KVH Industries TracVision 6 User Manual

Satellite Television

KVHTracVision

®

6

technical

manual

•

Installation

•

Configuration

•

Maintenance

A Guide to TracVision 6

1

54-0166 Addendum to Rev. C

TracVision 6-HP
Technical Manual Addendum

(ECO #7134)

The following changes apply to Revision C of the
TracVision 6-HP Technical Manual (KVH Part Number 54-0166).

The “=TV” configuration command printed in the manual is incorrect.
For your TracVision 6-HP system, the correct configuration command
is

=TVG6HPT

, not

=TVG6HP

.

You will need to enter the

=TVG6HPT

command whenever you replace
the main printed circuit board (PCB) or calibrate the antenna gyro, at
the steps noted below.

4.4 Replacing the PCBs and Fuses

Replacing the Main PCB

13. Type =TVG6HPT<cr> (<cr> = Press the Enter key).

4.5 Replacing the Antenna Gyro

Assembly

Calibrating the Antenna Gyro

8. Type =TVG6HPT<cr>.

TracVision 6

Technical Manual

This manual provides detailed instructions on the proper
installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of
the KVH TracVision 6 system. Complete instructions on how to
use the TracVision 6 system is provided in the TracVision 6 User’s

Guide.

Throughout this manual, important information is marked for
your attention by these icons:

Direct questions, comments, or suggestions to:

KVH Industries, Inc. KVH Europe A/S

50 Enterprise Center Kokkedal Industripark 2B
Middletown, RI 02842-5279 USA 2980 Kokkedal, Denmark
Tel: [phone] Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone] Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail] E-mail: [e-mail]
Internet: www.kvh.com Internet: www.kvh.com

If you have any comments regarding this manual, please e-mail
them to [e-mail]. Your input is greatly appreciated!

KVH Part # 54-0166 Rev. C

© 2004, KVH Industries, Inc. All rights reserved.

TracVision 6 Serial Number

This serial number will be required
for all troubleshooting or service
calls made regarding this product.

Welcome to TracVision 6

Click here to go to our state­of-the-art Customer Support
web page...the fastest and
easiest way to get all of your
questions answered!

A helpful tip that either directs you to
a related area within the manual or
offers suggestions on getting the
best performance from your system.

An alert to important information
regarding procedures, product
specifications, or product use.

Information about installation,
maintenance, troubleshooting, or
other mechanical issues.

An electrical safety warning to help
identify electrical issues that can be a
hazard to either this KVH product or
a user.

TracVision®and KVH®are registered trademarks

of KVH Industries, Inc.

TracNet

™

is a trademark of KVH Industries, Inc.

DVB

®

(Digital Video Broadcasting) is a registered trademark of the DVB Project.

DIRECTV

®

is a registered trademark of DIRECTV, Inc.,

a unit of the DIRECTV Group.

DISH Network

™

is an official trademark of

EchoStar Communications Corporation.

ExpressVu is a property of Bell ExpressVu, a wholly owned

subsidiary of Bell Satellite Services.

54-0166

i

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.1 TracVision 6 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

1.2 TracVision 6 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

1.3 Materials Provided With the TracVision 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

2.1 Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2 Mounting the TracVision Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

2.3 Connecting the IRD(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

2.4 Wiring the Switchplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

2.5 Mounting the Switchplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

2.6 Activating/Programming the IRD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

2.7 Installing Satellites to Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

2.8 Setting the Skew Angle

(European Systems Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

2.9 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

2.10 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

3 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

3.1 Troubleshooting Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

3.2 Causes and Remedies for Common

Operational Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

3.3 IRD Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

3.4 Antenna Gyro and LNB Faults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

3.5 Computer Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

3.6 Maintenance Port Parser Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

4 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

4.1 Warranty/Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

4.2 Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

4.3 TracVision 6 Field Replaceable Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

4.4 Replacing the PCBs and Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

4.5 Replacing the Antenna Gyro Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

4.6 Replacing the Azimuth Limit Switch Assembly . . . . . . . . .61

4.7 Replacing the Elevation Motor and Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

4.8 Replacing the LNB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

4.9 Preparing for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

A System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

B Switchplate Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

C Comprehensive TracVision 6 System Wiring Diagram . . . . . .75

D Startup Data Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

E Maintenance Port Parser Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

54-0166

ii

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Introduction

54-0166

1

1 – Introduction

This section provides a basic overview of the TracVision 6 system. It
explains how the system works and describes the function of each
component.

