Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues. TracVision M5, M7 & M7SK Switchplate

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide

Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting

Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues

This section addresses the most common operational issues that can affect the performance of the TracVision M5/M7. If your TracVision system requires service, you can visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice

.

Receiver Fault or Improper Receiver Configuration

Receiver Fault

Your satellite TV receiver might be set up incorrectly or defective. First check the receiver’s configuration to ensure it is set up for the desired programming. In the case of a faulty receiver, refer to your selected receiver’s user manual for service and warranty information.

Improper Receiver Configuration (Linear Systems Only)

To ensure proper operation, the receiver(s) must be set up for the same satellites, and in the same order, they are set up in the antenna:

Antenna

Satellite

Sat. A

Sat. B

Receiver

Satellite

DiSEqC

Setting

Alternative 1 or A DiSEqC 1

Alternative 2 or B DiSEqC 2

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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide

Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting

Satellite Coverage Issue

Television satellites are located in fixed positions above the Earth’s equator and beam TV signals down to certain regions of the planet

(not worldwide). To receive TV signals from a satellite, you must be located within that satellite’s unique coverage area.

TIP: For your convenience, KVH provides links to several websites that offer satellite coverage information. Simply visit our website at

www.kvh.com/ footprint

.

Figure 4-2 Location and Coverage Area of DIRECTV 101 Satellite

36

Equator

Satellite Signal Blocked

Since TV satellites are located above the equator, the TracVision antenna must have a clear view of the sky to receive satellite TV signals. Anything that stands between the antenna and the satellite can block the signal, resulting in lost reception. Common causes of blockage include boat masts, trees, buildings, and bridges. Heavy rain, ice, or snow might also temporarily interrupt satellite signals.

Figure 4-3 Example of Satellite Blockage

Blocked!

TracVision

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide

Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting

Radar Interference

The TracVision M5/M7 antenna must be kept out of line with nearby radars, as their energy levels might overload the antenna’s front-end circuits. Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for details or visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a

KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/ wheretogetservice

.

Satellite Frequency Data Changed

If some channels work, while one or more other channels do not, or if the antenna cannot find the selected satellite, the satellite’s frequency data might have changed. You can visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice

.

Vessel Turning During Startup

If the vessel turns during the first minute after startup, the gyro calibration that occurs during startup might be faulty. This might cause the TracVision M5/M7 to track improperly. To solve this problem, simply turn off the TracVision M5/M7 system for at least ten seconds. Then turn on the TracVision system, ensuring the vessel is either motionless or traveling in a straight line for the first minute after startup.

Insufficient Power

If the power cable to the antenna unit is more than 50 ft (15 m) long, the power level can decrease over the course of the cable, resulting in a voltage level at the antenna that is a too low to power the system.

Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for details on supplying adequate power to the antenna or visit any KVHauthorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVHauthorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice

.

Improper Wiring

If the system has been improperly wired, the antenna will not operate correctly. Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for complete system wiring information or visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice

.

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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide

Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting

Loose RF Connectors

KVH recommends periodically checking the system’s cable connections. A loose RF connector can reduce signal quality or prevent automatic satellite switching using the receiver’s remote control. Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for complete system wiring information or visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit

www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice

.

Type of Multiswitch Used

If your TracVision system’s configuration requires a multiswitch, an active (powered) multiswitch must be used to ensure proper antenna performance. Refer to the Wiring Diagrams in

“Appendix A” on page 43

or

“Appendix B” on page 47

for detailed information.

Cable Unwrap

If your vessel makes several consecutive circles in the same direction, the antenna will rotate 720° before reaching the end of its internal cable. If this occurs, the system will automatically unwrap the cable by quickly rotating the antenna dish in the opposite direction. During this time, your TV picture will freeze momentarily.