Sea Tel 9497B-1 User manual

Sea Tel, Inc.
4030 Nelson Avenue
Concord, CA 94520
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: sea[email protected]om
Web: : www.cobham.com\seatel
Sea Tel Europe
Unit 1, Orion Industrial Centre
Wide Lane, Swaythling
Southampton, UK S0 18 2HJ
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: sea[email protected]om
Web: www.cobham.com\seatel
Sea Tel Inc doing business as Cobham SATCOM
December 29, 2009 Document. No. 128365 Revision B
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
FOR SEA TEL MODEL
9497B-1 C/KU-BAND TVRO ANTENNA

ii
These commodities, technology or software were exported from the United
States in accordance with the Export Administration Regulations. Diversion
contrary to U.S. law is prohibited.
Sea Tel Marine Stabilized Antenna systems are manufactured in the United
States of America.
Sea Tel is an ISO 9001:2000 registered company. Certificate Number 19.2867 was issued
August 12, 2005. Sea Tel was originally registered on November 09, 1998.
R&TTE
CE
The Series 00 Family of Marine Stabilized Antenna Pedestals with DAC-97 or DAC-03 Antenna
Control Unit complied with the requirements of European Norms and European Standards EN
60945 (1997) and prETS 300 339 (1998-03) on April 6, 2004. Sea Tel document number
122982 European Union Declaration of Conformity for Marine Navigational Equipment is
available on request.
Copyright Notice
All Rights Reserved. The information contained in this document is proprietary to Sea Tel, Inc.. This document
may not be reproduced or distributed in any form without the consent of Sea Tel, Inc. The information in this
document is subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2008 Sea Tel, Inc.
This document has been registered with the U.S. Copyright Office.

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Revision History
REV ECO# Date Description By
A N/A September 24, 2008 Initial Production Release MDN
A1 N/A November 3, 2008 Updated logo and font MDN
B 6990 December 29, 2009 Updated with GSR2 software information MDN

Table of Contents
v
1. INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.1. GENERAL SYSTEM DESCRIPTION.......................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.2. PURPOSE..................................................................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.3. SYSTEM COMPONENTS........................................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.4. GENERAL SCOPE OF THIS MANUAL....................................................................................................................................................................1-2
1.5. QUICK OVERVIEW OF CONTENTS......................................................................................................................................................................1-2
2. OPERATION.....................................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.1. SYSTEM POWER-UP..............................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.2. ANTENNA INITIALIZATION ................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.3. ANTENNA STABILIZATION .................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.4. STABILIZED PEDESTAL ASSEMBLY OPERATION.............................................................................................................................................2-1
2.5. TRACKING OPERATION........................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.6. ANTENNA POLARIZATION OPERATION............................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.7. LOW NOISE BLOCK CONVERTER OPERATION.................................................................................................................................................2-2
2.8. RADOME ASSEMBLY OPERATION......................................................................................................................................................................2-2
3. BASIC SYSTEM INFORMATION........................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1. SATELLITE BASICS ................................................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.1. C-Band Receive Frequency (3.625-4.2GHz)....................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.2. Ku-Band Receive Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz)............................................................................................................3-1
3.1.3. Blockage ...............................................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.4. Rain Fade .............................................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.5. Signal level ..........................................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.6. Satellite Footprints ........................................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.1.7. Linear Satellite polarization ......................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.2. ANTENNA BASICS.................................................................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.2.1. Unlimited Azimuth .........................................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.2.2. Elevation...............................................................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.2.3. Feed Assembly .................................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.4. Antenna polarization ....................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.5. Stabilization........................................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.6. Search Pattern..................................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.7. Tracking Receiver - Satellite Identification Receiver.................................................................................................3-3
3.2.8. Tracking ................................................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.3. COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION ........................................................................................................................................3-4
3.3.1. Antenna ADE Assembly ..............................................................................................................................................................3-5
3.3.2. Antenna Control Unit ...................................................................................................................................................................3-5
3.3.3. Above Decks AC Power Supply...............................................................................................................................................3-6
3.3.4. Satellite Receivers...........................................................................................................................................................................3-6
3.3.5. Television/Monitor .........................................................................................................................................................................3-6
3.3.6. Matrix Switch.....................................................................................................................................................................................3-6
4. INSTALLATION.............................................................................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1. GENERAL CAUTIONS &WARNINGS .................................................................................................................................................................4-1
4.2. SITE SURVEY ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.3. PREPARING FOR THE INSTALLATION................................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.3.1. Unpack Shipping Crates..............................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.3.2. Inspect / Inventory........................................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.3.3. Prepare ADE Mounting Location...........................................................................................................................................4-2

