Freedom R8100 SERIES Operator's Manual

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R8100 SERIES COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM ANALYZER OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Documentation for firmware version 2.0.0.0

FCT-1365 Printed in U.S.A

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Table of Contents

Topic Page

LIMITED WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................................. 11

SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT ................................................................................................................. 12

1 PRE-OPERATION OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................... 13

1.1 SCOPE OF MANUAL ..................................................................................................................... 13

1.2 SAFETY SUMMARY ....................................................................................................................... 13

1.2.1 Analyzer Grounding ...................................................................................... 13

1.2.2 Unit is Live When Plugged In ....................................................................... 13

1.2.3 Keep Away From Live Circuits ..................................................................... 13

1.2.4 Explosive Atmosphere .................................................................................. 13

1.3 WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS ................................................................................................... 14

1.3.1 Analyzer Operating Voltage .......................................................................... 14

1.3.2 DC Power Source ......................................................................................... 14

1.3.3 Maximum Meter In Voltages ......................................................................... 14

1.3.4 Replacement Fuses ........................................................................................ 15

1.3.5 Other Cautions ............................................................................................. 15

1.3.6 User Maintenance of exterior surfaces ........................................................... 15

1.4 SERVICE ............................................................................................................................................ 16

1.5 REPLACEMENT PARTS ORDERS ............................................................................................ 16

1.6 INSTALLATION .............................................................................................................................. 16

1.6.1 Packing ......................................................................................................... 16

1.6.2 Initial Set-up.................................................................................................. 16

1.6.3 Warm-up ....................................................................................................... 16

1.7 Description .......................................................................................................................................... 16

1.8 Technical Specifications .................................................................................................................... 20

1.9 Operator Interface and Controls...................................................................................................... 21

1.9.1 Front Panel Control Keys ............................................................................. 22

1.9.2 Front Panel Control Knobs ........................................................................... 25

1.9.3 Front Panel Display and Indicators ............................................................... 26

2 OPERATION .................................................................................................................................................. 30

2.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................................. 30

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2.1.1 Basic navigation and operator control ........................................................... 30

2.1.2 Hot keys for fast navigation in Monitor, Audio, Display and Meter zones ..... 33

2.2 Operating Instructions ....................................................................................................................... 34

2.2.1 RF Zone / Monitor Mode ............................................................................ 34

2.2.2 RF Zone / Generate Mode ........................................................................... 39

2.2.3 RF Zone / Duplex Mode .............................................................................. 41

2.2.4 Display Zone ................................................................................................ 60

2.2.5 Meter Zone ................................................................................................... 73

2.2.6 Instrument Menu .......................................................................................... 81

2.2.7 Test Menu ..................................................................................................... 92

2.2.8 Settings Menu ............................................................................................. 211

2.2.9 Screen Capture ............................................................................................ 225

3 REMOTE OPERATION ........................................................................................................................... 226

3.1 BIOS Power-loss Setup .................................................................................................................. 226

3.2 DHCP Server Setup ........................................................................................................................ 227

3.3 Network Port Setup ........................................................................................................................ 228

3.4 Computer Setup ............................................................................................................................... 229

3.4.1 Setup ........................................................................................................... 229

3.4.2 Control ....................................................................................................... 230

3.5 Disable Remote Access .................................................................................................................. 230

3.6 Verification / Troubleshooting Information .............................................................................. 230

4 TEST APPLICATIONS.............................................................................................................................. 232

4.1 FM Transmitter Testing ................................................................................................................. 232

4.1.1 Basic FM Transmitter Testing – initial setup ............................................... 232

4.1.2 Transmit Power, Frequency, and Frequency Deviation Measurements ........ 233

4.1.3 Modulation Measurements .......................................................................... 233

4.1.4 Off-The-Air Measurements ......................................................................... 234

4.2 FM Receiver Testing ....................................................................................................................... 234

4.2.1 Basic FM Receiver Testing – initial setup .................................................... 234

4.2.2 Receiver Distortion Measurement ............................................................... 235

4.2.3 SINAD Measurement ................................................................................. 236

4.2.4 Modulation Acceptance Bandwidth ............................................................. 236

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4.2.5 Receiver Sensitivity Testing (20 dB Quieting) .............................................. 236

4.2.6 Squelch Sensitivity Test ............................................................................... 236

4.3 Cable Fault Testing ......................................................................................................................... 237

4.3.1 Cable Fault Locator Setup and Operation ................................................... 237

Appendix A – Glossary (List of Abbreviations and Acronyms) ......................................................................... 246

Appendix B – Tone and Code Specifications ........................................................................................................ 249

Appendix C – R8100 Field Calibration Procedure ................................................................................................ 254

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List of Figures

Page

Figure 2.1-1 Front Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connectors ..................................................... 18

Figure 2.1-2 Left and Right Sides of the R8100 Needs new photo ................................................. 19

Figure 3.1.1-1 Main screen in Monitor mode showing related information in grouped display zones .. 31

Figure 3.1.1-2 Main display area after Audio Zone soft key press .................................................. 32

Figure 3.1.1-4 Audio Zone data entry for Fixed 1 kHz Level ........................................................ 33

Figure 3.1.2-1 Outline around Numeric Keypad Hot Keys ........................................................... 34

Figure 3.2.1-1 RF Zone display area showing Monitor Mode data ................................................. 35

Figure 3.2.1-2 Monitor Mode submenu after RF Zone soft key press ............................................ 36

Figure 3.2.1-3 Data entry window before and after Monitor frequency change ................................ 38

Figure 3.2.1-4 RF Zone display area after Monitor frequency change ............................................. 38

Figure 3.2.2-1 RF Zone display area showing Generator Mode data .............................................. 39

Figure 3.2.2-2 Generator Mode submenu after RF Zone soft key press .......................................... 40

Figure 3.2.3-1 RF Zone display after Duplex key press ................................................................ 42

Figure 3.2.4-1 Audio Zone display with the R8100 in Generate mode ............................................ 44

Figure 3.2.4-2 Audio Zone display with the R8100 in Monitor mode ............................................. 44

Figure 3.2.4.1-1 Audio Zone submenu in Monitor mode ............................................................. 45

Figure 3.2.4.2-1 Format submenu in Audio Zone ....................................................................... 46

Figure 3.2.4.2-2 DTMF Table providing additional code sequence control. .................................... 48

Figure 3.2.4.3-1 PL Table showing highlighted entry code. .......................................................... 50

Figure 3.2.4.3-2 A/B Sequence table showing highlighted sequence. ............................................. 51

Figure 3.2.4.3-3 A/B Sequence table submenu for user programmable entries ................................ 52

Figure 3.2.4.3-4 5/6 Tone entry submenu ................................................................................. 53

Figure 3.2.4.3-5 POCSAG Table submenu ................................................................................ 54

Figure 3.2.4.3-6 General Sequence Table submenu ..................................................................... 56

Figure 3.2.4.4-1 Audio Zone submenu in Generator mode .......................................................... 59

Figure 3.2.5-1 Display Zone submenu after Select Display soft key press ....................................... 61

Figure 3.2.5.1-1 Trace Math Display ......................................................................................... 63

Figure 3.2.5.1-2 Demod At Marker submenu ............................................................................. 65

Figure 3.2.5.2-1 Display Zone submenu for the Mod Scope ......................................................... 66

Figure 3.2.5.3-1 Display Zone submenu for the Oscilloscope ....................................................... 68

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Figure 3.2.5.4-1 Bar Graphs screen in Display Zone ................................................................... 71

Figure 3.2.5.5-1 General Seq screen in Display Zone .................................................................. 73

Figure 3.2.6-1 Meter Zone submenu showing RF Scan meter ....................................................... 74

Figure 3.2.6-2 Meter Zone submenu after Select Meter soft key press ............................................ 74

Figure 3.2.6.1-1 RF Power Meter screen ................................................................................... 75

Figure 3.2.6.2-1 AC Volts display ............................................................................................. 75

Figure 3.2.6.2-2 DC Volts display ............................................................................................ 75

Figure 3.2.6.3-1 SINAD display ............................................................................................... 76

Figure 3.2.6.3-2 Internal Distortion display ............................................................................... 76

Figure 3.2.6.4-1 PL/Period Counter screen ............................................................................... 77

Figure 3.2.6.4-2 DPL Decode screen ........................................................................................ 77

Figure 3.2.6.4-3 DTMF Decode screen ..................................................................................... 77

Figure 3.2.6.4-4 2-Tone Decode screen .................................................................................... 78

Figure 3.2.6.4-5 5/6-Tone Decode screen ................................................................................. 78

Figure 3.2.6.4-6 General Sequence decode screen ....................................................................... 79

Figure 3.2.6.5-1 Frequency Counter screen ................................................................................ 80

Figure 3.2.6.6-1 RF Scan display .............................................................................................. 81

Figure 3.2.7-1 Submenu after pressing Instrument navigation key ................................................. 82

Figure 3.2.7.1-1 Submenu in Spectrum Analyzer Instrument mode ............................................... 83

Figure 3.2.7.2-1 Dual Display mode ......................................................................................... 84

Figure 3.2.7.3-1 Tracking Generator mode ................................................................................ 85

Figure 3.2.7.3-2 Normalized Spectrum Analyzer trace ................................................................. 88

Figure 3.2.7.4-1 Cable Fault Locator mode ................................................................................ 89

Figure 3.2.7.4-2 Frequency and Attenuation entries in the Add Cable Type submenu ...................... 92

Figure 3.2.8-1 Submenu after pressing Test navigation key ........................................................... 93

Figure 3.2.8.1-1 Submenu after pressing Presets soft key ............................................................. 94

Figure 3.2.8.1-2 Data entry mode after pressing Save Configuration soft key .................................. 95

Figure 3.2.8.2-1 Test Mode submenu ....................................................................................... 96

Following Sections to be Completed. Method TBD....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

DMR Test Mode with MOTOTRBO™ ......................................................................................... 96

Figure 3.2.8.3-1 ........................................................................................................................... 97

DMR transmitter tests ................................................................................................................. 97

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Figure 3.2.8.3.1-1 Submenu after pressing DMR soft key in Generator mode................................ 98

Figure 3.2.8.3.1.2-1 Voice Loopback Recording ...................................................................... 100

Figure 3.2.8.3.1.3-1 Power Profile Slot ................................................................................... 102

Figure 3.2.8.3.1.3-2 Power Profile Frame with Markers ............................................................ 104

Figure 3.2.8.3.1.4-1 Submenu after pressing DMR soft key in Monitor mode .............................. 105

Figure 3.2.8.3.2-1 Submenu after pressing DMR soft key in Generate mode ............................... 106

Figure 3.2.8.3.2-2 Voice Loopback Playing ............................................................................. 107

Figure 3.2.8.4.1-1 Main screen in Monitor mode Voice Frame Decode ....................................... 110

Figure 3.2.8.4.1-2 Main screen in Monitor mode after pressing the PROJECT 25 soft key ............ 111

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.2-1 Test Pattern submenu in P25 Monitor mode............................................... 112

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.2-2 P25 Voice Recording ............................................................................... 114

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.2-3 P25 Voice Loopback ............................................................................... 115

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-1 P25 Eye Diagram selection in Display Zone ............................................... 116

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-2 Eye Diagram with Mon Mod Type WCQPSK and Display Mode Fade Away .. 117

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-3 P25 Voice Frame Decode ........................................................................ 118

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-4 P25 Voice Frame Decode Unit to Unit ...................................................... 120

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-5 Constellation Plot (Symbols) .................................................................... 121

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-6 Ideal Constellation .................................................................................. 122

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-7 Constellation Plot (Samples / Trajectories) ................................................. 123

Figure 3.2.8.4.1.3-8 Distribution Plot of 1011 Hz Tone ............................................................ 124

Figure 3.2.8.4.2-1 Main screen in Generate mode after pressing the PROJECT 25 soft key ........... 125

Figure 3.2.8.4.2-2 P25 Generate mode test patterns ................................................................. 125

Figure 3.2.8.4.2-3 P25 Voice Frame Encoder submenu ............................................................ 127

Figure 3.2.8.5-1 Main screen after selecting P25 Trunk Test Mode ............................................. 134

Figure 3.2.8.5-2 Main screen after pressing P25 Trunk soft key ................................................. 135

Figure 3.2.8.5-4 P25 Trunk Band Plan submenu ..................................................................... 137

Figure 3.2.8.5-3 P25 Trunk submenu after starting BER test after registration ............................. 140

Figure 3.2.8.6-1 Main screen in Monitor mode after selecting NXDN™ Test Mode ..................... 142

Figure 3.2.8.6.1-1 NXDN™ Monitor mode ........................................................................... 145

Figure 3.2.8.6.1-2 NXDN™ Voice Recording ........................................................................ 146

Figure 3.2.8.6.1-3 NXDN™ Eye Diagram in Display Zone ..................................................... 147

Figure 3.2.8.6.1-4 NXDN™ Eye Diagram with display in Fade Away mode ............................... 148

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Figure 3.2.8.6.2-1 NXDN™ Generate mode ......................................................................... 149

Figure 3.2.8.6.3-1 Main screen after selecting NXDN Trunk Test Mode .................................... 152

Figure 3.2.8.6.3-2 Main screen after pressing NXDN™ Trunk soft key ..................................... 153

Figure 3.2.8.6.3-3 NXDN™ Trunk submenu after starting BER test ......................................... 154

Figure 3.2.8.6.1.4-1 NXDN Eye Diagram in Display Zone ....................................................... 157

Figure 3.2.8.8-1. Main screen in Monitor mode after selecting TETRA Test Mode .............................. 158

Figure 3.2.8.8-2. Submenu after pressing TETRA soft key in Monitor mode ...................................... 159

Figure 3.2.8.8-3. Error Vector Diagram ........................................................................................ 161

Figure 3.2.8.8-4. Power Profile Slot .............................................................................................. 162

Figure 3.2.8.8-5. Power Profile Frame with Markers ....................................................................... 164

Figure 3.2.8.8-6. Mod Spec / Constellation (Symbols) ..................................................................... 165

Figure 3.2.8.8-7. Ideal Constellation ............................................................................................. 166

Figure 3.2.8.8-8. Constellation (Samples / Trajectories) ................................................................... 166

Figure 3.2.8.8-9. Submenu after pressing TETRA soft key in Generate mode ..................................... 167

Figure 3.2.8.9-2 dPMR Monitor mode ................................................................................... 171

Figure 3.2.8.9-3 dPMR Voice Recording ................................................................................. 173

Figure 3.2.8.9-4 dPMR Eye Diagram in Display Zone ............................................................... 174

Figure 3.2.8.9-5 dPMR Eye Diagram with display in Fade Away mode ....................................... 175

Figure 3.2.8.9-6 dPMR Generate mode ................................................................................... 176

Figure 3.2.8.10.1-1 Main screen in Monitor mode after selecting the P25 II Test Mode ................. 179

Figure 3.2.8.10.1-2 Main screen in Monitor mode after pressing the P25 II soft key ..................... 180

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.2-1 Test Pattern submenu in P25 II Monitor mode ......................................... 181

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-1 HDQPSK Eye Diagram selection in Display Zone .................................... 183

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-2 Eye Diagram of HCPM and Display Mode Fade Away............................... 184

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-3 Distribution Plot of HDQPSK 1031 Hz Tone .......................................... 185

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-4 Distribution Plot of HCPM 1031 Hz Tone ............................................... 185

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-5 Power Profile Frame ............................................................................. 186

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.3-6 Power Profile Slot with Markers .............................................................. 188

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.4-1 HDQPSK Frequency Constellation ......................................................... 188

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.4-2 HCPM Frequency Constellation ............................................................. 189

Figure 3.2.8.10.1.4-3 P25 Phase 2 Symbol Rate Measurement ................................................... 190

Figure 3.2.8.10.2-1 Main screen in Generate mode after selecting the P25 II soft key .................... 191

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Figure 3.2.8.10.2-2 P25 II Generate mode test patterns ............................................................ 191

Figure 3.2.8.11-1. AutoTune submenu .......................................................................................... 194

Figure 3.2.8.11-2. AutoTune radio test setup ................................................................................. 195

Figure 3.2.8.11-3 AutoTune Activity display. ................................................................................. 196

Figure 3.2.8.11-4. AutoTune test in progress ................................................................................. 197

Figure 3.2.8.11-5. AutoTune Test Limits submenu ......................................................................... 199

