Airtel MTP Series User manual

THE DATA LINK COMPANY
MTP - MULTI TEST PLATFORM
HARDWARE EQUIPMENT
USER GUIDE

This document and its contents are confidential and must not be disclosed to other
parties without written authority from Airtel ATN Ltd.
© Airtel ATN 2019
Doc. ID: Airtel-MTP-USG-001
Version: 1.9 - 09.09.2019

1. General................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 Brief Specifications.......................................................................................................................... 6
2. Component Identification ............................................................................................................7
3. System Description........................................................................................................................10
3.1 General ................................................................................................................................................10
3.2 System Schematic............................................................................................................................ 11
3.3 Technical Specifications................................................................................................................. 11
3.4 Laptop ................................................................................................................................................. 15
3.5 Mini-VDR............................................................................................................................................. 15
3.6 Switch and Indicator Panel..........................................................................................................16
3.7 Input / Output Panel...................................................................................................................... 18
3.8 MTP Lid Assembly ..........................................................................................................................19
4. Operation........................................................................................................................................... 21
4.1 Initial Operation ............................................................................................................................... 21
4.2 Normal Operation ........................................................................................................................... 21
4.3 Shutting Down................................................................................................................................. 22
4.4 Battery Charging ............................................................................................................................ 22
4.5 Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 23
5. Removal / Installation of LAPTOP ......................................................................................... 24
5.1 Removal ............................................................................................................................................. 24
5.2 Installation......................................................................................................................................... 24
6. Removal / Installation of Batteries........................................................................................ 25
6.1 Laptop (with removable batteries) Battery Removal / Installation............................ 25
6.2 MTP System Battery Removal / Installation ........................................................................ 25
6.3 MTP Batteries – General Handling & Care ............................................................................ 25
7. Removal / Installation of Trolley Wheels Attachment .................................................. 26
7.1 Removal .............................................................................................................................................26
7.2 Installation......................................................................................................................................... 26
TABLE OF CONTENTS

8. Troubleshooting Guide ............................................................................................................... 27
9. Packing / Unpacking and Transportation........................................................................... 28
9.1 Unpacking - Checklist................................................................................................................... 28
APPENDIX A: Compliance....................................................................................................................... 29
A.1 MTP-100.............................................................................................................................................29
APPENDIX B: Glossary of terms............................................................................................................30
INDEX ............................................................................................................................................................... 31

Figure 1: General Assembly ......................................................................................................................8
Figure 2: Top Panel View (without laptop) .........................................................................................8
Figure 3: Exposed View............................................................................................................................. 9
Figure 4: MTP Lid ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Figure 5: Schematic Diagram .................................................................................................................. 11
Figure 6: Mini-VDR...................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 7: Switch and Indicator Panel................................................................................................... 16
Figure 8: Input/Output Panel ................................................................................................................. 18
Figure 9: MTP Lid ........................................................................................................................................ 19
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Equipment Specifications...................................................................................................... 6
Table 2: Component Identification.......................................................................................................7
Table 3: Model Parameters ..................................................................................................................... 11
Table 4: Transmit Specifications.......................................................................................................... 12
Table 5: Carrier Output Power ............................................................................................................. 12
Table 6: Receive Specifications ........................................................................................................... 12
Table 7: Audio / GPS Specifications.................................................................................................. 12
Table 8: Antenna Specifications .......................................................................................................... 13
Table 9: General Specifications............................................................................................................ 13
Table 10: Portability Specifications ......................................................................................................14
Table 11: Optional Extras ......................................................................................................................... 14
Table 12: Replacement Parts ..................................................................................................................14
Table 13: Troubleshooting Guide.......................................................................................................... 27
Table 14: Main Accessories Checklist ................................................................................................. 28
Table 15: Lid Accessories Checklist..................................................................................................... 28
LIST OF FIGURES

