Installation and User Manual

Maritime VSAT systems

DSi6Ku Pro

DSi6Ku Pro
DSi9Ku Pro
DSi9 Ka Pro
DSi13Ku Pro

Doc ID 0304 08.04.22 Page 1/34

EPAK Support Contact Details

Please contact us for any technical enquiries:

EPAK GmbH
Spinnereistr. 7
04179 Leipzig
Telephone Business hours +49 (0) 341 – 2120260
Emergency Telephone (active during weekends and holidays, 9h-18h): +49 (0) 1575-7954223
Email: support@epak.de

Please keep your serial number ready.

VSAT Serial Number

Figure 1: Antenna label with serial number

The serial number (standard format: 090UC.10.1843.0000) will be required for all service requests regarding
this product.

You can find the serial number of your EPAK VSAT system both engraved on the chassis of the antenna
(Figure 1) and on the delivery note sent to you with the system.

Disclaimer
Any responsibility or liability for loss or damage in connection with the use of this product and the
accompanying documentation is disclaimed by EPAK. The information in this manual is provided for
information purposes only, is subject to change without notice and may contain errors or inaccuracies.
Manuals issued by EPAK are periodically revised and updated. Anyone relying on this information should
acquire the most current version e.g. from https://www.epak.de. EPAK is not responsible for the content or
accuracy of any translations or reproductions, in whole or in part, of this manual from any other source.

Copyright
© 2019 EPAK GmbH. All rights reserved.

Trademark acknowledgements
EPAK is a registered trademark of EPAK GmbH.

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction...................................................................................................................................................... 4
2 Safety Recommendations & Precautions........................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Microwave radiation hazard........................................................................................................................ 5
2.2 Radar interference...................................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 Exposure to rain / moisture......................................................................................................................... 6
2.4 Necessity of grounding the equipment....................................................................................................... 6
2.5 Power supply.............................................................................................................................................. 6
2.6 Maintain ambient temperature for IDU....................................................................................................... 6
2.7 Maintain ambient temperature for ODU...................................................................................................... 6
3 System Components List................................................................................................................................ 7
4 Installation Procedure...................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1 Tools required for Installation...................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Select Antenna location.............................................................................................................................. 8
4.2.1 Free line-of-sight towards satellite......................................................................................................... 8
4.2.2 Mounting surface requirements............................................................................................................. 8
4.2.3 Radar interferences............................................................................................................................... 9
4.3 Planning the cable paths.......................................................................................................................... 10
4.4 Drilling...................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.5 Installing the Antenna............................................................................................................................... 12
4.6 Installation on a mast................................................................................................................................ 12
4.7 Removing Transport Lock of the Antenna................................................................................................. 13
4.8 Installing the Indoor Unit........................................................................................................................... 14
4.9 Power supply for VSAT system................................................................................................................ 15
4.10 Antenna Grounding................................................................................................................................ 16
4.11 System Cable Connections.................................................................................................................... 17
4.12 Wiring VSAT Ku-Band Systems.............................................................................................................. 17
5 Operating the VSAT system.......................................................................................................................... 18
5.1 ACU panel................................................................................................................................................ 18
5.2 Accessing the ACU................................................................................................................................... 21
5.2.1 Status -> Dashboard........................................................................................................................... 21
5.2.2 Status -> Network................................................................................................................................ 23
5.2.3 Status -> System................................................................................................................................. 23
5.3 System Configuration............................................................................................................................... 23
5.3.1 Configuration -> Network..................................................................................................................... 23
5.3.2 Configuration -> Priority....................................................................................................................... 25
5.3.3 Configuration -> Antenna..................................................................................................................... 25
5.3.4 Configuration -> Satellite..................................................................................................................... 25
5.3.5 Configuration -> Versions.................................................................................................................... 26
5.4 Account Details........................................................................................................................................ 27
5.5 Service Activation..................................................................................................................................... 27
5.6 Maintenance............................................................................................................................................. 27
5.7 Individual dome painting........................................................................................................................... 28
6 Hardware configuration................................................................................................................................. 28
6.1 BUCs........................................................................................................................................................ 28
6.2 LNBs......................................................................................................................................................... 28
6.3 Supported Modem Types......................................................................................................................... 28
6.4 NMEA Connector...................................................................................................................................... 28
7 Datasheets.................................................................................................................................................... 29
7.1 ACU.......................................................................................................................................................... 29
7.2 Antenna.................................................................................................................................................... 29
8 Glossary........................................................................................................................................................ 30

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1 Introduction

Intended readers

This is an installation and user manual for the EPAK VSAT systems PRO Series, intended for installers of the
system and service personnel. Personnel installing or servicing the system must be properly trained and
authorized by EPAK. It is important that you observe all safety requirements listed in the beginning of this
manual, and install the system according to the guidelines in this manual.

Product description

EPAK VSAT antennas are automatic satellite tracking systems for internet access made for maritime
applications. Earth Stations on Vessels (ESV) are used to enable broadband access, data
communication, and telephony via satellite links, operating in the fixed satellite service while the vessels
are travelling near the coast or on the high seas. EPAK's VSAT systems are designed to track those
satellites with great precision in real-time response to the ship’s motions even in rough sea conditions and
ensure a seamless availability of the broadband internet connection on the move.

Such VSAT systems consist of two major units, the antenna Outdoor Unit (ODU) and the Indoor Unit (IDU).
The ODU is protected by a UV-stabilized, maritime climate-proof, and easy to maintain radome. The antenna
uses a 3-axis motion system, with automatic skew adjustment. This feature in combination with state-of-the
art tracking technology (twin RF tracking receiver + 6D inertial + GNSS & NMEA - optional) guarantees an
unmatched tracking speed up to 50°/s. The IDU consists of the Antenna Control Unit (ACU) and satellite
modem. The ACU is a device that communicates with the Antenna, the modem and optionally with the
heading data from the vessel.

