EXPLORER 8000 series
Drive-Away VSAT Terminal
User & installation manual
EXPLORER 8000 series
Drive-Away VSAT Terminal
User & installation manual
Document number: 98-145510-E
Release date: 8 June 2017
Disclaimer
Any responsibility or liability for loss or damage in connection with the use of this product and the
accompanying documentation is disclaimed by Thrane & Thrane A/S. The information in this manual is
provided for information purposes only, is subject to change without notice and may contain errors or
inaccuracies. Manuals issued by Thrane & Thrane A/S are periodically revised and updated. Anyone
relying on this information should acquire the most current version e.g. from www.cobham.com/satcom,
Cobham SYNC Partner Portal, or from the distributor. Thrane & Thrane A/S is not responsible for the
content or accuracy of any translations or reproductions, in whole or in part, of this manual from any
other source. In the event of any discrepancies, the English version shall be the governing text.
Thrane & Thrane A/S is trading as Cobham SATCOM.
Copyright
© 2017 Thrane & Thrane A/S. All rights reserved.
Manufacturer address
Thrane & Thrane A/S, Lundtoftegaardsvej 93 D, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
Trademark acknowledgements
• EXPLORER is a registered trademark of Thrane & Thrane A/S in the European Union and the United
States.
• Other product and company names mentioned in this manual may be trademarks or trade names of
their respective owners.
ii 98-145510-E
Safety summary
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation,
service and repair of this equipment. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific
warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of design, manufacture and
intended use of the equipment, and will void the warranty. Thrane & Thrane A/S assumes no
liability for the customer's failure to comply with these requirements.
WARNING! Heavy weight - Do not attempt to lift the antenna alone! Use
two or more persons or a lifting device. The antenna can weigh up to 70 kg and
is difficult to handle.
WARNING! Hazardous moving parts - keep fingers and other body parts
away from the antenna while the system is powered!
WARNING! Be aware of pinch points while the antenna is being positioned,
deployed or stowed.
Power supply
The voltage range for the EXPLORER 8000 series is 100 – 240 VAC (nominal), 50/60 Hz. The
socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be accessible. See also System
power supply range (input via ACU) and Total system power consumption on page A-1.
WARNING! Before disassembling or performing any maintenance or upgrades,
unplug the unit from the power source.
Grounding
WARNING! Always connect your ACU to the safety ground of your
power source (e.g. generator, inverter, line outlet etc.).
Do not operate in an explosive atmosphere
WARNING! Do not operate the equipment in the presence of flammable gases
or fumes. Operation of any electrical equipment in such an environment
constitutes a definite safety hazard.
Keep away from live circuits
Operating personnel must not remove equipment covers. Component replacement and internal
adjustment must be made by qualified maintenance personnel. Do not replace components
with the power cable connected. Under certain conditions, dangerous voltages may exist even
98-145510-E iii
with the power cable removed. To avoid injuries, always disconnect power and discharge
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circuits before touching them.
Install and use the antenna with care
Thrane & Thrane A/S assumes no liability for any damage caused by the antenna falling off the
vehicle or stressing the mounting base. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure a safe
and correct installation of the antenna. The instructions in this manual are only guidelines.
Service
User access to the interior of the system units is not allowed. Only a technician authorized by
Cobham SATCOM may perform service - failure to comply with this rule will void the warranty.
Microwave radiation hazards
During transmission the antenna radiates Microwave Power.This radiation may be hazardous to
humans close to the antenna. During transmission, make sure that nobody gets closer than the
recommended minimum safety distance.
WARNING! This device emits radio frequency energy. Do not place
your head or other body parts between transmitting feed horn and
reflector when the system is operational. Also do not place any objects
between feed horn and reflector, as the object may reflect the signal in a
different direction than the focal line.
The minimum safe distance applies in a cylinder between the reflector and satellite, parallel
with the feed arm (see Figure 1 below). No hazard exists at the back of the reflector. The safe
distance varies with the BUC version and the reflector size, see T
able 1 on the next page.