Figure 3.2.8.11-6. AutoTune Test Results submenu ........................................................................ 200

Figure 3.2.8.11-7. AutoTune Test Preferences submenu .................................................................. 201

Figure 3.2.8.12-1. AutoScript submenu with no scripts or procedures imported .................................. 204

Figure 3.2.8.12-2. View, Results submenu with results from a procedure execution displayed................ 205

Figure 3.2.8.12-3. Use Toggle Selection to enable or disable script execution ...................................... 206

Figure 3.2.8.12-4. Use Toggle Selection to enable or disable script execution ...................................... 208

Figure 3.2.8.12-5. Example script showing commands for finding a local FM radio station ................... 209

Figure 3.2.8.12-6. Example procedure containing several scripts ....................................................... 210

Figure 3.2.9-1 Submenu after pressing Settings navigation button on R8100 front panel ................. 211

Figure 3.2.9.2-1 Submenu after pressing System Settings soft key in the Settings menu .................. 213

Figure 3.2.9.2-2 Pre-Amplifier alert when broadband measurements are active ............................. 215

Figure 3.2.9.3-1 Submenu after pressing Network Setup soft key in the Settings menu .................. 218

Figure 3.2.9.4-1 Submenu after pressing Messages soft key in the Settings menu ........................... 220

Figure 3.2.9.5-1 Submenu after pressing About soft key in the Settings menu ............................... 221

Figure 3.2.9.5-2 Settings/About/Protocols screen .................................................................... 221

Figure 3.2.9.5-3 Settings/About/Versions screen ................................................................ ..... 222

Figure 3.2.9.5.1-1 Alert screen as R8100 finds a valid update on a USB flash drive ........................ 223

Figure 3.2.9.6-1 Submenu after pressing Options soft key in the Settings menu ............................ 224

Figure 3.2.10-1 File folder location and names for R8100 Screen Captures ................................... 225

Figure 4-1 Remote Front Panel ............................................................................................ 226

Figure 4.3-1 Network Connection Security Alert ...................................................................... 228

Figure 5.1.1-1 Setup for FM Transmitter testing ....................................................................... 232

Figure 5.2.1-1 Setup for FM Receiver testing ........................................................................... 235

Figure 5.3-1 Connections for Cable Fault testing ...................................................................... 237

Figure 5.3.1-1 Cable Fault Instrument Display ......................................................................... 239

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List of Tables

Page

Table 3.2.8.3.1.4-1. DMR Symbols ............................................................................................... 105

Table 3.2.8.4.1.2-1. P25 Symbols ................................................................................................. 113

Table 3.2.8.4.1.3-1. P25 Voice Frame Fields .................................................................................. 119

Table 3.2.8.4.1.3-2. P25 Status Symbol Codes ................................................................................ 119

Table 3.2.8.4.1.3-3. P25 Data Unit Identifier Values ....................................................................... 120

Table 3.2.8.4.1.3-4. P25 Service Options ....................................................................................... 121

Table 3.2.8.4.1.4-1. P25 Voice Frame Fields .................................................................................. 129

Table 3.2.8.4.1.4-2. P25 Link Control Fields for LCO=1 ................................................................. 130

Table 3.2.8.4.1.4-3. P25 Link Control Fields for LCO=3 ................................................................. 131

Table 3.2.8.5-1 P25 Trunk Band Plan Defaults ........................................................................ 138

Table 3.2.8.6.1.2-1. NXDN™ Symbols......................................................................................... 144

Table 3.2.8.9.1.2-1. dPMR Symbols .............................................................................................. 170

Table 3.2.8.9.1.4-1. P25 Phase 2 Logical Channels .......................................................................... 178

Table 3.2.8.10.1.2-1. HDQPSK Symbols....................................................................................... 182

Table B-1 Standard DTMF Tones ....................................................................................... 249

Table B-2 DTMF Frequency Coding* .................................................................................. 249

Table B-3 Private-Line (PL) Codes ...................................................................................... 250

Table B-4 5/6 Tone Paging Tones ....................................................................................... 251

Table B-5 DPL Standard Codes .......................................................................................... 251

Table B-6 Select V Frequencies ........................................................................................... 252

Table B-7 POCSAG Numeric Character Set ......................................................................... 252

Table B-8 POCSAG Alpha-numeric Character Set (7-bit ASCII) ............................................. 252

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Freedom Communication Technologies – R8100 Series Communications System Analyzer

LIMITED WARRANTY

Freedom Communication Technologies Test Equipment Products (herein the "product") that are manufactured by Freedom Communication Technologies are warranted by Freedom Communication Technologies for a period of two (2) years from date of shipment against defects in material and workmanship. This express limited warranty is extended to the original purchaser (herein the "buyer") only and applies only to such defects that: (1) produce repeatable failures resulting in product lock-ups or power downs rendering the product inoperable, or (2) cause the product to perform outside of Freedom Communication Technologies-published specifications.

In the event of such a defect during the period of warranty, the buyer may return the product, transportation prepaid, to Freedom Communication Technologies, 2002 Synergy Blvd. Suite 200, Kilgore Texas 75662. The buyer must include written notice specifying the nature of the defect and proof of purchase and evidence of the date of shipment (dated packing list or invoice). Freedom Communication Technologies, at its option, will either repair or replace the product. If Freedom Communication Technologies elects to repair a defective product by replacing a module or subassembly, Freedom Communication Technologies, at its option, may replace such defective module or subassembly with a new or reconditioned replacement. This Limited Warranty is not extended beyond two years from original date of shipment if Freedom Communication Technologies repairs a product. Transportation charges for the return of the product will be paid by Freedom Communication Technologies.

This Limited Warranty is void if FCT determines:

(1) The product has not been operated in accordance with the procedures in the operating instructions; or (2) The seals on non-user serviceable components or modules are broken; or (3) The product has been subject to misuse, abuse, damage, accident, negligence, attempted repair or alteration.

Freedom Communication Technologies does not warrant that the product will meet buyer's requirements or that the operation of the product will be uninterrupted or error free.

No other warrantees, whether express, implied or statutory, including implied warrantees or merchantability or fitness for particular purpose, are granted to buyer, or buyer's transferees, customers, or users of the product.

In no event shall Freedom Communication Technologies be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising from this agreement or use of the product.

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SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT

PLEASE READ THIS LICENSE AGREEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THE SOFTWARE. BY USING THE SOFTWARE, YOU AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THIS LICENSE. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE, PROMPTLY RETURN THE HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE FOR A REFUND.

1. LICENSE GRANT: As used in this Agreement, the term “Software” means the software embedded in the unit of R8100 Series communications system analyzer (the “Instrument”) sold by Freedom Communication Technologies Inc. (“Licensor”) to you (“Licensee”) either directly or through Licensor’s distribution network. Subject to your acceptance of these terms, Licensor grants to Licensee a non- exclusive license to use the Software and related documentation (the “Documentation”) only in connection with your use of the unit of the

Instrument in which the Software is embedded. 2 OWNERSHIP: This is not a sale of the Software. Licensor and/or its licensors retain ownership of all rights in and to the Software,

including all patent, copyrights, and other intellectual property rights. Licensee may transfer the original Software and Documentation to another entity only in connection with the sale of the unit of the

Instrument in which the Software is embedded, on the condition that the transferee agrees in writing to be bound by the terms of this agreement and Licensee provides to Licensor a copy of such agreement by the transferee.

Licensee will not reproduce, copy, decompile, disassemble, reverse engineer, modify, rent, lease, or create derivative works of the Software, transmit the Software electronically or provide anyone with access to the Software over a network or otherwise.

Licensee will not export, re-export, resell, ship, or divert or cause to be exported, re-exported, resold, shipped, or diverted, directly or indirectly, the Software or Documentation to any country where the United States or Licensee's government or any agency thereof at the time of export or re-export requires an export license or other government approval without first obtaining such license or approval.

3. SCOPE OF USE: Licensee may use the Software only on the specific unit of the Instrument in which the Software is embedded. This license will terminate automatically if Licensee fails to comply with any term or condition of the license.

4. LIMITED WARRANTY: Licensor warrants that under normal use, the Software will perform the functions specified in the Documentation. If the Software does not conform to the Documentation such that its functional performance is significantly impaired and Licensee notifies Licensor in writing within ninety (90) days after the date of purchase and provides to Licensor a copy of the receipt of purchase, Licensor will have the option of refunding the purchase price or replacing the Software as Licensee’s exclusive remedy.

5. LIABILITY: THE WARRANTY SET FORTH IN SECTION 4 IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER STATUTORY, EXPRESS, OR IMPLIED (INCLUDING ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE). LICENSOR WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

6. By using the Software, Licensee acknowledges that Licensee has read this agreement and agrees to be bound by its terms and conditions. LICENSEE FURTHER AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT CONSTITUTES THE ENTIRE UNDERSTANDING OF LICENSEE AND LICENSOR WITH RESPECT TO THE SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF AND COMPLETELY SUPERSEDES ANY PRIOR UNDERSTANDING, EITHER ORAL OR WRITTEN. ANY MODIFICATION OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE MADE ONLY BY MUTUAL AGREEMENT AND EVIDENCED BY WRITTEN AMENDMENT SIGNED BY BOTH PARITIES. This agreement shall be governed and interpreted by the laws of the State of Delaware.

7. U.S. GOVERNMENT: Licensor represents that the Software is either Commercial Computer Software as defined under DFARS

252.227-7014 (June 1995), or non-commercial computer software developed at private expense. If this license is acquired under a U.S. Government civilian agency contract, the Government's rights to use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, display or disclose the Software are subject to restrictions set forth in FAR 52.227-19. If this license is acquired under a U.S. Government Department of Defense contract, the Government's rights to use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, display or disclose the Software are subject to this license agreement. The License Fees identified in Exhibit A and the restrictions set forth in either FAR 52.227-19 or this license agreement do not apply to portions of the Software, if any, in which the U.S. Government has acquired Unlimited Rights.

TRADEMARK NOTICE MOTOTRBO™ Professional Digital Two-Way Radio System Motorola, MOTOTRBO, Private-Line, and Digital Private-Line are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. by Motorola. NXDN™ is a trademark of Icom Incorporated and Kenwood Corporation All other product and service names are the property of their registered owners

Page 13

PRE-OPERATION OVERVIEW

1.1 SCOPE OF MANUAL

This manual contains information for R8100 Series Communications System Analyzer. The R8100 incorporates many devices and functions, permitting a technician to completely monitor and service radio communications equipment in the shop and in the field.

1.2 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 warnings violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the equipment. Freedom Communication Technologies assumes no liability for the customer's failure to comply with these requirements.

The safety precautions and warnings listed below represent warnings of certain dangers of which Freedom Communication Technologies is aware. You as the user of the product should follow these warnings and all other safety precautions necessary for the safe operation of the equipment in your operating environment.

1.2.1 Analyzer Grounding

The R8100 is powered by a provided AC to DC converter connected to a grounded 3 wire AC outlet. The

negative (or “-“) output of the converter is internally connected to AC ground. Since the R8100 uses the

converter’s DC negative as system ground the analyzer is also connected to AC ground at the power outlet.

As a result most of the external connectors on the R8100 chassis are also at AC ground potential.

Warning: To minimize shock hazard it is critical to operate the R8100 with the provided converter and three wire AC power cable. The power cable must be plugged into an approved three-contact electrical outlet. If the unit is not operated from a properly grounded AC power source, any voltage potential

between it and earth ground may cause an electrical shock.

1.2.2 Unit is Live When Plugged In or when Battery is Installed

Internal circuits are live when the DC power cable is plugged in even when the R8100 has been placed in a non-operating mode using the front panel Power switch. To completely remove power from the analyzer internal circuits disconnect the DC power plug and remove the battery. Do not position the equipment such that it is difficult to remove the DC power plug.

1.2.3 Keep Away From Live Circuits

Operating personnel must not remove equipment covers. Only Factory and Authorized Service Personnel may remove equipment covers for internal subassembly, component replacement, or any internal adjustment. Disconnect Analyzer from all voltage sources before removing covers for adjustments, maintenance or repairs. Capacitors inside may still be charged even if the Analyzer is disconnected from the voltage source.

1.2.4 Explosive Atmosphere

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.

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1.3 WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

You should observe several precautions when handling this equipment.

WARNING

The R8100 analyzer is designed to operate with a provided power adapter connected to a properly

grounded 3 wire AC power source. This configuration provides an earth ground connection to the

R8100 internal ground and chassis. If the unit is not operated with the above configuration any volt-

age potential between it and earth ground may cause an electrical shock.

CAUTION

This equipment contains internal parts that are subject to damage by static electricity (ESDS

sensitive). Factory and authorized service personnel must follow proper ESDS precautions when

handling internal components during repair or calibration.

CAUTION

The AC/DC adapter provided with this equipment is not rated for outdoor use. Do not use this

adapter outdoors, especially where water or rain could be present.

CAUTION

This equipment contains a Rechargeable Smart Lithium Ion Battery. Only use a model RRC2020

battery in the R8100. Do not attempt to insert any other type of battery into the battery enclosure of

the R8100.

1.3.1 Analyzer Operating Voltage

The R8100 is powered by 15-16 VDC and operates from a three-wire AC outlet using an AC to DC adapter. Warning: it is critical that only the adapter provided by Freedom Communication

Technologies and shipped with the analyzer is used to power the R8100. Do not substitute other adapters without first consulting Freedom Communication Technologies support personnel or a factory authorized service center. Make certain to plug the adapter into a properly grounded three-wire

AC outlet.

1.3.2 DC Power Source

Warning: Connecting the Analyzer DC input to an external Power Supply can, in the event of a power supply fault, cause hazardous voltages to be present on the low voltage circuits of the Analyzer.

1.3.3 Battery Battery Type

Rechargeable Lithium Ion (Li Ion) Battery pack 9x18650 cells (3S3P) with

11.25V / 8850mAh / 99.6 Wh

Compliance information

CE/ UL2054 / UL1642 / FCC IEC 62133 / EN6095 / ROHS UN 38.3 / PSE / RCM

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Shipping

Remove battery from unit before shipment. See shipping requirements of your carrier.

See “Technical Specifications” for more details about the battery

The maximum input levels are: 70 VAC RMS /100 VDC (R8100 input impedance set to 1 MΩ). 15 VAC RMS /24 VDC (R8100 input impedance set to 600 Ω).

1.3.4 Maximum Meter In Voltages

WARNING

To ensure the safety of the user the Meter In port should not be used to measure equipment

containing mains voltages.

The maximum input levels are:

33 VAC RMS /70 VDC (R8100 input impedance set to 1 MΩ). 15 VAC RMS /24 VDC (R8100 input impedance set to 600 Ω).

1.3.5 Replacement Fuses

There are no user serviceable fuses on the R8100. The unit is internally protected against overloads and risk of fire. If the R8100 fails to operate return it to the factory or an authorized repair center for diagnosis and repair.

The R8100 Generate Output Port provides port protection against RF power input up to 5 W continuous. Power levels above 5 W may damage the port if applied for a significant amount of time. If the operator desires further port protection the 50RF-038 fuse may be obtained from JFW Industries and attached to the Generate Output Port.

1.3.6 Other Cautions

Other cautions relating to the operation of the Analyzer are stated in Italics throughout this manual.

CAUTION – HOT SURFACES

The RF I/O Port connector may become hot when inputting power. Exercise caution when removing

cabling from the RF I/O Port.

1.3.7 User Maintenance of exterior surfaces

Clean only with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Do not use abrasives, solvents or alcohol. If the Analyzer is used in a relatively dust free environment, no other periodic maintenance should be required.

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1.4 SERVICE

All R8100 Series Communications System Analyzers are calibrated and repaired at the Freedom Communication Technologies factory:

FREEDOM COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES

2002 Synergy Blvd. Suite 200 Kilgore Texas 75662 USA Tel/Fax: 1-844-903-7333

1.5 REPLACEMENT PARTS ORDERS

Send orders for user serviceable replacement parts to the Freedom Communication Technologies factory listed in section 1.4. Be sure to include the complete identification number located on the equipment.

1.6 INSTALLATION

1.6.1 Packing

Foam pieces protect the Analyzer, which is packed inside a carton. Save the packing container and materials for future use.

