Created on

Spacenet Inc.
CONNEXSTAR Installation/User Guide
CNXUG-01A-02

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 1 of 45

Created on

Copyright 2001 Spacenet Inc Inc. All rights reserved. Other product names referenced herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

This document may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of Spacenet Inc.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 2 of 45

Created on

Table of Contents
Installing a Connexstar System.................................. 4 Section 1: Getting Started................................................ 5 Section 2: Software Installation .....................6 2.1: Connecting the Laptop to the 360E IDU..16 Section 3: Operating the 360E Installation Tool............................ 15 Section 3.1: Opening Installation Tool15 Section 3.2: Connecting RF to the 360E IDU.....20 Section 3.3: Final Commissioning...20 Appendix A: 1st Level Troubleshooting...22 Appendix B: Troubleshooting Symptoms23 Appendix C: LED INDICATORS27 Appendix D: VACS Guide...33

NOTE: THIS INSTALLATION TOOL IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF INSTALLATION COMPANIES AND SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED ON ANY CUSTOMER PC.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 3 of 45

Created on

Installing a Connexstar 360E System

Overview of the Complete Connexstar System Set-Up Process
This installation manual provides guidance on installing the Connexstar 360E VSAT System. We recommend Installation of new Connexstar systems only be performed by Spacenet Inc. certified installers. The FCC requirements governing satellite transmissions mandate precise installation, pointing and configuration of the Connexstar system. Do not attempt to install this system unless you are trained and authorized to do so. This manual provides instruction on performing each of the following: Section 1: Getting Started Section 2: Installing the Software Section 3: Operating the Installation Software Section 4: Troubleshooting

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 4 of 45

Created on

Section 1. Getting Started

The Connexstar System Package is shipped with the following:
Connexstar 360E VSAT IDU Wall Mount Bracket Power Cord USB Cable Ethernet Cross-Cable o Only to be used for direct PC Connection o Use Straight-Cable if connecting to a Hub RF Cable Antenna

Software Requirements: To be retrieved from Website: http://www.connexstar.com/files/ Login: spacenet Password: installer
Connexstar IDU Installation Tool GE-6 Configuration File Connexstar Installation User Guide Help Desk Tool Connexstar Help Desk User Guide Connexstar Browser Configuration Instructions Customer Diskette

This installation guide pertains to Version 3.00.0X of the IDU360Einstall.exe and later versions.

Download all files to your hard drive; see section 2 for instructions.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 5 of 45

Created on

Section 2. Software Installation

It is recommended you perform the following software loading process on your Laptop prior to connecting the 360E IDU and visting the Installation Site. You will be instructed on when to connect to 360E IDU. You will have to load the Installation Software only once to your laptop. 1. Create a folder on your desktop named 360E Tools. 2. Go to Connexstar Website http://www.connexstar.com/files/ for access to Connexstar Software for downloading. 3. Download all files to your hard disk saving them to the 360E Tools folder on your desktop. Close out Internet. 4. Open the 360E Tools folder from your desktop. 5. Copy the Help Desk Tool and Browser.Zip File to a Floppy Diskette and label it with the Customer Name, IP Address and VSAT ID. (This information is loacated on your work order) Leave Diskette with Customer. 6. Still in the desktop folder: Double Click VSAT360Einstall.exe (Installation Tool)

a. The following Icon will appear on the Desk Top of your Lap Top PC:

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 6 of 45

Created on

b. Double click on this desktop Icon and you will be walked through the software installation process. The following screen will appear:

c. Click next to continue installation

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 7 of 45

Created on

d. Click Yes to continue installation

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 8 of 45

Created on

e. Click Next to continue Installation. Do not change Destination Folder

f. Choose Typical and Click Next to continue Installation

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 9 of 45

Created on

g. Click Next to continue Installation

h. Click on Finish to continue Installation

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 10 of 45

Created on

i. The following icon will appear on your desktop:

j. Also a very important Folder was created on your laptopyou will have to refer to this folder as we continue the software installation process c:\VSAT360E_Install

7. Go back to the 360E Tools desktop folder and copy the GE-6 Configuration File (CXGE6.lpf) to the C Drive Folder Named: C:\VSAT360E_INSTALL FOLDER. NOT TO BE MISTAKEN WITH YOUR DESKTOP FOLDER.

a. Once the LPF file has been copied, you can check the folder on your laptop to ensure it was downloaded to the proper folder. At this point in the installation your folder (c:\VSAT360E_Install) should look very similar to the picture below: your LPF file will be different.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 11 of 45

Created on

8. Next, click on the following desktop icon on your laptop:

a. The following Installation Screen should appear:

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 12 of 45

Created on

LOG

b. If the LPF files were not saved in the designated folder (C:\VSAT360Einstall), the above message will appear in the Log Window of the above installation tool. c. When loaded correctly the following screen will appear with this message appearing in the Log Window

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 13 of 45

Created on

EXIT BUTTON

d. Press EXIT Button on 360E Installation Tool. e. You are now ready to move to the next step of the procedure.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 14 of 45

Created on

2.1 Connecting the laptop to the 360E IDU At this point you have already loaded the 360E Installation Software onto your laptop. Before connecting the laptop to the 360E IDU, make sure the IDU is plugged in with the power turned off. Be sure to use the enclosed Cross-Cable for configuring IDU. RF should not be connected at this time. 1. Connect enclosed Ethernet Cable from Laptop to 360E IDU. 2. Turn on Power to the 360E IDU.

Modem will begin booting up Power LED will stay green (Confirms Power is on) Other LEDs will flash green PC LED will stay green (Confirms Ethernet connection) 3. You are now ready to move on to operating the installation tool.

Section 3. Operating the SkyBlaster 360E Installation Tool

At this point, all software is loaded and the laptop is connected to the SkyBlaster 360E IDU. The IDU is powered on. 3.1 Operating the Installation Tool 1) Double-click on the Icon created by the installation script.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 15 of 45

Created on

2) If all files exist and were properly installed, the following main window will appear on screen: Notice scrolling information in the Status Display Window

Set Tech ID Button Status Display Window

3) Next, Press the Set Tech ID Button on the Installation Tool. The following Box will appear:

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 16 of 45

Created on

Entry Box

Format Sample

4) Information entered into the entry box must follow the format sample that is below the entry box: NMS - filename of lpf file (ex: CXGE6.lpf) HPP ID Call VACS at 1-800-443-5834 to get correct HPP ID VSAT CPA On work order, if not Call VACS Example Only: CXGE6-22-222

5) Once entered, press OK and the Installation Tool will update and reflect the following information on the display: The Log Window will update and reflect success or failure

6) If successful, next press the Send Config to IDU Button.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 17 of 45

Created on

Send Config to IDU Button

Reset Button

Notice The Log Window

7) Next, Press Reset IDU Button Are you surepress yes 360E IDU will reset (approx 5 minutes) Power and PC LEDs will be illuminated Check log for messages

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 18 of 45

Created on

Notice The Log Window

8) Wait approx 5 minutes and turn power off to the IDU.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 19 of 45

Created on

3.2

Connecting RF to the SkyBlaster 360E IDU

At this point, all software is loaded and the laptop is connected to the SkyBlaster 360E IDU. The IDU has been configured with the proper parameters and is currently powered off. The Antenna has been aligned on the proper satellite. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) Carefully Connect the RF IN and RF OUT Cables Power On the 360E IDU Modem will begin boot up process (approx 5 minutes) Make sure Installation Tool Screen is on laptop Watch log and Status Display windows Once System is on line the message VSAT is up will appear in the Log Window 7) All but one LED on the IDU will be illuminated 8) The TX LED will intermittently illuminate NOTE: COMMISSION THE VSAT USING THE STANDARD VACS PROCEDURE. SEE THE VACS USER GUIDE.

3.3

The Final Commissioning Process

At this point you have successfully commissioned the VSAT using VACS. You must know perform the following procedure in order to obtain a Release Number from the Spacenet Commissioning Group. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) Contact the Commissioning Group at 1-800-237-3513 Inform them you have commissioned the VSAT Portion via VACS Request Comm Group ping the ethernet port of the IDU If ping is successful; Comm Group will issue a release number If ping is not successful; you must troubleshoot with Comm Group Leave Diskette with Customer. Perform standard post-installation procedures.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 20 of 45

Created on

Troubleshooting the SkyBlaster 360E Installation

Appendix A

1ST LEVEL TROUBLE SHOOTING

1. What is the status of the 360E LEDs on the front of the Unit (See LED Indicators Document) 2. Verify IDU has AC Power 3. Verify Power LED on IDU is Green 4. Verify PC LED on IDU is Green 5. Is weather a factor? Rain, Snow ,Windy etc. 6. Power cycle IDU 7. Has any construction or roof work taken place that may affect the cable or antenna? 8. Is an Ethernet Hub connected to IDU (Check Power to Hub) 9. Perform ping test to NIC 10. Perform ping test to IDU 11. Perform ping test to McLean Hub 12. Check VSAT Parameters

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 21 of 45

Created on

TROUBLE SHOOTING SYMPTOMS

Appendix B
Symptom: 360E IDU Will Not Power On. No PWR Light
1. Confirm that the provided power cable is connected securely to the IDU and to a known good power source. If connecting to a surge protector, remove the IDU from this and connect it directly to a known good wall outlet. Ensure at least one other electrical device is connected to the same outlet and is powering on properly. 2. If the power indicator, as well as no other LED, is not illuminated unplug the IDU and allow it to stand for one full minute. Reattach all power cables and attempt once again to power on the IDU. 3. If this fails to power on the IDU, get permission from the customer to attach a standard PC power cable to the IDU and to an outlet. If this produces IDU activity, replace the good power cable with the original. If the modem once more fails to power on, replace the cable. 4. If the IDU fails to power on following these steps, request a replacement IDU.

Symptom: 360E IDU Will Not Configure

1. Power cycle the IDU. Confirm that the cycling (self test) of the power lights matches the firmware version of the modem: 2. Is the PC LED illuminated on the IDU? 1. If it is not illuminated, proceed to Symptom: PC Light Not Illuminated. 2. If the PC LED is illuminated, proceed to step 3. 3. Power off the IDU 4. Download designated LPF File. (Refer to Connexstar User Guide) 5. Pull up the 360E Installation Tool . (Refer to Connexstar User Guide) 6. Click on designated LPF File. (Watch the Log window) 1. If window reads No Configuration File are found in C:\VSAT360E_INSTALL 1. The file is corrupt 2. File choice is not correct 2. If nothing appears in window the file was accepted by the Installation Tool, move on to step 7. 7. Power on the IDU (Refer to Connexstar User Guide) 8. Go back into the Installation Tool 9. Configure the IDU (Refer to Connexstar User Guide) 10. If all steps were done properly, system should be properly configured. 1. The window in the Installation Tool will read: Spacenet Proprietary Page 22 of 45

Created on 1. Configfile template has been loaded 2. 360E Parameters Sent to VSAT 3. 360E VSAT Reset Command Issued 11. Prior To Troubleshooting RX, SYN or CON Light Symptoms: Refer to the LED Indicator Guide for an overview of the indicator lights and what each means.

Symptom: No RX Lock Light On IDU After Configuration

1. Verify nothing has changed with the site PC (H/W or S/W). 2. Verify no severe weather at customer location or at the hub. 3. If customer is calling from a previously commissioned, operational site, have him verify that all cable connections at the IDU are secure by disconnecting, visually inspecting the cable and then firmly reattaching. Taking special care with the RF Cables. Also verify that there are no external interference sources such as radar detectors. For customer calls on previously commissioned sites, proceed to step 9. For installers continue with step 4. 4. Confirm that the IDU is being configured with the correct LPF File.. Reconfigure the IDU to ensure that the correct parameters are being programmed and accepted. (Refer to Connexstar User Guide) If the correct parameters are confirmed and the RX lock is not present proceed to step 5. 5. If system is functioning properly; the RX LED is Bad on the IDU Replace IDU 6. If system is not functioning properly go to step 7. 7. Replace LNB 8. Check RX LED on IDU 1. If green, problem has been corrected. 2. If still not green, go to step 9 9. Check all inline connectors and cables. If possible, try swapping the TX and RX side cables. If this solves the problem, run new RG-6 cable to replace the bad one. Make sure that the cables have been properly labeled. If RX lock is still not present it is still possible that the problem is with the cables. If possible run new RG-6 cable for both TX and RX and replace connectors, omitting internal silicone sealant. Remove or replace any in line amplifiers. If the RX lock is still not present refer to step 10. 10. If all of the above is followed and all external possibilities are eliminated, replace the IDU. .

Symptom: No SYN Light On Configured IDU With RX Lock

1. Verify nothing has changed with the site PC (H/W or S/W).. 2. Verify no severe weather at customer location or at the hub. 3. If customer is calling from a previously commissioned, operational site, have him verify that cable connections at the IDU are secure by disconnecting, visually inspecting the cable and then firmly reattaching. Taking special care with the RF Cables. Also verify that there are no external interference sources such as radar detectors. For customer calls on previously commissioned sites, proceed to step 6. For installers continue with step 3.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 23 of 45

Created on 4. Confirm that the IDU is being programmed with the correct LPF File. (refer to Connexstar User Guide) Reconfigure the modem to ensure that the correct parameters are being programmed and accepted. If the correct parameters are confirmed and the signal quality is good proceed to step 4. 5. If the signal quality remains low remove the Transmit Reject Filter from LNB, which is to be done by an installer or technician only. If this produces signal quality but no SYN indicator proceed to step 6. If signal quality remains low proceed to step 5. 6. Check all inline connectors and cables. If possible, try swapping the TX and RX side cables. If this solves the problem, run new RG-6 cable to replace the bad one. Make sure that the cables have been properly labeled. If the SYN indicator is still not present it is still possible that the problem is with the cables. If possible run new RG-6 cable for both TX and RX and replace connectors, omitting internal silicone sealant. Remove or replace any in line amplifiers. If the SYN indicator is still not present run C/W test if possible to confirm antenna alignment is within specification. If no alignment problem is discovered proceed to step 6. 7. If all of the above is followed and all external possibilities are eliminated, replace the LNB. 8. If the LNB has previously been replaced, replace the IDU. Symptom: No CON Light On Configured IDU With RX and SYN Lights Illuminated 1. Verify nothing has changed with the site PC (H/W or S/W)... 2. Verify no severe weather at customer location or at the hub. 3. If customer is calling from a previously commissioned, operational site, have him verify that cable connections at the modem are secure by disconnecting, visually inspecting the cable and then firmly reattaching. Also verify that there are no external interference sources such as radar detectors. If CON indicator is still not present, proceed to step 3. 4. A primary reason for loss of CON indicator is a Latitude or Longitude conflict with the NMS record. Confirm the customer's physical location matches their account record. Pass this zip to the NMS team to confirm the correct Latitude and Longitude for the customer's site. Any discrepancies with the customer's account should be referred to Customer Service. NMS errors will be corrected by NMS. If errors are found and corrected the IDU will need to be reprogrammed. Do not update Lat and Long manually. If a discrepancy is discovered, escalate call for resolutions. If step three is completed with the customer and no error is discovered, proceed to step 6. If the procedure outlined in step 3 does not restore CON, with an installer onsite, proceed to step 4. 5. Check all inline connectors and cables. If possible, try swapping the TX and RX side cables at both the antenna and the modem. If RX and SYN indicators go out, the cable is bad; run new RG-6 cable to replace the bad one. Make sure that the cables have been properly labeled. If CON indicator is still not present it is still possible that the problem is with the cables. If possible run new RG-6 cable for both TX and RX and replace connectors, omitting internal silicone sealant.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 24 of 45

Created on Remove or replace any in line amplifiers. Run C/W test if possible to confirm antenna alignment is within specification. If CON indicator is still not present proceed to step 5. 6. Have installer remove and remount the feed arm assembly. Have installer visually inspect the assembly for warping or damage. Ensure correct mounting procedures are followed. If this does not restore the CON light proceed to step 6. 7. Once these options have been exhausted, and the modem has been successfully reconfigured, replace the feed arm assembly. 8. If the feed arm assembly has been replaced previously, replace the IDU.

Symptom: PC Light Not Illuminated

1. This usually means the PC is not communicating with the IDU. Check the Firmware Revision 2. Replace Ethernet cable using a cross-cable if connected directly to a PC. Use straight-cable if using a Hub or Router. If one cable produces a PC light, replace faulty cable. Note: Always power the IDU off when switching between ports to ensure internal switching of unit takes place correctly. Always use the cables provided with the 360E IDU.. 3. Plug IDU into alternative PC or Laptop if available. If the PC light illuminates there is a problem with the port on the original PC. 4. Check for other Ethernet connected devices to this PC? If they are functioning, the port on the PC should be good. If there is still no PC light on the IDU proceed to step 5. 5. Replace the Ethernet cable. If cable replacement does not correct the problem, and all other troubleshooting steps fail, replace the IDU. The frequency of this failure occurring on this IDU is extremely rare.

Symptom: Modem Functions, One Or More LED Not Illuminated

1. If the IDU is operational: The customer can connect to the Internet reliably, at normal connection speeds but one or more LED is not illuminated replace the IDU. The TX light will not be illuminated unless the customer is transmitting data.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 25 of 45

Created on

BASIC TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE LED INICATORS ON THE SKYBLASTER 360E IDU
Appendix C

Description of LED indicators: PWR (Power On)-The satellite IDU is powered-on. Rx (Rx Lock)-The receiver is locked on the outbound (incoming) signal from the satellite. SYN (Synchronization packets are properly received)-Synchronization between the VSAT and the Hub has been established. Con (On-Line)-The connection with the Hub has been established. TX (TX Lock)-The satellite IDU is transmitting to the Hub. The light only blinks while data is being transmitted upstream to the satellite. PC (Data Activity)-T ere is physical connectivity between the PC and the satellite modem.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 26 of 45

Created on

Function of LED indicators: 1. PWR Indicator PWR indicator indicates that the IDU has its power turned on. This is the single indicator expected to always stay on as long as the IDU is turned on, and is not expected to go off, unless power goes off. If the power switch is turned on and the PWR indicator is not on, check that the same power cable from the same power outlet is powering another device. If it does not, either replace cable or outlet, or check that there is power supply at all. If it does, the IDU is not operational and needs replacement. If other LED indicators are on, or it looks as if the IDU is working properly, but the PWR indicator is not on, it may be that the LED is in fault. An IDU with a faulty LED should be returned and replaced. Please have the fault clearly indicated. 2. Rx Indicator Rx indicator indicates that the IDU has acquired the received signal and is "locked on it. What it means is that the IDU found a DVB signal with the expected characteristics (frequency and symbol rate), that the level of the signal (in terms of signal-to-noise) is sufficient to receive data (not necessarily totally free of errors) and that the signal is stable enough to lock on. Locking on the DVB signal, which is the system s outbound carrier, is prerequisite to proceed with the communication establishment steps.

Reasons for the Rx indicator not to be on (apart from a faulty LED) may be: o Antenna is not aimed correctly. o Faulty LNB. o Problems in the IF cable connecting the LNB to the IDU (receive cable)loose connectors, lengthy cable run, corrosion, etc. o Bad local weather (temporary lose of signal -TV signal will be usually lost as well). o Bad weather at the uplink facility (temporary lose of signal -not a single VSAT problem). o Non-weather related uplink outage (not a single VSAT problem).

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 27 of 45

Created on

Note 1: It is possible that while other indicators (SYN and CON) are on, Rx will briefly blink and will come back on. Usually, this can indicate a temporary lose of the received signal, or a low quality of the signal if it happens often. Note 2: An IDU that does not have its received signal locked will not try to transmit, will not connect with the hub and will not support any data exchange (no ping, no browsing,etc.).

3. SYN Indicator SYN indicator indicates that the IDU has received several consecutive synchronization messages from the hub, which allowed it to synchronize itself to the network clock. Such synchronization is a prerequisite for the IDU to transmit even a single transmission to the hub. The synchronization messages are being sent frequently (once every ~1 second) by the corresponding HSP (=sub-cluster) that controls the IDU. In normal operation, SYN indicator will light up couple of seconds after Rx indicator came on. Reasons for the SYN indicator not to be on when the Rx indicator is on (apart from a faulty LED) may be: o Low quality of the received signal (due to any of the following: antenna is not aimed correctly, bad LNB, problems with IF cable, local weather, etc.),that results in intermittent reception of the synchronization messages that is not enough to reach synchronization. o Hub problem:this could be either a whole cluster problem,or a problem limited to a sub-cluster (the sub-cluster this modem is part of)-this is not a single VSAT problem. o In very rare situations, if the Rx indicator came on as a result of a modem locking on an alien signal (DVB signal of similar characteristics from another satellite -because the antenna was aimed at the wrong satellite),the modem will never synchronize, since no synchronization messages are carried over this carrier. This is a truly rare scenario, which does not happen in normal operation (post-installation).

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 28 of 45

Created on

Note 1: Do not expect to see the SYN indicator coming on, if the Rx indicator is not on. Note 2: An IDU that does not synchronize with the hub will not try to transmit, will not connect with the hub and will not support any data exchange (no ping, no browsing,etc.). 4. CON Indicator CON indicator indicates that the IDU has successfully established a connection with the hub(became on-line).Such connection is a prerequisite for the modem to exchange data between the customer s PC and the Internet. The connection is established by the modem identifying itself to its corresponding HSP (=subcluster)that controls the IDU, and the HSP granting this connection. In normal operation, ON indicator will lit up only after Rx and SYN indicators came on, and after some negotiations is done (showing as some flashes of the TX indicator). Reasons for the CON indicator not to be on when the Rx and the SYN indicators are on (apart from a faulty LED)may be: o Bad transmitted signal (due to any of the following: antenna is not aimed correctly, polarization not set appropriately, bad ODU, problems with IF cable, local weather, etc.) that results in data not transmitted to the hub and thus no connection is established. o Hub problem: this could be either a whole cluster problem (RF downlink at the hub),or a problem limited to a sub-cluster (the sub-cluster this modem is part of, for example a receiver cage problem)-this is not a single VSAT problem. o Bad configuration: if the installation location zip code was not entered correctly a wrong satellite delay value was calculated, and the VSAT cannot connect; If the sub-cluster was chosen in error, the VSAT will not connect. o Hub problem that has to do with the single VSAT:VSAT not built on the NMS,zip code was put incorrectly in the hub through SAP/NMS,etc

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 29 of 45

Created on

Note 1: Do not expect to see the CON indicator coming on,if the Rx and the SYN indicators are not on. Note 2: An IDU that does not connect with the hub will not support any data exchange (no ping, no browsing, etc.). 5. Tx Indicator TX indicator indicates that the modem is actually transmitting. The IDU can start transmitting initial transmissions (connection requests)when Rx and SYN indicators are up, and can start transmitting application data after connection has been established (CON indicator is up). Note however that the TX indicator indicates a transmission attempt from the IDU, but this does not guarantee: o That the transmission will be transmitted to the satellite (if the cable is faulty, the ODU has a problem,etc.) o That the transmitted message gets to the hub (collisions, hub resources problems) There is no reason for the Tx indicator not to flash if data is being transmitted when the RX, SYN, CON indicators are on, apart from a faulty LED. If there is no data exchange, it is the normal mode of operation for all other indicators (PWR, Rx, SYN,CON,PC)to be on, and for the TX indicator to be off. From time to time, TX may flash while maintaining control connection with the hub. Note 2: Do not expect to see the Tx indicator coming on, if the Rx and the SYN indicators are not on. 6.PC Indicator PC indicator indicates that the IDU is physically connected to a PC via either the USB or the Ethernet port. It is an indication of a physical (electrical)connection only, and does not necessarily testify to data connectivity. Reasons for the PC indicator not to be on when the there is a physical connection to a PC (apart from a faulty LED)may be: o Cable (USB, Ethernet) problems. o PC port not functioning. o IDU/PC is turned off.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 30 of 45

Created on Note 1: As discussed above, the indication is for physical connection, so when a PC is going through a soft reboot, it is expected that the PC indicator will stay on through the reboot cycle. 7.Model 360E indicators during initial connection Every time the 360E IDU is turned on, it will cycle through the different LED indicators as part of its power-up test. In this stage (that takes couple of seconds)the indicators are still not functioning in their role as listed above. Note that as a function of the modem s firmware revision, the modem can cycle through the power-on test cycle once or twice, causing the LED indicators to cycle once or twice. Both options are normal, and do not need any special attention. Of course, a IDU that keeps on resetting itself (LED indicators constantly cycling), is faulty.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 31 of 45

Created on

Appendix D

Spacenet Inc. Implementation Department

CONNEXSTAR VACS USER GUIDE
VSAT AUTOMATED COMMISSIONING SYSTEM
CXVACS-01-02
2/13/02

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 32 of 45

Created on

Introduction
Purpose: This document describes how to operate the VSAT Automated Commissioning System (VACS).

Chapter 1:

Using VACS to Commission a Site 1.1 Logging into VACS 1.2 Identifying the VSAT to the NMS 1.3 Using the Install menu

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 33 of 45

Created on

Chapter

Using VACS to Commission a Site

The VSAT ID alias CPA alias VSAT Own Address should be on the work order; if missing use the work order number/notification number to call VACS to retrieve the VSAT ID and the HPP ID. If this fails; call the VACS at (1-800-4435834) to get any needed information.

This chapter gives step-by-step procedures for using VACS to commission a VSAT. This chapter describes: Logging into VACS Section 1.1 Identifying the VSAT to the NMS Section 1.2 Using the Install menu Section 1.3. Before calling VACS, complete an initial antenna alignment of the VSAT to obtain Rx lock. Figure 1 is a flow chart of VACS operations:

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 34 of 45

Created on
Enter User ID

Enter Password

Enter Notification No.

No

Install In Progress

Yes

2 New

Continue or New

Notification No. 1 Continue Install Menu

1 Parameters

2 Align Antenna

3 Confirmation No.

4 Finish Later

Call Commissioning Group

1 Quick Parameters

2 Azimuth & elevation

3 All Parameters

4 Single Parameters

5 Previous Menu

1 Alignment Check

2 Co-pol

3 Cross-pol

4 Previous Menu

1 for next 2 to repeat # previous

Enter Zip Code

1 for next 2 to repeat # previous

Enter Parameter No. Return to Install Menu

Yes

Criteria Met

1 value 2 max # previous

1 value 2 max # previous

1 to continue 2 to repeat

1 for next 2 to repeat # previous

No

return to Align Menu

Figure 1. VACS Install Menu

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 35 of 45

Created on

1.1 Logging into VACS To log into VACS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Dial the access telephone number (1-800-443-5834) Press 1 Press 1 Follow voice instructions Enter User ID followed by the # Sign. Enter Password followed by the # Sign.

If you enter an invalid ID and/or password, VACS plays one of the messages below: VACS Message
Invalid User Id. Try Again Invalid password. Try Again You have used up the number of tries for the user ID and password. Please try later.

Explanation
ID Number you entered is not in installer database. Re-enter ID Number. You entered a Valid User ID but an Invalid password. Re-enter your password. You did not enter a valid ID and/or password in five attempts. The system plays an error message and hangs up. Call back with the correct user ID and password. If necessary, call the commissioning group at 1-800-443-5834.

1.2 Identifying the VSAT to the NMS If VACS determines that there is an installation in process, it plays the following prompt from the VACS Main menu: You are currently working on notification number XXX. [Press] one to continue, two to work on a different install. Press the 1 on the telephone keypad to keep working on the installation site number played by VACS. Press 2 to enter a different installation number.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 36 of 45

Created on

1.2.1 Continuing an Installation in Process If you choose Continue, option 1, from the Main menu, the system plays the Install menu and sets up to continue the current installation. Proceed to Section 3.3. 1.2.2 Commissioning a New Installation If you choose Work on a Different Install, option 2, from the Main Menu, VACS erases the current installation data. Your options are to: Choose a VSAT using the notification number Quit Press 1 Press 2.

You can identify the VSAT by notification number/work order number, which is found, on your job ticket. 1.2.3 Identifying the VSAT by Notification Number To identify the VSAT by notification number, enter the number followed by the pound sign (#). The notification number for the installation is on the job order. If the number that you enter is valid, VACS accepts the entry. Proceed to Section 3.3. If VACS does not accept the entry, one of the messages in Table 3 plays.
VACS Message Error in notification number. Try Again Explanation The number that you entered is not on the list of notification numbers in the SAP. Re-enter the number. If necessary, call the Help Desk (1-800-237-3513). The information that you entered is valid, but an error occurred when VACS tried to Contact the network management system (NMS). Call the Help Desk for assistance. The VSAT specified is already Commissioned in the VACS database. Call the Help Desk for assistance

Unable to communicate with NMS to validate network and VSAT name.

The selected VSAT has already Been installed and cannot be accessed.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 37 of 45

Created on

1.3 Using the Install Menu After you enter a valid site ID, VACS plays the Install menu. The Install menu contains the following options: 1) 2) 3) 4) Get Parameters Section 3.3.1 Align Antenna Section 3.3.6 Get Confirmation Number Section 3.4.0 Finish Later Section 3.4.1

1.3.1 Getting Parameters If you choose Option 1, Get Parameters, from the Install menu, your options are: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Quick parameters Section 3.3.2 Azimuth and elevation Section 3.3.3 All parameters Section 3.3.4 Individual parameters Section 3.3.5 Return to Install menu repeats the main Install menu.

1.3.2 Getting Quick Parameters NOTE: Use Quick Parameters when working with the VSAT configuration script. Quick Parameters are the parameters unique to the sites VSAT. As VACS reads each parameter, you can: Move to the next parameter Press 1 Repeat the parameter Press 2 Stop listening to the parameters

Press #

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 38 of 45

Created on

1.3.3 Getting Azimuth and Elevation If you choose Option 2, Azimuth and Elevation, from the Get Parameters menu (Section 3.2.2), the following prompt plays: Enter zip code. Enter the five-digit zip code of the VSAT installation site. VACS replies with the azimuth and elevation for pointing the antenna to the satellite. You can do the following: Continue Repeat the azimuth and elevation Press 1 Press 2

NOTE: The azimuth that you receive from VACS is the true azimuth, not the magnetic azimuth. 1.3.4 Getting All Parameters NOTE: If you are using the VSAT configuration script, DO NOT use this menu option. Use this option if you do not have a disk or document containing the common network parameters or if you are not using the VSAT configuration script. VACS reads all of the installation parameters in the order that the VSAT uses them. Your options are to: Move to the next parameter Repeat the parameter Stop listening to the parameters 1.3.5 Getting a Single Parameter To set an individual parameter on a VSAT, enter a number from the following list:
0 USAT own address 1 USAT group address 2 Outbound rate 5 Time slot duration 6 Outbound ID 7 Out code rate one quarter

Press 1 Press 2 Press #

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 39 of 45

Created on 3 Outbound modulation 4 Outbound Reed Solomon 10 Inbound modulation 11 Inbound rate RA 12 Dual inbound rate 13 Inbound reed solomon 14 Inbound convolution 15 Inbound RA frame length 8 Interleaver ID 9 Establish link 16 Inbound DA frame length 17 K for inbound coding 18 HPP ID 19 HSP link number 20 Load Probe

A prompt then asks for a password. Enter 123#. The next prompt asks if you want to change your password. Choose No. The list of parameters continues as follows:
21 Main outbound frequency 22 Main channel delay 23 Main inbound reference frequency frequency 24 Main inbound idle frequency 25 Main day number of inbound bands bands 26 Main day start frequency 27 Main day stop frequency 28 Main night number of inbound bands bands 29 Main night start frequency 30 Main night stop frequency 31 Main inbound initial frequency 32 Main inbound initial frequency 33 Backup outbound frequency 34 Backup channel delay 35 Backup inbound reference 36 Backup inbound idle frequency 37 Backup day number of inbound 38 Backup day start frequency 39 Backup day stop frequency 40 Backup night number of inbound 41 Backup night start frequency 42 Backup night stop frequency 43 Backup inbound initial frequency

Your options are to: Repeat the Parameters menu Enter another parameter Repeat the parameter Return to Parameters Menu Press * Press 1 Press 2 Press #

1.3.6 Aligning the Antenna If you choose Option 2, Align Antenna, your options are to: 1) Check alignment Section 3.2.3.1 2) Align co-pol Section 3.2.3.2
Spacenet Proprietary Page 40 of 45

Created on

3) Align cross-pol Section 3.2.3.3. For each of these options, VACS performs the following operations: Allocates a test frequency Tells VSAT to transmit a CW on a test frequency Finds the VSAT CW Takes Measurements

Wait while VACS performs each of these operations. This process takes about 45 seconds. If a test frequency is not available, an error message plays indicating that VACS resources are not available. Try again later. If the VSAT CW cannot be found, an error message plays indicating that there is a problem communicating with the VSAT. Call the Help Desk for assistance (1-800237-3513). NOTE: When you move the antenna, there is approximately a two second delay before the new position registers with VACS. NOTE: Moving the antenna too far away from the optimal position results in the loss of Rx lock. If Rx lock is lost, repeat the initial VSAT alignment and then call VACS again to continue. 1.3.7 Performing an Align Check An align check provides the current reading of the co-polarization (co-pol) and cross-polarization (cross-pol). VACS automatically take these measurements, then determines if the measurements meet the installation criteria.
Spacenet Proprietary Page 41 of 45

Created on

VACS records the measurements, releases the carrier wave (CW) frequency, tells you if the measurements meet the defined installation criteria, and what their values are. If the alignment requirements are met, press 1 to return to the Install menu or 2 to hear the measurements again. If the alignment requirements are not met, press 1 to return to the Align menu or 2 to hear the measurements again.

1.3.8 Aligning the Co-Pol Co-pol alignment lets you adjust the azimuth, elevation, and polarization of the dish to get the maximum co-pol and carrier-to-noise (C/N) ratio. VACS takes a series of readings and sends the readings over the phone. The readings update every two seconds. To align the dish, move the dish slowly until you hear the highest reading. While VACS plays the readings, you can: Hear the current cross-pol reading Hear the maximum reading for the current session Quit and replay the alignment menu Press 1 Press 2 Press #

VACS continues playing readings for five minutes, then the following menu plays: To continue To quit If you do not press 1 or 2, the following message plays: Alignment timeout. One to continue, anything else to quit. Press 1 Press 2.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 42 of 45

Created on

If you do not press a key, the system times out and releases the CW test frequency.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 43 of 45

Created on

1.3.9 Aligning the Cross-Pol Cross-pol alignment lets you adjust the azimuth, elevation, and polarization of the dish to get minimum cross-pol C/N. VACS takes a series of readings and sends the readings over the phone. The reading update every two seconds. Rotate the feed/LNB/ODU assembly slowly until you hear the minimum reading. Adjust the azimuth and elevation, if necessary, to get the reading below the minimum requirement.

While VACS plays the readings, you can: Hear the current cross-pol reading Hear the minimum reading for the current session Quit and replay the alignment menu Press 1 Press 2 Press #

VACS plays the readings for five minutes, then the following menu plays: To continue To quit Press 1 Press 2.

If you do not press 1 or 2, the following message plays: Alignment timeout. One to continue, anything else to quit. The system times out and releases the CW test frequency. NOTE: After tightening the bolts on the VSAT, be sure to take the co-pol and cross-pol readings again to ensure that the dish has not moved. 1.4.0 VSAT Confirmation Number To get a confirmation number, choose Option 3, Get Confirmation Number. If this service has not been blocked you will be issued a confirmation number.
Spacenet Proprietary Page 44 of 45

Created on

In some cases this option will be blocked and you will have to manually contact the commissioning group at (1-800-237-3513) in order to receive a confirmation number. 1.4.1 Finish Later To stop work and finish the VSAT commissioning at a later time, choose Option 4, Finish Later, of the Install menu. VACS save the current information so that you can call back and resume the installation.

Spacenet Proprietary

Page 45 of 45