Comtech EF Data PCB-4300 User Manual
PCB-4300
Installation and Operation Manual
1:2 Phase Combiner
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information contained in this document supersedes all previously published
information regarding this product. Product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
Part Number MN/PCB4300.IOM Revision 2
PCB-4300
1:2 Phase Combiner
Installation and Operation Manual
Part Number MN/PCB4300.IOM
Revision 2
April 29, 2010
Copyright © 2010 Comtech EF Data. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Comtech EF Data, 2114 West 7th Street, Tempe, Arizona 85281 USA, 480.333.2200, FAX: 480.333.2161
This page is intentionally blank.
ii
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................. III
TABLES ...................................................................................................................................... VI
FIGURES .................................................................................................................................... VI
PREFACE .................................................................................................................................. VII
About this Manual
Reporting Comments or Suggestions Concerning this Manual .............................................................. vii
Conventions and References ................................................................................................................... viii
Cautions and Warnings .......................................................................................................................... viii
Recommended Standard Designations ................................................................................................... viii
Trademarks ............................................................................................................................................ viii
Metric Conversion ................................................................................................................................. viii
Electrical Safety Notice ............................................................................................................................ viii
Warranty Policy ......................................................................................................................................... ix
Limitations of Warranty ........................................................................................................................... ix
Exclusive Remedies .................................................................................................................................. x
Customer Support ...................................................................................................................................... xi
Online Customer Support ........................................................................................................................ xi
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................. 1–1
1.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 1–1
1.2 Functional Description ............................................................................................................... 1–2
.................................................................................................................................... vii
1.3 Theory of Operation ................................................................................................................... 1–4
1.3.1 Phase and Gain Equalization .................................................................................................... 1–4
1.3.2 System Switching ..................................................................................................................... 1–5
1.3.3 System Gain .............................................................................................................................. 1–6
1.3.4 System Attenuation ................................................................................................................... 1–6
1.4 Dimensional Envelope ................................................................................................................ 1–7
CHAPTER 2. EXTERNAL CONNECTORS ........................................................................... 2–1
2.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 2–1
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2.2 Monitor and Control (M&C) Interface Connectors ................................................................ 2–3
2.2.1 SYSTEM COM J1 Connector .................................................................................................. 2–3
2.2.2 SSPA COM 1 J2, SSPA COM 2 J3, SSPA COM 3 J4 Connectors .......................................... 2–4
2.2.3 SSPA SW OUT J5 Connector .................................................................................................. 2–5
2.2.4 RF INPUT SWITCH J6 Connector .......................................................................................... 2–6
2.3 RF Interface Connectors ............................................................................................................ 2–6
2.3.1 RF IN 1 J7, RF IN 2 J8 Connectors .......................................................................................... 2–6
2.3.2 SSPA OUT 1 J9 Connector ...................................................................................................... 2–6
2.3.3 SSPA OUT 2 J10, SSPA OUT 3 J11 Connectors..................................................................... 2–7
2.4 Power and Ground Interfaces .................................................................................................... 2–7
2.4.1 AC Power ................................................................................................................................. 2–7
2.4.2 Ground Connector .................................................................................................................... 2–7
CHAPTER 3. OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES ....................................... 3–1
3.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 3–1
3.2 System Assembly Example and Cable Connections ................................................................ 3–2
3.2.1 Installation ................................................................................................................................ 3–3
3.2.2 LED Status Operation ............................................................................................................... 3–4
3.3 System Verification ..................................................................................................................... 3–5
3.3.1 System Gain Verification ......................................................................................................... 3–5
3.3.2 System P1dB Verification ........................................................................................................ 3–6
3.4 Single Frequency Alignment (as necessary) ............................................................................. 3–7
3.4.1 Gain Equalization ..................................................................................................................... 3–7
3.4.2 Phase Equalization
.................................................................................................................... 3–8
3.5 Full Bandwidth Alignment (as necessary) .............................................................................. 3–10
3.5.1 Gain Equalization ................................................................................................................... 3–10
3.5.2 Phase Equalization .................................................................................................................. 3–11
CHAPTER 4. FLASH UPGRADING ...................................................................................... 4–1
4.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 4–1
4.2 Flash Updating via Internet ....................................................................................................... 4–1
4.2.1 Firmware File Transfer Procedure ........................................................................................... 4–2
4.3 Flash Upgrade Procedure ........................................................................................................... 4–3
APPENDIX A. ASSEMBLY KITS ......................................................................................... A–1
A.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................... A–1
A.2 Common Assembly Items .......................................................................................................... A–2
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A.2.1 Universal Pole Mounting Kit PL/12319-1 ............................................................................... A–2
A.2.2 Dual-Channel Unistrut Mounting Kit KT-0000017 ................................................................ A–3
A.2.3 HPOD Unistrut Mounting Kit KT/12300-1 ............................................................................. A–4
A.3 PCB-4300 Phase Combiner in Assemblies ............................................................................... A–5
A.4 PCB-4300 Ku-Band Unit (PL/11285-2) Assemblies ................................................................ A–6
A.4.1 Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Assembly – HPOD PL-0000317 ............................... A–6
A.4.1.1 Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System – Waveguides and Components Kit KT-0000026 ....
