ASC Signal CPI 9.4M User manual

9.4M EARTH STATION
ANTENNA
Assembly, Installation, Operation
& Maintenance Manual
CPI Antenna Systems Division
USA
ASC Signal Corporation
1120 Jupiter Road Suite 102
Plano, Texas 75074
www.cpii.com/ascsignal
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Manual# OM94 – Revision M

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Copyright 2018 ASC Signal Corporation
All Rights Reserved. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means whether electronic, mechanical, or otherwise without
the prior written permission of ASC Signal Corporation.
ASC Signal Corporation reserves the right to change details in this publication without notice.
Trademark Notices
Any and all products and companies named herein are the trademarks of their respective creators and/or
owners.
Open Source Software Notice
This product makes extensive use of Open Source Software (OSS), including but not limited to the
operating system, network agents, user interface shells, and tools used to develop the software. This
software gives you the benefit of a large base of well-tested and feature-rich system software while lowering
the expense of providing these features to you. It also carries certain obligations.
Some of this software is licensed by the GNU General Public License (GPL), which requires that all
modifications or additions to the source code be kept public, and that the licensee continues to make the
source code covered public. None of this source code has been modified for use in this product. If you are
a user of this product who desires a copy of any source code covered by the GPL, contact our technical
support and we will provide this free of charge through an agreeable medium. We expect all source code
archives will be posted to public FTP servers. At the time of this writing, the exact address is not known. Be
advised that this is a large archive. We may recommend you obtain it from the source we obtained it from,
as the source may be using more recent versions. We will always supply it ourselves if you prefer.
Some of this software is licensed by the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL), which requires that
modifications be kept public but does not require proprietary source code linked to LGPL'ed libraries be
made public. None of this code has been modified for use in this product. All of the required source code
will be conveyed along with the code covered by the GPL above.
Some of this software is licensed by variations of the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) license, which
do not require us to pass on source code. Some of this software has been modified for use in this product.
However, in the spirit of open source, the original code will be supplied in the same manner as the code
covered by the GPL on request.
Please be advised that you will incur the same responsibilities we have incurred if you choose to redistribute
any or all of the source codes obtained through this method. Please read the included license documents
carefully.
If you have any questions about our interpretation of our obligations under OSS licenses, do not hesitate
to contact us. Our intent is to comply fully with all licensing obligations.
©ASC Signal Corporation
www.cpii.com/ascsignal

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REVISION HISTORY
REVISION LEVEL DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE
Rev. A Original Issue: June 2009
This is the original release of this manual.
Rev. B:
Updated Document
Rev. C:
Updated Document
Rev. D:
Updated Document
Rev. E:
Updated Document
Rev. F:
Updated Document
Rev. G:
Updated Document
Rev. H:
Updated Document
Rev. J: June 2016
Updated format.
Rev. K: May 2017
Change Trichloroethylene & Lacquer Thinner to Acetone
Rev. L: Aug 2018
Modify Table 4-2, added lube spec for El Jackscrew Gear Housing.
Spec for Az Gear Housing was MobilGear 629-12.8 liters (12mo. Freq.)
Rev. M: Oct 2018
Update wind loading information

