AFRTS Defense Media Center Satellite Handbook

Defense Media Center Satellite Handbook V.3.26 

AFRTS ® 

Defense Media Center 

Satellite Handbook 

Version 3.26 

Published May 2010 

24-hour a day decoder and dish setup hotline 

Commercial (951) 413-2339, or DSN (312) 348-1339 

or email technologist@dma.mil 

AFRTS and the AFRTS logos are registered trademarks.


CHAPTER 1 : POLICY AND PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING AFRTS ® 

SATELLITE SERVICE. 1-1 

WHO IS AFRTS FOR AND WHAT IS ITS MISSION? 1-1 

HOW DO I REQUEST AFRTS ® SERVICE? 1-2 

WHAT DO I DO ONCE I HAVE THE DECODER? 1-2 

WHAT CAN THE ORGANIZATION DO IF THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH DOD PEOPLE TO JUSTIFY 

A FREE AFRTS ® DECODER OR THE FREE DECODER WILL NOT SERVE EVERYONE? 1-3 

CAN I LEASE OR RENT A DECODER INSTEAD OF BUYING ONE? 1-4 

CAN I BUY MY OWN DECODER? 1-4 

REAUTHORIZATION OF DECODERS 1-4 

RESALE OF DECODER 

CHAPTER 2 : ACTIVATION PROCEDURES AND DATABASE 

1-4 

MANAGEMENT. 2-5 

HOW DO I GET THE DECODER AUTHORIZED? 2-5 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET THE DECODER TURNED ON? 2-6 

HOW DO YOU KEEP TRACK OF ALL THESE DECODERS? 2-6 

WHAT DO I DO IF OR WHEN MY AUTHORIZATION PERIOD IS UP? 

WHAT ARE THE DIRECT EXCHANGE (DX) PROCEDURES FOR AFRTS 

2-6 

® POWERVU 

EQUIPMENT? 

WHAT ARE THE REPAIR PROCEDURES FOR CUSTOMER PURCHASED POWERVU 

2-6 

INTEGRATED RECEIVER DECODER (IRD) EQUIPMENT? 2-9 

WHAT ARE THE REPAIR PROCEDURES FOR CUSTOMER LEASED POWERVU INTEGRATED 

RECEIVER DECODER (IRD) EQUIPMENT? 

WHAT ARE THE REPAIR PROCEDURES FOR DECODERS FROM NAVY SHIPS AND FLEET 

2-9 

SUPPORT DETACHMENTS? 2-10 

CHAPTER 3 : AFRTS ® SATELLITE NETWORKS 3-1 

INTRODUCTION TO POWERVU 3-1 

SATNET C-BAND SATELLITE AND JAPAN/KOREA KU-BAND SERVICES 3-5 

SATNET CHANNEL GUIDE 3-6 

SATNET EUROPEAN KU-BAND SATELLITE SERVICES 3-8 

AFN EUROPE CHANNEL GUIDE 3-8 

AFRTS ® DIRECT-TO-SAILOR SATELLITE NETWORK (DTS) 3-9 

DTS SATELLITE NETWORK ARCHITECTURE 3-10 

DTS CHANNEL GUIDE 3-11 

THE PENTAGON CHANNEL NETWORK ARCHITECTURE 3-13 

THE PENTAGON CHANNEL SATELLITE SETTINGS 3-13 

CHAPTER 4 : DIGITAL SATELLITE DOWNLINK RECEPTION 4-1 

TYPICAL SATELLITE TVRO EQUIPMENT CONFIGURATION 4-1 

GENERAL SATELLITE CONCEPTS 4-1 

THE RECEIVE SITE 4-2 

RADIO WAVES AND COMMUNICATIONS 4-2 

RADIO WAVES 4-2


Signal Frequency 4-2 

Polarization 4-2 

ANTENNA REFLECTOR 4-3 

AMPLIFIER “LNA/B/C/F” 4-4 

LNB PERFORMANCE 4-6 

FEEDHORN ASSEMBLY 4-6 

FEEDHORN ADJUSTMENTS 4-7 

POLARIZATION 4-8 

QUALIFICATION OF SATELLITE TERMINALS FOR DIGITAL RECEPTION 4-8 

EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR SATNET C-BAND RECEPTION 4-8 

EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR SATNET KU-BAND RECEPTION 4-9 

EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR DIRECT TO SAILOR (DTS) C-BAND RECEPTION 4-9 

SOME NEW TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW AND UNDERSTAND 4-10 

SUN OUTAGES 4-11 

RF INTERFERENCE IN DIGITAL NETWORKS 4-11 

CURRENT TECHNOLOGY 4-13 

ERROR CORRECTION 4-13 

REACQUISITION 4-14 

CONCEALMENT 4-14 

SOURCES OF INTERFERENCE 4-14 

Terrestrial Microwave Interference 4-14 

Impulse and Ignition Noise 4-15 

Aircraft Radar Altimeters/Airport Ground Radar 4-15 

Ship-board Radar 4-16 

Commercial Microwave Ovens 4-16 

Walkie-Talkies 4-16 

Cell Phones 4-16 

Random RFI (Fluorescent and Sodium Vapor Lamps, Lightning) 4-16 

PROTECTION FROM INTERFERENCE 4-17 

Selecting a site 4-17 

Saturation and Compression 4-17 

Out-of-band Filtering 4-17 

RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) Fencing 4-17 

Earth Berms 4-18 

SUMMARY 

CHAPTER 5 PROCEDURES FOR FINDING THE AFRTS 

4-18 

® DIGITAL 

SATELLITE SIGNALS 5-1 

Step One: IRD Authorization 5-1 

Step Two: Finding a Clear line of Sight 5-1 

Step Three: Connecting the Antenna and Receiver 5-2 

Step Four: Locating the Satellite 5-5 

Step Five: Peaking the Antenna 5-6 

Step Six: Troubleshooting 5-7 

DECODER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA POWERVU (MODEL 9223) 5-9 

DECODER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA POWERVU (MODEL 9234) 5-11


DECODER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA POWERVU (MODEL 9834 AND 

9835) 5-15 

REMOTE CONTROL PROBLEMS 5-21 

RECEIVER PROBLEMS 5-21 

CHAPTER 6 : DISTRIBUTION OF MULTIPLE VIDEO AND AUDIO SERVICES 

6-22 

I. DOD CATV PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND TESTING PROCEDURES 6-22 

a. Assumptions regarding DOD Cable Systems: 6-22 

b. System Characteristics: 6-23 

II. DISCUSSION 6-23 

a. Authorization 6-24 

b. Signal Leakage 6-24 

c. Signal Quality 6-24 

d. System Constraints 6-25 

III. TESTING PROCEDURES. 6-26 

APPLICABILITY OF TESTS 6-26 

SCHEDULING OF TESTS 6-27 

DIGITAL TELEVISION 6-27 

IV. OUT OF CONUS CATV 6-28 

V. COMMERCIAL CATV. 6-28 

CHAPTER 7 : RADIO AND TELEVISION CUEING 7-29 

AFN BROADCAST CENTER 7-29 

Normal Programming: 7-29 

Live and Quick Turn-Around Programming: 7-29 

ENCODER INSTALLATION AND OPERATION 7-2 

DECODER INSTALLATION AND OPERATION 7-5 

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS 7-6 

1644 RELAY CARD 7-7 

CHAPTER 8 : DATACASTING 8-1 

TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION 8-1 

AFRTS ® INTERNATIONAL POWERVU DATACASTING CAPABILITIES 8-1 

64 KBPS HIGH SPEED DATA CHANNEL 8-3 

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 8-4 

MULTIPLEXER CONFIGURATION 8-5 

CBD (HARDWARE,CTS/RTS) FLOW 8-6 

SR-8 COMMANDS 8-13 

SR-8 SETUP 8-13 

1.544 MBPS HIGH SPEED DATA CHANNEL 8-14 

Configuration 8-14 

Cabling and Pin outs 8-15 

DATACASTING ON DTS (128 KBPS HIGH SPEED DATA CHANNEL) 8-15 

CONFIGURATION 8-16 

CABLING AND PIN OUTS 8-17 

1.544 MBPS AND 128 KBPS HIGH SPEED DATA TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 8-17


IRD CONTROL AND POLLING FROM A REMOTE LOCATION 8-18 

CHAPTER 9 : NEWSBOSS NETWORK ALERT SYSTEM (NAS) 9-1 

WHAT IS NEWSBOSS? 9-1 

WHAT IS NAS? 9-1 

CHAPTER 10 : CLOSED CAPTION SERVICE 

CHAPTER 11 : AFRTS 

10-1 

® DECODER OPERATING SYSTEM DOWNLOAD 

PROCEDURES 11-1 

9234 DECODERS 11-1 



HOW CAN I TELL IF I NEED AN OS DOWNLOAD? 11-2 

HOW TO READ POWERVU DECODER TIDS 11-3 

APPENDIXES 1 

APPENDIX A: VIRTUAL CHANNEL LISTINGS 2 

AFN-BC (California) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

AFNE (Europe) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

AFN (Pacific) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

DTS (Navy) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

AFN POWERVU SERVICES DETAIL ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 

1. AFN-BC (California) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

2. AFNE (Europe) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

3. AFN (Pacific) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

4. DTS (Navy) Error! Bookmark not defined. 

AFNE (Europe) Channel Guide 56 

APPENDIX B: RF LINK BUDGETS 57 

Typical SATNET C-Band Link Budget 58 

Typical SATNET Ku-Band Link Budget 59 

DTS Link Calculations 60 

APPENDIX C: DISH POINTING DATA (USING MAGNETIC NORTH) AUG 2007 11 

APPENDIX D AFRTS SATELLITE INFORMATION 19 

AFRTS SatNet Service 19 

NewSkies NSS-9 (C-band) (dual transponders) 19 

NewSkies NSS-6 (Ku-band) (dual transponders) 19 

INTELSAT 10-02 (South America, Africa, and Atlantic Ocean Region) 19 

IntelSat Galaxy 28 (United States/Central America/Caribbean) 20 

HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 (Europe) 20 

Direct To Sailor (DTS) Service 21 

INTELSAT 701 (Pacific Ocean) 21 

INTELSAT 906 (Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf) 21 

New Skies NSS-7 (Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea) 21 

IntelSat 707 C Band Domestic to Clarksburg 22 

AMC-1 Ku Band (The Pentagon Channel) 22 

APPENDIX E: PV CONNECT DECODER AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURES 23


INDEX 1


Chapter 1 : Policy and Procedures for Requesting AFRTS ® 

Satellite Service. 

Who is AFRTS for and what is its mission? 

The American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) is an activity of the 

Internal Communications (IC) under the direction of the Assistant Secretary of 

Defense for Public Affairs (ASD/PA). The AFRTS mission is to provide radio and 

television information and entertainment programming to Department of Defense 

(DoD) personnel and their family members stationed overseas or serving at sea 

where English language broadcast service is unavailable or inadequate. The 

programs are representative of those seen and heard in the United States, and 

are provided without censorship, propagandizing or manipulation. 

AFRTS is strictly non-commercial and is thus obligated to remove commercial 

announcements appearing in its programming sources. These commercials are 

replaced with spot announcements that communicate Department of Defense 

(DoD) internal information themes and public service messages of interest to 

DoD personnel and their family members. Since dissemination of internal and 

command information is the primary AFRTS mission, information and 

entertainment programs provided by AFRTS serve as excellent vehicles for this 

purpose. 

AFRTS acquires the right to use television programming from many sources at 

extremely low cost. Most often, the cost to the government is no more than the 

program owner’s administrative cost. Once acquired, we distribute the programs 

from the AFRTS Defense Media Center (formerly the Broadcast Center), with 

assurances to the program owners that we will take all reasonable actions to limit 

our distribution to Department of Defense personnel. 

The AFRTS authorized audience is Department of Defense personnel and their 

families living and working overseas and privilege-holding employees of 

companies working DoD contracts. Since 1942, AFRTS has provided news, 

sports, information, and entertainment to this audience. Today, we operate in 

nearly every country around the world, have over 1,000 outlets around the world 

and are on Navy ships at sea, serving close to a million U.S. military personnel 

and their families. We must do everything in our power to ensure the continued 

availability of these programs for our service men and women. The loss of this 

programming would have a serious, negative effect on the quality of life for the 

soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines serving around the world who have 

become accustomed to this “touch of home.” That is why we go to such great 

lengths to protect the copyrights of programs. The AFRTS audience also bears 

this responsibility and must protect programming from misuse. 

1-1


How do I request AFRTS ® service? 

AFRTS equipment can be obtained two ways, by direct purchase or temporary loan. Both 

options require submission of a completed “Request for Service” form to AFRTS. 

Access to AFRTS programming is restricted by DoD regulations. 

You are eligible to receive AFRTS programming if you meet the following criteria. 

� Active Duty US military stationed or deployed overseas and their accompanying family 

members. 

� DoD civilians assigned or deployed overseas and their accompanying family members. 

� Direct Hire US Government State Department employees assigned overseas. 

� DoD Direct Hire Contractors who are US citizens and directly sponsored by the host 

command. 

� Retired US military members may purchase decoders from military exchanges or directly 

from AFRTS. 

DoD Contractors must meet additional eligibility requirements 

� Command supported DoD contractors overseas must have an official identification card 

issued by the DoD, Combatant Command or Major Command. 

� This ID must be presented at any military exchange in order to purchase a decoder. 

� If purchasing a decoder through the mail, the supported command must fax or scan and 

email a copy of the ID to DSN 312-328-0624 (fax) or decoders@dma.mil. 

� Military commands may purchase decoders for use by authorized contractors, but the 

decoders must be registered to the command, not individual contractors. 

Obtaining Loaned AFRTS equipment 

Loaned AFRTS equipment must be set up in an area where the majority of the troops assigned 

will have access to the programming. Systems set up in morale tents, mess tents or similar areas 

meet this requirement. AFRTS satellite signal decoders, satellite dishes, low noise block 

converter (LNB’s), line amplifiers and other equipment, excluding cable, that is released to a unit 

on a temporary loan must be returned to AFRTS upon completion of the deployment. The unit 

that receives AFRTS equipment is fiscally responsible for the gear until it is returned to AFRTS. 

AFRTS signal decoders are individually addressable and controllable, just like the commercial 

satellite providers Direct TV or Dish Network in the United States. This means that AFRTS can 

“turn off” decoders that are missing, stolen or still activated after the date the receiving unit listed 

as their rotation date from the deployed location. It is critical each unit maintain frequent contact 

with the Air Force Broadcasting Service and update changes in location, rotation date or 

personnel responsible for AFRTS equipment in order to prevent decoder deactivation. 

Direct purchase of AFRTS equipment 

Units that deploy often are highly encouraged to use unit funds to purchase the equipment 

needed to obtain the AFRTS signal. Purchasing the equipment will allow your unit near instant 

access to AFRTS programming at any deployed location practically anywhere on the planet 

outside the United States. Since you control the equipment, you won’t have to wait for it to be 

shipped to you or run the risk of it getting lost in the supply system. 

1-2


Units can procure the Scientific Atlanta Model D9865 AFRTS integrated receiver/decoder (IRD) 

through the Television-Audio Support Activity (T-ASA) site 

http://tasa.dodmedia.osd.mil/log/index.htm. A help file is available on the "requisition on-line 

processing" page. Several distributors offer dishes that will work with our satellite network or you 

can purchase from T-ASA. 

What do I do once I have the decoder? 

Once the decoder or decoders have arrived, please refer to the setup directions 

for your area of the world in Chapter 4 of this booklet. Once the satellite dish has 

been installed and the decoder is receiving a locked+sig indication the decoder 

can then be authorized for AFRTS programming reception. 

To request a decoder authorization customers should log on to the PowerVu 

Connect site at https://pvconnect.net. Select “authorize decoders. Customers 

should then complete the decoder authorization request form by filling in the 

decoders TID and UA number (Tracking ID and User Address) and other 

requested information. The decoder request information will be reviewed by 

AFRTS-HQ. Leased customer request authorizations must originate from the 

military exchange or store that leases the decoder. Individual requests for leased 

decoder authorization will be rejected. Approved authorizations should occur 

within 24 hours upon receipt of the request. 

If the Internet and e-mail access are not available to the requestor (remote 

locations), customers who purchased a decoder can contact the Defense Media 

Center directly at commercial (951) 413-2339, or DSN (312) 348-1339, or 

AFRTS-HQ at commercial (703) 428-0616, or DSN (312) 328-0616. IRD's will be 

entered manually into the https://pvconnect.net web site by “on-call” 

technologists receiving this information. Callers will need to have the Tracking 

Identification (TID) number and model number of each decoder available to 

provide to the technologist in order to activate the decoders. See appendix E for 

details on the web procedure. 

What can the organization do if there are not enough DoD 

people to justify a free AFRTS ® decoder or the free decoder will 

not serve everyone? 

As a general rule, only one decoder or set of decoders (if cabled) is provided per 

location. If additional decoders are desired, they may be purchased by the 

organization (military unit or embassy), with HQ AFRTS approval, at an 

approximate cost of $276.00 each at military exchanges or $399 directly from 

Scientific Atlanta, depending on the type of decoder, plus shipping. Ancillary 

equipment such as the satellite dish, LNB, feedhorn and connecting cable can 

also be purchased via the Defense Media Center (DMC). The telephone number 

at DMC is (951) 413-2429. 

Contact HQ AFRTS Operations at DSN (312) 328-0616 or commercial (703) 

428-0290/0616 or by email: decoders@hq.afis.osd.mil to request an organization 

purchase of decoders. Once approved, AFRTS will provide a letter to DMC 

authorizing the sale. 

1-3


Can I lease or rent a decoder instead of buying one? 

AFES and NEXCOM lease the Scientific Atlanta PowerVu decoders for 

approximately $25 a month in both the European and Japan/Korea theaters. The 

cost to buy the decoder and dish is several hundred dollars and this option is 

only available in Europe. Check with your local European exchange for current 

system pricing. The dish requires installation and a length of coaxial cable to 

connect the dish to the satellite receiver. 

Can I buy my own decoder? 

AFRTS cannot sell decoders to private individuals. Although HQ AFRTS 

approves the sale of decoders to commands AAFES or NEXCOM now sells and 

leases the equipment to authorize individuals. Decoders bought though Internet 

web sites such as “Ebay.com” will not work on our system and will not be 

authorized to receive programming. 

For updates on the leasing process contact HQ AFRTS Operations at DSN 

(312) 328-0616 or commercial 703-428-0616, FAX commercial (001) (703) 428- 

0624, or DSN (312) 328-0624, or email: afrtops1@hq.afis.osd.mil. 

Reauthorization of decoders 

Authorizations expire three years after the date of the initial authorization 

request. If you are remaining overseas more than three years, you must resubmit 

the authorization request to https://pvconnect.net/. To avoid a break in service, 

submit your reauthorization request at least a month before your current 

authorization expires. 

If your authorization expires you will be automatically switched to a channel 

telling you to update your registration. Then you must log on to 

www.pvconnect.net and update your authorization information. Leased decoder 

authorization updates must originate from the military exchange or store that 

leases the decoder. Individual requests for leased decoder authorization updates 

will be rejected. Approved authorizations should occur within 24 hours upon 

receipt of the request. 

Resale of decoder 

You may only sell a decoder to another authorized audience member. Members 

of the authorized audience include: 

o U.S. active duty military service members and their family members. 

o U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) or Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) 

civilians and their family members. 

o U.S. military retirees and their family members. 

In cases of resale, the new owner must immediately log onto www.pvconnect.net 

and re-register the decoder. The seller must inform us by email at 

decoders@hq.afis.osd.mil that the decoder has been sold to another person. 

1-4


Chapter 2 : Activation Procedures and Database Management. 

Why do I need authorization? 

The American Forces Radio and TV Service (AFRTS) must ensure that only 

authorized audience members own or lease an AFRTS PowerVu decoder. 

According to Department of Defense regulations, only the following individuals 

are eligible to receive AFRTS: Active duty US military service members and DoD 

civilians assigned or deployed overseas, and their accompanying family 

members; Direct Hire US Government State Department Employees assigned 

overseas, DoD Direct Hire Contractors who are US citizens and specifically 

authorized by the host command. Additionally, retired military may purchase 

decoders at exchanges selling them or directly from Scientific Atlanta with 

permission from HQ AFRTS. The American Forces Radio and Television 

Service (AFRTS) acquire the rights for the programming you see via an AFRTS 

PowerVu decoder. Program owners give AFRTS the rights to their programming 

at little or no cost, as a public service to U.S. military members stationed 

overseas. This programming is worth a great deal of money and commercial 

networks commonly pay millions of dollars for individual episodes of popular 

programs. To ensure that it continues to receive programming at little or no cost, 

AFRTS must promise that only the authorized audience will be able to view its 

services. Your Power-Vu decoder is one part of an elaborate security system that 

protects AFRTS Programming from unauthorized audiences. AFRTS must 

authorize (or turn on) each decoder individually, over its satellite links, from the 

AFRTS Headquarters in Alexandria, VA or the Defense Media Center at March 

Air Reserve Base, California. 

How do I get the decoder authorized? 

When you have received the decoder, refer to the setup procedures for your area 

of the world at http://www.afrts.osd.mil/tech_info/page.asp?pg=tech_info and in 

Chapter 4 of this document. To request a decoder authorization customers must 

log on to the PowerVu Connect site at www.pvconnect.net and select “authorize 

decoders.” Customers then complete the decoder authorization request form by 

filling in the decoders Tracking Identification number (TID) and Unit Address (UA) 

and other requested information. The decoder request information will be 

reviewed by AFRTS-HQ. Leased decoder customer request authorizations must 

originate from the military exchange or store that leases the decoder. Individual 

requests for leased decoder authorization will be rejected. Approved 

authorizations should occur within 24 hours upon receipt of the request. If the 

Internet and e-mail access are not available to the requestor (remote locations), 

customers who purchased a decoder can contact the Defense Media Center 

Help Desk directly at commercial (951) 413-2339, DSN (312) 348-1339 Or 

AFRTS-HQ at commerical (703) 428-0616, DSN (312) 328-0616. Callers will 

need to have the decoder TID and UA numbers and model number of each 

decoder available to provide to the technologist in order to activate the decoders. 

2-5


How long does it take to get the decoder turned on? 

It is the goal of HQ AFRTS to activate your decoder within 24 hours after 

receiving your request. Once the owner and location of the decoder has been 

verified in the AFRTS database, the decoder will be activated. The decoder will 

stay activated unless it is physically turned off by HQ AFRTS Operations. 

How do you keep track of all these decoders? 

All authorized viewers possessing an AFRTS PowerVu decoder are entered into 

the AFRTS PowerVu Connect decoder database when they request decoder 

authorization at www.pvconnect.net. This database is highly secure with access 

restricted to HQ AFRTS program managers, Defense Media Center 

Engineers/Technologists and AAFES/NAVY Exchange Trusted Agents at stores 

that lease decoders. The required information includes: The decoder owner’s 

name, status (DoD, State Department, military retiree, etc), mailing address, 

work phone, country, city and DEROS Date (3 years or less) and other remarks 

that help us identify who we are serving. It is maintained by the program 

managers at HQ AFRTS Operations. 

What do I do if or when my authorization period is up? 

You can avoid this by keeping your DEROS and address information current. If 

your authorization does expire, you will be automatically switched to a channel 

telling you to update your DEROS or registration information. Then you must log 

on to www.pvconnect.net and update your DEROS information to have the 

decoder authorized again. AFRTS will only authorize decoders for a maximum of 

three years at a time. 

What are the direct exchange (DX) procedures for AFRTS ® 

PowerVu equipment? 

Depending whether the decoder is government owned, customer owned, 

customer leased, or US Navy owned one of four different procedures are 

followed. These procedures are found in this chapter. 

Government issued decoders: The direct exchange (DX) procedure is based 

upon the former Television-Audio Support Activity (now Defense Media Center) 

External Policy and Procedure, dated August 29, 1996 and provides DX 

procedures for all models of AFRTS provided Power Vu Integrated Receiver- 

Decoders (IRD). Customer purchased equipment is discussed later in this 

chapter. 

All activities will operate in accordance with these procedures. Local repair of 

PowerVu equipment is NOT authorized. 

When it is determined that a piece of Power Vu Equipment is defective, furnish 

the following information: 

� Model number(s) of the defective unit(s). Rack mountable commercial 

9223 IRDs are provided in three Models: 803-200, 803-201 and 803-202. 

2-6


These model designations are provided as part of a bar code on the front 

of the units. The set top unit that uses a remote control is Model 9234 or 

9834. 

� Tracking identification number(s) (TID). The 9223 units are marked with 

the TID as a part of the front panel bar code. The TID for 9234 IRDs is on 

the bottom of the equipment or on the rear. The TID for the 9834 is 

located on the back. 

� Quantity, by model, of defective units. Please provide us the number of 

defective decoders by model number. Example: (2) 202s, (3) 201s, (13) 

and 9234s. 

� Symptoms of defect(s). Provide as much information as possible to assist 

with the troubleshooting and repair of the equipment. 

� Point of contact (POC) should include: name, telephone number 

(DSN/commercial), Fax number (DSN/commercial) and, if possible, the E- 

Mail address. 

� Return shipping address. 

Notifications of defective equipment are preferred via E-Mail, however, fax, letter, 

or messages are acceptable alternatives. 

E-Mail Addresses: 

To: powervu@dodmedia.osd.mil 

cc: afrtops@hq.afis.osd.mil 

afrtops2@hq.afis.osd.mil 

afrteng@hq.afis.osd.mil 

dee@dodmedia.osd.mil 

Mailing addresses: 

To: Television-Audio Support Activity 

Attn: Video Compression (DX Program) 

23755 Z Street 

Riverside, Ca. 92518 

cc: AFRTS HQ/Engineering 

601 N. Fairfax Street, Room 360 

Alexandria, VA 22314 

2-7


American Forces Radio and Television Service 

Defense Media Center 

23755 Z Street 

Riverside, CA 92518 

Message addresses: 

To: 

Info: AMFINFOS WASHINGTON DC//AFRTS// 

CDR AFRTS BC MARCH FLD CA//DOEE// 

Fax numbers: 

AFRTS: DSN (312) 328-0624 

AFRTS: Commercial (703) 428-0624 

AFRTS-BC: DSN (312) 348-1457 

AFRTS-BC Commercial: (951) 413-2457 

Upon receipt of a notification of defective equipment, Scientific Atlanta (SA) will 

be contacted and requested to provide a Return Materiel Authorization (RMA) 

number and the address to ship the defective unit. The Defense Media Center 

(DMC) will then advise all parties of the RMA and the shipping address. Do not 

ship until you are given disposition instructions by DMC. Additionally, the DMC 

will de-authorize the defective unit(s) in the decoder database. 

Ensure that the equipment is packed properly, marked and shipped by traceable 

means. The remote control must be included with the shipment of a desktop 

decoder. Notify DMC with complete shipping information of the defective 

equipment being returned for repair. DMC will ship a replacement, if available, 

and provide the TCN, method, mode, and date of shipment. 

Ensure that the equipment is packed properly, marked and shipped by traceable 

means. The remote control must be included with the shipment of a desktop 

decoder. 

Exchange/repair Points of Contact: 

Defense Media Center (formerly T-ASA) Logistics 

Commercial (951) 413-2429 

DSN (312) 348-1429 

Fax commercial (951) 413-2463 

DSN Fax (312) 348-1463 

E-Mail: PowerVu@dodmedia.osd.mil 

Defense Media Center Technical Points of Contact: 

Technologist (24-hours a day) 

2-8


DSN (312) 348-1339 or commercial 951-413-2339. 

E-Mail: technologist@dodmedia.osd.mil 

They have a computer program to provide azimuth, elevation and decoder 

settings and can assist with troubleshooting. 

Duty Engineer 

DSN (312) 348-1236, and ask for the engineer. 

Commercial (951) 413-2236, then Press 1 

E-mail: dee@dodmedia.osd.mil 

Defense Media Center Engineering 

Commercial (951) 413-2429 

DSN (312) 348-1429 

Fax Commercial (951) 413-2463 

DSN FAX (312) 348-1463 

E-mail: powervu@dodmedia.osd.mil 

HQ AFRTS Operations and Policy: 

DSN (312) 328-0616 or commercial 703-428-0616 

DSN (312) 328-0290, or commercial (703) 428-0290, 

Fax commercial (703) 428-0624, DSN (312) 328-0624 

E-Mail: afrtops@hq.afis.osd.mil 

E-Mail: afrtops2@hq.afis.osd.mil 

What are the repair procedures for customer purchased 

PowerVu Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) equipment? 

PowerVu Decoders purchased by authorized audience members for personal 

use are repaired via the manufacturers warranty provided at the time of purchase 

from the Military Exchange or Scientific Atlanta. If the warranty has expired then 

repair is at the owner’s expense. HQ AFRTS and Military Exchanges maintain a 

list of authorized repair facilities for both Europe and Japan/Korea or the 

defective decoder can be returned for repair to the manufacturer, Scientific 

Atlanta. If using the Scientific Atlanta option ask for a return material 

authorization (RMA) to return the IRD for repair. The Scientific Atlanta Technical 

Assistance Center Customer Service Representative can be reached at (800) 

873-4613 or from overseas dial (770) 236-4786. You can also visit the Scientific 

Atlanta PowerVu technical website for a list of worldwide toll free access 

numbers for the country you are located. 

http://www.scientificatlanta.com/products/customers/service_content_distribution 

_numbers.htm 

What are the repair procedures for customer leased PowerVu 

Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) equipment? 

Customers who are leasing a decoder should return it to the exchange that it is 

being leased from. The exchange should contact Scientific Atlanta via fax, email, 

2-9


or phone to receive an RMA and instructions for returning the units to be 

repaired. 

What are the repair procedures for decoders from Navy Ships 

and Fleet Support Detachments? 

Navy personnel will contact the nearest FSD when they have a defective 

decoder. The FSD will do a one-for-one exchange taking the broken decoder and 

replacing it with a working one. The FSD then requests an RMA number from 

TASA to return the broken decoder to Scientific Atlanta for repair. The FSD will 

ship the decoder directly to Scientific Atlanta. Finally Scientific Atlanta will send 

the repaired unit back to FED EX to the Naval Media Center’s warehouse. 

2-10


Chapter 3 : AFRTS ® Satellite Networks 

American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) uses a combination of 

domestic and international satellites to deliver radio and television programming 

and data products to its audience around the world. Two satellite networks are in 

place: the AFRTS Satellite Network (SATNET) and the AFRTS Direct-To-Sailor 

Satellite Network (DTS). SATNET is made up of a C-Band satellite service to the 

Atlantic Ocean Region (AOR) and the Western Pacific Ocean Region (POR), and 

Ku-Band direct-to-home satellite services, which are available in the greater 

European and Southwest Asia theatres, and Japan and Korea and The 

Philippines. DTS satellite services are broadcast on C-band and are available in 

three service areas: the Pacific Ocean Area (POR), the Atlantic Ocean Area 

(AOR), and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The network operating system for 

the SatNet network is an MPEG-2 video compression system broadcasting 

multiple channels of television, radio and data services. The DTS network uses a 

similar system using MPEG-1 video compression. The program material for the 

domestic and international legs of the SATNET C-band Service and the DTS 

networks originate from the AFRTS Defense Media Center (DMC) located at 

March Air Reserve Base east of Los Angeles, California. Programming for the 

European leg of the network, known as SATNET Ku-band Service, originates 

from the AFRTS-BC with regional programming added by AFN Europe located in 

Frankfurt, Germany and Vicenza, Italy. Programming for the Pacific Ku band 

service also originates from AFRTS-BC with regional programming by AFN|prime 

Pacific located in Tokyo Japan. 

Introduction to PowerVu 

AFRTS uses a digital video compression system that allows for the delivery of 

multiple channels of programming simultaneously over each of the satellite 

networks described above. The Scientific Atlanta PowerVu system is used by 

AFRTS and was designed to conform to the Moving Picture Experts Group 

(MPEG) and European Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) standards for digital 

video compression. PowerVu is a full MPEG digital video compression system 

which not only provides AFRTS with a flexible operating system for multiple 

channel transmission; it also provides state-of-the-art network and subscriber 

management capabilities combined together into one satellite transmission 

stream. PowerVu also provides for encryption, which ensures that only 

authorized users have access to AFRTS programming. One of the most powerful 

capabilities of PowerVu is the Virtual Channel feature, which allows AFRTS-BC 

to create various programming channel combinations to suit audience needs. 

Other features include the use of error correction, which helps to overcome noisy 

satellite transmissions. 

Historically, television broadcasting has placed a great demand on satellites, 

particularly in terms of bandwidth and transmit power. The television signal 

contains an extraordinary amount of electronic information, all of which needs to 

be received by the viewer’s television set in order to recreate acceptable pictures 

and sound. There is a direct relationship between the amount of electronic 

3-1


information transmitted (more is better) and the bandwidth and power used for 

that transmission. Simply put, the information transmit rate is directly proportional 

to the bandwidth required and, assuming all other factors being equal, the 

bandwidth is directly proportional to the amount of power required. The size of 

the required receive antenna is inversely proportional to the effective isotropic 

radiated power (EIRP) from the satellite. The AFRTS system takes advantage of 

the relationship between bandwidth and power in a couple of ways. 

First, the system uses video compression technology to squeeze multiple 

television channels into the same transmitted channel bandwidth as was used by 

the previous AFRTS transmission scheme for a single channel. Secondly, by 

reducing the information rate but not reducing the power means, particularly in 

the case of DTS, that there is more power available for each bit of transmitted 

information. In more technical terms there is a higher ratio of energy per data bit 

in the transmit data stream and this translates ultimately into a reduction in the 

size of the receive antenna required to produce acceptable pictures and sound. 

