Novatel DL-4 User manual

OM-20000063 Rev 3
DL-4
USER MANUAL

2 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Proprietary Notice
DL-4 User Manual
Publication Number: OM-20000063
Revision Level: 3
Revision Date: 2003/04/01
Proprietary Notice
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment
on the part of NovAtel Inc. The software described in this document is furnished under a licence
agreement or non-disclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with
the terms of the agreement. It is against the law to copy the software on any medium except as
specifically allowed in the license or non-disclosure agreement.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without the express written
permission of a duly authorized representative of NovAtel Inc.
The information contained within this manual is believed to be true and correct at the time of
publication.
NovAtel®, GPSolution®, RT-20® and RT-2® are registered trademarks of NovAtel Inc.
PAC™ is a trademark of NovAtel Inc.
All other brand names are trademarks of their respective holders.
© Copyright 2001, 2002, 2003 Novatel Inc. All rights reserved.
Unpublished rights reserved under International copyright laws.
Printed in Canada on recycled paper. Recyclable.

DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 3
Table of Contents
Proprietary Notice 2
Customer Service 11
Notices 12
Foreword 14
Congratulations!...........................................................................................................14
Scope...........................................................................................................................14
Prerequisites................................................................................................................14
1 Introduction 15
1.1 Models and Features..............................................................................................16
1.2 Operating Modes ....................................................................................................17
1.3 Accessories and Options ........................................................................................18
2 Typical Setup 19
2.1 Set Up DL-4 at the Office........................................................................................19
2.2 Set Up DL-4 as a Rover..........................................................................................22
3 DL-4 Setup Considerations 24
3.1 Choose the Right Antenna......................................................................................24
3.2 Connect Cables ......................................................................................................24
3.2.1 I/O Port..........................................................................................................25
3.2.2 Serial Ports & Cables ....................................................................................25
3.2.3 Peripheral Power Supply Via the AUX Port...................................................26
3.2.4 RF Port & Cables...........................................................................................26
3.2.5 Power Port and Cable ...................................................................................27
3.3 Using the Removable Compact Flash Memory Card..............................................28
3.4 Front End-Cap Functionality...................................................................................30
3.5 Sleep, Power Down and the Power Button.............................................................30
4 Using DL-4 32
4.1 System Behavior.....................................................................................................32
4.1.1 Self-Test........................................................................................................32
4.1.2 Default Schedule and Group Configuration...................................................32
4.1.3 Automatic Logging Upon Power Up ..............................................................32
4.1.4 Site Records in Scheduled Logging Operations............................................32
4.1.5 Monitoring Your System................................................................................32
4.2 Communications with the DL-4...............................................................................33
4.3 Data Logging...........................................................................................................34
4.3.1 Schedule Logging Operation.........................................................................35
4.3.2 File Naming Conventions ..............................................................................35
4.3.3 Data Storage Requirements..........................................................................36
4.3.4 Errors.............................................................................................................38
5 LCD Menus 39
5.1 Contrast ..................................................................................................................41
5.2 Menu Access ..........................................................................................................41