Figure 1: Radiation area
98-145510-E iv
Minimum safe distances:
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
Safety Distance [m]
EXPLORER 8120
EXPLORER 8100
Safe distance,
trained professional
operators, short
b
term
Diameter
of radiation
area
Product Variant
Safe distance,
General
a
public
EXPLORER 8100 Ku-band, 8 W BUC 30 m 1 m
Ku-band, 20 W BUC 49 m 1 m
1200 mm
Ku-band, no BUC Depends on BUC, see Figure 2 below
Ka-band 36 m 1 m
EXPLORER 8120 Ku-band, 8 W BUC 35 m 1 m 1400 mm
Ku-band, 20 W BUC 58 m 1 m
Ku-band, no BUC Depends on BUC, see Figure 2 below
Table 1: Minimum safe distances
a. Uncontrolled environment, based on a radiation level of 10 W/m
b. Controlled environment, based on a radiation level of 100 W/m
2
2
For different BUCs for the EXPLORER 8120, read the safe distance below in Figure 2.
Figure 2: EXPLORER 8120 Safety distance versus BUC power
98-145510-E v
Antenna clearance space
Antenna clearance space
R1195
[47.0]
Ø2390
[94.1]
[9.7]
246
830
[32.7]
Ø2390
[94.1]
232
1427
997997
[39.3] [39.3]
[56.2]
[9.1]
Measures are in millimeter
[inches in brackets]. Add a
little extra security margin.
Mechanical “stay-clear” area, EXPLORER 8100
WARNING! Stay clear of the antenna when it is powered! The antenna
dish can move quickly across a large area, and can cause injury to persons
close to the antenna. When the antenna is powered, make sure nobody
gets closer than the limits of the “Stay-clear area” shown below.
Figure 3: Stay-clear area for the EXPLORER 8100 antenna
98-145510-E vi
Mechanical “stay-clear” area, EXPLORER 8120
Antenna clearance space
Antenna clearance space
Ø2800
[110.2]
[17.8]
453
1035
[40.7]
Ø2800
[110.2]
233
1633
1199
[47.2]
[64.3]
[9.2]
Measures are in millimeter
[inches in brackets]. Add a
little extra security margin.
R1400
[55.1]
1199
[47.2]
WARNING! Stay clear of the antenna when it is powered! The antenna
dish can move quickly across a large area, and can cause injury to persons
close to the antenna. When the antenna is powered, make sure nobody
gets closer than the limits of the “Stay-clear area” shown below.
Figure 4: Stay-clear area for the EXPLORER 8120 antenna
98-145510-E vii
Table of contents
Chapter 1 About this manual
1.1 Manual overview ...................................................................................................................1-1
1.2 Precautions ................................................................................................................................1-2
Chapter 2 Introduction
2.1 EXPLORER 8000 series Drive-Away VSAT System ...................................... 2-1
2.2 Description of the system components .............................................................2-3
2.3 Part numbers ......................................................................................................................... 2-10
Chapter 3 Installation
3.1 To unpack the system ......................................................................................................3-1
3.2 To install the EXPLORER 8000 series ....................................................................3-2
Chapter 4 Interfaces
4.1 Interfaces of the Antenna Control Unit (ACU) .............................................4-1
4.2 Interfaces of the antenna .............................................................................................4-8
4.3 Interfaces of the VSAT modem .............................................................................4-10
Chapter 5 Initial setup and basic functions
5.1 To drive with the antenna installed ......................................................................5-1
5.2 Prerequisites for installation .......................................................................................5-1
5.3 Initial setup ..............................................................................................................................5-3
5.4 Start up and basic functions .......................................................................................5-3
Chapter 6 Setup and operation
6.1 The web interface ................................................................................................................6-1
6.2 Keypad and display menus ........................................................................................ 6-27
6.3 SNMP support ......................................................................................................................6-33
Chapter 7 Service and maintenance
7.1 General support .....................................................................................................................7-1
7.2 Software update ....................................................................................................................7-4
7.3 Status signalling with LEDs and status messages .......................................7-7
7.4 To stow and unfold the antenna manually ......................................................7-9
7.5 BUC installation .................................................................................................................. 7-13
7.6 Replace the antenna or ACU ....................................................................................7-20
7.7 To return units for repair ............................................................................................ 7-20
98-145510-E viii
Appendix A Technical specifications
A.1 General specifications ......................................................................................................A-1
A.2 Antenna specifications ....................................................................................................A-2
