11. Introduction CODAN
This user guide is for installation technicians and operators of
the Block Up Converter 6700/6900 series.
This guide contains the following sections:
Section 1 Overview—general description of the BUC
Section 2 Installation—installation instructions specific to
the BUC and redundancy systems
Section 3 Setting up and operating the BUC system—
setup and operating procedures, and serial
interface commands
Section 4 Maintenance and fault finding—description of
how to maintain and fault find a BUC and a
redundancy system
Appendix A BUC model and redundancy system numbers—
explains how to interpret the model number of
your BUC and redundancy system
Appendix B Example outputs for the View commands—
summary of the commands described on
page 57, Setting up and operating the BUC
system
Appendix C Compliance—compliance information and
safety notices
Appendix D Definitions—explains the terms and
abbreviations used in this guide
An index can be found at the end of the guide.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 1
12. Introduction
This page has been left blank intentionally.
2 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
13. 1 Overview CODAN
This section contains the following topics:
Introduction (4)
BUC system configuration (5)
BUC (7)
LNB (15)
Redundancy systems (16)
The Remote Controller 6570 and Hand-held
Controller 6560 (26)
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 3
14. Overview
Introduction
The Codan Block Up Converter 6700/6900 series is a high-
performance BUC for use in a satellite earth station.
The Block Up Converter 6700/6900 series comprises:
• a BUC
• an LNB
• a TRF
• accessories
The BUC is designed to be mounted on a wide range of earth
station antennas. The LNB and TRF are designed to be direct-
mounted (that is, mounted on the antenna feed support
structure). While some BUCs may be direct-mounted to the
feed, others may be boom-mounted or pedestal-mounted.
The BUC converts transmit L-Band IF signals from the
modem to the required RF band. The LNB converts received
RF signals to IF signals in the L-Band frequency range to
drive the modem receive IF input.
The modem generally supplies the BUC and the LNB with
10 MHz reference signals, and the LNB with the required DC
power. Certain BUCs require external sources of either AC or
DC supply. Certain BUCS and LNBs have internal reference
sources and do not require an external 10 MHz reference
signal.
If your modem cannot supply 10 MHz reference
signals to the LNB and BUC, and DC power to
NOTE the LNB (and BUC if this is needed), contact
your Codan representative for information on
accessories and options that may be available.
The TRF is a waveguide filter that ensures transmit signals do
not enter and overload the LNB.
C-Band BUCs are supplied with a waveguide or N-type
output. Ku-Band BUCs are supplied with a waveguide output
only.
4 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
15. Overview
BUC system configuration
The BUC may be used in the following configurations:
Configuration... See...
BUC with L-Band modem and LNB Figure 1 on page 5
BUC with L-Band modem, external Figure 2 on page 6
in-line PSU, and LNB
Figure 1: BUC with L-Band modem and LNB
External AC power
connector or
L-Band Tx IF, +48 V DC power
+24/48 V DC power
(DC-powered BUC only),
10 MHz Ref*, Tx to
FSK M&C antenna
(optional)
BUC
Monitor &
Control
RS232/422/485
Monitor & Control
(optional)
Data L-Band
Modem
AC mains
Rx from
antenna
LNB TRF
L-Band Rx IF,
+15 V DC power (nominal),
10 MHz Ref*
* Certain BUC and LNB versions have internal references
and do not require an external 10 MHz reference
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 5
16. Overview
Figure 2: BUC with L-Band modem, external in-line
PSU, and LNB
L-Band Tx IF,
48 V DC,
10 MHz Ref*,
FSK M&C Tx to
(optional) antenna
BUC
AC mains External
in-line
BUC PSU
RS232/422/485
Monitor & Control
(optional)
Monitor &
Control
L-Band Tx IF,
10 MHz Ref,
FSK M&C
(optional)
Data L-Band
Modem
AC mains
Rx from
antenna
LNB TRF
L-Band Rx IF,
+15 V DC power (nominal),
10 MHz Ref*
* Certain BUC and LNB versions have internal references
and do not require an external 10 MHz reference
6 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
17. Overview
BUC
Transmit frequency bands
Table 1: Transmit frequency bands for C-Band and
Ku-Band BUCs
BUC Frequency band Transmit frequency
band
(MHz)
C-Band Standard 5 850 to 6425
Extended 5 850 to 6725
Ku-Band Standard 14000 to 14500
Extended 13750 to 14500
Frequency conversion plans
All 6700/6900 series BUCs are frequency inverting, that is,
the higher the RF frequency required, the lower the modem
IF frequency must be.
To calculate the modem IF frequency (fIF) for a given
RF frequency, subtract the RF frequency (fRF) from the LO
frequency (fLO).
fIF = fLO – fRF
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 7
18. Overview
Example 1:
The LO frequency of your C-Band BUC is set to 7300 MHz
(see Table 3 on page 9). If you need an RF frequency of
5975 MHz, then you must set the modem IF frequency to:
fIF = 7300 – 5975
= 1325 MHz
Example 2:
The LO frequency of your Ku-Band BUC is 15450 MHz (see
Table 4 on page 11). If you need an RF frequency of
14500 MHz, then you must set the modem IF frequency to:
fIF = 15450 – 14500
= 950 MHz
C-Band
Figure 3 to Figure 6 show the frequency conversion plan for
each LO frequency of the C-Band BUCs.
Table 2: Frequency ranges for C-Band BUCs
(Standard)
LO frequency Tuning range of Output See...
