Satellite Communications

A Guide to the KVH eTrac

system installation
and user manual
• Installation & Configuration
• System Operation
• Maintenance

KVH eTrac mini-C/GPS

™
Congratulations!
You have selected one of the most advanced and convenient marine communications
systems available today. The KVH® Industries’ eTrac™ system, manufactured by
Thrane & Thrane, is designed to provide global e-mail and GPS tracking services.
This manual provides instructions on the proper installation, use, and maintenance of
your eTrac. Throughout this manual, important information is marked for your
attention by these icons:

A helpful tip that either directs you to

a related area within the manual or
offers suggestions on getting the
highest quality out of your system.

An alert to important information

regarding procedures, product
specifications, or product use. eTrac Product Information
On the base of your eTrac Antenna Unit
Information about installation, is a silver sticker with your product ID
maintenance, troubleshooting, or information. Before installing the
other mechanical issues. Antenna Unit, be sure to write down
the following information here and on
An electrical safety warning to help the mail-in warranty registration on the
identify electrical issues that can be a following page:
hazard to either this KVH product or
a user.
S/N: ____________________________

Direct questions and comments to:

Build Date: ____ /____ / _____
YY MM DD
KVH Industries, Inc.
This information will be required for all
50 Enterprise Center
troubleshooting or service calls made
Middletown, RI 02842 USA regarding this product.
Tel: +1 401 847-3327
Fax: +1 401 849-0045
E-mail: [email protected] Click here to go to our state-of-the-art Customer
Internet: www.kvh.com Support web page...the fastest and easiest way
to get all of your questions answered!

KVH Industries is proud to be an

ISO 9001-certified company.

KVH Part # 34-0002 Rev. B

© 2003, KVH Industries, Inc.
A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

KVH® and eTrac™ are trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.

easyMail and Capsat are trademarks of Thrane & Thrane.

www.kvh.com
 KVH eTrac Warranty Registration Form
Please fill out and return this page within thirty (30) days of purchase for warranty registration.
KVH Industries, Inc. must have this information on file to validate any future warranty claims.

Date of Purchase: _________________________________

Product Serial Number:________________________________

(from sticker on base of Antenna Unit)

Product Build Date:________________________________

(from sticker on base of Antenna Unit)

Name:________________________________________________________

Company (if applicable): _________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________

City:___________________________ State: _______ Zip: ____________

Country: ____________________ Phone: ________________________

Do you regularly access the Internet? Yes No

E-mail Address (optional): ________________________________________

Vessel type product will be used on: ________________________________

Vessel length:__________________________________________________

Publications/magazines read regularly: ______________________________

______________________________ ____________________________

Send me investor information about KVH Industries, Inc.

Return this form to:

KVH Industries, Inc.

50 Enterprise Center
Middletown, RI 02842 USA
Attention: Warranty Registration
Table of Contents

1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1
1.1 Global E-mail and GPS Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1
1.1.1 Inmarsat-C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1
1.1.2 The Global Positioning System (GPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.2 Overview of the eTrac System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.3 Materials Provided with the KVH eTrac System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4
1.3.1 Additional Materials Required for eTrac Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
2.1 Choosing the Best Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
2.2 Mounting the Antenna Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
2.3 Wiring the eTrac System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
2.3.1 Connecting the Antenna Data Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6
2.3.2 Connecting Peripherals to the Breakout Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7
2.3.3 Connecting eTrac to Ship’s Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
2.3.4 Completing the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
2.4 Preparing the eTrac System for Use with the Inmarsat-C Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
2.4.1 Registering eTrac as an MES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
2.4.2 Installing the easyMail Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
2.4.3 Automatic easyMail Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11
2.4.4 Manual easyMail Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11

3 Using the eTrac System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

3.1 An Overview of the Inmarsat-C Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1
3.2 Using eTrac to Send and Receive E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2
3.2.1 Entering Information in the Address Book and Sending an E-mail . . . . . . . . . .3-4

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3.3 Using the eTrac Tracking Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5
3.3.1 Local eTrac Configuration for GPS Position Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6

4 Troubleshooting and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1

4.1 Warranty/Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1
4.2 Handling Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1
4.3 Return Authorization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1
4.4 Repackaging for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Appendix A System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1

Appendix B Mounting Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1

List of Figures
Figure 1-1 Inmarsat-C Coverage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1
Figure 1-2 Typical eTrac System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-3
Figure 2-1 Optimal Viewing Angle to the Horizon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Figure 2-2 Positioning the Antenna to Minimize Blockage (Overhead View) . . . . . . . .2-3
Figure 2-3 Mounting the eTrac (Side View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
Figure 2-4 Breakout Box Interior Arrangement (Top View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
Figure 2-5 Proper Wire to Terminal Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
Figure 2-6 J1 Terminal Block Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6
Figure 2-7 J2 Terminal Block Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7
Figure 3-1 Logging in to the NCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2
Figure 3-2 Selecting the Default LES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2
Figure 3-3 The easyMail Message Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3
Figure 3-4 The easyMail Address Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
Figure 3-5 The New Recipient Data Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
Figure 3-6 easyMail Position Reporting Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7

ii www.kvh.com
 Introduction

1 Introduction
1.1 Global E-mail and GPS Tracking
The KVH eTrac system provides global e-mail and vessel tracking capabilities via the
Inmarsat-C service and the Global Positioning System (GPS). It is brought to you in
cooperation with Thrane & Thrane, the world’s leading manufacturer of Inmarsat
satellite communications systems.