Figure 3-1 Block level system diagram 

Figure 3-1 shows a simplified block diagram of the PowerVu system of MPEG-2 

encoders, multiplexer, transmission, and decoding equipment. Analog video and 

audio signals are presented to PowerVu encoders where they are converted into 

digital signals and then compressed into an MPEG format. The compression 

process removes digital bits that are either not needed by the PowerVu system, 

or are redundant picture and sound information that PowerVu temporarily 

removes during satellite transmission and then reinserts during the process of 

restoring the original signals in the compression decoder. In the AFRTS system 

as many as eight encoders feed a single PowerVu multiplexer which performs 

several functions including combining of multiple encoder signals, addition of 

utility data to the combined data stream, signal encryption or scrambling, and 

processing of program guide information. The multiplexer’s output signal is then 

modulated and amplified for transmission over a satellite link. At a satellite 

3-2


downlink, a PowerVu Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) performs all of the 

necessary functions to receive, demodulate, and decode the video, audio, and 

data signals from the single MPEG data stream. 

AFRTS employs encryption and scrambling in its PowerVu operating system to 

ensure that only authorized viewers are able to receive programming. The 

PowerVu system not only allows AFRTS to individually control both the general 

overall authorization of compression decoders, that is controlling whether or not a 

decoder can receive and decode the MPEG signal, but it also provides for the 

control of individual services available to the decoder. For example, AFRTS can 

blackout an individual channel or program authorization to a single decoder if the 

need ever arises. 

Once the picture and sound information are converted into MPEG digital bit 

streams by the PowerVu encoders, it is possible to mix and match video data 

from one source with audio data from another to create a totally unique channel. 

This is the basic concept of PowerVu virtual channels and it is a capability that 

AFRTS has taken advantage of in the design of the various satellite networks. 

The operational and technical needs of a cable television head end operator may 

differ significantly, for example, from that of an AFRTS affiliate broadcast station. 

As was mentioned earlier, the PowerVu compression decoders can be outfitted 

with a wide range of options such as up to four channels of stereo radio 

programming. The PowerVu system allows AFRTS the ability to match, for 

example, entertainment television programming which has been timed for a 

particular geographic region with similarly programmed radio services. PowerVu 

also allows for the manipulation of the utility and high-speed data programming 

by means of the virtual channel feature. 

The MPEG standard was designed with a degree of extensibility, which is the 

ability to add services to the transmission signal other than television and radio 

programming. One of these services that PowerVu provides and AFRTS is taking 

advantage of is utility data service. The utility data feature of PowerVu has been 

designed to be very simple and can be thought of as a data pipe. A PC or other 

data source simply transmits the serial data into the multiplexer by way of a 

communications program, and it is available without modification at the decoder 

as though it had been transmitted through a computer network cable. 

3-3


Figure 3-2 Connecting an IRD to a monitor or TV receiver 

The integrated receiver/decoder (IRD) is a primary link to AFRTS satellite 

broadcasts. Without a properly authorized and configured IRD it is not possible to 

use or access any of the television or radio programming or data services 

provided by AFRTS. The compression decoder is designed to receive and 

decode the satellite signal and then to demodulate, decompress, and decrypt the 

available and authorized programming services. Figure 3-2 shows typical block 

diagrams of the connection between a satellite antenna, a PowerVu IRD, and the 

users own equipment. All PowerVu IRDs are designed to be connected to a 

satellite Frequency (RF) signal that is in the L-band frequency range between 

950 and 1450 MHz. However, the satellite technology in use today does not 

allow for transmissions back to earth in that frequency range. Users wishing to 

receive any of the AFRTS satellite signals directly must outfit their antennas with 

a Low Noise Block Converter Amplifier, or LNB. The signal from the LNB output 

is connected directly to, in most cases, the input of the IRD and, as Figure 3-2 

shows, the video and audio outputs from the IRD are connected directly to the 

users equipment. The user then simply changes the IRD to a virtual channel, and 

provided the IRD is authorized by AFRTS, receives the television and radio 

services of that virtual channel much like any cable or direct-to-home television 

service in the world. 

3-4


SATNET C-Band Satellite and Japan/Korea Ku-band Services 

AFRTS-BC compiles the video and audio programming from the major US 

television and radio networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX and ESPN. Data 

Figure 3-3 AFRTS SATNET network diagram 

programming is supplied to AFRTS-BC from a variety of DoD and commercial 

sources. All of this programming is then electronically manipulated into the 

unique 

SATNET 

television, 

radio, and 

data channels 

that are then 

transmitted 

around the 

world. Figure 

3-3 shows the 

overall 

SATNET 

architecture. 

Figure 3-4 AFRTS SATNET IntelSat Galaxy 28 footprint 

3-5 

The domestic 

and 

international 

SATNET C-band feeds originate at AFRTS-BC where the signal is up linked to 

IntelSat Galaxy 28 located at 89� west. The satellite feed from IntelSat Galaxy 28


Figure 3-5 AFRTS SATNET NewSkies NSS-5 and NSS-6 

footprints 

3-6 

is received by AFRTS 

customers located within 

the domestic satellite 

footprint. Refer to Figure 

3-4 for the satellite signal 

coverage from IntelSat 

Galaxy 28. 

Also receiving the 

domestic satellite feed 

are two international 

satellite gateways: the 

west gateway located at 

Brewster, Washington; 

and the east gateway 

located at Holmdel, New 

Jersey. The gateway at 

Brewster transmits the 

SATNET C-band service 

to the satellite located at 

183� east for western 

Pacific audiences with 

larger satellite dishes. 

This signal is received by 

a site in Hong Kong 

where it is then sent to 

the satellite located at 

95� to provide Ku-band service for audiences as far south as The Philippines and 

as far north as Japan. See figure 3-5 for these two signals. 

Similarly, the gateway in Holmdel transmits the same SATNET C-band service to 

the international satellite 

located at 1� West (359� 

East); its footprint can be 

found on figure 3-6. Pacific 

Ocean areas not served by 

the Direct-to-Home service in 

Japan and Korea receive DTS 

signals from an international 

satellite at 180 degrees East 

or C-band signals from the 

satellite located at 177 W. 

SATNET Channel Guide 

Appendix A provides the 

virtual channel information for 

Figure 3-6 AFRTS INTELSAT 10-02


the SATNET C-band Service. Appendix D provides additional satellite 

parameters. 

The AFN|news channels provides 24 hour a day timely news, news features, 

business and military news as gathered from the major networks. 

The AFN|sports channel features sporting events, sporting news, and feature 

sports programming. 

The AFN|prime television channels are similar to mainstream commercial 

television in terms of look, but surpass it in terms of content, featuring the best of 

American television. Each entertainment channel is programmed and scheduled 

to best serve a geographic audience; AFN|prime Atlantic is programmed for the 

European audience; AFN|prime Pacific for the Asian and Western Pacific 

audiences; and AFN|freedom for the Mid-East audiences. 

The AFN|spectrum channel is made up of programming which features movies, 

the best of Public Broadcasting Service, Arts & Entertainment (A&E), Discovery 

Channel, History Channel, and classic series and cartoons. This service is 

packaged into eight-hour segments that are shown three times, each eight-hour 

segment presenting an alternative family oriented program for each major time 

zone during prime time. 

AFN|xtra channel is a “lifestyle” channel made up of fast-paced action, 

excitement, and fun programming during the weekdays and a second sports 

channel over the weekends. During the week, it becomes home to a variety of 

alternative and classic sports, sports-talk, consumer high-tech, video gaming, 

and leading edge entertainment programming. On weekends AFN|xtra will carry 

live and delayed sports. Occasionally regular weekday programming will be preempted 

for must-see bonus live sports coverage when there’s simultaneous 

coverage of a high-profile event already on another AFN channel. 

The Pentagon channel is produced by the AFRTS NewsCenter in Washington 

DC and provides extended coverage of many events that the major news 

networks may not necessarily cover in their entirety. The Pentagon Channel’s 

current daily schedule includes live events such as Pentagon Press and 

Operational Briefings, Secretary of Defense town hall meetings, Central 

Command Press and Operational Briefings, State Department and White House 

briefings, Capitol Hill testimony by Defense officials and other relevant events 

available from the National Network Pool. 

Multiple types of radio programming are available on the Ku-Band SATNET: The 

AFN Uninterruptible Voiceline radio service includes news, commentary, and 

special feature radio programming from a variety of U.S. commercial radio 

networks including AP, Fox, NPR and CNN all on a 24-hour basis. The AFN 

Interruptible Voiceline radio service offers the same news and commentary 

programming but breaks away to provide major American live sports 

programming at various times. Playoff and championship series will increase this 

number slightly. Music radio services include jazz from National Public Radio, 

Classic Rock, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show on the urban channel Gravity, 

3-7


JackFM, Techno and Trance on the DriveFX service, and Hot AC from ABC 

Radio. In addition there is the mainstream country service from Dial Global. 

Data products are transmitted over SATNET using PowerVu utility data channel. 

Refer to chapter 7 of this handbook for information on data services provided by 

AFRTS. 

SATNET 

European Ku- 

Band Satellite 

Services 

The American 

Forces Network 

(AFN-Europe) 

affiliate stations 

located in 

Frankfurt, 

Germany and 

Vicenza, Italy 

downlink the 

SATNET C-Band 

service and add 

Figure 3-7 AFNE Hotbird Coverage 

local European 

News and Information to create a unique European version of SATNET referred 

to as the AFN Europe Service. 

The AFN Europe Ku-band service originates at AFN-E where the signal is fed 

over a high-speed fiber optic data channel to a commercial satellite teleport 

located at Usingen, Germany. At Usingen, the AFN Europe Service is transmitted 

to Hotbird 6 located at 13� and from Vicenza Italy to and Hotbird 9 located at 9� 

East for broadcast to Europe and Southwest Asia. Refer to figure 3-7 for the 

satellite coverage area. 

AFN Europe Channel Guide 

This section provides virtual channel information for the AFN Europe Service. At 

the present time AFN-E programs seven American Forces Network (AFN) 

television services that are transmitted over the SATNET C-band Service. (See 

Appendix A) 





The AFN|prime entertainment television services are similar to mainstream 

commercial television in terms of look. Each prime entertainment service is 

3-8


programmed and scheduled to best serve a geographic audience: AFN|prime 

Atlantic is programmed to suit the European audience. 

The AFN|spectrum service is made up of family oriented programming which 

features the best of Public Broadcasting Service, Arts & Entertainment (A&E), 

Discovery Channel, History Channel, and classic series and cartoons. This 

service is packaged into eight-hour segments that are shown three times, in a 

24-hour period. 

The Pentagon channel is produced by the AFRTS NewsCenter in Washington 

DC and provides extended coverage of many events that the major news 

networks may not necessarily cover in their entirety. The Pentagon Channel’s 

current daily schedule includes live events such as Pentagon Press and 

Operational Briefings, Secretary of Defense town hall meetings, Central 

Command Press and Operational Briefings, State Department and White House 

briefings, Capitol Hill testimony by Defense officials and other relevant events 

available from the National Network Pool. 

Multiple types of radio programming are available on the Ku-Band SATNET: The 

AFN Uninterruptible Voiceline radio service includes news, commentary, and 

special feature radio programming from a variety of U.S. commercial radio 

networks including AP, Fox, NPR and CNN all on a 24-hour basis. The AFN 

Interruptible Voiceline radio service offers the same news and commentary 

programming but breaks away to provide major American live sports 

programming at various times. Playoff and championship series will increase this 

number slightly. Music radio services include jazz from National Public Radio, 

Classic Rock, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show on the urban channel Gravity, 

JackFM, Techno and Trance on the DriveFX service, and Hot AC from ABC 

Radio. In addition there is the mainstream country service from Dial Global, as 

well as the AFN Europe originated radio services. 

AFRTS ® Direct-To-Sailor Satellite Network (DTS) 

The AFRTS DTS satellite network is a digital video compression system capable 

of providing video, audio, and data programming to AFRTS viewers around the 

world including sailors and Marines at sea underway aboard US Navy ships and 

Pacific Ocean areas not serviced by the Direct to Home service in Japan and 

Korea. The transponders on the three international DTS satellites are supplying 

global, premium beam service at an effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) 

level of 29.0 dBW (at beam edge). All three satellites transmit a left hand 

circularly polarized (LHCP) signal, but each has its own dedicated C-Band (3.7 

GHz to 4.2 GHz) downlink frequency. The network operating system uses 

MPEG-1 video compression technology to broadcast three video channels with 

their associated audio, additional stereo and monaural radio channels, and a 

utility data channel. All of the program material for these channels originates at 

the AFN Defense Media Center (DMC) located at March Air Reserve Base near 

Los Angeles, California. 

3-9


Figure 3-8 DTS Satellite network diagram 

DTS Satellite Network Architecture 

AFRTS-BC compiles the television and radio programming and data from the 

major US television and radio networks such as ABC, CBS, CNN, FOX, and 

NBC. This material is then configured into the unique DTS television, radio, and 

data channels that are then transmitted around the world over the AFRTS DTS 

satellite network. Figure 3-8 shows the overall DTS satellite network which 

includes a constellation of one domestic and three international satellites 

broadcasting the DTS signal to the three ocean regions: Atlantic Ocean Region 

(AOR), Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and Pacific Ocean Region (POR). The signal 

path to these satellites starts at AFN-BC where two independent networks are 

established, a DTS-POR network and a separate DTS-AOR/IOR network. 

3-10


The DTS-POR signal originates at AFN-BC where it is transmitted by a fiber optic 

high capacity data channel (45 Mbps, DS-3) to the West Coast international 

uplink site which relays the signal to an INTELSAT satellite located over the 

center of the POR service area. Refer to figure 3-9 (180° Pacific Ocean Region 

(POR) satellite 

footprint map). 

The DTS 

AOR/IOR signal 

also originates 

at AFN-BC but 

unlike the POR 

signal is up 

linked directly to 

a domestic 

satellite that 

provides the 

signal to the 

3-11 

East Coast 

international 

uplink site. The 

East Coast uplink site transmits to the NEW SKIES 7 satellite to provide the 

signal to the AOR 

service area (Figure 3- 

10). Located within the 

DTS-AOR service area 

is the European 

satellite relay facility at 

Madley, UK that 

receives the AOR 

signal and relays it to 

another INTELSAT 

satellite located in the 

IOR service area 

(Figure 3-11). (Note: 

The DTS domestic 

satellite link was 

designed for 

connectivity purposes 

Figure 3-9 IntelSat 701 Pacific Ocean 

Figure 3-10 New Skies NSS-7 Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean 

Sea 

to very large antennas and is not useable to provide service for shipboard 

customers.) 

DTS Channel Guide 

This section provides channel information for the two DTS networks. Appendix A 

provides the virtual channel information for the all service networks.


At the present time AFRTS programs three television services that are 

transmitted over each of the two DTS Satellite Networks. 





The AFN entertainment television services are similar to mainstream commercial 

television in terms of look, but surpass it in terms of content, featuring the best of 

American television. Each entertainment service is programmed and scheduled 

to best serve a geographic audience. AFN|prime Pacific is transmitted over the 

DTS-POR system and is timed for the Japan time zone audience; AFN|prime 

Atlantic is transmitted over both the DTS-AOR and DTS-IOR systems and is 

scheduled for an audience in the Central European time zone. 

Two types of radio 

programming are available 

on the DTS system: AFN 

Voiceline and AFN stereo 

radio channels. AFN 

Voiceline radio services 

include news, commentary, 

and special feature radio 

programming from a variety 

of U.S. commercial radio 

networks including AP, Fox, 

NPR, and CNN. As the name 

implies, the AFN 

Figure 3-11IntelSat 906 Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf 

Uninterruptible Voiceline 

offers this type of 

programming on a 24-hour basis. The AFN Voiceline offers same news and 

commentary programming but breaks away to provide major American live sports 

programming. Playoff and championship series will increase this number slightly. 

The two stereo radio channels have been designed specifically for use with the 

DTS system. Channel one is a mix of jazz from National Public Radio, Techno 

and Trance service DriveFX, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show and urban music 

on the Gravity channel, and Jack FM from Dial Global. Channel two is a mix of 

Mainstream Country, Classic Rock and Z-Rock (alternative rock) from Dial 

Global. 

Public affairs data products are transmitted over the DTS system using the 128 

kbps utility data channel. These include Stripes Newspaper, Early Bird, Navy 

News Wire Service, and the New York Times Fax. Additional data products will 

be added as they become available. 

See appendixes B and D for additional technical reference on both SATNET and 

DTS signals. 

3-12


The Pentagon Channel Network Architecture 

The Pentagon Channel broadcasts military information and news for the 2.6 

million members of the U.S. Armed Forces through programming including 

Department of Defense (DoD) press briefings, interviews with top Defense 

officials, short stories about the work of our military, and military news. 

In addition to enhancing DoD communications with the 1.4 million active duty 

service members at military camps, bases, and stations in the United States and 

overseas, the Pentagon Channel provides the 1.2 million members of the 

National Guard and Reserve and the 650,000 civilian employees of the DoD 

more timely access to military information and news. 

The Pentagon Channel television service is distributed 24 hours a day, seven 

days a week and is available to all stateside cable and satellite providers, and via 

American Forces Radio and Television Service, overseas. The Pentagon 

Channel is also available via web cast at http://pentagonchannel.mil. 

The Pentagon Channel 

Satellite Settings 

The Pentagon Channel is available 

free of charge to all US residents and 

is broadcasted “in the clear” with no 

encryption which is unlike the SatNet 

and DTS services which are available 

only to military members and other 

DoD employees overseas. The 

Pentagon Channel is transmitted via 

AMC-1 at 103 degrees west longitude 

Figure 3-6 AMC-1 Ku coverage 

and can be received using an 80 

centimeter KU-Band satellite dish. 

To request the Pentagon Channel from your local cable or satellite provider, or to 

receive it using a digital decoder you’ll need the following coordinates and 

frequency information: 

� The satellite downlink frequency is 12.100 GHz 

� Vertical polarization on transponder 20 

� The modulation type is QPSK (quadrature phase shift keying) 

� The FEC (forward error correction) is 3/4 

� The symbol rate is 20,000 Mega-symbols per second 

� The MPEG Reed Solomon Coding is 204/188 

3-13


Chapter 4 : Digital Satellite Downlink Reception 

The AFRTS signal is a digitally compressed MPEG signal and as with any digital 

signal there is perfect reception or nothing at all. Tuning to an MPEG 

compressed digital signal, however, is a little different from tuning to a standard 

analog signal. Weak signals appear to be random noise; the receiver will not 

display any picture at all until sufficient signal is reaching the antenna. Then, 

once the digital threshold of the receiver/decoder is exceeded, a perfect picture 

will appear on the TV screen. MPEG digital reception is like a light switch; it’s on 

or off. This is to say that a digital signal has two states, perfect (on) picture 

quality and reception or nothing at all (off). Furthermore, if the installer moves 

past the antenna’s peak performance position, the picture will “freeze frame” on 

the last picture in its buffer memory. The IRD will not receive any further video 

until the antenna is repositioned to receive a signal above minimum receiver 

threshold. Peaking the signal improves the overhead above threshold and 

ensures a good picture under poor weather conditions. 

Typical Satellite TVRO Equipment Configuration 

The typical equipment arrangements used to receive AFRTS services are 

provided at Figure 3-2. Specific equipment requirements for receiving AFRTS 

services are provided in the section titled Qualification of Satellite Terminals or 

Digital Reception. 

General Satellite Concepts 

The concepts underlying satellite broadcasting are straightforward: signals 

beamed into space by an “uplink” dish are received by an orbiting satellite, 

electronically processed, re-broadcast or “down-linked” back to earth and then 

detected by a dish and associated electronics. A receiving station can be situated 

anywhere within the satellite’s “footprint” (see Chapter 3, satellite footprint maps). 

The overwhelming strength of satellite broadcasting lies in its ability to reach an 

unlimited number of sites regardless of their location without the need for any 

physical connections. 

Nearly all communication satellites designated for commercial use are positioned 

or “parked” in the “Clarke Belt”, also known as the “geostationary” arc. The 

Clarke belt lies in the equatorial plane 22,300 miles above the equator. This 

circle around the earth is unique because in this orbit the velocity of a spacecraft 

matches that of the surface of the earth below. Therefore each satellite appears 

to remain in a fixed orbital slot in the sky above. This allows a stationary dish to 

be permanently aimed towards a targeted geostationary satellite. 

A satellite receives the up-linked signal, lowers its frequency and re-broadcasts it 

to any chosen geographic area. Downlink transmit antennas can target over 40% 

of the earth’s surface with “global” beams, can broadcast to selected countries or 

continents via “zone” beams, or can pinpoint smaller areas with “spot” beams. 

Many domestic C-band broadcast satellites direct one beam that blankets the 

continental U.S. and a second more localized one to the Hawaiian Islands. Ku- 

4-1


band satellites, operating in the higher frequency 12 GHz range, are configured 

for spot beams and require smaller antennas to receive their signals. 

The Receive Site 

At the receive site a dish reflects and concentrates as much of the very weak 

down-linked signal as possible to its focus where a feed channels the signals into 

the first electronic component, the low noise block converter (LNB). The signal is 

then cabled indoors to the satellite receiver and processed into a form that can 

be deciphered by a television, stereo or computer. 

Radio Waves and Communications 

The transmission of extremely low power microwaves, a form of radio waves, 

underlies the operation of radio, conventional television, satellite broadcasting 

and other man-made communication devices. They are one form of more general 

phenomena known as electromagnetic waves that travel at the speed of light, 

equal to 186,000 miles per second. At this rate, a signal travels from the uplink, 

to a satellite and back again to earth in about 4/10ths of a second. 

Radio Waves 

Radio waves are defined by their frequency, power and polarization. These 

parameters are briefly discussed below. 

Signal Frequency 

The frequency of a radio wave is the number of vibrations that occur every 

second. Just like the frequency of sound vibrations determines whether a musical 

note is either a soprano or a bass, so the frequency of radio wave determines 

whether they are used to transmit regular AM radio broadcasts or satellite 

television broadcasts. Microwaves have frequencies in excess of one billion 

cycles per second (known as one gigahertz and abbreviated 1 GHz) to as high 

as 50 GHz. C and Ku-band satellite downlink signals fall in the 4 and 12 GHz 

range, respectively. 

Polarization 

Radio waves can be polarized. Two standard formats commonly used in C and 

Ku-band satellite communication links are linear and circular polarity. 

Linearly polarized signals can have either vertical or horizontal polarity. In this 

case, the electric and magnetic fields of the signal remain in the same planes in 

which they were originally transmitted. Horizontally polarized waves vibrate in a 

horizontal plane; vertically polarized waves vibrate in a vertical plane. Most Cband 

signals broadcast to TVROs (television receive-only) are linearly polarized. 

In circularly polarized signals the electrical and magnetic fields rotate in a circular 

motion as they travel through space, somewhat analogous to a spiral. The 

direction of the rotation determines the type of circular polarization. A signal 

rotating in a right-hand direction is termed right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) 

4-2


and a signal rotating in the left-hand direction is termed left-hand circular 

polarization (LHCP). 

A principle advantage of 

circular polarization is the 

elimination of the need for 

skew adjustment. A feed 

designed to receive a linearly 

polarized signal must be 

correctly lined up with its plane 

of polarization to allow 

reception of the highest 

possible power and therefore 

clearest picture. It requires a 

skew adjustment for finetuning. 

However, a feed that 

receives a RHCP or LHCP 

Figure 4-1 Satellite dish parts 

signal can be attached at the 

focal point of the dish in any 

orientation. 

There are three noteworthy components of a satellite receive antenna which 

collectively capture and amplify the signal to a level large enough to break the 

receiver reception threshold, normally around negative 45dB. These are the 

reflective surface or parabolic curvature, the feedhorn and the amplifier section 

“Low Noise Amplifier (LNA), Low Noise Block converter (LNB), Low Noise 

Converter (LNC), and Low Noise Feedhorn (LNF). We will focus on these areas 

because they are the components that we personally come in contact with and 

have the greatest control over. 

Antenna Reflector 

The reflective surface in a perfect world would rely on the geometric properties of 

its true parabolic curve to reflect the satellite signal to a very sharp focal point. 

The focal point on a parabolic antenna is out in front and to the center of the 

surface. This would be a well-defined area if a perfect parabolic curve were 

defined, however this isn’t as defined as we would prefer. The focal point is not 

as perfect as theory would dictate but is still within a small radius and is a 

defining difference in a perfect or marginal signal reception. This you may say is 

where the “rubber meets the road” and collection of the signal is critical in this 

area. 

4-3


Reflective surfaces come in several different shapes and sizes but are most 

common in the parabolic or offset shape. Offset shaped antennas are nothing 

more than a small section of the original parabolic antenna see figure 4-2. The 

larger the reflective service the better defined the focal point becomes and 

therefore more gain can be expected. The reflector sometimes mistakenly called 

the antenna is the first step in a well-engineered system that will continue to 

provide service under harsh 

environments. If the size of 

your dish is too small for the 

signal you intend to capture, 

nothing is going to compensate 

for that. Working with an 

analog signal you could get by 

with a smaller dish but suffer 

with a noisy picture. A digital 

signal on the other hand is 

perfect or nothing situation and 

with a marginal or less 

reflective surface you can 

expect nothing. 

Many of the small aperture Kuband 

dishes sold these days 

use an offset antenna, see 

figure 4-2, a feedhorn design 

which places the focal point 

below the front and center of 

the dish. This type of antenna, 

Figure 4-2 An offset satellite antenna 

as defined earlier is actually a 

small oval subsection from a 

much larger parabolic antenna design, is oval in shape with a minor axis (left to 

right) that is narrower than its major axis (top to bottom). Because of its unique 

geometry, the offset fed antenna requires a specially designed feedhorn, which 

matches the antenna geometry precisely. For this reason, the offset fed antenna 

and feedhorn are usually sold together as a single unit. This type of feed is called 

a Low Noise Feed or LNF. 

Amplifier “LNA/B/C/F” 

The concentrated signal from the reflective surface is channeled to a low noise 

amplifier that has a very low noise floor. The job for this section is to amplify the 

signal to a level that is above the receiver’s threshold. The Low Noise Amplifier 

(LNA) amplifies the signal at the output of the earth station’s antenna. The most 

commonly used LNAs use gallium arsenide field effect transistors (GaAsFETs). 

Typical noise temperatures of amplifiers produced today range from 15° K to 60° 

K (LNB\C\F). 

4-4


The LNA is a weather sealed unit that provides enough gain to transport the 

signal from the antenna to the receiver. It is located as close the feedhorn as 

possible to minimize signal loss and thereby improving signal to noise ratio. The 

problem with an LNA is that the signal is in several gigahertz frequency range 

and requires expensive transmission lines to carry the signal from the antenna to 

the receiver. A much more efficient way of doing this is to down-convert the 

signal at the antenna to a lower frequency for transmission to the receiver. This is 

accomplished with the newer LNB/C/F to lower the satellite normal GHz 

frequencies to an L-band frequency between 940 MHz to 1450 MHz. For ease of 

discussion, all Low Noise Amplifier types will be referred to as a LNB, form this 

point forward 

There is a basic tradeoff between LNB noise temperature and antenna size, 

which is gain, expressed by the system figure of merit G/T. Smaller antennas 

require a cooler LNB temperature for equivalent system performance. Whereas a 

larger antenna allows use of an LNB with a higher noise temperature. This 

should not be misunderstood and you should not be mislead that an amplifier 

with a lower noise temperature will correct for any antenna size. G/T is a 

measure of the ability of a receiving system to amplify very weak signals, such as 

those of a satellite transmitter 22,300 miles away over the background noise. The 

“G” is antenna gain and the “T” is its noise temperature. The job for the LNB is to 

overcome this noise figure with a carrier to noise C/N separation of greater than 

8dB, see Spectrum Analyzer plots. The average for reliable reception of the 

AFRTS digital signal is 12dB of signal above the noise floor. It should be noted 

also that a digital signal reacts to noise and interference differently than a analog 

signal. Noise or interference introduced in a digital environment will cause 

pixelization and even loss of signal reception. Whereas in the analog world, 

received video will have noise or sparkles but in most instances would not suffer 

total loss of signal. The advantage of the digital signal is, there is no change in 

the signal quality until it deteriorates below the receiver reception threshold. But, 

at that point the received video will go from perfect to total loss of signal; notice 

there is no in between. 

The noise figure or temperature, expressed in decibels or degrees Kelvin, 

respectively, is a measure of the degree by which this amplifier degrades or 

decreases the signal-to-noise ratio of the satellite signal as it passes through the 

device. This scale is based on the fact that at a temperature known as absolute 

zero, 0° K (equal to minus 273.16° C or minus 459.72° F), molecular motion 

ceases and consequently all electronic noise disappears. The lower the noise 

temperature or figure, the better amplifier performance. There are amplifiers on 

the market today with noise temperatures as low as 15°. Getting below 15° K, 

requires external cooling of the electronics and is a very expensive endeavor. 

Gain is also very important in characterizing low noise amplifiers. The more 

common LNB gains today usually range from 60 to 70 dB. LNBs must be 

designed with sufficient gain to overcome cable losses as well as the effects of 

noise contributed within this device and overall system noise temperature. 

4-5


The low noise block down converter, the LNB, detects the signal relayed from the 

feed, converts it to an electrical current, amplifies it and down-converts or lowers 

its frequency. LNBs in both analog and digital systems down-convert the signal to 

a band in the 950 to 1450 MHz range. The “down-converted” signal is 

subsequently relayed along cable to the indoor satellite receiver. 

Signals reaching the input of an LNB from a typical 8-foot C-band dish have 

powers of less than 10 –14 watts/m 2 . Therefore, an LNB must contribute very little 

noise power or received satellite signals will be drowned out in the roar of 

amplifier internal thermal noise. This feat is made possible by advances in 

transistor technology. Without such progress, satellite broadcasting would not 

exist as we know it today. 

LNB Performance 

There are three specifications that affect the performance of the LNB and have a 

direct effect on the ability of a system to satisfactorily capture a satellite signal. In 

order of importance for digital reception is, the noise temperature, Local 

Oscillator stability (L.O.), and its gain expressed in dB. The noise temperature of 

the amplifier must be low enough to overcome the noise floor of the antenna to a 

minimum of 8dB above the signal to noise floor. 

Feedhorn Assembly 

Feedhorns, as with the reflective 

surface also come in several 

different forms with the most 

common being the scalar feedhorn. 

The scalar feedhorn has a large 

circular plate with a series of circular 

rings attached to its surface, see 

figure 4-3. These rings collect the 

signal at the antennas focal point 

and conduct the incoming signal to 

the waveguide attached between the 

rings and the LNB. The effect of the 

scalar rings is to concentrate the 

signal in an effort to correct the 

Figure 4-3 Feedhorn assembly 

imperfections of the parabolic shape. 

Therefore the effect of the feedhorn 

to focus or channel the incoming signal is critical in signal reception. Adjustment 

of the feedhorn will be discussed later but is a must to take advantage of the 

systems overall gain and therefore reducing the overall system noise floor. 

The scalar feedhorn primarily sees or is illuminated by the inner portion of the 

antenna’s surface area, while attenuating the signal contribution from the outer 

portion of the dish by 8 to 22 dB, depending on whether the dish is deep or 

shallow in its construction. Molecular motion within the Earth itself generates 

random noise, which permeates the entire electromagnetic Spectrum used for 

4-6


the transmission of satellite signals. This random noise is many times stronger 

than the satellite signals reaching any location. The attenuation or illumination 

taper provided by the feed sharply reduces the reception of the Earth noise which 

lies just beyond the antenna’s rim. The outer area of the antenna’s surface 

therefore acts more as an Earth shield for the feedhorn than as a contributor to 

the overall signal gain of the receiving antenna. 

Feedhorn Adjustments 

Focal length between the center of the 

antenna surface hub and bottom of the 

feedhorn assembly facing the antenna 

surface should be initially set to the distance 

recommended by the antenna manufacture, 

see figure 4-4. Adjustments of 1/8 inch or 

more in or out from the recommended 

distance should be made while using a signal 

meter or Spectrum analyzer to determine the 

precise position required for maximum signal 

acquisition. This is particularly important for 

antennas composed of individual segments, 

especially those composed of mesh panels 

as antenna surface irregularities due to 

careless antenna assembly can actually shift 

the optimum position of the focal point from 

Figure 4-4 Focal length 

the value recommended by the antenna 

manufacturer. 

When adjusting the feedhorn in or out, be sure that the waveguide opening 

remains precisely centered over the dish at all times. You can check this by 

measuring from the antenna’s rim to the outer ring of the waveguide opening 

from four equidistant positions around the rim. All of these measurements should 

be equal. 

There is an important difference in the process of aiming an analog and a digital 

dish. When even a faint signal is received a hint of a television picture appears 

with a conventional TVRO. Then fine adjustments can be made to improve 

reception. A digital system either acquires the signal or nothing. Therefore the 

aiming angles should be set as accurately as possible before powering on. Once 

the signal has been acquired, then the signal strength can be monitored for finetuning. 

One saving grace with small dish systems is that the beam width is so 

wide that aiming errors of even a degree or more will not have a major impact. 

While fine-tuning the digital dish monitoring the signal strength is a good 

indication of raw RF, but as a word of caution, don’t sacrifice BER for signal 

strength. 

4-7


Polarization 

There are four polarities most common to communications satellites in orbit 

today. These are horizontal, vertical, left and right hand polarization and your 

system pickup probe must be aligned accordingly for best reception. There are 

several different types of feeds: some will need to be manually polarized and 

some will not depending on the type of feedhorn used. This adjustment is best 

accomplished while monitoring the satellite signal on the display of a spectrum 

analyzer. If a spectrum analyzer isn’t available, make this adjustment and 

maximize the BER of the receiver. Rotate the feedhorn until you begin to see the 

other polarization. Turn your receiver on and look at the BER. You will notice that 

it gets worse as the other polarity begins to increase. The idea is to minimize the 

other polarization and at the same time maximize the BER or signal quality of 

your receiver. If you notice that rotating the feedhorn in a 360 o rotation makes no 

difference to the BER/Signal quality. This indicates that your feedhorn is not 

adjustable and is factory set to the polarization of the satellite transponder and no 

further adjustments are necessary. 