1.6.2 Initial Set-up

1. Place the Analyzer on a workbench in the shop or mobile repair unit.

2. Flip out the two lever actuated foot extensions underneath the front of the unit to raise the

Analyzer for easier viewing.

3. Take the power cord of the AC to DC adapter and connect to a 3-wire 100-240 VAC power

source. Attach the cord's DC plug to the mating connector on the R8100 side panel.

4. Remove battery from separate box and install at door on lower left side of unit. See Figure 2.1-2.

5. Remove accessories from the soft carry case (if provided).

6. Insert the whip antenna into the Antenna port, located to the right of the tuning knob on the front

panel.

7. Press the Power switch ON and allow the R8100 to boot up.

1.6.3 Warm-up

The analyzer can be used immediately after boot up with best accuracy achieved after a suitable warm-up period. The OCXO time base stabilizes within 5 minutes of operation permitting frequency dependent measurements at the specified accuracy of the analyzer, e.g., operating frequency, frequency error, audio tone generation, etc. For all other measurements a minimum warm-up of 15 minutes is recommended to be within specifications. Full measurement stability is reached after 30 minutes of running in the operation environment. Before using the Analyzer review the operating procedures described in this manual.

ANALYZER OVERVIEW

1.7 Description

The R8100 Communication System Analyzer is a portable test instrument designed to monitor and service radio communications equipment over the frequency range of 250 kHz to 3 GHz. The R8100 generates and receives signals, measures modulation and frequency, and performs a variety of tests normally associated with the following equipment:

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             

RF Signal Generator Sensitive Measurement Receiver Spectrum Analyzer Duplex Offset Generator Oscilloscope Frequency Counter AC/DC Voltmeter RF Wattmeter Cable Fault Analyzer (optional) Tracking Generator (optional) Signaling Encoder/Decoder Signal Strength Meter SINAD Meter Distortion Analyzer

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Firmware options provide test capability for advanced digital radio protocols such as P25 1&11, DMR, NXDN™, dPMR, TETRA, PTC and others as developed. The analyzer’s controls, indicators and connectors are shown in Figures 2.1-1 and 2.1-2, with a description of these physical features detailed in section 2.3

Figure 2.1-1 Front Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connectors

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Figure 2.1-2 Left and Right Sides of the R8100

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1.8 Technical Specifications

1.8.1 AC Adapter Specifications

Input Voltage: 100-240 VAC Input Current: 2.5A Max Input Frequency: 50-60 Hz Operating Temp: 0° to +40° C Storage Temp: -20° to +85° C

1.8.2 Port Specifications

Demod Out: ±8V PK (600 Ohms), 13.3 mA Mod In: 1V PK REF; ±1.5V PK MAX (600 Ohms), 2.5 mA Mod Out: ±8V PK (100 Ohms), 80 mA Meter In: 33 VAC RMS/70 VDC (1M Ohm) Max; 15 VAC RMS/24 VDC (600

Ohms) Max, 40 mA RF Gen Out: Do Not Input Power; +5 dBm Max Out, 250 kHz - 3 GHz (50 Ohms) Port Protection: 5 Watts/30 seconds Max RF In: Absolute Max Power (250 kHz to 3 GHz) – 150 Watts (50 Ohms), 1.7A 50 Watts - 5 minutes ON Max/5 minutes OFF Min (0° to 50° C) 150 Watts - 30 seconds ON Max/5 minutes OFF Min (25° to 50° C) 150 Watts - 1.5 minutes ON Max/15 minutes OFF Min (0° to 25° C) RF Out: -30 dBm Max Out, 250 kHz - 3 GHz (50 Ohms), 0.142 mA Antenna: 0 dBm Max, 250 kHz - 3 GHz (50 Ohms), 4.5 mA Port Protection: 5 Watts Max

1.8.3 Mechanical Specifications

Weight: < 14 lbs (6.4 kg) Dimensions: 9.4” (23.9 cm) high, 12.7” (32.3 cm) wide, 7.5” (19.1 cm) deep Operating Temp: 0° to 40° C Storage Temp: -30° to 80° C Altitude: Up to 2,000 m Humidity: 80% maximum relative humidity

1.8.4 Battery Specifications Battery Type

Rechargeable Lithium Ion (Li Ion) Battery pack

9x18650 cells (3S3P) with

11.25V / 8850mAh / 99.6 Wh

Compliance information

CE/ UL2054 / UL1642 / FCC IEC 62133 / EN6095 / ROHS UN 38.3 / PSE / RCM

Operating temperature

0c to 45 C (charging)

-20C to 55C (discharging)

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Storage temperature

-20c to 50c max Do not subject the battery to temperatures below -20C nor above +50C

For additional technical specifications of the R8100, refer to the R8100 Datasheet located on the Freedom website, www.freedomcte.com.

1.9 Operator Interface and Controls

The R8100 was designed to be intuitive and easy to operate. A large LCD display screen shows the current operating mode along with associated settings, readings, and additional test submenus. Information about monitor settings and test results is visually grouped in outlined panels. The panels are highlighted when active for accepting data entries or changes in settings. Test results are shown numerically in labeled text fields and/or displayed graphically when appropriate.

The primary operating modes of the R8100 are Monitor, Generator, Duplex, Instrument, Test, and Settings. These are accessed with dedicated navigation keys near the main tuning knob on the front panel (see Figure 2.1-1). Commonly used operating adjustments are made with a few simple keystrokes. Several methods are available for entering numeric values and adjusting user settings. These include:

Function soft keys - Two groups of non-dedicated (soft) keys are located at the bottom and right side of the main LCD display. The current key function is shown in the adjacent screen area and changes with the operating mode of the R8100 and the specific test in progress. Pressing a soft key executes one of several possible actions. These include: opening a numeric data entry window; providing additional selections for user settings; activating new submenus; or performing a single measurement task (peak search, etc). Multiple presses of the same key will toggle through all available selections for the setting.

Direct Entry - Numeric values can be entered directly using the digital keypad when a data entry window is shown on the display. Existing values are modified using the Left/Right (◄►) keys to move a highlighted cursor over the desired number. The cursor automatically steps to the right after a keypress. Pressing Enter completes the entry while the Esc key cancels the change. In the case of entering an RF

frequency, pressing a scaling unit key (like “kHz”) also completes the numeric entry. Note: You can also

adjust highlighted values using the Up/Down keys (▲▼) and tuning knob, but the R8100 will respond in real time as the changes are made.

Tuning (Spin) Knob - A separate tuning knob allows real time rotational adjustment of numeric values, simulating the smooth continuous operation of an analog tuning control. For example, you can manually scan an RF frequency segment for an unknown carrier. The spin knob adjusts whichever digit is

highlighted in the data entry window by the Left/Right (◄►) keys. Continuous rotation of the knob

provides a step change equal to the smallest value of the highlighted digit. The knob also cycles through the selections available when a soft key activates a window that displays user determined settings. Selections can also be chosen using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys. The spin knob has a “Press to Enter” function that has the same result as pressing the Enter key.

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1.9.1 Front Panel Control Keys

Power Switch

Press to turn the R8100 on and cycle through the boot-up sequence. When operating, pressing the switch for 3 seconds or less turns the R8100 off with an orderly power down sequence (recommended). Pressing the switch for 4 seconds or more forces an abrupt shutdown (should be avoided).

Navigation Keys (Monitor, Generate, Duplex, Instrument, Test, Settings)

These keys determine the operating mode of the R8100. The current RF operating mode (Monitor, Generate, Duplex) is shown in a tab displayed at the bottom left of the main screen. An adjacent tab shows the current Test mode (Standard or optional modes like DMR, Project 25, NXDN, dPMR, TETRA, etc).

Soft Keys (unlabeled groups of 7 buttons below and 6 buttons to the right of the LCD display)

Each soft key function is determined by the operating mode of the R8100 and the specific test in progress as indicated by an adjacent label on the LCD display.

Numeric Key Pad Area

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For entering and controlling the format of alphanumeric data used by the R8100. Specific key functions are as follows:

Keys (0-9) and (shifted letters A–Z).

These keys enter alphanumeric information into the analyzer. Pressing a key during data entry places a new value into the highlighted symbol or number on the analyzer screen. The analyzer then reacts to the new information just entered. If an invalid entry is attempted, the key press is ignored and the numeral on the screen remains unchanged.

“Hot keys” 1, 2, 4/5, & 7/8 also serve as shortcuts that directly activate the 4 “Operating Zones” used

for settings and metering in the R8100 Monitor, Generator, and Duplex modes – see paragraph 3.1.2. The zone displays are arranged on the R8100 main screen just like the outline around the hot keys. Pressing the hot key activates the zone and displays the associated settings submenu. Hot keys allow jumping from one zone to another while in Monitor, Generator, or Duplex mode without navigating back to the main screen.

+/- Key

Toggles the numeric sign from its present value to the negative of its present value.

Bksp Key

Moves the display highlight to a previously entered alphanumeric entry to allow editing.

Shift Key

Changes the function of some numeric keys on the R8100 to alpha or letter designation (A-Z). May also activate a special function on analyzer when appropriate.

GHz, MHz, KHz, Hz Keys

Apply the indicated scaling units to numeric RF frequency entries.

Enter Key

Equivalent to an “execute” key. It completes an entry from the alphanumeric keypad or a setting

change so the R8100 will operate with the new value..

Esc Key

Cancels an action before it is completed or returns to a previous menu. For example, pressing Esc while entering a value with the numeric keypad closes the direct entry window and leaves the original

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value unchanged. Esc also returns to previous modes or windows when navigating the R8100’s operational menus.

▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄► (Left/Right) Keys

The arrow keys move a highlighted cursor over the alphanumeric digits in data entry windows to allow changes. They also step through the available selections in windows that display user determined settings. The R8100 responds in real time to changes made by the arrow keys.

RF On/Off Key

Disconnects the internal RF Generator from the RF In/Out and RF Gen Out ports. The current RF state is displayed at the bottom right of the screen next to the message bar. The key does not function in the Monitor operational mode.

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1.9.2 Front Panel Control Knobs

Mon Port

Minimum

Maximum

Antenna

-130 dBm

-20 dBm

RF In/Out

-100 dBm

+10 dBm

Tuning (Spin) Knob

Incrementally changes the value of the highlighted digit in an alphanumeric entry field. Clockwise rotation increases the value, counter-clockwise rotation decreases the value. The Tuning Knob affects the R8100 in real time providing the equivalent of an analog rotational control at the cursor location for a numeric entry. The knob also cycles through the selections available when a soft key activates a window displaying user determined settings. The knob may be pushed (click) to perform the same function as the Enter key

Sql. Knob

Squelch control. Clockwise rotation increases the receiver signal threshold level required to open the squelch. The fully counter-clockwise position disabled squelch, i.e. forced open. The level in dBm is displayed in the lower right corner of the main display. The level is applied to the input signal strength of the RF carrier (not the recovered audio) so that measurements can be performed on un-modulated carriers. For signals below the level, various demodulation operations cease, e.g. speaker audio is muted and the Frequency Error and Deviation readings are blanked out.

The squelch threshold level range is based on RF Zone RF Zone / Monitor Mode Mon Port setting: Knob tolerance is 4 dB.

Note: Additional functions utilize squelch; see RF Scan and Voice Loopback for various test modes.

Vol. Knob

Controls volume of the speaker audio - a clockwise rotation increases the volume. Fully counter-clockwise is muted.

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1.9.3 Front Panel Display and Indicators

LCD Display

8.4 inch diagonal bit-mapped LCD. Provides operational status, data, soft key driven menu based

operating controls, and instructional information. Displays in digital, analog, and bar graph forms.

NOTE

The LCD has a screen/power saver feature that reduces intensity after approximately 30 minutes of

inactivity. Press any key to restore the display.

LED Indicators

Needs new photo

The status of certain ports and controls is displayed by an adjacent LED indicator. An illuminated indicator means the port is active and is either accepting an input or providing an output signal. This applies to the Antenna, Demod Out, Mod In/Out, Meter In, RF In/Out, and RF Gen Out ports. An LED indicator next to the Sql. knob illuminates when the RF input signal to the R8100 is above the set squelch threshold.

Front Panel Connectors

Antenna

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Low level RF input port for the sensitive receiver monitor on the R8100. Used for off-the-air and other low level measurements where the RF power is below 0 dBm.

CAUTION

Do not apply high level RF Power to the Antenna port.

Lower front panel connectors Needs new photo

RF In/Out

Bidirectional port that routes RF input signals to the analyzer's internal monitor or output signals from the analyzer's internal generator. Also provides combined input/output in Duplex mode and contains the RF wattmeter load. Note: This is the only front panel connector to which high level RF power may be applied.

RF Gen Out

A high level generator RF output port isolated from the Monitor input.

CAUTION

Do not apply RF Power to the Generator port.

Meter In

Combined input port for oscilloscope vertical, SINAD meter, Distortion meter, and DVM/counter functions,

Mod In/Out

When configured as an output, this port provides a composite sum of all internally generated modulation signals applied to the R8100 RF carrier. When set as an input, audio signals external to the R8100 can be used to modulate the RF carrier. Note: The audio signals must equal +/- 1Vpk to provide a reference for accurate display of the applied modulation level.

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CAUTION

Do not exceed +/- 1.5 Vpk on the Mod In/Out port or damage may occur to internal circuitry.

Demod Out

Provides the demodulated (recovered) audio output from a received carrier when the R8100 is in Monitor or Duplex mode.

Mic In

RJ-45 connector for external accessory microphone.

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1.9.3.1 Side Panel Connectors

Needs new photo

VGA Out

Provides a 15 pin connection to external VGA format color monitor.

USB (2)

USB serial ports for external peripheral devices such as keyboard or flash drive.

Ethernet

RJ-45 connector for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN port for computer network interface.

Ref. In/Out

BNC connector provides input/output for 10 MHz reference frequency. Input impedance is 50 Ω. Input level requirement is 70 mV to 1V RMS. Output level is approximately 250mV RMS.

DC Power

Primary DC power input port. Note: The R8100 requires 24 VDC – connect only the AC to DC adapter provided by Freedom Communication Technologies to this port. Do not substitute other adapters without first consulting Freedom Communication Technologies support personnel or a factory authorized service center.

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2 OPERATION

2.1 Overview

The R8100 is operated using an intuitive and easy to navigate system of front panel keys and menu driven display interface. Dedicated navigation (BLUE) keys on the front panel enable the primary operating modes. Functions within the main operating modes have an associated display area where important operational settings and measurements are grouped for easy viewing (see figure 3.1.1-1). The groupings

include the RF Zone, Audio Zone, Display Zone and Meter Zone. These “Operating Zones” are

highlighted when active for user entry as shown in figure 3.1.1-2 for the RF Zone. Menus next to the soft keys on the right and bottom of the display show the Zone settings available for adjustment. Pressing a soft key menu brings up a data entry window or additional submenus as required.

The primary operating modes of the R8100 are controlled by the following blue navigation buttons left of the ANTENNA port on the front panel:

Monitor

RF receiver mode with frequency coverage from 250 kHz to 3 GHz. Provides signal strength, frequency accuracy, and other metering results while decoding the modulation content of incoming RF carriers to produce a recovered baseband signal. Additional analysis provided by spectrum analyzer and modulation scopes.

Generate

RF generator mode with frequency coverage from 250 kHz to 3 GHz. Produces an RF carrier with user selected output level, modulation type (AM, FM, etc), and tone encoding formats.

Duplex

Duplex mode allowing simultaneous operation and independent control of the generator and receiver.

Instrument

Directly accesses a full screen version of graphically displayed test functions such as the spectrum analyzer, tracking generator and oscilloscope.

Test

Recall or save operator preset analyzer settings and access application specific test functions.

Settings

System configuration mode for viewing and entering general operating parameters for the R8100 such as the date/time, network/port settings for remote control, etc.

2.1.1 Basic navigation and operator control

Status information is displayed at the bottom of the display, listed from left to right:, battery state, current test mode, message bar, and RF On/Off state.

Pressing a navigation button places the R8100 into the labeled operating mode or screen and presents related information on the display. Figure 3.1.1-1 shows the R8100 in Monitor mode after pressing the Monitor navigation button

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The RF Zone upper left display area shows the RF settings and measured results during monitor operation. This includes the frequency of operation (Mon Freq), the signal input port (Mon Port), the input Attenuation, and other relevant data.

