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Nautel NX300 Operation And Maintenance Manual

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See also: Installation Manual
NX300 Transmitter
Operations and Maintenance
Manual
Document: NHB-NX300-OPS-3.0
Issue:
3.0 2012-11-01
Status:
Standard

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Summary of Contents for Nautel NX300

  • Page 1 NX300 Transmitter Operations and Maintenance Manual Document: NHB-NX300-OPS-3.0 Issue: 3.0 2012-11-01 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 2012 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Table of contents Contents Release control record Description Ac-dc power stage Exciter stage Control/monitor stage RF power stage RF output network Operating the transmitter Using the AUI Home page - describing the first page 2-17...
  • Page 6 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Table of contents Routine maintenance Scheduled maintenance Replacing a damaged air filter Performing on-air checks Replacing the control/interface PWB battery Inspecting lightning protection systems Non-standard maintenance Upgrading software List of terms Page vi Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...

  • Page 7: Release Control Record

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Release control record Issue Date Reason 2012-11-01 Release 3 of product (NARA54B) Software Release NX4.0 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page vii...
  • Page 8 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Page viii Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...

  • Page 9: Description

    NX300 electrical schematics Some descriptions in this section refer to electrical schematics (SD-#s) . These are located at the end of the NX300 Troubleshooting Manual. Redundancy The NX300 features redundancy in all key systems: • RF power modules • Exciters •...

  • Page 10: Exciter Stage

    (+48 V, +15 V and +12 V) are distributed throughout the transmitter via the rack interface PWB. Ac power transformer The NX300’s power transformer can be set to use a range of input voltages. See Section 4, “Connecting transformer taps/load wiring” on page 4-1 in the NX300 Installation Manual.
  • Page 11 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Figure 1.1: Exciter Stage Audio/ IBOC RF Drive (A) Audio/ Inputs Digital AM IBOC/ RF Drive 1 PDM (A) 1-9 Exciter A RF Drive Inputs RF Drive 2 Distribution RF Drive (B) Digital AM...

  • Page 12: Control/Monitor Stage

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description distribution The control/interface PWB (A11A1) accepts the PDM (1 through 9) signals from the digital AM exciter PWBs (A and B) and splits the active exciter PDM signals for application to each cabinet’s PDM distribution PWB (A17). The PDM distribution PWB accepts each signal from the control/ interface PWB and splits it into two (+ and -) opposite logic outputs that are provided to the RF power stage.

  • Page 13: Rf Output Network

    See electrical schematics SD-4 , SD-5 and SD-6 . The RF power stage includes all of the transmitter’s 10 kW RF power blocks. The NX300 contains 30 RF power blocks - ten in each of its three cabinets. Each RF power block contains four RF power modules and associated relays, a fan tray, and connections to the RF drive distribution PWB, PDM distribution PWB and rack interface PWB.
  • Page 14 RF 60 (-) Forward Power Sample RF 61 (+) Reflected Power Sample RF 61 (-) RF 120 (+) RF Current Sample RF 120 (-) NOTE: The NX300 has 120 RF power modules, which are series combined. Page 1-6 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 15 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description VSWR protection The transmitter uses an advanced DSP based VSWR protection system. Circuitry in the RF output network (see Figure 1.3 on page 1-6) samples the RF voltage and RF current at the input to the harmonic filter.
  • Page 16 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Figure 1.4: Shutback Event Page 1-8 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 17 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Figure 1.5: Cutback Recovery Time Average reflected power foldback 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.
  • Page 18 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Description Page 1-10 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 19 NX100 Operations and Maintenance Manual NX Series Transmitter Block Diagram ExGine Embedded ExGine Embedded Mod Drive Mod Drive 2.5kW 2.5kW IBOC Generator IBOC Generator EtoX IP Stream EtoX IP Stream Mod Drive Mod Drive Program Inputs, Program Inputs, 2.5kW 2.5kW AES/EBU, AES/EBU, Analog L&R, I&Q...

  • Page 20: Operating The Transmitter

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Section 2: Operating the transmitter This section provides information about operating the NX300 transmitter: • Using the AUI - see page 2-2 • Home page - describing the first page - see page 2-17 •...