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ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Purpose
The scope of this manual is intended to provide station personnel with the base installation, operation, and
maintenance requirements necessary for a 9.4-Meter C-, X-, or Ku-/Ka-Band Earth Station Antenna (9.4m
ESA). This manual provides a convenient reference for authorized operator/service personnel requiring
technical information on general system or specific subsystem equipment.
NOTE: All antenna option instructions are included in the individual kit shipped with that part.
Top Level Assembly Numbers are as follows:
ES94K-1: 9.4m ESA Ku- and K-Band. Motorizable Pedestal Mount with Az & El Jackscrews.
ES94KAA-1: 9.4m ESA Ka-Band. Nonmotorized/Partially Motorizable Pedestal Cap Mount with Pipes
Struts.
ES94MPEXKA-1: 9.4m ESA Ku-,K-, and Ka-Band. Motorizable Extended Azimuth Pedestal Mount with
Dual drive Az and Dual El Jackscrews.
WARNING: FOR DETAILED SAFETY INFORMATION, REFER TO THE NGC SAFETY GUIDELINES &
PERSONNEL RESTRICTIONS DOCUMENT PROVIDED WITH THE NGC DOCUMENTATION
PACKAGE.
Installation Notice
Installation, maintenance, or removal of the hardware described in this manual requires qualified and
experienced personnel. ASC Signal installation instructions are written for such personnel. Qualified
personnel MUST perform proper installation and maintenance of the equipment, and MUST verify the
condition of the equipment at initial installation and periodically thereafter.
NOTE: ASC Signal is NOT liable or responsible for results of improper or unsafe installation and
maintenance practices. All designs, specifications, and availability of products are subject to
change without notice.
What to Know When You See OPTION:
Any time you see OPTION: this means that the information following it is related to an optional element (in
either hardware or software) that may or may not apply to the arrangement of your particular NGC Unit.
Please note that if you see an option that you do not have but would like to purchase, please contact ASC
Signal.
Overview
The installation, operation, and maintenance of the 9.4m ESA require qualified and experienced personnel.
ASC Signal installation, operation, and maintenance instructions are illustrated for such personnel.
Additionally, the antenna should be inspected by qualified personnel to verify proper installation,
maintenance, and condition of equipment as described in Preventive Maintenance. The basic equipment
and accessories are either manufactured or design controlled by ASC Signal Corporation.

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The prerequisite information necessary for the 9.4m ESA can be found in this section. Furthermore, this
section should be reviewed before performing the installation, operation, or maintenance. Warnings,
recommended tools, and the antenna parts can be verified and/or determined with such a review.
General Product Description
The 9.4m ESA provides high gain and exceptional pattern characteristics. The electrical performance and
exceptional versatility provides the ability to configure the antenna with your choice of combining network.
That versatility is provided at the time of initial purchase, as well as in the future, as your satellite
communication requirements evolve.
The aluminum reflector is precision formed for accuracy and strength, requiring minimal assembly. The
reflector assembly is 31-feet (9.4-meters) in diameter and segmented in a twenty panel configuration to
reduce shipping volume and facilitate transport to remote sites. Reflector panels are conversion coated and
painted with a flat white paint.
The versatile pedestal mount can be purchased with motorizable capabilities. The pedestal mount features
over 180° Azimuth coverage in continuous 120° overlapping ranges and executes 90° (0-90°) continuous
Elevation adjustment. This large adjustment range provides non-critical foundation orientation and the
ability to view geostationary satellites from horizon-to-horizon, from any location worldwide.
The motorizable pedestal mount features self-aligning bearings for the Elevation pivots, resulting in "zero"
backlash. This mount can be operated manually, but has the ability to be upgraded for motorized operation,
including step-tracking or SmarTrack®applications. The Az/El jackscrews are equipped for integration with
the optional motor drive systems. A cross-axis grounding kit is supplied with each mount to ensure electrical
interconnectivity of the complete structure.
ES94MPEXKA-1
The 9.4 m Earth Station Antenna provides high gain and exceptional radiation pattern characteristics. The
outstanding electrical performance and versatility provides the ability to configure the antenna with your
choice of combining network.
The 9.4 m antenna has incorporated Subreflector Tracking (SRT) to continuously maintain the antenna
pointed at the satellite. This is also controlled by a microprocessor.
The aluminum reflector is precision formed for accuracy and strength, requiring minimal assembly time.
The reflector assembly is 9.4 meters (31 feet) in diameter and segmented in a 20-piece configuration to
reduce shipping volume and facilitate transport to remote sites. Reflector panels are conversion converted
and coated with a flat white paint.
The versatile extended azimuth pedestal mount is provided with motorizable Elevation and Azimuth
capabilities. The pedestal mount features over 220° continuous Azimuth coverage, and executes 0° - 90°
continuous Elevation adjustment. This large adjustment range provides the ability to view geostationary
satellites from almost any location worldwide. The Azimuth drive consists of dual high stiffness gear motors
driving a four point contact azimuth bearing with integral 130 tooth involute gear cut in the outer race. The
dual azimuth drives are torque biased to eliminate backlash. The Elevation axis has dual 20-ton, anti-
backlash jack screws mechanically linked to a single elevation drive motor.
The aluminum enclosure and hot-dipped galvanized steel mount maintain pointing accuracy and ensure
durability and reliability. The antenna and standard manual mount with enclosure will survive 125 mph (200
km/h) wind, in any position of operation, without sustaining damage or permanent deformation in moderate
coastal/industrial areas. Severe conditions require additional protection.

