Microwave Radio Communications Strata User manual

Strata Operations Guide
- 1 -
Strata Transmitter
Operations Guide
Revision 3.0
May 2003
Microwave Radio Communications 101 Billerica Avenue, Bldg 6
[phone] N. Billerica, MA 01862-1256
www.mrcbroadcast.com

WARNING!
THIS EQUIPMENT IF HANDLED IMPROPERLY WILL
POSE A RADIATION HAZARD
Microwave Radio Communications Inc. in compliance with RF exposure limits set forth in OET
Bulletin 65, Edition 97-01 utilizes this page for the intent of expressing our concerns to the user
of this equipment STRATA 2 GHz Transmitter Unit (TXU) that there exists a radiation hazard
with improper use of this equipment.
The STRATA transmitter with rated 2-WATT RF Power output is designed as an intentional
radiator, as such, this device has been designed to produce and emit radiation into an isotropic
antenna for the purpose of delivering a digitally modulated signal to an appropriate receiving
device.
Due to the low output power of this device in and of itself it poses no such hazard until connected
properly and securely to a properly matched antenna. Therefore it is necessary for the equipment
operator to be made aware of the safe operating parameters of this device. Below is a chart based
on the use of a 5dBi Omni directional antenna. The radiation limits at a distance of below 20cm
exceeds the allowable safe exposure limits. Beyond a distance of 20 cm you will notice that the
usable antenna gain (expressed in dBi) increases logarithmically with distance spherically from
the radiator.
In the case of an antenna with a concentrated beam such as a parabolic antenna, the caution to
exposure levels would be relative to antenna gain and distance only with in the radiation pattern
of the parabola. Notwithstanding, radiation exposure due to antenna inefficiency (side lobe and
front to back emission) although severely reduced should be calculated. A case-by-case analysis
of each antenna that is to be utilized with this device should be investigated.
The intent of this document is to bring awareness to the operator of this device the potential for
hazardous RF exposure limits if improperly used. Microwave Radio Communications Inc.
cautions the user to contact our customer service department to receive exposure data or the
antenna manufacturer to receive the radiation pattern of the antenna if not purchased through
Microwave Radio Communications Inc.
101 Billerica Ave., Bldg. 6
N. Billerica, MA 01862-1256
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

RF radiation exposure levels below 1Mw/cm^2 are permissible levels in accordance with
OET Bulletin 65, Edition 97-01.
The above graph depicts permissible levels at required safe distances from the isotropic radiator. The
incremental gain of the radiator can be increased in accordance with the distance of the human body
removed from the radiator by the corresponding distance in centimeters. As can be observed, the distances
are marginal but notice should be observed never the less.
Radiation Limit for Portable Transmitter at 2WATT (+33dBm)
MPE Based on 5dBi Omni Antenna
mW/cm^2
5dBi Omni
5.02099 -2.007 (Max Allowable Antenna Gain dBi)
2.231555 1.513
1.25525 4.012
0.80336 5.95
0.557889 7.534
0.409877 8.87
0.313812 10.033
0.247951 11.056
0.20084 11.9
0.089262 15.49
Distance cm 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 75

Strata Operations Guide
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Introduction
The Microwave Radio Communications (MRC) Strata system provides a reliable and highly flexible
video microwave transport system. This operations guide provides basic system operations information
and details for hands-on operation of this equipment.
System Description
Figure 1 below shows the overall Strata system architecture for a fully equipped system.
TCU TXU HPU
! NTSC
! PAL
! SDI
! ASI
! IF
RF OUT
RF/DC
Telemetry Telemetry
IF or Baseband Signal
DC Simplex Powering
IN
Dummy Load
12 v to 48 v
DC
RS-232
1.84 MHz OOK Tone
12 v to 48 v
DC
RS-232
Figure 1 – Strata Transmitter System Architecture
The primary system features are:
oLightweight, Modular, Multi-Unit Design
oAnalog, Digital, or Analog/Digital Switchable
oMPEG Encoding (4:2:0, 4:2:2)
oCOFDM Modulation with Selectable Guard Interval
oDigital Modulation for QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM
oNTSC or PAL Modulation with Audio (4 mono or 2 stereo)
oTripod, Half Rack, or Full Rack Mounts
oFront Panel Remote Controlled
oBands from 2 to 15 GHz
oWide Choice of Antennas
Note that the TCU (Transmitter Control Unit) and the TXU (Transmitter Unit) may be operated in a
stand-alone configuration depending on specific video transport applications.
TCU Description
The TCU component can accept a wide variety of signal formats and provide several different output
signal formats. Figure 2 below shows the basic functions of the TCU.

