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Nautel NX Series Operation And Maintenance

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Document: NHB-NX400-OPS
Issue:
2.0 2020-09-09
Status:
Standard

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Summary of Contents for Nautel NX Series

  • Page 1 Document: NHB-NX400-OPS Issue: 2.0 2020-09-09 Status: Standard...
  • Page 3 The comparisons and other information provided in this document have been prepared in good faith based on publicly available information. The reader is encouraged to consult the respective manufacturer's most recent published data for verification. © Copyright 2020 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.
  • Page 9 Issue Date Reason 2020-09-09 Second release of manual; supports hardware NARA67A and software version NX SW 4.9.1.
  • Page 11 This section provides a high-level description of the transmitter’s key sections. The transmitter circuitry is subdivided into five basic stages. • Ac-Dc Power Stage • Exciter Stage - see page 1-4 • Control/Monitor Stage - see page 1-7 • RF Power Stage - see page 1-8 •...
  • Page 12 See electrical schematics through . The ac/dc power supply stage contains the input power transformer that receives the main ac input to the transmitter. It also contains the transmitter’s low voltage power supplies and rack interface PWB. The ac/dc power supply stage also includes a three- phase SCR rectifier assembly, B+ current sensor, B+ distribution assemblies, capacitor tray assembly and arc detector assembly.
  • Page 13 The rack interface PWB provides various functions for the ac-dc power stage, including: • Monitors the B+ voltage and regulates the SCR rectifier’s output via the B+ level control signal applied to the rectifier’s SCR control board. • Monitors the SCR rectifier’s fan speeds, temperature and phase loss indication as well as the B+ current sample and provides this information, along with data received over a serial bus from the RF power modules, to the transmitter controller.
  • Page 14 Figure 1.1 and electrical schematic . The exciter stage consists of digital AM exciter PWBs A (A11A2) and B (A11A3), RF drive distribution PWB (A13), and PDM distribution PWB (A14). The dual digital AM exciter PWBs provide two independent exciter sections (A and B), which can be selected automatically or by local or remote control.
  • Page 15 The digital PDM component consists of six phased PDM signals, each separated by 60 electrical degrees. These PDM drive signals determine the transmitter output power level as well as the output modulation level. Three of these phases, each separated by 120 electrical degrees (e.g., 1, 4 and 7), are applied to a given RF power module.
  • Page 16 The exciter stage interfaces with the transmitter controller to perform other functions, including: • Provides an RF Drive Latch signal to the transmitter controller to inhibit the RF drive for a set period of time during specific alarm/fault conditions. • Provides a PM Enable signal for the RF power modules to monitor the PDM cable status.
  • Page 17 See electrical schematic The control/monitor stage monitors critical signal samples and status/alarm signals from the exciter stage, RF power stage, and ac/dc power stage. It also provides customer interfaces for monitoring transmitter status and accepts customer inputs for distribution to other system components.
  • Page 18 A 17-inch, colour LCD screen along with the Single Board Computer mounted on the front of the control cabinet provides an advanced user interface (AUI) for the transmitter. The AUI can be controlled by touch screen and is also available via the Ethernet connection on the SBC, through a web browser on any web-interfaced PC or handheld device.
  • Page 19 See electrical schematic Figure 1.2 on page 1-9. The combined RF output is filtered through an RF network consisting of two “T” networks with a shunt third harmonic trap, and then provided to the antenna system. The RF output is monitored by an RF current probe, RF voltage probe, and directional coupler.
  • Page 20 The transmitter uses an advanced DSP based VSWR protection system. Circuitry in the RF output network (see Figure 1.2 on page 1-9) samples the RF voltage and RF current at the input to the harmonic filter. These current (I) and voltage (V) samples are applied to ADCs on the digital AM exciter PWBs.
  • Page 21 Shutbacks can be caused by the following alarms: SWR Shutback (exciter), Fast SWR Shutback (controller), Over-Current Shutback (exciter), Over-Voltage Shutback (exciter) and Arc Shutback (controller). • During a single shutback event (see Figure 1.3), the transmitter reduces the output power to 0 W, and remains in that state for 100 ms.
  • Page 22 A cutback occurs after multiple shutback events. When three shutback events occur within a 15 s period, the shutback accumulator exceeds its threshold. The transmitter responds by limiting the output power to 85% of the previous power set point or the power at which the shutback event occurred, whichever is lower.
  • Page 23 If the average reflected power, calculated over a nominal 5 s period, exceeds a limit of 4% of rated power, the output power is gradually reduced in order to maintain a reflected power that is less than this limit. This gradual reduction in power into high VSWR allows the transmitter to continue to operate into VSWR levels as high as 1.5:1 at full carrier power and even higher VSWR levels when the carrier power is reduced.
  • Page 25 +12V POWER +12V SUPPLY TRANSFORMED AC B+ CHARGE DISCHARGE B+ (A) AC MAINS TRANSFORMER SCR RECTIFIER RECTIFIED AC CURRENT RECTIFIED AC RELAY DISTRIBUTION SENSOR B+ (B) FILTER AC POWER INDICATOR TACH (FAN 1 & 2) +15V +48V (FAN 1 & 2) -15V +30V B+ CURRENT SAMPLE...
  • Page 27 FAN TACHS FAN TRAY +48V (A) 20 kW RF POWER BLOCK (1 OF 20) SERIAL BUS (PM) +15V (RF) +48V (B) +15V FAN TACHS B+ (A) TO/FROM SERIAL BUS POWER B+ (B) AC/DC MODULE 1 RF OUTPUT 1 FAN TRAY TACH A & B SUPPLY 1 +5V (RF) PART OF...
  • Page 29 This section provides information about operating the NX400 transmitter: • Using the AUI - see page 2-2 • Home page - describing the first page - see page 2-18 • Menu page - describing transmitter operations on page 2-19 • Viewing Transmitter Log - see page 2-21 •...
  • Page 30 The NX400 has an advanced user interface (AUI) that is displayed on a 17-inch, colour LCD screen mounted on the front of the control cabinet (see Figure 2.1). The AUI is controlled locally by a touch screen or remotely using a PC and a web browser. This section includes the following topics: •...
  • Page 31 Information is displayed in a series of pages (screens) that serve specific transmitter functions. The AUI has the following configurable displays: • Instrumentation panels (See “Instrument Panels - viewing displays” on page 28.) • Real-time meters (See “Meters page - viewing real-time meters” on page 43.) •...