........................................................................................................................................ A–10
A.4.2 Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 (Legacy Item) ............................... A–14
A.4.2.1 Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 – Assembly Examples ........... A–17
A.5 PCB-4300 C-Band Unit (PL-0000582) Assemblies ................................................................ A–22
A.5.1 C-Band 1:2 Phase Combined Top Assembly Kit – 350W HPOD (CEFD P/N KT-0000109) .......
............................................................................................................................................... A–22
A.5.1.1 C-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Waveguide Kit – HPOD (CEFD P/N KT-0000107) ...
........................................................................................................................................ A–26
APPENDIX B. REMOTE CONTROL .................................................................................... B–1
B.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................... B–1
B.2 EIA-485 ....................................................................................................................................... B–1
B.3 EIA-232 ....................................................................................................................................... B–2
B.4 Basic Protocol ............................................................................................................................. B–2
B.5 Packet Structure ......................................................................................................................... B–3
B.5.1 Start Of Packet ......................................................................................................................... B–3
B.5.2 Target (Base) Address ............................................................................................................. B–3
B.5.2.1 Virtual Address ................................................................................................................ B–4
B.5.3 Address Deli miter
.................................................................................................................... B–4
B.5.4 Instruction Code ...................................................................................................................... B–4
B.5.5 Instruction Code Qualifier ....................................................................................................... B–5
B.5.6 Optional Message Argu ments .................................................................................................. B–6
B.5.7 End Of Packet .......................................................................................................................... B–6
B.6 Remote Commands / Queries .................................................................................................... B–6
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Tables
Table 2-1. PCB-4300 External Connectors ............................................................................................... 2–2
Table 2-2. Connector J1 Pinouts ............................................................................................................... 2–3
Table 2-3. Connector J2, J3, J4 Pinouts .................................................................................................... 2–4
Table 2-4. Connector J5 Pinouts ............................................................................................................... 2–5
Table 2-5. Connector J6 Pinouts ............................................................................................................... 2–6
Table A-1. PL-0000317 Assembly BOM ................................................................................................ A–6
Table A-2. KT-0000026 Kit BOM ........................................................................................................ A–10
Table A-3. Kit KT/11830-1 BOM ......................................................................................................... A–14
Table A-4. Kit KT-0000109 BOM ........................................................................................................ A–22
Table A-5. Kit KT-0000107 BOM ........................................................................................................ A–26
Figures
Figure 1-1. Comtech EF Data PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Control Box (PCCB) ............................. 1–1
Figure 1-2. Comtech EF Data 1:2 Phase Combined System Block Diagrams ......................................... 1–2
Figure 1-3. Combining Loss vs. Phase Imbalance Summary of Specifications ....................................... 1–4
Figure 1-4. PCB-4300 Dimensional Envelope ......................................................................................... 1–7
Figure 2-1. PCB-4300 External Connectors ............................................................................................. 2–1
Figure 3-1. PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combined System Assembly Example ................................................ 3–2
Figure 3-2. PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combined System Cable Connections ................................................. 3–2
Figure 3-3. PCB-4300 LED Status Panel .................................................................................................. 3–4
Figure 3-4. Phase Shifter Adjustment Locations ...................................................................................... 3–8
Figure 4-1. Flash Update via Internet ....................................................................................................... 4–1
Figure A-1. Universal Pole Mounting Kit, PL/12319-1 .......................................................................... A–2
Figure A-2. PCB-4300 Phase Combiner Box and Bracket Kits .............................................................. A–3