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vi
4.3.4. Preparing BDE Location..............................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.3.5. Installing The System Cables ..................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.4. ASSEMBLING THE ADE........................................................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.4.1. 126” Radome, Baseframe and Antenna Pedestal System Assembly................................................................4-3
4.4.2. 144” Radome, Baseframe and Antenna Pedestal System Assembly................................................................4-6
4.4.3. Preparing the ADE for Lift..........................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.5. INSTALLING THE ADE .........................................................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.5.1. Hoist........................................................................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.5.2. Install Antenna/Radome/Baseframe ...................................................................................................................................4-8
4.6. INSTALL BDE EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.6.1. ACU & TMS .........................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.6.2. Other BDE Equipment..................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.7. CABLE TERMINATIONS........................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.7.1. At The Radome.................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.7.2. ACU & TMS .........................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.7.3. Other BDE Equipment..................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.8. FINAL ASSEMBLY ..................................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.8.1. Remove Stow Braces/Restraints.............................................................................................................................................4-8
4.8.2. Verify all assembly and Wiring connections ...................................................................................................................4-8
4.8.3. Balance Antenna Pedestal.........................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.9. POWER-UP THE ADE ..........................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.9.1. Initialization .......................................................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.9.2. Home Flag Position........................................................................................................................................................................4-9
4.9.3. BDE..........................................................................................................................................................................................................4-9
4.10. SETUP ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................4-9
5. SETUP.................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5-1
5.1. OPERATOR SETTINGS...........................................................................................................................................................................................5-1
5.2. AUTO TRIM ........................................................................................................................................................................................................5-1
5.3. MANUALLY OPTIMIZING TARGETING .............................................................................................................................................................5-1
5.1. SAT SKEW SETTING..............................................................................................................................................................................................5-2
5.2. POLARITY ANGLE (POLANG) PARAMETERS..................................................................................................................................................5-2
5.3. OPTIMIZING AUTO-POLARIZATION CROSS-POL ISOLATION ....................................................................................................................5-2
5.4. CALIBRATING RELATIVE ANTENNA POSITION (HOME FLAG OFFSET) ....................................................................................................5-2
5.4.1. To Calculate HFO:...........................................................................................................................................................................5-3
5.4.2. To Enter the HFO value:..............................................................................................................................................................5-4
5.5. RADIATION HAZARD AND BLOCKAGE MAPPING (AZ LIMIT PARAMETERS) ........................................................................................5-5
5.6. TX POLARITY SETUP............................................................................................................................................................................................5-5
5.7. TRACK DISP........................................................................................................................................................................................................5-5
5.8. ACU FACTORY DEFAULT PARAMETER SETTINGS –SERIES 97B &00B ANTENNAS.........................................................................5-6
6. FUNCTIONAL TESTING .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1. ACU /ANTENNA SYSTEM CHECK ....................................................................................................................................................................6-1
6.2. LATITUDE/LONGITUDE AUTO-UPDATE CHECK .............................................................................................................................................6-1
6.3. SHIP HEADING –GYRO COMPASS FOLLOWING CHECK..............................................................................................................................6-1
6.4. AZIMUTH &ELEVATION DRIVE.........................................................................................................................................................................6-1
6.5. FOUR QUADRANT TRACKING TEST..................................................................................................................................................................6-1
6.6. BLOCKAGE SIMULATION TEST...........................................................................................................................................................................6-2
7. MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................................................................. 7-1