  • Page 32 • In the field, enter the password. Default is blank. : The Nautel AUI is factory configured with a default login username and password. Nautel recommends that you change the password to improve overall system security. See See “Changing the password”...
  • Page 33 SNMP Configuration PDM Settings Critical Parameters Time Setup System Settings Reset NTP Servers (see page 2-94) Upgrade Software Nautel Phone Home Exciter Clock Calibration Call Sign/ID RF Monitor Level Remote I/O Power Lockout Inputs (see page 2-122) Power Thresholds Outputs...
  • Page 35 Figure 2.3: AUI Login Menu IP Address and login messages Software version Access the AUI locally as follows: The transmitter’s front panel touch screen allows viewing of the AUI pages, regardless of the login status, but you must log in and have the proper permission level to access functions that can alter transmitter control settings.
  • Page 36 The AUI begins with the Home page (Figure 2.4) and all navigation starts from this screen. Figure 2.4: Home Page Forward Power Active Preset Selected Scheduler Meters Reflected Power Mode TOP BANNER Same items in all windows TASK AREA Displays various panels and pages Instrument panels...
  • Page 37 • Transmitter : Displays information about the active preset (transmission mode, frequency, set point, forward power and reflected power). Press (bottom panel) to open the page and edit this information (See “Presets - editing operational settings” Presets on page 49.). The current setpoint can be edited directly by pressing in this area. •...
  • Page 38 Email Configuration Notifications SNMP Configuration Critical Parameters Nautel Phone Home Call Sign/ID NOTE: Time Setup and NTP control are not available when remote is disabled because of the scheduler; changing the time can affect the current on-air preset The “task area” displays the AUI functions such as transmitter status and hardware settings: •...
  • Page 39 You navigate through the AUI screens from the Home page or from the Menu page (Figure 2.5). Home page is the first screen to appear when you login into the AUI. You can return to this page from any AUI screen by pressing the logo (upper left corner) or by selecting page is accessed from the “bottom panel”...
  • Page 40 Table 2.2 identifies the available AUI pages. AUI Page Function See Page Home (first page) Displays an overview of transmitter features, including page 2-8 various meters and instrument panels. Choose options and navigate to other pages. (available via local or remote operation) Menu Choose options and navigate to other pages.
  • Page 41 AUI Page Function See Page Instrument Panels Choose the instrument panel option(s). 16 options are page 2-28 available. Up to four screens can appear on one page. (available via local or remote operation) System Review Choose meters for display. page 2-43 (Meters) (available via local or remote operation)
  • Page 42 AUI Page Function See Page Scheduler Create and edit scheduler rules. page 2-64 (available via local operation or remote operation) Transmitter Status View transmitter’s active faults. page 2-69 (available via local or remote operation) User Accounts Set user permission rights and define user accounts. page 2-71 (available via local or remote operation)
  • Page 43 AUI Page Function See Page User Settings Set network information, configure email and alarm page 2-76 notification parameters, configure Exgine interface information, configure SNMP information, capture (available via local or critical parameters, set time and date, enable/ remote operation) configure NTP servers and set call sign/ID.. System Settings Reboot AUI or active exciter, perform software page 2-94...
  • Page 44 AUI Page Function See Page Precorrection Settings Control various critical parameter functions using the page 2-103 Precorrection page (available via local or remote operation) Changeovers Set the main exciter and auto changeover functions. page 2-112 (available via local or remote operation) Factory Settings Displays the settings for the transmitter that are set at page 2-113...
  • Page 45 AUI Page Function See Page Audio Player Manage the audio playlist files. page 2-127 (available via local or remote operation)
  • Page 46 Home page (Figure 2.6) is the first screen to appear after you log into the AUI. It contains the images that were last viewed in the AUI, from the previous login session. You can return to the page, from any screen, by pressing the logo in the upper, left corner or Home by pressing Figure 2.6: Home page example...
  • Page 47 Menu page displays icons that link to pages that control various transmitter operations (Figure 2.7). Press Menu in the “bottom panel” of an AUI screen to open this window of options. Figure 2.7: Menu Page From this page, you can select the following operations: •...
  • Page 48 • Press to control various critical functions related to precorrec- Precorrection Settings tion, (See “Precorrection Settings page” on page 103.). • Press to access a page that displays a list of users with access to the AUI User Accounts and, depending on permission level, allows you to access user accounts (See “User Accounts”...
  • Page 49 You can view the NX400’s events log using the Log page - see Figure 2.8. This page shows a configurable log of all transmitter events. To view the page, click the button in the bottom banner of the AUI screen. Figure 2.8: Log page Selects item at top of current page...
  • Page 50 The number of log matches displayed is shown below the button (e.g., 157 Matches Sorted by Time of Event). You can scroll through the list using the scroll bar or the up and down arrow buttons to the right of the scroll bar. When there are more than 100 matches in the list, a tab will appear to allow viewing of further listings.
  • Page 51 Figure 2.9: Log Manager options (Filter Logs shown) You can filter transmitter events based on their origin or date by clicking the button in Filter Logs the log manager (see Figure 2.9). Click the drop-down arrow, and select the desired device type to filter events based on the type selected.
  • Page 52 You can create a copy of all the logs in the selected list (copied to the remote user’s computer clipboard) by clicking on the button in the log manager (see Figure 2.10). You can paste Copy Logs the tab-delimited text copy of the logs into a text editing program such as Word, Excel, Notepad, etc. Click Cancel to close this window.
  • Page 53 You can delete all events or a selection of events by clicking on the button in the log manager Delete (see Figure 2.11 on page 2-25). Click the checkbox and click to delete all events. Click the checkbox to allow deletion of events that occurred prior to ( user-specified date and time.
  • Page 54 You can view statistical information on the events being displayed by clicking on the Statistics button in the log manager (see Figure 2.12). The screen groups similar events that Statistics occurred within the filtered period as well as the time and date of the earliest and latest event occurrence for each event type.