1.1.1 Inmarsat-C
The Inmarsat-C satellite network and mini-C protocol are a store-and-forward
mailing system that enables you to send and receive data to and from mobile
terminals worldwide via the Inmarsat-C system. Four geostationary satellites provide
worldwide coverage. Satellite data link coverage is excellent between 70º North and
70º South. Because the polar regions cannot be seen from geostationary satellites,
these regions are not covered. Figure 1-1 shows the coverage area offered by the
Inmarsat-C service.

Figure 1-1: Inmarsat-C Coverage Areas

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

The Inmarsat-C system is capable of:

• Transmitting data to and from a mobile unit.

• Broadcasting data to groups of mobile terminals.
• Managing position reporting from fleets of mobile units.
• Requesting data from the mobile units via system polling.

The Inmarsat mini-C protocol is primarily a text and data system.

While images or attachments can be sent via the system, the
process is very slow and can become expensive. As a result, KVH
recommends that you limit your eTrac transmissions to text and
data messages. If you do send an image or attachment, the
recipient will need to rename the file with the appropriate file type;
the file name and file type are not transmitted.

1.1.2 The Global Positioning System (GPS)

The eTrac antenna also contains a built-in GPS receiver, which is used to compute the
position of the eTrac system. GPS, developed and controlled by the U. S. Department
of Defense, uses 24 satellites, each of which orbit the earth every 12 hours. At least
four satellites are always visible from any point on earth at any given time. Each
satellite is equipped with hyper-accurate atomic clocks. The satellites simultaneously
transmit signals towards the surface of the earth. The difference in arrival time of the
signals at the eTrac antenna is used to compute the position of the eTrac system.

1.2 Overview of the eTrac System

The eTrac system has three key components. System specifications have been
provided in Appendix A.

The eTrac Antenna Unit

The eTrac Antenna Unit is a compact system built to operate in the marine or outdoor
environment. The Antenna Unit contains a complete Inmarsat mini-C transceiver
with built-in LNA/HPA electronics, a 12-channel GPS receiver, and an omni-
directional antenna designed to operate on vessels and vehicles. The Antenna Unit’s
housing is sealed and contains no user-serviceable parts.

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 Introduction

The eTrac Breakout Box

The Breakout Box serves as the system’s hub, connecting the Antenna Unit to ship’s
power and to the desired computer or message terminal. The Breakout Box is not
watertight and must be mounted below decks.

The eTrac E-mail Application

The eTrac system includes a CD-ROM containing information on how to download
the “easyMail” terminal software, a Microsoft Windows™-based e-mail application.
This application, developed by Thrane & Thrane, operates in a similar manner to
Microsoft Outlook® but uses the Inmarsat mini-C communications protocol.
The informational CD-ROM packed with your eTrac system provides
instructions on how to download the Thrane & Thrane easyMail e-
mail application. While there are other mini-C protocol-compatible e-
mail applications, for the purposes of this manual, easyMail will be
considered the installed application.

Figure 1-2 illustrates how these three components work together.

Figure 1-2: Typical eTrac System Configuration

eTrac Antenna Unit

Antenna Data Cable

Breakout
Box
Ship's Power
RS-232 Data
10.5 – 32 vDC
Connection to PC or
Message Terminal
Peripheral Systems (Serial Cable with
DB9 Connectors)

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

1.3 Materials Provided with the KVH eTrac System

Your eTrac system is shipped with the following parts and materials:

• Antenna Unit
• Breakout Box, which also contains:
– Three strain relief brackets
– Six strain relief screws
– Four Breakout Box mounting screws
• Antenna Data Cable (16 ft/5 m)
• Installation and Operation Manual
• Inmarsat-C Service Activation Registration Form
• Thrane & Thrane informational CD-ROM

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 Introduction

1.3.1 Additional Materials Required for eTrac Use

To make full use of your new eTrac system, you will need to provide/purchase the
following:

• A Windows™-compatible computer or optional Thrane & Thrane

Message Terminal
• 14 AWG shielded, stranded marine cable to connect to ship’s power
• Serial data cable (not a null modem cable) with DB9 connectors (male
to female) to connect the computer to the Breakout Box
• 3 M4 screws and washers
• Additional cables as necessary to connect peripherals to the
Breakout Box
• Optional - pole-mount kit (part number 34-3026-101)
• Optional - rail-mount kit (part number 34-3026-103)
• An Inmarsat-C registration and an Inmarsat mobile number

You must receive a mobile number for your eTrac system from an
Inmarsat Service Provider before eTrac can be configured and
used. Please refer to Section 2.4.1, “Registering eTrac as an MES”
for instructions on applying for and receiving a mobile number. As
this process can take some time, KVH recommends that you submit
your application immediately upon purchasing your eTrac system.

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 Installation

2 Installation
The KVH eTrac system is designed for simple installation and setup. Simply follow
these steps:

1. Choose the installation locations (Section 2.1)

2. Mount the Antenna Unit (Section 2.2)
3. Wire the eTrac System (Section 2.3)
4. Download, install, and configure the easyMail application
(Section 2.4)

Plan the entire installation before proceeding! Take into account

component placement, running cable distances between units, and
accessibility to the equipment after installation.

