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Mid-tech RX 400p User Manual

Mid-tech telemetry receiver user guide
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Midwest Technologies Illinois, LLC
2733 E. Ash St.
Springfield, IL 62703
Telephone number:
Fax number:
E-mail address: custserve@mid-tech.com
Web Site:
RX 400p

User Guide

217-753-8424
217-753-8426
www.mid-tech.com
98-05044
R1

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Summary of Contents for Mid-tech RX 400p

  • Page 1: User Guide

    RX 400p User Guide Midwest Technologies Illinois, LLC 2733 E. Ash St. Springfield, IL 62703 Telephone number: 217-753-8424 Fax number: 217-753-8426 E-mail address: custserve@mid-tech.com Web Site: www.mid-tech.com 98-05044...
  • Page 2 RX 400p 98-05044...

  • Page 3: Copyright Notice

    MID-TECH Inc. Trademarks MID-TECH and the MID-TECH logo are registered trademarks of Midwest Technologies Illinois, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
  • Page 4 MID-TECH within thirty (30) days after such defect is discovered. Upon inspection and examination by MID-TECH, and at its option, MID-TECH shall repair or replace, with a new or comparable product. No product will be considered defective if it substantially fulfills the performance specifications.
  • Page 5 MID-TECH be liable for special, indirect or consequential damages. In particular, MID-TECH shall not be liable for damage to crops as the result of misuse or negligence in the application of chemicals or operation of MID-TECH products. The price stated for the equipment is a consideration in limiting MID-TECH’s liability.
  • Page 6 RX 400p MID-TECH does not warrant or guarantee the precision or accuracy of positions obtained when using MID-TECH products. Product accuracy as stated in MID- TECH literature and/or product specifications serves to provide only an estimate of achievable accuracy based on:...

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    1.3.4 Turning the RX 400p On .............1-4 1.3.5 Grounding the RX 400p ..............1-4 1.3.6 Connecting the RX 400p To External Devices......1-4 Installing the CDA-2B Antenna...............1-7 1.4.1 Antenna Placement To Optimize Beacon Reception ....1-7 1.4.2 Antenna Installation – 1-14-UNS Threaded Mount ....1-8 1.4.3...
  • Page 8 Beacon Operation ..................2-4 2.4.1 Tune Modes ................2-4 2.4.2 Receiver Performance..............2-6 Factory Default Parameters ..............2-7 RX 400p Architecture ..................3-1 Hardware ....................3-1 Firmware ....................3-1 Applications .................... 3-2 Operation......................4-1 Front Display and Keypad............... 4-1 Navigating the Menu System ..............4-2 Menu Access Icon ...................
  • Page 9 4.4.4 Beacon Lock Icon ................4-5 4.4.5 External DGPS Correction Source Icon ........4-5 4.4.6 Autonomous Mode Icon ..............4-6 RX 400p Menu System Overview ............4-6 Start-Up Sequence..................4-11 Signal Tracking Bar Chart..............4-11 4.7.1 WAAS Mode Bar Chart.............4-12 4.7.2 OmniSTAR Mode Bar Chart .............4-12 4.7.3...
  • Page 10 RX 400p 4.12 Beacon Menu..................4-54 4.12.1 Beacon Signal Status Menu ............4-56 4.12.2 Beacon Configure Menu ............4-59 4.13 External RTCM Menu................4-61 4.14 Autonomous Menu ................4-63 4.15 System Setup Menu................4-64 4.15.1 Display Applications Menu ............4-66 4.15.2 Display Format Menu ...............
  • Page 11 RX 400p NMEA Message Elements ...............6-1 RX 400p Serial Port Configuration............6-2 SLXMon....................6-2 GPS NMEA Data Messages..............6-3 6.5.1 GGA Data Message ..............6-3 6.5.2 GLL Data Message ..............6-4 6.5.3 GSA Data Message..............6-5 6.5.4 GST Data Message ..............6-6 6.5.5 GSV Data Message..............6-6 6.5.6 RMC Data Message ..............6-7...
  • Page 12 RX 400p Appendix D - Beacon Information............. 11-1 Index ..................... 12-1 98-05044...

  • Page 13: List Of Figures

    RX 400p List of Figures Figure 2-1 Cable Interface ..................1-2 Figure 2-2 RX 400P Socket Connector Pin Numbering ........1-6 Figure 2-3 RX 400P Interface .................1-6 Figure 5-1 RX 400P Display and Keypad ..............4-1 Figure 5-2 Menu Access Icon ..................4-2 Figure 5-3 GPS Position Fix Icon ................4-3 Figure 5-4 WAAS Lock Icon...................4-4...
  • Page 14 RX 400p List of Tables Table 2-1 Power Requirements of the RX 400P ........... 1-3 Table 2-2 MAIN Port Pin-out, RS-232C Interface Level ........1-5 Table 2-3 AUX Port Pin-out, RS-232C Interface Level........1-5 Table 3-1 Beacon Receiver Performance - SNR Reading........2-7 Table 3-2 Preset DGPS Mode.................

  • Page 15: Preface

    In addition to real-time DGPS, the RX 400p also supports post-processing. You may configure the RX 400p for output of binary measurement data for logging with the use of an external device. A conversion utility is available from MID-TECH for translation from the proprietary binary format into the Receiver Independent Exchange format (RINEX).

  • Page 16: Organization

    Chapter 5: Configuration Wizard - introduces the Configuration Wizard feature and describes how it may be used to simplify configuration of the RX 400p receiver. Chapter 6: NMEA 0183 Messages - describes the subset of NMEA 0183 commands and queries used to communicate with the GPS features of the two internal RX 400p sensors.

