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DOCUMENTATION HANDBOOK VK3UM AUTOTRACK Version 5:10 Nov 1993 INDEX Para Section Page 1.0 Introduction ............................... 2 2.0 Hardware requirements ...................... 3 3.0 Software requirements ...................... 3 4.0 Main Menu .................................. 4 5.0 Main Menu Options .......................... 4 6.0 Tracking Modes ............................. 4 6.1 Real Time Track ....................... 4 6.2 Auto Track ............................ 5 6.3 Graph Track ........................... 6 7.0 General Set Up ............................. 10 7.1 Home Location Change .................. 11 7.2 Summer/Winter Time .................... 11 7.3 Operating Frequency ................... 11 7.4 UTC/Local Computer Time ............... 11 7.5 Display Source Target ................. 11 7.6 Transmit Sequence ..................... 11 7.7 Period of Transmission ................ 11 7.8 Warning Sound On/Off................... 11 7.9 Save Set Up parameters ................ 11 7.10 Change Computer Time .................. 11 8.0 Auto Track Set Up .......................... 11 8.1 Mode Selection Analog/Digital/Pulse ... 11 8.2 Digital Set Up Parameters ............. 12 8.3 Analog Set Up Parameters .............. 12 Motor Run On .......................... 12 8.4 Pulse Set Up Parameters ............... 12 8.5 Home (Park) Position of Antennae ...... 14 8.6 Azimuth Motor Hysteresis .............. 14 8.7 Elevation Motor Hysteresis ............ 14 8.8 Drive Update Period ................... 14 8.9 End Stops of Antennae ................. 14 8.10 Communication Port .................... 15 8.11 Antennae Mount ........................ 15 8.12 Motor Speed Control ................... 15 8.13 Save Parameters to Disk ............... 15 9.0 Printed Circuit Board Interconnect .......... 16 10.0 Component List and Sources .................. 18 11.0 Check Out Procedure ......................... 20 12.0 Summary ..................................... 22 12.1 Printed Circuit Board Changes ......... 23 13.0 ADDENDUM OF FUNCTION KEYS USED .............. 23 13.1 Real Time Track Screen ................. 23 13.2 Auto Track Screen ...................... 23 13.3 Graphic Screen ......................... 24 13.4 Target Screen Options via [F2] ......... 24 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Software was developed primarily as an aid for Amateur Radio Operators wishing to communicate by reflecting signals off the Moon. This communication mode is commonly referred to as EME. (Earth -Moon - Earth). The facilities provided by this software, when used with the VK3UM Serial Interface controller attached to your Computer, will allow you to automatically track the Moon, (or any other Quiet or Noise Source). The Software and Hardware has been designed to suit Analog, Digital and Pulse Tracking Systems and may be used in both Hemispheres. Facilities are provided to Graph Noise, and Moon Echos. You can also store these graphs on disk and recall them at a latter date. Moreover the graphs may be overlaid for comparison purposes. Printing of these graphs has also been provided. Help instructions are available for graphic facilities via [F1] within the Software. The Software is quite complex and is an on going project by the author. Not all the Authors' proposed facilities have been included at this stage (Automatic Polarisation Tracking for example). Accordingly when revisions become available they will be announced and distributed at a moderate cost. All options described in this document apply to this version of the software. It should be clearly understood that this Project is for Amateur purposes and should any bugs be found or you have suggestions for improvement please convey your correspondence to the following : Doug McArthur (VK3UM) 30 Rolloway Rise Chirnside Park Victoria 3116 AUSTRALIA Home Phone (61 3 7264484) Work FAX - 24Hrs (61 3 7286464) ** Inwards Only ** Note. I am +10 hours ahead of UTC. Again I stress that this is an Amateur project developed on a cost covered basis for the advancement of our Hobby. Unlike my EME PLANNER SOFTWARE that has been distributed free for many years, the cost of the very complex interface board has to be covered. 2.0 HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS This Software will only run with the associated Interface board. The board is complex and contains 20 "standard IC's", 8 miniature relays and transistors plus an assortment of capacitors and resistors. Because of the complexity it was decided to produce the board as a plated through hole (980!) fiber glass identity. A parts layout is provided to clearly identify placement of components. A circuit has not been provided as such is deemed unnecessary due to the simplistic nature of construction. It is recommended, but not essential, that IC sockets be used. Input and output connections are via standard IDC connectors. It is left to the user to package the unit as desired. A +5v regulator has been provided on the board (as well as reverse supply protection) for those that wish to feed the unit with an unregulated +7 - +10 volt supply. Total current, which is dependent upon the number of relays operated at the time, is approximately 350mA. 3.0 SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS IBM or a compatible XT/AT/286/386/486 configuration is necessary. The Graphic options used for graphing requires a EGA or VGA driven monitor. Auto Track is provided for monochrome, Hercules and CGA monitors however the extra graphing facilities are not available with these monitors. The software is "downward compatible" to EGA for higher resolution screens. (350x640 16 Colors). The program requires approximately 330k RAM to run. NOTE IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE INTERFACE CONNECTED AND YOU WISH TO RUN THE SOFTWARE THEN SELECT THE REAL TIME TRACK OPTION. THEN PRESS THE HOME KEY AND THE SOFTWARE WILL BE CONFIGURED TO THE DEMONSTRATION MODE. This will select the Pulse Mode with internally generated Pulses. To return to interface control exit the program and re-boot. 3.1.1 Software/Hardware Debugging Functions. These can only be selected from the Auto Track Screen but are used in the graphics screen. 