Figure 3.1.1-1 Main screen in Monitor mode showing related information in grouped display zones

Six soft keys to the right enable selection and adjustment of monitor specific modes and parameters. Figure 3.1.1-1 shows the R8100 display after pressing hard key No1 on the numerical keyboard while in Monitor or Duplex mode – note the RF Zone section is highlighted. This indicates it is active for user entry and a new submenu with related selections appears next to the soft keys on the right. Pressing the Esc key returns the R8100 to the previous menu.

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Figure 3.1.1-2 Main display area after Audio Zone soft key press

Figure 3.1.1-2 shows the R8100 display after pressing the after pressing hard key No4 on the numerical keyboard Pressing the Fixed 1kHz Level soft key brings up a data entry window for user entered data as shown in Figure 3.1.1-4. The value can be adjusted with the front panel keypad and tuning controls. The

Left/Right (◄►) keys move the highlight over the desired number field. Numeric changes are entered directly via the keypad, or in steps using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or Tuning Knob.

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Figure 3.1.1-4 Audio Zone data entry for Fixed 1 kHz Level

Data entry windows always start with the left most numeric field highlighted. Entering a value with the numeric keypad automatically steps the highlight to the right to speed the entry process. Pressing the

Up/Down (▲▼) keys or rotating the Tuning Knob adjusts the value in step increments. If the value in

the numeric field rises above 9 or goes below zero the excess is rolled over into the base number. The R8100 stops accepting numeric changes when the value reaches the maximum or minimum allowed for that parameter. During the entry process pressing Enter completes the entry and pressing Esc cancels the input.

2.1.2 Hot keys for fast navigation in Monitor, Audio, Display and Meter zones

“Hot keys” 1, 2, 4 & 5 on the numeric keypad are shortcuts that directly activate the 4 “Operating Zones” used for settings and metering in the R8100 Monitor, Generator, and Duplex modes. The outline

around the hot keys is drawn to match the arrangement of the Operating Zone displays on the R8100 main screen – see Figure 3.1.2-1.

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Pressing a hot key directly activates the Operating Zone and displays its associated settings submenu. This allows jumping from one zone to another while in Monitor, Generator, or Duplex mode without navigating back to the main screen. The hot keys activate the respective zones and submenu as follows:

RF Zone – Press numeric hot key 1 Audio Zone – Press numeric hot key 4 Display Zone – Press numeric hot key 2 Meter Zone – Press numeric hot key 5

Figure 3.1.2-1 Outline around Numeric Keypad Hot Keys

Note: Hot keys are inactive whenever there is a data entry window open or the horizontal soft key menu below the display is shown. Press the Esc key to close data entry windows or horizontal soft key menus before using hot keys in Monitor, Generator, or Duplex mode.

2.2 Operating Instructions

The main operating modes of the R8100 are oriented towards testing 2-way radios and related infrastructure. So for a majority of applications the R8100 will either receive or generate an RF carrier and display carrier specific information such as power level, modulation content, spectral content, etc. The description of R8100 operation will initially focus on basic use as a monitor and generator then expand into more detail on associated functions.

2.2.1 RF Zone / Monitor Mode

The R8100 Monitor mode provides the analyzer's receiver function used for testing radio transmitters. It is capable of monitoring over the air (OTA) RF signals through its ANTENNA port or with a direct connection to the transmitter at the RF In/Out port. The operating frequency range is from 250 kHz to 3.0 GHz in 1 Hz increments with selectable bandwidths between 6.25 kHz and 200 kHz. The analyzer processes AM and FM modulated carriers and a variety of audio encoding formats. Once set to an RF carrier’s center frequency the R8100 accurately determines the frequency error, power level, and modulation characteristics. These are shown at the bottom of the RF Zone section of the main display, below the separator line – see Figure 3.2.1-1. Expanded versions of these measurements are also available in the Bar Graphs selection in the Display Zone.

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Figure 3.2.1-1 RF Zone display area showing Monitor Mode data

To enable the R8100 Monitor mode press the Monitor navigation button from within any menu and confirm that “Monitor” is indicated in the lower left corner of the R8100 main display. Then press the Esc button repeatedly until the soft keys to the right of the display area indicate RF Zone, Audio Zone, Display Zone, and Meter Zone. This places the R8100 at the entry point for adjusting basic Monitor mode settings such as frequency, modulation type, etc. Note: In Monitor mode you can bypass standard menu

navigation and jump directly to another Zone and its settings submenu with the appropriate hot key - see paragraph 3.1.2.

Input Level

Displays the RF input level of the received carrier. Different units may be selected with the Input Level Units setting.

Note: When the RF input power on the RF In/Out port is above +20 dBm (100 mW), the R8100 utilizes a

broadband power detector for the measurement. The “Input Lvl” field in the RF Zone changes to “Watt

Meter” to indicate this measurement mode

Watt Meter

Displays the level of broadband power applied to the RF In/Out port. Different units may be selected with the Input Level Units setting in the RF Zone submenu.

Note: For best Watt Meter accuracy disable the Pre-amplifier in Monitor Mode, and set the Gen Port in Generate Mode to RF In/Out.

Freq Error

Displays the frequency difference of the received carrier frequency minus the R8100 Monitor Frequency.

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Deviation

Displays the positive peak frequency deviation of the received modulated carrier (i.e. from the Frequency Error mean) - available when Modulation mode is FM. See negative peak frequency deviation with Display Zone Bar Graphs.

%AM

Displays the positive peak AM percentage of the received modulated carrier - available when Modulation mode is AM.

Setting the Monitor’s RF operating parameters in the RF Zone

To adjust the RF settings press the hot key 1. The RF Zone area of the display highlights and the soft key submenu shown in Figure 3.2.1-2 appears with the following selections:

Figure 3.2.1-2 Monitor Mode submenu after RF Zone soft key press

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Monitor Frequency

Input Port

Maximum input level for using pre-amplifier

Antenna

(Input signal in dBm – Attenuator setting) is equal or less than -40 dBm

RF In/Out

(Input signal in dBm – Attenuator setting) is equal or less than -10 dBm

Sets the desired monitor frequency in a data entry window from 250 kHz to 3 GHZ using the arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Copy Frequency to Generator

Sets the R8100 Generator to the same frequency as the Monitor

Modulation Type

Activates a horizontal submenu with selections for the signal demodulation mode of the R8100 receiver either FM or AM.

Bandwidth

Selects the IF detection bandwidth via horizontal soft keys from 6.25 kHz (narrow) to 200 kHz (wide). Note: For best measurement quality always set an IF bandwidth no wider than necessary for the signal

carrier of interest. Example: Typical channel spacing for modern narrowband 2-way radio is 12.5 kHz. Monitor IF bandwidths that are wider than needed for the channel spacing allow more noise in the measurement and degrade the quality of readings for deviation, frequency error, SINAD, etc.

Attenuation

Adjusts the RF input signal attenuation in 2 dB steps from 0 to 90 dB in a selection table window using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Pre-Amplifier

Enables a supplementary input amplifier that extends the sensitivity of the RF Monitor by improving the

S/N ratio for low signal levels. Green highlighted “AMP” text appears in the RF Display zone whenever

the Pre-Amplifier is active. Note: By default the R8100 Pre-Amplifier Auto-Off feature disables the Pre-Amplifier for best accuracy

during broadband power (Watt Meter) measurements (see section 3.2.9.2). When enabled, avoid input overload and erroneous signal strength readings by using the pre-amplifier only under the following conditions:

Mon Port

Monitors the RF input signal from either the ANTENNA or the RF In/Out front panel connectors. Choose in a selection table window using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

CAUTION

Do not apply input power to the Antenna input port.

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Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Mon Port label is cyan-colored indicating that RX measurements

are adjusted by the Mon Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

Input Level Units

Selects the measuring units for the RF Zone input level display (“Input Lvl”) via horizontal soft keys.

Choices are Volts, Watts, or dBm.

Direct entry example:

Figures 3.2.1-3 and 3.2.1-4 show the data entry and RF Zone windows after pressing the Monitor Frequency soft key and entering 501.234567 MHz via the numeric keypad. The data entry window starts with the left most numeric field highlighted. As the value is entered on the keypad the highlight automatically steps to the right. Pressing Enter or a units key (MHz, etc) completes the change while Esc cancels the entry.

Figure 3.2.1-3 Data entry window before and after Monitor frequency change

Figure 3.2.1-4 RF Zone display area after Monitor frequency change

Real time adjustments using the tuning knob and arrow keys.

In many data entry windows the R8100 will respond immediately before the Enter key is pressed if the

Up/Down (▲▼) keys or tuning (spin) knob are used to change the numeric value. An example of this is

the frequency entry adjustment in Monitor mode. Here the operator can use the tuning (spin) knob to

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manually scan an RF frequency segment for an unknown carrier, with the smooth action associated with an analog control. The spin knob adjusts whichever digit is highlighted in the data entry field by the Left/Right (◄►) cursor control buttons. Continuous rotation of the knob steps the frequency adjustment by the smallest value of the highlighted digit. Moving the highlight to a different field allows coarse (faster) or fine (slower) tuning as desired. The tuning knob may be pressed at any time to Enter the

current value The Up/Down (▲▼) keys provide precise step changes for final adjustment after the

R8100 is quickly dialed close to the desired frequency.

2.2.2 RF Zone / Generate Mode

The R8100 Generator mode is the analyzer's transmitter function used for testing radio receivers over a frequency range of 250 kHz to 3.0 GHz in 1 Hz increments. The RF carrier output is accessible through the RF Gen Out or RF In/Out ports for over the air (OTA) operation or direct coupling into a receiver. The output level is adjustable from -95 dBm to +5 dBm on the RF Gen Out port, and -130 dBm to -30 dBm on the RF In/Out port. A variety of modulation types and encoding formats are available for the RF carrier. Figure 3.2.2-1 shows the R8100 in the generate mode in the RF Zone section of the main display.

Figure 3.2.2-1 RF Zone display area showing Generator Mode data

To enable the R8100 Generate mode press the Generate navigation button from within any menu and confirm that “Generate” is indicated in the lower left corner of the R8100 main display. Then press the Esc button repeatedly until the soft keys to the right of the display area indicate RF Zone, Audio Zone, Display Zone, and Meter Zone. This places the R8100 at the entry point for adjusting basic Generate mode settings such as frequency, modulation type etc. Note: In Generate mode you can bypass standard

menu navigation and jump directly to a Zone and its settings submenu with the appropriate hot key – see paragraph 3.1.2.

Output Level

Output Lvl (gray) displays the Generator RF output level. Volts, Watts, or dBm units may be selected with the Output Level Units setting in the RF Zone submenu.

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Setting the Generator’s RF operating parameters in the RF Zone

To adjust the RF settings press the RF Zone soft key or hot key 1. The RF Zone area of the display highlights and a new soft key submenu appears as shown in Figure 3.2.2-2. The soft key selections are as follows:

Figure 3.2.2-2 Generator Mode submenu after RF Zone soft key press

Generator Frequency

Sets the desired monitor frequency in a data entry window from 250 kHz to 3 GHZ using the arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Copy Frequency to Monitor

Sets the R8100 Monitor to the same frequency as the Generator.

Modulation Type

Activates a horizontal submenu with selections for the carrier modulation mode of the R8100 – either FM or AM. Note: Output Level upper limits are reduced in AM to accommodate peak power levels.

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Output Level

Output Level (white) adjusts the RF level of the transmitted carrier for the active output port. Range is from -95 dBm to +5 dBm on the RF Gen Out port, and -130 dBm to -30 dBm on the RF In/Out port. When Modulation Type is AM, the upper limits are -1 dBm and -36 dBm respectively.

Gen Port

Choose the active port (RF In/Out or Gen Out) for the R8100 carrier output in a selection table using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Gen Port label is cyan-colored indicating that Output Level amplitudes are adjusted by the Gen Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

Bandwidth

Sets the maximum occupied bandwidth in kHz for the R8100’s carrier via a set of horizontal soft keys. The range is from 6.25 kHz (narrow) to 200 kHz (wide).

Output Level Units

Selects the measurement units for setting the Generator RF output level via horizontal soft keys. Choices are Volts, Watts, or dBm, and the level is displayed in the Output Level field in the RF Zone display window.

2.2.3 RF Zone / Duplex Mode

The R8100 Duplex mode provides simultaneous generator and monitor operation for testing radio transceivers with full duplex capability, or radio systems with offset transmit and receive frequencies. All RF parameters of the R8100 generator and monitor are independently adjustable during Duplex operation except the shared functions of modulation type and bandwidth. Duplex mode provides offset frequency operation of the generator and monitor over the full frequency range of the R8100. Figure 3.2.3-1 shows Duplex operation of the R8100 in the RF Zone section of the main display.

Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Gen Port and Mon Port labels are cyan-colored indicating that Output Level amplitudes and RX measurements are adjusted by the Gen Port and Mon Port-specific offsets. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

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Figure 3.2.3-1 RF Zone display after Duplex key press

To enable the R8100 Generate mode press the Duplex navigation button from within any menu and confirm that “Duplex” is indicated in the lower left corner of the R8100 main display. Then press the Esc button repeatedly until the soft keys to the right of the display area indicate RF Zone, Audio Zone, Display Zone, and Meter Zone. This places the R8100 at the entry point for adjusting basic Duplex mode settings such as frequency, modulation type etc. Note: In Duplex mode you can bypass standard menu navigation

and jump directly to a Zone and its settings submenu with the appropriate hot key – see paragraph 3.1.2.

Setting RF operating parameters in Duplex mode in the RF Zone

To adjust the RF settings press the RF Zone soft key or hot key 1. The RF Zone area of the display highlights and the soft key submenu shown in Figure 3.2.3-2 appears. Most of the soft keys duplicate the independent generator and monitor adjustments described in sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2. The Modulation Type and Bandwidth settings are common and simultaneously applied to the generator and monitor.

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Figure 3.2.3-2 Duplex Mode submenu after RF Zone soft key press

Audio Zone

The R8100 Generate and Monitor modes have a variety of audio settings and encoding/decoding features, many of which are associated with modulation of the carrier transmitted from the R8100. The audio/modulation sources include a fixed 1 kHz tone generator, independent variable frequency Tone A/Tone B generators, a dedicated DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-Frequency) generator, and a synthesizer for generating various other encoding formats used in 2-way radio testing. The Audio Zone also has the baseband filter settings for the R8100 Monitor mode. Decoding function displays for the carrier recovered audio are primarily located in the Meter Zone.

The display presentation for the Audio Zone on the R8100 main screen changes depending on the R8100 mode. Figure 3.2.4-1 shows the Audio Zone display area with the R8100 in Generate mode. Note the

field description of “Mod Sum” towards the upper right, and that the level is in kHz. In Generate mode

this synthesizer generated composite audio modulates the internally generated RF carrier on the R8100. The carrier modulation level is indicated in units of deviation for FM (kHz) or percent for AM. The composite audio modulation is also available on the Mod In/Out connector.

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Figure 3.2.4-1 Audio Zone display with the R8100 in Generate mode

Figure 3.2.4-2 shows the Audio Zone display area with the R8100 in Monitor mode. In Monitor mode

the audio synthesizers operate like a standalone audio generator since they’re not modulating a carrier

internal to the R8100. Note the field description of “Audio Sum” towards the upper right and that the level is in Volts (V). This level is the composite sum of all audio sources enabled. The composite audio signal is available on the Mod In/Out connector.

Figure 3.2.4-2 Audio Zone display with the R8100 in Monitor mode

2.2.3.1 Setting audio operating parameters in Monitor mode

Figure 3.2.4.1-1 shows page 1 of the Audio Zone submenu in Monitor mode after the soft key press. Recall that the R8100 audio synthesizers operate like a standalone audio generator in this mode and the signal is directed to the Mod In/Out connector. This is the first of several menu pages with settings mainly associated with the audio synthesizer. The number of menu pages varies with the selected audio format.

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The last page of the Audio Zone submenu also contains the baseband filter settings for the R8100 Monitor mode.

Note: Audio Zone submenu screens display common settings along with menu choices that change to reflect the Format (signal type) chosen for the audio synthesizer. Different submenu screens and settings appear when other encoding types such as DPL, A/B Sequence, or 5/6 Tone are selected with the Format soft key. The following sections will first describe the common settings, followed by the alternate settings specific to each encoding format.

