NHB NX50 Ops 3.0

NX50 Transmitter
Operations and Maintenance

Manual
Document: NHB-NX50-OPS
Issue: 3.0 2012-11-01
Status: Standard
Nautel Limited
10089 Peggy’s Cove Road
Hackett’s Cove, NS Canada B3Z 3J4
Phone: +1.902.823.3900 or
Toll Free: +1.877.6NAUTEL (6628835) (Canada & USA only)
Fax: +1.902.823.3183
Nautel Inc.
201 Target Industrial Circle
Bangor, Maine USA 04401
Phone: +1.207.947.8200
Fax: +1.207.947.3693
Customer Service (24 hour support)

+1.877.628.8353 (Canada & USA only)
+1.902.823.5100 (International)
Email: support@nautel.com
Web: www.nautel.com
The comparisons and other information provided in this document

have been prepared in good faith based on publicly available
information. The reader is encouraged to consult the respective
manufacturer's most recent published data for verification.
© Copyright 2012 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Table of contents
Contents
Release control record vii
Description 1-1
Ac-dc power stage 1-1
Exciter stage 1-2
Control/monitor stage 1-4
RF power stage 1-5
RF output network 1-5
Operating the transmitter 2-1

Using the AUI 2-2
Home page - describing the first page 2-17
Menu page - describing transmitter operations 2-18
Viewing Transmitter Log 2-20
Instrument Panels - viewing displays 2-27
Meters page - viewing real-time meters 2-42
Presets - editing operational settings 2-48
Preset Scheduler 2-61
Status - viewing transmitter status 2-64
User Accounts 2-66
User Settings 2-71
System Settings page 2-89
Precorrection Settings page 2-97
Changeover page - changing exciter transfer settings 2-106
Factory Settings 2-107
Remote I/O page 2-116
Playlist Manager 2-121
Using the safety interlock switch 2-126
Page v
NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Table of contents
Routine maintenance 3-1

Scheduled maintenance 3-1
Replacing a damaged air filter 3-2
Performing on-air checks 3-3
Replacing the control/interface PWB battery 3-4
Inspecting lightning protection systems 3-5
Non-standard maintenance 4-1

Upgrading software 4-1
List of terms 5-1
Page vi Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual
Release control record
Issue Date Reason
3.0 2012-11-01 Release 3 of transmitter (NARA53B)
Software Release NX4.0
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page vii

Page viii Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description
Section 1: Description
Refer to the functional block diagram: Figure 1.6 on page 1-11.
This section provides a high-level description of the transmitter’s key sections. The transmitter
circuitry is subdivided into five basic stages.
• Ac-dc power stage
• Exciter stage - see page 1-2
• Control/monitor stage - see page 1-4
• RF power stage - see page 1-5
• RF output network - see page 1-5 (includes combiner and filter)
NX50 electrical schematics

Some descriptions in this section refer to electrical schematics (SD-#s) . These are located at the end
of the NX50 Troubleshooting Manual.
Redundancy
The NX50 features redundancy in all key systems:
• RF power modules
• Exciters
• Cooling fans
Ac-dc power stage

See electrical schematic SD-1. The ac/dc power supply stage contains the input power transformer
that receives the main ac input to the transmitter. It also contains the transmitter’s low voltage power
supplies and rack interface PWB. The ac/dc power supply stage also include a three-phase SCR
rectifier assembly, Hall Effect current sensor, and B+ distribution assemblies. With the exception of
the power transformer, which has its own cabinet, each cabinet in the transmitter system contains its
own ac/dc power stage components.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-1

The secondary of the power transformer is applied to the SCR rectifier assembly to create the
transmitter’s B+ voltage. The output of the rectifier assembly is fed through the Hall Effect current
sensor, which supplies a dc current signal to the rack interface PWB. The rectifier assembly output is
applied to the B+ distribution assemblies, which then provide the B+ voltage to the RF power
modules, and a B+ sample to the rack interface PWB.
One phase of the power transformer’s secondary is also used to provide a source for the low voltage
dc power supplies and an ac sample for the rack interface PWB. The low voltage power supply
outputs (+48 V, +15 V and +12 V) are distributed throughout the transmitter via the rack interface
PWB.
Ac power transformer
The NX50’s power transformer can be set to use a range of input voltages. See Section 4,
“Connecting transformer taps/load wiring” on page 4-1 in the NX50 Installation Manual.
Exciter stage
See electrical schematic SD-2 and Figure 1.1 on page 1-3. The exciter stage consists of digital AM
exciter PWBs A (A11A2) and B (A11A3), RF drive distribution PWB (A16), and PDM distribution
PWB (A17). The dual digital AM exciter PWBs provide two independent exciter sections (A and B),
which can be selected automatically or by local or remote control. The control/interface PWB acts as
an interface point for audio inputs and RF drive and PDM outputs.
Digital AM exciter PWBs

Digital AM exciter PWBs A (A11A2) and B (A11A3) accept audio or IBOC inputs from an
integrated DRM exciter or Exgine card and generate fully digital RF drive carrier frequency sources
and interphase PDM drive signals for the power amplifiers and modulators in the RF power modules.
Audio input can be applied as as analog (balanced or AES-EBU) or digital (I/Q in AES/EBU or
CMOS format). All audio inputs are digitized, as necessary, and sample rate converted. A DSP
provides initial data conditioning, including the initial filtering and interpolation of incoming audio or
digital radio data.
An FPGA generates the digital PDM signals and synthesizes the carrier frequency RF drive signal. It
also performs digital up-conversion, reverse path demodulation and downconversion and B+ voltage
compensation.
Page 1-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 1.1: Exciter Stage

Audio/
IBOC
Audio/ Inputs RF Drive (A)
IBOC/ Digital AM
PDM (A) 1-9 RF Drive 1
DRM Exciter A RF Drive
To RF Power Modules
Control/Interface
Inputs
Control/Interface
RF Drive 2 Distribution
RF Drive (B)
Digital AM PDM 1-9 PDM
Exciter B PDM (B) 1-9 Distribution
+15 V dc
-15 V dc
+5 V dc
The digital PDM component consists of nine phased PDM signals, each separated by 40 electrical
degrees. These PDM drive signals determine the transmitter output power level as well as the output
modulation level. Three of these phases, each separated by 120 electrical degrees (e.g., 1, 4 and 7), are
applied to a given RF power module. To achieve optimal harmonic cancellation, three different
phases (e.g., 2, 5 and 8) are applied to the adjacent module, and three other phases (e.g., 3, 6 and 9) are
applied to the next module.
Samples of the RF output voltage, RF output current and RF power module temperature are
monitored. If a parameter exceeds an acceptable limit, the active exciter attempts to compensate by
decreasing its output power to restore the parameter to an acceptable level.
A sample of the B+ supply voltage is monitored. A B+ compensation circuit attempts to regulate the
regulated B+ supply in order to hold the transmitter output power constant and mimimize distortion.
An inhibit PDM input is applied from the control/display PWB to inhibit the PDM drive during
certain alarm/fault conditions.
RF drive distribution
The control/interface PWB (A11A1) accepts the RF drive (+ and -) signals from the digital AM
exciter PWBs (A and B) and splits the active exciter’s RF drive signal for application to the RF drive
distribution PWB (A16). The RF drive distribution PWB splits the signal from the control/interface
PWB and buffers the individual outputs that are provided to the RF power stage.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-3

PDM distribution
The control/interface PWB (A11A1) accepts the PDM (1 through 9) signals from the digital AM
exciter PWBs (A and B) and splits the active exciter PDM signals for application to the PDM
distribution PWB (A17). The PDM distribution PWB accepts each signal from the control/interface
PWB and splits it into two (+ and -) opposite logic outputs that are provided to the RF power stage.
Control/monitor stage
See electrical schematic SD-3 and Figure 1.2 on page 1-4.
The control/monitor stage monitors critical signal samples and status/alarm signals from the exciter
stage, RF power stage, and ac/dc power stage. For example, RF power monitoring and RF power
stage status information is applied to the control/monitor stage. Based on the value and status of
each input, the control/monitor stage produces the appropriate control signals for the exciter stage
and the RF power stage to ensure the proper operation and protection of the transmitter.
All analog and digital program inputs are applied to the transmitter via the control/interface PWB for
distribution to the exciter stage.
A 17-inch, colour LCD screen mounted on the front of the control cabinet provides an advanced
user interface (AUI) for the transmitter. The AUI can be controlled by touch screen and is also
available as a flash graphic on any web-interfaced PC or handheld device via the internal NX web
server. See “Advanced user interface” on page 2-2 for detailed information on AUI functionality.
The control/interface PWB contains push-button switches that provide backup control for the RF
on/off and local/remote functions.
Figure 1.2: Control/Monitor Stage
AUI
From RF Power Stage To RF Power Stage

Control/
From Ac/Dc Power Stage Interface To Ac/Dc Power Stage
PWB
From Exciter Stage To Exciter Stage
Page 1-4 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

RF power stage
See electrical schematics SD-4, SD-5 and SD-6. The RF power stage includes all of the transmitter’s
10 kW RF power blocks. The NX50 contains 5 RF power blocks.
Each RF power block contains four RF power modules and associated relays, a fan tray, and
connections to the RF drive distribution PWB, PDM distribution PWB and rack interface PWB. Each
RF power module accepts RF drive, PDM and control voltages from the exciter stage. B+, +48 V
and +15 V dc voltages are input from the B+ distribution assembly and the rack interface PWB. The
output of each RF power module is applied to a primary winding of a series combining transformer.
The resultant combined output is applied to the RF output network.
To facilitate “on-air” servicing, each module has an associated relay that forces a contact closure
across the appropriate primary winding of the series combining transformer when an RF power
module is removed from the transmitter. When the transmitter is shut down, all relay contacts close,
isolating the RF power modules from the output network and improving their immunity to lightning.
RF output network
See electrical schematic SD-5 and Figure 1.3. The combined RF output is filtered through an RF
network consisting of two “T” networks with a shunt third harmonic trap, and then provided to the
antenna system. The RF output is monitored by an RF current probe, RF voltage probe and RF
sample probe. Samples from these probes are provided for control and monitoring purposes (see
“VSWR protection” on page 1-7).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-5

Figure 1.3: RF Output Network
RF Voltage Sample
RF 1 (+)
RF Pwr Mdl 1
A41 Voltage Probe
Parallel Capacitors
RF 1 (-) RF Out
to Antenna
L L L
A42 RF Current Probe
A44 Static Drain

RF 2 (+)
E1 Spark gap
Shunt Capacitor Bank
Shunt Capacitor Bank
RF Pwr Mdl 2
A43 Directional Coupler

Series Combining Transformer
RF 2 (-)
Forward Power
Sample
RF 3 (+)
RF Pwr Mdl 3
L Reflected Power
Sample
RF 3 (-)
RF Current Sample
RF 20 (+)
RF Pwr Mdl 20
RF 20 (-)
NOTE: The NX50 has 20 RF power modules, which are series combined.
Page 1-6 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

VSWR protection
The transmitter uses an advanced DSP based VSWR protection system. Circuitry in the RF output
network (see Figure 1.3 on page 1-6) samples the RF voltage and RF current at the input to the
harmonic filter. These current (I) and voltage (V) samples are applied to ADCs on the digital AM
exciter PWBs. The digitized I and V signals are used to calculate the impedance (Z) at the combiner
output. An FPGA performs high-speed calculations, so there is minimal response delay.
There are several types of VSWR protection, which continuously operate:
Peak reflected power from directional coupler

Fast VSWR protection set at 1.5:1 at 50 kW plus 100% peak modulation using the reflected power
sample from the directional coupler (see Figure 1.3 on page 1-6) designed to shutback PDM (reduce
power to zero) and disable RF drive in less than 300 ns.
Calculated reflected power from I and V samples

The peak reflected power calculated by the FPGA is used to detect transient faults when the reflected
power quickly increases due to arcing, lightning or short circuits. The peak reflected power limit -
based on a VSWR of 1.5:1 at rated power plus 100% peak modulation - is 16 %. If this limit is
exceeded, the transmitter’s output power instantly reduces to 0 W. This is called a Shutback (see
description below).
Shutback:
During a single shutback event (see Figure 1.4 on page 1-8), the transmitter reduces the out-
put power to 0 W, and remains in that state for 300 ms. This allows time for an arc or tran-
sient fault to clear. After 300 ms, the output power exponentially ramps up (to the last power
set point or the current ALC value, whichever is lower.
After 30 s, the transmitter returns to full power under control of the normal ALC. When a
shutback occurs, an accumulator value is set to a normalized value of 1. This value decays at
a rate of 1/60 of a second (0.0167 s) so after 60 s, the accumulator value returns to 0 and the
shutback event is no longer in memory.
Cutback:
A cutback occurs after multiple shutback events. When three shutback events occur within a
15 s period, the shutback accumulator exceeds the cutback threshold (2.5). The transmitter
responds by limiting the output power to 85% of the previous power set point or the power
at which the shutback event occurred. When multiple cutback events occur, the output
power is reduced by 85% of the current level after each event. The minimum cutback power
level is 2% of full carrier power. Further cutbacks will not decrease the power beyond this
point. When the transmitter is recovering from a cutback event, the accumulator must first
reach 0, which takes 60 s. After that, transmitter power is gradually restored to full power
according to the curve shown in Figure 1.5 on page 1-9.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-7

Figure 1.4: Shutback Event
Page 1-8 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 1.5: Cutback Recovery Time
Average reflected power foldback

If the average reflected power, calculated over a nominal 5 s period, exceeds a limit of 4% of rated
power, the output power is gradually reduced in order to maintain a reflected power that is less than
this limit. This gradual reduction in power into high VSWR allows the transmitter to continue to
operate into VSWR levels as high as 1.5:1 at full carrier power and even higher VSWR levels when the
carrier power is reduced. This VSWR protection is intended to protect against short or open circuits
when the transmitter is turned on, as well as non-transient faults such as a poorly tuned antenna
system.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-9

Page 1-10 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX Series Transmitter Block Diagram
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-11

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter
Section 2: Operating the transmitter

This section provides information about operating the NX50 transmitter:
• Using the AUI - see page 2-2
• Home page - describing the first page - see page 2-17
• Menu page - describing transmitter operations on page 2-18
• Viewing Transmitter Log - see page 2-20
• Instrument Panels - viewing displays - see page 2-27
• Meters page - viewing real-time meters - see page 2-42
• Presets - editing operational settings - see page 2-48
• Preset Scheduler - see page 2-61
• Status - viewing transmitter status - see page 2-64
• User Accounts - see page 2-66
• User Settings - see page 2-71
• System Settings page - see page 2-89
• Precorrection Settings page - see page 2-97
• Changeover page - changing exciter transfer settings - see page 2-106
• Factory Settings - see page 2-107
• Remote I/O page - see page 2-116
• Playlist Manager - see page 2-121
• Using the safety interlock switch - see page 2-126
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-1

Using the AUI

The NX50 has an advanced user interface (AUI) that is displayed on a 17-inch, colour LCD screen
mounted on the front of the control cabinet (see Figure 2.1). The AUI is controlled locally by a touch
screen or remotely using a PC and a web browser.
This section includes the following topics:
• "Logging into the AUI", on page 2-3
• "Describing the AUI layout", on page 2-8
• "Navigating from page to page", on page 2-10
• "Summarizing the AUI pages", on page 2-11
Figure 2.1: Front Panel AUI
Page 2-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Information is displayed in a series of pages (screens) that serve specific transmitter functions. The
AUI has the following configurable displays:
• Instrumentation panels (“Instrument Panels - viewing displays” on page 2-27)
• Real-time meters (“Meters page - viewing real-time meters” on page 2-42)
• Transmitter status (“Status - viewing transmitter status” on page 2-64)
• Events logs (“Viewing Transmitter Log” on page 2-20)
• Presets (“Presets - editing operational settings” on page 2-48)
• System settings (“System Settings page” on page 2-89)
• Pre-correction settings (“Precorrection Settings page” on page 2-97)
• User Accounts (“User Accounts” on page 2-66)
• Changeover (“Changeover page - changing exciter transfer settings” on page 2-106)
• User settings (“User Settings” on page 2-71)
• Remote input/output configuration (“Remote I/O page” on page 2-116)
• Scheduler (“Preset Scheduler” on page 2-61)
• Playlist (“Playlist Manager” on page 2-121)
See the complete AUI flow diagram illustrated in Figure 2.2 on page 2-5.
Logging into the AUI