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ASC Signal Corporation provides complete system engineering, if required.
Parts Verification
ASC Signal Corporation thoroughly inspects and carefully packs all equipment before shipment. If you find
that there are missing or damaged components, please refer to the step-by-step instructions (located in
back of this manual) on how to properly report equipment loss or damage. When you have received your
order, verify that all parts contained in the shipment correspond to the parts listed on your packing
slip/inventory.
Safety Terms Summary
The following safety terms may appear on this product:
DANGER – INDICATES AN IMMEDIATELY ACCESSIBLE INJURY HAZARD IS PRESENT AS YOU
READ THE MARKING AND FAILURE TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF LIFE.
WARNING – INDICATES A NEARBY INJURY HAZARD THAT IS NOT IMMEDIATELY ACCESSIBLE
AS YOU READ THE MARKINGS AND FAILURE TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR LOSS OF LIFE.
CAUTION – INDICATES A POTENTIAL HAZARD TO PROPERTY, INCLUDING THE PRODUCT.
KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS: Personnel must observe all applicable safety regulations at all times.
Ensure power is disconnected or removed from the unit BEFORE replacing any components. Potential
hazards may exist even though the power control switch is in the OFF position. Capacitors retain electrical
charges. Always REMOVE POWER & use test equipment to confirm a circuit is at ground potential
BEFORE touching it. NEVER reach into or enter an enclosure to service or adjust the equipment until the
absence of power has been confirmed.
DO NOT SERVICE OR ADJUST ALONE: Under NO circumstances should ANY person reach into or enter
the enclosure for the purpose of servicing or adjusting the equipment except in the presence of someone
who is capable of rendering aid in case of an accident/emergency.
RESUSCITATION: Personnel working with or near high voltage should be familiar with resuscitation
methods (CPR and/or AED). CPR information may be obtained from medical personnel. For AED
(Automated External Defibrillator) information, contact the supervisor or hosting administration for details
on the availability and/or location of an AED unit at your worksite.
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE PRECAUTION: This equipment contains electrostatic discharge (ESD)
sensitive devices. ESD sensitive equipment handling methods must be used to prevent equipment damage
during handling and servicing.
ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: Refer to Essential Health and Safety
Requirements (Document Number 240117).
POWER CYCLING: Power cycling should not be attempted without a 1 minute minimum “off” period prior
to reapplication of power to allow electronics to discharge to a reasonable level. Failure to observe this rule
may result in some or all electronics not re-starting correctly. Any critical use electronics subject to power
loss, brown out, voltage spikes, or other undesirable input power conditions should be placed on Technical
Power (refer to ASC Signal Document Number AE03U-A0608 for motorization and control systems and
ASC Signal Document Number 7535794 for environmental systems and accessories). Consider placing
Technical Power on an uninterruptible power system (UPS) in the event power cycling does not meet this
requirement due to undesirable input power conditions.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1Recommended Tools & Foundation Preparation .................................................................................. 1
1.1 Recommended Tools .................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 A-325 Tensioning Procedure ........................................................................................................ 2
1.3 Foundation Preparation................................................................................................................. 4
1.4 9.4m Assembly & Installation Reference Drawings ...................................................................... 4
2Mount & Antenna Assembly Procedures ............................................................................................... 5
2.1 Assembly Sequence & Helpful Tips.............................................................................................. 5
2.2 General Subreflector Alignment Guidelines.................................................................................. 6
3Operation ............................................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Acquiring Satellites........................................................................................................................ 6
3.2 Subreflector Adjustment.............................................................................................................. 10
4Preventive Maintenance ...................................................................................................................... 11
4.1 General Cleaning ........................................................................................................................ 11
4.1.1 Electrical Parts ........................................................................................................................ 11
4.1.2 Mechanical parts ..................................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Inspections .................................................................................................................................. 12
4.2.1 Local Control/Motor Drive Controller Inspection ..................................................................... 12
4.2.2 Antenna Inspection ................................................................................................................. 12
4.2.3 Drive System Voltage & Current Checks ................................................................................ 14
4.3 Preservation & Lubrication of Component Parts......................................................................... 14
4.3.1 Preservation of Aluminum Parts.............................................................................................. 14
4.3.2 Preservation of Galvanized Surfaces...................................................................................... 14
4.3.3 Lubrication............................................................................................................................... 15
4.3.4 Lubrication of Jackscrews/Motors ........................................................................................... 15
4.3.5 Lubrication of Gear Motor/Housing Fill Drain Requirements .................................................. 15
4.4 Site Acceptance Test Procedure................................................................................................. 19
5Corrective Maintenance & Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 19
5.1 Top 5 ESA Maintenance & Troubleshooting FAQ ...................................................................... 19
5.2 Corrective Painting Instructions .................................................................................................. 19
5.2.1 Preparatory Cleaning of Aluminum Surfaces.......................................................................... 20
5.2.2 Priming Cleaned Aluminum Surfaces ..................................................................................... 20
5.2.3 Painting Primed Aluminum Surfaces....................................................................................... 20
5.2.4 Prepping & Painting Galvanized Surfaces .............................................................................. 20
5.2.5 Priming & Painting Cleaned Jack Surfaces ............................................................................ 20

