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MICOM RM500/RM500R
500W HF-SSB Rack-Mount Continuous
Duty Transceivers
Owner’s Guide
Proprietary Notice
The information contained in this document is proprietary to Elbit Systems Ltd.
Use or transfer of this document or the information contained herein without the
express written consent of Elbit Systems Ltd. is prohibited.
Finders of this document are required to forward it to the nearest police station.
20720943300 REV. A 15 SEPTEMBER 2011
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Unclassified
MICOM RM500/RM500R
500W HF-SSB Rack-Mount Continuous
Duty Transceivers
Owner’s Guide
Proprietary Notice
The information contained in this document is proprietary to Elbit Systems Ltd.
Use or transfer of this document or the information contained herein without the
express written consent of Elbit Systems Ltd. is prohibited.
Finders of this document are required to forward it to the nearest police station.
Produced by Elbit Systems Customer Training and Knowledge Services.
© All Rights Reserved, Elbit Systems Ltd.
20720943300 REV. A 15 SEPTEMBER 2011
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INSERT LATEST CHANGED PAGES. DESTROY SUPERSEDED PAGES.
LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES
NOTE: The portion of text affected by changes is indicated by a vertical line in the outer page margins.
Changes to illustrations are indicated by miniature pointing hands, shading, or legend.
Dates of issue for original and changed pages are:
Original . . . 0 . . . 15 September 2011
TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES IN THIS PUBLICATION IS 34 CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING:
Page *Change
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Para. Title Page
How to Use This Manual ........................................................................................................................ iii
List of Abbreviations .............................................................................................................................. iv
Foreword .................................................................................................................................................. v
CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 General Description ...................................................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Equipment Versions ...................................................................................................... 1-3
1.4 Main Features ............................................................................................................... 1-3
1.4.1 Voice that's loud & clear ............................................................................................... 1-3
1.4.2 User-Friendly ................................................................................................................ 1-3
1.4.3 Years of trouble-free communications.......................................................................... 1-4
1.4.4 Comprehensive communication and networking services ............................................ 1-4
1.4.5 A proven family of radio products ................................................................................ 1-4
1.5 Major Accessories and Options .................................................................................... 1-5
1.6 Performance Specifications .......................................................................................... 1-5
1.6.1 Main Technical Characteristics .................................................................................... 1-5
1.6.2 Connector Data ............................................................................................................. 1-6
1.7 RM500/RM500R Main Options ................................................................................. 1-10
1.7.1 Main Ordering Options ............................................................................................... 1-10
CHAPTER 2 - HMI
2.1 Familiarization with Equipment ................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 RM500 Front Panel ....................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 RM500R Front Panel .................................................................................................... 2-3
2.4 RM500/RM500R Rear Panel ........................................................................................ 2-4
CHAPTER 3 - INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
3.1 Installation Planning Guidelines ................................................................................... 3-2
3.2 Grounding ..................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.3 Power Requirements ..................................................................................................... 3-2
3.4 Cooling .......................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.5 Installation Data ............................................................................................................ 3-2
3.6 Antenna System ............................................................................................................ 3-3
3.6.1 Antenna Feed System ................................................................................................... 3-3
3.7 Preparations for Installation .......................................................................................... 3-3
3.7.1 Installation Procedure – Basic Radio ............................................................................ 3-4
3.8 Installation Procedure – Radio with PPS Option .......................................................... 3-5
3.8.1 PPS Functions ............................................................................................................... 3-5
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Para. Title Page
CHAPTER 4 - USER GUIDE
4.1 General .......................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 Preparations for Operation ............................................................................................ 4-1
4.3 Calibration Procedure ................................................................................................... 4-1
4.4 Operating Instructions ................................................................................................... 4-2
4.5 Bypassing the 500W Amplifier Section ....................................................................... 4-2
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure Title Page
1-1 RM500R, General View ............................................................................................... 1-1
2-1 RM500 Front Panel ....................................................................................................... 2-2
2-2 RM500R Front Panel .................................................................................................... 2-3
2-3 RM500/RM500R Rear Panel ........................................................................................ 2-4
3-1 Connections to Optional PPS ........................................................................................ 3-7
LIST OF TABLES
Table Title Page
1-1 25 Pin Accessories Connector, Pin Functions .............................................................. 1-7
1-2 ISB Connector, Pin Functions ...................................................................................... 1-8
2-1 RM500 Front Panel Indicators ...................................................................................... 2-1
2-2 RM500/RM500R Rear Panel Items .............................................................................. 2-4
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HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
If you want to learn about the RM-500/RM-500R HF-SSB transceiver:
Read Chapter 1 and locate the required general information.
If you need to operate the RM-500/RM-500R transceiver, proceed as follows:
Read Chapter 2 and 3 and locate the desired operation procedure and follow its instructions.