Strata Operations Guide
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MPEG
COFDM
FMT
COAX IN
COFDM
70 MHZ
MONITOR
COAX OUT
SDI
ASI
FMT CV
Filter
! NTSC
! PAL
! SDI
! ASI
! IF
MPEG CV
Telemetry
ASI
70 MHz IF Bypass
Note: Either or both MPEG/COFDM or
FMT boards may be installed
! COFDM
! IF CV
! IF
! ASI
IF CV
ASI Only Mode
Figure 2 - Strata TCU Functional Diagram
Note: The TCU may be supplied with or without the MPEG/COFDM or FMT options.
TXU Description
Like the TCU component, the TXU can accept a wide variety of signal formats but includes an RF up-
converter for use in transporting signals over a microwave radio link. Figure 3 below shows the basic
functions of the TXU.
MPEG
COFDM
FMT
SIGNAL IN
ASI MON
ASI COFDM
70 MHZ
70 MHZ
RF OUT
SDI MPEG
MPEG CV
ASI Input
FMT CV
! NTSC
! PAL
! SDI
! ASI
! IF
Filter
Telemetry
SDI/ASI
IF
CV
IF/RF Up Converter/Amplifier
70 MHz
Figure 3 – Strata TXU Functional Diagram
Note: The TXU may be supplied with or without the MPEG/COFDM or FMT options.

Strata Operations Guide
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HPU Description
For those applications requiring a higher RF output level, the HPU (High Power Unit) may be used to
boost the signal level to between 2 and 12 watts of microwave output power depending on the modulation
format used. Figure 4 below shows the functional architecture of the HPU device.
HPURF IN RF OUT
Figure 4 – HPU Functional Diagram
Theory of Operation
The Strata TX system is comprised of the following primary components:
• Command and Control Power Supply module
• Combiner Circuit
• MPEG encoder/COFDM modulator module (digital mode)
• FMT (FM Transmitter) (analog mode)
• IF/RF Unit
• HPU (High Power Unit)
Note that some or all of these components may be included in a fully functional Strata TX system
depending on specific customer applications, e.g., switchable analog and digital transmitting system, etc.
Where switchable analog and digital video transmission is required, the Strata TX system installs the
digital and analog video modulator modules and the IF/RF module in separate housings. In this case a
TCU (Transmitter Control Unit) houses the MPEG/COFDM, FMT and Combiner circuits with the IF/RF
unit installed in a separate TXU (Transmitter Unit) housing. This arrangement also allows the video
modulation components (TCU) to be physically separated from the IF/RF up-converter by up to 600 feet.
Command and Control Power Supply
The TCU and TXU Command and Control/Power Supply modules contain external and internal
communications circuitry as well as supplying the necessary system voltages. The power supply portion
accepts a wide range DC input voltage (+10.5 to +48 volts) and distributes appropriate output voltages to
the various circuits. The command and control circuits handle inter-module communications and provide
external RS-232 communications to external peripheral equipment, such as a remote control device
(helicopter operation) or to a PC capable of running Windows based configuration software. An on-board
microprocessor manages the system configuration and operation of all modules to which it is connected,
i.e., MPEG/COFDM, FMT, IF/RF modules, etc. In addition, for those applications that employ both
TCU and TXU housings, a communications link superimposed over the inter-connecting IF coaxial cable
provides communications to all system modules. This ensures the TCU and TXU may control each
other’s operation, i.e., permit switching modes of operation, change system presets, etc.