Qualification of Satellite Terminals for Digital Reception 

The following three subsections include lists of equipment needed to receive the 

AFRTS signal. The boxes cover equipment for SATNET C-band, SATNET Kuband 

and Television-Direct to Sailor (TV-DTS) C-band digital reception. 

Equipment needed for SATNET C-band reception 

1. Dish Size: 4.5 meter (minimum size) 

2. Mid-band Gain: 43.6 dBi 

3. Feedhorn 

3.1. For Domestic Region (IntelSat Americas-5) C-band Linear 

Vertical Polarization (V) 

3.2. For Atlantic Ocean Region: C-band Right Hand Circular 

Polarization (RHCP) 

3.3. For Pacific Ocean Region: C-band Left Hand Circular 

Polarization (LHCP) 

4. Low Noise Block (LNB) 

4.1. Noise Temperature: 25� K (+ -) 5� K 

4.2. LO Stability: 1,000 kHz (+ -) 100 kHz 

4.3. Recommend using a NORSAT Model 8525F 

5. Cable: RG-6 or RG-11 

6. L-band Splitter: Caution terminate all unused ports 

6.1. Must be diode steerable, power passing on all legs 

6.2. Recommend using a Channel Master 1x4 Model. 24141FD 

4-8


7. L-band in Line Amplifier 

7.1. 20dB gain from .9 ��.75 (GHz) 

7.2. Recommend using a DX Antenna Model ES-25 

8. R.F. Connectors 

8.1. For RG-6, recommend using Anixter P/N 144017 


Equipment needed for SATNET Ku-band reception 

1. Dish Size: 80 centimeters to 1.5 meter (For the size needed in your location, 

refer to the satellite footprint maps in chapter 3, figures 3-6 for Japan and Korea 

or figure 3-7 for Europe.) 

2. MidBand Gain: 80 CM 37.6 dBi 

MidBand Gain: 1 meter 39.5 dBi 

MidBand Gain: 1.2 meter 41.7 dBi 

MidBand Gain: 1.8 meter 44.5 dBi 

3. Feedhorn Ku-band Linear Vertical Polarization (H) 


4.1. Noise Temperature: 0.6 to 0.8� dB 

4.2. LO Stability: 750 kHz (+ -) 100 kHz 

4.3. Recommend using a NORSAT Model 4708C 


6. L-band Splitter: CAUTION TERMINATE ALL UNUSED PORTS 


6.2. Recommend using a Channel Master 1x4 Model 24141FD 


7.1. 20dB gain from .9 ��1.75 (GHz) 





Equipment needed for Direct to Sailor (DTS) C-band reception 

1. Dish size: 1.2 meter 

2. MidBand Gain: 43.6 dBi 

4-9


3. Feedhorn C-band Left Hand Circular Polarization (LHC) 


4.1. Noise Temperature: 20� K (+ -) 5� K 

4.2. LO Stability: 500 kHz (+ -) 100 kHz 

4.3. Recommend using a NORSAT Model 8520C or California Amplifier 

Model 140194. 


6. L-band Splitter: CAUTION TERMINATE ALL UNUSED PORTS 


6.2. Recommend using a Channel Master 1x4 Model. 24141FD 


7.1. 20dB gain from .9 ��1.75 (GHz) 





Some New Terms You Should Know and Understand 

Moving into the new digital age will require a basic understanding of a few new 

terms that make up this new technology. The following is a brief explanation of 

some of the new digital acronyms and language that you will come across and 

need to understand. 

(1) Receiver/Decoder Threshold: Unlike traditional analog 

Receiver/Decoder, where the unit continues to deliver a picture even when 

it is operating below the receiver/decoder threshold, digital systems will 

not operate below their minimum threshold. The difference being, in the 

analog world the picture quality will deteriorate from crystal clear, to noisy 

(sparkles) without total loss of picture. The digital receiver will not show 

signs of weakened signals and it will have a digital cliff where the signal is 

no longer processed and is discarded. Therefore, you cannot rate the 

quality of the signal by comparing it with how good the video is, it’s always 

the same above the threshold. 

(2) Bit Rate: This is the amount of data information being transmitted in one 

second of time. The total stream passing through a single satellite 

transponder consists of as many as ten TV services and associated audio, 

auxiliary audio services, conditional access data, and auxiliary data 

services such as teletext. The informational bit rate for this transmission 

may be as high as 49 mega (million) bits per second (Mb/s) over a 36 

MHz satellite transponder. Single video signals within this bit stream will 

4-10


have a lower bit rate. For example, a VHS quality movie can be 

transmitted at a bit rate of 1.544 Mb/s (T-1); general entertainment 

program at 3.0 Mb/s; live sports with a lot of motion at 4. or studio quality 

at a rate of more than 8 Mb/s. 

(3) Bit Error Rate (BER): Measured in exponential notation, the BER 

expresses the performance level of the digital receiver. For example, a 

lower BER of 0.0 E-6 is superior to a BER of 1.0 E-3. The lower the BER, 

the greater the receiver/decoder’s ability to perform well during marginal 

reception conditions, such as during a heavy rainfall or wind gusts. 

Depending on which model of Scientific Atlanta Integrated Receiver 

Decoder (IRD) being used, the quality of the received signal is 

represented in BER or a signal quality scale of 1-10; 10 being the best. 

The 9223 will represent signal quality in BER and the 9234 set-top 

measures quality on a scale of 1 to 10. 

Sun Outages 

A sun outage is similar in behavior to a rain fade. The high energy level and 

broadband nature of the sun's energy can overpower a satellites downlink signal 

and effectively wash out a receive signal with noise. This problem is technically 

impossible to overcome at this time. 

Due to the angle of the sun in relationship to the satellite, a sun outage is actually 

a mixture of degraded receive performance with the possibility of a circuit outage. 

A circuit outage might be typically 20% of the total predicted sun outage duration 

period. Many factors influence how robust a receive circuit may be, therefore it is 

extremely difficult to predict exactly how long an outage might possibly be. The 

digital nature of the AFRTS signal means that you’ll either have very good signal 

or none at all with very short periods of degraded “pixilated” signal. 

At certain times of year, approximately one month either side of the spring and 

autumn equinoxes, there may be a conjunction of the sun and satellite positions. 

Depending upon the size of the earth station antenna, such events can lead to a 

serious impairment of the space-earth link. 

The outages typically last only a few minutes at a time once a day with a normal 

worse case outage of about ten to fifteen minutes. Outages will affect each link in 

multi-hop circuits. For example viewers in Europe or the Indian Ocean area 

would be affected by an outage of first, the Atlantic satellite and then secondly, of 

the actual satellite feeding their antenna. 

Antennas should not be adjusted or re-pointed at these lost-of-signal times. The 

viewer should wait out the outage until the sun finishes passing directly behind 

the satellite. 

RF Interference in Digital Networks 

The transmission of digitally compressed video over satellite allows many high 

quality video signals to be transmitted in a satellite transponder, which formerly 

could accommodate only a single high quality video signal. The “compression” of 

4-11


these services into a narrow bandwidth causes some inevitable trade-offs in the 

complexity of both the transmit and receive earth stations. Transmit earth 

stations must be equipped with tremendously complex video “encoders” which 

digitize and compress the large amounts of video and audio information into a 

much smaller bandwidth. Receive earth stations must be compatible with the 

reception of a wide band digital carrier. While most Television / Receive-Only 

(TVRO) earth stations are compatible with the digital video technology, some will 

be susceptible to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI), sources which were not 

significant with analog video transmissions. 

In the traditional analog world, interference was spread across a much broader 

information base where individual elements of information were less critical. With 

digital compression, much more information is transmitted in a compressed 

format, which increase the importance of each “Information packet”. Digital 

compression signals react differently to problems caused by RF Interference in 

the RF (Radio Frequency) path as compared with traditional analog video 

signals. Where RF Interference caused either a white line, sparkle or “hum” bar 

in the Analog video realm, in the digital domain it can result in digital artifacts 

such as “blocking”’ and/or a “black screen” or “freeze frames” depending upon 

the magnitude and duration of the interference and the concealment algorithms 

used. 

TVRO sites experiencing RFI do not always experience any observable effects. 

A typical transponder operating with a compressed digital video signal may 

contain up to 8 television programs. Although one might expect each of these 

signals to be 8 times as susceptible to RFI as a traditional analog signal; in 

practice the signals are of a higher quality (for a given antenna size) than 

traditional analog transmission due to the sophisticated error correction and 

concealment algorithms employed. 

Much has been learned about the cause and mechanics of many external 

interfering sources that enter through the antenna and associated subsystems. 

This paper will help identity potential origins of RF Interference in addition to 

providing methods of reducing the effects of interference on the satellite carrier. 

While it is impossible to eliminate RFI, there are ways in which to both reduce the 

level of interference and conceal the event so that it has the least amount of 

perceived effect on the video. 

We will address two major interference scenarios, which may be caused by a 

number of ground-based sources. These sources and their method of interaction 

with a typical receive terminal are explained. Several methods of reducing the 

interference and its effects are also explored. 

The two types of RFI encountered are Destructive Interference (DI) and Out of 

Band Interference (OBI). Destructive interference is encountered when the 

desired receive signal is completely overwhelmed, or disrupted, by an interfering 

signal (or noise source) in the channel of the desired signal, and at a level equal 

to or greater than the desired signal. Out of Band Interference is defined as a 

signal (or noise source) which does not interact directly with the desired signal, 

4-12


but interacts with other components of the receive system such that the desired 

signal is impaired or destroyed. Both DI and OBI may originate from the same 

sources. An interfering carrier from a terrestrial microwave system may act as DI 

on a carrier at one frequency, and an OBI on carrier at another frequency at the 

same TVRO site. 

Current Technology 

Digital video compression receivers differs from traditional FM video receivers in 

that they receive video and audio signals that are digitized, compressed and 

modulated using Quadrature Phase Shift Keyed (QPSK) digital modulation. This 

technique allows the transmission and reception of several high quality video 

channels and associated audio in a 36MHz transponder. In comparison, 

traditional analog FM modulation provides only one video and its associated 

audio signals to be transmitted per transponder. 

Error Correction 

Because of the increased capacity attained using digital compression and 

transmission, special error protection is used to either correct errors or provide 

concealment when the error rate exceeds the capability for the decoder to 

provide complete correction. To detect and correct errors caused by thermal 

noise, a technique called soft decision convolutional decoding is used. The IRD 

and associated up-link equipment use a convolutional encoder to provide error 

correction to thermal noise down to about 7 dB C/N. Also, to protect against burst 

noise interference, a special data interleave and Reed Solomon block decoder 

are used. The combination provides error correction to burst interference outages 

that can be caused by engine ignition noise, industrial microwave oven 

interference, and adjacent band interference from such sources as aircraft radar 

altimeters. 

Because there may be instances when the error rate is high enough so that not 

all errors can be corrected, the IRD contains sophisticated software algorithms 

that provide image concealment for small-uncorrected errors, and either freeze 

frames or black-frame substitution for larger uncorrected errors. 

The FM Analog equivalent to digital errors is the well-known “white line” or 

“sparkles that appears on the TV screen when the received signal level drops 

below the FM threshold of about 10dB C/N. Unlike analog transmission where 

the “white lines” or “sparkles” are superimposed on the video, uncorrected digital 

errors can create a loss of digital synchronization resulting in outages that can 

last longer than the actual duration of the interference. It is during these 

instances that image concealment is important Typically, instead of a single 

“white fine” or “sparkle”, a digital error can result in the generation of artifacts 

ranging from ”no perceptible error” to “multiple block errors” that look like FM 

threshold sparkles to “freeze frames” or “black screens” for really significant 

errors. 

4-13


Reacquisition 

Improvements in technology against terrestrial interference focus on two primary 

areas, reacquisition of the carrier, and concealment. Reacquisition deals with the 

time it takes to reacquire the carrier, decode and restore video after an RFI “hit” 

takes place. Reduction of the reacquisition time to its lowest value is the 

objective in any design consideration. 

Concealment 

Concealment deals with the methods employed in the IRD as it relates to video 

presented to the viewing audience during the reacquisition period. Various 

approaches can be employed, use of a “black screen”, displaying digital artifacts, 

or freezing the video frame are all methods that can be used to display video 

during the reacquisition sequence. 

Sources of Interference 

There are a variety of sources of interference, which can affect a digital 

compression path. Identification of the interfering source is an important step in 

the goal of reducing the effects of RF interference on the desired signal. 

Interference can have two effects on a digital carrier: 

1) Compression or saturation of the RF receiving equipment including LNA’s, 

LNB’s, line amplifiers, and RF Tuner inside the IRD. 

2) Direct corruption of the digital carrier. 

There are three areas, which need to be addressed in protecting the digital 

carrier against interfering sources: 

1. Protection from saturation or compression in the RF path 

2. Error correction and reacquisition of the digital carrier 

3. Concealment with regard to the source material displayed to the 

viewing audience. 

The following section details the potential sources of RF Interference. 

Terrestrial Microwave Interference 

Much of the world’s populated areas are utilizing terrestrial microwave signals. 

These signals range from typically 2 GHz to 15 GHz with a major concentration 

in the 3.1 GHz to 4.99 GHz band. Terrestrial microwave transmitter/antennas will 

be located at or near places of commerce, metropolitan areas, near airports, or 

large industrial facilities. Microwave repeaters may be found at intermediate 

points in the path throughout populated and often times unpopulated regions. 

Most terrestrial microwave interference manifests itself as a single modulated or 

unmodulated carrier, and is readily observable in the C-band pass band of the 

system with a Spectrum analyzer. A site survey should be performed prior to final 

location of the earth station to ensure that terrestrial microwave carriers will not 

be a problem. Microwave interference may require relocation of the satellite- 

4-14


receiving antenna into a “clear” path. Should the presence of these carriers be 

detected prior to site location, they can be treated as part of the satellite link 

analysis to evaluate their affect on performance. 

Impulse and Ignition Noise 

A digitally compressed video signal can be susceptible to interference from 

impulse generators. Some typical sources of impulse noise are power equipment 

(power generators) or ignition noise from engines (vehicles, motorcycles, 

mopeds, lawn mowers, power blowers). Spark emissions cover a wide band of 

RF frequencies including C-band and can enter through the satellite dish and 

LNB. These emissions can originate from engines where broken, intermittent or 

“arcing” spark plug cables are used. Ignition wires are typically resistive wires 

that dampen RF radiation, however a broken or intermittent ignition wires can arc 

and emit excessive radio interference. Ignition “burst noise” can last in excess of 

1 millisecond, exceeding the interleave depth of the error correction system 

designed into the IRD and can have a power level 40 dB higher than the satellite 

carrier. The repetition rates greater than once every 70 millisecond have been 

detected. 

When planning an earth station you should site the station well away from 

sources of ignition interference such as busy roads, highways, intersections, or 

car parks. You may want to restrict the use of gasoline-powered lawn mowers 

and other combustion engines during peak usage hours. 

Because ignition noise represents broadband interference an operator 

experiencing ignition noise should address both the issue of saturation as well as 

attempt to reduce the magnitude of the interfering source. To address saturation, 

attenuators should be utilized both at C-band (if used) and L-band. An interfering 

carrier from a automobile ignition can be more than 40 dB higher than the 

receiving signal and saturate LNB’s, line amplifiers and the RF tuner in the 

satellite receiver. Severe ignition noise problems can be addressed by relocation 

of the receiving antenna, use of an “earth berms”, or installation of an RFI 

grounded fence between the interfering sources and the earth station antenna. 

Aircraft Radar Altimeters/Airport Ground Radar 

If your downlink antenna is located near an airport or flight path your system can 

pick up interfering carriers from aircraft radar altimeters. The radar altimeter 

Spectrum is 4.200 to 4.400 GHz. This corresponds to 750 to 950 MHz at the Lband 

output of the LNB. These carriers have been measured in excess of 

+40dBc relative to the desired satellite carrier. This kind of interference often 

results in the saturation of any line amplifiers to the extent that the amplitude of 

the desired Spectrum is reduced below a measurable level. The effects of this 

interference may last several seconds until the aircraft passes out of the earth 

station antenna beam. The interference appears as a chirp or energy spread 

over the indicated Spectrum. It is first observed as a low level signal and 

gradually builds to its maximum level before gradually diminishing. 

4-15


These interfering carriers are usually out-of-band and can be dealt with by 

installing a C-band block filter that can be specifically manufactured for greater 

protection at the aircraft radar frequency. 

Other potential sources of interference from airports are ground looking radar 

that can saturate LNA/LNB’s. Frequency coordination in some countries allow for 

adjacent bands to be utilized where they can cause out-of-band interference. 

Once again, C-band band pass or block filters remain an effective means of 

controlling the interfering carrier. 

Ship-board Radar 

Another potential source of interference in coastal areas is shipboard naval 

radar. Usually, this on-board radar is not supposed to be utilized within a radius 

of the shore; however, there are documented cases where this radar has been 

“turned on” with deleterious effects to the local coastal viewing audience. 

Commercial Microwave Ovens 

Commercial microwave ovens operating in fast-food chains and earth station 

lunchrooms are potential sources of interference. Emissions levels allowed by a 

microwave oven can be as much as 20 dB higher than a C-band satellite carrier; 

however, microwave oven manufactures are normally required to replace units 

that are known to interfere with commercial broadcast systems. A typical 

operating frequency for a microwave oven is 2250 MHz with a considerable 

amount of wide band noise generated in the 3900 MHz to 4500 MHz range. This 

noise can become more apparent over the life of the magnetron and can be 

prevalent near the end of its useful life. 

Walkie-Talkies 

Walkie-talkies have been observed to interfere with the operation of IRDs. 

Operating a walkie-talkie in the vicinity of the IRD can interfere with the operation 

of the IRD. Restricted use of walkie-talkies is recommended in the vicinity of a 

downlink earth station. 

Cell Phones 

Cell (Cellular) Telephones operate in the 900 Mhz range and can directly 

interfere with the down converted (IF) signal from the LNB to the IRD. The 

activation of a cell phone unit near the IRD may generate unacceptable 

destructive or out of band interference which may enter the IRD through poorly 

shielded cabling or improperly terminated dividers and connectors. 

Random RFI (Fluorescent and Sodium Vapor Lamps, Lightning) 

Particularly on start-up, fluorescent lamps can flicker causing an interfering 

source to an earth station antenna nearby. Another potential source is sodium 

vapor lamps when in a “failed” condition. Lightning is another known source of 

RFI that can effectively wipeout both digital and analog carriers. Though these 

sources are not a common occurrence, they should be mentioned in the 

investigation of a RFI occurrence. 

4-16

Protection from Interference 


Selecting a site 

Site selection is the most important pro-active stop an earth station operator can 

take in prevention of terrestrial interference. Busy roads and highways, parking 

lots, power generators, and power equipment near the receiving antenna are all 

potential sources of interference. Sites located near airports may need special 

consideration due to aircraft radar altimeters. 

Saturation and Compression 

Many traditional earth station operators in the analog environment are concerned 

with obtaining the highest signal level possible for their analog receiving 

equipment High signal levels in the digital environment can be problematic where 

terrestrial interference is present 

Ignition noise is a common problem where saturation can occur in the RF path. 

Interfering carriers can potentially be 40 dB higher than the satellite carrier 

resulting in compression of the RF subsystems. 

Optimizing signal levels through the use of C-band and L-band attenuator pads 

to increase the “headroom” of the system where RFI is found can dramatically 

improve performance of the receiving equipment. Installation of 6dB and 10dB 

pads in front of line amplifiers, block down converters, and video 

receiver/decoders can provide the additional “headroom” needed to prevent 

saturation during a RFI hit. Operating IRD’s in a “low gain” mode is another 

useful way to add additional “headroom” for RFI “hits”. 

Many earth station operators utilize line amplifiers in traditional analog systems, 

which can aggravate the effect of RFI and compression. Signals that are spiked 

due to RFI in combination with a high gain line amplifier can saturate 

downstream block down converters and RF tuners inside the IRD. Optimization 

of the RF path, including line amplifiers is necessary when combating RFI. 

Out-of-band Filtering 

For sites experiencing aircraft radar or out-of-band interference, C-band filtering 

in front of the LNA/LNB is an effective way to protect from interfering carriers. 

Special notch filters have been made for aircraft radar that are effective in those 

specific locations near airports or aircraft approaches. 

RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) Fencing 

Special RFI fencing can often reduce the source of interfering carriers or ignition 

noise where it is present Wire fences of the proper diameter, located between the 

interfering source and the earth station antenna can be an effective way of 

dealing with terrestrial interference. Fences that can be utilized for RFI protection 

can be as simple as fine wire mesh of galvanized steel, property grounded that 

roughly meets the desired dimensions of 1/10 wavelength beyond cutoff of the Cband 

carrier. It is important to install the fence at the proper height and distance 

4-17


from the earth station antenna, with special attention being paid to the 

construction, (galvanized steel is preferred). 

A wire mesh fence, property constructed, will scatter-back and absorb the energy 

and appear to the interfering signal much like a solid sheet of metal. The 

optimum dimension for the mesh fencing is a mesh size smaller than 1.27cm, 

(1/2 inch), which offers adequate protection at C-band. 

To block ignition impulse noise from a busy street or parking lot, a galvanized 

steel fence with a mesh size smaller than 1.27cm (1/2 inch), should be grounded 

with copper grounding rods or chemical ground system. The wire fence in 

combination with the ground system should accommodate a wide variation of RF 

emissions generated from engine ignition systems. Effective fences that have 

also been utilized in the past are fine wire mesh and solid thin sheet metal 

barriers. 

Earth Berms 

A more drastic but very effective manner to protect from terrestrial interference is 

the use of earth berms. Placing the antenna below ground level, while more 

costly and not always practical, it still provides an excellent manner in which to 

protect the integrity of the receiving signal from RFI. 

When constructing a “earth berms” careful considerations should be given to the 

side lobes of the antenna since the noise temperature of the earth is much higher 

than that of the dark sky. The surrounding earth in the earth berms may cause a 

noise figure degradation if it is not significantly outside of the antenna side lobe. 

Summary 

Digital Video Compression systems will continue to be the choice for future 

satellite video broadcasting because of the bandwidth efficiency and 

unsurpassed video quality. The traditional FM analog approach to earth 

station operation will enter a new era with the advent of video 

compression. Many video earth station operators are learning the same 

sensitivities to RFI as the traditional digital common carriers (IDR) 

networks used in the telecommunications industry. Through education of 

earth station operators, adaptation to the environment, and advances in 

technology, digital compression systems will become the standard in 

satellite video broadcast delivery throughout the world. Education and 

understanding of the effects of terrestrial interference, and its prevention, 

are the most important steps in achieving the high standard of service 

demanded by subscribers in the worldwide marketplace. 

Table 4-1 Spectrum Analyzer Setup 

1. Connect the input of the spectrum analyzer with a T-connector between the LNB and 

the receiver. Caution: This will put 13-19 volts DC on the input of the spectrum 

analyzer and could damage it. To prevent this from happening use a DC blocker on 

4-18


the input of the analyzer while still feeding the LNB with the required receiver DC 

voltage. This will allow you see spectrum plot for the signal you intend to capture. 

2. Set the frequency to satellite L-band frequency between 950 MHz and 1450 MHz. 

3. Span to 100 MHz. 

4. Amplitude to –45 dB 

5. Vertical scale to 1 dB per scale. If signal is out of range adjust accordingly 

a. Freq. Mode 

b. Frequency 

c. Polarization 

d. FEC Rate 

e. Symbol Rate 

f. L.O. Freq 

g. Video Standard (NTSC) 

Table 4-2 Typical Satellite Receiver Setup 

9234 9223 

4-19 

a. Band 

b. L-band Freq 

c. Polarization 

d. FEC Rate 

e. Symbol Rate 

f. L.O. Freq 

g. Video Standard (NTSC)


Table 4-3 Bit Error Rate (BER) to Threshold Margin Table 

Bit Error Rate Reading SatNet FEC ¾ DTS FEC 2/3 

2.00E-02 -- 0.22 

1.00E-02 0.36 1.44 

5.00-03 1.36 2.36 

2.00-03 2.38 3.36 

1.00E-03 3.12 4.10 

5.00E-04 3.78 4.76 

2.00E-04 4.56 5.54 

1.00E-04 5.08 6.10 

5.00E-05 5.58 6.60 

2.00E-05 6.14 7.12 

1.00E-05 6.50 7.48 

5.00E-06 6.78 7.78 

2.00E-06 7.18 8.18 

1.00E-06 7.42 8.46 

Note: The information shown is the amount of margin, in dB, over the DVB specification threshold 

for a given BER display. For example, a BER reading of 5.00E – 04 on a SATNET decoder 

provides 3.78 dB of margin over the Eb/No threshold of 5.5 dB or a total Eb/No of 9.28 dB. At the 

same BER, DTS provides 4.76 dB of margin over the Eb/No threshold of 5.0 dB for a total Eb/No 

of 9.76 dB. 

Scientific Atlanta developed the table from actual testing of decoders over a range of symbol 

rates. The standard deviation is 0.2 dB. 

4-20


Chapter 5 Procedures for finding the AFRTS ® digital 

satellite signals 

The intent of this section is to aid in overcoming the difficulties of pointing a 

satellite antenna at an object 22,300 miles from earth. It contains step-by-step 

satellite dish pointing guidance, receiver setup procedures and a trouble-shooting 

guide. It is understood there are varying degrees of experience in setting up 

satellite systems, so this is written as a general procedure. Take a couple of 

minutes to read and familiarize yourself with the content of this section before 

making adjustments to your system. If the dish is installed in military housing or 

where other AFRTS dishes are installed one can get an idea of the compass 

heading (azimuth) and elevation that others are using. It is important to 

understand that the dish must be accurately pointed and the set-top receiver 

correctly programmed before signals may be received. 

There are currently four different models of digital IRD’s: two consumer set-top 

models and two commercial quality rack mount models. Please be aware that 

there are setup differences and they are noted where appropriate though out this 

chapter. Appendix D of this document will list out the receiver settings for each 

receiver and area around the world. 

Obtaining your site Azimuth and Elevation 

Aiming a satellite antenna is basically the same principle used to aim a TV 

antenna, with just a few new terms to deal with. Direction to a satellite from an 

earth station site is typically expressed as “Azimuth”, the compass heading East 

or West in the site horizontal plane, and “Elevation”, the angular amount up from 

the site horizon, or the angular amount of tilt. The larger the antenna, the more 

critical it becomes to aim accurately, but offers more gain and therefore better 

signal reception. If you can’t find information in appendix C regarding your site 

azimuth and elevation, call HQ AFRTS at commercial (703) 428-0268, DSN 328- 

0268 or the AFRTS-BC 24 hours a day at commercial (951) 413-2236, DSN 348- 

1236. 

Step One: IRD Authorization 

The first step in getting your IRD to work is to have its Tracking Identification 

(TID) number entered in the AFRTS decoder database by logging into 

https://pvconnect.net, if Internet service is not available call AFRTS-BC 24 hours 

a day at (951) 413-2339, DSN 348-1339 or AFRTS-HQ during normal working 

hours east coast time at (703) 428-0616, DSN 328-0616. 

Step Two: Finding a Clear line of Sight 

(a) Two tools are required to survey your site location, a magnetic compass, 

and angle locator. If you can’t locate an angle finder gauge see figure 5-6, 

“Use of Protractor”. 

(b) Go outside to the antenna site and hold your compass flat in your hand. 

Rotate the compass to get the ”N” (north) and the pointer to align, see 

5-1


figure 5-1. You should keep the magnetic compass away from metal when 

using it. 

Figure 5-1 Satellite Pointing Tools 

(c) Locate the mark on the compass that corresponds to the azimuth number 

for your location. Satellites are located in space above the earth’s equator 

so you generally must aim toward the equator. Appendix D contains look 

angles for many locations around the world. They are all based on 

magnetic headings. 

(d) Point or aim in the direction of your azimuth setting. 

(e) Raise your arm to approximately the elevation angle, use angle gauge for 

reference. This is the direction and elevation of your antenna. Sight down 

your arm to ensure a clear path. Trees or buildings should not block your 

antenna; otherwise your site will not be a suitable location. Trees will block 

the signal so take into consideration their future growth. 

(f) At this point exact aiming is not important the dish is being pointed in a 

general direction to allow for the installation of connection cables. 

Step Three: Connecting the Antenna and Receiver 

(a) Locate the receiver (IRD) and TV/monitor beside the antenna for 

aligning purposes. Running an AC power cord out to the antenna site will 

make the task of finding the satellite and peaking the signal much simpler. 

5-2


Figure 5-2 Installation Parts 

(b) Connections from receiver to antenna are made using RG-6 coax cable 

and “F” type connectors. Thinner RG-59 coax cable can be used at 

lengths up to 50ft. or less, but is not recommended for longer runs due to 

the amount of signal lost. “F” type connectors should be of the 

compression type to ensure a good shield/ground connection. These 

compression connectors require a special tool for assembly. Preassembled 

RF cables are available for purchase in common lengths. Only 

finger tighten the connections. Leave enough slack in the cables so that 

the dish may move back and forth and up and down. 

Figure 5-3 IRD Connections 

NOTE: It is extremely important and cannot be over emphasized the 

importance of quality cabling and connectors; this is a must. The move to 

the digital world has made us aware of the necessity for quality 

workmanship and the penalties paid if neglected. If ignored, expect to 

have problems with your system having occasional interruptions and 

possibly total loss of service. On the other hand, if your installation is a 

5-3


quality one, as it should be, the benefits are cleaner video and compact 

disk equivalent quality audio. 

(c) Connections from the 9234 or 9834 set top IRD model receiver can be 

made using standard RCA audio and video cables in the case of a monitor 

or RG-59 coax cable for RF connection in the case of a television. On the 

9234 models the change the LNB power located on the back of the 

receiver to the “on” position. For the 9223 switch it to the 19 (left) for Cband 

(DTS and SatNet) users and to the 13/19 for Ku-band (Hotbird and 

Pacific Direct to Home) users. For the model 9834 the setting is done in 

software. Appendix D has the technical details on antenna requirements 

and receiver polarization menu settings. 

Initial Antenna Setup and Adjustments 

(d) At this point you should have made all 

electrical and mechanical connections and 

know your azimuth and elevation settings. 

On most satellite antenna mounts there is 

a scale that will read the elevation of the 

antenna, set your site elevation using this 

scale. It is critical that the antenna be 

mounted straight up and down for this 

Figure 5-4 Antenna angle display 

scale to be accurate enough to set the 

antenna on the correct elevation. If not, 

your azimuth and elevation adjustments will be off by the amount of error 

that’s induced by the installation of the mount. Just to give you some kind 

of idea of the accuracy required, a one-inch movement of the lip of a 5foot 

antenna results in a full degree misalignment in the antenna’s 

direction. An error of that magnitude will certainly make the difference 

between an excellent signal and no reception at all. Satellites are spaced 

at only two degrees apart; therefore, it is very easy to be on the wrong 

satellite. If you do not have an elevation scale on the antenna mount, you 

can buy an angle meter/gauge at hardware stores, from the Internet, or 

lumber yards. If you cannot locate an angle gauge, you can make your 

own see figure 5-5 to use a common protractor. 

5-4

Figure 5-5 Look angle adjustment 

shown in figure 5-3. 


5-5 

This is a good time to note; if you ever 

see the Signal State change from No 

Lock to Lock + Sig, whatever you do, 

do not change your antenna position. 

The signal status will not change to 

Lock + Sig unless your receiver is 

locked to the AFRTS satellite signal. 

Even after you go to the main menu 

and the IRD will not authorize, still do 

not change the antenna position, you 

may have other problems. Slight 

adjustments to improve the signal are 

discussed in Step 5. 

Step Four: Locating the Satellite 

(a) If you haven’t already done so, 

locate your satellite receiver and TV 

close to the antenna and connect as 

(b) If you have a spectrum analyzer, connect it to the antenna. A spectrum 

analyzer is an expensive and complex piece of test equipment normally found 

at a television station but normally not used by home installations. See Table 

4-1 for analyzer setup details. 

(c) Switch the TV/Monitor and Receiver power to the on position and tune the 

TV to view the receiver (IRD) menu screen. 

(d) Perform decoder setup instructions found in this back of this chapter. Dish 

pointing information for all regions served by SATNET and DTS can be in 

appendix C. It is best to begin with the IRD set at the “Installer Menu” for the 

9223, the “Receiver Setup” menu for the 9234, and the “Preset and LNB 

Setup” menu for the 9834/9835. 

Basically you need to know which signal you want to use and then adjust the 

receiver to the proper parameters. The 9834 and 9835 have built-in presets to 

assist you with this process. 

The green signal LED on the front of the IRD and the Signal Status menu are 

the first and most reliable indicators of receiving the satellite signal. It is best 

to use the signal status menu window for signal verification during the 

antenna tuning process. On the 9834 and 9835 the signal LED is located near 

the center of the display and will light when the signal is locked in and 

authorized, blink when the signal is locked in but not authorized, and not light 

when no signal has been found. 

(e) Set the elevation on your antenna using the scale located on the back of 

the antenna or use the protractor method if the antenna is not marked. Note: 

when adjusting the elevation angle of an offset dish, subtract the 

manufacture’s offset angle from the elevation angle provided for reference.


You’ll have to do this if using the protractor method. Most offset dish 

manufacturers supply a gauge on the antenna mount that automatically 

makes this correction for you, see figure 5-4. 

(f) If necessary, loosen the nuts on the antenna support pole so that the 

antenna can rotate easily left and right. 

(g) Hold the compass flat in the palm of your hand away from the antenna 

and any large metal object. 

(h) Rotate the compass so that the “N” (North) is under the dark point of the 

compass pointer or arrowhead, see figure 5-6.Your compass is now aligned 

with the north and the marks around the edge of the compass represents 

azimuth degrees. 

(i) Locate the mark on the compass that corresponds to the azimuth number 

for your site location. 

(j) Swing the antenna in the direction 

of your azimuth (compass) heading, 

use the LNB that sticks out from the 

dish center as your pointer. Try to 

make this adjustment as accurately 

as you possibly can. It usually helps 

to pick an object that is several 

hundred feet away from your antenna 

that aligns with the antenna mounting 

pole and your azimuth heading, see 

figure 5-6. 