Figure A-3. HPOD Mounting Bracket Kit (CEFD P/N KT/12300-1) ..................................................... A–4
Figure A-4. PCB-4300 Phase Combiner Box and Bracket Kits .............................................................. A–5
Figure A-5. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined Assembly – HPOD (CEFD P/N PL-0000317).................... A–7
Figure A-6. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined Assembly – HPOD (CEFD P/N PL-0000317).................... A–8
Figu r e A-7. Ku-Band 1:2 Wave guides an d Compone n ts Kit (CEFD P/N KT-000 0 026) – Front View ...... A–12
Figu r e A-8. Ku-Band 1:2 Wave guides an d Compone n ts Kit (CEFD P/N KT-000 0 026) – Back View ...... A–13
Figure A-9. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 (Legacy Item) ............................ A–16
Figure A-10. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 – PCCB Cabling Connections . A–17
Figure A-11. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 – SSPA Comms and RF Cable
Connection ..................................................................................................................................... A–18
Figure A-12. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 – SSPA1 Æ SSPA2 Waveguide
Assembly........................................................................................................................................ A–19
Figure A-13. Ku-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Kit KT/11830-1 – SSPA2 Æ SSPA3 Waveguide
Assembly........................................................................................................................................ A–20
Figure A-14. Combined 1:2 C-Band Top Assembly Kit – HPOD (CEFD P/N KT-0000109) .............. A–23
Figure A-15. Combined 1:2 C-Band Top Assembly Kit – HPOD (CEFD P/N KT-0000109) .............. A–24
Figure A-16. C-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Waveguide Kit (Exploded) – HPOD (CEFD P/N
KT-0000107) .................................................................................................................................. A–28
Figure A-17. C-Band 1:2 Phase Combined System Waveguide Kit (Assembled) – HPOD (CEFD P/N
KT-0000107) .................................................................................................................................. A–29
vi
About this Manual
This manual provides installation and operation information for the Comtech EF Data PCB-4300
1:2 Phase Combiner. This is a technical document intended for earth station engineers,
technicians, and operators responsible for the operation and maintenance of the PCB-4300.
Comtech EF Data has reviewed this manual thoroughly in order to provide an easy-to-use guide
to your equipment. All statements, technical information, and recommendations in this manual
and in any guides or related documents are believed reliable, but the accuracy and completeness
thereof are not guaranteed or warranted, and they are not intended to be, nor should they be
understood to be, representations or warranties concerning the products described. Further,
Comtech EF Data reserves the right to make changes in the specifications of the products
described in this manual at any time without notice and without obligation to notify any person of
such changes.
Revision 2 of this manual represents a complete rewrite in which all content has been updated in its
entirety and re-ordered to conform to current Comtech EF Data Technical Publication s standards
and practices.
PREFACE
If you have any questions regarding your equipment or the information in this manual, please
contact the Comtech EF Data Customer Support Department.
Reporting Comments or Suggestions Concerning this Manual
Comments and suggestions regarding the content and design of this manual are appreciated. To
submit comments, please contact the Comtech EF Data Technical Publications Department:
TechnicalPublications@comtechefdata.com
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Preface MN/PCB4300.IOM
Conventions and References
Cautions and Warnings
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury. CAUTION may also be used to indicate other unsafe
practices or risks of property damage.
IMPORTANT
or a statement that is associated with the task being performed.
or
NOTE
indicates information critical for proper equipment function,
Recommended Standard Designations
Recommended Standard (RS) Designations have been superseded by the new designation of the
Electronic Industries Association (EIA). References to the old designations are shown only when
depicting actual text displayed on the screen of the unit (RS-232, RS-485, etc.). All other references
in the manual will be shown with the EIA designations.
Trademarks
Other product names mentioned in this manual may be trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective companies and are hereby acknowledged.
Metric Conversion
Metric conversion information is located on the inside back cover of this manual. This information
is provided to assist the operator in cross-referencing non-metric to metric conversions.
Electrical Safety Notice
This equipment has been designed to minimize exposure of personnel to hazards. For further
information, contact the Comtech EF Data Customer Support Department.
The operators and technicians must:
• Know how to work around, with, and on high voltage equipment.
• Exercise every precaution to ensure personnel safety.
• Exercise extreme care when working near high voltages.
• Be familiar with the warnings presented in this manual.
Double pole / neutral fusing is used on the prime power supply input.
CAUTION
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Preface MN/PCB4300.IOM
Warrant y Policy
Comtech EF Data products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for
a specific period from the date of shipment, and this period varies by product. In most
cases, the warranty period is two years. During the warranty period, Comtech EF Data will,
at its option, repair or replace products that prove to be defective. Repairs are warranted for
the remainder of the original warranty or a 90 day extended warranty, whichever is longer.
