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Strata Operations Guide

- 1 -

Strata Transmitter

Operations Guide

Revision 3.0

May 2003

Microwave Radio Communications 101 Billerica Avenue, Bldg 6

(978) 671-5700 N. Billerica, MA 01862-1256

www.mrcbroadcast.com

Strata Operations Guide

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Introduction

The Microwave Radio Communications (MRC) Strata system provides a reliable and highly flexible

video microwave transport system. This operations guide provides basic system operations information

and details for hands-on operation of this equipment.

System Description

Figure 1 below shows the overall Strata system architecture for a fully equipped system.

TCU TXU HPU

NTSC

PAL

SDI

ASI

RF OUT

RF/DC

Telemetry Telemetry

IF or Baseband Signal

DC Simplex Powering

Dummy Load

12 v to 48 v

RS-232

1.84 MHz OOK Tone

12 v to 48 v

RS-232

Figure 1 – Strata Transmitter System Architecture

The primary system features are:

oLightweight, Modular, Multi-Unit Design

oAnalog, Digital, or Analog/Digital Switchable

oMPEG Encoding (4:2:0, 4:2:2)

oCOFDM Modulation with Selectable Guard Interval

oDigital Modulation for QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM

oNTSC or PAL Modulation with Audio (4 mono or 2 stereo)

oTripod, Half Rack, or Full Rack Mounts

oFront Panel Remote Controlled

oBands from 2 to 15 GHz

oWide Choice of Antennas

Note that the TCU (Transmitter Control Unit) and the TXU (Transmitter Unit) may be operated in a

stand-alone configuration depending on specific video transport applications.

TCU Description

The TCU component can accept a wide variety of signal formats and provide several different output

signal formats. Figure 2 below shows the basic functions of the TCU.

Strata Operations Guide

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MPEG

COFDM

FMT

COAX IN

COFDM

70 MHZ

MONITOR

COAX OUT

SDI

ASI

FMT CV

Filter

NTSC

PAL

SDI

ASI

MPEG CV

Telemetry

ASI

70 MHz IF Bypass

Note: Either or both MPEG/COFDM or

FMT boards may be installed

COFDM

IF CV

ASI

IF CV

ASI Only Mode

Figure 2 - Strata TCU Functional Diagram

Note: The TCU may be supplied with or without the MPEG/COFDM or FMT options.

TXU Description

Like the TCU component, the TXU can accept a wide variety of signal formats but includes an RF up-

converter for use in transporting signals over a microwave radio link. Figure 3 below shows the basic

functions of the TXU.

MPEG

COFDM

FMT

SIGNAL IN

ASI MON

ASI COFDM

70 MHZ

RF OUT

SDI MPEG

MPEG CV

ASI Input

FMT CV

NTSC

PAL

SDI

ASI

Filter

Telemetry

SDI/ASI

IF/RF Up Converter/Amplifier

70 MHz

Figure 3 – Strata TXU Functional Diagram

Note: The TXU may be supplied with or without the MPEG/COFDM or FMT options.

Strata Operations Guide

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HPU Description

For those applications requiring a higher RF output level, the HPU (High Power Unit) may be used to

boost the signal level to between 2 and 12 watts of microwave output power depending on the modulation

format used. Figure 4 below shows the functional architecture of the HPU device.

HPURF IN RF OUT

Figure 4 – HPU Functional Diagram

Theory of Operation

The Strata TX system is comprised of the following primary components:

• Command and Control Power Supply module

• Combiner Circuit

• MPEG encoder/COFDM modulator module (digital mode)

• FMT (FM Transmitter) (analog mode)

• IF/RF Unit

• HPU (High Power Unit)

Note that some or all of these components may be included in a fully functional Strata TX system

depending on specific customer applications, e.g., switchable analog and digital transmitting system, etc.

Where switchable analog and digital video transmission is required, the Strata TX system installs the

digital and analog video modulator modules and the IF/RF module in separate housings. In this case a

TCU (Transmitter Control Unit) houses the MPEG/COFDM, FMT and Combiner circuits with the IF/RF

unit installed in a separate TXU (Transmitter Unit) housing. This arrangement also allows the video

modulation components (TCU) to be physically separated from the IF/RF up-converter by up to 600 feet.

Command and Control Power Supply

The TCU and TXU Command and Control/Power Supply modules contain external and internal

communications circuitry as well as supplying the necessary system voltages. The power supply portion

accepts a wide range DC input voltage (+10.5 to +48 volts) and distributes appropriate output voltages to

the various circuits. The command and control circuits handle inter-module communications and provide

external RS-232 communications to external peripheral equipment, such as a remote control device

(helicopter operation) or to a PC capable of running Windows based configuration software. An on-board

microprocessor manages the system configuration and operation of all modules to which it is connected,

i.e., MPEG/COFDM, FMT, IF/RF modules, etc. In addition, for those applications that employ both

TCU and TXU housings, a communications link superimposed over the inter-connecting IF coaxial cable

provides communications to all system modules. This ensures the TCU and TXU may control each

other’s operation, i.e., permit switching modes of operation, change system presets, etc.

Strata Operations Guide

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Therefore, where both a TCU and TXU are used, total system control may be accomplished using front

panel or remote control from either housing.

MPEG/COFDM Encoder/Modulator

This is the heart of the Strata TX digital mode circuitry. This versatile circuit may be configured to

accept a wide range of digital or analog video and audio signal inputs and provide COFDM (70 MHz), IF

(70 MHz) or ASI video signal outputs. When installed in a TCU housing, the various signal inputs and

outputs are connected through the TCU Combiner circuit where the various signal inputs and outputs are

switched using software controls.

