RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 3.0 Theory of Operation: Overview 1
RC1000A POLAR AXIS
ANTENNA CONTROLLER
v 3.80
CONTENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE 11.01.00
RESEARCH CONCEPTS, INC. 5420 MARTINDALE ROAD
SHAWNEE, KANSAS 66218-9680 USA Phone: 913/422-0210; Fax: 913/422-0211
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1.0 TABLE OF CONTENTS 2.0 REVISION HISTORY 2 3.0 THEORY OF OPERATION 3 4.0 INSTALLATION 4 5.0 QUICK START FAMILIARIZATION 8 5-1 Factory Presets 8 5-2 User Interface 8 5-3 Quick Start Procedure 9 6.0 IN-DEPTH FUNCTION DESCRIPTION 10 6-1 Display Screen Familiarization 10 6-2 Switch Function 12 6-3 MANUAL Mode 13 6-4 AUTO Mode 14 6-5 LIMITS Mode 15 6-6 SET Mode 15 6-7 DELETE Mode 18 6-8 FIX Mode 18 6-9 SPEED Mode 19 6-10 AUTO-POL Mode 19 7.0 BATTERY/FUSE REPLACEMENT 21 7-1a Power Line Fuse 21 7-1b Motor Drive Fuse 21 7-2 Battery Replacement 22 8.0 SPECIFICATIONS 24 9.0 TROUBLESHOOTING/ERROR CODES 26 TABLE OF FIGURES 4.1 Interface Diagram 5 4.2A Schematic Diagram - Reed Sensor 6 4.2B Schematic Diagram - Hall Effect Sensor 7 6.1 Display Screen Examples 11 6.6 Satellite Names 17 6.9 Drive Voltage relative to speed index 20 7.2 Component Layout 23 8.0 Drive Transfer Function 25 APPENDIX 1 RC1000A Remote Control Option APPENDIX 2 RS422 Interface Implementation APPENDIX 3 RS422 Interface Specification
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 3.0 Theory of Operation: Overview 3
2.0 RC1000A REVISION HISTORY
DATE VERSION DESCRIPTION
12-20-89 1.0 - Original
4-23-90 1.1 - Allowed the user to specify the 'SLOW' mode speed index.
4-26-90 2.0 - Allowed the user to specify the 'FAST' mode speed index. - Added new satellites to the preset select list.
8-24-90 2.1 - Implemented motion detect alarm software to protect the
antenna in the event of a sensor failure. When an error is sensed, the RC1000A displays "ANT/SENSOR ERROR" and halts drive signals after 2 seconds.
- Implemented a relative SKEW position display whenever the CW or CCW SKEW keys are depressed and the position field is active. Relative position is between P00 and P99.
- Autoscaled reed count input to work with any sensor resolution. Count is scaled between the EAST and WEST limits with WEST being mapped to a count of 980.
10-4-90 2.2 - The unit now automatically carries over the correct polarization
position upon termination of an AUTO move. - Allowed the user to OVERWRITE position data when in SET
mode instead of allowing multiple positions with the same name. - Alphabetized satellite preset list.
12-20-90 2.3 - Major revision to accommodate future remote PC software.
Added Auto-Pol feature whereby Pol control can be slaved to a receiver. Changed display format to indicate relative position of antenna to a target by making use of lower and upper case names. Re-ordered satellite list by longitude. When programming, controller returns to last used location in SET list instead of starting from the beginning.
1-30-91 2.31 - The satellite list presented to the user in AUTO mode is now
sorted by ascending orbital position. SBS6 and Galaxy6 were added to the SET mode list. A small positioning bug, found only in V2.3, was fixed.
6-12-91 2.32 - updated satellite list.
- Accommodated hall effect sensor, changed fuse type.
1-3-92 2.33 - Updated satellite list.
4-10-92 2.34 - Updated satellite list. 4-14-93 2.40 - Updated satellite list. Corrected bug in sat name display and H/V pol recall system. 3-17-94 2.41 - Updated satellite list. 4-15-98 - The RC1KS1 Comm option is now included as a standard
feature in all RC1000 units.
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 3.0 Theory of Operation: Overview 3
3.0 THEORY OF OPERATION - OVERVIEW The RC1000A Automatic Satellite Antenna Positioner is designed to automate the process of positioning a polar antenna for a range of satellites. This microcontroller-based unit eliminates the need to manually move the antenna each time a different satellite is desired. Once the position and polarization have been programmed for each particular satellite, the RC1000A will return to that position with precision every time. The RC1000A rack mount controller was designed with commercial requirements in mind. It offers a range of unique features, including dual speed control, built-in Polarotortm control, and motion detect software to guard against sensor errors. The friendly user interface features a 2 x 16-character backlit Liquid Crystal Display. While in Manual mode, the user is able to JOG the azimuth position and SKEW polarization with the touch of a key. AUTO mode will automatically move the antenna and polarotor to up to 50 preset positions. These positions are assigned by using the SET mode, then stored in battery backed-up memory. The user will be able to delete any of this stored data, either selectively (in DEL mode) or completely (by typing CLEAR at the USER entry in SET mode). The user must set software limits in LIM mode. Doing so enables the unit to work with a reed switch type of position sensor with any number of counts up to 32,000. The RC1000A will always normalize the display position to approximately 10 at the East limit and 980 at the West limit for display format consistency. In the event of a sensor failure, the user can easily re-sync the satellite positions thru the FIX mode. The SLOW and FAST speed indexes are user-programmable, enabling the user to match the antenna drive to the antenna load for optimum C and Ku performance. It is also possible to slave the polarization H/V toggle to commercial receivers that provide an H/V output signal. This is done by turning the AUTO POL mode ON and telling the RC1000A whether Vertical POL corresponds to a high or low signal on the RC1000A auto-pol input. When this feature is ON, the front panel SKEW and POL keys are disabled. Overall, the RC1000A is well equipped to handle the commercial requirements of hotel, school, hospital, and flexible SMATV special event feeds, as well as network affiliate secondary downlink control.