3.1.2 [F1]. When in the AutoTrack Screen and when using the Pulse Mode, this will enable the display of Azimuth and Elevation Pulse Counts. Pressing [F1] again will disable this display. This is a useful option when calibrating your Pulse System if you are unsure of the number of pulses per degree. (pulses per 360 degrees is required to configure your input for the pulse mode). This is achieved by first turning on the pulse counter and running your drive over a known number of degrees of travel. The pulse count will indicate the number of pulses for that travel. Multiply the number of pulses by the number of degrees and you have the pulses per 360 degrees required in section 8.4. Note you can input decimal degrees. 3.1.3 Control[F1] will reset the Pulse Counter. 3.1.4 Shift[F1]. When in the AutoTrack Screen and when using the Pulse Mode, this facility will generate simulated pulses from within the Software without the need for an external pulse input. The one hundredth digit will turn red when internally generated pulses are selected. Pressing Shift[F1] again will return the control to the external pulse input. This facility can be used as a training aid to become familiar with the software and all the options provided. 4.0 MAIN MENU. After the opening Logo Screen the Main Menu Headings are displayed. The following sections provide the user with the information necessary to configure and interface your system to the hardware. Please read this carefully as the software is most comprehensive and abounds with many user options. The [F1] key provides the Version Number of the Software. 5.0 MAIN MENU OPTIONS. Selection of these options may be achieved by either moving the highlighted bar with the cursor keys (arrow keys) or by typing the first letter of that option required. For detailed description please refer to the following sections:- 6.0 Tracking Modes. 7.0 General Set Up. 8.0 Auto Track Set Up. 6.0 TRACKING MODES. Before running the various tracking modes please set all your parameters to suit your Station as detailed in Sections 7.0 and 8.0. This Sub Menu enables selection of the Tracking Mode desired. The Real Time Track option provides the location of the Tracking Source commensurate with your Computer Clock. The Auto Track Modes, in association with the Serial Interface, enable the automatic or manual control of the antennae. 6.1 Real Time Track. This option provides real time (Computer Set Time), calculations of Azimuth, Elevation, Doppler Shift for any "Tracking Source" (Moon - Sun - Noise), which may be chosen from General Set Up Sub Menu or [F2] from within this screen. This mode does not allow for automatic Antennae control as is provided in Auto Track. It does provide Azimuth/Elevation and Doppler Shift of the "Tracking Source" relative to your location and Computer Time. The screen will indicate both the Transmit (red) and Receive (blue) periods and sound a warning prior to the change over sequence. The Tx Sequence and Period as well as the bell may be set as desired in the General Set Up Menu. (refer 7.6 and 7.7). 6.1.1 [F2] key will allow you to select any of the available Target Sources available. The [TAB] key allows you to select additional noise sources. 6.1.2 [F3] key will allow you to input a DX Station's Grid Square. This will then provide a display, in the centre of the screen, of the Azimuth, Elevation, Doppler Shift and Spatial Offset of the distant station. The latter two displays will only be present if you both have coincident Moon. 6.2 Auto Track. This option provides Auto Tracking of any Target Source provided in the EME Software. The Auto Track Setup Menu allows you to configure the Software to suit both the Hardware Interface and your own specific Station requirement. The Antenna will then track the Target Source or you may manually steer the Array as desired. 6.2.1 [F1] will this will enable the display of Azimuth and Elevation Pulse Counts. This is a useful option when calibrating your Pulse System if you are unsure of the number of pulses per degree. This is achieved by first turning on the pulse counter and running your drive over a known number of degrees of travel. The pulse count will indicate the number of pulses for that travel. Multiply the number of pulses by the number of degrees and you have the pulses per degree and then translate this to the number of pulses per 360 degrees as required in section 8.4. Note you can input decimal degrees but the greater the travel will provide a higher order of accuracy. Pressing [F1] again will disable this display. (Pulse Mode only). 6.2.2 Shift[F1] will generate simulated pulses from within the Software without the need for an external pulse input. The one hundredth digit will turn red when internally generated pulses are selected. Pressing Shift[F1] again will return the control to the external pulse input. This facility is most useful as a training aid to become familiar with the software and all the options provided. (available only for Pulse Mode of operation). 6.2.3 Control[F1] will reset the Pulse Counter. (Pulse Mode only) 6.2.4 [F2] key will allow you to select any of the available Target Sources available or input a Azimuth Bearing. The positions of all the Targets are available on screen. This facility will also permit using a beacon as a source and plot a beam pattern or position the array to a known Az / El for Auroa or FAI transmissions. In addition you may input a Grid Square for terrestrial purposes. The software provides you with the Azimuth bearing and distance. 6.2.5 [F3] key initiates the Automatic Tracking functions. When in the automatic tracking mode ANY key will disable the automatic tracking and return you to Manual Tracking. 6.2.6 Shift[F3] allows you to input a DX Station's Grid Square. This will then provide a display, in the top left hand corner of the screen, of the Azimuth, Elevation, Doppler Shift and Spatial Offset of the distant station. The latter two displays will only be present if you both have coincident Moon. 6.2.7 [F4] key will automatically park your antennae to the home position as defined by you in the Auto Track Set Up Menu. (refer 8.5). 6.2.8 [F5] key allows you to re-calibrate your antennae readout. Simply enter the new headings to change your display. (Pulse Mode only). 6.2.9 [F6] key allows you to transfer your Target source bearings into your Azimuth and Elevation antennae headings. This can be very useful should you be unsure of your headings. If for example, you are tracking the Sun and find that the peak Noise heading is different to your beam heading you can then transfer the Target to your own beam headings (Pulse Mode only). 