If you need to review maintenance procedures, proceed as follows:
Read Chapters 4 and view their associated figures and tables.
Relevant figures and tables are referenced under the paragraph title in the manual, to direct the reader
to figures and/or tables which provide a better understanding of the text.
If this manual is updated in the future, all updated pages must be properly placed in the manual, and
all old pages must be removed and destroyed.
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AC Alternating Current
ACC Accessories
AES Advanced Encryption Standard
ALE Automatic Link Establishment
AMD Automatic Message Display
ATU Antenna Tuner Unit
BNC Bayonet Neill Connector
CW Continues Wave/ Carrier Wave
DC Direct Current
DSP Digital Signal Processor
EXT Exit
GND Ground
HMI Human-Machine Interface
ISB Independent Side Band
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
LSB Lower Side Band
MTBF Mean Time between Failures
PC Personal Computer
RF Radio Frequency
RSS Really Simple Syndication
Rx Receiver
SPKR Speaker
SQ Squelch
SSB Single Side Band
STD Standard
TDM Time Division Multiplexer
Tx Transmitter
UBS Upper Side Band
VAC Voltage Alternating Current
VDC Voltage Direct Current
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
MKL MICOM Key Louder
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FOREWORD
ARRANGEMENT OF THIS MANUAL
The manual contains three chapters listed below, with a brief description of each.
CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This chapter provides a description of the RM-500/RM-500R HF-SSB transceiver including purpose and use
and technical characteristics.
CHAPTER 2 - HMI
This chapter provides a detailed description of RM-500/RM-500R HF-SSB transceiver.
CHAPTER 3 - INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
This chapter provides step-by-step instructions for RM-500/RM-500R HF-SSB transceiver installation
procedure.
CHAPTER 4 - USER GUIDE
This chapter provides general guidelines for performing RM-500/RM-500R HF-SSB
transceiver
maintenance.
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WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES
The following notations are used when it becomes necessary to place special emphasis on procedures,
or call the operator’s attention to precautionary measures.
An operating procedure, practice and so forth, which if
not followed correctly, could result in personnel injury
or loss of life.
An operating procedure, practice and so forth, which if
not followed correctly, could result in damage to, or
destruction of equipment.
NOTE
An operating procedure, condition and so forth, which
special attention should be paid.
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CHAPTER 1
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
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General Description
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The MICOM RM500 (ordering option G160) and RM500R (ordering option G179) are
500W HF SSB rack-mount continuous duty transceivers, part of the MICOM 3 line of HF
SSB radio sets. This manual covers the installation and operation of the RM500/RM500R
transceivers. The manual covers only procedures specific to the RM500 and RM500R; the
other procedures, which are common to the whole MICOM 3 product line, are described
in Publication 6886867J01, “Owner’s Guide, MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”.
Optional features applicable to your radio set can be found in MICOM-3 Supplements.
1.2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The MICOM RM500 and RM500R are 500W HF SSB continuous duty radio sets. Figure
1 shows a general view of a typical 500W transceiver (the RM500R).
F1
F2
F3
F4
0
*
Figure 1-1. RM500R, General View
RM500 and RM500R expand the MICOM 3 product line by offering higher transmit
power and thus longer reach, and improved communications under bad propagation
conditions and/or strong interference.
RM500 and RM500R can be equipped with the ISB option (option G191), described in
Publication 6888882V01, which enables MICOM-3 radio sets to simultaneously
communicate on both the upper sideband (USB) and the lower sideband (LSB) of the
selected channel (RF carrier frequency). Moreover, when transmitting data, the internal
MICOM-3 modem enables using the whole bandwidth of the two sidebands (more than 6
1-1
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General Description
kHz) to transmit the data stream. Therefore, the maximum available data rate is doubled
(19200 bps instead of 9600 bps).
Digital encryption, supported when the vocoder option is installed, provides privacy for
sensitive applications. The encryption keys are loaded by means of the MKL Key Loader.
An RM500 or RM500R radio set consists of a standard MICOM 3 transceiver tightly
integrated with a 500W RF power amplifier and a 110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz AC-powered
power supply, all contained within a compact chassis suitable for installation in 19 in.
racks and shelves.
The AC input voltage range (110 and 220 VAC) is automatically switched, allowing
operation in the United States of America as well as in other countries. Internal cooling
fans allow for continuous-duty data transmission and operation over a wide temperatures
range. The radio set features four accessories connectors located on the rear panel to
facilitate the connection of optional accessories.
For operation in multiple-transmitter or split sites, the RM500 and RM500R can be
ordered with an interface for the Pre-Selector/Post-Selector (PPS) (option G65).
NOTE
The G65 option does not include the Pre-Selector/PostSelector (PPS) unit, which must be separately ordered.