6
1. GENERAL
This manual provides an overview of the MTP hardware. It is intended to be used in
conjunction with the software application’s HELP or User Guide.
This document describes the physical attributes and user considerations of the MTP,
Multi Test Platform.
The MTP is used as a platform for applications such as PVDL (Aircraft or Ground
Station), MRO and VDB – depending on the customer options.
Detailed operation of those software applications are described in their
respective User Manuals.
1.1 BRIEF SPECIFICATIONS
Item Details
Computer Dell, Latitude E74xx or equivalent
Mini-VDR Airtel Mini-VDR PN PVDL-3101
Pelican Equipment Case Peli 1500
Weight 11.88 kg / 26.20 lbs excluding accessories
Size 470 x 375 x 180 mm / 18.5 x 14.5 x 7 in
Table 1: Equipment Specifications

7
2. COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION
Component identifiers are used throughout this manual to provide positive identification
of all major components including accessories.
The major components of the test set are identified with one or two-digit number per
Table 2 below:
Item Description Item Description
1. Battery 1 23. Fuse
2. Battery 2 24. Stowage space
3. Top panel latch 25. Support strut
5. Input / Output panel 26. Locking pin
7. Switch & Indicator Panel 30. Laptop mounting post
9. GPS Tray 31. Headphone Socket
10. Stylus holder 32. SYSTEM/VDR POWER Switch
11. Manual holder 33. CHAN Busy
12. MTP Antenna mount 34. VDR Operate
13. Antenna stowage 35. SYSTEM POWER Indicator
14. BNC terminator and stowage 36. MASTER POWER Switch
15. Co-ax BNC holder 37. Antenna Bonding Strap
Attachment Point
16. Antenna Bonding Strap 38. MTP 50 ΩCo-axial feed-thru Connector
17. Case 39. GPS USB type A Connection Point
18. Laptop 40. Audio Speaker
19. Antenna (mounted) 41. Spare USB type A Connection Point
20. LAPTOP Mounting Tray 42. External DC Charging Point
21. Mini-VDR 43. Laptop USB type B Connection Point
22. Battery Bays / Battery Tabs 44. USB type A – USB type B connector
(not shown)
Table 2: Component Identification

8
Figure 1: General Assembly
Figure 2: Top Panel View
(without laptop)
30
36
32
33
34
35
31
37 39 38 43 42
7
17
18
19
1
3
5
2
40 41

9
Figure 3: Exposed View
Figure 4: MTP Lid
24
11
10
9
16 15
14
13
12
23
26
25
21
22
20

10
3. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
3.1 GENERAL
The Multi Test Platform (MTP) combines the Mini-VDR, LAPTOP, batteries and power
supplies, to provide a fully portable testing and monitoring station. It is designed to
support multiple independent software applications.
MTP is built into a rugged and environmentally sealed carry case. The case is also
fitted with a removable set of trolley wheels and handle for convenience. All major
components are situated within the chassis below the hinged LAPTOP mounting tray
(item 20).
The LAPTOP mounting tray is locked and released using the latches
on either side (item 3)
The MTP system utilizes two battery sources:
a. the LAPTOP’s integral Li-Ion battery pack housed within the laptop.
b. the separate system Li-Ion batteries (items 1 and 2) housed
within the chassis.
The two battery sources are charged separately in-situ using their respective AC
Adapter chargers. The system batteries are easily removed by raising the hinged
mounting tray to expose the battery bays (item 22) and pulling on the battery tabs.
The Laptop (item 18) provides the user interface, data storage, programmed
functionality and system documentation.
The system electronics, including the Mini-VDR, are powered by the MTP system battery.
Power distribution within the unit is controlled via the power switches on the MTP
Switch and Indicator Panel. (item 7)
A passive USB hub allows the LAPTOP to connect to 3 USB devices – the Mini-VDR,
the GPS18X receiver, and an externally connected device such as a USB memory stick
via the connector (item 41) on Input/Output panel (item 5). The MTP internal USB hub
is USB 2.0 compliant and supports Low Power USB devices.
An internal Audio Amplifier and LED Module drives the MTP mini-speaker (item 40),
the external headphones and the MTP status indicators located on the Switch and
Indicator Panel. Refer section 3.6.
The MTP is supplied with a Garmin GPS18X GPS receiver as standard. The GPS
is only required for selected software applications. Its use is described in the relevant
software application user guides.
A storage space (item 24) located below the hinged LAPTOP mounting tray
provides storage for the GPS receiver, AC adaptors and power leads and other items
at the user’s discretion.