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 4.0 Installation 4
4.0 INSTALLATION 1. Use (4) #10-32 panel mounting screws to fasten unit into a standard 19" rack. 2. Refer to Figures 4.1 (page 6) and 4.2A and B (page 7 & 8) for detailed interconnect
legends.
a. Motor Drive Controls (3 wires)
This cable connects J1 of the RC1000A and the motor mounted at the antenna. It must be capable of carrying the required motor current the desired distance without a significant drop in voltage. Since this cable carries 36VDC, it is very important to protect it in conduit at all times to minimize the potential hazard for electric shock.
b. Polarotor (Skew Control) (3 wires)
This cable connects J1 of the RC1000A to the polarotor mounted at the antenna feed. A three-conductor shielded cable is necessary for this application. To minimize noise pickup and ground loop problems, be sure to ground the shield or drain wire at terminal 8 of J1 ONLY. Failure to do so may result in poor polarotor operation, or even possible damage to the polarotor circuits.
c. Sensor (Reed - 2 wires, Hall Effect - 3 wires)
This cable connects J1 of the RC1000A to the position sensor located at the antenna. Shielded cable is necessary, and the shield or drain should be grounded at pin 2 of J1 ONLY. Again, the purpose is to minimize noise pickup and eliminate ground loop problems. Failure to do so could result in antenna tracking errors or even damage to the microcontroller itself. Refer to Figures 4.2A and 4.2B for connections.
d. Auto-Pol (2 wires)
This cable connects J1 to the receiver H/V toggle output. Connect the signal line to pin 12, J1, and the ground or return signal line to pin 8, J1.
Note: It is critical that as the antenna moves from West to East the position count shown on the
display MUST decrease - if it does not, pins 9 and 11 (motor drive) on J1 must be reversed - recheck Figure 4.2 and correct.
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 4.0 Installation 5
FIGURE 4.1 INTERFACE DIAGRAM 1
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 4.0 Installation 6
FIGURE 4.2A
INSTALLATION SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM - REED SENSOR
J1
4
5
67
91011
8
RC2000
13
46
J2
24-36VDCAZIMUTH MOTOR
24-36VDCELEVATION MOTORELEV DRIVE(1)
ELEV DRIVE(2)
AZIM DRIVE(1)
AZIM DRIVE(2)
18-22 AWG, SHIELDED
12-16 AWG, BRAIDED
18-22 AWG, SHIELDED
RECEIVER(OPTIONAL)
H/VOUTPUT
H/V INPUT
RETURN
INPUT
RETURN
INPUT
SKEW RETURN
SKEW PULSE
SKEW POWER, 5.7VDC
POLAROTORASSEMBLY
AZIMUTHREED SENSOR
ASSEMBLY
ELEVATIONREED SENSOR
ASSEMBLY
(AUTOPOL SIGNALS)
RTN
RC1000A Antenna Controller Chapter 4.0 Installation 7
FIGURE 4.2B
INSTALLATION SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM - HALL EFFECT SENSOR
J14
5
6
7
91011
8
RC2000
13
46
J2
24-36VDCAZIMUTH MOTOR
24-36VDCELEVATION MOTORELEV DRIVE(1)
ELEV DRIVE(2)
AZIM DRIVE(1)
AZIM DRIVE(2)
18-22 AWG, SHIELDED
12-16 AWG, BRAIDED
18-22 AWG, SHIELDED
RECEIVER(OPTIONAL)
H/VOUTPUT
H/V INPUT
RETURN
INPUT
RETURN
INPUT
SKEW RETURN
SKEW PULSE
SKEW POWER, 5.7VDCTMPOLAROTOR
ASSEMBLY
AZIMUTHHALL-EFFECT
ASSEMBLY
ELEVATIONHALL-EFFECT
ASSEMBLY
(AUTOPOL SIGNALS)
POWER
POWER
RTN
RC1000A Antenna Controller............................................................5.0 Quick Start 8
5.0 QUICK START FAMILIARIZATION 5-1 FACTORY PRESETS When the RC1000A is shipped from the factory, the memory is clear. The Polarotortm skew is set at 50, halfway between the 0 and 99 limits. Similarly, the polar axis position is set at 500, halfway between the East and West limits of 10 and 980, respectively. The speed index defaults are 11 for slow and 23 for fast. The AUTO-POL feature is OFF. This feature should not be enabled until all satellite positions and polarization’s are committed to memory, and then only if a receiver is used that has polarization output capability. The Control front panel switch is set to MANUAL. If it is set to REMOTE, all front panel keys will be locked out. 5-2 USER INTERFACE The RC1000A makes use of the "Softkey" concept in the layout of the front panel. This means that the function of each key is not fixed, but is defined by the legend, located directly over them, on the bottom row of the display. The function of the buttons is determined by the mode shown in the upper right hand corner of the display. There are two levels of control in the RC1000A: Operational and Programming. Operational control consists of two modes, Manual and Auto, that are necessary for daily operation of the controller. The user can toggle from one mode to the other by rapidly depressing and releasing the MODE key. The default mode is MAN. Programming control consists of several modes, and can only be entered into by pressing the MODE key for at least five seconds. This allows the user entry into the following modes: SET, DEL, LIMITS, FIX, SPEED, and AUTO-POL. To return to manual mode depress the mode key again for at least 5 seconds.
