Novatel ProPak6 User manual

ProPak6™
Installation & Operation
User Manual
OM-20000148 Rev 4 September 2015

2 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual
Publication Number: OM-20000148
Revision Level: 4
Revision Date: September 2015
To download the latest firmware and/or software visit: www.novatel.com/support/firmware-downloads
This manual reflects firmware version 6.60 / OEM060600RN000
Warranty
NovAtel®Inc. warrants that its GNSS products are free from defects in materials and workmanship,
subject to the conditions set forth on our web site: www.novatel.com/products/warranty/.
ProPak6 One (1) Year
GPS Antenna Series One (1) Year
Cables and Accessories Ninety (90) Days
Software Warranty One (1) Year
Return Instructions
To return products, refer to the instructions found under the Return Policy Tab on the warranty page:
www.novatel.com/products/warranty/.
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.
The information contained within this manual is believed to be true and correct at the time of publication.
Steadyline, ALIGN, OEM6, NovAtel and SPAN are registered trademarks of NovAtel Inc.
NovAtel Connect, ProPak6 and GLIDE are trademarks of NovAtel Inc.
All other brand names are trademarks of their respective holders.
Manufactured and protected under U.S. patents.
© Copyright 2015 NovAtel Inc. All rights reserved.
Unpublished rights reserved under International copyright laws.
#5,101,416 #6,184,822 B1
#5,390,207 #6,243,409 B1
#5,414,729 #6,445,354 B1
#5,495,499 #6,608,998 B1
#5,736,961 #6,664,923 B1
#5,809,064 #7,738,536

ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 3
Table of Contents
Customer Support 8
Notices 9
1 Introduction 15
1.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 15
1.2 System Components............................................................................................................. 15
1.3 Models and Features ............................................................................................................ 15
1.4 Overview—ProPak6 Hardware ............................................................................................. 16
2 Installation 20
2.1 Additional Equipment Required ............................................................................................ 20
2.2 ProPak6 Hardware................................................................................................................ 21
2.2.1 ProPak6 Cables........................................................................................................... 21
2.2.2 Selecting a GNSS Antenna ......................................................................................... 21
2.2.3 Choosing a Coaxial Cable ........................................................................................... 21
2.3 Communication with the ProPak6 ......................................................................................... 22
2.3.1 Power Supply Requirements ....................................................................................... 22
2.3.2 COM1 and COM2 Peripheral Power ........................................................................... 22
2.4 Standard Configuration Installation....................................................................................... 23
2.5 Dual Antenna Configuration and Installation......................................................................... 25
2.6 Cellular Antenna Installation ................................................................................................. 27
2.6.1 Mounting the GNSS Antenna ...................................................................................... 29
2.7 ProPak6 Alternative Power Source....................................................................................... 29
2.7.1 Battery Backup ............................................................................................................30
2.7.2 Connect the Additional Communication Ports on a ProPak6 ...................................... 31
2.7.3 Connect the CAN Bus ................................................................................................. 32
2.7.4 Mounting the ProPak6 ................................................................................................. 32
2.8 Installing NovAtel Connect PC Utilities ................................................................................. 32
2.9 ProPak6 Security .................................................................................................................. 33
2.9.1 Administration Password ............................................................................................. 33
2.9.2 FTP Server and ICOM Ports ....................................................................................... 33
2.10 Next Steps .......................................................................................................................... 33
3 Operation 34
3.1 Communications with the Receiver....................................................................................... 34
3.1.1 Communicating Using a Remote Terminal.................................................................. 34
3.1.2 Communicating Using a Computer.............................................................................. 34
3.1.3 Status Indicators.......................................................................................................... 34
3.1.4 COM Ports LEDs ......................................................................................................... 35
3.1.5 Bluetooth LED .............................................................................................................36
3.1.6 Wi-Fi LED .................................................................................................................... 36
3.1.7 INS and ALIGN LEDs .................................................................................................. 36
3.1.8 Satellite Tracking and Positioning LEDs...................................................................... 37
3.1.9 Cell Port and LED........................................................................................................ 39
3.1.10 Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port and LEDs ............................................................... 39
3.1.11 Ethernet Port ............................................................................................................. 40
3.1.12 ICOM Ports................................................................................................................ 41
3.1.13 Serial Ports ................................................................................................................ 41
3.1.14 I/O Port ...................................................................................................................... 42
3.1.15 Expansion Port ..........................................................................................................42
3.1.16 Antenna LNA Port...................................................................................................... 43
3.1.17 External Oscillator Port (model dependent)............................................................... 43

