Wavetek MS1300, MS1200 Operation Manual

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WavetekWavetek

WavetekWavetek

Wavetek
CATV Division

5808 Churchman Bypass
Indianapolis, IN 46203-6109
[phone]
[phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.wavetek.com

3/96
Manual Part No.
6510-00-0283

This document contains information proprietary to
Wavetek. The information in this document
is not to be used or duplicated in any manner without
the prior approval, in writing, of Wavetek.

OPERATION MANUAL

MODEL MS1300

SCANNING/LOGGING
SIGNAL LEVEL METER

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WARRANTY

Wavetek warrants that all Products manufactured or procured by Wavetek conform to
Wavetek’s published specifications and are free from defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of one (1) year from the date of delivery to the original Buyer, when used under
normal operating conditions and within the service conditions for which they were designed.
This warranty is not transferrable and does not apply to used or demonstration products.

The obligation of Wavetek arising from a Warranty claim shall be limited to repairing, or at
its option, replacing without charge, any assembly or component (except batteries) which in
Wavetek’s sole opinion proves to be defective within the scope of the Warranty. In the event
Wavetek is not able to modify, repair or replace nonconforming defective parts or components
to a condition as warranted within a reasonable time after receipt thereof, Buyers shall receive
credit in the amount of the original invoiced price of the product.

Wavetek must be notified in writing of the defect or nonconformity within the Warranty
period and the affected Product returned to Wavetek’s factory, designated Service Provider,
or Authorized Service Center within thirty (30) days after discovery of such defect or
nonconformity. Buyer shall prepay shipping charges and insurance for Products returned to
Wavetek or its designated Service Provider for warranty service. Wavetek or its designated
Service Provider shall pay costs for return of Products to Buyer.

Wavetek shall have no responsibility for any defect or damage caused by improper storage,
improper installation, unauthorized modification, misuse, neglect, inadequate maintenance,
accident or for any Product which has been repaired or altered by anyone other than Wavetek
or its authorized representative or not in accordance with instructions furnished by Wavetek.

The Warranty described above is Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy and no other warranty,
whether written or oral, expressed or implied by statute or course of dealing shall apply.
Wavetek specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose. No statement, representation, agreement, or understanding, oral or
written, made by an agent, distributor, or employee of Wavetek, which is not contained in the
foregoing Warranty will be binding upon Wavetek, unless made in writing and executed by
an authorized representative of Wavetek. Under no circumstances shall Wavetek be liable for
any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, expenses, or losses,
including loss of profits, based on contract, tort, or any other legal theory.

Extended Warranty Programs

Extended warranties and service contracts are available for new and currently owned
equipment for an additional cost. Contact the Customer Service Department (800 851-

1198) for details pertaining to extended warranties and service contracts.

Return Authorization Procedure

The customer MUST obtain a RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER from the
Customer Service Department (800 851-1198) prior to returning any equipment for
warranty or non-warranty repair. Wavetek accepts no liability for any instrument or
subassembly returned to the factory without this number. Any correspondence regarding

returned instruments or subassemblies should be referenced to that number.

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Contents

Introducing microStealth ................................................................ 7

Introduction................................................................................ 7

Measurement Logging .............................................................. 8

Auto Tests .................................................................................. 8

Multiple Channel Plans ............................................................ 10

Getting Acquinted with the Keypad ....................................... 10

Getting Acquinted with the Screen ......................................... 12

The Navigator............................................................................ 15

Configuring microStealth.......................................................... 16

Global Configuration ................................................................. 17

Measurements Configuration ................................................... 20

Channel Plan Configuration ..................................................... 23

Using microStealth ........................................................................... 31

Introduction................................................................................ 31

Installation.................................................................................. 31

Selecting Channel Packages ............................................. 32

Selecting the Test Point .................................................... 32

Installation Results Summary ........................................... 33

The Channel List ............................................................... 34

The Pass/Fail Indicator ..................................................... 34

Channel Measurement ...................................................... 35

Printing an Installation Report ......................................... 36

Storing Installation Results ............................................... 36

Level........................................................................................... 36

Adjusting the Reference Level ......................................... 37

Tuning by Channel ............................................................ 37

Tuning by Frequency ........................................................ 37

Measurement Hold ............................................................ 38

Printing the Screen ............................................................ 38

Warning Indicators ............................................................. 39

Full Scan..................................................................................... 39

Moving the Marker ............................................................ 40

Adjusting the Reference Level ......................................... 40

Adjusting the Scale ............................................................ 40

Zooming In and Out .......................................................... 41

Checking Limits ................................................................. 41

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Checking Limits on an Individual Channel .................... 42

Measurement Hold ............................................................ 43

Printing the Screen ............................................................ 43

Storing a Scan File ............................................................. 43

Warning Indicators ............................................................. 44

Tilt .............................................................................................. 44

Moving the Marker ............................................................ 45

Selecting the Low and High Carriers ............................... 45

Adjusting the Reference Level ......................................... 45

Adjusting the Scale ............................................................ 45

Measurement Hold ............................................................ 46

Printing the Screen ............................................................ 46

Storing a Tilt File............................................................... 46

Scan ............................................................................................. 46

Moving the Marker ............................................................ 47

Adjusting the Reference Level ......................................... 47

Adjusting the Scale ............................................................ 47

Checking Limits ................................................................. 47

Measurement Hold ............................................................ 48

Printing the Screen ............................................................ 48

Storing a Scan File ............................................................. 49

Auto Test.................................................................................... 49

Configuring an Auto Test .................................................. 49

Performing an Auto Test ................................................... 52

Canceling an Auto Test ..................................................... 53

View ............................................................................................ 53

The File Directory ............................................................. 54

Viewing Installation Files.................................................. 55

Viewing Scan Files ............................................................. 56

Viewing Auto Test Files.................................................... 57

Reference........................................................................................... 61

Using the Reference Section .................................................... 61

Help ............................................................................................ 61

Information................................................................................. 62

Technical Support ..................................................................... 63

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Appendices

Appendix A: Specifications....................................................... 65

Appendix B: Power Management and Battery ....................... 67

Battery Pack Location and Installation ............................ 67

Charging the Battery Pack ................................................ 67

Battery Tips ........................................................................ 67

Appendix C: Interface Port ...................................................... 69

Connector ............................................................................ 69

Cable Specifications ........................................................... 70

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MODEL MS1300

1

Introducing
microSTEALTH

INTRODUCTION

The MS1300 Signal Level Meter is a high performance instrument
designed for cable television technicians. The durable, water
resistant MS1300 makes innovative use of a graphics LCD to
simplify operation. The LCD backlight makes measurements
easier in crawl spaces and behind TVs. The display is easy to see
in bright sunlight.

A scan mode allows you to see the levels of all carriers in a spectral
display. You can also view level measurements at a single fre­quency or for a specific channel. When tuned to a channel, the
display indicates the levels of the video and audio carriers, and the
difference between the carrier levels.

When performing an installation, you can press the Installation
Check key to quickly verify that all channels are within limits that
you have defined. You can use this feature to determine whether
or not a subscriber connection meets FCC or other government
requirements.

A special channel plan building mode automatically determines
which channels are active on your cable system. Once you have
defined a channel plan, you can copy it to any MicroStealth unit
having a built-in serial port. You can also create channel plans
using StealthWare, the Windows™ based data management
package for Stealth products.