  • Page 55 Click on the button in the (see Figure 2.13) to display a legend that describes Legend Log Manager the meaning of the symbols shown in the columns of the page. Click to close this window. Cancel Figure 2.13: Log Manager - Legend...
  • Page 56 The central area of the Home page displays up to four panels of instrument information. You can choose which panels to display from 12 possible information panels (Figure 2.14). Figure 2.14: Instrument Panel Options To view the instrument panel options, close an existing panel by pressing (upper-right corner) and then press the “cog”...
  • Page 57 Table 2.2: Tool Menu Panels Tool Description See Page Spectrum Displays a spectrum analyzer, capable of monitoring the page 2-30 transmitter’s RF output spectrum and the spectrum of the signal generated by the exciter. EQ Frequency Displays the frequency response of the exciter’s EQ filter. page 2-32 Response EQ Impulse...
  • Page 58 Figure 2.15: Spectrum Analyzer Minimize Cursor Cursor Peak (Maximize) Left Right Close Figure 2.15. The carrier level is normalized to its unmodulated level at 0 dB. The graph center is always at the carrier frequency, as defined by the Exciter’s set Frequency value.
  • Page 59 Use the left and right buttons to make fine adjustments. Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the panel size. Use the “peak” button to place the cursor on the next successive peak (moving left to right) in the spectrum.
  • Page 60 The NX400’s exciter includes a fixed equalizer to optimize audio performance. There are three menus available in the tool menu panels - (see Figure 2.17), (see Figure 2.18 on page 2-33) and (see Figure 2.19 on page 2- 34). Coefficients are selected based on your channel frequency. All frequencies shown are relative to the channel frequency.
  • Page 61 Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the panel size. Figure 2.18: EQ Impulse Response Figure 2.18. This panel displays the impulse response of the modulator’s EQ filter. Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (filter tap # and magnitude) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel.
  • Page 62 Figure 2.19: EQ Filter Delay Figure 2.19. This panel displays the delay of the modulator’s EQ filter across its bandwidth. Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (frequency and delay) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel. Touch in other areas of the tool menu panel to provide a coarse adjustment of the cursor position.
  • Page 63 The exciter linearizes the transmitter’s magnitude (envelope) path and drive signal by using two correction parameters - (see Figure 2.20) and (see Figure 2.21 on page 2-36), which can be viewed as tool menu panels. Figure 2.20: AM-AM Correction This panel displays the amplitude correction being applied to the magnitude signal.
  • Page 64 Figure 2.21: AM-PM Correction This panel displays the phase correction being applied to the RF drive signal. The x-axis represents the signal amplitude and the y-axis represents the phase shift correction applied for a given amplitude value. Touch on the panel to display a cursor in the approximate area. The cursor position (LUT index and phase) is noted in the upper, right-hand corner of the panel.
  • Page 65 Figure 2.22: Signal Constellation Figure 2.22. In IBOC mode only, the exciter constantly measures the transmitter signal and performs basic demodulation of the digital carriers. The panel displays the phase and amplitude of the symbols being modulated within an OFDM sub-carrier as dots on a cartesian graph.
  • Page 66 Figure 2.23: Lissajous Plot L and R mode I and Q mode Figure 2.23. This panel displays a Lissajous figure that represents either L (left) and R (right) audio content or a representation of the digital modulation signal [I (in-phase) and Q (quadrature)].
  • Page 67 Figure 2.24: Smith Chart Cursor Cursor Zoom Minimize Left Right (Maximize) Zoom Close Figure 2.24. The Smith Chart allows you to visualize the impedance of the transmitter’s load as seen at the combiner, as a function of frequency. The impedance shown on the Smith Chart is normalized to the combiner input impedance.
  • Page 68 Use the up or down button to maximize (if it was minimized) or minimize (if it was maximized) the panel size. Figure 2.25: Modulation Levels Figure 2.25. Bar graphs display the percentage of L+R modulation, PDM (magnitude) and I/Q modulation for the transmitter. I/Q bar graphs will show levels in DRM or IBOC mode only.
  • Page 69 Figure 2.26: Audio Inputs Figure 2.26. Bar graphs display the amplitude (in dB) of the audio inputs selected in the preset. The level shown in yellow represents the currently measured peak amplitude, with the RMS level shown in green. An actual RMS value is displayed below the meter). The red markers represent the most recently recorded peak level.
  • Page 70 Figure 2.27: Power Distribution Graph Cursor Cursor Minimize Left Right (Maximize) Close Figure 2.27. The exciter measures the relative power levels of the signal and determines the probability of exceeding a given power level, relative to the average power. The data is plotted in the as a CCDF (complementary cumulative distribution function).
  • Page 71 The AUI displays many metered parameters on the Home page (right side) (Figure 2.28). This section includes the following topics: • “Describing the meter display” • “Accessing meter information” on page 2-44 • “Saving meter list” on page 2-48 Figure 2.28: Meters Page Information Buttons Save...
  • Page 72 • To delete a meter from the Home page, press the in the left-hand corner of the meter in the “Meters” window (right side). • To review all the meter options, press the information button (magnifying glass) at the top of the meters panel (Figure 2.29).
  • Page 73 2. To view the summary screen of each device type: Under “Transmitter Layout”, press the information button ( ) adjacent a device type (Figure 2.30 on page 2-45, Figure 2.31 on page 2-46, Figure 2.32 on page 2-46 Figure 2.33 on page 2-47 ).
  • Page 74 Figure 2.31: Meters - Information Display for the Exciter Figure 2.32: Meters - Information Display for Rack 1...
  • Page 75 Figure 2.33: Meters - Information Display for Modules - Rack 1 * PM 1-10 shown Press to view Press to view previous ten modules next ten modules Power modules are numbered (e.g., PM1, PM2, etc.) in the order they are plugged in, which is not necessarily the same as their physical location in the transmitter.
  • Page 76 Meter lists are associated with user accounts. Lists saved in this screen are only displayed in the current user account. Setting a list as default will define the meters that will appear when logging into the current account (or after an ac power interruption in the local AUI if this is the default user account).
  • Page 77 Presets page (see Figure 2.35) allows you to view operational data (power level, frequency, mode, program input characteristics), plus create and control preset settings. You can create up to 61 presets or edit existing presets. To view the page, select in the page.