6.2.10 [F7] key allows you to save your current indicator Azimuth and Elevation readouts. This allows you to leave your array where you would prefer without driving it to the set park position. You may then turn off your computer and recall your previous position by the Shift[F7] key. (Pulse Mode only). 6.2.11 Shift[F7] key allows you to recall your previously stored Azimuth and Elevation Indicator position. When initiating the program enter into the Auto Track Screen and hit Shift[F7]. The programed Park position will be changed to the "Temporary Parked" position as previously stored. (Pulse Mode only). 6.3 Graph Track. (Requires EGA/VGA Monitor) This is the real heart of the Software and provides advanced facilities to check your system and to perform accurate and or scientific measurements. It is this area the author has concentrated his efforts. The options provided by Graph Track allow you to select many sources and: (a) automatically position the array and then graph either E or H Plane polar patterns. (b) calculate the Antennae Gain and beam angle directly from the screen. You can calculate gains either separately or as a composite gain figure. (c) graph your Moon echos. (d) obtain a time domain/amplitude plot of received signals. (e) Utilize the received signals to perform rudimentary Digital Signal Processing and recover the actual CW signal and play it on the internal computer speaker. (f) Sample a noise source and display level variations on an expanded graph. As with all the above facilities the Graphs may be stored on disk and later retrieved (overlaid on top of another graph and/or printed) for evaluation. Whilst in the Graphic Screen help is provided by hitting [F1] and stepping through the function key designations. (Shift,Alt,Ctrl). The key functions are displayed on the right hand side of the screen. 6.3.1 Graphic Screen Options. To utilise the Graph Track facilities you must have a monitor capable of displaying EGA or VGA. The software is "downward compatible" to EGA and will result in a 640x350 resolution graphics screen. The options are now described in function key order. 6.3.2 [F1]. Step through the Function keys accessed from the Graphics Option. (Shift,Alt,Ctrl). 6.3.2 [F2]. Select a Target Source. You may select any of the Menu displayed options provided. They include the Sun and other Noise Sources as well as the Cold Sky areas. The Software will then Track your selection. You may also input a Azimuth Bearing (set in Autotrack Screen) which will permit using a beacon as a source and then plot a beam pattern. The [TAB] key allows you to select additional noise sources. 6.3.3 Shift[F2]. This is the DSP option. First load the receiver file you wish to analyse with Shift[F10] before hitting Shift[F2]. The displayed waveform will change to grey and a yellow horizontal line will appear across the screen. This line (set level), may be moved to a position representing the DSP point. A counter on the left hand side of the screen indicates its position. [F1] will then translate the signal into a square wave representing the level chosen. This will be displayed in white. [F2] will provide the CW output of this signal via the computer speaker. [F7] will return you to the set level condition so you may alter the level as desired and repeat [F1] and [F2] as often as desired. [Esc] will return you to the main Graphics menu where you may load another file (Shift[F10]). 6.3.4 Alt[F2]. Scan and Track a noise source (eg Sun) and record the variations in level over a period of time. After hitting this key, if the source chosen is above the horizon, the software will position your array at the source. If the source is below the horizon plotting will commence immediately on the top half of the screen. The sampling time is calculated commensurate with your computer and is displayed at the bottom of the screen. On the right hand side of the receiver input display the peak input level is displayed. Your input level should be adjusted to indicate 0.0dB (or as near as you can make it), and under these conditions the level plotted on the top half of the screen (yellow) will be referenced to 0dB. You will notice that the display is linear and has a range of +/- 6dB. You may check this by placing an attenuator in line with your receiver. The input level is in this case the peak level as seen by the A/D. Levels greater than or less than 6dB with respect to the reference level will clip the plot. If you are expecting a variation greater than 6dB then the level can be set accordingly (-3 or -6dB for example). At the commencement of the scan the time will be displayed on the screen. When the scan reaches the far right hand side of the display (or you hit any other key to stop the function) the end date and time will be shown. The graph display may be stored on disk by [F10] or the whole procedure repeated with the Alt[F2] key. 6.3.5 Control[F2]. This option allows you to vary the time between updating the Antennae heading with the Source when using the Scan function. Alt[F2]. The default setting is 30 counts before updating. You will see the count reducing at the end of each scan. When it reaches 0 it will update. This function allows the user to input a value commensurate with their Antennae Gain (Beamwidth). The maximum value is 499 which is the full screen width of the display. If you choose such a value you will infact plot the beam width slope of your array. 6.3.6 [F3]. Position your array for graphing Moon Echos. (Auto Track the target in the Graphics Mode). The array will be then set to track the Moon. After obtaining Lock you are ready to plot your Echos by hitting Shift[F3]. 6.3.7 Shift[F3]. Plot Moon Echos. When Lock is obtained with [F3] hitting this key will send seven 200mS dashes which activate the PTT Relay. Following the last dash and two seconds after the rising edge of the first pulse, the graph will plot the returned echo on the screen for the next two seconds. You will also note that if you wish to plot another Echo this will be done in another colour or if you chose, you may clear the screen first with [F7]. There are 4 alternating colours selected automatically by the software. This applies to all plotting options except for the Receiver Scan functions where only green has been provided. 6.3.8 [F4]. Park Antennae. You may Park your Antennae to the Azimuth and Elevation positions as chosen and set in the Auto Track Setup Menu. 6.3.9 Shift[F4]. Target to Indicator. If you are using the Pulse mode of operation this facility allows you to re-calibrate your indicator. Manually peak your array on a noise source or your Moon Echos and then by hitting Shift[F4] you will transfer the Target source Az and El positions to that of your Indicator readout. This may upset your Park position. 6.3.10 [F5]. Position for Azimuth. This will position your array the number of degrees counter clock wise from your Tracking Target (eg the Sun). The number of degrees offset will be that as chosen from the four available scales provided in the Change Degree Scale under Shift[F8]. 6.3.11 Shift[F5]. Graph Azimuth Noise. After positioning your array and obtaining "Offset Lock" with [F5], hitting this key will start the Az Drive and plot the Noise on the Graphics Screen. The motors will drive through the Target and stop at the corresponding Azimuth on the other side of the source. Again hitting Shift[F5] (after completing a plot), will repeat the plot in the opposite direction in another colour. 6.3.12 Alt[F5]. Graph Azimuth Noise. This is the same as Shift[F5] except it provides for Non-Linear readouts. If your indicators do not produce a linear step (increment in 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 or similar) then this option should be used to Graph your Noise. 6.3.13 [F6]. Position for Elevation. This option functions the same way as for Azimuth as previously explained in option [F5] above noting that the array will initially be positioned below the Target. 6.3.14 Shift[F6]. Graph Elevation Noise. Again as explained in option Shift[F5] the Elevation Noise will be plotted in this option. 6.3.15 Alt[F6]. Graph Elevation Noise. Again as explained in option Alt[F5] the Elevation Noise will be plotted in this option. 6.3.16 [F7]. Clear Graphics Screen. After plotting a graph you may clear the screen by hitting this key or continue to "paint" another graph, in another colour, over your previous graphs. 6.3.17 Shift[F7]. This will calculate Antennae gain and Beam Angle after plotting a graph. The 3dB calculation points will be shown on the screen as small crosses. 6.3.18 [F8]. Change Degree Scale. This allows the user to select the offset Azimuth and Elevation headings from where the array will be positioned before commencing to graph noise. (Options [F5] and [F6]). The offsets provided are +/- 5, 12.5, and 25 degrees. In other words if you select +/- 5 degrees and plot a Elevation noise response the antennae will first be positioned 5 degrees below the Target and then run through the target and stop 5 degrees above the Target. The Azimuth will track correctly. Hitting [F6] again will drive your array downwards and provide another plot in a different colour from where you came. (less Target change of position ofcourse!) 6.3.19 Shift[F8]. Change (invert) the dB Scale. Depending upon the measurements you are making it is sometimes useful to present the display in an inverted format. This option provides this function where the dB Scale can be set for either 0-30 or 30-0 dB. 6.3.20 Control[F8]. Calibrate input Voltage to the Receiver Input A/D. This function will enable you to display your receiver input voltage to the A/D converter. It will be displayed as a open bar and vary in level commensurate to your input voltage. The Maximum voltage will ofcourse correspond to +5 volts. (0dB reference for noise measurements or +x dB for receiver S/N+N level). Press any key to clear screen and resume. 6.3.21 [F9] Receiver Scan 10 Seconds. This option allows the user to use the graph option to plot the receiver output. This is a Time domain/amplitude display referenced to the levels as set in Shift[F8] above. The graph will plot the receiver for 10 seconds and then stop. Hitting the [F9] key again will clear the graph screen and repeat the operation. During the scan if you hit any key it will stop the operation. You can store this graph and print it out later, for inclusion with your QSL of the station you worked!! 6.3.22 Shift[F9]. Receiver Scan 50 Seconds. This option is exactly the same as explained in [F9] except the scan period has been extended to 50 seconds. 6.3.23 [F10]. Store the Graph to Disk. The default file extension has been chosen for you depending upon the graph you have just plotted. The program asks you the file name. Remember to keep the file name down to 8 letters. The file is then stored with the extension associated with the graph. Azimuth xxxxxxxx.AZM Elevation xxxxxxxx.ELV Moon Echo xxxxxxxx.ECO Receiver xxxxxxxx.REC Scan xxxxxxxx.SCN xxxxxxxx = user chosen file name. The file size is approximately 63kB long so make sure you have enough room on your disk to store the file! The Graph Plot provided in all the above options also Date and Time stamps your plot. This is saved and will be displayed on the screen when recalled. It also saves the dB and Degree Scales. Note You don't type the extension as this is added automatically). 6.3.24 Shift[F10]. Load a graph from disk. This option allows you to recall and overlay any file, on any other, or on a blank screen. The colours and scales will be the same as those stored. The Software will step you through the types of files available to which you respond to the one required with a "Y". A [CR] or any other key will be a default "no" response! After selecting the file type, respond with the file name and this will be displayed on the screen! If the file does not exist it will tell you so! A Directory of files, (in the associated colours), appears on LHS of the screen. (in place of the Function help keys). 6.3.25 Alternate[F10]. Print a Graph. This option will print the graphics screen on any standard printer with a graphics option. You may load from disk the display(s) you wish or print direct from the screen. 6.3.26 Control[F10]. This option allows you to Erase a stored Graph file. Choose the file type you wish to erase (this is colour coded), and simply type in the File Name. The file extension is NOT required. 7.0 GENERAL SET UP. This Sub Menu provides the default parameters that are stored as your own Home Location and are used on start up. You may also set the Computer Time from within this Menu. Remember to save any changes when you are finished. 7.1 Home Location Change. This option provides the ability to input your Home Location Data that is used for all calculations and is called when initiating the Program. 7.2 Local Winter/Summer Time. This option allows you to select either Summer (+1 hour), or Normal Time. 7.3 Operating Frequency. This option allows you to select any frequency from 50 MHz to 24 GHz. It is used for doppler calculations. 7.4 UTC/Local Computer Time. This option allows the user to run your Computer Time as UTC if desired. 7.5 Display Source Target. The user may select either the Moon, Sun or any Noise Source for use in the Tracking Mode Routines. It is also provided in the other screens. 7.6 Transmit Sequence. This option allows the user to select either First or Second TX sequencing. 7.7 Period of Transmission. The user may select Transmission periods of 1, 2 or 2 1/2), Minutes as desired as used in the Real Track Mode. 7.8 Warning Sound On/Off. The user may turn off the Warning Alarm as used in the Real Time Track Mode. 7.9 Save Set up Parameters. This option allows you to save all options to Disk. 7.10 Change Computer Time. You may correct your Computer Time with this option. Select the highlighted figure you wish to change, with the [arrow] keys, and use the [+/-] keys to increment or decrement the value as required. [Esc] to exit when finished. 8.0 AUTO TRACK SET UP. This Sub Menu provides all the facilities required to utilise the Auto Tracking options of the Software. As your Station will most likely be different from all others, adjust the parameters to suit your particular situation. 8.1 Mode Selection ... Analog / Digital / Pulse. This Option allows the user to select the method of Computer Interface that is most adaptable to existing Azimuth and Elevation Displays. The available Modes are as follows. (a) The Analog facility requires a voltage input varying from 0v to +5 Volts [Maximum] for both the Azimuth and Elevation, (G.H.A. / Dec) displays. The user should arrange their system to provide this maximum variation for the best resolution. Calibration and scaling of the input voltage is achieved from the "Analog Set Up Parameters" Menu. Refer connection details P3 Section 9.0. (b) The Digital Inputs [4 per digit] are connected in parallel to the Azimuth 000.0 and Elevation 00.0 displays. Normal logic levels are required. Refer connection details P4 and P5 Section 9.0. Used as input for the VK3UM/ZL3AAD Gray Code position indicator hardware. (c) The Pulse input requires +5v to 0 Volt pulses (50% Duty Cycle - use a D Flipflop) corresponding to the drive movement of the antennae. The reference starting point is the Park position of the Array. The "Pulse Set Up Parameter" Menu allows the user to specify the number of pulses per degree which then provides automatic calibration the display. Key [F5] allows the user to Re-calibrate Az and El if required. Refer connection details P3 Section 9.0. 8.2 Digital Setup. This mode is for Operators that may already have a Digital Display attached to some form of decoder. The interface allows such a display to be utilised as input to the "VK3UM EMETRAK" Software. The Connection for each group of BCD lines, (four for each digit) and is designated Hun Ten Uni and Dec). The maximum accuracy is 0.1 degree with overall Software capable of 0.05 degs. Unused Decimal Degree inputs should be tied Low if not required. (Refer Section 9 Connector P4). 8.3 Analog Setup Parameters. This option has been designed to utilise potentiometers attached to the Az and El of the Array. It is suggested that quality 10 turn potentiometers be employed. It is left to the user to design a system to allow a 0v - +5 volt variation to be presented at the interface. The 0 and +5v should correspond to the maximum range of movement. For example should you wish to track from 90 to 270 degrees then the maximum displayed resolution is (270-90)/255 or 0.7 degrees. Accordingly, set both the Az and El to suit your needs. The 0v always corresponds to the smaller value. Tracking in both hemispheres is automatic from your Home Station information and the resolution is computed and displayed from your designated range values. 8.4 Pulse Setup Parameters. This option has been designed for those who choose to employ an optical or a mechanical shaft encoder to generate pulses during rotation. The software will count these pulses and display the respective heading. Due to the speed of the computer there is naturally a speed limitation. This is approximately 25 pulses per SECOND for a 4 MHz machine. THE PULSES MUST BE 50% DUTY CYCLE FOR MAXIMUM SPEED. LESS THAN 50% DUTY CYCLE WILL SEVERELY LIMIT THE SPEED. Note I am talking speed of rotation or the number of 50% duty cycle pulses sent to the interface from your shaft encoder in one second. Do not confuse this with pulses per degree. With higher speed machines the figure naturally increases. I use the 4MHz machine as a worst case scenario. Always check this out first (assuming you are presenting sharply defined pulses to the interface) to make sure you are not "dropping or missing pulses". The resolution is a function of pulses per 360 degrees as defined in this Menu by the user. The reference point is set by the Home Position of the Antennae as defined by the user. Re-setting is provided by [F5] but will void the Home Position. Built into this function is the ability to only Track in Azimuth or Elevation. The drive you wish disabled should be set to 0 pulses per 360 degrees. This will inhibit that drive for all modes. (Pulse, Digital and Analog). Since February 1993 Version 2:02, the software has been changed to permit Pulses per 360 degrees to reduce possible cumulative errors. This now means that: 360 = 1.0 pulse per degree, 3600 = 0.1 pulses per degree or 36000 = 0.01 pulses per degree. Other values will permit exact scaling to suit your system. Note that the input pulse must be negative going as fed to the tracking interface. A pull up resistor to +5v may be required to achieve this depending upon the encoder you employ. ie. the pulse shall go from +5v to 0v to count and held at +5v whilst idle. (RF immunity design). Azimuth and Elevation Motor Run-on. These options allow for the correction of added pulses that are not counted after the motor off command is given. You may input the number of run on pulses by implementing the internal pulse counter [F1] (reset by [ShiftF1]) and viewing the extra pulses after you stop the motor. The extra pulses are added as soon as the motor starts and as such will stop prior to reaching the true heading. The resultant operation will provide for correct tracking commensurate with any motor over- run. The maximum number of added pulses is 99. A substitute for stopping the motor dead !! Note.. If you require this motor run-on facility then the hysteresis factor will have to be increased commensurate to the distance travelled. This generally means that a hysteresis factor of 3 or more is required. Check the hysteresis window, as displayed in degrees, with respect to the added run on pulses and derive a factor suitable for your needs. (refer 8.6). Again problems will be experienced as a result of the time the motor is run and the time it will take to stop! (an "un-programable" variable!) 8.5 Home (Park) Position of Antennae. This facility provides for the parking of the Array automatically by the [F4] key. Both Az and El will drive at the same time. Should you be in the tracking Mode this will be disabled. The values input here are also used as the reference starting point for those using the Pulse Input Mode. You may enter a negative value for the Park Elevation/Declination. In Auto Track this value will be displayed in red to indicate a negative number. 8.6 Az Motor Hysteresis. This facility allows the user to control the "window" within which tracking will be maintained. If you have a motor drive that runs on, (does not stop quickly enough), then you may extend the "window" by a multiplication factor. This factor, (normally set to 1), is used to multiply your tracking accuracy. Set this factor to suit your system. examples: a. If you are running an analog position indicator and you are spanning 359 degrees (0 volts = 0 degrees and +5 volts = 359 degrees), then your tracking resolution = 359/255 or 1.41 degrees. If you choose to use a Az Hysteresis Factor of 2 then you will then have a window of +/- 2.82 degrees. b. If you are running a pulse position system and you are using 1 pulse per degree then your tracking accuracy is 1.0 degree. Should you choose a Az Hysteresis Factor of 5 then your tracking window will be +/- 5.0 degrees. c. If you are running a digital input positioning system with 0.1 degree resolution and then using a Hysteresis Factor of 10 the window becomes +/- 1.0 degrees. The factor is stored as part of your start up file in EMETRAK.DAT. 8.7 El Motor Hysteresis. The functions are identical to that of the Azimuth Hysteresis function. 8.8 Drive Update Period in Minutes. This option allows the user to select how often you wish the Az / El Motors to operate. If you enter 0 then the motors will drive every 15 seconds as this is the update Target calculation period. When using the Pulse Mode, the time and Target is frozen until Lock has been achieved. The period starts again after Lock has been achieved. 8.9 End Stops of Antennae. This option allows the user to set Software End Stops to prevent over run of their Array. Two, for each Azimuth and Elevation, (G.H.A. / Dec) have been provided. Always set #1 as the lower value. You may enter a negative value for the Elevation/Declination. In Auto Track this value will be displayed in red to indicate a negative number. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD THE USER RELY UPON THE SOFTWARE ENDSTOPS, BUT AS A MATTER OF SAFETY, PROVIDE THEIR OWN FAIL SAFE ELECTRICAL INTERLOCK PROTECTION. 8.10 Communication Port [9600/8/1/N]. This facility allows the user to choose either COM1 or COM2 Serial Ports as defined by the IBM (or compatible) configuration. Variation of the speed, number of data and stop bits as well as parity can not be changed in Software. 8.11 Antennae Mount. Az/El or G.H.A./Dec. This option allows the user to select either of the Antennae mounts and track the Sources as required. The respective displays will change according to the type of mount selected. 8.12 Motor Speed Control This option allows the user to control the speed of the drive motor. The "Spare" relay is used for this purpose. As only one relay is available, you only have the option of controlling one motor. This is selected from the sub menu from within this option. You may select either the Azimuth or Elevation drives and input a "window" within which, the "Spare" relay will NOT be actuated. That is, the relay will operate for FAST speed and NOT operated for SLOW speed. The figure you input sets a +/- value for the window. If you do not require this option then make both the Azimuth and Elevation windows equal to 0. 8.13 Save Set Up Parameters to Disk. This option allows the user to save all Auto Track Setup parameters as well as the General Set Up Parameters to Disk. They are stored in the Data File EMETRAK.DAT. These parameters are used on start up so remember to save all your changes prior to exiting the Program! 9.0 PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD CONNECTIONS. Connector P1 (RS232). 1 Protective Ground 2 Transmit Data 3 Receive Data 4 Request to Send 5 Clear to Send 6 Data Set Ready 7 Signal Ground 8 Received Line Signal Detect 20 Data Terminal Ready At the Computer end of the cable join 4-5 and join 6-8-20. Connector P2 (Relay Output). 1 Azimuth - Clockwise. 2 Azimuth - Counter Clockwise. 3 Elevation - Down. 4 Elevation - Up. 5 PTT - Echos. 6 Polarity CW - not used in the current software. 7 Polarity CCW - not used in the current software. 8 Spare now designated for Motor Speed Control. 9 Earth 10 Earth 11 Earth 12 Earth 13 Earth 14 Earth 15 Earth 16 Earth The "Relay Outputs" may be Ground or +5v as selected by the Interface Link. Connector P3 (Analog and Pulse Input). 1 Not Used 2 Not Used 3 Not Used 4 Not Used 5 Not Used 6 Receiver Audio Input [0 - +5v] 7 Elevation Pulse Input [0 - +5v] 8 Azimuth Pulse Input [0 - +5v] 9 +5v (available for external use) 10 +5v (available for external use) 11 Earth 12 Earth 13 Earth 14 Earth 15 Earth 16 Earth Connector P4 (Azimuth Digital Input). External 4511 Pin 1 Az Ten 0 7 (A) 2 Az Ten 2 1 (B) 3 Az Ten 4 2 (C) 4 Az Ten 8 6 (D) 5 Az Unit 0 7 (A) 6 Az Unit 2 1 (B) 7 Az Unit 4 2 (C) 8 Az Unit 8 6 (D) 9 Az Decimal 0 7 (A) 10 Az Decimal 2 1 (B) 11 Az Decimal 4 2 (C) 12 Az Decimal 8 6 (D) 13 Az Hundred 0 7 (A) 14 Az Hundred 2 1 (B) 15 Az Hundred 4 2 (C) 16 Az Hundred 8 6 (D) Connector P5 (Elev. Digital Input). External 4511 Pin 1 El Ten 0 7 (A) 2 El Ten 2 1 (B) 3 El Ten 4 2 (C) 4 El Ten 8 6 (D) 5 El Unit 0 7 (A) 6 El Unit 2 1 (B) 7 El Unit 4 2 (C) 8 El Unit 8 6 (D) 9 El Decimal 0 7 (A) 10 El Decimal 2 1 (B) 11 El Decimal 4 2 (C) 12 El Decimal 8 6 (D) 13 Earth 14 Earth 15 Earth 16 Earth 10.0 COMPONENT LIST - VK3UM EME AUTOTRACK INTERFACE. 10.1 Integrated Circuits. IC1 AY-3-1015D IC11 74LS08 IC2 ICL232 (MAX232) IC12 74LS04 IC3 74LS123 IC13 74LS05 IC4 74LS155 IC14 74LS00 IC5 74LS175 IC15 74LS374 IC6 74LS175 IC16 74LS374 IC7 74LS00 IC17 74LS374 IC8 74LS04 IC18 74LS374 IC9 74LS00 IC19 74HC4060P IC10 74LS08 IC20 ADC0809CCN 10.2 Capacitors. C1 - C2 27 pf Ceramic C3 22 nf Green Cap (223K) C4 1.5 mfd Tantalum 16vW (Watch Polarity!) C5 2.2 nf Green Cap (222K) C6 4.7 nf Green Cap (472K) C7 22 nf Green Cap (223K) C8 2.2 nf Green Cap (222K) C9 0.1 mfd Green Cap (104K) C10 10 nf Green Cap (103K) C11 - C17 10 mfd Tantalum 16VW (Watch Polarity!) C18 - C21 22 mfd Tantalum 16VW (Watch Polarity!) Green Cap = polycarbonate or similar capacitor. 10.3 Resistors. R1 - R8 1.5k ohm 1/4 Watt R9 - R16 390 ohm 1/4 Watt (180 ohm parallel LEDs used) R17 - R18 22k ohm 1/4 Watt R19 10M ohm 1/4 Watt R20 10k ohm 1/4 Watt R21 2.2k ohm 1/4 Watt R22 10k ohm 1/4 Watt R23 100k ohm 1/4 Watt R24 10k ohm 1/4 Watt R25 1.2k ohm 1/4 Watt R26 10k ohm 1/4 Watt 10.4 Transistors. T1 - T8 BC547 T9 7805 (Voltage Regulator) Use Link if not required. 10.5 Crystal. X1 2.4576 MHz 10.6 Diodes. D1 - D11 1N914 D12 1N4004 D13 - D20 5.6v Zeners 10.7 LED's. 1 - 8 Miniature Red - note these can be mounted on the board plus remote LEDs on the front panel. If used in parallel reduce R9-R16 from 390 ohms to 180 ohms. 10.8 Relays. RL1 - RL8 NEC MR62-5S (5v DPDT) 10.9 Fuse. F1 - 1A (Off Board Mounting - bridge if not required) 10.10 Sockets. P1 26 pin IDC Vertical Non Clip Mounting P2 - P5 16 pin IDC Vertical Non Clip Mounting 10.11 Alternative IC Component Designations. IC1 AY-3-1015D TR1865PL (UART) IC2 MAX232 MAX232CPE AD232JN DS14C232CN IC19 74HC4060 MM74HC4060N M74HC4060B1N PC74HC4060P PCF74HCT4060P CD74HCT4060E RL1 - R8 Relays. Also known in USA as Potter & Brumfield T82NI D113-05 The pin configuration is as follows: 1-2 = 5 volt coil. C = Common. NC = Normally Closed Contacts NO = Normally Open Contacts 1 C NC NO o o o o o o o o 2 C NC NO 10.12 Component Sources. To the best of my knowledge they stock all the above components. USA. Jameco Electronics Ph 415-5928121 1355 Shoreway Rd Ph 415-5928097 Belmont CA 94002 FAX 415-5922503 EUROPE Export Department Ph +44-532-636311 Farnell Electronic Components Ltd. FAX +44-532-633411 Canal Road Leeds LS12 2TU United Kingdom On the order, write "Please charge credit card (say Visa or MasterCard) number xxxx, expiry date xx/xx" and sign the order. I am told that the card will be charged in local currency in most countries at a fair exchange rate. 11.0 CHECK OUT PROCEDURE. As most of you that will be undertaking this project are highly competent and experienced in the EME field you will find this a breeze!!! Be assured that, if it does not work, it is due to something YOU have done wrong! Refer to File "BOARDFIX.DOC" for additional information before applying power to the board. 11.1 Assemble the board as per the component layout paying careful attention to the orientation of the components. I recommend the use of IC sockets but this ofcourse is not necessary. Just be sure that the IC's are aligned properly before soldering!! You may mount the LED's on the interface card or externally. Additionally you can do both providing you reduce the resistor values as shown. 11.2 Apply power be it 7 - 9 volts DC or +5 volts if you choose to bridge out the onboard regulator. Measure the current. It should be in the vicinity of 100 - 200 mA depending upon your voltage source. All relays should not be operated as indicated by the LED's. 11.3 Interconnect the board to your Computer (refer Section 9 for connection details). Plug the interface into COM1 (default Serial Port) or COM2 should you desire. In the latter case remember to change to this Port in the AutoTrack Set up options. 11.4 Run the EMETRAK Software and select the Auto Track Option under Tracking Modes from the Main Menu. 11.5 Using the Cursor Keys (Arrow Keys), select in turn the Right Arrow, (Clockwise) Left Arrow (Counter Clockwise) and Up Arrow (Elevation Up) keys. The respective LED's should light! I would advise you not to connect your drive motors yet until you become familiar with the software. Remember that the Space Bar or any other "Text Key" will stop the motor(s) and restore you to Manual Track if you happen to be in Auto Track. 11.6 You can now go back to the other Screens and set you QTH and all other parameters you will be using. To detail how to do this here is difficult as you have so many combinations to chose from. It is very straight forward and logical! The explanations within this document will point you in the right direction. It all depends upon just what you will be using for your position read outs. 11.7 Calibration of your readouts can be done directly from the screen if you are using Analog Potentiometers. Remember that the maximum count is equal to +5 volts and should not be exceeded. Zener diode protection is provided but the board is not "Goof Proof". When using Digital inputs their connection is as previously indicated. As a check you will mimic your readout directly on the screen. If you chose to utilise the Pulse option then provide a +5 to 0 volt pulse to the interface. I would suggest that you use a Schmitt trigger driving a monostable. A 74LS123 would be suitable and this would give you the option to double the resolution of your pulse system. eg. If you feed the output from your pulse encoder, (via a schmitt trigger), to the respective inputs of both halves of the 74LS123 and configure them to trigger on +ve and -ve pulse transitions and then "OR" their output you will provide two pulses to the interface instead of one! This will make a one pulse per degree encoder capable of 0.5 degree resolution. Don't forget to set your pulses/360 degrees to 720!. Remember that 3600 pulses per 360 degrees will give you a 0.1 degree readout and anything less will be scaled accordingly. The Pulse input will allow for greater input but, to be sure, and this depends upon your speed of rotation, use a variable frequency pulse generator to simulate what you will be using. 11.8 The relays can handle up to 2.5A but it is recommended that you don't use them to directly control your motors. One of each is provided for UP/DOWN/LEFT/RIGHT as well as a PTT Line for Transmitter control when using the Echo Graphing Option. Two are currently not used (CW and CCW Polarity) whilst the "Spare" can be used for the motor speed option as provided. You do not need to mount these components at this time should you desire. (relays can cost up to $5!). 11.8 The Analog input from your receiver may be interfaced to the Auto Track board via a suitable audio detector and DC amplifier. An interface should be calibrated to provide the level commensurate with the dB scale provided in the graphics option. Again the reference voltage should be set to +5 volts peak relative to the scale chosen. 