KVH Industries TracVision G4 User Manual

A Guide to TracVision G4

technical

• Configuration

• Installation manual

• Maintenance

Satellite Television

KVH TracVision® G4

TracVision® G4 Wiring Quick Reference Guide

Data Cable

Not Used

White/Gray

Gray/White

White/Orange

Orange/White

White/Brown

Brown/White

White/Blue

Blue/White

Not

Used

White/Green

Green/White

TracVision G4 can either receive power through the ADCU (as illustrated in

the diagram) or directly from ship’s power if that is more convenient.

Refer to "Alternate Method of Providing Power to the Antenna" on page 32 for details.

	Black	TracVision
	Red
		Power

Not Used

			60	59	58	57	56	55	54	53	52	51	50	49		48	47	46	45	44	43	42	41	40	39	38	37
1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12		13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24		25	26	27	28	29	30	31	32	33	34	35	36

+12 VDC

Ground

IRD Ground Wire

Ship’s

(to IRD)

Power

(11-16 VDC)

TracVision G4 will suffer serious damage if connected to power in

excess of 16 VDC. Complete details regarding connecting TracVision G4 to ship's power have been provided in "Connecting

the ADCU to Vessel Power" on page 37.

White/Green

White/Blue

Blue/White

White/Orange

Orange/White

Green/White

				Gyro Power
				Gyro TXD+
				Gyro TXD-	GyroTrac Sensor
				Gyro RXD-	Module Cable
				Gyro RXD+
				Ground

Wiring Color Code Definitions

First Color: Wire Second Color: Tracer

Example: Red/Orange = Red Wire with Orange Tracer

TVG4_TM_cover_540147_Rev.J

GyroTrac™ Advanced Digital Control Unit (ADCU) Menu Quick Reference Guide

ADCU Primary Display Options

Compass Displays*

Pitch, Roll, Yaw

Rate of Turn

Latitude/Longitude

†

See Section 3.2 for details

Magnetic Heading

Pitch

Roll

Yaw

Mag/Hdg

Rate/Sec

Lat:

##

###.#°

#.#°

#.#°

#.#°

#.#°

#.#°

Long:

##

SELECTED DISPLAY

Mag/HDG

True/HDG

###.#°

###.#°

Select Installed

Select Installed

Satellite A

Enter GyroTrac Mode Menus

Satellite B

* True North Display requires GPS data

† Lat/Long Display requires GPS data

GyroTrac Mode Menus

Return to Selected Primary Display

See Section 3.3 for details

See Section 3.4 for details

See Section 3.5 for details

See Section 3.6 for details

See Section 3.7 for details

Setup display type?

Setup data outputs?

Setup configuration?

Control Compass?

Get Antenna status?

Enter

Next Return

Yes

Next Return

Yes

Next

Return

Enter

Next

Return

Enter

Next Return

		compass?
	Yes		Next		Return
					Magnetic Heading
					###.#°
				Mag/HDG			True/HDG
					###.#°			###.#°
		Pitch,	Roll & Yaw?
	Yes		Next		Return
				Pitch		Roll		Yaw
					#.#°	#.#°		#.#°
		Rate of Turn?
	Yes		Next		Return
					Mag/Hdg		Rate/Sec
					#.#°			#.#°

Latitude Longitude?

Yes Next Return

Lat: ##

Long: ##

Antenna display?

Yes Next Return

Tracking <Sat Name>

###.#° ##.#° ####

ANTENNA Initializing

No Antenna Information

Set sine-cos levels?

Yes Next Return

Select Mag/True

Set Reference Voltage

Set Swing Voltage

Set serial outputs?

Yes Next Return

Select Serial Port 1, 2, or 3

Set Speed

Select Output Type

Set NMEA Outputs

Set Furuno outputs?

Yes Next Return

Select Mag/True

Set Data Rate

Alert Screens

Certain operations temporarily halt data output. In this event, the ADCU will display a set of alert screens. Select “Yes” to proceed, “No” to return to the Main Data Display.

** WARNING ** Data will be HALTED

* ARE YOU SURE? *

Yes No

Set brightness?

