ASTRO VARIO 561 F User manual

Version 01-2021A

Before operating the device
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 2
Before operating the device
NOTE: Read this operating manual through carefully!It
contains important information about installation, ambient
conditions and maintenance of the device. Keep this operating
manual for future use and for handover in the event of a
change of owner or operator. A PDF version of this manual can
be downloaded on the ASTRO website (there may be a more
recent version).
The ASTRO company confirms that the information in this
manual was correct at the time of printing, but it reserves the
right to make changes to the specifications, the operation of the
device and the operating manual without prior notice.

page 3
Contents
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Contents
Symbols and conventions used...........................................page 04
Intended use........................................................................page 05
Intended audience for this manual.......................................page 05
Device description...............................................................page 06
Important safety information................................................page 08
Information about supplying power remotely........................page 12
Warranty conditions.............................................................page 15
Performance description......................................................page 16
Disposal...............................................................................page 17
Installation...........................................................................page 17
Connection..........................................................................page 19
Configuring the forward path................................................page 20
Configuring the return path...................................................page21
Measurements.....................................................................page 22
Start-up................................................................................page 22
Troubleshooting...................................................................page 23
Maintenance and repair.......................................................page 23
Block diagram......................................................................page 24
Technical data.....................................................................page 25
Drilling distances..................................................................page 31

Symbols and conventions used
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 4
Symbols and conventions used
Symbols used in this manual
Pictograms are visual symbols with specific meanings. You will
encounter the following pictograms in this installation and operating
manual:
Warning about situations in which electrical voltage and non-obser-
vance of the instructions in this manual pose a risk of fatal injuries.
Warning about various dangers to health, the environment and
material.
Warning about thermal dangers due to hot surfaces.
Recycling symbol: indicates components or packaging materials
which can be recycled (cardboard, inserts, plastic film and bags).
Used batteries must be disposed of at approved recycling points.
Batteries must be completely discharged before disposal.
This symbol indicates components which must not be disposed of
with household rubbish.

page 5
Intended use
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Intended use
The VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F and 684 F amplifiers are universal
broadband amplifiers for bidirectional building distribution and
broadband communication systems. It is exclusively designed for
signal amplification in unidirectional and bidirectional distribution
systems in single-family and multi-family dwellings.
Modification of the devices or use for any other purpose is not
permitted and will immediately void any guarantee provided by the
manufacturer.
Intended audience for this manual
Installation, configuration and start-up
ASTRO amplifiers are intended to be installed and put into opera-
tion by qualified experts who have training which enables them to
perform the work required by EN 60728-11 and EN 62368-1.
Unqualified persons are not permitted to install and operate the
device.

Device description
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 6
Device description
The device packaging contains the following:
VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F and 684 F broadband amplifiers
0 dB pads for device configuration, inserted
2 zero cards of type VZ 1001, inserted
Zero card VZ 1006, inserted
8 fuses
Allen key 1.27 mm
Operating manual
[1] Power indicator
[2] Remote power supply socket
[3] Earth terminal
[4] Output 1
[5] Output 2
[6] Input
[7] Screw mount for housing
cover
Fig. 1: VARIO 684 F amplifier
NOTE: The connection adapters for the input and output
are not factory-installed. Please use the Allen key provided to
install the inner conductor of the connector. Instal-lation of
the sockets is described in the“Installation” section. The
connection adapters for the variant with order number 217
412 are available separately (see left):
PG 11 to F socket: Part number 790 511
PG 11 to IEC socket: Part number 790 512
PG 11 to 3.5/12'' socket: Part number 790 510

page 7
Device description
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
[1] Input equaliser
[2] Input inverse equaliser
[3] Input attenuation
[4] Output test socket
[5] Interstage equaliser
[6] Interstage attenuation
[7] Return path input attenuation
[8] Optional diplex filter
[9] Power supply unit cover
[10] Output test socket
[11] Power supply unit fuse
[12] Optional distributor
[13] Output 1 fuse
[14] Test socket
[15] Output 2 fuse
[16] Input fuse
[17] Optional return path ampli-
fier
[18] Optional diplex filter
[19] Input test socket
Fig. 2: VARIO 561 F PG11 amplifier, interior
The VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F and 684 F amplifiers have a CE
marking. This confirms that the products comply with the relevant
EC directives and adhere to the requirements specified therein.

