® FFT spectrum display unit SDU5600 PROFESSIONAL SPECTRUM DISPLAY UNIT FOR USE WITH A COMPANION RADIO OPERATING MANUAL 1
Index Index Safety notices ................................................................................................. 5 SDU5600 brief circuit description .................................................................... 6 LCD resolution ................................................................................................ 6 Block diagram ................................................................................................. 7 Introduction ..............................
Index 5.5 Marker ...................................................................................................... 28 5.6 Calculation facility ..................................................................................... 30 5.7 Waterfall display facility ............................................................................. 31 5.8 On/off of the display information ............................................................... 32 5.9 Beep alert ...................................
Safety notices Every effort has been made to make this manual correct and up to date. Due to continuous development of the product and by error or omission, anomalies may be found and this is acknowledged. © This manual is protected by copyright AOR Ltd 2003. No information contained in this manual may be copied or transferred by any means without the prior written consent of AOR Ltd. AOR and the ‘AOR logo’ are trade marks of AOR Ltd. All other trade marks and names are acknowledged.
Circuit description SDU5600 Brief circuit description The RF signal is fed by BNC socket into the SDU at a selected frequency of either 10.7MHz or 45.05MHz depending on the radio IF frequency being used. This signal is split into two different signal paths depending upon which input frequency is selected. Both paths are buffered and have Band Pass Filters with a bandwidth of +/-5kHz to eliminate unwanted signals outside of this range.
Block diagram 7
Introduction & preparation Introduction Thank you for purchasing the SDU5600 FFT spectrum display unit. AOR was the first company in the world to market a colour spectrum display unit (SDU5000) for professionals and the top-end of hobbyist listeners.
Section 1, 1-1 1 Controls and Descriptions Control and display of the SDU5600 is via the front panel with the rear panel providing connections for the companion receiver, power and computer. 1-1 Front panel LCD: The large high resolution 5 inch colour TFT display provides all operational information and spectrum display. The background is black with green graticule and white lettering for critical information.
Section 1-2 1-2 Rear panel RF Input socket: The IF output (10.7 MHz / 45.05 MHz) from a suitable receiver such as the AR5000A should be connected to this BNC input socket using a 50 OHM patch lead constructed of quality coaxial cable such as RG58/U, UR43, UR76 etc. A suitable BNC-BNC lead is supplied. PC I/F socket (male): A controlling computer may be connected to this 9-pin D-type male socket.
Section 2, 2-1, 2-2 2 Connection 2-1 Connection with the power supply Where possible, use the supplied AC/DC power unit. Make sure the main switch of the SDU5600 is in the OFF position before connecting the power supply. 2-2 Connection with the receiver This hand book is compiled mainly referring to the AR5000A series receiver as the principal companion receiver. Any reference to other types of receiver will be made separately when and where necessary.
Section 3, 3-1, 3-2 3 Preparations 3-1 Configuration of the receiver The SDU5600 is primarily designed to operate with the receiver at 9600bps. The companion receiver’s baud rate has to be configured to the same rate.
Section 4, 4-1 4 Basics This section describes the front panel controls, detail of LCD display and introduces the method of operation employed by the SDU5600 prior to further configurations and monitoring operations. It is advisable that you read this section carefully before proceeding to explore the full capability of the SDU5600. 4-1 Control Power switch: Press once to latch the switch in, switching on the SDU5600. To switch off the SDU5600, press the switch a second time, the switch latches outward.
Section 4-2 4-2 Display This section explains what you can expect to see on the SDU5600’s monitor screen using Spectrum Mode as a typical example. The screen will appear differently when switched to other operating modes. (1) Centre frequency - CF: The centre frequency reading is shown in MHz, providing a minimum resolution of up to 10Hz. (2) Frequency span - SPAN: The centre frequency appears in the middle of the display with frequency extending to the left and right.
Section 4-2, 4-3 (6) Step frequency - STEP: This value is displayed in kHz and indicates how wide one step represents out of the 320 steps across the X-axis. The example of page 14 shows 31.250kHz as one step which is obtained by taking the SPAN of 10MHz and dividing it by 320, the result is 31.250kHz since the X-axis is 10MHz wide in this example. In the Step resolution mode, it is possible to specify the frequency bandwidth to be ‘one step’ rather than an often seemingly arbitrary value.