11
3.2 SYSTEM SCHEMATIC
The following diagram (Figure 5) gives an overview of the MTP system schematic.
Laptop
AC Adapter
USB Hub
Mini VDR
RF Attenuator
LED /
Audio
Module
On/Off
Green
MTP Antenna Mount, BNC (F)
MTP
Feed-thru Connector,
BNC (F)
SPARE SYST PWR
108-137MHz
GPS
Operate
Green
Busy
Red
System
AC
Adapter
Antenna
Coupler
R
E
G
B
A
T
T
PWR
Supply
Figure 5: Schematic Diagram
3.3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
There are 3 basic models of the MTP configured principally to meet the requirements
of particular regulatory and user environments. The key differences between the models
are summarised in Table 3:
MTP-100 MTP-200 MTP-300
Antenna System1Feed Power 50μW50mW 50nW
Antenna System1Feed (dBm) -13dBm +17dBm -43dBm
Approximate Transmit Range > 200 meters > 500 meters ~ 10 meters
Min. Receivable Input Level2-68dBm -98dBm -38dBm
Table 3: Model Parameters
Note 1: Measured at MTP Co-axial Feed-Thru Connector
Note 2: For an uncorrected BER better than 10-3
General Specifications covering all 3 models are:

12
TRANSMIT:
Frequency Range 108.000 to 117.950 (VDB application)
118.000 to 136.975 (VHF Data Link)
Channel Spacing 25 kHz
Modulation AM-MSK (ACARS) D8PSK (VDL2, VDB).
Transmit Duty Cycle 100%.
Frequency Stability +/- 2ppm.
Emissions & RF Mask Meets DO-224A and ED-92A.
Table 4: Transmit Specifications
Unmodulated Carrier Output Power measured at the MTP Co-axial Feed-Thru
Connector, located on the top panel:
Model Type MTP-100 MTP-200 MTP-300
Maximum Power Output, dBm -13dBm +17dBm -43dBm
Maximum Power Output, Watts 50μW50mW 50nW
Note 1: Unmodulated Carrier Output Power at the MTP Co-axial Feed-Thru Connector,
defaults to the maximum value, the power level is configurable in 1dBm steps under
software control for specific applications; Refer to Application User Guides for details.
Table 5: Carrier Output Power
RECEIVE:
Frequency Range 108.000 to 136.975MHz (depending on software application)
Channel Spacing 25 kHz
Model Type MTP-100 MTP-200 MTP-300
Input Signal Range: -68 to +20dBm -98 to +10dBm -38 to +20dBm
Sensitivity: Uncorrected BER better than 10-3 over the input signal range
measured at the MTP Co-axial Feed-Thru Connector.
Resolution: 1dB over the input signal range measured at the MTP Co-axial
Feed-Thru Connector. Application dependent.
Burnout Protection: No permanent damage with input signal of less than +20dBm
Table 6: Receive Specifications
Audio Mini speaker and 300 Ohm PJ-055 headset socket.
GPS GPS18x USB is supplied for integral or remote mount.
Table 7: Audio/GPS Specifications

13
ANTENNA:
VHF telescopic – detachable. Antenna length adjustable 6.5 to 23.5 inches
(165 to 600 mm)
Users have the option of supplying their own 50 Ohm VHF antenna to connect
to the Co-axial Feed-Thru Connector.
Table 8: Antenna Specifications
GENERAL:
Environmental IP67
Temperature Range -10°C to 50°C (operating)
0°C to 45°C (during battery charge)
Computer - laptop DELL Latitude 74xx or equivalent
Power Sources Operates from batteries and/or external power
sources. Provides uninterrupted operation when
connecting or disconnecting external power.
External Power Sources AC Adapters for laptop and system batteries.
System Battery Dual 3.1AH 14.4V Li Ion Battery.
System Operation from Full Charge 8 hours
Laptop Operation from Full Charge Approx 8 hours
System Battery charge indicator. Yes
Connectivity Expansion System USB hub offers an expandable
USB 2.0 port.
Dimensions 18.5 x 14 x 7 inches; 470 x 355 x 180 mm,
(excluding pull handle and wheels)
18.5 x 14.5 x 9 inches; 470 x 370 x 230 mm,
(including pull handle and wheels)
Peli 1500 case Colours – Orange (standard, see Options below)
Weight 33 pounds (15 kg), including accessories,
pull handle and wheels
Table 9: General Specifications