4 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Contents
5.2.1 Normal Display...............................................................................................41
5.2.2 Scroll Display.................................................................................................41
5.2.3 Scroll Pause Display......................................................................................42
5.2.4 Edit Digit Display............................................................................................42
5.2.5 Edit Group Display.........................................................................................43
5.3 Menus......................................................................................................................44
5.3.1 Status.............................................................................................................44
5.3.2 View GPS Data..............................................................................................46
5.3.3 Configure Base ..............................................................................................49
5.3.4 Config Logging...............................................................................................50
5.3.5 Config Sites....................................................................................................51
5.3.6 Configure Ports..............................................................................................52
5.3.7 Commands.....................................................................................................53
5.3.8 File Operations...............................................................................................55
6 Software Programs 57
6.1 DL-4 Firmware Upgrades & Updates ......................................................................57
6.1.1 Updating/Upgrading DL-4 Firmware..............................................................57
6.2 Using the HyperTerminal.........................................................................................62
7 DL4Tool 66
7.1 Basic Operations.....................................................................................................66
7.1.1 Starting DL4Tool............................................................................................66
7.1.2 Exiting DL4Tool..............................................................................................67
7.2 Receiver Operations................................................................................................67
7.2.1 Receiver Groups............................................................................................67
7.2.2 Schedule Editor..............................................................................................76
7.3 DL4Tool Receiver Communications........................................................................81
7.3.1 Communication Parameters ..........................................................................81
7.3.2 Upload Schedule or Group from the PC to the Receiver...............................81
7.3.3 Download File from the Receiver to the PC...................................................83
8 DL-4 Commands 85
8.1 Syntax Conventions ................................................................................................89
8.2 AUDIO.....................................................................................................................90
8.3 AUXBUF..................................................................................................................92
8.4 AUXCOM.................................................................................................................93
8.5 AUXMARK...............................................................................................................95
8.6 AUXSTART .............................................................................................................96
8.7 AUXSTOP ...............................................................................................................97
8.8 AUXTIME ................................................................................................................98
8.9 BATTERY................................................................................................................99
8.10 CURRENTFILE ...................................................................................................101
8.11 CURRENTGROUP..............................................................................................102
8.12 DEL .....................................................................................................................103
8.13 DISK....................................................................................................................104
8.14 FRESET ..............................................................................................................105
8.15 GROUP ...............................................................................................................105
8.15.1 Factory-Reset DEFAULT Group................................................................106

Contents
DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 5
8.16 GROUPANTHEIGHT..........................................................................................107
8.16.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................107
8.17 GROUPANTSN...................................................................................................108
8.17.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................108
8.18 GROUPANTTYPE..............................................................................................109
8.18.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................109
8.19 GROUPDGPSTXID ............................................................................................110
8.19.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................110
8.20 GROUPECUTOFF..............................................................................................111
8.20.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................111
8.21 GROUPFIXPOS..................................................................................................112
8.21.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................112
8.22 GROUPINTERFACEMODE................................................................................113
8.22.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................113
8.23 GROUPLOG.......................................................................................................114
8.23.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................115
8.24 GROUPMODE....................................................................................................116
8.24.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................116
8.25 GROUPPOSAVE................................................................................................117
8.25.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................117
8.26 GROUPSATLIMIT...............................................................................................118
8.26.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................118
8.27 GROUPSITENAME ............................................................................................119
8.27.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................119
8.28 GROUPSITENUMBER .......................................................................................120
8.28.1 Groupuse Translation................................................................................120
8.29 GROUPUSE .......................................................................................................121
8.30 LOGFILE.............................................................................................................123
8.31 METHUMID.........................................................................................................125
8.32 METPRESS........................................................................................................126
8.33 METTEMP ..........................................................................................................127
8.34 PROJECT...........................................................................................................128
8.35 RENAME.............................................................................................................129
8.36 RESET................................................................................................................129
8.37 SATLIMIT............................................................................................................129
8.38 SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................131
8.39 SCHEDULEADD.................................................................................................134
8.40 SCHEDULEDEL .................................................................................................135
8.41 SITE....................................................................................................................136
8.42 SITEUPDATENUMBER......................................................................................138
8.43 SITEUPDATENAME...........................................................................................139
8.44 SITEUPDATEANTHEIGHT.................................................................................140
8.45 SITEUPDATEANTTYPE.....................................................................................141
8.46 SITEUPDATEATTRIBUTE .................................................................................142
8.47 SLEEP ................................................................................................................143
8.48 SLEEPMASK......................................................................................................144
8.49 SOFTPOWER.....................................................................................................146
8.50 VOUT..................................................................................................................146

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Contents
8.51 WRITE.................................................................................................................148
8.52 WRITEFILE .........................................................................................................149
8.53 WRITEFILEHEX..................................................................................................150
8.54 WRITEHEX .........................................................................................................151
9 DL-4 Logs 152
9.1 PDC Files ..............................................................................................................154
9.2 AUDIODEF Audible Annunciator Settings..........................................................155
9.3 AUXDEF Auxiliary Communication Channel Configuration................................156
9.4 BATSTATUS Power Source Status....................................................................157
9.5 COMCONFIG COM Port Configuration................................................................158
9.6 CURRENTSET “CurrentX” Command Configuration..........................................160
9.7 DIRENT PC Card File List ..................................................................................161
9.8 FILECHANNEL Log File Channel Configuration.................................................162
9.9 FILEDUMP File Dump ........................................................................................163
9.10 FILEHDR Logfile Header..................................................................................164
9.11 GROUPDEF Log Group Configuration.............................................................166
9.12 HWLEVELS Hardware Levels ..........................................................................169
9.13 METDEF Meteorological Parameters...............................................................170
9.14 PROJECTDEF Project Definition......................................................................170
9.15 RXSTATUS DL-4 Status...................................................................................171
9.16 RXSTATUSEVENT DL-4 Status Event Notification..........................................173
9.17 SCHDEF Schedule Table Entry........................................................................173
9.18 SITEDEF Site Configuration.............................................................................174
9.19 SLEEPMODE Sleep Configuration...................................................................175
9.20 VERSION HW & SW Versions and Serial Numbers.........................................176
9.21 WRITE User-Generated Information.................................................................176
9.22 WRITEHEX User-Generated Information.........................................................176
A Technical Specifications 177
B Replacement Parts 184

DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 7
Tables
1 DL-4 Controller Models.................................................................................................... 16
2 GPS Positioning Modes of Operation.............................................................................. 16
3 Allowable Antenna Types................................................................................................ 24
4 Power Modes................................................................................................................... 31
5 Auto-Generated File Name Convention .......................................................................... 36
6 Storage Requirements per Data Record ......................................................................... 36
7 Memory Consumption - Typical Case for RTK Survey (2 Second Rate)......................... 37
8 Memory Consumption - Typical Case for Static Survey (15 Second Rate)..................... 38
9 Operation Indicator Display............................................................................................. 40
10 Serial Port Interface Modes............................................................................................. 53
11 Log Intervals.................................................................................................................... 70
12 Auto-Generated File Name Conventions......................................................................... 80
13 Weekday Abbreviations................................................................................................... 80
14 DL-4 Commands in Alphabetical Order........................................................................... 85
15 DL-4 Commands in Order of their Message IDs ............................................................. 87
16 Audio Event..................................................................................................................... 90
17 Audible Annunciator Volume Levels................................................................................ 91
18 Audible Annunciator Events ............................................................................................ 91
19 AUDIO Default Configuration .......................................................................................... 92
20 AUXBUF Default Configuration....................................................................................... 92
21 Parity ............................................................................................................................... 94
22 Handshake ...................................................................................................................... 94
23 AUXCOM Default Configuration...................................................................................... 94
24 AUXMARK Default Configuration.................................................................................... 95
25 AUXSTART Default Configuration................................................................................... 96
26 AUXSTOP Default Configuration..................................................................................... 97
27 AUXTIME Default Configuration...................................................................................... 98
28 Action Versus Power Source Selection......................................................................... 100
29 Power Source Action..................................................................................................... 100
30 Power Source Mode...................................................................................................... 100
31 BATTERY Default Configuration ................................................................................... 101
32 Dump Mode................................................................................................................... 102
33 CURRENTFILE Default Configuration........................................................................... 102
34 CURRENTGROUP Default Configuration..................................................................... 102
35 Delete Target.................................................................................................................103
36 Disk Operation............................................................................................................... 104
37 Action............................................................................................................................. 106
38 GROUP Default Configuration....................................................................................... 106
39 GROUPANTHEIGHT Default Configuration.................................................................. 107
40 GROUPANTSN Default Configuration .......................................................................... 108
41 GROUPANTTYPE Default Configuration...................................................................... 109
42 GROUPDGPSTXID Default Configuration .................................................................... 110
43 Parameter Update......................................................................................................... 111
44 GROUPECUTOFF Default Configuration...................................................................... 111

