Hughes HN Series User manual

Hughes HN Series
Modem/Router
Interface Guide and Reference
Revision R11.9.0
Documentation of the interface between the Hughes HN Series modem/router
and the AvL Technologies AAQ antenna controller, reference information, and
troubleshooting guide.
Appendix K
AvL Technologies
900-159-010

Hughes HN
1
Revision History
Date
Revision
Revision
By
Approved
By
Revision Description
9/9/15
1.0
WL
Initial Release for 11.4
6/29/16
11.6.0
WL
Change to revision sequence and updates
for 11.6
10/31/16
R11.8.0
AS
MF
Updates for 11.8, added approved by in
revision history
3/17/17
R11.9.0
WL/IH
JF
Updates for release 11.9/Introduction
update
Contents
1. Introduction......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3
2. Setup Guide.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3
2.1. Hardware....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3
2.2. Software ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4
2.3. Hardware Connection...........................................................................................................................................................................................................4
Serial Communication Connection.......................................................................................................................................................................................4
Ethernet Communication Connection ................................................................................................................................................................................4
3. Configuration ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
3.1. Core Configuration Items ....................................................................................................................................................................................................6
3.2. Target Configuration Items ................................................................................................................................................................................................7
3.3. Signal Configuration Items .................................................................................................................................................................................................8

Hughes HN
2
3.4. Feed Configuration Items....................................................................................................................................................................................................9
4. Operation ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
4.1. Functional Overview .............................................................................................................................................................................................................9
4.2. Sensor Outputs...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.3. Module Windows ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Device Window .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Device Control Window ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
5. Issues and Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
5.1. Satellite Temporary Fixed Terminal States.............................................................................................................................................................. 12
5.2. Troubleshooting Communication Between AAQ and Modem/Router ........................................................................................................ 14
5.3. Modem/Router LED Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................................................ 15
Figures
Figure 1 - Modem/Router Indicators and Connections .......................................................................................................... 3
Figure 2 - Version Info............................................................................................................................................................. 4
Figure 3 - Ethernet Setup ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Figure 4–Advanced Network Settings.................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 5 - Core Configuration Window ................................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 6 - Target Configuration Window ................................................................................................................................ 7
Figure 7 - Signal Configuration Tab......................................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 8 - Sensor Output Window......................................................................................................................................... 10
Figure 9 - Device Window ..................................................................................................................................................... 11

Hughes HN
3
1. Introduction
The Hughes HN is a satellite modem/router designed for private network use within large organizations. The
modem/router can be configured to provide network connectivity to a single or multiple hosts on a local area network
(LAN). The operating software resides within the device which eliminates the need for a phone line to download
software updates. Software configurations are also downloaded via satellite. The Hughes HN modem can be integrated
into the AvL AAQ system to provide accurate beam pointing, and Internet and communications services.
Front Panel
Rear Panel
Figure 1 - Modem/Router Indicators and Connections
2. Setup Guide
2.1. Hardware
The following hardware is required for the operation of this module:
Hughes HN9500/9600 Satellite Modem Router
AvL AAQ Antenna System

Hughes HN
4
2.2. Software
Path
Main Window → HelpVersion info.
Level 0
Be sure that the Remote Client, ROM, and device module are at or above the versions shown below:
Figure 2 - Version Info
2.3. Hardware Connection
Serial Communication Connection
Serial connection is not an option for the hardware associated with this module.
Ethernet Communication Connection
Connect the AAQ antenna controller to the Hughes HN modem/router via one of the three LAN ports on the rear of
the CIP. The AAQ controller supports Ethernet communications to the modem/router

Hughes HN
5
Figure 3 - Ethernet Setup
When setting the system to communicate by Ethernet, it is important to make sure the controller has a network path
to the Hughes HN modem/router so the controller can query the modem/router over the network. The example
shown below represents a typical installation.
Path
Main Window → File → SettingsAAQ Network Interface Options
Level 1
The modem/router has a static IP Address that allows for communication for all the different phases. Using an
example IP Address for the modem/router of 169.254.121.118, the communication must be on the 169.254.121.XXX
network. The following address is selected for Customer Network 1: 169.254.121.119, while the Gateway IP address
is set to 192.168.129.1 (this Gateway IP Address is necessary if the CIP is configured as a router).
Figure 4–Advanced Network Settings
Note: The Port and IP Address are hardcoded in the modem/router. They are always available and allow
communication to the modem/router for all phases.

