INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL

FOR SEA TEL MODEL

DAC-03 TRACKING ANTENNA CONTROLLER
(with 70 or 140 MHz SCPC Narrow Band Receiver)
FOR UNLIMITED ANTENNA SYSTEMS

Sea Tel, Inc. Sea Tel Europe

4030 Nelson Avenue Unit 1, Orion Industrial Centre
Concord, CA 94520 Wide Lane, Swaythling
Tel: (925) 798-7979 Southampton, UK S0 18 2HJ
Fax: (925) 798-7986 Tel: 44 (0)23 80 671155
Email: seatel@cobham.com Fax: 44 (0)23 80 671166
Web: www.cobham.com\seatel Email: seatel@cobham.com
Web: www.cobham.com\seatel
Sea Tel Inc doing business as Cobham SATCOM
October 29, 2008 Document. No. 123866 Revision C2
 These commodities, technology or software were exported from the
United States in accordance with the Export Administration Regulations.
Diversion contrary to U.S. law is prohibited.

Sea Tel Marine Stabilized Antenna systems are manufactured in the

United States of America.

Sea Tel is an ISO 9001:2000 registered company. Certificate Number 19.2867 was
issued August 12, 2005. Sea Tel was originally registered on November 09, 1998.

The DAC-03 Antenna Control Unit (exclusively for use with Sea Tel Marine Stabilized
Antenna Pedestals) complies with the requirements of European Norms and European
Standards EN 60945 (1997) and prETS 300 339 (1998-03). Sea Tel European Union
Declaration of Conformity for this equipment is contained in this manual.

Copyright Notice

All Rights Reserved. The information contained in this document is proprietary to Sea Tel, Inc.. This
document may not be reproduced or distributed in any form without the consent of Sea Tel, Inc.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2006 Sea Tel, Inc.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Introduction

Revision History

REV ECO# Date Description By

A N/A December 17, 2004 Initial Production Release MDN
B N/A September 29, 2005 Updated text & drawings. Added FCC TX Mute compliance MDN
installation and testing information
C N/A April 17 2006 MDN
C1 N/A October 29, 2008 Update logo and font MDN

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 Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.1. CHARACTERISTICS.....................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.2. DAC-03 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................................................................1-1
1.3. KEYBOARD ENTRY ......................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.4. STATUS LEDS ............................................................................................................................................................................1-1
1.5. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM.......................................................................................................................................1-2
1.6. GENERAL SCOPE OF THIS MANUAL .........................................................................................................................................1-2
1.7. QUICK OVERVIEW OF CONTENTS ...........................................................................................................................................1-2
2. OPERATION.................................................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.1. QUICK START OPERATION .......................................................................................................................................................2-1
2.2. FRONT PANEL LAYOUT .............................................................................................................................................................2-2
2.3. BASIC KEYBOARD ENTRY..........................................................................................................................................................2-2
2.4. BASIC DESCRIPTION OF FRONT PANEL KEYS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS .............................................................................2-2
2.5. DISPLAY & ENTRY OPERATION MENU ..................................................................................................................................2-4
2.5.1. SHIP information menus....................................................................................................................................2-4
2.5.2. SAT information menus.......................................................................................................................................2-5
2.5.3. ANTENNA information menus. .......................................................................................................................2-6
2.5.4. MODE Control & Status menus.......................................................................................................................2-9
2.5.5. SETUP Parameter display and entry menus.......................................................................................... 2-10
2.6. TRACKING OPERATION ..........................................................................................................................................................2-10
2.6.1. DishScan Operation............................................................................................................................................ 2-10
2.6.2. Internal Tracking Receiver settings........................................................................................................... 2-11
2.6.3. C/X and Ku Band Selections........................................................................................................................... 2-11
2.7. SEARCHING OPERATION........................................................................................................................................................2-11
2.7.1. Default Standard (Box) Search Pattern ................................................................................................... 2-11
2.7.2. Inclined Orbit Search Pattern....................................................................................................................... 2-12
2.7.3. No Gyro Search Pattern ................................................................................................................................... 2-13
2.8. AUTO-POLARIZATION OPERATION.....................................................................................................................................2-14
2.9. RADOME ASSEMBLY OPERATION ........................................................................................................................................2-14
3. BASIC SYSTEM INFORMATION....................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1. SATELLITE BASICS .....................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.1. C-Band Receive Frequency (3.7-4.2GHz) ...................................................................................................3-1
3.1.2. Ku-Band Receive Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz)......................................................................................3-1
3.1.3. Blockage ......................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.4. Rain Fade.....................................................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1.5. Signal level..................................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.1.6. Satellite Footprint Charts...................................................................................................................................3-2
3.1.7. Linear Satellite polarization...............................................................................................................................3-2
3.2. ANTENNA BASICS ......................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.1. Azimuth........................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.2. Elevation......................................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.3. Antenna polarization ............................................................................................................................................3-3
3.2.4. Stabilization...............................................................................................................................................................3-4
3.2.5. Narrow Band Tracking Receivers....................................................................................................................3-4
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3.2.6. Tracking....................................................................................................................................................................... 3-4

3.3. COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION ............................................................................................................. 3-4
3.3.1. Antenna ADE Assembly ...................................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.3.2. Antenna Control Unit........................................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.3.3. Below Decks AC Power Supply........................................................................................................................ 3-5
3.3.4. Other Below Decks Equipment ....................................................................................................................... 3-5
4. INSTALLATION.........................................................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1. GENERAL CAUTIONS & WARNINGS ...................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2. SITE SURVEY............................................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.3. PREPARING FOR THE INSTALLATION..................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.3.1. Unpack Shipping Crates and Inspect / Inventory ................................................................................ 4-1
4.3.2. Preparing BDE Location...................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.3.3. Read the Installation Information................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.3.4. Plan The Install........................................................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.3.5. The Installing Cables............................................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.4. INSTALL THE ACU..................................................................................................................................................................... 4-2
4.5. INSTALL THE TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP (TMS) .......................................................................................................... 4-2
4.6. INSTALL THE BASE MULTIPLEXER PANEL ............................................................................................................................. 4-2
4.7. TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP (TMS) CONNECTIONS ...................................................................................................... 4-2
4.8. PEDESTAL CONTROL CONNECTION ....................................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.9. AC POWER TO THE ACU........................................................................................................................................................ 4-4
4.10. AGC TRACKING CONNECTION............................................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.11. MONITOR AND CONTROL CONNECTIONS ........................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.12. INSTALL OTHER BDE EQUIPMENT......................................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.13. FINAL CHECKS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 4-4
4.13.1. Visual/Electrical inspection ............................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.13.2. Electrical - Double check wiring connections ......................................................................................... 4-4
4.14. POWER-UP .................................................................................................................................................................................. 4-4
4.15. SETUP ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
5. SETUP ..............................................................................................................................................................................................5-1
5.1. OPERATOR SETTINGS................................................................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.2. TRACKING AND BAND SELECTION SETTINGS ..................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3. DEFAULT SETUP PARAMETERS ............................................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3.1. EL TRIM....................................................................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3.2. AZ TRIM...................................................................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3.3. AUTO THRES............................................................................................................................................................. 5-2
5.3.4. EL STEP SIZE............................................................................................................................................................ 5-2
5.3.5. AZ STEP SIZE........................................................................................................................................................... 5-2
5.3.6. STEP INTEGRAL ...................................................................................................................................................... 5-2
5.3.7. SEARCH INC ............................................................................................................................................................. 5-2
5.3.8. SEARCH LIMIT ........................................................................................................................................................ 5-2
5.3.9. SEARCH DELAY........................................................................................................................................................ 5-3
5.3.10. SWEEP INC................................................................................................................................................................ 5-3
5.3.11. SYSTEM TYPE ........................................................................................................................................................... 5-3

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5.3.12. GYRO TYPE .................................................................................................................................................................5-3

5.3.13. POLANG TYPE...........................................................................................................................................................5-4
5.3.14. POL OFFSET...............................................................................................................................................................5-4
5.3.15. POL SCALE..................................................................................................................................................................5-4
5.3.16. Radiation Hazard and Blockage Mapping (AZ LIMIT parameters)..............................................5-4
5.3.17. TX Polarity ..................................................................................................................................................................5-7
5.3.18. TRACK DISP (your software may not have this setting)....................................................................5-7
5.3.19. SAVE NEW PARAMETERS...................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.20. REMOTE COMMAND............................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.21. REMOTE MONITOR...............................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.22. DISHSCAN..................................................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.23. SAT REF........................................................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.24. REMOTE TILT ...........................................................................................................................................................5-8
5.3.25. REMOTE PARAMETERS .......................................................................................................................................5-8
6. FUNCTIONAL TESTING ......................................................................................................................................................6-1
6.1. ACU / ANTENNA SYSTEM CHECK..........................................................................................................................................6-1
6.2. LATITUDE/LONGITUDE AUTO-UPDATE CHECK ...................................................................................................................6-1
6.3. SHIP HEADING – GYRO COMPASS FOLLOWING CHECK ....................................................................................................6-1
6.4. CHECK TRACKING RECEIVER SETTINGS ................................................................................................................................6-1
6.5. AZIMUTH & ELEVATION DRIVE ..............................................................................................................................................6-2
6.6. FOUR QUADRANT TRACKING TEST .......................................................................................................................................6-2
6.7. BLOCKAGE SIMULATION TEST ................................................................................................................................................6-2
6.8. CHECK ACU PARAMETERS (YOUR SOFTWARE MAY NOT HAVE ALL OF THESE SETTINGS) .........................................6-4
7. MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................................7-1
7.1. GENERAL CAUTIONS & WARNINGS.......................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2. TROUBLESHOOTING THE ACU ...............................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.1. Display is blank ........................................................................................................................................................7-1
7.2.2. Power-up displays “REMOTE NOT RESPONDING”................................................................................7-1
7.2.3. NMEA GPS Checkout............................................................................................................................................7-2
7.2.4. Auxiliary Serial Port Adapter (J11) Checkout...........................................................................................7-2
7.2.5. Check Parameters Settings ...............................................................................................................................7-2
7.3. TROUBLESHOOTING SHIPS GYRO COMPASS PROBLEMS ...................................................................................................7-2
7.3.1. STEP-BY-STEP...........................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.3.2. 1:1 SYNCHRO ............................................................................................................................................................7-2
7.3.3. 360:1 Synchro ..........................................................................................................................................................7-3
7.4. DISPLAY OFFSETS / OPTIMIZING TARGETING ....................................................................................................................7-4
7.5. PEDESTAL CONTROL UNIT CONFIGURATION ......................................................................................................................7-4
7.6. PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS ANTENNA CONTROL UNIT ...........................................................................................7-4
8. DAC-03 W/SCPC RECEIVER TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.....................................................................8-1
8.1. GENERAL ......................................................................................................................................................................................8-1
8.2. FRONT PANEL..............................................................................................................................................................................8-1
8.3. REAR PANEL.................................................................................................................................................................................8-1
8.4. RS-232 MONITOR AND CONTROL INTERFACE ..................................................................................................................8-1
8.5. NMEA INTERFACE ....................................................................................................................................................................8-2

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8.6.
RF TRACKING INPUT ................................................................................................................................................................ 8-2
8.6.1. Narrow Band SCPC receiver: ............................................................................................................................ 8-2
8.7. TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP................................................................................................................................................. 8-2
8.7.1. Synchro Interface:................................................................................................................................................. 8-2
8.7.2. SBS Interface............................................................................................................................................................ 8-2
8.7.3. Control Interface ................................................................................................................................................... 8-2
8.7.4. NMEA Interface...................................................................................................................................................... 8-3
8.8. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 8-3
8.9. CABLES ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 8-4
8.9.1. DAC AC Power Cable............................................................................................................................................ 8-4
8.9.2. Antenna Control Cable........................................................................................................................................ 8-4
8.9.3. SBS/Synchro Gyro Compass Interface Cable (Customer Furnished)......................................... 8-4
9. DRAWINGS ..................................................................................................................................................................................9-1
9.1. DAC-03 W/SCPC ANTENNA CONTROL UNIT - PART NUMBER QUICK REFERENCE................................................ 9-1
9.2. DAC-03 TRACKING ANTENNA CONTROLLER DRAWINGS ............................................................................................... 9-1

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Introduction

1. Introduction
This manual describes the Sea Tel Model DAC-03 shipboard Tracking Antenna Control Unit (ACU). System
information, installation, setup, operating instructions, functional testing and maintenance for the ACU are also
contained herein.
This ACU allows you to control the antenna that it is connected to. It also allows you to connect your Gyro
Compass to provide heading input to the system for accurate targeting of satellites.

1.1. Characteristics
The Antenna Control Unit (ACU) communicates via an RS422 serial data link with the Pedestal Control Unit
(PCU) located on the antenna. For unlimited azimuth pedestals, the RS422 link is coupled to the PCU via RF
Multiplexers and is conducted across one of the ADE/BDE coaxial cables. The Pedestal Control Unit
stabilizes the antenna against the ship's roll, pitch, and turning motions. The ACU is the operator interface
to the PCU and provides the user with a choice of positioning commands to point the antenna, search
commands to find the satellite signal and tracking functions to maintain optimum pointing.

1.2. DAC-03 Functional Description

The DAC-03 is housed in a standard 19-inch rack mount enclosure. The front panel contains a row of
function keys used to select the desired information to be displayed and an array of numeric data entry keys
for changing parameters or commanding the antenna functions. Data is displayed on a bright 40 character
Vacuum Fluorescent display making it easy to read in all ambient light conditions. The DAC-03 can be
mounted on chassis slides allowing easy access to all internal electronics. All external connections are
brought out through three D-Subminiature connectors mounted on the rear panel. Flexible ribbon cable
extends these connections to a terminal-mounting strip mounted on the rear of the rack enclosure
separating the ship wiring from the Antenna Control Unit.
The DAC-03 uses a shipboard gyrocompass as the long-term azimuth reference. It accepts gyro compass
input from Step-By-Step OR 1:1, 36:1, 90:1 or 360:1 Synchro OR NMEA serial interface.
The DAC-03 automatically calculates the Elevation, Azimuth and Polarization pointing angles based on the
ships Latitude, Longitude and the desired Satellite Longitude position. A programmable pattern search will
automatically scan the area for a desired satellite if no signal is found. These two features make locating a
new satellite very easy.
A serial communications Monitor and Control (M&C) interface allows external control of the DAC-03 from a
PC, ASCII terminal, or telephone modem. This interface can also be used to update the ships Latitude and
Longitude information from a GPS or update heading from a gyro using the NMEA interface standard.
The DAC-03 requires satellite signal input to its internal Satellite ID Tracking Receiver to keep the antenna
peaked on satellite. This internal receiver is a DVB compliant DSS compatible Satellite Identification
receiver. Its input allows full coverage wide L-Band (950 to 2150 MHz) for tracking video transponders in all
TVRO satellites and may be set to Single Channel Per Carrier (SCPC), or Narrow Band IF (NBIF) mode to
allow tracking an L-BAND satellite beacon or narrow band data carrier.

1.3. Keyboard Entry

The keyboard entry and operation is very simple and straightforward. Pressing any of the 4 function keys
located below the VF display, enables the display of all the information associated with that function.
Please refer to the Operation section of this manual for more information.

1.4. Status LEDS

There are 4 status indicator LEDs on the front panel. They give the operator a continuous display of the
major operating states of the Antenna Control Unit. Please refer to the Operation section of this manual for
the function of each LED.

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Introduction DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

1.5. General Description of system

The ACU has been designed and manufactured so as to be inherently reliable, easy to maintain, and simple
to operate. Except for start-ups, or when changing to operate with different transponders or satellites, the
equipment essentially permits unattended operation.
This Antenna Control Unit will be connected to an Antenna and other equipment to form a system. The
system consists of two major groups of equipment; an above-decks group and a below-decks group. Each
group is comprised of, but not limited to, the items listed below. All equipment comprising the Above Decks
is incorporated inside the radome assembly and is integrated into a single operational entity. For inputs, this
system requires only an unobstructed line-of-sight view to the satellite, Gyro Compass input and AC
electrical power.
The following text provides a basic functional overview of the system components and component
interconnection as referred to in the System Block Diagram(s) for your model antenna.
Television Receive Only (TVRO) Systems are comprised of two major sections: The Above-Decks
Equipment (ADE) is comprised of the Sea Tel antenna & radome assembly which is mounted outside, on an
upper deck location chosen for best satellite reception. The Below-Decks Equipment (BDE) includes the
Antenna Control Unit and will have satellite receiver(s), TV set(s) and all other ancillary equipment that is
mounted in various locations throughout the interior of the ship.
Transmit/Receive (TXRX) Systems are also comprised of two major sections: The Above-Decks
Equipment (ADE) is comprised of the Sea Tel antenna & radome assembly which is mounted outside, on an
upper deck location chosen for best satellite reception. The Antenna inside the radome has Transmit &
Receive RF equipment mounted on it. The Below-Decks Equipment (BDE) includes the Antenna Control
Unit and will have satellite modem, Multiplexer and all other ancillary communications equipment that is
mounted in various locations throughout the interior of the ship.
For more information refer to the Basic System Information section of this manual, to your Antenna manual
and to the other manuals for equipment which was included in your system.