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For documentation purposes, you can print any measurement
screen to a serial printer (Wavetek P-Stealth Printer). Following an
installation check, you can print an installation report that can be
filed with the work order. You can also print a report that lists all
configuration settings including the channel plan.

The MS1300 tunes from 45 to 550 MHz with an option to extend
the range to 5 to 890 MHz.

MEASUREMENT LOGGING

With the MS1300, you can store installation checks that you have
performed throughout the day. You can also store scan and tilt
measurements. Each file is time and date stamped and can be
recalled later for viewing on the LCD screen.

When viewing a file, you can adjust the screen settings the same as
when you are viewing a “live” measurement. Using the built-in
serial port, you can print files and even upload them to StealthWare
for further analysis and archiving.

AUTO TESTS

Automated tests are easy with the MS1300 and provide a conve­nient way of acquiring proof-of-performance compliance data.
Tests can be executed immediately or scheduled over a period of
time. To conserve battery life, MicroStealth shuts itself off
between scheduled intervals. When configuring an Auto Test, you
can record information about the location at which the test is being
performed. Files can be created for commonly tested locations so
you need only enter the information once.

Auto Tests results are time, date, and temperature stamped and
can be viewed on the LCD screen. Limits are applied to the
measurement data with out-of-tolerance conditions concisely
indicated. You can print a test report for each interval or a compre­hensive 24 hour report that summarizes data collected from up to
four intervals. Auto Test result files can be uploaded to
StealthWare.

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MULTIPLE CHANNEL PLANS

The MS1300 stores channel plans that you have built and edited.
This is convenient if you use your MicroStealth for more than one
plant. You can quickly select the correct channel plan for the plant
at which you are working.

GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH THE KEYPAD

The keypad consists of the following:

• three Soft keys

• a Power key

• four Mode Selection keys

• an Enter key

• eleven Alphanumeric keys

• a Shift key

1. SOFT KEYS

There are three horizontally oriented soft keys located below the
display. The function of each soft key changes depending on the
particular operation being performed and is represented by an
icon immediately above the key.

2. POWER KEY - ON/OFF

Turns your microStealth on and off.

3. MODE SELECTION KEYS

INSTALLATION MODE

Easily check the channels that you have installed and
verify that they are within limits.

LEVEL MODE

Measure the signal level at a specific channel or fre­quency.

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FULL SCAN MODE

View a spectrum graph of all carrier levels in your channel
plan.

NAVIGATOR

Instantly "travel" to any mode using the NAVIGATOR.

4. ENTER KEY

Press this key to terminate your entry or selection.

5. ALPHANUMERIC KEYS

You use the alphanumeric keys to enter data while operating your
microStealth. Notice that these keys have a numeral and up to
three alphabetic characters labeled on them. You can only access
the characters when alphanumeric entry is allowed. In the alpha­numeric entry mode, you sequence through each character and
the numeral by repeatedly pressing the key. You can also access a
set of special characters that do not appear on the keypad by using
the up and down arrows. Once the desired character is displayed,
move the cursor to the next position using the right arrow. Be sure
to terminate your entry by pressing the key.

6. SHIFT KEY

Some keys perform more than one function. The secondary
function of a key is represented by an icon printed next to it.
Notice that the icons are color coded with the SHIFT key. You
access the secondary function by first pressing the SHIFT key and
then the icon representing the desired function.

7. SECONDARY FUNCTIONS

CONFIGURE MODE

Configure your microStealth for your own specific needs.

AUTO REFERENCE

Let microStealth automatically set the reference level for
you.

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SNAP SHOT

Hold the measurement. The measurement is retained even
if the cable is disconnected from the input.

CLEAR

Clear-out your entry and start over again.

BACKLIGHT ON/OFF

Quickly turn the backlight on when it is too dark to see the
display.

POSITIVE/NEGATIVE

Enter positive and negative values (when allowed).

HELP

View a description of each icon found in the current soft
key menu.

PRINT

Print a measurement screen, installation report, auto test
report, or configuration report to a serial printer.

STORE FILE

Store an Installation, Scan, or Tilt screen for later viewing,
printing or uploading to StealthWare.

GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH THE SCREEN

There are certain elements of the screen that will become familiar
to you as you use your microStealth.

The Title Bar

Notice the title bar at the very top of the screen. It presents the title
and icon for the current mode you are using.

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Title Bar Indicators

You may see indicators appear above the title bar from time to time.
This is what they represent:

This indicator appears in the top right-hand corner of
the screen when you press the SHIFT key. This means

that microStealth interprets the next key that you press
to be a secondary function.

This indicator is displayed to warn you that the battery is
low. When you see this, recharge the battery or change to a

fresh one as soon as possible.

This indicates that the RF synthesizer has become
unlocked. If this condition persists, the unit may need

repair.

The Status Bar

Look for the status bar in the lower portion of the screen. It
displays the current date and time. A bar meter indicates the charge
remaining in your MicroStealth’s battery. When the battery meter
reads low, you should switch to a freshly charged battery soon.

Note

When viewing an Installation or Scan file, the status bar shows the
date and time that the file was stored instead of the current date and
time.

Soft Key Icons

There are three soft keys located immediately below the display.
The function of a soft key is represented by the icon directly above
it.

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Note

If the soft key function is not currently available, the icon appears
"grayed" or "dimmed".

Lists

Lists present several items for viewing and/or selecting. Notice that
the currently chosen item is highlighted. You can scroll through the
list using the up and down arrows.

A list can be either "active" or "inactive". You can tell by looking at
the border. If the border is solid, the list is active and any keys that
you press are directed toward it. If the border is dim, the list is
inactive and is not affected by key presses. Usually you can make a
list become active by pressing the key.

When there are more items in the list than can be displayed at one
time, a scroll bar appears along the right-hand edge of the list. You
can use this to get an idea of where you are. When you have
reached the first or last item, an arrow appears inside the scroll box
pointing to the direction you can go.

The Edit Box

The edit box appears in the lower portion of the screen when it is
necessary to enter values into your microStealth.

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An edit box can be either “active” or “inactive”. You can tell by
looking at the border. If the border is solid, the edit box is active
and any keys that you press are directed toward it. If the border is
dim, the edit box is inactive and is not be affected by key presses.
Usually, you can make the edit box become active by pressing the

key. Be sure to press the again when you have finished

making you entry.

THE NAVIGATOR

You can easily travel to any mode using the NAVIGATOR. To
access the NAVIGATOR, press the key.

An icon appears on the screen for each available mode. Use the up,
down, left, and right arrows to highlight the icon that represents the
mode you want to use. Notice that the name of the mode appears
on the lower portion of the screen beneath the status bar. To get a
description of the highlighted mode, press the SHIFT + key. To
travel to the mode you have highlighted, press any one of the soft
keys or the key.

Tip

You can also use the numeric keys, 1 through 9 to highlight the
desired icon in the NAVIGATOR screen. Each key corresponds to
an icon in the 3 by 3 matrix.

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CONFIGURING microSTEALTH

Before using your microStealth, you may want to configure it for
your specific needs. The CONFIGURE mode allows you to select
global and measurement related preferences and to build and edit a
channel plan that matches your cable plant.