Important safety information
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 8
Important safety information
To avoid any potential risks to the greatest extent possible, you
must observe the following safety information:
ATTENTION: Failure to observe this safety
information may result in physical injury due to electrical
and thermal dangers!
Intended use
Only use the device at approved operating sites and under
approved ambient conditions (as described in the following),
and only for the purpose described in the section “Proper use”.
Before operating the device
NOTE: Read this operating manual through carefully!It
contains important information about installation, ambient
conditions and maintenance of the device. Keep this operating
manual for future use and for handover in the event of a
change of owner or operator. A PDF version of this manual can
be downloaded on the ASTRO website (there may be a more
recent version).
Check the packaging and the device for transport damage
immediately. Do not operate a device that has been damaged.
Carrying the device by the power cable may damage the
power cable or the strain relief and is therefore not permitted.
Installation and operation
The device may only be installed and operated by qualified
persons (in accordance with EN 62368-1) or by persons who
have been instructed by qualified persons. Maintenance work
may only be carried out by qualified service personnel.
An installation site must be provided that prevents children
from playing with the device and its connections.
The electrical connection conditions must correspond to the
specifications on the device type plate.

page 9
Important safety information
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
To avoid damage due to overheating, the device may only be
installed on vertical surfaces. The connection for the power
supply unitmustpointto the right.Theinstallationbasisshould
be level and non-flammable. Operating position: Device
vertical, with power supply output on the right.
The permitted ambient temperatures specified in the technical
data must be complied with. If the device overheats, the insu-
lation used to insulate the mains voltage may be damaged.
The device and its cable may only be operated away from
radiant heat and other sources of heat.
To avoid trapped heat, ensure there is good ventilation on all
sides (minimum interval of 20 cm to other objects). Installing
the device in recesses or covering the installation location, for
example using curtains, is not permitted. Ventilation openings
must not be covered.
If the device is installed in a cabinet, ensure adequate air
convection is possible to avoid exceeding the maximum
permitted ambient temperature.
No objects may be placed on the device.
The subscriber network must be earthed in accordance with
EN 60728-11 and must remain earthed even when the device
isremoved.Inaddition,theearthconnectiononthedevicecan
be used. Devices within hand’s reach must also be integrated
into the potential
equalisation. Operating the device without an earth conductor,
without earthing the device or without equipotential bonding of
the device is not permitted.
The device does not feature protection against water and may
therefore only be operated and connected in dry rooms. The
device must not be exposed to spraying water, dripping water,
condensation or similar sources of moisture.
The electrical system supplying current to the device, such as
a building installation, must incorporate protective devices
against excessive currents, earth faults and short-circuits in
accordance with EN 62368-1.
Caution! Hot surface: Housing components near the cooling
fins at the rear or the cooling fins themselves may become
very hot. Do not touch these parts.
The power supply plug is used to disconnect the device from
the mains voltage for servicing and in the event of danger and
must therefore be accessible and in good working condition at
all times. The device is operational when connected to the
mains voltage.

Important safety information
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 10
Adhere to all applicable national safety regulations and stand-
ards.
Excessmechanicalloads(e.g.falling,impacts, vibrations)may
damage the insulation used to provide protection from the
mains voltage.
High excess currents (lightning strikes, surges in the power
utility grid) may damage the insulation used to provide protec-
tion from the mains voltage.
Ifthere isnoinformation abouttheintendeduse(e.g.operating
site, ambient conditions), or the operating manual does not
include the corresponding information, you must consult the
manufacturer of this device to ensure that the device may be
installed. If you do not receive the required information from
the manufacturer, do not operate the device.
In rooms in which the climatic conditions vary (e.g. due to
sunlight), the device may only be operated if the permissible
ambient temperature can be maintained.
Disconnect devices with a damaged power cable from the
mains (unplug the power supply plug).
Always use the supplied power adapter (power supply unit)
and connect it to a power point with a voltage within the range
specified in the “Technical data” section. Failure to observe
this warning may result in personal injury or equipment/prop-
erty damage.
Do not install the device in locations with excessive dust forma-
tion, as this may reduce the insulation from the mains voltage.
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
In order to avoid malfunctions when operating radio and telecom-
munications equipment, as well as other operating units or broad-
casting services, the following must be observed:
Before installation, make certain that you have checked the
device for mechanical damage. Do not use damaged or bent
covers or housings.
During operation, the device must always be covered by the
components provided for this purpose. It is not permitted to
operate the device when the cover is open.