Contents

1.1 TracVision 6 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

1.2 TracVision 6 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

1.3 Materials Provided With the TracVision 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Introduction

54-0166

3

1.1 TracVision 6 System Overview

A complete satellite TV system includes the TracVision 6 antenna
connected to the switchplate, an IRD (satellite TV receiver), and a
television set. The optional TV/SAT Switch allows you to select a
satellite at the press of a button. A desktop or laptop computer is
used to configure the system and conduct diagnostics. The
complete system is illustrated in Figure 1-1. System specifications

are provided in Appendix A on page 71.

System Compatibility

The TracVision 6 satellite antenna is fully compatible with Digital
Video Broadcasting (DVB

®

) satellites, as well as DIRECTV®‘s
Digital Satellite Service (DSS) satellites. The system is also fully
compatible with KVH’s TracNet

™

2.0 Mobile High-speed Internet

System (for more information about TracNet 2.0, please visit our
web site at www.kvh.com).

In-motion Tracking

The TracVision 6 uses a state-of-the-art actively stabilized antenna
system. Once the satellite is acquired, the antenna gyro
continuously measures the heading, pitch, and roll of your vessel
and sends commands to the antenna motors to keep the antenna
pointed at the satellite at all times.

Figure 1-1

TracVision 6 System Diagram

Figure 1-2

TracVision Identifies and
Compensates for Vessel Motion

TracVision 6 Antenna

11-16 VDC

3.5 - 4.5 Amps

Switchplate

Powe r

RF

Options Purchased Separately

Satellite Receiver 1

TV 1

Data

TV/SAT Switch

RF

(optional)

E

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Satellite Receiver 2

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PC Maintenance

Laptop PC

TracVision

54-0166

4

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Satellite Library

Your TracVision 6 includes a pre-programmed satellite library of
North American, European, and Latin American satellite
services. When configuring the TracVision 6, you may choose a
pair of satellites from the library to be active in the system and
with your IRD.

For the antenna to track and receive signals from two satellites,
they must be within 10º longitude of each other in orbit. As a
result, certain satellites can be paired only with certain other
satellites. Tables 1-1 and 1-2 list the possible satellite pairs that
may be selected in North America and Europe. In Latin America,
the system can track Galaxy3CN, Galaxy3CS, or PAS_9 (Latin
American LNB required). If the satellite service you wish to receive is

not listed in the satellite library, you may add two additional satellites
of your choice to the library.

TracVision 6’s default satellite pairs
are:

N. America (US DIRECTV):

DSS_101 & DSS_119

Europe: ASTRA1 & HOTBIRD

L. America (DIRECTV LA):

GALAXY3CN & NONE

Table 1-2

Available Satellite Pairs - Europe

(European LNB required)

Table 1-1

Available Satellite Pairs

- North America

(North American LNB required)

DSS_101 ✓✓✓

DSS_119 ✓✓✓

Echo_61 ✓✓ ✓✓

Echo_110 ✓ ✓✓✓✓

Echo_119 ✓✓ ✓✓✓

Echo_148 ✓✓ ✓✓

Expressvu ✓✓✓✓✓✓ ✓

ExpressTV ✓✓✓✓✓✓✓

Astra 1 Astra 2N Astra 2S Hispasat Hotbird WB Sirius Thor Arabsat Nilesat

Astra 1 ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓

Astra 2N ✓✓✓

Astra 2S ✓✓✓

Hispasat

Hotbird WB ✓✓ ✓ ✓

Sirius ✓✓✓

Thor ✓✓

Arabsat ✓✓ ✓ ✓

Nilesat ✓✓

DSS_101 DSS_119 Echo_61 Echo_110 Echo_119 Echo_148 Expressvu ExpressTV

1.2 TracVision 6 Components

Your TracVision 6 system includes the following components:

Antenna Unit

The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning mechanism, low
noise block (LNB), power supply, and control elements within a
molded ABS radome. Weathertight connectors on the bottom of
the baseplate join the power, signal, and control cabling from
belowdecks units.

Switchplate

The switchplate controls power to the antenna via the On/Off
switch. It also provides a DB9 maintenance port for connecting a
computer or TV/SAT Switch for changing satellites and
configuring the system.

Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD)

(Satellite TV Receiver)

The IRD (purchased separately) receives satellite signals from the
antenna unit for signal processing and channel selection, and
sends the signals to the TV set for viewing. Please refer to the
user’s manual provided with your selected IRD for complete
operating instructions.