Contact Comtech EF Data for the warranty period specific to the product purchased.
For equipment under warranty, the owner is responsible for freight to Comtech EF Data
and all related customs, taxes, tariffs, insurance, etc. Comtech EF Data is responsible for
the freight charges only for return of the equipment from the factory to the owner. Comtech
EF Data will return the equipment by the same method (i.e., Air, Express, Surface) as the
equipment was sent to Comtech EF Data.
All equipment returned for warranty repair must have a valid RMA number issued prior
to return and be marked clearly on the return packaging. Comtech EF Data strongly
recommends all equipment be returned in its original packaging.
Comtech EF Data Corporation’s obligations under this warranty are limited to repair or
replacement of failed parts, and the return shipment to the buyer of the repaired or
replaced parts.
Limitations of Warranty
The warranty does not apply to any part of a product that has been installed, altered,
repaired, or misused in any way that, in the opinion of Comtech EF Data Corporation,
would affect the reliability or detracts from the performance of any part of the product, or
is damaged as the result of use in a way or with equipment that had not been previously
approved by Comtech EF Data Corporation.
The warranty does not apply to any product or parts thereof where the serial number or the
serial number of any of its parts has been altered, defaced, or removed.
The warranty does not cover damage or loss incurred in transportation of the product.
The warranty does not cover replacement or repair necessitated by loss or damage from
any cause beyond the control of Comtech EF Data Corporation, such as lightning or other
natural and weather related events or wartime environments.
The warranty does not cover any labor involved in the removal and or reinstallation of
warranted equipment or parts on site, or any labor required to diagnose the necessity for
repair or replacement.
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The warranty excludes any responsibility by Comtech EF Data Corporation for incidental or
consequential damages arising from the use of the equipment or products, or for any inability
to use them either separate from or in combination with any other equipment or products.
A fixed charge established for each product will be imposed for all equipment returned
for warranty repair where Comtech EF Data Corporation cannot identify the cause of the
reported failure.
Exclusive Remedies
Comtech EF Data Corporation’s warranty, as stated is in lieu of all other warranties,
expressed, implied, or statutory, including those of me rchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose. The buyer shall pass on to any purchaser, lessee, or other user of Comtech EF Data
Corporation’s products, the aforementioned warranty, and shall indemnify and hold harmless
Comtech EF Data Corporation from any claims or liability of such purchaser, lessee, or user
based upon allegations that the buyer, its agents, or employees have made additional
warranties or representations as to product preference or use.
The remedies provided herein are the buyer’s sole and exclusive remedies. Comtech EF
Data shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential
damages, whether based on contract, tort, or any other legal theory.
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Preface MN/PCB4300.IOM
Customer Support
Refer to p.ix in this Preface for information regarding this product’s Warranty
Policy.
Contact the Comtech EF Data Customer Support Department for:
• Product support or training
• Reporting comments or suggestions concerning manuals
• Information on upgrading or returning a product
A Customer Support representative may be reached at:
Comtech EF Data
Attention: Customer Support Department
2114 West 7th Street
Tempe, Arizona 85281 USA
480.333.2200 (Main Comtech EF Data number)
480.333.4357 (Customer Support Desk)
480.333.2161 FAX
To return a Comtech EF Data product (in-warranty and out-of-warranty) for repair or
replacement:
• Contact the Comtech EF Data Customer Support Department. Be prepared to supply the
Customer Support representative with the model number, serial number, and a description
of the problem.
• Request a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number from the Comtech EF Data
Customer Support representative.
• Pack the product in its original shipping carton/packaging to ensure th at the product is not
damaged during shipping.
• Ship the product back to Comtech EF Data. (Shipping charges should be prepaid.)
Online Customer Support
An RMA number request can be requested electronically by contacting the Customer Support
Department through the online support page at
• Click on the “Service” hyperlink, then read the “Return Material Authorization” section
for detailed instructions on our return procedures.
• Click on the “RMA Request Form” hyperlink, then fill out the form completely before
sending.
• Send e-mail to the Customer Support Department at service@comtechefdata.com.
www.comtechefdata.com/support.asp:
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Notes:
xii
1.1 Overview
Phase combining is a traditional techniqu e that co st eff ectiv ely incr eases th e avail able output p owe r
of an amplifier system. The PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner (Figure 1-1), tog
State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs) and associa ted wav eguide and cabling, form a complete 1:2 phase
combined system.