Installation Tools and Materials Required

• Electric drill (for flush mounting)
• ⁄16" (5 mm) drill bit and 11⁄4" (32 mm) hole saw (for flush mounting)
3

• Phillips screwdrivers
• 14 AWG stranded marine cable to connect to ship’s power
• Shrink wrap sleeves
• Wire strippers
• Windows-compatible PC or laptop computer and a serial data cable
with DB9 connectors (male to female)

2.1 Choosing the Best Location

The eTrac Antenna Unit
The eTrac antenna is designed to be mounted directly on a flat surface.

An optional pole-mounting kit (part number 34-3026-101) and rail-

mounting kit (part number 34-3026-103) are available from KVH.
Contact your dealer or KVH Industries for more details.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

When installing the eTrac Antenna Unit, find a location that is as free from
obstructions as possible. Also maintain a certain distance to other antennas, GPS
receivers, other Inmarsat equipment, and especially radar installations. Normally the
best place for the antenna would be above radar-scanning antennas. The following
safe distances should be maintained:

• Distance to HF antennas > 16 ft (5 m)

• Distance to VHF antennas > 13 ft (4 m)
• Distance to magnetic compass > 1 ft (0.3 m)

The antenna is designed to provide satellite coverage even when the vessel
experiences pitch and roll of as much as 15˚. To maintain this coverage the antenna
should be free from obstructions in the area down to 15˚ below the horizon, as
illustrated in Figure 2-1.

Figure 2-1: Optimal Viewing Angle to the Horizon

Zenith

Horizon Horizon

15˚ 15˚

Obstructions should be below these lines

Since this may not be possible in the fore and aft directions of the vessel, the clear
area can be reduced to 5˚ below the horizon in the fore and aft directions and 15˚
below the horizon in the port and starboard directions. Any compromise in this
recommendation could degrade performance.

If an obstruction such as a pole or a funnel is unavoidable, the antenna must be

positioned in such a location that the obstruction will cover no more than a 2˚ arc
along the horizon. To calculate the minimum distance, use the following formula:

• Safe distance = 29 x Diameter of obstruction

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 Installation

For example: a 4" (10 cm) diameter pole is potentially blocking the Antenna Unit’s
view of the horizon. To ensure that the obstruction covers no greater than a 2˚ arc:

• Safe distance is 29 x 4" (10 cm) = 116" or 9.6 feet (290 cm or 2.9 m)

This example is illustrated in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-2: Positioning the Antenna to Minimize Blockage (Overhead View)

4" (10 cm) diameter eTrac Antenna
obstruction

9.6 ft (2.9 m) apart to ensure that obstruction covers no greater than 2˚ arc

When the eTrac Antenna Unit is transmitting, the electromagnetic

field radiated from the antenna can be harmful. To avoid danger,
always stay at least 1 ft (30 cm) from the transceiver.

The eTrac Breakout Box

The Breakout Box, which is linked to the Antenna Unit via the data cable, needs to be
placed in an accessible location so that a computer, message terminal, or other
peripherals can be conveniently connected to it.

The KVH eTrac comes equipped with a 16' (5 m) Antenna Unit data
cable. However, a 33' (10 m) cable [part number 34-3026-942] and
a 65' (20 m) cable [part number 34-3026-943] are also available.
Contact your dealer or KVH Industries for details.

2.2 Mounting the Antenna Unit

A full-size mounting template has been provided in Appendix B to assist with the
installation process. To mount the Antenna Unit:

1. Select an appropriate, flat surface and, using the template, map out
and drill the required holes (3 for the mounting screws; 1 for the
connector and data cable access).

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

2. Feed the Antenna Unit data cable through the cable access hole and
route below decks.
3. Connect the cable to the connector on the base of the Antenna Unit.
4. Secure the Antenna Unit to the mounting surface with the washers
and M4 screws from underneath, as illustrated in Figure 2-3.

Figure 2-3: Mounting the eTrac (Side View)

Antenna

Mounting Surface
Washer

M4 Screw

Data Cable

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 Installation

2.3 Wiring the eTrac System

The Breakout Box of the eTrac system brings together ship’s power, data to and from
the Antenna Unit, a DB9 connection for a computer or message terminal, and
input/output connections for additional peripherals.

Figure 2-4: Breakout Box Interior Arrangement (Top View)

Antenna Data Cable
Antenna Data Cable
Access Port
Strain Relief Points

Antenna Cable
Terminal Block
(J1)

1 18
Power & I/O Cable
Terminal Block (J2)

1 12

AC Adapter DB9 Connector

Port

Indicator Power & I/O Cable Power & I/O Cable

LEDs Access Ports Strain Relief Points

The following sections provide instructions for properly wiring the eTrac system.

Tips for Safe and Successful Wiring

• When attaching cables to the Breakout Box Figure 2-5: Proper Wire to
terminal connector strips, make sure the insulation Terminal Connection
is stripped back approximately 1⁄4" (6 mm) as


 



illustrated in Figure 2-5. Twist the wires gently to
help achieve a good connection. Do not pinch
insulation inside the connector.