Introduction

54-0166

5

Before you can start watching
satellite TV using your TracVision
antenna, you will need to activate
your IRD. Refer to

Section 2.6,
“Activating/Programming the IRD”
on page 27

for details.

1.3 Materials Provided With the
TracVision 6

Table 1-3 lists the components and materials in the TracVision 6
shipping carton.

Component KVH Part No.

Antenna Unit 02-1045-01HP

†

02-1045-02HP

††

02-1045-03HP

†††

02-1045-04HP

††††

Switchplate 02-1023

Installation Kitpack 72-0103

Data Cable 32-0619-100

PC Cable 32-0628-06

RF Cable* 32-0566-100

Power Cable 32-0510-100

Ground Cable 32-0583-50

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

54-0166

TracVision 6 User’s Guide

54-0166-01

†

North American system

††

European system with dual-output LNB

†††

Latin American system

††††

European system with quad-output LNB

* Not supplied with European quad-output LNB systems

54-0166

6

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Table 1-3

TracVision 6 Packing List

For a list of items supplied in the
kitpack, see Table 2-3 on page 10.

Installation

54-0166

7

2 – Installation

This section explains how to install, configure, and test the
TracVision 6 system. Follow the simple procedures in this section
sequentially to ensure a safe and effective installation.

Contents

2.1 Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

2.2 Mounting the TracVision Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

2.3 Connecting the IRD(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

2.4 Wiring the Switchplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

2.5 Mounting the Switchplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

2.6 Activating/Programming the IRD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

2.7 Installing Satellites to Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

2.8 Setting the Skew Angle

(European Systems Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

2.9 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

2.10 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Installation

54-0166

9

2.1 Planning the Installation

Who Should Install the TracVision 6

KVH recommends that a KVH-authorized technician install the
TracVision 6 system. Installers should have experience installing
electronic equipment on a vessel.

Materials and Equipment Required for Installation

Before you begin installing the TracVision 6 system, you need to
verify that you have all of the following tools and materials:

• Electric drill

•

1

⁄2" (13 mm) drill bit and 3" (80 mm) hole saw

• Socket wrenches and

7

⁄16" open end wrench

• Flat head and Phillips screwdrivers

• Crimp tool (Augat T1000 or equivalent)

• Light hammer; center punch; tape; scriber/pencil

• Terminal lug crimping tool; wire strippers

• RG-6 or RG-11 cable with F-type connectors for

extra RF cables as needed. Refer to Table 2-1 to

determine the number of RF cables that you will need.

Connecting to: # RF Cables

North American/Latin American Systems

One IRD 1

Two IRDs 2

Three or more IRDs 2*

European Systems with Dual-output LNB

One IRD 1

Two IRDs 2

European Systems with Quad-output LNB

One IRD 1

Two IRDs 2

Three IRDs 3

Four IRDs 4

More than four IRDs 4*

* Multiswitch needed. Follow multiswitch manufacturer’s guidelines.

Plan the entire installation before
proceeding! Take into account
antenna unit placement, cable
running distances between units,
and accessibility to the equipment
after installation.

Table 2-1

Number of RF Cables to Connect
to the Antenna

RG-11 or RG-6 cable with F-type
connectors is required for all RF
wiring. Use of any other cable will
result in degraded performance.
Use RG-6 cable for distances up to
75 ft (23 m); use RG-11 cable for
distances greater than 75 ft (23 m).
The KVH warranty does not cover
degraded performance due to
improper wiring.

You may want to connect four RF
cables to the antenna in all cases.
That way, if an IRD is added in the
future, no additional RF cables will
need to be run.

• A PC with terminal emulation software such as

Windows Hyperterminal or PROCOMM.

• Power cable to connect the switchplate to ship’s
power (Table 2-2 provides proper gauge and
length specifications).

Cable Length Cable Gauge

to 50 ft (15 m) 14 AWG (1.5 mm2)

+50 ft (+15 m) 12 AWG (2.5 mm2)

Kitpack Contents

The kitpack packaged with your antenna unit contains various
hardware and other materials that will be needed to complete the
TracVision system installation. Ensure that the kitpack contains
all of the items listed in Table 2-3.

Part Qty. KVH Part No.