(k) After making azimuth 

adjustments, to prevent the antenna 

from moving, lightly tighten those 

bolts down. 

Figure 5-6 Azimuth setting 

If you are lucky enough to have a 

locked signal at this point, exit from 

the Installer/Receiver Setup Menu to the main menu and set the IRD to a known 

video channel. The IRD will not authorize immediately, so give it a couple of 

minutes to do so. If after a couple of minutes the IRD does not authorize, check 

the customer settings in appendix D for your region and see step six for 

troubleshooting. As indicated above, Lock + Sig is proof that your antenna is 

locked on the satellite. All other problems are associated with the IRD setup or 

authorization in the AFRTS database. 

Step Five: Peaking the Antenna 

(a) Perform this procedure only after getting Lock + Sig in the Installer or 

Receiver Setup menu. If no Lock + Sig go to step seven. 

5-6


(b) Mark your antenna’s azimuth and elevation settings with a magic marker 

pen for reference. This is done as precaution, just in case you totally loose 

the signal during the fine-tuning phase. 

(c) Slowly tilt the antenna forward and backward (elevation) and set for 

maximum “Signal Level” and “BER/Signal Quality” levels moving the 

antenna’s edge by just a half and inch or less. Signal quality or BER is the 

most important to maximize. Remember, BER of 0.0 E-2 is bad and 0.0 E- 

6 is perfect, and Signal Quality 1-10, with 10 being the best. 

(d) Do the same for azimuth, left and right again moving the dish in very slight 

amounts. 

(e) Repeat steps 2 and 3 at least two times each. 

(f) Tighten the bolts down with a wrench to prevent movement. 

Step Six: Troubleshooting 

If the Signal State is not displaying Lock + Sig do the following: 

(a) Check to see if the LNB Power switch on the back of the set is set to the 

ON position for a 9234. For a 9223, the IRD has three Power positions: 19, 

OFF, and 13/19 Volt positions, do the following, for C-band users set it to the 

19 Volt position, for Ku-band users set it to the 13/19 Volt position. On the 

9834 and 9835 the voltage is controlled by the software in the menu PRESET 

& LNB SETUP. 

(b) Also, ensure your antenna is polarized correctly for the signal you intend 

to receive. Note: For Ku-band users (direct to home customers in Europe, 

Japan and Korea) the receiver voltage can switch the antenna polarization 

from vertical to horizontal within the receiver setup menu (13 Vertical-19 

Horizontal). 

(c) If this was your problem, the green signal light on front of the IRD will 

illuminate. Go to the Receiver Setup or Installer Menu and check to see if the 

No Signal state has change to Sig+Lock. 

(d) If you have Sig+Lock, go back to Step 5 and following those instructions. 

(e) If this was not your problem, it is time again to check the antenna position; 

perform the following: 

1. If you have a spectrum analyzer connect it per directions in Table 4-1. 

2. For those that do not have the luxury of test equipment, position your 

TV and IRD so you can work on the antenna and monitor the receiver 

status at the same time. 

3. Check the azimuth and elevation and reposition as needed. Use very 

small movements up and down, left and right. Remember that small 

adjustments will move you among satellites. You should be moving the 

dish one quarter to a half and inch measured at the edge at a time. If 

5-7


the signal level increases significantly with No lock + Signal, you are on 

the wrong satellite or the setup parameters are wrong. 

4. Remember at any time during the following procedures you get a 

locked signal (Lock+Sig) stop and mark the antenna’s azimuth and 

elevation positions. If yes go back to “Peaking the Antenna” if no 

proceed to next step (e). 

5. The following is a slow process but will result in aligning your antenna. 

6. Loosen antenna-mounting bolts so that you can move the antenna’s 

azimuth (east and west). 

7. While monitoring the Signal State (No Lock) slowly move the antenna 

from east to west. Again, if the signal state ever changes to Lock+Sig, 

stop and lock the antenna in that position and perform “Peaking the 

Antenna”. 

8. This is a long and time-consuming process to follow and adjustments 

must be made in slow, small increments. Reset the antenna’s elevation 

by repositioning by less than one degree, tilting it in ½ inch increments, 

locking it down and repeating step 12 (move slowly, east to west). 

9. Repeat Step (7) and (8) until you have a LOCKED (Lock+Sig) signal. 

10. Once you obtain a locked signal, mark the antenna’s azimuth and 

elevation with a permanent marker for future reference. 

11. After getting a LOCKED signal reposition the antenna’s azimuth and 

elevation to maximize the signal level, BER, and Signal Quality. Note: 

Set the 9234, 9834, or 9835 for the best signal quality (1-10, 10 being 

the best) and set the 9223 for the best BER (E-2 is bad and E-6 being 

the best). Also, see Step 5 “Peaking the Antenna”. 

12. Go back to “IRD Displays Sig+Lock” and perform that procedure; also 

see the “Antenna Peaking” section. 

5-8


Decoder Setup Instructions Scientific Atlanta PowerVu (Model 

9223) 

Appendix D of this document is required to set the receiver decoder as it contains 

parameters to enter into the receiver decoder based on your geographical location. 

1) Unpack the receiver decoder from the shipping box and install either in a 

rack or on a tabletop. Warning: if installed on a tabletop, do not stack units 

on top of each other, as heat buildup will cause the units to fail. Allow a 

minimum of 2 inches of air space between receivers in racks. 

2. Connect the L-band RF output from your LNB to the IRD RF IN connection. 

3. Turn the LNB power switch located on the rear of the IRD to the 19V DC 

setting. 

4. Connect a video cable from the Video Out connector on the rear of the IRD 

to the Video input on the rear of the TV monitor. Connect audio cables 

from the L-R Audio Output connectors on the rear of the IRD to L-R Audio 

Input connectors on the rear of the TV Monitor. 

5. Connect the IRD to the AC power source. A green dot will appear in the 

center of the front panel display window. Push the on/off switch, located 

on the front lower left of the IRD, to turn the IRD on. Select Channel 0. 

6. On the front panel keypad, press MENU. 

7. Press 2, to unlock the installer MENU. 

8. Press 9 to bring up the first page of the installer MENU. 

NOTE: The INSTALLER MENU consists of two pages of selectable settings 

for transponder frequency and other vital decoder specific parameters 

including a preset frequency plan. You can exit this menu at any time by 

pressing VIEW. 

9. Press CHAN UP/DN on the front left portion of the IRD to change the Band 

setting to appropriate setting for your satellite region. (See PowerVu setup 

information in appendix D of this document). 

10. Press NEXT on the front keypad to select L/C-band Freq setting on the 

menu screen. Using the keypad enter the correct L/C-band frequency 

setting for your satellite region. (Refer to appendix D) 

11. Scroll to the Polarization block, push the SELECT button to enter H 

(fixed). 

12. Press NEXT to move the arrow down to the FEC RATE. Using the 

channel up/down keys enter the correct FEC RATE for your satellite 

region. SatNet users should select ¾ and DTS users should select 2/3. 

13. Press NEXT to select SYMBOL RATE. Using the keypad enter the correct 

SYMBOL RATE for your satellite region. (Refer to appendix D) 

5-9


14. Press YES on the front keypad section and note the system will respond 

that it is saving the entries in the upper right of the TV monitor. NOTE: 

Failure to save entries will result in the system reverting to the factory 

default settings and the IRD will not authorize. 

15. Double check the changes you made to page 1 of the installer MENU 

comparing the settings with those listed in the PowerVu setup data for 

your satellite region. 

16. Press USER to select page 2. 

17. Press NEXT to select NETWORK ID. 

18. Using the keypad enter the NETWORK ID for your satellite region. (Refer 

to appendix D) 

19. Press YES to save the changes. 

20. Press USER to return to page 1, at this time the word LOCKED should 

appear next to the bit error rate line if you’re pointing to the correct satellite 

and have a good signal. 

21. Press VIEW to return to channel 0. 

22. Press CHANNEL UP/DN to toggle through each available channel. Then 

press the standBy switch once. If your system requires a software 

upgrade, it will begin automatically. Allow the system to totally download 

the updated software. (Download procedure could take up to 30 minutes) 

Once the download is complete the decoder will return to normal operation 

on the last channel that was selected prior to beginning the download. 

Important note on LNB frequencies: all C-band LNB’s have a local oscillator (L.O.) frequency of 5.150 

GHz but Ku-band LNB’s may come in many different frequencies typically 9.750 to 12.75 GHz. This 

figure is typically printed on a label on the side of the LNB. This means that if you’re attempting to watch a 

Ku-band service you need to set the decoder’s frequency using a bit of simple math. The formula to set the 

Ku-Low/Single L.O. frequency on the AFRTS decoder is the downlink frequency minus the L.O. 

frequency. As an example the downlink frequency for the NSS-6 satellite serving the Japan and Korea 

Direct to Home service area is 12.647 GHz. An LNB with a local oscillator frequency of 10.000 GHz 

would give a Ku Low/Single L.O. frequency of 2647 MHz (2.647 GHz) by working the math problem 

12.6470 – 10.000 = 2.647. The Ku-band satellites serving the European service area are Hotbirds 6 & 9 at 

13 degrees east and it has a downlink frequency of 10.775 GHz. Connecting an LNB with a local oscillator 

frequency of 9.750 would result in a receiver frequency of 1025 MHz (10.775 – 9.750 = 1.025 GHz which 

is 1025 MHz). 

5-10



9234) 

The following are quick setup instructions for Scientific-Atlanta’s Integrated 

Receiver Decoder (IRD), Model #9234 (hereafter referred to as an IRD). 

SET UP INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Unpack the IRD from the shipping box and install either on a desktop or on 

top of TV receiver. Do not plug the IRD into the power outlet yet. 

2. Connect the L-band RF output from your satellite dishes LNB to the IRD’s 

RF IN connection. 

3. Turn the LNB power switch located on the rear of the IRD to ON. 

4. If you are using a TV Monitor (a TV without ability to change channels), 

connect a video cable from the Video Out connector on the rear of the IRD 

to the Video input on the rear of the TV monitor. Connect audio cables 

from the L-R Audio Output connectors on the rear of the IRD to L-R Audio 

Input connectors on the rear of the TV Monitor. 

5. If you are using a TV Receiver (a TV with ability to change channels), 

connect a coaxial cable from the TV Out connector on the rear of the IRD 

to the VHF input on the TV. Select either TV channel 3 or 4 on the rear of 

the IRD and select that channel on your TV. 

6. Connect the IRD to a power source. Push the on/standby switch, located 

on the front lower left of the IRD, to turn the IRD on. 

7. Using the remote control, display the BSR MAIN MENU by pressing the 

Menu button. See Figure 5-7 for example. 

5-11


Figure 5-7 BSR Main Menu 

8. Display the RECEIVER STATUS MENU by pressing 2 and then SELECT, 

or move to Receiver Status using the scroll arrows on the remote control 

and press SELECT. See Figure 5-8 for example. 

Figure 5-8 Receiver Status Menu 

9. Display the RECEIVER SETUP MENU by pressing 3 and then SELECT, or 

move to Receiver Setup using the scroll arrows on the remote control and 

press SELECT. See Figure 5-9 for example. 

5-12


Figure 5-9 Receiver Setup Menu 

(shown with Japan and Korea settings) 

10. Once in the RECEIVER SETUP MENU (as shown in figure 5-9), scroll to 

the Freq Mode block and set to L-band/#1 using the SELECT button. 

11. Scroll to the L.O. Freq # 1 Block, push SELECT button to clear the entry, 

enter the appropriate L.O. Freq for your satellite region (See PowerVu 

setup information in appendix D) 

12. Scroll to the Frequency block, push SELECT button to clear the entry, 

enter the correct frequency for your satellite region. (See PowerVu setup 

information in appendix D) Push the SELECT button to store (save) the 

Frequency block setting. The L.O. Freq. #2 and crossover blocks should 

be set to N/A. 

13. Scroll to the Polarization block, push the SELECT button to enter H 

(fixed). 

14. Scroll to FEC Rate block, push SELECT button to enter appropriate FEC 

Rate for your satellite region. SatNet users should select 3/4 and DTS 

users should select 2/3. Do not push SELECT button at this time. 

15. Scroll to the Symbol Rate block, push SELECT button to clear the entry, 

enter the appropriate Symbol Rate for your satellite region. (Refer to 

appendix D) Push the SELECT button to store (save) the setting. 

16. Scroll to the Network ID block, push SELECT button to clear the entry, 

enter the appropriate Network ID for your satellite region. (Refer to step 

20) Push the SELECT button to store (save) the setting. 

17. Scroll to the Exit block and push SELECT. (A yes/no box to store settings 

will appear.) Push 1 to store the settings. This will return you to the 

Receiver Status Menu. Scroll to the Exit block on this menu and push the 

SELECT button. This will return you to the BSR MAIN MENU. Scroll to 

Exit and push the SELECT button. This will return you to normal viewing. 

5-13


18. Virtual channels can be selected using the remote control or the channel 

up/down switch located on the front of the IRD. Enter a channel number, 

e.g., 01 and push SELECT from the remote. Then press the standby 

switch once. If your system requires a software upgrade, it will begin 

automatically. Allow the system to totally download the updated software. 

(Download procedure could take up to 30 minutes) Once the download is 

complete the decoder will return to normal operation on the last channel 

that was selected prior to beginning the download. 

19. Local off-the-air reception is available through the IRD. Refer to page 3-5 

of the IRD installation manual for connecting for off-air reception. 

20. Note: the remote control must have unobstructed line-of-sight to the IRD 

for proper operation. 

Important note on LNB frequencies: all C-band LNB’s have a local oscillator (L.O.) frequency of 5.150 

GHz but Ku-band LNB’s may come in many different frequencies typically 9.750 to 12.75 GHz. This 

figure is typically printed on a label on the side of the LNB. This means that if you’re attempting to watch a 

Ku-band service you need to set the decoder’s frequency using a bit of simple math. The formula to set the 

Ku-Low/Single L.O. frequency on the AFRTS decoder is the downlink frequency minus the L.O. 

frequency. As an example the downlink frequency for the NSS-6 satellite serving the Japan and Korea 

Direct to Home service area is 12.647 GHz. An LNB with a local oscillator frequency of 10.000 GHz 

would give a Ku Low/Single L.O. frequency of 2647 MHz (2.647 GHz) by working the math problem 

12.6470 – 10.000 = 2.647. The Ku-band satellites serving the European service area are Hotbirds 6 & 9 at 

13 degrees east and it has a downlink frequency of 10.775 GHz. Connecting an LNB with a local oscillator 

frequency of 9.750 would result in a receiver frequency of 1025 MHz (10.775 – 9.750 = 1.025 GHz which 

is 1025 MHz). 

5-14



9834 and 9835) 

Both the 9834 and 9835 receivers are pre-loaded with data in pre-set locations to aid you 

in setting up either receiver. Use the proper pre-set for the signal you are attempting to 

view. You will need to record the LO frequency – the Local Oscillator frequency of the 

LNB that you are using. This is typically a number like 9.75 GHz to as high as 12.75 

GHz. The 9834 receiver has an additional high-speed data port and an Ethernet output 

which are used by AFRTS affiliates to receive data files addressed to their decoder. 

1. Unpack the receiver decoder from the shipping box and install either in a 

rack or on a tabletop. Warning: if installed on a tabletop, do not stack units 

on top of each other, as heat buildup will cause the units to fail. Allow a 

minimum of 2 inches of air space between receivers in racks. Do not plug 

the power cord into the AC outlet at this time. 

2. Connect the RF output from your satellite dish LNB to the SATELLITE 

LNB POWER connection on the rear panel on the left hand side of the 

IRD. 

3. Connect a video cable from the VIDEO connector on the rear of the IRD to 

the Video input on the rear of the TV monitor. Connect audio cables from 

the L-R AUDIO output connectors on the rear of the IRD to L-R Audio 

Input connectors on the rear of the TV Monitor. Alternatively you can run a 

cable from the TV OUT connector on the IRD to the RF input on a 

television. Signal quality isn’t quite as good as using the separate video 

and audio cables and the television set must be tuned to 3 or 4 (channel 3 

is the default). 

4. Plug the IRD into AC power and wait for about 1 minute while the receiver 

is booting up before continuing on. While the receiver is booting up, the 

front panel display will show APP and a number representing the current 

application code version. This sequence will stop once the receiver is 

ready for operation. 

5. On the front panel or using the remote control, press MENU. The main 

menu should be displayed on your television or monitor’s screen as shown 

in figure 5-10. 

5-15


Figure 5-10 9834 IRD Main Menu 

6. Use the up and down arrows on the front panel or the remote to select the 

PRESET & LNB SETUP or press the number 2 on the remote control and 

then press SELECT. 

7. Cursor over using the left and right arrows to high light the LNB Pwr. 

Press SELECT and then the up and down to choose POLARISER which 

is the automatic mode. Press SELECT again to set the LNB Pwr to 

POLARISER. The screen should now appear similar to figure 5-11. 

Figure 5-11 Preset and LNB Setup Menu 

Note: Far East viewers using pre-set 3 will have to change the 

downlink frequency to 12.647 as shown in figure 5-11. 

5-16


8. Some Ku bank LNBs will have two local oscillator or LO frequencies. Use 

the up and down arrows to cursor down to the LO Freq 1 and press select. 

Enter in the LO frequency recorded from your LNB. Press SELECT to 

accept the numbers you entered. If your LNB listed a second LO 

frequency enter that number in the same manner. You can either use the 

arrow up or down key to change the numbers or enter them in directly 

using the number buttons on the remote control. Press select to accept 

the number. 

9. Use the arrow keys to cursor over to the LO SELECT and choose 

XOVER. Press SELECT again to accept this setting. 

10. Use the left and right arrow key to cursor over to the ACTIVE setting and 

press SELECT. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the proper preset 

from the table 5-1 below. Press SELECT again to set the proper preset 

into use. 

Pre-set 

number 

Signal Region 

1 AFRTS (Hotbird) Europe 

2 Not used NA 

3 AFRTS Japan and Korea* 

4 DTS Pacific Ocean 

5 DTS Atlantic Ocean 

6 DTS Indian Ocean 

7 AFRTS Atlantic Ocean 

8 AFRTS Domestic US 

9 DTS Domestic US 

* Pre-set requires some modification see Appendix D. 

Table 5-1 IRD Pre-sets 

11. Make sure that the ACTIVE pre-set matches your desired selection and 

then use the arrow keys to cursor over to EXIT or press the 1 key on the 

remote and then press SELECT to return to the main menu. Note the 

PRESET setting has no effect on how the IRD decodes the signal – only 

the ACTIVE setting has effect. 

12. From the MAIN MENU cursor up to DISH SETUP and press select. 

5-17


Figure 5-12 Dish Setup Menu 

13. If the dish is aligned correctly you will see maximum indications on both 

SIGNAL QUALITY and SIGNAL LEVEL and should hear a steady high 

pitched tone from the television’s speaker. SIGNAL LOCK should display 

YES. See the section earlier in this chapter on peaking the satellite signal 

and later in this chapter for trouble shooting if the SIGNAL LOCK doesn’t 

read YES. 

14. Exit from the menu by selecting EXIT from the DISH SETUP and MAIN 

MENU’s. 

15. Press CHANNEL UP/DN to toggle through each available channel. Then 

press the on/standby button once. If your system requires a software 

upgrade, it will begin automatically. Allow the system to totally download 

the updated software. (Download procedure could take up to 30 minutes) 

Once the download is complete the decoder will return to normal operation 

on the last channel that was selected prior to beginning the download. 

Caution: do not unplug the LNB signal or the AC cord, nor move the dish 

while the IRD is downloading application data. Shipboard users are advised 

to accomplish the update while pier side when ever possible. 

5-18


Troubleshooting Guide 

Satellite integrated receiver decoder will not turn on. 

(1) Check to see if the receiver is plugged in to the wall jack. 

(2) Try plugging the receiver into a different electrical outlet. Be sure 

you’re not plugged into a “half hot” or “switched” outlet controlled with a 

light switch. 

(3) Plug your TV into the same outlet and see if it will power on. 

(4) Make sure the problem is not with the receiver. Turn on the receiver 

both from the front panel and with the remote. 

(5) Check the fuse box circuit breaker. 

I cannot set the receiver to the on-screen menu. 

(1) Check to see if your TV is tuned to the correct channel either channel 3 

(default) or 4 and select the same on the back of the receiver. 

(2) Check to see if you are using the correct connections from the Receiver to 

the TV. Are you using the RF (To TV) connection and connected to the 

“from antenna on the TV”. Are you connected to the Video output from the 

receiver, to the video input on the TV/monitor. 

(3) If you are using the RF connection from the receiver to the TV, tune to 

channel 3 or 4. 

(4) Turn the receiver on from the remote or the front panel. 

(5) In the receiver setup menu select NTSC. 

I cannot pick up the satellite signal 

(1) Have you gotten your receiver authorized? 

(2) Check that all signal connections from antenna, receiver, and TV are 

correct. 

(3) Make sure there are no obstructions blocking the antenna’s view to 

the satellite. Always stand behind the antenna, not in front while checking. 

Vegetation like bushes and trees will block the satellite signal. 

(4) Check that the antenna is set to the correct polarity, for example, 

horizontal, vertical, left hand circular or right hand circular. 

(5) Check the antenna azimuth and elevation settings, if wrong see “Antenna 

Pointing”. 

(6) Tune the receiver to the “Receiver Setup Menu” on the 9234 and 9834, 

the “Installer Menu” on the 9223, or the “Dish Setup” and the 9834 and 

9835 receiver model. If the signal indicator reads Sig+Lock, check the 

following for your location and service. If all of the settings below are 

correct; chances are good that your decoder isn’t authorized in the AFRTS 

decoder database; call for authorization – see this chapter’s “IRD 

5-19


Authorization”. Use appendix “D” to check these parameters. On the 

model 9834 ensure that the proper pre-set setting is being used for your 

region. 

a. Network ID 

b. FEC Rate 

c. Frequency 

d. Band 

e. L.O. 

f. Polarization 

g. Symbol Rate 

h. Video Standard is (NTSC) 

(7) If the signal indicator in the “Receiver Menu” reads No Signal check the 

cable from the antenna to the Receiver. 

(8) “Reboot” your IRD. Turn off the IRD using the remote control and then 

unplug it from the electrical power. Wait a minute and then plug the IRD 

back in and turn it on. 

(9) Rarely you might be attempting to receive the signal during either a sun 

outage or a signal outage caused by a technical problem at the up link 

site. These outages would affect an entire region at once so your 

neighbors and other service members at your command would have also 

lost signal. An easy check is to see if the signal is available at another 

receiver in your same location. A sun outage lasts only 10 to 15 minutes. 

Sun outages over the United States can affect signals in elsewhere in the 

world. 

I was receiving the satellite signal but it comes and goes or I get a lot of 

freeze frames and digital artifacts. 

This is the sign of a weak signal and can usually be traced to one of the following 

problems: 

(1) Poor connection from the Antenna to the Receiver. Wiggle the 

connections to see if you can get the signal to intermit from Loss of Signal to 

Freeze-Frames. If so, redo or replace connectors. 

(2) Antenna is not peaked for best signal strength or is too small for your 

area. See the section of this chapter on signal peaking. Your dish should 

be at least the same size as other’s who are watching AFRTS. 

(3) LNB does not meet specifications. This typically happens with a new LNB 

that has replaced a failed on or one from a brand new installation. Heat 

and cold will often cause a marginal LNB to lose signal. 

(4) Poor quality cable or connectors in use or impedance mismatch. Make 

sure that you are using the proper RF cabling between the LNB and the 

5-20


receiver. Computer network cable is the wrong electrical impedance and 

will cause signal loss. 

(5) Signal level input to the IRD is too high; optimum input is –42 dBm. This is 

very rare. 

(6) Antenna is not stable; wind moves or shakes the antenna excessively. 

Extreme weather will cause the satellite dish to move off the satellite’s 

position. 

(7) Terrestrial Interference. Typically caused by radio transmitters located in 

front of the dish. 

(8) This could be caused by a regional sun outage where the sun passes 

directly behind the satellite. At certain times of year, approximately one month 

either side of the spring and autumn equinoxes, there may be a conjunction of 

the sun and satellite positions. Depending upon the size of the earth station 

antenna, such events can lead to a serious impairment of the space-earth 

link. These outages typically last only a few minutes at a time once a day with 

a normal worse case outage of about ten to fifteen minutes. Outages will 

affect each link in multi-hop circuits. For example viewers in Europe or the 

Indian Ocean area would be affected by an outage of first, the Atlantic 

satellite and then secondly, of the actual satellite feeding their antenna. 

Antennas should not be adjusted or re-pointed at these lost-of-signal times. 

The viewer should wait out the outage until the sun finishes passing directly 

behind the satellite. 

Remote Control Problems 

The remote will not turn the receiver on or off. 

(1) Check batteries, replace if necessary. 

(2) Is the TV tuned to the correct channel (3 or 4)? 

(3) Are you using audio and video from the Receiver to the TV? If so, is your 

TV/Monitor set appropriately “line or video”. 

(4) Is there anything blocking the signal getting to the receiver from the 

remote? Remotes are Infrared and will not work if blocked by any object. 

Receiver Problems 

Receiver does not accept input on the front panel. 

(1) Check to see if receiver is set to Loc level 3 or Loc 4 and reset if 

necessary. 

5-21


Chapter 6 : Distribution of Multiple Video and Audio 

Services 

Distribution requirements for AFRTS ® Radio and Television service have 

changed dramatically with the implementation of the PowerVu digital 

compression system, which provides multiple channels of TV and audio. B-MAC 

delivered one video service over (SATNET) and a limited number of audio 

services. Most AFRTS networks distributed one channel of AFRTS Television 

over-the-air through VHF or UHF transmitters or as a single channel over cable 

systems, and radio was broadcast over one or two FM and AM transmitters. 

Although some of these delivery systems are still in use today, there is a growing 

demand to deliver as many of the expanded services now available over 

SATNET and DTS to the audience as possible. This chapter addresses the three 

major types of multi-channel delivery systems: CATV, MMDS, and Hybrid 

Satellite/Off-Air reception systems. 

The most commonly used multi-channel delivery method for both AFRTS TV and 

radio services is cable distribution. If sufficient cable bandwidth is available an 

expanded or medium to large cable system can be used to deliver both TV and 

FM radio services 

Another method for delivery of multi-channel service is Microwave Multi-point 

Distribution System or MMDS. MMDS is an effective method of delivering multichannel 

AFRTS service to authorized audience members who do not live on 

Military Compounds and are not served by a cable system; however it requires 

host nation frequency approval. In most cases AFRTS requires MMDS systems 

to be encrypted. 

A third method or receiving multiple AFRTS services is through the use of a 

combination of off-air and direct satellite reception. This method is especially 

viable in Europe where the service can be received off Hotbirds 6 and 9 using a 

80cm Ku TVRO or in the Japan and Korea service area where a NewSkies 

satellite beams a similar high power signal down to small 60cm to 100cm dishes. 

I. DOD CATV Performance Specifications and Testing 

Procedures 

Overview. This chapter describes DOD operated CATV systems, establishes 

performance standards for these systems, and promulgates standard testing 

procedures. This chapter may also be of use in monitoring commercial CATV 

systems serving DOD audiences. In the case of Commercial CATV systems, 

FCC regulations, Federal or Host Country law may affect the degree of regulation 

allowed. (Note: In the event that Host Country regulations are more stringent 

than DOD Specifications, Host Country regulations shall take precedence.) 

a. Assumptions regarding DOD Cable Systems: 

� All CATV systems utilize broadband coaxial cable technology; 

6-22


� Tree and branch, or hub and spoke architecture is used; 

� Systems carry NTSC television signals; 

� Systems may carry FM Audio signals; 

� Systems are used to carry entertainment and informational programs. 

No secure or classified material is carried. 

b. System Characteristics: 

� Forward Bandwidth: 

� Minimum 54-220 MHz {300 MHz} 

� Maximum 54-450 MHZ {750 MHz} 

2. Reverse Bandwidth: 

� Minimum 5-30 MHZ; May not be active in some systems 

Table 6-1 Downstream Channel Capacity 

Frequency Band Frequency Range Number of Available 

(MHz) 

Channels 

LO VHF 54-88 5 

FM 88-108 -- 

FM Mid Band 120-174 9 

Hi VHF 174-216 7 

Super Band 216-300 14 

Hyper Band 300-450 (750) 25 (75) 

Totals 60 (110) 

Table 6-2 Upstream channel capacity 

Frequency Band Frequency Range 

(MHz) 

6-23 

Number of Available 

Channels 

Sub Low* 5-30 4 

*Also known as “T” channels; T-7 through T-10 

II. Discussion 

CATV is a closed circuit communications system used to deliver television and 

audio signals. It delivers these to a select group of viewers - a military base, an 

individual building, an individual ship, or an individual room/compartment. Other 

types of signals can be carried on a CATV system such as data, telemetry, or


video conferencing. However, the primary purposes of the systems discussed 

here are information and entertainment. They are not appropriate for the 

transmission of signals containing sensitive or classified information. 

a. Authorization 

Since CATV is a closed system, it is allowed to use frequencies that have been 

previously authorized for over the air broadcasts. The most obvious of these are 

the over the air VHF television and FM radio frequencies. More critical are 

frequencies in the ranges of 108-137 MHz, 140-174 MHz, and 225-400 MHz. 

Commercial and governmental air and sea navigation, air traffic control, harbor 

navigation, and the U.S. Coast Guard may use these frequencies. 

b. Signal Leakage 

CATV is a secondary user of these frequencies, and is responsible for insuring 

that its use does not interfere with the primary user. This interference arises from 

signals leaking out of the CATV system. Signal leakage, or radiation, occurs 

when the physical or electrical integrity of the CATV system is compromised. 

This can occur due to cracked cables, haphazard connections, vandalism or 

unauthorized connections to the system. In CONUS, the FCC can levy fines on 

“leaky” systems, or force them to abandon certain frequencies. The FCC has not 

been reluctant to exercise this power. (In reviewing this area, the FCC has 

established a figure of merit called a “Cumulative Leakage Index” which 

accumulates all leakage data into one measure.) DOD CATV systems must be 

especially aware of signal leakage requirements due to the proximity of over the 

air users. DOD CATV must take all steps necessary to insure that its signals do 

not interfere with other frequency users. 

c. Signal Quality 

Perceived signal quality at any location can be simplified to consist of two major 

factors: first signal strength, and second signal quality. Signal strength is a simple 

measurement, but signal quality is a more complex issue. If the wrong value of 

tap has been used at a location, the signal delivered to the television may be too 

weak to deliver a good picture. Similarly, if too much drop cable is used, 

excessive attenuation could be introduced, dropping levels to an unacceptable 

level. In situations like these, using different components can allow sufficient 

signal levels to be delivered. If this has been tried with limited success, additional 

amplification may be needed. This amplification must be placed at the proper 

location in the system if any benefits are expected. Signals must be amplified 

before levels have dropped so far that quality is affected. CATV amplifiers cannot 

improve signal quality; they can only amplify signal levels. A noisy signal, 

amplified, is not going to be a better signal. It is going to be a more powerful, 

noisy signal. The key is to amplify the signal when the relative level of the signal 

is well in excess of the level of noise and any other distortions. CATV amplifiers 

themselves, add noise and distortion to the signals, a fact that the system 

designer must take into account. 

6-24


Table 6-3 Performance Standards for Acceptable CATV Operations 

Standard Requirement 

Signal levels at subscriber set 3-10 dBmV 

Carrier levels 

Single channel video vs. audio 

levels 

Audio carrier shall be 15 dBmV +/- 2 dB below 

associated video carrier 

Single channel video carrier Shall vary no more than 12 dB in any 24 hour 

period 

Adjacent channels Video carriers will be within 3 dB of any 

adjacent channel video carriers 

All channels Video levels will be maintained so that the 

maximum difference across all channels will 

be 10 db for systems up to 300 Mhz, with 1 db 

allowed for each additional 100 MHz, or 

portion; i.e. 300 – 400 MHz would allow 11 db 

maximum variation. 

Distribution System Performance 

Carrier to Noise (C/N) Any channel, greater than or equal to 43 dB 

Hum modulation Any channel less than or equal to 4% 

Hum modulation at power 

frequencies 

Any channel less than or equal to 3% 

Cross modulation Any channel greater than or equal to 53 dB 

Composite triple beat Any channel greater than or equal to 53 dB 

Signal Leakage (Radiation) 

Frequencies less than or equal to 

54 MHz 

Frequencies between 54 MHz and 

216 MHz 

Frequencies greater than or equal 

to 216 MHz 

15 mV/meter measured 100 ft. from the 

system 

20 mV/meter measured 10 ft. from the system 

15 mV/meter measured 100 ft. from the 

system 

d. System Constraints 

In most non-commercial DOD CATV systems, channel loading is usually light, 

limited to a few of the VHF frequencies. In systems of this type, perceived signal 

quality is most affected by: Signal Levels, Carrier to Noise, Hum Modulation, and 

to a lesser degree, by distortions like Cross Modulation and Composite Triple 

Beat. In more heavily loaded systems, Cross Modulation and Composite Triple 

6-25


Beat become increasingly more important. This is because these distortions arise 

from the mixing of signals in the CATV system. As the number of signals 

increases, the distortion products also increase. Navy ships are in a unique 

position as they may have a lightly loaded system when under way, but can have 

a heavily loaded system in port, if commercial CATV is available on the pier. 

III. Testing Procedures. 

The National Cable Television Association (NCTA), the CATV industry 

association in the United States, have developed procedures for testing cable 

system. The DoD has determined that these procedures reflect good engineering 

practice in the CATV industry. The standards presented are promulgated by DoD 

to define the minimum acceptable level of service for DoD CATV systems. Due to 

the wide variety of systems not all tests may be applicable to all systems. 

The Society of Cable Television Engineers has a large number of testing 

standards published at this link: http://www.scte.org/content/index.cfm?pID=59. 