1.6. General scope of this manual

This manual describes this Sea Tel Antenna Control Unit, its’ operation and installation. Refer to the
manual(s) provided with your Antenna Pedestal and any other Below Decks Equipment for installation and
operating instructions for those equipments.

1.7. Quick Overview of contents

The information in this manual is organized into chapters. Operation, basic system information, installation,
setup, functional testing, maintenance, specifications and drawings relating to this ACU are all contained in
this manual

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Operation

2. Operation
Operation of your system is accomplished from the Antenna Control Unit (ACU). There is no Operation of the
Radome or Antenna Pedestal, other than from the ACU.
When power is turned ON, the ACU Display will initially show “SEA TEL INC - MASTER” and the ACU software
version (ie DAC-03 VER 4.13 ). 10 seconds later, the display will switch to “SEA TEL INC - REMOTE” and
“INITIALIZING”, until the Pedestal Control Unit (PCU) completes initialization of the antenna pedestal. When
initialization is completed the PCU will report its Model & Software version (ie 9797A VER 1.51 ). Initialization
takes approximately two minutes.

2.1. Quick Start Operation

If your system has been set up correctly, is using factory default parameters and the ship has not moved
since the system was used last … Quick start operation of the system from a cold start involves the following
steps.
1. Turn on the AC power switches for the Antenna Pedestal, Antenna Control Unit (ACU) and other
Below Decks Equipment.
2. Press SHIP to check the Latitude, Longitude and Heading values. Latitude and Longitude should still
be correct, but may be updated if necessary. Heading in most cases will be 000.0 and you will have
to enter the initial value of the ships current heading. Press SHIP 3 more times to select ship's
heading (HDG) entry mode. Use the NUMBER keys to enter the current ships heading and press
ENTER. Entry of ships heading is not required when your system is connected to a 1:1 Synchro or
NMEA 0183 Heading Gyro Compass output.
3. You may wish to press SAT to view (or change) the Satellite longitude and the tracking receiver
tuning information OR press ANTENNA to monitor the antenna position information during
normal operation.
When Initialization is completed the ACU, target the desired satellite (SAT), the Search LED will flash while
the antenna is moving to the targeted AZ & EL position, then;
A. If no signal is found: The Tracking LED will flash for a short period of time (SEARCH DELAY) followed
by the Search LED coming ON. The ACU will automatically set the tracking threshold and move the antenna
in a spiral SEARCH pattern. The search movement will stop when the ACU receives a signal (AGC) value that
is greater than the threshold value. Tracking will take over (Tracking LED ON) and automatically peak the
antenna position for highest receive signal level from the satellite which has been acquired.
B. If a satellite signal is found: The ACU will be receiving a signal (AGC) value that is greater than the
threshold value. Tracking will take over (Tracking LED ON) and automatically peak the antenna position for
highest receive signal level from the satellite which has been acquired.
Upon completion of the above, the system will continue to operate automatically indefinitely or until:
AC power to the system is interrupted OR The satellite signal is blocked OR The ship sails into an area of
insufficient satellite signal level.

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Operation DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

2.2. Front Panel Layout

2.3. Basic Keyboard Entry

Keyboard operation is very simple and straightforward. Pressing any of the 4 main menu function keys
located below the display, enables the display of all the information associated with that function. Pressing
the same function key again, or pressing the ENTER key, enables the first display/entry sub-menu.
Subsequent depressions the same function key, or the ENTER key, cycle through the other display/entry
sub-menus. A selected display can be overwritten by pressing the desired NUMBER keys or it can be
incremented and decremented with the UP/DOWN arrow keys. Pressing the DECIMAL POINT allows
fractional entries to be made. Pressing C clears the display to correct errors. When satisfied with the entry,
press ENTER again to set your input and proceed to the next function.

2.4. Basic description of front panel keys and their functions

The basic functions of the front panel keys, display and LEDs are:
DISPLAY - 20 character x 2-line display of all menu display, entry, control and status windows.
AUX1 - Toggles Tracking ON/OFF, regardless of which displayed menu location you are currently in.
AUX2 - No current operator function.
Main Menu Display & Entry Keys:
SHIP - Accesses the SHIP menus to display, enter or edit current Ships’ Latitude, Longitude and
gyro compass Heading information.
SAT - Accesses the SAT menus to display, enter or edit current Satellite Longitude, Threshold,
SCPC Narrow Band Receiver settings and current signal level being received (AGC).
ANTENNA - Accesses the ANTENNA menus to display, enter or edit current Azimuth, Elevation &
Relative antenna position and Polarization setting. Current signal level being received (AGC) and
Conscan tracking signals are also displayed in some of the sub-menu screens.
MODE - Accesses control of Tracking band & ON/OFF selection, Searching ON/OFF selection, Error
status and Remote Auxiliary value.
NUMERIC KEY PAD - Used to key in numeric values in all entry menus.
NUMBERS - Key in numeric value of desired entry. May be used in conjunction with the Decimal
Point.
DECIMAL POINT - Used with the Numbers to enter whole and tenths of degrees or MHz & KHz
to enter tuning frequency.
C Key - Clear an incorrect numeric entry.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Operation

Special Keys -
UP Arrow - Steps the selected entry UP one increment per sequential key-press or rapidly
increments the selected entry when pressed & held. Affects all Numeric entries and is used to
toggle Tracking ON/OFF, turn Searching ON or to clear the Error display.
DOWN Arrow - Steps the selected entry DOWN one increment per sequential key-press or rapidly
increments the selected entry when pressed & held. Affects all Numeric entries and is used to
toggle Tracking Band selection, turn Searching OFF or to clear the Error display.
N/S/E/W - Toggles North/South Latitude entry, East/West Longitude entry, Tracking Receiver
Input selection and Polarization mode (depends on POL TYPE parameter setting). It is used to make
numeric entries to cause them to become negative values. When in MODE menus the N/S/E/W key
steps the display back UP to the previous sub-menu.
ENTER - Enters the value that has been keyed in.
Status LEDs
TRACKING - (Green LED)
ON indicates that the ACU is Tracking a satellite signal whose AGC value is greater than the
Threshold value. The ACU is actively issuing small azimuth & elevation position
adjustments to the antenna to optimize the signal level (AGC). If the system was
Searching, SEARCH will go OFF when TRACKING turns ON.
Blinking indicates that the satellite signal AGC value is less than the Threshold value and
the ACU is counting down “SEARCH DELAY” (seconds). If the AGC does not rise above the
Threshold before the count-down is completed, the ACU will automatically start a SEARCH
to acquire a signal that is greater than Threshold. When SEARCH is ON, TRACKING will be
OFF.
OFF indicates that Tracking is OFF. This may be due to the operator turning Tracking OFF
intentionally or that Tracking was pre-empted by SEARCH.
SEARCHING - (Green LED)
ON indicates that the ACU is Searching for a satellite signal whose AGC value is greater
than the Threshold value. When a satellite signal is found SEARCH will go OFF and
TRACKING will come ON. If an adequate satellite signal is not found during the Search,
SEARCH will blink as the antenna re-targets to the desired satellite. If an adequate satellite
signal is still not found, then TRACKING will begin flashing (count-down) until the next
SEARCH is automatically started.
Blinking indicates that the antenna is TARGETING to the calculated Azimuth & Elevation
positions of the desired satellite (SAT). When the antenna arrives at the calculated position
SEARCH will go OFF. If an adequate satellite signal is found at the targeted position
Tracking will commence. If an adequate satellite signal is not found at the targeted
position, TRACKING will begin blinking (see above) until the next SEARCH is automatically
started.
OFF indicates that SEARCH is OFF. This may be due to the operator turning Search OFF
intentionally or that Tracking has pre-empted SEARCH.
UNWRAP - (Red LED) Your system does not require UNWRAP, therefore, this LED should never be
ON.
ERROR - (Red LED)
ON indicates that one, or more, discrete system errors have occurred. Refer to MODE
information menus below to determine which error(s) have occurred.
OFF indicates that no errors have occurred.
RESET - Resets the processors inside the ACU. This does NOT reset the antenna pedestal.

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Operation DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

2.5. Display & Entry Operation Menu

The operation menus are arranged in four groups. Use the SHIP, SAT, ANTENNA and MODE keys to select
their respective operation menu. Use the ENTER key to access the sub-menu of a selected group and then
use the NSEW and ENTER keys to move up and down the sub-menu items.
In the following sections, the individual Operation menus contain explanatory text for each menu step.

2.5.1. SHIP information menus.

Main Menu Sub Menu Display Meaning

LAT 38 N LON 122 W Display of the current SHIP information.
HDG 000.0
LAT 38 N Latitude entry mode. Used to calculate
Azimuth, Elevation and Polarization for the
desired satellite position.
Latitude is updated automatically by the GPS
mounted on the antenna pedestal.
To manually update, key in numeric latitude in
decimal form. Tenths may be entered (and will be
used internally) but the display will round off to
nearest whole degree.
Press N/S/E/W to toggle North/South
hemisphere. Press ENTER to set the new latitude.
LON 122 W Longitude entry mode. Used to calculate
Azimuth, Elevation and Polarization for the
desired satellite position.
Longitude is updated automatically by the GPS
mounted on the antenna pedestal.
To manually update, key in numeric longitude in
decimal form. Tenths may be entered (and will be
used internally) but the display will round off to
nearest whole degree.
Press N/S/E/W to toggle East/West hemisphere.
Press ENTER to set the new longitude.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Operation

Heading entry mode. Used to provide “True”

HDG 000.0 000.0 Azimuth antenna position.
If the GYRO TYPE parameter is NMEA0183 data or
1:1 Synchro, you will not be able to set HDG to
any other value than it receives from the Ships
Gyro Compass. For all other acceptable Gyro
Compass input types the HDG MUST be initially
set whenever the ACU power is turned ON. Key in
the heading value of the Ships Gyro Compass and
press ENTER.
HDG display may be a single value, or left and
right values depending on the GYRO TYPE
parameter. When Left and right values are
displayed, left is the response from the pedestal
and right in the local input from the gyrocompass.
During subsequent normal operation, the HDG
value should automatically follow the Ships Gyro
Compass correctly (HDG value should agree with
the value observed on the Gyro Compass).

2.5.2. SAT information menus.

Main Menu Sub Menu Display Meaning

SAT 101 W THRS 1234 Display of the current SAT information.
INA 1100 AGC 1234
SAT 101 W Satellite Longitude entry menu. Used to
calculate antenna Elevation, Azimuth and
Polarity pointing angles.
Key in the numeric longitude of the satellite
you want to target (even if it is the same
value as is presently displayed), press
N/S/E/W to toggle the E/W hemisphere as
necessary and press ENTER.
The ACU will then calculate the Elevation,
Azimuth and Polarization that the antenna will
be driven to, based on the current SHIP
information (LAT, LON & HDG) and issue
those (AZ, EL & POL) targeting values to the
antenna. Auto-Threshold will re-set as the
antenna targets.
THRS 1234 Threshold entry mode. Default setup is
Automatic Threshold, which sets the
Threshold value to 128 counts of AGC above
the average AGC value whenever the ACU
Searches or Targets.
To manually set threshold, key in the desired
numeric value and press ENTER.

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RCVR entry mode. Tracking Receiver Input

IF 70.450 AGC 1234 Selection & Tuning.
Press N/S/E/W to toggle Input Selection
(EXT, INA, INB or IF).
IF should be selected for TXRX systems using
one of the SCPC Receivers (BNC connector on
the rear panel). Key in the numeric value of
whole MHz and press ENTER, then press
Decimal Point followed by the numeric
value of KHz and press ENTER to set the
frequency you want to use for Tracking.
[EXAMPLE: To tune to 70.450 MHz; key in
70, ENTER, then Decimal Point, 450, ENTER].
Receiver should be tuned to the same
frequency as the RXIF value of your Satellite
Modem or to a Beacon frequency. [Do NOT
tune to your TXIF frequency].
Current signal level (AGC) of the selection &
frequency will be displayed.

2.5.3. ANTENNA information menus.

Main Menu Sub Menu Display Meaning

AZ 123.4 EL 056.7 Display of the current ANTENNA information.
REL 234.5 AGC 1234
REL is a diagnostic display of the antenna
position relative to the bow of the ship, ranging
from 0-359.9, with 000.0 indicating when
antenna is pointed in-line with the bow.
The REL position of the antenna is used to set
Radiation Hazard & Blockage Mapping points
(refer to AZ LIMIT settings).

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AZ 123.4 Azimuth position/entry mode. True

# AGC 1234 Azimuth position of the antenna. Display is the
sum of ships heading (HDG) and antenna
relative (REL) position reduced to 0-359.9
degrees. To manually drive the antenna in
azimuth (assure Tracking is OFF):
Sequentially press the UP or DOWN arrow key
to step the antenna up or down in small
individual increments. OR,
Press & Hold the UP or DOWN arrow key to
slew the antenna up or down in rapid
increments. OR,
Key in the desired numeric value of Azimuth
you want to target the antenna to and press
ENTER. To target a Relative position, key in the
desired numeric value, press NSEW and then
press ENTER.
DishScan tracking signals ( # ) will appear in the
lower left of the display. Periodic 2, 4, 6 or 8 are
normal DishScan tracking signals.
Current IF signal level (AGC) is displayed to
assist you in manually peaking AZ for best signal
level.
EL 056.7 Elevation position/entry mode. Current
# AGC 1234 Elevation angle of the antenna (0-90.0). To
manually drive the antenna in elevation (assure
Tracking is OFF):
Sequentially press the UP or DOWN arrow key
to step the antenna up or down in small
individual increments. OR,
Press & Hold the UP or DOWN arrow key to
slew the antenna up or down in rapid
increments. OR,
Key in the desired numeric value of elevation
you want to target the antenna to and press
ENTER.
DishScan tracking signals ( # )will appear in the
lower left of the display. Periodic 2, 4, 6 or 8 are
normal DishScan tracking signals.
Current IF signal level (AGC) is displayed to
assist you in manually peaking EL for best signal
level.

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Polarization entry menu. Allows polarization

POL 0000 AGC 1234 adjustment if Auto-Polarization (DEFAULT) is
not being used.
POL Display may be a numeric value
representing the current polarization angle
(polang) position or ALPHA display of HORZ,
LHCP, VERT, RHCP polarization mode.
In manual polarization mode the N/S/E/W key
(selects HORZ, LHCP, VERT or RHCP) OR the
UP/DOWN arrow keys (adjust polarization
angle clockwise or counter- clockwise for fine-
tuning) depending upon the POL TYPE
parameter setting.
Current IF signal level (AGC) is displayed to
assist you in manually peaking POL for best
signal level.

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2.5.4. MODE Control & Status menus.

