KVH Industries TracVision M5 User manual

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
TracVision M5/M7
Control Panel Configuration

KVH Part # 54-0419-02 Rev. A
© 2007, KVH Industries, Inc., All rights reserved.
U.S. Patents Pending
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
TracVision M5/M7
MultiSat Control Panel Configuration
User’s Guide
This user’s guide provides all of the basic information you need to
operate, set up, and troubleshoot the TracVision M5/M7 satellite
TV antenna system. For detailed installation information, please
refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide.
Please direct questions, comments, or suggestions to:
KVH Industries, Inc. KVH Europe A/S
50 Enterprise Center Kokkedal Industripark 2B
Middletown, RI 02842-5279 USA 2980 Kokkedal, Denmark
Tel: [phone] Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone] Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: www.kvh.com Internet: www.kvh.com
If you have any comments regarding this manual, please e-mail
them to [email protected]. Your input is greatly appreciated!

TracVision and KVH are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.
The unique light-colored dome with dark contrasting base is a registered trademark of KVH Industries, Inc.
DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) is a registered trademark of the DVB Project.
DIRECTV is an official trademark of DIRECTV, Inc.
DISH Network is an official trademark of EchoStar Communications Corporation.
ExpressVu is a property of Bell ExpressVu, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Satellite Services.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Table of Contents
TracVision M5/7 User’s Guide
i
Table of Contents
1Introduction
Using this Manual..............................................................................3
System Overview...............................................................................6
Circular and Linear Versions..............................................................9
2Operation
Receiving Satellite TV Signals .........................................................13
Turning the System On/Off ..............................................................14
Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites
(Linear Version Only)........................................................................15
Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................18
DIRECTV HD Subscribers .................................................................21
Product Care....................................................................................22
3 Settings
Changing the Sleep Mode Setting ...................................................25
Changing the Instant On Setting......................................................26
Setting the MCP to Track Different Satellites
(Linear Version Only)........................................................................27
Setting the MCP to Track Different Satellites
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................37
Changing TriSat Modes (Circular Version Only)...............................43
Updating Latitude and Longitude Data ............................................44
Adjusting the Skew Angle................................................................45
Adjusting Display Brightness...........................................................49
Restarting the Antenna....................................................................50

Table of Contents
TracVision M5/7 User’s Guide
ii
4 Troubleshooting
Five Simple Checks..........................................................................53
Troubleshooting Matrix....................................................................54
Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues..................................55
Technical Support............................................................................59
Field Replaceable Units ...................................................................60
A Advanced Settings and Functions
Manually Controlling the Antenna....................................................65
Updating Satellite Frequency Data ..................................................66
Configuring Satellite Settings ..........................................................68
Displaying Software Version Information.........................................69
Displaying the Antenna Serial Number ............................................70
Other Advanced Settings .................................................................71
B Position Grids
European Position Grid.....................................................................75
North American Position Grid...........................................................76
C Programming User-defined Satellites
Connect a PC to the Main Flash Port................................................79
Programming Your User-defined Satellite(s) ...................................81
D TracVision M5 Wiring Diagrams
TracVision M5 Wiring Diagram for One or Two Receivers ...............89
TracVision M5 Wiring Diagram for Three or Four Receivers
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................90
TracVision M5 Wiring Diagram for One DIRECTV HD Receiver
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................91
TracVision M5 Wiring Diagram for Two or More DIRECTV HD
Receivers (Circular Version Only).....................................................92

TracVision M5/7 User’s Guide
iii
Table of Contents
E TracVision M7 Wiring Diagrams
TracVision M7 Wiring Diagram for One or Two Receivers...............95
TracVision M7 Wiring Diagram for Three or Four Receivers
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................96
TracVision M7 Wiring Diagram for Three or Four Receivers
(Linear Quad-output Version Only)...................................................97
TracVision M7 Wiring Diagram for One DIRECTV HD Receiver
(Circular Version Only) .....................................................................98
TracVision M7 Wiring Diagram for Two or More DIRECTV HD
Receivers (Circular Version Only) ....................................................99

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
1
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1. Introduction
This chapter provides a basic overview of this manual and your
TracVision system.
Contents
Using this Manual.............................................................. 3
System Overview............................................................... 6
Circular and Linear Versions.............................................. 9

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
3
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Using this Manual
This manual provides complete operation, setup, and troubleshooting
information for your TracVision system, as well as wiring diagrams
for various TracVision M5/M7 configurations.
Who Should Use This Manual
The user should refer to the “Operation” chapter to learn how to
operate the system.
The user, installer, or servicing technician should refer to the
“Settings” chapter for information on configuring the system and the
“Wiring Diagram” appendices for information on connecting
additional receivers.
The installer or servicing technician should refer to the “Advanced
Settings and Functions” appendix for information on advanced setting
and operational procedures.
The user and/or servicing technician should refer to the
“Troubleshooting” chapter to help identify the cause of a system
problem.
Notifications Used in this Manual
This manual uses the following notifications to call attention to
important information:
NOTE: This is a Note. Notes contain useful information about system
settings.
TIP: This is a Tip. These contain helpful information, allowing you to get the
most out of your TracVision system.Typographical Conventions
CAUTION
This is a danger, warning, or caution notice. Be sure to read these
carefully to avoid injury!
This is an important notice. Be sure to read these carefully to
ensure proper operation and configuration of your TracVision
system.
IMPORTANT!