• After attaching the cables to the appropriate

terminal connector strips, tug gently to ensure a   

firm connection.
• Make sure that the Breakout Box is disconnected from ship’s power
when wiring the Antenna Unit or other peripherals. Connecting to
ship’s power should ALWAYS be the last step when wiring.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

2.3.1 Connecting the Antenna Data Cable

The antenna data cable should now be accessible below decks. Run the cable to the
Breakout Box installation site and follow these steps.

1. Remove the two screws that secure the top of the Breakout Box. Set
them aside along with the top of the Breakout Box.
2. Inside the Breakout Box, you will find a small plastic bag containing
the following:
- 3 strain relief brackets
- 6 screws for use securing the strain relief brackets
- 4 screws for use securing the Breakout Box to a stable platform
Set this bag aside for now.
3. Remove the single cable hole cap.
4. Slide a heat shrink sleeve over the data cable.
5. Insert the cable through the cable access hole.
6. The J1 terminal block is labeled by wire color. Figure 2-6: J1 Terminal
Connect the data cable as directed by these labels. Block Connectors
The terminal numbers, colors, and functions are
Red 1 DC+
explained in Figure 2-6.
Red 2 DC+
7. The Antenna Unit has a four-pole power Black 3 DC-
connection. All four wires must be connected to Black 4 DC-
the appropriate terminals (#1-4). Black/Violet 5 3.3 V out

8. After all of the data cable wires are secured to White 6 GND

the proper terminals, secure the data cable to Black/Blue 7 I/O 1

the Breakout Box using one of the strain relief Grey 8 I/O 2

brackets and two screws. Black/Yellow 9 I/O 3

Black/Grey 10 I/O 4
9. Make certain that the antenna data cable shield
Brown 11 I/O 5
is properly grounded (e.g., to the strain relief
Black/Green 12 I/O 6
bracket).
Yellow 13 On/Off

10. Slide the heat shrink sleeve until it covers the Orange 14 GND

portion of the data cable that is passing through Blue 15 Clear to Send

the cable access hole. Heat the sleeve to secure it Violet 16 Request to Send

in place. Green 17 Receive

Black/Red 18 Transmit

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 Installation

2.3.2 Connecting Peripherals to the Breakout Box

When using the Breakout Box, the eTrac system can support multiple peripheral
systems, including a remote on/off switch. These peripherals are connected to the
Breakout Box through the J2 terminal block connections. KVH recommends that
peripheral cables be run through the right-hand cable access port as the power cable
will need to be run through the left.

The I/O connections are designed as open collector pins. By

default, they are set to be used as input pins. When using the pins
for output, it is important not to apply voltage higher than 3.3 Vdc at
the I/O port as this can cause damage to the Antenna Unit.

The J2 terminal block is labeled by pin function, as Figure 2-7: J2 Terminal

illustrated in Figure 2-7. Block Connectors

DC+ 1
Remote On/Off
DC- 2
A remote on/off switch can be connected to terminals #11 3.3 V out 3
and #12 to control the eTrac’s power. If terminal #11 is left GND 4
ungrounded (floating), the Antenna Unit’s power will be
I/O 1* 5
controlled by the system’s built-in sleep function.
I/O 2 6

I/O 3 7
Strain Relief and Cable Protection
I/O 4 8
As with the antenna data cable, KVH recommends that I/O 5 9
you use the strain relief brackets to secure any peripheral I/O 6 10
cables to the Breakout Box. In addition, heat shrink
Remote on/off 11
sleeving should be used to protect the cables from chafing
GND 12
along the edge of the cable access holes.
*Not Used

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2.3.3 Connecting eTrac to Ship’s Power

Make certain that you have completed the wiring of the Antenna
Unit and any peripheral systems (e.g., an on/off switch) before
connecting the Breakout Box to ship’s power.

The eTrac system requires 10.5 to 32 Vdc (floating) to operate. An AC/DC converter
will be required if the system is intended to operate with AC power. While the eTrac
Breakout Box is equipped with a plug for a power supply, KVH recommends directly
wiring vessel’s power to the Breakout Box.

KVH recommends that at least 16 AWG (1mm2) stranded marine

cable be used for the connection from ship’s power to the Breakout
Box to allow for voltage drop.

1. Remove the cap from one of the side-by-side cable access holes.
2. Slide a heat shrink sleeve over the power cable.
3. Insert the power cable through the cable access hole and connect it
to terminals #1 and #2 on the J2 terminal block (shown in Figure 2-7).
Connect positive to terminal #1 and negative to terminal #2. The
power connection remains floating (ungrounded).
4. After the power cable wires are secured to the proper terminals,
secure the power cable to the Breakout Box using one of the strain
relief brackets and two screws.
5. Slide the heat shrink sleeve until it covers the portion of the power
cable that is passing through the cable access hole. Heat the sleeve to
secure it in place and provide an additional layer of protection to the
data cable.

2.3.4 Completing the Installation

1. Secure the Breakout Box to a suitable surface using screws and the
four mounting holes on the base of the Box.
2. Replace the Breakout Box cover and its two screws.

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 Installation

2.4 Preparing the eTrac System for Use with the

Inmarsat-C Service
Before the eTrac system can be used, it MUST be registered as a Mobile Earth Station
(MES) with the Inmarsat-C service. The e-mail application must also be configured
based on the information provided during the registration process.