Yes Next Return

Dim or Brighten

ADCU Display

Set Heading int/ext?

Yes Next Return

Select Internal or External Heading Reference Source

Set Gyro Offsets?

Yes Next Return

Set Offset Pitch

Set Offset Roll

Set Offset Yaw

Default Display box?

Yes Next Return

Display Default

Set TV com on/off?

Yes Next Return

TV Antenna Communication

On or Off

Set AutoCal On/Off?

Yes Next Return

Autocalibration On or Off

Read Cal score?

Yes Next Return

Calibration Accuracy, Magnetic

Environment, and Calibration #

Clear Compass Cal?

Yes Next Return

Compass Calibration Reset

The Control Compass Menus are only available if the selected heading reference source is INTERNAL.

Get System Errors?

Yes Next Return

Errors Detected

Get version?

Yes Next Return

Antenna Type and Version

Get serial number?

Yes Next Return

Antenna Serial Number

Get Thres/sig level?

Yes Next Return

Threshold and

Signal Levels

Get skew angle?

Yes Next Return

LNB Skew Angle

Get bit error rate?

Yes Next Return

Bit Error Rate

See "Alert Screens" on page 65 for more details.

Antenna Displays

Tracking <Sat Name>

###.#° ##.#° ####

ANTENNA Initializing

No Antenna Information

See Section 3.8 for details

control antenna?

Enter Next Return

Man control antenna?

Yes Next Return

Adjust Azimuth

Adjust Elevation

	Restart antenna?
Yes		Next		Return
			Antenna Restarts
	Set sleep on/off?
Yes		Next		Return

Sleep Mode On/Off

set instant on/off? Yes Next Return

Instant On Mode On/Off

Install satellite?

Yes Next Return

Install Sat Pair

Set Latitude

Set Longitude

Restart Antenna

			Set Lat/Long?
	Yes		Next		Return
				Set Latitude
				Set Longitude

Select Satellite?

Yes Next Return

Select Active Satellite

Sat frequency scan?

Yes Next Return

Update Frequency

Welcome to TracVision G4

TracVision G4

Technical Manual

This manual provides detailed instructions on the proper installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of the KVH TracVision G4 system. Complete instructions on how to use the TracVision G4 system is provided in the TracVision G4 User’s Guide.

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

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.

TracVision G4 Serial Number

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.

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

Direct questions, comments, or suggestions to:

KVH Industries, Inc.	KVH Europe A/S
50 Enterprise Center	Ved Klaedebo 12
Middletown, RI 02842-5279 USA	2970 Hoersholm Denmark
Tel: [phone]	Tel: +45	45 16 01 80
Fax: [phone]	Fax: +45	45 86 70 77
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 # 54-0147 Rev. J

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

TracVision® and KVH® are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.

GyroTrac™ and TracNet™ are trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.

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

DIRECTV® is an official trademark of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of GM Hughes Electronics.

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.

Cetrek™ is a trademark of Cetrek USA.

Furuno® is a registered trademark of Furuno USA, Inc.

B&G® and Halcyon® are trademarks of Brooks and Gatehouse, Inc.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

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

1.1 TracVision G4 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 1.2 TracVision G4 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 1.3 Materials Provided With the TracVision G4 . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

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

2.1 Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 2.2 Mounting the TracVision Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 2.3 Mounting the GyroTrac Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 2.4 Mounting the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 2.5 Connecting the IRD(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 2.6 Wiring the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 2.7 Calibrating the Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 2.8 Activating/Programming the IRD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 2.9 Installing Satellites Using the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

2.10Setting the Skew Angle

(European Systems Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

2.11 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

2.12 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

3 Using the ADCU Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

3.1 Startup and Self-test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

3.2 Data Display and Accessing the Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . .63

3.3 Setup Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

3.4 Set Data Outputs Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

3.5 Set Configuration Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

3.6 Control Compass Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

3.7 Antenna Status Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

3.8 Control Antenna Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

54-0147	i

4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

4.1 Troubleshooting Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

4.2Causes and Remedies for Common

Operational Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94

4.3 GyroTrac-specific Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Introduction

1 – Introduction

This section provides a basic overview of the TracVision G4 system. It explains how the system works and describes the function of each component.