Hughes HN
6
3. Configuration
Modify the following configuration items to enable interaction of the controller to the modem/router. Configuration
parameters specific to the Hughes HN modem/router are indicated in the figures that follow
3.1. Core Configuration Items
Path
Main Window → View Configuration Core
Level 4
Figure 5 - Core Configuration Window
Long Name
Level
Type
Value
Range
Description
Hughes HN SQF Lock
Threshold
4
Integer
None
The value of SQF that tells the
system it is locked.
HughesHN Com Port
4
Float
None
This configuration item is not used.
HughesHN Com Port
Settings
4
Float
None
This configuration item is not used.

Hughes HN
7
HughesHN Gradient
Sample Time
4
Float
0-300
Sample time in seconds for
detecting signal gradient.
HughesHN Noise Sample
Time
4
Float
0-60000
Sample time in MS for detecting
signal noise.
3.2. Target Configuration Items
Path
Main Window → View Configuration Target
Level 4
Figure 6 - Target Configuration Window
Long Name
Level
Type
Value
Range
Description
Circular Polarization Left
Hand Position
4
Integer
-110 to 110
Left hand position (in degrees) of the motorized
circular pol
Circular Polarization
Position
4
Choice
Left Hand,
Center,
Right Hand
Pol target for motorized circular pols
Note-This must be set to “Center” for proper
operation
Circular Polarization
Right Hand Position
1
Integer
-110 to 110
Right hand position (in degrees) of the
motorized circular pol

Hughes HN
8
Scan Source
1
Choice
-
The signal source used for the initial target
scan.
Note-This must be set to “HughesHN” for
proper operation
Course Source
1
Choice
-
This signal source used for Course Peaking on
the target.
Note-This must be set to “HughesHN” for
proper operation
Fine Source
1
Choice
-
The signal source used for Fine Peaking on the
target.
Note-This must be set to “HughesHN” for
proper operation
3.3. Signal Configuration Items
Path
Main Window → View Configuration Signal
Level 4
Figure 7 - Signal Configuration Tab

Hughes HN
9
Long Name
Level
Type
Value
Range
Description
Polarization Peaking
Enabled
4
Cho
ice
“Yes”,
“No”
If set to yes then pol will be peaked after fine
peaking.
3.4. Feed Configuration Items
There are no Feed Configuration Items associated with this module.
4. Operation
4.1. Functional Overview
Definition Of Terms
DAS—Deployable Antenna System (AAQ Controller)
FCS—Final Cell Selection
NOC—Network Operation Center
SQF—Signal Quality Factor
ST—Satellite terminal (Modem/Router)
STFT—Satellite Temporary Fixed Terminal (Controller, Modem/Router & Positioner combined)
System Operational Description
The Hughes HN modem/router interfaces to the AvL AAQ controller referred to as the Deployable Antenna System or
DAS via an Ethernet-based TCP/IP connection. Communications with the modem/router employ a proprietary HTTP
protocol. The modem/router steps through a series of phases from power-up to full operation. The AAQ controller,
with the correct Hughes HN modem/router module installed, works with the modem/router as it moves through these
phases.
Following the configuration of a Hughes HN target profile (described in previous sections) the Hughes HN modem may
be used as a standard signal source with the AvL AAQ antenna system and will be integrated as part of the standard
acquisition process.
Note: For the HN modem/router to work it must be inside of the geographic area covered by the Hughes satellite
system and the end-user must have an active service contract. If the antenna is not in an acceptable geographic
location or there is not a valid service contract with Hughes, the modem/router will fail the registration part of the
commissioning process.
The first time a modem/router is commissioned after reboot, it will cycle through three phases; Boot, Commissioning,
and Operation. The specific steps required to acquire a satellite signal and establish a working connection will depend
upon both the phase of the modem/router and the progress of the acquisition process. Once the modem/router has
been commissioned, some steps will either be skipped or will proceed more quickly.