Figure 3.2.4.1-1 Audio Zone submenu in Monitor mode

2.2.3.2 Common Audio Settings for the Audio Zone submenu

Fixed 1kHz Level

Adjusts the fixed 1 kHz tone generator amplitude from 0 to 8V Peak in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

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Fixed 1 kHz Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off or Continuous selection for the 1 kHz tone generator. When the tone is activated the Fixed 1kHz field is highlighted in green.

Synth Level

Adjusts the synthesized audio generator amplitude from 0 to 8V Peak in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob. This is an independent generator used for encoded audio such as PL, DPL, A/B Sequence, etc.

Synth Format

Activates a horizontal submenu with selections for the Synth encoding format – PL, DPL, DPL Invert, A/B Sequence, 5/6 Tone, POCSAG, and General Sequence – see Figure 3.2.4.2-1. Selecting the format makes it the active encoding type for the audio synthesizer. Note: See paragraph 3.2.4.3 for specific submenu selections for these formats.

Figure 3.2.4.2-1 Format submenu in Audio Zone

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Synth Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off or Continuous selection for the Synth generator.

Tone A Level

Adjusts the “A” variable tone generator amplitude from 0 to 8V Peak in a data entry window using the

arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Tone A Frequency

Adjusts the “A” variable tone generator frequency from 0 to 19999 Hz in a data entry window using the

arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Tone A Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off or Continuous selection for the Tone A generator.

Tone B Level

Adjusts the “B” variable tone generator amplitude from 0 to 8V Peak in a data entry window using the

arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Tone B Frequency

Adjusts the “B” variable tone generator frequency from 0 to 19999 Hz in a data entry window using the

arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Tone B Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off or Continuous selection the Tone B generator.

DTMF Level

Adjusts the DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-frequency) tone generator amplitude from 0 to 8V Peak in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry. DTMF is used for testing telephone interfaced systems.

DTMF Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off, Continuous, or Burst selection for the DTMF tone generator.

DTMF Code

Enters a DTMF Code sequence in a data entry window using the alphanumeric keypad. The Left/Right

(◄►) keys move the highlight to the desired field. The code is entered either of several ways. The

Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob cycles the highlighted field through the entire DTMF Code table.

Pressing the alphanumeric keypad allows direct numeric entry and alpha characters are entered by cycling through repeated presses of the appropriate numeric key.

DTMF Table

Activates soft keys and a table that provide more control when generating a DTMF Code sequence – see Figure 3.2.4.2-2. In addition to the DTMF Code data entry window there are selections permitting

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adjustment of the Tone Duration and Inter-digit Delay. A Single Digit mode also allows single key press tone generation similar to a telephone keypad.

Figure 3.2.4.2-2 DTMF Table providing additional code sequence control.

Microphone Mode

Enables or disables modulation from an external microphone attached to the Mic In port of the R8100. Note: Pressing the PTT button on the external microphone switches the R8100 into Generate mode. Modulation from the microphone is applied to the carrier when the mode is set to Continuous.

Microphone Level

Sets the modulation level for the external microphone attached to the R8100. The displayed units reflect the modulation mode chosen in the RF Zone, either deviation in kHz for FM or % modulation for AM.

High Pass Filter

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3 kHz. This setting is used in conjunction with the Low Pass Filter to determine the audio pass band for the R8100 baseband circuitry.

Low Pass Filter

Activates a horizontal submenu with audio filter selections that determine the low pass frequency for the R8100’s baseband response to recovered audio. The “cut-off” frequency selections are 300 Hz, 3 kHz, and 20 kHz. This setting is used in conjunction with the High Pass Filter to determine the audio pass band for the R8100 baseband circuitry.

Note: For best audio and measurement quality always set an audio pass band no wider than necessary for the signal of interest. Example: A typical 2-way radio audio pass band is 300 Hz to 3 kHz. Pass bands wider than necessary allow more noise in the measurement and degrade the audio quality and the readings for deviation, frequency error, SINAD, etc. The default settings for the R8100 High and Low Pass filters are 300 Hz and 3 kHz respectively.

2.2.3.3 Settings for PL, DPL, DPL Invert A/B Sequence, 5/6 Tone, POCSAG and General Sequence

Formats

The following settings appear in Audio Zone submenu pages when specific encoding formats are chosen in the Format horizontal menu - see Figure 3.2.4.2-1.

PL Table (displayed in Audio Zone submenu when synthesizer Format selected is PL)

Activates a selection table Motorola Private-Line tone coded squelch signaling and provides a listing of valid codes/frequencies – see Figure 3.2.4.3-1. The codes and associated frequencies are selected using the Up/Down (▲▼) and Left/Right (◄►) keys to scroll through the table and pressing Enter to complete the entry. Choosing a blank field removes PL coding from the Audio Sum. For valid codes see Table B3 in Appendix B.

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Figure 3.2.4.3-1 PL Table showing highlighted entry code.

DPL Code (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is DPL or DPL Invert)

Activates a data entry window to enter codes for the Motorola Digital Private-Line coded squelch signaling format. Code entries are made using the cursor control, numeric keypad, and spin knob. See Table B-5 in Appendix B for a selection table with a listing of valid DPL codes.

A/B Sequence (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is A/B Sequence)

This soft key brings up a horizontal menu to select one of 4 timing sequences for the two-tone sequential paging format. The sequences are programmed and appear in the A/B Sequence Table – see next setting.

A/B Sequence Table (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is A/B Sequence)

Activates a programming table for the two-tone sequential paging format – see Figure 3.2.4.3-2, The A/B Sequence encoding mode uses the Tone A and Tone B generators and one of four selectable timing sequences determined by the Sequence soft key. Sequences 1 and 2 utilize fixed timing for standard "tone" and "tone/voice" pagers, while sequences 3 and 4 may be customized through numeric entries by

the user. When the Up/Down (▲▼) keys highlight the programmable sequences (3 and 4) a new submenu

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appears as shown in Figure 3.2.4.3-3. The tone frequencies, durations and delays are entered using this submenu.

Figure 3.2.4.3-2 A/B Sequence table showing highlighted sequence.

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Figure 3.2.4.3-3 A/B Sequence table submenu for user programmable entries

5/6 Tone (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is 5/6 Tone)

Activates a data entry window and horizontal menu to enter tones for the 5/6 Tone paging format – See Figure 3.2.4.3-4. Tone entries are made using the cursor control, numeric keypad, and spin knob. See Table B-4 in Appendix B for a selection table with a listing of valid 5/6 Tone tones.

The first digit preceding the hyphen is the preamble tone for activating one of ten battery-saver groups. The R-Repeat key or “R” tone is used in place of a repeated digit – when this tone is heard it is assumed the prior digit is being transmitted again. If the digit is repeated a third time the original tone is transmitted.

A sixth or “X” tone is optional for pagers that support this function. The “X” tone indicates a different

beep pattern is used in place of that used for the standard 5 tone response. Pressing the 6-Tone soft key adds the “X” tone to the transmission.

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Figure 3.2.4.3-4 5/6 Tone entry submenu

POCSAG Message (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is POCSAG)

This soft key brings up a horizontal menu to select one of 8 transmission strings under the Numeric or Alphanumeric POCSAG formats. These include: Tone Only; Numeric number; Numeric set; Alphanumeric upper case; Alphanumeric lower case; Alphanumeric special character; Numeric custom; Alphanumeric custom.

POCSAG Table (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is POCSAG)

Activates a submenu with a programming table for the POCSAG (ITU-R M.584) digital paging format) – see Figure 3.2.4.3-5.

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Figure 3.2.4.3-5 POCSAG Table submenu

2.2.3.3.1 Settings in the POCSAG Table submenu

Synth Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu to select Off, Continuous, or Burst mode for the POCSAG synthesizer.

Capcode

Select the Capcode for the specific pager from 0 through 2097151 using arrow keys, keypad, or spin knob.

Function Bits

Activates a horizontal submenu for choosing the function bits indicating the type and format of the message data page (00; 01; 10; 11).POCSAG Message

Use the arrow keys or spin knob to select one of 8 transmission strings under the Numeric or Alphanumeric POCSAG formats. There are 6 factory set and 2 custom messages. Note: Anytime the POCSAG Table

submenu is displayed you can use the Up/Down (▲▼) keys to highlight the Msg/String table entries

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desired for the POCSAG Msg. Highlighting the NumericCust or AlphaNumCust selections allows editing of the respective custom Numeric or Alpha-numeric strings. Up to 16 characters may be entered. Entered NumericCust and AlphaNumCust strings are truncated or expanded to match Message Length.

Tone Only: <empty string> NumericNum: 0123456789 NumericSet: The used characters in the Numeric set. See Table B-7. AlphaNumUC: ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ AlphaNumLC: abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz AlphaNumSP: space!”#$%’()*+, -./:;<=>?@[\]^_`{|}~ NumericCust: Anything in the Numeric set. See Table B-7. AlphaNumCust: Anything in the Alpha-numeric set. See Table B-8

Message Length

Use the arrow keys, spin knob, or numeric pad to set the message length from 0 to 60 characters.

Data Rate

Use the arrow keys, spin knob, or numeric pad to set the communication data rate from 400 to 4800 bps.

Polarity

Activates a horizontal submenu for choosing the polarity of the POCSAG data stream, either Normal or Inverted. When set to Normal, a logic high (1) results in a more positive frequency deviation in FM mode. A logic low (0) results in a more negative frequency deviation in FM mode. When set to Inverted, a logic high (1) results in more negative frequency deviation in FM mode. A logic low (0) results in a more positive frequency deviation in FM mode.

Error Bit

Use the arrow keys, spin knob, or numeric pad to set the error bit at the specified location in the POCSAG page bit stream. The error bit allows targeted insertion of an error into the page to test a POCSAG decoder's error correction capability. The setting toggles the Error Bit bit in the POCSAG page bit stream, where the bit stream uses a 1-based index. If Error Bit is set to 0(default), no bits are toggled. If Error Bit is set >= 1, then bit stream[Error Bit] is toggled.

2.2.3.3.2 Settings in the General Sequence Table submenu

Code Sequence (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is General Sequence)

Activates a data entry window and horizontal menu for entering an audio tone sequence for encoding on either the RF carrier or Mod Out port. Each entry can be one of 20 Tone Codes (0 to 9 and A to J) with the frequency, duration, and post tone delay specified in the General Sequence Table. Tone entries are

made using the ▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄► (Left/Right) keys, numeric keypad, and spin knob. “Clear to

End” clears the highlighted entry and all others to the right.

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General Sequence Table (displayed when synthesizer Format selected is General Sequence)

Displays a programming table for the General Sequence encoder (see Figure 3.2.4.3-6. The table is populated with 20 Tone Codes (0 to 9 and A to J) with preset data for frequency, duration, and post-tone delay. The selected Tone Standard determines the preset data for each tone code. Regardless of the standard selected, each Tone Code can be edited by the operator for the current operating session or saved as a customized Sequence.

Figure 3.2.4.3-6 General Sequence Table submenu

Code Sequence (also appears in Audio Zone submenu)

Activates a data entry window and horizontal menu for entering a tone sequence. Each entry can be one of 20 Tone Codes (0 to 9 and A to J) with the frequency, duration, and post tone delay specified in the

General Sequence Table. The Tone Code entries are made using the ▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄►

(Left/Right) keys, numeric keypad, and spin knob. “Clear to End” clears the highlighted entry and all others to the right.

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Select Tone Standard

Choose which Tone Standard is used for the preset Tone Code entries on the General Sequence table. “None” populates the table with the factory default values shown in Figure 3.2.4.3-6. The remaining selections are SelCall (Selective Calling) tone standards: CCIR1; CCIR2; PCCIR; CCITT; EEA; EIA; Euro; NATEL; MODAT; ZVEI1; ZVEI2; ZVEI3; PZVEI; DVZEI; PDZVEI. Regardless of which standard is chosen, each Tone Code can be selected and edited by positioning the blue highlighting arrow

using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys, or spin knob. Edited tables can be saved as a user defined Sequence

Definition. Reselecting and entering any Tone Standard restores the original table entries.

Synth Mode (also appears in Audio Zone submenu)

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off, Continuous, or single Burst selection for the Synth generator transmitting the tone. The status of the Synth Mode is shown in the “Mode” field.

Tone Frequency

Activates a data entry window for customizing the Tone Frequency of the highlighted Tone Code.

Highlight a Tone Code to edit with the blue selection arrow using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys. The

adjustment range is from 0 to 20 kHz in 0.1 Hz steps.

Tone Duration

Activates a data entry window for customizing the Tone Duration of the highlighted Tone Code. Highlight

a Tone Code to edit with the blue selection arrow using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys. The adjustment range

is from 0 to 10 seconds in 0.001 second steps.

Post Tone Delay

Activates a data entry window for customizing the duration of the delay following the transmitted tone. Highlight a Tone Code to edit with the blue selection arrow using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys. The adjustment range is from 0 to 10 seconds in 0.01 second steps.

Save Sequence Definition

Activates a data entry window for entering a title and saving the user customized General Sequence Table. Alpha numeric entries are made using the ▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄► (Left/Right) keys, numeric keypad, and spin knob.

Load Sequence Definition

Choose a previously saved Sequence Definition in a selection window using the ▲▼ (Up/Down) keys

and spin knob, then press Enter.

Export Sequence Definition

Save a Sequence Definition stored on the R8100 to an external USB Flash Drive. Choose it in a selection window using the ▲▼ (Up/Down) keys or spin knob, then press Enter.

Delete Sequence Definition

Delete a Sequence Definition stored on the R8100. Choose it in a selection window using the ▲▼ (Up/Down) keys or spin knob, then press Enter.

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Sync to Code Entry

When set to “Yes” any Tone Code alphanumeric value entered into the Code Sequence field is initially

populated into the associated position in the Duration and Delay Sequence fields - Figure 3.2.4.3-6 shows an example of this. This matches the frequency, duration, and delay values for each tone in the Code Sequence to that shown on the Tone Code line entry in the table. If desired these initially synchronized Duration and Delay sequence entries can be changed to other values from the table. When set to “No” the entries for the Duration and Delay Sequences are set independently of the Code Sequence, with duration and delay values from any Tone Code on the table. Figure 3.2.4.3-6 shows an example of this.

Duration Sequence

Activates a data entry window and horizontal menu for entering a duration sequence. The duration value from any of the 20 Tone Codes (0 to 9 and A to J) specified in the General Sequence Table can be used.

The Tone Code entries are made using the ▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄► (Left/Right) keys, numeric keypad, and spin knob. “Clear to End” clears the highlighted entry and all others to the right. Each entry in the

Duration Sequence is paired in positional order with the associated entry in the Code Sequence, which provides the tone frequency, and the Delay Sequence, which provides the post tone delay. A duration of zero is used for Code Sequence entries that do not have an associated Duration Sequence entry. Duration Sequence entries that do not have an associated Code Sequence entry are ignored.

Delay Sequence

Activates a data entry window and horizontal menu for entering a post tone delay sequence. The delay value from any of the 20 Tone Codes (0 to 9 and A to J) specified in the General Sequence Table can be

used. The Tone Code entries are made using the ▲▼ (Up/Down), and ◄► (Left/Right) keys, numeric

keypad, and spin knob. “Clear to End” clears the highlighted entry and all others to the right. Each entry

in the Delay Sequence is paired in positional order with the associated entry in the Code Sequence, which provides the tone frequency, and the Duration Sequence, which provides the tone duration. A delay of zero is used for Code Sequence entries that do not have an associated Delay Sequence entry. Delay Sequence entries that do not have an associated Code Sequence entry are ignored.

2.2.3.4 Setting audio operating parameters in Generator mode

The audio settings in Generator mode replicate those in Monitor mode with two key differences. In Generator mode the audio signal is simultaneously applied as a modulation to the RF carrier and the Mod In/Out connector. Also, Mod Sum level is shown in units of FM deviation (kHz) or AM modulation depth (%), depending on the Modulation Type setting in the RF Zone. See Figure 3.2.4.4-1

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Figure 3.2.4.4-1 Audio Zone submenu in Generator mode

The additional submenu choices for the Audio Zone in Generate mode are as follows:

Mod Port Mode

This soft key determines the signal routing for the Mod In/Out port on the front panel. Choosing “In”

directs an externally applied signal to the modulation circuitry of the R8100. When switched to “Out”, internally generated audio modulation is routed to the Mod In/Out port for use by an external radio or

instrument. Note: Remove voltage sources before selecting “Out”. If input voltage is detected at the port

the “Out” selection is ignored and an alert is displayed at the bottom of the display.

