4O3A Signature ANTENNA GENIUS 8x2 v2 PLUS User manual

ANTENNA GENIUS
User Manual
Software Version 4.1.0 - rev 1

4O3A Signature – Antenna Genius User Manual
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................................................................1
1. WELCOME................................................................................................................................3
1.1. Software Version 4.1............................................................................................................3
1.2. Considerations Before Upgrading........................................................................................4
1.3. Backing Up Your Configuration............................................................................................5
2. SPECS & FEATURES ..................................................................................................................7
3. LEGAL.......................................................................................................................................8
3.1. Radio & Television interference........................................................................................8
3.2. European Community CE conformity ...............................................................................8
3.3. Product updates................................................................................................................9
3.4. Limited warranty...............................................................................................................9
3.5. Trademarks .....................................................................................................................10
3.6. Copyright ........................................................................................................................10
4. WHAT CAN ANTENNA GENIUStm DO? ...................................................................................11
4.1. Multiple control options.................................................................................................11
4.2. SO2R and multi-op with a single FLEX-6000...................................................................11
5. HOW IT WORKS .....................................................................................................................13
5.1. Tech.................................................................................................................................13
5.2. Hardware ........................................................................................................................13
5.3. Software..........................................................................................................................13
5.4. FlexRadio Ecosystem.......................................................................................................13
6. ONLINE RESOURCES ..............................................................................................................14
7. WHAT COMES IN THE BOX?...................................................................................................14
8. HARDWARE............................................................................................................................15
8.1. Front panel......................................................................................................................15
8.2. Bottom panel..................................................................................................................15
8.3. Top panel ........................................................................................................................16
8.4. Where to put it? .............................................................................................................16
8.5. DC power connection .....................................................................................................18
8.6. Network cabling..............................................................................................................18
8.7. DIP Switch configurations...............................................................................................19
8.8. LAN Control Mode ..........................................................................................................21
8.9. BCD Control Mode..........................................................................................................23
8.10. Pin-2-Port Control Mode.............................................................................................24
8.11. Automatic Mode .........................................................................................................26
8.12. Manual Mode..............................................................................................................27
9. ANTENNA GENIUStm APP.......................................................................................................27
9.1. Initial set-up....................................................................................................................28
9.2. Device Information .........................................................................................................32
9.3. Is your firmware up-to-date?..........................................................................................34

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9.4. Initial Configuration........................................................................................................37
9.5. The Configuration Menu.................................................................................................37
9.6. Always On Top.................................................................................................................38
9.7. View Output Relays.........................................................................................................38
9.8. Device Settings................................................................................................................39
9.8.1. Basic Information ........................................................................................................39
9.8.2. Antennas......................................................................................................................40
9.8.3. Individual Antenna Settings - Bands, TX/RX/INB.........................................................40
9.8.4. Output Relays Designer...............................................................................................41
9.8.5. Output Groups.............................................................................................................42
9.8.6. Keyboard Shortucuts...................................................................................................45
9.8.7. Bands Range Configuration.........................................................................................46
9.8.8. FlexRadio .....................................................................................................................46
9.8.9. BCD..............................................................................................................................47
9.8.10. PTP.............................................................................................................................48
9.8.11. Network Settings.......................................................................................................48
9.8.12. Stacking .....................................................................................................................49
9.8.13. Advanced Options .....................................................................................................50
9.8.14. Static Entries / Remote Operation ............................................................................51
9.8.15. Auto Connect on Startup...........................................................................................52
9.9. Network Considerations .................................................................................................52
10. OPERATION.........................................................................................................................53
11. ADDITIONAL FEATURES ......................................................................................................53
11.1. Output Module Relay Control.....................................................................................53
12. TROUBLESHOOTING ...........................................................................................................55
12.1. Re-riving a bricked device ...........................................................................................55
13. CHANGELOG .......................................................................................................................56

