Satellite Television A Guide to TracVision S2 owner’s manual • KVH TracVision S2 • Installation Instructions User’s Guide Technical Manual ® •
TracVision S2 Owner’s Manual Addendum (ECO #6119) The following information applies to Revision A of the TracVision S2 Owner’s Manual (KVH Part Number 54-0196). A protective cover has been added to the switchplate to guard against damaging electrostatic discharges (ESD), which may occur during installation. 2.
Appendix C Switchplate Template 2" 2.5" 54-0196 Addendum to Rev.
A Guide to TracVision S2 – ADDENDUM TracVision S2 Owner’s Manual Addendum (ECO #6040) The following information applies to Revision A of the TracVision S2 Owner’s Manual (KVH Part Number 54-0196). 2 Installation Kitpack Contents Two plugs have been added to the kitpack for sealing the predrilled holes in the antenna baseplate. Part Qty. KVH Part No.
Congratulations! You have selected one of the most advanced land-mobile satellite tracking systems available today. KVH® Industries’ TracVision® S2 is designed for use with DIRECTV®, DISH Network™, and ExpressVu. This manual provides detailed instructions on the proper installation, use, and maintenance of your TracVision S2 system.
TracVision® and KVH® are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc. DIRECTV® is an official trademark of DIRECTV, a unit of GM Hughes Electronics Corporation. DISH Network™ is an official trademark of EchoStar Communications Corporation. ExpressVu is a property of Bell ExpressVu, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Satellite Services.
Table of Contents 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1 1.1 Digital Satellite Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1 1.2 TracVision S2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1 1.2.1 TracVision S2 Components ....................................................1-2 1.2.2 Integrated Receiver/Decoder (IRD) ........................................1-2 1.3 Materials Provided with TracVision S2 . . . . . .
3.2.1 Using the IRD for Satellite Selection ......................................3-3 3.2.2 Using the Switchplate for Satellite Selection ..........................3-3 3.2.2.1 The Status Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3 3.3 Turning Off the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 3.4 Watching Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.4.2 Antenna LNB Replacement ....................................................5-6 5.5 Preparation for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-8 Appendix A System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1 Appendix B Comprehensive TracVision S2 System Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1 Appendix C Switchplate Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-1 Appendix D EchoStar IRD Activation Procedure . . . . . . . . . .
Figure 2-10 TracVision S2 Shipping Restraints (Storage Position) . . . .2-7 Figure 2-11 Switchplate Cutout Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 Figure 2-12 Antenna Baseplate Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 Figure 2-13 Switchplate Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9 Figure 2-14 Installing Three or Four IRDs Using an Active Multiswitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 5-1 Field Replaceable Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2 Table A-1 TracVision S2 System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1 Table F-1 System Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F-1 Table F-2 Manual Positioning Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F-2 Table F-3 Operational Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F-3 Table F-4 Target and Signal Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction 1 Introduction 1.1 Digital Satellite Television DIRECTV®, DISH Network™, and ExpressVu systems transmit digital audio and video data from land-based transmitters to a satellite “parked” above the equator. Each satellite relays the signals in spot beams covering the continental United States and contiguous waters. TracVision S2 automatically identifies, locks onto, and receives signals from the appropriate satellite when your vehicle is stationary. 1.
A Guide to TracVision S2 1.2.1 TracVision S2 Components The antenna unit includes the antenna positioning mechanism, signal front end, power supply and control elements. These elements include antenna drive controls and mechanisms, the cable wrap subassembly, power conditioning and regulating circuits, and the RF detector. The antenna is a parabolic dish mounting a dual-output low noise block (LNB) converter with built-in preamplifier.
Introduction 1.3.1 Additional Materials Required for TracVision S2 Use To make full use of your new TracVision S2 and receive satellite TV, you will need to provide/purchase the following: • Television • Appropriate IRD for your selected satellite TV service 54-0196 Rev. A You can purchase and activate an IRD directly from KVH! Call KVH at 1-888-584-4163 for details.