  • Page 17: Customer Service

    MID-TECH Customer Service. In the event that your equipment requires service, we recommend that you contact your dealer directly. However, if this is not possible, you must contact MID-TECH Customer Service to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number...

  • Page 18: World Wide Web Site

    RX 400p before returning any product to MID-TECH. If you are returning a product for repair, you must also provide a fault description before MID-TECH will issue an RMA number. When providing the RMA number, MID-TECH will provide you with shipping instructions to assist you in returning the equipment.

  • Page 19: Document Conventions

    Notes, Cautions, and Warnings Notes, Cautions, and Warnings stress important information regarding the installation, configuration, and operation of the RX 400p combination GPS/L- band/Beacon receiver. Note - Notes outline important information of a general nature. Cautions - Cautions inform of possible sources of difficulty or situations that may cause damage to the product.

  • Page 21: Installation

    1 Installation This chapter contains instructions and recommendations for the installation of the RX 400p receiver and CDA-2B antenna. 1.1 System Parts List The following list of standard equipment is included with the RX 400p Receiver system: RX 400p CDA-2B Antenna...

  • Page 22: Installing The Rx 400P Receiver

    To ensure optimum receiver performance and ease of operation, follow the guidelines presented in the following sections. 1.3.1 Receiver Placement The flange mounting bracket supplied with the RX 400p is used to secure the receiver to the selected mounting surface. You may install this bracket on the top or 98-05044...

  • Page 23: Environmental Considerations

    The RX 400p uses a 2-conductor, positive locking, circular connector for application of power. The RX 400p accepts an input voltage between 9.2 and 48 VDC. For best performance, the supplied power should be continuous and clean. Table 1-1 details the power specifications of the RX 400p receiver.

  • Page 24: Turning The Rx 400P On

    RX 400p 1.3.4 Turning the RX 400p On When connected to a suitable power source, the RX 400p may be turned on and off using the On/Off switch located on the rear panel. To turn the RX 400p on: Connect the red wire of the supplied power cable to DC positive (+).
  • Page 25 AUX port. Both data ports are located at the back panel of the RX 400p and are a DB9 socket connector. Table 1-2 and Table 1-3 provide pin-assignment information for the RX 400p MAIN and AUX serial ports respectively.
  • Page 26 Refer to Appendix B for further interface information when operating in the RX 400p with various correction sources. For successful communications, the baud rate of the RX 400p serial ports must be set to match that of the devices to which they are connected. Refer to Section 4.15.3 and Section 4.16.3 for instructions related to setting the RX 400p baud rates.

  • Page 27: Installing The Cda-2B Antenna

    This will reduce the amount of noise present at the antenna, improving beacon receiver performance. The position calculated by the RX 400p is measured to the center of the CDA-2B antenna. Install the antenna in the best location for your application, such as the centerline of your vehicle or vessel.

  • Page 28: Antenna Installation - 1-14-Uns Threaded Mount

    Antenna Installation – 1-14-UNS Threaded Mount The CDA-2B uses a 1-14-UNS-2B thread for mounting, which is not compatible with ¾ NPT or pipe threads. A magnetic mount accompanies the standard RX 400p system. An adapter to convert the 1-14-UNS thread to a 5/8 inch survey-style thread is available from MID-TECH, discussed in Section 1.5.3.

  • Page 29: Routing And Securing The Antenna Cable

    The CDA-2B Antenna connects to the RX 400p receiver using the supplied TNC- male to TNC-male antenna cable. To connect the CDA-2B Antenna to the RX 400p: Thread one end of the TNC to TNC antenna extension cable onto the TNC socket...
  • Page 30 Thread the other end of the antenna extension cable to the TNC socket connector on the rear panel of the RX 400p, labeled CDA-2B. Caution - Be sure to always connect the antenna to the RX 400p before you turn the receiver on.

  • Page 31: Mounting Accessories

    RX 400p 1.5 Mounting Accessories MID-TECH offers various mounting accessories as discussed in the following sections. 1.5.1 Magnetic Mount Included with a standard system, the magnetic mount (PN 725-0007-012) can be used to install the CDA-2B antenna on any ferrous surface including the roof of a vehicle.

  • Page 33: Rx 400P Overview

    For your convenience, all internal sensors within the RX 400p feature automatic tuning algorithms, which are in operation by default. When powered for the first time, the RX 400p receiver will perform a ‘cold start’, which involves acquiring the available GPS satellites in view and the WAAS differential service.

  • Page 34: Waas Operation

    SNR is indicative of better quality signal reception. SNR information is provided by the RX 400p via its menu system on a per channel basis numerically as well as presenting this information symbolically in a bar chart. More about this feature is discussed in Sections 4.7 and 4.9.2.

  • Page 35: Omnistar Operation

    The BER numbers for both satellites, if available in your region, are presented in the menu system of the RX 400p. The bit error rate has a default, no-lock value of 500 or more. As the receiver begins to successfully acquire the signal, it will result in a lower bit error rate.

  • Page 36: Beacon Operation

    2.4.1 Tune Modes The RX 400p may be operated in either Automatic or Manual Beacon tune modes. In Automatic Beacon Search (ABS) mode, the receiver will identify and tune to the station providing the strongest DGPS signal. In Manual Tune mode, you specify the frequency to which the receiver will tune, or select the desired beacon by name from the built-in global listing.
  • Page 37 2.4.1.2 ABS Global Beacon Search When powered for the first time in ABS mode, the RX 400p initiates a Global Search using, examining each available DGPS beacon frequency, and recording Signal Strength (SS) measurements in units of dBµV/m to the Global Search Table. The receiver uses these measured values to compute an average SS, and noise floor, to sort the frequencies in descending order of SS.