Contents

1.1 TracVision G4 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 1.2 TracVision G4 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 1.3 Materials Provided With the TracVision G4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

54-0147	1

Introduction

1.1TracVision G4 System Overview

A complete satellite TV system, illustrated in Figure 1-1, includes the TracVision G4 antenna unit connected to the GyroTrac digital gyro-stabilized sensor, Advanced Digital Control Unit (ADCU), an IRD (satellite TV receiver), and a television set. A desktop or laptop computer is used to conduct diagnostics. System specifications are provided in Appendix A on page 123.

TracVision G4 Antenna

11-16 VDC

3.5 - 4.5 Amps

Figure 1-1

TracVision G4 System Diagram

Advanced Digital		Options Purchased Separately
		Satellite Receiver 1	TV 1
Control Unit (ADCU)
	Power
	Data	RF
PC Diagnostics	GPS or	RF
	Ship's Gyro
Interfaces to:		Satellite Receiver 2	TV 2
Autopilots
Radars
Plotters	GyroTrac Sensor
Remote Displays

System Compatibility

The TracVision G4 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).

Figure 1-2

TracVision Identifies and Compensates for Vessel Motion

In-motion Tracking

The TracVision G4 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.

54-0147	3

TracVision G4 Technical Manual

Satellite Library

TracVision G4’s default satellite pairs are:

N. America (US DIRECTV):

DSS_101 & DSS_119

Europe: Astra 1 & Hotbird

Table 1-1

Available Satellite Pairs - North America (North American LNB required)

Your TracVision G4 includes a pre-programmed satellite library of North American and European satellite services. When configuring the TracVision G4, 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. 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.

	DSS_101	DSS_119	Echo_61	Echo_110	Echo_119	Echo_148	Expressvu	ExpressTV
DSS_101
DSS_119
Echo_61
Echo_110
Echo_119
Echo_148
Expressvu
ExpressTV

Table 1-2

Available Satellite Pairs - Europe

(European LNB required)

	Astra 1	Astra 2N	Astra 2S Hispasat		Hotbird	Sirius	Thor
Astra 1
Astra 2N
Astra 2S
Hispasat
Hotbird
Sirius
Thor

	4	54-0147

Introduction

1.2TracVision G4 Components

Your TracVision G4 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.

GyroTrac

TracVision G4 includes KVH’s GyroTrac digital gyrocompass for three-axis attitude/heading reference, ensuring superior open water performance in any sea conditions. GyroTrac can also operate as a fully functional, stand-alone heading sensor.

GyroTrac includes the following two components:

Sensor Module

The sensor module houses the system’s compass/yaw sensor, inclinometer, rate gyros, and processing electronics and is waterproof to a depth of one meter.

Advanced Digital Control Unit (ADCU)

The ADCU is the user interface, providing access to the system and its functions through an LCD and three soft keys. The ADCU also serves as the system’s junction box, allowing the system to use ship’s power, interface with the sensor module, supply and receive data to/from the TracVision G4 system, and supply and receive data to/from other shipboard systems.

Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD)

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.

Before you can start watching satellite TV using your TracVision antenna, you will need to activate your IRD. Refer to Section 2.8, “Activating/Programming the IRD” on page 42 for details.

54-0147	5

TracVision G4 Technical Manual

Table 1-3

TracVision G4 Packing List

For lists of items supplied in the kitpacks, see Tables 2-3 and 2-4 on page 10.

1.3Materials Provided With the TracVision G4

Table 1-3 lists the components and materials in the TracVision G4 shipping carton.