Installation 2 Installation TracVision S2 is designed for simple installation and setup. Just follow these easy steps: Step Refer to Section... 1. Choose the antenna location 2.1 2. Mount the antenna unit 2.2 3. Connect the system components 2.3 4. Activate the IRD 2.4 5. Check out the system 2.5 Tools and Materials Required • Electric drill • 3 • #2 Phillips and #0 flat tip screwdrivers • RG-6 or RG-11 (75 ohms) RF cable (if installing two RF cables - refer to Section 2.3.
A Guide to TracVision S2 Kitpack Contents Table 2-2 lists the materials provided in the TracVision S2 kitpack. Table 2-2 Kitpack Contents Part KVH Part No. Switchplate Assembly 1 02-1236-01 Tie-wraps 5 22-0013 RJ11 Handset Cable 1 32-0724-25 Clam Shell Ventilator 1 19-0230 #6 x 3⁄4" Thread-forming Screws 5 14-0298-12 ⁄4"-20 x 5⁄8" hex screws 4 14-0250-10 ⁄4" flat washers 4 14-0251 1 1 2-2 Qty.
Installation 2.1 Choosing the Best Location • Since the TracVision antenna requires a clear view of the southern sky to receive satellite signals, the ideal antenna site has an unobstructed view of the horizon/satellite all around. • Keep the antenna clear of any obstructions on the roof (e.g., air conditioners). The antenna requires a 15º to 75º look angle to receive satellite signals.
A Guide to TracVision S2 2.2 Mounting the Antenna Unit 1. Make sure that you have chosen a suitable mounting location based upon the guidelines in Section 2.1, “Choosing the Best Location.” Always lift the antenna unit by the gray baseplate, never by the radome! Figure 2-3 Proper Orientation of the Antenna Unit 2. Remove the antenna unit from its shipping carton. 3.
Installation 8. Reposition the antenna, lining up the mounting plate holes with the holes in the roof. Attach the mounting plates to the roof using 3⁄16"-diameter rivets (or appropriate fasteners). Seal all rivet heads and edges with silicone. 9. Remove and save the 8 pan head screws and flat washers that secure the radome to the baseplate. Carefully lift the radome straight up until clear of the antenna assembly and set aside.
A Guide to TracVision S2 11. Cut the tie-wraps holding the antenna unit to the forward shipping restraint (see Figure 2-6). Figure 2-6 Forward Shipping Restraint (Arranged for Shipping) 2 tie-wraps used to secure LNB arm Shipping Restraint Nuts and Washers Shipping Restraint 12. Remove the nuts and washers securing the shipping restraints to the baseplate. The positions of all three shipping restraints are pictured in Figure 2-7.
Installation Figure 2-9 Rotating Plate Shipping Restraint Storage Rotating Plate Shipping Restraint (1 of 2) Installation Bolt and Washer Figure 2-10 TracVision S2 Shipping Restraints (Storage Position) Rotating Plate Shipping Restraint Forward Shipping Restraint Rotating Plate Shipping Restraint 14. Place the radome onto the baseplate (labels facing the sides of the vehicle) and secure in place using the 8 pan head screws and flat washers removed in Step 9. 15.
A Guide to TracVision S2 2.3 Connecting System Components The following sections provide instructions for properly wiring the antenna unit to the components inside the vehicle. Locating the Switchplate Before running cables, you need to determine the location for the TracVision S2 switchplate. 1. The switchplate should be installed in a dry, flat location within reach of the cables that will connect to the antenna unit. 2.
Installation Input Power (+12 Vdc) Figure 2-13 Switchplate Connectors Ground RJ11 Jack (Data Cable to IRD - Optional) Data/Power Connector Maintenance Port (DB9 Connector) Switchplate Mounting Hole (1 of 2) 2.3.1 Connecting the Antenna to the Switchplate 1. Connect one end of the antenna data/power cable to the antenna’s data/power connector and lock in place (see Figure 2-12). 2.