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5.3 Removing Backlash via Jack Adjustment ................................................................................... 21
5.4 Maintenance Kits......................................................................................................................... 22
APPENDIX: Equipment Issues & Technical Support.................................................................................. 23
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1-1: Bolts Shorter than 4 Diameters .................................................................................................. 3
Figure 1-2: Bolts Longer than 4 Diameters ................................................................................................... 3
Figure 1-3: Scraping Foundation Pads ......................................................................................................... 4
Figure 3-1: Pure Noise Signal on Spectrum Analyzer .................................................................................. 7
Figure 3-2: Minimum Transponder Signal on Spectrum Analyzer ................................................................ 7
Figure 3-3: Antenna Radiation Pattern Topographical Diagram with Plan View .......................................... 8
Figure 3-4: Polarization at 45 Degrees from Optimum Setting ..................................................................... 9
Figure 3-5: Maximizing Odd Transponders................................................................................................. 10
Figure 3-6: Optimum Polarization Settings ................................................................................................. 10
Figure 4-1: Variable Speed Antenna Lubrication Points ............................................................................. 17
Figure 4-2: Lubrication Points for Antenna (ES94MPEXKA-1)................................................................... 18
Figure 5-1: Jac/Jack Anti-Backlash Procedure ........................................................................................... 22
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1-1: Recommended Tools................................................................................................................... 1
Table 1-2: 9.4M Assembly & Installation Drawings/Instructions ................................................................... 4
Table 4-1: Lubrication Chart........................................................................................................................ 15
Table 4-2: Lubrication Chart (ES94MPEXKA-1) ......................................................................................... 18
Table 5-1: Cure Times ................................................................................................................................ 21
Table 5-2: Maintenance Kits ....................................................................................................................... 22