Strata Operations Guide
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Therefore, where both a TCU and TXU are used, total system control may be accomplished using front
panel or remote control from either housing.
MPEG/COFDM Encoder/Modulator
This is the heart of the Strata TX digital mode circuitry. This versatile circuit may be configured to
accept a wide range of digital or analog video and audio signal inputs and provide COFDM (70 MHz), IF
(70 MHz) or ASI video signal outputs. When installed in a TCU housing, the various signal inputs and
outputs are connected through the TCU Combiner circuit where the various signal inputs and outputs are
switched using software controls.
FMT
The optional FMT module accepts standard NTSC or PAL analog video and audio signals and FM
modulates these signals on a 70 MHz carrier. Using the MRC supplied configuration software, four
different audio sub-carrier frequencies may be defined in which up to four standard audio signals may be
transported with the associated video signal. Note that audio deviation levels are software controlled and
must be provisioned at the MRC factory when ordering this option.
TCU
The TCU may house either or both digital and analog video modulation modules. Where a customer
application might initially employ only analog video transmission but anticipates migrating to dual
(switchable) analog and digital operation, the TCU may be upgraded to add the MPEG/COFDM module
to provide this additional capability. Where only digital or analog video transmission is desired, the
MPEG/COFDM or FMT modules may be installed in a TXU housing thereby eliminating the need for a
TCU. Note that the Strata TX design does not permit splitting digital and analog video modulator
modules between a TCU and TXU. A TCU configuration may also include a “stand-alone” option where
either or both MPEG/COFDM and FMT modules may be used independent of the TXU. This
arrangement permits using a TCU equipped with analog and/or digital video modulation modules for a
variety of signal input and signal output configurations, including a digital option using NTSC or PAL
composite video input and ASI (digital) signal output.
TXU
The TXU always houses the IF/RF module, which accepts either a 70 MHz COFDM, FMT IF, or external
70 MHz input signal and up-converts these signals to the appropriate RF band. The RF frequency
synthesizer circuit included in the IF/RF unit, along with the command and control module, provide the
means to channelize RF video and audio signals in the 2 GHz RF band. Standard U.S. FCC band plans,
as well as customer created channel plans, may be accommodated using the Strata TX Windows based
configuration software. As noted above, the TXU may also include either an MPEG/COFDM or FMT
module (but not both) in which case the TXU serves as a stand-alone digital or analog video microwave
transmission system.
HPU
The optional HPU (High Power Unit) is designed to work with a companion TXU in which case RF
output signals from the TXU are connected to the RF input jack of the HPU. In the case of analog
microwave transmission, the RF output of the TXU is amplified operating the HPU RF amplifier in the
non-linear region (saturated) providing RF output levels at the 12 watt level (+41 dBm). In the case
where COFDM RF signals are used, software controlled back-off attenuation is applied to operate the
HPU RF amplifier in the linear region.