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION
ether with three Solid
Figure 1-1. Comtech EF Data PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Control Box (PCCB)
In a 1:2 phase combined system, two of the three SSPAs are normally online and their outputs are
summed in the waveguide combiner, effectively doubling the system output power. The third SSPA
remains offline and, in the event of a failure of either o f the two online units, its “standby ” output is
automatically switched in place of the failed unit – thereby maintaining full system output power.
1–1
PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
1.2 Functional Description
The PCB-4300 is available in either a Ku-Band version (CEFD P/N PL/11285-2) or C-Band version
(CEFD P/N PL-0000582). For application examples, see Appendix A. ASSEMBLY KITS.
Monitor & Control (M&C) System Interconnect
RF System Interconnect
Figure 1-2. Comtech EF Data 1:2 Phase Combined System Block Diagrams
1–2
PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
Figure 1-2 provides block diagrams depicting the major components of the 1:2 phase combined
system. (These diagrams employ Comtech EF Data HPODs – High Powered Outdoor Amplifiers –
as the designated SSPAs.)
The PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Control Box (PCCB) contains a microprocessor-b ased M&C
circuit board to control the system. Interconnection is as follows:
• The PCCB communicates with each SSPA via control cables that are attached from the
PCCB J2, J3, and J4 connectors to each SSPA.
• It is also through this connection that the PCCB receives it prime power to operate. A +24V
signal from each SSPA is diode OR’ed to provide redundant operating power for the
PCCB.
• Control of the waveguide switches is accomplished via a “Y” cable at the J5 connec tor. The
user communicates with the control box via the J1 System Comm connector.
Note: In ord er to avoid ambiguities, all communication to each SSPA is also accomplished via the
control box M&C.
The PCCB provides a weatherized housing for the necessary input RF components. System
interconnection is as follows:
• An input RF redundancy switch, controlled via the RF INPUT SWITCH J6 connector,
selects which RF path is directed to the output.
• The output RF signal is fed into an in-phase divider, which equally splits the signal in phase
and amplitude to the SSPA OUT 1 J9, SSPA OUT 2 J10, and SSPA OUT 3 J11 output
connectors.
o The RF paths to the SSPA OUT 1 J91 and SSPA OUT 3 J11 output connectors each
contain a manually adjustable phase shifter; these phase shifters are used to equalize the
phase difference of each SSPA signal path to achieve maximum system output p ower.
They are accessible via a small cover panel. These critical components are factory se t
and should only be adjusted, if needs arise, by carefully following an appropriate
alignment procedure – refer to Chapter 3. OPERATION
AND ADJUSTMENT
PROCEDURES for further information.
It is also important for the user to in stall the individual SSPAs in the correct position
(as aligned at the factory). For installation examples, see Appendix A. ASSEMBLY
KITS.
o The path to SSPA OUT 2 J10 output connector contains a length of coaxial cable that
is factory manufactured to provide equal phase length paths from the RF input to each
PCCB output when the adjustable phase shifter is set to its midpoint. This provides a
maximum adjustable phase range.
There are also several isolators inside the PCCB that maintain good system Voltage
Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR). The user should not alter any RF cable inside (or outside)
this box that is part of the RF signal path.
• The RF signals from the PCCB are fed to the RF inpu t of the respective SSPA via a set of
phase matched cables. Again, the phase length (and matching) of these cables is essential to
system operation and no substitutes should be used. The routing should not be such to
cause extreme bends.
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Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
• The output waveguide combining system consists of balanced waveguide lengths, two
waveguide transfer switches, a “Magic-Tee” combiner with termi nation, and couplers for
test and alignment.
1.3 Theory of Operation
As mentioned previously, phase combini ng is a common technique to increase the av ailable output
power of an amplifier system. Referring back to the Figure 1-2 system block diagrams, when two
signals of equal phase and amplitude are fed into the “Magic-Tee” combin er, the individual power
of each SSPA is summed at the output port and cancelled in the termination port.
In real systems, the phase and amplitude of the two signals are never exactly equal, so there is a
small amount of power that is absorbed by the load termination. This terminated port is
sometimes referred to as the “wasted” power port. In practice, however, it is possible to keep
phase and amplitude imbalances at low enough levels such that overall combining losses are only
in the 0.2 to 0.5 dB range.
Figure 1-3 shows the effec
ts of phase imbalance on the power combining efficiency.