To configure your microStealth, press the SHIFT + keys or
choose the icon from the NAVIGATOR. The following screen
appears:

Configuration settings are divided into three categories; GLOBAL,
MEASUREMENTS, and CHANNEL PLAN. Use the up and
down arrows to highlight the category you want and then press the

key.

Tip

You can also use the left-hand and right-hand soft keys to scroll
through the CONFIGURE categories and then press the middle
soft key to select the highlighted category.

PRINTING A CONFIGURATION REPORT

In most configuration screens, you can print a comprehensive
configuration report by pressing the SHIFT + keys. A bar graph
appears indicating the status of the printout. The report lists all of
the configurable settings including the active channel plan.

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Global Configuration

OPERATOR NAME

You can personalize your microStealth by entering your name here.
Your name will then appear on report printouts.

CONTRAST LEVEL

Adjusts the contrast level of the LCD for optimum viewing.

SHUTOFF TIME-OUT

Sets the amount of inactive time allowed before your microStealth
turns off automatically. This feature is useful for conserving battery
life by preventing the microStealth from being left on accidentally
when it is not in use. You can set the time-out period to 1, 3, or 5
minutes. There is also an "always on" setting that defeats the
automatic shutoff feature if desired.

Note

You can manually turn off your microStealth at any time by pressing
the button.

BACKLIGHT TIME-OUT

Sets the amount of inactive time allowed before the backlight turns
off automatically. The backlight consumes significant power. This
feature conserves battery life by minimizing the amount of time
that the backlight is on. You can set the time-out period to; 5 or 10
seconds. There is an always off setting for when the backlight is not
needed at all. There is also an always on setting that defeats the
backlight time-out feature.

You can manually turn the backlight on or off at any time by
pressing the SHIFT + keys. When manually activated, the
backlight remains on continuously until the unit shuts off.

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Tip

You can tell when the backlight is on even in bright sunlight by
looking for the backlight indicator at the left-hand edge of the Title
Bar. The indicator means that the backlight is currently on and
will turn off automatically. The indicator means that the back­light is on and will remain on continuously. If you see no indicator,
the backlight is off.

TIME

Sets the time for the internal real-time clock. The time is set,
displayed and printed in 24 hour format only (HH:MM:SS).

DATE FORMAT

You can specify the format in which the date is displayed and
printed. Select between the following formats:

MM/DD/YY
DD.MM.YY
YY.MM.DD

DATE

Sets the date for the internal real-time clock. You can specify the
format in which the date is set, displayed and printed (see DATE
FORMAT).

PRINTER

Select the manufacturer of the printer that you will be using. A
printer with a serial interface is required. Set your printer configu­ration as follows:

Baud Rate: same as your microStealth
Date Bits: 8
Stop Bits: 1
Parity: NONE
Flow Control: Xon/Xoff

Important

The baud rate of both your microStealth and your printer must
match (see BAUD RATE).

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Tip

A serial to parallel converter (such as the on manufactured by Black
Box Corp.) can be used for printing to a parallel printer.

LINES/PAGE

For text reports, you can specify the number of lines that will be
printed on each page before a form feed command is sent. Enter 0
if you do not want any form feeds to be sent.

BAUD RATE

This is the baud rate that is used when your microStealth communi­cates with another device through the serial port. Generally, you
will want to use the highest rate supported. Be sure that the baud
rate setting of your microStealth matches that of the device that it is
connected to.

CLONE

You can easily transfer the entire configuration from one
microStealth unit to another. This saves you time when configuring
multiple units. First, connect a cable between the two microStealth
units. Select CLONE only on the unit that you want to copy the

configuration to. Press the soft key to begin the transfer.

Important

Be sure that the baud rate setting of your microStealth matches that
of the device that it is connected to (see BAUD RATE).

DIAGNOSTICS

Performs hardware diagnostics and defaults stored preferences to
factory presets. Press the key to access the diagnostics options.

Factory Default

Sets all stored preferences to factory presets. Press the
key to initiate the default operation.

Important

All stored settings are lost when you perform this operation.

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Test Display

Exercises all pixels on the LCD for test purposes. Re­peated pressing of the key sequences the display
between all pixels "on", all pixels "off", and the display test
screen.

Measurements Configuration

TEMPERATURE UNITS

Selects the units that will be used for the ambient temperature
during Auto tests. You can select between; °C and °F.

SIGNAL LEVEL UNITS

Selects the units that will be used for all signal level measurements.
You can select between; dBmV, dBµV and dBm.

PROBE COMPENSATION

This can be used to compensate for losses associated with probe
points found on certain amplifiers. You can enter a value between

-99.9 and +99.9 dB. Probe compensation is added directly to signal
level measurements. The compensation value is indicated in the
upper left-hand corner of the measurement screens. There is no
indication, however, if the compensation value is zero.

Important
The PROBE COMPENSATION value does not affect INSTAL­LATION or CHANNEL PLAN BUILD mode. Level measurements

made while checking an installation are uncompensated.

FREQUENCY TUNING STEP SIZE

This setting affects the increment/decrement step size when you
are tuning the frequency using the left and right arrows. You can
select a value between 25kHz and 100MHz in steps of 25kHz.

SCAN AUDIO CARRIERS

Select YES if you want to see the audio carriers in the full scan
screen. You can achieve a faster scan by omitting the audio carriers.

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SCAN SCRAMBLED CHANNELS

Scrambled channels require more time to measure. You can achieve
a faster scan by omitting scrambled channels. Select YES if you
want to see scrambled channels in the full scan screen.

EDIT TEST POINTS

Your microStealth is capable of performing tests at various locations
including; SUBSCRIBER DROP, GROUND BLOCK, TAP, and
USER DEFINED (or CUSTOM). Each test point has its own set
of limits that you can edit. Press the key to edit the test points.
A list of available test points appears.

You can enable or disable each test point in the list. When a test
point is disabled, you cannot use it when performing tests. Use the
up or down arrow to highlight the desired test point. If the high-

lighted test point is disabled, you can enable it by pressing the
soft key. A check mark appears in the left-hand column to indicate

when a test point is enabled. If the test point is already enabled,
pressing the soft key disables it.

Tip

You can change the name of the USER DEFINED (CUSTOM)
test point. Notice that the edit box appears when this test point is
highlighted. When you press the key, the edit box becomes
active and you can enter any name up to fifteen characters long. Be
sure to press the key when finished to terminate your entry.

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You can edit the limits for the highlighted test point by pressing the

soft key. The limits appear on the screen.

You can selectively enable or disable each individual limit. When a
limit is disabled, your microStealth excludes it when checking
limits. If the highlighted limit is disabled, you can enable it by

pressing the soft key. A check mark appears in the left-hand
column to indicate when a limit is enabled. If the limit is already

enabled, pressing the soft key disables it.

Note

If you disable all of the limits within a test point, the test point
becomes disabled. You cannot enable a test point that has no
enabled limits.

You can edit the value of the highlighted limit by pressing the
key. When the edit box becomes active, enter the desired value. Be
sure to press the key when finished to terminate your entry.

Press the soft key to return all limits in the test point to their
factory preset values.

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Channel Plan Configuration

SELECT CHANNEL PLAN

Channel plans are stored automatically when they are created. Use
this option to select from a list of available plans.

A small arrow appears in the list to the left of the name of the
currently active plan. To load a different plan, use the up and down

arrows to highlight the desired plan and then press the . Press
the soft key to delete the highlighted plan.

