Sea Tel COASTAL 18 Owner's manual

Sea Tel, Inc.
4030 Nelson Avenue
Concord, CA 94520
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.seatel.com Look to the Leader. Look to Sea Tel.
Sea Tel Europe
Unit 1, Orion Industrial Centre
Wide Lane, Swaythling
Southampton, UK S0 18 2HJ
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.seatel.com
February 21, 2006 Document. No. 124769
Revision A
INSTALLATION AN OPERATION
FOR SEA TEL MODEL
COASTAL 18 SATELLITE TV RECEIVE-ONLY ANTENNA
WITHOUT POLARIZATION
Please record your Antenna Serial Number Here;
Antenna Size: _______ Serial Number: _______________

ii
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.
The Coastal Series of Marine Stabilized Antenna Pedestals with Antenna Control
Panel complied with the requirements of European Norms and European Standards
EN 60945 (1997) and prETS 300 339 (1998-03) on June 30, 1999. Sea Tel
European Union Declaration of Conformity for this equipment is contained in this
manual.
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 © 2006 Sea Tel, Inc.

iv
Revision History
REV ECO# Date Description By
A N/A February 17, 2006 Initial production release. 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.................................................................................................... 1-1
1.5. QUICK OVERVIEW OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................................... 1-2
2. OPERATION ....................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1. NORMAL OPERATION FLOWCHART ................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2. SYSTEM START-UP......................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.2.1. Power-up/Initialization Phase........................................................................................... 2-2
2.2.2. Search phase ................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.2.3. Tracking phase................................................................................................................. 2-3
2.3. OPERATION MODE SCENERIOS ........................................................................................................ 2-3
2.3.1. Switching Satellites .......................................................................................................... 2-3
2.3.2. Adjusting Polarization....................................................................................................... 2-3
2.4. LINEAR POLARIZATION ADJUSTMENT ................................................................................................ 2-4
2.4.1. Optimizing the polarization while on the desired satellite ................................................ 2-4
2.4.2. Setting polarization for a different satellite (changing satellites)...................................... 2-5
2.4.3. Setting polarization when you have changed geographic areas .....................................2-5
2.5. LOSS OF SATELLITE DUE TO BLOCKAGE OR RAIN-FADE ....................................................................... 2-6
2.6. LOW NOISE BLOCK CONVERTER OPERATION .................................................................................... 2-6
2.7. RADOME ASSEMBLY OPERATION...................................................................................................... 2-6
3. BASIC SYSTEM INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1. SATELLITE BASICS........................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.1. Ku-Band Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz) Satellites ........................................................... 3-1
3.1.2. Blockage .......................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.3. Rain Fade......................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.4. Signal level....................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.5. Satellite Footprints ........................................................................................................... 3-2
3.1.6. Satellite Footprint Charts ................................................................................................. 3-2
3.1.7. Satellite polarization ......................................................................................................... 3-2
3.2. ANTENNA BASICS ............................................................................................................................ 3-3
3.2.1. Azimuth ............................................................................................................................ 3-3
3.2.2. Elevation .......................................................................................................................... 3-3
3.2.3. Antenna polarization (Linear or Circular) .........................................................................3-3
3.2.4. Stabilization...................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.5. Search Pattern ................................................................................................................. 3-4
3.2.6. Satellite Identification Receiver........................................................................................3-4
3.2.7. Tracking ........................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.8. Unwrap ............................................................................................................................. 3-4
3.3. COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION............................................................................... 3-5
3.3.1. Antenna Assembly ........................................................................................................... 3-5
3.3.2. Display Antenna Control Panel ........................................................................................ 3-5
3.3.3. Power Supply ................................................................................................................... 3-6