A Guide to TracVision S2 Installing Two IRDs and TVs To connect a second TV and IRD to the TracVision S2 system, you must connect a second RF cable to the antenna’s RF2 connector (see Figure 2-12). Route the other end of the RF cable down into the vehicle and connect it directly to the second IRD. Connecting Three or More IRDs and TVs To install three or more IRD/TV pairs, an active multiswitch (Channel Master model 6214IFD or equivalent) must be placed between the antenna unit and the IRDs.
Installation 4. Terminate all unused output connectors with 75 ohm DC blocks (Channel Master #7184, Radio Shack #15-1259 or equivalent). 2.3.3 Sealing the Cable Access Hole Once the RF and data/power cables are connected to the antenna, you need to seal and cover the cable access hole to protect against leakage. 1. Completely seal the cable access hole with silicone sealant or RTV. 2.
A Guide to TracVision S2 2.3.5 Connecting the Switchplate to Vehicle Power Before connecting the antenna unit to vehicle power, remove the appropriate vehicle fuse to prevent a short circuit. Replace the fuse after the connection to vehicle power is complete. The switchplate must be connected to a +12 Vdc, 2.5-3.5 amp power supply to operate. 1. Disconnect vehicle power by removing the appropriate vehicle fuse. 2. Run a cable from vehicle’s power (11-16 Vdc) out through the panel cutout. 3.
Installation 2.4 Activating the IRD KVH makes it easy to activate your IRD. Just call KVH at 1-888-584-4163 and ask for IRD Activation (Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. EST). For other options, please refer to the user manual that accompanied your IRD. Note that EchoStar IRDs that have not been activated within several months of manufacture require additional steps to complete the process. Refer to Appendix D for complete details. 2.
A Guide to TracVision S2 Table 2-3 TracVision S2 Operational Messages The DISH Network and some newer IRDs (e.g., the Sony A50) give priority to internal IRD messages rather than on-screen messages. KVH recommends that the maintenance port be used to read installation-related messages on a PC (see Section 2.5.2, “Checking Out the System Without an IRD Data Connection”).
Installation 2.5.2 Checking Out the System Without an IRD Data Connection To ensure that the system is configured and operating properly, you will need to check the data provided in the system’s startup routine. To do so, you need to connect a PC to the antenna baseplate’s maintenance port. The diagnostics procedure requires terminal emulation software such as PROCOMM or Windows Terminal or Hyperterminal. Use the settings appropriate to your application. 1.
A Guide to TracVision S2 4. Press the switchplate’s POWER button to apply power to the TracVision S2 system and wait for the system to fully initialize. Data should be scrolling on the PC display to identify any system problems detected. If no data is seen, recheck your connections and the terminal software setup. 5. After completing the review of the startup and operational routines, shut down the system. 2.
Using Your TracVision S2 3 Using Your TracVision S2 For TracVision S2 to receive the satellite signals, the antenna must have a clear line of sight to the satellite. If you only receive intermittent signals or the antenna cannot find the satellite, check around your vehicle for any objects that could be blocking the signal, such as trees, buildings, etc.
A Guide to TracVision S2 Figure 3-2 Switchplate Front Panel Status Indicator Power Button Sat Select Button These features only active if the system is NOT connected to an IRD low-speed data port System Startup (Connected to an IRD Low-speed Data Port) If connected to an IRD Lowspeed Data Port: As part of the startup process, the TracVision S2 system will default to Channel 200, a program directory. This is the system’s means of verifying that it has identified and is tracking the correct satellite.
Using Your TracVision S2 3.2 Tracking the Correct Satellite If your system is connected to an IRD’s low-speed data port, follow the steps in Section 3.2.1, “Using the IRD for Satellite Selection.” If your system is not connected to an IRD’s low-speed data port, follow the steps in Section 3.2.2, “Using the Switchplate for Satellite Selection.” 3.2.