8 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Contents
45 GROUPFIXPOS Default Configuration..........................................................................112
46 GROUPINTERFACEMODE Default Configuration........................................................114
47 GROUPLOG Default Configuration ...............................................................................115
48 Group Mode...................................................................................................................116
49 GROUPMODE Default Configuration ............................................................................116
50 GROUPSAVE Default Configuration .............................................................................118
51 GROUPSATLIMIT Default Configuration.......................................................................118
52 GROUPSITENAME Default Configuration.....................................................................119
53 GROUPSITENUMBER Default Configuration................................................................120
54 Group Action..................................................................................................................122
55 Log File Action ...............................................................................................................124
56 LOGFILE Default Configuration.....................................................................................124
57 METHUMID Default Configuration.................................................................................125
58 METPRESS Default Configuration ................................................................................126
59 METTEMP Default Configuration...................................................................................127
60 Project Action.................................................................................................................128
61 PROJECT Default Configuration ...................................................................................128
62 File Port Channel ...........................................................................................................130
63 SATLIMIT Default Configuration....................................................................................130
64 Schedule Mode..............................................................................................................133
65 SCHEDULE Default Configuration.................................................................................133
66 Site Mode.......................................................................................................................137
67 SITE Default Configuration ............................................................................................137
68 SITEUPDATENUMBER Default Configuration..............................................................138
69 SITEUPDATENAME Default Configuration ...................................................................139
70 SITEUPDATEANTHEIGHT Default Configuration.........................................................140
71 SITEUPDATEANTTYPE Default Configuration.............................................................141
72 SITEUPDATEATTRIBUTE Default Configuration..........................................................142
73 Subsystem .....................................................................................................................143
74 Sleep Action...................................................................................................................144
75 SLEEP Default Configuration.........................................................................................144
76 Subsystem Sleep Mask .................................................................................................144
77 Activity Sources .............................................................................................................145
78 SLEEPMASK Default Configuration ..............................................................................145
79 Softpower.......................................................................................................................146
80 Peripheral Power ...........................................................................................................147
81 On/Off ............................................................................................................................147
82 VOUT Default Configuration ..........................................................................................147
83 DL-4 Logs in Alphabetical Order....................................................................................152
84 DL-4 Logs in Order of their Message IDs ......................................................................153
85 PDC Log Header............................................................................................................154
86 Peripheral Power Status ................................................................................................157
87 Serial Port Identifiers......................................................................................................159
88 Parity..............................................................................................................................159
89 Handshaking..................................................................................................................159
90 Serial Port Interface Modes ...........................................................................................160
91 File Status......................................................................................................................165
92 DGPS Type....................................................................................................................168

Contents
DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 9
93 Group Status ................................................................................................................. 168
94 Meteorological Log Status............................................................................................. 170
95 Auxiliary 2 Status Word................................................................................................. 171
96 Auxiliary 3 Status Word................................................................................................. 172
97 Site Status..................................................................................................................... 174
98 Activity Source Status.................................................................................................... 175
99 Component Type........................................................................................................... 176
100 DL-4 Serial Port Pin-Out Descriptions .......................................................................... 179
101 DL-4 I/O Port Pin-Out Descriptions ............................................................................... 179
102 Power Cable - Pin Configuration ................................................................................... 180

10 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Figures
1 DL-4 Receiver ..................................................................................................................15
2 Typical DL-4 Setup - Office .............................................................................................19
3 Typical DL-4 Setup - Field ...............................................................................................22
4 Close-up of Ports on Back End-Cap ................................................................................24
5 Opening the Compact Flash Card Door ..........................................................................29
6 DL-4 Front End-Cap .......................................................................................................30
7 LCD Areas .......................................................................................................................39
8 LCD Loading Screen .......................................................................................................41
9 Normal Mode ...................................................................................................................41
10 Scroll Mode ......................................................................................................................42
11 Scroll Pause Mode ..........................................................................................................42
12 Edit Digit Mode ................................................................................................................42
13 Edit Group Mode .............................................................................................................43
14 STATUS Menus ...............................................................................................................44
15 GPS Data Menus .............................................................................................................47
16 Configure Base Menus ....................................................................................................49
17 Config Logging Menus .....................................................................................................50
18 Site Menus .......................................................................................................................51
19 Configure Ports Menus ....................................................................................................52
20 Commands Menus ..........................................................................................................54
21 File Operations Menus ....................................................................................................56
22 DL4Tool Main Window ....................................................................................................66
23 Group Editor Dialog .........................................................................................................68
24 Add Log ...........................................................................................................................69
25 Edit Log ...........................................................................................................................70
26 Position Tab .....................................................................................................................73
27 Site Tab ...........................................................................................................................73
28 Interface Tab ...................................................................................................................75
29 Schedule Editor ...............................................................................................................76
30 Schedule Entry ................................................................................................................77
31 Conflict Example ..............................................................................................................79
32 COM Parameters .............................................................................................................81
33 Upload Dialog Before (left) and After (right) ....................................................................82
34 Download Dialog .............................................................................................................83
35 DL-4 Group Scheduler Behavior ...................................................................................132
36 Power Cable - Illustration ..............................................................................................180
37 DL-4 Y-Type Null Modem Cable ....................................................................................181
38 DL-4 Straight Serial Cable .............................................................................................182
39 DL-4 I/O Strobe Port Cable ...........................................................................................183

DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 11
Customer Service
Customer Service
OEM4 FIRMWARE UPDATES AND UPGRADES
Firmware updates are firmware revisions to an existing model, which improves basic functionality of
the GPS receiver. During the one-year warranty coverage following initial purchase, firmware updates
are supplied free of charge. After the warranty has expired, firmware updates and updated manuals
may be subject to a nominal charge.
Firmware upgrades are firmware releases, which increase basic functionality of the receiver from one
model to a higher level model type. When available, upgrades may be purchased at a price, which is
the difference between the two model types on the current NovAtel GPS Price List plus a nominal
service charge.
WINLOAD
Please see Chapter 6, Software Programs on Page 57 for instructions on how to use the WinLoad
program to upgrade/update your PDC, PIC or OEM4 card.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Firmware updates and upgrades are accomplished through NovAtel authorized dealers.
Contact your local NovAtel dealer first for more information. To locate a dealer in your area or if the
problem is not resolved, contact NovAtel Inc. directly using one of the following methods:
Call the NovAtel GPS Hotline at 1-800-NOVATEL (U.S. & Canada), or 403-295-4900 (international)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.novatel.com
Write: NovAtel Inc., Customer Service Dept., 1120 - 68 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB., Canada, T2E 8S5
Before contacting NovAtel Customer Service regarding software concerns, please do the
following:
1. Issue a FRESET command
2. Log the following data to a file on your PC for 30 minutes
RXSTATUSB once
RAWEPHEMB onchanged
RANGEB ontime 1
BESTPOSB ontime 20
RXCONFIGA once
VERSIONB once
3. Send the file containing the logs to NovAtel Customer Service, using either the NovAtel ftp
site at ftp://ftp.novatel.ca/incoming or the [e-mail] e-mail address.

12 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Notices
NoticesPlease refer to Volume 1 of the OEM4 Family Users’ Guide for software license and warranty
information.
The following notices apply to DL-4.
FCC NOTICE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the radiated and conducted emission limits
for a Class B digital device, for both CISPR 22 and Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
• Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help
IMPORTANT: In order to maintain compliance with the limits of a Class B digital device, it is
required to use properly shielded interface cables (such as Belden #9539 or
equivalent) when using the serial data ports, and double-shielded cables (such as
Belden #9945 or equivalent) when using the I/O strobe port.
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by NovAtel
Inc. could result in violation of Part 15 of the FCC rules.
CE NOTICE
The enclosures carry the CE mark.
WARNING: This is a Class B product. In a domestic environment this product may causeradio
interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