Strata Operations Guide
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These back-off levels are carefully measured and configured as part of MRC factory adjustment
procedures and ensure digital mode RF output signals provide optimum performance. Therefore,
depending on what digital mode modulation format is selected, i.e., QPSK, 16 QAM or 64 QAM, or if an
HPU is used, previously configured transmitter back-off levels are applied to ensure the Strata TX RF
output signals operate with minimum Inter-Modulation Distortion (IMD). These carefully measured and
configured transmitter back-off levels are stored in the TXU IF/RF unit and are applied depending on
which particular operating mode is selected. Typical digital mode RF levels vary from 5 watts to 2 watts
output depending mostly on the modulation format selected.
Overall Operational Details
The following details apply when operating the Strata system using either the TCU or TXU front panel
controls:
1. When companion TXU or TCU devices are inter-connected via coaxial cables, an inter-unit telemetry
link is established. This feature allows overall system operation and configuring to be accomplished
from either the TCU or TXU devices if both are used. For example, the microwave transmitter may
be keyed ON or OFF from either device.
2. A configuration software tool (Strata TX Configurator) may be used to review and modify certain
system configuration options as described in this document.
Special Note: All radio systems leaving the MRC factory are adjusted per standard industry (default)
settings, i.e., video and audio levels versus FM deviation (analog), as well as digital and analog IF and RF
levels, etc. In addition, transmitter back-off (IMD) and analog audio levels are carefully adjusted using
special software tools. Many of these settings are software controlled and cannot be adjusted in the field.
How to View Configuration Parameters and Control the TCU/TXU Units from the Front Panel
Figure 5 below shows the basic TCU/TXU control functionality using the front panel control switch:

Strata Operations Guide
- 7 -
Display Monitor Screen Push to Select
Rotate to Change Push to Select
Figure 5 – Front Panel Switch Control
TCU/TXU Front Panel Control Settings
The front panel control switch is used to select a limited number of front panel control functions. Rotating
the switch counterclockwise allows access to mode selection choices, while rotating the switch clockwise
allows access to monitoring the current mode of operation. The plunger action of the switch is used to
select the appropriate mode of operation. The TXU and associated HPU (High Power Unit), if equipped,
is keyed ON or OFF by compressing and holding the front panel control switch for one second from any
menu page. The Strata TX system is transmitting when the front panel blue “XMIT” LED is illuminated.
When the menu display is inactive for more than 7 seconds, the display will revert back to the main menu.
The following front panel control selections are available:
• Set RF Channel
• Change Preset – Presets #1 to #9
• Set Power Out – HPU attenuation control
• HPU Present
• 75 Ohm Coax DC Power ON/OFF – Coaxial cable DC power ON/OFF control
Note: The remainder of front panel selections allow monitoring previously configured parameters and
system status, including alarm indications, power output, etc.
Details related to the use of Strata TX front panel controls are found on the following page.

Strata Operations Guide
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RF Channel Select
The radio is pre-programmed with a number of RF channel frequencies associated with up to 9 preset
configurations. Use this feature to monitor the currently configured RF frequencies. Note: If these
frequencies are known as part of a customer order, they may be factory set to customer requirements or
added or modified per customer request.
Select Preset Setting
Used to select a pre-configured configuration. Up to 9 different configurations may be stored and
configured in conjunction with the Strata TX Configurator utility.
Set Attenuation Value (Transmitter Back Off Level)
Used to set the transmitter output power (and linear operating point) of the radio system. Adjustable from
0 to 31 dB in 1 dB increments. Push to select.
Note: Maximum power output occurs with 0 dB of attenuation applied.
75 Ohm Coax ON/OFF
Used to activate or de-activate DC powering a TCU or TXU through the inter-connecting IF coaxial
cable.
Front Panel Transmitter Power Monitoring
The current TX output power reading available on the front panel may be used as a general reference and
is accurate to within +/- 1 dB.
HPU Present
Identifies and configures use of the HPU option connected to the TXU device.
Please see the front panel menu guide on the following page for details related to front panel operation.

Strata Operations Guide
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Preset #1
HPU In C9
@ DC Power Up
Change Preset
Preset #1
Set Channel
Ch 9
HPU Coax
HPU Present
75 Ohm Coax
Power On
2475.500 MHz
HPU Off C9
Mode
COFDM - IF
Video Delay
Normal
MPEG Audio A
Analog Stereo
Color Bar Off
Pilot Off
Control Menu Access
Scroll Menu Button to Left - Push to Select
Turn Transmitter ON from
any menu screen -
Push
menu button in for 1 second
Blue TX light ON
Control Menu Access:
Scroll Menu Button to Right to Monitor
Caution: Enables HPU operation and DC
voltage on coax (from the TXU) when
transmitting - push to activate or deactivate
HPU.
Caution: This function enables DC voltage to
flow between the TCU and TXU on the IF
coax cable - push to turn On and Off.
RF Configuration status
(Pout level - TXU only)
COFDM Config Status
with bit rate flashing
MPEG Audio A
Config Status
Video Input Status &
MPEG Chroma
Color Bar & Pilot
Status Indicator
Caution: DC ouput voltage from TXU is slaved
to the blue light condition shown as the "HPU
In" condition when transmitting.
1) Push to activate
2) Rotate to change
3) Push to select
QPSK 8MHz
FEC 1/2 GI 1/8
NTSC
Video In 4:2:0
Video Input error -
flashes w/no video
Mode
Analog - IF Mode COFDM ASI In
Mode
Ext IF Input
Audio #1 On
Pre 4.83MHz
Audio #2 On
Flat 6.20MHz
Audio #3 Off
Pre 6.80MHz
Audio #4 Off
Pre 7.20MHz
Vid Dev 4MHz
Pre 525L In
QPSK 8MHz
FEC 1/2 GI 1/8
Color Bar Off
Pilot Off
MPEG Audio B
Config Status
Mode
MPEG Output
NTSC
Vid In 4:2:0
Video Delay
Normal
MPEG Audio A
Analog Stereo
MPEG Audio B
Analog Stereo
Color Bar Off
Monitor Menus
A Function of IF Mode Selection
Note:
For helicopter applications the channel select will be included with the
preset conditions.
*
Presetable Parameters
Video Input Chroma
Delay Mode FEC
ASI Output COFDM Bandwidth
BISS - On/Off Guard Interval
BISS Key Modulation
Audio Input Conditions A & B VBI - On/Off
Audio Mode Conditions
Color Bars/Pilot Condition - Service Name/Network Name
IF Mode of Operation
Analog Audio Subcarrier On/Off
A
nalo
g
Audio Subcarrier Fre
q
uenc
y
MPEG Audio B
Analog Stereo
Video delay
ASI Bit Rate
10.2000 Mbs
Set Power Out
Atten 0 dB
Note: Last operational state will be saved on power down.
1) Push to activate
2) Rotate to change
3) Push to select - up to 9 presets
1) Push to activate
2) Rotate to change
3) Push to select - 0 -31 dB values
back to main
menu after set
back to main
menu after set
( Default to Main Menu after 7 seconds of inactivity)
Pilot Off
Strata Front Panel Operation
*
Error Page
Error Page Error Page
Refer to MID errors
Strata Front Panel Guide Diagram

Strata Operations Guide
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Supported Strata TX System Configuration Options
The following information may be used to identify which Strata TX system options may be used for
specific customer applications.
TCU Supported Signal Options
Hardware Option Signal Input Signal Output Monitor Out Notes
* MPEG/COFDM Only NTSC/PAL ASI Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM Only SDI (525/625) ASI Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM Only NTSC/PAL COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM Only SDI (525/625) COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM Only ASI COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM Only IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode
FMT Only NTSC/PAL IF CV IF CV NTSC/PAL CV IF
FMT Only IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL ASI Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT SDI (525/625) ASI Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL IF CV IF CV NTSC/PAL IF
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT SDI (525/625) COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT ASI COFDM - IF ASI or COFDM Various formats
* MPEG/COFDM + FMT IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode
Notes:
* = ASI output possible when TCU used in stand-alone (MPEG only) mode
TXU Supported Signal Options
Hardware Option Signal Input Signal Output Notes
MPEG/COFDM Option NTSC/PAL COFDM - RF Various formats
MPEG/COFDM Option SDI (525/625) COFDM - RF Various formats
MPEG/COFDM Option ASI COFDM - RF Various formats
MPEG/COFDM Option IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal
FMT Option NTSC/PAL CV - RF NTSC/PAL CV Channelized RF
FMT Option IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal
No options installed IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal
Note: TXU supports either MPEG/COFDM option or FMT option, but not both.

