Vislink Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

STRATA

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

RX

RX

STRATA

RXU

STRATA

RCU

PWR

PWR/RS-485

DC
ON COAX

Strata RX

ON

OFF

System

Analog+Digital
Portable
Microwave Receiver

Manual Part No. 400495-2

Rev. A July 2004

Technical
Reference
Manual

Notices

About This Manual

Part number 400495-2

Revision A --- July 2004

Supercedes # 400495-1 Rev. 2.8 November 2003

The information in the manual applies to the Strata RX System.

US Support Centre:

Microwave Radio Communications

101 Billerica Avenue - Bldg. 6

North Billerica, MA 01862-1256USA

TEL: [phone]

FAX: [phone]

Copyright

The information in this book may be reproduced by the
purchaser to the extent needed for their organization. No part of
this material may be modified in any way or published for resale
without the express written authorization of Vislink plc.

© 2004 Vislink plc

Worldwide Headquarters:

Vislink plc

Nashleigh Hill,

Chesham,

Buckinghamshire,

HP5 3HE,

England

Tel: + 44 (0)1494 774400

Fax: + 44 (0)1494 791127

Printed in U.S.A.

Notices iStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Proprietary Material

The information and design contained within this manual was
originated by and is the property of Vislink plc. Vislink plc
reserves all patent proprietary design, manufacturing,
reproduction use, and sales rights thereto, and to any articles
disclosed therein, except to the extent rights are expressly
granted to others. The foregoing does not apply to vendor
proprietary parts.

To allow for the introduction of design improvements,
specifications are subject to change without notice.

Conventions

Pay special attention to information marked in one of the
following ways:

CAUTION

WARNING

Follow CAUTIONS closely to prevent
personal injury or death.

Follow WARNINGS to prevent damage to
the equipment.

Note

Notes provide additional information to assist you
in using and maintaining the equipment.

On-Line Viewing

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hypertext to jump to that destination. Click on the
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Notices iiStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Symbols Used

Warranty Information

The following symbols are used on the equipment:

Symbol Meaning

CAUTION: Risk of Electric Shock

WARNING: General Warning. Risk of Danger

WARNING: Electrostatic Discharge. Possible
Damage to Equipment

Fuse - Identifies fuses or their location.

Frame or Chassis Ground - Identifies the frame or
chassis terminal.

Earth Ground - Identifies the earth Ground Terminal

Protective Earth Ground - Identifies any terminal
which is intended for connection to an external
conductor for protection against electric shock in
case of a fault, or the terminal on a protective earth
electrode.

Product Manufactured by Vislink:

a. Products manufactured by Vislink are warranted against
defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years
from date of delivery as evidenced by Vislink's packing slip or
other transportation receipt (unless otherwise noted).

b. Vislink's sole responsibility under this warranty will be to
either repair or replace, at its option, any component which fails
during the applicable warranty period because of a defect in
material or workmanship, provided Buyer has promptly reported
same to Vislink in writing. All replaced products and parts will
become Vislink's property.

c. Vislink will honor the warranty at the repair facility designated
by Vislink. It is Buyer's responsibility to return, at its expense, the
allegedly defective product to Vislink. Buyer must obtain a
Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and shipping
instructions from Vislink prior to returning any product under
warranty. Transportation charges for the return of the product to
Buyer will be paid by Vislink within the United States. For all
other locations, the warranty excludes all costs of shipping,
customs clearance and other related charges. If Vislink
determines that the product is not defective within the terms of
this warranty, Buyer will pay Vislink all costs of handling,
transportation and repairs at the then prevailing repair rates.

d. All the above warranties are contingent upon proper use of
the product. These warranties will not apply (i) if adjustment,
repair, or product or parts replacement is required because of
accident, unusual physical, electrical or electromagnetic stress,
neglect, misuse, failure of electric power, environmental controls,
transportation, failure to maintained properly or otherwise in
accordance with Vislink specifications, or abuses other than

Notices iiiStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

ordinary use; (ii) if the product has been modified by Buyer or
has been repaired or altered outside Vislink's repair facility,
unless Vislink specifically authorizes such repairs or alterations
in each instance; or (iii) where Vislink serial numbers, warranty
data or quality assurance decals have been removed or altered.

e. No person, including any dealer, agent or representative of
Vislink is authorized to assume for Vislink any other liability on its
behalf except as set forth herein. If any payment is due Vislink
for services performed hereunder, it will be subject to the same
payment terms as the original purchase.

Products Manufactured By Others:

For products not manufactured by Vislink, the original
manufacturer's or licensor's warranty will be assigned to Buyer to
the extent permitted by the manufacturer or licensor and is in lieu
of any other warranty, expressed or implied. For warranty
information on a specific product, a written request should be
made to Vislink.

All Products:

materials used in connection with Buyer's order are for the sole
purpose of identifying the equipment and will not be construed as
an express warranty. Any suggestions by Vislink or its agents
regarding use, application or suitability of the equipment will not
be construed as an express warranty. No warranties may be
implied from any course of dealing or usage of trade. Buyer
agrees that the exclusion of all warranties, other than those
expressly provided herein, is reasonable.

THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES ARE
EXCLUSIVE AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, OBLIGATIONS, AND LIABILITIES ON
THE PART OF VISLINK. EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS
WARRANTIES STATED HEREIN, VISLINK DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES ON PRODUCTS FURNISHED HEREUNDER,
INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. VISLINK WILL HAVE NO
RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PARTICULAR APPLICATION
MADE OF ANY EQUIPMENT. Any description of equipment,
whether in writing or made orally by Vislink or its agents,
specification sheets, models, bulletins, drawings, or similar

Notices ivStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Contents

Notices - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i

About This Manual - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i
Copyright - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i
Proprietary Material - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ii

Conventions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ii

On-Line Viewing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ii
Symbols Used- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - iii
Warranty Information - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - iii

Product Manufactured by Vislink: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - iii

Products Manufactured By Others:- - - - - - - - - - - - iv

All Products: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - iv

Contents - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - v
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
What This Manual Covers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
How It’s Organized - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
Who It’s Written For - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
Related Documents - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
Ordering documentation- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-2
Calling for Service - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-2
Supported Repairs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-2
Tell Us What You Think! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3

Product Description- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1
System Description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1

RF and Demodulation Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1

Antenna and Power Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-3

Mounting and Deployment Options - - - - - - - - - - 2-4

System Integration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-4
System Components - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-4

Strata RXU - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-5

Strata RCU - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-5
Controls and Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-5
Typical System Configurations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-6
For More Information - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-14

Routine Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1
Overview of Controls - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1

Power Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1

Status LED - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2

Alphanumeric Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2

Control Switch- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2

Using the Strata RX Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-3

DC on Coax Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-4
Preparing for Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6

Setting Up - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6

Turning the power ON and OFF - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-8
Monitoring Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-9

Using the Monitor Screens in Ext IF Mode - - - - - - 3-9

Using the Monitor Screens in Analog Mode - - - - - 3-9

Using the Monitor Screens in Digital Mode- - - - - 3-10

Monitoring Link Quality (LQ) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-13

LQ Action Levels - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-14

What Actions to Take- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-14

Monitoring Bit Error Ratio (BER) - - - - - - - - - - - 3-16

Monitoring Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)- - - - - - - 3-17
Changing Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-18

Selecting a Preset - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-18

Selecting a Channel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-20

Selecting a Band - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-21

Selecting the IF Filter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-22

Setting the Monitor Output - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-23

Setting the Squelch Level - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-24

Setting the COFDM Bandwidth - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-25

Contents vStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Controlling DC Power on Coax - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-26
Front Panel Menu Maps - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-27
Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings - - - - - - - - - - 3-30

Troubleshooting - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1
Status LED - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1
Messages on Display- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-2
Error Codes - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-4

Primary Error Code- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-4

Error Status - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-10

Unit ID- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-10
Operational Problems - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-10

Advanced Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1
Before You Begin - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

RX System - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

RX Configurator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

System Rules- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-2
Creating a Configuration - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-2

Creating a New Configuration Offline - - - - - - - - - 5-2

Loading a Configuration From a File- - - - - - - - - - 5-4

Loading a Configuration From the RX- - - - - - - - - 5-6

Saving the Configuration to a File - - - - - - - - - - - 5-8
Programming the Configuration Into the RX - - - - - - 5-10
Monitoring the Radio - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-13

Start Monitoring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-13

Viewing the Monitoring Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-14

Using the Monitoring Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-15
Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings - - - - - - - - - - 5-18

Installation- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1
Unpacking - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1
Initial Inspection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1

Damage in Shipment - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1
Mounting and Cabling - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-2

Floor/Bulkhead Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-2
Tripod Deployment - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-3

Power Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-4

Power Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-4
Power Supply and Distribution - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-4

Additional Powering Notes - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-6
Grounding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-7
Audio Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-7

Panel Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-7

Analog Audio Output - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-8

Digital Audio Output (AES/EBU) - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-10
Signal Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-12
Data Connections- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-12

Remote Control- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-12

Radio Programming and Monitoring - - - - - - - - - 6-12

Wayside Data - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-13

Panel Data Connectors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-13

Multipurpose Data Cable - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-14

Networking - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-14
Powering Up - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-17

Checks before power-up - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-17

Initial power-up - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-17
Product Modifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-17

Repair - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1
Supported Repairs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1
Calling for Service - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1

Replacement Parts - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-1

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-1
External Cables - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-1
Mounting Hardware - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-2

Theory of Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-1

Contents viStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Chapter Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-1
System Architecture - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-1
RF Front End - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-3

Low Noise Block Down Converter (LNB)- - - - - - - 9-3
Low Noise Converter (LNC)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-3

Band-Specific RF Architecture - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-4
AGC/IF Module - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-10
Switch and IF Interface Module- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-10

Monitor and Output Switching - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-10

Audio Switching - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-12
Demodulation and Decoding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-13

COFDM Demodulator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-13

MPEG Decoder Circuit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-13
Distribution, Command and Control- - - - - - - - - - - - 9-13

Channels & Frequencies - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A-1

Appendix Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A-1
Initial Factory Presets - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A-1
US 2 GHz Reallocation - 12 MHz Channel Plan - - - A-11

Glossary - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - B-1
Configurator Reference - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1

Appendix Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1
Configurator Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1
Working With the Configurator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1

Tabs, Pages and Buttons - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1

Progress Bars - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-3

Load and Program Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-4
Configurator Pages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-6

Main Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-6

Radio Page - Standard - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-7

Radio Page - Frequencies Locked to Presets - - - C-8

COFDM Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-9

MPEG Page- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-9

FMR Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-11

Channel Plan Page - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-13

Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings - - - - - - - - - - - C-14
Configurator Troubleshooting - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-17

Configurator Error Messages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-17

Configurator Operational Problems - - - - - - - - - - C-19
Installing the Configurator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-21
PC Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-22
RX System Compatibility- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-22

Strata RX Compatibility - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-22

Link Quality- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-1

Appendix Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-1
Analog vs. Digital Systems - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-1
Understanding Link Quality - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-2

Description - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-2

The LQ Scale - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-2

LQ and Signal Quality - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-3

LQ Action Levels - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-3

What Actions to Take- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-4
Technical Background: LQ Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-5

RCL and SNR - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-5

FEC - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-5

GI - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-6

BW - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-6

BER - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D-7

Index - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i

Contents viiStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

Contents viiiStrata RX Technical Reference Manual

1

Introduction

Installation

Troubleshooting

1.1 Chapter Overview

This chapter will introduce you to the Technical Reference
Manual: what it covers, how it’s organized, and who it’s written
for.

1.2 What This Manual Covers

This manual covers how to install, operate and maintain the
Strata RX Receiver System. This manual includes all of the
content of the Strata RX Operator’s Guide, plus a great deal of
additional technical information.

1.3 How It’s Organized

The manuals for the Strata RX System are organized as follows:

Technical

Reference

Manual

Chapter

Operator’s

Guide

Repair

Replacement Parts

Theory of Operation

Appendix A - Channels
& Frequencies

Appendix B - Glossary

Appendix C ­Configurator Reference

Appendix D - Link
Quality

Note

The Technical Reference Manual contains
everything in the Operator’s Guide, plus
additional technical content.

Introduction

Product Description

Routine Operation

Advanced Operation

1.4 Who It’s Written For

This manual is intended for use by qualified installers and
technical personnel. Users of this manual should already be
familiar with the fundamentals of radio, video, and audio.

1.5 Related Documents

• Strata RX Operator’s Guide

Introduction 1-1Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

(part no. 400494-1)

• Strata RX Quick Reference Card
(part no. 400496-1)

• Strata RX Remote Control Panel
(part no. 400497-1)

1.6 Ordering documentation

During regular business hours you can reach our expert staff
directly. After hours, your call will be forwarded to the on-call
technical support specialist.

Business Hours: Monday

8:00 AM - 5:00PM Eastern Time (US)

(0800 - 1700 hrs US ET)

Any of the above manuals may be ordered by contacting Vislink
Communications Ltd. Customer Service, at our US Support
Centre:

Business Hours: Monday - Friday

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Eastern Time (US)

(0800 - 1700 hrs US ET)

Telephone: [phone]

978-671-5700

Fax: [phone]

When contacting Customer Service, please have the following
information available:

• Model number and serial number of the unit. This is
located on a label on the bottom of each unit.

• Approximate purchase date.

• Firmware revision, which appears on the display at
startup.

Tuesday - Friday

8:00 AM - 7:00PM Eastern Time (US)

(0800 - 1900 hrs US ET)

Telephone: [phone]

978-671-5700

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

When contacting Technical Support, please have the following
information available:

• Model number and serial number of the unit. This is
located on a label on the bottom of each unit.

• Approximate purchase date.

• Firmware revision, which appears on the display at
startup.

1.7 Calling for Service

Technical Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
through Vislink Communications Ltd.’s US Support Centre.

1.8 Supported Repairs

The Strata RX System (including the RXU and RCU) is designed

Introduction 1-2Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

to be compact, rugged and reliable.