Table of Contents
vi
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. SITE SELECTION AND CABLE ROUTING .............................................................................................4-1
4.2. EQUIPMENT AND CABLE INSTALLATION .............................................................................................. 4-2
4.2.1. Cutouts & mounting holes................................................................................................4-3
4.2.2. Cable routing....................................................................................................................4-3
4.2.3. Radome Mounting and antenna cable connections.........................................................4-3
4.2.4. Other system cable connections......................................................................................4-6
4.3. SYSTEM SETUP ...............................................................................................................................4-7
5. SETUP .................................................................................................................................................5-1
5.1. SYSTEM CHECKOUT ........................................................................................................................5-1
5.2. INITIAL SETUP .................................................................................................................................5-1
5.2.1. Adjusting Panel Brightness ..............................................................................................5-1
5.2.2. Setting Auto Threshold for Proper Tracking..................................................................... 5-2
5.2.3. SAT1 - First Satellite Parameters ..................................................................................5-2
5.2.4. SAT2 - Second Satellite Parameters .............................................................................5-6
5.2.5. SAT3 - Third Satellite Parameters ................................................................................. 5-6
5.2.6. SAT4 - Fourth Satellite Parameters ............................................................................... 5-6
5.2.7. SAT5 - Fifth Satellite Parameters ..................................................................................5-7
5.2.8. SAT6 - Sixth Satellite Parameters .................................................................................5-7
5.2.9. FACTORY SETTINGS ..................................................................................................... 5-7
5.3. LINEAR POLARIZATION ADJUSTMENT ................................................................................................ 5-8
5.3.1. Optimizing the polarization while on the desired satellite ................................................ 5-9
5.3.2. Setting polarization for a different satellite (changing satellites)......................................5-9
5.3.3. Setting polarization when you have changed geographic areas ...................................5-10
5.4. SAVING THE SETUP PARAMETERS ................................................................................................5-10
5.5. OPERATIONAL SYSTEM CHECKS..................................................................................................... 5-11
6. MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................................6-1
6.1. WARRANTY INFORMATION................................................................................................................ 6-1
6.2. WHO TO CONTACT FOR REPAIRS.......................................................................................................6-1
6.3. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE .............................................................................................................6-2
6.4. FAULT ISOLATION/TROUBLE-SHOOTING ............................................................................................6-2
6.5. PEDESTAL & PCU TROUBLESHOOTING USING BUILT-IN TEST (BIT) .................................................. 6-3
6.5.1. ADC Test..........................................................................................................................6-3
6.5.2. DAC Test..........................................................................................................................6-4
6.5.3. AZ Motor Driver Test........................................................................................................6-4
6.5.4. EL Motor Driver Test ........................................................................................................6-4
6.5.5. POL Motor Driver Test .....................................................................................................6-4
6.5.6. Sensor Test ......................................................................................................................6-5
6.5.7. AZ move/ Rate sensor test............................................................................................... 6-5
6.5.8. Pol Pot/Motor move test...................................................................................................6-5
6.6. REPLACING A DEFECTIVE LNB ......................................................................................................... 6-6

Table of Contents
vii
7. COASTAL 18 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................. 7-1
7.1. INSTALLED WEIGHT ......................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.2. RADOME ......................................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.3. ANTENNA ........................................................................................................................................ 7-1
7.4. CIRCULAR LNB OPTIONS................................................................................................................. 7-1
7.4.1. US Circular LNB............................................................................................................... 7-1
7.4.2. KoreaSat Circular LNB.....................................................................................................7-2
7.4.3. DLA Circular LNB............................................................................................................. 7-2
7.5. LINEAR LNB OPTIONS ..................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.5.1. Aussat Linear LNB ........................................................................................................... 7-2
7.5.2. US Linear LNB ................................................................................................................. 7-2
7.5.3. European Quad Universal Linear LNB.............................................................................7-3
7.6. STABILIZED PEDESTAL..................................................................................................................... 7-3
7.7. PEDESTAL CONTROL UNIT ............................................................................................................... 7-4
7.7.1. DVB Compliant Tracking Receiver .................................................................................. 7-4
7.8. BELOW DECKS INTERFACE............................................................................................................... 7-4
7.9. POWER REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................. 7-5
7.10. ENVIRONMENTAL.......................................................................................................................... 7-5
8. COMPUTER INTERFACE .................................................................................................................. 8-1
8.1. CONNECTING THE COMPUTER .......................................................................................................... 8-1
8.2. COMMUNICATING WITH THE COASTAL SERIES PCU........................................................................... 8-2
9. DRAWINGS......................................................................................................................................... 9-1

