROL UNIT / RF HEAD

INTERCONNECT

Figure 26 and Figure 27 show the interconnects between the NewsCaster VT2

Control Unit and the mast mounted RF Unit

( and the legacy High Power Amplifier which is no longer produced ). To assist in preparing the Control and Monitor cable, connector pin assignments and recommended wire sizes are provided. When Triax or Belden 1694 are used, the only conductors required to pass through the Nycoil for standard operation are the coax ( or Triax ) cable ( for power, data, and

70 MHz IF ) and optional power conductors if configured for Pan & Tilt. An auxiliary power cable is required if using 75 Ω RG-59 ( or optional 50 Ω RG-58 ).

RF Head Connections

Perform the following for BOTH the Standard and legacy Extended Power Output configurations:

• Connect the RF cable to the RF Interface jack. (Figure 21, Detail 11.)

• Connect the antenna polarization cable.

(Figure 21, Detail 12.)

If the Pan/Tilt option is configured:

• Connect the Pan/Tilt Power cable to the

RF Head (7-pin). (Refer to Figure 21,

Detail 14.)

• Connect P1 (18 pin, male) of the Pan &

Tilt Power/Control cable to J1 “TO

PAN/TILT” on the RF Head. Connect P2

(17 pin, female) of the Pan & Tilt

Power/control cable to the Pan & Tilt motor assembly. Refer to Table 12 and

Figure 17 for cable pin-outs. (Refer also to

Figure 21, Detail 13.)

If the AUX Power option is configured:

• Connect the AUX Power cable to the

AUX DC POWER jack on the RF Head.

In addition to the above connections, the following are specific to the power output option chosen.

For Standard Power Output Only

Connect the antenna cable between your antenna and the appropriate “RF OUTPUT” port: 2GHz Omni; 2GHz Directional; 7GHz

Omni; or 7 GHz Directional. (Refer to Figure

23)

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For (legacy) Extended Power Output Only

Connect the 10-pin Power/Control cable, and the RF interconnect cable between the RF

Head and the High Power Amp. (Refer to

Figure 24 & Figure 25)

Connect the antenna cable between your antenna and the appropriate “RF OUTPUT” port on the High Power Amp: 2GHz Omni;

2GHz Directional; 7GHz Omni; or 7 GHz

Directional. (Refer to Figure 25)

NSI & Radio Waves Quad Antenna

Polarization Interconnection

Wiring diagrams are provided to assist in preparing the polarization cable, including connector pin assignments and recommended wire sizes.

See Table 13 & Figure 18 for NSI details.

See Table 14 & Figure 19 for RWI details.

A software setting via the LCD interface is used to select between the two antenna types, and will be factory configured per the type specified when the order is placed.

Installation

Quickset QPT90 Pan & Tilt Interconnection

The Pan & Tilt platform will handle a maximum load of 90 lbs, with 0-355° of rotation and +/ − 90° of tilt. The unit features adjustable "limit" switches for rotation and tilt. The Pan & Tilt is controlled by an optional joystick, which is connected to the

NEWSCASTER VT2 Control Unit. The operator is able to set the platform position to within 1 degree of the desired position. The

Control Unit displays the azimuth and degree of rotation, as well as the tilt above and below the horizon.

Nucomm supports two input voltage versions of the Quickset QPT90, a 12v version and a

120v version. Table 12 and Figure 17 show the interconnection between both QPT90 versions and the RF Head. The interconnection between the Control Unit and the RF head is different for each version.

QPT90 - 120VDC

See Table 10 and Figure 16 for details of the interconnection between the Control Unit and the RF Head for this Pan/Tilt Motor version.

QPT90 - 12VDC

See Table 11 and Figure 15 for details of the interconnection between the Control Unit and the RF Head for this Pan/Tilt Motor version.

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Figure 26: NCVT2 Interconnects, Standard Power

Figure 27:

NCVT2 Interconnects, Extended Power Option (legacy)

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Figure 28: Hole Pattern of RF Head (and legacy HPA) Base Plate

Drill holes (A) are .250 Dia. (through drilled)

Material is ALUM 6061, ¼” thick.

Use four (4) size ¼-20 x .750” screws to mount the unit.