RC1000A Antenna Controller............................................................5.0 Quick Start 9
5-3 QUICK START PROCEDURE 1. Install unit. (Refer to Section 4.) 2. Set EAST limit - This value will be assigned a value of 10 after the west limit is set.
(Section 6-5.) 3. Set WEST limit - This value will be assigned a value of 980 to normalize the count for
display format consistency. (Section 6-5.)
4. Set SLOW and FAST speed indexes according to the antenna load and application. The system defaults are 11 for slow and 23 for fast. (Section 6-9.)
5. Validate clear memory - "NO DATA" in AUTO Mode.
6. Jog to easternmost satellite in MAN mode. 7. Assign position to satellite name and set polarization. (SET mode - Section 6-6.) If skew
keys don't seem to work, make sure that Auto-Pol is disabled. (Section 6-10.)
8. Manually jog WEST to next satellite.
9. Repeat 7 & 8 for all satellites desired.
10. Check positioning accuracy with AUTO mode. (Section 6-4.)
11. Enable AUTO-POL feature if the RC1000A is slaved to a receiver. (Section 6-10.)
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 10
6.0 IN-DEPTH FUNCTION DESCRIPTION
6-1 Display Screen Familiarization The display screen contains two lines with 16 characters per line. The SATELLITE NAME is either chosen from a pre-defined list (see page 17) or assigned by user in SET mode. In MAN mode, when the name is in capital letters, this denotes that the controller is within one degree east or west of that particular satellite. When in small letters, the controller is within 1-3 degrees east or west of the satellite position. When no name is shown, the controller is not within this specified range of any satellite position assigned to memory. The POSITION variable default shows the current position of the antenna as derived from the position sensor pulse count. The range for antenna position is 10 to 980. This data will be replaced with the polarization position while the SKEW buttons are being pressed, then will default back to the antenna position. The range for the polarization position is P00-P99. The MODE shown on the display is the current operational status of the positioner, and determines the function of the Softkeys. The KEY DESCRIPTION describes the current function of the A, B, and E keys. The program utilizes the "Softkey" concept. This means that a key does not maintain a fixed function, but instead is periodically redefined by software to fit a particular mode of operation. Therefore, the function of the keys is determined by the MODE the user is currently in.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 11
FIGURE 6.1 SCREEN OPTIONS
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 12
6-2 SWITCH FUNCTION To simplify instructions, the key or button descriptions will always be shown in enhanced text. MODE
This pushbutton selects between Operation and Programming mode groups, and the mode within each group. The current mode will always be displayed on the screen in the upper right hand corner. See appendix for additional MODE information if using a remote control option.
OPERATION MODE GROUP
AUTO Automatic
MAN Manual
PROGRAMMING MODE GROUP
LIM Limits
SET Set satellite & polarization position in memory
DEL Delete satellite from memory
FIX Correct position readout errors
SPEED Adjust fast & slow speed voltages for load
AUTO-POL Slaves the unit to a receiver with H/V output signals To change from OPERATION Mode Group to PROGRAMMING Mode Group, or vice-versa, simply hold the MODE button in for at least five (5) seconds, then release. The new mode will not be displayed on the screen until you have released the MODE button. This will be referred to in the text as: Hold MODE and release To change from AUTO to MAN, or from LIM to SET, DEL, or FIX, scroll to your selection by pushing the MODE button once. This will be referred to in the text as: Scroll MODE
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 13
A & B
The function of these buttons is determined by the mode shown in the upper right hand corner of the display, and is described by the text appearing over them on the display bottom line.
E
This Softkey is basically an "ENTER" button, which signifies the desired data is on the display screen, and it should be saved or acted upon. The current function is defined by the legend directly above the key, in the lower right hand corner of the display.
CW-SKEW CCW-SKEW
These two buttons adjust the polarization skew in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The user fine-tunes the horizontal and vertical polarization with these buttons. The current polarization count will display in the middle of the top line of the LCD display while these keys are being pressed. NOTE: These keys are disabled when the Auto-Pol feature is enabled.