A.3 Specifications for User I/O connector .................................................................A-5
A.4 VSAT LNB Data Sheet (physical LNB) ...................................................................A-6
A.5 VSAT 8W BUC Data Sheet (Extended) .................................................................A-7
A.6 VSAT 20W BUC Data Sheet (Extended) ..............................................................A-9
A.7 ViaSat eTRIA .........................................................................................................................A-11
A.8 Antenna dimensions .......................................................................................................A-12
A.9 ACU specifications ...........................................................................................................A-18
A.10 ACU dimensions .................................................................................................................A-19
Appendix B VSAT modem cables
B.1 Modem Cable COMTECH Serial & RSSI TT7016A .......................................B-2
Table of contents
B.2 iDirect & SkyEdge II VSAT modem serial cable ...........................................B-3
Appendix C VSAT modem settings
C.1 OpenAMIP setup for iDirect iNFINITI & Evolution ..................................C-2
C.2 OpenAMIP setup for Generic OpenAMIP VSAT modems .................. C-16
C.3 Serial setup for iDirect iNFINITI & Evolution ............................................C-20
C.4 COMTECH 570L ...................................................................................................................C-24
C.5 STM SatLink 2900 VSAT modem ...........................................................................C-27
C.6 Gilat SkyEdge II VSAT modem ...............................................................................C-30
Appendix D Command line interface
D.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................D-1
D.2 Supported commands .....................................................................................................D-3
Appendix E System messages
E.1 Event messages – overview .......................................................................................... E-1
E.2 Lists of events ......................................................................................................................... E-2
Appendix F Approvals
F.1 EXPLORER 8100 .....................................................................................................................F-1
F.2 EXPLORER 8120 .....................................................................................................................F-6
Glossary ..............................................................................................................................................................Glossary-1
Index ....................................................................................................................................................................Index-1
98-145510-E ix
Chapter 1
About this manual
1.1 Manual overview
This manual has the following chapters:
• Introduction
• Installation
• Interfaces
• I nitial setup and basic functions
• Setup and operation
• Service and maintenance
This manual has the following appendices:
• Technical specifications
• VSAT mod em cables
• VSAT modem settings
• Command lin e interfa ce
1
• System messages
• DVB-S/DVB-S2 satellites for Ku-Band
• Approvals
1.1.1 Intended readers
This is an installation and user manual for the EXPLORER 8100 and EXPLORER 8120
systems, intended for installers and users of the system. It is important that you observe all
safety requirements listed in the beginning of this manual, and install and use the system
according to the guidelines in this manual.
Service that requires access to the interior of the system units may only be performed by a
technician authorized by Cobham SATCOM.
1.1.2 Software version
This manual is intended for EXPLORER 8100 and EXPLORER 8120 with software version
1.58 (Antenna and ACU). The modem software version is shown in its own web interface.
98-145510-E 1-1
1.1.3 Typography
In this manual, typography is used as indicated below:
Bold is used for the following purposes:
• To emphasize words.
Example: “Do not touch the antenna”.
• To indicate what the user should select in the user interface.
Example: “Select SETTINGS > LAN”.
Italic is used to emphasize the paragraph title in cross-references.
1.2 Precautions
Text marked with “Warning”, “Caution”, “Note” or “Important” show the following type of
data:
• Warning: A Warning is an operation or maintenance procedure that, if not obeyed, can
cause injury or death.
• Caution: A Caution is an operation or maintenance procedure that, if not obeyed, can
cause damage to the equipment.
Precautions
• Note: A Note gives information to help the reader.
• Important: A text marked Important gives information that is important to the user,
e.g. to make the system work properly. This text does not concern damage on
equipment or personal safety.
All personnel who operate equipment or do maintenance as specified in this manual must
know and follow the safety precautions. The warnings and cautions that follow apply to all
parts of this manual.
See also the Safety summary on page iii.
WARNING! Before using any material, refer to the manufacturers’
material safety data sheets for safety information. Some materials can be
dangerous.
CAUTION! Do not use materials that are not equivalent to materials
specified by Cobham SATCOM. Materials that are not equivalent can cause
damage to the equipment.
