Chapter 4. Physical Description; Introduction; Front Panel - Comtech EF Data CDM-600 Installation And Operation Manual

4.1

Introduction

The CDM-600 is constructed as a 1U high rack-mount chassis, which can be free-
standing. Rack handles at the front ease removal from and placement into a rack. Figure
4-1 shows the front panel of the modem.
4.2

Front Panel

The front panel contains the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD), keypad, and eight LED
indicators. The user enters data via the keypad, and messages are displayed on the VFD.
The LEDs indicate, in a summary fashion, the status of the unit.
The VFD is an active display showing 2 lines of 40 characters each. It produces a blue
light with adjustable brightness. Viewing characteristics are superior to a Liquid Crystal
Display (LCD), and do not suffer problems of viewing angle or contrast.
The keypad comprises six individual keyswitches, mounted directly behind a fully sealed
membrane overlay. They have a positive 'click' action, which provides tactile feedback.
These six switches are identified as [↑], [↓], [→], [←] arrows, ENTER and CLEAR. The
functions of these keys are described in the 'Front Panel Operation' section.
There are 8 LEDs on the front panel. The behavior of these LEDs is also described in the
'Front Panel Operation' section.
Chapter 4. PHYSICAL
DESCRIPTION
Figure 4-1. Front Panel
4–1