14
PORTABILITY
Portability. Detachable pull handle and trolley wheels
on the Peli 1500 case.
Airline Transportation. Peli 1500 case meets airline carry-on dimensions.
Laptop easily removed from unit.
Laptop and System Li Ion batteries easily removed
and stored within the Peli
1500 case when required for transportation.
Pull Handle and Trolley Wheels easily removed from unit.
Accessory Storage Internal accessory storage space for adapters, leads,
batteries etc
Table 10: Portability Specifications
OPTIONS
Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part #
Extended Warranty including Calibration Airtel ATN
Automobile 24VDC source with adapter lead. Sordan
Case Color Options: Yellow, Black,
Silver, Desert Tan Airtel ATN
Table 11: Optional Extras
USER ORDERABLE REPLACEMENT PARTS
Description Manufacturer Manufacturer Part #
USB Type A to USB Type B Double
Angled (6 inches) USBFIREWIRE RR-AR4BR1-12G
50 Ohm Telescopic Antenna, Swivel
base, BNC Plug Tenma 72-6601
BNC termination plug, 1%,
50 Ohm, 0.5W Telegartner J01006A1268
Touchscreen Stylus Targus AMM165EU
GPS18X with short USB cable Airtel ATN AIRTEL-ATN-106-01
Detachable Pull Handle
and Trolley Wheels Airtel ATN AIRTEL-ATN-107-01
System Fuse
(FUSE, QUICK BLOW, 2.5A) BUSSMANN BY EATON BK/S500-2.5-R
System AC Adapter - 24V, 2.5A, 60W Accutronics 599020
System European AC Power Cord Accutronics 551007
System North American
AC Power Cord Accutronics 551006
System Batteries Accutronics ND2054HD31
Table 12: Replacement Parts

15
3.4 LAPTOP
The DELL Latitude laptop with an integral Li-Ion battery provides approximately 8 hours
operation in the MTP platform (depending on power-save settings).
The MTP laptop is delivered with Microsoft Windows or Linux operating system
depending on software applications loaded. Power Management settings have been
optimised for normal MTP usage.
In addition, the MTP is delivered with several DELL features disabled to prevent
inadvertent loading of ‘auto updates‘ which may introduce incompatible operating
system characteristics.
It is important that the laptop processor is never allowed to suspend or hibernate during
operation of the MTP software applications as this will interfere with the system’s use of
the USB input/output and control functions.
3.5 MINI-VDR
The Mini-VDRTM (item 21) gives the MTP its VHF/RF communications capability.
It is a compact, portable, low power realisation of an Arinc 750 VDR designed
specifically for test and diagnostic applications. The Mini-VDR is controlled across
a USB LAPTOP interface using the ADS-ASIP protocol – a modified version of Arinc 750
ASIP – which provides information and control functions with user/keyboard access.
The 12V DC voltage for the Mini-VDR is controlled by the SYSTEM/VDR
Power switch (Item 32).
The Mini-VDR is secured under the hinged LAPTOP mounting tray (item 20)
and is not normally accessible to the user.
Figure 6: Mini-VDR