Approved SCTE standards are available at no charge for electronic copies; click 

on the title of the standard to download the desired standard in PDF format. The 

standards that are more applicable to the testing of a cable distribution system 

are listed here. 

ANSI/SCTE 96 2003 (formerly IPS TP 200) Cable Telecommunications Testing 

Guidelines 

ANSI/SCTE 16 2001 (formerly IPS TP 204), Hum Modulation 

ANSI/SCTE 17 2001 (formerly IPS TP 216), Carrier to Noise (C/N, CCN, CIN, 

CTN) 

ANSI/SCTE 62 2002 (formerly IPS TP 205) Measurement Procedure for Noise 

Figure 

ANSI/SCTE 82 2003 (formerly IPS TP 220) Test Method for Low Frequency and 

Spurious Disturbances 

SCTE 119 2006 Measurement Procedure for Noise Power Ratio 

Applicability of Tests 

As noted above, different systems will need to place different emphasis on 

particular aspects of system performance. All systems must minimally monitor 

signal levels and signal leakage. Systems with light channel loading must also be 

concerned with carrier to noise and hum modulation. Systems with heavier 

channel loading must add composite triple beat and cross modulation to their 

areas of concern. If test equipment is not available, or alternate testing methods 

6-26


are desired, such as the use of automated test equipment, Detachments and 

networks should request variances within their chain of command. 

Scheduling of Tests 

Included here is a suggested timetable for testing. The schedule is for planned 

preventive maintenance. It is in addition to all demand maintenance 

requirements. Tests should be made at the system headend, and at, at least 

three locations in the distribution system, chosen to be representative of worst 

case expected service. Signal leakage must be monitored and checked through 

out the entire CATV system. Documented results of all testing should be 

maintained. This will allow for trend analysis, and will aid in transitioning. 

As of 30 JUN 95 the FCC will allow the application of three additional standards 

for measurement of the performance of a cable system. These standards are set 

at the output of the modulating or processing equipment, which in most cases 

would be at the system head end. 

Parameter Requirement 

Chrominance-luminance delay 

inequality chroma delay 

The standards are: 

Note: the FCC only requires testing demonstration this performance be completed every three 

years. 

Parameter 

Digital Television 

Many system operators are contemplating a mix of differing signal formats 

including NTSC, Encrypted NTSC, Digital, and HDTV on a single cable system. 

6-27 

Less than 179 nanoseconds 

Differential gain +/- 20% 

Differential phase +/- 10 degrees 

Frequency 

Continuously Weekly or 

Monthly 

Annually 

Signal levels X X X 

Signal leakage X X X 

Carrier levels X X 

Hum modulation X X 

Carrier to Noise X X 

Cross modulation X X 

Composite T Beat X X


Although some assumptions are well accepted (e.g. digital signal will be able to 

be run acceptably at much lower max signal levels than NTSC) overall system 

performance may be affected by the overall channel loading/channel mix. 

IV. Out of CONUS CATV 

As noted earlier, Host Country regulations and requirements should be 

determined. The most stringent requirement shall take precedence. 

V. Commercial CATV. 

As noted earlier, Commercial CATV operators, serving DOD audiences in 

CONUS locations, may be subject to additional/different technical requirements 

promulgated by the FCC or Federal law. Readers are strongly encouraged to 

familiarize themselves with all local franchises/agreements concerning CATV at 

their location. They may then check through appropriate channels for guidance 

on federal policy and law. 

6-28


Chapter 7 : Radio and Television Cueing 

AFN Broadcast Center 

Cueing for American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) Radio and 

TV is accomplished using a Wegener cueing system designed to originate radio 

and TV cues using a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) configuration. A four contact 

closure BCD system is used to produce a maximum of 15 cues on the Decoder 

side. 

For the purpose of identifying only, programs are placed into the following 

categories: normal and live or quick turn-around. 

Normal Programming: 

Normal programming includes programs that the BC has on hand long enough to 

completely process (more than 72 hours). Entertainment programs, soaps, and 

non-time-sensitive specials fit into this category. 

Part of the processing is slugging and entering times for playback. Accurate 

times are then included in the STB (Regional and Local breaks) file for normal 

programming. Program times (actually the segment duration’s only) are retrieved 

from the database and entered into the traffic management program database. 

Once entered into traffic management program, the times become a permanent 

part of the program record. Approximately 5 days prior to airdate, a file is 

exported from traffic management program that includes program information for 

each AFN network and airdate. The file includes title, subtitle, house #, and times 

for programs scheduled to air on that date. This file is imported into a traffic 

program. Once the information is loaded, the command information availabilities 

are adjusted to fill in the time slots. 

Finally, an STB file is created and placed on the FTP for downloading at affiliate 

locations. Frequently, times are not available 5 days out, but are available more 

than 72 hours prior to air-date. In these cases, the traffic log is updated and a 

new STB file is posted reflecting the update. 

Live and Quick Turn-Around Programming: 

Not all programs are available to be processed in advance, such as most 

sporting events. Live and quick turn-around programming is programming that 

the BC airs within 72 hours of acquisition. News, sports, late shows, most 

specials and other programs that are time sensitive are included in this category. 

In most cases these times are not available to the BC in advance; consequently, 

the times in the STB file are not accurate for these programs. 

Cueing within the BAS is controlled by four separate relays that are activated by 

command lines imbedded in the program playlist. These four relay commands 

are combined together in the Wegener tone encoder to generate a total of 15 

individual cues. Each cue is attached to an event in the play list and can be 

7-29


programmed to activate before or during the event. Cues for TV are attached to 

the beginning of an event and are transmitted 21 frames in advance of the 

scheduled event. 

The Wegener Tone Decoder requires 14 frames to detect a cue with an 

additional 7 frames added for startup time of automation equipment. Also, there 

are several different variables that can affect their accuracy to within +/- 2 

frames. This isn’t a problem as long as there is enough black on each end of the 

spot and the spot itself is timed correctly. 

The AFRTS standard is a minimum of 15 frames of black at the beginning and 

end of each spot to ensure a clean cut from one event to the next. This wasn’t a 

problem when the entire spot break was covered by AFRTS. Although AFRTS 

does fill the available spot interval, affiliates are sharing some of the allotted time 

and expect to return to the network during a fade up from black. This demands 

frame accurate timing and can only be accomplished if each player has correctly 

formatted their spots with the appropriate amount of black. 

All cues for TV are scheduled and initiated electronically with the exception of the 

“Return to Net” cue. This cue should be connected at all locations to bring 

locations back to Net for varying reasons. See table 6-1 for a listing of television 

service cue assignments. The majority of the time this cue is employed to bring 

affiliates back to net during live events with unknown spot intervals. Otherwise, if 

the affiliate is in the middle of a spot break and the event returns to normal 

programming the length remaining in the spot break is missed. 

Cueing for radio is also timed to frame accuracy but times aren’t as critical as for 

TV. For this reason radio cues are not transmitted in advance of the scheduled 

event. Cues for radio are scheduled in a daily template/play list and require very 

little interaction to keep current with program material. Cues are originated for 

radio within the AudioVault play list and are timed to real timecode. Cues for 

radio use the same principle of BCD function of four separate relays to produce 

15 distinct cues. See table 7-2 for a listing of radio service cue function 

assignments. The AudioVault database is capable of storing individual command 

lines for each cue assignment. Each cue is assigned an individual command line 

and shows up in the play list as a single event. 

Encoder Installation and Operation 

Cueing for American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) Radio and 

TV is accomplished using the Wegener 1601 mainframe equipped with the 

appropriate electronic package. At the Encoder the Wegener Communications 

Model 1698 Tone Encoder unit is used to originate radio and TV cues, using a 

Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) configuration. A four contact closure BCD system 

is used to produce a maximum of 15 cues on the Decoder side. The inputs 

required for various output tone combinations are listed in table 7-3. 

7-2


Table 7-1 TV Services Cue Function Assignments 

Cue Function 

1 STB (regional brake) 

2 LCL (local affiliate break) 

5 Return to network 

6 Advisory start 

8 Shared ID 

9 Soft Start Cue (arming window disenable) 

A Soft End Cue (arming window enable) 

C VCR Wakeup (5 second warning of cue 2) 

Cue “9” puts an AVID into the event stack mode; a cue “A” puts the AVID back 

into the timed playlist mode. 

Table 7-2 Radio Service Cue Function Assignments 

Cue Function 

1 Start of breakaway 

2 Top of hour 

3 Sixty second breakaway 

4 Linear five second ID 

5 Seven second ID 

6 Nine second ID 

8 End of message / stop 

9 Legal ID (top of hour) 

A Forced recall 

B End of forced B recall 

C Ballgame spots 

D Extended breakaway 

E End of ballgame 

7-3


Table 7-3 BCD Function 

Seven Segment 1 

2 

4 

8 

Display 

25 Hz Left 25 Hz Right 35 Hz Left 35 Hz Right 

1 X --- --- --- 

2 --- X --- --- 

3 X X --- --- 

4 --- --- X --- 

5 X --- X --- 

6 --- X X --- 

7 X X X --- 

8 --- --- --- X 

9 X --- X 

A --- X --- X 

B X X --- X 

C --- --- X X 

D X --- X X 

E --- X --- X 

F X X X X 

The tone encoder is used to add cue tones to program audio for transmission 

over satellite and local transmission systems. This enables AFRTS-BC to provide 

network controlled automated commercial insertions at affiliate locations. The 

duration of the output tone(s) is controlled by an enabling input. AFRTS presently 

uses Alamar to control cue duration. 

All circuits of a Model 1698 tone encoder are contained on a single level 

standard 4.25 by 12-inch printed single board. Any unit module will occupy one 

slot position of a model 1601 mainframe, a model 2601, or model 1602 

mainframe. The difference between a model 1601 and model 2601 mainframe is 

the type of back plane interface connectors used; otherwise they are nearly 

identical. 

The Model 1698 tone encoder receives stereo audio inputs from an external 

source and inserts tones on the two channels. This unit can provide 15 different 

tone output combinations by inserting selected 25 Hz and/or 35 Hz tones on the 

right, left or both audio channels (Table 7-3). The tone output selection is 

controlled using four BCD logic inputs. 

7-4


The audio level of each channel can be adjusted through front panel controls 

LEFT R67, RIGHT R61 (figure 7-2). The adjustments are the same as a 

Decoder. There is a control on the front panel to adjust the duration of selected 

tones, R134. The tones can be jumper selected (jumper J9) to either be present 

only while the BCD inputs are active, or be continuous for a duration from 

approximately 0.5 second to 5.5 seconds after the BCD inputs are removed. The 

front panel also provides a green indicator that lights when tones are being 

generated and a seven-segment display for visual identification of the selected 

tone combination. Test points on the front panel provide for monitoring of channel 

function during normal operation. 

Note: All program audio below 50Hz is stripped to allow for inserting cues tones, 

by the Wegener encoder. Therefore, processing of audio below 50 Hz. Is not 

productive and may increase the risk of unwanted cues tones in programming. 

Also, Wegener tone encoders are set at the factory at +6dB for a single 

frequency cue (25 or 35 Hz.) and +9dB for multiple frequency cues (25 and 35 

Hz. Combined) cue tone output. The AFRTS level is set to +4dB for single 

frequency cues and +6dB for multiple frequency cues. This is the absolute 

minimum level (+4dB / +6dB) allowable by Wegener without modification to the 

card for alignment cue tone levels. 

Decoder Installation and Operation 

Wegener 1645/46/47/48 tone decoder: The purpose of the tone decoder is to 

detect the presence a 25 or 35 Hz cue tone on demodulated program audio. The 

tones are transmitted by the network on program audio channels. Model 1645 is 

for 25 Hz, model 1646 is for 35 Hz detection, and model 1648 is for 25 Hz and 35 

Hz detection. AFRTS has the capability of originating 15 distinct cues on all of its 

program audio channels with the exception of the Contingency radio service. 

Figure 7-1 illustrates how tone decoders are used in typical applications. The 

program base band source, from a demodulated audio source, is routed through 

the decoder. In the process, 25 or 35 Hz detectors are used to detect the 

presence of either a 25 Hz, or 35 Hz tone, or in the Model 1648, 25 and 35 Hz 

tone combinations. Upon detection, the decoder operates on the 15 contact 

closures. The contact closure is used to switch external devices such as 

automation systems to control routing of program audio and start automation 

equipment for the purpose of recording and/or playing local spots. A very 

important part of the decoder detection process is the removal of cue tones from 

program audio. 

Demodulated audio from the PowerVu Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) is 

wired directly to the audio input of the 1648 Wegener tone decoder for cue tone 

detection. The reason for inputting program audio from the IRD to the decoder is 

to detect cue tones and to separate audio cues from program audio. This will 

eliminate annoying audio cues from program audio that in some situations can 

and will be audible to the audience. Audio output of the decoder is unbalanced 

and in most applications will require converting to a balanced output. This can be 

accomplished by installing an unbalanced to balanced audio card. Several 

7-5


Figure 7-1 Wegner system wiring 

manufactures supply conversions from unbalance to balanced audio modules: 

the Wegner 1659 is one example. Cues tones are seldom audible because of 

their sub-audible tone characteristics and short duration before they are masked 

by program audio; however, Wegner recommends stripping the tones through 

the use of a tone decoder. 

The model 1648 tone decoder is capable of handling balanced or unbalance 

audio inputs. The two position jumpers located on the end of the decoder card 

should be strapped on the dot position for balanced and away from the dot for 

unbalanced audio inputs. 

Ensure that the audio outputs are properly phased, that is, use the same pin from 

each connector to the (+) and (–) outputs. Also, maintain left and right order. By 

referring to table 7-1 you will see that if you cross-input a cue such as 25 Hz to 

the right channel instead of to the left channel you would receive a cue 2 (binary 

10), as opposed to the intended cue 1 (binary 01). 

To interconnect audio outputs from the Model 1648 tone decoder to external 

equipment, connect J7 (left channel), and J9 (right channel) to the external 

equipment. Outputs from the 1659 (Unbalanced to Balanced) card are 600 ohms 

balanced signals, pins 1 and 3 are differential balanced audio, pin 2 is chassis 

ground. (see figure 7-1 for wiring diagram and figure 7-2 for level adjustments 

and). 

Controls and Indicators 

On the front of the decoder card is an LED activity display (figure 7-2). The 

display exhibits, in hexadecimal form, the numeral of the last tone transmitted. 

Tones 1 through 9 will be noted as numerals 1 though 9; note 10 through 15 will 

be indicated as letters A though F respectively. The green indicator beneath the 

LED display will illuminate during the transmission of any tone function. The 

indicator will extinguish upon termination of tone, but the led display will continue 

7-6


Figure 7-2 Wegner decoder front face plate 

to display the last tone transmitted. Test points labeled “LEFT”; “RIGHT”, and 

“GROUND” are available to monitor program audio at any time. The test points 

are 1K Ohm unbalanced signals. 

Three adjustments are available from the front panel. From top to bottom they 

are R32, R73, and R153. Functions are LEFT channel gain, RIGHT channel 

gain, and variable contact closure time. Variable or fixed duration is selectable by 

jumper J9, located in the middle of the card. In the fixed position the duration of 

the contact closure is slaved to the duration of the incoming tone. In the variable 

position the duration of the contact closure is adjustable by R153 from 0.5 

seconds to 5.5 seconds. CAUTION, if a second tone is received before the end 

of the fixed duration time the second cue will not be recognized or decoded 

1644 Relay Card 

The 1644 relay card is composed of 15 relay closures that can be set to normal 

open or normal closed for each of the 15 independent relays. Up to five 1644 

Modules may be used in a single Model 1601 Mainframe. Wegener instruction 

manuals are vague on how this card is connected to function properly with the 

7-7


1648 tone decoder card. The 1644 relay card will not work by simply plugging it 

in next to a decoder card as the Wegener instruction manual will lead you to 

believe (see wiring diagram, figure 7-1). Figure 7-1 is a pictorial view of the rear 

back plane of a 1600 series Wegener mainframe. The following circuit 

description is taken from three Wegener manuals and is intended to simplify the 

process of interconnecting different modules (figure 7-1). Pins 2, 4, 6, and 8 from 

the 24-pin connector, are the Decoder BCD outputs needed to operate the 1644 

relay card. On each side of the 24-pin connector are 4 separate three-pin 

connectors. These connectors are labeled to identify pins 1 and 3 for pin layout 

and location. The 1644 Relay card is mounted in the mainframe in a vertical 

position and the two 3 pin connectors looking from the back of the mainframe are 

the relay card inputs. Connect pin 2 of the 24-pin connector to pin 1 on the top 

three-pin connector (BCD 1). Connect pin 4 of the 24-pin connector to pin 3 of 

the top three-pin connector (BCD 2). Connect pin 6 of the 24-pin connector to pin 

1 of the bottom three-pin connector (BCD 4). Connect pin 8 of the 24 pin 

connector to pin 3 of the bottom three pin (BCD 8). 

7-8

Chapter 8 : Datacasting 


Technology Description 

Datacasting is an important element of the all-new “push technology” of the new 

millennium. It refers to the integration and wide delivery of data from a digital or 

analog transmission system. Raw data consisting of multimedia-media, 

programs, newspapers, magazines, news, entertainment, art, graphics, alert and 

real time control systems are multiplexed together as part of an Internet or MPEG 

payload. The information is transmitted over fiber, terrestrial and satellite 

networks. Considered by some to be the “Third Golden Age of Television”, 

datacasting will play some part in our lives in the future. Information delivered 

across the world in seconds versus getting information hours or even days later, 

will have astounding impact on worldwide communications. 

At AFRTS-BC, different types of data are processed, multiplexed, and 

transmitted to both of the International satellite networks, SATNET, (C-Band and 

Ku-Band), and DTS (DTS Pacific and the DTS Indian/Atlantic). The daily delivery 

of “Stripes Lite”, the electronic version of “Stars and Stripes” newspaper is one 

example. 

AFRTS ® International PowerVu Datacasting Capabilities 

To completely understand how PowerVu works, you should carefully review 

Chapter 4 of this Handbook. The Scientific Atlanta PowerVu compression 

system, as explained in Chapter 4, comes complete with external data integration 

and extraction capabilities. External sources of data are combined into the 

MPEG-2 Aggregate bit stream directly at the Multiplexer where it is processed 

and fed to the modulator for worldwide transmission. PowerVu serves as a “direct 

pipe” or connection to all IRD’s (Integrated Receiver Decoders), which are tuned 

to a channel, which contains the data information. In other words, the data 

payload in PowerVu is transparent to whatever you connect to each end. See 

figure 8-1. 

8-1


Figure 8-1 PowerVu Datacasting 

The PowerVu compression system accepts two different types of data protocols 

for worldwide transmission; RS-422, Synchronous data for high-speed (data 

rates up to 2.048 Mbps), and RS-232, Asynchronous data for low speed (data 

rates up to 38.4 Kbps). Each PowerVu Network Multiplexer will accept up to two 

RS-422 inputs and four RS-232 inputs. It should be noted that PowerVu is limited 

to implementing this data by the number of bits/bandwidth available in each 

compression system. Once the data is supplied to the Multiplexer for worldwide 

transmission, properly configured virtual channels allow customers to access this 

data by connecting personal computers, printers and other data compatible 

equipment to the IRD data connectors located on the rear panel. 

A serial printer such as an Epson FX-750 (or suitable substitutes with input 

buffer) can be connected to any one of a number of serial RS-232 connections. 

“Category 3” or better communication network cables are recommended to be 

used as part of this connection. Cable lengths should not exceed 100 feet without 

the aid of an amplifier or repeater. Some locations claim normal operation with 

lengths up to 250 feet with “Category 5” network cable. 

The RS-232 transmission link is considered to be a DTE, (data terminal 

equipment) to DCE, (data circuit terminating equipment) connection. In other 

words, the Demultiplexer is a DCE on the “output” side. See Figure 8-2. 

8-2


Figure 8-2 PowerVu IRD RS-232 wiring 

Most, if not all PC serial input ports are configured as DTE; printers should be 

double-checked for a DTE or DCE connection. This is extremely important, 

because DTE and DCE connections are “reverse wired” in relation to each other 

64 Kbps High Speed Data Channel 

The 64 Kbps high-speed data channel is currently configured and available on 

SATNET virtual channels 1, 3, 4, and 25. On the AFN Europe satellite signal, the 

data channel is configured on virtual channel 21 for Hotbirds. (see appendix A for 

Virtual Channel Guide information). This high-speed data channel feeds AFN 

Broadcast Stations and Network Affiliates with a wide variety of data. Utilizing a 

DataComm for Business SR-8 Demultiplexer, this channel currently provides: 

� AIN (Affiliated Information Network program notes) 

� News Wire (announcements and news from AP News, ABC, NBC, CBS, 

CNN, ESPN, Sports and other immediate news stories as they are 

released from North America.) 

� Television and Radio Network Alert System (NAS) messages 

� PA system announcements -- one way communication from the broadcast 

center to announce satellite outages and other important types of 

information. 

All of this information is used by television and radio programmers, directors and 

chief engineers to assist in planning, editing, and loading program material and 

directing the operation of Radio and Television stations around the world. 

The extra audio channel, which provides Network Alert announcements to 

AFRTS affiliate stations is an add-on modification provided by AFRTS-BC. 

(Contact the AFRTS Engineering department for more information) 

The DCB SR-8 statistical Demultiplexer actually extracts data from a single RS- 

422 composite network link out of a Scientific Atlanta Power-Vu IRD and feeds 

up to eight RS-232 asynchronous terminal devices or an 8 channel Rocket Port 

for integration into the “NewsBoss Network”. Asynchronous terminal devices may 

be dumb terminals, printers, plotters, and serial computer ports from PC 

computers via RS-232 DA’s if desired. 

8-3


Basic Set-up 

There are two possible methods in which Affiliates can configure their stations for 

reception of this data channel. Stations can use either/or a combination of 

methods based upon individual configuration requirements. AFRTS-BC is 

currently using a combination of both methods. The first method A, utilizes 

standard VT-100 dumb terminals, PC’s configured with VT-100 terminal 

emulation (HyperTerminal) and/or serial printers. The preferred method B, 

utilizes Desktop Technologies NewsBoss wire capture system. NewsBoss 

workstations run on Windows 95/98/2000 or Windows NT 4.0. Standard off the 

shelf PC based hardware can be used with the installed NewsBoss software 

(Pentium 200 minimum). NewsBoss Wires is a highly sophisticated wire capture 

and communications module that receives data from up to 8 RS-232 serial ports 

via the Rocket port. The system is scalable and has many configuration options. 

Using TCP/IP protocol the workstation can be connected to the affiliates LAN or 

WAN. This will enable you to feed the signal to Radio, Engineering, Network 

Control Center (NCC), Traffic, Network Operations, etc. 

Features of NewsBoss include: 

� Receives data automatically from up to 8 RS-232 sources using the rocket 

port. 

� Sorts data by category (AIN, NAS, News, Sports, etc.). 

� Enables notification of urgent and priority data via the screen or external 

alarm. 

� TCP/IP connectivity to LAN or WAN. 

� Modem capability for dial-up services. 

� Simple to setup and customize. 

Equipment Requirements 

To receive data off the SATNET C-Band 64 Kbps channel, you will need the 

following minimum equipment as part of your satellite reception configuration: 

Method 1 

� 1ea Scientific Atlanta models 9223 803-201, or 9223 803-311, or 9223 

803-313 IRD. 

� 1 each Data Comm SR-8 demultiplexer with product manual. 

� 3 each VT-100 dumb terminal and/or standard 286 PC or higher end 

model with available serial port (One unit is dedicated for the network 

management port, which the engineers will control and configure). 

� 3 each Standard computer monitor and/or 3 each serial printers. 

� VGA monitor (not needed if using dumb terminals). 

� Data Com for Business (DCB) remote voice card (for voice card option). 

8-4


� DCB SA-1 speaker amplifier (for voice card option). 

� Speaker and power amplifier (for voice card option). 

� Associated cables. 

Method 2 

� 1 each Scientific Atlanta models 9223 803-201, or 9223 803-311 IRD. 

� 1 each Data Comm for Business SR-8 Data demultiplexer with product 

manual 

� NewsBoss Workstation – Minimum Configuration requirements include 

Pentium 200 or above, 64 MB RAM, 4.3 GB IDE Hard Drive, Windows 

95/98/2000 or Windows NT 4.0 Workstation, network interface card (NIC), 

SoundBlaster SB-16 or better audio card, 15 inch SVGA monitor, ZIP or 

JAZ backup drive. 

� NewsBoss Software package: 

� Newsboss First Work Station (software), 1 each, Part # 808-5239, 

$2136.00 

� Software Maintenance Agreement 1-3 Workstations, 3 years, Part 

#978-7213-360, $982.00 

� Rocket port PCI-8 fast multi-port serial adapter, 1 each, 808-9157, 

$295.00 

Available from: Broadcast Electronics (BE), 4100 N. 24 th St., Quincy, Ill., 

62301 (217) 224-4700 

� 1 each VT-100 dumb terminal and/or standard 286 PC with available 

serial port (for the network management port). 

� 1 each Standard VGA computer monitor (Monitor not needed if using 

dumb terminals). 

� Data Com remote voice card (for voice card option). 

� Data Com SA-1 speaker amplifier (for voice card option). 

� Speaker and power amplifier (for voice card option). 

� Associated cables. 

Depending on each Affiliates Engineering and Operational requirements, the 

network for receiving this channel can be expanded to serve multiple 

workstations and monitoring terminals. An extensive news network can be 

configured, however this should be consider to be part of a new “Broadcast LAN” 

which is totally separated and not connected to the IT LAN used for e-mail and 

other types of administration for security. 

Multiplexer Configuration 

The DCB SR-8 data concentrator (statistical multiplexer) is used to combine up 

to eight asynchronous terminal devices to communicate through a single 

8-5


composite or network link. Asynchronous terminal devices may be dumb 

terminals, printers, plotters, serial computer ports, etc. Each data port is 

configured individually, with network speeds up to 19.2 Kbps (RS-232). The SR 

multiplexer also controls the data flow to and from each terminal device. These 

individually configured flow control parameters may be either software controlled 

(Xon/Xoff) or hardware controlled through the RS-232-D interface. 

CBD (Hardware,CTS/RTS) Flow 

The network management port allows the engineers to configure, set-up, obtain 

information, reconfigure and troubleshoot the SR-8. Multiplexer configuration is 

set through the rear panel “network management” port using a dumb terminal or 

PC with available serial port. 

Multiplexer configurations are kept in non-volatile memory. Refer to DCB manual 

pages 5-3 to 5-14 for command and configuration port settings. 

There are two ways to access the network management port. The first method 

described is recommended: 

1. Connect the supplied six-foot cable to the SR network management 

port connector on the SR-8 and then to an asynchronous terminal. 

The cable has a RJ45 8-position connector, which attaches to the 

SR-8 and a DB-25/9 pin connector that attaches to the computer. 

Check pin wiring to ensure correct connections. (see Figure 7-6) 

2. Use the terminal connected to port 1 as the network management 

access: Depress the port 1 setup switch on the front panel. The 

port 1 setup indicator light will turn on. To return data port 1 too 

normal data activity, depress the switch again. 

When using the supplied network management port cable for direct connection to 

the network management port, the terminal should be configured for: 

� 9600 bps 

� 8 Data bits 

� No Parity 

� 1 Stop bit 

� XON/XOFF 

When mapping the network management port to Port 1, make sure the terminal 

parity and speed settings match the settings for Port 1. Factory defaults are 

� 9600 bps 

� 7 Data bits 

� Space Parity 

� 1 Stop bit 

� XON/XOFF 

8-6


Each synchronous port on the SR-8 should be setup as follows 

Asynchronous Port Specifications 

Data Format 1 start bit 

8 data bits 

1 stop bit 

Port Rates Channel 1 AIN/News Wires 9600 bps 

Channel 2 (reserved for future use) Not used 

Channel 3 NAS Data 9600 bps 

Channel 5-8 (reserved for future 

use) 

Not used 

Port interface RS-232-D 

Port Connectors RJ45, 8-position female (jack) 

Port Flow Control CBD (Hardware, CTS/RTS) 

SR demultiplexers are designed to operate in normal office environments using 

standard 120 VAC power. For optimum performance, the following steps are 

recommended: 

1. Make sure you use the power supply shipped with SR. 

2. Place the SR in a location with sufficient airflow and clearance for cooling. 

3. Place the SR in a location where the controls are easy to access and the 

indicators may be seen. 

4. Place the SR in a secure position so the weight of the power supply and 

attached cables don’t cause the unit to fall. 

5. Plug the power supply into a grounded 120 VAC outlet. The outlet should 

be isolated from electrical equipment, which draws large amounts of 

current such as large electrical motors. You should consider installing 

UPS or surge protection. 

6. Avoid placing the SR in environments where temperatures may be 

extremely hot or cold 

Network loopback and individual port options are set through the network 

management port. (Refer to Section 5 of DCB manual for management port 

information). 

8-7


Flow control options are the most critical and the most common source of 

installation problems. If the flow control is improperly implemented no data or 

data loss will occur. If you are using software flow control (Xon/Xoff) doublecheck 

the parity settings. Make sure that the parity is set the same at the CPU, 

remote SR and attached devices. See Section 3.2 of the DCB manual for 

Xon/Xoff parity setting information. Also see Section 9 for complete flow control 

information. 

Cabling between the de-multiplexer and the computer ports or terminal devices is 

another common source of installation problems. Installers should carefully 

review section 6 of the DCB manual for proper cabling and connector pin-outs. 

The most common cable interfaces are illustrated in the following four figures. 

Figure 8-3 SR-8 connection to a printer and Figure 8-4 SR-8 connection to a PC terminal device 

8-8


Figure 8-5 SR-8 network management port to a terminal and 

Figure 8-6 SR-8 network management port to a PC terminal 

The SR-8 Multiplexer operates in several different modes determined by switch 

selections and the state of critical RS-232-D leads. 

Loopback Mode - This mode is activated by switch selection or through the 

network management port control. In loopback, the SR loops back any signals 

received to the originating source. Loopback is bi-directional. 

On-Line Multiplexing - This is the normal mode of operation where all ports are 

active. 

Off-Line – This mode exists when position 3 (DCD) is negative on the composite 

channel connector. 

8-9

Quick Setup Procedures 


Figure 8-7 PowerVu datacasting network 

1. Once the SR-8 multiplexer is installed in the proper location, connect the 

supplied six-foot network management cable from the SR-8 network 

management port to the PC serial port (using terminal emulation or Dumb 

Terminal). Be sure to check cables for proper pin continuity based on what 

type of equipment you are using. (Figures 8-6) “Category 5” communication 

network cables are required to be used as part of this connection. Cable 

lengths should not exceed 100 feet without the aid of a repeater. 

2. Connect the supplied 9 pin to RJ45 adapter to the 9 pin “high speed” data 

port on Scientific Atlanta model 9223 803-201, or 9223 803-311 IRD. 

Connect a “straight through” CAT05 (RJ45 to RJ45) cable from the abovementioned 

adapter to the composite input port on the back of the SR8 

Demultiplexer. (See figure 8-8) 

8-10


Figure 8-8 SR-8 wiring 

3.)Open “HyperTerminal” (standard on Windows 95/98/2000) or your favorite 

communications software. Check and modify (if necessary) the terminal or PC 

parity and speed settings as previously described (9600, 8, None, 1, 

XON\XOFF). 

4.) Hit the escape key twice – fast. You should see one of the menus displayed. 

5.) Type “MR1”, press enter. (Monitor Receive Port 1, AIN/News wires) 

6.) You should now receive perfect data text on the network management port. 

(If all settings were set) 

7.) Connect from output port 1 on the SR8 to your PC and/or printer to receive 

AIN and News Wires, output port 3 to receive the NAS Alert messages. If you 

do not have the “NewsBoss” software, running standard Hyper term software 

(standard on Windows 95/98/2000) can be used receive the data from the 

SR-8’s Output ports, 1-8. (See Table 8-1 for pin-out wiring) 

PIN SIGNAL PIN SIGNAL 

1 RS-422+ 6 RS-422- 

2 Clock Out+ 7 Clock Out- 

3 Reserved 8 Reserved 

4 N/C 9 N/C 

5 Signal Gnd 

Table 8-1 64 Kbps high-speed pin-out 

Figure 7-9 is the transmit adapter from the DCB SR-8 data concentrator to the 

Scientific Atlanta multiplexer (transmit uplink sites only) 

8-11


Figure 8-9 PowerVu Multiplexer to SR-8 and Figure 8-10 PowerVu IRD to SR-8 

Connect from output port 1 on the SR8 to your PC and/or printer to receive AIN and 

NewsBoss, output port 3 to receive the NAS Alert messages. If you do not have the 

“NewsBoss” software, running standard Hypertermal software (standard on Windows 

95/98/2000) can be used receive the data from the SR-8’s Output ports, 1-8. (See Figure 

8-11) 

Figure 8-11 SR-8 output ports 

8-12


SR-8 Commands 

The following commands can be entered into the HyperTerminal session established with 

an SR8 data multiplexer. Windows HyperTerminal should be set to 9600-baud, 8 data 

bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, and XON\XOFF flow control. After establishing the session 

with the SR-8 hit the escape key twice quickly to bring up the system prompt “AT YOUR 

COMMAND>>”. Commands are listed in table 8-2, test tool commands are located in 

table 8-3. 

Command Key Strokes 

Show Network SN 

Show Configuration SC 

Show Voice SV 

Change Port Configurations CP 

Change Mux Parameters CO 

Change Voice CV 

Change Voice Rate CR 

Configure Modem CM 

Configure Network CN 

Set ID ID 

Activity Counters/Zero AC/Z 

Flow Control FC 

Test Tools (see other table below) TT 

Type TY 

Repeat Last Command * 

Disconnect Network Management Port BYE 

Table 8-2 SR menu commands 

Test Tool Command Key Stokes 

Capture Port CA# 

Network Loop/Quit NL/QNL 

Monitor Port TX MT# 

Monitor Port RX MR# 

Network Management Port Parity P 

Reset Mux RESET 

# = port number 

Table 8-3 Test Tool Commands 

SR-8 Setup 

The data channels one though 8 should all be set to loop-off, flow control to CNB (CTS 

No Busy), and the data rate to 9600-baud. Audio settings can be found in table 8-4. 