Strata Operations Guide
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Configuring the Radio System using the TCU/TXU Serial Port and the
“Strata TX Configurator” Software Utility
Basic Strata TX Configuration Details
The following basic system configuration settings may be administered using the Strata TX Configurator
software utility.
• COFDM IF Mode – 70 MHz COFDM IF output from the internal COFDM/MPEG board supplied to
output and monitor ports (to TXU if present).
• IF Input – 70 MHz IF input signal from input connector routed through TCU to TXU (if present).
• ASI Input – Bypasses internal MPEG encoder and routes an externally supplied ASI stream to the
monitor and output connectors (to TXU if present).
• MPEG ASI Output – supplies a DVB ASI transport stream to the signal output connector and the
monitor output connector. Note: This mode is only accessed when the TCU is operated in a stand-
alone configuration.
• Analog Audio/Video – Routes 70 MHz FM output to TXU (if present). This mode is only supported
with the FMT option installed.
• DVB-S – This operational mode uses a single carrier modulator scheme and supplies a 70 MHz IF
output to the signal output connector and the monitor output connector, only operational for QPSK
and 16 QAM. Note: This mode is currently not supported in the current software release.
• RF Frequency
Used to select an RF frequency from 1.99 GHz – 2.50 GHz (up to 5 decimal places).
• Modulation Type
Used to select each digital modulation mode for COFDM operation and DVB-S mode (when
applicable) – QPSK, 16 QAM, 64 QAM. Note: 64 QAM modulation may not be used in the DVB-S
mode of operation.
• FEC Type
Used to select each FEC (Forward Error Correction) scheme to be used – (1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8).
• COFDM Guard Interval
Used to select the individual Guard Interval for COFDM operation only – 1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4.
• COFDM Bandwidth
Used to select COFDM bandwidth operation – 6 MHz, 7 MHz, or 8 MHz.
• Video Input
Used to select the necessary video input for the MPEG encoder from the following selections:
NTSC composite video, PAL composite video, SDI – 525 line, SDI – 625 line.
• Chroma
Used to select MPEG chroma profile – 4:2:0 (420 profile @ main level), 4:2:2 (422 profile @ main
level).
• Color bars
Used to turn the internal color bars generator ON, OFF or place in AUTO mode – (used in IF digital
modes only). Color bars will display a user programmed Service Name parameter if applied. Video
input is bypassed when ON. Auto mode will insert color bars when no video input is detected

Strata Operations Guide
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Audio Input – A
Used to select the following audio operational modes for MPEG encoder A input:
• OFF – Audio transport stream is not generated and enabled
• Test Tone – An internal 800 Hz test tone is enabled.
• Analog Mono – Two independent mono audio channels are enabled.
• Analog Stereo – Left and right audio channels are enabled.
• SDI Embedded Mono – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.
• SDI Embedded Stereo – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.
• AES/EBU Mono – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.
• AES/EBU Stereo – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.
Audio Input – B
Used to select the following audio operational modes for MPEG encoder B input:
• OFF – Audio transport stream is not generated and enabled
• Test Tone – An internal 800 Hz test tone is enabled.
• Analog Mono – Two independent mono audio channels are enabled.
• Analog Stereo – Left and right audio channels are enabled.
• SDI Embedded Mono – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.
• SDI Embedded Stereo – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.
• AES/EBU Mono – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.
• AES/EBU Stereo – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.
Audio Notes:
A) 48 KHz sampling is used for all audio (384 Kbits per stereo channel).
B) When using Alteia IRD with Audio A ON and Audio B OFF, Audio A is duplicated on Audio B
output XLR connectors.
C) When using Alteia IRD and 4 audio signals, the preferred language setting for Audio B must
differ from Audio A for decoding audio transport streams, e.g., set for Spanish.
Frequency Control Modes
The Strata TX system permits two different frequency control modes. The two frequency control modes
are:
Frequency-Locked-to-Presets
Frequency-Unlocked-to-Presets
Definition of Frequency-Locked-to-Presets mode - In this mode, each preset is assigned an operating
frequency as channelized in a channel assignment table. The channel assignment table is normally
populated with the standard U.S. 2 GHz standard band plan channels, i.e., channels versus frequency, but
may have some or all channel assignments, e.g., channel +4, changed by the user to accommodate non-
standard frequencies (so long as they are in the specified band and a multiple of the frequency synthesizer
step frequency). Note that the user may modify the channel versus frequency table using the Strata TX
Configurator software utility. Hence in this mode of operation, selection of any one of 9 presets may, and
normally would, have an associated frequency (channel) locked to the selected preset.

