A Guide to TracVision 4 User's Guide & Operating Instructions

Welcome to TracVision 4

Congratulations on choosing the TracVision 4, one of the most advanced automatic satellite tracking systems available today. This user's guide provides essential information for using the system and receiving the satellite entertainment you want. For detailed installation, configuration, and maintenance, refer to the TracVision 4 Technical Manual.

Important Information Icons:

• [Tip]: Helpful tips or suggestions for getting the highest quality out of your system.
• [Alert]: Important information regarding procedures, product specifications, or product use.
• [Maintenance/Mechanical]: Information about installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, or other mechanical issues.
• [Electrical Safety Warning]: An electrical safety warning to help identify electrical issues that can be a hazard to the KVH product or a user.

TracVision 4 Serial Number

This serial number will be required for all troubleshooting or service calls made regarding this product.

Contact KVH Industries:

KVH Industries, Inc.
50 Enterprise Center
Middletown, RI 02842-5279 USA
Tel: +1 401 847-3327
Fax: +1 401 849-0045
E-mail: info@kvh.com
Internet: www.kvh.com

Contact KVH Europe:

KVH Europe A/S
Kokkedal Industripark 2B
2980 Kokkedal, Denmark
Tel: +45 45 160 180
Fax: +45 45 160 181
E-mail: info@kvh.dk
Internet: www.kvh.com

If you have any comments regarding this manual, please e-mail them to manuals@kvh.com. Your input is greatly appreciated!

Click here to go to our state-of-the-art Customer Support web page for the fastest and easiest way to get all of your questions answered!

KVH Part # 54-0150-01 Rev. B. © 2004, KVH Industries, Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks

• TracVision® and KVH® are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.
• TracNet™ is a trademark of KVH Industries, Inc.
• DVB® (Digital Video Broadcasting) is a registered trademark of the DVB Project.
• DIRECTV® is a registered trademark of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of the DIRECTV Group.
• 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 TracVision 4 System Overview - Page 3
   • 1.2 TracVision 4 Components - Page 5

2. Using Your TracVision 4

   • 2.1 Receiving Satellite Signals - Page 9
   • 2.2 Turning On the System - Page 10
   • 2.3 Changing Channels and Switching to the Second Satellite - Page 11
   • 2.4 Watching Television - Page 14
   • 2.5 Internet Access - Page 15

3. Troubleshooting

   • 3.1 Troubleshooting Matrix - Page 19
   • 3.2 Causes and Remedies for Common Operational Issues - Page 20
   • 3.3 IRD Troubleshooting - Page 23
   • 3.4 Antenna Gyro and LNB Faults - Page 23

1 - Introduction

This section provides a basic overview of the TracVision 4 system, explaining how it works and the function of each component.

Contents

• 1.1 TracVision 4 System Overview - Page 3
• 1.2 TracVision 4 Components - Page 5

1.1 TracVision 4 System Overview

A complete satellite TV system, as illustrated in Figure 1-1, includes the TracVision 4 antenna connected to the switchplate, an IRD (satellite TV receiver), and a television set. The optional TV/SAT Switch allows you to select a satellite at the press of a button. A desktop or laptop computer is used to configure the system and conduct diagnostics.

System Diagram (Figure 1-1)

The system diagram shows the TracVision 4 Antenna connected to the Switchplate. The Switchplate has ports for Power and Data, and a PC Maintenance port. An optional TV/SAT Switch can be connected. The system also connects to Satellite Receiver(s) (IRD) which output to TV(s). A Laptop PC can be connected for maintenance.

Power requirements are 11-16 VDC, 3.5-4.5 Amps.

System Compatibility

The TracVision 4 satellite antenna is fully compatible with Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB®) satellites, as well as DIRECTV®'s Digital Satellite Service (DSS) satellites. The system is also fully compatible with KVH's TracNet™ 2.0 Mobile High-speed Internet System. For more information about TracNet 2.0, visit www.kvh.com.

In-motion Tracking

The TracVision 4 uses a state-of-the-art actively stabilized antenna system. Once a satellite is acquired, the antenna gyro continuously measures the heading, pitch, and roll of your vessel and sends commands to the antenna motors to keep the antenna pointed at the satellite at all times.

Figure 1-2: Illustrates how the TracVision identifies and compensates for vessel motion.

Satellite Library

Your TracVision 4 includes a pre-programmed satellite library of North American and European satellite services. If the satellite service you wish to receive is not already in the library, an authorized technician can add two additional satellites. Tables 1-1 and 1-2 list possible satellite pairs for North America and Europe. Contact your satellite TV service provider for complete details and coverage area maps.

