American Innovations APM4AM-SAT WS Operator's manual

APM4AM-SAT WS
Installation and Configuration Guide

AMERICAN INNOVATIONS, LTD.
APM4AM-SAT WS
Installation and Configuration Guide
©American Innovations, Ltd.
http://www.aiworldwide.com/
12211 Technology Blvd • Austin, TX 78727
Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 1999-2010 American Innovations, Ltd. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of
American Innovations is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: the American Innovations logo and icon are
trademarks of American Innovations, Ltd. The Bullhorn logo and icon are
registered trademarks of American Innovations, Ltd.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to
either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. American
Innovations, Ltd. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade
names other than its own.
May 17, 2010 Part No. 122143-000, Rev. 1

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide v
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Mounting Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
APM4AM-SAT WS Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Universal Wireless Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Before Installing the Satellite Terminal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Determining the Satellite Look Angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Confirming the Satellite Look Angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Installing the APM4AM-SAT WS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Installing the AC Battery Charger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Bullhorn Information Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Contacting Technical Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Chapter 2. Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Before Configuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Universal Configuration Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
UCT Software Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Main Configuration Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Communication Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Unit Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Battery Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Controller Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Transmission Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

vi Table of Contents
Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Event Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Configuring a Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Selecting a Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Loading a Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Choosing a Folder for Log Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Configuring Battery Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Configuring the Controller Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Configuring a Transmission Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Configuring Input Channels in Active Digital Mode . . . . . 29
Saving Configuration Settings in the Event Log . . . . . . . . 31
Transmitting a Test Packet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Saving a Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Exiting the UCT Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Appendix A. Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Appendix B. Regulatory Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
FCC Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Export Control Classification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 1
Chapter 1
Installation
Introduction
This Installation and Configuration guide provides detailed information
on how to install and configure a APM4AM-SAT WS (wireless sensor)
unit. Chapter 1 describes the installation process. Configuration
information is discussed in Chapter 2.
Required Equipment
The following items are required to install and configure the APM4AM-
SAT WS:
Small slotted screwdriver
Small Phillips head screwdriver
Wire stripper
Wire cutters
Voltmeter
Socket or open end wrench set
Satellite terminal (provided)
Satellite terminal interface cable (provided)
Compass
Waterproof sealing tape
Non-conductive silicone grease
Mounting hardware appropriate for the type of mounting surface
Appropriate tools to prepare the mounting surface for the
installation. Depending on the mounting surface, this may include a
hand drill and metal, masonry, or wood drilling bit.
RS232 serial configuration cable (provided in UCT config kit)

2 Chapter 1. Installation
Installation drawing (provided)
IBM-compatible computer with the following hardware and
software specifications:
Hardware
•Pentium 90 computer (minimum) with CD-ROM drive
•Spare RS232 serial port or USB port
N OTE : If your computer has a USB port instead of a RS232
serial port, use a USB/RS232 adapter cable with the
configuration cable included in the UCT installation kit.
•Minimum 16 megabytes of memory
•6 megabytes of hard disk space
Software
•Microsoft®Windows XP operating system with Service Pack 2
or 3, or Vista®Home Premium, Business, or Ultimate with
Service Pack 1 or higher
•Windows .NET Framework version 1.1 or higher (provided)
•Universal Configuration Toolkit (UCT) software (provided)
•USB device driver (provided)
•Internet Explorer (IE) version 5.5 or higher
•Acrobat Reader version 5.0 or higher
Batteries
The APM4AM-SAT WS uses a rechargeable, sealed lead acid battery
(12 volt, 3.4 Amp. Hr.).
A battery charger is also included to keep the lead acid battery charged. A
red LED indicates that the charger is in fast charge mode; a green LED
indicates that the charger is in float charge mode.
N OTE : The battery charger will shut down if the output terminals are
inadvertently shorted or there is excessive output current. Cycle input
power to return charger to normal operation.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 3
Mounting Requirements
APM4AM-SAT WS enclosures can be mounted anywhere with a few
precautions. The following list identifies certain conditions to consider
when choosing a location to mount the unit. Mounting hardware suitable
for the type of mounting surface is provided by the customer. For unit
dimensions, refer to Figure 1-1.
1. Choose an area that is clear of metal structures that may cause radio
signal interference.
2. Install the unit in an area that provides enough working space to
perform routine maintenance, such as changing the battery or
configuring the unit for service.
3. The installation area should provide a minimum RSSI of +14dB or
better.
Figure 1-1. Unit Dimensions
APM4AM-SAT WS Receiver
The APM4AM-SAT WS receiver is pre-programmed at the factory with
the transmitters mapped to alarm outputs 1 - 6. The first transmitter is
programmed to channel 1. Additional transmitters are programmed
according to the mapping shown in Figure 1-2. A total of 7 transmitters
can be used with each unit.