Strata Operations Guide
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NOTE: Even though each preset in a system configured to operate in the Frequency-Locked-to-Preset
mode has a pre-assigned frequency, the user may temporarily dial in a new channel (frequency) from the
front panel which will remain in effect until, (1) the unit is power-cycled, or (2) a new preset is selected.
Either condition will automatically select the frequency associated with the current preset, i.e., revert back
to the pre-assigned frequency associated with the current preset.
Definition of Frequency-Unlocked-to-Presets mode: In this mode, no channel (frequency) is
associated with or locked to any preset. Regardless of all other preset configuration parameters, the last
selected frequency (channel) will be the frequency used for all presets. To change the frequency (while
any preset is selected), the front panel control is used to select a new (channelized) frequency. The last
frequency selected will remain programmed as the current (default) frequency until changed by the user
using the front panel control. Turning the system power off and back on or selecting a new preset will not
change the currently selected frequency.
Remember, the selection of frequency control modes, i.e., frequency locked to presets, or frequency
unlocked to presets, cannot be changed in the field.
Preparations
The following preparations should be completed prior to attempting to configure the Strata TX radio
system using a serial data connection:
Establish serial data connections to and from the radio system. See the sketch below for details on how to
connect a PC to the Strata TX radio system.
PC Null Modem Connection Strata TCU or TXU
Figure 5 – Serial Data Connection Details
Notes:
• A serial data connection may be made to either a TCU or TXU pair so long as the TCU and the TXU
are inter-connected with a coaxial cable (enables system telemetry link and permits simplex powering
of adjacent units). Both units must be powered ON.
• Use a standard 9 pin RS-232 serial data “null” modem connection (DTE-to-DTE configuration)
between the PC and the radio unit(s) as shown in Figure 5. above. Recommended serial data cable
length not to exceed 50 feet.
• The system being configured should be interconnected as it will be used, i.e., all units inter-connected
properly with the appropriate RF termination connected to either the TXU or HPU RF output
connector. Note that some applications may use a TCU or TXU in a “stand-alone” mode.

Strata Operations Guide
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TCU TXU HPU
! NTSC
! PAL
! SDI
! ASI
! IF
RF OUT
RF/DC
Telemetry Telemetry
IF or Baseband Signal
DC Simplex Powering
IN
Dummy Load
12 v to 48 v
DC
RS-232
1.84 MHz OOK Tone
12 v to 48 v
DC
RS-232
Typical Strata System Configuration Setup
Strata TX Powering Options and Cautions
Note the following recommended Strata system powering options and rules.
1. TCU stand-alone powering: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC.
2. TXU stand-alone powering: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC.
3. TCU and TXU adjacent: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC. *
4. TCU separated from TXU/HPU (TXU supplying power): +48 volts DC (for distances > 100 feet). **
5. TCU separated from TXU/HPU (TCU supplying power): +24 volts (minimum). ***
Notes:
* When powering adjacent TCU/TXU configurations, apply power to both TCU and TXU units.
** Special rules apply for longer distance separation applications depending on coaxial cable type,
distance and whether an HPU is used.
*** Necessary to reduce current drain over IF coaxial cable – recommend +48 volts.

