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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
OPERATING MANUAL
TALON RTX 2767
Talon® RTX Extreme Recording Systems
500 MS/sec RF/IF Extreme Rackmount Recorder
Pentek, Inc.
One Park Way
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
(201) 818−5900
http://www.pentek.com/
Copyright © 2015
Manual Part Number: 800.27670 Rev: 1.0 − March 18, 2015
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Page ii Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
Manual Revision History
Date Rev Comments
3/18/15 1.0 Initial release
Warranty
Pentek warrants its Talon Recorder products to conform to published specifications and to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of one year from the date of delivery, when used under normal operating conditions and within the
service conditions for which they were furnished.
The obligation of Pentek arising from a warranty claim shall be l
product which proves to be defective within the term and scope of the warranty.
Pentek must be notified of the defect or nonconformity within the
shipping charges and insurance prepaid. Pentek will pay shipping charges for the return of product to buyer, except for products
returned from outside of the USA.
imited to repairing or, optionally, replacing without charge any
warranty period. The affected product must be returned with
Limitations of Warranty
This warranty does not apply to products which have been repaired or altered by anyone other than Pentek or its authorized rep−
resentatives. This warranty does not extend to products that have been dama
thorized modification, or extreme
specifications.
Due to the normal, finite write−cycl
caused by wear−related issues that arise as an SSD reaches its write−cycle limit.
Pentek specifically disclaims merchantability or fitness for a p
consequential damages arising from the sale, use, or installation of any Pentek product. Regardless of circumstances, Pentek's lia−
bility under this warranty shall not exceed the purchase price
environmental conditions, that fall outside of the scope of the product’s environmental
e limits of Solid State Drives (SSDs), Pentek shall not be liable for warranty coverage of SSDs
articular purpose. Pentek shall not be held liable for incidental or
of the product.
ged by misuse, neglect, improper installation, unau−
Service and Repair
You must obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) before returning any product to Pentek for service or repair. RMA
requests must be submitted online at: Return Material Authorization Form
After the form is completed in its entirety an
Once your request has been approved, Pentek shall e−mail you an RMA number, shipping instructions, and a quotation, if the
product is out of warranty.
Carefully package the product in its original packaging if it is st
domicile DDP (if outside the US). Pentek shall not be responsible for loss or damage in shipment to Pentek, so you are strongly
encouraged to insure the shipment for its full replacement value.
When the work is completed, we will return the product to you along with
Service phone: 201−81
8−5900 • fax: 201−818−5697 • email: info@pentek.com
d submitted, Pentek shall e−mail you a receipt and start processing your request.
ill available, and ship it to Pentek prepaid (if within the US) or free
a statement of work performed.
Copyrights
The contents of this publication are Copyright © 2013−2015, Pentek, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contents of this publication may
not be reproduced in any form without written permission.
Trademarks
Pentek, ReadyFlow, RTX, SystemFlow, and Talon are registered trademarks of Pentek, Inc.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Radeon is a trademark of AMD. Symmetricom is a registered trademark of Symmetricom, Inc.
Printed in the United States of America.
Intel and Xeon are registered trademarks of Intel.
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Overview of the Pentek Talon® RTX 2767
1.1 Features of the Pentek Talon RTX 2767 .............................................................................................1
1.2 Basic Principles of Operation..............................................................................................................2
1.3 Hardware...............................................................................................................................................2
1.4 Software .................................................................................................................................................2
1.5 Specifications.........................................................................................................................................3
1.5.1 PC Workstation (standard configuration) ......................................................................3
1.5.2 Analog Recording Inputs ..................................................................................................3
1.5.2.1 Analog Signal Inputs ......................................................................................3
1.5.2.2 A/D Converters ..............................................................................................3
1.5.2.3 Digital Downconverter ...................................................................................4
1.5.2.4 Sample and Reference Clocks .......................................................................4
1.5.2.5 External Trigger ...............................................................................................4
1.5.3 Analog Playback Outputs .................................................................................................4
1.5.3.1 Analog Signal Outputs ...................................................................................4
1.5.3.2 D/A Converters ..............................................................................................5
1.5.3.3 Digital Upconverters ......................................................................................5
1.5.3.4 Sample and Reference Clocks .......................................................................5
1.5.3.5 External Triggers .............................................................................................5
1.5.4 Physical and Environmental .............................................................................................5
Chapter 2: Hardware Description
2.1 Front of Chassis with Door Closed ....................................................................................................7
Figure 2−1: Front of Chassis with Door Closed.............................................................................7
2.1.1 Front Panel Door .................................................................................................................7
2.1.2 Reset and Start Buttons, EMI Filter ..................................................................................7
2.2 Front of Chassis with Door Open.......................................................................................................8
Figure 2−2: Front of Chassis with Door Open ...............................................................................8
2.2.1 Optional DVD Drive, USB Ports .......................................................................................8
2.2.2 QuickPac Drive Canisters ..................................................................................................8
2.3 Inner Chassis .........................................................................................................................................9
Figure 2−3: Inner Chassis of a Talon RTX System........................................................................9
2.4 Back of Chassis....................................................................................................................................10
Figure 2−4: Back of Chassis .............................................................................................................10
2.4.1 Ethernet, Audio, Video, and USB Connections ............................................................10
2.4.2 Pentek Board I/O Connections ......................................................................................10
2.4.3 Power Connector ..............................................................................................................10
2.5 Chassis Cooling and Filtering...........................................................................................................11
2.6 Power Supply......................................................................................................................................11
2.7 Military Specifications .......................................................................................................................11
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Chapter 3: Pentek Board I/O Connections
3.1 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 Input and Output Connections....................................................... 13
3.1.1 Clock Input Connector − CLK ........................................................................................13
3.1.2 Trigger Input Connectors − TRIG .................................................................................. 13
3.1.3 Analog Output Connectors − OUT 1, 2 ........................................................................ 13
3.1.4 Analog Input Connectors − IN 1, 2 ................................................................................ 14
3.2 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 LEDs.................................................................................................... 14
3.2.1 Link LED − Green ............................................................................................................14
3.2.2 User LED − Green ............................................................................................................14
3.2.3 Master LED − Yellow ....................................................................................................... 14
3.2.4 PPS LED − Green .............................................................................................................. 14
3.2.5 Over Temperature LED − Red .......................................................................................14
3.2.6 Clock LED − Green ..........................................................................................................14
3.2.7 DAC Underrun LED − Red .............................................................................................15
3.2.8 ADC Overload LEDs − Red ............................................................................................15
3.3 Pentek Cobalt Model 78671 Input and Output Connections....................................................... 15
3.3.1 Clock Input Connector − CLK IN ..................................................................................15
3.3.2 Trigger Input Connectors − TRIG .................................................................................. 15
3.3.3 Analog Output Connectors − OUT 1, 2, 3, 4 ................................................................ 15
3.3.4 Sync Bus Connectors − SYNC A, SYNC B .................................................................... 15
3.4 Pentek Cobalt Model 78671 LEDs.................................................................................................... 16
3.4.1 User LED − Green ............................................................................................................16
3.4.2 Link LED − Green ............................................................................................................16
3.4.3 Over Temperature LED − Red .......................................................................................16
3.4.4 Clock LED − Green ..........................................................................................................16
3.4.5 DAC Alarm LEDs − Red ................................................................................................. 16
3.4.6 DAC Underrun LEDs − Red ........................................................................................... 16
Chapter 4: Starting the System
4.1 Unpacking the Unit............................................................................................................................17
4.2 Power Requirements.......................................................................................................................... 17
4.3 Preparing the System for Operation................................................................................................ 17
4.4 Boot−Up Sequence ............................................................................................................................. 18
4.5 Maintenance........................................................................................................................................ 18
4.6 Safety Precautions and Warnings ................................................................................................... 19
Rev: 1.0
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Chapter 5: Configuring the Talon System
5.1 Introduction: SystemFlow Software ................................................................................................21
5.2 Launching the SystemFlow GUI ......................................................................................................21
5.3 Description of the SystemFlow GUI ................................................................................................22
Figure 5−1: Talon Main Configuration Screen ............................................................................22
5.4 Configure Screen: Talon System Block Diagram ...........................................................................23
Figure 5−2: Configure Screen − Talon System Sample Block Diagram .................................23
5.5 Configuring a Remote Server............................................................................................................24
Figure 5−3: Configure Screen − Remote Server Configuration................................................24
5.6 Configuring the Talon System Using a Profile...............................................................................24
Figure 5−4: Configure Screen − Profile Configuration Buttons...............................................25
5.6.1 Loading a profile ...............................................................................................................25
5.6.2 Saving a Profile .................................................................................................................25
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel...................................................26
5.7.1 Configuration Panel .........................................................................................................26
Figure 5−5: Configuration Panel....................................................................................26
5.7.2 Configuring Clock Parameters .......................................................................................27
Figure 5−6: Clock Parameters Configuration Screen.................................................27
Table 5−1: Clock Parameters ..........................................................................................28
5.7.3 Configuring Input Channel Parameters ........................................................................29
Figure 5−7: Example of Input Channel Parameters Configuration Screen...........29
Table 5−2: Input Channel Parameters ..........................................................................30
5.7.4 Configuring Output Channel Parameters .....................................................................31
Figure 5−8: Output Channel Parameters Configuration Screen..............................31
Table 5−3: Channel 1 Output Parameters ....................................................................32
5.8 Sync Guidelines ..................................................................................................................................33
Chapter 6: Recording a Signal
6.1 The Record Screen ..............................................................................................................................35
Figure 6−1: Record Screen................................................................................................................35
6.2 Record Channel Controls ..................................................................................................................36
Figure 6−2: Record Screen: Channel Controls..............................................................................36
6.2.1 File Name and Browse .....................................................................................................36
6.2.2 Overwrite ...........................................................................................................................37
6.2.3 Record Until Manual Stop ...............................................................................................37
6.2.4 Record by Time .................................................................................................................37
6.2.5 Record by File Size ...........................................................................................................37
6.2.6 Loop ....................................................................................................................................38
6.2.7 Master Record ...................................................................................................................39
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Chapter 6: Recording a Signal (continued)
6.2 Record Channel Controls (continued)
6.2.8 Record Button ...................................................................................................................39
6.2.9 Stop Button ........................................................................................................................39
6.2.10 Status ..................................................................................................................................39
6.2.11 Channel Position (MSs) ...................................................................................................39
6.2.12 Data Rate (MS/s) .............................................................................................................. 39
6.2.13 Data Loss ........................................................................................................................... 40
6.3 Master Record Controls..................................................................................................................... 41
Figure 6−3: Record Screen − Master Controls.............................................................................. 41
6.3.1 Master Record Button ......................................................................................................41
6.3.2 Master Stop Button ..........................................................................................................41
6.3.3 Record Until Stop − Master Recording ......................................................................... 41
6.3.4 Record by Time − Master Recording .............................................................................42
6.3.5 Master Status ..................................................................................................................... 42
6.3.6 Master Data Loss .............................................................................................................. 42
6.3.7 Master Current Position (Secs) .......................................................................................43
6.3.8 Record GPS Position ........................................................................................................43
6.3.9 Signal Viewer ....................................................................................................................43
6.3.10 Programmable Recording Start Time ............................................................................43
Figure 6−4: Start Time ..................................................................................................... 43
Chapter 7: Recorded Data Format
7.1 IF data .................................................................................................................................................. 45
7.2 Baseband data.....................................................................................................................................45
7.3 File Header Format ............................................................................................................................46
Table 7−1: Talon File Header Format ............................................................................................46
Chapter 8: Playing a Recorded File
8.1 The Play Screen................................................................................................................................... 49
Figure 8−1: Play Screen ....................................................................................................................49
8.2 Play Channel Controls....................................................................................................................... 50
Figure 8−2: Play Screen: Channel Controls..................................................................................50
8.2.1 File Name and Browse .....................................................................................................50