Table of Contents
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Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO Introduction
1-1
1. Introduction
1.1. General System Description
Your system includes a fully stabilized antenna that has been designed and manufactured so as to be
inherently reliable, easy to maintain, and simple to operate. The equipment essentially permits unattended
operation except for start-ups or when changing to different transponders, or satellites.
1.2. Purpose
This shipboard TeleVision Receive Only (TVRO) system provides you with maritime satellite TV
programming while you are inport or underway. Your Coastal Antenna system will receive signals of
adequately high E.I.R.P. levels (see the Specifications section of this manual), in linear or circular
polarization mode (with the appropriate LNB fitted) from any of the geosynchronous TV satellites at Ku-band.
This input will be distributed to all of your satellite TV receivers which will provide the Audio/Video to your
televisions. Many satellites also provide CD quality audio programming which may also be routed to your
stereo.
1.3. System Components
The Coastal system consists of two major groups of equipment; an above-decks group and a below-decks
group. Each group is comprised of the items shown, and 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 and DC electrical power.
The IF signals from the antenna are distributed to the satellite receivers by the matrix switch. Video and
Audio inputs to your Television(s) are provided by your satellite receiver(s).
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 with built-in GPS
1 Antenna Reflector
2 Manual Polarization Feed Assembly with LNB
3 Radome Assembly
B. Below-Decks Equipment Group
4 DACP Display Antenna Control Panel
5 2 or 4 input active Matrix Switch with desired number of outputs (one output to each of the installed
satellite receivers).
6 Satellite Video Receiver(s) & Television(s)
7 Control, RF and Video cables
1.4. General scope of this manual
This manual describes the Sea Tel Coastal Antenna (also called the Above Decks Equipment), its operation
and installation. Your system may contain other Below Deck Equipments which your dealer provided to you.
Refer to the manuals for those equipments for their installation and operating instructions.

Introduction Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
1-2
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 TVRO Antenna are all
contained in this manual

Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO Operation
2-1
2. Operation
Detailed information on operating your Coastal Series antenna from the control panel is contained below. For
quick reference information, please refer to the laminated card titled “Quick Start Operation” or the previous
section.
2.1. Normal Operation Flowchart
The flowchart below is a quick reference from Power ON to Normal Operation Tracking a satellite. The
paragraphs following this flowchart explain these phases in more detail.
Figure 2-1 Display Antenna Control Panel – Operation Flowchart

Operation Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
2-2
Figure 2-2 Display Antenna Control Panel
2.2. System Start-Up
Normal operation begins by
pressing the POWER key and
waiting for the antenna to
automatically acquire and
track the desired satellite
signal. After the system has
been properly installed and
set up, this initialization
should take approximately 1
minute. The following
displays may be seen during
the start-up of the system.
2.2.1. Power-up/Initialization Phase
SEA TEL INC.
SN. 98005520
Second line will display the antenna pedestal serial number that
has been saved in the Pedestal Control Unit (PCU), for a few
seconds.
COASTAL 18
INITIALIZING ✴
The Model number that has been saved in the PCU will be
displayed on the top line. “INITIALIZING” followed by a “o” until
the GPS has a valid position. When the GPS has a valid position
“INITIALIZING ✴
✴✴
✴” is displayed.
2.2.2. Search phase
Sat1 NAME12 1234
Search Message
1
First line of the display will be comprised of:
1 Sat1, Sat2, Sat3, Sat4, Sat5 or Sat6.
2 NAME12 is the 6 character name of the satellite being searched for (1 of 6 saved satellites). If
satellite information has been entered (see SETUP MODE) the name of the selected saved
satellite(s) will be displayed.
3 1234 will be the actual value of signal level being received (AGC).
Second line of the display may display any one of the following search messages:
4 Search Delay ## - Number value while the antenna is delaying.
5 Search @ EL 35 - System is conducting a linear search at the Elevation angle displayed.

Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO Operation
2-3
6 Search Wait - Indicates that a signal has been detected and the antenna is peaking the signal
level.
7 NID HHHH EL ## - Will be displayed whenever a satellite signal is found. This message is
comprised of Network ID and the Elevation for the satellite being targeted or which satellite has
been found. HHHH is the 4 digit HEX value of the Network ID reported by the Satellite
Identification Receiver in the PCU. If satellite information has been previously saved and
matches the satellite found, the system will immediately go into TRACKING mode and display
this information. If this is NOT the desired satellite the system will continue searching by
displaying “Search Next UP” or “Search Next DN”.
8 Search Next UP - Will be displayed whenever the system conducts a search for the next
satellite UP (CW/Right) from the satellite location it was previously at. This search may be
initiated automatically or when the operator presses the NEXT key.
9 Search Next DN - Will be displayed whenever the system conducts a search for the next
satellite DOWN (CCW/Left) from the satellite location it was previously at. This search may be
initiated automatically or when the operator presses the NEXT key.
2.2.3. Tracking phase
Sat1 DTV101 1876
NID FFFE EL 45
2
First line of the TRACKING display will be the information for the satellite which is currently being tracked.
In the display example above, the system is tracking the Sat1 satellite selection, named DTV101
(DirecTV at 101W) with a signal strength of 1876 counts of AGC.
Second line of the TRACKING display is the NID currently being received (FFFE) and the current
Elevation angle of the antenna (45 degrees).
This display indicates that the system has now entered into OPERATION mode. TRACKING LED is ON.
2.3. Operation Mode Scenerios
Below are some common examples of operating the system when Sat1, Sat2, Sat3, Sat4, Sat5 and Sat6
information has been saved. You can also refer to the Operation Flow Chart. If satellites have not been
previously saved, refer to Section 5 – Initial Setup.
2.3.1. Switching Satellites
Press NEXT to switch to the next (numerically) satellite.
2.3.2. Adjusting Polarization
Polarization adjustment is NOT required when you are outfitted for circular satellite usage.
If you have a Linear LNB installed, you will have to manually adjust the polarization. Manual adjustment
will be required whenever the boat has traveled about 10 degrees of latitude or longitude from where you
last adjusted the linear polarization.

Operation Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
2-4
Fi
g
ure 2-3 LNB rotation durin
g
p
olarization ad
j
ustment
Figure 2-4 LNB rotation during polarization adjustment
2.4. Linear Polarization Adjustment
Polarization is adjusted for a desired
satellite when the system is initially
installed. Subsequently it needs only to
be adjusted when changing from one
satellite to another, or when the boat has
traveled a significant geographic
distance. It should NOT need to be re-
adjusted if the boat stays in the same
location and is operating on the same
satellite.
Polarization of your Series 98SL antenna
must be accomplished manually. Each
time you need to adjust the polarization
you will have to take the radome top off,
loosen the LNB mounting set screws and
rotate the LNB. When you have
optimized the polarity, tighten the set
screws and put the radome top back on.
The adjacent figure shows the rotation of
the LNB assembly mounted on the back
side of the dish as it would be seen if observed while polarization is being adjusted. As the polarization is
mis-adjusted, the signal level will degrade. If it is mis-adjusted far enough, the signal will be completely lost.
Note: The polarization entry from the Antenna Control Panel will NOT electrically rotate your LNB. Each
momentary keypress of the ▲(POL UP), or ▼(POL DOWN), will increment/decrement the displayed value
but will NOT rotate the LNB.
The antenna reports that it is tracking a good signal by displaying a steady (ON) TRACKING LED. If you
determine that the satellite signal is not the desired satellite, press the NEXT key to search for the NEXT
satellite signal. Continue repeating this procedure until the correct satellite is found. Once the correct
satellite has been found, allow the antenna to track for 4-6 minutes to update the satellite position
information.
2.4.1. Optimizing the polarization while on the desired satellite
This adjustment should be done while the boat is at the pier and antenna is tracking the desired satellite.
When the boat is travelling to a different
geographic area the polarization may need
to be re-optimized if performance appears
to be degrading.
Select the “Signal Strength” display of the
satellite receiver (refer to the satellite
receiver manual). While monitoring the
receivers’ signal strength, adjust
polarization up or down in one (or two)
degree increments, then observe the
receivers’ signal strength for 10-15
seconds to evaluate the change. If an
improvement is noted, continue small
adjustments in the same direction until the
highest signal strength is obtained. If the
adjustment causes a decrease, adjust
polarization in the opposite direction to
increase the signal strength. When the polarization of the antenna is optimum, tighten the set screws and

Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO Operation
2-5
re-install the radome top.
2.4.2. Setting polarization for a different satellite (changing satellites)
When changing from one satellite to another you may need to adjust the polarization of the LNB to be
able to acquire the satellite you want to switch to. This will only be required if the difference in
polarization angle of the two satellites is greater than ten degrees.
1 Assure that you have optimized the polarization for the satellite you are presently on using the
procedure in 2.4.1.
2 Compare the longitude of the satellite you are presently on to the longitude of the satellite you
will be switching to. Note the amount & direction of the difference in longitude position of the
two satellites. Adjust the polarization 10 degrees for each 10 degrees of longitude difference
between the two satellites. If the satellite you are switching to is further East from the present
satellite you will need to adjust polarization DOWN the appropriate number of degrees. If the
satellite you are switching to is West from the present satellite you will need to adjust
polarization UP the appropriate number of degrees. Examples:
Presently optimized on Astra 1 at 19.2E and want to switch to Hotbird at 13.0E.
Difference is less than 10 degrees, so no adjustment is necessary before searching for
the next satellite (step 4).
Presently optimized on Astra 1 at 19.2E and want to switch to Astra 2 at 28.2E.
Difference is about 10 degrees East. You need to rotate the LNB (POL DOWN) 10
degrees and then search for the next satellite (steps 3 & 4).
Presently optimized on Astra 1 at 19.2E and want to switch to Thor 1 at 0.8W. Difference
is about 20 degrees West. You need to rotate the LNB (POL UP) 20 degrees and then
search for the next satellite (steps 3 & 4).
3 Adjust polarization UP/DOWN the amount determined in step 2.
4 Press NEXT to search for the next satellite. If the next satellite found is not the desired satellite,
press NEXT to continue searching. Repeat searching until the desired satellite is found. Allow
the antenna to track the satellite for about two minutes.
5 Optimize polarization while on the new satellite using the procedure in 2.3.1.
If you will be changing satellites periodically to view different programming, note the polarization for each
of the satellites you will be using. It may also be helpful to record the elevation of the satellites you will be
using. Setting the elevation and polarization before searching for the next satellite will help shorten the
search process. Elevation of the satellite(s) may be entered & saved using SETUP Mode.
2.4.3. Setting polarization when you have changed geographic areas
If the boat is travelling a great distance it is recommended that you optimize the polarization using the
procedure in 2.4.1 after each 10 degree latitude or longitude change. If you have changed latitude and
longitude by a significant geographic distance, while the antenna has been turned off, it may be
necessary to adjust the polarization to find the desired satellite.
If you are able to find (and identify) a satellite, optimize the polarization and follow the procedure in
section 2.4.2 to change from the satellite you are presently on to the one you desire to be using. If you
are not able to find any satellites, adjust polarization up or down 10 degrees and press NEXT to search
for a (next) satellite signal. Continue adjusting polarization and searching, until a satellite signal is found
and you can follow the procedure in section 2.4.2 to change from the satellite you are presently on to the
one you desire to be using.
If after all polarization settings have been tried and no satellite signal can be found, refer to the
Troubleshooting section of this manual.

Operation Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
2-6
2.5. Loss of satellite due to blockage or rain-fade
If tracking is lost due to blockage or rain fade, the antenna will search until a signal is found which is high
enough for the antenna to begin tracking. When the receiver interface is operating properly, the antenna will
automatically continue searching until it has acquired the desired satellite.
2.6. 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.
2.7. Radome Assembly Operation
When operating the system it is necessary that the radome top be properly installed 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 and wind gusts would disturb the antenna pointing.
There are no other operating instructions applicable to the radome assembly by itself.