This unit provides an easy to use web-interface for configuring the antenna, checking the antenna's current
status and configuring your network.

EPAK systems can be easily configured in a variety of ways using different LNBs, BUCs and modems to
accomplish individual application needs. To guarantee the highest performance and reliability, EPAK
designs and engineers all of its antennas' major RF components, control boards, mechanical parts and
radome in house. All the components are optimized for rough marine applications. From small vessels up to
super yachts, no matter whether sailing or motor yachts, EPAK VSAT series are eminently suitable for all
types of vessels.

EPAK's VSAT systems are designed to meet the satellite operators requirements of every ESV for receiving
and transmitting the data via Ku or Ka-band. Once the connection to a satellite is established, the system
will stay connected due to a 360° high-speed tracking system. That guarantees a non-stop connection to the
internet while the vessel is anchored or even while cruising in open seas under rough conditions. The
antennas are available in dish sizes in the range of 60cm, 90cm and 130cm (DSi6, DSi9 and DSi13
respectively).

EPAK also offers several additional options to accommodate special requirements. The Diversity Kit assures
the avoidance of blind spots by combining the free line of sight ranges of two antennas in one bundle. This
will prevent any loss of satellite signal through blockages. Additionally EPAK also offers a vessel
management router for network control, WiFi services and Voip/Voice connections.

Your safety
All personnel who operate equipment or do maintenance as specified in this manual must know and follow the
safety precautions. The warnings and cautions that follow apply to all parts of this manual.

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2 Safety Recommendations & Precautions

2.1 Microwave radiation hazard

Figure 2.1: Microwave radiation safety distance

Ensure that all personnel stay outside of the safety distance during antenna operation.

During operation the antenna uses high-powered BUCs in order to establish a two-way
communication with the satellite. The resulting radiation is hazardous. The label on the radome
depicts the safety distance for the maximum BUC power usable for the respective dish configuration.

The FCC specifications specify a limit value for the power density of 1.0 mW / cm² as a general limit for the Ku
and Ka frequency range. In a professional environment, this limit is higher at 5 mW / cm².
The values calculated below use the limit value of 1 mW / cm². They are always rounded up to the next
possible value divisible by 5. The maximum antenna gain of the system is used for the calculation.The safe
distance mentioned below only applies to the area in the main beam direction (direction in which the antenna
is transmitting, eg azimuth: 360 °; elevation: -10 ° to 90 °). From this it follows that it is largely safe “under the
antenna”. Please check the table below for the safe distances according to the dish size and BUC used.

Antenna Type BUC Type Minimum Safe Distance

DSi6 KU 8W 20m
16W 30m

Dsi9 KU 8W 30m
16W 40m
25W 50m

DSi9 KA 3W 35m
5W 45m

DSi13 KU 8W 40m
16W 60m
25W 75m
40W 95m
60W 115m

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2.2 Radar interference
• The antenna must be mounted as far away as possible from the ship’s radar and high power radio
transmitters as they can affect the antenna performance. To avoid the worst interference, the antenna
should be mounted at a different vertical level – either 15° above or 15° below the radar. Kindly note
the recommended minimum distances between the ODU and X-band/S-Band radars in the table
4.2.3.
• After the installation is completed all other electronic systems, i.e. GPS, Radar, VHF, FM, AM etc.,
should be tested for full functionality while the antenna is switched on.

2.3 Exposure to rain / moisture

• Do not open sealed electronic components on the ODU and the ACU. Doing that will void the
warranty of the equipment.
• The ACU and the satellite modem must always be kept indoors. Exposure to rain, sunlight or moisture
may damage the equipment.

2.4 Necessity of grounding the equipment

Grounding of the equipment is necessary to avoid potential differences between the ship’s ground potential
and the equipment’s. The antenna’s ground connection shall be connected directly to the ship’s ground to
avoid undesired current flow. For details refer to paragraph 4.9 Grounding.

2.5 Power supply

The ACU requires 90-264V AC @ 47-63 Hz Input voltage & frequency. The ACU then supplies DC power to
the Antenna. Use of an online UPS is mandatory for EPAK systems, otherwise the warranty becomes void.
For more details see 4.8.

2.6 Maintain ambient temperature for IDU

Proper cooling and ventilation is required for all indoor equipment. The ACU can be stored at a temperature
between -40°C to 85°C. During operation, the ambient temperature must be maintained between -20°C to
55°C. Frequent imbalances in the environment can damage the IDU electronics.

2.7 Maintain ambient temperature for ODU

Operating temperature for the ODU ranges from -30°C to 55°C, while the storage temperature range is
between -30°C to 85°C. When temperatures fall below -30°C, the antenna system must be kept on to avoid
damage to electronic parts at re-start. Alternatively an antenna heating system should be used.

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3 System Components List
In our standard delivery, you will find the following system components.

Component Details
ODU Description

• Stabilized Antenna Pedestal with electronic control modules

• Feed-assembly
• Ku band BUC & LNB
• Inbuilt GPS receiver
• Radome assembly

Features
• 3-axis motion system + auto skew adjustment
• Range movement from -15° to +120°
• Tracking speed up to 50°/s
ACU (IDU) Description
• Antenna Control Unit
• Power cable and Ethernet cable

Functionality
• Configuring satellite & beams
• Monitoring live status of the antenna
• Providing Internet access & voip services to the vessel

Mounting screws DSi6 / DSi9 4 mounting screws

DSi13 : 12 mounting screws

VSAT manual VSAT manual for easy operation & configuration of the system.

Up-to-date documents are available for download on

www.epak.de/en.