page 11
Important safety information
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
The braided shielding or the spring contacts must not be
damaged or removed.
Maintenance
Thepowerindicatoronly showswhetherthe DCcurrent,which
supplies the device components, has been disconnected.
However, if power indicators (on the power supply unit or the
device) are not lit up, it is in no way an indication that the
device is completely disconnected from the mains. There may
still be voltage in the device that is dangerous to touch. There-
fore, do not open the device.
Readcarefully: EN60728-11– Part1,Safetyrequirements/No
service work during electrical storms!
Disconnect the mains plug before cleaning the device!
Repair
Repairs may only be performed by the manufacturer. Improp-
erly performed repairs may result in considerable dangers for
the user.
Do not operate devices with a damaged power cable. You
must have the cable repaired by the manufacturer.
If malfunctions occur, the device must be disconnected from
the mains and authorised experts must be consulted. The
device may need to be sent to the manufacturer.
General information
Store or use the device in a safe location, well out of reach of
small children. It may contain small parts that can be swal-
lowed or inhaled. Dispose of any small parts that are not
needed.
Plastic bags may have been used for packaging the device.
Keep these plastic bags away from babies and children to
avoid any danger of suffocation. Plastic bags are not toys.
Do not store the device near chemicals or in places in which
any leakage of chemicals may occur. In particular, organic
solvents or fluids may cause the housing and/or cables to melt
or disintegrate, presenting a danger of fire or electric shock.
They may also cause device malfunctions.
Do not connect the supplied mains adapter to any other prod-
ucts.

Information about supplying power remotely
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 12
Information about supplying power remotely
Remote power can be supplied in the following ways:
Via strain relief to a PCB terminal block (≤2.5 mm2) in the
power supply unit of the device, if a flat connector socket is not
available
Via a flat connector socket (6.3 x 0.8), if present
Via a coaxial input or output
Overview of the remote power supply:
Wire routing (remote power supply) via strain relief for devices
without a remote power supply socket
The external wires must be routed using round cable lines of the
minimum quality specified below in order for the strain relief to be
effective. After the cables have been connected, they must be ade-
quately secured using the screw cap from the strain relief, so that
an effective seal against environmental influences is also achieved.
When using F or K litz wires, make sure that no strands are split.
Split strands can lead to short circuits in the device and thus to dam-
age in the cable network.
Observe the installation conditions specified in EN60728 T11.
Minimum requirement for the cable types:
Round cable lines with a diameter of 5 - 8 mm, for example:
H03VV-F 2x 0.75 mm2, minimum diameter 5 mm
H03VV-U 2x 0.75 mm2, minimum diameter 5 mm
H03VV-K 2x 0.75 mm2, minimum diameter 5 mm
(F: flexible, U: rigid, K: finely stranded, fixed)

page 13
Information about supplying power remotely
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Remote power supply via the flat connector socket
The external wires must be routed using cable lines of the following
minimum quality:
H03V-F 0.75 mm2
H03V-U 0.75 mm2
H03V-K 0.75 mm2.
Observe the operating conditions specified in EN60728 T11.
Single conductors should be laid in such a way that they are pro-
tected and must not be subjected to tensile stresses during opera-
tion. The flat connector must be covered by external insulation
which is fully intact.
Remote power supply via the coaxial sockets
Remote power supply via coaxial inputs or outputs is only permitted
with appropriate connectors permanently mounted on the coaxial
cables. The cable cross-sections and operating conditions speci-
fied in EN60728-11 must be observed.
Precautionary measures during connection and use of fuses
The device chassis conducts GND and ground potential.
Devices with a flat connector socket:
The supply voltage is supplied using either the coaxial inputs or out-
puts or the device’s flat connector socket.
If power is supplied via the flat connector socket, the fuse in the
power supply unit must be inserted. The fuses in the HF section of
the device can be inserted according to the application.
If power is supplied via the coaxial connectors, the corresponding
remote supply fuse in the power supply unit must be removed, as
the remote supply voltage would otherwise be exposed at the open
flat connector socket.
Devices with strain relief:
Power is supplied using either the coaxial inputs or outputs or the
PCB terminal block built into the power supply unit.
If power is supplied via the PCB terminal block, which is built into
the power supply unit, the fuse in the power supply unit must be in-
serted. The fuses in the HF section of the device can be inserted ac-
cording to the application.
When the device is delivered, the strain relief is sealed with a seal-
ing washer, which can be removed after the screw cap has been re-
moved, but only for the purpose of feeding a cable through.
If power is supplied via the coaxial connectors, the corresponding
remote power supply fuse in the power supply unit can remain in-
serted.