Component		KVH Part No.
Antenna Unit		02-0989-01†
		02-0989-02††
Installation Kitpack		72-0099
Data Cable		32-0619-50†
		32-0619-100††
PC Cable		32-0628-06
RF Cable*		32-0417-50
Power Cable		32-0510-50
Ground Cable		32-0583-50
TracVision G4 Technical Manual		54-0147
TracVision G4 User’s Guide		54-0147-01
GyroTrac, which includes:		01-0226-01
	Sensor Module	02-1154
	ADCU	02-0961
	Flush Mount ADCU Panel	20-0667
	Horizontal Sensor Bracket	20-0658
	Vertical Sensor Bracket	20-0666
	Sensor to ADCU Cable	32-0623-30
	Kitpack	72-0095

† North American system †† European system

* Not included with European systems

	6	54-0147

Installation

2 – Installation

This section explains how to install, configure, and test the TracVision G4 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 Mounting the GyroTrac Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

2.4 Mounting the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

2.5 Connecting the IRD(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

2.6 Wiring the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

2.7 Calibrating the Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

2.8 Activating/Programming the IRD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

2.9 Installing Satellites Using the ADCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

2.10Setting the Skew Angle

(European Systems Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

2.11 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

2.12 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

54-0147	7

2.1Planning the Installation

Who Should Install the TracVision G4

KVH recommends that a KVH-authorized technician install the TracVision G4 system. Installers should have experience installing electronic equipment on a vessel.

Materials and Equipment Required for Installation

Before you begin installing the TracVision G4 system, you need to verify that you have all of the following tools and materials:

•Electric drill

•3⁄8" (10 mm) drill bit and 3" (80 mm) hole saw

•Socket wrenches

•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

•A PC with terminal emulation software such as Windows Hyperterminal or PROCOMM.

•RG-6 or RG-11 cable with F-type connectors for extra RF signal 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 Systems
One IRD	1
Two or more IRDs	2*
European Systems
One IRD	1
Two IRDs	2

* Multiswitch needed for three or more IRDs. Follow multiswitch manufacturer’s guidelines.

Installation

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

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.

Table 2-1

Number of RF Cables to Connect to the Antenna

You may want to connect two 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.

54-0147	9

TracVision G4 Technical Manual

Table 2-2

Recommended ADCU-to-Ship’s

Power Cable Specifications

•Power cable to connect the ADCU 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)

Table 2-3

Antenna Unit Kitpack Contents

Table 2-4

GyroTrac Kitpack Contents

Kitpack Contents

The kitpacks packaged with your antenna unit and GyroTrac contain various hardware and other materials that will be needed to complete the TracVision system installation. Ensure that the kitpacks contain all of the items listed in Tables 2-3 and 2-4.

Part	Qty.
1⁄4"-20 x 3" hex head screws	4
1⁄4" flat washers	8
1⁄4"-20 self-locking nuts	4
Plastic screw covers	6
Foam seal	1
Tie-wraps	2
Core clamp (ferrite)	1

Part	Qty.
#8 fiber washers	10
#8 flat washers	10
#8-32 self-locking nuts	5
#10 flat washers	5
#10 lock washers	5
#10-32 Phillips head screws	5
#8 Phillips head screws	5
#8-32 Phillips head screws	5
#8 lock washers	5
#8 Phillips head (black) screws	5
Velcro self-adhesive backings	4
Velcro washers	4
4" tie-wraps	5

	10	54-0147

			Installation
Part	Qty.	Table 2-4
		GyroTrac Kitpack Contents
Tie-wrap screw mount	6
		(Continued)
Terminal strip connectors	5
Sensor module to ADCU power wire ferrite	1
#4-24 thread-forming screws	4

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 (ADCU to Antenna Unit)	50 ft (15 m)†
	100 ft (30 m)††
PC Cable (ADCU to PC)	6 ft (2 m)
RF Cable (Antenna to IRD)*	50 ft (15 m)†
Power Cable (Power to Antenna Unit)	50 ft (15 m)
Sensor to ADCU Cable (GyroTrac)	30 ft (10 m)
IRD Ground to ADCU Ground Cable	50 ft (15 m)
† North American system
†† European system
* Not included with European systems

Table 2-5

Lengths of Provided

Belowdecks Cables

54-0147	11

TracVision G4 Technical Manual

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 15º to 85º look angle to receive satellite signals.

Figure 2-1

Antenna Blockage

Blocked!

TracVision Antenna

Mast

Vessel Platform

•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 antenna unit need not be located exactly on the vessel’s fore-and-aft axis, but its centerline MUST be parallel to it.