Add-ons (Optionally supplied by EPAK)

Component Description
Satellite Modem Supported modem types:
• iDirect modems - Evolution, Velocity platform
• Hughes HX200
• ViaSat SBT-M
• Comtech CDM-250/840
• Gilat series - Capricon, Gilat SkyEdge-II Pro
• Paradise PD25L, Datacom Q-Flex
• SpaceBridge modem
• Tooway
• Romantis / Eastar UHP 1000 / UHP 2000
• others on request

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 Vessel Management Router • Network monitoring & control
• Traffic prioritization
• Hotspot management
• Managing Crew calling services
• Web Filtering
PBX equipment Handling SIP service for making low cost Voip calls
IP Telephones For making VoIP calls
UPS Online UPS system
Cables 2x Double shielded coax cable (ECOFLEX10 or 15) with N-Plugs
2x Double shielded coax cable (RG6) with F and TNC-plugs

4 Installation Procedure
The installation of our systems is easy compared to existing VSAT systems. This section gives a guideline
and answers all your questions on how and where to install the ODU and IDU. It is highly recommended to
plan your installation according to this in-order to prevent mistakes and damages to the vessel or the VSAT
system.

4.1 Tools required for Installation

Following tools are required for installation.

electric drill; screwdriver 4 mm and 8.5-9 mm drills Hexagon socket screw size 13 screw wrench
key size 6

4.2 Select Antenna location

The antenna's selected mounting position should have the following characteristics.
4.2.1 Free line-of-sight towards satellite
The antenna needs a free line-of-sight to the satellite for uninterrupted operation. Any obstacles can reduce
service availability and tracking performance. Please note that the free line-of-sight depends on the vessel
geolocation and the selected satellite. The best location for the antenna is on a raised platform or on one
end of the vessel as shown in Figure below.
4.2.2 Mounting surface requirements
The pedestal/mast must be rigid enough to carry the antenna's weight as well as eliminating the vibrations
of the antenna/vessel while tracking/being on the move.

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 Bad location: in such a situation it is Better: by setting the antenna to one Best location: if possible, place the
very likely to incur a wide blind spot. end of the ship, the obstacle can be antenna on top of the boat.
overcome.

Figure 4.1: Finding the best location for the antenna

4.2.3 Radar interferences

Figure 4.2: Minimum safe distance from radar

It is very important to not install the antenna near the radar. Radars and satellite antenna's operate in the
microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum. A radar placed close to the ODU can degrade the
antenna's performance. Thus it is necessary to maintain the minimum distance between the two equipments.

The minimum acceptable separation between a radar and the antenna is determined by the radar
wavelength/frequency and the power emitted by the radar. The table below show some "rule of thumb"
minimum separation distances for radar power at X and S band. As long as the minimum distance listed
below is applied, antenna damage is normally avoided.

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 X- Band S-Band
(~3 cm/ 10 GHz) min distance (~10 cm/ 3 GHz) min distance
Radar Power Minimum distance between VSAT and Radar with 20° vertical separation
0-20 kW 1.0 m 2.0 m
20-50 kW 2.0 m 4.0 m
50 kW+ 3.5 m 7.0 m

The presence of one or more S or X-band radars within a radius up to 100m may cause a minor degradation
of the Ku-band connection. The degradation will be most significant at high radar pulse repetition rates.
Especially in poor receiving conditions (objects blocking the signal path, heavy rainfall or icing, low satellite
elevation and violent ship movements) the small extra degradation due to the radar(s) could cause poor
connection quality.

4.3 Planning the cable paths

Please check which walls are suitable and if existing openings can be used for the cables. Laying the cables
is usually done by an electrician in the dockyard with proper certificates to alter the ships installations or the
ships structure. If you're in charge of laying the cables, make sure it is done in accordance with the following
rules:

• Use suitable coax cables: double shielded EcoFlex 10 or 15 is recommended. EPAK warranty does
not cover decreased performance due to improper wiring.
• The maximum recommended cable length for EcoFlex10 is 50 m and Ecoflex15 is 80 m. Make sure
that the cable length does not exceed this value. If maximum cable length is too short for your
installation, favour higher grade cables over in-line amplifier.
• Avoid placing RF cables too close to other cables which might carry "noise".
• Fit and secure cables properly. Use shrink tubing with heat activated adhesive to seal connectors.
• Avoid sharp bends and kinks on cables.
• To connect antenna and ACU, use cables in one piece; do not extend cables, do not split cables.
• Use only high quality RF connectors.

4.4 Drilling
For an ideal mounting of the antenna all possible drilling patterns are prepared with a pre-drilled hole of 2 mm
in the bottom of the radome. Please refer to the included templates for the drilling measurements. Installation
should be done with the supplied M10x35 screws. They can be used for a mounting plate thickness of up to
15mm. For thicker plates from 15mm to 30mm use M10x50 screws.
Note: Using longer screws than recommended could potentially cause damage to the system.

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 Dimensions and drilling patterns

Click for full

view or refer
to page 31

Figure 4.3: Dimensions 60 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)

Click for full

view or refer
to page 32

Figure 4.4: Dimensions 90 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)

Click for full

view or refer
to page 33

Figure 4.5: Dimensions 130 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)

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4.5 Installing the Antenna
Before installing the antenna, please take the following precautions:

Caution:

• The radome has to be properly fixed on the antenna before installing it on the platform.
• For safety during transport, the antenna has locks for the movement in skew, elevation, roll and
azimuth. Do not open these transportation locks before installation.

Procedure:
• Ensure that the mounting base is solid and steady.
• The antenna unit must have a clear line of sight to the satellite and there should be no interference.
• Make sure that the cable lengths are sufficient to reach the mounting platform. Recommended
maximum length is 50 m for ECOFLEX10 cables, and 80m for ECOFLEX15 cables.
• Prepare the mast / mounting pedestal with the drilling measurements shown in section 4.3.
• Now, attach a 4-part sling around the antenna to lift and place the unit on the pre-drilled holes and
fasten it with the included screws. The screws have to be mounted from below and through the base
plate of the antenna.
• Connect both the coaxial cables (RX and TX) at the base of the antenna.
• Close all drilled holes with waterproof sealing material to avoid any water penetration.
• Finally, open all the transportation locks according to our manual before operating the antenna.