Information about supplying power remotely
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 14
Installation instructions for remotely powered equipment
According to DIN EN 50083-1, only remote supply voltages up to
65 V AC are permissible. Voltages above 50 V AC are regarded as
dangerous to touch. Therefore, they must not be accessible to lay-
persons and only accessible to trained electricians using tools.
If there is a rupture at any point in the shielding (outer conductor) of
the coaxial cable which is conducting current, the remote supply
voltage may be present on the metal housing of the device through
contact with the inner conductor and the circuit (danger of electro-
cution!). Therefore, the outer conductor connection of the cable that
is supplying power must never be disconnected before its inner con-
ductor connection is disconnected. (As a precaution, always turn off
the remote supply voltage.) A safe outer conductor contact should
be made with great care (observe the manufacturer's instructions).
The following protective measures must be taken:
Equipotential bonding via the local PE connection
An additional connection with an earth potential must be made
using a cable with at least 4 mm2of copper at the PE terminal
of the device. This connection can be made to a PE rail
supplied by the customer or a local earth.
If this is not possible, one of the following safety measures should
be provided:
Equipotential bonding via the minimum cross section of the
coaxial cable
It must be permanently ensured that the remotely powered
coaxial cable has a continuous outer conductor cross section
of at least 4 mm2(from the supply point onwards).
Note: Braided cables do not usually have this cross-section!
Equipotential bonding via several connected cables
It must be ensured that at least one other connected coaxial
cable is permanently connected to an earth potential along the
length of its shield.
Equipotential bonding in the area within hand's reach
Equipotential bonding in the area within hand's reach of the
device (i.e. a radius of 2.5 m) must be ensured. In order to
achieve this, all conducting parts must be connected with the
device with a copper conductor of at least 4 mm2.

page 15
Warranty conditions
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Protection against contact via insulation in enclosed operating
areas
Remotely powered devices must be operated in enclosed
operating areas. A warning sign must be provided, stating that
supply voltage potential may be present on the device chassis
in the event of a failure (e.g. a lightning bolt + “High voltage! In
case of failure, do not touch!”). Cables leading directly to
subscribers must be fitted with a galvanic outer conductor
disconnector.
Limit the maximum remote supply voltage to 50 V AC
The remote supply voltage may not exceed 50 V AC.
NOTE: If several devices are supplied by separate
cables, the polarity must not be reversed!
Warranty conditions
The general terms and conditions of ASTRO Strobel GmbH apply.
They can be found in the current catalogue or on the Internet under
“www.astro-kom.de”.

Performance description
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 16
Performance description
The amplifiers of the VARIO series are locally or remotely powered
broadband amplifiers. The division of the frequency ranges
(upstream/downstream) is variable through the use of pluggable
filters. You can activate the return path channel with optional diplex
filters as well as with various active return path modules. (See
"Technical data” section.) You can also activate the return path
using the corresponding zero card included in the scope of delivery.
The inputs of VARIO amplifiers are equipped with a push-pull stage
using GaAs technology. A GaAs line amplifier is also used in the
output. This equipment ensures a very high dynamic range with low
power consumption. The possibility of equalisation or interstage
equalisation of incoming or
outgoing cable attenuation allows for further improvement of the
maximum output level and linearity.
The VARIO 561 F PG11, 662 F PG11, 681 F PG11, 682 F PG11
and 684 F PG11 amplifiers can be flexibly configured for future
multimedia cable networks:
2 outputs (second output can be activated using various junc-
tion cards, see “Technical data” section)
Adjustment of local level conditions using adjustable attenua-
tors and equalisers (pads)
Distribution of investment costs by upgrading with diplex filters
and return path modules as required
Return path can be activated with a plug-in module
All return path amplifiers are uninterrupted
Equaliser and attenuator in the optional return path module
In order to use the device properly, you must carefully read the
following safety and operating instructions.

