Nautel VSHD Exciter User manual

VSHD Exciter
FOR USE WITH VS SERIES
TRANSMITTERS
Technical Instruction Manual
Issue 2.0 .......... 04 May 2017
Nautel Limited
10089 Peggy's Cove Road,
Hackett's Cove, NS, Canada B3Z 3J4
T.877 6 nautel (628835) or +1.902.823.2233
F.+1.902.823.3183 [e-mail]
U.S. customers please contact:
Nautel Inc.
201 Target Industrial Circle, Bangor ME 04401
T.877 6 nautel (628835) or +1.207.947.8200
F.+1.207.947.3693 [e-mail]
e-mail: [e-mail]
www.nautel.com
Copyright 2017 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
Warranty
by Nautel Limited/Nautel Inc. (herein after referred to as Nautel)
Nautel guarantees all mechanical and electrical parts of Nautel Transmitters for a period of
forty eight months, and all other Nautel manufactured equipment (including Importers and
Exporters) for a period of twelve months from date of shipment, provided the equipment has
been installed, operated and maintained in accordance with Nautel’s recommendations, and
the equipment has not been misused, neglected or modified. Nautel's liability is limited, at the
absolute discretion of Nautel, to repairing or replacing returned equipment that to the
satisfaction of Nautel has been found defective.
Warranty for third-party items is provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Exercise of
such warranty shall be between the Buyer and the Third-Party.
1. Properly qualified technical personnel must install, maintain, and repair the equipment in accordance with
Nautel recommendations and good engineering practice.
2. A "Part Failure" shall be deemed to have occurred when the part has become defective, or does not have the
characteristics required for the specified equipment performance:
a. when the equipment is operated within the design parameters, and
b. when the equipment is installed and adjusted according to Nautel's prescribed procedures as stated in the
instruction manual.
3. Nautel shall provide replacements for all "Parts" to the Buyer when they become defective during the warranty
period, and upon the return of the defective part. Replacement parts warranty to be 90 days or end of original
warranty; whichever comes first.
4. If the Buyer receives a replacement module, as part of Nautel’s module exchange program, the old module
must be returned to Nautel within 30 days of receipt of the new module, at the buyers expense. If the old
module is not received after 30 days, the customer will be invoiced. The buyer is responsible for installing the
replacement/repaired module in the transmitter.
5. In the event that a "Part" fails during the warranty period and causes damage to a subassembly which cannot
be readily repaired in the field, the entire subassembly so damaged may be returned to Nautel for repair. The
repairs will be made without charge to the Buyer.
6. Written authorization must be obtained before returning any equipment or goods for any reason. Equipment or
goods returned under this warranty shall be delivered to Nautel's premises at the Buyer’s expense. Where no-
charge warranty replacements or repairs are provided under items 2, 3, 4, or 5, Nautel will pay that part of the
shipping costs incurred in returning the part/assembly to the Buyer. Note: the Buyer is responsible for any and
all import fees, duties or taxes.
7. Nautel does not warrant or guarantee, and will not be liable for:
a. defects or failures caused in whole or in part by abuse, misuse, unauthorized repair attempts,
unauthorized alteration or modification of the equipment;
b. equipment built to customer specifications that is later found not to meet customer needs or expectation;
c. performance of equipment when it is used in combination with other equipment not purchased, specified,
or approved by Nautel;
d. damages and performance limitations due to outside forces such as lightning, excessive heat or cold,
excessive AC surges or high corrosive environments;
e. changes made by personnel other than Nautel authorized personnel, including charges incurred; and
f. for any costs for labor performed by the customer without Nautel’s prior written approval.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
8. Nautel does not warrant that software:
a. is free of errors, bugs or defects;
b. will be compatible with third party software;
c. results, output or data provided through or generated by the software are accurate, complete, or reliable;
and
d. errors found will be corrected.
9. Nautel shall have the right and shall be provided full access to investigate whether failures have been caused
by factors beyond its control.
10. In no event shall Nautel be liable for any consequential damages arising from the use of this equipment
11. This warranty is in lieu of all other express warranties of Nautel, whether express or implied, and Nautel does
not assume, nor is any other person authorized to assume on Nautel's behalf, any other obligation or liability.
12. Third party items ordered, the guarantee/warranty of these items will be from the manufacturer of these items.
Exercise of such warranty shall be between the Buyer and the third party provider.
13. Nautel provides telephone and email support for its products for the life of the product at no charge. After the
warranty period, parts and on-site support for the equipment are offered at a rate to be determined upon
request.
Customer Service Notice
A ‘Technical Assistance’ and ‘Plug-in Module Exchange’ service is available to Nautel users.
All equipment being returned to Nautel and all requests for repairs or replacements should be marked with a Nautel
provided RMA number and addressed to the appropriate Nautel facility:
Nautel Limited
10089 Peggy's Cove Road
Hackett's Cove, NS, Canada B3Z 3J4
Tel: [phone]/Fax: [phone]
24 Hour Answering Service [phone]
Nautel Inc.
201 Target Industrial Circle
Bangor, ME, USA 04401
Tel: [phone]/Fax: [phone]
Toll Free [phone]