Main Menu Sub Menu Display Meaning

CONTROL Control – Tracking menu.
TRACKING KuHI OFF
Use the AUX1 or UP arrow key to turn Tracking
ON/OFF.
Use the DOWN arrow key (two times within 3
seconds) to toggle the BAND selection (Ku or
C/X). Then use the DOWN arrow key once to
toggle between KuHi/KuLow OR C/X. Band
selection controls the local logic output state of
SW1 output terminal on the 25 pin Terminal
Mounting Strip PCB and remote C/Ku relays on
the antenna pedestal. When KuHi or X band is
selected the SW1 output will be shorted to
ground (current sink of 0.5 amps max) to control
below decks band selection tone generators or
coax switches. When KuLo or C is selected the
SW1 output is open (floating).
If AZ Limits have been set to represent relative
position(s) of the antenna that are blocked from
receiving satellite signal (Blockage Zone) or
where transmit must be disabled to protect
people who may congregate in the location of
the ship (RF Radiation Hazard – TX/RX systems
ONLY), “BLOCKED” will appear at the end of the
second line when the antenna is within in the
described blockage/hazard zone(s) [OR is
searching or targeting]. This function controls
the logic output state of SW2 output terminal on
the 25 pin Terminal Mounting Strip PCB. When
BLOCKED the SW2 output will be shorted to
ground (current sink of 0.5 amps max) to control
below decks dual antenna coax switches or TX
inhibit control to a satellite modem for radiation
hazard control or TX mute for FCC compliance.
To test the blockage output press the 5 key,
BLOCKED will appear on the second line of the
display and the SW2 output terminal will be
shorted to ground. Press the UP arrow key to
turn the BLOCKED condition OFF and open SW2
contact to ground.
CONTROL Control – Searching menu.
SEARCH 2 OFF
Use the UP arrow key to cause a manual SEARCH
to begin (SEARCH 2 ON).
Use the DOWN arrow key to stop a search
(SEARCH 2 OFF).

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STATUS Status – Error menu.

ERROR LLLL RRRR
LLLL - Comms Error Count - indicates the
number of times that a Pedestal M&C
communication message (between the ACU and
PCU) was not received correctly. Occasional
counts are normal but more than 10 per minute
indicates a problem that needs attention (refer
to Troubleshooting section).
RRRR - Error Code - indicates the SUM of
the discrete error(s) that have occurred. It does
not indicate how many of a particular error have
occurred. Refer to the “To View Errors”
paragraph below for a complete list of the
discrete errors which could occur.
Pressing UP arrow key clears error count, status
code and extinguishes the Error LED.
STATUS Status – Remote Aux menu. Diagnostic
REMOTE AUX 0000 display of Remote auxiliary read, typically used
to indicate Temperature or EIRP readings from
the antenna.
Continuing to press MODE will not advance the
display until the correct password is entered to
allowing entry into the SETUP Parameter menus.
To access the SETUP Parameters, key in the
password “7979” and press the ENTER key

2.5.5. SETUP Parameter display and entry menus.

Access to the password protected system setup parameters is only required during installation or
repair of your antenna system. These parameters should only be changed by an authorized service
technician.
CAUTION: Improper setting of these parameters will cause your system to not to perform
properly.
Refer to the SETUP information in the Installation section of this manual.

2.6. Tracking Operation

You can toggle Tracking ON/OFF by simply pressing the AUX1 key.
Tracking optimizes the pointing of the antenna, in very fine step increments, to maximize the level of the
satellite signal being received. DishScan is the default mode of tracking.

2.6.1. DishScan Operation

This system uses a variation of Conical scanning, called DishScan, which continuously drives the
antenna in a very small diameter circle at 60 RPM. The received signal is evaluated throughout
each full circle rotation of the antenna to determine where the strongest signal level is and will issue
the appropriate Azimuth and/or Elevation steps to the antenna, as needed, 60 times per minute.
When you are in the AZIMUTH or ELEVATION entry menu, the DishScan commands (2, 4, 6 or 8)
will be visible in the lower left corner of the display. A 2 = DOWN, 4 = LEFT, 6 = RIGHT and 8 = UP.
When Tracking is turned OFF these commands indicate movement direction that is needed, but the
commands will not be issued to the antenna to actually re-position it. Tracking must be turned
ON to keep the antenna peaked on the satellite.
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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Operation

If the antenna is already perfectly pointed, the signal received (AGC) throughout each full circle will
be equal. If the dish is slightly mispointed, a portion of the circle movement will have higher signal
level than the rest of the circle. DishScan will then issue a step in Azimuth, and/or Elevation, to
move the antenna in the direction of the stronger signal. [EXAMPLE: If the dish is mispointed
slightly to the LEFT of the satellite peak; as DishScan drives the antenna through one circle rotation
it will evaluate that the signal is slightly higher to the RIGHT, therefore, a RIGHT (Azimuth UP) step
will be issued to the antenna].
The internal tracking receiver settings must be set correctly and the EL STEP SIZE, AZ STEP
SIZE and STEP INTEGRAL parameters must all be set to 0000 for DishScan to operate properly.

2.6.2. Internal Tracking Receiver settings

The internal receiver settings must be set correctly for either Tracking mode to be able to properly
peak the antenna on the desired satellite. Refer to the “Satellite” menu operation above and to the
“Selecting The Tracking Receiver Source” and “Tuning The SCPC Tracking Receiver” information
below.

2.6.3. C/X and Ku Band Selections

Band Selection must be set to the appropriate selection for Tracking to operate properly. For C, X
and Ku band systems the pre-set tracking parameters for DishScan can be changed in the
TRACKING window by pressing the DOWN arrow. The display will indicate which band is selected.
The EL STEP SIZE, AZ STEP SIZE and STEP INTEGRAL parameters will be set accordingly.
This selection also controls an External Tone Generator logic output on the Terminal Mounting Strip
AND remote C/Ku coax relays mounted on Dual C / Dual Ku Antenna systems.

2.7. Searching Operation

The ACU will initiate an automated search pattern after AGC falls below the current Threshold setting
(indicates that satellite signal has been lost). The SEARCH DELAY parameter sets the amount of delay, in
seconds, that the ACU will wait after AGC has fallen blow the threshold value before it starts a search.
Search can be initiated manually by pressing the MODE button twice to access the SEARCH sub-menu and
then press the UP arrow key (starts a search from the current antenna position). While in the SEARCH sub-
menu, pressing the DOWN arrow key will stop the current search.
Search is terminated automatically when the AGC level exceeds the threshold value and Tracking begins.
The ACU can be configured to use one of three search patterns. Each of the search patterns are described
below. Each description includes information about the settings involved in configuring the ACU to select
that particular pattern and the values that those settings would be set to, to optimize the pattern for your
antenna model and the frequency band being used.
The dimensions and timing of the search pattern are determined by the SETUP parameters SEARCH INC,
SEARCH LIMIT, SEARCH DELAY and SWEEP INC. Search is also affected by the Threshold and the
internal receiver settings under the Satellite menu.
All three search patterns are conducted in a two-axis pattern consisting of alternate movements in azimuth
and elevation or along the polarization angle. The size and direction of the movements are increased and
reversed every other time resulting in an increasing spiral pattern as shown.

2.7.1. Default Standard (Box) Search Pattern

The factory default search pattern in the ACU is a standard “box” pattern. You configure the ACU
to use this pattern by using the following settings:
SEARCH INC - set to the default value for the frequency band that your antenna model is
currently being used for (typically 10 or 20 counts).
SEARCH LIMIT – initially set to the default value. After targeting has been optimized
(refer to Ch 5 in your antenna manual), the search limit can be adjusted if desired.

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Operation DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

SEARCH DELAY – default, or any number of seconds from 1-255 that you would prefer
that the ACU wait before starting an automatic search.
SWEEP INC – default value (this parameter is not used in this search pattern).
GYRO TYPE – must NOT be set to zero.
SAT REF mode – may be ON if you are experiencing frequent, or constant, gyro read
errors (error code 0001). Must be ON if you are using NMEA Gyro input.
Target any satellite longitude value which includes even tenths digit values (ie SAT 101.0 W or SAT
101.2 W). If the desired satellite longitude includes an odd tenths digit, you must round it up, or
down, one tenth to make the tenths digit EVEN. The Antenna Control Unit calculates the Azimuth,
Elevation and Polarization values it will use to target the antenna. Initially the antenna will go to a
position that is 8 degrees above the calculated azimuth, until Azimuth, Elevation and Polarization
have had time to complete adjustment. Then the antenna will drive down to the calculated
elevation, which is the “Start” of the search pattern in the graphic below.
Then the antenna will search up in azimuth one Search Increment, search up one Search Increment
in elevation, search down two Search Increments in azimuth, search down two Search Increments
in elevation, etc until Search Limit is reached. When the end of the search pattern is reached, the
ACU will retarget the antenna to the start point shown in the graphic below.
If the desired signal is found at this position, or anywhere within the search pattern, the ACU will
terminate search and go into Tracking mode. If the desired signal is not found the ACU will wait
SEARCH DELAY seconds and then begin the search pattern again. This cycle will repeat until the
desired satellite signal is found or the operator intervenes.

2.7.2. Inclined Orbit Search Pattern

Some older satellites, in order to save fuel to keep them exactly positioned over the Equator, are in
an inclined geosynchronous orbit. The satellite remains geosynchronous but is no longer
geostationary. From a fixed observation point on Earth, it would appear to trace out a figure-eight
with lobes oriented north-southward once every twenty-four hours. The north-south excursions of
the satellite may be too far off the center point for a default box search pattern to find that satellite
at all times during the 24 hour period.
You can configure the ACU to do a special search pattern for a satellite that is in an inclined orbit by
using the following settings:
SEARCH INC - set to the default value for the frequency band that your antenna model is
currently being used for (typically 10 or 20 counts).
SEARCH LIMIT – leave this set to the default value for your antenna model.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Operation

SEARCH DELAY – default, or any number of seconds from 1-255 that you would prefer
that the ACU wait before starting an automatic search.
SWEEP INC – set to 192 if your antenna is a Series 04 or Series 06. Set to 193 if your
antenna is a Series 97, Series 00 or Series 07. This parameter sets the sweep increment
(shown in the graphic above) to be +/- 4.0 degrees above/below the satellite arc.
GYRO TYPE – must NOT be set to zero.
SAT REF mode – may be ON if you are experiencing frequent, or constant, gyro read
errors (error code 0001). Must be ON if you are using NMEA Gyro input.
Target the desired satellite longitude value but include an odd tenths digit (ie if you desired to
target inclined satellite 186.0 W you would key in SAT 186.1 W for the ACU to do an inclined
search). The Antenna Control Unit calculates the Azimuth, Elevation and Polarization values it will
use to target the antenna.
Initially the antenna will go to a calculated position that is half of SWEEP INCR degrees above, and
perpendicular to, the satellite arc (along the same angle as polarization for the desired satellite).
This position is the “Start” of the search pattern in the graphic above. Then the antenna will drive
down along the polarization angle SWEEP INCR degrees, step one Search Increment to the right
(parallel to the satellite arc), search up along the polarization angle SWEEP INCR degrees, step two
Search Increments to the left, search down, etc expanding out in the search pattern until Search
Limit is reached. When the end of the search pattern is reached, the ACU will retarget the antenna
to the calculated Azimuth and Elevation point.
If the desired signal is found at this position, or anywhere within the search pattern, the ACU will
terminate search and go into Tracking mode. If the desired signal is not found the ACU will wait
SEARCH DELAY, then target the antenna to start point shown in the graphic above and begin the
search pattern again. This cycle will repeat until the desired satellite signal is found or the operator
intervenes.

2.7.3. No Gyro Search Pattern

If the ship does not have a gyro compass to use as heading input to the Antenna Control Unit, you
may manually key in the actual heading of the vessel and then re-target the desired satellite, every
time you need to re-target a satellite, or configure the ACU to do a “No Gyro Search Pattern”.
You configure the ACU to use this pattern by using the following settings:
SEARCH INC - set to the default value for the frequency band that your antenna model is
currently being used for (typically 10 or 20 counts).
SEARCH LIMIT – leave this set to the default value.
SEARCH DELAY – default, or any number of seconds from 1-255 that you would prefer
that the ACU wait before starting an automatic search.
SWEEP INC – set to the default value for you antenna (refer to SWEEP INC paragraph in
chapter 5 of this manual and FACTORY DEFAULTS in chapter 5 of your antenna manual for
more information).
GYRO TYPE – MUST be set to zero for this search pattern.
SAT REF mode – MUST be ON for this search pattern.
Target any satellite longitude value which includes even tenths digit values (ie SAT 101.0 W or SAT
101.2 W). If the desired satellite longitude includes an odd tenths digit, you must round it up, or
down, one tenth to make the tenths digit EVEN. The Antenna Control Unit calculates the Azimuth,
Elevation and Polarization values it will use to target the antenna. However, without heading input,
the ACU cannot target a “true azimuth” position (relative to true North). It will target the antenna
to the calculated elevation and a repeatable “Start” relative azimuth position. In Series 04 antennas
this relative position will be 90 degrees away from the nearest mechanical stop. In all other
antennas it will be 000 degrees relative.
Initially the antenna will go to the “Start” relative azimuth position at the calculated elevation. Then
the antenna will search up 450 degrees in azimuth, search up one Search Increment in elevation,

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search down 450 degrees in azimuth, search down two Search Increments in elevation, etc until
Search Limit is reached. When the end of the search pattern is reached, the ACU will retarget the
antenna back to the start point shown in the graphic below.
If the desired signal is found at this position, or anywhere within the search pattern, the ACU will
terminate search and go into Tracking mode. If the desired signal is not found the ACU will wait
SEARCH DELAY seconds and then begin the search pattern again. This cycle will repeat until the
desired satellite signal is found or the operator intervenes.

2.8. Auto-Polarization Operation

Another feature of the ACU is auto-polarization. The ACU automatically calculates the required polarization
angle for the feed every 2 seconds based on ship's Latitude, Longitude and the Satellite Longitude. If the
polarization of the feed is not properly peaked, the ACU will send a command to the PCU to drive the 24V
DC motor drive on the feed to peak the polarization.
There is no other operation required when the system is in auto-polarization mode (Polang Type 72). The
system may be put into manual polarization mode for diagnostic and troubleshooting purposes (refer to
your antenna manual).

2.9. Radome Assembly Operation

When operating the system it is necessary that the radome access hatch, or door, be closed and secured in
place at all times. This prevents rain, salt water and wind from entering the radome. Water and excessive
condensation promote rust & corrosion of the antenna pedestal. Wind gusts will disturb the antenna
pointing.

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3. Basic System Information

This section provides you with some additional information about the satellites you will be using, some basics of
your satellite antenna system and other equipment within your system configuration. For more information about
you specific antenna, refer to its manual.

3.1. Satellite Basics

The satellites are in orbit at an altitude of 22,754 miles (36,619 kilometers) and are positioned directly
above the equator. Their orbital velocity matches the Earth’s rotational speed, therefore, each appears to
remain at a fixed position in the sky (as viewed from your location).
Your antenna can be used with any of the satellites in this orbit that have a strong enough receive signal
level. Your antenna is capable of being fitted with a Linear or Circular feed assembly. This feed assembly
may be designed to operate at, but not limited to, C-Band frequencies, Ku-Band frequencies or be capable
of operation in both bands. With the correct feed assembly you will be able to receive the linear or circular
signal at the specific frequency range of the desired satellite.

3.1.1. C-Band Receive Frequency (3.7-4.2GHz)

At these frequencies the signal from the satellite travels only in a straight line and is affected by
weather changes in the atmosphere. There are several conditions that can cause a temporary loss
of satellite signal, even within an area where the signal level is known to be adequate. The most
common of these normal temporary losses are blockage and rain fade. They will interrupt
services only as long as the cause of the loss persists.

3.1.2. Ku-Band Receive Frequency (10.95-12.75GHz)

At these frequencies the signal from the satellite travels only in a straight line and is affected by
weather changes in the atmosphere. There are several conditions that can cause a temporary loss
of satellite signal, even within an area where the signal level is known to be adequate. The most
common of these normal temporary losses are blockage and rain fade. They will interrupt
services only as long as the cause of the loss persists.

3.1.3. Blockage
Blockage is loss due to an object in the path of the signal from the satellite to the reflector. If an
object that is large and dense and is positioned in the path of the signal from the satellite, it will
prevent sufficient signal from arriving at the dish. Satellite signals can not bend around, or
penetrate through, these objects and the reception will be degraded or completely interrupted. The
reflector is actively driven to remain pointed at the satellite (which is generally pointed towards the
equator) so, as the ship turns a mast or raised structure of your ship may become positioned
between the satellite and the dish. Blockage may also be caused by anything located between the
radome and the satellite, which may include but not limited to, tall mountains, buildings, bridges,
cranes or other larger ships near your ship. Moving or rotating the ship to position the antenna
where it has an unobstructed view to the desired satellite will restore the antennas’ ability to receive
the satellite signal.