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vii
7.1. WARRANTY INFORMATION................................................................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2. RECOMMENDED PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE...............................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.1. Check ACU Parameters ...............................................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.2. Latitude/Longitude Auto-Update check ............................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.3. Heading Following..........................................................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.4. Azimuth & Elevation Drive.........................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.5. Test Tracking .....................................................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.6. Visual Inspection -Radome & Pedestal ..........................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.7. Mechanical Checks ........................................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.8. Check Balance...................................................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.9. Observe Antenna Initialization...............................................................................................................................................7-2
7.3. TROUBLESHOOTING..............................................................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.3.1. Theory Of Stabilization Operation........................................................................................................................................7-2
7.3.2. Series 97B-1 1C(Linear/Circular)/1Ku (Linear only) TVRO RF Flow.................................................................7-3
7.3.3. Antenna Initialization (Series 97B & Series 00 )...........................................................................................................7-3
7.3.4. Troubleshooting using DacRemP..........................................................................................................................................7-4
7.3.5. Antenna Loop Error Monitoring.............................................................................................................................................7-5
7.3.6. Reference Sensor Monitoring .................................................................................................................................................7-6
7.3.7. Open Loop Rate Sensor Monitoring ....................................................................................................................................7-8
7.3.8. Open Loop Motor Test.................................................................................................................................................................7-9
7.3.9. To Disable/Enable DishScan.....................................................................................................................................................7-9
7.3.10. Satellite Reference Mode...........................................................................................................................................................7-9
7.3.11. To Read/Decode an ACU Error Code 0008 (Pedestal Function Error): .......................................................7-10
7.3.12. Remote GPS LAT/LON Position:...........................................................................................................................................7-12
7.4. MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................................................................................................................7-14
7.4.1. Balancing the Antenna .............................................................................................................................................................7-14
7.4.2. Linear/Circular Mode Selection Verification and Alignment..............................................................................7-15
7.4.3. To Adjust Tilt:..................................................................................................................................................................................7-17
7.4.4. To Reset/Reinitialize the Antenna:.....................................................................................................................................7-19
7.5. PEDESTAL CONTROL UNIT CONFIGURATION (XX97B &XX00)............................................................................................................7-20
7.5.1. To configure the PCU; ...............................................................................................................................................................7-20
7.5.2. MODEL CONFIGURATION NUMBERS ............................................................................................................................7-20
7.6. ANTENNA STOWING PROCEDURE..................................................................................................................................................................7-20
8. 9497B-1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.....................................................................................................................................8-1
8.1. 9497 ANTENNA REFLECTOR.............................................................................................................................................................................8-1
8.2. FEED ASSEMBLIES.................................................................................................................................................................................................8-1
8.2.1. TVRO-1 C/Ku Linear/Circular Feed Assembly .................................................................................................................8-1
8.3. STABILIZED ANTENNA PEDESTAL ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................................8-2
8.4. 126” RADOME ASSEMBLY..................................................................................................................................................................................8-3
8.5. 144” RADOME ASSEMBLY .................................................................................................................................................................................8-3
8.6. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (ADE)...........................................................................................................................................................8-4
8.7. CABLES ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................8-4
8.7.1. Antenna Control Cable (Provided from ACU-MUX)....................................................................................................8-4
8.7.2. Antenna L-Band TVRO IF Coax Cables (Customer Furnished) ............................................................................8-4
8.7.3. AC Power Cable Above Decks (Customer Furnished) ...............................................................................................8-5
8.7.4. Gyro Compass Interface Cable (Customer Furnished)............................................................................................8-5
8.7.5. Fiber Optic Transmitter (CFE Optional).............................................................................................................................8-5
9. MODEL 9497B-1 DRAWINGS...............................................................................................................................................................9-1

Table of Contents
viii
9.1. MODEL SPECIFIC DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................................................................................9-1
9.2. SERIES 97B &00B GENERAL DRAWINGS .....................................................................................................................................................9-1

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Introduction
1-1
1. Introduction
1.1. General System Description
Your Series 97 system is a fully stabilized antenna that has been designed and manufactured so as to be inherently
reliable, easy to maintain, and simple to operate. Except for start-ups, or when changing to operate with different
transponders or satellites, the equipment essentially permits unattended operation.
1.2. Purpose
This shipboard Receive Only system provides you with satellite reception while inport or underway. Your Series 97
Antenna system will receive signals of adequately high E.I.R.P. levels (see the Specifications section of this manual), in
circular polarization mode from any of the geosynchronous satellites in your frequency band. This input will be
distributed to all of your satellite receiver which will provide the outputs to your processing equipment and a RF
“Tracking” input to the Antenna Control Unit.
1.3. System Components
Your TVRO Antenna system consists of two major groups of equipment; an above-decks group and a below-decks
group. Each group is comprised of, but is not limited to, the items listed below. All equipment comprising the Above
Decks is incorporated inside the radome assembly and is integrated into a single operational entity. For inputs, this
system requires only an unobstructed line-of-sight view to the satellite, Gyro Compass input and AC electrical power.
Video and Audio outputs from your satellite receivers are available for distribution and monitoring.
For more information about these components, refer to the Basic System Information section of this manual.
A. Above-Decks Equipment (ADE) Group
1. Stabilized antenna pedestal
2. Antenna Reflector
3. Feed Assembly with LNB(s)
4. Radome Assembly
B. Below-Decks Equipment Group
5. Antenna Control Unit
6. 2 or 4 input Matrix Switch with desired number of outputs (one output to the ACU plus enough outputs for
the installed satellite receivers).
7. Satellite Video Receiver(s) & Television(s)
8. Control, RF and Video cables

Introduction 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
1-2
Figure 1-1 TVRO Simplified Block Diagram
1.4. General scope of this manual
This manual describes the Sea Tel Series 97 Antenna (also called the Above Decks Equipment), its’ operation and
installation. Refer to the manual provided with your Antenna Control Unit for its’ installation and operating
instructions.
1.5. Quick Overview of contents
The information in this manual is organized into chapters. Operation, basic system information, installation, setup,
functional testing, maintenance, specifications and drawings relating to this Antenna are all contained in this manual