Parameter Setting 

RX Gain 0 dB 

TX Gain 0 dB 

8-13


Voice Onlevel -40 dBm 

Voice Offlevel -43 dBm 

Voice on holdover 200 msec. 

Noise insert Off 

Voice rate 6400-baud 

Voice jitter delay 100 msec. 

Voice Port 1 (E&M) 

Table 8-4 SR-8 voice channel settings 

1.544 Mbps High Speed Data Channel 

The 1.544 Mbps RS-422 high-speed data channel provides worldwide customers 

with “Stars and Stripes” newspaper publishing material. This information is 

downloaded edited and inserted into the existing publication, which is distributed 

to thousands of our military, civilians, and families overseas from Europe and the 

Far East. CD AudioVault WAV files are also combined into this channel to 

provide AFRTS affiliates with needed music and news The 1.544 Mbps data 

channel is configured on SATNET channels 10, 11, and 24. (See appendix A). 

Configuration 

To receive the SATNET C-Band 1.544 Mbps data channel, you will need the 

following equipment as part of the your satellite reception configuration; 

1) Scientific Atlanta model 9223 803-201, 9223 803-311, D9834 IRD. 

2) Pentium 233 MHz ISA or faster personal computer w/ mouse 

3) Video Playback Card (required for MPEG-I and/or 2) 

4) 3.2 Gb HD or larger 

5) 64 Mb or more RAM 

6) 15 inch or larger SVGA Computer Monitor 

7) Associated cables 

8) Operators installation manual 

9) Windows NT Workstation 4.0 or Windows 95 

10) Fazzt Remote Station Software 

11) Fazzt Data Workstation module, FZT/HSCC96-RX 

12) Fazzt Type B PowerVu cable 

13) Fazzt Users and installation manual 

14) Adobe Acrobat Reader, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Office Suite or a 

Microsoft Excel viewer. 

8-14


Computer technicians and engineers should refer to the personal computer and 

Fazzt users manual for specific installation guidelines. Figure 8-12 depicts the 

system’s block level configuration. 

D9834 users need to setup the Ethernet connection in the menu “Ethernet” under 

the Advance Menu. An IP address and subnet mask matching the network that 

the encoder is to be installed into needs to be programmed into the decoder at a 

minimum. 

Figure 8-12 Fazzt network 

Cabling and Pin outs 

“Category 5” communication network cables are required to be used as part of 

this connection. Cable lengths should not exceed 100 feet without the aid of a 

Ethernet repeater. Figure 8-13 shows the IRD 1.544 Mbps high speed 9-pin Dconnector 

and Fazzt Type B, RS-422 cable pin-outs that are connected to the 

computer. 

Datacasting on DTS (128 

Kbps High Speed Data 

Channel) 

The DTS 128 Kbps, RS-422 highspeed 

data channel is an information 

highway of multimedia-media, 

programs, newspapers, news, 

entertainment, art, and graphics 

supporting a worldwide audience. 

Utilizing a technology from Kencast 

called Fazzt, this payload consists of 

daily transmissions of Stripes Lite, 

Navy News Wire, Early Bird, 

Weather Charts, satellite photos and 

charts. Originated from various 

Figure 8-13 IRD to Kencast connection 

locations around the country, the 

data is imported into a Windows NT 

Fazzt Server where the data is prepared and processed for worldwide 

transmission. On the receive side, a Pentium II computer is connected to the IRD 

8-15


where files are automatically placed in a created directory “C:\Hot Folder”. (The 

Kencast Fazzt software automatically creates this folder) The 128 Kbps data is 

currently configured on DTS Pacific virtual channels 201 and 202; DTS Indian 

Atlantic virtual channels 301 & 302 (see Chapter 3). 

Configuration 

To receive the DTS 128 Kbps data channel, you will need the following 

equipment as part of the your satellite reception configuration; 

1) Scientific Atlanta model 9223 803-201, or the 9223 803-311 IRD 

2) Pentium 233 MHz ISA or EISA microcomputer with mouse 

3) Video Playback Card (required for MPEG-I and/or 2) 

4) 3.2 Gb HD or larger 

5) 64 Mb or more RAM 

6) 15 inch or better SVGA Computer Monitor 

7) Associated cables 

8) Operators installation manual 

9) Windows NT Workstation 4.0 or Windows 95 

10) Fazzt Remote Station Software 

11) Fazzt Data Workstation module, FZT/HSCC96-RX 

12) Fazzt Type B PowerVu cable 

13) Fazzt Users and installation manual 

Computer technicians and engineers should refer to the personal computer and 

Fazzt users manual for specific installation guidelines. Figure 8-14 depicts the 

system’s block level configuration. 

8-16


Figure 8-14 Fazzt configuration and interface. 

Cabling and Pin outs 

“Category 5” communication network cables are required to be used as part of 

this connection. Cable lengths should not exceed 100 feet without the aid of a 

repeater. Previous Figure 8-11 shows the IRD 128 Kbps high-speed 9-pin D 

connector and Fazzt Type B, RS-422 cable pin-outs that are connected to the 

computer. 

1.544 Mbps and 128 Kbps High Speed Data Troubleshooting 

Guide 

The following troubleshooting steps are provided assuming the installer has 

carefully reviewed associated installation and users guide material provided with 

each piece of equipment and has checked ALL cables for continuity to include 

opens/shorts between pins/wires. The installer should have also re-checked 

cables for a snug and tight fit. 

1) The IRD is locked on the satellite signal; a steady green light on front 

panel is present (not flashing). 

� YES – proceed on to next step 

� NO – Refer to Chapter 4, IRD Troubleshooting Guide 

2) The IRD is tuned to the right channel, referring to the virtual channel 

guide for your particular satellite region network located in appendix A. 

This can be confirmed on the model 9223 803-200, 201, 202, 204 by 

pushing the “Menu” button, and the then pushing “0” to display all 

services. If you are on the right channel, you will see an entry for HSD 

(high-speed data) . The model D9234 can be checked by using the 

remote control, by pushing “Menu”, “Satellite Services”, and then 

“Select”. 

� YES – proceed on to next paragraph 

� NO – Change to the correct channel 

8-17


3) Most Fazzt installation problems stem from an incorrect configuration. 

The most common cause of installation problems is a conflict in 

Interrupts (IRQ). You must make sure that Fazzt’s IRQ selection is 

compatible with your computer. The setting must be unique. If any 

other device in your computer is set for the same IRQ as the Fazzt 

Card, it will not work. 

This is likely an interrupt problem: You have an interrupt conflict if your 

computer locks up when you try to launch the Fazzt High Speed Receiver. 

Another sign of interrupt conflict is unusual behavior such as receiving only 

part of the data being transmitted (or none at all). The default IRQ is 12. 

Solution: From the Windows Program Manager/Desktop, launch the Fazzt 

High Speed Receiver. Double click on the gears icon to launch the Fazzt 

Configuration Utility. Select another IRQ. Then try again to launch the Fazzt 

program. Repeat these steps, trying to find a different IRQ (11, 10, 9 etc…). 

4) Make sure the Fazzt Card is well seated in the expansion slot being 

used. 

5) Try the Fazzt Card in a different ISA slot. 

6) Make sure that your port is configured for the correct address. 

This is likely port problem: You may have a port problem if, when you 

launch the Fazzt Configuration Utility, you get the error message “Bimodal 

Interrupt Service Not Available”. If you are running under Windows NT, 

you can confirm that the problem is with the port by rebooting the system; 

then launching the “Event Viewer” in Windows “Administrative Tools” 

program group. If it registers a System Error “Device not detected in 

specified port”, you have a port problem. If you are running Windows 95, 

perform the solution steps anyway. 

Solution: Remove the Fazzt Card from your PC and inspect the jumper 

straps. (See Fazzt Installation Step III discussion and diagram of port 

settings.) If the Fazzt Card has a port setting other than the default 0x120 

the easiest way to remedy the inconsistency is to change the software port 

setting using the Fazzt Configuration Utility, to the same settings as the 

card. Replace the card in the slot and launch the Fazzt Configuration 

Utility by double clicking on the gears icon in the Fazzt High Receiver 

module. Alternatively, you can change the jumper straps on the card to 

another configuration. Try this if the 0x120 setting does not work. 

IRD Control and Polling from a Remote Location 

Scientific Atlanta model IRD’s can be checked and controlled from remote 

locations. Connect a desktop or laptop computer using a modem and telephone 

line. See figure 8-15. 

8-18


Figure 8-15 IRD control via a PC 

Connect a standard category 3 (or 5) network cable between the modem and the 

IRD’s expansion port utilizing the following pin-outs for single or dual IRD polling 

configurations. See figures 8-16 and 8-17. 

Figure 8-16 Single IRD polling and Figure 8-17 Dual IRD polling 

8-19


Use a simple communication program like Windows HyperTerminal to control 

and poll the remote IRD from your computer. Listed in table 8-5 are some of the 

commands recognized by the IRD. 

Table 8-5 IRD polling commands 

SA1BER Displays current Bit Error Rate (IRD#1) 

SA1CCP Displays current CCP software version 

SA1DCP Displays current DCP software version 

SA1VER Displays type of decoder 

SA1CE Displays current corrected errors 

SA1UE Displays current uncorrected errors 

SA1CE=0 Resets currents corrected errors to “0” 

SA1UE=0 Resets current uncorrected errors to “0” 

SA1INST Displays all current configuration data on the IRD 

SA1PW=OFF Turns Power “off” on IRD 

SA1PW=ON Turns Power “on” 

SA1QLTY Displays current signal quality 

SA1AGC Displays current signal strength 

SA1CH=1 Changes the IRD to channel One 

To poll the #2 IRD in a dual poll configuration use SA2BER command. 

8-20


Chapter 9 : NewsBoss Network Alert System (NAS) 

What is NewsBoss? 

NewsBoss is a software program designed for journalist in radio newsrooms 

providing them with near real-time news information. The system not only 

provides wire reception but database storage, word processing, audio editing, 

and presentation tools, all intergraded into one program. Associated Press news 

wire stories are received via satellite receivers at the Defense Media Center 

(DMC) and collected and organized in the NewsBoss database. They then are 

automatically transmitted via PowerVu and are then available for viewing from 

any NewsBoss workstation. Both the server and client use an intuitive Windows 

interface making it easy to learn and to cut and paste news copy between the 

NewsBoss system and any Windows word processor. 

What is NAS? 

NAS is the Network Alert System that is used to notify affiliates of changes to 

programming or of upcoming special events. Network alerts can be generated in 

NewsBoss and are sent out on the 64Kbps data feed over PowerVu as soon as 

the message is saved or closed. See chapter 7 for data port connection details. 

The NAS can notify affiliates of urgent and priority data via the screen or external 

alarm. Alerts are listed in the NAS queue and remain there for review for one 

week before being automatically deleted. 

9-1


Chapter 10 : Closed Caption Service 

All other PowerVu channels pass the closed caption information if the program provider 

has incorporated it in the program. Closed caption is a depiction of the audio portion of 

a television program as text displayed on a television screen with the aid of a decoder 

that may be internal or external to the television receiver. Closed, as opposed to open, 

captioning means that the captions do not normally appear as part of the broadcast 

television picture. The viewer must have the proper equipment and select the captioning 

mode. Closed-captioned programs are compatible with other programs in that the 

addition of the captioning signal does not interfere with the regular audio and video 

signal. Digital data to create captions are transmitted with the television program signal 

on Line 21, field 1 of the vertical blanking interval, which the PowerVu encoders passes 

with the video stream. This signal is then received on the PowerVu receiver and 

transmitted by the affiliates to their viewers. 

Captioned TV enables viewer to read the dialogue and narration of the programs. The 

technique is used to provide access to the entertainment, educational, and informational 

benefits a television for viewers who are deaf or hearing impaired. The captions 

produced by the closed captioning system generally appear in the lower portion of the 

television screen, Closed captioning is added in real time to a live program or added 

later as part of post production or distribution. AFRTS does not add or delete closed 

captioning to programs. 

The United States Congress passed the Television Decoder Circuitry Act of 1990. This 

act requires that all television receivers manufactured on or after July 1, 1993 with a 

picture screen of 13 inches or greater must be equipped to display closed-captioned 

television transmission. The display of the closed caption is a customer selectable 

feature on the receivers. 

10-1


Chapter 11 : AFRTS ® Decoder Operating System Download 

Procedures 

9234 Decoders 

This procedure applies to all customers who receive the AFRTS, AFN-Europe and/or 

DTS (Direct to Sailor) signal via satellite using a Scientific Atlanta Power-Vu model 9234 

desk-top IRD (Integrated Receiver Decoder). The OS download is an out-of-service 

process: no video, audio or data will be available from your IRD during the download. 

Carefully follow this simplified OS download procedure: 

1) From the MAIN MENU, cursor up to RECEIVER STATUS and push “select.” 

This will access the RECEIVER STATUS menu. 

2) From the RECEIVER STATUS menu, cursor up to USER SETUP and push 

“select.” This will access the USER SETUP menu. 

3) From the USER SETUP menu, cursor up to NETWORK PRESETS and push 

“select.” This will access the NETWORK PRESETS menu. 

4) Caution, this is an extremely important step: check the USE NIT block in this 

menu. It should indicate YES. If it reads NO, cursor up to the USE NIT block 

and press the “select” button to change it to YES. 

5) Move the cursor to “exit” and push “select.” You will be prompted to save the 

settings: a box will appear and you will be asked to push 1 for yes, 2 for no or 

3 to cancel. Press 1. Move the cursor to “exit” and press “select.” Repeat 

this step as prompted as you exit through all the menus. NOTE: FAILURE 

TO PUT YOUR DECODER IN THIS (USE NIT YES) MODE PRIOR TO 

PERFORMING THE NEXT PROCEDURE WILL RESULT IN THE DECODER 

LOCKING UP AND COULD REQUIRE FACTORY MAINTENANCE TO 

CORRECT THE PROBLEM. 

6) With the IRD still locked to the incoming signal, tune the IRD to any channel. 

7) After the IRD locks on a channel, simply press the ON/STANDBY button on 

the front of the IRD. The IRD will determine whether it needs an OS 

download. 

8) If the IRD does not need an OS download, it simply shuts off when the 

ON/STANDBY button is pressed. Pressing the ON/STANDBY button again 

will turn the IRD back on. 

9) If the IRD determines it needs an OS download, it will begin the download 

process automatically. This procedure will take up to 30 minutes for each 

decoder requiring an OS download. 

10) Once the OS download is completed, the IRD will return back “ON” to the 

channel previously selected. 

11-1


Should you encounter problems with this process, please contact the Defense Media 

Center (DMC) at commercial (951) 413-2339 or DSN 348-1339, or email 

dee@dodmedia.osd.mil 

9832 Decoders 

This procedure applies to all customers that receive AFRTS, AFN Europe, or DTS 

(Direct to Sailors) programming via satellite using the Scientific Atlanta 9932 set top 

type IRD (Integrated Receiver Decoder). The following simple procedure will guide you 

in downloading new software to update your decoder. Note: OS Download is an out of 

service process – no video, audio, or data programming will be available from an IRD 

during a download. 

Ensure that the satellite dish is peaked for the best reception. Do not unplug the LNB 

signal or the AC cord, nor move the dish while the IRD is downloading application data. 

Shipboard users are advised to accomplish the update while pier side when ever 

possible. 

Press the on/standby button once to put the IRD into the standby mode. If your system 

requires a software upgrade, it will begin automatically. Allow the system to totally 

download the updated software. (Download procedure could take up to 30 minutes) 

Once the download is complete the decoder will return to normal operation on the last 

channel that was selected prior to beginning the download. When the download is 

complete the IRD will return to operation on the channel last viewed automatically. 

9223 Decoders 

This procedure applies to all customers that receive AFRTS, AFN Europe, or DTS 

(Direct to Sailors) programming via satellite using the Scientific Atlanta 9223 

Commercial type IRD (Integrated Receiver Decoder). The following simple procedure 

will guide you in downloading new software to update your decoder. Note: OS 

Download is an out of service process – no video, audio, or data programming will be 

available from an IRD during a download. 

How can I tell if I need an OS download? 

On any one of the model 9223 commercial IRDs, press the MENU button on the front of 

the IRD. The DECODER VERSIONS line on the main menu shows the Display Control 

Processor (DCP) software version. The DCP and CCP are loaded, as a separate file, 

which means two separate OS downloads must take place. If the IRD has the latest 

version of either processor, then only one download is needed. 

Carefully follow this simplified OS download procedure: 

1. With the IRD locked to the incoming AFRTS, AFN Europe, or DTS satellite signal 

simply press the On/Standby button on the front of the IRD. Wait approximately 

10 minutes. The IRD will automatically download the required software. 

11-2


2. Press the On/Standby button on the front of the IRD a second time. Wait 

approximately 10 minutes. The IRD will automatically download the required 

software if needed. 

3. After the ON/STANDBY or STANDBY button has been pressed, the IRD will 

determine whether it needs an OS Download and begin the process 

automatically. This procedure will take up to 10 minutes for each OS download. 

Once the OS download is completed, the IRD will return back “On” to the channel 

previously selected. If the IRD does not need an OS download, it simply shuts 

off when the ON/STANDBY or STANDBY button is pressed. 

Should problems be encountered with this process, please contact AFRTS-BC at 

(951) 413-2339, DSN 348-1339, or e-mail at dee@dodmedia.osd.mil. 

How to read PowerVu decoder TIDs 

The TID for all decoders is comprised of 12 digits broken down into the following 

meanings. 

Digit 1. Refers to the last digit of the year i.e. “0” for 2000, “1” for 2001 etcetera up to 

“4” for 2004. If 5 to 9 are present then these were manufactured in 1995 through 1999 

respectively. The TIDs will be revisited in the future to accommodate 2005 etc. 

Digits 2 & 3. Refer to the week of the year from 01 to 52. 

Digits 4 & 5. Refer to the particular model of decoder as follows. 

- 76 for the D9223 Commercial Receiver 

- 87 for the D9224 Professional Satellite Receiver 

- 79 for the D9225 Headend Satellite Receiver (HESR) 

- 89 for the D9228 Multiple Decryption Receiver (MDR) 

- 90 for the D9229 Commercial Headend Receiver 

- 97 for the D9230 Master Control Receiver (MCR) 

- 78 for the D9234 Business Satellite Receiver (BSR – including BSR Lite) 

- 88 for the D9235 Digital Satellite Receiver (DSR) 

Digit 6. Refers to the country of manufacture where ‘ 0 ‘ is Canada and ‘ 1 ‘ is for 

Korea. 

Digits 7 – 12. Are effectively the serial numbers of the unit. 

11-3

Appendix A: Virtual Channel Listings 

PowerVu Channels 

AFN California 

AFN Europe 

AFN Japan Korea 

DTS Navy 

PowerVu Channels with detail 

AFN California 

AFN Europe 

AFN Japan Korea 

DTS Navy 

Data Channels AFRTS-BC 

Data Channels AFNE 

Appendix B: Technical Reference 

RF link budget 

C-Band Link Budget 

Ku-Band Link Budget 

DTS-Band Link Budget 

Appendix C: Dish pointing data 

Appendixes 

Appendix D: AFRTS Satellite Information 

Appendix Listing page 1


Appendix A: Virtual Channel Listings 

Virtual Channel Listings 

AFN PowerVu Services 5 May 2010 

1. AFN-BC (California) 

PowerVu Channel 1 

Video: AFN|sports 

Audio : AFN|sports 


Video: AFN|prime Atlantic 

Audio : AFN|prime Atlantic 


Video: AFN|spectrum 

Audio : AFN|spectrum 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific 


Video: AFN|news 

Audio : AFN|news 


Video: AFN|xtra 

Audio : AFN|xtra 


Video: AFN|program Guide 

Audio : Voice Channel 


Video: The Pentagon Channel 

Audio : The Pentagon Channel 


Video: AFN|family 

Audio : AFN|family 


Video: AFN|movie 

Audio : AFN|movie 

2


Video: AFN|prime Freedom 

Audio : AFN|prime Freedom 






























Audio : Drive FX 



Audio : Country 


Appendix A page 3



Audio : Classic Rock 



Audio : NPR 



Audio : Voice Line 



Audio : Uninterruptable Voice Line 



Audio : Gravity 



Audio : Jack FM 



Audio : Hot AC 



Audio : Z Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 



Audio : ESPN Radio 



Audio : Fox Sports Talk 



Audio : Uninterruptable Voice Line 



Audio : Time Code 


Appendix A page 4



Audio : Backhaul to Japan 



Audio : Contingency Channel 



Audio : Back-up for AFNE Z-FM 



Audio : Back-up for AFNE Bavaria Z-FM 




Audio : Back-up for AFNE Bavaria PowerNet 



Audio : Bright AC (Baghdad Backhaul) 


Video: Engineering Channel 

Audio : 1 KHz Test Tone 

Appendix A page 5

2. AFNE (Europe) 


Video: AFN|sports 






Video: AFN|spectrum 

Audio : AFN|spectrum 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific 


Video: AFN|news 

Audio : AFN|news 


Video: AFN|xtra 

Audio : AFN|xtra 


Video: AFN|program guide 

Audio : AFN|program guide 


Video: Pentagon Channel 

Audio : Pentagon Channel 





Video: AFN|movie 

Audio : AFN|movie 


Video: AFN Bavaria 

Audio : AFN Bavaria 


Video: AFN Aviano 

Audio : AFN Aviano 


Video: AFN Weisbaden 

Audio : AFN Weisbaden 


Video: AFN Vicenza 

Audio : AFN Vicenza 


Appendix A page 6


Video: AFN Heidelberg 

Audio : AFN Heidelberg 


Video: AFN Rota 

Audio : AFN Rota 


Video: AFNE Naples 

Audio : AFN Naples 


Video: AFN Kaiserslautern 

Audio : AFN Kaiserslautern 


Video: AFN Sigonella 

Audio : AFN Sigonella 


Video: AFN Benelux 

Audio : AFN Benelux 


Video: AFN Eifel 

Audio : AFN Eifel 


Video: None 

Audio : Interruptible Voice Channel (IVC) 


Video: AFN Freedom 

Audio : AFN Freedom 


Video: AFNE Program Guide 










Audio : Z-Rock (ABC alternative rock) 



Audio : Fox Sports Talk 


Appendix A page 7









Audio : Mainstream Country 



Audio : PowerNet 



Audio : NPR 



Audio : Eagle FM 



Audio : Drive FX 



Audio : Voice Channel 



Audio : Iraq Radio 


Video: None 

Audio : Vincenza Eagle 106 


Video: None 

Audio : Vincenza PowerNet 


Video: AFN Freedom 

Audio : AFN Freedom 


Video: None 

Audio : 1 KHz Text Tone +4db 



Audio : Bavaria Eagle FM 



Audio : Bavaria PowerNet 


Appendix A page 8



Audio : Aviano ZFM 106 



Audio : Aviano Power 107 



Audio : Hessen Eagle 



Audio : Hessn PowerNet 


Video: None 

Audio : Vicenza Eagle 106 


Video: None 

Audio : Vicenza PowerNet 



Audio : Heidelberg Eagle FM 



Audio : Heidelberg PowerNet 



Audio : Rota Eagle FM 



Audio : Rota PowerNet 



Audio : Souda Bay Radio 


Video: None 

Audio : AFNE Naples Eagle FM 


Video: None 

Audio : AFNE Naples PowerNet 



Audio : AFN Kaiserslutern Eagle FM 



Audio : AFN Kaiserslutern PowerNet 


Appendix A page 9


Video: None 

Audio : AFN Sigonella Eagle FM 


Video: None 

Audio : AFN Sigonella PowerNet 



Audio : AFN Benelux Eagle FM 



Audio : AFN Benelux PowerNet 


Video: None 

Audio : AFN Livorno Eagle 


Video: None 

Audio : AFN Livorno PowerNet 


Video: None 

Audio : AFN Freedom (Afghanistan) Radio 


Appendix A page 10

3. AFN (Pacific) 


Video: AFN|sports Japan 






Video: AFN|spectrum Japan 

Audio : AFN|spectrum Japan 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Yokota 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Yokota 


Video: AFN|news Japan 

Audio : AFN|news Japan 


Video: AFN|xtra Japan 

Audio : AFN|xtra Japan 


Video: AFN|program guide 

Audio : Interruptible Voice 


Video: Pentagon Channel 

Audio : Pentagon Channel 





Video: AFN|movie Japan 

Audio : AFN|movie Japan 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Okinawa 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Okinawa 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Iwakuni 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Iwakuni 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Sasebo 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Sasebo 


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Misawa 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Misawa 


Appendix A page 11


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Yokosuka 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Yokosuka 


Video: None 

Audio : Yokota Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Yokota Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : Okinawa Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Okinawa Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : Iwakuni Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Iwakuni Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : Sasebo Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Sasebo Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : Misawa Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Misawa Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : Yokosuka Radio One 


Video: None 

Audio : Yokosuka Radio Two 


Video: None 

Audio : DriveFX 


Video: None 



Appendix A page 12


Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : NPR International 


Video: None 

Audio : Interruptible Voice 


Video: None 

Audio : Uninterruptible Voice 


Video: None 



Video: None 



Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : Z-Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 


Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : Fox Sports Radio Plus 


Video: None 

Audio : Variable/Seasonal Radio 


Video: AFN|prime Pacfic 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacfic 


Video: AFN|sports Korea 

Audio : AFN|sports Korea 





Video: AFN|spectrum Korea 

Audio : AFN|spectrum Korea 


Appendix A page 13


Video: AFN|prime Pacific Korea 

Audio : AFN|prime Pacific Korea 


Video: AFN|news Korea 

Audio : AFN|news Korea 


Video: AFN|xtra Korea 

Audio : AFN|xtra Korea 



Audio : Interruptable Voice 


Video: The Pentagon Channel 

Audio : The Pentagon Channel 


Video: AFN|family Regional 

Audio : AFN|family Regional 


Video: AFN|movies Korea 

Audio : AFN|movies Korea 


Video: None 

Audio : Korea Eagle 


Video: None 

Audio : Korea Power 


Video: None 

Audio : Taegu Eagle 


Video: None 

Audio : Taegu Power 


Video: None 

Audio : Korea Contingency Spare 


Video: None 

Audio : DriveFX 


Video: None 



Appendix A page 14


Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : NPR International 


Video: None 



Video: None 



Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : Z-Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 


Video: None 



Video: None 

Audio : Fox Sports Radio Plus 


Appendix A page 15

4. DTS (Navy) 


Video: Pacific Entertainment 

Audio : Pacific Entertainment 


Video: Pacific News 

Audio : Pacific News 


Video: Pacific Sports 

Audio : Pacific Sports 


Video: Atlantic Entertainment 

Audio : Atlantic Entertainment 


Video: Atlanitc News 

Audio : Atlantic News 


Video: Atlantic Sports 

Audio : Atlantic Sports 


Appendix A page 16


AFN PowerVu Services 5 May 2010 

1. AFN-BC (California) 


Appendix A page 17 

Data Edit Date 17-Dec-08 

Video: AFN|sports Record ID 145 

Audio One: AFN|sports 

Audio Two: ESPN Radio 

Audio Three: Fox Sports Talk 

Audio Four: Contingency 

Expansion Port Data: 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 Data Channel (Time Code) 

High Speed Data: None 



Video: AFN|prime Atlantic Record ID 146 

Audio One: AFN|prime Atlantic 

Audio Two: Hot AC 

Audio Three: Z-Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 

Audio Four: NPR 


High Speed Data: 1.54 Mbps, RS-422 Data (Stars and Stripes) 


Data Edit Date 08-Oct-09 

Video: AFN|spectrum Record ID 147 

Audio One: AFN|spectrum 

Audio Two: Gravity 

Audio Three: Contingency 

Audio Four: Uninterruptable Voice Line 


High Speed Data: 128 Kbps, RS-422 Data (Navy DTS) 



Video: AFN|prime Pacific Record ID 148 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific 

Audio Two: Jack FM 

Audio Three: None 

Audio Four: None 


High Speed Data: 64 Kbps, RS-422 Data (DCB Mux) 



Video: AFN|news Record ID 149 

Audio One: AFN|news 

Audio Two: DriveFX 

Audio Three: Country 

Audio Four: Classic Rock 


High Speed Data: None





Video: AFN|xtra Record ID 150 

Audio One: AFN|xtra 

Audio Two: Time Code 







Video: AFN|program Guide Record ID 151 

Audio One: Voice Channel 


Audio Three: News Radio 

Audio Four: Uninterruptable Voice Line 





Video: The Pentagon Channel Record ID 152 

Audio One: The Pentagon Channel 

Audio Two: None 







Video: AFN|family Record ID 153 

Audio One: AFN|family 








Video: AFN|movie Record ID 154 

Audio One: AFN|movie 

Audio Two: 1 KHz Test Tone 

Audio Three: 1 KHz Test Tone 

Audio Four: 1 KHz Test Tone 







Video: AFN|prime Freedom Record ID 155 

Audio One: AFN|prime Freedom 






























































































Audio One: Drive FX 







Data Edit Date 28-Apr-10 


Audio One: Country 









Audio One: Classic Rock 









Audio One: NPR 









Audio One: Voice Line 

Audio Two: Uninterruptable Voice Line 

Audio Three: Split Voice Line 









Audio One: Uninterruptable Voice Line 

Audio Two: Split Voice Line 

Audio Three: Voice Line 







Audio One: Gravity 









Audio One: Jack FM 









Audio One: Hot AC 









Audio One: Z Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 











Audio One: ESPN Radio 









Audio One: Fox Sports Talk 









Audio One: Uninterruptable Voice Line 









Audio One: Time Code 









Audio One: Backhaul to Japan 











Audio One: Contingency Channel 









Audio One: Back-up for AFNE Z-FM 









Audio One: Back-up for AFNE Bavaria Z-FM 

Audio Two: Back-up for AFNE Bavaria PowerNet 








Audio One: Back-up for AFNE Bavaria PowerNet 

Audio Two: Back-up for AFNE Bavaria Z-FM 








Audio One: Bright AC (Baghdad Backhaul) 










Video: Engineering Channel Record ID 185 

Audio One: 1 KHz Test Tone 

Audio Two: 1 KHz Test Tone 

Audio Three: 1 KHz Test Tone 

Audio Four: 1 KHz Test Tone 



2. AFNE (Europe) 





Video: AFN|sports Record ID 1 



Audio Three: Fox Sports Talk 








Audio Two: Power Net Radio 

Audio Three: Eagle 

Audio Four: NPR International 





Video: AFN|spectrum Record ID 3 

Audio One: AFN|spectrum 








Video: AFN|prime Pacific Record ID 4 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific 








Video: AFN|news Record ID 5 

Audio One: AFN|news 

Audio Two: Drive FX 

Audio Three: Country 

Audio Four: Jack FM 


High Speed Data: 1.54 Mbps, RS-422 Data (Stars and Stripes)





Video: AFN|xtra Record ID 6 

Audio One: AFN|xtra 

Audio Two: Timecode 







Video: AFN|program guide Record ID 7 

Audio One: AFN|program guide 


Audio Three: Voice Channel 

Audio Four: Uninteruptable Voice Channel 





Video: Pentagon Channel Record ID 8 

Audio One: Pentagon Channel 

Audio Two: Z-Rock (ABC-Hard Rock) 

Audio Three: Uninterruptible Voice Channel 








Audio Two: AFNS Eagle Feed 







Video: AFN|movie Record ID 10 

Audio One: AFN|movie 










Video: AFN Bavaria Record ID 11 

Audio One: AFN Bavaria 


Audio Three: Time code 

Audio Four: SMPTE Timecode 





Video: AFN Aviano Record ID 12 

Audio One: AFN Aviano 

Audio Two: Aviano PowerNet 

Audio Three: Aviano Eagle 

Audio Four: Aviano Contingency 

Expansion Port Data: None 



Data Edit Date 05-May-10 

Video: AFN Weisbaden Record ID 13 

Audio One: AFN Weisbaden 

Audio Two: Eagle Weisbaden 

Audio Three: Weisbaden Power Net 






Video: AFN Vicenza Record ID 14 

Audio One: AFN Vicenza 

Audio Two: Vicenza Eagle 106 

Audio Three: Vicenza PowerNet 






Video: AFN Heidelberg Record ID 15 

Audio One: AFN Heidelberg 

Audio Two: Eagle Heidelberg 

Audio Three: Heidelberg PowerNet 








Video: AFN Rota Record ID 16 

Audio One: AFN Rota 

Audio Two: Rota Z-FM 

Audio Three: Rota PowerNet 

Audio Four: Suda Bay Radio 





Video: AFNE Naples Record ID 18 

Audio One: AFN Naples 

Audio Two: Naples Eagle 

Audio Three: Naples PowerNet 






Video: AFN Kaiserslautern Record ID 19 

Audio One: AFN Kaiserslautern 

Audio Two: Eagle Kaiserslautern 

Audio Three: Kaiserslautern PowerNet 






Video: AFN Sigonella Record ID 20 

Audio One: AFN Sigonella 

Audio Two: Sigonella Z-FM 

Audio Three: Sigonella PowerNet 






Video: AFN Benelux Record ID 21 

Audio One: AFN Benelux 

Audio Two: Eagle Benelux 

Audio Three: Benelux PowerNet 








Video: AFN Eifel Record ID 23 

Audio One: AFN Eifel 








Video: None Record ID 25 

Audio One: Interruptible Voice Channel (IVC) 








Video: AFN Freedom Record ID 26 

Audio One: AFN Freedom 

Audio Two: Livorno 

Audio Three: Livorno 

Audio Four: Afghanistan Radio 





Video: AFNE Program Guide Record ID 27 






























Audio One: Z-Rock (ABC alternative rock) 









Audio One: Fox Sports Talk 





























Audio One: Mainstream Country 









Audio One: PowerNet 









Audio One: NPR 









Audio One: Eagle FM 









Audio One: Drive FX 




Expansion Port Data: 