  • Page 38: Receiver Performance

    MSK bit rate of the closest beacon. The RX 400p also provides the capability to select a beacon by name from the World Beacon Table stored within receiver memory. This feature is discussed in more detail in Section 4.12.2 and 4.12.2.1.

  • Page 39: Factory Default Parameters

    Refer to Section 4.7 for further information. 2.5 Factory Default Parameters Tables 2-2, 2-3, and 2-4 identify the default RX 400p configuration settings of the various RX 400p Series receivers. Caution - The changes you make to the RX 400p configuration are saved in memory for subsequent power-up.
  • Page 40 RX 400p Table 2-2 Preset DGPS Mode DGPS Mode WAAS Table 2-3 Preset Port Settings Serial Port Baud Rate Data Bits Parity Stop Bit Interface Level MAIN 9600 None RS-232C 9600 None RS-232C Table 2-4 Preset GPS NMEA Message Output...

  • Page 41: Rx 400P Architecture

    The RX 400p receiver is comprised of two main components – hardware and software. This chapter provides an overview of the hardware and software architecture of the RX 400p receiver in order to provide further insight into the operation of the product.

  • Page 42: Applications

    RX 400p As the software that operates the internal components of the RX 400p operates at a low level, it is often referred to as firmware. There are three types of firmware within the SLX - DSP, ARM, and menu system firmware.

  • Page 43: Operation

    RX 400p 4 Operation This chapter introduces the display and keypad features of the RX 400p, operating modes, menu structure, and receiver default operating parameters. 4.1 Front Display and Keypad The RX 400p features a 2-line by 16-character LCD and 3-button keypad. The...

  • Page 44: Navigating The Menu System

    Note - The top line of the RX 400p display is the Focus Line. The field of interest must be ‘in focus’ for keystrokes to have the desired effect.

  • Page 45: Position Fix Status Icon

    The RX 400p provides an indication of the GPS lock status, as contained within the GPGGA data message string output from the data port of the receiver. This indicator is located in the lower right hand corner of the RX 400p display. Figure 4- 3, illustrates the three states of the GPS status icon.

  • Page 46: Omnistar Lock Icon

    Figure 4-5 L-band Lock Icon Note - When using corrections from the OmniSTAR service, the GPS output of the RX 400p will not be differentially corrected until lock has been attained on an OmniSTAR broadcast with a subscribed receiver. 98-05044...

  • Page 47: Beacon Lock Icon

    The lock symbol, illustrated in Figure 4-6, remains in the closed position when the RX 400p is locked to a valid beacon signal, and open, when no broadcast is available for the specified frequency and/or MSK bit rate.

  • Page 48: Autonomous Mode Icon

    Figure 4-8 Autonomous Mode Icon 4.5 RX 400p Menu System Overview This section shows you how to navigate through the menu system of the RX 400p receiver, change operating modes, monitor position and status information, and change receiver configuration. Figures 4-9 to 4-15 illustrate the various menus in the menu system.
  • Page 49 RX 400p Res rms: 0.3m? =_a:??????0.2m?^ =_b:??????0.1m Azimuth:163.1! =_Lat:????0.2m? =_Lon:????0.2m =_Alt:????0.3m `??51!00.131035 ENTER Back@ ~_114!00.273158^ Top Menu@ Hgt?1030.40m Hdg 187.3!t 10.5?kph Time?11:32:45.2 Car Smooth??11? Age?? 5.6?s Eph Exists??11?^ SV Count 07 ENTER Eph Healthy?10 HDOP NotUsed?Prev11 Precision@ Above Ele NavCnd@ ABBABB...
  • Page 50 RX 400p Figure 4-10 WAAS Menu 1 2 3 3 2 1 3 3 3 1 2 3 3 2 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 ENTER Subscription OK+ Region?????? OK^ Sat?Link?????OK...
  • Page 51 RX 400p 1 2 3 3 2 1 3 3 3 1 2 4 3 2 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 ENTER Diff@Beacon < F? Auto/Auto AA$ SS 54?SNR?26? ^ Tune@ Auto Auto <...
  • Page 52 RX 400p 1 2 3 3 2 1 3 3 3 1 2 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 ENTER GPS@??????????? No Diff Source Autonomous@ ENTER Diff@Autonomous^ Config Wizard@ Back@ System Setup@ Top Menu@...

  • Page 53: Start-Up Sequence

    RX 400p 4.6 Start-Up Sequence When you turn the RX 400p on, it will sequence through a startup screen followed by a prompt asking if you’d like to use the Configuration Wizard. This prompt has a 3- second timeout where the receiver will proceed to the Position Status menu unless the button is pressed.

  • Page 54: Waas Mode Bar Chart

    4.7.1 WAAS Mode Bar Chart When operating the RX 400p receiver in WAAS mode, the portion of the bar chart to the right of the WAAS mode indicator, A, reflects WAAS tracking performance. The WAAS bar chart will reflect the quality of the bit error rate (BER) for WAAS signal reception.

  • Page 55: Beacon Mode Bar Chart

    4.7.3 Beacon Mode Bar Chart When operating the RX 400p receiver in beacon mode, the portion of the bar chart to the right of the beacon mode indicator, $, reflects tracking performance. The beacon bar chart will reflect the quality of the signal strength (SS) and the signal to noise ration (SNR) for beacon signal reception.