FMT

The optional FMT module accepts standard NTSC or PAL analog video and audio signals and FM

modulates these signals on a 70 MHz carrier. Using the MRC supplied configuration software, four

different audio sub-carrier frequencies may be defined in which up to four standard audio signals may be

transported with the associated video signal. Note that audio deviation levels are software controlled and

must be provisioned at the MRC factory when ordering this option.

TCU

The TCU may house either or both digital and analog video modulation modules. Where a customer

application might initially employ only analog video transmission but anticipates migrating to dual

(switchable) analog and digital operation, the TCU may be upgraded to add the MPEG/COFDM module

to provide this additional capability. Where only digital or analog video transmission is desired, the

MPEG/COFDM or FMT modules may be installed in a TXU housing thereby eliminating the need for a

TCU. Note that the Strata TX design does not permit splitting digital and analog video modulator

modules between a TCU and TXU. A TCU configuration may also include a “stand-alone” option where

either or both MPEG/COFDM and FMT modules may be used independent of the TXU. This

arrangement permits using a TCU equipped with analog and/or digital video modulation modules for a

variety of signal input and signal output configurations, including a digital option using NTSC or PAL

composite video input and ASI (digital) signal output.

TXU

The TXU always houses the IF/RF module, which accepts either a 70 MHz COFDM, FMT IF, or external

70 MHz input signal and up-converts these signals to the appropriate RF band. The RF frequency

synthesizer circuit included in the IF/RF unit, along with the command and control module, provide the

means to channelize RF video and audio signals in the 2 GHz RF band. Standard U.S. FCC band plans,

as well as customer created channel plans, may be accommodated using the Strata TX Windows based

configuration software. As noted above, the TXU may also include either an MPEG/COFDM or FMT

module (but not both) in which case the TXU serves as a stand-alone digital or analog video microwave

transmission system.

HPU

The optional HPU (High Power Unit) is designed to work with a companion TXU in which case RF

output signals from the TXU are connected to the RF input jack of the HPU. In the case of analog

microwave transmission, the RF output of the TXU is amplified operating the HPU RF amplifier in the

non-linear region (saturated) providing RF output levels at the 12 watt level (+41 dBm). In the case

where COFDM RF signals are used, software controlled back-off attenuation is applied to operate the

HPU RF amplifier in the linear region.

Strata Operations Guide

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These back-off levels are carefully measured and configured as part of MRC factory adjustment

procedures and ensure digital mode RF output signals provide optimum performance. Therefore,

depending on what digital mode modulation format is selected, i.e., QPSK, 16 QAM or 64 QAM, or if an

HPU is used, previously configured transmitter back-off levels are applied to ensure the Strata TX RF

output signals operate with minimum Inter-Modulation Distortion (IMD). These carefully measured and

configured transmitter back-off levels are stored in the TXU IF/RF unit and are applied depending on

which particular operating mode is selected. Typical digital mode RF levels vary from 5 watts to 2 watts

output depending mostly on the modulation format selected.

Overall Operational Details

The following details apply when operating the Strata system using either the TCU or TXU front panel

controls:

1. When companion TXU or TCU devices are inter-connected via coaxial cables, an inter-unit telemetry

link is established. This feature allows overall system operation and configuring to be accomplished

from either the TCU or TXU devices if both are used. For example, the microwave transmitter may

be keyed ON or OFF from either device.

2. A configuration software tool (Strata TX Configurator) may be used to review and modify certain

system configuration options as described in this document.

Special Note: All radio systems leaving the MRC factory are adjusted per standard industry (default)

settings, i.e., video and audio levels versus FM deviation (analog), as well as digital and analog IF and RF

levels, etc. In addition, transmitter back-off (IMD) and analog audio levels are carefully adjusted using

special software tools. Many of these settings are software controlled and cannot be adjusted in the field.

How to View Configuration Parameters and Control the TCU/TXU Units from the Front Panel

Figure 5 below shows the basic TCU/TXU control functionality using the front panel control switch:

Strata Operations Guide

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Display Monitor Screen Push to Select

Rotate to Change Push to Select

Figure 5 – Front Panel Switch Control

TCU/TXU Front Panel Control Settings

The front panel control switch is used to select a limited number of front panel control functions. Rotating

the switch counterclockwise allows access to mode selection choices, while rotating the switch clockwise

allows access to monitoring the current mode of operation. The plunger action of the switch is used to

select the appropriate mode of operation. The TXU and associated HPU (High Power Unit), if equipped,

is keyed ON or OFF by compressing and holding the front panel control switch for one second from any

menu page. The Strata TX system is transmitting when the front panel blue “XMIT” LED is illuminated.

When the menu display is inactive for more than 7 seconds, the display will revert back to the main menu.

The following front panel control selections are available:

• Set RF Channel

• Change Preset – Presets #1 to #9

• Set Power Out – HPU attenuation control

• HPU Present

• 75 Ohm Coax DC Power ON/OFF – Coaxial cable DC power ON/OFF control

Note: The remainder of front panel selections allow monitoring previously configured parameters and

system status, including alarm indications, power output, etc.

Details related to the use of Strata TX front panel controls are found on the following page.

Strata Operations Guide

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RF Channel Select

The radio is pre-programmed with a number of RF channel frequencies associated with up to 9 preset

configurations. Use this feature to monitor the currently configured RF frequencies. Note: If these

frequencies are known as part of a customer order, they may be factory set to customer requirements or

added or modified per customer request.

Select Preset Setting

Used to select a pre-configured configuration. Up to 9 different configurations may be stored and

configured in conjunction with the Strata TX Configurator utility.

Set Attenuation Value (Transmitter Back Off Level)

Used to set the transmitter output power (and linear operating point) of the radio system. Adjustable from

0 to 31 dB in 1 dB increments. Push to select.

Note: Maximum power output occurs with 0 dB of attenuation applied.

75 Ohm Coax ON/OFF

Used to activate or de-activate DC powering a TCU or TXU through the inter-connecting IF coaxial

cable.

