Abr 200

ABR200
Audio Broadcast Receiver
Installation and Operation Guide
COMSTREAM A Spar Company
10180 BARNES CANYON ROAD • SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92121 • (619) 458-1800
© Copyright 1995 COMSTREAM. All rights reserved.
CPN 01-0211-401
Rev. F 08/95
NOTICE
This publication and its contents are proprietary to ComStream, A Spar Company (ComStream) and are intended
solely for the contractual use of its customers for no other purpose than to install and operate the equipment
described herein. This publication and its contents shall not be used or distributed for any other purpose and/or
otherwise communicated, disclosed, or reproduced, in any way whatsoever, without the prior written consent of
ComStream.
For the proper installation and operation of this equipment and/or all parts thereof, the instructions in this manual
must be strictly and explicitly followed by experienced personnel. All of the contents of this manual must be fully
read and understood prior to installing or operating any of the equipment, or parts thereof. FAILURE TO
COMPLETELY READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND AND FOLLOW ALL OF THE CONTENTS OF
THIS MANUAL PRIOR TO INSTALLING AND/OR OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT, OR PARTS
THEREOF, MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT, OR PARTS THEREOF, AND TO
ANY PERSONS INSTALLING AND/OR OPERATING THE SAME.
ComStream does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any products, component parts,
circuits, software, or firmware described herein. ComStream further does not convey any license under its patent,
trademark, copyright, or common-law rights nor the similar rights of others. ComStream further reserves the right
to make any changes in any products, or parts thereof, described herein without notice.
© Copyright 1995 ComStream, A Spar Company
This digital audio receiver is manufactured by ComStream Corporation. It incorporates Musicam compression
technology under license from Corporate Computer Systems, Inc. as outlined in the copyright notice below.
This Musicam digital audio product is manufactured under license from Corporate Computer Systems, Inc. This
product contains one or more programs protected under International and U.S. copyright laws as unpublished
works. They are confidential and proprietary to Corporate Computer Systems, Inc. They may not be, in whole or
in part, reproduced, decompiled, reverse engineered, analyzed, copied, translated, or used to create derivative
works. Copyright 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 by Corporate Computer Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Musicam is
a registered trademark of Corporate Computer Systems, Inc.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and radiates radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
WARNING
Shock Hazard!
Do Not Open The ABR200 Equipment!
Service Only By ComStream!
Gefährliche Spannung!
Öffnen des Gerätes und Service nur durch ComStream!
The ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver contains no user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to service
this product yourself. Any attempt to do so will negate any and all warranties.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Using this Guide ......................................................................................................... xi
Organization............................................................................................................... xii
Warranty Statement .................................................................................................. xvi
Return Procedure ..................................................................................................... xvii
Revision History ..................................................................................................... xviii
Customer Support ................................................................................................... xviii
Chapter 1: Overview
Introduction............................................................................................................... 1-1
Satellite Digital Audio Distribution Network Overview .......................................... 1-2
ABR200 Overview.................................................................................................... 1-4

ABR200 Features ............................................................................................... 1-5
Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory of Operation

Overview................................................................................................................... 2-1
Functional Description.............................................................................................. 2-2

Outdoor Components ......................................................................................... 2-2
Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable ............................................................................ 2-4
ABR200 Satellite Receiver ................................................................................ 2-4
Theory of Operation.................................................................................................. 2-6

Transmission Channel Signal Format ................................................................ 2-7
Low Noise Block (LNB) Downconverter ........................................................ 2-12
Receiver............................................................................................................ 2-13
ABR200 Carrier Acquisition .................................................................................. 2-16

Installation Mode Acquisition.......................................................................... 2-17
Fade Acquisition............................................................................................... 2-19
Rev. F 08/95 iii

Introduction ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Chapter 3: Quick Installation

Overview ...................................................................................................................3-1
Quick Installation Procedure .....................................................................................3-1
Chapter 4: Full Installation and Startup

Overview ...................................................................................................................4-1
Installation Overview ................................................................................................4-1
Planning the Site........................................................................................................4-1
Installing and Aligning the Antenna .........................................................................4-2
Installing the IFL Cable.............................................................................................4-2
Installing the ABR200...............................................................................................4-3

Rack-Mount ........................................................................................................4-3
Desktop ...............................................................................................................4-4
External Connections ................................................................................................4-4

Audio Out............................................................................................................4-5
AUX (Auxiliary).................................................................................................4-6
Relay/Control......................................................................................................4-8
Data .....................................................................................................................4-9
M&C .................................................................................................................4-10
RF In .................................................................................................................4-11
RF Out...............................................................................................................4-12
Power Connector...............................................................................................4-12
Starting Up the System............................................................................................4-14

Validating Installation ......................................................................................4-15
Startup Problems .....................................................................................................4-16
Using the DAC400 and ABR200 in Baseband Mode .............................................4-18
Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control Operation

Overview ...................................................................................................................5-1
Command Syntax ......................................................................................................5-1
Password Protection ..................................................................................................5-2
Command Error Codes ..............................................................................................5-3
iv Rev. F 08/95
ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Introduction
Command Groups ..................................................................................................... 5-3
Command Descriptions in Alphabetical Order....................................................... 5-10
Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Overview................................................................................................................... 6-1
Maintenance.............................................................................................................. 6-1
Performance Monitoring........................................................................................... 6-1
Fault Condition Descriptions .................................................................................... 6-3
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................ 6-6

Before Troubleshooting...................................................................................... 6-6
Symptoms and Actions....................................................................................... 6-7
Chapter 7: Technical Specifications and Port Information

LNB Downconverter (Outdoor Unit [ODU]) ........................................................... 7-1
L-band Demodulator (Indoor Unit [IDU])................................................................ 7-1
Audio Performance ................................................................................................... 7-2

Available Audio Rates and Bandwidths............................................................. 7-3
Mechanical (IDU) ..................................................................................................... 7-4

Power.................................................................................................................. 7-4
Environmental .................................................................................................... 7-4
Control Channel Interface Capabilities .................................................................... 7-4
Monitor and Control Capabilities ............................................................................. 7-5
Rear Panel Ports........................................................................................................ 7-5

Audio Out Port ................................................................................................... 7-5
Aux Port ............................................................................................................. 7-5
Relay Status Port ................................................................................................ 7-6
User Data Port .................................................................................................... 7-6
M&C Port ........................................................................................................... 7-7
Appendix A: Interface Pinouts

User Data Port.......................................................................................................... A-1
Relay Control Port ................................................................................................... A-2
M&C Port................................................................................................................. A-3
Rev. F 08/95 v
M&C Port Adapter Cable (DB-9-to-DB-25)............................................................A-3
Analog Output Port ..................................................................................................A-4
Auxiliary Port ...........................................................................................................A-5
Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation

Overview ..................................................................................................................B-1
Modem Configuration ..............................................................................................B-1
Modem Connection ..................................................................................................B-2
Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable Characteristics and Preparation

Cable Characteristics................................................................................................C-1
General Characteristics ......................................................................................C-1
Outer Cable Jacket .............................................................................................C-1
Cable Specifications/Vendors ..................................................................................C-2
IFL Cable Preparation ..............................................................................................C-5
Appendix D: Antenna Installation (Prodelin)

Overview ..................................................................................................................D-1
Satellite Positioning..................................................................................................D-1
Site Location.............................................................................................................D-2
Antenna Assembly ...................................................................................................D-3

Maximum Bolt Torques.....................................................................................D-3
Tools Required...................................................................................................D-4
Unpacking ..........................................................................................................D-4
Antenna Setup ..........................................................................................................D-5

Foundation .........................................................................................................D-5
Reflector and Mount Assembly .........................................................................D-8
LNB Downconverter/Feed Assembly..............................................................D-10
Appendix E: Antenna Aiming and Peaking

Overview .................................................................................................................. E-1
Tool/Equipment Requirements ................................................................................ E-1
Calculating Antenna-Aiming Values ....................................................................... E-2
vi Rev. F 08/95
Coarse Antenna Pointing ..........................................................................................E-3

Coarse Elevation Alignment ..............................................................................E-3
Coarse Azimuth Alignment................................................................................E-5
Coarse Polarization Alignment ..........................................................................E-5
Antenna Fine Aiming................................................................................................E-7

Signal-Based Alignment ....................................................................................E-7
Carrier Not Found ..............................................................................................E-8
Final Antenna Peaking..............................................................................................E-8

Elevation Peaking...............................................................................................E-9
Azimuth Peaking ................................................................................................E-9
Polarization Peaking...........................................................................................E-9
Final Steps...............................................................................................................E-10
Appendix F: Software Revision History

Overview...................................................................................................................F-1
ABR Control Software..............................................................................................F-1
Audio Decoder Software...........................................................................................F-4
Appendix G: Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes

Overview.................................................................................................................. G-1
Terrestrial Backlink ................................................................................................. G-1

Operational Description .................................................................................... G-1
Configuration..................................................................................................... G-3
General Changes ...................................................................................................... G-4
Commands Added.................................................................................................... G-5
Commands Modified ............................................................................................. G-10
Appendix H: Troubleshooting Flowchart

Overview.................................................................................................................. H-1
Rev. F 08/95 vii

List of Figures
Figure 1-1. Satellite Digital Audio Distribution Network ......................................1-2
Figure 1-2. Typical ABR200 Installation ...............................................................1-4
Figure 2-1. Receive-Only Antenna Assembly ........................................................2-2
Figure 2-2. The ABR200, Rack-Mount Model.......................................................2-4
Figure 2-3. The ABR200, Desktop Model..............................................................2-4
Figure 2-4. ABR200 Front Panel Indicators ...........................................................2-5
Figure 2-5. ABR200 Channel Format.....................................................................2-8
Figure 2-6. Multichannel Single Transponder System ...........................................2-9
Figure 2-7. Low Noise Block (LNB) Downconverter (PLL) Block Diagram......2-12
Figure 2-8. ABR200 Functional Block Diagram ..................................................2-13
Figure 2-9. Cue Signaling System Diagram .........................................................2-15
Figure 2-10. Switch Panel.......................................................................................2-16
Figure 2-11. Installation Acquisition Mode............................................................2-18
Figure 2-12. Fade Acquisition Mode ......................................................................2-19
Figure 4-1. ABR200 Rear Panel Connectors, Rack-Mount Chassis ......................4-5
Figure 4-2. ABR200 Rear Panel Connectors, Desktop Chassis .............................4-5
Figure 4-3. Relay K1 and J2 ABR Connector ........................................................4-7
Figure 4-4. Signal Strength versus AGC Voltage...................................................4-8
Figure 5-1. ABR Block Diagram Showing DE, DX Commands..........................5-23
Figure C-1. Coax Cable and F Connector Assembly (to scale) .............................C-6
Figure D-1. Typical Antenna Mast Installation......................................................D-5
Figure D-2. Possible Location of Antenna Ground Strap.......................................D-6
Figure D-3. Antenna Assembly ..............................................................................D-7
Figure D-4. Azimuth/Elevation Positioner .............................................................D-9
Figure D-5. Antenna Hardware Detail....................................................................D-9
Figure D-6. LNB Downconverter Assembly ........................................................D-10
Figure D-7. Feed Support Rod Attachment ..........................................................D-11
Figure E-1. Azimuth/Elevation Positioner .............................................................. E-4
Figure E-2. Inclinometer Placement....................................................................... E-4
Figure E-3. Sample Spectrum, Mixed Vertical and Horizontal Polarization......... E-6
Figure E-4. Sample Spectrum, Vertical Polarization Antenna Fine Aiming ......... E-6
Figure E-5. Sample Spectrum, Horizontal Polarization Antenna Fine Aiming..... E-7
viii Rev. F 08/95

List of Tables
Table 1. Revision History ................................................................................ xviii
Table 2-1. Available Prodelin Antenna Sizes ....................................................... 2-3
Table 2-2. Signal Level Defaults .......................................................................... 2-5
Table 2-3. Channel Identifier and Frequency Allocation Combinations............ 2-11
Table 2-4. Carrier B and E Channel Identifier and Frequency Allocation ......... 2-11
Table 4-1. IFL RG-11 Cable Loss vs. Data Rate (assuming 5 dB
Eb/No LNB output) ............................................................................. 4-3
Table 4-2. Certifying Agencies by Country........................................................ 4-13
Table 4-3. Cable for Direct Connection Between DAC400 and
ABR200 Decoder (no modem).......................................................... 4-18
Table 5-1. Error Codes/Descriptions .................................................................... 5-3
Table 5-2. L-band Demodulator Commands ........................................................ 5-4
Table 5-3. Channel Control Commands ............................................................... 5-5
Table 5-4. Audio Port Commands ........................................................................ 5-5
Table 5-5. Data Port Commands........................................................................... 5-5
Table 5-6. Relay Port Commands ......................................................................... 5-5
Table 5-7. M&C Port Commands ......................................................................... 5-6
Table 5-8. Alarm/Status Commands..................................................................... 5-6
Table 5-9. Front Panel Commands ....................................................................... 5-6
Table 5-10. Miscellaneous Commands................................................................... 5-7
Table 5-11. Terrestrial Backlink Commands (v1.37) ............................................. 5-7
Table 5-12. Alphabetical Command Listing........................................................... 5-8
Table 5-13. CS8204 Programming Inputs ............................................................ 5-11
Table 5-14. CS8204 Programming States............................................................. 5-12
Table 5-15. Acquisition Type, Action, and Status................................................ 5-13
Table 5-16. Muted Conditions for Audio.............................................................. 5-14
Table 5-17. Audio Built-In Self Tests................................................................... 5-15
Table 5-18. Audio Test Performance Specifications ............................................ 5-16
Table 5-19. Parameter Descriptions...................................................................... 5-18
Table 5-20. Example Relay Mapping ................................................................... 5-20
Table 5-21. Valid String Characters and Descriptions ......................................... 5-21
Table 5-22. ABR200 Type and the Possible Display ........................................... 5-22
Rev. F 08/95 ix
Table 5-23. Authorization Bit Map .......................................................................5-29

Table 5-24. UA Value and Active Ports................................................................5-29
Table 5-25. Fault Summary ...................................................................................5-31
Table 5-26. Valid Values for the LR Command ...................................................5-34
Table 5-27. Valid Values for the MU Command ..................................................5-36
Table 5-28. Valid Parameter Values for the P1 Command ...................................5-37
Table 5-31. TTL Input Mapping............................................................................5-40
Table 5-32. Signal Strength and Signal LED Indication.......................................5-41
Table 5-33. Condition and Status Relay Contacts.................................................5-43
Table 6-1. Troubleshooting Symptoms and Actions .............................................6-7
Table 7-1. Available Audio Rates and Bandwidths ..............................................7-3
Table A-1. DB-25 Female, RS-232 Connector .....................................................A-1
Table A-2. DB-25 Male Connector .......................................................................A-2
Table A-3. DB-9 Female, RS-232/RS-485 Connector ..........................................A-3
Table A-4. M&C Port Adapter Cable....................................................................A-3
Table A-5. DB-9 Male Connector .........................................................................A-4
Table A-6. DB-15 Female Connector ...................................................................A-5
Table B-1. Hayes-Compatible Modem Configuration..........................................B-1
Table B-2. Modem Adapter Cable ........................................................................B-2
Table C-1. Recommended Vendors, Quad-Shielded RG-11 Coax.......................C-2
Table C-2. Recommended Vendors, F Connectors and Crimp Tool ....................C-2
Table C-3. Signal Loss per 100 Foot Length for Common Cable Types .............C-3
Table D-1. Thread Size and Bolt Torque ..............................................................D-3
Table G-1. Valid Commands that Can Be Sent From the Uplink Site to the
Remote Site ABR200 ..........................................................................G-2
Table G-2. Telco Modem Cable to be Used for the Terrestrial Backlink.............G-3
Table G-3. Terrestrial Backlink Commands .........................................................G-4
Table G-4. Valid Values for the LR Command ..................................................G-12
Table G-5. Valid Values for the MU Command .................................................G-12
x Rev. F 08/95
Introduction
Using this Guide
Welcome to the ComStream world of satellite-based communication
systems and networks. This guide is your source book for using
ComStream’s ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver. It describes the
installation, operation, and performance specifications of this product.
The chapters in this guide provide step-by-step instructions for a variety

of tasks and activities, including unpacking, setting up, mounting, and
operating the ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver. The chapters also
provide an overview of system operations, as well as technical
specifications and troubleshooting procedures.
Conventions Used in this Guide

This guide is designed to help you find and use information quickly and
easily. To take full advantage of this design, please take a moment to
review the specific formats.
Locating Information
There are several tools located in this guide to help you quickly locate
information. The table of contents, located at the beginning, provides
you with an outline of the chapters and major topics contained within
them. A detailed description of each chapter is contained in the next
section, titled Organization.
Special Paragraphs
Throughout this guide you will find two types of paragraphs designed to
help you identify important information. These paragraphs are:
NOTE: This identifies information for the proper operation of your

equipment, including helpful hints, shortcuts, or important
reminders.
CAUTION: This identifies information that requires careful attention

in order to prevent equipment damage and/or injury to the
operator.
Rev. F 08/95 xi
Keyboard Entries
Each activity or task is presented in a series of numbered, step-by-step
instructions. Commands or information that you type into the system
appear in a courier, bold type:
Type LT ? and press Enter.
Keys that are pressed in combination appear with a plus sign (+). For
example:
Control+Shift+3
Hold down the Control and Shift keys and press the number 3 key
simultaneously.
Organization
This guide groups information and procedures together by the types of
activities and tasks you will perform when working with the ABR200
Audio Broadcast Receiver. This guide contains seven chapters and eight
appendices. These chapters and appendices are described in detail
below.
Getting Started
If you are new to satellite communications or are unfamiliar with either
ComStream products or the ABR200, you should read the following
chapters before unpacking or installing this product:
• Chapters 1 and 2 for an overview of the ABR200
• Chapter 4 for a full set of ABR200 installation procedures
• Chapters 5 and 6 for remote monitor and control operation,
maintenance, and troubleshooting
If you are an experienced user familiar with the ABR200 and other
ComStream products, you may wish to begin with:
• Chapter 1 for an overview of the ABR200
• Chapter 3 for the quick installation procedure
• Other chapters as needed
xii Rev. F 08/95

Chapter Descriptions
The following detailed descriptions of each chapter and appendix are
provided to help you quickly and easily locate the information you need.
Chapter 1: Overview
This chapter provides an overview of a typical satellite digital audio

distribution network as well as an overview of the ABR200 audio
broadcast receiver.
Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory of Operation
Chapter 2 provides functional descriptions and the operational theory for

the basic components of the ABR200 receiver system.
This chapter provides quick installation and startup instructions for

experienced users who are familiar with satellite communications
equipment.
Chapter 4 describes the steps necessary to install and start up a complete

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver station. It presents instructions on
how to install and align the antenna, install the ABR200, and start up the
receiver system.
Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control Operation
This chapter details the remote control operation of the receiver.

Commands are input by the user and the receiver indicates current
status, errors, or faults. This chapter:
• Describes the ABR200 command syntax
• Groups commands by function
• Presents errors codes
• Provides an alphabetical listing of all ABR200 commands and codes
Chapter 6 provides an alphabetical listing of key performance

monitoring commands and the fault conditions that can occur with the
ABR200. These listings also provide a detailed description of each
command and fault condition.
This chapter also presents information that can help troubleshoot any
problems that can occur with the ABR200.
Rev. F 08/95 xiii

Chapter 7: Technical Specifications and Port Information
Chapter 7 lists all of the technical specifications for the following items:
• LNB downconverter
• L-band demodulator
• Audio performance
• All ABR200 ports
• Control channel
• Monitor and control
• Mechanical
• Environment
This appendix describes the pinouts and their function for each
connector used with the ABR200.
The ABR200 can be controlled and operated from a remote location by

connecting the receiver to the public telephone network using the
ComStream approved Hayes-compatible modem (CPN 30-0120-194).
This appendix provides the necessary details for configuring the telco
modem and connecting it to the ABR200.
Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable Characteristics

and Preparation
Appendix C describes the characteristics of the IFL cable and presents

the cable specifications and the vendors that supply the cables used for
the ABR200. In addition, this appendix provides step-by-step
instructions on how to prepare the IFL cable.
This appendix discusses the assembly and setup of the optional Prodelin
antenna system for use with the ABR200. If another antenna system is
being used, the assembly and setup instructions for that system should
be followed.
This appendix describes the activities necessary to:

• Point the ABR200 receive-only antenna at the appropriate satellite
• Acquire an out-route carrier
• Perform antenna peaking adjustments
xiv Rev. F 08/95

Appendix F provides a summary of the ABR software revisions. There

are two different types of software within the ABR200 unit: control
processor software and audio decoder software. The control software
can be updated over the satellite from the uplink using a network control
computer. The audio decoder software can be updated only at
ComStream by physically replacing its EPROM.
Any time a receiver is serviced at ComStream, the software is updated to

the latest revision level.
Appendix G: Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes
Appendix G is for customers who have version 1.37 or 1.38. Version

1.37 mainly provides the terrestrial backlink (TB) feature. This appendix
explains the TB functionality as well as the commands that were added
or modified with versions 1.37 and 1.38.
Appendix H provides a quick reference, troubleshooting flowchart to

help you diagnose and correct minor problems in the unlikely event that
you experience difficulties with your ABR200. This chart should be
used in conjunction with the information provided in the
Troubleshooting section of Chapter 6: Maintenance and
Troubleshooting.
Rev. F 08/95 xv
Warranty Statement
ComStream warrants that its products are free from defects in material and
workmanship at the time of shipment and that they conform to applicable
specifications. In no event will ComStream be liable for consequential misuse or
damages.
The ComStream ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver is warranted against any above-
mentioned defects that appear within one year of shipping date.
Should it be necessary to make a claim against this warranty, the buyer shall first
notify ComStream’s Customer Service Department to define the nature of the
problem. When returning products, please be aware of the following:
1. Products returned to ComStream, whether for upgrade, warranted or out-of-
warranty repair work, or maintenance, must comply with the ComStream Return
Procedure (located on the next page).
2. Products shall be forwarded to ComStream, transportation prepaid.
3. Products returned to ComStream freight collect or without a return material
authorization (RMA) number will NOT be accepted.
4. ComStream shall not accept any responsibility for returned products that are
improperly packaged and/or damaged in shipment. If possible, please use original
shipping and packaging materials.
5. Original product identification markings and labels must not be removed,
defaced, or altered. Further, to preserve the warranty, the product should not be
subjected to abuse, improper installation or application, alteration, accident, or
negligence in use, storage, transportation, or handling.
6. Any returned product shall be completely evaluated in an attempt to duplicate the
problem so that appropriate corrective action and repair may be completed.
Following repair, the product shall be thoroughly tested for compliance with
appropriate specifications. This process will be handled in an expedient and
prompt manner but may be subject to available labor and material resources.
The ComStream warranty, as stated herein, is in lieu of all other warranties,
expressed, implied, or statutory.
For further information, please contact

ComStream Customer Service at
619-657-6545
xvi Rev. F 08/95

Return Procedure
If it is necessary to return a product for out-of-warranty repair, upgrade, or any modification, the
following procedures must be followed:
1. Contact ComStream Customer Service, located in the United States, via phone or fax:
• Phone 619-657-5454
• Fax 619-657-5455
2. Speak to a ComStream customer service representative about any questions, issues, or
problems. Quite often equipment problems can be corrected over the phone, which keeps
your equipment in service and avoids unnecessary and costly downtime.
3. Should it be necessary to return a product to ComStream for any reason, the ComStream
customer service representative will issue you a return material authorization (RMA)
number. To issue an RMA number, the ComStream representative will need the
product’s serial number, model number, and a description of the problem.
4. You may be returning a product for either repair, upgrade, or modification. If you are
returning the product for:
• Repair, please include a complete description of the problem, the operating
conditions which caused the problem, and any circumstances which may have led to
the problem. This information is essential for ComStream repair technicians to
reproduce, diagnose, and correct the problem.
• Upgrade or modification, please include a complete description of the current
configuration and the desired change(s). This information will allow a ComStream
customer service representative to provide a formal quote for the upgrade.
5. Include a purchase order for any upgrade or out-of-warranty repair work being
performed. ComStream will begin repair work after a PO is received.
6. Reference the RMA number on all paperwork that accompanies the equipment, and write
the RMA number clearly on the outside of the shipping container.
7. Ship your module in the original shipping carton and packaging (or its equivalent),
prepaid, to the following address.
ComStream, A Spar Company
10180 Barnes Canyon Road
San Diego, CA 92121 USA
RMA Unit number
Do not include product accessories such as Installation and Operation guides or rack-
mount brackets.
CAUTION: When handling or shipping static-sensitive equipment, observe antistatic

procedures and always use antistatic bags for shipment. Upon request,
ComStream will provide you with ESD bags for your use.
All equipment upgrade and repair requests will be completely evaluated and the required
work performed in an expedient and prompt manner. The equipment will then be
thoroughly tested for compliance with appropriate specifications.
Rev. F 08/95 xvii

Revision History
This guide is periodically updated and revised. The following table lists
the revision number and date and provides a description of the type of
revision made to the guide.
To determine if you have the most current documentation, you can

compare the revision information at the bottom of each page to those
listed in the Revision History table below. For documentation updates,
call ComStream Customer Service (located in the United States) at
619-657-5454 or fax your request to 619-657-5455.
NOTE: Revision A is always the first official release to ComStream

customers.
Table 1. Revision History
Revision Date Pages Affected

Rev. A 02/92 Initial release
Rev. B 01/93 All chapters; adds Appendices B
through F
Rev. C 08/93 All chapters; convert to Word
for Windows
Rev. D 08/94 All chapters; new format; adds
desktop model; adds Appendices
G and H
Rev. E 05/95 All chapters; updated references
to ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA
Rev. F 08/95 Updated notice page to include
CCS copyright notice
Customer Support
We hope this guide provides all of the information and instructions you
need to operate the ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver.
However, in the event that you need further assistance, or if problems

are encountered, ComStream has set up a Customer Support Line for
your use. Please feel free to contact ComStream Customer Support,
located in the United States, by phone or fax at the following numbers:
• Phone 619-657-5454
• Fax 619-657-6455
Customer service hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to

5:00 p.m. Pacific time.
xviii Rev. F 08/95

Chapter 1: Overview
Introduction
Satellites have proven to be a reliable method of communication for
distribution of CD-quality digital audio. The Integrated Digital Audio
Distribution Network, of which the ABR200 is a key component, sets a
new worldwide standard for digital audio distribution.
The unique capabilities of the ComStream digital audio system allow a

network to start out small (offering a single monaural or stereo channel)
and grow to a larger multichannel system without replacement of
receiver hardware. Fast, easy selection of audio channels can be made
either at the receiver or at the studio uplink.
The combination of ComStream modem technology and the latest digital

audio compression technology (ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA) achieves
significant satellite savings (35-65%) when compared to alternative
distribution networks. The ComStream digital audio distribution system
also provides asynchronous data distribution and relay contact closures
for control of external station equipment.
This chapter provides an overview of a typical satellite digital audio

distribution network, as well as an overview of the ABR200 audio
broadcast receiver.
Rev. F 08/95 1-1

Overview ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Satellite Digital Audio Distribution Network Overview

A satellite broadcast network consists of three major subsystems, as
shown in Figure 1-1:
• A satellite transmission uplink station
• The satellite link
• One or more remote satellite receivers
Figure 1-1. Satellite Digital Audio Distribution Network
The hub or satellite transmission uplink station is the facility where the
audio to be transmitted is collected and uplinked to the satellite. This
facility consists of an audio encoder/multiplexer, a digital modem, an
earth station, an antenna, and a network control computer. As an option,
a terrestrial link can provide dial-up diagnostics and performance
monitoring of receiver sites.
The satellite link consists of a commercial telecommunications satellite

in geosynchronous orbit above the earth. Two radio frequency bands that
are primarily used are C-band and Ku-band.
1-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Overview
The third major subsystem, the remote satellite receiver, includes three
major components:
• A satellite antenna subsystem
• An interfacility link cable
• A satellite audio receiver such as the ABR200
The satellite antenna and its associated electronics collect and convert
the signal from the satellite’s native C- or Ku-band signal to L-band.
This signal is then sent through the interfacility link (IFL) cable to the
satellite receiver. The ABR200 audio receiver processes this signal and
outputs the audio, data, and control to the user-supplied station
equipment for distribution.
A phase lock loop (PLL) type low noise block (LNB) downconverter
must be used for all satellite links using the QPSK modulation. Satellite
links using BPSK modulation may use the dielectric resonance oscillator
(DRO) type LNB.
Rev. F 08/95 1-3