Both the RXU and RCU require specialized test equipment to
calibrate amplitude and frequency characteristics after repair. In
addition, sealing the enclosure after repair requires exacting
techniques and special fixtures to ensure its weather resistance.

Therefore, there are NO supported field repairs to either the
RXU or RCU.

Return the entire unit for factory repair.

If you attempt field repair you risk damaging your radio. If

the radio is under warranty, you may also affect your warranty
coverage.

1.9 Tell Us What You Think!

We’d love to receive any comments or suggestions you have
about this manual. The more feedback we get, the better the
manuals get!

Technical Reference Manual.

If you’re viewing this manual electronically, it’s easy - just click on
the link below send us an email.

Feedback

Or, you can email our Technical Services team at our US
Support Centre:

[e-mail].

Be sure to tell us what product you’re writing about, and which
manual - the Operator’s Guide, the Quick Reference Card, or the

Introduction 1-3Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Introduction 1-4Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

2

Product Description

2.1 Chapter Overview

operation.

RF and demodulation functions are split between the RXU and
RCU, according to your needs. See the descriptions below and
the configurations illustrated in Section 2.5 on page 2-6.

This chapter provides an overall description of the Strata RX, its
components, and its capabilities.

Here are the topics covered:

Topic Page

System Description 2-1

RF and Demodulation Options 2-1

Antenna and Power Options 2-3

Mounting and Deployment Options 2-4

System Integration 2-4

System Components 2-4

Strata RXU 2-5

Strata RCU 2-5

Controls and Connections 2-5

Typical System Configurations 2-6

For More Information 2-14

2.2.1 RF and Demodulation Options

Bands The RX System can be ordered configured for any one
of several RF bands. In addition, selected combinations of band
segments are available in a two-band version. We are constantly
working to expand and upgrade the capabilities of the RX
System. Consult your Sales Representative or contact the
factory for the latest band availability.

RF/IF Only If you are integrating the RX System into existing
equipment and need only the RF front end, your RX System will
have only an RXU. The RXU will contain all the RF amplifiers
and downconvertors, and provides a 70 MHz IF output for an
external demodulator. The RXU also incorporates switchable IF
filtering, with settings optimized for either analog or digital
signals.

RF + Analog Demodulation If you need both RF and analog
demodulation functions, you can choose one of two solutions:

• Standalone RXU

- The RXU contains the RF front end, switchable IF

filters, and either an NTSC or PAL demodulator (but
not both).

2.2 System Description

The Strata RX is a highly capable, compact microwave receiver
system. The RX System is composed of the RXU Receiver Unit
and the RCU Receiver Control Unit. This modular architecture
allows you the maximum flexibility in configuration, siting, and

Product Description 2-1Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

- The RXU also contains a Low Pass Filter, which can

be configured to be in or out of the video signal path.

- The RXU provides either NTSC or PAL composite

video output, with 4 channels of analog audio.

- Ideal for minimizing space and weight.

• RXU + RCU

- The RXU contains only the RF front end and
switchable IF filters, and provides a 70 MHz IF output.

- The RCU contains either an NTSC or PAL
demodulator (but not both), and provides either NTSC
or PAL composite video output with 4 channels of
analog audio.

MPEG decoder, the system also includes a color bar
generator.

- The RCU provides either composite or digital video
output, with either digital or analog audio (or both).

- Used for situations where the RCU and RXU must be
deployed in different locations up to 600’ (200 m)
apart.

- The RCU also contains a Low Pass Filter, which is
always in the video signal path.

- Used for situations where the RCU and RXU must be
deployed in different locations up to 600’ (200 m)
apart.

The analog demodulation (NTSC or PAL) is specified when
ordering the RXU or RCU, and cannot be changed in the field.

RF + Digital Demodulation If you need both RF and digital
demodulation functions, you once again can choose from two
solutions:

• Standalone RXU

- The RXU contains the RF front end with switchable IF
filters, a COFDM demodulator, and can also include
an MPEG decoder.

- The RXU provides either composite or digital video
output, with either digital or analog audio (or both).

- Ideal for minimizing space and weight.

• RXU + RCU

- The RXU contains only the RF front end with
switchable IF filtering, and provides a 70 MHz IF
output.

- The RCU contains a COFDM demodulator and can
include an MPEG decoder. When equipped with an

RF + Analog + Digital Demodulation If you need the capability
to switch between analog and digital operation, your RX system
will have both an RXU and an RCU.

• RXU + RCU

- The RXU contains only the RF front end with
switchable IF filtering, and provides a 70 MHz IF
output.

- The RCU contains a COFDM demodulator, and can
include an MPEG decoder. When equipped with an
MPEG decoder, the system also includes a color bar
generator.

- The RCU provides either composite or digital video
output, with either digital or analog audio (or both).

- The RCU also contains either an NTSC or PAL
demodulator (but not both), and provides either NTSC
or PAL composite video output with 4 channels of
analog audio.

- The RCU also contains a Low Pass Filter, which is
always in the video signal path.

- Also allows the RCU and RXU to be deployed in
different locations up to 600’ (200 m) apart.

The analog demodulation (NTSC or PAL) is specified when
ordering the RCU, and cannot be changed in the field.

Product Description 2-2Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Analog or Digital Demodulation Only If you are integrating
the RX System into existing equipment and need only the
demodulation functions, your RX will have only an RCU. The
RCU can be equipped with an analog demodulator, a digital
demodulator, or both. When the optional MPEG decoder is also
installed, the system includes a color bar generator. The RCU
also contains a Low Pass Filter, which is always in the video
signal path.

supplied to each unit through its power connector, from the same
power source. See Figure 2-1.

If your installation calls for separating the RXU and RCU, the
RXU is powered by DC supplied by the RCU via the coaxial
cable between the units. See Figure 2-2.

Refer to the “Installation” chapter of the Strata RX Technical
Reference Manual for more information.

Since the switchable IF filters are in the RXU, this capability is
not part of the demodulator-only system.

2.2.2 Antenna and Power Options

The flexible architecture of the Strata RX allows a number of
options for both the receive antenna and the power.

Antenna Options The Strata RX is fully compatible with
Vislink’s families of receive antennas, including:

• OmniPole omnidirectional

• Megahorn compact horn

• SectorScan flat panel

•MicroScan parabolic

• Ellipse parabolic

Contact your Sales Representative to explore the wide array of
antenna choices available.

Power Options The Strata RX system runs on DC power
supplied externally, from +10.5 VDC to +36 VDC. This can be
supplied by the optional Strata ACU power supply, or from
another source. Certain other voltages can be accommodated by
special request; contact your Sales Representative for the latest
details.

Figure 2-1: Powering the RXU and RCU Independently

Strata RXU Strata RCU

Power
Cable

DC Power (+10.5 V - +36 V)

Figure 2-2: Powering the RXU from the RCU

Coax

Strata RXU

up to 600’
(200 m)

DC Power (+10.5 V - +36 V)

Power
Cable

Strata RCU

Power
Cable

If the RXU and RCU are located together, power is usually

Product Description 2-3Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

WARNING

Turn off DC Power on the coax before
connecting any test equipment.

System Operation Once the RXU and RCU are connected and
communicating, the units work seamlessly together. System
settings can be selected and modified from the front panel of
either unit - regardless of which unit holds the hardware being
configured.

2.2.3 Mounting and Deployment Options

The Strata RX offers a number of options for either mobile or
portable applications.

For more details on installation of the Strata RX in various
applications, see the Strata RX Technical Reference Manual,
in the “Installation” chapter.

Mobile Installation For mobile applications such as aircraft, the
Strata RX will usually be mounted in a Vislink Fixed Mounting
Bracket, and installed in a bulkhead or compartment. The cabling
is permanently installed, and power comes from aircraft or
vehicle power.

Portable Deployment In portable applications the Strata RX
will be moved from place to place and set up each time. The
RXU and RCU will usually be mounted in a Vislink Universal
Mounting Bracket. The Bracket will then be attached to a tripod
using a Mounting Plate and Quick Release.

The cabling between RXU and RCU is typically left in place, and
the power, antenna and audio/video connections are removed at
the end of each deployment.

System Configuration The Strata RX offers two levels of
system configuration, designed to match the needs of different
personnel.

For the field operator, the RX System has up to 9 Presets that
can be selected from the front panel. Each Preset controls key
parameters such as modulation, frequency, and audio and video
settings. Additional settings that are front-panel-controlled
include band, channel, offset, and filtering.

For the advanced operator and technical staff, the Strata RX
Configurator software allows complete control of all parameters
in the RX System. The Configurator runs on a Windows PC, and
connects to either the RXU or the RCU via an RS-232 serial
interface.

Interfacing a PC to either the RXU or RCU in a connected
system gives you complete control of both units. You can read
the current settings, program new settings, or return the units to
their factory default settings. The Configurator software
automatically detects what hardware is installed in the system,
and assigns the appropriate configuration to the correct
hardware - regardless of which unit the hardware is installed in.

2.2.4 System Integration

System Communication When the RXU and RCU are
connected, they automatically communicate via signals
superimposed on the coaxial cable between the two units. This
allows them to share information on installed hardware, preset
configurations, current status, and alarms.

Product Description 2-4Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

2.3 System Components

This section will provide more details about each the
components of a Strata RX System:

• RXU Receiver Unit

• RCU Receiver Control Unit

2.3.1 Strata RXU

2.4 Controls and Connections

The RXU will always contain an RF front end and switchable IF
filters, and in addition may contain one of the following:

• an analog demodulator, either NTSC or PAL (but not both)

• a digital demodulator with COFDM and/or MPEG.

When a demodulator (either analog or digital) is installed in the
RXU, no demodulator can be installed in the RCU.

2.3.2 Strata RCU

The RCU will always contain a demodulator, either analog or
digital. The options are:

• an analog demodulator, either NTSC or PAL (but not both)

• a digital demodulator with COFDM and/or MPEG

• both analog and digital demodulators.

When the RCU is part of the RX System, the RXU cannot also
have a demodulator installed.

An RCU is used when:

• your usage requires the antenna and the RF front end (in
the RXU) to be separated from the operating location (the
RCU)

• you need to be able to switch between analog and digital
operation.

If your RXU or RCU contains a digital demodulator, it provides
the following additional features:

• a wayside data channel, capable of data rates from 1200
to 38,400 baud

• a configurable Monitor output, which can provide either 70
MHz or ASI output

Front and rear views of the Strata RXU and RCU are shown in
the pages that follow, under “Typical System Configurations”.

For details on the connections, refer to the Strata RX Technical

Reference Manual, in the “Installation” chapter.

Display and Control

Both the RXU and RCU have a two-line display to keep you
apprised of system status. All front panel functions are controlled
by a single knob, as described below.

Turning the knob to the right
displays Monitor Screens
providing current status of the RX
System, including:

• band and frequency settings

• signal quality

• demodulation settings

• error codes.

Turning the knob to the left
displays Command Screens
allowing control of the RX System,
including:

• selected Preset

• channel and offset

• band and frequency

Audio Connector

If your RXU or RCU is equipped with a demodulator (either
analog or digital), there will be an audio connector installed.
Available on this 10-pin connector are the analog or digital audio
channels, depending on how your radio is configured.

Product Description 2-5Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

If your RXU is not equipped with a demodulator, this connector is
replaced by a blank panel.

Monitor (MON.) Connector

If your RXU or RCU has COFDM/MPEG installed, this rear panel
output can be configured (when operating in digital mode) to
provide either:

• 70 MHz IF

• ASI (output of COFDM demodulator, before MPEG
decoding)

If your RXU or RCU is equipped with an analog demodulator, this
connector provides only the 70MHz IF signal.

If your RXU is not equipped with a demodulator, this connector is
present but not functional.

GEN LOCK Connector

If your RXU or RCU has COFDM/MPEG installed, this rear panel
input allows you to supply an external synchronization signal
(400 mV p-p nominal) to the MPEG decoder. The RX System
must be configured to use this signal using the RX configurator
software.

2.5 Typical System Configurations

The figures that follow provide a number of typical configurations
for RX Systems. The illustrations are arranged in the same order
as the descriptions in Section 2.2 on page 2-1.

If the System is configured to accept a GEN LOCK signal and
none is present, the MPEG decoder will automatically supply an
internal synchronization signal.

If your RXU or RCU is not equipped with COFDM/MPEG, this
connector is replaced by a blank panel.

Product Description 2-6Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-3: RF/IF Only

SYSTEM
INPUT

RF from
Antenna

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

RF
Front
End

RX

RXU SYSTEM

OUTPUT

70 MHz IF

70 MHz IF

RXU

PWR/RS-485

PWR

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RS-232

Product Description 2-7Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-4: RF + Analog Demodulation (RXU only)

STRATA

SYSTEM
INPUT

RF from
Antenna

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

RX

RXU SYSTEM

RF
Front
End

STRATA

RXU

Analog
Demod
(NTSC or
PAL)

70 MHz IF

PWR/RS-485

PWR

OUTPUT

Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)
+
4 channels
Analog Audio

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RS-232

Product Description 2-8Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-5: RF + Analog Demodulation (RXU + RCU)

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

INPUT

RF from
Antenna

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

RXU SYSTEM

RF
Front
End

70 MHz IF

RCUSYSTEM

Analog
Demod
(NTSC or
PAL )

MON.

70 MHz IF

RX

STRATA

RCU

RX

RXU

70 MHz IF

PWR/RS-485

PWR

OUTPUT

Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)
+
4 channels
Analog Audio

ON

OFF

DC
ON COAX

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RS-232

POWER/RS-485

SIGNAL
OUTPUT

MON. GEN

LOCK

SIGNAL IN

AUDIO

Product Description 2-9Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-6: RF + Digital Demodulation (RXU Only)

STRATA

SYSTEM
INPUT

RF from
Antenna

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

RF
Front
End

RX

RXU SYSTEM

OUTPUT

SDI

- or ­ASI (output of

Digital
Demod
COFDM
(+ MPEG)

STRATA

RXU

70 MHz IF
or ASI

PWR/RS-485

PWR

COFDM demod)

- or ­External IF

- or ­Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)

+

4 Channels analog audio

- or ­2 Channels analog audio +
2 Channels digital audio

- or ­4 channels digital audio

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RS-232

Product Description 2-10Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-7: RF + Digital Demodulation (RXU + RCU)

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

INPUT

RF from
Antenna

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

RF
Front
End

RX

RXU SYSTEM

RCUSYSTEM

OUTPUT

SDI

- or ­ASI (output of
COFDM demod)

- or ­External IF

- or ­Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)

+

4 Channels analog audio

- or ­2 Channels analog audio +
2 Channels digital audio

- or ­4 channels digital audio

ON

OFF

DC
ON COAX

70 MHz IF

RXU

70 MHz IF
(Digital)

PWR/RS-485

PWR

Digital
Demod
COFDM
(+ MPEG)

MON.