  • Page 56: Autonomous Mode Bar Chart

    4.7.5 Autonomous Mode Bar Chart When operating the RX 400p receiver in autonomous mode, the portion of the bar chart to the right will display the autonomous icon @. No associated status data is provided for this mode of operation.

  • Page 57: Gps Menu

    GPS setup parameters. When this menu is accessed using the button, WAAS@ the RX 400p menu displays the contents of the DGPS menu. Depending on the differential mode of operation, this menu will be named WAAS, OmniSTAR, Beacon, Extern RTCM, or Autonomous.
  • Page 58 RX 400p The GPS@ menu contains sub-menus that provide access to position and satellite status information, and GPS receiver configuration parameters. Please note that the icon in the lower corner of the display will change according to the GPS fix as shown in Figure 4-3.

  • Page 59: Gps Position Status Menu

    Entering this menu using the button will allow Configure@ you to change various configuration parameters related to the GPS receiver inside the RX 400p. This includes NMEA message output settings, elevation cut-off mask, differential time-out, and UTC offset. When accessed using the...
  • Page 60 RX 400p `??51!00.131035A ~_114!00.273158^ Hgt?1030.40m 187.3!t 10.5?kph Time?11:32:45.2 Age?? 5.6?s SV Count 07 HDOP Precision@ NavCnd@ ABBABB DSP_ARM@1B_1F Back@ Top Menu@ Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available menu items. Pressing the button anywhere in this menu will provide a bar chart of signal tracking information.
  • Page 61 RX 400p This menu item displays the current antenna `??51!00.131035 latitude in degrees / minutes / decimal minutes (DM.M) by default. Other display formats are possible, including degrees / decimal degrees (D.D) and degrees / minutes / seconds (DMS). These other display formats are discussed in further detail in Section 4.15.2.
  • Page 62 RX 400p Longitude information is parsed from the GPGGA NMEA message. The longitude, measured to the phase center of the antenna, is usually referenced to the WGS-84 ellipsoid, however, some DGPS services result in a position relating to the North American Datum 1983 (NAD-83).
  • Page 63 RX 400p This item displays the current UTC Time. If a Time 11:32:45.2 local offset has been specified, the time will reflect your local time instead. See Section 5.15.2 for further details on setting a UTC offset. This information is parsed from the GPZDA NMEA message.
  • Page 64 RX 400p Accessing this menu by pressing the button Precision@ with this item in focus will provide access to estimated real-time precision values of computed positions. The contents of this menu are described in Section 4.9.1.1. This menu item displays satellite tracking...
  • Page 65 RX 400p 4.9.1.1 Precision Menu The Precision@ menu provides information relating to the estimated real-time precision of position computations. Please note that these are not absolute accuracy estimates, but only relative measures. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-9. Res rms: 0.3m?A...
  • Page 66 RX 400p This menu item indicates the azimuth of the azimuth:163.1! semi-major axis of the horizontal position’s error ellipse. This menu item indicates length of the latitude =_Lat: 0.2m component of the horizontal error ellipse to a confidence of one standard deviation.
  • Page 67 RX 400p This menu item indicates height of the altitude =_Alt: 0.3m component of a 3D error ellipse to a confidence of one standard deviation. When accessed using the button, this menu Back@ item returns the menu system to the previous menu.
  • Page 68 RX 400p in focus will take the menu system to the previous menu or the Main menu, respectively. This menu item displays the number of satellites Car?Smooth???9?+ currently being tracked that have carrier phase smoothing active. Carrier phase smoothing uses...
  • Page 69 RX 400p This menu item is the number of satellites that are NotUsed?Prev?9 currently being tracked by the GPS engine, have an ephemeris, are healthy, and are above the elevation mask. This menu item indicates how many satellites are Above?Ele????9 above the current elevation mask setting.
  • Page 70 4.9.1.3 DSP-ARM Menu The DSP-ARM status menu provides information relating to the status of the internal DSP and ARM processors of the internal SLX receiver of the RX 400p. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-9. DSP:CarLock?YES+ DSP:BER?????YES^...
  • Page 71 RX 400p Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available menu items. Pressing the button anywhere in this menu will provide a bar chart of signal tracking information. Pressing the button with the Back@ or Top Menu@ item in focus will take the menu system to the previous menu or the Main menu, respectively.
  • Page 72 RX 400p This menu item indicates if differential data is being ARM:DifData successfully decoded by the GPS receiver. Under normal operation, this field should indicate YES. Under normal operation, this field should indicate ARM:ARMLock YES. Under normal operation, this field should indicate ARM:DGPS YES.

  • Page 73: Gps Satellites Menu

    RX 400p 4.9.2 GPS Satellites Menu This section of the menu tree provides access to GPS satellite tracking information on a channel-by-channel basis. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-9. CH01_SV23?EL?37+ AZ??092?SNR??45^ ???????. ???????. ???????. CH12_SV09?EL?45+ AZ??183?SNR??47^ Back@ Pressing the...
  • Page 74 A higher SNR reading is desirable. For best channel tracking performance, the RX 400p requires an SNR of above approximately 40. This information is parsed from the GPGSV NMEA message.

