KVH Industries TracVision G8 User Manual
owner’s
manual
•
Guide to Operation
•
Guide to Technical Information
A Guide to TracVision
®
G8
TVG8_OM_BinderCover_11.05
*
*
Notes
* Press any button to return.
** If GPS is providing valid position
data to the antenna, manual entry
of latitude/longitude is not available.
*
*
*
*
**
*
2005, KVH Industries, Inc.
TracVision G8
Owner’s Manual
This manual provides detailed instructions on the proper
operation, installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and
maintenance of the KVH TracVision G8 satellite TV system. For
operation instructions, refer to the Guide to Operation. For
installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance
instructions, refer to the Guide to Technical Information.
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: +1 401 847-3327 Tel: +45 45 160 180
Fax: +1 401 849-0045 Fax: +45 45 160 181
E-mail: info@kvh.com E-mail: info@kvh.dk
Internet: www.kvh.com Internet: www.kvh.com
Please e-mail your comments about this manual to
manuals@kvh.com. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
KVH Part # 54-0198 Rev. D
© 2005 KVH Industries, Inc., All rights reserved.
TracVision G8 Serial Number
This serial number will be required
for all troubleshooting or service
calls made regarding this product.
Welcome to TracVision G8
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 trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.
DVB
®
(Digital Video Broadcasting) is a registered trademark of the DVB Project.
DIRECTV
®
is a registered trademark of DIRECTV, Inc.
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.
54-0198
i
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Guide to Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2 Receiving Satellite Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3 Turning On the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
4 Changing Channels and Switching to the Second Satellite . . . . .6
5 Watching Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
6 Using the MCU Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Guide to Technical Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
1.1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
1.2 System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
1.3 Materials Provided with the TracVision G8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
2.1 Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
2.2 Mounting the TracVision Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
2.3 Connecting the Receiver(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
2.4 Wiring the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
2.5 Mounting the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
2.6 Activating/Programming the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
2.7 Installing Satellites Using the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
2.8 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
2.9 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
3 Using the MCU Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
3.1 Startup and Self-test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
3.2 Main Display and Accessing the Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
3.3 Installing Satellites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
3.4 Restarting the Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
3.5 Operations Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual
4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
4.1 Troubleshooting Matrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
4.2 Causes and Remedies for Common
Operational Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
4.3 Receiver Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
4.4 Antenna Gyro and LNB Faults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
4.5 Computer Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
4.6 Maintenance Port Antenna Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
5 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
5.1 Warranty/Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
5.2 Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
5.3 TracVision G8 Field Replaceable Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
5.4 Accessing Antenna Components Through the Hatch . . . . . . .98
5.5 Replacing the PCB Module Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
5.6 Replacing the PCB Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
5.7 Replacing the RF PCB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
5.8 Replacing the Internal Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
5.9 Replacing the Azimuth Gyro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
5.10 Replacing the Elevation Gyro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
5.11 Replacing the Azimuth Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
5.12 Replacing the Azimuth Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
5.13 Replacing the Elevation Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
5.14 Replacing the Elevation Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
5.15 Replacing the Skew Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
5.16 Replacing the Skew Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
5.17 Replacing the LNB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
5.18 Replacing the LNB/Feed Tube Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
5.19 Preparing for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121
A System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123
B MCU Flush Mount Panel Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
C Startup Data Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
D Maintenance Port Antenna Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
Index
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Table of Contents
Guide to Operation
54-0198
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Contents
1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2 Receiving Satellite Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3 Turning On the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
4 Changing Channels and Switching to the Second Satellite . . . . . . . . . .6
5 Watching Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
6 Using the MCU Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Guide to Operation
This guide explains everything you need to know to operate your
TracVision G8 system. For detailed installation, configuration,
troubleshooting, and maintenance information, please refer to the
Guide
to Technical Information
beginning on page 11.
Guide to Operation
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1 System Overview
A complete satellite TV system, illustrated in Figure 1, includes
the TracVision G8 antenna unit connected to the Master Control
Unit (MCU), a satellite TV receiver (integrated receiver/decoder,
or IRD), and a television set.
Figure 1
TracVision G8 System Diagram
Satellite Compatibility
The TracVision G8 is fully compatible with Digital Video
Broadcasting (DVB
®
) satellites, as well as DIRECTV®‘s Digital
Satellite Service (DSS) satellites.