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1 RECOMMENDED TOOLS & FOUNDATION PREPARATION
The following sections offer information related to preparing to assemble/install the 9.4m ESA, such as
recommended tools, foundation preparation and the details of the A-325 tensioning procedure required for
the tightening of all A-325 hardware.
1.1 RECOMMENDED TOOLS
ASC Signal supplies all appropriate hardware/parts required for installation of the 9.4m ESA. All tools
needed for installation, however, should be provided by the installation crew. ASC Signal recommends the
following tools (Table 1-1) be used for installation of the 9.4m ESA:
NOTE: The tools listed in the below table are subject to change without notice. Consult assembly
instruction documents, drawings, and/or ASC Signal Tech Support for confirmation.
Table 1-1: Recommended Tools
TOOL SIZE QUANTITY
Open End or Combination Wrenches
7/16 Inch
9/16 Inch
7/8 Inch
3/4 Inch
1/2 Inch
1-1/16 Inch
1-1/4 Inch
1-1/2 Inch
1-3/4 Inch
2 Inch
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Crane
15 Ton Minimum Capacity, extended end
1
3/8” Diameter Nylon Choker
6 Foot
3 Foot
1
1
1/2" Diameter Choker
16 Foot
4
Shackles
5/8 Inch
4
Ladders
25 Foot Extension Ladder
12 Foot Stepladder
2
2
Puller Hoist
1 Ton
1
Hex Bit Socket
1/2 Inch
1
Drive Sockets
7/16 Inch
1/2 Inch
3/4 Inch
7/8 Inch
1-1/16 Inch
1-1/4 Inch
1-1/2 Inch
1-3/4 Inch
2 Inch Deep, 1 Inch Drive
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Calibrated Torque Wrench
250 ft-lbs
1
4x Torque Multiplier
1 Inch Drive
1
Adjustable Wrench
8 Inch
1
Spud Wrench
1-1/4 Inch
1

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Drive Ratchets
1/2 Inch
1 Inch
2
2
Drive Extension
1/2 Inch
2
Screwdriver
Slotted
2
Allen Wrenches
5/32 Hex Socket
5/16 Inch
3/16 Inch
1/4 Inch
5/32 Inch
1/2 Inch
1
4
4
4
4
4
Portable Drill
Electric
1
Tape Measure (or similar measuring
device)
25 Foot
1
Felt-tip Marker (or equivalent)
Standard
1
Hammer
Standard
1
Rubber Mallet
Standard
1
Pry Bar
Standard
1
Tin Snips
Standard
1
Safety Gloves (per installer)
Standard
1
Wax Stick
Standard
1 (supplied)
Tag Lines
20 Foot
4
Temporary Wood Support Lumber
2 x 4 x 8 Foot
4
Temporary Wood Support Blocks
4
1.2 A-325 TENSIONING PROCEDURE
Throughout the installation instructions set forth in this manual, there may be references to the A-325
hardware tensioning procedure. A-325 hardware must be properly tensioned to avoid slippage between
bolted surfaces under high loads. Slippage can cause the corresponding assembly to move or slip, resulting
in antenna misalignment. Use of A-325 hardware eliminates slippage between mating surfaces under high-
loading conditions as well as the need for future retightening.
NOTE: A-325 tensioning is for final connections only. Never loosen or reuse A-325 hardware.
Points to Keep in Mind:
•“Snug tight” is defined as tightness when plies of joint are in firm contact.
•Do not proceed with felt-tip marker or tightening unless connection is final and will not be loosened
again.
•If after tensioning procedure the bolts are loose, discard them and replace with new hardware.
•Do not use A-325 tensioning unless specifically called for by installation instructions.

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Figure 1-1: Bolts Shorter than 4 Diameters
Figure 1-2: Bolts Longer than 4 Diameters
A-325 hardware should be tightened according to the following tensioning procedure:
1. Lubricate the bolts with provided wax stick to reduce friction.
2. Insert the bolt and add flat washer (if required). Do not allow wax to get under flat washer.
3. Add the nut, and tighten with your fingers.
4. After all connections are complete, tighten the bolts until surfaces are joined and nuts are snug (as
achieved by the full effort of a single person using a standard spud wrench).
5. Using a felt-tip marker, mark the nuts and ends of the bolts with a straight line as shown above in
Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2.
6. Tighten nuts even further, using an extra-long-handled wrench, until the nuts are:
Moved 1/3 turn (120°) as shown in Figure 1-1 (“After Tensioning”)
Or
Moved 1/2 turn (180°) as shown in Figure 1-2 (“After Tensioning”)
NOTE: If A-325 bolts are loosened after Steps 5 and/or 6, discard and replace with new hardware

