Advantech INTRAC-305

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION INTRAC-305

within the soft limits?). If they are invalid the INTRAC sets the

maximum possible angle(s) in the required direction and

prompts the operator for action. If the co-ordinates are valid

the INTRAC drives the antenna to those co-ordinates and

enters Standby. The antenna can then be peaked using

manual mode or search mode (see below) before selecting

Auto New Model.

Note If Auto Continue is selected at the end of Goto and there is a

model in existence the INTRAC will continue to track using that

model. To commence learning a new orbit either Auto New

Model should be selected or any existing model cleared before

selecting Auto Continue.

Goto Satellite This mode allows one of the previously programmed satellites

(up to 40 can be programmed) to be selected by number and

its position driven to. Using the “Edit Satellite” sub menu of the

Goto Satellite menu a new satellite can be added or an existing

one edited. Having selected the required satellite pressing the

enter key causes the antenna to be driven to that satellite. The

INTRAC enters Standby when the antenna is at the satellite’s

position. Antenna position peaking can then be carried out

manually or in search mode (see below). To commence

tracking this new satellite select Auto New Model or if there is

no existing model Auto Continue may be selected. (see Note

above)

Search Search Mode conducts a search of the sky based on

parameters entered in this menu. When the menu is entered

the displayed parameters are those of the current antenna

pointing. e.g. the parameters from a Goto move. If these

parameters are not those required they may be edited in this

menu. (see page 21)

The search box size angles are plus and minus on the nominal

angle. Thus entering 2 by 2 would cause a search box of 4

square.

The search begins in the nearest corner of the defined box to

the antenna’s current pointing. The search pattern is a “toast

rack” or “serpent shape. The scanning comprises full scans in

elevation for each move in azimuth. The azimuth move is

equal to the 3dB beamwidth of the antenna commencing 1/2 of

the 3dB beamwidth in from the edge of the box.

The position of the highest beacon signal strength during these

scans is recorded. At the end of the “serpentine” search the

antenna is driven to the point of highest signal strength found

during those scans and phase two of the search is

commenced.

This is the peaking phase and causes the antenna to search a

smaller area of sky around the point of highest signal strength

for the peak level. Again the position of the highest signal