Note

The currently active plan cannot be deleted. To delete this plan,
you must first load a different plan.

Tip

You can rename the plan highlighted in the directory by pressing
the SHIFT + keys. A screen will appear asking you to enter a
new name.

VIDEO SIGNAL TYPE

Your microStealth is capable of measuring signal levels on NTSC or
PAL video signals. You should make sure that the correct video
type is selected.

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CHANNEL SEQUENCE

You can specify whether channels are listed in numeric or fre­quency order. This setting also affects the sequence in which
channels are tuned in the LEVEL screen when using the left and
right arrows.

Note

The SCAN screen always displays channels in order of frequency
regardless of the CHANNEL SEQUENCE setting.

BUILD CHANNEL PLAN

Your microStealth is capable of identifying which channels are on
your cable plant. This allows you to quickly and easily generate a
customized channel plan. Press the key and let microStealth
learn your system.

Important

Ensure that your microStealth is connected to the cable system
before initiating this procedure.

Step 1

You are asked to enter a name for the channel plan. Using
the edit box, you can enter any name up to fifteen charac­ters long. Be sure to terminate your entry with the key.

Press the soft key to continue with the next step.

Step 2

There are several standard channel plans to use as a
foundation for building your plan. Use the up or down
arrows to highlight the one that is appropriate for your

system. Press the soft key to continue with the next
step.

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Step 3

You can tell microStealth what frequency to stop searching
for channels. This will save time when building the plan.
The frequency you enter should be just above the highest
channel on your system. If you are not sure what the
frequency of your highest channel is, just use the default
value that appears in the edit box. If you have entered a
value, be sure to terminate your entry with the key.

Press the soft key to begin building the plan.

Upon pressing the soft key, microStealth begins searching your
system for active channels. A bar graph indicates the percentage of

the channels searched. After the plan has been built, press the
soft key to return to the Channel Plan Configuration screen.

EDIT CHANNEL PLAN

You can edit various parameters for each channel. Press the
key to edit the channels. A list of all the channels in the plan
appears.

A check mark appears in the left-hand column when the channel is
enabled. When you built the channel plan, MicroStealth automati­cally enabled all the channels it found to be active on your system.
You may want to verify that all your channels have been correctly

enabled. Use the soft key to enable/disable the channel
highlighted in the list.

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Important

You must enable a channel in order to perform measurements on it.

There are several parameters that you can specify for each channel.
To do this, highlight the desired channel using the up or down

arrow and press the soft key or the key. The parameters
for that channel appear.

Use the up or down arrow to highlight the desired parameter. Press
the key to edit the selected parameter. After completing your
entry, be sure to press the key again.

Enabled

As mentioned earlier, a channel must be enabled in order
for it to be measured. This is another place where you can
enable or disable the channel.

Type

There are three channel types from which to choose:

TV -the standard video and audio carriers
DUAL -a video carrier with two independent

audio carriers (a European format)

SNGL -a single carrier

Frequency

This is the frequency of the video carrier in MHz.

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Channel Number

The channel number can range from 1 to 999.

Label

You can enter a label up to four characters in length for
each channel. This label appears next to the channel
number on most screens to help you to remember what
programming is on that channel.

Package

You can organize channels into packages. In the edit box,
you can select any package that is enabled (see the section
on CHANNEL PACKAGES). When you are checking an
installation, you can specify which packages the subscriber
has ordered and your microStealth will verify that the
channels are correctly installed.

Scrambled

If the channel is scrambled, select YES here so that accu­rate measurements can be made.

Important

microStealth supports several scrambling formats including
the following:

Horizontal Sync Suppression

Audio Offset (TV and DUAL type only)

This is the offset between the video and audio carriers in
MHz.

Audio Offset 2 (DUAL type only)

This is the offset between the video and second audio
carriers in MHz.

When you are finished editing the channel, press the soft key
to return to the channel list.

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Tip

Notice that the selected channel number is displayed in the upper
right-hand corner of the parameter list. When the list is active, you
can use the left or right arrows to select the previous or next chan­nel in the plan. You can also use the numeric keys to directly enter
a specific channel number.

SELECT TILT CHANNELS

Press the key to specify which carriers to measure on the
TILT screen. A list of all enabled channels in the current plan

appears.

Up to six channels can be selected. To select a channel, use the up
or down arrow to highlight the desired channel in the list, then press

the soft key. A check mark appears in the left-hand column of
the list indicating that this is now a TILT channel. Also, the

channel number appears in one of the six boxes above the list.
Press the a second time to deselect the TILT channel.

Note

The TILT channel numbers are displayed above the list in order of
increasing frequency — not in the order in which they were se­lected.

When you have finished, press the soft key.

29

CHANNEL PACKAGES

Channel packages allow you to organize channels into groups or
tiers. You can specify which channels you have installed for a
subscriber when checking an installation. Your microStealth can
then determine if the channels are installed properly.

Press the key to display a list of channel packages.

These are the packages that will be available to you when you edit
a channel. You will be able to select from one of these packages for
each channel in the plan.

To enable a package, press the soft key. A check mark appears
in the left-hand column to indicate that the package is enabled. If
the package is already enabled, pressing the soft key disables it.
You will be asked to verify your intention to disable the package.

Important

The number in the right-hand column of the package list indicates
how many channels are currently using the package. When you
disable a package, all channels using that package default to NONE
(no package).

To edit the name of a package, use the up or down arrow to high­light the desired package and then press the key. You can then
use the edit box to change the name. Be sure to press the key
when you are finished to terminate the entry.

30

Tip

There is no minimum on the number of channels that a package
can contain. If you want, you can create a package for only one
channel.

COPY REMOTE PLAN

You can easily copy a channel plan from one microStealth unit to
another. This saves you time when configuring multiple units.
First, connect a cable between the two microStealth units. Select
COPY REMOTE PLAN only on the unit that you want to copy the
channel plan to. A list of all available channel plans found on the
remote unit appears. Use the up or down arrow to highlight the

plan that you want to copy. Press the soft key to begin copying
the plan.

Important

Be sure that the baud rate setting of your microStealth matches that
of the device that it is connected to (see BAUD RATE).

31

MODEL MS1300

INTRODUCTION

The best way to learn about microStealth is to use it. Section 2
discusses the individual measurements available with the MS1300.
Each measurement mode discussion includes detailed descriptions
on how to perform the measurement as well as operating controls
and indicators.

INSTALLATION

The INSTALLATION mode allows you to easily check the
channels that you have just installed and verify that they are within
limits. If you have configured channel packages, you can tell your
microStealth which packages the subscriber has ordered and it will
display only those channels.

Press the key to select the INSTALLATION mode or choose
the icon from the NAVIGATOR. Your microStealth will begin

measuring all the enabled channels in the plan. A bar graph
indicates the percentage of channels measured. When microStealth
has finished, you can view the results and verify that all channels
are within limits.

2

Using
microSTEALTH

32

SELECTING CHANNEL PACKAGES

If you have configured channel packages, a list of available pack­ages will appear. From this list, you can select the packages that
the subscriber has ordered. The number to the right of the package
name tells you how many channels are included in each package.
Use the up or down arrows to highlight a package and then press the

soft key to select it. A check mark appears in the left-hand
column of the list indicating that the package is selected. If the
highlighted package is already selected, pressing the soft key
deselects it.