70 MHz IF
or ASI

RX

STRATA

RCU

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RS-232

POWER/RS-485

SIGNAL
OUTPUT

MON. GEN

LOCK

SIGNAL IN

AUDIO

Product Description 2-11Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-8: RF + Both Analog and Digital Demodulation (RXU + RCU)

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

SYSTEM
INPUT

RF from
Antenna

MON.

RXU RCU SYSTEM

RF
Front
End

70 MHz IF

70 MHz IF

Digital
Demod
COFDM
(+ MPEG)

MON.

Analog
Demod
(NTSC or
PAL )

+

70 MHz IF
or ASI

OUTPUT

SDI

- or ­ASI (output of
COFDM demod)

- or ­External IF

- or ­Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)

4 Channels analog audio

- or ­2 Channels analog audio +
2 Channels digital audio

- or ­4 channels digital audio

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

MON.

GEN
LOCK

RX

RXU

RX

STRATA

RCU

LOCK

SIGNAL IN

DC
ON COAX

AUDIO

ON

OFF

PWR

RS-232

PWR/RS-485

POWER/RS-485

SIGNAL
OUTPUT

MON. GEN

Product Description 2-12Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 2-9: Demodulation Only

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

SYSTEM
INPUT

70 MHz IF

Digital
Demod
COFDM
(+ MPEG)

MON.

RCU SYSTEM

OUTPUT

Can be equipped with
either analog or digital
demodulators or both

Analog
Demod
(NTSC or
PAL)

70 MHz IF
or ASI

STRATA

RX

RCU

SDI

- or ­ASI (output of
COFDM demod)

- or ­External IF

- or ­Composite Video
(NTSC or PAL)

+

4 Channels analog audio

- or ­2 Channels analog audio +
2 Channels digital audio

- or ­4 channels digital audio

ON

OFF

DC
ON COAX

Only present with
MPEG decoder

POWER/RS-485

SIGNAL
OUTPUT

MON. GEN

LOCK

SIGNAL IN

AUDIO

Product Description 2-13Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

2.6 For More Information

More detailed technical information about the Strata RX can be
found in the Strata RX Technical Reference Manual. Specific
topics are listed below:

Topic Chapter

Installation Installation

Connections to other
equipment

Changing settings using the
Configurator software

Block Diagram Theory of Operation

Supported Repairs Repair

Repair Parts Replacement Parts

Installation

Advanced Operation

Product Description 2-14Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3

Routine Operation

3.2 Overview of Controls

This section describes the controls and indicators used on the
RXU and RCU. Here are the topics covered:

3.1 Chapter Overview

This chapter provides basic information that will enable you to
operate your Strata RX. The settings described here are all
made using the front panel Control Switch.

Information on settings made with the RX Configurator software
can be found in the Strata RX Technical Reference Manual, in
the “Advanced Operation” chapter.

For a summary of what settings can be made with the front panel
Control Switch and which are made using the Configurator, see
Section 3.7 on page 3-30.

Here are the topics covered:

Topic Page

Overview of Controls 3-1

Preparing for Operation 3-6

Monitoring Operation 3-9

Changing Settings 3-18

Front Panel Menu Maps 3-27

Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings 3-30

Topic Page

Used on both RXU and RCU

Power Switch 3-1

Status LED 3-2

Alphanumeric Display 3-2

Control Switch 3-2

Using the Strata RX Screens 3-3

Used on RCU only

DC on Coax Switch 3-4

Each of these is described in more detail in the sections that
follow. Front panel views of the RXU and RCU are shown in
Figure 3-2 on page 3-5.

The RX System may also be configured using Windows PC­based configurator software. For details see the Strata RX
Technical Reference Manual, in the “Advanced Operation”
chapter.

For a summary of what settings can be made with the front panel
Control Switch and which are made using the Configurator, see
Section 3.7 on page 3-30.

3.2.1 Power Switch

The RXU and RCU each has its own front panel power switch. If
your RX System contains both an RCU and an RXU, both power
switches must be turned on for the system to function.

Routine Operation 3-1Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.2.2 Status LED

3.2.4 Control Switch

Above the Power Switch on both the RCU and RXU is a multi­color Status LED. The LED indications are as follows:

LED Color Meaning

----- Power is not on in that unit.

Green Power is on and no errors are detected.

Amber Minor Alarm - Power is on but some part of the

system reports an abnormal condition that might
impair performance.

Red Major Alarm - Power is on but there is a failure

or error that prevents normal operation.

CAUTION

A Major Alarm may also indicate a
potential safety hazard. Shut down the RX
System and disconnect power.

3.2.3 Alphanumeric Display

The RXU and RCU each have a two-line by 12-character
alphanumeric display. The display works in concert with the
Control Switch to allow you to monitor system status, and to
control system settings.

Routine operating settings are controlled by the Control Switch.
See Figure 3-2 on page 3-5.

Turning the Control Switch right or left displays status and
settings, and pushing it in makes selections, as described below:

Turnin g the Control Switch to the right
displays the Monitor Screens.
These provide current status of the RX System,
including:

• band and frequency settings

• signal quality

• demodulation settings

• error codes.

Turnin g the Control Switch to the left
displays the Command Screens.
These allow control of the RX System, including:

• selected Preset

• channel and offset

• IF filter

See Figure 3-2 on page 3-5.

Routine Operation 3-2Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Pushing the Control Switch in
causes an action to occur.

Command Screens

• If the displayed setting is one of several choices,
pushing the Switch causes the displayed setting to
blink.
Turning the Control Switch then displays the other
choices for that setting.
When the desired choice is displayed, pressing the
Control Switch again selects that choice.

• If the displayed setting is one of only two choices,
pushing the Switch causes the setting to switch to
the other choice (e.g., if A is displayed, pushing in
the Control Switch selects B).

Monitor Screens

• Pushing the Switch locks the current screen on the
display (the display will not default to the Main
Screen).

3.2.5 Using the Strata RX Screens

As you use your Strata RX, you will interact extensively with the
screens and menus. Following are some points to make this
easier.

Main Screen The Main Screen is your starting point for
navigating through the Monitor and Command screens. The
Main Screen provides the current values of Preset, signal
strength, and Link Quality.

When the Strata RX is finished its power-up sequence, it will
display the Main Screen.

Typical Main Screens are shown in Figure 3-1.

Figure 3-1: Typical Main Screens

Currently selected Preset

Analog
Mode

Digital
Mode

• Pushing the Switch again unlocks the display, and
allows it to default to the Main Screen.

Routine Operation 3-3Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Preset#3

-43.2 dBm

Current signal

Preset#3

-43.2 dBm LQ7

Current Link Quality

strength

Accessing the Main Screen You can access the Main Screen
at any time by scrolling to the end of the screens you are viewing
(either Monitor or Command). Your next click of the Control
Switch will bring up the Main Screen. See “Front Panel Menu
Maps” on page 3-27.

Default to Main Screen If you do not turn or push the Control

Switch for a period of about 7 seconds, the display will default to
the Main Screen.

If you turn the Control Switch within those 7 seconds, you will
continue scrolling within that set of screens (Command or
Monitor).

Screen Lock Some Monitor Screens display readings that you
may wish to monitor continuously, such as the Bit Error Ratio
(BER). To do this, scroll to the Monitor Screen you want to
observe, then push the Control Switch. This will lock the display
on that screen, but still allow updating of the displayed data.
When the display is locked, turning the Control Switch will have
no effect. Note also that the Error Monitor Screen cannot be
locked.

To unlock the display, simply push the Control Switch again. The
display will then switch to the Main Screen.

Unit vs.System Control If you’re using a standalone RXU or
RCU, the menus and options that appear on the display will be
based on what hardware is installed in that individual unit.

When you connect your RCU and RXU, the two units
automatically detect what hardware is installed in which unit, and
automatically configure the menus and options to match the
installed hardware.

3.2.6 DC on Coax Switch

The Strata RX allows you to power the RXU using DC supplied
by the RCU. This DC power is superimposed on the coax cable
that connects the RCU and RXU. This powering option is used
when the RCU and the RXU must be deployed in two separate
locations.

The Strata RX gives you two ways to control this DC power on
the coax cable:

• the “DC ON COAX” switch on the front panel of the RCU.

• the “DC Power” Command Screen.

Both control methods must be enabled for this powering to be
operational.

DC ON COAX Switch To set the front panel switch to allow DC
Power on the coax, simply turn the recessed screw until the slot
of the screw points to “ON”.

To disable DC Power on the coax, turn the screw until the slot
points to “OFF”. See Figure 3-2 on page 3-5.

Command Screen See Section 3.5.8 on page 3-26.

The connected RX System then allows you to control the entire
system from either front panel, regardless of what hardware is
installed in which unit.

Routine Operation 3-4Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 3-2: Front view - RXU and RCU

RCU

RX

DC
ON COAX

OFF

ON

STRATA

STRATA

Display

AUDIO SIGNAL OUTPUT

RX

Control
Switch

RX

STRATA

RCU

STRATA

RXU

Status
LED

PWR

DC
ON COAX

Power
Switch

PWR/RS-485

ON

OFF

DC On Coax
Switch

Routine Operation 3-5Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.3 Preparing for Operation

3.3.1 Setting Up

Each installation or deployment will have its own specific tasks
according to the application and the installed hardware.

Mobile Installation For mobile applications such as aircraft or
vehicle, the Strata RX is usually mounted in a bulkhead or
compartment using a Vislink Fixed Mounting Bracket. The
cabling is permanently installed and power comes from aircraft
(or vehicle) power.

Figure 3-3: Fixed Mounting Bracket on Tripod

Fixed Mounting
Bracket

Quick Release

For situations where you need to mount an RX and its Fixed
Mounting Bracket to a Vislink Tripod, Vislink also offers a Quick
Release. See Figure 3-3.

For situations where you are mounting to another type of tripod
that doesn’t directly accept the Quick Release, consult with
Vislink or your tripod manufacturer. Vislink has Dovetail Adapter
Plates that will convert some types of tripods to accept the Quick
Release.

Vislink Tripod

Portable Deployment For portable applications where the
Strata RX will be moved from place to place and set up each
time, the RX will usually be mounted in a Vislink Universal
Mounting Bracket. The Bracket will then be attached to a Quick
Release for easy mounting on a Vislink tripod. See Figure 3-4.

For applications using both an RXU and RCU, a Mounting Plate
is also used to provide additional stiffness. The Mounting Plate is
typically left attached to the Mounting Bracket.

The cabling between RXU and RCU is also typically left in place.
The power, antenna and audio/video connections are usually
removed at the end of each deployment.

For situations where you are mounting to another type of tripod
that doesn’t directly accept the Quick Release, consult with
Vislink or your tripod manufacturer. Vislink has Dovetail Adapter

Routine Operation 3-6Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Plates that will convert some types of tripods to accept the Quick
Release.

Figure 3-4: Universal Mounting Bracket on Tripod

Universal Mounting
Bracket

are connected to each other via coaxial cable.

If you are unsure of the connections, refer to the
“Installation” chapter of the Strata RX Technical
Reference Manual.

4. Connect the Strata RXU (and RCU, if present) to DC
power of the correct voltage and polarity.

Mounting Plate
(for RXU + RCU)

Quick Release

Vislink Tripod

Mounting to the Tripod Following are the general steps to
mount a Strata RX to a Vislink Tripod. These steps assume the
RX is already assembled into its Bracket, and that the Mounting
Plate and Quick Release are attached.

1. Attach the RX to the Tripod using the Quick Release
as shown in Figure 3-5.

If you’re using a Strata ACU, connect the AC input to
AC power and connect the DC output to the RXU and
RCU.

If you are unsure of the power requirements or the
connections, refer to the “Installation” chapter of the
Strata RX Technical Reference Manual.

5. Connect the RXU (or RCU) outputs to your audio and
video equipment.

Figure 3-5: Attaching Quick Release to Tripod

Quick Release

Tripod

2. Attach the antenna to the RXU using the Antenna
Lock Plate, or connect a cable from the RXU to the
antenna. See Figure 3-6.

3. If you have both an RXU and an RCU, be sure they

Routine Operation 3-7Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 3-6: Complete Tripod Installation

Antenna
Lock Plate

Mounting
Bracket

RXU

RCU

- The LED above the power switch should illuminate
and change colors from red, to green, to amber, and
finally green.

- The display should light up and display first a self-test
screen, then the version of the installed firmware, and
finally the Main Screen.
Some typical screens are given in Figure 3-7.
The exact screens will vary depending on installed
hardware.

- The RX System will typically power up using the last
settings in use when power was turned off.
If the Strata RX does not power up normally, refer to
the “Troubleshooting” chapter.

Antenna

Quick
Release

Vislink
Tripod

3.3.2 Turning the power ON and OFF

1. Be sure the Strata system is connected to power and
the RXU and RCU are connected. See the section
“Setting Up”.

2. To turn power on, flip the Power switch on the RXU
(and RCU, if present) to the “ON” position ( I ).

3. The normal power-up sequence is as follows:

4. To turn power off, flip the Power switch to the “OFF”
position ( O ).

Figure 3-7: Typical Power-up Screens

Firmware
Version

Main Screen
(Analog Mode)

Main Screen
(Digital Mode)

Strata RXU
v 0.1.1

Preset#3
Squelch

OR

Preset#3

-38.9 dBm LQ7

Routine Operation 3-8Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.4 Monitoring Operation

Once the RX is set up and powered, you’ll need to check its
configuration and monitor its operation.

occurring. The only Monitor Screens that will appear are

• Main Screen

•RF

The following sections describe how to use the Monitor Screens
and how to monitor the quality of the microwave link.