Table 1-1: Available Satellite Pairs - North America

(North American LNB required)

Table 1-2: Available Satellite Pairs - Europe

(European LNB required)

1.2 TracVision 4 Components

The TracVision 4 system includes the following components:

Antenna Unit

The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning mechanism, Low Noise Block (LNB), power supply, and control elements within a molded ABS radome. Weathertight connectors on the bottom of the baseplate join the power, signal, and control cabling from belowdecks units.

Switchplate

The switchplate controls power to the antenna via the On/Off switch. It also provides a DB9 maintenance port for connecting a computer or TV/SAT Switch for changing satellites and configuring the system.

Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) (Satellite TV Receiver)

The IRD (purchased separately) receives satellite signals from the antenna unit for signal processing and channel selection, and sends the signals to the TV set for viewing. Refer to the user's manual provided with your selected IRD for complete operating instructions.

2 - Using Your TracVision 4

This section explains everything you need to know to operate your TracVision 4 system. Antenna unit initialization and satellite acquisition are automatic, making the system very easy to use.

Contents

• 2.1 Receiving Satellite Signals - Page 9
• 2.2 Turning On the System - Page 10
• 2.3 Changing Channels and Switching to the Second Satellite - Page 11
• 2.4 Watching Television - Page 14
• 2.5 Internet Access - Page 15

2.1 Receiving Satellite Signals

For TracVision 4 to receive satellite TV 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 vessel for any objects that could be blocking the signal, such as other vessels, trees, buildings, or other onboard equipment.

Figure 2-1: Illustrates objects that might block satellite signals.

You must also be located within the selected satellite's coverage area to receive its signal. Refer to your satellite television service manual to check the viable coverage area. KVH provides links to several web sites that offer satellite coverage information at www.kvh.com/footprint.

2.2 Turning On the System

[Tip]: To minimize the time it takes the antenna to acquire the satellite, do not change the channel during the startup process or cable unwrap.

The TracVision 4 system is easy to use, with automatic antenna unit initialization and satellite acquisition.

1. Turn on the IRD and the television. (Refer to your IRD user's manual for complete operating instructions.)
2. Turn on the antenna using the switchplate's On/Off switch. Figure 2-2: Shows the Switchplate On/Off Switch.
3. Avoid turning the vessel for 60 seconds after turning on the antenna to allow the antenna gyro to initialize properly.

2.3 Changing Channels and Switching to the Second Satellite

If you have followed the installation instructions, your system should be set to the active satellite pair of your choice and have downloaded the appropriate channel guides. You must also have a properly configured IRD (refer to your IRD User's Manual if not done).

Your TracVision system is programmed to track either of two satellites, stored as Satellite A and Satellite B. You can use the IRD remote control, the optional TV/SAT Switch, or a PC to select between the two satellites.

Using the IRD Remote Control to Switch Between Satellites

When the TracVision 4 system and the IRD have matching configurations, switching satellites is as easy as changing channels with the remote. TracVision 4 will automatically switch from Satellite A to B and back as necessary to receive your selected channel.

DIRECTV Satellite Subscribers

DIRECTV subscribers in certain regions may require a DSS Plus IRD to receive broadcasts from multiple satellites. If connected to the antenna's RF1 connector, the DSS Plus IRD allows channel switching using the IRD remote. If you are a DIRECTV subscriber without a DSS Plus IRD, or if you are using a multiswitch, use the optional TV/SAT Switch* or a PC.

EchoStar and ExpressVu Satellite Subscribers

EchoStar and ExpressVu subscribers will need to use the optional TV/SAT Switch* or a PC to change satellites.

* To order a TV/SAT Switch (KVH Part Number 01-0245), please call +1 401 847-3327.

[Alert]: The satellite configuration on your IRD must match the satellite setting on the TracVision 4 system. Satellite A on TracVision 4 must be the same satellite as IRD Alternative 1 (or A) and assigned the IRD DiSEqC 1 setting. Satellite B on TracVision 4 must be the same satellite as IRD Alternative 2 (or B) and assigned the IRD DiSEqC 2 setting. (DiSEqC settings apply to European systems and DIRECTV DSS Plus™ IRDs.) Refer to your IRD user manual for complete instructions.

[Alert]: When you switch from one satellite to another, all IRDs connected to the system will receive signals from the newly selected satellite.

Using the TV/SAT Switch to Switch Between Satellites - Optional

If you are unable to switch between satellites using the IRD remote control, you can use the optional TV/SAT Switch (see Figure 2-3) to easily select between Satellite A and Satellite B.

TV/SAT Switch Controls and Indicators

The 'Select' button controls the switch. It has three LED indicators showing status:

Figure 2-3: Shows the TV/SAT Switch.

