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Series 94

Troubleshooting Guide

Document No
March 2001
119292-0
Marine Stabilized Antenna Systems
Introduction Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

I Introduction
This troubleshooting guide is organized into 5 sections which are intended to help you operate, test and
troubleshoot Series 94 Stabilized Antenna Systems. Should you find any errors, or have any suggestions, please
call or fax your input to Sea Tel.
Refer to the appropriate Quick Start Operation guide for your system for routine operation.
When you need to isolate a problem, start with the Troubleshooting Procedures section. Many problems are
actually found to be an incorrect operator setting or parameter, rather than a component failure. Follow the
procedures through Initial Power-up Operation, to functional Testing and finally to Problem Scenarios or
Troubleshooting Modules.
If you have identified a specific failure, you may prefer to go directly to the appropriate Troubleshooting Module(s)
to begin (refer to the Table of Contents).
In using this troubleshooting guide you may be pointed from a procedure, test or problem to another section or to
a troubleshooting module. You may also be directed from one troubleshooting module to another. The “action to
take/step to go to” column contains several key words which are used to direct you. These are:
(blank) go to the next step down
re-check re-check this step before going on
re-test re-test a specific step then proceed as directed by that step
return return to the previous module step or procedure that pointed you to this section of steps
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
The tools and equipment necessary to perform these tests are:
a. Service Manual with Troubleshooting Guide
b. Multimeter
c. Basic Technicians tools
d. Spare Parts Kit
e. Bubble level (small)
f. 9-Pin Loop-Back connector
g. 15-Pin In-Line test-point connector
CAUTIONS
Equipment damage:
a. Do NOT “hot plug” connections to the TAC-92C while power is ON. This will cause damage to
the Aux Serial Ports (J11 & J13), Main PCB (any Antenna control connection) and PCU (any
Antenna control connection).
b. Aux Serial Ports (J11 & J13) have +24VDC output, when connecting a computer to these ports
use Cable PN 116670.
Electrical shock/personnel safety:
a. AC voltage exists in the TAC-92C, exercise caution to prevent electrical shock.
b. AC voltage from a Synchro Gyrocompass input to the TAC-92C is NOT turned OFF when the
TAC-92C power is OFF. Exercise caution to prevent electrical shock.

Sea Tel, Inc. Sea Tel Europe


1035 Shary Court Unit 1 Orion Industrial Centre
Concord, CA 94518 USA
Tel: 925-798-7979 Wide Lane Swaythling
Fax: 925-798-7986 Southhampton S018 2HJ
Toll Free: 1-888-798-7979 Tel: +44 (0)23 80 671155
Email: seatel@seatel.com Fax: +44 (0)23 80 671166
http://www.seatel.com e-mail: europe@seatel.com

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Table of Contents

I Introduction 1-1
II Quick Start Operation 2-1
III Troubleshooting Procedures 3-1
1 Basic system power-up and initial operation 3-1
1.1 Turn on the satellite receiver(s) 3-1
1.2 Other Distribution Equipment 3-1
1.3 Turn on the TV(s) 3-1
1.4 WeSat Equipment 3-1
1.5 Turn TAC-92C Power ON 3-1
1.5.1 Press RESET 3-1
1.5.2 Front Panel key checks 3-2
1.5.3 Press the SHIP 3-2
1.5.4 Press SAT 3-2
1.5.5 Verify that the TAC-92C parameters 3-2
1.6 When the antenna has completed initializing 3-3
1.6.1 If the antenna acquires the desired satellite 3-3
1.6.2 If the antenna is not on the DESIRED satellite 3-3
1.6.3 If the antenna does not acquire any satellite 3-4
1.7 Check for blockage 3-4
2 Functional Testing 3-4
2.1 TAC-92C Front Panel Test 3-4
2.2 Azimuth Drive Test 3-4
2.3 Elevation Drive Test 3-4
2.4 Targeting Test 3-5
2.4.1 Test Targeting 3-5
2.4.2 Evaluate AZ & EL TRIM Values 3-6
2.5 AGC Signal Level Tests 3-7
2.6 Tracking Test 3-8
2.7 Heading Testing 3-8
2.7.1 Internal Fluxgate 3-8
2.7.2 External Fluxgate 3-8
2.7.3 Gyrocompass - NMEA Heading Output 3-9
2.7.4 Gyrocompass - Step-By-Step (SBS) Heading Output 3-9
2.7.5 Gyrocompass - Synchro Heading Output 3-10
2.8 Underway Testing 3-10
2.9 Initialization Test 3-11
2.10 Rate Sensor / Stabilization Test 3-11
2.11 Fluxgate Compensation Test 3-11
3 Symptom / Problem Scenarios 3-12
3.1 Antenna Drifts Off Satellite 3-12
3.2 Channels Freeze Frame 3-12
3.3 Constant Unwrap LED 3-13
3.4 Heading Input Fault Isolation 3-13
3.4.1 Internal Fluxgate Fault Isolation 3-13
3.4.2 Ships Gyrocompass Fault Isolation - General 3-13
3.4.3 SBS Gyrocompass Output 3-14
3.4.4 Synchro Gyrocompass Output (36:1, 90:1 or 360:1) 3-14
3.4.5 Synchro Gyrocompass Output (1:1 ONLY) 3-14
Introduction Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

Table of Contents
3.5 IF Distribution Problem 3-15
3.6 Remote Not Responding 3-15
3.7 TAC-92C Display Blank 3-15
IV Troubleshooting Modules
ACC1.0 Antenna Control Cable 4-1
AZD1.0 Azimuth Drive problems 4-4
AZR1.0 Azimuth Rate Sensor 4-9
CLD1.0 Cross Level Drive problems 4-12
CLR1.0 Cross Level Rate Sensor 4-17
COMP1.0 Remote Compensation failure 4-21
ELD1.0 Elevation Drive problems 4-22
ELR1.0 Elevation Rate Sensor 4-27
ENC1.0 Encoder failure 4-31
ERR1.0 Error Codes 4-33
ERR2.0 ERROR CODE 0001 – Gyro Read Error 4-34
ERR3.0 ERROR CODE 0002 – Wrong Synchro Converter Type 4-41
ERR4.0 ERROR CODE 0004 –Communications error 4-44
ERR5.0 ERROR CODE 0008 – Pedestal function error 4-47
ERR6.0 ERROR CODE 0016 – Conscan error 4-48
ERR7.0 ERROR CODE 0032 – Reserved for future use 4-55
ERR8.0 ERROR CODE 0064 – Reserved for future use 4-56
ERR9.0 ERROR CODE 0128 – Satellite Out Of Range 4-57
FLUX1.0 Fluxgate Failure 4-58
HOME1.0 Home Sensor / Home Flag 4-59
INIT1.0 Antenna Initialization 4-61
LEV1.0 Level Cage Motor (Size 17 Stepper Motor) 4-64
MINST1.0 Mechanical Installation 4-69
ROM1.0 Range of Motion 4-71
SIG1.0 RF/IF Signal Distribution 4-72
SPOOL1.0 Spooler Cable 4-74
TAC1.0 TAC-92C Power Supply 4-78
TILT1.0 Tilt Sensor 4-82
UNWRAP1.0 Unwrap LED is lit frequently or constantly 4-85
VIS1.0 Visual Inspection 4-86
V Drawings
Model 2094 Stabilized Pedestal 5-1
Model 2494 Stabilized Pedestal 5-1
Model 3294 Stabilized Pedestal 5-1
Model 4094 Stabilized Pedestal 5-2
Model 4894 Stabilized Pedestal 5-2
Model 6094 Stabilized Pedestal 5-3
Radomes for DBS Antenna Pedestals 5-3
Model TAC-92C Tracking Antenna Controller 5-3

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Quick Start
Operation for Series 94 DBS Systems
Perform the following when the ship HAS NOT significantly changed geographic location or satellite selection, and the system has been turned OFF.

You enter information on the TAC 92 keyboard: The TAC 92 will display:
1. Turn Power “ON” Display should read “REMOTE INITIALIZING”
Power switch is located in upper right
corner of TAC-92 Rear panel. System will automatically go through an initialization
Turn on Television and Satellite receiver sequence which takes approximately 2 minutes.
2. If you have the TAC-92 interfaced to the ships’ GYRO,
Press “SHIP” four times. (If not, Go To Step 4) Display should read “HDG xxx.x”
3. Key in the current ships Heading to the nearest
degree, then press “ENTER”. Press “RESET”.
4. After Initialization Display will change to read “REMOTE ...VER.X.XX”

When Initialization is complete the “SEARCHING” light (green) will flash and the “UNWRAP” light (red)
may be ON. In approximately 30 seconds the “SEARCHING” and “UNWRAP” lights will extinguish and the
“TRACKING” light (green) will begin to flash. Within 15-30 seconds the “TRACKING” light will be ON solid
-OR- the “SEARCHING” light will be ON solid. When the satellite has been acquired the “TRACKING” light
will be ON solid. You may then select desired program channel. See DBS Receiver Manual for details.

Perform the following when the ship HAS significantly changed geographic location or satellite selection, and the system has been turned OFF.

You enter information on the TAC 92 keyboard: The TAC 92 will display:
1. Turn Power “ON” Display should read “REMOTE INITIALIZING”
Power switch is located in upper right
corner of TAC-92 Rear panel. System will automatically go through an initialization
Turn on Television and Satellite receiver sequence which takes approximately 2 minutes.
2. During initialization, press “SHIP” twice Display should read “LAT xxx”
3. Key in the correct Latitude to the nearest degree.
Use the “N/S/E/W” key to select either North
or South hemisphere, then press “ENTER”.
4. Press the “SHIP” key once more Display will change to read “LON xxx”
5. Key in the correct Longitude to the nearest degree.
Use the “N/S/E/W” key to select East or West
Longitude, then press “ENTER”.
6. If you have the TAC-92 interfaced to the ships GYRO, Display should read “HDG xxx.x”
press “SHIP” once more. (If not, Go To Step 8)
7. Key in the current ships Heading to the nearest degree,
then press “ENTER”. Go to Step 11
8. Press the “MODE” key 5 times. Key in 7979, then
press “ENTER”. Press “MODE” once more
or until the display reads “AZ TRIM xxxx”. Display should read “AZ TRIM xxxx”
CONTINUED ON BACK... DOC.#117192
9. From the MAGNETIC VARIATION TABLE below, choose
the city nearest your location and key in its AZ TRIM
value using all 4 digits; for POSITIVE values press
“ENTER”, for NEGATIVE values, press “N/S/E/W”
and then press“ENTER”.
10. Press “MODE” until “SAVE NEW PARAMETERS” Display should read “SAVE NEW PARAMETERS”
is displayed. Press the UP arrow once, release,
then press “ENTER”.
11. Press the “SAT” key twice. Display should read “SAT xxx”.
12. Key in the appropriate SAT Longitude from the
SATELLITE POSITION TABLE below.
Use the “N/S/E/W” key to select East or West
Longitude, then press “ENTER”.
13. Press ”RESET”. After initialization... Display will change to read “REMOTE...VER.x.xx”

When Initialization is complete the “SEARCHING” light (green) will flash and the “UNWRAP” light (red)
may be ON. In approximately 30 seconds the “SEARCHING” and “UNWRAP” lights will extinguish and the
“TRACKING” light (green) will begin to flash. Within 15-30 seconds the “TRACKING” light will be ON solid
-OR- the “SEARCHING” light will be ON solid. When the satellite has been acquired the “TRACKING” light
will be ON solid. You may then select desired program channel. See DBS Receiver Manual for details.

SATELLITE POSITION TABLE

SATELLITE SERVICE SATELLITE LONGITUDE (enter)


DSS (Direct TV ® & USSB®) 101W
Dish Network® 119W, 65W, 148W
GLA™ (Galaxy Caribbean) 95W
WeSat™ - GOES 8 75W
WeSat™ - GOES 10 135W

MAGNETIC VARIATION TABLE


Choose the city nearest your location and key in its AZ TRIM value. See Steps 8 and 9 above.
POSITIVE variations for West Coast U.S. and NEGATIVE for East Coast U.S.

LATITUDE & LONGITUDE LOCATION AZ TRIM Value (enter)


48N 123W Seattle, WA 0190
38N 122W San Francisco, CA 0160
33N 117W San Diego, CA 0130
30N 90W New Orleans, LA 0020
28N 82W Tampa, FL -0030*
26N 80W Miami, FL -0040*
37N 76W Norfolk, VA -0100*
39N 75W Atlantic City, NJ -0130*
44N 70W Portland, ME -0180*

*Negative AZ TRIM is entered by pressing the “N/S/E/W” key before pressing “ENTER”.

Sea Tel, Inc. TEL: 925-798-7979


1035 Shary Court E-Mail: seatel@seatel.com
Concord, CA 94518 www.seatel.com
Look to the Leader. Look to SeaTel.
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

III Troubleshooting Procedures

Each test in this troubleshooting section steps through specific operations of the system. If the system does not
operate as explained, then follow the Troubleshooting Guide module listed after each step. This section also
includes common problems experienced in the field and solutions for each. The Troubleshooting Guide modules
are arranged in alphabetical order (i.e., AZD, ENC, UNWRAP, etc.). Each module refers to drawings and/or
schematics which should be used during troubleshooting. The drawings and schematics for all Series 94 model
systems can be found in SECTION 5 following the troubleshooting modules. The Drawing list is organized by
Model and includes a list of radome and TAC-92C drawings. The drawings following the listing are in drawing
number order.

1 Basic system power-up and initial operation


This set-up procedure should be used for initial operation of the system. This will ensure that the antenna system
is set up correctly before trying to isolate a possible Electrical and/or Mechanical fault. The most common failures
are due to incorrect operator settings, incorrect parameter settings or blockage.
1.1 Turn on the satellite receiver(s)
Using the remote, make the menu selections necessary to view the signal meter display (Most European
receivers do not have this option). This display will help in determining if the antenna is tracking the
correct satellite. Also, the signal meter shows a transponder number. The odd numbered transponders
indicate “left hand” polarized signals and the even numbered transponders indicate “right hand” polarized
signals. This information will be useful if troubleshooting an RF distribution problem.
1.2 Other Distribution Equipment
Assure that modulators, standards converters, amplifiers and any other equipment in the system
configuration are also energized.
1.3 Turn on the TV(s)
Assure that the television is set for the correct channel (or input) to display the satellite programming.
1.4 WeSat Equipment
If applicable, turn ON WeSat receiver and open the Weather software on the computer and select
“receive Geostationary”. A helpful tool is to connect a speaker to the audio jack on the COM port that the
weather information comes into. Static can be heard until the antenna crosses or finds the weather
satellite and a high “ping” or “beep” can be heard. Also, be sure to select EXT input in step 1.5.4 below.
1.5 Turn TAC-92C Power ON
The following steps may be performed during or after Initialization. Initialization will take 2 minutes.
When initialization has completed the display will read the remote (PCU) Model and software version
information until a menu button is pressed.
1.5.1 Press RESET and record the TAC-92C software version number displayed. The
display should then change to read “REMOTE INITIALIZING”.
ü If the display is blank, refer to TAC-92C, Display Blank (below)
ü If the display reads “REMOTE NOT RESPONDING”, refer to ERR4.0
ü If the ERROR LED is ON, press mode until the error code display is selected. Refer to
ERR1.0 to troubleshoot the error(s).
ü If the UNWRAP LED is ON for more than 2 minutes, refer to UNWRAP1.0

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

1.5.2 Front Panel key checks


Sequentially press SHIP, SAT, ANTENNA and MODE to verify that each displays the appropriate
menu items. If the display does not change when the keys are pressed, refer to section 3 (below)
– TAC-92C, Display does not change.
1.5.3 Press the SHIP key and verify that Latitude, Longitude and Heading are correct. If
they are correct go to the next step. If Latitude, Longitude or Heading are incorrect
ü Press SHIP key again to select Latitude entry mode to update the present ship latitude.
Enter the correct numeric value using the Numeric Keypad; use the N/S/E/W key to
select the correct hemisphere and then press ENTER.
ü Press SHIP key again to select Longitude entry mode to update the present ship
longitude. Enter the correct numeric value using the Numeric Keypad; use the N/S/E/W
key to select the correct hemisphere and then press ENTER.
ü Press SHIP key again to select Heading mode. When the heading input is coming from a
Ships Gyrocompass, the initial heading MUST be entered for most gyro types (see
Heading Display Test section below). Enter the correct numeric heading value using the
Numeric Keypad and then press ENTER. The display may “flash” back to some other
number after pressing “ENTER”. This is because the antenna is initializing and cannot
accept the input until after initialization. The entry made is stored by the TAC-92C and
will update the PCU and should not need to be re-entered after initialization completes.
1.5.4 Press SAT and verify the Satellite Longitude and Receiver Selection & Tuning are
correct
ü Refer to the Quick Start operation card(s) for a list of commonly used satellite longitudes.
Press SAT again to select Satellite entry mode. Enter the correct numeric value using
the Numeric Keypad; use the N/S/E/W key to select the correct hemisphere and then
press ENTER.
ü Press SAT until the only the lower line is displayed. This display will show the AGC Input
source & Tuning frequency (i.e. INA 01100) in the lower left and the present AGC value
in the lower right. Use the N/S/E/W key to toggle through the input selections, use the
numeric keypad to enter the desired frequency and press ENTER. When WeSat
operation is being used, select EXT input (no tuning frequency). For TVRO operation,
use the INA xxxxx selection and enter the Ku-band downlink frequency, or the
appropriate Intermediate Frequency (IF), of the desired satellite transponder. This can
be obtained from Satellite listings in almanacs, magazines or on the Internet.
1.5.5 Verify that the TAC-92C parameters are set correctly
A list of the factory default parameters can be found in the appropriate Installation & Operation
manual for your model antenna. To access these parameters press the MODE key 5 times, the
display will read AZ xxxx EIRP xxxx. At this display, key in the number 7979 and press ENTER.
Press MODE to step down through the parameter displays listed below. To change a setting, key
in the correct number and press ENTER. After verifying all parameters, continue pressing MODE
until the display reads “SAVE NEW PARAMETERS”. Press the UP ARROW once, then press
ENTER to save any changes made in the previous steps. Incorrect parameter settings are a
frequent cause of not being able to target the desired satellite or not being able to track
the satellite properly

ü EL TRIM – Trims the Elevation display to optimize Targeting. Normally set to 0000 for all
models.
ü AZ TRIM – Trims the Azimuth display to optimize Targeting. When using the internal
fluxgate for heading input, this parameter is set to the value of magnetic variation of the
geographic location of the boat. When using an external fluxgate for heading input, this
parameter is set to the value of magnetic variation of the geographic location of the boat

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

+/- any mechanical error in the radome mounting. When the heading input source is from
a Gyrocompass (True heading) this parameter is mechanical mounting error only.
ü AGC THRES – Set to 0128
ü EL STEP SIZE – When operating in step track mode, set to 0002. When operating in
Conscan tracking mode, set to 0003.
ü AZ STEP SIZE - When operating in step track mode, set to 0002. When operating in
Conscan tracking mode, set to 0003.
ü STEP DELAY – Set to 0002
ü SEARCH INC – Set from 0018 to 0020
ü SEARCH LIMIT – Set to 0200
ü SEARCH DELAY – Set to 0015
ü STEP INTEGRAL – When operating in step track mode, set to 0030, 0040 or 0060.
When operating in Conscan tracking mode, this parameter MUST be set to 0000.
ü SYSTEM TYPE – Most commonly set to 72 or 76
ü GYRO TYPE – Set to 0000 when the antennas own internal fluxgate is being used for
heading reference. Set to 0000 when an external fluxgate compass is being used for
heading reference (002 may be used on TAC-92C ver 2.77 or later). On 3294, 4094 and
4894 systems the degree of accuracy needed is best met with the use of a ships gyro
input or an external fluxgate as its heading reference input. When using a Gyrocompass,
the gyro type is determined by the type of Gyrocompass output AND the type of synchro
converter (daughter board) installed on the TAC-92C Main PCB — should be set
according to the TAC-92C Heading Display Test information below. Also, when using a
synchro or step-by-step input source, the Heading of the boat must be entered into the
HDG display every time the antenna system power is cycled ON (including power
failures or switching ship/shore power).
ü **Note** The heading output from a GPS is not an acceptable heading input to the TAC-
92C. The “heading” output from these devices are actually Course Over Ground, which
does not guarantee an accurate heading reference.
ü POL TYPE – Set to 0001
ü POL 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - N/A for US DSS feeds. European linear polarization feeds should be
set to default values, especially for auto-polarization operation.
ü AZLIM1 - Used to set the relative position of the CCW side of a blockage zone, normally
set to 0000 when not being used.
ü AZLIM2 - Used to set the relative position of the CW side of a blockage zone, normally
set to 0000 when not being used.
1.6 When the antenna has completed initializing, the Tracking or Searching LED
should be lit.
1.6.1 If the antenna acquires the desired satellite:
Check all the receivers for adequate signal level on both the odd & the even transponders (may
be done using signal meter or by observing programming channels) then go on to functional
testing in step 2.0 below.
1.6.2 If the antenna is tracking on a satellite, but it is not on the DESIRED satellite:
This indicates that the system is able to acquire and track satellites. The most common causes
are that the desired satellite is blocked or targeting is not accurate. Check for blockage and
assure that the AZ TRIM value is set correctly.

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

Assure that the TV is set to the correct input selection (CH # or LINE) for the satellite receiver
output. Set the receiver to a promotional channel so programming can be seen when the
antenna is on the desired satellite. Also check the IF distribution to the receivers.
Some boats have multiple feeds & receivers (i.e. DSS & GLA) onboard. Assure that the correct
feed & receivers are installed for the satellite service coverage in your location.
Re-target or manually search for satellite. Once the desired satellite is found, evaluate AZ & EL
TRIM values to optimize the targeting of the antenna. If AZ TRIM needs to be greater than +/- 10
degrees check Heading Testing in section 2 below. Refer to FLUX1.0 & MECH1.0 for
troubleshooting the large value of AZ TRIM.
1.6.3 If the antenna does not acquire any satellite:
Assure that the TAC-92C receiver selection (INA, INB or IF) and tuning frequency is correct.
There should be some level of AGC even when pointed away from any satellites. If the AGC
level does NOT change when you unplug the coax from the rear panel of the TAC-92C, this
indicates that there is a loss of IF input (failed coax, matrix switch or LNB OR a loss of DC voltage
to the LNB) or a failure of the AGC tuner circuits. Refer to AGC Signal Level Tests, IF
Distribution Problems and TAC-92C AGC problems below.
If the AGC does change significantly (400+ AGC counts) when you unplug the coax, check for
blockage and refer to Functional Testing below to isolate the failure further.
1.7 Check for blockage:
Assure that there are no obstructions between the antenna and the satellite. The satellite signal is line of
sight and any object that is directly in the signal path will attenuate the signal. The satellites are in
Geostationary orbit over the equator, therefore they should be south of you if you’re in the northern
hemisphere or north of you if you’re in the southern hemisphere. You can visually sight past the radome
toward the approximate direction of the satellites to see if there may be some object in the satellite signal
path. The satellite signal will penetrate through most thin plastic and fiberglass with a small amount of
attenuation but will not penetrate through metals, buildings or other structures that are in between the
antenna and the desired satellite. If there IS blockage between the antenna and the desired satellite, the
antenna may not be able to acquire that satellite until the boat is moved or turned to a different heading
where no obstructions are in the signal path to the antenna. It may acquire, and track, an adjacent
satellite which is not blocked.
If there does not appear to be any blockage you may need to open the radome to assure that the antenna
is pointing in the right general direction of where the satellites are (north or south of you). If the antenna
does not target to the correct general pointing, it cannot possibly find a signal to track in its search area.
Refer to Functional Testing below to isolate further.

2 Functional Testing
2.1 TAC-92C Front Panel Test
Test the operation of the front panel buttons to assure that the appropriate menu items appear for each
key that was pressed. If the display does not change, refer to TAC-92C, Display does not change.
2.2 Azimuth Drive Test
Select Azimuth Entry mode and note the present AZ and AGC values. Press the UP or DOWN arrow key
repeatedly to step the antenna position. Verify that the antenna position and AGC change as you move
on to, or off of, a satellite signal. If you are not able to find a satellite signal to verify drive this way, you
will have to actually observe the antenna pedestal while someone else steps the antenna from the TAC-
92C. Refer to AZD1.0 to troubleshoot.
2.3 Elevation Drive Test
Select Elevation Entry mode and note the present EL and AGC values. Press the UP or DOWN arrow
key repeatedly to step the antenna position. Verify that the antenna position and AGC change as you

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

move on to, or off of, a satellite signal. If you are not able to find a satellite signal to verify drive this way,
you will have to actually observe the antenna pedestal while someone else steps the antenna from the
TAC-92C. Refer to ELD1.0 to troubleshoot.
2.4 Targeting Test
Targeting is the accurate azimuth and elevation positioning of the antenna in three dimensional space.
There are two ways you can target the antenna. They are Satellite Targeting and Azimuth and/or
Elevation Targeting.
Satellite Targeting is the process of targeting a desired Satellite Longitude (SAT). The TAC-92C then
calculates Azimuth and Elevation angles required to point the antenna at that satellite position from the
boats present LAT & LON. The Relative Azimuth (REL) angle is adjusted using the heading (HDG) and
the AZ TRIM values in the TAC-92C to convert it to TRUE Azimuth (relative to TRUE North) and to
compensate for mechanical radome installation error. [TRUE AZ = REL + HDG + AZ TRIM]. The
antenna is then driven to the calculated True Azimuth and Elevation angles.
Azimuth and/or Elevation Targeting is the process of targeting an accurate Relative Azimuth, True
Azimuth or Elevation angle of the antenna. Relative Azimuth is targeted from the azimuth entry window
by keying in the desired numerical value, pressing the N/S/E/W key and then pressing the ENTER key.
True Azimuth is targeted from the azimuth entry window by keying in the desired numerical value and
then pressing the ENTER key. Elevation is targeted from the elevation entry window by keying in the
desired numerical value and then pressing the ENTER key.
Normally, you target a satellite using either of the methods above, the antenna acquires the desired
satellite, begins tracking it and you are able to watch the desired programming. This seems very simple
… but is very complex and can be difficult to troubleshoot (you will have to investigate all of the functions
and tests that relate to any of the “indications” listed below). Repeatable, accurate targeting indicates the
following:
• The antenna initialized correctly to its starting REL and EL positions. There is no positive feedback of
actual antenna position. The displayed position values are the result of this starting position value +/-
(increment/decrement) all of the steps issued to the AZ/EL motors since initialization was completed.
This assumes that the initial pointing angles were achieved during initialization and that every step
issued since then was carried out.
• Azimuth drive is good. All of the steps issued to the AZ motor are being carried out. The antenna is
not binding or dragging in the radome (causing pulse slipping). The drive circuits, motor and belt
tension are good.
• Elevation drive is good. All of the steps issued to the EL motor are being carried out. The antenna is
not binding or dragging in the radome (causing pulse slipping). The drive circuits, motor and belt
tension are good.
• Heading input is stable and accurate.
• AZ & EL Trim values are correct.
• LAT & LON settings are correct.
• The LNB is the correct frequency band and polarization type.
• At least one LNB output is energized and the IF signal is being routed to the TAC-92C to develop the
AGC to enable the TAC-92C to come out of search and begin tracking the satellite signal.
• The satellite receiver has IF signal input from the correct satellite service and is processing audio &
video outputs that are the correct video standard for the television.
• The television is set to the correct input selection (channel number, Line or A/V) and is providing the
picture and sound correspondingly.
2.4.1 Test Targeting
1. While “on satellite”, turn Tracking OFF (press AUX1).