page 17
Disposal
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Disposal
Allofour packaging materials(cardboardboxes,inserts,plastic film
and bags) are completely recyclable.
After use, this device must be disposed of in an orderly manner as
electronic scrap, in accordance with the current disposal regula-
tions of your district/country/state.
ASTRO Strobel is a member of the Elektro system solution for the
disposal of packaging materials. Our contract number is 80395.
Installation
PREPARATION:
Before you can install the device, you must first drill three holes in
a vertical installation surface and insert wall plugs into the holes.
For the required borehole spacing and diameters, please refer to
the “Drilling distances” section, page 31.
The following describes how to install the device:
TASK
1. Place the back of the device against the installation surface so
that its oblong holes are exactly above the two wall plugs. The
connection sockets of the device must point downwards.
2. Now screw the device in place with screws that match the size
of the wall plug.
RESULT:
The device is now installed and you can begin the installation of the
input and output sockets –if not pre-assembled ex works.
NOTE: ASTRO cannot guarantee safety if the customer/
user installs the sockets himself!
If you nevertheless wishto assemble the sockets yourself, please
observe the following assembly instructions.
First, screw the desired adapters (see page 3) or the cable fitting
with PG11 thread onto the input and output connections of the am-
plifier.

Installation
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 18
Proceed as follows (see Fig. 3 below):
Fig. 3: Installing the input and output sockets
TASK
1. Using the supplied Allen wrench [1], loosen the grub screws [2]
of the inner conductor terminal blocks [3] until the borehole for
receiving the inner conductor in the inner conductor terminal
block [4] is free.
IMPORTANT: In order to prevent the screw from falling
out, do not unscrew the grub screw too far. If the grub
screw is lost, proper operationof the amplifier is no longer
possible.
2. Screw the previously selected connection adapter [4] or the
cable fitting [7] (see left) to the housing connections [5] of the
amplifier using a suitable wrench.
IMPORTANT: If you want to use a cable fitting with PG11
thread [7] or a connection adapter from a third party,
shorten the inner conductor [6] to a length of 12 - 13 mm
using pliers or another suitable tool.
A shorter contact pin cannot be used, as safe contact with
the inner conductor terminal block [3] cannot be ensured.
A contact pin that is too long would lead to safety prob-
lems and have a negative effect on the high-frequency
characteristics of the amplifier.
3. Now use the Allen key [1] to tighten the grub screw [2] to
ensure a safe contact between the inner conductor and the
inner conductor connection block [3].
RESULT:
The device is now fitted with input and output sockets and can be
connected.
I
II
III
IV
V
VI
VII
12 - 13 mm

page 19
Connection
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021A
Connection
PREPARATION:
Toconnect the amplifier to coaxial cables, you must first fit them
with F connectors 75 Ohm. Fconnectors are available in various
designs, so that direct connection of different cable diameters is
possible.
The following describes how to connect the amplifier and coaxial
cables:
TASK
1. Plug the F connectors into the corresponding sockets of the
amplifier (input [6] and output 1 [4] or output 2 [5], see picture
above left) and screw the outer ring of the F connector tight.
2. Make sure the coaxial cables are laid with a sufficient bending
radius.
3. You can supply the device with a remote supply voltage via the
input and output sockets. Alternatively, you can use the flat
connector socket [2] to power the device locally.
RESULT:
The device is now ready for operation. The power indicator [1] (see
picture bottom left) lights up.

Configuring the forward path
Operating manual VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F, 684 F -Version 01-2021Apage 20
Configuring the forward path
PREPARATION:
VARIO 561 F, 662 F, 683 F and 684 F equalisers have an input
equaliser and pad in the forward path to equalise incoming cable at-
tenuation [1], as well as an inverse input equaliser and pad to sim-
ulate cable attenuation [2] (see aboveleft). Input attenuation is also
adjustable with a pad [3]. Make thedesired adjustments here by in-
serting the corresponding pads.
Between the amplifier stages (interstage), you can also set a pre-
equalisation of the outgoing cable length by reinserting the jumper
[5] accordingly (see picture bottom left). For attenuation you can
also insert a pad here [6].
The amplifier’s default configuration is for forward-only operation:
The return path is deactivated (two zero cards of type VZ 1001
inserted, no modules for return path transmission inserted).
The second output is deactivated (one zero card of type VZ
1006inserted);toactivatethe secondoutput,youmustreplace
the zero card with a junction card of type VZ... or a distributor
of type VZ... (see “Technical data” section).
The jumpers for setting the equalisation and attenuation in the
forward path and the return path input attenuation are set to
0dB.
ATTENTION: In cable networks that do not use a
return path, the return path must remain deactivated.
RESULT:
The device is now configured for the transmission of forward sig-
nals.