Do you have a question about the FlexStar and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers
Jim Koenig
February 12, 2025
intermittent power drop out. looses power out Within 5 10 minutes comes back on xmtr plate voltage stays on, but no drive.. Harris flexar exciter
1 comments:
Mr. Anderson
February 12, 2025
Intermittent power dropouts in a Harris FlexStar exciter, with the transmitter plate voltage staying on but no drive, could be caused by several factors:
1. CAN Bus Communication Issues – If the exciter and Boost Pro (if present) are not communicating properly over the CAN bus, it could disrupt the drive signal. Verify the CAN COMM status in the Boost Pro’s submenu; it should read "OK."
2. Software Issues – The system relies on software for proper operation. Check for software updates and apply them if needed, especially if new equipment has been added or system changes have been made.
3. Fault Conditions – If a fault has been triggered, the system may have entered a protective state. Reset the Fault Strike Status by typing "f" in the system interface.
4. Cable and Connector Problems – Loose or faulty cables and connectors can cause intermittent signal loss. Inspect and secure all data and power connections.
5. Surge Protection Issues – If AC surge protection or grounding is compromised, it could cause power inconsistencies. Check the surge suppression system, especially at the beginning of the lightning season.
6. Factory Defaults Reset Needed – If improper settings are causing instability, resetting to factory defaults by typing "e" may resolve the issue.
By checking these potential causes, the issue of intermittent power dropout with no drive can be diagnosed and resolved.
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HARRIS Service Parts Department. Telephone 217/222-8200 to contact the service parts department or address correspondence to Service Parts Department, HARRIS CORPORATION, Broadcast Systems Division, P.O. Box 4290, Quincy, Illinois 62305-4290, USA. The HARRIS factory may also be contacted through a FAX facility (217/221-7096). NOTE: The # symbol used in the parts list means used with (e.g.
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Manual Revision History FM HD Radio System REV. DATE Pages Affected Preliminary 2/03/2006 Created 2/28/2007 P35719 Released 4/18/11 888-2587-001 MRH-1 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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888-2587-001 4/18/11 MRH-2 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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• In the ten digit part numbers, if the last three numbers are 000, the item is a part that Harris has pur- chased and has not manufactured or modified. If the last three numbers are other than 000, the item is either manufactured by Harris or is purchased from a vendor and modified for use in the Harris product.
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The installation, operation, maintenance and service of this equipment involves risks both to personnel and equipment, and must be performed only by qualified personnel exercising due care. HARRIS CORPORATION shall not be responsible for injury or damage resulting from improper procedures or from the use of improperly trained or inexperienced personnel performing such tasks.
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WHILE IT IS HOT DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY OF A CASE RUPTURE AND SUBSE- QUENT INJURY. 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FIRST-AID Personnel engaged in the installation, operation, maintenance or servicing of this equipment are urged to become familiar with first-aid theory and practices. The following information is not intended to be complete first-aid procedures, it is a brief and is only to be used as a reference. It is the duty of all personnel using the equipment to be prepared to give adequate Emergency First Aid and there by prevent avoidable loss of life.
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10 THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE INSTALLING HD SYSTEMS Have you completed a site survey to determine if any site changes are required? o On-line type UPS for Exciter, Audio Processors, Ethernet, STL, Remote Control, etc o AC mains service panel size and OSHA considerations. o Remote control capacity and configuration o Room lighting o Work surface...
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Have you attended a formal training seminar on IBOC theory? o Understanding Digital delivery o Understanding the equipment o Understanding the spectral use Visit our Harris Service web site for more tips on HD Radio installation, measurements, performance and maintenance. 4/18/11 888-2587-001...
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888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
1.2.1 HDx Exciter The FlexStar™ HDx is a versatile exciter. The Exciter has a high power (55 watt) main RF output and a low level (10 mw) Aux. RF output. The inputs and outputs are used defined through the touch screen menus. When driven with an Exporter, the outputs can be configured for FM, HD, FM+HD depending on transmitter configuration.