Connecting the TV/SAT Switch

To use the TV/SAT Switch, connect it to the TracVision system:

1. Connect the TV/SAT Switch's data cable to the maintenance port on the switchplate. Figure 2-4: Shows the Switchplate Maintenance Port (DB9 Connector).
2. The Sat A and Sat B indicators will blink while the system initializes.
3. Either the Sat A or Sat B indicator will turn solid green, indicating which satellite is currently being tracked.

Using a PC to Switch Between Satellites

If you cannot switch satellites using the IRD remote or TV/SAT Switch, you can use a PC connected to the maintenance port. This requires terminal emulation software (e.g., Windows Hyperterminal).

To switch satellites using a PC:

1. Connect one end of the PC data cable to the DB9 connector on the switchplate. Connect the other end to your PC's serial port (an adapter may be needed).
2. Open the terminal emulation software and set the following parameters:
   • Bits per second: 9600
   • Data bits: 8
   • Parity: None
   • Stop bits: 1
   • Flow control: None
3. Once the connection is made, enter the Satellite Selection command:

   Command: @L,A or B<cr> (where <cr> indicates a carriage return/ENTER key)

   Where: A = track Satellite A, B = track Satellite B.

4. The antenna unit will shift to track the selected satellite.

2.4 Watching Television

TracVision 4 allows you to watch satellite TV whether your vessel is in motion or at rest.

Cable Unwrap

The antenna can rotate 720° before its cable end. If this occurs, the system automatically unwraps the cable by rotating the dish in the opposite direction. The television transmission will momentarily freeze while the cable unwraps and the antenna reacquires the satellite.

Conical Scan Tracking

The antenna uses conical scanning to maintain peak signal strength and update the satellite's position. When active, the antenna moves in a circular motion to sweep across the satellite's peak signal. Signal strength is fed back to control circuits to maintain the strongest signal lock.

If the satellite signal is lost during conical scan tracking, a 45-second time-out delay is imposed. If the signal is not regained, the antenna will automatically search for the satellite.

Sleep Mode

When the vessel stops for one minute (e.g., at a dock), the antenna unit enters Sleep Mode, locking in place to conserve power. As soon as the vessel moves beyond a 1°-2° window, or the RF level changes significantly, Sleep Mode turns off, and the system resumes tracking or enters Search mode.

To disable Sleep Mode using a software command:

1. Connect a laptop computer to the system via the maintenance port and terminal emulation program (as described in "Using a PC to Switch Between Satellites").
2. Turn on the antenna. When the limit switch test is complete:
   • Type HALT<cr> (<cr> indicates a carriage return/ENTER key).
   • Type DEBUGON<cr>.
   • Type SLEEPOFF<cr>.
3. Cycle the antenna's power. Sleep Mode is now disabled.
4. To reactivate Sleep Mode, repeat the process, but type SLEEPON<cr> in Step 2c.

2.5 Internet Access

Your TracVision 4 can receive high-speed Internet data when used with KVH's TracNet 2.0 Mobile High-speed Internet System. TracNet 2.0 provides broadband Internet access on the move via satellite downloads and a wireless return path. For more information about TracNet 2.0 in North America and Europe, visit www.kvh.com.

TracNet Logo: Indicates Satellite Internet Ready.

3 - Troubleshooting

This section identifies basic trouble symptoms and lists their possible causes and solutions.

Contents

• 3.1 Troubleshooting Matrix - Page 19
• 3.2 Causes and Remedies for Common Operational Issues - Page 20
• 3.3 IRD Troubleshooting - Page 23
• 3.4 Antenna Gyro and LNB Faults - Page 23

3.1 Troubleshooting Matrix

The troubleshooting matrix (Table 3-1) identifies trouble symptoms, their possible causes, and references to solutions.

Key:

• 1 = Anyone can do
• 2 = Electronics know-how recommended
• 3 = Dealer service recommended

3.2 Causes and Remedies for Common Operational Issues

Several common issues can affect signal reception quality or the operation of the TracVision 4. The following sections address these issues and potential solutions.

Blown Fuse, Low Power, or Wiring

If the antenna unit is installed but non-responsive, check these three factors:

Blown Fuse

With the system powered on, move the antenna reflector by hand. If it doesn't move freely, a fuse is likely not the problem. If it moves freely, one of the two fuses on the CPU Board may be blown. The TracVision 4 Technical Manual provides instructions for authorized service personnel to replace fuses. Contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

Low Power

If the power cable to the antenna unit exceeds 50 ft (15 m), power levels can decrease, resulting in insufficient voltage or current at the antenna unit. The TracVision 4 Technical Manual provides instructions for supplying adequate power. Contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

Wiring

Improper wiring can prevent the system from operating correctly. The TracVision 4 Technical Manual provides instructions for authorized service personnel to check wiring. Contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

If you need help troubleshooting your system, please contact an authorized KVH dealer. To find one, visit www.kvh.com, or contact KVH directly using the numbers on the first page of this manual.