Here are the tasks described:

Topic Page

Using the Monitor Screens in Ext IF
Mode

Using the Monitor Screens in Analog
Mode

Using the Monitor Screens in Digital
Mode

Monitoring Link Quality (LQ) 3-13

LQ Action Levels 3-14

What Actions to Take 3-14

Monitoring Bit Error Ratio (BER) 3-16

Monitoring Signal-to-Noise Ratio
(SNR)

3-9

3-9

3-10

3-17

• Input Signal

• Error Code

See Figure 3-8 for an overview of what is reported on these
Monitor Screens.

Settings vs. Detected Values vs. Measured Values

In External IF operation, all but one of the values in the Monitor
screens are settings that are configured in the RX. The only
measured value is the incoming signal strength. There are no
values that are detected and automatically set to match the
parameters of the incoming signal.

3.4.2 Using the Monitor Screens in Analog Mode

When the RX is being used to demodulate an analog signal and
provide analog video and audio output, it is in Analog Mode.

Since there is analog demodulation taking place, all the Monitor
Screens will be active. These screens will report on the analog
audio and video demodulation settings.

See Figure 3-8 for an overview of what is reported on these
Monitor Screens.

3.4.1 Using the Monitor Screens in Ext IF Mode

When the RX is being used to receive an RF signal (analog or
digital) and produce only a 70 MHz IF, it is in “Ext IF” (External
IF) Mode.

In Ext IF mode, the Monitor Screens that report on demodulation
functions are all turned off, since there is no demodulation

Routine Operation 3-9Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Settings vs. Detected Values vs. Measured Values

In Analog operation, all but one of the values in the Monitor
screens are settings that are configured in the RX. The only
measured value is the incoming signal strength. There are no
values that are detected and automatically set to match the
parameters of the incoming signal.

3.4.3 Using the Monitor Screens in Digital Mode

When the RX is being used to demodulate a digital signal and
provide audio and video output, it is in Digital Mode.

• Derived Values are calculated by the RX based on

characteristics of the incoming signal. These are:

- BER (Pre- and Post-Viterbi Bit Error Ratio)

Since there is digital demodulation taking place, all the Monitor
Screens will be active. These screens will report the digital audio
and video demodulation status.

See Figure 3-8 for an overview of what is reported on these
Monitor Screens.

Settings, Detected, Measured, and Derived Values

In Digital operation, there are four types of values reported on
the Monitor Screens:

• Detected values, which the RX senses and automatically
configures to match the parameters of the incoming
signal. Detected values are:

- Modulation

- FEC (Forward Error Correction)

- GI (Guard Interval)

- Audio Type

• Settings, which are configured in the RX, and must be
manually set to match the incoming signal. Settings are:

- SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio)

- LQ (Link Quality)

- Preset

- Band, Channel, Frequency

- COFDM Bandwidth

- IF Filter

-Color Bar

• Measurements are made by the RX on the incoming
signal, and consist of:

- Received Carrier Level

Routine Operation 3-10Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 3-8: Monitor Screens - Ext IF and Analog Modes

Band Channel #

Frequency (MHz)

Operating Mode (External IF or Analog)

IF Filter (Analog/Digital)

Audio Channel (ON/OFF)

Audio Subcarrier Frequency (MHz)

Preset #

Received Signal Level (dBm)

Video Deviation (MHz)

Video Mute Status (ON/OFF)

Monitor Screens

TURN to

select

PUSH to

hold

Digital

Ext IF

Analog

Common

Main
Screen

Preset 3

-43.2 dBm

2GHz C2

2016.500MHz

Ext IF
IF Fil Ana

Audio#1 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Audio#2 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Audio#3 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Audio#4 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Vid Dev 4MHz
Vid Mute OFF

AnalogExt IF

Analog FM
IF Fil Ana

RF

Input
Signal

Audio 1

Audio 2

Audio 3

Audio 4

Video

Audio Channel De-Emphasis (ON/OFF)

Error Code(s) Currently Active

Aud De-emph
1:ON 2:ON

Aud De-emph
3:ON 4:ON

E154 44

Audio
Emphasis 1/2

Audio
Emphasis 3/4

Error Code

Routine Operation 3-11Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 3-9: Monitor Screens - Digital Mode

Digital

2GHz C2

2016.500MHz LQ7

RF

RF Band Channel #

Frequency (MHz) Link Quality Reading

Modulation OFDM Bandwidth

Main
Screen

Preset 3

-43.2 dBm LQ7

COQPSK 8MHz
FE1/2 GI1/8

PRE 2.0E-7
POST 0.0E-7

SNR 20.7 dB
IF Fil Dig

COFDM LOCK
TRANS LOCK

Video Out CV
Locked: Yes

Aud A Lock
Analog Mono

Aud B Lock
Analog Mono

ClrBar OFF

Input
Signal

BER

SNR

COFDM

Video

Audio A

Audio B

Color
Bar

Forward Error Correction Guard Interval

Pre-Viterbi Bit Error Ratio

Post-Viterbi Bit Error Ratio

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (dB)

IF Filter Setting (Analog/Digital)

COFDM Status (LOCK/UNLOCK)

Transport Stream Status (LOCK/UNLOCK)

Preset #

Received Carrier Level

Video Output Setting (CV = Composite Video)

Video Data Status (Locked: Yes/No)

Audio Data Status (Lock/Unlock)

Audio Type (Analog/Digital, Stereo/Mono)

Color Bar Generator Setting (ON/OFF)

No Errors

Error
Code

Error Code(s) Currently Active

Routine Operation 3-12Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.4.4 Monitoring Link Quality (LQ)

One of the key differences between analog and digital
transmission is how the receiving system reacts to degrading
signal quality.

Analog Systems In an analog system, degrading signal quality
begins almost immediately to degrade the quality of the
demodulated video and audio. This provides an ‘early warning’
that signal quality is worsening, long before the video is lost.

Digital Systems In a digital system, degrading signal quality
initially has no effect on the video and audio. Error-correction
algorithms correct the errors, and video remains clean.

As the signal quality continues to deteriorate, it reaches a point
when the algorithms cannot correct all the errors. As the errors
get worse, the MPEG decoder will be unable to construct an
image, and video will suddenly be lost.

Table 3-1: Link Quality Levels

LQ

Reading

LInk Quality Description

9 Excellent Link Quality - COFDM link is very robust

with ample ability to correct for degradation.

8 Very Good Link Quality - COFDM link is robust for

the given environment.

7 Standard Link Quality - COFDM link is acceptable

for current environment.

6Average Link Quality - COFDM link is average -

might improve or worsen.

5 Below Average Link Quality - COFDM link is

marginal, not dependable.

Operators sometimes refer to this sudden loss of video, with little
or no apparent warning, as “falling off a cliff”.

Link Quality Vislink has developed the Link Quality indicator
to give you back that ‘early warning’ of an analog system. Link
Quality monitors several key parameters and uses proprietary
algorithms to derive one simple indication of digital signal quality.

The Link Quality algorithms report one LQ (Link Quality) result,
scaled from 0 to 9 as shown in Table 3-1.

For more information on Link Quality, refer to Appendix D, “Link
Quality“.

Routine Operation 3-13Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

4 Poor Link Quality - COFDM link is unstable -

quality is intermittent and unpredictable.

1 - 3 Unsatisfactory Link Quality - COFDM link is not

locked.

0 No signal detected.

Checking Link Quality To check the Link Quality, follow these
steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Link Quality is displayed on the Main
Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm LQ7

To lock this screen on the display, do the following:

Push the Control Switch to lock the
display on this screen. Data on
display will continue to update.

To allow the display to show other screens, do the
following:

Push the Control Switch to unlock the
display.

you do based on your experience.

Table 3-2: Actions at Link Quality Levels

LQ

Reading

9 Excellent Link

LInk Quality

Description

Recommended Action

None required.

Quality

8 Very Good Link

Quality

Most transmissions are made
with LQ of about 7.

7Standard Link

Quality

6Average Link

Begin to take action.

Quality

Blinking LQ If the LQ reading is blinking on the screen, this
indicates that the LQ has dropped to 4 or below, sometime within
the last 2 minutes. The blinking will automatically stop when 2
minutes have elapsed with an LQ maintained above 4.

Demodulator-Only Systems The RCL measurement is
performed by the RF circuitry in the RXU. This means if you are
using a demodulator-only system (which will have only an RCU),
your Link Quality readings will not be as accurate, since there
will be no RCL data. In these conditions, the LQ will typically
read 1 - 2 digits above normal.

3.4.5 LQ Action Levels

Table 3-2 describes the actions we recommend at various LQ
levels. These are a good initial guide; you should adjust what

5 Below Average

Link Quality

Rapidly take additional
actions.

4 Poor Link Quality Immediately take all available

1 - 3 Unsatisfactory

actions.

Link Quality

0 No signal

detected.

3.4.6 What Actions to Take

To improve the Link Quality, we suggest the following general
sequence of actions. You should develop your own action plan
so you’re prepared in case LQ begins to fall.

1. Optimize RCL.

- No signal: Check channel and frequency - be sure
they match the transmitted signal.

Routine Operation 3-14Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

- If RCL is -70 dBm or lower, the signal is weak.
Reposition transmit and receive antennas, or increase
transmit power if possible.

- An RCL of -40 to -30 dBm is ideal.

Table 3-3: Setting Changes to Improve Link Quality

Link Capability

- RCL should be less than -25 dBm. Signals stronger
than this can overload the RX and actually make the
demodulated signal quality worse.

2. Optimize SNR

- If RCL is OK, but SNR is low (13 -15 dB or less), there
may be electrical equipment (or other transmitters) in
the immediate area creating noise.

- Try other channels and offsets to avoid other
transmitters.

- Isolate noise sources by shutting down other
equipment.

3. Optimize BER

- No signal: Check the COFDM BW setting to be sure it
matches the incoming signal.

- Change transmit settings to make the link more
robust. You will achieve a lower Data Transfer Rate as
you do so. See Table 3-3.

Note - Factory default settings are highlighted in
green.

Least

Robust

Modulation 64 QAM 16QAM QPSK

FEC 7/8 5/6 3/4 2/3

GI 1/32 1/16

BW

8 MHz 7 MHz 6 MHz

1/8 1/4

Most

Robust

1/2

Note - receiver BW must be manually set to match transmitter.

Highest Lowest

Data Transfer Rate

Factory Default Settings are highlighted in greeen.

- The receiver will automatically adjust for the new
settings.

Note - BW must be manually set to match the
transmitter.

Routine Operation 3-15Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.4.7 Monitoring Bit Error Ratio (BER)

One useful indicator of digital signal quality is the Bit Error Ratio
(BER). The BER is calculated as:

Monitoring the BER screen will help you be aware of this signal
degradation so you can take corrective action.

To access the BER Monitor Screen, follow these steps:

Error Bits Detected / Total bits received

The Strata RX reports two BER values:

•BER before Forward Error Correction (FEC), also called
“Pre-Viterbi BER”.

•BER after Forward Error Correction (FEC), also called
“Post-Viterbi BER”.

These would appear on the BER Monitor Screen as

PRE 2.0E-7
POST 0.0E-7

Using BER BER is one of the key components in Vislink’s Link
Quality indicator. It also can be used on its own to help alert the

operator to deteriorating signal quality.

As signal quality degrades, the Pre-Viterbi BER will increase.
However, the FEC algorithms will be able to correct these errors,
and the Post-Viterbi BER will be maintained at 0. Video and
audio will be undisturbed.

As the signal continues to degrade, the Pre-Viterbi BER will
increase as well. At some point the FEC algorithms will reach
the limit of errors they can correct. The uncorrected errors will
then appear in the Post-Viterbi BER. These Post-Viterbi errors
are a warning sign, even though the video may still be
acceptable.

Be sure Strata is connected and powered.
See “Setting Up” and “Turning the power
ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm LQ7

Turn the Control Switch RIGHT until the

To lock this screen on the display, also do the following:

To allow the screen to default normally to the Main
Screen, do the following:

display shows the BER Monitor Screen. It
will be similar to this:

PRE 2.0E-7
POST 0.0E-7

Note - The BER will update more slowly
with low BER readings, faster with high
BER readings.

Push the Control Switch to lock the display
on this screen. Data on display will
continue to update.

Push the Control Switch to unlock the
display.

If the Post-Viterbi BER becomes too large, the MPEG decoder
will be unable to make sense of the data, and video will be lost.

Routine Operation 3-16Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Display changes back to Main Screen.

3.4.8 Monitoring Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

Another useful indicator of digital signal quality is the Signal-to­Noise Ratio (SNR). SNR is a ratio expressed in dB, and
calculated as:

To lock this screen on the display, also do the
following:

Push the Control Switch to lock the
display on this screen. Data on
display will continue to update.

Overall Signal Strength / Detected Noise

The SNR Monitor screen provides two pieces of information:

• The current SNR reading

• The current IF filter setting.

To access the SNR Monitor Screen, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

To allow the screen to default normally to the Main
Screen, do the following:

Push the Control Switch to unlock the
display.

Display changes back to Main
Screen.

Turn the Control Switch RIGHT until
the display shows the SNR Monitor
Screen. It will be similar to this:

SNR 20.78 dB
IF Filter Dig

Routine Operation 3-17Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5 Changing Settings

3.5.1 Selecting a Preset

This section describes how to configure your Strata RX with
different settings, using the front panel Control Switch.

For a summary of what settings can be made with the front panel
Control Switch and which are made using the Configurator
software, see Section 3.7 on page 3-30.

Here are the tasks described:

Topic Page

Selecting a Preset 3-18

Selecting a Channel 3-20

Selecting a Band 3-21

Selecting the IF Filter 3-22

Setting the Monitor Output 3-23

Setting the Squelch Level 3-24

Setting the COFDM
Bandwidth

Controlling DC Power on
Coax

3-25

3-26

The Strata RX is designed to enable you to control operating
settings (through Presets) independently of your selection of
Channel and Frequency.

Presets The Strata RX can be preconfigured with up to 9
Presets. Each Preset contains most of the operating settings
needed to control the RX System, including:

• digital or analog demodulation

• digital or analog video and audio outputs

Presets must be preconfigured using the Strata RX Configurator
software. Once defined, the details of a Preset cannot be
changed from the RX front panel.

For information on configuring Presets, see the “Configurator
Reference” chapter of the Strata RX Technical Reference

Manual.

Channels and Frequencies In a standard RX System,

Channels and Frequencies are controlled separately from
Presets.

However, if desired the Presets can also be used to specify the
receive frequency. This “Frequencies-Locked-to-Presets” option
is factory enabled, and must be specified when you order your
radio. The assignment of Frequencies to Presets is made using
the RX Configurator, and cannot be changed from the RX front
panel.

For more information on this option and how to use it, see the
“Configurator Reference” chapter of the Strata RX Technical

Reference Manual.

Presets and Channels

• When you change a Preset, the last Channel chosen
stays in effect.

Routine Operation 3-18Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

• When you change the Channel, the last Preset chosen
stays in effect.

To select a Preset to use, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Current
Preset

Chng Preset.

Push the Control Switch to select

Chng Preset. The current

Preset setting begins to blink

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
desired Preset is displayed.

Push the Control Switch to select that
Preset.

Display changes back to the Main
Screen. Newly selected Preset should
appear.

Preset

-41.7 dBm

New
Preset

Routine Operation 3-19Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.2 Selecting a Channel

For each band installed, the Strata RX can be preconfigured for
operation on any of up to 14 Channels, with (+), (++), and (-)
offsets (depending on band).

The Frequencies assigned to each Channel must be configured
using the Strata RX configurator software. Once defined, the
Frequencies cannot be changed from the front panel.

For information on configuring Channels, see the “Configurator
Reference” chapter of the Strata RX Technical Reference

Manual.

Channels and Presets The selection of Channel is

independent of the Preset chosen:

• When you change a Preset, the last Channel chosen
stays in effect.

• When you change the Channel, the last Preset chosen
stays in effect.

To select which Channel to use, follow these steps:

Push the Control Switch to select

Set Channel.The current

channel setting begins to blink.

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
desired Channel and Offset are
displayed.

Push the Control Switch to select that
Channel and Offset.

Display changes back to the Main
Screen.

To check that the channel has changed correctly, follow these
steps:

Turn the Control Switch RIGHT until
the RF Monitor Screen is displayed.
The display should indicated the
newly-selected Channel.

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Set Channel.

2GHz C2

2016.500MHz

Frequencies Locked to Presets If your RX has the
“Frequencies Locked to Presets” option enabled, the Frequency
that is locked to a given Preset may or may not be the same as
one of the Channel Frequencies. If it is not, the RX will display
Not On Channel when you reach the Set Channel
Command Screen.

Routine Operation 3-20Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.3 Selecting a Band

The Strata RX can be equipped to operate on two different
bands, designated as “High Band” and “Low Band”. The
assignment of “High Band” and “Low Band” to RF hardware
installed in the RX is performed at the factory, as part of the
manufacturing process. This assignment cannot be changed in
the field.

Consult your Sales Representative for the latest Band switching
availability.

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Set RF Band.

Push the Control Switch to select

Set RF Band.

The display will also indicate
High or LOW.

Push the Control Switch to change
the Band setting.

If your RX System is equipped for Band Switching, the following
section describes how it works.

Channel Plan and Frequencies When you select a Band, the
RX recalls from memory the Channel Plan for that Band,
including all assignments of Frequencies to Channels and
Offsets.

This means that if, for example, your RX is set to Channel 1 on
the 2 GHz Band, and the Band is changed to 7 GHz, the RX will
now be set to Channel 1 ‘as defined in the 7GHz Channel Plan.

To select which Band to use, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Note

Note: This step will only work if your
Strata RX is equipped for Band
Switching.

Display indicates the new setting,
then changes back to the Main
Screen after the default delay.

If your RX System contains only an RCU, the front
panel menus will still show the Set RF Band
choice. However that choice will not operate and
should be ignored.

Routine Operation 3-21Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.4 Selecting the IF Filter

The Strata RX provides two switchable IF Filters, one optimized
for analog operation and one for digital. These switchable filters
are located with the RF/IF circuitry in the RXU.

Note

To select the IF Filter setting, follow these steps:

Be sure to use the correct filter - use the Digital
filter during digital operation and the Analog setting
for analog operation.

If the filter setting is incorrect the system
performance will be degraded.

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Note

Display indicates the new setting,
then changes back to the Main
Screen after the default delay.

If your RX System contains only an RCU, the front
panel menus will still show the Set IF Filter
choice. However that choice will not operate and
should be ignored.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Set IF Filter.

The display will also indicate
Ana or Dig.

Push the Control Switch to change
the Filter setting.

Routine Operation 3-22Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.5 Setting the Monitor Output

If your RXU or RCU includes a COFDM demodulator, the
System allows you to select the output that appears at the
“MON.” (Monitor) connector. This output can be either:

• the 70 MHz IF input to the COFDM demodulator

• the ASI output of the COFDM demodulator

If your RXU or RCU does NOT contain a COFDM demodulator,
or if your RX is operating in Analog mode, the Monitor connector
will always provide the 70 MHz IF.

If your RX System contains both an RXU and an RCU with
COFDM, the Monitor connectors on the two units provide the
following:

•RXU

- Monitor always provides 70 MHz IF

• RCU

- Monitor is switchable between 70 MHz IF and ASI

Note

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Set Monitor.

The display will also indicate
70MHz or ASI.

Push the Control Switch to change
the Monitor setting.

Display indicates the new setting,
then changes back to the Main
Screen after the default delay.

If your RX System contains only an analog
demodulator, the front panel menus will still show
the Set Monitor choice. However that choice will
not operate and should be ignored.

To select the Monitor output, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Routine Operation 3-23Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.6 Setting the Squelch Level

The Squelch Level sets the weakest signal the radio will attempt
to process. If the signal is weaker than this Squelch Level, the
radio will effectively ignore it and not provide any output at all.

Squelch only operates in Analog mode, or when the output of the
radio is set to provide an IF signal to external equipment
(External IF mode).

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
desired Squelch level is displayed.

The choices are:

• No Squelch

• Force Squelch

• -65, -66, -67,... -94,

-95 dBm

To set the Squelch level, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Squelch Adj.

Push the Control Switch to select

Squelch Adj. The current

Squelch setting begins to blink.

Push the Control Switch to select that
Squelch level.

Display changes back to the Main
Screen.

Routine Operation 3-24Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.7 Setting the COFDM Bandwidth

The COFDM Bandwidth must be set to match the bandwidth
used by the transmitted signal. The RX will not automatically
set this parameter.

COFDM Bandwidth only operates when the RX is operating in
Digital mode.

To set the COFDM Bandwidth, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and
powered. See “Setting Up” and
“Turning the power ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

Set OFDM BW.

Push the Control Switch to select that
Bandwidth.

Display indicates the new setting,
then changes back to the Main
Screen after the default delay.

Push the Control Switch to select

Set OFDM BW. The current

Bandwidth setting begins to blink.

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
desired Bandwidth is displayed.

The choices are:

• 6 MHz

• 7 MHz

• 8 MHz

Routine Operation 3-25Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.5.8 Controlling DC Power on Coax

In the Strata RX System, DC power is always supplied to the
front panel Power connector on the RCU.

There are then two options for powering the RXU:

• DC power from the same source as the RCU, supplied via
the front panel Power connector on the RXU.

• The System must be configured to have DC on the coax,
using the DC Power Command Screen. See Section 3.5.8
on page 3-26.

DC ON COAX Switch See Section 3.2.6 on page 3-4.

• DC power supplied via the coax cable from the RCU.

When the RXU and RCU are in the same location (“co-located”),
either method will work. However, we suggest powering the RXU
and RCU via their front panel connectors to prevent possible
confusion.

If your application requires the RXU and RCU to be separated,
we recommend powering the RXU via the coaxial cable from the
RCU. This will provide a simpler configuration with fewer cables.

WARNING

Turn off DC Power on the coax before
connecting any test equipment.

Refer to the ”Installation” chapter of the Strata RX Technical

Reference Manual for more details.

Two-step control To prevent inadvertent damage to test

equipment that may be connected to the coaxial cable, there is a
two-step control for the DC Power applied to the coax.

To enable DC Power on the coax, both of the following must be
done:

Command Screen To configure the System for DC on the coax
using the Command Screen, follow these steps:

Be sure Strata is connected and powered.
See “Setting Up” and “Turning the power
ON and OFF”.

Start at the Main Screen.

Preset #3

-43.2 dBm

Turn the Control Switch LEFT until the
display reads

75 Ohm Coax.

The display will also indicate
Power On or Power Off.

Push the Control Switch to change the
Power setting.

Display indicates the new setting, then
changes back to the Main Screen after
the default delay.

• The “DC ON COAX” switch on the front of the RCU must
be set to ON.

AND

Routine Operation 3-26Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

WARNING

Turn off DC Power on the coax before
connecting any test equipment.

3.6 Front Panel Menu Maps

Following are one-page menu maps to help you navigate
through the settings available using the front panel Control
Switch.

For information on settings available when using the Strata RX
Configurator, see the Strata RX Technical Reference Manual.

Routine Operation 3-27Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Figure 3-10: Monitor Screens Menu Map

Monitor Screens

TURN to

select

PUSH to

hold

Digital

Ext IF

Analog

Common

Main
Screen

Preset 3

-43.2 dBm

Ext IF

2GHz C2

2016.500MHz

Ext IF
IF Fil Ana

Audio#1 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Audio#2 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Analog

Analog FM
IF Fil Ana

RF

Audio 1

Audio 2

Input
Signal

Main

Digital

2GHz C2

2016.500MHz LQ7

COQPSK 8MHz
FE1/2 GI1/8

PRE 2.0E-7
POST 0.0E-7

SNR 20.7 dB
IF Fil Dig

RF

Input
Signal

BER

SNR

Screen

Audio#3 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Audio#4 OFF
Freq 4.83MHz

Vid Dev 4MHz
Vid Mute OFF

Audio 3

Audio 4

Video

Preset 3

-43.2 dBm LQ7

COFDM LOCK
TRANS LOCK

Video Out CV
Locked: Yes

Aud A Lock
Analog Mono

COFDM

Video

Audio A

Aud De-emph
1:ON 2:ON

Aud De-emph
3:ON 4:ON

E154 44

Audio
Emphasis 1/2

Audio
Emphasis 3/4

Error Code

Routine Operation 3-28Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Aud B Lock
Analog Mono

ClrBar OFF

No Errors

Audio B

Color
Bar

Error
Code

Figure 3-11: Command Screens Menu Map

Preset

Chng Preset
Preset 3

Preset 1, 2,
3,...9

Command Screens

TURN to

select

PUSH to

activate

Channel

Band

IF Filter

Monitor

Squelch

(Analog /

Ext IF only)

COFDM

(Digital

only)

DC Power

Set Channel
Channel 2

Set RF Band
High Band

Set IF Filtr
IF Fil Ana

Set Monitor
70 MHz Out

Squelch Adj.

-95 dBm

Set OFDM BW
8 MHz

75 Ohm Coax Po wer
OFF

WARNING

Turn off DC
Power on Coax
BEFORE connecting
test equipment

Channel 1, 2,
3,..10 (..14)

Set RF Band
Low Band

Set IF Filtr
IF Fil Dig

Set Monitor
ASI Out

No, Force, -65,

-66,-67..-95 dBm

6, 7, 8 MHz

75 Ohm Coax Po wer
ON

Main
Screen

Preset 3

-43.2dBm

Digital

Ext IF

Analog

Common

LQ7

Routine Operation 3-29Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

3.7 Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings

Table 3-4: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings

The design of the RX System and Configurator makes
commonly available settings accessible from the RX front panel,
and more advanced settings accessible through the
Configurator.

A summary of which settings can be controlled by each method
is in Table 3-4.

Parameter

Presets

Preset in use 1, 2, ... 9

Preset text Any 12

Operation Mode • MPEG CV

IF Filter in use • Analog

Squelch level • No Squelch

Available

Settings

alphanumeric
characters

Out

• ASI Out

• SDI Out

•Ext IF

• FM CV Out

• Digital

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

• -65, -66, ­67,... -94, ­95 dBm

• Force
Squelch

Signal in use for
Monitor jack

•IF

• ASI

Routine Operation 3-30Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 3-4: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Table 3-4: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Parameter

Channels

Channel & Offset in use • 1, 2, 3 ...

Channel & Offset
frequencies

Bands

RF Band in use • High

Frequency segment
assigned to “High” and
“Low”

DC Power

DC On Coax • On

Available

Settings

• +, -, ++

Depends on
band

• Low

Depends on
band

•Off

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

Factory
config
only.

Parameter

MPEG

Gen Lock • Selected

NTSC Pedestal • Selected

Audio Output • Analog

Color Bars • On

BISS (Encryption) • On

Available

Settings

• Not selected

• Not selected

• AES/EBU

•Off

•Off

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

COFDM

COFDM Bandwidth • 6 MHz

•7 MHz

•8 MHz

Routine Operation 3-31Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 3-4: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Parameter

FMR

Video Deviation • 3 MHz

Low Pass Filter • On

Audio Subcarrier
Frequency

Available

Settings

•4 MHz

•Off

• 4830 kHz

• 5200 kHz

• 5800 kHz

• 6200 kHz

• 6800 kHz

• 7020 kHz

• 7500 kHz

• 8065 kHz

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

• 8300 kHz

• 8590 kHz

Audio Channel Enabled • Selected

• Not selected

Deemphasis • Selected

• Not selected

Filtered • Selected

• Not selected

Routine Operation 3-32Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

4

Troubleshooting

4.1 Chapter Overview

4.2 Status LED

Above the Power Switch on both the RCU and RXU is a multi­color status LED. The LED indications are described in
Table 4-1.