(MHz) L-Band frequency
(MHz) (MHz)
fLO fIF fRF
7300 950–1450 5850–6350 Figure 3 on page 9
7375 950–1525 5850–6425 Figure 4 on page 10
8 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
19. Overview
Table 3: Frequency ranges for C-Band BUCs
(Extended)
LO frequency Tuning range of Output See...
(MHz) L-Band frequency
(MHz) (MHz)
fLO fIF fRF
7300 950–1450 5850–6350 Figure 3 on page 9
7375 950–1525 5850–6425 Figure 4 on page 10
7600 950–1750 5850–6650 Figure 5 on page 10
7675 950–1750 5925–6725 Figure 6 on page 11
Figure 3: C-Band frequency conversion plan at an LO
frequency of 7300 MHz
1 450 MHz 6 350 MHz
950 MHz 5 850 MHz
IF input RF output
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 9
20. Overview
Figure 4: C-Band frequency conversion plan at an LO
frequency of 7375 MHz
1 525 MHz 6 425 MHz
950 MHz 5 850 MHz
IF input RF output
Figure 5: C-Band frequency conversion plan at an LO
frequency of 7600 MHz
1 750 MHz 6 650 MHz
950 MHz 5 850 MHz
IF input RF output
10 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
21. Overview
Figure 6: C-Band frequency conversion plan at an LO
frequency of 7675 MHz
1 750 MHz 6 725 MHz
950 MHz 5 925 MHz
IF input RF output
Ku-Band
Figure 7 and Figure 8 show the frequency conversion plans
for each LO frequency of the Ku-Band BUCs.
Table 4: Frequency ranges for Ku-Band BUCs
(Standard)
LO frequency Tuning range of Output See...
(MHz) L-Band frequency
(MHz) (MHz)
fLO fIF fRF
15450 950–1450 14000–14500 Figure 7 on page 12
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 11
22. Overview
Table 5: Frequency ranges for Ku-Band BUCs
(Extended)
LO frequency Tuning range of Output See...
(MHz) L-Band frequency
(MHz) (MHz)
fLO fIF fRF
15450 950–1450 14000–14500 Figure 7 on page 12
15450 950–1700 13750–14500 Figure 8 on page 13
Figure 7: Ku-Band frequency conversion plan for
BUCs that cover the Standard frequency band
1 450 MHz 14 500 MHz
950 MHz 14 000 MHz
IF input RF output
12 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
23. Overview
Figure 8: Ku-Band frequency conversion plan for
BUCs that cover the Extended frequency band
1 700 MHz 14 500 MHz
1 450 MHz
14 000 MHz
950 MHz 13 750 MHz
IF input RF output
Power supply options
The power supply option for your BUC is indicated in the
model number on the serial number label. For information on
how to interpret the model number see page 111, BUC model
and redundancy system numbers.
Some BUCs are powered by 48 V DC or 24 V DC. Other
BUCs are powered via an AC mains input.
Table 6: Power supply options for BUCs
Input Power supply option Feed to BUC
DC 24 V/48 V via IF cable or separate
cable and connector
AC 94–275 V AC via separate cable and
connector
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 13
24. Overview
BUCs that are AC-powered, also draw current
NOTE from the DC power input on the IF input cable
for remote alarm indication purposes only.
Certain BUCs with external DC power
connectors may also have auto-sensing circuits,
and can be powered from either the external
NOTE
connector or via the IF INPUT connector. If
both connectors are powered, the external
connector is automatically selected.
14 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
25. Overview
LNB
The frequency band that is down converted by the LNB is
indicated on the model label of the LNB.
C-Band
The C-Band LNB is supplied for operation on the frequency
band 3400 to 4200 MHz. It has an LO frequency of
5150 MHz.
NOTE The C-Band LNB is frequency inverting.
Ku-Band
The Ku-Band LNB may be supplied for operation in one of
three frequency band options listed in Table 7.
Table 7: Frequency band options for the Ku-Band LNB
Band option Receive frequency LO frequency L-Band output
(MHz) (MHz) frequency
(MHz)
1 10950–11700 10000 950–1700
2 11700–12200 10750 950–1450
3 12250–12750 11300 950–1450
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 15
26. Overview
Redundancy systems
The Codan Redundancy Controller 6586 is used to control two
BUCs and two LNBs (when used) in a redundancy system.
When a detectable fault occurs in the on-line BUC, and the
off-line BUC is serviceable, the redundancy controller
switches over the two BUCs. The interruption to traffic is
typically less than one second. Transmit/receive systems also
include two LNBs, which are switched in parallel with the
BUCS. In such systems, simultaneous switching of both BUC
and LNB occurs when a fault is detected in either the on-line
BUC or the on-line LNB. This is known as stream-switching.
A typical BUC-LNB system comprises:
• a BUC
• an LNB (in transmit/receive systems only)
• a TRF (optional)
• appropriate connecting cables
A typical redundancy system comprises:
• two BUCs
• two LNBs (in transmit/receive systems only)
• an Redundancy Controller 6586
• one or two RF waveguide switches or a combined RF
waveguide/coaxial switch
• a Remote Controller 6570 (optional)
For information on the remote controller see the Hand-held
and Remote Controller 6560/6570 User Guide.
16 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
27. Overview
Redundancy system control
You can control and monitor the redundancy switching
equipment:
• locally, using a Hand-held Controller 6560 connected to
the BUC 1 Serial/BUC 2 Serial connectors on the
redundancy controller
• remotely, using the optional Remote Controller 6570
connected to the Auxiliary I/O connector on the
redundancy controller
The redundancy controller
The redundancy controller is the main component of the
redundancy system. It controls the switching between the
on-line and off-line BUC and LNB. The redundancy controller
is normally installed on the antenna pedestal near the two
BUC systems. The redundancy controller is powered from the
AC mains supply.