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1. WELCOME
Congratulations on your purchase of an Antenna GeniusTM 8x2 v2 Plus Network-Enabled
(TCP/IP) High-Isolation Antenna Switch, a member of the 4O3A Genius SystemTM advanced
station automation line including Power GeniusTM, Rotator GeniusTM, and Tuner GeniusTM. More
information on these products can be found at:
https://4o3a.com/products/genius-family
GENIUS TIP! Antenna GeniusTM is sometimes abbreviated as “AG” in this document.
AG is at home in all types of ham shacks: contest stations extravagant and modest, from single
op to SO2R to full blown Multi-Multi, DXers, remote operators controlling their station from
their living room via LAN or over the Internet from a hotel room thousands of miles away, to
anyone wanting a better organized and more efficient station.
1.1. Software Version 4.1
This is the user manual for the new generation of Antenna Genius software - Version 4. This
version is completely rewritten from scratch with the focus on stability, reliability, and a
significant extension in features.
Just for clarification I want to point out that version 4.1 is the first publicly available version
from the new generation. Version 4.0 was never released to the public and was used for
extensive beta testing.
The new firmware has been designed to ensure that your Antenna Genius device operates
optimally, with improved performance and an expanded range of capabilities. Our team of
developers have spent countless hours working on this version to ensure that it is as solid and
as stable as possible. This firmware version will provide you with a seamless experience, with
minimal downtime or unexpected errors.
Fully compatible with all previous hardware versions of Antenna Genius. This means that you
can upgrade to Version 4 with ease, and enjoy the new features without worrying about
compatibility issues. Whether you are using the latest hardware or an older device, you can be
sure that this firmware will work seamlessly with your system.
With Version 4.1, you can expect a significant extension in features, including enhanced
capabilities, improved performance, and a more user-friendly interface. We have taken great
care to ensure that this firmware is easy to use and navigate, even for those who may not be
familiar with technical terminology. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, you
can be confident that this firmware version will meet your needs.

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We are committed to providing our users with the best possible experience, and this new
version of Antenna Genius firmware is a testament to our dedication to excellence. We are
confident that this new firmware will exceed your expectations and provide you with an even
better experience than before. We encourage you to explore the new features and capabilities
of Version 4 and discover the benefits of this latest release.
1.2. Considerations Before Upgrading
Important! The API and network protocol for this version have been completely
redesigned and rewritten so any custom software that worked previously will not be
compatible with new version out of the box, and will need to be updated.
If you have any third-party software or hardware integrated with your AG do not upgrade
before checking if your software has been updated to be compatible with the version 4.
We put in a great deal of effort to ensure that the new API and network protocol are
more reliable, easier to use, and offer enhanced functionality.
The new API is publicly available, and we encourage anyone who wants to use it to
refer to https://github.com/4o3a/genius-api-docs/wiki/Antenna-Genius-API for more
information. Our website provides comprehensive documentation and resources that
can help you get started with the new API and network protocol, as well as troubleshoot
any issues that may arise.
While we understand that the transition to the new API and protocol may take some
time, we are confident that the benefits of this update will be well worth the effort. We
have taken great care to ensure that the new API is more efficient and user-friendly, with
enhanced functionality that will provide a better overall user experience.
We would like to thank our users for their continued support and patience during this
transition period. We are committed to providing you with the best possible experience,
and we believe that this new version of the API and network protocol will help us
achieve that goal. If you have any questions or concerns about this update, please do
not hesitate to contact our support team for assistance.

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1.3. Backing Up Your Configuration
Important! During the process of upgrading to the new firmware the configuration
will be lost.
However, the new version is completely backwards compatible with the previous
generation configuration file.
The configuration is stored in the memory on-board the Antenna Genius but it can be
backed up into an XML configuration file stored on your PC.
In order to back up your configuration:
1. Go to the configuration menu of your
Antenna Genius.

