Applied Instruments XR-3 User manual

XR-3
Modular Test Instrument
Base Unit
Operation Manual
Revision 1.01
Date 01/04/2016
Purchase the MODEL XR-3™ MODULAR
TEST INSTRUMENT BASE UNIT
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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1.INTRODUCTION TO XR-3 MODULAR TEST INSTRUMENT .................................................. 3
STANDARD ACCESSORIES............................................................................................................................ 5
CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 6
DC CHARGE PORT....................................................................................................................................... 7
PC CONNECTION ......................................................................................................................................... 7
2.SOFTWARE UPDATES.................................................................................................................... 13
REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................................................... 13
INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................................... 13
UPDATING ................................................................................................................................................. 18
CHANNEL PLANS (APPLIES TO CATV /OFF-AIR MODULE ONLY).............................................................. 24
FIELD GUIDES (APPLIES TO SATELLITE MODULES ONLY) ........................................................................... 24
LIMIT VALUES (CURRENTLY APPLIES TO SATELLITE MODULES ONLY)....................................................... 25
POSTAL CODES (APPLIES TO SATELLITE MODULES ONLY) ......................................................................... 25
3.POWER............................................................................................................................................... 25
BATTERY CHARGE .................................................................................................................................... 25
AC POWER ................................................................................................................................................ 26
DC POWER ................................................................................................................................................ 26
4.TROUBLESHOOTING / FAQS ....................................................................................................... 26
5.REPLACEMENT PARTS & ACCESSORIES................................................................................ 27
6.MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS ................................................................................................... 27
7.SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 28
This manual covers basic operations and functions of the XR-3. For more detailed instructions on
how to use the instrument for different applications, see the Application Notes available on our
website, http://www.appliedin.com
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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1. Introduction to XR-3 Modular Test Instrument
The XR-3 is a revolutionary test instrument platform. The base unit is a rugged chassis, display,
and portable power supply that accepts easily swappable modules for testing a variety of signals
used in the telecommunications industry.
The XR-3 is economically efficient because it allows you to choose only the test modules that
your application requires. In the future as your testing needs change, you’ll need only a new
module, not an entire instrument.
Test modules that “slide and click” into the XR-3 available now include satellite (offerings for
North American DBS and VSAT and non-North American DTH applications), cable TV (analog
and digital QAM), and Off-Air broadcast (digital 8VSB and analog). Additional modules will follow.
The XR-3 platform is ideal for installers and private cable operators that demand fast, easy signal
measurements today and in the future.
GENERAL FEATURES
• Durable case with rubber shock guards
• Color graphic LCD screen, sunlight readable
• Glow-in-the-dark numeric keypad front panel
• Rechargeable / Easily Replaceable Li-Ion battery
• USB computer interface for firmware updates
• Operates while charging via AC
• Quick charge battery with universal AC or vehicle 12 VDC
• Modular design for longer life and more flexibility
• Accepts easily-swappable modules for several types of signal test applications
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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Symbols Used
The following symbols may be used in this manual and/or marked on the instrument.
Hazardous areas on the instrument are marked with this symbol. Consult this
manual to learn the nature of the hazard and proper actions for safe operation.
Indicates an earth ground terminal
Indicates possibility of electric shock
Indicates a protective conductor terminal
Indicates direct current (DC)
Safety Instructions
Read and follow all instructions in this manual.
Cleaning: Unplug and turn unit off before cleaning. Clean with a dry cloth only.
Use only the charger supplied with the unit or equivalent charger rated at 14V, 2.1A.
Use only the cord supplied with the charger or equivalent cord rated for at least 1A.
Servicing should be done by qualified service technicians only.
The beeper is quite loud so it can be heard outdoors over traffic noise. To avoid
hearing damage during prolonged use, protective earpieces are recommended.
Use of the instrument in a manner not consistent with the instructions in this manual
may impair the safety features and lead to damage or injury.
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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Standard Accessories
Accessories included with your XR-3:
• Quick Start Guide
• AC adapter and related line cord
• DC vehicle charge cord
• USB data transfer cable
• Cordura Protective Flap
• Shoulder Strap
• Signal splitter / combiner
• Desktop kickstand that props up meter for bench height use
Optional Accessories
Optional Accessories for the XR-3 include:
• Various snap-in modules for test signal applications
• Hard shell protective carrying case with foam padding molded for base instrument,
modules, and accessories
• Model NS-1 handheld broadband noise test signal generator (5 to 2150 MHz)
• Model PC-1 handheld CW single carrier test signal generator (one carrier from 5 to 180
MHz)
• Model PC-2 handheld CW dual carrier test signal generator (two carriers from 5 to 180
MHz)
• Model 5112 field portable CW multi-carrier test signal generator (up to six carriers from 5
MHz to 1 GHz).