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5. OPERATION

5.1 FRONT PANEL OPERATIONS

On each screen, a cursor appears as an underscore character, and is moved ( Í ) or

( Î ) by the arrow keys. When the cursor is under a desired item, select it by pressing ENT

( front panel. This should not be confused with the power output .

The user can select HI or LOW power output changes the output level 3 to 6dBm pressing the HI/LO button

(13)

) by

. The power will change when the arrow button is released.

The new value displayed is the current power. and the underscore becomes a solid box. Use

( Ï ) or ( Ð ) to scroll the available screens.

When the desired setting has been made, press

CH=1 6,887.500MHz

BAND=6-7G LOW 0.0dBm D

ENT to save the entry and put any change(s) into effect. If ENT is not pressed, and the keypad is left idle for 15 seconds, the changes are discarded. In a multi-digit selection, as in sub-carrier frequency, the boxed "Enter"

Frequency Direct:

This is an optional operating mode allowing cursor can be moved left or right to select the frequency to be changed without limitation to channels. To use, move the cursor to other digits. Refer to Figure 30 and Figure 31 for graphics showing the Menu Tree’s. underline the frequency, and press the ENT key. Use the left and right arrows to select the digit(s) to edit, and the up and down arrows to

Standard Screen:

The Standard Screen appears at power up, and displays channel, band, frequency, and output power. Note the cursor under the channel number.

CH=1 change the value(s). Continue this procedure until the entire frequency has been set. When

6,887.500MHz

BAND=6-7G HIGH 0.0dBm D complete, press ENT to have the new frequency take effect. If the frequency entered is outside the band of operation, the entry will be discarded, and an error message showing the valid region of operation will be displayed. In this mode the channel number is replaced with asterisks “ **** ”. To return to

Channel Selection: channel mode, select the channel with the cursor and change it to the desired channel

Change channels on the Standard Screen underscoring the channel and pressing

by

ENT to number. select it. Use the up or down arrows to select the new channel, then Press ENT to have the new channel take affect. The unit will go to

INDICATORS

The NewsCaster VT2 operating controls and standby as the synthesizer changes frequency.

Transmission will resume when the new frequency is reached.

Power Adjustment: indicators are shown in Figure 29. Location numbers provide for cross-reference between the figure and description.

ON/OFF (1)

Power On/Off control

The power mode of the NewsCaster VT2 is set automatically to ANALOG or DIGITAL, based on the Modulation (13) selected on the

STAT. (2) unit's status:

The following show the

Remote:

Unit is under remote control.

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RF (Green): RF present at output port.

STBY (Yellow): Indicates muted output

Alarm (Red):

Indicates that there has been a module failure. The exact reason for the alarm can be determined from the Alarm section of the Main Menu. (See Section 5.3)

Preset (3)

Six programmable preset keys are provided to save and recall system configurations. To store the current settings to a Preset, Hold the desired Preset key until the confirmation screen is displayed (about four seconds). The following settings will be saved:

• Modulation Type.

• Input Type.

• Output Power.

• Channel Number.

• Audio Settings.

LCD Interface (4)

The LCD is the main interface to the unit.

The display shown in Figure 29 is the

Standard Screen .

Entry Keypad (5)

This keypad is used to navigate the LCD menus. The ENT key is used to enter and exit from edit mode, and to make menu selections.

Mode (6)

The MODE key is used to select from the following four operating modes:

NORMAL

Transmitter is active, with or without a video

( or composite ) input signal.

STANDBY

Transmitter is in STANDBY until switched to another mode. Frequency synthesizer is locked on frequency.

Operation

V. PRES. STBY

This mode is only selectable when input is set to VIDEO . If no video is present, the transmitter will switch to STANDBY after a two-second delay ( minimum ). Use this mode to remotely place the transmitter into STBY when a video signal is removed. If the Test

Generator is installed, the user may set Color

Bars to be activated rather than have the unit go into STBY. See

Section 5.4.

V-BLK STB

This mode is only selectable when input is set to VIDEO . If the camera is capped, or black video is present at the video input ( no vertical interval signals present ) the NewsCaster VT2 will switch to Standby within 30 seconds. If the black video or black burst is removed, the unit will switch to Standby in 2 seconds.

When the video signal is reapplied, the unit will return to Normal mode within 2 seconds.