1.2.3 HDI-100 Importer The FlexStar™ HDI-100 Importer is required for any Supplemental Program Services (SPS). It accepts, manages, encodes and multiplexes all Advanced Application Services (AAS) including supplemental audio channels and program associated data (PAD) for transport to the HDE-100 Exporter or to an existing DEXSTAR Exciter. It also manages system bandwidth allocation.
Below are some terms associated with the FlexStar™ HD Radio architecture. Customer LAN/WAN vs. Dedicated Ethernet - Subnetting and using a router can be used to keep all non-HD Ethernet traffic away from the FlexStar equipment. AAS - Advanced Applications Service. Non-program related data services encoded into the HD bitstream and include Supplemental Audio, traffic information, news, weather, stock quotes, etc.
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Ethernet traffic has multiple HD radio data sources on one segment. An example would be an Importer, PAD source and monitor applications all competing for access to an Exporter that is feeding an Exciter (HDx-FM Flexstar Exciter) over an STL. MPS - Main Program Service. The stations main program audio delivered from the station’s on-air studio.
Split Level Combining (SLC) - A Harris exclusive method of developing a hybrid IBOC signal using a combination of separate amplification and common amplification.
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FM HD Radio System Section 1 Introduction/Specifications Connection Manager: The Connection Manager is responsible for managing the connections from the various service providers. It authenticates service providers and delivers the specific information regarding the Contracts and Services for each service provider.
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Section 1 Introduction/Specifications FM HD Radio System Monitoring API: The Monitoring API allows real-time monitoring of the EOC. It provides a standard way for client applications to monitor EOC activity and configuration details about the EOC. It provides an interface for viewing EOC configuration, service provider connections, services sent, throughput and application functionality.
FM HD Radio System Section 1 Introduction/Specifications Basic FlexStar System Description The FlexStar portion of the system may include one or more of the following devices depending on the studio, STL, and site configuration: • HDI-100 Importer • HDE-100 Exporter •...
Section 1 Introduction/Specifications FM HD Radio System Basic RF System Description An HD System may include one or more of the following devices depending on the hardware configuration, combining mode, and desired potential modes of operation: • HD transmitter with Controller •...
FM HD Radio System Section 1 Introduction/Specifications 1.5.2 Boost Pro Amplifier For multi-cabinet transmitter systems, such as ZD (dual cabinets), separate mode and SLC systems, the Boost Pro is used to increase the gain of the ALT RF OUT output of the HDx-FM exciter to appropriate levels for the IPA stage of a 2nd cabinet or 2nd transmitter.
Section 1 Introduction/Specifications FM HD Radio System connected to the digital transmitter’s output. The 2nd port is the output to the antenna, but also the return path of the analog signal being imposed upon the digital. A 50 Ohm resistive load is attached to the 3rd and final port to absorb the analog return signal. A circulator may be used to improve isolation between the HD and FM transmitter’s PAs particularly when separate combining using an auxiliary antenna for the digital signal, or dual-feed or interleaved antenna types.
FM HD Radio System Section 1 Introduction/Specifications grounding systems and technique must be used in and around the facility, and lightning protection must be in place for any type of signal entering or leaving the facility. 1.6.1 ZHD+ Transmitter Features •...
Section 1 Introduction/Specifications FM HD Radio System General IBOC Information There are several methods of combining the analog (FM) and digital (HD) RF to create an IBOC signal, and there may be up to four possible modes of operation - also known as Modulation Format - that may be used in a typical IBOC system including a backup mode.