Figure 1-3. Combining Loss vs. Phase Imbalance Summary of Specifications
1.3.1 Phase and Gain Equalization
Note: Phase and gain equalization are performed at the factory, and no user intervention is
required unless an amplifier or other critical system component, such as the phase combiner box,
needs replaced. The following paragraphs are provided for informational purposes; for
operational and alignment information, refer to Chapter 3. OPERATION
PROCEDURES.
AND ADJUSTMENT
Naturally, three separate amplifiers are likely to have different phase and gain characteristics. The
PCB-4300 1:2 system is designed such that the phase difference between the three amplifier paths
is compensated by adjusting the phase shifter in the Phase Combiner Control Box. This is done at
the factory for the full amplifier bandwidth and should not normally require further adjustment in
the field unless an amplifier has been replaced.
1–4
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Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
The gains of the three amplifiers are also equalized at the factory to provide optimum system
performance. The PCB-4300 software has a command that reads the stored factory gain of each
SSPA and adjusts “offsets” to equalize the gains between the three SSPAs. These Amplitude
Offsets – AOF1, AOF2, and AOF3 – are often further fine-tuned at the factory to provide
optimum system performance (see test datasheet for specific system offsets).
It is important to reiterate that these offsets, adjusted at the factory and stored in non-volatile
memory, are transparent to the user; they should not need further adjustment in end user
applications unless an amplifier has been replaced.
1.3.2 System Switching
The possible combinations of which two SSPAs are “online” and directed to the system waveguide
combiner output, versus which SSPA is offline, are as follows:
• 1+2 online (SSPA #3 offline);
• 1+3 online (SSPA#2 offline);
• 2+3 online (SSPA #1 offline).
There are two software modes that control which two SSPAs are online versus which SSPA is
offline: “automatic” and “manual”. Either mode is invoked by the state of the FoRCe (FRC=)
command (see Appendix B. REMOTE CONTROL). Note the following:
• FRC=00 – This command is the factory default and executes “ automatic” mode, whereby
the two SSPAs that are online and combined will generally be the first two that “clear” their
faults; i.e., the first two SSPAs that are powered on. (Refer also to the PRF setting
description below.) Should a fault occur in an online unit while FRC=00, th e offline unit
will automatically switch in place of the faulted unit, maintaining full system output power.
• FRC=XX – Where FRC=00 is the automatic mode, when it is desired to force two specific
SSPAs online, executing this command puts the system in “manual” mode and combines
the output of the two selected SSPAs. This is accomplished by sending this command,
where XX = 12 (1+2), 13 (1+3), or 23 (2+3).
Manual mode also implies that, if one o f the online units fail, a switchover to replace the
faulted unit with the offline unit will NOT occur automatically.
(Note that the FRC command is also useful, should sy stem re-alignment be needed – i.e.
the command indirectly directs one SSPA to the o ffline port for easy characterization and
measurement.)
The recommended and default setting is FRC=00.
PRF=XX – The PReFerred command, where XX = 00, 12, 13, or 23, affects the possible
online/offline states. Note the following:
• If the setting is PRF=00, there is no “preferred” condition, and th e first two SSPAs without
faults detected by the PCB-4300 will be directed online.
• If PRF is something other than 00 – e.g., PRF=13 – then, if at any time both units 1 and 3
have no faults, they will be switched online.
The recommended and default setting is PRF=00.
1–5
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Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
1.3.3 System Gain
Note that, due to the power divider and cable losses, the overall gain of the system will be
approximately 5-10 dB less than the individual gain of each amplifier. Refer to the system test
data sheet for actual system gain.
1.3.4 System Attenuation
The PCB-4300 makes it easy to adjust the overall system gain. In a standard 1:2 phase combined
system, there is no common attenuator to adjust the overall system gain; the gains of each of the
individual SSPAs must be changed appropriately. The PCB-4300 eases this process: The user
need only input a single desired attenuation value via the ATT attenuation command (see
Appendix B. REMOTE CONTROL), and the PCB-4300 automatically communicates with
each SSPA and adjusts the individual gains accordingly, resulting in the desired attenuation value
while maintaining optimum power combining conditions.
The SSPAs included in the system are calibrated over a range 10 dB beyond specification (30 dB
vs. 20 dB). As explained above, a portion of the 30 dB range is required for gain equalization;
therefore, while the maximum allowable attenuation in a 1:2 system is software-limited to 24 dB,
it still exceeds system specifications.