  • Page 78 For example: Output Power - Valid values: 0.000kW to 55.000kW In the block in the AUI’s top banner, click the bar that contains the active preset name and the drop-down arrow (see Figure 2.36). The window will appear, which contains a list of all preset options.
  • Page 79 To edit a saved preset, you must load that preset from the page (see “Loading Presets” on Presets page 2-51). If the edited preset was active before it was edited, saving the preset will update the preset, but the will not change. To update the operation of the transmitter, re- activate the preset through the top banner (see “Activating Presets”...
  • Page 80 Presets page consists of tabs across the top with functions on the left-side and parameters displayed in the center and right-side of the window. A separate display appears for each of the following tabs: General (Figure 2.35 on page 2-49) •...
  • Page 81 Available settings on the tabs are shown/hidden based on the setting. Not all settings are available in all modes. Analog Settings (Figure 2.37 on page 2-56) • AM Source • Format Filter Type - • NRSC-1 Preemphasis - • Dynamic Carrier Control - •...
  • Page 82 AMSS - • AES Input Level - • Balanced Analog Input Level - • Digital Settings (Figure 2.38 on page 2-56 through Figure 2.41 on page 2-57) For DRM and DRM+AM modes: Data Source - • AES input Level - •...
  • Page 83 For IBOC and IBOC+AM modes: IBOC Service Mode - • Enhanced Carriers - • Upper Primary Level Adjust - • Lower Primary Level Adjust - • Analog Gain - • Digital Carriers - • Analog Bandwidth - • Analog Transmission - •...
  • Page 84 Figure 2.37: Presets - Analog Settings Figure 2.38: Presets - Digital Settings (Overall Mode = DRM) Figure 2.39: Presets - Digital Settings (Overall Mode = DRM+AM)
  • Page 85 Figure 2.40: Presets - Digital Settings (Overall Mode = IBOC) Figure 2.41: Presets - Digital Settings (Overall Mode = IBOC+AM) Figure 2.42: Presets Tabs - Audio Loss...
  • Page 86 The following examples shows you how to set presets for the IBOC applications with typical values: 1. Enter Output Power field with desired power level. 2. Set Overall Mode IBOC 3. Under • IBOC Service Mode to MA-1 (Hybrid) • to Low Enhanced Carriers •...
  • Page 87 1. Set two presets similar to the two previous examples. 2. Under , set Mod Loss Timeout Enabled . Several other selectable fields will appear. 3. In the Action field, select Change Preset from the drop-down list. The Mod Loss Preset field will appear.
  • Page 88 The NX400 is capable of several DCC modes (see “Editing or Creating Presets” on page 2-50), each with varying performance in terms of energy savings and effects on the reproduced signal. The selectable options are: • AMC (see Figure 2.43) •...
  • Page 89 Figure 2.44: EAMC Figure 2.45: Basic DAM...
  • Page 90 Figure 2.46: Full DAM Figure 2.47: DCC1...
  • Page 91 Observe the following guidelines when selecting the DCC mode for your application. AMC mode (see Figure 2.43 on page 2-60) should work well for most broadcasters and is generally recommended if you have an IBOC transmission. It has several advantages over the other modes: •...
  • Page 92 If the scheduler is enabled (see “Enabling the Scheduler” on page 2-68), you can program a yearly preset schedule for the transmitter. Use the Scheduler page (see Figure 2.48) to set the dates and times at which presets take effect. You can define up to 63 scheduler rules. To view the Scheduler page, select from the...
  • Page 93 The left-hand side of the page displays a monthly calendar (e.g., April 2015). Use the Scheduler buttons to navigate between one week intervals. Use the | and buttons to navigate between four week intervals. The Month/Year display shows the month and year that is currently present in the top week of the Calendar Display.
  • Page 94 Use the window as follows: • In the section, set the start (From:) and end (To:) dates for the rule. Start to end dates must be less than one year apart. Rules are automatically repeated every 365 days (366 days in a leap year) such that schedules are the same year-to-year. Therefore, a single rule cannot span more than 365 days (366 days in a leap year).
  • Page 95 The following examples illustrate how to interpret the programming of a rule: From Date: March 3 To Date: April 7 Days: SUNDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY checked, all others unchecked. From Time: 6:15:00 To Time: 00:00:00 Repeat: 00:00:00 Self Delete: UNCHECKED Preset: Preset 1 Translation: Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday between March 3 and April 7 of...
  • Page 96 You can enable or disable the scheduler by clicking the Scheduler button in the section (see Figure 2.50). Figure 2.50: Enabling/disabling the scheduler Top banner of the AUI Scheduler field (toggles Off/On) When appears in green, the transmitter will follow the settings.
  • Page 97 You can view the operational status of the transmitter using the Status Page (see Figure 2.51). This page shows current active alarms to aid in fault diagnosis. This section includes the following topics: • “Viewing alarm details” on page 2-70 •...
  • Page 98 Transmitter Status page displays a table that lists the active alarm details under the following columns: • - identifies the alarms by their originating device (e.g., Controller, Exciter A, etc.) Device • - identifies the type of alarm (alarm name). Alarm •...
  • Page 99 User Accounts page allows you to set up user accounts and assign different levels of access to the transmitter control operations (see Figure 2.53). Any user may change their password, but only may add users and edit permissions. You access the page from the page in the bottom panel of the AUI.
  • Page 100 Figure 2.54: User Accounts Page Layout Administrator Full Control View Only Auto Login Custom Users Permissions You assign a user type to identify the permissions available to that user. All users have permission to change their own username and password (see Figure 2.54) but there are other realms of permission.
  • Page 101 You must be an Administrator to use this function. Procedure to add a user (see Figure 2.54 on page 2-72): 1. Open the page. User Accounts 2. Press (bottom of the screen) to open a small window. 3. Beside Username , enter a name that identifies the new user, and press 4.
  • Page 102 You must be an Administrator to edit this function. All users have permission to change their own username and password (see Figure 2.54). You can customize the permissions assigned to a user or simply pick a predetermined set of permissions based on the user type.
  • Page 103 You must be an Administrator to edit this function. This setting defines which account will be automatically entered on the local AUI. If no account is set for Auto Login , the login screen will appear when the local AUI boots. Remote users always require a login. There can only be one account that is set for Auto Login Procedure to change your auto login status (see...