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

2. Select Azimuth entry and key in a value +/-100 degrees or more from the present
AZ position.
3. Select Elevation entry and key in a value of 000 or 090.
4. The search LED will flash, indicating that the antenna is targeting to the pointing
angles you specified. Allow 30-60 seconds for the antenna to drive away from
the satellite.
5. Press SAT twice, key in the desired satellite longitude and then press the ENTER
key to re-target the satellite.
6. Verify that the antenna again drives to, and acquires, the desired satellite.
7. If Targeting accuracy is satisfactory, skip to section 2.5 to continue functional
testing. If the targeting accuracy was not satisfactory, evaluate AZ & EL TRIM
values to improve targeting accuracy before proceeding.
2.4.2 Evaluate AZ & EL TRIM Values
1. While “on satellite”, turn Tracking OFF (press AUX1).
2. Select Azimuth entry and key in a value +/-100 degrees or more from the present
AZ position.
3. Select Elevation entry and key in a value of 000 or 090.
4. The search LED will flash, indicating that the antenna is targeting to the pointing
angles you specified. Allow 30-60 seconds for the antenna to drive away from
the satellite.
5. Press SAT twice, key in the desired satellite longitude and then press the ENTER
key to re-target the satellite. Press AUX1 to turn tracking OFF so the antenna
will not go into search. Press ANTENNA to view the antenna position.
6. When the antenna AZ & EL values stop changing, record the AZ & EL that the
antenna targeted to. Press AUX1 to turn tracking ON and allow the antenna to
time-out and begin searching OR manually adjust AZ & EL pointing to be ON
Satellite.
7. When the desired satellite is acquired, allow tracking to peak up the satellite
signal.
8. When peaked, record the “peak ON satellite” AZ & EL.
9. Evaluate the amount of EL TRIM change that would be required to cause the
“ON satellite” elevation to read the “Targeted” value recorded in step 6. [If
“Targeted” elevation was 31.0 and “ON satellite” is 32.0, you will need –1.0
degrees change to the present EL TRIM to make the “ON satellite” elevation
display a value of 31.0 - EL TRIM is entered in tenths … [in this case you would
subtract 10 from the present EL TRIM].
10. Evaluate the amount of AZ TRIM change that would be required to cause the
“ON satellite” elevation to read the “Targeted” value recorded in step 6. [If
“Targeted” azimuth was 180.5 and “ON satellite” is 178.0, you will need +2.5
degrees change to the present AZ TRIM to make the “ON satellite” azimuth
display a value of 180.5 - AZ TRIM is entered in tenths … [in this case you
would add 25 to the present AZ TRIM].
11. Save the parameter changes and repeat step 2.4 to retest targeting accuracy.

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

2.5 AGC Signal Level Tests


When the antenna is not pointed at a satellite
you should still have some level of AGC,
representing the level of background noise
from space. As you move the antenna closer
to a satellite signal you will note that the AGC
rise is directly proportional to the amount of
satellite signal level rise (as shown in this
plot). AGC levels are different for each model
antenna, weather conditions and satellite
signal level.
There should be a very pronounced change in
the AGC value when you switch the input
selection between EXT, INA, INB and IF (EXT
should be very low value) OR when you
disconnect the IF coax from the rear of the
TAC-92C while observing the normal
selection (i.e. INA). If the AGC does not
change, there is a loss of IF into the AGC
AGC Level vs. Antenna Position plot
tuner or the tuner has failed.
The AGC value should never be 0000 or 4095.
30-40 counts of AGC is approximately 1dB of satellite signal.
Auto-Threshold will normally set the Threshold at about 3dB above the background noise level.
Threshold is a value that the TAC-92C uses to indicate loss of satellite signal so it can initiate a search
pattern. When AGC falls below Threshold the TAC-92C will wait “search delay” number of seconds. If
the AGC does not come back above Threshold before the delay time the TAC-92C will initiate a search
pattern in an attempt to acquire/re-acquire a viable satellite signal.
AGC Test
1. Record the Peak AGC Level. Turn tracking OFF.
2. From peak, select Azimuth or Elevation Entry mode. Step the antenna UP or DOWN
while monitoring the AGC Level. The level should rapidly fall to the background noise
level as the antenna is mispointed.
3. Continue stepping the antenna until it is OFF satellite and record the background noise
AGC level.
4. Evaluate the difference in AGC level (AGC Delta).
5. Step the antenna back to Peak, and turn tracking back ON.
If the Peak AGC is too high you may note that the AGC value does not change as you step the antenna 1
degree or more. This could be due to excessive input level which is saturating the tuner. Step the
antenna OFF satellite and record position and AGC (about every 0.2 degrees) as you step the antenna
back through Peak to OFF satellite (opposite side). Plot the AGC vs. Position on graph paper. If the
tuner is being saturated, the resultant curve will be flattened on top rather than a smooth curve to a
narrow rounded peak. To correct this, add sufficient attenuation in-line into the tuner to prevent it from
being saturated.
AGC Delta is commonly 400-700+ on most model antennas while in adequate footprint signal areas. This
should provide good Tracking and good satellite receiver signal processing.
AGC Delta of less than 200 indicates poor satellite signal level (weak area of footprint). The satellite
receiver may loose some, or all, programming channels. Tracking will not hold peak signal level as
effectively (it will still track, but programming will be lost).

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

2.6 Tracking Test


A simple way to test tracking is to conduct a 4-Quadrant test.
1. Turn tracking OFF
2. Select Azimuth Entry mode
3. Step the antenna DOWN in AZ until the AGC falls about 100 counts. If the antenna has
Conscan you will see 6s flashing in the lower left of the display. Turn tracking ON and
verify that the antenna moves up in azimuth and re-peaks the AGC level.
4. Turn tracking OFF and step the antenna UP in AZ until the AGC falls about 100 counts.
If the antenna has Conscan you will see 4s flashing in the lower left of the display. Turn
tracking ON and verify that the antenna moves down in azimuth and re-peaks the AGC
level.
5. Select Elevation Entry mode, turn tracking OFF and step the antenna UP in EL until the
AGC falls about 100 counts. If the antenna has Conscan you will see 2s flashing in the
lower left of the display. Turn tracking ON and verify that the antenna moves down in
elevation and re-peaks the AGC level.
6. Turn tracking OFF and step the antenna DOWN in EL until the AGC falls about 100
counts. If the antenna has Conscan you will see 8s flashing in the lower left of the
display. Turn tracking ON and verify that the antenna moves up in elevation and re-
peaks the AGC level.
2.7 Heading Testing
Heading input is used for Targeting a satellite (the Heading input is added to the Relative position of the
antenna to equal the TRUE Azimuth position of the antenna) and as a long term input to the Azimuth
Stabilization loop.
The Gyro Type parameter must be set correctly for the type of heading input device.
The heading input must be stable (after power is turned ON, most Gyrocompasses will take 4 hours, or
more, to “settle” and provide a steady heading output). The antenna will not stay pointed ON satellite
if the Heading input is not stable.
The more accurate the heading input is, the more accurate targeting will be. Refer to the paragraph on
Targeting Test to check targeting accuracy.
2.7.1 Internal Fluxgate
When using the antenna’s internal fluxgate, the TAC-92C calculates the ship’s heading using
the fluxgate reference and the relative feedback. The heading value displayed should be within
+/- 10 degrees of the boat’s actual heading. If it is not, Fluxgate Compensation needs to be
performed (refer to COMP1.0) or there is external interference on the fluxgate (due to steel or
magnetic mass).
Gyro Type is set to 0000 (0002 can be used on TAC-92C software ver 2.77 or later).
AZ TRIM value is the Magnetic Variation for the geographic location of the boat).
Steel hull boats, or boats with large steel or magnetic masses will cause the internal fluxgate to
be inaccurate (the masses warp the earth’s magnetic field). In this situation, install an external
(calibratable) fluxgate, or Gyrocompass, to be used as the heading input for the system.
If the HDG and AZ displays are incorrect by more than +/- 10 degrees or the HDG is not stable
(drifts or wanders from the boats actual heading when dockside or on a steady course)
troubleshoot using COMP1.0, MINST1.0 & FLUX1.0.
2.7.2 External Fluxgate
When using an external fluxgate (i.e. Ritchie DL-200 or KVH Autocomp 1000) as the heading
input to the TAC-92C, it should be connected to J-13 (NMEA input) on the rear panel of the TAC-
92C. Because this input comes into the Aux. Serial Port (J-13) the sum that is entered as the
System Type Parameter value must include 8 (i.e. 8, 12 or 72).

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

Gyro Type parameter is 0000 (0002 should be used on TAC-92C software ver 2.77 or later).
NOTE: If the external fluxgate is not energized or the input fails, the TAC-92C may revert to
using the antenna’s internal fluxgate.
The device must be NMEA0183 compliant, be properly installed and calibrated (compensation).
Heading is displayed directly from the device output, you will not be able to enter a “heading”
value to correct the display (display will revert to the value read).
The heading value displayed should be within +/- 1.0 degrees of the boat’s actual heading. If it is
not, compensation needs to be performed or the device is not aligned to the bow of the boat
correctly (refer to the manual for the device).
AZ TRIM value is the sum of the Magnetic Variation for the geographic area +/- any radome
mounting error (accuracy of the alignment of the radome so that Relative 360.0 is parallel to the
bowline of the boat).
If the HDG is not stable (drifts or wanders +/- 1.0 degree from the boats actual heading when
dockside or on a steady course) troubleshoot using the manual for the external fluxgate device.
2.7.3 Gyrocompass - NMEA Heading Output:
When using an NMEA Heading Output from a Gyrocompass as the heading input to the TAC-
92C, it should be connected to J-13 (NMEA input) on the rear panel of the TAC-92C. Because
this input comes into the Aux. Serial Port (J-13) the sum that is entered as the System Type
Parameter value must include 8 (i.e. 8, 12 or 72).
Gyro Type parameter is 0000 (0002 can also be used on latest TAC-92C software). NOTE: If
the Gyro is not energized or the input fails, the TAC-92C may revert to using the antenna’s
internal fluxgate.
The device must be NMEA0183 compliant, be properly installed and calibrated.
Heading is displayed directly from the device output, you will not be able to enter a “heading”
value to correct the display (display will revert to the value read).
The heading value displayed should be within +/- 1.0 degrees of the boats actual heading. If it is
not, the device is not aligned to the bow of the boat correctly (refer to the manual for the device).
Gyrocompass output is TRUE (relative to True North), therefore the AZ TRIM value is ONLY the
radome mounting error (accuracy of the alignment of the radome so that Relative 360.0 is parallel
to the bow-line of the boat).
Azimuth display will be HDG + REL + AZ TRIM.
If the HDG is not stable (drifts or wanders +/- 1.0 degree from the boat’s actual heading when
dockside or on a steady course) troubleshoot using the manual for the Gyrocompass.
2.7.4 Gyrocompass – Step-By-Step (SBS) Heading Output
When using SBS Heading Output from a Gyrocompass as the heading input to the TAC-92C, it
must be connected to TB3 on the Terminal Mounting Strip (Com, A, B & C connections) which
plugs into J-3 on the rear panel of the TAC-92C.
Gyro Type parameter is 0002.
This output is comprised of 6 discrete DC voltage state changes (steps) on the three phase lines
per degree of heading change. You MUST enter the heading of the boat EVERY time the TAC-
92C power is turned ON to provide an initial heading. Heading is incremented, or decremented,
as steps are received from the Gyrocompass.
The heading value displayed should be within +/- 1.0 degrees of the boat’s actual heading. If the
heading is incorrect, attempt to enter in the correct heading and then monitor the heading. If the
display is still not correct, then there is a problem with the gyro input. This may also cause the
error light to come on.

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

Gyrocompass output is TRUE (relative to True North), therefore the AZ TRIM value is ONLY the
radome mounting error (accuracy of the alignment of the radome so that Relative 360.0 is parallel
to the bowline of the boat).
Azimuth display will be HDG + REL + AZ TRIM.
If the HDG is not stable (drifts or wanders +/- 1.0 degree from the boat’s actual heading when
dockside or on a steady course) troubleshoot using the manual for the Gyrocompass.
If you are getting Error Code 0001 or 0002 refer to ERR1.0. Also refer to Ships Gyro Input Fault
Isolation below.
2.7.5 Gyrocompass – Synchro Heading Output
CAUTION: Electrical Shock Hazard - Synchro Ships Gyrocompass outputs are commonly
110VAC 60 or 400 Cycle. This AC voltage is still present at the Terminal Mounting Strip and
inside the TAC-92C when the TAC-92C power is turned OFF.
When using Synchro Heading Output from a Gyrocompass as the heading input to the TAC-92C,
it must be connected to TB1 on the Terminal Mounting Strip (R1, R2, S1, S2 & S3 connections)
which plugs into J-3 on the rear panel of the TAC-92C.
Gyro Type parameter is set to the correct value for the ratio of the Synchro information AND for
the Synchro Converter (daughter board) installed on the Main PCB inside your TAC-92C. The
ratio is the number of AC sinewave transitions on the output phases (S1, S2 & S3) per full 360
degree turn of the boat.
1:1 Synchro is Gyro Type 0001
36:1 Synchro is Gyro Type 0036
90:1 Synchro is Gyro Type 0090
360:1 Synchro is Gyro Type 0360 or 0362 (dependent on Synchro Converter)
You MUST enter the heading of the boat EVERY time the TAC-92C power is turned ON to
provide an initial heading if you are using 36:1, 90:1 or 360:1. Heading is incremented, or
decremented, as sinewave transitions are received from the Gyrocompass.
The heading value displayed should be within +/- 1.0 degree of the boat’s actual heading. If the
heading is incorrect, attempt to enter in the correct heading and then monitor the heading. If the
display is still not correct, then there is a problem with the gyro input. This may also cause the
error light to come on.
Gyrocompass output is TRUE (relative to True North), therefore the AZ TRIM value is ONLY the
radome mounting error (accuracy of the alignment of the radome so that Relative 360.0 is parallel
to the bowline of the boat).
Azimuth display will be HDG + REL + AZ TRIM.
If the HDG is not stable (drifts or wanders +/- 1.0 degree from the boats actual heading when
dockside or on a steady course) troubleshoot using the manual for the Gyrocompass.
If you are getting Error Code 0001 or 0002 refer to ERR1.0. Also refer to Ship’s Gyro Input Fault
Isolation below.
2.8 Underway Testing
Check Heading to assure that the displayed value agrees with the actual heading of the boat. If you are
connected to a Gyrocompass and the display does not follow the Gyrocompass reading correctly refer to
Ship’s Gyro Input Fault Isolation section below.
Monitor the signal level while the system is tracking the satellite and the boat is underway. Excessive
signal level variations that occur in sync with the motion of the boat may indicate that stabilization is not
operating correctly.

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

2.9 Initialization Test


If you have isolated problems to the antenna (Targeting, Stabilization or Tracking) this is the best test to
start troubleshooting the antenna with. In many cases it is very difficult to open the radome and view the
pedestal … but it is by far the best test to start with.
Remove the radome top. Cycle the TAC-92C power off. With power off, rotate the Level Platform fully
CW against the stop, tilt the antenna about 10 degrees off level and rotate the antenna to point straight up
at zenith.
Refer to MECH1.0, VIS1.0 and INIT1.0. Have someone turn TAC-92C power ON while observing the
antenna as it begins its initialization, which continues for approximately 2 minutes.
2.10 Rate Sensor / Stabilization Test
If all the functions during initialization are correct, then turn tracking or searching off after the antenna
targets, to test the rate sensors. All three rate sensors require 12 volt DC input and will output 2.5 volts
+/- 100 MV with no motion across the rate sensor axis. When motion is applied, the rate sensor has a
voltage range of 0 to 5 VDC (+/- 2.5) depending on the direction of the motion. Perform the following
checks to isolate any problems.
1. Turn tracking and/or searching off to stop the antenna from moving.
2. Slightly loosen the three Philips screws securing the Elevation rate sensor mounting
plate. “Wiggle” the rate sensor and observe the elevation motor react by moving the
antenna in the opposite direction of the applied motion. Tighten screws when finished. If
the antenna does not react in elevation, follow ELR1.0.
3. Slightly loosen the three screws securing the Cross Level rate sensor. “Wiggle” the rate
sensor and observe the cross level motor react by moving the cross level beam in the
opposite direction of the applied motion. Tighten screws when finished. If the antenna
does not react in cross-level, follow CLR1.0.
4. Slowly move the Azimuth rate sensor back and forth and observe the azimuth motor
move the antenna pedestal in the opposite direction of the applied motion. If the antenna
does not react in azimuth, follow AZR1.0.
2.11 Fluxgate Compensation Test
The fluxgate is located in the level platform assembly on the antenna. The demodulation circuit for the
fluxgate is in the PCU (Pedestal Control Unit). Sea Tel compensates the fluxgate on all antennas and
PCUs before shipment. However, once installed on the boat, compensation should be performed to
calibrate the fluxgate to the new location. Also, if the PCU or fluxgate is ever replaced, a compensation
should be done to match the new hardware. Use the following procedures at the TAC-92C to
compensate the fluxgate. Use the troubleshooting modules to isolate any failures.
1. Press [MODE] until the display reads “REMOTE COMP”. Press the [↑] key and then
press [ENTER] to start fluxgate compensation. The display should now read “PLEASE
WAIT”. The antenna will rotate from the CW stop, nearly 540 degrees, close to the CCW
stop. This procedure will take approximately 2 minutes. When the test is complete, the
display will read either “COMP COMPLETE”, “COMP RANGE ERROR” or “COMP GAIN
ERROR”.
2. COMP COMPLETE: This indicates a successful compensation.
§ Press [MODE] until the display reads “REMOTE PARAMETERS”
§ Press the [↑] key and then press [ENTER]. This will save the new compensation
parameters to NVRAM in the PCU.
3. COMP RANGE ERROR: This indicates a problem at the antenna or external magnetic
interference.
ANTENNA: 3 possible problems with the antenna.
§ A bad fluxgate compass. Use FLUX1.0 to isolate.

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

§ Faulty wiring from the fluxgate to the PCU (Pedestal Control Unit). Use FLUX1.0 to
isolate.
§ If the tests above check out satisfactory, then replace the PCU and follow the
Remote Compensation Procedure to calibrate the new PCU.
EXTERNAL MAGNETIC INTERFERENCE:
§ Check for equipment within 4-5 feet of the antenna, which may contain magnets, or
large amounts of steel.
§ If the boat is steel or there are magnetic objects that cannot be relocated, then the
solution is to interface the system with a Ship’s Gyrocompass (S-B-S or Synchro) or
an EXTERNAL Fluxgate compass (Ritchie DH-200 or KVH Autocomp 1000).
4. COMP GAIN ERROR: This error will occur if there is not enough signal for the fluxgate.
If there is too much signal a “COMP RANGE ERROR” will probably occur first. If the
system has worked well until the boat traveled to a northern latitude, the problem is most
likely not enough signal for the fluxgate to accurately process. To rule out a faulty
fluxgate, follow FLUX1.0. Other causes could be from external magnetic interference
(i.e., steel, and magnets).

3 Symptom / Problem Scenarios

3.1 Antenna Drifts Off Satellite


Improper tracking, parameter settings, rate sensor disturbance or problems with the
fluxgate/Gyrocompass can cause drifting off the satellite after lock.
Verify that the tracking parameters (EL STEP SIZE, AZ STEP SIZE and STEP INTEGRAL) are set
correctly.
If the system is using the internal fluxgate compass, use the Fluxgate Compensation procedure to isolate
the problem (COMP1.0 & FLUX1.0).
If the system is interfaced with the ship’s gyro, check the heading display on the TAC-92C and verify this
matches the ship’s heading on the Gyrocompass.
Use the Heading Input tests and fault isolation sections to isolate the problem.
If the Heading Input is found to be good, refer to INIT1.0 to check Initialization of the antenna, then
AZR1.0, CLR1.0 and ELR1.0 to troubleshoot the rate sensors.
3.2 Channels Freeze Frame
Many times this will only occur on certain channels. This could be due to heavy rainfall or the ship
operating on the edge of the satellite footprint.
Also, a common problem is the F connectors are not securely fastened. Tighten all of these connectors
and re-check the system operation.
If all channels are freeze framing, check to see if the TAC-92C is maintaining steady tracking of the
satellite (Tracking LED steadily lit).
If some channels are good, the tracking light is on and the antenna is pointed at the correct azimuth and
elevation angle, then troubleshoot only the RF distribution to the receivers or the receivers themselves. In
both cases the TAC-92C should be configured to output 10-21 VDC to the LNB. Verify the configuration
by checking that the SYSTEM TYPE is set to 0072 or 0076.
Check the AGC on the TAC-92C, referring to AGC Signal Level Tests.
If the AGC is good, use the IF Distribution Test.
Voltage output is low, zero or too high (greater than 22VDC) replaced the AGC RECEIVER PCB P/N
113037.

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Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

If voltage is good at the TAC-92C output, then check the voltage at the LNB. This voltage should be
approximately 18 volts at the input of the LNB on the antenna.
If voltage output is low or not there at all, do a continuity check of all coax cables leading from the TAC-
92C to the LNB.
If the voltage is good, but AGC shows below 800, then swap the two cables at the LNB outputs. Check
the AGC again. If AGC is still below 800, replaced the LNB.
Also refer to SIG1.0 to troubleshoot.
3.3 Constant Unwrap LED
An unwrap occurs when the PCU reads the antenna pedestal is close to one of the two azimuth
mechanical stops. The mechanical stops should be at a Relative position of 0090 and 0630, allowing the
antenna 540 degrees of rotation. When the antenna is in the center of this mechanical range of rotation,
the REL position of the antenna is 360.0 and the system should be facing in line with the bow. When the
relative position of the antenna is within 5 degrees of one of the stops an unwrap will be electronically
initiated (at 095.0 REL or 620.0 REL) and the antenna will be driven 360 degrees (plus or minus heading
changes during the unwrap) away from that mechanical stop. The PCU will send an unwrap indicator
back to the TAC-92C, which will turn on the red unwrap LED. Usually, an unwrap is completed in
approximately 20-30 seconds.
This is a normal operation of the antenna and satellite programming will be lost until the antenna
completes unwrapping. The antenna should reacquire the satellite without intervention from the operator.
On systems with an encoder, the PCU monitors the encoder output to decide when an unwrap should
occur. If the encoder output fails, the system may stay in unwrap. For ENCODER equipped systems
refer to ENC1.0 & UNWRAP1.0 to troubleshoot.
On systems without an encoder, an unwrap failure can happen if the pedestal movement is restricted at
any time (i.e., antenna scraping inside of dome or cables inside radome catching on pedestal). In
“encoder-less” systems, refer to UNWRAP1.0 to troubleshoot.
3.4 Heading Input Fault Isolation
If the heading input source is inaccurate or unstable that antenna may not be able to target or stay on
satellite. The heading display should follow the heading source exactly, if the display is not updating, not
staying accurate or is changing opposite to what the input source is doing use the procedures below to
isolate the problem.
If you are getting Error Code 0001 or 0002 also refer to ERR1.0.
3.4.1 Internal Fluxgate Fault Isolation
If the system is using its own internal fluxgate compass, the difference could be as much as 5-10
degrees. As long as the system locates the satellite within a reasonable time (2-3 minutes after
initialization), then this is not a problem. If then TAC-92C heading is off by more than 15-20
degrees and takes longer than 10 minutes to find the satellite or does not find it, then try to
compensate the fluxgate compass. Refer to Fluxgate Compensation Test above to compensate
the fluxgate and use FLUX1.0 to troubleshoot.
3.4.2 Ships Gyrocompass Fault Isolation - General
All gyro types except 1:1 & NMEA require the operator (user) to input the ship heading in the
TAC-92C HDG display each time the system is turned ON. The gyro input can be checked
underway or by manually slewing the gyro in port.
CAUTION: Electrical Shock Hazard - Synchro Ships Gyrocompass outputs are commonly
110VAC 60 or 400 Cycle. This AC voltage is still present at the Terminal Mounting Strip and
inside the TAC-92C when the TAC-92C power is turned OFF.
Check the GYRO TYPE parameter to assure that the correct value is entered to correctly read
the output from the Gyrocompass. The available gyro types are:
§ 0000 for NMEA O183 Heading Output, wired to the Aux. Serial Port Adapter (J13)

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Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

§ 0001 for 1:1 input (usually installed on older military)


§ 0002 for S-B-S (Step-By-Step) installed on some yachts and commercial vessels
§ 0036 for 36:1 (usually on military boats)
§ 0090 for 90:1 (rare)
§ 0360 for 360:1 (on yachts and some commercial)
§ 0362 for 360:1 (on yachts and some commercial)
3.4.3 SBS Gyrocompass Output [DC Voltage Signaling]
You MUST enter the heading of the boat EVERY time the TAC-92C power is turned ON to
provide an initial heading. Heading is incremented, or decremented, step transitions are received
from the Gyrocompass.
If there is no error light but the heading on the TAC-92C moves the wrong direction, then swap
the A and B leads.
If the Error LED (error code reads 0001) and the error will not clear, check the gyro-input voltages
at TB6 on the terminal mounting strip. Measure the voltage from COM to A, B & C respectively.
One or two legs should be high (+ or – voltage level) and one or two will be low (below 10 VDC).
All three legs should never be High or Low at any instant in time (violation of Gyro truth table,
which causes Error 0001). If not, check the ship’s gyro output.
Voltage on high leg should be approximately (+35, -35, +70, -70), depending on the voltage level
of the gyro being used.
Voltage on low leg must be below 10 volts. AC or noise spikes on the line is the most common
cause of Error code 0001 (two lines are high and the low line has noise which is interpreted by
the TAC-92C as a high state … therefore, all three lines appear to be high which is an illegal
state).
Measure from chassis ground to COM and the voltage should be a constant (0 volts, +/-35 or +/-
70), without varying more than a few volts up and down. If it does vary with ship’s movement (i.e.
low to high to low), then this is probably not the COM leg. Re-wire as necessary. Verify that the
COM has not been wired to the lamp output of the gyro. This would probably give a reading of
~15-20 VDC.
Refer to ERR2.0 for more information and troubleshooting.
3.4.4 Synchro Gyrocompass Output [AC Voltage Signaling] (36:1, 90:1 or 360:1)
You MUST enter the heading of the boat EVERY time the TAC-92C power is turned ON to
provide an initial heading if you are using 36:1, 90:1 or 360:1. Heading is incremented, or
decremented, as sinewave transitions are received from the Gyrocompass.
After initialization of the system and setting the ship’s heading into the TAC-92C HDG display,
verify the heading on the TAC-92C follows the gyro. If the gyro turns in the wrong direction, swap
the S2 and S3 leads at TB7.
3.4.5 Synchro Gyrocompass Output [AC Voltage Signaling] (1:1 ONLY)
You CANNOT enter the heading of the boat when you are using 1:1 Synchro input. The heading
is directly read by the TAC-92C based on the relationship of S1, S2 and S3 sinewaves.
Gyro Type parameter setting is 0001. After initialization, the HDG display should read the same
as the ship’s gyro.
• If the Heading display reads 180 degrees opposite the ship’s gyro, then swap the R1 &
R2 inputs to TB7 of the Terminal Mounting Strip. Press [RESET] to verify change in HDG
display.
• If the Heading display reads 60 or 300 degrees from ship’s gyro, swap the R1 & R2 leads
and then rotate the S1, S2 & S3 leads either forward or backward one position. Press
[RESET] to verify changes.