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1.3 FOUNDATION PREPARATION
Before beginning the installation process on the ground mount assembly, ensure that the foundation has
been prepared. Foundation specifications are provided by ASC Signal and may be used as a reference by
civil engineering personnel when preparing the foundation for local soil conditions. These specifications are
available before the shipment arrives by contacting the Customer Service Center or your Account Manager.
•Sweep foundation clear of any dirt or debris
•To ensure smooth surface for mount, scrape foundation pads as shown in Figure 1-3
•Apply stick wax to stud threads to ease later connections
Figure 1-3: Scraping Foundation Pads
1.4 9.4M ASSEMBLY & INSTALLATION REFERENCE DRAWINGS
This section provides the ASC Signal document numbers of all the necessary instructions, drawings, and
schematics for the assembly of the 9.4m Antenna Reflector. As assembly and installation procedures are
performed, be sure to refer to the appropriate documents, instructions, and/or drawings.
NOTE: Refer to the About This Manual section for Top Level Assembly Numbers, if necessary.
Table 1-2: 9.4M Assembly & Installation Drawings/Instructions
Item
ES94K-1
ES94KAA-1
ES94MPEXKA-1
Foundation Drawing
237742
7589602
7586797
Theodolite & Alignment
240379
240379
240379
Feed Rotation Drive Installation
239954
239954
239954
9.4m Enclosure Door Assembly
303407
7587304
7587304
9.4m Pedestal Assembly Installation Instructions
175340
7588858
7585152/7585990
9.4m Handwheel Installation
240377
N/A
N/A
9.4m Reflector Installation Instructions
303267
7585328
7585328
Subreflector & Strut Installation
303272
N/A
N/A
Temporary Strut Installation
240371
N/A
N/A
Feed Support Installation
240388
240388
240388
Azimuth Jackscrew Assembly Instructions
175322
N/A
N/A
Azimuth Jackscrew Assembly
175344
N/A
N/A
Feed Thru Plate Kit Installation Instructions
240437
240437
240437

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9.4m Feed Support
240388
240388
240388
SRT Installation
N/A
7585115
7585115
Pattern Optimization Procedure
SP50011
SP50011
SP50011
2 MOUNT & ANTENNA ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES
This chapter provides the basic sequence and tips for the assembly of various elements of the 9.4m ESA.
Appropriate drawings and schematics references for assembly of the antenna are also provided, when
applicable. Refer to the drawings, instructions, and schematics for the specific system being installed, per
the information provided in Table 1.2.
2.1 ASSEMBLY SEQUENCE & HELPFUL TIPS
ASC Signal recommends following these helpful tips regarding the sequence of assembly:
•Always use the correct provided hardware and use the appropriate sequence for tightening/torque,
as per the instructions provided with the part or kit being assembled and/or installed (as listed in
Table 1.2).
•As a rule, never fully tighten A-325 type hardware (see Section 1.2) unless instructed to do so by
instructions. Once tightened, A-325 cannot be loosened. If loosened, it must be replaced with new
A-325 hardware.
•The Mount should be assembled at ground level before beginning any hoisting with crane.
•The Reflector & Back Structure should be assembled at ground level before beginning any hoisting
with crane.
•Theodolite Alignment should be performed at ground level before beginning any hoisting with
crane.
•During assembly of the Azimuth Jackscrew, ensure that the Azimuth Jackscrew assembly is in the
fully retracted position.
•During hoisting (with crane) of the Motor/Jack Assembly, do NOT attach any ropes to the Small
Motor.
•Always attach hoisting ropes in such a way that moving parts will not drop/rotate when lifted.
•Realignment of the Panning Frame/Pivot Assembly may be necessary to ensure proper alignment
of the Azimuth Jackscrew pin. Make snug the Panning Frame/Pivot Assembly hardware and fully
extend the Azimuth Jackscrew so that binding does not occur along the full range of the Azimuth
Pivot.
The following steps represent the recommended (but not required) basic sequence of assembly for this
antenna:
NOTE: More steps may be required, in addition to those listed below, depending on the antenna
type and/or the presence of particular options. Refer to Table 1.2 to locate document numbers for
the system being installed. Such documents will be provided in the shipment of each part, kit, and/or
option.
•Pedestal Assembly
•Reflector & Back Structure Assembly
•Theodolite & Alignment
•Feed Rotation Drive Installation
•Subreflector Assembly & Installation