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PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
1.4 Dimensional Envelope
Note: All dimensions are in English units; metric units are shown in parentheses. This figure is
typical for the PL/11285-2 Ku-Band and PL-0000582 C-Band versions of the PCB-4300.
Figure 1-4. PCB-4300 Dimensional Envelope
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PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
Introduction MN/PCB4300.IOM
Notes:
1–8
2.1 Overview
This chapter summarizes the connectors provided for all necessary external connections between
the PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner and other equipment. Table 2-1 on
the connectors provided on the PCB-4300, grouped according to service fun ction.
SSPA
OUT 1
J9
PCCB Left Side View PCCB Right Side View
Chapter 2. EXTERNAL
CONNECTORS
the next page summarizes
(near)
SSPA
OUT 2
J10
PCCB Front View
(far)
SSPA
OUT 3
J11
Figure 2-1. PCB-4300 External Connectors
Basic installation and operational information is provided in Chapter 3. OPERATION
ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES and Appendix A. ASSEMBLY KITS. For a detailed
overview on the PCB-4300’s operability (via remote M&C commands and queries), refer to
Appendix B. REMOTE CONTROL.
2–1
AND
PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
External Connectors MN/PCB4300.IOMMN/PCB4300.IOM
Table 2-1. PCB-4300 External Connectors
Connector Group
(Chapter Sect.)
M&C (Sect. 2.2)
Name / Ref Des Connector Type Function
SYSTEM COM J1 19-pin Circular Connector
SSPA COM 1 J2
SSPA COM 2 J3
SSPA COM 3 J4
SSPA SW OUT J5 19-pin Circular Connector
RF INPUT SWITCH J6 6-pin Circular Connector
RF (Sect. 2.3) RF IN 1 J7
RF IN 2 J8
SSPA OUT 1 J9
SSPA OUT 2 J10
SSPA OUT 3 J11
Power/Ground
(Sect 2.4)
AC
Ground #10-32 stud Common Chassis Ground
Customer EIA-232/485 and discrete
interface
19-pin Circular Connector Connects to SSPAs
Connects to both waveguide
switches
Drive input, selects either RF IN 1 or
RF IN 2
Type ’N’ RF Inputs to PCCB
Type ’N’ RF Outputs to SSPAs
Pin ‘R’ on SSPA COM 1 J1,
SSPA COM 2 J3, SSPA COM
3 J4
See Sect. 2.4.1 for AC power
provision note
IMPORTANT
To maintain compliance with the European EMC Directive (EN55022, EN50082-1)
properly shielded cables are required for data I/O.
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PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
External Connectors MN/PCB4300.IOMMN/PCB4300.IOM
2.2 Monitor and Control (M&C) Interface Connectors
Note: All M&C connectors are found on the front panel of the PCCB box.
2.2.1 SYSTEM COM J1 Connector
The SYSTEM COM J1 connector is a 19-pin circular connector, type
MS3112E14-19S. It serves as the primary input between the user and the PCCB
for controlling and monitoring both SSPAs. Its pinout specification is provided in
Table 2-2.
ating connector: ITT Cannon MS3116J14-19P
M
(CEFD P/N CN/MS3116J14-19P).
Table 2-2. Connector J1 Pinouts
Pin # Signal Function Signal Name / Description
A RS485_+RX Customer communications interface
B RS485_-RX Customer communications interface
C RS485_+TX Customer communications interface
D RS485_-TX Customer communications interface
E RS232_RD Customer communications interface
F Spare Reserved for future use
G RS232_TD Customer communications interface
H System Fault NO
J System Fault NC
K Fault Common
L SSPA 1 Fault NO Wh e n t h e r e i s a fault w i t h S SPA 1, thi s pin (NO) will be tied to the Fault Common pin.
M SSPA 1 Fault NC When th e r e is not a fa u l t with SSP A 1, this p i n (NC) will b e t ied to the F a u l t C o m m on pin.
N Ground
P SSPA 2 Fault NO When there is a fault wit h S S P A 2 , this pin ( NO) will be tied to the Fault Common pin.
R SSPA 2 Fault NC When t h e r e i s n o t a f a u l t with SSP A 2 , this pin (NC) will b e t ied to the F au lt Common p in.
S System Mute SSPA will be muted if this pin is grounded
T SSPA 3 Fault NO ( NOTE: This pin is reserved for use with 1:2 systems only.)
U SSPA 3 Fault NC ( NOTE: This pin is reserved for use with 1:2 systems only.)