6-3 MANUAL Mode This mode is used to manually jog the antenna's polar axis as well as toggle the polarization between the H and V values of the satellite in memory closest to the antenna's polar position. Additionally, fine-tuning the polarization with the CW/CCW Skew keys is possible in this mode. Fast and slow speeds are selected via the SPEED switch, positioned on the right side of the RC1000A faceplate. The REMOTE switch must be kept in the MANUAL position for the front panel keys to be active. Also, the AUTO-POL feature must be off for the CW/CCW Skew and POL toggle key to be active (see section 6-10). If Auto-Pol is enabled, the legend above the E key will be RCV: rather than POL:. Once the unit is programmed, the user can view the arc of assigned satellites simply by jogging from one limit to the other. When the antenna is within 3o of an assigned satellite, that satellite name appears in lower case letters. As the antenna jogs to within 1o of the satellite, the name changes to upper case letters, signifying the antenna is close to an established target. Any satellite names that have not been assigned will not display. Likewise, as the polarization is within approximately 40o of the target value, a lower case h or v appears in the display. The indication changes to upper case (H or V) when the probe is within 10o. No indication for polarity means the probe is positioned between h and v.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 14 1. Check the Mode in the upper right hand corner of the display to determine if the program
is in MAN mode. If the program is in the Programming Mode Group (either LIM, SET, DEL, FIX, SPEED, or AUTO-POL) hold MODE and release to get to MAN mode. If it is in AUTO mode, scroll MODE once to get to MAN mode.
2. Jog the antenna as desired using either A to move east or B to move west.
3. Toggle the polarization from H to V by pressing E (if Auto-Pol is disabled). 4. Fine-tune the polarization as desired by using the CW & CCW Skew keys (if Auto-Pol
is disabled).
6-4 AUTO Mode Once the programming has been completed, day to day operation of the RC1000A is very simple. The user chooses a satellite, and the controller automatically moves the antenna to the correct position and polarization. 1. Check the Mode in the upper right hand corner of the display to determine if the program
is in AUTO mode. If the program is in the Programming Mode Group (either LIM, SET, DEL, FIX, SPEED, or AUTO-POL) hold MODE and release to get to AUTO mode. If it is in MAN mode, scroll MODE once to get to AUTO mode.
2. Scroll using either A or B to desired satellite. 3. Press E to Enter. 4. Antenna will automatically move to assigned position.
(While the antenna is moving, the message "STOP" will appear above the E key. The move will be disabled if E is pressed, and the system will return to MAN mode.)
5. When the move is completed, the mode will automatically change to MANUAL mode. In
this mode the picture can be fine-tuned using the A & B keys, and the desired polarization may be selected via the E key.
NOTE: WHEN THE POWER IS TURNED OFF, THE POLAROTOR PROBE MAY SLIGHTLY
SHIFT POSITIONS. WHEN THE POWER IS REAPPLIED, THE POLARATOR PROBE WILL MOVE BACK TO THE POSITION IT WAS AT BEFORE POWER WAS REMOVED. FOR THIS REASON, ALWAYS LEAVE THE CONTROLLER ON.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 15 6-5 LIMITS Mode NOTE: To set limits, there must be someone outside at the antenna location to let the
programmer know when the antenna has reached its physical limits of travel. It is critical that as the antenna moves from west to east, the position count shown on the display MUST DECREASE. If it does not, pins 9 and 11 on J1 are reversed. Recheck Figures 4.1 and 4.2 and correct.
************ WARNING ************* THERE ARE NO RESTRICTIONS ON ANTENNA MOVEMENT WHEN IN THE
LIMITS MODE - USE CAUTION! **********************************
1. Go to LIMITS mode (in Programming Mode Group.) 2. Screen will prompt "SET EAST LIMIT". The first limit must be the east limit. 3. Move antenna using A or B to the East limit while the assistant outside alerts the
programmer when the antenna comes to within 2 inches of the east limit of the antenna mount.
4. Press E to set the limit. 5. Screen will prompt "SET WEST LIMIT" for the opposing limit - Repeat steps 2 through 4. 6. Program will automatically put you back into MAN mode. 7. In order to verify that the limits have been stored correctly, turn the unit off for five
seconds, then turn it back on. While in contact with the person outside to verify the physical position of the antenna, jog the antenna to its maximum eastern limit. Repeat for the western limit. If the antenna does not stop at the designated physical limit, you must repeat these steps. Check all connections and equipment.
6-6 SET Mode Set mode allows the user to enter a satellite name, position, and polarization settings to memory. Once a satellite has been entered into memory using SET mode, it can be automatically located using AUTO mode. 1. Make sure that you are in MAN mode and the Auto-Pol feature is disabled. 2. Move antenna to the easternmost satellite position you wish to program by using the A
or B buttons to jog east. 3. Hold MODE and release to go to Programming Mode Group, scroll MODE to SET.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 16 4. The satellite names will display in the order of their position in the arc, east to west.
Scroll through the predefined list if the satellite you wish to program is included. When you find the name, proceed to 5a. If you do not find the name, proceed to 5b on the next page to enter a user-defined name into memory.
5a. Press E to assign the name to this position. If the name has already been assigned to
another position in memory, the system will prompt you for a confirmation before overriding this assignment.
6. The screen will now prompt you in the lower right hand corner to "SET: V" - (vertical
polarization.) You can choose to set horizontal first by pushing A. 7. Use SKEW buttons to fine tune picture for the designated polarization. If the skew
buttons don't seem to work, make sure that the Auto-Pol feature is disabled. 8. When satisfied with reception, press E. 9. The system will automatically prompt you for the other polarization - Repeat steps 8 & 9.
When the second polarization has been entered, the system should display a "DATA ACCEPTED" message.
10. System will automatically put you back in MAN mode so that you can move the antenna
to the next satellite you wish to program - Repeat steps 2 through 10. The list of satellite names will return to the last name assigned, so that if all satellites are programmed in their position order from east to west, finding and assigning names is simplified.