8.2.2 Start Position .....................................................................................................................50
8.2.3 Play Until Manual Stop ...................................................................................................50
8.2.4 Play by Time .....................................................................................................................51
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Chapter 8: Playing a Recorded File (continued)
8.2 Play Channel Controls (continued)
8.2.5 Play by File Size ................................................................................................................51
8.2.6 Loop ....................................................................................................................................51
8.2.7 Master Play ........................................................................................................................52
8.2.8 Play Button ........................................................................................................................52
8.2.9 Stop Button ........................................................................................................................52
8.2.10 Status ..................................................................................................................................52
8.2.11 Channel Position (MSs) ....................................................................................................52
8.2.12 Data Rate (MS/s) ..............................................................................................................52
8.2.13 Data Loss ............................................................................................................................53
8.3 Master Play Controls..........................................................................................................................54
Figure 8−3: Play Screen − Master Controls...................................................................................54
8.3.1 Master Play Button ...........................................................................................................54
8.3.2 Master Stop Button ...........................................................................................................54
8.3.3 Play Until Manual Stop − Master Playback ..................................................................54
8.3.4 Play by Time − Master Playback ....................................................................................55
8.3.5 Master Status .....................................................................................................................55
8.3.6 Master Data Loss ..............................................................................................................55
8.3.7 Master Current Position (Secs) .......................................................................................55
8.3.8 File Viewer .........................................................................................................................55
Chapter 9: Monitoring Input Signals with Signal Viewer
9.1 Introduction: the Signal Viewer .......................................................................................................57
9.2 Signal Viewer Displays and Display Controls ...............................................................................58
Figure 9−1: Signal Viewer (Default Display)...............................................................................58
Figure 9−2: Samples/Time Switch..................................................................................................58
Figure 9−3: Amplitude Switch (Time Display)............................................................................59
Figure 9−4: Display Type Switch....................................................................................................59
Figure 9−5: Signal Viewer with Frequency−Time−Intensity Display in Left Window ......60
Figure 9−6: Amplitude Switch (Frequency Magnitude Display).............................................60
9.3 Input Controls .....................................................................................................................................61
9.3.1 Resume, Pause and Close ................................................................................................61
Figure 9−7: Resume, Pause and Close Buttons ...........................................................61
9.3.2 Channel Index and Board Index .....................................................................................61
Figure 9−8: Channel Index and Board Index...............................................................61
9.3.3 FFT Size ..............................................................................................................................61
Figure 9−9: FFT Size .........................................................................................................61
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Chapter 9: Monitoring Input Signals with Signal Viewer (continued)
9.3 Input Controls (continued)
9.3.4 Spectrum Averaging ........................................................................................................62
Figure 9−10: Averaging Control ....................................................................................62
9.3.5 Baseband / IF Frequency Scale ......................................................................................62
Figure 9−11: Baseband / IF Frequency Scale Control................................................62
9.4 Data Displayed ...................................................................................................................................63
9.4.1 System, Server and Board Model ................................................................................... 63
Figure 9−12: Example of System, Server, and Board Model Fields........................ 63
9.4.2 Signal Characteristics .......................................................................................................63
Figure 9−13: Signal Characteristics............................................................................... 63
9.4.3 Amplitude Calculator ......................................................................................................64
Figure 9−14: Amplitude Calculator............................................................................... 64
9.4.4 Distortion Calculator ....................................................................................................... 65
Figure 9−15: Distortion Calculator................................................................................ 65
9.4.5 Resolution Bandwidth Calculator ................................................................................. 65
Figure 9−16: Resolution Bandwidth Calculator .........................................................65
Chapter 10: Analyzing Recorded Signals with File Viewer
10.1 Introduction: the File Viewer............................................................................................................ 67
10.2 Differences Between the Signal Viewer and the File Viewer.......................................................67
10.3 Selecting a File to View......................................................................................................................68
Figure 10−1: Playback Controls ......................................................................................................68
Figure 10−2: File Viewer File Selection Browser ........................................................................69
10.4 Display and Playback Controls........................................................................................................ 70
Figure 10−3: Example of File Viewer.............................................................................................70
10.4.1 Display Controls ...............................................................................................................70
10.4.2 Playback Controls ............................................................................................................70
Figure 10−4: Play, Pause and Quit buttons.................................................................. 71
10.4.3 Playback Speed .................................................................................................................71
Figure 10−5: Playback Speed Switch............................................................................ 71
10.4.4 Spectrum Averaging ........................................................................................................72
Figure 10−6: Exponential Averaging Control .............................................................72
10.5 Data Displayed ...................................................................................................................................73
10.5.1 Board, System, Time Stamp, and Optional GPS ..........................................................73
Figure 10−7: Board, System, Time Stamp, and Optional GPS ................................ 73
10.5.2 Signal Characteristics .......................................................................................................73
Figure 10−8: Signal Characteristics............................................................................... 73
Rev: 1.0
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Chapter 10: Analyzing Recorded Signals with File Viewer (continued)
10.5 Data Displayed (continued)
10.5.3 Distortion Calculator ........................................................................................................74
Figure 10−9: Distortion Calculator ................................................................................74
10.5.4 Amplitude Calculator ......................................................................................................75
Figure 10−10: Amplitude Calculator .............................................................................75
10.6 Data Extraction Utility .......................................................................................................................76
Figure 10−11: Playback Controls.....................................................................................................76
Figure 10−12: Data Extraction Utility.............................................................................................76
Chapter 11: Display Controls for Signal and File Viewer
11.1 Display Zooming ................................................................................................................................77
Figure 11−1: Time and FFT (Frequency) Display Controls .......................................................77
Figure 11−2: Time and FFT (Frequency) Display Controls .......................................................77
11.1.1 Horizontal Zoom ..............................................................................................................78
11.1.2 Vertical Zoom ....................................................................................................................78
11.1.3 Windowed Zoom ..............................................................................................................78
11.1.4 Full Screen ..........................................................................................................................78
11.1.5 Point Zoom ........................................................................................................................78
11.1.6 Point Shrink .......................................................................................................................78
11.2 Display Panning..................................................................................................................................79
11.3 Reset Scale − Time and Frequency Displays ..................................................................................79
Figure 11−3: Reset Scale Buttons − Time and Frequency Displays.........................................79
11.4 Cursor Operation................................................................................................................................80
Figure 11−4: Create Cursor Menu...................................................................................................80
Figure 11−5: New Free Cursor 0 ......................................................................................................80
Figure 11−6: Cursor 0 Properties.....................................................................................................81
Figure 11−7: Cursor 0 Attributes.....................................................................................................82
Figure 11−8: Cursor Window with Single Free Cursor and Single−Plot Cursor ..................82
Rev: 1.0
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Table of Contents
Rev: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 1
Chapter 1: Overview of the Pentek Talon® RTX 2767
This chapter provides an overview of this operating manual and an overview of the
Pentek Talon
• Section 1.1 lists the features of the Talon recording system.
• Section 1.2 describes how the Talon system operates.
• Section 1.3 describes the Talon system’s hardware.
• Section 1.4 describes the Talon system’s software.
• Section 1.5 provides the Talon system’s specifications.
®
RTX 2767 recording system. The following information is provided:
1.1 Features of the Pentek Talon RTX 2767
Pentek's Talon RTX 2767 recording system offers the following features:
• Designed to meet MIL−STD−810 shock and vibration
• Designed to meet EMC/EMI per MIL−STD−461 EMC
•4U 19−inch rugged rackmount PC server chassis, 22 inches deep
®
•Windows
7 Professional workstation with Intel® Core™ i7 processor
• 400 MHz 14−bit A/Ds or 500 MHz 12−bit A/Ds
• 800 MHz 16−bit D/As
•Real−time aggregate recording rates of up to 5.0 GB/sec
• 200 MHz maximum record and playback signal bandwidths
• Capable of record/playback of IF frequencies to 700 MHz
• Up to four removable QuickPac™ SSD (Solid State Drive) drive canisters with eight
drives each, located on the front panel
• Up to 30 terabytes of storage to NTFS RAID disk array
®
• SystemFlow
• C−callable API for integration of recorder into application
• File headers include time stamping and recording parameters
• Optional GPS for time and position stamping
GUI with Signal Viewer analysis tool
Rev.: 1.0
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1.2 Basic Principles of Operation
The Talon RTX 2767 multiband record and playback system is built to operate under
harsh conditions. Designed to withstand high vibration and operating temperatures,
the RTX 2767 is intended for military, airborne and UAV applications requiring a rug
ged system. With scalable A/Ds, D/As, and SSD storage, the RTX 2767 can be config−
ured to stream data to and from disk at rates as high as 5.0 GB/sec.
The RTX 2767 uses Pentek’s high−powered Virtex−6−based Cobalt® boards that pro−
vide flexibility in channel count, with optional digital downconversion capabilities.
Optional 16−bit, 800 MHz D/A converters with digital upconversion allow real−time
reproduction of recorded signals.
A/D sampling rates, DDC (Digital Downconversion) decimations and bandwidths,
D/A sampling rates and DUC (Digital Upconversion) interpolations are among the
GUI−selectable system parameters, providing a fully−programmable system capable of
recording and reproducing a wide range of signals. Optional GPS time and position
stamping allows you to record this critical signal information.
−
1.3 Hardware
The Talon RTX 2767 uses a shock− and vibration−isolated inner chassis and solid−state
drives to assure reliability under harsh conditions. The chassis uses an in−line EMI fil
ter along with rear−panel MIL−style connectors to meet MIL−STD−461 emissions
specifications.
Up to four front−panel removable QuickPac drive canisters are provided, each con−
taining up to eight SSDs. Each drive canister can hold up to 7.6 TB of data storage and
allows for quick and easy removal of mission−critical data.
Forced−air cooling draws air from the front of the chassis and pushes it out the back via
exhaust fans. A hinged front door with a serviceable air filter provides protection
against dust and sand.
1.4 Software
The Talon RTX 2767 includes the SystemFlow® recording software. SystemFlow fea−
tures a Windows−based GUI (Graphical User Interface) that provides a simple and
intuitive means to configure and control the recorder. Custom configurations can be
stored as profiles and later loaded as needed, allowing the user to select preconfigured
settings with a single click.
SystemFlow also includes signal viewing and analysis tools that allow you to monitor
the signal before, during, and after a recording session. These tools include a virtual
oscilloscope and a virtual spectrum analyzer.
−
Rev.: 1.0
Built on a Windows 7 Professional workstation, the RTX 2767 allows you to install
post−processing and analysis tools to allow you to operate on the recorded data. The
RTX 2767 records data to the native NTFS file system, providing immediate access to
the recorded data. Data can be off−loaded via two rear−access gigabit Ethernet ports,
two USB 3.0 ports, or up to four USB 2.0 ports.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 3
1.4 Software (continued)
SystemFlow includes a complete API (Application Programming Interface) supporting
control and status queries of all operations of the RTX 2767 from a custom application.
For information about using the SystemFlow API, refer to the SystemFlow API User’s
Development Guide (800.27xx2).
1.5 Specifications
1.5.1 PC Workstation (standard configuration)
• Operating System: 64−bit Microsoft® Windows® 7 Professional
®
• Processor: Intel
• Clock Speed: 3.0 GHz or greater
•SDRAM: 8 GB
• Data Storage:
Core™ i7 processor
• Style: Up to four front−panel QuickPac drive canisters; up to
eight SSDs contained in each canister
• Location: Front panel
• Capacity: Up to 30 TB
• Number of Drives: Up to 32 total
• Supported RAID Levels: 0, 1, 5, and 6
1.5.2 Analog Recording Inputs
1.5.2.1 Analog Signal Inputs
• Connector Type: Rear−panel female SMA connectors
• Input Type: Transformer−coupled
• Full Scale Input: +5 dBm into 50 ohms
• 3 dB Passband: 300 kHz to 700 MHz
1.5.2.2 A/D Converters
• Type: Texas Instruments ADS5463 or ADS5474 (option −014)
• Sampling Rate (ƒ
MHz (option −014)
• Resolution: 12 bits or 14 bits (option −014)
• A/D Record Bandwidth: ƒ
•Anti−Aliasing Filters: External, user−supplied
): 20 MHz to 500 MHz or 20 MHz to 400
s
/2 = Nyquist bandwidth
s
Rev.: 1.0
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1.5 Specifications (continued)
1.5.2 Analog Recording Inputs (continued)
1.5.2.3 Digital Downconverter
•Type: Virtex−6 FPGA, Pentek DDC IP core
• Decimation (D): 2 to 65,536
• IF Center Frequency Tuning: DC to ƒ
• DDC Usable Bandwidth: 0.4*ƒ
1.5.2 Analog Recording Inputs (continued)
1.5.2.4 Sample and Reference Clocks
• External Sample Clock: Sine wave, 0 to +10 dBm, AC−
coupled, 50 ohms 20 to 500 MHz, common to all A/Ds
• VCXO Sample Clock: Programmable, 20 to 500 MHz, phase−
locked to 10 MHz reference, common to all A/Ds
• Reference Clock: Sine wave, 0 to +10 dBm, AC−coupled, 50
ohms, 10 MHz, used for phase−locking the VCXO
• Connector Type: Rear panel female SMA connector for
external sample or reference clock input
1.5.2.5 External Trigger
• Number: One common trigger for all input channels
s
/D
, 32 bits
s
Rev.: 1.0
• Input Level: LVTTL with selectable rising or falling edge
• Connector Type: Rear panel female SMA connector
1.5.3 Analog Playback Outputs
1.5.3.1 Analog Signal Outputs
• Output Type: Rear−panel female SMA connectors
• Full Scale Output: +4 dBm into 50 ohms
• 3 dB Passband: 300 kHz to 700 MHz
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 5
1.5 Specifications (continued)
1.5.3 Analog Playback Outputs (continued)
1.5.3.2 D/A Converters
• Type: Texas Instruments DAC5688 or DAC3484, depending
on option set
• Output Sampling Rate: Up to 800 MHz or 1.25 GHz
•Resolution: 16 bits
• Input Sample Data Rate: 250 or 312.5 MHz
• Output IF: Up to 400 MHz or 625 MHz
1.5.3.3 Digital Upconverters
•Type: Virtex−6 FPGA, Pentek interpolation IP core
• Overall Interpolation: 2 to 65,536 including D/A
1.5.3.4 Sample and Reference Clocks
• External Sample Clock: Sine wave, 0 to +10 dBm, AC−
coupled, 50 ohms 800 MHz or 1.25 GHz, common to all D/As
• VCXO Sample Clock: Programmable, up to 1.25 GHz, phase−
locked to 10 MHz reference, common to all D/As
• Reference Clock: Sine wave, 0 to +10 dBm, AC−coupled, 50
ohms, 10 MHz, used for phase−locking the VCXO
• Connector Type: Rear panel female SMA connector for
external sample or reference clock input
1.5.3.5 External Triggers
• Number: One common trigger for all output channels
• Input Level: LVTTL with selectable rising or falling edge
• Connector Type: Rear panel female SMA connector
1.5.4 Physical and Environmental
• Dimensions: 19" W x 22" D x 7" H
• Weight: 50 lb, approximately
• Operating Temp: –20° to +50° C
• Storage Temp: –40° to +85° C
Rev.: 1.0
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1.5 Specifications (continued)
1.5.4 Physical and Environmental (continued)
• Relative Humidity: 10% to 95%, non−condensing
• Operating Shock: Designed to MIL−STD 810F, method 514.5, procedures
I and VI
• Operating Vibration: Designed to MIL−STD 810F, method 514.5,
procedure I
• EMI/EMC: Designed to MIL−STD 461E, CE101, CE102, CS101,
CS113,RE101,RE102, RS101, RS103
• Input Power: 85 to 264 VAC, 47– 400 Hz, 600 W max.
Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 7
Figure 2−1: Front of Chassis with Door Closed
Chapter 2: Hardware Description
This chapter describes the chassis of Pentek’s Talon RTX 2767.
2.1 Front of Chassis with Door Closed
Figure 2−1 shows the Talon RTX 2767 with the door closed.
2.1.1 Front Panel Door
The front panel door swings open on a hinge on the right side after you
unscrew the two larger thumb screws on the left side. This door covers the
optional DVD drive and the QuickPac removable drive packs. The four
smaller screws on the front panel door hold the dust filter in place. You can
remove the dust filter by removing these screws when the door is open.
2.1.2 Reset and Start Buttons, EMI Filter
To the left of the door are the start and reset buttons for the system, as well
as an EMI filter covering the front space to the left of the door.
Rev.: 1.0
Page 18
Page 8 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
Figure 2−2: Front of Chassis with Door Open
2.2 Front of Chassis with Door Open
Figure 2−2 shows the Talon RTX 2767 with the door open.
Rev.: 1.0
2.2.1 Optional DVD Drive, USB Ports
The optional DVD drive as well as two USB ports are located on the left side
of the area covered by the chassis door.
2.2.2 QuickPac Drive Canisters
Up to four removable QuickPac drive canisters occupy the space behind the
chassis door. Each QuickPac canister can hold up to eight solid state drives
(SSDs). Each drive is secured with four thumb screws. A dust filter on the
back of the door protects the drives.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 9
Figure 2−3: Inner Chassis of a Talon RTX System
2.3 Inner Chassis
Figure 2−3 shows the inner chassis of a Talon RTX system. To enable them to withstand
conditions of high vibration and shock, all
chassis that contains all the critical system components.
Talon RTX systems feature a floating inner
This inner chassis is sus
transmitted shock and vibration energy. This allows the system to perform reliably in
aircraft, ships, ground vehicles, UAVs or any other environments that are subject to
shock and vibration.
pended using multi−axis mounts that attenuate externally
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 10 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
Figure 2−4: Back of Chassis
2.4 Back of Chassis
The rear view of a Talon RTX 2767 is shown in Figure 2−4 below. This may vary
depending on the options chosen for the system.
2.4.1 Ethernet, Audio, Video, and USB Connections
These connectors are located on the left side of the back of the chassis. The
operating system drive can be internally hard−mounted or can be made
removable.
2.4.2 Pentek Board I/O Connections
The Pentek board I/O connectors are bulkhead−mounted SMA connectors.
These are connected internally to the front panel(s) of the Pentek board(s)
used in the system. The number and model of the Pentek boards will vary
depending on the options you selected, so the appearance of this section of
the back of the chassis will vary.
2.4.3 Power Connector
A four−pin 38999 power connector is located on the right side of the back of
the chassis. Refer to Section 2.6 for information about the power supply.
Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 11
2.5 Chassis Cooling and Filtering
Every Talon RTX rackmount recorder includes a high−powered, forced−air cooling
system, which allows the transfer of heat from hot system components out the back of
the chassis. Cool air is pulled from the front of the system through the QuickPac drive
packs and forced over the hottest system components to ensure adequate cooling.
High−powered fans can be controlled via system software to allow the system to run
quietly with lower cooling levels or at maximum air flow levels. This can be adjusted to
suit your application.
Every RTX recorder includes the filtering necessary to protect the system as well as the
surrounding operating environment. EMI filters are placed on the front and rear of the
chassis to protect the surrounding environment from radiated emissions. A removable
front panel filter protects the system against dust and sand.
2.6 Power Supply
Every Talon RTX rackmount recorder includes a 600−Watt, 85 to 264 V, 47 to 400 Hz
AC power supply. The power supply has an inline EMI filter to protect against con
ducted emissions and is isolated from the other electronics in the system via an isolated
chassis compartment.
The 400−Hz rating allows every RTX rackmount recorder to operate in aircraft and
other environments where smaller, 400 Hz generators are used. For applications that
require DC power, 24 V and 28 V DC power supplies are available to replace the AC
power supply.
2.7 Military Specifications
All Talon RTX rackmount recorders are designed to meet military specifications for
temperature, altitude, shock, vibration, radiated emissions, conducted emissions, ESD,
sand, and dust. The following list contains these military specifications.
•Vibration: MIL−STD−810F, method 514.5
•Shock: MIL−STD−810F, method 516.5
• EMI/EMC: MIL−STD−461E, CE101, CE102, CS101 CS114, RE101, RE102, RS101, RS103
−
•ESD: MIL−STD−1686A
• Sand and Dust: MIL−STD−810F, method 510
Rev.: 1.0
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Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 13
Chapter 3: Pentek Board I/O Connections
The Talon RTX 2767 system uses Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 and 78671 PCIe boards.
This chapter describes the connections and LEDs on these boards. More information
about these boards can be found in the following manuals:
• Model 71650 Operating Manual (800.71650)
• Model 71651 Addendum Manual (800.71651)
• Model 71670 Operating Manual (800.71670)
• Model 71671 Addendum Manual (800.71671)
• Model 78651 Installation Manual (800.78651)
• Model 78671 Installation Manual (800.78671)
3.1 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 Input and Output Connections
Model 78651 provides six SSMC coaxial connectors for input/output of clock and
analog signals, and a 26−pin sync bus input/output connector. These connectors are
described in the following subsections.
3.1.1 Clock Input Connector − CLK
Model 78651 has one SSMC coaxial connector, labeled CLK, for input of an
external sample clock. The external clock signal must be a sine wave or
square wave of +0 dBm to +12 dBm, with a frequency range from 10 to 500
MHz.
3.1.2 Trigger Input Connectors − TRIG
Model 78651 has one SSMC coaxial connector, labeled TRIG, for input of an
external trigger. The external trigger signal must be an LVTTL signal.
NOTE:
The TRIG input is 5V tolerant but it must NOT have any negative
voltage applied.
3.1.3 Analog Output Connectors − OUT 1, 2
Model 78651 has two SSMC coaxial connectors for analog signal outputs,
labeled OUT 1 and 2: one for each DAC5688 output.
The analog output signal is within the range of +4 dBm. This output is
driven by an RF transformer into 50 ohm output impedance.
Rev.: 1.0
Page 24
Page 14 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
3.1 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 Input and Output Connections (continued)
3.1.4 Analog Input Connectors − IN 1, 2
Model 78651 has two SSMC coaxial connectors for analog signal inputs,
labeled IN 1 and 2, one for each ADC input channel.
The analog input signal has a full.scale level of +5 dBm. Each input drives an
RF transformer, with 50 ohm input impedance.
3.2 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 LEDs
The Pentek Model 78651 has nine LED indicators, which are described in the following
subsections.
3.2.1 Link LED − Green
The green LNK LED illuminates when a link has been established over the
PCIe interface.
3.2.2 User LED − Green
The green USR LED is for user applications.
3.2.3 Master LED − Yellow
The yellow MAS LED illuminates when this Model 7865x is set as the sync
bus Master. When only a single 78651 is used, it must be a Master.
3.2.4 PPS LED − Green
The green PPS LED illuminates when a valid PPS signal is detected and will
blink at the rate of the PPS signal.
3.2.5 Over Temperature LED − Red
The red TMP LED illuminates when an over−temperature or over−voltage
condition is indicated by any of the temperature/voltage sensors on the
Model 78651.
3.2.6 Clock LED − Green
Rev.: 1.0
The green CLK LED illuminates when a valid sample clock is detected. For
reference clock mode, this LED indicates lock to the reference clock.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 15
3.2 Pentek Cobalt Model 78651 LEDs (continued)
3.2.7 DAC Underrun LED − Red
The red UR LED illuminates when the DAC5688 FIFO is out of data.
3.2.8 ADC Overload LEDs − Red
These are two red OV overload LEDs, one for each A/D input.
3.3 Pentek Cobalt Model 78671 Input and Output Connections
Model 78671 provides six SSMC coaxial connectors for input/output of clock and
analog signals, and a 26−pin sync bus input/output connector. These connectors are
described in the following subsections.
3.3.1 Clock Input Connector − CLK IN
Model 78671 has one SSMC coaxial connector, labeled CLK IN, for input of
an external sample or reference clock. The external clock signal must be a
sine wave or square wave of 0 dBm to +10 dBm, AC−coupled, into 50 ohms.
This input accepts a 10 to 1250 MHz sample clock or a 0 or 200 MHz refer−
ence clock.
3.3.2 Trigger Input Connectors − TRIG
Model 78671 has one SSMC coaxial connector, labeled TRIG, for input of an
external gate or trigger TTL signal.
NOTE:
The front panel TRIG input is 5V tolerant but it must NOT have
any negative voltage applied.
3.3.3 Analog Output Connectors − OUT 1, 2, 3, 4
Model 78671 has four SSMC coaxial connectors for analog signal outputs,
labeled OUT 1, 2, 3, and 4: one for each DAC3484 output.
The analog output signal is within the range of +4 dBm. This output is
driven by an RF transformer into 50 ohm output impedance.
3.3.4 Sync Bus Connectors − SYNC A, SYNC B
The front panel has two 19−pin Sync connectors, labeled SYNC A and
SYNC B, which provide sync and gate inputs for DAC timing control. These
pins are differential 2.5V CML input signals.
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 16 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
3.4 Pentek Cobalt Model 78671 LEDs
The Pentek Model 78671 has eight LED indicators, which are described in the following
subsections.
3.4.1 User LED − Green
The green USR LED is for user applications.
3.4.2 Link LED − Green
The green LNK LED illuminates when a link has been established over the
PCIe interface.
3.4.3 Over Temperature LED − Red
The red TMP LED illuminates when an over−temperature or over−voltage
condition is indicated by any of the temperature/voltage sensors on the
Model 78671.
3.4.4 Clock LED − Green
The green CLK LED illuminates when a valid clock signal is detected. If the
LED is not illuminated, no clock has been detected.
3.4.5 DAC Alarm LEDs − Red
There are two red ALM alarm LEDs, one for each DAC3484 device. Each
LED illuminates when the associated DAC3484 Alarm output is active.
3.4.6 DAC Underrun LEDs − Red
There are two red UR underrun LEDs, one for each DAC3484 device. Each
LED illuminates when the associated DAC channel FIFO is out of data.
Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTR 2747 Operating Manual Page 17
Chapter 4: Starting the System
This chapter describes how to set up and start your Talon system:
• Section 4.1 covers unpacking the unit.
• Section 4.2 provides power requirements.
• Section 4.3 describes how to prepare the system for operation.
• Section 4.4 describes the Talon system’s boot−up sequence.
• Section 4.5 provides information about maintenance.
• Section 4.6 provides safety precautions.
4.1 Unpacking the Unit
Your Talon recording system was shipped in a specially designed shipping box. Upon
receipt, inspect the outside of the box for any damage in shipping. If damage is evident
and the unit shows physical damage as well, report the damage to the shipping carrier.
4.2 Power Requirements
See Section 2.6.
4.3 Preparing the System for Operation
Follow the steps below to prepare the system for operation.
1) Make sure the Talon system and all equipment to be attached is powered off.
2) If connecting to a network, attach an Ethernet cable.
3) Attach a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
4) Attach signal I/O cables from external equipment to the Talon recording system.
5) Attach the Talon recording system power cord to the power source.
6) Turn on Talon recording system power by pressing the power switch.
7) Apply power to the connected equipment.
Rev.: 2.1
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Page 18 Talon RTR 2747 Operating Manual
4.4 Boot−Up Sequence
The following sequence of events will occur during a normal boot−up sequence.
1) Windows 7 will boot completely.
2) Windows Desktop should appear.
3) The Talon system Server will launch automatically in a DOS window.
4) To launch the Talon recording system GUI client, double−click on the Talon "client"
icon.
NOTE:
NOTE:
4.5 Maintenance
When working on or cleaning the Talon recording system, always use a clean, flat
working surface area. Although the unit requires little maintenance, all the components
must be handled with care and according to its specifications.
The GUI takes a few seconds to launch initially. Please wait.