4.6 Installation on a mast

The below table shows the minimum dimensions for the mast when mounting an EPAK DSi9 VSAT. Note that
the values are only guidelines. Always consider the environment and characteristics of the ship before
deciding on the mast dimensions.
Mast without braces
Max. free mast Outer diameter Wall Thickness Weight
length (steel, m) (mm) (mm) (kg/m)
0.6 220 5 26.5
0.8 250 5 30.2
1.0 270 5 32.7

Mast with 3 braces

Max. free mast Outer diameter Wall Thickness Outer Diameter
length (steel, m) Mast (mm) Mast (mm) Braces (mm)
with 5mm
thickness
1.2 140 10 50
1.2 200 5 50
1 1.6 140 10 70
1.6 200 5 70
2.0 160 10 70
2.0 200 5 70
2.5 180 10 80
2.5 220 5 80
+- 35° 3.51 245 6 80

1 Braces meet at 2.5m and mast extends beyond

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4.7 Removing Transport Lock of the Antenna

After the system has been

securely placed on the mounting
platform, only then proceed to
remove the transportation lock.
It is important to note that the
transportation lock must be
removed before powering on the
system, otherwise this will
impose strain on the mechanics
of the antenna.

Four handles are used to lock

the skew, elevation, roll and
azimuth movement of the
antenna. A visible red dot on the
handle indicates that the handle
is locked. A green dot indicates
that it is open. To open or close,
pull the handle towards you and
turn until it locks in the new
position. Confirm by checking
movement of the antenna.

Figure 4.6: Position of transport locks

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 Step 1 Release the skew movement by
turning the handle into upward position as
shown in the figure.

Step 2 Release the elevation movement

by turning the handle to downward position
as shown below.

Step 3 Release the roll movement by

turning the handle to the right as shown in
the figure below

Step 4 Release azimuth movement by

turning the handle left as shown below.

Figure 4.7: Transportation lock open-closed

4.8 Installing the Indoor Unit

Before installing the IDU, find a suitable location for the equipment within cable lengths. Ensure that the
display of the control unit can be easily read and the front-panel is accessible. Also, allow sufficient room for
connecting the cables behind the control unit. Check the following diagram to find the dimensions of the unit.

Figure 4.8: ACU Front view

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 Figure 4.9: ACU top view

The following points need to be considered during installation of the IDU

• All IDU components (ACU+Modem) should be mounted in a professional 19" server rack. For the
installation, operation and maintenance enough space should be available at the front and also some
space must be allowed behind the unit for the cables.
• Proper cooling and ventilation is required for all IDUs. The ACU should be stored within a temperature
range of -40°C to 85°C. During operation, the ambient temperature must be maintained between -20°C to
55°C.
• Fresh air intake is from the front of the ACU, and warm air is dispensed out the back. Therefore, Both
front and back panel of the ACU must be kept clear to allow ventilation. Otherwise, overheating might
cause system shutdown.
• Either the UPS is provided by EPAK or a compatible UPS (on-line/double-conversion type) has to be
installed by the ship owner for powering the IDU.

4.9 Power supply for VSAT system

The ACU requires 90-264V AC @47-63 Hz, 1 phase. However, as the power supplied by vessel generators
can fluctuate considerably, an online type UPS is compulsory for EPAK VSAT system otherwise the warranty
becomes void. The ACU supplies the ODU with 48V DC power and the BUC with either 24V or 48V
depending on the model. There is also a switched AC outlet at the back of the ACU which can be used for the
modem’s power supply.

By default the ACU is equipped with a 2.5A fuse. This is suitable for operation with 230V. A spare 5.0A fuse is
provided alongside the ACU, which should be used instead, in the rare case that the antenna system should
be operated with 110V.

Caution: Grounding of the equipment is necessary to avoid potential differences between the ship’s
ground potential and the equipment’s. The antenna’s ground connection can be connected directly to
the ship’s ground to avoid undesired current flow. For details refer to paragraph 4.9 Grounding.

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4.10 Antenna Grounding

When grounding the antennas, there are two different scenarios.

Case 1: Potential of the antenna corresponds to that of the platform/mast/hull

Case 2: Potential of the antenna does not correspond to that of the platform/mast/hull

Case 1 is the standard scenario for all 60cm and 90cm antennas. If you require a galvanic separation (case 2)
for your 60cm or 90cm EPAK antenna, please indicate this in your order.

In order to avoid galvanic corrosion, the hull of a ship is sometimes electrically decoupled from the rest of the
electronics. The hull of a ship is therefore at a very unique potential. In this case this potential must not be
connected within the antenna system.

Case 1: same potential Case 2: different potential

An electrical connection should be established An electrical connection between terminal/terminal
between terminal/terminal plate, the base plate plate and the antenna chassis should be established.
and the antenna chassis. The base plate is pulled to the potential of the hull of
the ship via the screw connections to the
podium/mast/hull. The base plate remains electrically
isolated from the rest of the antenna.

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4.11 System Cable Connections
Please note the following points before making
the connections.

• Ensure to power off the circuit which you

are working on to avoid any short.
• Drip-loops should precede the entry point
as shown in below diagram. This will avoid
any water to seep into the ACU.
• The ACU has to be connected to 230V AC
50Hz from a online type UPS, otherwise
Figure 4.10 Cable connection with drip loop
the warranty on EPAK system will be void.
• After the ODU and IDU are installed,
proceed to connect the ACU and ODU as
follows:

• The two antenna cables (RX+power and TX) must be connected to the ACU and the ODU.
• The modem cables (RX, TX and WAN) must be connected to the ACU.
• The ACU must be connected to 230V/50Hz AC from our recommended UPS.
• Vessel network or switch can be connected to Lan1 /Lan2 of ACU.
• The modem must be powered by the ACU with provided power cable.
• The user can also connect the ship's gyro information (optional) via the NMEA connector at the back-
panel of the ACU.