********************************************************************* 5b. Procedure for entering user-defined satellite name
If the satellite name is not in memory, you can assign a new name of up to seven (7) alpha-numeric characters (A-Z, 0-9, or space) by accessing the USER entry mode as follows. a. Scroll A until USER is shown in upper left corner of screen. b. Press E - star prompt (*) will appear in first space. c. To enter letter, scroll B up through alphabet. To enter number, scroll A down through
numbers. To enter space, press A once and B once.
(Letters and numbers are on a continuous scroll, so if you pass the desired value, simply back up by pushing the opposite key: A will always scroll down and B will always scroll up, regardless of which character is currently displayed.)
d. When you reach the desired letter or number, press E to enter data to memory. e. Star (*) will prompt you for second character - repeat steps c & d. f. When the name has been entered, press E twice at star (*) to continue with the SET
procedure. Return to step 6 above.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-7 Delete Mode 17
6-7 DELETE Mode This mode is used to delete a satellite entry. 1. Proceed to DEL mode (found in PROGRAMMING Mode Group). 2. Scroll through the ASSIGNED satellite names by pushing A. 3. When the desired satellite name is shown on screen, push E. 4. System will automatically delete this satellite from memory and will return to MAN mode. If it is necessary to delete all satellite positions from memory: a. Scroll MODE to SET mode (section 6-6). b. Access USER entry (see step 5b, page 16) c. Enter CLEAR as a satellite name. d. Press E twice to enter. All satellites in memory will be deleted. (The predefined list of satellite names will still exist, but you will need to reprogram the positions.) 6-8 FIX Mode The FIX feature allows the controller to make a graceful recovery from sensor failure or the unlikely event of an errant pulse count. By using this feature, the user simply has to correct for one satellite location, and the RC1000A automatically will correct all others. 1. While in MAN mode, jog the antenna to a satellite whose location was previously stored
in memory. 2. Proceed to FIX mode (found in PROGRAMMING Mode Group.) 3. Scroll through the list of assigned satellites using the A & B keys until the correct
satellite name is displayed. 4. Press the E key, RESET, to recalibrate all stored satellite locations. 5. The unit will respond with POSITION SET, and then returns to MAN mode.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-9 Speed Mode 18 6-9 SPEED Mode The SPEED feature allows the user to match the drive voltage levels to his particular antenna load. By using this function, the installer can accommodate a wide range of cable runs or antenna load requirements and still maintain an optimum drive level. This feature is applicable to both slow and fast speeds. The system defaults are 11 for slow and 23 for fast. 1. Proceed to SLOW or FAST mode (found in the PROGRAMMING Mode Group.) 2. While referring to Figure 6.9 on the following page, select a speed index to yield an
output voltage, relative to maximum, that will drive the antenna satisfactorily. Use the A & B keys to change the displayed value and the E key to fix it.
3. Try this new value while in the MAN mode to see if the results are satisfactory. If not,
repeat steps 1 & 2. 6-10 AUTO-POL Mode Auto-Pol mode is used to slave the RC1000A polarization toggle to an externally generated signal, normally provided by a commercial receiver. With this mode enabled, the RC1000A will change the antenna's receive polarity as the controlling receiver's channel index is advanced. To implement this control, the user must specify if a high level (example: 12V) or low level (0V) signal coincides with vertical polarization. By pressing the A key, the user selects a low signal level and the RC1000A acknowledges this by changing the lo indication to upper case letters (LO) and the HI to lower case (hi). The opposite is true to select a HI level. Finally, to turn this function on, the user presses the E key to toggle between ON and OFF in the display. When this feature is ON, the CW/CCW keys are disabled in all modes, and the polarization H/V toggle (E key) is disabled in MAN mode. The user can tell if this feature is enabled while in MAN mode, by noting a RCV:__ indication in the lower right corner of the display where POL:__ typically resides. This is shown below.
RC1000A Antenna Controller...........................................................6-9 Speed Mode 19
FIGURE 6.9 DRIVE VOLTAGE RELATIVE TO SPEED INDEX
RC1000A Antenna Controller.......................................7.0 Battery & Fuse Replacement 20
7. BATTERY & FUSE REPLACEMENT The RC1000A requires no periodic maintenance. The only components the user should have to be concerned with under normal circumstances are the fuses and the battery used for memory backup. To prolong battery life and minimize polarotor skew drift problems, the unit should be left on at all times. 7-1A Power Line Fuse Replacement 1. This fuse is located inside the front panel power switch. To replace, first turn the power
switch off and unplug the unit. 2. Push in and turn the power switch counterclockwise about 1/8 of a turn, and gently pull
out the switch assembly from its housing. 3. Pull out the fuse from the back of the switch, and replace it with a standard 3.0 amp, type
AGC fast blow fuse. NO SUBSTITUTE VALUES ARE ACCEPTABLE. Make sure the fuse is firmly seated in the retaining cup.
4. Slide the fuse and switch assembly back into its housing, and turn clockwise to lock in. 5. Plug the unit back in, and turn the power switch on. 7-1B Motor Drive Fuse Refer to page Figure 7.2 for placement of fuse F2. Should the main fuse be good and
the motor drive signals not be present, check this fuse. Its value is 6 amps, type ABC. Be sure to have the unit powered down and the line cord unplugged before replacing this fuse.