Mod In Port Level

Sets the modulation level for the external signal applied to the Mod In/Out port on the R8100. The displayed units reflect the modulation mode chosen in the RF Zone, either deviation in kHz for FM, or % modulation for AM. Note: The audio signals must equal +/- 1Vpk to provide a reference for accurate display of the applied modulation level.

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CAUTION

Do not exceed +/- 1.5 V

on the Mod In/Out port or damage may occur to internal circuitry.

Mod In Port Mode

Activates a horizontal submenu with an Off or Continuous selection for the external signal applied to the Mod In/Out port on the front panel.

2.2.3.5 Setting audio operating parameters in Duplex mode

The audio settings in Duplex mode replicate those in Generate mode - see section 3.2.4.4.

2.2.4 Display Zone

The R8100 has several graphical displays providing a visual presentation of received RF signal measurements, recovered audio, internally generated audio, and externally measured audio signals. These include a Spectrum Analyzer, Modulation Scope, and Oscilloscope, along with Bar Graphs for RF signal deviation, frequency error and input level. The displays are accessed from the main menu with the Display Zone soft key – see Figure 3.2.5-1. Note: General Sequence appears as a display choice if General Sequence is enabled in the Meter Zone.

The vertical submenu selections below the “Select Display” soft key change depending on the chosen

display - in this case the Spectrum Analyzer is highlighted in blue on the “Select Display” horizontal menu. The vertical soft key menu now has several pages of Spectrum Analyzer settings including Center Frequency, Span, Start and Stop frequencies, etc.

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Figure 3.2.5-1 Display Zone submenu after Select Display soft key press

The following sections detail the submenu and soft key selections for the graphical displays on the R8100 analyzer.

2.2.4.1 Spectrum Analyzer settings

Access the Spectrum Analyzer using the Select Display soft key to bring up the horizontal submenu display choices. The available adjustments are as follows:

Center Frequency

Sets the center frequency from 250 kHz to 3 GHz for the Spectrum Analyzer in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Span

Sets the total frequency window displayed on the Spectrum Analyzer in MHz. The Span entry total is automatically split evenly on each side of the current center frequency. Note: Receiver demodulated audio

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is inhibited at spans above 158 kHz. Switch display to Mod Scope or use Demod at Marker function to hear audio at wider spans.

Start Frequency

Sets the display start frequency in MHz. Use with the Stop Frequency to establish a desired frequency range for the Spectrum Analyzer display. The R8100 automatically centers the frequency display midway between Start and Stop frequencies.

Stop Frequency

Sets the display stop frequency in MHz. Use with the Start Frequency to establish a desired frequency range for the Spectrum Analyzer display. The R8100 automatically centers the frequency display midway between Start and Stop frequencies

Reference Level

Adjusts the maximum level for the vertical scale of the display (top line) from -120 dBm to +60 dBm in 1 dB increments.

Vertical Scale

Selects the vertical scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines from 1 dB/div to 10 dB/div via a

horizontal soft key list.

Display Mode

Selects the display presentation with the following horizontal menu choices: Normal – The display updates continuously. Freeze – Provides a snapshot of the current display indication and stops additional updates. Note: In

Freeze mode the R8100 reacquires data and updates the display whenever “Center Marker” or “Center Peak” is pressed.

Max Hold – The display retains the highest peak signal amplitudes measured during successive sweeps. Average – The displayed signal amplitudes are a rolling average of the peak amplitudes measured on each

successive sweep. The average consists of 1 to 5 sweeps, shown beside the mode indication.

Trace Math

Selects an equation to use for the computation of the spectrum trace (white) from the Display Mode trace and reference trace (cyan). Setting Display Mode to Average minimizes effects of a low level / high variance signal such as the noise floor. Note: The underlying units of the result are no longer dBm but dB for the displayed spectrum and thus marker power.

The following are horizontal menu choices. None – Hides the reference trace and displays the spectrum resulting from the Display Mode unmodified. Spec-Ref (log) – Displays the difference of the Display Mode spectrum in dBm minus the reference trace

in dBm, which normalizes the spectrum to 0 on the Y-axis. Subsequently, spectrum power is shown on the display and measured by absolute markers relative to the reference trace, i.e. correctly interpreted as dBm above the reference.

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|Spec-Ref| (lin) – Displays the logarithm of the absolute value of the difference of the Display Mode spectrum in volts² minus the reference trace in volts². Note: Although the absolute value of the difference avoids logarithm of negatives, it has the side-effect of increasing the apparent noise power.

Spec+Ref (lin) – Displays the logarithm of the sum of the Display Mode spectrum in volts² plus the reference trace in volts².

Figure 2.2.4.1-1 Trace Math Display

Set Reference Trace

Copies the current spectrum trace (white) and shows it in a static trace (cyan) behind the spectrum trace. The trace is copied from what is currently shown, which is after any Display Mode processing as well as Trace Math computations. Therefore, ensure that both of those settings are set appropriately (i.e. Trace Math is None); setting the reference when Trace Math is active may yeild incoherent results. Setting Display Mode to Average minimizes effects of a low level / high variance signal such as the noise floor. This static trace is used for computations when a Trace Math equation is specified; and may simply be viewed even when one is not. It can be hidden by selecting Trace Math None. Note: System changes that may invalidate the reference trace include port, amplification, attenuation, frequency, span, temperature, and calibration.

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3 dB Marker

Selects the 3 dB marker with the following horizontal menu choices: Off – Function is off Frequency – Places a marker above and below center frequency where the signal is -3 dB below the peak

amplitude measured at center frequency. The upper and lower frequencies are shown on the display. Delta – Places a marker above and below center frequency where the signal is -3 dB below the peak

amplitude measured at center frequency. The difference between these two frequencies is shown on the display.

Marker Mode

Provides display marker control via a horizontal soft key menu. Markers can be turned off or on with a

choice of numeric readout for the signal measurements. “Absolute” provides actual peak readings while

“Delta” measures the relative difference of both power and frequency between the markers. Note:

Depending on the installed options up to 4 markers can be enabled and selected for positioning while in Instrument Mode.

Find Peak

Moves the cursor to the highest signal peak in the display window and provides a numeric readout of the amplitude and frequency.

Toggle Marker

Cycles through the available markers to select the active one (yellow) for positional adjustment on the display. The active marker is moved using the Left/Right (◄►) cursor control buttons.

Center Marker

Centers the operating frequency and display of the R8100 Spectrum Analyzer around the frequency of the active marker.

Center Peak

Centers the operating frequency and display of the R8100 Spectrum Analyzer around the highest peak signal within the display range.

Demod At Marker

When the Marker Mode is Absolute, this function demodulates the carrier and provides audio for the signal at the marker location with the following horizontal menu choices (see Figure 2.2.4.1-2):

Off – Function is off. Single – Provides a one-time demodulation of the carrier signal located at the marker position for a quick

listen at the marker frequency. Moving the marker or changing the monitor frequency, mode, or Display Zone selection switches the Demod At Marker function Off.

Continuous – Continuous mode allows users to move the selected marker to demodulate carriers across the entire displayed spectrum. On full-screen instruments, the user can setup several markers on various

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peaks and use the marker selection to quickly demodulate and listen to those peaks. Additionally, on the Dual Display, the user can simultaneously also view the demodulation scope while tuning the marker positions.

Note: To ensure audio is demodulated, the marker must be close enough to overlap the R8100 Monitor Bandwidth around the carrier frequency. Large Span settings increase marker frequency step size, limiting how close the marker can get to the actual frequency. To minimize step size use the narrowest span practical when displaying multiple carriers.

Figure 2.2.4.1-2 Demod At Marker submenu

2.2.4.2 Modulation Scope settings

The Modulation Scope displays the internally-processed RF modulation waveforms. It automatically switches between Generator and Monitor modulation depending on which mode is selected. In Duplex mode an additional soft key allows manual selection of the Monitor or Generator modulation waveform.

Access the Modulation Scope using the Select Display soft key to bring up the horizontal submenu display choices. The available adjustments are as follows:

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Figure 2.2.4.2-1 Display Zone submenu for the Mod Scope

Vertical Scale

Selects the vertical scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines via a horizontal submenu. The

display units presented are dependent on the R8100’s modulation setting in the RF Zone. For FM mode the units are in Hz and kHz deviation, ranging from 100 Hz/div to 50 kHz/div. In AM mode the units are in % modulation depth and range from 1%/div to 50%/div.

Horizontal Scale

Selects the horizontal time scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines in a dialog entry box using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob. The units range from 20 uS/div to 1 sec/div.

Marker Mode

Provides display marker control via a horizontal soft key menu. Markers can be turned off or on with a choice of numeric readout for the signal measurements as follows:

Delta V – The numeric reading shows the difference in amplitude between marker positions. Delta T – The numeric reading shows the difference in time between marker positions.

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1/DeltaT – The numeric reading shows the inverse of the time difference between markers which can be used to determine the frequency of a repetitive waveform.

Toggle Marker

Cycles through the available markers to select the active one (yellow) for positional adjustment on the display. The active marker is moved using the Left/Right (◄►) cursor control buttons.

Trigger Mode

Selects the trigger mode for the horizontal sweep via a submenu. The choices are as follows: Auto – If a signal satisfying the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings is present the display will sweep

as in Normal mode. If no signal satisfying the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings is present then the display sweeps continuously until a signal satisfying the settings is acquired.

Normal – The display sweeps only when the input signal satisfies the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings.

Single – The display sweeps once after a key press is performed on the Single soft key if the signal satisfies the Trigger Edge and Trigger level settings.

Trigger Level

Adjusts the signal threshold at which a horizontal sweep is initiated. The soft key activates a numeric

entry box and the Left/Right (◄►) keys move the highlight over the desired number field. Numeric

changes are entered directly using the keypad, or in steps with the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Trigger Position

Adjusts the amount of pre-trigger waveform displayed on the screen via selections on a horizontal submenu. The choices are 10%, 50%, or 90% of the display allocated to the waveform preceding the trigger threshold.

Trigger Edge

Determines which waveform edge is used to trigger the modulation scope sweep via selections on a horizontal submenu. The selections are Rising, Falling, or Either.

Scope Mode

Selection of the Monitor or Generator modulation waveform in Duplex mode.

Vertical Position

Adjusts the vertical position of the waveform on the display using a horizontal submenu. Pressing the Move Up and Move Down soft keys shifts the waveform position by fixed increments.

2.2.4.3 Oscilloscope settings

The R8100 analyzer provides a general purpose oscilloscope with calibrated vertical input sensitivities and automatic or triggered horizontal sweep rates. Use the scope to analyze waveforms, detect asymmetric modulation or audio distortion, trace signals, and troubleshoot subsystems or circuits. The Meter In port serves as the vertical input for the Oscilloscope.

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Access the external Oscilloscope using the Select Display soft key to bring up the horizontal submenu display choices shown in Figure 3.2.5.3-1. The available adjustments are as follows:

Figure 3.2.5.3-1 Display Zone submenu for the Oscilloscope

Coupling

Selects the input coupling for the external signal applied to the Meter In port with a user entry window.

Choose DC or AC coupling by pressing the Coupling soft key, the Up/Down (▲▼) keys, or rotating the

spin knob.

Vertical Scale

Selects the vertical scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines with a user entry window. The

available selections range from 10 mV/div to 25 V/div and can be changed by pressing the Vertical Scale soft key, the Up/Down cursor keys (▲▼), or rotating the spin knob.

Horizontal Scale

Selects the horizontal time scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines in a dialog entry box using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob. The units range from 20 uS/div to 1 sec/div.

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Note: Digital oscilloscopes are susceptible to aliasing which can cause inaccurate signal reconstruction.

Horizontal

Scale

Maximum

Signal

Frequency

Maximum

Recommended

Signal Frequency

20 us

50000

50 us

50000

20000

100 us

50000

10000

200 us

25000

5000

500 us

10000

2000

1 ms

5000

1000

2 ms

2500

500

5 ms

1000

200

10 ms

500

100

20 ms

250

50 ms

100

100 ms

200 ms

Hz 5 Hz

500 ms

Hz 2 Hz

1 s 5 Hz 1 Hz

The Maximum Recommended Input frequency for each horizontal scale setting is shown in the display area. For best results follow the guidelines shown in the table below:

Marker Mode

Provides display marker control with a horizontal soft key menu. Markers can be turned off or on with a choice of numeric readout for the signal measurements as follows:

Delta V – The numeric reading shows the difference in amplitude between marker positions. Delta T – The numeric reading shows the difference in time between marker positions. 1/DeltaT – The numeric reading shows the inverse of the time difference between markers which can be

used to determine the frequency of a repetitive waveform. Absolute – The numeric reading shows the absolute amplitude at the marker position

Toggle Marker

Cycles through the available markers to select the active one (yellow) for positional adjustment on the display. The active marker is moved with the Left/Right (◄►) keys

Trigger Mode

Submenu selections for the horizontal sweep trigger mode. The choices are as follows:

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Auto – If a signal satisfying the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings is present the display will sweep as in Normal mode. If no signal satisfying the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings is present then the display sweeps continuously until a signal satisfying the settings is acquired.

Normal – The display sweeps only when the input signal satisfies the Trigger Edge and Trigger Level settings.

Single – The display sweeps once after a key press is performed on the Single soft key. Freeze – The display sweeps stop, allowing further analysis of the captured input signal.

Trigger Level

Adjusts the signal threshold at which a horizontal sweep is initiated. The soft key activates a numeric

entry box and the Left/Right (◄►) keys move the highlight over the desired number field. Numeric

changes are entered directly with the keypad, or in steps using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Trigger Position

Submenu selections for the amount of pre-trigger waveform displayed on the screen. The choices are 10%, 50%, or 90% of the display allocated to the waveform preceding the trigger threshold.

Trigger Edge

Submenu for choosing which waveform edge triggers the modulation scope sweep. The selections are Rising, Falling, or Either.

Vertical Position

Adjusts the vertical position of the waveform on the display using a horizontal submenu. Pressing the Move Up and Move Down soft keys shifts the waveform position by fixed increments.

Set DC Offset

Pressing this soft key zeros or compensates for any accumulated DC offset caused by drift in the input amplifier of the R8100 over long periods of time. This may show up as a DC level indicated on the Oscilloscope and DC Voltmeter when no input is connected to the Meter In port. With the Meter In port disconnected press the soft key to eliminate the offset. The compensation is stored permanently in the R8100 until the next time this soft key is pressed.

2.2.4.4 Bar Graphs settings

The R8100 Bar Graph display provides a simultaneous analog and digital readout of critical signal characteristics. The analog display facilitates real time tuning adjustments of 2-way radios while the digital reading provides precision in the measured result. Access the Bar Graphs using the Select Display soft key to bring up the horizontal submenu display choices. Three bar graphs are displayed for the received carrier while in Monitor mode (see Figure 3.2.5.4-1):

Monitor Deviation

Displays the negative and positive peak frequency deviation of a modulated carrier (i.e. from the Frequency Error mean), available when Modulation mode is FM.

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Monitor AM%

Displays the negative and positive peak AM percentages of a modulated carrier, available when Modulation mode is AM.

Frequency Error

Shows the frequency difference (error) of the input carrier minus the programmed frequency of the R8100 (i.e. Monitor Frequency).

Input Level

Input Lvl displays the RF input level of the carrier. Indicated units are Volts, Watts or dBm as set with “Input Level Units” soft key in the RF Zone.

Note: When the RF input power on the RF In/Out port is above +20 dBm (100 mW), the R8100 utilizes a

broadband power detector for the measurement. The “Input Lvl” field in the RF Zone changes to “Watt

Meter” to indicate this measurement mode.

Figure 3.2.5.4-1 Bar Graphs screen in Display Zone

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Deviation Average

The Bar Graph display can be adjusted to smooth the response using horizontal submenu selections activated with the Deviation Average soft key on the vertical menu. The Deviation Average settings are:

Normal – No smoothing is engaged, which provides the quickest measurement response. Peak Average – The deviation peaks are averaged over a time window which smoothes the reading but

slows the response. Pwr-Weight Average – The deviation measurement is processed with an RMS converter, but the display

calibration remains in peak units – i.e. a deviation of 3 kHz pk will read 3 kHz on the numeric readout and bar graph. This type of processing significantly reduces the effect of narrow deviation spikes and noise while providing a speed of response similar to the normal mode. Note: Scale calibration and the peak readings are only valid for single tone repetitive sine wave modulation. For the RMS value of any modulation waveform divide the displayed peak reading by 1.414.

