Introduction
The Satlink ST-6986 is a versatile DVB-S/S2X/T/T2/C compliant handheld combo meter designed for the installation and verification of satellite TV, terrestrial antenna, and cable signals. It features H.265/HEVC (10-bit) hardware decoding, a 7-inch high-definition TFT LCD screen, and various analysis tools including a constellation analyzer and spectrum analyzer. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.
Video: Unboxing and User Interface Demonstration of the Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter.
Key Features
- 7-inch High Definition TFT LCD Screen
- Fully DVB-S/S2X/T/T2/C, MPEG-2/MPEG-4 compliant
- MPEG-2 / H.264 / H.265 (10 Bit) Hardware decoding
- Digital meter for signal strength and quality
- Constellation analyzer
- Spectrum analyzer
- Supports scan of Auto, Blind, Manual, or NIT
- Sound and Light Alarm for Locking Signal
- Auto Calculate Angle of AZ, EL
- Supports DISEQC 1.0/1.1/1.2, Unicable, 0/22kHz Tone
- Speaker Integrated
- Support both AV out and AV in
- Support both HDMI out and HDMI in
- Support WiFi and Ethernet connection
- Optical Power measurement
- LNB short protect
- 7.4V/5000mAh Li-Ion Battery Included
- Software upgrade via USB port
- Easy to carry
Image: Diagram highlighting the key features and ports of the Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter.
Setup
1. Unboxing
The device typically comes with the following items:
- Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter
- Carrying Bag
- Power Adapter
- AV Cable
- Shoulder Strap
Image: The Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter laid out with its accessories, including the carrying bag, power adapter, and cables.
2. Battery Installation and Charging
The device includes a 7.4V/5000mAh Li-Ion battery. Ensure it is properly seated in the battery compartment on the rear of the device. To charge, connect the provided power adapter to the DC IN port on the rear panel and then to a power outlet. The 'CHG' indicator light on the front panel will illuminate to show charging status.
Image: Rear view of the Satlink ST-6986, highlighting the battery compartment and various input/output ports.
3. Power On/Off
Press and hold the red power button on the front panel to turn the device on or off.
4. Initial Language Selection
Upon first use or after a factory reset, you may need to select your preferred language. Navigate to the 'Setting' menu, then 'Language' to choose from available options such as English, French, Russian, Portuguese, Turkish, Deutsch, Italiano, Español, Polski, or Indonesia.
Image: The Satlink ST-6986 display showing the 'Setting' menu with various language options highlighted.
Operating Instructions
1. Navigation
Use the directional pad (up, down, left, right) and the 'OK' button for menu navigation and selection. The 'MENU' button accesses the main menu, and 'EXIT' returns to the previous screen.
2. Signal Measurement (DVB-S/S2X, DVB-T/T2, DVB-C)
- Satellite (DVB-S/S2X): Connect the satellite dish LNB cable to the 'LNB' input. Select 'Satellite' from the main menu. Configure LNB settings (LNB type, frequency, 22KHz tone, DiSEqC, Unicable) as needed. The device will display signal strength, quality, and spectrum analysis.
- Terrestrial (DVB-T/T2): Connect the terrestrial antenna to the 'ANT' input. Select 'Terrestrial' from the main menu.
- Cable (DVB-C): Connect the cable signal to the 'ANT' input. Select 'Cable' from the main menu.
Image: The Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter's screen showing a spectrum analysis display, indicating signal levels and frequencies.
3. Advanced Analysis Tools
- Spectrum Analyzer: Access the 'Spectrum' option from the main menu to view real-time signal spectrums for DVB-S2, DVB-T2, or DVB-C.
- Constellation Analyzer: Use this feature to analyze signal quality and identify potential issues.
4. Channel Scan
Perform Auto, Blind, Manual, or NIT scans to find available channels for your selected signal type.
5. Audio/Video Input/Output
- AV Out: Connect the AV OUT port to an external display using the provided AV cable.
- HDMI Out: Connect the HDMI OUT port to an HDMI-compatible display for high-definition video and audio output.
- AV In: Connect an external AV source to the AV IN port to display its content on the meter's screen.
- HDMI In: Connect an external HDMI source to the HDMI IN port to display its content on the meter's screen.
Image: Side view of the Satlink ST-6986, showing the AV IN and HDMI IN ports for connecting external video sources.
6. Network Connectivity
The device supports WiFi and Ethernet connections for network-related functions. Access these options from the main menu under 'Network'.
7. Optical Power Measurement
Utilize the dedicated optical power measurement function for fiber optic signal testing.
