Actox ABE10KXHM User manual

ABE10KXHM User Manual
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ABE10KXHM / ABE10KXHMF
10W Extended Ku-Band BUC
USER MANUAL

ABE10KXHM User Manual
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Table of contents
Introduction……………………………………………….………………..………...5
Receiving and
inspection…………………………………………………..……………………...…..6
Equipment Damage or Loss
Return of Equipment
Preparing for
installation…………………………………………………….….…………..…….…..7
Safety Precautions
Installation &
Overview………………………………………………..……………….………….…..8
General Description, General Considerations, Securing the Block Up Converter
Installing the Block Up
Converter…………………………………………………………………………..….………………...…...9
Tools & Equipment, Site Considerations, Preparation
LED Indication…………………………………………………………………….……..………………...10
10 MHz Reference, Setting the L.O., Setting the TX and RX Frequencies
Recommended Test
Equipment………………….………………………………………….….….………..11
Connections and Mounting
Hardware………………………………………………………………….….……..…12
Functional
Overview………………………………………………………….……….…………..13
Operational
Procedure………………………………………………………….…………………..14
Maintenance……………………………………………………….…………………..15

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Performance
Check……………………………………………….....…………….………………...16
Out-of Warranty Repair
Appendix 1 Specifications ……………..………………...….………….……………....17
Appendix 2 Mechanical
Drawing…………….………………………………….………………………………….18
Appendix 3 Spare Parts
Form………………..………………………………………………….…………………..19
Appendix 4 M&C Commands..…………….…….…………………………..………..………………….20
Appendix 5
M&C Connection Instructions………..………….…………………………..………..………………….25

ABE10KXHM User Manual
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Scope
This document covers the installation, operation, and maintenance of the ABE10KXHM BUC. It contains
information intended for engineers, technicians and operators working with the block up converter.
To make inquiries, or to report errors of fact or omission in this document, please contact Actox Corporation
at toll free 866-888-6087.

ABE10KXHM User Manual
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Introduction
The ABE10KXHM is a reliable, high quality, cost efficient stand-alone block up converter. The application for
this block up converter is Ku-Band VSAT communication in an outdoor environment. This line of superior
products, engineered using state of the art technology, is characterized by unparalleled durability and
dependability.
This is the smallest and lightest 10W L-To Ku-Band Block Up Converter and is designed to be mounted on the
feed horn. The unit is ideal for portable and mobile applications.
KEY FEATURES
RF frequency 13.75-14.50 GHz
IF frequency 950 to 1,700 MHz
Smallest package size and weight
Double L.O. (switchable 12.80 and 13.05 GHz)
Auto-ranging 15 - 60 VDC
Low power consumption (49W max)
Digital temperature compensation
L.O. lock and amplifier LED
Advanced M&C interface- combined RS-232/485,
Ethernet (HTTP and SNMP ver. 3) & FSK (optional)
Autosensing and Controllable Internal 10MHz
high stability reference (optional)
RoHS compliant

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Receiving and Inspection
The block up converter is designed to function outdoors and will arrive in a standard shipping container.
Immediately upon receipt of the block up converter, check the packing slip against the actual equipment you
have received. Inspect the shipping containers exteriors for visible damage incurred during shipping.
CAUTION!
Handle the block up converter with extreme care. Excessive shock may damage block up converter’s
delicate internal components.
Using the supplied packing list, verify that all items have been received and undamaged during shipment.
Verify that all items are complete. If there are any omissions or evidence of improper packaging, please notify
Actox Corporation immediately.
Equipment Damage or Loss
Actox Corporation is not responsible for damage or loss of equipment during transit. For further information,
contact the responsible transport carrier.
When declaring equipment as damaged during transit, preserve the original shipping cartons to facilitate
inspection reporting.
Return of Equipment
When returning equipment to Actox Corporation for repair or replacement:
1. Identify, in writing, the condition of the equipment;
2. Refer to the Invoice, Purchase Order and the date the equipment was received.
Notify Actox Corporation RMA department of the equipment condition and obtain a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number and shipping instructions.
NOTE
Do not return any equipment without an RMA number.
This is important for prompt, efficient handling of the
returned equipment and of the associated complaint.

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Preparing for Installation
Before attempting to install or use the block up converter, we recommend that you first familiarize yourself
with the product by reading through this manual. Understanding the operation of the system will reduce the
possibility of incorrect installation, thereby causing damage or injury to yourself or others.
Safety Precautions
Carelessness or mishandling of the block up converter may damage the unit causing serious injury to yourself
or others. Please adhere to the following:
WARNING!!
If your unit is equipped with an AC power cord and plug, do not tamper with, or attempt to reconfigure, the
cord or plug supplied with the unit, as this can:
Result in personal injury;
Void the warranty;
Cause damage to the units or related equipment.