3.1.4. Rain Fade

Atmospheric conditions that may cause sufficient loss of signal level include rain, snow, heavy fog
and some solar activities (sun spot and flare activity). The most common of these is referred to as
“rain fade”. Rain drops in the atmosphere reduce the signal from the satellite. The heavier the rain
the higher the amount of signal loss. When the amount of loss is high enough, the antenna will not
be able to stay locked onto the satellite signal. When the amount of rain has decreased sufficiently,
the antenna will re-acquire the satellite signal. In a strong signal area, at Ku-Band rain fall of about

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Basic System Information DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

four inches per hour will cause complete loss of signal. In weaker signal areas the effects would be
more pronounced.

3.1.5. Signal level

The level of the receive signal is dependant upon how powerful the transmission is and how wide
the signal beam coverage area is. Focusing the signal into a narrower beam concentrates its energy
over a smaller geographic area, thereby increasing the signal level throughout that area of coverage.
This makes it possible for you to use a smaller antenna size to receive that satellite signal. The
antenna system must be geographically located in an area where the signal level from the satellite
meets (or exceeds) the minimum satellite signal level required for your size of antenna (refer to the
Specifications section of your antenna manual) to provide suitable reception. This limits the
number of satellites that can be used and the geographic areas where the ship can travel where the
signal level is expected to be strong enough to continue providing uninterrupted reception. When
traveling outside this minimum signal coverage area, it is normal for the system to experience an
interruption in its ability to provide the desired satellite services until entering (or re-entering) an
area of adequate signal level.

3.1.6. Satellite Footprint Charts

The focused beam(s) from the satellites are normally aimed at the major land masses where there
are large population centers. Footprint charts graphically display the signal level expected to be
received in different geographic locations within the area of coverage.
You can refer to satellite footprint charts (coverage maps) in World Satellite Almanacs or on the
Internet (www.SatCoDX.com or www.Lyngsat.com). Many satellites have their own web sites to
provide programming and footprint information. The coverage areas are intended to be a guide to
reception, however, the actual coverage area and signal level may vary. Also the signal strength is
affected by weather.
To use these footprint charts you will need to know the minimum EIRP signal level required for your
antenna (refer to the Specifications section of your antenna manual).

3.1.7. Linear Satellite polarization

Satellites may transmit their signals
in one of two different polarization
modes. The feed installed on your
antenna must be designed to
operate with linear polarized
satellite transmissions.
Circular polarized satellite
transmissions do not require
polarization adjustment to optimize
the reception.
Linear polarized satellite Figure 3-1 Satellite Signal Polarization
transmissions require periodic
adjustment of “polarization” while the ship is in transit to optimize the alignment of the LNB to the
angle of the signal from the satellite.
When you are at the same longitude as the satellite, its’ horizontal and vertical signals will be aligned
to your local horizon. When you are east or west of the satellite, the signals will appear to be
rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise from your local horizontal and vertical. Both horizontal and
vertical signals from a satellite will appear to be rotated the same amount and are always
perpendicular to each other. The amount of rotation is dependent on how far east or west you are
form the satellite and how close you are to the Equator.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Basic System Information

3.2. Antenna Basics

The following information is provided to explain some of the basic functions of the antenna:

3.2.1. Azimuth
The CW / CCW rotation of the antenna is known as Azimuth. Azimuth drive, provided by the
azimuth motor, is required during stabilization, searching, tracking, and unwrap operations of the
antenna. When the boat turns, azimuth is driven in the opposite direction to remain pointed at the
satellite. The actual azimuth pointing angle to the satellite is determined by your latitude,
longitude, Heading and the longitude of the satellite. It is important to know that in normal
operation on a satellite, or when trying to acquire a satellite, the antenna should be pointed
generally toward the equator.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the azimuth angle to the satellite will be 180 degrees true (relative to
true north) if the satellite is at the same longitude that you are on. If the satellite is east, or west, of
your longitude the azimuth will be less than, or greater than 180 degrees respectively.
When checking for blockage you can visually look over the antenna radome toward the equator to
see if any objects are in line of site between the antenna and the satellite. If you are not able to
find any satellites it may also be useful to remove the radome top to see if the dish is aimed in the
correct direction (towards the equator).

3.2.2. Elevation
The antenna can be driven in elevation from 0 degrees (horizon) to 90 degrees (zenith). Elevation
drive, provided by the elevation motor, is required during stabilization, searching and tracking
operations of the antenna. The actual elevation pointing angle to the satellite is determined by
your latitude & longitude and the longitude of the satellite. In general, the elevation angle will be
low when you are at high latitudes and will increase as you get closer to the equator.
Refer to figure 3-1 above and note that from any given latitude, the elevation will be highest when
the satellite is at the same longitude that you are on. If the satellite is east, or west, of your
longitude the elevation angle will be lower.

3.2.3. Antenna polarization

If you have a circular polarization LNB installed, you do not need to adjust the “polarization” of the
antenna.
If you have a linear polarization
LNB installed, the system should
have been adjusted properly and
set-up in Auto-Polarization mode.
Auto-Polarization makes small
polarization adjustments
periodically as the boat changes
geographic locations by a
significant amount of latitude and
longitude. It also adjusts the
polarization of the feed when
changing from one satellite to
another.
Once polarization adjustment has
been optimized, it is NOT
necessary to readjust it as long as
the boat remains in the same Figure 3-2 Circular and Linear Polarization
geographic area and stays on the
same satellite.

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3.2.4. Stabilization
The Sea Tel antennas are stabilized in all three axes of motion. Stabilization is the process of de-
coupling the ships’ motion from the antenna. Simply put, this allows the antenna to remain pointed
at the satellite while the boat turns, rolls or pitches under it. To accomplish this, the Pedestal
Control Unit (PCU), along with multiple sensors mounted on the antenna pedestal assembly senses
the motion and applies drive to the appropriate motor(s) in opposition to the sensed motion.
Azimuth (AZ), Elevation (EL) and Cross-Level (left-right tilt) are actively stabilized automatically by
the PCU as part of its normal operation.

3.2.5. Narrow Band Tracking Receivers

70 MHz or 140 MHz Single Channel Per Carrier (SCPC) Receiver - The Narrow Band SCPC
Receiver located in the Antenna Control Unit (ACU) is used to acquire, identify and track a narrow
band carrier or beacon. When properly setup, the receiver settings are saved to expedite future
acquisition of satellite signal.
When searching for the desired satellite this receiver compares the current receive signal level to
the “Threshold” level. When the received signal level, at the current frequency, exceeds the
threshold value SEARCH will suspend and TRACKING will peak the pointing of the dish to maximize
the receive signal. The system only needs adequate satellite signal level to stop searching and begin
tracking the satellite. This receiver is not able to identify the satellite it is receiving.

3.2.6. Tracking
The ACU actively optimizes the pointing of the dish for maximum signal reception. This process is
called tracking and is accomplished by continuously making small movements of the dish while
monitoring the level of the received signal. Evaluation of this information is used to continuously
make minor pointing corrections to keep the signal level “peaked” as part of normal operation.

3.3. Components of the System Configuration

The following text provides a basic functional overview of the system components and component
interconnection as referred to in the System Block Diagram for your model antenna.
Television Receive Only (TVRO) Systems are comprised of two major sections: The Above-Decks
Equipment (ADE) is comprised of the Sea Tel antenna & radome assembly which is mounted outside, on an
upper deck location chosen for best satellite reception. The Below-Decks Equipment (BDE) includes the
Antenna Control Unit and will have satellite receiver(s), TV set(s) and all other ancillary equipment that is
mounted in various locations throughout the interior of the ship.
Transmit/Receive (TXRX) Systems are also comprised of two major sections: The Above-Decks
Equipment (ADE) is comprised of the Sea Tel antenna & radome assembly which is mounted outside, on an
upper deck location chosen for best satellite reception. The Antenna inside the radome has Transmit &
Receive RF equipment mounted on it. The Below-Decks Equipment (BDE) includes the Antenna Control
Unit and will have satellite modem, Multiplexer and all other ancillary communications equipment that is
mounted in various locations throughout the interior of the ship.

3.3.1. Antenna ADE Assembly

Refer to your Antenna manual for specific information about your antenna, radome and
interconnecting cables.

3.3.2. Antenna Control Unit

The Antenna Control Unit allows the operator to control and monitor the antenna pedestal with
dedicated function buttons, LED’s and a 2 line display. The ACU and its Terminal Mounting Strip are
normally mounted in a standard 19” equipment rack. The ACU should be mounted in the front of
the equipment rack where it is easily accessible. The Terminal Mounting Strip and base multiplexer
panel are normally mounted on the rear of the equipment rack. In TVRO systems, it is
recommended that the antenna control panel be mounted near one of the Satellite Receiver
locations where you can see the television screen while you are controlling the antenna.
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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Basic System Information

The Antenna Control Unit is connected to the Antenna Pedestal (ADE), the GPS antenna and the
ships Gyro Compass.

Figure 3-3 Antenna Control Unit

3.3.3. Below Decks AC Power Supply

AC Voltage - An appropriate source of AC Voltage (110 VAC 60 Hz OR 220 VAC 50 Hz) will also
be required for all of the below decks equipment. The AC voltage source should be well regulated
and surge protected. Uninterrupted Power Supplies are frequently installed to provide power for
the below decks equipment, and in some cases it supplies the above decks equipment too. Refer to
the Specifications section of this manual for the power consumption of the ACU. Refer to the
manuals for your other below decks equipments for voltage and power consumption of each of
these devices. Total power consumption will depend on the number of components connected to
this power source.

3.3.4. Other Below Decks Equipment

Your system will include other equipment below decks to process the signal(s) from your antenna
into the services your system is configured to provide. Refer to your Antenna manual for more
information about some of the basic equipments associated with your system.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Installation

4. Installation
Below are basic steps to guide you in installing this equipment, but you may choose to complete installation steps in
a different order. Read this complete section before starting.
The following instructions describe the installation procedures for installing the DAC-03 Antenna Control Unit.
The installation of the Antenna Pedestal (ADE) is outlined in its Installation and Operation manual and may already
have been performed.

4.1. General Cautions & Warnings

CAUTION - Electrical Shock Potentials exist on the Gyro Compass output

lines. Assure that the Gyro Compass output is turned OFF when handling and
connecting wiring to the Terminal Mounting Strip.
CAUTION - Allow only an authorized dealer to install or service the your Sea
Tel System components. Unauthorized installation or service can be dangerous
and may invalidate the warranty.

4.2. Site Survey

Find the best location for the ACU and other Below Decks Equipment. Assure that each piece of equipment
is properly mounted. They should have sufficient cable to pull the equipment out of its mounting location
and disconnect the cables attached to it. There should be plenty of air space between units to allow heat to
vent off of the equipment. If the mounting location is a closed space, assure that the equipment will not be
damaged by trapped heat, install vents and/or fans to evacuate the heat. Refer to the Specifications of the
equipment installed for acceptable operating temperature.

4.3. Preparing For The Installation

Always prepare for the installation before you actually start.

4.3.1. Unpack Shipping Crates and Inspect / Inventory

Unpack the crates. Inspect everything to assure that all materials have been received and are in
good condition.

4.3.2. Preparing BDE Location

Prepare the Rack (or other location) for the ACU, Terminal Mounting Strip and base multiplexer
panel. Prepare the mounting locations for the other Below Decks Equipment throughout ship.

4.3.3. Read the Installation Information

Read the Installation section of the ACU and Antenna Pedestal manuals to be familiar with the
installation before attempting.

4.3.4. Plan The Install

Plan your installation. You may wish to follow a different order of installation steps than is outlined
in this manual.

4.3.5. The Installing Cables

Installing appropriate cables from location to location. Refer to the System Block Diagram in your
Antenna manual.

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Installation DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

4.4. Install the ACU

Install the ACU in the front of the standard 19” equipment rack or other suitable location.

4.5. Install the Terminal Mounting Strip (TMS)

Install the TMS in the rear of the standard 19” equipment rack or other suitable location.
Connect the TMS to the ACU.
1. Connect the 25 pin ribbon cable from the Terminal Mounting Strip to J3 “Ships Gyro” jack on the
rear panel of the ACU.
2. Connect the 9 pin ribbon cable (or NMEA serial cable) from the Terminal Mounting Strip to J13
“NMEA” jack on the rear panel of the ACU.

4.6. Install the Base Multiplexer Panel

If your antenna system includes a base multiplexer panel, install the panel in the rear of the standard 19”
equipment rack or other suitable location.

4.7. Terminal Mounting Strip (TMS) Connections

There are several functional connections that may be made on the TMS connectors. You may not need to
make all of these connections, but they are listed here for you to decide which ones you do need to make
during the installation. Connect the 9 pin ribbon cable from this PCB to J13 “NMEA” jack on the rear panel
of the ACU. Connect the 25 pin ribbon cable from this PCB to J3 “Gyro Compass” jack on the rear panel of
the ACU. They are:

CAUTION - Electrical Shock Potentials exist on the Gyro Compass

output lines. Assure that the Gyro Compass output is turned OFF
when handling and connecting wiring to the Terminal Mounting
Strip.

TB-1 Synchro Gyro Compass Input. Use the R1, R2, S1,S2 and S3 screw terminals to connect the
Synchro Gyro Compass to the ACU.
TB-2 Control Interface Connections.
SW2 - The Blockage/TX Mute Control output is driven by Blockage and RF Radiation Hazard functions.
This output will short to ground whenever the antenna is within the AZ LIMIT zone(s) or is Searching,
Targeting, Unwrapping or is mispointed 0.5 degrees from satellite peak. This output is commonly used to
drive:
• Dual Antenna Arbitrator coax switches in TVRO dual antenna
configurations. The coax switches select which antenna is
feeding signal to the matrix switch.
• Mute the Transmit output of the Satellite Modem used in
TX/RX antenna configurations when the antenna is positioned
where people may be harmed by the transmit power
emanating from the antenna (RF Radiation Hazard).
• Mute the Transmit output of the Satellite Modem used in
TX/RX antenna configurations when the antenna is mispointed
by 0.5 degrees, or more, and keep it muted until the antenna
has been within 0.2 degrees of peak pointing to the satellite for
a period of 5 seconds (FCC part 25.221 & 25.222 TX Mute
requirement).
SW1 - Band Selection control output. This output is used to
control below decks tone generator(s), or coax switch(s), for band
selection functions. The band selection control output is driven by the

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Installation

band selected in the MODE – TRACKING display.

• Tone generators are used to provide a 22 kHz tone, tone ON when hi band is desired and tone OFF
selects low band. The tone generators are commonly used to provide band control of an Americas
LNB.
• Coax switches might be used to select which signals are to be routed to the matrix switch.
AGC & GND - External AGC, or Modem Lock, input.
• External AGC input must be 0 to 5 Volts DC analog signal, positive going voltage proportional to
satellite signal input level and must be real-time in its response to antenna pointing.
• External Modem Lock from a satellite modem is used as a positive ID that the antenna is on the
desired satellite. This input is NOT used for Tracking purposes, it is only used for satellite
identification to acquire the correct satellite during search. To enable the external modem input
you must include a 2 in the SYSTEM TYPE parameter (If your system type is presently 76 or 77,
then change it to 78 or 79) and NID MUST be set to 0000.
• Connections - The modem lock signal connects to EXT AGC and a ground reference from the
modem connects to GND. The expected signal from the modem is 0VDC to +5VDC. Low voltage
indicates modem lock, high voltage indicates modem unlock.
NOTE - If the modem signal produces a
negative voltage, an external diode will
need to be installed across the modem
signal and ground (Cathode to modem
signal, Anode to ground). Voltages up to
+/- 15 VDC can be used with addition of a
resistor voltage divider to supply 0-5VDC
into the ACU . An example of external
components is show here.
• Testing - The input connections from the modem can be tested by selecting the external AGC
input and monitoring the displayed value. To select external AGC, set the tuning frequency to
0000. Normally, AGC readings below 2048 are considered a low condition and indicate modem
lock and AGC readings above 2048 are considered a high condition and indicate modem unlock. [If
you find the AGC reading for locked and unlocked conditions to be reversed you must add 128 to
your current SYSTEM TYPE parameter]. Turn tracking OFF when checking the external AGC inputs.
Be sure to properly retune the receiver frequency when you are finished testing the external input.
• Operation - In NORMAL operation, AGC must be above Threshold AND external MODEM Lock
input must be locked to Track the satellite. If you are tracking a satellite signal and the AGC is
above threshold (Tracking light on solid) but the external AGC signal rises above 2.5 volts for more
than 20 seconds (external MODEM input UNLOCKED) the ACU will automatically retarget the
selected satellite.
TB-3 Step-By-Step (SBS) Gyrocompass Input. Use the COM, A, B and C screw terminals to connect
the SBS Gyrocompass to the ACU. Some SBS Gyro distribution boxes have terminals which are labeled S1,
S2 & S3 instead of A, B and C.
TB-4 NMEA 9-pin PCB.
• TX+ and TX- screw terminals are used to provide GPS NMEA
GPGGA output to a Satellite Modem used with Sea Tel
Transmit/Receive (TX/RX) antennas.
• RX+ and RX- screw terminals are commonly used to connect
GPS (Latitude and Longitude) or Gyro Compass (Heading) NMEA
inputs to the ACU J-13 communications port.
• +24V and GND screw terminals are commonly used to provide
+24 VDC operating voltage to a GPS, Dual Antenna Arbitrator or
other below decks tone generators or switches.