2.4.1 Registering eTrac as an MES

The eTrac system is registered as an MES on the Inmarsat-C system using the Service
Activation Registration Form (SARF) supplied with your eTrac system. To activate
your eTrac, please complete the SARF and return it to KVH Industries. For up-to-date
airtime rates, visit www.kvh.com/inmarsatairtime. You can also contact another Inmarsat
service provider and request its SARF to activate your account.

In addition to general information (e.g., name, address, etc.), the Inmarsat Service
Number (ISN) of the eTrac MES must be specified when filling out the SARF. The ISN
is located on the Delivery Note and on the bottom of the eTrac Antenna Unit.

You must receive a mobile number for your eTrac MES from the
Inmarsat Service Provider (ISP) before beginning the easyMail
installation and configuration process.

2.4.2 Installing the easyMail Application

The informational CD-ROM packed with your eTrac system provides instructions on
how to download the Thrane & Thrane easyMail e-mail application. While there are
other mini-C protocol-compatible e-mail applications, for the purposes of this
manual, easyMail will be considered the installed application.

You must use an e-mail package that is compatible with the

Inmarsat mini-C protocol, such as the Windows-based easyMail
application or the DOS-based Capsat version for e-mail. These
applications use the Inmarsat mini-C protocol, which is compatible
with the transceiver and Inmarsat services. Other PC e-mail
applications (e.g., Microsoft Outlook) use the PPP protocol, which is
incompatible with the eTrac system and Inmarsat-C service.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

When starting up the eTrac system for the first time, it should be connected to a
Windows-based PC or laptop computer via the DB9 cable port on the Breakout Box.
The easyMail installation/configuration application available for download from
Thrane & Thrane is compatible with Windows 3.1, 95, 98, 2000, ME, and XP. If you
have a different Windows operating system, please refer to Section 2.4.4, “Manual
easyMail Configuration.”

The easyMail and Capsat e-mail applications are only compatible

with Windows- and DOS-based computers. Instructions are
provided on the CD-ROM that ships with the eTrac system.

The following procedure assumes that you have already followed the instructions
provided on the CD-ROM and successfully downloaded the easyMail application:

1. Connect the laptop or PC to the DB9 serial port connector on the

Breakout Box. Leave the eTrac system powered off at the start of the
easyMail installation process. It will be turned on later.
2. Follow the instructions on how to install easyMail.
3. If the welcome page does not start automatically, use Windows
Start->Run->Browse to select the easyMail installation file setup.exe
in the easyMail folder. When found, press OK to install easyMail.
4. If the installer needs to update some Windows files, a dialog box
will appear. Answer Yes/OK to update these files.
5. If the program shows a Version Conflict dialog box, it is
recommended that the existing file be kept. This is done by
answering Yes/OK to the question asked.
6. When the installation is complete, a shortcut to easyMail is placed in
the Start Menu Program list. Run the program by selecting Start->
Programs-> easyMail.
7. Power up the eTrac and run the easyMail program.

If the eTrac system and easyMail application were installed correctly and the PC or
laptop is connected to the Breakout Box, the Status field in the top of the easyMail
program should be green. This indicates that the protocol between easyMail and the
eTrac is up and running.

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 Installation

If the Status field is red, please select Option-> Configuration-> COM Port and select
the correct communication port. If the Status field is still red, please check the
installation and the power supply as described in Section 2, “Installation.”

2.4.3 Automatic easyMail Configuration

easyMail offers an easy way of entering the Mobile Number:

1. Select Option-> Configuration-> Mobile Number to display the

Mobile Number dialog box.
2. Enter the Mobile Number into the dialog box and press OK.
3. The eTrac MES is now ready for operation.

2.4.4 Manual easyMail Configuration

The manual configuration process is required if you are unable to use the Windows-
based installation and configuration tools described in Sections 2.4.2 and 2.4.3.

The interface to the eTrac MES is a text-based interface compatible with earlier
Thrane & Thrane Inmarsat-C MES interface protocols. The DB9 serial port is default
4800 baud, no parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit. When connected to the eTrac MES, it
will respond with a “:” when Carriage Return is pressed at the PC keyboard. This is
the prompt and indicates that the eTrac MES is ready to accept commands.

1. Use the SET command to configure the Mobile Number. The SET
command has the following syntax:
SET –u <mobile number>
2. In the following example, the Mobile Number 491234567 is
configured in the eTrac MES. The Mobile Number that you received
from the ISP should replace this sample number:
SET –u 491234567
3. The eTrac MES will respond with “The number will now be stored
permanently.”
4. Your eTrac system is now ready for operation.

34-0002 Rev. B 2-11

 Using the eTrac System

3 Using the eTrac System

3.1 An Overview of the Inmarsat-C Service
Inmarsat-C is a store-and-forward mailing system that enables you to send and
receive data to and from mobile terminals via the Inmarsat-C system. Four
geostationary satellites provide worldwide coverage. Satellite data link coverage is
excellent between 70º North and 70º South. Because the polar regions cannot be seen
from geostationary satellites, these regions are not covered.

The Inmarsat-C system is capable of:

• Transmitting data to and from a mobile unit.

• Broadcasting data to groups of mobile terminals.
• Managing position reporting from fleets of mobile units.
• Requesting data from the mobile units via a unique system polling
application.