Tip

Select “ALL CHANNELS” if you want to include all the enabled
channels in the plan.

Press the soft key or when you have finished. Now your
microStealth will only evaluate the channels from the packages that

you have selected.

Tip

You can return to this screen at any time to change your package
selection by pressing the soft key.

SELECTING THE TEST POINT

The next thing you should do is tell microStealth at which test
point you are located. This determines which set of limits are used.

Press the soft key to sequence through the available test points.
The test point that you have selected is represented in the upper

portion of the screen by one of the following icons:

Subscriber Drop
Ground Block
Tap
User Defined

33

Note

Be sure that you have enabled all of the test points that you are
interested in using. The soft key is only available if there is
more than one enabled test point. (see EDIT TEST POINTS).

Important

Only the limits that are enabled in the selected test point are
checked (see EDIT TEST POINTS).

INSTALLATION RESULTS SUMMARY

This is the overall limit check summary for all channels in the
packages that you have selected.

To quickly determine the status of the overall limit check, look at
the PASS/FAIL indicator located in the upper portion of the screen.
This indicates FAIL if any channel is not within the required limits.
For each limit, the worst case actual value is displayed along with a
pass/fail status.

Note

Only the limits that are enabled in the selected test point appear on
this screen. If there are no enabled test points, this screen will not
be available. You can however, view the CHANNEL LIST and
CHANNEL MEASUREMENT screens described below.

34

THE CHANNEL LIST

Press the soft key or to sequence to the channel list
screen.

Tip

In addition to using the and keys, you can also use the
left and right arrows to sequence through the results screens.

The channel list provides essential information about each channel.

In the list you will find the channel number in the first column
followed by the label. The level of the video carrier is in the next
column. The package in which the channel is contained is dis­played in the fourth column. Finally, the overall limits pass/fail
result for the channel is found in the last column.

THE PASS/FAIL INDICATOR

Use the PASS/FAIL indicator located directly above the channel
list to quickly determine whether the highlighted channel has
passed the limits check. If the channel failed, you can identify the
reason(s) for the failure by looking at the symbols that appear in this
indicator.

35

Adjacent Channel Failures

lower adjacent channel level
upper adjacent channel level
both upper and lower adjacent channel

levels

Video Level Failures

video level too high

video level too low

DVA Failures

DVA too high
DVA too low

CHANNEL MEASUREMENT

Press the soft key or to sequence to the channel measure­ment screen.

This screen displays video and audio carrier level measurements
along with the DVA for the selected channel. Use the up or down
arrows to select the previous or next channel in the list.

36

PRINTING AN INSTALLATION REPORT

Press the SHIFT + keys to print a comprehensive report of the
installation results. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the
printout. The report lists level measurements for all the channels
that you installed and indicates out-of-limit conditions with an
overall PASS/FAIL conclusion. Space is provided for you to fill in
subscriber information. You can attach the report to your work
order or file it for future reference.

STORING INSTALLATION RESULTS

Press the SHIFT + keys to store the results of the installation
check into a file. A screen will appear asking you to enter a name
for the file. See the section on VIEW mode to find out how to
access files that you have stored.

Tip

The results from the most recent installation check are stored
automatically. If you have selected another mode and wish to
return to viewing the installation results you can do so without
having to repeat the measurement process. Simply press the

SHIFT + keys and the results of the most recent installation
check will appear.

LEVEL

Press the key to select LEVEL mode or choose the icon
from the NAVIGATOR. Here you can measure the signal level of a

specific channel or frequency. The level is indicated both numeri­cally and on an analog meter.

37

ADJUSTING THE REFERENCE LEVEL

You can adjust the reference level setting of the analog bar meter
using the up and down arrows. When you press the SHIFT +
keys, your microStealth automatically sets the optimum reference
level for you.

TUNING BY CHANNEL

When you are tuned to a channel, both the video and audio carriers
of the channel are measured and displayed simultaneously. The
difference between the video and audio carriers (DVA) is also
shown. The channel number, type and label for the channel that
you are currently tuned to appear in the upper right-hand portion of
the screen. You can use the left or right arrows to tune to the
previous or next enabled channel in the plan. You can also use the
numeric entry keys to tune directly to the desired channel. Press

the soft key to tune by frequency.

TUNING BY FREQUENCY

The soft key toggles between frequency and channel tuning.
When you choose frequency tuning, microStealth tunes to the video

carrier frequency of the previously selected channel.

38

Use the left and right arrows to tune your microStealth. The
frequency increments or decrements by the step size that you have
specified in the Measurement configuration (see FREQUENCY
TUNING STEP SIZE). You can also use the numeric entry keys to
tune directly to the frequency desired.

MEASUREMENT HOLD

You can freeze the level measurement at any time by pressing the
SHIFT + keys. The measurement is retained even if the cable
is disconnected from the input port. Notice that the mode icon in
the upper left-hand portion of the screen flashes when the measure­ment is on hold. Press the SHIFT + keys again to release the
hold. The hold is also released when you tune to a different
channel or frequency. The measurement is not retained when
another mode is selected or the microStealth is shut off.

PRINTING THE SCREEN

You can print the entire screen at any time by pressing the SHIFT
+ keys. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the printout.

Tip

If you are using your microStealth at a location where it is not
convenient to connect to a printer (such as on a pole), you can put
the measurement on hold until you are able to access the printer.

39

WARNING INDICATORS

If the current measurement is inaccurate due to an out-of-range
condition or hardware failure, microStealth warns you by dimming
the numeric measurement value and displaying one of the following
warning indicators.

Over-range

The signal level is above the measurement range of the
instrument.

Under-range

The signal level is below the measurement range of the
instrument.

Error

A hardware problem exists. If this condition persists, the
unit may need repair.

FULL SCAN

Press the key to select the FULL SCAN mode or choose the

icon from the NAVIGATOR. A spectral graph of all the

carriers in the channel plan appears.

40

MOVING THE MARKER

A vertical marker appears over the currently selected channel. The
channel number, type and label appear in the upper right-hand
portion of the screen. The frequency and level of the video and
audio carriers for the selected channel can be seen directly beneath
the graph. You can use the left or right arrows to select the previous
or next channel. You can also use the numeric entry keys to tune
directly to the desired channel.

ADJUSTING THE REFERENCE LEVEL

The reference level setting is displayed above the graph. This is
the level at the very top line. You can adjust the reference level
using the up and down arrows. When you press the SHIFT +
keys, your microStealth automatically sets the optimum reference
level for you.

ADJUSTING THE SCALE

The scale setting is displayed above the graph. You can adjust the
scale to provide the best view of the carrier levels by pressing the

soft key. A new set of soft keys appear. Use the and
soft keys to increment and decrement the scale value. Press the

soft key when you have finished.

41

ZOOMING IN AND OUT

To zoom in on or out from the channel selected by the marker,
press the soft key. A new set of soft keys appear. Use the

soft key to zoom in and the soft key zoom out. The magnifica­tion factor is displayed above the graph. Press the soft key

when you have finished.

CHECKING LIMITS

You can verify that the carrier levels are within limits. First, you
need to tell microStealth which test point you are at. This deter­mines which set of limits are used.

Press the soft key to access the limits submenu. A new set of
soft keys appear.