98-145510-E Chapter 1: About this manual 1-2
Chapter 2
Introduction
This chapter has the following sections:
• EXPLORER 8000 series Drive-Away VSAT System
• Description of the system components
•Part numbers
2.1 EXPLORER 8000 series Drive-Away VSAT System
2.1.1 Overview
The EXPLORER 8000 series is a series of drive-away VSAT antenna systems for vehicle roof
mounting. It comes in the following versions:
• EXPLORER 8100 (1 m reflector):
• Ku Band with 8 W BUC
• Ku Band with 20 W BUC
• Ku Band with no BUC
• Ka Band (Viasat eTRIA)
2
• EXPLORER 8120 (1.2 m reflector):
• Ku Band with 8 W BUC
• Ku Band with 20 W BUC
• Ku Band with no BUC
98-145510-E 2-1
EXPLORER 8000 series Drive-Away VSAT System
Reflector
RF assembly
Antenna positioner
ACU with keypad
and display
Modem with LAN
ports (Example)
Figure 1: Major system components, example with EXPLORER 8100
The auto-deploy system allows personnel with minimal satellite experience to easily
configure and operate this terminal enabling the user to access any broadband application
over satellite.
The EXPLORER VSAT systems are easy to install, set up, and commission by a non-specialist
technician. The system has the following system units:
1. One 2-axis semi-stabilized antenna for either Ku or Ka VSAT satellites.
2. One 1-Rack-Unit Antenna Control Unit (ACU) containing keypad and display and
LAN/WLAN ports for system access and internal communication.
VSAT modem: Apart from the two units that make up the EXPLORER VSAT system, you
need a VSAT modem to provide the IP services on the RF link. For a list of supported VSAT
modems see VSAT modem unit on page 2-9.
The antenna provides a stable RF link and the modem provides services on the RF link.
2.1.2 Satellite service
The EXPLORER 8100 operates in the Ku-band (10.7 to 14.5 GHz) or the Ka-band (Viasat
eTRIA,19.7 to 30 GHz), depending on the EXPLORER 8100 model.
The EXPLORER 8120 operates in the Ku-band (10.7 to 14.5 GHz).
Service capabilities are determined by the connected VSAT modem.
2.1.3 Service activation
The service is activated by your service provider. For details, contact your service provider.
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-2
Description of the system components
Emergency stop
button
Control box
Elevation drive
Azimuth drive
Connectors
Manual stow and
unfold access
Stow lock release
(only on early
EXPLORER 8100)
2.2 Description of the system components
2.2.1 Antenna pedestal/positioner
Antenna pointing is achieved with a 2-axis semi-stabilized pedestal. The Azimuth drive
comprises a dual gear and belt drives, the Elevation drive a dual gear. Both drives have a
manual stow function. An emergency stop button is placed on the side of the antenna.
Figure 2: EXPLORER 8100 antenna system components, part 1
The location of the EXPLORER 8120 system components is the same as on the
8100 shown above.
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-3
EXPLORER
Description of the system components
Reflector
GNSS antenna
Feed system
Stow brackets with
rubber bumpers
Mounting brackets
Base frame
Reflector
GNSS antenna
Feed system
Stow brackets with
rubber bumpers
Mounting brackets
Base frame
Deployment of the antenna unfolds the Reflector- and Feed support structure. The Feed
position is controlled by 2 gas-springs, which are compressed when the antenna is in
stowed position. Internal cable-wraps are included in both drives, whereas the Feed and
GNSS antenna connecting cables are exposed on the Feed Support Structure.
Figure 3: EXPLORER 8100 antenna system components, part 2
Figure 4: EXPLORER 8120 antenna system components, part 2
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-4
2.2.2 RF assembly
Ku-Horn with Polarization drive
LNB
BUC
OMT
FWG
eTRIA
The RF assembly varies depending on the antenna type. The following pages show the RF
assemblies for EXPLORER 8100 Ku-Band, EXPLORER 8120 Ku-Band and EXPLORER 8100 KaBand.
Ku-Band RF assembly
The Ku version features a distributed RF system with a Block Up Converter (BUC) placed in
the middle of the Feed support structure, connected to the Feed (Ortho Mode Transducer
(OMT)/Low Noise Blockdown converter (LNB)) via a Flexible Wave Guide (FWG). A motor
driven Polarizer is present.
Description of the system components
The location of the RF components are the same on the EXPLORER 8120 as on the
EXPLORER 8100 shown above.