4 Chapter 1. Installation
Figure 1-2. APM4AM-SAT WS Channel Mapping
N OTE : When an alarm condition is detected, an alarm is sent to
designated locations, such as a cell phone. If an alarm is received, be sure
to check all conditions of the APM4AM-SAT WS receiver, wireless
transmitter, and sensors. If equipment appears to be working normally,
check equipment batteries and ensure that the path between receiver and
tranmitter is clear from obstructions.
Universal Wireless Transmitter
Each transmitter will send a message when either an alarm condition is
detected.
The universal wireless link transmitter is installed with the APM4AM-
SAT WS. Complete installation and startup procedures are described in
the documentation included with the transmitter.
Use the following procedure to install the transmitter:
1. Install or replace battery.
2. Wire transmitter to alarm.
N OTE : Transmitters are set to NC (normally closed) contacts.
3. Enclose transmitter in its enclosure and mount in a suitable
location near the APM4AM-SAT WS.
N OTE : Transmitters need to be installed near the alarm device(s)
that it is monitoring and within the distance included in the specs
for the transmitter. Ideal distance from the APM4AM-SAT WS is
approximately 300-400 yards, maximum. Obstructions will
potentially lower this distance. For greater distances, a wireless
repeater should be used.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 5
Once the wireless transmitter has been installed and powered on, ensure
that the LCD display on the APM4AM-SAT WS receiver board is
displaying READY.
Before Installing the Satellite Terminal
The APM4AM-SAT WS uses SkyWave D+ Network Services to transmit
data and alarm packets from the field to the website account. Test the
satellite terminal to verify communications with the SkyWave satellite
before you install the satellite terminal in the field. Perform the test in the
same location you plan to install the satellite terminal.
The location you plan to install the satellite terminal should provide a
clear path to the satellite. The path should be clear of all obstructions
such as buildings, trees, and hills. The satellite terminal should be located
at least 6-½feet from any object taller than 1-¾feet.
The satellite terminal should be pointed at approximately a 20 degree
angle above the southern horizon (for installations within the United
States).
For more information about the SkyWave network services, visit the
following websites:
http://www.inmarsat.com
http://www.skywave.com
Determining the Satellite Look Angle
This section applies to installations outside the United States and
explains how to determine the correct satellite look angle (azimuth and
elevation coordinates) for the location where you plan to install the
satellite terminal. If you plan to install the unit in the United States, skip
this section and continue with the next section.
Complete the following steps to find a satellite look angle:
1. Open a browser window, and navigate to the following website:
http://www.bullhornsys.com/maps/skywave.htm
2. Move your mouse over the location you plan to install the unit.