4.12 Wiring VSAT Ku-Band Systems

Figure 4.11: Wiring scheme VSAT Ku-Band Systems

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5 Operating the VSAT system
Once the Antenna and ACU have been installed safely and all the system cabling is connected, you can
power-on the system. Please refer to the power supply requirements of this document to check the
requirements. If there is already a pre-configured satellite, after powering-on the antenna will automatically
adjust all its parameters (sensor, gyro, elevation, skew etc) and lock onto the satellite automatically. However,
the user can also easily configure the desired parameters from the ACU's web-interface.

The ACU has to be mounted into a standard 19-inch rack. All EPAK VSAT systems provide a web interface for
basic monitoring and configuration, which can be accessed by connecting to any one of its LAN interfaces.
Therefore, it is recommended to mount the ACU where the antenna status can be checked.

The ACU is connected to the ODU via 2 coaxial cables RX and TX. The RX cable carries the receive signal in
IF, and the DC power supply for the antenna. The TX cable carries the transmit signal in IF, reference signal
for the BUC and power for the BUC.

The ACU is connected via two coaxial cables (RX & TX) and one Ethernet cable to the satellite modem. The
ACU forwards the IP traffic from the modem to its own LAN interfaces.

You can also connect the ship's compass to the NMEA interface of the ACU for accurate heading information.
This heading information is optional, so if it is not connected,the antenna relies on the heading data obtained
from the GPS receiver fixed to the antenna.

Please check the description given below for a short overview of the key functions of the ACU.

5.1 ACU panel

The EPAK VSAT system is operated by the control unit. See below a short overview of its front and back
panel and its corresponding functionality.

Front-panel keys:

Figure 5.1: ACU Front view

A: Power Switch E: Status LEDs

B: Service Port F: Display
C: USB port G: Input buttons
D: LAN1 connection H: SIM card slots- SIM1, SIM2

A Power Switch Switch the ACU on or off.

Hold this button for 2s to force the ACU to shut down.
B Service Hatch The Service hatch covers a micro-USB port and a RF port (to check
received signal spectrum) .Only to be removed by service technicians
or if you are instructed by a technician to do so.
C USB Port This port is used to mount a USB drive.
D LAN1 Port This port can be connected to your local network, a network switch or a
PC
E Status LEDs Shows a quick view of the status of the RX, TX and Network status

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F Display Displays the current status of the ACU and antenna.
G Input Buttons The input keys lets you navigate the menu and access quick settings.
H Sim Slots The user can insert standard SIM cards in SIM1 or SIM2

Back-Panel Schematic:

Figure 5.2: ACU rear view

A: LAN3 Connector G: NMEA Connector M: Modem RX

B: unused port H: NMEA Protocol Select N: Modem TX
C: Serial Connector RS232 I: GPIO Connector (opt.) O: Antenna TX
D: WAN Connector J: LTE Antenna connector P: Fan Outlet
E: LAN2 Connector K: USB Port Q: Slave Mains Power Connector
F: OpenBMIP Connector L: Antenna RX R: Mains Power Input and Switch

A LAN3 Connector (RJ45) This port can be connected to your local network, a network switch
or a PC.
B Unused port --
C Serial Connector RS232 (RJ45) Connect this port to a RS232 device which should be controlled by
the ACU.
Use this port only if you are instructed to do so by a technician.
D WAN Connector (RJ45) Connect this port to the WAN port of your modem.
E LAN2 Connector (RJ45) Connect this port to your local network, a network switch or a PC.
F OpenBMIP Connector (RJ45) Use this port to connect a modem which supports OpenBMIP.
Use only if you are instructed to do so by a technician.
G NMEA Connector (two pole) Use this port to connect (if available) the ACU to your vessels
compass. Observe correct polarity.
H NMEA Protocol Select Switch Set this switch according to the used NMEA protocol on your vessel
(RS232 or RS422/RS485).
Change only if you are instructed to do so by a technician.
I GPIO Connector Optional connector to extend the ACUs connectivity by two general
purpose inputs or outputs.
J LTE Connector Connect the LTE antenna to this port
K USB Port Use this port to communicate serially with the ACU
1
L Antenna RX (N) Connect the RX cable from the antenna to this port.
M Modem RX (TNC) Connect to the RX port of your modem.
N Modem TX (TNC) Connect to the TX port of your modem.
1
O Antenna TX (N) Connect the TX cable from the antenna to this port.
P Fan Outlet The ACU is a high power device, make sure that the fan outlet is
never obstructed.

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Q Slave Mains Connector Connect the power supply of your modem to this port.
R Mains Switch & Mains Input & Switches the ACU off completely.
Fuse Holder Connect the ACU to a 110V or 230V AC outlet.
Access this hatch to replace a broken fuse.

1
Those connectors carry the supply for the BUC and antenna. Do not connect or disconnect while the ACU is
turned on!

Access to the Webinterface:

Connect a computer to this port if you need to access the ACU via network.

Access: Lan2 with ethernet cable

Address: 192.168.2.254
Username: admin
Password: <last 5 digits of ACU serial number>

Please contact itservice@epak.de for remote support.

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5.2 Accessing the ACU
All EPAK VSAT systems provide a web interface for basic monitoring and configuration. The connection
interface is provided by any PC connected to the ACU (through a local network connection). Users can simply
use their web browser to access this functionality without additional software installation.

LAN1 LAN2
ACU IP address 192.168.1.254 192.168.2.254
Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0 255.255.255.0
DHCP range 192.168.1.1 - 192.168.1.200 192.168.2.1 - 192.168.2.200

Enter the supplied username and password to gain

access to the features. If you do not have the login
details, please contact your administrator or EPAK IT
service. In case your system has not been
configured yet, use the following credentials:

Username: admin
Password: <last 5 digits of ACU serial number>

Navigation Menu

Upon successful login, the user overview page will be displayed on the
screen. On the left hand side of the screen, you can see the Navigation
menu. This menu shows the sections where you can view the ACU
status and change various configurations of the system. Selecting the
Overview link will bring you back to the Home (Overview) page.