Ka-Band RF assembly
In the Ka Eutelsat/Viasat version, the components in the RF assembly are integrated in a
monolithic Transmit and Receive Integrated Assembly (eTRIA) unit, placed at the end of
the Feed arm. For specifications on the eTRIA, see ViaSat eTRIA on page A-11.
Figure 5: Components of the EXPLORER 8100 Ku-Band RF assembly
Figure 6: Components of the Ka-Band RF assembly
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-5
2.2.3 Antenna Control Unit (ACU)
ACU
The ACU manages all communication between the antenna and the connected modem.
The ACU has status LEDs, a display and a keypad. It also provides a flexible configurable
LAN interface (DHCP client/server, static IP address etc.) and a built-in web interface for
configuration of the system. The ACU comes in two versions, a 500 W version and a
1000 W version.
Figure 7: ACU front panel
For details of the interfaces of the ACU, see Interfaces of the Antenna Control Unit (ACU)
on page 4-1.
Description of the system components
Figure 8: ACU connector panel
2.2.4 Keypad and display
Using the keypad and display on the ACU you can deploy, stow and stop the antenna,
including monitoring the system (warnings, errors and information). See Keypad and
display menus on page 6-27 for a full list of menus and details on how to use the display
and keypad.
The menus show how the system has been configured. You can also see events (warnings,
errors and information). Signal strength indication is rendered on the display as 7 blocks on
the main display.
Figure 9: Keypad and display (detailed, example)
The display has a two line menu system. The display also supports two status lines (Upper
and Lower) for compact satellite and antenna information. For a description of the LED light
indicators see LEDs on the keypad of the ACU on page 7-8.
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-6
2.2.5 Web interface
The VSAT system has a built-in web interface, which has two levels:
• Mobile web interface, used for basic operations and status. Accessed from a
smartphone or tablet.
• Computer web interface, used for configuration, line-up, troubleshooting, extended
status information etc. Accessed from a computer.
Mobile web interface
When you access the web interface from a smartphone or tablet you get access to the
mobile web interface, which offers the following basic operations and status:
• Deploy, Stow and Stop the antenna
• Activate satellite profile
• See status and events
• Access the full web interface
Description of the system components
To access the mobile web interface:
1. Connect your smartphone or tablet to the WLAN access point of the ACU. For
information on WLAN setup see WLAN settings on page 6-16.
2. In the browser of your smartphone or tablet, type in the IP address for the web
interface. By default the IP address is http://192.168.0.1.
Figure 10: Mobile web interface, for basic operation
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-7
Web interface for setup and troubleshooting
To fully configure the VSAT system, use a computer with a standard Internet browser to
access the built-in web interface.
The web interface is mainly used for calibration of the system, first-time setup of satellite
and modem profiles, setup of the LAN ports, WLAN use and administrating admin and guest
access rights. You can also deploy, stow and stop the antenna, and monitor the system
(warnings, errors and information) with the web interface.
The web interface can be accessed using LAN or WLAN, if configured. see WLAN settings
on page 6-16. Note that you must use the LAN connection when you first configure the
WLAN interface.
To access the web interface:
1. Connect your computer to the LAN 1 or WLAN interface. For details on LAN/WLAN
interface setup see To configure the LAN network on page 6-14.
2. Enter the IP address for the web interface. The default IP address is http://192.168.0.1.
For details about further configuration and use, see Setup and operation on page 6-1.
Description of the system components
Figure 11: Web interface, DASHBOARD (example, EXPLORER 8100 Ku-Band)
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-8
2.2.6 LAN ports and WLAN
The ACU has five configurable LAN connectors (type RJ45). LAN 2, LAN 3 and LAN 5 are
switched, i.e. the configuration for LAN 5 also applies to LAN 2 and LAN 3.
The default configuration is as follows:
• LAN 1 is used for system control via the web interface.
If you want to use the front connector instead of LAN 1, connect the short LAN cable
(37-206570-025) between LAN 1 and LAN X (Front) in the connector panel. LAN X is
internally connected to the front LAN connector.
• LAN 5 is used to connect to the VSAT modem.
• LAN 4 is configured as a DHCP client.
The ACU has a WLAN module. Access to one of the LAN ports using WLAN must be set up
in the web interface, see To configure the LAN network on page 6-14.