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Operation
2-1
2. Operation
2.1. System Power-up
Turn the Power switch on the louvered panel of the antenna pedestal ON. This will energize the antenna pedestal and
the associated RF equipment.
Turn the Power switch on rear panel of the Antenna Control Unit (ACU) ON.
2.2. Antenna Initialization
A functional operation check can be made on the antenna stabilization system by observing its behavior during the 4
phases of initialization.
Turn the pedestal power supply ON. The PCU will initialize the stabilized portion of the mass to be level with the
horizon and at a prescribed Azimuth and Elevation angles. The antenna will go through the specific sequence of steps
(listed below) to initialize the antenna. These phases initialize the level cage, elevation, cross-level and azimuth to
predetermined starting positions.
Initialization is completed in the following phases, each phase must complete properly for the antenna to operate
properly (post-initialization).
1. Level Cage is driven CCW, issuing extra steps to assure that the cage is all the way to the mechanical stop.
Then the Level cage will be driven exactly 45.0 degrees CW.
2. Elevation axis activates - Input from the LV axis of the tilt sensor is used to drive the Elevation of the
equipment frame to bring the tilt sensor LV axis to level (this results in the dish being at an elevation angle of
45.0 degrees).
3. Cross-Level axis activates - Input from the CL axis of the tilt sensor is used to drive Cross-Level of the
equipment frame to bring the cross-level axis of the tilt sensor to level (this results in the tilt of the Cross-
Level Beam being level).
4. Azimuth axis activates -Antenna drives in azimuth until the “Home Flag” signal is produced. This signal is
produced by a Home Switch hitting a cam or by a Hall Effect sensor in close proximity to a Magnet.
This completes the phases of initialization. At this time the antenna elevation should 45.0 degrees and Relative
azimuth should be at be at home flag (home switch engaged on the home flag cam).
If any of theses steps fail, or the Antenna Control Unit reports model number as "xx97" re-configure the PCU as
described in section the Setup section of this manual. If initialization still fails, refer to the troubleshooting section of
this manual.
2.3. Antenna Stabilization
After initialization has completed, real-time stabilization of the antenna is an automatic function of the PCU.
2.4. Stabilized Pedestal Assembly Operation
Operation of the stabilized antenna Pedestal Control Unit (PCU) is accomplished remotely by the Antenna Control Unit
(ACU). Refer to the Operation section of the Antenna Control Unit manual for more specific operation details. There
are no other operating instructions applicable to the pedestal assembly by itself.
2.5. Tracking Operation
Tracking optimizes the antenna pointing, in very fine step increments, to maximize the level of the satellite signal
being received. The mode of tracking used in this antenna is a variation of Conical Scanning called DishScan.
DishScan continuously drives the antenna in a very small circular pattern at 60 RPM. The ACU evaluates the received
signal throughout each rotation to determine where the strongest signal level is (Up, Right, Down or Left) and issues
the appropriate Azimuth and/or Elevation steps to the antenna, as needed.
You cannot control tracking from the pedestal itself. Refer to the ACU manual for tracking operation information.
2.6. Antenna Polarization Operation
Your Scalar Plate assembly is equipped with a polarization motor and potentiometer feedback that are controlled from
the Antenna Control Unit. This allows you to have a Linear, or a Circular, feed assembly installed on your antenna.

Operation 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
2-2
When you have a Circular feed installed, polarization adjustment. is NOT required. You should set the POL TYPE
parameter in your ACU to 0000.
When you have a Linear feed installed, polarization may be operated manually from the ACU but Auto-Polarization
mode is the default polarization mode of operation from the ACU and is strongly recommended (set POL TYPE
parameter in your ACU to 0072). Refer to the Antenna Control Unit manual for more operation information.
2.7. Low Noise Block Converter Operation
There are no operating instructions or controls applicable to the LNB. This unit is energized whenever the matrix
switch and satellite receiver(s) have AC power connected to them.
Satellite signals are either circular polarized (spiraling plane down from the satellite) or linear polarized (fixed plane
down from the satellite). The pedestal will receive circular polarization signals when a circular LNB is installed on the
back of the dish. Conversely, the pedestal will only receive linear polarized signals when a linear LNB is installed.
2.8. Radome Assembly Operation
When operating the system it is necessary that the radome access hatch (and/or side door) be closed and secured in
place at all times. This prevents rain, salt water and wind from entering the radome. Water and excessive
condensation promote rust & corrosion of the antenna pedestal. Wind gusts will disturb the antenna pointing.
There are no other operating instructions applicable to the radome assembly by itself.