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Installation and Overview
General Description
This section describes the installation and theory of operation of the block up converter.
ABE10KXHM is powered by +15~+60 VDC via IF connector.
It will amplify an input signal from an L-Band RF source up to a power level of 10 Watts (min) CW in Ku-
Band.
The block up converter can be used as a stand-alone unit or in a redundant configuration.
Specifications
Appendix 1. summarizes the technical specifications of the ABE10KXHM BUC. For mechanical
specifications, refer to the outline drawing, Appendix 2.
General Considerations
The block up converter shall meet all specifications over full bandwidth and under all environmental
conditions when terminated with a load of VSWR at 1.5:1 unless otherwise specified. All RF specifications
shall be met within five minutes after applying power, except gain flatness, which shall be met after a warm-up
period of ten minutes. During the warm-up period, the block up converter shall not exhibit any alarm or
require an RF mute input signal to reset any alarm/fault latches.
Securing the block up converter
Align the block up converter output waveguide flange with the mating flange of the antenna feeder waveguide.
Using the O-ring and hardware provided, connect the antenna feeder waveguide. Torque the flange screws to
16 inch-pounds (1.8 N-m). Attach the proper cables for waveguide for IF input, DC power and M&C if
equipped to the corresponding connectors of the block up converter.
The cylindrical connectors are labeled clearly and have different pin layouts. It is impossible to incorrectly
install the mating connectors.

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Installing the Block-Up Converter
Tools and Test Equipment
Have on hand a standard electrician's tool kit and any tools listed in the antenna manufacturer's installation
instructions.
Site Considerations
The BUC is designed to mount on the antenna. Locate and install the antenna according to instructions
supplied by the antenna manufacturer. Choose an area that is free of extraneous interference from motors and
electrical equipment and has a clear line of sight from the antenna to the satellite. Lightning arrestors should be
used at the site to protect personnel and equipment.
Preparation
Mounting Considerations:
Optional Mounting Brackets are available that will facilitate mounting for most antennas.
The ODU must be mounted such that:
- Sufficient support is afforded to the BUC, the LNB and the Power supply to minimize the effects of antenna
sway in strong winds;
- Air movement across the heat fins is possible;
- The length of the Power supply cables is taken into consideration in determining the mounting location of the
power supply.
Throughout installation and during any polarization, azimuth or elevation adjustment, ensure that cables and
waveguide are not crimped or pinched.

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10MHz Reference
The BUC must receive a stable external 10MHz reference provided by a stable signal source such as a signal
generator, satellite modem or injected externally with a Bias T (for example, ABT6ARN/ABT6ARF
manufactured by Actox Corporation) or a similar bias T type.
Please make sure to check the sticker on the BUC for the appropriate power source before any power
connections are performed:
Powered via MS or IF Universal 15-60VDC
A universal powered unit is powered through a 2-pin MS mating connector (which is included with the BUC)
or IF input by an external minimum 60W 24VDC or 48VDC power supply source.
Powered via only MS 15-60VDC (optional)
MS only powered unit uses a 2-pin MS mating connector (which is included with the BUC) with either a
24VDC or 48VDC external power source with at least 60W.
Setting the L.O.
Switchable L.O. can be switched mechanically by using the micro switch under the protective bolt (marked on
the connector side of the BUC), or electronically if the BUC is equipped with M&C interface.
To change the L.O. mechanically, the protective bolt needs to be removed, and the micro switch pressed in
with any small object such as toothpick. If the BUC is equipped with M&C interface, the L.O. can be switched
electronically with the appropriate M&C command or via GUI.
Setting the TX and RX Frequencies
All transmit and receive frequencies are set in the modem. For a direct connection to an L-band modem follow
the manufacturer’s instructions on setting the transmit and receive frequencies.
Ensure that it is safe to transmit prior to enabling the transmission.
LED Indication
SSPA LED Green All OK
SSPA LED Red Summary Alarm
L.O. LED Blinking Yellow L.O. is set to 12.80GHz
L.O. is set to 13.05GHz
NO POWER
External 10MHz Reference
10MHz is Absent
Internal 10MHz Reference
L.O. LED Yellow
NO LED indicators
10MHz LED Green
10MHz LED Red
10MHz LED Green Blinking

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Recommended Test Equipment
The following equipment or equivalent is recommended for installation and system alignment:
Equipment Type
Spectrum Analyzer HP8563E
Digital Voltmeter Fluke 8050
Adapter Waveguide to coax C or Ku-band
RF cables With calibrated insertion loss up to 15GHz
40 dB attenuator High Power to match HPA output.
Assortment of cables, connectors and adapters (calibrated up to 18 GHz)
Ensure that the BUC TX output power is disabled to prevent accidental transmission interference with
adjacent satellites or transponders before attempting to align or performing any other operation involving the
ODU. Before attempting any system change, carefully evaluate the possible effects of the transmitted signal.