6 Chapter 1. Installation
Look angle coordinates display under the cross hair cursor. The
azimuth and elevation angle display under each satellite that
provides coverage. A green colored satellite indicates good
coverage, yellow indicates coverage but at a low elevation angle, and
gray indicates no coverage.
3. Record the look angle coordinates. When you are ready to install
the unit in the field, use the coordinates when completing the
procedure in the next section.
Confirming the Satellite Look Angle
Use the following procedure at the location you plan to install the satellite
terminal. This procedure will help confirm communication with the
satellite before you actually install the equipment.
Complete the following steps to confirm the satellite look angle:
1. Place the battery near the unit and then open the enclosure.
2. Connect the battery cable in the Battery connector on the
controller board. For location of the Battery connector, refer to
Figure 1-8 on page 11.
3. For locations outside the United States, locate the satellite using a
compass and the look angle coordinates recorded earlier in the
previous section. Locate the satellite from the same location you
plan to install the satellite terminal.
4. Connect one end of the satellite terminal interface cable in the
connector on the bottom of the satellite terminal. Connect the
other end of the cable in the Radio connector on the controller
board of the unit.
5. Point the satellite terminal in the direction of the satellite making
sure it has a clear, line-of-sight and the path is clear of all
obstructions. If the installation is in the United States, point the
satellite terminal in a southeast direction, approximately 20 degrees
above the southern horizon.
6. Press the push button on the controller board for about 2 seconds
to perform a satellite signal test.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 7
The unit begins beeping slowly, and the activity indicators (red and
green LEDs) turn on. Slow beeps indicate a weak satellite signal.
Faster beeps indicate a stronger satellite signal. If the unit continues
beeping slowly for several minutes, adjust the location of the
satellite terminal to locate a stronger satellite signal. To end the test
and stop the unit from beeping, press the push button again for at
least 2 seconds.
7. After determining the correct position to install the satellite
terminal, disconnect wiring from the satellite terminal and then
disconnect the battery connector from the controller board. These
items are reconnected later.
A successful look angle does not necessarily mean reliable satellite
coverage. Footprint anomalies and intermittent obstacles on the
horizon can cause satellite communications failure. Low look
angles (less than 15 degrees elevation) may also be subject to fading
due to rain, snow, clouds, and other weather conditions. Every
attempt has been made to ensure the highest level of system
availability and reliability. However, the previously mentioned
factors may have an impact on the provided service.
Installing the APM4AM-SAT WS
Install the following items first and then complete the remainder of the
installation while the unit acquires a communications link with the
satellite:
1. Use a hand drill and a metal, masonry, or wood drilling bit to
prepare the mounting surface for the enclosure.
2. If the installation kit does not include the optional mounting
bracket kit, complete the following steps:
a. Mount the enclosure using the mounting flanges on the back of
the enclosure.
b. Make sure the area around the enclosure provides enough
working space to easily open the enclosure when performing
routine maintenance or configuring the unit for service.
3. If the installation kit includes the optional mounting bracket kit,
complete the following steps:
a. Use a slotted screwdriver to loosen four (4) screws securing the
mounting flanges on the back of the enclosure (Figure 1-3).
Remove the mounting flanges.

8 Chapter 1. Installation
Figure 1-3. APM4AM-SAT WS Enclosure (Back View)
b. Install the mounting brackets (Figure 1-4) on the back of the
enclosure using the provided hardware.
Figure 1-4. Optional Mounting Bracket
c. Mount the enclosure making sure the area around the enclosure
provides enough working space to easily open the enclosure
when performing routine maintenance or configuring the unit
for service.
4. Open the enclosure.
5. Assemble the satellite terminal, mounting bracket, and u-bolt:
a. Remove four (4) screws labeled Aand Bor Cand Dshown in
Figure 1-5.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 9
Figure 1-5. Removing the Satellite Terminal Screws
b. Install the satellite terminal on the mounting bracket as shown
in Figure 1-6 using four #6 x 5/8 plastic screws (provided).
Figure 1-6. Mounting Bracket and Satellite Terminal
c. Plug the mating connector on the interface cable in the
connector on the bottom of the satellite terminal. Apply non-
conductive silicone grease on the mating connector and then
wrap with waterproof sealing tape.
d. Create a strain relief for the interface cable using a tie wrap and
one of the mounting holes on the mounting bracket.