If TEST GEN is installed, the user may select

Color Bars to be activated rather than having the unit go into STBY.

AUDIO (7)

The AUDIO quick key is used for basic audio sub-carrier mode (LINE/AES) selection and gain changes.

SC1 Off/Line/AES 6.200MHz +2dB

SC2 Off/Line/AES 6.800MHz +2dB

Note: You can NOT change Audio Sub-

Carrier frequencies via this interface. Please refer to section 5.3.2 “Audio Sub-Carrier

Frequency” in the “Nextel BAS Relocation

Settings” section.

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1

2

3

4

3

CH=**** 7,037.500MHz

BAND=6-7G LOW 0.0dBm A

5

8

6 7

9

11

10

Figure 29: NEWSCASTER VT2 Front Panel Controls and Indicators

The gain or mode selection is made using the left or right arrow keys and edited using the standard editing procedure. Additional audio sub-carriers are selected with the up and down arrows. To edit sub-carrier frequency, refer to Settings in Section 5.4.

The gain adjustment allows for ± 6 dB of gain, and can be used to compensate for variance in line levels. Audio levels will be expressed in dBm when using analog modulation, and in dBu when in digital, per the following:

P dBm

+ Gain -18 = P dBu

0.0 dBm = -18 dBu

If LINE is selected, the unit accepts balanced 600-Ohm inputs at +8 dBm

Analog (-10 dBu Digital ). At 1 KHz input, headroom is +18 dBm Analog ( 0.0 dBu

Digital ).

If AES is selected, the unit accepts data from the backplane AES port(s) and decodes the Group 1 audio from the SDI stream. If only two audio channels are configured, they will be the first channel in Group 1.

Four LED’s indicate the status of the audio channel:

GREEN:

On and working - OK.

GREEN Flashing: Over modulation.

RED:

Trouble indication.

OFF:

Off, or not configured.

INPUT (8)

The INPUT key brings up the Input Screen to select the mode of the input BNC connector. Press ENT, then use the up and down arrows to select the desired format.

Press ENT to confirm entry. To return to the

Standard Screen, press the Input key or wait

15 seconds.

Input

Video

When analog modulation is selected

, the input selections will be:

Composite

SDI -

-

12

14

13

The signal applied at the

INPUT connector is routed through the internal low pass filter to modulate the output. Typically, this filter has a bandwidth of about 4.0 MHz for NTSC and 5.6 MHz for PAL. The NTSC filter selectivity ensures the higher frequency video components do not interfere with the 4.83 MHz audio subcarrier.

SDI is converted to Composite via an internal circuit and then processed as a Composite signal.

External 70 MHz FM - The input bypasses the modulator, and is routed directly to the heterodyne up-converter.

When digital modulation is selected

, the input selections will be:

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Composite

- In this mode the input signal is passed through the MPEG

Encoder and converted to digital.

SDI -

The Input is routed through the

MPEG Encoder.

External 70 MHz Digital -

The input bypasses the modulator, and routes to the heterodyne up-converter.

ASI -

Input bypasses the Encoder and goes to the digital modulator. The ASI rate must be at or below the maximum digital modulation rate.

TEST GEN (9)

This key allows editing of the 16 character

ID, and selection of the waveform display.

This is only selected when the input type is set to “VIDEO”.

When TEST GEN is enabled, the green LED is lit and the LCD displays the current pattern and ID. The menu will time-out after 2 seconds. Pressing TEST GEN a second time disable TEST GEN.

ANTENNA CONTROL (10)

The SELECT key is used to change the antenna polarization.

PAN &TILT (11)

When Pan & Tilt is pressed, the Red indicator LED is lit to indicate P/T power is enabled. Any joystick movement will move the antenna in that direction. A display for

P/T elevation and aximuth is available.

When operating the Pan & Tilt, the antenna movement MUST also be physically monitored to reduce the danger of hitting power lines, etc. When the desired position is reached, press Pan & Tilt again to disable power to the motor and reduce the possibility of unintentional antenna movement.

Operation

ANTENNA SELECTION (12)

This key toggles between Omni or

Directional for antenna selection. If no

Omni is connected this function should be disabled. (See Options in Section 5.4.)