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Basic System Information
3-1
3. Basic System Information
This section provides you with some additional information about the satellites you will be using, basics of your Series antenna
system and some of the other equipment within your system configuration.
3.1. Satellite Basics
The satellites are in orbit at an altitude of 22,754 miles and are positioned directly above the equator. Their orbital
velocity matches the Earth’s rotational speed, therefore, each appears to remain at a fixed position in the sky (as
viewed from your location).
Your antenna can be used with any of the satellites in this orbit that have a strong enough receive signal level. Your
antenna is capable of being fitted with a Linear or Circular feed assembly. The feed may be designed to operate at C-
Band frequencies, Ku-Band frequencies or be capable of operation in both bands. With the correct feed assembly you
will be able to receive the linear or circular signal at the specific frequency range of the desired satellite.
3.1.1.
At these frequencies the signal from the satellite travels only in a straight line and is affected by weather
changes in the atmosphere. There are several conditions that can cause a temporary loss of satellite signal,
even within an area where the signal level is known to be adequate. The most common of these normal
temporary losses are blockage and rain fade. They will interrupt services only as long as the cause of the
loss persists.
C-Band Receive Frequency (3.625-4.2GHz)
3.1.2.
At these frequencies the signal from the satellite travels only in a straight line and is affected by weather
changes in the atmosphere. There are several conditions that can cause a temporary loss of satellite signal,
even within an area where the signal level is known to be adequate. The most common of these normal
temporary losses are blockage and rain fade. They will interrupt services only as long as the cause of the
loss persists.
Ku-Band Receive Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz)
3.1.3.
Blockage is loss due to an object in the path of the signal from the satellite to the dish. If an object that is
large and dense is positioned in the path of the signal from the satellite, it will prevent sufficient signal from
arriving at the dish. The signal can not bend around, or penetrate through, these objects and the reception
will be degraded or completely interrupted. The dish is actively driven to remain pointed at the satellite
(toward the equator) so, as the ship turns a mast or raised structure of your ship may become positioned
between the satellite and the dish. Blockage may also be caused a anything standing near the radome, tall
mountains, buildings, bridges, cranes or other larger ships near your ship. Moving or rotating the ship to
position the antenna where it has an unobstructed view to the desired satellite will restore the antennas’
ability to receive the satellite signal.
Blockage
3.1.4.
Atmospheric conditions that may cause sufficient loss of signal level include rain, snow, heavy fog and some
solar activities (sun spot and flare activity). The most common of these is referred to as “rain fade”. Rain
drops in the atmosphere reduce the signal from the satellite. The heavier the rain the higher the amount of
signal loss. When the amount of loss is high enough, the antenna will not be able to stay locked onto the
satellite signal. When the amount of rain has decreased sufficiently, the antenna will re-acquire the satellite
signal. In a strong signal area, rain fall of about four inches per hour will cause complete loss of signal. In
weaker signal areas the effects would be more pronounced.
Rain Fade
3.1.5.
The level of the receive signal is dependant upon how powerful the transmission is, how wide the signal beam
is, and what the coverage area is. Focusing the signal into a narrower beam concentrates its energy over a
smaller geographic area, thereby increasing the signal level throughout that area of coverage. This makes it
possible for you to use a smaller antenna size to receive that satellite signal. The antenna system must be
geographically located in an area where the signal level from the satellite meets (or exceeds) the minimum
Signal level

Basic System Information 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
3-2
Figure 3-1 Satellite Signal Polarization
satellite signal level required for your size of antenna (refer to the Specifications section of this manual) to
provide suitable reception. This limits the number of satellites that can be used and the geographic areas
where the ship can travel where the signal level is expected to be strong enough to continue providing
uninterrupted reception. When traveling outside this minimum signal coverage area, it is normal for the
system to experience an interruption in its ability to provide the desired satellite services until entering (or re-
entering) an area of adequate signal level.
3.1.6.
The focused beam(s) from the satellites are normally aimed at the major land masses where there are large
population centers. Footprint charts graphically display the signal level expected to be received in different
geographic locations within the area of coverage. The signal will always be strongest in the center of the
coverage area and weaker out toward the outer edges of the pattern. The coverage areas are intended to be
a guide to reception, however, the actual coverage area and signal level and vary. Also the signal strength is
affected by weather.
Satellite Footprints
3.1.7.
Satellites may transmit their signals in
one of two different polarization
modes. The feed installed on your
antenna must be designed to operate
with linear polarized satellite
transmissions.
Linear Satellite polarization
Circular polarized satellite
transmissions do not require
polarization adjustment to optimize
the reception.
Linear polarized satellite transmissions
require periodic adjustment of
“polarization” to optimize the
alignment of the LNB to the angle of the signal from the satellite.
When you are at the same longitude as the satellite, its’ horizontal and vertical signals will be aligned to your
local horizon. When you are east or west of the satellite, the signals will appear to be rotated clockwise or
counter-clockwise from your local horizontal and vertical. Both horizontal and vertical signals from a satellite
will appear to be rotated the same amount and are always perpendicular to each other. The amount of
rotation is dependent on how far east or west you are form the satellite and how close you are to the
Equator.
3.2. Antenna Basics
The following information is provided to explain some of the basic functions of the antenna:
3.2.1.
Azimuth rotation of the antenna is unlimited (no mechanical stops). Azimuth drive, provided by the azimuth
motor, is required during stabilization, searching and tracking operations of the antenna. When the ship turns,
azimuth is driven in the opposite direction to remain pointed at the satellite. The actual azimuth pointing
angle to the satellite is determined by your latitude & longitude and the longitude of the satellite. It is
important to know that the antenna should be pointed (generally) toward the equator.
Unlimited Azimuth
The azimuth angle to the satellite would be 180 degrees true (relative to true north) if the satellite is on the
same longitude that you are on. If the satellite is east, or west, of your longitude the azimuth will be less than,
or greater than 180 degrees respectively.
When checking for blockage you can visually look over the antenna radome toward the equator to see if any
objects are in that sighted area. If you are not able to find any satellites it may also be useful to remove the
radome hatch to visually see if the dish is aimed the correct direction (towards the equator).
3.2.2.
In normal operation the elevation of the antenna will be between 00.0 (horizon) and 90.0 (zenith). The
antenna can physically be rotated in elevation below horizon and beyond zenith to allow for ship motion.
Elevation drive, provided by the elevation motor, is required during stabilization, searching and tracking
Elevation