- 3-14 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide Troubleshooting Procedures

• If the Heading display reads 120 or 240 degrees from ship’s gyro, rotate the S1, S2 & S3
connections either forward or backward one position and press [RESET].
3.5 IF Distribution Problem
Set each satellite receiver to the signal meter. Set one of the receivers to an odd transponder (i.e. 3,5,7)
and another receiver to an even transponder (i.e. 2,4,6). This will isolate whether the channel freeze is
on one polarity or both. Also, check the interconnection of the system. Check to see if there is a multi-
switch and check if one coax is looped through the TAC-92C or directly connected to RF IN A on the rear
panel. With multiple receivers, both coax cables from the radome should connect directly to the multi-
switch. Be sure the connections are correct before troubleshooting any further; refer to the appropriate
System Interconnect, Wiring or Block Diagrams for your system.
IF SIGNAL LEVEL LOW OR ZERO ON ONE POLARITY (i.e. odd or even transponder)
Set all receivers to the polarity (even or odd transponder) that shows a problem. Do all receivers show
the same problem?
YES
§ Swap the cables on the input to the multi-switch. This will change the cable and LNB
output that is feeding each polarity.
§ If the problem stays on the same polarity, then change the multi-switch.
§ If the problem moves to the other polarity, then check the coax cable feeding that polarity.
The multi-switch is marked at the inputs 13/14 VDC and 17/18 VDC. The low voltage feeds
the odd transponders and the high voltage (17/18) feeds the even transponders. If the
cable checks out okay, then replace the LNB.
NO
§ The coax leading from the multi-switch to the receiver may be bad. Check continuity.
§ If the cable is okay, check the output of the TAC-92C at RF IN A. Output should be
approximately 20 volts.
§ If the voltage is okay, the multi-switch may be bad. Swap the multi-switch output cable with
another one that is good. If the problem moves to the other receiver, replace the multi-
switch. If the problem stays with the same receiver, then re-check the cable. If the cable is
good, replace the receiver.
IF SIGNAL LEVEL IS LOW OR ZERO ON BOTH EVEN AND ODD TRANSPONDERS
The problem may be weather related. KU-band is very susceptible to rain and/or moisture attenuation.
Check the area of operation. Boat may be at the edge of the footprint for the system.
Check all F connectors and verify all IF connections are secure.
Also refer to SIG1.0 for troubleshooting IF Signal problems.
3.6 Remote Not Responding
This problem occurs if there is a loss of communication between the PCU and the TAC-92C. The
communication is RS-422 carried on four (4) conductors in the control cable. Refer to ERR4.0 and the
following to isolate the problem.
3.7 TAC-92C Display Blank
If the display does not illuminate when the TAC-92C power switch is turned ON, check the following items
to help isolate the problem:
Check to assure that the correct level of AC Voltage is available at the outlet and at the TAC-92C end of
the power cord. Extract the Voltage Select/Fuse Holder Module from below the plug receptacle and test
both fuses. Plug the module back in (correct voltage selection) to the TAC-92C power module, plug the
power cord in also. If power or fuse fault was found, turn power ON, check the display and continue
operation.
To isolate shorted input connections:
- 3-15 -
Troubleshooting Procedures Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide

Turn power OFF, disconnect J1, turn power ON and check the display. If the display is lit, refer to
ACC1.0 and SPOOL1.0.
Turn power OFF, disconnect J3, turn power ON and check the display. If the display is lit, troubleshoot
Gyrocompass connections for shorts.
Turn power OFF, disconnect J11, turn power ON and check the display. If the display is lit, troubleshoot
the Aux. Serial Port input connections for shorts.
Turn power OFF, disconnect J13, turn power ON and check the display. If the display is lit, troubleshoot
Aux. Serial Port input connections for shorts.
If the display is still not lit, open the TAC-92C and test the AC Voltage at the terminal barrier strip for the
transformer input. Refer to TAC1.0 to troubleshoot further.

- 3-16 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ACC
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ACC1.0 Antenna Control Cable
Refer to drawing 114787 Shielded Control
Cable Assembly ACU to PCU
ACC1.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Visually inspect
antenna control cable connections.
At the Antenna Control Unit, disconnect P1 Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
and visually inspect connector. Are any pins pins as needed and re-check.
bent, broken or pushed into the body of the No
connector?
At the antenna, disconnect the 9-pin circular Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
plug and visually inspect. Are any pins bent, pins as needed and re-check.
broken or pushed into the body of the No
connector?
ACC1.2 Continuity checks
Install DE-9 loop-back continuity test
connector (shorts 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 and 9-
shield) on P1 at the ACU end of the antenna
control cable.
Check continuity of the Antenna Control Cable Yes
at the Antenna 9-pin Circular connector Plug: No Repair harness and re-check
Circ-1 to Circ-2 = Short
Circ-3 to Circ-4 = Short
Circ-5 to Circ-6 = Short
Circ-7 to Circ-8 = Short
Circ-9 to Circ-spade = Short
Is continuity good?
Remove the DE-9 loop-back continuity test
connector from P1.
Check P1 continuity from metal body (shield) Yes Repair and re-check
to pins: No
P1-1 to Shield = Open
P1-2 to Shield = Open
P1-3 to Shield = Open
P1-4 to Shield = Open
P1-5 to Shield = Open
P1-6 to Shield = Open
P1-7 to Shield = Open
P1-8 to Shield = Open
P1-9 to Shield = Open
Is harness shorted?

- 4-1 -
ACC Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check P1 continuity from pin to pin: Yes Repair and re-check


P1-1 to P1-2 = Open No
P1-1 to P1-3 = Open
P1-1 to P1-4 = Open
P1-1 to P1-5 = Open
P1-1 to P1-6 = Open
P1-1 to P1-7 = Open
P1-1 to P1-8 = Open
P1-1 to P1-9 = Open
P1-2 to P1-3 = Open
P1-2 to P1-4 = Open
P1-2 to P1-5 = Open
P1-2 to P1-6 = Open
P1-2 to P1-7 = Open
P1-2 to P1-8 = Open
P1-2 to P1-9 = Open
P1-3 to P1-4 = Open
P1-3 to P1-5 = Open
P1-3 to P1-6 = Open
P1-3 to P1-7 = Open
P1-3 to P1-8 = Open
P1-3 to P1-9 = Open
P1-4 to P1-5 = Open
P1-4 to P1-6 = Open
P1-4 to P1-7 = Open
P1-4 to P1-8 = Open
P1-4 to P1-9 = Open
P1-5 to P1-6 = Open
P1-5 to P1-7 = Open
P1-5 to P1-8 = Open
P1-5 to P1-9 = Open
P1-6 to P1-7 = Open
P1-6 to P1-8 = Open
P1-6 to P1-9 = Open
P1-7 to P1-8 = Open
P1-7 to P1-9 = Open
P1-8 to P1-9 = Open
Are harness lines shorted?
Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes Return
previous three steps? No

- 4-2 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ACC
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ACC1.3 DC Voltage checks
ACC1.3.1 Re-connect antenna control cable and turn
TAC-92C power ON. Check the DC Voltage
from C48 to ground on the TAC-92C Main
PCB. Record the DC voltage.
ACC1.3.2 Check the DC Voltage at the Pol Aux Relay
PCB from P1-3 (+28VDC) to P1-6 (ground).
Record the DC voltage
Subtract the voltage recorded in step Yes Return
ACC1.3.2 from the voltage recorded in step No
ACC1.3.1. Is the loss across the antenna
control cable less than 3.0VDC?
Is the antenna control cable 100 ft or less in Yes Repair or replace the antenna
length? control cable and re-test
ACC1.3
No Contact Sea Tel Service
department for instructions on
installing junction boxes and
heavier gage antenna control
cable conductors. Correct
then re-test ACC1.3

- 4-3 -
AZD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
AZD1.0 Azimuth Drive problems
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic and
the Pedestal Harness Schematic drawings for
all voltage and continuity checks.
AZD1.1 Test Azimuth drive to determine the nature of Yes Return
the drive problem. Turn the TAC-92C power Yes, Azimuth AZD1.2
ON, turn tracking OFF (press AUX1) and drives but not
observe azimuth drive while the antenna is consistently
initializing, or while stepping, slewing or
targeting azimuth. Does the antenna drive No, Azimuth AZD1.6
properly in azimuth? drives the
wrong
direction.
No Azimuth AZD1.2
drive.
AZD1.2 No Azimuth drive or drive is not consistent
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Inspect inside of radome for signs that the Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
dish or feed have been rubbing against the department
inside of the fiberglass radome. Are there No
signs of rubbing?
Rotate the pedestal through 540 degree range Yes
of azimuth motion. The antenna should rotate No Contact Sea Tel Service
freely and easily with light finger pressure. Do department
the azimuth bearings rotate freely with no
binding in Azimuth?
Assure that the cables in the base of the Yes Re-route or tie cables away
radome are not restricting or binding the free from pedestal and re-check.
rotation of the pedestal. Is there cable No
restriction noted?
Check the azimuth drive belt. Is the belt Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
broken or loose? and re-check.
No
Is the 44 pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes
the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are the harness and motor IDC connections Yes
(J4 & J5) mated properly on the terminal No Re-mate connection and re-
board (TB1)? check
Are any wires in the IDC connectors (J4 & J5) Yes Repair and re-check.
broken or frayed? No

- 4-4 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide AZD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Turn TAC-92C power ON


AZD1.3 +12VDC test
Check the DC Voltage on J4 and J5, from pin Yes > 11VDC
3 to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0
No, voltage is AZD1.7
VDC OK?
low (< 11VDC)
or missing
No, voltage is Repair/replace TB1 and re-
good on J4 check
but missing on
J5
AZD1.4 Motor (M1) Continuity
Disconnect P5 and check continuity of the Yes
motor windings, measure from: No Motor Open - Replace motor
P5-1 to P5-3 or 4 ~25Ù and re-check
P5-2 to P5-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P5-5 to P5-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P5-6 to P5-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P5-1 to P5-2 ~50Ù
P5-5 to P5-6 ~50Ù
Is motor winding continuity good?
Check continuity of the motor windings to Yes Motor shorted - Replace
ground: motor and re-check
P5-1 to ground = Open No AZD1.5
P5-2 to ground = Open
P5-3 to ground = Open
P5-4 to ground = Open
P5-4 to ground = Open
P5-6 to ground = Open
Is the motor shorted?
Reconnect P5 and re-test azimuth drive. Is Yes Return
azimuth drive restored? No AZD1.5
AZD1.5 Harness Continuity
AZD1.5.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF.
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
Disconnect P4 and check continuity from: Yes
P4-1 to P1-28 = Short No Repair harness and re-check
P4-2 to P1-26 = Short
P4-4 to P1-44 = Short
P4-5 to P1-8 = Short
P4-6 to P1-5 = Short
Is continuity good?

- 4-5 -
AZD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check continuity from: Yes Repair harness and re-check


P4-1 to ground = Open No
P4-2 to ground = Open
P4-4 to ground = Open
P4-5 to ground = Open
P4-6 to ground = Open
P4-1 to P4-2 = Open
P4-1 to P4-4 = Open
P4-1 to P4-5 = Open
P4-1 to P4-6 = Open
P4-2 to P4-4 = Open
P4-2 to P4-5 = Open
P4-2 to P4-6 = Open
P4-4 to P4-5 = Open
P4-4 to P4-6 = Open
P4-5 to P4-6 = Open
Is harness shorted?
AZD1.5.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes AZD1.1
previous three steps?
No
Replace PCU (failed drivers), re-connect all Yes Return
cables and turn TAC-92C power ON. Is
No Contact Sea Tel Service
Azimuth drive restored?
department
AZD1.6 Azimuth drives wrong direction
Verify motor wire color code to P5 per Yes
Pedestal Harness Schematic. Is the P5 wired No Replace motor and re-check
correctly?
Verify correct software in PCU. Is the Yes
software correct for the antenna model? No Replace PCU software with
correct version and re-check
Plug spare motor (unmounted) into TB1. Yes AZD1.5
Does spare motor turn same direction as the No Replace motor and re-test
installed motor? AZD1.1
AZD1.7 +12VDC is low (< 11VDC) or missing
AZD1.7.1 Is the +12.0 VDC approximately half the Yes
nominal voltage? No AZD1.7.3
Check the Voltage Select/Fuse block in the Yes
power module on the rear panel of TAC-92C. No Set for correct AC voltage
Is it set for the correct AC line voltage? then next
AZD1.7.2 Re-check DC voltage from J4 and J5 pin 3 to Yes > 11VDC Re-test AZD1.1
ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC
OK now? No
AZD1.7.3 Disconnect P5 from TB1 and check +12VDC Yes Motor short – Replace motor
from P4 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC then AZD1.7.2
OK? No

- 4-6 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide AZD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P4 from TB1 and check +12VDC Yes TB1 short - Repair/replace
from P4 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC TB1, then AZD1.7.2
OK? No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes Harness open/short –
DC voltage From J1 pins 40, 41, 42, 43 and AZD1.5.1 then next
44 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC OK? No AZD1.7.4
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect P1, Yes AZD1.7.2
P4 and P5. Turn TAC-92C power ON and re- No Pedestal Harness short –
check DC voltage from J4 and J5 pin 3 to Isolate shorted wire(s) or
ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC component(s), repair and re-
OK? check
AZD1.7.4 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and
the PCU. Turn TAC-92C power ON.
Check DC voltage from P2-15 to ground Yes +12VDC regulator failure -
under load. This may also be done by Replace PCU then AZD1.8
opening the back-shell of P2 to access pin 15 No
OR by opening the PCU and access on U14
pin 5. Is the voltage +24VDC or greater?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pol/Feed short – isolate,
unplug P1 from the Pol Aux Relay PCB. Is repair and re-check
the voltage +24VDC or greater when P1 is No
unplugged?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pedestal short – isolate,
unplug P1 from PCU. Is the voltage +24VDC repair, and re-check
or greater when PCU P1 is unplugged? No
Unplug P2, remove the 15-Pin In-Line Test- Yes PCU short – replace PCU,
Point connector from PCU and check the then AZD1.8
voltage from P2-15 to ground. Is the voltage No
+26VDC or greater?
AZD1.7.5 Unplug the 9-pin Circular plug from the Yes Spool cable – SPOOL1.0
bracket (jack) in the base-pan of the radome. then AZD1.8
Check the DC voltage at the plug from pin 9 to No
pin 5. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater?
AZD1.7.6 Unplug P1 from the rear panel of the ACU and Yes ACC1.0 then AZD1.8
check the DC voltage from J1-9 to J1-5. Is the No
voltage +26VDC or greater?
Remove top cover of the TAC-92C and test Yes Loss of +28VDC path –
DC voltage from Main PCB connector J5-3 to Replace Main PCB then
ground. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater? AZD1.8
No
AZD1.7.7 Turn the TAC-92C Power OFF, unplug the AC Yes
line cord from the rear panel and extract the No Replace fuse(s) then next
voltage select block. Test both fuses (250V
2Amp Slow-Blow). Are BOTH fuses good?

- 4-7 -
AZD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Re-insert the voltage select block (assure it is Yes AZD1.8


in the correct orientation for the AC line
voltage) and re-install the AC line cord. Turn No TAC1.0 then AZD1.8
TAC-92C power ON and test DC voltage from
Main PCB connector J5-3 to ground. Is the
voltage +28VDC restored (> +26VDC)?
AZD1.8 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect all Yes > 11VDC Re-test AZD1.1
unplugged connections. Reinstall ACU & No Contact Sea Tel Service
PCU covers as necessary. Turn TAC-92C Department
power ON and re-check DC voltage from J4
and J5 pin 3 to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is
the +12.0 VDC OK now?

- 4-8 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide AZR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
AZR1.0 Azimuth Rate Sensor
AZR1.1 Test for rate sensor read errors which may
cause any of the following symptoms;
1. Antenna drives to the stops when initializing
or targeting a new azimuth.
2. Antenna does not stabilize in azimuth axis
properly.
3. The Unwrap LED may be frequently or
constantly lit.
4. Antenna may oscillate in azimuth from one
end stop to the other end stop.
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic
drawings for all voltage and continuity
checks..

Fig 1 Azimuth rate sensor and connection.


AZR1.2 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
AZR1.2.1 Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
AZR1.2.2 Measure continuity from the metal body of the Yes
rate sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is No AZR1.3
the rate sensor isolated from ground?
AZR1.2.3 Refer to figure 1. If the rate sensor is installed Yes
upside-down (connector down) the antenna No Re-install in correct
may oscillate from one azimuth stop to the orientation
other. Is the rate sensor mounted in the
correct orientation?
AZR1.2.4 Remove the conductive tape from the rate
sensor. Save tape to reinstall later.
Refer to figure 1. Is the IDC connection (P18) Yes
mated properly in the rate sensor.? No Re-mate connection and re-
check

Are any wires in the IDC connector (P18) Yes Repair and re-check.
broken or frayed? No

- 4-9 -
AZR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
AZR1.2.5 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to the Yes Tighten the two Philips
level cage. Grip the body of the rate sensor screws to secure the
with thumb and fore-finger of one hand while mounting plate to the level
holding the level cage firmly in the other hand. cage and re-check.
Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the No
mounting plate loose on the level cage?
AZR1.2.6 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to its’ Yes
mounting plate. Grip the body of the rate No AZR1.5
sensor with thumb and fore-finger of one hand
while holding the level cage firmly in the other
hand. Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the
rate sensor loose on the mounting plate?
Remove the two Phillips screws that attach Yes Replace the rate sensor
the mounting plate to the level cage, tighten mounting plate and re-check.
the rate sensor mounting screws and re- No Re-install the mounting plate
check. Is the rate sensor still loose on the (and rate sensor) on the level
mounting plate? cage and re-check AZR1.2.5
AZR1.3 Rate sensor isolation
Remove the conductive tape and check Yes
continuity from the metal body of the rate No Tape was shorting – re-check
sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is the AZR1.2.2
rate sensor still shorted to pedestal ground?
Remove the two Philips screws to detach the Yes AZR1.4.1, then re-check
mounting plate (and rate sensor) from the AZR1.2.2
level cage. Is the rate sensor still shorted to No Screws were shorting - Next
pedestal ground?

Tighten the rate sensor mounting screws and Yes Replace the rate sensor
re-check. Is the rate sensor still loose on the mounting plate and re-check.
mounting plate? No Re-check AZR1.2.2
AZR1.4 Harness continuity
AZR1.4.1 Disconnect P1 & P18 and check continuity Yes
from: No Repair harness and re-check
P18-1 to P1-34 = Short
P18-4 to P1-18 = Short
P18-5 to P1-40 = Short
Is continuity good?
Check continuity from: Yes Repair harness and re-check
P18-1 to ground = Open No
P18-4 to ground = Open
P18-5 to ground = Open
P18-1 to P18-4 = Open
P18-1 to P18-5 = Open
P18-4 to P18-5 = Open
Is harness shorted?
AZR1.4.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes AZR1.1
previous three steps? No

- 4-10 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide AZR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
AZR1.5 Nominal output voltage
Reconnect P1 and P18. Turn TAC-92C
power ON
Assure that the boat is not moving at the pier
and disconnect P5 (azimuth motor) from TB1.
The pedestal is not to be rotated while
monitoring the rate sensor output voltage (rate
sensor not being rotated in free space).
Monitor the rate sensor output DC voltage Yes
from P18 pin 4 to ground. Nominal when the No AZR1.7
rate sensor is not being rotated is 2.50VDC
+/-100mV. Is the voltage OK?
AZR1.6 Output voltage varies with motion
Rotate the antenna in azimuth while Yes AZR1.8
continuing to monitor the output voltage. CW No Replace rate sensor and re-
rotation should cause the output to increase check AZR1.5
above 2.50VDC and CCW rotation causes the
voltage to decrease below 2.50VDC. The
amount of increase/decrease from nominal is
proportional to the rate of rotation. Does the
output vary as the antenna is rotated?
AZR1.7 Measure the DC voltage from P18 pin 5 to Yes Replace rate sensor and re-
ground (metal body). Is the 12 VDC OK? check AZR1.5
No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes AZR1.4.1, then re-check
DC voltage from J1 pin 40 to ground. Is the AZR1.5
+12VDC OK? No Replace PCU and re-check
AZR1.5
AZR1.8 Re-connect P5 (azimuth motor) to TB1 and Yes AZR1.9
turn TAC-92C ON. Loosen the two Philips No AZR1.4.1, then next
screws securing the rate sensor mounting
plate, grip the rate sensor with your finger and
thumb and gently “wiggle” (rotate left-right) the
rate sensor. Does azimuth drive the pedestal
in response to rotation of the rate sensor?
Were repairs made during the harness Yes Re-check AZR1.5
continuity checks? No Replace PCU and re-check
AZR1.8
AZR1.9 Turn TAC-92C OFF. Tighten the two Philips Yes
screws to secure the rate sensor mounting No Re-tape and re-check
plate to the pedestal. Re-install the
conductive tape over the rate sensor IDC
connection. Assure that the tape does not
short any of the wires in the IDC connector
and does not short the body of the rate sensor
to the pedestal ground or the harness
shield/braid. Re check AZR1.3. Is the rate
sensor isolated from ground?
Reconnect P1 to the PCU and turn TAC-92C Return
power ON

- 4-11 -
CLD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
CLD1.0 Cross Level Drive problems
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic
drawings for all voltage and continuity checks.
CLD1.1 Test Cross Level drive to determine the Yes Return
nature of the drive problem. Tilt the cross Yes, Cross CLD1.2
level beam about 10 degrees off level, then Level drives
turn the TAC-92C power ON and observe but not
Cross Level drive while the antenna is consistently
initializing. Does the antenna drive properly in
Cross Level? No, Cross CLD1.6
Level drives
the wrong
direction.
No Cross CLD1.2
Level drive.
CLD1.2 No Cross Level drive or drive is not
consistent
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Inspect inside of radome for signs that the Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
dish or feed have been rubbing against the department
inside of the fiberglass radome. Are there No
signs of rubbing?
Rotate the pedestal through ~60 degree Yes
range of Cross-Level motion (tilt). The No Contact Sea Tel Service
antenna should rotate freely and easily with department
light finger pressure. Do the Cross-Level
bearings rotate freely with no binding in
Cross-Level?
Assure that the cables on the pedestal are not Yes Re-route or tie cables on the
restricting or binding the free rotation of the pedestal and re-test.
pedestal. Is there cable restriction noted? No
Check the Cross Level drive belt. Is the belt Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
broken or loose? and re-test.
No
Is the 44-pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes
the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
test
Are the harness and motor IDC connections Yes
(J7 & J8) mated properly on the terminal No Re-mate connection and re-
board (TB2)? test
Are the wires in the IDC connectors (J7 & J8) Yes Repair and re-test.
broken or frayed? No

- 4-12 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide CLD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Turn TAC-92C power ON


CLD1.3 +12VDC test
Check the DC Voltage on J7 and J8, from pin Yes > 11VDC
3 to ground and pin 4 to ground.
No, voltage is CLD1.7
+12.0 VDC OK? low (< 11VDC)
No, voltage is Repair/replace TB2 and re-
good on J7 check
but missing on
J8
CLD1.4 Motor (M2) Continuity
Disconnect P8 and check continuity of the Yes
motor windings, measure from: No Motor open - Replace motor
P8-1 to P8-3 or 4 ~25Ù and re-check
P8-2 to P8-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P8-5 to P8-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P8-6 to P8-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P8-1 to P8-2 ~50Ù
P8-5 to P8-6 ~50Ù
Is motor winding continuity good?
Check continuity of the motor windings to Yes Motor shorted - Replace
ground: motor and re-check
P8-1 to ground = Open No CLD1.5
P8-2 to ground = Open
P8-3 to ground = Open
P8-4 to ground = Open
P8-4 to ground = Open
P8-6 to ground = Open
Is the motor shorted?
Reconnect P8 and re-test Cross Level drive. Yes Return
Is Cross Level drive restored? No CLD1.5
CLD1.5 Harness Continuity
CLD1.5.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF.
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
Disconnect P7 and check continuity from: Yes
P7-1 to P1-12 = Short No Repair harness and re-check
P7-2 to P1-10 = Short
P7-4 to P1-43 = Short
P7-5 to P1-23 = Short
P7-6 to P1-20 = Short
Is continuity good?

- 4-13 -
CLD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check continuity from: Yes Repair and re-check


P7-1 to ground = Open No
P7-2 to ground = Open
P7-4 to ground = Open
P7-5 to ground = Open
P7-6 to ground = Open
P7-1 to P7-2 = Open
P7-1 to P7-4 = Open
P7-1 to P7-5 = Open
P7-1 to P7-6 = Open
P7-2 to P7-4 = Open
P7-2 to P7-5 = Open
P7-2 to P7-6 = Open
P7-4 to P7-5 = Open
P7-4 to P7-6 = Open
P7-5 to P7-6 = Open
Is harness shorted?
CLD1.5.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes CLD1.1
previous three steps?
No
Replace PCU (failed drivers), re-connect all Yes Return
cables and turn TAC-92C power ON. Is
No Contact Sea Tel Service
Cross Level drive restored?
department
CLD1.6 Cross Level drives wrong direction
Verify motor wire color code to P8 per Yes
Pedestal Harness Schematic. Is the P8 wired No Replace motor and re-check
correctly?
Verify correct software in PCU. Is the Yes
software correct for the antenna model? No Replace PCU software with
correct version and re-check
Plug spare motor (unmounted) into TB2. Yes CLD1.5
Does spare motor turn same direction as the No Replace motor and re-test
installed motor? CLD1.1
CLD1.7 +12VDC is low (< 11VDC) or missing
CLD1.7.1 Is the +12.0 VDC approximately half the Yes
nominal voltage? No CLD1.7.3
Check the Voltage Select/Fuse block in the Yes
power module on the rear panel of TAC-92C. No Set for correct AC voltage
Is it set for the correct AC line voltage? then next
CLD1.7.2 Re-check DC voltage from J7 and J8 pin 3 to Yes > 11VDC Re-test CLD1.1
ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC
OK now? No
CLD1.7.3 Disconnect P8 from TB2 and check +12VDC Yes Motor short – Replace motor
from P4 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC then CLD1.7.2
OK? No

- 4-14 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide CLD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P7 from TB2 and check +12VDC Yes TB2 short - Repair/replace
from P4 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC TB2, then CLD1.7.2
OK? No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes Harness open/short –
DC voltage From J1 pins 40, 41, 42, 43 and CLD1.5.1 then next
44 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC OK? No CLD1.7.4
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect P1, Yes CLD1.7.2
P7 and P8. Turn TAC-92C power ON and re- No Pedestal Harness short –
check DC voltage from J7 and J8 pin 3 to Isolate shorted wire(s) or
ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC component(s), repair and re-
OK? check
CLD1.7.4 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and
the PCU. Turn TAC-92C power ON.
Check DC voltage from P2-15 to ground Yes +12VDC regulator failure -
under load. This may also be done by Replace PCU then CLD1.8
opening the backshell of P2 to access pin 15 No
OR by opening the PCU and access on U14
pin 5. Is the voltage +24VDC or greater?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pol/Feed short – isolate,
unplug P1 from the Pol Aux Relay PCB. Is repair and re-check
the voltage +24VDC or greater when P1 is No
unplugged?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pedestal short – isolate,
unplug P1 from PCU. Is the voltage +24VDC repair, and re-check
or greater when PCU P1 is unplugged? No
Unplug P2, remove the 15-Pin In-Line Test- Yes PCU short – replace PCU,
Point connector from PCU and check the then CLD1.8
voltage from P2-15 to ground. Is the voltage No
+26VDC or greater?
CLD1.7.5 Unplug the 9-pin Circular plug from the Yes Spool cable – SPOOL1.0
bracket (jack) in the base-pan of the radome. then CLD1.8
Check the DC voltage at the plug from pin 9 to No
pin 5. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater?
CLD1.7.6 Unplug P1 from the rear panel of the ACU and Yes ACC1.0 then CLD1.8
check the DC voltage from J1-9 to J1-5. Is the No
voltage +26VDC or greater?
Remove top cover of the TAC-92C and test Yes Loss of +28VDC path –
DC voltage from Main PCB connector J5-3 to Replace Main PCB then
ground. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater? CLD1.8
No
CLD1.7.7 Turn the TAC-92C Power OFF, unplug the AC Yes
line cord from the rear panel and extract the No Replace fuse(s) then next
voltage select block. Test both fuses (250V
2Amp Slow-Blow). Are BOTH fuses good?