The transmitter’s AUI provides a means to restrict local and remote access to transmitter control
functions to authorized users only. User accounts can be pre-defined to set access restriction from
read-only (no control) and full-administative control.
Access the AUI using a web browser as follows:
1. Configure your network settings (see “Setting up the network” on page 2-72).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-3

2. On your router or firewall software, open ports 3501 and 80 and close (restrict access to)
port 22. If you are using RDS data, open port 7005. If you are using SNMP, open port 161.
3. Enter the IP address in a web browser’s address field.
4. When properly configured, the login menu (see Figure 2.3 on page 2-7) appears. Your IP
address and any login messages appear in a box at the top, beside the logo, and the current
software version number appears along the bottom of the login window.
If the login menu does not appear, then your login may not be properly configured and you
should consult the documentation for the User Accounts page (see “User Accounts” on
page 2-66).
5. Log in to the AUI by entering the appropriate parameters in the login window.
• In the Language field, click the down-arrow to review a drop-down menu displaying the
available language options, and select one.
• In the User field, enter the username. Default is “Nautel”.
• In the Password field, enter the password. Default is blank.
NOTE: The Nautel AUI is factory configured with a default login username and password. Nautel
recommends that you change the password to improve overall system security. See “Changing the
password” on page 2-68.
• Press Submit to accept your login parameters and display the AUI Home page
(Figure 2.4 on page 2-8). Note: The opening screen (the Home page) will have the
layout from the previous login session.
NOTE: If you do not have a user account, it must be set up by an existing user with proper
permissions. See “Adding a user” on page 2-68.
6. At any time, you can access the login menu by clicking the Logout button (and then OK) at
the bottom, right-hand corner of the AUI (see Figure 2.4 on page 2-8).
NOTE: A maximum of ten remote connections may be logged in at a given time. If any connection is
idle for more than 30 minutes, that user will be logged out, opening a spot for another user to log in.
Page 2-4 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

HOME PAGE Menu (Return to)
(see page 2-17) (see page 2-18) Home
User Accounts
Create/Remove User
Presets (see page 2-66)
General
(see page 2-48)
Change Password
Analog Settings
Status Set User Type/Permissions

Digital Settings
(see page 2-64
Audio Loss
Changeover
(see page 2-106)
Factory
Settings Audio Inputs
(see page 2-107
B+ Calibration
Logs
(see page 2-20) Forward/Reflected Power User Settings Network Setup
(see page 2-71)
RF Symmetry Email Configuration
SWR Thresholds Notifications
Transmitter Type Exgine Settings
Transmitter Frequency SNMP Configuration
PDM Settings Critical Parameters
Time Setup
System
Settings Reset NTP Servers
(see page 2-89)
Upgrade Software Call Sign/ID
Exciter Clock Calibration
RF Monitor Level Remote I/O

Inputs
(see page 2-116)
Power Lockout
Outputs
Power Thresholds
Precorrection Scheduler
Settings Mag-Phase Delay (see page 2-61)
(see page 2-97
B+ Setpoint
AM-AM Correction
Playlist
AM-PM Correction Playlist
(see page 2-121)
Envelop Equalization Streams
Configurations
Exciter Synchronization
Figure 2-2: NX Transmitter AUI Flow Diagram
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-5 (2-6 blank)

Figure 2.3: AUI Login Menu

IP Address and login messages
Software version
Access the AUI locally as follows:
The transmitter’s front panel touch screen allows viewing of the AUI pages, regardless of the login
status, but you must log in and have the proper permission level to access functions that can alter
transmitter control settings.
1. Ensure the transmitter is on or apply ac power to the transmitter.
2. If the Local Autologin feature is properly configured (see "User Accounts", on page 2-66),
the AUI Home page will display without a login requirement.
3. If the Local Autologin feature is not configured, the login menu (see Figure 2.3 on page 2-7)
will appear on the touch screen.
4. A keyboard menu appears on the display when you touch the User or Password field. Enter
your User name and Password, then press Submit.
NOTE: If you do not have a user account, it must be set up by an existing user with proper
permissions. See “Adding a user” on page 2-68
5. At any time, you can access the login menu by pressing the Change User button (and then
OK) at the bottom, right-hand corner of the AUI (see Figure 2.4 on page 2-8).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-7

Describing the AUI layout

The AUI begins with the Home page (Figure 2.4) and all navigation starts from this screen.
Figure 2.4: Home Page

Forward Power Active Preset Selected
Scheduler Reflected Power Mode Meters
TOP BANNER
Same items
in all windows
TASK AREA
Displays various
panels and pages
Instrument
panels
BOTTOM
BANNER
Same items
all windows Login username Buttons to access other pages
login screen
appears as
‘Change User’
locally
The “top banner” is permanent on all AUI pages and includes the following items:
• Logo: In any AUI page, press the logo to return to the Home page.
• Date & Time: Displays the current date and time. Press Menu > User Settings to access the
Time Setup page to edit the time and date (“Time Setup” on page 2-84).
• Scheduler: Displays the on/off status of the Scheduler. Press the Scheduler button (upper
panel) to toggle the status or press Menu > Scheduler to open the Scheduler page to edit
scheduler rules (“Preset Scheduler” on page 2-61).
Page 2-8 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Transmitter: Displays information about the active preset (transmission mode, frequency,
set point, forward power and reflected power). Press Menu > Presets (bottom panel) to
open the Presets page and edit this information (“Presets - editing operational settings” on
page 2-48). The current setpoint can be edited directly by pressing in this area.
• Preset: Displays the active preset. Press this area to open the Activate Preset menu and
select the active preset.
• Exciter: Displays the active exciter (A or B), a L+R modulation meter and a meter that
displays the magnitude of the envelope with respect to the current peak power capability of
the transmitter. The current level is marked in yellow, rms level is in green and the peak level
is marked in red. Press the A or B button (upper panel) or press Menu > Changeover to
open the Changeover page and edit this information (“Changeover page - changing exciter
transfer settings” on page 2-106)
The “bottom banner” is also permanent on all AUI pages and includes the following buttons, some
of which open other menus and displays:
• RF On: Press to enable the transmitter’s RF power stage.
• RF Off: Press to disable the transmitter’s RF power stage.
• Menu: Press to open a page that reveals transmitter control options that open other pages
(“Menu page - describing transmitter operations” on page 2-18).
• Status: Press to open a page that reveals current alarms and status details (“Status - viewing
transmitter status” on page 2-64).
• Logs: Press to open a page that reveals historical alarms and status records for the
transmitter (“Viewing Transmitter Log” on page 2-20).
• Local/Remote: Press to identify which user (local or remote) controls the operational status
of the transmitter. If Local is highlighted, remote users cannot change the setting. If Remote
is highlighted, local users can still change the transmitter status.
• Change User/Log Out: Press to display a login menu. A keyboard menu appears when you
press the Username or Password field. Enter your username and password, then press
Done. If you do not have a user account, see "User Accounts", on page 2-66. The Change
User button will display as Log Out while in remote operational control.
The “task area” displays the AUI functions such as transmitter status and hardware settings:
• Instrument Panels: Display up to four panels on the screen at one time. To reveal the
instrument-panel options, press X in the upper right corner of one panel to close an existing
panel, and then press the “cog” icon to display a menu of panels (“Instrument Panels - view-
ing displays” on page 2-27).
• Meters: Displays the real-time meters that provide a system review of the transmitter
(“Meters page - viewing real-time meters” on page 2-42).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-9

Navigating from page to page

You navigate through the AUI screens from the Home page or from the Menu page (Figure 2.5).
The Home page is the first screen to appear when you login into the AUI. You can return to this page
from any AUI screen by pressing the logo (upper left corner) or by selecting Menu > Home. The
Menu page is accessed from the “bottom panel” by pressing Menu.
Figure 2.5: Home page and Menu page selection items

logo scheduler
(home page) active preset
current
exciter
(page)
meters
(pages)
1 2
3 4
HOME PAGE
instrument
panel menu
(up to four
panels)
toggle
Precorrection transmitter events Log In/Log Out

Presets status history
toggle
Home Factory settings
System Settings User accounts
Changeovers Remote I/O MENU PAGE
Scheduler User Settings

Playlist
Page 2-10 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Summarizing the AUI pages

Table 2.1 identifies the available AUI pages.
AUI Page Function See Page
Home (first page) Displays an overview of transmitter features, including 2-8

various meters and instrument panels. Choose options
and navigate to other pages.
(available via local or
remote operation)
Menu Choose options and navigate to other pages. 2-18

remote operation)
Logs View a history of transmitter events. 2-20

remote operation)
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-11

Instrument Panels Choose the instrument panel option(s). 16 options are 2-27
available. Up to four screens can appear on one page.

remote operation)
System Review Choose meters for display. 2-42

(Meters)

remote operation)
Presets Activate and edit user-defined presets. 2-48

remote operation)
Page 2-12 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Scheduler Create and edit scheduler rules. 2-61
(available via local

operation or remote
operation)
Transmitter Status View transmitter’s active faults. 2-64

remote operation)
User Accounts Set user permission rights and define user accounts. 2-66

remote operation)
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-13

User Settings Set network information, configure email and alarm 2-71
notification parameters, configure Exgine interface
information, configure SNMP information, capture
(available via local or critical parameters, set time and date, enable/
remote operation) configure NTP servers and set call sign/ID..
System Settings Reboot AUI or active exciter, perform software 2-89

upgrades, configure screen settings (local only)
calibrate exciter clock, set the RF monitor sample
(available via local or level, configure power lockouts and configure low
remote operation) forward power thresholds.
** Screen configuration
available local only
Page 2-14 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Precorrection Settings Control various critical parameter functions using the 2-97
Precorrection page.

remote operation)
Changeovers Set the main exciter and auto exciter changeover 2-106
functions..

remote operation)
Factory Settings Displays the settings for the transmitter that are set at 2-107
the factory.

remote operation)
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-15

Remote I/O Define remote digital inputs and outputs. 2-116

remote operation)
Playlist Manager Manage the audio playlist files. 2-121

remote operation)
Page 2-16 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Home page - describing the first page

The Home page (Figure 2.6) is the first screen to appear after you log into the AUI. It contains the
images that were last viewed in the AUI, from the previous login session.
You can return to the Home page, from any screen, by pressing the logo in the upper, left corner or
by pressing Menu>Home.
Figure 2.6: Home page example
The Home page layout is provided in the AUI description (see Figure 2.4 on page 2-8.).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-17

Menu page - describing transmitter operations

The Menu page displays icons that link to pages that control various transmitter operations
(Figure 2.7). Press Menu in the “bottom panel” of an AUI screen to open this window of options.
Figure 2.7: Menu Page
From this page, you can select the following operations:
• Press Home to return to the home page (“Home page - describing the first page” on page 2-
17).
• Press Presets to open screens related to presets (“Presets - editing operational settings” on
page 2-48).
• Press Factory Settings to open a window where you can view the factory settings for the
transmitter (“Factory Settings” on page 2-107).
• Press System Settings to access pages that allow you to reset the AUI or active exciter, per-
form software upgrades, calibrate exciter clock, and set power lockouts and power thresholds
(“System Settings page” on page 2-89).
Page 2-18 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Press Precorrection Settings to control various critical functions related to precorrection,

(“Precorrection Settings page” on page 2-97).
• Press User Accounts to access a page that displays a list of users with access to the AUI
and, depending on permission level, allows you to access user accounts (“User Accounts” on
page 2-66).
• Press Changeovers to access a page that allows you to set the main (active) exciter and
setup the automatic exciter changeover (“Changeover page - changing exciter transfer set-
tings” on page 2-106).
• Press User Settings to access a page that allows network configuration, email configuration
and alarm notifications, setting of Exgine parameters, SNMP configuration, capturing critical
parameters, setting date and time, enabling and configuration of NTP servers and setting call
sign (“User Settings” on page 2-71).
• Press Remote I/O to access a page that allows configuration of digital inputs and digital
outputs (“Remote I/O page” on page 2-116).
• Press Scheduler to access a page that allows you to schedule preset changes (“Preset Sched-
uler” on page 2-61).
• Press Playlist to access the built in audio player and add/manage playlists, Icecast or
Shoutcast streams.(“Playlist Manager” on page 2-121).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-19

Viewing Transmitter Log

You can view the NX50’s events log using the Log page - see Figure 2.8. This page shows a
configurable log of all transmitter events. To view the Log page, click the Log button in the bottom
banner of the AUI screen.
Figure 2.8: Log page
Selects item at top

of current page
Selects next
lower page
Scrolls up one item
Scrolls down one

item
Selects next
higher page
Selects item at
bottom of
current page
Maximum 100 items per page
Maximum 20 pages per batch (2000 items)

(use filtering to view older batches)
The main screen displays a chronological listing of events. Depending on the selections made in the
Log Manager screen (see "Managing the Log", on page 2-21), the events displayed may be filtered by
the originating device [Controller, Exciter, Rack or PM (power module)], and the time of occurrence.
A maximum of five batches (10,000 items) are stored on the AUI. Older items are discarded.
Refer to the NX50 Troubleshooting Manual to cross-reference the alarm name to possible causes and
troubleshooting tips.
Page 2-20 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

The number of log matches displayed is shown below the Log Manager button (e.g., 157 Matches
Sorted by Time of Event). You can scroll through the list using the scroll bar or the up and down
arrow buttons to the right of the scroll bar. When there are more than 100 matches in the list, a
Page #/# tab will appear to allow viewing of further listings. In this case, click on Page #/#, select
the desired page from the Select a Page window, then click OK to view that page or Cancel to
return to the Transmitter Log page. You can also scroll through the pages using the appropriate
arrow button on the right-hand side of the display (see Figure 2.8 on page 2-20). The columns in the
display indicate specific information about the event:
• Device indicates the origin device of the event (Controller, Exciter, Rack, RF Module,
etc.).
• Event indicates the event name.
• State indicates whether the event is active (red bell) or cleared (green checkmark) and in
some cases, indicates whether the RF was turned on or off (see Legend under Log
Manager, Figure 2.13 on page 2-26).
• Severity indicates how the event affects transmitter operation
–a single yellow ! indicates low severity (RF output not affected)
–a single orange ! indicates medium severity (RF output is reduced)
–two red ! indicates high severity (RF output is inhibited)].
• Time of Event indicates the time and date that the event occurred.
Managing the Log

You can manage the NX50 AUI’s events log by clicking on the Log Manager button (see Figure 2.9).
This screen provides options to perform various event monitoring operations such as filtering,
copying, deletion and statistical analysis. Click X to close this window.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-21

Figure 2.9: Log Manager options (Filter Logs shown)
Filter
You can filter transmitter events based on their origin or date by clicking the Filter Logs button in
the log manager (see Figure 2.9).
Click the Device drop-down arrow, and select the desired device type to filter events based on the
type selected. Click the OK button or the Cancel button when done.
• No selection - displays all transmitter events

• Controller - displays controller events only
• Exciter - displays applicable exciter events only
• Rack # - displays applicbale Rack # events only
• PM # - displays applicable power module # events only
Click the Select All radio button (default) to show all of the most recent events for the device type
selected. A maximum of 2000 items (in 20 pages) can be displayed per ‘batch’. Click the OK button or
the Cancel button when done.
Click the Filter by Date radio button to filter events based on a selected date and time range, and the
device type selected. Click the OK button or the Cancel button when done.
Click the Get Next Batch radio button to display the previously logged batch of events (up to 2000
items) for the device type selected. Click the OK button or the Cancel button when done.
Click the Cancel button to close this window and discard changes.
Page 2-22 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Copy
You can create a copy of all the logs in the selected list (copied to the remote user’s computer
clipboard) by clicking on the Copy Logs button in the log manager (see Figure 2.10). You can paste
the tab-delimited text copy of the logs into a text editing program such as Word, Excel, Notepad, etc.
Click OK or Cancel to close this window.
Figure 2.10: Copy Logs
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-23

Delete
You can delete all events or a selection of events by clicking on the Delete button in the log manager
(see Figure 2.11 on page 2-24).
Click the Delete All checkbox and click OK to delete all events.
Click the Delete by date checkbox to allow deletion of events that occurred prior to (Older than) a
user-specified date and time. Use the up and down arrows to select the date and time and click OK to
delete the specified events.
Click the Cancel button to close this window and discard changes.
Figure 2.11: Delete Logs
Month Day Year Hours Minutes
Page 2-24 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Statistics
You can view statistical information on the events being displayed by clicking on the Statistics
button in the log manager (see Figure ). The Statistics screen groups similar events that occurred
within the filtered period as well as the time and date of the earliest and latest event occurrence for
each event type. You can move through the list using the scroll bar (if applicable) or the up and down
arrow buttons to the right of the scroll bar. If the event log display spans over more than ten rows,
use the arrows on the side of the display to scroll to more screens. Click OK or Cancel to close this
window.
Figure 2.12: Log Statistics