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Installation DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

4.8. Pedestal Control Connection

Connect the Antenna Control Cable, between J1 on the rear of the ACU and the 9 pin D Sub connector on
the base multiplexer panel mounted in the rear of the rack.

4.9. AC Power To The ACU

Assure Power switch on the rear panel of the ACU is turned OFF.
Removed the “Factory Set At 220 V” yellow sticker covering the AC
receptacle. If you are not supplying 220 VAC power to the ACU, you
must extract the voltage select/fuse block from below the AC
receptacle. Rotate the voltage select/fuse block CW or CCW to select
110 VAC and re-insert it into the power module. Connect AC Power
cord to the ACU and to the AC Power outlet.

4.10. AGC Tracking Connection

Connect the IF Coax from one of the available outlets on the FSK Modem, splitter or matrix switch to “RF
IN” jack on the rear panel of the ACU.
For external AGC, connect a cable between the AGC or TM output of the master receiver or modem and the
terminals labeled “EXT AGC” and “ GND” TB2 of the Terminal Mounting Strip.

4.11. Monitor And Control Connections

The Monitor and Control port allows external control from a PC using a communications program such as
HyperTerminal. The ACU is wired as a DTE device for direct connection to another DTE device such as a
terminal or PC, a null modem cable as shown in drawing 116670 is required.

CAUTION: DC Voltage exists Aux Serial Port connectors that will damage your
computer COM port. The Monitor & Control computer connection to the ACU MUST
be a null modem cable as shown on Sea Tel drawing 116670.

Connect the null modem cable between J11 on the rear panel of the ACU and the ASCII terminal or PC
serial interface port (COM port). Set the terminal or PC to 4800 baud, 8 bits, no parity (9600 baud operation
is available on the Aux Serial Board only by installing a jumper at D1).

4.12. Install Other BDE Equipment

Install and connect the other below decks equipment as required.

4.13. Final Checks

4.13.1. Visual/Electrical inspection

Do a visual inspection of your work to assure that everything is connected properly and all
cables/wires are secured.

4.13.2. Electrical - Double check wiring connections

Double check all your connections to assure that it is safe to energize the equipment.

4.14. Power-Up
Refer to the Antenna Pedestal I&O manual to complete its installation BEFORE turning the ACU power ON.
When all equipment has been installed, turn ACU power ON. Turn Antenna Pedestal power ON. The
antenna will begin Initializing. The ACU will initially display “SEA TEL – MASTER and DAC-03 VER 3.xx”.
About 10 seconds later the display will change to “SEA TEL – REMOTE and INITIALIZING”. After

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Installation

initialization, the bottom line of the remote display will display the antenna model number and the software
version of the PCU (ie 9497A VER 1.xx).
Energize and check the other Below Decks Equipment to verify that all the equipment is operating. You will
need to assure that the ACU is setup correctly and that the antenna acquires the correct satellite before you
will be able to completely check all the satellite receivers for proper operation.

4.15. Setup
Refer to the Setup instructions in the next section of this manual to assure that the ACU settings and
parameters are set correctly.

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4-6
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Setup

5. Setup
Below are basic steps to guide you in setting up the ACU. Assure that the Antenna Pedestal (ADE) has been properly
installed.

5.1. Operator Settings

Refer to the Operation chapter of this manual to set the Ship and Satellite information.
1. Latitude and Longitude should automatically update after the GPS engine triangulates an accurate
location, but you may enter this information manually to begin.
2. If you do not have 1:1 Synchro or NMEA gyro heading input, you will have to enter the current
heading of the ship. The Gyro Compass will then keep the ACU updated as heading changes occur.
3. Enter the tracking receiver settings for the satellite you will be using. These receiver settings are
especially important.
4. If the antenna has completed initialization, you should now be able to target the desired satellite
longitude. Continue with the setup steps below to optimize the parameters for your installation.

5.2. Tracking and Band Selection Settings

Press the MODE key to display the current Tracking status display.
To toggle Tracking ON/OFF, press AUX1 or the UP arrow key.
For C, X and Ku band systems the pre-set tracking parameters are changed by selecting the appropriate band
selection in the TRACKING window by pressing the DOWN arrow. The display will indicate which band (C,
X, KuHi or KuLow) is currently selected. The ACU tracking parameters, Terminal Mounting Strip SW1 Band
Selection output AND the Antenna remote C/Ku band select relay(s) may also changed by this selection.

5.3. Default Setup Parameters

Refer to the factory default parameters table in the Setup section of your Antenna Pedestal Manual.
You may need to optimize some of these parameters. Refer to the Setup section of your Antenna Pedestal
manual and the information below to setup the ACU properly for the antenna you are connected to.
Press MODE 4 times, then key in 7979 and hit the ENTER key to access the setup parameters. The
parameters are;

5.3.1. EL TRIM
Elevation trim offset. Adjusts display to correct for antenna alignment errors or imbalances in the
antenna system. Refer to your Antenna Pedestal manual to determine the amount of trim you will
need. Once you have determined the amount of trim required, key in the number of tenths of
required trim. To increase the elevation value add the required number of tenths of degrees to the
current value of EL TRIM. To decrease the elevation value subtract the required number of tenths
of degrees from the current value of EL TRIM. To enter in a positive value, key in the desired
number of tenths and press ENTER. To enter a minus value, key in the desired number of tenths,
press the NSEW key and then press ENTER.
Continue with Azimuth trim, then re-target the satellite several times to verify that targeting is now
driving the antenna to a position that is within +/- 1.0 degrees of where the satellite actually is.

5.3.2. AZ TRIM
Azimuth trim offset. Offsets true azimuth display to compensate for installation alignment errors
when used with Ships Gyro Compass input reference. Does not affect REL azimuth reading. Refer
to your Antenna Pedestal manual to determine the amount of trim you need, if any. Once you have
determined the amount of trim required, key in the number of tenths of required trim. To increase
the azimuth value add the required number of tenths of degrees to the current value of AZ TRIM.
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Setup DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

To decrease the azimuth value subtract the required number of tenths of degrees from the current
value of AZ TRIM. To enter in a positive value, key in the desired number of tenths and press
ENTER. To enter a minus value, key in the desired number of tenths, press the NSEW key and then
press ENTER.
Re-target the satellite several times to verify that targeting is now driving the antenna to a position
that is within +/- 1.0 degrees of where the satellite actually is.

5.3.3. AUTO THRES

Sets offset of AGC tracking threshold above the average noise floor. Units are in A/D counts,
approximately 20 counts/dB. Default setting is 50-100. A setting of 0000 disables auto threshold.
When AUTO THRESHOLD is enabled, the DAC-03 automatically re-sets the AGC tracking threshold
whenever the antenna Targets (AZ, EL or SAT), Searches or Unwraps. The new AGC threshold is set
to the average signal level input (approximate background noise level) plus the AUTO THRES offset
value. The AUTO THRES parameter should be set to approximately 3 dB, OR 1/3 to ½ of the ON
satellite to OFF satellite signal level difference, ABOVE the average Noise Floor. This will usually be
around 60 counts (3 dB) for a typical antenna configuration.
EXAMPLE: If the Noise Floor off satellite is 1000 counts of AGC and Auto Threshold is set to 100,
Threshold will be set to approximately 1100 while the antenna is targeting, Searching or
Unwrapping. If you wish to change this parameter, key in the desired value and press ENTER.

5.3.4. EL STEP SIZE

Sets elevation sensitivity for DishScan Tracking Mode. Units are in pedestal step resolution. For
proper DishScan operation this parameter must be set to factory default value. If not already
set to the correct value for your antenna, key in the value and press ENTER. Must be entered twice
within 6 seconds (ie 0, ENTER, then 0, ENTER again).

5.3.5. AZ STEP SIZE

Sets azimuth sensitivity for DishScan Tracking Mode. Units are in pedestal step resolution. For
proper DishScan operation this parameter must be set to factory default value. If not already
set to the correct value for your antenna, key in the value and press ENTER. Must be entered twice
within 6 seconds (ie 0, ENTER, then 0, ENTER again).

5.3.6. STEP INTEGRAL

Sets the integration time for DishScan Tracking Mode. This parameter must be set to 0000 for
proper DishScan operation. If not already set to zero, key in 0000 and press ENTER.

5.3.7. SEARCH INC

Sets size of search pattern increment. Units are in pedestal step resolution. The suggested setting
is equal to 1/2 the 3dB beamwidth of your antenna at the frequency band you are using. Refer to
your Antenna Pedestal manual for default setting of this parameter. If you wish to change this
parameter, key in the desired value and press ENTER.

5.3.8. SEARCH LIMIT

Sets the search track-line spacing and the
overall peak to peak size of the search pattern.
Units are in pedestal step resolution. Factory
default setting provides for a large search area
to assure you are able to find the desired
satellite.
After you have optimized your Targeting (TRIM
settings above), and have verified that you are
able to accurately Target repeatably, you may
wish to reduce the size of the search LIMIT

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Setup

pattern to avoid searching out far enough to be attracted by and tracking onto a nearby (adjacent)
satellite. If you wish to change this parameter, key in the desired value and press ENTER.

5.3.9. SEARCH DELAY

Sets the time-out for automatic initiation of a search operation when the signal level (AGC) drops
below threshold. Units are in seconds. Range is 0-255 seconds. Default setting is 30 seconds. A
setting of 0 disables the automatic search initiation. If you wish to change this parameter, key in
the desired value and press ENTER.

5.3.10. SWEEP INC

This parameter should be set for the desired azimuth sweep speed of a No Gyro search or the
Sweep Increment dimension of an Inclined Orbit search (refer to the search pattern information in
paragraph 2.7).
When the GYRO TYPE parameter is 0000 the ACU is in “No Gyro” mode (no heading input is
available for the ACU). A SWEEP INC setting of 0040 = 9 degrees/second, 0060 = 13
degrees/second or 0080 = 18 degrees/second. Larger antennas should have slower speeds and
smaller antennas should have faster speeds. Refer to your antenna manual for factory default
setting for your antenna. If Gyro Type is set to 0000, you must set SWEEP INC correctly and
SATELLITE REFERENCE MODE MUST also be turned ON.
If you want the ACU to conduct an Inclined Orbit search pattern you must set SWEEP INC to 192 if
your antenna is a Series 04 or Series 06. Set to 193 if your antenna is a Series 97, Series 00 or
Series 07. This parameter sets the sweep increment dimension of the search pattern.

5.3.11. SYSTEM TYPE

Selects system options according to the following table. Add together all the desired options to
determine the proper entry. Refer to your Antenna Pedestal manual for the correct default setting
for your antenna. If you wish to change this parameter, key in the desired value (the sum of the
desired functions) and press ENTER.
128 Reverse External Modem Lock input polarity (logic hi = lock)
64 Enables LNB voltage output
32 Display Relative in the Azimuth entry display
16 Reverse blockage output logic (SW2 logic hi = blocked)
8 -- Reserved --
4 Auto SAT load after SEARCH failure
2 Enable External Modem Lock Input (logic low = lock)
1 Auto SAT load on “hot” RESET and ACU Power-Up

5.3.12. GYRO TYPE

Selects the type of gyro compass interface for ship turning compensation. 2 indicates S-B-S, or
NMEA, gyro interface. 1 to 360 indicates a 1:1, 36:1, 90:1 or 360:1 Synchro gyro interface. 362
indicates 360:1 synchro using 12bit S/D interface. If you wish to change this parameter, key in the
desired value and press ENTER.
362 for 360:1 Synchro with S/D Converter
360 for 360:1 Synchro with SBS Converter
90 for 90:1 Synchro with S/D Converter
36 for 36:1 Synchro with S/D Converter
2 for Step-By-Step gyro or NMEA gyro
1 for 1:1 Synchro with S/D Converter
0 for No Gyro linear AZ Search Mode (No Heading input
available)

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Setup DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

If Gyro Type will be set to 0000, you must set SWEEP INC correctly and SATELLITE REFERENCE
MODE MUST also be turned ON.

5.3.13. POLANG TYPE

This automatically adjusts the polarization of the feed by calculating the required polarization angle
for the feed every 2 seconds based on ship's Latitude, Longitude and the Satellite Longitude. If the
feed is not at the optimum polarization position, the ACU will send a command to the PCU to adjust
the feed. The system will function with all 24V DC motor driven feeds assemblies
Typical default setting for all 24 VDC polarization system is 0072 for Auto-Polarization mode. Set
to 0009 (Manual Polarization) for troubleshooting or polarization alignment purposes OR if you
desire to manually adjust the polarization of the feed as the ship travels.
Some common setting are listed below. If you wish to change this parameter key in the desired
value and press ENTER.
128 Indicates 2 quadrant LHCP/RHCP display
88 for 5v auto Polang with numeric display
80 for 5v auto Polang with HORZ/VERT display
72 for 24v auto Polang with numeric display
68 for Lin/Circ feed with auto Polang
64 for 24v auto Polang with HORZ/VERT display
9 for 24v manual Polang with numeric display
0 for no Polang

5.3.14. POL OFFSET

CCW 24V Polang pot position reference. Default setting is 0030. May be incremented to adjust
polarization while in Auto-Pol mode to optimize cross-pol isolation. Each increment equals one
degree of polarization rotation (0038 = +8 degrees), decrement below 30 for minus polarization
(0022 = -8 degrees). If you wish to change this parameter, key in the desired value and press
ENTER.

5.3.15. POL SCALE

90 degree 24V Polang pot motion scale factor. Leave at factory default (0090).

5.3.16. Radiation Hazard and Blockage Mapping (AZ LIMIT parameters)

The ACU can be programmed with relative azimuth sectors (zones) where blockage exists or where
transmit power would endanger personnel who are frequently in that area.
When the AZ LIMIT parameters are set to create these ZONES, up to three, several things happen
when the antenna is within one of the zones:
1. Tracking continues as long as the AGC value is greater than the Threshold value. When the
AGC value drops below Threshold the antenna will wait “Search Delay” parameter amount
of time and then re-target the satellite you targeted last (if 4 value is included in SYSTEM
TYPE). Timeout and re-target will continue until the satellite is re-acquired and tracking can
resume.
2. “BLOCKED” will be displayed in the TRACKING window wherever the antenna is inside one
of the zones.
3. A contact closure to ground (or an open if the blockage logic is reversed – See SYSTEM
TYPE 16 value) is provided on the SW2 terminal of the Terminal Mounting Strip. This
Switch output provides a “Blocked”, “RF Radiation Hazard” or “FCC TX Mute” logic output.
When the antenna exits the zone it will be on satellite, tracking and the SW2 logic contact
closure will open.
The lower and upper limits are user programmable and are stored in NVRAM within the ACU
parameter list.
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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Setup

AZ LIMIT 1 is the Lower Relative AZ limit (this is the more counter-clockwise of the two
points, even if it is numerically larger). AZ LIMIT 2 is the Upper Relative AZ limit (the more
clockwise of the two points) for pattern mapping of ZONE 1.
AZ LIMIT 3 is the Lower Relative AZ limit (CCW point) and AZ LIMIT 4 is the Upper Relative
AZ limit (CW point) for pattern mapping of ZONE 2.
AZ LIMIT 5 is the Lower Relative AZ limit (CCW point) and AZ LIMIT 6 is the Upper Relative
AZ limit (CW point) for pattern mapping of ZONE 3.