HI/LOW RF POWER (13)

This key selects whether the unit will operate in HI or LOW power mode.

MODULATION MODE (14)

This key selects whether the unit will operate in Analog or Digital mode.

5.3.1 Main Menu

Settings

Monitoring/Alarm

Refer to Figure 30 and Figure 31 for tree diagrams of the menu system. To enter the

Main menu, hold ( Ï ) and press ENT. To select a sub-menu, move the cursor to the desired item, and press ENT. To move back up a level, select ( Í ) at the upper left of the screen and press ENT.

The Main Menu contains settings not ordinarily required during standard operation, such as the following:

• Modify the frequency plan.

• View trouble-shooting information.

• Changing sub-carrier frequencies.

• Changing video configurations.

• Setting up the remote interface.

• Configuring special unit options.

5.3.2 Settings

Selecting "Settings" accesses the system settings menu.

Í

Mod/Enc Options PA

Frequency Plan Remote

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Mod/Enc (Modulator/Encoder)

Selecting Mod/Enc provides access to parameters for video, audio, the MPEG-2 encoder and the digital/analog modulator.

First you must select whether you want to modify Analog or Digital parameters.

• ANALOG

DIGITAL

•

Analog Video and Audio

Video

Audio

Video Setup (FM modulation)

• Video Level: 0

Video Emphasis:

NTSC/PAL/Flat

Video invert and emphasis are edited from here. If the NewsCaster is used with existing gear that inverts the video, it can be pre-inverted at the transmitter to compensate. The pre-emphasis network may be bypassed, if desired.

Pressing the UP or DOWN arrow selects the

Video Standby screen where Video Black

Standby and Video Standby are set. STBY can be changed to TEST GEN if that option is installed.

Í

Vid-Blk Stby: Standby

Video Standby: Standby

Video Inverse: Invert/Normal

Audio Setup (FM modulation)

Í

SC1 Freq:7.500MHz EMP

Mode:LINE Level:+2

This screen allows viewing and editing of the analog audio configuration. Input mode, emphasis or flat, sub-carrier frequency and level may be selected. Pressing the UP or

DOWN arrows toggles between the audio inputs.

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Operation

Video Setup (Digital modulation)

ANALOG

• DIGITAL

When Digital is selected, you will see a screen allowing access to Modulator and

Encoder settings.

Í

Modulator

Encoder

Modulator Setup

Í

Power: On Mod: QPSK

CR: 1/2 GI:1/32 BW:8MHz

You can view and/or edit the following:

• Power: On/Off.

• Modulation: QPSK, 64QAM,

16QAM.

• Code Rate: 1/2, 7/8, 5/6, 3/4, 2/3.

• Guard Interval: 1/32, 1/4, 1/8, 1/10.

• Bandwidth.

Encoder Screen:

Í

Audio Video

Table GOP Rate

By selecting "Audio" you can view the sample rate.

By selecting "Video" you can view and/or edit the following:

• Standard: PAL, NTSC.

• Profile: 4:2:2, 4:2:0.

• Aspect Ratio.

By selecting "Table" you can view and/or edit the following:

• Service Name.

• Service Provider.

• PCR PID.

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NewsCaster VT2

• Video PID.

• Audio 1 PID.

• Audio 2 PID.

By selecting "GOP" you can set the GOP level from 0 (Super Low Delay) to 5

(Highest Quality Encoding).

By selecting "Rate" you can view the

"MPEG Only Rate".

Options:

Í

Start in Standy: NO

DIR Antenna Only: NO

Í

Antenna Type: Nucomm

P+T Position Pot: YES

Í

Elevation Thd: 70

Start in Standby:

The unit can be forced to startup in Standby regardless of the last mode used. Caution: if the power to the unit is interrupted for any reason the unit will not return to transmit without user intervention.

Dir Antenna Only should be set to YES if an

Omni antenna is not connected to the RF

Head. This locks the Antenna Selection

Switch in DIR and prevents accidental switching to the Omni circuit.

Antenna Type is selectable between

Nucomm and NSI. This will be factory set per the configuration ordered.

Pan + Tilt Position Pot

If the Pan and Tilt control potentiometers are installed, then this option should be set to YES .

Elevation Threshold can be used to halt the

Pan function when the selected elevation has been exceeded, to avoid equipment damage.