The RM500/RM500R are very well suited for base station applications, and also support
remote control, using option G422AA (refer to Publication 2072-09682-00 for details)
RM500 and RM500R can be directly connected to a wide range of broadband or tuned
antennas, including whip, dipole, traveling wave, delta, and semi-delta antennas. To obtain
maximum forward power, a low VSWR antenna system should be used; however, in case
of excessive VSWR, protection circuits prevent damage by reducing the transmit power to
safe values. Thus, the RM500 and RM500R will always attempt to transmit at the
maximum safe power, even in case of mismatch.
Special circuits protect the RM500 and RM500R against overheating and various types of
malfunctions. In case a critical problem is detected, the protection circuits are activated
and bypass the internal 500W power amplifier: in this case, the MICOM 3 transceiver is
directly connected to the antenna. This enables normal reception, as well as transmission,
albeit at the lower power levels (up to 125W) the MICOM 3 transceiver can provide.
Front panel indicators indicate the type of problem that has been detected, to help the
operator correct it.
Because the RM500 and RM500R are part of the MICOM 3 line, they have similar
capabilities, characteristics and operational procedures as MICOM 3, thereby enabling
personnel familiar with the operation of MICOM 3 equipment to start using the
RM500/RM500R with minimal training.
1-2
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General Description
1.3 EQUIPMENT VERSIONS
MICOM RM500
Transceiver for long range wireless voice, fax, data and email communications.
MICOM RM500R
Ruggedized transceiver with military handset and connectors, for applications
requiring the utmost dependability and reliability.
1.4 MAIN FEATURES
Automatic Link Establishment per FED-1045 & MIL-STD-188-141B (JITC
certified).
Full interoperability with other manufacturers' radios complying with the same ALE
standards.
ISB (Independent Side Band) option (option G191).
Remote control option (option G422AA).
1.4.1 VOICE THAT'S LOUD & CLEAR
A built-in voice quality system utilizes proprietary algorithms to filter out background
noises, giving users exceptional communication clarity.
Selectable bandwidth allows fine tuning for optimal voice and data communications.
Voice-activated digital squelch.
1.4.2 USER-FRIENDLY
New control head features a large LCD, full-dot matrix digital display and an
enhanced keypad for programming and set-up.
Multiple language display available.
Transceiver can be controlled using PC and programming application.
Remote control configuration, allows the transceiver to be operated from a remote
location (at a distance of up to 5 km) using the optional 2-wire remote control head.
1-3
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General Description
1.4.3 YEARS OF TROUBLE-FREE COMMUNICATIONS
Upgrading to future technologies is easily performed by installing new software into
the transceiver's DSP unit.
Easily replaceable digital components ensure cost-effective maintenance.
Very high MTBF, as with all MICOM radios.
Unique Built-In self Test Equipment (BITE) provides exceptional dependability.
Protection circuits enable transmission at maximum safe power
1.4.4 COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNICATION AND NETWORKING SERVICES
Office-quality communication services integrating fax, e-mail and data.
Multi-Net feature, allows ALE communication on multiple nets simultaneously.
AMD (Automatic Message Display) for sending and receiving text messages.
1.4.5 A PROVEN FAMILY OF RADIO PRODUCTS
RM500 and RM500R are members of the MICOM transceiver family of fixed and
mobile stations, covering the long-range wireless communication needs of thousands
of organizations worldwide.
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General Description
1.5 MAJOR ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS
HF modems (contact manufacturer for information)
Secure voice and data (contact manufacturer for information)
Vocoder
CCIR automatic link establishment protocol
Global call option
QuickCall adaptive multiple networking option
Automatic telephone interconnect, FLN2824
Antenna system
Pre/Post-Selector (PPS) Interface, option G65
FM to HF repeater, FDN6123
ATU, F2265
Antennas and grounding kit, TRN6295.
1.6 PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS
1.6.1 MAIN TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
This section presents the main technical characteristics of the RM500 and RM500R. For a
complete listing of the performance specifications for the MICOM 3, refer to Publication
6886867J01, “Owner’s Guide, MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”, and to the
applicable MICOM 3 Supplements that cover the optional features available on your radio
set.
Models
General
RM500 M91AMN0KV5-K
RM500R M95AMN0KV5-K
Number of channels 200
Transmission frequency
range
(option G160)
(option G179)
1.6 to 30 MHz
1-5
Transmit power (PEP and
average)
User-selectable levels:
Max: 500 W
High: 400 W
Medium: 250 W
Low: 200 W
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General Description
Reception frequency range 100 kHz to 30 MHz
Sensitivity (SINAD)
0.3 V for 10 dB SINAD
Audio bandwidth 350 to 2700 Hz
Data bandwidth 300 to 3300 Hz
Frequency stability 0.6 ppm (0.1 ppm optional)
Frequency resolution 10 Hz
Number of accessories
4 (see Table 1-1)
connectors
Operating voltage 110 /220 VAC, 50/60 Hz, with
automatic switching
Power requirements Max. 2000W
Operating temperature range -10C to +60C/14F to
+140F
Humidity Up to 95% relative humidity
@ 50C/122F
Dimensions
Height 290 mm/11.42 inch
Width 480 mm/18.9 inch
Depth 550 mm/21.7 inch
Weight 32 kg/70.6 lbs
1.6.2 CONNECTOR DATA
1.6.2.1 Accessories Connectors
The functions of the pins in the 25-pin accessories connectors, ACC-J1 to ACC-J4, are
listed in Table 1. The connectors include PTT and CW control lines, audio and baseband
lines for external equipment, auxiliary power output, serial RS-232 asynchronous data
interfaces, and additional dedicated handshaking and control lines. The functions
supported by the serial data interfaces are determined by the RM500/RM500R software.