V Ground GND
When there is a summary fault in the PCB-4300, this pin (NO) will be tied to the Fault
Common pin.
When there is not a summary fault in the PCB-4300, this pin (NC) will be tied to the Fault
Common pin.
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PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
External Connectors MN/PCB4300.IOMMN/PCB4300.IOM
2.2.2 SSPA COM 1 J2, SSPA COM 2 J3, SSPA COM 3 J4 Connectors
The SSPA COM 1 J2, SSPA COM 2 J3, and SSPA COM 3 J4 connectors are 19pin circular connectors, type MS3112E14-19S. Each serves as the primary
input/output interface between the PCCB and its specified SSPA. The typical pinout
specification is provided in Table 2-3.
Typical mating connector: ITT Cannon
(CEFD P/N CN/MS3116J14-19P).
MS3116J14-19P
Table 2-3. Connector J2, J3, J4 Pinouts
Pin # Signal Function Signal Name / Description Direction
A
NC
B
NC
C
NC
D
NC
E
RS232_RD Provides for Comm between PCB and SSPA Input
F
NC
G
RS232_TD Provides for Comm between PCB and SSPA Output
H
Switch Inhibit Output Provides a hardware mute input to SSPA with switch fault Output
J
NC
K
Ground GND
L
SUMFLT_NO Monitors SSPA summary fault relay Input
M
NC
N
Ground GND
P
ONLINE_STATUS Used by PCB for online status indication Input
R
+24V Bias voltage from SSPA Input
S
Mute Control
T
NC
U
NC
V
NC
Allow for customer inhibit. Tied to Pin S of System Comm (J1)
connector
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PCB-4300 1:2 Phase Combiner Revision 2
External Connectors MN/PCB4300.IOMMN/PCB4300.IOM
2.2.3 SSPA SW OUT J5 Connector
The SSPA SW OUT J5 connector is a 19-pin circular connector, type
MS3112E14-19S. It connects, via a “Y” cable, to the SSPA #1 and SSPA #2
waveguide switches. Its pinout specification is provided in Mating
connector:
(CEFD P/N CN/MS3116J14-19P).
Table 2-4.
Mating connector: ITT Cannon MS3116J14-19P
(CEFD P/N CN/MS3116J14-19P).
Pin # Signal Function Signal Name / Description Direction
A
Pos1, SW1 Drive Output
B
Ground GND
C
POS2, SW1, Drive Output
D
POS1, SW1, Indicator Input
E
Ground GND
F
POS2, SW1, Indicator Input
G
NC
H
POS1, SW2, Drive Output
J
Ground GND
K
POS2, SW2, Drive Output
L
POS1, SW2, Indicator Input
M
Ground GND
N
POS2, SW2, Indicator Input
P
NC
R
NC
S
NC
T
NC
U
NC
V
NC
ITT Cannon MS3116J14-19P
Table 2-4. Connector J5 Pinouts
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External Connectors MN/PCB4300.IOMMN/PCB4300.IOM
2.2.4 RF INPUT SWITCH J6 Connector
The PCCB contains a built-in selector switch, a latching 28 VDC coaxial
unit. The position of this switch is selected by the RF INPUT SWITCH J6
– a 6-pin circular connector (CEFD P/N CN/MS-PT07M6PC). Its pinout
specification is provided in Table 2-5.
Mating connector: ITT Cannon MS
(CEFD P/N CN/MS3116J10-6S).
Table 2-5. Connector J6 Pinouts
Pin # Signal Function Signal Name / Description Direction
A
POS1, Drive Input
B
Ground GND
C
POS2, Drive Input
D
POS1, Indicator Output
E
Ground GND
F
POS2, Indicator Output
2.3 RF Interface Connectors
2.3.1 RF IN 1 J7, RF IN 2 J8 Connectors
The RF IN 1 J7 and RF IN 2 J8 connectors are Type ‘N’ female connectors,
each serving as an RF signal input interface to the PCCB. Note the following:
• The RF IN 1 J7 input is selected when the RF INPUT SWITCH J6’s
“POS1” Signal Function is activated.
3116J10-6S
• The RF IN 2 J8 input is selected when the RF INPUT SWITCH J6’s
“POS2” Signal Function is activated.
2.3.2 SSPA OUT 1 J9 Connector
The SSPA OUT J10 connector, located on the left side panel of the PCCB, is
a Type ‘N’ female connector. It provides the RF signal output from the PCCB
to SSPA #1.
2–6
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