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FM HD Radio System Section 1 Introduction/Specifications 1-14 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
2.2.3 Factory Test Data For Harris equipment, locate and retain the FACTORY TEST DATA. During installation and initial turn on procedures, reference may be made to FACTORY TEST DATA. This data is normally packed in an envelope and may be inserted in the technical manual, or may be packed with the Transmitter.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2.2.4 Weight and Dimensions Where necessary, refer to shipping containers and the corresponding documentation for the weight and dimensions of heavy and/or large system equipment. 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-1 Cable Layout 4/18/11 888-2587-001 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On System Site Considerations CAUTION: ALL CONNECTIONS REFERRED TO IN THIS INSTALLATION PROCEDURE SHOULD BE VERIFIED USING THE SCHEMATICS SUPPLIED WITH THE TRANSMITTER. THE SCHEMATICS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED THE MOST ACCURATE IN CASE OF A DISCREPANCY. To facilitate proper installation and initial checkout, all applicable technical documentation should be carefully studied to obtain a thorough understanding of the principles of operation, circuitry, nomenclature, and performance characteristics for...
FM HD Radio System 2.3.2 Boost Pro Installation The Boost Pro amplifier is used in the FlexStar HDX HD+ systems. If retrofitting an existing ZHD transmitter to HD+, the IP2D precorrector will be replaced by the FlexStar BoostPro amplifier. 2.3.3...
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2.3.4.3 Signal Lightning Protection All signals entering or exiting the transmitter site building must be protected against lightning. 2.3.5 Multiple Cabinet Interconnections For multiple cabinet transmitter systems, there may be up to three typical signal paths that need to be connected between cabinets.
Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System 2.3.9 Ethernet/Data Connections All ethernet cables connected should be shielded twisted pair (STP) category 5 (Cat 5) cable or better. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Initial Turn On CAUTION: ANY REMOTE OR EXTENDED CONTROL CONNECTIONS SHOULD BE CONNECTED ONLY AFTER THE TRANSMITTER SYSTEM IS CHECKED OUT AND FULLY OPERATIONAL. NOTE: The HDx-FM exciter will not generate HD carriers unless one of the two fol- lowing conditions is met: •...
FM to HD power ratio for use with a split level combiner. If SLC operation is desired with a ZX transmitter, please contact Harris for information on the necessary modifications and adjustments.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Start with both transmitters turned off STEP 1 Verify: STEP 2 • "SLC FM" mode is selected (HDx-FM: Output Setup: page 2/4) • HD Injection levels are correct (HDx-FM: Output Setup) •...
Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Grounding Basics The importance of a good grounding system and lightning protection can hardly be overemphasized for reasons of personnel safety, protection of the equipment, and equipment performance. The following is only a brief overview. Lightning and transient energy via the power line or tower connections can impose serious threats to your personal safety as well as damage the equipment.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Component requirements for MPS service Listed here will be brief descriptions of typical components that may be in the MPS chain in your station. Brief but specific requirements of each component will be discussed to help you evaluate your equipment for compatibility.
Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System 2.6.4.1 MAIN Delay IN (for analog carriers) The Main analog FM Program source called "host" AES audio, is connected to rear panel Main Delay IN connector and comes from your main program source. This AES audio can be 32kHz to 96kHz.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2.6.5 When selecting an STL, the minimum requirements for the STL, it has to pass 32 kHz AES audio and 192Kbps UDP. Future systems with expanded HD capability will need to pass 300 kBs UPD only.
Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Canare 110 ohm to 75 ohm transformer, Harris part number CANBCJ-XJ-TRB may be required to interface between the Exciter and the processor. 2.7.4 HDI-100 Importer The AES audio into the Importer should be 44.1kHz and synchronized to the Exporter.
FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On System Level Configuration Drawings These drawings are to assist you in connecting the various configurations, some have subtle differences between them. Locate the one that closely fits your situation. In the lower right hand corner of each drawing are two configuration numbers.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-2 Low Level amplification with FlexStar 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-17 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-3 Low Level amplification with dual FlexStar 2-18 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-4 Low-Level with single exciter and Digit backup 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-19 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-5 Low-Level with single exciter and single Boost Pro 2-20 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-6 Low-Level with dual exciter and dual Boost Pro. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-21 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-7 Low-Level with single exciter and single Boost Pro, Digit back-up. 2-22 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-8 High-Level with single exciter. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-23 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-9 High-Level with single exciter and single Boost Pro. 2-24 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-10 High-Level with dual exciters. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-25 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-11 High-Level with dual exciter and single Boost Pro. 2-26 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-12 High-Level with dual exciter and dual Boost Pro. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-27 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-13 High-Level with single exciter and single Boost Pro, Digit back-up. 2-28 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-14 High-Level with single exciter and single Boost Pro. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-29 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-15 High-Level with single exciter and dual Boost Pro. 2-30 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-16 High-Level with dual exciter and dual Boost Pro. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-31 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-17 High-Level with Dual exciters and dual Boost Pro. 2-32 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-18 High-Level with single exciter and dual Boost Pro, Digit back-up. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-33 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-19 Split-level with single exciter and Boost Pro. 2-34 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-20 Split-Level with dual exciter, single Boost Pro. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-35 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-21 Split Level with dual exciter and dual Boost Pro. 2-36 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-22 Split-Level with single exciter and Boost Pro, Digit back-up. 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-37 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-23 Single exciter with dual Boost Pro 2-38 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-24 Split-Level with dual exciter and dual Boost Pro 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-39 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On Figure 2-25 Split-Level with single exciter and dual Boost Pro, Digit back-up. 2-40 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System Figure 2-26 Split-level with dual exciters and Boost Pro 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-41 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2-42 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-43 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2-44 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On FM HD Radio System 4/18/11 888-2587-001 2-45 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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FM HD Radio System Section 2 Installation & Initial Turn-On 2-46 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
Operation Introduction This section contains typical operational procedures and information pertaining to the function of the FlexStar™ System. All of the information in this section assumes every pertinent piece of equipment is in proper working order. NOTE: This section outlines basic operation of the transmitter "system". Refer to the spe- cific technical manual, of the system device to be operated, for detailed informa- tion.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation NOTE: The HDx-FM Exciter can be connected to an external UPS to mainmain power during short power bumps eliminating the 5 second turn-on time. • Pressing the HIGH button will turn transmitter on at 100% TPO (or previously set high power level) •...
PA volts, and PA amps. MODE LEDS: A bank of three LEDs to indicate the transmitter operating mode: FM, FM+HD, or HD. The operating mode is determined by the Flexstar exciter and is communicated through the exciter interface cable.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation • REV PWR FLDBK = excessive reverse power at an individual PA output (accompa- nied by red LED above PA module) or transmitter output (otherwise) • PA CURRENT FLDBK = excessive current in one or more PA modules, typically caused by excessive drive level.
Section 3 Operation FM HD Radio System Normal Operation It is important that the operator be aware of normal transmitter operation and performance, and note any changes or fault indications. Changes in operation may indicate a need for maintenance or corrective action before more serious problems develop.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation FlexStar™ System should now be outputting nominal RF power, and all indications normal. 3.5.3 Transmitter Turn Off The following steps describe the procedure to turn the ZHD+ transmitter off at the end of a broadcast period. This method assures that all units are properly shut down.
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Section 3 Operation FM HD Radio System Figure 3-1 Boost Pro GUI Menu Structure 4/18/11 888-2587-001 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation Emergency Operation In the unlikely event of a transmitter system malfunction, the transmitter’s front panel LEDs and diagnostic display, and the front panel LEDs and GUI displays on the HDx- FM exciter and Boost Pro should quickly assist the technician in determining a probable cause.
Section 3 Operation FM HD Radio System corresponding menu where the fault is indicated. Refer to the corresponding documentation for explanations of fault indications for the HDx-FM. 3.6.3 Platinum ZHD+ Emergency Response 3.6.3.1 FAULT LED Illuminated For the all ZHD+ transmitters, if the Fault LED is continuously lit it is an indication of a currently active fault.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation The operator may refer to the transmitter technical manual, Section 3, for specific details on how to view and clear the Foldback fault-related description in the Diagnostic Display’s fault log. If more troubleshooting is necessary, a technician can refer to Section 6 of that manual for detailed fault explanations.