3

⁄8"-16 x 3" hex head screws 4 14-0227-48

3

⁄8" flat washers 8 14-0229

3

⁄8"-16 hex nuts 4 14-0228

3

⁄8" lock washers 4 14-0230

3

⁄8" fiber shoulder washers 8 14-0336

Plastic screw covers 12 19-0088

Foam seal 1 24-0142

Tie-wraps 2 22-0013

Core clamp (ferrite) 1 29-0037-02

54-0166

10

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Table 2-3

Kitpack Contents

Table 2-2

Recommended Switchplate-to-

Ship’s Power Cable Specifications

Choosing Component Locations

The major considerations in locating the TracVision components
are described below.

Cable Lengths

When determining component locations, keep in mind
accessibility and cable lengths between units. Lengths of these
cables are as follows:

Cable (Function) Length

Data Cable (Switchplate to Antenna Unit) 100 ft (30 m)

PC Cable (Switchplate to PC) 6 ft (2 m)

RF Cable (Antenna to IRD)* 100 ft (30 m)

Power Cable (Switchplate to Antenna Unit) 100 ft (30 m)

IRD Ground Cable (IRD to Switchplate) 50 ft (15 m)

* Not included with European quad-output LNB systems

Installation

54-0166

11

Table 2-4

Lengths of Provided
Belowdecks Cables

Choosing the Best Location for the TracVision Antenna

There are several factors to consider when choosing the location
for the TracVision antenna.

• Since the TracVision antenna requires a clear view

of the southern sky to receive satellite signals, the
ideal antenna site has an unobstructed view of the
horizon/satellite all around. The less blockage, the
better the system performs.

• Keep the antenna clear of any obstructions above
decks. The antenna requires a 10º to 80º look angle
to receive satellite signals.

• To minimize tracking errors, place the antenna
unit as close as possible to the intersection of the
vessel’s fore-and-aft centerline and midships.

• The mounting surface should be flat and strong

enough to carry the complete assembly (55 lbs/
25 kg). To prevent warpage to the antenna
baseplate, make sure that the mounting surface is
rigid so that it cannot flex when the vessel
vibrates. If necessary, add a strength member to
the mounting site to stiffen it.

• Be sure to account for the height and base
dimensions (see Figure 2-2 on the following page).

54-0166

12

TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Figure 2-1

Antenna Blockage

Blocked!

TracVision Antenna

Mast

Vessel Platform

Radar Concerns

The TracVision antenna must be kept out of line with nearby
radars, as their energy levels may overload the antenna’s front­end circuits. In an ideal installation, the antenna is mounted four
feet (1.2 m) above and four feet (1.2 m) away from the radar
(measured from the center of the antenna dome to the center of
the radar).

The best placement for the TracVision antenna is above the radar.
However, if there will be a significant horizontal separation
between the radar and TV dome (i.e., at least 8 to 10 feet (2.5 to
3 m)), the TracVision antenna can be placed below the radar as
there will be little chance of signal blockage.

Installation

54-0166

13

Figure 2-2

Antenna Unit Dimensions

The radome exterior is treated
with a special finish selected for
compatibility with the dome material
and transparency to the satellite
signals. Application of additional
paints or finishes WILL degrade
performance, potentially beyond
acceptable limits.

A full-size template of the baseplate
mounting holes has been provided
at the back of this manual.

27.36"

(695 mm)

Compression Seal

4x .50"

(4x 13 mm)

26.2"

(665 mm)

6.0" (152 mm)

12.0"

(305 mm)

FWD

6.0" (152 mm)

12.0"

(305 mm)

Locating the Switchplate

A switchplate has been provided to serve as the hub of the
TracVision 6 wiring (with the exception of the RF cable, which
will be connected to the IRD). The switchplate includes an
On/Off switch and a DB9 maintenance port for easy access to the
antenna unit’s software and diagnostics. Follow the steps below
to select and prepare the switchplate mounting location.

1. Select a location to mount the TracVision 6
switchplate. It should be installed in a dry, flat
location within reach of the cables that will
connect to the antenna unit and allowing easy
access to the front panel.

2. Once you’ve decided on a suitable location, create
a panel cutout in the mounting surface.
Figure 2-3 illustrates the mounting dimensions
and a template has been provided in Appendix B.
The connecting cables will be routed through this
cutout.

54-0166

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TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Figure 2-3

Switchplate Panel

Cutout Dimensions

A full-scale panel cutout template
has been provided in

Appendix B

on page 73.