  • Page 75: Gps Configure Menu

    Main menu, respectively. When accessed using the button, this menu item NMEA?Output@ will take the menu system of the RX 400p to the NMEA Output menu for configuration of the messages output by the receiver. 4-33...
  • Page 76 RX 400p When accessed, this menu allows you to adjust the Elev?Mask@?? 5! elevation cutoff mask of the internal GPS receiver, from 0° to 45°, using the keys, followed by pressing When accessed, this menu allows you to adjust the...
  • Page 77 This menu allows you to toggle the output of various NMEA messages that are output from the MAIN port of the RX 400p. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-9. The NMEA messages within this menu are described in detail within Chapter 7.
  • Page 78 This menu item allows you to toggle the output of GPGGA@ 1 Hz the GPGLL message through the MAIN port of the RX 400p receiver. To change the current update rate, press the button followed by adjusting the rate using the key, then press .
  • Page 79 This menu item allows you to toggle the output of GPGST@ Off the GPGST message through the MAIN port of the RX 400p receiver. To change the current update rate, press the button followed by adjusting the rate using the key, then press .
  • Page 80 This menu item allows you to toggle the output of Bin95@ Off the Binary 95 message (contains GPS ephemeris data) through the MAIN port of the RX 400p receiver. To change the current update rate, press button followed by adjusting the rate using key, then press .

  • Page 81: Waas Menu

    This menu item allows you to toggle the output of Bin96@ Off the Binary 96 message (contains raw measurement data) through the MAIN port of the RX 400p receiver. To change the current update rate, press button followed by adjusting the rate using key, then press .

  • Page 82: Waas Signal Status Menu

    RX 400p Signal Status@ A Configure@ Back@ Top Menu@ Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any item in focus will take the menu system to that submenu. Pressing the button with the Back@ or Top Menu@ item in focus will take the menu system to the previous menu or the Main menu, respectively.
  • Page 83 RX 400p BER?122:?? BER?134:?? LN? 122: _54.0! LN? 134: 178.0! Elev122:? 9.8! Elev134:? 5.0! Az? 122: 114.0! Az? 134: 252.6! Back@ Top?Menu@ Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any status information in focus will display the signal tracking bar chart.
  • Page 84 RX 400p This menu item provides the longitude of the PRN 122: _54.0! 122 AOR-W (Atlantic Ocean Region - West) WAAS satellite. As the satellite is geosynchronous, this value will not change. This menu item provides the longitude of the PRN 134: 178.0!
  • Page 85 RX 400p This menu item provides you with the current Az 134: 252.6! azimuth, referenced to North, of the PRN 134 POR (Pacific Ocean Region) WAAS satellite. The azimuth value depends on your current latitude and longitude in relation to the satellite’s longitude. If the satellite is directly South of your current location, the satellite will have an azimuth of 180°.

  • Page 86: Waas Configure Menu

    This menu provides access to the signal status and configuration parameters of the internal L-band receiver inside the RX 400p. Please note that the icon in the upper right corner of the display will change to a vertical satellite symbol as shown in Figure 4-5 when using corrections from the internal OmniSTAR receiver.

  • Page 87: Omnistar Signal Status Menu

    RX 400p Accessing this submenu by pressing the button Signal?Status@ with this item in focus allows you to monitor signal status information from the internal OmniSTAR DGPS receiver. When in focus, accessing this menu using button Configure@ allows you to configure the internal OmniSTAR receiver.
  • Page 88 RX 400p F 1551489/1200 + BER?001 AA ^ Difstatus@ LN?? _101.0! Elevation?31.6! Azimuth??163.4! Back@ Top?Menu@ Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any status information in focus will display the signal tracking bar chart. Pressing the...
  • Page 89 RX 400p The differential status menu provides an indication Difstatus@ of the status of the L-band DGPS receiver. This value is in hexadecimal, however, the submenu that may be accessed by pressing the button, when this item is focus, decodes this into more intuitive information.
  • Page 90 RX 400p When accessed using the button, this menu item Back@ returns the menu system to the previous menu. When accessed using the button, this menu item Top?Menu@ returns the menu system to the main menu. 4.11.1.1 Difstatus Menu This menu provides details on the OmniSTAR differential service. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-11.
  • Page 91 RX 400p This menu item indicates if the receiver is currently Region operating within the intended region. If the receiver is operating in the subscribed region, this item will display ‘OK’, otherwise it will display ‘BAD’. This menu item indicates if the OmniSTAR satellite Sat?Link uplink is operating correctly.
  • Page 92 This menu item indicates if the internal L-band Position receiver has received a position from the GPS sensor. If a valid position is present, the RX 400p will display ‘OK’, otherwise the receiver will indicate ‘BAD’. This menu item indicates if GPS time is currently Time available to the internal L-band sensor.

  • Page 93: Omnistar Configure Menu

    This menu contains two menus related to the selection of the differential source, OmniSTAR receiver tuning, and a facility to monitor the subscription status of the OmniSTAR receiver inside the RX 400p. This menu is detailed in Figure 4-11. Diff@OmniSTAR ?+...
  • Page 94 RX 400p When accessed using the button, you will be F@1551489/1200 ^ able to tune the OmniSTAR receiver manually. A screen will confirm that you wish to proceed with the manual tune. If you do, adjust this to read ‘Yes’...
  • Page 95 4.11.2.1 Subscription Menu When operating the RX 400p with an OmniSTAR subscription, this menu provides information relating to the expiry of the subscription. Additionally, the OmniSTAR unit number is provided in this menu, which is required by OmniSTAR for subscribing to their service.

  • Page 96: Beacon Menu

    This menu provides access to the signal status and configuration parameters of the internal SBX beacon receiver inside the RX 400p. Please note that the icon in the upper right corner of the display will be a padlock symbol as shown in Figure 4-6 when operating in beacon DGPS mode.
  • Page 97 RX 400p Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any item in focus will take the menu system to that submenu. Pressing the button with the Back@ or Top Menu@ item in focus will take the menu system to the previous menu or the Main menu, respectively.

  • Page 98: Beacon Signal Status Menu

    RX 400p 4.12.1 Beacon Signal Status Menu This section of the menu tree provides access to information related to the status of the beacon receiver primary channel. This submenu is detailed in Figure 4-12. F? Auto/Auto AA$ SS 54?SNR?26? MTP?100>?Q?25?
  • Page 99 RX 400p floor, measured in decibels (dB). This value effectively describes the reception quality, as a signal is ‘louder’ if it is higher above the noise floor. Interpretation of the SNR reading is discussed further in Section 2.4.2. The menu item provides an indication of the amount MTP?100>?Q?25?
  • Page 100 RX 400p This menu item displays the identification number of ID?0001??H?01 the reference Station as contained within the RTCM header words of the correction data. Usually, beacon sites have redundant base stations, so it the number displayed will be one of two that identify the beacon.

  • Page 101: Beacon Configure Menu

    Reference Station Transmission Broadcast – Unmonitored Reference Station Not Working 4.12.2 Beacon Configure Menu This menu provides access to the various methods to tune the internal SBX beacon sensor inside the RX 400p. This submenu is detailed in Figure 4-12. Diff@Beacon? Tune@Auto Auto?^ Auto?Tune@ TuneBeaconName@...
  • Page 102 RX 400p When using an external source, be sure that it is providing RTCM SC-104 compliant data and not a proprietary binary format. When accessed using the button, this menu item Tune@Auto Auto allows you to manually tune the beacon receiver using the key.

  • Page 103: External Rtcm Menu

    Please note that the upper right icon will change to the external RTCM icon, ?, as shown in Figure 4-7 when operating the RX 400p with external corrections. This portion of the menu system, including submenus, is detailed in Figure 4-13.
  • Page 104 RX 400p Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any status information (items without the menu access indicator, @) in focus will display the signal tracking bar chart. Pressing the button on any item in focus with the menu access indicator will take the menu system to that submenu.

  • Page 105: Autonomous Menu

    RX 400p When accessed using the button, this menu item Top?Menu@ returns the menu system to the main menu. 4.14 Autonomous Menu This menu displays the current mode of operation and a menu item to change the current DGPS mode. This submenu is detailed in Figure 4-14.

  • Page 106: System Setup Menu

    Top?Menu@ returns the menu system to the main menu. 4.15 System Setup Menu This menu provides access to RX 400p configuration menus. This portion of the menu system, including submenus, is detailed in Figure 4-15. Display Apps@ Display Format@^ Baud Rates@...
  • Page 107 RX 400p When accessed using the button, this menu item Display Apps@ A will display the current application in use and the other application not in use. The current applications present for the SLX are WAAS and OmniSTAR. Both the WAAS and...

  • Page 108: Display Applications Menu

    This menu displays the current application in use and the other application not in use. This menu system is detailed in Figure 4-15. In Use: WAAS Other : OmniSTAR 4.15.2 Display Format Menu This menu provides access to RX 400p configuration information and sub-menus. This menu system is detailed in Figure 4-15. 98-05044 4-66...
  • Page 109 RX 400p DispUpdate@5 HzA LL Unit@DM.M Hgt Unit@meters Vel Unit@km/h Back@ Top Menu@ Pressing the keys allows you to scroll through the available options. Pressing the button with any item in focus will take the menu system to that submenu. Pressing the button with the Back@ or Top Menu@ item in focus will take the menu system to the previous menu or the Main menu, respectively.

  • Page 110: Baud Rates Menu

    This menu allows you to change the data rates of the external MAIN and AUX serial ports of the RX 400p receiver. These ports are referred to as the NMEA I/O and RTCM In ports, respectively, within the menu system for clarification of their purpose.

  • Page 111: Software Display Menu

    4.15.4 Software Display Menu This menu provides access to version of firmware installed within the RX 400p receiver. There are four types of firmware described below. This menu system is detailed in Figure 4-15.

  • Page 112: Configuring The Receiver

    When accessed using the button, this menu item Top?Menu@ returns the menu system to the main menu. 4.16 Configuring the Receiver The following subsections provide detailed instructions for you to configure important operating parameters of the RX 400p. 98-05044 4-70...

  • Page 113: Changing The Source Of Dgps Corrections

    Continue for each data message as required. 4.16.3 Changing the Baud Rates To modify the baud rate of the RX 400p data ports: Using the key, move the Setup@ menu, located in the root menu, into focus and press...

  • Page 114: Monitoring The Omnistar Subscription Status

    4.16.4 Monitoring the OmniSTAR Subscription Status When in OmniSTAR DGPS mode, to view the subscription status of the OmniSTAR engine inside the RX 400p receiver: Using the key, move the OmniSTAR@ menu, located in the root menu, into focus and press...
  • Page 115 RX 400p 4.16.5.2 Select a Beacon By Name To tune to a specific beacon by name: Using the key, move the Beacon@ menu, located in the root menu, into focus and press Using the key, move the Configure@ menu into focus and press...

  • Page 116: Firmware Updates

    Search. The second method will resume from where the last automatic search algorithm left off. 4.17 Firmware Updates Please contact MID-TECH Customer Service for the latest firmware update for your RX 400p receiver. Firmware releases include a Field Upgrade Program, installation instructions, and release notes. 98-05044...