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Operation

PA

This is a Factory access point to the power amplifier bias points, and should only be used with factory consultation.

Frequency Plan

Í

Frequency Band

2GHz 7GHz 12/13GHz

This menu allows viewing and editing of the frequency plan.

Remote:

Í

Remote Cfg

Download Data

This menu allows remote configuration through a PC. The type of interface ( RS232 or RS485 ), BAUD rate, and address (1-255) are selectable.

The Download Data function is for use by factory personnel only.

5.3.3 Monitoring/Alarms

(Trouble Shooting)

(See Table 15 for Alarms and their Cause)

Selecting Monitoring/Alarm allows status to be obtained on the Control and RF Units.

Notice the internal temperature of the units may be monitored.

Í

Control: OK 25ºC

RF Module: OK 63ºC

Visibility to the full range of alarms is provided, with an indicator of which module is failing.

Control Unit:

Í

PSU:OK Audio:OK

Mod/Enc:OK Enc:N/A

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This first screen under "Control" provides an overview of the Control Unit. To obtain specific module status, move the cursor and press ENT .

Power Supply Screen:

Í

PSU:+12 Voltage OK

+12= +11.9V − 12 = − 12.0V

This screen displays the units PSU voltages.

The first display line toggles between the two voltages present.

Modulator/Encoder:

Í

Encoder: WORKING OK

Ver: **.*

Í

Encoder: WORKING OK

Current Rate: *.***mbps

Í

Encoder: WORKING OK

Max Rate: *.***mbps

This screen displays modulator/encoder status. Version, Current Rate, and

Maximum Rate are displayed.

RF Unit:

Í

P&T:N/A Synth:OK

Controller:OK

This first screen under "RF Module" provides an overview of the RF Unit. To obtain specific module status, move the cursor and press ENT .

P&T Screen:

Í

P&T:WORKING OK

Under this screen, the status of the pan and tilt motor is displayed.

Operation

Synthesizer Screen:

Í

Synth:WORKING OK

Loop=+2.9V

Í

Synth:WORKING OK

15.0= +14.5V 22.0= +23.2V

Under this screen, the locked status and loop voltage of synthesizer is displayed.

Controller Screen:

Í

RF Router:WORKING OK

Ver:D2

Í

RF Router:WORKING OK

+48v= +41 +11v= 10.7V

Í

RF Router:WORKING OK

+5= +4.8V − 5 = − 4.7V

Í

RF Router:WORKING OK

+24= 22V Var = − 8.9V

These screens provide status on the power supply voltages, plus the firmware version of the control board in the RF Head.

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5.4 NEXTEL BAS RELOCATION SETTINGS

For our US clients, the ChannelMaster is designed so that, when properly configured per the following guidelines, you will only need to change one setting, on one screen when it’s time to switch over to the “post-Nextel” 2GHz band plan

To preset the unit to allow a “one setting” switchover, there are two groups of settings that must be made in advance: “AUDIO SUB-CARRIER FREQUENCY” and “CHANNEL BANDWIDTH &

BAND PLAN” . These are described below.

5.4.1 Audio Sub-Carrier Frequency

In this section you set your “pre-Nextel” and “post-Nextel” Audio Sub-Carrier (ASC) frequencies, so that when you make the switchover they will be ready to go.

Start the ASC set-up procedure by making the following menu selections:

SETTINGS>MODULATOR/ENCODER>ANALOG>AUDIO

This brings up a screen similar to the one at right, with the settings and selections as described below:

Í SC1 Insertion: (-20 to -40dBc)

2(17)/7/13: 4.83 MHz

2(12) 1-7: 4.83 MHz

2(12) 8-10: 4.83 MHz

NOTE: Press “Up” & “Down” to scroll through the ASC’s, and press “Left” & “Right” to scroll through the available settings. The settings for all ASC’s are modified in the same fashion. ASC#1 is used as the example.

2(17)/7/13

This setting controls the frequency for the selected Sub-Carrier when operating in the “pre-Nextel” 2GHz band (USA), and also for all the other frequency bands (i.e. 7GHz or 13GHz). The possible range for this setting is

4.83MHz to 8.5MHz.