2.2.7 Power supply
Description of the system components
The power input for the ACU and modem is specified as follows: Nominal:100-240 VAC,
50/60 Hz, using IEC320 connector. The antenna is powered by the ACU.
2.2.8 VSAT modem unit
The EXPLORER 8000 series is designed to be operated with third-party VSAT modems.
VSAT modems for Ku Band
The following VSAT modems are supported: for Ku-Band:
• iDirect OpenAMIP (iNFINITY/Evolution)
• iDirect Serial (iNFINITY/Evolution)
• Comtech CDM-570/625
•Gilat SkyEdge II
•STM SatLink 2900
Additional VSAT modems may also be supported using the “Generic modem” or “Generic
OpenAMIP” setup in the web interface of the VSAT system.
• Generic OpenAMIP: Used for OpenAMIP modems that are not in the dropdown list
(e.g. Newtec). This profile uses the information from the modem.
• Generic modem: Used for other modems that are not in the list. You must enter the
information manually in this profile.
A Service modem profile is also available, e.g. for situations where a reference satellite is
needed, see To use a reference satellite (Ku only) on page 6-9.
VSAT modem for Ka Band
The following VSAT modem is supported for Ka-Band:
•Surfbeam II Pro
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-9
2.3 Part numbers
2.3.1 EXPLORER 8100 system
System part numbers
The following EXPLORER 8100 system part numbers are available:
Part number Description ACU Antenna
Part numbers
408157A-50013 EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
System
(no BUC, 1000 W ACU)
408157A-50211 EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
System
(8 W BUC, 500 W ACU)
408157A-50313 EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
System
(20 W BUC, 1000 W ACU)
408157B-50551 EXPLORER 8100 Ka VSAT
System
Table 2-12: System part numbers for the EXPLORER 8100 systems
Conversion kits
The following conversion kits are available for the EXPLORER 8100 system:
Part number Description
408157A-100 EXPLORER 8100 eTRIA Conversion Kit
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 1000 W
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 500 W
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 1000 W
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 500 W
EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
Antenna (no BUC)
EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
Antenna (8 W BUC)
EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT
Antenna (20 W BUC)
EXPLORER 8100 Ka VSAT
Antenna (Viasat eTria)
408157B-100 EXPLORER 8100 Ku Conversion Kit
408157A-200 EXPLORER 8100 20W BUC Kit
Table 2-13: Conversion kit part numbers for the EXPLORER 8100 systems
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-10
2.3.2 EXPLORER 8120 system
System part numbers
The following EXPLORER 8120 system part numbers are available:
Part number Description ACU Antenna
Part numbers
408158A-50013 EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
System
(No BUC, 1000 W ACU)
408158A-50211 EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
System
(8 W BUC, 500 W ACU)
408158A-50313 EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
System
(20 W BUC, 1000 W ACU)
Table 2-14: System part numbers for the EXPLORER 8120 systems
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 1000 W
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 500 W
EXPLORER Antenna
Control Unit, 1000 W
EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
Antenna (No BUC)
EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
Antenna (8 W BUC)
EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT
Antenna (20 W BUC)
98-145510-E Chapter 2: Introduction 2-11
Chapter 3
Installation
This chapter has the following sections:
•To unpack the system
• To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
3.1 To unpack the system
The antenna is attached to the bottom of the transport box. To unpack the antenna you
must remove the screws attaching the antenna to the packing material.
WARNING! Heavy weight - Do not attempt to lift the antenna alone! Use
two or more persons or a lifting device. The antenna can weigh up to 70 kg and
is difficult to handle.
CAUTION! Do not lift the antenna by the small metal bar on the back of
the reflector. It is not designed to hold the weight of the antenna.
3
3.1.1 What’s in the box
CAUTION! For early versions of EXPLORER 8100 only: Do not
manually unfold the antenna without first releasing the stow lock! If it is
necessary to unfold the antenna in order to access the screws attaching the
antenna to the packing material, you must first release the stow lock as
described in Manual unfolding on page 7-11.