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Basic System Information
3-3
operations of the antenna. The actual elevation pointing angle to the satellite is determined by your latitude
& longitude and the longitude of the satellite. In general terms the elevation angle will be low when you are
at a high latitudes and will increase as you get closer to the equator.
Additionally, from any given latitude, the elevation will be highest when the satellite is at the same longitude
that you are on. If the satellite is east, or west, of your longitude the elevation angle will be lower.
3.2.3.
The scalar section of the feed is fitted with a polarization motor and a potentiometer for position feedback
required for linear signal operation. The feed may be fitted for Linear or Circular reception. The appropriate
LNA, LNB or LNC must be installed on the Linear or Circular section of the feed to receive the frequencies of
the desired satellite.
Feed Assembly
When a Linear feed is installed, the ACU automatically adjusts the feed by remotely controlling the 24 volt
DC motor, using the potentiometer feedback for Linear polarization position (Auto-Polarization mode).
When a Circular feed is installed, no polarization adjustment is required because the circular feed receives the
signal properly regardless of its polarization position.
The feed may be dual band (C-Band and Ku-Band) allowing you to use either band. The Tracking - Band
Selection remotely controls coax switches mounted on the antenna pedestal to select which LNB outputs are
routed through the antenna pedestal to the Below Decks Equipment.
3.2.4.
You have a linear polarization feed installed, the system should have been adjusted properly and set-up to
operate in Auto-Polarization mode. The ACU will then automatically adjust the polarization of the feed, as
necessary, while the ship travels in Latitude and Longitude.
Antenna polarization
3.2.5.
Your antenna is stabilized in all three axes of motion. Stabilization is the process of de-coupling the ships’
motion from the antenna. Simply put, this allows the antenna to remain pointed at a point in space while the
boat turns, rolls or pitches under it. To accomplish this, the Pedestal Control Unit (PCU) on the antenna
pedestal assembly senses the motion and applies drive to the appropriate motor(s) in opposition to the
sensed motion. Azimuth (AZ), Elevation (EL) and Cross-Level (left-right tilt) are actively stabilized
automatically by the PCU as part of its normal operation.
Stabilization
3.2.6.
Whenever the desired satellite signal is lost (such as when the antenna is blocked) the Antenna Control Unit
will automatically initiated a Search to re-acquire the desired signal.
Search Pattern
Search is conducted in a two-axis pattern consisting of alternate movements in azimuth and elevation. The
size and direction of the movements are increased and reversed every other time resulting in an expanding
square pattern.
When the antenna is able to re-acquire the desired signal the ACU will automatically stop searching and begin
Tracking the signal to optimize the pointing of the antenna to get the highest signal level from the satellite.
3.2.7.
The Satellite Identification Receiver located in the Antenna Control Unit (ACU) is used to acquire, identify
and track a specific satellite by its unique hexadecimal ID code. When properly setup, the settings for the
satellite are saved to expedite future acquisition of the desired satellite.
Tracking Receiver - Satellite Identification Receiver
When searching for the selected satellite this receiver compares the present satellite ID to the targeted
satellite ID code. If the ID code does not match the antenna will continue searching until the correct satellite
is found. The system must have adequate satellite signal level, AND the matching NID, to stop searching (and
begin tracking the desired satellite).
3.2.8.
Your Antenna Control Unit actively optimizes the pointing of the dish for maximum signal reception. This
process is called tracking and is accomplished by continuously making small movements of the dish while
monitoring the level of the received signal. Evaluation of this information is used to continuously move the
stabilization point toward peak satellite signal reception. These minor pointing corrections keep the signal
level “peaked” as part of normal operation.
Tracking

Basic System Information 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
3-4
3.3. Components of the System Configuration
Figure 3-2 TVRO Simplified Block Diagram
The following text provides a basic functional overview of the system components and component interconnection as
referred to in the simplified block diagram for your Series antenna. Also, refer to the appropriate page of the System
Block Diagram which depicts your system configuration.