2.36"

(60 mm)

.16" (4 mm)

3.82"

(97 mm)

.32" (8 mm)

Panel Cutout

3.19"

(81 mm)

3

/32" (2.5 mm) dia

2.05"

(52 mm)

2.2 Mounting the TracVision
Antenna

1. Make sure that you have chosen a suitable
mounting location based upon the guidelines in
“Choosing the Best Location for the TracVision
Antenna” on page 12.

2. Using the template provided at the back of this
manual or the dimensions shown in Figure 2-4, lay
out the four mounting bolt holes and cable access
hole at the mounting site. Make certain that the
“FWD” arrow is parallel with the vessel’s
centerline and pointed toward the bow.

3. Drill the four

1

⁄2" (13 mm) bolt holes and cut out the
3" (80 mm) diameter cable access hole (following
the layout in Step 2). Smooth the edges of the cable
access hole to protect the cables.

4. Bring the data cable, power cable, and RF cable(s)
from belowdecks up through the cable access hole
in the mounting surface (see Table 2-1 on page 9 to
determine the number of RF cables required).
Belowdecks, route the opposite end(s) of the RF
cable(s) to the IRD(s) or multiswitch; route the
opposite ends of the data cable and power cable
through the switchplate panel cutout.

Installation

54-0166

15

Figure 2-4

Antenna Mounting Holes Layout

Be careful not to strike the exposed
connectors extending from the
bottom of the baseplate or allow
them to carry the weight of the
antenna unit.

A full-size template of the baseplate
mounting holes has been provided
at the back of this manual.

DOME

26.2"

4 x 0.5"

(4 x 1.3 cm)

3"

( 7.6 cm)

( 67 cm)

6"

(15.2 cm)

12"

(30.5 cm)

F

D

W

(15.2 cm)

(30.5 cm)

6"

12"

5. Remove the antenna unit from its shipping carton
and set the radome aside in a safe place. If you
bring the radome topside, be sure to secure it with
a lanyard so that it does not fall overboard.

6. Remove the foam shipping restraints from the
antenna unit.

7. Place the foam seal in position on the mounting
surface with the hole centered over the cable
access cutout. Do not remove the paper backing at
this time. Scribe a line all around the seal.

8. Position the baseplate assembly in place over the
mounting holes and cable access, with the
baseplate’s “Forward” arrow (shown in Figure 2-5)
pointing toward the bow. Ensure that all holes line
up and that the connectors are centered over the
cable access as shown in Figure 2-6. Make any
necessary adjustments before seating the foam seal
in place permanently.

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Figure 2-5

Baseplate “Forward” Arrow

Figure 2-6

Baseplate/Foam Seal Orientation

(Bottom View)

The foam shipping restraints must
be removed before power is
applied. Save the restraints for
reuse and be sure to install them
whenever the antenna unit is
moved from place to place. See

Section 4.9, “Preparing for
Shipment” on page 67

for details.

For the antenna to work properly,
the baseplate’s “Forward” arrow
MUST be parallel with the vessel’s
centerline and pointed toward the
bow.

FWD

9. Clean the mounting surface where the foam seal
will be placed. Remove the paper backing from the
foam seal to expose the contact cement, then lay
the foam seal in place, adhesive side down, and
press down firmly to bring the adhesive into full
contact along the mounting surface.

10. Connect the data, power, and RF cables from
belowdecks to the baseplate as shown in
Figure 2-7. Turn the power and data cable
connectors down until locked in place; don’t use
excessive force. Connect the RF cable(s) with a

7

⁄16"
wrench, applying 30 pounds of torque. If you
connect more than one RF cable, label both ends of
each RF cable to match its antenna baseplate
connector (RF1, RF2, RF3, or RF4). Do NOT use

teflon gel on the cable fittings as it reduces
signal strength at higher frequencies.

11. Place the antenna baseplate over the holes drilled
in the foundation, ensuring the “Forward” label
(shown in Figure 2-5) points toward the bow.

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Figure 2-7

Baseplate Connector Assignments
(Bottom View)

Used only with

Quad-output LNB

DataPower

Single IRD
Installation

Second IRD

Installation

12. At each of the four baseplate mounting holes,
place a

3

⁄8" flat washer on a 3⁄8"-16 bolt and insert the
bolt into the hole from above, as shown in
Figure 2-8. Carefully rotate the azimuth
mechanism plate to expose all four mounting
holes.

