QUASonix 3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMS Telemetry Receiver Combiner Instruction Manual

: June 15, 2024
: QUASonix

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMS Telemetry Receiver Combiner

Specifications

Product Name: 3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM
Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Certification: ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Manufacturer: Quasonix, Inc.

Address: 6025 Schumacher Park Dr., West Chester, OH 45069

Date: 08 December 2023

Revision: 1.0.4

System Version: 19.3

Jurisdiction: U.S. Department of Commerce, categorized as 5A991;
not covered by ITAR

Installation Instructions

3.1 Mechanical

1. Place the receiver-combiner on a stable and level
surface.

2. Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent
overheating.

3. Connect the necessary cables and antennas to the appropriate
ports.

3.2 Thermal

1. Maintain ambient temperature within the specified operating
range (-10°C to 50°C).

2. Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperature
variations.

3.3 Electrical

1. Connect the power supply to the designated power input.

2. Ensure that the power supply voltage matches the specified
requirements (e.g., 110V/220V).

3. Verify proper grounding of the unit for safety purposes.

User Interface

5.2 Signal Graph and Signal Indicators

The signal graph displays the received signal strength over
time, while the signal indicators provide visual feedback on signal
quality.

5.2.2 Spectrum Graph

The spectrum graph shows the frequency distribution of received
signals.

5.2.3 Diversity Combiner

The diversity combiner combines signals from multiple antennas
to improve reception quality.

5.2.3.1 Best Channel Selector Status: Indicates the selected
channel with the strongest signal.

5.2.4 Monitor Selective Display Options

Configure the display settings to show specific channels or
frequency ranges.

5.2.5 Client Level Update Rate

Adjust the update rate of the client display for real-time
monitoring.

5.3 Configure Screen

Access the configuration options to customize various settings
of the receiver-combiner.

5.4 Combiner

Configure the combiner settings for optimal signal reception and
processing.

5.4.1.1 Frequency Diversity: Enable frequency diversity mode to
enhance signal resilience.

5.4.4 PCM Encoding

Select the appropriate PCM encoding method for audio signal
processing.

5.4.5 Channel A Video Output

Connect a video output device to channel A for video
monitoring.

5.4.6 Channel B Video Output

Connect a video output device to channel B for video
monitoring.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use this receiver-combiner with any type of

antenna?

A: Yes, you can connect any compatible antenna to the
receiver-combiner.

Q: How do I update the firmware of the receiver-combiner?

A: Firmware updates can be obtained from the manufacturer’s
website. Follow the provided instructions to install the latest
firmware.

Q: What is the maximum operating range of this

receiver-combiner?

A: The maximum operating range is determined by various factors,
including antenna performance and environmental conditions. Please
refer to the product documentation for more specific
information.

ISO 9001:2015 Certified
Installation and Operation Manual 3rd Generation Dual Channel
Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Quasonix, Inc. 6025 Schumacher Park Dr.
West Chester, OH 45069 08 December 2023 Revision 1.0.4
Applies to RDMSTM System Version 19.3 Specifications subject to change without notice. All Quasonix receiver products are under U.S. Department of Commerce jurisdiction categorized as
5A991; not covered by ITAR No part of the document may be circulated, quoted, or reproduced for distribution without prior written approval from
Quasonix, Inc. Copyright Quasonix, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1 1.1 Description ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1 1.2 Nomenclature ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 1.2.1 Options …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 1.2.2 Detailed Option Descriptions ……………………………………………………………………………………… 3 1.2.2.1 SAW Filter Option 14 …………………………………………………………………………………………. 3 1.2.2.2 Cybersecurity CS, CS1, CS2 ………………………………………………………………………………. 3 1.2.2.3 Adaptive Equalizer – EQ………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 1.2.2.4 Viterbi Decoder (for Legacy PSK Only) – K7…………………………………………………………….. 4 1.2.2.5 Analog Video Outputs (J11) Hardware Option VO …………………………………………………. 4 1.2.3 Band Configurations …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 1.2.3.1 Additional Band Codes …………………………………………………………………………………………. 6 1.3 Package Contents ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
2 Specifications ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 3 Installation Instructions ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
3.1 Mechanical………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10 3.2 Thermal…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 3.3 Electrical …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
3.3.1 CRC Front Panel Connections …………………………………………………………………………………. 12 3.3.2 Front Panel Connections …………………………………………………………………………………………. 13 3.3.3 Electrical Signals ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15 4 Operating Instructions………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17 4.1 Power-on Operation……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17 4.2 Reset IP Address to Default ………………………………………………………………………………………… 17 5 Browser Interface ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 5.1 Network Screen …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19 5.2 Monitor Screen ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21
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5.2.1 Signal Graph and Signal Indicators …………………………………………………………………………… 24
5.2.2 Spectrum Graph …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 26
5.2.3 Diversity Combiner …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 27 5.2.3.1 Best Channel Selector Status ………………………………………………………………………………. 28
5.2.4 Monitor Selective Display Options…………………………………………………………………………….. 31 5.2.5 Client Level Update Rate ………………………………………………………………………………………… 33
5.3 Configure Screen ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 34
5.4 Combiner ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 34 5.4.1.1 Frequency Diversity ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 35
5.4.2 Channel Selection and Basic Settings ………………………………………………………………………. 35 5.4.2.1 Power Ratio (UQPSK Mode Only) ………………………………………………………………………… 37 5.4.2.2 AQPSK Mode …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 37 5.4.2.3 Playback Demodulator ………………………………………………………………………………………… 38 5.4.2.4 Data and Clock Polarity Settings ………………………………………………………………………….. 38 5.4.2.5 Data Quality Encapsulation (DQE) ……………………………………………………………………….. 39 5.4.2.6 Derandomizer Settings ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 41 5.4.2.7 Differential Decoding Settings (SOQPSK Only) ……………………………………………………… 42
5.4.3 Configure Advanced Settings …………………………………………………………………………………… 42 5.4.3.1 Measured Bit Rate Setting …………………………………………………………………………………… 43 5.4.3.2 IF Filter ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 43 5.4.3.3 Output Muting…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 44 5.4.3.4 Muting Timeout ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 44 5.4.3.5 AFC Mode …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 44 5.4.3.5.1 AFC Mode Track……………………………………………………………………………………… 45 5.4.3.5.2 AFC Mode Hold ………………………………………………………………………………………. 45 5.4.3.5.3 AFC Mode Off …………………………………………………………………………………………. 45 5.4.3.6 Best Channel Selector ………………………………………………………………………………………… 45 5.4.3.7 Time Aligner ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 47
5.4.4 PCM Encoding……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 48
5.4.5 Channel A Video Output………………………………………………………………………………………….. 49
5.4.6 Channel B Video Output………………………………………………………………………………………….. 50
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5.4.7 Channel A Video Scale …………………………………………………………………………………………… 50
5.4.8 Channel B Video Scale …………………………………………………………………………………………… 51
5.4.9 Tape Output Frequency ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 51
5.4.10 FM De-emphasis (PCM/FM Mode Only) ……………………………………………………………………. 51
5.4.11 Forward Error Correction…………………………………………………………………………………………. 51 5.4.11.1 LDPC Mode (SOQPSKLDPC or STCLDPC Modes Only) ……………………………………. 52 5.4.11.2 Viterbi Decoder (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) …………………………. 54 5.4.11.3 Convolutional Symbol ……………………………………………………………………………………… 54 5.4.11.4 Reed-Solomon Decoder (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) …………….. 56 5.4.11.5 Interleave Depth (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) ……………………….. 57
5.4.12 Advanced PCM/FM Settings ……………………………………………………………………………………. 57 5.4.12.1 Modulation Index Scaling Mode ……………………………………………………………………….. 57 5.4.12.1.1 Modulation Scaling Track ……………………………………………………………………….. 58 5.4.12.1.2 Modulation Scaling Hold …………………………………………………………………………. 59 5.4.12.1.3 Modulation Scaling Off …………………………………………………………………………… 60 5.4.12.1.4 Modulation Scaling Acquire …………………………………………………………………….. 61 5.4.12.2 Modulation Persistence …………………………………………………………………………………… 61 5.4.12.3 Mod Scale Index …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 62 5.4.12.4 Phase Noise Compensation …………………………………………………………………………….. 63
5.4.13 System Settings……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 64 5.4.13.1 Antenna Controls ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 64 5.4.13.2 HyperTrack ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 65 5.4.13.3 AGC Polarity ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 66 5.4.13.4 AGC Scale …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 66 5.4.13.5 AGC Time Constant………………………………………………………………………………………… 67 5.4.13.6 AGC Freeze …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 67 5.4.13.7 AGC Zero Mode……………………………………………………………………………………………… 68 5.4.13.8 AGC Compensate…………………………………………………………………………………………… 68 5.4.13.9 AM Bandwidth………………………………………………………………………………………………… 68 5.4.13.10 AM Polarity ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 68 5.4.13.11 AM Scale ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 69
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5.4.13.12 Downconvert Antenna …………………………………………………………………………………….. 69 5.4.14 Clock/Data Output Controls……………………………………………………………………………………… 70 5.4.15 Test Utilities …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 71
5.4.15.1 Noise Generator …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 72 5.4.15.2 Data Generator ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 73 5.4.15.3 BERT ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 75
5.4.15.3.1 BERT Settings …………………………………………………………………………………………. 75 5.4.15.3.2 BERT Measurement Status ……………………………………………………………………….. 78 5.4.16 Zero AGC Button ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 79 5.4.16.1 RSSI Display………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 81 5.4.17 Reset to Factory Defaults Button ……………………………………………………………………………… 82 5.4.18 Shutdown Hardware Button …………………………………………………………………………………….. 82 5.4.19 Reboot System Button ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 83 5.4.20 Save Receiver Settings Button…………………………………………………………………………………. 83 5.5 Presets ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 84 5.5.1 Save Presets …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 84 5.5.2 Load Presets …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 88 5.6 About………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 89 5.6.1 Firmware Updates ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 90 5.6.2 Modify Network Settings………………………………………………………………………………………….. 97 5.6.3 Monitor Page Default Update Rate …………………………………………………………………………… 98 5.7 Footer Tool Bar ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 98 5.7.1 Help ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 98 5.7.2 Page Access………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 99 5.7.3 Export …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 100 5.7.4 Import …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 101 6 Performance Specifications ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 103 6.1 Power ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 103
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6.2 RF Frequency Error ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 103 6.3 Bit Error Rate …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 103 6.4 Synchronization ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 104 6.5 RF Input ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 106
6.5.1 Additional Band Codes ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 107 7 IF Module …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 108 8 Maintenance Instructions ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 113 9 Product Warranty ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 114
9.1 Quasonix Limited Warranty Statement ………………………………………………………………………… 114 9.1.1 Extended Warranties …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 115
10 Technical Support and RMA Requests ……………………………………………………………………………… 116 11 Appendix A Recommended AM and AGC Settings for ACU Interfaces ……………………………….. 117
11.1 AM and AGC……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 117 11.2 AM AGC Compensation ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 117 11.3 Recommended Settings ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 117 12 Appendix B Phase Noise Compensation ………………………………………………………………………… 119 12.1 Trellis Demodulation Basics ………………………………………………………………………………………. 119
12.1.1 Trellis Demodulation Summary ………………………………………………………………………………. 120 12.2 Phase Noise Impact………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 121 12.3 Clock Jitter Impact ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 121 12.4 When to Use PNC ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 121 12.5 Know Your Transmitter ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 122 13 Appendix C – PCM Framer/Deframer Function …………………………………………………………………… 123 13.1 PCM Framer ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 123 13.2 PCM Deframer …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 124 14 Appendix D Factory Reset Values …………………………………………………………………………………. 125 15 Appendix E Import Quasonix Root Authority Certificate ……………………………………………………. 130
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15.1 Firefox …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 130
15.2 Edge, Internet Explorer, and Chrome ………………………………………………………………………….. 133
16 Appendix F Acronym List ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 139
List of Figures
Figure 1: Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner Part Number Construction ……………………….. 2 Figure 2: Mechanical Drawing Top View (Dual-channel Connectors Shown) ………………………………….. 10 Figure 3: Dual Channel Compact RDMS Receiver- Combiner (CRC) ……………………………………………….. 10 Figure 4: 3rd Generation Compact RDMSTM Receiver-Combiner …………………………………………………….. 11 Figure 5: CRC Front Panel………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 Figure 6: Baseband Signal Timing ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15 Figure 7: Custom MDM-25 IP Reset Connector …………………………………………………………………………….. 18 Figure 8: RDMSTM Browser Interface Header Tool Bar …………………………………………………………………… 19 Figure 9: Network Screen with Multiple Receivers and Active Channels …………………………………………… 20 Figure 10: Network Screen, Closeup of Left Side, Combiners Only ………………………………………………….. 20 Figure 11: Network Screen, Closeup of Right Side ………………………………………………………………………… 21 Figure 12: RDMSTM Browser Interface Tool Bar…………………………………………………………………………….. 21 Figure 13: Browser Interface Monitor Screen ………………………………………………………………………………… 22 Figure 14: Monitor Screen for RDMSTM with Only One Channel Available ………………………………………… 23 Figure 15: Monitor Screen Partial Status Information Block when Combiner On ………………………………… 23 Figure 16: Monitor Screen Partial Status Information Block when Combiner Off ………………………………… 23 Figure 17: Signal Graph and Signal Indicators Windows ………………………………………………………………… 24 Figure 18: Example PCM/FM Eye Pattern …………………………………………………………………………………….. 24 Figure 19: Example SOQPSK Constellation ………………………………………………………………………………….. 24 Figure 20: Waveform Graphics with Locked SOQPSK Signal………………………………………………………….. 25 Figure 21: Signal Graph and Signal Indicators Windows, Zero AGC RSSI Display “Relative” ……………… 26 Figure 22: Power Spectral Density Plot Window ……………………………………………………………………………. 27 Figure 23: Diversity Combiner Link with Locked Signal…………………………………………………………………… 27 Figure 24: Best Channel Indicator Example ………………………………………………………………………………….. 28 Figure 25: Best Channel Indicator-Combiner…………………………………………………………………………………. 29 Figure 26: Best Channel Indicator-Ch 1………………………………………………………………………………………… 30 Figure 27: Best Channel Indicator-Ch 2………………………………………………………………………………………… 30 Figure 28: Best Channel Data Quality Better than Combiner Data Quality ………………………………………… 30 Figure 29: Best Channel Indicator Off (Grey) ………………………………………………………………………………… 31
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Figure 30: Monitor Display Menu …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 31 Figure 31: Monitor Full Display (Default) ………………………………………………………………………………………. 32 Figure 32: Monitor Eye Pattern/Constellation Display Only ……………………………………………………………… 32 Figure 33: Monitor PSD (Spectrum) Only ……………………………………………………………………………………… 33 Figure 34: Monitor Combiner Display Only ……………………………………………………………………………………. 33 Figure 35: Monitor Combiner Display Only ……………………………………………………………………………………. 34 Figure 36: RDMSTM Browser Interface Header Tool Bar …………………………………………………………………. 34 Figure 37: Configure Screen, Combiner Section ……………………………………………………………………………. 34 Figure 38: Configuration Screen with Combiner On, Channel 1 Displays ………………………………………….. 35 Figure 39: Configuration Screen with Combiner Off, Channel 1 and Channel 2 Display ……………………… 36 Figure 40: Configure Basic Settings Window-PCM/FM Mode ………………………………………………………….. 36 Figure 41: Configure Screen, Messages and Alerts ……………………………………………………………………….. 37 Figure 42: Configure Basic Settings Window AQPSK Mode, Two Bit Rates ……………………………………… 38 Figure 43: Settings Window, Data Polarity Selection ……………………………………………………………………… 39 Figure 44: DQM Calibration Fixture Process …………………………………………………………………………………. 39 Figure 45: DQE Format ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 40 Figure 46: Configure Basic Settings Window, DQ Encapsulation Checked ……………………………………….. 41 Figure 47: Settings Window, Derandomizer Drop Down Menu ………………………………………………………… 41 Figure 48: Configure Basic Settings Window-SOQPSK Mode …………………………………………………………. 42 Figure 49: Advanced Settings Window …………………………………………………………………………………………. 43 Figure 50: Advanced Settings Window, IF Filter Menu……………………………………………………………………. 44 Figure 51: Advanced Settings Window, AFC Mode Menu……………………………………………………………….. 45 Figure 52: Advanced Settings Window, Best Channel Selector Checked………………………………………….. 46 Figure 53: System Block Diagram with Best Channel Selector ………………………………………………………… 47 Figure 54: Advanced Settings Window, Time Aligner Selection Checked …………………………………………. 48 Figure 55: Advanced Settings Window, PCM Encoding Drop Down Menu………………………………………… 49 Figure 56: Advanced Settings Window, Channel A Video Output Drop Down Menu …………………………… 49 Figure 57: Advanced Settings Window, Channel B Video Output Drop Down Menu …………………………… 50 Figure 58: Advanced Settings Window, Channel A Video Scale ………………………………………………………. 50 Figure 59: Advanced Settings Window, Channel B Video Scale ………………………………………………………. 51 Figure 60: Advanced Settings Window, Tape Output Frequency ……………………………………………………… 51 Figure 61: Advanced Settings Window, FM De-emphasis ………………………………………………………………. 51 Figure 62: Forward Error Correction Window when in a PSK Mode …………………………………………………. 52 Figure 63: Forward Error Correction Window, when in SOQPSKLDPC or SOQPSKSTC Mode …………… 53 Figure 64: Forward Error Correction Window, LDPC Mode Drop Down Menu …………………………………… 53 Figure 65: Forward Error Correction Window ………………………………………………………………………………… 54 Figure 66: I and Q Data Streams Independently Encoded ………………………………………………………………. 55
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Figure 67: I and Q Data from Single Convolutional Encoder ……………………………………………………………. 55 Figure 68: Forward Error Correction Window, Convolutional Symbol Enabled (Checked) …………………… 56 Figure 69: Forward Error Correction Window, Reed-Solomon Decoder Enabled (Checked) ……………….. 57 Figure 70: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window …………………………………………………………………………….. 57 Figure 71: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Modulation Index Scaling Mode Menu …………………….. 58 Figure 72: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Track ……………………………………….. 58 Figure 73: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Track …………………………………………………………………….. 59 Figure 74: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Hold ………………………………………… 59 Figure 75: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Hold………………………………………………………………………. 60 Figure 76: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Off …………………………………………… 60 Figure 77: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Off ………………………………………………………………………… 60 Figure 78: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Acquire…………………………………….. 61 Figure 79: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Acquire ………………………………………………………………….. 61 Figure 80: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Modulation Persistence Not Checked ……………………… 62 Figure 81: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Modulation Scale Index Current Value, Read Only……. 63 Figure 82: Mod Index Scaling Mode/Hold, Modulation Scale Index with Edit Field……………………………… 63 Figure 83: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Phase Noise Compensation Drop Down Menu…………. 63 Figure 84: System Settings Window …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 64 Figure 85: System Settings, Antenna Controls ………………………………………………………………………………. 65 Figure 86: Antenna Controls Window, HyperTrack Selection…………………………………………………………… 66 Figure 87: Antenna Controls Window, AGC Polarity Selection ………………………………………………………… 66 Figure 88: Antenna Controls Window, AGC Scale Selection …………………………………………………………… 66 Figure 89: Antenna Controls Window, AGC Time Constant Selection ………………………………………………. 67 Figure 90: Antenna Controls Window, AGC Freeze Selection …………………………………………………………. 67 Figure 91: Antenna Controls Window, AGC Zero Hold Drop Down Menu …………………………………………. 68 Figure 92: Antenna Controls Window, AM Polarity Drop Down Menu Selections ……………………………….. 69 Figure 93: Antenna Controls Window, D/C Antenna Selection Checked …………………………………………… 69 Figure 94: Output Controls Window ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 70 Figure 95: Output Controls, Clock/Data Output Channel A ……………………………………………………………… 70 Figure 96: Output Controls, Clock/Data Output Channel B ……………………………………………………………… 71 Figure 97: System Settings, Test Utilities ……………………………………………………………………………………… 72 Figure 98: Test Utilities, Noise Generator-Test Noise Drop Down Menu …………………………………………… 72 Figure 99: Test Utilities, Noise Generator-Noise Level Selection……………………………………………………… 73 Figure 100: Test Utilities, Data Generator …………………………………………………………………………………….. 73 Figure 101: Data Generator, Test Data Drop Down Menu ………………………………………………………………. 73 Figure 102: Data Generator, Data Rate Selection ………………………………………………………………………….. 74 Figure 103: Data Generator, Pattern Selection………………………………………………………………………………. 74
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Figure 104: Data Generator, Inversion Drop Down Menu ……………………………………………………………….. 74 Figure 105: Data Generator, Randomization Drop Down Menu ……………………………………………………….. 75 Figure 106: Test Utilities, BERT…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 75 Figure 107: BERT, BERT Measurement Drop Down Menu …………………………………………………………….. 76 Figure 108: BERT, ReStart BERT Button ……………………………………………………………………………………… 76 Figure 109: BERT, Pattern Drop Down Menu………………………………………………………………………………… 77 Figure 110: BERT, Type Drop Down Menu …………………………………………………………………………………… 77 Figure 111: BERT-Time, Bit, and Error Limit Selections …………………………………………………………………. 77 Figure 112: BERT, Gating Drop Down Menu…………………………………………………………………………………. 78 Figure 113: BERT, Restart on Resync Drop Down Menu ……………………………………………………………….. 78 Figure 114: Test Utilities, BERT Status ………………………………………………………………………………………… 78 Figure 115: Test Utilities, Status During BER Test …………………………………………………………………………. 79 Figure 116: Advanced Buttons, Zero AGC Button, Separate Channels or Combiner Active ………………… 80 Figure 117: Monitor Screen, Signal Strength Grey AGC Not Zero …………………………………………………. 80 Figure 118: Monitor Screen, Signal Strength Not Grey AGC Zero Value Displayed…………………………. 81 Figure 119: Signal Graph and Signal Indicators Windows, Zero AGC RSSI Display “Relative” ……………. 82 Figure 120: Advanced Buttons, Reset to Factory Defaults Button ……………………………………………………. 82 Figure 121: Advanced Buttons, Shutdown Hardware Button …………………………………………………………… 83 Figure 122: Advanced Buttons, Reboot System Button ………………………………………………………………….. 83 Figure 123: Advanced Buttons, Save Receiver Settings Button……………………………………………………….. 84 Figure 124: Presets Option on Tool Bar ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 84 Figure 125: Presets Screen ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 84 Figure 126: Presets Screen, Closeup of Left Side ………………………………………………………………………….. 85 Figure 127: Presets Screen, Closeup of Right Side ……………………………………………………………………….. 85 Figure 128: Preset: View or Modify Preset Screen …………………………………………………………………………. 86 Figure 129: Preset: View or Modify Preset Screen, Preset Name and Description Fields ……………………. 86 Figure 130: Preset: View or Modify Preset Screen, Information Successfully Saved Message …………….. 87 Figure 131: Saved Presets Screen with New Preset Added ……………………………………………………………. 88 Figure 132: Preset: View or Modify Preset Screen, Preset Name Set to Default ………………………………… 88 Figure 133: Presets Option on Tool Bar ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 89 Figure 134: Presets Screen ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 89 Figure 135: About Option on Tool Bar ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 89 Figure 136: System Information Screen ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 90 Figure 137: System Information Screen, Additional Information ………………………………………………………. 90 Figure 138: Browser Interface, About …………………………………………………………………………………………… 91 Figure 139: About, System Version, Firmware Update Link …………………………………………………………….. 91 Figure 140: Firmware Update, Procedure and Notes ……………………………………………………………………… 92
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Figure 141: Firmware Update, Upload Status………………………………………………………………………………… 93 Figure 142: Firmware Update, File Selected–Ready to Update………………………………………………………. 94 Figure 143: Firmware Update In Progress, Status………………………………………………………………………….. 94 Figure 144: Firmware Update Complete ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 95 Figure 145: About Screen, System Information ……………………………………………………………………………… 96 Figure 146: Firmware Update Failed Information Screen ………………………………………………………………… 96 Figure 147: System Information Screen, Modify Network Settings Button …………………………………………. 97 Figure 148: Network Settings Page ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 97 Figure 149: System Information Screen, Monitor Page Default Update Rate Field …………………………….. 98 Figure 150: Browser Interface Footer Tool Bar………………………………………………………………………………. 98 Figure 151: Help Screen …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 99 Figure 152: Page Access Management Screen …………………………………………………………………………….. 99 Figure 153: Page Access Error Message ……………………………………………………………………………………. 100 Figure 154: Export Configuration Screen…………………………………………………………………………………….. 100 Figure 155: Import Configuration Screen …………………………………………………………………………………….. 101 Figure 156: Import Configuration Selection Window …………………………………………………………………….. 102 Figure 157: BER Performance for Tier 0, I, and II ………………………………………………………………………… 104 Figure 158: Synchronization Time at Various Signal-to-Noise Ratios ……………………………………………… 105 Figure 159: 70 MHz IF Module in 2″ x 3″ Chassis…………………………………………………………………………. 108 Figure 160: 70 MHz IF Module in 2″ x 3″ Chassis SAW Filter Responses, Narrow Group (10 MHz Span) ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 109 Figure 161: SAW Filter Responses, Wide Group (Plotted on 100 MHz Span)………………………………….. 110 Figure 162: Optional SAW Filter Responses for 70 kHz to 6 MHz ………………………………………………….. 111 Figure 163: Optional SAW Filter Responses for 14 MHz and 28 MHz …………………………………………….. 112 Figure 164: Ideal PCM/FM Phase Tree (h = 0.7)………………………………………………………………………….. 119 Figure 165: Phase Trajectory Never Forgets ……………………………………………………………………………….. 120 Figure 166: Trellis Detection Gain with Zero to Minimum Phase Noise …………………………………………… 120 Figure 167: Trellis Detection Gain with Significant to Severe Phase Noise ……………………………………… 121 Figure 168: “Clean” Eye Pattern ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 122 Figure 169: Frame Format with SFID Insertion Enabled ……………………………………………………………….. 123 Figure 170: Firefox Options Interface …………………………………………………………………………………………. 130 Figure 171: Firefox Certificate Manager ……………………………………………………………………………………… 131 Figure 172: Firefox Downloading Certificate Window ……………………………………………………………………. 131 Figure 173: Firefox Certificate Viewer-Quasonix Root CA …………………………………………………………….. 132 Figure 174: Firefox Certificate Manager with Quasonix Root CA Added …………………………………………. 133 Figure 175: Internet Properties, Content Tab ………………………………………………………………………………. 134 Figure 176: Certificates Screen …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 135
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Figure 177: Windows Certificate Import Wizard……………………………………………………………………………. 135 Figure 178: Windows Certificate Import Wizard-Browse ……………………………………………………………….. 136 Figure 179: Windows Certificate Import Wizard- Choose Certificate Store ……………………………………….. 137 Figure 180: Certificates, Quasonix Certificate Imported ………………………………………………………………… 138
List of Tables
Table 1: Model Configuration Example …………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 Table 2: Band Configuration Codes ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Table 3: Connector Descriptions ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 Table 4: Front Panel Connector Specifications………………………………………………………………………………. 13 Table 5: Normal (Default) Video Output Signals …………………………………………………………………………….. 50 Table 6: RDMS BER Specifications ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 103 Table 7: Band Configuration Codes ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 106 Table 8: Recommended AM/AGC Settings …………………………………………………………………………………. 117 Table 9: PCM/FM Factory Reset Values …………………………………………………………………………………….. 125 Table 10: SOQPSK Factory Reset Values ………………………………………………………………………………….. 126 Table 11: Multi-h CPM Factory Reset Values ………………………………………………………………………………. 127 Table 12: QPSK Factory Reset Values……………………………………………………………………………………….. 128 Table 13: Multi-h CPM Factory Reset Values ………………………………………………………………………………. 129
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
1 Introduction
1.1 Description
This document describes the installation and operation of the Quasonix 3rd Generation Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner and is updated to match RDMSTM System Version 19.3. The RDMSTM (Receiver / DeModulator / bit Synchronizer) is designed to downconvert, demodulate, and bit synch to a variety of RF telemetry signals from flight-test aircraft. With an extensible web-based browser interface, and antenna-tracking outputs, the Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner is capable of fulfilling a variety of flight test station requirements. The following waveform formats are supported by RDMSTM:
· PCM/FM (ARTM Tier 0) · SOQPSK-TG (ARTM Tier I) · ARTM CPM / Multi-h CPM (ARTM Tier II) · Legacy (PSK) suite, which includes:
· BPSK · QPSK · Offset QPSK (OQPSK) · Asymmetric QPSK (AQPSK) · Unbalanced QPSK (UQPSK) · Asymmetric Unbalanced QPSK (AUQPSK) · Digital PM · STC · SOQPSK/LDPC · STC/LDPC Of the aforementioned, RDMSTM provides true multi- symbol trellis demodulation in all three ARTM modes, PCM/FM, SOQPSK-TG, and Multi-h PCM. It also provides a clock signal, obviating the need for any outboard bit synchronizer. Modes that support LDPC use IRIG-standard low- density parity check coding to dramatically improve link margin by up to 9 dB. The Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner is manufactured by:
Quasonix, Inc. 6025 Schumacher Park Drive
West Chester, OH 45069 CAGE code: 3CJA9
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
1.2 Nomenclature
The Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner is available in a plethora of variations based on the number of frequency bands, demodulation methods, options, etc. The features and modes installed in each unit are identified in the model number, as depicted in Figure 1.

Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Receiver-Combiner Part Numbering Example

QSX-RDMS – 3 RCD – Q 0 – 1 1 1 0 – 00 – EQ

Legacy ARTM CPM SOQPSK*
PCM/ FM

Standard Receiver/ Prefix Demodulator/ Synchronizer
Channels 3: 2 RF I/Ps, 3 bbnd O/Ps (incl. combiner)

Frequency Band Code
(Refer to band table)

Chassis RCD: Compact Receiver-Combiner

Extended Tuning: 1: Yes 0: No

Pinout

Options, separated by hyphens
(example Adaptive Equalizer)

Mode 1: Yes 0: No SOQPSK-TG SOQPSK-LDPC *SOQPSK-STC

Figure 1: Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner Part Number Construction

Specifications are subject to change. Contact Quasonix for questions regarding your specific receiver.

1.2.1 Options
The available options are listed below. Refer to section 1.2.2 for detailed descriptions of each option. Please contact Quasonix for assistance ordering receiver options.

· 14 · CS · EN · EQ · K7 · VO

14 SAW filter option (adds 70 kHz, 1.4, 3, 6, 14, and 28 MHz filters) Cybersecurity Ethernet Payload Adaptive Equalizer K7 Viterbi Decoder (k=7, rate 1/2) Analog outputs on J11, hardware option

For example, a model QSX-RDMS-3RCD-Q0-1110-00-EQ is configured as follows:

Table 1: Model Configuration Example

Identifiers

Description

QSX

Quasonix product

Receiver / Demodulator / Bit Synchronizer

DMS

Demodulator / Bit Synchronizer

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Identifiers

Description

Channels

RCD

Compact Receiver-Combiner Chassis

Frequency band code

No Extended Tuning

1110

Tier 0 present, Tier I present, Tier II present, Legacy (PSK) absent

Pinout code

Adaptive Equalizer option

1.2.2 Detailed Option Descriptions
1.2.2.1 SAW Filter Option 14 This option adds additional SAW filters, for a total of 14. Additional filters are 70 kHz, and 1.4, 3, 6, 14, and 28 MHz.
1.2.2.2 Cybersecurity CS, CS1, CS2 These options are used to address customer installation security requirements. The need for these options depends on the security requirements at the facility where the receivers will be deployed.
Contact Quasonix for additional details or for help with your particular security requirements.
1.2.2.3 Adaptive Equalizer – EQ
The Adaptive Equalizer option in the Quasonix receiver improves reception in multipath channels by using digital signal processing to compensate for the signal distortion due to multipath. This option is compatible with standard telemetry applications and installations and it works with any brand of transmitter.
Multipath fading can seriously degrade the quality of wireless telemetry data. Radio transmissions can reflect off of the airframe or other objects and arrive at the receiving antenna with different time delays, carrier phases, and relative strengths. The sum of these multiple transmission paths can produce serious distortion and signal fading resulting in poor data quality and long periods of data outage. Contrary to most situations, increasing the transmit power will not improve the link quality and may actually make the situation worse. Narrowing the beamwidth of the antenna may help eliminate some of the reflections and reduce the overall fading and distortion, but constraints on dish size and antenna tracking performance impose beamwidth limits.
Another solution is to mitigate the effects of the multipath channel by applying a filtering operation at the receiver that effectively undoes the distortion caused by the channel, thereby equalizing’ the received signal. Since the transmitter is typically moving relative to the receiver, the RF propagation environment dynamically changes over time requiring the equalizer toadapt’ to continually combat the perceived channel distortion. The `adaptive equalizer’ automatically calculates and applies a compensating filter to the received signal that restores its ability to be recovered by a traditional telemetry detector.
The EQ option is currently available for use with all modes except STC modes.

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
1.2.2.4 Viterbi Decoder (for Legacy PSK Only) – K7 The K7 option (k=7, rate 1/2) enables Viterbi decoding of a convolutionally encoded data stream, which converts it back to the original (uncoded) source data stream. Convolutional encoding is a form of legacy forward error correction. Like LDPC, it adds redundant information at the transmitting end of a telemetry link and then uses that redundancy to detect and correct errors at the receiving end of the link. Use of convolutional encoding requires a matching Viterbi decoder in the receiver to extract the source data. The decoded data rate is half the encoded data rate. The receiver has two independent decoders, one for in-phase (“I”) data and one for quadrature (“Q”) data. For BPSK, only a single decoder is used. Each decoder is compatible with the convolutional encoding described in the “Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems, Recommendation for Space Data System Standards, TM Synchronization and Channel Coding, CCSDS 131.0-B-2, Section 3.” Viterbi decoding is used to decode constraint-length (K) 7, rate I 1/2, G2-inverted convolutional-encoded data. The purpose and benefits of convolutional encoding are similar to LDPC. However, convolutional encoding requires more bandwidth than all but the lowest-rate LDPC codes, and its error-correcting performance is inferior to LDPC. Therefore, LDPC is the preferred forward error correction if possible. The Viterbi Decoder control requires the K7 option, and the RDMS must be set to one of the following PSK modes: BPSK, QPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, OQPSK, or UQPSK. Viterbi decoding and Reed- Solomon decoding can be used together or separately. 1.2.2.5 Analog Video Outputs (J11) Hardware Option VO Analog video outputs on J11 are available as a CRC option only. The default for J11 pins is unpopulated (no connection).
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

1.2.3 Band Configurations Band configuration codes are listed in Table 2. Two additional band codes are described in section 1.2.3.1.

Table 2: Band Configuration Codes

200.0 Extended

1415.0

Extended

1585.0 1650.0

Extended

1855.0 2185.0

Extended

2500.0

Extended 5250.0

400.0 Base 1150.0

1435.5 Base 1534.5

1750.0 Base 1850.0

2200.0 Base 2394.5

4400.0 Base 5150.0

Lower L

Upper L

Freq. Code A C E F G H J K L M P Q R S U W X Y Z
Legend: Frequency Gap Standard (Base) Frequency Range Extended Frequency Range (available by selecting Extended Tuning = 1 in part number)

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
1.2.3.1 Additional Band Codes Two additional band codes are available:
· Band Code 7: 70 MHz standard range, 0.075 MHz-20 MHz, 70 MHz extended range · Band Code T: 2025.0 MHz to 2110.0 MHz standard range
1.3 Package Contents
The contents of the box include the following: · Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner · 50 ohm terminators, preinstalled on IF output · MDM-25, IP Reset Default connector
A copy of the Installation and Operation manual is included with the Browser Interface software (Help option).
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

2 Specifications

Characteristic

Specification

Receiver Section

Type

Dual-conversion superheterodyne; two channels

Input RF Frequency

Refer to Table 2

Tuning resolution

Tunes in 62.5 kHz increments, to the 70 MHz IF output, after the 70 MHz IF output, receiver tunes in increments of less than 1 Hz

Frequency stability

1 ppm over temperature; 1 ppm per year aging

Reference oscillator

20 MHz

Noise figure

3.5 dB (typical), 5 dB (maximum)

LO phase noise, measured at 70 MHz IF output

-115 dBc/Hz @ 1 MHz offset

Maximum RF input

+20 dBm (+10 dBm for C-band)

Available gain (to 70 MHz IF output)

114 dB

Gain control

128 dB control range; User selectable: AGC or MGC (AGC freeze)

AGC load impedance

1 KOhm

AGC time constant

Adjustable to any value from 0.1 ms to 1000 ms

First IF bandwidth

60 MHz (nominal)

IF rejection

90 dB

Image rejection

70 dB

RF input impedance

50 ohms

VSWR

3:1 Max; 2:1 Typical

Second IF Section

IF frequency

70 MHz

IF output level, nominal (AGC mode)

Channel 1 and 2: 70 and 250 kHz bandwidths: -15 dBm

0.5 4.5 MHz bandwidths: -10 dBm

6 and 10 MHz bandwidths: -5 dBm

14 40 MHz bandwidths: -15 dBm

Combiner:

-5 dBm

IF output impedance

50 ohms

IF bandwidths

250 kHz, 500 kHz, 1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4.5 MHz, 10 MHz, 20 MHz, 40 MHz. Automatic selection based on modulation type and data rate, with manual override
Optional: 70 kHz, 1.4 MHz, 3 MHz, 6 MHz, 14 MHz, 28 MHz

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Playback Demodulator IF In, Channel 1 and 2 Section

Input Center Frequency

75 kHz 20 MHz, 70 MHz through any selectable SAW filter

Input Level

-30 dBm + 10 dB

Input Impedance

50 ohms, nominal

Demodulator Section

Demodulator type

ARTM Tier 0 (PCM/FM), ARTM Tier I (SOQPSK-TG), ARTM Tier II (Multi-h CPM)
Legacy suite: Analog FM, BPSK, QPSK, Offset QPSK (OQPSK), Asymmetric QPSK (AQPSK), Unbalanced QPSK (UQPSK), Asymmetric Unbalanced QPSK (AUQPSK), Digital PM, Space-Time Coding (STC)

Bit Rates
(after LDPC, Viterbi, Reed-Solomon, and/or PCM encoding, if applicable)

Tier 0: 24 kbps to 23 Mbps in 1 bps steps Tier I: 100 kbps to 46 Mbps in 1 bps steps Tier II: 1 Mbps to 46 Mbps in 1 bps steps STC: 5 Mbps to 22 Mbps in 1 bps steps Legacy: 25 kbps to 23 Mbps in Analog FM, 25 kbps to 23 Mbps in BPSK, 50 kbps to 46 Mbps in QPSK in 1 bps steps

Synchronization time (Average, at BER = 1e-5)

Tier 0: 250 bits, Tier I: 385 bits, Tier II: 2,800 bits

Synchronization acquisition threshold

Tier 0: -8.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -118.0 (1 Mbps), -108.0 (10 Mbps) Tier I: -6.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -116.0 (1 Mbps), -106.0 (10 Mbps) Tier II: -7.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -117.0 (1 Mbps), -107.0 (10 Mbps)

Synchronization dropout threshold

Tier 0: Tier I: Tier II:

-10.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -120.0 (1 Mbps), -110.0 (10 Mbps) -6.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -116.0 (1 Mbps), -106.0 (10 Mbps) -15.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -125.0 (1 Mbps), -115.0 (10 Mbps)

Sensitivity (BER = 1e-5)

Tier 0: 8.6 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -101.4 (1 Mbps), -91.4 (10 Mbps) Tier I: 11.2 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -98.8 (1 Mbps), -88.8 (10 Mbps) Tier II: 13.0 dB Eb/N0; RF Input (dBm): -97.0 (1 Mbps), -87.0 (10 Mbps)

Bit Synchronizer Section Input codes Output codes Data and clock out Lock detector out Derandomizer

NRZ-L/M/S, BI-L/M/S NRZ-L; or input code unaltered TTL or RS-422 TTL Standard IRIG 15-stage polynomial, selectable On/Off

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Video Section Video out (DC to 35 MHz) Video filter bandwidth Output level NTSC de-emphasis Environmental Section Operating Temperature Non-operating Temperature Operating Humidity Vibration Acceleration Shock Altitude Physical Section Size / Weight
Connectors
Power
Inrush Current

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Quad wideband outputs: Ch1 and Ch2; Dual wideband outputs, Combiner User programmable 1 Vp-p nominal, 4 Vp-p maximum Selectable Off/NTSC/PAL
-20°C to +70°C -40°C to +85°C 0 to 95% (non-condensing) 20 G, 5 Hz to 2 kHz (all axes) 100 G (all axes) 100 G pk, half-sine, 5 ms (all axes) Up to 100,000 ft.
10.31″ x 4.00″ x 1.92″ / 80 oz. RF input: SMA female IF output: SMA female Power and Ethernet: MDM-9 Analog and Data: MDM-25 28 VDC ± 4 VDC Current: 2.4 A typical, 3.5 A max at 25°C baseplate and 28 VDC 12 VDC, 3.3 A max (as measured with a Fluke i30s AC/DC current clamp)

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
3 Installation Instructions
3.1 Mechanical
The CRCTM is designed to be mounted by eighteen (18) 6-32 screws through the holes along the front and back edges, as depicted in Figure 4 on the following page. Pin assignments are listed in Table 4.
Figure 2: Mechanical Drawing Top View (Dual-channel Connectors Shown)
Figure 3: Dual Channel Compact RDMS Receiver-Combiner (CRC)
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

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Figure 4: 3rd Generation Compact RDMSTM Receiver-Combiner

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
3.2 Thermal
The storage temperature of the Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner unit is rated for -40°C to +85°C, while the operating temperature is rated for -20°C to +70°C. At maximum bit rates, the unit dissipates approximately 100 watts. The majority of that heat is conducted to the bottom surface (with unit oriented so that the lettering on the front face is viewed right side up). It is essential that the unit be mounted to a heat sink capable of dissipating the 100 watts to minimize the risk of operating (or storing) outside the ranges specified.
3.3 Electrical
3.3.1 CRC Front Panel Connections Front panel connectors are the same for all CRCs. The electrical interface connectors for all configurations are shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5: CRC Front Panel
Connector descriptions are described in Table 3. Functional descriptions and electrical characteristics for each connector for channel 1, channel 2, and combiner located on the front panel are described in Table 4.

Table 3: Connector Descriptions

Function

Part Type/Manufacturer Number

28 VDC Power

Glenair MWDM2L-9PCBRP-.150 (Plug)

Ethernet

Glenair MWDM2L-9SCBRP-.150 (Socket)

RS-422 Clock/Data Out

MWDM2L-25PCBRP-.150 (Plug)

Analog Out (Video)

MWDM2L-25PCBRP-.150 (Plug)

Digital Out (TTL Clock/Data) MWDM2L-25PCBRP-.150 (Plug)

AM/AGC/HT

MWDM2L-25PCBRP-.150 (Plug)

Control (Factory)

MWDM2L-25SCBRR2T-.150 (Socket)

Description MDM-9 Plug MDM-9 Socket MDM-25 Plug MDM-25 Plug MDM-25 Plug MDM-25 Plug MDM-25 Socket

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
3.3.2 Front Panel Connections Front panel connectors for all channels are described in Table 4.

Table 4: Front Panel Connector Specifications

Compact Receiver/Combiner

Channel 1 Channel 2 Combiner
Connector Connector Connector Receiver Nomenclature Number/pin Number/pin Number/pin

IF IN RF IN IF Out

–

28VDC Power

J8-4

28VDC Power

J8-5

28VDC Power

J8-8

28VDC Power

J8-9

28VDC Return (GND)

J8-1

28VDC Return (GND)

J8-2

28VDC Return (GND)

J8-6

28VDC Return (GND)

J8-7

Ethernet RX_p

J9-1

Ethernet RX_n

J9-6

Ethernet TX_p

J9-5

Ethernet TX_n

J9-9

RS422/Clock A_n RS422/Clock A_p RS422/Data A_n RS422/Data A_p RS422/Clock B_n RS422/Clock B_p RS422/Data B_n RS422/Data B_p
Ground

J10-1 J10-14 J10-2 J10-15 J10-3 J10-16 J10-4 J10-17 J10-13

J10-5 J10-18 J10-6 J10-19 J10-7 J10-20 J10-8 J10-21

J10-9 J10-22 J10-10 J10-23 J10-11 J10-24 J10-12 J10-25

MDM-25 50 W SMA

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Note: Analog outputs on J11 are available only as an option on the CRC.
Contact Quasonix and request option VO.

Compact Receiver/Combiner
Channel 1 Channel 2 Combiner
Connector Connector Connector Receiver Nomenclature Number/pin Number/pin Number/pin

I/VIDEO A I/VIDEO A GND
Q/VIDEO B Q/VIDEO B GND
VIDEO C VIDEO C GND
VIDEO D VIDEO D GND
Ground
TTL Clock A TTL Clock A GND
TTL Data A TTL Data A GND
TTL Clock B TTL Clock B GND
TTL Data B TTL Data B GND
Ground
TTL/HT_OUT/AM HT_OUT GND AGC AGC GND Lock Detect Sync Detect Aux Analog A Aux Analog B Ground
Power on TXD RXD TDI TCK TDO TMS 3.3V
Ground

J11-9 J11-22 J11-10 J11-23 J11-11 J11-24 J11-12 J11-25 J11-13
J12-1 J12-14 J12-2 J12-15 J12-3 J12-16 J12-4 J12-17 J12-13
J13-1 J13-14 J13-2 J13-15 J13-7 J13-8 J13-20 J13-21 J13-13
J14-20 J14-15 J14-24 J14-12 J14-8 J14-9 J14-10 J14-13 J13-1

J11-5 J11-18 J11-6 J11-19 J11-7 J11-20 J11-8 J11-21
J12-5 J12-18 J12-6 J12-19 J12-7 J12-20 J12-8 J12-21
J13-3 J13-16 J13-4 J13-17 J13-9 J13-10 J13-22 J13-23
J14-19 J14-17 J14-22 J14-6 J14-2 J14-3 J14-4 J14-7

J11-1 J11-14 J11-2 J11-15 J11-3 J11-16 J11-4 J11-17
J12-9 J12-22 J12-10 J12-23 J12-11 J12-24 J12-12 J12-25
J13-5 J13-18 J13-6 J13-19 J13-11 J13-12 J13-24 J13-25
J14-18 J14-16 J14-23 J14-21 J14-5 J14-11 J14-14 J14-25

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
3.3.3 Electrical Signals By default, the output data is valid on the falling edge of the clock, as shown in Figure 9. The polarity of the output clock may be inverted by toggling the Clock Polarity setting in its web-based browser interface (RDMSTM Browser Interface).

CLOCK
NRZL DATA

Baseband Signal Timing – 0 degree clock
Bit period (360 deg)

data=1 (MARK)

Clock jitter and data to clock skew reference point

data=0 (SPACE)

Figure 6: Baseband Signal Timing

The RF input to the receiver is a 50 ohm interface.
The CRCTM also provides a 70 MHz IF output for each channel for troubleshooting purposes. These IF outputs are capped with 50 ohm terminators, and these should be left in place unless another 50 ohm load (such as a spectrum analyzer) is connected instead.

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner IMPORTANT – Connector Notes
The 70 MHz IF output on the second SMA connector, labeled “IF OUT”, is provided for troubleshooting purposes. The IF output must have a 50 Ohm load at all times. If it is not connected to external test equipment, then the 50 Ohm terminator (metal cap) that comes installed on the port must remain attached. The IF input connector is only active if the correct part number is ordered. The metal cap on the connector upon delivery is a dust cap only and is NOT interchangeable with the 50 Ohm termination on the IF output. Do not remove dust caps unless the connector is being used.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
4 Operating Instructions
The Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner can be operated through the web-based browser interface. The browser interface is capable of configuring, maintaining, and monitoring multiple receivers within a network.
4.1 Power-on Operation
The 3rd Generation Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner contains a built-in web server. The receiver’s browser-based graphical user interface enables configuration and monitoring of one, or multiple, RDMSTM units on the user’s network. While the Browser Interface works with most modern browsers, the latest version of Firefox or Chrome is recommended. Quasonix recommends running Firefox in Private mode or disabling caching to improve performance. HTML5 compatibility is required. The Browser Interface (BI) provides easy-to- read, real-time status information to the user.
The Browser Interface is laid out intuitively with all primary control and monitoring functionality for Channel 1, Channel 2, and diversity combiner in one window.
To access the Browser Interface:
1. Plug a network cable into the CRC via the Ethernet connector. Plug the other end of the cable into either a network or PC on the same subnet as the CRC. Ensure that no other device on the network has the same IP address as the CRC.
2. Apply power to the CRC via the Power connector. Wait approximately 2-3 minutes before attempting to communicate with the CRC.
3. Open a browser on a PC on the same Ethernet network. The rack has an IP address assigned to it when the user sets it up. If it is static, the user must provide an IP address. If it is dynamic, the network assigns an IP address to the RDMSTM. The operator needs to know this IP address. The CRC has a factory default IP address of 192.168.0.1 and a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0.
4. Type the IP address into the browser as: http://XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX
where the X’s represent the IP address of the receiver. The main Browser Interface web page displays in the browser window and the user has control of the receiver.
For issues that occur during installation, call Quasonix Technical Support at 513-942-1287.
4.2 Reset IP Address to Default
The CRC has no user interface other than the Browser Interface. If the IP address of the CRC is lost or forgotten, there is no way to look up the IP address; instead, the only way to regain access to the device is by resetting the IP address to its default setting–192.168.0.1 with a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0. A custom-made MDM-25 connector is provided with the CRC for resetting the IP address to its default. Figure 7shows a picture of this connector.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 7: Custom MDM-25 IP Reset Connector The steps to reset the IP address are as follows:
1. Power on the CRC, then wait three (3) minutes for power-up initialization to complete. 2. Plug the IP Reset Connector into the Control port on the front of the CRC. 3. Wait approximately one (1) minute for the IP address to reset. 4. Attempt to connect to the default IP address (192.168.0.1/255.255.0.0) by following the steps described in
section 4.1. 5. IMPORTANT: After the IP address is reset to default and confirmed via Browser Interface connection,
remove the IP Reset Connector from the Control port. If this is left in place, the IP address will once again be reset to default. 6. Browse to the About page, and modify the network settings as described in section 5.6.2.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
5 Browser Interface
The Browser Interface provides the user with full configuration, control, and monitoring capabilities for one or multiple receivers. For configuration management purposes, only one browser interface can configure a receiver at a given time. However, multiple browser interfaces can monitor an individual receiver’s status at once. The browser interface’s monitoring capabilities include:
· Receiver settings · Signal strength · Signal quality · Signal lock detect · Combiner link status (optional Diversity Combiner feature required) · Constellation / eye pattern display · Browser Interface status The RDMSTM Browser Interface consists of a tool bar at the top of the screen, shown in Figure 8, and five selections that display a variety of parameters for each available channel. The Browser Interface defaults to the Network screen.
Figure 8: RDMSTM Browser Interface Header Tool Bar
5.1 Network Screen
The Network screen offers a quick snapshot of each rack-mount receiver, down to the channel level. The screen is comprised of a table with columns for RDMS address, Configuration Name, Channel, Frequency, Mode, Bit Rate, signal strength (S), signal quality (Q), and lock-detect status (as text and as a red or green color block). The user may access a specific unit by clicking on the Configure or Monitor button for any receiver listed. The unit to which the user is currently connected is highlighted and defaults to the top of the list. The Network screen uses a numerical representation for signal strength and signal quality. For a complete explanation, refer to section 5.4.2.5. Figure 9 shows four RDMSTM receivers. The Lock field is highlighted in green to indicate there is a signal lock. The first receiver is highlighted in blue to indicate it belongs to the user. Note the RDMS Address matches the address on the top browser tab and in the URL box. The additional receivers are on the same network but are in use by other users. Figure 10 shows a closeup of the right half of the Network screen with combiners only displayed. Figure 11 shows a closeup of the left side of the Network screen with the Configure and Monitor buttons.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 9: Network Screen with Multiple Receivers and Active Channels
Figure 10: Network Screen, Closeup of Left Side, Combiners Only
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 11: Network Screen, Closeup of Right Side
5.2 Monitor Screen
The Monitor screen may be accessed via the Monitor buttons on the Network screen, as described previously, or via the Monitor option on the Tool bar, as shown in Figure 12.
Figure 12: RDMSTM Browser Interface Tool Bar The unit information displays in the Monitor view, as shown in Figure 13.
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Figure 13: Browser Interface Monitor Screen The Monitor screen provides the user with:
· Channel selection · Basic receiver settings, such as frequency, mode, bit rate · Signal indicators, including lock detect, signal strength, signal quality, best channel, combiner link status · Graphical representations of the spectrum · Zero AGC button For user convenience, this button displays on the Monitor screen and the Configure
screen If the user is operating a single-channel receiver, only Channel 1 displays, as shown in Figure 14.
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Figure 14: Monitor Screen for RDMSTM with Only One Channel Available Additional status information, such as Frequency, Mode, and Bit Rate, is provided at the bottom of the display when the combiner is On, as shown in Figure 15, or displayed in the center of the screen between Channel 1 and Channel 2 when the combiner is Off, as shown in Figure 16.
Figure 15: Monitor Screen Partial Status Information Block when Combiner On
Figure 16: Monitor Screen Partial Status Information Block when Combiner Off
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5.2.1 Signal Graph and Signal Indicators The Signal Graph, shown in Figure 17, provides a separate window for real-time monitoring of the receiver’s constellation or eye pattern. Depending on the modulation chosen, the monitor will either display an eye pattern for PCM/FM, or a signal constellation for the other modes.

Figure 17: Signal Graph and Signal Indicators Windows
An example of a PCM/FM eye pattern is shown in Figure 18. An example of an SOQPSK constellation is shown in Figure 19.

Figure 18: Example PCM/FM Eye Pattern

Figure 19: Example SOQPSK Constellation

To the right of the Signal Graph is the Signal Indicators window, shown in Figure 20. The Signal Indicators window includes the following indicators for each receiver channel:
· Signal Strength
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· Data Quality Metric (DQM) · Signal Lock detection The waveform graphics screen displays signal strength and signal quality in vertical bar graph form, an AGC Zero indicator below the signal and quality information, and signal lock detect through a padlock icon, as shown in Figure 20.
Figure 20: Waveform Graphics with Locked SOQPSK Signal
The demodulator measures signal strength in dBm and there is no limit to what the signal strength might be. Signal strength is displayed on a dynamic bar graph and spans from -127 dBm to +50 dBm on the Browser Interface. In addition to the visual representation of signal strength, the current measurement, in dBm, is numerically displayed directly above the bar graph. The signal strength bar transitions from red at 0 dB Eb/N0 to green at 10 dB Eb/N0 and greater. The measurement of strength from an incoming telemetry signal by itself does not provide enough information about the integrity of the received data. Therefore, the Data Quality Metric (DQM) is displayed to the right of the signal strength bar, with “Q” above the graph. It transitions from red, being a zero (0) quality, to green, being a quality of 10, with 10 being the best possible quality. The DQM level is displayed at the top of the bar. A signal lock indicator provides a visual representation of the demodulator’s current lock-detect state. If the demodulator has locked onto a downconverted signal, a locked (closed) padlock displays. Conversely, if the receiver has not locked onto a signal or has recently lost lock, the indicator turns red and displays as an unlocked padlock icon. Note: The integrated Quasonix demodulator can detect and establish signal lock at very low signal levels. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see a red signal strength bar indicator accompanied with a signal lock indicator that is locked.
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The standard signal strength (RSSI) information is set on the Configuration screen via the Advanced > RSSI Display drop down menu (next to the Zero AGC button). Refer to section 5.4.16. If “Absolute” was the RSSI Display selection, the actual signal strength is displayed. If “Relative” was selected, the RSSI displayed is relative to AGC Zero. The following bullets apply to RSSI Relative:
· A value of zero indicates no input signal · A value above zero indicates how strong the signal is above no input · “*** dBm” displayed (Figure 21) indicates AGC is not zeroed and the value is invalid · Small “r” displayed next to the Signal Strength label indicates AGC Zero Relative was selected
Figure 21: Signal Graph and Signal Indicators Windows, Zero AGC RSSI Display “Relative” 5.2.2 Spectrum Graph Each channel display provides a real-time power spectral density (PSD) plot as it might display on a spectrum analyzer. An example is shown in Figure 22.
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Figure 22: Power Spectral Density Plot Window 5.2.3 Diversity Combiner If the optional diversity combiner is installed and enabled between two channels, then a Best Channel Source image and a DQM graph display in the area between the two channels on the Monitor. The Diversity Combiner with a signal lock is shown in Figure 23.
Figure 23: Diversity Combiner Link with Locked Signal If diversity combiner is On, any changes made to one channel will be copied to the other channel so that both channels are synchronized. If diversity combiner is Off, each channel is separate and setting one channel does not copy settings to the other channel.
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If the Combiner is On and Frequency Diversity On is selected, the frequency for Channel 2 may be set differently from Channel 1. Best Channel Selector (BCS) status is only displayed with the Combiner option enabled and set to On. This status displays at the bottom of the combiner signal indicator window. When the Combiner is On, the Zero AGC button displays under the DQM graph. 5.2.3.1 Best Channel Selector Status Best Channel Selector status is only displayed with the Combiner option enabled and set to On. This status displays in the right-hand side of the combiner signal indicator window, to the left of the combiner Signal Quality (Q) status, as shown in Figure 24.
Figure 24: Best Channel Indicator Example
Two status items display for the BCS. First, BCS Signal Quality is indicated with a color-coded bar that indicates the data quality for the presently selected channel. Numerical data quality is shown above the bar. This indicator works just like the Combiner Signal Quality to the right of it. Second, BCS channel selection is shown below the BCS Signal Quality bar. Each demodulated signal (Channel 1, Combiner, and Channel 2) is represented by a character in the BCS status display (1′,C’, and `2′ respectively). The color of each character designates the current state of that channel in the best-channel selection process:
· Bright green Best signal; this signal has the highest data quality of all correlating signals, and its quality is directly reflected in the BCS quality bar
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· Green Good signal; this signal correlates sufficiently to the best signal to participate in bestchannel selection, but its data quality is not highest
· Red Bad signal; this signal does not correlate sufficiently to the best signal to participate in bestchannel selection
· Grey Disabled signal; the BCS is set to Off The preceding descriptions may seem to imply a static state for each channel. In reality, channel dynamics including noise, may cause fairly rapid changes in BCS state. The BCS indicator shows a snapshot of the current status multiple times per second, but may not reflect every state transition in a highly dynamic environment. In addition, Signal Quality updates are not necessarily synchronized. Thus, as channel conditions change, there may be brief times when Combiner data quality appears to exceed BCS data quality. On average, BCS data quality will always equal, or exceed, Combiner (and Channel 1 and Channel 2) data quality. In general, the Combiner is expected to be the best channel. However, many conditions may lead to selection of Channel 1 or Channel 2 as the best channel. One common condition is multipath. Another common–and less intuitive–condition is absence of any signal impairment. In this case, all channels have essentially “perfect” signal quality, so the BCS cannot distinguish one that is “best” and will simply stick with its current selection until something changes. Similarly, if no signal is present, the BCS may pick any channel as “best” though none are good. When the BCS status display indicates the Combiner is the best signal, the BCS and Combiner Signal Quality bars indicate equal quality for the BCS and for the Combiner. When the BCS status display indicates Channel 1 or Channel 2 is the best signal, the BCS Signal Quality bar indicates better data quality for the BCS than for the Combiner. This difference highlights the improvement provided by the BCS relative to Combiner data alone. Figure 25 illustrates a good signal for Channel 1 and Channel 2, with the best signal being selected from the Combiner.
Figure 25: Best Channel Indicator-Combiner
Figure 26 illustrates a good signal for the Combiner and Channel 2, with the best signal being selected from Channel 1. This is an example of all channels being essentially “perfect.”
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Figure 26: Best Channel Indicator-Ch 1 Figure 27 illustrates a bad signal for Channel 1, a good signal for the Combiner, with the best signal being selected from Channel 2. This can happen if one received signal is so much better than the other that the combined signal is composed of essentially 100% of the better signal and 0% of the worse signal.
Figure 27: Best Channel Indicator-Ch 2 Figure 28 illustrates severe equalized multipath for Channel 1 and moderate equalized multipath for Channel 2. Note in this case the Combiner data quality is slightly better than Channel 1, but Channel 2 data quality is much better than the Combiner. In this case, the BCS selects Channel 2, as shown by the circled BCS selection indicator and BCS data quality of 10. Without the BCS, the Combiner output data quality would be less than 6.
Figure 28: Best Channel Data Quality Better than Combiner Data Quality
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Figure 29 illustrates BCS Off.

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Figure 29: Best Channel Indicator Off (Grey)
5.2.4 Monitor Selective Display Options The down arrow next to the Monitor option on the Menu Bar, shown in Figure 30, enables selection of specific items to monitor while reducing bandwidth requirements. The user may view:
· Full Monitor screen · Eye pattern or Constellation only · PSD (spectrum display) only · Combiner display only Examples of each display type are shown in the following figures.

Figure 30: Monitor Display Menu
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Figure 31: Monitor Full Display (Default)
Figure 32: Monitor Eye Pattern/Constellation Display Only
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Figure 33: Monitor PSD (Spectrum) Only
Figure 34: Monitor Combiner Display Only 5.2.5 Client Level Update Rate Users may override the receiver level update rate temporarily. The Update Rate buttons at the bottom of the Monitor screen are used to change in increments between low, medium, and high. The user may press the Stop button to temporarily pause the screen transmission. This has the effect of taking a snapshot in time (freezing the page) and is useful to more closely evaluate details, such as a spectrum curve. Network bandwidth usage is roughly halved as you progress through each setting from High to Low. High is the as-shipped default setting. The receiver continues normal operation if the Monitor screen is temporarily stopped.
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Navigation away from the screen and back does not change the setting, however, a refresh or reload of the screen automatically resets the frame rate to the default. For information about setting the default update rate, refer to Monitor Page Default Update Rate on the About screen, section 5.6.3.
Figure 35: Monitor Combiner Display Only
5.3 Configure Screen
The Configure screen may be accessed via the Configure buttons on the Network screen, as described previously, or via the Configure option on the Header Tool bar, as shown in Figure 36.
Figure 36: RDMSTM Browser Interface Header Tool Bar All changes to configuration parameters are highlighted in green until the Send Settings or Refresh buttons are activated. This is a visual reminder that something has changed.
5.4 Combiner
A pre-detection diversity combiner is a standard feature in all dual-channel compact receiver-combiners. Diversity combining can be enabled by clicking on the check box in the Combiner field, as shown in Figure 37.
Figure 37: Configure Screen, Combiner Section When the combiner is enabled on one channel, the second channel will automatically reflect this change.
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Additionally, any parameter changes made by the user in one channel will automatically be made for the second channel, from which the combined signal is partially derived. The only setting that can still be changed individually when the diversity combiner is turned on is the channel frequency, which allows for frequency diversity to be implemented. To illustrate the synchronization of settings, the second channel’s settings menu highlight bar will mimic the navigation path being taken by the user in the first channel. Note: Whenever the Diversity Combiner is On, any changes made to the Frequency option (even with Frequency Diversity On enabled) causes Modulation Scaling for both channels to be set to the same value. However, if Mod Scaling was set to Locked when the Frequency was changed, Mod Scaling will change to Tracking. 5.4.1.1 Frequency Diversity The Frequency Diversity option allows the user to independently change the frequency of each channel when the diversity combiner is On. Click on the check box in the Frequency Diversity field to enable. If there are two channels, the Combiner is set to On, and Frequency Diversity is Off, the channels are updated simultaneously. 5.4.2 Channel Selection and Basic Settings The user may view channel displays and the Diversity Combiner display on the Configure screen in the Browser Interface. If the Combiner is On, only Channel 1 displays (Figure 38). Click on any field within the Configure screen to change and save settings for Channel 1, Channel 2, or both channels (Figure 39).
Figure 38: Configuration Screen with Combiner On, Channel 1 Displays
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Figure 39: Configuration Screen with Combiner Off, Channel 1 and Channel 2 Display The Configure screen includes all of the primary settings related to the receiver, including Frequency, Mode, Bit Rate, Data and Clock Polarity, Equalizer, DQ Encapsulation, and Derandomizer. The Power Ratio control is available for UQPSK mode only. A selection box displays below the Bit Rate option in UQPSK mode. Refer to section 5.4.2.1 for specific information about Power Ratio. Refer to section 5.4.2.2 for specific information about AQPSK mode. Note: The Equalizer is currently available for use with all modes except STC mode.
Figure 40: Configure Basic Settings Window-PCM/FM Mode
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The settings can be adjusted by clicking on a check box (to enable or disable an option), clicking on a drop down menu and making a selection, or, in the case of Frequency and Bit Rate, typing the number directly or using up/down scroll arrows to select the desired value. To save the current configuration as a preset, click on the Save as a Preset button, or click on the Refresh button to refresh the settings without saving. To create or modify other presets, use the Browser Interface Presets screen. When selecting new settings on the Browser Interface Configure screen, these settings are not sent to the receiver and activated until the user clicks on the Save Presets button. New options are provided to the user when certain options are selected, for example, Frequency Diversity and Time Aligner are only available after Combiner is enabled and saved. Then other options may be changed and saved. The Browser Interface alerts the user whenever a Save or Refresh is required. When a Save is necessary, the Send Settings button changes color (from green to gold), and a Save Changes message displays in the message area on the right side of the screen, as shown in Figure 41. Other notifications display in red text on the right side.
Figure 41: Configure Screen, Messages and Alerts
5.4.2.1 Power Ratio (UQPSK Mode Only) To properly distinguish the in-phase (I) component from the quadrature-phase (Q) component in a modulated UQPSK signal, the demodulator requires knowledge of the ratio of power between the two components. This degree of unbalance is specified in dB. For example, if the I component has four (4) times the power of the Q component, the power ratio will be 10log10(4/1) = 6 dB. If the I component has lower power than the Q component, this setting will be negative. For example, if the I component has 1/5 the power of the Q component, the power ratio will be 10log10(1/5) = -7 dB. Note that small power ratios, between -3 dB and +3 dB, may be difficult for the demodulator to reliably distinguish. 5.4.2.2 AQPSK Mode AQPSK mode results in two independent bit streams out of the RDMS. The I data is available on the normal clock and data outputs, but the Q data is only available on an MDM connector. Refer to Table 4 for connector/pin information for I data outputs (Clock A and Data A) and Q data outputs (Clock B and Data B). When AQPSK mode is selected, the Configure Basic Settings Window shows two bit rates (Bit Rate and Bit Rate B), as shown in Figure 42.
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Figure 42: Configure Basic Settings Window AQPSK Mode, Two Bit Rates
5.4.2.3 Playback Demodulator The Playback Demodulator function allows the RDMSTM to demodulate signals from a previous mission recorded by an Intermediate Frequency (IF) Recorder. This approach has several possible advantages, including superior trellis demodulation capability relative to other receivers that may have been utilized for the original mission, and the ability to replay the mission multiple times with different settings to obtain the best achievable results. When the RDMSTM Frequency is set to 75 kHz to 20 MHz, or 70 MHz with a selectable SAW filter (which is well below the standard 200.0 MHz-5250.0 MHz range), the RF downconverter is bypassed and demodulator IF input comes from the IF Input BNC instead. From this input, it is SAW filtered according to the IF Filter setting and demodulated as if it had been received by the RF front end. Accordingly, all demodulator-related settings will affect the performance of the demodulation process. Note, the combiner does not work for playback below 70 MHz. The normal gain control provided by the RF front end AGC is unavailable when using the receiver as a playback demodulator. Some IF input gain compensation is available, but the input signal must be within the range -30 dBm + 10 dB to obtain optimal performance. Mod scaling Acquisition mode (the default) accurately determines the modulation index of a signal in the presence of additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). While AWGN is always present to some extent when the RF front end is in use, it may not be present when the signal comes directly from the IF input, at least until the playback signal is applied to the demodulator input. There are a few possible approaches to ensure proper demodulation of PCM/FM signals in playback demodulation:
· If the modulation index is known to be 0.7 (e.g., the recorded source was taken from a digital transmitter), set Mod Scale to Off.
· If there is time for a manual operation after the start of playback, set Mod Scale to Off prior to playback and switch Mod Scale to Acquire after starting playback.
· If the modulation index is not 0.7 and acquisition during playback is not feasible, set Mod Scale to Tracking.
5.4.2.4 Data and Clock Polarity Settings The Data Polarity and Clock Polarity are set by clicking on drop down arrow to display the menu, then selecting the desired option, Normal or Inverted, as shown in the Data Polarity example in Figure 43.
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Figure 43: Settings Window, Data Polarity Selection
5.4.2.5 Data Quality Encapsulation (DQE) Data Quality Encapsulation is the process of bundling data quality information along with payload data. This information is intended for use by a Best Source Selector (BSS) to optimally select correct payload data bits from amongst multiple streams of potentially errored payload data. Note that optimal performance can only be achieved if all sources of input to the BSS have independent errors; that is, related sources of data like Channel 1, Channel 2, and Combiner from a single receiver should not be presented to the BSS simultaneously. Data quality is encoded as a Data Quality Metric (DQM). When calibrated per a standardized procedure, DQM based on bit error probability (BEP) allows DQE from multiple vendors to interoperate. The Quasonix DQM is based on statistics developed deep inside the demodulator. Bit Error Probability (BEP) is the calculated likelihood that a bit is in error. A very low BEP can be determined from only a few bits. BEP does not require any known data and can be determined quickly and accurately from demodulator statistics. It is an unbiased quality metric, regardless of channel impairments. The DQM is calculated directly from BEP. The basic DQM calibration fixture is described in the following steps and illustrated in Figure 44.
1. Input corrupted data (with clock) 2. Extract the frame sync word 3. Measure the BER of payload data 4. Compare DQM (converted to BEP) to measured BER and record/store on a packet by packet basis 5. Post process BEP and BER to develop score
Figure 44: DQM Calibration Fixture Process
The DQE format includes a header consisting of the following:
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· 16-bit sync pattern (0xFAC4) MSB first: 1111101011000100
· 16-bit ID word (format TBD) · 16-bit DQM = min(round(-log10(LR) / 12
(2^16)), 2^16 -1) 16-bit unsigned integer, ranges from 0 to 65,535 Likelihood Ratio (LR) = BEP / (1-BEP) Easily reversed:
LR = 10^(-12 DQM / 2^16) BEP = LR / (1 + LR) Q is defined as the “User’s DQM”: Q = 12 * DQM / 65536 Represents the exponent of 10 in the LR, which approximates the BEP Examples: Q = 3 BEP = 1E-3 Q = 7 BEP = 1E-7

BEP

DQM Q

0.5

1.00

0 0.00

1E-01 1.11111E-01 5211 0.95

1E-02 1.01010E-02 10899 2.00

1E-03 1.00100E-03 16382 3.00

1E-04 1.00010E-04 21845 4.00

1E-05 1.00001E-05 27307 5.00

1E-06 1.00000E-06 32768 6.00

1E-07 1.00000E-07 38229 7.00

1E-08 1.00000E-08 43691 8.00

1E-09 1.00000E-09 49152 9.00

1E-10 1.00000E-10 54613 10.00

1E-11 1.00000E-11 60075 11.00

1E-12 1.00000E-12 65535 12.00

Figure 45: DQE Format

Payload data is a user selectable length with a default of 4096 bits, with the exception of STC mode, where the default is 3200 bits, and SOQPSK/LDPC or STC/LDPC mode, where the default is the selected LDPC block size.
With a payload data length of 4096 bits, the network bandwidth expansion is ~1%.
DQM accuracy is verified under various channel impairments including AWGN- static level, AWGN-dynamic level (step response), dropouts, in-band and adjacent channel interference, phase noise, timing jitter, static multipath, and dynamic multipath (similar to break frequency).
To change the DQE, go to the Configure Basic Settings window, then click on the check box next to DQ Encapsulation. The parameter options are Enable (checked) or Disable (unchecked). The default is Disabled (unchecked).

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Figure 46: Configure Basic Settings Window, DQ Encapsulation Checked Note: When DQE is enabled, normal bit error rate measurements cannot be made on the output data stream. The DQM is displayed as Signal Quality on the Monitor screen, with a color-coded bar and a number above it (010). 5.4.2.6 Derandomizer Settings The Derandomizer defaults to Off. Click on the drop down arrow to display the menu, then select the desired option (Figure 47). The standard running mode for non-LDPC operation is IRIG. The CCSDS option is only available when an LDPC Mode is enabled (SOQPSKLDPC or STCLDPC) or when Reed- Solomon decoding is enabled.
· IRIG Derandomizes data randomized using the IRIG 15-stage randomizer · CCSDS Derandomizes data randomized using the CCSDS 8-stage block synchronous randomizer
Figure 47: Settings Window, Derandomizer Drop Down Menu
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5.4.2.7 Differential Decoding Settings (SOQPSK Only) The Differential Decoding option is set to On or Off by clicking on the check box (Figure 48) to enable or disable the differential decoding. Differential Decoding defaults to enabled. Differential decoding is available in all PSK modes (SOQPSK and legacy BPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, and UQPSK). Legacy modes often use differential forms of PCM encoding (e.g., NRZ-M) instead, and only one or the other form of differential encoding should be used at a time. In SOQPSK-TG mode, differential encoding and decoding eliminates the phase ambiguity inherent with the received data. The differential decoder can be enabled or disabled through the Main Menu by pressing Enter when the parameter is selected. The Enter key acts as a toggle switch. Normal SOQPSK operation requires the differential decoder to be On. The default value is On. Differential encoding results in two differentially-decoded bit errors for each received bit error. This doubling negatively impacts subsequent error- correction capability for block forward error correction. Since the Attached Sync Marker used to identify block boundaries can also be used to resolve the phase ambiguity inherent in PSK modulation, differential encoding is unnecessary for block forward error correction. Therefore, differential decoding is automatically disabled when Reed-Solomon encoding is enabled.
Figure 48: Configure Basic Settings Window-SOQPSK Mode
5.4.3 Configure Advanced Settings The Configure screen also includes a secondary window for Advanced Settings. These include Measured Bit Rate, IF Filter, Output Muting, Muting Timeout, AFC Mode, Best Channel Selector, Time Aligner, and PCM Encoding, as shown in Figure 49. Additionally, the Advanced Settings window shows Video Output parameters, Channel A and Channel B Output, Channel A and Channel B Scale, Tape Output Frequency, and FM De-emphasis (when in PCM/FM mode).
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Figure 49: Advanced Settings Window
5.4.3.1 Measured Bit Rate Setting Measured Bit Rate displays the receiver’s bit rate on the input signal. This value may be copied and set as the specified bit rate. The purpose of this process is to eliminate unintended bit rate offset error so that the receiver can make full use of its bit synchronizer tracking range, or optionally reduce its tracking range. For the receiver to have an accurate measurement, however, the input signal must be close enough to the previously commanded bit rate to be within the current bit synchronizer lock range and actually be locked. 5.4.3.2 IF Filter Based on the receiver’s high level of integration, the proper IF filter is automatically selected based on the current mode and bit rate settings of the demodulator. Although manual filter selection is available through the IF Filter Menu, manual selection is not recommended. In the case of a receiver with diversity combining enabled, the two channels must have the same IF filter selected for proper operation. The basic premise of trellis demodulation relies on the precise phase modulation of the transmitted signal. Some older analog transmitters have an inordinate amount of phase noise, reducing the effectiveness of the trellis demodulator. In Tier 0 (PCM/FM), enabling the Phase Noise Compensation option relaxes the requirements of the trellis demodulator, allowing better receive performance for transmitters with a high degree of phase noise. When the modulation is set to PCM/FM, the Filter Settings window includes settings for IF and Phase Noise Compensation. In any other mode, only the IF Filter option is available.
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Figure 50: Advanced Settings Window, IF Filter Menu
5.4.3.3 Output Muting The Output Muting option sets the muting value to On or Off. When Output Muting is set to On, the receiver stops sending clock and data information when the timeout value is reached. This option is beneficial to someone using a recorder with limited space. For example, if data is not locked to a valid signal or is outside the valid range, the information is muted (stopped) so the recorder is not filled with bad data. 5.4.3.4 Muting Timeout The Muting Timeout option is used to set a timeout value (in milliseconds). This setting is used to determine when to mute (stop sending data) when the Output Muting option is set to On. The valid range is 0 to 46016 milliseconds. The default value is 1000. 5.4.3.5 AFC Mode The AFC (Automatic Frequency Control) Mode option, shown in Figure 51, compensates for frequency offset in the received signal relative to the expected carrier frequency. Demodulators for all modes in the RDMSTM contain frequency-tracking loops that can accommodate some amount of frequency offset. The amount of offset that can be tolerated depends on the mode and is generally a small percentage of the bit rate. If the input frequency offset is greater than this amount, then AFC is needed to make up the difference. The two main sources of offset are (1) reference oscillator frequency differences between the transmitter and the receiver, and (2) Doppler shift. Reference oscillator differences are constant or very slowly time-varying. Doppler shift, by its nature, tends to be dynamic. The optimal AFC mode depends on the source and magnitude of the frequency offset. Valid selections are Off, Hold, and Track. In general, Quasonix recommends setting the AFC Mode to Off, if possible.
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Note that the AFC is automatically overridden (Off) if the demodulator can natively tolerate at least 50 kHz of frequency offset. This prevents the AFC from potentially interfering with frequency tracking if AFC is unlikely to be needed. Override may be disabled, and many other detailed AFC parameters may be controlled, via the command line interface. Refer to the RDMSTM Access via Telnet and Serial Control Protocol Technical Guide for AFC command details.
Figure 51: Advanced Settings Window, AFC Mode Menu
5.4.3.5.1 AFC Mode Track When AFC Mode is set to Track, the AFC continuously attempts to estimate and compensate for the input frequency offset unless the input Eb/N0 falls below a predefined threshold. This mode is best suited for dynamic frequency offsets. 5.4.3.5.2 AFC Mode Hold When AFC Mode is set to Hold, the AFC holds its current compensation. This mode is best suited for static frequency offsets. It may be advantageous relative to the Acquire mode if the channel is initially “known good” but may become impaired during a mission. 5.4.3.5.3 AFC Mode Off When AFC Mode is set to Off, the AFC continuously provides zero compensation. This mode is best suited for small frequency offsets that are within the amount of frequency offset that the demodulator can natively tolerate. 5.4.3.6 Best Channel Selector The Best Channel Selector option sets the Best Channel Selector value to On or Off. When this option is checked (On), the combiner data output selects the best channel (1, 2, or Combiner) based on DQM.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 52: Advanced Settings Window, Best Channel Selector Checked The Best- Channel Selector (BCS) is a revolutionary new feature, unique to the Quasonix RDMSTM. Its purpose is to ensure that the back-panel data output from the Combiner is always optimal, even in rare cases where the PreDetection Diversity Combiner struggles relative to Channel 1 and Channel 2. Normally, the Pre-Detection Diversity Combiner adds weighted copies of the Channel 1 and Channel 2 received signals to synthesize an improved combined signal. If the only impairment is noise (e.g., the test article is approaching maximum range), this combined signal is optimal, and provides 3 dB signal-to-noise improvement over Channel 1 and Channel 2 individually. However, other impairments may cause the Channel 1 and Channel 2 signals to be uncombinable or to produce a suboptimal combined signal. One simple example is frequency diversity with different multipath on Channel 1 and Channel 2. If the signal- tonoise ratio is equal on both received channels, the combined signal will be composed of half of each. This summed signal has half the amplitude of unintended reflections, but twice as many. The increased number of reflections can degrade demodulation performance, which may result in a higher bit error rate from the Combiner data output compared to the Channel 1 and Channel 2 data outputs. The BCS solves this problem by selecting the best output data from Channel 1, Channel 2, and the Combiner on a bit-by-bit basis. The back- panel data output from the Combiner comes from the BCS whenever it is enabled, as shown in the system block diagram in Figure 53.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 53: System Block Diagram with Best Channel Selector This process yields optimal data output on a single connector under all conditions. The only penalty for this performance improvement is increased processing latency in the RDMSTM, approximately equal to one DQE frame. Refer to section 5.4.2.5 for details about DQE. When the BCS is disabled, the back-panel data output from the Combiner comes from the Diversity Combiner demodulator, as it traditionally has. Another unique advantage of the BCS is that its output can be encapsulated using IRIG-standard Data Quality Encapsulation (DQE) for use by an external Best-Source Selector (BSS). This capability allows spatial diversity across a vast range with a minimal number of BSS channels and attendant bandwidth. Further, since the BCS need only accommodate relatively miniscule latency differences between its inputs, its local performance may exceed that of a BSS designed to handle several seconds of time delay between channels. Driving an external BSS with several RDMSTM BCS outputs leverages the strengths of both. 5.4.3.7 Time Aligner The Time Aligner option is only available with the Combiner option enabled and set to On. The Time Aligner can be disabled or enabled. When disabled, it remains Off and does not affect the combiner. Clicking on the check box to enable the (combiner) time aligner, as shown in Figure 54, lets it determine when to operate (with no user intervention).
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Figure 54: Advanced Settings Window, Time Aligner Selection Checked

Maximal ratio combining can only achieve optimal performance if the Channel 1 and Channel 2 input signals are accurately phase- and time-aligned. Traditionally, diversity combiners have performed phase alignment only, relying on the telemetry system design to provide adequate time alignment.

However, there are cases in which time alignment cannot be easily guaranteed. Such cases include frequency diversity and spatial diversity, where the propagation of transmit and receive paths for Channel 1 and Channel 2 may be quite different through cables, equipment, and the air. As bit rates continue to increase, fixed latency differences are magnified in relation to the bit period.

The Quasonix RDMSTM Combiner can perform both phase alignment and time alignment of the Channel 1 and Channel 2 signals. The Time Aligner is capable of correcting up to ±1300 nanoseconds of time skew between channels (about a quarter mile of free-space propagation). Similar to phase alignment, time alignment is dynamic, accommodating changes in relative target antenna positions over time.
When enabled, the Time Aligner continuously measures skew between channels but remains in a “monitor” state (with no timing correction) as long as the skew remains below a predefined threshold. When the skew exceeds the threshold, the Time Aligner switches to a “run” state (with full timing correction) as long as the signal quality is sufficient for it to continue to track timing skew.

If the propagation delay between channels is well-controlled and small, the Time Aligner may be disabled to guarantee minimal timing jitter.

5.4.4 PCM Encoding
The PCM Encoding setting controls the RDMS receiver output PCM data format. Two primary options are available: the receiver can convert encoded data to NRZ-L, or it can preserve transmit encoding.

The first option allows conversion of any of the following encoding formats to NRZ-L:

· NRZ-L: Non-return-to-zero, level · Biphase-S: Bi, space

· NRZ-M: Non-return-to-zero, mark · DM-M: Delay modulation (Miller code), mark

· NRZ-S: Non-return-to-zero, space · DM-S: Delay modulation (Miller code), space

· RZ: Return-to-zero

· M2-M: Modified delay modulation (Miller squared code), mark

· Biphase-L: Bi, level

· M2-S: Delay modified modulation (Miller squared code), space

· Biphase-M: Bi, mark

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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
The second option allows the transmit encoding to be preserved and output from the RDMS unaltered. To accomplish this, PCM Encoding must be set to NRZ-L regardless of the actual transmit encoding. Also, for encoding formats that use di-bits to represent each user bit (i.e., RZ, Bi, DM, or M2), the RDMS bit rate must be set to twice the user bit rate. Note that the RDMS output clock will clock at twice the user bit rate in this configuration. Select the desired encoding format from the drop down menu, as shown in Figure 55.
Figure 55: Advanced Settings Window, PCM Encoding Drop Down Menu 5.4.5 Channel A Video Output The Channel A Video Output option, shown in Figure 56, selects what signal appears on the I/Video A output: Normal, Tape Out, or Carrier Only. The Normal output depends on the selected Mode, as shown in Table 5. Tape Out outputs the Pre-D signal, and Carrier Only outputs an unmodulated carrier; either of these will be output at the carrier frequency selected by Tape Out Freq (MHz).
Figure 56: Advanced Settings Window, Channel A Video Output Drop Down Menu
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

Table 5: Normal (Default) Video Output Signals

Mode

I/Video A

Q/Video B

PCM/FM

Eye Pattern

Unused (0 Volts)

SOQPSK, SOQPSK/LDPC Noncoherent I/Q Baseband Noncoherent I/Q Baseband

MHCPM

Noncoherent I/Q Baseband Noncoherent I/Q Baseband

BPSK

I Baseband

Unused

QPSK, OQPSK, AQPSK, I Baseband UQPSK, AUQPSK

Q Baseband

DPM

I Baseband

Unused

5.4.6 Channel B Video Output
The Channel B Video Output option, shown in Figure 57, selects what signal appears on the Q/Video B output: Normal, Tape Out, or Carrier Only. The Normal output depends on the selected Mode, as shown in Table 5. Tape Out outputs the Pre-D signal, and Carrier Only outputs an unmodulated carrier; either of these will be output at the carrier frequency selected by Tape Out Freq (MHz).

Figure 57: Advanced Settings Window, Channel B Video Output Drop Down Menu 5.4.7 Channel A Video Scale The Channel A Video Scale option, shown in Figure 58, adjusts the peak-to-peak amplitude on the I/Video A output. By default the video output is 1.0000 V peak-to-peak using a standard deviated NTSC video signal. This setting allows the user to compensate for a system where this is not the case.
Figure 58: Advanced Settings Window, Channel A Video Scale
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
5.4.8 Channel B Video Scale The Channel B Video Scale option, shown in Figure 59, adjusts the peak-to-peak amplitude on the Q/Video B output. By default the video output is 1.0000 V peak-to-peak using a standard deviated NTSC video signal. This setting allows the user to compensate for a system where this is not the case.
Figure 59: Advanced Settings Window, Channel B Video Scale
5.4.9 Tape Output Frequency The Tape Out Frequency option, shown in Figure 60, sets the carrier frequency for any video output that is set to Tape Output or Carrier Only. The frequency may be selected from a standard set of values. Alternatively, any frequency up to 46.666 MHz may be entered as a custom frequency. Note, however, that frequencies above 30 MHz will experience filter roll-off and may not be useful.
Figure 60: Advanced Settings Window, Tape Output Frequency
5.4.10 FM De-emphasis (PCM/FM Mode Only) The FM De-emphasis option, shown in Figure 61, is used to set the FM De-emphasis value to NTSC, PAL, or Off. This option should be used when a corresponding video pre-emphasis filter is used on the video transmit side.
Figure 61: Advanced Settings Window, FM De-emphasis
5.4.11 Forward Error Correction Forward Error Correction (FEC) may be accomplished by using Low-Density Parity Check (LDPC) encoding, in SOQPSK or STC modes, as shown in Figure 63 and in Figure 64, or by using Convolutional encoding/Viterbi decoding, and/or Reed Solomon encoding in legacy PSK modes (BPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, or UQPSK), as shown in Figure 62.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
All of these forms of FEC are discussed in detail in the associated sections: LDPC in section 5.4.11.1, Viterbi Decoder in section 5.4.11.2, Convolutional Symbol in section 5.4.11.3, Reed-Solomon Decoder in section 5.4.11.4, and Interleave Depth in section 5.4.11.5. The Viterbi decoder and Reed-Solomon decoder can be disabled or enabled by clicking on the appropriate check box while a legacy PSK mode is selected (BPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, or UQPSK). Likewise, the Convolutional Symbol setting for Viterbi decoding can be disabled or enabled by clicking on its check box. Interleave depth for Reed- Solomon decoding may be changed by typing in the desired number, or by using the up/down arrows to scroll to the desired setting.
Figure 62: Forward Error Correction Window when in a PSK Mode
5.4.11.1 LDPC Mode (SOQPSKLDPC or STCLDPC Modes Only) Low-Density Parity Check (LDPC) encoding is a form of forward error correction. It works by adding redundant information at the transmitting end of a telemetry link and then using that redundancy to detect and correct errors at the receiving end of the link. Details of LDPC coding are presented in IRIG 106-17 Appendix 2-D. LDPC encoding can have many benefits. Its most common use is in range extension, where bit errors occur due to a weak received signal. LDPC can improve the point at which errors start to occur by over 9 dB. This increase in link margin is equivalent to almost tripling the operating distance of the telemetry link. Another application is error suppression–for links like compressed video that suffer major degradation due to small numbers of errored bits. LDPC has such a steep bit error rate curve that it converts the channel into essentially binary performance– perfection or highly errored. Since perfection is achieved deep into the area where occasional bit errors would normally occur, compressed video performance is greatly enhanced. Ultimately, any channel that can benefit from error reduction and has bandwidth available will likely benefit from LDPC encoding. The IRIG standard calls out six variants of LDPC codes–all combinations of two different information block sizes (k=4096 bits and k=1024 bits) and three different code rates (r=1/2, r=2/3, and r=4/5), as shown in Figure 63. The larger block size offers better decoding performance in a static channel but may work less well in a dynamic channel with fast fading or other impairments. Lower code rates also provide better decoding performance at the cost of increased occupied bandwidth. The optimal code choice for any application may require empirical testing to determine.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner

LDPC decoding is only available for SOQPSK-TG and STC modulations. When in SOQPSK/LDPC or STC/LDPC mode, the appropriate code (k, r) must be selected for proper operation. Also, in these modes only, the user may select between no derandomization, standard IRIG derandomization as specified in IRIG 106-17 Annex A-2, or CCSDS derandomization as specified in IRIG 106-17 Appendix 2-D. Again, the derandomization selection must match the encoding selected at the transmitting end for proper operation.

SOQPSK/LDPC uses trellis demodulation. Trellis bit error rate performance in pure additive noise is slightly better than single-symbol bit error rate performance, as shown in IRIG 106-17, Figures D-10 and D-11. Trellis synchronization under adverse conditions may be significantly faster than single-symbol synchronization.

LDPC encoding is intended to improve performance specifically under harsh conditions, which might have a negative effect on AFC tracking. In general, Quasonix recommends setting the AFC Mode to Off if possible. This recommendation is especially important for the best LDPC performance. Refer to section 5.4.3.5 for more information about AFC Mode.

Available LDPC Mode options are:

k = 4096, r = 1/2

k = 1024, r = 2/3

k = 1024, r = 1/2

k = 4096, r = 4/5

k = 4096, r 2/3

k = 1024, r = 4/5

LDPC Code always displays in the Forward Error Correction window (Figure 63) when the waveform Mode is SOQPSKLDPC or STCLDPC.

Figure 63: Forward Error Correction Window, when in SOQPSKLDPC or SOQPSKSTC Mode Select the desired encoding format from the drop down menu, as shown in Figure 64.

Figure 64: Forward Error Correction Window, LDPC Mode Drop Down Menu
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
5.4.11.2 Viterbi Decoder (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) Convolutional encoding is a form of legacy forward error correction. Like LDPC, it adds redundant information at the transmitting end of a telemetry link and then uses that redundancy to detect and correct errors at the receiving end of the link. Details of K=7 rate=1/2 convolutional encoding are presented in CCSDS 131.0-B-2 Section 3. Viterbi decoding is used to decode convolutional-encoded data. The purpose and benefits of convolutional encoding are similar to LDPC. However, convolutional encoding requires more bandwidth than all but the lowest-rate LDPC codes, and its error-correcting performance is inferior to LDPC. Therefore, LDPC is the preferred forward error correction if possible. The Viterbi Decoder control requires the K7 option, and the RDMS must be set to one of the following PSK modes: BPSK, QPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, OQPSK, or UQPSK. The Viterbi Decoder can be disabled or enabled by clicking on the check box in the Forward Error Correction window, shown in Figure 65.
Figure 65: Forward Error Correction Window
5.4.11.3 Convolutional Symbol The Space Network Users’ Guide (NASA 450-SNUG) defines two different methods for generating quadrature symbols (variants of QPSK) when using convolutional encoding. The first method is for I and Q data streams to be independently encoded. In this method, two convolutional encoders are used, one for I data and one for Q data, as shown in Figure 66.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 66: I and Q Data Streams Independently Encoded The appropriate decoder for this method is selected by setting Convolutional Symbol to Disabled (unchecked), as shown in Figure 65. In older releases without the Convolutional Symbol control, this was the only method supported. The second method is for I and Q data to be created from the G1 and G2 generators, respectively, of a single convolutional encoder. In this method, only one convolutional encoder is used for both the I and Q data.
Figure 67: I and Q Data from Single Convolutional Encoder The appropriate decoder for this method is selected by setting Convolutional Symbol to Enabled (checked), as shown in Figure 68.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 68: Forward Error Correction Window, Convolutional Symbol Enabled (Checked)
5.4.11.4 Reed-Solomon Decoder (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) Reed-Solomon encoding is another form of legacy forward error correction. Like LDPC, it is a block code that adds redundant information at the transmitting end of a telemetry link and then uses that redundancy to detect and correct errors at the receiving end of the link. Unlike LDPC, however, encoding/decoding occurs on 8-bit symbols, and errors are detected and corrected on a symbol-by-symbol basis, regardless of the number of bits in error within a symbol. This characteristic makes Reed-Solomon encoding suitable for correcting burst errors. Details of ReedSolomon encoding are presented in CCSDS 131.0-B-2 Section 4. The specific variant of Reed-Solomon decoder implemented is the (255, 223) code. While Reed-Solomon encoding can be used by itself, it is a far less powerful code than LDPC. Its primary use is as a second code to correct burst errors that arise in the Viterbi decoder. The concatenation of Reed-Solomon encoding and convolutional encoding results in far better performance than either code by itself. The Reed-Solomon control requires the K7 option, and the RDMS must be set to one of the following PSK modes: BPSK, QPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, OQPSK, or UQPSK. The RDMS has only one Reed- Solomon decoder. Therefore, in AQPSK and AUQPSK modes, only the A’ data will be decoded when Reed-Solomon decoding is enabled;B’ data will be output without decoding. Reed-Solomon decoding and Viterbi decoding can be used together or separately. The Reed-Solomon decoder is selected by setting R-S Decoder to Enabled (checked), as shown in Figure 69.
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 69: Forward Error Correction Window, Reed-Solomon Decoder Enabled (Checked) 5.4.11.5 Interleave Depth (K7 Option Required) (Legacy PSK modes only) The burst error correction capability of the Reed-Solomon decoder can be extended by interleaving N code blocks, which spreads burst errors out in the decoder. Valid interleave depths range from N = 1 (no interleaving) to N = 8. Type a valid Interleave Depth in the field in the Forward Error Correction window, or use the up/down arrows to scroll to the desired value. The valid range is 1 to 8. 5.4.12 Advanced PCM/FM Settings The Advanced PCM/FM Settings window is shown in Figure 70. When the modulation is set to PCM/FM, the Scale Settings window includes settings for modulation scaling indexes. In any other mode, the Scale Settings are not available.
Figure 70: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window 5.4.12.1 Modulation Index Scaling Mode Modulation Scaling is a method used to retain the maximum trellis-coding gain of a non-ideal FM signal. Modulation Index Scaling Mode contains four settings: Track, Hold, Off, and Acquire. The RDMSTM automatically adjusts demodulator bandwidth based on the selected/estimated modulation index. However, IF filter bandwidth is not automatically adjusted, even when set to automatic. It is recommended that the
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
user manually scale the IF filter bandwidth proportional to the modulation index for modulation indexes greater than 1.0. The Modulation Index Scaling Mode option allows the operator to manually set the modulation scale index. This enables the receiver to operate at the optimum range of modulation desired by the user. The valid modulation scaling index range is 0.350 to 8.000.
Figure 71: Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Modulation Index Scaling Mode Menu 5.4.12.1.1 Modulation Scaling Track When the RDMSTM is powered on, the default setting is Acquire, unless the unit was powered off from a preset condition. If the unit was powered off from an unmodified preset setting, then the default condition of Modulation Scaling is as defined in the preset. When Track is set, the modulation scale index is actively being tracked. Note: The active setting is not saved when the receiver is powered off, unless the Mod Persist option was set to On. Frequency, mode, and bit rate changes, or any changes to a preset, cause the Modulation Scaling setting to revert back to Track. This is because the optimal signal monitoring is no longer valid. Note: Whenever the Diversity Combiner is On, any changes made to the Frequency option (even with Frequency Diversity On enabled) causes Modulation Scaling for both channels to be set to Track.
Figure 72: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Track
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 73: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Track The Mod Scaling indicator on the Monitor screen displays Track. If there are two channels, and the Combiner is set to On, the Modulation Scaling controls for setting the modes are linked. In Acquire or Track mode, the actual scaling operation functions independently in each channel. 5.4.12.1.2 Modulation Scaling Hold When the RDMSTM has a good lock on the target transmitter, Modulation Scaling should be set to Hold by selecting the Hold option on the Advanced PCMFM Settings Window, Modulation Index Scaling Mode drop down menu, as shown in Figure 74. When Modulation Scaling is set to Hold, the Mod Scaling indicator on the Monitor screen displays Hold, as shown in Figure 75, indicating the optimal modulation index is set.
Figure 74: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Hold
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
Figure 75: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Hold If Modulation Scaling is set to Hold, the active modulation scale index is also locked in on a particular setting. The modulation scale index is described in section 5.4.12.3. Locked index numbers, manually or automatically selected, are lost when the Mod Scaling option is set to Tracking, Off, or Acquire. If the Locked index number is to be retained following a power-off cycle of the rack, then turn on the Mod Persist option in the Advanced PPCM/FM Settings screen. Refer to section 5.4.12.2, Modulation Persistence. 5.4.12.1.3 Modulation Scaling Off The Mod Scaling Off setting is shown in Figure 76. When Modulation Scaling is set to Locked, the Mod Scaling indicator on the Monitor screen displays Off, as shown in Figure 77, indicating the optimal modulation index is set.
Figure 76: Advanced PCMFM Settings Menu, Modulation Scaling Off
Figure 77: Monitor Screen, Mod Scaling Set to Off
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3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMSTM Telemetry Receiver-Combiner
With Mod Scaling turned Off, the Mod Index is set to the optimal 0.700. Mod Scaling should be turned off when a new generation, digitally synthesized transmitter is the source. Digitally synthesized transmitters do not have a variable deviation sensitivity adjustment, and as such are not subject to inaccurate modulation index settings 5.4.12.1.4 Modulation Scaling Acquire When the RDMSTM is powered on, the default setting is Acquire, unless the unit was powered off from a preset condition. Acquire mode has two states: Armed and Triggered. When Modulation Scaling is set to Acquire, in the absence of signal, the Mod Scaling indicator on the Monitor screen shows Acquire, as shown in Figure 79, the state is set to Armed. In Armed state, modulation scaling op

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QUASonix 3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMS Telemetry Receiver Combiner Instruction Manual

3rd Generation Dual Channel Compact RDMS Telemetry Receiver Combiner

Specifications

Installation Instructions

3.1 Mechanical

3.2 Thermal

3.3 Electrical

User Interface

5.2 Signal Graph and Signal Indicators

5.2.2 Spectrum Graph

5.2.3 Diversity Combiner

5.2.4 Monitor Selective Display Options

5.2.5 Client Level Update Rate

5.3 Configure Screen

5.4 Combiner

5.4.4 PCM Encoding

5.4.5 Channel A Video Output

5.4.6 Channel B Video Output

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

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Q: How do I update the firmware of the receiver-combiner?

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