Instruction Manual, CVT-500 / 1000 / 1400 / 1500 & CVR ... · colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-1000/1400). b. Power & Audio connections: Unless you are handy with a soldering

Instruction Manual

Transmitters CVT-500

CVT-1000 / CVT-1400 CVT-1500

Receivers CVR-1000 CVR-1500

Contents © 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 & 2001 Coherent Communications, Inc., all rights reserved, Printed in USA

1

What? Read the manual. You must be joking!!!

OK, we know you’re in a hurry to get your neat new equipment on the air, so here’s how: see our Quick Start information on the next pages. Also PLEASE read the great installation & operation tips we’ve put in this Instruction Manual.

2

Contents

SUBJECT PAGE

1. Read the !@#$% Manual! 2

2. This table of contents 3

3. Quick Start CVT-500 Transmitter CVT-1000 & CVT-1400 Transmitters CVT-1500 Transmitter CVR-1000 Receiver CVR-1500 Receiver

4 5 6 8 9

4. CVT-500 miniature, self contained video transmitter in a lightweight plastic housing

10

5. CVT-1000 Video-Audio Transmitter with external antenna for Security & Industrial applications

11

6. CVT-1400 Video-Audio Transmitter with external antenna for Pro Video and Film applications

13

7. CVT-1500 Video-Audio Transmitter with SMPTE Linear Time Code Reader/Generator & VITC generator with user bits

15

8. CVR-1000 Video-Audio Receiver single antenna 17

9. CVR-1500 Video-Audio Diversity Receiver three antennas How Diversity reception works

19 21

10. Installation tips---Antennas & Antenna Selection Antenna Golden Rules Diversity Antenna use Tips Antenna Orientation

22 24 26 27

11. Wiring Instructions Terminal Block Mini-DIN Neutrik MiniCon

28 29 30

12. More Transmitter Power—do you need it? 31

13. Transmitter Internal Switches and Export Models Power Settings CVT-500 Powers Settings CVT-1000/ 1400 Internal Switches and Export Power Settings

32 33

14. Applications Notes 1-5 Check list & troubleshooting guide

34-39

15. Service & Calibration 40

16. Product specifications 41

17. Warranty information 43

18 FCC & Industry Canada Statements 44

3

Quick Start CVT-500 & CVT-500P Transmitter

V I D E O T R A N S M I T T E R

MODEL CVT-500

INPUT PANEL

1 2 3 4 5

1. Video input connector (BNC) 2. Pilot light/frequency locked/low battery indicator 3. On/off switch 4. Channel Selector 5. Power connector CVT-500 part of S-510 or S-515 systems for fixed installation.

a. Unpack the Transmitter, plug in the camera or other video source into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-500).

b. Plug in the battery pack or “Wall Wart” AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts DC into the DC Power connector.

Warning make sure the converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! Also, if you have wired the DC power plug, make sure the center pin is wired to the + voltage (the shell is ground).

VERY IMPORTANT:

c. Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Receiver’s. Now switch on the Transmitter, the indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

d. Turn on the Receiver as described below & check for a good picture.

e. Mount the CVT-500 so the back, the side with foil serial number sticker, is facing the wall.

For more information please refer to detailed instructions on page 10 and Installation Tips on page 22. CVT-500P part of S-510P or S-515P Systems

a. Remove Transmitter from the Pelican case. b. Stick one side of a piece of Velcro® low on the back of the CVT-500 and stick the other side on the camera so that the operator or camera will not block the transmission. c. Connect a cable from the Video Out on the camera to BNC Video In on the CVT-500. d. Plug a power cable from a battery source to the 12 VDC in on CVT-500. The transmitter is supplied with 2.5mm power connector suitable for making a power cable, soldering is required, or a custom cable may be ordered from Coherent.

Back of CVT-500 CVT-500

Velcro®

e. Rotate the Channel Selector to match the receiver’s. Switch on the Transmitter, the indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

f. Turn on the Receiver & check for a good picture. (See Receiver instructions page 8 or 9.) For more information please refer to detailed instructions on page 10 and Installation Tips on page 22.

4

Quick Start CVT-1000 & 1400 Transmitter

VIDEO-AUDIO TRANSMITTER MODEL CVT-1400

F ront CVT-1400/1500

1. MiniCon input connector 2. Channel Selector 3. Audio level 4. Video input connector (BNC)

6 7 8

Rear: CVT-1000 /1400/1500

6. Antenna Jack 7. On/Off switch 8. Pilot light/frequency locked/low battery indicator

1 2 3 4

F

ront CVT-1000

1. Mini-DIN input connector 2. Alternate barrier strip connector 3. Channel Selector 4. Audio level 5. Video input connector (BNC)

1 2 3 4 5

a. Unpack the transmitter, plug in a camera or other video source into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-1000/1400).

b. Power & Audio connections: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired cable for the CVT-1000 Mini-DIN or the CVT-1400 MiniCon.

CVT-1000 For fixed installations use the Terminal Block 1= DC Ground, 2= +12VDC, 3= Audio Ground, 4= Mic IN & 5= Line IN per silk-screen on transmitter or page 28. For portable applications wire and use the 7pin Mini-DIN connector (see page 29). CVT-1400 Wire the MiniCon connector (Page 30).

• Audio can be microphone or line level. Adjust level once a receiver is on with speaker connected, raise level until clipping is heard and then back off slightly.

• Power may be from, a battery pack, Regulated AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts DC.

Warning make sure the DC power converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! If you are wiring the Mini-DIN or MiniCon connectors, make sure the polarities are correct. The silk-screen on the transmitter shows the correct connections.

c. Screw the Transmit Antenna (the one with the threaded connector on its base) or screw the low loss antenna connector (must have a special reversed TNC connector) into the Antenna connector (on top).

d. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the receiver’s. Now turn transmitter on. Indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

e. Turn on the receiver as described below & check for a good picture.

For more information see page 11 (CVT-1000) or page 13 (CVT-1400) and Installation Tips on page 22.

5

Quick Start CVT-1500 Time Code Module

(See Diagram next page)

This section deals with the operation of the Time Code Module within the CVT-1500. Follow the Quick Start instructions on page 7 and page 10 or 11 for Transmitter and Receiver setup. The CVT-1500 is identical to the CVT-1400 except for the additional Time Code Module. Once you have a camera up and running with a receiver & monitor, you will need to set the time, date and if desired, the camera ID or other user bit information up to 8 digits long (numbers 0-9 and letters a-f). See page 9 for description of time code controls. For Video Camera use: If your camera has a built in time code generator, set the Frame Rate switch to position 0. Make certain that the Timecode signal from the camera is connected to the transmitter Timecode In (the CVT-1500 time code module functions as a reader). In the following positions, the CVT-1500 is generating Timecode. Set the Frame Rate switch to position: Please note, we recently discovered that the manufacturer of the time code generator chip we use has made an error in their chip which greatly reduces the accuracy of this generator if it is not referenced to video. Depending on frame rates, the generator will be off by a frame more or less, after only two minutes! Please take this into account.

• 4 or 5 if you are using NTSC color video • 6 if you are using black & white (RS-170) • 3 if you are using CCIR (Black & White) or PAL (color)

For Motion Picture applications: VERY IMPORTANT set SWITCH to match video camera frame rate, NOT film camera speed. Check with post-production whether drop or non-drop frame time code should be used. Set controls as Follows: a. Push the Inserter On button five times until the time display appears on the screen (see fig. 1). Using the hours & minutes buttons, set the correct time.

b. Push the Inserter On button once more and the date display will appear (see fig. 2). Using the day, month & year buttons, set the correct date.

c. The date format default is to North American standard: Month, Day & Year. To change, push the Date button for either D.M.Y. or Y.M.D.

d. To prevent accidental changes once the information is entered, push the Set button. This will lockout all the Time & Date push buttons until the power is shutoff. The clock will continue to run for about two weeks without any external power.

For more information see page 19 and Installation Tips on page 22.

6

Control diagram for CVT-1500 Time Code Reader and Generator 1. ON Turns the time/date display on and steps through: a. time display of hours, minutes, seconds & frames

4 5 6 7 8 9 11 1 2 3 10

CVT-1500

b. user information (such as Camera Number, etc.) c time display of hours, minutes & seconds (no frames) d. date e. display off

2. Size steps through 3 different size character sets, 2 colors & 3 backgrounds.

3. Location positions the display in one of six locations on screen

4-6 Time/Date Set Buttons for Hour, Minute, Second and Day, Month, Year

7. Date Set sets date in any of the three international date formats

8. Indicator light turns green once Set button is pushed. Flashes red if Frame Rate switch is changed after set button is pressed.

9. Frame Rate Switch selects proper video frame rate for black & white & NTSC or PAL.

10. Set Button once pushed, disables Time & Date buttons to prevent accidental changes.

11. Time Code / Audio switch determines if time code or audio will be transmitted over the CVT-1500's audio channel. Default is the Audio position.

7

Quick Start CVR-1000 Single Antenna Receiver

VIDEO-AUDIO RECEIVER MODEL CVR-1000

Front

1. Power On/Off switch with switch guard 2. Signal strength, low battery

and frequency lock indicators

3. Channel selector switch 4. Audio output level control

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Rear

5. Video output jack (BNC) 6. Barrier strip connector for power and audio 7. Mini-DIN input connector for power & audio 8. Antenna input jack (BNC)

a. Unpack the receiver, plug in the TV monitor, VCR or other video monitoring device into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector) marked VIDEO OUT.

b. Audio & Power: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired cable. For fixed installations use the Terminal Block 1= DC Ground, 2= +12VDC, 3= Audio Ground, 4= Audio OUT per silk-screen on the Receiver or page 34. For portable applications wire and use the 4pin Mini-DIN connector (see page 29).

• If an audio source is plugged into the transmitter, attach one end of audio cable to the CVR-1000. Connect the other end to your VCR, monitor or other audio input. The output is Mono, so if you are plugging it into a Stereo input, the sound will be on one channel only unless you have a “Y” cable (available at Radio Shack or other electronics store). Leave audio level control at factory setting unless more level in needed.

• Power may be from, a battery pack, Regulated AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts DC. Warning Make sure the DC power converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! If you are wiring the Mini-DIN, make sure the polarities are correct. The silk-screen on the receiver shows the correct connections.

c. Install Antenna and connect it to the BNC connector marked ANTENNA.

d. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the transmitter’s. Now turn the receiver on. The Signal Strength lights should all blink in turn.

After about 2 seconds, the signal strength meter will give you a reading. If it is in the green, you’re all set. If it shows yellow or red, check that the transmitter is on and that it is not too far away. For more information see page 17 and Installation Tips on page 22.

8

Quick Start CVR-1500 3 Antenna Diversity Receiver

F

ront

1. Power On/Off switch with switch guard 2. Signal strength, low battery and frequency lock indicators 3. Active Antenna Indicator lights 4. Channel selector switch 5. Audio output level control

DIVERSITY VIDEO-AUDIO RECEIVER

MODEL CVR-1500

6 7 8 9

Rear

6. Video output jack (BNC) 7. Barrier strip connector for power and audio 8. Mini-DIN input connector for power & audio 9. Three antenna input jacks (BNC)

1 2 3 4 5 a. Unpack the receiver, plug in the TV monitor, VCR or other video monitoring device into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector) marked VIDEO OUT.

b. Audio & Power: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired cable. For fixed installations use the Terminal Block 1= DC Ground, 2= +12VDC, 3= Audio Ground, 4= Audio OUT per silk-screen on the Receiver or page 34. For portable applications wire and use the 4pin Mini-DIN connector (see page 29).

• If an audio source is plugged into the transmitter, attach one end of audio cable to the CVR-1000. Connect the other end to your VCR, monitor or other audio input. The output is Mono, so if you are plugging it into a Stereo input, the sound will be on one channel only unless you have a “Y” cable (available at Radio Shack or other electronics store). Leave audio level control at factory setting unless more level in needed.


c. Install Antenna and connect it to the BNC connector marked ANTENNA.

d. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the transmitter’s. Now turn the receiver on. The Signal Strength lights should all blink in turn.

After about 2 seconds, the signal strength meter will give you a reading. If it is in the green, you’re all set. If it shows yellow or red, check that the transmitter is on and that it is not too far away. For more information see page 19 and Installation Tips on page 22.

9

CVT-500 Transmitter

V I D E O T R A N S M I T T E R

MODEL CVT-500

1. Video Input Connector (BNC) Any standard video 1

2 3 4 5

source, NTSC or PAL may be connected to this input. It is a good idea to use 75 Ohm cable such as RG-59, or RG-11 for longer runs (over 50 ft or 15m.). Also, use 75 Ohm BNC connectors, not the more common 50 Ohm variety (the 75 Ohm types have no insulating material around the center pin).

2. Pilot Light The pilot light will be a steady green under normal operation. It will flash red when the battery voltage reaches 10.5 Volts as a warning to change batteries. When power is first turned on, it performs a self-test and will blink for 2 seconds. When changing channels, it will flash green to show that the new frequency is phase locked. If the pilot light should ever blink green any other time, it indicates a fault. Turning the power off and waiting 5 seconds before turning power on should restore proper operation. 3. On/Off Switch This switch disconnects the power to the CVT-500 in the off position. 4. Channel Selector Switch Use a small screwdriver to change channels. Be sure that the transmitter & receiver on are on the same channels. Tune receiver to desired channel before turning on the transmitter to see if there is an interfering signal. If you are using multiple systems, keep them at least 3 channels apart. 5. 12 VDC Power Jack Plug 12 Volt DC power supply or 12 VDC battery pack into this jack. Do not exceed 16 Volts. Low battery indicator will come on at 10.5 Volts. Connection and Operation a. Unpack the transmitter, plug in the camera or other video source into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-500). b. Plug in the battery pack or “Wall Wart” AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts DC into the DC Power jack. Warning make sure the converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! Also, if you have wired the DC power plug, make sure the center pin is wired to the + voltage. (the shell is ground). c. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Receiver’s. Now turn it on. Indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

d. Turn on the receiver as described below & check for a good picture.

6. RF output power settings for export and government users, see page 32.

10

CVT-1000 Transmitter

1 2 3


1. Antenna Jack Plug in the external Antenna supplied with the CVT-1000 to this jack. FCC regulations require this jack to be a non-standard type so that only Antennas tested with this transmitter may be used. For export applications, special adapter cables are available.

2. On/Off Switch This switch disconnects the power to the transmitter in the off position.

3. Pilot Light The pilot light will be a steady green under normal operation. It will flash red when the battery voltage reaches 10.5 Volts as a warning to change batteries. When power is first turned on, it performs a self-test and will blink for 2 seconds. When changing channels, it will flash green to show that the new frequency is phase locked. If the pilot light should ever blink green any other time, it indicates a fault. Turning the power off and waiting 5 seconds before turning power on should restore proper operation.

4. Mini-DIN receptacle For mobile applications when the transmitter must frequently be unplugged and moved to a new location. Power and audio are wired to the mating plug which locks when mated for maximum reliability. See wiring 4 5 6 7 8 instructions for Mini-DIN connector for full description.

5. Terminal Strip Connector For fixed applications, the terminal or barrier strip offers a speedy & secure way of hooking up the various wires required, including power & audio. Pin 1= DC Ground, Pin 2= +12 VDC, Pin 3= Audio Ground, Pin 4= Mic IN, Pin 5= Line IN, Pin 6= Time Code IN per silk-screen on transmitter.

6. Channel Selector Switch Use a small screwdriver to change channels. Be sure that the transmitter & receiver on are on the same channels. Tune receiver to desired channel before turning on the transmitter to see if there is an interfering signal. If you are using multiple systems, keep them at least 3 channels apart. Best results are usually obtained with one system on Ch.1, the next on Ch. 0, and the third on Ch. 5. The maximum number of systems that can be on the air at the same time without interference depends on many factors including types of antennas used, proximity of transmitters and receivers and the environment. Usually, three systems will work together and with planning, several more.

7. Audio Level Control Adjust the Audio Level so that the loudest sounds are just slightly “compressed”. This will give you the best dynamic range. If this is not loud enough for the average sound pickup, turn the level control clockwise for more gain. An internal limiter will prevent overmodulation.

8. Video Input Connector (BNC) Any standard video source, NTSC or PAL may be connected to this input. It is a good idea to use 75 Ohm cable such as RG-59, or RG-11 for longer runs (over 50 ft or 15m.). Also, use 75 Ohm BNC connectors, not the more common 50 Ohm variety (the 75 Ohm types have no insulating material around the center pin).

11

CVT-1000 Transmitter 9. Connection and Operation a. Unpack the transmitter, plug in the camera or other video source into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-1000). b. Power & Audio connections: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired cable for the CVT-1000 Mini-DIN. Connect audio source to desired terminal or wire to connector. Use the correct cable to assure proper shielding. See connector diagram Page 30.

Source Barrier Strip Terminal (see Page 28)

Mini-DIN Conn. (see page 29)

12 VDC 2 7 DC Ground 1 1 Microphone + 4 2 Microphone - 3 1 Line Level + 5 3 Line Level - 3 1

• Audio can be microphone or line level. • Power may be from, a battery pack, Regulated AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts

DC. Warning make sure the DC power converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! If you are wiring the Mini-DIN or MiniCon connectors, make sure the polarities are correct. The silk-screen on the transmitter shows the correct connections. c. Screw the Transmit Antenna (the one with the threaded connector on its base) or screw the low loss antenna connector (must have a special reversed TNC connector) into the Antenna connector (on top). d. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Receiver’s. Now turn transmitter on. Indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

e. Turn on the receiver as described below & check for a good picture. 10. RF output power settings for export and government users: see page 33. CAUTION: Do not use the high power setting with the supplied rubber duck antenna. These antennas are rugged and convenient to use, but they are not especially good antennas. Too much signal is reflected back into the transmitter and may cause it to become unstable. The picture will be distorted and tear or roll. Turn off the transmitter immediately if this happens. Only use the high power setting when driving a good antenna. Our Patch or Yagis work fine at high power. See next section for instructions on setting the transmitter RF output power.

12

CVT-1400 Transmitter 1. Antenna Jack Plug in the external Antenna supplied with the CVT-1400 to this jack. FCC regulations require this jack to be a non-standard type so that only Antennas tested with this transmitter may be used. For export applications, special adapter cables are available.

1 2 3


2. On/Off Switch This switch disconnects the power to the transmitter in the off position. 3. Pilot Light The pilot light will be a steady green under normal operation. It will flash red when the battery voltage reaches 10.5 Volts as a warning to change batteries immediately. When power is first turned on, it performs a self-test and will blink for 2 seconds. When changing channels, it will flash green to show that the new frequency is phase locked. If the pilot light should ever blink green any other time, it indicates a fault. Turn the power off and wait 5 seconds before turning power on may restore proper operation. 4. Neutrik receptacle. This and the mating plug are precision push-pull Swiss connectors. Power, audio and timecode are

4 5 6 7 wired to the mating plug which automatically locks for maximum reliability. 5. Channel Selector Switch Use a small screwdriver to change channels. Be sure that the transmitter & receiver on are on the same channels. Tune receiver to desired channel before turning on the transmitter to see if there is an interfering signal. If you are using multiple systems, keep them at least 3 channels apart. Best results are usually obtained with one system on Ch.1, the next on Ch. 0, and the third on Ch. 5. The maximum number of systems that can be on the air at the same time without interference depends on many factors including types of antennas used, proximity of transmitters and receivers and the environment. Usually, three systems will work together and with planning, several more. 6. Audio Level Control Adjust the Audio Level so that the loudest sounds are just slightly “compressed” . This will give you the best dynamic range. If this is not loud enough for the average sound pickup, turn the level control clockwise for more gain. An internal limiter will prevent overmodulation. 7. Video Input Connector (BNC) Any standard video source, NTSC or PAL may be connected to this input. It is a good idea to use 75 Ohm cable such as RG-59, or RG-11 for longer runs (over 50 ft or 15m.). Also, use 75 Ohm BNC connectors, not the more common 50 Ohm variety (the 75 Ohm types have no insulating material around the center pin).

13

CVT-1400 Transmitter Connection and Operation

a. Unpack the transmitter, plug in the camera or other video source into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-1400). b. Power, Video, Audio, & Time Code: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired MiniCon cable. If you wish to wire your own cables, see Page 30 for wiring details.

Due to the variety of equipment types, brands and models used with our systems we can only give general information here. Most Transmitter connections will look like 1,2 or 3 below. Use whichever is appropriate. 1. Two cables one BNC to BNC for Video. The other MiniCon to Audio connector, Power connector and BNC for Time Code. CAMERA TRANSMITTER Video OUT BNC BNC Video IN Audio OUT (Line) Power 12VDC Neutrik MiniCon Time Code BNC 2. One cable carrying Video, Audio, Power & Time Code from multiple connectors to a single Neutrik MiniCon. CAMERA TRANSMITTER Audio OUT (Mic) XLR3 Neutrik MiniCon Audio OUT (Line) XLR3 12VDC XLR4 Video OUT BNC Time Code OUT BNC 3. One cable carrying Video, Audio Power with multi-pin connectors on both ends. CAMERA TRANSMITTER Multi-pin Connector Neutrik MiniCon

75Ω BNC to 75Ω BNC

• Audio can be microphone or line level. • Power may be from, a battery pack, Regulated AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts

DC. Warning make sure the DC power converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! If you are wiring the Mini-DIN or MiniCon connectors, make sure the polarities are correct. The silk-screen on the transmitter shows the correct connections.

c. Screw the Transmit Antenna (the one with the threaded connector on its base) or screw the low loss antenna connector (must have a special reversed TNC connector) into the Antenna connector (on top).

d. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Receiver’s. Now turn transmitter on. Indicator light should turn green in about 2 seconds.

e. Turn on the receiver as described below & check for a good picture.

14

CVT-1500 Time Code Module

This section details the controls and operation for the Time Code module within the CVT-1500. Follow the instructions on page 13 for Transmitter or 17 or 19 for Receiver setup. The CVT-1500 is identical to the CVT-1400 except for the additional Time Code Module.

If the camera used with this transmitter generates a separate linear Timecode, it should be wired to pin 4 of the Neutrik connecter and the Frame Rate switch set to "0" (Read).

4 5 6 7 8 9 11 1 2 3 10

CVT-1500

CVT-1500 Time Code controls:

1. ON Turns the time/date display on and steps through: a. time display of hours, minutes, seconds & frames b. user information (such as Camera No., scene & take no. etc.) c time display of hours, minutes & seconds (no frames) d. date e. display off

2. Size Steps through 3 different size character sets, 2 colors & 3 backgrounds. Cycles through the following sequence: normal size, white letters/black background (default); black letters/white background; white letters/ no background, black letters/no background. Large size, white letters/ black background (default); black letters/ white background; white letters/ no background, black letters/no background.

3. Place Button positions the display in one of six locations on screen. Center (default), top left, top middle, top right, bottom left.

4. Hours/Year Button Sets Hours when time is displayed, sets year when date is displayed.

5. Minutes/Month Button Sets Minutes when time is displayed, sets month when date is displayed.

6. Seconds/Days Button Sets seconds when time is displayed,

7. Date Set sets date in any of the three international date formats. Sets date format to MDY (default), DMY or YMD by pushing button when in date mode.

8. LED Indicator The LED will normally glow red until the set button is pushed. It will then turn green. If the Frame Rate switch is moved after the set button is pushed, the LED will flash red/green until it is put back to its original position

9. Frame Rate Switch selects proper video frame rate for black & white & NTSC or PAL. Different video standards exist not only from country to country, but within certain industries, hence the need for all these rates. See paragraph a. under Operations for the correct setting.

10. Set Button once the time, date and other information is entered, pushing the set button will lock out further button pushes to protect settings. Power has to be turned off to defeat this protect feature

11. Time Code / Audio switch determines if time code or audio will be transmitted over the CVT-1500’s audio channel. Under normal circumstances, leave this switch in the audio (default) position. In unusual situation where the time code signal is to be transmitted (switch in the TC position) and feed audio out from the receiver to a remote time code reader.

Time Code Operation Once you have a camera up and running with a receiver & monitor (see CVT-1400 instructions, above), you will need to set the time, date and if desired, the camera ID or other user bit information up to 8 digits long (numbers 0-9 and letters a-f).

Video Camera Applications: If your camera has a built in time code generator and you wish to use it as your source of time code (usually the best solution), set the Frame Rate switch to position 0, Timecode read. Make certain that the time code signal from the camera is connected to the transmitter with the correct cable.

15

CVT-1500 Time Code Module Continued

Time Code In (the 1500 Time Code Module functions as a reader/Inserter & displays the time code, if desired, in this mode).

For Motion Picture applications: VERY IMPORTANT set frame rate SWITCH to match video camera frame rate, NOT film camera speed. Check with post-production whether drop or non-drop frame time code should be used.

Please note, we recently discovered that the manufacturer of the time code generator chip we use has made an error in their chip, which greatly reduces the accuracy of this generator if it is not referenced to video. Depending on frame rates, the generator will be off by a frame more or less, after only two minutes! Please take this into account.

In the following positions, the CVT-1500 is generating time code. Time code is generated based on the time of day or other number you set, and added to the picture (if desired).

a. Set the Frame Rate switch: • To position 4 or 5 if you are using NTSC color video • To position 6 if you are using black & white (RS-170) • To position 3 if you are using CCIR (Black & White) or PAL (color)

b. Push the Inserter On button five times until the time display appears on the screen. Using the Hours & Minutes buttons set the correct time. c. Push the Inserter On button one more time and the date display will appear. Using the Day, Month & Year buttons, set the correct date. d. The date format default is to North American standard: Month, Day & Year. To change, push the Date button for either D.M.Y or Y.M.D. e. To prevent accidental changes once the information is entered, push the Set button. This will lockout all the push buttons until the power is shutoff. The clock will continue to run for about two weeks without any external power. NOTE: The time and date information is not actually loaded into the clock display until the transmitter is turned off for about 5 or more seconds, and turned back on.

Special Features

1. The linear SMPTE /EBU time code that is either read in, or generated, is automatically converted to a VITC (Vertical Interval Time Code), and inserted into the hidden portion of the picture. In this way, you may decide not to display the time code in the picture, yet have the information transmitted along with the picture and recorded on a VCR for editing or other purposes. By connecting a standard VITC reader, you can then recover the time code information, and still have an uncluttered picture.

2. In the lower left-hand corner of the Time Code panel, is a switch mysteriously marked “TC” in one position, and “Audio”, in the other (No. 11 on diagram). It should normally be left in the “Audio” position. For certain types of movie and video productions, such as Music Videos, or music playback on a set, it is handy to have a Time Code Slate when multiple cameras and/or audio recorders are in use. Any camera can then first shoot a few frames of the slate as a marker.

If this switch is moved to the “TC” position with a small screwdriver, the linear timecode that is being generated by the camera or by the CVT-1500, will be transmitted on the audio channel instead of any audio.. NOTE: The time & date information is NOT synchronized to the video when in the generate positions and we do NOT recommend using this feature if an accurate reading is required.

3. Once the Set button is depressed, all the normal time/date set buttons are disabled as a safety precaution. After the power to the transmitter is turned off, the set buttons are again energized. If the Frame Rate switch is moved after the Set button has been pushed, the LED will blink bed and green to let you know that the frame rate switch has been moved. The blinking will stop once it is returned to either its prior setting, or the Timecode read position.

16

CVR-1000 Receiver 1. On/Off Switch This switch disconnects the power to the Receiver when in the off position.

1 2 3 4

2. Signal Strength Light Bar A red LED indicates a noisy or poor quality picture. A yellow LED means an acceptable, although slightly noisy picture. Any of the green LEDs shows that the picture quality is fine, but with a greater or lesser margin of safety.

The display also performs these additional functions. When power

VIDEO-AUDIO RECEIVER

MODEL CVR-1000

is first turned on, the receiver performs a self-test and each light will blink in turn. The red LED will flash when the power supply voltage reaches 10.5 Volts as a warning to change batteries. When changing channels, an LED will blink to show that the new frequency is phase locked. If any LED but the red should ever blink, it indicates a fault. Turning the power off and waiting 5 seconds before turning power on may restore proper operation.

3. Channel Selector Switch Use a small screwdriver to change channels. Be sure that the transmitter & receiver on are on the same channels. Tune receiver to desired channel before turning on the Transmitter to see if there is an interfering signal. If you are using multiple systems, keep them at least 3 channels apart.

4. Audio Level Control The receiver’s level control is designed to “Trim” the level to match the equipment with which it will be used. Please set the basic Audio Level using the transmitter’s level control first. Then fine tune with the receiver for equipment matching. When setting the transmitter Audio Level, be sure to keep this level control low so it doesn’t overload.

5. Antenna Jack Connect the Antenna you intend to use to this jack. For short runs (under 10 ft or 3m.), RG-58 coax is OK. We highly recommend using low loss cable such as RG-8 for longer runs, or even better, to place the receiver very close to the Antenna and run a longer video cable.

5 6 7 8

6. Mini-DIN Power/Audio Jack For portable applications, we recommend using this jack and connecting the power and audio to the mating plug. The self-locking design makes this a reliable connector setup, and it is quick to disconnect.

7. Terminal Strip Connector For fixed applications, the terminal or barrier strip offers a speedy & secure way of hooking up the various wires required, including Power & Audio. 8. Video Output Connector (BNC) Any standard video device, NTSC or PAL may be connected to this input. Monitors, VCRs, Video printers & video projectors are some of the more common devices attached to the CVR-1000. It is a good idea to use 75 Ohm cable such as RG-59, or RG-11 for longer runs (over 50 ft or 15m.). Also, use 75 Ohm BNC connectors, not the more common 50-Ohm variety (the 75 Ohm types have no insulating material around the center pin). Be sure to use a 75 Ohm termination on last device in the chain. This will minimize ghosts & other picture artifacts.

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CVR-1000 Receiver Single Antenna Receiver Connection and Operation a. Unpack the receiver, plug in the TV monitor, VCR or other video monitoring device into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector) marked VIDEO OUT. c. Audio & Power: Unless you are handy with a soldering iron, we recommend that you purchase a pre-wired cable. For fixed installations use the Terminal Block 1= DC Ground, 2= +12VDC, 3= Audio Ground, 4= Audio OUT per silk-screen on the Receiver or page 34. For portable applications wire and use the 4pin Mini-DIN connector (see page 29).

Connection Barrier Strip Terminal (see Page28)

Mini-DIN Conn. (see page 29)

DC Ground 1 1 +12 VDC 2 2 Audio Ground 3 3 Audio OUT 4 4

• If an audio source is plugged into the transmitter, attach one end of audio cable to the CVR-1000. Connect the other end to your VCR, monitor or other audio input. The output is Mono, so if you are plugging it into a Stereo input, the sound will be on one channel only unless you have a “Y” cable (available at Radio Shack or other electronics store).


d. Install Antenna and connect it to the BNC connector marked ANTENNA.

e. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Transmitter’s.. Now turn the receiver on. The Signal Strength lights should all blink in turn.

After about 2 seconds, the signal strength meter will give you a reading. If it is in the green, you’re all set. If it shows yellow or red, check that the transmitter is on and that it is not too far away.

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CVR-1500 Receiver

6 7 8 9

1. On/Off Switch This switch disconnects the power to the receiver when in the off position.

2. Signal Strength Light Bar A red LED indicates a noisy or poor quality picture. A yellow LED means an acceptable, although slightly noisy picture. Any of the green LEDs shows that the picture quality is fine, but with a greater or lesser margin of safety. The display also performs these additional functions:

DIVERSITY VIDEO-AUDIO RECEIVER

MODEL CVR-1500

When power is first turned on, the receiver performs a self-test and each light will blink in turn. The red LED will flash when the power supply voltage reaches 10.5 Volts as a warning to change batteries. When changing channels, an LED will blink to show that the new frequency is phase locked. If any LED but the red should ever blink, it indicates a fault. Turning the power off and waiting 5 seconds before turning power on may restore proper operation.

3. Antenna 1, 2 & 3 Indicators The LED that is on corresponds to the working Antenna.

4. Channel Selector Switch Use a small screwdriver to change channels. Be sure that the transmitter & receiver on are on the same channels. Tune receiver to desired channel before turning on the transmitter to see if there is an interfering signal. If you are using multiple systems, keep them at least 3 channels apart.

1 2 3 4 5 5. Audio Level Control The receiver’s level control is designed to “Trim” the level to match the equipment with which it will be used. Please set the basic Audio Level using the transmitter’s level control first. Then fine tune with the receiver for equipment matching. When setting the transmitter Audio Level, be sure to keep this level control low so it doesn’t overload.

6. Antenna Jacks 1-3 Connect the three Antennas you intend to use to this jack. If you use less than 3, put a 50 Ohm termination plug on the unused input. For short runs (under 10 ft or 3m.), RG-58 coax is OK. We highly recommend using low loss cable such as RG-8 for longer runs, or even better, to place the receiver very close to the Antenna and run a longer video cable.

7. Mini-DIN Power/Audio Jack For portable applications, we recommend using this jack and connecting the power and audio to the mating plug. The self-locking design makes this a reliable connector setup, and it is quick to disconnect.

8. Terminal Strip Connector For fixed applications, the terminal or barrier strip offers a speedy & secure way of hooking up the various wires required, including Power & Audio

9. Video Output Connector (BNC) Any standard video device, NTSC or PAL may be connected to this input. Monitors, VCRs, Video printers & Video projectors are some of the more common devices attached to the CVR-1500. It is a good idea to use 75 Ohm cable such as RG-59, or RG-11 for longer runs (over 50 ft or 15m.). Also, use 75 Ohm BNC connectors, not the more common 50 Ohm variety (the 75 Ohm types have no insulating material around the center pin). Be sure to use a 75 Ohm termination on last device in the chain. This will minimize ghosts & other picture artifacts.

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CVR-1500 Receiver Connection and Operation a. Unpack the receiver, check the small label on the bottom. It will read “NTSC” or “PAL”. Verify that it is the correct standard for your application. If it is not correct, see “f.” below.

Plug in the TV monitor; VCR or other video monitoring device into the BNC (circular chrome colored connector on the end of the CVR-1500) marked VIDEO OUT.

b. Plug in the battery pack or “Wall Wart” AC to DC converter, or other source of 12 Volts DC into the DC Power jack.

Warning make sure the converter is the correct one for the line voltage you are using! Also, if you have wired the DC power plug, make sure ground is to pin 1 & +12V is to pin 2.

c. If an audio source is plugged into the transmitter, attach the correct audio output connector to the receiver and connect the other end to your VCR or other audio input. The output is Mono, so if you are plugging it into a Stereo input, the sound will be on one channel only unless you have a “Y” cable.

d. Install Antennas, and connect one to the BNC connector marked ANTENNA 1, the next to ANTENNA 2, and the last to ANTENNA 3.

e. VERY IMPORTANT: Rotate the Channel Selector to match the Transmitter’s.. Now turn the receiver on. The Signal Strength lights should all blink in turn.

After about 2 seconds, the signal strength meter will give you a reading. If it is in the green, you’re all set. If it shows yellow or red, check that the transmitter is on and that it is not too far away. One of the three green LEDs will be on, corresponding to the Antenna receiving the best signal.

For best reception, the three Antennas should be separated from each other by at least 3 feet. Try varying the heights, positions and angles of the Antennas if you are not getting enough range. A special Diversity Antenna array is available from Coherent that has all three Antennas conveniently on one stand. f. To change the Receiver from NTSC to PAL or vice-versa, follow these steps:

1. Disassembly: Remove 2 screws at Connector end. Remove “O” rings. Carefully remove the end panel.

S2

PAL NTSC VIDEO MODE

Slide off top cover. 2. Locate Switch S2, positioned near U16, the large

integrated circuit with a label on it . 3. Switch to desired position.

4. Assembly: Slide the Cover back in position. Re-fit end panel in place. Screw in 2, 4-40 screws removed in step 1. Replace “O” rings.

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How TrueD™ Diversity works:

Imagine dropping a pebble into a still pond. If the pebble is far enough away from the shore, the ripples continue away from the point of impact undisturbed. But what happens if we drop the same pebble near the shore? On the side facing away from the shore, the wavelets will be as before, undisturbed. If we look at the side facing the shore, what do we see? If the shore is rocky, we may see that the waves are reflected back from the rocks into the incoming waves. If we look closely, we will see that the reflected waves combine with these incoming waves. Depending on their position relative to each other, they may combine and add to make a larger wave, or if the top of one wave and the bottom of another meet, they will even out leaving no sign of a wave at all. This is what happens to radio waves as well. We have few reception problems when the Transmitter and Receiver are situated over flat land or water and the radio waves are undisturbed. But in an urban environment, the radio waves are reflected from buildings, cars, light posts and metal objects in general, and may be absorbed by trees, shrubs and people. Inside a building, high frequency radio waves will be reflected by filing cabinets, metal studs in walls, lighting fixtures, metal desks, etc. This is why when we try to use a cellular phone inside a building we may experience good reception only a foot or two from a problem area as the waves may combine and cancel in one area and add in another. Now if we get tricky, we can place three antennas, several radio wavelengths apart, and look at the signal coming from each one. Statistical studies show that almost 100% of the time, one of the three signals will be good as long as they are within range. But we can't just combine the three signals and hope for the best, because they will have a random relationship with each other and we will have waves adding and canceling, just as when the wake from two passing boats cross. This is called antenna diversity, and it just doesn't work reliably. Instead, our Coherent CVR-1500 looks at the output of all three antennas and very quickly samples the signal strength of each one and looks at the quality of the Video as well. Our internal microcomputer decides which antenna has the best signal, and switches to it, giving you the best possible picture and sound. This happens so quickly that you will not even be aware of a possible problem before it is corrected. Three green lights on the front panel show which antenna has been selected.

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Installation Tips

Setting up multiple systems:

1. Setup your systems after reviewing the antenna information below, then please proceed as follows:

A. Turn on all video receivers without any transmitters being on. Check each one. The picture should look like random noise, or "snow". The signal strength bar graph should have the red LED on. If interference causes the LED to move to the yellow or green LEDs, you may have trouble and the channel may need to be changed. The monitor will probably show lines or flashes of some sort if interference is present.

B. Turn on each video transmitter, one at a time. Once you have verified that the transmitter has a good picture on its matching receiver, turn it off and check the next one. Ignore pictures that show up on the non-matching receivers, this is normal.

C. When all transmitters have been checked, turn on each system in turn and check for interference between them. If interference is present, try changing channels. The farther away one system is from another, the less likely interference will be.

D. If no other channels are available, we can provide you with narrowband cavity filters that will help. Take the cavity filter tuned for that frequency and a short BNC cable and insert it in between the receiver's antenna jack and the antenna cable. This should resolve any interference issues.

E. Next, turn on the next system and check for interference between it and any others. F. Repeat this step with any remaining systems. Add additional cavity filters if required.

2. Verify that all cameras are working properly.

Warning: Danger of Electrocution When installing external Antennas be sure: ♦ That they cannot come into contact with power lines during installation or after they are

installed ♦ That they are not being installed near high voltage lines that may induce dangerous voltages or

currents. ♦ That they are equipped with suitable lightening protection & grounding straps ♦ That they are rigidly mounted to a strong pole or surface, and wind & ice loads have been

calculated Antennas

Antennas fall into two basic categories, omnidirectional and directional. The signal from an omnidirectional antenna can be visualized as a sphere or ball of radio frequency energy radiating outward evenly in all directions from the antenna into space.

A directional antenna is constructed to radiate this energy in one direction or plane. Imagine that the ball mentioned above, is “squished”, so that the signal is radiated mainly in the desired direction. This is how a directional antenna can have gain compared to an omnidirectional type. Remember however, that a directional antenna gives up much of its ability to transmit or a receive a signal except in its active direction. Or stated another way, directional gain is accomplished by reducing the antenna’s gain in all directions except the desired one.

Without getting too technical, antennas are further categorized by the type of polarization used: linear or circular. Linear types are usually divided into vertical & horizontal polarization. Imagine that the radio signal is like an ocean wave in space. In the case of a vertically polarized antenna, the waves go up and down vertically. If you could turn the waves at right angles, so they went back and forth, this would

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be horizontal polarization. If the waves leave the antenna in a corkscrew pattern, then this is called circular polarization.

When viewed from the antenna feed point end, if the wave is clockwise, then it is called right hand circular polarization. If counter-clockwise, then it is called left hand CP. This is very useful when a limited number of channels is available, because a RHCP antenna doesn’t “see” the signal from a LHCP type, and vice-versa. The cancellation is never perfect, but often is good enough to reuse the same frequency. CP antennas also have less sensitivity to signal dropouts caused by multipath signal cancellations.

Antenna gain is measured in dB (decibels), and is often referenced to a perfectly omnidirectional antenna whose gain is 0 dBi. A simple dipole antenna is slightly directional in the vertical plane (called elevation), and omnidirectional in the horizontal plane (called azimuth), and has a gain of about 2 dBi. Just to make life more complicated, many manufacturers consider a dipole their reference antenna and would tell you that a dipole has a gain of 0 dBd. In many ways, this is a more realistic measurement, and the one we use.

Antenna Types a. Dipole antennas. 1. Flex (“Rubber Duck”) antennas. These are rugged, flexible & inexpensive. Very common on walkie-talkies. Manufacturers rate them at 2 to 4 dBi gain. In fact, they are sensitive to placement, availability of a good ground plane (quarter-wave types), and frequently do not live up to manufacturers gain claims. Their radiation patterns are more or less omnidirectional horizontally, depending on mounting position. Useful for short distances only. 2. “J” Pole antennas. The “J” antenna is a good compromise dipole. It has about 2 dBi of gain, is omnidirectional horizontally, and is compact. Good for short to medium distances. 3. The “Eggbeater” Antenna looks just like its namesake and produces a smooth omnidirectional pattern, horizontally polarized at ground level. At higher elevations, the pattern transforms into Right Hand Circular polarized. This antenna is somewhat larger than a Rubber Duck or J pole, about 7 in long by 4.5 in wide (17.8 x 11.4 cm), but an excellent choice where overhead pickup is required, or where horizontal polarization is preferred. The gain is approximately 2 dBi.

b. Yagi antennas. These look similar to your television antenna, although the rods are usually pointed up and down (vertically polarized), for best operation. The more rods (called elements), the more gain and the better the antenna will reject unwanted signals coming in from the side and rear. Available in gains from 6 to about 15 dB, these are reasonably priced, general purpose antennas. They are generally used outside, mounted on a mast and can be stacked for additional gain and directivity. If used over water, they should be horizontally polarized, especially if one or both ends are less than 6 ft. (1.8m) above the surface. The radio waves are reflected off the water’s surface and “free gain” of up to 6 dB may be had this way.

A good circularly polarized antenna may be made using two identical Yagi antennas and proper phasing cables and a combiner.

Yagi antennas are a good choice for most applications. Unfortunately, there are many inflated claims concerning actual versus theoretical gain, directional patterns, front to back ratios, etc. Coherent has tried to winnow through a number of manufacturers and offer our customers only well performing antennas.

c. Corner Reflector antenna. They are somewhat large, even at 900 MHz, are usually moderately priced, have high gains (6-15 dB), excellent rejection of unwanted signals from the sides and rear, fairly directional, outdoor antennas. Corner Reflectors are also usually vertically polarized. They are an excellent alternative to a Yagi if you don’t have to worry about high wind or snow loads. Corner reflectors also offer much wider bandwidths than a Yagi.

d. Patch antennas are compact, usually flat, mounted in a plastic enclosure and range in size from a paperback novel to a large hardback book. They may be omnidirectional or moderately directional with gains to about 9 dB. Patch and their larger, more directional relative, the Panel antenna, may be linear or circularly polarized. Patch antennas are very handy to mount on a regular ceiling or clip to a T-bar drop ceiling. They are easy to mount on office walls, to conceal inside a non-metallic object such as a plastic store display, exit sign, sports bag, etc.

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e. Panel antennas are larger, more directional versions of patch antennas. They are designed for permanent mounting on a mast or even against a building wall, where they may be painted to match the building’s color. Panel antennas range in gains from about 9 to 18 dB. A typical 12 dB gain antenna is 18 x 18 x 0.85 in. (71 x 71 x 22 mm).

f. Helical antennas range from fairly directional, with gains of 6-8 dB, to very directional with gains of 10-17 dB. Their rejection of signals from the rear (front to back ratio), is very good at around 15 dB. They work very well for fixed applications such as rooftop to rooftop. A typical high gain (17 dB) unit is 24” long, with a 4.5” helix and a 13” diameter base plate and weighs 20 lbs. Because they are circularly polarized, they may work better than an equivalent gain Yagi or corner reflector in an urban area. Helix type antennas are usually considerably more expensive than a Yagi because of its increased complexity.

g. Parabolic dishes at this frequency are quite large for their gain, about 6 ft in diameter for 20 dB of gain and a front to back ration of 20 dB. We would normally recommend using a helical, a Yagi, or stacked array instead.

There are many more antenna types and variations, but we feel that this summary covers the ones most likely to be used with our equipment. It is a complicated subject, so please feel free to call us for advice.

Antenna Golden Rules A. Fixed Installations (Point to Point) 1. Make sure that the path from the transmitter to the receiver is unobstructed by buildings, hills or other large objects. 2. Go for the highest Antenna elevation practical; it will give you the best range. 3. Whichever antenna you select from the list below, PLEASE remember that at these frequencies and even more so at higher ones, a foot or two left or right, or up or down may make all the difference in the world in the signal quality you receive, so experiment before you make any permanent site selections. Also, just because one antenna is polarized in one direction (see p 22 for explanation), doesn’t mean that your best signal will also be polarized the same way, especially in urban areas where radio waves bounce off buildings like cue balls. So try pointing your directional antenna in different directions than it “should” be coming from, including at the ground. Sometimes you will be amazed with the results. 4. Use the right antenna cable and keep it as short as possible to minimize signal loss. See p. 36 for correct cable and lengths. 5. Use the right Antenna for the job. If the distance is short (less than 100 feet), and the receiver is in line of sight, Rubber Duck type antennas will do fine. Otherwise, please review the antenna types listed below and select the one that will work for your application. Remember, antennas are just like everything else: you don’t get something for nothing. Consider your application requirements in the following terms: a. Is your application fixed, point to point (building to building for instance), outdoors where a directional, high gain antenna will be the best solution? Remember, If you need high gain, the trade-off will be a more directional antenna which may be more difficult to position properly. Depending on distance and antenna location, we normally recommend a Yagi Antenna. We offer four types from 6-to 15 dB gain. b. Is your application fixed, interior to interior (from one side of a warehouse or store to another side for example), where you may have shelving, walls, metal furniture, etc. blocking your signal? Try ceiling or roof mounted patch or panel antennas. If there are no obstructions, you may want to try a Yagi or other directional antenna. c. Is your application from the interior of a warehouse or store, where the receiver may be permanently located in a Security office, and the transmitter moved about to monitor shoplifting or pilferage? Consider using a ceiling or roof mounted patch or panel antenna for the receiver, and a second patch or panel for the transmitter. If minimum size is important, and distance not too great, a rubber helical antenna may be easiest to conceal. Consider concealing a small Yagi above a drop ceiling to get better range. d. Is your application from the interior of one building to the interior of another building? If you can locate the antennas outside the building, try a directional antenna (see a). If you need to conceal one or both antennas, try a directional patch or panel antenna. Try and locate the antennas on, or near a window,

24

wood, or other non-conductive surface. Do not mount the antenna where it will be blocked by a steel or other metallic, or metal reinforced surface or wall. B. Mobile Installations 1. Make sure that the path from the transmitter to the receiver is unobstructed by buildings, hills or other large objects.

2. Go for the highest Antenna elevation practical; it will give you the best range.

3. Whichever antenna you select from the list below, PLEASE remember that at these frequencies and even more so at higher ones, a foot or two left or right, or up or down may make all the difference in the world in the signal quality you receive, so experiment before you make any permanent site selections. Also, just because one antenna is polarized in one direction, doesn’t mean that your best signal will also be polarized the same way, especially in urban areas where radio waves bounce off buildings like cue balls. So try pointing your directional antenna in different directions than it “should” be coming from, including at the ground. Sometimes you will be amazed with the results.

4. Most mobile applications will require a Diversity Receiver for best results. Our CVR-1500 is a Triple Diversity type ideally suited to these applications. See p 21 for an explanation of Diversity. Use the right Antenna and the right Receiver for the job. Mobile applications are almost always more complicated then fixed installations because of the challenge of dealing with signal reflections that cause picture dropouts as the Transmitter or Receiver is moving. Please review the antenna types listed below and select the one that will work for your application. Also, consider how “perfect” your picture has to be, and for what percentage of the time. If you can tolerate a certain number of dropouts, than generally, a simpler installation will work fine. 1. Do you have a Broadcast & Motion Picture application? These usually require an omnidirectional antenna on the transmitter and a directional receiving antenna. For the Transmitter, we normally recommend using the helical, flex type (rubber duck) supplied (except for the CVT-500 which has a built in patch antenna), an Eggbeater antenna or an omnidirectional patch type. A circularly polarized Omni will work well if there is room for this type. Remember, if you have to locate the receiving antennas over the transmitter, as on a catwalk above a stage, most dipole antennas such as the Rubber Duck we supply, have a dead spot and will not work well on the Transmitter. We recommend using either an Omnidirectional Patch , or an Eggbeater type antenna. For the receiving end, we recommend our AY-6 Yagi antennas (10 dB gain) for most applications. 2. Does your application require concealing the Transmitter or Receiver in an attaché case or something similar? Depending on the range required, try a high gain antenna such as a panel type at the fixed end, or a Yagi if concealment isn’t an issue. The antenna used in the attaché case should be an omnidirectional type. An omni patch usually works well. Be certain that the active side of the antenna faces away from any metal. A helical type (Rubber duck) may be ok, but will be detuned by its proximity to surrounding objects. 3. Do you have a mobile application, where either the Transmitter or Receiver is in a vehicle of some sort? Usually, a magnet mounted, 5/8 over a ½ wave collinear dipole is a good solution if the antenna can be attached to the roof of a car. These antennas look like a rod with a slight bulge about 1/3 of the way up, are omnidirectional and have about 5 dB of gain. A typical length is 18 in.(46 cm). Many variations are available including types disguised as an ordinary car radio antenna. If the vehicle’s roof is not metal, then an antenna that works without a ground plane is necessary. Several manufacturers make what is called an “Elevated Feed Point Mobile Antenna”. They usually have a gain of 3 dB and are about 23 in (58 cm) long.

25

We do not recommend omnidirectional antennas with more than 5 dB gain for mobile use as the pattern becomes very compressed vertically. It resembles a pancake, so that if the vehicle is on a hill, the receiver will

not “see” the tilted pattern as it will be aimed skyward on one end and into the earth at the other. At the sides, the polarization angle will be somewhere between horizontal and vertical. If total concealment is required, an omnidirectional patch antenna may be hidden under the car or in the headliner. The range will not be as good as the collinear designs mentioned above. The transmitter or receiver mounted at the other end should have a high gain antenna if possible. If this is another vehicle, use a yagi. If this vehicle moves too much for a directional antenna, use one of the collinear antennas mentioned above.

Diversity Antenna Tips 1. Use all three Antennas if at all possible. The CVR-1500 Receiver will not perform as well if only two antennas are used, and will not function as a Diversity Receiver if only one antenna is plugged in. If less than three antennas are used, terminate the unused input with a 50 Ohm termination. 2. The more “diverse” the signals received by each antenna, the better, so spread the antennas at least 13 in. (33 cm) from one another. They can be at different heights as well. In some circumstances, having different polarization angles may help too. Experiment! 3. If you are using 3 directional antennas such as our AY-7, 10 dB gain Yagis, They can be aimed at different spots for best coverage. For example, if a car enters from your left, drives in front of you and leaves on the right, you could aim one antenna toward the left, one at the center, and one toward the right. If the antennas are pointed in very different directions, then the diversity action may suffer. 4. Keep the Receiving (and Transmitting antenna if possible), above people and obstructions. 5. Keep the Antennas away from metal objects such as walls with metal studs, lighting stands, reflectors, filing cabinets, machinery, etc.

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Antenna Orientation

Position Transmitter and Receiver so antennas are parallel to each other and pointing up (usually best), or parallel to the ground. When using Yagi antenna(s) on Receiver CVR-1000 or CVR-1500 orient the antenna elements horizontally for the CVT-500 and vertically for the CVT-1000, CVT1400 or CVT-1500. If reception isn’t as good as you would like, try experimenting with different antenna positions and types Correct basic antenna orientation: OR:

Transmitter

Receiver Transmitter Receiver Yagi receiving antenna orientation: Video in CVT-500 CVR-1000/1500 Receiver CVT-1000 CVR-1000/1500 Receiver CVT-1400 or CVT-1500

Incorrect Transmitter Transmitter locations Receiver on film or video cameras. CVT-1400 or CVT-1500 CVT-500

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Wiring Instructions

Terminal Block CVT-1000 & CVR-1000/1500 Intended use: This terminal block is provided for fixed installation. It provides an easy way to connect Power, Audio IN or OUT and Time Code IN to our units. The block is “pluggable” but because it provides very poor strain relief for the wires connected to it, we do not recommend using this terminal block as a connector where it is plugged and unplugged regularly. The seven and four pin Mini-DIN connectors on the transmitters and receivers are provided for portable applications. Connections: 6 Terminal Block (CVT-1000) 4 Terminal Block (CVR-1000 & CVR-1500)

4 3 2 1

6 5 4 3 2 1 1= DC Ground 2= +12VDC 3= Audio Ground 1= DC Ground 2= +12VDC 4= Mic IN 5= Line IN 6=Time Code IN 3= Audio Ground 4= Audio OUT Operation:

Wire Wire Jaw

Screw When a wire is placed in one of the openings and the corresponding screw is tightened (clockwise) a metal jaw rises and compresses the wire holding it in place.

Screw fully counterclockwis

e OPEN

Caution: Confirm that the wire jaw is down by rotating screw counterclockwise before inserting wire.

Screw fully clockwise CLOSED

1. Strip about 1/8 inch of insulation from each wire. Twist wire strands tightly together and insert in correct receptacle. Press wire into opening while tightening the appropriate screw with a small screwdriver.

2. Pull gently on wire to confirm proper connection 3. Make certain that no wire strands have been left hanging out of any of the openings.

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Mini-DIN Connector Assembly: KYCON KMDLA-4P & KMDLA-7P Cover & lock Slot on top

Strain Inner Spring Lock Contact Connector Outer Shell Relief Shell Release Block Body

1. Compress the Strain Relief and press it into Inner Shell so that the two teeth fit into the grooves in the back of

the Inner Shell. Thread the cable through the Strain Relief/Inner Shell assembly and then through the Spring and Lock Release. Strip about ½ inch of insulation off the cable. If the cable is shielded carefully separate the braid next to the insulator and move the wires through the hole in the braid. Strip about 1/16 of an inch from the end of each wire and tin them.

2. Solder wires to Contact Block pins. See Pin-Out Below. CAUTION: Do not overheat pins or plastic block may

melt and deform. 3. Insert Contact Block, with slot up, into Connector Body and slide forward with small screwdriver until Contact

Block clicks into place. 4. Fold metal tabs over wire as a strain relief. If the cable

is shielded bring the shield back under the tab before folding.

5. Slide the Lock Release ring forward until the tang fits

in the groove on top of the Connector Body. Place the Cover & Lock on the Connector Body

½ “

Rear view of 7 pin Contact Block

6 Time Code Out 5 Video In 3 Line In 1 DC Ground

Time Code In 4 Mic In 2

+12 VDC 7 3 Audio Ground 1 DC Ground +12 VDC 2

Audio Out 4

Rear view of 4 pin Contact Block

Screwdriver Press Slot on top Tip: If the Contact Block does not lock correctly,

gently spread the Connector Body with a screwdriver and slide the Contact Block out and try again.

Tab

Flat top

6. Slide Spring and Inner Shell over Connector

Body while sliding the Outer Shell over the entire assembly until the Outer Shell clicks into place with the Inner Shell.

7. Final Test: The Outer Shell should be pressed forward

by the spring and move easily back and forth over Connector Body and Inner Shell.

LOCKING OPERATION: When plugged in, the pawl on the connector locks into a recess on the socket. Pulling on the Outer Shell moves the Lock Release and allows the locking pawl to move down releasing the connector.

pawl

29

CVT-1400 Neutrik MiniCon Connector Assembly End Cap Collet Contacts Insert Body Small Key

Rear View of Pin

Time Code In Pin 4 Video In Pin 5

DC Ground Pin 1 Mic In Pin 2 Line In Pin 3

Pin 7 +12VDC Pin 6 Time Code Out

Large Key 1. Select the correct type of cable or cables for your application. A single shielded cable with six 28-gauge wires

works well if power, audio and time code wires are coming from the same place on the camera. If power, audio and time code are from different locations three small cables (two conductor 26 gauge wires for power and shielded 26 gauge wire for audio & time code) will work best. We recommend Teflon insulator on the wire. The jacket can be any flexible insulator.

2. Thread the cable or cables through the End Cap and the Collet an shown. Strip about ½ inch of insulation off the cable. If the cable is shielded carefully separate the braid next to the insulator and move the wires through the hole in the braid. Strip about 1/16 inch from the end of each wire and tin them. Use a 1½ to 2 inch long piece of shrink tubing over the jacket(s) to provide cable bend relief and protect cable from the Collet cutting into it.

Shrink Tubing

½ “ 3. Solder wires to Contacts as required. Hold pin in vice or “Helping Hands” alligator clip. Use a small tip on you

iron and avoid getting excess solder on pin. Solder shields together (if using multiple cables), and at the same time, solder a short length of insulated wire to connect the shields to pin 1.

4. Line up the Insert with the diagram above. Contacts go into the side with the larger holes (marked with white

paint). Carefully press each pin into the correct hole in the Insert until it clicks into place. There are twelve holes but only seven Contacts are used. Be certain that the pin is in the correct hole. If you make a mistake, Contacts may be withdrawn once seated by firmly pushing the pin against a hard object.

5. Slide the Collet next to the Insert and gently rotate to line up the small key on the top of each piece. Locate the

small keyway on the inside of the Body (opposite the large keyway). Line up the keys and keyways then push the Insert and Collet into the Body. Slide the End Cap down the cable and screw into place on the Body. Assembly is now complete. Install connector(s) on the other end(s) of the cable(s).

6. Installation and Removal: To Insert: Line up Black Arrow on top of connector with the

top of the receptacle. Insert connector until it bottoms and locks into place.

To Remove: Pull outward on knurled ring.

Arrow

30

MORE TRANSMITTER POWER — DO YOU NEED IT?

Why use higher power? (This section is only applicable to Government and export models). All other things being equal, higher power will give you greater range and a more solid signal within that range. However, our experience is that higher power may actually make things worse when used in certain environments. Interior locations with surfaces that reflect radio waves, such as office interiors with lots of metal objects like filing cabinets, metal chairs and desks, office walls that typically use metal studs, is one such environment. Warehouses filled with metal shelving, manufacturing areas with machinery, ships (all metal) and steel reinforced concrete buildings are other examples. What happens, is that the radio waves bounce off these metal objects and combine with the direct signal in a way that can actually cancel the signal or greatly weaken it ( see page 21 for a more thorough explanation), causing poor reception. Increasing the power also increases the power of the reflections so nothing is accomplished. Actually, if a directional antenna is being used, you may be worse off because the higher power of the reflections may now exceed the antenna’s ability to reject signals coming from other than the desired direction. So when having transmission difficulties in these circumstances, you are usually much better off leaving the power on the low setting and using a higher gain, more directional antenna, or simply moving the antenna to a better location. Exteriors are generally the best place to use higher power. However, in dense urban areas, signal reflections off buildings may cause the same sort of problems as outlined above. From an ecological standpoint, it is often better to use directional antennas such as our AY-7, 10 dB gain Yagi instead of raising the power. The DC power consumption goes from 1.8 Watts at low power to 6 Watts at high power; a much higher demand on a battery in DC powered systems. If several systems are in use at the same time, in the same general area, the higher power may cause interference between units. If you really do need more range, then high gain antennas and higher power are the best combination. Our customers report that a range of 4 miles (6 km) is reasonable using 12 to 15dB gain Yagi antennas at both ends and the high power setting under line of sight conditions. CAUTION: Do not use the high power setting with the supplied rubber duck antenna. These antennas are rugged and convenient to use, but they are not especially good antennas. Too much signal is reflected back into the transmitter and may cause it to become unstable. The picture will be distorted and tear or roll. Turn off the transmitter immediately if this happens. Only use the high power setting when driving a good antenna. Our Patch or Yagis work fine at high power. See next section for instructions on setting the transmitter RF output power.

31

Transmitter Internal Switches and

Export Models Power Settings

CVT-500 Power Settings NOTE: Power switches are inactive in the Low power version. A different processor is required for the export version to activate the variable power features. Disassembly & Re-assembly: Remove four screws in bottom and lift off top. See below for switch settings. To re-assemble, place top on and screw in 4 screws. BE CAREFUL not to over-tighten, as they will strip. NOTE: High power position is shown and will work, BUT unit will overheat since plastic is a very poor heat conductor. DO NOT EXCEED MEDIUM POSITION.

RF Power Out, DC Current and Maximum applied voltage for CVT-500 Transmitter

1. Low power 0dBm, ± 3dB (1 mW), 160mA ± 25mA 24V Max 2. Low-Medium power 8dBm, ± 3dB (10 mW), 170mA ± 25mA 24V Max 3. Medium power 18dBm, ± 3dB (100 mW), 240mA ± 25mA 16V Max 4. DO NOT USE THIS POSITION!

Switch orientation -- Antenna end of Printed Circuit Board

ANTENNA S6 S7 Position 1 shown (default) 1 2 3 4

S6 S7 S6 S7 S6 S7 S6 S7

32

CVT-1000/1400/1500 Transmitter Internal Switch Settings

Transmitter Disassembly: Locate the rear cover of the CVT (antenna end). Remove the “O” ring and unscrew the switch guard by carefully gripping it with a pair of pliers that have padded jaws so as not to scratch the guard. Place unit on its back or side and unscrew the two screws on either end of the top panel. Remove the rear panel by gently prying it lose from the enclosure. CVT-1000/1400 Slide the top panel off. Access switches as required.

Additional steps for CVT-1500 Transmitters with Timecode module:

CVT-1500 remove “O” ring from Video In BNC and remove the nut from the Neutrik connector. Push entire contents of unit out the back. (The bottom cover may also slide out the back as well.) Watch for the spacer on the back of the Neutrik connector. Unplug the Timecode module and top cover from the transmitter board. Access switches as required. Internal Switches S7 S6

EXPORT POWER Low Low-Medium Medium High

S7 S6

MIC POWER OFF ON

S7 S6

Top of Transmitter PCB

S2 S3

S5 S4

AUDIO ENABLE OFF ON

TIMECODE or TIME/DATE HEADER

VIDEO TERMINATION OFF ON

Switches S6 & S7: TRANSMITTER POWER sets Transmitter power on export models. Set to the desired position making sure that the dots on the switches match the dots shown above. NOTE: Power switches are inactive in the FCC/IC version Setting Max Input Voltage Current Draw Approximate Transmitter Power 1. Low power (Default) 30 VDC 150mA ± 25mA 0 dBm ± 3dB 1mW typical 2. Low Medium power 30 VDC 175mA ± 25mA +8 dBm ± 3dB 10mW “ 3. Medium power 24 VDC 250mA ± 25mA +18 dBm ± 3dB 100mW “ 4. High power 16 VDC 480mA ± 50mA +27 dBm ± 3dB 600mW “

Switch S4: MIC POWER ON/OFF Turns 9VDC phantom power for microphone On or Off (Default ON) Switch S2: VIDEO TERMINATION ON/OFF Turns 75 Ohm video termination On or Off (Default ON) Switch S5: AUDIO ENABLE ON/OFF Turns audio subcarrier On or Off (Default ON) Switch S3: TIMECODE ENABLE ON/OFF (Default OFF CVT-1000/1400 or ON CVT-1500)

Re-assembly: CVT-1000/1400 Slide the top cover back in place. Make sure that the bottom plate is in its grooves. If the bottom plate has been removed, check that heatsink spacers on back of voltage regulators are present. (See ALL MODELS below.)

CVT-1500 Carefully plug Timecode board back into header, place top metal cover over TCI board. Align the top panel, TCI board, Transmitter board and bottom panel with the slots and grooves in the case sides. Slide entire assembly back in place. Be careful not to dislodge heatsink spacers on back of voltage regulators. On CVT-1500 place the white spacer on inside of Neutrik connector. Replace and tighten nut on Neutrik connector. Replace “O” ring on Video In BNC.

ALL MODELS Put the back cover on and replace the two screws. Before the screws are fully tightened, be sure that the top, bottom and back covers are properly aligned. Screw on the switch guard and place the “O” ring back onto the Antenna jack.

33

APPLICATION NOTE 1

Range Information - Coherent Wireless Video-Audio Transmitters & Receivers The first question anyone asks us at a trade show is “How far will your system transmit?”. When we answer, “it depends…” they usually don’t have the time for a better explanation. In an effort to slightly quantify our answer, here are the results of some tests that we performed in and around our building in Valencia (a Los Angeles suburb), California.

The picture and audio quality limits for an “end of range” notation is “VCR” quality or better, meaning that the yellow light on our signal strength meter was as low as we went. The five light indicator order is green, green, green, yellow, red, for best to worst signal.

Please note that Coherent transmitters are furnished at the approved FCC power levels. References to higher power versions are for government and export users. Much greater range is possible at these higher powers.

The antennas used were the standard omnidirectional, “rubber duck” type flex antennas normally supplied with our systems (except the CVT-500 which has a built in patch type antenna). The directional Yagi antenna referred to below is our AY-18.

The test area used is only about 1.3 miles long. In several instances, the Receiver signal strength indicator showed a strong signal at the end of the test range, and we estimate that the signal would have gone an additional 0.5 to 1 mile or considerably more if the receiver's antenna elevation were higher than 5 feet.

In a test by the US Navy, using our system at high power, with two 10 dB Yagi antennas, they reported a range of 4 miles. With higher gain antennas and elevation, we feel they would go quite a bit farther.

DISTANCE POWER RECEIVE ANTENNA

TRANSMIT ANTENNA

NOTES: CVR-1000 Receiver used for all tests

190 ft std std std Outside on parking lot,. 5 Ft. above ground, surrounded by many cars & several buildings. CVT-1000 Video & Audio Transmitter

1050 ft high std std Outside from 2nd floor roof to street with many concrete & steel buildings on both sides of road partially blocking signal.

1000-1100 ft. std 14 dB gain Yagi

std as above

0.4 mi (2100ft) std std std Outside, mostly clear line of sight (some trees & a large dip in road, partially blocking signal). 5 feet above ground.

0.75mi (4000ft) high std std As above

1.3 mi (6900ft) std 14 dB gain Yagi

std As above, strong signal at 1.3 mi

0.5 mi (2640ft) std std internal As above, CVT-500 Video only Transmitter & CVR-1000 Receiver. End of range

1.3 mi (6900ft) std 14 dB Yagi internal As above, strong signal at 1.3 mi. To convert to meters multiply Feet times 0.3048

Range inside most structures will be much less than outside. Interference from signal reflections, called multipath, is especially severe. A picture may be perfect in one spot and gone completely a foot away. We have chosen not to show precise figures for inside a building because of the large number of variables. These include building construction and materials, number and composition of walls and floors, as well as metal objects such as shelves, filing cabinets, office furniture, etc. As a very rough statement, we find that with proper antennas and placement, 100 to 300 ft. is realistic in an office. A store or warehouse is a very different environment and with room for directional antennas, much better range is possible. The best solution is to try one of our systems in your actual location.

34

APPLICATION NOTE 2

Antenna Cable Specifications for Coherent Products

Choosing the correct antenna for the job is absolutely critical for any wireless system. It is even more so with the low power limits imposed by the FCC and Industry Canada regulations for transmission at 902 to 928 MHz. At these frequencies, ordinary coaxial (coax) cable such as the standard RG-58 types exhibit huge losses—16.5 dB per 100’ (30.48m). Even with high gain antennas of 12 to 15 dB, it becomes obvious that signal reception will be poor indeed with cable losses such as these. If we restrict ourselves to a cable loss of 1.5 dB per receiver, and where permitted, 1.5 dB per transmitter, we still end up with 3 dB, or ½ our signal energy lost in the cable. Nonetheless, 1.5 db is about the minimum practical figure to consider. The connectors used also have losses. With good quality connectors, if we budget 0.25 dB per connector, or 0.5 dB per cable, this should be adequate. If we allow 1 dB for cable losses, this will maintain our desired specification. Cable type Loss at 100 ft (30.48 m) Cable diameter Length for a 1 dB

loss RG-58 16.5 dB 0.195 in 4.95mm 6.00 ft 1.97 m Ultralink 14.0 0.195 7.14 2.17 LMR-200 9.9 0.195 10.1 3.1 Belden RG-8X

12.8 0.242 6.15 7.8 2.6

LMR-240 7.6 0.240 6.1 13.15 4.3 RG-213/214 8.0 0.405 10.29 12.5 4.1 Ultralink 4.19 0.405 23.86 7.83 Belden 9913 4.2 0.405 23.8 7.8 LMR-400 3.9 0.405 25.64 8.4 LMR-600 2.5 0.590 14.99 40.00 13.1 LMR900 1.6 0.870 22.1 62.50 21.4 LMR-1700 0.936 1.670 42.42 106.8 35.0

If we use a fixed antenna directly mounted on the Transmitter, we can double these distances if absolutely required. Naturally, sometimes tradeoffs are necessary. If a greater cable length is required then we recommend, try to use a higher gain antenna to compensate. Numbers are derived from the Times Microwave “Communications Coax Selection Guide”.

35

APPLICATION NOTE 3

Video Cable Specifications for Coherent Products Your Coherent Video Transmission link will provide you with broadcast quality pictures. To maintain this picture quality, the correct type of video cable should be used. We recommend staying with name brands such as Alpha, Belden, Canare, Mogami, etc. and using double shielded type cable (one layer of foil shield and one layer of braided shield). We also recommend using 75 Ohm BNC connectors (available from AMP, Amphenol, Canare and others). The 75 Ohm types are distinguished from the more common 50 Ohm variety by a lack of a white (Teflon in the better quality BNCs), insulator surrounding the center contact. All cables have losses due to the resistance, capacitance and inductance of the center conductor and the shield. Generally, the larger the cable, the lower the losses at high frequencies. Almost all video gear is rated for use with a 75 Ohm characteristic impedance cables. The military RG prefix is still commonly used in the USA to refer to standard types. Naturally, each manufacturer also has their own part number. Three types are normally used with video equipment. The chart below shows their basic specifications, and most importantly, the maximum length that should be used before switching to the next larger size. Cable Type Loss at 100

Ft (30.48m) at 10 MHz

Cable diameter inches

Cable diameter mm

Length for a1 dB loss (at 5 MHz) Feet meters

RG-59 0.88 dB 0.240 6.1 228 74.8 RG-6 0.67 0.303 7.7 298 98 RG-11 0.49 0.402 10.2 408 134

For users wishing to maintain Broadcast specifications, divide the above numbers by 2. For CATV and Industrial closed circuit television applications including security, the above distances are reasonable to maintain very good quality video. The signal level going to most Video equipment is quite critical, especially for VCRs. Unless Video amplifiers are used to boost or make up the signal lost, we recommend keeping the signal loss to within 1 dB. Additional amplifiers will also add noise and may distort the video signal as well. Since high frequency information is lost first, a special type of amplifier, called a Processing or Proc. Amp is best as it can be adjusted to boost the high frequencies more than the low ones to compensate. If color fidelity is not important, or Monochrome (Black and White) cameras are being used, the above numbers may be doubled.

36

APPLICATION NOTE 4

Range Calculations and Link Margins If you are planning a fixed point-to-point installation and wish to check to see if the distance you need is within the range of your equipment, here is how to do it. There are however, several items to take into consideration. 1. Service Companies exist that have exact site maps for much of the world and will give you far more accurate results than a simple formula. They take into account such things as natural and man made obstructions, precise knowledge of the terrain, exact distances, they check for interference by other users, verify desired quality of reception, etc. They will also guarantee their results. 2. The following formula is much better than a guess, but is subject to modification by factors such as those listed above. There is no substitute for actually trying the system exactly where it will be used. Inexpensive software is available through Amateur and Mobile Radio Dealers to speed these calculations as well. More expensive software is also available that contains detailed maps and other resources.

Calculations: Multiply answers in miles by 0.62 to obtain kilometers and divide feet by 0.3048 for meters

1. First things first: Conduct a survey. Is there a reasonable path? Are there buildings, hills, forests, etc. in the way? If a building is in the way, pretend you are playing pool. Could the signal bounce off that building to an adjacent building and back the way you want? If there are obstructions, can the antennas be mounted high enough to go over the top? 2. Calculate the radio line of sight distance (about 1.18 times the visual line of sight distance at 900 MHz). At 6 ft AGL, the line of sight is about 3 Miles. At 25 ft. the visual line of sight is about 6 miles, but multiplied by 1.18 for the radio line of sight, you get 7 miles. For other heights: multiply D (distance in miles) * 1.4 * H (height in feet of antennas) = ________. If you need to calculate the required antenna height, the formula is H=(D*D/2. 3. Next add in the Space Loss: Express this as a negative number. This works out to: -95.84 dB per mile at 914 MHz. It increases by -6 dB each time you double the distance. For instance, 2 miles would be -102 dB. To calculate for other distances: SL (dB) = 96.6 + 20 log distance (miles) + 20 log Frequency (MHz) = ______dB. 4. Now plug in Transmit Power, Receiver Sensitivity, Antenna gains, cable & connector losses (check with cable & connector manufacturer), and Space loss. Receiver sensitivity is traditionally expressed as a negative number, so invert the sign and ADD it to the other items. To convert antenna gains expressed in dBd to dBi, ADD 2.2 dB Example: Transmit Power: Export model CVT-1000 set to 100 mW +20 dBm Coherent CVR-1000 Receiver sensitivity for a Video SNR of 45 dB 75 dB Transmitter Antenna Gain (AY-18 Antenna) 15.2 dBi Receiver Antenna Gain (AY-18 Antenna) 15.2 dBi Cable/connector losses (check cable & connector manufacturer) -3 dB Space loss (Two mile path) -101.84 dB Margin +20.56 dB 5. To simplify Space loss calculations, add 6 dB every time you double the distance (going from 2 to 4

miles in the above example would give us a link margin of 14.56 dB). 6. Is your link margin sufficient?. 10 dB is on the low side, 20 dB is generous. Link Margin: _______dB. For our FCC part 15 approved (USA & Canada) Transmitters, the power out is 0 dBm and the Transmit

antenna gain is 2.2 dBi. Export settings are +10 dBm, +20 dBm and + 27 dBm. 7. Because of the way radio waves travel, they broaden at an area called the Fresnel zone. This point must

be free of obstructions. The most important spot in this area is at the lower 0.6 Fresnel done. To find the

37

lower 0.6 Fresnel zone, calculate the first Fresnel zone: F1 = 72.1 * sq. rt.(d*d/2fd) = __________ * 0.6 for 0.6 Fresnel zone = ________. F1 is the Fresnel zone in feet, d = midway distance in miles.

8. To calculate link margins inside a building is not at all straightforward. Many factors determine the actual

range: Building composition (cement, brick or wood), the internal building design, number of intervening walls and floors, internal furnishings and equipment (filing cabinets, metal shelving, etc.), and not the least, people walking around and causing signal absorption. Another issue is multipath signal reflections, which can cause deep signal nulls in unexpected places. We recommend a detailed site survey.

Typical range will be far less than outdoor free space conditions. Also, the antennas used (typically 5 to 8 dB gain patch antennas, ceiling mounted), are lower gain since space often does not allow for the larger high gain directional antennas. As a guesstimate, an additional 30 dB may be added to the path loss as compensation for these unfavorable conditions.

To convert to kilometers multiply by 1.6.

Rev. 9/22/99

Thanks to the Olde Antenna Lab of Denver (Dave Clingerman), for his clear outline of this material.

38

Applications Note 5

Coherent Communications, Inc. Transmitter and Receiver Operating Frequencies 5/1/00 rev. 1/8/01

1. CVT-500, CVT-1000/1400 Formerly Standard Frequencies, now special order:

Ch 1 906.000 MHz Ch 2 908.000 Ch 3 910.000 Ch 4 912.000 Ch 5 914.000 Ch 6 916.000 Ch 7 918.000 Ch 8 920.000 Ch 9 922.000 Ch 0 924.000

2. CVT-500, CVT-1000/1400 Wideband Frequencies, now Standard:

Ch 1 903.750 MHz Ch 2 906.250 Ch 3 908.750 CH 4 911.250 Ch 5 913.750 Ch 6 916.250 Ch 7 918.750 Ch 8 921.250 Ch 9 923.750 Ch 0 926.250

3. CVT-M Standard

Ch A 904.000 (matches Ch 1 both on CVT-500/1000/1400 wideband, and on former standard frequency list).

Ch B 918.125 (matches Ch 7 on CVT-500/1000/1400 wideband , or matches Ch 6 on former standard frequency list).

4. CVT-M Alternate

Ch A 911.000 (matches Ch 4 on either CVT-500/1000/1400 wideband,frequency list).

Ch B 925.234 (POORLY matches Ch 9 or 0 on CVT-500/1000/1400 wmatches Ch 0 on former standard frequency list).

5. CVR-200 Standard L.O.

Ch A 765.000 + 140 = 905.000 (matches Ch 1 on either CVT-500/1000former standard frequency list).

Ch B 776.953 + 140 = 916.953 (matches Ch 7 on CVT-500/1000/1400Ch 6 on former standard frequency list).

6. CVR-200 Alternate L.O.

Ch A 772.000 + 140 = 912.000 (matches Ch 4 on either CVT-500/1000/former standard frequency list).

8. CCCCCCCN

9. CCCCCCCN

10 CCCCCN

39

CVT-500, CVT-1000/1400 905 to 1005 MHz

h 1 = 905 h 2 = 925 h 3 = 945 h 4 = 965 h 5 = 985 h 6 = 1005 h 7, 8, 9, 0 = 1005 ote: 20 MHz spacing

CVT-500, CVT-1000/1400 950 to 1050 MHz

h 1 = 950 h 2 = 970 h 3 = 990 h 4 = 1010 h 5 = 1030 h 6 = 1050 h 7, 8, 9, 0 = 1050 ote: 20 MHz spacing

. CVT-500, CVT-1000/1400 1240 to 1300 MHz

h 1 1243 h 2 1261 h 3 1279 h 4 1297 h 5 to Ch 0 =1297 ote: 18MHz spacing
or former standard
ideband, or properly

/1400 wideband, or on

wideband, or matches

1400 wideband, or on

Ch B 784.000 + 140 = 924.065 (POORLY matches 9 or 0 on CVT-500/1000/1400 wideband, or properly matches Ch 0 on former standard frequency list).

7. CVR-1000/1500: to find Local Oscillator frequency, deduct 70 MHz from the carrier frequency.

NOTE: Frequencies above the 902 to 928 MHz ISM band are on a special order basis. Additional charges apply and longer lead times are required. These models are for export or Government use only and are not FCC approved.

Service & Calibration These Coherent products are covered by a one year limited warranty (see warranty statement on page 42). We encourage you to return any defective units for a free repair, or if outside of warranty, for a reasonable fee. We strongly advise that anyone wishing to align or repair any of these Coherent products do so only if they have the equipment, knowledge and experience to deal with microwave radio frequencies, as well as video and audio circuits. Because of the complexity of our equipment, and its proprietary circuits, we do not generally release our Service Manual. If your situation is such that you feel that you or your organization needs to be able to service this equipment, please contact us. Please feel free to call us at +1-661-295-0300, Fax at +1-661-295-0090, or e-mail at [email protected].

40

Transmitter Specifications CVT-500/1000/1400/1500 Operating distance 1000 ft (305m) line of sight (US / Canadian version), more or less depending on conditions, antennas used, elevation, etc. Government & Export version will have considerably more range.

O ncy perating Freque 902-928 MHz in 10 user selectable channels.

Transmission Type FM, Crystal referenced, synthesized phase locked loop. Frequency controlled by microprocessor. Frequency stability (-20 to +70º`C, -4ºF to +131ºF) ± 0.003% Radiated power (US & Canadian version) 50 mVolts / meter @ 3m Spurious & harmonic response < 40 dBc

Video System NTSC or PAL Video level (internally adjustable) 1.0 Volt p-p into 75 Ohms Impedance 75 Ohms Video deviation ± 3 MHz (adjustable from ± 1 to ± 5 MHz)

External antenna & audio section not applicable to CVT-500 Antenna connector US/Canada, custom reverse polarized TNC. Government / Export, 50 Ohm BNC optional. Antenna US/Canada: 2.5 dBi gain. Flexible helical type (Rubber Duck) Audio Modulation Type FM Maximum deviation ± 75 kHz System signal to noise ratio at 50 kHz deviation 65 dBA Pre & deemphasis 75µ Second Audio Input & Outputs All dB figures referenced to 0 dB = 0.774Vrms Microphone input level (full gain to minimum gain) -37 dB to -6 dB for ± 75 kHz deviation Microphone input impedance 2k Ohms Power for Electret microphones (switchable) +9 VDC @ 1mA max. Line input (full gain to minimum gain) -4 dB to +22 dB for ± 75 kHz deviation Line input impedance 10k Ohms Frequency response at 20 dB below full deviation 40 Hz to 15 kHz +1, -3 dB , 60 Hz to 10 kHz ± 1 dB (may be extended to -3 @ 30kHz.) Total harmonic distortion (before limiting) 0.25% at 400 Hz (0.15% typical) Audio Carrier Offset from Video 6.5 MHz

Power 12 VDC Nominal. See below for details.

Transmitted power levels, current consumption and maximum voltage Type of Transmitted Current Consumption / Maximum Voltage Transmitter Power Levels CVT-500 CVT-1000 & CVT-1400 CVT-1500 US & Canada version 50mV / m @ 3m 140 mA / 24V Max 165 mA / 30V Max 265 mA / 30V Max Government 10 mW 160 mA / 24V Max 185 mA / 30V Max 285 mA / 30V Max & 100 mW 250 mA / 16V Max 265 mA / 30V Max 365 mA / 24V Max Export version 600 mW NA 550 mA / 16V Max 650 mA / 16V Max

Mechanical CVT-500 CVT-1000 & CVT-1400 CVT-1100 & CVT-1500 Size

2.75W x 5.0L x 0.91H in. (70 x 117 x 23 mm)

3.7W x 4.2L x 1.2H in. (93 x 107 x 30 mm)

3.7W x 4.2L x 1.2H in. (93 x 107 x 30 mm)

with connectors & bracket 2.75W x 5.0L x 0.91H in. (70 x 127 x 23 mm)

3.7W x 5.2L x 1.4H in. (93 x 131 x 37 mm)

3.7W x 5.2L x 1.4H in. (93 x 131 x 37 mm)

Weight 4.5 oz. (127 g) 9.9 oz (281 g) & 10.0 oz. (283 g) 11.4 oz. (324 g) & 11.5 oz. (327 g) with antenna & bracket NA 13.3 oz (379 g) & 13.4 oz. (381 g) 14.9 oz. (422 g) & 14.9 oz. (424 g)

Connectors: CVT-500 2.5 mm center positive power & 75 ohm BNC Video CVT-1000 & CVT-1100 7 pin Mini-DIN, 6 terminal barrier strip, BNC & Reverse polarized TNC CVT-1400 & CVT-1500 Neutrik MiniCon, BNC & Reverse polarized TNC

Environmental Operating temperature -20ºC to +60ºC (-4ºF to +131ºF) Storage temperature -40ºC to +70ºC (-40ºF to + 158ºF) Humidity (non-condensing) 90%

Approvals: FCC & Industry Canada No licensing required under FCC part 15.249 & IC RSS-210 for standard systems. Higher power systems transmitter has four power levels for Government or Export applications. Rev 4/26/99

41

Receiver Specifications CVR-1000 & CVR-1500 Operating distance 1000 ft (305m) line of sight (US / Canadian version), more or less depending on conditions, antennas used, elevation, etc. Licensed, Government & Export version will have considerably more range.

Operating Frequency 902-928 MHz in 10 user selectable channels.

Receiver Type FM, Single conversion Superhetrodyne with frequency control via synthesized phase locked loop, crystal referenced. Noise figure <2 dB Frequency stability (-20 to +70º`C) 0.003%

Video System NTSC or PAL Video level (internally adjustable) 1.0 Volt p-p into 75 Ohms Impedance 75 Ohms Video bandwidth 10 Hz to 3.0 MHz ±1 dB typical ±1 dB 10Hz - 4.2MHz 10 Hz to 5.5 MHz +1, -3 dB Video signal to noise ratio referenced to: Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) 1st green light RF level -40 dBm Video SNR 60 dB 64 dB typical 2nd green light RF level -50 dBm Video SNR 55 dB 60 dB typical 3rd green light RF level -60 dBm Video SNR 52 dB 55 dB typical Yellow light RF level -70 dBm Video SNR 45 dB 48 dB typical Red light RF level -80 dBm Video SNR 30 dB 34 dB typical Differential Gain at -40 dBm RF input 5 % typical 2% Differential Phase at -40 dBm RF input 5 º typical 3º

Audio Output (except with CVT-500) All dB figures referenced to 0 dB = 0.774Vrms Line output (Receiver) adjustable from 0 dB to +10 dB at +/- 75 kHz Deviation. Frequency response at 20 dB below full deviation 40 Hz to 15 kHz +1, -3 dB , 60 Hz to 10 kHz ± 1 dB (may be extended to -3 @ 30kHz.) Total harmonic distortion (before limiting) 0.25% at 400 Hz, 0.15% typical

Audio Modulation Type FM Maximum deviation ±75 kHz System signal to noise ratio at 50 kHz deviation 65 dBA Pre & deemphasis 75µ Second

Audio Carrier Offset from Video 6.5 MHz

Power 12 VDC (10.5-30 VDC)

CVR-1000 CVR-1500 Current consumption 220 mA at 12 VDC 330 mA at 12 VDC Mechanical Size

3.7W x 6.2L x 1.2H in. (98 x 155 x 30mm)

5.7W x 6.2L x 1.2H in. (143 x 155 x 30 mm)

with connectors & bracket 3.7W x 7.9L x 1.4H in. (98 x 201 x 36.8mm)

5.7W x 6.2L x 1.4H in. (143 x 158 x 36.8mm)

Weight 13.6 oz. (385 g) 18.4 oz. (527 g) with connectors & bracket 17.1 oz. (486 g) 22.9 oz. (645 g)

Video output connector 75 Ohm BNC Antenna connector(s) 50 Ohm BNC (3 on CVT-1500) Audio output & power connector 4 pin mini-DIN & 4 terminal barrier strip in parallel

Environmental Operating temperature -20ºC to +60ºC (-4ºF to +131ºF) Storage temperature -40ºC to +75ºC (-40ºF to + 152ºF) Humidity (non-condensing) 90%

Approvals: FCC & Industry Canada No licensing required under FCC part 15.249 & IC RSS-210 for standard systems. Higher power systems transmitter has four power levels for Government or Export applications. Rev.4/26/99

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Warranty This Coherent Communications product is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of shipment. During the warranty period, Coherent Communications will, at its option, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective. Warranty Service For warranty service or repair, this product must be returned to Coherent Communications, or a designated service facility.

For products returned to Coherent Communications for warranty service, the buyer shall prepay shipping charges to Coherent Communications and Coherent Communications shall pay shipping charges to return the product to the Buyer. However, the Buyer shall pay all shipping charges, duties, and taxes for products returned to and from Coherent Communications from another country. Limitation of Warranty The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the Buyer, Buyer-supplied products or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental or functional specifications for the product, or improper site preparation or maintenance.

The design and implementation of any system or circuitry using this product is the sole responsibility of the Buyer. Coherent Communications does not warranty the Buyer’s system or malfunctions of Coherent Communications products that result from the Buyer’s system. In addition, Coherent Communications does not warranty any damage that occurs as a result of the Buyer’s circuits or system or any defects that result from Buyer-supplied products. No other warranty is expressed or implied. Coherent Communications specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Exclusive Remedies The remedies provided herein are the Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedies. Coherent Communications shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, whether based on contract, tort, or any other legal theory. Notice The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. Coherent Communications makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

Coherent Communications shall not be liable herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced or translated to another language without the prior written consent of Coherent Communications, Inc. Safety Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the product to Coherent Communications, Inc. for service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained. Safety Terms: Warning Calls attention to a procedure, practice or condition that could possibly cause bodily injury or death. Caution Calls attention to a procedure, practice or condition that could possibly cause damage to equipment and its ability to function. ========================================================================= Warning For continued protection against fire, replace line fuses only with fuses of the same specified type and rating. Do not use wall power adapters or power supplies at other than their rated voltage. Before installing antennas, see Warning on page 22.

Caution There are no operator serviceable parts inside. Have service performed only by qualified technicians.

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FCC Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used according to the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. • Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that which the receiver

is connected. • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Shielded cables and I/O cords must be used for this equipment to comply with the relevant FCC regulations. Changes or modifications not expressly approved in writing by Coherent Communications, Inc. may void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Industry Canada Statement This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Thank you for purchasing our products. We hope that they will serve you well.

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NOTES:

28245 Avenue Crocker Suite 200 Valencia, California 91355 USA

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PHONE: (661) 295-0300 FAX: (661) 295-0090

Website: www.cocom.com e-mail: [email protected]

1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 & 2001 Coherent Communications, Inc. Printed in USA Rev 14 November 2001

mailto:[email protected]

Documents

Instruction Manual, CVT-500 / 1000 / 1400 / 1500 & CVR ... · colored connector on the bottom of the CVT-1000/1400). b. Power & Audio connections: Unless you are handy with a soldering