Vessel Turning During Startup

If the vessel turns during the 60-second startup and initialization sequence, the antenna gyro may record this motion as "standing still," causing improper tracking. To resolve this, turn the TracVision 4 off for at least 10 seconds, then turn it back on, ensuring the vessel is motionless or traveling in a straight line for the first 60 seconds.

Incorrect Satellite Configuration (European Systems Only)

The satellite configuration on European IRDs must match the TracVision 4 system settings:

• Satellite A on TracVision 4 must match IRD Alternative 1 (or A) and be assigned the IRD DiSEqC 1 setting.
• Satellite B on TracVision 4 must match IRD Alternative 2 (or B) and be assigned the IRD DiSEqC 2 setting.

Refer to your IRD user manual for configuration instructions.

Satellite Signal Blocked

Satellite signals can be blocked or degraded by buildings, other vessels, or onboard equipment. Moving the vessel or removing the obstruction will clear the signal.

Satellite Coverage Issue

TracVision 4 provides reception within its antenna coverage area. Reception may degrade near fringe coverage areas. Refer to your satellite television service manual for viable coverage area information.

KVH provides links to satellite coverage information at www.kvh.com/footprint.

Radar Interference

Radar units can overload the antenna's front-end circuits. Check with your installer to ensure the TracVision 4 antenna unit is optimally located relative to your radar unit.

Satellite Frequency Data Changed

If some channels work but others do not, or if the antenna cannot find the satellite, the satellite's frequency data may have changed. This data can be updated via the maintenance port. Contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

Incorrect or Loose RF Connectors

A loose RF connector can reduce satellite signal quality. If you cannot switch satellites using the IRD remote, the IRD might be connected to the wrong antenna baseplate connector. The TracVision 4 Technical Manual provides instructions for checking RF connections. Contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

Type of Multiswitch Used (North American Systems Only)

An active (not passive) multiswitch must always be used to connect the TracVision 4 system to multiple IRDs. Contact your KVH dealer or service center.

3.3 IRD Troubleshooting

The IRD provided with your satellite television service may be the cause of less-than-ideal operation. First, check the IRD's configuration for desired programming. For a faulty IRD, refer to its user manual. If the IRD is configured properly and functional, contact your local KVH dealer or service center.

3.4 Antenna Gyro and LNB Faults

The TracVision 4 Technical Manual provides detailed instructions for authorized service personnel regarding replacement of the antenna's gyro or Low Noise Block (LNB). Contact your local KVH dealer or service center for assistance.

KVH Industries Limited Warranty - TracVision 4

Limited Warranty on Hardware

KVH Industries, Inc. warrants the KVH product against defects in materials for TWO (2) years and against factory labor costs for ONE (1) year from the original retail purchase date. The customer must verify the purchase date by returning the warranty card within 30 days or providing a dated sales receipt. If the date cannot be verified, the warranty period begins 30 days after the product's manufacture date.

If a defect is discovered, KVH will, at its option, repair, replace, or refund the purchase price at no charge. The product must be returned during the warranty period with transportation charges prepaid to the factory. Include your name, address, phone number, problem description, and a copy of the bill of sale or sales receipt. Alternatively, bring the product to an Authorized KVH dealer/distributor for repair. During the first year, if installed by an Authorized dealer/distributor, KVH will cover dealer/distributor labor charges for warranty repairs, provided KVH pre-approves the charges.

This Limited Warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by accident, abuse, misuse, misapplication, or unauthorized modification; if the serial number has been removed or defaced; or if any factory-sealed part has been opened without authorization.

Return Authorization

A Return Material Authorization (RMA) is required before returning the product. Call Technical Support at +1 401 847-3327 or e-mail techs@kvh.com to obtain an RMA number. Write the RMA number clearly on the outside of the box. Shipments without an RMA number will be refused and returned at your expense. Use original packaging if possible.

KVH disclaims all other warranties, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. KVH's liability shall not exceed the product's price. KVH is not liable for special, punitive, incidental, consequential damages, lost profits, or goodwill.

Any implied warranty, if not excludable by law, is limited to ONE (1) YEAR from the original retail purchase date.

Some states/countries may not allow limitations on implied warranties or consequential damages. This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by location.

Contact Information

KVH Industries, Inc.
50 Enterprise Center
Middletown, RI 02842-5279 U.S.A.
Phone: (401) 847-3327
Fax: (401) 849-0045
E-mail: info@kvh.com
Internet: www.kvh.com

KVH Europe A/S
Kokkedal Industripark 2B
2980 Kokkedal Denmark
Phone: +45 45 160 180
Fax: +45 45 160 181
E-mail: info@kvh.dk
Internet: www.kvh.com

KVH® and TracVision® are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.