- 4-15 -
CLD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Re-insert the voltage select block (assure it is Yes CLD1.8


in the correct orientation for the AC line
No TAC1.0 then CLD1.8
voltage) and re-install the AC line cord. Turn
TAC-92C power ON and test DC voltage from
Main PCB connector J5-3 to ground. Is the
voltage +28VDC restored (> +26VDC)?
CLD1.8 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect all Yes > 11VDC Re-test CLD1.1
unplugged connections. Reinstall ACU &
No Contact Sea Tel Service
PCU covers as necessary. Turn TAC-92C
department
power ON and re-check DC voltage from J7
and J8 pin 3 to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is
the +12.0 VDC OK now?

- 4-16 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide CLR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
CLR1.0 Cross Level Rate Sensor
CLR1.1 Test for rate sensor read errors which may
cause any of the following symptoms;
1. Antenna drives to either stop when
initializing.
2. Antenna does not stabilize in Cross Level
axis properly.
3. Antenna may oscillate in Cross-Level from
one end stop to the other end stop.
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic
drawings for all voltage and continuity checks.

Fig 1 Cross-Level rate sensor and


connection.

Fig 2 Tilt sensor PCB and connections


CLR1.2 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
CLR1.2.1 Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
CLR1.2.2 Measure continuity from the metal body of the Yes
rate sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is No CLR1.3
the rate sensor isolated from ground?
CLR1.2.3 Refer to figure 1. If the rate sensor is installed Yes Re-install in correct
backwards (connector forward) the antenna orientation
may oscillate from one Cross Level stop to the No
other. Is the rate sensor mounted in the
correct orientation?
CLR1.2.4 Remove the conductive tape from the rate
sensor. Save tape to reinstall later.

- 4-17 -
CLR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Refer to figure 1. Is the IDC connection (P6) Yes


mated properly in the rate sensor? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are any wires in the IDC connector (P6) Yes Repair and re-check.
broken or frayed? No
CLR1.2.5 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to the Yes Tighten the three Philips
pedestal. Grip the body of the rate sensor screws to secure the
with thumb and forefinger of one hand while mounting plate to the
holding the level cage firmly in the other hand. pedestal and re-check.
Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the No
mounting plate loose on the pedestal?
CLR1.2.6 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to its’ Yes
mounting plate. Grip the body of the rate No CLR1.5
sensor with thumb and forefinger of one hand
while holding the pedestal firmly in the other
hand. Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the
rate sensor loose on the mounting plate?
Remove the three Phillips screws that attach Yes Replace the rate sensor
the mounting plate to the pedestal, tighten the mounting plate and re-check.
rate sensor mounting screws and re-check. Is No Re-install the mounting plate
the rate sensor still loose on the mounting (and rate sensor) on the
plate? pedestal and re-check
CLR1.2.5
CLR1.2.7 Refer to figure 2. Inspect the tilt sensor PCB Yes Remove the PCB, trim leads
to assure that the leads on the under-side of or replace spacers and re-
the PCB are not shorted to the level cage install. The tilt sensor may be
enclosure (there should be three plastic damaged TILT1.0
spacers between the PCB and the aluminum). No
Are any leads shorted?
Refer to figure 2. Inspect the two 5-pin IDC Yes
connectors (P16 has three wires and P15 has
No Re-mate connection and re-
five wires as shown in figure 2). Assure they
check
are plugged in correctly (correct orientation
with no gap between them and no exposed
pins on the header). Are the connectors
plugged in correctly?
Are any wires in the IDC connectors (P15 & Yes Repair and re-check
P16) broken or frayed?
No
CLR1.3 Rate sensor isolation
Remove the conductive tape and check Yes
continuity from the metal body of the rate No Tape was shorting – re-check
sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is the CLR1.2.2
rate sensor still shorted to pedestal ground?
Remove the three Philips screws to detach Yes CLR1.4.1, then re-check
the mounting plate (and rate sensor) from the CLR1.2.2
pedestal. Is the rate sensor still shorted to No Screws were shorting - Next
pedestal ground?
Tighten the rate sensor mounting screws and Yes Replace the rate sensor
re-check. Is the rate sensor still loose on the mounting plate and re-check.
mounting plate? No Re-check CLR1.2.2

- 4-18 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide CLR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
CLR1.4 Harness continuity
CLR1.4.1 Disconnect P1 & P6 and check continuity Yes
from: No Repair harness and re-check
P6-1 to P1-5 = Short
P6-4 to P1-8 = Short
P6-5 to P1-44 = Short (through TB1)
Is continuity good?
Check continuity from: Yes Repair harness and re-check
P6-1 to ground = Open No
P6-4 to ground = Open
P6-5 to ground = Open
P6-1 to P6-4 = Open
P6-1 to P6-5 = Open
P6-4 to P6-5 = Open
Is harness shorted?
CLR1.4.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes CLR1.1
previous three steps? No
CLR1.5 Nominal output voltage
Reconnect P1 and P6. Turn TAC-92C power
ON
Assure that the boat is not moving at the pier.
The pedestal is not to be rotated (tilted left-
right) while monitoring the rate sensor output
voltage (rate sensor not being rotated in free
space).
Monitor the rate sensor output DC voltage Yes
from P6 pin 4 to ground. Nominal when the No CLR1.7
rate sensor is not being rotated is 2.50VDC
+/-100MV. Is the voltage OK?
CLR1.6 Output voltage varies with motion
Loosen the three Philips screws securing the Yes CLR1.8
rate sensor mounting plate, grip the rate No Replace rate sensor and re-
sensor with your finger and thumb and gently check
“wiggle” (rotate up/down) the rate sensor
while continuing to monitor the output voltage.
CW (DOWN) rotation should cause the output
to increase above 2.50VDC and CCW (UP)
rotation causes the voltage to decrease below
2.50 VDC. The amount of increase, or
decrease, from nominal is proportional to the
rate of rotation. Does the output vary as the
rate sensor is rotated?

CLR1.7 Measure the DC voltage from P6 pin 5 to Yes Replace rate sensor and re-
ground (metal body). Is the 12 VDC OK? check CLR1.5
No

- 4-19 -
CLR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes CLR1.4.1, then re-check
DC voltage from J1 pin 44 to ground. Is the CLR1.5
+12VDC OK? No Replace PCU and re-check
CLR1.5
CLR1.8 Re-connect P1 and turn TAC-92C ON. Grip Yes CLR1.9
the rate sensor with your finger and thumb No CLR1.4.1, then next
and gently rotate (up/down) the rate sensor.
Does Cross-Level drive the pedestal in
response to rotation of the rate sensor?
Were repairs made during the harness Yes Re-check CLR1.5
continuity checks? No Replace PCU and re-check
CLR1.8
CLR1.9 Turn TAC-92C OFF. Tighten the three Philips Yes
screws to secure the rate sensor mounting No Re-tape and re-check
plate to the pedestal. Re-install the
conductive tape over the rate sensor IDC
connection. Assure that the tape does not
short any of the wires in the IDC connector
and does not short the body of the rate sensor
to the pedestal ground or the harness
shield/braid. Re check CLR1.3. Is the rate
sensor isolated from ground?
Reconnect P1 to the PCU and turn TAC-92C Return
power ON

- 4-20 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide COMP
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
COMP1.0 Remote Compensation Failure
Access “Remote Comp” selection of the
remote parameters of the TAC-92C.
Press UP arrow key, then the ENTER key.
Display will read “Please Wait”
Compensation will take about two minutes.
During this time the antenna will measure the
magnetic deviation while slowly rotating in
azimuth. When finished the results will be
displayed.
COMP1.1 Does the display read “Comp Complete”? Yes
No COMP1.2
Press MODE twice to display “Remote Return
Parameters”. Press the UP arrow key then
press the ENTER key to save the
compensation values to NVRAM in the PCU.
COMP1.2 Does the display read “Comp Range Error“? Yes FLUX1.0, if FLUX has been
followed and the error
persists then COMP1.2.1
No COMP1.3
COMP1.2.1 This error may be due to excessive magnetic Yes COMP1.4
disturbances. Is the antenna within 6 feet of No
large metal masses or magnetic fields from
speakers or large Radar motors?
Is the boat steel hull/super-structure? Yes COMP1.5
No Contact Sea Tel Service
department
COMP1.3 Does the display read “Comp Gain Error”? Yes
No COMP1.0
There may not be sufficient magnetic field Yes COMP1.5
intensity for the Fluxgate to read (common in No COMP1.1
Northern latitudes). Use FLUX to rule out
equipment failure and re-compensate. Does
the error persist?
COMP1.4 Can the antenna be re-located farther away Yes Relocate then COMP1.0
from the magnetic disturbances? No COMP1.5
COMP1.5 Interface TAC-92C to a Ships Gyrocompass Return
(SBS or Synchro) or an External Fluxgate
(Ritchie DH-200 or KVH Autocomp 1000)

- 4-21 -
ELD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ELD1.0 Elevation Drive problems
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic and
the Pedestal Harness Schematic drawings for
all voltage and continuity checks.
ELD1.1 Does the level cage drive properly? Yes
No LEV1.0
ELD1.2 Test Elevation drive to determine the nature of Yes Return
the drive problem. Turn the TAC-92C power Yes, Elevation ELD1.3
ON, turn tracking OFF (press AUX1). drives but not
Observe level cage & elevation drive while the consistently
antenna is initializing, or while stepping,
slewing or targeting azimuth. Does the No, Elevation ELD1.7
antenna drive properly in elevation? drives the
wrong
direction.
No Elevation ELD1.3
drive.
ELD1.3 No Elevation drive or drive is not
consistent
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Inspect inside of radome for signs that the Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
dish or feed have been rubbing against the department
inside of the fiberglass radome. Are there No
signs of rubbing?
Rotate the pedestal through 90-degree range Yes
of Elevation motion. The antenna should No Contact Sea Tel Service
rotate freely and easily with light finger department
pressure. Do the Elevation bearings rotate
freely with no binding in Elevation?
Assure that the cables on the pedestal are not Yes Re-route or tie cables on the
restricting or binding the free rotation of the pedestal and re-check.
pedestal. Is there cable restriction noted? No
Check the Elevation drive belt. Is the belt Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
broken or loose? and re-check.
No
Is the 44-pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes
the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
check.
Are the harness and motor IDC connections Yes
(J10 & J11) mated properly on the terminal No Re-mate connection and re-
board (TB3)? check.
Are the wires in the IDC connectors (J10 & Yes Repair and re-check.
J11) broken or frayed? No

- 4-22 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ELD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Turn TAC-92C power ON


ELD1.4 +12VDC test
Check the DC Voltage on J10 and J11, from Yes > 11VDC
pin 3 to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the
No, voltage is ELD1.8
+12.0 VDC OK?
low (< 11VDC)
or missing
No, voltage is Repair/replace TB3 and re-
good on J10 check
but missing on
J11
ELD1.5 Motor (M3) Continuity
Disconnect P11 and check continuity of the Yes
motor windings, measure from: No Motor open - Replace motor
P11-1 to P11-3 or 4 ~25Ù and re-check.
P11-2 to P11-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P11-5 to P11-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P11-6 to P11-3 or 4 ~25Ù
P11-1 to P11-2 ~50Ù
P11-5 to P11-6 ~50Ù
Is motor winding continuity good?
Check continuity of the motor windings to Yes Motor shorted - Replace
ground: motor and re-check
P11-1 to ground = Open No ELD1.6
P11-2 to ground = Open
P11-3 to ground = Open
P11-4 to ground = Open
P11-4 to ground = Open
P11-6 to ground = Open
Is the motor shorted?
Reconnect P11 and re-test elevation drive. Is Yes Return
Elevation drive restored? No ELD1.6
ELD1.6 Harness Continuity
ELD1.6.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF.
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
Disconnect P10 and check continuity from: Yes
P10-1 to P1-27 = Short No Repair harness and re-check.
P10-2 to P1-25 = Short
P10-4 to P1-42 = Short
P10-5 to P1-7 = Short
P10-6 to P1-4 = Short
Is continuity good?

- 4-23 -
ELD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check continuity from: Yes Repair and re-check


P10-1 to ground = Open No
P10-2 to ground = Open
P10-4 to ground = Open
P10-5 to ground = Open
P10-6 to ground = Open
P10-1 to P10-2 = Open
P10-1 to P10-4 = Open
P10-1 to P10-5 = Open
P10-1 to P10-6 = Open
P10-2 to P10-4 = Open
P10-2 to P10-5 = Open
P10-2 to P10-6 = Open
P10-4 to P10-5 = Open
P10-4 to P10-6 = Open
P10-5 to P10-6 = Open
Is harness shorted?
ELD1.6.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes ELD1.1
previous three steps?
No
Replace PCU (failed drivers), re-connect all Yes Return
cables and turn TAC-92C power ON. Is
No Contact Sea Tel Service
Azimuth drive restored?
department Sea Tel Service
department
ELD1.7 Elevation drives wrong direction
Verify motor wire color code to P11. Is the Yes
P11 wired correctly? No Replace motor and re-check.
Verify correct software in PCU. Is the Yes
software correct for the antenna model? No Replace PCU software with
correct version and re-test
Plug spare motor (unmounted) into TB3. Yes ELD1.6
Does spare motor turn same direction as the No Replace motor and re-test
installed motor? ELD1.2
ELD1.8 +12VDC is low (~ 6-10VDC) or missing
ELD1.8.1 Is the +12.0 VDC approximately half the Yes
nominal voltage? No ELD1.8.3
Check the Voltage Select/Fuse block in the Yes
power module on the rear panel of TAC-92C. No Set for correct AC voltage
Is it set for the correct AC line voltage? then next
ELD1.8.2 Re-check DC voltage from J10 and J11 pin 3 Yes > 11VDC Re-test ELD1.8
to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0
No
VDC OK now?
ELD1.8.3 Disconnect P11 from TB3 and check +12VDC Yes Motor short – Replace motor
from P10 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC then ELD1.8.2
OK? No

- 4-24 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ELD
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P10 from TB3 and check +12VDC Yes TB3 short - Repair/replace
from P10 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC TB3, then ELD1.8.2
OK? No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes Harness open/short –
DC voltage From J1 pins 40, 41, 42, 43 and ELD1.5.1 then next
44 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC OK? No ELD1.8.4
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect P1, Yes ELD1.8.2
P10 and P11. Turn TAC-92C power ON and No Pedestal Harness short –
re-check DC voltage from J10 and J11 pin 3 Isolate shorted wire(s) or
to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 component(s), repair and re-
VDC OK? check
ELD1.8.4 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and
the PCU. Turn TAC-92C power ON.
Check DC voltage from P2-15 to ground Yes +12VDC regulator failure -
under load. This may also be done by Replace PCU then ELD1.9
opening the backshell of P2 to access pin 15 No
OR by opening the PCU and access on U14
pin 5. Is the voltage +24VDC or greater?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pol/Feed short – isolate,
unplug P1 from the Pol Aux Relay PCB. Is repair and re-check
the voltage +24VDC or greater when P1 is No
unplugged?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pedestal short – isolate,
unplug P1 from PCU. Is the voltage +24VDC repair, and re-check
or greater when PCU P1 is unplugged? No
Unplug P2, remove the 15-Pin In-Line Test- Yes PCU short – replace PCU,
Point connector from PCU and check the then ELD1.9
voltage from P2-15 to ground. Is the voltage No
+26VDC or greater?
ELD1.8.5 Unplug the 9-pin Circular plug from the Yes Spool cable – SPOOL1.0
bracket (jack) in the base-pan of the radome. then ELD1.9
Check the DC voltage at the plug from pin 9 to No
pin 5. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater?
ELD1.8.6 Unplug P1 from the rear panel of the ACU and Yes ACC1.0 then ELD1.9
check the DC voltage from J1-9 to J1-5. Is the No
voltage +26VDC or greater?
Remove top cover of the TAC-92C and test Yes Loss of +28VDC path –
DC voltage from Main PCB connector J5-3 to Replace Main PCB then
ground. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater? ELD1.9
No
ELD1.8.7 Turn the TAC-92C Power OFF, unplug the AC Yes
line cord from the rear panel and extract the No Replace fuse(s) then next
voltage select block. Test both fuses (250V
2Amp Slow-Blow). Are BOTH fuses good?

- 4-25 -
ELD Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Re-insert the voltage select block (assure it is Yes ELD1.9


in the correct orientation for the AC line
No TAC1.0 then ELD1.9
voltage) and re-install the AC line cord. Turn
TAC-92C power ON and test DC voltage from
Main PCB connector J5-3 to ground. Is the
voltage +28VDC restored (> +26VDC)?
ELD1.9 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect all Yes > 11VDC Re-test ELD1.2
unplugged connections. Reinstall ACU &
No Contact Sea Tel Service
PCU covers as necessary. Turn TAC-92C
department
power ON and re-check DC voltage from J10
and J11 pin 3 to ground and pin 4 to ground.
Is the +12.0 VDC OK now?

- 4-26 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ELR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ELR1.0 Elevation Rate Sensor
ELR1.1 Test for rate sensor read errors which may
cause any of the following symptoms;
1. Antenna drives to either stop after a brief
stop at the correct Elevation when initializing.
2. Antenna does not stabilize in Level
(Elevation) axis properly.
3. Antenna may oscillate in Elevation from the
upper end stop to the lower end stop.
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic
drawings for all voltage and continuity checks.

Fig 1 Elevation rate sensor and connection.

Fig 2 Tilt sensor PCB and connections


ELR1.2 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
ELR1.2.1 Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
ELR1.2.2 Measure continuity from the metal body of the Yes
rate sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is No ELR1.3
the rate sensor isolated from ground?

- 4-27 -
ELR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ELR1.2.3 Refer to figure 1. If the rate sensor is installed Yes Re-install in correct
backwards (connector toward the right end of orientation
the level beam), the antenna may oscillate No
from one Elevation stop to the other. On the
2494 (only) pedestal the rate sensor is
mounted on the Cross-Level driven sprocket,
all other models are as shown below. Is the
rate sensor mounted in the correct
orientation?
ELR1.2.4 Remove the conductive tape from the rate
sensor. Save tape to reinstall later.
Refer to figure 1. Is the IDC connection (P9) Yes
mated properly in the rate sensor? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are any wires in the IDC connector (P9) Yes Repair and re-check.
broken or frayed? No
ELR1.2.5 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to the Yes Tighten the three Philips
level beam. Grip the body of the rate sensor screws to secure the
with thumb and forefinger of one hand while mounting plate to the level
holding the level beam firmly in the other beam and re-check.
hand. Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the No
mounting plate loose on the level beam?
ELR1.2.6 The rate sensor must be firmly mounted to its’ Yes
mounting plate. Grip the body of the rate No ELR1.5
sensor with thumb and forefinger of one hand
while holding the level beam firmly in the other
hand. Gently wiggle the rate sensor. Is the
rate sensor loose on the mounting plate?
Remove the three Phillips screws that attach Yes Replace the rate sensor
the mounting plate to the level beam tighten mounting plate and re-check.
the rate sensor mounting screws and re- No Re-install the mounting plate
check. Is the rate sensor still loose on the (and rate sensor) on the level
mounting plate? beam and re-check ELR1.2.5
ELR1.2.7 Refer to figure 2. Inspect the tilt sensor PCB Yes Remove the PCB, trim leads
to assure that the leads on the under-side of or replace spacers and re-
the PCB are not shorted to the level cage install. The tilt sensor may be
enclosure (there should be two plastic damaged TILT1.0
spacers between the PCB and the aluminum). No
Are any leads shorted?
Refer to figure 2. Inspect the two 5-pin IDC Yes
connectors (P16 has three wires and P15 has
No Re-mate connection and re-
five wires as shown in figure 2). Assure they
check
are plugged in correctly (correct orientation
with no gap between them and no exposed
pins on the header). Are the connectors
plugged in correctly?
Are any wires in the IDC connectors (P15 & Yes Repair and re-check
P16) broken or frayed? No

- 4-28 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ELR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ELR1.3 Rate sensor isolation
Remove the conductive tape and check Yes
continuity from the metal body of the rate No Tape was shorting – re-check
sensor to pedestal ground (=Open). Is the ELR1.2.2
rate sensor still shorted to pedestal ground?
Remove the three Philips screws to detach Yes ELR1.4.1, then re-check
the mounting plate (and rate sensor) from the ELR1.2.2
level beam. Is the rate sensor still shorted to No Screws were shorting - Next
pedestal ground?
Tighten the rate sensor mounting screws and Yes Replace the rate sensor
re-check. Is the rate sensor still loose on the mounting plate and re-check.
mounting plate? No Re-check ELR1.2.2
ELR1.4 Harness continuity
ELR1.4.1 Disconnect P1 & P9 and check continuity Yes
from: No Repair harness and re-check
P9-1 to P1-35 = Short
P9-4 to P1-3 = Short
P9-5 to P1-43 = Short (through TB2)
Is continuity good?
Check continuity from: Yes Repair harness and re-check
P9-1 to ground = Open No
P9-4 to ground = Open
P9-5 to ground = Open
P9-1 to P9-4 = Open
P9-1 to P9-5 = Open
P9-4 to P9-5 = Open
Is harness shorted?
ELR1.4.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes ELR1.1
previous three steps? No
ELR1.5 Nominal output voltage
Reconnect P1 and P9. Turn TAC-92C power
ON
Assure that the boat is not moving at the pier.
The pedestal is not to be rotated (tilted left-
right) while monitoring the rate sensor output
voltage (rate sensor not being rotated in free
space).
Monitor the rate sensor output DC voltage Yes
from P9 pin 4 to ground. Nominal when the No ELR1.7
rate sensor is not being rotated is 2.50VDC
+/-100MV. Is the voltage OK?

- 4-29 -
ELR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ELR1.6 Output voltage varies with motion
Loosen the three Philips screws securing the Yes ELR1.8
rate sensor mounting plate, grip the rate No Replace rate sensor and re-
sensor with your finger and thumb and gently check
“wiggle” (rotate fore/aft) the rate sensor while
continuing to monitor the output voltage. CW
(Backward) rotation should cause the output
to increase above 2.50VDC and CCW
(Forward) rotation causes the voltage to
decrease below 2.50 VDC. The amount of
increase, or decrease, from nominal is
proportional to the rate of rotation. Does the
output vary as the rate sensor is rotated?
ELR1.7 Measure the DC voltage from P9 pin 5 to Yes Replace rate sensor and re-
ground (metal body). Is the 12 VDC OK? check ELR1.5
No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes ELR1.4.1, then re-check
DC voltage from J1 pin 44 to ground. Is the ELR1.5
+12VDC OK? No Replace PCU and re-check
ELR1.5
ELR1.8 Re-connect P1 and turn TAC-92C ON. Grip Yes ELR1.9
the rate sensor with your finger and thumb No ELR1.4.1, then next
and gently rotate (fore/aft) the rate sensor.
Does Elevation drive the pedestal in response
to rotation of the rate sensor?
Were repairs made during the harness Yes Re-check ELR1.5
continuity checks? No Replace PCU and re-check
ELR1.8
ELR1.9 Turn TAC-92C OFF. Tighten the three Philips Yes
screws to secure the rate sensor mounting No Re-tape and re-check
plate to the pedestal. Re-install the
conductive tape over the rate sensor IDC
connection. Assure that the tape does not
short any of the wires in the IDC connector
and does not short the body of the rate sensor
to the pedestal ground or the harness
shield/braid. Re check ELR1.3. Is the rate
sensor isolated from ground?
Reconnect P1 to the PCU and turn TAC-92C Return
power ON

- 4-30 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ENC
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ENC1.0 Encoder failure
Common failures are;
1. Frequently/Constantly lit unwrap LED on
the TAC-92C.
2. Pedestal won’t drive to the CW stop during
initialization. OR Pedestal drives to the CCW
stop after initialization.
ENC1.1 Test – Best test is to observe initialization of
the antenna (azimuth phase). After
initialization of the antenna the unwrap LED
should not be frequently, or constantly, lit and
the TAC-92C display of the relative position of
the antenna should readout from 095 (where
CCW unwrap should occur) to 625 (where
CW unwrap should occur).
ENC1.2 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and disconnect
encoder connector (P3). Check pins for
corrosion or residue. Clean pins as needed
and re-connect.
ENC1.2.1 Rotate the pedestal and verify that the shaft of Yes ENC1.3
the encoder turns freely. Does the encoder No
shaft turn smoothly?
Check belt tension to the encoder sprocket. Yes Reposition encoder for proper
When the pedestal is rotated the belt should belt tension
not slip on the sprocket. Does the belt slip on No
the encoder sprocket?
Adjust mounting position of the encoder away Yes
from the belt. Rotate the shaft of the encoder. No ENC1.7
Does the shaft turn freely?
Check sprocket on shaft of the encoder. Is Yes Tighten set screw in the
the sprocket slipping on the shaft of the sprocket and re-test
encoder? No
Reposition encoder for proper belt tension
and re-test ENC1.2.1
ENC1.3 Turn TAC-92C power ON. Turn tracking OFF. Yes
Disconnect P5 from TB1 to disable azimuth No ENC1.6
drive. Measure DC voltage from P3 (blue IDC
at encoder) pin 2 to ground. Is the 5 VDC
OK?
ENC1.4 Monitor DC voltage from P3 pin 1 to ground Yes
while slowly rotating the antenna CW or CCW No ENC1.7
in azimuth. Voltage should step from 0.0-5.0
VDC. Does voltage step OK?
ENC1.5 Monitor DC voltage from P3 pin 3 to ground Yes
while slowly rotating the antenna CW or CCW No ENC1.7
in azimuth. Voltage should step from 0.0-5.0
VDC. Does voltage step OK?
Reconnect P5 (azimuth drive).

- 4-31 -
ENC Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ENC1.6 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Disconnect P3
from the encoder and P1 from the PCU.

Check continuity: Yes Repair, and re-test harness


From P3-1 to P1-33 ~ Short No
From P3-2 to P1-16, 17 & 31 ~ Short
From P3-3 to P1-32 ~ Short
From P3-5 to P1-37 ~ Short
Are any open lines?
Check continuity: Yes Repair, and re-test harness
From P3-1 to P3-2 ~ Open No Replace PCU and re-test
From P3-1 to P3-3 ~ Open
From P3-1 to P3-5 ~ Open
From P3-2 to P3-3~ Open
From P3-2 to P3-5 ~ Open
From P3-3 to P3-5 ~ Open
Are there any shorted lines?
ENC1.7 Antennas shipped after January 1997 do NOT Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
have encoders. These (current) antennas department Sea Tel Service
keep track of the relative position of the department
antenna by counting steps issued to the No Replace encoder and re-test
azimuth motor. When the encoder in an older
system fails Sea Tel recommends installation
of new PCU to convert to “encoder-less”
operation rather than replacing the encoder.
Is “encoder-less” operation desired?