CAUTION: The Lower Relative AZ limit is the more counter-

clockwise of the two points (even if it is numerically larger) and the
Upper Relative AZ limit is the more clockwise of the two points. If
you enter the two relative points incorrectly, Tracking and Searching
will be adversely affected.

The ACU provides a contact closure to ground on the SW2 terminal of the Terminal Mounting Strip
when the antenna is pointed within any one of the blockage/hazard zones or the system is
searching, targeting, unwrapping or is mis-pointed by 0.5 degrees or more (FCC TX Mute function
for Transmit/Receive systems only). The contact closure is a transistor switch with a current sinking
capability of 0.5 Amp. Pressing the 5 key when the TRACKING window is selected can simulate a
manual BLOCKED condition to test SW2 logic output. UP arrow key is pressed to turn the simulated
blocked condition OFF.
When used as simple “BLOCKED” logic output for a single Sea Tel antenna, this output could be
used to light a remote LED and/or sound a buzzer to alert someone that the antenna is blocked, and
therefore signal is lost.
In a “Dual Antenna” installation, this logic output(s) is used to control Dual Antenna Arbitrator panel
of coax switch (or switches) to switch the source inputs to the matrix switch from Antenna “A” to
Antenna “B”, and vice versa.
When used as simple “RF Radiation Hazard” logic output for a single Sea Tel TXRX antenna, this
output could be used to suppress RF transmissions while the antenna is pointed where people
would be harmed by the transmitted microwave RF power output. The SW2 output would be
interfaced to the satellite modem to disable the TX output signal from the Satellite TXRX Modem
whenever the antenna is within the RF Radiation Hazard zone(s).
When used for “FCC TX Mute” logic output for a single Sea Tel TXRX antenna, this output is used
to suppress RF transmissions whenever the antenna is mis-pointed 0.5 degrees or more, is blocked,
searching, targeting or unwrapping. The SW2 output would be interfaced to the satellite modem to
disable/mute the TX output signal from the Satellite TXRX Modem. When the mute condition is
due to antenna mis-pointing, it will not un-mute until the pointing error of the antenna is within
0.2 degrees. The default output is contact closure to ground when the antenna is mis-pointed,
therefore provides a ground to “Mute” the satellite modem from the SW2 terminal of the Terminal
Mounting Strip. If your satellite modem requires an open to “Mute”, refer to SYSTEM TYPE
parameter 16 value to reverse the output logic from the ACU.
Programming instructions:
Determine the Relative AZ positions where blockage, or RF Radiation Hazard, exists. This may be
done by monitoring the received signal level and the REL display readings while the ship turns or by
graphing the expected blockage pattern. Elevation of the antenna in normal use also must be taken
into consideration. A Mast or other structure may cause blockage at low elevation angles, but may
not cause blockage when the antenna is at higher elevation angles where it is able to look over the
structure. Up to three zones may be mapped. Only zones which are needed should be mapped (in
AZ LIMIT pairs).
In unlimited antenna systems the Relative position of the antenna must have been calibrated by
properly setting the Home Flag Offset (HFO) value in the PCU. The HFO calibrates Relative to

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Setup DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

display 0000 when the antenna is pointed in-line with the bow of the boat/ship (parallel to the
bow).
Convert the relative readings to AZ LIMIT values by multiplying by 10. Enter the beginning of the
first blockage region as AZ LIMIT 1 and the end of the region (clockwise direction from AZ LIMIT
1) as AZ LIMIT 2 parameters in the ACU. If needed, repeat setting AZ LIMIT 3 & 4 for a second
ZONE and then AZ LIMIT 5 & 6 if a third ZONE is needed. All unneeded zone AZ LIMIT pairs
must be set to 0000.
EXAMPLE 1 - Three blockage Zones: A
ship has a Sea Tel antenna mounted on the
port side and an Inmarsat antenna mounted on
the starboard side. A mast forward, the
Inmarsat antenna to starboard and an engine
exhaust stack aft form the three zones where
satellite signal is blocked (as shown in the
graphic). In this example zone 1 is caused by
the mast, zone 2 is from the Inmarsat antenna
and zone 3 is from the stack:
ZONE 1 begins (AZ LIMIT 1) at 12
degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 2)
at 18 degrees Relative. Multiply these
Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ
LIMIT 1 value of 0120 and AZ LIMIT 2
value of 0180.
ZONE 2 begins (AZ LIMIT 3) at 82
degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 4)
at 106 degrees Relative. Multiply these
Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT 3 value of 0820 and AZ LIMIT 4 value of 1060.
ZONE 3 begins (AZ LIMIT 5) at 156 degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 6) at 172 degrees
Relative. Multiply these Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT 5 value of 1560 and AZ
LIMIT 6 value of 1720.
EXAMPLE 2 - Three blockage Zones,
Dual Antenna configuration: A ship has 2
Sea Tel antennas, “Antenna A” mounted on
the port side and “Antenna B” mounted on
the starboard side. Antenna A is designated
as the master antenna. The mast forward,
Antenna B to starboard and the engine
exhaust stack aft form the three zones where
satellite signal is blocked from Antenna A.
The SW2 logic output from Antenna A (ACU
A) and Antenna B (ACU B) are used to control
a “Dual Antenna Arbitrator” panel of coax
switches which route satellite signal from the
un-blocked antenna to the inputs of the
matrix switch. If both antennas are tracking
the same satellite, they will not both be
blocked at the same time. The logic output
will switch to provide satellite signal to the
below decks equipment from Antenna A
when it is not blocked and will switch to
provide satellite signal from Antenna B whenever Antenna A is blocked. The switches will not
change state if both antennas are blocked, or if both are on satellite.

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DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Setup

Antenna A is the same as the previous example and its ACU would be set to those AZ
LIMIT values.
Antenna B ACU would be set to:
In this example Antenna B zone 1 is caused by the stack, zone 2 is from Antenna A and zone 3 is
from the mast.
ZONE 1 begins (AZ LIMIT 1) at 188 degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 2) at 204 degrees
Relative. Multiply these Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT 1 value of 1880 and AZ
LIMIT 2 value of 2040.
ZONE 2 begins (AZ LIMIT 3) at 254 degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 4) at 278 degrees
Relative. Multiply these Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT 3 value of 2540 and AZ
LIMIT 4 value of 2780.
ZONE 3 begins (AZ LIMIT 5) at 342 degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 6) at 348 degrees
Relative. Multiply these Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT 5 value of 3420 and AZ
LIMIT 6 value of 3480.
EXAMPLE 3 - One blockage Zone: A ship
has a Sea Tel antenna mounted on the center
line of the ship. A mast is forward and an engine
exhaust stack is aft. In this example the Stack
does NOT block the satellite, only the mast
forward does. In this example zone 1 is caused
by the mast, zone 2 and zone 3 are not needed:
ZONE 1 begins (AZ LIMIT 1) at 352
degrees Relative and ends (AZ LIMIT 2)
at 8 degrees Relative. Multiply these
Relative positions by 10. Enter AZ LIMIT
1 value of 3520 and AZ LIMIT 2 value of
0080.
ZONE 2 is not needed. Enter AZ LIMIT 3
value of 0000 and AZ LIMIT 4 value of
0000.
ZONE 3 is not needed. Enter AZ LIMIT 5
value of 0000 and AZ LIMIT 6 value of
0000.

5.3.17. TX Polarity
If the NS/EW polarization toggle feature is desired this parameter must be set to 0000. To prevent
inadvertent switching of the transmit polarity, the user can lock out NS/EW toggle feature and force
the transmit polarity to be fixed horizontal or vertical with this parameter. With the feed in the
center of its polarization adjustment range, observe the transmit port polarity (vector across the
short dimension of the transmit wave-guide). Refer to your antenna manual for default settings.

5.3.18. TRACK DISP (your software may not have this setting)
This parameter sets the selections that the user will see in the Tracking - Band Selection menu.
Band Selection must be set to the appropriate selection for Tracking to operate properly.
Band selection controls the local logic output state of SW1 output terminal on the Terminal
Mounting Strip PCB and remote C/Ku relays (or other switches) on the antenna pedestal.
Refer to your antenna manual for the proper default value (and the associated displayed ACU
selections, and the remote Tone/Band/Voltage controls, that will be set as the band selection is
toggled by the operator.
When the SW1 output is shorted to ground a current sink of 0.5 amps max is provided to control
below decks band selection tone generators or coax switches. When SW1 output is open it is a
floating output.
5-7
Setup DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

5.3.19. SAVE NEW PARAMETERS

Press UP arrow and ENTER to save any recent changes into the ACUs NVRAM for permanent
storage. If changes are made and not stored, they will still be effective but will be lost when power
is removed or the RESET key is pressed. Press AUX2 and CLEAR simultaneously to access this
function directly from any other menu display.

5.3.20. REMOTE COMMAND

Use to enter diagnostic commands to the PCU. Allows sending any arbitrary command to the PCU
from the Command window. All checksums and response strings are handled by the DAC-03.
Requires an understanding of the command set for the PCU being addressed. Key in ".nnn ENTER"
where nnn is the ASCII value of the command character to send. The character will appear in the
command window followed by 4 zeros. Key in the numeric command value and ENTER. The
command will be sent to the PCU. PCU response will appear in the lower display. Some of the
remote commands allow you to monitor values which are viewed in the Remote Monitor window.
Refer to the Maintenance & Troubleshooting section of your antenna manual.

5.3.21. REMOTE MONITOR

Use to monitor the results of a diagnostic command which was sent to the PCU. Allows monitoring
any status request from the PCU in the DAC-03 Monitor window. Select the REMOTE COMMAND
window and key in ".nnn ENTER" where nnn is the ASCII value of the desired status request
character. Select the REMOTE MONITOR window and the status request will be updated
approximately 5 times per second.

5.3.22. DISHSCAN
Allows you to view, or change, the DishScan ON/OFF status. Press UP arrow and ENTER to turn
DishScan ON. Press DOWN arrow and ENTER to turn DishScan OFF. If you change this remote
parameter, you must save the change using REMOTE PARAMETERS (see below).

5.3.23. SAT REF

Allows you to view, or change, the Satellite Reference Mode (SAT REF) ON/OFF status. Press UP
arrow and ENTER to turn Satellite Reference Mode ON. Press DOWN arrow and ENTER to turn
Satellite Reference Mode OFF. If you change this remote parameter, you must save the change
using REMOTE PARAMETERS (see below).

5.3.24. REMOTE TILT

Allows easy access to the tilt adjustment commands. Press UP arrow and ENTER to select Tilt
adjustment Test mode. Press 5 to center the tilt sensor adjustment. Press 4 or 6 to adjust the tilt
left or right. Press 2 or 8 to adjust the tilt forward or backward. Press DOWN arrow and ENTER to
restore normal system operation.

5.3.25. REMOTE PARAMETERS

Allows any remote parameters that have been changed (via Remote Command or Remote Tilt) to
be saved. Press UP arrow and then ENTER to save the parameters in the remote PCUs NVRAM. Any
REMOTE changes must be saved to NVRAM in the PCU, or they will be lost when power to the
antenna is cycled or remote reset command is issued.

5-8
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Functional Testing

6. Functional Testing
If not already ON, Turn ON the Power switch on the front panel of the ACU.

6.1. ACU / Antenna System Check

1. Press RESET on the ACU front panel to initialize the system. Verify the display shows "SEA TEL INC
- MASTER" and the ACU software version number. Wait 10 seconds for the display to change to
"SEA TEL INC - REMOTE" and the PCU software version number.
2. If the display shows "REMOTE INITIALIZING” wait until the antenna completes initialization and
reports the Antenna Model and PCU software version. If “REMOTE NOT RESPONDING" is displayed,
refer to the Troubleshooting Section of this manual.
3. Press the Ship, Satellite, Antenna and Status keys and verify that the menu displays change in
the correct response to the keys.

6.2. Latitude/Longitude Auto-Update check

If the system is using the GPS to update the Latitude & Longitude entries automatically, test automatic
updating by:
1. Press SHIP twice to select the Latitude entry menu. Press the 0 (zero) key on the numeric keypad
and then press ENTER. If automatic updating is working properly the Latitude value display will
return to the current ships Latitude position within a few seconds.
2. Press SHIP again to select the Longitude entry menu. Press the 0 (zero) key on the numeric keypad
and then press ENTER. If automatic updating is working properly the Longitude value display will
return to the current ships Longitude position within a few seconds.
If Latitude updates properly, this test does not need to be repeated in the Longitude menu.

6.3. Ship Heading – Gyro Compass Following Check

This verifies that the Heading display is actually following the Ships Gyro Compass.
1. Press the Ship key three time to display the Heading menu. If the boat is underway, monitor the
Heading value to verify that the display changes in the correct response to the Gyro Compass input
(Heading value should always be exactly the same as the Gyro Compass repeater value). When Left
and right values are displayed, left is the response from the pedestal and right in the local input
from the gyrocompass.
2. If the boat is NOT underway, loosen the mooring lines enough to allow the boat to turn a few
degrees at the pier. Monitoring the Heading value to verify that the display changes in the correct
response to the Gyro Compass input (Heading value should always be exactly the same as the Gyro
Compass repeater value).

6.4. Check Tracking Receiver Settings

Assure that the following Tracking Receiver operator settings are correct:
1. Frequency/MHz is tuned correctly.
2. Baud Rate/KHz is set correctly
3. Tone is set correctly for the band of the input you want from the matrix switch (TVRO Systems
only).
4. Voltage is set correctly for the polarity of the input you want from the matrix switch (TVRO
Systems only).
5. FEC is set correctly.
6. NID is set correctly for the Network ID you want to use to identify the desired satellite.

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Functional Testing DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

6.5. Azimuth & Elevation Drive

This verifies that the antenna moves in the correct response to the keys.
1. Press the Antenna key twice to display the Azimuth menu.
2. Press the AUX1 key to toggle Tracking OFF. Press the UP arrow key repeatedly and verify that the
antenna moves up in Azimuth.
3. Press the DOWN arrow key repeatedly and verify that the antenna moves down in Azimuth.
4. Press the Antenna key once to display the Elevation menu.
5. Press the UP arrow key repeatedly and verify that the antenna moves up in elevation.
6. Press the DOWN arrow key repeatedly and verify that the antenna moves down in elevation.

6.6. Four Quadrant Tracking Test

Four Quadrant Tracking Test is the best way to test tracking in DishScan tracking mode. This tests each of
the 4 quadrants (UP, DOWN, LEFT & RIGHT of peak signal AZ/EL pointing) to assure that the tracking mode
being used drives the dish back to peak satellite signal level.
1. Press AUX1 to Turn Tracking OFF. Press ANTENNA twice to select Azimuth entry menu and note
current AGC level. Press UP arrow key repeatedly until AGC falls about 100 counts, note current AZ
position (You should have moved the antenna 1/3 to ¾ of a degree depending on antenna size and
frequency band). Observe the DishScan signaling in the lower left of the display, if the system is
operating in DishScan tracking mode the signaling should be 4’s. Press AUX1 to turn tracking ON
and verify that the antenna does return to the previous AZ position and the peak AGC level.
2. Press AUX1 to Turn Tracking OFF. Press DOWN arrow key repeatedly until AGC falls about 100
counts, note current AZ position (You should have moved the antenna 1/3 to ¾ of a degree
depending on antenna size and frequency band). Observe the DishScan signaling in the lower left
of the display, if the system is operating in DishScan tracking mode the signaling should be 6’s.
Press AUX1 to turn tracking ON and verify that the antenna does return to the previous AZ position
and the peak AGC level.
3. Press AUX1 to Turn Tracking OFF. Press ANTENNA to select Elevation entry menu and note
current AGC level. Press UP arrow key repeatedly until AGC falls about 100 counts, note current EL
position (You should have moved the antenna 1/3 to ¾ of a degree depending on antenna size and
frequency band). Observe the DishScan signaling in the lower left of the display, if the system is
operating in DishScan tracking mode the signaling should be 2’s. Press AUX1 to turn tracking ON
and verify that the antenna does return to the previous EL position and the peak AGC level.
4. Press AUX1 to Turn Tracking OFF. Press ANTENNA to select Elevation entry menu and note
current AGC level. Press DOWN arrow key repeatedly until AGC falls about 100 counts, note
current EL position (You should have moved the antenna 1/3 to ¾ of a degree depending on
antenna size and frequency band). Observe the DishScan signaling in the lower left of the display, if
the system is operating in DishScan tracking mode the signaling should be 8’s. Press AUX1 to turn
tracking ON and verify that the antenna does return to the previous EL position and the peak AGC
level.