ABR200 Overview
The ABR200 is a multiple transmission rate digital audio receiver. As
previously mentioned, a satellite antenna is required with an LNB
downconverter mounted on the antenna. Figure 1-2 details an ABR200
installed in a typical application, such as a radio station environment.
The analog output audio from the ABR200 is used to feed both the
on-air studio console as well as taping equipment for off-hours
distribution of programmed material. The relay contact closures are used
to control station equipment such as cart machines and tape recorders.
The data port can be connected to a low speed dot matrix printer or a
personal computer for station traffic, air logs, etc. The alarm relay
closure is used to activate an alternate program source should the
satellite channel become inoperative.
Figure 1-2. Typical ABR200 Installation
1-4 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Overview
ABR200 Features
The ABR200:
• Provides full 20 kHz, CD-quality audio at 128, 192, or 256 kbps
• Accommodates both Ku- or C-band in BPSK or QPSK mode
• Uses ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA audio compression, which is the most
tested and documented audio compression algorithm in the world
• Uses Quick Channel Access, which provides fast, nearly transparent,
audio channel changes for receiving multiple channels
• Provides a relay (cue) control port with eight contact closures, each
independently controllable from the uplink facility
• Provides six transistor transistor logic (TTL) inputs for local channel
changes and auxiliary equipment monitoring
• Is addressable to provide complete control of receiver configuration
and operation from the uplink facility
• Allows audio channel changes either locally or from the uplink
facility
• Is equipped with a low speed (300 to 9600 baud), asynchronous data
port
• Provides remote control capability with access via an external
wireline modem (optional equipment)
• Provides built-in audio, relay control, and data port diagnostics
• Has a built-in performance monitoring capability that measures the
lowest received Eb/No and counts RF and audio sync losses
• Is equipped with software that can be upgraded over the satellite link
via down-line loading
• Has a nonvolatile memory so that configuration and operating
parameters are not lost in the event of a power outage
The remaining portion of this manual describes in detail the steps

necessary to install, configure, and operate the ABR200 digital audio
receiver within a network environment.
Rev. F 08/95 1-5

COMSTREAM
A Spar Company
1-6 Rev. F 08/95

Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory
of Operation
Overview
This chapter provides functional descriptions and operational theory for
the basic components of the ABR200 receiver system.
The ABR200 system consists of the following:

• An outdoor receive-only antenna and feed—optional antenna sizes
range from .75 to 2.4 meters
• A low noise block (LNB) downconverter assembly that performs the
initial signal downconversion (optional frequencies)
• A user-supplied interfacility link (IFL) cable connecting the LNB
downconverter on the antenna to the ABR200
• An ABR200 receiver providing an L-band demodulator and digital
audio decoder on a single circuit card
Rev. F 08/95 2-1

Functional Description and Theory of Operation ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Functional Description
Outdoor Components
The outdoor components consist of an antenna assembly, a feed
assembly, and an LNB downconverter.
Antenna Assembly
The antenna assembly consists of the satellite reflector, mast, feed horn,
and LNB downconverter. The antenna assembly collects and
concentrates RF transmissions that are produced by a communication
satellite and converts them to an electronic signal. A typical antenna
assembly is shown in Figure 2-1.
Figure 2-1. Receive-Only Antenna Assembly
The optional antenna supplied with the ABR200 system is an elliptical

offset feed-type suited for receive-only applications. The appropriate
antenna size is determined by the location and transmitted satellite
power (EIRP) for each installation.
2-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Functional Description and Theory of Operation
Available antenna sizes are shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1. Available Prodelin Antenna Sizes

C-band Ku-band
1.2 m linear or circular .60 m AZ/EL mount
.60 m wall mount
.76 m wall mount
3.0 m linear or circular 1.0 m AZ/EL mount
3.4 m linear or circular 1.2 m AZ/EL mount
3.7 m linear or circular 1.8 m AZ/EL mount*
(also Polar mount) 2.4 m AZ/EL mount*
3.0 m AZ/EL mount*
3.4 m AZ/EL mount*
3.7 m AZ/EL mount*
* Available in both single and dual feed
The antenna subsystem receives DC power from the ABR200 receiver

via the IFL cable, so an additional power source is not required at the
antenna site.
The reflector is mounted on a continuously adjustable azimuth/elevation

positioner that supports precision aiming to the satellite of choice. For
proper signal reception, the antenna must have an unobstructed view of
the satellite location in the sky. Prior to operation, the antenna must be
aligned to maximize the receive signal reception from the satellite used.
Feed Assembly and LNB Downconverter
The radio frequency signals gathered by the satellite antenna are focused
on the feed horn, which collects the signal. The output of the feed horn
is then directed to the LNB downconverter, which, in turn, converts the
Ku or C-band signals to L-band. The output of the LNB downconverter
is routed to the IFL cable through an F connector.
Rev. F 08/95 2-3

Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable

The IFL cable connects the antenna assembly to the ABR200 receiver.
This cable carries L-band signals to the ABR200 and supplies DC power
to the LNB downconverter.
The outdoor end of the cable is attached to the LNB downconverter

mounted on the antenna. The indoor end connects to the ABR200 RF
Input connector. The IFL cable uses F connectors on both ends.
The IFL cable is an important component of the receiver system. Proper

cable selection and installation is imperative to obtain optimal system
performance. Appendix C: IFL Cable Characteristics provides detailed
information on the IFL cable, vendor sources, and connector installation.
ABR200 Satellite Receiver

The ABR200 is a multiple transmission rate digital audio receiver.
Analog audio, data, and control commands are input to the ABR200.
The receiver feeds the audio, data, and commands to the on-air studio
console, as well as the taping equipment for off-hours distribution of
programmed material.
The ABR200 receiver comes in two chassis styles, rack-mount and

desktop, as shown in Figures 2-2 and 2-3. The ABR200 chassis is
designed to meet worldwide emissions, safety, and power requirements.
Its two-piece construction is optimized so that every joint in the box
overlaps, meeting FCC requirements for emission control. The ABR200
contains a world-compatible, autosensing power supply, allowing the unit
to accommodate virtually any AC power source.
Figure 2-2. The ABR200, Rack-Mount Model
Figure 2-3. The ABR200, Desktop Model
2-4 Rev. F 08/95

Front Panel Indicators
The front panel of the ABR200, as shown in Figure 2-4, has six
indicators located on the right side of the panel. The indicators are
backlit to show active operations or faults in the ABR200.
Figure 2-4. ABR200 Front Panel Indicators
The green Power LED indicates the unit is powered on and the power
supply is functioning correctly.
The RF Sync indicator illuminates green to indicate that acquisition of

the incoming RF signal is complete and meets all of the conditions
defined by the user within the ABR200 parameter base.
The green Audio Sync LED indicates the digital audio decoder has
synchronized to the uplink audio encoder. CD-quality audio is then
available for output from the receiver if the unit is properly authorized
for audio reception.
The Signal indicator is a green LED that reflects the current signal
strength relative to user-specified criteria. The indicator has three
operational states: on, blinking, and off. The signal level thresholds that
determine these three states are user-specified via the Q0 and Q1
commands, as described in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation. Table 2-2 displays the factory default values.
Table 2-2. Signal Level Defaults

Signal Level (Eb/No) Indicator
>7.0 dB On
>4.0 dB, <7.0 dB Blinking
<4.0 dB Off
Rev. F 08/95 2-5

IDU Fault Indicator
When active, the IDU Fault indicator illuminates the words IDU Fault in
red on the front panel. When lit, the LED indicates that one or more fault
conditions exist that may impede signal reception or affect reliable
reception. The conditions under which the indicator illuminates is
programmable by the operator using the status relay mask (SR)
command, as described in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation. This indicator maps to the state of the status relay closure
contact that is available at the rear panel. If desired, this closure contact
can be used to mirror the fault indicator. Once the fault condition has
cleared, the indicator automatically turns off and the status relay returns
to its normal state as defined by the user.
During the power-up sequence, the IDU Fault indicator will

momentarily illuminate (indicating the LED is working) and then turn
off. Once the power-up sequence is complete, it only illuminates when a
fault occurs.
The ABR200 receiver software can be updated over the satellite link.
Interrupted or unsuccessful software downloads will make the IDU Fault
indicator blink at one-second intervals. The fault indicator will stop
blinking only when the software download is successful.
ODU Fault
The ODU Fault indicator illuminates the words ODU Fault in red on the
front panel. When lit, the LED indicates the LNB downconverter is not
receiving power from the IDU. This indicator may be programmed to
remain off using the ODU fault mask (OM) command, as described in
Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control Operation.
Theory of Operation
The ABR200 is a multiple transmission rate, QPSK/BPSK, digital audio
receiver. The ABR200 is comprised of two elements, an outdoor unit
and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit consists of an LNB downconverter
that is mounted directly onto the antenna. The L-band output signal is
transmitted via coax cable to the indoor electronics. Up to 400 feet of
separation is possible before line amplifiers or switching to RG-35 cable
is required. Standardizing on an LNB configuration permits both Ku-
and C-band satellite operation with a single indoor receiver by selecting
the appropriate LNB downconverter frequency range. The LNB
downconverter can receive DC power from the receiver via the single
coax cable. Should the coax connection become interrupted for any
reason, an ODU alarm condition occurs.
2-6 Rev. F 08/95

The indoor unit consists of a compact, fully integrated, digital receiver.

Internally the unit is comprised of:
• An L-band demodulator
• A single microcontroller providing overall receiver control and
configuration
• A single DSP-based audio decoder providing two audio outputs,
analog and AES/EBU
• A relay control port
• An RS-232 asynchronous data port
• An RS-232 or RS-485 remote control/diagnostic port
The rack-mount version of the receiver requires only one rack unit
(1.75 inches) of vertical space. When utilizing more than one ABR in a
rack, set up the rack such that one rack unit of free air space between
rack-mount ABRs is provided. (For more information, refer to
Chapter 4: Full Installation and Startup.)
All input and output connections are made on the rear panel. Each of the
DB connectors are unique in size or gender from the other so that no
interconnection mistakes can be made during installation.
For installations that require stereo pair outputs from the same satellite
but on different carriers, two or more receivers can be daisy-chained
together. In this arrangement, the L-band RF input is passed through to
each additional receiver in turn, and is demodulated, decoded, and
output as an independent audio channel. Up to six receivers can operate
from one LNB downconverter and antenna.
Transmission Channel Signal Format

The ComStream digital audio satellite broadcast system uses a single RF
carrier to distribute audio, data, and control information from the uplink
to all downlinks. This multiservice data stream uses time division
multiplexing (TDM) to transport the following information:
• CD-quality digital audio (mono, dual-mono, or joint stereo pair)
• User data
• Relay contact closure messages and receiver commands
• Network management commands
Rev. F 08/95 2-7

The TDM frame structure is provided by the ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA

audio standard, as shown in Figure 2-5.
Frame Ancillary
ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA Audio Data
Header Data
Figure 2-5. ABR200 Channel Format
The frame header provides all information regarding the audio rate,
compression mode (mono, dual-mono, joint stereo), sampling rate
(48 kHz), ancillary data size, and checksum. The audio data is the
processed data as generated by the ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA encoder.
The ancillary data stream is used to transport the following information:
network control, user data, and relay (equipment) control messages. This
data is stripped out by the ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA decoder within the
receiver and is sent to a second microprocessor for additional processing
and checksum. The checksum provides error detection of key audio
data-related parameters.
Multiple (stereo) audio channels can be transmitted by uplinking an RF

carrier for each stereo, dual-mono, or mono channel service. This
technique is known as frequency division multiplexing (FDM). The
ABR200 is specially designed for multicarrier FDM operation. By using
digitally programmed local oscillators and optimized acquisition
routines, changes from one RF carrier to another occur in less than
600 msec. Furthermore, the signal parameters between the two carriers
can be completely different.
One carrier may be operating monaural audio at 64 kbps using QPSK

modulation, while a second dual mono at 256 kbps using BPSK
modulation. The RF frequencies may be a full 500 MHz apart. The key
parameters for each RF carrier are programmed into the ABR200 unit in
one of three ways:
• Locally via a computer terminal
• Remotely via a telephone modem
• Over the satellite link using the Audio Network Management
System (ANMS), which is located at the uplink facility
2-8 Rev. F 08/95

Figure 2-6 provides an illustration of various digital audio carriers on a

single transponder.
Figure 2-6. Multichannel Single Transponder System
RF channel changes can be initiated from several sources:

• Over the satellite control channel from the uplink
• Via the remote control port
• Locally (if permitted) via three TTL control inputs
The output audio is muted just prior to initiating a channel change to

prevent audio blasting. If the new RF carrier cannot be acquired within
one bintime, a channel change fault (FL 29) is declared and the original
channel is reacquired. For information on channel acquisition and
bintime, refer to the “Installation Mode Acquisition” section of this
chapter.
Proper Signal Discrimination of Narrow Band RF Signals
A single satellite transponder can provide access to hundreds of

individual RF carriers because of their very wide bandwidths, typically
36, 54, or 72 MHz. The ComStream Single Channel Per Carrier (SCPC)
digital audio system uses very narrow bandwidth RF carriers where the
bandwidth can range from 64 kHz (64 kbps, QPSK) to 512 kHz
(256 kbps, BPSK). The ABR200 receiver has the capability to acquire
RF signals over the full satellite frequency range of 500 MHz.
Rev. F 08/95 2-9

Because local oscillators are used in translating the signal to various

radio frequencies throughout the transport cycle (uplink, satellite, and
downlink), frequency uncertainties may become significant in
comparison to the bandwidth of the signal itself. This uncertainty can be
as much as 2 MHz when operating with a DRO-type LNB
downconverter or as little as +15 kHz with a PLL-type LNB. To ensure
that only the RF carrier of interest is detected and processed, a further
means of signal discrimination is required.
Additional discrimination is provided by embedding a unique identifier

into the composite data stream of each carrier. This unique identifier is
comprised of two components: a network identification (ID) number,
and a channel ID number. The network and channel IDs are generated at
the uplink by the codec/mux at regular intervals (typically every
100 msec). For a given uplink, each codec/mux is programmed with a
unique channel number, with each carrier typically having the same
network ID.
During the receiver signal acquisition process, the proper RF signal is

acquired and then the channel and network identifiers are matched
against the user’s predetermined configuration within the receiver.
When these match, the RF Sync and Audio Sync indicators are
illuminated. However, if either of the IDs do not match, an acquisition
network ID fault (FL 31) is declared and the acquisition process
continues until the correct signal is received.
If the network and channel ID information stops for a period of ten

seconds, a network ID timeout fault (FL 30) is generated.
NOTE: It is important that the channel and network ID numbers

generated at the codec/mux match the receiver configuration.
For example, if a channel ID of 16 is used at the uplink, then
all downlink ABR200 receivers must have channel
configuration #16 defined for the proper RF receiver
frequency, symbol rate, and demodulation type
(i.e., CC 16,11700000,128000,1).
If another channel configuration number is used, say CC 1, in

any receiver, those receivers configured with CC 1 instead of
CC 16 will not acquire the signal properly and will not operate.
For multiple carriers from a single uplink the network ID
should be the same for all codec/muxes, but the channel IDs
must be unique (i.e., 1, 2, 3, etc.).
2-10 Rev. F 08/95

An example of several different possible combinations of channel

identifiers and frequency allocations are provided in Table 2-3
(assuming QPSK operation and 128 kbps transmission rate).
Table 2-3. Channel Identifier and Frequency Allocation

Combinations
Carrier Uplink RF Freq. CC/FD Format
No. Site MHz NI CI (at ABRs)
A X 11,700.0 2 1 CC 1,... FD 1,2,1,7
B Y 11,700.2 1 1 CC 1,... FD 1,1,1,7
C Z 11,701.0 1 2 CC 2,... FD 2,1,2,7
FD 3,1,2,5
D Z 11,701.2 1 3 CC 3,... FD 4,1,3,7
If you add a fifth carrier, Carrier E (shown in Table 2-4), to the

configuration of carrier frequencies and ID numbers in Table 2-3, it is
possible that carriers B and E would be incorrectly received, since they
are within 600 kHz of each other and do not have unique ID numbers.
All other carriers would operate properly.
Table 2-4. Carrier B and E Channel Identifier and Frequency

Allocation
Carrier Uplink RF Freq. CC/FD Format
No. Site MHz NI CI (at ABRs)
B Y 11,700.2 1 1 CC 1,... FD 1,1,1,7
E Z 11,700.8 1 1 CC 1,... FD 1,1,1,7
Rev. F 08/95 2-11

Low Noise Block (LNB) Downconverter

The LNB downconverter takes the satellite signals at C- or Ku-band and
block downconverts them to L-band for processing by the satellite
receiver. The performance of the LNB downconverter is critical, as it
establishes the noise figure for the entire receiver system. A block
diagram of the LNB subsystem is shown in Figure 2-7.
Figure 2-7. Low Noise Block (LNB) Downconverter (PLL) Block Diagram
The LNB downconverter is installed at the focus of the parabolic

antenna dish. The LNB downconverter consists of:
• A low noise amplifier (LNA)
• A dielectric resonance oscillator (DRO) or phase lock loop (PLL)
oscillator
• A mixer
• An image reject filter
• An IF amplifier
The input of the LNB downconverter receives signals collected by the

antenna and routes them to the LNA. The LNA sets the LNB
downconverter noise figure and provides the first stage of amplification.
The amplified signal is mixed with the local oscillator for
downconversion to L-band frequencies and then passed through the
image reject filter. The IF amplifier boosts the signal to provide dynamic
range, allowing for substantial cable loss. DRO technology provides
good stability and phase-noise performance and is acceptable for BPSK
operation. A PLL-based LNB downconverter is required for QPSK
operation.
2-12 Rev. F 08/95

Receiver
The ABR200 broadcast receiver block diagram is shown in Figure 2-8.
The major functional blocks consist of:
• An L-band digital demodulator
• The ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA audio decoder DSP processor
• The receiver control processor
Figure 2-8. ABR200 Functional Block Diagram
The L-band demodulator receives the signal from the LNB

downconverter. The signal is amplified and split to provide a buffered
version for the RF output port. The signal is then downconverted by a
digitally controlled local oscillator. The signal is then quadrature
downconverted, sampled, and input to the demodulator IC. In the
demodulator IC, soft decisions are made on the digitally compressed
audio stream and it creates error signals for the carrier tracking, bit
timing, and AGC loops. The soft-decision, digitally compressed audio
stream is then directed to the demodulator decoder IC, which supports
differential decoding, V.35 descrambling, and sequential decoding. The
resulting baseband digital audio stream is presented to the audio digital
signal processor. It is also available to the rear panel for direct output to
storage devices via an RS-422 interface.
Rev. F 08/95 2-13

The Digital Signal Processor (DSP) synchronizes to the digitally

compressed audio stream and performs audio decoding and
audio/control demultiplexing. Next, the compressed digital audio is
converted back into left and right channel 16-bit linear PCM audio.
Using a dual channel, 16-times-oversampled digital-to-analog (D/A)
converter, operating at a 48 kHz sampling rate, is used to produce the
final CD-quality analog audio signal. The CD-quality analog audio is
available on a male, 9-pin DB connector. The outputs are direct coupled,
actively balanced, with the capability to drive a 600 ohm impedance
load. When operating in the mono mode, there are several options for
the output audio signal mapping. For information about signal mapping,
refer to the left and right toggle (L/R) and mute (MU) commands in
During any type of signal or processing failure, the output audio is

immediately muted to prevent audio blasting. Also, to provide blast-free
audio channel changes, the audio is always muted prior to changing RF
channels during audio channel changes. It is then unmuted once audio
decoder sync is achieved.
An AES/EBU digital output interface is also available. This interface

permits direct output of the 16-bit PCM samples. The interface operates
using a 48 kHz sampling rate only. Newer studio equipment using the
AES/EBU interface will provide a direct digital interface from the
ABR200 for maximum performance.
For diagnostic testing and installation, test tones at 1 kHz and 9.6 kHz
can be generated within the receiver for output to either the left, right, or
both analog audio channels. This is accomplished through the audio test
(AT) command, as described in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation. Audio tone generation permits verification of external
equipment connection, proper channel phasing, level settings, distortion
measurements, and the like. These tests can be controlled locally
through the M&C port or from the uplink via the ANMS computer.
Cue Signaling
Up to 16 cue control lines can be input into the DAC multiplexer unit
located at the uplink. These 16 cue lines independently control eight
relay closures located at the ABR200 receiver. The cue inputs are
typically connected to studio control consoles or event sequencers.
Since only eight contact closures are available at the receiver, a mapping
must be made as to which eight of the 16 possible control inputs activate
the closures. This mapping is performed at the ABR200 receiver using
the contact mapping (CM) command or at the uplink via the ANMS
control computer. The receiver defaults to have the first eight inputs at
the DAC mux control the eight closures at the ABR200.
2-14 Rev. F 08/95

Any change in the state of an input line is sensed, and within two sample
periods this change is muxed into the continuous transmission of the
control channel. The input levels are continuously transmitted over the
control channel at a rate specified by the DAC RM command every
100 msec (default setting). The relay contact closures at the ABR200
receiver directly track the logic levels (active, nonactive) at the uplink
mux. Given the two default sampling rates, pulsed signals are
reproduced within an accuracy of less than or equal to 50 msec.
Figure 2-9 provides a pictorial representation of the 16-to-8 mapping

function that occurs for the cue signals within the ABR200 receiver.
Figure 2-9. Cue Signaling System Diagram
Seven TTL sensor inputs are provided for external control of channel
selection or for ancillary equipment monitoring. The first three inputs
permit selection of up to eight different RF audio channels by
connecting a rotary (or similar) switch to the inputs. Only a simple
contact closure is required to perform audio channel changes. The actual
RF channel frequencies and related operating parameters are
programmed either locally or from the uplink and are stored in eight
presets. For more information about the presets, refer to the preset
definition (PD) command in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation.
Rev. F 08/95 2-15

The ComStream switch unit (CPN 03-0507-001), shown in Figure 2-10,

allows the user to externally select one of eight preset channel
configurations with a BCD complementary rotary switch. This unit is
mounted into a one unit high chassis and has a front polycarb to allow
the user to mark their presets. The unit attaches through a cable (CPN
05-0506-001) to the receiving ABR.
Figure 2-10. Switch Panel
The second group of three inputs can be used to trigger a fault condition
within the receiver. These fault conditions are monitored and can be
used to activate the status alarm relay. A brief summary of the possible
trigger events are: low signal strength, loss of sync (audio or carrier),
IDU and ODU Faults, and external inputs.
ABR200 Carrier Acquisition

Acquisition is the process the receiver uses to adjust its frequency,
phase, gain, and synchronization to match the incoming carrier.
Acquisition of the carrier signal for the ABR200 is a sophisticated

process. Frequency errors arising from temperature changes in the
outdoor environment and the aging of components over time can make
signal acquisition difficult. The ABR200 has been designed to overcome
these errors by the use of internal synthesizers that correct for nearly all
components of error, without operator intervention.
The automatic acquisition feature of the ABR200 operates in two

distinct modes, installation and fade.
• Installation mode acquisition is performed when the system is
locking onto a new carrier.
• Fade acquisition is performed when the receiver loses the carrier to
which it was previously locked.
2-16 Rev. F 08/95

Added to this process is the identification of the correct carrier via

unique channel identifiers transmitted within the control portion of the
received audio stream. Each RF carrier is identified in two ways, a
network identification (ID) number and a channel ID number. These ID
numbers originate within the digital audio codec at the transmitter
(uplink) site. All carriers on a single network are typically configured
with the same network ID number. However, each RF channel is given a
unique channel ID number. If the receiver tries to lock to an RF carrier
with the incorrect network or channel identifier, the RF synchronization
process is aborted and acquisition continues until the carrier with the
proper network and channel number is acquired. This ensures that
receivers are locked to their preassigned, authorized channel.
Installation Mode Acquisition

During installation, acquisition begins at the nominal carrier center
frequency, which is user-defined by the channel configuration (CC)
command.
An attempt to acquire the carrier begins by searching a range of

frequencies, called a frequency bin, centered around the carrier
frequency. The size of this range is determined by the computed B1
parameter value. If the ABR200 is unable to find the carrier within this
range, the receiver will move to the next contiguous range below the
center carrier frequency and repeat the process. If the carrier is not found
there, the receiver will move to the next contiguous frequency above the
center carrier frequency and continue the search.
Rev. F 08/95 2-17

The receiver will continue this process, each time searching the next
outside range (on either side of the starting point) until the carrier is
found, or until the user-defined acquisition range limit (B3) is reached.
If the receiver reaches this limit, it will log an acquisition range fault
(FL9) and repeat the entire process, starting again at the center carrier
frequency. Figure 2-11 graphically describes the installation acquisition
process.
Figure 2-11. Installation Acquisition Mode
Immediately following RF carrier acquisition, the channel and network

identifiers are matched against the configuration within the receiver. If
these match, the RF Sync and Audio Sync indicators both illuminate and
the signal is further processed by the ABR200. However, if either of the
IDs do not match, an acquisition network ID fault (FL 31) is declared
and the acquisition process continues until the correct signal is received
and detected.
2-18 Rev. F 08/95

Fade Acquisition
Fade acquisition uses a different search pattern so as to concentrate the
search in a narrower frequency range centered on the point the carrier
was last seen, as illustrated in Figure 2-12, while still covering the entire
user-defined search range (B3).
Figure 2-12. Fade Acquisition Mode
When the receiver loses the carrier, it starts a fade acquisition at the
point it last saw the carrier. It searches the range centered on that point
(P0). The size of this range is defined by the B1 command. If no carrier
is found, the search proceeds in the areas above and below
simultaneously. The size of the range searched outside the B1 range is
defined by the B2 command. These points are indicated in Figure 2-12
as B21 and B22.
Once the B21 and B22 ranges are searched, the receiver returns to P0 and
resumes the expanding search from the beginning. When the B1 limit is
reached again, the system will search another B2 range beyond the last
B2 attempts. If the carrier is still not found, the receiver will start again
at P0 and search the B1 range.
In this manner the system will expand the search until the carrier is
found or the user-defined acquisition range limit (B3) is reached. If the
range limit is reached without finding the carrier, an acquisition range
fault (FL9) is declared and the entire fade acquisition process will begin
again at P0.
Rev. F 08/95 2-19

As previously mentioned, immediately following RF carrier acquisition

the channel and network identifiers are matched against the
configuration within the receiver. If these match, the RF Sync and Audio
Sync indicators both illuminate and the signal is further processed by the
ABR200. However, if either of the IDs do not match, an acquisition
network ID fault (FL 31) is declared and the acquisition process
continues until the correct signal is received and detected.
2-20 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This chapter provides quick installation and startup instructions for
experienced users who are familiar with satellite communications
equipment.
It assumes that the:

• Satellite antenna is installed and aligned to the desired satellite
• IFL cable is properly installed and connected to the receiver and the
LNB downconverter at the antenna
• ABR200 is configured correctly for your network
NOTE: Ensure AC power is off before connecting or disconnecting the

IFL cable to the receiver.
Quick Installation Procedure

Under the above-listed conditions, the ABR200 is a plug-and-play
component and the system startup is straightforward. If the above
conditions do not apply, or if you experience problems following the
Quick Installation procedure, refer to Chapter 4: Full Installation and
Startup.
To perform quick installation:

1. Make sure the ABR200 is properly installed in an equipment rack
with the following connected:
– AC cord
– IFL cable
– Audio, data, and relay port cables
NOTE: Ensure adequate air flow is available around the unit.
Rev. F 08/95 3-1