Maintenance
1. Battery Care
To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Charge the device regularly, especially if it will be stored for an extended period.
2. Cleaning
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the screen or casing.
3. Software Upgrade
Software upgrades can be performed via the USB port. Refer to the official Satlink website for the latest firmware and detailed instructions.
4. LNB Short Protect
The device features LNB short protection to prevent damage from short circuits in the LNB cable. If a short circuit is detected, the device will alert you and cut power to the LNB.
Troubleshooting
1. No Signal / Low Signal Quality
- Check all cable connections (LNB, Antenna, Cable) to ensure they are secure.
- Ensure LNB power is enabled and the correct voltage is selected in the settings.
- Verify dish/antenna alignment using the signal strength and quality indicators on the meter.
- Check for any physical obstructions between the dish/antenna and the signal source.
- For satellite signals, ensure correct frequency and symbol rate settings are entered.
2. Device Not Powering On
- Ensure the battery is sufficiently charged. Connect the power adapter and try again.
- Check the power adapter and cable for any visible damage.
3. Display Issues
- Adjust screen brightness in the device's settings menu.
- If the screen is unresponsive or frozen, try restarting the device by holding the power button.
4. No Audio
- Check the volume settings on the device.
- Ensure external speakers or headphones are properly connected if used.
- Verify audio output settings in the device's menu.
Specifications
Image: Detailed technical specifications for the Satlink ST-6986 Combo Meter.
| Category | Feature | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| TRANSMISSION STANDARDS | DVB-S/S2X/T/T2/C, H.264/AVC, H.265/HEVC (10 Bit) | |
| SATELLITE INPUT/DEMODULATION | Connector Type | F Type |
| Input Frequency | 950 to 2150 MHz | |
| Signal Input Level | -65 to -25 dBm | |
| Band Switch Control | 22KHz | |
| LNB Supply | 13V/18V, IMax 400mA | |
| Demodulation Type | QPSK, 8PSK, 16APSK | |
| DVB-T/T2/C INPUT/DEMODULATION | Connector Type | Female Type |
| Input Frequency | 48 to 862 MHz | |
| Signal Input Level | -79.5dBm (MAX) | |
| ANT Supply | 5V, 12V/24V IMax 100mA | |
| Demodulation Type | QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, 256QAM | |
| LCD FEATURES | LCD Type | TFT Transmissive |
| Number of Dots | 800 x 3(RGB) x 480 | |
| Active Area (WxH) | 154.08 x 85.92 mm² | |
| AV output interface | Connector Type | 3.5 mm jack |
| Video Output | CVBS | |
| Audio Output | Stereo Audio L/R output | |
| HDMI output connector | HDMI 1.3a | |
| AV input interface | Connector Type | 3.5 mm jack |
| Video Input | CVBS | |
| Audio Input | Stereo Audio L/R input | |
| AUDIO/VIDEO PROCESSING | Video decompression | MPEG-2 MP@HL, MPEG-1 Decoding, MPEG-4 ASP@L5 HD resolution, H.264 MP&HP@L4.1W, JPEG decoding, HEVC/H.265 (10 Bit) |
| Resolving rate | PAL-25 frame@720*576, NTSC-30 frame@720*480 | |
| Signal compatibility | Support conversion for different video formats | |
| Video Format | 4:3, 16:9, By Pan & Scan and Letter Box conversion | |
| Audio Decompression | MPEG-1 Layer I/II, MPEG-2 Layer I/II | |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo, Mono, R/L | |
| DATA SERVICE PORT | Connector | USB |
| Data Protocol | USB2.0 interface | |
| File Management System | NTFS, FAT32, FAT16 | |
| File Format | wma, mp3, mp4, avi, jpg, jpeg, bmp, img | |
| POWER SUPPLY | Li-Ion Battery | 7.4V/5000mAh (The machine behind labeling shall prevail) |
| Adapter | OUTPUT: DC12V/1.5A, INTUPT: 100-240VAC 50/60Hz (Will be subject to actual configuration) | |
| Power Consumption | Max. 10W | |
| PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS | Size (W x D x H) | 25.3x17.1x5.4 (cm³) |
| Net Weight | 1.3kg |
User Tips
- Language Settings: The device supports multiple languages. If the language is not set to your preference, navigate to the 'Setting' menu and select 'Language' to change it.
- Carrying Case: Utilize the included carrying case and strap for easy transport and protection of the device during fieldwork.
- Regular Software Updates: Keep the device's software updated via the USB port to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.