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TracVision M5/M7 Control Panel Configuration...
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LNB’s skew angle. No manual adjustment is necessary. TIP: For more information on how skew works, please refer to the TracVision M7 User’s Guide. You Do Not Need to Enter Your Latitude and Longitude.
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FEC Code, and Network ID Update Wizard to upgrade the software Get state? Reset to factory? Next Return Next Return Reset system to factory Current State * ‡ default satellites/brightness * Press any button to return 2005-2008, KVH Industries, Inc. ‡ TracVision M5/M7/M9 only...
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MultiSat Control Panel Configuration User’s Guide This user’s guide provides all of the basic information you need to operate, set up, and troubleshoot the TracVision M5/M7 satellite TV antenna system. For detailed installation information, please refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide.
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TracVision and KVH are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc. The unique light-colored dome with dark contrasting base is a registered trademark of KVH Industries, Inc. DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) is a registered trademark of the DVB Project. DIRECTV is an official trademark of DIRECTV, Inc.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Table of Contents Table of Contents Introduction Using this Manual ................3 System Overview................5 Circular and Linear Versions..............8 Operation Receiving Satellite TV Signals ............13 Turning the System On/Off ..............14 Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites (Circular Versions) ................15 Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites (Linear Versions)................21...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Table of Contents Settings (Continued) European Tri-Sat Mode Setup............48 Linear Dual-Sat Mode Setup............50 Selecting Automatic or Manual Satellite Switching......53 Resetting to Factory Default Settings ..........54 Restarting the TracVision System............55 Troubleshooting Five Simple Checks................59 Troubleshooting Matrix ..............60 Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues........61...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction 1. Introduction This chapter provides a basic overview of this manual and your TracVision system. Contents Using this Manual.............. 3 System Overview............... 5 Circular and Linear Versions..........8...
Chapter 1 - Introduction Using this Manual This manual provides complete operation, setup, and troubleshooting information for your TracVision system, as well as wiring diagrams for various TracVision M5/M7 system configurations. Who Should Use This Manual The user should refer to the “Operation” chapter to learn how to operate the system.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction Typographical Conventions This manual uses the following typographical conventions: Text Example Description Text in brackets or the pound sign (#) indicates a <SAT NAME> variable portion of the MultiSat Control Panel (MCP) display...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction System Overview Your TracVision M5/M7 system is a state-of-the-art, actively stabilized antenna system that delivers live satellite TV to your vessel’s audio/video entertainment system. A basic system is illustrated below. Figure 1-2 TracVision System Diagram (Typical Installation)
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction System Components The TracVision M5/M7 system includes the following components: Antenna Unit The antenna unit houses the antenna positioning mechanism, LNB (low noise block), and control elements within a radome. Weathertight connectors join the power, signal, and control cabling from the belowdecks units.
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Satellite Tracking and Switching Your TracVision M5/M7 system tracks your selected satellites as long as the vessel is located within the selected satellites’ coverage area. During installation, your TracVision system should have been set up to track your desired satellites, allowing you to switch between them quickly and easily.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction Circular and Linear Versions Your TracVision system is configured to receive either circularly polarized satellite signals (e.g., North America) or linearly polarized satellite signals (e.g., Europe or Latin America). Figure 1-3 illustrates the difference between these two polarizations.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 1 - Introduction The correct skew setting varies depending on your geographic location, since the orientation of your antenna to the satellite changes as you move. For example, if your antenna is tracking the PAS 9 satellite for Sky Mexico programming, the ideal skew setting ranges from +30 to +70, depending upon your location within the satellite’s...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation 2. Operation This chapter explains everything you need to know to operate the TracVision system. Contents Receiving Satellite TV Signals ......... 13 Turning the System On/Off ..........14 Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites (Circular Versions) ...........
Equator In addition, since TV satellites are located above the equator, the TracVision antenna must have a clear view of the sky to receive satellite TV signals. Anything that stands between the antenna and the satellite can block the signal, resulting in lost reception. Common causes of blockage include boat masts, trees, buildings, and bridges.
Turning the System On/Off You can turn the system on or off using the switchplate. Turning On the System Follow the steps below to turn on your TracVision system. IMPORTANT! Avoid turning the vessel or changing channels for one minute after turning on the system.
DISH 1000 (Required for TurboHD Service) When the TracVision M5/M7 system is configured for DISH 1000, you can view the DISH HDTV programming for your geographic area. The system can be configured for either DISH 1000/61 or DISH 1000/129 use.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation DISH 1000 Automatic Mode - Preferred for One or Two Receivers The antenna switches between satellites automatically as you change channels using the primary receiver’s remote control. The primary receiver is the receiver connected to RF1 (see Figure 2-6 and Figure 2-7).