Section 3 Operation FM HD Radio System in the ZX2000 and ZX3500 models. The transmitter automatically lowers its power to reduce stress on the internal combiner reject loads. This is referred to as the TEMP REDUCTION mode and is indicated by an open collector on the parallel remote interface, or via the optional WEB Remote interface.
FM HD Radio System Section 3 Operation 3.6.5 Boost Pro Response 3.6.5.1 FAULT LED Illuminated The Boost Pro front panel LED will turn red if a fault condition is detected. Press INFO, then FAULT SUBMENU to view a listing of statuses where the malfunction would be indicated by the word FAULT.
+45dB to the RF signal. Finally, the display interfaces with the control via SPI bus. The same amplifier used in the FlexStar™ Exciter is used in the Boost Amplifier. The Controller monitors the power amplifier and relays information to the various connectors.
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FM HD Radio System Section 4 Boost Pro Theory of Figure 4-1 Boost Pro Block Diagram 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
Section 4 Boost Pro Theory of FM HD Radio System One of the requirements of the Boost Amplifier is to have adjustable phase for aligning multiple cabinets. For this reason, the controller board features a 90° hybrid in a voltage controlled phase shifter circuit.
FM HD Radio System Section 4 Boost Pro Theory of 4.2.2 A to D Converter For monitoring the power amplifier, a 12-bit eight channel analog-to-digital converter is used: TLV2548 from Texas Instruments. This converter is used to monitor the PA’s forward power, reflected power, voltage, current, and temperature.
Section 5 Maintenance and Alignments Introduction This section provides maintenance and alignment information, for the purpose of routine maintenance, and replacement of various components for the ZHD+ series of transmitter systems. Alignments See corresponding documentation for specific details of alignment procedures. 5.2.1 Split-Level Combined systems SLC systems should periodically be checked for best (lowest) reject power.
Software Every piece of the FlexStar product line either has software or is affected by the software in the rest of the system. Harris offers significant software updates on the Harris Premier web site. Check for applicable updates periodically; especially when new equipment is added to your system or changes are made to your system.
Section 6 Troubleshooting Introduction This section is to be used by the service technician to go beyond the steps provided in the Emergency Operation section (in Chapter 3) to troubleshoot a System-level malfunction. Use this along with corresponding documents for detailed circuit understanding and diagnosis.
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE TRANSMITTER WITH DOORS, SHIELDS OR PANELS REMOVED. Diagnostics A wealth of information is obtainable via the ZHD+ transmitter’s front panel LEDs and Diagnostic display, and the HDx-FM front panel LEDs and GUI to help discern the cause of a malfunction or failure of the transmitter system.
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System PA TEMP: 90°C threshold exceeded - Fault off. PA CURR: 6.4A threshold exceeded - Fault off. PA OVER V: 28.8V (120% Nominal voltage) Threshold exceeded - Fault off. PA UNDER V: 19.2V (80% Nominal voltage) Threshold exceeded - Fault off. 6.2.1.2 Other Faults for the Boost Pro FAN TACH: FAN tachometer indicates a low speed, or no operation fan condition -...
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System Schematics, Wiring and Block Diagrams The following Harris schematic and signal name conventions apply: • Active Low = "/" - A signal name preceded by the forward slash is an active low. Example: /TEMP_FAULT means the Temp Fault signal is active when at a low state (also known as TEMP_FAULT ’not’, or TEMP_FAULT ’bar’).
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System Boost Pro VT100 For all meter readings and programming including and beyond the front panel abilities, the VT100 is the emulation method used to interface a computer with the Boost Pro amplifier. Any parameter accessable on the front panel GUI can also be viewed and modified via VT100.
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System Press the "Enter" key to store that entry STEP 3 • EXAMPLE: To change the Forward Power Range of Power Level 4 to 2800W; on page 2 of the VT100 screens, type "4", then use your key- board’s up or down arrow keys to reach 2800.