Section 4-4, 4-5, 4-6 4-4 Clear (CLR) key The clear key (CLR) acts as back-space key to cancel each proceeding key entry of numeric information (1 to 0, decimal-point) during entry of the start /end frequency, entry of input sensitivity / trigger level or the marker and numeration in the calculation mode. Pressing the clear key with no proceeding key entry will abort the sequence. Pressing A.CLR (FUNC + CLR) will clear all proceeding numeric entries and end the sequence.
Section 5, 5-1-1 5. Configuration of the SDU5600 The SDU5600 is designed to configure a wide range of parameters for ease of operation. 5-1-1 Configuration (CONF) This section explains how to configure the operating environment under which the SDU5600 is used. Selection of the receiver, Plotting pattern and Frequency direction are to be configured. Press the FUNC key followed by the 4 (CONF) key to assign the soft keys as the following diagram. For selection of the receiver press the RX key.
Section 5-1-2 5-1-2 Applicable receivers This is a list of compatible receivers which are selectable from the SDU5600 companion receiver menu: Receiver Selection menu Applicable receiver Remarks AR5000 AR5000/+3 AR5000A/+3 Use of EXT-IF port AR3000A AR3000A 10.
Section 5-2-1 5-2-1 Configuration of the Receiver This section explains how to configure the companion receiver itself. Note that this section will not apply when Other(10M) or Other(45M) has been selected in the receiver selection menu, or communication has not been correctly established between the SDU5600 and companion receiver.
Section 5-2-2 5-2-2 Selecting the receive frequency This section will explain how to select and monitor the receive frequency of the companion receiver. It must be noted that the SDU5600 employs the following principle: Spectrum / Step Resolution - Receive Frequency (RX.
Section 5-2-2 Channel scope mode The previous page explains the receive frequency operation in the spectrum analyser mode and step resolution mode. The channel scope mode differs since it does not use the centre frequency (CF), instead the receive frequency equals the marker position: Channel Scope Mode - Receive Frequency = Receive Marker position In addition, by use of the marker receive key MK.
Section 5-3 5-3 Setup of the monitoring mode The SDU5600 is designed to provide 3 different monitoring modes such as the spectrum analyser mode, step resolution mode and channel scope mode. Choosing the most appropriate monitoring mode for your specific requirements is important to maximise performance and efficiency of the SDU5600.
Section 5-4, 5-4-1 5-4 Basic setup for each monitoring mode This section will explain how each monitoring mode has to be set up. 5-4-1 Spectrum analyser mode Example of the screen is shown here, the parameters are as follows: Centre frequency (CF) Frequency span Start frequency End frequency Marker frequency Operating step = 122.5MHz = 10.0MHz = 117.5MHz = 127.5MHz = 123.5MHz = 31.25kHz Centre frequency (CF) Press the CENTRE FREQ.
Section 5-4-2 5-4-2 Step resolution mode Example of the screen is shown here, the parameters are: Centre frequency (CF) = 122.5MHz Display step = 25kHz Frequency span = 8MHz Start frequency = 118.5MHz End frequency = 126.5MHz Marker frequency = 124.35MHz In the step resolution mode, the frequency span is determined by the entry of display step size, which is OPPOSITE to the spectrum analyser mode where the display step size is determined by the entry of frequency span.
Section 5-4-3 5-4-3 Channel scope mode Example of the screen is shown here, the parameters are: Start frequency Step frequency End frequency Frequency span Marker frequency Receive marker = 118.0MHz = 25kHz = 122.00MHz = 4MHz = 121.8MHz = 119.7MHz Unlike the spectrum analyser mode or step resolution mode there is no centre frequency (CF) in the channel scope mode. Start frequency (Ch.START) Press the Ch.START key to make the start frequency read-out display appear in reverse contrast.
Section 5-4-4 5-4-4 Common features shared by different monitoring modes Input sensitivity (AMPLITUDE) This feature refers to the setup of the input sensitivity level of the SDU5600 which is adjusted by the internal amplifier of the SDU5600. There are 4 different levels of input sensitivity between 0dBm and -30dBm in 10dB steps. Press the AMPLITUDE special key to make the reference level display appear in reverse contrast. Enter the required sensitivity level via the ten-keys or main dial, followed by ENT.
Section 5-4-4 Resolution band width (RBW) The SDU5600 provides four selectable RBW bandwidths which are 4kHz, 32kHz, 64kHz and 128kHz. Press the RBW key to make the RBW display appear in reverse contrast. Rotate the main dial to select the desired value followed by MHz or kHz to complete the selection sequence. The two plots here show the results from monitoring the same signal (80MHz WFM) but using 4kHz and 128kHz RBW bandwidths respectively.