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
4
Chapter 1 - Introduction
This manual uses the following typographical conventions:
MCP (MultiSat Control Panel) Interface Conventions
When instructions indicate to select a specific MCP menu option, press
the MCP button located directly beneath the menu option.
Figure 1-1 Example of MCP Menu Option and Corresponding Button.
Text Example Description
Text in brackets or the pound sign (#)
indicates a variable portion of the
MCP display
HALT Bold text in capital letters indicates a
command to be entered via a PC
XBold text in italicized capital letters
indicates a variable portion of a
command to be entered via a PC
“Turning the System On/
Off” on page 14
Cross-reference to another chapter in
the manual or to a website
<Sat Name>
###
MCP
101-110:Tracking 110
119 Menu

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
5
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Related Documentation
In addition to this User’s Guide, the following documents are
provided with your TracVision system:
Document Description
Installation Guide Complete product installation
instructions
Product Registration Form Details on registering the product
Warranty Statement Warranty terms and conditions
Contents List List of every part supplied in the kit

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
6
Chapter 1 - Introduction
System Overview
Your TracVision system is a state-of-the-art, actively stabilized
antenna system that delivers live satellite TV to your vessel’s audio/
video entertainment system. A basic system is illustrated below.
TracVision M5 receiver wiring diagrams are provided in
“Appendix D” on page 87. TracVision M7 receiver wiring diagrams are
provided in “Appendix E” on page 93.
Figure 1-2 TracVision System Diagram (Basic Installation)
Vessel Power
11 - 16 VDC
TracVision Antenna
Switchplate
Satellite Receiver(s) TV(s)
Purchased Separately
MCP
Vessel Power
11 - 16 VDC

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
7
Chapter 1 - Introduction
System Components
Antenna Unit
The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning
mechanism, LNB (low noise block), and control
elements within a radome. Weathertight
connectors join the power, signal, and control
cabling from the belowdecks units.
Switchplate
The switchplate controls power to the antenna and
MCP (MultiSat Control Panel) via the On/Off
switch.
MCP (MultiSat Control Panel)
The MCP is the system’s user interface, providing
access to the system and its functions through an
LCD and three buttons. The MCP serves as the
vessel’s junction box, allowing the system to use
vessel power and supply and receive data to/from
the TracVision M5/M7. The MCP also allows
tracking of up to three satellites and is compatible
with DIRECTV HD equipment and service.

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
8
Chapter 1 - Introduction
System Features
Your TracVision M5/M7 system uses integrated DVB technology to
quickly acquire and track the correct satellite, switch between
satellites, and send TV signals to the receiver.
In-motion Tracking
The TracVision M5/M7 system uses a state-of-the-art actively
stabilized antenna system. Once the satellite is acquired, the system’s
internal gyros continuously measure the heading, pitch, and roll of
your vessel and send commands to the antenna motors, keeping the
antenna pointed at the satellite at all times - even while you’re on the
move!
TriSat Capability
Your TracVision M5/M7 is capable of tracking three selected satellites,
as long as the antenna is located within the selected satellites’ coverage
area. During installation, your TracVision system should have been set
up to track your desired satellites, allowing you to switch between
your selected satellites quickly and easily.
DIRECTV HD (High-Definition) Capability (Circular Version Only)
The TracVision M5/M7’s MCP enables DIRECTV HD service, and is
compatible with DIRECTV HD equipment and service.
Satellite Library
The TracVision M5/M7 includes a pre-programmed satellite library of
the most popular satellite services, offering a wide variety of satellite
services to choose from. Using a PC, you can also add up to two
additional satellites of your choice to the satellite library.

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
9
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Circular and Linear Versions
Your TracVision system is configured for either circularly polarized
satellite signals (North America) or linearly polarized satellite signals
(Europe or Latin America). Figure 1-3 illustrates the difference
between these two polarizations.
Figure 1-3 Polarizations of Satellite Signals
LNB Skew Angle
Since linear satellite signals are oriented in a precise cross pattern, the
TracVision antenna’s receiving element, called an LNB (low-noise
block) must be oriented in the same way to optimize reception. This
orientation adjustment is referred to as the LNB’s “skew angle.”
Figure 1-4 illustrates how skew determines the amount of signal the
LNB collects. The more signal, the better the reception.
Figure 1-4 How Skew Works
Circular Linear
Signals transmitted in two
“corkscrew” patterns, one
running clockwise and one
running counter-clockwise
Signals transmitted in vertical
and horizontal “waves” offset
exactly 90º from each other
Ideal SkewGood SkewBad Skew
= Satellite Signal = LNB "Signal Collector"