This chapter describes how to troubleshoot your Strata RX.

Here are the topics covered:

Topic Page

Status LED 4-1

Messages on Display 4-2

Error Codes 4-4

Operational Problems 4-10

Table 4-1: Status LED Indications

LED

Color

----- Power is not on in that unit. Turn on Power.

Green Power is on and no errors

are detected.

Amber Minor Alarm - Power is on

but some part of the system
reports an abnormal
condition that requires
attention. Condition might
impair performance.

Red Major Alarm - Power is on

but there is a serious failure
or error that will prevent
normal operation. The
internal processors are not
running.

Meaning Suggested Action

None.

Check Monitor Screens
for error messages or
Error Codes.
Troubleshoot using
tables in this chapter.

Turn off unit and
disconnect power.

CAUTION

Troubleshooting 4-1Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

A Major Alarm may also indicate a
potential safety hazard. Shut down the RX
System and disconnect power.

4.3 Messages on Display

One of the ways the RX will alert you to problems is by
messages on its front panel display. These are displayed on the
Monitor Screens.

See Table 4-2 for descriptions of the messages and what to do
when they appear.

Troubleshooting 4-2Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-2: Display Messages

Message Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

NOT ON

CHANNEL

RF NOT FOUND

UNLOCKED

COFDM

UNLOCKED

TRANSPORT

UNLOCKED

VIDEO

UNLOCKED

The frequency on which
the RX is operating does
not match any of the
channel frequencies
defined in the Channel
Plan for that band.

The RCU is not detecting
the RF section of the RXU.

The RX is unable to lock on
the incoming signal.

Check settings of RX using Monitor
Screens and Command Screens.
Specifically check that the correct channel
is selected and that the frequency set for
that channel is correct.

In an RCU-only system, this is normal ­there is no RXU to detect.

In a system with both RXU and RCU:
Check connection between RXU and RCU.

• Check Error Code Monitor Screen for
errors.

• Check settings of RX using Monitor
Screens and Command Screens. Be
sure they match transmitter. Specifically
check channel and frequency, COFDM
Bandwidth.

• Check connection between antenna
and RXU.

• Use Configurator to check settings.
Check the Channel Plan to be sure it is
correct.Be sure all settings match the
transmitter settings.

• If message persists even when
operating on a frequency that matches
the channel plan, unit may have
suffered internal failure. Send unit for
service.

None.
If error persists, RF hardware may have
failed. Send unit for service.

• Use Monitor Radio feature of
Configurator to list errors.

• Use Configurator to check settings. Be
sure all settings match the transmitter
settings.

AUDIO

UNLOCKED

• Check connection between RXU and
RCU.

• Take actions to optimize RCL, SNR,
and BER. See Section 3.4.6 on page 3-

14.

Troubleshooting 4-3Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

4.4 Error Codes

Figure 4-1: Error Code Format

The Strata RX has an extensive library of diagnostic Error Codes
to help you pinpoint any problems.

These Error Codes:

• Are displayed on the front panel display, in the Error Code
Screen.

• Are reported and displayed by the Configurator, using the
“Monitor Radio” function on the Main Page.

• Cause the Status LED to glow amber, alerting you to
investigate the problem.

The Error Codes are formatted into 2 groups of characters, as
described in Figure 4-1.

Primary Error Code

Identifies error condition.
See Section 4.4.1 on page 4-4.

E141 45

Error Status

Depends on
error code.
See Section 4.4.2
on page 4-10.

Unit ID

Identifies unit
reporting error.
See Section 4.4.3
on page 4-10.

4.4.1 Primary Error Code

The first group of characters is the Primary Error Code. In most
cases this portion of the Error Code will uniquely identify the
problem.

See Table 4-3 for descriptions of the error codes and what to do
when they appear.

Troubleshooting 4-4Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

[

Table 4-3: Primary Error Codes

Error Code Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

Status Errors

(Some part of System is reporting an abnormal condition.)

E200 FMR Audio 1 PLL Unlocked • Check to be sure transmitter is

E201 FMR Audio 2 PLL Unlocked

E202 FMR Audio 3 PLL Unlocked

E203 FMR Audio 4 PLL Unlocked

E204 FMR Audio 1 No Sub-Carrier

Detected

E205 FMR Audio 2 No Sub-Carrier

Detected

E206 FMR Audio 3 No Sub-Carrier

Detected

E207 FMR Audio 4 No Sub-Carrier

Detected

operating. If not transmitting, this is
normal - there is no audio signal to
lock onto.

• Check FMR settings using Monitor
Screens and Command Screens.
Settings must match transmitter
settings.

• Call for technical service.

• Check to be sure transmitter is
operating. If not transmitting, this is
normal - there is no subcarrier to
detect.

• Check subcarrier frequencies using
Monitor Screens. Subcarrier
frequencies must match transmitter.

• Call for technical service.

• Use Configurator to check FMR
settings. Be sure all settings match
the transmitter settings.

• Use Configurator to reprogram all the
settings in the radio.

• If problem persists, possible
hardware failure. Send unit for
service.

• Use Monitor Radio function of
Configurator to verify which channel
is not working.

• Check audio configuration using
Configurator, on the MPEG page.
Subcarrier frequencies must match
incoming signal.

• If problem persists, possible
hardware failure. Send unit for
service.

Troubleshooting 4-5Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-3: Primary Error Codes (Continued)

Error Code Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

E120 MPEG Transport Lock Alarm • Check to be sure transmitter is

E121 MPEG Video Lock Alarm

E122 MPEG PCR Lock Alarm

E140 Block Down Converter PLL

Unlocked

E141 Low-Noise Down Converter PLL

Unlocked

E142 IF PLL Unlocked

operating. If not transmitting, this is
normal - there is no signal to lock
onto.

• Check connections between antenna
and RXU.

• Check settings of RX using Monitor
Screens and Command Screens.
Settings must match transmitter
settings.

• Take actions to optimize RCL, SNR,
and BER. See Section 3.4.6 on
page 3-14.

• Call for technical service.

Parameter Errors

(Some internal parameter is outside of allowable limits.)

E150 RXU 2.048 volt reference error • Check for Error Codes related to

E151 RXU 5.5 volt line error

E152 RXU +12 volt line error

E153 RXU -12 volt line error

power - E156-E158 and E159-E15B.
Correct power problem.

• Call for technical service.

• Use Configurator to check settings.
Be sure all settings match the
transmitter settings.

• Use Configurator to reprogram all the
settings in the radio.

• If problem persists, possible
hardware failure. Send unit for
service.

If errors persist with correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

Troubleshooting 4-6Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-3: Primary Error Codes (Continued)

Error Code Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

E154 RXU Receive Signal error • Check to be sure transmitter is

operating. If not transmitting, this is
normal - there is no signal to receive.

• Check connections between antenna
and RXU.

• Check connections between RCU
and RXU.

• Check settings of RX using Monitor
Screens and Command Screens.
Specifically check Channel, Offset,
and Frequency. Settings must match
transmitter settings.

• Take actions to optimize RCL, SNR,
and BER. See Section 3.4.6 on
page 3-14.

• Call for technical service.

E155 RXU Temperature error • Check RX to be sure it is not too

close to sources of heat. Relocate RX
if possible.

• Check to be sure RX has room
around it for air circulation. Move
objects preventing air flow.

If errors persist when tested on service
bench with known good signal source,
unit has suffered internal failure. Send
unit for service.

If errors persist with proper location and
airflow, and correct power connected,
unit has suffered internal failure. Send
unit for service.

• Call for technical service.

Troubleshooting 4-7Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-3: Primary Error Codes (Continued)

Error Code Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

E156 RXU 75 Ohm Coax Current error Note - these errors can only appear in a

E157 RXU 75 Ohm Coax Voltage error

E158 RXU 75 Ohm Coax Power error

E159 RXU Circular Connector Current

error

E15A RXU Circular Connector Voltage

error

E15B RXU Circular Connector Power

error

E1F0 RCU 2.048 volt reference error • Check for Error Codes related to

E1F1 RCU 5.5 volt line error

E1F2 RCU +12 volt line error

E1F3 RCU -12 volt line error

system with RXU + RCU, when powering
the RXU via the coax cable.

• Check connection of coax cable
between RXU and RCU. Be sure
connectors are fully mated and that
cable and connectors are
undamaged.

• Make sure all power cables are
connected properly.

• Call for technical service.

• Make sure all power cables are
connected properly and are not
damaged.

• Call for technical service.

power - E156-E158 and E159-E15B.
Correct power problem.

• Make sure all power cables are
connected properly.

If errors persist with correct coax
connections and correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

If errors persist with correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

If errors persist with correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

• Call for technical service.

Troubleshooting 4-8Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-3: Primary Error Codes (Continued)

Error Code Meaning Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

E1F4 RCU Temperature error • Check RX to be sure it is not too

close to sources of heat. Relocate RX
if possible.

• Check to be sure RX has room
around it for air circulation. Move
objects preventing air flow.

• Call for technical service.

E1F5 RCU 75 Ohm Coax Current error • Check connection of coax cable

E1F6 RCU 75 Ohm Coax Voltage error

E1F7 RCU 75 Ohm Coax Power error

E1F8 RCU Circular Connector Current

error

E1F9 RCU Circular Connector Voltage

error

E1FA RCU Circular Connector Power

error

between RXU and RCU. Be sure
connectors are fully mated and that
cable and connectors are
undamaged.

• Make sure all power cables are
connected properly.

• Call for technical service.

• Make sure all power cables are
connected properly and are not
damaged.

• Call for technical service.

If errors persist with proper location and
airflow, and correct power connected,
unit has suffered internal failure. Send
unit for service.

If errors persist with correct coax
connections and correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

If errors persist with correct power
connected, unit has suffered internal
failure. Send unit for service.

Troubleshooting 4-9Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

4.4.2 Error Status

4.5 Operational Problems

The significance of the Error Status digit depends on what
Primary Error Code is being reported. See Table 4-4.

Table 4-4: Error Status Digit

Status Digit Meaning

Status Error (Error Codes E0F0 - E142)

8 There is an error.

Parameter Error (Error Codes E150 - E1FA)

4 Value is too low.

8 Value is too high.

4.4.3 Unit ID

The Unit ID digit identifies which part of the RX System is
reporting a problem. See Table 4-5.

Table 4-5: Strata Unit ID Digit

The information on the following pages will assist you in
troubleshooting problems that arise in the operation of your
Strata RX System.

Unit ID

1 Transmitter Unit (TXU)

4 Receiver Unit (RXU)

5 Receiver Control Unit (RCU)

Troubleshooting 4-10Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-6: Video Problems

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

Video Problems

No video. Problem with video source

or cabling.

Channel and frequency
settings of RX do not
match settings of
transmitter.

COFDM not locked. Check COFDM Monitor Screen. If

Video configuration
incorrect.

Poor video quality Link Quality low due to

interference or weak
signal.

Video configuration
incorrect.

Check video source and cabling. • Check video source and cabling.

• Use the Color Bar Generator function of RX to
look for problems on the receiving end. Turn
on using Configurator, on the MPEG Page.

Check settings of RX using
Monitor Screens and Command
Screens. Channel, Offset, and
Frequency must match
transmitter.

not locked, check COFDM
Bandwidth (BW) setting. BW
MUST match with incoming signal.

Check video settings using
Monitor Screens and Command
Screens. Settings must match
transmitter settings.

Take actions to boost RCL,
improve SNR, and improve BER.
See Section 3.4.6 on page 3-14.

Check video settings using
Monitor Screens and Command
Screens. Specifically check Video
Deviation. Settings must match
transmitter settings.

Use Configurator to check settings. Be sure all
settings match the transmitter settings.

Use Configurator to check BW settings. Be sure
BW settings match the transmitter settings.

Use Configurator to check video settings. Be sure
all settings match the transmitter settings.

Use Configurator to check video settings. Be sure
all settings match the transmitter settings.

Video signal level too high
at transmitter.

Check video signal - should be 1 V p-p.

Troubleshooting 4-11Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-6: Video Problems (Continued)

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

If Unit Enabled for Optional BISS Encryption/Decryption

No video. BISS Decryption not

operating.

Use Configurator to check BISS settings. Be sure
key and/or ID match the transmitter settings.

Troubleshooting 4-12Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-7: Audio Problems

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

Audio Problems

No audio in one or
more channels.

Problem with audio source
or cabling.

One or more audio
channels turned off.

Audio configuration
incorrect.

Audio subcarrier
frequencies not matched to
transmitter settings.

Channel and frequency
settings of RX do not match
settings of transmitter.

Check audio source and cabling.

Check audio setup using Monitor
Screens. Be sure all channels
you’re using are set to ON.

Check audio setup using Monitor
Screens. Be sure all audio settings
match transmitter.

Check subcarrier frequencies
using Monitor Screens. Subcarrier
frequencies must match
transmitter.

Check settings of RX using
Monitor Screens and Command
Screens. Channel, Offset, and
Frequency must match
transmitter.

• Use Monitor Radio function of Configurator to
identify which channel is not working.

• Check audio configuration using Configurator,
on the MPEG page. Be sure all channels in
use are set to ON.

• Use Monitor Radio function of Configurator to
identify which channel is not working.

• Check audio configuration using Configurator,
on the MPEG page. Settings must match both
incoming signal and wiring of RX audio
connections.

• Use Monitor Radio function of Configurator to
identify which channel is not working.

• Check audio configuration using Configurator,
on the MPEG page. Subcarrier frequencies
must match incoming signal.

Use Configurator to check settings. Be sure all
settings match the transmitter settings.

Troubleshooting 4-13Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-7: Audio Problems (Continued)

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

Audio is distorted or
weak.

DVB-S Audio not being
received.

Linear Audio not being
received.

If Unit Enabled for Optional BISS Encryption/Decryption

No audio in one or
more channels.

Audio configuration
incorrect.