Do not disable the Windows networking interface. The Talon
system’s software uses the Windows networking interface as part
of the node−locking mechanism. If the Windows networking
interface is disabled, the server software will not pass the node−
lock check.
Rev.: 2.1
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Talon RTR 2747 Operating Manual Page 19
WARNING:
4.6 Safety Precautions and Warnings
Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication cables
is hazardous
To avoid a shock hazard, connect and disconnect cables following
the instructions in Section 4.3 when installing, servicing, moving, or
opening the covers of your Talon recording system or attached
devices.
If you keep the power on while adding or removing components or
cables, damage might be caused to the unit or its components. You
might even put yourself in danger of injury.
Only qualified service personnel should service your Talon system.
.
Always handle cables by holding the connector, not the cord
Do not force a connector when trying to plug it into a socket.
If for any reasons the AC power cable becomes damaged or broken,
disconnect the cable immediately and replace it with a new one.
It is important to plug the AC power cord into a grounded three−
prong outlet for security reasons.
Never try to disassemble the grounding plug, as it is a safety feature.
Use only a grounded outlet to keep your computer and yourself safe.
.
Rev.: 2.1
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Rev.: 2.1
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 21
Chapter 5: Configuring the Talon System
This chapter describes how to configure the Talon system using SystemFlow® software:
• Section 5.1 describes the SystemFlow software.
• Section 5.2 describes how to launch the SystemFlow GUI.
• Sections 5.3 and 5.4 describe the SystemFlow GUI and configuration screens.
• Section 5.5 describes how to configure a remote server.
• Section 5.6 describes how to configure the Talon system using a profile.
• Section 5.7 describes how to configure the Talon system using configuration screens.
• Section 5.8 provides some synchronization guidelines.
5.1 Introduction: SystemFlow Software
The Talon system’s SystemFlow software consists of a client application that provides a
user interface and a server application that controls the instrument. The client applica
tion consists of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) running on a Microsoft Windows® 7
platform. Communication between the server and client application take place using
the standard sockets protocol.
The GUI client is controlled by the SystemFlow operator and communicates with the
Talon system server, sending specific commands and system parameters to the Talon
system server to set up the system and to instruct it to perform specific actions.
SystemFlow includes a complete API (Application Programming Interface) supporting
control and status queries of all operations of the Talon system from a custom applica
tion. For information about using the SystemFlow API, refer to the SystemFlow API
User’s Development Guide (800.27xx2).
5.2 Launching the SystemFlow GUI
The Talon server is a Windows application and it is automatically launched when the
Talon system is started. The Talon server window is minimized by default and appears
as a desktop icon. You should never close the server and you do not need to touch it.
However, in case of trouble or unexpected operation, the server DOS window can be a
valuable source of status information because it displays a script of server transactions
and operations.
−
−
For proper operations, the Talon system’s GUI client requires the Talon system server
to be running. Since the server should be running by default, to run the GUI client,
simply double click the Talon GUI’s client desktop icon. The GUI can be run either
locally or remotely, over a network connection.
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 22 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.3 Description of the SystemFlow GUI
Upon launching, the GUI displays a Configure screen like the one shown in Figure 5−1.
Rev.: 1.0
Figure 5−1: Talon Main Configuration Screen
The tabs across the top of the screen are used to select the main SystemFlow GUI
eens: Configure, Record, Play, Status and About.
scr
NOTE: The Play tab can only be used if your Talon system has a playback option.
The Configure screen allows you to configure system components and operating
parameters. It also allows you to initialize the Talon system for either local or remote
server operating modes.
The Re
recording. You can also monitor input signals before and during recording using the
Signal Viewer. Chapter 6 describes the Record screen and Chapter 7 describes the
recorded data format.
The Play scre
Viewer. See Chapter 8.
The Status
revision level information for the Talon system’s software. It also contains a link to
Pentek's website.
cord screen allows you to record data to a file and indicates the status of the
en allows you to play back a recorded file or play the signal to the File
screen presents a log of operations and status. The About screen presents
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 23
5.4 Configure Screen: Talon System Block Diagram
The lower right section of the Configure screen shows a block diagram of the Talon
system’s main components (see
• The Pentek PCIe board provides the analog I/O.
• The host processor provides the PC resources, Windows 7 operating system, and PC
interfaces.
• The data drives provide the high−speed disk resources for recording and playback.
Figure 5−2):
Figure 5−2: Configure Screen − Talon System Sample Block Diagram
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 24 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.5 Configuring a Remote Server
The upper middle section of the Configure screen presents the Remote Server Configu−
ration panel as shown in Figure 5−3 below.
Figure 5−3: Configure Screen − Remote Server Configuration
The standard Talon system automatically connects the local Talon server and local
Talon client through a local socket connection at IP address 127.0.0.1. This provides a
complete standalone instrument, fully operational and self−contained.
If you are operating the Talon system as a standalone system, the Remote Server Con−
figuration is not required.
5.6 Configuring the Talon System Using a Profile
Every Talon recorder includes a facility that allows users to save all of the system
parameters into a unique profile. Unlimited profiles can be created and restored with
the click of a single button, minimizing system setup time when switching from one
configuration to another.
A profile represents a complete instrumentation configuration for a Talon system,
including channel or port input/output parameters, recording settings, playback set
tings, etc.
Each profile is stored as a file with the file extension .rts in the default folder:
C:\<RTS_HOME>\Client\Profiles
where <RTS_HOME> is set as an environment variable.
New profiles are easily created by modifying parameters and then saving the new pro−
file under a new name.
−
Rev.: 1.0
The system is factory pre−configured with sample profiles.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 25
5.6 Configuring the Talon System Using a Profile (continued)
The upper left section of the Configure screen presents the Load Profile and Save Pro−
file buttons as shown in Figure 5−4.
Figure 5−4: Configure Screen − Profile Configuration Buttons
5.6.1 Loading a profile
The Load Profile button brings up an Open dialog box showing all available
profiles in the profile folder. Select a profile by double clicking to initialize
the system with the profile settings.
5.6.2 Saving a Profile
The Save Profile button saves the current configuration settings to a profile
file (<profile name>
user.
.rts file), where the “profile name” is supplied by the
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 26 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel
This section describes how to configure the Talon system using the configuration panel,
which allows you to access configuration screens for each channel and the clock. You
can also configure the Talon system using a profile, as described in
5.7.1 Configuration Panel
The lower left section of the Configure screen presents the configuration
panel as shown in Figure 5−5 below. Each tab with a board model number
corresponds to a Pentek board in the system.
Section 5.6.
Rev.: 1.0
Figure 5−5: Configuration Panel
Clicking the Configure button produces a configuration screen, allowing
you to set parameters.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 27
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.2 Configuring Clock Parameters
The Clock parameters are configured by clicking on the Configure button
adjacent to Clock located on the 78651 board tab. The Clock Parameters
configuration screen (Figure 5−6) appears and enables you to set the Clock
parameters as follows:
•Pull−down selections are implemented with an arrow next to the
parameter window.
• User entry fields allow numeric data entry.
•Grayed−out fields are unavailable for change or data entry because of
other configuration selections.
Details about each field on this screen are provided in Table 5−1.
Figure 5−6: Clock Parameters Configuration Screen
NOTE:
You must always configure the clock parameters before you
configure the channel parameters.
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 28 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.2 Configuring Clock Parameters (continued)
Table 5−1: Clock Parameters
Parameter Selection Description
Clock
Source
Clock
Frequency
Reference
Clock
Frequency
A/D Clock
Divider
D/A Clock
Divider
A/D
Sampling
Rate
D/A
Sampling
Rate
Internal Uses the internal VCXO (voltage−controlled crystal oscillator).
External Uses the externally supplied clock to the CLK SSMC connector
<user entry> MHz
<user entry> MHz
<user entry> MHz Enter a reference clock frequency: typically 10 MHz.
drop down menu
selection
drop down menu
selection
If you selected Internal for Clock Source, you must enter the
internal VCXO clock frequency in MHz.
If you selected External for Clock Source, you must enter the
external clock frequency in MHz.
Divides the VCXO or external clock to provide a Channel 1 input
clock rate.
Divides the VCXO or external clock to provide a Channel 1 output
clock rate.
Displays the Channel 1 input clock rate calculated based on the
Channel 1 input clock divider you specified.
Displays the Channel 1 output clock rate calculated based on the
Channel 1 output clock divider you specified.
Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 29
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.3 Configuring Input Channel Parameters
NOTE: You must always configure the clock parameters before you
configure the channel parameters.
The channel parameters are configured by clicking on the Configure button
adjacent to each channel shown on the 786xx board tab. A channel parame−
ters screen (Figure 5−7) appears that enables you to set parameters as fol−
lows:
• Downconversion checkbox (checked or unchecked) determines whether
you are configuring the ADC (unchecked) or the DDC (checked).
•Pull−down selections are implemented with an arrow next to the
parameter window.
• User entry fields allow numeric data entry.
•Grayed−out fields are unavailable for change or data entry because of
other configuration selections.
Details about each field on this screen are provided in Table 5−2.
Figure 5−7: Example of Input Channel Parameters Configuration Screen
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 30 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.3 Configuring Input Channel Parameters (continued)
Table 5−2: Input Channel Parameters
Parameter Selection Description
To enter bandwidth, click the Bandwidth radio button and enter
<user entry> and
Bandwidth
Decimation <user entry>
Downconversion checkbox
Input Source channel
Center
Frequency
Gate/Trigger
a
Mode
Trigger
Gate/Trigger
Polarity
Negative
Sync Source
A/D Sampling
Rate
Disk Data Rate xxx.x MB/s Reports the rate at which this channel will record data to disk.
unit of
measurement
<user entry> MHz
Gate
Positive
Internal Uses the internal VCXO (voltage−controlled crystal oscillator).
b
External Uses the externally supplied clock to the CLK SSMC connector.
xxx.x MHz
a. If you select external triggering, an external LVTTL trigger signal must be connected to the system. If an external LVTTL trigger signal is not connected to the system, false triggers can occur.
b. See Section 5.7 for sync guidelines.
your desired bandwidth. In ADC mode (no downconversion), this
bandwidth is the Nyquist bandwidth. Nyquist bandwidth = fs / (2 x
decimation). In DDC mode, this bandwidth is the usable
bandwidth, using the 80% DDC filter. Usable bandwidth = 80% x fs
/ decimation.
To enter decimation instead of bandwidth, click the Decimation
radio button and enter your desired decimation. See the bandwidth
description (above) for the relationship between bandwidth and
decimation.
Click the box to select or deselect downconversion. Your selection
determines whether you will be configuring ADC or DDC
parameters: unchecked allows ADC configuration; checked allows
DDC configuration.
This selection is only available for DDC configuration. You can
select any of the available ADCs as the input source.
This parameter is only available for DDC configuration. It sets the
Local Oscillator (NCO) frequency which translates that frequency in
the ADC sampled signal down to 0 Hz. Also known
as the tuning frequency.
The ADC/DDC delivers samples only when the logic level of the
Gate/Trigger signal is true and stops delivering samples when
false. The Gate/Trigger signal is accepted on the multi−pin digital
connector on the 786xx panel.
The ADC/DDC delivers samples when the rising or falling edge of
the Gate/Trigger signal occurs and stops delivering samples at the
end of the Record Length. The Gate/Trigger signal is accepted on
the multi−pin digital connector on the 786xx panel.
In Gate mode, the ADC/DDC delivers samples when the logic level
of the Gate/Trigger signal is 1. In Trigger Mode, the ADC/DDC
starts delivering samples at the rising (positive−going) edge of the
Gate/Trigger signal.
In Gate mode, the ADC/DDC delivers samples when the logic level
of the Gate/Trigger signal is 0. In Trigger Mode, the ADC/DDC
starts delivering samples at the falling (negative−going) edge of the
Gate/Trigger signal.
Reports the calculated sampling rate of the ADC based on the
Clock Source, Clock Frequency, and Clock Divider. (See Table
5−1.)
Rev.: 1.0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 31
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.4 Configuring Output Channel Parameters
NOTE: You must always configure the clock parameters before you
configure the output channel parameters.
The output channel parameters are configured by clicking on the Configure
button adjacent to the output channel located on the board tab. A configura−
tion screen appears that enables you to set the parameters as follows:
•Pull−down selections are implemented with an arrow next to the
parameter window.
• User entry fields allow numeric data entry.
•Grayed−out fields are unavailable for change or data entry because of
other configuration selections.
Details about each field on this screen are provided in Table 5−3.
Figure 5−8: Output Channel Parameters Configuration Screen
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 32 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
5.7 Configuring the Talon System Using the Configuration Panel (continued)
5.7.4 Configuring Channel 1 Output Parameters (continued)
Table 5−3: Channel 1 Output Parameters
Parameter Selection Description
<user entry>
Bandwidth
and unit of
measurement
Interpolation <user entry>
To enter bandwidth, click the Bandwidth radio button and enter your
desired bandwidth. This bandwidth is the usable bandwidth, using
the 80% filter. Usable bandwidth = 80% x fs / decimation.
To enter an interpolation value, click the Interpolation radio button
and enter your desired interpolation.
Upconversion checkbox Click the box to select or deselect upconversion.