System Status

In this section you can view various system states and monitor the health
of the system. This page shows the live status of ACU and antenna. You
can access the Navigation Menu and the Display customization menu on
the left hand side of this screen.

5.2.1 Status -> Dashboard

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Display:
The user is able to view live details about the received signal, like the received SNR in dB, the Tx state of the
antenna (Muted / unmuted) , the orbit position of the satellite, the satellite name and the current state of the
antenna (Power on / Searching / Optimize / Fine Optimize).

Signal--to-Noise-Ratio TX State Satellite Position

Satellite Name

Antenna State

Status LEDS:
There are 3 LEDs on the ACU front-panel. The first RX LED represents the Receive Status of the Antenna
(Green – RX lock, Blue – No RX lock, white/off – No connection to antenna). The second LED represents
the transmit status in the ACU ( green – BUC on and transmitting, blue – BUC on but not transmitting, white –
BUC powered off ). The last LED show the system errors ( Red – error in ACU, white /off – no errors).

Signal Strength:
The user can view the live Signal to Noise ratio (dB), signal power (dBm), the freqeuncy and symbol rate of
the received signal.

GPS Position:
This widget shows the GPS position, vessel speed and the heading according to the GPS antenna mounted
on the ODU.

ACU Diagnostics:
The ACU diagnostics report shows the live report of following ACU parameters: input voltage measured from
the PSU line (Input Volt), speed in rpm of backside fan (fan1 speed), temperature of 12V converter (T12
Temp), speed in rpm of board fan (fan2 speed), the Central Processing Unit temperature in Celcius (CPU
Temp), 12V converter current in Ampere (I12 current), air temperature inside ACU in Celcius (Rfbrd temp),
relative percentage humidity inside ACU (Humidity).

Antenna Diagnostics:
The Antenna Diagnostics widget show the live report of the following Antenna parameters: The ODU voltage
in Volts (ODU Volt), the current consumption of the antenna (ODU curr), the BUC voltage in Volts (BUC volt),
the BUC current consumption in Ampere (BUC curr), the received signal strength in dbm (Rssi) and the
temperature measured at the ODU regulator (ODU temp).

Traffic Overview:
This widget shows the network bandwidth of each interface of the ACU.

Antenna Orientation:
This widget shows the expected (Calculated) and current Azimuth, Elevation, Skew and Heading of the
antenna.

Logged in Users:
This widget shows the IP addresses of all the users
currently logged in to the system.

Network:
Here you can check the IP addresses of all the network
interfaces.

Transmit Path
The user can control the transmit path of the ACU with
this widget. TX mute off will enable the transmission of TX
signal, while TX mute will disable the TX transmission

NMEA status
The user has the option to enable / disable transmission of
NMEA data from the vessel to the antenna.

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It is possible to customize the overview page. To proceed,
click on the arrow icon as shown on the right. You can
simply show/hide each widget by clicking on the links. After
making changes, please click on “Apply” at the top of the
page to save your custom view.

5.2.2 Status -> Network

The Network Page shows the network traffic on each network interface on hourly and monthly basis. You can
also check the live network traffic on the dynamic graphs on the right-hand side of the screen.

5.2.3 Status -> System

This page is useful to
monitor functionality of
the system. It shows the
graphs of CPU load, the
memory statistics, the
system temperature and
the used disk space.
The graphs show data
over a day, over the last
week and over the last
month.

5.3 System Configuration

This section is used to configure the ACU network interfaces, add the modem configuration, configure the
network priority settings, add the satellite information, control the Antenna’s mode of operation and control
and update the ACU software.

5.3.1 Configuration -> Network

Modem
In the Modem section, you can select the modem
type, the IP address type (static/DHCP) and the IP
address of the modem. The system selects a
default IP address for you. However, please
change the IP address based on the option file or
configuration file of your current modem.

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You can also select the OpenAMIP configuration if your modem supports this protocol. If you do not find the
correct modem type in this list, please contact EPAK for more details.

If your current modem has a traffic VLAN IP address, please fill in the details for this as well.

For SNMP supported modems, the SNMP version, read/write community and GPS (only for mobile units) are
necessary. The other OIDs can be entered optionally.

Interfaces
In the Interfaces section, you can configure the IP addresses of each Network interface and also select 2 DNS
servers for your system. If an external power supply unit (PSU) is connected to the ACU to power the BUC,
then the user can add its IP address and save the configuration by clicking on “Apply” at the top-left side of
the page. An external PSU is only required for 40W and above BUC wattage.

Firewall
To view the current firewall configuration, please click on “Firewall ” on the left hand side of the page. Here
you can see the firewall rules, policy, zones and interfaces. Currently these rules can only be viewed and not
edited.

Routing
To view the current network routing, click on “Routing” in this section. Normally the modem is used as a
default gateway.

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5.3.2 Configuration -> Priority

The user can configure network priority settings and LTE connection settings in this section. In the
Network→Priority section select the Primary network – LTE or VSAT. When one is selected as primary, then
by default the other will be the fallback network. The user can choose to enable / disable the fallback. Click on
“Apply” at the top to save your changes. As a priority, the ACU will try to connect to the primary selected
network. If no internet connection is detected on the primary, and if the fallback is enabled, then the ACU will
connect to the fallback network.

The user can configure the LTE settings in the Network→ LTE section. The ACU has 2 slots for data SIMs
from multiple providers. Select the one which should be activated. In the Dialer Information box, enter your
SIM PIN if it needs to unlocked. Select the Network Provider settings – auto / manual. Some SIMs require
different APN, Username and password settings. Please check if the current settings match yours. To make
any changes to the dialer information, please choose “manual” for the Network Provider and Save the
changes. Once the Dialer Information is complete, the LTE will be connected automatically.

