Northern Airborne Technology NT4xx User Manual
TAC/COM SERIES
UHF TRANSCEIVERS (NT403-NT806)
SM04
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
REV 4.00 November 27, 2003
Northern Airborne Technology Ltd.
1925 Kirschner Road
Kelowna BC, Canada.
V1Y 4N7
Telephone (250) 763-2232
Facsimile (250) 762-3374
Copyright 2003 by Northern Airborne Technology
CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev. 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
Periodically NAT will release manual amendments. In order to maintain the most
accurate and up to date manual these amendments should be carried out
immediately upon receipt and recorded on the following amendment record.
AMENDMENT RECORD
Amendment #
Amend. Date Date Entered
Entered By
Nov 27, 2003 Page ii
ENG-FORM: 820-0109.DOT
CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev. 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
Table of Contents
Section Title Page
1.0 Description
1.1 Introduction 1-1
1.2 Purpose of Equipment 1-1
1.3 Design Features 1-1
1.4 Specifications 1-2
1.4.1 System Specifications 1-2
1.4.2 Transmitter Specifications 1-3
1.4.3 Receiver Specifications 1-4
1.5 Unit Nomenclature 1-4
2.0 Installation
2.1 General 2-1
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection 2-1
2.3 Installation Procedures 2-1
2.3.1 Warnings 2-1
2.3.2 Cautions 2-1
2.3.3 Cabling and Wiring 2-2
2.3.4 Mechanical Mounting 2-3
2.3.5 Antenna Selection Guide 2-5
2.3.6 Post-Installation Checks 2-6
2.4 Installation Drawings 2-9
3.0 Operation
3.1 General 3-1
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ENG-FORM: 820-0109.DOT
CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev. 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
Section 1.0 Description
1.1 Introduction
Tac/Com series transceivers have been optimized for full feature operation within the
total Tac/Com system architecture, and provide agile operation over a wide range of RF
frequencies.
Using a combination of serial and parallel tuning, these transceivers provide a simple
interconnect with powerful channeling ability. The design of the transceivers also
supports full encryption capability to DES 1027, or VGE formats without modification.
Subaudible (CTCSS) tone coded squelch and DPL coding are also fully supported.
Various levels of scanning are supported in these fast lock synthesized radios, such as
'PRIORITY' or 'SCAN' list formats. These modes can emulate multiple 'guard' receiver
operation under full control of the operator, and can be altered in the system software
(control head). The basic radio stores 32 frequencies within 2 pages of non-volatile
memory, any or all of which can be altered by the Tac/Com system control head as
needed by the operator.
1.2 Purpose of Equipment
These transceivers are designed to meet the difficult airborne requirements of law
enforcement and public service/public safety groups for tactical FM communication
systems. The Tac/Com series of radio control heads provide a centralized location for
tactical radio control of up to four transceiver systems, which can be of either NAT or
other manufacture. Alphabetic labeling or identification of each radio channel is
provided, as well as a display of receive and transmit frequencies, to ease pilot
identification of the selected channel. Intended for aircraft use, these components may
also be operated in vehicular applications (when correctly ordered) to provide the same
capability for communications vans, emergency site co-ordination, or surveillance.
1.3 Design Features
The Tac/Com transceiver family uses advanced technology microprocessor controlled
frequency synthesis, and NOVRAM channel data storage to provide its powerful
features. The radio itself is completely modular, facilitating quick repair and service.
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
UHF Transceiver Manual SM04 Rev. 4.00
The physical enclosures for the Tac/Com transceivers are die-cast, with fully RF
gasketed closures, to provide the most rugged possible unit. The design is qualified to
MIL-STD 810D for environmental performance.
Many new band splits are supported by the Tac/Com family, providing airborne systems
for new frequencies now required by land based law enforcement agencies and public
service groups. These new splits can be mixed with other existing equipment via the
Tac/Com control head to produce full function systems with minimum cost.
The thermal management of the radio is outstanding, resulting in minimal case
temperature rise regardless of operational cycles. This is a significant departure from
many existing systems which are at design limits even with low duty cycles.
A wide range energy conversion power supply is used in the transceivers for 28 VDC
operation, which significantly reduces both current consumption from the aircraft bus,
and waste heat generation.
All transceivers have the same mounting footprint, RF connector, and plug-compatible
interconnect, for ease of installation.
Unit covers have integral screws (anti-tamper) and hardware for ease of bench
servicing (no more lost screws). Mating logic/interface connectors use gold contacts,
and the Mil-spec type "N" RF connector is tarnish resistant, for improved performance in
humid environments.