Unpack the antenna and ACU and check that the following items are present:
• EXPLORER 8100 Ku VSAT antenna (no BUC, 8 W BUC or 20 W BUC), or
EXPLORER 8100 Ka VSAT antenna (Viasat eTRIA), or
EXPLORER 8120 Ku VSAT antenna (no BUC, 8 W BUC or 20 W BUC)
• EXPLORER Antenna Control Unit (ACU) (500 W or 1000 W)
•With the ACU:
• AC Power cord 1.8 m, US wall plug (37-207152-000)
• AC Mains cable 1.8 m, Schuko (Euro) wall plug (37-207148-000)
• Ethernet cable 2 m (37-203213-A)
• Short Ethernet cable 0.25 m (37-206570-025)
• WLAN antenna (88-139591-A)
•WLAN TNC key for mounting the WLAN antenna (41-140645-C)
• Quick guide (98-146768)
98-145510-E 3-1
• With the antenna:
• Cable harness, antenna to ACU and modem, 10 m (37-145530)
• Hand crank for manual operation (62-147900)
• Hex L key 4 X 142 mm for manual operation (covers and stow lock) (51-207294-000)
• For antenna installation: 6 mounting brackets (41-145536-A) and Thule rail adapter
(41-145220-A), nylon lock nuts and washers
• Ka only: F-to-SMA adapter for connection to modem (31-207170-000)
• Safety sheet (99-150490)
3.1.2 Initial inspection
Inspect the shipping cartons and wooden box immediately upon receipt for evidence of
damage during transport. If the shipping material is severely damaged or water stained,
request that the carrier's agent be present when opening the cartons and wooden box. Save
all packing material for future use.
WARNING! To avoid electric shock, do not apply power to the system
if there is any sign of shipping damage to any part of the front or rear
panel or the outer cover. Read the safety summary at the front of this
manual before installing or operating the system.
To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
After unpacking the system, i.e. removing the top and sides of the wooden box and opening
the cartons, inspect it thoroughly for hidden damage and loose components or fittings. If
the contents are incomplete, if there is mechanical damage or defect, or if the system does
not work properly, notify your dealer.
3.2 To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
3.2.1 Prerequisites
Vehicle
The antenna is intended for installation on a vehicle, taking advantage of the vehicle’s
suspension system during transport. Inadequate or no suspension, e.g. trailer mount, will
require special measures - contact your dealer or factory before such installation.
Make sure the vehicle and roof rails are approved to carry the weight of the antenna. See
Weights and measures on page A-3.
Magnetizable material
When you install the antenna, make sure the amount of magnetizable material close to the
antenna is as small as possible, as magnetizable material could interfere with the
magnetometer and affect the precision of the system. If in doubt, make a test setup prior to
final manufacture of the supporting structure.
Line of sight
The antenna should be installed in such a way that no objects on the vehicle can block the
line of sight from the antenna in any direction.
98-145510-E Chapter 3: Installation 3-2
To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
This end towards the
front of the vehicle
Mechanical obstructions
Make sure there are no objects on the vehicle that can obstruct the mechanical movement
of the antenna. Preferably do not place any objects within the stay-clear area shown in
page vi. If you cannot avoid objects inside the stay clear area, you must define a blocking
zone. For details, see Blocking zones on page 6-11.
3.2.2 Installation of the antenna on the vehicle
WARNING! Heavy weight - Do not attempt to lift the antenna alone! Use
two or more persons or a lifting device. The antenna can weigh up to 70 kg and
is difficult to handle.
CAUTION! Do not lift the antenna by the small metal bar on the back of
the reflector. It is not designed to hold the weight of the antenna.
CAUTION! Make sure that the Azimuth base faces towards the front of the
vehicle as shown in Figure 1 below. Otherwise the wind pressure may cause
damage to the antenna when the vehicle is moving!
Figure 1: Position of the antenna (stowed) on the vehicle
To install the antenna to the transport vehicle do as follows:
1. Safely and securely install the antenna's mounting frame to the roof of the vehicle.
CAUTION! The major part of the weight is on the front end (Azimuth base)
of the structure. Pay special attention to support for this area when you plan
the installation.
98-145510-E Chapter 3: Installation 3-3
You can mount the antenna on a roof-rack (Thule-bars) or mounted on a custom made
structure/enhancement of the vehicle roof or truck bed, see Custom made structure on the
next page. For optimum servo performance, resilience to wind loads and vehicle
movements, the azimuth base should be stiffly supported.