  • Page 21: Using The Aui

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Using the AUI The NX300 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.
  • Page 22 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Information is displayed in a series of pages (screens) that serve specific transmitter functions. The AUI has the following configurable displays: • Instrumentation panels (“Instrument Panels - viewing displays” on page 2-27) •...
  • Page 23 In the User field, enter the username. Default is “Nautel”. • In the Password field, enter the password. Default is blank. : The Nautel AUI is factory configured with a default login username and password. Nautel NOTE recommends that you change the password to improve overall system security. See “Changing the...
  • Page 24 Menu HOME PAGE (Return to) (see page 2-18) Home (see page 2-17) User Accounts Create/Remove User Presets (see page 2-66) General (see page 2-48) Change Password Analog Settings Set User Type/Permissions Status Digital Settings (see page 2-64 Audio Loss Changeover (see page 2-106)
  • Page 25 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 26 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Describing the AUI layout The AUI begins with the page (Figure 2.4) and all navigation starts from this screen. Home Figure 2.4: Home Page Forward Power Active Preset Selected Scheduler Reflected Power...
  • Page 27 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Displays information about the active preset (transmission mode, frequency, Transmitter : set point, forward power and reflected power). Press Menu > Presets (bottom panel) to open the page and edit this information (“Presets - editing operational settings”...
  • Page 28 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Navigating from page to page You navigate through the AUI screens from the page or from the page (Figure 2.5). Home Menu page is the first screen to appear when you login into the AUI. You can return to this page Home from any AUI screen by pressing the logo (upper left corner) or by selecting Menu >...
  • Page 29 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Summarizing the AUI pages identifies the available AUI pages. Table 2.1 AUI Page Function See Page Home (first page) Displays an overview of transmitter features, including various meters and instrument panels. Choose options and navigate to other pages.
  • Page 30 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Page Function See Page Instrument Panels Choose the instrument panel option(s). 16 options are 2-27 available. Up to four screens can appear on one page. (available via local or remote operation) System Review Choose meters for display.
  • Page 31 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Page Function See Page Scheduler Create and edit scheduler rules. 2-61 (available via local operation or remote operation) Transmitter Status View transmitter’s active faults. 2-64 (available via local or remote operation) User Accounts Set user permission rights and define user accounts.
  • Page 32 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Page Function See Page User Settings Set network information, configure email and alarm 2-71 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..
  • Page 33 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Page Function See Page Precorrection Settings Control various critical parameter functions using the 2-97 Precorrection page (available via local or remote operation) Changeovers Set the main exciter and auto exciter changeover 2-106 functions..
  • Page 34 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AUI Page Function See Page Remote I/O Define remote digital inputs and outputs. 2-116 (available via local or remote operation) Playlist Manager Manage the audio playlist files. 2-121 (available via local or...

  • Page 35: Home Page - Describing The

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Home page - describing the first page page (Figure 2.6) is the first screen to appear after you log into the AUI. It contains the Home images that were last viewed in the AUI, from the previous login session.

  • Page 36: Menu Page - Describing Transmitter Operations

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Menu page - describing transmitter operations page displays icons that link to pages that control various transmitter operations Menu (Figure 2.7). Press in the “bottom panel” of an AUI screen to open this window of options.
  • Page 37 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Press to control various critical functions related to precorrection, Precorrection Settings (“Precorrection Settings page” on page 2-97). • Press to access a page that displays a list of users with access to the AUI...

  • Page 38: Viewing Transmitter Log

    [Controller, Exciter, Rack or PM (power module)], and the time of occurrence. A maximum of five batches (10,000 items) are stored on the AUI. Older items are discarded. Refer to the NX300 Troubleshooting Manual to cross-reference the alarm name to possible causes and troubleshooting tips.
  • Page 39 –two red ! indicates high severity (RF output is inhibited)]. • Time of Event indicates the time and date that the event occurred. Managing the Log You can manage the NX300 AUI’s events log by clicking on the button (see Log Manager Figure 2.9).
  • Page 40 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.9: Log Manager options (Filter Logs shown) Filter 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).
  • Page 41 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Copy 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).
  • Page 42 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Delete 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 2-24). Click the Delete All checkbox and click to delete all events.
  • Page 43 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Statistics You can view statistical information on the events being displayed by clicking on the Statistics button in the log manager (see Figure ). The screen groups similar events that occurred Statistics within the filtered period as well as the time and date of the earliest and latest event occurrence for each event type.
  • Page 44 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Legend 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 State and Severity columns of the page.

  • Page 45: Instrument Panels - Viewing Displays

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Instrument Panels - viewing displays The central area of the page displays up to four panels of instrument information. You can Home choose which panels to display from 12 possible information panels (Figure 2.14).
  • Page 46 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Table 2.1: Tool Menu Panels Tool Description See Page Spectrum Displays a spectrum analyzer, capable of monitoring the 2-29 transmitter’s RF output spectrum and the spectrum of the signal generated by the exciter.
  • Page 47 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.15: Spectrum Analyzer Minimize Cursor Cursor Peak (Maximize) Right Left Close Figure 2.15. The carrier level is normalized to its unmodulated level at Spectrum analyzer. 0 dB. The graph center is always at the carrier frequency, as defined by the Exciter’s set Frequency value.
  • Page 48 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 49 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter The NX300’s exciter includes a fixed equalizer to optimize audio perfomance. Equalizer screens. There are three menus available in the tool menu panels - EQ Frequency (see Figure 2.17), EQ Impulse Response (see Figure 2.18 on page...
  • Page 50 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 EQ impulse response Figure 2.18. This panel displays the impulse response of the modulator’s EQ filter.
  • Page 51 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.19: EQ Filter Delay Figure 2.19. This panel displays the delay of the modulator’s EQ filter across its EQ filter delay. 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.
  • Page 52 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter The exciter linearizes the transmitter’s magnitude AM-AM and AM-PM correction screens. (envelope) path and drive signal by using two correction parameters - AM-AM Correction (see Figure 2.20) and AM-PM Correction (see Figure 2.21 on page 2-35), which can be viewed as tool menu panels.
  • Page 53 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.21: AM-PM Correction This panel displays the phase correction being applied to the RF drive signal. AM-PM correction. The x-axis represents the signal amplitude and the y-axis represents the phase shift correction applied for a given amplitude value.
  • Page 54 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.22: Signal Constellation Figure 2.22. In IBOC mode only, the exciter constantly measures the Signal constellation. transmitter signal and performs basic demodulation of the digital carriers. The Signal Constellation panel displays the phase and amplitude of the symbols being modulated within an OFDM sub-carrier as dots on a cartesian graph.
  • Page 55 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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) Lissajous plot. and R (right) audio content or a representation of the digital modulation signal [I (in-phase) and Q (quadrature)].
  • Page 56 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.24: Smith Chart Cursor Cursor Zoom Minimize Right Left (Maximize) Zoom Close Figure 2.24. The Smith Chart allows you to visualize the impedance of the Smith chart. 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 57 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 Modulation levels.
  • Page 58 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.26: Audio Inputs Figure 2.26. Bar graphs display the amplitude (in dB) of the audio inputs selected Audio inputs. in the preset. The level shown in yellow represents the currently measured peak amplitude, with the RMS level shown in green.
  • Page 59 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.27: Power Distribution Graph Cursor Cursor Minimize Right Left (Maximize) Close Figure 2.24. The exciter measures the relative power levels of the Power distribution graph. signal and determines the probability of exceeding a given power level, relative to the average power.

  • Page 60: Meters Page - Viewing Real-Time Meters

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Meters page - viewing real-time meters The AUI displays many metered parameters on the page (right side) (Figure 2.28). This Home section includes the following topics: • Describing the meter display •...
  • Page 61 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Accessing meter information • To delete a meter from the page, press the in the left-hand corner of the meter in Home the “Meters” window (right side). • To review all the meter options, press the information button (magnifying glass) at the top of...
  • Page 62 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 2-44, Figure 2.31 on page 2-45, Figure 2.32 on page 2-45...
  • Page 63 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.31: Meters - Information Display for the Exciter Figure 2.32: Meters - Information Display for Rack 1 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-45...
  • Page 64 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 NOTE: not necessarily the same as their physical location in the transmitter.
  • Page 65 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Saving meter list Meter lists are associated with user accounts. Lists saved in this screen are only displayed in the NOTE: 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 66: Presets - Editing Operational Settings

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Presets - editing operational settings page (see Figure 2.35) allows you to view operational data (power level, frequency, Presets mode, program input characteristics), plus create and control preset settings. You can create up to 62 presets or edit existing presets.
  • Page 67 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Activating Presets In the Transmitter 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 Activate Preset window will appear, which contains a list of all preset options.
  • Page 68 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter In the top banner, an asterisk (*) appears next to the preset name when the Current Settings have changed since the last preset was loaded. Current Settings are not saved through an ac power cycle;...
  • Page 69 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Understanding the preset tabs page consists of tabs across the top with functions on the left-side and parameters Presets displayed in the center and right-side of the window. A separate display appears for each of the...
  • Page 70 AMSS - Amplitude Modulation Signalling System. Allows low-bit rate data to be transmitted with the • Analog AM signal. Contact Nautel for assistance with using AMSS. Default is OFF. Page 2-52 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 71 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AES Input Level - Defines the AES input level (in dBFS) that will result in 100% modulation depth. Set • between -30 dBFS and 0 dBFS, according to the input signal level.
  • Page 72 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.37: Presets - Analog Settings Figure 2.38: Presets - Digital Settings Figure 2.39: Presets Tabs - Audio Loss Page 2-54 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 73 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Preset examples - IBOC preset The following examples shows you how to set presets for the IBOC applications with typical values: 1. Enter field with desired power level. Output Power 2. Set...
  • Page 74 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Preset examples - IBOC preset with analog backup 1. Set two presets similar to the two previous examples. 2. Under Audio Loss , set Mod Loss Timeout . Several other selectable fields will appear.
  • Page 75 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Selecting the DCC mode The NX300 is capable of several DCC modes (see "Editing or Creating Presets", on page 2-49), each with varying performance in terms of energy savings and effects on the reproduced signal. The selectable options are: •...
  • Page 76 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.41: EAMC Figure 2.42: Basic DAM Page 2-58 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 77 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.43: Full DAM Figure 2.44: DCC1 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-59...
  • Page 78 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Guidelines for selecting the DCC mode: Observe the following guidelines when selecting the DCC mode for your application. AMC mode (see Figure 2.40 on page 2-57) should work well for most broadcasters and is generally recommended if you have an IBOC transmission.

  • Page 79: Preset Scheduler

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Preset Scheduler If the scheduler is enabled (see "Enabling the Scheduler", on page 2-63), you can program a preset schedule for the transmitter. Use the page (see Figure 2.45) to set the dates and times at Scheduler which presets take effect.
  • Page 80 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Editing scheduler rules When you click in the Rules list, you have the option to edit or delete an existing rule, or to create a new rule (up to a maximum of 144 rules). Click the...
  • Page 81 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Enabling the Scheduler You can enable or disable the scheduler by clicking the button in the Date & Time Scheduler section (see Figure 2.47). Figure 2.47: Enabling/disabling the scheduler Top banner of the AUI Scheduler field (toggles Off/On) When Scheduler: ON appears in green, the transmitter will follow the Scheduler settings.

  • Page 82: Status - Viewing Transmitter Status

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Status - viewing transmitter status You can view the operational status of the transmitter using the Page (see Figure 2.48). This Status page shows current active alarms to aid in fault diagnosis.
  • Page 83 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Viewing alarm details page displays a table that lists the active alarm details under the following Transmitter Status columns: • - identifies the alarms by their originating device (e.g., Controller, Exciter A, etc.) Device •...

  • Page 84: User Accounts

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter User Accounts page allows you to set up user accounts and assign different levels of access to User Accounts the transmitter control operations (see Figure 2.50). Any user may change their password, but only Administrators may add users and edit permissions.
  • Page 85 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.51: User Accounts Page Layout Administrator Full Control View Only Auto Login Custom Users Permissions Types of users You assign a user type to identify the permissions available to that user. All users have permission to...
  • Page 86 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Adding a user You must be an Administrator to use this function. Procedure to add a user (see Figure 2.51 on page 2-67): 1. Open the page. User Accounts 2. Press (bottom of the screen) to open a small window.
  • Page 87 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Changing permissions You must be an Administrator to edit this function. All users have permission to change their own username and password (see Figure 2.51). You can customize the permissions assigned to a user or simply pick a predetermined set of permissions based on the user type.
  • Page 88 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting autologin status (local only) You must be an Administrator to edit this function. Ths setting defines which account will be automatically entered on the local AUI. If no account is set for...

  • Page 89: User Settings

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter User Settings page (see Figure 2.52) allows you to modify various custom user settings such as User Settings network settings and email notification settings. Figure 2.52: User Settings Page This section includes the following topics: •...
  • Page 90 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting up the network page (see Figure 2.52) allows you configure parameters for connecting the AUI Network Setup to your network. Modify network settings as follows: Figure 2.53: User Settings - Setting up the Network 1.
  • Page 91 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Subnet Mask - Masks an IP address, and divides the IP address into network address and host • address (normally set to 255.255.255.0) Default Gateway - Defines the address of the network access point.
  • Page 92 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Email Configuration page (see Figure 2.54) allows you to configure email parameters (e.g., Email Configuration server name and port number). Figure 2.54: User Settings - Configuring Email Procedure to configure emails: 1. Open the page by pressing Menu >...
  • Page 93 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Transmittter Name - Enter an identification for the transmitter/station (e.g., NX300_WXYZ). This name will be included in notifiaction emails. • Sender Email Address - Enter as a standard email address (e.g., a@b.com), This is the address that will appear in the “From:”...
  • Page 94 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Notifications page (see Figure 2.55) allows you to configure the email notifications that are sent Notifications to represent upon user-selected alarm occurrences. Figure 2.55: User Settings - Notifications Add a notification notification devices...
  • Page 95 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Select an existing notification and press to remove a notification from the list. Delete The window that opens for both allows you to edit a notification Update name, a recipient email address, and the notification device. Use the arrows ( >>...
  • Page 96 E2X traffic in case multiple exporters are used in broadcast mode on a single LAN. 0.0.0.0 is also a valid configuration • E2X Port - The exgine expects E2X on port 9000. Some non-Nautel Exporters utilize port 11000 instead. Mac Address - Displays a number that serves as unique network adapter identifier. This is set by •...
  • Page 97 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 4. In the Mode tab (see Figure 2.57), enter the following parameters and press Apply Default Service Mode - select MA1 or MA3 • • Digital Carriers - select On or Off •...
  • Page 98 Lower Primary Level Adjust - Adjusts the power level of the lower sideband within the range of • +20dB and -100 dB. Should be zero by default. Figure 2.58: User Settings - Exgine Settings - Tuning Tab Refer to the NX300 Troubleshooting Manual for examples of the Exgine interface menu screens. Page 2-80 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...
  • Page 99 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter SNMP Configuration The SNMP configuration page provides a user with a means to configure the SNMP agent and the associated traps (see Figure 2.59). Figure 2.59: User Settings - SNMP Configuration - Agent Tab...
  • Page 100 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Trap Receiver IP : Enter the IP address of the computer to which the SNMP agent will send trap notifications. The computer must be running an SNMP application that is configured to receive traps. The SNMP agent will send trap notifications to at most one receiver.
  • Page 101 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Critical Parameters 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 Critical Parameters page (see Figure 2.61). To view this page, select Critical Parameters from the User Settings page.
  • Page 102 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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 page contains editable fields for the date...
  • Page 103 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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.
  • Page 104 Operating the transmitter NTP Servers You can configure one or more NTP (Network Time Protocol) servers to allow clock synchronization with all computers on the same network as the NX300. To view the AUI’s NTP Servers page (see Figure 2.63), select NTP Servers from the User Settings options. There are several functions available on this page - enabling NTP, monitoring NTP server status and managing servers.
  • Page 105 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter daemon. A ‘+” character in the first column marks high quality candidates for the reference time that could be used if the currently selected reference becomes unavailable. • IP : Displays the IP address associated with the Remote Name . In some cases the Remote Name could be the IP address.
  • Page 106 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Setting call sign/ID The Call Sign/ID screen (see Figure 2.64) 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., “NX200”).

  • Page 107: System Settings Page

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter System Settings page You determine critical system configuration parameters using the page (see System Settings Figure 2.65), which you access from the Menu page. This section includes the following topics: • "Reset", on page 2-90 •...

  • Page 108: System Settings Page

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Reset page (see Figure 2.66) allows you to reboot two items - the AUI and the active exciter. Reset Figure 2.66: System Settings - Reset Procedure to reset the AUI or Exciter: 1.
  • Page 109 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Screen configuration page (see Figure 2.67), available on the local AUI only, allows you to Screen Configuration perform a calibration on the touchscreen and to configure a screen saver for the local AUI.
  • Page 110 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Upgrade software page allows for uploading software upgrade files for various transmitter Upgrade Software 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.
  • Page 111 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. The frequency and phase 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 mHz (0.002 Hz) using...
  • Page 112 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 3. Select Frequency in the Sync Enable drop-down menu. 4. Select the appropriate source ( 10MHz Sync Input or GPS Sync Card ) in the Sync Source drop-down menu. RF Monitor Level...
  • Page 113 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Power Lockout page (see Figure 2.72) allows you to set a high power limit for the transmitter. Power Lockout 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.
  • Page 114 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Power Thresholds page (see Figure 2.72) allows you to set two distinct low forward power Power Thresholds 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...

  • Page 115: Precorrection Settings Page

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Precorrection Settings page You control various critical parameter functions using the page(see Figure 2.73), Precorrection which you access from the page . Menu These settings will normally be generated at the factory, based on the desired modes of NOTE: operation, and should not require user adjustment.
  • Page 116 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Mag-Phase Delay page (see Figure 2.74) allows for setting the difference in delay between the Mag-Phase Delay 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 117 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter B+ Setpoint page (see Figure ) allows you to identify the B+ Setpoint (nominally 400 V). This B+ Setpoint value does not normally require user adjustment. Figure 2.75: Precorrection - B+ setpoint...
  • Page 118 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AM-AM Correction page (see Figure 2.76) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-AM AM-AM Correction correction curves. You can curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When...
  • Page 119 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter AM-PM Correction page (see Figure 2.77) allows you to load or capture a set of AM-PM AM-PM Correction correction curves. You can Load or curves in this list; you can also capture a curve. When you...
  • Page 120 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Envelope Equalization page (see Figure 2.78) allows you to load or capture a set of envelope Envelope Equalization equalization curves. You can curves in the list; you can also capture a curve. When...
  • Page 121 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Configurations page (see Figure 2.79) allows users to group the parameters that appear within Configurations the Precorrection Settings menu. Figure 2.79: Precorrection - Configurations Edit button appears for local users in Local mode or for remote users in Remote mode.
  • Page 122 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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.
  • Page 123 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Exciter Synchronization page (see Figure 2.80) displays correction curve and configuration Exciter Synchronization 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 124: Changeover Page - Changing Exciter Transfer Settings

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Changeover page - changing exciter transfer settings page (see Figure 2.81), accessed from the page, allows control of exciter Changeover Menu auto-changeover. Figure 2.81: Changeover Page On this page, set the following exciter information: •...

  • Page 125: Factory Settings

    WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment. These settings affect critical system protections. Making changes to these settings may void your warranty. Contact Nautel before making changes. For future reference, record a parameter value before and after making a change.
  • Page 126 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Audio Inputs page (see Figure 2.83) displays the measured level of the Balanced Analog source Audio Inputs (in dBm). The balanced calibration field allows for establishing a reference from a known source.
  • Page 127 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter B+ Calibration page (see Figure 2.84) displays the measured B+ levels, the B+ Limit Setpoint B+ Calibration (high voltage alarm level; nominally 420 V) and a calibration box. The B+ calibration value allows you to enter a measured B+ voltage to calibrate the B+ based on an externally measured B+ level.
  • Page 128 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 129 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter RF Symmetry page (see Figure 2.86) allows entering RF symmetry values for exciter A or B to RF Symmetry attempt to minimize second harmonic content when operating on each exciter. Values are factory set and should not require adjustment.
  • Page 130 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter SWR Thresholds page (see Figure 2.87) displays the Peak Reflected Limit , RMS Reflected SWR Thresholds Limit and the Peak RF Current Limit . Value changes are not typically required. WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment.
  • Page 131 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Transmitter Type page (see Figure 2.88) displays the selected transmitter type. The selection is Transmitter Type based on the power capacity of the transmitter and is set at the factory during testing.
  • Page 132 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Transmitter Frequency page (see Figure 2.89) displays the precise carrier frequency of the Transmitter Frequency transmitter. Do not change the carrier frequency unless you are performing a frequency change procedure. WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment.
  • Page 133 Phase Calibration may be required after replacing or moving RF power modules. See the “Replacing a Power Module” section of the NX300 Troubleshooting Manual for more information. WARNING: Factory settings are established at the factory and should not require any adjustment.

  • Page 134: Remote I/O Page

    Click X in the upper, right corner to close this page and return to the home page. Refer also to the NX300 Pre-installation Manual for information on remote inputs and outputs and their factory default settings.
  • Page 135 . That setting can only be selected by a local user Remote using the front panel AUI. Nautel sets digital input defaults prior to shipping. See the NX300 Pre-installation Manual for details. If necessary, re-configure the digital inputs as follows: Figure 2.92: Remote I/O Input Parameters...
  • Page 136 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter • Scheduler On/Off - enables/disables the automatic mode scheduler. • Max Power Lockout 1 - 8 - selects the associated power lockout limit (1 - 8) as active (functions regardless of local/remote mode).
  • Page 137 Nautel sets digital output defaults prior to shipping. See the NX300 Pre-installation Manual for details. If necessary, re-configure the digital outputs as follows: Figure 2.93: Remote I/O - Output Parameters...
  • Page 138 • - Active logic level indicates that the selected alarm is occurring. Any Various Alarms transmitter alarm can be selected as a digital output. Refer to the NX300 Troubleshooting Manual for a description of each alarm. • - Active logic level indicates that a watchdog reset is occurring, due to an AUI Watchdog error in communication between the Controller and the single-board computer.

  • Page 139: Playlist Manager

    Menu page options. Using the audio player in the NX300 requires the installation of the optional USB sound card. This converts the streamed audio to a USB port on the single-board computer (SBC) to an AES stream that can be connected to an AES input on the control card.
  • Page 140 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 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.
  • Page 141 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.95: Managing Playlist files Remote mode only Issue 3.0 2012-11-01 Page 2-123...
  • Page 142 Operating the transmitter Streams The NX300 is capable of playing audio streams in either Icecast or Shoutcast format. The audio player supports Icecast/Shoutcast playlists and IP addresses for audio streams. For an Icecast/Shoutcast playlist enter the URL for the station. For an audio stream, enter the URL for that stream.
  • Page 143 2. If you are editing an audio stream, enter the appropriate information for the audio server (Name and URL for Icecast/Shoutcast). Make sure the NX300 can access the location. 3. Click OK to either edit or delete the audio stream, or click Cancel to discard changes.

  • Page 144: Using The Key-Controlled Access System

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Using the key-controlled access system The NX300 high power transmitter is equipped with a key controlled interlock system (Figure 2.97 on page 2-129) to ensure operator safety. The transmitter’s rear doors must be closed and locked before ac power to the transmitter can be turned on.
  • Page 145 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Opening access panels Procedure to gain access to the inside of the transmitter: 1. Turn off the safety interlock switch or the ac breaker at the ac power-entrance panel (see "Guidelines (1): ac power entrance panel", on page 2-128).
  • Page 146 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter 5. Insert the SERVICE ENTRANCE KEY (‘A’ key) into the ac power entrance (see "Guidelines (1): ac power entrance panel", on page 2-128) and turn the key clockwise. Move the safety interlock switch or the ac power entrance’s breaker to the ON position.
  • Page 147 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Figure 2.97: Key Sequence Diagram ACCESS LOCK KEYS (quantity 6) “C” IN “C” IN “C” IN “C” IN “C” IN “C” IN “B” IN “A” IN 6 “C’s” OUT “B” OUT TRANSFER...
  • Page 148 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Operating the transmitter Page 2-130 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...

  • Page 149: Routine Maintenance

    “Replacing a damaged air filter” on page 3-2. 2. Clean the NX300 using a vacuum cleaner and a soft-bristle brush to remove loose dirt. Clean, damp rags should be used to remove dirt that cannot be removed with a vacuum cleaner.

  • Page 150: Replacing A Damaged Air Filter

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Checking hardware All hardware must be checked at least once a year. Thermal cycling from turning the NX300 on and off will require more frequent checks. • To prevent damaging the hardware, ensure that the proper sized tools are used. In most cases, hardware is metric.

  • Page 151: Performing On-Air Checks

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance 3. Unpack the new filter and inspect it for damage. 4. Remove the old filter. 5. Apply filter coat spray (originally supplied with the transmitter) to the replacement filter. 6. Insert the new air filter into the bracket, with the sprayed side facing you.

  • Page 152: Replacing The Control/Interface Pwb Battery

    Interval Every 12 months. Parts and tools Replacement battery. 3 V lithium coin cell, 20 mm (Nautel Part # BBLT01, Panasonic # Panasonic CR2032). Procedure Perform the following steps to replace the battery: 1. Ensure ac power is being applied to the transmitter.

  • Page 153: Inspecting Lightning Protection Systems

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Inspecting lightning protection systems You should inspect the lightning protection systems that are connected to your NX300 transmitter, ac power, RF feedline, antenna and tower periodically to ensure that your site, equipment and personnel are fully protected.
  • Page 154 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Routine maintenance Page 3-6 Issue 3.0 2012-11-01...

  • Page 155: Non-Standard Maintenance

    Upgrade File list (should highlight in blue) and click Details . Note the current software revision for Audio Player, AUI, Controller, Exciter, Rack and Cube. 2. Contact Nautel for the most recent software revision and download *.tgz file to a laptop or network location.
  • Page 156 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance Transferring Upgrade File 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. Transmitter IP Configuration 1.
  • Page 157 3. At the transmitter login screen enter: – User: “Nautel” or “****”, where **** is the user assigned user name – Password: leave blank (default) or “****”, where **** is the user assigned password 4. Navigate through the AUI to Menu -> System Settings -> Upgrade Software , select the Manage Files button and press Browse .
  • Page 158 NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual Non-standard maintenance 4. This completes the software upgrade. Restore the former network settings on the transmitter and laptop as required (see Step 2 “Transmitter IP Configuration” on page 4-2). 5. Login and repeat Step 1 “Preliminary Checks”...

  • Page 159: List Of Terms

    NX300 Operations and Maintenance Manual List of terms Section 5: List of terms This section defines some of the terms that are used in Nautel documentation. Analog to Digital Converter. ADC. Audio Engineering Society/European Broadcasting Union (AES/EBU) is the name of a AES-EBU.
  • Page 160 Preset. 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). The NX300 allows you to pre-program multiple presets. A complete loss of RF output power, caused by any one of a variety of faults, including Shutback.

  • Page 162: Issue 3.0 2012-11-01

    Phone: +1.902.823.3900 or Fax: +1.902.823.3183 Nautel Inc. 201 Target Industrial Circle Bangor, Maine USA 04401 Phone: +1.207.947.8200 Fax: +1.207.947.3693 Customer Service (24-hour support) +1.877.628.8353 (Canada & USA only) +1.902.823.5100 (International) Email: support@nautel.com Web: www.nautel.com © Copyright 2013 NAUTEL. All rights reserved.

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