Selects item at top
of current page
Selects next higher

page items
Scrolls up one item
Scrolls down one

item
Selects next lower

page items
Selects item at
bottom of current
page
The columns in the display indicate specific information about the events:
• Device: refers to the device that is associated with the alarm. The device options are
Controller, Exciter, Rack and PM (power module).
• Event: describes the alarm (e.g., Local/Remote switch).
• Severity: identifies the seriousness of the alarm [a single yellow ! indicates low severity
(RF output not affected); a single orange ! indicates medium severity (RF output is
reduced); two red ! indicates high severity (RF output is inhibited)].
• # Events: indicates the number of times the same alarm has occurred for the same
device.
• Earliest: indicates the first time of an alarm occurrence.
• Latest: indicates the last time of an alarm occurrence, If an alarm has only one
occurrence (i.e., # Events column is 1), then the time in the Earliest column will be the
same as the time in the Latest column.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-25

Legend
Click on the Legend button in the Log Manager (see Figure 2.13) to display a legend that describes
the meaning of the symbols shown in the State and Severity columns of the Log page. Click OK or
Cancel to close this window.
Figure 2.13: Log Manager - Legend
Page 2-26 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Instrument Panels - viewing displays

The central area of the Home page displays up to four panels of instrument information. You can
choose which panels to display from 12 possible information panels (Figure 2.14).
Figure 2.14: Instrument Panel Options
To view the instrument panel options, close an existing panel by pressing X (upper-right corner) and
then press the “cog” icon to open the Tool Menu. Press an icon to display that panel.
Each panel has its own navigational controls. See Table 2.1 on page 2-28 for a description of each
tool menu panel and a cross-reference to more detailed information.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-27

Table 2.1: Tool Menu Panels
Tool Description See Page
Spectrum Displays a spectrum analyzer, capable of monitoring the 2-29

transmitter’s RF output spectrum and the spectrum of the
signal generated by the exciter.
EQ Frequency Displays the frequency response of the exciter’s EQ filter. 2-31

Response
EQ Impulse Displays the impulse response of the exciter’s EQ filter. 2-32

Response
EQ Filter Delay Displays the delay of the exciter’s EQ filter across its 2-33
bandwidth.
AM-AM Correction Displays the amplitude compensation being applied to the 2-34
magnitude signal.
AM-PM Correction Displays the compensation being applied to the phase signal. 2-35
Signal Constellation For IBOC mode only. Displays the phase and amplitude of the 2-36
symbols being modulated within an OFDM sub-carrier as dots
on a cartesian graph. Also displays timing and data carrier
information.
Lissajous Plot Displays a Lissajous figure that represents the resultant vector 2-37
(magnitude and phase) for the applicable channels (either L
and R or I and Q).
Smith Chart Displays the impedance of the load as seen at the input to the 2-38
transmitter’s combiner.
Modulation Levels Displays L+R modulation, Envelope Magnitude and I/Q 2-39
modulation. I/Q bar graphs are relevant for DRM or IBOC
mode only.
Audio Inputs Displays the program input levels. Bar graph labels indicate 2-40
the source of each display.
Power Distribution Displays a CCDF plot that indicates the probability of 2-41
exceeding a given power level, based on the average power
level. Aids in determing peak power capability.
Page 2-28 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.15: Spectrum Analyzer

Cursor Cursor Minimize
Peak Cog Left Right (Maximize)
Close
Spectrum analyzer. See Figure 2.15. The carrier level is normalized to its unmodulated level at
0 dB. The graph center is always at the carrier frequency, as defined by the Exciter’s set Frequency
value.
Masks are shown based on transmission mode and are defined by the following standards:
• Analog AM standard: NRSC-2-B

• DRM and DRM+AM standards: ITU-R SM.328-11 and ITU-R SM.1541-4
• IBOC and IBOC+AM: NRSC-5-C
NOTE: Any spurious emissions that are displayed are a product of the spectrum analyzer and are not
actually present on the transmitter output.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor on the trace in the approximate area. The cursor position
(frequency and amplitude) is shown in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. The center
frequency is shown in the upper, left-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the spectrum
analyzer panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-29

Use the left and right buttons to make fine adjustments.
Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the
panel size.
Use the “peak” button to place the cursor on the next successive peak (moving left to right) in the
spectrum.
Use the “cog” button to gain access to spectrum settings (see Figure 2.16) such as:
• Resolution Bandwidth: determines the FFT bin size or the smallest frequency that can be
resolved. Set between 90 Hz and 2500 Hz (default is 300 Hz). Decreasing this value provides
better frequency resolution, but will increase the sweep time.
• Span: determines the start and stop frequencies of the analyzer with the carrier frequency
always at the center. Set between 20 kHz and 300 kHz (default is 150 kHz).
• Averages: determines the number of averages that the analyzer performs per sweep. Set
between 0 and 100 (default is 19).
• Measurement Source: determines the source of the spectrum plot (transmitter output,
audio analyzer, etc.) that is being displayed. Selecting TX Output uses the exciter’s RF sample
feedback signal to display the RF output spectrum. Selecting Audio Analyzer displays the
composite baseband signal.
• Clear Averaging: resets the averaged signal shown on the spectrum analyzer.
Figure 2.16: Spectrum Settings
Page 2-30 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Equalizer screens. The NX50’s exciter includes a fixed equalizer to optimize audio perfomance.
There are three menus available in the tool menu panels - EQ Frequency (see Figure 2.17), EQ
Impulse Response (see Figure 2.18 on page 2-32) and EQ Filter Delay (see Figure 2.19 on page 2-
33). Coefficients are selected based on your channel frequency. All frequencies shown are relative to
the channel frequency.
Figure 2.17: EQ Frequency Response
EQ frequency response
See Figure 2.17. This panel displays the frequency response of the active exciter’s EQ filter. Displays
the gain of the filter with respect to frequency of the magnitude of the modulating signal. A dashed
line is displayed at the 0 dB level.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area on the trace. The cursor position
(frequency and magnitude) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas
of the tool menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-31

panel size.
Figure 2.18: EQ Impulse Response
EQ impulse response
See Figure 2.18. This panel displays the impulse response of the modulator’s EQ filter.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (filter tap # and
magnitude) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the tool
menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
panel size.
Page 2-32 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.19: EQ Filter Delay
EQ filter delay. See Figure 2.19. This panel displays the delay of the modulator’s EQ filter across its
bandwidth.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (frequency and
delay) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the tool menu
panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
panel size.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-33

AM-AM and AM-PM correction screens. The exciter linearizes the transmitter’s magnitude
(envelope) path and drive signal by using two correction parameters - AM-AM Correction (see
Figure 2.20) and AM-PM Correction (see Figure 2.21 on page 2-35), which can be viewed as tool
menu panels.
Figure 2.20: AM-AM Correction
AM-AM correction. This panel displays the amplitude correction being applied to the magnitude
signal. The x-axis represents the signal amplitude and the y-axis represents the gain correction applied
for a given amplitude value.
(LUT index and gain) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of
the tool menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
panel size.
Page 2-34 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.21: AM-PM Correction
AM-PM correction. This panel displays the phase correction being applied to the RF drive signal.
The x-axis represents the signal amplitude and the y-axis represents the phase shift correction applied
for a given amplitude value.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (LUT index and
phase) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the tool menu
panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
panel size.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-35

Figure 2.22: Signal Constellation
Signal constellation. See Figure 2.22. In IBOC mode only, the exciter constantly measures the
transmitter signal and performs basic demodulation of the digital carriers. The Signal Constellation
panel displays the phase and amplitude of the symbols being modulated within an OFDM sub-carrier
as dots on a cartesian graph. There are separate screens for each sub-carrier. You can select sub-
carriers by pressing on the carrier representation in the SubCarrier Group MER Spectrum chart, or
by selecting the desired subcarrier from the SubCarrier Group Details list. Typically, the dots will be
grouped together around the ideal data points.
Sub-carrier group information is shown in the lower, right section of the screen. Displayed
information includes the sub-carrier group name, the bandwidth that the selected carrier group
occupies and the modulation error ratio (MER) for the selected carrier group. MER quantifies the
performance of the transmitted digital signal as the ratio between the RMS power of the ideal signal
and the RMS power of the received signal’s error vector. A higher MER value is characteristic of a
smaller error, and therefore a higher quality signal. The MER out of the transmitter is typically better
than 20 dB, but can be significantly affected by external influences such as antenna impedance and
bandwidth.
NOTE: When subcarriers are turned off in the Exgine settings, they will still appear in this screen, but
the MER will be very high (i.e., 0 to 10 dB).
panel size.
Page 2-36 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.23: Lissajous Plot
L and R mode
I and Q mode
Lissajous plot. See Figure 2.23. This panel displays a Lissajous figure that represents either L (left)
and R (right) audio content or a representation of the digital modulation signal [I (in-phase) and Q
(quadrature)]. I and Q will be automatically selected unless you are operating in stereo mode or not
operating digital. Left and right audio content is displayed for all other audio sources.
The plot consists of a group of sequential samples to allow signal analysis. In L and R mode, the
L+R portion of the signal tends to dominate the plot, resulting in the majority of samples appearing
in the lower, left and upper, right quadrants. In I and Q mode, signals that are of equal frequency and
90 degrees out-of-phase result in a circular display.
panel size.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-37

Figure 2.24: Smith Chart

Zoom Cursor Cursor Minimize
Out Left Right (Maximize)
Zoom
In
Close
Smith chart. See Figure 2.24. The Smith Chart allows you to visualize the impedance of the
transmitter’s load as seen at the combiner, as a function of frequency. The impedance shown on the
Smith Chart is normalized to the combiner input impedance. The ideal load is therefore 1 +j0 ohms,
which implies a perfect 50-ohm load is being applied to the output of the transmitter.
Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the nearest area on the trace showing the normalized
impedance plot line. The cursor position (impedance and frequency) is noted in the upper, right-hand
corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the tool menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of
the cursor position.
Use the left and right buttons as fine adjustments.
Use the zoom in (+) and zoom out (-) buttons to size the chart between 100% and 1000%.
Page 2-38 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

panel size.
Figure 2.25: Modulation Levels
Modulation levels. See Figure 2.25. Bar graphs display the percentage of L+R modulation, PDM
(magnitude) and I/Q modulation for the transmitter. I/Q bar graphs will show levels in DRM or
IBOC mode only.
The level shown in yellow represents the currently measured peak modulation level, with the RMS
level shown in green. An actual RMS value is displayed below the meter).
The red markers represent the most recently recorded maximum peak level. The actual peak values
are displayed in red below the meter. For L+R and I/Q modulation, both positive and negative peaks
are shown.
There are no interactive tools (cursors, fine/coarse adjustments) for this display.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-39

Figure 2.26: Audio Inputs
Audio inputs. See Figure 2.26. Bar graphs display the amplitude (in dB) of the audio inputs selected
in the preset.
The level shown in yellow represents the currently measured peak amplitude, with the RMS level
shown in green. An actual RMS value is displayed below the meter).
The red markers represent the most recently recorded peak level. The actual peak value is displayed in
red below the meter.
There are no interactive tools (cursors, fine/coarse adjustments) for this display.
Page 2-40 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.27: Power Distribution Graph

Cursor Cursor Minimize
Left Right (Maximize)
Close
Power distribution graph. See Figure 2.24. The exciter measures the relative power levels of the
signal and determines the probability of exceeding a given power level, relative to the average power.
The data is plotted in the Power Distribution Graph as a CCDF (complementary cumulative
distribution function). The x-axis displays the relative power level in dB, with the reference
representing the average power. The y-axis displays the probability of exceeding that power level. This
graph can be used to assess the distribution of a given signal, and provides an indication of the
amount of peak power capability required.
(power gain and probability) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other
areas of the tool menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
panel size.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-41

Meters page - viewing real-time meters

The AUI displays many metered parameters on the Home page (right side) (Figure 2.28). This
section includes the following topics:
• Describing the meter display
• "Accessing meter information", on page 2-43
• "Saving meter list", on page 2-47
Figure 2.28: Meters Page

Information
Buttons Save
View
Selected
Meters
arrow
Describing the meter display

The meters displayed in the AUI are active meters selected for display. Each meter is a colour-coded
bar with minimum and maximum values. The current value for a meter is indicated by an arrow on
the colour-coded bar, as well as a displayed value below the meter.
• A parameter value in the green section of a meter bar indicates the parameter is within the
range for normal operation.
• A parameter value in the yellow section (as applicable) of a meter bar indicates the parameter
is still within an operational range, but is approaching design limitations.
• A parameter value in the red section of a meter bar indicates the parameter is outside normal
operating conditions.
• The number of meters that can be added to this list is limited only by the number of meters
available for selection.
Page 2-42 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Accessing meter information

• To delete a meter from the Home page, press the X in the left-hand corner of the meter in
the “Meters” window (right side).
• To review all the meter options, press the information button (magnifying glass) at the top of
the meters panel (Figure 2.29).
Figure 2.29: Meters List View Window
X to close
Buttons to
access
summary
screens
Procedure to identify meter information on a specific transmitter sub-system:
1. Open the “Meters List View” window, which organizes the available meters by transmitter
sub-system.
• Controller - (Figure 2.30 on page 2-44)
• Exciter A - (Figure 2.31 on page 2-45)
• Exciter B - (Figure 2.31 on page 2-45)
• Rack 1 - 4 (Multiple Racks supported, as applicable) (Figure 2.32 on page 2-45). Additionally,
each Rack includes a list of PM (power module) sub-systems, representing the RF power
modules in each rack. Each power module can be selected to show its meters.
• Modules - Rack 1 - 4 (Multiple Racks supported, as applicable) (Figure 2.33 on page 2-46)
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-43

2. To view the summary screen of each device type: Under “Transmitter Layout”, press the
information button ( i ) adjacent a device type (Figure 2.30 on page 2-44, Figure 2.31 on
page 2-45, Figure 2.32 on page 2-45 and Figure 2.33 on page 2-46 ). The summary screen
shows all available meters in tabular format.
NOTE: When a meter value is updated, a blue box briefly appears around that value. Typically,
updates occur every one or two seconds.
3. To choose individual meters for display in the “Meters” window of the Home page: Select
the device type name in the Transmitter Layout panel and select the checkbox next to the
desired meters shown in the Relevant Meters panel. If the Relevant Meters panel contains
more than one page of information, then use the scroll bar (right side) to find the desired
meter.
Figure 2.30: Meters - Information Display for Controller
Page 2-44 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.31: Meters - Information Display for the Exciter
Figure 2.32: Meters - Information Display for Rack 1
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-45

Figure 2.33: Meters - Information Display for Modules - Rack 1
* PM 1-10 shown
Press to view Press to view
previous ten modules next ten modules
NOTE: Power modules are numbered (e.g., PM1, PM2, etc.) in the order they are plugged in, which is
not necessarily the same as their physical location in the transmitter. To match a meter or an alarm
with a specific power module, match the hexidecimal serial address (see Figure 2.33, shown within the
Front Panel Inhibit button) with that shown on the label on the front of the power module.
On the modules summary screen (Figure 2.33), meters for only ten power modules are shown on a
page. For transmitters with more than ten power modules, use the left and right arrow buttons on the
bottom of the page to cycle through the groups of ten power modules.
Individual power modules can be directly inhibited by pressing their Front Panel Inhibit button.
Page 2-46 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Saving meter list

NOTE: Meter lists are associated with user accounts. Lists saved in this screen are only displayed in the
current user account. Setting a list as default will define the meters that will appear when logging into
the current account (or after an ac power interruption in the local AUI if this is the default user
account).
To save meter specifics for display on the Home page:
1. Open the Meter List Save window from the Home page using the floppy disk button
(Figure 2.34).
• Press Save As to save the currently displayed meters. Enter a name in the Layout Name
entry box and press OK.
• Press Delete to discard the selected meter list.
• Press Set Default to set the selected meter list as the default for the current user
account.
• Press Save to overwrite the selected meter list with the currently displayed meters.
• Press Load to display the meters saved under the currently selected meter list in the
Meters panel on the right-hand side of the Home page.
Figure 2.34: Meters List Save Window
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-47