4 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Table of Contents
3.2 Getting Started ..................................................................................................................... 43
3.2.1 Applying Power to the Receiver.................................................................................. 43
3.3 Establishing a Receiver COM Connection ........................................................................... 44
3.3.1 Communicating with the Receiver Using NovAtel Connect ........................................ 45
3.4 Transmitting and Receiving Corrections............................................................................... 46
3.4.1 Defining Antenna and Base Antenna.......................................................................... 47
3.4.2 Base Station Configuration ......................................................................................... 47
3.4.3 Rover Station Configuration........................................................................................ 49
3.5 External ALIGN Master or Rover Configuration Only ........................................................... 49
3.5.1 PDP and GLIDE™Configurations ............................................................................... 50
3.6 Steadyline® ........................................................................................................................................................................... 50
3.6.1 Maintain ...................................................................................................................... 51
3.6.2 Transition .................................................................................................................... 51
3.6.3 Prefer Accuracy .......................................................................................................... 52
3.6.4 UAL ............................................................................................................................. 52
3.6.5 Configuration Notes .................................................................................................... 54
3.6.6 Enabling SBAS Positioning......................................................................................... 54
3.6.7 Enabling L-Band ......................................................................................................... 55
3.7 Logging and Retrieving Data Overview ................................................................................ 57
3.7.1 Onboard Data Storage ................................................................................................ 58
3.7.2 Reading Data and Post-Processing............................................................................ 60
3.7.3 Pass-Through Logging................................................................................................ 61
3.8 ProPak6 Web User Interface (UI)......................................................................................... 61
3.8.1 Setup Up Network IP .................................................................................................. 61
3.8.2 Device Menu ...............................................................................................................64
3.8.3 Dashboard .................................................................................................................. 65
3.8.4 Terminal ...................................................................................................................... 70
4 Ethernet Configuration 73
4.1 Required Hardware .............................................................................................................. 73
4.2 Static IP Address Configuration............................................................................................ 73
4.2.1 Static IP Address Configuration—Receiver ................................................................ 74
4.2.2 Static IP Address Configuration—Windows XP with SP3........................................... 75
4.2.3 Static IP Address Configuration—Windows 7............................................................. 75
4.2.4 Confirming Ethernet Setup.......................................................................................... 76
4.3 Dynamic IP Address Configuration....................................................................................... 77
4.4 Base/Rover Configuration through Ethernet Connectivity .................................................... 78
5 Radio Configuration and Activation 81
5.1 Bluetooth®Configuration ...................................................................................................... 81
5.1.1 Enable Bluetooth on the ProPak6 Receiver................................................................ 81
5.2 Wi-Fi Network Configuration.................................................................................................83
5.2.1 Configure Wi-Fi as the Network Default...................................................................... 83
5.2.2 Wi-Fi AP Configuration ............................................................................................... 84
5.2.3 Wi-Fi Client Configuration ........................................................................................... 86
5.2.4 Wi-Fi Scanning............................................................................................................87
5.3 Cellular Activation GSM/GPRS/HSDPA ............................................................................... 89
5.3.1 Configure Cellular as the Network Default .................................................................. 89
5.3.2 Cellular Network Activation and Configuration............................................................ 89
5.3.3 Eject a SIM Card......................................................................................................... 91
5.4 Airplane Mode ...................................................................................................................... 91
6 NTRIP Configuration 92
7 NovAtel Firmware and Software 95
7.1 Firmware Updates and Model Upgrades.............................................................................. 95