16
3.6 SWITCH AND INDICATOR PANEL
The Switch and Indicator Panel shown in Figure 7 provides control and status display.
1. MASTER POWER switch (item 36)
Function: This switch acts as an isolation switch. When turned off (O), the internal
battery and external charger power sources are completely disconnected from
the system electronics. When turned on (I), the MTP system power supply is
energised and ready to provide power to operate the system.
Figure 7: Switch and Indicator Panel
2. SYSTEM/VDR POWER switch (item 32)
Function: Allows the system power supply to apply power to the MTP system
components. A 2.5 ampere fast blow fuse (item 23) protects the output of the
system power supply.
3. SYSTEM ON Indicator - Green (item 35)
Function: Indicates that the system power supply is providing power to the MTP
system components.
32
33
34
35
31
36

17
4. VDR OPERATE Indicator - Green (item 34)
Function: Indicates that the internal Mini-VDR is operational
(powered and software functional).
5. VDR CHAN BUSY Indicator - Red (item 33)
Function: Indicates that the RF Channel is busy due to existing RF signals
on channel or that the MTP is currently transmitting.
Note 1: When the MTP transmits, the CHAN BUSY will come ON and the VDR
OPERATE indicator will turn OFF.
HEADPHONE Connector (300 Ω) (item 31) Provides an audio signal generated from
received data signals to assist with awareness of system activity. The same audio signals
are delivered to the mini-speaker located on the Input / Output Panel.

18
3.7 INPUT / OUTPUT PANEL
Figure 8: Input/Output Panel
The MTP Input / Output Panel contains the following:
1. System Charge Input (item 42) - use only the AC Adapter accessory provided
2. Laptop USB type B connection (item 43) – provides interface between
the Laptop and the internal USB hub
3. Spare USB type A connection (item 41) – provides a convenient means
of connection an external USB device to the Laptop e.g. USB memory stick,
printer etc. The MTP internal USB hub is USB 2.0 compliant and supports
Low Power USB devices.
4. GPS USB type A connection (item 39) – used to connect the GPS receiver
when in use.
5. Ground plane bonding strap connection (item 37) – provides a ground reference
attachment for the enclosed antenna ground plane.
6. RF coaxial feed-thru connector (item 38) – provides a means of connecting
the enclosed Mini-VDR to the lid-enclosed antenna module.
7. Mini-Speaker (item 40) – provides an audio signal generated from received
data signals to assist with awareness of system activity. The same audio
signals are available via the MTP headphone output installed on the Switch
and Indicator Panel.
CAUTION: Be careful when raising the hinged Laptop Mounting Tray that any
connectors plugged into the Input/Output Panel are not damaged or cause interference.
37 39 38 40 43 42 41

19
3.8 MTP LID ASSEMBLY
The MTP Lid Assembly accommodates several functional and operational elements:
1. ANTENNA RECEPTACLE / MATCHING MODULE AND GROUND PLANE
The BNC connector on the MTP Antenna Mount (item 12) is the connection point for the
MTP telescopic antenna. The lid of the MTP ‘Peli-case’ also conceals an integral ground
plane and antenna matching module which are designed to optimise the efficiency of
the MTP as a stable transmit and receive platform and with minimal loading effects from
nearby objects.
Figure 9: MTP Lid
2. GPS MOUNTING TRAY (ITEM 9)
The GPS Mounting Tray is designed for the supplied GPS18X receiver. It is released by
pulling it away from the concealed magnetic latch to rest in a horizontal position.
3. MANUAL HOLDER (ITEM 11)
The Manual Holder is a convenient place to stow the User Guide.
4. COAXIAL CABLE STOWAGE (ITEM 15)
The ‘press-fit’ cavity provides a place to stow the antenna co-axial lead when it is not
connected on the Input / Output panel.
11
10
9
16 15
14
13
12

20
5. RF BONDING STRAP (ITEM 16)
The RF Bonding Strap connection – provides a ground reference attachment
for the enclosed antenna ground plane.
6. 50 OHM TERMINATOR STORAGE (ITEM 14)
Provides a storage place for the 50Ωterminator. The terminator may replace
the antenna when in the vicinity of strong RF signals to further attenuate
the RF signal levels.
7. STYLUS STORAGE CLIPS (ITEM 10)
A touch-screen stylus is included for the convenience of users.
8. ANTENNA STORAGE CLIPS (ITEM 13)
The antenna is stored here when closing the MTP lid.