This parameter is only available for DDC configuration. It sets the
Center
Frequency
Gate/Trigger
a
Mode
<user entry>
None
Local Oscillator (NCO) frequency which translates that frequency
in the ADC sampled signal down to 0 Hz. Also known
as the tuning frequency.
The gating and triggering mode is disabled and the Channel 1
output is always delivering samples.
The Channel 1 output delivers output samples only when the logic
Gate
level of the Gate/Trigger signal is true and stops delivering samples
when false. The Gate/Trigger signal is accepted on the multi−pin
digital connector on the 78651 panel.
The Channel 1 output delivers output samples when the rising or
falling edge of the Gate/Trigger signal occurs and stops delivering
Trigger
samples at the end of the Playback Length. The Gate/Trigger
signal is accepted on the multi−pin digital connector on the 78651
panel.
In Gate Mode, the Channel 1 output delivers samples when the
Gate/Trigger
Polarity
Positive
logic level of the Gate/Trigger signal is 1. In Trigger Mode, the
Channel 1 output starts delivering samples at the rising (positive−
going) edge of the Gate/Trigger signal.
In Gate Mode, the Channel 1 output delivers samples when the
Negative
logic level of the Gate/Trigger signal is 0. In Trigger Mode, the
Channel 1 output starts delivering samples at the falling (negative−
going) edge of the Gate/Trigger signal.
Internal Uses the internal VCXO (voltage−controlled crystal oscillator).
Sync Source
b
External Uses the externally supplied clock to the CLK SSMC connector.
Disk Data Rate xxx.x MHz Reports the data rate at which this channel will record data to disk.
D/A Output
Sample Rate
xxx.x MHz
Reports the calculated D/A output sample rate based on the Clock
Source, Clock Frequency, and Clock Divider.
a. If you select external triggering, an external LVTTL trigger signal must be connected to the system. If an external LVTTL trigger signal is not connected to the system, false triggers can occur.
b. See Section 5.8 for sync guidelines.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 33
5.8 Sync Guidelines
When using your Talon recorder in a multi−channel phase−coherent recording appli−
cation, it is necessary to synchronize the A/D’s clock circuit dividers. Additionally,
when recording data from the DDCs in a multi−channel phase−coherent application,
the DDCs’ local oscillators must be synchronized. A sync pulse can be generated inter
nally or externally to synchronize the clock dividers and DDC local oscillators.
Generating the sync pulse internally will assure that all channels have a consistent
phase offset from channel to channel. While the phase angle of any give channel will
not necessary be the same from one iteration to the next, the relationship between any
one channel and the other channels will remain consistent from iteration to iteration.
Generating the sync pulse externally provides the ability to synchronize the sync pulse
to an external trigger that can be used to start a recording. If you synchronizes the sync
and trigger, the phase angle of any given channel will be consistent from one iteration
to the next. Additionally, the phase offset from channel to channel will be consistent
from one iteration to the next.
−
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Chapter 6: Recording a Signal
This chapter describes how to record a signal with the Talon system:
• Section 6.1 desc
• Section 6.2 describes the record channel controls.
• Section 6.3 describes the master record controls.
ribes the Record screen.
6.1 The Record Screen
Select the Record screen by clicking on the Record tab along the top of the GUI. Figure
6−1 shows an example of the Record screen. The available channels are shown in the
Channel
recording modes, length of recording, and file names.
column on the bottom left of the screen. The Record screen configures the
Figure 6−1: Record Screen
The top section of the Record screen allows
simultaneously and the bottom section allows you to record a single channel.
you to record multiple channels
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6.2 Record Channel Controls
The bottom part of the Record screen contains the record channel controls (see Figure
6−2). These controls allow you to record a single channel independently. You can enter
a filename for each channel to be recorded, set the recording transfer length, start and
stop the recording, and monitor the status of the recording.
Figure 6−2: Record Screen: Channel Controls
6.2.1 File Name and Browse
The name of the file to be recorded is entered by clicking on the Browse but−
ton adjacent to the appropriate resource. This opens up a file directory win−
dow that allows you to enter a new file name or locate an existing file on the
system.
If you select an existing file, data in that file will be overwritten and replaced
with data from the new recording. The extension of the recording file must
be .dat. The selected file name for recording will be displayed in the File
Name window.
NOTE:
The Browse button will automatically navigate to the recording
channel's appropriate data drive. It is important to use this button
since it will assure data is not incorrectly written to an invalid
location. Use of the Browse button will result in the correct full
path being included in the File Name.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 37
6.2 Record Channel Controls (continued)
6.2.2 Overwrite
The software is designed to prevent you from overwriting existing record−
ings on disk. If you want to overwrite existing recordings, you must select
the Overwrite checkbox. If you select Overwrite, the system will not pre−
vent you from overwriting existing recordings nor will it provide any warn−
ing.
Be careful when selecting the Overwrite checkbox and remember that if you
save a profile with the Overwrite checkbox selected, the profile will main−
tain this setting whenever you use it.
6.2.3 Record Until Manual Stop
You can choose to record a signal until you manually press the Stop button
by entering a file Transfer Length or file transfer time of 0.
NOTE:
If you don't manually press Stop, recording will stop automati−
cally when the disk is filled.
6.2.4 Record by Time
To record for a period of time, specify the number of seconds for the record−
ing using the numeric entry field under Transfer Length. This entry accepts
a floating point value, allowing you to specify resolutions smaller than 1
second. After the recording starts, it will automatically stop after the elapsed
time specified.
NOTE:
NOTE:
The minimum record time is 1 millisecond.
If the Transfer Time is greater than the total free disk space, the
recording will stop when the disk is filled.
6.2.5 Record by File Size
To record for a specific number of MSs, specify the number of megasamples
for the recording using the numeric entry field under Transfer Length. After
the recording starts, it will automatically stop after the file size reaches the
specified limit.
NOTE:
NOTE:
The minimum recording time is 1 millisecond. If the number of
MSs represents a record time of under 1 millisecond, you will be
prompted accordingly.
If the Transfer Length is greater than the total free disk space, the
recording will stop when the disk is filled.
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6.2 Record Channel Controls (continued)
6.2.6 Loop
The Record screen offers a Loop recording option (checkbox). Loop record−
ing is the process of recording continuously to disk in a looped manner. If
you want to define the portion of the disk to use for the loop recording, set
the transfer length or time. Alternately, you can choose to not set a transfer
length or time, allowing the system to fill the disk in a looped manner.
In both cases, the recorder will fill the file with data. Once full, the recorder
will reset the file pointer to the beginning and continue to write data. It will
repeatedly do this until you manually stop the looped recording.
The file header contains information about where the oldest and newest
data resides. The timestamp that is associated with the first sample accu−
rately represents the oldest data in the recorded file.
NOTE:
The Loop box is toggled between checked and unchecked by clicking on it
with the mouse:
• If the Loop box is checked, the system will perform loop recording.
• If the Loop box is unchecked, the file will be recorded for the requested
amount of time or length and then recording will stop.
Loop must be selected before starting to record. If the Loop box is checked
and then recording begins, it cannot be unchecked during recording, and
vice−versa.
Loop recording is not recommended for systems with solid state
drives (SSDs) because SSDs have a limited number of write life
cycles (about 3000 writes per flash cell). The extensive use of
looped recording in a Talon system built with SSDs can lead to the
early wear of the storage drives, resulting in poor performance.
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6.2 Record Channel Controls (continued)
6.2.7 Master Record
The Master Record checkboxes allow you to select multiple channels to be
recorded simultaneously. Click on the box for each channel you want to
record so that it shows a check mark. To de−select a channel from Master
Recording, click on the box to remove the check mark. See Section 6.3 for
details.
6.2.8 Record Button
The recording can be manually started for each channel by clicking its
Record button.
6.2.9 Stop Button
The recording can be manually stopped for each channel by clicking its Stop
button.
6.2.10 Status
The Status column will display Stopped or Recording, reflecting the current
operating mode.
6.2.11 Channel Position (MSs)
The current recording position within the file is shown in megasamples in
the Channel Position column. When the recording is stopped manually or
automatically, this field displays the last position of the recording.
6.2.12 Data Rate (MS/s)
During recording, the current recording data rate in megasamples per sec−
ond is shown in the Data Rate column. When the recording is stopped man−
ually or automatically, this field displays the recording rate for the
completed recording.
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6.2 Record Channel Controls (continued)
6.2.13 Data Loss
The Data Loss indicator will light up red if data is not recorded to a file. If
the Data Loss indicator is not lit, then all of the data was recorded success−
fully.
Data loss is flagged by the recorder when any condition that results in a dis−
continuity of the data stream occurs. The Talon recording system flags this
data loss in both the real−time status as well as in the recording’s file header.
The file header also includes a field that contains the location of the last
good (contiguous) data recorded, so the operator can use the portion of the
recording that is still good.
Data loss can happen for a number of reasons. Any time that the storage
drives fail to keep up with the real−time stream of data from either A/D
converters or a digital interface will result in a real−time data loss. This
could happen if the system parameters are set up in a way that results in a
higher aggregate data rate to disk than the system can handle. The following
are other potential causes of data loss:
• An almost full or highly fragmented disk
• Selecting the wrong drive to record each file to
The operator should consider all of these possibilities when observing data
loss and take care to create an environment that results in error−free record−
ing every time.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 41
6.3 Master Record Controls
The master controls for recording are located at the top of the Record screen (Figure 6−
3). These controls allow simultaneous multi−channel recording.
The Master Record checkboxes in the channel controls section at the bottom of the
Record screen (
ing.
Channels can be selected for master recording by clicking on the Master Record box to
show a check mark. Channels can be de−selected from master recording by clicking on
the box to remove the check mark.
All of the channels selected for master recording are controlled by the setting in the
master controls section at the top of the Record screen.
Figure 6−1) allow you to select or deselect channels for master record−
Figure 6−3: Record Screen − Master Controls
6.3.1 Master Record Button
The master recording can be manually started for all selected channels by
clicking the Master Record button.
6.3.2 Master Stop Button
The master recording can be manually stopped for all selected channels by
clicking the Master Stop button.
6.3.3 Record Until Stop − Master Recording
You can choose to master record all selected channels until you manually
press the Stop button by entering a file transfer length of 0 in the Transfer
Time field.
NOTE:
If you don't manually press Stop, recording will stop automati−
cally when the disk is filled.
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6.3 Master Record Controls (continued)
6.3.4 Record by Time − Master Recording
To record for a period of time, set the Transfer Time numeric entry window
to the number of seconds for the master recording. This entry accepts a
floating point value, allowing you to specify resolutions smaller than 1 sec−
ond.
After the recording starts, recording of all master−controlled channels will
automatically stop after the elapsed time specified.
NOTE:
NOTE:
The minimum record time is 1 millisecond.
If the Transfer Length is greater than the total free disk space, the
recording will stop when the disk is filled.
6.3.5 Master Status
The master recording Status field will display Stopped or Recording
reflecting the current master recording operating mode.
6.3.6 Master Data Loss
The Data Loss indicator lights up red if data in any of the master recording
channels is not recorded to a file. If the Data Loss indicator is not lit, then all
the data for all master recording channels was recorded successfully.
Data loss is flagged by the recorder when any condition that results in a dis−
continuity of the data stream occurs. The Talon recording system flags this
data loss in both the real−time status as well as in the recording’s file header.
The file header also includes a field that contains the location of the last
good (contiguous) data recorded, so the operator can use the portion of the
recording that is still good.
Rev.: 1.0
Data loss can happen for a number of reasons. Any time that the storage
drives fail to keep up with the real−time stream of data from either A/D
converters or a digital interface will result in a real−time data loss. This
could happen if the system parameters are set up in a way that results in a
higher aggregate data rate to disk than the system can handle. The following
are other potential causes of data loss:
• An almost full or highly fragmented disk
• Selecting the wrong drive to record each file to
The operator should consider all of these possibilities when observing data
loss and take care to create an environment that results in error−free record−
ing every time.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 43
6.3 Master Record Controls (continued)
6.3.7 Master Current Position (Secs)
The current recording position within the file is shown in seconds. When the
recording is stopped manually or automatically, the Current Position field
displays the total duration of the recording.
6.3.8 Record GPS Position
This check box determines whether the GPS position is recorded. By default,
Talon recording systems that have the GPS option will automatically record
the GPS position (write it to the header file). However, if you do not want
the Talon system to record this information, simply uncheck this check box.
When you save a profile, the state of this check box will be saved, so you can
set this option as enabled or disabled beforehand. If your system does not
have the GPS option, this box will not appear on the record screen.
6.3.9 Signal Viewer
The Signal Viewer button launches the Talon Signal Viewer for preview or
monitoring of the signals before or during recording. See Chapter 9 for more
details.
6.3.10 Programmable Recording Start Time
The SystemFlow software allows you to set a date and time at which record−
ing will start automatically, thus eliminating the need for someone to start
the recorder manually. Figure shows the Start Time field on the System−
Flow Record screen. When you specify a time in this field and put a check
mark in the Enable checkbox, recording will start automatically at the time
you specified.
Figure 6−4: Start
Time
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Chapter 7: Recorded Data Format
The Talon system records data to disk as a binary file. This file contains a header that is
1024 bytes in size and is immediately followed by the recorded data. The Pentek boards
used in the Talon system present this data as raw twos−complement data.