Table of Contents
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 5
7.1.1 Firmware Updates ....................................................................................................... 95
7.1.2 Model Upgrades .......................................................................................................... 96
7.2 Authorization Code ............................................................................................................... 96
7.3 Updating or Upgrading Using the WinLoad Utility................................................................. 97
7.3.1 Transferring Firmware Files......................................................................................... 97
7.3.2 Using the WinLoad Utility ............................................................................................ 98
7.4 Updating Using SoftLoad Commands................................................................................... 99
7.4.1 SoftLoad Commands and Logs ................................................................................... 99
7.4.2 Working With S-Records ............................................................................................. 100
7.4.3 Sending Firmware Data............................................................................................... 101
7.4.4 SoftLoad Update Method............................................................................................. 102
7.4.5 Firmware Update Using FTP or USB Mass Storage Device ....................................... 104
7.4.6 SoftLoad Direct Commands and Logs......................................................................... 104
7.4.7 SoftLoad Direct Update Method .................................................................................. 104
7.4.8 SoftLoad Errors ...........................................................................................................105
7.5 Upgrading Using the AUTH Command ................................................................................. 105
7.5.1 Upgrade Procedure ..................................................................................................... 105
8 Built-In Status Tests 106
8.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 106
8.2 Receiver Status Word ........................................................................................................... 106
8.3 Error Strobe Signal ............................................................................................................... 107
8.4 RXSTATUSEVENT Log........................................................................................................ 107
8.5 RXSTATUS Log.................................................................................................................... 107
8.5.1 Overview...................................................................................................................... 107
8.5.2 Error Word ................................................................................................................... 108
8.5.3 Status Code Arrays ..................................................................................................... 108
8.5.4 Receiver Status Code.................................................................................................. 109
8.5.5 Auxiliary Status Codes ................................................................................................ 109
8.5.6 Set and Clear Mask for all Status Code Arrays ........................................................... 109
A Technical Specifications 110
A.1 OEM638 Receiver Card Performance for ProPak6 ............................................................. 110
A.2 ProPak6 Specifications ........................................................................................................ 111
A.3 Dimension Drawings ............................................................................................................ 113
A.4 OEM615 Receiver Card Performance for ProPak6 (model dependent) ........................... 118
A.5 Cables ................................................................................................................................. 119
B Replacement Parts 125
B.1 ProPak6 ............................................................................................................................... 125
B.2 Accessories ......................................................................................................................... 125
B.3 Manufacturer’s Part Number ............................................................................................... 126
C Frequently Asked Questions 127

6 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Figures
1 Primary and Secondary Lightning Protection ...................................................................... 13
2 ProPak6—Back Connectors ............................................................................................... 16
3 ProPak6—Front Communication Ports, Buttons and Connectors ...................................... 17
4 Typical Standard Installation with External Oscillator ......................................................... 23
5 Antenna and External Oscillator Ports ................................................................................ 24
6 Power Port .......................................................................................................................... 24
7 Ethernet, COM or USB Device Ports .................................................................................. 24
8 Expansion and I/O Ports ..................................................................................................... 25
9 Typical Dual Antenna Installation ........................................................................................ 26
10 GNSS Antenna Ports .......................................................................................................... 26
11 Cellular Network Setup .......................................................................................................27
12 Additional COM ports on the ProPak6 ................................................................................ 31
13 CAN Bus ports on the ProPak6 ........................................................................................... 32
14 Power Button ....................................................................................................................... 43
15 Basic Differential Setup ....................................................................................................... 46
16 Positioning Change Without Steadyline .............................................................................. 50
17 Steadyline Maintain ............................................................................................................. 51
18 Steadyline Transition ........................................................................................................... 51
19 Steadyline Prefer Accuracy ................................................................................................. 52
20 Steadyline UAL- Warning Limit Example ............................................................................ 53
21 Steadyline UAL - Out of Bounds Example .......................................................................... 53
22 Product Information (Info) ...................................................................................................63
23 Status Display Top Panel .................................................................................................... 63
24 Cross-Over Ethernet Cable Configuration—ProPak6 ......................................................... 74
25 ProPak6 Ethernet Hardware Setup ..................................................................................... 77
26 Base/Rover Ethernet Setup—ProPak6 ............................................................................... 79
27 Wi-Fi Configuration Overview ............................................................................................. 83
28 SIM Card Installation ........................................................................................................... 90
29 NTRIP System .................................................................................................................... 92
30 WinLoad’s Open Window .................................................................................................... 98
31 Open File in WinLoad .......................................................................................................... 98
32 COM Port Setup .................................................................................................................. 98
33 Searching for Card .............................................................................................................. 99
34 Authorization Code Window ................................................................................................ 99
35 Upgrade Process Complete ................................................................................................ 99
36 Location of Receiver Status Word ....................................................................................... 107
37 Reading the Bits in the Receiver Status Word .................................................................... 107
38 Location of Receiver Error Word ......................................................................................... 108
39 Reading the Bits in the Receiver Error Word ...................................................................... 108
40 ProPak6 Dimensions ...........................................................................................................113
41 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Antenna Keep-out Area and Antenna Location ......................................... 114

ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 7
Tables
1 ProPak6 Model Features...................................................................................................... 15
2 ProPak6 - Back Connector Definitions .................................................................................16
3 ProPak6 - Front Label Definitions.........................................................................................18
4 ProPak6 Cables....................................................................................................................21
5 Enclosure Power Requirements ........................................................................................... 29
6 Fuse/Holder Recommendations ........................................................................................... 30
7 INS LED States ....................................................................................................................36
8 ALN (ALIGN) LED States ..................................................................................................... 37
9 Satellite Tracking LEDs States ............................................................................................. 37
10 Satellite Position LEDs States .............................................................................................. 38
11 CELL LED States .................................................................................................................39
12 Data Communication Port Defaults ......................................................................................41
13 Status Drop Menu Examples................................................................................................64
14 COM1 and COM2 Port Pin-Out Descriptions ....................................................................... 115
15 COM3/IMU Port Pin-Out Description .................................................................................... 115
16 I/O Port Pin-Out Descriptions ............................................................................................... 116
17 Expansion Port Pin-Out Description .....................................................................................116
18 ProPak6 Strobe Electrical Specifications ............................................................................. 117
19 Wiring Table: ........................................................................................................................120
20 I/O Cable Wiring Instructions ................................................................................................122
21 ProPak6 Expansion Cable Pin-Out Descriptions.................................................................. 123
22 P2 Connector Pin-Out Descriptions...................................................................................... 124

8 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Customer Support
NovAtel Knowledge Base
If a technical issue i s encountered, browse the NovAtel Web site: www.novatel.com/support/search. Use
the support pages to search for general information about GNSS and other technologies, information
about NovAtel hardware and software and installation and operation issues.
Before Contacting Customer Support
Before contacting NovAtel Customer Support about a software problem, perform the following steps:
1. Log the following data to a file a computer for 15 minutes:
RXSTATUSB ONCE
RAWEPHEMB ONCHANGED
RANGECMPB ONTIME 1
BESTPOSB ONTIME 1
RXCONFIGA ONCE
VERSIONA ONCE
2. If using one of the ProPak6 network interfaces, also log the following as necessary:
WIFICONFIG ONCE
WIFIAPSTATUS ONCHANGED
WIFICLISTATUS ONCHANGED
BLUETOOTHSTATUS ONCHANGED
CELLULARSTATUS ONCHANGED
LOGFILESTATUS ONCE
3. Send the data file to NovAtel Customer Support, using either the NovAtel FTP site at ftp://
ftp.novatel.ca/ or through the [email protected]om e-mail address.
4. You can also issue a FRESET command to the receiver to clear any unknown settings.
If you are having a hardware problem, send a list of the troubleshooting steps taken and results.
Contact Information
Use one of the following methods to contact NovAtel Customer Support:

The FRESET command will erase all user settings. You should know your configuration and
be able to reconfigure the receiver before you send the FRESET command.
Call the NovAtel Hotline at 1-800-NOVATEL (U.S. & Canada)
or [phone] (international)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.novatel.com
Write: NovAtel Inc.
Customer Support Department
1120 - 68 Avenue NE
Calgary, AB
Canada, T2E 8S5

ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 9
Notices
The following notices apply to the ProPak6 device.
FCC Notices
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The ProPak6 has been tested and found to comply with the radiated and conducted emission limits for a
Class B digital device. The Class B limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation.
The equipment listed 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 by
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
Industry Canada
ProPak6 Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
ProPak6 appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Notice for Unlicensed Intentional Radiators
This device complies with Industry Canada's license-exempt RSS-GEN and RSS-210. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference; and
2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation
of the device.

Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by NovAtel Inc., could
result in violation of FCC, Industry Canada and CE Marking rules and void the user’s
authority to operate this equipment.

To maintain compliance with the limits of a Class B digital device, you must 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.