Hughes HN
10
Note: Depending on the state of the modem/router firmware and its registration with the Hughes network,
commissioning can take up to 40 minutes. Periodic updates on the state of the process allow users to track the
progress of the operation.
The combination of a modem/router with a controller and positioner is called a Satellite Temporary Fixed Terminal
(STFT). A modem/router operating in this configuration is operating in STFT mode. When the antenna is stowed and
transmit is disabled on the router/modem, the STFT will be in the “Idle” state. This is generally used when transporting
the antenna. The STFT is considered to be active in all states except for the “Idle” state.
As long as the antenna is pointed, the modem/router could enter the Operational phase and become fully operational
without interacting with the AAQ controller. After modem/router reboot, the modem/router will report “Operational
Status-Down” to the AAQ controller until it can reconcile its configuration over the network.
4.2. Sensor Outputs
Path
Main Window → View→ Sensor Output
Level 0
Check the boxes beside any Sensor Outputs you wish to view for monitoring operations.
Figure 8 - Sensor Output Window
The table below describes the Sensor Outputs relevant to this module.
Item
Description
Hughes HN Detected
Noise
The portion of the signal declared as noise by the AAQ module.
Hughes HN Min Lock
Signal
The minimum signal level required by the AAQ to declare lock. *(For future
use)
Hughes HN Min Valid
Signal
The minimum signal level reported by the Hughes modem that may be
declared a lock by the AAQ module. *(For future use)

Hughes HN
11
Hughes HN Rx Lock
A flag indicating wether or not the Hughes modem is reporting a signal lock.
Hughes HN Rx Signal
The instantaneous signal level as reported by the Hughes modem.
Hughes HN Signal
Average
The average signal level measurement as defined by the Configuration item
and as measured by the AAQ module.
Hughes HN Signal
Gradient
The change in signal level over time as defined by the Configuration item
and as measured by the AAQ module
4.3. Module Windows
Device Window
The software provides a Device Window for use in monitoring operation
Path
Main Window → View→ Device Window
Level 0
Figure 9 - Device Window
Item
Description
Signal Level
The Rx signal strength that is being reported by the Hughes modem. This is
the signal that the controller will use to peak on.
Modem Locked
The locked status of the Hughes modem.
Acquisition State
The current AAQ acquisition state.

Hughes HN
12
Acquisition Message
Informational message as returned from the AAQ about the current
acquisition.
Modem State
Indicates the modem current STFT state (numerical). Refer to the table below
(Figure 9) for each modem state.
Modem Msg:
A short description of the current STFT state
Command Result:
Message returned from the Hughes modem in reference to current
command.
Device Control Window
A Device Control Window is not needed for monitoring operation and is not included in the software.
5. Issues and Troubleshooting
5.1. Satellite Temporary Fixed Terminal States
Modem
State
Modem Msg
Phase
Description
Action
0
ST Rebooting
Boot,
Commissioning
Satellite Terminal is rebooting
No action
necessary
1
IDLE
None
Controller and modem/router
are not communicating
Typically this is only
during
transportation
2
Uninstalled-
Installation
Recommended
Boot
Modem/router has not been
installed properly
Have the Satellite
Terminal
professionally
installed
3
Pointing –INIT
Boot
Modem/router parameters
are intializing for pointing
No action
necessary
4
Pointing –Coarse
Boot
Coarse pointing is in process
No action
necessary
5
Pointing –FCS
Boot
Final Cell Selection
No action
necessary
6
FCS Failure
Boot
Selected cell is not viable for
this location
Must change
locaions