  • Page 104: Table Of Contents

    “Exgine Network Settings” on page 2-83 • “SNMP Configuration” on page 2-85 • “Critical Parameters” on page 2-87 • “Time Setup” on page 2-88 • “NTP Servers” on page 2-90 • “Nautel Phone Home” on page 2-92 • “Setting call sign/ID” on page 2-93...
  • Page 105 Network Setup page (see Figure 2.55) allows you configure parameters for connecting the AUI to your network. Modify network settings as follows: Figure 2.56: User Settings - Setting up the Network 1. Open the page by pressing in the page. User Settings Home 2.
  • Page 106 Subnet Mask - • Default Gateway - • Default Nameserver - • Alternate Nameserver- • Port Number - • If the transmitter is connected to the Internet via a firewall, and remote access is required, the port number for external incoming connections that are to be routed to the transmitter MUST be the same as the port number that the transmitter listens to on the internal network.

  • Page 107: Setting Up The Network

    Email Configuration page (see Figure 2.57) allows you to configure email parameters (e.g., server name and port number). Figure 2.57: User Settings - Configuring Email Procedure to configure emails: 1. Open the page by pressing in the page. User Settings Home 2.
  • Page 108 • - Enter the information that will identify the senders and receivers of Port Number messages. Typically, this is set to 25 for SNMP systems. • Transmitter Name - Enter an identification for the transmitter/station (e.g., NX300_WXYZ). This name will be included in notification emails. •...

  • Page 109: Email Configuration

    feature (see Figure 2.58) provides a means for the transmitter to issue emails or texts (SMS messages) triggered by user defined alarm events. If you use this feature, you must also configure an email (see “Email Configuration” on page 2-79). Figure 2.58: Notifications To configure the notifications feature, perform the following steps: 1.
  • Page 110 3. When complete click the button to accept changes or the button to discard changes and return to the page. Figure 2.59: Notifications Adding/Updating...
  • Page 111 2-84) allows you to configure IP information for use with the Exgine option. Nautel recommends that the following network settings be entered/vetted by a qualified Network Administrator. If parameters are changed and the AUI is reset, record the new values to ensure you can log in after changes have been made.
  • Page 112 Figure 2.60: User Settings - Exgine Settings...
  • Page 113 The SNMP configuration page provides a user with a means to configure the SNMP agent and to enable and configure associated traps (see Figure 2.61). Figure 2.61: User Settings - SNMP Configuration Configure the SNMP agent as follows: 1. Enter the first five fields, noting the following: •...
  • Page 114 2. Click the check box to allow the SNMP agent to send trap notifications. and to Enable Traps display two additional fields associated with traps. Enter the two additional fields as follows: • Trap Receiver IP : Enter the IP address of the computer to which the SNMP agent will send trap notifications.
  • Page 115 This feature is available through the remote AUI only. You can capture critical parameter data for the transmitter’s current state using the AUI’s page (see Figure 2.62). To view this page, select from the page. From this page, you can click (reads all meter values), (reads all active alarms), (reads current preset) and...

  • Page 116: Time Setup

    There is an internal clock on the transmitter that has a backup battery and maintains the accurate time and date even during power outages. The Time Setup page contains editable fields for the date (month, day and year) and time (hours, minutes, and seconds), which is shown on the main screen of the AUI and used for stamping log entries.
  • Page 117 2. Enter the following Time and Date parameters and press Apply • Time - enter the hour (24-hour clock), minutes (up to 60), and seconds (up to 60). • Date - select values from the drop-down menus beside Day, Month, and Year. 3.
  • Page 118 The accuracy of the NTP synchronization is related to the distance to the server. For this reason, Nautel recommends that you choose servers in the same country as the equipment. If this is not possible, attempt to get servers from the same continent.
  • Page 119 section displays tabular information on the NTP servers connected to the network. The table includes remote name, IP address, delay, offset and jitter. • Displays the host name of the referenced time source. An asterisk (*) in the first column marks the reference time source that is currently preferred by the NTP daemon.