1-6
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General Description
Table 1-1. 25 Pin Accessories Connector, Pin Functions
Pin Designation Description
1 SPKR-
2 EXT RX1 OUT-
Differential output to the external 8, 8W speaker
Differential receive output (– line) of main sideband (0 dBm, 600; not
affected by the volume control, nor by the squelch)
3 SPKR+
Differential output to the external 8, 8W speaker
4 EXT RX1
AUDIO+
5 EXT RX1
Differential receive audio output (0 dBm, 600; not controlled by
volume, but affected by squelch)
AUDIO-
6 EXT TX1 IN+
7 EXT TX1 IN-
Differential transmit input (600 input impedance; 0 dBm is required for
full power)
8 PTT IN VOICE Transmission command (short to ground) for voice signals (Note 1)
9 PTT IN DATA Transmission command (short to ground) for data signals (Note 1)
10 PTT IN CW Transmission command (short to ground) for CW (Morse) signals
11 SW A+ Primary DC voltage current limited output (max 1A)
12 DSI/KW C C BDM – Data serial in/external RF amplifier channel change
13 KW ON/OFF External RF amplifier power on/off output
14 EXT RX1 OUT+
Differential receive output (+ line) of main sideband (0 dBm, 600; not
affected by the volume control, nor by the squelch)
15 RXA Receive input (point-to-point protocol to host/HLC)
16 TXA Transmit output (point-to-point protocol to host/HLC)
17 EX RESET External RESET input (for BDM)
18 GND Ground
19 KW PTT PTT output to external RF amplifier
20 EXT ALARM External alarm output (open collector, pulled to ground when external
alarm is activated)
21 VPP Flash programming voltage, input to BDM
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General Description
Table 1-1. 25 Pin Accessories Connector, Pin Functions (Continued)
Pin Designation Description
22 DSC/KW_ALC BDM – Data serial clock/external RF amplifier ALC
23 SQ GATE Squelch open/closed indication output
24 DSO/FAN ON/OFF BDM – Data serial out/Fan control
25 FREEZE/KW TU BDM – Freeze/external RF amplifier tune
NOTE
For RM500/RM500R with the ISB option, these lines
activate transmission for both the main and secondary
sidebands.
1.6.2.2 ISB Connector
The ISB connector is a 9 pin D type female connector installed only on RM500/RM500R
with the ISB option, G191 (the ISB option is covered by the Independent Sideband (ISB)
Option for MICOM 3 HF SSB Transceivers, Publication 6888882V01). This connector
contains the transmit and receive lines for the secondary sideband. Table 2 lists the
functions of the pins in the ISB connector.
Table 1-2. ISB Connector, Pin Functions
1-8
Pin Designation Description
1 EXT RX2 OUT+
2 EXT RX2 OUT-
Differential receive output of secondary sideband (0 dBm,
600; not affected by the volume control, nor by the squelch)
3 GND Ground
4, 5 - Not used
6 EXT TX2 IN+
7 EXT TX2 IN-
Differential transmit input of secondary sideband (600 input
impedance; 0 dBm is required for maximum power)
8, 9 - Not used
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1.6.2.3 MKL Connector
The MKL connector is a 9 pin D type female connector used to connect the MKL Key
Loader. This connector is installed when the radio set is equipped with the internal AES
encryption option. If you need connection details, contact the manufacturer, or your local
representative.
1.6.2.4 PPS-CONT Connector
The PPS-CONT connector is a 9 pin D type female connector used to connect to a
Pre/Post Selector (PPS) unit. This connector is installed only when the radio set is
equipped with the PPS interface option (option G65). If you need connection details,
contact the manufacturer, or your local representative.
1.6.2.5 TUNER CONTROL Connector
The TUNER CONTROL connector is a 9 pin D type female connector used to connect to
an external automatic antenna tuner. If you need connection details, contact the
manufacturer, or your local representative.