Notice
DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 13
EMC
Common Regulatory Testing
• EN55022: Radiated and Conducted Emissions
• CISPR 11/22 Class B
• EN 50081-1 Generic Emissions Class B
• EN 50082-1 Generic Immunity Class B
• EN 61000-4-2 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity
• EN 61000-4-3 Radiated RF EM Field Immunity Test
• EN 61000-4-4 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Test
• EN 61000-4-6 Conducted Immunity
• EN 61000-4-8 Magnetic Field Immunity
• EN 61000-4-11 Voltage Dips and Interruptions
Compact Flash Memory Card Compatability
The DL-4 has been tested with SanDisk 4, 5, 20, 40, and 85 MB (binary-type) cards, and that while
the receiver should work with Compact Flash Memory Cards from any manufacturer, minor variations
between manufacturers’ products may prevent a specific card from working properly. However, the
card is working if it formats correctly, and is recognized correctly, when removed and reinserted.
Please report any problems with Compact Flash Memory Cards to the NovAtel Customer Service
Department. See Page 11 for contact information.
CAUTION!
1. This device incorporates circuitry to absorb most static discharges. However, severe static shock
may cause inaccurate operation of the unit. Use anti-static precautions where possible.
2. This device is a precision instrument. Although it is designed for rugged operating conditions, it
performs best when handled with care.
3. When the access door for the Compact Flash Memory Card mass storage card (Compact Flash
Card) is screwed closed, the enclosure is sealed to provide protection against adverse
environmental conditions. To minimize the possibility of damage, always keep this access door
closed except when exchanging Compact Flash Cards. Any attempt to remove this access door or
the end-caps impairs the water-resistant qualities of the enclosure, and voids the warranty.
4. Before ejecting the Compact Flash Card, it is advisable to stop all logging to the flash card.
5. When a power interruption occurs during a data-logging session, allow for your data to be possibly
reduced by several seconds up to a maximum of five minutes. When possible, error messages are
generated to identify problems as they arise. See also the RXSTATUS log on Page 171.
6. The DL-4 can accept an input supply voltage in the range +7 to +18 V DC. This may not be the
same range as other NovAtel products with which you are familiar. By default, operating the DL-4
below 6.5 V DC causes the unit to suspend operation. An input voltage above +18 V DC may
physically damage the unit. The lower cutoff voltage can be adjusted using the BATTERY
command on Page 99. A 12 V battery should not be allowed to discharge below 10.5 V.
7. Drawing more than the specified maximum current (1 amp) from COM2 will cause an internal fuse
to interrupt the current. Restoring normal operation will require returning the unit to NovAtel.

14 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Foreword
Foreword
Congratulations!
Congratulations on your purchase of the DL-4, a GPS receiver with exceptional flexibility.
NovAtel is an industry leader in state-of-the-art GPS receiver design. We believe that our DL-4 will
meet your high expectations, and are working hard to ensure that future products and enhancements
will maintain that level of satisfaction.
This is your primary hardware and software reference.
Scope
This manual contains sufficient information on the installation and operation of the DL-4 and its
software to allow you to effectively integrate and fully operate it. It is beyond the scope of this manual
to provide details on service or repair. Contact your local NovAtel dealer for any customer-service
related inquiries, see Customer Service on Page 11.
After the addition of accessories, an antenna and a power supply, the DL-4 will be ready to go.
The DL-4 incorporates an LCD display on its front panel and this manual will take you through its
menus and features, see LCD Menus on Page 39. An LCD Menus Quick Look weatherproof guide is
also provided to help you find the LCD windows you need in a hurry, using the navigation buttons on
the DL-4.
The OEM4 in the DL-4 utilizes a comprehensive user-interface command structure, which requires
communications through its communications (COM) ports. This manual also describes the DL-4-
specific commands and logs, see DL-4 Commands starting on Page 85 and DL-4 Logs starting on
Page 152. Other supplementary manuals are included to aid you in using the other commands and
logs available in the OEM4 family of receivers. It is recommended that these documents be kept
together for easy reference.
DL4Tool, GPSolution, DL4Tool and Convert are also described, see Software Programs on Page 57
and DL4Tool starting on Page 66. These programs provide graphical user interfaces to the DL-4 for
logging, scheduling, planning, transferring data files from the Compact Flash Card to the PC,
upgrading, and converting data types.
Prerequisites
The installation chapters of this document provide information concerning the installation
requirements and considerations for DL-4. To run the PC software supplied, your personal computer
must meet or exceed this minimum configuration:
Windows compatible mouse or pointing device 16 Mb RAM memory
Pentium Microprocessor recommended VGA Display
Hard disk with 64 Mb free; extra space is required for data storage Microsoft Windows user interface
Although previous experience with Windows is not necessary to use the DL4Tool, familiarity with
certain actions that are customary in Windows will assist in the usage of the program. This manual has
been written with the expectation that you already have a basic familiarity with windows.

DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 15
Chapter 1 Introduction
The DL-4 is a high performance, high accuracy, GPS receiver with fast data update rates and
integrated memory (Compact Flash Card) for data logging. The DL-4’s front panel also features a
liquid crystal display (LCD) panel and keypad for on the fly observations.
Depending on which model you purchase, the DL-4 is capable of receiving and tracking the L1 C/A
code, L1 and L2 carrier phase and L2 P-Code (or encrypted Y-Code) of up to 12 satellites. Patented
Pulsed Aperture Correlator (PAC) technology combined with a powerful microprocessor make
possible multipath-resistant processing and excellent acquisition and re-acquisition times.
Once you connect the DL-4 to an antenna and power supply, it begins operating as a fully functional
GPS system (see Chapter 2, Typical Setup on Page 19 and Chapter 3, DL-4 Setup Considerations on
Page 24, for more information on this topic). Figure 1 shows the DL-4 without an antenna or
connecting cables.
Figure 1: DL-4 Receiver

16 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Models and Features
The DL-4 is available in several different firmware models whose configurations may include other
additional features. Some possible configurations can be seen in Table 1.
Table 1: DL-4 Controller Models
aAlso available with the SBAS option. Refer also to the
SBAS Overview appendix in Volume 1 of the OEM4 Family
Users’ Guide.
Table 2 lists the above models, each capable of multiple positioning modes of operation:
Table 2: GPS Positioning Modes of Operation
Model Name Firmware Feature
DL-4-L1 aL1-only
DL-4-L1L2 aL1/L2
DL-4-RT20 L1 plus RT-20
DL-4-RT2 L1/L2 plus RT-2
Modes of Operation aDL-4 Model
L1 RT20 L2 RT2
Single point 9999
Pseudorange differential corrections 9999
RT20 pseudorange and carrier-phase double differencing 8989
RT2 pseudorange and carrier-phase double differencing: 8889
Post-processed RTK-type accuracy 9999
a. For a discussion on GPS positioning, please refer to Volume 1 of the OEM4 Family Users’ Guide.

Introduction Chapter 1
DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 17
Each model has the following standard features:
• Rugged shock, water, and dust-resistant enclosure
• NovAtel's advanced OEM4 L1/L2 GPS technology
• Capability to log data to a removable Compact Flash Card (mass storage card).
• Capability to perform data collection
• LCD panel and keypad for on the fly data information
• Two bi-directional COM ports which support data transfer rates of up to 115,200 bit/second
• Field-upgradeable firmware (program software).What makes one model different from another is
software, not hardware. This unique feature means that the firmware can be updated anytime,
anywhere, without any mechanical procedures whatsoever. For example, a model with L1/L2-
only capabilities can be upgraded to a model with L1/L2 RT-2 in only a few minutes in your
office (instead of the days or weeks that would be required if the receiver had to be sent to a
service depot). All that is required to unlock the additional features is a special authorization
code. Please see Chapter 6, Software Programs on Page 57 for details on the WinLoad utility
used for updates and upgrades.
1.2 OPERATING MODES
Whenever the DL-4 is connected to a power source (regardless of whether the DL-4 is turned “on” or
“off”), it detects whether there is a host computer connected to one of its serial ports. For example,
this host computer could be a PC running NovAtel DL4Tool, or a data logger running suitable
software. If a host computer is found, the DL-4 enters Manual mode and waits for a command;
otherwise, the DL-4 enters Automatic mode and operates according to stored commands.
•Manual Operation: Among other things, a host computer can transmit scheduling and logging
parameters, receive collected data, and turn the DL-4 on or off. In this mode, the DL-4 does not
need to be tracking satellites, or even have an antenna connected to it.
•Automatic Operation: Once the DL-4 receives configuration commands from a host computer, it
operates according to these parameters. Up to a week’s worth of data collection can be configured
in advance.