High Speed Data:






Audio One: Voice Channel 









Audio One: Iraq Radio 









Audio One: Vincenza Eagle 106 









Audio One: Vincenza PowerNet 








Video: AFN Freedom Record ID 84 

Audio One: AFN Freedom 











Audio One: 1 KHz Text Tone +4db 

Audio Two: 1 KHz Text Tone +4db 

Audio Three: 1 KHz Text Tone +4db 

Audio Four: 1 KHz Text Tone +4db 






Audio One: Bavaria Eagle FM 









Audio One: Bavaria PowerNet 









Audio One: Aviano ZFM 106 





High Speed Data: 




Audio One: Aviano Power 107 





High Speed Data:






Audio One: Hessen Eagle 









Audio One: Hessn PowerNet 









Audio One: Vicenza Eagle 106 









Audio One: Vicenza PowerNet 









Audio One: Heidelberg Eagle FM 











Audio One: Heidelberg PowerNet 









Audio One: Rota Eagle FM 









Audio One: Rota PowerNet 









Audio One: Souda Bay Radio 









Audio One: AFNE Naples Eagle FM 











Audio One: AFNE Naples PowerNet 









Audio One: AFN Kaiserslutern Eagle FM 









Audio One: AFN Kaiserslutern PowerNet 









Audio One: AFN Sigonella Eagle FM 









Audio One: AFN Sigonella PowerNet 











Audio One: AFN Benelux Eagle FM 









Audio One: AFN Benelux PowerNet 









Audio One: AFN Livorno Eagle 









Audio One: AFN Livorno PowerNet 









Audio One: AFN Freedom (Afghanistan) Radio 






3. AFN (Pacific) 





Video: AFN|sports Japan Record ID 42 



Audio Three: Fox Sports 









Audio Three: Z-Rock (ABC hard rock) 






Video: AFN|spectrum Japan Record ID 44 

Audio One: AFN|spectrum Japan 



Audio Four: Uniterruptible Voice Channel 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Yokota Record ID 45 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Yokota 


Audio Three: Yokota Radio One 

Audio Four: Yokota Radio Two 





Video: AFN|news Japan Record ID 46 

Audio One: AFN|news Japan 


Audio Three: Mainstream Country 








Video: AFN|xtra Japan Record ID 47 

Audio One: AFN|xtra Japan 

Audio Two: Split IVC/UVC 

Audio Three: SMPTE Time Code 






Video: AFN|program guide Record ID 48 

Audio One: Interruptible Voice 


Audio Three: News Radio 

Audio Four: Uninteruptable Voice Channel 





Video: Pentagon Channel Record ID 49 

Audio One: Pentagon Channel 










Audio Two: Interuptible Voice Channel 







Video: AFN|movie Japan Record ID 51 

Audio One: AFN|movie Japan 










Video: AFN|prime Pacific Okinawa Record ID 52 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Okinawa 


Audio Three: Okinawa Radio One 

Audio Four: Okinawa Radio Two 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Iwakuni Record ID 53 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Iwakuni 


Audio Three: Iwakuni Radio One 

Audio Four: Iwakuni Radio Two 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Sasebo Record ID 54 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Sasebo 


Audio Three: Sasebo Radio One 

Audio Four: Sasebo Radio Two 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Misawa Record ID 55 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Misawa 


Audio Three: Misawa Radio One 

Audio Four: Misawa Radio Two 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Yokosuka Record ID 56 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Yokosuka 


Audio Three: Yokosuka Radio One 

Audio Four: Yokosuka Radio Two 








Audio One: Yokota Radio One 









Audio One: Yokota Radio Two 









Audio One: Okinawa Radio One 









Audio One: Okinawa Radio Two 









Audio One: Iwakuni Radio One 











Audio One: Iwakuni Radio Two 









Audio One: Sasebo Radio One 









Audio One: Sasebo Radio Two 









Audio One: Misawa Radio One 









Audio One: Misawa Radio Two 











Audio One: Yokosuka Radio One 









Audio One: Yokosuka Radio Two 









Audio One: DriveFX 





























Audio One: NPR International 









Audio One: Interruptible Voice 









Audio One: Uninterruptible Voice 






































Audio One: Z-Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 


















Audio One: Fox Sports Radio Plus 









Audio One: Variable/Seasonal Radio 










Video: AFN|prime Pacfic Record ID 137 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacfic 








Video: AFN|sports Korea Record ID 112 

Audio One: AFN|sports Korea 

Audio Two: ESPN Sports 

Audio Three: Fox Sports 









Audio Three: Z-Rock 






Video: AFN|spectrum Korea Record ID 114 

Audio One: AFN|spectrum Korea 



Audio Four: Unintruptable Voice 





Video: AFN|prime Pacific Korea Record ID 115 

Audio One: AFN|prime Pacific Korea 


Audio Three: Eagle 

Audio Four: Power 


High Speed Data: 64 Kbps, RS-422 Data (DCB Mux)





Video: AFN|news Korea Record ID 116 

Audio One: AFN|news Korea 


Audio Three: Mainstream Country 






Video: AFN|xtra Korea Record ID 117 

Audio One: AFN|xtra Korea 

Audio Two: SMPTE TimeCode 

Audio Three: Taegu Eagle 

Audio Four: Taegu Power 






Audio One: Interruptable Voice 


Audio Three: News 

Audio Four: Unintruptable Voice 





Video: The Pentagon Channel Record ID 119 

Audio One: The Pentagon Channel 

Audio Two: Split Voice Channels 







Video: AFN|family Regional Record ID 120 

Audio One: AFN|family Regional 

Audio Two: Interruptible Voice 




High Speed Data: 128 Kbps, RS-422 Data (Navy DTS)





Video: AFN|movies Korea Record ID 121 

Audio One: AFN|movies Korea 









Audio One: Korea Eagle 









Audio One: Korea Power 









Audio One: Taegu Eagle 









Audio One: Taegu Power 











Audio One: Korea Contingency Spare 









Audio One: DriveFX 



























Audio One: NPR International 






































Audio One: Z-Rock (ABC Hard Rock) 




















Audio One: Fox Sports Radio Plus 






4. DTS (Navy) 





Video: Pacific Entertainment Record ID 139 

Audio One: Pacific Entertainment 

Audio Two: Music Service 1 







Video: Pacific News Record ID 140 

Audio One: Pacific News 

Audio Two: Voice Line 







Video: Pacific Sports Record ID 141 

Audio One: Pacific Sports 








Video: Atlantic Entertainment Record ID 142 

Audio One: Atlantic Entertainment 





High Speed Data: 128 Kbps, RS-422 Data (Navy DTS





Video: Atlanitc News Record ID 143 

Audio One: Atlantic News 

Audio Two: Voice Line 







Video: Atlantic Sports Record ID 144 

Audio One: Atlantic Sports 





High Speed Data: 128 Kbps, RS-422 Data (Navy DTS)

Virtual Channel Guide for Data Services 

Current as of Oct 2009 


Service Channel Expansion Port (Service) High Speed Data (Service) 

AFN 01 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel None 

AFN 02 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel 1.544 Mbps, RS-422 data channel (Stars and Stripes) 

AFN 03 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel 128 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (AFN DTS) 

AFN 04 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 64 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (DCB Mux) 

AFN 05 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) None 

AFN 06 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 1.544 Mbps, RS-422 data channel (Stars and Stripes) 



AFN 09 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 128 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (AFN DTS) 
























Appendix A page 55


Virtual Channel Guide for Data Services 

AFNE (Europe) Channel Guide 

Service Channel Expansion Port (Service) High Speed Data (Service) 

AFNE 01 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) None 

AFNE 02 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 1.544 Mbps, RS-422 data channel (ADNET) 

AFNE 03 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 128 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (AFN DTS) 

AFNE 04 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 64 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (DCB Mux) 





AFNE 09 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time code) 128 Kbps, RS-422 data channel (AFN DTS) 






Channels 20-43 as well as channels 50, 51, 61, 112, and 113, have 9.6 Kbps, RS-232 data channel (time 

code) 

Appendix A page 56


Appendix B: RF Link Budgets 

SATNET: The following technical information is presented to assist personnel who 

operate SATNET satellite reception systems. The information presented is for reference 

purposes only; for assistance with actual satellite design requirements for your location, 

please contact HQ AFRTS or AFRTS-BC engineering. 

DTS: The following technical information is presented to assist personnel who operate 

DTS satellite reception systems both aboard ship and at land based locations. The 

information presented is for reference purposes only; for assistance with actual satellite 

design requirements for your location, please contact AFRTS. For DTS shipboard 

applications please contact Naval Media Center, Washington, DC, or the Space and 

Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, CA. 

RF Link Budgets: An RF link budget is primarily a series of calculations that 

determine the signal loss between a satellite transmitter and a given earth station or 

receive antenna. The main consideration in these calculations is downlink carrier-tonoise 

density (C/NO) which is represented by equation (1): 

C/NO = EIRP – PL + G/T + 228.6 (1) 

Where: 

EIRP = Satellite’s Effective Isotropic Radiated Power expressed in dBW. The satellite 

operator specifies this figure. For the SATNET and DTS C-Band Service, in the POR , 

the EIRP 29 dBW, in the AOR the EIRP 30.5 dBW, and the SATNET Ku-Band Service’s 

EIRP is 47.7 dBW. 

PL = Path Loss expressed in dB. This is the free space dissipation of the satellite’s 

transmitted power as a function of distance. The PL calculation is shown in equation (2) 

below. 

G/T = Earth station figure of merit expressed in dB/K. The G/T calculation is shown in 

equation (3) below. 

228.6 = Boltzmann’s constant expressed in dB/K/Hz. 

PL = 185.0 + 10LOG[1-(0.295 CosH CosAL)] + 20LOG(Frequency in GHz) (2) 

Where: 

H = Earth station latitude 

AL = Difference in longitude of the satellite and the earth station 

G/T = Net Antenna Gain – 10LOG(System Noise Temperature) (3) 

Where: 

Net Antenna Gain = antenna gain – waveguide losses – coupler mismatch losses 

System Noise Temperature = LNB noise temperature + antenna noise temperature + 

VSWR noise contribution and mismatch loss + interface waveguide noise. 

Appendix B page 57

Typical SATNET C-Band Link Budget 


Conditions 

Beam type Global Beam 

Antenna Size (Rx) 4.5 M 

Antenna Size (Tx) 18 M 

Symbol Rate 28.0 Msym/sec 

Usable Information Rate 42.58 Mbps 

Reed-Solomon Inner Coding 188/204 

Coding Rate ¾ 

Parameter Uplink Values Downlink Values Units 

I. Uplink 

Earth Station EIRP 80.4 dBW 

Pointing Loss 0.5 dB 

Path Loss 200.2 dB 

Rain Attenuation 0.1 dB 

Isotropic Antenna Area 37.0 dB/m 2 

SFD at Beam Edge -83.0 dBW/ m 2 

G/T at Beam Edge -10.0 dB/K 

Uplink Thermal C/N 23.3 dB 

Uplink IM EIRP Density 10.0 dBW/4kHz 

Uplink Intermodulation C/N 31.5 dB 

Total Uplink C/(N+I) 22.7 dB 

II. Transponder IM Noise 

IMP Density at Beam Edge -36.0 dBW/4kHz 

C/IM 23.3 dB 

III. Downlink 

Beam Edge XPDR EIRP 29 dBW 


Earth Station G/T 24.2 dB/K 

Downlink Thermal C/N 7.3 dB 

IV. Co-Channel Interference 30.0 dB 

V. Total C/(N+I) Noise 

Total C/(N+I) 9.3 dB 

C/(NO + IO) Total 81.78 dB-Hz 

Information Rate in dB 76.29 dB 

Eb/NO Total 7.86 dB 

Eb/NO Required 5.5 dB 

Link Margin 2.4 dB 

Appendix B page 58

Typical SATNET Ku-Band Link Budget 


Conditions 

Beam type Spot 


Antenna Size (Tx) 9.0 M 




Coding Rate ¾ 


I. Uplink 







G/T at Beam Edge 0.0 dB/K 







C/IM 40.5 dB 

III. Downlink 

Beam Edge XPDR EIRP 43.3 dBW 








Information Rate in dB 24.0 dB 




Appendix B page 59

DTS Link Calculations 


Conditions 

Beam type Global Beam 


Antenna Size (Tx) 11 M 




Coding Rate 2/3 


I. Uplink 







G/T at Beam Edge -12.0 dB/K 







C/IM 35.4 dB 

III. Downlink 

Beam Edge XPDR EIRP 29.0 dBW 








Information Rate 66.55 dB 




Appendix B page 60


Appendix C: Dish Pointing Data (using magnetic north) Aug 2007 

AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST, SW ASIA LAT LOG Magnetic Satellite Type Polarization Location: Mag Elevation: 

Country, City 

Variation: 

Azimuth: 

Afghanistan, Kabul 34.35N 69.12E MV 13.5E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0E 246.8 19.2 

INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.1E 135.1 9.4 

Algeria, Alger 28.00N 3.00E MV:2.01W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 106.59 17.03 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 160.5 55.5 

“ INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 359 E 190.48 57.02 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 225.8 47.3 

Azerbaijan, Baku 40.23 N 39.51 E MV: 4.95 

E 

HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU V 13.0 E 213.2 36.1 

Bahrain, Manama 26.13N 50.35 E MV:2.12E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 149.01 55.88 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 237.9 38.8 


“ NSS-802 C LHC 338.0 E 259.9 7.2 

Bangladesh, Dhaka 24.00N 90.25E MV: 56W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 231.05 49.37 

Cameroon, Yaounde 6.00 N 12.00 E MV: 2.79 W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 96.6 25.0 

“ “ NSS-802 C LHC 338.0 E 263.4 50.0 

British Indian Ocean Territory, 

Diego Garcia 

7.26 S 72.37 E MV: 7.59W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 318.25 76.99 


Djibouti, Djibouti 11.30 N 43.00 E MV: 1.07 

E 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 263.4 16.1 


Egypt, Cairo 30.50 N 31.00 E MV: 2.61 

E 


“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0E 209.9 49.4 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 246.3 23.2 

India, New Delhi 28.36 N 77.12 E MV: 0.51 

E 

INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 205.62 53.87 

Ivory Coast, Abidjan 5.19 N 4.02 W MV: 8.54 

W 

NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 260.7 68.1 

Iraq, Baghdad 33.20 N 44.26E MV: 4.81 HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 Ku H 13.0E 224.6 38.7 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338 E 253.1 11.0 

Basra 30.5 N 47.75 E MV: 5.12 HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 Ku H 13.0E 197.8 33.5 

NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 235.2 15.8 

Appendix C page 11


Mosul 36.19 N 43.9 E MV: 4.87 HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 Ku H 13.0E 207.4 35.0 

NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 137.5 32.9 

Israel, Jerusalem 31.46 N 35.14 E MV: 2.76 HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU V 13.0 E 222.2 14.1 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 248.3 19.4 

“ INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 130.68 41.87 

Tel Aviv 32.05 N 34.48 E MV: 3.13 INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 130.03 40.97 

E 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 213.5 46.0 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 247.7 19.7 

Kenya, Nairobi 1.17 S 36.49 E MV:0.1W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 87.90 57.85 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 270.6 23.5 


Kuwait, Kuwait City 29.30 N 47.45 E MV: INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 146.19 51.29 

2.55E 

“ “ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 231.8 39.3 

“ “ INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 359 E 244.01 27.64 

“ “ NSS-802 C LHC 338.0 E 256.79 9.68 

Malawi, Banjul 13.28 N 16.39 W 

MV:11.28W 

NSS-802 C LHC 338.0 E 212.55 73.30 

“ “ “ INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 103.51 0.66 

Mali, Bamako 12.39 N 8.00 W MV: 7.15 

W 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 235.1 68.2 


Morocco, Rabat 34.02 N 6.51 W MV: 4.78 

W 

HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 151.1 45.3 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 209.7 47.1 

Mozambique, Maputo 26.00 S 32.25 E MV:17.08 

W 



“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 305.5 23.7 

Pakistan, Islamabad 33.42 N 73.10 E MV: 1.59 

E 


Saudi Arabia Jiddah (Jeddah) 21.30 N 39.12 E MV: 2.02 

E 


“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 231.1 51.4 

Appendix C page 12


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 256.3 18.5 


KKMC 27.80 N 45.50 E MV:2.37 E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 140.6 51.1 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 231.1 41.8 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 256.4 11.3 


Saudi Arabia (Continued) Riyadh 24.39N 46.43 E MV: 2.13E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 138.9 54.75 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 235.8 43.1 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 258.5 11.0 

Tabuk 28.23 N 36.35E MV: 2.76 E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 129.32 45.18 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 219.6 48.2 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 250.9 19.3 

South Africa, Capetown 33.55 S 18.22 E MV: INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 83.73 27.86 

22.00W 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 327.0 32.2 

Pretoria 25.45 S 28.10 E 14.29 W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 73.59 40.40 

“ INTELSAT 10-02 C LHC 359 E 321.96 46.07 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 305.9 27.7 

Tunisia, Tunis 36.48 N 10.11 E MV: 0.44 INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 113.01 20.13 

E 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 174.4 47.6 


“ 

Turkey (See Europe table) 

NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 225.8 35.9 

Uganda, Kampala 0.19 N 32.25 E MV: 0.28 INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 90.03 53.03 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 269.5 28.1 

United Arab Emirates (UAE), 24.28 N 54.22 E MV: 1.45 INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 155.81 59.54 

Abu Dhabi 

E 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 243.4 36.3 


Yemen, Sanaa 15.23 N 44.12 E MV:1.28 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 244.9 50.1 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 261.8 14.6 


Appendix C page 13

AMERICAS Country, City LAT LOG Magnetic 

Variation: 


Satellite Type Polarization: 

Appendix C page 14 

Location: 

Mag 

Azimuth: 

Columbia, Bogota 14.66 N 74.12 W MV: 5.0 W INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 359 E 99.40 7.70 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 108.7 28.8 

Cuba, Guantanamo Bay 19.93 N 75.12 W MV: 5.72 W NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 112.0 26.6 

“ IA-8 C H 89.0 E 224.2 61.8 

Ecuador, Quito 0.13 S 78.30 W MV: 1.17 E NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 91.6 25.9 

Honduras, Soto Cano AB 14.37 N 87.60W MV:1.76 E NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 103.9 24.6 

IA-8 C H 89.0 222.4 69.1 

Puerto Rico, Roosevelt Roads 18.23 N 65.65 W MV:12.87W INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 359 E 111.30 15.62 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 121.2 36.4 

“ IA-8 C H 89.0 E 247.5 55.8 

Venezuela, Caracas 10.66 N 66.82 W MV: 9.87 W INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 359 E 104.62 15.36 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 112.0 37.3 

Elevation: 

ASIA Country, City LAT LOG Magnetic 

Mag 

Variation: 

Satellite 

Type Polarization: Location: Azimuth: Elevation: 

Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan 4.95 N 114.6 E MV:0.32E NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 91.6 13.0 

Burma, Rangoon 16.47 N 96.10 E MV :0.78 E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 245.9 48.7 

China Beijing 39.55 N 166.25 E MV:5.82 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 158.0 42.1 

NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 110.8 9.1 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 216.9 39.2 

Shanghai 31.01 N 121.30E MV: 4.63 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 112.2 18.2 

NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 110.3 15.6 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 228.6 44.0 


Indonesia, Jakarta 6.10 S 106.48 E MV: 0.12W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 276.74 40.57 

“ POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 88.32 7.77 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 88.3 4.7 

Japan, Atsugi 35.27 N 139.27 E MV: 7.39 W INTELSAT 701 C LHC 180.0 E 131.2 30.8 

NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 128.5 28.5 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 246.7 28.1 

Iwakuni 34.15 N 132.24 E MV: 7.27 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 117.0 25.99 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 121.7 23.6 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 240.0 34.0 


Misawa (Misawa AB) 40.68 N 141.36E MV:8.48 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 129.2 28.70


“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 135.0 26.8 

NSS-6 Ku VP 97 E 246.8 23.6 

Okinawa (Camp Butler) 26.31 N 127.79 E MV: 4.28 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 113.24 24.48 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 111.1 22.7 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 239.9 42.5 


Sasebo 33.17 N 129.72 E MV: 6.01 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 114.4 24.4 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 119.0 22.0 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 238.5 36.5 


Tokyo (Yokota AB) 35.75 N 139.34 E MV:6.50 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 124.2 30.5 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 129.0 28.3 

NSS-6 Ku VP 97 E 246.7 27.8 

Johnston Island Atoll 16.73 N 169.52 W MV:1024 E POR DTS C LHC 180.0E 202.48 66.94 

Korea, Kwangju 35.09 N 126.54 E MV:6.69 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 113.1 21.0 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 117.6 18.6 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 233.6 37.3 


Osan (Osan AB) 37.08 N 127.03 E MV:7.22 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 121.68 20.58 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 119.6 18.3 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 233.5 35.5 


Seoul 37.60 N 126.98 E MV: 7.12 W POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 121.79 20.31 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 120.0 18.0 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 233.3 35.1 


Taegu (AFKN) 35.84 N 128.59 E MV:6.73 POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 121.78 22.34 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 120.2 20.0 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95E 236.0 35.4 


Guam, Agana 13.4N 114.75 E MV:0.7 W NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 96.0 12.6 

Hong Kong 22.28 N 114.2 E MV:1.88 W NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 100.2 11.0 

“ NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 224.5 56.1 

Malaysia, Singapore 1.22 N 103.48 E MV:0.43 W INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 268.95 44.29 

Marshall Islands, Kwajalein Island 8.73 N 167.74 E MV:8.65 E POR DTS C LHC 180.0 E 116.29 72.36 

“ NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 110.7 69.4 

Philippines, Manila 14.55 N 121.0 E MV :1.27 W NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 98.9 18.8 

NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 244.0 55.5 

Taiwan, Taipei 25.0 N 121.5 E MV :3.43 W NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 106.4 17.3 

Appendix C page 15


NSS-6 Ku VP 95 E 233.1 48.4 

Viet Nam, Ho Chi Minh City 10.7 N 106.7 E MV:0.12W NSS-9 C LHC 177 W 92.7 4.8 

EUROPE 

Country, City 

LAT LOG Magnetic 

Variation: 

Satellite: Type: 

Appendix C page 16 

Mag 

Azimuth: 

Type Polarizatio 

n: 

Location: 

Albania, Tirania 41.20N 19.49E MV: 1.92 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 187.3 41.9 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 230.8 26.5 


Austria, Vienna 48.12N 16.22E MV: 2.15 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 182.1 34.7 

Belgium, SHAPE 50.50N 04.20E MV: 1.95 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 170.0 31.5 

Mons 50.58 N 4.05 E MV: 1.94 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 169.9 31.4 

Bosnia Herzegovina, Sarajevo 43.52 N 18.25 E MV: 2.14 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 185.2 39.5 

Bulgaria, Sofia 42.41N 23.19E MV: 2.91 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 191.8 40.0 

Cyprus, Nicosia 35.10N 33.22E MV: 3.08 E INTELSAT 906 C LHC 64.0 E 130.91 37.80 

“ HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0E 209.3 43.9 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 244.9 19.6 

Finland, Helsinki 60.10N 24.58E MV: 6.23 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 187.2 21.1 

France Istres 43.31N 04.59E MV:1.37 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 168.5 39.3 

Paris 48.52N 02.20E MV: 2.46 w HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 165.9 38.6 

Germany Baumholder 49.37N 07.20E MV: 1.23 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 172.7 33.1 

Bitburg 49.58N 06.31E MV: 1.15 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 171.8 32.8 

Frankfurt 50.13N 8.68 E MV: 0.46 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 174.2 32.4 

Garmisch 47.29N 11.05E MV: 0.17 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 176.4 35.6 

Hannau 50.08N 08.55E MV: 0.44W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 196.1 32.4 

Heidelberg 49.25N 08.43E MV: 0.47 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 173.9 33.3 

Kaiserlautern (Ramstein) 49.26N 07.46E MV: 1.25 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 173.9 33.3 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 217.6 26.5 


Stuttgart 48.46N 09.11E MV: 0.45 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 174.5 34.2 

Vilseck 49.37N 11.48E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 

Wiesbaden 50.05N 08.14E MV: 0.37 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 173.7 32.4 

Wurzburg 49.48N 09.56E MV: 0.64 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 175.0 33.2 

Greece Athens 37.59N 23.44E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 194.1 45.1 

(Crete) Souda Bay 35.29N 24.42E MV: 2.44 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 196.7 47.2 

Elevation:



(Crete) Souda Bay (continued) NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 238.6 26.5 


Hungary, Budapest 47.30N 19.05E MV: 2.28 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 185.4 35.3 

Iceland, Keflavik 63.96N 22.60W MV: 20.60W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 160.6 12.4 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 198.3 17.8 

Ireland, Dublin 53.20N 06.15W MV: 7.70 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 162.6 26.7 

Italy Aviano 46.04N 12.36E MV: 1.00 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 177.8 37.0 

La Maddalena 41.13N 09.24E MV: 0.22 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 173.7 42.3 

Livorno (Pisa) 43.33N 10.19E MV: 0.30 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 175.1 39.9 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 221.7 30.5 


Naples 40.50N 14.13E MV: 1.31 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 180.2 43.2 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 226.7 30.4 


Sicily AFN-S Station Sigonella 37.43N 14.97E MV: 1.01 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 181.7 46.6 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 229.5 32.0 


Vicenza 45.33N 11.33E MV: 0.13 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 176.6 37.8 

Lithuania, Vilnius 54.41N 25.19E MV: 4.85 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 189.7 26.9 

Madeconia, (Former Yugoslav 42.00N 21.29E MV: 2.30 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 189.4 40.8 

Republic), Skopje 

Netherlands The Hague 52.05N 04.18E MV: 2.14 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 170.5 29.9 

Maastricht 50.52N 05.43E MV: 2.10 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 171.2 31.7 

Norway Oslo 59.55N 10.45E MV: 0.51 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 177.0 22.4 

Stavanger 58.58N 05.45E MV: 3.35 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 171.8 22.9 

Poland, Warsaw 52.13N 21.02E MV: 3.42 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 186.4 29.9 

Portugal, Azores (Lajes Field) 38.30N 28.00W MV: 12.92 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 137.6 28.7 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 184.4 45.2 

Portugal (continued), Lisbon 38.43N 09.08W MV: 5.72 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 7 KU H 13.0 E 151.3 39.9 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 204.6 43.5 

Romania, Bucharest 44.26N 26.06E MV: 3.98 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 194.6 37.3 

Appendix C page 17


Spain, Madrid 40.24N 03.41W MV: 3.70 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13. E 158.2 40.5 

Moron (Moron de la Frontiera) 37.08N 05.27W MV: 4.21 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13. E 154.5 42.9 

Rota 36.37N 06.21W MV: 5.01 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 153.0 43.2 


“ INTELSAT 10-02 C RHC 1.0 W 176.11 47.13 

“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 208.9 44.6 

Sweden, Stockholm 59.20N 18.03E MV: 3.21 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 182.5 22.6 

Switzerland, Geneva 46.12 N 6.09 E MV: 0.77 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 170.8 36.5 

Turkey, Adana 37.01N 35.18E MV: 3.47 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 210.4 41.1 

Adara 39.56N 32.52E MV: 3.61 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 205.3 39.9 

Incirlik 37.00 N 35.83 E MV: 3.40 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0E 211.2 40.8 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 245.50 16.8 


Izmir 38.25N 27.09E MV: 3.08 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 198.9 43.3 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 238.6 22.9 


Ukraine, Kiev 50.50 N 30.50 E MV: 5.76 E HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 196.6 29.8 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 233.7 14.4 


United Kingdom, Cambridge 52.13N 00.80E MV: 3.92 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 170.3 29.8 

London 51.30N 00.07W MV:4.64 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0 E 166.5 30.0 

Reading 51.47N 0.98 W MV: 4.56 W HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 KU H 13.0E 165.8 29.6 


“ NSS-7 C LHC 338.0 E 209.5 27.9 

Notes: Higher elevations “higher look angles”, typically result in better reception and less interference. If there is a choice 

between two satellites all other things being equal, the one with the higher elevation will normally get the better signal. 

Because of the way the Direct to Sailor signal is sent it may have better reception in some locations even though it is 

lower in the sky. The best thing to do is to try out each signal available and choose the best one. 

Appendix C page 18


Appendix D AFRTS Satellite Information 

Current as of 29 Jan 08 

AFRTS SatNet Service 

NewSkies NSS-9 (C-band) (dual transponders) 

Location: 183 degrees East 

Band: C 

Transponder Antenna polarization: Left-hand circular 

Receiver Setting Polarization: “H-fixed” for model 9234 consumer-grade decoders or “H” 

for commercial-grade decoders with dual-band LNBs 

C Band Downlink Frequency: 3647.1250 MHz and 3683.0 MHz 

L-Band: 1502.875 MHz and 1467.0 MHz 

Symbol Rate: 28.0000 MS/s 

FEC Rate: ¾ 

EIRP: 35.5 dBW 

Network ID: 2 and 8 

Coverage Map: http://www.newskies.com/newhome/home_net.asp# click on the map and 

select NSS-5 and then the C-band half of the satellite. The north-west zone beam is AFRTS. 

NewSkies NSS-6 (Ku-band) (dual transponders) 


Band: Ku 

Transponder Antenna polarization: Vertical Polarization** 

Receiver Setting Polarization: “V-fixed” for model 9234 consumer-grade decoders or “V” 


Ku Band Downlink Frequency: 12.647 GHz and 12.688 GHz 

Transponder: B5 and C3 

L-Band: 2.047 GHz* and 2.088 GHz* 


FEC Rate: ¾ 

EIRP: 53.7 dBW center pattern 

Network ID: 4 

Coverage Map: http://www.newskies.com/newhome/home_net.asp# click on the map and 

select NSS-6 and then the Ku-band half of the satellite (lower half. Now hover the mouse 

over the Japan/Korea area. 

INTELSAT 10-02 (South America, Africa, and Atlantic Ocean Region) 

Location: 359 degrees East (1 degree West) 

Band: C 

Transponder Antenna Polarization: RHCP 

Receiver Setting Polarization: “H-fixed” 

C-Band Frequency: 4.1750 GHz 

Transponder: 38 

L-Band frequency: 975 MHz 

Appendix D page 19


Symbol rate: 28.0000 MS/s 

FEC rate: ¾ 

EIRP: 35 dBW 

Network ID 3 

Coverage Map: http://www.intelsat.com/images/en/resources/coveragemaps/maps/10-02- 

359-global.jpg 

IntelSat Galaxy 28 (United States/Central America/Caribbean) 

Location: 89 degrees West 

Band: C/L Band 

C-band frequency: 4.060 GHz 

Transponder: 18 

Transponder Antenna Polarization: Horizontal Polarization 





FEC rate: ¾ 

EIRP: 42 dBW 

Network ID 9 

Coverage Map: http://www.intelsat.com/apps/coveragemaps/images/en/resources/coveragemaps/maps/IA-8-C-band-NA.jpg 

HOTBIRDS 6 & 9 (Europe) 

Location: 9 and 13 degrees East (co-located together) 

Band: Ku 

Transponder Antenna Polarization: Vertical Polarization 

Transponder: 113 (6), 129 (7A) 


for commercial-grade decoders with dual-band LNBs based on transponder settings 

Ku Band Downlink Frequency: 10.775 GHz (6), 11.096 (7A) 

L-Band/LO frequency: 1025 MHz* (assuming 9.750 MHz LNB Frequency) 


FEC rate: ¾ 


Network ID 6 

Coverage map: http://www.eutelsat.org/satellites/9e_eb9_popd.html 

Appendix D page 20

Direct To Sailor (DTS) Service 


INTELSAT 701 (Pacific Ocean) 


Band: C 

Transponder number: 88 

Transponder Antenna Polarization: LHCP 


C-Band frequency: 4.1735 GHz 

L-Band frequency: 976.5 MHz 


FEC rate: 2/3 


Network ID 5 

Coverage map: http://www.intelsat.com/images/en/resources/coveragemaps/maps/701-180global.jpg 

(global) 

INTELSAT 906 (Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf) 

Location: 64.1 degrees East 

Band: C 




C-Band frequency: 4093.5 MHz 

L-Band frequency: 1056.5 MHz 


FEC Rate: 2/3 


Network ID 7 

Coverage map: http://www.intelsat.com/images/en/resources/coveragemaps/maps/906-64global.jpg 

(global) 

New Skies NSS-7 (Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea) 

Location: 338.0 degrees East (22 degrees West) 

Band: C 




C-Band frequency: 4115 MHz 



FEC Rate: 2/3 


Network ID 6 

Coverage map: http://www.newskies.com/PBFleet/fleet7new.asp (global) 

Appendix D page 21


IntelSat 707 C Band Domestic to Clarksburg 


Band: C 


Transponder Polarity: Left-hand Circular 


C-Band frequency: 3.77249 GHz 

L-Band frequency: 1.27751 GHz 

Network ID 2 

EIRP: 17.3 dbw 

AMC-1 Ku Band (The Pentagon Channel) 


Band: Ku 


Transponder Polarity: Vertical Polarization 

Receiver Setting Polarization: Vertical 

Ku band frequency: 12.100 GHz* 


Symbol Rate: 20,000 MS/s 

FEC Rate: ¾ 

Network ID:1 

Encryption: none 

Coverage map: http://www.ses-americom.com/satellites/amc-1.html 

* Important note on LNB frequencies: all C-band LNB’s have a local oscillator (L.O.) frequency of 5.150 GHz but 

Ku-band LNB’s may come in many different frequencies typically 9.750 to 12.75 GHz. This figure is typically printed 

on a label on the side of the LNB. This means that if you’re attempting to watch a Ku-band service you need to set the 

decoder’s frequency using a bit of simple math. The formula to set the Ku-Low/Single L.O. frequency on the AFRTS 

decoder is the downlink frequency minus the L.O. frequency. As an example the downlink frequency for the NSS-6 

satellite serving the Japan and Korea Direct to Home service area is 12.647 GHz. An LNB with a local oscillator 

frequency of 10.000 GHz would give a Ku Low/Single L.O. frequency of 2647 MHz (2.647 GHz) by working the math 

problem 12.6470 – 10.000 = 2.647. The Ku-band satellites serving the European service area are Hotbirds 6 & 7 at 13 

degrees east and it has a downlink frequency of 10.775 GHz. Connecting an LNB with a local oscillator frequency of 

9.750 would result in a receiver frequency of 1025 MHz (10.775 – 9.750 = 1.025 GHz which is 1025 MHz). 

