TECHNICAL OPERATION HANDBOOK

For

MANTIS MK4 240 ANTENNA

PORTABLE SATELLITE EARTH TERMINAL

Document No. 207575 Re. E4

The Document is supplied on the express terms that it is to be

treated as confidential and that it may not be copied, used or
disclosed to others for any purpose except as authorised by
Vislink.

ADVENT COMMUNICATIONS
Vislink House
27 Maylands Avenue
Hemel Hempstead
Hertfordshire
HP2 7DE
England

Telephone: National 01442 431 300

Fax: 01442 431 301

24 Hour Support +44 (0)1442 431 410

Email [email protected]

Advent Communications is a brand name of Vislink International

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CONTENTS
AMENDMENT RECORD SHEET 1
EMC DECLARATION 2
1. INTRODUCTION 3
1.1 GENERAL 3
1.2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 3
2. SPECIFICATION 4
2.1 RF 4
2.2 C BAND 4
2.3 X BAND 6
2.4 KU BAND 8
2.5 DBS BAND 9
2.6 MECHANICAL 10
2.7 ENVIRONMENTAL 10
3. TERMINAL DEPLOYMENT 11
3.1 SITE SELECTION 11
3.2 SETUP PROCEDURE 11
4. OPERATION 15
4.1 LEVELLING 15
4.2 ELEVATION 15
4.3 AZIMUTH 15
4.4 POLARISATION 15
4.5 WAVEGUIDE INTERCONNECT 16
5. DISMANTLING 17
5.1 STOW POSITIONS 17
5.2 PACKING 17
6. MAINTENANCE 19
6.1 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE 19
6.1.1 RADIATION CHECK 19
6.1.2 SEGMENTS AND HUB 19
6.1.3 ELEVATION GEAR 19
6.1.4 FEEDHORN WINDOW 19
6.1.5 FLEXIBLE WAVEGUIDE 19
6.2 FEEDARM ALIGNMENT 20
6.3 C BAND CIRCULAR POLARISATION 21
6.4 FAULT FINDING 22
6.4.1 NO SIGNAL 22
6.4.2 CAN’T FIND SATELLITE 22
6.4.3 SIGNAL LEVEL LOW 22
7. WARRANTY 23
7.1 WARRANTY INFORMATION 23
7.2 CLAIM FOR DAMAGE IN SHIPMENT 23
7.3 FIELD SERVICE 23
7.4 SHIPMENT OF REPAIR PARTS TO FIELD 23
7.5 RETURN PROCEDURES 23
7.6 TRANSPORTATION AND PACKAGING 24
7.7 AUTHORISATION FOR EVALUATION 24
8. APPENDIX A 25

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8.1 ASSEMBLY SEQUENCE 25
9. APPENDIX B 33
9.1 MANTIS 190-240 WIND STRUT ASSEMBLY 33
9.2 WIND STRUT ASSEMBLY 34
10. APPENDIX C 36
10.1 OPERATION 36
11. APPENDIX D 38
11.1 DISMANTLING 38
12. APPENDIX E 39
13. FIGURES 40
FIGURE 1 – MANTIS 240 ANTENNA DEPLOYED (FRONT VIEW) 40
FIGURE 2 – MANTIS 240 ANTENNA DEPLOYED (REAR VIEW) 41

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AMENDMENT RECORD SHEET

ISS DATE ECR DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE AUTHOR

A 07/2001 N/A New based on Document 207230. N/A
B 09/2001 N/A Hub Case numbering. N/A
C 10/2001 N/A W/G Interface & Segment Reorganisation. N/A
D 06/2002 N/A X and DBS Band added, Specifications N/A
updated.
E 08/2003 N/A General corrections to text and figures. N/A
E1 02/2006 7977 Feedarm offset for circularly polarised N/A
feedhorns details.
E2 22/04/2006 N/A Rebranded N/A
E3 29/04/2008 N/A Information on Wind Struts added. N/A
E4 19/11/2013 N/A Updated SC

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EMC DECLARATION

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL
The Mantis 240 Antenna is a compact and highly portable satellite earth terminal, capable of
operating with most of the geostationary, C, X, Ku & DBS Band satellites which are currently
in orbit or are planned.
The system has been designed to fit into a small number of transport housings (flight cases)
for ease of carriage and assembly. Once at a site the antenna may be deployed and
operational within 15 minutes, even in extreme weather conditions.
The antenna can be easily reconfigured to operate in other frequency bands, by simply
exchanging the Cartridge Feed assembly. This can be done within a couple of minutes.
This antenna is Very light for its size because of the use of modern materials
and computer based structural analysis in its design. One consequence is that
it can easily slide on most hard surfaces (low weight = low friction forces)
under relatively light wind loads. You are strongly recommended to use guy
wires attached to the reflector and/or mount boxes at one end and fixed to hard
points or massive objects at the other, to restrain the antenna during every
deployment.

1.2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

The antenna as supplied comprises three flight cases:

Mount case Mount base and pedestal.

Primary Segment Case 4 x Reflector Segments, 1 x Central Hub,
Tool Bag and additional Cartridge Feeds
(optional).
Secondary Segment 4 x Reflector Segments, 1 x Cartridge
Case Feedarm, Cartridge Feeds (optional),
Interconnecting Twist/ Flex Waveguide

Figure 1 shows the terminal deployed.

The Mantis 240 system is based on a 1.9 antenna, which breaks down into 8 segments, a
central hub cartridge feedarm and feeds
The central hub fits onto the mount assembly using four 8mm (A/F) ball headed hex drive
fasteners and the segments are easily slotted into the circumference of the hub.
The mount allows rotation in three axes:
Elevation 0 - 90 degrees
Azimuth ± 45 deg
Polarisation ± 95 deg
A feature of the design is the use of joining the Mount and Primary Segment Case’s to make
a rigid mount structure. This is formed by connecting the two cases together using four quick
release fasteners. The cases are constructed from carbon fibre which is very stiff and light,
and by joining them together, you form a structure which can support the reflector, mount
and electronics off the ground while providing a wide stable base.
The base incorporates six levelling jacks to allow the structure to be set level on slopes as
great as 1 in 10. The jacks fully retract for transport. A feature of the Cartridge Feed design
is the ease with which the transformation between frequency band’s can be made.

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2. SPECIFICATION
2.1 RF
Type Circular (axially symmetric)
Diameter 2.4 metres
Configuration Prime focus

2.2 C BAND
Frequency (GHz) Tx 5.85 6.650 (7.25 optional).
Rx 3.40 4.20 GHz
Gain (dBi) Tx 41.15 @ 5.85 GHz 41.4 @ feed aperture
Rx 37.85 @ 3.95 GHz 38.0 @ feed aperture
WG loss (dB) Tx 0.25 Feedarm/OMT
Rx 0.15 OMT/Filter
Co-Polar Off-
Tx 29-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 20°
Axis Gain (dBi)
-3.5 20 < θ < 26.3°
32-25 logθ 26.3 < θ < 48°
-10 48° < θ
Rx 32-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 48°
-10 dBi 48° < θ
Cross Polar Off
Tx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
Axis Gain (dBi)
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Rx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Noise Temperature (°K) 10 deg 60 includes sky, ohmic losses
30 deg 45 excludes LNA
17.0, (40K LNC on feedarm),
G/T (dB/K) typical
@ 3.95GHz

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LINEAR POLARISATION
Polarisation Linear, orthogonal
Feed 1 Tx port 1 Rx port
(2nd RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
Cross polar isolation -30 dB rel co-polar gain within 1dB
contour, Tx/Rx bands

VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.35:1

Port/Port isolation Tx/Rx (5.85-6.65GHz) 30 dB (90dB incl filter)

Rx/Tx (3.4 -4.2GHz) 30 dB

CIRCULAR POLARISATION
Polarisation Circular LH, RH
Feed LH/RH CP Tx port LH/RH Rx port
(2nd LH/RH RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
Cross polar isolation Tx -30 dB (axial ratio 1.07)
Rx -20 dB ( " “ 1.22)
Relative co-polar gain within
1dB contour, Tx/Rx bands

VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.4:1 (3.7-4.2, 1.6 max @
3.625GHz)

Port/Port isolation Tx/Rx (5.85-6.425GHz) 20 dB (80dB incl filter)

Rx/Tx (3.7 -4.2GHz) 20 dB

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2.3 X BAND
Frequency (GHz) Tx 7.90 8.40
Rx 7.25 7.75
Gain (dBi) Tx 43.67 @ 7.90 GHz 44.0 @ feed aperture
Rx 43.33 @ 7.40 GHz 43.5 @ feed aperture
WG loss (dB) Tx 0.33 Feedarm/OMT
Rx 0.17 OMT/Filter
Co-Polar Off-Axis 100λ/D < θ < 20°
Tx 29-25 logθ
Gain (dBi)
-3.5 20 < θ < 26.3°
32-25 logθ 26.3 < θ < 48°
-10 48° < θ
Rx 32-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 48°
-10 dBi 48° < θ
Cross Polar Off 1.8° < θ < 7°
Tx 19-15 logθ
Axis Gain (dBi)
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Rx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Noise
10 deg 70 includes sky, ohmic losses
Temperature (°K)
30 deg 55 excludes LNA
G/T (dB/K) typical 21 (60 K LNA on Feedarm), @ 7.40GHz

LINEAR POLARISATION
Polarisation Linear, orthogonal
Feed 1 Tx port 1 Rx port
(2nd RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
Cross polar isolation -30 dB rel co-polar gain within 1dB
contour, Tx/Rx bands

VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.35:1

Port/Port isolation Tx/Rx (7.9-8.4 20 dB (90dB incl

GHz) filter)
Rx/Tx (7.25-7.75 20 dB
GHz)

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CIRCULAR POLARISATION
Polarisation Circular LH, RH
Feed LH/RH CP Tx port LH/RH Rx port
(2nd LH/RH RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
Cross polar isolation
Tx -30 dB (axial ratio 1.07)
Rx -20 dB ( " 1.22)
Relative co-polar gain within
1dB contour, Tx/Rx bands

VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.4:1

Port/Port isolation Tx/Rx (7.9-8.4 20 dB (80dB incl

GHz) filter)
Rx/Tx (7.25-7.75 20 dB
GHz)

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2.4 KU BAND
Frequency (GHz) Tx 13.75 14.5
Rx 10.7 12.75
Gain (dBi) Tx 48.3 @ 13.75GHz 48.8 @ feed aperture
Rx 46.9 @ 11.2 GHz 47.1 @ feed aperture
WG loss (dB) Tx 0.50 Feedarm/OMT
Rx 0.20 OMT/Filter
Co-Polar Off-Axis
Tx 29-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 20°
Gain (dBi)
-3.5 20 < θ < 26.3°
32-25 logθ 26.3 < θ < 48°
-10 48° < θ
Rx 32-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 48°
-10 dBi 48° < θ
Cross Polar Off
Tx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
Axis Gain (dBi)
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Rx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Noise
10 deg 80 includes sky, ohmic losses
Temperature (°K)
30 deg 65 excludes LNB
G/T (dB/K)
25.0, (60K LNC on feedarm), @ 11.2GHz
typical
Polarisation Linear-orthogonal
Circular (optional)
1 Tx port 1 Rx port
Feed
(2nd RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
-30 dB rel co-polar gain within 1dB contour, Tx/Rx
Cross polar isolation
bands
VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.35:1
TX/RX
Port/Port isolation 40 dB (110dB incl. filter)
(13.75-14.5)
Rx/Tx (10.7-
30 dB
12.75)

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2.5 DBS BAND
Frequency (GHz) Tx 17.3 18.4
Rx 10.7 12.75
Gain (dBi) Tx 50.2 @ 17.3GHz 50.8 @ feed aperture
Rx 46.9 @ 11.2 GHz 47.1 @ feed aperture
WG loss (dB) Tx 0.60 Feedarm/OMT
Rx 0.20 OMT/Filter
Co-Polar Off-Axis
Tx 29-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 20°
Gain (dBi)
-3.5 20 < θ < 26.3°
32-25 logθ 26.3 < θ < 48°
-10 48° < θ
Rx 32-25 logθ 100λ/D < θ < 48°
-10 dBi 48° < θ
Cross Polar Off
Tx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
Axis Gain (dBi)
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Rx 19-15 logθ 1.8° < θ < 7°
-2 7° < θ < 9.2°
Noise
10 deg 80 includes sky, ohmic losses
Temperature (°K)
30 deg 65 excludes LNB
G/T (dB/K)
25.0, (60K LNC on feedarm), @ 11.2GHz
typical
Polarisation Linear-orthogonal
Circular (optional)
1 Tx port 1 Rx port
Feed
(2nd RX Co-Polar Tx port optional)
Power (W) CW 650
-30 dB rel co-polar gain within 1dB contour, Tx/Rx
Cross polar isolation
bands
VSWR Tx 1.3:1
Rx 1.35:1
TX/RX (17.3-
Port/Port isolation 40 dB (110dB incl. filter)
18.4)
Rx/Tx (10.7-
30 dB
12.75)

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2.6 MECHANICAL
Mount Elevation over Azimuth
Operation Manual
Waveguide Flanges Advent Quick Release Flanges

Movement
Azimuth ± 45° ±2.5° fine adjust movement
Elevation +0 to +90° (with additional Mount
elevation)
Polarisation ± 95°

Dimensions
Mount case 540x540x670(H) mm
Segment case x QTY 990x990x490(H) mm
2

Weight
Mount Case 25.5kg
Primary Segment 58kg
Case
Secondary Segment 44kg
Case

2.7 ENVIRONMENTAL

Temperature
Operational -20 to +50° C
Transport -40 to +70° C

Windspeed
(Operational) 12 m/s
(Survival) 20 m/s

Pointing Stability < ± 0.2°

Humidity 0 to 100 % RH
Shock and Vibration As encountered in transportable systems.
Snow, Dust, Hail Not defined.

Note. The windspeed in which the system can operate is dependent upon the weight of any
equipment put on the segment case which acts as "ballast" and also the nature of the
surface on which it is deployed. Too little ballast or too smooth a surface and the system will
slide. This is obeying the laws of physics. Guy Tags are provided on each segment to
facilitate the use of guy lines to assist in these conditions.

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3. TERMINAL DEPLOYMENT
3.1 SITE SELECTION
The prime requirement of any site is the availability of a clear line of sight towards the
designated satellite. Therefore, before deploying any of the equipment:
a. Determine the direction and elevation angles for the satellite either by calculation or
from data provided by the local PTT.
b. Select a site that optimises the following attributes:
1). Does not have any obstruction between the terminal and the satellite. Any
blockage between the satellite and the terminal represents a loss of signal. This
is seen at the receiving station as a reduction in signal quality. Special notice
should be taken of blockage by trees or shrubs, as the water content of these
leads to very significant signal attenuation.

2). Firm level ground. If the ground is not sufficiently firm the terminal may sink in,
altering its elevation and possibly also its polarisation angle. If the ground slope
is in excess of approximately 1 in 12 it may not be possible to level the antenna
base.

3). Is sheltered from wind and rain. Strong winds can cause the antenna to point
slightly away from the satellite, again leading to a loss of signal. It is also more
comfortable for the operator to be sheltered from the elements.

3.2 SETUP PROCEDURE

Within Appendix A is a photographic assembly sequence and identification of the position of
the various controls. Each Photograph is cross-referenced to a section within the text.
• Orientate the Mount Case with the four fixing bosses (used to connect to the segment
case) facing away from the direction of the desired satellite.
• Unscrew the four corner black nylon handnuts, which secure the mount within its case
and put carefully to one side.
• Using the two upper handles carefully, and lifting vertically, remove the Mount from the
case. Place it carefully on its base away from the case.
• Place the Primary Segment Case immediately behind the Mount Case and align the
fixing bosses with the nylon bores. Ensure that the bosses are pushed fully home. From
the inside of the Mount Case engage and then tighten the four captive connecting bolts
between the two cases. This forms a structure, which can support the reflector, mount
and electronics off the ground while providing a wide stable base.
• The Secondary Segment Case is not designed to be a structural part of the Antenna
and may therefore be located in any location suitable for the operator.
• Replace the Mount on top of the Mount Case with the pedestal uppermost positioned
facing towards the direction of the satellite. Again, take care to lower the assembly
vertically and slowly to avoid binding on the four locating posts. Replace the nylon nuts
on the four studs and tighten securely.
• The Elevation angle of the mount should be stowed at 90° (zenith). Adjust the elevation
angle of the pedestal such as to point the hub at approximately zenith if it is not already
in this position.

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IMPORTANT.
IF THE WEATHER IS POOR, TAKE GREAT CARE TO AVOID THE INGRESS OF EITHER
DUST OR WATER INTO THE FEEDARM WAVEGUIDE OR INTO THE HUB WAVEGUIDE.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS PROCEDURE WILL LEAD TO A LOSS OF TRANSMIT
POWER AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE.

• Open the Primary and Secondary Segment Case’s by unscrewing the four corner black
nylon handnuts which secure the Segment Case Lid to its Case. Remove the lid’s and
carefully place them to one side prior to it being replaced. Remove the Tool bag from
the Secondary Case.
• Identify the stowage position of the Waveguide Interface plate located on the Mount.
Release the three fasteners and then place the Waveguide Interface Plate onto the
back of the Central Hub whilst stowed within the Secondary Segment Case, noting the
position of the 6mm Locating Dowel. Carefully and evenly refasten the Waveguide
Interface Plate onto the Central Hub.
• Remove the assembled Central Hub from the Secondary Segment Case and locate onto
the Mount ensuring that the Waveguide Interface is carefully lowered through the Mount
as the Central Hub is positioned in place.
• Obtain the 8mm (A/F) ball headed hex drive) from within the Tool Bag. Secure the
Centre Hub to the Mount by fastening the four captive screws using the 8 mm (A/F) ball
headed hex drive.
• Ensure that the 8 Off Segment Retaining screws fitted to the Centre Hub are unscrewed
(rotated counter clockwise).

NOTE. SCREWING IN TOO FAR WILL PREVENT ENTRY OF THE SEGMENTS.

• Unfasten the Velcro straps that secure the Cartridge Feedarm within the Secondary
Segment Case and then carefully remove the Cartridge Feedarm from the case.
• Remove the WG Flange cover from the WG Interface Plate located in the Central Hub
by unscrewing the two Fasteners and then remove the WG cover from the Cartridge
Feedarm at the Hub Interface end and stow both in a safe, dry place.
• Obtain the Flat Bladed screwdriver from within the Tool Bag. Align the Cartridge
Feedarm through the middle of the Centre Hub and Mount and carefully insert the RX L-
Band Cable through appropriate hole within the Hub WG Interface Plate. Continue
aligning the Cartridge Feedarm ensuring that the two locating dowels in the Hub WG
Interface Plate are correctly aligned with the dowel locating holes within the Cartridge
Feed.

Note: The two dowels are of different sizes so that it should not be possible to misalign the
Cartridge Feed onto the Central Hub.
Using the Flat bladed screwdriver, tighten the four captive screws through the intermediate
Hub plate using the screwdriver.
• One or more of the following Cartridge Feedhorns (optional) may have been supplied.
Ku Band Linear Polarisation
DBS-Band Linear Polarisation
C Band Linear Polarisation
C band Circular Polarisation
X-Band Circular Polarisation
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• Carefully remove the required Cartridge Feedhorn from the case having ensured that
the appropriate Cartridge Feedhorn has been selected for the required operation.
• If selecting the a Circular Cartridge Feedhorn first check that it is set to transmit and
receive on the correct hand of polarisation. These are marked on the feedhorn and
ideally need to be configured prior to assembly to the Cartridge Feedarm.

To change C-Band Circular Polarisation:

Ensure any transmitter is set to off or disconnected. Any microwave energy in the transmit
waveguide during this operation could be a severe safety hazard
Disconnect the SHF coaxial cable between the Feedhorn and the Receive Filter.
Transfer the N-Type termination presently fitted on the opposite receive polarisation port to
the other polarisation port.
Remove the 4 screws at the waveguide flange and 2 screws from the support bracket.
Withdraw the feed assembly, rotate through 180 degrees and refit.
Replace and fully tighten the screws.
Reconnect the SHF coaxial cable.

• The Receive Filter and Low Noise Converter LNC (optional) may be fitted as part of the
Cartridge Feedhorn assembly. A selection of Ku-Band LNC’s are available and the
operator should confirm that the low noise converter fitted is suitable for the satellite
being accessed. These requirements vary according to the region of the world, and the
satellite operator. There are number of frequency options that may be fitted.

Ku Band
LO Freq band (GHz)
(GHz)
Astra 9.750 10.70-11.70
Europe and International 10.000 10.95-11.70
US Domestic 10.750 11.70-12.25
Australia, Europe 11.300 12.50-12.75
Wideband 10.0 / 10.7-11.7 / 11.7-
11.3 12.75

C Band
International extended 5.150 3.40-4.20

• To change the LNC, unbolt the existing unit from the Cartridge Feedhorn plate. Replace
with the appropriate part(s) and bolt into position. Ensure that any waveguide gaskets
between flanges are correctly re-installed and that they do not become trapped. We
would recommend however that the gaskets are replaced each time.
• Obtain the Flat Bladed screwdriver from within the Tool Bag. Remove the waveguide
protective covers on both the selected Cartridge Feedhorn and Cartridge Feedarm and
stow them in a safe dry place. Secure the two assemblies together ensuring that the
Receive L-Band cable is not trapped. Tighten the six captive screws with the
screwdriver.
• If fitted remove the plastic Feedhorn cap and stow in a safe, dry place.

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NOTE. THIS CAP IS NOT DESIGNED TO WITHSTAND RF ENERGY.

• Connect the L-Band N-Type Connector to the Receive LNB

• Disengage the straps securing the segments and position them so as not to impede
segment removal.

NOTE. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ASSEMBLE THE ANTENNA IN ANY ORIENTATION

OTHER THAN POINTING AT ZENITH. AT OTHER ANGLES IT IS AWKWARD TO ALIGN
THE SEGMENTS.

• Remove the first segment and fit into the circumference slot of the Central Hub such
that it is centrally placed with two of the fasteners locating against the segment at each
side.
If the segment does not fit easily and snugly against the Central Hub circumference,
check that the hub fastener is fully unwound (counter clockwise) and not projecting too
far so that it is impeding entry into the circumferential slot.
Pinch up the Left Hand fastener and then unscrew 1/8 turn.

FAILURE TO RELEASE THE FASTENER MAY IMPEDE THE ASSEMBLY OF THE LAST
SEGMENT.

• Ensure the over centre latch at the rim of the Segment is folded back so that it does not
impede the entry of the next segment.
• Remove the next Segment from the Segment Case and attach it to the right hand side
of the last segment presently located in the Central Hub. Ensure that the locating peg
located at the perimeter right hand side of the fitted Segment aligns into the peg retainer
on the left-hand side of the next Segment.
• Pinch up the Left Hand Segment to Hub fastener and then unscrew 1/2 turn.

DO NOT OPERATE THE OVERCENTRE LATCHES AT THE RIM OF THE SEGMENTS AT

THIS STAGE. DOING SO MAY MISALIGN THE REFLECTOR.

• Continue to insert the remaining Segments in the same way. Prior to Inserting the last
segment, loosening off the left-hand fastener of the first segment inserted so that it
allows easy entry of the last segment.
• When all of the segments are in place engage and operate the over centre latches at
the rim of the reflector. These are of an adjustable design and should be set at this
stage. The correct tension is achieved when moderate closing force is required to
operate the lever. An excessive force could distort the segment locally.
• Finally pinch up all the hub fasteners.
• Replace the Segment Case lids and fasteners.

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4. OPERATION
4.1 LEVELLING
Watching the spirit level fitted to the mount, adjust the extendable legs using the 6 mm (A/F)
ball headed hex drive from within the Tool Bag and then level the base. Ensure that all legs
are firmly on the ground.

4.2 ELEVATION
Release the Elevation handle from its stowed position and then using the elevation adjuster
set the elevation angle to that appropriate for the satellite being accessed. The elevation
angle may be read directly from the scale located on the elevation drive. During this
operation it is quite normal to feel some resistance to movement increasing as the angle of
elevation approaches zero.

4.3 AZIMUTH
Release the Azimuth brake on the antenna pedestal base by rotating the red locking knob
anticlockwise. Release the azimuth course adjust lock by unlatching the red locking lever.
Rotate the antenna clockwise or counter clockwise (gripping the reflector edge is easiest)
until a signal is seen on the monitoring equipment (not supplied). When set to approximately
the correct position, latch the azimuth course red lever again and continue to make small
adjustments as necessary by means of the fine adjust screw.

THE MOST LIKELY REASON FOR NOT FINDING A SATELLITE IS THAT THE
ELEVATION OR AZIMUTH ANGLE IS INCORRECT. IF THERE IS A PROBLEM, CHECK
THESE BEFORE ANY OTHER ACTION IS TAKEN. REMEMBER THAT COMPASS
BEARINGS CAN BE NOTORIOUSLY INACCURATE AROUND BUILDINGS AND THAT
MAGNETIC DEVIATIONS VARY AROUND THE WORLD.

Optimise the elevation and azimuth bearing angles to maximise the signal strength.
After optimisation, apply the azimuth lock by rotating the red locking knob clockwise.
Note that it is unlikely that you can peak up on a sidelobe of the antenna because they are at
such a low level.

4.4 POLARISATION
Unlock the polarisation brake and rotate the antenna in polarisation, by gripping the edge of
the reflector, to null out a signal which is on the opposite polarisation to that you will be
transmitting on. Make a note of the reading on the polarisation scale and then rotate either
clockwise or counter clockwise through 90 degrees. Choose the sense of rotation which
leaves the polarisation pointer on the scale.
This operation is only sensibly done using a spectrum analyser and a signal with a dynamic
range of greater than 35 dB, especially true at C Band.
Lock the polarisation axis, taking care not to move the antenna.
Note. When using circularly polarised feedhorns/cartridges, the feedarm must be rotated to
be at 45 degrees to the geostationary arc. A table to calculate the polarisation setting for a
given latitude and relative longitude to the satellite is given in Appendix D.

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4.5 WAVEGUIDE INTERCONNECT
The frequency application of the Antenna essentially dictates the appropriate supply of
optional Feedarm, Cartridge Feedhorns and mating Central Hub Waveguide Interface which
subsequently determines the Waveguide Interface provided.
Current Options are:

WR137 / WR75 for C-Band / Ku-Band

WRD580 / WR62 for C-Band & Ku-Band / DBS Band

A mating Advent Quick Release waveguide / flange is provided for each style of Cartridge
waveguide interface provided for cross-site waveguide connection to the Antenna.

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5. DISMANTLING
The dismantling procedure is substantially the reverse of the assembly.

5.1 STOW POSITIONS

• Disconnect the cross-site waveguide, fit the flange covers and place temporarily in a
safe place.
• Release the Polarisation brake and set the Polarisation angle to its STOW position (10°)
Re-apply the brake ensuring that the handle is set in the lower position for stowage.
• Release the Azimuth brake and Azimuth Course adjust lock and set the Azimuth angle
to its STOW position (35°) and then re-apply the lock and brake.
• Set the Elevation axis to zenith (90°)

Setting the Level, Polarisation, Azimuth and Elevation to their respective STOW positions will
allow easy stowage of the Mount whilst also preventing the mount moving during transport.
WARNING. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE SEGMENTS
UNLESS THE ANTENNA IS POINTING AT ZENITH. FAILURE TO DO SO QUITE
POSSIBLY WILL DAMAGE EITHER THE EQUIPMENT OR INFLICT INJURY TO
YOURSELF.

5.2 PACKING

• Remove the Segment case covers and place in a dry safe area.
• Disconnect the segments in turn and stow in the Segment Cases. Ensure that the
segments are seated one above the other and are not skew or otherwise misaligned in
either case. Fasten the Velcro securing straps.
• Disconnect the Cartridge Feedhorn and the receive L-Band cable between the Cartridge
Feedarm and Feedhorn. Fit the flange cover and feedhorn protective cap (if supplied) to
the Cartridge Feedhorn and the flange cover to the Cartridge Feedarm. Stow in the case
from where it was removed.
• Disconnect the Cartridge Feedarm, fit the flange cover to the unprotected end and stow
in the Primary Segment Case from where it was removed using the Velcro straps.
• Ensure that the Central Hub Waveguide Interface plate flange covers have also been
fitted.
• Unscrew the four hub fasteners and remove the Central Hub. Stow in the Secondary
Segment Case.
• Remove the Waveguide Interface Plate from the Central Hub and refit in its stowage
position on the Mount.
• Stow the Tool bag ensuring all hand tools are replaced.
• Fit the Segment Case lids noting the alignment arrows where applied.
• Ensure that the Azimuth and Polarisation Brake Handles are suitably positioned to not
obstruct the mount being stowed within its case. Unscrew the four nylon nuts holding the
mount. Carefully and lifting vertically, remove the pedestal assembly of the mount box
and place on the ground.
• Retract all four levelling jacks then unscrew the interconnection between the mount and
Primary Segment case. If the jacks are not retracted first you may experience some
tightness in the interconnecting bolts due to them carrying a shear load.

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• Carefully and lowering vertically, stow the Mount into its case and secure.

NOTE. IF THE ANTENNA IS WET WHEN DISSEMBLED, ENSURE THAT THE

COMPONENTS AND CASES ARE THOROUGHLY DRIED OUT AT THE FIRST
REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY. THIS PROCEDURE IS PRECAUTIONARY TO MAXIMISE
THE LIFE OF THE EQUIPMENT.

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6. MAINTENANCE
6.1 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
The following maintenance is to be carried out every three months during normal service. If
the equipment is in heavy use in extreme environmental conditions then the maintenance
period should be reduced.

6.1.1 RADIATION CHECK

Perform a radiation check around the antenna, outside of the main beam. As a guidance, for
transmit power of 300 watts the power density will not exceed 10mW/cm sq. Measurements
in excess of this may indicate a problem.

Before carrying out any maintenance, ensure that power is disconnected from the system.

6.1.2 SEGMENTS AND HUB

Inspect the segments and hub reflecting surfaces for damage. Any damage may affect
performance or produce dangerous levels of RF radiation.

6.1.3 ELEVATION GEAR

• Remove the dish and hub from the mount.

• Move the mount through elevation past zero until the wheel gear is no longer engaged
with the worm gear. Support the mount as zero is approached. When the mount top
pivot part is free to move, rest it forward against the bottom pivot part.
• The wheel gear is now completely exposed.
• Remove any grease and dirt from the worm and wheel gears.
• Lightly re-lubricate the worm and wheel gears using a low temperature grease - Kluber
Isoflex LDS18 (Advent P/N G04-000004), or similar.
• To re-engage the worm and wheel, pull the mount top pivot part up and wind the
elevation handle.

6.1.4 FEEDHORN WINDOW

• Check that the feedhorn window is not cut or damaged.

• If the window is damaged, contact Advent Communications for a replacement.

6.1.5 FLEXIBLE WAVEGUIDE

• Inspect all flexible waveguide for degradation of the rubber that may indicate internal
damage.
• Replace any damaged waveguide. When replacing waveguide, check the condition of
the waveguide shims. If a metal shim is used, replace it. If gore (rubber) shims are used,
then they may be re-used if they are still in good condition (replace if not). If the gore
shim being replaced is bonded in place, any adhesive left on the flange surface should
be cleaned off using isopropyl alcohol or similar prior to fitting the new shim.

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6.2 FEEDARM ALIGNMENT

• If a new Cartridge Feedarm assembly is to be fitted it will need to be aligned to place the
Cartridge Feedhorn at the focus of the reflector. Alignment is effected by setting the
Cartridge Feedarm Interface flange in the hub.
SHOULD CIRCUMSTANCES DICTATE THAT IT IS NOT FEASIBLE TO REALIGN A
FEEDARM ASSEMBLY THEN IT IS LIKELY THAT THE ANTENNA PERFORMANCE WILL
NOT BE SIGNIFICANTLY DEGRADED BY DIRECT SUBSTITUTION. HOWEVER THERE
WILL BE A CERTAIN DEGREE OF BEAM SQUINT SUCH THAT ROTATING THE
ANTENNA TO ADJUST POLARISATION WILL RESULT IN THE MAIN BEAM
DESCRIBING A CONE IN SPACE.
• Put the new Cartridge Feedarm and Feedhorn assembly into position. Set mount to
point to zenith
• Measure the distance from the feedhorn to the rim of the hub at three points. The three
points should be chosen to be opposite to the adjuster screws on the Hub Waveguide
Interface Plate. This dimensions should be within 0.5mm
• Determine which screw(s) is to be adjusted to centralise the feedhorn.
• Slacken off the 3 fasteners (item 1, figure 2) securing the interface plate by 2 turns
each. Remove the sealing compound from the M12 bolts and lock nuts and release the
lock nuts. Wind the appropriate adjuster up/down and lock off. As a crude estimate, 1
turn of the adjuster will change the measured dimension by 7mm.
• With one hand press up firmly on the centre of the interface plate such that it is
supported on the three adjusters. Lightly pinch up the 3 fasteners, then torque to 5Nm.
• Repeat steps d) to f) until the measurements are within 2mm of one another.
• Measure the distance from the feedhorn aperture to the hub spinning inner rim. This
dimension should be set to 935.5mm ± 0.5mm.
• To achieve this, slacken off the 3 mounting flange fasteners sufficiently to allow the
required displacement and turn the three adjusters equally. One turn on all adjusters will
move the feedhorn by 1mm. Clockwise turn will reduce the dimension & vice versa.
• With one hand press up firmly on the centre of the interface plate such that it is
supported on the three adjusters. Lightly pinch up the 3 fasteners, then torque to 5Nm.
• Repeat the adjustments to centralise and set the focal length until the three rim
measurements are within 1mm.
• Reset the reflector blanking plate on the 4 adjustable legs without using the M4
countersink screws. Adjust the legs such that the plate is positioned 0.5mm below the
level of the hub centre section.
• Lift off the central blanking plate and remove the feedarm assembly without altering the
position of the adjustable legs. Fasten the plate in position.

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6.3 C BAND CIRCULAR POLARISATION
If the markings identifying right and left circular polarisation are not visible or have become
obliterated:
Ensure any transmitter is set to off or disconnected. Any microwave energy in the transmit
waveguide during this operation could be a severe safety hazard,
If fitted, remove the Cartridge Feedhorn protective cap cover and look into the feedhorn in a
direction away from the reflector with the feedarm set horizontal to your left. You will see two
opposing vanes in the outer coaxial section and some small tuning screws on one of the
sides of the square section of the feed. One vane is long and the other short where length is
defined along the length of the feedhorn (not in a radial direction).

Setting 1 Tx LHCP Longer vane lowermost

Rx RHCP Screws face feedarm
Setting 2 Tx RHCP Longer vane uppermost
Rx LHCP Screws away from feedarm

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6.4 FAULT FINDING

6.4.1 NO SIGNAL
Check the LNB/LNX is powered. If you have a spectrum, you should see the characteristic
noise hump between 900 and 1700 MHz that indicates the LNB is working.
Check that the receive filter is of the appropriate type and frequency (bandpass or lowpass)
Check the polarisation setting. If in doubt, set the feedarm at 45deg to horizontal (or vertical)
alignment that is appropriate for that site. This will receive both polarisation simultaneously.
Check that the satellite is not co-linear, i.e. transmit/receive signals are on the same
polarisation. If it is, you need a diplexer.

6.4.2 CAN’T FIND SATELLITE

Check as above for no signal.
Check azimuth and elevation angles. Especially with azimuth, beware local magnetic
variations caused by metal inside buildings. Try obtaining alternative bearing, e.g. from map
or local buildings.
Satellite viewing is blocked by a building. You have to move to get a clear line of site.
Check that the satellite operating parameters are appropriate for the antenna configuration.
Feedarm has been bent giving erroneous elevation angles.
Try finding another satellite with known high levels of traffic e.g. Astra/Hot Bird. Then use
this position to predict where the wanted satellite should be.
Satellite or transponder has been switched off.

6.4.3 SIGNAL LEVEL LOW

Especially at C band, have you fitted the correct feedarm, linear or circular. Incorrect fitment
will lead to 3dB loss in both cases.
Rain fade?
Pointing incorrect. Try re-peaking.

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7. WARRANTY
7.1 WARRANTY INFORMATION
Under recommended use and service, all Vislink products are warranted against defects in
material and workmanship to twelve (12) months from the date of original shipment.
Vislink's obligation is limited to repairing or replacing, at our plant, products, which prove to
be defective during the warranty period.
Under no circumstances shall the warranty be transferred or assigned to any third party
unless the consent in writing has first been obtained from Vislink. Vislink shall not be under
any liability for warranty in respect of any equipment, which shall be sold by the Customer to
any third party unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Vislink is not liable for consequential damage resulting from the use of Vislink equipment.
Tubes are covered by the respective manufacturer's warranty, which applies from the date of
shipment.

7.2 CLAIM FOR DAMAGE IN SHIPMENT

Your unit should be inspected and tested as soon as it is received. Claims for damage
should be filed with carrier.

7.3 FIELD SERVICE

Vislink will make field warranty repairs, at Customer's request, where (in Vislink's judgement)
practicable. The Customer will be responsible for all transportation charges, per diem, and
current daily engineering labour rate. A purchase order for these services must be issued
prior to field service.

7.4 SHIPMENT OF REPAIR PARTS TO FIELD

A purchase order for warranty repair parts must be issued prior to sending parts to field.
Parts will be priced at current prices and payment if full will be due if failed parts are not
returned within 30 days (regardless of responsibility) of receipt of warranty parts.
If parts are shipped within the prescribed time, a credit will be given.

7.5 RETURN PROCEDURES

All claims under warranty must be made promptly after occurrence of circumstances giving
rise to the claim and must be received within the applicable warranty period by Vislink or its
authorised representative. Vislink reserves the right to reject any warranty claim not promptly
reported. After expiration of the applicable warranty period, products are not subject to
adjustment.
Before any Product is returned for repair and / or adjustment, authorisation from Vislink for
the return and instructions as to how and where the Product should be shipped must be
obtained. The Product type, serial numbers, and a full description of the circumstances
giving rise to the warranty claim should be included. Such information will help establish the
cause of failure and expedite adjustment or repair.

IMPORTANT
Any Product returned without complete information will be considered not to have met all
contractual requirements. Information required includes (as a minimum): Model Number,
Serial Number, Description, Hours of Use, Type of Failure, and Operating Conditions during
failure.

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7.6 TRANSPORTATION AND PACKAGING
Any Product returned for examination must be sent prepaid via the means of transportation
indicated as acceptable by Vislink. Vislink reserves the right to reject any warranty claim on
any item that has been altered or has been shipped by non-acceptable means of
transportation. Returned Products should be carefully packed and unless otherwise
indicated, shipped to:
Advent Communications
Vislink House
27 Maylands Avenue
Hemel Hempstead
Hertfordshire
HP2 7DE
England

7.7 AUTHORISATION FOR EVALUATION

When any Product is returned for examination and inspection, or for any other reason,
Customer and its shipping agency shall be responsible for all damage resulting from
improper packing or handling, and for loss in transit, notwithstanding any defect or non-
conformity in the Product. By returning a Product, the owner grants Vislink permission to
open and inspect the returned Product to determine the cause of failure, and Vislink's
determination with regard there to shall be final.
If it is found that the Product has been returned without cause and is still serviceable, the
Customer will be notified and the Product returned with appropriate inspection charges
billed, at Vislink's discretion, to the Customer.

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8. APPENDIX A
8.1 ASSEMBLY SEQUENCE

Section 3.2.1 Section 3.2.2

Section 3.2.3 Section 3.2.4

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Section 3.2.5a Section 3.2.5b

Section 3.2.7 a Section 3.2.7 b

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Section 3.2.8a Section 3.2.8b

Section 3.2.9a Section 3.2.9b

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Section 3.2.10a Section 3.2.10b

Section 3.2.12

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Section 3.2.13a Section 3.2.13b

Section 3.2.15 Section 3.2.19a

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Section 3.2.19b Section 3.2.21

Section 3.2.22b Section 3.2.22c

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Section 3.2.23 Section 3.2.24

Section 3.2.25 Section 3.2.26

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Section 3.2.27

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9. APPENDIX B
9.1 MANTIS 190-240 WIND STRUT ASSEMBLY

• Assemble the antenna as described in their respective operation manuals.

Consideration should be given to the amount of space surrounding the antenna to allow
placement of the wind struts.
• Point the antenna and adjust polarisation to find the satellite.
• Remove the wind struts from their packing case.
• The wind strut bases may be either fixed to the antenna segment case or placed on the
ground. If the struts are to be placed on the ground then screw in the spreader plates
onto the bottom of the wind struts.
• Unlock the telescoping legs and ensure that the fasteners on the end of the wind struts
are loose. Press the top end of the strut onto the guy rope points on the perimeter of the
dish and tighten the fasteners to keep the struts captive on the dish.
• It is recommended that the four struts are positioned roughly equally around the
perimeter of the dish.
• If the struts are being fixed to the segment case then remove the plastic handnuts that
hold the lid to the segment case and screw down the bottom of the telescoping legs in
their place.
• When the legs are positioned, lock off the telescoping legs.
• The dish may be moved a limited distance with the legs fitted. To do so, release all of
the telescoping legs and move the antenna as required. If a large amount of movement
is needed then the leg bases may need to be repositioned.
• If the struts are being used with their spreader plates then the plates should be held
down ideally by staking or pegging the plates to the ground, or by placing ballast (sand
bags or similar) on top of the spreader plates.
• If the struts are fixed to the segment case then the segment case should be tied down to
the ground using the case handles and/or the antenna segment case filled with ballast.
• A combination of struts fixed to the segment case and to the ground may be used if
required.

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9.2 WIND STRUT ASSEMBLY

Figure 2.4 Figure 2.5

Figure 2.7 a Figure 2.7 b

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Figure 2.9 Figure 2.12 a

Figure 2.12 b Figure 2.12 c

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10. APPENDIX C
10.1 OPERATION

Section 4.1.1a

Section 4.1.1b Section 4.1.1c

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Section 4.2.1 Section 4.2.1

Section 4.2.1 Section 4.3.1

Section 4.3.1 Section 4.4.1

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11. APPENDIX D
11.1 DISMANTLING

Section 5.1.2 Section 5.1.3

Section 5.1. Section 5.2.9

5.2.10 Section 5.2.12

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12. APPENDIX E
Table of Polarisation settings to align to Feedarm 45° to Geostationary arc

Longitude 80°W 70°W 60°W 50°W 40°W 30°W 20°W 10°W 0° 10°E 20°E 30°E 40°E 50°E 60°E 70°E 80°E
Difference.

Lattidue (N/S)

70° - - 18° 16° 13° 10° 7° 4° 0° -4° -7° -10° -13° -16° -18° - -
60° - 29° 27° 24° 21° 16° 11° 6° 0° -6° -11° -16° -21° -24° -27° -29° -
50° - 39° 36° 33° 29° 23° 16° 8° 0° -8° -16° -23° -29° -33° -36° -39° -
40° - 49° 46° 43° 38° 31° 22° 12° 0° -12° -22° -31° -38° -43° -46° -49° -
30° - 59° 57° 53° 48° 41° 31° 17° 0° -17° -31° -41° -48° -53° -57° -59° -
20° 70° 69° 67° 65° 61° 54° 43° 26° 0° -26° -43° -54° -61° -65° -67° -69° -70°

10° 80° 80° 79° 77° 75° 71° 63° 45° 0° -45° -63° -71° -75° -77° -79° -80° -80°

0° 90° 90° 90° 90° 90° 90° 90° 90° 0° -90° -90° -90° -90° -90° -90° -90° -90°

Longitude Difference. Satellite longitude relative to user longitude position.

Latitude. User latitude position. North or south.
Polarisation angles are relative to the local vertical.
Polarisation sign. Looking from behind the dish towards the satellite positive angles are clockwise.

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13. FIGURES
FIGURE 1 – MANTIS 240 ANTENNA DEPLOYED (FRONT VIEW)

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FIGURE 2 – MANTIS 240 ANTENNA DEPLOYED (REAR VIEW)

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