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation DISH 1000 Manual Mode - Required for Three or More Receivers Since multiswitches interfere with communications between the receivers and the antenna, the system must be set up in Manual mode when three or more receivers are installed. When Manual mode is enabled, you can switch between your selected satellites using the buttons on the front of the MCP (see Figure 2-8 and Figure 2-9).
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation Dual-Sat Mode - Required for all DISH 500, ExpressVu, DIRECTV, and Custom Dual-Sat Setups Dual-Sat Mode is used with several service configurations. Figure 2-10 lists each Dual-Sat service configuration, the satellites tracked for each service, and available satellite switching modes.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation Dual-Sat Automatic Mode - Preferred Mode for One or Two Receivers* The antenna switches between satellites automatically while you change channels using the primary receiver’s remote control. The primary receiver is the receiver connected to the antenna’s RF1 cable (see Figure 2-11 and Figure 2-12).
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Dual-Sat Manual Mode - Required for Three or More Receivers and All Custom Dual-Sat Setups Circular TracVision M5/M7 systems with three or more receivers require the use of a multiswitch. Since multiswitches interfere with communications between the receivers and the antenna, the system must be set up in Manual mode.
Chapter 2 - Operation Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites (Linear Versions) During installation, your TracVision system should have been set up to track the satellite(s) of your choice and the channel guides for your selected satellite service should have been downloaded.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation Automatic Satellite Switching The TracVision system can switch between satellites automatically as long as the primary receiver is set up for DiSEqC communicatons and a multiswitch is not installed. With DiSEqC set up, the primary receiver sends satellite switching commands to the antenna as necessary when you change channels using the primary receiver’s...
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Chapter 2 - Operation Manual Satellite Switching If the TracVision system includes a multiswitch, you can use the receivers’ remote controls to change channels on the currently selected satellite. If you need to switch satellites, simply use the buttons on the front of the MCP (see Figure 2-17 and Figure 2-18).
TracVision M5/M7 system and explains linear and circular receiver setup requirements. Circular Receiver Compatibility To ensure compatibility with your TracVision M5/M7 system, be sure to use a KVH-validated receiver for your selected service type (see Figure 2-19).
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Chapter 2 - Operation DISH Network/ExpressVu Receiver Configuration If your TracVision M5/M7 system is set up for DISH Network or ExpressVu service, your receiver(s) should have also been configured during installation. In most cases, you do not need to reconfigure your receiver(s).
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 2 - Operation Product Care Please consider the following antenna care guidelines for maintaining peak performance: • Periodically wash the exterior of the antenna dome with fresh water and mild detergent. Avoid harsh cleansers and volatile solvents (such as acetone) and do not spray the dome directly with high-pressure water.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Updating Latitude and Longitude Data Use the flowchart in Figure 3-1 if you wish to update your latitude and longitude data. TIP: For your convenience, you can determine your approximate latitude and longitude using the Position Grids provided in Appendix B on page 75.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Displaying the Calculated Skew Angle Use the flowchart in Figure 3-2 to display the average skew angle for your selected satellites. If just one satellite is configured for tracking, that satellite’s skew angle is displayed.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Adjusting the Skew Angle (Linear Versions) Once you have determined the proper skew angle, follow the steps below to adjust the antenna’s LNB skew angle. TIP: Refer to “Displaying the Calculated Skew Angle” on page 30 to determine the skew angle for the currently selected satellite.
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3. Using a 2 mm allen hex key, loosen the two M4 socket set screws securing the LNB. The location of the screws varies according to TracVision model; refer to Figure 3-4 or Figure 3-5. Figure 3-4 TracVision M5 Set Screws...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings 4a. TracVision M5 Only - Adjust the LNB clockwise or counter-clockwise, until the skew arrow on the LNB points to the skew angle that you determined earlier. Due to label constraints, if the skew angle is greater than +15°, you need to subtract 180 to get the...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings 4b. TracVision M7 Only - Adjust the LNB clockwise or counter-clockwise, until the skew arrow on the LNB points to the skew angle that you determined earlier. IMPORTANT! Be sure to keep the LNB fully inserted in the choke feed to ensure optimum performance.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Setting Sleep Mode When the vessel has come to a stop and holds its position for one minute (e.g., at a dock), the antenna unit enters Sleep Mode, which locks the antenna in place to conserve power. As soon as the vessel moves beyond a 1°...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Setting Instant On When Instant On is enabled, the antenna can immediately receive signals if the vessel has not moved since the antenna was last shut off. However, if the system is turned off, and then the vessel moves after last acquiring the satellite via Instant On, the antenna will undergo its standard initialization process once it is turned back on.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Adjusting Display Brightness You can adjust the brightness of the MCP’s LCD screen to suit your preferences. Use the flowchart in Figure 3-10 if you wish to adjust the display brightness. Figure 3-10 Setting Display Brightness <Default Display>...
Step 1 - Configure the TracVision System Use the flowchart in Figure 3-11 on page 39 to configure the TracVision system for DISH Network service. If you need to configure the system for ExpressVu service, see Figure 3-12 on page 40.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Figure 3-11 Configuring DISH Network <Default Display> Set Lat/Long? Menu Next Return Press - or + to toggle each Install Satellite? Install Satellite? digit to the desired value, then Next Return Next Return press Enter to accept each digit.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Figure 3-12 Configuring ExpressVu <Default Display> IMPORTANT: Choose Auto for Menu configurations if 1 or 2 receivers are connected; choose Manual if 3 or more receivers are connected. Install Satellite? Install Satellite?
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1. Ensure the receiver you wish to configure is connected to the TracVision system’s RF1 cable. 2. Turn on the TV(s) and receiver(s). 3. Using the receiver’s remote, go to the “Point Dish/ Signal Strength”...
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TV screen match those required for your selected satellite TV service. If your values do not match, turn off the TracVision system, then turn it back on and repeat Steps 3-6. Figure 3-15 DISH 1000/61 Expected Check Switch Results on TV Screen...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Figure 3-18 ExpressVu Expected Check Switch Results on TV Screen* Port Satellite Even Even Trans Reception Verified Status SW21 Switch *NOTE: If you installed just one ExpressVu satellite, the TV screen will display an error message instead;...
Chapter 3 - Settings DIRECTV Dual-Sat Mode Setup This section explains how to configure the TracVision system to track the DIRECTV 101 and 119 satellites. Use the flowchart in Figure 3-19 to configure the TracVision system for DIRECTV Dual-Sat Mode. For operation instructions, refer to “Changing Channels and Switching...
“DIRECTV Dual-Sat Mode Setup” on page 44 for more information. NOTE: Be sure to only install satellites that your TracVision M5/M7 system can track in your geographic location. For your convenience, KVH provides links to several websites that offer satellite coverage information. Simply visit...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Figure 3-20 Circular Satellite Library Satellite Satellite Service Installation Name Location AsiaSat 4 122.2° E ASIASAT* 72.0° W DSS_72 101.0° W DSS_101 DIRECTV 110.0° W DSS_110* 119.0° W DSS_119 DIRECTV Latin 95.0° W...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Use the flowchart in Figure 3-21 to configure the TracVision system for your custom pair of satellites (or single satellite). Figure 3-21 Configuring Custom Dual-Sat Mode <Default Display> Install <SAT NAME> Menu...
Thor NOTE: To enable automatic switching, the receiver must be set up to match the TracVision system’s satellite position settings (A, B, or C). Refer to “Linear Receiver Configuration” on page 25 for more information. Step 1 - Configure the European Tri-Sat Group Use the flowchart in Figure 3-23 on page 49 if you need to configure the TracVision system for European Tri-Sat Mode.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Figure 3-23 Configuring European Tri-Sat Mode Set Lat/Long? <Default Display> Next Cancel Menu Latitude: Install Satellite? Install Satellite? Enter Next Return Next Return Press - or + to toggle each Circular or Linear?
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Linear Dual-Sat Mode Setup This section explains how to configure the TracVision system to track any two satellites from the antenna’s linear satellite library (shown in Figure 3-24). For operation instructions, refer to “Changing Channels and Switching Between Satellites (Linear Versions)”...
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Step 1 - Configure the Satellites Use the flowchart in Figure 3-25 to configure the TracVision system for linear Dual-Sat Mode. NOTE: Be sure to record the skew angle (the average skew for both satellites) reported during this procedure.
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Skew Angle (Linear Versions)” on page 31 to adjust the skew angle. NOTE: To enable automatic satellite switching, the receiver must be set up to match the TracVision system’s satellite settings. Refer to “Linear Receiver Configuration” on page 25 for more information.
Chapter 3 - Settings Selecting Automatic or Manual Satellite Switching When your TracVision system was configured, the satellite switching method (automatic or manual) was also selected. However, you can use the flowchart in Figure 3-26 to change the satellite switching method for your selected service, if desired.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Resetting to Factory Default Settings Use the flowchart in Figure 3-27 if you wish to reset the TracVision system to the factory default satellite service (DIRECTV Dual-Sat Mode) and LCD brightness settings.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 3 - Settings Restarting the TracVision System Use the flowchart in Figure 3-28 if you wish to restart the TracVision system. Figure 3-28 Restarting the TracVision System <Default Display> Menu Install Satellite? Next Return Select Next until “Restart Antenna?”...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting 4. Troubleshooting This chapter identifies potential basic problems along with their possible causes and solutions. It also explains how to get technical support. Contents Five Simple Checks ............59 Troubleshooting Matrix............ 60 Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues ....
Five Simple Checks If you are experiencing a problem receiving satellite TV with your TracVision system, perform the five simple checks below. TIP: You can also try resetting the satellite TV receiver. Turn off and unplug the receiver, wait one minute, then plug it back in and turn it back on.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Matrix The troubleshooting matrix in Figure 4-1 identifies potential operational symptoms and their causes and remedies. “Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues” on page 61 contains detailed information on the causes and remedies listed below.
Causes and Remedies for Operational Issues This section addresses the most common operational issues that can affect the performance of the TracVision M5/M7 system. If your TracVision system requires service, you can visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice.
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Figure 4-2 Location and Coverage Area of DIRECTV 101 Satellite Equator Satellite Signal Blocked Since TV satellites are located above the equator, the TracVision antenna must have a clear view of the sky to receive satellite TV signals. Anything that stands between the antenna and the satellite can block the signal, resulting in lost reception.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting Radar Interference The TracVision M5/M7 antenna must be kept out of line with nearby radars, as their energy levels might overload the antenna’s front-end circuits. Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for details, or visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance.
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A loose RF connector can reduce signal quality or prevent automatic satellite switching using the receiver’s remote control. Refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide for complete system wiring information, or visit any KVH-authorized dealer or distributor for assistance. To find a KVH-authorized dealer near you, visit www.kvh.com/wheretogetservice.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting Technical Support The TracVision M5/M7 antenna is a sophisticated electronic device. KVH-authorized technicians have the specialized tools and expertise necessary to diagnose and repair a system fault. Therefore, if you experience any operating problem or require technical assistance, please call or visit your local authorized TracVision dealer or distributor.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Appendix A Advanced Settings and Functions This appendix contains information on advanced settings and functions. This information should only be utilized by KVH-authorized technicians. Contents Manually Control the Antenna ......... 69 Updating Satellite Frequency Data ........
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Manually Controlling the Antenna Use the flowchart in Figure A-1 if you wish to control the antenna manually. NOTE: If you are performing this procedure as part of the satellite frequency scan update procedure, be sure to select “NO”...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Updating Satellite Frequency Data If the antenna is unable to find a satellite, or if you are unable to receive certain channels, the satellite’s frequency data might have changed. The satellite frequency scan feature allows you to update the frequency data of any satellite stored in the system’s library.
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TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions 5. Use the flowchart in Figure A-2 to scan the frequency data of the selected satellites. TIP: If you know the satellite configuration data, you can configure the satellite without scanning frequency data (see “Configuring Satellite Settings”...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Configuring Satellite Settings Use the flowchart in Figure A-3 to configure one of the satellites selected for tracking. TIP: Linear satellites use the following polarization/band combinations: vertical high, vertical low, horizontal high, and horizontal low. Circular satellites use the following polarization/band combinations: right and left.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Displaying Software Version Information Use the flowchart in Figure A-4 if you wish to display software version information. Figure A-4 Displaying Software Version Information <Default Display> Menu Install Satellite? Next Return Select Next until “Operations...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix A - Advanced Settings and Functions Displaying the Antenna Serial Number Use the flowchart in Figure A-5 if you wish to view the antenna serial number. Figure A-5 Displaying Antenna Serial Number <Default Display> Menu...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix B - Position Grids Appendix B Position Grids This appendix contains European and North American position grids for determining your approximate latitude and longitude. Contents European Position Grid ............ 77 North American Position Grid .......... 78...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix B - Position Grids European Position Grid If you wish to determine your approximate latitude and longitude, use the position grid and table in Figure B-1. Figure B-1 Approximate Latitude and Longitude Grid # Latitude Longitude 7°...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix B - Position Grids North American Position Grid If you wish to determine your approximate latitude and longitude, use the position grid and table in Figure B-2. Figure B-2 Approximate Latitude and Longitude Grid #...
Wiring Diagrams This appendix provides receiver wiring diagrams for basic configurations. Wiring diagrams vary according to the number of receivers installed and the TracVision system configuration (circular/ linear and dual/quad-output). For installation instructions, refer to the TracVision M5/M7 Installation Guide.
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix C - Wiring Diagrams Wiring Diagram for One or Two Receivers Antenna Data Power Switchplate + – + – RJ 22 Maintenance Power Terminal Strip +12 VDC Vessel Power Antenna Unit Power In RF Port –...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix C - Wiring Diagrams Wiring Diagram for Three or Four Receivers (Circular Versions)* Antenna Data Power Switchplate + – + – RJ 22 Maintenance Power Terminal Strip +12 VDC Vessel Power Antenna Unit RF Port Power In –...
TracVision M5/M7 User’s Guide Appendix C - Wiring Diagrams Wiring Diagram for Three or Four Receivers (Linear Quad-output Versions) Antenna Data Power Switchplate + – + – RJ 22 Maintenance Power Terminal Strip +12 VDC Vessel Power Antenna Unit RF Port Power In –...
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