The redundancy controller performs the following functions:
• monitors the Stream 1 and Stream 2 equipment for faults
• monitors the RF waveguide switches for switch faults
• controls the RF waveguide switch positions
• directs the IF paths via high frequency relays and splitter
networks
• supplies power to the BUCs, LNBs (when used), and
optional Remote Controller 6570
The redundancy controller communicates with the BUCs via
relay contacts. The serial interfaces of the BUCs are kept
available for separate use. DC supply connections and isolated
contact closures are available on the Auxiliary I/O connector
of the redundancy controller.
The control panel inside the redundancy controller is shown in
Figure 9.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 17
28. Overview
Figure 9: Control panel on the redundancy controller
BUC 1
Redundancy
Controller LNB 1*
Tx IF
BUC
Switch
Status
Rx IF BUC 2
LNB
LNB 2* Switch*
Remote
Voltage
Selection Controller BUC 1 BUC 2 LNB 1* LNB 2*
Fuse status LEDs
* Not used in transmit-only systems
LED indicators
The control panel of the redundancy controller has groups of
LEDs that indicate the status of the redundancy system and its
fuses. The colours and functions of these LEDs are described
in Table 12 on page 60.
18 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
29. Overview
Switches
The control panel of the redundancy controller has one switch.
The function of this switch is to select the AC input voltage
(115 or 230 V AC).
Connectors
The connector panel is located at the bottom of the
redundancy controller.
Figure 10: Connector panel on the redundancy
controller
BUC Switch Control BUC 1 Serial BUC 1 Control AC Power Input
LNB Switch Control BUC 2 Serial BUC 2 Control Auxiliary I/O
Tx IF Output 1 Tx IF Input Tx IF Output 2 Rx IF Input 1 Rx IF Output Rx IF Input 2
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 19
30. Overview
How the redundancy controller works
When you power up the system, the redundancy controller
uses the current status of the BUC Switch and LNB Switch
(when used) to select the on-line stream.
If the redundancy controller detects that the
NOTE switches are inconsistent, or cannot be detected,
it selects Stream 1.
When the redundancy controller is operating, it monitors the
two BUC and LNB (when used) streams for faults. When a
detectable fault occurs in the on-line BUC and LNB, and the
off-line BUC and LNB is serviceable, the redundancy
controller switches over the two streams. The interruption to
traffic is typically less than one second.
The redundancy controller switches:
• the receive IF signals between the LNBs (when used)
and the modem equipment
• the transmit RF signals between the BUCs and the
transmit antenna port
• the receive RF signal between the receive antenna port
and the LNBs (when used)
The transmit IF signal is not switched. Rather, a splitter allows
the transmit IF signal to feed both BUCs simultaneously. In
transmit-only systems, a transmit-only connector assembly is
supplied and fitted to the LNB Switch Control connector.
20 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
31. Overview
BUC faults
The redundancy controller uses a PLD to monitor the alarm
signals from both BUCs. The BUCs send alarm signals via
cables connected to the 14-way BUC 1 Control and BUC 2
Control connectors on the redundancy controller.
Red BUC 1/BUC 2 LEDs on the control panel of the
redundancy controller indicate that there is a fault with the
corresponding BUC or LNB. In transmit-only systems,
receive stream faults are not indicated. You should observe the
LED indicators on the BUC for details of the alarm condition.
For information on the LED indications on the BUC see
Table 11 on page 59. You can connect a Hand-held
Controller 6560 or a PC running terminal-emulating software
to the BUC 1 Serial and BUC 2 Serial connectors on the
redundancy controller, then diagnose the BUC faults as
required. For more information on using the hand-held
controller see the Hand-held and Remote Controller
6560/6570 User Guide. For more information on using serial
commands on a terminal see page 63, Serial interface
commands.
If you are using remote monitoring and control via a Remote
Controller 6570, the Fault LED for a BUC will illuminate if a
fault is detected. You can use the Faults menu in the remote
controller to diagnose the fault, and the Reset menu to clear
latched faults. For more information on using the remote
controller see the Hand-held and Remote Controller
6560/6570 User Guide.
Power supply
The redundancy controller is powered from the AC mains
supply.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 21
32. Overview
Auxiliary I/O interface of the redundancy controller
The Auxiliary I/O interface of the redundancy controller
enables you to perform the following functions remotely:
• monitor operation of the redundancy switching system
using the isolated relay contacts
• switch streams using external signals
Most of the remote control functions are achieved by
grounding the appropriate control signal to 0 V.
The redundancy controller does not have a
serial remote control facility. However, serial
remote stream switching and monitoring of the
NOTE
redundancy system alarms are available using
the BUC command set via either of the BUC 1
Serial/BUC 2 Serial connectors.
For details about the Auxiliary I/O interface of the redundancy
controller see page 51, Accessing the Auxiliary I/O interface
on the redundancy controller.
22 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
33. Overview
RF waveguide switches
RF waveguide switches control both the receive and transmit
RF paths. The switches direct signals for both on-line and off-
line BUCs and LNBs (when used). Transmit/receive C-Band
systems may use either two RF waveguide switches or one
combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch. Transmit/receive
Ku-Band systems use two RF waveguide switches only.
Transmit-only C-Band or Ku-Band systems use only a single
RF waveguide switch.