In-motion Tracking
The TracVision G8 uses a state-of-the-art actively stabilized
antenna system. The antenna’s built-in global positioning system
(GPS) allows the system to calculate the precise direction to the
satellite from your vessel’s current location, ensuring the shortest
possible satellite acquisition time. Once the satellite is acquired,
the antenna gyros continuously measure the motion of your
vessel and send commands to the antenna motors to keep the
antenna pointed at the satellite at all times.
TracVision G8 systems equipped
with linear quad LNBs (used in
Mexico and Europe) can be
connected to four receivers using
four RF cables.
Master Control
PC Diagnostics
TracVision G8 Antenna
9-36 VDC
90 Watts
Unit (MCU)
Power/Data
RF
RF
Options Purchased Separately
Receiver 1
Receiver 2
TV 1
TV 2
TracVision
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Operation
Satellite Library
Your TracVision G8 includes a pre-programmed library of TV
satellites from around the world. If the satellite service you wish
to receive is not already in the satellite library, an authorized
technician can add two additional satellites of your choice to the
library.
System Components
Your TracVision G8 system includes the following components:
Antenna Unit
The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning mechanism, low
noise block converter (LNB), GPS, and three-axis sensor within a
molded ABS radome. Systems equipped with a linear quad LNB
(used in Europe, Australia, and Mexico) include a skew control
mechanism that automatically adjusts the LNB’s skew to account
for regional changes and different satellite services. Power, signal,
and control cabling from belowdecks units are connected to the
antenna at the rear of the baseplate.
Master Control Unit (MCU)
The MCU is the user interface, providing access to the system
and its functions through an LCD and three buttons. The MCU
also serves as the system’s junction box, allowing the system to
use ship’s power and supply and receive data to/from the
TracVision G8. The MCU can accept any power input between
9 and 36 volts DC; its power supply provides power to the
antenna and galvanically isolates the TracVision G8 system.
Satellite TV Receiver (IRD) – Sold Separately
The receiver (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 receiver for complete
operating instructions.
Guide to Operation
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2 Receiving Satellite Signals
For TracVision G8 to receive satellite TV signals, the antenna
must have a clear line of sight to the satellite. If you only receive
intermittent signals or the antenna cannot find the satellite, check
around your vessel for any objects that could be blocking the
signal, such as other vessels, trees, buildings, other onboard
equipment, etc.
Figure 2
Satellite Blockage
You must also be located within the selected satellite’s coverage
area in order to receive its signal. Refer to your satellite television
service manual to check the viable coverage area. For your
convenience, KVH provides links to several web sites that offer satellite
coverage information. Simply go to our web site at: www.kvh.com/
footprint.
TracVision
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Operation
The satellite configuration on
your receiver must match the
satellite setting on the
TracVision G8 system.
Satellite A on the TracVision G8
must be the same satellite as
receiver Alternative 1 (or A, based
on your receiver) and must be
assigned the receiver DiSEqC 1
setting.*
Satellite B on the TracVision G8
must be the same satellite as
receiver Alternative 2 (or B, based
on your receiver) and must be
assigned the receiver DiSEqC 2
setting.*
Refer to your receiver user manual
for complete instructions for your
receiver.
*DiSEqC settings only apply to
European systems and DIRECTV
DSS Plus
™
receivers.
3 Turning On the System
To use the TracVision G8 system, follow the steps below. To
minimize the time it takes the antenna to acquire the satellite, do not
change the channel during this process.
1. Turn on the receiver and the television. (Refer to your
receiver user’s manual for complete operating
instructions for the receiver.)
2. Apply power to the TracVision G8 antenna.
3. Minimize turning the vessel for two minutes after turning
on the antenna to allow the antenna gyros to initialize
properly.
4 Changing Channels and
Switching to the Second Satellite
TracVision G8 can have a pair of satellites installed, either one of
which can be the active satellite selection. There are several
methods of selecting whether your TracVision G8 will track
Satellite A or Satellite B based upon your location, type of install,
receiver, and selected satellite service.
Europe and Australia
If you are not using a multiswitch, switching from one satellite to
the other is as easy as changing the channel using the receiver’s
remote control. TracVision G8 will automatically switch between
the two satellites as necessary to receive your selected channel. If
you are using a multiswitch, however, you will need to use the
MCU switching option described in “Switching Satellites Using the
MCU” on page 7.
North America
DIRECTV Subscribers
DIRECTV subscribers in certain regions of the United States will
require a DSS Plus
™
receiver to receive broadcasts from multiple
satellites. If connected to the antenna’s RF1 connector, the DSS
Plus receiver allows you to switch channels using the receiver’s
remote control. If you are a DIRECTV subscriber, but do not have
a DSS Plus receiver, or you are using a multiswitch, use the MCU
switching option described in “Switching Satellites Using the
MCU” on page 7.