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1.7 RM500/RM500R MAIN OPTIONS
PC control and programming software package
ALE DTM/DBM
PPS interface
Interface for VP-116 voice privacy device
2-wire remote control head
1.7.1 MAIN ORDERING OPTIONS
G424 (FVN4841) Add
PC control and programming software
package
S809 (FLN2515) Enhanced Interface cable kit for CW key & headphones
G112 Enhanced High frequency stability option (0.1 ppm)
G849 Add
Interface option for external voice privacy
device (VP-116)
G419 Enhanced
USB COM port for connecting external
keyboard
G423 Add
ALE DTM/DBM (data transfer message/data
block message)
S308 (FLN2517) Add Interface cable kit for phone patch
G561 (FLN2530) Add Interface cable for MICOM link unit
G65 Add
Interface for Pre/Post Selector for co-site or
split-site application
G420 Add 2-wire remote control head (up to 5 km)
G422AA Add 6-wire remote control head
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CHAPTER 2
HMI
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HMI
2.1 FAMILIARIZATION WITH EQUIPMENT
2.2 RM500 FRONT PANEL
The front panel of the RM500 includes a standard MICOM 3 control panel, and the
additional items identified in Figure 2-2.
For a description of the MICOM 3 control panel, refer to Publication 6886867J01,
“Owner’s Guide, MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”; for indicator functions, refer
to Table 2-2
Table 2-1. RM500 Front Panel Indicators
Indicator Function
VOLT Power supply fault indicator: lights when an internal supply voltage is out of limits. In
this case, the 500W amplifier section cannot operate
OVER
DR
Input overload indicator: lights when the RF drive power supplied to the 500W amplifier
is too high. The 500W amplifier section is bypassed
TEMP Amplifier overheat indicator: lights when the internal temperature is too high. Usually,
this occurs when the air intake or exhaust vents are accidentally obstructed, prolonged
exposure to direct sun radiation, or excessive ambient temperatures.
If the FAILURE indicator flashes while TEMP lights but BYPASS is off, the 500W
amplifier continues transmitting at half power
If the FAILURE and BYPASS indicators light together with TEMP, the 500W amplifier
has switched to the bypass mode
VSWR Excessive VSWR indicator: lights when the 500W amplifier is in the transmit mode to
indicate that the antenna VSWR exceeds the maximum allowed. This may be caused by
a disconnected feed cable, an improperly installed or incorrectly tuned antenna, or as a
result of damage to the antenna or to its feed cable
FAILURE PA failure indicator:
Lights when a critical fault in the 500W amplifier section prevents its operation. In this
case, BYPASS also lights, to indicate that the 500W amplifier is bypassed
Flashes when an operational problem, for example, high temperature, excessive drive
power or excessive VSWR activates the corresponding protection circuits
TX Transmission mode indicator: lights when the 500W amplifier operates in the transmit
mode
BYPASS Bypass mode indicator: lights when the 500W amplifier is bypassed. The amplifier is
normally bypassed when the radio is in the receive mode. It is also bypassed when a
fault or abnormal condition prevents its normal operation
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Table 2-1. RM500 Front Panel Indicators (Continued)
Indicator Function
BAND
OUT
Out-of-band input signal frequency: lights when the output filter of the 500W amplifier
(used to reduce harmonics radiated by the radio set), cannot be tuned to the input signal
frequency. In this case, the highest filter band is selected to attempt continued operation
Internal Speaker
RM 500
Standard MICOM-3
PanelControl
Indicators
OVER DR
TEMP
VSWR
Main ON/ OFF
Switch and
Circuit Breaker
FAILUREVOLT
TX
BYPASS
BAND
OUT
ON
OFF
Headphone
Jack
Telegraphy
Key Jack
Internal Speaker
ON/OFF Sw itch
Figure 2-1. RM500 Front Panel
2-2
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HMI
2.3 RM500R FRONT PANEL
The front panel of the RM500R is shown in Figure 2-3. Refer to Table 2-2 for indicator
functions.
Serial
Communication
Port
Internal Speaker
Standard MICOM-3
PanelControl
Indicators
Main ON/OFF
Switch and
Circuit Breaker
RM 500R
AUDIO
Audio Connectors
for
External Speaker
and Handset
COM
ON
OFF
Internal Speaker
ON/OFF Switch
Figure 2-2. RM500R Front Panel
OVER DR TX
TEMP
VSWR
FAILUREVOLT
BYPASS
BAND
OUT
2-3
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A
A
A
A
HMI
2.4 RM500/RM500R REAR PANEL
Figure 4 shows the rear panel of the RM500 and RM500R. The functions of the various
items are explained in Table 4.
12 11 10 9 6
7813141516
TX IN
RX IN
ACC. C.H.