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2.2 GENERAL SUBREFLECTOR ALIGNMENT GUIDELINES
The primary goal of Subreflector alignment is for the Subreflector to be properly centered and for the height
to be adjusted to the correct focal length for the antenna.
Keep the following guidelines in mind during Subreflector alignment:
•A tape measure is generally used in order to center the Subreflector
•Measure from a repeatable location, running the tape measure from the 4 locations where the strut
ends meet the main reflector to the inside edge of the Subreflector
•For centering measurements, a zero delta between all is ideal
•Focal length is measured from the antenna vertex to the edge of the Subreflector at the three
Adjustment Rod locations on the Subreflector
•Target focal length distance is determined by antenna type
•Normally, the process of centering the Subreflector then the Subreflector height is repeated until
both centering and height are “nuts on” precise
3 OPERATION
After completing the assembly of the antenna, the 9.4m ESA is ready to become operational. To operate
the 9.4m ESA, it is necessary to direct it to the desired satellite and adjust both Elevation and Azimuth
angles appropriately. These procedures provide details on how to correctly position the antenna on a
desired satellite.
NOTE: If intending to use an ASC Signal NGC Indoor Unit (NGC-IDU) or NGC Outdoor Unit (NGC-
ODU) in order to control antenna, it is best to refer to the appropriate manuals of the NGC
Documentation Package received with that unit.
3.1 ACQUIRING SATELLITES
There are a number of possible procedures for acquiring a satellite. ASC Signal recommends that a
Spectrum Analyzer of some type be used, regardless of your chosen procedure.
While viewing any Spectrum Analyzer screen, a pure noise signal will likely be observed, as shown below
in Figure 3-1. Additionally, some transponder signals may be observed above the noise signal, as shown
below in Figure 3-2.

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Figure 3-1: Pure Noise Signal on Spectrum Analyzer
Figure 3-2: Minimum Transponder Signal on Spectrum Analyzer

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MAINTENANCE MANUAL
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OM94 Revision M Page 8
Use the following steps in order to acquire a satellite:
Step 1 of 9: Manually move the antenna in the Azimuth direction (scanning back-and-forth) to achieve a
maximum transponder signal with the greatest amplitude
•Scan in one direction until amplitude continues to diminish, and then scan in opposite direction until
the same occurs
•Return to the position yielding the greatest amplitude
•The maximum Azimuth excursion from the original setting should not exceed +/- 1.5 Degrees, or
the antenna may begin to access a different satellite than the one desired.
Step 2 of 9: With the antenna positioned in Azimuth, with the transponder signal maximized, follow the
same procedure as in Step 1, only this time using the Elevation direction (scanning up-and-down). Once
again, do this until the transponder signal has been maximized.
Step 3 of 9: Repeat this procedure, alternating between the Azimuth and Elevation excursions of the
antenna, until you have peaked the antenna transponder amplitude.
•Transponder signal amplitude of 30 dB or greater from peak to average noise signal indicates that
the antenna is receiving the signal on the main beam.
•Transponder signal amplitude of less than 30 dB indicates the antenna is peaking on a side lobe
of the main beam.
Step 4 of 9: If the antenna is peaked on a side lobe in Az or El, move the antenna Azimuth while observing
the Spectrum Analyzer screen, as illustrated below in Figure 3-3.
Figure 3-3: Antenna Radiation Pattern Topographical Diagram with Plan View