A Guide to TracVision S2 3.3 It is highly recomended that you turn off the TracVision S2 prior to moving the vehicle. TracVision S2 will not track a satellite while the vehicle is in motion. Turning Off the System To turn off the TracVision S2 system, simply press the switchplate’s POWER button (see Figure 3-2). 3.4 Watching Television Turn on the TracVision S2 after your vehicle is parked.
Troubleshooting 4 Troubleshooting The troubleshooting matrix shown in Table 4-1 identifies some trouble symptoms, their possible causes, and references to troubleshooting solutions. SYMPTOM PO SSI BLE CAU Blo wn SE fuse (AN DS or im Dew OLU pro or r TIO per ain N) w poo Sat i r i ng ling ellit ( S e si on d ecti gna on 4 ome Sat l blo .1.1 ellit ( S c ecti ) e co ked o v ( n Sec era Inco 4.1. g t i e 2 o rrec ) n 4. issu t or 1.3) e (S loos Typ e c tion eR e of F co 4.1.
A Guide to TracVision S2 4.1.1 Blown Fuse or Improper Wiring If the antenna unit is installed but entirely non-responsive, there are two key factors to check as part of the troubleshooting process: 1. Blown Fuse – The antenna unit is equipped with a fuse mounted on its CPU Board. If this fuse has blown or been broken, the antenna unit will not operate. Refer to Section 5.4.1, “PCB Removal and Replacement,” for details on the fuse location and how to access the CPU Board. 2.
Troubleshooting 4.1.4 Satellite Coverage Issue TracVision S2 will provide outstanding reception throughout the entire coverage area for your satellite television service of choice. However, signal quality can be degraded as you approach the fringe coverage areas. Refer to your satellite television service manual to check the viable coverage area. 4.1.5 Incorrect or Loose RF Connectors For your convenience, KVH provides links to several web sites that offer satellite coverage information.
A Guide to TracVision S2 4.2.2 AC Power Fluctuating The long-term fix, typically done at original system installation, is to install an Uninterruptible Power Supply (like those available for use with computer systems) on the IRD. Be sure to specify a UPS with adequate available current for all devices attached to it. (An IRD draws approximately 200 watts.
Troubleshooting 4.2.5 Failed IRD Status Check As detailed in Appendix E, TracVision S2 completes a detailed startup routine whenever it is turned on. One of the first checks is the IRD status test. As noted in the typical startup cycles, the expectation is that the IRD and its communications link to TracVision S2 will pass this test. There are, however, two alternate results, each indicating a slightly different problem.
A Guide to TracVision S2 4.3 Antenna LNB Faults Section 5, “Maintenance,” provides detailed instructions for authorized service personnel who may be required to replace the TracVision S2 LNB. 4.4 Most terminal emulation programs have a parameter for local character echo. Select this parameter to see what is being typed without any system delay.
Troubleshooting 3. Open the terminal emulation software and establish the following settings: • 9600 baud • no parity • 8 data bits • 1 start bit • 1 stop bit • no flow control 4. Apply power to the TracVision S2 system and allow the system to complete full initialization. Data should be scrolling on the PC display to identify any system problems detected. If no data is seen, recheck your connections and the terminal software setup. 4.
Maintenance 5 Maintenance The following sections provide details on preventive maintenance and field replaceable units and parts for the TracVision S2 antenna unit. 5.1 Warranty/Service Information For information on KVH warranty, repair, and liability policies, please refer to the complete warranty statement provided at the conclusion of this manual. If you have any questions, please call your local authorized dealer or installer, or contact KVH directly. 5.
A Guide to TracVision S2 5.3 The serial number of your TracVision S2 will be required during any troubleshooting or service calls. You will find the serial number on the inside front cover of this manual. Replaceable Parts TracVision S2 has been designed with durability and low maintenance in mind. If you experience an operating problem or otherwise require technical assistance, contact your local authorized TracVision S2 dealer/installer first.