5.3.3 Configuration -> Antenna

In this Section, the user has the option to choose mode of operation, change the antenna’s control and enable
or disable the external Power Supply Unit (PSU) if connected. If the modem supports openamip protocol, then
switch to “Change Mode: openamip” on this page. The user can then view the frequency, satellite position,
polarity and other parameters selected by the modem.

If the modem does not support openamip protocol, then the user can switch to “Change Mode : beam”. On
this page, the user can see a list of beams for every configured satellite. To select a new beam, click on one
of the beams shown on this page and the antenna will automatically repoint to this new beam.

The user can also select the antenna’s control on this page. If the antenna is required to automatically track
the satellite, then switch to “Change Control: auto”. If the user requires the antenna to be pointed manually
(with automatic tracking off) then select “Change Control: manual”. Then the user can control the antenna ‘s
elevation, azimuth and skew from the widget “Manual Control”. The minimum possible movement in any
direction is 0.01°. The antenna’s position can be monitored from the “Antenna Parameters” widget.
If an external power supply unit (to power the antenna’s BUC) is connected and configured to the ACU, then it
can be enabled or disabled from the Control External PSU widget. Enable will power on the BUC and
Disable will power off the BUC. If a PSU is not configured for your system, then as a default, the control will
stay on Disable.

5.3.4 Configuration -> Satellite

The user can view and configure new satellites in this section.
Each widget on the page represents a satellite and its beams.
The user can edit or delete each entry of this section. To confirm
the changes, please click on the check “✔” button and to roll-
back click on cancel “✖” button.

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You can also add new Satellites in this section.

Click on the

button on your screen, then enter the satellite name, the

position and tilt if any. To save your entry, click on the check
“✔” button and to undo your changes click on cancel “✖”
button.

*Note- If the satellite is in the West orbit, you must enter a

negative number in the Position field. eg. 22West will be -22.

To add new beams for a satellite, click on “Beam+” button and

enter the beam ID, receive polarity, receive RF frequency and
symbol rate in ksym/s. The beam ID can be any number
between 1 to 9999. To save your entry, click on the check “✔”
button and to undo your changes click on “✖” button.

5.3.5 Configuration -> Versions

Update Section
This section is used for updating the antenna firmware or updating the ACU Software version. The user can
see an overview of the ACU software and hardware version, and the antenna information. To update the
antenna’s firmware or the ACU software, please contact the EPAK IT team.

Import/Export Section
In this section, the user can choose to “Export” or “Save” the existing Network configuration, the configured
satellites or beams. The “Export” button will download the choosen configuration into the user’s PC, and the
“Save” button will create a backup on the ACU.

All the current backups are listed under the Restore window. The user can choose to restore them by clicking
on the desired backup file and then confirm the restoration. The user can also delete the back-up file by
clicking on the corrosponding delete button. Under the “Import” window, the user can also import a
downloaded configuation file.

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5.4 Account Details
To see details about your account, click on the user-icon on the top-right side of your screen. You will be
redirected to your account details. Here you can view your username, shortname and status. You can also
view you recent login history on this page. If you are the “admin” user, you can view the login history for other
users as well.

User Management
The user management page is accessible by clicking on the user button on the left side of the screen. In this
section you can view the current login-name, short-name, other account creation details. Here you can also
change password and short-name. The admin user can add, delete, enable/disable a new user.

User Permissions
The permissions page is limited to use by the admin user. It is accessible by clicking the permissions button
on the left side of the screen. The admin user can set the page permissions for each page for every user in
this section. To save the changes, click on the “Apply” button at the top of this page.

5.5 Service Activation

Once the antenna has locked on to the correct satellite, the antenna transmit path needs to be calibrated on
first use. This has to be done in coordination with your service provider. So, to continue with this process,
please contact us or your service provider directly, so that they can perform P1db compression test and
activate your internet services.

5.6 Maintenance
The EPAK VSAT system is easy to maintain. The following instructions are sufficient to sustain an optimal
performance of the antenna unit:
• Clean the radome once a month using fresh water and a mild detergent to remove dirt and salt deposits.
• Do not operate the antenna without the radome.
• Do not clean the radome with a high-pressure washer or high pressured water from a hose.
• Check cable connections to be tight and free of corrosion. Clean the cables regularly.

The radome has a protective layer of UV-stabilized and maritime climate-proof coating. Do not apply any
wax, preservative, solvent, chemicals or adhesive labels. Do not use alcohol or dilution or similar products to
clean the radome. In case any solvent comes in contact with the radome by accident, rinse the area

Doc ID 0304 08.04.22 Page 27/34

immediately with water and, if necessary, with a mild detergent. A guarantee for UV and colour stability as
well as fracture strength can only be given within the warranty of the supplier / dealer.

5.7 Individual dome painting

Customers may wish to paint the domes in order to match the vessel colour. The paint and primer must be
free of any metallic components (like zinc). Any painting may impact the RF performance. The thickness of
the paint affects the attenuation of the signal. The thinner the paint is applied the better. Ideally the dome
should not be painted at all.

6 Hardware configuration
The EPAK antenna can be paired with various types of hardware to accommodate your requirements for
internet speed and connectivity. Please check this section for more information on the types of BUCs and
LNBs used.

6.1 BUCs
Our systems use BUCs with LOF 12.8 GHz (Ku
band) which is PLL stabilized and externally
referenced.

Optionally available for configuration are 8W,

16W, 25W and 40W (only for Dsi13).

6.2 LNBs
EPAK systems are compatible with all universal LNB with LOF at 9.75 / 10.6 GHz.

6.3 Supported Modem Types

EPAK's VSAT systems provides compatibility with various modems including iDirect Evolution X3/X5/X7,
iDirect Velocity X7, Spacebridge, Hughes HX200, Comtech CDM-570/840, Gilat SkyEdge II C4, Paradise
PD25L , Paradise Datacom Q-Flex, UHP 1000 / UHP 2000 while supporting communication through
protocols like OpenAMIP, SNMP or via telnet, WebGUI or serial console. EPAK continuously develops new
drivers according to customers needs.

