M-01355, Rev. B
CruiseTV
STS / RV Version
In-Motion Satellite Television System
User’s Guide
Includes:
– 100 Series Antennas
– 200 Series Antennas
IMPORTANT!
DO NOT OPERATE THIS SYSTEM
WITHOUT FIRST READING
SECTIONS 3 & 7 OF THIS MANUAL.
M-01355, Rev. B
NOTICE!!
Important Warranty Information
Keep this User Guide with the Antenna
System at all times.
For Customer Service, contact an Authorized Service Center
nearest you, or call Datron at 1-(800)-287-5052.
M-01355, Rev. B
Page 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................2
1.1 What to Expect While Operating the STS......................................................... 2
1.2 Features of your STS ........................................................................................2
2. SYSTEM OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................3
2.1 Antenna/Radome Assembly..............................................................................3
2.2 Antenna Control Unit (ACU) .............................................................................. 3
2.3 Satellite Receiver............................................................................................... 3
3. SYSTEM OPERATION..................................................................................................5
3.1 General.............................................................................................................. 5
3.2 Powering On the System...................................................................................6
3.3 First Time Start-Up ............................................................................................ 6
3.4 Automatic Satellite Signal Acquisition and Tracking..........................................6
3.5 Power Conservation Mode ................................................................................ 7
3.5 Instant On Mode................................................................................................7
3.7 Operating Tips...................................................................................................7
4. REGULAR SERVICE AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE..........................................9
5. SPECIFICATIONS.........................................................................................................9
5.1 Mechanical ........................................................................................................ 9
5.2 Electrical............................................................................................................ 9
6. TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................10
7. COMPASS CALIBRATION .......................................................................................... 11
7.1 Calibrating the Compass without a Computer...............................................11
8. PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................................................... 12
9. GLOSSARY................................................................................................................ 13
10. WARRANTY................................................................................................................14
1. Introduction
M-01355, Rev. B
Page 2
Thank you for purchasing CruiseTV
STS. You now own the most advanced automatic satellite
system available, providing access of more than 200 channels of digital television and CD quality
audio programming while your vehicle is in motion. The STS is specially designed for Direct
Broadcast Satellite (DBS) television viewing while traveling on highways and thoroughfares in the
lower 48 states when your antenna has a clear view to the southern sky.
1.1 What to Expect While Operating the STS
The STS works best on open stretches of road, but may surprise you with its in-town capabilities. As
you drive your STS you will learn its characteristics and how it works best for you. If you encounter
any conditions that you don’t expect, just contact us at 1-800-287-5052 and we will discuss them
with you.
1.2 Features of your STS
♦ Automatic signal acquisition from anywhere in the Continental United States on roads with an
unobstructed view to the DBS satellite in the southern sky.
♦ Automatic satellite tracking and TV viewing while your vehicle is in motion
♦ Low profile – only 9.5” tall
♦ Continuous slip ring operation
♦ Compatibility with all DirecTV type receivers
♦ Power conservation mode when vehicle is parked
♦ On-board compass locates satellite quickly
♦ Instant ON mode
This User’s Guide describes the operation and use of the STS satellite system. Operation of your
satellite receiver is covered in your receiver’s operating instructions.
Please take the time to read this booklet completely. Your new CruiseTV STS system by Datron
represents the very latest in satellite tracking technology. Therefore it is very important that you
understand the proper operation of both your receiver and your satellite antenna system.
M-01355, Rev. B
Page 3
2. System Overview
Your Datron STS is specifically designed for use with the new high-power DBS television satellites.
These satellites have revolutionized television in the United States and have made DBS television
receiving systems the fastest selling consumer electronics product in history.
The STS has been designed for simplicity of operation with the latest solid-state satellite tracking
technology and advanced computer software, providing you with true value and years of
entertainment enjoyment. There are three main components to the satellite system as discussed
below.
2.1 Antenna/Radome Assembly
The STS uses a specially designed 4 dish x 8” phased array and an LNBF to receive the DBS
satellite’s signals. The antenna and its drive motors are covered by a low-profile protective cover
called a radome. The dish is automatically and continuously pointed at the satellite by the antenna
control electronics while the vehicle rolls down the road. The radome is specially designed and
molded from a material that is strong and lightweight and must not be painted with metallic based
paints. The metallic content of many paints will severely impair system performance.
2.2 Antenna Control Unit (ACU)
The ACU is located under the radome. The ACU contains the motion sensing electronics that keeps
the antenna accurately pointed at the satellite as the vehicle turns, sways and rolls over bumps. Your
only interface with the ACU is “ON” or “OFF” through the remote switch in your vehicle.
2.3 Satellite Receiver
The final component part of the system, other than your television monitor, is the satellite receiver.
Please note that Datron does not manufacture receivers. All DirecTV type receivers are compatible
with the CruiseTV STS.