Maintenance 5.4 Field Replaceable Unit Procedures The following subsections provide detailed procedures for repairing or swapping out field replaceable units. The procedures refer to labeled items presented on the following diagrams. Pan Head Screws Always lift the antenna unit by the gray baseplate, never by the radome or any portion of the antenna assembly! Figure 5-1 Antenna, PCB, and Rotating Plate PCB Cover 3.
A Guide to TracVision S2 Figure 5-3 Antenna Assembly Wing Screw and Washer Reflector Bracket LNB Clamp LNB 5.4.1 PCB Removal and Replacement Estimated Time to Repair: 1⁄2 hour The microprocessor PCB assembly is protected by a cover fastened to the rotating plate – Fig. 5-1. The cover must be removed to gain access to the main power fuse and the PCB assembly. 1. Using needle-nose pliers, remove the E-ring from one end of the connecting rod – Fig. 5-2.
Maintenance Figure 5-4 Removing the PCB Cover Elevation Axis Motor Shaft Linear Actuator PCB Cover TracVision S2 is equipped with a 5x20 mm, 3.15-amp, 250 volt fastblow fuse, which is mounted on the PCB. To access and replace the fuse, remove the PCB cover. 4. Remove 6 pan head screws from the PCB cover flanges. 5. Remove the PCB cover. To get the necessary clearance, rotate the linear actuator up 90º while lifting the PCB cover – Fig. 5-4. 6. Remove cable connectors from PCB.
A Guide to TracVision S2 9. Carry out the LNB calibration procedure (Section 5.4.2). 5.4.2 Antenna LNB Replacement Estimated Time to Repair: 1⁄2 hour The LNB receives preamplifier operating power from the IRD via the PCB – Fig. 5-1 and 5-3. Be certain that the IRD is disconnected from its power source before removing or reconnecting the LNB. 1. Disconnect both RF coaxial connectors at the LNB. 2. Remove the wing screw and washer from the LNB clamp – Fig. 5-3. 3. Remove the top of the LNB clamp – Fig. 5-3.
Maintenance 7. The system must respond with the following message: CALLNB: PASS. If the system displays CALLNB: FAIL, return to Step 3 and retry the procedure, making sure to achieve the highest possible RF signal peak. 8. Record the Cold Sky Average and the RFGAIN value reported in Step 7. 9. Type ZAP. The system will re-initialize using the new RFGAIN and RFOFFSET scale factors displayed following Step 7. 10. Wait for the system to perform the background noise calculation.
A Guide to TracVision S2 5.5 Preparation for Shipment If you need to repack the antenna unit for shipment, the shipping restraints removed or stowed during installation must be replaced. Follow these steps to reinstall the restraints. When rotating the azimuth mechanism by hand, go slowly! Hitting the mechanical stops with excessive force will damage the azimuth limit switch. 1. Rotate the antenna unit so that the LNB is facing away from the baseplate connectors. 2.
System Specifications Appendix A System Specifications Physical Characteristics Power 11-16 volts DC @ 2.5 amps nominal, 3.5 amps peak Dimensions/Weight 32" wide x 14.8" high, 33 lbs LNB Dual Output Maintenance Port 9600 bps, 8,N,1,EIA, RS232 Table A-1 TracVision S2 System Specifications Pointing System Elevation Range 15º to 75º Azimuth Range 720º Position Repeatability 0.
Comprehensive TracVision S2 System Wiring Diagram Appendix B Comprehensive TracVision S2 System Wiring Diagram The wiring diagram is presented on the following page. 54-0196 Rev.
Switchplate Template Appendix C Switchplate Template 1.85" 2.35" 54-0196 Rev.
EchoStar IRD Activation Procedure Appendix D EchoStar IRD Activation Procedure If you have purchased a DISH Network system, there is a chance that your EchoStar IRD will fail to acquire the satellite when you first activate it. This has been known to happen in IRDs that have not been activated within several months of their manufacture.
A Guide to TracVision S2 10. Type in the elevation that you obtained in Step 6. - Type EL,xxx (e.g., Elevation of 30.2° = EL,302) 11. Using a compass, take a bearing on an object that is approximately on the azimuth obtained in Step 6. 12. Type in an azimuth that points the antenna in the direction of the object selected in Step 11. - Type AZ,xxxx (e.g.