Presets - editing operational settings

The Presets page (see Figure 2.35) allows you to view operational data (power level, frequency,
mode, program input characteristics), plus create and control preset settings. You can create up to 62
presets or edit existing presets.
To view the Presets page, select Presets in the Menu page.
• "Activating Presets", on page 2-49

• "Editing or Creating Presets", on page 2-49
• "Loading Presets", on page 2-50
• "Changing preset schedules", on page 2-50
• "Understanding the preset tabs", on page 2-51
• "Preset examples - IBOC preset", on page 2-55
• "Preset examples - Analog preset", on page 2-55
• "Preset examples - IBOC preset with analog backup", on page 2-56
Figure 2.35: Presets Page - General Tab

Active preset
Access from the Menu page
Page 2-48 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Activating Presets
In the Transmitter block in the AUI’s top banner, click the bar that contains the active preset name
and the drop-down arrow (see Figure 2.36). The Activate Preset window will appear, which contains
a list of all preset options. Click and highlight the desired preset and click the Activate button to
enable the preset as the transmitter’s active preset. Click the Cancel button to close this window.
Figure 2.36: Activate a Preset
CLICK HERE TO
DISPLAY PRESET
SELECTION
OPTIONS
Editing or Creating Presets

When the Presets page (see Figure 2.37 on page 2-54, Figure 2.38 on page 2-54 and Figure 2.39 on
page 2-54) is opened from the menu, the Current Settings of the transmitter are displayed. They
define the current operational state of the transmitter. Current Settings can be edited and then
immediately activated by pressing the Save button.
To edit a saved preset, you must load that preset from the Presets page (see "Loading Presets", on
page 2-53). If the edited preset was active before it was edited, saving the preset will update the
preset, but the Current Settings will not change. To update the operation of the transmitter, re-
activate the preset through the top banner (see "Activating Presets", on page 2-49).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-49

In the top banner, an asterisk (*) appears next to the preset name when the Current Settings have
changed since the last preset was loaded. Current Settings are not saved through an ac power cycle;
when the transmitter recovers from an ac power loss, it loads the preset that was last activated.
On the Presets page, an asterisk (*) appears next to the preset name in the header when there are
unsaved changes to the preset.
When changes are complete, click the Save button and then click the Save Preset window’s Save
button to enable the changes. If you are creating a new preset, you can also enter a new name (e.g.,
Preset 4 - IBOC) in the preset window before clicking the Save or Save New button.
Parameters that can be edited are discussed in detail in "Understanding the preset tabs", on page 2-51.
To remove a preset, select it and press the Delete button.
To ignore any changes, press Cancel to return to the Presets page.
NOTE: See "Preset examples - IBOC preset", on page 2-55, "Preset examples - Analog preset", on
page 2-55, "Preset examples - IBOC preset with analog backup", on page 2-56 and "Preset examples
- DRM preset", on page 2-56 for sample presets for different transmission modes.
Loading Presets
When you enter the Presets page, the Current Settings of the transmitter aredisplayed. See"Editing
or Creating Presets", on page 2-49 for more information on Current Settings. If you do not wish to
change the current operational state of the transmitter, use the Load button on the left side of the
Presets page to display a window containing a list of other presets. Select the desired preset and click
the Load button to view or enable editing of the preset. Click the Cancel button to close this
window.
Changing preset schedules

You can program a preset schedule for the transmitter, using the Scheduler page (see "Preset
Scheduler", on page 2-61).
Page 2-50 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Understanding the preset tabs

The Presets page consists of tabs across the top with functions on the left-side and parameters
displayed in the center and right-side of the window. A separate display appears for each of the
following tabs:
General
(Figure 2.35 on page 2-48)
• Preset Name - this identifies the current preset. You must load a preset to directly edit this field (see
"Loading Presets", on page 2-50).
• Output Power - set the output power level (in kW)
• Overall Mode - set the overall transmission mode. Options are:
– Analog AM: transmits a carrier, amplitude modulated with audio. Audio settings are selected in the
Analog Settings tab.
– DRM: transmits a DRM OFDM signal using the I/Q stream from a DRM modulator connected to the
desired AES input. Modulation settings are selected in the Digital Settings tab.
– DRM+AM: Also known as simulcast, transmits a carrier, amplitude modulated with audio and a
DRM OFDM signal in either an upper or lower channel. AM settings are selected in the Analog
Settings tab and DRM settings are selected in the Digital Settings tab. In this case, if balanced
analog audio input is used for AM modulation, AES2 input (Digital AES input) must be used for I/Q
stream from the DRM modulator. If AES is used for AM modulation, either AES input may be used
for either input (AM modulation and DRM I/Q stream).
– IBOC: transmits an AM IBOC standard signal (carrier, amplitude modulated with audio and upper
and lower sidebands of OFDM IBOC carriers). Requires an Exgine to be installed in the transmitter
that is receiving modulation information from and Exporter. Both the AM signal and IBOC carriers
are received in the I/Q stream from the Exgine. Modulation settings are selected in the Digital
Settings tab and through the User Settings > Exgine Settings page.
– IBOC+AM: The transmitted signal in this mode is identical to IBOC mode. In this mode, the
information for the OFDM carriers is received from the Exgine and the AM information is received
through an audio input in the transmitter. In this mode, the AM audio signal cannot be connected
to AES2; it must be connected to Bal Anlg Audio or AES1. AM settings are selected in the Analog
Settings tab. IBOC carrier modulation settings are selected in the Digital Settings tab and in the
User Settings > Exgine Settings page.
• Configuration - select the pre-correction configuration (see "Precorrection Settings page", on page 2-
97)
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-51

NOTE: Available settings on the Analog Settings and Digital Settings tabs are shown/hidden based
on the Overall Mode setting. Not all settings are available in all modes.
Analog Settings
• AM Source - select the audio source for the AM signal. Options are:
– Balanced Analog (connector J12 on A11A1)
– AES1 (connector J11 on A11A1)
– AES2 (connector J10 on A11A1)
– Audio Player/AES1: Requires installed USB sound card option. Plays audio player playlist through
single-board computer USB port; This USB port must be connected to the USB sound card, the
output of which should be connected to the AES1 input.
– Audio Player/AES2: Same as above for AES2 input.
• Format - Options are:
– AM Carrier: transmits carrier only; ignores audio inputs.

– Mono L+R: adds L+R channels on AES signal.
– Mono L: transmits L channel of AES signal or Bal Analog.
– Mono R: transmits R channel of AES signal.
– Stereo C-QUAM: uses amplitude and phase modulation over AES, to transmit a stereo AM signal.
• Filter Type - selects a filter to be applied to the input audio signal. Options are:
– None: no filter is applied (default).

– Brick Wall: applies a low pass filter with a very sharp cutoff and a 6 dB bandwidth defined by the
Filter Bandwidth setting (between 1 kHz and 10 kHz).
– Minimum Overshoot: applies a Gaussian low pass filter with a very gentle rolloff and a 3 dB
bandwidth of 5.13 kHz. Used to minimize ringing of the modulator filter with extremely high rate of
change input signals (e.g., square waves). Typically used only for testing purposes.
• Preemphasis - applies a NRSC-1 pre-emphasis curve to the input audio signal. Default is OFF.
• Dynamic Carrier Control - selects the DCC mode, as applicable. Options are None, AMC, EAMC, DAM
or DAM Full. Default is None. When a DCC mode is selectedm a Max DCC Compression level can also
be entered. See "Selecting the DCC mode", on page 2-57 for more information on each mode.
• AMSS - Amplitude Modulation Signalling System. Allows low-bit rate data to be transmitted with the
Analog AM signal. Contact Nautel for assistance with using AMSS. Default is OFF.
Page 2-52 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• AES Input Level - Defines the AES input level (in dBFS) that will result in 100% modulation depth. Set
between -30 dBFS and 0 dBFS, according to the input signal level.
• Balanced Analog Input Level - Defines the Bal Analog input level (in dBm) that will result in 100%
modulation depth. Set between -20 dBm and +12 dBm, according to the input signal level.
Digital Settings
• Data Source - Select the source for the OFDM (digital) signal (AES1 or AES2).
• DRM Bandwidth - Select the bandwidth of the DRM signal to be transmitted. This setting only sets the
parameters of the mask shown on the spectrum analyzer. Transmitted signal bandwidth is set at the I/Q
source (DRM modulator). Select 4.5 kHz, 5 kHz, 9 kHz, 10 kHz, 18 kHz or 20 kHz.
• Frequency Offset - In AM+DRM mode, sets the frequency offset between the AM signal and the DRM
carriers. Set between -20 kHz and +20 kHz.
• Power Differential - In AM+DRM mode, sets the difference between the AM carrier power and the RMS
power of the DRM carriers. The level is approximately based on the input signal to the exciter and may
require adjustment to obtain the exact level. Set between 0 dB and 40 dB.
• Digital AES input Level - Defines the full-scale AES input level (in dBFS) for the I/Q stream. Set between
-30 dBFS and 0 dBFS
• IBOC BW - In IBOC mode, sets the bandwidth for the IBOC signal. Select 5 kHz or 8 kHz.
Audio Loss
• Mod Loss Timeout - Determine if an action should be taken on the loss of a modulating signal. Select
Yes or No. Default is No. If Yes, the following sub-fields appear:
– Action: select the action to take on the loss of a modulating signal. Select None (no resulting
action), Inhibit (inhibits the RF output, fans and B+ voltage until the audio returns) or Change
Preset (changes the active preset).
– Mod Loss Preset: displayed only if Action is set to Change Preset. Select the preset from the drop-
down list that will activate upon the loss of a modulating signal.
– Timeout Minutes: sets the delay, in minutes, between audio loss detection and the resulting action.
Enter a value between 0 and 255 minutes.
– Timeout Seconds - sets the delay, in seconds, between audio loss detection and the resulting
action. Enter a value between 0 and 59.9 seconds
– Threshold - sets the threshold for audio loss detection. Enter a value between 0 and 100%
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-53

Figure 2.37: Presets - Analog Settings
Figure 2.38: Presets - Digital Settings
Figure 2.39: Presets Tabs - Audio Loss
Page 2-54 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Preset examples - IBOC preset

The following examples shows you how to set presets for the IBOC applications with typical values:
1. Enter Output Power field with desired power level.
2. Set Overall Mode to IBOC.
3. Under Digital Settings, set Bandwidth to 5 kHz.
Preset examples - Analog preset

2. Set Overall Mode to Analog AM.
3. Under Analog Settings, set AM Source as required (typically Analog AES).
4. Under Analog Settings, set Format as required (typically Mono L + R).
5. Under Analog Settings, enter Bandwidth field as required.
6. Under Analog Settings, set Preemphasis to Off (typically).
7. Under Analog Settings, set Dynamic Carrier Control to None (typically).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-55

Preset examples - IBOC preset with analog backup

1. Set two presets similar to the two previous examples.
2. Under Audio Loss, set Mod Loss Timeout to Yes. Several other selectable fields will appear.
3. In the Action field, select Change Preset from the drop-down list. The Mod Loss Preset field
will appear.
4. In the Mod Loss Preset field, select the desired preset from the drop-down list. This is the
preset that will activate upon a modulation loss.
5. Set the remaining mod loss timeout fields. See "Audio Loss", on page 2-53.
6. Save the preset with the desired name (new or existing). See "Editing or Creating Presets",
on page 2-49.
Preset examples - DRM preset

2. Set Overall Mode to DRM.
3. Under Digital Settings, set Data Source as required (AES 1or AES 2).
4. Under Digital Settings, set DRM Bandwidth as required.
5. Under Digital Settings, set the AES Input Level for the selected data source to the
appropriate level for the DRM modulator.
Page 2-56 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Selecting the DCC mode

The NX50 is capable of several DCC modes (see "Editing or Creating Presets", on page 2-49), each
with varying performance in terms of energy savings and effects on the reproduced signal. The
selectable options are:
• AMC (see Figure 2.40)

• EAMC (see Figure 2.41 on page 2-58)
• DAM (basic) (see Figure 2.42 on page 2-58)
• DAM Full (see Figure 2.43 on page 2-59)
• DCC1 (see Figure 2.44 on page 2-59)
Once a DCC curve has been selected, the desired Max DCC Compression level can be entered. This
setting defines the maximum reduction in carrier (or carrier and sideband) power for a given curve.
Standard compression settings are as follows:
• AMC and EAMC modes: 3 dB

• DAM, Full DAM and DCC1 modes: 4.44 dB
Figure 2.40: AMC
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-57

Figure 2.41: EAMC
Figure 2.42: Basic DAM
Page 2-58 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.43: Full DAM
Figure 2.44: DCC1
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-59

Guidelines for selecting the DCC mode:

Observe the following guidelines when selecting the DCC mode for your application.
AMC mode (see Figure 2.40 on page 2-57) should work well for most broadcasters and is generally
recommended if you have an IBOC transmission. It has several advantages over the other modes:
• It tends to save the most power when used with a heavily processed audio signal and asym-
metrical modulation.
• It does not affect the modulation depths of the received signal, so the station’s sound should
not change.
• It performs the reduction in power in such a way that it tends not be masked by the audio.
If AMC is not being used, consider DAM mode as a second choice, although the power savings will
be significantly less. If the station is operating with less audio processing, or has more silent periods,
the DAM algorithms will tend to save more power. However, the basic DAM characteristic will
impact the audio quality of the station. In IBOC mode, DAM will significantly reduce the audio
quality of the station as it will increase the impact of the IBOC on the analog. It may also make it
more difficult for the transmitter to meet the spectral mask, by making the transmitter operate at a
much higher modulation depth and effectively increasing the level of the digital carriers relative to the
analog.
Page 2-60 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Preset Scheduler
If the scheduler is enabled (see "Enabling the Scheduler", on page 2-63), you can program a preset
schedule for the transmitter. Use the Scheduler page (see Figure 2.45) to set the dates and times at
which presets take effect. You can define up to 144 scheduler rules. To view the Scheduler page,
select Scheduler from the Menu page options.
Figure 2.45: Scheduler page
The left-hand side of the Scheduler page displays a monthly calendar (e.g., February 2013). Use the
<< and >> buttons to navigate between months. Use the < and > buttons to navigate to the beginning
and the end of the schedule.
The right-hand side of the Scheduler page contains a Rules section and a Daily Events section. All
programmed rules are displayed in the Rules section. Clicking on a specific date in the monthly
calendar displays the rules, as applicable for that day, in the Daily Events section.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-61

Editing scheduler rules

When you click in the Rules list, you have the option to edit or delete an existing rule, or to create a
new rule (up to a maximum of 144 rules). Click the New or Edit button to display the Rule Explorer
window (see Figure 2.46). Click Delete to remove a rule from the list.
Figure 2.46: Rule Explorer window
Use the Rule Explorer window as follows:
• In the Time of Year section, set the start (From:) and end (To:) dates for the rule. Start to
end dates must be less than one year apart.
• In the Days section, select the days of the week on which the rule will apply.
• In the Time of Day section, set the start (From:) and end (To:) times (hours, minutes and
seconds) for the rule. Use the Repeat: field to establish a repeating cycle for the rule (e.g.,
every 24 hours).
• Use the drop-down menu to select the preset for the rule. The preset’s power and mode
are displayed below the preset.
• Unless you edit other rules first, you cannot select a date that occurs before the start of
the previous rule or after the start of the following rule.
• Click the Save button to store the rule in the scheduler or the Cancel button to return
to the Scheduler page.
Page 2-62 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Enabling the Scheduler

You can enable or disable the scheduler by clicking the Scheduler button in the Date & Time
section (see Figure 2.47).
Figure 2.47: Enabling/disabling the scheduler

Top banner of the AUI
Scheduler field (toggles Off/On) or
When Scheduler: ON appears in green, the transmitter will follow the Scheduler settings.
When Scheduler: OFF appears in red, the transmitter will stop following the schedule and the active
preset will be the preset that was operating when the scheduler was disabled.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-63

Status - viewing transmitter status

You can view the operational status of the transmitter using the Status Page (see Figure 2.48). This
page shows current active alarms to aid in fault diagnosis.
• "Viewing alarm details", on page 2-65
• "Status button colour indications", on page 2-65
• "Resetting alarms", on page 2-65
Figure 2.48: Transmitter Status Page
Page 2-64 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Viewing alarm details

The Transmitter Status page displays a table that lists the active alarm details under the following
columns:
• Device - identifies the alarms by their originating device (e.g., Controller, Exciter A, etc.)
• Alarm - identifies the type of alarm (alarm name).
• Level - identifies the severity level of the alarm
= low (RF output not affected)
= medium (RF output may be reduced)
= high (RF output may be inhibited)
Status button colour indications