When the eTrac Antenna Unit is transmitting, the electromagnetic

field radiated from the antenna can be harmful. To avoid danger,
always stay at least 1 ft (30 cm) from the transceiver.

The Inmarsat-C system has two satellite station types that are of interest to eTrac
users: the Network Coordination Stations (NCS) and the LES. The Inmarsat-C system
has an NCS controlling each of the four ocean regions:

• Atlantic Ocean Region East,

• Atlantic Ocean Region West,
• Indian Ocean Region, and
• Pacific Ocean Region.

Each ocean region is served by a single geostationary satellite.

Before using the Inmarsat-C system, eTrac must be registered in one of the four ocean
regions. This is done by instructing the eTrac system to login to one of the four NCSs
by launching easyMail and selecting Options-> Login as illustrated in Figure 3-1 on
the following page.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

Figure 3-1: Logging in to the NCS

Once the eTrac is logged in to an NCS, several LESes are available to transmit data.
You will need to select an LES prior to initiating a transmission so that the eTrac
knows which LES to use. A default LES can be selected by choosing Option-> Set
Default LES, which will open the selection screen shown in Figure 3-2.

Figure 3-2: Selecting the Default LES

3.2 Using eTrac to Send and Receive E-mail

The eTrac system is capable of sending and receiving e-mail messages wherever your
vessel is cruising. To do so, you will need to use the easyMail application (or some
other Inmarsat mini-C protocol-compatible e-mail application). The easyMail
software, developed by Thrane & Thrane, works in much the same way as the e-mail
applications typically found on home and office computers but uses the Inmarsat
mini-C communications protocol.

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 Using the eTrac System

The Inmarsat mini-C protocol is primarily a text and data system.

While images or attachments can be sent via the system, the
process is very slow and can become expensive. As a result, KVH
recommends that you limit your eTrac transmissions to text and
data messages. If you do send an image or attachment, the
recipient will need to rename the file with the appropriate file type;
the file name and file type are not transmitted.

Figure 3-3: The easyMail Message Window

E-mail Limitations
Because of the design of the Inmarsat-C service, there are certain limitations to the
size of the messages that can be sent:

• You can send messages up to 10 K in size via Inmarsat-C. However,

depending on variations in the Inmarsat-C service, you may be able
to transmit a message that is larger than 10 K (for example, 11 K or
12 K). The exact size can fluctuate but will never be less than 10 K.
• The easyMail application will inform you if the message being sent
is too large to transmit.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

3.2.1 Entering Information in the Address Book

and Sending an E-mail
The easyMail address book is pictured in Figure 3-4.
Figure 3-4: The easyMail Address Book

1. Click the Address Book icon on the main easyMail screen.

2. Select New Entry to set up a new recipient. The new recipient screen
is pictured in Figure 3-5.

Figure 3-5: The New Recipient Data Screen

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 Using the eTrac System

3. Click the E-Mail destination radio button.

4. Choose an 5-, 7-, or 8-bit character format based on the message that
will be sent:
– 5-bit characters: All characters are written using 5 bits per
character, which reduces the message size. However, some special
characters will be unavailable because the 5-bit alphabet is a
reduced character set.
– 7-bit characters: All characters are written using 7 bits per
character. This is the preferred setting because most characters are
available but the message size is smaller than an 8-bit message.
– 8-bit characters: All characters are written using 8 bits per
character, resulting in no reduction in size. This is the setting that
should be used when sending messages that include HTML.
5. Enter the recipient’s name in the Name field.
6. Enter the e-mail address in the E-Mail Address field.
7. Select OK to save the entry.
8. Select the recipient from the Address Book entries list and press the
To:=> button to enter that address in your message.
9. Press OK to close the Address Book.
10. Now select Option-> Set Default ISP to set the default Internet
Service Provider that should be used when sending e-mail.
11. The mail is now ready to be sent. Press the Send button and the
Sending... window will appear. Select Confirmation Request and press
OK to send the mail.
12. eTrac is now transmitting the message. The Sent Item field shows the
current status of the transmitted mail.

3.3 Using the eTrac Tracking Feature

The eTrac system can also be used to provide regular position reports. eTrac supports
standard Inmarsat-defined data reporting and position reporting and is fully
compatible with the Thrane & Thrane Capsat Manager fleet tracking program.

When an e-mail is transmitted, the eTrac system is identified to the recipient by its
Mobile Number. When using the tracking feature, the GPS position data is
transmitted in a very compact format that uses a different ID and signficantly reduces
the cost compared to normal messages.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

A position report from your eTrac is identified by the mailbox on the LES that stores
the transmitted packet. The correct mailbox is selected by specifying the LES and a
mailbox address called Data Network IDentity (DNID). Several eTrac systems can
transmit position to the same mailbox at an LES. To distinguish one eTrac’s position
reports from another, each eTrac system also transmits a member number. This is a
number between 1 and 255, enabling as many as 255 eTrac systems to transmit their
position data to the same mailbox at an LES.

Before the position reporting feature can be used, the DNID must be set up by
submitting a DNID order form to an LES that supports the Internet Gateway Option.
The LES also needs to know the e-mail address to which it will forward the eTrac
position reports.

An application, such as the Thrane & Thrane Capsat Manager fleet

tracking program, is required to decode the position report after it
has been forwarded to your e-mail account.

The LES will then download the DNID and member number into the eTrac system
via satellite. To receive this data, the eTrac must be powered up, logged into the
Inmarsat-C system, and have a clear view of the satellite. When the DNID and
member number are downloaded into the eTrac, the DNID list can be displayed using
easyMail by selecting Option-> Configuration-> DNID.

The GPS position of the eTrac’s current location can be transmitted at regular
intervals. The following process will allow you to set up the local eTrac system
configuration.

3.3.1 Local eTrac Configuration for GPS Position Reports

To configure easyMail and the eTrac to transmit regular position reports, you will use
the position reporting set-up screens, shown in Figure 3-6 on the next page.

1. In easyMail, select Option-> Configuration-> Position Report->

DNID PU Position Reporting. This will display the Reporting Set-up
window.
2. Press the New button to open the interval configuration window.
3. Select the LES, DNID and Member Number pair downloaded by the
LES.
4. Set the desired interval (e.g., selecting 2 hours will result in a
position being transmitted once every two hours).

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 Using the eTrac System

Figure 3-6: easyMail Position Reporting Set-up Screens

5. Press the OK button to start the automatic reporting.

The eTrac system is now configured to send its position at regular intervals to the
LES. The LES will store the data in the DNID mailbox and then forward it as an
attachment to your e-mail account.

34-0002 Rev. B 3-7

 Troubleshooting and Maintenance

4 Troubleshooting and Maintenance

When properly installed the eTrac system needs no maintenance. After approximately
10 years, an internal battery will need to be replaced.

4.1 Warranty/Service Information

For information on KVH warranty, repair, and liability policies, please refer to the
complete KVH warranty statement provided at the end of this manual. If you have
any questions, please call your local authorized dealer/installer or contact KVH
directly.

4.2 Handling Precautions

• Do not expose the Antenna Unit’s seam (the blue styling gasket) or
connector to high-pressure water jets.
• Exposure to chemicals containing alkalis may result in physical
degradation of the Antenna Unit.
• Do not expose the Antenna Unit to acid-curing silicone.
• Avoid contact with harsh solvents.

KVH recommends that you do not paint the Antenna Unit as it can result in signal
degradation. If it is absolutely necessary to paint the Antenna Unit, be sure to use
water-based paints or paint systems based on mild solvents.

4.3 Return Authorization

A Return Material Authorization (RMA) is required prior to returning the product to
KVH Industries. Please call our Technical Support Department at +1 401 847-3327 or
send an e-mail to [email protected] to obtain the RMA number. Write the number in
large, clear characters on the outside of the box. To avoid confusion and
misunderstandings, shipments without an RMA number clearly visible on the outside
box will be refused and returned to you at your expense. If possible, use the original
box and packing material to protect the equipment from damage in shipment. KVH
assumes no responsibility for warranty shipments from the customer to the factory if
not shipped in the manner prescribed above.

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

4.4 Repackaging for Shipment

The eTrac shipping carton has been carefully designed to protect the Antenna Unit
and its accessories during shipment. This carton and its associated packing material
should be used when repackaging for shipment. Follow the instructions provided in
Section 4.3, “Return Authorization.” Mark the carton FRAGILE to ensure careful
handling.

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 System Specifications

Appendix A
System Specifications
General Specifications
Meets all Inmarsat specifications for the Inmarsat mini-C Network for Land-mobile and
Maritime terminals. (R&TTE)
Transmit Frequency 1626.5 to 1660.5 MHz note 1
Receive Frequency 1525.0 to 1559.0 MHz note 1
Channel Spacing 5/2.5 kHz
Modulation 1200 symbols/sec BPSK
Ambiguity Resolution Unique word
Coding R _ K=7 convolutional code (interleaved code
symbols RX)
Data Rate 600 bits/sec
RX Frame Length 8.64 seconds
TX Signalling Access Mode Slotted ALOHA
TX Message Channel TDMA & FDMA, interleaved code symbols
Terminal Interface EIA/TIA-232-E DTE interface. CCITT Rec.V.24/28,
4800-115000 baud IA-5 code
I/O Interface Six dedicated In/Out pins
Open collector. Sinks 25 mA each
System Set-up S-RAM Battery backup
DC Power Source 10.5 to 32 V floating DC
RX: 1.8 W
TX: 23 W @ 12V supply
Fuse Self-recovering Poly fuse
Temperature Operating: -31ºF to 131ºF (-35ºC to 55ºC)
Storage: -40ºF to 175ºF (-40ºC to 80ºC)
Dimensions 6.4" (163 mm) dia; 5.75" (146 mm) high
Weight 2.4 lbs (1.1 kg)

Note 1. Inmarsat frequencies: TX: 1626.5-1646.5 MHz; RX: 1525 -1545 MHz

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A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

General Specifications (continued)