- 4-32 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR1.0 Error Codes
When the TAC-92C Error LED is lit, press
mode to access the numeric value of the error
in the error code display. The error code
display is comprised of two values LLLL and
RRRR, where LLLL is a communications
counter that is not used in these systems and
the RRRR display is the value of the system
error(s). The error code display does NOT
represent multiple occurrences of the same
error (0003 is NOT three 0001s). The
numeric value displayed is the SUM of the
individual (different) errors that have occurred
(0003 = error 0001 plus error 0002).
Note the error code value and determine
which error(s) it represents. To clear the
error(s), press the UP arrow key while in the
error code display mode, or press the RESET
key. Errors should be noted, cleared and the
system monitored for frequency of re-
occurrence.
A frequent (or constant) error is an indication
of a system failure. Troubleshoot each error
individually.
ERR1.1 Error code 0001 – Gyro read error. ERR2.0
ERR1.2 Error code 0002 – Wrong Synchro ERR3.0
Converter Type error.
ERR1.3 Error code 0004 – Communications (ACU- ERR4.0
PCU) error.
ERR1.4 Error code 0008 – Reserved ERR5.0
ERR1.5 Error code 0016 – Conscan error. ERR6.0
ERR1.6 Error code 0032 – Reserved. ERR7.0
ERR1.7 Error code 0064 - Reserved. ERR8.0
ERR1.8 Error code 0128 – Satellite out of range ERR9.0
error.

- 4-33 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR2.0 Error Code 0001 – Gyro Read Error
ERR2.1 Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes
occurrence. Does this error re-occur? No Return
ERR2.2 Type of Ships Gyrocompass output
Verify the type of Gyrocompass signal that is
being used as the “Ships Heading” input to
the TAC-92C
Is NMEA 0183 Heading input being used? Yes ERR2.3
No
Is Step-By-Step (SBS) Heading input being Yes ERR2.4
used? No
Is Synchro Heading input being used? Yes ERR2.5
No
Set Gyro Type parameter to 0000.
Press MODE repeatedly until “Save ERR2.1
Parameters” is selected. Press the UP arrow,
then press ENTER to save the new System &
Gyro Type parameter values.
ERR2.3 NMEA Heading Gyrocompass/External
Fluxgate input
RS-422 ASCII Data wired to J13 ASPA port
on the rear of the TAC-92C. The ASCII Data
input string must contain standard HDM or
HDT ID text strings.
ERR2.3.1 Is the TAC-92C Software version 2.53 or Yes
higher? No Contact Sea Tel Service
department
Is the Pedestal Software the following version Yes
or higher; 4894 ver 1.32, 4094 ver 1.32, No Contact Sea Tel Service
3294 ver 1.32, 2494 DBS ver 2.51 or 2094 department
ver 1.06. Is the pedestal software correct?
Assure that the System Type parameter value
(sum of desired features) includes 8 feature to
enable communications between the ASPA
PCBs and the Main PCB. The most common
entries are 8, 12, 72 or 76.
If TAC-92C software is version 2.76 or lower
set Gyro Type parameter = 0000. If TAC-92C
software is version 2.77 or higher set Gyro
Type parameter = 0002.
Press MODE repeatedly until “Save
Parameters” is selected. Press the UP arrow,
then press ENTER to save the new System &
Gyro Type parameter values.
Remove top of TAC-92C. ASPA port software Yes
version NMEAH ver 1.04 or greater? No Contact Sea Tel Service
department

- 4-34 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR2.3.2 Verify that the RS-422 Data is getting to the Yes ERR2.3.4
Terminal Mounting Strip connections to the No
TAC-92C ASPA PCB (may require an
Oscilloscope). Is the Data input OK?
ERR2.3.3 Verify the RS-422 Data at the Gyrocompass Yes Repair wiring to the ACU re-
output. Is the Data output OK at the test ERR2.1
Gyrocompass? No
Check output fuse/switch for the output line. Yes
Is the fuse/switch OK? No Replace fuse/turn switch ON
and re-test ERR2.1
Repair the Gyrocompass and re-test
ERR2.3.2.
ERR2.3.4 Observe NMEA LED on the ASPA PCB that Yes
the Gyrocompass input is connected to. Is No Replace ASPA PCB and re-
the NMEA LED rapidly flashing? check
Is the Ships Heading display correct? Yes ERR2.1
No Replace Main PCB and re-
check
ERR2.4 SBS Gyrocompass input (6 step/degree)

Figure 1 SBS Gyrocompass Output


Refer to figure 1 (above). DC voltage
signaling of A, B and C phases to COM
stepping in sequence noted above. This input
is wired to Terminal Mounting Strip COM, A, B
and C terminals and connected, via ribbon
cable, to J2 port on the rear of the TAC-92C.
The most common voltage levels are +/-35 or
+/-70 VDC, however, check the manual for
the Gyrocompass to ascertain its’ correct
rated level of the output voltage. The opto-
isolated inputs on the Main PCB will not read
properly below about 20VDC.

- 4-35 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

The most common causes of this error are;


1. Noise on the line(s), that periodically
makes all three lines appear to be high
when only two are actually high.
2. Loss of voltage on the lines, making all
three lines go low.
ERR2.4.1 Correct Gyro Type parameter setting is 0002. Yes ERR2.4.2
Is Gyro Type set correctly? No
Set Gyro Type parameter = 0002.
Press MODE repeatedly until “Save
Parameters” is selected. Press the UP arrow,
then press ENTER to save the new Gyro
Type.
Press SHIP repeatedly to select Ships ERR2.1
Heading entry, enter the correct heading of
the Gyrocompass.
ERR2.4.2 At the Terminal Mounting Strip, measure the Yes
DC voltage level from COM to ground. This No Verify wiring connections
level should be either 0VDC or the rated from Terminal Mounting Strip
voltage of the Gyrocompass output (positive to the Gyrocompass output
or negative voltage). Is the voltage level terminals.
correct?
Monitor the DC voltage level from COM to Yes Incorrect wiring connections
ground. This voltage level should not change to the Gyrocompass output
as the boat turns. Does the voltage level vary terminals.
as the boat turns? No
ERR2.4.3 Phase voltage levels should switch from high
state to low state as the boat turns. The high
state voltage may be positive or negative
(rated voltage level of the Gyrocompass
output) and the low state level should be
approximately 0VDC.
Monitor the DC voltage level from COM to A. Yes
Is the high state voltage level correct? No ERR2.4.4
Verify phase voltage does switch as the boat Yes
turns. Does the phase voltage switch to low? No ERR2.4.4
Is the low state voltage approximately 0VDC? Yes
No ERR2.4.4
Monitor the DC voltage level from COM to B. Yes
Is the high state voltage level correct? No ERR2.4.4
Verify phase voltage does switch as the boat Yes
turns. Does the phase voltage switch to low? No ERR2.4.4
Is the low state voltage approximately 0VDC? Yes
No ERR2.4.4
Monitor the DC voltage level from COM to C. Yes
Is the high state voltage level correct? No ERR2.4.4

- 4-36 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Verify phase voltage does switch as the boat Yes


turns. Does the phase voltage switch to low? No ERR2.4.4
Is the low state voltage approximately 0VDC? Yes ERR2.4.5
No ERR2.4.4
ERR2.4.4 Disconnect ribbon cable from the ACU and re- Yes Replace Main PCB, verify all
test 2.4.3. Are the phase voltage levels and parameters, then ERR2.1
switching correct with the ACU disconnected? No
At the Gyrocompass distribution box, check Yes
output fuse/switch. Is the fuse/switch OK? No Replace fuse/turn switch ON
then next
Check output terminals in the distribution box Yes Reconnect all connections
terminals. Are the phase voltage levels and and re-test ERR2.1
switching correct? No Repair Gyrocompass and re-
check
ERR2.4.5 Monitor the A, B & C Phase lines with an Yes Repair Gyrocompass and re-
oscilloscope. Are there voltage spikes or test ERR2.1
noise on any of the lines? No
Monitor voltage inputs to the opto-isolators Yes Replace Main PCB, verify all
circuits on the main PCB. R7 is A phase, R5 parameters, then ERR2.1
is B phase and R3 is C phase. Are the phase No Repair/replace ribbon cable
voltage levels and switching correct? and re-test ERR2.1
ERR2.5 Synchro Gyrocompass input

Figure 2 Synchro Gyrocompass output


Refer to Figure 2 (above) showing the AC
voltage signaling of S1, S2 and S3 phases.
This input is wired to the Terminal Mounting
Strip R1, R2, S1, S2 and S3 terminals and
connected, via ribbon cable, to J2 port on the
rear of the TAC-92C. Valid Synchro input
ratios are 1:1, 36:1, 90:1 or 360:1, but
acceptable ratio(s) is dependant upon which
Synchro Converter PCB is installed inside the
TAC-92C.
Is the Gyrocompass output Synchro 1:1, 36:1, Yes
90:1 or 360:1? No Other ratios are not available.

- 4-37 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR2.5.1 Open the top cover of the TAC-92C and verify Yes ERR2.5.2
the type of synchro converter installed on the No Contact Sea Tel Service
Main PCB. The synchro converter (daughter department Sea Tel sales to
board) is plugged into the two 20-pin header procure an appropriate
strips on the left side of the main PCB, near Synchro Converter PCB to
the rear, partially under the ASPA boards. Is install.
a synchro converter installed?

Figure 3 360:1 to SBS Converter


ERR2.5.2 Is the PN 112790 360:1-To-SBS Synchro Yes
Converter PCB (Figure 3 above) installed? No ERR2.5.3
Is the Gyrocompass output 1:1 Synchro? Yes ERR2.5.4
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 36:1 Synchro? Yes ERR2.5.4
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 90:1 Synchro? Yes ERR2.5.4
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 360:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0360, then ERR2.5.5
No ERR2.2

Figure 4 12-Bit S/D Converter


ERR2.5.3 Is the PN 114836 12-Bit S/D Synchro to Yes
Digital Converter PCB (Figure 4 above) No ERR2.5.1
installed?

- 4-38 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Is the Gyrocompass output 1:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0001, then ERR2.5.5
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 36:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0036, then ERR2.5.5
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 90:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0090, then ERR2.5.5
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 360:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0362, then ERR2.5.5
No ERR2.2
ERR2.5.4 Contact Sea Tel Service department Sea Tel
sales dept to procure a 12-bit S/D Synchro to
Digital Converter PCB (PN 114836) to install.
ERR2.5.5 Press MODE repeatedly until “Save
Parameters” is selected. Press the UP arrow,
then press ENTER to save the new Gyro
Type.
Set heading …Clear the error and monitor the Yes
system for re-occurrence. Does the error No Return
0001 re-occur?
ERR2.6 Synchro Rotor AC Voltage
The most common rotor voltage is 110 VAC,
however some newer Gyrocompasses use 55
VAC output. Refer to the manual for the
Gyrocompass to ascertain its proper output
voltage level. This AC voltage should NOT
vary as the boat turns.
Measure the AC Voltage from R1 to R2 on the Yes
Terminal Mounting Strip. Is the AC voltage No ERR2.9
level correct?
Monitor the AC Voltage from R1 to R2 as the Yes Wiring to Gyrocompass is
boat turns. Does the AC voltage level vary? incorrect, correct wiring then
re-check.
No ERR2.8
ERR2.8 Synchro Stator AC Voltages
The most common stator voltage is 0-90 VAC,
however some newer Gyrocompasses have
0-36 VAC outputs. Refer to the manual for
the Gyrocompass to ascertain its proper
output voltage level. The stator voltages
should vary from 0VAC to Peak VAC as the
boat turns.
ERR2.8.1 Monitor the AC Voltage from S1 to S2 on the Yes
Terminal Mounting Strip. Does the AC No ERR2.9
voltage vary properly from 0-Peak?

- 4-39 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Is the “Peak” AC voltage level correct? Yes


No ERR2.9
ERR2.8.2 Monitor the AC Voltage from S2 to S3 on the Yes
Terminal Mounting Strip. Does the AC No ERR2.9
voltage vary properly from 0-Peak?
Is the “Peak” AC voltage level correct? Yes
No ERR2.9
ERR2.8.3 Monitor the AC Voltage from S3 to S1 on the Yes
Terminal Mounting Strip. Does the AC No ERR2.9
voltage vary properly from 0-Peak?
Is the “Peak” AC voltage level correct? Yes
No ERR2.9
ERR2.9 Disconnect ribbon cable from the ACU and re- Yes Replace Synchro Converter
test 2.4.3. Are the Peak voltage levels and PCB and re-check. If still
variations correct with the ACU disconnected? Yes, replace Main PCB, verify
all parameters, then ERR2.1
No
At the Gyrocompass distribution box, check Yes
output fuse/switch. Is the fuse/switch OK? No Replace fuse/turn switch ON
then next
Check output terminals in the distribution box Yes Reconnect all connections
terminals. Are the Peak voltage levels and and re-test ERR2.1
variations correct at the Gyrocompass? No Repair Gyrocompass and re-
check

- 4-40 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR3.0 Error Code 0002 – Wrong Synchro
Converter Type
This error occurs when the “Gyro Type”
parameter is set to an incorrect value for the
Synchro Converter (daughter board) which is
installed on the TAC-92C Main PCB.
ERR3.1 Is a ships Gyrocompass being used for Yes ERR3.3
heading input to the TAC-92C? No ERR3.2
ERR3.2 Fluxgate inputs
ERR3.2.1 Is the internal fluxgate (mounted on the Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
antenna pedestal) being used for heading 0000, then ERR3.8
input to the TAC-92C? No
ERR3.2.2 Is an external fluxgate device being used for Yes
heading input to the TAC-92C? No ERR3.1
Check the version of the TAC-92C software Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
being used. Is the TAC-92C software version 0002, then ERR3.8
2.77 or greater? No Set Gyro Type parameter to
0000, then ERR3.8
ERR3.3 Verify the type of output from the Ships
Gyrocompass.
Is the Gyrocompass output NMEA-0183 Yes
Heading? No ERR3.3.1
Check the version of the TAC-92C software Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
being used. Is the TAC-92C software version 0002, then ERR3.8
2.77 or greater? No Set Gyro Type parameter to
0000, then ERR3.8
ERR3.3.1 Is the Gyrocompass output Step-By-Step? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0002, then ERR3.8
No
Is the Gyrocompass output Synchro (1:1, Yes ERR3.4
36:1, 90:1 or 360:1)? No ERR3.3
ERR3.4 Open the top cover of the TAC-92C and verify Yes ERR3.5
the type of synchro converter installed on the No Contact Sea Tel sales
Main PCB. The synchro converter (daughter department to procure an
board) is plugged into the two 20-pin header appropriate Synchro
strips on the left side of the main PCB, near Converter PCB to install.
the rear, partially under the ASPA boards. Is
a synchro converter installed?

- 4-41 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR3.5

Is the PN 112790 360:1-To-SBS Synchro Yes


Converter PCB (shown above) installed? No ERR3.6
Is the Gyrocompass output 1:1 Synchro? Yes ERR3.7
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 36:1 Synchro? Yes ERR3.7
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 90:1 Synchro? Yes ERR3.7
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 360:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0360, then ERR3.8
No ERR3.3
ERR3.6

Is the PN 114836 12-Bit S/D Synchro to Yes


Digital Converter PCB (shown above) No ERR3.4
installed?
Is the Gyrocompass output 1:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0001, then ERR3.8
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 36:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0036, then ERR3.8
No
Is the Gyrocompass output 90:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0090, then ERR3.8
No

- 4-42 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Is the Gyrocompass output 360:1 Synchro? Yes Set Gyro Type parameter to
0362, then ERR3.8
No ERR3.3
ERR3.7 Contact Sea Tel Service department Sea Tel
sales dept to procure a 12-bit S/D Synchro to
Digital Converter PCB (PN 114836) to install.
ERR3.8 Press MODE repeatedly until “Save
Parameters” is selected. Press the UP arrow,
then press ENTER to save the new Gyro
Type.
Clear the error and monitor the system for re- Yes ERR3.1
occurrence. Does the error 0002 re-occur? No Return

- 4-43 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR4.0 Error Code 0004 –Communications error
This error indicates an RS422
communications error between the TAC-92C
Antenna Control Unit and the Antenna
Pedestal Control Unit.
This error will be indicated when the power-up
display of the TAC-92C reports “Remote Not
Responding”.
Refer to the Antenna Control Cable and
Antenna System Schematic drawings for all
voltage and continuity testing.
ERR4.1 Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes
occurrence. Does this error code and Remote No Return
Not Responding re-occur?
ERR4.2 Check to assure that the antenna control
cable connections are properly connected.
Visually inspect each connection. Caution:
Prior to re-seating any of the connections
turn TAC-92C power OFF, re-seat the
connection and then turn power back ON.
Is the antenna control cable plugged into J1 Yes
on the rear panel of the TAC-92C properly? No Caution re-seat connection
Is the antenna control cable plugged into the Yes
9-pin circular jack on the bracket mounted No Caution re-seat connection
inside the base-pan of the radome?
Is the antenna control cable connection (P2) Yes
plugged into J2 on the PCU? No Caution re-seat connection
Were any connections loose in the previous Yes
three steps? No ERR4.3
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes ERR4.3
occurrence. Does this error code and Remote No Return
Not Responding re-occur?
ERR4.3 DC voltage checks
Open the back-shell of P2 and check DC Yes ERR4.4
voltage from P2-15 to ground under load. Is No
the +24VDC OK?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pol/Feed short – isolate,
unplug P1 from the Pol Aux Relay PCB. Is repair and re-check ERR4.3
the P2-15 +24VDC OK? No
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pedestal short – isolate,
unplug P1 from PCU. Is the P2-15 +24VDC repair, and re-test ERR4.3
OK? No
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes PCU short – isolate, repair,
unplug P2 from PCU. Is the P2-15 +24VDC and re-test ERR4.3
OK? No

- 4-44 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Unplug the 9-pin Circular plug from the Yes Spool cable – SPOOL1.0
bracket in the base-pan of the radome. then re-test ERR4.3
Check the DC voltage from pin 9 to pin 5. Is No
the +24VDC OK?
Unplug P1 from the rear panel of the ACU and Yes ACC1.0 then re-test ERR4.3
check the DC voltage from J1-9 to J1-5. Is No
the +24VDC OK?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect all Yes
unplugged connections. Turn TAC-92C No TAC1.0
power ON and re-test 1.3. Is the +24VDC
Restored?
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes ERR4.4
occurrence. Does this error code and Remote No Return
Not Responding re-occur?
ERR4.4 Check continuity of the Antenna Control cable Yes
for opens and shorts as outlined in ACC1.1 No ERR4.5
and ACC1.2. Make repairs as necessary and
return to this section. Was the Antenna
Control Cable repaired or replaced?
Re-connect the Antenna Control Cable and Yes ERR4.5
turn the TAC-92C power ON. When No Return
initialization is complete clear this error and
monitor the system for re-occurrence. Does
this error code and Remote Not Responding
re-occur?
ERR4.5 Check continuity of the Spooler Cable for Yes
opens and shorts as outlined in SPOOL1.1 No ERR4.6
and SPOOL1.2. Make repairs as necessary
and return to this section. Was the Spooler
Cable repaired or replaced?
Re-connect the Spooler Cable and turn the Yes ERR4.6
TAC-92C power ON. When initialization is No Return
complete clear this error and monitor the
system for re-occurrence. Does this error
code and Remote Not Responding re-occur?
ERR4.6 RS422 signal checks
ERR4.6.1 TAC-92C TX data signal checks.
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and disconnect P1 Yes
from the rear panel. Turn TAC-92C power No Replace Main PCB and re-
ON and check the DC voltage from the check
junction of R44 & C49 to ground on the Main
PCB. Press and hold the RESET button on
the front panel of the TAC-92C to keep the TX
signal at a steady high state. This voltage
should be approx. -11VDC. Is the TX signal
present?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and re-connect P1 Yes
to the rear panel. Turn TAC-92C power ON No Replace PCU and re-check
and re-check the DC voltage from the junction
of R44 & C49 to ground on the Main PCB. Is
the TX signal present?

- 4-45 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes
occurrence. Does this error code and Remote No Return
Not Responding re-occur?
ERR4.6.2 TAC-92C RX data signal checks (also see RX
Note below).

Check the DC voltage from the U24 pin 2 (+) Yes ERR4.6.4
to E4 (-) on the Main PCB. Press and hold No Replace the PCU, then
the RESET button on the front panel of the ERR4.6.3
TAC-92C to keep the RX signal at a steady
high state. This voltage should be at least
3.0VDC. Is the RX signal present?
ERR4.6.3 Re-check the DC voltage from the U24 pin 2 Yes ERR4.6.4
(+) to E4 (-) on the Main PCB as above. This No Replace the Main PCB,
voltage should be at least 3.0VDC. Is the RX reinstall the original PCU and
signal present now? re-check
ERR4.6.4 Verify that the E4/E5/E6 Jumper is shorting Yes
E5 to E6. Is the jumper in the correct No Correct the jumper position
position? then next
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
occurrence. Does this error code and Remote department
Not Responding re-occur? No Return
RX Note If the system is equipped with Conscan,
assure that the 8 value is included in the
SYSTEM TYPE parameter and observe the
Disk Sensor LED on the Conscan Controller
(lower ASPA PCB in the rear panel of the
TAC-92C). Activity of the LED’s on the
Conscan Controller indicates that the RX
signal is present, the jumper is in the correct
position and that the Main PCB is processing
the RX signal and passing it to the Conscan
Controller. This is a very good quick
indication of RX processing.

- 4-46 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR5.0 Error Code 0008 – Pedestal function error
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
occurrence. Does this error code re-occur? department
No Return

- 4-47 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR6.0 Error Code 0016 – Conscan error
The Conscan Motor Driver PCB generates
five 2msec pulses per revolution of the
eccentric scalar plate. If the timing of the
pulses from the Conscan feed is incorrect
(time between pulses exceeds 400 msec) a
Conscan Error will be generated. This error
code does NOT cause the Error LED to
illuminate.

Figure 1 Conscan Pulses


This error may be due to:
1. Eccentric scalar plate is not rotating, not
rotating fast enough or is starting and
stopping rotation.
2. Conscan (Hall) sensor failure.
3. Harness failure.
4. Aux Pol Relay PCB failure.
5. PCU failure.
6. Main PCB failure.
7. ASPA w/con PCB failure.
Refer to the Pedestal Harness Schematic
and Antenna System Schematic drawings
for all voltage and continuity testing.
ERR6.1 Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes
occurrence. Does this error code re-occur? No Return
ERR6.2 Conscan Feed Checks
Turn tracking OFF. Remove the radome top
(or open the radome door) to gain access to
the pedestal.

Figure 2 Ku-Band Conscan Feed Assemblies

- 4-48 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Rotate the antenna pedestal as needed to Yes


view the feed assembly. Visually inspect the No
feed. Is it a Conscan feed assembly?
ERR6.2.1 Refer to figure 2, is the antenna fitted with a Yes ERR6.2.2
Conscan modified feed? No
Set TAC-92C parameters for Step Track Re-test ERR6.1
operation and save the parameter changes.
EL Step Size = 0002
AZ Step Size = 0002
Step Integral = 0060

Figure 3 Conscan Motor Driver PCB


ERR6.2.2 Visually inspect the feed and harness Yes
connections. Refer to figure 3. Are P1 & P2 No Re-connect and re-check
plugged in correctly?
Are any wires frayed or broken? Yes Repair and re-check
No
ERR6.2.3 Is the eccentric scalar plate rotating Yes ERR6.6
continuously CW? No, starting &
stopping or
not rotating
ERR6.2.4 The Conscan drive belt should drive smoothly
through both sprockets. The tension of the
belt should be only taught enough to prevent
the belt from slipping on either sprocket.
Is the belt broken? Yes Replace belt then next
No
Is the drive belt dragging on either sprocket? Yes Adjust/bend the motor
mounting bracket to allow belt
to run smoothly and re-check
No
ERR6.2.5 Unplug P2 from the Conscan Motor Driver Yes ERR6.2.6
PCB to stop motor drive. Rotate the eccentric No
scalar plate by hand. The scalar plate should
rotate freely and easily, with no sticky spots or
binding in rotation. Does the scalar plate
rotate freely?

- 4-49 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Loosen the drive motor mounting screws and Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
adjust the motor position to disengage the department
belt. Rotate the eccentric scalar plate. Is the No
bearing binding?

Rotate the drive motor sprocket. Is the motor Yes Replace drive motor and re-
binding? test ERR6.2.5
No
ERR6.2.6 Set belt tension by loosening the drive motor
mounting screws and adjust the motor
position to put only enough tension on the belt
to prevent the belt from slipping on either
sprocket. Do NOT over tension the belt.
ERR6.4 Measure the DC voltage on P1 from pin 1 to Yes
pin 2. Is the +15VDC OK (>+13VDC)? No ERR6.5
The sensor pulse voltage will be high (5VDC)
until the magnet passes under the hall sensor.
When the magnet passes under the Hall
sensor the pulse voltage will go to low
(0VDC). The transition of the pulse must be
at least 3.5VDC.
Monitor the pulse voltage from U3 pin 17 to Yes
ground on the Conscan Motor Driver PCB No R pulse missing, replace
while manually rotating the eccentric scalar Conscan Motor Driver PCB
plate 360 degrees. Is the pulse present (once and re-check
per rotation)?
Check the +12VDC from J2 pin 3 to ground Yes
and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12VDC motor No Replace Conscan Motor
voltage OK (>10VDC)? Driver PCB and re-check
Plug P2 and check continuity of the motor Yes
windings measure from: No Motor open - Replace motor
P2-1 to P2-3 or 4 ~38Ù and re-check.
P2-2 to P2-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P2-5 to P2-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P2-6 to P2-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P2-1 to P2-2 ~76Ù
P2-5 to P2-6 ~76Ù
Is motor winding continuity good?
Check continuity of the motor windings to Yes Motor shorted - Replace
ground: motor and re-check.
P2-1 to ground = Open No
P2-2 to ground = Open
P2-3 to ground = Open
P2-4 to ground = Open
P2-4 to ground = Open
P2-6 to ground = Open
Is the motor shorted?