2(12) 1-7

This setting controls the frequency for the selected Sub-Carrier when operating in the “post-Nextel” 2GHz band (USA) on channels 1 through 7.

The possible range for this setting is 4.83MHz to 5.8MHz

2(12) 8-10

This setting controls the frequency for the selected Sub-Carrier when operating in the “post-Nextel” 2GHz band (USA) on channels 8 through 10.

The possible range for this setting is 4.83MHz to 8.5MHz

Bandplan

Nucomm’s default Audio Sub-carrier Frequencies

ASC4*

2(17)/7/13

2(12) 1-7

2(12) 8-10

4.83MHz 6.20MHz 6.80MHz 7.50MHz

4.83MHz

5.80MHz

6.80MHz 7.50MHz

4.83MHz 6.20MHz 6.80MHz 7.50MHz

*NOTE: Due to bandwidth limitations, only two ASC’s can be active on the “post-Nextel”

2GHz bandplan (US), regardless of how the unit is hardware configured.

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5.4.2 Channel Bandwidth and Band Plan

In this section you can set your “pre-Nextel” and “post-Nextel” Video Bandwidth Deviation, so that when you make the switchover they will be ready to go.

Start this set-up procedure by making the following menu selections:

MENU>Settings>Options>Nextel

2GHz Freq Plan:

2G(17), 2G(12)

This brings up the screen at right, with the settings

BW(2G(17)/7/13): 4MHz, 3MHz and selections as described below:

BW(2G(12)8-10):

4MHz, 3MHz

2GHz Freq Plan

This setting controls the 2GHz Frequency Plan which will be used by the radio. Select the 17MHz “pre-Nextel” bandplan by choosing “2G(17)”, or the 12MHz “post-Nextel” bandplan by choosing “2G(12)”.

BW(2G(17)(7/13)

This setting controls your Video Deviation bandwidth when operating in the “pre-Nextel” 2GHz band (USA), and also for all the other frequency bands (i.e. 7GHz or 13GHz). The possible selections are 3MHz or 4MHz.

BW(2G(12) 8-10)

This setting controls the Video Deviation bandwidth when operating in the “post-Nextel” 2GHz band (USA) on channels 8 through 10. The possible selections are 3MHz or 4MHz.

NOTE: Due to bandwidth limitations of the “post-Nextel” 2GHz bandplan, in “2G(12)” mode, the

Video Deviation bandwidth of 2GHz channels 1 through 7 is locked at 3MHz..

5.4.3 SWITCHOVER TO “POST-NEXTEL” SETTINGS

For our US clients, when your DMA switchover date arrives, assuming you have already set the unit per the preceding guidelines, you will only need to take the following steps to put the radio on the new “post-Nextel” settings:

Step #1: Navigate to the following menu:

Settings>Options>Nextel

Step #2: Change

your

“2GHz Freq Plan”

setting from “2G(17)” to “2G(12)”

Step #3: Done!

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NewsCaster VT2 Alarms

Alarm Message

“+11V Error”

“+5V Error”

Problem

+11 VDC is out of tolerance.

+5 VDC is out of tolerance.

Probable Cause

Problem in power supply or +11 VDC line being loaded down.

Problem in power supply or +5 VDC line being loaded down.

Reference Oscillator signal wrong or bad. “IFLO Unlock”

“RFLO Unlock”

“MOD: FPGA FAIL”

“MOD: LOADING ERR”

“MOD: VIDEO ERROR”

“MOD: AUDIO ERROR”

IF Local Oscillator (Reference) cannot frequency lock.

RF Local Oscillator (Reference) cannot frequency lock.

FPGA failed software loading from

PROM.

MOD microprocessor failed loading data EPROM or EPROM data not recognizable.

MPEG Video FIFO Read/Write

Error.

MPEG Audio FIFO Read/Write

Error.

External ASI Data Rate Error

Reference Oscillator signal wrong or bad.

Bad PROM.

Bad EPROM or EPROM data corrupted.

Bad MPEG Encoder Module.

Bad MPEG Encoder Module.

“MOD: ASI OVERFLOW”

“MOD: ASI UNLOCKED” External ASI Signal Lock Error

“MOD: NO VIDEO INPUT” Video signal missing.

“MOD: NO AES AUDIO 1” No AES Audio 1 signal.