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Basic System Information
3-5
3.3.1.
The Above Decks Equipment consists of an Antenna Pedestal inside a Radome assembly. The pedestal
consists of a satellite antenna dish & feed with a linear, or a circular Low Noise Block converter (LNB) with
polarization motor mounted on a stabilized antenna pedestal. The radome provides an environmental
enclosure for the antenna pedestal assembly
inside it. This keeps wind, water
condensation and salt-water spray off the
antenna pedestal assembly. This prevents
damage and corrosion that would shorten
the expected life span of the equipment.
Antenna ADE Assembly
The antenna control cable is connected
between the antenna radome assembly and
the antenna control panel. This cable
provides DC voltage to the antenna and all
control signals to and from the antenna.
Six RG-6 (or better) coax cables are
connected from the antenna radome
assembly to the below decks equipment.
One of these cables is the Antenna Control
Cable, which has the DC operating voltage
for the antenna and the antenna control
communication between the Antenna
Control Unit and the Pedestal Control Unit.
Four cables carry the intermediate frequency
(950-2050MHz) signals from the antenna
assembly directly to the matrix switch and
the DC Voltage & Tone switching from the
Matrix Switch to the a the LNB. All four are
provided, even if you are only currently using
two for the LNB you presently have installed on your antenna. These cables ultimately provide the input
signal into the satellite receiver(s). And finally, one coax is installed as a spare.
3.3.2.
The Antenna Control Unit allows the operator to control and monitor the antenna pedestal with dedicated
function buttons, LED’s and a 2 line display. The ACU and its Terminal Mounting Strip are normally mounted
in a standard 19” equipment rack. The ACU should be mounted in the front of the equipment rack where it is
easily accessible. The Terminal Mounting Strip is normally mounted on the rear of the equipment rack. It is
recommended that the antenna control unit be mounted near the Satellite modem location where you can
see the LED indicators while you are controlling the antenna.
Antenna Control Unit
The Antenna Control Unit is connected to the antenna, ships Gyro Compass and Satellite modem.
Figure 3-4 Antenna Control Unit
The Antenna Control Unit (ACU) communicates via an RS-422 full duplex data link with the Pedestal Control
Unit (PCU) located on the antenna. This control signal to/from the antenna is on the Coax cable along with
the L-Band Receive IF from the LNB. The Pedestal Control Unit stabilizes the antenna against the ship's roll,
pitch, and turning motions. The ACU is the operator interface to the PCU and provides the user with a choice
of positioning commands to point the antenna, search commands to find the satellite signal and tracking
functions to maintain optimum pointing. The operator may choose to work from either the front panel, using
the M&C Port in conjunction with DacRemP remote diagnostic software, or the built in Ethernet port and a
internal HTML page using a standard internet browser .
Figure 3-3 Series 97 TVRO Above Decks Equipment

Basic System Information 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
3-6
3.3.3.
Pedestal Power -An appropriate source of AC Voltage (110 VAC 60 Hz OR 220 VAC 50 Hz) is required for
the above decks equipment. Refer to the Specifications section of this manual for the power consumption of
the antenna pedestal.
Above Decks AC Power Supply
3.3.4.
The TVRO Antenna system, with the appropriate LNB installed, can be used with standard European satellite
receivers, and Integrated Receiver-Decoders (IRD). Both can receive “free” programming, but an IRD is
required when the desired programming is encrypted. When authorized, it will decode the encrypted signals
for use. Authorizing the receiver-decoder is a process of registering your receiver(s) and paying subscription
fees to the service provider. The service provider then arranges for a signal to be sent through the satellite to
your receiver-decoder, which will “enable” it to decode the programming you subscribed to.
Satellite Receivers
A coax connection from the antenna (via the matrix switch) provides signal input to the receiver. The
receiver also outputs voltage and tone control to the matrix switch to select the correct band and
polarization signal for the channel you want to watch. A coax connection from the TV OUTPUT jack on the
satellite receiver is connected to the ANTENNA INPUT on the television. Alternately, individual audio/video,
Audio & S-Video, or SCART cable connections may be made between the satellite receiver and the television.
3.3.5.
An appropriate television monitor is used to view the satellite television programming and to view the on
screen displays from the receiver.
Television/Monitor
3.3.6.
A matrix switch must be installed with all of the antenna IF coax cables connected to its’ LNB inputs. A coax
cable (RG-6 OR greater) is connected from each matrix switch output to each satellite receiver. Sea Tel
recommends that an ACTIVE Matrix be used in all installations. Matrix switches with 4, 8, 12 and 16 outputs
are available.
Matrix Switch
Each of the outputs can be connected to a satellite receiver, one of these outputs must be connected the
tracking receiver in the ACU. Each output of the matrix switch is controlled by voltage, and/or tone, from the
satellite connected to that output connector. This voltage, and/or tone, selects which of the input signals
gets routed to that output connector, therefore, to that receiver. Each output of the matrix switch operates
independently of the others, therefore, allows the satellite receivers to operate independently also. As you
change channels on the satellite receiver, it uses the voltage, and/or tone, to select the correct signal input for
the channel you have selected.