13. Apply a

3

⁄8" fiber shoulder washer, 3⁄8" flat washer,

and

3

⁄8"-16 lock nut from below, as shown in

Figure 2-8.

14. Tighten securely (but do not overtighten) until the
foam seal is compressed as far as it will go and all
four feet are bottomed against the mounting
surface.

15. If you are installing a European system:
Leave the radome off for now; you will install it
later.

If you are installing a North American or Latin
American system:

Place the radome over the baseplate. Align the six
radome screw holes with the inserts in the
baseplate, insert the #10-32 screws and tighten.
Install a protective plastic screw cap from the
kitpack over each screw.

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TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Figure 2-8

Bolting the Antenna Unit to

the Deck (Side View)

When rotating the azimuth
mechanism by hand, go slowly.
Hitting the mechanical stops with
excessive force will damage the
azimuth limit switch.

Bolt

Flat Washer

Shoulder Washer

(Preinstalled)

Antenna Unit Base

Foam Seal

Deck

Shoulder Washer

Flat Washer

Lock Nut

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2.3 Connecting the IRD(s)

For the TracVision system to work, you must connect the
following cables to your satellite TV receiver(s) (IRDs):

• RF Cable

• Ground Wire

Connecting the RF Cable(s)

Each RF cable must be an RG-11 (75 ohms) or RG-6 (75 ohms)
cable fitted with F-type connectors. The RF cable(s) should
already be connected to the antenna baseplate (see Step 10 of
Section 2.2., “Mounting the TracVision Antenna” on page 17). The
following sections explain how to connect the RF cable(s) to your
IRD(s).

To connect the TracVision antenna to your IRD(s), choose one of
the following configurations (based on the number of IRDs you
will connect to the antenna):

Option 1 - Connecting One IRD

Option 2 - Connecting Two IRDs

Option 3 - Connecting Three or More IRDs

Option 1 - Connecting One IRD

One end of the RF cable should already be connected to the
connector labeled “RF1” on the base of the TracVision antenna.
Connect the other end of the RF1 cable to the IRD connector
labeled “LNB,” “ANT/SAT,” or “SATELLITE IN.”

Option 2 - Connecting Two IRDs

Two RF cables should already be connected to the connectors
labeled “RF1” and “RF2” on the base of the TracVision antenna.
Connect the other ends of these RF cables to the connector
labeled “LNB,” “ANT/SAT,” or “SATELLITE IN” on the two
IRDs.

The IRD that is connected to the RF1 cable controls which
satellite the antenna is tracking. The IRD connected to RF2 can
select different channels on that satellite but not change the
satellite selection itself.

For instructions on RF wiring for
TracNet, please refer to the

Tr ac Ne t

Owner’s Manual

or

Technical

Manual

.

Before you connect an RF cable to
an IRD, turn on the IRD and TV
and verify that there is no AC
voltage present on the IRD’s input
connector, measured between
center conductor and shield. If AC
voltage is present on the connector,

DO NOT

connect the RF cable until
you have corrected the problem.
This is a potentially dangerous
condition that will damage the
antenna’s electronics.

Option 3 - Connecting Three or More IRDs

(North American and Latin American Systems)

To connect three or four IRDs to the TracVision antenna, you will
need to install an active multiswitch (Channel Master model
6214IFD or equivalent) between the antenna and the IRDs. Two
RF cables should already be connected to the connectors labeled
“RF1” and “RF2” on the base of the TracVision antenna.
Figure 2-9 shows a typical wiring arrangement for three or four
IRDs. Mount the multiswitch unit in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instruction sheet.

1. Connect the RF cable labeled "RF1" to the
multiswitch input labeled "LNB RHCP +13V.”

2. Connect the RF cable labeled “RF2” to the
multiswitch input labeled "LNB LHCP +18V.”

3. Connect the multiswitch outputs to individual IRD
inputs. Use RG-6 cable with F-type connectors for
all RF connections. Terminate all unused output
connectors with 75 ohm DC blocks (Channel
Master #7184, Radio Shack #15-1259 or equivalent).

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TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Figure 2-9

Single Multiswitch Installation

(North American and Latin

American systems only)

The use of an active multiswitch will
interfere with the 22 KHz tone sent
by DIRECTV DSS Plus™IRDs to
the antenna. As a result, the
antenna will not receive the signal
to change satellites when you
change channels using your
DIRECTV DSS Plus remote. You
will need to use the optional
TV/SAT Switch* or a PC to switch
between satellites.