Section 5-5 5-5 Marker The SDU5600 has a marker facility. The marker is often used to obtain the reading of the frequency of interest. In addition to the instantaneous reading, it provides the peak detection and continuous peak detection. Press FUNC + MK.F to place the SDU5600 in to marker mode operation. Instantaneous reading Marker Peak detection Peak Continuous peak detection C-Peak Instantaneous reading (Marker) This feature is useful for many applications.
Section 5-5 Continuous peak detection (C-Peak) This facility is designed to continue the peak signal detection process one sweep after another. Press the C-Peak key to activate the facility. There is no trigger level setup in the process. To return to the instantaneous reading either from the peak detection mode or continuous peak detection mode press the CLR key... depending on the operating configurations a multiple press of CLR may be required. Marker receiver (MK.
Section 5-6 5-6 Calculation facility Maximum value hold (MAX) Press the FUNC +7 keys to activate this facility, the legend MAX will be displayed on the graticule section of the LCD. Press the CLR key to exit from max hold. Without the MAX feature being used, each new sweep across the frequency spread will renew the signal activities over and over. However, with the MAX feature in use each sweep will be retained as data is built-up until the process ends.
Section 5-7 5-7 Waterfall display facility The SDU5600 is equipped with a waterfall facility which can display the variation of signal strengths in conjunction with the time lapsed (as sweeps progress). Sixteen different colours are employed dependant on signal strength, in the shape of a waterfall. Press the FUNC + to start the waterfall display. The bottom half of the screen will be allocated to the waterfall display and will build-up with time.
Section 5-8, 5-9, 5-10 5-8 On/off of the displayed information The companion receiver parameters are usually displayed on the left side of the LCD graticule. The key sequence FUNC + 5 (DISP) will toggle the display of the companion receiver’s parameter on / off. When the calculation mode is in use, the calculation data will be turned on or off by the same key-in sequence. By effective use of this facility, you can view the signal activities easier on the much less cluttered display area.
Section 6, 6-1 6. Operating the SDU5600 This section will provide examples of operating the SDU5600 using the AR5000A+3 as companion receiver. Refer to pages 10 to 12 of this manual for connection to the receiver. 6-1 Operate the SDU5600 with the AR5000A+3. Turn the SDU5600 on, which is followed by the opening message to confirm for readiness.
Section 6-2 6-2 Monitor the VHF FM band in the spectrum analyser mode Continue to operate the SDU5600 from section 6-1 where the SDU5600 / AR5000A+3 has been set in the spectrum monitoring mode. The example to the right is the actual result which was obtained after monitoring the signal spectrum at the AOR headquarters in Tokyo. It indicates the input signal being saturated, resulting in some weak ghost signals appearing at regular intervals close to the floor level of the spectrum trace.
Section 6-3 6-3 Monitor the FM broadcast band in the step resolution mode The following information explains how to change the monitoring mode from the default of spectrum analyser mode to the step resolution mode. Press the FUNC + 2 (STEP), the SDU5600 will shift to Step Resolution mode with the legend StepReso. appearing on the LCD. The display step will be unchanged at this stage. You may wish to change the display step to a 25kHz in order to make the task of monitoring easier.
Section 6-4 6-4 Monitor the VHF air band in the channel scope mode. The VHF airband is allocated over the wide frequency band, It is therefore impossible to display the entire VHF airband on the SDU5600 at once. The channel scope mode however provides a very convenient method of monitoring the channelised frequency band through the use of both the marker and receive marker. Using this method, you can split the airband into small sections for quick inspection.
Section 6-5 6-5 Suitable applications of each monitoring mode A summary of the three monitoring modes and suitable applications is given here: Spectrum analyser mode This mode is the DEFAULT and most common monitoring mode among the three. It is suited to the monitoring of permanent or intermittent signals or noise. The CF (centre frequency) and SPAN (visible bandwidth) are the main criteria to be specified.
Section 7 7. Useful Information The SDU5600 has been designed to operate with a wide-band companion receiver such as the AR5000A. Therefore, there are some differences in operating characteristics with the unit when compared with the spectrum analysers which are designed for more general testing / measuring applications. It is advisable that you take into account the following information while making yourself familiar with the SDU5600.
Section 8, 8-1, 8-2 8. SDU5600 Command List The SDU5600 can be operated via PC using the RS232 port. 8-1 Communication parameter and connecting lead The SDU5600 and a PC should be connected using a straight cable between the [PC I/F] socket and the serial port of the PC. The SDU5600 port is MALE, so the PC lead must have a female connector or a gender changer will have to be employed.
Section 8-3, 8-4 8-3 Basic format of the command Each command to be sent to the SDU5600 consists of 4 letters (upper case) in ASCII code with appropriate parameters followed by .
Section 8-4 Spectrum analysis Command : WSCF Function : SET CENTER FREQUENCY Command category: WRITE Parameter : Min- Max (in MHz) Example : WSCF79.5 Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: Frequency entry for out of receive range will be respond by ?, and the command will be ignored. Command : RSCF Function : READ CENTER FREQUENCY Command category: READ Parameter : N/A Example : RSC Response: SCF79.5 Remarks: Frequency is displayed in MHz.
Section 8-4 Command : WSTL Function : SET PEAK TRIGGER LEVEL Command category: WRITE Parameter : -90 ~ 0 Example : WSTL-80 Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: Data entry for out of range will be respond by ?, and the command will be ignored. Command : RSTL Function : READ PEAK TRIGGER LEVEL Command category: READ Parameter : N/A Example : RSTL Response: STL-80 Remarks: Read the trigger level in the Peak mode.
Section 8-4 Visual command Command : WVPM Function : SET PLOT MODE Command category: WRITE Parameter : 1 ~ 2 Example : WVPM2 Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: Parameter: 1 = PAINT, 2 = OUTLINE Data entry for out of range will be respond by ?, and the command will be ignored.
Section 8-4 User interface Command : WUMD Function : SET RECEIVER MODE Command category: WRITE Parameter : 1 ~ 15 Example : WUMD1 Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: Parameter: 1 = WFM, 2 = NFM, 3 = SFM, 4 = WAM, 5 = AM, 6 = NAM, 7 = LSB, 8 = USB, 9 = CW, 10 = AUTO, 11 = AMW, 12 = FM, 13 = FMN, 14 AMN, 15 = CWN Data entry for out of range or any mode that is not supported by the associated receiver will respond by ?, and the command will be ignored Command :
Section 8-4 Command : WUMC Function : SET MARKER FREQ. AS RECEIVE FREQ. Command category: WRITE Parameter : N/A Example : WUMC Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: This command is not available for the Other (10M) or Other (45M) receiver.
Section 8-4 Command : WUBE Function : BEEP SETTING Command category: WRITE Parameter : 1 ~ 7 Example : WUBE6 Response: if correct: if incorrect: ? Remarks: Parameter: 1 = Emit “click” when key is pressed. 2 = Emit “click” when key entry is ignored. 3 = Beep when correct entry is made. 4 = Beep when entry data is out of range. 5 = Beep when key entry is cancelled. 6 = Beep when On/Off parameter is set to ON. 7 = Beep when On/Off parameter is set to OFF.
Section 8-4 Produces a ‘pair’ of data values comprising of frequency and its level at MHz order which is defined (sandwiched) by / /. In reality, there may be a discrepancy of +/- 1dBm between the value of the marker on the LCD and the level of the same marker which is calculated by this command. Command : RICD Function : CURSOR DOWNLOAD Command category: READ Parameter : N/A Example : RICD Response: see remarks Remarks: Read output level of the cursor frequency.
Section 8-4 Notes for programmers Generally speaking the screen dump is preferable if graphic info (data) is wanted. On the other hand the array of frequency / level can better serve if numerical data is demanded. The array of frequency / level is faster in transfer time from the SDU5600 to the PC. The SDU5600 accepts commands either from the PC or from its own front panel on a first come first serve basis.
9 Specification Input frequency 10.7MHz / 45.05MHz selectable Maximum frequency span 10MHz RBW 4kHz, 32kHz, 64kHz, 128kHz Dynamic range 60dB Input impedance 50 OHM via BNC socket Display screen 5 inch (127mm) TFT Colour LCD Communications RS232C (2 ports) Power requirement 12DC @ 0.9A nominal, negative ground Operation 26 keys & main dial Operating temperature 0 to 50 degrees Celsius Dimensions 220(W) x 120(H) x 195(D) mm Weight 2.3kg Specifications subject to change without notice.
Notes: 50
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