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* * * CAUTION * * *
DC Voltages Present on Coaxial Cable
Center Conductors
Use Caution
For those Strata TX configurations that employ 2 or 3 modules, e.g., TCU + TXU
+ HPU, etc., the TCU and/or TXU may be used to power adjacent modules by
superimposing DC voltage on the interconnecting coaxial cable center conductor.
This feature is activated using the Strata TX front panel controls and remains in
effect until subsequently modified by the user. The voltages involved range from
+ 12 to + 48 volts DC (DC input voltage).
To avoid damaging radio and test equipment input circuitry, be certain you either
remove or isolate superimposed DC voltages from interconnecting coaxial cables
where necessary to protect externally connected equipment.
In the case of the TXU-to-HPU RF coaxial cable connection, the center conductor
will have DC voltages superimposed on the RF cable center conductor in order to
power the HPU. If the TXU RF output is connected directly to an antenna or test
equipment, be certain to disable the HPU On feature and therefore remove the DC
voltage superimposed on the TXU RF output.
The Strata TCU “Signal In” BNC connector on the rear of the TCU module is
susceptible to damage if DC is present on the center conductor. Take care that the
TXU-to-TCU interconnecting coaxial cable (if used) is not inadvertently connected
to the “Signal In” connector instead of the “Signal Out” connector. Please see the
image on the following page for additional details.

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TCU “Signal In” Connection – not DC isolated
Note:
To minimize the potential for damaging the TCU signal input circuitry, the “Signal Out” jack rear panel
BNC connector has been changed to a TNC type connector. Users are cautioned not to use a TNC-to-
BNC adapter on the TCU “Signal Out” jack to circumvent this protection feature. Each Strata TX system
that includes TXU and TCU modules is shipped with a short BNC-to-TNC coaxial cable assembly for
interconnecting TXU and TCU modules. For those system applications that require separating the TXU
and TCU over longer distances, users are advised to use a BNC “barrel” adapter on the BNC end of the
supplied coaxial cable assembly.

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Step-by-Step Procedure
Use the following Strata configuration procedure when verifying or configuring the Strata TX system
using the Strata TX Configurator software over a local or remote serial data link.
1. Install the Strata Configurator software per instructions supplied with the software. This software is
designed to operate properly on Windows 32 bit operating systems, e.g., Windows 98/NT/2000/ or
XP operating systems.
2. Connect the PC serial port to the TCU or TXU per Figure 5. above. Apply the appropriate DC power
to the Strata TX radio system and operate the front panel power switch(s) to ON.
3. Start the Strata Configurator application. You should see the following main menu appear:
4. Click on the “Connect to Radio” control. The following dialog is presented.

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5. Enter 1or 2 depending on which PC serial data (RS-232) COM port is being used.
Note: If the Strata TX Configurator application is unable to open a valid serial data port or an invalid
number is entered, you will receive the following error dialog:
If you are unable to open a serial port or establish a valid serial port connection to a Strata TX radio
system, exit the application and attempt to determine the difficulty and try again.
6. Assuming a valid serial data connection is established with a Strata TX radio system, you should see
the main Customer screen display with all front panel controls activated as shown below.
7. Next use the “Load Settings From Radio” function to retrieve the current Strata TX radio
configuration. It is recommended you store this configuration to a file using the “Save Settings to
File” function especially when any modifications have been made to the current radio settings.
8. Access the Global, COFDM, MPEG Video, MPEG Audio, FMT and RF Settings menus by clicking
on the appropriate menu tabs. The channel frequency settings found in the “Channel Plan” tab are
only accessible for systems that do not include the “Frequencies Locked to Presets” option.