6.7. Blockage Simulation Test

Blockage output function is used to modify the behavior of Tracking and Searching when there is a known
blockage zone. The ACU provides a contact closure to ground on the SW2 terminal of the Terminal
Mounting Strip when the antenna is pointed within any one of the blockage/hazard zones or the system is
searching, targeting, unwrapping or is mis-pointed by 0.5 degrees or more (FCC TX Mute function for
Transmit/Receive systems only). The contact closure is a transistor switch with a current sinking capability
of 0.5 Amp. This logic output control signal is used for:
• When used as simple “BLOCKED” logic output for a single Sea Tel antenna, this output could be used
to light a remote LED and/or sound a buzzer to alert someone that the antenna is blocked, and
signal is lost.

6-2
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Functional Testing

• In a “Dual Antenna” installation, this logic output(s) is used to control Dual Antenna Arbitrator panel
of coax switches to switch the source inputs to the matrix switch from Antenna “A” to Antenna “B”,
and vice versa.
• When used as simple “RF Radiation Hazard” logic output for a single Sea Tel TXRX antenna, this
output could be used to suppress RF transmissions while the antenna is pointed where people
would be harmed by the transmitted microwave RF power output. The SW2 output would be
interfaced to the satellite modem to disable the TX output signal from the Satellite TXRX Modem
whenever the antenna is within the RF Radiation Hazard zone(s).
• When used for “FCC TX Mute” logic output for a single Sea Tel TXRX antenna, this output could be
used to suppress RF transmissions whenever the antenna is mis-pointed 0.5 degrees or more, is
blocked, searching, targeting or unwrapping. The SW2 output would be interfaced to the satellite
modem to disable/mute the TX output signal from the Satellite TXRX Modem. When the mute
condition is due to antenna mis-pointing, it will not un-mute until the pointing error of the
antenna is within 0.2 degrees. The default output is contact closure to ground when the antenna is
mis-pointed, therefore provides a ground to “Mute” the satellite modem on the SW2 terminal of
the Terminal Mounting Strip. If your satellite modem requires an open to “Mute”, refer to SYSTEM
TYPE parameter 16 value to reverse the output logic from the ACU.
To Test the blockage function:
1. Press the MODE key to access the Tracking menu.
2. Press the 5 key to simulate a manual BLOCKED condition to test SW2 logic output. BLOCKED will
appear in the Tracking display.
3. Verify that SW2 terminal shorts to ground (or open circuit if you have SYSTEM TYPE configured to
reverse the output logic) and that the external alarms actuate OR the Dual Antenna Arbitrator
coax switches toggle (if antenna B is not blocked) OR the Satellite Modem TX is disabled/muted.
4. Press the UP arrow key is pressed to turn the simulated blocked condition OFF. BLOCKED will
disappear from the Tracking display.
5. Verify that SW2 terminal is open circuit (or ground if you have logic reversed) and that the external
alarms deactivate OR the Satellite Modem TX is un-muted. The Dual Antenna Arbitrator coax
switches should not toggle until you manually block Antenna B ACU.

6-3
Functional Testing DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

6.8. Check ACU Parameters (your software may not have all of these settings)
Assure that the parameters are set correctly (you may wish to record them). Refer to the Antenna manual
for factory default parameters.
PARAMETER My Parameters

EL TRIM
AZ TRIM
AUTO THRES
EL STEP SIZE
AZ STEP SIZE
STEP INTEGRAL
SEARCH INC
SEARCH LIMIT
SEARCH DELAY
SWEEP INC
SYSTEM TYPE
GYRO TYPE
POL TYPE
POL OFFSET
POL SCALE
AZ LIMIT 1
AZ LIMIT 2
EL LIMIT 12
AZ LIMIT 3
AZ LIMIT 4
EL LIMIT 34
AZ LIMIT 5
AZ LIMIT 6
EL LIMIT 56
AZ LIMIT 7 / 5V OFFSET
AZ LIMIT 8 / 5V SCALE
EL LIMIT 78 / (Blank)
TX POLARITY
TRACK DISP

6-4
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Functional Testing

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

6-5
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Maintenance & Troubleshooting

7. Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Below are the common adjustments, maintenance and troubleshooting that may be required in the lifetime of your
system. Also refer to the Maintenance & Troubleshooting section of your Antenna Pedestal manual.

7.1. General Cautions & Warnings

CAUTION - Electrical Shock Potentials exist on the Gyro

Compass output lines. Assure that the Gyro Compass output is
turned OFF when handling and connecting wiring to the Terminal
Mounting Strip or the boards inside the ACU.
CAUTION - Allow only an authorized dealer to install or service your
Sea Tel System components. Unauthorized installation or service can be
dangerous and can invalidate the warranty.

7.2. Troubleshooting The ACU

The following paragraphs list the problems you might encounter when performing the functional checkout
steps in the previous section of this manual. Following the problems are suggestions of where to start
looking to solve the problem. Refer to the Drawings section of this manual and in the Antenna manual for
any/all pertinent block diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams and assembly drawings to aid in diagnosing
any type of failure.
Try pressing RESET first and then in some cases you may want to turn Power OFF for a short period of time
then turn the ACU back ON to see if that restores normal operation. Remember, with most Gyro Compass
types you MUST enter the beginning Heading value EVERY time you power-up the ACU, before you will be
able to retarget your desired satellite.
Verify that the SETUP PARAMETERS are set correctly (refer to the Setup section of this manual).

7.2.1. Display is blank

This indicates no power to the internal electronics. Assure that the front panel Power switch is ON.
Check the AC line voltage, Power Cord and internal power supply fuses. Check the cables on the
rear panel of the ACU to assure they are properly connected. One at a time disconnect (and check
display status) the cables plugged into J11 M&C, then J13 NMEA, then J3 Gyro Compass to see if
one of these cables is shorting the ACU Power. Call your dealer to report this failure and arrange for
repair service.

7.2.2. Power-up displays “REMOTE NOT RESPONDING”

This indicates a problem in the Antenna Control cable or communications modems in the ACU
and/or Antenna PCU. Check the Antenna Control Cable connections at the J1 “Antenna” jack on the
rear of the ACU and at the antenna pedestal inside the radome. Verify the RS422 signal levels and
connections. Refer to drawing 116040 "Unlimited Azimuth Interconnect Diagram" at the end of
this manual. Repair any faulty connections at the ACU or PCU to their respective multiplexer.
Using a spectrum analyzer observe the 1.1 and 1.5 MHz Pedestal M&C carrier signals on the RX IF
cable. Hold the RESET key down and observe the 1.5 MHz signal is at a steady high frequency of
1.525 MHz. Release the RESET key and the signal should occasionally be seen switching to 1.475
MHz. This indicates the Base Multiplexer is transmitting to the PCU. If the Base Multiplexer is not
transmitting, replace it. If the Base Multiplexer is still not transmitting, replace the ACU Main PCB.

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Maintenance & Troubleshooting DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

If the Base Multiplexer is transmitting, but the Pedestal Multiplexer 1.1 MHz is not present, replace
the Pedestal Multiplexer. If the Pedestal Multiplexer transmit is still not present, replace the PCU.

7.2.3. NMEA GPS Checkout

When a NMEA GPS receiver is connected to J13 or J11, the NMEA LED on the AUX SERIAL PORT
ADAPTOR (ASPA) PCB will illuminate each time a NMEA message is received. The GLL LED will
illuminate each time a GPGLL or LCGLL message is received. Observe the NMEA and GLL LED’s and
confirm they are flashing about once every 2 seconds (when the system is first powered up, the GLL
LED may not appear for several minutes while the GPS receiver is acquiring the necessary satellite
signals).
If the GLL LED is illuminated constantly, this indicates the message in not being transferred to the
Main board because the system type does not include the 8 setting.
If the DISK LED flashes but the NEMA LED does not, this indicates that no data is being received OR
the TX+ and TX- connections to pins 1 and 2 are reversed.

7.2.4. Auxiliary Serial Port Adapter (J11) Checkout

When a remote computer or terminal is connected to J11, the DISK LED will illuminate steady when
a message is being received and will extinguish when the message is transferred to the Main PCB.
To test this connection, set the remote terminal (Hyper-terminal) to 4800,N,8,1 and send an "A".
The DISK LED should illuminate. Send a Carriage Return ($0D), the DISK LED should extinguish.
Send a "V", the TAC-92 should respond with the ACU version number.

7.2.5. Check Parameters Settings

Check to assure that the parameters are set correctly (to default values, or to optimized values).

7.3. Troubleshooting Ships Gyro Compass problems

Ships Heading display does not follow ships movement and/or you are getting frequent or constant ERROR
CODE 0001. Determine the type of gyro compass that is used on the ship, assure that the GYRO TYPE
parameter is set correctly (refer to the setup section of this manual) and then proceed to the step that lists
the troubleshooting for the correct type of Gyro Compass Signal.

7.3.1. STEP-BY-STEP
1. Verify that the GYRO TYPE parameter is set correctly.
2. Observe the ERROR LED on the FRONT panel. If it is illuminated, this indicates that an error
was detected in the Step-By-Step input. Press RESET on the front panel. If the ERROR LED
illuminates again, the problem is in the 4 connections to A, B, C and COMMON.
3. Check the connections to the Terminal Mounting Strip and to the ACU.
4. Measure the voltage between COMMON and A, B, and C. Each reading should either be
near zero or 35 to 70 VDC. If all three are zero, check the repeater fuses. If some read
negative and some read positive or if one reads an intermediate values the COMMON
terminal is not properly connected.
5. If the Ship - Heading display is different from the actual Gyro heading, access the Heading
entry menu and key in the correct heading value (refer to the operation Ship menu
section). Note the reading. After the ship has turned more than one degree, compare the
new gyro heading with the reading on the display, if it has moved in the opposite direction
then reverse connections A and B. Reset the ACU, put in the correct ship's heading again
and verify that the display reading now follows the Gyro heading.

7.3.2. 1:1 SYNCHRO

Observe the ship's heading display on the ACU. Compare its movement with that of the ship. If it
does not move at all go to step 1. If it moves but in the wrong direction (even if it does not display
the correct heading) go to step 2. If it moves in the correct direction but does not display the

7-2
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Maintenance & Troubleshooting

correct heading go to step 3. The gyro compass connects to the Terminal Mounting Strip on TB3
R1, R2, S1, S2 and S3.

CAUTION - Electrical Shock Potentials exist on the Gyro

Compass output lines. Assure that the Gyro Compass
output is turned OFF when handling and connecting wiring
to the Terminal Mounting Strip.

1. The Ships Heading display does not change when the ship changes direction. Using a
multimeter read between R1 and R2. It should read 115 VAC. If it does not then a fuse is
blown at the gyro repeater or there is an open between the repeater and the ACU. Read
between S1 and S2, S2 and S3 and finally S3 and S1. They should all read between 0 and
90 VAC. The voltage level will change as the ship turns. If one reading is very close to 0
volts wait until the ship has made a major change in heading and then check voltage again.
If the reading is still very low there is a problem in the line between the gyro repeater and
the ACU or a problem in the gyro repeater itself.
2. The display changes in the direction opposite of the movement of the ship. Switch the
secondary leads S1 and S2. Caution: there is 90 VAC between them! Verify that when the
ship changes direction the display shows change in the same direction. If the direction is
correct but the heading is incorrect go to step C.
3. The ship's heading display does not indicate the correct heading. If the display is off by 60,
180 or 300 degrees, this indicates that R1 and R2 are reversed. Reverse R1 and R2 and
recheck the heading display. If the display is off by 120 or 240 degrees, this indicates that
S1, S2 and S3 are in the right order but off by one place. Note their positions and carefully
move the connections one position over (S1 to S2, S2 to S3, and S3 to S1). This action will
offset the display by 120 degrees. Check if the display now reads correctly. If not move all
three leads one more time in the same direction as last time. Verify that the ship's heading
is correct.

7.3.3. 360:1 Synchro

Observe the ship's heading display on the ACU. Compare its movement with that of the ship. If it
does not move at all go to step 1. If it moves but in the wrong direction (even if it does not display
the correct heading) go to step 2. If it moves in the correct direction but does not display the
correct heading go to step 3. The gyro compass connects to the Terminal Mounting Strip on TB3-
R1, R2, S1, S2 and S3.

CAUTION - Electrical Shock Potentials exist on the Gyro

Compass output lines. Assure that the Gyro Compass
output is turned OFF when handling and connecting wiring
to the Terminal Mounting Strip.

1. The Ships Heading display does not change when the ship changes direction. Using a
multimeter read between R1 and R2. It should read 115 VAC. If it does not then a fuse is
blown at the gyro repeater or there is an open between the repeater and the ACU. Read
between S1 and S2, S2 and S3 and finally S3 and S1. They should all read between 0 and
90 VAC. The voltage level will change as the ship turns. If one reading is very close to 0
volts wait until the ship has made a major change in heading and then check voltage again.
If the reading is still very low there is a problem in the line between the gyro repeater and
the ACU or a problem in the gyro repeater itself.
2. The display changes in the direction opposite of the movement of the ship. Switch the
secondary leads S1 and S2. Caution: there is 90 VAC between them! Verify that when the

7-3
Maintenance & Troubleshooting DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

ship changes direction the display shows change in the same direction. If the direction is
correct but the heading is incorrect go to step C.
3. If the ship's heading is different than the bridge, select the HDG function in the SHIP
display mode by pressing the SHIP key 4 times. Key in the correct heading using the
numeric keys and press ENTER.

7.4. Display Offsets / Optimizing Targeting

If the antenna does not target to within +/- 1.0 degrees of the satellite actual Elevation and Azimuth
location of the desired satellite, the EL & AZ TRIM parameters need to optimized. The is because the
targeted positions may be different than the calculated look angles due to mechanical installation or
antenna alignment offsets.
Targeting should have been optimized when the system was installed and should not need to be re-adjusted
in normal operation. However, you will need to re-evaluate the elevation trim if the antenna has been re-
balanced.
You may correct the displayed positions to optimize targeting by following the procedure described in the
Maintenance section of your antenna pedestal manual.

7.5. Pedestal Control Unit Configuration

If the power up display of the ACU says SEA TEL – REMOTE “xx97 VER 1.xx” the PCU is not configured for a
specific Series 96, 97 or 00 MODEL number. The configuration information that is unique to each pedestal
type is stored in a Non Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM) in the PCU enclosure. If the PCU is
replaced or the NVRAM in the PCU should become corrupt, the PCU must be re-configured to operate with
the pedestal it is installed on. The default configuration for the PCU is model “xx97” (or xx96, or xx00).
In this configuration the Level Cage will be driven normally but the PCU will not drive any of the three
torque motors to prevent damage to the unknown pedestal. To configure the PCU refer to the
Maintenance section of your antenna pedestal manual.

7.6. Programming Instructions Antenna Control Unit

These instructions apply to DAC-2200/2202/2302 and DAC-03 Antenna Control Units with GP32
Processors.
Electrical Hookup – DAC-2200/2202
1. Use a standard straight 9-pin serial cable
(P/N 120643 or equiv.) connected
between the ACU (M&C Port) and a PC
with an available com port.
Electrical Hookup – DAC03 with Software 4.6x
1. Ensure that a PC DAC cable (116670 or
equiv.) is connected between ACU (J11
M&C/NMEA Port) and a PC with an
available com port.
2. Obtain a Copy of the ACU .s19 file and
save in a copy in the same directory as
the ProgTerm files.

3. Click on the “ProgTerm” icon to open the

ProgTerm program.

7-4
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Programming Operation: ACU Software Upload

4. Power on ACU
5. From the CommPort menu, Select the
correct programming mode. (I.e. for a
DAC2200/2202/2302, Click the
‘DAC2200 to ACU’) to set the ProgTerm
program parameters for updating the
below decks Antenna Control Unit
(ACU). It is very important to be sure
that you have selected the correct
destination for the desired program
update (ACU or PCU) and that you have
selected the correct style of DAC
interface to the PCU (03, 2200 or direct
connection). If you select the incorrect
destination and override the warnings,
you will most certainly render your
system inoperable.