Quick Installation ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
2. If the receiver was not configured at the factory with

customer-supplied satellite frequencies, then it must be configured
by the end-user.
To configure the receiver:
– An RS-232 terminal (or software equivalent [i.e.,
PROCOMM®]) must be connected to the receiver Monitor and
Control (M&C) port using the DB-9 to DB-25 adapter cable
supplied.
– The terminal must be configured to operate at 2400 baud, using
7 data bits, odd parity, and 1 stop bit.
– The following commands and associated values must be entered
at the terminal to program the minimal essential operating
parameters. Items in italics are variable syntax depending on
what information is being requested. (For more information
about any of the following commands, refer to Chapter 5:
Remote Monitor and Control Operation.)
The ABR200 is factory preset for a PLL LNB, unless otherwise
requested. Use of a DRO LNB requires that a master reset (MR)
command be invoked first with the applicable argument shown
below:
MR 0 {to select a DRO LNB}
MR 1 {to select a PLL LNB}
• Enter the channel configuration for each channel to be used.
Command format is:
CC channel_number,RF_frequency,
symbol_rate,modulation_type
• Enter the definition for the service (format) that is to be
received. Command format is:
FD format_number,network_id_number,
channel_id_number,service_authorization
• Select the desired audio service channel using the FS
(format select) command. Command format is:
FS format_number
• Initiate initial acquisition search mode by entering:
AQ 2
3-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Quick Installation
3. Observe the following about the front panel indicators:

– The green Power indicator is on and remains illuminated
signifying that power is applied to the unit.
– The front panel lights flash through a consistent sequence once
the unit is powered on. The pattern the lights follow is
dependent on the signal conditions and strength at your site.
– When signal acquisition is complete, the RF Sync and Audio
Sync indicators are illuminated (green) and the two fault
indicators (red) are off.
– The Signal indicator may or may not be illuminated based on the
signal strength.
4. Check if audio is available at the audio output port. If the receiver
configuration is correct and the receiver is permissioned from the
uplink, then audio will be heard.
You are finished installing the ABR200 satellite audio receiver system.
For further verification of proper operation of the ABR200, or if there is

a problem during quick installation, consult Chapter 4: Full Installation
and Startup.
Rev. F 08/95 3-3

Quick Installation ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
COMSTREAM
A Spar Company
3-4 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This chapter describes the steps necessary to install and start up a
complete ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver. It presents separate
instructions for outdoor equipment, the IFL cable, and indoor
equipment.
The material in this chapter may be used as a guide to overall

installation of a receiver site or a startup of selected components related
to the ABR200 system.
Installation Overview
The overall steps for installing and starting up the ABR200 are as
follows:
1. Plan the site.
2. Install and align the antenna.
3. Install the IFL cable.
4. Install the ABR200.
5. Connect the ABR200.
6. Start up the system.
7. Validate or verify the installation.
Planning the Site

The purpose of site planning is to specify where the various components
of the receiver system are to be located and to identify any special
installation or operational requirements. Time spent in planning prevents
unnecessary complications during installation and allows potential
problems to be resolved before work begins.
There are three main issues to be addressed:

• Location and mounting of the antenna assembly
• Routing of the IFL cable
• Location of the ABR200
Rev. F 08/95 4-1

Full Installation and Startup ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Installing and Aligning the Antenna

The location of the receiving antenna is the first element to be
considered. The antenna must be placed with an unobstructed
line-of-sight path to the transmitting satellite. The antenna will not
function properly if the path to the satellite is blocked or obstructed by
buildings, trees, or other objects. If possible, placement should avoid
situations that limit the field of view, such as buildings or large metal
structures.
Aside from physical considerations, the location of the antenna requires

compliance with local ordinances and building codes, particularly those
pertaining to electrical conduits. This is particularly true if the outdoor
portion of the cable is to be buried. The responsibility for complying
with local ordinances rests solely upon the purchaser of the antenna. It is
best to be aware of the local building and construction codes as early in
the planning process as possible.
After the antenna assembly is complete, install the LNB and align the
antenna as described in Appendix E: Antenna Aiming and Peaking. The
LNB installation kit includes mounting hardware for most standard feed
horns. Some feed horns may require different hardware (bolts, nuts).
Installing the IFL Cable

To ensure that the receiver operates properly, the IFL cable must meet
the specifications described in Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL)
Cable Characteristics and Preparation.
In most cases, the routing of the IFL cable from the antenna assembly to
the ABR200 consists of an outdoor run, for one part of its length, and an
indoor run for the remaining length. It is always advantageous to
carefully plan the path for the run of the IFL cable since an improper
installation can significantly degrade system performance.
In general, always try to minimize the length of the cable run. In

addition, the specifications for the cable should be carefully reviewed
with the proposed layout and intended system data rate in mind. For
example, using the recommended RG-11 cable, a run of 400 feet is
possible, assuming a 192 kbps data rate. Runs longer than 400 feet are
possible using RG-35 cable or an L-band line amplifier (use L-band line
amplifier LA-20 by Norsat (604) 597-6278) with a gain of 20 to 30 dB.
Ensure that the line amplifier also passes on the 18 VDC line voltage to
the LNB downconverter.
4-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Full Installation and Startup
Table 4-1 provides information on maximum cable losses that are

acceptable before signal degradation can be expected.
Table 4-1. IFL RG-11 Cable Loss vs. Data Rate

(assuming 5 dB Eb/No LNB output)
Data Cable Loss
Rate Maximum (dB)
384 kbps 30.5
256 kbps 30.0
128 kbps 26.5
64 kbps 23.5
Installing the ABR200

Once the antenna has been properly located and installed, attention
should be directed to the location of the receiver. The ABR200 functions
over a wide range of power and environmental conditions. An
autoranging power supply allows the receiver to use most common
utility power feeds.
For maximum availability and reliability, connect the receiver to an

uninterrupted power supply (UPS) to allow continued operation during
power outages.
The low wattage requirements and small size of the unit make it
adaptable to most installations. For detailed environmental
specifications, refer to Chapter 7: Technical Specifications and Port
Information.
The physical location of the ABR200 is flexible and largely depends on

the location of the audio processing equipment rack. The ABR200
should be located close to the equipment it will serve.
Rack-Mount
Normally, the ABR200 rack-mount unit mounts in a standard 19-inch
equipment rack, occupying one rack unit of height (1.75 inches).
To allow for adequate ventilation of the ABR200 in a rack, the ABR

requires one rack unit (1U) of free air space above it. A low to moderate
heat generating chassis can be placed directly above the ABR200, but it
must not cover the ventilation holes on the rear cover. Alternatively, the
front panel spacing can be filled in with a blank 1U rack panel, or any
other shallow, nonheat-generating filler, such as a switch plate.
Rev. F 08/95 4-3

The maximum ambient temperature specification for the ABR200 is

50º C. This temperature is measured one inch from either side of the
receiver within the rack enclosure. This temperature must not exceed
50º C to maintain the product’s warranty. Proper rack ventilation and
forced air flow techniques should be used to ensure the internal ambient
temperature within the rack does not exceed the ABR200 specifications.
ComStream strongly recommends that surge suppression be used on the

AC input to the ABR200, or any rack that contains an ABR200. There
are many surge suppression vendors that can recommend and supply
products to meet your voltage and power requirements.
In addition, placement of the ABR200 should allow access to its rear

panel.
Desktop
To ensure proper ventilation cooling of the desktop unit, do not place
obstructions within six inches of the ventilation holes on the sides or on
top of the unit.
NOTE: The IDU should be rack-mounted only in enclosures that will

not exceed an ambient temperature of 50° C.
External Connections
This section describes the physical and electrical connections to the
ABR200 receiver.
CAUTION: Ensure that the power to the ABR200 is off when

connecting or disconnecting either end of the cable that
connects to RF In. Failure to do so may cause equipment
damage.
4-4 Rev. F 08/95

All external connections to the ABR200 are made through the rear panel
connectors. The ABR200 has eight possible connections on the rear
panel. The location of these connectors is shown in Figures 4-1 and 4-2
for the rack-mount and desktop models, respectively. Each connector is
different, either in size or type, from the other (except for RF In and
Out) so that errors are minimized in making connections.
Figure 4-1. ABR200 Rear Panel Connectors, Rack-Mount Chassis
Figure 4-2. ABR200 Rear Panel Connectors, Desktop Chassis
The pinouts for these interfaces are detailed in Appendix A: Interface

Pinouts.
NOTE: To ensure compliance with emission standards, all signal

cables connected to the receiver should be shielded. The shield
must be electrically attached to the mating connector.
Audio Out
Connector Type: DB-9, Male (Analog Audio)
The Audio Out port provides the analog audio output for left and right
audio channels. The outputs are direct coupled, actively balanced, with
the capability to drive 600 ohm impedance. To ensure against circuit
damage resulting from short circuits, a series current-limiting resistor
(30 ohm) is placed between the op-amp output and the connector.
When operating in the mono mode, there are several options for the
output audio signal mapping. For information about signal mapping,
refer to the left and right toggle (L/R) and mute (MU) commands in
Rev. F 08/95 4-5

A mating female DB-9 connector, with a metal shell cover, is supplied

with the audio receiver for connecting to studio equipment. The user is
required to supply the interconnecting cable, which should be a shielded,
twisted pair audio cable.
AUX (Auxiliary)
Connector Type: DB-15, Female (Various Signals)
The auxiliary port provides a connection to a variety of signals for

optional use, including:
• Status relay contacts
• Digital audio output
• AGC monitor voltage
• Composite (ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA data) synchronous RS-422
receive clock/data output
Status Relay
The Status Relay contacts are made at this connector. The Status Relay
output provides the capability for an external indication of errors in the
satellite receiver system operation. The Status Relay tracks the front
panel IDU Fault indicator and consists of a contact closure that remains
inactive during normal operation.
When an error condition is observed, the relay will activate, allowing the
situation to be detected. The sense of the relay may be programmed to
be either inactive open or closed using the status relay sense (SS)
command described in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation. The Status Relay may be used to switch in an alternate audio
source feed or to trigger an audio alarm to alert the operators that a
problem exists.
A powerful feature of the Status Relay is its ability to be programmed to

trigger when specific user-selected fault conditions are detected while
ignoring others. This allows the status relay actions to be customized for
the conditions at a specific receiver installation. The status relay mask
(SR) command provides this customizing ability. (For specific details,
refer to Chapter 5: A Remote Monitor and Control Operation.)
4-6 Rev. F 08/95

There is a short circuit between pins 1 and 2 on the physical layout of

the relay K1; this translates to pins 2 and 9 on the ABR connector J2, as
shown in Figure 4-3. If a fault occurs or the power supply fails, the
connection becomes an open circuit.
NOTE: The Status Relay output should not be used to switch currents
greater than 1 amp.
Figure 4-3. Relay K1 and J2 ABR Connector
AES/EBU Digital Audio Output
A digital pulse coded modulation (PCM) audio output is also available.

This interface operates per the AES/EBU interface specification. This
interface permits direct connection to studio equipment or digital audio
tape recorders that support the AES/EBU interface. Higher quality audio
is thereby possible since all of the digital-analog and analog-digital
conversion noise is alleviated with digital PCM.
Rev. F 08/95 4-7

AGC Monitor Voltage
For aiding in antenna pointing, an analog version of the automatic gain

control (AGC) is made available on this connector. The analog voltage
range is from 0 to 10 VDC and is a representation of the incoming signal
strength. This voltage is measured with respect to the signal ground, pin
1, on the Auxiliary connector. Zero volts indicates there is no receive
signal present, and 10 volts indicates the receive signal is at the
maximum level, as shown in Figure 4-4.
Figure 4-4. Signal Strength versus AGC Voltage
RS-422 Digital Audio Output
The undecoded audio data stream is on this connector as RS-422 data

and clock signal pairs. This interface operates synchronously with the
output data being valid on the falling edge of the receive timing clock
that is also provided. Possible use for this data is to implement a store
and forward digital audio system. The encoded audio data stream can be
directly stored onto a hard disk device and then later played back into a
ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA decoder or the ABR200.
Relay/Control
Connector Type: DB-25, Male (Various Signals)
The Relay/Control port provides eight separate form A (SPST) relay

contacts that are controlled from the uplink. Each contact can be
programmed independently or in combination with other contacts. The
polarity (normally open or closed) is also configurable (either locally or
from the uplink). The relay contacts are intended to be used to control
external equipment, either audio or other station equipment.
4-8 Rev. F 08/95

Seven TTL sensor inputs are provided for external control of channel
selection or for ancillary equipment monitoring. Each input is internally
pulled up to +5 VDC through a 4.7 K ohm resistor. These inputs can be
directly monitored via the TTL sensor input query (SI) command. The
first three inputs permit selection of up to eight different RF audio
channels by connecting a rotary (or similar) switch to the inputs. A
contact closure from the input to the ground pin provided on this
connector activates the input. The actual RF channel frequencies are
programmed either locally or from the uplink and are stored into eight
presets.
The second group of three inputs can be used to trigger an automatic

dial-out trouble reporting call into the uplink facility when activated.
(For more information, refer to the FL command section in Chapter 5:
Remote Monitor and Control Operation.) The seventh input is used as
the M&C Port reset.
Also available on this port is +12 VDC. The output is currently limited
to 50 mA. One possible use for this voltage is to support interfacing to
coupled inputs of user equipment.
Data
Connector Type: DB-25, Female (RS-232)
The Data port provides an asynchronous RS-232 data output. The data is
part of the audio data stream transmitted from the uplink. Data rates up
to 9600 baud are supported. The port can be configured by the user via
the user data port configuration (P1) command described in Chapter 5:
Remote Monitor and Control Operation. Flow control is not
implemented for this interface.
NOTE: To use the 9600 bps speed, the receiver must have version 1.16
or higher of the ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA decoder software
installed. Otherwise, the maximum throughput is 4800 baud.
NOTE: The sending device (i.e., DAC400) must use 2 stop bits with
the ABR200 Data port configured for 1 stop bit. For data
channel configuration information, refer to the DAC400
Installation and Operation Guide.
Rev. F 08/95 4-9

M&C
Connector Type: DB-9, Female (RS-232)
The M&C port is used to connect an RS-232 control terminal or

telephone modem to the ABR200. During normal system operation,
commands are received from the uplink via the control channel.
However, control and diagnostic commands can also be issued to the
receiver through this port. During normal operation, the front panel LED
indicators display summary failure information. The diagnostic port is
used to provide detailed information on the ABR200 status.
The M&C port is configurable via the M&C port configuration (P2)
command described in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation.
With the ComStream-approved, Hayes-compatible telephone modem

(CPN 30-0120-194) connected to the M&C port, a terrestrial backlink to
a network uplink can be established for remote performance monitoring.
(For more information about telephone modem operation, refer to
Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation.)
NOTE: The data terminal ready (DTR) lines must be active for proper
operation. The default port configuration is 2400 baud, 7 data
bits, 1 stop bit, and odd parity.
Since the M&C port can be reprogrammed, it may be necessary to reset

the port to the default configuration. To reset:
1. Connect the MCRESET (Relay Control port, pin 12) pin to signal
ground (Aux port, pin 1).
2. Remove and reinsert the power cord of the ABR200.
3. After power is turned on and the initialization process is complete,
disconnect pin 12 from pin 1.
4-10 Rev. F 08/95

RF In
Connector Type: F, 75 ohm, Female (RF)
The RF In port is the primary input to the receiver. The RF signal is

brought into the receiver through this connector. ABR200 units may be
daisy-chained by connecting the RF Out of one unit to the RF In of
another.
The power of the input carrier should be in the range of -75 dBm to
-30 dBm with the RF frequency in the range of 950 MHz to 1700 MHz.
The total power in the 950 MHz to 1700 MHz band should be less than
-10 dBm. The input impedance is 75 ohm, with a return loss of greater
than 8 dB.
The RF In connector on the back panel also supplies +18 VDC (500 mA
maximum) to the LNB downconverter. This is supplied through the
center conductor of the connector via the IFL cable. Caution should be
exercised when:
• Fabricating an IFL cable. Using connectors or cables other than
those specified in Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable
Characteristics and Preparation may result in shorting the +18 V to
connector ground, which may damage the equipment. Ensure the
cable’s center conductor slides into the receptor cup of the
connector’s center pin prior to crimping the connector.
• Connecting any extraneous test equipment (e.g., simulator) to the RF
In port. A suitable DC blocking capacitor must be connected
between the port and external equipment to prevent a possible short
from overloading the internal +18 V regulator circuitry.
NOTE: Ensure that power to the ABR200 is off when making

connections on either end of the cable that connects to RF In.
Rev. F 08/95 4-11

RF Out
Connector Type: F, 75 ohm, Female (RF)
The RF Out connector provides a buffered duplicate of the signal

presented to the RF In connector. The RF Out can be used to connect an
L-band video receiver for receive-only video applications or to connect
additional ABR200 receivers for simultaneous reception of multiple
audio channels. It can also be used for diagnosing problems in system
performance or as an aid in antenna pointing.
The frequency range of the Video Output is identical to that of the

receiver, 950 MHz to 1700 MHz. The gain of the Video Output is -2 dB
to +5 dB, nominal +2 dB. The output impedance is 75 ohm with a return
loss greater than 8 dB.
Power Connector
Connector Type: IEC 320, Male socket
The ABR200 power supply is autoranging from 90 to 264 VAC and 47

to 63 Hz. Maximum power supply output for the ABR200 is 52 watts.
The typical power consumption for the ABR200 is less than 40 watts.
There is no power on/off switch on the receiver. Remove the AC power
cable from the unit to turn the power off.
NOTE: Always power down the ABR200 before connecting or

disconnecting signal cables to the unit.
If an unterminated power cord is supplied with the unit, the appropriate

certified termination plug must be installed. The power cord wires are
color-coded as follows:
• Green and Yellow: earth/ground
• Blue: neutral
• Brown: live
If the color code described does not correspond to the colored markings
identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
1. The green and yellow wire must be connected to the terminal in the
plug marked by the letter E or by the earth symbol, or colored green
and yellow.
2. The blue wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the
letter N, or colored black.
3. The brown wire must be connected to the terminal marked with the
letter P, or colored red.
4-12 Rev. F 08/95

Table 4-2 lists the required certifying agencies for some countries.
Table 4-2. Certifying Agencies by Country

Country Agency Country Agency Country Agency
Australia SAA Ireland IIRS New Zealand HECT
Austria OVE Italy IMQ " SANZ
Belgium CEBEC Japan MITI Norway NEMKO
Canada CSA Netherlands KEMA Republic of SABS
South Africa
Denmark DEMKO New Zealand SECV Spain AEE
Finland FEI " SECQ Sweden SEMKO
France UTE " SECWA Switzerland SEV
Germany VDE " EANSW United ASTA
Kingdom BSI
India ISI " ETSA
Rev. F 08/95 4-13

Starting Up the System

This section describes the activities necessary to bring an assembled
ABR200 system online. The following steps assume that the antenna,
IFL cable, and ABR200 have been properly installed and connected. Do
not proceed until this setup is complete.
NOTE: Always power down the ABR200 before connecting or

disconnecting either end of the cable that connects to the RF In
port.
If problems are encountered in the startup sequence, refer to the “Startup

Problems” section of this chapter and Chapter 6: Maintenance and
Troubleshooting.
To start up the ABR200:

1. Make sure the ABR200 is properly installed in the equipment rack
with the IFL cable and the audio/data cables connected.
2. Turn on the unit by connecting the AC power cable to the unit and
observe the front panel LEDs. The front panel lights flash through a
consistent sequence when the unit is first powered on. The pattern
the lights follow is dependent on the signal conditions and strength
at your site. When acquisition is complete, the Power, RF, and
Audio Sync LEDs are illuminated, and the IDU and ODU Fault
LEDs are not illuminated. The Signal LED may or may not be
illuminated based on the signal strength and the Q0 (Low Signal
Quality Threshold Level) and Q1 (High Signal Quality Threshold
Level) command settings.
3. Check to see if audio is available at the Audio Out port. If the
network is properly configured and the receiver properly authorized,
audio will be present.
At this point the ABR200 is ready for verifying proper equipment setup
and operation.
4-14 Rev. F 08/95

Validating Installation
Once the ABR200 has been powered up, verify that the unit is connected
properly for the audio, data, and relay ports. This is accomplished by
communicating with the receiver using an ASCII terminal and
performing several diagnostic commands. The electrical interface is
RS-232, and the DB-9 to DB-25 adapter cable supplied should be used
to connect the receiver’s M&C port to the DB-25 connector on your
terminal. The terminal should be configured for 2400 baud, 7 data bits,
1 stop bit, and odd parity.
To establish communication with the receiver:

1. At the ASCII terminal connected to the ABR200, press the ENTER
key on the terminal. The receiver should respond with an ASCII
login request string.
2. Type the default password HOMEYD (must use all caps). When
successful communication has been accomplished, the terminal
displays a > prompt, indicating it is ready to accept commands.
Once the communications link with the ABR200 is established, the

following steps can be used to verify proper receiver operation.
NOTE: For an alphabetical listing of commands and proper command

syntax, refer to Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation.
1. Validate the:
a. Audio interface. Enter AT 3 and verify that a 1000 Hz audio
tone is present on both left and right audio outputs. This can be
accomplished at the receiver or at an appropriate patch panel
location. Use the AT 1 and AT 2 commands, respectively, to
properly identify left and right channels. When the test is
complete enter AT 0.
b. Relay port interface. Each individual relay closure contact can
be activated (closed/opened) or deactivated (opened/closed) via
the terminal using the CO (contact closure) and CS (contact
sense) commands. Each line should be verified to exercise the
external equipment connection to ensure proper operation.
Ensure that CO is returned to all Xs.
Rev. F 08/95 4-15

c. Data port interface. Connect the data port to the data terminal
equipment (DTE) device. Ensure the data port configuration
(P1 command) and the DTE configuration agree. At the M&C
terminal enter X1 1 to initiate the data port test. The string,
THE QUICK BROWN FOX JUMPS OVER THE LAZY DOG
0123456789, should be printed out at the DTE. If not, recheck
all connections and configurations. When finished, enter X1 0
to stop the test.
d. Receiver operation. Enter ST ? to verify the status of the
ABR200. The ST 0 response indicates status zero or no faults.
• Enter CF 0 to clear the fault register.
• Enter EB ? to verify the Eb/No of the link.
2. Verify the operation of the ABR200 compared to the link budget for
a particular installation. Enter FL 0. The response should be FL 0
indicating no faults have been detected since the CF 0 command.
Keep in mind that other factors, such as weather, may affect this
measurement. If faults are observed, refer to Chapter 5: Remote
Monitor and Control Operation for more information on the FL
command.
At this point, the ABR200 installation is verified and ready for normal
operation.
Startup Problems
This section describes common problems encountered during startup. In
general, the ABR200 has been designed for unattended operation and
few problems should be encountered.
The ABR200 is factory preset for a PLL LNB, unless ordered otherwise.
Use of a DRO LNB requires that a master reset (MR) command be
invoked with the applicable argument shown below:
MR 0 {to select a DRO LNB}
MR 1 {to select a PLL LNB}
For more information, refer to Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control

Operation.
4-16 Rev. F 08/95

The receiver will not lock onto the satellite signal
The most common cause of this problem is a lack of signal at the RF

input. If there is a problem with the signal, most likely it is improper
pointing of the antenna or the IFL cable. An indication of a lack of
signal is the AGC value. If the AGC gain factor (AG) command (AG ?)
indicates a value of 255, there is no signal present.
To troubleshoot this problem:

1. Ensure the antenna is properly assembled, and recheck the antenna
alignment to ensure it is pointed to the proper satellite. If not, refer
to Appendix D: Antenna Installation (Prodelin) and
Appendix E: Antenna Aiming an dPeaking for instructions.
2. Check the connectors on the IFL cable for proper installation. With
the cable disconnected, ensure the cable passes a continuity and
no-short test.
3. Measure the DC output of the ABR200 at RF Out. The DC level
should be approximately 18 V. If DC is present here, the ABR200
power supply is OK.
4. Attach the IFL cable to the ABR200 and measure the DC voltage at
the antenna end of the cable. If there is no DC voltage present on the
center conductor of the IFL, the cable is defective.
• If the DC value is below 15 V, there is an excessive DC voltage
drop in the cable due to improper installation or use of the
incorrect cable for the distance.
• If the DC value is 15 V minimum, connect the cable to the LNB
downconverter. If the AG value is still 255, then the LNB
downconverter is probably defective or the antenna is not
pointed correctly.
5. Ensure the correct polarization of the LNB for the network is set. If
it is incorrect, you could have a strong AG value but not be able to
lock on to the carrier.
If the antenna is pointed correctly and the signal is present (AG other
than 255), but the unit will not acquire, then there could be many
possible causes. Enter DP on the diagnostic terminal. Check the values
of B1, B2, and B3.
Check the values of the FS, FD, and CC commands. These are
dependent on the network configuration. If these commands do not
match the values for the network hub, the receiver will not acquire the
signal. Contact the Network Administrator for assistance.
If any of the other values vary from their expected values, change it to
its proper value and enter AQ 2 to restart signal acquisition.
Rev. F 08/95 4-17

No audio is received from the Audio Out port
If the front panel Audio Sync LED is on (signal is locked) but no audio
is available, the most likely cause is that the receiver is not authorized to
receive audio or there is a cabling problem.
To troubleshoot this problem:

1. Double check the pinouts on the cable and run the audio test
described in the previous section.
2. Execute the audio sync status (AS) command, which will indicate if
the audio output is muted and why. For more information, refer to
3. Check with the Network Administrator to ensure audio is available
on the output port you are checking.
For other problems or ideas, refer to Chapter 6: Maintenance and

Troubleshooting.
Using the DAC400 and ABR200 in Baseband Mode

To operate the DAC400 with the ABR200 in baseband mode, a cable
must be built as per the information presented in Table 4-3.
Table 4-3. Cable for Direct Connection Between DAC400 and ABR200 Decoder
(no modem)
Encoder ABR200
DB-15, Male, Line 1 Signal Name DB-15, Male, Aux Port Signal Name
Pin Number Pin Number
2 Send Data A 7 RD+
9 Send Data B 14 RD-
7 (jumped to 3*) Send Timing A 13 RT+
14 (jumped to 10*) Send Timing B 6 RT-
8 Signal Ground 1 Signal Ground
* Shorted on same connector
To operate in baseband mode, follow these steps:

1. Place the receiver in DX 2 mode, this will input the ISO/MPEG
Layer II/IIA data stream from the DAC400 to the baseband input of
the receiver’s Aux port.
2. Set dipswitch 10 of the DAC400 to the up position, so as to provide
a clock to the modem.
4-18 Rev. F 08/95

Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation
Overview
In audio distribution networks, the ABR200 is normally configured and
controlled from the uplink via the Audio Network Management System
(ANMS). In this configuration, the user typically does not need to
communicate directly with the receiver. However, during receiver
installation, troubleshooting, or performance monitoring, direct
communication may be required.
This chapter details the remote control operation of the receiver.

Complete monitoring and control of the receiver is available using an
ASCII computer terminal connected to the RS-232 M&C port located on
the rear of the unit. Alternatively, a telephone modem may be connected
to the M&C port permitting access from a remote terminal. (For more
information, refer to Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation.)
Commands are input by the user to set or display ABR200 parameters.