18 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.3 ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS
The DL-4 can be used with the following accessories:
•NovAtelDL4Tool and GPSolution 4 – a suite of programs that allows you to plan your data
collection trip, configure your DL-4 and archive your information sets
• Compact Flash Card for data storage
• Optional NovAtel GPSAntenna Model 601 – single frequency, active antenna designed for high-
accuracy applications without the need for a choke ring
• An optional choke ring is available for the 501 antenna (model A031)
• Optional NovAtel GPSAntenna Model 600 - dual frequency, active antennas designed for high-
accuracy applications without the need for a choke ring
• Optional NovAtel Model C006, C016, or C031 coaxial antenna cable in 5 m (16.4’), 15 m (49.2’),
or 30 m (98.4’) lengths
• Power cable (with automotive adapter) to connect the DL-4 to a power source or battery
• User-supplied power source or battery
• Bracket to allow the DL-4 to be mounted to a surface
• Y-type null modem serial cable for compatibility with certain data communications devices
Should you need to order an accessory or a replacement part, NovAtel part numbers are shown in
Appendix B on Page 184. Not all of the above accessories are available from NovAtel.

DL-4 User Manual Rev 3 19
Chapter 2 Typical Setup
Setting up the DL-4 is a straightforward process, whether you are in the field (collecting data) or back
at the office (configuring the DL-4, or transferring collected data to your PC for post-processing).
CAUTION!: See the cautions on Page 13 of the Notices for a list of items you should be aware
of as you set up and use the DL-4.
2.1 Set Up DL-4 at the Office
Figure 2 displays how you might typically set up the DL-4 at the office - for example, to load a
schedule, or to transfer collected data to a PC. In this situation, the PC is connected to the COM1 port,
and energy is supplied by means of a 12 V power supply.
Figure 2: Typical DL-4 Setup - Office
Reference Description Reference Description
1 DL-4 with 5 Connect modem serial cable
Compact Flash Card to PC COM port
2 Powered PC 6 Connect to PWR port
3 Power cable 7 Connect to 12 V power supply
4 Connect Y-type null modem
serial cable to DL-4
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20 DL-4 User Manual Rev 3
Chapter 2 Typical Setup
For office work, a typical configuration would result from the following steps:
1. Place the DL-4 on a desk or other suitable work surface.
2. Connect an RS232 communication terminal (e.g. PC, data logger) to one of the serial ports of
the DL-4. The supplied null-modem cables are intended for RS232 communicationsonly. See
Serial Ports & Cables on Page 25.
3. Connect the output of a power source (e.g. AC/DC converter) to the input power port of the
DL-4. See Serial Ports & Cables on Page 25.
4. Press the power button or, if you are connected to the DL-4 via a terminal, hit the <Enter> key
and wait for an RXSTATUSA log with a BOOTOK message to appear, see Page 171. If you
are you are using the DL4Tool to communicate with the DL-4, this initial communication is
handled by the software.
5. Communicate with the DL-4, transfer data to the PC, see DL4Tool on Page 66, (if you have
inserted a Compact Flash Card containing previously recorded data), or set up a data-
collection schedule.
6. If you are using your DL-4 as a base or rover station to receive and transmit differential
corrections, you will need to provide a data link between the base station and rover station
(two NovAtel GPSCard receivers). Generally a data link capable of data throughput at a rate
of 2400 bits per second or higher is sufficient for the examples shown below. Pre-configure
the DL-4 as a base station as follows:
interfacemode port rx_type tx_type
fix position latitude longitude height
log port message [trigger [period]]
For example:
RTCA interfacemode com2 none rtca
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105
log com2 rtcaobs ontime 2
log com2 rtcaref ontime 10
log com2 rtca1 ontime 10 3
log com2 rtcaephem ontime 10 7
RTCM interfacemode com2 none rtcm
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105
log com2 rtcm3 ontime 10
log com2 rtcm22 ontime 10
log com2 rtcm1819 ontime 2
log com2 rtcm1 ontime 10 5
CMR interfacemode com2 none cmr
fix position 51.11358042 -114.04358013 1059.4105
log com2 cmrobs ontime 2
log com2 cmrref ontime 10
log com2 cmrdesc ontime 10 5