6.4 NMEA Connector

Optionally the user can connect the vessel’s gyro compass to the NMEA port at the back-panel of the ACU.
Please check for correct polarity. Kindly refer to Figure 5.2 “ACU rear view” in this document for more details.
The user can also select the NMEA protocol (RS232 or RS444/RS485) depending on what is available.

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7 Datasheets
Please find the technical specifications of the ACU, antenna and BUCs in this section.

7.1 ACU
Antenna Control Unit
Dimensions 48 cm x 4.45 cm x 47.8 cm(18.9" x 1.75" x 18.82") (19" Rack 1HU size)
Weight 5.1kg (11.24lbs)
Gyro Interface NMEA0183 / NMEA 2000 (via RS422 or RS485 or RS232) / SIMRAD
RGC11
Input voltage, frequency 90 ~ 264V AC, 47~63Hz
External I/O RS232, RS422, Ethernet, USB, GPIO
Local user Interface OLED display, directional pad, 2 push keys
Modem interface Ethernet port + serial (optional)
Modem Protocols openAMIP / SNMP / Telnet / open BMIP
Remote access TCP / IP
Operating temperature -20°C to 55°C
Storage temperature -40°C to 85°C
Humidity According to IEC 60945
IP class IP 30
Compass safe distance 0.5m according to IEC 60945
Position acquisition supplied by ODU
Supported modems idirect series, Hughes HX200, ViaSat SBT-M, Comtech CDM-250/840,
Gilat Skyedge II C4, Paradise PD25L, Datacom Q-Flex, Spacebridge,
Romantis / Eastar UHP 1000 / UHP 2000, others on request

Cables & connectors

ACU to Antenna 2x Double shielded coax cable (ECOFLEX 10) with N-plugs
ACU to Modem 2x Double shielded coax cable (RG6) with F and TNC-plugs
1x Ethernet patch with RJ45 plugs
ACU to Network Ethernet patch with RJ45 plugs

7.2 Antenna

DSi6 Ku Pro
DSi9 Ku Pro
DSi9 Ka Pro
DSi13 Ku Pro

Please refer to datasheets, available on our website. https://www.epak.de/en/support/download-area

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8 Glossary

ACU Antenna Control Unit. Used to control the antenna and provide the vessel with internet
access.
Azimuth The horizontal angle a parabolic antenna must be rotated to, in order to point to a
specific satellite in the orbit. It is defined with respect due to north for convenience.
BUC A Block Up Converter is used in the transmission (uplink) of satellite signals. It
converts a band of frequencies from a lower frequency to a higher one. Modern
BUCs convert from L band to Ku or Ka band (depending on the type).
Elevation The vertical angle that a parabolic antenna has to set to point to a specific satellite in
the orbit. Elevation is zero when the antenna points to the horizon.
GPS Global Positioning System
IDU Indoor Unit
Ka-Band The Ka-band covers the frequencies of 29.5–30 GHz, i.e. wavelengths from slightly
over one centimetre down to 0.75 centimetres. The Ka-band is part of the K-band of
the microwave band of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Ku-Band The frequency range from 10.7 to 18GHz.
LNB A Low Noise Block is used for reception (downlink) of satellite signals. It down-
converts a block of high range frequencies to lower range. So LNBs convert Ka or Ku
Band frequencies to L Band.
NMEA Communication standard for marine instruments
ODU Outdoor Unit (Antenna)
openAMIP Open Antenna-Modem Interface Protocol
Skew Skew is the tilt of the LNB in order to align the planes of polarization of antenna & the
satellite.
UPS Uninterrupted Power Supply. Online type is recommended for EPAK systems.
SNR The ratio of signal power to noise power, expressed in dB. The higher the SNR, better
the signal quality.
VSAT Very Small Aperture Terminal. It is a two-way satellite ground station or a stabilized
maritime VSAT antenna with a dish antenna that is smaller than 3 meters.

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Drilling Pattern DSi6

Figure 8.1 Drilling Pattern 60cm VSAT

Doc ID 0304 08.04.22 Page 31/34

Drilling Pattern DSi9

Figure 8.2 Drilling Pattern 90cm VSAT

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Drilling Pattern DSi13

Figure 8.3: Drilling Pattern 130cm VSAT

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Picture Index
Figure 1: Antenna label with serial number....................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2.1: Microwave radiation safety distance............................................................................................... 5
Figure 4.1: Finding the best location for the antenna........................................................................................ 9
Figure 4.2: Minimum safe distance from radar.................................................................................................. 9
Figure 4.3: Dimensions 60 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)....................................................................11
Figure 4.4: Dimensions 90 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)....................................................................11
Figure 4.5: Dimensions 130 cm antenna dome (front and bottom)..................................................................11
Figure 4.6: Position of transport locks............................................................................................................. 12
Figure 4.7: Transportation lock open-closed................................................................................................... 13
Figure 4.8: ACU Front view............................................................................................................................. 13
Figure 4.9: ACU top view................................................................................................................................. 14
Figure 4.10 Cable connection with drip loop................................................................................................... 15
Figure 4.11: Wiring scheme VSAT Ku-Band Systems.....................................................................................17
Figure 5.1: ACU Front view............................................................................................................................. 16
Figure 5.2: ACU rear view............................................................................................................................... 17
Figure 5.3: ACU rear view Access to Webinterface......................................................................................... 18
Figure 8.1 Drilling Pattern 60cm VSAT............................................................................................................ 30
Figure 8.2 Drilling Pattern 90cm VSAT............................................................................................................ 32
Figure 8.3: Drilling Pattern 130cm VSAT......................................................................................................... 33

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