10 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Notices
Bluetooth®
The ProPak6 contains Bluetooth wireless technology (Bluetooth 2.1 SPP - Serial Port Profile).
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use
of such marks by NovAtel Inc., is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their
respective owners.
Propak6 contains a Bluetooth radio with the following modular approvals:
• FCC ID: TFB-TIWI1-01
• IC: 5969A-TIWI101
Wi-Fi
The ProPak6 contains Wi-Fi wireless technology (802.11b/g/n). See the caution in Cell Port and LED on
page 39 and the Wi-Fi antenna keep-out information in Figure 41, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Antenna Keep-out
Area and Antenna Location on page 114.
Propak6 contains a Wi-Fi radio with the following modular approvals:
• FCC ID: TFB-TIWI1-01
• IC: 5969A-TIWI101
Cellular
Some Propak6 models contain cellular radio technology.
Propak6 contains a cellular radio with the following modular approvals:
• FCC ID: RI7HE910
• IC: 5131A-HE910

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement
The radiated output power of this device is below the FCC radio frequency exposure limits.
Nevertheless, this device should be used in such a manner that the potential for human
contact during normal operation is minimized.
This device has been evaluated for and shown compliant with the FCC RF Exposure limits
under mobile exposure conditions. At least 20cm of separation distance between the
ProPak6 device (and from its cellular antenna) to the user's body must be maintained at all
times.

To comply with FCC and Industry Canada regulations limiting both maximum RF output
power and human exposure to RF radiation, the maximum system gain (antenna gain
minus system loss) must not exceed 1.4 dBi in the U.S. Cellular band and 3.0 dBi in the
PCS band for the GSM/GPRS/HSDPA variant. System loss is the total of external cable and
connector losses and ProPak6 internal losses. For reference and system gain calculation
purposes, the ProPak6 has internal losses of 0.6 dB for the 800 MHz Cellular band and 1.8
dB for the 1900 MHz PCS band.

Notices
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 11
CE Marking
ProPak6 BT/Wi-Fi
Hereby, NovAtel Inc. declares that the ProPak6 BT/Wi-Fi transceiver is in compliance with the essential
requirements (radio performance, electromagnetic compatibility and electrical safety) and other relevant
provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC, EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and the RoHS Recast Directive 2011/65/
EU. Therefore the equipment is labeled with the following CE marking.
The Declaration of Conformity may be obtained from NovAtel Inc., 1120-68th Ave N.E., Calgary, Alberta,
Canada. T2E 8S5.
ProPak6 BT/Wi-Fi/Cellular
Hereby, NovAtel Inc. declares that the ProPak6 BT/Wi-Fi/Cellular transceiver is in compliance with the
essential requirements (radio performance, electromagnetic compatibility and electrical safety) and other
relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC, EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and the RoHS Recast Directive
2011/65/EU. Therefore the equipment is labeled with the following CE marking.
The Declaration of Conformity may be obtained from NovAtel Inc., 1120-68th Ave N.E., Calgary, Alberta,
Canada. T2E 8S5.
Instructions for Safe Operation of Equipment
The ProPak6 is capable of operation at ambient temperatures up to 65°C. In such cases the metallic
surface temperature of the ProPak6 may exceed 70°C. Therefore, under these conditions the equipment
needs to be installed in a RESTRICTED ACCESS LOCATION.
If the ProPak6 is operating in a lower temperature environment where the ambient temperature is less
than 60°C, installation in a RESTRICTED ACCESS LOCATION is not required.
Ethernet Port

The Ethernet ports are safety extra-low voltage (SELV) circuits only and are suitable for
connection within a building only. Do not connect them to telephone-network voltage (TNV)
circuits.

12 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Notices
WEEE Notice
If you purchased your ProPak6 product in Europe, please return it to your dealer or supplier at the end of
its life. The objectives of the European Community's environment policy are, in particular, to preserve,
protect and improve the quality of the environment, protect human health and utilise natural resources
prudently and rationally. Sustainable development advocates the reduction of wasteful consumption of
natural resources and the prevention of pollution. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is a
regulated area. Where the generation of waste cannot be avoided, it should be reused or recovered for
its material or energy. WEEE products may be recognized by their wheeled bin label ( ).1
REACH
NovAtel strives to comply with the EU Directive EC 1907/2006 on chemicals and their safe use as per the
Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical substances (REACH) for its products,
including the ProPak6 product. Since REACH SVHC lists are updated occasionally, please contact
NovAtel Customer Support if you require further information.
Lightning Protection Installation and Grounding Procedures
What is the hazard?
A lightning strike into the ground causes an increase in the earth's potential which results in a high
voltage potential between the center conductor and shield of the coaxial cable. This high voltage
develops because the voltage surge induced onto the center conductor lags in time behind the voltage
surge induced onto the shield.
Hazard Impact
A lightning strike causes the ground potential in the area to rise to dangerous levels resulting in harm to
personnel or destruction of electronic equipment in an unprotected environment. It also conducts a
portion of the strike energy down the inner conductor of the coax cable to the connected equipment.
Actions to Mitigate Lightning Hazards
1. Do not install antennas or antenna coaxial cables outside the building during a lightning storm.
2. It is not possible to avoid over-voltages caused by lightning, but a lightning protection device may be
used to shunt a large portion of the transient energy to the building ground reducing the over-voltage
condition as quickly as possible.
3. Primary lightning protection must be provided by the operator/customer according to local building
codes as part of the extra-building installation.
4. To ensure compliance with clause 7 "Connection to Cable Distribution Systems" of EN 60950-1,
Safety for Information Technology Equipment, a secondary lightning protection device must be used
for in-building equipment installations with external antennas. The following device has been
approved by NovAtel Inc.:
Polyphaser - Surge Arrestor DGXZ+24NFNF-B
1. Please visit the NovAtel Web site at www.novatel.com through Products | WEEE and RoHS for
more information.

Cables may contain DEHP (CAS Number 117-81-7) in concentrations above 0.1% w/w.

Only qualified personnel, electricians as mandated by the governing body in the country of
installation, may install lightning protection devices.

Notices
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 13
If this device is not chosen as the primary lightning protection device, the device chosen must meet
the following requirements:
• UL listed, or equivalent, in country of installation (for example, TUV, VDE and so on) for lightning
surge protection
• The primary device must be capable of limiting an incoming surge of 10 kV
5. The shield of the coaxial cable entering the building should be connected at a grounding plate at the
building's entrance. The lightning protection devices should have their chassis grounded to the same
ground near to the building's entrance.
6. The primary and secondary lightning protections should be as close to the building's entrance as
possible. Where feasible they should be mounted onto the grounding plate itself. See Figure 1,
Primary and Secondary Lightning Protection on page 13.
Figure 1: Primary and Secondary Lightning Protection
Ref # Description
1 Primary lightning protection device
2 Secondary lightning protection device
3 External antenna
4 GNSS Receiver
5 To ground
6 Grounding plate or grounding point at the building’s entrance

Acceptable choices for Earth Grounds, for central buildings, are:
• Grounded interior metal cold water pipe within five feet (1.5 m) of the point where it
enters the building
• Grounded metallic service raceway
• Grounded electrical service equipment enclosure
• Eight-foot grounding rod driven into the ground (only if bonded to the central
building ground by #6, or heavier, bonding wire)

14 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Notices
These installation instructions are the minimum requirements for receiver and antenna installations.
Where applicable, follow the electrical codes for the country of installation. Examples of country codes
include:
• USA National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)
• Canada Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22)
• UK British Standards Institute (BSI 7671)
Manual Scope
This manual contains information about the installation and operation of the ProPak6 system. 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, refer to Customer Support on page 8.
A ProPak6 system requires the addition of accessories, an antenna and a power supply.
ProPak6 output is compatible with post-processing software from NovAtel's Waypoint®Products Group.
Visit our Web site at www.novatel.com for details.
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning observes range measurements from orbiting
GNSS satellites. From these observations, the receiver can compute position and velocity with high
accuracy. NovAtel GNSS positioning systems are highly accurate positioning tools. GNSS positioning
requires line of sight view to at least four satellites simultaneously and differential GNSS positioning can
be accurate to within a few centimeters. For a detailed discussion of GNSS, refer to NovAtel’s book
Introduction to GNSS available from our web site.
Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:

Information that supplements or clarifies text.

A caution that actions, operation or configuration may lead to incorrect or improper use of
the hardware.

A warning that actions, operation or configuration may result in regulatory noncompliance,
safety issues or equipment damage.