  • Page 120: Nautel Phone Home

    This data includes logs, alarms and meter readings which are then stored in a database and can be analyzed by Nautel staff if an alarm is reported by the transmitter. Since all data is pushed out to Nautel by the transmitter to the cloud, there is no need to reconfigure your firewall and potentially compromise your transmitters security.
  • Page 121 The Call Sign/ID screen (see Figure 2.66) can be used to set a name that can be used to identify the transmitter on the AUI. This identification will be displayed on the top banner of the AUI page (e.g., “WABC”). Enter the call sign or ID in the field and press (maximum 15 characters in length).
  • Page 122 You determine critical system configuration parameters using the System Settings page (see Figure 2.67), which you access from the page. This section includes the following topics: • “Reboot” on page 2-95 • “Upgrade software” on page 2-97 • “Screen configuration” on page 2-96 (available on front panel AUI only) •...

  • Page 123: Reboot

    Reboot page (see Figure 2.68) allows you to reboot two items - the AUI and the active exciter. Figure 2.68: System Settings - Reboot Procedure to reboot the AUI or Exciter: 1. Select the option from the left side of the page to open a related Reboot System Settings...
  • Page 124 Screen Configuration page (see Figure 2.69), available on the local AUI only, allows you to perform a calibration on the touchscreen and to configure a screen saver for the local AUI. Figure 2.69: System Settings - Screen Configuration (local AUI only) Procedure to calibrate the touchscreen: 1.

  • Page 125: Upgrade Software

    Upgrade Software page allows for uploading software upgrade files for various transmitter components (e.g., System Controller, AUI, etc). Navigate the page as described below. For more detailed information, see “Upgrading software” on page 4-1 of this manual. Figure 2.70: System Settings - Upgrade Software Select from the left side of the page to open a related window...

  • Page 126: Exciter Clock Calibration

    The exciter clock may also be synchronized to a reference source, either an external 10 MHz reference connected to A11A1J8 or a Nautel optional GPS sync PWB or a combiner, as applicable. The Combiner source option is applicable for combined systems only. The exciter reference will lock to the external source frequency within 10 mHz (0.01 Hz) using the 10 MHz sync input, to within 2...
  • Page 127 Procedure to synchronize the exciter clock: 1. Select the option from the left side of the Exciter Clock Calibration System Settings page to open a related window on the right side of the page. 2. Connect a source (10 MHz input or GPS sync). 3.

  • Page 128: Rf Monitor Level

    RF Monitor Level page allows you to set values for the (in dB) (see Figure 2.72) on the amplifier that drives the output. The RF monitor is factory set to provide a level of 5 V rms into 50 ohm (27 dBm). value is shown for reference.

  • Page 129: Power Lockout

    Power Lockout page (see Figure 2.74) allows you to set a high power limit for the transmitter. There is provision to set up to eight different limits (which can be used to accommodate daytime/ night-time patterns or different antennae), but only the selected limit is active. You can also select a high power limit using a digital remote input (see Remote inputs on page 2-123).

  • Page 130: Power Thresholds

    Power Thresholds page (see Figure 2.74) allows you to set two distinct low forward power thresholds the transmitter. These thresholds are for monitoring purposes only. The transmitter will not shut back if these thresholds are crossed, but alarm notifications are generated for each of the two thresholds ( ) on the Low Forward Power Threshold 1...
  • Page 131 You control various critical parameter functions using the Precorrection page (see Figure 2.75), which you access from the Menu page. These settings will normally be generated at the factory, based on the desired modes of operation, and should not require user adjustment. This section includes the following topics: •...

  • Page 132: Mag-Phase Delay

    Mag-Phase Delay page (see Figure 2.76) allows for setting the difference in delay between the magnitude (PDM) path and phase (RF drive) path in the exciter. Changing this delay can help to level out and minimize spectral regrowth, providing improved spectral performance and increased margin under the mask.
  • Page 133 B+ Setpoint page (see Figure 2.77) allows you to identify the (nominally 400 V). This value does not normally require user adjustment. Figure 2.77: Precorrection - B+ setpoint...

  • Page 134: Am-Am Correction

    AM-AM Correction page (see Figure 2.78) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-AM correction curves. You can Load Delete curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When you select Capture , the AM-AM Correction window is displayed. Press Done to capture the curve, type a name for the curve, then press...

  • Page 135: Am-Pm Correction

    AM-PM Correction page (see Figure 2.79) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-PM correction curves. You can Delete curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When you select Capture , the AM-PM Correction instrument panel is displayed. Press Done to capture the curve, type a name for the curve, then press...

  • Page 136: Envelope Equalization

    Envelope Equalization page (see Figure 2.80) allows you to load or capture a set of envelope equalization curves. You can Load Delete curves in the list; you can also capture a curve. When you select Capture , the EQ Frequency Response window is displayed. Press Done to capture the curve, type a name for the curve, then press...