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
Factory Support
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Nautel's field service department provides telephone technical assistance on a 24 hour, seven days a week basis. Requests by other
media (facsimile or e-mail) will be responded to the next working day if received after Nautel's normal working hours. Contact the
appropriate field service centre from the following:
U.S.A. customers use: Nautel Incorporated T. [phone] (24 hours) or 877 6 nautel (628835)
201 Target Industrial Circle F. [phone]
Bangor, Maine 04401
All other customers use: Nautel Limited T. [phone] (24 hours) or 877 6 nautel (628835)
10089 Peggy’s Cove Road, F. [phone]
Hackett’s Cove, NS, Canada E-Mail [e-mail]
B3Z 3J4 Web www.nautel.com
MODULE EXCHANGE SERVICE
In order to provide Nautel customers with a fast and efficient service in the event of a problem, Nautel operates a factory rebuilt,
module exchange service which takes full advantage of the high degree of module redundancy in Nautel equipment. This module
exchange service is operated from Nautel’s factory in Bangor, Maine and Hackett’s Cove, Nova Scotia. These two locations allow
us to provide a quick turn around service to keep our customers on the air. During the transmitter’s warranty period, up to thirteen
months from shipment, repair and exchange of modules is at no charge to the customer. When the warranty has expired, a
charge of 80% of the list price for all exchanged modules is made. If the faulty module is returned to Nautel within 30 days, a
credit is issued reducing this charge by one half to 40% of the list price. U.S.A. customers are required to contact our Bangor,
Maine facility. Canadian and overseas customers should contact our Nova Scotia, Canada facility.
EQUIPMENT BEING RETURNED TO NAUTEL
For all equipment being returned to Nautel and all requests for repairs or replacements:
•Obtain an RMA number from Nautel (you must have an RMA number to return equipment)
•Mark the item as 'field return'
•Mark the item with the RMA number assigned by Nautel
•Address the item to the appropriate Nautel facility
Complete and accurate information regarding the equipment being returned will ensure prompt attention and will expedite the dispatch of
replacements. Refer to the nameplate on the transmitter and/or the appropriate module/assembly to obtain name, type, part and serial number
information. Refer to the parts list of this manual or the appropriate service instruction manual for additional ordering information.
The following information should accompany each request:
* Model of Equipment
* Serial number of Equipment
* Name of Part/Assembly
Serial number of Part/Assembly
* Complete reference designation of Part/Assembly
* Nautel's part number of Part/Assembly
* OEM's part number of Part/Assembly
Number of hours in Use
Nature of defect
* Return shipping address
* Denotes minimum information required to order spare/replacement parts

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
Information to the User
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case
the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
Contents Page
1 OVERVIEW
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1-1
1.2 FACTORY SUPPORT 1-2
1.3 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF MANUAL 1-2
1.4 PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT 1-2
1.5 MECHANICAL DESCRIPTION 1-2
1.6 COOLING REQUIREMENTS 1-2
1.7 TRANSMITTER HARDWARE
MODIFICATIONS 1-3
2 INSTALLATION
2.1 ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS 2-1
2.2 NON-TECHNICAL PRE-COMMISSIONING 2-1
2.3 TECHNICAL PRE-COMMISSIONING 2-8
2.3.1 Electrical Power Connection 2-8
2.3.2 Safety Ground Point Connection 2-8
2.3.3 Program Input Connections 2-8
2.3.4 VSHD Exciter/VS Transmitter Connections 2-13
2.3.5 LAN Connection 2-13
2.4 COMMISSIONING PROCEDURE 2-14
2.4.1 Turn-On Prerequisites 2-14
2.4.2 Initial Turn 2-14
3 OPERATION
3.1 USER INTERFACE 3-1
3.1.1 Viewing Tool Menu Panels (AUI only) 3-1
3.1.2 Managing Presets 3-7
3.1.3 Changing System Settings 3-14
3.1.4 Configuring RF Drive Source 3-19
3.1.5 Front Panel Indicators 3-19
3.1.6 Exgine Web Interface 3-20
3.2 SOFTWARE UPGRADES 3-23
4 MAINTENANCE
4.1 GENERAL 4-1
4.2 BATTERY REPLACEMENT 4-1
4.3 EXCITER PWB REPLACEMENT 4-2
5 PARTS LISTS 5-1
6 WIRING INFORMATION 6-1
7 ELECTRICAL SCHEMATICS AND ASSEMBLY
DETAIL DRAWINGS 7-1