1.4 Specifications
1.4.1 System Specifications
Frequency range NT403 403-429.9875 MHz
NT450 450-469.9875 MHz
NT450A 470-487.9875 MHz
NT450B 482-499.9875 MHz
NT450C 494-511.9875 MHz
NT806 (TX) 806-824.9875 MHz
(TX&RX) 851-869.9875 MHz
Input Power Nominal 28 VDC
Current Consumption RX (squelched) 0.4-0.7 A (typ.)
TX 2.0 A (typ.)
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev. 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
Frequency Stability 0.0005%
0.00015% (NT806)
Channel Spacing 12.5 kHz
Temperature Range -30°C to +60°C
Humidity to 90% (non-condensing/60°C)
Altitude 16,500' in unpressurized area
Duty Cycle 100% RX, 20% TX
CTCSS Tones 38 (From 67.0 Hz to 250.3 Hz EIA Std.)
DPL Codes (Digital Private Line) 83 (023 to 754)
Encryption Capability -DES per FS1027
-GE Voice Guard
-Transcrypt
Shock EIA and MIL-STD-810D
Dimensions 2.7" x 8.0" x 14.0" (W/R Version)
(H x W x D) 2.7" x 9.5" x 13.3"
Weight (less accessories) 8.5 lbs. (W/R Version)
9.5 lbs.
1.4.2 Transmitter Specifications
Conducted Spurious -80 dB
(-70 dB NT806)
Modulation ±4.5 kHz (Max.)
Distortion Less than 2% (1000 Hz)
Less than 5% (300 to 3000 Hz)
Deviation Symmetry 0.3 kHz maximum
Microphone Load Impedance 600 ohms
RF Output Impedance 50 ohms (Type "N" connector)
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
UHF Transceiver Manual SM04 Rev. 4.00
1.4.3 Receiver Specifications
Sensitivity 0.35 uV (EIA 12 dB SINAD) typical
Normally set to 0.6 uV
Selectivity (EIA 2-signal method, -80 dB
25kHz channels)
Spurious Response -85 dB
Audio Output Phones-Nominal 600 ohm line output
100 mW minimum
(Transformer coupled output)
Speaker-Nominal 4 W into 8 ohms.
(Bridge output, DO NOT GROUND)
1.5 Unit Nomenclature
Tac/Com transceivers are identified by two groups of numbers. The first defines the
frequency band, and the second defines any optional attributes of the R/T.
Part numbers:
NT450-000 W/R Í Denotes Weight Reduced
Ï Ñ
Defines Frequency Band Defines Options
The options currently available are as follows:
-100 Seperate DF Receiver (DF100-001), which will allow NT
Series transceivers to operate with NAT's TDF System.
Contact NAT.
-EUR Transceiver modification to provide improved adjacent
channel rejection for compliance with European
specifications.
End of Section 1.0
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ENG-FORM: 800-0107.DOT
CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
Section 2.0 Installation
2.1 General
Installation information in this section consists of unpacking and inspection procedures,
installation procedures, post-installation checks, and installation drawings.
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection
a) Unpack the equipment carefully, and locate the warranty card. Inspect the unit
visually for damage due to shipping, and report all such claims immediately to the
carrier involved. Note that each unit should have the following:
Warranty Card
Release Certificate
Installation Manual
b) Verify that all items are present before proceeding, and report any shortage
immediately to your supplier.
c) Complete the warranty card information, and send it to NAT when the installation
is complete. If you fail to complete the warranty card, the warranty will be
activated on the date of shipment from NAT.
2.3 Installation Procedures
2.3.1 Warnings ÍIMPORTANT !
Do not bundle any lines from this unit with transmitter coax lines. Do not bundle any
logic, audio, or DC power lines from this unit with 400 Hz synchro wiring or AC power
lines. Do not position this unit next to any device with a strong alternating magnetic
field such as an inverter or significant interference to operation will result. In all
installations, use shielded cable exactly as shown and ground as indicated.
Significant problems may result from not following these guidelines.
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
UHF Transceiver Manual SM04 Rev. 4.00
2.3.2 Cautions
All audio installations can be severely degraded by incorrect wiring and shielding, and
may result in much higher cross-talk, hum, and ground-loop interference. This should
be considered when audio wiring to and from the radio installation is performed.
2.3.3 Cabling and Wiring
For shielded wire applications use Tefzel M27500 or Raychem spec 44 (81044)
shielded wire with Raychem D140 or equivalent solder sleeves (for shielded
terminations) to make the most compact and easy to terminate interconnect. Tailor the
examples of installation diagrams in Section 2.4 for your own requirements.
Allow 3 inches from the end of the wire to the shield termination to allow the hood to be
easily installed. Note the hood is a "clamshell" type, and is installed after the wiring is
complete.