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
10
Chapter 1 - Introduction
The correct skew setting varies depending on your geographic
location, since the orientation of your antenna to the satellite changes
as you move. For example, as shown in Figure 1-5, if your antenna is
tracking the PAS 9 satellite for Sky Mexico programming, the ideal
skew setting ranges from +30 to +70, depending upon your location
within the satellite’s coverage area.
Figure 1-5 Approximate Skew Settings for the PAS 9 Satellite
For complete details about adjusting the LNB’s skew angle, see
“Adjusting the Skew Angle” on page 45.
+70
+65
+60
+55
+50 +45 +40 +35 +30

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
11
Chapter 2 - Operation
2. Operation
This chapter explains everything you need to know to operate the
TracVision system.
Contents
Receiving Satellite TV Signals ......................................... 13
Turning the System On/Off .............................................. 14
Changing Channels and Switching Between
Satellites (Linear Version Only)........................................ 15
Changing Channels and Switching Between
Satellites (Circular Version Only) ..................................... 18
DIRECTV HD Subscribers ................................................. 21
Product Care.................................................................... 22

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
13
Chapter 2 - Operation
Receiving Satellite TV Signals
Television satellites are located in fixed positions above the Earth’s
equator and beam TV signals down to certain regions of the planet
(not worldwide). To receive TV signals from a satellite, you must be
located within that satellite’s unique coverage area.
TIP: For your convenience, KVH provides links to several websites that offer
satellite coverage information. Simply visit our website at www.kvh.com/
footprint.
Figure 2-1 Location and Coverage Area of DIRECTV 101 Satellite
In addition, since TV satellites are located above the equator, the
TracVision antenna must have a clear view of the sky to receive
satellite TV signals. Anything that stands between the antenna and the
satellite can block the signal, resulting in lost reception. Common
causes of blockage include boat masts, trees, buildings, and bridges.
Heavy rain, ice, or snow might also temporarily interrupt satellite
signals.
Figure 2-2 Example of Satellite Blockage
Equator
TracVision
Blocked!

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
14
Chapter 2 - Operation
Turning the System On/Off
Since power to the system is controlled by the switchplate, you can
turn the TracVision system on or off using the switchplate.
Turning On the System
Follow the steps below to turn on your TracVision system.
1. Make sure the antenna has a clear view of the sky.
2. Turn on your satellite TV receiver and TV.
3. Set the switchplate’s Power switch to the on (up)
position.
Figure 2-3 Switchplate Power Switch
4. Wait one minute for system startup.
Turning Off the System
Follow the steps below to turn off your TracVision system.
1. Set the switchplate’s Power switch to the off (down)
position.
2. Turn off your satellite TV receiver and TV.
Avoid turning the vessel or changing channels for one
minute after turning on the system.
IMPORTANT!
ON
OFF

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
15
Chapter 2 - Operation
Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites
(Linear Version Only)
Since some channels might be located on another satellite, changing
channels might require switching to another selected satellite. During
installation, your TracVision M5/M7 system should have been set up
to track the satellite(s) of your choice and the channel guides for your
selected satellite service should have been downloaded.
Your TracVision system can track up to three satellites, stored in
memory as Satellite A, Satellite B, and Satellite C. If your system is set
up to track three satellites, see “Automatic TriSat Mode” or “Manual
Trisat Mode” on page 17 for more information. If your system is set to
track one or two satellites, see “DualSat Mode” on page 17.
NOTE: TracVision M7 systems with more than four receivers require a
multiswitch. Installation of a multiswitch requires using Manual TriSat
Mode or DualSat Mode.
TIP: The primary receiver controls satellite selection; all other receivers can
only receive channels carried on the satellite selected by the primary receiver.
The primary receiver is the receiver connected to the antenna’s RF1
connector.
TIP: If you want to change which satellites the system tracks, see “Setting
the MCP to Track Different Satellites (Linear Version Only)” on
page 27.
Linear Version Only
To ensure proper operation, the receiver(s) must be set up for the
same satellites, and in the same order, they are set up in the
antenna:
IMPORTANT!
Antenna
Satellite
Receiver
Satellite
DiSEqC
Setting
Sat. A Alternative 1 or A DiSEqC 1
Sat. B Alternative 2 or B DiSEqC 2
Sat. C Alternative 3 or C DiSEqC 3

TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide
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Chapter 2 - Operation
Automatic TriSat Mode
In Automatic TriSat Mode, the antenna automatically switches
between satellites within the selected TriSat group as the user changes
channels on the receiver’s remote control.
NOTE: If you use the MCP to manually switch satellites, automatic satellite
switching is disabled until the system is turned off, then turned back on. For
more information on turning the system on/off, see “Turning the System
On/Off” on page 14.
TIP: TriSat groups and the satellites within each TriSat group are shown in
Figure 2-5.
Figure 2-4 Automatic TriSat Mode Display
Figure 2-5 TriSat Groups
Linear Version Only
TriSat Group Satellites
Europe WB (EWB)
Hotbird WB
Astra 1
Astra 2S
Europe (EUR)
Hotbird
Astra 1
Astra 2S
Scandinavia (SCN)
Hotbird WB
Sirius
Thor
Selected
Satellite
Tracking <Sat A>
<Sat B> Menu <Sat C>