Hughes HN
13
7
Pointing –Waiting
for Tx Pol change
Boot
Current pol neds to be
changed
AAQ changes pol
8
Pointing –Dither
Boot
Satellite Temporary Fixed
Terminal dithers to determine
peak plateau center
No action
necessary
9
Pointing –Done
Boot
Pointing complete
No action
necessary
10
Commissioning*
Commissioning
Configurations and software
are updating
No action
necessary
11
Probing Failure
Commissioning
Satellite probing did not
succeed
Satellite probing
continues until
successful
12
Registraton Failure
Commissioning
Modem/router failed to
resgister with Hughes
Network Operation Center
Contact Hughes
Customer Support
13
Operational Status
–Down
Operational
Modem/router is not
functioning properly
Connect to the
modem/router’s
System Control
Center using a web
browser and/or
contact Hughes
customer service
14
Operational Status
–Up
Operational
Modem/router is functioning
properly
No action
necessary
15
Hardware Failure
Boot,
Commissioning,
Operational
Hardware is not functioning
properly
Replace
modem/router
16
Operational Status
–Rebooting
Operational
Modem/router is rebooting
No action
necessary
17
Operational Status
–LAN Port Reset
Operational
Modem/router is
reconfiguring its LAN port
No action
necessary
Note : If updates are necessary, this state can take up to 40 minutes.
The first step in troubleshooting is to check your overall setup. Check physical connections to the modem/router and
make sure that all RF system cables are secure. Also check that all equipment is powered on and LEDs indicate that the
modem/router is operating correctly.

Hughes HN
14
5.2. Troubleshooting Communication Between AAQ and Modem/Router
Issue
Description
Corrective Action
No communication between
AAQ and modem/router
Warnings in AAQ GUI, device
window not populated
Check that the correct version of
the Hughes HN modem module
has been installed.
Check connections to modem
and network settings.
Device Window is not populated
No data in Device Window
Check connections to modem
and network settings.
Check that the target is
configured to use the Hughes HN
modem.
Check that the correct version of
the Hughes HN modem module
has been installed.
Acquisition does not complete
System never enters Fine
Peaking phase
Check that Polarization Peaking
is Enabled.
Acquisition is not successful
Device window displays Modem
Locked: unlocked. Antenna
performs Maximum Elevation
Steps and displays “All Signal
Sources Tried With No Valid
Signal Detected” error popup.
Check Rx cable for proper
connection/damage.
Following acquisition modem
loses lock
Device window displays Signal
Level: SQF: 1, Modem Locked:
unlocked.
Check Rx cable for proper
connection/damage.
Acquisition Paused and does not
resume
AAQ GUI message is “(XX0110)
Paused”. Device Window
displays Signal Level: --, Modem
Locked: unlocked, Acquisition
Msg: Waiting for Socket, Modem
Msg: Not Connected
Check Ethernet connection
between AAQ CIP and modem.
Note: The acquisition may pause
for up to 10 minutes during a
normal acquisition while waiting
for the modem
Acquisition process is very slow
Acquisition takes many Elevation
Steps
Check HughesHN Noise Sample
Time. May need to be set to a
higher value.
Check antenna calibration.

Hughes HN
15
5.3. Modem/Router LED Troubleshooting
LED Label
LED
Description
Action
LAN
On
The modem/router's LAN port is connected
to another network device
Normal operation
Off
LAN cable disconnected or other problem
with the LAN configuration.
Check network connections
Transmit
On
The modem/router is able to transmit
Normal operation
Off
Connectivity failed
Open a case/call for support
Flashing
Transmitting packets
Normal operation
Receive
On
Acceptable signal quality
Normal operation
Off
Problem in the receive path
Check transmit cable connection
Flashing
Modem/router is receiving data packets
from the satellite
Normal operation
System
On
Ready to receive user traffic
Normal operation
Off
Not ready to service user traffic
Call support if needed
Flashing
In boot or commissioning phase
Normal operation
Power
On - Blue LED
The modem/router is receiving power from
the power supply
Normal operation
On - Red LED
Modem/router temperature is too hot -
close to overheating.
Confirm that the modem/router is
positioned vertically, the vents
are unblocked and the
environmental temperature is
within operating range.
If the modem/router will shut
down if it overheats. The unit will
return to operational status when
the temperature has cooled to
normal operating range.
Off
Not receiving power
Check power connection