• When the Status button is red, one or more active alarms are indicating that the transmitter
may be in an ‘off-air’ state.
• When the Status button is yellow, one or more active alarms are indicating that the
transmitter is still ‘on-air’, but may be at reduced power.
• When the Status button is green, no alarms are being reported and the transmitter is
operating normally.
Resetting alarms
When an alarm is present, use the Reset button (Figure 2.49), at the bottom of any AUI screen, to
clear any latching alarms that are holding the transmitter in an “off-air” state. If the offending alarm
has cleared, then the transmitter should resume operation.
Figure 2.49: Logs - Reset
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-65

User Accounts
The User Accounts page allows you to set up user accounts and assign different levels of access to
the transmitter control operations (see Figure 2.50). Any user may change their password, but only
Administrators may add users and edit permissions.
You access the User Accounts page from the Menu page in the bottom panel of the AUI.
• "Types of users", on page 2-67

• "Changing the password", on page 2-68
• "Removing an account", on page 2-70
• "Setting autologin status (local only)", on page 2-70
• "Removing an account", on page 2-70
Figure 2.50: User Accounts Page
In the User Accounts page, users are listed in a panel on the left side of the screen, operations
appear along the bottom and settings appear in the center.
Page 2-66 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.51: User Accounts Page Layout

Administrator
Full Control
View Only
Auto Login Custom
Users
Permissions
Types of users
You assign a user type to identify the permissions available to that user. All users have permission to
change their own username and password (see Figure 2.51) but there are other realms of permission.
The AUI operates with the following user types:
• View Only: Can monitor equipment data only, with no administrative or control functions.
• Full Control: Can monitor and control equipment, with no administrative functions.
• Administrator: Can perform all functions. Only an Administrator can edit user information.
• Custom: Administrator can customize the user permissions by manually selecting the
permission levels.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-67

Adding a user
You must be an Administrator to use this function.
Procedure to add a user (see Figure 2.51 on page 2-67):
1. Open the User Accounts page.
2. Press Add (bottom of the screen) to open a small window.
3. Beside Username, enter a name that identifes the new user, and press OK.
4. Select the new user to edit the settings.
5. Beside User Type, press the arrow to reveal a drop-down menu and select a type of user. If
you select Custom as the type of user, then go to the Permission section of the screen and
mark individual permissions (see "Changing permissions", on page 2-69).
6. Press Apply to confirm your entries and create a new user or press Cancel to ignore your
entries and exit the small window without creating a new user.User
Changing the password

Any user can change their own password. You must be an Administrator to change another user’s
password.
Procedure to change a password (see Figure 2.51 on page 2-67):
2. Select a user from the “List of Users”.
3. Press Change Password (bottom of the screen) to open a small window.
4. Beside Old Password, enter the existing password.
5. Beside New Password, enter a new password.
6. Beside Confirm Password, retype the new password.
7. Press Apply to replace the old password with the new one and exit this menu.
Page 2-68 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Changing permissions
You must be an Administrator to edit this function.
All users have permission to change their own username and password (see Figure 2.51). You can
customize the permissions assigned to a user or simply pick a predetermined set of permissions based
on the user type.
Procedure to change user permissions (see Figure 2.51):
2. Select a user from the “List of Users” to display the permissions for that user in the center of
the “Permissions” window. The permissions associated with the selected user are identified
with a checkmark.
3. Press on User Type to reveal a drop-down menu and select a new type of user.
4. If the user type in Step 3 is Custom, set individual permissions. Under “Permissions”, place
a checkmark beside each permission that you want to associate with the user. The boxes
work like a toggle - click in the circle to place a checkmark and click again to remove the
checkmark. Choose one or more of the following options:
• Activate/Modify Preset - Allows the user to modify presets and change the active preset.
• Power Control - Allows the user to change the power setpoint of the transmitter.
• Manage Power Lockouts - Allows the user to modify and select the active power lockout.
• Delete Logs - Allows the user to remove log entries.
• RF On/Off - Allows the user to turn the RF output on and off..
• All Other Settings - Allows the user to adjust all settings not mentioned above, except for
administrating user accounts.
5. Press Apply to assign the new permissions to the selected user.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-69

Setting autologin status (local only)

You must be an Administrator to edit this function. Ths setting defines which account will be
automatically entered on the local AUI. If no account is set for Auto Login, the login screen will
appear when the local AUI boots. Remote users always require a login. There can only be one account
that is set for Auto Login.
Procedure to change your auto login status (see Figure 2.51):
3. Beside Auto Login (Local only), press the checkbox to activate this feature. When this feature is
activated, the local user is automatically logged into the local transmitter with all the rights
and priveleges assigned to that user.
4. Press Apply to apply this change to the user.
Removing an account
You must be a Administrator to edit this function.
To remove a user account (see Figure 2.51):
3. Press Delete to delete the user from the list.
Page 2-70 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

User Settings
The User Settings page (see Figure 2.52) allows you to modify various custom user settings such as
network settings and email notification settings.
Figure 2.52: User Settings Page
• "Setting up the network", on page 2-72

• "Email Configuration", on page 2-74
• "Notifications", on page 2-76
• "Configuring Exgine settings", on page 2-78
• "SNMP Configuration", on page 2-81
• "Critical Parameters", on page 2-83
• "Time Setup", on page 2-84
• "NTP Servers", on page 2-86
• "Setting call sign/ID", on page 2-88
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-71

Setting up the network

The Network Setup page (see Figure 2.52) allows you configure parameters for connecting the AUI
to your network. Modify network settings as follows:
Figure 2.53: User Settings - Setting up the Network
1. Open the User Settings page by pressing Menu/User Settings in the Home page.
2. Select the Network Setup option (left-side of the screen) to display related information and
associated parameters in the center of the screen.
3. Enter the following parameters:

• Mac Address - Displays a number that serves as unique network adapter identifier. This is set by
the manufacturer and is displayed for informational purposes only. It may be necessary to use this
number to allow the AUI to access your network.
• DHCP or Static IP - Defines whether the IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, Default
Nameserver and Alternate Nameserver will be provided manually (static IP) or automatically by the
access point (i.e., a router) through DHCP. In either case, the access point must be configured with
the correct settings, which match the settings on the AUI in order for the AUI to access the
network. Your parameter selection affects other parameter entries. If Static IP was selected, enter
the IP Address, Subnet Mask and Default Gateway.
Page 2-72 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Subnet Mask - Masks an IP address, and divides the IP address into network address and host
address (normally set to 255.255.255.0)
• Default Gateway - Defines the address of the network access point.
• Default Nameserver - Address that identifies the DNS host
• Alternate Nameserver- Redirects the name server
• Port Number - Used to identify the senders and receivers of messages. Defaults to 3501.
NOTE: If the transmitter is connected to the Internet via a firewall, and remote access is
required, the port number for external incoming connections that are to be routed to the
transmitter MUST be the same as the port number that the transmitter listens to on the
internal network.
• Status - Identifies the network status (Running or Not Running). Running indicates the transmitter
is successfully connected to the network. Not Running indicates the transmitter is not
communicating on the network, possibly due to a disconnected cable, incorrect network settings, a
malfunctioning network device, etc..
4. Press Apply to accept your entries.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-73

Email Configuration
The Email Configuration page (see Figure 2.54) allows you to configure email parameters (e.g.,
server name and port number).
Figure 2.54: User Settings - Configuring Email
Procedure to configure emails:
1. Open the User Settings page by pressing Menu > User Settings in the Home page.
2. Select the Email Configuration option (left-side of the screen) to display related information
and associated parameters in the center of the screen.
3. Enter the following parameters:
• Email Server - The email server name depends on your network setup variables (see
"Setting up the network", on page 2-72). If your network is set to Static IP, then enter
your outgoing mail server’s IP address. If your network is set to DHCP, then enter your
outgoing mail server’s IP address or DNS.
• Port Number - Enter the information that will identify the senders and receivers of
messages. Typically, this is set to 25 for SNMP systems.
Page 2-74 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Transmittter Name - Enter an identification for the transmitter/station (e.g.,

NX300_WXYZ). This name will be included in notifiaction emails.
• Sender Email Address- Enter as a standard email address (e.g., a@b.com), This is the
address that will appear in the “From:” line in any email notification received from the
transmitter. It should be an email registered with the email server.
• Authentication Required - If your email server requires authentication to send emails, click
the check box and enter the appropriate Username and Password to allow this. If the
check box is not selected, the Username and Password fields do not appear. Only TLS
secured SMTP servers are supported.
• Username - Enter the username for your outgoing email server.
• Password - Enter the password or your outgoing email server.
NOTE: The transmitter will automatically handle encryption if the associated mail server requires it.
4. When complete click Apply or click Cancel to restore the previous settings. Use the Test
button to enter an email address to test your settings. Enter the email address destination for
the test mail and click the OK button to send the test email or the Cancel button to return
to the Email Configuration page.
5. Select a new User Settings option or press X to exit this page.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-75

Notifications
The Notifications page (see Figure 2.55) allows you to configure the email notifications that are sent
to represent upon user-selected alarm occurrences.
Figure 2.55: User Settings - Notifications
Add a notification
notification devices
Use arrows to add or remove alarms

to be associated with this notification
Procedure to configure notifications:
2. Select the Notifications option (left-side of the screen) to display a list of pre-existing
notifications on the right-side of the screen.
3. Choose from the following options:
• Select an existing notification and press Edit to update/edit the notification list with
more information. A window opens where you identify the alarms you wish to update
from an established list.
• Press Add to add/create a notification. A window opens where you identify the alarms
you wish to add to the list of notifications.
Page 2-76 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Select an existing notification and press Delete to remove a notification from the list.
The window that opens for both Add and Update allows you to edit a notification
name, a recipient email address, and the notification device. Use the arrows (>> and <<)
to select alarms by moving them from the “Available Alarms” list to the “Selected
Alarms” list.
4. Repeat the previous step, as required, for each notification.
5. When finished, press OK to accept your entries or press Cancel ignore your changes, exit
this window.
6. Select another option in the User Settings page or press X to exit the page.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-77

Configuring Exgine settings

The Exgine Settings option allows you to set signal parameters and determine IP information for use
with the Exgine option (see Figure 2.56, Figure 2.57, Figure 2.58 ).
Procedure to configure Exgine settings:
2. Select the Exgine Configuration option (left-side of the screen) to display a list of pre-existing
notifications in the center of the screen. The Exgine window has multiple tabs (IP, Mode and
Tuning) that you display by selecting the tab.
3. In the IP tab (see Figure 2.56), enter the following parameters and press Apply.
• Protocol - Selects the E2X protocol to use UDP or TCP. Match this setting to the exporter configuration.
• Exgine IP, Netmask and Gateway - Configure the Exgine's IP network parameters as assigned by the local
network administrator. If no gateway is used or assigned, enter 0.0.0.0.
• Exporter IP - Enter the exporter's IP address of the interface where the data stream is originating. It is used
to filter E2X traffic in case multiple exporters are used in broadcast mode on a single LAN. 0.0.0.0 is also a
valid configuration.
• E2X Port - The exgine expects E2X on port 9000. Some non-Nautel Exporters utilize port 11000
instead.
• Mac Address - Displays a number that serves as unique network adapter identifier. This is set by
the manufacturer and is displayed for informational purposes only. It may be necessary to use this
number to allow the AUI to access your network
Figure 2.56: User Settings - Exgine Settings - IP Tab
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4. In the Mode tab (see Figure 2.57), enter the following parameters and press Apply.
• Default Service Mode - select MA1 or MA3
• Digital Carriers - select On or Off
• Enhanced Carriers - select On or Off
• Analog Transmission - select On or Off
• Analog Bandwidth - select 5kHz, 8kHz or Bypassed
• Enhanced Power Levels - select High or Low
• PIDS Power Levels - select High or Low
Figure 2.57: User Settings - Exgine Settings - Mode Tab
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-79

5. In the Tuning tab (see Figure 2.58), enter the following parameters and press Apply.
• Analog Gain - a linear scale fatcor which scales the analog modulation level with respect to the
carrier level. Normally set to 1.0 with a 0 dBFS audio signal applied to the Exporter.
• Upper Primary Level Adjust - Adjusts the power level of the upper sideband within the range of
+20dB and -100 dB. Should be zero by default.
• Lower Primary Level Adjust - Adjusts the power level of the lower sideband within the range of
+20dB and -100 dB. Should be zero by default.
Figure 2.58: User Settings - Exgine Settings - Tuning Tab
Refer to the NX50 Troubleshooting Manual for examples of the Exgine interface menu screens.
Page 2-80 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

SNMP Configuration
The SNMP configuration page provides a user with a means to configure the SNMP agent and the
associated traps (see Figure 2.59).
Figure 2.59: User Settings - SNMP Configuration - Agent Tab
Agent Settings
Using the Agent tab you can configure the SNMP agent as follows:
1. Enter the five fields, noting the following:
• Agent Port: Enter the UDP port where the SNMP agent checks for requests. The default
setting is 161. If your transmitter is behind a firewall, you must open this port to use
SNMP.
• Read Community: Enter the password for the SNMP client application to allow
acquisition of channel values. Provide confirmation of this password in the Confirm
field.
• Write Community: Enter the password for the SNMP client application to allow changing
of channel values. Provide confirmation of this password in the Confirm field.
2. Click the Enable Traps check box to allow the SNMP agent to send trap notifications. Enter
the two additional fields as follows:
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-81

• Trap Receiver IP: Enter the IP address of the computer to which the SNMP agent will
send trap notifications. The computer must be running an SNMP application that is
configured to receive traps. The SNMP agent will send trap notifications to at most one
receiver.
• Trap Receiver Port: Enter the UDP port where the SNMP agent will send traps. The
default setting is 162.
3. When complete click Apply or click Cancel to restore the previous settings.
Traps Settings
A trap is a message sent by an SNMP agent to an SNMP client when an alarm changes state (turns on
or off). The message is an SNMP packet that can be interpreted and displayed by an SNMP client
application. Using the Traps tab (see Figure 2.60) select your desired traps as follows:
1. Find the desired alarm(s) by selecting the appropriate Device type (Controller, Exciter, Rack,
etc.) and scrolling through the Available Traps list. Add or remove traps to and from the
Selected Traps list using the >> and << arrow buttons
2. When complete click Apply or click Cancel to restore the previous setting.
Figure 2.60: User Settings - SNMP Configuration - Traps Tab
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Critical Parameters
This feature is available through the remote AUI only.
You can capture critical parameter data for the transmitter’s current state using the AUI’s Critical
Parameters page (see Figure 2.61). To view this page, select Critical Parameters from the User
Settings page. From this page, you can click Capture Meters (reads all meter values), Capture
Alarms (reads all active alarms), Capture Presets (reads current preset) and Capture Settings (reads
current settings, e.g., active exciter, threshold settings, scale factors, etc.). Once you click the Capture
button, you can click the associated Copy button to copy the data to your Windows clipboard. The
data copies in a tab-delimited format and is ideally suited for pasting into an Excel spreadsheet. Click
X in the upper, right corner to close this page and return to the home page.
Figure 2.61: User Settings - Critical Parameters
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-83

Time Setup
There is an internal clock on the transmitter that has a backup battery and maintains the accurate time
and date even during power outages. The Time Setup page contains editable fields for the date
(month, day and year) and time (hours, minutes,and seconds), which is shown on the main screen of
the AUI and used for stamping log entries. The clock operates in 24-hour format (Figure 2.62).
Set the time and date when the transmitter is first installed, and if the backup battery fails.
Figure 2.62: User Settings - Time Setup
The Time Setup option allows users to set the exact time and date information as well as regional and
timezone settings for a tranmitter location. All data received from the AUI server (i.e., logs) are time-
stamped in UTC time. Setting the time zone information allows this timestamp to be adjusted for the
user-specific time zone.
Procedure to set up the time and date:
1. Select the Time Setup option from the left side of the User Settings page to open a related
window on the right side of the page.
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2. Enter the following Time and Date parameters and press Apply.
• Time - enter the hour (24-hour clock), minutes (up to 60), and seconds (up to 60).
• Date - select values from the drop-down menus beside Day, Month, and Year.
3. Enter the following location parameters and press Apply:
• Timezone - select the appropriate timezone from the drop-down menu
• Region - select the appropriate region from the drop-down menu
• Country - select the appropriate country from the drop-down menu
• Zone - select the appropriate zone from the drop-down menu
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-85