- 4-50 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Plug P2 back into the Conscan Motor Driver Yes ERR6.6


PCB. Is the eccentric scalar plate rotating No Replace Conscan Motor
continuously CW now? Driver PCB and re-check
ERR6.5 +15VDC Checks
Unplug P1 from the Conscan Motor Driver Yes Replace the Conscan Motor
and check the +15VDC from P1 pin 1 to pin 2. Driver (shorted). Plug P1 in
Is the +15VDC OK (>+13VDC)? and re-test ERR6.4
No
ERR6.5.1 Check the voltage at the Polang Aux Relay Yes
PCB from P2 pin 1 to pin 4. Is the +15VDC No ERR6.5.2
OK (>+13VDC)?
Unplug P2 and check harness continuity from Yes
Polang Aux Relay PCB P2 to Conscan Motor No Repair harness, restore
Driver P1: connections and re-test
P2 pin 1 to P1 pin 1 = Short ERR6.4
P2 pin 4 to P1 pin 2 = Short
P2 pin 7 to P1 pin 3 = Short
Is the harness continuity good?
ERR6.5.2 Unplug P2 and check the voltage at the Yes
Polang Aux Relay PCB from J2 pin 1 to pin 4. No ERR6.5.3
Is the +15VDC OK (>+13VDC)?
Check harness continuity from Polang Aux Yes
Relay PCB P2 to Conscan Motor Driver P1: No Repair harness, restore
P2 pin 1 to P1 pin 2 = Open connections and re-test
P2 pin 1 to P1 pin 3 = Open ERR6.4
P2 pin 4 to P1 pin 1 = Open
P2 pin 4 to P1 pin 3 = Open
P2 pin 7 to P1 pin 1 = Open
P2 pin 7 to P1 pin 2 = Open
P2 pin 1 to Shield = Open
P2 pin 4 to Shield = Open
P2 pin 7 to Shield = Open
Is the harness continuity good?
ERR6.5.3 Check the voltage at the Polang Aux Relay Yes Replace Polang Aux Relay
PCB from P1 pin 3 to pin 6. Is the +28VDC PCB, re-connection & re-test
OK (>+26VDC)? ERR6.4
No
Unplug P1 and check the voltage at the Aux Yes Replace Polang Aux Relay
Polang Relay PCB from P1 pin 3 to pin 6. Is PCB (shorted), restore
the +28VDC OK (>+26VDC)? connections and re-test
ERR6.4
No

- 4-51 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Turn TAC-92C power OFF and unplug P2 Yes


from the PCU. Test harness continuity from No Repair harness and re-check
Polang Aux Relay P1 to PCU P2:
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 3 = Short
P1 pin 2 to P2 pin 2 = Short
P1 pin 3 to P2 pin 9 = Short
P1 pin 4 to P2 pin 1 = Short
P1 pin 5 to P2 pin 10 = Short
P1 pin 6 to P2 pin 12 = Short
Is the harness continuity good?
Test harness continuity from Polang Aux Yes
Relay P1 to PCU P2: No Repair harness and re-check
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 2 = Open
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 9 = Open
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 1 = Open
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 10 = Open
P1 pin 1 to P2 pin 12 = Open
P1 pin 2 to P2 pin 9 = Open
P1 pin 2 to P2 pin 1 = Open
P1 pin 2 to P2 pin 10 = Open
P1 pin 2 to P2 pin 12 = Open
P1 pin 3 to P2 pin 1 = Open
P1 pin 3 to P2 pin 10 = Open
P1 pin 3 to P2 pin 12 = Open
P1 pin 4 to P2 pin 10 = Open
P1 pin 4 to P2 pin 12 = Open
P1 pin 5 to P2 pin 12 = Open
P1 pin 1 to Shield = Open
P1 pin 2 to Shield = Open
P1 pin 3 to Shield = Open
P1 pin 4 to Shield = Open
P1 pin 5 to Shield = Open
P1 pin 6 to Shield = Open
Is the harness continuity good?
Were harness repairs made in either of the Yes Restore connections, turn
previous two steps? TAC-92C power ON and re-
test ERR6.4
No Replace the PCU, restore
connections, turn TAC-92C
power ON and re-test
ERR6.4

- 4-52 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR6.6 TAC-92C Checks
ERR6.6.1 Check TAC-92C parameters to assure they Yes
are set for Conscan operation: No Enter correct values, save
EL Step Size = 0003 parameter changes then re-
AZ Step Size = 0003 test ERR6.1
Step Integral = 0000
System Type = 8, 12, 72 or 76
Are these parameters correct?
Remove the cover of the TAC-92C. Inspect Yes
the cable that connects the ASPA PCBs (J11 No Reconnect, then next.
& J13) to the Main PCB. Is the cable
connected properly?
Are interconnect cable wires frayed or Yes Repair/replace, then next.
broken? No
Check JP3 jumper on the Main PCB. Is the Yes
jumper in the correct position (shorted)? No Short jumper, then next.
Observe the LEDs mounted on the ASPA Yes ERR6.1
w/Conscan PCB (J11 in the Rear Panel). Is No
the DISK LED rapidly flashing?
ERR6.7 Conscan Pulse Checks
An oscilloscope must be used for the following
checks.
ERR6.7.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin Yes Isolate short and repair, then
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and re-check
the PCU. Check continuity from the test No
adapter pin 2 to ground. Is the Conscan pulse
line shorted?
Check continuity from the test adapter pin 2 to Yes
Conscan Motor Driver J1 pin 3 (wht/grn). Is No Isolate open and repair, then
the Conscan pulse line continuity OK (short)? re-check
Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin Yes ERR6.7.2
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and No
the PCU. Turn TAC-92C power ON. Refer to
figure 1 and view the signal on P2 pin 2. Are
the Conscan pulses present?
View the signal at Polang Aux Relay PCB P1 Yes Repair PCU to Polang Aux
pin 2. Are the Conscan pulses present? Relay harness open and re-
test ERR6.7.1
No
View the signal at Polang Aux Relay PCB P2 Yes Replace Polang Aux Relay
pin 7. Are the Conscan pulses present? PCB (open) and re-test
ERR6.7.1
No

- 4-53 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

View the signal at Conscan Motor Driver PCB Yes Repair Polang Aux Relay to
P1 pin 3. Are the Conscan pulses present? Conscan Motor Driver
harness open and re-test
ERR6.7.1
No
ERR6.7.2 At the TAC-92C, open JP3. View signal at Yes ERR6.7.3
JP3. Are the Conscan pulses present on No
either pin of JP3?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF, remove the 15-Pin Yes ERR6.7.3
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and No
the PCU. Replace PCU and turn TAC-92C
power ON. Are the Conscan pulses present
on either pin of JP3 now?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF, replace Main PCB Yes ERR6.7.3
and turn TAC-92C power ON. Are the No
Conscan pulses present on either pin of JP3
now?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF, replace J11 ASPA Yes ERR6.7.3
w/CON PCB and turn TAC-92C power ON. No
Are the Conscan pulses present on either pin
of JP3 now?
Turn TAC-92C power OFF, replace J13 ASPA Yes ERR6.7.3
and turn TAC-92C power ON. Are the No Contact Sea Tel Service
Conscan pulses present on either pin of JP3 department
now?
ERR6.7.3 View the signal at P12 pin 9. Are the Yes Hard wired Conscan, leave
Conscan pulses present? JP3 open
No Short JP3
View the signal at P12 pin 9. Are the Yes Serial Conscan leave JP3
Conscan pulses present now? shorted
No Replace Main PCB and re-
test ERR6.7.3
View the signal at TP2 on the J11 ASPA Yes
w/CON PCB. Are the Conscan pulses No Replace ASPA interconnect
present? cable and re-check.
Observe the DISK LED on the J11 ASPA Yes ERR6.1
w/CON PCB. Is the LED rapidly flashing?
No Replace J11 ASPA w/CON
PCB and re-check

- 4-54 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR7.0 Error Code 0032 – Reserved for future use
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
occurrence. Does this error code re-occur? department
No Return

- 4-55 -
ERR Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR8.0 Error Code 0064 – Reserved for future use
Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
occurrence. Does this error code re-occur? department
No Return

- 4-56 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ERR
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ERR9.0 Error Code 0128 – Satellite Out Of Range
Calculated elevation of the desired satellite is
below the horizon from the present Latitude
and Longitude (therefore, the Earth itself will
block the signal from that satellite).

This error will occur when the desired satellite


(SAT) longitude is too distant from the present
Longitude of the boat. It will also occur when
one, or more, of the entries (LAT, LON and/or
SAT) has not been entered properly. The
most common mistakes are not updating the
LAT/LON entries and incorrect E/W settings.
ERR9.1 Clear this error and monitor the system for re- Yes
occurrence. Does this error code re-occur? No Return
ERR9.2 Check Latitude (LAT) entry to assure it is Yes
correct form the current location of the boat. No Correct the entry, then next
Is the Latitude entry correct?
Assure that the North/South (N/S) portion of Yes
the Latitude is set correctly for the hemisphere No Correct the entry, then next
that the boat is located in. Is the Latitude N/S
entry correct?
ERR9.3 Check Longitude (LON) entry to assure it is Yes
correct form the current location of the boat. No Correct the entry, then next
Is the Longitude entry correct?
Assure that the East/West (E/W) portion of the Yes
Longitude is set correctly for the hemisphere No Correct the entry, then next
that the boat is located in. Is the Longitude
E/W entry correct?
ERR9.4 Check Satellite Longitude (SAT) entry to Yes
assure it is correctly entered for the satellite No Correct the entry, then next
you desire to target. Is the Satellite Longitude
entry correct?
Assure that the East/West (E/W) portion of the Yes
Satellite Longitude is set correctly for the No Correct the entry, then next
desired satellite. Is the Satellite Longitude
E/W entry correct?
ERR9.5 If the absolute difference between the LON Yes
and SAT entries is greater than 50 degrees No ERR9.1
the satellite may be below the horizon. Is the
difference between LON and SAT greater
than 50 degrees?
Calculate the elevation of the desired satellite Yes Use another satellite
from the present latitude and longitude (use No ERR9.1
SatCoDX web site or Contact Sea Tel Service
department Sea Tel to calculate). Is the sat
below horizon?

- 4-57 -
FLUX Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
FLUX1.0 Fluxgate PCB failure
Common indications are:
1. Heading error greater than +/- 10 degrees.
2. Remote Compensation resulted in a
“Comp Range Error”.
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic
drawings for all voltage and continuity checks.
FLUX1.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
Is the IDC connection (P14) mated properly Yes
on the Fluxgate PCB? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are any wires in the IDC connector (P14) Yes Repair and re-check.
broken or frayed? No
FLUX1.2 Fluxgate Sensor continuity
Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Disconnect P14 Yes
from the Fluxgate PCB. Measure continuity of No Replace the Fluxgate PCB,
the Fluxgate device from J14: then COMP1.0
Pin 1 to pin 2 ~ 1 ohm
Pin 3 to pin 4 ~ 140 ohms
Pin 4 to pin 5 ~ 140 ohms
Is continuity OK?
FLUX1.2 Harness continuity
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and measure Yes
continuity from: No Repair and re-check
P14-1 to P1-6 or 22 Short
P14-2 to P1-6 or 22 Short
P14-3 to P1-24 Short
P14-4 to P1-16, 17 or 31 Short
P14-5 to P1-39 Short
Is the harness continuity good?
Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes COMP1.0
previous step? No Replace the PCU, then
COMP1.0

- 4-58 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide HOME
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
HOME1.0 Home Sensor / Home Flag
Home sensor read error may cause:
1. During initialization elevation does not stop
when reaching correct angle (where level
cage is approximately level)
2. Elevation motor moves the antenna up
3. Antenna does not stop, or change speed at
the horizon.
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic and
the Pedestal Harness Schematic drawings for
all voltage and continuity checks.
HOME1.1

Figure 1 Level cage and Home Flag


Turn the TAC-92C power OFF. Remove the
radome top (or open the radome door) to gain
access to the pedestal.
Rotate the level cage through its 90 degree Yes
range of rotation. The level cage should No Contact Sea Tel Service
rotate freely and easily with light finger department
pressure. Does the level cage rotate freely?
Assure that the cables in the area are not Yes Re-route or tie cables away
restricting or binding the free rotation of the from the level cage and re-
level cage. Is there cable restriction noted? check.
No
Check the drive belt. Is the belt broken or Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
loose? and re-check.
No
Is the 44 pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes
the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are the harness and motor IDC connections Yes
to J15 & J16 mated properly on the level No Re-mate connection and re-
platform PCB check
Are the wires in the IDC connectors (P15 & Yes Repair and re-check.
P16) broken or frayed? No
Is the home flag cam tight on the shaft? Yes
No Contact Sea Tel Service
department

- 4-59 -
HOME Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
HOME1.2 Home Flag signal
Rotate the level cage to be about level. Yes HOME1.4
Monitor the DC voltage from J16 pin 1 to No
ground as the level cage is rotated slightly
CW/CCW from the level position. The Home
Flag DC voltage should change from 0VDC to
5VDC. Does the Home Flag voltage change
at some point of rotation near level?
HOME1.3 Home sensor fault
Measure the DC voltage from J16 pin 5 to Yes Replace the level platform
ground. Is the 5VDC OK? PCB and re-test HOME1.2
No
HOME1.4 Harness Continuity
HOME1.4.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF.
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No
Disconnect P16 from the level platform PCB Yes
and check continuity from: No Repair harness and re-check
P16-1 to P1-1 = Short
P16-3 to P1-38 = Short
P16-5 to P1-17 = Short
Is continuity good?
Check continuity from: Yes Repair and re-check
P16-1 to ground = Open No
P16-3 to ground = Open
P16-5 to ground = Open
P16-1 to P16-3 = Open
P16-1 to P16-5 = Open
P16-3 to P16-5 = Open
Is harness shorted?
HOME1.4.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes HOME1.2
previous three steps?
No Replace PCU and re-test
HOME1.2

- 4-60 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide INIT
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
INIT1.0 Antenna Initialization
Initialization Test - Each time power to the
system is cycled the antenna will go through a
specific sequence of steps (listed below) to
initialize the antenna. These phases initialize
azimuth, the level cage, elevation and cross-
level to predetermined starting positions.
Initialization takes about two minutes.

NOTE: Some of the actions of the antenna


during initialization occur simultaneously,
when trying to isolate failures it may be
necessary to cycle power several times to
view each of these phases independently.

INIT1.1 Setup – Turn the TAC-92C power OFF and


remove the radome top (or open the radome
hatch on larger systems).

INIT1.1.1 Visually inspect the inside surface of the Inspection OK


radome top and of the antenna pedestal. Items noted VIS1.0
Look for water or condensation, rust or
corrosion, white fiberglass power residue,
loose wiring connections, loose hardware,
loose or broken belts or any other signs of
wear or damage.

INIT1.1.2 Rotate the antenna in azimuth until it is Rotation OK


pointed toward the bow. Rotate elevation of Mechanical ROM1.0
the antenna UP to zenith (90 degrees). Binding is
Rotate the level cage fully CW to the stop. Tilt noted
the antenna off-level (left/right) about 10
degrees.

INIT1.1.3 Have someone turn TAC-92C power ON and


carefully observe each of the initialization
phases of the antenna during “power-up”
cycle to verify that each phase completes
correctly. This information assists in isolating
a problem.

NOTE: Sun reflecting into the level cage may


adversely affect the initialization of the level
cage. Shield the sun penetration with your
hands during the first 30 seconds of
initialization.

- 4-61 -
INIT Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
INIT1.2 Initialization phases
INIT1.2.1 The antenna will rotate CW in azimuth to the Yes
mechanical stop (antenna should now be Yes, but MINST1.0
pointing to the port side). The antenna will antenna was
“tick” against the CW stop for several not pointed to
seconds. Does this phase complete the port side.
correctly?
No, it did not AZD1.0
rotate.
No, it only ENC1.0
turned CW
about 60
degrees.
No, antenna ENC1.0
rotated CCW
after
initialization
INIT1.2.2 The level cage rotates full CCW and “ticks” Yes
against the stop for several seconds. Then No level cage LEV1.0
the level cage will rotate CW to 15° (2094), did not drive
25° (2494) or 5° (3294, 4094 & 4894). Does
this phase complete correctly? No, level cage LEV1.0
drives the
wrong
direction
INIT1.2.3 The elevation motor drives the equipment Yes
frame to bring the level cage to level (front to
No elevation ELD1.0
back) which results in the elevation of the dish
drive.
subsequently being at 15° (2094), 25° (2494)
or 5° (3294, 4094 & 4894) up from the No, elevation HOME1.0
horizon. Elevation should drive quickly bring does not stop
the level cage to approximately level where it when reaching
will abruptly change speed to slowly bring the correct angle
level cage to level. Does this phase complete (where level
correctly? cage is
approximately
level).
No, antenna ELR1.0 and TILT1.0
reaches this
position
momentarily
then drives to
the upper or
lower stop(s)
INIT1.2.4 The cross level motor smoothly drives to Yes
approximately “level” the cross level beam No cross level CLD1.0
(and the level cage) in left-to-right tilt. Does drive or drive
this phase complete correctly? “jerks” the
beam
No, cross level CLR1.0 and TILT1.0
drives to the
left or right
stop(s)

- 4-62 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide INIT
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
INIT1.2.5 During the two minute initialization period Yes
cross level and elevation should continue to
No, level cage TILT1.0
slowly bring the level cage to “level” in both
is not level or
the left-right and the front-back axes. Is the
does not stay
level cage “level” +/- 2 degrees?
level during
antenna
motion.
INIT1.3 Initialization completed. Did initialization Yes Return
complete satisfactorily? No, system VoltSel1.0
keeps going
into
initialization
No, ACU ERR4.0
displays
“Remote Not
Responding”

- 4-63 -
LEV Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
LEV1.0 Level Cage Drive problems
Loss of proper level cage drive could be due
to belt, motor or harness failure or due to
mechanical binding. This directly affects
proper Elevation operation of the antenna
(pointing, tracking and stabilization).

Refer to the Pedestal Harness Schematic


and Antenna System Schematic drawings
for all voltage and continuity testing.

Turn the TAC-92C power OFF. Remove the


radome top (or open the radome door).

LEV1.1 Rotate the level cage through its 90 degree Yes


range of rotation. The level cage rotate freely No Contact Sea Tel Service
and easily with light finger pressure. Does the department
level cage rotate freely?
Assure that the cables in the area are not Yes Re-route or tie cables away
restricting or binding the free rotation of the from the level cage and re-
level cage. Is there cable restriction noted? check.
No
Check the drive belt. Is the belt broken or Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
loose? and re-check.
No
Is the 44 pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes
the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
Are the harness and motor IDC connections Yes
to J12 & J13 mated properly on the terminal No Re-mate connection and re-
board (TB4)? check

Are the wires in the IDC connectors (P12 & Yes Repair and re-check.
P13) broken or frayed? No
LEV1.2 Level cage drive test: Turn the TAC-92C Yes Return
power ON and observe the level cage while No, level cage LEV1.6
the antenna is initializing (CCW to the stop, drives the
then CW the correct number of degrees for wrong
the model of the antenna), or while stepping, direction
slewing or targeting elevation (cage rotates
CW to increase elevation, CCW to lower No drive
elevation). Is level cage drive restored?

- 4-64 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide LEV
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
LEV1.3 +12VDC test
Check DC voltage from J12 and J13 pin 3 to Yes > 11VDC LEV1.4
ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC No, voltage is LEV1.7
OK? low or missing
No, voltage is Repair/replace TB4 and re-
good on J12 check
but missing on
J13
LEV1.4 Motor (M4) Continuity
Disconnect P13 and check continuity of the Yes
motor windings (note: P13-3 and P13-4 may No Motor open - Replace motor
be transposed on some motors), measure and re-check.
from:
P13-1 to P13-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P13-2 to P13-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P13-5 to P13-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P13-6 to P13-3 or 4 ~38Ù
P13-1 to P13-2 ~76Ù
P13-5 to P13-6 ~76Ù
Is motor winding continuity good?
Check continuity of the motor windings to Yes Motor shorted - Replace
ground: motor and re-check.
P13-1 to ground = Open No
P13-2 to ground = Open
P13-3 to ground = Open
P13-4 to ground = Open
P13-4 to ground = Open
P13-6 to ground = Open
Is the motor shorted?
Reconnect P13. Re-test level cage drive. Is Yes Return
level cage drive restored? No
LEV1.5 Harness Continuity
LEV1.5.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and visually Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
inspect P1. Are any pins bent, broken or pins as needed and re-check.
pushed into the body of the connector? No

- 4-65 -
LEV Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P12 from TB4 and check Yes Repair and re-check
continuity from: No
P12-1 to ground = Open
P12-2 to ground = Open
P12-4 to ground = Open
P12-5 to ground = Open
P12-6 to ground = Open
P12-1 to P12-2 = Open
P12-1 to P12-4 = Open
P12-1 to P12-5 = Open
P12-1 to P12-6 = Open
P12-2 to P12-4 = Open
P12-2 to P12-5 = Open
P12-2 to P12-6 = Open
P12-4 to P12-5 = Open
P12-4 to P12-6 = Open
P12-5 to P12-6 = Open
Is harness shorted?
Check continuity from: Yes
P12-1 to P1-13 = Short No Repair harness and re-check
P12-2 to P1-11 = Short
P12-4 to P1-41 = Short
P12-5 to P1-9 = Short
P12-6 to P1-21 = Short
Is continuity good?
LEV1.5.2 Were repairs made to the harness in the Yes LEV1.2
previous three steps? No
Replace PCU (failed drivers), re-connect all Yes Return
cables and turn TAC-92C power ON. Is level
cage drive restored? No Contact Sea Tel Service
department
LEV1.6 Level Cage drives wrong direction
Verify motor wire color code to P13 per Yes
Pedestal Harness Schematic. Is the P13 No Replace motor and re-check
wired correctly?
Verify correct software in PCU. Is the Yes
software correct for the antenna model? No Replace PCU software with
correct version and re-check
Plug spare motor (unmounted) into TB1. Yes LEV1.5
Does spare motor turn same direction as the No Replace motor and re-test
installed motor? LEV1.2
LEV1.7 +12VDC is low (< 11VDC) or missing
LEV1.7.1 Is the +12.0 VDC approximately half the Yes
nominal voltage? No LEV1.7.3

- 4-66 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide LEV
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check the Voltage Select/Fuse block in the Yes


power module on the rear panel of TAC-92C. No Set for correct AC voltage
Is it set for the correct AC line voltage? then next
LEV1.7.2 Re-check DC voltage from J12 and J13 pin 3 Yes > 11VDC Re-test LEV1.2
to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0
VDC OK now? No
LEV1.7.3 Disconnect P13 from TB4 and check +12VDC Yes Motor short – Replace motor
from J12 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC then LEV1.7.2
OK? No
Disconnect P12 from TB4 and check +12VDC Yes TB4 short - Repair/replace
from P12 pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC TB4, then LEV1.7.2
OK? No
Disconnect P1 from the PCU and check the Yes Harness open/short -
DC voltage From J1 pins 40, 41, 42, 43 and LEV1.5.1 then next
44 to ground. Is the +12.0 VDC OK? No LEV1.7.4
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect P1, Yes LEV1.7.2
P12 and P13. Turn TAC-92C power ON and No Pedestal Harness short –
re-check DC voltage from J12 and J13 pin 3 Isolate shorted wire(s) or
to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is the +12.0 component(s), repair and re-
VDC OK? check
LEV1.7.4 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Install the 15-Pin
In-Line Test-Point connector between P2 and
the PCU. Turn TAC-92C power ON.
Check DC voltage from P2-15 to ground Yes +12VDC regulator failure -
under load. This may also be done by Replace PCU then LEV1.8
opening the back-shell of P2 to access pin 15 No
OR by opening the PCU and access on U14
pin 5. Is the voltage +24VDC or greater?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pol/Feed short – isolate,
unplug P1 from the Pol Aux Relay PCB. Is repair and re-check
the voltage +24VDC or greater when P1 is No
unplugged?
Monitor the voltage from P2-15 to ground and Yes Pedestal short – isolate,
unplug P1 from PCU. Is the voltage +24VDC repair, and re-check
or greater when PCU P1 is unplugged? No
Unplug P2, remove the 15-Pin In-Line Test- Yes PCU short – replace PCU,
Point connector from PCU and check the then LEV1.8
voltage from P2-15 to ground. Is the voltage No
+26VDC or greater?
LEV1.7.5 Unplug the 9-pin Circular plug from the Yes Spool cable – SPOOL1.0
bracket (jack) in the base-pan of the radome. then LEV1.8
Check the DC voltage at the plug from pin 9 to No
pin 5. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater?
LEV1.7.6 Unplug P1 from the rear panel of the ACU and Yes ACC1.0 then LEV1.8
check the DC voltage from J1-9 to J1-5. Is the No
voltage +26VDC or greater?

- 4-67 -
LEV Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Remove top cover of the TAC-92C and test Yes Loss of +28VDC path –
DC voltage from Main PCB connector J5-3 to Replace Main PCB then
ground. Is the voltage +26VDC or greater? LEV1.8
No
LEV1.7.7 Turn the TAC-92C Power OFF, unplug the AC Yes
line cord from the rear panel and extract the No Replace fuse(s) then next
voltage select block. Test both fuses (250V
2Amp Slow-Blow). Are BOTH fuses good?
Re-insert the voltage select block (assure it is Yes LEV1.8
in the correct orientation for the AC line
No TAC1.0 then LEV1.8
voltage) and re-install the AC line cord. Turn
TAC-92C power ON and test DC voltage from
Main PCB connector J5-3 to ground. Is the
voltage +28VDC restored (> +26VDC)?
LEV1.8 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and reconnect all Yes > 11VDC Re-test LEV1.2
unplugged connections. Reinstall ACU &
No Contact Sea Tel Service
PCU covers as necessary. Turn TAC-92C
department
power ON and re-check DC voltage from J4
and J5 pin 3 to ground and pin 4 to ground. Is
the +12.0 VDC OK now?

- 4-68 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide MINST
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
MINST1.0 Mechanical Installation
When the radome is properly installed, the
center of the mechanical range of rotation of
the antenna pedestal will be aligned/oriented
in-line with the bow of the boat (+/- 5
degrees). To accurately target satellites, any
misalignment of the antenna must be added
to/subtracted from the magnetic variation and
entered in the AZ TRIM parameter.
MINST1.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Rotate the antenna full CCW. Is the antenna Yes
now pointed directly to the starboard side of No Note amount of mounting
the boat? error CW/CCW
Rotate the antenna CW 270 degrees. Is the Yes
antenna now pointed directly in-line with the No Note amount of mounting
bow? error CW/CCW
Rotate the antenna full CW (another 270 Yes
degrees CW). Is the antenna now pointed No Note amount of mounting
directly to the port side of the boat? error CW/CCW
Is there mounting error? Yes MINST1.2
No MINST1.4
MINST1.2 Mounting error
If the amount of error is small (5 degrees) it Yes MINST1.3
should be documented and adjusted using AZ No
TRIM parameter. Any error can be adjusted
this way, but it may be preferred to re-orient
the mounting of the radome to minimize the
amount of mounting error. Is the mounting
error < +/- 5 degrees?
Will the radome mounting be re-oriented to Yes Re-orient and re-test
minimize the error? MINST1.1
No, use the MINST1.3
existing error
MINST1.3 Calculating AZ TRIM with mounting error
Note the sign (+/-) of the mounting error noted
in the previous step (all three positions will
have been off the same direction and the
same amount). CW values will be a positive
number and CCW values will be negative.
Annotate this mounting error in your manual
for future reference.
Note the magnetic variation for the present
geographic location of the boat.

- 4-69 -
MINST Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Add the Mounting Error and the Magnetic Return


Variation. Multiply the sum of these two
values by 10. Enter this calculated value into
the AZ TRIM parameter. When entering a
negative number, key the numeric value in
using the numeric keypad, then press the
N/S/E/W key (to make it a minus value), then
press the ENTER key. Be sure to save this
new parameter setting.
MINST1.4 Calculating AZ TRIM (NO mounting error)
Note the magnetic variation for the present
geographic location of the boat.
Multiply this value by 10. Enter this calculated Return
value into the AZ TRIM parameter. When
entering a negative number, key the numeric
value in using the numeric keypad, then press
the N/S/E/W key (to make it a minus value),
then press the ENTER key. Be sure to save
this new parameter setting.

- 4-70 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide ROM
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
ROM1.0 Range of Motion
Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove
radome top (or open the radome door):
Inspect inside of radome for signs that the Yes ROM1.3
dish or feed have been rubbing against the No
inside of the fiberglass radome. Are there
signs of rubbing?
ROM1.1 Rotate the pedestal through 540 degree range Yes
of azimuth motion. The antenna should rotate No Contact Sea Tel Service
freely and easily with light finger pressure. Do department
the azimuth bearings rotate freely with no
binding in Azimuth?
Assure that the cables in the base of the Yes Re-route or tie cables away
radome are not restricting or binding the free from pedestal and re-check.
rotation of the pedestal. Is there cable No
restriction noted?
Check the azimuth drive belt. Is the belt Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
broken or loose? and re-check.
No
ROM1.2 Rotate the pedestal through full range of Yes
elevation rotation. The antenna should rotate No Contact Sea Tel Service
freely and easily with light finger pressure. department
Does the elevation rotate freely with no
binding?
Assure that the cables on the pedestal are not Yes Re-position cables for
restricting or binding the free rotation of the sufficient slack and re-check.
equipment frame. Is there cable restriction No
noted?
Check the elevation drive belt. Is the belt Yes Replace or re-tension the belt
broken or loose? and re-check.
No
ROM1.3 Rotate the antenna in azimuth and elevation, Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
all around inside the radome to assure that department
the dish and/or feed do not rub at any No
hemispheric point against the inside surface
of the radome top. Is any rubbing noted?
ROM1.4 Tilt the antenna off-level (left/right) through the Yes
full range of cross level motion (+/- approx. 30 No Contact Sea Tel Service
degrees). . The antenna should rotate freely department
and easily with light finger pressure. Does
cross level rotate freely with no binding?
ROM1.5 Rotate the level cage through the full 90 Yes Return
degrees of rotation from CCW stop to CW No Contact Sea Tel Service
stop. The level cage antenna should rotate department
freely and easily with light finger pressure.
Attached cables should not cause the cage to
spring back more that a few degrees from
either stop when released. Does cross level
rotate freely with no binding?