110/220VAC
RF OUT
CC.-J3
CC.-J4
REMOTE CONTROL
CC.-J1
CC.-J2
ISB PPS-CONT
Figure 2-3. RM500/RM500R Rear Panel
Table 2-2. RM500/RM500R Rear Panel Items
TX OUT
RX OUT
53214
Item Description Function
1 AC Power Cable Connection to AC power source
2 RF OUT Connector UHF connector for connection of feed cable to antenna. Serves as
the radio set RF input in the receive mode, and as the RF output in
the transmit mode
3 REMOTE
CONTROL Switch
4 REMOTE
Enables/disables remote control by the optional 2-wire control
head
Connection of 2-wire line to optional 2-wire control head
CONTROL
Terminals
2-4
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Table 2-2. RM500/RM500R Rear Panel Items (Continued)
Item Description Function
5 Grounding Screw Connection of ground to the 500W power amplifier section
6 RX OUT Connector BNC RF output connector, for connection of unfiltered RF receive
signal to the optional pre/post-selector (PPS) (optional)
7 TX OUT Connector BNC RF output connector, for connection of unfiltered RF
transmit signal to the optional pre/post-selector (PPS) (optional)
8 MKL/DATA
Connector
9 TUNER CONTROL
Connector
10 PPS CONTROL
Connector
11 ACC-J1 to ACC-J4
Connectors
Optional 9-pin D-type female connector, for connecting to an
MKL Key Loader
Optional 9-pin D-type female connector, for connecting to an
optional external antenna tuner unit
Connection of control signals to the optional pre/post-selector
(PPS) (optional)
Four 25-pin D-type male connectors, for connection to external
accessories, for example, voice privacy devices, modems,
vocoders, etc. (see Table 2-1 for pin-out)
12 ISB Connector Optional 9-pin D-type female connector, for connecting to the
additional lines used for the ISB option
13 Grounding Screw Connection of ground to the transceiver section
14 TX IN Connector BNC RF input connector, for connection of filtered RF transmit
signal from the optional pre/post-selector (PPS) (optional)
15 RX IN Connector BNC RF input connector, for connection of filtered RF receive
signal from the optional pre/post-selector (PPS) (optional)
16 ACC. C.H.
Connector
Items 8, 9, 10, 12 are installed only when the radio set
is equipped with the corresponding option.
2-5/(2-6 Blank)
Optional 15-pin D-type female connector, for connecting to the 6-
wire Control Head (option G422AA)
NOTE
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CHAPTER 3
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
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Installation Procedure
For general operating and installation safety
information, see Publication 6886867J01, “Owner’s
Guide, MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”.
During installation work, strictly observe the applicable
safety precautions and local regulations. Do not work
on the antenna system during lightning storms.
Proper grounding is essential for your safety, and for
good communication performance.
Do not touch the antenna and the RF connectors while
the radio set is in operation. During transmission, high
RF voltages appear at the RF connectors, the antenna
cables, and on the antenna itself. These voltages may
cause severe injury or death on contact.
Make sure the antenna is not located near high-voltage
lines.
All personnel must be familiar with the applicable
safety requirements before attempting to install or
operate the RM500/RM500R. Severe injury or death
could result from failure to comply with the safety
practices.
The RM500/RM500R is a two-person lift. Make sure
that help is available during the installation activities.
Before putting a new RM500/RM500R into operation,
it is necessary to calibrate the system to obtain the
correct transmit power. Calibration instructions for
RM500/RM500R appear in Publication 2072-0953800, “Radio Service Software (RSS), User’s Guide” for
RSS version V3.0 or higher.
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3.1 INSTALLATION PLANNING GUIDELINES
This section provides information necessary for planning the installation of
RM500/RM500R radio set.
3.2 GROUNDING
Failure to provide proper grounding will degrade system operation and cause RF voltage
to be present on the equipment chassis. A serious hazard to personnel or equipment could
result.
Wide copper straps, as short as possible, must be used for grounding. These straps must be
clamped or bonded to a reliable, low-resistance grounding system.
3.3 POWER REQUIREMENTS
The RM500/RM500R requires AC power at a nominal voltage of 110 or 220 VAC, 50/60
Hz. The RM500/RM500R will automatically select the appropriate voltage range. The AC
power consumption during high-power transmission is up to 2 kW.
A suitably rated circuit breaker must be used to protect the supply line to the
RM500/RM500R. It must also enable disconnection of supply voltage during installation
and maintenance.
3.4 COOLING
RM500/RM500R units are cooled by two internal fans. Air is taken in through the front
panel vent, and discharged toward the rear. Therefore, make sure that sufficient free space
is available around the equipment to enable free air flow.
Do not stack equipment units: leave at least 1U free above and below the
RM500/RM500R.
3.5 INSTALLATION DATA
The RM500/RM500R are intended for installation in 19 in. racks. The equipment has
front-mounted brackets for attachment. To provide convenient access during maintenance,
the RM500/RM500R may be installed in a sliding drawer or on slides capable of
supporting the equipment weight.
Make sure that sufficient rack space is available for installation of optional items if
necessary, for example, the 1U high PreSelector/PostSelector (PPS).