15 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Introduction
The ProPak6 is a high performance Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver capable of
receiving and tracking different combinations of GNSS signal and integrated L-Band on 240 channels.
GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS and SBAS support are standard and the ProPak6 adaptability
offers multi-system, frequency and size configurations for any application requirement. ProPak6 models
have a NovAtel OEM638 receiver card; some models also include a NovAtel OEM615 receiver card for
additional functionality. Excellent acquisition and re-acquisition times allow this receiver to operate in
environments where very high dynamics and frequent interruption of signals can be expected. The
ProPak6 options include integrated radio and dual input heading options to provide a tightly integrated
and rugged solution for any application.
1.2 System Components
The ProPak6 system includes the following components:
• OEM638 receiver with built in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB 2.0 and 4 GB of onboard memory
• 12 VDC power adapter (CLA) with slow blow fuse
• Null modem cable
• DB9 male extension cable
• I/O DB9 male interface cable
• Mounting bracket and hardware
Refer to Section 2.2.1, ProPak6 Cables on page 21, Section 2.6.1, Mounting the GNSS Antenna on
page 29 and Appendix A, Technical Specifications on page 110 for details on cables and mounting the
ProPak6.
Refer to Section 2.1, Additional Equipment Required on page 20 for a equipment not included with the
ProPak6.
1.3 Models and Features
The ProPak6 is available in several different firmware models whose configurations may include other
additional features.
Table 1: ProPak6 Model Features
Model Configuration
Firmware Features
External
Oscillator
Dual
Antenna
Cellular/
HSPA
OEM638
Card
OEM615
Card
ProPak6 Dual/Cellular ■■■■
ProPak6 Dual ■■■
PP6 Single/Cellular ■■■
PP6 Single ■■

16 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.4 Overview—ProPak6 Hardware
The ProPak6 has a series of ports on the back of the unit for connecting specific cables. In the front, the
ProPak6 is outfitted with a number of LEDs to indicate receiver status, buttons to initiate functionality and
access to onboard storage (model dependent).
Figure 2: ProPak6—Back Connectors

Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, high speed USB 2.0 and 4 GB onboard memory available
on all models. Refer to Appendix A, Technical Specifications on page 110, Section
NovAtel Part Numbers for model details.
Table 2: ProPak6 - Back Connector Definitions
Connector Type Connector Label Description
GNSS Antenna
External Oscillator
ANT 1
ANT 2
or
ANT1
OSC
GNSS GPS1 and GPS2 antennas (TNC) (model dependent)
or
GNSS GPS1 antenna (TNC) and external oscillator (BNC) (model
dependent)
Refer to Figure 5, Antenna and External Oscillator Ports on
page 24 for details
Power PWR
4-pin LEMO power connector
Refer to Figure 6, Power Port on page 24 for details
Expansion EXP.
9-pin LEMO expansion port for CAN1, CAN2 and an additional USB
host port
Refer to Figure 8, Expansion and I/O Ports on page 25 for details
USB DEVICE
USB Device (Type micro B) connector
Refer to Figure 7, Ethernet, COM or USB Device Ports on page 24
for details
Ethernet
Ethernet RJ45 connector
Refer to Figure 7, Ethernet, COM or USB Device Ports on page 24
for details
I/O
I/O
Event Input/output (DB9 female connector)
I/O port is configurable
Refer to Figure 8, Expansion and I/O Ports on page 25 for details
Serial
Communication Port
COM1
COM2
COM3/IMU
COM1, COM2, COM3/IMU DB9 male communications port
RS-232 and RS-422 selectable via software
Refer to Figure 7, Ethernet, COM or USB Device Ports on page 24
for details
ANT2 indicates Dual Antenna model
OSC indicates External Oscillator model

Introduction Chapter 1
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 17
Figure 3: ProPak6—Front Communication Ports, Buttons and Connectors

Also refer to Appendix A, Technical Specifications on page 110 for connector details.