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
List of Tables
2-1 Packing Supplies, VSHD Exciter Nautel part # 211-8981-01 2-2
3-1a RF Output Maximum TPO (MER Priority, MP1) 3-11
3-1b RF Output Maximum TPO (Efficiency Priority, MP1) 3-11
3-1b HD Maximum Output TPO (MP1) 3-12
3-2 RF Output Minimum Power Ratings (MP1) 3-12
5-1 Manufacturers’ Code Index 5-1
6-1 Wiring Lists Provided 6-1
7-1 List of Drawings 7-2
List of Figures/Drawings
1-1 VSHD Exciter 1-1
2-1 Parts required for Installation 2-3
2-2 Slider Assembly Release 2-4
2-3 Rack Slider Assembly 2-4
2-4 Slider Assembly to Rack Mount 2-5
2-5 Installing Nut Retainers 2-5
2-6 Mounting the Slides 2-6
2-7 Mounting the VSHD Exciter 2-7
2-8 VSHD Exciter - Rear View 2-9
3-1 Tool Menu Options 3-1
3-2 AM-AM Correction 3-2
3-3 AM-PM Correction 3-3
3-4 Power Distribution Graph 3-4
3-5 Signal Constellation 3-5
3-6 Oscilloscope 3-6
3-7 Presets Page – General tab 3-7
3-8 Presets Page – Other Settings tab 3-9
3-9 Preset Editing Menu 3-11
3-10 IBOC Mode Screen 3-12
3-11 IBOC Settings Menu 3-12
3-12 IBOC Settings Editing Screens 3-13
3-13 System Settings Page – IBOC Settings 3-14
3-14 System Settings Page – Spectrum/Efficiency Optimizer 3-15
3-15 Front Panel UI HD Optimizer Menu 3-16
3-16 HD Optimizer Screen 3-17
3-17 User Settings – Exgine Settings 3-18
3-18 RF Drive Source Screen 3-19
3-19 VSHD Front Panel Indicators 3-19
3-20 Statistics tab 3-21
3-21 Status tab 3-21
3-22 Alarms tab 3-22
3-23 Configuration tab 3-22
3-24 Maintenance tab 3-23
4-1 Removing the XLR connector’s “push” lever 4.2
4-2 Loosening the BNC connector’s locking ring 4-3

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual May.4.17
Release Control Record
Issue Date Reason
2.0 4 May 2017 New hardware release of product
(NAE103B)

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual Page 1-1
Section 1 Overview Issue 2.0
VSHD Exciter
TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Section 1 OVERVIEW
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The VSHD exciter (see Figure 1-1) provides a high quality VHF, frequency modulated, RF
signal, designed to integrate with a VS series transmitter for IBOC transmission in either all-
digital or hybrid modes. The VSHD exciter is frequency agile, requires no tuning for operation
between 87.5 MHz and 108 MHz, and is capable of operation up to 50 W (in analog mode).
Using 'direct-to-channel' conversion of the audio, the VSHD exciter provides superior signal
reproduction and eliminates problems related to aging, microphonics, and filtering. Audio
source options include AES/EBU (XLR), analog L/R, two modulated SCA inputs, two
unmodulated SCA inputs, RBDS/RDS generator, and composite (balanced or unbalanced).
The VSHD also accepts an internet playlist as a backup audio stream from the VS transmitter
via a secondary AES/EBU input and provided cable.
The VSHD exciter has no user interface. It is controlled, locally or remotely, via the
associated VS series transmitter’s front panel display or remote AUI. Operation of additional
menu screens and selection options that are not included in the VS transmitter’s technical
documentation are covered in this manual.
The VSHD exciter can be purchased and shipped with a VS series transmitter or provided as
an HD upgrade. In the case of an upgrade, Nautel provides the Exgine hardware and DTS
(formerly iBiquity Digital Radio) software required to broadcast your signal in HD.
Refer to Section 6 of this manual for electrical schematics of the VSHD exciter and VS
transmitters that outline the electrical differences when configured for HD operation.
Figure 1-1: VSHD Exciter