Operating System eCosTM operating system
Inmarsat-C Protocol Support Message transmission and reception with IA-5,
ITA-2 and binary transfer to/from the following
destinations:
– Telex
– PSTN (telephone modems and fax modems)
– PSDN (X.25 network)
– EGC message reception with automatic
geographical area selection
– Polling and data reporting with automatic
transmission of position reports down to a
recommended minimum of 1 per 5 minutes
– Special access codes
– DNID messaging
– Program unreserved data reporting
– Pre-assigned data reporting
– Transmit message size: Max 10 K
– Receive storage: 106 K
Antenna Unit Inmarsat-C/GPS omnidirectional antenna, RHC
polarised
G/T: -23.7 dB/K at 5º elevation
EIRP: 7 dBW dB at 5º elevation
Maximum Transmission Length 10 K
Solar Radiation Max. flux density 1200W/m2
Precipitation Up to 4"/hour (100 mm/hour),
droplet size 0.02" to 0.18" (0.5 to 4.5 mm)
Ice Up to 1" (25 mm)
Relative Wind Up to 87 mph (140 km/hour)
Vibration Operational Random 5-20 Hz: 0.005 g2/Hz
20-150 Hz: -3dB/oct. (0.5g RMS)
Vibration Survival Random 5-20 Hz: 0.05 g2/Hz
20-150 Hz: -3dB/oct. (1.7g RMS)
Shock Half sine 20g/11ms
Protection Against Solid
Foreign Objects IP68 rating

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 B-1
2.52"

predrilled holes for use with

(64 mm)
Appendix B

The eTrac baseplate has

1.26"
Mounting

(32 mm)

Mounting Hardware
Template

three M4 screws.
A
A
2.19" (55.5 mm)
2.91" ( 74 mm)
1.46" (37 mm)
3 X 120
A
For connector: Drill a 1.25" ( 32 mm) hole.
A: Drill three .19" ( 5 mm) holes for M4 screws.
 KVH Industries Limited Warranty: eTrac
Limited Warranty on Hardware
KVH Industries, Inc. warrants the KVH product purchased against defects in materials for
and against factory labor costs for a period of ONE (1) year from the date of original retail
purchase by the original purchaser. It is the customer’s responsibility to verify the date of
purchase by returning the warranty card included with the product to KVH within 30
days of purchase, or by providing a copy of a dated sales receipt for the KVH product
under warranty with the warranty claim. If this date cannot be verified, the warranty
period will begin 30 days after the date of manufacture of the original product purchased.

If you discover a defect, KVH will, at its option, repair, replace or refund the purchase
price of the product at no charge to you, provided you return it during the warranty
period, transportation charges prepaid, to the factory direct. Please attach your name,
address, telephone number, a description of the problem and a copy of the bill of sale or
sales receipt as proof of date of original retail purchase, to each product returned to
warranty service. Alternatively, you may bring the product to an Authorized KVH
dealer/distributor for repair. During the first year, and if the product was installed by an
Authorized KVH dealer/distributor (identified with the KVH Authorized
dealer/distributor list), KVH will cover the dealer’s/distributor’s labor charges for
warranty repairs, provided the dealer/distributor contacts KVH for pre-approval of the
charges. Approval of charges is at KVH’s sole discretion.

This Limited Warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by accident,
abuse, misuse or misapplication or has been modified without the written permission of
KVH; if any KVH serial number has been removed or defaced; or if any factory-sealed
part of the system has been opened without authorization.

Return Authorization
A Return Material Authorization is required prior to returning the product to KVH
Industries. Please call our Technical Support Department at +1 401 847-3327 or send an e-
mail to [email protected] to obtain the RMA number. Write the number in large, clear
characters on the outside of the box. To avoid confusion and misunderstandings,
shipments without an RMA number clearly visible on the outside box will be refused and
returned to you at your expense. If possible, use the original box and packing material to
protect the equipment from damage in shipment. KVH assumes no responsibility for
warranty shipments from the customer to the factory if not shipped in the manner
prescribed above.
A Guide to the KVH eTrac Satellite Communications System

THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE THE ONLY WARRANTIES
GIVEN BY KVH WITH RESPECT TO ANY PRODUCT FURNISHED HEREUNDER; KVH
MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY CUSTOM OR
TRADE USAGE, AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SAID EXPRESS
WARRANTIES SHALL NOT BE ENLARGED OR OTHERWISE AFFECTED BY
TECHNICAL OR OTHER ADVICE OR SERVICE PROVIDED BY KVH IN CONNECTION
WITH ANY PRODUCT.

KVH's liability in contract, tort or otherwise arising out of or in connection with any
product shall not exceed the price paid for the product. IN NO EVENT SHALL KVH BE
LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, TORT OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES OR LOST PROFITS OR GOODWILL (INCLUDING ANY DAMAGES
RESULTING FROM LOSS OF USE, DELAY IN DELIVERY OR OTHERWISE) ARISING
OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE PERFORMANCE OR USE OR POSSESSION
OF ANY PRODUCT, OR ANY OTHER OBLIGATIONS RELATING TO THE PRODUCT,
EVEN IF KVH HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

If any implied warranty, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose, cannot be excluded under applicable law, then such implied warranty
shall be limited in duration to ONE (1) YEAR from the date of the original retail purchase
of this product by the original purchaser.

Some states/countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or

liability for incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply
to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state/country to state/country.

www.kvh.com
 TT_98_117623_KVH-A

KVH Industries, Inc. • 50 Enterprise Center Middletown, RI 02842 U.S.A. • Phone: +1 401 847-3327 Fax: +1 401 849-0045
E-mail: [email protected] Internet: www.kvh.com

KVH® and eTrac™ are trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc.