PUBL Issue3. OPERATORS MANUAL - Transceiver MP20. Communication System OPERATORS MANUAL TRANSCEIVER MP20

Transcription

1 PUBL Issue3 Communication System OPERATORS MANUAL TRANSCEIVER MP20

2 1.0 System Description 1.1 The MP20 is a portable waterproof transceiver for wireless communication with the aircraft crew while operating inside or outside of the aircraft. The MP 20 can be connected to the winch man s helmet, or used as a hand held Walkie-Talkie. It is part of a complete communication system, comprising a Base Station installed in the aircraft, interfacing the aircraft s Intercom System. 1.2 The system provides either radio or intercom two-way voice communications between the helicopter crew and SAR winch man, whilst the winch man is either outside the aircraft during winching operations or remote from the aircraft. 1.3 The system operates on a single UHF band configuration. 1.4 The system has been designed for minimum weight, size and power consumption, combined with the ruggedness and functionality required to meet the demanding environmental conditions typical for its operational use. 1.5 The portable transceiver will interface with the winch man s helmet to permit hands free communication. In addition the transceiver will provide two-way communication, as a standalone unit, when the helmet is not worn. 1.6 The portable transceiver will enable UHF communications with the aircraft mounted Base Station and integrate with the aircraft ICS. 1.7 The Base Station radio will normally be aircraft powered and permanently installed in the aircraft. The unit may be supplied with a cabinet mounted antenna, or it may be connected to an externally mounted antenna. An external antenna is recommended for maximum range. 1.8 As an option, the unit may also be equipped with an optional battery unit. In this set up it may be used as a temporary plug in/plug out solution connected to any intercom outlet. It may also be left outside the helicopter as a repeater station in a mobile communication network. 1.9 The portable radio should be mounted in a pocket in the Life Preserver or a harness to allow for hands free operation The system will, with unit-mounted antenna, permit two-way communications at ranges of up to 5 kilometres line of sight and up to 5,000 feet altitude between the aircraft and winch- man. With the base station connected to an externally mounted antenna, the range will be considerably extended (up to km) Through the transceivers integral microphone, the system enables communication with the survivor/ ground rescue party without helmet removal. 2 PUB Issue 3

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Description 4 Illustration and dimensions 6 Operation 7 General Care and Maintenance 10 Illustrated Parts List 11 PUB Issue 3 3

4 DESCRIPTION The Polycon Transceiver is designed to meet the stringent quality requirements for equipment used under demanding conditions typically for helicopter search and rescue operations, as well as other activities which often take place under extreme operational and environmental conditions. The Transceiver is designed for functional integrity, providing ease of operation, while at the same time safeguarding against interruptions caused by unintentional operation. The unit provides a multi-function PTT key, letting the user access several standard radio functions. The unit may be used both as a dedicated waterproof intercom for SAR (Search And Rescue) operations, and as a standard walkie-talkie radio. The traditional PTT switch normally connected to a communications cord is no longer needed. The radio incorporates the PTT switch/security. NIVOX The Polycon transceiver is equipped with the special VOX function called NIVOX (Non Interrupted Voice Operated X-mission). Conventional Voice Operated Switches (VOX) will introduce a delay before opening for voice transmission, traditionally heard as clipping the first syllable in the transmission. This is exacerbated when opening the communication line through a series of systems, from transmitter to receiver, and aircraft intercom system, causing a chain of delays and further speech loss. Frequencies The Polycon systems are supplied, factory programmed, with up to 16 channels within the frequency ranges of 408, ,600 MHz and 418, ,600 MHz, to meet the customer s operational requirements. These channels must be discussed with Axnes Aviation AS and selected during the purchasing phase of acquiring the system and be authorized by your radio licensing authority. 4 PUB Issue 3

5 The special design provides the following features: Easily available PTT function Pre programmed NIVOX / PTT function automatically activated when radio is turned on. (When headset is connected) NIVOX function overridden when front PTT key is first operated. Protected channel select buttons. (Will not change with accidental contact) Low profile antenna Built-in loudspeaker and microphone for hand held radio operation (Walkie-Talkie). Intercom from integral microphone to helmet earphones. Side mounted PTT key for hand held radio operation (Walkie-Talkie) Automatic override of internal loudspeaker and microphone when connected to helmet/headset. Side-Tone function. (Headset microphone is heard in earphones) Built-in amplification for headset microphone. Rugged and Salt water resistant aluminium enclosure. Waterproof to 1 meter Pressure equalizing actuator Optional Dual Band (UHF/VHF) radio module Optional low profile dual band antenna Functions Front/Side Panel Up/Down channel selection buttons (16 channels) Loudspeaker and microphone. Front PTT key only in function when headset is connected. Side PTT key for hand held radio operation (Walkie- Talkie). Side mounted ON/OFF and volume control buttons The radio may be programmed through the headset connector by use of a PC. This operation is only to be executed by qualified personnel. Enclosure Arrangement: The transceiver is designed with all control buttons flush mounted to the cabinet, protecting them from both damage and accidental operation, whilst the form and position of the front PTT key enables it to be operated with a wide variety of grip positions. Functions - Top Panel Multi-pin connector for headset/helmet operation and software programming. LED display. Illuminates selected channel for 3-5 seconds after button operation. Power on and TX indication on display. Actuator for pressure equalization is manually operated Low profile antenna PUB Issue 3 5

6 Illustration and dimensions POLYCON MP 20 Waterproof Transceiver 16 channels Watt. HELMET / HEADSET Display TOP VIEW Pressure Equalising Actuator MULTI CONNECTOR For helmet connection. And software programming Socket: Fisher DBEU1031A (Plug: Fisher SE1031A ) LOW PROFILE ANTENNA Single Band Anchor point for securing cord ANT Display UHF 23 mm Channel Tap Selectors PWR: ON Volume: UP Mic. (Walkie-Talkie) Volume: DOWN PWR: OFF Loudspeaker (Walkie-Talkie). PTT Side button. When used as hand held radio Walkie-Talkie) FRONT PTT only in function when headset is connected. PTT Button PTT AND VOX FUNCTION With helmet/headset connected: Switch ON the radio The VOX function is activated Change over to PTT function Press the FRONT PTT button, and the VOX function is de-activated. 112 mm RIGHT SIDE VIEW FRONT VIEW Return to VOX Press and hold both the side PTT and Front PTT simultaneously for about 3 seconds. 65,5 mm 35,0 BATTERY CAPACITY: Stand by capacity: 14 hrs Receive capacity: 8 hrs Transmit capacity: 1.5 continous. (0.5W) Contacts for charger module. BOTTOM VIEW 6 PUB Issue 3

7 OPERATION Power Up Sequence Press the side mounted ON/Volume up button to switch the transceiver on. This will conduct a self-test sequence, establishing the following settings: Normal Transmitting Power Level AGC (Automatic Gain Control) as set before last Power Down Squelch as set before last Power Down Volume to Power up volume setting NIVOX or PTT mode as programmed The channel used as set before last Power Down Select NIVOX or PTT default. PTT default: Press and hold the front PTT button simultaneously with power button ON. The radio is now permanently programmed in PTT mode. To return to NIVOX: Press and hold both the side PTT button and Front PTT button simultaneously for about 5 seconds. The function will be indicated by a signal tone. NIVOX default: Press and hold the side PTT button simultaneously with power ON. The radio is now permanently programmed in standard operation mode. The last used channel will be displayed for about 3 to 5 seconds following by the Operational Pattern to show it is ready. Operational Pattern The 2 central segments illuminated and flashing When the radio is to be used as walkie-talkie, without a headset connected, the side mounted PTT key is used, and the internal loudspeaker and microphone are automatically activated. Once a headset is connected, the internal loudspeaker and microphone are de-activated. ON/OFF and Volume Buttons The ON, OFF and Volume can be controlled by two buttons located on the side of the cabinet. The upper button controls the ON- and Volume-UP function, while the lower button controls the Volume-DOWN and OFF function. By pressing the On/Volume UP button, the transceiver will be switched on, to a preset Power up volume setting. From this level the volume can be increased either by rapid step-by-step pushes, or by holding the button while the volume increases. The increasing volume will be confirmed with a rising beep tone, and correspondingly a decreasing beep tone when adjusting the volume down. When adjusting the volume down, the lowest level (0) will be indicated with a short beep tone, and a long beep tone will indicate, and activate the power OFF sequence. NIVOX/PTT Operation The NIVOX (Non Interrupted Voice Operated X-mission) or PTT function is automatically activated to the default setting (see above) when the unit is switched ON and a headset is connected. The operator can change modes (PTT to NIVOX or NIVOX to PTT) at any time during operation. The operation of the front PTT button will cancel the NIVOX function and permit manual keying (PTT). To return to NIVOX, press and hold both the side PTT and Front PTT simultaneously for about 5 seconds. (Alternatively the transceiver can be re-initialised by turning it OFF and ON again or by disconnecting and connecting the helmet/headset plug). In NIVOX mode, the transceiver will be activated by a modulated signal, and stays open for a pre-programmed hang time. Noise input will be defined as unwanted and the transceiver will automatically be switched off. A modulated input signal will again activate the transceiver. Side PTT button Without helmet/headset connected this PTT button works in walkie-talkie mode. Side PTT button PP function - One way helmet intercom or acoustic valve enables Polycon user wearing a noise attenuating helmet to hear nearby conversation. The transceiver can be programmed as follows: By operating the side PTT as a toggle switch and with helmet/ headset connected to the transceiver, speech from a person nearby / ambient conversation can be transmitted via the radio s integral microphone to the helmet/headset earphones. In this function the helmet/headset microphone will still be activated, and the volume from incoming voice through the radio receiver will be reduced. Conversation in this mode of, One way helmet intercom will not be transmitted. PUB Issue 3 7

8 Side PTT / Front PTT button With helmet/headset connected, this button works in association with the large PTT button to select NIVOX. Press and hold these two buttons simultaneously until the tone indicates that NIVOX is selected. Front PTT button With helmet/headset connected, this button cancels the NIVOX and transmits to the base station. This button will have no PTT function when the helmet / headset is disconnected, but will activate the display to show selected channel information. Channel buttons 16 channels may be pre programmed and changed stepwise UP and DOWN. Push the button once, the active channel will be displayed, and push the button twice, and the channel will change. The last channel will be activated with power up. Inverted display (Mirror) Push the two channel selector buttons simultaneously to invert the display. Useful when the radio is chest worn in a pouch, so winch-man can see channel selected. Squelch - The squelch can be adjusted by pushing the large PTT button and simultaneously operate the Volume-UP or Volume-DOWN buttons. (The squelch operation range from: 0.26μV 200mV). The normal squelch setting between (0.4μV - 1.2μV). Automatic Gain Control (AGC) The microphone signal gain is automatically adjusted in relation to the strength of the voice. For instance if the operator is shouting, the microphone gain will be adjusted down, while a whispering voice will increase the gain. Engage/disengage of this function is executed by simultaneously pushing the ON and OFF buttons. The mode ON or OFF is visible in the display while the buttons are pushed. Analogue Trigger Level (NIVOX Threshold) The NIVOX threshold, or the level for the voice to activate the transmitter in relation to the ambient noise level, is called the Analogue Trigger Level (AL). This has a factory-preset level between 70 and 80, but can be adjusted through the MENU Mode. The adjusted value needs to be above 50. The function of continual transmission starts between with helmet/ headset connected, or a single microphone connected to the microphone line input. This function is useful for external PTT operation activated by switching the microphone line. Output Power Settings The Transceiver will have a standard power output at 300mW. An emergency full power output setting at 500mW is available through the MENU Mode. These levels can be pre selected by a computer. (The emergency level is to increase the communication distance in a critical situation). Pressure Equalizing Actuator Rapid or significant changes in altitude may make the PTT button difficult to depress or may unintentionally activate the transmitter due to negative pressure within the transceiver. To overcome this, the Pressure Equalising Actuator, located on the top of the transmitter, should be manually operated by sliding the rubber knob hard centre core to one side with a finger. The pressure inside and outside of the transceiver will be equalised, see illustration below. To prevent the front PTT from being operated by pressure differences, the actuator pressure is preset to gr. measured with a pressure difference set to zero. Sideways pressure to activate the Equalizing. Cabinet CAUTION Do not operate the Pressure Equalizing Actuator when exposed to water MENU Mode Settings The Transceiver is configured with standard system settings from the manufacturer. All critical settings are software controllable by means of a PC connected to the Multi Connector on the transceiver top panel. In addition, a number of system settings are accessible from the Transceiver Menu Mode. In standard configuration, the following two system settings can be adjusted from the MENU Mode. (Due to a 7 segment display, there will be a mix of upper and lower case letters.) n.p. E.P. - Power output (switch between operational normal and emergency power) A.L. Analogue Level (NIVOX Threshold) MENU Mode Procedure Enter the Menu Mode by simultaneously pushing the Channel and Volume, or the Channel and Volume buttons. Two illuminated dots in the display indicates In Menu Mode Switch between Menu Modes by repeatedly pushing the 8 PUB Issue 3

9 Channel selectors. Stop at desired mode After a short time the display will change from the mode indication to the current setting. Adjust the settings by means of Volume buttons. or Volume Push side PTT button for return to normal operation. ILLUSTRATION: TX Power Outputs Normal Power Batteries Emergency Power Analogue trigger level for NIVOX. Normal value 70 (factory setting) Adjust if neccesary in noisy environments The transceiver is equipped with Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. The 8 cell battery package gives 4.8 V nom. and 1460mA. A low battery warning tone (frequent blip) will be heard at approx. 7% of full battery capacity. Helmet/Headset connection Connect the helmet/headset to the 10 pin connector on the transceiver top panel. Align the two red marks on the plug and receptacle and push fully home until the plug locks. The plug cannot be removed by pulling on the wire, but must be unlocked by pulling the outer case of the plug, releasing the locking mechanism, Pin configuration Transceiver socket connection Pin 1 Mic. + >> 2 Mic. - >> 3 Speaker + >> 4 Speaker - >> 5 GND >> 6 Data PC Programming >> 7 Data PC Programming >> 8 Intercom. Sense >> 9 Reduced Power Output (4.8 V) >> 10 AUX Data rail to rail transmission. Input 3 4 For the radio to sense the headset/helmet connection, the DC current through the microphone line ( pin 1 and 2 ) is to be arranged. The DC resistance trough the microphone line is required to be less than 10 kω. NOTE that some types of electret microphones change their DC resistance when subjected to very high sound input. These variations of the DC resistance make high impedance and break through the threshold of the headset/helmet operation mode. In this situation the PTT mode can be changed back to NIVOX mode when unwanted. If this situation occurs, the microphone would have to be changed to a type of lower impedance Transceiver Charging The transceiver must be charged using the Polycon P/N CHG 1236 M/S CHARGING UNIT. The charging cradle is designed to fit the transceiver and to keep the transceiver stable and secure while charging. A green indicator in the charger will illuminate during charging, and will start flashing when the charging cycle is complete, and the transceiver is fully charged. MAKE SURE THE TRANSCEIVER IS SWITCED OFF DURING CHARGING. If fully discharged during operation, the transceiver will need to be shut off after the first few minutes of charging to ensure a correct charging cycle. PUB Issue 3 9

10 GENERAL CARE AND MAINTENANCE The transceiver unit should always be thoroughly cleaned and stored in a dry and ventilated location. After use, immersion in salt water or exposure to salt laden or dusty atmosphere, the transceiver must be washed in clean running water and dried off with a soft cloth. Plug connections should be blown dry with clean dry air (low pressure) and protected with acid-free Silicone grease Type NOVA G624 or similar after drying. Always recharge the transceiver after use. Although the connector arrangement is a waterproof type, under certain circumstances it is possible for water to seep between the plug and the socket, causing undesirable interference. This may be avoided by liberal application of silicone grease. Do not carry the transceiver by the helmet/headset connecting lead. Do not try to disconnect the helmet/headset transceiver connector by snatching or pulling the lead. The transceiver should be secured to the vest or pocket by means of a securing cord connected to the dedicated anchor point on the transceiver back plate. The radio including the batteries, are capable of immediate use following storage in its shipment package for up to 2 years at temperatures within the range -40 C to +50 C. However the equipment should first allow being acclimatised to within the operational temperature range (-25 C to +55 C). The MP20 should be serviced by an Axnes Aviation certified repair centre on a regular basis. It is recommended to have the unit looked after every 2 years at a minimum. Depending on use and operating environment, the unit might need to be serviced on shorter intervals. For service details and information, please contact your helicopter manufacturer or the place of purchase. For other inquires, please contact the Axnes Aviation AS: Ph FAX post@axnes.com 10 PUB Issue 3

11 NOTES PUB Issue 3 11

12 Axnes Aviation AS Televeien 3, 4879 Grimstad NORWAY Ph FAX