Startup Data Sequences Appendix E Startup Data Sequences The data on the following pages presents the startup data sequences registered by the TracVision S2. The first section shows the sequences registered by a system that is connected to an IRD low-speed data port. The second section shows the sequences registered by a system that is NOT connected to an IRD low-speed data port. Both sections show two routines.
A Guide to TracVision S2 +POS: 327.7 33.9 2717 Signal Peaked: AZ = 327.69, EL = +POS: 327.7 33.3 2751 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2741 33.40, RF = 2822 *** Entering Satellite Check *** +POS: 327.7 33.3 2756 Signal Detected = 82 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2727 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2748 Signal Detected = 81 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2731 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2713 Tracking DSS satellite at 101.5W +POS: 327.7 33.3 2665 IRD Signal Quality = 79 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2681 +POS: 327.7 33.3 2708 Saved Sat Pos: AZ = 327.70, EL = 33.
Startup Data Sequences E.2 System Not Connected to IRD Data Standard Startup Sequence ?PGM KVH TracVision S2 Rev X - Version X.
A Guide to TracVision S2 *** Entering Search Mode 1 *** -----------Searching for a different satellite Search1 decided to go to: AZ = 335.9, EL = +POS: 23.5 33.5 518 +POS: 135.5 33.5 890 +POS: 162.5 33.5 1105 33.5 *** Entering Search Mode 2 *** +POS: 150.5 33.4 1108 +POS: 33.4 80.1 +POS: 180.0 889 34.0 1092 *** Entering Search Mode 3 *** +POS: 180.0 34.3 873 +POS: 22.0 885 66.6 Satellite Found: AZ = 348.8, EL = +POS: 327.4 22.0 22.
Startup Data Sequences *** Tracking Satellite *** +POS: 360.0 22.5 1917 +POS: 360.0 22.5 1635 +POS: 360.0 22.5 1976 Switch held: wrong satellite--------------SAT SELECT switch pressed Exclude: No longer search AZ = 0.0, EL = 22.5 KVH TracVision S2 Rev X - Version X.
Maintenance Port Parser Commands Appendix F Maintenance Port Parser Commands TracVision S2 system parser commands are parsed when the system receives an ASCII carriage return (Hex 0D). An ASCII line feed (Hex 0A) is permitted but is ignored in any transmitted command. All system responses are terminated with an ASCII carriage return followed by a line feed and ending with either an acknowledge character (ASCII > (Hex 3E)) or a not-acknowledge character (ASCII ? (Hex 3F)).
A Guide to TracVision S2 F.2 Manual Positioning Commands To execute the following commands, first put the antenna unit in idle mode by typing HALT and pressing “ENTER.” Positioning commands may be entered after the antenna comes to rest.
Maintenance Port Parser Commands Azimuth CCW Step Function: commands a 0.1 deg CCW manual step in azimuth angle Command: 4 Argument: none Response: echoes the command Elevation UP Step Function: commands a 0.1 deg UP manual step in elevation angle Command: 8 Argument: none Response: echoes the command Elevation DOWN Step Function: commands a 0.1 deg DOWN manual step in elevation angle Command: 2 Argument: none Response: echoes the command F.
A Guide to TracVision S2 F.
KVH Industries Limited Warranty TracVision S2 Limited Warranty on Hardware KVH Industries, Inc. warrants the KVH product purchased against defects in materials for a period of TWO (2) years and against factory labor costs for a period of ONE (1) year from the date of original retail purchase by the original purchaser.
KVH Industries, Inc. 50 Enterprise Center • Middletown, RI 02842 • U.S.A. Phone: +1 401 847-3327 • Fax: +1 401 849-0045 • E-mail: info@kvh.com • Internet: www.kvh.com KVH® and TracVision® are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc. TVS2_OM_Cover_10.