NTP Servers
You can configure one or more NTP (Network Time Protocol) servers to allow clock
synchronization with all computers on the same network as the NX50. To view the AUI’s NTP
Servers page (see Figure 2.63), select NTP Servers from the User Settings options. There are several
functions available on this page - enabling NTP, monitoring NTP server status and managing servers.
NOTE: The accuracy of the NTP synchronization is related to the distance to the server. For this
reason, Nautel recommends that you choose servers in the same country as the equipment. If this is
not possible, attempt to get servers from the same continent.
Figure 2.63: User Settings - NTP Servers
Enabling NTP
Enable the NTP function by selecting the Enable NTP checkbox. Disable by de-selecting the Enable
NTP checkbox. Click the Apply button to activate any change.
Monitoring NTP Servers

The NTP Server Status section displays tabular information on the NTP servers connected to the
network. The table includes remote name, IP address, delay, offset and jitter.
• Remote Name: Displays the host name of the referenced time source. An asterisk (*) in
the first column marks the reference time source that is currently preferred by the NTP
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daemon. A ‘+” character in the first column marks high quality candidates for the
reference time that could be used if the currently selected reference becomes unavailable.
• IP: Displays the IP address associated with the Remote Name. In some cases the
Remote Name could be the IP address.
• Delay: Displays the round-trip delay (in ms) of the time queries.
• Offset: Displays the difference (in ms) between the reference time and the system clock.
• Jitter: Displays the magnitude of jitter (in ms) between several time queries.
Managing NTP Servers

The Manage Servers section displays the NTP server files that have been added. You can Add to the
list of NTP servers or Delete a selected NTP server from the list.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-87

Setting call sign/ID

The Call Sign/ID screen (see Figure 2.64) can be used to set a name that can be used to identify the
transmitter on the AUI. This identification will be displayed on the top banner of the AUI page (e.g.,
“NX200”).
Enter the call sign or ID in the field and press Apply (maximum 15 characters in length).
Figure 2.64: User Settings - Call Sign/ID
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System Settings page

You determine critical system configuration parameters using the System Settings page (see
Figure 2.65), which you access from the Menu page.
• "Reset", on page 2-90

• "Upgrade software", on page 2-92
• "Screen configuration", on page 2-91 (available on front panel AUI only)
• "Exciter Clock Calibration", on page 2-93
• "RF Monitor Level", on page 2-94
• "Power Lockout", on page 2-95
• "Power Thresholds", on page 2-96
Figure 2.65: System Settings Page
To use this page, select an item from the list on the left-side of the page to open related information
on the right side of the page.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-89

Reset
The Reset page (see Figure 2.66) allows you to reboot two items - the AUI and the active exciter.
Figure 2.66: System Settings - Reset
Procedure to reset the AUI or Exciter:
1. Select the Reset option from the left side of the System Settings page to open a related
2. Reset the items by pressing the appropriate key.
• To reset the AUI (avanced user interface), press Reboot AUI.
• To reset the active exciter press Reboot Active Exciter.
After rebooting a component you may need to log in to the transmitter AUI once again (see "Logging
into the AUI", on page 2-3).
Page 2-90 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Screen configuration
The Screen Configuration page (see Figure 2.67), available on the local AUI only, allows you to
perform a calibration on the touchscreen and to configure a screen saver for the local AUI.
Figure 2.67: System Settings - Screen Configuration (local AUI only)
Procedure to calibrate the touchscreen:
1. Select the Screen Configuration option on the left side of the System Settings page to
open a related window on the right side of the page.
2. Press the Touchscreen Calibration button. This will initiate a calibration screen, where
you will be prompted to sequentially touch three targets from a position of normal use.
Touch each target. After the third target, the calibration is complete and the screen display
returns to the Screen Configuration page.
Procedure to configure a screen saver:
1. Select the Screen Configuration option on the left side of the System Settings page to
2. To enable a screen saver, press the Screen Saver Enabled check box. This allows you to set
the Screen Saver Timeout period (between 10 and 180 minutes; default is 10 minutes) by
pressing in the Minutes field and entering, using the numeric keypad that appears, the
desired timeout period.
3. Press the Apply button to activate the change. The screen saver is now enabled. If the
timeout period lapses between local AUI screen touches, the AUI screen will switch to
screen saver mode (black screen). Touch the screen to restore the last AUI page.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-91

Upgrade software
The Upgrade Software page allows for uploading software upgrade files for various transmitter
components (e.g., System Controller, AUI, etc). Navigate the page as described below. For more
detailed information, see "Upgrading software", on page 4-1 of this manual.
Figure 2.68: System Settings - Upgrade Software
Select the Upgrade Software option from the left side of the System Settings page to open a
related window on the right side of the page. The page consists of the following sections and buttons:
• Current Version - indicates the current software version.

• Select Upgrade File - displays the upgrade files that have been uploaded to the transmitter.
• Details - opens a window containing information about the installed software. If an upgarde
file is selected, the screen will show a comparison between the installed version and the
selected upgrade by component. identical items are shown in green; different items are
shown in red. You can also view the details of the previous upgrade by pressing the View
Last Upgrade checkbox.
• History - displays a window containing a history of the upgrades to the software. Press the +
button to expand the details of the software. You can save this information to disk as a txt
file from the remote AUI.
• Start Upgrade - begins the process of upgrading the current software with the selected
upgrade file.
• Manage Files (available through the remote AUI only) - opens a window displaying the files you
can upload to upgrade the software. You can add or delete files from this list using the
Browse, Upload and Delete buttons in the window.
Press Done when you are finished to exit the window and return to the Upgrade Software page.
Page 2-92 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Exciter Clock Calibration

The Exciter Clock Calibration page (see Figure 2.69) allows you to calibrate the internal clock
reference to an external 10 MHz clock by pressing the Calibrate button. Both exciters are calibrated
at the same time. Note: typically, a value change is not required.
The exciter clock may also be synchronized to a reference source, either an external 10 MHz
reference connected to A11A1J8 or a Nautel optional GPS sync PWB. The frequency and phase
option is applicable for combined systems only. The exciter reference will lock to the external source
frequency within 10 mHz (0.01 Hz) using the 10 MHz sync input, to within 2 mHz (0.002 Hz) using
the GPS sync card without an antenna, and to within the the quality of the GPS system when using
the GPS sync card with an antenna.
Figure 2.69: System Settings - Exciter Clock Calibration
Enable/Disable Frequency
If Disabled (default), no other

settings are required.
If Frequency, select Sync Source

(10MHz Sync Input or GPS Sync
Card). Selecting GPS Sync Card
also displays the Antenna Present
drop-down field (select Yes or No)
If Frequency and Phase (combined

systems only), enter Phase Offset.
Procedure to calibrate the exciter clock:
1. Select the Exciter Clock Calibration option from the left side of the System Settings
page to open a related window on the right side of the page.
2. Connect an external 10 MHz source to A11A1J8, verify a value near 10 MHz displays in
both External Clock Frequency fields, and press Calibrate.
Procedure to synchronize the exciter clock:
1. Select the Exciter Clock Calibration option from the left side of the System Settings
page to open a related window on the right side of the page.
2. Connect a source (10 MHz input or GPS sync).
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-93

3. Select Frequency in the Sync Enable drop-down menu.
4. Select the appropriate source (10MHz Sync Input or GPS Sync Card) in the Sync Source
drop-down menu.
RF Monitor Level
The RF Monitor Level page allows you to set values for the Gain at Full Power (in dB) (see
Figure 2.70) on the amplifier that drives the RF Monitor output. The RF monitor is factory set to
provide a level of 5 V rms into 50 ohm (27 dBm).
The Current Gain value is shown for reference. Increase the gain to increase the RF monitor output
level; decrease the gain to decrease the RF monitor output level. The transmitter will attempt to
maintain this level at all power set points (see Figure 2.70 on page 2-94):
Figure 2.70: System Settings - RF Monitor Level
Procedure to set the RF monitor level:
1. Select the RF Monitor Level option from the left side of the System Settings page to
2. Observe the Current Gain value and its corresponding RF monitor level (measured). Enter
the new Gain at Full Power value to increase or decrease the RF monitor level.
3. Press Apply. Verify the measured RF monitor level is as desired. Readjust as necessary.
Page 2-94 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Power Lockout
The Power Lockout page (see Figure 2.72) allows you to set a high power limit for the transmitter.
There is provision to set up to eight different limits (which can be used to accommodate daytime/
night-time patterns or different antennae), but only the selected limit is active. You can also select a
high power limit using a digital remote input (see Digital inputs on page 2-117).
The transmitter power cannot increase beyond the active limit. For analog and hybrid modes of
operation the displayed power limits represent carrier power. For DRM mode, the displayed power
limits represent RMS power. If the active preset set point is greater than the active lockout limit, a
High Power Lockout alarm will appear on the Transmitter Status page.
For basic transmitter operation, you must configure and enable at least one of the eight high power
limits. Max Power Lockout 1 is factory set for the transmitter’s maximum output power. Set up a power
lockout as follows:
Figure 2.71: System Settings - Power Lockout
1. Select Power Lockout from the left side of the System Settings page to open a related
2. Select the desired Active Power Lockout (Max Power Lockout 1 through 8) from the drop-
down menu
3. Enter the desired Power Lockout level for each of the eight lockout options, noting it will
represent the maximum allowable power level.
4. Press Apply to activate the change(s) or press Cancel to abort.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-95

Power Thresholds
The Power Thresholds page (see Figure 2.72) allows you to set two distinct low forward power
thresholds the transmitter. These thresholds are for monitoring purposes only. The transmitter will
not shut back if these thresholds are crossed, but alarm notifications are generated for each of the
two thresholds (Low Forward Power Threshold 1 and Low Forward Power Threshold 2) on the
Transmitter Status page.
Figure 2.72: System Settings - Power Thresholds
1. Select Power Thresholds from the left side of the System Settings page to open a related
2. Enter the desired low power threshold level for each of the two options, noting the level
represents the percentage of the normal operating setpoint. The default settings for Low
Forward Power Threshold 1 and 2 are 50% and 25%, respectively.
3. Press Apply to activate the change(s) or press Cancel to abort.
Page 2-96 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Precorrection Settings page

You control various critical parameter functions using the Precorrection page(see Figure 2.73),
which you access from the Menu page .
NOTE: These settings will normally be generated at the factory, based on the desired modes of
operation, and should not require user adjustment.
• "Mag-Phase Delay", on page 2-98

• "B+ Setpoint", on page 2-99
• "AM-AM Correction", on page 2-100
• "AM-PM Correction", on page 2-101
• "Envelope Equalization", on page 2-102
• "Configurations", on page 2-103
• "Exciter Synchronization", on page 2-105
Figure 2.73: Precorrection Settings Page
To use this page, select an item from the list on the left-side of the page to open related information
on the right side of the page.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-97

Mag-Phase Delay
The Mag-Phase Delay page (see Figure 2.74) allows for setting the difference in delay between the
magnitude (PDM) path and phase (RF drive) path in the exciter. Changing this delay can help to level
out and minimize spectral regrowth, providing improved spectral performance and increased margin
under the mask. Typically, the delay is set between 0 and 1 us. Use the spectrum analyzer instrument
panel displayed in this section to verify applied changes are satisfactory.
The value is factory set and changes are not typically required unless the antenna (load) network has
changed. Minor adjustments may be required to optimize IBOC or DRM spectral performance. If so,
enter the Phase Delay value (between -10 us and +10 us) and press Apply.
Figure 2.74: Precorrection - Mag-Phase Delay
marker
tools to move the

marker and display
information
Jump close
ahead
backward
one step zoom-in/
zoom-out
forward
one step
Page 2-98 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

B+ Setpoint
The B+ Setpoint page (see Figure ) allows you to identify the B+ Setpoint (nominally 400 V). This
value does not normally require user adjustment.
Figure 2.75: Precorrection - B+ setpoint
Enter the value and press Apply.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-99

AM-AM Correction
The AM-AM Correction page (see Figure 2.76) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-AM
correction curves. You can Load or Delete curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When
you select Capture, the AM-AM Correction window is displayed. Press Done to capture the curve,
type a name for the curve, then press Save (or Cancel).
CAUTION:
Making changes to the AM-AM Correction curves automatically places the
transmitter in analog AM mode, with full-scale sine-wave modulation. To avoid
undesirable output or possible antenna damage, it is highly recommended that
you perform these calibrations while operating the transmitter into a test load.
Value changes are not typically required. Up to three curves can be saved in memory.
AM-AM curves correct for a type of non-linearity where a change in input amplitude does not cause
a linearly proportional change in output amplitude. By applying a test signal and monitoring the
output of the transmitter, the exciter will generate a table of values describing the required gain versus
input signal level in an attempt to find the inverse curve to the AM-AM non-linearity, and provide a
more linear amplifier. Applying the proper AM-AM correction will result in lower audio distortion
and better spectral performace in digital modes of operation.
Figure 2.76: Precorrection AM-AM
Page 2-100 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

AM-PM Correction
The AM-PM Correction page (see Figure 2.77) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-PM
correction curves. You can Load or Delete curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When you
select Capture, the AM-PM Correction instrument panel is displayed. Press Done to capture the
curve, type a name for the curve, then press Save (or Cancel).
CAUTION:
Making changes to the AM-PM Correction curves automatically places the
transmitter in analog AM mode, with full-scale sine-wave modulation. To avoid
undesirable output or possible antenna damage, it is highly recommended that
you perform these calibrations while operating the transmitter into a test load.
Value changes are not typically required.
AM-PM curves correct for a type of non-linearity where a change in input amplitude causes a change
in phase. By applying a test signal and monitoring the output of the transmitter, the exciter will
generate a table of values defining the required phase offset versus input signal level in an attempt to
find the inverse curve to the AM-PM non-linearity, and provide a more linear amplifier. Applying the
proper AM-PM correction will result in better spectral performace in digital modes of operation.
Figure 2.77: Precorrection AM-PM
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-101

Envelope Equalization
The Envelope Equalization page (see Figure 2.78) allows you to load or capture a set of envelope
equalization curves. You can Load or Delete curves in the list; you can also capture a curve. When
you select Capture, the EQ Frequency Response window is displayed. Press Done to capture the
curve, type a name for the curve, then press Save (or Cancel).
CAUTION:
Selecting the Wide Band Noise training signal (see Figure 2.78) applies full-scale
white noise modulation. To avoid undesirable output or possible antenna
damage, it is highly recommended that you perform these calibrations while
operating the transmitter into a test load.
Value changes are not typically required.
Envelope equalization curves correct for the frequency response of the magnitude path, dominated
by the response of the modulator filter. By applying a test signal and monitoring the output of the
transmitter, the exciter will use an LMS (Least Mean Squares) algorithm to generate a filter in an
attempt to find a complementary response to the frequency response of the magnitude path (out to
approximately 70 kHz). Applying the proper equalization curve will result in a flatter frequency
response, and improved spectral performance in digital modes of operation, where the frequency
content of the magnitude signal can be significant, as far out as 100 kHz..
Figure 2.78: Precorrection Envelope Equalization
Wide Band Noise

Current Input
Page 2-102 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Configurations
The Configurations page (see Figure 2.79) allows users to group the parameters that appear within
the Precorrection Settings menu.
Figure 2.79: Precorrection - Configurations
Edit button appears for local users

in Local mode or for remote users in
Remote mode.
View button appears otherwise

(cannot edit in this case).
Once a configuration is created, it can be used in a preset. This allows the user to change the pre-
correction settings based on the operating mode via the preset. Configurations are normally
established at the factory, based on customer operating modes, and do not require adjustment.
Procedure to edit or create a configuration:
1. Select the Configuration option from the left side of the Precorrection Settings page to
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-103

2. Any existing configurations (e.g., Default Config 1610 kHz) will appear in the list. The active
configuration, if applicable, is highlighted in green. You can view or edit existing
configurations by pressing Edit, if available. You can also create a new configuration by
pressing Add or remove a configuration by pressing Delete. You must have Administrator
user account permission to edit, add or delete configurations.
3. If you press Edit (View) or Add, the Configuration Details window appears (see
Figure 2.79 on page 2-103). In this screen you can enter or select the appropriate parameters
for your desired configuration, including Name, Mag-Phase Delay, B+ Level, AM-AM
Curve, AM-PM Curve and EQ Curve. When you are finished editing or creating the
configuration, press OK to save the configuration or press Cancel to return to the
Precorrection Settings page. Your new configuration should appear in the
Configurations list.
Procedure to add a configuration to a preset:
1. Select the Presets option from the Menu page to open the Presets page.
2. Press the Load button to select the preset that you want to edit.
3. In the General tab, select the Configuration field’s drop-down menu and select the desired
configuration for that preset Press Save to overwrite the existing preset or Save New to
create a new preset. NOTE: you can edit a preset without making it active (see "Presets -
editing operational settings", on page 2-48).
Page 2-104 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Exciter Synchronization
The Exciter Synchronization page (see Figure 2.80) displays correction curve and configuration
settings stored on each exciter and allows users to synchronize the settings between exciters A and B.
When AM-AM correction, AM-PM correction and EQ curves and configurations are created, they
are stored in the active exciter. It may be necessary to copy these settings to the standby exciter, or in
some cases to an exciter that has been replaced.
Figure 2.80: Precorrection - Exciter Synchronization
Items in green indicate the correction curve or configurationis identical for both exciter.
Items in red indicate a difference or a correction curve or configuration that is on one exciter only.
Press Sync A -> B to copy settings stored on exciter A to exciter B.
Press Sync B -> A to copy settings stored on exciter B to exciter A.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-105

Changeover page - changing exciter transfer settings

The Changeover page (see Figure 2.81), accessed from the Menu page, allows control of exciter
auto-changeover.
Figure 2.81: Changeover Page
On this page, set the following exciter information:
• Active Exciter - indicates the exciter that is currently active.
• Main Exciter - indicates (in green) which exciter is considered to be the primary exciter.
Select A or B. The default exciter is A if the Standby Exciter is set to No. NOTE: Changing
the setting may change the active exciter.
• Auto Exciter Changeover - indicates (in green) if automatic exciter changeover is enabled.
Select Yes if automatic changeover is desired or No if user selected changeover is desired.
NOTE: you cannot change the setting if the Standby Exciter is set to No.
• Standby Exciter - identifies whether or not a standby exciter is available. This is factory set
and only requires adjustment if an exciter is removed or not functional. Yes indicates that a
standby operation is available or desired. No indicates that a standby operation is not
available or desired.
Page 2-106 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Factory Settings
Values for critical parameters are set using the Factory Settings page (see Figure 2.82), which you
access from the Menu page. To use this page, simply select an item from the list on the left-side of
the page to open related information on the right side of the page.
WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any
adjustment. These settings affect critical system protections. Making changes to these
settings may void your warranty. Contact Nautel before making changes.
For future reference, record a parameter value before and after making a change.
• "Audio Inputs", on page 2-108

• "B+ Calibration", on page 2-109
• "Forward/Reflected Power", on page 2-110
• "RF Symmetry", on page 2-111
• "SWR Thresholds", on page 2-112
• "Transmitter Type", on page 2-113
• "Transmitter Frequency", on page 2-114
• "PDM Settings", on page 2-115
Figure 2.82: Factory Settings Page
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-107

Audio Inputs
The Audio Inputs page (see Figure 2.83) displays the measured level of the Balanced Analog source
(in dBm).
The balanced calibration field allows for establishing a reference from a known source.
WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment.
These settings affect critical system protections. Making changes to these settings may void your
warranty. Contact Nautel before making changes.
Figure 2.83: Factory Settings - Audio Inputs
Page 2-108 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

B+ Calibration
The B+ Calibration page (see Figure 2.84) displays the measured B+ levels, the B+ Limit Setpoint
(high voltage alarm level; nominally 420 V) and a calibration box. The B+ calibration value allows you
to enter a measured B+ voltage to calibrate the B+ based on an externally measured B+ level.
Figure 2.84: Factory Settings - B+ Calibration
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-109

Forward/Reflected Power
The Forward/Reflected Power page (see Figure 2.85) allows the forward/reflected power to be
calibrated based on the filter lag, the ideal PA impedance (magnitude and phase), the test load
impedance and the measured RF current. Nautel sets these values at the factory. Value changes are
not typically required unless you are performing a frequency change.
Figure 2.85: Factory Settings - Forward/Reflected Power
Page 2-110 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

RF Symmetry
The RF Symmetry page (see Figure 2.86) allows entering RF symmetry values for exciter A or B to
attempt to minimize second harmonic content when operating on each exciter. Values are factory set
and should not require adjustment.
Figure 2.86: Factory Settings - RF Symmetry
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-111

SWR Thresholds
The SWR Thresholds page (see Figure 2.87) displays the Peak Reflected Limit, RMS Reflected
Limit and the Peak RF Current Limit. Value changes are not typically required.
Figure 2.87: Factory Settings - SWR Thresholds
Page 2-112 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Transmitter Type
The Transmitter Type page (see Figure 2.88) displays the selected transmitter type. The selection is
based on the power capacity of the transmitter and is set at the factory during testing.
Figure 2.88: Factory Settings - Transmitter Type
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-113

Transmitter Frequency
The Transmitter Frequency page (see Figure 2.89) displays the precise carrier frequency of the
transmitter. Do not change the carrier frequency unless you are performing a frequency change
procedure.
Figure 2.89: Factory Settings - Transmitter Frequency
Page 2-114 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

PDM Settings
The PDM Settings page (see Figure 2.90) displays the selected PDM settings. The selection is based
on the PDM configuration of the transmitter and is set at the factory during product testing. PDM
Phase Calibration may be required after replacing or moving RF power modules. See the “Replacing
a Power Module” section of the NX50 Troubleshooting Manual for more information.
Figure 2.90: Factory Settings - PDM Settings
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-115

Remote I/O page

The Remote I/O page (see Figure 2.91), accessible from the Menu page, allows you to configure your
remote input/output interface for the transmitter. Click X in the upper, right corner to close this page
and return to the home page.
Refer also to the NX50 Pre-installation Manual for information on remote inputs and outputs and
their factory default settings.
• "Digital inputs", on page 2-117
• "Digital outputs", on page 2-119
Figure 2.91: Remote I/O Page
Page 2-116 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Digital inputs
In the Remote I/O page, use the Inputs tab parameters (see Figure 2.92) to configure up to 16 digital
inputs that allow you to remotely control various operational characteristics of the transmitter.
Unless otherwise noted these inputs are only accepted by the transmitter if the Remote/Local status
(bottom panel of any AUI page) is set to Remote. That setting can only be selected by a local user
using the front panel AUI.
Nautel sets digital input defaults prior to shipping. See the NX50 Pre-installation Manual for details. If
necessary, re-configure the digital inputs as follows:
Figure 2.92: Remote I/O Input Parameters

Input tab Exit page
Current
logic level
1. On the left side of the page, select the desired digital input (1 through 16) from the list. Note:
you can configure digital inputs 1 through 16 for one of a variety of control inputs.
2. On the right side of the page, assign a name to the digital input by pressing the Channel bar
and selecting one of the following options:
• Not Assigned - has no effect on transmitter operation, regardless of logic level.

• RF On/Off - tells the system to provide RF power, if possible (same as pressing the RF On or
the Rf Off button on the AUI).
• Reset - causes a system reset.
• Inc/Dec RF Power - tells the system to increase (if possible) or decrease output carrier power.
• Main Exciter - selects the main exciter to operate the transmitter.
• Auto Exciter Changeover - sets the exciter changeover function to operate automatically.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-117

• Scheduler On/Off- enables/disables the automatic mode scheduler.

• Max Power Lockout 1 - 8 - selects the associated power lockout limit (1 - 8) as active
(functions regardless of local/remote mode).
• Preset: (name) - selects the appropriate operating preset as active.
3. The Level bar displays the input’s current logic level (1 or 0).
4. Configure the active/inactive control for each of the 16 digital inputs. Press the arrow beside
the Control bar to display the following drop-down menu options:
• Rising Edge, Turn On/Reset/Set To A/Set To B. Logic ‘1’ (high or rising edge) activates the
input (or causes a reset, as appropriate).
• Falling Edge, Turn On/Reset/Set To A/Set To B. Logic ‘0’ (low or trailing edge) activates the
input (or causes a reset, as appropriate).
• Rising Edge, Turn Off. Logic ‘1’ (high or rising edge) de-activates the input.
• Falling Edge, Turn Off. Logic ‘0’ (low or trailing edge) de-activates the input.
• Falling Edge, Toggle. Logic ‘0’ (low or trailing edge) de-activates the input; next logic ‘0’ (low
or trailing edge) activates the input.
• Rising Edge, Toggle. Logic ‘1’ (high or rising edge) activates the input; next logic ‘1’ (high or
rising edge) de-activates the input.
• Rising Edge, Turn On/Set To B. Falling Edge Turn Off/Set To A. Logic ‘1’ (high or rising
edge) activates the input; logic ‘0’ (low or trailing edge) de-activates the input.
• Falling Edge, Turn On/Set To B. Rising Edge Turn Off/Set to A. Logic ‘0’ (low or trailing
edge) activates the input; logic ‘1’ (high or rising edge) de-activates the input.
• Active High, Increase. Logic ‘1’ (high) causes a power increase or turns on the feature.
• Active Low, Increase. Logic ‘0’ (low) causes a power increase.
• Active High, Decrease. Logic ‘1’ (high) causes a power decrease.
• Active Low, Decrease. Logic ‘0’ (low) causes a power decrease.
• Active High, Turn On. Logic ‘1’ (high) activates the input.
• Active Low, Turn On. Logic ‘0’ (low) activates the input.
5. When the input settings are complete, press Apply to accept and activate these changes or
press Cancel to cancel them and return to the previous settings.
6. To exit the page, press X (top right).
Page 2-118 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Digital outputs
Using the parameters from the Outputs tab (see Figure 2.93), you can configure up to 16 digital
outputs that indicate either the presence of various alarms or the status of operator controlled
circuits.
Nautel sets digital output defaults prior to shipping. See the NX50 Pre-installation Manual for details. If
necessary, re-configure the digital outputs as follows:
Figure 2.93: Remote I/O - Output Parameters

Outputs tab Exit page
Current
logic level
1. On the left side of the page, select the desired digital output (1 through 16) from the list.
Note: you can configure digital outputs 1 through 16 for one of a variety of monitoring
outputs.
2. On the right side of the page, assign a name to the digital output by pressing Channel and
selecting one of the following options:
• Not Assigned - No alarm or status parameter is monitored.

• Local/Remote - Active logic level indicates the transmitter is in local control. Inactive logic
level indicates the transmitter is in remote control.
• RF On/Off - Active logic level indicates the transmitter’s RF power stage is on (enabled).
Inactive logic level indicates the transmitter’s RF power stage is off.
• Active Exciter - Active logic level indicates that exciter A is active. Inactive logic level indi-
cates that exciter B is active.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-119

• Auto Exciter Changeover - Active logic level indicates that the automatic exciter change-
over function is enabled.
• Main Exciter - Active logic level indicates that exciter A is selected as the main exciter. Inac-
tive logic level indicates that exciter B is selected as the main exciter.
• Scheduler On/Off- Active logic level indicates that the automatic mode scheduler is enabled
or disabled.
• Various Alarms - Active logic level indicates that the selected alarm is occurring. Any
transmitter alarm can be selected as a digital output. Refer to the NX50 Troubleshooting
Manual for a description of each alarm.
• AUI Watchdog - Active logic level indicates that a watchdog reset is occurring, due to an
error in communication between the Controller and the single-board computer. The reset is
confiigured using the AUI’s User Settings page.
* Reset Immediately: Reset will occur immediately after a communications error.
* Disable Reset: No reset will occur.
* Custom Delay (default setting): Reset will occur after a communications error, but after a user-
defined delay. If selected enter the delay, in minutes (factory set to 2 minutes).
• Max Power Lockout 1 - 8 - Active logic level indicates that a power lockout has been
enabled, either through the AUI’s System Settings page or by a remote digital input.
• Preset: (name) - Active logic level indicates that the associated preset is active.
• Invalid Preset - Active logic level indicates the current active preset is not a saved preset.
• Remote Input - Mimics the logic of the associated remote input selection. Example: If
Remote Output 5 is set to Remote Input, it will mimic the logic received on remote input pin
5. This is typically used for debugging remote inputs.
3. The Level bar displays the input’s current logic level (1 or 0).
4. Configure the active/inactive control for each of the 16 digital outputs. Press the arrow
beside the Control bar to display the drop-down menu options that are appropriate for the
selected Channel.
Example: if the selected channel is RF On/Off, the drop-down options are:
• Output Low When RF Off - Logic ‘0’ (low) indicates the output is true (RF is off); Logic ‘1’
(high) indicates the output is false (RF is on).
• Output Low When RF On - Logic ‘0’ (low) indicates the output is true (RF is on); Logic ‘1’
(high) indicates the output is false (RF is off).
5. Press the Level bar and select 1 or 0 as the logic level.
6. When the output settings are complete, press Apply to accept and activate these changes or
press Cancel to cancel them and return to the previous settings.
7. To exit the page, press X (top right).
Page 2-120 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Playlist Manager
The built-in audio player (see Figure 2.94) can use a file playlist, Livewire or Icecast as an audio
source. These sources must be configured before they can be used. This section describes how to
configure audio player sources. To view the Playlist Manager page, select Playlist from the Menu
page options.
Using the audio player in the NX50 requires the installation of the optional USB sound card. This
converts the streamed audio to a USB port on the single-board computer (SBC) to an AES stream
that can be connected to an AES input on the control card.
The Playlist Manager page has two selectable tabs:
• "Playlist", on page 2-122

• "Streams", on page 2-124
Figure 2.94: Playlist Manager page - Playlist tab shown
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-121

The playlist (or Icecast/Livewire stream) is typically used as an audio loss backup. For example, the
user may operate with Preset 1 using one of the standard audio sources. Preset 1 can be configured to
switch to another preset (e.g., Preset 2), which uses a playlist or stream, if Preset 1 loses its audio.
Playlist/stream presets can also be activated by the Scheduler (see "Preset Scheduler", on page 2-61).
Playlist
The Playlist tab (see Figure 2.95) displays the audio files and sequence that currently make up the
playlist. Only audio files that are supported (e.g., .wav or .mp3 files) will be played. For .mp3 files,
using files with bit rates equal to or greater than 96 kbps achieves best audio results. Also, you must
have the optional USB sound card installed and activate a preset that has Audio Player/AES1 or AES2
selected in the Analog Settings -> AM Source in the Presets page. There are three sections in the
Playlist tab - Playlists, Playlist Contents and Available Files on USB.
NOTE: You should not change an active (playing) playlist nor should you attempt to delete or move a
song that is currently playing. To make changes to the playlist, the audio player must be off (inactive),
or at least not being used as the active preset’s source.
The Playlists section is used for adding (Add button) and deleting (Delete button) playlists.
The Playlist Contents section is used for inserting jumps (Insert JMP button) and deleting playlist
contents (Delete button). The Insert JMP button allows the user to set up a playlist that can jump to
an item in another playlist. You can drag files up and down the Playlist Contents list and you can
drag files from the Available Files on USB list to the Playlist Contents list.
The Available Files on USB section is used for adding audio files to the playlist (Add Files button)
or refeshing the available files list (Refresh button). Audio files must be stored on an external USB
device; they are not stored in the transmitter. Only the audio files stored in the root directory of the
most recently connected USB device appear on the playlist. The list will be empty if no USB device is
connected. The USB drive must be formatted with a FAT32 file system. Click the Refresh button to
force an update of the list of files on the mounted USB.
NOTE: MPEG Layer-3 audio coding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson.
The audio player supports only one USB device at a time. If multiple USB devices are connected,
only the most recently connected USB is recognized as the active USB drive. If multiple USB devices
are connected and one is removed, both devices are unmounted.
The Manage Files button, available on the remote AUI only, displays a pop-up window that allows
the user to Browse for files and Upload them to the USB or Delete them from the USB. You should
not delete files that are part of more than one playlist.
Page 2-122 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.95: Managing Playlist files
Remote
mode
only
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-123

Streams
The NX50 is capable of playing audio streams in either Icecast or Shoutcast format.
The audio player supports Icecast/Shoutcast playlists and IP addresses for audio streams. For an
Icecast/Shoutcast playlist enter the URL for the station. For an audio stream, enter the URL for that
stream.
Figure 2.96: Playlist Manager page - Streams tab
Adding an Audio Stream
1. From the Streams tab (see Figure ), click the Add button.
2. Use the drop-down menu to select the desired Type of audio stream (only Icecast/
Shoutcast is available.
3. Enter the apropriate information for the audio server (Name and URL). Make sure the
NX50 can access the location.
4. Click OK to add the audio stream or click Cancel to discard changes.
Page 2-124 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Editing or Deleting an Audio Stream
1. From the Streams tab (see Figure 2.96 on page 2-124), select the desired audio stream from
the list. Click the Edit button to modify the audio stream or the Delete button to remove the
audio stream.
2. If you are editing an audio stream, enter the appropriate information for the audio server
(Name and URL for Icecast/Shoutcast). Make sure the NX50 can access the location.
3. Click OK to either edit or delete the audio stream, or click Cancel to discard changes.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-125