ABR200 codes are output by the receiver to indicate errors, faults, or
current status. This chapter:
• Describes the ABR200 command syntax
• Explains each functional group of commands
• Presents errors, faults, and status codes
• Provides an alphabetical listing of all ABR200 commands and codes
Command Syntax
Commands are input to the ABR200 by sending a sequence of ASCII
characters to the receiver M&C port. Each message consists of an
(optional) escape character, a two-letter mnemonic string, a single-space
character, and an optional parameter followed by a carriage return. All
characters following the carriage return but preceding the next escape
character are ignored. Commands may be entered in either upper or
lowercase.
Most commands are used to establish internal parameter values and

interrogate their current value. The parameter may be either a
single-digit number referenced as n, a multiple-digit number referenced
as nnnnn, or a single ASCII character or string designated s or string.
Syntax that appears in italics represents variable characters; this syntax
varies depending on what information is being requested.
Rev. F 08/95 5-1

Remote Monitor and Control Operation ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Parameter values are interrogated by replacing the numeric parameter in

the command string with a question mark (?) character, or by simply
entering a carriage return immediately following the two-character
command. Some commands do not have parameters associated with
them and are terminated with a carriage return.
Example 1:
command SP ?
Example 2:
command
The first example requests the receiver display the current parameter
value(s). The second example demonstrates the syntax for a command
that does not require a parameter (i.e., RE, DC, DP, etc.).
Command actions are performed if the:

• Command is valid
• Parameter value is within the valid range
• Parameter value or command is compatible with the present receiver
configuration
• Command or query can be executed immediately
Commands that do not follow these guidelines produce an error code.
Password Protection
In providing a measure of security from unauthorized access to the
receiver, a login password is provided. The factory default for the
password is HOMEYD. The sense of capitalization is important only for
the password. The command and associated parameter syntax is such
that the character case is not distinguished. The user is requested to
change the password, using the password change (PC) command, if
protection is desired.
5-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Remote Monitor and Control Operation
Command Error Codes

Command errors occur when a command has been mistyped, is
inappropriate, or cannot be immediately executed. The normal response
of the receiver is to display one of the error codes/descriptions shown in
Table 5-1.
Table 5-1. Error Codes/Descriptions

Error Description
ER 1 Command format error
ER 2 Parameter out of range
ER 3 Command not supported by configuration
ER 4 Command temporarily not supported
Command Groups
Most commands establish the operating characteristics of the receiver.
These commands install permanent values into memory that remain in
place unless changed by the operator. Operators should avoid changing
configuration values unless they are certain of the result. Most of the
operating parameters are established at the uplink at the time of
installation and do not change except under specific conditions.
ABR200 commands are grouped into nine functional areas:

• L-band Demodulator
• Channel Control
• Audio Port
• Data Port
• Relay Port
• M&C Port
• Alarm/Status
• Front Panel
• Miscellaneous
Rev. F 08/95 5-3

Tables 5-2 through 5-11 list the commands and their description.
NOTE: The characteristics and use of each command group, along

with a summary of commands in the group, are discussed in
following sections. The detailed usage and syntax of individual
commands is presented in the alphabetical listing at the end of
this chapter.
Table 5-2. L-band Demodulator Commands

Command Description
AG AGC Gain Factor
AO Acquisition Offset
Frequency
AQ Acquisition Mode
B1 Primary Search (Binning)
Range
B2 Secondary Search (Binning)
Range
B3 Overall Search (Binning)
Range
CE Channel Error Rate
DC Display Configuration of
Receiver
DQ Data Rate Query
EB Eb/No Signal Level Query
EM Eb/No Minimum Receive
Level
LO Local Oscillator Offset
LT LNB Type
RB Read Calculated Bit Error
Rate
RF Read RF Value
5-4 Rev. F 08/95

Table 5-3. Channel Control Commands

Command Description
CC Channel Configuration
FD Format Definition
FS Format Select
LA Logical Address Definition
LC Local Format Change Permission
NS Network Status
PD Preset Definition
Table 5-4. Audio Port Commands

Command Description
AS Audio Status
AT Audio Test
LR Left/Right Channel Toggle
M0 Eb/No Mute On
M1 Eb/No Mute Off
MU Audio Mute
Table 5-5. Data Port Commands

Command Description
P1 User Data Port Configuration
S1 Interface Select for Auxiliary Data
X1 Exercise User Data Port
Table 5-6. Relay Port Commands

Command Description
CM Relay Contact Mapping
CO Relay Contact Control
CQ Relay Contact Query
CS Relay Contact Sense
Rev. F 08/95 5-5

Table 5-7. M&C Port Commands

Command Description
BY Bye—Logout
EE Echo Terminal Input
P2 M&C Port Configuration
PA Packet Address
PC Password Change
PO Packet-Only
S2 Monitor and Control Interface Select
X2 Exercise M&C Port
Table 5-8. Alarm/Status Commands

Command Description
AL Alarm Reporting
CF Clear Fault Register
ET Eb/No Alarm Threshold Level
EX Maximum Eb/No
FL Fault Query
HM Hex Mode
NF Number of RF Signal Fades
SI TTL Sensor Input Query
SL Audio Sync Loss Counter
SR Status Relay Mask
SS Status Relay Sense
ST Status Query
Table 5-9. Front Panel Commands

Command Description
OM ODU Fault Mask
Q0 Low Signal Quality Threshold Level
Q1 High Signal Quality Threshold Level
5-6 Rev. F 08/95

Table 5-10. Miscellaneous Commands

Command Description
AP CS8204 Inputs
DE Composite Data Port Enable
DM Display Message
DP Display Parameters of Receiver
DX Decoder Data Source
EN Enable Network Data
ID Receiver ID Query
MR Master Reset
P3 Printer Port Configuration
RE System Reset
Table 5-11. Terrestrial Backlink Commands (v1.37)

Command Description
AI Alarm Interval
F1 Fault Mask 1
F2 Fault Mask 2
T1 Backlink Telephone Number 1
TB Terrestrial Backlink
TI Telco Initialization
Rev. F 08/95 5-7

Table 5-12. Alphabetical Command Listing

Command Description
AG AGC Gain Factor
AI Alarm Interval
AL Alarm Reporting
AO Acquisition Offset Frequency
AP CS8204 Inputs
AQ Acquisition Mode
AS Audio Status
AT Audio Test
B1 Primary Search (Binning) Range
B2 Secondary Search (Binning) Range
B3 Overall Search (Binning) Range
BY Bye—Logout
DC Display Configuration of Receiver
DM Display Message
DQ Data Rate Query
EM Eb/No Minimum Receive Level
EX Eb/No Maximum
F1 Fault Mask 1
F2 Fault Mask 2
FL Fault Query
FS Format Select
HM Hex Mode
5-8 Rev. F 08/95

Table 5-12. Alphabetical Command Listing (continued)

Command Description
LT LNB Type
M0 Eb/No Mute On
M1 Eb/No Mute Off
MR Master Reset
MU Audio Mute
NS Network Status
OM ODU Fault Mask
PA Packet Address
PC Password Change
PO Packet-Only
RB Read Calculated Bit Error Rate
RE System Reset
RF Read RF Value
SL Audio Sync Loss Count
ST Status Query
Rev. F 08/95 5-9

Command Descriptions in Alphabetical Order

Following is a list of commands with a detailed description of each
command. Some commands are only available for software versions
1.37 or higher. These commands are also explained in Appendix G:
Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes.
Items in italics are variable syntax depending on what information is

being requested.
AG AGC Gain Factor

Syntax: AG ?
The AG command displays the gain factor applied to the received RF

signal. During normal operation, the gain factor is constantly adjusted so
that it brings the baseband signal to the same level regardless of input
signal power. A value of 255 indicates no signal is present. A value of 0
indicates the receive signal is too strong.
AI Alarm Interval (v1.37+)

Syntax: AI n
AI ?
The alarm interval command allows the user to specify the length of
time the receiver waits between backlink attempts. This command also
allows the user to disable the monitoring for faults that may cause an
attempt to establish a backlink.
n specifies the length of time the receiver waits between backlink

attempts when a fault is detected. The range for n is 0 to 65535 and the
units are in minutes. A value of 0 for n disables the monitoring of faults,
which prohibits the receiver from attempting any backlinks.
AL Alarm Reporting
Syntax: AL n
AL ?
This command enables/disables the automatic reporting of alarms to the
M&C port. Acceptable parameter values (n) are 1 for enabling fault
reporting and 0 for disabling fault reporting. This command has no
effect on the operation of other commands, such as ST (status query) and
FL (fault query). The status of the faults can still be monitored by the FL
query (?) command. The default value is 1 (enabled).
5-10 Rev. F 08/95

AO Acquisition Offset Frequency

Syntax: AO ?
The AO command is a query-only command that displays the value of

the acquisition offset. The acquisition offset is used to optimize the
power-on acquisition process. The acquisition offset value is used by the
ABR200 in its calculations for the frequency at which it will begin its
search for the RF carrier on a power-on acquisition. The value of AO is
automatically updated to the local offset (LO) value if the LO value is
ever greater than 1 MHz. On subsequent power cycles, the ABR200 uses
this offset value in AO to shorten the time needed to find the RF carrier.
AP CS8204 Inputs
Syntax: AP n
AP ?
This command allows the user to configure the AES/EBU interface. This
interface provides a digital PCM audio output on the Aux port connector
of the ABR200. This interface operates per the AES3-119X (ANSI
S4.40-199X) interface specification. This specification allows
transmission of control information along with the digital audio data
stream.
The ABR200 uses the CS8204 digital transmitter manufactured by

Crystal semiconductor. The CS8204 is only operated in the professional
(PRO) mode. The AP command provides users with the ability to
program specific values at the input pins of the CS8204, and these pins
will specify the control information to be transmitted.
The AP command is AP n, where n is the decimal equivalent of the bit

map of the CS8204 control interface, shown in Table 5-13. The default
value for AP is 15.
Table 5-13. CS8204 Programming Inputs

Bit CS8204
Position Pin Name Function n
0 EM 0 Encoded encoder emphasis 1
1 EM 1 Encoded encoder emphasis 2
2 C1/ Inverse of channel status bit 1 4
6 CRE Sample address counter control 64
7 Not Applicable (N/A) N/A
Rev. F 08/95 5-11

The inputs to the CS8204 are encoded as shown in Table 5-14.
Table 5-14. CS8204 Programming States

Pin Input Option
Name State Selected
EM 0, EM 1 1,1 * Receiver defaults to no emphasis,
manual override enabled
0,0 CCITT J.17 emphasis, no override
1,0 50/15 usec emphasis, override disable
0,1 No emphasis, manual override disable
C1\ 0 Nonaudio mode
1* Normal audio mode
C6\,C7\ 1,0 * Sampling frequency = 48 kHz, no
override or autosetting
1,1 Sampling frequency defaults to 48 kHz
with manual or autosetting enabled
C9\ 0* Stereophonic mode, channel 1 is left,
manual override is disabled
1 Receiver defaults to 2 channel mode,
manual override is enabled
CRE 0* Sample address counter reset
1 Local sample counter and reliability
flag are internally generated
* Default value
5-12 Rev. F 08/95

AQ Acquisition Mode
Syntax: AQ n
AQ ?
This command is used to establish the acquisition type and to query the
receiver for the currently active acquisition type. The value of n
specifies what type of acquisition the receiver is to perform or, if
queried, reports back the status of the receiver’s acquisition state. Table
5-15 is a listing of the acquisition types and the corresponding action or
status that they represent.
Table 5-15. Acquisition Type, Action, and Status

Type Action Status
0 Disable acquisition Acquisition
disabled/complete
1 Initiate fade acquisition Fade acquisition in
progress
2 Initiate power-on acquisition Power-on acquisition in
progress
3 None Channel change
acquisition in progress
An acquisition mode of 0 indicates acquisition has been disabled or the

previous acquisition is complete. When the ABR200 achieves RF sync
and audio sync, it sets the acquisition mode to 0 to indicate that the
previous acquisition was successfully completed. An AQ 0 entered by
the user instructs the ABR200 to disable all acquisition processes.
NOTE: Entering a value of 0 for n will disable any acquisition in

progress. The ABR200 will NOT begin a new acquisition until
an AQ 1, AQ 2, or FS n is entered. Normally, disabling
acquisition is not desirable.
A fade acquisition is automatically initiated whenever RF sync is lost

while the receiver is locked onto a carrier. During a fade acquisition the
ABR200 concentrates its search for the RF carrier at the frequency
where it last achieved RF sync.
A power-on acquisition occurs any time the ABR200 is power cycled. A

power-on acquisition begins its search for the RF carrier at the start
acquisition frequency. The start acquisition frequency is calculated by
the ABR200 using the value of the RF parameter defined in the channel
configuration (CC) command. It also adds the offset value specified in
the acquisition offset (AO) command to the calculated start acquisition
frequency.
Rev. F 08/95 5-13

A channel change acquisition is performed when the ABR200 is locked

to one RF carrier or RF channel and is then instructed to switch to
another RF carrier. The ABR200 is instructed to switch to a new channel
via the format select (FS) command, not the AQ command. The FS
command must be used since it programs the receiver with all of the
channel parameters for the new RF carrier. The ABR200 needs these
channel parameters to achieve RF and audio sync on the new RF carrier.
Since the ABR200 is already locked onto an RF carrier, it has
knowledge of the offsets present in the system. It uses this offset value,
which is stored in the LO command, in its calculations for the frequency
at which it searches for the new RF carrier. The ABR200 will only
search one frequency bin for the new RF carrier. If the RF carrier is not
found within this first bin, then the ABR200 performs a fade acquisition
using the frequency where it last achieved RF and audio sync. A detailed
description of the ABR200 binning and acquisition processes can be
found in Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory of Operation.
AS Audio Status
Syntax: AS ?
This command queries the receiver for the current audio status. If the
audio is enabled, a value of 0 is returned. If the audio is disabled
(muted), a nonzero value is returned. The value returned when audio is
disabled is a weighted sum of the conditions causing the audio to be
disabled. The conditions causing the audio to mute are mapped as shown
in Table 5-16.
Table 5-16. Muted Conditions for Audio

Mute Condition Weight (hex) Weight (dec)
No RF sync 0x01 1
Low Eb/No 0x02 2
Internal mute (MU=1) 0x04 4
No audio sync 0x08 8
Not authorized to 0x10 16
receive audio
System mute 0x20 32
Acquisition mute 0x40 64
5-14 Rev. F 08/95

AT Audio Test
Syntax: AT n,length
AT ?
The n in the syntax above is the number of the audio test to be

performed. The length is an optional parameter that specifies the length
of time that the selected audio test is to run. The units for the length are
in seconds and its range is 1 to 65535. If no parameter is given for the
length, then the selected audio test runs until manually terminated with
an AT 0 command.
The audio test command selects the available audio test that the digital
audio signal processor can perform. Valid number values are 0 to 7, as
shown in Table 5-17.
Table 5-17. Audio Built-In Self-Tests

Number Test
0 None, normal operating state
1 1 kHz tone, left channel
2 1 kHz tone, right channel
3 1 kHz tone, both channels
4 Built-in audio processor test
5 9.6 kHz tone, left channel
6 9.6 kHz tone, right channel
7 9.6 kHz tone, both channels
When operating these commands from the M&C port, the selected test
will run continuously if no parameter is specified.
NOTE: When operating this command over the satellite control

channel without a length parameter, the test is only valid for
five seconds.
When AT 4 is processed, the built-in tests execute continuously until

halted (with AT not equal to 4) or a fault occurs. When you enter AT 4,
the DSP software version number is also displayed. The default value
is 0.
Rev. F 08/95 5-15

Table 5-18 provides detailed performance specifications for the audio

tests.
Table 5-18. Audio Test Performance Specifications

Test Frequency Output Level THD Termination
AT3 1.00 kHz +4.00 dBm 0.01% 100 K ohm
AT3 1.00 kHz +3.25 dBm 0.01% 600 ohm
AT3 1.00 kHz +1.11 dBm 0.01% 150 ohm
AT7 9.60 kHz +4.00 dBm 0.01% 100 K ohm
AT7 9.60 kHz +3.25 dBm 0.01% 600 ohm
AT7 9.60 kHz +1.11 dBm 0.01% 150 ohm
B1 Primary Search (Binning) Range

Syntax: B1 ?
The B1 command is a query-only command that returns the value of the

frequency range that will be searched for the primary (B1) bin. The
value of this parameter is determined by the symbol rate and is given in
units of kHz.
B1 and B2 are used together. When performing fade acquisition, the B1

range is searched first for the carrier signal. If the carrier is not found in
the B1 range, the range indicated by the B2 parameter is searched above
and below the B1 range. After the search of a B2 range, the B1 range is
searched again. When all B2 ranges have been searched within the user-
specified acquisition range limit (B2) without finding the carrier, the
search pattern is repeated from the beginning. A detailed description of
the ABR200 acquisition process can be found in Chapter 2: Functional
Description and Theory of Operation.
5-16 Rev. F 08/95

B2 Secondary Search (Binning) Range

Syntax: B2 ?
The B2 command is a query-only command that returns the value of the

frequency range that will be searched upon a fade acquisition for the
secondary (B2) bin.
The value of B2 is determined by the symbol rate and is given in units of

kHz. It denotes the frequency range to search for the carrier outside the
B1 range. If the carrier has not been located when all the B2 ranges are
exhausted, the search begins again. A detailed description of the
ABR200 acquisition process can be found in Chapter 2: Functional
Description and Theory of Operation.
B3 Overall Search (Binning) Range

Syntax: B3 nnnn
B3 ?
The B3 command is used to specify the maximum frequency range that

will be searched when the ABR200 is attempting to acquire the carrier in
either installation or fade acquisition mode. Valid values are between 0
and 4000 in units of kHz offset from the RF frequency plus the
acquisition offset defined by AO. The ? parameter causes the current B3
value to be displayed.
The default values are 2,000 when operating with a DRO LNB and 200
when operating with a PLL LNB.
The nnnn parameter denotes the overall frequency range to search for
the carrier. When this value is reached, the acquisition search is repeated
from the beginning. A detailed description of the ABR200 acquisition
process can be found in Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory
of Operation.
BY Bye—Logout
Syntax: BY
This command performs a manual logout. The receiver automatically

logs out after five minutes of inactivity at the M&C port.
Rev. F 08/95 5-17

Syntax: CC Channel_n,RF_nnnn,RR_nnnn,RM_n
CC Channel_n,ZAP
CC Channel_n ?
CC ?
This command sets or displays the configuration for the specified

channel. The channel number is used in defining the required parameters
for a particular channel. Access to a given channel is provided via the
format definition (FD) command and the format select (FS) commands.
A channel configuration and format definition must be successfully
defined before the ABR200 can receive an audio. Table 5-19 lists the
parameters and a description of each.
Table 5-19. Parameter Descriptions

Parameter Description
Channel_n Channel number to be configured. Valid channel
numbers are 0 through 31. This value must correspond to
the channel identifier (CI) programmed into the
encoder/mux at the uplink.
RF_nnnn Specifies the RF input frequency to be received by the
ODU LNB. The range of valid receive frequencies are:
• C-band 3.7 to 4.2 GHz
• Ku-band 10.95 to 11.699 GHz, 11.7 to 12.2 GHz, and
12.25 to 12.75 GHz
All values are entered in increments of 1000 Hz (1 kHz).
For:
• Ku-band: 8 digits for nnnn
• C-band: 7 digits for nnnn
RR_nnnn Specifies the receive symbol rate (symbol/sec). Valid
symbol rates are: 128000, 192000, 256000, 384000,
512000 sps (ABR200-1) and 64000, 128000, 192000,
256000, 512000 (ABR200-2).
RM_n Specifies the receive modulation type.
0 = BPSK, 1 = QPSK
Example:
The following command configures channel 1 for a Ku frequency of

11,700,000 kHz, 256000 symbol rate, and QPSK operation.
CC 1,11700000,256000,1
5-18 Rev. F 08/95

The ZAP parameter clears the RF, RR, and RM parameters for the
specified channel. If this parameter is used, the channel is no longer
defined.
To display the parameters associated with a given channel number, use

the syntax CC channel_number ?.
To display the channel configuration of all defined channels, use the

syntax CC ?, or just CC. After a master reset of the ABR200, there are
no values assigned to any of the CC parameters.

Syntax: CE ?
CE
The response to this query-only command provides the current,

calculated channel error rate. The value is coded such that 65 = 6x10-5.
The lowest channel error rate displayed is 09 (0x10-9).
NOTE: This command is not provided in the 1.38 or higher software

version.

Syntax: CF nn
This command clears active faults and permits remonitoring of those

faults. Once a fault is set, no further occurrences of the fault can be
monitored until the fault is reset.
All faults are set on power-up and, therefore, must be cleared by the user
before fault alarm messages will be sent to the diagnostic port.
Parameter values for nn are integers in the range of 0 to 30, inclusive.

CF 0 clears all active faults. Other values for nn correspond to the bit
number of a fault as defined in the fault register.
The FL and ST command descriptions contain a complete list of all fault

code bit numbers.
Rev. F 08/95 5-19


Syntax: CM channel_n,r1,r2,r3,r4,r5,r6,r7,r8
CM channel_n ?
This command allows the receiver to be configured to provide a

mapping of relay contacts at the uplink to relay contacts at the receiver.
A contact map is maintained for each channel number and is recalled
whenever channel changes are made via the FS command. Values for the
channel number range from 0 to 31, inclusive.
The eight parameters r1 through r8 correspond to the eight receiver

relays. The r1 parameter corresponds to the mapping for receiver
relay 1, the r8 corresponds to mapping for receiver relay 8. The value of
r1 through r8 represents the relay input at the uplink that is physically
assigned to operate the designated receiver relay. Acceptable values for
r1 through r8 are 1 to 16, inclusive, where 1 is the first uplink relay
input, 2 the second, and 16 the most significant relay input. The default
mapping for CM is 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 for all formats.
Example:
CM 3,3,2,1,4,5,6,10,7 will perform the relay mapping shown in

Table 5-20 when channel 3 is selected via the FS command.
Table 5-20. Example Relay Mapping

Uplink Relay Receiver
Input Relay
3 1
2 2
1 3
4 4
5 5
6 6
10 7
7 8
5-20 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: CO string
CO ?
This command allows the receiver relays to be temporarily activated/

deactivated for test purposes. The string in the command line is an
8-byte character string that controls the state of each relay. The first
character controls relay number 1, the second controls relay number 2,
and so on. Valid characters in the string are shown in Table 5-21.
Table 5-21. Valid String Characters and Descriptions

Character Description
0 Deactivates a relay
1 Activates a relay
X Relay action based on uplink
relay input
The default setting is CO XXXXXXXX.
Example:
The following command activates relay contacts 1, 4, and 5 while

not changing the other contacts.
CO 1XX11XXX
NOTE: Ensure that settings are returned to X so relay closures are

controlled from the uplink. If this does not occur, the relay
closures will remain in the state specified by the CO
command.

Syntax: CQ ?
This command queries the receiver for the physical state of the relay
contact closures. The value returned is an eight-character value, each
character representing the status of an individual relay. A 0 for a relay
indicates the relay is open, a 1 indicates the relay is closed. The first
character corresponds to receiver relay contact 1, the last character
corresponds to relay 8.
Rev. F 08/95 5-21


Syntax: CS string
CS ?
This command controls the normal (deactivated) position for the control
relays. The string is a character string, with each character position
controlling the normal state of a single relay. The first character position
controls relay 1, the last character controls relay 8. A 1 for an individual
character indicates the relay is normally closed and that the relay is
activated by opening it. A 0 for an individual character indicates the
relay is normally open and that the relay is activated by closing it.
The default value for CS is 00000000 (all normally open).
DC Display Configuration of Receiver

Syntax: DC ?
DC
This command displays a summary output of the present control

software and symbol rate configuration of the receiver. Two possible
displays that may appear, depending on ABR200 type, are -1 or -2, as
Table 5-22. ABR200 Type and the Possible Display

ABR200 Type Possible Display
ABR200-1 ComStream Digital Audio Broadcast Receiver
Software Version [xxxxx, 1.38]
QPSK rates: 96, 112, 128, 192, 256, 384 kbps
BPSK rates: 64, 96, 128, 192, 256 kbps
ABR200-2 ComStream Digital Audio Broadcast Receiver
Software Version [xxxxx, 1.38]
QPSK rates: 64, 96, 112, 128, 192, 256, 384 kbps
BPSK rates: 64, 96, 128, 192, 256 kbps
NOTE: The left-most version number represents the satellite-

downloaded software version number. For units not
downloaded, the place holder xxxxx is displayed.
5-22 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: DE n
DE ?
This command enables/disables the composite baseband data to be

output on the auxiliary port connector. The composite data is the
encoded ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA data stream.
The interface operates synchronously with the data valid on the falling
edge of the clock. RS-422 electrical levels are used for this interface.
The pinouts for this interface appear in Appendix A: Interface Pinouts.
A value of 0 disables the output of the composite baseband data,

whereas a 1 enables this data. The default value for DE is 1. Figure 5-1
is a pictorial representation of this command.
Figure 5-1. ABR Block Diagram Showing DE Commands
Rev. F 08/95 5-23

DM Display Message
Syntax: DM Pn,string
This command provides a means of sending an ASCII character string to

the designated output port. Valid range for the port number (n) is P1
(data port) or P2 (M&C port). The string terminates with a carriage
return, which executes the command and is not part of the string.
A vertical bar character ( | ) can be used to force the output of a carriage

return to the port.

Syntax: DP ?
DP
This command requests a summary output of all command parameters

that are single valued. Commands that have multiple parameter sets,
such as FD (format definition) and CM (relay contact mapping), are not
displayed. This command does not require a parameter and is equivalent
to issuing a query for every available command.
DQ Data Rate Query

Syntax: DQ ?
This command queries the receiver for the current channel data rate. The
value returned is the data rate in bits per second.

Syntax: DX n
DX ?
This command selects the input source for the audio decoder on the
ABR200. A value of 0 for n instructs the receiver to use the output of the
L-band demodulator as the input to the audio decoder, whereas a 1 or 2
instructs the receiver to use the external data input on the auxiliary port
(pins 6,7,13,14) as the input to the audio decoder.
The interface operates at the RS-422 electrical levels and requires the
data to be valid on the falling edge of the clock. When the DX command
is set to 1, it will be overridden during carrier acquisition to ensure that
the input to the audio decoder is from the L-band demodulator. This
allows the receiver to monitor the incoming composite data stream for
the proper network/channel ID that it needs to achieve RF and audio
sync. Once RF and audio sync have been achieved, the DX command
returns to the state it was in prior to the start of carrier acquisition. If DX
is set to 2, the receiver disables all carrier acquisition processes and will
not switch the input to the audio decoder from the auxiliary port under
any circumstance. Refer to Figure 5-1 for a pictorial representation of
this command.
5-24 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: EB ?
EB
This command queries the receiver for the present energy per bit with
respect to noise (Eb/No) in a 1 Hz bandwidth on the channel.
An estimate of the Eb/No is returned in the range of 3 dB to 20 dB for

rate 1/2 coding. The Eb/No value is in 0.1 dB steps with an accuracy of
±0.5 dB in the range between 4.0 and 10 dB. This value is valid
approximately 20 seconds after ABR200 acquisition and is updated
every five seconds.
The Eb/No value can be used to initiate several receiver functions, such
as muting audio (see M0 and M1 commands), activating the Eb/No
threshold (ET) alarm, and setting the condition of the front panel signal
indicator (Q0 and Q1).

Syntax: EE n
EE ?
This command specifies whether characters input to the M&C port on

the ABR200 are echoed at the M&C port output. Echoing sends back
each character received so that it appears on the display of the M&C
port CRT terminal. A value of 0 disables the echo. A value of 1, which is
the default, enables the echo.

Syntax: EM 0
EM ?
This command queries the receiver for the minimum Eb/No value that
was measured since the last time the minimum value was reset.
EM 0 resets the minimum value of Eb/No to the highest possible Eb/No

value. The minimum value is not affected if the receiver loses lock. The
default value is 20.
Rev. F 08/95 5-25


Syntax: EN n
EN ?
The EN command is used to select the type of data to be output on the

auxiliary data pins of the RS-232 user data port (pins 14 and 16).
A value of 0 disables the output of network ID data. The default value

for EN is 0.
A value of 1 for n enables the output of the network ID information. The

network ID information is generated at the uplink multiplexer and
contains network ID, channel ID, and relay control information. This
network ID information is used to support an external relay control unit
(RCU). The RCU-16 provides up to 16 relay contact closures. The
output of the network data is also conditioned on the unit authorization
(UA command) of the receiver as specified in the FD command. If the
receiver is not authorized to receive relay information, the network ID
data output is disabled regardless of the state of the EN command.
A value of 2 for n instructs the receiver to output the user data on the
auxiliary port pins instead of the user data pins. This provides the user
with the option of utilizing the auxiliary data’s RS-422 electrical
interface option for the user data output. For information on switching
between the RS-232 and RS-422 drivers for the auxiliary data output,
refer to the S1 command of this appendix.
A value of 3 for n enables the output of the user-defined data block. This
user-defined data block is a generic block type that is made available to
the user for user-specific needs. This data block is generated by the user
and is input at the uplink multiplexer by a user-supplied DTE. This data
block must follow the ComStream Block Transfer Protocol. The receiver
outputs the entire data block to a user-supplied DTE at the remote site.