- 4-71 -
SIG Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
SIG1.0 RF/IF Signal Distribution Problems
SIG1.1 TAC-92C setup
Use the Quick Start guide in section 2 to
assure that LAT, LON & SAT are set correctly.
Press sat to view the tracking receiver
selection and tuning frequency. This should
be set to INA #### or INB #### (lower left)
and the AGC (signal level value) should be
displayed in the lower right
If Gyrocompass input is being used, assure
that the TAC-92C heading is set to the
present true heading of the boat. If
Gyrocompass input is not being used, assure
that AZ Trim parameter is set to the correct
Magnetic Variation (+/- any mechanical
offset).
Assure system type set to 64, 68, 72 or 76.
Save parameters.
Target the desired satellite and allow the
system to search.
SIG1.2 Does the TAC-92C acquire & track any Yes SIG1.3
satellite (tracking LED ON)? No SIG1.6
SIG1.3 Tracking a satellite
SIG1.3.1 Is any programming viewable on any of the Yes SIG1.4
receivers (preview or subscription programs)? No SIG1.6
Assure that there is no blockage between the Yes Rotate/move boat to eliminate
antenna and the desired satellite causing blockage and re-test SIG1.3.1
signal loss. Is there blockage? No
Turn tracking OFF, select Elevation entry, Yes
press the UP arrow to step the antenna up No Satellite signal may be too
OFF satellite and note the AGC value. Press weak or LNB/LNB has failed.
the DOWN arrow to step the antenna down
onto satellite, turn tracking ON and allow
tracking to peak the satellite signal. Note the
peak AGC value. Is the difference in AGC
value between Peak and OFF satellite greater
that 200 counts?
Search for adjacent satellite at higher or lower
azimuth/elevation positions. Re-test SIG1.3.1
for each adjacent satellite found.
SIG1.4 Receiver programming present

- 4-72 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide SIG
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

At each receiver make the menu selections to


display the “signal meter”. If multiple
receivers are available, set one receiver to
“Transponder 2” and another to “Transponder
1” for a quick check of system performance.
Each receiver must be tested buy changing
transponders to display the signal level of
both even and odd transponders. This will
check both LNB inputs to the matrix switch.
If the system is fitted with a Linear feed,
optimize the polarization of the feed.
Is there signal level displayed on both the odd Yes SIG1.5
and even transponders on any one of the No
receivers?
Even or Odd transponder signal level only? SIG1.8
SIG1.5 IF OK
System is on the correct satellite and signal
level is available on a receiver. If the signal
level is too low the receiver(s) may not be
able to process the programming of some
channels.
If one receiver is operating all others should Yes
also operate. Connect the operating receiver No Replace matrix switch and re-
to each of the other receiver outputs on the check.
matrix switch. Does the receiver operate on
all other outputs?
If any other receiver does not operate, isolate
faulty coax(es) or receiver(s).
If subscription services are not available on Return
any of the receivers, Contact Sea Tel Service
department service provider for assistance.
SIG1.6 No satellite tracking
Disconnect coax from the TAC-92C and Yes
monitor DC voltage at the INA connector. No DC voltage failure,
Select INA and tune receiver to 11699, verify repair/replace TVRO tuner
that the DC voltage is 12-14VDC (14VDC and re-check
max). Tune receiver to 11700 and verify DC
voltage is 18-21VDC (21VDC max). Is the DC
voltage output OK?
SIG1.7 AGC checks
Note the unterminated AGC level. Is the AGC Yes TAC2.0
displayed 0000 or 4095? No
Connect a spare LNB to INA input connector Yes
to indicate amplification level. The AGC No AGC failure, repair/replace
should increase dramatically above the TVRO tuner and re-check
unterminated AGC value (>1000 counts).
Does the AGC increase dramatically?
Reconnect coaxes and re-tune receiver to
frequency for desired satellite

- 4-73 -
SIG Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
SIG1.8 Test the DC voltage on the coaxes at the Yes Replace LNB and re-test
LNB. One coax should 18-21VDC, the other SIG1.2
may be 12-14VDC (may be switching No Isolate faulty coax, matrix
between ~13VDC and ~18VDC at 5 sec rate). switch to restore DC voltage
Is the DC voltage good on both coaxes? to feed, then re-test SIG1.2

- 4-74 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide SPOOL
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
SPOOL1.0 Spooler Cable
Refer to Antenna System Schematic
SPOOL1.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Visually inspect
connections.
Inspect the 9-pin Circular jack in the Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
connector bracket mounted in the base-pan of pins as needed and re-check.
the radome. Are any pins bent, broken or No
pushed into the body of the connector?
Inspect P2 on the PCU. Are any pins bent, Yes Straighten, reseat or replace
broken or pushed into the body of the pins as needed, then next.
connector? No
Inspect P1 on the Aux Pol PCB. Are any Yes Repair and re-check.
wires in the IDC connector P1 broken or No
frayed?
SPOOL1.2 Continuity checks
Check continuity from P2 to the 9-pin Circular Yes
Jack or to the IDC connector P1: No Repair harness and re-check
P2-1 to P1-4 = Short
P2-2 to P1-2 = Short
P2-3 to P1-1 = Short
P2-4 to N/C
P2-5 to Circ-3 = Short
P2-6 to Circ-2 = Short
P2-7 to Circ-8 = Short
P2-8 to N/C
P2-9 to P1-3 = Short
P2-10 to P1-5 = Short
P2-11 to N/C
P2-12 to P1-6 = Short
P2-13 to Circ-1 = Short
P2-14 to Circ-5 = Short
P2-15 to Circ-9 = Short
P2-metal body to Circ-spade = Short
Is continuity good?

- 4-75 -
SPOOL Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Check continuity from P1-metal body (shield) Yes Repair and re-check
to P1 pins: No
P2-1 to Shield = Open
P2-2 to Shield = Open
P2-3 to Shield = Open
P2-4 to Shield = Open
P2-5 to Shield = Open
P2-6 to Shield = Open
P2-7 to Shield = Open
P2-8 to Shield = Open
P2-9 to Shield = Open
P2-10 to Shield = Open
P2-11 to Shield = Open
P2-12 to Shield = Open
P2-13 to Shield = Open
P2-14 to Shield = Open
P2-15 to Shield = Open
Is harness shorted?
Check continuity from P2 wires to each other:
P2-1 to P2-2 = Open
P2-1 to P2-3 = Open
P2-1 to P2-5 = Open
P2-1 to P2-6 = Open
P2-1 to P2-7 = Open
P2-1 to P2-9 = Open
P2-1 to P2-10 = Open
P2-1 to P2-12 = Open
P2-1 to P2-13 = Open
P2-1 to P2-14 = Open
P2-1 to P2-15 = Open
P2-2 to P2-3 = Open
P2-2 to P2-5 = Open
P2-2 to P2-6 = Open
P2-2 to P2-7 = Open
P2-2 to P2-9 = Open
P2-2 to P2-10 = Open
P2-2 to P2-12 = Open
P2-2 to P2-13 = Open
P2-2 to P2-14 = Open
P2-2 to P2-15 = Open
Continue checking continuity on next page

- 4-76 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide SPOOL
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Continue checking continuity from P2 wires to Yes Repair and re-check


each other: No
P2-3 to P2-5 = Open
P2-3 to P2-6 = Open
P2-3 to P2-7 = Open
P2-3 to P2-9 = Open
P2-3 to P2-10 = Open
P2-3 to P2-12 = Open
P2-3 to P2-13 = Open
P2-3 to P2-14 = Open
P2-3 to P2-15 = Open
P2-5 to P2-6 = Open
P2-5 to P2-7 = Open
P2-5 to P2-9 = Open
P2-5 to P2-10 = Open
P2-5 to P2-12 = Open
P2-5 to P2-13 = Open
P2-5 to P2-14 = Open
P2-5 to P2-15 = Open
P2-6 to P2-7 = Open
P2-6 to P2-9 = Open
P2-6 to P2-10 = Open
P2-6 to P2-12 = Open
P2-6 to P2-13 = Open
P2-6 to P2-14 = Open
P2-6 to P2-15 = Open
P2-7 to P2-9 = Open
P2-7 to P2-10 = Open
P2-7 to P2-12 = Open
P2-7 to P2-13 = Open
P2-7 to P2-14 = Open
P2-7 to P2-15 = Open
P2-9 to P2-10 = Open
P2-9 to P2-12 = Open
P2-9 to P2-13 = Open
P2-9 to P2-14 = Open
P2-9 to P2-15 = Open
Are any of these harness lines shorted?

- 4-77 -
SPOOL Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Continue checking continuity from P2 wires to


each other:
P2-10 to P2-12 = Open
P2-10 to P2-13 = Open
P2-10 to P2-14 = Open
P2-10 to P2-15 = Open
P2-12 to P2-13 = Open
P2-12 to P2-14 = Open
P2-12 to P2-15 = Open
P2-13 to P2-14 = Open
P2-13 to P2-15 = Open
P2-14 to P2-15 = Open
Are any of these harness lines shorted?
Re-connect the three connections Return

- 4-78 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide TAC
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
TAC1.0 TAC-92C Power Supply
The TAC-92C Power-up display should
initially show the TAC-92C software version,
then “Remote Initializing” for about 2 minutes.
After the antenna initializes the remote (PCU)
model & software version will be displayed.
The TAC-92C Power Supply provides the DC
voltages required for normal operation of its
circuit boards and the +28 VDC for the
Antenna.
TAC1.1 AC line input checks
The AC line input supply must be 110VAC +/-
10% or 220VAC +/- 10% true RMS. Pseudo
AC sources may not provide adequate
operation.
Check AC line input voltage at the outlet. Is Yes
the AC line input voltage OK at the outlet? No Correct line supply and re-
check
Is the AC voltage OK at ACU end of the AC Yes
cord? No Replace power cord and re-
check
Check the voltage select/fuse block Yes
orientation. Is the voltage select set for the No Extract and re-insert set for
correct line voltage? the correct voltage selection
TAC1.1.1 Remove the top cover of the TAC-92C. Turn Yes TAC1.1.2
TAC-92C power ON and measure AC voltage No
on the barrier strip near the power module. If
110VAC: terminal 1-2 = 110VAC and terminal
3-4 = 110VAC. If 220VAC: terminal 1-2 =
220VAC. Is the AC input voltage OK?
Turn power OFF, extract voltage select/fuse Yes
block. Test fuses. Fuses OK? No Replace fuse(s) then next
Re insert the voltage select/fuse block (in Yes
correct voltage selection). Unplug the power No Replace power module and
cord and measure continuity from each side of re-check
the plug receptacle to the terminal strip. Is
continuity of the power module OK?
Check continuity of transformer primary and Yes Re-test TAC1.1.1
wiring to transformer to isolate shorted No Repair and re-check
primary or wire shorted to ground. Is
continuity good?
TAC1.1.2 Measure the 40-44 VAC from “~” to “~” on the Yes TAC1.2
bridge rectifier. Is the AC voltage into the No
bridge rectifier OK?
Isolate faulty transformer secondary, harness
wires or bridge rectifier. Repair and re-test
TAC1.1.2
TAC1.2 DC supply checks

- 4-79 -
TAC Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
TAC1.2.1 Measure 26-28 VDC from J5-3 to ground. Is Yes TAC1.2.2
the +28 VDC OK?
No
Measure 26-28 VDC from the “+” side of the Yes Repair harness and re-test
bridge rectifier to ground. Is the +28 VDC TAC1.2.1
OK? No
Disconnect P5 from the main PCB. Is the +28 Yes Isolate short using TAC1.3
VDC OK now? No
Disconnect IDC plug from the DC-DC Yes Replace DC-DC converter
converter. Is the +28 VDC OK now? and re-check
No
Isolate faulty bridge rectifier, shorted filter
capacitor or wiring. Repair then re-test
TAC1.2.1.
TAC1.2.2 Measure 26-28 VDC from J5-4 to ground. Is Yes TAC1.2.3
the –28 VDC OK? No
Measure 26-28 VDC from the “-” side of the Yes Repair harness and re-test
bridge rectifier to ground. Is the –28 VDC TAC1.2.2
OK? No
Disconnect P5 from the main PCB. Is the –28 Yes Isolate short using TAC1.3
VDC OK now? No
Isolate faulty bridge rectifier, shorted filter
capacitor or wiring. Repair then re-test
TAC1.2.2.
TAC1.2.3 Measure the +12 VDC from J5-1 to ground. Yes TAC1.4
Is the +12 VDC OK? No
Disconnect P5 from the main PCB. Is the +12 Yes Isolate short using TAC1.3
VDC OK now? No
Measure the +12 VDC from DC-DC converter Yes Repair harness and re-test
pin 3 to ground. Is the +12 VDC OK? TAC1.2.3
No
Measure the +28 VDC from DC-DC converter Yes Replace DC-DC converter
pin 2 to ground. Is the +28 VDC OK? and re-test TAC1.2.3
No Repair harness and re-check
TAC1.3 Isolating Short to Main PCB
Turn TAC-92C power OFF. With P5
disconnected, inspect all other cable
connections on the Main PCB. Are all cables
connected correctly?
Are any connections frayed or broken?

If a NMEA input is connected to J-13 on the


rear of the TAC-92C, measure cable
continuity for shorted conductors. Repair
shorted connection if found then next.

- 4-80 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide TAC
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

If a NMEA/M&C input is connected to J-11 on


the rear of the TAC-92C, measure cable
continuity for shorted conductors. Repair
shorted connection if found then next.
Disconnect the Antenna Control Cable, refer
to ACC1.0 to check for shorted conductors.
Repair shorted connection if found, re-connect
Antenna Control Cable, then next.
TAC1.3.1 Continuity from J5-1 to ground should not be Yes
shorted. Is J5-1 shorted to ground? No TAC1.3.2
Disconnect P2 from the NMEA (J-13) PCB. Is Yes
J5-1 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA NMEA
PCB and re-check
Disconnect P2 from the NMEA/M&C (J-11) Yes
PCB. Is J5-1 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA
w/Conscan NMEA/M&C PCB
and re-check
Disconnect P1 from the TVRO Tuner. Is J5-1 Yes
still shorted? No
Disconnect P8 (display ribbon cable) from the Yes Replace Main PCB and re-
Main PCB. Is J5-1 still shorted? test TAC1.3.1
No
Isolate shorted cable, Front Panel
Interconnect PCB or Display Module.
Repair/replace faulty component, then re-test
TAC1.3.1
TAC1.3.2 Continuity from J5-3 to ground should not be Yes
shorted. Is J5-3 shorted to ground? No TAC1.3.3
Disconnect P2 from the NMEA (J-13) PCB. Is Yes
J5-3 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA NMEA
PCB and re-check
Disconnect P2 from the NMEA/M&C (J-11) Yes
PCB. Is J5-3 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA
w/Conscan NMEA/M&C PCB
and re-check
Disconnect P1 from the TVRO Tuner. Is J5-3 Yes
still shorted? No
Disconnect P8 (display ribbon cable) from the Yes Replace Main PCB and re-
Main PCB. Is J5-3 still shorted? test TAC1.3.2
No
Isolate shorted cable, Front Panel
Interconnect PCB or Display Module.
Repair/replace faulty component, then re-test
TAC1.3.2
TAC1.3.3 Continuity from J5-4 to ground should not be Yes
shorted. Is J5-4 shorted to ground? No TAC1.4

- 4-81 -
TAC Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Disconnect P2 from the NMEA (J-13) PCB. Is Yes


J5-4 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA NMEA
PCB and re-check
Disconnect P2 from the NMEA/M&C (J-11) Yes
PCB. Is J5-4 still shorted to ground? No Repair/replace ASPA
w/Conscan NMEA/M&C PCB
and re-check
Disconnect P1 from the TVRO Tuner. Is J5-4 Yes
still shorted? No
Disconnect P8 (display ribbon cable) from the Yes Replace Main PCB and re-
Main PCB. Is J5-4 still shorted? test TAC1.3.3
No
Isolate shorted cable, Front Panel
Interconnect PCB or Display Module.
Repair/replace faulty component, then re-test
TAC1.3.3
TAC1.4 Reconnect P5, turn TAC-92C power ON and Yes Return
check all displays and antenna control No Refer to appropriate
functions. Are all displays and functions OK? troubleshooting procedure or
module.

- 4-82 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide TILT
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
TILT1.0 Tilt Sensor
Tilt sensor offset errors or drive faults may
cause any of the following symptoms;
1. Level cage is not level within +/- 2 degrees
in Cross Level or Elevation.
2. Antenna slowly tilts in Cross Level,
Elevation or both (may slowly drive to either
stop in the affected axis).
Refer to the Antenna System Schematic
and the Pedestal Harness Schematic for all
voltage and continuity checks..

TILT1.1 Turn TAC-92C power OFF and remove


radome top (or open the radome door):

Yes Remove the PCB, trim leads


or replace spacers and re-
install. The tilt sensor may be
damaged TILT1.0
No

Fig 1 Level Platform PCB and connections


Inspect the tilt sensor PCB to assure that the
leads on the under-side of the PCB are not
shorted to the level cage enclosure (there
should be two plastic spacers between the
PCB and the aluminum). Are any leads
shorted?
Visually inspect the Tilt Sensor. It should be Yes
mounted level/flush to the PCB. Is the sensor No Replace
mounted correctly?
Visually inspect the Tilt Sensor. The fluid Yes
level (inside the enclosure) should be ¼ to 1/3 No Replace
full. Is the fluid level OK?
Inspect the two 5-pin IDC connectors (J16 has Yes
three wires and J15 has five wires). Assure
No Re-mate connection and re-
they are plugged in correctly (orientation of
check
the wires, no gaps between connectors or
exposed pins on the header). Are the
connectors plugged in correctly?
Are any wires in the IDC connectors (J15 & Yes Repair and re-check
J16) broken or frayed? No

- 4-83 -
TILT Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Rotate the level cage through the full 90 Yes


degrees of rotation from CCW stop to CW No Contact Sea Tel Service
stop. The level cage antenna should rotate department
freely and easily with light finger pressure.
Attached cables should not cause the cage to
spring back more that a few degrees from
either stop when released. Does cross level
rotate freely with no binding?

Is the 44 pin connector (P1) properly mated to Yes


the PCU? No Re-mate connection and re-
check
TILT1.2 Level check
Turn TAC-92C power ON. After Initialization
is complete turn tracking OFF.
TILT1.2.1 Place a bubble level on the top of the level Yes Return
cage to evaluate Cross Level and Elevation.
No, either not
Are both axes level and stable now?
level or not
stable.
Is either axis not stable (slowly tilting in case 2 Yes TILT1.3
above)?
No
Are both axes stable (not slowly tilting) but not Yes TILT1.5
level (case 1 above)?
No TILT1.2.1
TILT1.3 Continuity checks
Turn TAC-92C power OFF. Disconnect P1 Yes
from the PCU and P15 from the level platform
No Repair and re-check
PCB. Check continuity from:
P15-1 to P1-30 = Short
P15-2 to P1-15 = Short
P15-3 to P1-29 = Short
P15-4 to P1-14 = Short
P15-5 to P1-2 = Short
Is continuity good?
Check continuity from: Yes Repair and re-check
P15-1 to P15-2 = Open No
P15-1 to P15-3 = Open
P15-1 to P15-4 = Open
P15-1 to P15-5 = Open
P15-2 to P15-3 = Open
P15-2 to P15-4 = Open
P15-2 to P15-5 = Open
P15-3 to P15-4 = Open
P15-3 to P15-5 = Open
P15-4 to P15-5 = Open
Is the harness shorted?

- 4-84 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide TILT
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Were harness repairs accomplished in either Yes


of the two previous steps? No TILT1.4
Re-connect P1 & P15. Turn TAC-92C power Yes TILT1.4
ON. Is the antenna still slowly tilting in Cross No TILT1.2.1
Level, Elevation or both?
TILT1.4 Tilt Sensor drive voltage checks
The Tilt Sensor drive voltages are 0-5V
square wave signals that should measure
approximately 2.5VDC with a DC Voltmeter.

Check voltage from J15-5 to ground ~ 2.5 Yes


volt. Is the drive signal present? No Replace PCU and re-check.
Check voltages from: Yes
J15-1 to ground ~ 2.5 volts No Replace Level Sensor PCB
J15-2 to ground ~ 2.5 volts and re-check.
J15-3 to ground ~ 2.5 volts
J15-4 to ground ~ 2.5 volts
Are the drive signals present?
Is the antenna still slowly tilting in Cross Yes Replace PCU and re-check.
Level, Elevation or both? No TILT1.2.1
TILT1.5 Level Cage is near level and is not slowly
tilting -Tilt Sensor offset error
Press MODE until the TAC-92C displays
REMOTE TILT. Press the UP arrow to enter
test mode
Press the 4 and 6 keys to adjust Cross Level
axis of the Level Cage to within +/- 0.5
degrees.
Press the 2 and 8 keys to adjust Level
(Elevation) axis of the Level Cage to within +/-
0.5 degrees.
Press the DOWN arrow key to exit test mode. TILT1.2.1
Press the MODE key to display REMOTE
PARAMETERS. Press the UP arrow key
once then press the ENTER key to save the
new offset bias to the PCU.

- 4-85 -
UNWRAP Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
UNWRAP1.0 Unwrap LED is lit frequently or constantly
Antennas shipped after January 1997 do NOT Yes
have encoders. These (current) antennas No ENC1.0
keep track of the relative position of the
antenna by counting steps issued to the
azimuth motor. When the encoder in an older
system fails Sea Tel recommends installation
of new PCU to convert to “encoder-less”
operation rather than replacing the encoder.
Is this antenna “encoder-less”?
Loose belt tension, mechanical binding
(bearings or cable interference) or drag
(rubbing against the inside of the radome top)
during azimuth rotation will cause the drive
motor to “pulse slip”. When this happens the
PCU has issued a step to the azimuth motor,
and incremented/decremented the relative
position of the antenna, but the pedestal did
not actually rotate. The resultant azimuth and
heading displays will also be incorrect. As
these “missed” steps accumulate the displays
become increasingly more inaccurate and the
system will not unwrap at the correct positions
(5 degrees prior to the mechanical stops). It
may not be able to initialize correctly to begin
with and will not track or target satellites
correctly.
UNWRAP1.1 Assure that the antenna rotates freely (follow ROM1.0-1.3
corrective actions in ROM1.0-1.3 for any
problems found)
UNWRAP1.2 If the radome top has been removed, leave it Yes UNWRAP1.4
off, turn TAC-92C power ON and observe No
initialization and operation. Does the antenna
still frequently unwrap?
UNWRAP1.3 If the radome top was removed during the
previous step, reinstall it, turn TAC-92C power
ON and observe initialization and operation.
If the antenna does NOT frequently unwrap
with the radome top OFF, but DOES unwrap
frequently with the radome top ON, Contact
Sea Tel Service department Sea Tel service
department for instructions.
UNWRAP1.4 When the antenna drives to the stops when AZR1.0
“A” command is issued OR the antenna does
not stabilize in azimuth axis properly the
problem may be a rate sensor read error.