All channeling wiring should be 22 ga., except power and ground connections, which
must be 20 ga. or larger, as indicated on the installation drawings. Insure that the
ground connection is clean, and well secured. Power to this system must be supplied
from a separate breaker or fuse, and not bundled to any other source to prevent
inadvertent system failure. A 3A slow-blow fuse or breaker is suggested. (28 VDC
Source).
Coax cable should be RG-58C/U or similar mil-grade full coverage coax cable. At UHF
frequencies, use of double shielded RG-223/U, or large diameter RG-213/U may be
desired to reduce cable loss. Teflon dielectric cable is encouraged above VHF
frequencies, or where cable runs exceed 8 feet. Note that at UHF frequencies, cable
losses with even short runs may cut the ERP to less than 50% of spec.
To prevent RF interference between similar systems, it is recommended that VHF
COMM and VHF FM coax runs be widely separated, or be made using triaxial cable,
with the outer shield bonded to the airframe at one end only (transceiver end). In
communication intensive application, BAD CABLE ROUTING AND SHIELDING MAY
DRASTICALLY COMPROMISE OVER-ALL SYSTEM PERFORMANCE. SYMPTOMS
WILL BE SPURIOUS SQUELCH OPENING, RFI AND GARBLED RECEPTION.
RF cables must be neatly terminated (solder or crimp), and tested FOR SHORTS (NOT
WHILE CONNECTED TO THE RADIO!!) PRIOR TO SYSTEM CHECK-OUT. Avoid
sharp bends in the coax cables (min. 3" radius) to prevent severe reflections, especially
at UHF frequencies.
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
SM04 Rev 4.00 UHF Transceiver Manual
2.3.4 Mechanical Mounting
2.3.4.1 Tray mounting
Transceiver mounting is accomplished via a flat rack assembly, which must be securely
attached to existing structure with AN3 or larger bolts with suitable locking hardware
and washers. Note that the non-weight reduced radio is secured to the tray using a
"TORX" (or six-sided spline) screw to reduce tampering with equipment.
Shock mounting of the tray is not required except in extraordinary circumstances where
airframe vibration is very severe.
Insure that the unit is securely mounted before any flight is attempted.
Do not mount the transceiver in the path of any hot air exhaust, dripping condensation,
or oil leak.
Try to mount the transceiver close to the intended antenna location, as long cable runs
will dramatically increase losses to the antenna.
2.3.4.2 Cabling
Installation cabling MUST allow the unit to be easily withdrawn for removal. Insure an
adequate service loop is allowed in the routing of the cable. Do NOT bundle the RF
coax cable with the channeling wires.
Ground the transceiver with as short a ground wire as practical, and ensure the ground
connection is clean, and of good quality.
2.3.4.3 Control Head
Do not mount the Tac/Com control head adjacent to, or bundle the cables with, a panel
mounted ADF, or faint 'birdies', (RF noise) may result on the ADF from the control
head's computer.
Insure that the unit is securely mounted before any flight is attempted.
Note that the case is grounded, but it should be attached to a grounded surface for RFI
shielding. A pin is provided for grounding the case and this must be connected via ITS
OWN WIRE to a suitable ground, not jumpered to the power ground wire connection.
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
UHF Transceiver Manual SM04 Rev. 4.00
2.3.4.4 Antennas
Correct antenna placement and mounting is critical to achieve the best possible
performance. In general, keep all antennas as widely separated as possible and clear
of any large airframe obstructions. Avoid any placement that puts ANTENNAS OF LIKE
FREQUENCIES CLOSE TOGETHER.
Bottom mounted antennas will perform best in flight, but poorest on the ground during
testing. UHF antennas will be severely degraded by 'masking' effects of the fuselage or
stabilizers, and generally give best performance when bottom mounted.
Any blade or whip antenna must be surrounded by a ground plane surface (metallic,
grounded material) equal in radius to the height of the antenna, as an absolute
minimum. Poor grounding will result in severe reflected power and high levels of RFI
throughout the airframe.
Keep cable bends to a minimum at the antenna and use 90 degree elbow adapters if
sharp bends are required. Avoid antenna locations that will become fouled with oil,
water, fuel or dirt as this will degrade performance.
Roof mounts (in close proximity to rotor blades) are permissible without severe
degradation, but should not be adjacent to VHF AM COMM antennas, or cross-talk may
result.
Use caution with cable routing and length on UHF systems. Sharp kinks, bends or
coiled cable may adversely affect performance. Cable runs should be as short as
possible for good performance. Use only high quality mil-rated cable (RG58C/U),
microwave rated cable (RG214/U), or cable with a teflon dielectric for longer runs.
Type 'N' fittings should be used throughout, if possible, to prevent degradation over
time, and to provide the best impedance match.
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CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY TO NORTHERN AIRBORNE TECHNOLOGY LTD.
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