**Important note on NSS-6 polarization: Low Noise Block down converters (LNB’s) can come with one of two 

different configurations – either circular or linear. LNB’s typically have their polarization marked on their label. Prior 

to January of 2005 the satellite that provided the Direct-to-Home service for the Japan and Korea audiences was 

circularly polarized and satellite dish systems sold to those customers were also circularly polarized. In January of 2005 

the satellite feeding these signals failed and service was shifted to NewSkies NSS-6 Ku band service which uses a linear 

antenna to vertically polarize the signal. Customers with circular LNB feedhorn assemblies can still receive the linear 

signals they just lose 3dB of the signal. This loss shouldn’t be an issue with the high power Ku signal NSS-6 provides. 

However in the future linear LNB’s may be purchased and installed in the Japan and Korea area which will add an 

additional step in tuning the antenna. Linear LNB’s require a polarization peaking where the LNB is rotated clockwise 

and counterclockwise within their mounting on the dish to peak the signal. As the feed assembly is rotated through 

ninety degrees the signal will change from maximum down to minimum. Once the point of maximum signal is found 

the point is marked with a magic marker and the screws holding the LNB feed assembly in place are tightened down. 

Appendix D page 22


Appendix E: PV Connect Decoder Authorization Procedures 

1. In your Internet browser go to www.pvconnect.net. 

2. Select “authorize decoder”. 

PowerVu Welcome Screen 

3. Enter the TID and UA numbers which can be found on the back of your decoder. 

TID and UA Screen 

4. Click on the next button to advance to the next page. 

5. Enter your decoder boxes physical location, first the country and then the location within that 

country. 

Appendix E page 23

6. Click on the next button to proceed. 


Country and Locality Screen 

7. On this data page you can click on “help” for assistance. 

8. The first section is to record information about the owner of the decoder. If you are leasing the 

decoder the location of the location of the exchange should have already been typed in here for you. 

The telephone number should be an individual’s personal phone number rather than a common 

number like a generic base number. E-mail addresses ending in .mil are preferred. Other E-mail 

addresses will require further verification. If you leave the rotation field black the decoder will be 

deauthorized in three years from the date the request is processed. 

Decoder and Customer Info Page 

Appendix E page 24


9. The next section is about where the decoder was purchased. In the case of a leased decoder this 

field indicates the owner of the decoder such as the local AFFES store. In the case of an owned 

decoder this field indicates the location from which the owner purchased the decoder such as a local 

NEX or BX. If the selection list doesn’t cover your situation select “other” and enter the source 

name and contact telephone number. 

Owner/Seller Page 

10. The next section is about where the decoder will be used. Do not enter PO boxes or APO 

addresses here. Enter the physical overseas address with the local countries street address, city, 

state/province and their postal codes. This will not be a United States based address. 

Leased Customer or User Page 

11. The next section is for the mailing address of the decoder user. The country should normally be 

the United States but possibly the same address as entered just above. Use APO and FPO addresses 

if available. 

Appendix E page 25


Mailing Address Page 

12. The final section is required to authorize the decoder. Click on the “Agree” or “Do not agree” 

button after reading the text. You can only go to the next step if you click “Agree”. 

User Agreement Page 

13. You’ll next be given a chance to verify your data. Remember that your “Leased Customer or 

User of Decoder issued from Owner” is your physical overseas address like Germany, Japan, or 

Iraq. “Your Mailing Address” should most likely be a United States based APO or FPO. 

14. After verifying your data you can have a copy of the receipt e-mailed to an additional address. 

The system will automatically e-mail a receipt to the address supplied in step 8. 

Appendix E page 26


List of Tables 

Table 4-1 Spectrum Analyzer Setup.............................................................................................................................. 4-18 

Table 4-2 Typical Satellite Receiver Setup ................................................................................................................... 4-19 

Table 4-3 Bit Error Rate (BER) to Threshold Margin Table......................................................................................... 4-20 

Table 5-1 IRD Pre-sets .................................................................................................................................................. 5-17 

Table 6-1 Downstream Channel Capacity..................................................................................................................... 6-23 

Table 6-2 Upstream channel capacity............................................................................................................................ 6-23 

Table 6-3 Performance Standards for Acceptable CATV Operations........................................................................... 6-25 

Table 7-1 TV Services Cue Function Assignments......................................................................................................... 7-3 

Table 7-2 Radio Service Cue Function Assignments ...................................................................................................... 7-3 

Table 7-3 BCD Function ................................................................................................................................................. 7-4 

Table 8-1 64 Kbps high-speed pin-out .......................................................................................................................... 8-11 

Table 8-2 SR menu commands...................................................................................................................................... 8-13 

Table 8-3 Test Tool Commands .................................................................................................................................... 8-13 

Table 8-4 SR-8 voice channel settings .......................................................................................................................... 8-14 

Table 8-5 IRD polling commands ................................................................................................................................. 8-20 

List of figures 

Figure 3-1 Block level system diagram........................................................................................................................... 3-2 

Figure 3-2 Connecting an IRD to a monitor or TV receiver............................................................................................ 3-4 

Figure 3-3 AFRTS SATNET network diagram............................................................................................................... 3-5 

Figure 3-4 AFRTS SATNET IntelSat Americas-8 footprint........................................................................................... 3-5 

Figure 3-5 AFRTS SATNET NewSkies NSS-5 and NSS-6 footprints .......................................................................... 3-6 

Figure 3-6 AMC-1 Ku coverage.................................................................................................................................... 3-13 

Figure 4-1 Satellite dish parts.......................................................................................................................................... 4-3 

Figure 4-2 An offset satellite antenna.............................................................................................................................. 4-4 

Figure 4-3 Feedhorn assembly ........................................................................................................................................ 4-6 

Figure 4-4 Focal length ................................................................................................................................................... 4-7 

Figure 5-1 Satellite Pointing Tools.................................................................................................................................. 5-2 

Figure 5-2 Installation Parts ............................................................................................................................................ 5-3 

Figure 5-3 IRD Connections............................................................................................................................................ 5-3 

Figure 5-4 Antenna angle display.................................................................................................................................... 5-4 

Figure 5-5 Look angle adjustment................................................................................................................................... 5-5 

Figure 5-6 Azimuth setting.............................................................................................................................................. 5-6 

Figure 5-7 BSR Main Menu .......................................................................................................................................... 5-12 

Figure 5-8 Receiver Status Menu .................................................................................................................................. 5-12 

Figure 5-9 Receiver Setup Menu................................................................................................................................... 5-13 

Figure 5-10 9834 IRD Main Menu................................................................................................................................ 5-16 

Figure 5-11 Preset and LNB Setup Menu...................................................................................................................... 5-16 

Figure 7-1 Wegner system wiring ................................................................................................................................... 7-6 

Figure 7-2 Wegner decoder front face plate .................................................................................................................... 7-7 

Figure 8-1 PowerVu Datacasting .................................................................................................................................... 8-2 

Figure 8-2 PowerVu IRD RS-232 wiring........................................................................................................................ 8-3 

Figure 8-3 SR-8 connection to a printer and Figure 8-4 SR-8 connection to a PC terminal device ................................ 8-8 

Figure 8-5 SR-8 network management port to a terminal and......................................................................................... 8-9 

Figure 8-6 SR-8 network management port to a PC terminal ......................................................................................... 8-9 

Figure 8-7 PowerVu datacasting network ..................................................................................................................... 8-10 

Figure 8-8 SR-8 wiring.................................................................................................................................................. 8-11 

Figure 8-9 PowerVu Multiplexer to SR-8 and Figure 8-10 PowerVu IRD to SR-8......................................................8-12 

Figure 8-11 SR-8 output ports....................................................................................................................................... 8-12 

Figure 8-12 Fazzt network............................................................................................................................................. 8-15 

Figure 8-13 IRD to Kencast connection ........................................................................................................................ 8-15 

Figure 8-14 Fazzt configuration and interface............................................................................................................... 8-17 

Figure 8-15 IRD control via a PC.................................................................................................................................. 8-19 

Figure 8-16 Single IRD polling and Figure 8-17 Dual IRD polling.............................................................................. 8-19 

List of Tables and Figures

Index 

1.544 Mbps High Speed Data Channel, 8-14 

64 Kbps High Speed Data Channel, 8-3 

9223 Decoders 

Operating System Download Procedures, 11-2 

9234 Decoders, 11-1 

Operating System Download Procedures, 11-1 

Activation procedures, 2-6 

AFN entertainment, 3-7, 3-12 

AFN News, 3-7, 3-8, 3-12 

AFN Sports, 3-7, 3-8, 3-12 

AFRICA, 11 

AFRTS Operations, 1-1 

Aiming a satellite antenna, 5-1 

AIN (Affiliated Information Network program 

notes), 8-3 

Aircraft Radar Altimeters, 4-15 

Airport Ground Radar, 4-15 

AMC-1, 3-13 

AMERICAS, 14 

Amplifiers “LNA/B/C/F”, 4-4 

Antenna Focal length, 4-7 

Antenna Reflector, 4-3 

Antenna Setup, 5-4 

Appendix C: Dish Pointing Data, 11 

ASIA, 14 

Asynchronous Port Specifications, 8-7 

attenuator pads, 4-17 

AudioVault, 7-2 

BCD Function, 7-4 

Bit Error Rate (BER), 4-11 

Bit Error Rate Reading, 4-20 

Bit Error Rate to Threshold Margin Table, 4-20 

Bit Rate, 4-10 

B-MAC, 6-22 

Brewster Washington, 3-6 

broadband interference, 4-15 

buy my own decoder, 1-5 

cable distribution, 6-22 

CATV amplifiers, 6-24 

C-Band Satellite Service, 3-5 

Censorship, 1-1 

Channel Guide, 3-11 

Clarke Belt, 4-1 

Closed Caption Service, 10-1 

Color Performance Requirements, 6-27 

Commercial Microwave Ovens, 4-16 

Commercials, 1-1 

Compression, 4-17 

Concealment, 4-14 

Connecting the Antenna and Receiver, 5-2 

Cue Decoder Installation and Operation, 7-5 

Cueing, 7-29 

Data Channel Troubleshooting Guide, 8-17 


Record of Changes 

Datacasting, 8-1 

Datacasting on DTS, 8-15 

Decoder Setup Instructions, 5-9, 5-11, 5-15 

demultiplexer, 8-4 

Department of State, 1-2 

Destructive Interference, 4-12 

Direct-To-Sailors Satellite Network (DTS), 3-9 

Distribution of Multiple Video and Audio Services, 

6-22 

Downlink Reception, 4-1 

Downstream Channel Capacity, 6-23 

DTS Link Calculations, 11 

DTS Satellite Network Architecture, 3-10 

DTS Virtual Channel Guide, 5 

Early Bird, 3-12 

Earth Berms, 4-18 

Equipment Configuration, 4-1 

Equipment Needed for Direct to Sailor (DTS) Cband 

Digital Reception, 4-9 

Equipment Needed for SATNET C-band Digital 

Reception, 4-8 

Equipment Needed for SATNET Ku-band Digital 

Reception, 4-9 

Error Correction, 4-13 

EUROPE, 16 

European Ku-Band Satellite Services, 3-8 

Exchange/repair Point of Contact:, 2-9 

Fazzt, 8-14, 8-15, 8-16, 8-17, 8-18 

Feedhorn Adjustments, 4-7 

Feedhorn Assembly, 4-6 

Finding a Clear line of Sight, 5-1 

finding the AFRTS digital satellite signals, 5-1 

freeze frames, 5-20 

Goonhilly, 3-11 

Holmdel New Jersey, 3-6 

Hotbird 4, 3-8 

Impulse and Ignition Noise, 4-15 

integrated receiver/decoder, 3-4 

Interference, 4-14 

interference from airports, 4-16 

interrupt problem, 8-18 

IRD Authorization, 5-1 

IRD Control, 8-18 

IRD Polling, 8-18 

isotropic radiated power, 3-9 

L-band Frequency, 4-19 

List of figures, 27 

List of Tables, 27 

LNB Performance, 4-6 

local oscillator, 5-10, 5-14, 22 

Loopback Mode, 8-9 

Low Noise Block Converter Amplifier, 3-4 

Magnetic compass, 5-6

MIDDLE EAST, 11 

Model 9223 Setup, 5-9, 5-15 

Model 9234 Setup, 5-11 

MPEG, 3-3 

MPEG signal, 4-1 

MPEG-2, 3-2 

Navy News Wire Service, 3-12 

Network Alert System, 9-1 

New York Times Fax., 3-12 

NewsBoss, 8-4, 9-1 

Odetics, 7-29 

On-Line Multiplexing, 8-9 

on-screen menu, 5-19 

Out-of-band Filtering, 4-17 

Peaking the Antenna, 5-6 

Performance Specifications, 6-22 

Performance Standards for Acceptable CATV 

Operations, 6-25 

Personal Communication Systems (PCS), 4-16 

Picking Up the Satellite Signal, 5-5 

Polarization, 4-2, 4-8 

PowerVu, 3-2 

Introduction, 3-1 

Protection from Interference, 4-17 

Quadrature Phase Shift Keyed (QPSK), 4-13 

Quick Turn-Around Programming, 7-29 

radio networks, 3-7 

Radio Service Cue Function Assignments, 7-3 

Radio Waves, 4-2 

Random RFI, 4-16 

Receiver Setup, 4-19 

Receiver/Decoder Threshold, 4-10 

Record of Publication and Changes Page, 2 

rent a decoder, 1-4 

RF Interference, 4-11 

RF Link Budgets, 8 

RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) Fencing, 4-17 

Satellite Concepts, 4-1 

SATNET C-Band Link Budget, 9 

SATNET Channel Guide, 3-6, 3-8 

SATNET Ku-Band Link Budget, 10 

Saturation, 4-17 


Record of Changes 

scalar feedhorn, 4-6 

Scheduling of Tests, 6-27 

serial printer, 8-2 

Ship-board Radar, 4-16 

Signal Frequency, 4-2 

Signal Leakage, 6-24 

Signal Quality, 6-24 

Simultaneous Receiver Decoder (SRD), 1-3 

soft decision convolutional decoding, 4-13 

Spectrum Analyzer, 4-5, 4-18, 5-5, 5-7 

Spectrum Analyzer Setup, 4-18 

Spectrum channel, 3-7 

SRD Equipment Configurations, 1-3 

STB file, 7-29 

Sun Outages, 4-11 

SW ASIA, 11 

Technical Reference 

DTS, 1 

SATNET, 1 

Technical Reference 

SATNET, 1 

Television and Radio Network Alert messages 

(NAS), 8-3 

Terrestrial Microwave Interference, 4-14 

Testing Procedures, 6-22, 6-26 

The Pentagon Channel, 3-13 

Tracking ID’s (TIDS), 11-3 

Trouble shooting satellite antennas, 5-7 

Troubleshooting Guide, 5-19 

TV Services Cue Function Assignments, 7-3 

Uninterruptible Voiceline, 3-7, 3-9, 3-12 

Upstream Channel Capacity, 6-23 

Usingen, 3-8 

Virtual Channel Guide for Data Services for 

AFRTS-BC, 6, 7 

Virtual Channel Guide for Data Services for ARNE 

AFNE, 7 

Virtual Channel Listings 

AFNE, 3 

AFRTS-BC, 2 

Wegener Tone Decoder, 7-2


Record of Publication and Changes Page 

Date Change 

15 Mar 2002 Changed look angles for all former EutelSat, now HotBird 4 customers. 

18 Mar 2002 Changed drawings to photographs in chapter 4. 

19 Mar 2002 Added item 14 (computer programs) to Fazzt requirements in chapter 7. Added appendix D. 

30 Mar 2002 Added figure 3-8, edited figure 3-3 graphics. 

1 Apr 2002 Published Version 2.00 

18 Apr 2002 Removed IntelSat 702 data and added INTELSAT 804 in Appendix D and chapter 3. 

19 Apr 2002 Corrected labels and references to figures 4-7, 4-8, and 4-9 (now 4-10). Fixed figures 4-6, 4-7, and a bug with “list 2” style. 

23 Apr 2002 Removed IntelSat 702 data from Pacific sites not covered by INTELSAT 804 in Appendix C. Added links to coverage maps in Appendix D. 

24 Apr 2002 Reformatted figure labels and numbering of tables in chapter 4. 

25 Apr 2002 Updated virtual channel guide changing Channel Guide to Program Guide. Added AFN prefix to some services. Corrected chapter 7’s figure and table labels. 

9 May 2002 Fixed wiring error in figure 7-2. Wiring to and from the RS-232 was reversed. Fixed label for port 4 in figure 7-7. Added missing steps 5-7 to quick set up procedure. 

Created Version 2.02 

26 Jun 2002 Updated figures 3-5, 3-6, and 3-7 

27 Jun 2002 Published version 2.02 

15 Jul 2002 Removed Whitinsville uplink and replaced with Holmdel NJ for Sept ’02 change. 

15 Jul 2002 In chapter 7 all references to chapter three were changed to Appendix A as the virtual channel guide is now an appendix. 

18 Jul 2002 Added SR-8 menu commands to chapter 7 in tables 7-2, 7-3, and 7-4. 

25 Jul 2002 Reviewed chapter 2 for updates and removed Deb Weitenhagen’s email from notification list. 

5 Aug 2002 Moved decoder setup information from chapter 4 into appendix D. Explained Ku-band decoder L.O. setup. 

6 Aug 2002 Published version 2.03 

7 Aug 2002 Replaced figures 3-8, 3-9, and 3-10. 

12 Aug 2002 Added DTS virtual channel information to appendix A. 

3 Sep 2002 Changed Scientific Atlanta’s RMA POC to Susan Ramkishun and changed contact phone number. 

3 Sep 2002 Corrected data in figure 3-5. 

3 Sep 2002 Updated DX procedures points of contacts changing T-ASA and HQ phone numbers. 

16 Sep 2002 Changed the name of NSS-803 to NSS-7, fixed figure 3-8 changing name of GE-1 to AMC-1. 

18 Sep 2002 Published version 2.04. 

19 Sep 2002 Replaced figure 4-10. 

19 Sep 2002 Added polarization setting instructions in chapter 4’s receiver setup step-by-step procedures. 

30 Sep 2002 Added how to read TIDs section to chapter 10 

16 Oct 02 Changed polarization setting in chapter 4’s step-by-step to H (fixed) rather than just H. 

18 Oct 02 Changed NSS-7 location from to 338.0 from 338.0 degrees, fixed some minor spelling errors. 

31 Oct 02 Added cues 9 and A to table 6-1 TV cues. 

6 Nov 2002 Removed Fort Greeley Alaska, Panama and SCN from appendix C. 

7 Nov 2002 Published version 2.05 

21 Nov 2002 Changed audio services 1 and 2 on virtual channel 1 to Sports 1 (ESPN) and Sports 2 (FOX) in appendix A 

21 Nov 2002 Removed IntelSat 703 and added INTELSAT 804 to Asian area of appendix C 

21 Nov 2002 Removed IntelSat 804 and replaced with IntelSat 906, changed figures 3-8 and 3-11 

21 Nov 2002 Fixed broken links to IntelSat’s coverage maps in appendix D 

25 Nov 2002 Fixed footers and page numbers in appendix Table and Headers. 

25 Nov 2002 Changed audio services 2 and 3 on channel 1 in appendix A 


2 Dec 2002 Edited appendix D pointing out the difference between antenna and receiver polarity and updated NSS-7 EIRP to 30.5 dB 

2 Dec 2002 Added technologist@dodmedia.osd.mil email address to notification section of chapter 2. 

Record of Changes

9 Jan 2003 Updated virtual channel guide in appendix A. 

15 Jan 2003 Undated decoder authorization process in chapter 1. 

16 Jan 03 Added faxable authorization form to chapter 1. 

28 Jan 03 Updated virtual channel guide in appendix A. 

28 Jan 03 Published version 2.07 

29 Jan 03 Updated figure 3-7 in chapter 3 with proper beam shape. 


6 Feb 03 Changed NSS-7 location to 338.0 in appendixes C and D and on figure 3-8 in chapter 3. 

24 Feb 03 Changed DOEE e-mail addresses to DEE in chapters 2 and 10. 

24 Feb 03 Published version 2.08 

27 Mar 03 Added sun outage description and troubleshooting areas in chapter 4 pages 4-19 and 4-33. 

3 Apr 03 Updated virtual channel guide in appendix A adding Pentagon Channel 

30 Apr 03 Added description of Pentagon Channel to chapter 3 

12 May 03 Updated authorization procedures in chapter 2 

12 May 03 Added privilege-holding employees of companies working DoD contracts as authorized viewers in chapter 1 

12 May 03 Changed AFRTS-HQ phone numbers in chapters 1 and 2. 

5 Jun 03 Updated changes to AFNE radio services in appendix A. 

5 Jun 03 Published version 2.09 

16 Jun 03 Updated links in appendix D. 

30 Jun 03 Updated reauthorization procedures to include only Pvconnect.net method in chapter 1 

25 Jul 03 Changed return procedures in chapter 2 adding five options and updated table of contents. 

29 Jul 03 Updated T-ASA points of contact in chapters 1 and 2 to reflect their move to the Broadcast Center 

29 Jul 03 Published version 2.10 

18 Aug 03 Removed FAX options for decoder activation and updated customer numbers in chapter 1. 

22 Aug 03 Added Iraqi cities of Baghdad, Basra, and Mosul to Appendix C. 

5 Sep 03 Updated authorization contact numbers and some formatting in Chapter 4. 

8 Sep 03 Updated figure 4-5 and some of the dish setup steps in Chapter 4 

9 Sep 03 Updated figure 3-6 LO frequencies in Chapter 3 

2 Oct 03 Changed name from AFRTS-BC to Defense Media Center Satellite Handbook. 

6 Oct 03 Broke chapter 4 in half creating a more technical chapter 4 and a step-by-step chapter 5 

7 Oct 03 Continued editing chapter 5 editing figure numbers. Removed AFIS reference from chapter 1. 

23 Oct 03 Continued editing in chapter 5 simplifying and grooming dish and decoder setupprocedures. 

18 Nov 03 Removed T-ASA references and re-labeled them as Defense Media Center. 

1 Dec 03 Removed Broadcast Center references and re-labeled them as Defense Media Center. 

1 Dec 03 Added California Amplifier LNB recommendation to DTS section of chapter 4. 

18 Dec 03 Removed all references to Odetics from chapters 7 and 8. 

4 Dec 03 Published Version 2.50 

5 Jan 04 Updated virtual channel guides in appendix A for both AFRTS and AFNE adding channel 40 and some minor service changes. 

14 Jan 04 Added transponder numbers and verified satellite data in appendix D and changed purchase cost in chapter 1. 

15 Jan 04 Removed John Jennings from service center portion of chapter 2 

20 Jan 04 Updated re-authorization procedure in chapter 1, added “Why do I need authorization” and “what to do when my decoder authorization period is up” to chapter 2. 

21 Jan 04 Removed “get form” fax option from authorization procedures in chapter 1, touched up changes from 20 Jan 04. 

26 Jan 04 Fixed Kabul’s look angles in appendix C. 

27 Jan 04 Updated links to IntelSat’s web page to reflect the change of their web site in appendix D. 

29 Jan 04 Updated polarization settings for commercial IRD’s in appendix D. 


12 Mar 04 Changed Telstar-5 to IntelSat America-5 to reflect name change in chapter 3, drawings 3-3 and 3-4, and in appendix D. 

29 Mar 04 Updated Virtual Channel guide adding channels 37, 38, and 39 in appendix A 

30 Apr 04 Added software download procedures for the 9834 to chapter 11, added graphics for it to chapter 5. 

Record of Changes


27 Mar 04 Added setup procedures for IRD model 9834 in chapter 5, edited chapter 2 to mention 9832 IRD 

22 Apr 04 Changed chapter 2 with inputs from AFRTS-HQ including new contact phone numbers, and authorization procedures. Created version 2.60 

22 Apr 04 Removed 177 country and 1.5 million service member numbers from chapter 1. 

30 Apr 04 Published version 2.60 

5 May 04 Updated the 9832 setup procedures choosing POLARISER for the LNB power in chapter 5. 

6 May 04 Updated the trouble shooting procedures changing some of the verbiage and adding the 9834 to chapter 5. 

10 May 04 Added The Pentagon Channel information to chapter 3 and appendix D 

11 May 04 Removed PCS devices and replaced with cell phone interference in chapter 4. 

27 May 04 Changed setup procedures for 9832 to reflect LO setting in chapter 5. 

21 Jun 04 Added degrees west to IntelSat 707 and NSS-7’s location. 

23 Jun 04 Added Family and AFN|movies to the virtual channel guide in appendix A 

7 Jul 04 Changed (909) telephone area code to (951) in chapters 1,2,5 and 11. 

19 Jul 04 Publish version 2.70 

26 Jul 04 Replaced IntelSat 707 with IntelSat 10-02 in appendix C and chapter 3. 

12 Aug 04 Updated repair and return procedures removing all the individual points of contact and listing the URL for them as directed in chapter 2 

12 Aug 04 Changed IntelSat 802 to IntelSat 804 in chapter 3 and appendix C and D. 

13 Aug 04 Published version 2.71 

19 Jan 05 Assumed publishing duties, updated figures 3-3, -4, and -5 to reflect the loss of IntelSat 802, addition of New Skies NSS-5 in chapter 3 and appendix D. 

20 Jan 05 Published version 3.0, updated appendix D with NSS-6 data. 

21 Jan 05 Updated look angles in appendix C removing IntelSat 802 data and adding NewSkies NSS-5 and NSS-6 look angles. Added pointing data in Asian section for The 

Philippines, Hong Kong and Indonesia. Published version 3.01 

24 Jan 05 Entered data for NSS-6 and darkened footprint lines in figure 3-5 and appendix D. Put satellites in figure 3-3 into west to east order. Updated figures 3-3 and 3-8 and 

chapter 4 with IntelSat Americas-5 satellite name. 

3 Feb 05 Changed NSS-5 receiver’s setting from H and H-Fixed to V and V-Fixed. 

8 Feb 05 Updated figure 5-16 and table 5-1 to assist changing pre-set numbers in Japan and Korea. Altered the trouble shooting section of chapter 5 adding the re-boot 

recommendation. 

9 Feb 05 Lowered EIRP on NSS-5 by 7 dB to 34 dB in appendix D. 

15 Feb 05 Removed TASA e-mail and plain language addresses from chapter 2’s direct exchange procedures. Added note on linear and circular LNB’s in appendix D. 

7 Mar 05 Corrected NSS-6 location on the second page of the Asian listings of appendix C. 

9 Sep05 Created appendix E 

26 Oct 05 Corrected look angles for Baghdad and Basra Iraq in appendix C. 

1 Nov 05 Changed channel line-up for AFNE changing Z-FM to ZFM and Z-Rock to PowerNet, adding/renaming channels 11 to 19 and adding 132 to 203 in appendix A. 


8 Nov 05 Changed channel line-up for AFNE changing channel 4’s video name to Prime Pacific (SWA) and channel 43 to Vicenza Contingency in appendix A. 

9 Nov 05 Published above change to channel names – kept same version number. 

10 Nov 05 Added network ID 1 to Pentagon Channel’s listing in appendix D 

5 Jan 06 Changed address to 23755 Z Street in chapter 2 


30 Jan 06 Removed Korea Channel and added AFN|Xtra Channel in chapter 3 and appendix A. 

6 Feb 06 Re-published version 3.03 with above minor name change. 

27 Mar 06 Added references to D9835 decoders in chapters 5 and 8. 

8 May 06 Removed references of Hotbird 4 and replaced them with Hotbirds 6 and 7 in chapters 1,3,5,6,8, and appendixes C and D. Published version 3.10 

10 May 06 Updated figure 3-3 to reflect name changes in satellites at 1 degree west and 13 degrees east in chapter 3. Added Vicenza’s role description in chapter 3. 

10 May 06 Added registered trade markings for the AFRTS logo and lettering in all chapters headers. 

21 May 06 Re-published version 3.10. 

21 Jun 06 Fixed table and figure numbering in chapters 7 and 8 and figure 7.1 to horizontal format. Updated list of figures and diagrams. 

23 Jun 06 Removed Radio NewsWheel service and virtual channel 20 from Appendix A. 

7 Jul 06 Removed references to outdated SCTE standards in chapter 6. 

10 Jul 06 Received permission from the SCTE to include links to their site and Acrobat documents. Added them to chapter 6. 

Record of Changes


12 Jul 2006 Changed channel names to match branded versions i.e. “AFN|news” vice AFN|news, removed references to AFRTS-BC in chapter 3 and appendix A. 

13 Jul 2006 Removed the cost estimates of the dish and decoder from chapter 1. 

14 Aug 2006 Added Freedom Channel to virtual channel guides in appendix A 

18 Aug 2006 Changed references from IntelSat Americas 5 to 8, updated drawings 3-3 and 3-4 in chapter 3, and pointing data in appendix C. 

28 Aug 2006 Updated AFN program guide in appendix A. 

5 Sep 2006 Added details on Hotbird 7a in appendix D. 

20 Sept 2006 Published version 3.11 

21 Sept 2006 Changed virtual channels 21 (SHAPE) and 23 (Spangdahlem) in AFNE’s channel guide in appendix A. 

29 Sept 2006 Changed the service from Z-FM to Eagle on AFNE channel guide for channels 2, 17, 19, 38, 41, 132, 152, 162, 172, and 182. Added audio 2 and 3 services to channel 

12. Added channel 22 (Program Guide). Added Freedom channel service to channel 26. Removed channel 43. Added channels 112 (Wuerzburg), 113 (Wuerzburg), 212 

(SHAPE), and 213 (SHAPE). All in appendix A. 

18 Oct 2006 Added virtual channels 192 and 193 to AFNE channel guide in appendix A. 


13 Dec 2006 Updated pricing on private party decoder purchases in chapter 1. 

12 Feb 2007 Updated AFNE virtual channel guide. Removed test tones from channel 10 audios 3 and 4, changed name on channel 11, 21, 23, 112, 113, 212, and 213. Added Freedom 

radio to channel 26 audio 2. Added virtual channels 43, 112, 142,143, 222, and 223. Removed video service from channels 25, 33, 34, 41, and 42. Removed virtual 

channel 38. All changes in appendix A. 

12 Feb 2007 Published version 3.13 

6 Mar 2007 Updated NSS-6 service for NSS-6 dual transponder illumination, changed figures 5-9 and 5-11. Changed chapter 5 and appendix D. 

12 Mar 2007 Updated Technologist phone number with the 312 pre-fix for the United States in chapter 1. 

22 Mar 2007 Changed the name of IntelSat IA-8 to Galaxy 28. Changed figures for NSS-6 dual illumination. Changes in chapters 3, 5, and appendix D. 

9 Apr 2007 Changed DTS link in Goonhilly to Madley. Changed chapter 3 and figure 3-8. 

15 May 2007 Published version 3.15 with changes to chapters 1, 3, 5, and appendix D. 

28 Aug 2007 Corrected Mali, Bamako’s entry for IntelSat 10-02 to C-band vice Ku-band in appendix C. 

4 Sep 2007 Updated virtual channel guide: removed radio services Hot AC, Z-Rock, and NPR International from channels 11, 20, 21, and 22. 

28 Jan 2008 Changed satellite frequencies for NewSkies NSS-7 and IntelSat 906, updated maps to reflect new DTS uplink sites in chapter 3 and appendix D. 

29 Jan 2008 Added second transponder for NSS-5 and NSS-6 satellites in appendix D 


29 Jan 2008 Changed DTS domestic from AMC-1 to IntelSat 707 in appendix D 

7 Feb 2008 Updated point of contact for private purchase decoders to afrtop1 in chapter 1. 

26 Mar 2008 Added 312 dialing prefix to the DSN contact numbers in chapters 1 and 2. 

26 Mar 2008 Published version 3.21 

28 Mar 2008 Corrected figure 3-8 frequency for AOR in chapter 3 and appendix D. 

11 Dec 2008 Updated AFNE channel guide in appendix A. 

26 Jan 2009 Corrected polarization for Hotbirds in appendix C and updated T-ASA’s POC number to ext. 429 


18 Feb 2009 Changed name of Hotbird 7a to 9 and updated orbital position from 13 to 9 degrees in chapter 3 

16 Mar 2009 Changed NSS-5 to NSS-9 changing frequencies and power levels in chapter 3 and appendix C and D. 

24 Mar 2009 Published version 3.23 

9 Apr 2009 Updated figure 3-7 Hotbird 9 coverage map. The pattern changed slightly. 

25 Apr 2009 Corrected frequency for Hotbird 9 from 10.775 to 10.755 GHz in illustration 3-8. 

28 Aug 2009 Added technologist number to the front page 

9 Sept 2009 Updated radio services in appendix A and chapter 3. Jack FM replaces Oldies, Gravity replaces The Touch, Classic Rock replaces Adult Rock, DriveFX replaces Bright 

AC 

9 Sept 2009 Published version V3.24 

8 Oct 2009 Changed the radio services and format of appendix A. 

8 Oct 2009 Published version V3.25 

20 Apr 2010 Added virtual channels 122 and 123 to European guide in appendix A 

5 May 2010 In Appendix A – Japan/Korea listings Classic Rock and Jack FM were flipped with each other. On Europe’s listings changed the Hessian name to Weisbaden, and 

deleted the channels for Bavaria (17,172, 173). 

5 May 2010 Published version V3.26 

Record of Changes

Notes: 


Record of Changes

AFRTS Defense Media Center Satellite Handbook

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