The rack must be connected to a reliable, low-resistance grounding system.
Sufficient front and rear clearance is required to permit convenient access to front and rear
panels, as well as for removal and installation of equipment units, connection of cables,
and maintenance.
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3.6 ANTENNA SYSTEM
Antenna systems are selected in accordance with the specific communication requirements
of each customer: many HF antenna types are available, each providing different radiation
characteristics to meet different communication requirements. Therefore, the selection and
installation of an antenna system is the customer’s responsibility. If necessary, contact
manufacturer or your local representative for additional information.
The antenna system must provide a matched termination at the operating frequency, and
must be capable of handling the maximum power output of the RM500/RM500R.
3.6.1 ANTENNA FEED SYSTEM
The antenna feed system comprises any cables, panels and matrices, and any accessories
that carry HF signals between the RM500/RM500R and the antenna itself.
All antenna feed system components, and in particular the feed cable, must have low loss
and be capable of carrying the maximum power output of the RM500/RM500R.
Remember that any power loss along the cable is signal loss!
To protect yourself and the radio equipment against lightning strokes and accidental
contact of antenna and/or feed cable with high voltage lines, a properly grounded coaxial
protector must be installed at the point of entry of the feed cable into the building or
communication shelter. The recommended protector type is IS-B50LN-C0 by PolyPhaser
Corp. (also available from the manufacturer, as Cat. No. 2072 09128-00).
3.7 PREPARATIONS FOR INSTALLATION
Before starting the installation of a new RM500/RM500R, review the installation plan and
make the following checks:
a. Identify the prescribed location of the equipment in the rack or cabinet, and check the
mounting surface, and the mounting holes. Thoroughly clean the mounting surface
and remove all paint, grease and dirt from the holes to provide a better grounding
connection.
b. Check availability of AC power, and grounding arrangements.
c. Check antenna installation, in accordance with the antenna installation and operation
manual.
d. Check the cable runs between the RM500/RM500R and the prescribed antenna,
including the coaxial protector. Make sure that the cables are securely fastened, and
do not show signs of external damage.
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NOTE
Before installing the RM500/RM500R on slides, make
sure you are familiar with the procedures needed to
install slides in the rack/cabinet, and safely install
heavy equipment on the slides.
3.7.1 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE – BASIC RADIO
a. Identify the installation position of the RM500/RM500R in the rack.
b. Install the RM500/RM500R in the prescribed installation position, fastening it by
means of four screws to the rack rails or to the drawer front.
c. Connect grounding straps from each of the two RM500/RM500R grounding screws
(located on its rear panel), to the prescribed cabinet’s grounding bar.
d. Set the power switch on the RM500/RM500R front panel to OFF (down position).
e. Connect cables to the unit as follows:
Connect the RM500/RM500R AC power cable to the prescribed outlet on the
power distribution box of the cabinet.
Connect the antenna feed cable to the RF OUT connector of the
RM500/RM500R.
When an external device is used, connect the prescribed cable to the accessories
connector of the RM500/RM500R that supports the corresponding device.
f. Connect audio accessories to the front panel connectors.
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3.8 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE – RADIO WITH PPS OPTION
3.8.1 PPS FUNCTIONS
The optional Preselector/Postselector, PPS-100 (referred to as PPS in this manual),
permits operation of collocated receivers and transmitters on frequencies separated by as
little as 10%. The PPS operating frequency range is 1.60 to 29.99 MHz. To use the PPS,
order the RM500/RM500R with option G65. The connections between an
RM500/RM500R with option G65 and the PPS are shown in Figure 5.
When the G65 option is installed, the PPS is controlled by the RM500/RM500R through a
serial port, and is automatically inserted by the RM500/RM500R in the signal path in
accordance with the operating mode:
In the receive mode, the PPS functions as a preselector, providing an additional front
end selectivity stage for the receive path of the RM500/RM500R. This reduces the
receiver desensitization and overload that would normally occur in the presence of
strong adjacent RF transmissions.
In the transmit mode, the PPS is used as a post selector. It attenuates spurious signals
and broadband noise in the driver transmit signal before it reaches the internal 500W
power amplifier, thereby reducing interference to neighbouring receivers.
In both modes, the PPS automatically tracks the RM500/RM500R operating frequency.
Rapid tuning makes the PPS suitable for Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) or
Adaptive Applications.
During self-test, the PPS automatically switches to the bypass mode: in this mode, RF
signals pass directly through the PPS, without filtering, and therefore the PPS does not
interfere with system operation. The PPS also switches to the bypass mode when the
RM500/RM500R frequency is outside the PPS operating range, 1.60 to 29.99 MHz.
In case excessive RF power is applied to the PPS, the PPS enters the RF overload
protection mode: in this mode, the PPS antenna port is disconnected, and the internal
antenna input is short-circuited to ground. This also protects the RM500/RM500R internal
transceiver against overload.