RMS Average – The deviation measurement is the square root of the mean of the squares of the deviation values. This type of processing significantly reduces the effect of narrow deviation spikes and noise while providing a speed of response similar to the normal mode. Note: Scale calibration and the RMS readings are valid for any wave modulation (e.g. sawtooth).

2.2.4.5 General Sequence settings (appears when General Sequence is selected in Meter Zone)

Decode to Standard

Choose which SelCall (Selective Calling) tone standard is used to display the code symbols associated

with the frequency and duration of decoded sequential audio tone bursts. Select using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or rotating the spin knob, then press Enter. If “None” is selected the decoder assigns sequential codes

1 through 20 for each successive tone. Otherwise the codes are matched to the frequencies decoded per the following standards: CCIR1; CCIR2; PCCIR; CCITT; EEA; EIA; Euro; NATEL; MODAT; ZVEI1; ZVEI2; ZVEI3; PZVEI; DVZEI; PDZVEI (see Figure 3.2.5.5-1). Note: For correct operation, input tones should have a duration of 0.5 seconds or less.

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Figure 3.2.5.5-1 General Seq screen in Display Zone

2.2.5 Meter Zone

The R8100 has several metering functions consisting of general purpose and specialized instruments providing detailed analysis of the recovered baseband content from RF signals. They are accessed from the main menu with the Meter Zone soft key and displayed in a dedicated area on the main screen below the Display Zone – see Figure 3.2.6-1 which shows the RF Scan meter.

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Figure 3.2.6-1 Meter Zone submenu showing RF Scan meter

Pressing the Select Meter soft key displays the available metering functions on a horizontal submenu (see Figure 3.2.6-2). They include Power Meter, Voltmeter, SINAD/Distortion, Decoder, Frequency Counter, and RF Scan.

Figure 3.2.6-2 Meter Zone submenu after Select Meter soft key press

2.2.5.1 Power Meter

Provides a bar graph display and numeric readout in Watts of the broadband input power applied to the RF In/Out port (Figure 2.2.5.1-1). Note: For best accuracy disable the Pre-amplifier in Monitor Mode, and set the Gen Port in Generate Mode to RF In/Out.

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Figure 2.2.5.1-1 RF Power Meter screen

2.2.5.2 Voltmeter

Provides an AC and DC voltmeter mode for measuring the amplitude of electrical voltages at the Meter In port with the following menu selections:

Select Voltmeter Mode

Choose AC Volts or DC Volts on a horizontal menu AC Volts – Measures AC voltage applied to the Meter In port. The dBm computation assumes an

impedance of 600 Ohms. The full scale AC Range is selectable via a horizontal submenu.

Figure 2.2.5.2-1 AC Volts display

DC Volts – Measures DC voltage applied to the Meter In port. The full scale DC Range is selectable via a horizontal submenu. Note: If there is a DC offset apparent with no input connected it can be zeroed out by using the Set DC Offset function.

Note: Pressing Display Zone, Oscilloscope, Set DC Offset soft key zeros or compensates for any accumulated DC offset caused by drift in the input amplifier of the R8100 over long periods of time. This may show up as a DC level indicated on the Oscilloscope and DC Voltmeter when no input is connected to the Meter In port. With the Meter In port disconnected press the soft key to eliminate the offset. The compensation is stored permanently in the R8100 until the next time this soft key is pressed.

Figure 2.2.5.2-2 DC Volts display

AC Range

Available when Select Voltmeter Mode is AC Volts. Choices include Auto (auto-ranging), 1 Volt, 10 Volts, and 70 Volts RMS. Note: The range on AC and DC must be 1 or 10 Volts to use 600 Ohm Input Impedance (see System Settings).

Set dBr Reference

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Available when Select Voltmeter Mode is AC Volts and a reference input voltage is not set. When selected, dBm measurements are frozen and a dBr indicator appears. The dBr indicates the normalized measurement between the reference input voltage and the current input voltage.

Clear dBr Reference

Available when Select Voltmeter Mode is AC Volts and a reference input voltage is set. When selected, dBm measurements are resumed and the dBr indicator disappears.

DC Range

Available when Select Voltmeter Mode is DC Volts. Choices include Auto (auto-ranging), 1 Volt, 10 Volts, 100 Volts and the Battery voltage when that upcoming option is installed. Note: The range on AC and DC must be 1 or 10 Volts to use 600 Ohm Input Impedance (see System Settings).

2.2.5.3 SINAD/Distortion

Provides Signal in Noise and Distortion (SINAD) and audio distortion measurements for a radio under test – see Figure 2.2.5.3-1.

Figure 2.2.5.3-1 SINAD display

Select Audio Measurement

Choose SINAD/Ext Distortion or Internal Distortion on a horizontal menu. SINAD/Ext Distortion – Provides a SINAD and External Distortion measurement of the recovered audio

signal applied to the Meter In port from an external radio (Figure 2.2.5.3-1). The test is performed using a 1 kHz modulated RF carrier applied to the radio’s antenna port by the R8100. The RF level is adjusted in the RF Zone while monitoring the SINAD meter to determine the receiver sensitivity per EIA (12 dB yellow tick mark) and other standards (See SINAD Measurement).

Internal Distortion – Measures the distortion in percent of the internally recovered audio from a transmitter modulated with a 1 kHz sine wave when the R8100 is in Monitor mode (Figure 2.2.5.3-2).

Figure 2.2.5.3-2 Internal Distortion display

2.2.5.4 Decoder

This is the entry point for the suite of tone decoding functions on the R8100

Select Decoder Type

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Choose from the available decoding functions on a horizontal menu. These include PL/Period Counter, DPL Decode, DTMF Decode, 2-Tone Decode, 5/6 Decode, and General Sequence.

PL/Period Counter – Displays the frequency and numeric code of the recovered audio from a radio modulated with the Motorola Private-Line (PL) format (Figure 2.2.5.4-1). The period counter allows rapid high resolution measurements of non-PL low frequency modulation without the long gate times associated with frequency counting. A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements. Recommended filter settings for PL: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 300 Hz.

Figure 2.2.5.4-1 PL/Period Counter screen

DPL Decode – Provides a numeric code readout from the recovered audio of a radio modulated with the Motorola Digital Private-Line (DPL) format (Figure 2.2.5.4-2). A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements. Recommended filter settings for DPL: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 3 kHz.

Figure 2.2.5.4-2 DPL Decode screen

DTMF Decode – Decodes DTMF (Dual Tone Multi Frequency) signals used in testing telephone interfaced systems (Figure 2.2.5.4-3). A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements. Recommended filter settings for DTMF: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 3 kHz. Note: The R8100 displays the history of previously decoded DTMF codes, with the right-most code digit being replaced by the most recently decoded tone. The DTMF Code field appears static when the transmitted code isn’t changing or nothing is being decoded. Press the Reset soft key to clear the history.

Figure 2.2.5.4-3 DTMF Decode screen

2-Tone Decode – Decodes the two-tone sequential paging format. The meter displays the Tone A/Tone B (Tone 1 and Tone 2) frequencies and durations (Figure 2.2.5.4-4). A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements. The Decode soft key is used to start or stop decoding. Recommended filter settings for 2-Tone decode: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 3 kHz.

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Figure 2.2.5.4-4 2-Tone Decode screen

5/6 Tone Decode – Decodes the 5/6 tone sequential paging format (Figure 2.2.5.4-5). The meter displays a table with the decoded cap code along with the individual tone frequencies and durations. A vertical submenu allows selection of the meter sensitivity from MIN to MAX via the spin knob, Up/Down (▲▼) keys, or repeated presses of the Sensitivity soft key. A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements. Recommended filter settings for 5/6 Tone: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 3 kHz.

Figure 2.2.5.4-5 5/6-Tone Decode screen

General Sequence – Decodes the individual frequency and time duration for each of up to 20 tones in a tone sequence. This function overwrites the entire Display Zone section of the main screen and provides a detailed display of data (Figure 2.2.5.4-6). A vertical submenu provides adjustment of the Low and High Pass filters to reduce noise for more accurate measurements, an Input Decoding selection key to select internal or external decoding, a Decode key with start and stop settings to control the decode function, and a selection window to choose the SelCall standard (or none) used for decoding.

When a standard is selected the decoded tones are mapped to the selected standard and the Tone Code is listed with each tone in the table. When no standard is selected the decoded tones are listed in numerical order. The recommended filter settings on the R8100 are: HP= 1 Hz; LP = 3 kHz. Note: For correct operation input tones should have a duration of 0.5 seconds or less.

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Figure 2.2.5.4-6 General Sequence decode screen

High Pass Filter

Activates a horizontal submenu with audio filter selections that determine the high pass frequency for the R8100’s baseband response to recovered audio. The “cut-on” frequency selections are 5 Hz, 300 Hz, and 3 kHz. This setting is used in conjunction with the Low Pass Filter to determine the audio pass band for the R8100 baseband circuitry.

Low Pass Filter

Input Decoding

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Selects the signal source used for the R8100 frequency counter and decode functions. When set to Internal the recovered audio or tones from a demodulated received signal are used as the signal source. The External setting directs an externally applied signal at the Meter In port to the R8100 frequency counter and decode circuits.

2.2.5.5 Frequency Counter

In Monitor mode, this soft key enables a general-purpose frequency counter for the recovered baseband audio or IF frequency displayed in the modulation scope (Figure 2.2.5.5-1 Frequency Counter screen). In Generator mode the counter measures the frequency of the internal or external modulation applied to the RF carrier. In External Scope mode the counter measures the frequency of signals applied to the Meter In port.

Input Decoding

Resolution

Activates a horizontal submenu with selections for the counter resolution. The settings include 0.1 Hz,

1.0 Hz, and 10 Hz resolution.

Figure 2.2.5.5-1 Frequency Counter screen

2.2.5.6 RF Scan

Searches for the strongest RF signal that is above the “Squelch Opens @” setting on the active RF input

port. The R8100 locks onto and automatically centers its operating frequency on this carrier (Figure

2.2.5.6-1). The search frequency range in MHz is entered using Start Frequency and Stop Frequency soft

keys. Scanning begins once the Scan, Start soft keys are selected. Scanning can be manually stopped by selecting the Scan, Stop soft keys. The meter graph displays an automatically-scaled spectrum of the entire scan range. Once a signal is acquired the RF Scan meter stays locked on that frequency even if the carrier disappears. It resumes scanning once the Scan, Start soft keys are selected. The RF Scan meter operates only when it is highlighted; otherwise it becomes inactive.

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Figure 2.2.5.6-1 RF Scan display

2.2.6 Instrument Menu

The Instrument menu provides several of the measurement functions on the R8100 in a dedicated full screen display. This makes it easier to view smaller waveform details and provide more numeric fields with instrument specific data. Figure 3.2.7-1 shows the submenu after pressing the Instrument navigation button. The vertical soft key submenu lists the instruments available in a full screen display. While the Spectrum Analyzer, Modulation Scope, and Oscilloscope displays are available elsewhere on the R8100, the size is limited in those areas since they are shared with other measuring functions The optional Dual Display, Tracking Generator, and Cable Fault Locator functions are full screen instruments and only available from the Instrument menu. For convenience the other meters on the R8100 such as RF Scan, AC Volts, etc can also be directly accessed in Instrument menu.

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Figure 3.2.7-1 Submenu after pressing Instrument navigation key

The sub-menus, control, and settings for the full screen instruments duplicate those of the limited screen versions in the Display Zone. When applicable, additional soft keys appear to exploit the extra display area.

2.2.6.1 Full-screen Spectrum Analyzer mode

With the Enhanced Spectrum Analyzer option, 4 markers and associated data can be displayed in the Spectrum Analyzer Instrument mode as shown in Figure 2.2.6.1-1. A “Select Marker” soft key allows selection of each marker for movement across the screen. Note: For an R8100 without the Enhanced

Spectrum Analyzer option, the Toggle Marker soft key activates the 2 available markers.

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Figure 2.2.6.1-1 Submenu in Spectrum Analyzer Instrument mode

2.2.6.2 Dual Display mode

The optional Dual Display mode provides a convenient one screen presentation of two instruments often used together, the Spectrum Analyzer and Modulation Scope. This gives a user control and a simultaneous view of the results from both measurement functions. Figure 2.2.6.2-1 shows the R8100 screen after pressing the Dual Display soft key.

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Figure 2.2.6.2-1 Dual Display mode

In Dual Display mode the submenus, control, and parameter entry are unchanged from the full screen versions of the Spectrum Analyzer and Modulation Scope.

Gen Port

Selects the active port (RF In/Out or Gen Out) for the swept R8100 tracking generator output in a selection table using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Gen Port label is cyan-colored indicating that Output Level amplitudes are adjusted by the Gen Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

Monitor Port

Selects the port monitored by the Spectrum Analyzer as either the ANTENNA or the RF In/Out front panel connector. Choose in a list entry window using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

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Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Mon Port label is cyan-colored indicating that RX measurements are adjusted by the Mon Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

2.2.6.3 Tracking Generator mode

The optional Tracking Generator function sets up the R8100 RF generator in a sweeping mode for simultaneous use with the spectrum analyzer display. This delivers a valuable capability for measuring and servicing a wide variety of RF filtering and combining networks. Pressing the Tracking Generator key provides the full screen display shown in Figure 2.2.6.3-1. Note: Enabling the Tracking Generator

suspends the Standard zone operation of the R8100 (e.g. RF Zone, Audio Zone, etc.). To restore Standard zone operation, press the appropriate mode key such as Monitor, Generate, Duplex, etc.

Figure 2.2.6.3-1 Tracking Generator mode

The Tracking Generator settings are similar to those used when operating the RF Generator and Spectrum Analyzer independently. An exception is the frequency setting which is common to both, since the Spectrum analyzer is lock stepped to and tracks the swept RF Generator. Get pic of a filter

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Center Frequency

Sets the tracking generator center frequency from 250 kHz to 3 GHz in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

Span

Sets the total frequency window for tracking generator operation in MHz. The Span entry total is automatically split on each side of the current center frequency.

Start Frequency

Sets the tracking generator start frequency in MHz. Use with the Stop Frequency to establish a desired frequency range for tracking generator operation. The R8100 automatically centers the frequency display midway between Start and Stop frequencies.

Stop Frequency

Sets the tracking generator stop frequency in MHz. Use with the Start Frequency to establish a desired frequency range for tracking generator operation. The R8100 automatically centers the frequency display midway between Start and Stop frequencies.

Vertical Scale

Selects the vertical scale resolution for the display’s major grid lines from 1 dB/div to 10 dB/div via a

horizontal soft key menu.

Reference Level

Adjusts the maximum level (top line) for the vertical scale of the Spectrum Analyzer in Tracking Generator mode from -120 dBm to + 60 dBm in 1 dB increments.

# of Points

Adjusts the number of data points acquired and displayed. Higher settings increase the trace resolution for viewing signal detail but also slow the update rate.

Display Mode

Freeze mode the R8100 reacquires data and updates the display whenever “Center Marker” or “Center Peak” is pressed.

successive sweep. The average consists of 1 to 5 sweeps, shown beside the mode indication.

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Marker Mode

Provides display marker control via a horizontal soft key menu. Markers can be turned off or on with a choice of numeric readout for the signal measurements.

Absolute – Displays the frequency and absolute signal amplitude for each marker selected (total of 4). Delta – Displays the frequency and amplitude difference between each pair of markers selected (1-2 & 3-

4).

Marker Type

Sets the display marker type in a horizontal menu with selections including point cross, vertical bar, horizontal bar, and full cross.

Select Marker

Selects 1 of 4 available markers on a horizontal submenu for position adjustment on the display.

Set Marker Frequency

Directly sets the frequency of the selected marker in MHz via a data entry window.

Center Marker

Centers the operating frequency and display of the R8100 Spectrum Analyzer around the frequency of the active marker.

Find Peak

Moves the cursor to the highest signal reading in the display window and provides a numeric readout of the amplitude and frequency

Find Valley

Moves the cursor to the lowest signal reading in the display window and provides a numeric readout of the amplitude and frequency

3 dB Marker

Frequency – Places a marker above and below center frequency where the signal is -3 dB below the peak amplitude measured at center frequency. The upper and lower frequencies are shown on the display.