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Connections and Mounting Hardware
The IF input connection requires a coaxial cable with an F or N type connector. The RF output requires a
waveguide with a WR-75 flat flange. An O-ring shall be used to seal the waveguide connection.
Assembly and Installation
Use the information in this section as a guide to assemble and install the block up converter. The specified
humidity is up to 100% during operation. However, installation should be carried out in dry conditions, free of
salt spray or excessive humidity. This will eliminate the possibility of moisture and other foreign substances
from entering the output waveguide flange.
CAUTION!!
Only authorized technical personnel should perform the Installation and proper electrical hookups of the
block up converter.

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Functional Overview
General
This section describes the block up converter functions in detail. The functional overview explains the RF
amplification, monitor & control and power distribution.
IF/RF Conversion and Amplification
The IF Input requires a signal with a 10MHz reference, and 15-60 VDC power source. 2-4.5Amps nominal
enters the BUC by a coaxial cable, converted to Ku-Band by the BUC and goes through an internal isolator
and reject filter, which provides a good VSWR at the input. Under normal operation, the RF amplifier will
amplify the RF Input signal level up to a power level of 40 dBm or 10 Watts CW minimum.
To achieve the rated output power of the RF Amplifier, provide the necessary gain and low insertion loss. The
amplified signal is transmitted through the output waveguide section to a satellite up-link system.
Monitor and Control (optional)
The block up converter may have a RS-485 and RS-232 serial interface. With this option the block up
converter can communicate to the indoor unit or redundancy control block up converter via RS-485 or RS-232.
The control system can provide the following M&C functions:
BUC Alarm (via RS-485/RS-232): when an input BUC within the block up converter system current
draw is below 0.3A, a BUC alarm signal will be transmitted via the RS-485/RS-232 serial interface.
Mute Control (via RS-485/RS-232)
Mute Control (via hardware line): TTL high level signal will mute a block up converter
Output Power Monitoring: 20 dB dynamic range (via RS-485/RS-232)
Base Plate Temperature Monitoring (via RS-485/RS-232)

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Operation
It shall be performed by authorized personnel prior to maintenance and/or repair.
Procedure
Verify that the installation procedure described was completed. A complete physical check of the customer’s
system is suggested.
WARNING!!
The output power available at the output waveguide flange is extremely
hazardous. Under no circumstances should block up converter be operated
without the waveguide feed or a high power load attached. Do not operate
this equipment in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. Failure to
observe this precaution will result in personal injury. Safe and careful
installation of this block up converter will eliminate the possibility of
accidents and provide years of top performance.
Verify the antenna feed waveguide connection is properly done before the block up converter is energized.
NOTE
The block up converter can withstand any source or load VSWR. However,
the block up converter will meet all specification requirements only if the
source/load VSWR is sufficient. Normal operation is not possible if the
antenna feeder VSWR is greater than 1.5:1.
Turn ON the power and allow a warm up period of twenty minutes before operating the block up converter.
This will assure stable gain and power. The block up converter can function with a coupler when a direct
measurement of the output power is made.

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Maintenance
This section contains information on how to maintain, troubleshoot and repair the block up converter. The
block up converter is extremely reliable, requiring very little preventive maintenance, or repair. Should there
be a malfunction, this section also contains technical information to help diagnose basic failures.
Preventive Maintenance
WARNING!!
Shut down the block up converter before disassembly and remove all cables
and connectors. Failure to observe this precaution may result in personal
injury or death. This includes the removal of any RF power originating from
other system components.
When the block up converter is in the hot stand-by mode in a redundant system, switch it to the operation
mode at least once every three months.
When the block up converter is in the cold stand-by mode in a redundant system, switch it to the operation
mode at least once every three months.
Block up converter Cooling System Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is limited to checking the performance of the block up converter cooling system. No
electrical or mechanical adjustments are required for normal operation.
.

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Performance Check
Verify the system is properly set up.
It is recommended to measure the following parameters for ensuring that the block up converter is in good
working condition:
-Gain and Gain flatness
-RF load VSWR and RF source VSWR
-Two-Tone Inter-modulation Distortion
-Return Loss at connectors of the block up converter
Using a Source and an IF input signal level within the small signal region of the block up converter, measure
the power level at connectors IF or MS connector. Plot the swept response on a test data sheet. From the plot,
determine gain and gain flatness.
Plot the swept return loss for both the IF Input and RF Output signals on a test data sheet. From the plot
determine the return loss.
From the output power measurements determine rated output power. Record value on a test data sheet.
Measure the Two-tone Inter-modulation Suppression using two equal signals separated by 5 MHz. Record
value on test data sheet.
WARNING!!
Cable connection and disconnection shall be done carefully to avoid physical
damage to the cables and connectors, which may cause intermittent problems
in the future.
Out-of Warranty Repair
A non-warranty and out-of-warranty repair service is available from Actox Corporation for a nominal charge.
The customer is responsible for paying the cost of shipping the BUC both to and from Actox Corporation for
these repairs.
Symptom Action
Fails performance test Check power source, RF source, cabling and connectors. Check LED
indicators for status and if the light is red contact Actox Corporation. If we
are not able to assist you remotely, return block up converter to Actox
Corporation after RMA number has been issued.