Using the safety interlock switch

A key controlled safety interlock switch box (see Figure 2.97 on page 2-127) is provided with the
NX50 transmitter to ensure operator safety. The transmitter’s rear door must be closed and locked
before ac power to the transmitter can be turned on. Similarly, ac power must be turned off before
the rear door can be opened.
Opening the transmitter’s rear door

Follow these steps to gain access to the rear of the transmitter:
1. Move the safety interlock switch to the OFF position. This allows the SERVICE KEY to be
moved. Turn the SERVICE KEY clockwise to the OFF position and remove the key from the
safety interlock switch box. When the SERVICE KEY is removed, the safety interlock switch is
locked in the OFF position.
2. Insert the SERVICE KEY into the key hole in the handle of the transmitter’s rear door and turn
the key clockwise.
3. Open the rear door of the transmitter.
Applying ac power to the transmitter

Follow these steps to close the transmitter and apply ac power:
1. Close and latch the transmitter’s rear door. Turn the SERVICE KEY counter clockwise to lock
the door. Remove the SERVICE KEY.
2. Insert the SERVICE KEY into the safety interlock switch box’s key hole and turn the key
counter clockwise to the ON position. Move the safety interlock switch to the ON position to
apply ac power to the transmitter.
Page 2-126 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 2.97: Safety Interlock Switch Operation
PANEL KEY
INSTRUCTIONS
SERVICE KEY
(shown in OFF position)
SAFETY INTERLOCK
SWITCH
(shown in OFF position)
Box style may vary depending on

ac input voltage. 100 A switch box
shown.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-127

Page 2-128 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance
Section 3: Routine maintenance

This section provides instructions for performing routine maintenance on the NX50 transmitter.
• Scheduled maintenance
• Replacing a damaged air filter - see page 3-2
• Performing on-air checks - see page 3-3
• Replacing the control/interface PWB battery - see page 3-4
• Inspecting lightning protection systems - see page 3-5
Scheduled maintenance
Scheduled maintenance consists of performing a visual inspection of the NX50 at scheduled
intervals. The recommended minimum time between scheduled maintenance visits is three months.
Local operating and environmental conditions may dictate more frequent visits, while in remote sites
less frequent visits may be acceptable. Experience and system reliability will determine the most
practical schedule for a specific installation.
Cleaning
At a minimum, follow the cleaning procedures listed below.
Note:
A site located in a dirty area using open-air cooling requires more extensive cleaning than a site
located in a clean area using closed-air cooling.
1. Clean the air filters, noting there is one in the back of each cabinet. Remove the air filters,
rinse them with water, spray them with Handi-Koter filter coat (Nautel Part # HQ59,
located in the ancillary kit), then re-install the air filters. If an air filter becomes damaged,
replace it as soon as possible. See “Replacing a damaged air filter” on page 3-2.
2. Clean the NX50 using a vacuum cleaner and a soft-bristle brush to remove loose dirt. Clean,
damp rags should be used to remove dirt that cannot be removed with a vacuum cleaner.
Never use compressed air to clean the NX50.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 3-1

Checking hardware
All hardware must be checked at least once a year. Thermal cycling from turning the NX50 on and
off will require more frequent checks.
• To prevent damaging the hardware, ensure that the proper sized tools are used. In most
cases, hardware is metric.
• A mounting surface or terminal that has changed colour indicates a loose hardware connec-
tion.
• Multi-stranded cables installed on terminal strips must be retorqued.
Battery replacement
The NX50's control/interface PWB contains a battery backup circuit that provides a memory of
alarm occurrences during ac power failure. See “Replacing the control/interface PWB battery” on
page 3-4.
Replacing a damaged air filter

If an air filter becomes damaged, replace it as follows:
Interval
As required.
Parts and tools

Replacement air filter and filter coat spray.
Procedure
Take the following steps to replace an NX50 air filter:
1. Order a new filter and filter coat spray, as necessary. You can order a standard sized filter
from Nautel (Nautel Part # HR111) or from the manufacturer (Research Products, EZ
Kleen filter # 9151) or obtain one from any local supplier of HVAC supplies.
2. Order new filter coat spray, if necessary. You can order replacement filter coat from Nautel
(Nautel Part # HQ59) or from the manufacturer (Research Products Handi-Koter adhesive
spray bottle # 412) or obtain it from any local supplier of HVAC supplies.
Page 3-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

3. Unpack the new filter and inspect it for damage.
4. Remove the old filter.
5. Apply filter coat spray (originally supplied with the transmitter) to the replacement filter.
6. Insert the new air filter into the bracket, with the sprayed side facing you.
7. Dispose of the damaged air filter.
Performing on-air checks

You should check the on-air quality of the transmitter’s signal periodically. This check can be done
locally at the transmitter site, or remotely from another location in the transmitter’s coverage area.
Interval
Every 12 months, or as required by law.
Parts and tools

• High-quality receiver compatible with the modulation scheme used on the transmitter.
Procedure
1. Monitor the transmitter signal to identify any problems:
– Use a high quality receiver to monitor audio quality.

– Check the spectral output of the transmitter using the front panel AUI’s spectrum
analyzer.
– Take a portable receiver to different locations in your coverage areas to identify any
problems with the antenna pattern or areas of localized interference.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 3-3

Replacing the control/interface PWB battery

Replace the battery on the control/interface PWB once a year, or whenever the Controller - Low
Battery alarm appears (on the AUI or via digital output). Chemical leakage from an old battery can
cause damage. Also, the control/interface PWB’s microcontroller may not retain its settings if ac
power is turned off while the backup battery power is low. The battery should be replaced while ac
power is applied to the transmitter.
Interval
Every 12 months.
Parts and tools

Replacement battery. 3 V lithium coin cell, 20 mm (Nautel Part # BBLT01, Panasonic # Panasonic
CR2032).
Procedure
Perform the following steps to replace the battery:
1. Ensure ac power is being applied to the transmitter.
2. Open the front door of the control cabinet (A1).
3. Replace the battery in XBT1 on the control/interface PWB, noting the control/interface
PWB is located on the control/exciter panel (A1A11) behind the front door. See Figures
MD-5 and MD-6 in the mechanical drawings section at the end of the NX50 Troubleshooting
Manual.
4. Close the front door.
5. Check for any alarms on the AUI. (See “Viewing transmitter status” on page 2-20.)
Page 3-4 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Inspecting lightning protection systems

You should inspect the lightning protection systems that are connected to your NX50 transmitter, ac
power, RF feedline, antenna and tower periodically to ensure that your site, equipment and personnel
are fully protected.
Interval
Every 6 months.
Parts and tools

Depends on your site, but may include a DVM, ladder, binoculars, and continuity tester.
Procedure
Perform the following steps to test the lightning protection systems:
1. Test the continuity between ground available at your lightning arrestor and ground available
on various pieces of equipment connected to the transmitter. Ensure that there is no
resistance (0 ohms).
2. Physically inspect the lightning arrestor to ensure that all connections are tight. Also look for
any sign of scoring or burning (indications of possible damage from earlier lightning strikes).
3. Using binoculars, visually inspect the hardware on the tower. Look for charred, broken or
frayed connections and corrosion.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 3-5

Page 3-6 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance
Section 4: Non-standard maintenance

This section provides instructions for performing non-standard maintenance on the NX50
transmitter. This section includes the following topics:
• Upgrading software
Upgrading software
Periodically, enhancements or improvements to the operating system are identified and made
available. Perform a software upgrade as follows:
Interval
As required.
Parts and tools

• Laptop (i.e., local computer for direct connection) or network computer with Windows and
Internet Explorer Web browser
• CAT5 Ethernet cable
• Upgrade software (*.tgz file), provided via email, web download or flash card
Preliminary Checks
1. Determine the current software revision installed. Via the advanced user interface (AUI)
screen, go to Menu/System Settings/Upgrade Software. Select the *.tgz file in the Select
Upgrade File list (should highlight in blue) and click Details. Note the current software
revision for Audio Player, AUI, Controller, Exciter, Rack and Cube.
2. Contact Nautel for the most recent software revision and download *.tgz file to a laptop or
network location.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 4-1

Transferring Upgrade File

The following steps assume either the laptop will be used to connect directly to the transmitter OR
the transmitter and network computer are currently connected to the same network.
Transmitter IP Configuration
1. From the transmitter AUI, go to Menu -> User Settings -> Network Setup.
2. Record your current network settings (IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway).
3. If connecting to the transmitter directly with a laptop, you must set a static IP address. This
can only be done via the AUI. In the Network Setup page, set as follows:
– Press the Static IP radio button to disable DHCP
– IP Address: 10.10.10.2
– Netmask: 255.255.255.0
4. Set the transmitter for Remote control.
Laptop IP Setup
The following steps assume the operating system is Windows XP. Adapt as required for computers
with different operating systems.
1. On the laptop go to Start Menu/Control Panel/Network Connections/Local Area

Network.
2. In the Local Area Network Status, open the General tab and choose Properties. Scroll down
and highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Choose Properties.
3. In the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window, select Use the following IP address.
4. Enter the following settings:
– IP Address: 10.10.10.1
– Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
– Default Gateway: 192.168.1.2
5. In the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window, select OK.
Page 4-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

6. In the Local Area Connection Properties window, select OK.
7. In the Local Area Connection Status window, select Close.
8. Close the Network Connections window.
Transfer Software Upgrade File to Transmitter
1. If using a laptop, connect the laptop network interface card to J1 of the SBC’s motherboard
(A1U1) on the back of the control cabinet’s front door using a CAT5 Ethernet cable. Open
Internet Explorer and search for 10.10.10.2. The transmitter login screen should appear.
2. If using a network computer, open Internet Explorer and search for the IP address recorded
in Step 2 of “Transmitter IP Configuration” on page 4-2. The transmitter login screen
should appear.
3. At the transmitter login screen enter:
– User: “Nautel” or “****”, where **** is the user assigned user name
– Password: leave blank (default) or “****”, where **** is the user assigned password
4. Navigate through the AUI to Menu -> System Settings -> Upgrade Software, select the
Manage Files button and press Browse. Locate the software update *.tgz file stored on the
laptop or network computer, and press Upload to load the file into the transmitter upload
file list. Allow this operation to complete.
Installing New Software

1. Set the transmitter to RF Off and for Remote control. If the transmitter is already in Remote
control mode, turn off the transmitter using the AUI on the laptop. Perform the following
steps remotely using the AUI on the laptop.
2. Go to the AUI Menu -> System Settings -> Upgrade Software screen and select the
update *.tgz file from the Select Upgrade File list (should highlight in blue) and press Start
Upgrade.
CAUTION! Do not leave this page until the flash process is complete.
3. After a successful load (status is 100% complete and a message indicates a successful load),
cycle the ac power (turn off, then on) on the NX50.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 4-3

4. This completes the software upgrade. Restore the former network settings on the transmitter
and laptop as required (see Step 2 of “Transmitter IP Configuration” on page 4-2).
5. Login and repeat Step 1 of “Preliminary Checks” on page 4-1 to determine if the current
version is the same as the upgrade version - this confirms the upgrade was successful.
6. If the upgrade was not successful, repeat Step 1 through Step 5. If still unsuccessful, contact
Nautel.
Page 4-4 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual List of terms
Section 5: List of terms

This section defines some of the terms that are used in Nautel documentation.
ADC. Analog to Digital Converter.
AES-EBU. Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union (AES/EBU) is the name of a

digital audio transfer standard. The AES/EBU digital interface is usually implemented using 3-pin
XLR connectors (the same type connector used in professional microphones). One cable carries both
left and right-channel audio data to the receiving device.
B+. The high voltage dc generated by the transmitter’s ac power supply for use within the transmitter.
The B+ voltage is used to supply the transmitter’s modulators and other transmitter circuitry.
Cutback. A reduction in RF output power, caused by a total power limit fault or the occurrence of
three shutbacks within a five second period.
DAC. Digital to Analog Converter.
DAM. Dynamic Amplitude Modulation.
DCC. Dynamic Carrier Control.
DRM. Digital Radio Mondiale. A set of digital audio broadcasting technologies designed to work
existing AM radio channels.
DSP. Digital Signal Processing.
FPGA. Field Programmable Gate Array.
HD Radio. HD Radio is another term for In Band On Channel (IBOC) technology. HD Radio is a
trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation.
IBOC. Nautel In-Band-On-Channel technology provides high quality digital audio over existing AM
radio channels.
IPM. Incidental Phase Modulation
Latching alarm. An alarm that, while active, keeps the transmitter in an ‘RF inhibited’ state. This
type of alarm (e.g., High SWR Shutdown) require a reset - locally or remotely - to attempt to restore
transmitter operation.
Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 5-1

NX50 Operations and Maintenance Manual List of terms
NE IBOC. Nautel’s In-Band-On-Channel signal generator. See IBOC. Required for NX series IBOC
installations.
PDM. Pulse Duration Modulation.
Preset. A setting that controls power level, active exciter, and power scheduler status on a time-of-
day and date basis. Exciters can be configured on a preset for a specific operating mode (for example,
Exciter A - conventional AM, and Exciter B - IBOC). The NX50 allows you to pre-program multiple
presets.
Shutback. A complete loss of RF output power, caused by any one of a variety of faults, including
high VSWR, low B+ voltage, high RF current, RF drive failure, external interlock or spark gap.
Surge protection board. An electrical panel that protects equipment from electrical surges in the
ac power supply, antenna or site ground caused by lightning strikes.
VSWR. Voltage standing wave ratio. This is an expression of the ratio of forward voltage to reverse
voltage on the feedline and antenna system. An ideal VSWR of 1:1 provides maximum transmitter-
antenna efficiency.
Page 5-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

NX50 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
Document: NHB-NX50-OPS
Issue: 3.0 2012-11-01

Nautel Limited
10089 Peggy’s Cove Road
Hackett’s Cove, NS Canada B3Z 3J4
Toll Free: +1.877.6NAUTEL (662.8835)
(Canada & USA only) or
Phone: +1.902.823.3900 or
Fax: +1.902.823.3183
Nautel Inc.
201 Target Industrial Circle
Bangor, Maine USA 04401
Phone: +1.207.947.8200
Fax: +1.207.947.3693
Customer Service (24-hour support)

+1.877.628.8353 (Canada & USA only)
+1.902.823.5100 (International)
Email: support@nautel.com
Web: www.nautel.com
© Copyright 2013 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

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NX50 Transmitter

Operations and Maintenance

Issue: 3.0 2012-11-01

Customer Service (24 hour support)

The comparisons and other information provided in this document

© Copyright 2012 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

Release control record vii

Operating the transmitter 2-1

Routine maintenance 3-1

Non-standard maintenance 4-1

List of terms 5-1

Page vi Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Release control record

Issue Date Reason

3.0 2012-11-01 Release 3 of transmitter (NARA53B)

Software Release NX4.0

Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page vii

Page viii Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

• Ac-dc power stage

• Exciter stage - see page 1-2

• Control/monitor stage - see page 1-4

• RF power stage - see page 1-5

• RF output network - see page 1-5 (includes combiner and filter)

NX50 electrical schematics

Ac-dc power stage

Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-1

Digital AM exciter PWBs

Page 1-2 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

Figure 1.1: Exciter Stage

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Figure 1.2: Control/Monitor Stage

From RF Power Stage To RF Power Stage

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Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-5

Figure 1.3: RF Output Network

A41 Voltage Probe

A44 Static Drain

A43 Directional Coupler

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There are several types of VSWR protection, which continuously operate:

Peak reflected power from directional coupler

Calculated reflected power from I and V samples

Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 1-7

Figure 1.4: Shutback Event

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Figure 1.5: Cutback Recovery Time

Average reflected power foldback

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NX Series Transmitter Block Diagram

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Section 2: Operating the transmitter

• Using the AUI - see page 2-2

• Home page - describing the first page - see page 2-17

• Menu page - describing transmitter operations on page 2-18

• Viewing Transmitter Log - see page 2-20

• Instrument Panels - viewing displays - see page 2-27

• Meters page - viewing real-time meters - see page 2-42

• Presets - editing operational settings - see page 2-48