  • Page 137: Configurations

    Configurations page (see Figure 2.81) allows users to group the parameters that appear within the Precorrection Settings menu. Figure 2.81: Precorrection - Configurations Edit button appears for local users in Local mode or for remote users in Remote mode. View button appears otherwise (cannot edit in this case).
  • Page 138 2. Any existing configurations (e.g., Default Config 1610 kHz) will appear in the list. The active configuration, if applicable, is highlighted in green. You can view or edit existing configurations by pressing , if available. You can also create a new configuration by Edit pressing or remove a configuration by pressing...
  • Page 139 Exciter Synchronization page (see Figure 2.82) displays correction curve and configuration settings stored on each exciter and allows users to synchronize the settings between exciters A and B. When AM-AM correction, AM-PM correction and EQ curves and configurations are created, they are stored in the active exciter.
  • Page 140 Changeover page (see Figure 2.83), accessed from the Menu page, allows control of exciter auto-changeover. Figure 2.83: Changeover Page On this page, set the following exciter information: • - indicates the exciter that is currently active. Active Exciter • - indicates (in green) which exciter is considered to be the primary exciter. Main Exciter Select .
  • Page 141 Values for critical parameters are set using the Factory Settings page (see Figure 2.84), which you access from the page. To use this page, simply select an item from the list on the left-side of the page to open related information on the right side of the page. This section includes the following topics: •...
  • Page 142 Audio Inputs page (see Figure 2.85) displays the measured level of the Balanced Analog source (in dBm). The balanced calibration field allows for establishing a reference from a known source. Figure 2.85: Factory Settings - Audio Inputs...
  • Page 143 B+ Calibration page (see Figure 2.86) displays the measured B+ levels, the B+ Limit Setpoint (high voltage alarm level; nominally 420 V) and a calibration box. The calibration value allows you to enter a measured voltage to calibrate the B+ based on an externally measured B+ voltage. Figure 2.86: Factory Settings - B+ Calibration...
  • Page 144 PA impedance (magnitude and phase), the test load impedance and the measured RF current. Nautel sets these values at the factory. Value changes are not typically required unless you are performing a frequency change.
  • Page 145 RF Symmetry page (see Figure 2.88) allows entering RF symmetry values for exciter A or B to attempt to minimize second harmonic content when operating on each exciter. Values are factory set and should not require adjustment. Figure 2.88: Factory Settings - RF Symmetry...
  • Page 146 page (see Figure 2.89) displays the threshold values for SWR Thresholds . The peak reflected scale value has an associated calibration routine, which is initiated using the button. Value changes and calibrations are not typically required. Figure 2.89: Factory Settings - SWR Thresholds Attempting to the peak routine will display the following...
  • Page 147 Transmitter Type page (see Figure 2.90) displays the selected transmitter type. The selection is based on the power capacity of the transmitter and is set at the factory during testing. Figure 2.90: Factory Settings - Transmitter Type...
  • Page 148 Transmitter Frequency page (see Figure 2.91) displays the precise carrier frequency of the transmitter. Do not change the carrier frequency unless you are performing a frequency change procedure. Figure 2.91: Factory Settings - Transmitter Frequency...
  • Page 149 PDM Settings page (see Figure 2.92) displays the selected PDM settings. The selection is based on the PDM configuration of the transmitter and is set at the factory during product testing. may be required after replacing or moving RF power modules. See the of the NX400 Troubleshooting Manual “Optimizing RF power module Performance”...
  • Page 150 Remote I/O page (see Figure 2.93), accessible from the Menu page, allows you to configure your remote input/output interface for the transmitter. Click X in the upper, right corner to close this page and return to the home page. Refer also to the NX400 Pre-installation Manual for information on remote inputs and outputs and their factory default settings.
  • Page 151 . That setting can only be selected by a local user Remote using the front panel AUI. Nautel sets remote input defaults prior to shipping. See the NX400 Pre-installation Manual for details. If necessary, re-configure the remote inputs as follows: Figure 2.94: Remote I/O Input Parameters...
  • Page 152 • - enables (on)/disables (off) the automatic mode scheduler. • - selects the associated power lockout limit (1 - 8) as active (func- tions regardless of local/remote mode). : If multiple inputs are activated simultane- ously, the lockout of least power will be activated. •...
  • Page 153 Nautel sets remote output defaults prior to shipping. See the NX400 Pre-installation Manual for details. If necessary, re-configure the remote outputs as follows: Figure 2.95: Remote I/O - Output Parameters...
  • Page 154 • - Active logic level indicates that exciter A is selected as the main exciter. Inac- Main Exciter tive logic level indicates that exciter B is selected as the main exciter. • - Active logic level indicates that the automatic mode scheduler is enabled Scheduler On/Off or disabled.
  • Page 155 The built-in audio player (see Figure 2.96) can use a file playlist, Livewire or Icecast as an audio source. These sources must be configured before they can be used. This section describes how to configure audio player sources. To view the page, select from the Audio Player...
  • Page 156 The playlist (or Icecast/Livewire stream) is typically used as an audio loss backup. For example, the user may operate with Preset 1 using one of the standard audio sources. Preset 1 can be configured to switch to another preset (e.g., Preset 2), which uses a playlist or stream, if Preset 1 loses its audio. Playlist/stream presets can also be activated by the Scheduler (see “Preset Scheduler”...
  • Page 157 Figure 2.97: Managing Playlist files Remote mode only...
  • Page 158 The NX400 is capable of playing audio streams in either Shoutcast or Icecast format. Livewire is not supported in the NX series transmitters. The optional NX USB Audio kit (Nautel part # 207-3350) must be purchased if USB Audio functionality is to be used.
  • Page 159 Shoutcast source locally. Direct Icecast connections are supported, just like Shoutcast with the same MP3 decoder specs and limitations mentioned earlier. Icecast can deliver a number of codecs but Nautel only supports MP3.
  • Page 160 Figure 2.100: Example of XSPF Content The following audio file formats are not supported: • Opus, AAC, AAC+, FLAC, Ogg or other codecs • AES x192 • Ravenna Livewire • Wheatnet 1. From the tab (see Figure 2.101 on page 2-133), click the button.