Page 1-2 VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual
Issue 2.0 Section 1 Overview
1.2 FACTORY SUPPORT
Nautel provides after sales factory support. Technical assistance is available on a 24 hour,
seven days a week basis. A factory service facility for repair of modules/assemblies is also
available. Refer to the Factory Support portion of the Warranty pages at the front of this
manual for additional information.
1.3 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF MANUAL
This manual provides the information required to install, operate and maintain the exciter.
1.4PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT
The VSHD exciter is intended for use in conventional FM and/or HD Radio broadcasting
stations. Remote control facilities are incorporated to allow unattended operation from a
remotely located station studio.
1.5MECHANICAL DESCRIPTION
The VSHD exciter is contained in a standard 19-inch rack mountable unit.
1.5.1 Dimensions
The VSHD exciter is an EIA standard rack mountable unit that measures 19 inches (483 mm)
wide, 3.5 inches (89 mm) high (2RU), and 22 inches (559 mm) deep. All VS transmitter
interconnections and user interface connections are made on the rear panel of the exciter.
1.5.2 Clearances
Ensure that the clearances at the front and the rear of the VSHD exciter’s host cabinet allow
sufficient room for easy installation and operation. Allow sufficient clearance on the sides of
the VSHD exciter for adequate ventilation.
CAUTION
Do not block the vents in the side of the VSHD exciter. This is especially important in higher
ambient temperature environments.
1.5.3 Weights
The VSHD exciter weighs approximately 19 lbs (8.6 kg).
1.6COOLING REQUIREMENTS
The maximum chassis temperature of the VSHD exciter must not exceed 50°C (122°F). To
satisfy this requirement:
Do not allow the VSHD exciter’s room ambient air temperature to exceed 40°C
(104°F) at sea level. De-rate 3ºC (5.4ºF) per 500 m – or 2ºC (3.6ºF) per 1,000 feet –
above sea level.
Example:
At 1,600 m (1 mile) above sea level, the maximum ambient temperature should not
exceed 30.4°C (87°F). Cooler temperatures are recommended, in order to improve
the reliability of VSHD exciter.
If the VSHD exciter is used in high ambient temperature environments, make sure
that all of its ventilation holes are completely free of blockage.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual Page 1-3
Section 1 Overview Issue 2.0
1.7 TRANSMITTER HARDWARE MODIFICATIONS
To operate in IBOC mode, the VS transmitter had to be modified from its original
configuration to work with the VSHD exciter. RF drive for the VS transmitter system is
provided by the VSHD Exciter for IBOC operation. The following modifications were
implemented for VS transmitters at the factory prior to shipping or via modifications defined in
the associated Information Sheet or Field Modification if an HD upgrade was performed in
the field. Refer to following documents:
IS11004 (VS1)
IS11005 (VS2.5)
FM11005 (VS300)
VS300
The Pre-Amplifier (A4) must be bypassed during IBOC operation. This is accomplished by
removing the RF drive cable connecting the Pre-amp to the Power Amplifier. For pre-
correction to work properly, an 8 dB Attenuator assembly (A9) has been installed between
the RF Drive of the VSHD Exciter and the Power Amplifier.
The Power Amplifier (A5) has L1 on the PA PWB removed for proper IBOC operation.
VS1
The internal RF drive cable that connects to RF Output (J14) of the Exciter/Control PWB (A1)
has been re-routed to the external RF drive connector on the rear panel of the VS1. The IPA
output cable has been disconnected from the Splitter PWB (A4) at pads ‘S’ and ‘R’ and tied
back. The RF drive cable from the Pre-Amp/IPA PWB (A5).has been re-routed to the Splitter
PWB (A4) at pads ‘S’ and ‘R’.
Power amplifiers A6 through A9 have L1 removed on all PA PWB’s for proper IBOC
operation.
VS2.5
The internal RF drive cable that connects to RF Output (J14) of the Exciter/Control PWB (A1)
has been re-routed to the external RF drive connector on the rear panel of the VS2.5. The
IPA output cable has been disconnected from the Splitter PWB (A4J8) and tied back. The RF
Drive cable at the Splitter input (A4J7) has been re-routed to A4J8.
Refer to Electrical Schematics, Figures 6-2 to 6-7 in Section 6.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual Page 2-1
Section 2 Installation Issue 2.0
VSHD Exciter
TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Section 2 INSTALLATION
2.1 ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Consider the following requirements when preparing to install the VSHD exciter.
2.1.1Work Area
Nautel recommends that you provide a suitable work area with an adequate table surface
adjacent to the VSHD exciter or host cabinet to permit bench adjustment/repair.
2.2 NON-TECHNICAL PRE-COMMISSIONING
On delivery of the VSHD exciter, complete the following non-technical procedures:
NOTE
Non-technical procedures are defined as being those procedures that do not require
technical knowledge of exciter circuits or their operation to complete.
2.2.1 Acceptance of Shipment
Inspect all shipments for transit damage prior to acceptance.
2.2.2 Unpacking/Preparation for Installation
Adhere to any warnings or instructions posted on the shipping container. Packing lists
provide detailed listings of shipment contents. Test results shipped with the exciter may be
required in later steps. Remove the VSHD exciter from the shipping container and prepare
for installation as follows:
Remove all plastic cap-plugs from BNC connectors on the rear of the exciter.
Verify that your associated VS transmitter has been physically modified to operate in
conjunction with the VSHD exciter.
•If you received the VSHD exciter together with the associated VS transmitter, no
verification is required. All physical modifications were performed at the factory.
•If you received the VSHD exciter for a pre-existing VS transmitter, perform the
instructions in the appropriate Nautel Information Sheet [IS11004 (for VS1), IS11005
(for VS2.5) or FM11005 (for VS300)] before proceeding. If you are unsure of this
requirement, contact Nautel.