The Bluetooth/Wi-Fi antennas are located on the front of the ProPak6 (not visible).
Refer to Figure 41, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Antenna Keep-out Area and Antenna Location on
page 114 for exact location and keep-out dimensions for this antenna.
INS ALN
HOST
CELL
INS ALN
HOST
Cellular Model
Non-cellular Model
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
antenna location

18 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Chapter 1 Introduction
Table 3: ProPak6 - Front Label Definitions
Button/Connector/
LED Type Label LED Description
N/A Yes
Power button and status LED
Refer to Section 3.2.1, Applying Power to the Receiver on page 43
for details
N/A Yes
Logging button with user configurable status LED
Refer to Section 3.7, Logging and Retrieving Data Overview on
page 57 for details
Tracking
Yes
Indicates number of satellites being tracked by the corresponding
receiver
User configurable (refer to the LEDCONFIG command in the OEM6
Firmware Reference Manual - OM-20000129)
Refer to Section 3.1.8, Satellite Tracking and Positioning LEDs on
page 37 for details
Position
Yes
Indicates satellite position status for the corresponding receiver
User configurable (refer to the LEDCONFIG command in the OEM6
Firmware Reference Manual - OM-20000129)
Refer to Section 3.1.8, Satellite Tracking and Positioning LEDs on
page 37 for details
INS
ALN Yes
INS status indication (SPAN configuration only)
ALIGN heading status indication (Dual antenna configuration only)
Refer to Section 3.1.7, INS and ALIGN LEDs on page 36 for details
COM 1, 2 and 3 Yes
Transmit/Receive indication (COM 1, 2 and/or 3)
Refer to Section 3.1.13.1, Configure COM 1, 2 and 3 on page 42 and
Section 3.1.4, COM Ports LEDs on page 35 for details
Wi-Fi
Yes Wi-Fi radio status LED
Refer to Section 3.1.6, Wi-Fi LED on page 36 for details
Bluetooth
Yes Bluetooth radio status LED
Refer to Section 3.1.5, Bluetooth LED on page 36 for details
HOST Yes
USB Host (Type A) connector - ProPak6 built in USB host with status
LED
Memory stick port for automatic downloading of logged data (refer to
Section 3.7, Logging and Retrieving Data Overview on page 57) and
updating firmware (refer to Section 7.4, Updating Using SoftLoad
Commands on page 99)
Refer to Section 3.1.10, Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port and LEDs
on page 39 for details
CELLULAR - OPTIONAL (refer to 5.3, Cellular Activation GSM/GPRS/HSDPA on page 89)
CELL Yes
Fully integrated TNC, cellular modem antenna connector (GPRS/
HSPA) and status LED
Refer to Section 3.1.9, Cell Port and LED on page 39 for details
INS ALN

Introduction Chapter 1
ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4 19
Mini-SIM only
(25 mm x 15 mm)
SIM No
Push-push style SIM card holder
Remove SIM card holder cover to insert card; replace cover to avoid
damaging card
Table 3: ProPak6 - Front Label Definitions
Button/Connector/
LED Type Label LED Description
Open Covered

20 ProPak6 Installation and Operation User Manual Rev 4
Chapter 2 Installation
This chapter contains instructions and tips to install the ProPak6 and create a GNSS receiver system.
2.1 Additional Equipment Required
Refer to Chapter 1, Introduction on page 15 for a list of components included with the Propak6. In order
for the receiver to perform optimally, the following additional equipment is required:
• At least one GNSS antenna and antenna cable with a TNC male connector at the receiver end. For
example, a quality, dual-frequency GNSS antenna such as NovAtel’s GPS-702-GG or ANT-A72GA-
TW-N for airborne/high speed applications. See the NovAtel website www.novatel.com/products/
gnss-antennas) for information on a variety of quality antennas available to meet your form factor
and performance needs.
User Supplied Additional Equipment (as required)
• A quality coaxial cable and interconnect adapter cable as necessary (user-supplied)
• A Windows based computer
• A means of communicating between the ProPak6 and computer or other external devices:
• Ethernet cable
• USB micro-B cable
• RS-232 serial cable
• RS-422 serial cable
• A cellular link
• A cell antenna such as PCTEL Inc., MLPV800 (12023303) and magnetic mount such as PCTEL Inc.,
GMHFML195C (12023300)cellular radio antenna cable
•Bluetooth link
•Wi-Finetwork
• Real-time data collection, status monitoring and receiver configuration is possible through the
NovAtel Connect™ PC Utilities software is available from our web site: www.novatel.com/support/
info/documents/809.

Use a serial COM or USB connection to communicate with the receiver first. This
provides the ability to configure the computer and ProPak6 before Wi-Fi, Ethernet,
Bluetooth or cellular are configured and used.

When the ProPak6 is installed in a permanent location, such as in a building, it should
be protected by a lightning protection device according to local building codes. See
Lightning Protection Installation and Grounding Procedures on page 12.