Press the soft key to sequence through the available test points.
The test point that you have selected is represented in the upper

portion of the screen by one of the following icons:

Subscriber Drop
Ground Block
Tap
User Defined

42

Note

Be sure that you have enabled all of the test points that you are
interested in using. The soft key is only available if there is
more than one enabled test point. (see EDIT TEST POINTS).

When you have selected the limits submenu, the marker informa­tion below the graph is replaced by the overall limit check summary
for channels currently being displayed on the graph. For each
limit, the worst case actual value is displayed along with a pass/fail
status. The results are updated upon the completion of each scan.

Important

The limit check results apply only to the channels currently being
displayed on the graph — not the entire channel plan.

Note

Only the limits that are enabled in the selected test point appear on
this screen.

Your microStealth can indicate the minimum and maximum carrier
level limits on the graph. The out-of-limit portions appears as
diagonal “hash” areas. You can toggle the hash lines on and off by

pressing the key.

Note

The limit check results are updated with each scan. They are also
update immediately when you press the or soft keys.

When you are finished viewing the overall limit results, press the

soft key to return to the main menu.

CHECKING LIMITS ON AN INDIVIDUAL CHANNEL

Indicators appear in the marker information area when a channel is
outside the limits of the currently selected test point.

43

Up or down arrows to the left of the video level and DVA numeric
measurement tell you when the limits have been exceeded.

measurement too high
measurement too low

When an adjacent channel error occurs, one of the following
indicators will appear in the lower left-hand area of the marker
information area:

lower adjacent channel level
upper adjacent channel level
both upper and lower adjacent channel levels

MEASUREMENT HOLD

You can freeze the scan measurement at any time by pressing the
SHIFT + keys. The measurement is retained even if the cable
is disconnected from the input port. Notice that the mode icon in
the upper left-hand portion of the screen flashes when the measure­ment is on hold. Press the SHIFT + keys again to release the
hold. The measurement is not retained when another mode is
selected or the microStealth is shut off.

PRINTING THE SCREEN

You can print the entire screen at any time by pressing the SHIFT
+ keys. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the printout.

STORING A SCAN FILE

Press the SHIFT + keys to store the current scan measurement
into a file. A screen will appear asking you to enter a name for the
file. Once stored, you will be able to recall the file at a later time
and view it on the Scan screen. You will be able to adjust the screen
settings the same as when you are viewing a “live” measurement.
See the section on VIEW mode to find out how to access files that
you have stored.

44

WARNING INDICATORS

If the current measurement is inaccurate due to an out-of-range
condition or a hardware failure, MicroStealth warns you by display­ing one of the following warning indicators to the left of the nu­meric level measurement in the marker information area:

Over-range

The signal level is above the measurement range of the
instrument.

Under-range

The signal level is below the measurement range of the
instrument.

Error

A hardware problem exists. If this condition persists, the
unit may need repair.

TILT

TILT mode simplifies the process of balancing an amplifier. TILT
mode can only be accessed by choosing the icon from the

NAVIGATOR. A spectral graph of the TILT carriers appears.

45

Important

You can choose which carriers appear on this screen when you
configure your channel plan (see SELECT TILT CHANNELS).

MOVING THE MARKER

You can view up to six carriers. A vertical marker appears over the
currently selected carrier. The channel number, type and label
appear in the upper right-hand portion of the screen. The fre­quency and level of the selected carrier can be seen directly be­neath the graph. You can use the left or right arrows to select the
previous or next carrier.

SELECTING THE LOW AND HIGH CARRIERS

Notice that the bars representing the low and high pilots are solid
and all others are dim. You can select which carriers are used for
the tilt measurement. To select the low pilot carrier, move the

cursor to the desired carrier and press the soft key. To select
the high pilot carrier, move the cursor to the desired carrier and

press the soft key. The tilt measurement is calculated from
the low and high pilot carriers that you have selected.

ADJUSTING THE REFERENCE LEVEL

The reference level setting is displayed above the graph. This is
the level at the very top line. You can adjust the reference level
using the up and down arrows. When you press the SHIFT +
keys, your microStealth automatically sets the optimum reference
level for you.

ADJUSTING THE SCALE

The scale setting is displayed above the graph. You can adjust the
scale to provide the best view of the carrier levels by pressing the

soft key. A new set of soft keys appears. Use the and

soft keys to increment and decrement the scale value. Press the
soft key when you have finished.

46

MEASUREMENT HOLD

You can freeze the tilt measurement at any time by pressing the
SHIFT + keys. The measurement is retained even if the cable
is disconnected from the input port. Notice that the mode icon in
the upper left-hand portion of the screen flashes when the measure­ment is on hold. Press the SHIFT + keys again to release the
hold. The measurement is not retained when another mode is
selected or the microStealth is shut off.

PRINTING THE SCREEN

You can print the entire screen at any time by pressing the SHIFT
+ keys. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the printout.

STORING A TILT FILE

Press the SHIFT + keys to store the current tilt measurement
into a file. A screen will appear asking you to enter a name for the
file. Once stored, you will be able to recall the file at a later time
and view it on the Tilt screen. You will be able to adjust the screen
settings the same as when you are viewing a “live” measurement.
See the section on VIEW mode to find out how to access files that
you have stored.

SCAN

The MS1300 includes an additional SCAN mode that can display
up to six video carriers. You can access this mode by choosing the

icon from the NAVIGATOR.

47

Note

The channels that appear on this screen are the same ones that you
selected when you configured your tilt channels. (see SELECT
TILT CHANNELS).

MOVING THE MARKER

A vertical marker appears over the currently selected carrier. The
channel number, type and label appear in the upper right-hand
portion of the screen. The frequency and level of the selected
carrier can be seen directly beneath the graph. You can use the left
or right arrows to select the previous or next carrier.

ADJUSTING THE REFERENCE LEVEL

The reference level setting is displayed above the graph. This is
the level at the very top line. You can adjust the reference level
using the up and down arrows. When you press the SHIFT +
keys, your microStealth automatically sets the optimum reference
level for you.

ADJUSTING THE SCALE

The scale setting is displayed above the graph. You can adjust the
scale to provide the best view of the carrier levels by pressing the

soft key. A new set of soft keys appears. Use the and

soft keys to increment and decrement the scale value. Press the
soft key when you have finished.

CHECKING LIMITS

You can verify that the carrier levels are within limits. First, you
need to tell microStealth which test point you are at. This deter-

mines which set of limits are used. Press the soft key to
sequence through the available test points. The test point that you

have selected is represented in the upper portion of the screen by
one of the following icons:

Subscriber Drop
Ground Block
Tap
User Defined

48

Note

Be sure that you have enabled all of the test points that you are
interested in using. The soft key is only available if there is
more than one enabled test point. (see EDIT TEST POINTS).

When you have selected the proper test point, microStealth shows
the minimum and maximum carrier level limits for that test point
on the graph. The out-of-limit portions appears as diagonal “hash”

areas. You can toggle the hash lines on and off by pressing the
key.

You can quickly check to see if all SCAN carriers are within limits
by looking at the PASS/FAIL indicator above the graph.

MEASUREMENT HOLD

You can freeze the scan measurement at any time by pressing the
SHIFT + keys. The measurement is retained even if the cable
is disconnected from the input port. Notice that the mode icon in
the upper left-hand portion of the screen flashes when the measure­ment is on hold. Press the SHIFT + keys again to release the
hold. The measurement is not retained when another mode is
selected or the microStealth is shut off.