Delta – Places a marker above and below center frequency where the signal is -3 dB below the peak amplitude measured at center frequency. The difference between these two frequencies is shown on the display.

Output Level

Adjusts the RF level of the tracking generator output at the active output port. From -95 dBm to 5 dBm on the RF Gen Out port and -130 dBm to -30 dBm on the RF In/Out port.

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Attenuation

Input Port

Maximum input level for using pre-amplifier

Antenna

(Input signal in dBm – Attenuator setting) is equal or less than -40 dBm

RF In/Out

(Input signal in dBm – Attenuator setting) is equal or less than -10 dBm

Adjusts the Monitor Port RF input signal attenuation in 2 dB steps from 0 to 62 dB. Select in a list entry window using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Pre-Amplifier

Enables a supplementary input amplifier that extends the sensitivity of the RF Monitor by improving the S/N ratio for low signal levels. Note: To avoid input overload and erroneous signal strength readings use the pre-amplifier only under the following conditions:

Gen Port

Selects the active port (RF In/Out or Gen Out) for the swept R8100 tracking generator output in a selection table using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Gen Port label is cyan-colored indicating that Output Level amplitudes are adjusted by the Gen Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

Monitor Port

Selects the port monitored by the Spectrum Analyzer as either the ANTENNA or the RF In/Out front panel connector. Choose in a list entry window using the Up/Down (▲▼) keys or spin knob.

Note: If RF Level Offset is enabled, the Mon Port label is cyan-colored indicating that RX measurements are adjusted by the Mon Port-specific offset. See section 2.2.8.2 for details.

Normalize

Creates a baseline for measuring system under test response by zeroing out the Spectrum Analyzer trace. When enabled, a visual indicator appears and the trace color changes similar to Figure 2.2.6.3-2. To reset the baseline after changing any Tracking Generator parameters, select Off and then On again.

Figure 2.2.6.3-2 Normalized Spectrum Analyzer trace

2.2.6.4 Cable Fault Locator mode

The optional Cable Fault Locator mode uses the R8100 Tracking Generator along with FFT analysis to determine distance to a fault or termination mismatch in RF cables. Pressing the Cable Fault Locator soft key provides the full screen display shown in Figure 2.2.6.4-1. The Cable Fault Locator is used with an optional directional coupler or splitter. Note: Enabling the Cable Fault Locator mode suspends the

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Standard zone operation of the R8100 (e.g. RF Zone, Audio Zone, etc.). To restore Standard zone operation press an associated mode key such as Monitor, Generate, Duplex, etc. NewPic

Figure 2.2.6.4-1 Cable Fault Locator mode

The Cable Fault Locator has settings for entering cable parameters and display specifics. Several standard cable selections provide predetermined settings. A user can also enter specific data for a cable under test and save these settings for future use. See Cable Fault Testing

Cable Type

Choose from factory provided or user saved cable selections. This automatically populates the Cable Loss and Velocity Factor. If No Selection is chosen the user should enter the specific data for the cable under test.

Center Frequency

Sets the Cable Fault Locator center frequency from 250 kHz to 1 GHz in a data entry window using the arrow keys, keypad, or tuning knob. Pressing Enter completes the change and Esc cancels the entry.

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Maximum Length

Sets the maximum cable length in a data entry window so that the R8100 can optimize the RF parameters and FFT calculations. The entry units are determined by the setting in the Distance Units submenu.

Analyze

Determines the Cable Fault Locator operating mode with a horizontal soft key menu. Off – The Cable Fault Locator is disabled to allow parameter entry. Continuous – The display provides continuous measurement updates. Single Sweep – The display provides one measurement update after a key press is performed on the Single

Sweep soft key. Calibrate – The Cable Fault Locator performs a calibration to nullify effects from the RF directional

coupler/splitter.

Cable Loss

Shows the cable loss in dB per unit length at the Center Frequency for the selected Cable Type in a numeric entry window. Also allows a user to override that value or enter one for the specific cable under test. The entry units are determined by the setting in the Distance Units submenu.

Velocity Factor

Shows the velocity factor for the selected Cable Type in a numeric entry window. Also allows a user to override that value or enter one for the specific cable under test.

Display Mode

Selects the display presentation with the following horizontal menu choices: Normal – The display updates continuously. Freeze – Provides a display snapshot of the first measurement sweep started by a Continuous or Single

Sweep key press in the Analyze submenu, then stops additional display updates. If a measurement sweep is already in process during the key press, the display updates when complete, and then freezes. Note: Measurement sweeps completed and displayed before the Freeze key press are not frozen and will be overwritten by the first subsequent sweep.

Max Hold – The display retains the highest peak signal amplitudes measured during successive sweeps. Average – Displays a rolling average of the peak return loss amplitude measured on each successive

sweep. The average consists of 1 to 5 sweeps, shown beside the mode indication.

Marker Mode

Provides display marker control via a horizontal soft key menu. Off – No markers are displayed Absolute – Enables one marker with peak return loss and distance readings. Delta – Enables a second marker with peak return loss and distance readings. The distance between the

first and second marker is shown in the main display area.

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Toggle Marker

Cycles through the available markers to select the active one (yellow) for positional adjustment on the display. The active marker is moved using the Left/Right (◄►) cursor control buttons.

Find Peak

Moves the cursor to the highest peak in the display window and provides a numeric readout of the distance and return loss.

Distance Units

Select units of distance for cable length in either meters or feet.

Add Cable Type

Allows custom entry of parameters for a user defined cable not on the standard selection list. The soft key activates a new submenu for entering a Cable Description and the associated cable specifications. These include the cable Velocity Factor along with the Nominal Attenuation Units for three frequency points. Pressing the Next soft key advances the menu to each successive Frequency/Nominal Attenuation entry – see Figure 2.2.6.4-2. The Back soft key returns to the previous entry menu.

Once the entries are completed for three frequency points, pressing the Save New Cable soft key loads the user defined cable into R8100 memory. The Return key brings the display back to the main Cable Fault Locator menu. The saved cable entry is now available on the Cable Type selection window.

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Figure 2.2.6.4-2 Frequency and Attenuation entries in the Add Cable Type submenu

Edit Cable

Allows parameter changes for the currently selected cable type. Note: This function is not available for factory provided selections.

Delete Cable

Removes the currently selected cable type from R8100 memory if it was stored as a user defined cable.

2.2.6.5 Other Meters

Pressing the “Other Meters” soft key provides a shortcut to the Meter Zone operation of the R8100. The screen displays the same horizontal menu of meter selections shown when the “Select Meter” soft key in the Meter Zone is pressed.

2.2.7 Test Menu

The R8100 Test Menu provides operator presets, optional dedicated test modes for advanced transmission protocols, and optional AutoTune automated test and alignment software for manufacturer specific radios.

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The presets permit storage or recall of R8100 operational settings allowing an operator to quickly recreate specific test conditions. Dedicated test modes such as DMR, P25, NXDN, dPMR and TETRA provide the ability to analyze advanced transmission protocols using digital modulation (see section 2.2.7.2) for the supported optional protocols. The embedded AutoTune software application allows the R8100 to test and align a variety of manufactured radios without the need for an external computer. Figure 3.2.8-1 shows the submenu screen after pressing the dedicated Test navigation key.

Figure 3.2.8-1 Submenu after pressing Test navigation key

2.2.7.1 Presets

Presets are a convenient tool for storing and recalling R8100 operational settings. They are especially useful when several unique operating configurations are required in a test environment. Presets ensure a fast and accurate method of configuring the analyzer for multiple test applications. To save time and avoid errors the R8100 can store over 100 preset operating configurations. Figure 3.2.8.1-1 shows the submenu after pressing the Presets soft key. If there are any Presets present they can be highlighted for further action by using the Up/Down keys (▲▼) or spin knob. In Figure 3.2.8.1-1 the TEST1 Preset is highlighted (blue border).

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2.2.7.1.1 Power Up Configuration

If no presets are present the R8100 powers up in the default factory configuration. Otherwise the power up configuration becomes that of the last Preset loaded or saved before the unit was powered down.

Figure 3.2.8.1-1 Submenu after pressing Presets soft key

Save Configuration As

This soft key saves the current R8100 operational settings into a memory Preset. Label the Preset in the data entry window using the Left/Right (◄►) keys and the numeric keypad as shown in Fig 3.2.8.1-2. You can cycle through the alphanumeric sequence marked on the keys with repeated keypad presses or

by using the Up/Down keys (▲▼) and spin knob. Names can’t have spaces or blanks between characters.

Pressing Enter adds the new Preset to the list while Esc cancels the entry.

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Figure 3.2.8.1-2 Data entry mode after pressing Save Configuration soft key

Load Selected Preset

Pressing this soft key configures the R8100 to the settings saved under the highlighted Preset. Use the

Up/Down keys (▲▼) or spin knob to scroll through the available selections. Note: The selected Preset

becomes the new default configuration on power up unless a different one is chosen or saved before powering down the analyzer.

Save As Selected Preset

Pressing this soft key saves the current R8100 operational settings to the highlighted Preset. Use the Up/Down keys (▲▼) or spin knob to scroll through the available selections. Any existing operational settings under that Preset name are overwritten by the current R8100 settings. Note: The saved Preset becomes the new default configuration on power up unless a different one is chosen or saved before powering down the analyzer.

Import Presets

Imports presets from an external memory storage device attached to a USB port on the R8100.

Export Presets

Saves presets stored on the R8100 to an external memory storage device attached to a USB port on the R8100.

Delete Selected Preset

Erases the highlighted Preset from the R8100 memory.

Load Factory Configuration

Loads and configures the R8100 to the as shipped factory settings. Note: These become the default on power up unless a different Preset is loaded or saved before powering down the analyzer.

2.2.7.2 Test Mode submenu

The Test Mode soft key displays the available transmission protocol or radio specific test modes on a horizontal submenu as shown in Figure 3.2.8.2-1. The R8100’s current operating mode (e.g. Monitor or Generator) is always shown in the left tab of the message bar at the bottom of the main display, with the Test Mode shown immediately to the right. The active test mode is also indicated by the blue highlighted horizontal soft key in the Test Mode submenu, along with the other available test modes. The test mode options for the R8100 include the DMR (ETSI Digital Mobile Radio) protocol with Motorola MOTOTRBO™ as the initial compliant offering, Project 25 phase 1 conventional and trunking, P25 phase

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1 and phase 2, NXDN™ conventional and trunking, dPMR and TETRA. Other test mode options are under development and will be provided as firmware upgrades.

Figure 3.2.8.2-1 Test Mode submenu

2.2.7.2.1 DMR Test Mode with MOTOTRBO™

The R8100 DMR Test Package option / DMR Test Mode allows testing of repeater/subscriber radios compliant with the ETSI Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Tier 2 conventional (non-trunked) radio transmission protocol. DMR radios use a digital transmission format employing 4-Level Frequency Shift Keying (4FSK) modulation with a channel access method of Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) technology with two slots per frame. Pressing the DMR soft key initiates the DMR test mode. On the R8100 main display the Standard mode’s Audio Zone and Audio Zone soft key are replaced by a DMR soft key and DMR specific content – see Figure 3.2.8.3-1. In addition, a Power Profile display is available in Display Zone and a Constellation display is automatically selected in Meter Zone as a convenience.

The manufacturer’s Radio Service Software (RSS), Motorola MOTOTRBO™ Radio Tuner software, is

required to perform some tests in DMR mode because certain measurements (BER) require placing the radio in a special test mode. The Tuner software places the radio in specific test modes, while the role of the R8100 service monitor is to transmit and receive test patterns compliant to the DMR physical layer. Tests that don’t require RSS include subscriber slot power, Frequency Error, Symbol Deviation, FSK Error, Magnitude Error, Power Profile, and Constellation. Averaging can be applied to some measurements by the System Settings. Figure 3.2.8.3-1 shows the R8100 main screen after choosing the DMR Test Mode in Monitor mode.

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Figure 3.2.8.3-1 DMR transmitter tests

2.2.7.2.2 DMR transmitter tests

These tests are performed with the R8100 in Monitor mode – see Figure 3.2.8.3.1-1. During repeater/subscriber radio transmission the R8100 continuously measures the quality of the

radio’s transmitted 4FSK signal over the 132 symbols (264 bits) that comprise an entire DMR

TDMA burst. Although the service monitor synchronizes to the first burst, it can measure the quality of any of the 6 bursts transmitted by the radio.

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Figure 3.2.8.3.1-1 Submenu after pressing DMR soft key in Generator mode

2.2.7.2.3 RF Zone

Input Level

Input Lvl displays the average power in the specified Burst of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal.

Note: Although Input Level is used for Squelch, Squelch has no effect on measurement updates. Note: When the RF input power on the RF In/Out port is above +20 dBm (100 mW), the R8100 utilizes a

broadband power detector for the measurement. The “Input Lvl” field in the RF Zone changes to “Watt Meter” to indicate this measurement mode. For best accuracy disable the Pre-amplifier in Monitor Mode, and set the Gen Port in Generate Mode to RF In/Out.

Note: The TDMA transmission alternates between a used and unused time slot so the RF Zone field will

switch between the two. An unused slot has no power, so the display will flash between “Input Lvl” and

“Watt Meter”. In this condition the Input Level reading should be used since null slots can cause the Watt

Meter indication to read approximately 3 dB less than the power in the used slots.

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Freq Error

Freq Error displays the frequency difference of the received DMR transmission carrier minus the R8100 Monitor Frequency.

Note: For other standard RF Zone settings see RF Zone / Monitor Mode.

2.2.7.2.3.1 DMR Zone

Count

Increments each time the specified SYNC Pattern is detected, thus the R8100 synchronizes to that TDMA slot.

Note: Test measurements are only displayed if two consecutive SYNC patterns are detected; this maximizes the accuracy of the measurement.

Source ID

Displays the Source Identifier (ID) which identifies the individual address of the transmitter. This is obtained from bytes 7-9 of the Full Link Control message composed by four 32-bit embedded signaling fields at the center of bursts B to F of a voice superframe. The Source ID is displayed in base 10 and base 16 format

Displays the 4-bit color code (0 to 15) of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal transmission. CC is digital ID information equivalent to CTCSS/PL and CDCSS/DPL of analog FM radio systems.

Symbol Deviation

Displays the symbol deviation estimated by averaging the normalized frequency deviations at symbol times in the specified burst of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal and then scaling by the maximum symbol value. The normalized frequency deviation is computed as the ratio of the actual frequency measurement at a given symbol or deviation state by the corresponding symbol value. The ideal is 1944 Hz.

FSK Error

Displays the percentage computed from the symbols in the specified Burst of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal. The FSK Error is computed relative to the Symbol Deviation measurement.

Magnitude Error

Displays the percentage computed from the symbols in the specified Burst of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal.

BER

Displays the bit error rate percentage of bit differences between the O.153 pattern and the bits of the synchronized TDMA slot of the received signal. For example, if 13 of the 1296 super frame payload bits do not match the predefined pattern, the rate will be 1.0030864% (13/1296*100%). Assurance of the computation may be gained by transmitting a different calibration test pattern (e.g. BER of 1031 Hz vs. O.153 is 47.299381%).

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Brand (DMR submenu)

Choose DMR compliant manufacturer brand for specific testing by the R8100. The tests and display may change to address unique aspects of each manufacturer’s radio series.

Figure 3.2.8.3.1.2-1 Voice Loopback Recording

Voice Loopback (DMR submenu)

This enables the Voice Loop feature in DMR mode (U.S. patent 5703479). Once enabled the R8100 automatically records an input message when the radio under test transmits a signal above the squelch level setting (see Front Panel Control Knobs). A Voice Loop progress bar in the test mode zone is bold when Voice Loopback is enabled. The maximum length of the recording is 10 seconds and a light green progress bar shows the recording’s progress (see Figure 3.2.8.3.1.2-1). The recording continues if the transmission is longer, but only the most recent is retained. When the radio is un-keyed the R8100 automatically switches to Generate mode and transmits the captured input message back to the radio (see Figure 3.2.8.3.2-2). The position of the recording being played back is displayed with a dark green progress bar. When the recorded message has been played and a 3-second settling delay has passed, the operation mode automatically switches back to Monitor mode so another message can be recorded. This

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Freedom R8100 SERIES Operator's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual