BAE Systems 81FCGX First InterComm VCA100 model 81FCGX User Manual 07 f57 VCA100usermanual indd

BAE Systems First InterComm VCA100 model 81FCGX 07 f57 VCA100usermanual indd

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1. User manual
2. Installation guide

User manual

ELECTRONICS & INTEGRATED SOLUTIONSFirst InterComm™ systemVCA100 user manualA29798 September 2008

About BAE SystemsBAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company, delivering a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions, and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, the company had 2007 sales that exceeded $31.4 billion.The information contained in this manual is the property of BAE Systems and is intended for the purchaser's use only.It may not be reproduced without the express written consent of BAE Systems.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 iList of illustrations iList of tables iWarnings and precautions iiWelcome to First InterComm system 1First InterComm system overview 1The First InterComm system in action 2Operating the First InterComm system 5 Start-up 5 Vehicle location 5 Signal relay (hopping) 7Troubleshooting 8First InterComm system component descriptions 8 The VCA100 unit 8 Power-on-built-in test (PBIT) 9 Mobile radio antennas 9 Wireless antenna 9Appendix A VCA100 specifications 10Appendix B Acronyms and abbreviations 11BAE Systems contact information 12Companion documentation 12Table of contents Figure 1 The First InterComm system in action 2 Figure 2 The incident area network (IAN) expands or contracts as needed 3 Figure 3 The First InterComm system enhanced by the optional Talk Group software 4 Figure 4 Area geometry or physical features can affect talk range 6 Figure 5 LOS obstructions prevent communications 7 Figure 6 First InterComm system range is extended by "hopping" 7 Figure 7 VCA100 front panel connectors 9 Table 1 VCA100 troubleshooting procedures 8List of illustrationsList of tables

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008iiCompliance — This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Proper installation does not guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular situation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception (which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on), the user is encouraged to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.– Increase the separation between the equipment and affected receiver.– Connect equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.– Consult an experienced radio/TV technician for help.Radio frequency (RF) exposure compliance — The First InterComm system generates and uses RF energy. Pursuant to FCC rules for the maximum permissible RF exposure, the antenna(s) specified in this manual MUST be installed so as to provide a separation distance of at least 18 inches (45 cm) from all persons. The unit may not be used to transmit for more than 50 percent of the time (average duty cycle over a 30-minute period).Users must not change the antenna types or their location at the risk of voiding the conditions of their FCC license and/or the conditions to which the product has been certified (consult your installer in these cases). Changes or modifications to the equipment may cause harmful interference unless the modifications are expressly approved in the installation manual. The authority to operate the equipment could be lost if an unauthorized change or modification is made.Warnings and precautionsFederal Communications Commission (FCC)

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 iii– DC power — Ensure power into the First InterComm system does not exceed 24 Vdc.– Explosive environments — Ensure the First InterComm system is turned off before entering a blasting area or in areas posted “TURN OFF TWO-WAY RADIO.” Sparks in a potentially explosive atmosphere can cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily injury or death.Warnings and precautions (continued)General precautionsNearly every electronic device is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) if inadequately designed, shielded, or otherwise configured for electromagnetic compatibility. It may be necessary to conduct compatibility testing to determine if any electronic equipment used in or around vehicles is sensitive to external RF energy, or if any procedures are needed to eliminate or mitigate the potential for interaction between the First InterComm system and other equipment or devices.– Facilities — To avoid EMI or compatibility conflicts, turn off the First InterComm system near any facility where posted notices so instruct, such as hospitals or healthcare facilities. – Vehicles — To avoid possible interaction between the First InterComm system and vehicle electronic control modules (such as antilock brakes and engine or transmission controls), the First InterComm system should be installed only by a professional installer only.– Pacemakers — To avoid potential interference with pacemaker functions, maintain a minimum separation of 12 inches between First InterComm system components (the VCA100 and associated antennas).Electromagnetic interference/compatibility

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008ivFirst InterComm system quick-start procedureArrive on scene At the incident scene, position First InterComm system-equipped vehicles within a maximum of a quarter mile clear line of sight (LOS) of each other at the incident scene.Power up Apply power to the First InterComm system with the cab-mounted switch.Change channel Switch radio equipment to the tactical channel on portable radio designated for First InterComm system interoperability.Talk Communicate using applicable standard operating procedures (SOP).

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 1Welcome to First InterComm™ systemprovided by the VCA100 and associated antennas alone.The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has designated the First InterComm system as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology under the SAFETY Act. The First InterComm system supports the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and is included in the Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism “Responders Knowledge Base” and the InterAgency Board's Standard Equipment List and Approved Equipment List.The First InterComm system enables the responding departments to operate within their SOP. It provides day-to-day voice interoperability at an incident scene and provides improved coordination of on-site first-responder personnel.This user manual contains a description of the First InterComm system and activation information to maximize its effectiveness.The First InterComm system allows first responders from different agencies at an emergency incident to readily communicate with one another, even though their radios operate on different frequencies (i.e., VHF, UHF or 800 MHz systems, both digital and analog). The First InterComm system can accommodate many newer communication technologies such as radio systems operating in the 700-MHz band, and P25-compliant equipment.Only one vehicle from each on-scene department is required to have a First InterComm system installed to enable linking of dissimilar radio networks. There is no requirement for special equipment, stand-alone towers, or other costly infrastructure.Talk Group software, an optional capability included with the First InterComm system, enables the incident commander, using a standard laptop computer with wired or wireless networking capability, to monitor system status and control communications. Talk Group significantly enhances the First InterComm system, but is not required for voice interoperability; the latter is First InterComm system overview– Compliant with commercial standards for radio communications and mesh networks. – Provides connectivity with civil and military communications systems.– Compatible with digital technology, supporting radio system upgrades.The First InterComm system consists of a Vehicle Communications Assembly (VCA100), a land mobile radio antenna, and a wireless antenna. Using standard 12-Vdc vehicle power the systems provides these features:– No setup time required; voice interoperability is automatically available within one minute of arriving on scene.– Responders use their existing radios; multiple radios are not required.– Responders require minimal training.– Scalable from routine to large incidents.NOTE– Talk Group software provides significant capability to the First InterComm system but is not required for voice interoperability.

2First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008Turning on two or more VCA100 units establishes an ad hoc wireless mesh incident area network (IAN). In Figure 1,the fire department, whose radios operate at 154.57 MHz, is talking to the police department, whose radios operate at 452.95 MHz. When a portable or mobile radio is keyed up, its voice transmission is translated into digital packets that are placed onto the IAN. Every VCA100 unit on the First InterComm network receives these digital packets, which are translated back into voice transmissions compatible with each handheld radio associated with the receiving VCA100.The First InterComm system in actionFigure 1. The First InterComm system in actionPUBS 07_F57-001154.57 MHz 452.95 MHzLMRGPSANETWORKPOWERETHERNETwww.FirstInterComm.comLMRGPSANETWORKPOWERETHERNETwww.FirstInterComm.com

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 3Figure 2. The incident area network expands or contracts as neededAs first responders arrive on scene and activate their VCA100s, the units automatically connect to one another. As the first responders are joined by other agencies (e.g., public health, disaster recovery, federal agencies, National Guard), their VCA100 units connect to the IAN, thus establishing cross-jurisdictional communication. This temporary IAN (Figure 2) exists as long as VCA100-equipped vehicles are present and can expand or contract as first responders enter or leave the area.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008PUBS 07_F57-012Default:All responders can talkWith software:Incident commander assigns who talks to whomFirstIntercomm™Talk GroupsoftwareFire suppressiontalk groupSupporttalk groupSecuritytalk groupInitialincident area network4Figure 3. The First InterComm system enhanced by the optional Talk Group software1Windows XP is a registered trademark of Microsoft CorporationAs numerous first responders are online, overall coordination is essential. The incident commander can assume control of the IAN via any laptop computer operating with the Windows XP®1 operating system with Service Pack 2 and equipped with wired or wireless networking capability and First InterComm Talk Group software(Figure 3). The Talk Group allows the incident commander to:– Establish sectors by frequency in accordance with NIMS.– Isolate any agency equipped with First InterComm units (e.g., fire, EMS, emergency management, public works, law enforcement) into the appropriate talk groups, thereby: – Supporting a chain of command. – Improving communications efficiency. – Increasing emergency responder safety.Refer to First InterComm system Talk Group software user manual(BAE Systems document No. A29800) for complete details on Talk Group software.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 5Operating the First InterComm systemVehicle locationStart-up1. Apply power to the VCA100 with the cab-mounted switch.2. Allow approximately one minute for the unit to initialize and connect to any other VCA100s in the area. Wireless signals weaken as they travel away from the transmitter. The First InterComm system operates up to a quarter mile between VCA100s, assuming a clear, unobstructed LOS. Buildings, hills, vegetation and other obstructions will reduce range as shown in Figure 4. Interference from metallic objects such as large trash 3. Switch radio equipment to the tactical channel on portable radio designated for First InterComm system interoperability.4. Communicate using the applicable SOP.receptacles and vehicles can degrade performance. Whenever possible, position VCA100-equipped vehicles to minimize such factors.RECOMMENDATIONDo not turn on the VCA100 unit until parked at the scene.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 20086Figure 4. Area geometry or physical features can affect talk rangePUBS 07 F57-006PUBS 07_F57-007PUBS 07_F57-008Heavy signal obstructionPoorer receptionOptimal: clear line of sight