ASSEMBLY, INSTALLATION, OPERATION &
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
9.4M Earth Station Antenna
OM94 Revision M Page 9
Step 5 of 9: If the signal amplitude diminishes and does not increase (position B) to the level that was noted
when the antenna was peaked on a side lobe, then this means that the antenna is moving away from the
main beam. Reverse the direction of antenna movement.
•From the original side lobe position (Position A), the signal amplitude should now diminish to a null
point at Position C (minimum amplitude showing only signal noise) and then symmetrically increase
again to the same level at Position D as noted at Position A
•At the null point (Position C), the antenna is aligned with the alternate (El) axis. If antenna was
peaked on a side lobe in Azimuth, it was appropriately aligned with the El axis (go to Step 6).
•If the antenna was peaked on a side lobe in Elevation, it was appropriately aligned with the Az axis
(go to Step 6, moving the antenna in Azimuth rather than Elevation).
Step 6 of 9: Move the antenna in Elevation while observing the Spectrum Analyzer screen. If the signal
amplitude increases, then decreases, and then increases again (but to a lesser value than the first
increase), this means the antenna is moving in the wrong direction. Reverse direction of antenna
movement.
•From the original null point, the signal level should increase and decrease alternately, but with
increasing amplitude until the transponder signal increases to a level of at least 30 dB, at which
time it will be on the main beam. Continue to manually peak the signal to a maximum level, using
Azimuth and Elevation adjustments.
Step 7 of 9: If antenna is aligned in Azimuth and Elevation (signal maximized) and a total of 24 transponder
signals of relatively equal amplitude are NOT noted (12 horizontal + 12 vertical = 24), the Polarization
adjustment is set incorrectly and must be modified. If 12 transponder signals are noted, they may or may
not be the properly polarized signals. Therefore, 24 transponder signals must be visually noted in order to
determine the proper Polarization setting.
Step 8 of 9: Rotate the feed assembly clockwise until 24 transponder signals are noted and of approximately
equal amplitude.
NOTE: It is more accurate and visually simple to minimize alternate set of transponder signals rather
than maximizing the transponder of interest.
Figure 3-4: Polarization at 45 Degrees from Optimum Setting

ASSEMBLY, INSTALLATION, OPERATION &
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
9.4M Earth Station Antenna
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Step 9 of 9: With all 24 transponder signals of approximately equal amplitude appearing on the Spectrum
Analyzer screen, determine the specific antenna system and satellite parameters. Rotate the feed assembly
as required until the appropriate (odd or even) transponder signals have been maximized.
Figure 3-5: Maximizing Odd Transponders
Figure 3-6: Optimum Polarization Settings
3.2 SUBREFLECTOR ADJUSTMENT
Refer to ASC Signal Special Publication (Document # SP50011).

ASSEMBLY, INSTALLATION, OPERATION &
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
9.4M Earth Station Antenna
OM94 Revision M Page 11
4 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
This chapter contains periodic preventative maintenance instructions for the 9.4m Earth Station Antenna.
Included are instructions for performing inspections, preventative maintenance procedures, and cleaning.
NOTE: Refer to applicable vendor manuals for any repair procedures that are not included in this
manual.
Regularly replacing normally functioning assemblies or components as a preventative measure is not
required. Malfunctions of this ESA can normally be traced to components and/or parts through the use of
troubleshooting procedures.
4.1 GENERAL CLEANING
To prevent excessive accumulation of dust and dirt, as well as to ensure the removal of various
contaminants, the equipment needs to be thoroughly cleaned. It is recommended that you clean the
antenna every time you conduct a visual inspection of the components. No special cleaning procedures are
required. However, to ensure trouble-free operation, you will need to clean in accordance with procedures
in Sections 4.1.1 & 4.1.2.
4.1.1 ELECTRICAL PARTS
CAUTION: CONFIRM ALL ELECTRICAL POWER IS REMOVED BEFORE PROCEEDING.
Minor cleaning, such as the removal of dust and loose foreign particles, can be accomplished by one or all
of the following methods:
•Vacuuming
•Using a soft-bristle brush or lint-free cloth
•Using an air compressor, with dry air at a LOW PRESSURE (between 5 and 25 psi), to blow out
dust and dirt
NOTE: When using air to clear contaminants, take extreme care when blowing air stream on or near
ANY delicate parts.
To remove imbedded dirt, grease, and/or oil from electrical parts:
•Use a 50% solution of Isopropyl “rubbing” alcohol
•Apply to surface with a soft-bristle brush
NOTE: At times, it may be necessary to brush some parts vigorously with a stiff bristle brush in
order to remove imbedded or hardened dirt particles.
NOTE: After cleaning, ALLOW CLEANED PARTS TO DRY FOR 10-15 MINUTES before restoring
power and/or returning equipment to operation.
4.1.2 MECHANICAL PARTS
Cleaning of mechanical parts begins by removing dust, dirt, and other loose contaminants with a scraper,
stiff-bristle brush (or wire brush in cases of rust or corrosion removal), lint-free cloth, or compressed air