Front Panel Transmitter Power Monitoring

The current TX output power reading available on the front panel may be used as a general reference and

is accurate to within +/- 1 dB.

HPU Present

Identifies and configures use of the HPU option connected to the TXU device.

Please see the front panel menu guide on the following page for details related to front panel operation.

Strata Operations Guide

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Preset #1

HPU In C9

@ DC Power Up

Change Preset

Preset #1

Set Channel

Ch 9

HPU Coax

HPU Present

75 Ohm Coax

Power On

2475.500 MHz

HPU Off C9

Mode

COFDM - IF

Video Delay

Normal

MPEG Audio A

Analog Stereo

Color Bar Off

Pilot Off

Control Menu Access

Scroll Menu Button to Left - Push to Select

Turn Transmitter ON from

any menu screen -

Push

menu button in for 1 second

Blue TX light ON

Control Menu Access:

Scroll Menu Button to Right to Monitor

Caution:

Enables HPU operation and DC

voltage on coax (from the TXU) when

transmitting - push to activate or deactivate

HPU.

Caution:

This function enables DC voltage to

flow between the TCU and TXU on the IF

coax cable - push to turn On and Off.

RF Configuration status

(Pout level - TXU only)

COFDM Config Status

with bit rate flashing

MPEG Audio A

Config Status

Video Input Status &

MPEG Chroma

Color Bar & Pilot

Status Indicator

Caution:

DC ouput voltage from TXU is slaved

to the blue light condition shown as the "HPU

In" condition when transmitting.

1) Push to activate

2) Rotate to change

3) Push to select

QPSK 8MHz

FEC 1/2 GI 1/8

NTSC

Video In 4:2:0

Video Input error -

flashes w/no video

Mode

Analog - IF Mode

COFDM ASI In

Mode

Ext IF Input

Audio #1 On

Pre 4.83MHz

Audio #2 On

Flat 6.20MHz

Audio #3 Off

Pre 6.80MHz

Audio #4 Off

Pre 7.20MHz

Vid Dev 4MHz

Pre 525L In

QPSK 8MHz

FEC 1/2 GI 1/8

Color Bar Off

Pilot Off

MPEG Audio B

Config Status

Mode

MPEG Output

NTSC

Vid In 4:2:0

Video Delay

Normal

MPEG Audio A

Analog Stereo

MPEG Audio B

Analog Stereo

Color Bar Off

Monitor Menus

A Function of IF Mode Selection

Note:

For helicopter applications the channel select will be included with the

preset conditions.

Presetable Parameters

Video Input Chroma

Delay Mode FEC

ASI Output COFDM Bandwidth

BISS - On/Off Guard Interval

BISS Key Modulation

Audio Input Conditions A & B VBI - On/Off

Audio Mode Conditions

Color Bars/Pilot Condition - Service Name/Network Name

IF Mode of Operation

Analog Audio Subcarrier On/Off

nalo

Audio Subcarrier Fre

uenc

MPEG Audio B

Analog Stereo

Video delay

ASI Bit Rate

10.2000 Mbs

Set Power Out

Atten 0 dB

Note:

Last operational state will be saved on power down.

1) Push to activate

2) Rotate to change

3) Push to select - up to 9 presets

1) Push to activate

2) Rotate to change

3) Push to select - 0 -31 dB values

back to main

menu after set

back to main

menu after set

( Default to Main Menu after 7 seconds of inactivity)

Pilot Off

Strata Front Panel Operation

Error Page

Error Page Error Page

Refer to MID errors

Strata Front Panel Guide Diagram

Strata Operations Guide

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Supported Strata TX System Configuration Options

The following information may be used to identify which Strata TX system options may be used for

specific customer applications.

TCU Supported Signal Options

Hardware Option Signal Input Signal Output Monitor Out Notes

* MPEG/COFDM Only NTSC/PAL ASI Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM Only SDI (525/625) ASI Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM Only NTSC/PAL COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM Only SDI (525/625) COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM Only ASI COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM Only IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode

FMT Only NTSC/PAL IF CV IF CV NTSC/PAL CV IF

FMT Only IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL ASI Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT SDI (525/625) ASI Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT NTSC/PAL IF CV IF CV NTSC/PAL IF

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT SDI (525/625) COFDM - IF COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT ASI COFDM - IF ASI or COFDM Various formats

* MPEG/COFDM + FMT IF IF IF IF Bypass Mode

Notes:

* = ASI output possible when TCU used in stand-alone (MPEG only) mode

TXU Supported Signal Options

Hardware Option Signal Input Signal Output Notes

MPEG/COFDM Option NTSC/PAL COFDM - RF Various formats

MPEG/COFDM Option SDI (525/625) COFDM - RF Various formats

MPEG/COFDM Option ASI COFDM - RF Various formats

MPEG/COFDM Option IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal

FMT Option NTSC/PAL CV - RF NTSC/PAL CV Channelized RF

FMT Option IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal

No options installed IF RF Up-converted Channelized RF signal

Note: TXU supports either MPEG/COFDM option or FMT option, but not both.

Strata Operations Guide

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Configuring the Radio System using the TCU/TXU Serial Port and the

“Strata TX Configurator” Software Utility

Basic Strata TX Configuration Details

The following basic system configuration settings may be administered using the Strata TX Configurator

software utility.

• COFDM IF Mode – 70 MHz COFDM IF output from the internal COFDM/MPEG board supplied to

output and monitor ports (to TXU if present).

• IF Input – 70 MHz IF input signal from input connector routed through TCU to TXU (if present).

• ASI Input – Bypasses internal MPEG encoder and routes an externally supplied ASI stream to the

monitor and output connectors (to TXU if present).

• MPEG ASI Output – supplies a DVB ASI transport stream to the signal output connector and the

monitor output connector. Note: This mode is only accessed when the TCU is operated in a stand-

alone configuration.