* To order a TV/SAT Switch (KVH Part
Number 01-0245), please call
[phone].

Due to the signal polarization in
European satellites, the use of a
multiswitch with a dual-output LNB
will result in a loss of signal and
less than optimal operation with
TracVision 6 systems used in
Europe.

TracVision Antenna Baseplate

RF1 RF2

DC Power

DC In RHCP

Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 Out 4

+13v

VHF/UHF LHCP

Multiswitch

+18v

IRD #1

IRD #2 IRD #3

IRD #4

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Multiple Multiswitch Installation

If you need to connect more than four IRDs to the TracVision
antenna, you may carry out a multiple multiswitch installation,
as shown in Figure 2-10.

Figure 2-10

Multiple Multiswitch Installation
(North American and Latin
American systems only)

DC Power

DC In RHCP

IRD #1

+13v

Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 Out 4

IRD #2 IRD #3

VHF/UHF LHCP

Multiswitch

TracVision Antenna Baseplate

RF1 RF2

RF Splitters/

Power Dividers

+18v

DC Power

IRD #4

DC In RHCP

Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 Out 4

+13v

Multiswitch

VHF/UHF LHCP

+18v

IRD #5 IRD #6 IRD #8IRD #7

Option 3 - Connecting Three or More IRDs

(European Quad-output LNB Systems)

In European systems that come with a quad-output LNB, all four
RF outputs from the TracVision antenna can be connected to
individual IRDs.

Connecting Three or Four IRDs

To connect a third IRD, a third RF cable should already be
connected to the plug labeled “RF3” on the base of the TracVision
antenna. Connect the other end of the RF3 cable to the plug
labeled “LNB,” “ANT/SAT,” or “SATELLITE IN” on the third
IRD. To connect a fourth IRD, use the fourth RF cable, which
should already be connected to the plug labeled “RF4” on the
base of the antenna.

Connecting More than Four IRDs

To connect more than four IRDs, you will need to install an active
multiswitch between the antenna and the IRDs. Connect the
multiswitch unit in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. Figure 2-11 shows an example of a European
multiswitch configuration.

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TracVision 6 Technical Manual

Figure 2-11

Multiswitch Installation

(European Quad-output LNB

systems only)

TracVision Antenna Baseplate

RF4

RF3 RF2 RF1

RF4 RF3 RF2 RF1

RF cables

supplied by customer

Ver t. H or.

Active Multiswitch

Out 1 Out 2 Out 3 Out 4 Out 5 Out 6 Out 7 Out 8

Vert./mod.

5-50 kHz

Hor./mod.

IRD #2IRD #1 IRD #3 IRD #6 IRD #7 IRD #8IRD #4 IRD #5

Connecting the IRD Ground Wire

A grounding wire has been provided to connect your IRD to a
suitable ground. Attach the grounding wire to any suitable screw
on the rear panel of the IRD with a good contact with the IRD
chassis. The other end should be connected to a suitable DC
ground, ideally to the switchplate’s ground terminal (route the

ground wire through the switchplate panel cutout and leave
unconnected for now). Each IRD that you connect to the

TracVision system should have a similar ground connection.

If you are using a multiswitch, you can ground the multiswitch instead
of the individual IRDs.

2.4 Wiring the Switchplate

All other wiring for the TracVision system connects to the
switchplate. For the TracVision system to work, you must wire
the following cables to the switchplate:

• Antenna Data Cable

• Antenna Power Cable

• Vessel Power Cable

• IRD Ground Wire(s)

Tips for Safe and Successful Wiring

• When attaching cables to the TracVision 6
switchplate connectors, make sure the insulation is
stripped back approximately

1

⁄4" (6 mm). Twist the
wires gently to help achieve a good connection. Do
not pinch insulation inside the connector.

• After attaching the power and data cables to the
appropriate terminal connector strips, tug gently
to ensure a firm connection.

• Do not tin (solder) the wire ends.

• All cables should be routed and dressed before
terminating at the switchplate. The antenna data
and power cables may be trimmed to desired
length. However, be sure to cut back the data
cable’s drain wire (shield); do NOT connect the
drain wire to anything.

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Be sure to connect a ground cable
from each IRD to a suitable DC
ground, ideally the switchplate’s
ground terminal.

Figure 2-12

Correctly Securing Wires within
the Switchplate Connectors

Do

NOT

connect the antenna data

cable’s drain wire (shield).

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