PRINTING THE SCREEN

You can print the entire screen at any time by pressing the SHIFT
+ keys. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the printout.

49

STORING A SCAN FILE

Press the SHIFT + keys to store the current scan measurement
into a file. A screen will appear asking you to enter a name for the
file. Once stored, you will be able to recall the file at a later time
and view it on the Scan screen. You will be able to adjust the screen
settings the same as when you are viewing a “live” measurement.
See the section on VIEW mode to find out how to access files that
you have stored.

AUTO TEST

Your MicroStealth is capable of performing unattended, automated
level measurement sequences. The sequences can be programmed
to repeat over a period of time. Measurement data is stored into a
file that can be viewed, printed or uploaded to StealthWare. See the
section on VIEW mode to find out how to access files from Auto
Tests that you have performed.

Important

When performing an Auto Test, only the channels enabled in the
currently selected channel plan are measured.

CONFIGURING AN AUTO TEST

Choose the icon from the NAVIGATOR to configure an
automated test sequence. Your MicroStealth will guide you step by

step.

Choose Location

If desired, you can log information about the location at
which you are performing the test. The information will be
stored in the Auto Test file along with the measurement
data. It will be available when viewing and printing the
Auto Test results. This first screen presents you with a list
of available locations. To create a new location, press the

soft key. Press to delete the location highlighted

in the list. Press to select the highlighted location and
continue to the next step.

50

Tip

If you are not interested in logging the information, select
NONE from the list. Your MicroStealth will present you
with only the steps required to configure the test.

Tip

You can rename the location highlighted in the directory by
pressing the SHIFT + keys. A screen will appear asking
you to enter a new name.

New/Edit Location

This screen is where you enter the information for a new or
existing location. Use the up and down arrows to select the
item to be edited. The items that appear in the list depend
on the type of location you have selected. If you regularly
perform tests at this location, you can save it for future use
so that you only need to enter the information once. To do

this, press the soft key and enter a name for the
location. When you are done editing, press to continue

configuring the Auto Test.

Note

Your MicroStealth will remind you when you have not
stored the location. You should only do this, however, if
you think you will return for another test.

Choose Probe Point

Some location types have multiple points at which you can
make test measurements. If you have selected such a type,
this screen will appear. Use the up and down arrows to
choose the appropriate probe point from the list and then

press the soft key.

Measure Voltage

You can log voltage measurements that you make using
your multimeter. These will appear when viewing or
printing the results of the Auto Test. When you have

finished entering the measurements, press the soft key.

51

Compensation

Compensation is added directly to the signal level measure­ments. You can use this to compensate for losses associated
with probe points found on certain amplifiers. The default
is the Probe Compensation value specified in Configure.

Enter a different value if necessary. Press the soft key
to continue.

Results File Name

Enter the name you want to use for the results file that is
created. Your MicroStealth will let you know if there is
already a results file with the name that you enter. If
desired, you can overwrite an existing file of the same

name. When you are ready for the next step, press the
soft key.

Type of Test

Tests can be executed immediately or scheduled over a
period of time. Use the up and down arrows to select the

type of test you want and then press the soft key.

Set Schedule

This screen will appear only if you have selected a sched­uled test. The default schedule will perform four intervals
over a twenty-four hour period beginning at the present
time and date. If you require a different schedule, use the
up and down arrows to edit the schedule and then press the

soft key.

Temperature

The ambient temperature at which the test is performed is
recorded. Your MicroStealth contains an internal tempera­ture sensor for this purpose. If you prefer to use your own
thermometer, you can manually enter the temperature
here.

52

Important

For scheduled tests, the manual temperature entry is used
for the first interval only. Subsequent intervals will record
the temperature as measured by the internal sensor. For
accurate measurements, MicroStealth reads the internal
temperature sensor immediately upon power-up.

When you are ready to begin the test, press the soft
key.

PERFORMING AN AUTO TEST

The following screen appears when MicroStealth is performing
Auto Test measurements:

The number, type and carrier frequency of the channel currently
being measured is displayed. The bar graph indicates the percent­age of channels measured.

If you are performing a scheduled test, the time remaining until the
next interval will appear upon completion of the measurements.

53

Important

To conserve battery life, your MicroStealth will automatically shut
itself off between scheduled intervals.

When the auto test is complete, MicroStealth will display a list of
Auto Test files that are available for viewing and printing.

Note

See the section on VIEW mode to find out how to access files from
Auto Tests that you have performed.

CANCELING AN AUTO TEST

While performing an Auto Test, you will not be able to select other
modes without first canceling the test in progress. Doing this will
result in an incomplete test — you will not be able to resume the
previously configured test.

Press the soft key to cancel the Auto Test. MicroStealth will
display a warning message and ask you to confirm your request.

VIEW

To access measurement files that you have stored in your
MicroStealth, choose the icon from the NAVIGATOR. Files

are categorized into Installations, Scans (including Tilt measure­ments), and Auto Tests.

54

Use the up and down arrows to select the type of file that you want
to view from the main menu and then press the key.

THE FILE DIRECTORY

Upon selecting the file category from the VIEW main menu, you
are presented with a directory of existing files. For example, below
is the directory of Scan files:

To view a file, use the up and down arrows to highlight the name of
the file that you want to view and then press either the soft

key or the key.

55

To delete the highlighted file, press the soft key. You can
delete more than one file at a time by selecting multiple files using

the soft key. Each press of this soft key alternately selects and
deselects the file that you have highlighted. An indicator appears in

the left-hand column to show that you have selected the file. Select
all the files that you want to delete before pressing the soft

key.

Tip

You can print Installation and Auto Test files from the directory.
To print an Installation or Auto Test file, use the up and down
arrows to highlight the name of the file that you want to print and
then press SHIFT + . If a scheduled type Auto Test is high­lighted, all intervals contained in the file will be printed. You must
view Scan files in order to print them.

Tip

You can rename the file highlighted in the directory by pressing the
SHIFT + keys. A screen will appear asking you to enter a new
name.

VIEWING INSTALLATION FILES

You view Installation files using the Installation results screens
described earlier in this manual. When viewing a file, you can print
a comprehensive report of the installation results by pressing the
SHIFT + keys.

Note

When viewing an Installation file, the date and time that the file
was stored appears in the status bar and the file name appears at the
top of the screen above the title bar.

Tip

You can resave an Installation file by pressing the SHIFT + keys.
This allows you to change the name of the file.

56

VIEWING SCAN FILES

There are three types of scans that you can store and view — full
scans, six-channel scans and tilt measurements. The type of scan
depends on which screen you are in when you store the file. Once
the scan is stored, you cannot change its type.

Tip

You can tell what type of scan you have selected in the directory
without having to view it. Just look at the icon in the upper right­hand portion of the screen directly below the title bar:

FULL SCAN

SIX-CHANNEL SCAN
TILT MEASUREMENT

You view Scan files using the same screen in which the file was
stored. For example, the following screen is used to view full scan
files:

Important

When viewing a Scan file, you can adjust the screen settings the
same as when you are viewing a “live” measurement. These
settings are described earlier in this manual.

57

Note

You can print the entire screen at any time by pressing the SHIFT
+ keys. A bar graph appears indicating the status of the printout.