• Analog Audio/Video – Routes 70 MHz FM output to TXU (if present). This mode is only supported

with the FMT option installed.

• DVB-S – This operational mode uses a single carrier modulator scheme and supplies a 70 MHz IF

output to the signal output connector and the monitor output connector, only operational for QPSK

and 16 QAM. Note: This mode is currently not supported in the current software release.

• RF Frequency

Used to select an RF frequency from 1.99 GHz – 2.50 GHz (up to 5 decimal places).

• Modulation Type

Used to select each digital modulation mode for COFDM operation and DVB-S mode (when

applicable) – QPSK, 16 QAM, 64 QAM. Note: 64 QAM modulation may not be used in the DVB-S

mode of operation.

• FEC Type

Used to select each FEC (Forward Error Correction) scheme to be used – (1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8).

• COFDM Guard Interval

Used to select the individual Guard Interval for COFDM operation only – 1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4.

• COFDM Bandwidth

Used to select COFDM bandwidth operation – 6 MHz, 7 MHz, or 8 MHz.

• Video Input

Used to select the necessary video input for the MPEG encoder from the following selections:

NTSC composite video, PAL composite video, SDI – 525 line, SDI – 625 line.

• Chroma

Used to select MPEG chroma profile – 4:2:0 (420 profile @ main level), 4:2:2 (422 profile @ main

level).

• Color bars

Used to turn the internal color bars generator ON, OFF or place in AUTO mode – (used in IF digital

modes only). Color bars will display a user programmed Service Name parameter if applied. Video

input is bypassed when ON. Auto mode will insert color bars when no video input is detected

Strata Operations Guide

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Audio Input – A

Used to select the following audio operational modes for MPEG encoder A input:

• OFF – Audio transport stream is not generated and enabled

• Test Tone – An internal 800 Hz test tone is enabled.

• Analog Mono – Two independent mono audio channels are enabled.

• Analog Stereo – Left and right audio channels are enabled.

• SDI Embedded Mono – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.

• SDI Embedded Stereo – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.

• AES/EBU Mono – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.

• AES/EBU Stereo – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.

Audio Input – B

Used to select the following audio operational modes for MPEG encoder B input:

• OFF – Audio transport stream is not generated and enabled

• Test Tone – An internal 800 Hz test tone is enabled.

• Analog Mono – Two independent mono audio channels are enabled.

• Analog Stereo – Left and right audio channels are enabled.

• SDI Embedded Mono – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.

• SDI Embedded Stereo – Unit expects an embedded audio stream from an SDI video source.

• AES/EBU Mono – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.

• AES/EBU Stereo – Unit expects a digital audio input stream.

Audio Notes:

A) 48 KHz sampling is used for all audio (384 Kbits per stereo channel).

B) When using Alteia IRD with Audio A ON and Audio B OFF, Audio A is duplicated on Audio B

output XLR connectors.

C) When using Alteia IRD and 4 audio signals, the preferred language setting for Audio B must

differ from Audio A for decoding audio transport streams, e.g., set for Spanish.

Frequency Control Modes

The Strata TX system permits two different frequency control modes. The two frequency control modes

are:

Frequency-Locked-to-Presets

Frequency-Unlocked-to-Presets

Definition of Frequency-Locked-to-Presets mode - In this mode, each preset is assigned an operating

frequency as channelized in a channel assignment table. The channel assignment table is normally

populated with the standard U.S. 2 GHz standard band plan channels, i.e., channels versus frequency, but

may have some or all channel assignments, e.g., channel +4, changed by the user to accommodate non-

standard frequencies (so long as they are in the specified band and a multiple of the frequency synthesizer

step frequency). Note that the user may modify the channel versus frequency table using the Strata TX

Configurator software utility. Hence in this mode of operation, selection of any one of 9 presets may, and

normally would, have an associated frequency (channel) locked to the selected preset.

Strata Operations Guide

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NOTE: Even though each preset in a system configured to operate in the Frequency-Locked-to-Preset

mode has a pre-assigned frequency, the user may temporarily dial in a new channel (frequency) from the

front panel which will remain in effect until, (1) the unit is power-cycled, or (2) a new preset is selected.

Either condition will automatically select the frequency associated with the current preset, i.e., revert back

to the pre-assigned frequency associated with the current preset.

Definition of Frequency-Unlocked-to-Presets mode: In this mode, no channel (frequency) is

associated with or locked to any preset. Regardless of all other preset configuration parameters, the last

selected frequency (channel) will be the frequency used for all presets. To change the frequency (while

any preset is selected), the front panel control is used to select a new (channelized) frequency. The last

frequency selected will remain programmed as the current (default) frequency until changed by the user

using the front panel control. Turning the system power off and back on or selecting a new preset will not

change the currently selected frequency.

Remember, the selection of frequency control modes, i.e., frequency locked to presets, or frequency

unlocked to presets, cannot be changed in the field.

Preparations

The following preparations should be completed prior to attempting to configure the Strata TX radio

system using a serial data connection:

Establish serial data connections to and from the radio system. See the sketch below for details on how to

connect a PC to the Strata TX radio system.

PC Null Modem Connection Strata TCU or TXU

Figure 5 – Serial Data Connection Details

Notes:

• A serial data connection may be made to either a TCU or TXU pair so long as the TCU and the TXU

are inter-connected with a coaxial cable (enables system telemetry link and permits simplex powering

of adjacent units). Both units must be powered ON.

• Use a standard 9 pin RS-232 serial data “null” modem connection (DTE-to-DTE configuration)

between the PC and the radio unit(s) as shown in Figure 5. above. Recommended serial data cable

length not to exceed 50 feet.

• The system being configured should be interconnected as it will be used, i.e., all units inter-connected

properly with the appropriate RF termination connected to either the TXU or HPU RF output

connector. Note that some applications may use a TCU or TXU in a “stand-alone” mode.