This header contains important information about the recording that can be used to
process and analyze the data. The recorded data resides in the file as contiguous data as
streamed by the I/O interface. This data is written by default in little−endian format.
Table 7−1 provides details about the file header.
The File Viewer, described in Chapter 10 uses this file header information to display
information about the recording and for scaling the displays.
7.1 IF data
The IF data provided by the DDC is recorded as “Packed I/Q” data, where I and Q are
each 16−bit values.
This data is provided by default in the following format.
Bits D15 to D00 − I data
Bits D31 to D15 − Q data
7.2 Baseband data
The baseband data provided by the ADC is recorded as time−packed data, where each
64−bit word contains four consecutive 16−bit samples.
This data is provided by default in the following format:
• The first sample, at time ‘t’, is placed into bits 15 to 0.
• The next sample, at time ‘t+1’, is placed into bits 31 to 16.
• The next sample, at time ‘t+2’, is placed into bits 47 to 32.
• The next sample, at time ‘t+3’, is placed into bits 63 to 48.
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7.3 File Header Format
Table 7−1 below shows the format of the file header, with a brief description of each of
the fields in the header.
Table 7−1: Talon File Header Format
Offset
0x0 Model Number int_32 The Talon model number (0x27670000 for Model 2767).
0x4 File Name char[256] The name of the recorded file.
0x104 File Size (in MSs) int_32
0x108 File Size (in secs) float_32 The length of the recording, in seconds.
0x10C Time Stamp char[32]
0x12C Reserved char[256] Factory Reserved.
0x22C Buffer Size int_32 The buffer size used by the recorder, in bytes.
0x230 Data Rate (in MS/s) float_32
0x234 Data Loss int_32 Data loss indicator. 0 = no data lost. 1 = data lost.
0x238
0x23C Data Type int_32 0 = Raw A/D samples. 1 = DDC Complex I/Q data.
0x240 Packing Mode int_32
0x244 Rate Divider int_32
0x248 Input Voltage Level int_32 The full scale input voltage level: 2 = 8 dBm.
0x24C
0x250
0x254 Decimation int_32 For IF recordings only, the decimation of the DDC.
0x258 Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x25C Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x260 Board Number int_32 Board Model 786510 = 0x78651000.
0x264 Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x268 Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x26C Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x270 Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x274 Channel Number int_32 The channel number in the system.
0x278 Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x27C Reserved int_32 Factory Reserved.
0x280
0x288 ADC Resolution int_32 The number of bits of resolution in the A/D converter.
Data Offset (in
bytes)
Sampling Rate (in
MHz)
Tuning Frequency
(in MHz)
Last Good Data
Location
Field
Data
Type
The size of the file in MSs (not including the header). The
total amount of data written in the recording.
The recording time stamp. See Time Stamp Field on page
48.
The calculated data rate of the recording in megasamples
(millions of samples) per second.
int_32
float_32 The sampling rate of the A/D converter, in MHz.
float_32
int_64
The offset into the file where the recorded data resides −
for legacy use only.
Packing Mode. 1 = 8−bit packed data, 2 = 16−bit packed
data, 3 = 32−bit packed data.
For baseband recordings only, the rate divider applied to
the sample clock.
For IF recordings only, the tuning frequency of the DDC, in
MHz.
If data loss occurs, this field represents the amount of
good data available prior to any real−time data loss.
Description
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Table 7−1: Talon File Header Format (Continued)
Offset
0x28C GPS Latitude float_32
0x290 GPS Longitude float_32
0x294 GPS Altitude float_32
0x298
0x2A0 File Size (in MSs) float_32
0x2A4 RF Tuner Gain double_64
0x2A8 User Defined 1 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2AC User Defined 2 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2B0 User Defined 3 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2B4 User Defined 4 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2B8 User Defined 5 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2BC User Defined 6 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2C0 User Defined 7 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2C4 User Defined 8 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2C8 User Defined 9 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2CC User Defined 10 int_32 User−defined field.
0x2D0 Start Frequency double_64
0x2D8 Stop Frequency double_64
0x2E0 Step Size float_32
0x2E4 Number of Steps int_32
0x2E8 Dwell Time (in ms) float_32
0x2EC
0x2F0 Total Time (in ms) float_32
0x2F4
0x2F8 Input Impedance int_32 The impedance of the channel, in ohms.
0x2FC Reserved int_32 Field used in Ethernet recorders only.
0x300 Reserved int_32 Field used in Ethernet recorders only.
0x304 Reserved int_32 Field used in Ethernet recorders only.
0x308 Reserved int_32 Field used in Ethernet recorders only.
RF Tuning
Frequency
Transient Time (in
ms)
System Revision
Number
Field
Data
Type
double_64
float_32
int_32
Description
GPS latitude, in degrees. For systems that include the
optional GPS receiver.
GPS longitude, in degrees. For systems that include the
optional GPS receiver.
GPS altitude, in meters. For systems that include the
optional GPS receiver.
RF Tuning Frequency, in MHz (used for supported RF
Tuners modules).
File Size in MSs (not including the header). The total
amount of data written in the recording.
RF Tuning Frequency, in dB (used for supported RF tuner
modules).
64−bit scanner start frequency, in GHz. (Used for
supported RF tuner modules.)
64−bit scanner stop frequency, in GHz. (Used for
supported RF tuner modules.)
Size of the steps in the scan, in MHz. (Used for supported
RF tuner modules).
The number of steps in the scan. (Used for supported RF
tuner modules).
Time to dwell in each bin, in milliseconds. (Used for
supported RF tuner modules.)
Time in between dwells, in milliseconds. (Used for
supported RF tuner modules.)
Total scan time (in milliseconds) = [(dwell time + transient
time) x numBins] (Used for supported RF tuner modules.)
Revision number in hex. The upper 16 bits correspond to
the major revision number. The lower 16 bits correspond
to the minor revision number. For example, 0x00020004 =
Revision 2.4.
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Table 7−1: Talon File Header Format (Continued)
Offset
0x334 Number of Files int_32
0x33C
0x340
Start File Index (in
bytes)
Data Offset (in
bytes)
Field
Data
Type
int_32
int_64 The offset into the file where the recorded data begins.
Time Stamp Field
The Time Stamp field’s format is as follows:
Month/Day/Year Hrs:Mins:Secs:mSecs
For example:
04/21/2013 11:28:07:086
NOTE: In systems with the GPS timestamp option, the time field is
extended by three additional digits of precision. For example,
11:28:07:086492 provides 100 ns resolution.
Description
For segmented recording: the number of files used for the
entire recording.
For looped segmented recording: The file index where the
recording begins.
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Chapter 8: Playing a Recorded File
This chapter describes how to play a recorded file:
• Section 8.1 describes the Play screen.
• Section 8.2 describes the play channel controls.
• Section 8.3 describes the master play controls.
NOTE:
The Play tab is only provided if your Talon system has a playback option.
8.1 The Play Screen
Select the Play Screen by clicking on the Play tab along the top of the GUI. Figure 8−1
shows an example of the Play screen. The available channels are shown in the Channel
column o
modes, length and starting position of playback, and file names.
n the bottom left of the screen. The Play screen configures the playback
Figure 8−1: Play Screen
The top section of the Play screen allows you
section allows you to play a single channel.
to play multiple channels and the bottom
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8.2 Play Channel Controls
After recording to disk, you can play back any of the recorded files. The bottom section
of the Play screen (
the filename for each channel to be played back, set the recording transfer length, start
and stop the recording, and monitor the status of the recording.
Figure 8−2) contains the play controls . This section lets you enter
Figure 8−2: Play Screen: Channel Controls
8.2.1 File Name and Browse
The name of the file to be played back is entered in the text entry window
under File Name adjacent to the appropriate resource. Alternately, you can
click on the Browse button to locate a file using a file directory window. The
extension of the played file must be .dat. The full path, including the drive
letter, must be included with the file name.
8.2.2 Start Position
The starting position of the playback file in seconds or megasamples can be
entered in the numeric entry window under Start Position. If the Start
Position equals 0.0 secs or 0 MSs, then the playback starts at the beginning
of the file. If the Start Position exceeds the length of file in time, then an
error message appears: <servername>: File too small
8.2.3 Play Until Manual Stop
You can choose to play a signal until the Stop button is pressed, by entering
a file transfer length or file transfer time of 0 in the Transfer Length field.
Rev.: 1.0
NOTE:
If you don't manually press Stop, playback will stop automatically
at the end of the file.
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 51
8.2 Play Channel Controls (continued)
8.2.4 Play by Time
For time length playback, set the units selection menu to Secs (seconds).
(This menu is to the right of the numeric entry field in the Transfer Length
column). Then specify the number of seconds for the playback using the
numeric entry field under Transfer Length.
This entry accepts a floating point value, allowing you to specify resolutions
smaller than 1 second. After the playback starts, it will automatically stop
after the elapsed time specified.
NOTE:
The minimum play time is 1 millisecond. If the number of MSs
represents a play time of under 1 millisecond, you will be
prompted accordingly. If play time exceeds the file size, playback
will stop at the end of the file.
8.2.5 Play by File Size
For file size length playback, set the units selection menu to MSs (Megasam−
ples). (This menu is to the right of the numeric entry field in the Transfer
Length column). Then specify the number of Megasamples for the playback
using the numeric entry window under Transfer Length. After the playback
starts, it will automatically stop after the file size reaches the specified limit.
NOTE:
The minimum play time is 1 millisecond. If the number of MSs
represents a play time of under 1 millisecond, you will be
prompted accordingly. If play time exceeds the file size, playback
will stop at the end of the file.
8.2.6 Loop
If the Loop box is unchecked, files will be played back for the requested
amount of time or length and then playback will stop. If the Loop box is
checked, files will be played back repeatedly, looping back to the Start Posi−
tion after the requested transfer time or length. The Loop box is toggled
between checked and unchecked by clicking on it with the mouse.
Loop must be selected before beginning the playback. If the Loop box is
checked and then the playback begins, it cannot be unchecked during play−
back, and vice−versa.
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8.2 Play Channel Controls (continued)
8.2.7 Master Play
The Master Play checkboxes allow multiple channels to be played back
simultaneously. Channels can be selected for Master Play by clicking on the
box to show a check mark. Channels can be de−selected from Master Play by
clicking on the box to remove the check mark. See Section 8.3 for more
details.
8.2.8 Play Button
The playback can be manually started for each channel by clicking its Play
button.
8.2.9 Stop Button
The playback can be manually stopped for each channel by clicking its Stop
button.
8.2.10 Status
The Status column will display Stopped or Playing, reflecting the current
operating mode.
8.2.11 Channel Position (MSs)
The Channel Position column shows the current playback position within
the file in megasamples. When the playback is stopped manually or auto−
matically, this field displays the last position of the playback.
8.2.12 Data Rate (MS/s)
During playback, the Data Rate column shows the current playback data
rate in megasamples per second. When playback is stopped manually or
automatically, this field displays the final playback rate.
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8.2 Play Channel Controls (continued)
8.2.13 Data Loss
The Data Loss indicator will light up red if data cannot be played back from
a file. If the Data Loss indicator is not lit, then all of the data was played
back successfully.
Data loss is flagged by the recorder when any condition that results in a dis−
continuity of the data stream occurs. The Talon recording system flags this
data loss in both the real−time status as well as in the recording’s file header.
The file header also includes a field that contains the location of the last
good (contiguous) data recorded, so the operator can use the portion of the
recording that is still good.
Data loss can happen for a number of reasons. Any time that the storage
drives fail to keep up with the real−time stream of data from either A/D
converters or a digital interface will result in a real−time data loss. This
could happen if the system parameters are set up in a way that results in a
higher aggregate data rate to disk than the system can handle. The following
are other potential causes of data loss:
• In Talon RTS systems, the performance of the HDDs could be affected by
a momentary shock or an environment of high vibration, resulting in
data loss. (Talon RTR and RTX systems have SSDs, which are not
affected in this way.)
• An almost full or highly fragmented disk could result in data loss.
• Selecting the wrong drive to record each file to will often result in data
loss.
• Failure to apply an external clock when specifying one.
• Incorrectly setting up an external trigger.
• Specifying incorrect clock rates, decimation rates, bandwidths, or other
system settings.
The operator should consider all of these possibilities when observing data
loss and take care to create an environment that results in error−free record−
ing every time.
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8.3 Master Play Controls
The master play controls are located at the top of the Play screen (see Figure 8−3). These
controls allow simultaneous multi−channel playback.
The Master Play checkboxes in the channel controls section at the bottom of the Play
screen (
To select a channel for Master Play, click on its Master Play box to show a check mark.
To de−select a channel from Master Play, click on the box to remove the check mark.
All the channels selected for Master Play are controlled by the settings in the Master
Controls section.
Figure 8−1) select or deselect channels for Master Play.
Figure 8−3: Play Screen − Master Controls
8.3.1 Master Play Button
The master playback can be manually started for all selected channels by
clicking the Master Play button.
8.3.2 Master Stop Button
The master playback can be manually stopped for all selected channels by
clicking the Master Stop button.
8.3.3 Play Until Manual Stop − Master Playback
You can choose to master play all selected channels until you manually
press the Stop button by entering a file transfer length or file transfer time of
0 in the Transfer Time field.