Syntax: ET n.m
ET ?
This command configures the receiver for a minimum Eb/No threshold.

An Eb/No threshold error is generated whenever the value of Eb/No is
strictly less than the ET value. The format for the number is n.m, where
0 < n <= 20 and 0 </= m </= 9. The default value is 3.5.
5-26 Rev. F 08/95

EX Maximum Eb/No
Syntax: EX 0
EX ?
This command queries the receiver for the maximum Eb/No value
recorded since the last maximum value was reset. The format of the
command is EX 0, which resets the maximum value of Eb/No to the
lowest possible Eb/No value.
F1 Fault Mask 1 (v1.37+)

Syntax: F1 nnn
F1 ?
The F1 command specifies the faults that will trigger a backlink attempt
to the user-defined number specified in T1.
The value of nnn is a decimal number that represents the bit map of the
faults to be monitored by the terrestrial backlink (TB).
For example:
To select faults 6, 7, and 8, the user enters 224 (32 + 64 + 128 =

224) as the value for n.
(For a listing of the fault monitors and their decimal weightings,

refer to the fault query [FL] command in this chapter.)
The TB compares the faults specified in this command with the value of
the receiver’s current fault history (FL command). If any of the faults
that are specified in F1 are also a member of the receiver’s fault history,
a backlink is attempted using the number specified in T1. The default
value for this command is 0.
Rev. F 08/95 5-27

F2 Fault Mask 2 (v1.37+)

Syntax: F2 nnn
F2 ?
The fault mask 2 command specifies the faults that will trigger a
backlink attempt to the user-defined number specified in T2.
faults to be monitored by the terrestrial backlink.
For example:


refer to the fault query [FL] command in this chapter.)
Syntax: FD format_nn,network_ID_nnn,channel_nn,unit_
authorization_n,LR_value,MU_value
FD format_nn,ZAP
FD format_nn ?
FD format_nn
FD ?
FD
This command configures the specified format number for a particular

network, RF channel, and unit authorization value. Valid values for
format numbers are 0 to 63. Valid network values are 0 to 255. Note that
the network ID and channel ID within the format definition must match
the configuration of the uplink DAC. Channel_nn corresponds to the
channel number as defined by the CC command. The valid range is 0 to
31.
5-28 Rev. F 08/95

The unit authorization (UA) selects what services are output from the
receiver: audio, data, and relay contact closures. The authorization bit
map is shown in Table 5-23, and the UA value and active ports are
Table 5-23. Authorization Bit Map

Bit Position Authorization
Bit 0 0—audio disable, 1—audio enable
Bit 1 0—user data disable, 1—user data enable
Bit 2 0—relay port disable, 1—relay port enable
Table 5-24. UA Value and Active Ports

UA Value Active Ports
0 None
1 Audio only
2 User data only
3 Audio and user data
4 Relay port only
5 Audio and relay port
6 Data and relay port
7 Audio, data, and relay port
Example:
To define format 6 to be assigned to network 1, RF channel 3, with

authorization to receive audio and relay closures (UA Value 5 of
Table 5-24), the following parameters are used:
FD 6,1,3,5
The left/right channel toggle (LR) and audio mute (MU) values are
optional values. If no values are entered for these parameters when
entering the FD command, then the LR (left/right toggle command) and
MU (mute command) values are not modified when this format is
selected via the FS command. If these values are entered, then the LR
and MU values are modified when this format is selected using the FS
command. Refer to the LR and MU command sections in this chapter for
acceptable values or more information.
NOTE: The LR and MU commands are only present for the FD

command in the version 1.38 software.
Rev. F 08/95 5-29

If the ABR indicates that an error is made in parameter entry, retype the
command with the correct parameters.
To display all active format definitions, use the FD command followed

by a carriage return. To delete a format definition, the parameter value
ZAP is used. Once a format is defined, the configuration is made
operational via the format select (FS) command. The RF channel that is
used, along with the associated receiver parameters, are specified by the
channel number within the format definition. The default value is not
defined.
FL Fault Query
Syntax: FL ?
FL
FL 0
This command queries the receiver for the fault history of the receiver.
Fault codes (numbers) and response values are retained in a fault register
until the faults are cleared using the CF command. Each bit and
associated fault weight are assigned to a particular fault indication. The
fault/status map is shown in Table 5-25. The bits in the fault register are
identical to those in the status register. (For more information, refer to
the ST command section in this chapter.) If the hex mode (HM) is
enabled (1), then the output is displayed in the hexadecimal format given
in Table 5-25, with all bits displayed that are set.
If the hex mode is disabled (default), then the output valued is the
summation of all set fault bits.
For example, if faults 17 and 18 are active, the returned value for the
FL ? command is 196608 (decimal) or 0x00030000 (hex).
If the command format FL 0 is used, then each fault number is

displayed, one per display line. Thus, for the above example, an FL 0
results in:
FL 17
FL 18
A detailed description of what each fault means is provided in

Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting.
5-30 Rev. F 08/95

Table 5-25. Fault Summary

Fault Fault Hex Decimal
Number Description Weight Weight
1 Not used 0x00000001 1
2 Not used 0x00000002 2
3 Not used 0x00000004 4
4 Not used 0x00000008 8
5 AGC Range Fault 0x00000010 16
6 Bit Time Lock Fault 0x00000020 32
7 Carrier Tracking Lock Fault 0x00000040 64
8 FEC Decoder Sync Fault 0x00000080 128
9 Acquisition Range Fault 0x00000100 256
10 Carrier Tracking Range Fault 0x00000200 512
11 Not used 0x00000400 1024
12 Bit Time Range Fault 0x00000800 2048
13 Nonvolatile Memory Fault 0x00001000 4096
14 Carrier Tracking DDS Fault 0x00002000 8192
15 Bit Time DDS Fault 0x00004000 16384
16 Watchdog Timer Fault 0x00008000 32768
17 Audio PLL Lock Fault 0x00010000 65536
18 Audio Decoder Sync Fault 0x00020000 131072
19 DSP Watchdog Fault 0x00040000 262144
20 DSP Bit Failure 0x00080000 524288
21 Sensor Input 4—External Alarm Monitoring 0x00100000 1048576
24 Outdoor Unit Fault 0x00800000 8388608
25 Eb/No Threshold Fault 0x01000000 16777216
26 Not used 0x02000000 33554432
27 EPROM Checksum Fault 0x04000000 67108864
28 S/W Download Failure 0x08000000 134217728
29 Channel Change Fault 0x10000000 268435456
30 Network ID Timeout Fault 0x20000000 536870912
31 Acquisition Network ID Fault 0x40000000 1073741824
Rev. F 08/95 5-31

FS Format Select
Syntax: FS format_nn
FS ?
This command configures the receiver to the parameters specified in the

format definition that corresponds to the format number. Valid values
for format numbers are 0 to 63. An FS ? returns the format in operation.
For example, assume the current format is 1. An FS command would
return FS 1. To change to format 2, enter FS 2. The default value is not
defined. Different authorizations can be created using the same channel
number and switch between the authorizations without the momentary
interruption of audio.
HM Hex Mode
Syntax: HM n
HM ?
HM
This command assigns the display format for the ST and FL commands
to be decimal or hexadecimal. Valid values for n are 0, hex mode
disabled (display decimal format), or 1, hex mode enabled. A query
displays the current format. This value is not stored in nonvolatile
memory and defaults to 0 on power-up or upon login.
Syntax: ID ?
This command displays the ABR200 ID serial number, which is used for
individual unit addressing. The number should be identical to the unit
serial number as displayed on the label at the rear of the chassis.

Syntax: LA nn,address_nnnnn
LA ?
LA
This command allows the receiver to respond to logical addresses that

are received over the network control channel. Up to 32 logical
addresses can be assigned to each receiver. The valid range for
address_nnnnn is 1 to 16383. Specifying a parameter of 0 for the address
has the effect of clearing the logical address assignment. The receiver
responds to all logical addresses assigned and its unique physical
address (unit ID). The default value is No Logical Addresses Assigned.
5-32 Rev. F 08/95

Example:
The following command configures logical address 3 to 9312. The

remote receiver will then act upon network control messages
addressed to unit 9312.
LA 3,9312

Syntax: LC n
LC ?
This command allows the receiver channel to be configured via the three
external TTL inputs. This command works in conjunction with the
preset definition (PD) command.
A value of 1 enables the receiver to enact format changes via the

external TTL inputs. A 0 disables this feature. The default value is 0.
Syntax: LO ?
LO
The LO value represents the difference between the start acquisition

frequency and the frequency where the carrier was actually located. The
LO value represents the sum of the offsets that are present at the receive
site. These offsets include the offset present in the LO of the LNB and
the LO of the receiver. With a knowledge of the actual offsets present at
the receive site, the ABR200 can optimize its acquisition process. When
performing a channel change acquisition, the receiver uses the offset
specified in the LO value to calculate the frequency at which it will start
its search for the new RF carrier.

Syntax: LR n
LR ?
The LR command configures the receiver so that the receiver directs the:
• Incoming left audio channel to both the left and right audio output
channels
or
• Incoming right audio channel to both the left and right audio output
channels
Rev. F 08/95 5-33

The value for n determines the output of the left and right audio
channels. The default value for LR is 0. Table 5-26 provides the valid
values for n.
Table 5-26. Valid Values for the LR Command

n Audio Output Status
0 Normal output. Left input goes out on the left channel,
and the right input goes out on the right channel.
1 Reversed output. Left input goes out on the right
channel, and the right input goes out on the left
channel.
2 Left input goes out on both the right and left channels.
3 Right input goes out on both the left and right
channels.
NOTE: To utilize 2 and 3 of Table 5-26, the receiver must have v1.16
or higher of ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA decoder software
installed (CPN 08-1095-116).
LT LNB Type (v1.37+)

Syntax: LT n
LT ?
The LNB-type command allows the user to select a mode in which the
receiver automatically selects the LNB type.
The selection of the proper LNB type modifies receiver parameters that
are needed to perform carrier tracking properly. The two types of LNBs
that are used at the remote site system are DRO and PLL. A value of 0
for n configures the receiver for a DRO-type LNB, whereas a value of 1
for n configures the receiver for a PLL-type LNB.
A value of 2 for n instructs the receiver to automatically select the type

of LNB. The receiver uses the current modulation type, as specified in
the CC command, to determine for which LNB type to configure. If the
current modulation type is BPSK, the receiver configures for a
DRO-type LNB, whereas if the modulation type is QPSK, the receiver
configures for a PLL-type LNB. The receiver automatically selects the
LNB type prior to every RF acquisition attempted.
5-34 Rev. F 08/95

M0 Eb/No Mute On
Syntax: M0 n.n
M0 ?
This command allows for muting the output audio based on the received
signal strength, Eb/No. It is used in conjunction with the M1, which
enables the output audio. The audio is muted when the Eb/No value is at
or below the specified Eb/No value. The default value for M0 is 4.0.
Valid range is 0.1 to < M1 value.
M1 Eb/No Mute Off

Syntax: M1 n.n
M1 ?
This command allows for unmuting the output audio based on the
received signal strength, Eb/No. It is used in conjunction with the M0,
which mutes the output audio. The audio is unmuted when the Eb/No
value is at or above the specified Eb/No value. The default value for M1
is 4.5. Valid range is > M0 to 20.0.
MR Master Reset
Syntax: MR n
MR ?
The value of n determines the type of reinitialization that will occur. A

value of 0 reinitializes the receiver for a DRO LNB, whereas a value of
1 instructs the receiver to reinitialize for a PLL LNB. As a safety
feature, two identical MR commands must be issued within 10 seconds
of each other before the receiver begins to reinitialize its parameters.
NOTE: This command initializes all ABR200 parameters to their

factory default settings. All user-specific configuration
information (i.e., FD, CC) are lost. For the receiver to achieve
RF and audio sync, this user-specific information must be
re-entered.
Rev. F 08/95 5-35

MU Audio Mute
Syntax: MU n
MU ?
The audio mute command now includes independent muting (disabling)

of left and right audio channels.
The value for n determines the mute condition of the receiver. The
default value for MU is 0. Valid values for n are listed in Table 5-27.
Table 5-27. Valid Values for the MU Command

n Mute Condition
0 Both the left and right channels are enabled
1 Both the left and right channels are muted
2 The left channel is muted
3 The right channel is muted
NOTE: To utilize 2 and 3 in Table 5-27, the receiver must have v1.16

Syntax: NF ?
NF
NF 0
This command displays the number of RF signal fades since the counter
was last cleared. Channel changes do not increment this counter. NF 0
resets the counter.
NS Network Status
Syntax: NS ?
NS
This command displays the current network parameters received over

the control channel. The network ID number, the channel ID number,
and the relay contact closure status are displayed.
5-36 Rev. F 08/95

OM ODU Fault Mask

Syntax: OM n
OM ?
OM
This command controls the operation of the front panel ODU Fault
indicator. A 1 enables the ODU Fault indicator; 0 disables the ODU
Fault indicator; the default value is 1. This command is typically used
(i.e., OM 0) when the RF input is connected to another ABR so that the
second ABR’s +18 V output is not used. This configuration normally
causes an ODU fault since no current is drawn by the RF output of the
first ABR.

Syntax: P1 baud,parity,data bits,stop bits
P1 ?
P1
This command configures the user data port for the specified operating
parameters. Valid values for these parameters are shown in Table 5-28.
Table 5-28. Valid Parameter Values for the P1 Command

Parameter Valid Values
Baud 0,300,1200,2400,4800,9600
Parity O (odd), N (none), or E (even)
Data bits 7 or 8
Stop bits 1 or 2
A 0 for the baud rate parameter disables the user data port independent
of the unit authorization. The default value is 2400,O,7,1.
the ABR200 data port configured for 1 stop bit. Refer to the
DAC400 Installation and Operation Guide for data channel
configuration information.
Rev. F 08/95 5-37


P2 ?
This command configures the diagnostic port for the specified

parameters. Valid values for these parameters are shown in Table 5-29.

Baud 0,300,1200,2400,4800,9600
Data bits 7 or 8
Stop bits 1 or 2
The default value is 2400,O,7,1.

P3 ?
This command configures the printer data port for the specified
parameters. This function is implemented on the user data port. For
information on the pinouts used, refer to Appendix A: Interface Pinouts.
Valid values for the P3 parameters are shown in Table 5-30.

Baud 0,300,1200,2400,4800,9600
Data bits 7 or 8
Stop bits 1 or 2
The default value is 2400,O,7,1.
5-38 Rev. F 08/95

PA Packet Address
Syntax: PA n
PA ?
This command is used to set the packet address of the receiver. The
packet address is the external device address to which the receiver
responds when attached to an RS-485 multidrop bus. Using a terminal
program that supports ComStream packet protocol, each receiver on the
bus can receive commands that are specifically addressed to that
receiver, addressed to a group of receivers (of which the receiver is a
member), or addressed to all receivers.
Valid values for n are 1 to 31 and the default value is 31.
PC Password Change
Syntax: PC current password,new password,new password
This command allows the user to change the password of the receiver. A
password must be between five and 10 alphanumeric characters.
Example:
To change the default password, HOMEYD, to the new password,

ABC123, the user enters the following:
PC HOMEYD, ABC123, ABC123
Syntax: PD preset_n,format_n
PD preset_n ?
PD
This command allows the receiver to be configured for seven format

presets. The presets are used in conjunction with the receiver’s external
status inputs in selecting formats. The LC command enables or disables
the ability of the receiver to change formats via presets.
The valid range for preset_n is 0 to 7, and the valid range for format_n is
0 to 63. A value of 0 for the format indicates there is no assigned format
for a given preset. By using the external TTL inputs, the user can select
the desired preset. SI3 through SI1 have internal 4.7 K pull-up resistors.
A dry closure to ground (pin 1) creates a logical address of 0, and a 1
represents an open circuit (no connection).
Rev. F 08/95 5-39

The mapping for the TTL inputs to a particular preset setting is shown in
Table 5-31.
Table 5-31. TTL Input Mapping

TTL Inputs Preset
SI3 SI2 SI1 Number
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 2
0 1 1 3
1 0 0 4
1 0 1 5
1 1 0 6
1 1 1 7
PO Packet-Only (v1.37+)
Syntax: PO n
PO ?
The packet-only command is used to place the receiver in a mode so that

the receiver will only accept commands from the M&C port that are
formatted in the ComStream packet protocol format. ComStream packet
protocol contains addressing information that allows the ABR200 to be
placed on a 485 multidrop bus. When on a multidrop bus, it is
recommended that the receiver be placed in packet-only mode to
eliminate the possibility of the receiver responding to a command that
was not addressed to it.
A value of 1 for n directs the receiver to accept packet commands. A

value of 0 for n instructs the receiver to accept packet, as well as
nonpacket, formatted commands. The default is 0.
5-40 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: Q0 n.n
Q0 ?
Q0
This command sets or reads the lower limit signal strength threshold.
The receiver uses the values set in Q0 and Q1 to report the current status
of the signal strength via the front panel Signal indicator. The receiver
compares the present value of the measured Eb/No with the user values
of Q0 and Q1. The receiver displays the signal strength via the front
panel Signal indicator, as shown in Table 5-32.
Table 5-32. Signal Strength and Signal LED indication

Signal Signal LED
Strength Indication
Eb > Q1 On
Q0 < Eb < Q1 Blinking
Eb < Q0 Off
The default value for Q0 is 4.0 dB.

Syntax: Q1 n.n
Q1 ?
Q1
This command sets or reads the upper limit signal strength threshold.
The receiver uses the values set in Q0 and Q1 to report the current status
of the signal strength via the front panel Signal indicator.
The default value for Q1 is 7.0 dB.
RB Read Calculated Bit Error Rate

Syntax: RB ?
RB
The response to this query displays the decoder estimated output bit
error rate. The format for the bit error rate is n.n. The first number is the
mantissa of the bit error rate threshold, and the second number
represents the negative of the exponent (i.e., 26 represents 2 x 10-6, or
.000002).
NOTE: This command is not provided in the 1.38 or higher software

version.
Rev. F 08/95 5-41

RE System Reset
Syntax: RE
The RE command resets the unit to a known state as defined by the

stored parameters in nonvolatile memory. This command does not reset
the unit to the factory default settings.
RF Read RF Value
Syntax: RF ?
RF
The RF command is used to query the C- or Ku-band frequency to be

received at the input of the ODU LNB. The range of downlink
frequencies received by the ABR200 are 3.7 to 4.2 GHz, 10.95 to
11.699 GHz, 11.7 to 12.2 GHz, and 12.25 to 12.75 GHz. The RF
frequency is set via the CC command and selected via the FS command.
S1 Interface Select for Auxiliary Data (v1.37+)

Syntax: S1 n
S1 ?
The S1 command selects the electrical interface for the auxiliary data.
A value of 0 for n selects the RS-232 electrical interface, whereas a

value of 1 for n selects the RS-422 electrical interface.
S2 Monitor and Control Interface Select (v1.37+)

Syntax: S2 n
S2 ?
The S2 command is used to select the electrical interface for the M&C
port.
A value of 0 for n selects RS-232 electrical interface for the M&C port,
whereas a value of 1 selects the RS-422 electrical interface. The M&C
interface can be reset back to RS-232 by using the MCRESET pin
(Relay Control port, pin 12). If the MCRESET pin is held at a ground
state during power-up initialization, the M&C port resets to the default
parameters of 2400,O,7,1, RS-232 electrical interface.
The factory initialized value for S2 is 0.

Syntax: SI ?
This command queries the receiver for the status of the seven TTL
inputs. The reported value is a seven-character string, each character
representing the status of an input line. The first character corresponds to
the TTL input #1, the last character corresponds to TTL input #7.
5-42 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: SL 0
SL ?
This command allows the receiver to maintain a record of the number of

audio sync losses since the last time the value was reset. The sync loss
count will not exceed 65535. SL 0 resets the sync loss value.

Syntax: SR nnnn
SR ?
SR
This command sets or reads the status relay mask. The value nnnn is a
decimal number that represents the bit map of the faults to be monitored
by the status relay. For example, to set faults 6, 7, and 8, you would
input 224 (32+64+128) as the value of nnnn. (For a listing of fault
monitors and their decimal weighting, refer to the FL command.)
The default value is 4286578687, which enables all faults but FL 24

(ODU fault) to activate the relay and front panel IDU Fault indicator.

Syntax: SS n
SS ?
This command configures the remote status relay sense. A value of 0 for
n configures the relay as true sense (i.e., when there is no alarm, the
relay is active). A value of 1 configures the relay to be inverted when
there is no alarm condition.
Example:
Table 5-33 shows the status relay contact states for the individual
conditions.
Table 5-33. Condition and Status Relay Contacts
Condition Status Relay Contacts

(SS=0) (SS=1)
Power Off open open
Alarm open closed
Normal closed open
The default value is 0 (true sense).
Rev. F 08/95 5-43

ST Status Query
Syntax: ST ?
ST
This command causes the receiver to display the current content of the
status register. The FL ? command gives the faults that have occurred
since the last time the fault register was cleared. The ST ? command
gives the current condition of those fault monitors. Bits in the status
register are defined exactly as the fault register. The ST command will
display a decimal or hexadecimal encoded value of the bits in the status
register depending on the HM command value.
T1 Backlink Telephone Number 1 (v1.37+)

Syntax: T1 string
T1 ?
The T1 command specifies the telephone number the receiver uses in a

backlink attempt initiated by a fault that is a member of fault mask 1 (F1
command).
String is a character string that contains the telephone number and any
subcommands for the ComStream-approved, Hayes-compatible
telephone modem (CPN 30-0120-194). When initiating a backlink, the
receiver sends ATD followed immediately by the string entered by the
user. The following is a list of valid characters that can be entered:
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• * (asterisk)
• # (number/pound symbol)
• @ (at symbol)
• ! (exclamation mark)
• ; (semicolon)
• , (comma)
The following is an example of the T1 command:
T1 9,5553333
5-44 Rev. F 08/95

T2 Backlink Telephone Number 2 (v1.37+)

Syntax: T2 string
T2 ?
The T2 command is used to specify the telephone number the receiver

uses in a backlink attempt initiated by a fault that is a member of fault
mask 2 (F2 command).
subcommands for the ComStream-approved, Hayes-compatible
telephone modem (CPN 30-0120-194). When initiating a backlink, the
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• * (asterisk)
• @ (at symbol)
• ; (semicolon)
• , (comma)
TB Terrestrial Backlink (v1.37+)

Syntax: TB n
TB ?
The TB command allows the user to manually initiate a terrestrial

backlink or terminate a backlink that is in progress.
A value of 1 for n instructs the receiver to establish a link using the

telephone number defined by the T1 command. Likewise, a value of 2
for n instructs the receiver to establish a backlink using the phone
number defined by the T2 command. A value of 0 for n instructs the
receiver to terminate any active backlinks.
Rev. F 08/95 5-45

Syntax: TI string
TB ?
This command allows the user to enter a specific initialization string for
the telco modem. This string is sent to the telco modem prior to every
backlink attempt. When a backlink is attempted, the ABR200 sends a
basic initialization string followed immediately by the user-defined
initialization string. The following sequence of strings is sent prior to
every backlink attempt:
AT&D3&C1S0=1E0Q0V1&Y0
AT user-defined string
The user-defined string can be a maximum of 40 characters. The valid

characters that can be sent are:
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• &
• =
The default string for TI is &Q5W0&Y0.

Syntax: X1 value
This command allows the user data port to be exercised by providing a

repeating test pattern. A value of 1 enables the user data port test. A
value of 0 disables the test. The test pattern that will be issued to the port
is:
0123456789
The default value is 0.