Strata RX does not
currently support DVB-S
audio.

Strata RX does not
currently support Linear
audio.

BISS Decryption not
operating.

Check audio setup using Monitor
Screens. Be sure all settings
match transmitter.

• Use Monitor Radio function of Configurator to
identify which channel is not working.

• Check audio configuration using Configurator,
on the MPEG page. Settings must match both
incoming signal and wiring of RX audio
connections.

Reconfigure link to use other audio format.
Contact Vislink for latest information on
availability.

Reconfigure link to use other audio format.
Contact Vislink for latest information on
availability.

Use Configurator to check BISS settings. Be sure
key and/or ID match the transmitter settings.

Troubleshooting 4-14Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-8: General System Problems

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

General System Problems

Status LED on RXU or
RCU is yellow not
green.

Status LED on RXU or
RCU is red not green.

Changing settings on
one unit doesn’t
change settings on the
other in a connected
RXU+RCU system.

Can’t find Chroma
settings.

Unable to configure or
select Service Name
and Service Number.

RX is indicating a Minor
Alarm.

RX is indicating a Major
Alarm.

RXU and RCU are not
communicating.

RX does not currently
support Service Name
functionality.

• Check all Monitor Screens on
RX display. Look for messages
such as “RF NOT FOUND” or
“UNLOCKED”.
Troubleshoot using
Section 4.3 on page 4-2.

• Check Error Code Screen on
RX display. Troubleshoot using
Section 4.4 on page 4-4.

TURN OFF POWER and call for
service.

• Check connection between
RXU and RCU.

• Turn power off in both RXU
and RCU. Then turn power
back on in both.

None. Chroma is automatically set
to match incoming signal, but
setting does not appear on any
Monitor Screen.

• Error messages: Troubleshoot using
Section 4.3 on page 4-2.

• Error Codes: Troubleshoot using Section 4.4
on page 4-4.

Send unit for service.

If problem persists with correct coax connections,
one or both units have suffered internal failure.
Send units for service.

None. Chroma is automatically set to match
incoming signal, but setting does not appear on
any Configurator Page.

Contact Vislink for latest information on
availability.

Unable to manually
select PIDs.

RX does not currently
support selecting PID
values.

Contact Vislink for latest information on
availability.

Troubleshooting 4-15Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

Table 4-8: General System Problems (Continued)

Problem Possible Cause Suggested Operator Action Suggested Technical Staff Action

PID values reported on
Monitor Page of
Configurator are
incorrect.

RX does not currently
support multi-service
selection. PID values
shown are fixed.

Contact Vislink for latest information on
availability.

Troubleshooting 4-16Strata RX Operator’s Guide/Tech Ref Manual

5

Advanced Operation

5.2 Before You Begin

Before you begin, review the topics below.

5.1 Chapter Overview

This chapter describe how to use the Strata RX Configurator
software to configure settings in the Strata RX. This is
information that would be useful to technical staff.

Settings that are made using the front panel controls are covered
in Chapter 3, “Routine Operation”.

For a summary of what settings can be made with the front panel
Control Switch and which are made using the Configurator, see
Section 5.6 on page 5-18.

Here are the topics covered:

Topic Page

Before You Begin 5-1

RX System 5-1

RX Configurator 5-1

Settings 5-1

System Rules 5-2

Creating a Configuration 5-2

Creating a New Configuration Offline 5-2

Loading a Configuration From a File 5-4

Loading a Configuration From the RX 5-6

5.2.1 RX System

The procedures described in this chapter will assume you
already know how to operate your Strata RX System. If this is not
the case, please review the information presented in the
following Chapters of this manual:

Introduction
Product Description
Routine Operation

5.2.2 RX Configurator

This chapter also assumes the RX Configurator is installed and
working on your PC, and that you are familiar with its Tabs,
Buttons, Pages, etc. If this is not the case, please review the
information presented in the following Chapters of this manual:

Configurator Reference

5.2.3 Settings

Finally, before beginning to create a configuration or program a
configuration into the RX, you must define what settings are to
be part of the configuration. Please refer to the information
presented in the following Chapters of this manual:

Configurator Reference

Saving the Configuration to a File 5-8

Programming the Configuration Into the RX 5-10

Monitoring the Radio 5-13

Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings 5-18

Advanced Operation 5-1Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

5.2.4 System Rules

When configuring your Strata RX System, the following system
rules must be followed.

• An RXU can contain either an analog demodulator (FMR)
or a digital demodulator and decoder (COFDM and
MPEG) - but not both.

modify it.

See Section 5.3.2 on page 5-4.

• Load in an existing configuration from the RX and
modify it.

See Section 5.3.3 on page 5-6.

In the Configurator, if FMR is selected in the RXU, also
selecting COFDM or MPEG will automatically deselect
FMR. The reverse is also true - selecting FMR will
deselect COFDM or MPEG.

• If your configuration will include an RCU, any
demodulators must be installed in the RCU.

In the Configurator, if RCU DCC is selected at the same
time as any of the demodulator choices in the RXU (FMR,
COFDM, or MPEG), the Tab corresponding to those
components will be disabled. That Tab must be re­enabled before settings can be made.

To re-enable the Tab, deselect that component in the RXU
and select it in the RCU.

5.3 Creating a Configuration

There are three ways to create a configuration.

Once the configuration is created, it should be saved to a file on
your PC. See Section 5.3.4 on page 5-8.

Each of these methods is explained in more detail in the
following sections.

5.3.1 Creating a New Configuration Offline

Creating a configuration offline allows you to set up a new
configuration without having to be connected to the RX. Follow
the steps below.

1. Start the RX Configurator.

Double-click the icon on your PC’s Desktop.

2. The Main Page appears (see Figure 5-1).

• Create a new configuration offline (not connected to
the RX).
See Section 5.3.1 on page 5-2.

• Load in an existing configuration from a file and

Advanced Operation 5-2Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-1: Main Page

settings on that Page.

See Figure 5-4 for an example of a configuration
containing both an RXU and an RCU.

See Appendix C for details of the choices on each
page.

3. Click on the system components for which you are

creating a configuration.

- If you have an RXU, be sure to click on the RXU DCC

and RX Front Panel blocks. Also click on any other
blocks you wish to configure.

See Figure 5-2 for an example of an RXU-only
configuration.

- If you have an RCU, be sure to click on the RCU DCC

and RC Front Panel blocks. Also click on any other
blocks you wish to configure.

Note

5. When your configuration is complete, save it to a

You may notice that some of the choices on the
Pages are greyed out and not operating. This is
typically because the Operation Mode setting for
that Preset (on the Radio Page) is set to a mode
that does not use this choice.

For more details see Appendix C.

file.
See ”Saving the Configuration to a File” on page 5-8.

See Figure 5-3 for an example of an RCU-only
configuration.

4. Select each Tab and make your choices for

Advanced Operation 5-3Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-2: Main Page - RXU Only

Figure 5-3: Main Page - RCU Only

Figure 5-4: Main Page - RXU + RCU

5.3.2 Loading a Configuration From a File

Loading a configuration from a file allows you to modify an
existing configuration. You do not have to be connected to the
RX to do this. Follow the steps below.

1. Start the RX Configurator.

Double-click the icon on your PC’s Desktop.

2. The Main Page appears (see Figure 5-5).

Advanced Operation 5-4Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-5: Main Page

3. Click on Load Settings from File (see Figure 5-5).

4. On the Windows file screen, navigate to the file

and select it.

5. Click Open (see Figure 5-6).

Figure 5-6: Loading Settings From a File

6. Select each Tab and make your choices for
settings on that Page.

See Figure 5-4 for an example of a configuration
containing both an RXU and an RCU.

See Appendix C for details of the choices on each
page.

Advanced Operation 5-5Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Note

You may notice that some of the choices on the
Pages are greyed out and not operating. This is
typically because the Operation Mode setting for
that Preset (on the Radio Page) is set to a mode
that does not use this choice.

Double-click the icon on your PC’s Desktop:

4. The Main Page appears (see Figure 5-7).

For more details see Appendix C.

7. When your configuration is complete, save it to a

file.

See ”Saving the Configuration to a File” on page 5-8.

5.3.3 Loading a Configuration From the RX

If the existing configuration programmed into your RX only needs
some changes, you can load that configuration into the
Configurator and modify it.

To load a configuration from the RX, follow the steps below.

1. Connect the RX to power and to your PC.

a. Connect the RXU to the RCU (if present) with

coaxial cable.

b. Connect power through the front panel connector

on the RXU (and RCU).

c. Connect the RS-232 cable to the RS-232

connector on the RXU (or RCU if present).

If you are configuring an RXU and RCU that are
connected, you only need to connect the RS-232
cable to one of them.

Figure 5-7: Main Page - No Radio Connected

5. Click on the Connect to Radio button.

This will establish communication with the Strata RX.
See Figure 5-7.
The Connect to Radio button will change its label to

Disconnect.

6. The Main Page updates to show the hardware
detected.

2. Power up both the RXU and RCU.

3. Start the RX Configurator.

Advanced Operation 5-6Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Note

RCU Only An RCU-only System is shown in Figure 5-8. Note
that the Channel Plan Tab is greyed out, since there was no RXU
detected (and therefore no RF front end).

RXU + RCU A System with both an RXU and RCU is shown in
Figure 5-9. Note the Channel Plan Tab is now active (dark),
since an RXU has been detected.

The settings displayed on the other Configurator
Pages will not have changed.
The settings do not automatically transfer to the
Configurator when a connection is established with
the RX.
You must load the settings from the RX using the

Load Settings from Radio button.

Figure 5-8: Main Page - RCU Connected

Note

If you need to add, remove or replace an RXU or
RCU after the connection to the RX is established,
first click the Disconnect button. Then change the
hardware and click Connect to Radio.

The Configurator does not keep checking the
hardware after the connection is made. Thus it will
not automatically detect the hardware change and
you will not be able to configure the new hardware.

Advanced Operation 5-7Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-9: Main Page - RXU + RCU Connected

7. Click on the Load Settings from Radio button.

The Radio/File Progress Bar appears to indicate the
loading progress. The button label changes to
Loading. See Figure 5-10.

containing both an RXU and an RCU.

See Appendix C for details of the choices on each
page.

The loading of settings from the RX is complete when
the Progress Bar disappears and the button changes
back to Load Settings From Radio.

Note that you will not be able to change the hardware
selected, since it now represents the actual hardware
installed.

Figure 5-10: Loading Settings From RXU + RCU

Note

9. When your configuration is complete, save it to a

You may notice that some of the choices on the
Pages are greyed out and not operating. This is
typically because the Operation Mode setting for
that Preset (on the Radio Page) is set to a mode
that does not use this choice.

For more details see Appendix C.

file.
See ”Saving the Configuration to a File” on page 5-8.

5.3.4 Saving the Configuration to a File

Regardless of how you created your new configuration (offline,
from file, or from an RX), it is always good practice to save the
configuration file to your PC. To save a file, follow the steps
below.

1. Have the desired configuration displayed on­screen.

8. Select each Tab and make your choices for
settings on that Page.

See Figure 5-10 for an example of a configuration

2. Click on Save Settings to File.

The Windows file screen appears. See Figure 5-11.

3. Navigate to the directory where the file will be
saved.

This can be on your PC’s C: drive, or on any drive you
choose. The default directory is “My Documents”.

4. Type the file name in the File Name box.

Advanced Operation 5-8Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Keep in mind that different versions of Windows have
different rules for naming files.

5. Click Save.

Figure 5-11: Saving a Configuration to File

Advanced Operation 5-9Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

5.4 Programming the Configuration Into the RX

Once the new configuration has been created and saved to a
file, you can program it into the RX System. To program a
configuration into an RX System, follow the steps below.

Already Connected? If your RX is already powered, and the
Configurator is already running, skip to step 5.

1. Connect the RX to power and to your PC.

a. Connect the RXU to the RCU with coaxial cable.
b. Connect power through the front panel connectors

on both the RXU and RCU.

c. Connect the RS-232 cable to the RS-232

connector on the RXU (or RCU if present).

If you are configuring an RXU and RCU that are
connected, you only need to connect the RS-232
cable to one of them.

2. Power up both the RXU and RCU.

3. Start the RX Configurator.

Double-click the icon on your PC’s Desktop:

Figure 5-12: Main Page - No Radio Connected

5. Be sure the desired configuration is on-screen.

If necessary, load it in from a file. See Section 5.3.2 on
page 5-4.

6. Click on the Connect to Radio button.

This will establish communication with the Strata RX.
See Figure 5-12.
The Connect to Radio button will change its label to

Disconnect.

7. The Main Page updates to show the hardware
detected.

4. The Main Page appears (see Figure 5-12).

Advanced Operation 5-10Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Note

RCU Only An RCU-only System is shown in Figure 5-13. Note
that the Channel Plan Tab is greyed out, since there was no RXU
detected (and therefore no RF front end).

RXU + RCU A System with both an RXU and RCU is shown in
Figure 5-14. Note the Channel Plan Tab is now active (dark),
since an RXU has been detected.

Figure 5-13: Main Page - RCU Connected

The settings displayed on the other Configurator
Pages will not have changed.
The settings do not automatically transfer to the
Configurator when a connection is established with
the RX.
You must load the settings from the RX using the

Load Settings from Radio button.

Figure 5-14: Main Page - RXU + RCU Connected

Note

If you need to add, remove or replace an RXU or
RCU after the connection to the RX is established,
first click the Disconnect button. Then change the
hardware and click Connect to Radio.

The Configurator does not keep checking the
hardware after the connection is made. Thus it will
not automatically detect the hardware change and
you will not be able to configure the new hardware.

8. Click on the Program Radio button.

The Radio/File Progress Bar appears to indicate the
programming progress. The button label changes to
Programming. See Figure 5-15.

The programming of settings into the RX is complete

Advanced Operation 5-11Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

when the Progress Bar disappears and the button
changes back to Program Radio.

Figure 5-15: Programming Settings Into RXU + RCU

Advanced Operation 5-12Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

5.5 Monitoring the Radio

One of the features of the Strata RX Configurator is that it
enables you to monitor the operation of your RX System, in near­real time, from your PC. In addition, you can save the monitored
information to a log file for review later.