Note

When viewing a Scan file, the date and time that the file was stored
appears in the status bar and the file name appears at the top of the
screen above the title bar.

Tip

You can resave a Scan file by pressing the SHIFT + keys. This
allows you to change the name of the file and/or save any changes
you have made to the screen settings.

VIEWING AUTO TEST FILES

Upon selecting the desired Auto Test file, you are presented with a
list of intervals that are contained within the file. The list includes
the interval number, date, time and temperature when the interval
was recorded.

Note

Immediate type Auto Tests consist of only a single interval.

Press the soft key to view information about the Auto Test file.
This displays the information that was logged when you configured

the test. The items presented depend upon the location type that
you selected.

58

Note

To print a 24-hour format report, use the up and down arrows to
highlight the first interval that you want included in the report and
then press SHIFT + . The report will include the highlighted
interval plus the following three for a total of (up to) four intervals.

To view the measurement data from an interval, use the up and
down arrows to highlight the desired interval then press either the

soft key or the key. There are three screens in which the

data is presented:

The first screen that will appear is a tabular list that includes the
video and audio carrier levels along with the delta V/A for each
channel. Use the up and down arrows to scroll through the list.

59

Indicators appear within the list to flag out-of-limit conditions. The
following table relates each indicator with its meaning:

* adjacent channel limit violation

↑ over limit violation
↓ under limit violation

> over range measurement error
< under range measurement error
E unlocked measurement error

To view the data for the channel highlighted in the list press the

soft key or the key. Use the PASS/FAIL indicator to

quickly determine whether the channel has passed the limits check.
If the channel failed, you can identify the reason(s) for the failure
by looking at the symbols that appear in this indicator.

Press the soft key or the key again to scroll to the limit
check summary. To quickly determine the status of the overall

limit check, look at the PASS/FAIL indicator located in the upper
portion of the screen. This indicates FAIL if any channel is not
within the required limits. For each limit, the worst case value is
displayed along with a pass/fail status.

Press the soft key to sequence through the available test points.
The test point that you have selected is represented in the upper

portion of the screen by one of the following icons:

Subscriber Drop
Ground Block
Tap
User Defined

Note

Be sure that you have enabled all of the test points that you are
interested in using. The soft key is only available if there is
more than one enabled test point. (see EDIT TEST POINTS).

60

Only the limits that are enabled in the selected test point will be
checked.

Note

When viewing the data from an interval, you can print a compre­hensive report by pressing SHIFT + .

61

MODEL MS1300

USING THE REFERENCE SECTION

This section provides additional information concerning the use of
the MS1300. Items to be discussed include; Help, Information, and
Technical Support.

HELP

The HELP mode provides on-line user assistance by means of
context-sensitive help screens. During normal operations, soft key
icons appear at the bottom of the display. Each help screen de­scribes the condition of the soft key icons at the time HELP was
pressed.

Press the SHIFT + key to select the HELP mode.

3

Reference

62

Next to the icon is a brief description of the function that the soft
key performs. If an icon is currently inactive "feature not available"
is displayed.

INFORMATION

Choose the icon from the NAVIGATOR. Here you can view
information concerning your MS1300. The type of information

includes; model, frequency range, serial #, firmware version,
calibration date, and channel plan.

63

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

We've worked hard to make the MS1300 as easy-to-use as possible.
However, if you have a problem using your unit you can contact
Wavetek's Technical Support for help. You can reach Wavetek's
Technical Support, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5 pm
at [phone]. Wavetek also maintains a support forum on the
Internet. You can leave messages and a Technical Support Special­ist will get back to you at Internet address:
[e-mail].

If you received your unit and found it to be damaged or incomplete
in any way, phone Wavetek immediately. Save the shipping carton
and packing material in the event that you have to return it.

FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE call: WAVETEK [phone],
International Customers, contact your local Wavetek Representa­tive.

64

65

MODEL MS1300

SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency

Range: 45 to 550 MHz; 45 to 890 MHz (optional);

sub band option (5 to 45 MHz)
Accuracy: +10kHz @ 25°C; (+20 kHz over temp.)
Tuning Resolution: 25 kHz

Level Measurement

Range: -20 to +50 dBmV
Resolution: 0.1 dB
Accuracy: +0.75 dB Flatness; +0.75 dB Linearity

Scan Mode

Number of Channels: 120
Scan Rate: Approximately 6 carriers / second

General

Dimensions: 4.25" (W) x 10" (H) x 2.5" (D)
Weight: 0.8 kg (1.75 lb.)
Operating Temp. Range:-10 to +50°C (14 to 122°F)
Water Resistance: Meets or exceeds MIL-STD-810D

(Method 506.2)

A

Appendix A:
Specifications

66

Powering

Battery Life: 3 hours continuous (backlight off),

replaceable battery cartridge

Charge Time: 16 hours with unit off; 30 hours slow

charge (with unit operating)

Standard Accessories

4010-00-0114: microStealth AC/DC charger/adapter
1219-00-1223: Battery cartridge for microStealth

Options

MSUHF: Frequency extension to cover range: 45 to 890 MHz
MSSUB: Frequency extension to include 5 to 45 MHz
1019-00-0476: microStealth Soft Carrying Case
1019-00-0470: Cloning Cable
1019-00-0480: Multiple battery cartridge charger
4010-00-0114: Charger/Adapter 120VAC to 18 VDC
1019-00-0473: Charger/Adapter 220VAC to 18 VDC
1219-00-0123: Field replaceable microStealth battery cartridge
P-Stealth: Portable serial thermal fusion printer kit
1019-00-0468: P-Stealth printer cable
1019-00-0467: Generic serial printer cable - 25 pin male connector
1019-00-0469: microStealth to PC Cable

67

MODEL MS1300

Battery Pack Location and Installation

The MS1300 battery pack is located on the back of the unit. To
remove or replace the battery pack, pull the notched tab downward,
and lift up the battery pack.

To install the battery pack, insert the bottom of the pack into the
groove and press down on the battery pack until it clicks into place.

Charging the Battery Pack

To recharge the battery pack, plug the AC adapter into the unit. The
unit will reach fully charged in 16 hours with unit off, and 30 hours
with unit operating.

Battery Tips

The MS1300 is shipped from the factory only with a light charge. You
should recharge the battery upon receipt of your unit to ensure a full
charge.

To maximize battery life, set Auto Shutoff to 1 minute and Backlight
Shutoff to "always off".These items are described in the Global
Configuration section.

B

Appendix B:
Power
Management
and Battery

68

69

MODEL MS1300

CONNECTOR

The MS1300 has a serial interface with RS232 drive, using a 3-pin
stereo connector. The serial interface has a driver built in for RS232
serial binary data interchange. The connector is located on the
bottom of the unit behind a waterproof cover.

Pin Assignments for Interface Port

Signal Pin Description
TXD 1 Transmitted Data
RXD 2 Received Data
GND 3 Ground

C

Appendix C:
Interface Port

70

CABLE SPECIFICATIONS

MICROSTEALTH TO PC (1019-00-0469)

MICROSTEALTH TO PRINTER(STANDARD) (1019-00-0467)

71

MICROSTEALTH TO MICROSTEALTH (1019-00-0470)

MICROSTEALTH TO PRINTER(CITIZEN) (1019-00-0467)