10 Chapter 1. Installation
e. Fasten the u-bolt and mounting bracket to the satellite terminal
mounting bracket using two ¼–20 nuts and split washers.
Tighten hardware using an adjustable wrench.
6. Install the adapter base on the satellite terminal mounting bracket
by routing the interface cable through the mounting hole on the
bracket and then using the lock nut to secure the terminal.
7. Install the satellite terminal assembly on the mounting surface
using the u-bolt. The satellite terminal must face in the direction of
the SkyWave satellite that is located southeast of the United States
(Figure 1-7).
IMPORTANT:The satellite terminal should not be installed in an
area where standing water may occur. The installation area should
provide a clear line of sight to the satellite with no obstructions
such as building, trees, or hills. The satellite terminal should be
facing in the direction of the SkyWave satellite that is located
southeast of the United States.
Figure 1-7. Typical Satellite Terminal Installation
8. Route the satellite terminal interface cable through the water-tight
fitting on the bottom of the APM4AM-SAT WS enclosure.
Connect the interface cable in the connector labeled Radio on the
controller board.
9. Press the push button on the controller board of the unit for about
2 seconds to perform a satellite signal test.
The unit begins beeping slowly when you initiate a satellite signal
test. To end the test, press the push button again for at least 2
seconds.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 11
10. Connect the battery cable to the battery. Connect the battery
connector to the connection labeled Battery on the controller
board (Figure 1-8).
Figure 1-8. Config Port, Satellite Terminal, Charger, and
Battery Connections
11. Connect the configuration cable in an available RS232 serial port
on your computer. Connect the other end of the cable in the
Config port on the controller board (Figure 1-8).
12. Start the UCT software. When the Find Devices window displays,
select the type of unit you are working with.
After selecting the unit, the configuration software begins to
initialize. A status bar at the bottom of the main configuration
window displays the progress of the initialization process. If the
battery voltage is too low for normal operations, the status bar will
freeze and the initialization process will not continue. You will need
to either recharge or replace the battery to continue.
13. After the main configuration window displays, click the Auto
Update option box in the Communications box.
14. Configuration procedures are described in Chapter 2.

12 Chapter 1. Installation
Installing the AC Battery Charger
Complete the following steps to install the AC battery charger:
1. Attach the battery charger cable to the AC battery charger
terminals.
2. Route the battery charger cable through the water-tight fitting on
the bottom of the APM4AM-SAT WS unit.
3. Connect the battery charge cable to the controller board in the slot
labeled Charger (see Figure 1-8 on page 11).
4. Plug the AC battery charger in a 120 VAC power outlet.
N OTE : While the charger in is charging mode, the a red LED light
displays. Once the battery is charged for use (“float” charge is
operating), the green LED light displays.
Bullhorn Information Line
The Bullhorn Information Line is an automated attendant telephone
system. It is typically used when installing units in the field. The system
identifies when the last data transmission (or test packet) was received on
the website account for a unit you specify.
Complete the following steps to use the Bullhorn Information Line:
1. Call the Bullhorn Information Line at 512-249-4646.
2. Press 1to access the packet log when prompted by the auto-
attendant.
3. Use your telephone keypad to enter the unit serial number when
prompted by the auto-attendant. The unit serial number is included
on the bar code label on the side of the unit. It is also included on
the label of the shipping carton.
4. If required, repeat this step to check another unit.

APM4AM-SAT WS Installation and Configuration Guide 13
Troubleshooting
If an alarm is received, be sure to check all conditions of the APM4AM-
SAT WS receiver, wireless transmitter, and sensors. If equipment appears
to be working normally, next check and/or change batteries in the
wireless transmitter and ensure that the path between receiver and
transmitter is clear from any obstructions.
Contacting Technical Support
If you need assistance with the installation or configuration, contact
American Innovations (AI) Technical Support:
Table 1-1. How To Contact Technical Support
Telephone:[phone]
Email:[email protected]
Mail:American Innovations, Ltd.
ATTN. FDD Technical Services
12211 Technology Blvd.
Austin, TX 78727
Fax:[phone]

14 Chapter 1. Installation