“MOD: NO EMD AUDIO 1” No Embedded Audio 1 signal.

“MOD: EMB RATE 1”

“MOD: NO AES AUDIO 2 ” No AES Audio 2 signal.

“MOD: NO EMD AUDIO 2” No Embedded Audio 2 signal.

“MOD: EMB RATE 2”

Embedded Audio 1 Data Rate

Error.

Embedded Audio 2 Data Rate

Error.

Check devices for proper data rate setting.

Check external ASI signal for problems.

Possibly U1 ( SDI Receiver ) of COFDM MPEG

2 Encoder Board, its PLL circuit, or its clock is bad.

Check external ASI signal for problems.

Possibly U1 ( SDI Receiver ) of COFDM MPEG

2 Encoder Board, its PLL circuit, or its clock is bad.

Bad cable, bad connector, or COFDM MPEG 2

Encoder Board bad.

Possibly U24 or U11 of COFDM MPEG 2

Encoder Board bad.

Possibly U1 ( SDI Receiver ) or U17

( Microprocessor ) of COFDM MPEG 2

Encoder Board bad.

Check devices for proper data rate setting.

Check external SDI signal for problems.

Possibly COFDM MPEG 2 Encoder Board bad.

Possibly U22 or U7 of COFDM MPEG 2

Encoder Board bad.

Possibly U1 ( SDI Receiver ) or U17

( Microprocessor ) of COFDM MPEG 2

Encoder Board bad.

Check devices for proper data rate setting.

Check external SDI signal for problems.

Possibly COFDM MPEG 2 Encoder Board bad.

Table 15: NewsCaster VT2 Alarms

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NewsCaster VT2

Monitoring/Alarm

Control Unit: OK / FAIL

PSU: OK / FAIL

+12 Voltage OK, +12V=xxV

Mod/Enc: OK / FAIL

Encoder

Software Version

Current Data Rate

Maximum Data Rate

RF Module: OK / FAIL

Pan & Tilt: WORKING OK/FAIL

Synth: OK/FAIL

Synth: Working OK / FAIL

Ver: xxx

Date: xxx

10.0v=+xx.xV 5.0v=+xx.xV

Loop=+x.xV

IF AGC = +0.0V

Controller: OK / FAIL

RF Router:WORKING OK/FAIL

Ver: xxx

+45V=xxV, +12V=xx.xV

+5V=x.xV

+24V=xxV, +12V PA=xx.xV

Figure 30: Menu Tree: “Monitoring & Alarms”

Operation

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NewsCaster VT2 Operation

Factory

Use Only

Band 1: (View/Edit)

Band 2: (View/Edit)

Standard: NTSC / PAL

Emphasis: OFF / ON

Deviation: 0

Filter: Bypass / 3.9 / 4.5 / 4.75 / 5.6MHz

Inverse: YES / NO

Power: ON, OFF

Modulation: QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM

Code Rate: 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8

Guard Interval: 1/32, 1/16, 1/8. 1/4

Bandwidth: 6MHz, 7MHz, 8MHz

Start in Standby: (Yes / No)

Dir Antenna Only: (Yes / No)

Antenna Type: (Nucomm / NSI)

P+T Position Pot: (Yes / No)

Elevation Threshold: (0 - 90)

NEXTEL

Remote

Download Data (Factory Use Only)

Sample

Rate

Standard: (NTSC, PAL)

Profile: (4:2:0, 4:2:2)

Aspect Ratio: (4:3, 16:9)

Service Name: (NEWSCODER)

Service Provider: (NUCOMM, Inc.)

PCR PID: (0x1FFE)

Video PID: (0x0134)

Audio 1 PID: (0x0200)

MPEG Only

Rate

(View Only)

GOP Level: 0 (Super Low Delay)

GOP Level: 1 (IP-15 Frame)

GOP Level: 2 (IP-45 Frame)

GOP Level: 3 (IPB-15 Frame)

GOP Level: 4 (IPB-45 Frame)

GOP Level: 5 (IPBB-16 Frame)

Figure 31: Menu Tree: “Settings”

Control: (Local/Remote, Local Only, Remote Only)

Address: (1-255)

Interface: (RS232, RS485, RS232RECV, RS422)

Baud Rate: (4800, 9600, 19200)

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