•The mounting surface should be flat and strong enough to carry the complete assembly (30 lbs/ 13.6 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).

	12	54-0147

Max 21" cm 54

19.3"
49 cm
9"
(22.9 cm)
4.5"
(11.4 cm)
4.5"
(11.4 cm)
	9"
	(23 cm)
4 x	5/16"
( 8 mm)
19.3"
(49 cm)

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

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 in Appendix B on page 127.

54-0147	13

TracVision G4 Technical Manual

If uncertain of the best location for the sensor module, make a temporary installation and conduct a calibration (as described in

Section 2.7, “Calibrating the Sensor” on page 40). Any necessary adjustments to the sensor location can be made based on the calibration scores.

Choosing the Best Location for the GyroTrac Sensor

•Ideally, the sensor module should be mounted as low as possible in the center of the vessel – but NOT in the bilge.

•The mounting surface should be free of excessive vibration and flexing.

•Maintain at least four feet (1.3 m) separation between the sensor module and any magnetized materials, large ferrous masses, cranes, engines, derricks, other antennas, cables carrying high amperage direct current, or battery banks.

•Take extra care when mounting the sensor module on a steel vessel. Enclose the sensor module in a fiberglass container and use an aluminum, brass, plastic, or wood (NOT steel or iron) platform to position the sensor at least four feet (1.2 m) above and six feet (1.8 m) away from the steel surface.

•Be alert for devices that change their magnetic characteristics when in use, such as CRTs (computer and TV screens), radar magnetrons, electric winches, loudspeakers, windshield wipers, and other devices with DC motors. GyroTrac cannot compensate for changing magnetic fields created by these devices.

•If you need to fabricate custom mounting brackets for the sensor module, they should be made from non-ferrous materials such as wood, brass, aluminum, fiberglass, or plastic. Be sure to use stainless steel bolts or nails.

Choosing the Best Location for the ADCU

•The ADCU should be mounted in a dry location, allowing enough room at the back for connecting system cables.

•The ADCU should be placed so that the LCD display is visible and the buttons are accessible.

•The ADCU is not susceptible to magnetic interference and does not need to be mounted on a level surface.

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2.2Mounting 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 in Appendix B on page 127 or the dimensions shown in Figure 2-3, 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.

FWD

Drill 3/8" (10 mm)

9" (229 mm)

Drill 3/8" (10 mm)

Bolt Hole

Bolt Hole

r

Ca

bl

fo

e

A

t

u

c

o

e

u

t

c

s

s

C

9" (229 mm)

9" (229 mm)

3" (80 mm)

Drill 3/8" (10 mm)		Drill 3/8" (10 mm)
Bolt Hole	9" (229 mm)	Bolt Hole

3.Drill the four 3⁄8" (10 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).

5.Remove the antenna unit from its shipping carton.

Installation

Figure 2-3

Antenna Mounting Holes Layout

Always lift the antenna unit by the gray baseplate and never by the radome or any portion of the antenna assembly. Also 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.

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Figure 2-4

Azimuth Shipping

Restraint Removal

The 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 5.10, “Preparing for Shipment” on page 118 for instructions on preparing for shipment.

Figure 2-5

Baseplate/Foam Seal Orientation

(Bottom View)

6.Remove and save the three screws securing the radome to the baseplate. Carefully lift the radome straight up until clear of the antenna assembly and set it 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.

7.Remove the foam shipping restraint from the antenna unit.

8.Using a 10 mm wrench, remove the two azimuth shipping restraint bolts, washers, and spacers from the antenna unit, as shown in Figure 2-4.

Bolt

Washer

Spacer

9.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. Align the seal with the vessel’s centerline and the narrow end pointing toward the bow (see Figure 2-5). Scribe a line all around the seal.

Foam Seal

Power

RF1

Bow

RF2

Data

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

11.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 bottom. Ensure the narrow end points toward the bow.

12.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) using 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 or RF2). Do NOT use teflon gel on the cable fittings as it reduces signal strength at higher frequencies.