5.5.1 Start Monitoring

To start monitoring the Strata RX, perform the steps below.

Already Connected? If your RX is already powered, and the
Configurator is already running, skip to step 5.

1. Connect the RX to power and to your PC.

a. Connect the RXU to the RCU with coaxial cable.
b. Connect power through the front panel connectors

on both the RXU and RCU.

c. Connect the RS-232 cable to the RS-232

connector on the RXU (or RCU if present).

Figure 5-16: Main Page - No Radio Connected

5. Click on the Connect to Radio button.

This will establish communication with the Strata RX.
See Figure 5-16.
The Connect to Radio button will change its label to
Disconnect.

If you are configuring an RXU and RCU that are
connected, you only need to connect the RS-232
cable to one of them.

2. Power up both the RXU and RCU.

3. Start the RX Configurator.

Double-click the icon on your PC’s Desktop:

4. The Main Page appears (see Figure 5-16).

6. The Main Page updates to show the hardware
detected.

See Figure 5-17.

Advanced Operation 5-13Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-17: Main Page - Monitor Radio

Note

If you need to add, remove or replace an RXU or
RCU after the connection to the RX is established,
first click the Disconnect button. Then change the
hardware and click Connect to Radio.

5.5.2 Viewing the Monitoring Page

The Monitoring Page provides a wealth of information about your
RX System. The Monitoring Page automatically adapts to the
operating mode the RX is using, so that the information
presented is relevant to current operations.

Below are some examples and notes to help you use this
information.

External IF An example of a Monitoring Page when the
Operation Mode is set to External IF is shown in Figure 5-18.

MPEG CV An example of a Monitoring Page when the
Operation Mode is set to MPEG CV is shown in Figure 5-19.

Unlocked If there is a problem with the link and the RX cannot
Lock on the incoming signal, the RX will automatically cycle
through different modulation settings trying to re-establish the
link.

On the Monitoring Page, you will see that the COFDM
information keeps changing over time. This is normal and will
continue until the RX can re-establish lock.

The Configurator does not keep checking the
hardware after the connection is made. Thus it will
not automatically detect the hardware change and
you will not be able to configure the new hardware.

7. Click on Monitor Radio.

See Figure 5-17.

8. The Monitoring Page appears.

The Monitoring Page is in a separate window. The
Monitoring Page window must be closed before you
can return to the Configurator Pages.

Chroma Setting The Strata RX will automatically detect the
Chroma setting of the incoming signal and set up the receiver to
match this setting. However, the Chroma setting does not appear
on the Monitoring Page, or on any other page or menu.

PID Values The Monitoring Page displays PID values for Audio
A, Audio B, and Video when in digital operation. See Figure 5-19.

These values are fixed numbers, because PID functionality is not
yet implemented. Contact Vislink for the latest status on PID
functionality.

Advanced Operation 5-14Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 5-18: Monitoring Page - External IF Mode

Figure 5-19: Monitoring Page - MPEG CV Out Mode

5.5.3 Using the Monitoring Page

The Monitoring Page is used for observing the performance of
the RX System over time. Monitoring allows you to watch key
parameters such as Link Quality and BER when the PC is
remote from the RX and the RX display is not visible.

Monitoring lets you see the results of any changes made by the
front panel controls on the RXU and RCU. You can also monitor
system performance as you optimize other aspects of the signal
path.

There are two functions controlled by buttons on the Monitoring
Page:

• Recall Preset

• Log to FIle

Both of these are explained in more detail in the sections that
follow.

Recall Preset The Recall Preset function allows you to

remotely set the RX System to use another preset. You can then
monitor the System performance, and compare this preset to the
previous one.

To u s e Recall Preset, follow these steps:

1. Display the presets.

On the Monitoring Page, click the drop down arrow to
the right of the Preset Window (next to the Recall

Preset button).

2. Select the Preset.

Click on the desired Preset in the drop down list.

3. Click on Recall Preset.

Advanced Operation 5-15Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

See Figure 5-20.

- The button label becomes gray while the Preset is
being recalled. (The text on the button label does not
change.)

Log to File The Log to File function allows you to save the

results of the monitoring in a text file which you can later print
and review. This logging starts when you click Log to File and
continues until you stop logging.

- The button label becomes dark again when the
operation is complete.

- The information at the top of the page updates to
reflect the new Preset.

- There is no Progress Bar associated with this
operation.

Figure 5-20: Recalling a Preset

To u s e Log to File, follow these steps:

1. On the Monitoring Page, click Log to File.
The button label changes from Log to File to Stop
Logging.

2. When you are done logging, click Stop Logging.

Log File Location The Log File is automatically saved in the
same directory or subdirectory where the Configurator software
is located. Typically this will be under:

C:\Program Files\Strata_RX_Configurator.

Log File Name The Log File is automatically named with the

date and time the logging started. The format is as follows:

LogYYYYMMDD_HHMM.text

where

YYYY = year (e.g., 2004)

MM = month (e.g., 06 = June)

DD = day (e.g., 21)

HH = hours (in 24 hour format, e.g., 2:00 PM = 14)

MM = minutes (e.g., 45)

A log file created on April 27, 2004 at 1:32 PM would be named:

Log20040427_1332.txt

Advanced Operation 5-16Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Reading the Log File The Log File is saved as plain text, and
can be viewed and printed by any word processing software that
accepts plain text (such as Notepad or MS Word).

Log File Output The Log File is formatted as shown in Figure
5-21. A running log is created, with all significant changes listed
along with the time they occurred.

Note that this time is taken from the PC’s internal clock, not a
clock in the RX.

Figure 5-21: Log File Output

Preset
changed
from
“Remote 1”
to

“Base 3”

Channel
changed
from

+2

to

+8

Advanced Operation 5-17Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

5.6 Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings

Table 5-1: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings

The design of the RX System and Configurator makes
commonly available settings accessible from the RX front panel,
and more advanced settings accessible through the
Configurator.

A summary of which settings can be controlled by each method
is in Table 5-1.

Parameter

Presets

Preset in use 1, 2, ... 9

Preset text Any 12

Operation Mode • MPEG CV

IF Filter in use • Analog

Squelch level • No Squelch

Available

Settings

alphanumeric
characters

Out

• ASI Out

• SDI Out

•Ext IF

• FM CV Out

• Digital

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

• -65, -66, ­67,... -94, ­95 dBm

• Force
Squelch

Signal in use for
Monitor jack

•IF

• ASI

Advanced Operation 5-18Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Table 5-1: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Table 5-1: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Parameter

Channels

Channel & Offset in use • 1, 2, 3 ...

Channel & Offset
frequencies

Bands

RF Band in use • High

Frequency segment
assigned to “High” and
“Low”

DC Power

DC On Coax • On

Available

Settings

• +, -, ++

Depends on
band

• Low

Depends on
band

•Off

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

Factory
config
only.

Parameter

MPEG

Gen Lock • Selected

NTSC Pedestal • Selected

Audio Output • Analog

Color Bars • On

BISS (Encryption) • On

Available

Settings

• Not selected

• Not selected

• AES/EBU

•Off

•Off

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

COFDM

COFDM Bandwidth • 6 MHz

•7 MHz

•8 MHz

Advanced Operation 5-19Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Table 5-1: Front Panel vs. Configurator Settings (Continued)

Parameter

FMR

Video Deviation • 3 MHz

Low Pass Filter • On

Audio Subcarrier
Frequency

Available

Settings

•4 MHz

•Off

• 4830 kHz

• 5200 kHz

• 5800 kHz

• 6200 kHz

• 6800 kHz

• 7020 kHz

• 7500 kHz

• 8065 kHz

Set

Using

Control

Switch

Set

Using

Config-

urator

• 8300 kHz

• 8590 kHz

Audio Channel Enabled • Selected

• Not selected

Deemphasis • Selected

• Not selected

Filtered • Selected

• Not selected

Advanced Operation 5-20Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

6

Installation

• Unpack the equipment carefully to avoid accidental
damage.

• Be sure to locate all parts and accessories.

6.1 Chapter Overview

This chapter describes how to unpack and install your Strata RX.
The topics covered in this chapter are listed below.

Topic Page

Unpacking 6-1

Initial Inspection 6-1

Damage in Shipment 6-1

Mounting and Cabling 6-2

Power Connections 6-4

Grounding 6-7

Audio Connections 6-7

Signal Connections 6-12

Data Connections 6-12

Powering Up 6-17

Product Modifications 6-17

• Verify that the items shipped agree with those listed on
the sales order.

• DO NOT discard the container or packing material until
you have inspected the equipment and are sure there is
no shipping damage. The container and packing must be
available in the event that a damage claim needs to be
filed with the shipping carrier.

6.3 Initial Inspection

After the equipment is unpacked, we recommend you inspect it
using the following checklist:

• Check for any dents or scratches. If the equipment is
dented or scratched, it may have suffered internal
damage as well.

• Check that the equipment is clean and dry.

• Check that no cables or connectors are broken, damaged,
or loose.

6.2 Unpacking

Each unit is shipped assembled, wired, and factory tested. Each
unit is packaged in appropriate shipping containers.

Here are some tips to help you with unpacking your new
equipment:

Installation 6-1Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

6.4 Damage in Shipment

Should any damage be discovered after unpacking the unit, use
the following procedure:

• Immediately file a claim with the shipping carrier.

• Forward a copy of the damage report to Vislink
Communications Ltd.Customer Service, at our US

Support Centre.

6.5.1 Floor/Bulkhead Installation

• Contact Vislink Customer Service to determine the
disposition of the equipment.

Vislink Communications Ltd. US Support Centre

Business Hours: Monday

8:00 AM - 5:00PM Eastern Time (US)

(0800 - 1700 hrs US ET)

Tuesday - Friday

8:00 AM - 7:00PM Eastern Time (US)

(0800 - 1900 hrs US ET)

Telephone: [phone]

978-671-5700

Fax: [phone]

When contacting Customer Service, please have the
following information available:

- Sales order number.

- Model number and serial number of the unit.

For mobile applications such as an aircraft or vehicle, the Strata
RX is usually bolted in place, and the cabling is permanently
installed. Power comes from aircraft (or vehicle) power.

Mounting The Strata RX is typically mounted on a bulkhead or
on the floor of a compartment using a Vislink Fixed Mounting
Bracket. The Fixed Mounting bracket accepts both the RXU and
RCU, and provides “ears” at the front to which the RXU and RCU
attach. See Figure 6-1.

The RXU and RCU must have the correct mounting hardware
installed, with mating “ears” and screws to attach to the Bracket.
If your RXU or RCU was originally equipped for use with a
Universal Mounting Bracket, it will not have this hardware.
Consult your Sales Representative or Vislink for the hardware
needed to convert these units to use the Fixed Mounting
Bracket.

Figure 6-1: Fixed Mounting Bracket

6.5 Mounting and Cabling

Each installation or deployment will have its own specific tasks
according to the application and the installed hardware. The
following sections describe two options for mounting and cabling
the Strata RX:

• Floor/Bulkhead Installation

• Tripod Deployment

Installation 6-2Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Cabling Wiring mounted in a moving aircraft or vehicle is
subject to extremes of temperature, humidity, and vibration.
Vislink recommends the following good general practices:

• Secure the cabling at close intervals along its entire
length.

• Protect the cabling with additional sheathing or padding
anywhere it passes through a hole or lays against an
obstruction.

6.5.2 Tripod Deployment

For portable applications, the Strata RX will typically be moved
from place to place and set up each time. Most of the
installation’s mounting and cabling remains in place from one
deployment to the next.

• Provide flex relief at any location where the cable must
change direction sharply, to maintain a smooth bend and
prevent kinking.

• Provide strain relief at each connector to absorb any
pulling forces on the cable and prevent damage to the
connector.

CAUTION

CAUTION

Power supply cords and cables must be
protected. Do not run cords where they can
be walked upon. Protect cables against
pinching and chafing. Pay special attention
to locations where the cables enter or exit
an enclosure or make a sharp bend.

Ensure that the electrical supply is protected
by overcurrent protection devices as
required by the applicable electrical codes.

Mounting the RX will usually be mounted in a Vislink Universal
Mounting Bracket. The Bracket will be attached to a Quick

Release for easy mounting on a Vislink tripod. See Figure 6-2.

For applications using both an RXU and RCU, a Mounting Plate
is also used to provide additional stiffness.

The Universal Mounting Bracket and Mounting Plate are usually
left attached to the RX all the time. The Quick Release is used to
separate the RX from the tripod for easier carrying and transport.

For situations where you are mounting to another type of tripod
that doesn’t directly accept the Quick Release, consult with
Vislink or your tripod manufacturer. Vislink has Wedge Plates
that will convert some types of tripods to accept the Quick
Release.

Cabling The cabling between RXU and RCU is also typically
left in place. The power, antenna and audio/video connections
are usually removed at the end of each deployment.

WARNING

Be sure the power being supplied matches
the power required by the equipment.

Installation 6-3Strata RX Technical Reference Manual

Figure 6-2: Universal Mounting Bracket on Tripod

Figure 6-3: Fixed Mounting Bracket on Tripod

Universal Mounting
Bracket

Mounting Plate
(for RXU + RCU)

Quick Release

Vislink Tripod

Portable Deployment Using Fixed Bracket For situations
where you need to mount an RX and its Fixed Mounting
Bracket to a Vislink Tripod, the Bracket will attach directly to the
Quick Release. See Figure 6-3.

Fixed Mounting
Bracket

Quick Release

Vislink Tripod

6.6 Power Connections

6.6.1 Power Requirements

The Strata RXU and RCU have the following power
requirements.

Supply Voltage: +10.5 to +36 Volts DC

Power Consumption: 36 watts nominal

Certain other voltages can be accommodated by special
request; contact your Sales Representative for the latest details.

6.6.2 Power Supply and Distribution

DC power is supplied externally, from the optional Strata ACU

Installation 6-4Strata RX Technical Reference Manual