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008PUBS 07_F57-010ABC7Figure 5 shows a generalized urban incident site where there is no LOS between vehicles A and B. Figure 6 showshow positioning vehicle C enables the First InterComm system to overcome these obstacles by “hopping” voice communications (i.e., passing communications through the units that do have LOS). Thus, all units can communicate even though not all have direct LOS.Figure 6. First InterComm range is extended by "hopping"Figure 5. LOS obstructions prevent communicationsPUBS 07_F57-009ABSignal relay (hopping)

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 20088Table 1. VCA100 troubleshooting proceduresIMPORTANT– If the First InterComm system appears to interfere with incident site operations, immediately turn off every VCA100 unit and Talk Group software in use and return to normal operating procedures.– If Talk Group software or laptop computer problems occur, the VCA100 units will remain in their assigned talk groups. If the laptop or Talk Group software is not functional and communication is needed among all responders, cycle power to all VCA100s. This entails turning off the power to the VCA100 and then repowering.Troubleshooting– Land mobile radio antenna matched to user’s existing radio network frequencies.– Remote on/off switch.– Talk Group software (optional capability).pre-designated interoperability channel to monitor or speak to members of other radio networks at the site. The specific VCA100 model is based on the radio frequencies used by the participating department (see Appendix A).The First InterComm system consists of:– VCA100 unit matched to user’s existing radio network frequencies.– Vehicle-mounted wireless antenna.The VCA100 unit (Figure 7) is vehicle- mounted and has no operator controls other than a remote power-on switch. Once the VCA100 is initialized, operations are transparent to the operator, responders need only set their radio equipment to the First InterComm system component descriptionsThe VCA100 unitProblem Action CommentsNo communications via First InterComm systems1. Verify indicator on power switch is lit. If not, verify that fuse is good. 2. Verify the activity indicator on VCA100 front panel is lit.3. Verify all communication devices are using the designated interoperability channel.4. Verify at least two VCA100s are in the incident area and power has been applied to the units for at least 60 seconds.5. Verify each VCA100 wireless antenna has clear LOS to other wireless antennas.6. Verify distance between VCA100 wireless antennas is a quarter mile or less.1. If the activity indicator is not easily viewed, a secondary power indication is an amber LED in the lower right corner of the Ethernet connector (Figure 7).2. If the fuse is good, but there is no power indication, contact maintenance personnel.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008 9Power-on built-in test (PBIT)The activity indicator displays the progress of the built-in tests that run during boot up of the VCA100. Once power is applied, the indicator will light for approximately 30 seconds, turn off for approximately 10 seconds, turn on again and remain on, indicating all tests passed. If the indicator does not illuminate the second time, PBIT has identified an out-of-tolerance condition Mobile radio antennasWireless antennaThis vehicle-mounted antenna matches the frequency range of its associated VCA100 unit and must be compatible with the user’s existing radio network.This vehicle-mounted antenna covers the 2.4-GHz to 2.5-GHz frequency range and is compatible with the VCA100.www.FirstInterComm.comVCA100First InterComm™LMR GPS ETHERNET POWERNETWORKAActivity IndicatorLMR Two-way radio antenna connection, TNCGPS Reserved for future implementationEthernet Factory use onlyPower Nominal 13.6 Vdc and 1.75A max On/off control is via cab-mounted switch toggle switchNetwork Wireless antenna port A, reverse polarity SMA connectorActivity indicator Power on built-in-test indicator lightFigure 7. VCA100 front panel connectors(e.g., temperature or voltage extremes). If the VCA100 had been exposed to temperatures below -20° C or above 60° Cwhen the symptom appeared, allowthe unit to reach an operating temperature within this range, cyclepower, and monitor for correct indications. If the symptoms persist, a fault is present and maintenance personnel should be contacted.