- 4-86 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide VIS
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to
VIS1.0 Visual Inspection
Setup – Assure that the TAC-92C power is
OFF
VIS1.1 Visually inspect the outside surface of the Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
radome top and base for cracks or other department to report findings.
damage. Is any damage found? No
VIS1.2 Remove the radome top or open the radome
hatch (on larger systems) to visually inspect
the inside surface of the radome top and the
antenna pedestal.
VIS1.2.1 Are there signs of water or condensation? Yes
No VIS1.2.2
th
Are the 1/8 inch weep holes in the radome Yes
base clogged? There are no Contact Sea Tel Service
weep holes department
No VIS1.2
Assure that the weep holes are open to allow
the radome to “breathe” and to allow any
standing water to leak out.
Dry condensation off inner surface of the
radome and off the pedestal, dish and feed
areas.
VIS1.2.2 Are there scratches in the inside surface of Yes
the radome top or white fiberglass power No VIS1.2.3
residue inside the radome?
This indicates that the dish or feed has been Contact Sea Tel Service
rubbing against the inside surface of the department to report findings.
radome. Carefully inspect the edge of the
dish, cables that wrap around the edge of the
dish and the feed and note any findings.
VIS1.2.3 Are there signs of loose hardware? Yes
No VIS1.2.4
Tighten all loose hardware. If hardware is
found in the base try to locate where it came
off of and re-attach it.
VIS1.2.4 Are there signs of rust or corrosion? Yes
No VIS1.2.5
Minor rust and corrosion can be cleaned off.
If necessary a light coating of CRC can be
applied to affected (mechanical) areas [do
NOT apply to electrical Contact Sea Tel
Service departments].
Major rust and corrosion should be thoroughly Contact Sea Tel Service
inspected and reported department to report findings.
VIS1.2.5 Are there signs of loose wiring connections? Yes
No VIS1.2.6

- 4-87 -
VIS Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
Step Check/Test to perform Results Action to take - step to
go to

Note: Extra harness cables that are not used


by your antenna are normally coiled up just
behind the dish. These should have a tie-
wrap to secure them and prevent them from
electrically shorting. These do not need to be
connected.
Older systems may have a loose encoder
cable (near the azimuth motor bracket) that
was disconnected and is no longer being
used.
Tighten/Re-connect any other loose
connections found
VIS1.2.6 Are there signs of any other wear or damage? Yes Contact Sea Tel Service
Note any damage found. department to report findings.
No Return

- 4-88 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide DRAWINGS

V Drawings

MODEL 2094 Stabilized Pedestal


Drawing Title
117136 Installation & Operation Manual (Consumer)
113629 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
113483 System Interconnect Diagram
115136 Model 2094 General Assembly
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 Axis
115161 Interface Harness Assembly
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
113478 Control Cable Assembly ACU to PCU
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU to PCU

MODEL 2494 Stabilized Pedestal


Drawing Title
117134 Installation & Operation Manual (Consumer)
116680 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
113483 System Interconnect Diagram
116086 Model 2494 General Assembly
117422 Model 2494 WeSat Upgrade Kit
118023 Antenna System Schematic
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 Axis
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
114724 Polang Aux Relay PCB Schematic
113478 Control Cable Assembly ACU to PCU
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU to PCU

MODEL 3294 Stabilized Pedestal


Drawing Title
117132 Installation & Operation Manual (Consumer)
114928 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
113483 System Interconnect Diagram
116163 System Block Diagram WeSat/DBS Dual Receive
116083 Model 3294 General Assembly
117694 Model 3294 General Assembly (48” Radome)

- 5-1 -
DRAWINGS Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
118024 Antenna System Schematic
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 Axis
114724 Polang Aux Relay PCB Schematic
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
115028 Conscan Motor Driver PCB Schematic
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU TO PCU
113480 RF Cable Assembly

MODEL 4094 Stabilized Pedestal


Drawing Title
117131 Installation & Operation Manual (Consumer)
116699 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
113483 System Interconnect Diagram
116163 System Block Diagram WeSat/DBS Dual Receive
116117 Model 4094 General Assembly (48” Radome)
116640 Model 4094 General Assembly (54” Radome)
118024 Antenna System Schematic
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 Axis
114724 Polang Aux Relay PCB Schematic
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
115028 Conscan Motor Driver PCB Schematic
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU TO PCU
113480 RF Cable Assembly

MODEL 4894 Stabilized Pedestal


Drawing Title
117120 Installation & Operation Manual (Consumer)
115611 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
115613 System Block Diagram 4894
116163 System Block Diagram WeSat/DBS Dual Receive
115464 General Assembly Model 4894 with Conscan
118024 Antenna System Schematic
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 axis
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
115326 Polang Relay w/ PS PCB Schematic
115028 Conscan Motor Driver PCB Schematic
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU TO PCU

- 5-2 -
Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide DRAWINGS
MODEL 6094 Stabilized Pedestal
Drawing Title
117521 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
117471 System Block Diagram 6094
117470 General Assembly Model 6094
117365 Antenna System Schematic
115203 Pedestal Harness Schematic 3 axis
115541 Interface Harness Assembly 6094
112479 PCU PCB Assembly
112455 PCU PCB Schematic
115325 Polang Relay w/ PS PCB Assembly
115326 Polang Relay w/ PS PCB Schematic
114787 Shielded Control Cable Assembly ACU TO PCU

Radomes for DBS Antenna Pedestals


Drawing Title
115137 24” Radome Assembly
113540 30” Radome Assembly
113627 30” Radome Installation Arrangement
114128 40” Radome Assembly
114610 40” Radome Installation Arrangement
114449 48” Radome Assembly
114120 48” Radome Installation Arrangement
109171 54” Radome Assembly
114594 54” Radome Installation Arrangement
115609 60” Radome Assembly
115612 60 Inch Radome Installation Arrangement
115414 72” Radome Assembly
115411 72” Radome Installation Arrangement

Model TAC-92C Tracking Antenna Controller


Drawing Title
113118 Installation & Operation Manual (Dealer)
113490 TAC-92C Table Top General Assembly
113486 TAC-92C Table Top Chassis Wiring Diagram
115755 TAC-92C Rackmount General Assembly
115959 TAC-92C Rackmount Chassis Wiring Diagram
113275 TAC-92C ACU PCB Assembly
112226 TAC-92C ACU PCB Schematic
112514 Front Panel Interconnect PCB Assembly
112512 Front Panel Interconnect PCB Schematic
112970 360:1 to SBS Converter PCB Assembly

- 5-3 -
DRAWINGS Series 94 Troubleshooting Guide
112969 360:1 to SBS Converter PCB Schematic
114836 12 Bit S/D Converter PCB Assembly
114648 12 Bit S/D Converter PCB Schematic
113037 AGC Receiver Interface PCB Assembly
113036 AGC Receiver Interface PCB Schematic
113747 Aux Serial Port Adapter PCB Assembly
113744 Aux Serial Port Adapter PCB Schematic
113888 Conscan/Aux Serial Port PCB Assembly
113744 Conscan/Aux Serial Port PCB Schematic
116676 ACU Terminal Mounting Strip Assembly
116685 ACU Terminal Mounting Strip Schematic
112791 Interface Cable Diagram GPS to ACU
114493 TAC-92/TAC-92C User Interface Description
116670 RS-232 Cable Assembly (PCDAC Cable)

- 5-4 -
MD
AEF
MAB
MF
MF
AEF

MD
MP
PGB

MAB
APJ

APJ

APJ

APJ

APJ

PGB

MAB

MAB

MAB

MAB

MAB

MAB

MAB

PGB
JHD
MP

MAB
MAB
MAB

MAB
MAB
MAB
MAB

MF

JHD
MF
MP
APJ
APJ
APJ
MAB
MAB
MAB

MAB

MAB

MAB
RMC

MF
MF
MF

JHD
JHD
JHD
MF
MP

MAB
DF

MAB

MP

MAB
MP

MAB
ITEM QTY SEATEL PART DRW DESCRIPTION VALUES REFERENCE / NOTES
NUMBER SZ

1 1 113746 B AUX SERIAL PORT ADAPT. PCB FAB


2 1 109089-41 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 100 ohm R14
3 1 109089-52 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 300 ohm R13
4 4 109089-57 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 470 ohm R2,R6,R7,R8
5 4 109089-65 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 1K R10,R12,R16,R17
6 3 109089-89 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 10K R1,R9,R15
7 1 109089-137 A RESISTOR, ¼ WATT, 5% 1 MEG R11
8
9 2 110784-103 A CAPACITOR, MONOLYTHIC .01uF C3 (J1-1 TO J1-2)
10 4 110784-104 A CAPACITOR, MONOLYTHIC .1uF C1,C2,C4,C6
11 1 109736-4 A CAPACITOR, ELECTROLYTIC 10uF C5
12 1 109736-6 A CAPACITOR, ELECTROLYTIC 100uF C7
13
14 1 109087 A DIODE, SWITCHING 1N914 D8
15 3 108837-4 A DIODE, LED RED D5,D6,D7
16 0 108837-3 A DIODE, LED GREEN D1,D2,D3,D4
17
18 1 110865-2 A TRANSISTOR, PNP 2N3906 Q1
19 1 109097-9 A I.C. SOCKET 40-PIN U1
20 1 112576-1 A CERAMIC RESONATOR 4.00 MHz X1
21
22 1 110792-2 A I.C., CMOS 6805 68HC70568P U1
23 1 109105-2 A I.C., OPTO-ISOLATOR 4N35 U2
24 1 109086-8 A I.C., VOLTAGE REGULATOR LM7805 U5
25
26
27
28 1 110935-15 A CONNECTOR, D-SUB., PC MOUNT DE-9P J1
29 1 111461-10 A HEADER, .100 FRICTION LOCK 10-PIN J2
30
31 1 109735-2 A HEADER, .100 SPACING 2 POS. D1
32 1 111461-3 A HEADER, .100 FRICTION LOCK 3 POS. JP3
33
34
35
36
37
38
39

SCALE: APPROVED BY: DRAWN BY: PGB


DATE: 3-9-95 REVISED: MF

AUX SERIAL PORT ADAPTER PCB ASSEMBLY


DRAWING NUMBER
SHT. 1 OF 1 113747-G
DOC. NO. 117030-A
APJ
MAB
MAB
MF

PGB
MF
PGB
MF
APJ
MAB
MAB
MAB
MF

PGB
MAB

AEF

MP
EJ

AEF
MAB
MF
MAB
AEF

EJ
EJ

AEF
EJ

AEF
MAB

RMC
MF
MAB

AEF

EJ
EJ

AEF
SEA TEL MODEL DAC-97
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION VERSION 3.01

1.0 COMMAND SUMMARY (2nd Serial port commands)

CONTROL CODES: FUNCTION


6 Azimuth CW one step (Not available in 3.00)
4 Azimuth CCW one step "
8 Elevation UP one step "
2 Elevation DOWN one step "
Aaaaa{} Move AZ to aaa.a deg. true or magnetic
Baaaa{} Set ships heading to aaa.a degrees
cnnnn{} Set MHz/CHA tuning to nnnn MHz
dnnnn{} Set KHz/CHB tuning to nnnn KHz/MHz
C Tracking (Step Track / Conscan) ON
D Tracking (Step Track / Conscan) OFF
Eeeee{} Move EL to eee.e degrees
gnnn{} Set 24v polang position to nnn
hnnn{} Set 5v PWM polang position to nnnn
Jrrrr{} Move azimuth to ship relative position
Nnnn{} Set step track integral (0-255)
nnnnn{} Set remote “N” parameters to Nnnnn
Onnn{} Output data to EME equipment
R Begin Spiral search
s Advance AGC input selection (Ext, ChA, CHB, IF)
Taaaa{} Move to satellite at aaa.a degrees
U Force cable unwrap
W Write parameters to NV RAM
Xnnn{} Set azimuth step track / conscan sensitivity to nnn steps (0-255)
Ynnn{} Set elevation step track / conscan sensitivity to nnn steps (0-255)
$mmmmm{} NMEA Latitude / Longitude input (GPGLL format)
^nnnn{} Send remote Utility command ^nnnn to PCU
esc Cancel Pending Command
! Enable NVRAM writes

MONITOR CODES FUNCTION TAC RESPONSE


H Relative Az,Ship Heading RrrrrHaaaa CR,LF,>
M Tracking Parameter Dump Xnnn Ynnn Nnnn CR,LF,>
P Az/EL Position EeeeeAaaaa CR,LF,>
S TAC Status Snn CR,LF,>
V Software Version TAC-92C VER N.NN CR,LF,>
q Read Tuning Frequencies Qnnnn nnnn s CR,LF,>
u Read Temperature, polang GnnnnUuuuu CR,LF,>
% Read Signal Strength Lnnnn CR,LF,>
@ Report Lat / Lon Position NeeeeWaaaa CR, LF, >
& Read/Clear Error Status NOT IMPLEMENTED
?a{} Remote Monitor Request remote response to “a” CR

ABBREVIATIONS:
eeee = Elevation angle 0000 to 0900.
aaaa = True/Magnetic Azimuth 0000 to 3599 range
rrrr = Relative azimuth 0950 to 6250 range
x = ASCII hex I/O data
nnnn = ASCII decimal number (0000-9999)
nnn = ASCII decimal number 0 to 255
uuu = ASCII decimal number 0 to 999
nn = System Status two ASCII words defined below:
e = Error status
{} = Carriage return

May 1998 Doc No. 114493-G


SEA TEL MODEL DAC-97
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION VERSION 3.01

2.0 CONTROL CODE DETAILS

For the following descriptions, one step equals 1/24 degree for standard pedestal.

6,4 Azimuth CW,CCW one step.


TAC Response: None

8,2 Elevation UP/DOWN one step.


TAC Response: None

Aaaaa{} Move AZ to aaa.a degrees magnetic. May cause antenna to move more than 180
degrees if shorter path will place antenna within 90 degrees of an end stop.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

Baaaa{} Set ships compass heading to aaa.a degrees. Sets Heading Valid flag (Bit 3, word 2).
Resets calculated azimuth position (P command) to ships heading + azimuth relative
position modulo 360.0 degrees. The ships heading is automatically updated by the
gyro compass inputs to the ACU. Not valid for 1:1 gyro compass interface.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

C Step track ON. Sets Steptrack ON status flag (bit 3 word 1). Enables step track
movements synchronized with "L" signal strength updates. Default state OFF.
TAC Response: None.

D Step track OFF. Clears Steptrack ON status flag (bit 3 word 1). Disables tracking.
TAC Response: None.

cnnnn{} Sets CHA tuning for IN A receiver or MHz tuning for IF receiver to nnnn MHz.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

dnnnn{} Sets CHB tuning for IN B receiver to nnnn MHz or KHz tuning for IF receiver to nnn
KHz.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

Eeeee{} Move EL to eee.e degrees.


TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

gnnn{} Set 24v Polang position to nnn. For 24v polang systems 30 to 210 corresponds to
approximately -90 to +90 degrees from vertical. For flip antenna systems, 000
corresponds to the flat plate array, 128 corresponds to the horn antenna.
TAC Response: CR,LF,> when command is accepted.

hnnn{} Set 5v PWM Polang position to nnn. For 5v polang systems 50 to 200 corresponds to
a probe angle of approximately -90 to +90 degrees from vertical.
TAC Response: CR,FL,> when command is accepted.

Jrrrr{} Move azimuth to ship relative position. Azimuth stabilization, Unwrap and and
Tracking mode remain active after a J command.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

May 1998 Doc No. 114493-G


SEA TEL MODEL DAC-97
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION VERSION 3.01

Nnnn{} Set number of signal strength updates to accumulate for each trial step for step track
operation. "N" should be set for a 2-6 second step track interval. Allowable range is 0
to 255. A setting of 0 disables step track and enables Conscan.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

nnnnn{} Sets Remote PCU parameters to Nnnnn. Used to set pedestal system type, adjust
individual axis gains and set reference offsets.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

Onnn{} Output data to EME equipment. Changes logic state of output lines DO0-DO3. Data is
sent as ASCII hexadecimal. Allowable range of nnn "0" to "7"
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

R Starts two axis spiral search pattern for satellite (SEARCH2). Sets Searching status
flag (bit 0, word 2) and Steptrack ON status flag (bit 3 word 1). Search pattern size and
increment is pre-set by the TAC-92 Setup parameters. Search is terminated by signal
level above threshold, end of search pattern or a new Az or EL position command. If
no signal is found then antenna is returned to its original azimuth and elevation
position.
TAC Response: None

s Advance AGC input selection by one. Selection of External, RF in A, RF in B or IF


receivers corresponds to an "s" value of 0, 1, 2 or 3 respectively. The current "s" value
is reported by the "q" Monitor Code.
TAC Response: none

W Write all setup parameters to NV RAM.


TAC Response: None

Xnnn{} Set azimuth step track size or conscan sensitivity to nnn steps. Allowable range is 0 to
255. The maximum conscan sensitivity setting is 0. Increasing the conscan setting by
one decreases the system sensitivity by a factor of 2.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

Ynnn{} Set elevation step track size or conscan sensitivity to nnn steps. Allowable range is 0 -
255 steps. Setting "Y" to zero disables elevation step track doubling the speed of the
azimuth step track. See Xnnn setting for conscan information.
TAC Response: CR,LF,">" when command is accepted.

$mmmmm{} NMEA Latitude / Longitude input. Sentence format as follows:


GPGLL,YYYY.YY,N,XXXXX.XX,W (,UTC optional) YYYY.YY = Latitude in Degrees,
Minutes, Decimal minutesN = North, S = South Latitude XXXXX.XX = Longitude in
Degrees, Minutes, Dec Minutes E = East, W = West Longitude

May 1998 Doc No. 114493-G


SEA TEL MODEL DAC-97
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION VERSION 3.01

3.0 MONITOR CODE DETAILS

H Relative AZ / Ships Heading position report. Reports simultaneous value of Antenna


Relative position and Ships heading position in tenths of degrees. Relative azimuth
range is 0950 to 6250. Ships heading range is 0000 3599.
TAC Response: "RrrrrHaaaa",CR,LF,">"

M Not implemented in this version.


Parameter Dump. Response is one line of ASCII characters representing the X,Y and
N step track parameters.
TAC Response: "Xnnn Ynnn Nnnn",CR,LF,">"

P Az/EL Position. Response is one line of ASCII characters representing the antenna
elevation and true azimuth position in tenths of a degree. Elevation range is 0000 to
0900. Azimuth range is 0000 to 3599.
TAC Response: "EeeeeAaaaa",CR,LF,">"

S TAC Status. Response is two ASCII characters representing the system status
according to the following table. This command can be issued at any time and is not
locked out by pending I/O commands.
TAC Response: "Snn",CR,LF,">" nn Status Words:

WORD1 WORD 2
Bit 0 = Remote Alarm Bit 0 Bit 0 = Searching
Bit 1 = Remote Alarm Bit 1 Bit 1 = Initializing
Bit 2 = Unwrap in progress Bit 2 = Error Detected
Bit 3 = Steptrack On Bit 3 = Heading Valid
Bit 4 = spare Bit 4 = Elevation targeting
Bit 5 = Auto Unwrap On Bit 5 = Azimuth targeting
Bit 6 = 1 Bit 6 = 1
Bit 7 = 0 Bit 7 = 0

V Software Version. Response is ASCII string defining software model and version
number.
TAC Response: "TAC-92 VER N.NN",CR,LF,">"

q Tuning Frequency. Response is Channel A tuning, Channel B tuning and receiver


selection. For IF receiver selection, response is MHz portion , KHz portion of the
tuning frequency and receiver selection. Receiver selection of External, RF in A, RF in
B or IF receivers corresponds to an "s" value of 0, 1, 2 or 3 respectively.
TAC Response: "Qnnnn nnnn s",CR,LF,">"

u Polang / AUX read. Response is polang position (nnnn) and Auxiliary A/D reading
(uuuu) from remote PCU. Reads polang pot for 24 volt polang systems and polang
PWM output for 5v systems. For flip antenna systems, 000 indicates primary antenna,
128 indicates secondary antenna. Aux A/D reading is 0000-4095 for 0 to 5v input. If
Aux Read is temperature, Degrees C = 2.0 + .032 x uuuu - 3271 / uuuu.
TAC Response: "GnnnnUuuuu",CR,LF,">"

% Signal Strength. Response is average signal strength over N sample intervals in ASCII
hex characters. Allowable range of response is 0000 to FFFF.
TAC Response: "Lssss",CR,LF,">"

May 1998 Doc No. 114493-G


SEA TEL MODEL DAC-97
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION VERSION 3.01

@ Latitude / Longitude Position Read. Reports North/South Latitude and East/West


Longitude read from GPS receiver in tenths of a degree.
TAC Response: “NeeeeWaaaa”,CR,LF,”>“

?a{} Request Remote Status. Sends the “a” Status Request command to the PCU and
echoes the PCU response less checksums. ?S{} gets PCU status, ?V{} gets PCU
Version Number.
TAC Response “PCU status response” + CR,LF,”>”.

4.0 GENERAL NOTES

The CR,LF,">" echo indicates that the TAC has accepted a command and is ready to process the next
command. Any additional commands will not be accepted until after the TAC echoes CR,LF,">".

The normal command latency for Monitor or Control commands is 25 mili Seconds.

Temperature in degrees C = 2.0 + .032 x uuuu - 3271 /uuuu.

May 1998 Doc No. 114493-G


MAB
AEF

CDC
AEF

MP
JP
RMC
MAB

MAB
MAB

MAB
MAB

MF
JP
JP
JP
MF
RMC
MF
MF
RMC
MF
MAB
AEF
MF

MF

RMC
MAB
MAB
MP
AEF
SAM
RMC
RMC
RMC
MF
MAB

MF

AEF

MAB
AEF

MAB
MAB
MAB
MAB
MF
SAM
MF
CDZ

CDZ

JP
MAB

RMC
MF
MF
MF
RMC

MF
AEF

MF

MF

SAM
SAM
MF
SAM
JP

JP
CDZ

CDZ
RMC
CDZ
MAB

RMC
MF
MF
MF
RMC
MF
RMC
AEF
AEF
MF

MF

MAB
SAM
SAM
MF
MAB

RMC
JP
RMC
RMC
MF
MF
MF
RMC
MF
AEF
MF

MF

SAM
SAM
MAB
MF
RMC
MF
MF
RMC
MF
MF
AEF

MF
MF

MAB
MAB
MF
MAB
JT
MBD

MF
AEF
MF
AEF

MAB
Sea Tel
Marine Stabilized Antenna Systems
Model 2494 Wesat Upgrade
Assembly Instructions

1. Remove existing Interface Harness Assembly. Begin by removing connections at


radome base connector bracket (see Detail ‘C’ of drawing). Disassemble 9-pin circular
connector and remove pins. Disconnect the (2) existing ‘F’ connectors. Remove the
spooler top, cut the cable tie that attaches the harness to the standoff, and carefully pull
the harness up through the spooler. Remove cable clamps (to be reused) along harness
routing until the reflector is reached. Disconnect harness at feed and pull wires through
the grommet in the reflector.

2. Replace existing feed assembly with new Wesat feed assembly (item 1). Remove feed
strut mounting clip hardware to disconnect feed and use existing hardware to mount the
Wesat feed assembly.

3. Install Geostationary LNA (item 2) on LNA mounting bracket (item 3) using (2) 6-32 x ½”
PH Pan Head Screws (item 7) as per drawing.

4. Remove the feed strut screw just underneath location of reflector braces and two of the
four antenna mounting screws on the elevation pan stiffener. Use this hardware to
fasten the LNA mounting bracket (item 3) to the back of the antenna.

5. Route the free end of the supplied Interface Harness Assembly through the top of the
spooler and terminate cables at connector bracket in the base of the radome (see Detail
‘C’ of drawing). Add ‘F’ bullet (item 6) at location shown on drawing for Wesat
connection. Insert pins into the 9-pin circular connector as shown in Detail ‘C’ of drawing
and secure to connector bracket. Fasten a cable tie around the harness and standoff at
the top of the spooler. Rotate the pedestal counterclockwise to the left stop and provide
adequate slack in the harness as shown in Detail ‘A’ of the drawing. Feed the harness
through the cable clamp located directly behind the opening in the spooler top (see
drawing) and fasten a cable tie on both sides of the cable clamp. Verify that the harness
is wound according to Detail ‘B’ of the drawing when the pedestal is rotated clockwise to
the right stop. Adjust the amount of slack in the harness at the cable clamp location as
necessary. Replace the spooler top and continue to route the harness as shown on the
drawing through all cable clamps until you reach the reflector. Route the (2) longest ‘F’
male cables through the grommet in the reflector and terminate at the feed. The
shortest ‘F’ male cable is to be terminated at the Geostationary LNA connector labeled
‘receiver’.

6. Install the N(male) to SMA(male) cable (item 4) from the Geostationary LNA (item 2)
connector labeled “antenna” to the Wesat dome located at the feed (item 1). Follow
cable routing as shown on the drawing included. Use the supplied cable ties (item 8) to
fasten the cable to the unit and remember to allow clearance for sufficient feed rotation.

7. Apply cable ties (item 8) as necessary to secure Interface Harness.

February 17, 1999 Document No. 117422-0


ITEM QTY SEATEL PART DRW DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS
NUMBER SZ

1 1 114978 D BASE SPINDLE ASSEMBLY


2 1 114979 C CROSS LEVEL / POST ASSEMBLY
3 1 114392 C LEVEL BEAM ASSEMBLY
4 1 114375 C ELEVATION PAN ASSEMBLY
5 1 114226-1 C LEVEL PLATFORM ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 4)
6 1 115414-4 C 72” RADOME ASSEMBLY
7 1 113873-1 B PCU ENCLOSURE ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 1)
8 1 114180-1 B TRAIN MOTOR ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 1)
9 1 117517 A C-BAND VERTEX FEED ASSEMBLY (C.F.E.)
10 1 110486-3 B 1.5M – 5FT REFLECTOR MACHINING
11 1 117560-1 B LNB MOUNTING PLATE ASSEMBLY (-1 ASS’Y ONLY)
11 1 117560-2 B LNB MOUNTING PLATE ASSEMBLY (-2 ASS’Y ONLY)
12 1 114540 B PRO-II C-BAND DIGI-READY LNB (REF. ITEM 11)
13 1 110256-2 B C-BAND BANDPASS FILTER (REF. ITEM 11)
14 1 117343-1 A WGA-229 WAVEGUIDE ADAPTER (REF. ITEM 11)
15 1 114450-2 A RF COAX. SWITCH (REF. ITEM 11)(-2 ASS’Y ONLY)
16 1 117570-1 B REFLECTOR BRACE (LEFT)
17 1 117570-2 B REFLECTOR BRACE (RIGHT)
18 1 113605 A REFLECTOR CROSS BRACE
19 34 109270 A REFLECTOR CLIP WASHER
20 2 112467-8 A STANDOFF (.25” O.D. x #6 x .18” L.)
21 1 115325-1 B POL. AUX. RELAY W/PS PCB ASS’Y
22 4 108885-27 A EQUIPMENT STANDOFF (.50” O.D. x .26” I.D. x .50” L.)
23 2 SCREW, PH PHD 6-32 x 3/8”, S.S.
24 2 SCREW, PH PHD 6-32 x ½”, S.S.
25 4 WASHER, FLAT No. 6, S.S.
26 2 NUT, HX 6-32, S.S.
27
28 1 SCREW, PH PHD 10-32 x 1-1/8”, S.S.
29 8 SCREW, PH PHD 10-32 x 5/8”, S.S.
30 8 SCREW, PH FLAT HD 10-32 x ¾”, S.S.
31 6 SCREW, PH PHD 10-32 x 7/8”, S.S.
32 33 WASHER, FLAT No. 10, S.S.
33 17 NUT, HX 10-32, S.S.
34 4 SCREW, HX HD ¼-20 x 5/8”, S.S.
35 8 WASHER, FLAT ¼”, S.S.
36 4 NUT, HX ¼”, S.S.
37 4 SCREW, HX HD 5/8-11 x 1-3/4”, S.S.
38 8 WASHER, FLAT 5/8”, S.S.

Sea Tel
-1 W/O COAX SWITCH
-2 W/COAX SWITCH
SCALE: NONE APPROVED BY: DRAWN BY: MAB
DATE: 3-31-99 REVISED: MAB

GENERAL ASSEMBLY – MODEL 6094-1, -2


DRAWING NUMBER
SHT. 1 OF 2 117470-A
DOC. NO. 117030-A
ITEM QTY SEATEL PART DRW DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS
NUMBER SZ

39 4 WASHER, LOCK 5/8”, S.S.


40 4 NUT, HX 5/8”, S.S.
41 3 114662-318 A STANDOFF (.38” O.D. x .20” I.D. x .50” L.)
42 1 117766 B ELEVATION COUNTER WEIGHT ASS’Y (NOT SHOWN)
43 1 115541-3 C INTERFACE HARNESS ASSEMBLY (NOT SHOWN)
44 1 115868-4 C PEDESTAL HARNESS ASSEMBLY (NOT SHOWN)
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
DRAWING NUMBER
MODEL: 6094-1, -2 SHT. 2
117470-A
ITEM QTY SEATEL PART DRW DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS
NUMBER SZ

1 1 117470-1 D GENERAL ASSEMBLY – MODEL 6094-1 (-1 ASS’Y ONLY)


1 1 117470-2 D GENERAL ASSEMBLY – MODEL 6094-2 (-2 ASS’Y ONLY)
2 1 117517 A C-BAND VERTEX FEED ASSEMBLY (C.F.E.)(REF. ITEM 1)
3 1 110486-3 A 1.5M REFLECTOR MACHINING (REF. ITEM 1)
4 1 114450-2 A RF COAX. SWITCH (REF. ITEMS 1 & 21)(-2 ASS’Y ONLY)
5 1 113873-1 B PCU ENCLOSURE ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 1)
6 1 115325-1 B POLANG AUX. RELAY W/PS PCB ASS’Y (REF. ITEM 1)
7 1 117343-1 C WR-229 COAX ADAPTER (REF. ITEMS 1 & 21)
8 1 110256-2 B C-BAND BANDPASS FILTER (REF. ITEMS 1 & 21)
9 1 114540 B C-BAND DIGITAL LNB (REF. ITEMS 1 & 21)
10 1 115541-3 C INTERFACE HARNESS ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 1)
11 1 115868-4 C PEDESTAL HARNESS ASSEMBLY (REF. ITEM 1)
12 1 115755-1 D TAC-92C RACKMOUNT GENERAL ASS’Y
13 1 116676 B TERMINAL MOUNTING STRIP ASS’Y
14 1 110293-4 A 4-WAY COAX SPLITTER
15 1 113480-1 A RF CABLE ASSEMBLY (50 ft.)
16 1 114787 B SHIELDED CONTROL CABLE ASS’Y
17 2 109391 A ‘F’ BULLET
18 1 115198 A CONNECTOR BRACKET
19 1 116670 B RS-232 CABLE ASSEMBLY (REF. W/O)
20 1 113189-1 B GPS ANTENNA INSTALLATION KIT (REF. W/O)
21 1 117560-1 B LNB MOUNTING PLATE ASSEMBLY (-1 ASS’Y ONLY)
21 1 117560-2 B LNB MOUNTING PLATE ASSEMBLY (-2 ASS’Y ONLY)
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37

Sea Tel
-1 W/O COAX SWITCH
-2 W/ COAX SWITCH
SCALE: APPROVED BY: DRAWN BY: MAB
DATE: 3-16-99 REVISED: MAB

SYSTEM BLOCK DIAGRAM


DRAWING NUMBER
MODEL: 6094-1, -2 SHT. 1 OF 1 117471-A
DOC. NO. 117030-A
DF
MF
DF
MF
MF
RMC

MF
AEF
MF

MF

DF
DF
MF

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