Research Concepts RC4000 - Manual (Page 77)

RC4000 Antenna Controller Chapter 3 Software
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3.2.2.10 VSAT Mode
INTRODUCTION This section details operations of the RC4000’s “VSAT” mode.
VSAT mode is intended to be used when the following conditions exist:
1) the mobile satellite terminal is to be run by operators with limited or no satellite communication
training or experience
2) the same satellite and the same polarization orientation are to be used
3) the RC4000 is equipped with a GPS receiver and Fluxgate compass to allow automatic calculation of
the satellite pointing solution
VSAT mode limits the RC4000 functions that the operator may perform to LOCATE and STOW. To
perform other functions or to change operating parameters, expert access permission must be
established and the RC4000 must be taken out of VSAT mode.
NOTE: VSAT “mode” refers to the overall functioning of the RC4000. VSAT is not a mode in the same
sense as MANUAL, LOCATE, TRACK, etc. are modes.
PRIOR TO ENTERING VSAT MODE
VSAT mode should not be entered until the RC4000 has been well calibrated with the antenna and
receiving systems. VSAT mode requires that the LOCATE and STOW modes consistently work well.
In order to achieve good performance, ensure that:
1) the azimuth, elevation and polarization axes are well calibrated
2) the Fluxgate calibration procedure as been performed and yields good results
3) the source of signal strength has been well calibrated
Before entering VSAT mode, the satellite to be used and the polarization orientation (Horizontal, Vertical
or None) has been selected as part of a completed LOCATE function.
ENTERING VSAT MODE
VSAT mode is selected from the SYSTEM DEFINITION configuration screen (3.3.1.2.1).
GPS: 1 CONFIG-SYSTEM
COMPASS: 1 ANT_SIZE: 120 WAVEGUIDE:0
MODE: 2
<1>LOCATE <2>MENU <3>MANUAL <4>VSAT
When the value of 4 is entered for the MODE item, the RC4000 will enter VSAT “mode”.
When VSAT mode is entered, expert access permission (3.3.1.1.1) is set to NORMAL. This in itself will
prevent the operator from accessing most configuration items and some functions of the RC4000. VSAT
mode will further limit operator actions as now described.
After VSAT mode is entered, the RC4000 switches to the MENU screen. The following describes VSAT
mode operation by showing a typical sequence of events.