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2. Click on the Export Configuration button.
3. Choose a path and name and save your
config file.
You can load this file into your Antenna Genius
again after upgrading the firmware to version 4

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2. SPECS & FEATURES
Manufacturer 4O3A SignatureTM by Sky Sat d.o.o.
Model Antenna GeniusTM 8x2 Plus v2
Functionality 8 antenna 2 radio RF matrix switch controlled via TCP/IP (LAN or WAN),
BCD, or +12 VDC Pin-To-Port
RF connectors UHF female (SO-239) standard, N female available by special order
Power handling → 3,000 Watts ICAS (SSB/CW) for 5 minutes @ 1.5:1 VSWR @ 30 MHz
→ 1,000 Watts ICAS (SSB/CW) for 3 minutes @ 1.5:1 VSWR @ 50 MHz
Ports → RJ-45 (LAN)
→ two DE-15 VGA-type (BCD band data or +12 VDC pin-to-port)
Network 100Base-T Fast Ethernet (100-Mbps), DHCP or manually-assigned
network address, TCP/IP
Power consumption 300 mA @ 13.8 VDC
Frequency range DC through 55 MHz
Port-to-port isolation → 90dB between ports worst case @ 14 MHz
→ 80dB between ports worst case @ 30 MHz
→ 70dB between ports worst case @ 50 MHz
CPU Microchip Technology 32-bit PIC processor
Automation Windows App, FlexRadio Systems SmartSDR API, Genius System devices,
BCD, Pin-to-Port
Features → hardware interlock prevents two radios connecting to same antenna
→ unselected antenna ports grounded
→ LEDs indicate antenna ports in use
→ firmware updates via LAN
Case rugged stainless steel chassis with wall mount flanges top and bottom
Dimensions 6.75” W x 13.25” H x 3.25” D including mounting flanges (21 x 17 x 6 cm)
Net weight approx. 4.4 lbs. (approx. 2 kg)

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3. LEGAL
3.1. Radio & Television interference
(FCC Part 15 - §15.21 and §15.105)
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
You may also find the following FCC booklet helpful: "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV
Interference Problems" available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C.
20402. Info also available online at FCC.gov:
https://www.fcc.gov/guides/interference-defining-source
Changes and Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer or registrant of this
equipment can void your authority to operate this equipment under Federal Communications
Commission’s rules.
3.2. European Community CE conformity
Sky Sat d.o.o. declares Antenna GeniusTM 8x2 complies with the European Community EMC
standards:

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ETSI EN 300 330-1
ETSI EN 300 489-1
ETSI EN 300 489-15
CE compliance reports are available upon written request to Sky Sat d.o.o.
3.3. Product updates
Sky Sat d.o.o. reserves the right to make hardware and/or software product improvement or
manufacturing changes without notice or any obligation to update units previously sold.
3.4. Limited warranty
This product is warranted to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for one year from
the date of purchase. Sky Sat d.o.o. will repair or replace, at our option, any equipment proven
to be defective within the warranty period. Warranty F.O.B. Sky Sat d.o.o., Ratiševina bb, Igalo
85347, Montenegro. Please contact the appropriate party for your region and obtain a return
authorization (RA) number before returning any product for warranty service. RA number must
be indicated on box used to return product for service.
What is covered: During the first year after date of purchase, 4O3A Signature will replace
defective parts free of charge (post-paid) for AG components only. Any replacement hardware
parts will be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period or ninety (90) calendar
days from the date of installation or repair, whichever is longer. 4O3A Signature will also correct
any failure caused by defective parts and materials. The complete unit must be sent to 4O3A
Signature at your expense in the original shipping container or other packaging sufficient to
prevent damage in transit. 4O3A Signature is not responsible for damage or lost shipments from
the customer. 4O3A Signature will insure the package and pay return shipping.
What is not covered: This Limited Warranty as it pertains to the Antenna Genius or components
does not cover repair or damage caused by (1) misuse, negligence or user modifications; (2) any
performance malfunctions involving non-4O3A Signature equipment; (3) connection to
improper or unstable voltage supply; (4) the incorrect installation of any and all cables
connected to the radio by the user; (5) the use of third-party software applications or hardware
that directly or indirectly controls AG functions and/or operating state by utilizing a
communication or control protocol, such as, but not limited to CAT or I2C commands, or (6)
random acts of nature such as flood, fire, water, weather related storm, lightning or
electrostatic discharge damage.
Limitation of Incidental or Consequential Damages: This warranty does not extend to non-
4O3A Signature equipment or components used in conjunction with our products. Any such
repair or replacement is the responsibility of the customer. 4O3A Signature will not be liable or