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Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System Figure 6-1 VT100 - Page 1 ID: The unit’s CAN bus ID. DIP Sw/Rev: The value currently on S1 is shown here. LED’s: The value of the LEDs, on DS11 thru DS18. OPERATIONAL STATUS: RF On: (ON/OFF) Status of the RF output, when “ON”...
Flexstar Frequency: Current frequency of HDx-FM exciter. This is information obtained via the CAN bus from the HDx-FM exciter. Check Exciter Flexstar Sum Fault: (OK/FAULT) FAULT if there is a fault condition in the exciter. This information is obtained via the CAN bus from the Flexstar exciter. Check Excitery Exciter Ready: (YES/NO) Status of operational state of exciter.
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Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System Figure 6-2 VT100 - Page 2 CONFIGURE & SETTINGS: (1) Modulation: (FM/FM-HD/HD) This will change the bias mode of the PA module. (2) Operation Mode: (BOOST AMP/STAND ALONE TX) The difference between the boost amp and the stand alone are limits on power and reflected power. (3) TX Type: (MINI-HD/QUEST/Z_4_6_8_HD/Z_12_16_HD/Z_HD_DUAL/ Z_2_CD/ Z_3_5_CD/Z_7_10_CD/Z_CD_DUAL/LP_HT/MP_HT/HT_20_25/ HT_30_35_B/ HT_30_35_A/HTD_60_70/PT_2_4_5/PT_8_10/CUSTOMIZED).
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System settings so that they can be adjusted. The state of this lock is given next to the title “CONFIGURE & SETTINGS” (LOCK) or (UNLOCK). CAUTION: UNLOCKING, AND THEN MODIFYING THESE CONFIGURATION SETTINGS INCORRECTLY COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE BOOST PRO AND/OR ANY DOWNSTREAM EQUIPMENT (TRANSMITTERS, COMBINERS, REJECT LOADS, ANTENNAS, ETC.).
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System 6.4.5 VT100 - Page 4 Remote Output/Remote Input: The information displayed on this page is the digital data the micro-module is receiving and send- ing. Figure 6-4 VT100 - Page 4 6.4.6 VT100 - Page 5 Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-Analog Converters: The information on the left side of the screen is data coming from an external analog-to- digital converter.
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Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System 6-12 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System HD Troubleshooting 6.5.1 No or Corrupt HD Output The HDx-FM exciter will not generate HD carriers unless one of the two following condtions is met: • The HDx-FM is properly connected to, and configured for the HDE-100 Exporter and the HD Carriers are ENABLED (this is the recommended method) - or -...
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Section 6 Troubleshooting FM HD Radio System 6-14 888-2587-001 4/18/11 WARNING: Disconnect primary power prior to servicing.
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Do you have a question about the FlexStar and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers
intermittent power drop out. looses power out Within 5 10 minutes comes back on xmtr plate voltage stays on, but no drive.. Harris flexar exciter
Intermittent power dropouts in a Harris FlexStar exciter, with the transmitter plate voltage staying on but no drive, could be caused by several factors:
1. CAN Bus Communication Issues – If the exciter and Boost Pro (if present) are not communicating properly over the CAN bus, it could disrupt the drive signal. Verify the CAN COMM status in the Boost Pro’s submenu; it should read "OK."
2. Software Issues – The system relies on software for proper operation. Check for software updates and apply them if needed, especially if new equipment has been added or system changes have been made.
3. Fault Conditions – If a fault has been triggered, the system may have entered a protective state. Reset the Fault Strike Status by typing "f" in the system interface.
4. Cable and Connector Problems – Loose or faulty cables and connectors can cause intermittent signal loss. Inspect and secure all data and power connections.
5. Surge Protection Issues – If AC surge protection or grounding is compromised, it could cause power inconsistencies. Check the surge suppression system, especially at the beginning of the lightning season.
6. Factory Defaults Reset Needed – If improper settings are causing instability, resetting to factory defaults by typing "e" may resolve the issue.
By checking these potential causes, the issue of intermittent power dropout with no drive can be diagnosed and resolved.
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