Page 2-2 VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual
Issue 2.0 Section 2 Installation
2.2.3 Mounting in Equipment Rack
When mounting the equipment in a standard 19” equipment rack, provide adequate support
at the bottom of the VSHD exciter. The VSHD exciter cannot support itself through front
panel mounting only. New rail mounting hardware is provided. Airflow and cooling must also
be considered. For ease of interconnection with the associated VS transmitter
(interconnecting cables are provided by Nautel and are fixed length), mount the VSHD
directly above or below the VS transmitter.
The following instructions detail how to mount the VSHD in a cabinet. Use the parts provided
in the Packing Supplies (see Table 2-1) to install the VSHD exciter.
Table 2-1: Packing Supplies, VSHD Exciter – Nautel Part # 211-8981-01
ITEM #
LETTER
QTY
NAUTEL PART #
DESCRIPTION
2
-
1
211-3005
Ancillary Kit, VSHD
3
-
1
211-8982-01
Installation Kit, VSHD
4
E
2
211-8042-01
Slide Bracket 1
5
C
2
211-8044-01
Slide Bracket 2
6
A & B
1
HAS79
Slide Pair, Telescopic
7
D
2
211-8044-02
Slide Bracket 3
Tools Required:
# 1 and # 2 Philips head screwdrivers
7 mm nut driver (suitable for M4 hardware)
2.2.3.1 Parts Required
The following parts are required for the installation, see Figure 2-1 (included with the VSHD
exciter). Parts are separately bagged and identified with their Nautel Part # (e.g., HB14).
Cross-reference the Nautel Part # with the letter shown in Figure 2-1. These letters are used
to identify the hardware in the following illustrations. Locate and set aside all parts before
beginning. Additional parts included with your VSHD exciter are not utilized.

VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual Page 2-3
Section 2 Installation Issue 2.0
Figure 2-1: Parts required for Installation

Page 2-4 VSHD Exciter Technical Instruction Manual
Issue 2.0 Section 2 Installation
2.2.3.2 Rack Slider Assembly
Assemble the Rack Slider as follows:
•Separate the slider assembly parts ‘A’ and “B” by pressing the quick release button
and pulling apart. See Figure 2-2.
Figure 2-2: Slider Assembly Release
•Assemble parts ‘C’, ‘D’ and ‘E’, of the rack mount assembly. Tighten hardware
connecting parts ‘D’ and ‘E’. Leave the hardware connecting parts ‘C’ and ‘D’ finger
tight to allow for rack depth adjustment. When the rack depth is known, tighten the
hardware and repeat for the opposite side. See Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3: Rack Slider Assembly
•Attach part ‘A’ of the rack slider to rack mount assembly parts ‘C’, ‘D’ and ‘E’. Repeat
for the opposite side and tighten all hardware. See Figure 2-4.