Systems using two RF waveguide switches
In the receive path, a receive RF waveguide switch directs the
received RF from the receive port of the antenna feed to one of
the LNBs. The LNB waveguide inputs are coupled to ports 1
and 3 of the LNB switch. The switch is coupled via port 2 to
the WR229 (C-Band) or WR75 (Ku-Band) receive port of the
antenna. A blanking plate normally protects port 4 from the
weather.
In the transmit path, a transmit RF waveguide switch directs
the transmitted RF from the on-line BUC to the transmit port
of the antenna feed. The RF from the off-line BUC is directed
to either a coaxial or a waveguide load.
For transmit RF, the waveguide outputs of the BUCs are
connected to the WR137 (C-Band) or WR75 (Ku-Band) BUC
switch via short waveguide sections to ports 1 and 3. Port 2 of
the switch connects to the antenna via flexible waveguide. A
load or power attenuator terminates port 4 on the switch.
The redundancy controller verifies RF waveguide switching
by monitoring the tell-back contacts of both switches. If the
tell-back contacts indicate an abnormal condition, the BUC
Switch or LNB Switch LEDs on the control panel of the
redundancy controller illuminate red.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 23
34. Overview
Systems using a combined RF waveguide/coaxial
switch (C-Band only)
In the receive path, a receive RF waveguide switch directs the
received RF from the receive port of the antenna feed to one of
the LNBs.
In the transmit path, an RF coaxial switch directs the
transmitted RF from the on-line BUC to the transmit port of
the antenna feed. The RF from the off-line BUC is directed to
an appropriately-rated termination. The combined RF
waveguide/coaxial switch is controlled by a single cable,
which is connected to the LNB Switch Control connector
on the redundancy controller. The BUC Switch Control
connector is not used. The redundancy controller
automatically detects the presence of a combined switch and
configures its monitoring accordingly.
The combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch combines
waveguide and coaxial switching in a single assembly. The
switch is an electrically operated, 4-port WR229 waveguide
transfer switch, which is mechanically integrated with a 4-port
coaxial transfer switch for transmit RF.
The LNBs are directly coupled to ports 1 and 3 of the
combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch. The switch is
coupled via port 2 to the WR229 receive port of the antenna.
A blanking plate normally protects port 4 from the weather.
Coaxial cable connects the BUCs to ports 1 and 3 of the
N-type switch. The transmit antenna feed connects to port 2 of
the switch. A load or power attenuator connects to port 4.
The redundancy controller verifies RF waveguide switching
by monitoring the tell-back contacts to the combined RF
waveguide/coaxial switch. If the tell-back contacts indicate an
abnormal condition, the LNB Switch LEDs on the control
panel of the redundancy controller illuminate red.
In the combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch
installation, the BUC Switch LEDs on the
NOTE
control panel of the redundancy controller will
not illuminate.
24 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
35. Overview
Systems using a single transmit RF waveguide
switch (transmit-only)
In the transmit path, a single transmit RF waveguide switch
directs the transmitted RF from the on-line BUC to the
transmit port of the antenna feed. The RF from the off-line
BUC is directed into an appropriately-rated termination. The
switch is controlled by a cable connected to the LNB Switch
Control connector.
The switch is an electrically operated, 4-port WR137 (for
C-Band) or WR75 (for Ku-Band) waveguide transfer switch.
The BUCs are connected to ports 1 and 3 of the switch. The
switch is coupled via port 2 to the transmit port of the antenna.
A load or power attenuator connects to port 4.
The redundancy controller verifies RF waveguide switching
by monitoring the tell-back contacts to the RF waveguide
switch. If the tell-back contacts indicate an abnormal
condition, the BUC Switch LEDs on the control panel of the
redundancy controller illuminate red.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 25
36. Overview
The Remote Controller 6570 and Hand-held
Controller 6560
The Remote Controller 6570 provides remote control and
monitoring facilities of the BUCs at a convenient indoor
location. The remote controller is connected via its BUC
Interface connector to the Auxiliary I/O connector on the
redundancy controller using the cable supplied.
The Hand-held Controller 6560 provides local control and
monitoring facilities of the BUCs at the outdoor-mounted
redundancy controller. A hand-held controller may be
connected to the BUC 1 Serial or BUC 2 Serial connector.
Alternatively, a BUC may be directly controlled by the hand-
held controller by disconnecting the M/C cable from the
M/C connector on the BUC, and connecting the hand-held
controller in its place.
26 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
37. 2 Installation CODAN
This section contains the following topics:
Unpacking the equipment (28)
Installing the BUC equipment (28)
Cable recommendations (32)
Serial interfaces (37)
Connecting the serial interface (39)
Monitor and control interface of the BUC (40)
Installing the redundancy system (42)
Serial interfaces of the BUCs from the redundancy
controller (50)
Accessing the Auxiliary I/O interface on the redundancy
controller (51)
Setting up the redundancy switching equipment (53)
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 27
38. Installation
Unpacking the equipment
Ensure that the packing boxes are upright as indicated by the
printing on the boxes. Open each box and check for signs of
damage to the equipment. If you notice any damage, contact
Codan immediately to obtain an RMA. Failure to contact
Codan before returning the unit may result in any warranty
being void.
Installing the BUC equipment
All equipment that is mounted outdoors must be
adequately weatherproofed.
Ensure all waveguide joints are properly sealed
WARNING with the appropriate gasket.
Use self-amalgamating tape to seal connectors
and cable entry points from the connector to the
cable sheath.
Water is the most common cause of poor
performance in VSAT installations. Ensure that
CAUTION
all cables and waveguide junctions are properly
sealed.