11.9 Now that you have had a play with the options you can get serious! Go to the Auto Track Options Menu and select the Pulse Mode. You may not intend to use this mode but it is fun to play with and you can get the feel of the software!!! Next select the Auto Track mode and energize the internal Pulse generator with Shift[F1]. Now you can now play with the options!! Simulate Auto Tracking, Parking, testing your End Stops etc. You can also check out your Graphic facilities from within Graph Track. Watch your respective control LEDs light. (alternatively select REAL TIME TRACK and hit the HOME key which will place it in the Demonstration Mode). NOW ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS INTERFACE IT TO YOUR REAL SYSTEM!!!! 12.0 SUMMARY As you can see the interface options are quite profound. I leave it up to you to select which mode suits you best. In general, the concept of this system has been conceived to cover nearly all the current readouts being used today. The accuracy is commensurate to the information you present to the interface! Its no good striving for 0.01 degree accuracy when you have backlash in your drive, the readout system or the antennae moves in a strong breeze! The more attention you place on YOUR input the more accurate will be your tracking! Similarly for those that promote 12 bit A/D converters and claim a higher degree of resolution should consider the potentiometers they hang across it!! Even with the most expensive available 0.5% you cannot realize the accuracy provided by the A/D!! A final point with respect to the Software. As you can see it is highly complex! There are well over 14,000 lines of Pascal code. It is most difficult to be 100% sure that there is not a bug. I have gone to extreme lengths to check out as much as is practical. Should you have a problem please document, as best you can, the nature, effect, and events that caused the difficulty. I use the total system (with digital Gray code position indicators) all the time so that most problems are quickly revealed, but one cannot be absolutely sure! I have based the options from practical experience and from input from other users. If you have any suggestions for improvement please do not hesitate to write. (Don't ask me about Satellite tracking facilities or CW options please ... I am not interested! This is for those interested in EME and Radio Astronomy operators, not telephone users!!). The Software was written and developed as an Amateur project to fill a need. (My need!) It is not my full time profession nor do I expect to benefit financially! The cost has been kept to the barest minimum. Accordingly I would appreciate your help to cover costs of any future correspondence or software updates. 12.1 Changes to Printed Circuit Board May 1991. On Printed Circuit Board (Version May 91) there are two minor changes to the Artwork. Both are on the solder side of the board. (a) Near 7805 Regulator - a small section of track has been removed. (b) IC 6 track to pin 10 has been re-routed from pin 11. This is the input to the Spare relay. The error has been corrected. In addition, the hole sizes for the 7805 are too small. Bend ends of the leads over and solder direct to the top side of the board. 12.2 Changes to Printed Circuit Board May 1992. On some Printed Circuit Boards (Version May 92) there is a solder link in a large track near the centre of the board. The board manufacturer forgot a hole during the drilling process! 12.3 Finally!! The board has been put together by some 70 Stations so far, (1st Sept 1992) and the ONLY PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN FAULTY IC's, solder bridges (please don't use a 300 watt soldering iron!) and the odd wrong wiring of the serial interface cable. The faulty IC's have been the inexpensive ones like the 74LS00, 74LS04, 74LS05 and 74LS08. Make sure you get them from a good source!! 13.0 FUNCTION KEYS [F1] Main Screen .. Software Version Number. 13.1 Real Time Track Screen. [F2] Select Target Sources. [F3] Input a Grid Square. 13.2 Auto Track Screen. [F1] Enable/Disable display of Az and El pulse counts Shift[F1] Enable/Disable internal Pulse Generator. Control[F1] Reset Pulse Counter (refer [F1]). [F2] Select Target Sources. [TAB] More Sources. [F3] Initiate Auto Tracking Mode. Shift[F3] Input a Grid Square. [F4] Park Antennae. [F5] Recalibrate Az/El indicators. [F6] Transfer Target Az/El to Indicator Az/El. [F7] Save Indicator Az/El. Shift[F7] Recall Indicator Az/El. 13.3 Graph Track. [F1] Help Screen of Graphic Function Keys. [F2] Select Target Sources. [TAB] More Sources. Shift[F2] Digital Signal Processing (Rudimentary) Load Receiver file with Shift[F10] first. [F1] Set Level with arrow keys first then perform DSP. [F2] Replay CW on Computer Speaker. [F7] Repeat Set Level Procedure. [Esc] Returns to Menu. Alt[F2] Long Term Scan and signal variation Graph option. Ctrl[F2] Change Tracking Update Scan Count. (Max 499). [F3] Auto Track Target (Position for Echos). Shift[F3] Plot Moon Echos. [F4] Park Antennae. Shift[F4] Transfer Target Az/El to Indicator Az/El. (Pulse Mode). [F5] Position for Azimuth E Plot. Shift[F5] Plot Azimuth E graph. Linear increment Indicator mode. Alt[F5] Plot Azimuth E graph. Non-linear increment Indicator mode. [F6] Position for Elevation H Plot. Shift[F6] Plot Elevation H graph. Linear increment Indicator mode. Alt[F6] Plot Elevation H graph. Non-linear increment Indicator mode. [F7] Clear Graphics Screen; Shift[F7] Calculate Antennae Gain and Beam angle. [F8] Change offset Degree Scale. +/- 5 , 12.5 or 25 degrees. Shift[F8] Invert dB Scale. Ctrl[F8] Calibrate A/D input voltage. [F9] Receiver scan plot 10 Seconds. Shift[F9] Receiver scan plot 50 Seconds. [F10] Store Graph Plot to Disk. Shift[F10] Load Graph Plot from Disk. Ctrl[F10] Erase a Graph File. Alt[F10] Print Graph. 13.4 [F2] Target Source Options ( plus [TAB] for more) [F1] Moon. Shift[F1] P1641-45 [F2] Sun. Shift[F2] P1831-03 [F3] Aquarius. Shift[F3] P1858+03 [F4] Leo. Shift[F4] P1354-62 [F5] Pictor. Shift[F5] Orion M42 [F6] Cassiopeia. Shift[F6] Taurus A [F7] Sagittarius. Shift[F7] Centurus A [F8] Cygnus. Shift[F8] Virgo [F9] Omega M17. Shift[F9] Perseus A [F10] User Input Az / El. Autotrack and Graphics only. Shift[F10] Input a Grid Square. Autotrack and Graphics only. Doug McArthur (VK3UM) 22nd November 1993