T Y P I C A L O P E R A T I O N S
Series 8000™ O&M Manual
69
Figure 4-20
Settings for
predictive tracking
(2 of 2)
4.7.2
Steptrack
The steptrack algorithm provides robust performance and a flexible
parameter set. Steptrack cycles may be initiated periodically, as defined
by the Steptrack Cycle Time parameter, which has a range of 00:00:00
up to 23:59:59. When set to zero, a steptrack cycle will be initiated
immediately following the previous cycle, effectively causing a contin-
uous steptrack or peaking of the signal level.
Steptrack cycles may also be initiated by a signal-level threshold
—
when the signal drops by a predefined amount, a steptrack cycle is ini-
tiated. Both modes may be used simultaneously to achieve longer cycle
times backing up a threshold-triggered cycle. Steptrack determines in
which axis and direction to take an initial step, based on the major axis
of motion and the direction of motion for the target satellite.
*
Caution
Predictive
tracking is
the preferred mode for
geosynchronous satel-
lites that require peri-
odic re-peaking during
the day.
It reduces the
frequency of steptrack
cycles required to
keep the antenna sat-
isfactorily peaked. See
section 4.7.2.
