R8100 SERIES
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM ANALYZER
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Documentation for firmware version 2.0.0.0
Freedom Communication Technologies
2002 Synergy Blvd. Suite 200
Kilgore Texas 75662 USA
Tel/Fax: +1-844-903-7333
Freedom Communication Technologies 2015
All Rights Reserved
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
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.
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 NOTICEMOTOTRBO™ 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
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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.
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.
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
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
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.
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).
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
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.
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.
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.
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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