RC1000A Antenna Controller.......................................7.0 Battery & Fuse Replacement 21
7-2 Battery Replacement When the display flashes the warning "LOW BATTERY", a new battery should be installed to eliminate memory loss in case of power failure. NOTE: The RAM battery backup circuit is designed to avoid loss of memory if the proper
procedure is followed when changing the battery. The two key elements in this procedure are: (1) actual time spent in changing the battery and (2) keeping the battery holder positive tab from touching the negative contact on the inside of the holder. If the tab is kept isolated from the negative terminal of the holder, changing time is extended to approximately 30 seconds. However, if the tab is allowed to short against the negative terminal, this time is reduced to approximately 10 seconds. Therefore, if it is at all possible, care should be taken during this procedure to hold the tab away from the negative terminal. 1. With the power cord unplugged from the wall outlet, remove the back cover. 2. Carefully remove the battery by lifting up on the holder tab that keeps the battery in
place. Care must be taken in this procedure to prevent damage to any of the surrounding components.
3. Replace with Duracell #DL2450 lithium coin cell. These are often available at local
hardware or electrical supply stores. They can also be obtained from your RC1000A distributor.
AS YOU INSTALL THE NEW BATTERY BE SURE THAT THE POSITIVE SIDE IS FACING UP AND IS IN DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE HOLDER TAB.
4. Replace the back cover. 5. Plug the unit back in and turn the power on. Check to see if the memory is still intact. If
not, it will be necessary to reset the limits and reprogram the memory. Refer to Section 6-5, LIMITS Mode, and 6-6, SET Mode.
RC1000A Antenna Controller.......................................7.0 Battery & Fuse Replacement 22
FIGURE 7.2 COMPONENT LAYOUT
C18
C17
C36
C13
D4
R7
1/4W CARBON FILM
D13
C14
TA
NTA
LUM
D3
1.5AMP RECTIFIER
K2
K1
AC
AC
BR
1
S3
S2
R28 1/4W CARBON FILM
C29 C315 MONO CER
C33
C315 MONO CER
R2
4
1/4
W
CA
RBO
N F
ILM
R2
31/
4W
C
AR B
ON
FIL
M
S9
D1
1.5AMP RECTIFIER D2
1.5AMP RECTIFIERR27
1/4W CARBON FILM
R2
1/ 4 W,METAL FI L M
R3
1/ 4 W,METAL FI L M
C155 13 D AL UM.EL EC.
D5
1.5
AMP
RE
CTIF
IER
R1
2W POWER
J4
R6
1/2W POWER
R8
1/4
W
CA
RBO
N F
ILM
D10
D9
R5
1/2
W P
OW
ER
V4
V6
V5
R18
1/4
W
CA
RBO
N F
ILM
C2
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RC1000A Antenna Controller..................................8.0 Instrument Specifications 23
8.0 INSTRUMENT SPECIFICATIONS A. Initial Inspection - Contents 1. RC1000A Automatic Satellite Antenna Positioner (19"W x 3.50"H x 5.50"D) 10# Inspect the unit for any damage during shipping (i.e., the display is cracked or metal is bent) If so, notify shipper. 2. 12 pin Input/Output Connector
3. Manual B. Power Requirements - 115V AC 60 Cycle, 22W, drive signals inactive
The input power line fuse is a 3.0 amp fast blow. NO SUBSTITUTES ARE ACCEPTABLE. This is the value necessary to protect the motor in the event a mechanical limit is encountered or the drive mechanism becomes jammed.
The drive control line fuse is a 6.0 amps, type ABC, and is referred to as F2 on the component layout schematic on page 28. This value should not be substituted without consulting the factory.
C. Drive Transfer Function
See Figure 8.0.
D. Non-Volatile Memory Battery
Duracell DL2450
RC1000A Antenna Controller..................................8.0 Instrument Specifications 24 FIGURE 8.0 DRIVE TRANSFER FUNCTION
RC2000 Drive Transfer Function (Fast Speed)
05
1015202530354045
0 2 4 6 8 10
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Out
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RC1000A Antenna Controller...............................9.0 Troubleshooting/Error Codes 25
9.0 TROUBLESHOOTING/ERROR CODES ERROR MESSAGES "NO ROOM" - Denotes that the satellite non-volatile memory space is full - in order to enter a new satellite, one must be deleted. When this message appears the user may reset the data for a satellite name that is already in memory. "CW/CCW SKEW LIMIT" - The polarotor probe has reached a limit and cannot be adjusted any further in that direction. "E/W LIMIT" - The antenna is at a polar axis software limit and cannot be moved any further in that direction. "LOW BATTERY" - Denotes that the battery needs to be replaced. "NO DATA" - Denotes the memory is clear. "AZIM COUNT ERROR" - The value for the position count, stored in memory, is corrupted. This generally occurs in one of three possible ways. 1. The battery backup supply is too low to retain the SRAM memory - replace battery. 2. On initial power-up at the factory before the SRAM is cleared.
Should either of these cases occur, the unit needs to be reprogrammed. 3. If the antenna is moving when power is disconnected. This may or may not cause the
problem.
The user should implement the FIX mode, section 6-8, if case 3 occurs. "ANT/SENSOR ERROR" - The unit senses no feedback from the position sensor while the drive signals are present. The RC1000A will shut down if this occurs for two seconds. Check the sensor or antenna for a jammed condition. "INVALID" - This message can occur in AUTO mode. It means the selected satellite position resides outside the software limits and the unit ignores the move command. Check to see if LIMITS have been altered.
Research Concepts RC1000A Remote Commands Here are the commands implemented by the RC1000A. Refer to the RS 422 document for a complete description of the electrical and logical interface characteristics. Revised 9.29.92. Revised 1.30.98 (software version 3.70). File name - SABUS3.TXT. Here are the items which have changed. The Pol command has been modified to allow a host PC to remotely enable or disable the autopol flag. Byte 19 of the query reply reports the status of the autopol flag. The reply to a polarization jog or goto command will be NAK if autopol is enabled. Previously the command would be acknowledged but not executed. The documentation was changed to properly reflect the polarization display symbol. Earlier versions of this document did not accurately associate the numeric code returned as part of the query reply (byte 19) to the polarization symbol displayed on the LCD of the controller. QUERY ID COMMAND The message format for this query will be ... byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '30h' the query command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum
The checksum character is simply the bit-by-bit exclusive OR of all characters in the message starting with the STX character through the ETX character.
The response to this query will consist of 11 bytes, all ascii characters ... byte 0 : ACK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '30h' the query command code bytes 3-6: 'RC1K' bytes 7,8: 'XX' where XX is the version number, for
example if the current software version number were 4.3, XX would be '43'.
byte 9 : ETX byte 10 : 'chksum' the checksum If the command cannot be executed, the RC1000A response will be ... byte 0 : NAK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '30h' the query command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum
QUERY COMMAND This command instructs the RC1000A to send back all data as displayed on the LCD. This includes azimuth and polarization position, satellite name, all limit and status information, error conditions, and comm-link status. The query command message consists of 5 bytes and the format is byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '31h' the query command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum
The response to this command will consist of 24 bytes, which will be a combination of ascii and binary data fields. The binary data will be placed in the lower nybble of a byte whose higher nybble will be initialized to a value which will make the result an ascii character. The idea with this response is to be able to reproduce the information presented on the LCD to the user when manual mode is active. The format of the response will be byte 0 : ACK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '31h' the query command code byte 3 : 'F' or 'N' 'N' if the RC1k is in remote mode
(online), and 'F' (offline) otherwise. Note that if the device is not in remote mode, commands cannot be accepted.
bytes 4-10 : Sat_Name This field will contain the satellite name in upper case letters. If the name does not occupy the entire field the name will be left justified and the string will be padded with blanks. If a satellite name is not currently displayed, this field will contain all blanks.
bytes 11-13: AZ position This field will contain the current azimuth position, formatted in a manner identical to how the position is displayed on the front of the unit, '000' to '999'. Note the azimuth position displayed is not the actual azimuth count, which may be greater than 999. The displayed value is the actual count scaled by the east and west limit counts so that displayed position will always be less than 1000.
bytes 14,15: Pol position This field will contain the current polarization position, formatted in a manner identical to
how the position is displayed on the front of the unit, '00' to '99'.
byte 16 : Limits - Binary Data 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 $ _ _ _ _ w e c c e a c w s s w t t When the bit is set it means ... West the antenna is at the west limit. East the antenna is at the east limit. CCW the polarotor is at the ccw limit. CW the polarotor is at the cw limit. byte 17 : movement status - binary data 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 $ _ _ _ _ w e c c e a c w s s w t t West when set, the antenna is moving west. East when set, the antenna is moving east. ccw cw 0 0 ... the polarotor drive signal is inactive. 0 1 ... the polarotor is being jogged clockwise. 1 0 ... the polarotor is being jogged counter
clockwise. 1 1 ... the polarotor is moving to an established
position
byte 18 : Sat_name display status - binary data - the value of the internal sat$name$display$status$code variable, which indicates the present status of the satellite name display field. In REMOTE or MANUAL mode, if the antenna's present azimuth position matches the position of a satellite in the controllers’ non-volatile memory, the satellite's name will be displayed in upper case letters. If the present azimuth position is close to the position of a satellite in non-volatile memory, the satellite name will be displayed
in lower case letters; otherwise the satellite name is not shown.
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 $ 0 0 _ _ 0 0 sat_name shown in capital
letters 0 1 sat_name displayed in lower
case letters. 1 0 sat_name not displayed. byte 19 : Sat_polarization display status - binary
data - the value of the internal auto$pol$enable$flag and sat$pol$display$status$code variables. The AutoPol feature slaves the RC1000's polarization control output to a digital input from a satellite receiver. This feature is documented in the user's manual. The sat$pol$display$status$code indicates the present status of the satellite polarization display field on the LCD on the front of the unit. In REMOTE or MANUAL mode, an 'H' or 'V' will be displayed if a satellite name is displayed in upper case letters and the present polarization position corresponds to the preset horizontal or vertical polarization for that satellite. Otherwise, an 'h' or a 'v' will be displayed if the present polarization position is in the neighborhood of the preset horizontal or vertical polarization position for the satellite closest to the antenna's present azimuth position. If neither of the two previous cases apply the polarization field will be blank.
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 $ 0 _ _ _ bit 3 _ 0 AutoPol Disabled 1 AutoPol Enabled bits 2 1 0 - - - 0 0 0 'H' displayed 0 0 1 'h' displayed 0 1 0 'V' displayed 0 1 1 'v' displayed 1 0 0 ' ' (blank) displayed
byte 20 : Sat_azimuth_position display status - binary data - the value of the internal variable, az$position$display$status$code, which indicates the present status of the azimuth position display field on the LCD on the front of the unit. In REMOTE or MANUAL mode, the azimuth field will usually display the antenna's present azimuth position. When the polarization is jogged, this field will contain the PXX where XX is the polarization position.
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 $ 0 0 _ _ 0 0 az_position displayed 0 1 pol_position displayed 1 0 nothing displayed in
the azimuth position field.
byte 21 : error status - binary data 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 ant$errors: 0 0 1 0 $ 0 _ _ _ j a b a z a m t when the bit is set, it means ... Jam ... the antenna is jammed/no sensor
feedback. AZ .... the azimuth count is corrupted. Bat ... a low battery indication has been
received. byte 22 : ETX byte 23 : 'chksum' the checksum If the command cannot be executed, the RC1000A response will be byte 0 : NAK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '31h' the query command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum
QUERY NAME COMMAND This query command instructs the RC1000A to send back to the host computer an indexed satellite name and azimuth position count from the list of located satellites stored in non-volatile memory. This list is comprised of those satellites that were saved via the SET mode in the RC1000A. A maximum of 50 can be in the list. This query command contains 7 bytes and the format is byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '35h' the query command code bytes 3,4 : 'XX' where XX is the index of the satellite name
being requested. Normally this would be '01' the first time thru and then incremented until the 'YY' (YY being the last entry in the list.) satellite name is read.
byte 5 : ETX byte 6 : 'chksum" the checksum The normal response to this query command contains 19 bytes and the format is as follows ... byte 0 : ACK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '35h' the query command code bytes 3,4 : 'XX' where XX is the index of the satellite
name being requested. bytes 5,6 : 'YY' where YY is the total number of satellite
names contained in the list. bytes 7-13 : This field will contain the satellite name. bytes 14-16: This field will contain the satellite azimuth
position count - 000 to 999. byte 17 : ETX byte 18 : 'chksum' the checksum
If the command cannot be executed, the RC1000A response will be ... byte 0 : NAK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '35h' the query command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum AUTO COMMAND This command specifies that the controller move the antenna to a satellite. The command contains 13 bytes. Here is the format ... byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '32h' the command code byte 3 polarization This field can specify 'H', 'V'
or ' ' (blank). If this field contains a blank there is no polarization adjustment. If this field contains 'H' or 'V' the polarotor is driven to the satellite's preset horizontal or vertical position.
byte 4-10 sat_name This field specifies the satellite
name. The sat_name should be in capital letters and left justified within this field. If necessary, the name can be padded with blanks to fill the entire field.
byte 11 : ETX byte 12 : 'chksum' the checksum The reply to this command will be the same as the reply to the QUERY command except that the command code field will be '32h'. AZIMUTH JOG COMMAND This command jogs the antenna in azimuth. The command contains 11 bytes. Here is the format of the command byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '33h' the command code byte 3 : direction This field can specify 'E', 'W', or
'X'. 'E' refers to east and 'W' to west. An 'X' specifies that the antenna stop moving.
byte 4 : speed This field specifies the jog speed, either 'F' (Fast) or 'S' (Slow). Note that this field must contain a
valid value even if the direction field specifies 'X' (Stop).
bytes 5-8 : duration This field specifies the duration of the azimuth jog command in milliseconds. The valid range of values for this field is '0000' to '9999'. As a practical matter, the resolution of the timer used to time the move is approximately 150 milliseconds, so any move will be for a time interval equal to a multiple of approx. 150 milliseconds. Note that this command must contain a valid value even if the direction field specifies 'X' (Stop).
byte 9 : ETX byte 10 : 'chksum' the checksum The reply to this command will be the same as the reply to the QUERY command except that the command code will be '33h'. POLARIZATION COMMAND The following command specifies a polarization jog. The command contains 6 bytes. Byte 3 can contain one of the following values... 'C'... jog the polarization clockwise. 'W'... jog the polarization counter clockwise. Note that
there is not a duration or a speed associated with these commands. The duration is fixed and the speed increases as the polarization continues it's movement without being interrupted. An interruption occurs if another command does not arrive before the previous polarization command terminates.
'H'... move the polarotor to the preset horizontal position of the satellite closest to the antenna's present azimuth position.
'V'... move the polarotor to the preset vertical position of the satellite closest to the antenna's present azimuth position.
'F'... Disable the AutoPol function. 'N'... Enable the AutoPol function. The format of the command code is as follows ... byte 0 : STX byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '34h' the command code byte 3 : 'X' the polarization command parameter byte 4 : ETX byte 5 : 'chksum' the checksum
If the AutoPol feature is enabled and the command parameter is 'H', 'V', 'C', or 'W' the NAK reply will be sent to the host. byte 0 : NAK byte 1 : 'AA' where AA is the RC1000A address byte 2 : '34h' the command code byte 3 : ETX byte 4 : 'chksum' the checksum If the command can be executed the reply to this command will be the same as the reply to the QUERY command except the command code will '34h'.