20-62 VHF / UHF Transmitter with Ethernet PRODUCT MANUAL Version 1.3.3 June 2020 Copyright © 2020 Sea Air and Land Communications Ltd. All rights reserved.
Page |1 Warranty and Disclaimer Salcom products are warranted for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase against faulty materials and workmanship. If any fault should occur, the unit should be returned to the vendor, freight pre-paid. Please include a description of the fault to assist with prompt return. Any unauthorised alterations or repairs will invalidate the warranty. We reserve the right to change products, specifications, and installation data at any time, without notice.
Page |2 Contents Warranty and Disclaimer ........................................................................................................................... 1 Product Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 3 Connectors and Indicators ....................................................................................................................... 5 Physical Dimensions ......................
Page |3 Product Overview The Salcom 20-62 is a 5 Watt, stand-alone FSK transmitter with a POCSAG encoder and external NRZ input. Models are available for the VHF or UHF bands. Each model covers its full specified frequency range without the need for any mechanical adjustments or additional calibration. The output power level can be programmed from 50mW to 5W. Key Features: • POCSAG encoder: The 20-62 provides a built-in POCSAG encoder, supporting 512 and 1200 baud with numeric and alphanumeric messages.
Page |4 • Simulcast modulation delay: A simulcast synchronizing delay can be applied to externally generated NRZ data. This delay can be configured to be between 10uS and 2550uS to account for a difference in propagation delay in overlapping coverage areas. Note that this features uses a different modulation input pin to the undelayed NRZ modulation input.
Page |5 Connectors and Indicators Table 1: Connectors and Indications (L-R) Item Description 1 12V Supply 2 Transmit LED (Red) 3 Power LED (Green) 4 USB 5 Inputs (RJ45) 6 Serial ports x 2 (RJ12) 7 Ethernet Table 2: Serial Connector (RJ12/6) Pin Connection Table 3: Input connector (RJ45) Pin Connection 1 Ground 1 PTT OUT, 50mA max 2 Reserved 2 Ground 3 RS232 Port 2 TX 3 Trigger Input 4 4 RS232 Port 2 RX 4 Trigger Input 3 5 RS232 Port 1 TX 5 Trigger Input 2 6 RS232 P
Page |6 Physical Dimensions The 20-62 has an extruded aluminum case with a mounting flange and screw slots. A dimensioned drawing is provided below.
Page |7 20-62 Installation and Quick Start Guide Power Supply Power is connected to the green “Power” connector on the front panel with the polarity as shown. Nominal supply voltage is 13.8V DC, but may vary between 10.8V and 15V. The power source must be reasonably noise free. The 20-62 is protected against reversed polarity. Antenna Installation The antenna is connected to the SMA connector on the rear panel.
Page |8 USB serial port The USB connector provides a standard USB serial port. In many cases drivers may already be included with your computer, however if a driver is required it can be downloaded from Silicon Labs: https://www.silabs.com/products/development-tools/software/usb-to-uart-bridge-vcp-drivers … or search for the CP210x USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers Download the driver for your version of Windows. The downloaded file is usually a ZIP file. Open this file and run CP210xVCPInstaller_x64.
Page |9 Salcom Protocol Salcom protocol takes the basic form: PPXXXXXXX L MMMMMM Where: • • • • • • • • PP is either “CA”, “CN”, “ca” or “ca”. Capital letters denote 512 baud, lower case denotes 1200 baud “A” denotes Alphanumeric, “N” denotes Numeric XXXXXXX is a 7 digit CAPcode. Spaces as shown L is the function code (beep level) from 1 to 4. MMMMM is the message (up to 240 characters). is a carriage return (enter key).
P a g e | 10 Sacoto Configuration Tool - Quick Start Guide Sa-co-to (Salcom-configuration-tool) is Salcom’s configuration software. This tool replaces the serial commands used with older products for product configuration. Serial commands are available if required for systems that may need to change configuration independently of the Sacoto software. Installation The latest version of Sacoto can be downloaded from the Salcom website from the 20-62 product page.
P a g e | 11 Starting Sacato This is the opening screen of an early version of Sacoto. Later versions may vary but these essential elements should remain much the same. Device Menu These functions can also be accessed from the “Device” menu. Help! Advanced configuration information and general help can be found under the “Help” menu. A brief description of each field is shown when the mouse is over each setting.
P a g e | 12 Sacoto Connection Settings Choose “Device > Set up Device” from the menu or Click the “Device settings” icon to open the setup window. Serial Port Settings For USB port, physical RS-232 port on PC, or third party USBto-Serial adaptor. • • • • Device: 20-62 Interface: Serial Serial port: Identify the COM port associated with your serial connection Other setting can be left as the default settings.
P a g e | 13 Configuring the 20-62 using Sacoto Reading the configuration The initial configuration must be read from the 20-62 or from a file saved on disk. This may then be modified as required and written back to the 20-62. Sacoto configuration screen after reading data from the 20-62 or from a file. The configuration is arranged into various tabs along the top. Many of these are for advanced functions or for specific protocols.
P a g e | 14 Writing the Configuration Write Changes If a field is changed it will be highlighted in yellow. Any tabs with fields that have changed will also be highlighted in yellow. Select “Device->Write Changes” from the menu, or Click the “Write changes” icon to write ONLY the fields highlighted in yellow. This is much quicker than writing everything.
P a g e | 15 Frequency and Power Settings These are found under the Transmitter tab. Frequency: Entered in MHz. This is checked against the selected channel spacing. Off-channel frequencies are not possible. Channel Spacing: The 20-62 can only transmit on channels which are multiples of 5 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 10 kHz or 12.5 kHz. This setting is only used for frequency selection and does not affect transmitter deviation or bandwidth. Deviation: This is independent of the selected channel spacing.
P a g e | 16 Trigger Input Configuration The 20-62 can be configured to transmit messages in response to the state of the trigger inputs. Features: • • • • • • • • • A message can be triggered by a high-to-low or a low-to-high transition. A message may be sent multiple times from a single trigger event to ensure reliable reception. The message repeat time can be specified. The input messages can be transmitted with the watchdog timer to indicate the current state.
P a g e | 17 Configuring inputs: • • • • Messages for high or low states can be configured independently. Each input can be configured independently. The message format is described below (Sacoto message format). The number of transmission, the expected initial state, and other options can be selected for each input and each state. Input configuration examples: The various input capabilities and settings can be demonstrated by way of these examples.
P a g e | 18 Sacoto Message Format The Sacoto message format is based on the Salcom protocol, which includes baud rate, Numerial/Alphernumeric message type, CAPcode, function code and the message text. • • • • • The 20-62 can transmit at 512 or 1200 baud. The message may be Alphanumeric (full ASCII) or Numeric (just numbers and a few symbols for faster transmission). The CAP code is the 7 digit pager address from 0000008 to 2000000 (plus special codes) The Function code can be set from 1 to 4.
P a g e | 19 Example battery and watchdog configuration The battery and watchdog messages are configured through the System tab in Sacoto, on the Messages sub-tab. Move the mouse over any field to see a brief description of its function. In this example: • • • • • • • A “Battery low” message is triggered if the battery voltage drops below 11.2V A “Battery good” message is triggered if the battery voltage rises above 12.
P a g e | 20 Ethernet Configuration Ethernet configuration is done through the TCP/IP tab. IP address, Port and Subnet To use the Ethernet port the 20-62 must be configured with a valid IP address on your network. See “Selecting an IP address” below. In addition to the IP address, an Ethernet connection requires a “port” number, as there may be many “ports” available at an IP address, each corresponding to a different connection on the device.
P a g e | 21 Selecting an IP address Selecting a valid IP address for the 20-62 to use on your network will depend on how your network is configured. If you have a network administrator they may be able to assist with the selection and reservation of a valid IP address on their network. Typically the 20-62 IP address will be valid only on your local network. IP addresses on your network will be managed according to how the network is set up.
P a g e | 22 Reading the 20-62 IP address To read the IP address assigned to the 20-62 by a DHCP server, read the configuration from the 20-62 and open the TCP/IP tab. The new address will be in the Static or Current IP address field. You can use this address as long as it remains valid on the network. Finding your PC’s IP address If you are using the 20-62 in client mode, you will need to know the IP address of your PC so the 20-62 can connect to it.
P a g e | 23 Salcom UDP/TCP Test Tool Salcom provides a simple tool for testing TCP/IP and UDP Ethernet connections. This can be downloaded from the Salcom website under the 20-62 product page. This tool may be used to: • • • Establish and test connections, Send serial commands, Initiate paging messages. Testing a connection ➢ If the 20-62 is configured as a server, the test tool should be a client.
P a g e | 24 Virtual Serial Port over Ethernet Third party software, such as USR-VCOM, can create a virtual COM port on your computer and connect it to the 20-62 over the Ethernet. This allows you to access the 20-62 via the Ethernet in the same way you would access a physical RS-232 port or USB serial port. This virtual COM port can be used to send paging messages and serial commands but it cannot be used with Sacoto.
P a g e | 25 Configuring a Virtual serial port ➢ Click “Add COM” ➢ Select the new port number to assign to the virtual COM port ➢ If the 20-62 is a TCP server, you must configure the virtual COM port as a TCP client. ➢ Enter the IP address and port number of the 20-62 ➢ Click OK ➢ Turn on the 20-62 and ensure the Ethernet is connected. ➢ The “Net State” should show “connected” when a connection has been established.
P a g e | 26 Store & forward systems Overview In a store and forward system one transmitter is the “source” (originating transmitter) while other transmitters are paired with a receiver at a distant location and are used to re-transmit the received messages on the same channel to increase the coverage area. Several issues can arise in a store and forward system: 1. The originating transmitter must wait for repeaters to retransmit the message to avoid transmitting at the same time as the repeater.
P a g e | 27 Cross band repeaters Where a repeater is used to repeat messages from one band to another, the transmitter is not on the same frequency as the receiver so there are no issues with message loops. The repeater does not need to ignore message while transmitting, or reject duplicate messages.
P a g e | 28 Simulcast Modulation Delay Overview Simulcast systems are used to allow multiple transmitters on the same frequency to provide an extended coverage area. In such a system there may be areas covered by more than one transmitter, and these signals may interfere with each other. Normally the stronger signal would overpower the weaker one, but in overlap areas which of the two signals is strongest may change rapidly with movement and environmental changes.
P a g e | 29 Testing Modulation Delay • • • • When correctly configured, and the external PTT pin is pulled low, the green LED will light solidly. Connecting an oscilloscope to the green LED will show that the LED is in fact toggling every 10uS. If this test signal is not present, the feature will not operate. Delayed modulated data is transmitted through the same internal path as internally generated POCSAG data. The delayed data is also presently to the red LED.
P a g e | 30 Over-Temperature Cutout Overview If the transmitter operates for extended periods in a hot environment, a protective thermal cutout may operate to reduce the output power to a safe level. It will reset when the unit temperature has fallen below 75 degrees Celsius. Operation Prior to the transmitter powering up, the NTC on-board resistor is checked. If the transmitter is above 75 degrees Celsius the maximum power level is limited to 1 watt.
P a g e | 31 Aerial Mismatch Overview The aerial mismatch feature of the 20-62, when enabled, allows changes to the aerial, changes in RF output level and changes in drive to the power amplifier to be monitored. Based on the test result performed on each transmission an error message can be returned, along with control over the error output. This feature allows reporting when an aerial is disconnected or damaged.
P a g e | 32 In very rare cases a mismatched aerial may not be detected. This is because depending upon the length of the coaxial cable the impedance presented (varying with frequency and power setting) may appear to be suitably matched within the limits set by the command used above. This condition is close to impossible to detect in some cases using any method of detection (other than using a remote receiver to monitor signal strength).
P a g e | 33 Antenna Selection and Installation When installing your Salcom product solution it is recommended to site the aerial at least a few metres away from the unit to avoid the possibility of RF feedback and causing potential problems with the transmitter operation. An external (outside) aerial is preferable and will provide better radio coverage. A suitable antenna, such as ground independent half wave, is connected to the unit via the SMA connector on the end plate of the unit.
P a g e | 34 Supported Messaging Protocols The 20-62 supports various messaging protocols, as listed below. In some cases only a key subset of the full protocol is supported. Supported protocols: Salcom TAP (PET/IXO) TNPP Visicad TPP (half) TPP (full) Flex ESPA 4.4.
P a g e | 35 Protocol Descriptions Salcom protocol is designed to optimize control, provide access to the full functionality of Salcom products, and to provide a simple way to integrate Salcom products. Telelocator Alphanumeric Protocol (TAP) is an industry-standard protocol for sending short messages via a land-line modem to a provider of pager and/or SMS services, for onward transmission to pagers and mobile phones. TAP defines an industry standard for sending alphanumeric messages to pagers.
P a g e | 36 Gent is Honeywell’s open protocol that allows their fire system components to communicate with each other. Their open protocol allows flexibility in the choice of products that can be integrated into their solutions, including the Salcom 20-62. GPS and Pulse Count protocol is used for irrigation equipment transmitters. The protocol allows the 20-62 to be connected to a GPS receiver.
P a g e | 37 Trouble Shooting The following table may help in problem solving where necessary. Fault Solution No illumination of Green LED Check power supply and connection Input activated but no transmission Check and write input configuration in Sacoto.
P a g e | 38 Glossary Definition ASCII: Acronym for "American standard code for information interchange," a 7 bit code representing upper and lower case letters, numbers, punctuation, control codes, and other special symbols. The term “ASCII” typically refers to the character set and control codes this code represents. SMA connector: A standard miniature RF connector. Not to be confused with “Reverse SMA” often used with WIFI.
P a g e | 39 Accessories and Related Products Name Description Part Number RS-232 Port 1 adaptor An RJ-12 to DB9 (RS-232) adaptor and cable for connection to the 20-62 RS-232 port 1 12-45-0000 RS-232 Port 2 adaptor An RJ-12 to DB9 (RS-232) adaptor and cable for connection to the 20-62 RS-232 port 2 12-45-2000 RJ12 serial cable splitter Standard 6P6C RJ-12 splitter and cable to allow connection to serial port 1 and serial port 2 at the same time.
P a g e | 40 Technical Specifications Technical Specification 20-62 – VHF / UHF Transmitter Frequency Range 140 - 174MHz - VHF 427.5 - 475MHz - UHF Frequency Selection User configurable Power Supply +13.8V typical (11 to 15 VDC range) Power Consumption Standby: 60mA (90mA when connected to Ethernet) Transmit: 1.0A @ 5W (typical) Transmit Power 5W, 2W, 1W, 500mW, 100mW, 50mW +/- 1dB. (custom values on request) Channel Spacing 5kHz, 6.25kHz, 10kHz, 12.
P a g e | 41 Technical Specification 20-62 – VHF / UHF Transmitter Operating Temperature -20ºC to +50ºC (-4ºF to +122ºF) Indicators Power LED (Green) - Slow Flashing = Normal Operation Status LED (Red) - On = Transmitting - Flashing (3 times/sec for 7 secs) = Error Condition Weight 320g Enclosure Dimensions 130mm x 31mm x 128mm (WxDxH) (5.12 x 1.23 x 5.04 in) Enclosure Material Extruded aluminium Colour Bright silver anodised aluminium Type Approvals AS/NZS 4769.
P a g e | 42 How to Contact Us Sea Air and Land Communications (Salcom) Ltd 10 Vanadium Place Addington Christchurch 8024 New Zealand T: +64 (0)3 379 2298 W: www.salcom.com E: sales@salcom.com Salcom is pleased to confirm that it is a New Zealand FernMark Licensee. The FernMark Licence Programme is the Government’s official ‘country of origin’ accreditation programme, designed to protect and promote New Zealand products to the world.
P a g e | 43 20-62 VHF & UHF TRANSMITTER Product Manual Sea Air and Land Communications Ltd, 10 Vanadium Place, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand June 2020