NOTE:
If you don't manually press Stop, playback will stop automatically
at the end of the file.
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8.3 Master Play Controls (continued)
8.3.4 Play by Time − Master Playback
For time−length master playback, set the Transfer Time numeric entry field
to the number of seconds desired for master playback. After the playback
starts, playback of all master−controlled channels will automatically stop
after the elapsed time specified.
NOTE:
The minimum play time is 1 millisecond. If play time exceeds file
size, playback stops at the end of the file.
8.3.5 Master Status
The master play Status field will display Stopped or Playing, reflecting the
current master playback operating mode.
8.3.6 Master Data Loss
The Data Loss indicator will light up red if data in any of the master play−
back channels is not played back successfully from a file. This can happen if
the recording is corrupted, or for other reasons.
If the Data Loss indicator is not lit, then all of the data for all master play−
back channels was played back successfully.
8.3.7 Master Current Position (Secs)
The Current Position indicator shows the current playback position within
the file in seconds. When playback is stopped manually or automatically,
this field displays the total duration of the file.
8.3.8 File Viewer
The File Viewer button selects the File Viewer for displaying the signals
after recording. See Chapter 10 for more details.
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Chapter 9: Monitoring Input Signals with Signal Viewer
This chapter describes the Talon recording system’s Signal Viewer:
• Section 9.1 provides an overview of the Signal Viewer.
• Section 9.2 describes the Signal Viewer display windows and display controls.
• Section 9.3 describes the Signal Viewer input controls.
• Section 9.4 describes the data displayed on the Signal Viewer.
9.1 Introduction: the Signal Viewer
The Talon Signal Viewer allows you to monitor live input signals before and during
recording, in both time and frequency domains. It provides a wealth of signal analysis
tools, including amplitude and frequency calculators, distortion calculators, averaging
modes, zooming and panning controls, and cursors for exploring spectral components.
Signals displayed on the Signal Viewer are “snapshot” blocks of data, processed by the
signal viewer at its maximum rate:
• If the data rate into the viewer is faster than the viewer can process input samples,
then input data is discarded until the viewer can accept another new block of
samples.
• If the data rate into the viewer is slower than the viewer processing speed, then the
viewer will wait for a complete block of samples before updating the Time and
Frequency displays, and no input data is discarded.
The Signal Viewer is launched from the Signal Viewer button in the upper right corner
of the Record Screen (
Figure 6−1), or the Play Screen (Figure 8−1).
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9.2 Signal Viewer Displays and Display Controls
The Signal Viewer presents two display windows: the Time window on the left and the
Frequency Magnitude window on the right as shown in Figure 9−1.
Rev.: 1.0
Figure 9−1: Signal Viewer (Default Display)
At the bottom of the Ti
between samples and time (Figure 9−2).
Click on the switch to change its position/setting. When the switch is set to Sampl
the X−axis is scaled to show the signal in terms of the number of samples. When
switched to Time, the X−axis is scaled to show the signal in terms of time in seconds.
me window is a Samples switch that allows you to select
Figure 9−2: Samples/Time Switch
es,
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9.2 Signal Viewer Displays (continued)
On the left side of the Time window is an Amplitude switch (Figure 9−3) that allows
you to toggle the amplitude scaling between Volts an
switch to change its position/setting.
Figure 9−3: Amplitude Switch (Time Display)
d % of Full Scale. Click on the
At the top of the Ti
Type switch allows you to toggle
Time display and the Frequency − Time − Intensity display. Click on the switch to
change its position/setting.
Figure 9−1 shows the Signal Viewer with the Ti
Figure 9−5 shows the Signal Viewer with the F
the left window.
me window is a Display Type switch (Figure 9−4). The Display
the left−side Signal Viewer window between the
Figure 9−4: Display Type Switch
me display in the left window and
requency − Time − Intensity display in
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9.2 Signal Viewer Displays (continued)
When the Display Type switch is set to show Frequency − Time − Intensity, the left
window displays a horizontal waterfall of the signal that is shown in the right window.
See Figure 9−5. The color corresponds to the intensity of the signal.
Figure 9−5: Signal Viewer with Frequency−Time−Intensity Display in Left Window
Regardless of what is displayed in the Signal View
right window always shows the Frequency Magnitude display. On the left side of the
Frequency Magnitude window is an Amplitude switch (Figure 9−6) that allows you to
toggle the amplitude scaling between dBm an
position/setting
Figure 9−6: Amplitude Switch (Frequency Magnitude Display)
The Signal Viewer has various controls that allow
described in Chapter 11.
er’s left window, the Signal Viewer’s
d dBfs. Click on the switch to change its
you to adjust the display. These are
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9.3 Input Controls
This section described the controls that enable you to adjust the input.
9.3.1 Resume, Pause and Close
When started, the Signal Viewer begins displaying live data. Clicking on the
Pause button in the lower left stops the live display and clicking Resume
restarts it. The Signal Viewer is closed by clicking the Close button.
Figure 9−7: Resume, Pause and Close Buttons
9.3.2 Channel Index and Board Index
The Channel Index up/down buttons (Figure 9−8) in the lower left of the
screen allow you to select a port or channel for signal viewing. Each port or
channel in your system is assigned a number, which is shown on the Talon
system’s main configuration screen (Figure 5−1).
If your system uses more than one board, the Board Index up/down but−
tons (Figure 9−8) allow you to select the board that is generating the signals
you want to view. The Board Index number is the last digit shown on the
board tab shown on the channel configuration panel on the main configura−
tion screen (see Figure 5−1).
Figure 9−8: Channel Index and Board Index
9.3.3 FFT Size
By clicking on the FFT size input field you will be able to choose from sev−
eral specified values, ranging from 128 to 64K.
Figure 9−9: FFT Size
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9.3 Input Controls (continued)
9.3.4 Spectrum Averaging
The Averaging control on the bottom right side of the screen provides expo−
nential averaging of the frequency spectrum display. The number of aver−
ages is set with an up/down button, or with direct numeric entry.
For an averaging value of N, exponential averaging sums the latest N values
for each frequency display point (FFT point) and divides each value by N.
The larger the value of N, the more averaging occurs.
If the Peak Hold button is pressed, the right−hand window will display the
peak amplitudes across all the bandwidths.
Figure 9−10: Averaging Control
9.3.5 Baseband / IF Frequency Scale
Signals translated by the DDCs from an IF frequency down to baseband can
be displayed with the frequency indicator showing either the original IF
frequency (default) or the down−converted Baseband frequency. The IF
toggle switch is changed by clicking on it. When you toggle the switch, the
label on the switch will change back and forth from IF to Baseband.
Figure 9−11: Baseband / IF Frequency Scale Control
NOTE:
This feature is only available for DDC output signals.
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9.4 Data Displayed
9.4.1 System, Server and Board Model
The lower center portion of the screen shows the Talon System model num−
ber, the IP address of the Server, and the Pentek software radio Board
Model (Figure 9−12).
Figure 9−12: Example of System, Server, and Board Model Fields
9.4.2 Signal Characteristics
In order for the Signal Viewer to properly scale signals that are being
acquired by the Talon recorder, it is necessary to provide information about
the acquisition setup.
• In the case of an Analog Talon signal recorder, information about the
setup of the A/D converters and other pertinent information is passed to
the Signal Viewer via a control word to allow for automatic time and
frequency domain signal scaling.
• In the case when real world signals are digitized by an external device
and then sent to and recorded by a Digital Talon signal recorder, you
can still display these signals in the viewer you but must manually set
up the scaling via the GUI.
In order to manually set up the scaling, you must click on the Control switch
shown in Figure 9−13 to switch it from Auto to Manual. Once in Manual
mode, the viewer allows you to input values for the Channel Type, Packing
Mode, Clock, Center Frequency, and Decimation. Setting these to match
your signal acquisition settings will result in the proper scaling in both the
Time and Frequency domain windows. Additionally, the numeric value
displayed in the Frequency detection window should accurately show the
frequency of the primary tone being acquired.
Figure 9−13: Signal Characteristics
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9.4 Data Displayed (continued)
9.4.3 Amplitude Calculator
The Amplitude calculator window in the lower left of the Signal Viewer
displays the calculated amplitude of the input signal in dBm, VRMS, and
V(p−p).
Figure 9−14: Amplitude Calculator
dBm dBm = 20 log (V
where 0.2236 = the RMS Voltage of l mW
V
RMS
V
calculates the root mean square of the input signal.
RMS
) − 20 log (0.2236)
RMS
RMS
into 50
V(p−p) V(p−p) measures the difference from the most positive peak to
the most negative peak.
NOTE:
The Overload LED corresponds to the Overload LED on the actual
board that is used in your Talon system. See Chapter 3.
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9.4 Data Displayed (continued)
9.4.4 Distortion Calculator
The distortion calculator window located to the right of the Amplitude Cal−
culator displays the results of signal analysis algorithms.
Figure 9−15: Distortion Calculator
• 2nd Harmonic − Displays the level of the second harmonic component
in dB relative to the fundamental signal level.
• 3rd Harmonic − Displays the level of the third harmonic component in
dB relative to the fundamental signal level.
• SINAD − Displays the measured signal noise and distortion (SINAD).
SINAD is defined as the dB ratio of the RMS energy of all signals to the
RMS energy of all signals minus the energy of the fundamental.
• THD − Displays the measured total harmonic distortion up to and
including the highest harmonic component. THD is defined as the ratio
of the RMS sum of the harmonic components to the amplitude of the
fundamental signal. To compute THD as a percentage, multiply the
displayed value by 100.
9.4.5 Resolution Bandwidth Calculator
The resolution bandwidth calculator located to the right of the signal char−
acteristics panel displays the resolution bandwidth based on the frequency
bandwidth and FFT size.
Figure 9−16: Resolution Bandwidth Calculator
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Chapter 10: Analyzing Recorded Signals with File Viewer
This chapter describes the Talon recording system’s File Viewer:
• Section 10.1 provides an overview of the Signal Viewer.
• Section 10.2 lists the differences between the Signal Viewer and the File Viewer.
• Section 10.3 describes how to select a file to view.
• Section 10.4 describes the display and playback controls.
• Section 10.5 describes the data displayed on the file viewer.
• Section 10.6 describes the data extraction utility.
10.1 Introduction: the File Viewer
The Talon system’s File Viewer allows you to analyze recorded signals stored on disk
in both time and frequency domains. It is nearly identical to the Signal Viewer
described in
amplitude and frequency calculators, distortion calculators, averaging modes, zoom
and panning controls, and cursors for exploring spectral components. Many of the fol
lowing sections are identical to those in Chapter 9.
The File Viewer is launched from File Viewer button in the upper right corner of the
Play screen as shown in
Chapter 9 and includes the same wealth of signal analysis tools, including
Figure 8−1.
10.2 Differences Between the Signal Viewer and the File Viewer
Differences between the Signal Viewer and the File Viewer are as follows:
• The Signal Viewer Pause/Resume button is replaced with the File Viewer Play/
Resume button.
• The Signal Viewer Close button is replaced with the File Viewer Quit button.
−
• The Signal Viewer System−Server−Board windows is replaced with the File Server
Board−System−Time Stamp window
• The Signal Viewer Baseband/IF switch is replaced with the File Viewer Playback
Speed/All Data switch.
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10.2 Differences Between the Signal Viewer and the File Viewer (continued)
•The Signal Viewer Channel Type and Channel Number window is replaced with the
Playback Controls window.
• The File Viewer includes a Data Extraction Utility (see Section 10.6).
Signals displayed on the Signal Viewer are live signals, so if the viewer cannot keep up
with the live input rate, data is not displayed.
Signals displayed on the File Viewer are read from disk files so it is possible to display
all data at the rate the viewer can process the data. If data was recorded at a high sam
ple rate, and all data is displayed, the File Viewer will display the data more slowly
than it was recorded.
However, an optional mode of the File Viewer allows the display rate to match the
original recording rate by discarding blocks of data it cannot keep up with. This is
described below in
Section 10.4.3.
−
10.3 Selecting a File to View
The File Viewer is launched from File Viewer button in the upper right corner of the
Play screen as shown in
After the File Viewer is launched, you must select a file to view. Locate the Playback
Controls window on the lower left portion of the screen.
tion of the File Viewer.
To select a file to view, click on the file folder icon (located under the Quit button). The
Select the Data File to View file browse screen appears as shown in
this screen to browse to the file for display, or enter the path and file name in the File:
data entry field.
Figure 8−1.
Figure 10−1: Playback Controls
Figure 10−1 shows this por−
Figure 10−2. Use
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10.3 Selecting a File to View (continued)
Figure 10−2: File Viewer File Selection Browser
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10.4 Display and Playback Controls
After you select a file to view, the File Viewer presents two display windows: the Time
window on the left and the Frequency Magnitude window on the right, as shown in
Figure 10−3.
Rev.: 1.0
Figure 10−3: Example of File Viewer
At the bottom of the Time window is a switch that
ples and time. When the switch is set to Sa
nal in terms of the number of samples. When switched to Time, t
show the signal in terms of time in seconds.
mples, the X−axis is scaled to show the sig−
allows you to select between sam−
10.4.1 Display Controls
The File Viewer has various controls that allow you to adjust the display.
These are described in Chapter 11.