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 200810Appendix AVCA100 specificationsGeneralVCA100 configurationsDimensions 2.5” × 8.5” × 8.5” (H x W x D)Weight 4 pounds Input voltage 9 to 17 Vdc (13.6 Vdc nominal)Input current 1.75A maximum (at 13.6V)Input power connector 6-pin MolexFrequency Varies with modelTransmit power 5 to 6 watts in LMR band (typical)Connectors Network RP-SMA (SMA with male pin) LMR TNC with receptacle contact GPS SMA with receptacle contact (future option) Ethernet RJ-45 (factory use only)Environmental Cooling Ambient air, no fan Temperature -20°C to +60°C (operating) Humidity Up to 90% Vibration MIL-STD-810F, Method 514.5, procedure I Shock MIL-STD-810F, Method 516.5, procedure IModel Protocol Encryption Band Frequency rangeVCA100-L1FCGX FM None VHF, Low-band 29.7 – 37 MHzVCA100-L2FCGX FM None VHF, Low-band 35 – 50 MHzVCA100-V1FCGX FM None VHF, High-band 136 – 174 MHzVCA100-V1PCGX FM/P25 None VHF, High-band 136 – 174 MHzVCA100-V1PAGX FM/P25 DES/AES VHF, High-band 136 – 174 MHzVCA100-V1PDGX FM/P25 DES VHF, High-band 136 – 174 MHzVCA100-U1FCGX FM None UHF 450 – 520 MHzVCA100-71PCGX FM/P25 None 700 764 – 806 MHzVCA100-81FCGX FM None 800 806 – 870 MHzVCA100-81PCGX FM/P25 None 800 806 – 870 MHzVCA100-81PDGX FM/P25 DES 800 806 – 870 MHzVCA100-91FCGX FM None 900 896 – 941 MHz

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008AEL Authorized equipment listAES Advanced encryption standard adopted as standard by U.S. governmentDC Direct currentDES Data Encryption Standard DHS Department of Homeland SecurityEMI Electromagnetic interferenceFCC Federal Communications CommissionFM Frequency modulationGPS Global Positioning SystemIAN Incident area networkLED Light-emitting diodeLOS Line of sightMIL-STD Military standardNIMS National Incident Management SystemP25 Project 25 (encryption protocol for digital communications)RF Radio frequencySEL Standardized equipment listSMA Subminiature version A (RF connector)SOP Standard operating proceduresTNC Threaded Neill-Concelman (RF connector)UHF Ultra high frequencyVCA Vehicle communications assemblyVHF Very high frequencyVoIP Voice-over-Internet protocolAppendix BAcronyms and abbreviations11

First InterComm™ system VCA100 user manual A29798 September 2008Telephone support 603-459-5643E-mail firstintercomm.eis@baesystems.comwww.firstintercomm.comBAE Systems contact information12Companion documentationFirst InterComm™ system Talk Group software user manual, document No. A29800, July 2008

PUBS-07-F57-VCA100usermanualFor more information, contact:BAE SystemsP. O. Box 868, PTP01-2218Nashua, New Hampshire 03061-0868Telephone 603-885-9605Fax 603-885-3563www.firstintercomm.com©2008 BAE Systems. All rights reserved.Cleared for open publication 07/08We Protect Those Who Protect Us®

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