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Appendix 1. Specifications

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Appendix 2. Mechanical Drawing

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Appendix 3. Spare Parts
The following sheet can be copied and used as a fax form to order the required spare parts. Please make sure
to include all identifying information to facilitate the processing of your order. The order may be sent via
email to the following address.
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
For additional information, please contact our customer service department at:
[phone] or 1-866-888-6087
Actox Corporation
designers and manufacturers of telecom & wireless products
Spare Parts Order Form ABE10KXHM Ext. Ku-Band
BUC
From:
Place By: Signature:
Telephone:
Fax Email:
Part Description Part Number Quantity Unit
Price* Line Total*
Fax to: Customer Service 1-866-888-6087

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Appendix 4. M&C Commands
Reply Packet format Explanation Interpretation Examples
ACK (Acknowledge 7E FX E0 ZZ 7F Acknowledge that the
received packet was
properly processed.
X = Device address of the packet
source device.
ZZ = CRC.
1) reply: 7E FF E0 E0
7F
(ACK reply sent from
the BUC)
NACK (Not
Acknowledge) 7E FX F1 YY ZZ
7F
Indicate that a
problem was
encountered with
the received packet.
X = Device address of the packet
source device.
YY = Error code
(03 = Incorrect CRC
18 = Unrecognized command
30 = Set command attempted on a
restricted database element)
ZZ = CRC.
1) reply: 7E FF F1 03
F2 7F
(NACK reply sent from
the BUC for an
invalid CRC)
2) reply: 7E FF F1 18
E9 7F
(NACK reply sent from
the BUC for an
unrecognized
command).
Command Packet
format Explanation Possible replies Interpretation Examples
1) cmd: 7E FF 02 06 06 02
7F
reply: 7E FF 84 06 06 01 02
87 7F
Get Device
Temperature
7E FF 02
06 06 02
7F
Query device for
current temperature
Update Device
Temp: 7E FF 84 06
06 TT TT ZZ 7F
TT TT = Device temp in °C
+ 273. ZZ = CRC.
(Temp = 0x0102 = 0d258 –
273 = -15°C) 2) cmd: 7E FF
02 06 06 02 7F
reply: 7E FF 84 06 06 01 34
B1 7F
(Temp = 0x0134 = 0d308 –
273 = +35°C)
Get Power
Supply
Temperature
7E FF 02
06 07 03
7F
Query device for
current power supply
temperature
Update Device PS
Temp: 7E FF 84 06
07 TT TT ZZ 7F
TT TT = PS temp in °C +
273. ZZ = CRC
1) cmd: 7E FF 02 06 07 03
7F reply: 7E FF 84 06 07 01
02 86 7F (Temp = 0x0102 =
0d258 – 273 = -15°C) 2)
cmd: 7E FF 02 06 07 03 7F
reply: 7E FF 84 06 07 01 34
B0 7F (Temp = 0x0134 =
0d308 – 273 = +35°C)
1) cmd: 7E FF 02 17 FF EA
7F
reply: 7E FF 84 17 FF 01 2C
41 7F
Get Output
Power
7E FF 02
17 FF
EA 7F
Query device for
current output power
Update Output
Power: 7E FF 84 17
FF PP PP ZZ 7F
PP PP = Output power in 10
x dBm. ZZ = CRC.
(Power = 0x012C = 0d300 =
30.0dBm.) 2) cmd: 7E FF 02
17 FF EA 7F
reply: 7E FF 84 17 FF 01 A0
CD 7F
(Power = 0x01A0 = 0d416 =
41.6dBm.)
Get Gain
7E FF 02
18 FF E4
7F
Query device for
current gain. Note:
value is depending of
attenuation settings. Update Gain: 7E FF
84 18 FF GG GG ZZ
7F
GG GG = Gain in 10 x dB.
ZZ = CRC.
1) cmd: 7E FF 02 18 FF E5
7F reply: 7E FF 84 18 FF 02
8A 69 7F (Gain = 0x028A =
0d650 = 65.0dB.) 2) cmd:
7E FF 02 18 FF E5 7F reply:
7E FF 84 18 FF 01 F9 F7 7F
(Gain = 0x01F9 = 0d505 =
50.5dB.)