Coastal 18 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 the
your antenna system and other equipment within your system configuration.
3.1. Satellite Basics
The Television Receive Only (TVRO) satellites are in orbit at an altitude of 22,753.2 Miles (36,600
kilometers) and 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).
3.1.1. Ku-Band Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz) Satellites
Your antenna can be used with any of the Ku-Band (10.95-12.75GHz or a portion of these frequencies)
satellites that provide a strong enough receive signal level. The Low Noise Block Converter (LNB)
installed on your antenna determines the exact frequency range you are currently able to receive. Other
frequency range LNBs are available for use with your antenna.
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.
3.1.2. Blockage
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 boat turns a mast or raised structure of your boat may become
positioned between the satellite and the dish. Blockage may also be caused a person standing near the
radome, tall mountains, buildings, bridges, cranes or other larger ships near your boat. Signal will be lost
when the boat is housed inside an enclosure that the signal cannot penetrate, like a paint shed or a berth
with a roof. Moving or rotating the boat to position the antenna where it has an unobstructed view to the
desired satellite will restore the antennas’ ability to receive the satellite signal.
3.1.3. Rain Fade
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.
3.1.4. Signal level
The level of the receive signal is dependant upon how powerful the transmission is and how wide the
signal beam 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. Your antenna
system must be geographically located in an area where the satellite signal level is high enough to
provide suitable reception. This limits the number of satellites that can be used and the geographic areas

Basic System Information Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
3-2
Figure 3-1 Satellite Signal Polarization
where the boat can travel where the signal level is expected to be strong enough to continue providing
uninterrupted reception. When travelling 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 (refer to the satellite footprint information in the Drawings
section of this manual).
3.1.5. Satellite Footprints
The focused beam(s) from the satellites are normally aimed at the major landmasses 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 may vary.
Also the signal strength is affected by weather.
3.1.6. Satellite Footprint Charts
A Satellite Footprint Chart is a drawing of signal level in a geographic region. You can refer to satellite
footprint charts (coverage maps) in World Satellite Almanacs or on the Internet (www.SatCoDX.com or
www.Lyngsat.com). Many satellites have their own web sites to provide programming and footprint
information. To use these footprint charts you will need to know the minimum EIRP signal level required
for your antenna (refer to the Specifications – Antenna section of this manual).
Contact your dealer for a footprint chart(s) of the satellite(s) you will be using with your model antenna.
These footprint charts show the locations where signal level is expected to be adequate for TV reception
with your model antenna.
Please note that while the coverage area information is believed to be correct, Sea Tel has no
control over actual satellite operation, footprint coverage, or programming. The coverage maps
are intended as a guide to reception and the actual coverage area and signal strength may vary.
Also, signal strength and reception within the footprint may be affected by weather.
3.1.7. Satellite polarization
Satellites may transmit their signals in one of two different polarization modes. Your antenna is designed
to operate with linear OR circular polarized satellite transmissions, but you must have the appropriate
LNB installed for the satellite that you want to receive.
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.
Your antenna is designed to automatically
adjust the polarization, even when you
have a circular LNB installed. When you
are operating with linear polarized satellite
transmissions the auto-polarization is
periodically adjusting the linear LNB “polarization” to optimize the alignment of the LNB to match the
angle of the signal from the satellite.
When you are on the same longitude as the satellite, its’ horizontal and vertical signals will be purely
aligned to your horizon. When the satellite is east or west of your longitude, the satellite signals will
appear to be rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise from pure 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 the satellite is

Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO Basic System Information
3-3
from you and how close you are to the Equator (refer to the polarization information in the Setup and the
Operation sections of this manual).
3.2. Antenna Basics
The following information is provided to explain some of the basic functions of the antenna:
3.2.1. Azimuth
The antenna can rotate a total of 680 degrees between two mechanical stops. Azimuth drive, provided
by the azimuth motor, is required during stabilization, searching, tracking and unwrap operations of the
antenna. When the boat 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.
Refer to figure 3-1. The azimuth would be 180 degrees true (relative to true north) if the satellite is at 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 top to see if the dish is aimed in the correct direction (towards the equator).
3.2.2. Elevation
The antenna can rotate up and down in elevation. Elevation drive, provided by the elevation motor, is
required during stabilization, searching and tracking 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.
Refer to figure 3-1. 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. Antenna polarization (Linear or Circular)
Your Coastal Series antenna can have a linear, or a circular, LNB installed.
When you are in an area where you want to receive linear polarized satellite signals, you will have to
install a linear LNB. When you have a Linear LNB installed, polarization adjustment is required when
initially setting up the system, when changing from one satellite to another and to compensate for the roll
and pitch motion of the boat when underway.
Polarization is automatically adjusted by the system when changing from one satellite to another,
periodically as the boat changes geographic locations by a significant amount of latitude and longitude
and to compensate for roll and pitch motions of the boat when underway.
The Polarization display will read 000 when the LNB is rotated full CW, 090 when the LNB rotation is
centered and 180 when the LNB is rotated full CCW (as viewed from the back of the dish).
When you are in an area where you want to receive circular polarized satellite signals, you will have to
install a circular LNB. When you have a circular LNB installed polarization adjustment is NOT required,
however, the auto-polarization function will operate as described above.

Basic System Information Coastal 18 Ku-Band TVRO
3-4
3.2.4. Stabilization
Your antenna is a “stabilized” antenna. Stabilization is the process of de-coupling the ships’ motion from
the antenna. Simply put, this allows the antenna to remain pointed at the satellite 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 Polarization (POL) are actively stabilized automatically by the
PCU as part of its normal operation.
3.2.5. Search Pattern
When the power is turned on, the system will calculate the Elevation & Polarization of the selected
satellite, drive the antenna to the calculated Elevation and adjust the Polarization to the calculated
polarization. It will then drive the antenna in a 400 degree Azimuth sweep at the calculated Elevation.
The Elevation will be increased and decreased in 4 degree increments after each Azimuth sweep until the
selected satellite is found and tracking begins or the system has completed Azimuth sweeps through
several Elevations. If the selected satellite is NOT found, the system will re-target and repeat the search.
Once the selected satellite is found tracking begins.
If you want to change satellites, press the NEXT key until the desired satellite is displayed. The system
will calculate the Elevation, Relative Azimuth and Polarization of the selected satellite and drive the dish
directly to the Azimuth and Elevation, and adjust the Polarization, for the new satellite. The new satellite
should be acquired and tracking begins. If the satellite is not found a search will begin, as described
above.
3.2.6. Satellite Identification Receiver
The Satellite Identification Receiver (Tracking Receiver) located in the Pedestal Control Unit (PCU) is
used to acquire, identify and track a specific satellite. To do this the receiver is set-up to a specific
Frequency, Baud rate, FEC rate and a unique Network ID hexadecimal code (NID) setting for each
saved satellite.
During search, if a signal is found, this receiver compares the programmed settings to the present
satellite signal values being received. The system will track the satellite while the comparison is being
done, If they do NOT match, the search pattern will be continued. If they DO match, Tracking will begin.
Up to six different satellites may be saved for use.
The system should only be set-up for satellites that are going to be used so that you don’t have to
go through so many choices when switching satellites. Unused satellite setups should be left
blank to skip over those choices.
3.2.7. Tracking
The antenna actively optimizes the pointing of the dish for maximum signal reception using a receiver
which is built into the Pedestal Control Unit (PCU). This process is called tracking and is accomplished
by making small trial movements of the dish while monitoring the level of the received signal. Evaluation
of this information is used to continuously make minor pointing corrections to keep the signal level
“peaked” as part of normal operation.
3.2.8. Unwrap
Mechanical stops limit the azimuth rotation to 680 degrees. When the azimuth rotation is within 5
degrees of either mechanical stop, the antenna will be driven 360 degrees away from that stop. This
“unwinds” the cables that are routed through the pedestal assembly and repositions the antenna to a mid-
point between the two stops. By rotating 360 degrees the azimuth position of the antenna will have
returned to the previous position and will resume normal satellite tracking. Unwrap will occur when the
boat continues turning far enough in one direction for it to be required. It is normal for the television
picture to “freeze frame” until the antenna completes unwrap and resumes tracking the satellite.