The mounting frame of the antenna has lengthwise adjustable brackets to accommodate
Note
different placements of the supports. If you are not using a roof rack, omit the U-bars.
Roof-rack mount
We recommend a 3-bar solution over a 2-bar solution whenever possible. Adhere to the
load limits of the roof-rack manufacturer and use sturdy, professional grade racks.
Custom made structure
Custom structures should likewise focus on supporting the azimuth base.
Avoid large amounts of magnetizable material close to the antenna - it could adversely
affect the magnetometer. If in doubt, make a test setup prior to final manufacture of the
supporting structure.
For measures for antenna installation, see Measures for antenna installation on page A-14.
See also Weights and measures on page A-3 and Antenna dimensions on page A-12.
3.2.3 Installation of the ACU
To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
To install the ACU, do as follows:
1. If you are going to use WLAN, connect the WLAN antenna to the connector marked
WLAN in the ACU connector panel. The WLAN antenna is part of the accessories
supplied with the EXPLORER 8000 series system.
CAUTION! Turn the WLAN antenna into horizontal position before
sliding the unit into the rack. The WLAN antenna may be damaged if it is
placed in a vertical position.
Figure 2: ACU connector panel with WLAN antenna
2. If you are going to use the LAN connector on the front, connect the enclosed patch
cable (37-206570-025) between LAN1 and LANX (Front) on the rear of the ACU.
3. Slide the ACU into a 1U space in a 19” rack.
We recommend supporting the ACU either with rails on the side of the rack
system or by attaching it with screws on the side using the 2 M4 inserts on
each side of the ACU (see ACU left and right side on page A-20).
4. Mount the screws on each side through the holes in the front and fasten the screws to
the rack. Make sure that the unit is mounted securely according to the requirements for
your 19” rack.
98-145510-E Chapter 3: Installation 3-4
To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
3.2.4 Installation of the VSAT modem
For a list of supported VSAT modems see VSAT modem unit on page 2-9.
1. Mount the VSAT modem close to the ACU, preferably at a distance less than 1 m.
2. Connect all cables. See VSAT modem settings on page C-1 for a description of the
connectors for supported VSAT modems. For cable specifications see VSA T modem
cables on page B-1.
3.2.5 To connect the ACU, VSAT modem and antenna pedestal
The connections to be made depend on the VSAT system (Ku or Ka) and the VSAT modem
used. The drawings on the next pages show an overview of connections in an
EXPLORER 8000 series Ku system and an EXPLORER 8000 series Ka system.
• For details on how to connect the modem, see VSA T modem settings on page C-1.
• For details on the interfaces, see Interfaces on page 4-1.
98-145510-E Chapter 3: Installation 3-5
Ku-band, connections
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Important
Note
Note
To install the EXPLORER 8000 series
Figure 3: Ku-Band: Connection between antenna, ACU and VSAT modem
Connect the cables as described below:
The cables 6, 7, 8 and 14 are delivered as a cable bundle.
1. If you are using LAN to connect the VSAT modem to the system, connect any LAN port
on the VSAT modem to the LAN 5 control port on the ACU.
2. Connect the VSAT modem's Tx Out port to the ACU's Tx In port.
3. Connect the VSAT modem's Rx In port to the ACU's Rx Out port.
4. If applicable, connect the VSAT modem's RS-232 port to the ACU’s RS-232 port.
5. If applicable, connect the VSAT modem's RS-422 port to the ACU's RS-422 port.
6. Connect the LNB Rx port on the antenna pedestal to the ACU’s LNB Rx port. Seal the
connection at the pedestal with splicing tape.
7. Connect the BUC Tx port on the antenna pedestal to the ACU's BUC Tx port. Seal the
connection at the pedestal with splicing tape.
8. Connect the ODU Power & comm. port on the antenna pedestal to the ACU's ODU
Power & comm. port.
9. If applicable, connect the BUC Power & comm. port on the antenna pedestal to the
ACU's BUC Power & comm. port.
If you replace antenna cables you must make a cable calibration. See Ku-Band
version only: Cable calibration on page 6-22.
Remember to set up the system with the correct BUC interface. See
antenna_data buc on page D-4.
10.Connect the ACU to an AC power source (Standard IEC320 on ACU).
11.Connect the VSAT modem to an AC power source.
98-145510-E Chapter 3: Installation 3-6
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