Syntax: X2 value
This command allows the M&C port to be exercised by providing a

repeating test pattern. A value of 1 enables the M&C port test. A value
of 0 disables the test. The test pattern that will be issued to the port is:
0123456789
The default value is 0.
5-46 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This chapter provides information about the maintenance of the
ABR200. It also provides an alphabetical listing of key performance
monitoring commands and the fault conditions that can occur with the
ABR200. These listings also provide a detailed description of each
command and fault condition.
The last section of this chapter presents information that can help
troubleshoot any problems that can occur with the ABR200.
Maintenance
The ABR200 does not require periodic or preventive maintenance. There
are no adjustments or configuration switches or jumpers external or
internal to the unit.
The power input is protected with an inline fuse located within the
power supply inside the receiver. The fuse is designed to protect the unit
from internal damage in the event of a severe power line condition or
internal failure. This fuse is not serviceable by the user.
A lithium battery is used to power the nonvolatile memory while power

is off. The lifetime of the battery is 10 years.
Performance Monitoring
The ABR200 receiver has a number of commands that provide
performance monitoring of key system parameters. By interrogating
these parameters for key receiver sites on a periodic basis, the overall
system performance level can be determined and changed if necessary.
In implementing performance monitoring, key downlink sites would be

selected. At these sites, telephone modems would be connected to the
ABR200 receiver so that the required two-way communication link is
established. For connecting a telephone modem to the receiver, refer to
Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation.
The key performance monitoring commands and how they can be used
in measuring symptom performance are detailed in the following
paragraphs.
Rev. F 08/95 6-1

Maintenance And Troubleshooting ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
The minimum receive signal level Eb/No is measured and recorded

using the EM command. This parameter indicates how weak the receive
signal has become due to local weather conditions and fades, antenna
misalignment, etc., since the last time the parameter was reset. By
monitoring key receive sites across the network, a determination of
actual system availability can be made based on measured fades. If
actual numbers differ from the desired availability, corrective action can
be taken. Either the satellite downlink power can be increased or the
receive antenna size can be increased for the affected locations.
This command records the number of RF signal fades that have occurred
since the last time the counter was reset. While the EM command
records the lowest signal level, this command records the number of
signal fade events. A fade event occurs when the receiver loses RF
signal lock for any reason other than channel changes. A fade causes a
disruption in audio, data, and relay cue signals. Typically, a fade occurs
due to weather conditions, although any event causing the signal to be
temporarily interrupted could be the cause. Examples of this would be
antenna obstruction by a large truck, IFL cable damage causing
intermittent connections, and so on.
Receiver sites that record fade events should be investigated to

determine the cause so that uninterrupted service can be provided.
This command records the number of audio decoder sync losses since it
was last reset. An audio sync loss would normally occur when a fade
condition exists. However, there could be instances where the decoder
loses synchronization with the uplink audio encoder. Very low signal
levels (between 3.0 to 3.5 dB Eb/No) could cause sufficiently high bit
error rates causing the decoder to lose sync, but not an RF sync loss.
Additionally, if the uplink encoder began to operate marginally, then
typically all receive sites would record decoder sync loss events,
although not all may record the same number of events.
By monitoring audio sync losses, troubleshooting system-wide or

individual receive site problems is made easier.
6-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Maintenance And Troubleshooting
Fault Condition Descriptions

This section provides a detailed description of each fault condition to aid
in troubleshooting.
FL 5 - AGC Range Fault
This fault indicates the input signal to the demodulator is less than
-75 dBm or greater than -30 dBm (approximately).
FL 6 - Bit Time Lock Fault
An FL 6 fault means the demodulator bit time loop has lost lock. The
receiver output data is disabled when this fault occurs.
FL 7 - Carrier Tracking Lock Fault
This fault means the demodulator carrier tracking loop has lost lock. The
receiver output data is disabled when this fault occurs.
FL 8 - FEC Decoder Sync Fault
An FL 8 fault indicates the FEC decoder output BER is greater than 10-2
(approximately).
FL 9 - Acquisition Range Fault
This fault means the demodulator has completed a search of all

frequencies out to the limits defined by the B3 parameter and was unable
to acquire a carrier.
FL 10 - Carrier Tracking Range Fault
An FL 10 fault means the demodulator carrier tracking register has

reached its maximum (or minimum) setting.
FL12 - Bit Time Range Fault
This fault indicates the demodulator bit time accumulator has reached its
maximum (or minimum) setting.
FL 13 - Nonvolatile Memory Fault
An FL 13 fault means one of the parameters in the demodulator

nonvolatile memory may have become corrupted. If this indication
occurs repeatedly, the nonvolatile memory is defective.
FL 14 - Carrier Tracking DDS Fault
This fault is generated when any errors are detected in the carrier
tracking DDS during power-up initialization. The FL 14 fault indicates a
hardware failure with the carrier tracking ASIC (Application Specific
IC).
Rev. F 08/95 6-3

FL 15 - Bit Time DDS Fault
This fault is generated when any errors are detected in the bit time DDS
during power-up initialization. The FL 15 fault indicates a hardware
failure with the bit time ASIC.
FL 16 - Watchdog Timer Fault
This fault indication means the demodulator microprocessor fault timer

has failed to reset. FL 16 normally indicates a memory fault, meaning
the unit may be operating in an unintended manner. When this fault
occurs, the system automatically resets.
FL 17 - Audio PLL Lock Fault
This fault occurs when the narrow band phase lock loop that operates the
audio D/A converter is not locked. It is usually caused when RF sync is
not achieved. If this alarm occurs by itself and will not clear by cycling
power, the receiver should be returned for servicing.
FL 18 - Audio Decoder Sync Fault
An FL 18 fault indicates the receiver audio decoder is not in

synchronization with the audio encoder at the uplink. This condition will
normally occur if RF sync is not achieved.
FL 19 - DSP Watchdog Fault
This fault means the DSP audio decoder is not functioning normally. If
this fault persists, the unit should be returned for servicing.
FL 20 - DSP BIT Failure
This fault indicates the DSP audio decoder built-in tests did not
successfully pass during startup. If this fault persists, the unit should be
returned for servicing.
FL 21, FL 22, FL 23 - External Alarm Monitoring
All three of these faults are caused from monitoring an external device
that asserts a TTL logic low on Sensor Inputs 4, 5, and 6. (These signals
are on the relay control port pins 22, 23, and 24.)
FL 24 - Outdoor Unit Fault
This fault occurs when the LNB is not drawing power from the receiver.
If the receiver is connected to another ABR unit, this will be a normal
condition. The front panel ODU Fault light or indicator tracks this fault
condition.
6-4 Rev. F 08/95

FL 25 - Eb/No Threshold Fault
An FL 25 fault indicates the measured RF signal level (Eb/No) has

dropped below the level set by the ET command.
FL 27 - EPROM Checksum Fault
This fault means the main control processor memory has been corrupted
and is not functioning normally. If this fault persists, the unit should be
returned for servicing.
FL 28 - Software Download Failure
This fault indicates a software download was not successful. The control
processor operates from the EPROM while this fault is active. Once the
download is successful, this fault automatically clears. While this fault is
set, the IDU Fault light on the front panel blinks at a one-second rate.
FL 29 - Channel Change Fault
An FL 29 fault occurs when a channel change has been attempted but

RF and audio synchronization on the new RF carrier have not occurred
within five seconds. Acquisition reverts to the previous signal and, once
locked, normal operation is restored. The channel change may be
initiated from any one of three sources:
• Local FS command
• FS command from the uplink
• Remote (external) channel change
For more information, refer to the LC command section in

Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control Information.)
This is an abnormal condition and indicates there may be a configuration

error within the receiver, a mismatch with the actual RF carrier
parameters, or the RF carrier is not present.
FL 30 - Network ID Timeout Fault
This fault condition exists if the channel and network ID information is

not received over the control channel every 10 seconds. Typically, this
indicates a problem exists at the uplink concerning the audio
multiplexer. However, if other receivers in the network are not showing
this alarm condition, then the unit may need servicing.
Rev. F 08/95 6-5

FL 31 - Acquisition Network ID Fault
An FL 31 fault is declared when the receiver achieves RF sync but there

is an invalid or missing network/channel ID. This fault indicates that one
or more of the following conditions is true:
• The receiver FD and/or CC commands are not configured properly.
• The uplink is not transmitting or is transmitting an invalid
network/channel ID.
• There is a hardware problem with the audio decoder portion of the
ABR200.
• The receiver is locked onto an adjacent audio carrier that is within
its frequency search range, but is not the carrier specified in the
selected format definition.
Troubleshooting
This troubleshooting section is provided to aid in isolating equipment
problems and suggesting appropriate actions toward solving problems. If
a particular problem cannot be resolved after reviewing the following
material, or if a ComStream equipment failure is suspected, then seek
further assistance by contacting your ComStream distributor or uplink
provider. If equipment is purchased directly from ComStream, contact
ComStream customer service for assistance.
Before Troubleshooting
Before troubleshooting the unit, go through the following questions:
• Have there been any power or bad weather problems in the area?
Snow-filled dishes need to be manually swept out, even if they have
a Velox coating.
• Is the ABR200 mounted on a rack or is it free-standing? Is it located
in a closet? If so, is there sufficient air circulation in the closet? Is
the ABR200 near a heat-generating source? Does it exceed the
ComStream ambient temperature specifications? The receiver
requires sufficient space for proper ventilation.
• Is the receiver connected to an uninterruptible power source (UPS)?
• Was anyone recently working on the equipment or has anyone been
near the satellite dish? If so, visually check the equipment to ensure
the power has not been turned off, there are no loose cables, or any
damaged connectors.
• Is the receiver located at the uplink or is it a downlink in a network?
If it is a downlink, are other downlinks experiencing any problems?
6-6 Rev. F 08/95

Symptoms and Actions

Table 6-1 has been developed to help you diagnose and correct minor
problems in the unlikely event that you experience difficulties with your
ABR200. A quick reference troubleshooting flow chart is also provided
in Appendix H: Troubleshooting Flow Chart. If you decide to use the
flow chart and find that you need additional information, refer to the
information provided in this section.
Table 6-1. Troubleshooting Symptoms and Actions

Symptom Action
Power light is not illuminated 1. Ensure the unit is plugged into an active AC outlet and the
power cord is firmly plugged into the rear panel
receptacle.
2. Verify the AC power source is supplying 90 to 264 VAC,
47 to 63 Hz.
3. Ensure the power cord is not at fault by replacing it with a
known working cord.
4. If the problem persists, it indicates a possible internal fuse
failure—do not attempt to repair it. Contact ComStream
for technical support.
Unable to communicate with the 1. If a modem is being used, verify that the correct cable is
receiver being used and that the connections are correct. Refer to
Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation.
NOTE: The modem connection to the M&C port requires a
crossover connection.
2. Ensure the correct terminal, cable, and configuration is being
used:
a. Ensure an ASCII terminal or a PC with a terminal
emulator program, such as PROCOMM®, is being used.
b. Ensure the RS-232 cable is connected to the M&C port via
the DB-9-to-DB-25 adapter cable (CPN 30-0120-093)
supplied with the receiver. If the adapter cable is too short,
extend it with a straight-through cable.
NOTE: If a DB-9-to-DB-9 cable is being used, the pin
assignment is straight through.
c. Verify the connection between pins 2 and 3 at both ends of
the cable. Ensure pin 4, Data Terminal Ready (DTR), is an
active input (high) of the M&C port.
d. Check to see if the terminal is configured properly: full-
duplex ASCII communications at 2400 baud, 7 data bits,
odd parity, and 1 stop bit (default).
Rev. F 08/95 6-7

Table 6-1. Troubleshooting Symptoms and Actions (continued)

Symptom Action
Unable to communicate with the 3. Once the terminal has been connected and configured, press
receiver (continued) the Enter key to see if the login message displays.
If the login message:
• Does not display, contact ComStream.
• Displays, enter commands to see if the responses are
displayed. If the commands are not echoed to the display,
ensure the command echo is enabled by entering EE 1. If
they do not display after enabling the echo feature, contact
ComStream for technical support.
ODU Fault light is illuminated This indicates the LNB downconverter (located at the antenna)
is not drawing power from the receiver.
If the receivers are daisy-chained receivers, the illuminated
ODU Fault light is normal for the receivers that are not directly
connected to the LNB downconverter. The ODU Fault light
can be turned off using the OM command.
1. Verify the IFL cable is connected to the LNB downconverter
and the RF In port at the receiver.
2. Verify cable connectivity between the two cable ends. Use a
multimeter to ohm-out after disconnecting the cable.
Examine the connectors for improper assembly.
3. Ensure the voltage output of the ABR is 18 VDC.
• If it is not, contact ComStream for technical support.
• If it is, check to see if the maximum IFL cable length has
been exceeded (refer to Appendix C: Interfacility Link
(IFL) Cable Characteristics and Preparation).
- If the cable length has been exceeded, contact
ComStream for L-band amplifier recommendations.
- If the cable length has not been exceeded, replace the
LNB downconverter. If the problem persists, contact
6-8 Rev. F 08/95


Symptom Action
RF Sync light is not illuminated 1. If the Audio Sync light is illuminated, then the unit requires
servicing.
2. If the ODU Fault light is illuminated, follow the procedure
for when the ODU Fault light is illuminated. If it is not
illuminated, connect the terminal to the M&C port.
3. If the Signal light is illuminated, follow the procedure for
when the Signal light is illuminated.
4. Ensure the configuration parameters are correct for the
installed application using the CC, FD, FS, and DI
commands.
5. If the configuration parameters have been confirmed:
a. Connect the spectrum analyzer to the ABR RF Out port (a
DC block is not required at the RF Out).
b. Ensure a proper L-band signal is present.
c. If required, repeak the antenna.
Audio Sync light is not If the RF Sync and Signal lights are not illuminated, check
illuminated with the uplink station to ensure the audio encoder unit is
functioning properly. If it is, the unit may need servicing. If
not, the problem is at the uplink station.
Signal light is not illuminated or This indicates the receive signal strength is below the value set
is blinking by the Q0 or Q1 commands.
If the RF Sync light is not illuminated, the signal is too weak.
Check the signal strength by entering each of the following
commands: Q0 ?, Q1 ?, and EB ?.
If the value for EB is less than the default value for Q1, repeak
the antenna for maximum signal strength.
NOTE: If EB > Q1, the Signal light is illuminated
If Q0 < EB < Q1, the Signal light blinks
If EB < Q0, the Signal light is not illuminated
The default values are 4.0 dB for Q0 and 7.0 dB for
Q1.
Rev. F 08/95 6-9


Symptom Action
IDU Fault light is blinking or • If the light is blinking, it indicates a software download
illuminated attempt has not been successful. The receiver continues to
operate out of EPROM memory. Once the software
download has been successfully completed, this fault
automatically clears.
• If the light is illuminated,
a. Connect a terminal to the M&C port on the receiver.
b. Enter FL ? to determine what type of fault is occurring.
c. Follow the action descriptions associated with each fault
type.
• Faults 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are common faults and may
indicate the following:
- CC or FD are not configured correctly for carrier
acquisition
- The carrier is not present
• If the above faults are present, verify carrier status and
configuration before contacting ComStream for
technical support.
No audio, but the RF and Audio 1. Ensure the audio is not being muted by the M0, M1, and MU
Sync lights are illuminated commands.
2. Check the audio status (AS) to ensure audio operation is
permitted. If it is not, check with the uplink operator for
audio authorization.
3. Verify connector integrity and ensure the proper connections
are made to the audio output (DB-9 male) connector.
4. Use the built-in audio tests (AT command) to generate audio
tones. Monitor the audio output at the connector. If no tones
are present, the unit may need servicing. If audio is present,
contact ComStream for technical support.
Audio is highly distorted or • If the Signal light is not illuminated or is blinking, then a
garbled low signal strength may be the problem. Follow the
procedure for when the Signal light is illuminated.
• If the Signal light is illuminated, check the external
connections to the audio port to ensure no shorts or
intermittent connections are present.
NOTE: If the output feeds several pieces of equipment,
disconnect the external equipment and monitor the
audio at the connector. If the problem no longer
exists, then a wiring problem to the external
equipment exists and you should operate the external
equipment via a distribution amplifier.
6-10 Rev. F 08/95


Symptom Action
Audio has unusually high When operating in joint stereo mode, a high background
background noise (common mode) noise indicates there is a phase reversal at the
encoder’s audio inputs.
1. Recheck the encoder wiring to ensure the input leads, (+)
and (-), for both channels are properly connected.
2. Recheck the wiring connections at the output of the receiver
to ensure the correct phase for the audio outputs has been
connected.
Audio is at a low volume Ensure the connections at the uplink and downlink are correct
for both signal polarities (+ and -). When operating with a
single connection (e.g., + only), the output level is down 6 dB
when compared to balanced operation.
No data, but the RF and Audio 1. Check the unit authorization setting using the FD and FS
Sync lights are illuminated commands for the current format and ensure data operation
is permitted. If the current FD value, as selected by the FS
parameter, does not have a 2, 3, 6, or 7 as the last digit, then
data is not enabled. If it is not enabled, check with the uplink
operator for proper authorization.
2. Verify the interface cable and connector integrity by
ensuring the proper connections are made to the data port
output connector (DB-25 female) and that the
interconnecting cable is properly wired (straight-thru). The
Data port pinouts are described in Appendix A: Interface
Pinouts.
3. Ensure the external data terminal equipment (DTE) and data
port configuration P1 parameter (i.e., baud rate, stop
characters, parity) match by using the P1 command.
4. Test the user data port by entering the command X1 1. A
test pattern should be output to the DTE.
– If data output is observed, turn off the test pattern by
entering X1 0 and then contact the uplink operator to
verify data transmission.
– If data output is not observed, try connecting another type
of DTE (i.e., video terminal); if data is still not available,
contact ComStream for technical support.
Rev. F 08/95 6-11


Symptom Action
No relay closure operation, but 1. Check the unit authorization setting using the FD command
the RF and Audio Sync lights are for the current format and ensure relay closure operation is
illuminated permitted. If the FD value does not have a 4, 5, 6, or 7 as the
last digit, then the relays are not enabled. If they are not
enabled, check with the uplink operator.
2. Enter CO ?:
– If a 1 or 0 appears, then the cue signal from the uplink
cannot be processed properly. Enter CO XXXXXXXX to
allow the uplink to control the relays.
– If CO is XXXXXXXX, ensure the proper connections are
made to the Relay/Control port connector (DB-25 male)
and that the interconnecting cable is properly wired.
3. Use the built-in relay test (CO command) to individually
activate and deactivate the relay closures. Monitoring
contact closure with a multimeter at the connector is
preferred; this eliminates any misconnections. If proper
operation is still not observed, contact ComStream.
6-12 Rev. F 08/95

Chapter 7: Technical Specifications and Port
Information
LNB Downconverter (Outdoor Unit [ODU])
Input frequency range: 11.7 to 12.2 GHz

12.25 to 12.75 GHz
10.95 to 11.7 GHz
3.7 to 4.2 GHz
Output frequency range: 950 to 1450 MHz
950 to 1750 MHz
Conversion gain: 55 to 70 dB
Local oscillator: DRO (BPSK) or PLL (QPSK)
L-band Demodulator (Indoor Unit [IDU])
Input frequency: 950 to 1700 MHz, F connector, 75 ohm

Output power (to LNB): +18 VDC, 500 mA maximum current
Input signal level: -75 to -30 dBm
Frequency synthesis: 25 kHz steps
Demodulation type: BPSK or QPSK
FEC decoding: Rate 1/2 sequential
BER performance: 128 kbps (BPSK) 1x10-5 at 4.0 dB Eb/No
128 kbps (QPSK) 1x10-5 at 4.5 dB Eb/No
Audio threshold: 3.5 dB Eb/No (BPSK)*
4.0 dB Eb/No (QPSK)*
L-band output: Buffered for additional receivers,
F connector
75 ohm gain of -2 dB to +5 dB nominal,
+2 dB typical
Symbol rates:
ABR200-1 128, 192, 256, 384, 512 ksps
ABR200-2 64, 128, 192, 256, 512 ksps
AGC monitor: Analog voltage available on rear panel
AGC monitor range: 0 to 10 V
* Add 0.3 dB to threshold values for ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA rates.
Rev. F 08/95 7-1

Technical Specifications and Port Information ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Audio Performance
Frequency response: 15 Hz to 20.0 kHz
Audio output channels: One or two
Operating modes: Mono, dual mono (stereo), joint stereo
Compression technique: ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA
Compression factor: 12:1, 8:1, 6:1
ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA
data rates:
ABR200-1 64, 96, 128, 192, 256 kbps (BPSK)
96, 112*, 128, 192, 256, 384 kbps
(QPSK)
ABR200-2 64, 96, 128, 192*, 256 kbps (BPSK)
64, 96, 112*, 128, 192, 256, 384* kbps
(QPSK)
ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA Mono, dual mono, joint stereo
modes:
Channel change time: < 450 msec(1)
Total harmonic < 0.2% at 1 kHz3 (@ +8 dBu signal level)
distortion(2):
Dynamic range: > 90 dB
Signal to noise(3): > 85 dB (measured from +18 dBu(2))
Idle channel noise: < -64 dBu (unweighted)
Channel mute: < -100 dBu (unweighted)
Crosstalk (two channel): > 80 dB (all frequencies, measured from
+18 dBu(2))
Analog sampling rate: 48 kHz
Stereo phase deviation: < 1.0° for 0 to 10 kHz; < 3.0° for 10 to 20
kHz
Output levels: The output level will track the input level
with a +0.5 dB end-to-end gain variation.
The maximum input level is +18 dBu.
Direct-coupled, active-balanced or
unbalanced outputs will drive down to a
60 ohm load. Outputs have short circuit
protection. With a 600 ohm termination, a
0.7 dB output level reduction occurs.
With a 150 ohm termination a 2.9 dB
output level reduction occurs.
* Add 0.3 dB to threshold values for ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA rates.

1 For signal strength > 9 dB Eb/No (QPSK), > 7 dB Eb/No (BPSK).
2 0 dBu is defined to be 1 mW across a 600 ohm load (0.776 VRms).
3 Operating 256 kbps, dual mono, Eb/No > 10 dB (output terminated into 100 kohm).
7-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Technical Specifications and Port Information
Available Audio Rates and Bandwidths

The available audio rates and bandwidths for the ABR200 are shown in
Table 7-1.
Table 7-1. Available Audio Rates and Bandwidths

Audio Rate Bandwidth Audio Recommended
(kbps) Mode (kHz) Quality User Data Rate
64 mono 8.3 AM 2400
64 dual mono 8.3 --- 2400
96 dual mono 10 AM 4800
96 mono 20 CD 4800
96 joint stereo 10 AM 4800
112 mono 20 CD 4800
112 joint stereo 20 CD 4800
128 mono 20 CD 4800
192 mono 20 CD 9600
192 dual mono 20 CD 9600
256 mono 20 CD 9600
384 mono 20 CD 9600
NOTE: The maximum user data rate is 9600 baud for all audio rates, however, you
should select lower user data rates when using audio rates below 128 K to
prevent any degradation of the audio quality.
Rev. F 08/95 7-3

Mechanical (IDU)
Size: 1.75" H x 16.75" W x 15" D
(19" Rack-mount)
2.9" H x 16.25" W x 17.125" D (Desktop)
Weight: < 13 lbs
Shipping weight: 24 lbs
Power
Input voltage (AC): 100 to 240 VAC +10%

Frequency: 47 to 63 Hz
Consumption: < 40 W typical
Environmental
Temperature: 0 to 50°C (IDU, operating)

-20 to 75°C (IDU, nonoperating)
-40 to +50°C (ODU, operating)
-50 to +60°C (ODU, nonoperating)
Humidity: 0 to 95% noncondensing (IDU, operating)
0% to 100% condensing (ODU,
operating)
Safety/Emissions: UL 1950; CSA 950; TUV EN 60950;
FCC Part 15B Class A; BZT Certified
Control Channel Interface Capabilities
Software network control: PC AT, Windows-based (optional)

Addressing: Unit or logical group
Receiver control: Configuration, audio/data port operation,
channel selection, etc.
Operating speed: 4800 default, 9600 capable
7-4 Rev. F 08/95

Monitor and Control Capabilities
Monitor: Receive signal level (Eb/No) channel

error rate, AGC level, bit error rate,
equipment alarms and faults, performance
monitoring
Control: Receive channel configuration, relay
mapping, alarm reporting, etc.
Status (Front Panel): Power, RF Sync, Audio Sync, Signal
level, IDU and ODU Fault summary
Rear Panel Ports
Audio Out Port
Connector: DB-9, male

Function: Left and right channel analog audio
output
For more information about audio performance, refer to the “Audio

Performance” section in this chapter.
Aux Port
Connector: DB-15, female
Functions: AES/EBU digital output (48 kHz
sampling rate)
AGC monitor voltage (1 pin)
Receiver fault alarm relay (Form A)
Synchronous composite data stream
input/output with clock, RS-449 levels
Rev. F 08/95 7-5

Relay Status Port
Relay contact closures: Eight, individually controlled from DAC

codec/mux at uplink
Relay type: Form A; 2 wires per contact; maximum
rating is 110 VAC at 1 amp.
Connector: DB-25, male
Operation: < 150 msec latency w.r.t. audio, with
error protection
Status inputs: 7 TTL with reference grounds, active
low, internally pulled up 4.7 kohm
resistors.
Status functions: 3 for local RF channel selection, 3
auxiliary alarm inputs, 1 unused
(reserved)
Interface biasing: +12V @ 50 mA max available for
powering opto-couplers in external
equipment
User Data Port
Interface type: Asynchronous RS-232 and addressable

RS-485 multidrop using ComStream’s
packet protocol
Data rates: 300, 1200, 2400, 48004, and 96005 baud
Connector: DB-25, female
the ABR200 data port configured for 1 stop bit. For data
channel configuration information, refer to the DAC400
Installation and Operation Guide.
7-6 Rev. F 08/95

M&C Port
Interface type: Asynchronous RS-232 and addressable

RS-485 multidrop using ComStream’s
packet protocol
Connector: DB-9, female, with DTR control
Default parameters: 2400, 7 data bits, odd parity, 1 stop bit,
RS-232 (programmable)
Functions: Unit configuration, diagnostics, and
status; connects to ASCII terminal or
telco modem.
4 4800 data only available when operating control channel > 9600 baud.
5 9600 data only available when operating control channel > 19200 baud.
Rev. F 08/95 7-7

COMSTREAM
A Spar Company
7-8 Rev. F 08/95

User Data Port
Table A-1. DB-25 Female, RS-232 Connector

Pin # I/O Name Description
1 O SG Signal Ground
2 I TD Transmit Data (Reserved)
3 O RD Receive Data
5 --- --- Not Used (Reserved)
6 O DSR Data Set Ready
11* O AUXRD- Aux Rcv Data RS-422 (-) (Rsrvd)
12* I AUXTD- Aux Tsmt Data RS-422 (-) (Rsrvd)
13* O AUXDSR Aux Data Set Ready (Rsrvd)
14* I AUXTD Aux Tsmt Data RS-232 (Rsrvd)
16* O AUXRD Aux Rcv Data RS-232 (Rsrvd)
19* I AUXDTR Aux Data Terminal Ready (Rsrvd)
20 I DTR Data Terminal Ready
24* O AUXRD+ Aux Rcv Data RS-422 (+) (Rsrvd)
25* I AUXTD+ Aux Tsmt Data RS-422 (+)(Rsrvd)
* Special configuration required.
Rev. F 08/95 A-1

Interface Pinouts ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Relay Control Port
Table A-2. DB-25 Male Connector

1 O RC1A Relay Closure Contact 1A
14 O RC1B Relay Closure Contact 1B
9 I SI1 Sensor Input 1, TTL
12 I MCRESET- M&C Port Reset
13 O +12V +12 V thru 220 ohm
(50 mA max) resistor
A-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Interface Pinouts
M&C Port
Table A-3. DB-9 Female, RS-232/RS-485 Connector

1* I TD+ Transmit Data, RS-485 (+)
2 O RD Receive Data, RS-232
3 I TD Transmit Data, RS-232
4 I DTR Data Terminal Ready
6 O DSR Data Set Ready
7* I TD- Transmit Data, RS-485 (-)
8* O RD+ Receive Data, RS-485 (+)
9* O RD- Receive Data, RS-485 (-)
* Special configuration required.
M&C Port Adapter Cable (DB-9-to-DB-25)

The M&C Port Adapter Cable connects the ABR200 with an RS-232
port. This cable is VT-100 compatible and available through ComStream
(CPN 30-0120-093).
Table A-4. M&C Port Adapter Cable

Male DB-9 Female DB-25
1 8
2 3
3 2
4 20
5 7
6 6
7 4
8 5
9 22
Rev. F 08/95 A-3

Analog Output Port
Table A-5. DB-9 Male Connector

1 O LO+ Left Audio Output (+)
2 O LO- Left Audio Output (-)
3 --- --- Not Used
4 O RO+ Right Audio Output (+)
5 O RO- Right Audio Output (-)
6 O AGND Analog Ground
7 --- --- Not Used
8 --- --- Not Used
9 O AGND Analog Ground
A-4 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Interface Pinouts
Auxiliary Port
Table A-6. DB-15 Female Connector

2 O Status+ Status Closure Contact 1
3* O RD+ Receive Data RS-422 (+) [B]
4* O RT- Receive Timing RS-422 (-) [A]
5 O AGC AGC Output Voltage 0-10 VDC
6* I BBRT- Baseband Rec. Timing RS-422 (-) [A]
7* I BBRD- Baseband Rec. Data RS-422 (-) [A]
8 O DIGOUT- AES/EBU Digital Audio Out (-)
9 O Status- Status Closure Contact 2
10* O RD- Receive Data RS-422 (-) [A]
11* O RT+ Receive Timing RS-422 (+) [B]
12 --- --- Not Used
13* I BBRT+ Baseband Rec. Timing RS-422 (+) [B]
14* I BBRD+ Baseband Rec. Data RS-422 (+) [B]
15 O DIGOUT+ AES/EBU Digital Audio Out (+)
*Special configuration required.
[A] Denotes primary signal for differential input/output
[B] Denotes return signal
NOTE: The RD+, RD-, RT+, and RT- abbreviations/acronyms have

been changed to match the pinout definitions of other
ComStream products.
Rev. F 08/95 A-5

COMSTREAM
A Spar Company
A-6 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
The ABR200 can be controlled and operated from a remote location by
connecting the receiver to the public telephone network using the
ComStream-approved, Hayes-compatible modem (CPN 30-0120-194).
This appendix provides the necessary details for configuring the telco
modem and connecting it to the ABR200.
Modem Configuration
To ensure proper operation of the ComStream-approved,
Hayes-compatible modem (CPN 30-0120-194), the modem must be
initialized, as shown in Table B-1, when it is connected to the ABR200.
Table B-1. Hayes-Compatible Modem Configuration

Modem Command Description of Modem Actions
AT&D0 Modem ignores DTR
ATS0=1 Modem answers on one ring
AT&C1 Carrier detect (CD) active when remote
carrier detected
ATQ1 Modem does not send result codes
AT&Y0 Select profile 0 as power-up configuration
ATE0 Echo off
AT&W0 Write configuration to profile 0
Rev. F 08/95 B-1

Telephone Modem Operation ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Modem Connection
A Hayes-compatible modem (CPN 30-0120-194) connects to the
ABR200 M&C port via a special adapter cable. Table B-2 details the
interconnecting cable that should be used. This cable is available
through ComStream (CPN 05-0505-001).
Table B-2. Modem Adapter Cable

DB-9 ABR DB-25 Modem
(Male) Function To (Male) Function
2 Out-Receive Data 2 In-Transmit Data
3 In-Transmit Data 3 Out-Receive Data
5 Signal Ground 7 Signal Ground
4 In-Data Terminal Ready 8 Out-Carrier Detect
6 Out-Data Set Ready 20 In-Data Terminal Ready
B-2 Rev. F 08/95

Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable
Characteristics and Preparation
Cable Characteristics
General Characteristics
All cables should be uniform in quality and free from any burrs, die
marks, chatter marks, foreign material, or other defects that may affect
life, serviceability, or appearance.
The cable must be capable of being pulled in one-inch diameter conduit

with pull boxes at 90° bends and every 200 feet, without distortion or
change in electrical performance or structural integrity.
The cable should have a design life of 10 years after installation in an

outdoor environment and be subject to the complete range of industrial
pollutants, temperature extremes, precipitation, humidity, solar
radiation, and salt water corrosion typically encountered at the
installation site.
The minimum bend radius should be five times the cable’s outside
diameter. The electrical specifications must be met at the minimum bend
radius.
Outer Cable Jacket

The jacket should cover the cable tightly and evenly in a manner
consistent with the physical, mechanical, environmental, and
dimensional requirements. The outer jacket material should be
weatherproof and suitable for direct burial. A flooding compound must
be applied to the outer braid under the jacket of the coaxial cable to
block moisture and resist corrosion.
Polyisobutylene is the recommended flooding compound. Polyvinyl-

chloride, Thermoplastic rubber, or Teflon are suitable jacket materials.
The jacket must resist abrasion, scuffing, and peeling during the pulling
process. The cable must also have sufficient flexibility at 15° to permit
installation.
Maximum shrinkage tolerance of the cable jacket should be sufficient to

still allow full termination capability following any shrinkage.
Rev. F 08/95 C-1

IFL Cable Characteristics and Preparations ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Cable Specifications/Vendors
The following specifications define the required performance parameters
of the IFL cable intended for use with the ABR200. The IFL cable must
conform to these specifications to guarantee that the ComStream
equipment will operate properly. Table C-1 provides the recommended
vendors for the RG-11 cable. Table C-2 lists the recommended crimp
tool and F-connector vendors.
NOTE: Especially important is the use of a quad-shielded coax for the

RF cable. Without quad-shielding, your system may be subject
to outside radio frequency interference. This interference can
degrade the performance of the ABR200 receiver.
Table C-1. Recommended Vendors, Quad-Shielded RG-11 Coax

Manufacturer Manufacturer Preference
Telephone # Part Number Rank
Times Fiber 2282 1
(800) 688-6904 2262 2
Comscope 5950 1
(800) 982-1708 2287* 2
*Suitable for direct burial.
Table C-2. Recommended Vendors, F Connectors and Crimp Tool

Manufacturer Manufacturer Preference
Part Telephone # Part Number Rank
F connector LRC Electronics F11-QS -
(607) 739-3603
Crimp tool Gilbert Engineering GCRT-211 1
(800) 245-2050
LRC Electronics CT611QS 2
(607) 739-3603
C-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver IFL Cable Characteristics and Preparation
Cable type is determined by the amount of maximum signal loss

specified in Table C-3.
Table C-3. Signal Loss per 100 Foot Length for

Common Cable Types
Cable Type Loss Per 100 Feet
RG-11(preferred) 5.9 dB
RG-35 3.7 dB
Generally, an IFL cable run of 0 to 420 feet (0 to 129 m) requires the

following cable specifications:
Cable type: RG-11

Impedance: 75 ohm
DC resistance: Less than 16.1 ohm per 1000 feet
Shield: Quad-shielding system
Shield coverage: 100%
Capacitance: 16.5 picofarads per foot
Jacket: PVC
Maximum loss: 5.9 dB per 100 feet at 1450 MHz
IDU connector: F male
ODU connector: F male
Rev. F 08/95 C-3

IFL cable runs of 400 to 670 feet (123 to 206 m) require the following
cable specifications:
Cable type: RG-35

Impedance: 75 ohm
DC resistance: 1.15 ohm per 1000 feet
Shield: Single shield, solid
Shield coverage: 100%
Capacitance: 15.4 picofarads per foot
Jacket: Standard PVC
Maximum loss: 2.69 dB per 100 feet at 1500 MHz
Outside diameter: 0.63 in over jacket
Minimum bend radius: 5.0 MHz
Weight: 0.14 lbs/ft
IDU connector: N (male), F (male) available with adapter
ODU connector: N (male), F (male) available with adapter
NOTE: Only N and UHF-type connectors are available. An N-to-F

adapter must be used.
An N-to-F adapter is ComStream part numbers 31-0120-031
and 31-0121-031.
RG-35 cable is provided by Andrew Corporation (Andrew part
number: LDF4-75A). The N plug (male) 50 ohm pin is
Andrew part number: L44W-75.
NOTE: Overall cable voltage drop should be less than 3 V, regardless

of length, cable type, LNB type, or data rate.
C-4 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver IFL Cable Characteristics and Preparation
IFL Cable Preparation

This section assumes an RG-11 coaxial cable is being used in the
installation. For any other cable type, the procedures remain the same
with only the dimensions changing. Before connecting the coaxial cable,
prepare it by attaching the F connectors as described here and as
illustrated in Figure C-1:
1. Remove 3/4 inch (9.55 mm) of the cable jacket, being careful not to
cut through the braid. Fold the first layer of exposed braid back over
the jacket.
2. Cut through the remaining foil, braid, and dielectric to expose
1/4 inch of center conductor. Do not score the center conductor.
3. Remove the first foil, making sure the braid is not cut, and fold the
second braid over the jacket.
4. Cut through the foil and dielectric to the center conductor an
additional 3/8 inch. Do not score the center conductor.
5. Insert the connector over the foil and dielectric until it bottoms.
6. Crimp the collar using a .470 to .475 hex crimp tool, as shown in
Figure C-1.
Use the following steps to complete the connection of the coaxial cable:
1. Cut off approximately two inches of weatherproof, heat-shrink
tubing (Alpha Part Number FIT-650-3/4, or equivalent) and place it
over the end of the coax cable. When installation is complete, this is
used to provide a weatherproof shroud for the outdoor IFL
connector, up to the body of the LNB downconverter.
2. Connect the IFL coax cable to the coaxial cable connector.
3. Slide the heat-shrink tubing over the coaxial connector and male
F connector on the LNB downconverter so it completely envelops
the threaded portion. Apply heat to the heat-shrink tubing in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Loop the IFL cable and tie-wrap the cable to the lower feed rod.
Loop the cable in such a way that the length of the cable between the
LNB downconverter and the tie-wrap nearest it is approximately
10 inches.
5. Add additional tie-wraps along the lower feed rod at the middle and
bottom, as required, to secure the IFL cable.
Rev. F 08/95 C-5

Figure C-1. Coax Cable and F Connector Assembly (to scale)
C-6 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This appendix explains the assembly and setup of the optional Prodelin
antenna system for use with the ABR200. These instructions simply
serve as a sample and are an example of how to assemble and set up an
antenna. If another antenna system is being used, the assembly and setup
instructions for that system should be followed.
Satellite Positioning
The following discussion of the internationally used earth coordinates
locating system is to assist the site planner in approximating the location
of the satellite of interest (i.e., the satellite that will be broadcasting to
the receiver site).
Communication satellites are located in geosynchronous earth orbit,

meaning their speed matches the rotation of the earth, and they remain in
a relatively fixed position in the sky. This simplifies the placement of a
satellite receive antenna since it can point to a single location in the sky
and successfully pick up the incoming signal.
The orbit of choice for geosynchronous satellites is directly over the

equator at a distance of 22,245 miles (35,800 km). The exact direction
an antenna must point to pick up the signal broadcast by a particular
satellite is determined by the antenna’s position north or south of the
equator and the point on the equator over which the satellite is located.
Since the satellite occupies a stationary position somewhere on the
earth’s equator, its position is given in degrees of longitude.
Longitude is one component in a global coordinate system. The

numerical value of the longitude component locates a position on the
earth in degrees, minutes, and seconds east or west of the prime
meridian (perpendicular to the equator). Latitude, the other value,
indicates points on the earth that are north or south of the equator. The
prime meridian, at zero degrees (0°) longitude, is an imaginary vertical
line on the face of the earth that passes directly through the Royal Naval
Observatory in Greenwich, England. From the prime meridian, traveling
in either an easterly or westerly direction causes longitude values to
increase from zero. When the 180° longitude line is reached, the traveler
has moved halfway around the globe from the prime meridian (at a point
located on the international date line).
Rev. F 08/95 D-1

Antenna Installation (Prodelin) ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
In this manner, any point on the equator can be exactly referenced by

giving its position in degrees of east or west longitude. For example,
traveling westward from Greenwich, England (across the Atlantic
toward the U.S.), about one-quarter of the way around the globe, or 90°
west longitude, would be the vertical line that intersects the city of New
Orleans, Louisiana. If there were a communications satellite located
over the equator on the same line as New Orleans, its position would
also be 90° west longitude or, as more commonly abbreviated, 90°W.
One degree of longitude is about 70 miles in length at the equator. To

further pinpoint a location, degrees are subdivided into minutes and
seconds. There are 60 minutes per degree, and each minute is further
divided into 60 seconds. To simplify their use, degrees, seconds, and
minutes are abbreviated using symbols as shown in the following
example: 117°, 47', 23".
For a receiver to successfully pick up a satellite transmission, there must

be an obstacle-free line of sight between the two. The site planner must
ensure that the location of the antenna will comply with this
requirement.
Site Location
Since communication satellites are placed over the equator, any receiver
in the northern hemisphere must have a clear line of sight toward a
generally southern direction, while a receiver in the southern hemisphere
must have a clear line generally northward.
The following example is for a receiver in the northern hemisphere:
If the proposed site of the receiving antenna is generally free of

obstructions to the south, with adequate freedom of movement east
and west, the site is suitable for free line-of-sight access to the
satellite. If, however, the southerly view from the proposed site is
cluttered with tall buildings, mountains, trees, or other obstructions,
the planner should determine the actual position of the satellite(s)
and verify that the chosen location is suitable.
The most common locations for antenna mounting are on the ground, a
rooftop, or attached to the side of a building. Mounting an antenna at
ground level normally requires the pouring of concrete with a mounting
post embedded in the center. Rooftop or side mounting is more
complicated and requires a carefully planned method for anchoring the
dish.
It is important to remember that the typical satellite dish is a large and

heavy object, up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) in diameter. If atmospheric
conditions at the site include high winds or severe storms, appropriate
safeguards should be taken during the construction of the antenna base
and mounting structures.
D-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Antenna Installation (Prodelin)
Antenna Assembly
The following section describes the assembly and mounting of a
standard 1.8 meter antenna. It is provided for reference only and is
typical for a broadcast network. This information is not intended to
replace instructions supplied by the antenna manufacturer.
Maximum Bolt Torques

Unless otherwise specified, the bolt torques listed in Table D-1 apply to
the assembly of the antenna. These specifications should not be
exceeded, as excessive torque can seriously weaken fasteners and
undermine structural integrity.
Table D-1. Thread Size and Bolt Torque

Thread Size Torque (ft/lbs)
1/4-20 5
5/16-18 11
3/8-16 16
1/2-13 40
5/6-11 85
Rev. F 08/95 D-3

Tools Required
The following tools are required for antenna assembly and installation:
• 1 Ratchet wrench, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 7/16 inch deep well socket, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 3/ 4 inch deep well socket, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 7/16 inch regular socket, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 15/16 inch regular socket, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 10 inch open-end adjustable wrench
• 1 150 ft/lb torque wrench, 1/2 inch drive
• 1 5/16 inch combination wrench
• 1 9/16 inch combination wrench
• 1 1/ 2 inch combination wrench
• 1 3/ 4 x 11/16 inch open-end wrench
• 1 Phillips screwdriver
• 1 Straightslot screwdriver
• 1 1/ 4 inch nut driver
• 1 7/16 inch nut driver
• 1 Inclinometer
• 1 Flexible ruler
Unpacking
The antenna containers should be unpacked and inspected at the earliest
date possible to ensure that all material has been received and is in good
condition. Check all material against the packing list.
D-4 Rev. F 08/95

Antenna Setup
Foundation
The most important part of the installation process is the preparation of a
foundation that will support the weight and weather-induced stresses
upon the antenna while maintaining the ability for its proper orientation
to the satellite.
This section explains the straight, in-ground mast installation, as shown

in Figure D-1. This is but one of several possible mounting
configurations. Each installation should use the most appropriate
antenna mounting method consistent with the needs of the site.
Figure D-1. Typical Antenna Mast Installation
ComStream does not warrant the method used nor the feasibility of a
given mounting method for a particular site. It is the purchaser’s
responsibility to determine the applicability of any antenna mount.
The mast upright must be constructed of, at minimum, 3 ½ inch ID
(4.0 inch OD), schedule 40 steel pipe, with angle iron welded 12 inches
from the bottom to prevent rotation. The angle iron and pipe should
conform to ASTM A36 standards.
No attempts to install the antenna should be made until at least 24 hours

after pouring the concrete for the mast base. The concrete used should
conform to building standards and have a minimum compressive
strength of 3000 PSI at 28 days (per ACI-318-77).
Rev. F 08/95 D-5

To meet local building codes, the antenna and mast should be properly
grounded. The antenna can be grounded by attaching a .059 inch
stainless steel strap, 26 inches by 1 inch, between two points on the
antenna.
One end of the strap should be attached to the outside back rim of the
reflector where the LNB support rod bolts to the reflector. The other end
should be attached to the nearest bolt holding one of the reflector
support arms to the back of the reflector. An example of where the
grounding strap might be located on an antenna is shown in Figure D-2.
Figure D-2. Possible Location of Antenna Ground Strap
During the assembly procedure, the instructions must be performed

carefully in the order listed. No hardware should be tightened until the
instructions actually say to do so.
D-6 Rev. F 08/95

A typical 1.8 meter antenna consists of four major components, as

shown in Figure D-3:
• Azimuth/Elevation (AZ/EL) Positioner
• Reflector Support Tube and Support Arms
• Reflector
• Feed Support Rods and LNB Assembly
Figure D-3. Antenna Assembly
The antenna assembly mounts on a 4.0 inch OD vertical pipe, extending

48 inches above ground level. The following instructions assume that the
foundation and mast pipe have been properly installed.
Rev. F 08/95 D-7

Reflector and Mount Assembly

To assemble the reflector and mount assembly:
1. Fasten the azimuth/elevation (AZ/EL) positioner assembly to the
mast pipe, as shown in Figure D-4. Tighten the three canister bolts
equally, avoiding a skewed or crooked appearance.
2. Install the reflector support tube to the AZ/EL positioner assembly
using the three 5/8-11 by 6 inch bolts. Each bolt requires two flat
washers and a lock washer below the nut. Hand-tighten and torque
each of the bolts. For a detail of the attaching hardware, refer to
Figure D-5.
NOTE: Use flat washers and a lock washer.
3. Attach the two reflector support arms to the reflector support tube
using the ½-13 by 2.75 inch bolts. Each bolt requires two flat
washers and a lock washer below the nut. Hand-tighten the four
bolts.
Be sure the bolt holes in the reflector mounting pads at the end of
the arms are correctly oriented toward the reflector. The four bolts
are torqued after the feed support structure is assembled.
4. Lift, position, and attach the reflector to the reflector support arms.
The top reflector support arm is attached using four 3/8-16 by 5 inch
bolts. The lower reflector support arm uses four 3/8-16 by 4 1/2 inch
bolts. Each bolt assembly should use two flat washers and a lock
washer below the nut.
5. Tighten and torque each of the eight bolts that attach the reflector to
the reflector support arms.
D-8 Rev. F 08/95

Figure D-4. Azimuth/Elevation Positioner
Figure D-5. Antenna Hardware Detail
Rev. F 08/95 D-9

LNB Downconverter/Feed Assembly

Because of the light weight of the LNB downconverter assembly, the
feed rods alone are adequate to support it. Avoid over-tightening the
Allen-head screws used in the assembly.
To attach the LNB downconverter to the reflector:

1. Attach the feed support rods to the reflector.
2. Position and attach the feed horn support rods to the feed horn. The
reflector can be laterally adjusted to center the feed horn.
3. Tighten and torque the bolts attaching the reflector to the reflector
support arms.
4. Assemble the feed horn and LNB downconverter as shown in
Figure D-6.
5. Position the LNB downconverter assembly and attach the feed
support rods as shown in Figure D-7.
This completes the mechanical assembly of the antenna.
Figure D-6. LNB Downconverter Assembly
D-10 Rev. F 08/95

Feed Rod-to-Feed Horn Attachment
Feed Rod-to-Reflector Attachment
Figure D-7. Feed Support Rod Attachment
Rev. F 08/95 D-11

COMSTREAM
A Spar Company
D-12 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This appendix describes the activities necessary to:
• Point the ABR200 receive-only antenna at the appropriate satellite
• Acquire an out-route carrier
• Perform antenna peaking adjustments
Proper antenna alignment is imperative to ensure proper overall system

performance.
The procedure for antenna alignment can be summarized in the

following steps:
1. Obtain antenna-aiming values for the azimuth, elevation, and
polarization.
2. Adjust the antenna to these values as a coarse approximation in
acquiring the satellite.
3. Acquire the appropriate satellite by receiving expected carrier(s).
4. Peak the antenna by maximizing the receive signal.
5. Record final antenna-aiming values.
Tool/Equipment Requirements
The following tools and test equipment are required to properly align the
antenna:
• Spectrum analyzer (L-band) (portable preferred)
• Coax cable, 4 to 6 feet long with an F connector on one end and a
spectrum analyzer-compatible connector on the other end
• Large, adjustable, open-end wrench
• Inclinometer
• Magnetic compass
• Calculator (for computing azimuth, elevation, and polarization)
• Permanent ink (felt tip) marking pen
Rev. F 08/95 E-1

Antenna Aiming and Peaking ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Calculating Antenna-Aiming Values

To aim the antenna, first determine the exact position of the satellite
relative to the earth station position on the surface of the earth. As a
minimum the elevation look angle and azimuth are required to perform
an initial aim of the antenna. These values can be derived from the earth
station site latitude and longitude and the satellite longitude. Before
using the following equations, verify the satellite has a clear line of sight
to the earth station.
Z = Satellite Longitude (West = +, East = -)
Y = Earth Station Longitude (West = +, East = -)
X = Earth Station Latitude (North = +, South = -)
W=|Z-Y|
K = 1 if Z >= Y, -1 if Z < Y
R = Satellite Distance from Earth = 42230 km
Ro = Earth Radius = 6370 km
D = Distance from Earth Station to Satellite
E = Elevation Look Angle
NOTE: For offset antennas, subtract 22.3° from E to obtain the correct
elevation look angle.
True Azimuth
Pol Angle
Φ π Ι
Η Κ Φ Ι
1
= arctan sinW ⋅ ∗
180 tan X ⋅ π
Η Κ 180
To determine the latitude and longitude of the earth station, use a map,
atlas, or navigation system (such as LORAN). An alternative method is
to contact a broadcast station in the area. The latitude and longitude are
recorded on the station license.
Compute the values using a scientific calculator and the above formulas.
Recheck your work and write down your results for later reference.
E-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Antenna Aiming and Peaking
Coarse Antenna Pointing

The following steps describe the procedure for pointing the antenna at
the appropriate satellite. The overall time required to point and peak the
antenna can be significantly reduced if the initial point is correct, so it is
important to complete the following steps accurately and completely.
Coarse Elevation Alignment

The elevation is adjusted by turning the elevation adjustment bolt on the
rear of the AZ/EL positioner assembly, as shown in Figure E-1.
To adjust the elevation:

1. Place the inclinometer on the reflector support tube where shown in
Figure E-2.
2. The antenna elevation should be adjusted so that the inclinometer
reads the look angle minus 22.3° (antenna offset). For example, if
the computed elevation angle is 60.5°, the elevation should be
adjusted until the inclinometer reads 38.2°.
3. Using the adjustable, open-end wrench, loosen the elevation locking
nuts, as shown in Figure E-1.
4. Adjust the antenna to the desired inclinometer reading by using the
open end to turn the elevation adjustment bolt.
NOTE: If a large elevation adjustment is necessary, one person can lift

up on the feed support tube to relieve tension on the
adjustment nut. Then the second person can adjust the nut by
hand to the new location on the adjustment bolt.
Rev. F 08/95 E-3

Figure E-1. Azimuth/Elevation Positioner
Figure E-2. Inclinometer Placement
E-4 Rev. F 08/95

Coarse Azimuth Alignment

The azimuth of the antenna is adjusted by rotating the AZ/EL position
and antenna around the mast.
To adjust the azimuth:
1. Using a compass, determine the proper azimuth to which the
antenna should be pointed. The compass must first be corrected for
the magnetic declination based on the location of the antenna.
NOTE: The proper declination must be factored into compass

readings, or errors of as much as 20° may result.
2. Ensure the canister bolts (shown in Figure E-1) used to lock the
antenna azimuth are finger loose so the AZ/EL positioner is free to
turn on the mast.
3. With the compass in hand, walk in front of the antenna and position
yourself so that the compass reading corresponds to the desired
azimuth reading with respect to the antenna axis.
NOTE: Be sure to take compass position readings as far away as

possible from any metal that may affect a true reading. Be
especially cautious on roof tops. If heavy metal reinforcement
is used, the compass reading can be off by as much as 40°. To
circumvent this, determine the azimuth of one side of the
building by taking a reading on the street level away from the
building. The building side can now be used as a point of
reference.
4. Swing the antenna to point at the compass heading determined in the

previous step.
Coarse Polarization Alignment

The polarization of the feed is adjusted by rotating the LNB/Feed
Assembly on its mount axis. Most satellites operate both horizontal and
vertical polarization planes using the same frequency assignments,
doubling the amount of operational bandwidth. Ensure the carrier using
vertical polarization does not interfere with the same frequency using the
horizontal polarization. Figure E-3 provides an example satellite
spectrum with the polarization adjusted to view both vertical and
horizontal planes. Figures E-4 and E-5 show the spectrum of the same
satellite when the receive feed is properly polarized vertically and
horizontally, respectively. Note the separation of carriers that occurs.
Rev. F 08/95 E-5

Figure E-3. Sample Spectrum, Mixed Vertical and Horizontal Polarization
Figure E-4. Sample Spectrum, Vertical Polarization Antenna Fine Aiming
E-6 Rev. F 08/95

Figure E-5. Sample Spectrum, Horizontal Polarization Antenna Fine Aiming
Antenna Fine Aiming
Signal-Based Alignment
The previous coarse aiming procedure aligns the antenna so that it points
in the approximate direction of the satellite. To accurately locate the
satellite, the azimuth, elevation, and polarization must be adjusted to
maximize the signal level of the received carrier on the spectrum
analyzer.
Before beginning this procedure, ensure the canister bolts are just loose
enough to permit the AZ/EL positioner to rotate on the mast pipe. Check
all six bolts to ensure each is in contact with the mast pipe and that the
positioner is in alignment with the mast pipe.
To align the antenna based on the signal:
1. Connect the spectrum analyzer to the LNB downconverter. Ensure
that approximately +18 VDC power is supplied to the LNB
downconverter, and that the spectrum analyzer is adjusted for the
correct L-band frequency of the downconverted satellite broadcast.
2. With the elevation angle constant, slowly adjust the azimuth over a
range 0.5 inch on either side of the notch in the mast while looking
for a carrier with the appropriate data bandwidth at the center of the
display on the spectrum analyzer.
3. If the carrier is present, adjust the azimuth to peak the carrier power,
as indicated by the spectrum analyzer.
Rev. F 08/95 E-7

4. Perform Steps 2 and 3 above using the elevation adjustment with a

constant azimuth. Slowly adjust the elevation angle up and down to
obtain the strongest carrier power.
5. To adjust the polarization, rotate the LNB downconverter assembly
to obtain the strongest carrier power. Fine-tune the polarization by
nulling out the cross-polarization interference in the desired signal.
The LNB may be rotated by loosening the screws that attach the
feed to the LNB downconverter. Retighten the screws after the
polarization adjustment is complete.
6. Repeat all adjustments as necessary to peak the received
signal-to-noise ratio.
Carrier Not Found

If the carrier is not present, increase the elevation angle by making
several clockwise turns of the elevation adjusting bolt and repeating the
steps for signal-based alignment. If the carrier still is not found, continue
increasing the elevation angle and repeating the steps for signal-based
alignment until the elevation angle, as measured on the inclinometer, has
been increased by 2°.
If increasing the elevation angle 2° does not locate the carrier, begin to
decrease the elevation angle by making several counterclockwise turns
of the elevation adjust bolt. After each decrease in elevation angle,
repeat the signal-based azimuth and polarization adjustment. Continue
this process until the carrier is located or the elevation angle is 2° less
than the computed angle.
If the carrier has not been located at this point, repeat the coarse aiming
procedure to ensure the approximate satellite location has been correctly
obtained.
Final Antenna Peaking

If optimal system performance is not required, skip the following steps
and proceed to the “Final Steps” section of this appendix. However, the
additional time and effort needed to perform these steps will be well
worth the potential gain in system performance.
E-8 Rev. F 08/95

Elevation Peaking
To achieve the optimum elevation peak:
1. Perform an EB query command and observe the received Eb/No
value.
2. Increase the elevation by making one clockwise turn of the elevation
adjusting bolt.
3. Perform another EB ?.
If the Eb/No remains the same or increases, continue to increase the
elevation angle one turn at a time with Eb/No measurements
between each adjustment until the Eb/No drops off. Once the Eb/No
drops off, proceed to decrease the elevation angle (counter-
clockwise turns) until the Eb/No drops off again. Keep track of how
many turns are made. Now divide the number of turns by two and
increase the elevation by that many turns. The measured Eb/No
should be at its peak value.
If the Eb/No decreases after the first increase in the elevation angle,
decrease the elevation angle (counter-clockwise direction) and
perform Eb/No measurements until the ratio peaks then decreases
again. Keep track of how many turns are made. Now divide the
number of turns by two and increase the elevation by that many
turns. The measured Eb/No should be at its peak value.
4. Tighten the lock nuts on the elevation adjustment bolt, as shown in
Figure E-1. Observe the spectrum analyzer or monitor the Eb/No
measurements to ensure that tightening the lock nuts does not cause
a drop in signal-to-noise ratio.
Azimuth Peaking
The azimuth peaking procedure is very similar to the elevation peaking
procedure. Change the azimuth in one direction very slightly and
perform Eb/No measurements after each change until the measurement
decreases. Then repeat the process in the other direction until the
maximum Eb/No measurement is obtained.
Tighten the canister bolts, as shown in Figure E-1. Observe the spectrum
analyzer or monitor the Eb/No measurements to ensure that tightening
the lock nuts does not cause a drop in signal-to-noise ratio.
Polarization Peaking
Polarization is peaked under the direction of the satellite operations
center. It is adjusted for minimum interference or bleed-through by
monitoring the polarity opposite the uplink in use.
Rev. F 08/95 E-9

Final Steps
To finish the antenna peaking procedure:
1. Recheck to ensure all nuts and bolts on the antenna are securely
tightened.
2. Using the marking pen, draw a 2 inch vertical line between the
bottom of the AZ/EL positioner and the mast pipe. This will identify
the azimuth position of the antenna for later reference.
3. Remeasure the azimuth, elevation, and polarization and record these
values for future reference.
E-10 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
This appendix provides a summary of the ABR software revisions.
There are two different types of software within the ABR200 unit,
control processor software, and audio decoder software. The control
software can be updated over the satellite from the uplink using a
network control computer. The audio decoder software can be updated
only at ComStream by physically replacing the memory chip.
Anytime a receiver is serviced at ComStream, the software is updated to

the latest revision level.
ABR Control Software

Version 1.38, Release Date: 4/94
This is the latest version of the ABR control software. For information
that details the changes made with version 1.38, refer to Appendix G:
Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes.
For information that details the changes made with version 1.37, refer to
Appendix G: Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes.
This software corrects a problem with the receiver that occasionally

occurs during a fade condition. This problem includes the following
symptoms:
• The receiver does not illuminate the Audio Sync Fault indicator on
the front panel, while the RF Sync and Signal level indicators
operate normally.
• The receiver does not have an audio output signal but the relays and
user data ports operate normally. When in this state, if the user
checks the receiver, via the Monitor and Control port, an error code
of FL 18 is displayed.
Rev. F 08/95 F-1

Software Revision History ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
This software version:

• Supports additional data rates:
ABR200-1 QPSK: 112
ABR200-2 BPSK: 192
QPSK: 112, 384
• Adds the AP (CS8204 inputs) command that provides users with
access to the inputs of the CS8204 digital transmitter that specify the
control information to be transmitted
• Modifies the audio test (AT) command to allow an optional length
of time parameter
• Modifies the display configuration (DC) command to reflect the new
data rates supported by the ABR200
• Adds the composite data port enable (DE) command, which
enables/disables the composite baseband data to be output on the
auxiliary port connector
• Modifies the display parameters (DP) command to reflect the
changes made in v1.35
• Adds the decoder data source (DX) command, which selects the
input source for the audio decoder on the ABR200
• Adds the enable network (EN) command, which allows the user to
enable/disable the output of the network ID information via the
RS-232 data port
• Adds the maximum Eb/No (EX) command, which queries the
receiver for the maximum Eb/No value recorded since the last
maximum value was reset
• Adds an acquisition network ID fault (FL 31), which is declared
when the receiver achieves the RF sync but receives an invalid
network/channel ID, or no network/channel ID at all
• Adds a left/right channel toggle (LR) command, which instructs the
receiver to reverse the sense of the left/right audio channels
• Adds the master reset (MR) command, which allows the user to
reinitialize the receiver nonvolatile parameters to their factory
default settings
• Adds the audio mute (MU) command, which allows the user to mute
the audio output of the receiver
• Does not force an RF carrier reacquisition when the changes in the
format reflect only a receiver unit authorization modification
• Modifies the default threshold values for the Eb/No mute on/off to
M0=Eb/No mute on (4.0) and M1=Eb/No mute off (4.5)
F-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Software Revision History
This software release:

• Enhances the power on tests to include a special RAM memory test
Failure of this test is indicated by flashing front panel indicators in
two distinctive patterns: RF Sync, Signal and ODU Fault indicators
flash on, followed by Audio Sync and IDU Fault indicators flashing.
If the test passes, normal power-on processing and signal acquisition
occurs. The unit will indicate a failure as long as the RAM memory
test fails or the unit is reset (the test reruns).
• Supports the ABR200 (Type 2) unit designation for 64 Ksps
(64 kbps, QPSK) operation

This version of the software:
• Adds a new Ku-band frequency range of 10.95 GHz to 11.699 GHz
• Enables the watchdog timer for the control processor
This timer resets the control processor within 1.5 seconds of code
execution failure.
• Adds the network ID timeout fault (FL 30)
This error condition exists if the channel and network ID
information is not received over the control channel every 12
seconds.
• Changes the default value of the status relay mask (SR command) to
3749707775, which masks off FL 30 and FL 24 and activates on all
other faults
Version 1.32 (1.31), Release Date: 6/92
NOTE: Version 1.31 was released, but recalled.
This release:
• Changes the RF acquisition algorithm to improve fade acquisition
time by alternating between the last known frequency bin and the
new (expanding) search bin
• Automatically sets the B1 and B2 parameters according to the
symbol rate; these commands are now read-only
• Initializes the network and channel ID values as returned by the
network status (NS) command to 254 at the beginning of acquisition
• Changes the default values of B3 to 2000 (DRO LNB) and 200 (PLL
LNB)
Rev. F 08/95 F-3

Software Revision History ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
This software version:

• Changes several initialization values
• Changes FL 28 to indicate a software download fault and adds a
blinking IDU Fault indicator to provide a front panel indication
Audio Decoder Software

The revision number of the audio decoder software is displayed during
the decoder test (AT 4) command.
This release implements the left/right channel toggle and muting

options, as well as adds the 9600 baud user data capability. This version
of software is required to use the features and functions provided by the
version 1.37 and 1.38 ABR200 software.
This release permits operation with the ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA CRC
checksum or ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA standard CRC checksum. The
CRC operating mode is selected nominally at the uplink on the encoder.
The audio decoder software automatically selects which CRC to use for
operation.
This software version supports only ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA CRC

operation.
F-4 Rev. F 08/95

Appendix G:Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes
Overview
This appendix describes the changes made with the 1.37 and 1.38
versions of the ABR200 software. Version 1.37 software mainly
provides the terrestrial backlink (TB) feature, which gives the receiver
the ability to report its fault state to the network uplink. Both version
1.37 and 1.38 software added some commands, as well as modified some
existing ABR200 commands.
The Terrestrial Backlink

When a critical fault occurs, the terrestrial backlink feature enables the
ABR200 to automatically report its fault state to the network uplink site.
The receiver reports the fault state by establishing a terrestrial backlink
via a telco modem that is attached to its M&C port.
Operational Description
The basic operation of the TB is to periodically compare the faults
specified by the user with the fault history (FL command) of the
ABR200. If any of the specified faults occur in the receiver, a backlink is
initiated to alert the network that a fault has occurred at the remote
location.
There are two independent fault masks, F1 and F2, that correspond to the
two user-definable phone numbers, T1 and T2. If the TB detects a fault
that is a member of F1, the receiver initiates a link using the T1 phone
number. Likewise, if the TB detects a fault that is a member of F2, the
receiver initiates a link using the T2 phone number. If the fault is a
member of both F1 and F2, the receiver first initiates a backlink using
T1 and then initiates a call using T2. The length of time between the
backlink attempts is specified by the user via the alarm interval (AI)
command.
Rev. F 08/95 G-1

Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
Once a backlink is established, the computer at the network uplink site

has access to the ABR200’s M&C port. The ABR200 is already in a
state where it is logged in so that the computer at the uplink site does not
have to have knowledge of the receiver’s password. It is the
responsibility of the network uplink computer to query the ABR200 for
its current state; the TB does not automatically provide any information.
The network uplink site can issue any valid ABR200 command or query.
A recommended sequence of query/commands that can be issued are
shown in Table G-1.
Table G-1. Valid Commands that Can Be Sent From the Uplink
Site to the Remote Site ABR200
Command Command Description
ID Obtains the receiver’s physical ID
ST Obtains the current operating state of the receiver
CF Clears the fault history
TB Directs the receiver to terminate the link
The TB maintains the terrestrial link until either the network uplink
terminates the link or there is a period of five minutes of inactivity on
the link. The uplink site terminates the link by issuing a TB 0 command
to the ABR200. The TB 0 command instructs the receiver to terminate
the link from the remote site. Once the link is terminated, the TB waits a
user-specified length of time (AI command) before it starts to monitor
for faults again.
The TB continues to initiate backlinks until the fault history of the

receiver is cleared. The network uplink computer must clear the fault
history of the ABR200 to remove faults that have already been reported.
If a fault cannot be cleared due to the condition of the receiver, then
further backlink attempts can be prevented by either setting AI to 0 or by
removing the backlink phone number specified in T1 and T2.
G-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Version 1.37 and 1.38 Changes
Configuration
Telco Modem
The terrestrial backlink requires that a telco modem be connected to the

ABR200’s M&C port. The connection between the ABR200 and the
modem should be made with the cable shown in Table G-2
(CPN 05-0505-001).
Table G-2. Telco Modem Cable to be Used for the Terrestrial

Backlink
Telco Side ABR200 Side
DB-25 Male DB-9 Male
2 (TD to modem) 2
3 (RD from modem) 3
7 (ground) 5
8 (DCD from modem) 4
20 (DTR to modem) 6
The TB sends all initialization information to the telco modem so a

minimal amount of preconfiguration is needed. The only parameter that
must be configured on the telco modem prior to connection to the
ABR200 is the carrier detect status (&C) parameter. The terrestrial
backlink uses this line to determine if a telco link is already in progress.
If this line is asserted, then TB does not initiate a calling process. The
default value for the &C command is 0, which keeps this carrier-detect
line asserted. For TB to initiate a call, this parameter must be set to 1.
This parameter is set by hooking up an RS-232 terminal to the modem
via the telco modems 25-pin connector and typing AT&C1.
Once the parameter is set, the TB sends its own initialization string to
the telco modem before every backlink attempt. The string that is sent is
AT&D3&C1S0=1E0Q0V1&Y0.
The ABR200 also allows the user to define an initialization string that is
sent to the modem after the above initialization string is sent. This string
is configured using the TI command.
Rev. F 08/95 G-3

Terrestrial Backlink
The user must configure the TB with the:

• Fault conditions that will trigger a backlink attempt
• Telephone number to use for a backlink
• Interval of time to wait between consecutive backlink attempts
Use the commands in Table G-3 to configure the terrestrial backlink.
Table G-3. Terrestrial Backlink Commands

Command Description
AI Alarm Interval
F1 Fault Mask 1
F2 Fault Mask 2
For more information about these commands, refer to the “Commands

Added” section of this appendix.
General Changes
The user data port maximum baud rate has been increased to 9600 bps.
To utilize this faster speed, the receiver must have v1.16 or higher of
ISO/MPEG Layer II/IIA decoder software installed.
The MCRESET pin has been moved from pin 12 of the AUX port to pin
12 of the Relay Control port. The MCRESET pin allows the user to reset
the M&C port to the default parameters. These parameters reset if the
MCRESET pin is at a low level during receiver initialization after power
up. The default parameters for the M&C port are 2400,O,7,1, RS-232
electrical interface.
The channel error rate (CE) and read calculated bit error rate (RB)
commands are not provided in the v1.38 software.
G-4 Rev. F 08/95

Commands Added
AI Alarm Interval
Syntax: AI n
AI ?
The alarm interval command allows the user to specify the length of time
the receiver waits between backlink attempts. This command also allows
the user to disable the monitoring for faults that may cause an attempt to
establish a backlink.
n specifies the length of time the receiver waits between backlink

attempts when a fault is detected. The range for n is 0 to 65535, and the
units are in minutes. A value of 0 for n disables the monitoring of faults,
which prohibits the receiver from attempting any backlinks.
F1 Fault Mask 1
Syntax: F1 nnn
F1 ?
The F1 command specifies the faults that will trigger a backlink attempt
to the user-defined number specified in T1.
For example:


refer to the FL command in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation.)
Rev. F 08/95 G-5

F2 Fault Mask 2
Syntax: F2 nnn
F2 ?
The fault mask 2 command specifies the faults that will trigger a
backlink attempt to the user-defined number specified in T2.
For example:


refer to the FL command in Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control
Operation.)
LT LNB Type
Syntax: LT n
LT ?
The LNB type command allows the user to select a mode in which the
receiver automatically selects the LNB type.
The selection of the proper LNB type modifies receiver parameters that
are needed to perform carrier tracking properly. The two types of LNBs
that are used at the remote site system are DRO and PLL. A value of 0
for n configures the receiver for a DRO-type LNB, whereas a value of 1
for n configures the receiver for a PLL-type LNB.
A value of 2 for n instructs the receiver to automatically select the type

of LNB. The receiver uses the current modulation type, as specified in
the CC command, to determine for which LNB type to configure. If the
current modulation type is BPSK, the receiver configures for a
DRO-type LNB, whereas if the modulation type is QPSK, the receiver
configures for a PLL-type LNB. The receiver automatically selects the
LNB type prior to every RF acquisition attempted.
G-6 Rev. F 08/95

PA Packet Address
Syntax: PA n
PA ?
This command is used to set the packet address of the receiver. The
packet address is the external device address to which the receiver
responds when attached to an RS-485 multidrop bus. Using a terminal
program that supports ComStream packet protocol, each receiver on the
bus can receive commands that are specifically addressed to that
receiver, addressed to a group of receivers (of which the receiver is a
member), or addressed to all receivers.
Valid values for n are 1 to 31 and the default value is 31.
PO Packet-Only
Syntax: PO n
PO ?
The packet-only command is used to place the receiver in a mode so that

the receiver will only accept commands from the M&C port that are
formatted in the ComStream packet protocol format. ComStream packet
protocol contains addressing information that allows the ABR200 to be
placed on a 485 multidrop bus. When on a multidrop bus, it is
recommended that the receiver be placed in packet-only mode to
eliminate the possibility of the receiver responding to a command that
was not addressed to it.
A value of 1 for n directs the receiver to accept packet commands. A

value of 0 for n instructs the receiver to accept packet as well as
nonpacket formatted commands.

Syntax: S1 n
S1 ?
The S1 command selects the electrical interface for the auxiliary data.
A value of 0 for n selects the RS-232 electrical interface, whereas a

value of 1 for n selects the RS-422 electrical interface.
Rev. F 08/95 G-7


Syntax: S2 n
S2 ?
The S2 command is used to select the electrical interface for the M&C
port.
A value of 0 for n selects RS-232 electrical interface for the M&C port,
whereas a value of 1 selects the RS-422 electrical interface. The M&C
interface can be reset back to RS-232 by using the MCRESET pin
(Relay Control port, pin 12). If the MCRESET pin is held at a ground
state (Relay Control port, pin 25) during power-up initialization, the
M&C port resets to the default parameters of 2400,O,7,1, RS-232
electrical interface.
The factory initialized value for S2 is 0.

Syntax: T1 string
T1 ?
The T1 command specifies the telephone number the receiver uses in a

backlink attempt initiated by a fault that is a member of fault mask 1 (F1
command).
Hayes-compatible subcommands. When initiating a backlink the receiver
sends ATD followed immediately by the string entered by the user. The
following is a list of valid characters that can be entered:
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• * (asterisk)
• @ (at symbol)
• ; (semicolon)
• , (comma)
The following is an example of the T1 command:
T1 9,5553333
G-8 Rev. F 08/95


Syntax: T2 string
T2 ?
The T2 command is used to specify the telephone number the receiver

uses in a backlink attempt initiated by a fault that is a member of fault
mask 2 (F2 command).
Hayes-compatible subcommands. When initiating a backlink, the
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• * (asterisk)
• @ (at symbol)
• ; (semicolon)
• , (comma)
Syntax: TB n
TB ?
The TB command allows the user to manually initiate a terrestrial

backlink or terminate a backlink that is in progress.
A value of 1 for n instructs the receiver to establish a link using the

telephone number defined by the T1 command. Likewise, a value of 2
for n instructs the receiver to establish a backlink using the phone
number defined by the T2 command. A value of 0 for n instructs the
receiver to terminate any active backlinks.
Rev. F 08/95 G-9

Syntax: TI string
TB ?
This command allows the user to enter a specific initialization string for
the telco modem. This string is sent to the telco modem prior to every
backlink attempt. When a backlink is attempted, the ABR200 sends a
basic initialization string followed immediately by the user-defined
initialization string. The following sequence of strings is sent prior to
every backlink attempt:
AT&D3&C1S0=1E0Q0V1&Y0
AT user-defined string
The user-defined string can be a maximum of 40 characters. The valid
characters that can be sent are:
• 0 to 9
• A to Z
• &
• =
The default string for TI is &Q5W0&Y0.
Commands Modified

Syntax: EN n
EN ?
The EN command is used to select the type of data to be output on the

auxiliary data pins of the user data port.
A value of 1 for n enables the output of the network ID information. The

network ID information is generated at the uplink multiplexer and
contains network ID, channel ID, and relay control information. This
network ID information is used to support an external relay control unit
(RCU). The RCU-16 provides up to 16 relay contact closures. The
output of the network data is also conditioned on the unit authorization
(UA) command of the receiver as specified in the FD command. If the
receiver is not authorized to receive relay information, the network ID
data output is disabled regardless of the state of the EN command.
G-10 Rev. F 08/95

A value of 2 for n instructs the receiver to output the user data on the
auxiliary port pins instead of the user data pins. This provides the user
with the option of utilizing the auxiliary data’s RS-422 electrical
interface option for the user data output. For information on switching
between the RS-232 and RS-422 drivers for the auxiliary data output,
refer to the S1 command of this appendix.
A value of 3 for n enables the output of the user-defined data block. This
user-defined data block is a generic block type that is made available to
the user for user-specific needs. This data block is generated by the user
and is input at the uplink multiplexer by a user-supplied DTE. This data
block must follow the ComStream Block Transfer Protocol. The receiver
outputs the entire data block to a user-supplied DTE at the remote site.
Syntax: FD format_nn,network_ID_nnn,channel_nn,
unit_authorization_n,LR_value,MU_value
The format definition command now includes the LR and MU
parameters, which are optional values. If no values are entered for these
parameters when entering the FD command, then the LR and MU values
are not modified when this format is selected via the FS command. If
these values are entered, then the LR and MU values are modified when
this format is selected using the FS command. For acceptable values or
more information, refer to the LR and MU command sections of this
chapter.

Syntax: LR n
LR ?
The LR command configures the receiver so that the receiver directs the:
• Incoming left audio channel to both the left and right audio output
channels
or
• Incoming right audio channel to both the left and right audio output
channels
Rev. F 08/95 G-11

The value for n determines the output of the left and right audio
channels. Table G-4 provides the valid values for n.
Table G-4. Valid Values for the LR Command

n Audio Output Status
0 Normal output. Left input goes out on the left channel, and
the right input goes out on the right channel.
1 Reversed output. Left input goes out on the right channel,
and the right input goes out on the left channel.
2 Left input goes out on both the right and left channels.
3 Right input goes out on both the left and right channels.
NOTE: To utilize 2 and 3 of Table G-4, the receiver must have v1.16
MU Audio Mute
Syntax: MU n
MU ?
The audio mute command now includes independent muting (disabling)

of left and right audio channels.
The value for n determines the mute condition of the receiver. Valid
values for n are listed in Table G-5.
Table G-5. Valid Values for the MU Command

n Mute Condition
0 Both the left and right channels are enabled
1 Both the left and right channels are muted
2 The left channel is muted
3 The right channel is muted
NOTE: To utilize 2 and 3 in Table G-5, the receiver must have v1.16
G-12 Rev. F 08/95

Overview
The flowchart found on the following pages was designed to help you
diagnose and correct minor problems in the unlikely event that you
experience difficulties with your ABR200.
The first two pages of the flowchart list the primary symptoms you may
experience. Whenever you experience any difficulties with the ABR200,
begin at the top of the first page of the flowchart and work your way
through each primary symptom or question. If the flowchart directs you
to another page, go to the referenced page and work through that
procedure to resolve the symptom. If you have resolved a symptom but
are still experiencing difficulties, again start at the beginning of the
flowchart and work through each symptom.
If you need additional information while working through the flowchart,

refer to Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting.
Rev. F 08/95 H-1

Troubleshooting Flowchart ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver
No
Power light Go to page H-4
on?
Yes
Unable to Yes
communicate with Go to page H-5
receiver?
No
Yes
ODU Fault light Go to page H-6
on?
No
No
RF Sync light Go to page H-7
on?
Yes
No
Audio Sync Go to page H-8
light on?
Yes
Yes
Signal light off Go to page H-9
or blinking?
No
Yes
IDU Fault light on
Go to page
or blinking?
H-10
No
Go to page H-3
H-2 Rev. F 08/95

ABR200 Audio Broadcast Receiver Troubleshooting Flowchart
From page H-2
No audio Yes
Go to page
output?
H-11
No
Audio Yes
Go to page
distorted?
H-12
No
Audio with Yes

Go to page
noise?
H-13
No
Yes
Audio with low Go to page
volume? H-14
No
No data Yes
Go to page
output?
H-15
No
Yes
No relay
Go to page
closure?
H-16
No
Contact
ComStream for
technical support.
Rev. F 08/95 H-3

POWER PROBLEMS
Power cord No
Reseat the power
securely plugged
cord plug.
in?
Yes
No Verify the power source is

Has AC power been 90 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz.
verified?
Yes
Verify power cord

Has power cord No integrity by replacing it
integrity been with a known working
checked? power cord.
Yes
Contact ComStream
H-4 Rev. F 08/95

M&C
PROBLEMS
Yes Is the correct No Replace with the correct

Modem problem?
cable being cable (refer to Appendix B).
used?
No
Yes
Ensure the correct terminal

and configuration is being Contact ComStream
used. (Refer to Chapter 6 for for technical support.
the terminal and configuration
specifications.)
Press the ENTER key on the

terminal keyboard.
No Contact ComStream
Login message
displayed? for technical support.
Yes
Enter the password.
Are command Yes Contact ComStream for

responses being technical support in
displayed? determining initial problem.
No
Enable the echo feature

by entering EE 1.
If the problem persists,

contact ComStream.
Rev. F 08/95 H-5

ODU
PROBLEMS
This is normal and indicates

RF input Yes no current is being drawn by
daisy-chained? the LNB. Disable the indicator
using the OM command.
No
IFL cable No Connect the cable to

connected to LNB and both the LNB and RF In
RF In port? port.
Yes
Has cable No
connectivity been Verify cable and
verified? connector integrity.
Yes
No 18 VDC at
ABR RF Out
connector?
Yes
Contact ComStream for L-band

Has maximum Yes
amplifier recommendations.
IFL length been
NOTE: Maximum voltage drop
exceeded?
not to exceed 3 VDC.
No
No
Has LNB been Replace the
replaced? LNB.
Yes
Contact ComStream
H-6 Rev. F 08/95

RF SYNC
PROBLEMS
Audio Sync Yes Receiver requires

light on? service. Contact
ComStream.
No
Yes Follow the procedure

ODU Fault light
for when the ODU
on?
Fault light is on.
No
Connect the
terminal to the
M&C port.
Yes Follow the procedure

Signal light on?
for when the Signal
light is on.
No
Verify that the configuration

Have configuration No parameters are correct for the
parameters been installed application.
confirmed? See commands CC, FD, FS,
and DI.
Yes
Connect spectrum analyzer to

the RF Out port and ensure a
proper L-band signal is
present. NOTE: DC block not
required at the RF Out port.
Repeak antenna if
required.
Rev. F 08/95 H-7

AUDIO SYNC
PROBLEMS
Audio encoder at Yes Contact ComStream

uplink functioning?
No
Problem is at the
uplink.
H-8 Rev. F 08/95

SIGNAL LIGHT
PROBLEMS
Enter the commands

Q0 ?, Q1 ?, and EB ?.
If EB is less than the default
value of Q1, repeak the antenna
for maximum signal strength.
NOTE:
If EB > Q1the Signal light will be on
If Q0 < EB < Q1 the Signal light will blink
If EB < Q0 the Signal light will be off
Default values:
Q0 = 4.0 db
Q1 = 7.0 db
Rev. F 08/95 H-9

IDU FAULT PROBLEMS
Yes Software download attempt

IDU Fault light
not successful.
blinking?
Retry download.
No
Connect the terminal

to the M&C port.
Identify the fault using

the FL command.
Action required depends upon the type(s) of fault(s).

NOTE: Faults 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are common faults and
may indicate the following:
· CC or FD configured incorrectly for carrier acquisition
· Carrier not present
If the above faults are present, please verify carrier
status and configuration before contacting ComStream
for support.
H-10 Rev. F 08/95

AUDIO OUTPUT
PROBLEMS
Verify the audio is not

muted. (See commands M0,
M1, and MU.)
Verify audio is enabled. No Check with the uplink

(Refer to the AS operator for proper
command.) authorization.
Yes
Verify connector integrity and

cabling connections at the Audio
Out port.
Test the right and left

channel outputs using the
AT command.
If audio is still not present,

contact ComStream for
technical support.
Rev. F 08/95 H-11

AUDIO
DISTORTION
PROBLEMS
Yes Problem may be low signal

Signal light off or strength. Follow the
blinking? procedure for when the
Signal light is on.
No
Check external connections to

the audio output port for shorts
or intermittent connections.
(See note below.)
If the problem persists, contact

ComStream for technical
support.
NOTE:
If audio output feeds several pieces of equipment,
disconnect the equipment and monitor the audio
at the connector. If the problem disappears, then a
wiring problem to the external equipment exists, or
operate the equipment via a distribution amplifier.
H-12 Rev. F 08/95

AUDIO NOISE
PROBLEMS
If operating in joint stereo mode, check

with both the uplink and downlink to verify
proper left and right audio channel polarity
and phase.
If the problem persists,

contact ComStream for
technical support.
Rev. F 08/95 H-13

AUDIO LOW PROBLEMS
Ensure the connections at the uplink and

downlink are correct for both signal
polarities (+ and -). When operating with
a single connection (e.g., + only) the
ouput level is 6 dB down when compared
to balanced operation.
H-14 Rev. F 08/95

DATA
PROBLEMS
Verify data is enabled using the FD and

FS commands.
No Check with the uplink
NOTE: If the current format definition, as
operator for proper
selected by the FS parameter, does not
authorization.
have a 2, 3, 6, or 7 as the last digit, then
data is not enabled.
Yes
Verify the interface cable and

connector integrity. Data port
pinouts are listed in Appendix A.
Verify external DTE equipment

and data port configuration
parameters match. (See P1
command.)
Generate test data

internally with command
X1 1.
Turn off the test by

Data output? Yes entering X1 0 and contact
the uplink operator to
verify data transmission.
No
Try connecting another type of

DTE, such as a video terminal. If
data is still not available, contact
Rev. F 08/95 H-15

RELAY
PROBLEMS
Verify the relays are enabled using the

FD and FS commands.
No Check with the uplink
NOTE: If the current format definition, as
operator for proper
selected by the FS parameter, does not
authorization.
have a 4, 5, 6, or 7 as the last digit, then
the relays are not enabled.
Yes
Enter command
CO ?
Ensure proper connections are

Does Yes
made to the Relay/Control port
CO = XXXXXXXX?
and the cable is properly
wired.
No
If any X is replaced by a 1 or 0,
the uplink will not be able to Use the built-in relay test
control the relays. (CO command).
Enter CO XXXXXXXX so that
the uplink can control relays.
Contact ComStream for

technical support.
H-16 Rev. F 08/95

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ABR200

Audio Broadcast Receiver

Installation and Operation Guide

COMSTREAM A Spar Company

© Copyright 1995 ComStream, A Spar Company

Warranty Statement .................................................................................................. xvi

Return Procedure ..................................................................................................... xvii

Revision History ..................................................................................................... xviii

Customer Support ................................................................................................... xviii

Satellite Digital Audio Distribution Network Overview .......................................... 1-2

ABR200 Overview.................................................................................................... 1-4

Chapter 2: Functional Description and Theory of Operation

Functional Description.............................................................................................. 2-2

Theory of Operation.................................................................................................. 2-6

ABR200 Carrier Acquisition .................................................................................. 2-16

Rev. F 08/95 iii

Chapter 3: Quick Installation

Quick Installation Procedure .....................................................................................3-1

Chapter 4: Full Installation and Startup

Installation Overview ................................................................................................4-1

Planning the Site........................................................................................................4-1

Installing and Aligning the Antenna .........................................................................4-2

Installing the IFL Cable.............................................................................................4-2

Installing the ABR200...............................................................................................4-3

External Connections ................................................................................................4-4

Starting Up the System............................................................................................4-14

Startup Problems .....................................................................................................4-16

Using the DAC400 and ABR200 in Baseband Mode .............................................4-18

Chapter 5: Remote Monitor and Control Operation

Command Syntax ......................................................................................................5-1

Password Protection ..................................................................................................5-2

Command Error Codes ..............................................................................................5-3

Command Groups ..................................................................................................... 5-3

Command Descriptions in Alphabetical Order....................................................... 5-10

Chapter 6: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Performance Monitoring........................................................................................... 6-1

Fault Condition Descriptions .................................................................................... 6-3

Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................ 6-6

Chapter 7: Technical Specifications and Port Information

L-band Demodulator (Indoor Unit [IDU])................................................................ 7-1

Audio Performance ................................................................................................... 7-2

Mechanical (IDU) ..................................................................................................... 7-4

Control Channel Interface Capabilities .................................................................... 7-4

Monitor and Control Capabilities ............................................................................. 7-5

Rear Panel Ports........................................................................................................ 7-5

Appendix A: Interface Pinouts

Relay Control Port ................................................................................................... A-2

M&C Port................................................................................................................. A-3

M&C Port Adapter Cable (DB-9-to-DB-25)............................................................A-3

Analog Output Port ..................................................................................................A-4

Auxiliary Port ...........................................................................................................A-5

Appendix B: Telephone Modem Operation

Modem Configuration ..............................................................................................B-1

Modem Connection ..................................................................................................B-2

Appendix C: Interfacility Link (IFL) Cable Characteristics and Preparation

Cable Specifications/Vendors ..................................................................................C-2

IFL Cable Preparation ..............................................................................................C-5

Appendix D: Antenna Installation (Prodelin)

Antenna Assembly ...................................................................................................D-3