Installation

Figure 2-6

Baseplate “Forward” Arrow

Figure 2-7

Baseplate Connector Assignments

(Bottom View)

Single IRD

Installation

Power

RF1

RF2

Data

Second IRD

Installation

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TracVision G4 Technical Manual

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

Figure 2-8

Bolting the Antenna Unit to the Deck (Side View)

13.Place the antenna baseplate over the holes drilled in the foundation, ensuring the “Forward” label (shown in Figure 2-6) points toward the bow.

14.At each of the four baseplate mounting holes, place a 1⁄4" flat washer on a 1⁄4"-20 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.

Bolt

Flat Washer

Antenna Unit Base

Foam Seal

Deck

Flat Washer

Lock Nut

15.Apply a 1⁄4" flat washer and 1⁄4"-20 lock nut from below, as shown in Figure 2-8.

16.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.

17.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 system:

Place the radome over the baseplate. Align the three radome screw holes with the baseplate nut holders, insert the #10-24 screws and tighten. Install a protective plastic screw cap from the kitpack over each screw.

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2.3Mounting the GyroTrac Sensor

GyroTrac comes with the following two mounting brackets:

Horizontal Sensor Bracket

Attaches directly to the sensor module housing and must be used in all mounting arrangements

Vertical Sensor Bracket

For mounting the sensor to a vertical surface

These two brackets should enable you to place the sensor module as level as possible. If you are unable to place the sensor module in a level arrangement, refer to “Entering Gyro Offset Values” on page 75 to compensate for the offset.

To mount the GyroTrac sensor, choose either of the following options:

Option 1 - Mounting the Sensor to a Horizontal Surface

Option 2 - Mounting the Sensor to a Vertical Surface

Installation

Figure 2-9

Horizontal Sensor Bracket

Figure 2-10

Vertical Sensor Bracket

The following sections describe how to mount the sensor for both of these options.

Be sure to follow the guidelines in

“Choosing the Best Location for the GyroTrac Sensor” on page 14.

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TracVision G4 Technical Manual

Option 1 - Mounting the Sensor to a Horizontal Surface

1.Choose a mounting location based upon the guidelines in “Choosing the Best Location for the GyroTrac Sensor” on page 14.

2.Orient the sensor so that the forward reference on the end cap is pointed forward and is parallel to the vessel’s fore-and-aft axis (to ±5°). The proper orientation is illustrated in Figure 2-11.

Figure 2-11

Proper Orientation of

the Sensor Module

TOWARD	BOW

3.Position the horizontal sensor bracket so that the sensor module will be properly oriented when placed in the bracket.

4.Using the holes in the bracket feet as a template, mark locations for the four mounting screws. Center punch and drill the four holes with a 1⁄8" (3.5 mm) bit. Reposition the bracket over the mounting holes.

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5.Insert #8 fiber washers into the mounting bracket’s four mounting holes on both sides of the mounting bracket (see Figure 2-12).

T-nuts contained within sensor housing track

Flat washer, lock washer, and #10 screw

#8 screw, flat washer, and 2 fiber washers

6.Insert #8 flat washers and #8 Phillips screws into the mounting bracket’s four mounting holes from above. Secure the bracket to the mounting surface.

7.Place the sensor module in the bracket with the proper orientation (up/forward).

8.Thread #10-32 screws through lock washers, flat washers, and bracket, and then into the captive extrusion T-nuts within the sensor module housing, as shown in Figure 2-12.

Installation

Figure 2-12

Securing the Sensor Module and

the Horizontal Sensor Bracket

Should you ever need to replace the #10-32 screws used to secure the housing to the bracket, the screws must be no longer than 3⁄8" (10 mm) to avoid damaging the housing.

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TracVision G4 Technical Manual

Option 2 - Mounting the Sensor to a Vertical Surface

1.Choose a mounting location based upon the guidelines in “Choosing the Best Location for the GyroTrac Sensor” on page 14.

2.The module must be oriented so that the forward reference on the end cap is pointed forward and parallel to the vessel’s fore-and-aft axis (see Figure 2-11 on page 20). The brackets are designed so that the sensor module may be mounted perpendicular or parallel to the mounting surface, as pictured in Figure 2-13.

Figure 2-13

Bracket Orientations

Vessel

Centerline

OR

Vessel

Centerline

3.The module must be level with the vessel’s deck. You may fine-tune this placement using the ADCU’s pitch and roll data. Adjust the brackets so that the pitch and roll are 0 (zero) when the vessel is docked and under normal load.

4.When choosing a location for the unit, make certain that there is sufficient overhead clearance for both brackets and the sensor module.

5.Using the holes in the vertical sensor bracket as a template, mark locations for the four mounting screws. Center punch and drill the four holes with a 1⁄8" (3.5 mm) bit.

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6.Secure the vertical sensor bracket to the mounting surface with #8 Phillips screws and flat washers (see Figure 2-14).

#8 screw and washer

7.Position the horizontal sensor bracket over the mounting holes in the vertical sensor bracket, as shown in Figure 2-13.

8.Insert fiber washers into both sides of the mounting brackets, as shown in Figure 2-15.

#8 Pan Head Screw

Horizontal

Bracket

#8 Flat Washer Fiber Washer

	#8 Self-locking Nut	Vertical
		Bracket

9.Insert #8 flat washers and #8-32 Phillips screws into the horizontal bracket’s mounting holes from above and through the vertical bracket. Secure in place with #8 self-locking nuts and flat washers.

10.Place the sensor module in the horizontal bracket with the proper orientation (up/forward).

11.Thread #10-32 machine screws through lock washers, flat washers, and bracket, and then into the captive extrusion T-nuts within the sensor module housing, as shown in Figure 2-12.

Installation

If you do not use the supplied #8 screws, be sure to use equivalent hardware that ensures secure mounting and minimum vibration.

Figure 2-14

Mounting the Vertical

Sensor Bracket

Figure 2-15

Securing the Horizontal Bracket to the Vertical Bracket

Should you ever need to replace the #10-32 screws used to secure the housing to the bracket, the screws must be no longer than 3⁄8" (10 mm) to avoid damaging the housing.

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TracVision G4 Technical Manual

2.4Mounting the ADCU

Mount the ADCU using either of the following options:

Option 1 - Velcro Fastening on a Horizontal Surface

Option 2 - Flush-mounting

When choosing a location, take into account the space required to route, position, and strain-relieve all cables that will be attached to the back of the ADCU. Directions for proper wiring are presented in

Section 2.6, “Wiring the ADCU” on page 29.

Figure 2-16

Mounting the ADCU with Velcro Attachments

The following sections describe how to mount the sensor for both of these options.

Option 1 - Velcro Fastening on a Horizontal Surface

1.Choose a location based upon the guidelines in “Choosing the Best Location for the ADCU” on page 14.

2.Remove the four squares of Velcro fabric from the kitpack. Clean the bottom of the housing with a mild detergent and water to remove oils, etc. Peel the protective backing from the squares and apply them to the bottom of the housing at each of the four corners (see Figure 2-16).

Fabric Strips

Hook Disks

3.Position the four Velcro hook disks where the ADCU will be mounted. Drill screw holes for the disks and secure in place with the #4-24 screws supplied in the kitpack.

4.Press the ADCU firmly into place so that the loop material engages the hook disks.

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Installation

Option 2 - Flush-mounting

1.Choose a location based upon the guidelines in “Choosing the Best Location for the ADCU” on page 14.

2.A template has been provided in Appendix C on page 129 as a guide to mark and cut the proper hole for the flush mount bracket. Cut the hole and make certain the bracket and ADCU will fit easily.

3.Attach the flush mount bracket to the ADCU by loosening the two screws on the underside of the ADCU. Slide the flush mount bracket backward over the ADCU until the two notches meet the screws as shown in Figure 2-17.

Figure 2-17

Securing the ADCU to the

Flush Mount Bracket

4.Tighten the screws to secure the ADCU to the bracket.

5.After completing the wiring described in

Section 2.6, “Wiring the ADCU,” insert the ADCU and bracket into the hole and secure the unit to the mounting surface with the #8 (black) screws and #8 washers supplied in the kitpack.

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