The PPS is housed in a 1U high (1.75 in.) case intended for 19 in. rack mounting.
Standard operation is from 115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, and can also be powered from 12 or
24 VDC DC sources.
3.8.1.1 PPS Installation Procedure
NOTE
The following procedure assumes that the basic
RM500/RM500R unit has already been installed, as
previously explained (page 16).
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a. Identify the installation position of the PPS in the rack, and the position of the
RM500/RM500R to which it will be connected.
b. Install the PPS in the prescribed installation position, fastening it by means of four
screws to the rack rails or to the drawer front.
c. Connect a grounding strap from the PPS unit grounding screw to the prescribed
cabinet’s grounding bar.
d. Set the power switches on the RM500/RM500R and PPS front panels to OFF (down
position).
e. Connect the PPS AC power cable to the prescribed outlet on the power distribution
box of the cabinet.
f. Refer to Figure 5 and connect cables between RM500/RM500R and the PPS as
follows:
RM500/RM500R
PPS Connector
Connector
PPS CONTROL SERIAL I/O
RX IN ANTENNA
TX IN EXEC OUT
TX OUT PA IN
RX OUT RADIO
This completes the installation of the PPS.
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A
A
A
A
Installation Procedure
PARALLEL I/O SERIAL I/O
ANTENNA EXC OUT PA IN RADIO
Serial
Control Cable
RX IN TX IN
ACC. C.H.
110/220VAC
REMOTE CONTROL
CC.-J1
CC.-J2
ISB
CC.-J3
CC.-J4
PPS-CONT
DC IN
+12/24 VDC GND
AC POWER
TX OUT
RX OUT
RF OUT
To Antenna
To AC Power
3-7/(3-8 Blank)
Figure 3-1. Connections to Optional PPS
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CHAPTER 4
USER GUIDE
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User Guide
4.1 GENERAL
The following instructions present operating procedures specific to the RM500 and
RM500R. It is assumed that the operator is familiar with the common MICOM 3
operating procedures; if necessary, refer to Publication 6886867J01, “Owner’s Guide,
MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”, and to the applicable MICOM 3 Supplements
that cover optional features.
4.2 PREPARATIONS FOR OPERATION
a. Set the REMOTE CONTROL switch on the rear panel of the RM500/RM500R to the
OFF (down) position.
b. For the RM500R, set the internal speaker switch to ON (up).
4.3 CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
The manufacturer calibrates new RM500/RM500R sets, to ensure that the transmit level
matches the specifications at each of the four transmit power levels (LOW, MED, HIGH,
and MAX). However, after repairing an RM500/RM500R, it is necessary to calibrate
again the radio set.
Calibration instructions for the RM500/RM500R are given in “Chapter 12: Technician
Mode” of Publication 2072-09538-00, “Radio Service Software (RSS) V3.0, User’s
Guide” (previously Publication 68P02953C05-O).
The calibration procedure is described in para. 12.2: “Power Calibration” of the RSS
User’s Guide. Before carrying out the procedure, make sure to select the 1 kW amplifier
power word option on the window that is opened by selecting Technician>Calibration
(this selection also applies to the internal 500W power amplifier of RM500/RM500R).
The calibration must be performed for each transmit level. The nominal transmit levels are
as follows:
LOW: nominal transmit power of 200W.
MED: nominal transmit power of 300W.
HIGH: nominal transmit power of 400W.
MAX: nominal transmit power of 500W.
Exceeding the maximum rated power of the RM500/RM500R (500 W) may damage the
equipment, and therefore it is highly recommended to adjust the MAX transmit power to
450W (that is, 0.5 dB below the rated maximum).
This is a precaution that takes into consideration the accuracy of the equipment used to
measure the output power.
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4.4 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
a. Turn the radio on by setting its main switch to ON (up).
b. Adjust the volume control to a comfortable listening level.
c. You are now ready to start using the RM500/RM500R. For operating procedures, you
may use the information appearing in Publication 6886867J01, “Owner’s Guide,
MICOM 3E/3T/3R HF-SSB Transceivers”.
d. To turn the radio off, set its main switch to OFF (down).
4.5 BYPASSING THE 500W AMPLIFIER SECTION
The internal 500W amplifier section of the RM500/RM500R can be permanently
bypassed. In this case, you can still transmit at a power of up to 125W using the
capabilities of the MICOM 3 transceiver which is part of the RM500/RM500R.
You can bypass the 500W amplifier section in case the full transmit power of the
RM500/RM500R is not needed (for example, good communication conditions), to save
power (the maximum power consumption then decreases to approx. 500W), or when a
technical problem in the 500W amplifier section prevents its operation.
To bypass the 500W amplifier section, select NONE on the PROG>RAD>OPTS>ACC
menu.
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