Strata Operations Guide

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TCU TXU HPU

NTSC

PAL

SDI

ASI

RF OUT

RF/DC

Telemetry Telemetry

IF or Baseband Signal

DC Simplex Powering

Dummy Load

12 v to 48 v

RS-232

1.84 MHz OOK Tone

12 v to 48 v

RS-232

Typical Strata System Configuration Setup

Strata TX Powering Options and Cautions

Note the following recommended Strata system powering options and rules.

1. TCU stand-alone powering: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC.

2. TXU stand-alone powering: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC.

3. TCU and TXU adjacent: +12 volts to + 48 volts DC. *

4. TCU separated from TXU/HPU (TXU supplying power): +48 volts DC (for distances > 100 feet). **

5. TCU separated from TXU/HPU (TCU supplying power): +24 volts (minimum). ***

Notes:

* When powering adjacent TCU/TXU configurations, apply power to both TCU and TXU units.

** Special rules apply for longer distance separation applications depending on coaxial cable type,

distance and whether an HPU is used.

*** Necessary to reduce current drain over IF coaxial cable – recommend +48 volts.

Strata Operations Guide

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* * * CAUTION * * *

DC Voltages Present on Coaxial Cable

Center Conductors

Use Caution

For those Strata TX configurations that employ 2 or 3 modules, e.g., TCU + TXU

+ HPU, etc., the TCU and/or TXU may be used to power adjacent modules by

superimposing DC voltage on the interconnecting coaxial cable center conductor.

This feature is activated using the Strata TX front panel controls and remains in

effect until subsequently modified by the user. The voltages involved range from

+ 12 to + 48 volts DC (DC input voltage).

To avoid damaging radio and test equipment input circuitry, be certain you either

remove or isolate superimposed DC voltages from interconnecting coaxial cables

where necessary to protect externally connected equipment.

In the case of the TXU-to-HPU RF coaxial cable connection, the center conductor

will have DC voltages superimposed on the RF cable center conductor in order to

power the HPU. If the TXU RF output is connected directly to an antenna or test

equipment, be certain to disable the HPU On feature and therefore remove the DC

voltage superimposed on the TXU RF output.

The Strata TCU “Signal In” BNC connector on the rear of the TCU module is

susceptible to damage if DC is present on the center conductor. Take care that the

TXU-to-TCU interconnecting coaxial cable (if used) is not inadvertently connected

to the “Signal In” connector instead of the “Signal Out” connector. Please see the

image on the following page for additional details.

Strata Operations Guide

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TCU “Signal In” Connection – not DC isolated

Note:

To minimize the potential for damaging the TCU signal input circuitry, the “Signal Out” jack rear panel

BNC connector has been changed to a TNC type connector. Users are cautioned not to use a TNC-to-

BNC adapter on the TCU “Signal Out” jack to circumvent this protection feature. Each Strata TX system

that includes TXU and TCU modules is shipped with a short BNC-to-TNC coaxial cable assembly for

interconnecting TXU and TCU modules. For those system applications that require separating the TXU

and TCU over longer distances, users are advised to use a BNC “barrel” adapter on the BNC end of the

supplied coaxial cable assembly.

Strata Operations Guide

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Step-by-Step Procedure

Use the following Strata configuration procedure when verifying or configuring the Strata TX system

using the Strata TX Configurator software over a local or remote serial data link.

1. Install the Strata Configurator software per instructions supplied with the software. This software is

designed to operate properly on Windows 32 bit operating systems, e.g., Windows 98/NT/2000/ or

XP operating systems.

2. Connect the PC serial port to the TCU or TXU per Figure 5. above. Apply the appropriate DC power

to the Strata TX radio system and operate the front panel power switch(s) to ON.

3. Start the Strata Configurator application. You should see the following main menu appear:

4. Click on the “Connect to Radio” control. The following dialog is presented.

Strata Operations Guide

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5. Enter 1 or 2 depending on which PC serial data (RS-232) COM port is being used.

Note: If the Strata TX Configurator application is unable to open a valid serial data port or an invalid

number is entered, you will receive the following error dialog:

If you are unable to open a serial port or establish a valid serial port connection to a Strata TX radio

system, exit the application and attempt to determine the difficulty and try again.

6. Assuming a valid serial data connection is established with a Strata TX radio system, you should see

the main Customer screen display with all front panel controls activated as shown below.

7. Next use the “Load Settings From Radio” function to retrieve the current Strata TX radio

configuration. It is recommended you store this configuration to a file using the “Save Settings to

File” function especially when any modifications have been made to the current radio settings.

8. Access the Global, COFDM, MPEG Video, MPEG Audio, FMT and RF Settings menus by clicking

on the appropriate menu tabs. The channel frequency settings found in the “Channel Plan” tab are

only accessible for systems that do not include the “Frequencies Locked to Presets” option.

Strata Operations Guide

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9. Select the correct configuration option or options for the intended application or applications. Please

note that some configuration options may not apply depending on specific hardware options supplied

and whether a unit being configured is connected to a companion unit, i.e., a TCU connected via a

coaxial cable to a companion TXU, etc.

10. Next, use the “Program Radio” function to load the specified changes and settings into the Strata

TX radio system. It is strongly recommended that you perform a “Load Settings From Radio”

action to verify the desired settings were loaded into the Strata TX radio system.

Note: An active programming or configuration retrieval session requires approximately 2 minutes to

complete. Do not disturb the radio system or serial data connections until an indication is received that

the current operation has completed.

11. When the Strata system has been properly configured and the front panel monitoring control has been

used to verify the desired configurations have been implemented, use the “Save Settings to File”

option and save the current system configurations for future use, either for restoring the current

system settings or for applying similar configuration parameters to another system. You may wish to

enter a descriptive name for this particular configuration in the Customer screen “Description

Information” field in addition to a unique file name to aid in identifying this particular system

configuration.

12. When the current Strata TX system configuration action has been completed, remove the serial data

connection to the Strata TX system.

13. Test and verify proper operation of the configured Strata system using the front panel controls as

described elsewhere in this document.

This completes remote configuration of the Strata TX system.

Note: A limited number of Strata system configuration parameters may be modified using the front panel

controls such as selecting pre-configured presets and powering adjacent units, etc. You may also

effectively use the front panel controls to monitor proper operation and review current preset

configurations, etc.

Basic System Operation

The following basic operational notes are supplied in an effort to ensure the Strata TX system is operating

properly.

1. Always ensure you apply the proper DC input power, including a verification of the current handling

capacity of the power source. Note that some applications require minimum DC power for proper

operation, e.g., the case where a TCU is separated from the TXU over a long length of coaxial cable.

2. Be sure the front panel controls are set properly to supply power to either or both a TCU or HPU unit

when DC power is supplied from the TXU. Note that the HPU obtains its DC operating power over

the RF coaxial cable from the companion TXU.

Strata Operations Guide

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3. When initially powering a Strata TX system, the power/error front panel LED will indicate an error

condition (amber) for a few seconds prior to turning green. This is an indication that the Strata TX

components have not completed software initialization. You will also note this condition when

switching between digital and analog modes. Users will be prevented from operating the Strata

transmitter until the front panel power/error LEDs have turned green.

4. You should not attempt to change presets while the transmitter is active. Turn OFF the Strata

transmitter (hold front panel control knob in for 1 second) before changing presets. Before activating

the transmitter after changing a preset or operating frequency, use the front panel control to ensure the

selected operating frequency is the desired frequency.

5. Note that the front panel will not display the transmitter output power when an HPU is present. When

using a TXU without the HPU option, the approximate RF output power will displayed on the front

panel main menu display.

6. For those applications that require transmitting at lower output power, you may dial in additional IF

attenuation (1 to 31 dB) using the front panel control. Note that any additional attenuation applied in

this manner will be lost when changing presets or re-powering the system. For permanently installed

additional attenuation values associated with a system preset number, you may configure these values

using the supplied Strata TX Configurator utility. In this case the amount of additional attenuation

will apply when the associated preset is selected but may be temporarily changed using the front

panel control. Depending on the operating mode, and the characteristics of the radio components,

added IF attenuation may not decrease RF output power on a 1:1 basis. If accurate RF output power

setting is required, use an external RF power meter to ensure the desired amount of RF output power

is obtained.

7. For those systems configured for Frequency-locked-to-Presets, you may temporarily change the

transmitting frequency using the front panel control. Any channelized frequency entered in this

manner is temporary and will be lost when changing presets or re-powering the system. For those

systems configured for Frequency-unlocked-to-Presets, changing the current operating frequency

will remain in effect until changed by the user.

8. Note that Strata TX systems must be configured at the MRC factory for the following options:

• NTSC (default) or PAL composite video formats

• Frequencies-locked-to-Presets (Helicopter operation)

• Frequencies-not-locked-to-Presets (default option)

• RF band, e.g., 1.9 GHz to 2.5 GHz (default) or 2.3 GHz to 2.7 GHz

These options cannot be changed in the field.

9. Adjustment of FMT audio deviation levels cannot be accomplished in the field. There are no physical

controls permitting this adjustment. The FMT audio deviation levels are adjusted with special

software tools in the MRC factory for industry standard (+8 dBm input @ 75 kHz deviation) levels

unless otherwise specified.

Every effort has been made to supply a state-of-the-art and reliable Strata TX design. Should you

encounter any difficulty operating your Strata TX radio system, please contact Microwave Radio

Communications for assistance.

Strata Operations Guide

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Appendix

External Connection Information

Note: The MRC P/N for the external circular panel audio connector cable assembly is 907471-1. This 3

foot long cable assembly includes the mating Amphenol connector and 4 each female XLR connectors.

For customers who wish to construct their own external audio connection cable assembly, the mating

Amphenol connector P/N is MS3116F12-10S.

MPEG Board Function Circular Connector Wire Color XLR

Analog Audio Input

J11- 1 (return) Right chan 1 A White #1 – pin 3

J11- 2 GND B Black #1 – pin 1

J11- 3 (live) Right chan 1 C Red #1 – pin 2

J11- 4 (return) Left chan 1 D White #2 – pin 3

J11- 5 GND B Black #2 – pin 1

J11- 6 (live) Left chan 1 E Red #2 – pin 2

Analog Audio Input

J12- 1 (return) Right chan 2 F White #3 – pin 3

J12- 2 GND G Black #3 – pin 1

J12- 3 (live) Right chan 2 H Red #3 – pin 2

J12- 4 (return) Left chan 2 J White #4 – pin 3

J12- 5 GND G Black #4 – pin 1

J12- 6 (live) Left chan 2 K Red #4 – pin 2

Strata Operations Guide

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Digital Audio Input (AES-EBU) XLR

J13 - 1 – Chan 2+ #1 Pin 3

J13 - 2 – GND #1 Pin 1

J13 - 3 – Chan 2- #1 Pin 2

J13 - 4 – Chan 1+ #2 Pin 3

J13 - 5 – GND #2 Pin 1

J13 - 6 – Chan 1- #2 Pin 2

Total of 4 each audio circuits

Notes:

1. In the case of digital audio connections, note that the GND (ground) connection is common to two

audio circuits as opposed to the connections used for standard analog audio circuits. In the case of

digital audio circuits then, a single XLR connector supplies two (2) each audio circuits instead of a

single audio circuit in the case of standard analog audio connections.

2. Due to the variety of audio connection options available, either of two existing analog audio

connections may be connected to J13 (digital audio). The circular panel pin out will change

depending on which existing audio connection is used. See below for additional details.

Strata TX Digital and Analog Audio Options

Introduction

Due to the unique design of the Strata TX digital encoder circuit, a number of digital and analog audio

input options may be accommodated. This brief memorandum describes the provisioning and use of

these audio circuits.

Digital Encoder Audio Options

The current Strata TX system supports the following MPEG encoder audio input signals:

• Analog audio

• AES-EBU digital audio

• SDI Embedded digital audio

Note: SDI embedded digital audio is “embedded” within the SDI digital signal when the SDI video

option is employed, i.e., an SDI video + audio signal is connected to the TCU or TXU “Signal Input”

BNC connector. In this case the digital audio signals are not connected to the encoder via the circular

panel audio connector.

Strata Operations Guide

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Analog Audio Options

Up to 4 individual analog audio input signals may be transported over the COFDM transport signal. This

accommodates the industry standard Channel 1 and Channel 2, Left and Right side audio circuits. Two

on-board 6 pin audio connectors are wired to the Strata TX circular panel audio connectors for connection

to customer supplied audio sources.

Note: Where an FMT is installed in a Strata TCU housing (digital + analog transmission), analog audio

input signals may be bridged to one or both FMT audio inputs in addition to being connected to the

MPEG encoder analog audio inputs. This option accommodates simultaneously distributing analog audio

input signals to both FMT (analog) and MPEG encoder (digital) modules. The current Strata TX design

handles impedance matching in the FMT module by terminating (FMT only) or bridging (FMT + MPEG

encoder) audio input signals connected to the FMT module.

Depending on whether one or two analog audio channels are required for analog and/or digital mode

operation, one or both audio input channels (two audio circuits per channel), all combinations of analog

audio only operation can be accommodated by distributing the audio input signals to either or both FMT

and MPEG encoder modules. See the sketch on the following page to view these options.

Strata Operations Guide

- 24 -

Bridging Connectors

Channel 1, 2

Audio Inputs

COFDM/MPEG Encoder

FMT

Chan 1

Audio

Chan 2

Audio

Connecting Analog Audio Input Signals to both FMT and MPEG Encoder Modules

Notes:

1. One or both analog audio input signals may be connected to an FMT module, an MPEG encoder

module, or both.

2. When connecting analog audio input signals to both FMT and MPEG encoder modules, the FMT

audio input circuit is optioned to “bridge” one or both audio channels to accommodate bridged

connections to a co-located MPEG encoder module.

3. Analog audio input signals may be split between FMT and MPEG encoder modules by directly

connecting one channel to each module.

Strata Operations Guide

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4. Any combination of one or two analog audio inputs to either or both FMT or MPEG encoder audio

inputs is supported.

Digital Audio Options

The MPEG encoder digital audio on-board connector supports up to four each separate digital audio

inputs. Currently the AES-EBU digital audio format is supported.

Note: Since digital audio connections, unlike analog audio connections, share a common ground

connection between two audio circuits, digital audio wiring connections are able to accommodate twice

the number of audio circuits over the same number of connecting wires (leads). Please refer to the MPEG

encoder wiring pinout connections shown below for the differences between analog and digital wiring

connections.

MRC 907386-1 COFDM/MPEG Encoder PWB

Digital Audio

(J13)

Analog

Channel 1

(J11) Analog

Channel 2

(J12)

Strata Operations Guide

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Analog Audio (Ch1) J11 1 – R-

2 – GND

3 – R+

4 – L-

5 – GND

6 – L+

Analog Audio (Ch2) J12 1 – R-

2 – GND

3 – R+

4 – L-

5 – GND

6 – L+

Digital Audio (Ch1 + Ch2) J13 1 – Ch2+

2 – GND

3 – Ch2-

4 – Ch1+

5 – GND

6 – Ch1-

Summary of Digital and Analog Audio Connection Options

As can be seen from the description above, a total of four each analog audio and four each digital audio

channels are supported. However, due to the limited number of pin connections on the circular panel

connector, use of digital audio requires audio connection wiring for one analog audio channel. Therefore,

whenever one of the circular panel audio connections is connected to the MPEG encoder digital audio

input, only one analog channel may be connected to either or both FMT and MPEG encoder modules.

The various audio connection options are summarized in the table below:

Analog Audio Digital Audio Number of Channels Option

X 2 FMT and/or MPEG

X 4 FMT and/or MPEG

X 4 MPEG only

X X 2 analog + 4 digital FMT and MPEG

Strata Operations Guide

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Strata Power Cables

TXU and TCU

These units use a KPT06F12-8S 8-pin female cable-mount power connector (MRC P/N = 52155-37). Pins

A, B and C are the Positive (+) voltage input connection. Pins D, E and F are the Negative (–) voltage

connection. The current drain for these units at 28 volts DC is approximately 1 ampere each. Please see

the power cable-connector pin-out sketch below for connection details.

+12 to +48 volts DC

Common (-) return

Strata TCU/TXU Power Cable Connector Pin-out (End View)

HPU

The HPU device is powered via the center conductor of the coaxial cable connection to the companion

TXU (early version). The current drain for this unit at 28 volts DC is approximately 3 amperes when the

transmitter is activated.

Strata Operations Guide

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TCU Board Inter-connection Diagram

Strata Operations Guide

- 29 -

TXU Board Inter-connection Diagram

Strata Operations Guide

- 30 -

J1 J4 J7 J9 J6 J3 J10

FL1

Low Pass Filter

OUT

SDIo

SIo MPEG CV FMT CV IF FMT J11

IF COFDM

FL1

OOK ASI

J5 J2 J8

COAX IN MONITOR COAX OUT

C_VID

IF_ON

D_VID

SI x 2

J13

J11

J12

907386

COFDM/MPEG

Encoder

Digital Audio

Ch 1 Analog Audio

Ch 2 Analog Audio

RS-232 Data IF Out Audio 3 Audio 1

TP3

Video In

Audio 4 Audio 2

udio 3, 4

udio 1, 2

Audio 3, 4

907320 FMT

907346 Baseband Combine

TCU Video and IF Coaxial Cable Interconnection Details

Strata Operations Guide

- 31 -

Strata TX Front Panel Error Code List

Rotating the front panel TCU or TXU control knob allows access to displayed error codes whenever the

unit PWR LED color changes from green to amber. The list below references trouble conditions with

displayed error codes.

