PTS E-Kit
™
Concept of Operations & Best Practices
The PTS Expeditionary Kit (E-Kit
™
) for Tactical Radios is a self-contained ancillary kit that supports
tactical communications in a light-weight, easily usable package. The E-Kit
™
contains the following: 1.
Power Supply Docking Station (PSDS) that mounts the radios and supplies regulated power and audio
outputs; 2. Power Source that can provide two amplified radios power for multiple days and can be
recharged via AC, DC or solar inputs; and 3. lightweight antenna systems tuned for High Frequency (HF)
communications.
The E-Kit
™
components are connected per instructions in this user guide and further information
may be gained by review of the provided manuals for each component contained within the kit. The E-
Kit
™
components do not change the basic functions of the tactical radio systems and will not interfere
with tactical communications with respect to COMSEC, range or functionality. The PTS E-Kit
™
is meant
to augment the currently fielded tactical radio mounts, power sources and antenna systems. The E-Kit
™
may be combined with currently fielded ancillaries as needed by the end users' requirements.
The E-Kit
™
components are designed for operation in austere environments. The power source
and antenna systems are waterproof but the PSDS, due to its design, must be protected against direct
water intrusion or immersion. The PSDS and antenna systems are designed for operations at the halt
and not designed for usage in vehicle systems or to replace installed vehicle installation kits. Standard
protections against RF and other electrical hazards should be employed per regulatory
guidance. Antenna systems should be employed using local guidance and regulations with regard to
personnel safety.
The E-Kit
™
is designed to be employed by a minimum of 2 personnel. Using less personnel than
recommended may cause system damage and/or injury to personnel. E-Kit
™
transportation cases may
weigh in excess of 100lbs and are considered to be a “two man” lift.
The E-Kit
™
is employed by first determining the best footprint for the system based on the
maximum cable lengths between the PSDS, power source and antenna system. The included 100’
LMR400 feedline will yield approximately 95’ of separation, it is recommended to separate antenna
systems to reduce the likelihood of interference. The E-Kit
™
includes specified feedline for the antenna
system, usage of other cable may reduce performance and/or cause damage to the antenna. If solar
charging is the primary method of resupplying power, additional planning will be required based on the
length of the solar charging cables and extensions.
The E-Kit
™
power source is recommended to be fully charged prior to operation. The power
source may be charged via AC or DC power with the batteries installed, or the batteries may be removed
and charged with approved bulk charge systems. Using the two solar panels included in the Deluxe Kit
on a sunny day, the system may be fully charged within 8 hours. The power source will provide 24VDC
power with a minimum of 2 batteries (1 battery per bank) and the batteries may be swapped while the
system is operational. When connected to AC power, the power source will act as a universal power
supply (UPS) should external AC power be lost. Additional charging and output options are available,
please see manual for full capabilities and options.
Failure to follow all instructions and guidance provided in E-Kit
™
system manuals may result in
system failure and/or personnel injury. It is highly recommended for all personnel to review all
instructions and warnings when employing E-Kit
™
systems and components prior to operations.
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