A radiation hazard exists if the BUC is operated
WARNING with its RF output unterminated (see page 123,
Radiation safety).
28 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
39. Installation
TRF and LNB
The TRF and LNB are normally mounted directly on the
antenna feed structure.
The LNB obtains the required +15 to +24 V DC power and, in
certain cases, the 10 MHz reference signal from a compatible
L-Band modem. The modem is connected to the receive
output connector of the LNB.
BUC
BUCs are supplied with either N-type or waveguide outputs.
A mounting kit is supplied with the BUC. Some mounting kits
allow the BUC to be mounted on the boom or pedestal of the
antenna. Other kits may also be available for different
mounting options. Contact your antenna manufacturer if you
have specific installation requirements.
Cables
Use an IF coaxial cable to connect the modem to the BUC (see
page 32, Cable recommendations). It is recommended that you
use the same type of cable to connect the modem to the LNB.
If you are using the RS232/422 serial interface, use an M/C
cable to connect the BUC to a PC (see page 40, Monitor and
control interface of the BUC).
DC power connection
There are two types of BUCs that are DC-powered: those
powered via the IF INPUT connector, and those powered via
an external connector.
BUCs that are powered via the IF INPUT connector receive
DC power from a source via the IF cable. See BUC
specifications or compare your BUC model number against
Table 27 on page 111 for the exact voltage range of your BUC.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 29
40. Installation
BUCs that are externally powered from a DC source require
appropriate DC power from an external source. See BUC
specifications or compare your BUC model number against
Table 27 on page 111 for the exact voltage range of your BUC.
Certain BUCs with external DC power
connectors may also have auto-sensing circuits,
and can be powered from either the external
NOTE
connector or via the IF INPUT connector. If
both connectors are powered, the external
connector is automatically selected.
AC mains connection
AC-powered BUCs operate with any AC input voltage in the
range 115–230 V AC. Check BUC specifications for the exact
voltage range of your BUC.
Voltages outside of these limits may cause
WARNING
damage to the BUC.
To connect the BUC to the AC mains:
1 Connect the AC power lead to the AC mains supply.
Before applying power to the BUC, ensure
that the installation complies with the
WARNING safety precautions listed on page 123,
Electromagnetic compatibility and safety
notices.
1 Ensure the isolating switch for the AC supply is switched
off.
1 Connect the AC power lead to the AC INPUT connector
on the BUC.
If you need to make your own AC mains cable, or reterminate
the cable supplied, Table 8 lists the pin connections and
describes the input functions available on the AC INPUT
connector on the BUC.
30 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
41. Installation
Table 8: Pinouts of the AC INPUT connector
(Amphenol T 3110 000)
Pin Description
1 Neutral
2 Not connected
3 Active
Protective earth
It is recommended that BUCs are installed as close as possible
to the antenna feed to minimise losses.
Heavier BUCs may need to be mounted further
CAUTION down the boom to minimise the mechanical
leverage load on the antenna.
If the waveguide output of each BUC is attached directly to
the RF waveguide switch with a rigid connection, ensure that
there are no undue stresses on the waveguide section when the
flange hardware is tightened. Tighten the BUC mounting
screws last. The long mounting rails have oversized holes to
enable the BUC to be secured in the exact position required,
which avoids stressing the rigid waveguide component.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 31
42. Installation
Cable recommendations
Table 9 lists the recommended specifications for IF coaxial
cables used in your system. These specifications place
restrictions on the maximum length of the transmit IF cable.
The limiting factor is most likely the 20 dB maximum cable
loss. Cables that have 20 dB cable loss at L-Band frequencies
usually have DC loop resistances much less than those shown
below.
Table 9: Recommendations for IF coaxial cables
Characteristic Recommendation
Cable loss at operating 20 dB maximum
frequency
DC loop resistance 2 Ω maximum (+48 V BUC)
1 Ω maximum (+24 V BUC)
Screening 100 dB minimum
Nominal impedance 50 Ω
Connectors BUC end: N-type male
connector
Indoor end: connector to suit the
modem used
Cable loss specification
The recommended maximum cable loss is derived from the
maximum output power normally provided by modems and
the maximum gain of the BUC.
32 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
43. Installation
DC loop resistance specification
The maximum DC loop resistance is determined by the DC
power drawn by a BUC and its minimum operating input
voltage. Some BUCs are not powered via the cable, so the DC
loop resistance of the IF cable is not a consideration for such
BUC installations.
To ensure correct operation, the DC loop
CAUTION
resistance figure must not be exceeded.
Cable screening specification
Cable screening is derived from regulatory requirements
related to the radiation of spurious signals from the antenna.
Screening is more critical if the BUC is co-located with other
radio transmitting equipment, for example, mobile-phone
towers.
Cable lengths
Table 10 shows the maximum lengths of different types of
cables to ensure the 20 dB loss recommendation is not
exceeded. The cable lengths are shown in metres and feet.
Table 10: Cable lengths resulting in a 20 dB loss
Frequency RG223 Belden 9914 Belden 9913F Times
(MHz) (m (ft)) (m (ft)) (m (ft)) Microwave
LMR-400
(m (ft))
950 43 (141) 104 (341) 125 (410) 150 (492)
1450 34 (111) 81 (266) 99 (325) 120 (394)
1700 31 (102) 74 (243) 91 (299) 111 (364)
1750 31 (102) 73 (240) 89 (292) 109 (358)
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 33
44. Installation
IF levels
The figures and tables in this section show the single carrier IF
levels required to achieve rated P1dB output power from the
BUC using various types and lengths of IF cables. Your actual
IF levels may be different from those shown if you are
operating with multiple carriers and you require output back
off to control intermodulation product levels.