Error Codes MID

TXU IF FAULT E020

TXU RF FAULT E021

TXU PS 48 VOLT LINE E030

TXU PS 5.5 VOLT LINE E031

TXU PS 7 VOLT LINE E032

TXU PS 11 VOLT LINE E033

TXU PS TEMPERATURE E034

TXU PS IF COAX CURRENT E035

TXU PS IF COAX VOLTAGE E036

TXU PS IF COAX WATTAGE E037

TXU PS RF COAX CURRENT E038

TXU PS RF COAX VOLTAGE E039

TXU PS RF COAX WATTAGE EP3A

TXU PS CKT CURRENT EP3B

TXU PS CKT VOLTAGE E0EC

TXU PS CKT WATTAGE E03D

TXU PS DC BUS E03E

TCU PS 48 VOLT LINE E040

TCU PS 5.5 VOLT LINE E041

TCU PS TEMPERATURE E042

TCU PS COAX CURRENT E043

TCU PS COAX VOLTAGE E044

TCU PS COAX WATTAGE E045

TCU PS CKT CURRENT 3046

TCU PSCKT VOLTAGE E047

TCU PS CKT WATTAGE E048

TCU PS DC BUS E049

Strata Operations Guide

- 32 -

Note: While the above front panel error codes indicate that portion of the system most likely affected,

please contact MRC Technical Support for assistance should troubleshooting your Strata TX system

become necessary.

HPU PS 48 VOLT LINE E060

HPU PS 5.5 VOLT LINE E061

HPU PS 11 VOLT LINE E062

HPU PS TEMPERATURE E063

HPU PS COAX CURRENT E064

HPU PS COAX VOLT E065

HPU PS COAX WATTAGE E066

HPU PS CKT CURRENT E067

HPU PS CKT VOLTAGE E068

HPU PS CKT WATTAGE E069

HPU PS DC BUS E06A

COFDM ENCODER COMM ERROR E080

FMT VIDEO PLL UNLOCK E0E0

FMT AUDIO1 PLL UNLOCK E0E1

FMT AUDIO2 PLL UNLOCK E0E2

FMT AUDIO3 PLL UNLOCK E0E3

FMT AUDIO4 PLL UNLOCK E0E4

SYSTEM_ERROR_SUMMARY E400

Strata Operations Guide

- 33 -

Strata Transmitter Wayside Data Channel Access

MRC 907386-1 COFDM/MPEG Encoder PWB Layout

J12

Note:

For Wayside data channel access, use analog audio channel 2 cable assembly (J12). Audio pins F, G and

H in the audio circular panel connector (corresponding to J12 pins 1, 2 and 3) are connected to J7 pins 1,

2 and 3 per the pinout information shown below. Note that analog audio channel 2 Right Side

channel connections are removed and not available when the Wayside data channel option is

used.

Top View of 907386 COFDM/MPEG Encoder PWB

J12

7 12 3

RS232 Wayside Data J7 1 – RS232TX (from encoder)

2 – RS232RX (to encoder)

3 – GND

Strata Operations Guide

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Strata Operations Guide

- 35 -

COFDM/MPEG Encoder PWB Connections

NAME PCB

DESIGNATION COMMENTS

Expansion Port Header

J1 Details available on request

DSP debug header

J2 Engineering Use Only

Power Connector and 2-wire control

interface J3 Pin 1 - TXD (from encoder)

Pin 2 - RXD (to encoder)

Pins 3,4,5,6 - GND

Pins 7,8,9,10 - +5.5V

ISP Connector for Atmel Processor

J4 Pin 1 - 5V

Pin 2 - SDOUT

Pin 3 - GND

Pin 4 - RESET

Pin 5 - SCLK

Pin 6 - SDIN

70MHz IF Output

J5 50 Ohm

Composite Video Input

J6 Terminated at 75 Ohm

RS232 Data and RS485 Control J7 1 – RS232TX (from encoder)

2 – RS232RX (to encoder)

3 – GND

4 – RS485 TX

5 – RS485 TX

6 – RS485 RX

7 – RS485 RX

SDI Input J8 75 Ohm

ASI out J9, J10 75 Ohm

Analog Audio (Ch1) J11 1 – R-

2 – GND

3 – R+

4 – L-

5 – GND

6 – L+

Analog Audio (Ch2) J12 1 – R-

2 – GND

3 – R+

4 – L-

5 – GND

6 – L+

Digital Audio (Ch1 + Ch2) J13 1 – Ch2+

2 – GND

3 – Ch2-

4 – Ch1+

5 – GND

6 – Ch1-

LED – Amber IF_ON Indicates IF Output is ON

LED – Green C_VID Indicates locked to input composite video

LED – Green D_VID Indicates locked to input SDI video

LED - Amber HLTH Heartbeat – flashing indicates software running

Strata Operations Guide

- 36 -

Note: The transmit data connection lead (TD) is used to support serial data flow control

communications between the encoder circuit and a connecting data terminal (PC). Most

applications do not use this capability.

J7 *

Encoder PWB Circular Panel Audio

Connector

DB-9

DTE

Null Modem Cable

DTE

Wayside Data Traffic

DB-9

* Note: J7 pin 1 is nearest to long edge of COFDM/MPEG PWB

End of Strata TX Operations Guide Document

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