10.4.2 Playback Controls
When started, the File Viewer waits for you to click the Play button on the
lower left side of the screen to start the display. Clicking on the Pause button
stops the file display and clicking Play restarts it. The File Viewer is closed
by clicking the Quit button. See Figure 10−4.
he X−axis is scaled to
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10.4 Display and Playback Controls (continued)
10.4.2 Playback Controls (continued)
Figure 10−4: Play, Pause and Quit buttons
The playback controls section on the lower left side of the screen provides a
file position slider progress indicator that shows the approximate playback
position of the file. The slider can be moved left or right to quickly change
the playback position.
The playback controls window (Figure 10−1) shows the exact playback
position of the file in seconds. You can adjust the current position of the file
position display by using the up/down button or entering a numeric value
directly into the field.
10.4.3 Playback Speed
Signals displayed on the Signal Viewer are live signals, so if the viewer
cannot keep up with the live input rate, data is not displayed, as discussed
in Section 9.1. Signals displayed on the File Viewer are read from a disk file
so it is possible to display all data at the rate the viewer can process the data.
If data was recorded at a high sample rate, and all data is displayed, the File
Viewer will display the data more slowly than it was recorded.
On the other hand, you may wish to display the recorded data at the same
rate it was recorded (Real−Time), like the live display in the Signal Viewer.
The Playback Speed switch allows you to choose the mode of playback.
This switch is part of the Playback Controls (see Figure 10−1).
Figure 10−5: Playback Speed Switch
When the switch is pointing towards Real−Time (which means Real−Time
is turned on), recorded data will be displayed at the rate it was recorded, but
some data may be discarded, similar to the Signal Viewer operation.
When Real−Time is turned off (the switch is not pointing towards Real−
Time), all recorded data will be displayed as fast as the viewer can present
it. In this mode, it may take longer to view the recording than the original
duration of the recording, but no data will be discarded. The switch is tog−
gled by clicking it with the mouse.
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10.4 Display and Playback Controls (continued)
10.4.3 Playback Speed (continued)
Since digital recorders do not always provide data at a constant data rate,
the Playback Speed switch often does not have the same effect for digital
recorders as it does with a Talon Analog Recording System. Because A/D
converters sample data at a constant rate, the Real−Time playback switch
can be calibrated to replicate the real−time flow of data. This is not always
effective with digital recording systems and therefore this switch may not
prove useful in some systems.
10.4.4 Spectrum Averaging
The Averaging control provides exponential averaging of the frequency
spectrum display. The number of averages is set with an up/down button,
or with direct numeric entry.
For an averaging value of N, exponential averaging sums the latest N values
for each frequency display point (FFT point) and divides each value by N.
The larger the value of N, the more averaging occurs.
Figure 10−6: Exponential Averaging Control
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10.5 Data Displayed
10.5.1 Board, System, Time Stamp, and Optional GPS
The lower right section of the window shows the Board identifier, the Sys−
tem identifier, and the Time Stamp. The GPS Longitude, GPS Latitude,
and GPS Altitude will also be displayed if your Talon system has the GPS
option. All of these parameters were stored in the file header when the file
was recorded.
Figure 10−7: Board, System, Time Stamp, and Optional GPS
10.5.2 Signal Characteristics
In order for the File Viewer to properly scale signals that are being acquired
by the Talon recorder, it is necessary to provide information about the
acquisition setup.
• In the case of an Analog Talon signal recorder, information about the
setup of the A/D converters and other pertinent information is obtained
by the File Viewer via the data recording’s file header to allow for
automatic time and frequency domain signal scaling.
• In the case when real world signals are digitized by an external device
and then sent to and recorded by a Digital Talon signal recorder, you
can still display these signals in the viewer you but must manually set
up the scaling via the GUI.
In order to manually set up the scaling, you must click on the Control switch
shown in Figure 10−8 to switch it from Auto to Manual. Once in Manual
mode, the viewer allows you to input values for the Channel Type, Packing
Mode, Clock, Center Frequency, and Decimation. Setting these to match
your signal acquisition settings will result in the proper scaling in both the
Time and Frequency domain windows. Additionally, the numeric value
displayed in the Frequency detection window should accurately show the
frequency of the primary tone that was acquired.
Figure 10−8: Signal Characteristics
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10.5 Data Displayed (continued)
10.5.3 Distortion Calculator
The distortion calculator window located to the right of the amplitude cal−
culator displays the results of signal analysis algorithms on the recorded
signal.
Figure 10−9: Distortion Calculator
• 2nd Harmonic − Displays the level of the second harmonic component
in dB relative to the fundamental signal level.
• 3rd Harmonic − Displays the level of the third harmonic component in
dB relative to the fundamental signal level.
• SINAD − Displays the measured signal noise and distortion (SINAD).
SINAD is defined as the dB ratio of the RMS energy of all signals to the
RMS energy of all signals minus the energy of the fundamental.
• THD − Displays the measured total harmonic distortion up to and
including the highest harmonic component. THD is defined as the ratio
of the RMS sum of the harmonic components to the amplitude of the
fundamental signal. To compute THD as a percentage, multiply the
displayed value by 100.
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10.5 Data Displayed (continued)
10.5.4 Amplitude Calculator
The Amplitude calculator window in the lower left of the Signal Viewer
displays the calculated amplitude of the input signal in dBm, VRMS, and
V(p−p).
Figure 10−10: Amplitude Calculator
dBm dBm = 20 log (V
where 0.2236 = the RMS Voltage of 1 mW
V
RMS
V
calculates the root mean square of the input signal.
RMS
) − 20 log (0.2236)
RMS
RMS
into 50
V(p−p) V(p−p) measures the difference from the most positive peak to
the most negative peak.
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10.6 Data Extraction Utility
The Data Extraction Utility (Figure 10−12) enables you to extract sections of interest
from your recording. This utility allows you to mark a starting point and an ending
point in the original recording and copy that data to a new file. In addition to the
extracted data, the new file will include the same header information as the original
recording.
To use the Data Extraction Utility, move the file position in the Playback Controls
Figure 10−11) to the start position of the section you want to copy.
(
Figure 10−11: Playback Controls
After you set the start position, click the Start Marker button on the Data Extraction
Utility (
of the section you want to copy. Click the Stop Marker button on the Data Extraction
Utility to set the end position.
To select a name for the data extraction file, click on the folder browse button (folder
icon) on the Data Extraction Utility and enter a file name.
To begin data extraction, click the Start button. The file extraction's progress will be
indicated as the MBs field increments throughout the transfer. This will stop once the
file transfer is complete. If you wish to manually stop the transfer at any time, click the
Stop button.
Figure 10−12). Next, move the file position in the Playback Controls to the end
Figure 10−12: Data Extraction Utility
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Figure 11−2: Time and FFT (Frequency) Display Controls
Chapter 11: Display Controls for Signal and File Viewer
This chapter describes the controls related to the display of data:
• Sections 11.1 an
• Section 11.3 describes how to reset the scale of the time and frequency displays.
• Section 11.4 describes cursor operation.
d 11.2 describe display zooming and panning.
11.1 Display Zooming
The Time Display Controls and FFT Display Controls both include Zoom buttons
(center button) to provide tools for zooming in both the Time and Frequency display
windows (see Figure 11−1).
Figure 11−1: Time and FFT (Frequency) Display Controls
C
lick on the magnifying glass Zoom button to invoke the zoom function for either
the Time or Frequency (
The Zoom menu screen appears as shown in Figure 11−2. Click on any one of the six
buttons in the menu to invoke the desired zoo
paragraphs. Zooming will change the horizontal or vertical scale, or both.
FFT) display window.
m functions described in the following
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11.1 Display Zooming (continued)
11.1.1 Horizontal Zoom
To zoom in the horizontal axis only, click the Horizontal Zoom button (see
Figure 11−2). Then place the magnifying glass cursor in the display window
at the starting position for horizontal zoom, hold the left mouse button
down, drag the cursor to the ending position for the horizontal zoom, and
then release the mouse button.
11.1.2 Vertical Zoom
To zoom in the vertical axis only, click the Vertical Zoom button (see Figure
11−2). Then place the magnifying glass cursor in the display window at the
starting position for vertical zoom, hold the left mouse button down, drag
the cursor to the ending position for the vertical zoom, and then release the
mouse button.
11.1.3 Windowed Zoom
To zoom within a rectangular window, click the Windowed Zoom button
(see Figure 11−2). Then place the magnifying glass cursor in the display
window in one corner of the desired zoom rectangle, hold the left mouse
button down, drag the cursor to the opposite corner of the desired zoom
rectangle, and then release the mouse button.
11.1.4 Full Screen
To restore the full screen from a zoomed region, click the Full Screen button
(see Figure 11−2) or the Reset Scale button at the lower left of the Frequency
Display window.
NOTE:
The Full Screen function may not work properly for DDC
Frequency displays, so use the Reset Scale button.
11.1.5 Point Zoom
To zoom from a single point in the display, click the Point Zoom button (see
Figure 11−2). Then place the quad outward−arrow cursor in the display
window at the desired zoom position and click the left mouse button. Click
again for additional zooming.
Rev.: 1.0
11.1.6 Point Shrink
To shrink (unzoom) from a single point in the display, click the Point
Shrink button (see Figure 11−2). Then place the quad inward−arrow cursor
in the display window at the desired shrink position and click the left mouse
button. Click again for additional shrinking.
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11.2 Display Panning
The Time Display Controls and FFT Display Controls shown in Figure 11−1 both
include Pa
or Frequency display window.
n buttons (right button) to provide panning of both display windows.
Click on the Pan (hand) button to invoke the panning function for either the Time
Then place the hand cursor in the display, hold dow
the display up, down, left or right. Release the mouse button when you are finished.
The panning operation will not change the vertical or
The display can be restored by clicking the Reset Scale button.
n the left mouse button and move
11.3 Reset Scale − Time and Frequency Displays
After panning and zooming in the Time and Frequency Displays, you can quickly
restore the initial default scaling, zoom and panning by clicking the Reset Scale but−
tons at the lower left corner of each display (see Figure 11−3).
horizontal scale.
Figure 11−3:
Reset Scale Buttons − Time and Frequency Displays
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11.4 Cursor Operation
The FFT Display Controls shown in Figure 11−1 includes the Cursor button (left but−
ton) which provides multiple cursors for exploring and identifying
quency display window.
NOTE: There is no cursor support for the Time display window.
Click on the Cursor (crosshairs) button to invoke the Cursor function, to ensure
that both Zoom an
d Pan functions are disabled.
features in the Fre−
Then right−click the mous
bring up the Create Cursor menu as shown in Figure 11−4 below.
Figure 11−4:
Two types of cursors are available: Free an
freely anywhere on the screen in horizontal and vertical directions. Single−Plot cursors
can be moved anywhere on the screen in the horizontal dimension, but the vertical
position tracks the vertical value of the display plot.
e in the Cursors window at the lower left of the screen to
Create Cursor Menu
d Single−Plot. Free cursors can be moved
Rev.: 1.0
By clicking on the Fre
dow as shown below in Figure 11−5.
e cursor menu selection, a new entry is added to the cursor win−
Figure 11−5:
New Free Cursor 0
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Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual Page 81
11.4 Cursor Operation (continued)
Cursor 0 is a Free cursor that starts out with a vertical line at 0 Hz (at the left side of the
Frequency display or normally off−screen for DDC displays) and a horizontal line at 0
dB (at the top of the Frequency display). Notice that the frequency and amplitude val
ues of the cursor are displayed in the cursor window in Figure 11−5.
By right clicking on Cursor 0, its properties can be displayed along with specific set−
tings for that cursor as shown in Figure 11−6.
−
Figure 11−6: Cursor 0 Properties
For example, by clicking on Bring to Center, Cursor 0 is centered horizontally and ver−
tically on the display, and the values in the cursor window are updated accordingly.
Because Cursor 0 is a free cursor, the frequency value can be changed by moving the
vertical line with the mouse or entering a new frequency value in the cursor window,
and the amplitude value can be changed by moving the horizontal line with the mouse
or entering a new amplitude value in the cursor window.
Both horizontal and vertical values of a free cursor can be moved by moving the inter−
section crosshairs of the horizontal and vertical cursor lines with the mouse.
NOTE: Be sure the Cursor button in the FFT Display Controls window is selected
(highlighted in dark gray) in order to move the cursor.
Rev.: 1.0
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Page 82 Talon RTX 2767 Operating Manual
11.4 Cursor Operation (continued)
By clicking on the Attributes property, many different features of the cursor can be
customized, such as the color of the cursor lines, as shown in
Figure 11−7.
Figure 11−7: Cursor 0 Attributes
By right clicking on Create Cursor and then Single−Plot, a new Single−Plot cursor is
created as Cursor 1, as shown in
Figure 11−8: Cursor Window with Single Free Cursor and Single−Plot Cursor
Because Cursor 1 is a Single−Plot cursor, its frequency value can be changed by mov−
ing the vertical line with the mouse or by entering a new frequency value in the cursor
window, but the amplitude value will track the amplitude of Plot 0 and is not user
adjustable.
Figure 11−8.
Rev.: 1.0
This feature can be useful for reading the amplitude of frequency components. In some
cases, you will discover the peak value of a plot by zooming the plot in the frequency
scale to improve the horizontal resolution.
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