Guide to Operation
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DISH Network™ (EchoStar) and ExpressVu Satellite Subscribers
DISH Network and ExpressVu subscribers will need to use the
MCU switching option, as described in “Switching Satellites Using
the MCU.”
Latin America
In Latin America, including Mexico, satellite switching is
unnecessary because programming is broadcast from a single
satellite.
Switching Satellites Using the MCU
If you’re unable to switch between satellites using the receiver’s
remote control, use the MCU front panel buttons to select
between Satellite A and Satellite B. Press the left button to select
Satellite A and the right button to select Satellite B.
Figure 3
Switching Satellites Using the MCU
Europe only:
Using the MCU to switch between
satellites disables the system’s
DiSEqC monitoring. You will not be
able to use the receiver/remote to
switch between satellites unless the
system is restarted.
Tracking <SAT NAME>
Sat A Menu Sat B
Track Installed
Satellite A
Track Installed
Satellite B
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Operation
5 Watching Television
TracVision G8 will receive satellite TV signals whether your
vessel is in motion or at rest.
Cable Unwrap
If your vessel makes several consecutive circles in the same
direction, the antenna will rotate 720° before reaching the end of
its internal cable. If it does so, the system automatically unwraps
the cable by quickly rotating the dish in the opposite direction.
During this time, your TV picture will freeze momentarily.
Fine-Tuning
You might hear slight mechanical sounds from the antenna, as
the antenna moves continually in a circular motion to sweep
across the satellite’s peak signal. The signal strength is then fed
back to the control circuits to keep pointed in the direction of the
strongest signal.
Sleep Mode
When the vessel has come to a stop and holds its position for one
minute (e.g., at a dock), the antenna enters Sleep Mode, which
locks the antenna in place to conserve power. As soon as the
vessel moves beyond a 1° - 2° window, or the RF level changes
significantly, Sleep Mode automatically turns off and the system
begins tracking the satellite again (or enters Search mode to find
the satellite).
If you prefer, you may disable the
Sleep Mode function. Refer to
“Turning Sleep Mode On/Off” on
page 69
for details.
Guide to Operation
54-0198
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6 Using the MCU Interface
All TracVision G8 operations are controlled and monitored using
the MCU. An LCD display shows configuration data and three
buttons enable you to perform menu-driven tasks.
Figure 4
MCU Front Panel
During the TracVision G8 installation process, the satellite
selections should have been configured to your specifications as
detailed in the Guide to Technical Information. Once the system is
installed and functioning properly, the system will function
automatically.
However, there may be instances in which you need to access
certain settings or diagnostic tools via the MCU interface. To
assist you, KVH has provided the following information
resources:
Quick Reference Guide:
The quick reference guide on the inside front cover of this
manual illustrates the main display and the overall menu
structure, allowing you to easily and quickly navigate
among the MCU menus.
Section 3 in the Guide to Technical Information:
Section 3, “Using the MCU Interface,” on page 57 of the
Guide to Technical Information provides a detailed
explanation of every menu option and system
configuration setting. These menus should, for the most
part, be accessed by authorized technicians. The following
are the most commonly used menu functions:
Menu Function Purpose See Page:
Install Satellite Install a satellite to track 62
Set Sleep On/Off Turn Sleep Mode on or off 69
Set Brightness Adjust the MCU display’s brightness 81
LCD Display
Buttons
Tracking <SAT NAME>
Sat A Menu Sat B
Guide to Technical Information
54-0198
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Contents
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
3 Using the MCU Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
5 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121
Guide to Technical
Information
This guide explains how to install, troubleshoot, and maintain the
TracVision G8 system. For complete operating instructions, please refer
to the
Guide to Operation
at the front of this manual.
Introduction
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1 – Introduction
This section provides a basic overview of the TracVision G8 system. It
explains how the system works and describes the function of each
component.
Contents
1.1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
1.2 System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
1.3 Materials Provided with the TracVision G8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Introduction
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1.1 System Overview
A complete satellite TV system, illustrated in Figure 1-1, includes
the TracVision G8 antenna unit connected to the Master Control
Unit (MCU), a satellite TV receiver (integrated receiver/decoder,
or IRD), and a television set. While all basic programming and
first-level diagnostic functions are available through the MCU, a
laptop computer can be used to conduct advanced diagnostics.
System specifications are provided in Appendix A on page 123.
Figure 1-1
TracVision G8 System Diagram
Satellite Compatibility
The TracVision G8 satellite antenna is fully compatible with
Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) satellites, as well as
DIRECTV‘s Digital Satellite Service (DSS) satellites.
In-motion Tracking
The TracVision G8 uses a state-of-the-art actively stabilized
antenna system. The antenna’s built-in global positioning system
(GPS) allows the system to calculate the precise azimuth and
elevation to the satellite from your vessel’s current location,
ensuring the shortest possible satellite acquisition time. Once the
satellite is acquired, the antenna gyros continuously measure the
heading, pitch, and roll of your vessel and send commands to the
antenna motors to keep the antenna pointed at the satellite at all
times.
TracVision G8 systems equipped
with linear quad LNBs (used in
Mexico and Europe) can be
connected to four receivers using
four RF cables.
Master Control
Unit (MCU)
PC Diagnostics
TracVision G8 Antenna
9-36 VDC
90 Watts
Power/Data
RF
RF
Options Purchased Separately
Receiver 1
Receiver 2
TV 1
TV 2
TracVision
Satellite Library
Your TracVision G8 includes a pre-programmed library of TV
satellites from around the world. When configuring the
TracVision G8, you may choose a pair of satellites from the
library to be active in the system and with your receiver. 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.
North America
Any two of the North American satellites listed below can be
paired together, as long as the satellites are within range of the
antenna (standard circular dual LNB required):
Europe
Any two of the European satellites listed below can be paired
together, as long as the satellites are within range of the antenna
(linear quad LNB/feed tube assembly required):
Mexico
In Mexico, select the satellite listed below for Sky Mexico service
(linear quad LNB/feed tube assembly required).
• PAS_9
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Technical Information
TracVision G8’s default satellite
pairs are:
N. America (US DIRECTV):
DSS_101 & DSS_119
Europe:
ASTRA1 & HOTBIRDWB
Mexico (Sky Mexico):
PAS_9 & NONE
L. America (DIRECTV LA):
GALAXY3CN & NONE
• Astra1 • Sirius
• Astra2N
•Thor
• Astra2S • Arabsat
• Hispasat • Nilesat
• HotbirdWB • Turksat
• Hotbird • Eutel_W3A
• DSS_72 • Echo_110
• DSS_101
• Echo_119
• DSS_110 • Echo_148
• DSS_119 • Expressvu
• Echo_61 • ExpressTV
Introduction
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Latin America
In Latin America, choose one of the satellites listed below for
DIRECTV Latin America (DLA) service (DLA circular dual LNB
required).
Australia
In Australia, you can pair together the two satellites listed below
(Linear quad LNB/feed tube assembly required).
1.2 System Components
Your TracVision G8 system includes the following components:
Antenna Unit
The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning mechanism, low
noise block converter (LNB), GPS, and three-axis sensor within a
molded ABS radome. Systems equipped with the linear quad
LNB include a skew control mechanism that automatically
adjusts the LNB’s skew to account for regional changes and
different satellite services. Power, signal, and control cabling from
belowdecks units are connected to the antenna at the rear of the
baseplate.
Master Control Unit (MCU)
The MCU is the user interface, providing access to the system
and its functions through an LCD and three buttons. The MCU
also serves as the system’s junction box, allowing the system to
use ship’s power, and supply and receive data to/from the
TracVision G8. The MCU can accept any power input between
9 and 36 volts DC; its power supply provides power to the
antenna and galvanically isolates the TracVision G8 system.
Satellite TV Receiver (IRD)
– Sold Separately
The receiver (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 receiver for complete
operating instructions.
Before you can start watching
satellite TV using your TracVision
antenna, you will need to activate
your receiver. Refer to
Section 2.6,
“Activating/Programming the
Receiver,” on page 40
for details.
• Galaxy3CN • Galaxy3CS
• Optus_B1 • Optus_B3
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Technical Information
1.3 Materials Provided with the
TracVision G8
Table 1-2 lists the components and materials in the TracVision G8
shipping carton.
Table 1-2
TracVision G8 Packing List
Component KVH Part No.
Antenna unit 02-1262-01
†
02-1262-03
††
02-1262-04
†††
02-1262-05
††††
Master control unit (MCU) 02-1265
Installation kitpack 72-0127
Data/power cable, 100 ft. (30 m) 32-0744-0100
TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual
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Standard circular dual LNB (configured for North America)
††
DLA circular dual LNB (configured for DIRECTV Latin America)
†††
Linear quad LNB (configured for Europe)
††††
Linear quad LNB (configured for Sky Mexico)
For a list of items supplied in the
kitpack, see Table 2-3 on page 22.
Installation
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2 – Installation
This section explains how to install, configure, and test the
TracVision G8 system. Follow the simple procedures in this section
sequentially to ensure a safe and effective installation.
Contents
2.1 Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
2.2 Mounting the TracVision Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
2.3 Connecting the Receiver(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
2.4 Wiring the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
2.5 Mounting the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
2.6 Activating/Programming the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
2.7 Installing Satellites Using the MCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
2.8 Checking Out the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
2.9 Changing Geographic Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Installation
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2.1 Planning the Installation
Who Should Install the TracVision G8?
KVH recommends that a KVH-authorized technician install the
TracVision G8 system. Installers should have experience
installing electronic equipment on a vessel.
Materials and Equipment Required for Installation
Before you begin installing the TracVision G8 system, you need to
verify that you have all of the following tools and materials:
• Electric drill and
1
⁄2" (13 mm) drill bit
• 17 mm socket wrench and
9
⁄16" open-end wrench
• Flat head and Phillips screwdrivers
• Light hammer; center punch; tape; scriber/pencil
• Wire strippers
• A PC with KVH Flash Update Wizard or Windows
HyperTerminal installed
• Quick-tripping circuit breaker or fuse rated for 15 amps
• RG-11 or RG-6 cable(s) with F-type connectors (refer to
Table 2-1 to determine the number of RF cables needed)
Table 2-1
Number of RF Cables to Connect to the Antenna
Connecting to: # RF Cables
System with Circular Dual LNB
One receiver 1
Two receivers 2
Two or more receivers 2*
System with Linear Quad LNB
One receiver 1
Two receivers 2
Three receivers 3
Four receivers 4
More than four receivers 4*
* Multiswitch required. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
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 a receiver is added (or
the system is converted from North
American to European use) in the
future, no additional RF cables will
need to be run.
Plan the entire installation before
proceeding! Take into account
antenna unit placement, cable
running distances between units,
and accessibility to the equipment
after installation.
If you are prewiring the system,
be sure to route the N-type
connector end of the data/power
cable to the antenna location and
the F-type connector end to the
belowdecks MCU (see Figure 2-7
on page 28).
• Power cable to connect the MCU to ship’s power
(Table 2-2 provides proper gauge and length specifications
for a 12V supply. The system will not work if the MCU
receives less than 9V).
Table 2-2
Recommended Power Cable Specifications
Cable Length Cable Gauge
to 40 ft (12 m) 12 AWG (1.5 mm2)
up to 70 ft (21 m) 10 AWG (2.5 mm2)
Kitpack Contents
The kitpack packaged with your system contains hardware and
other materials that will be needed to complete the installation.
Ensure that the kitpack contains all of the items listed below.
Table 2-3
Kitpack Contents
Part Part # Qty.
M10 x 1.5 x 50 mm hex head bolts 14-0342-50 4
M10 flat washers 14-0344-10 4
M10 lock washers 14-0343-10 4
M4 x 0.7 x 8 mm pan-head Phillips screws 14-0075-08 6
Plastic screw covers 19-0088 8
Rear logo plate 20-0885-02 1
Power connector plug 23-0497-02 1
Receiver ground cable 32-0583-50 1
PC cable
(for diagnostics)
32-0628-06 1
PC cable gender changer 23-0517-09 1
Flush mount MCU bracket 20-0667 1
Velcro self-adhesive backings 19-0146 4
Velcro washers 19-0147 4
#4-24 thread-forming screws 14-0150-06 4
Tie-wraps 22-0006 5
#8 type A screws 14-0047-08 4
#8 lock washers 14-0038 4
#6-32 x 1⁄2" pan head screws 14-0029-08 2
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Technical Information
Table 2-3
Kitpack Contents (continued)
Part Part # Qty.
#6 flat washers 14-0024 2
Small Ferrite Coil 29-0088 1
Large Ferrite Coil 29-0090 1
F-type connector 23-0213 1
Choosing Component Locations
When choosing component locations, first keep in mind
accessibility and cable lengths between units. For example, since
the data/power cable is 100 ft (30 m) long, the MCU must be
located within 100 ft (30 m) of the antenna. The major
considerations in locating system components are noted below.
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
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
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Mast
Blocked!
TracVision Antenna
Vessel Platform
• To minimize tracking errors, place the antenna unit as
close as possible to the intersection of the vessel’s foreand-aft centerline and midships. In addition, do not
mount the antenna too high off the water (limit height
above the waterline to less than half the vessel length).
• The mounting surface should be flat and strong enough to
carry the complete assembly (85 lbs/ 38.6 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). Also be sure to leave
enough space outside the access hatch to allow a
technician to remove the hatch screws and perform
maintenance through the hatch.
• Maintain at least four feet (1.3 m) separation between the
antenna 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 antenna on a steel
vessel; use an aluminum, brass, plastic, or wood (NOT
steel or iron) platform to position the antenna 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. The antenna’s internal sensor cannot
compensate for changing magnetic fields created by these
devices.
Radar Concerns
The TracVision antenna must be kept out of line with nearby
radars, as their energy levels (from both the main beam and its
side lobes) may overload the antenna’s front-end 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 TracVision dome (i.e., at least 8 to 10 feet
(2.4 to 3 meters)), the TracVision antenna can be placed below the
radar as there will be little chance of signal blockage.
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Technical Information
Figure 2-2
Antenna Unit Dimensions
Choosing the Best Location for the MCU
• The MCU should be mounted in a dry location, allowing
enough room at the back for connecting system cables.
Also be sure to mount the MCU in a well-ventilated area
to prevent overheating, which will damage the system.
• The MCU should be placed so that the LCD display is
visible and the buttons are accessible to the user.
• The MCU is not susceptible to magnetic interference and
does not need to be mounted on a level surface.
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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.
Four small holes have been drilled
into the bottom of the baseplate to
ensure that any moisture that
enters the antenna unit is able to
drain. Be sure these drain holes do
not become blocked.
38.86"
(987 mm)
4x .50"
(4x 13 mm)
17"
(432 mm)
35"
( 889 mm)
12"
(305 mm)
6"
(152 mm)
Access Hatch
6"
(152 mm)
(305 mm)
FWD
12"
2.2 Mounting the TracVision
Antenna
To mount the antenna to the vessel, follow the steps below.
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 23.
2. Using the template provided at the back of this manual or
the dimensions shown in Figure 2-3, lay out the four
mounting bolt holes. Make certain that the “Forward”
arrow is parallel with the vessel’s centerline and pointed
toward the bow.
Figure 2-3
Antenna Mounting Holes Layout
3. Drill the four 1⁄2" (13 mm) bolt holes following the layout
in Step 2.
4. If mounting the antenna on a deck:
Mark a location aft of the antenna for the cable access
hole. The hole must be large enough to accommodate the
data/power cable and all required RF cables (see Table 2-1
on page 21 to determine the number of RF cables required). Cut
out the access hole and smooth the edges of the hole to
protect the cables.
5. Remove the antenna unit from its shipping carton.
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A full-size template of the baseplate
mounting holes has been provided
at the back of this manual.
For the antenna to work properly,
the “Forward” arrow MUST be
parallel with the vessel’s centerline
and pointed toward the bow.
Baseplate Footprint
17"
( 432 mm)
FWD
4 x 0.5"
(4 x 13 mm)
12"
(305 mm)
6"
(152 mm)
12"
(305 mm)
6"
(152 mm)
6. Remove the eight 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, secure it with a lanyard to
prevent it from falling overboard.
7. Remove the tie-wrap securing the MCU/kitpack box to
the antenna baseplate. Remove the box.
Figure 2-4
MCU/Kitpack Box
8. Inspect the antenna unit for any signs of shipping
damage.
9. Position the baseplate assembly in place over the
mounting holes, with the baseplate’s connectors (shown
in Figure 2-5) facing the stern. Ensure that all mounting
holes line up and make any necessary adjustments.
Figure 2-5
Location of Baseplate Connectors
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Tie-wrap
Connectors
Figure 2-6
Baseplate Connectors
10. Connect the N-type connector end of the data/power
cable to the baseplate, as shown in Figures 2-7 and 2-8.
Figure 2-7
Data/power Cable Connectors
Figure 2-8
Connecting the Data/Power Cable
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TracVision G8 Owner’s Manual - Guide to Technical Information
RF3
RF1
RF2
RF4
Data/Power
Be sure to properly align the
data/power cable with the
baseplate connector before
tightening. Connecting the cable at
an angle may damage the cable’s
center tines.
To MCU To Antenna
F-type Connector N-type Connector
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