Examples are provided for short cables (with a 3 dB loss) and
long cables (with a 20 dB loss).
The figures in this section are provided as examples only. You
should determine the loss of your selected cable from its
length and your operating frequency (see Table 10 on
page 33). You can then set the modem IF output level and the
BUC attenuator to achieve the required output power.
As a general principle, you should set the BUC attenuator at
the highest possible attenuation setting given the available
modem IF output power and the cable loss. This reduces the
susceptibility of the system to external interference.
34 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
45. Installation
Using short IF cables
Figure 11 shows the IF levels required when using short IF
cables such as the following:
• 5 m RG223
• 12 m 9914
• 15 m 9913F
• 18 m LMR-400
Figure 11: IF levels required for short cables
Modem IF cable BUC
BUC gain –
Gain –3 dB attenuator
setting
–19 dBm +
Input/output
level –16 dBm –19 dBm (BUC gain –
attenuator setting)
Refer to the relevant specifications sheets for the detailed specifications for your BUC
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 35
46. Installation
Using long IF cables
Figure 12 shows the IF levels required when using long IF
cables such as the following:
• 34 m RG223
• 80 m 9914
• 100 m 9913F
• 120 m LMR-400
Figure 12: IF levels required for long cables
Modem IF cable BUC
BUC gain –
Gain –20 dB attenuator
setting
–27 dBm +
Input/output
level –7 dBm –27 dBm (BUC gain –
attenuator setting)
Refer to the relevant specifications sheets for the detailed specifications for your BUC
36 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
47. Installation
Serial interfaces
The following serial interfaces are provided:
• RS232 and RS422/485 available on the M/C connector
on the BUC
• FSK available on the IF INPUT connector on the BUC
RS232 interface
The RS232 serial interface supports both the ASCII and the
Codan packet protocols simultaneously. Responses to
commands are returned in the same protocol format as they
are sent. The RS232 serial interface operates with the
following parameters:
data rate 9600 bps
word length 8 bits
parity none
stop bit 1
The fixed data rate and protocol simplifies the connection
during installation and commissioning, and enables a PC
running a terminal-emulation program to be used to configure
the BUC. For information on protocols, contact your Codan
representative.
The BUC is able to detect the connection of an RS232
interface. When an RS232 interface is used, the BUC inhibits
the use of the Set and Reset commands on the RS422/485 and
FSK interfaces. View and Output commands can still be used
on these interfaces. This functionality is provided for safety
reasons.
If you disabled transmission, don’t forget to
NOTE re-enable it before you remove the RS232
connection.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 37
48. Installation
For example, a technician working on a BUC at the antenna
can make an RS232 connection and disable transmissions.
Transmissions cannot be re-enabled at another source, but the
other interfaces can still monitor the BUC parameters. When
the RS232 connection is removed and transmission is restored
using the RS232 interface, normal monitor and control
operation is restored.
RS422/485 interface
The RS422/485 interface can be operated in either 2-wire or
4-wire mode. The RS422/485 interface enables monitor and
control of the BUC over long distances using other protocols
that are not available for use with the RS232 interface.
FSK interface
The FSK interface enables monitor and control of the BUC
over long distances using other protocols that are not available
for use with the RS232 interface. The FSK interface does not
require an extra monitor and control serial cable, but does
require a modem with FSK monitor and control capability. If
an appropriate modem is not available, contact your Codan
representative to find out what accessories are available to
access the FSK interface.
38 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
49. Installation
Connecting the serial interface
To set the operating parameters of the BUC, the BUC must be
connected to a terminal (for example, a Hand-held Controller
6560, a Remote Controller 6570, a PC, or an organiser
emulating a terminal).
The connection may be permanent as part of the installation or
temporary for the purpose of setting the operating parameters
of the BUC.
Permanent interface connection
A permanent interface connection can be provided via the
monitor and control interface of the BUC (see Figure 13 on
page 41). The RS232 serial interface may only be used for
distances less than 15 m. The RS422/485 serial interface may
be used for distances up to approximately 1 km.
The Remote Controller 6570 is designed as a permanent
interface connection and is supplied with a standard 50 m
cable.
Temporary interface connection
A serial interface cable is available to connect the BUC to the
RS232 serial port of a PC or an organiser emulating a
terminal, or you may connect a Hand-held Controller 6560.
If using a PC, connect the cable between the M/C connector of
the BUC and the serial port of the PC. This cable provides a
14-way female MS-style connector to 9-way D-type female
connector for connection to the PC. If connection to a 25-way
D-type serial port is required, use a standard 25-way female to
9-way male adaptor.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 39
50. Installation
Monitor and control interface of the BUC
The monitor and control interface of the BUC provides a relay
contact to indicate the fault status of the BUC. See Figure 13
for the pin assignments of the M/C connector. A
MIL-C-26482 12-14P connector (for example,
MS3116F12-14P) is required to mate with the M/C connector.
40 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
51. Installation
Figure 13: Monitor and control interface of the BUC
+10 V M +10 V DC (nominal)
output (150 mA max.)
+5 V H
0V
1k C
RS422/485 Rx+
*
120
L
RS422/485 Rx–
+5 V
1k
1k
B RS422/485 Tx+/Rx+
* (RS422/485 TxB/RxB)
120
F RS422/485 Tx–/Rx–
+12 V (RS422/485 TxA/RxA)
1k
D
Not connected
10 k
E
RS232 RxD
A
RS232 TxD
K
Summary Alarm
(open on alarm
J 30 V @ 1 A max.)
+2.5 V
+5 V
1k5
–
R
+ LNB Fault
+5 V
1k5
–
N Redundancy Controller
+ Fault
+5 V
1k5
–
P
+ On-line Input/Output
*Bus termination resistors
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 41
52. Installation
Installing the redundancy system
Mounting the redundancy controller
The redundancy controller has two mounting flanges. Each
flange has 10 mounting holes. If you are going to use the
mounting kit supplied, fitting instructions are provided in the
kit.
Mount the redundancy controller upright on or near the
antenna structure. A protected position is preferable however,
the redundancy controller can withstand exposure to outdoor
conditions.
Installing separate transmit and receive RF waveguide
switches
Handle the switches with care. They are easily
WARNING
damaged.
Transmit RF waveguide switch
To install the transmit RF waveguide switch (BUC switch):
1 Connect ports 1 and 3 of the transmit RF waveguide
switch to the BUC outputs using the waveguide sections
and flange kits as shown in the mounting drawings.
In C-Band installations, use the appropriate
NOTE
flange kit.
In Ku-Band installations, ensure the
appropriate o-ring is used, otherwise
NOTE sealing will be compromised or correct
mating of the waveguide flanges will not
be possible.
42 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
53. Installation
1 Connect port 2 of the transmit RF waveguide switch to
the transmit flange of the antenna feed using gasket kits
and rigid or flexible waveguide as appropriate.
If connecting the Ku-Band transmit RF
waveguide switch to a waveguide section
NOTE that has clearance holes for 6-32 UNC
hardware, a waveguide adaptor kit is
available.
1 Connect the off-line BUC load to port 4 of the transmit
RF waveguide switch as shown in the mounting
drawings.
Ensure all joints are completely
CAUTION
weatherproof.
Spare flange kits are provided with the
redundancy package. The universal
Ku-Band flange kit contains a selection of
NOTE
flat gaskets and circular cross-section
gaskets (both large and small
cross-sectional diameter).
1 In transmit-only systems, fit the transmit-only connector
assembly to the LNB Switch Control connector.
1 Connect the transmit RF waveguide switch to the BUC
Switch Control connector using the cable supplied.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 43
54. Installation
Receive RF waveguide switch (transmit/receive
systems only)
To install the receive RF waveguide switch (LNB switch):
1 Fit the TRF (if used) to the receive port of the antenna
feed using the appropriate flange kit for C-Band and
Ku-Band, selecting the correct gasket.
1 Hold waveguide port 2 of the receive RF waveguide
switch against the receive port of the antenna feed or
TRF (if fitted). Decide which way the switch is to face.
1 For Ku-Band installations, attach the 2" rigid WR75
waveguide sections to ports 1 and 3 of the receive RF
waveguide switch using the appropriate flange kit.
1 Attach the LNBs to:
• ports 1 and 3 of the receive RF waveguide switch using
the appropriate flange kit for C-Band
• the 2" rigid waveguide sections using the appropriate
flange kit for Ku-Band
For Ku-Band installations, ensure the
appropriate o-ring is used, otherwise
NOTE sealing will be compromised or correct
mating of the waveguide flanges will not
be possible.
1 Clamp the gaskets tightly to ensure perfect seals.
1 If the blanking plate was not factory fitted, attach it to
port 4 of the receive RF waveguide switch using the
appropriate flange kit.
1 If you want to allow for dry air pressurisation, fit the
supplied air nozzle to the blanking plate. If this is not
required, fit the M5 screw with seal into the blanking
plate.
1 Attach the receive RF waveguide switch to the receive
port of the antenna feed using the appropriate flange kit.
44 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
55. Installation
If connecting the Ku-Band receive RF
waveguide switch to a receive port of the
antenna feed that has clearance holes for
6-32 UNC hardware, a waveguide adaptor
kit is available.
NOTE Spare flange kits are provided with the
redundancy package. The universal
Ku-Band flange kit contains a selection of
flat gaskets and circular cross-section
gaskets (both large and small cross-
sectional diameter).
1 Connect the receive RF waveguide switch to the LNB
Switch Control connector using the cable supplied.
Installing the combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch
(C-Band transmit/receive systems only)
Handle the switch with care. It is easily
WARNING
damaged.
To install the combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch:
1 Fit the TRF (if used) to the receive port of the antenna
feed using the appropriate flange kit.
1 Hold waveguide port 2 of the combined RF
waveguide/coaxial switch against the antenna receive
feed. Decide which way the switch is to face.
1 Attach the LNBs to ports 1 and 3 of the RF waveguide
section of the switch using the appropriate flange kit.
1 Clamp the gaskets tightly to ensure perfect seals.
1 If the blanking plate was not factory fitted, attach it to
port 4 of the waveguide section of the switch using the
appropriate flange kit (see the mounting and
interconnection drawings).
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 45
56. Installation
1 If you want to allow for dry air pressurisation, fit the
supplied air nozzle to the blanking plate. If this is not
required, fit the M5 screw with seal into the blanking
plate.
1 Connect the off-line BUC termination to port 4 of the
coaxial section of the switch as shown in the mounting
and interconnection drawings.
In some configurations, the termination
NOTE
consists of multiple parts.
1 Connect the outputs of the BUCs to the corresponding
N-type connectors of the coaxial section of the switch
using the coaxial cables supplied.
1 Connect port 2 of the coaxial section of the switch to the
transmit port of the antenna feed using the coaxial cable
supplied.
1 Seal all N-type connections with self-amalgamating tape.
Ensure all joints are completely
CAUTION
weatherproof.
Spare flange kits are supplied with the
NOTE redundancy package to provide for various
installation requirements.
1 Connect the combined RF waveguide/coaxial switch to
the LNB Switch Control connector using the cable
supplied.
The BUC Switch Control connector is
NOTE
not used in this configuration.
46 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
57. Installation
Connecting the power cables
The redundancy controller is AC mains powered.
To connect the power cable to the redundancy controller:
1 Connect the supplied cable to the AC Power Input
connector on the redundancy controller.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 47
58. Installation
Connecting the control cables
To connect the control cables:
1 Connect the BUC 1 Control connector and the BUC 2
Control connector on the redundancy controller to the
corresponding M/C connector on each BUC using the
control cables supplied.
For high-power BUC systems, connect the BUC 1
Control connector and the BUC 2 Control connector
on the redundancy controller to the corresponding
M/C connector on each BUC and the corresponding
CONTROL connector on each high-power SSPA using
the specific control cables supplied.
Connecting the IF from the redundancy controller to the
BUCs
To connect the IF cables:
1 Connect the Tx IF Output 1 connector and the Tx IF
Output 2 connector on the redundancy controller to the
corresponding IF INPUT connector on each BUC using
the coaxial cables supplied.
Connecting the IF cables between an L-Band IF modem (or
other equipment) and the redundancy controller
To connect the IF cables:
1 Connect the transmit IF output connector on the L-Band
IF modem (or other equipment) to the Tx IF Input
connector on the redundancy controller using a suitable
coaxial cable.
1 In systems other than transmit-only, connect the receive
IF input connector on the L-Band IF modem (or other
equipment) to the Rx IF Output connector on the
redundancy controller using a suitable coaxial cable.
48 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
59. Installation
Connecting the IF from the LNBs to the redundancy
controller
To connect the IF cables:
1 Connect the corresponding N-type IF output connector
on each LNB to the Rx IF Input 1 connector and the Rx
IF Input 2 connector on the redundancy controller using
the coaxial cable supplied.
Grounding the installation
To ground the installation:
1 Connect a separate earth strap from the protective earth
terminal on each unit directly to the common earth stake.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 49
60. Installation
Serial interfaces of the BUCs from the
redundancy controller
The M/C connector on each BUC includes the serial interface
of the BUC. Although the redundancy controller plugs into
this connector, the redundancy controller uses relay contacts to
communicate with the BUC.
You can access the serial interface of each BUC via the
14-way BUC 1 Serial or BUC 2 Serial connector on the
redundancy controller. These connectors are suitable for
temporary connection of a PC or Hand-held Controller 6560
as they have the same RS232 serial pin connections as the
M/C connector on the BUC.
The RS485 serial interfaces for both BUCs are included in the
19-way Auxiliary I/O connector interface of the redundancy
controller for remote monitor and control applications via the
Remote Controller 6570.
50 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
61. Installation
Accessing the Auxiliary I/O interface on the
redundancy controller
Remote control and monitoring of the redundancy switching
system is accessible via the 19-way Auxiliary I/O connector
on the redundancy controller.
To use this 19-way connector, you need a 19-way
Mil-C-26482 series plug, part number MS3116J14-19P.
Figure 14 on page 52 shows the monitor and control interface
at the Auxiliary I/O connector of the redundancy controller.
Contacts are shown in their de-energised state.
Relay contacts indicate the following faults and operational
status of the redundancy system (the four relay contacts share
a common contact connection):
• Stream 1 Fault
• Stream 2 Fault
• Stream Selected
• Redundancy Controller Fault
Inputs are provided to allow remote control via contact
closures:
• control source
• Auto or Manual Mode
• stream selection
The RS485 connections parallel the two BUC RS485
interfaces to enable remote control of both BUCs using a
Remote Controller 6570, or using serial commands with a PC
running terminal-emulating software.
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 51
62. Installation
Figure 14: Auxiliary I/O interface of the redundancy
controller
+12 V
U +12 V
250 mA D GND
BUC 1
B Rx Data ‘A’ (RS422/485)
C Rx Data ‘B’ (RS422/485)
A Tx Data ‘A’ (RS422/485)
P Tx Data ‘B’ (RS422/485)
S Stream 1 Fault
BUC 2
Alarm contacts T Stream 2 Fault
open on fault
M Redundancy Controller
Fault
L Relay Common
V Stream Selected
(open = Stream 1)
+12 V
3k3 Disable
Remote
J Control
K Enable
+12 V
3k3 Auto
N Mode
F Manual
+12 V
3k3 Stream 1
Stream
G Select
H Stream 2
52 Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide
63. Installation
Setting up the redundancy switching
equipment
To set up the redundancy switching equipment:
1 Set the AC voltage selector on the control panel of the
redundancy controller to the appropriate voltage for your
operating environment.
1 Switch on the modem(s), then switch off the carrier(s).
1 Apply power to the redundancy controller and the BUCs.
1 Connect a Hand-held Controller 6560 to the BUC 1
Serial connector, then to the BUC 2 Serial connector
on the redundancy controller, and set the following
parameters:
Parameter Menu Setting
Tx state Control Tx off (initially)
Redundancy Auxiliary Hot standby
mode (preferred)
Warm standby
IF comp freq/RF Main Both BUCs must
comp freq have the same
settings
Tx attenuation Main
LO Auxiliary
Tx default Auxiliary
Block Up Converter Systems 6700/6900 series User Guide 53