  • Page 117: Configuration Wizard

    RX 400p 5 Configuration Wizard The Configuration Wizard is an easy, efficient way of configuring your receiver. Using the Wizard, you may configure your receiver in just a few keystrokes by selecting from a list of previously saved configurations. The Configuration Wizard is composed of two main parts - a step-by-step process of configuration, plus the ability to store a new configuration in one of five memory locations for future use.
  • Page 118 RX 400p GPS@??????????? WAAS@ Config Wizard@ Use prev saved ENTER @My Config System Setup@ congifs\ No < ENTER @Not Used 2 @Not Used 3 @Not Used 4 ENTER @Not Used 5 Return@ Configuration Exit Wizard@ Wizard Choose the DGPS Source...

  • Page 119: Start-Up Sequence

    RX 400p 5.1 Start-up Sequence When you turn the RX 400p on, it will sequence through a startup screen followed by a prompt asking if you’d like to use the Configuration Wizard. To access the Configuration Wizard, press the button within the 3-second timeout period.

  • Page 120: Bypassing A Configuration Step

    When bypassing the current step, the parameter that was bypassed will remain unchanged from your current configuration. For example, if the RX 400p is operating in WAAS mode, and during the Wizard step-by-step process you are prompted to choose the DGPS source, if you are happy with the current WAAS mode, select ‘No’.
  • Page 121 RX 400p If you wish to save the configuration, simply move the memory location to which you would like to save it, into focus and press the button. You will then be prompted to enter in each alpha-numeric character of the new configuration’s name.

  • Page 123: Nmea 0183 Messages

    RX 400p 6 NMEA 0183 Messages This chapter identifies the selection of valid NMEA 0183 output messages for the RX 400p receiver. 6.1 Description of NMEA 0183 NMEA 0183 is a communications standard established by the marine industry. It has found use in a variety of electronic devices, including GPS and beacon receivers.

  • Page 124: Rx 400P Serial Port Configuration

    Intended for advanced users, these messages allow the RX 400p to be configured and monitored remotely. A separate RX 400p Programming Manual is available that goes into detail on how to use these extended commands. Please contact MID-TECH for further information on programming the RX 400p through its serial port.

  • Page 125: Gps Nmea Data Messages

    RX 400p 6.5 GPS NMEA Data Messages The following subsections describe the data messages listed in Table 6-2 in detail. Table 6-2 GPS NMEA Messages Message Description GPGGA Global Positioning System Fix Data GPGLL Geographic Position – Latitude/Longitude GPGSA GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) DOP and Active Satellites...

  • Page 126: Gll Data Message

    RX 400p Table 6-3 GGA Data Message Defined Field Description hhmmss.ss UTC time in hours, minutes, seconds of the GPS position ddmm.mmmmm Latitude in degrees, minutes, and decimal minutes s = N or s = S, for North or South latitude dddmm.mmmmm...

  • Page 127: Gsa Data Message

    RX 400p Table 6-4 GLL Data Message Defined Field Description ddmm.mmmmm Latitude in degrees, minutes, and decimal minutes s = N or s = S, for North or South latitude dddmm.mmmmm Longitude in degrees, minutes, and decimal minutes s = E or s = W, for East or West longitude hhmmss.ss...

  • Page 128: Gst Data Message

    RX 400p 6.5.4 GST Data Message The GST message contains Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) psuedorange error statistics. Table 6-6, breaks down the GST message into its components. This message has the following format: $GPGST,hhmmss.ss,a.a,b.b,c.c,d.d,e.e,f.f,g.g *cc<CR><LF> Table 6-6 GST Data Message Defined...

  • Page 129: Rmc Data Message

    RX 400p Table 6-7 GSV Data Message Defined Field Description Total number of messages Message number, m = 1 to 3 Total number of satellites in view Satellite number Elevation in degrees, ee = 0 to 90 Azimuth (true) in degrees, aaa = 0 to 359...

  • Page 130: Rre Data Message

    RX 400p Table 6-8 RMC Data Message Defined Field Description hhmmss.ss UTC time in hours, minutes, seconds of the GPS position Status is valid if a = A, status is invalid if a = V ddmm.mmmmm Latitude in degrees, minutes, and decimal minutes S = N or s = S, for North or South latitude dddmm.mmmmm...

  • Page 131: Vtg Data Message

    RX 400p 6.5.8 VTG Data Message The VTG message contains velocity and course information. Table 6-10 breaks down the VTG data message into its components. This message has the following format: $GPVTG,ttt,c,ttt,c,ggg.gg,u,ggg,gg,u*cc<CR><LF> Table 6-10 VTG Data Message Defined Field Description...
  • Page 132 RX 400p Table 6-11 ZDA Data Message Defined Field Description UTC time in hours, minutes, seconds of the GPS position mmss.ss Day, dd = 0 to 31 Month, mm = 1 to 12 yyyy Year Local zone description in hours, xx = -13 to 13...

  • Page 133: Troubleshooting

    RX 400p 7 Troubleshooting Use the following checklist to troubleshoot erroneous RX 400p receiver operation. Table 7-1 provides a problem symptom, followed by a list of possible solutions. Table 7-1 Troubleshooting Symptom Possible Solution • Receiver fails to power Verify polarity of power leads •...
  • Page 134 MSK rate (100 200, or Auto) • Verify frequency of transmitting beacon, or choose Auto?Tune@ • Verify RX 400p antenna port output voltage (5 VDC) No DGPS position in external • Verify that the baud rate of the RTCM In (AUX)

  • Page 135: Appendix A - Specifications

    RX 400p 8 Appendix A - Specifications This appendix provides the operational, mechanical, electrical, physical, and environmental specifications for the RX 400p receiver and CDA-2B antenna. Table A-1 RX 400p Specifications Internal GPS Engine Operational Specifications Item Specification Frequency 1.575 GHz...
  • Page 136 RX 400p Serial Interface Specifications Item Specification Serial Port Interface Level RS-232C MAIN Connector DB9 Socket AUX Connector DB9 Socket MAIN Baud Rate 4800, 9600, or 19200 Baud AUX Baud Rate 4800, 9600, or 19200 Baud MAIN Output Protocol NMEA 0183...
  • Page 137 RX 400p Power Specifications Item Specification Input Voltage 3.6-15 VDC Supplied by Receiver Input Current 50-60 mA Mechanical Characteristics Item Specification Enclosure Aluminum Base, Polycarbonate Top Mounting Thread 1-14-UNS-2B Diameter 129 mm (5.08”) Height 98 mm (3.85”) Weight 456 g (1.0 lb.)

  • Page 139: Appendix B - Interface

    The main purpose of the RX 400p receiver is to provide differentially corrected position and position-related information in the standard NMEA format. In addition to the RX 400p operating as a positioning sensor, you may also have a use for the correction data received by the internal WAAS, OmniSTAR, or beacon.

  • Page 140: Rtcm Data Output

    NMEA Figure B-1 GPS Data Interface Note - For successful communications, the baud rate of the RX 400p MAIN port must be set to match that of the data logging or monitoring device. Additionally, you must interface the RX 400p to an RS-232C serial port of the external device.

  • Page 141: External Correction Input

    9.3 External Correction Input In this operating mode, an external correction device inputs RTCM correction data through the RX 400p’s RTCM In port (AUX port). In order to accomplish this, the RX 400p must be operating in the external RTCM input DGPS mode.
  • Page 142 RTCM Figure B-3 External Correction Source Interface Note - For successful communications, the baud rate of the RX 400p AUX port must be set to match that of the external correction source. Additionally, you must interface the RX 400p to an RS-232C serial port of the external source.

  • Page 143: Appendix C - Activating The Omnistar Dgps Service

    L-band Receiver Unit Number To use the OmniSTAR service, your receiver must be operating in OmniSTAR mode with a valid subscription. In order to subscribe your RX 400p receiver’s internal OmniSTAR sensor, you must know its unit number. To determine the unit number of the internal L-band DGPS receiver inside your RX...

  • Page 144: Omnistar Service Activation

    10.2 OmniSTAR Service Activation You may activate the OmniSTAR DGPS service for your RX 400p receiver by contacting the service provider in your region. Contact OmniSTAR with your unit number and they will activate your subscription over the air. Please be ready to have your receiver ready to receive the OmniSTAR signal for subscription validation.
  • Page 145 RX 400p Figure C-1 OmniSTAR Coverage Map Table C-1 OmniSTAR Contact Information Location Telephone Numbers Fax Numbers North America +1-888-883-8476 +1-713-780-9408 Europe and North Africa +31-70-311-1151 +31-71-581-4719 Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa +61-89-322-5295 +61-8-9322-4164 Central America and South America...

  • Page 146: Over-Air Subscription Activation

    10.3 Over-Air Subscription Activation OmniSTAR will activate the subscription within your RX 400p receiver over the air. The OmniSTAR L-band DGPS receiver inside your RX 400p will automatically lock onto the OmniSTAR service even if your subscription has not yet been activated.
  • Page 147 Frequency MSK rate Location Transmitting ID Reference station ID Field Strength Operating notes This document is viewable within your Internet browser, however, if you require a faxed copy of this information, contact your MID-TECH dealer or MID-TECH Sales. 11-1 98-05044...
  • Page 148 RX 400p Further Reading National Marine Electronics Association, National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA 0183) Standard for Interfacing Marine Electronic Devices, Version 2.1, October 15, NMEA 1995, PO Box 50040, Mobile Alabama, 36605 USA Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services, RTCM Recommended Standards for Differential NAVSTAR GPS Service, Version 2.2, Developed by...
  • Page 149 Background Search (beacon), 2-6 Bar Chart Beacon Mode, 4-13 Global Search (beacon), 2-5 External RTCM Input, 4-13 Grounding OmniSTAR Mode, 4-12 RX 400P, 1-4 WAAS Mode, 4-12 Baud Rate, 1-7, 2-7, 4-75, 9-2, 9-3, 9-4 Beacon Receiver Performance, 2-6 Height 12-1...
  • Page 150 Beacon Signal?Status@ Menu, 4-58 Beacon@ Menu, 4-56 Installation Configure@ Menu, 4-33 CDA-2B, 1-7 Difstatus@ Menu, 4-49 RX 400P, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5 Display Apps@ Menu, 4-69 Display Format@ Menu, 4-69 DSP_ARM@ Menu, 4-28 External DGPS Source Icon, 4-5 Keypad, 4-1...
  • Page 151 OmniSTAR Subscription, 10-2, 10-4 Universal Time (UTC), 4-34 Power Cable Fuse, 1-4 Velocity, 4-21 RX 400P Rear Panel Interface, 1-2 RX 400P Receiver Display, 4-1 WAAS Installation, 1-2 Bit Error Rate, 2-3 Keypad, 4-1Menu System Navigation, 4-2 Receiver Performance, 2-3 WGS-84, 4-19, 4-20 www.csi-dgps.com, xvi...

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