9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO Installation
4-1
4. Installation
This section contains instructions for unpacking, final assembly and installation of the equipment. It is highly recommended
that final assembly and installation of the Antenna system be performed by trained technicians. Read this complete section
before starting.
4.1. General Cautions & Warnings
WARNING: Assure that all nut & bolt assemblies are tightened according the tightening
torque values listed below:
Bolt Size Inch Pounds
1/4-20 75
5/l6-18 132
3/8-16 236
1/2-13 517
NOTE: All nuts and bolts should be assembled using the appropriate Loctite thread-locker
product number for the thread size of the hardware.
Loctite # Description
222 Low strength for small fasteners.
243 Medium strength, oil tolerant.
680 High strength for Motor Shafts & Sprockets.
271 Permanent strength for up to 1” diameter fasteners.
290 Wicking, High strength for fasteners which are already assembled.
WARNING: Hoisting with other than a webbed four-part sling may result in catastrophic
crushing of the radome. Refer to the specifications and drawings for the fully assembled weight
of your model Antenna/Radome and assure that equipment used to lift/hoist this system is
rated accordingly.
CAUTION: The antenna/radome assembly is very light for its size and is subject to large
swaying motions if hoisted under windy conditions. Always ensure that tag lines, attached to
the radome base frame, are attended while the antenna assembly is being hoisted to its
assigned location aboard ship.
WARNING: Electrical Hazard – Dangerous AC Voltages exist inside the Antenna Pedestal
Breaker Box. Observe proper safety precautions when working inside the Pedestal Breaker Box.
WARNING: Electrical Hazard – Dangerous AC Voltages exists on the side of the Antenna
Pedestal Power Supply. Observe proper safety precautions when working inside the Pedestal
Power Supply.

Installation 9497B-1 C/Ku-Band TVRO
4-2
4.2. Site Survey
The radome assembly should be installed at a location aboard ship where:
1. The antenna has a clear line-of-sight to as much of the sky (horizon to zenith at all bearings) as is practical.
2. Direct radiation into the antenna from ships radar, especially high power surveillance radar arrays, is
minimized. The radome should be as far away from the ships Radar as possible and should NOT be mounted
on the same plane as the ships Radar (so that it is not directly in the Radar beam path).
3. The radome should be as far away from the ships high power short wave (MF & HF) transmitting antennas as
possible.
4. The Above Decks Equipment (ADE) and the Below Decks Equipment (BDE) should be positioned as close to
one another as possible. This is necessary to reduce the losses associated with long cable runs.
5. The mounting location is rigid enough that it will not flex, or sway, in ships motion or vibration. If the radome
is to be mounted on a raised pedestal, it MUST have adequate gussets, or be well guyed, to prevent flexing or
swaying in ships motion.
If these conditions cannot be entirely satisfied, the site selection will inevitably be a “best” compromise between the
various considerations.
4.3. Preparing For The Installation
4.3.1.
Exercise caution when unpacking the equipment.
Unpack Shipping Crates
4.3.2.
Carefully inspect the radome panel surfaces for evidence of shipping damage. Inspect the pedestal assembly
and reflector for signs of shipping damage.
Inspect / Inventory
4.3.3.
Prepare the mounting location for the Radome. If the radome is to be bolted to the deck (or a platform)
assure that the mounting holes have been drilled. Assure that the mounting hardware has obtained and is
readily available.
Prepare ADE Mounting Location
4.3.4.
Prepare the mounting location for the Below Decks Equipment. These equipments would normally be
installed in a standard 19” equipment rack. Refer to the Antenna Control Unit manual for installation of the
ACU and the Terminal Mounting Strip.
Preparing BDE Location
Refer to the vendor supplied manuals for installation of the other below decks equipments.
Prepare other locations throughout ship for any other equipment which is not co-located with the ACU.
4.3.5.
Install appropriate cables from Below Decks Equipment to the ADE Location(s).
Installing The System Cables
The cables must be routed from the above-decks equipment group through the deck and through various ship
spaces to the vicinity of the below-decks equipment group. When pulling the cables in place, avoid the use of
excessive force. Exercise caution during the cable installation to assure that the cables are not severely bent
(proper bend radius), kinked or twisted and that connectors are not damaged.
Assure that the cables have been run through watertight fittings and/or will not permit water entry into the
ship when the installation is completed. After cables have been routed and adjusted for correct cable length
at each end, seal the deck penetration glands and tie the cables securely in place.
4.4. Assembling the ADE
The assembly procedure described below begins by sub-assembling sections of the Baseframe, radome and pedestal.
Then these are assembled to form the ADE. Your system can be purchased with a 126” radome or a 144” radome,
please follow the appropriate assembly instructions below for your radome.