  • Page 161 1. From the tab (see Figure 2.101 on page 2-133), select the desired audio stream from the list. Click the button to modify the audio stream or the button to remove the audio stream. 2. If you are editing an audio stream, enter the appropriate information for the audio server (Name and URL for Shoutcast/Icecast).
  • Page 162 The NX400 high power transmitter is equipped with a key controlled interlock system (Figure 2.102 on page 2-137) to ensure operator safety. The transmitter’s rear doors must be closed and locked, and the antenna ground switch must be disengaged, before ac power to the transmitter can be turned on. Similarly, ac power must be turned off and the antenna ground switch engaged (grounding the RF output of the transmitter) before any of the access panels in the transmitter that prevent access to areas with dangerous voltages can be opened.
  • Page 163 4. Access Lock Keys (quantity 8): required to open access panels throughout the transmitter system. Access panels must be closed and locked to release the access lock keys. Spare keys may be provided if required. Ensure they are kept in a secured location. Procedure to gain access to the inside of the transmitter (see Figure 2.102 on page 2-137):...
  • Page 164 5. Insert the into the ac disconnect switch (see “Operation rules:” on page 2-136) and turn the key clockwise. Move the ac disconnect switch or the ac power entrance’s breaker to the position. Operation rules: • With ac disconnect switch in the “closed” (ON) position, the cannot be removed from the lock.
  • Page 165 Figure 2.102: Key Sequence Diagram NOTE: Reverse steps taken in the key sequence to re-apply ac power to the NX400. Step 1 AC POWER ENTRANCE key cannot be removed from the ac disconnect switch until the handle is turned to the OFF position.
  • Page 167 Rinse the filters with water, spray both sides of each filter with Handi- Koter filter coat (Nautel Part # HQ59, located in the ancillary kit), re-install the air filters, then re-install the top brackets. If an air filter is damaged, replace it as soon as possible. See “Replacing an air filter”...
  • Page 168 Take the following steps to replace an NX400 air filter: 1. Order a new filter, as necessary. You can order a standard sized filter from Nautel (Nautel Part # HR111) or from the manufacturer (Research Products, EZ Kleen filter #...
  • Page 169 2. Order new filter coat spray, if necessary. You can order replacement filter coat from Nautel (Nautel Part # HQ59) or from the manufacturer (Research Products Handi-Koter adhesive spray bottle # 412) or obtain it from any local supplier of HVAC supplies.
  • Page 170 Figure 3.1: Replacing the Air Filter Partial Rear View Unscrew the 3 M4 fasteners to remove the top bracket, then slide the air filter up and NOTE: out. Air flow direction is back to front Brackets (filter behind bracket) Single-cabinet transmitter shown. For multi-cabinet transmitters, repeat installation for each cabinet.
  • Page 171 You should check the on-air quality of the transmitter’s signal periodically. This check can be done locally at the transmitter site, or remotely from another location in the transmitter’s coverage area. Every 12 months, or as required by law. • High-quality receiver compatible with the modulation scheme used on the transmitter.
  • Page 172 The battery should be replaced while ac power is applied to the transmitter. Every 12 months. Replacement battery. 3 V lithium coin cell, 20 mm (Nautel recommends Panasonic Part # CR2032). Perform the following steps to replace the battery: 1.
  • Page 173 5. Check for any alarms on the AUI. (See “Status - viewing transmitter status” on page 2-69.) CONTROL/ INTERFACE PWB Battery...
  • Page 174 You should inspect the lightning protection systems that are connected to your NX400 transmitter, ac power, RF feedline, antenna and tower periodically to ensure that your site, equipment and personnel are fully protected. Every 6 months. Depends on your site, but may include a DVM, ladder, binoculars, and continuity tester. Perform the following steps to test the lightning protection systems: 1.
  • Page 175 . Note the current software revision for Audio Player, AUI, Controller, Exciter, Rack and PM. 2. Using a web browser go to ftp://www3.nautel.com/NX_Series/ and verify your software version is the latest. If necessary, download the latest *.tgz file to a laptop or network...
  • Page 176 The following steps assume either the laptop will be used to connect directly to the transmitter OR the transmitter and network computer are currently connected to the same network. 1. From the transmitter AUI, go to 2. Record your current network settings (IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway). 3.
  • Page 177 6. In the Local Area Connection Properties window, select 7. In the Local Area Connection Status window, select 8. Close the Network Connections window. 1. If using a laptop, connect the laptop network interface card to J1 of the SBC’s motherboard (A1U1) on the back of the control cabinet’s front door using a CAT5 Ethernet cable.
  • Page 178 *.tgz file. A replacement compact flash card with pre-loaded software can be purchased from Nautel (part # 207-8707) or you can burn the IMAGE file on the existing compact flash card. Using a web browser go to ftp://www3.nautel.com/NX_Series/...
  • Page 179 A touchscreen calibration is required if a new image file has been burned onto the SSD Drive, the SSD Drive has been replaced, the touchscreen has been replaced, or the pointer is not aligning with touch inputs. To perform a touchscreen calibration, perform the following steps: 1.
  • Page 180 4. Enter and confirm your new password. 5. Record your new password on the Proof of Performance document provided with the transmitter. If you would like Nautel to track your password for support purposes, please email support@nautel.com with your new information.
  • Page 181 This section defines some of the terms that are used in Nautel documentation. Analog to Digital Converter. Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union (AES/EBU) is the name of a digital audio transfer standard. The AES/EBU digital interface is usually implemented using 3-pin XLR connectors (the same type connector used in professional microphones). One cable carries both left and right-channel audio data to the receiving device.
  • Page 182 Nautel’s In-Band-On-Channel signal generator. See IBOC. Required for NX series IBOC installations. Pulse Duration Modulation. A setting that controls power level, active exciter, and power scheduler status on a time-of-day and date basis. Exciters can be configured on a preset for a specific operating mode (for example, Exciter A - conventional AM, and Exciter B - IBOC).
  • Page 184 Document: NHB-NX400-OPS Issue: 2.0 2020-09-09 © Copyright 2020 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

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