To make it easy to check the ProgTerm setup, the

selected serial interface (port and baud rate) and
the operating mode (ACU style and program
destination) are always shown in the status bar at
the bottom of the program window.
6. From the “CommPort” menu, select
“Properties”.
7. Verify the correct COM port is selected.
Select correct Maximum Speed (9600
for DAC2200/2202) and 4800 for
DAC03).
8. Press OK to confirm any changes.

9. Verify the LED on the right side of the

program is GREEN indicating the port is
open and functional. Click on the LED or
select Port Open from the Comm Port
menu to change the active state of the
port and the LED.

10. Click on the Paper Clip button and

then click on the EyeBall button in
the tool bar. This queries the Module
Status and Module Version. The
responses will be the Status and Version
of the ACU (such as “DAC 2202 VER
x.xx”). Both of these data requests must
function properly before you can
continue.

7-5
Maintenance & Troubleshooting DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

If the ACU does not respond to a status request

(Paper Clip button) the module may have been
erased by a previous action. It can still be
programmed but you need to contact the Sea Tel
service department for instructions.
11. Press ‘START’ to put the selected module
into programming mode. After 2 to 3
seconds, you should see an echo of
something like graphic to the right
0050 (Checksum of memory after serial load,
0050 for initial start)
V11 or V31 (Version number of module
bootloader)

12. Press ‘ERASE’ to clear the current Flash

program memory. The screen should
now respond ’+’ for ACU programming.
If it responds with some other characters
or the ‘+’ is not present, check to be sure
that Tracking has been turned off and
press ‘ERASE’ again. Do Not continue
until a proper response is achieved.

13. Press ‘UPLOAD’ to begin sending the new

hex file program update to the ACU
module. A dialog box will appear to allow
you to select the file to be programmed.

14. Program Terminal will send the new file

to the desired module and you will see
an “Upload” dialog box with a “Cancel”
button.

7-6
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Maintenance & Troubleshooting

For each line of hex data that is programmed

during the ACU software upload procedure
ProgTerm will display one of the following
characters:
“*” (successful programming),
“_“ (failed programming),
“!” (protected memory access)

If you see any “_” characters while

programming it means that the ports did not
get locked properly and you must stop the
upload (by pressing Cancel to abort)
immediately and restart the upload sequence.
15. If the bootload is successful, the module
will reboot, you may not see any text
after the last S9 record, but it will
respond correctly to the Paper Clip and
EyeBall tool bar button requests to
display the new versions you just loaded
in. In this case, you are done.
16. If the bootload was unsuccessful, you
will see checksum and bootloader
version displayed. In this case, repeat
the upload procedure.

7-7
Maintenance & Troubleshooting DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

7-8
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna ControllerDAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver Technical Specifications

8. DAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver Technical Specifications

The technical specifications for the DAC-03 Antenna Control Unit are:

8.1. General
Physical Dimensions: 3.5 x 19" x 14"
Mounting: 2 Unit high Rackmount
Input Voltage: 110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz (Voltage Select/Fuse Block)
Power Requirements: 100-Watts maximum
Fuses: 2 Amp 110v input, both lines fused (Voltage Select/Fuse
Block)
1 Amp 220v input, both lines fused (Voltage Select/Fuse
Block)

8.2. Front Panel

Keyboard: 4 Mode Select Keys
14 Numeric Input Keys
2 Up/Down Keys
2 Auxiliary Keys
1 Reset Key
Alphanumeric Display: 40 Character (2x20) Vacuum Fluorescent Alpha Numeric
Status Indicator Display: 4 LED enunciators

8.3. Rear Panel

Controls: Power On/Off
Voltage Select (Voltage Select/Fuse Block)
Connectors:
External AGC 37 pin female D-Subminiature
Gyro Compass input 25 pin female D-Subminiature
RS-232/422 M&C 9 pin male D-Subminiature
RS-422 PCU interface 9 pin male D-Subminiature
RF Tracking Input Type F female L Band input
AC Input Power IEC type receptacle

8.4. RS-232 Monitor and Control Interface

Communications Parameters: 4800 Baud, 8, N, 1 (May be jumpered for 9600 Baud)
Device Type DTE
Interface Protocol RS-232 or RS-422
Interface Connector DE9P (J11)

8-1
DAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver Technical SpecificationsDAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

8.5. NMEA Interface

Communications Parameters: 4800 Baud, 8, N, 1
Interface Protocol Optically isolated RS-422
Interface Connector DE9P (J11 or J13)
NMEA GPS Input Sentence: xxGLL, Typically GPGLL or LCGLL
NMEA Heading Input Sentence: xxHDx, Typically HCHDM or HCHDT

8.6. RF Tracking Input

8.6.1. Narrow Band SCPC receiver:

Frequency Range: 60 - 80 MHz (70 MHz SCPC) Narrow Tuning Range
52 - 88 MHz (70 MHz SCPC) Wide Tuning Range
110 - 170 (140 MHz SCPC)
Input Level: -90 to -30 dBm
Detection Bandwidth: 30 kHz

8.7. Terminal Mounting Strip

8.7.1. Synchro Interface:

Connectors 5 screw terminal connections
Input Voltage Level 36-110 VDC, 400 or 60 hertz
Synchro Ratios 1:1, 36:1, 90 or 180:1 and 360:1 with Synchro-Digital
converter
360:1 with Synchro-SBS converter
Impedance: 1M ohm

8.7.2. SBS Interface

Connectors 4 screw terminal connections
Input Voltage Level 20-90 VDC
Interface Opto-Isolated,
Polarity Auto switching
Ratio 6 steps per degree
Impedance: 10K ohm

8.7.3. Control Interface

8.7.3.1. External AGC
External AGC or Satellite Modem Lock Input.
Connections 2 screw terminal connections (Ext AGC and GND)
Voltage Level: 0-5 VDC
Impedance: 30K ohm
Control: Low Level (<1.25Vdc) = Modem Lock*
High Level (>1.25Vdc) = Modem Unlock*
*The logic sense of the external Satellite Modem Lock input can be reversed by adding
128 to the SYSTEM TYPE Parameter.

8-2
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna ControllerDAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver Technical Specifications

8.7.3.2. SW1 Local Band Select Output

Control local (BDE) band select switch(s) or tone generator(s).
Connections 1 screw terminal connection (SW1)
Control Level: Low Band = OPEN circuit
High Band = SHORT to ground
Controlled by MODE – TRACKING – Band Selection.
Current sink of 0.5 amps max
8.7.3.3. SW2 Blockage / TX Mute Output
Blockage output to Dual Antenna Arbitrator coax switch panel OR TX Mute output to
Satellite Modem for RF radiation hazard and/or FCC compliance.
Connections 1 screw terminal connection (SW2)
Control Level: Not Blocked or Not mispointed = OPEN circuit*
Blocked or mispointed = SHORT to ground *
Current sink of 0.5 amps max
*The logic level output can be reversed by adding 16 to the SYSTEM TYPE parameter.

8.7.4. NMEA Interface

This interface allows up to two simultaneous external GPS or NMEA 0183 compliant Heading inputs
and an echoed GPS (GPGGA) output.
Connections 4 Screw terminal connections (RX+ / RX- input and TX+/ TX-
output)

8.8. Environmental Conditions

The following requirements apply to equipment installed in weather protected locations.
Temperature 0 to 40 degrees C
Humidity Up to 100% @ 40 degrees C, Non-condensing

8-3
DAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver Technical SpecificationsDAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

8.9. Cables

8.9.1. DAC AC Power Cable

Voltage: 110 or 220 volts AC, 50/60 Hz.
Power: 100 Watts MAX for the Antenna Control Unit only

8.9.2. Antenna Control Cable

RS-422 Pedestal Interface cable
Type Shielded Twisted Pair
Number of wires 6
Wire Gauge 24 AWG or larger
Communications Parameters: 9600 Baud, 8 bits, No parity
Interface Protocol: RS-422
Interface Connector: DE-9P

8.9.3. SBS/Synchro Gyro Compass Interface Cable (Customer Furnished)

Type: Multi-conductor, Shielded
Number of wires 4 Conductors for Step-By-Step Gyro, 5 Conductors for
Synchro
Wire Gauge: 18 AWG
Insulation: 600 VAC

8-4
DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Drawings

9. Drawings
The drawings listed below are provided as a part of this manual for use as a diagnostic reference.

9.1. DAC-03 W/SCPC Antenna Control Unit - Part Number Quick Reference

Part Description Part Number

ACU Main PCB ASS'Y 113275
Aux Serial Port Adapter PCB (J-13 NMEA) 113747
Aux Serial Port Adapter with Internal Conscan PCB (J11 NMEA/M&C) 113888-1
Synchro-Digital Converter (12 Bit) 114836
Tracking Receivers :
70 MHz SCPC Receiver Standard Tuning Range 112019-1
70 MHz SCPC Receiver Wide Tuning Range 112019-2
140 MHz SCPC Receiver Standard Tuning Range 112019-3

9.2. DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller Drawings

Drawing Title
123138-83313_E System, DAC-03 w/SCPC Receiver 9-3
113106_F1 TAC-92M Chassis Wiring Diagram 9-6
116040_0 Unlimited Azimuth Interconnect Diagram 9-10
116676_A3 ACU Terminal Mounting Strip Assembly 9-11
116298_F2 Interface Cable Assembly ACU to MUX 9-13
123446_A Wiring Diagram, GPS to ACU 9-17
116670_G RS-232 Cable Assembly (PCDAC Cable) 9-18

9-1
Drawings DAC-03 Tracking Antenna Controller

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

9-2
 SINGLE LEVEL MFG BILL OF MATERIAL

FIND QTY PART NO REV DESCRIPTION REFERENCE DESIGNATOR

1 EA 120090-20 MICRO ASS'Y, CONSCAN SERIAL REF. ITEM 42

1 EA 119828 D PCB ASS'Y, GP32 ADAPTER

1 EA 120090-17 MICRO ASS'Y, 12-BIT SDC REF. ITEM 43

1 EA 120090-18 MICRO ASS'Y, NMEAH SERIAL REF. ITEM 72

0 EA 124437 4.62 SOFTWARE, DAC-03 ACU W/DVB, GP32 REF 119828

1 1 EA 112412 J2 PAN MACHINING, CHASSIS, ACU

2 1 EA 115709 B LETTERING, REAR PANEL, MULTI SERIAL
3 1 EA 108675-1 E LID MACHINING, ACU, STEEL, GOLD NOT SHOWN

4 10 EA 110941-3 B SCREW, JACK, 4-40 X 5/16

5 1 EA 112922 D5 FRONT PANEL ASS'Y, ACU
13 1 EA 120742-2 B PCB ASS'Y, ACU W/DVB, W/L-BAND SCPC
14 1 EA 112019-2 J2 PCB ASS'Y, 70 MHZ SCPC DETECTOR, WI
15 1 EA 109341 RECTIFIER, FULL WAVE BRIDGE
16 1 EA 109360-1 C CLAMP, CAPACITOR MOUNTING
17 1 EA 109356-3 CAPACITOR, 50 V, 20,000 UF
18 1 EA 108845 SCREW TYPE TERMINAL - ACU
19 1 EA 109734-35 TRANSFORMER, POWER, 36VCT
20 1 EA 112646 F3 PCB ASS'Y, DC-DC CONVERTER
21 1 EA 112587-15 A1 CABLE ASS'Y, BNC-RCA, 15 IN.
22 1 EA 117919 0 CABLE ASS'Y, SCPC INTERFACE REF. ITEM 14

23 1 EA 113133-1 B CABLE ASS'Y, AC POWER NOT SHOWN

24 1 EA 116007-2 H CABLE ASS'Y, LINE PWR IN, FILTERED IE

26 1 EA 112918-20 B1 CABLE ASS'Y, RIBBON, 20 PIN NOT SHOWN

27 1 EA 113134-3 F CABLE ASS'Y, POWER NOT SHOWN

28 1 EA 114588-106 SCREW, PAN HD, PHIL, 4-40 x 1/4, S.S.

29 1 EA 113274 C BRACKET, HEAT SINK
30 19 EA 119961-007 NUT, HEX, SMALL PATTERN, 6-32, S.S.
31 20 EA 114580-007 WASHER, FLAT, #6, S.S.
32 18 EA 114581-007 WASHER, LOCK, #6, S.S.

DAC-03 ASS'Y, W/SCPC RECEIVER, 70MHZ

PROD FAMILY EFF. DATE DRAWING NUMBER REV

SHT 1 OF 2
ELEC 19-Apr-06 123138-83313 E
 SINGLE LEVEL MFG BILL OF MATERIAL

FIND QTY PART NO REV DESCRIPTION REFERENCE DESIGNATOR

33 3 EA 121228-3072 STANDOFF, HEX, F/F, 6-32 X .25 OD X .50,

34 2 EA 114588-144 SCREW, PAN HD, PHIL, 6-32 x 1/4, S.S.
35 2 EA 114576-148 SCREW, FLAT HD, PHIL, 6-32 x 1/2 S.S.
36 6 EA 114583-005 NUT, HEX, 4-40, S.S.
37 3 EA 121228-3152 STANDOFF, HEX, F/F, 6-32 X .25 OD X 1.25
38 1 EA 108929-2 C1 POWER CORD, 110V AC
38 1 EA 109752-3 POWER CORD, 220V AC
39 2 EA 109699-2 FUSE, SLOW BLOW, 2 AMP
42 1 EA 113888-1 G1 PCB ASS'Y, INTERNAL CONSCAN, AUX SE
43 1 EA 114836 A PCB ASS'Y, S/D CONVERTER, 12 BIT
46 1 EA 110783-105 CAPACITOR, MYLAR, 100V, 1uF
47 2 EA 115697 TIE MOUNT
49 1 EA 116132 0 ISOLATION PAD, TRANSFORMER
60 1 EA 115942 C2 CABLE ASS'Y, DUAL AUX SERIAL
62 1 EA 116589-2 A CABLE ASS'Y, DUAL RESET
63 9 EA 114583-007 NUT, HEX, 6-32, S.S.
64 1 EA 113152-16 HOLE PLUG, SNAP BUTTON
65 1 EA 112707-3 WASHER, MICA
68 1 EA 117151 A LABEL, FACTORY SET AT 220V NOT SHOWN

71 1 EA 118255 0 LABEL, MADE IN USA

72 1 EA 113747 G2 PCB ASS'Y, AUX SERIAL PORT
80 1 EA 119601 A CAUTION LABEL, MICROWAVE HAZARD, (
81 1 EA 108429-3 LABEL, TERMINAL BLOCK, 1-6
82 2 EA 110959-1 DECAL, SMALL, MODEL & P/N

DAC-03 ASS'Y, W/SCPC RECEIVER, 70MHZ

PROD FAMILY EFF. DATE DRAWING NUMBER REV

SHT 2 OF 2
ELEC 19-Apr-06 123138-83313 E
 SINGLE LEVEL MFG BILL OF MATERIAL

FIND QTY PART NO REV DESCRIPTION REFERENCE DESIGNATOR

1 1 EA 112657 D MACHINING, TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP

2 1 EA 116529 C PCB ASS'Y, TERMINAL MOUNTING, 25 PIN
3 1 EA 112936 D CABLE ASS'Y, D-SUB, 25 PIN
4 1 EA 116527 A PCB ASS'Y, TERMINAL MOUNTING, 9 PIN
5 1 EA 116669-36 B CABLE ASS'Y, D-SUB, 9-PIN, 36 IN.
7 4 EA 121228-3072 STANDOFF, HEX, F/F, 6-32 X .25 OD X .50,
9 4 EA 114588-146 SCREW, PAN HD, PHIL, 6-32 x 3/8, S.S.
10 4 EA 114588-144 SCREW, PAN HD, PHIL, 6-32 x 1/4, S.S.
11 8 EA 114588-107 SCREW, PAN HD, PHIL, 4-40 x 5/16, S.S.

TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP ASS'Y, ACU

PROD FAMILY EFF. DATE DRAWING NUMBER REV

SHT 1 OF 1
ELEC 18-Apr-06 116676 A3
INTERFACE CABLE ASS'Y, ACU TO MUX, -1, -4

116298 F2
INTERFACE CABLE ASS'Y, ACU TO MUX, -2, -6, -7

116298 F2
INTERFACE CABLE ASS'Y, ACU TO MUX, -3

116298 F2
INTERFACE CABLE ASS'Y, ACU TO MUX, -5, -8

116298 F2
RS-232 CABLE ASSEMBLY

116670 G