Quasonix QTrack User manual

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Installation and Operation Manual
QTrack™ Antenna System
Quasonix, Inc.
6025 Schumacher Park Dr.
West Chester, OH 45069
17 October 2022
*** Preliminary 0.15 ***
Specifications subject to change without notice.
All Quasonix antenna products are under U.S. Department of Commerce jurisdiction categorized as
5A991; not covered by ITAR.

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Table of Contents
1Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Description ................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Nomenclature .............................................................................................................................. 2
1.2.1 Options and Accessories......................................................................................................... 2
1.2.2 Standard Package Contents ................................................................................................... 3
2Specifications......................................................................................................................................... 4
3Installation Instructions .......................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Mechanical................................................................................................................................... 6
3.1.1 System Configuration .............................................................................................................. 6
3.1.2 2U Rack-Mount Controller....................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Thermal........................................................................................................................................ 7
3.3 Electrical ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3.1 2U Controller Rear Panel Connections ................................................................................... 8
4Operating Instructions............................................................................................................................ 9
4.1 Local Antenna Control Unit (ACU) Operation.............................................................................. 9
4.1.1 Remote ACU Operation .......................................................................................................... 9
4.1.1.1 Remote Access Set Up, LAN.............................................................................................. 9
4.1.1.2 Remote Access Set Up, WAN ............................................................................................ 9
4.2 ACU Main Operations Indicators and Manual Control .............................................................. 10
4.2.1 ACU Menu Bar ...................................................................................................................... 11
4.2.1.1 Logging ............................................................................................................................. 11
4.2.1.2 Status ................................................................................................................................ 12
4.2.1.3 Settings ............................................................................................................................. 13
4.2.1.3.1 This Computer ......................................................................................................... 14
4.2.1.3.2 ACU ......................................................................................................................... 14
4.2.1.3.3 Calibration................................................................................................................14
4.2.1.4 Tools ................................................................................................................................. 14
4.2.1.5 Help................................................................................................................................... 15

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4.2.2 Axis Control ........................................................................................................................... 16
4.2.3 Camera Control ..................................................................................................................... 18
4.3 System Tracking ........................................................................................................................ 18
4.3.1 Basic Tracking ....................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.2 Target Dynamics ...................................................................................................................19
4.3.3 Multipath Clipping Angle (MPC) ............................................................................................ 19
4.3.4 Acquire .................................................................................................................................. 20
4.3.5 Search ................................................................................................................................... 21
4.3.6 Designate Mode ....................................................................................................................21
4.3.6.1 Immediate Designate Mode .............................................................................................. 22
4.3.6.2 Program Designate Mode ................................................................................................. 22
4.3.7 True North Calibration ...........................................................................................................23
4.4 Slaving and Burn File Operation................................................................................................ 24
4.5 Basic GUI Tool Set Functions....................................................................................................24
4.5.1 Logging..................................................................................................................................25
4.5.2 Hand Wheel Test...................................................................................................................26
4.5.3 Joystick Test.......................................................................................................................... 27
5Maintenance Instructions ..................................................................................................................... 28
6Product Warranty .................................................................................................................................29
7Technical Support and RMA Requests................................................................................................ 30
8Appendix A –Transmitter Control........................................................................................................ 31
9Appendix B –Acronym List.................................................................................................................. 33
List of Figures
Figure 1: QTrack™Antenna System Part Number Construction ................................................................. 2
Figure 2: Typical System Configuration, Local Operation ............................................................................ 6
Figure 3: Mechanical Drawing –2U Front View............................................................................................ 7

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Figure 4: Mechanical Drawing –2U Back View ............................................................................................ 7
Figure 5: Mechanical Drawing –2U Top View.............................................................................................. 7
Figure 6: 2U Front Panel............................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 7: 2U Rear Panel ............................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 8: Typical System Configuration, Remote Operation—LAN Access ................................................. 9
Figure 9: Typical System Configuration, Remote Operation—WAN Access.............................................. 10
Figure 10: QTrack ACU Desktop Icon ........................................................................................................ 11
Figure 11: QTrack ACU Graphical User Interface ...................................................................................... 11
Figure 12: Menu Bar, Logging Icon.............................................................................................................12
Figure 13: Menu Bar, Logging Enabled ......................................................................................................12
Figure 14: Menu Bar, Status Icon ...............................................................................................................12
Figure 15: Status Window ........................................................................................................................... 13
Figure 16: Menu Bar, Settings Icon ............................................................................................................ 13
Figure 17: Settings Window ........................................................................................................................ 14
Figure 18: Menu Bar, Tools Icon................................................................................................................. 15
Figure 19: Tools Window ............................................................................................................................ 15
Figure 20: Menu Bar, Help Icon .................................................................................................................. 15
Figure 21: Help Window <TBA> ................................................................................................................. 15
Figure 22: Axis Control Window, Red Servo Button ................................................................................... 16
Figure 23: Axis Control Window, Servo Button Changed to Green ............................................................ 16
Figure 24: Elevation, Tracking Error, Azimuth Windows ............................................................................17
Figure 25: Axis Control Window, Manual Mode Buttons ............................................................................ 17
Figure 26: Camera Control Window............................................................................................................ 18
Figure 27: Track Settings Window .............................................................................................................. 19
Figure 28: AGC Window ............................................................................................................................. 20
Figure 29: Acquire Settings Window ........................................................................................................... 20
Figure 30: Search Settings Window............................................................................................................ 21
Figure 31: Axis Control Window, Designate Button .................................................................................... 22
Figure 32: Axis Control Window..................................................................................................................22
Figure 33: Settings Window ........................................................................................................................23
Figure 34: True North Window .................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 35: Tools Window ............................................................................................................................ 25
Figure 36: Logging Window ........................................................................................................................ 25
Figure 37: Elevation and Azimuth Input Control Windows.......................................................................... 26
Figure 38: Hand Wheel Test Window .........................................................................................................26
Figure 39: Joystick Test Window ................................................................................................................ 27
Figure 40: QTrack ACU Graphical User Interface ...................................................................................... 31

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Figure 41: Tx Control Window ....................................................................................................................31
Figure 42: Transmitter Window, Tx Settings Tab........................................................................................ 32
List of Tables
Table 1: Model Configuration Example......................................................................................................... 2
Table 2: 2U Rear Panel Connectors ............................................................................................................. 8

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1 Introduction
1.1 Description
This document describes the installation and operation of the Quasonix QTrack™Antenna System and is updated to
match RDMS™System Version 19.3. The QTrack™antenna is enhanced by our industry-leading innovations,
including our ultra-fast electronic scanning, enhanced system status graphics, and intuitive user interface. The
standard QTrack Antenna System includes:
Dual Axis Pedestal Assembly
•Dual-axis positioner, slip ring, and two channel rotary joint assembly
SCM Antenna Assembly
•SCM antenna, with LHCP and RHCP outputs capable of operation at any or all of the following bands:
1435.5 MHz to 1534.5 MHz
1750.0 MHz to 1850.0 MHz
2200.5 MHz to 2394.5 MHz
4400.0 MHz to 5150.0 MHz
(Extended operating frequencies available)
•A two-by-two antenna array providing dual axis tracking capability
•An RF assembly integrated behind the antenna array containing:
•Tracking hybrid assemblies
•Band pass filters for each polarization
•Low noise RF preamplifiers for each polarization
Rack Mounted 2U Control Unit
•Ethernet control and status
•HDMI video port for interfacing to HDMI monitor (available accessory bundle)
•Front and rear panel USB ports for connecting keyboard and mouse (available accessory bundle)
System Cable Set (Length to be specified by Customer)
•Two LMR-400 RF cables
•One Control umbilical cable
Note: Cables can be any length between 25 and 250 feet, as defined by the customer.
The QTrack™Antenna System is manufactured by:
Quasonix, Inc.
6025 Schumacher Park Drive
West Chester, OH 45069
CAGE code: 3CJA9

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1.2 Nomenclature
The QTrack™Antenna System is available in a number of variations, depending on the options specified at the time
of order. The features and modes installed in each unit are identified in the model number, as depicted in Figure 1.
Figure 1: QTrack™Antenna System Part Number Construction
For example, model number QSX-QTM-050-CA-TR defines a unit configured as shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Model Configuration Example
Identifiers
Description
QSX
Quasonix product
QT
QTrack Antenna System
M
L and S bands
050
Cable length for control umbilical and RF cables, in feet
(250 ft maximum)
CA
Camera option
TR
Tripod option
Specifications are subject to change. Contact Quasonix for questions regarding your specific system.
1.2.1 Options and Accessories
The available options and accessories include:
CA
Camera
TR
Tripod
TX05
5 Watt Integrated transmitter
TX10
10 Watt Integrated transmitter
XXX X
-
Options, in any order
-XX
CA (Camera)
TR (Tripod)
TX05 (5 Watt Integrated transmitter, call factory)
TX10 (10 Watt integrated transmitter, call factory)
for Control Umbilical
and RF Cables (in feet)
250 ft max
Cable Length
L (1435-1535)
S (2200-2400)
C (4400-5150)
M (L/S)
Q (L/S/C)
Band Code
-XX
-QT
QSX
Quasonix
Product QTrack

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QSX-AC-HWHEELS
Dual USB hand wheels
QSX-AC-KVMKIT
Keyboard, mouse, monitor and monitor rack mounting frame
1.2.2 Standard Package Contents
The contents of the shipment include the following:
•Round antenna
•Dual-Axis positioner
•2U rack mount controller
•(2) 161005-xxx Coaxial cables
•QC-CBL005-XXX QTrack control umbilical cable

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2 Specifications
Antenna Specifications
Operating Frequency
1435.0 - 2500.0 MHz continuous
4400.0 - 5250.0 MHz continuous
Polarization
Simultaneous Right Hand and Left Hand Circular
Axial Ratio
2.0 dB maximum
Antenna Type
Electronic Scanning
Array Size (Diameter)
13.25 inches nominal
Weight
< 15 lbs (7 kg)
Antenna Gain (nominal,
linear polarized receive,
RHCP and LHCP
outputs combined)
1435.0 MHz +7.0 dB
2400.0 MHz +10.0 dB
4400.0 MHz +9.0 dB
5250.0 MHz +9.0 dB
Antenna Beamwidth
(3 dB) (nominal)
40°
Sidelobes (nominal)
10 dBp
Environmental
Temperature
Operating -30°C to +55°C
Storage - 40°C to +71°C
Relative Humidity
Up to 100%, including condensation
(radome protected)
Pedestal Specifications
Type
Elevation/Azimuth
Backlash
< 0.2 degrees
Azimuth Velocity
> 30°/sec
Azimuth Acceleration
> 20°/sec2
Travel Azimuth
Continuous
Pan Axis Speed/Range
0.005° –50°/sec, 360° continuous rotation
Tilt Axis Speed/Range
0.005° –12°/sec at 50 lb-ft, 180° (±90°)
Elevation
-90° to +90° (Software, Electrical, and Mechanical limited provided)
RF Cabling Capability
Two RF channels supporting frequencies through C-band, VSWR 2.0:1
Maximum each RF channel

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Weight
25 lbs nominal
Power Requirements
115 VAC, 60 Hz, 1Ø
Environmental
Operating Temperature
-30°C to +55°C
Storage Temperature
-40 °C to +71°C
Relative Humidity
Up to 100%, including condensation (radome protected)
Rain
Up to 4 inches per hour
Ice
1/2 inch, Radial
Wind
Operating 50 MPH (80 Km/Hr), Gusting to 65 MPH (105 Km/Hr),
Survival at 120 MPH (193 Km/Hr)

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3 Installation Instructions
3.1 Mechanical
3.1.1 System Configuration
Figure 2: Typical System Configuration, Local Operation
3.1.2 2U Rack-Mount Controller
The 2U QTrack™Antenna Controller enclosure fits in a standard 19” rack, occupying just 2U of rack space.
Mechanical layouts are provided in Figure.
<<subject to change—check with Frank>>
Available as separate accessories

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Figure 3: Mechanical Drawing –2U Front View
Figure 4: Mechanical Drawing –2U Back View
Figure 5: Mechanical Drawing –2U Top View
3.2 Thermal
The storage temperature of the QTrack™Antenna System is rated for -40°C to +71°C, while the operating
temperature is rated for -30°C to +55°C. It is recommended that the unit be kept in a temperature controlled
environment to minimize the risk of operating (or storing) outside the ranges specified.
The 2U Controller features cooling vents on the back of its aluminum chassis. These vents must be kept entirely
unobstructed in order to allow for maximum airflow through the system. Whenever feasible, it is helpful to leave an
open rack space above and below the 2U Controller for additional heat dissipation.
3.3 Electrical
Two USB ports are located on the front panel along with the power switch, as shown in Figure 6. All 2U Controller
electrical connections are located on the rear panel, as shown in Figure 7.
Figure 6: 2U Front Panel

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3.3.1 2U Controller Rear Panel Connections
Rear panel connectors are the same for all 2U Controllers. Connectors are present whether the feature is ordered or
not. The electrical interface connectors are shown in Figure 7.
Figure 7: 2U Rear Panel
Functional descriptions and electrical characteristics for each connector located on the rear panel are described in
Table 2.
Table 2: 2U Rear Panel Connectors
Name
Description
USB
USB-A 3.0 (blue connector) for local mouse and keyboard
PC HDMI
Local connection to monitor for GUI
Positioner
D38999/20WJ43SN multi-pin connector for control umbilical
USB
USB-A 2.0 (white connector) for local mouse and keyboard
Camera HDMI
Video connection for integrated camera (CA option)
VGA
Female HD-15, Standard VGA video
Communication
Male DB-9, RS-232 comm port
Ethernet
RJ-45, Enables network access
AGC In
BNC, 1 kOhm, AGC feedback from receiver
AM In
BNC, 75 Ohm, AM feedback from receiver
TX Clock In
BNC, 75 Ohm TTL, Clock input for optional integrated uplink transmitter
TX Data In
BNC, 75 Ohm TTL, Data input for optional integrated uplink transmitter
Power (far right side)
IEC-320-C14, Supplies AC power to the unit, 100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

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4 Operating Instructions
4.1 Local Antenna Control Unit (ACU) Operation
The QTrack™Antenna System is operated via the PC Interface. With a keyboard, monitor, and mouse, users may
connect to the ACU and run the QTrack™client software which is located on the desktop.
4.1.1 Remote ACU Operation
The Local ACU and connected QTrack™System can be controlled remotely by installing the client software on the
remoted device and connecting to the ACU through an Ethernet connection. Figure 8 and Figure 9 show the
connections necessary for remote access.
4.1.1.1 Remote Access Set Up, LAN
1. Set remote PC IP address to 10.1.1.11.
2. Install client software on a remote PC.
3. Open QTrack ACU desktop icon on remote PC. ACU should automatically connect when the application
opens.
4. A small window displays while attempting to connect. If connection never occurs, click on the ACU
Settings button, and ensure QTrack server IP is set to 10.1.1.10.
When connected, full access to ACU functionality should be available from the remote PC.
Figure 8: Typical System Configuration, Remote Operation—LAN Access
4.1.1.2 Remote Access Set Up, WAN
1. Configure the Router to connect 10.1.1.10 on the LAN side.

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2. Configure the Router to connect to your desired network on the WAN side.
3. Install the client software on a remote PC.
4. Open the QTrack ACU desktop icon on the remote PC. The ACU automatically attempts to connect to the
IP address saved in the configuration.
5. A small window displays while attempting to connect. If connection never occurs, click on the ACU
Settings button, then ensure the IP is set appropriately.
When connected, full access to ACU functionality should be available from the remote PC.
Figure 9: Typical System Configuration, Remote Operation—WAN Access
4.2 ACU Main Operations Indicators and Manual Control
This section covers the simple main system operations that are available from the front panel of the ACU Graphical
User Interface (GUI). The front panel contains the operational selection buttons, as well as the display feedback
readouts and indicators. The System Operation buttons are described in the next section.
Note: Be sure the receiver AM Bandwidth is set to 15,000, and the receiver AGC Scale (dB/V) is set to 20. Connect
the Receiver combiner AGC and AM outputs to the respective ACU inputs.
1. Connect the ACU to the antenna pedestal, then turn the system on.
2. Click on the QTrack ACU desktop icon, as shown in Figure 10.

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Figure 10: QTrack ACU Desktop Icon
The QTrack ACU Graphical User Interface (GUI) displays, as shown in Figure 11.
Note: This display is for a QTrack with the TX option.
Figure 11: QTrack ACU Graphical User Interface
4.2.1 ACU Menu Bar
The ACU Menu Bar consists of icons which provide access to functionality including Logging, Status, Settings,
Tools, and Help.
4.2.1.1 Logging
The ACU is equipped with a logging feature which allows tracking status information such as AZ/EL position,
tracking error, RSSI, and much more to be logged and saved to a local .txt file.

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The Logging icon, shown in Figure 12, enables and disables the logging function. The icon illuminates green when
logging is enabled, as shown in Figure 13.
Refer to section 4.5.1 for more detailed information about logging.
Figure 12: Menu Bar, Logging Icon
Figure 13: Menu Bar, Logging Enabled
4.2.1.2 Status
The Status icon, shown in Figure 14, opens a live status reporting window for the motion controller and user inputs,
shown in Figure 15.
Figure 14: Menu Bar, Status Icon

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Figure 15: Status Window
4.2.1.3 Settings
The Settings icon, shown in Figure 16, opens the Settings window, shown in Figure 17. It is used to set or view
parameters within the ACU.
Figure 16: Menu Bar, Settings Icon

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Figure 17: Settings Window
There are three main sections in the Settings window: This Computer, ACU, and Calibration.
4.2.1.3.1 This Computer
This Computer settings let the user Enable, Disable, and Modify user input controls such as hand wheels, joystick,
and keyboard. The ACU selection shows the server IP address at 10.1.1.10. Do not modify this address as it is
critical for operation.
4.2.1.3.2 ACU
The ACU section is used to set system location coordinates and user defined position designates. Refer to section 8
(Appendix A) for transmitter control information. Most other settings in this section should not be modified without
Quasonix approval.
4.2.1.3.3 Calibration
Calibration is for True North Settings only. Refer to section 4.3.7 for True North Settings information. Do not
modify Tracking settings as these are critical for operation. The QTrack™system does not require a periodic
calibration.
4.2.1.4 Tools
The Tools icon, shown in Figure 18, opens the Tools window, shown in Figure 19. It is used to set logging
parameters, restart and shut down the server, and test joystick and hand wheel inputs. Refer to section 4.5 for more
information about the Tools window.

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Figure 18: Menu Bar, Tools Icon
Figure 19: Tools Window
4.2.1.5 Help
The Help icon, shown in Figure 20, opens the Help window, shown in Figure 21. The Help window contains contact
information, client version, and server version for the unit.
Figure 20: Menu Bar, Help Icon
Figure 21: Help Window <TBA>