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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Connections
1) Charge cord port for battery charger
AC charging via wall outlet (100-240VAC, 50-60 Hz Input and 15VDC output)
DC charging from 12VDC (at least 1 amp) vehicle outlet (cigarette adapter)
2) PC port - USB connection to PC for updating software and transferring files
3) Audible tone (speaker) port
4) Ethernet (option to be offered in future) port
5) Base-to-module connection port
FRONT
432
1
BACK
5
4
3
1
2
BOTTOM
1
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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DC Charge Port
The XR-3 connects to its external AC to DC switching power supply for charging its internal
battery from an AC outlet. The XR-3 can be used while connected to the AC/DC charger. The
XR-3 also connects to a 12VDC adapter in a vehicle only for battery charging.
PC Connection
The XR-3 connects to a USB port of a PC via the supplied cable. PC software is available for
download from our website (www.appliedin.com). The FlashUpdate program is used for updating
the instrument with the latest firmware and the MeterMaid program is used for transferring saved
scan files from the XR-3 to the PC.
Audible Tone Port
The XR-3 emits audible tones when:
• Instrument is powered on
• Buttons are pressed
• Scans are complete
• Digital signal locks are obtained
Ear protection is recommended if using the meter for prolonged periods with the sounder turned
on. The audible tone feature can be turned OFF in the Options menu, if so desired.
Base-to-Module Connection Port
The module connector has two functions:
Supplies voltage to power the module
Sends control signals and data between the module and base unit
Front Panel Buttons
1) Audible Tone
2) Screen Brightness
3) ON / OFF Power
4) Alphanumeric Keypad
5) Enter button
6) Arrow keys
7) Soft-keys (six)
5
6
3
2
1
4
7
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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XR-3 Construction
Parts of the XR-3:
1) Cordura protective flap
2) Flap axle
3) XR-3 instrument base
4) Module (swappable)
5) Thumb screw (tuner lock down screw) to secure module (x2)
6) Threaded cross dowel pin to secure module (x2)
7) Rubber shock guard (x2)
14 3
5
7
2
6
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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Battery Replacement
The XR-3 includes a replaceable Li-Ion rechargeable battery. When the battery wears out in the
future, battery replacement is simple.
Required Tools:
1x #2 Phillips screwdriver
1x Safety glasses
Estimated completion time: 5 +/- minutes, depending on mechanical aptitude and proficiency
Battery replacement procedure:
1) Wear safety glasses
2) Stand instrument upright on solid stable surface
3) Unfasten flap’s Velcro from rear of module body and fold flap downwards
4) Loosen (2) thumb screws until they fall out of the (2) threaded dowel pins on top of
instrument
5) Remove (2) threaded dowel pins by pushing them gently from the middle of the unit
outwards
6) Remove module by grasping the top, first pulling outwards and then upwards


7) Remove each rubber shock guard by gently pulling the top of each outwards. You will
notice that the plugs in the middle of each rubber shock guard will pop out of place as
you pull. Pull shock guards downward, taking care to slowly remove both rubber shock
guards from base unit while keeping the flap axle attached between them. Use caution
so that the flap axle doesn’t pop out and cause injury to an eye or other body part.
8) Place unit front panel down on a solid stable surface. It’s a good idea to place a towel or
other soft fabric under the unit to protect the display from getting scratched.
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XR-3 Base Instrument Operation Manual XR-3
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9) Use Phillips screwdriver to remove (6) screws from battery compartment lid
10) Pick lid upwards to remove it, taking care not to damage the gasket underneath
11) Pull up on foil tab of battery to lift battery out of compartment
12) Install new battery in compartment, taking care to properly align battery contacts and
leave the tab sticking up to aid in future battery replacement
13) Complete steps 1 to 12 in reverse order to close battery compartment and reassemble
instrument
14) After replacing the battery, you'll need to enter the Date and Time in the Option menu.
Your Options menu settings will return to the Pre-Set / default settings (i.e. for Level
value, Sounder, Shutdown, Key Beep, Sort Order, Display Theme), so you'll need to re-
customize those settings. You'll then need to select your Limits file and Channel Plan.
When saving scan files, you'll also need to re-enter the Technician and Location. This
applies to both the satellite and cable/off-air modules. If you had saved Favorites and
Tilts to a base channel plan, you'll also need to re-select those.
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