EasyManua.ls Logo

FlexRadio FLEX-6000 Signature Series User Manual

FlexRadio FLEX-6000 Signature Series
191 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Previous Page IconTo Previous Page
To Previous Page IconTo Previous Page
Page #150 background image
FLEX-6000 Signature Series Maestro User Guide
Page 142
Copyright 2019 FlexRadio Systems. All Rights Reserved.
31 SLICE RECEIVER
31.1 DEFINITION
A Slice Receiver is a software resource which represents an independent, full performance, receiver.
Maestro can operate a maximum of two Slices at one time, with fully independent controls. Each
Slice is designated by a letter indicator which increments with each additional Slice.
31.2 CARRIER FREQUENCY
A Slice consists of a center Carrier Frequency displayed by a solid yellow or red vertical bar.
A yellow bar indicates the Slice is “Active”, suggesting that this is the Slice that you are currently
manipulating. The Active Slice will have the focus of radio features that are applied to Slice Receivers.
31.3 RECEIVE FILTER
Surrounding the Carrier Frequency bar is a blue Receive Filter bar which
represents the filtered receive audio. The portion of spectrum that is highlighted by the Receive Filter
bar will be output as audio.
The position of the Receive Filter relative to the Carrier Frequency will correspond to the selected
mode. A Receive Filter to the right of the Carrier indicates an Upper Sideband mode. A Receive Filter
to the left indicates a Lower Sideband mode. A Receive Filter that spans both the left and right of
the Carrier will indicate a double sideband mode.
The Receive Filter width can be adjusted manually by use of the associated bandwidth front panel
control. The lower frequency limit and higher frequency limit can be adjusted in a number of ways.

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the FlexRadio FLEX-6000 Signature Series and is the answer not in the manual?

FlexRadio FLEX-6000 Signature Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
ModelFLEX-6000 Signature Series
CategoryControl Unit
TypeSoftware Defined Radio (SDR)
ADC Resolution16-bit
DAC Resolution16-bit
Transmitter Power100W PEP
ConnectivityEthernet, USB
DisplayNone (Requires external computer)
Operating System CompatibilityWindows
Sample Rate122.88 MHz

Summary

How to Request Technical Support and Assistance

Key Contacts

Getting to Know Your Maestro

Setting Up Your Maestro

Power

Maestro requires a supply of 10 to 15 volt DC external power.

Network Connection

Maestro requires a network connection via wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

Input Device

A microphone or key is required to operate the transmitter.

Making the Back-Panel Connections

Details connections for various ports on the Maestro back panel.

Starting/Stopping the Maestro

Procedure for starting and stopping the Maestro unit.

Wi-Fi Network Setup

Guides through scanning and connecting to available Wi-Fi networks.

Network Status

Information on network connection status indicators.

Connecting to a Radio

How to Select Maestro and Radio Software

Selecting a SmartSDR Version and Installing It

Steps to download and install the desired SmartSDR software version.

Licensing SmartSDR Version 2

Information on licensing requirements for SmartSDR Version 2.

SmartLink

SmartLink Overview

Explains SmartLink goals: simplicity, security, performance, and expandability.

SmartLink Setup

Steps to set up SmartLink, including account creation and radio registration.

Create a SmartLink Account

How to create an online user account for SmartLink credentials.

Register the Radio in SmartLink

Process for registering the radio with the SmartLink account.

Test the Radio in SmartLink

How to test the SmartLink configuration for successful connection.

Using SmartLink

Instructions for operating the radio remotely using SmartLink.

Maestro Overview

Theory of Operation

Explains wide-band sampling and its difference from traditional radios.

Key System Components

Details the primary hardware components of the FLEX-6000 system.

Spectral Capture Unit (SCU)

Describes the SCU's role in capturing wide-band RF spectrum data.

Slice Receiver

Explains how Slice Receivers process SCU data into manageable signals.

Panadapter

Visualizes RF spectrum data as a spectrum analyzer display.

Waterfall

Provides a time-based visual representation of RF spectrum data.

Panafall

Combines Panadapter and Waterfall for simultaneous current and historical views.

How to Operate a Slice Receiver

How to Create and Delete a Slice Receiver

Explains how to activate and manage Slice Receivers A and B.

How to Tune a Slice Receiver

Details methods for tuning frequency using knobs, drag, or direct entry.

Making a Slice Receiver Active

How to select which Slice Receiver is currently active.

How to Change the Demodulation Mode

Explains how to select different modes like USB, LSB, CW, etc.

How to Adjust the Speaker and Headphone Volume of a Slice Receiver

Controls for AF/AGCT/SQL and solo channel operation.

How to Change the RX Filter of a Slice Receiver

Adjusting receive filter bandwidth and modes for optimal reception.

Recording and Playback of Slice Receiver Audio

Features for recording and playing back audio from Slice Receivers.

How to Operate the Panadapter / Waterfall

How to Create / Delete a Panadapter / Waterfall

Adding and removing Panadapters for spectrum visualization.

How to Create / Delete a Slice Receiver in the Second Panadapter

Adding Slice Receivers to a second Panadapter.

How to Change the Panadapter Frequency (Tune)

Adjusting the displayed frequency range of the Panadapter.

How to Zoom a Panadapter

Methods for adjusting the zoom level of the Panadapter display.

How to Change the Signal Magnitude Scale of a Panadapter

Adjusting the maximum and minimum amplitude displayed in the Panadapter.

Adjusting the Panadapter and Waterfall Controls

Detailed use of display controls for Panadapter and Waterfall.

Noise Mitigation

How to Configure Noise Mitigation

AGC Threshold

Automatic Gain Control adjustment for optimal performance in noisy environments.

DSP Noise Mitigation Features

Overview of available noise mitigation features in the Slice Receiver Menu.

Wideband Noise Blanker (WNB)

Combats fast rise time pulse-type noise using advanced algorithms.

Slice Specific Noise Blanker (NB)

Noise blanking applied on an individual Slice Receiver basis.

Noise Reduction (NR)

Reduces random white noise for clearer signal reception.

How to Use Tracking Notch Filters

Tracking Notch Filter Theory

Explains the concept and advantage of tracking notch filters over traditional ones.

Creating and Adjusting a Tracking Notch Filter

Step-by-step instructions for creating and adjusting a TNF.

Turning All Tracking Notch Filters On or Off

How to globally enable or disable all tracking notch filters.

Automatic Notch Filter (ANF)

Automatically applies notch filters to remove constant tones.

How to Use Profiles

MIC Profiles

MIC profiles manage microphone and audio source settings.

Transmit Profiles

Transmit profiles manage transmitter power and interlock settings.

Global Profiles

Global profiles manage Panadapter, Slice layout, and overall settings.

Saving and Deleting Profiles

Procedures for saving and deleting Global, Transmit, and MIC profiles.

Loading Profiles

How to load saved profiles from the control panel.

Default Profiles

Overview of included default profiles for basic operation.

Comparing Profiles and Persistence

Differentiates profiles from persistence and explains their interaction.

How to Operate Maestro Audio

Playing Slice Audio Using the Default Playback Device

Enables streaming of Slice audio to Maestro's playback devices.

Transmitting Using a Connected Recording Device

Using connected microphones or line inputs for transmission.

Configuring the Audio Output Devices

Options for audio output via speaker, headphones, or line level.

PTT Override When Operating via Maestro

How hardware PTT inputs override Maestro PTT in non-DIGx modes.

Operating CW When Operating via Maestro

Using connected keys/paddles for CW operation via Maestro.

Monitoring Remote Audio and Network Performance

Monitoring network connection quality for remote operation.

Network Health Indicator

Visual indicator of network connection performance.

Network Diagnostics

Detailed network diagnostic data for troubleshooting connection issues.

How to Operate CW Mode

How to Operate CW in Split Mode

Setting up and using split mode for DXpeditions and contesting.

CW Transmitting

Instructions for transmitting in CW mode using the built-in keyer.

Using the Built-in Keyer

Configuration and use of the built-in iambic keyer.

How to Operate QRQ (High Speed) CW With QSK

Achieving full QSK operation for high-speed CW.

Using CW With a Contest Logger

Considerations for using Maestro with CW contest logging software.

How to Operate Single Sideband Mode (SSB)

How to Select the SSB RX Filter Bandwidth

Selecting appropriate receive filter bandwidths for SSB signals.

Selecting RX Filter Favorites

Setting up and using favorite filter bandwidth presets.

How to Operate SSB in Split Mode

Setting up and using split mode for SSB operations.

How to Configure the Audio Controls for Phone Modes

Configuring microphone, speech processor, and EQ for phone modes.

Setting the Transmit Filter Bandwidth

Adjusting transmit filter bandwidth for sideband transmissions.

Operating the Speech Processor

Using the speech processor for enhanced talk power.

How to Configure the Equalizer (EQ)

Adjusting transmit and receive equalization for audio quality.

How to Configure VOX

Setting up Voice Operated Transmit (VOX) for hands-free operation.

Monitor Mode Operation

Using monitor mode to listen to processed audio.

How to Configure the Downward Expander (DEXP)

Using the downward expander to reduce background noise.

DAX TX Channel and Microphone Interaction

Interaction between DAX TX channel, microphone, and VOX.

Monitoring Your Transmitted Audio

Using Quick Record/Playback to monitor and optimize transmitted audio.

Recommended Audio Adjustment Steps for Phone Modes

Recommended steps for adjusting microphone audio for phone modes.

How to Operate AM and SAM Modes

How to Operate FM Mode

Operating FM Repeaters

Using FM repeaters with CTCSS tones and offset settings.

Memory Channels

Storing and recalling radio settings using memory channels.

How to Operate Diversity Reception (FLEX-6600(M) and 6700 Only)

How to Configure Antennas

Getting Started

Initial setup for Panadapter and Slice Receiver with default antenna.

Selecting the Transmit Antenna for a Slice Receiver

Selecting the appropriate transmit antenna for each Slice Receiver.

Antenna Options for PIN Diode QSK Operation

Antenna configurations for full QSK operation.

Using a Common Receive Antenna with Separate Transmit Antennas

Using one receive antenna with multiple transmit antennas.

Using Two Transceive Antennas on the FLEX-6700

Configuring two transceive antennas on the FLEX-6700 model.

Using a Dedicated Receive Antenna

Utilizing a dedicated antenna solely for receiving.

Receive-Only Antenna Operation

Operating with antennas designated only for receiving.

Antenna Selection for Transverter Operation

Selecting antennas for transverter band operation.

Using the Receiver RF Gain/Preamplifiers

Adjusting receiver RF gain and preamplifier settings.

Setting the RF Gain/Preamplifiers

Detailed steps for setting RF gain and preamplifier levels.

Antenna Configuration Basic Terms and Rules

Fundamental terms and rules for antenna configuration.

Displaying Spots in SmartSDR for Maestro

How to Configure Transverters

Using a Transverter

Steps for tuning to and using a transverter band.

Multiple Copies of a Band

Handling multiple signal frequency copies, especially with transverters.

Transverter Power Settings

Setting maximum power levels for transverter operation.

Transmitting on a Transverter

Procedures for transmitting via a transverter.

Weak Signal Considerations

Optimizing reception for weak signals during transverter operation.

Using the FlexRadio Power Genius XL Amplifier

How to Connect an External Amplifier

USB Cables

USB Cables Overview

Understanding USB cable features and interfaces for devices.

Cable Management

Managing and configuring USB cables within the Maestro.

CAT Cables

Configuration for serial data communication cables (CAT).

BIT Cables

Configuring BIT cables for mapping tuned frequencies to signals.

BCD Cables

Configuring BCD cables for band mapping via binary coded decimal output.

LDPA Cables

Support for LDPA cables for low drive power amplifiers.

How to Operate in Digital Modes

PTT Override When Operating Digital Modes

How hardware PTT overrides DAX input in non-DIGx modes.

RTTY Mode

Optimizing tuning and reporting for RTTY mode via CAT.

Digi Mode Audio Offsets

Setting audio offsets for DIGU or DIGL modes for signal tuning.

How to Operate in Full Duplex (FDX) Mode

FDX Requirements

Necessary requirements for enabling and using FDX mode.

FDX Applications

Initial applications of FDX mode, including SO2R and satellite ops.

FLEX-6600(M) and FLEX-6700 SO2R Operation

SO2R operation capabilities on FLEX-6600(M) and FLEX-6700 models.

FLEX-6300 and FLEX-6500 Full Duplex

Full duplex capabilities on FLEX-6300 and FLEX-6500 models.

SCU Overload Fundamentals

Understanding and avoiding SCU overload conditions for proper operation.

Preselection Band Filter Block

Role of preselection band filters in receiver performance.

Preamplifier / Attenuator Block

How the preamplifier/attenuator block affects signal levels and overload.

High-Performance Analog to Digital Converter Block (ADC)

Functionality and overload characteristics of the ADC block.

Full Duplex Antenna Isolation Requirements

Importance of antenna isolation to prevent receiver overload in FDX.

Main Menu

Introduction

Overview of the Main Menu button and its tabs.

Maestro Tab

Controls for display, LED backlight, serial number, and software version.

Radio Tab

Basic radio information, hardware version, options, and model details.

Function F1-F6 Tab

Assigning functions to the six front panel function buttons.

Network Tab

Information on Maestro's network connection and diagnostics.

Audio Tab

Controls for audio output options, including volume and pan.

Transmit Tab

Adjustments for transmitter parameters like power and timings.

Phone/CW Tab

Controls for microphone and CW key interfaces.

XVTR Tab

Setting up transverter bands for the FLEX-6000.

Profiles Tab

Loading, saving, and deleting global, transmit, and microphone profiles.

Memory Tab

Storing and recalling radio configuration information.

Spots Tab

Managing and displaying cluster spots in SmartSDR.

USB Cables Tab

Managing and configuring USB cables for external device control.

GPS Tab

Controls for managing the GPS Disciplined Oscillator.

Slice Receiver

Definition

A Slice Receiver is a software resource for independent receiver operation.

Carrier Frequency

Displays the center frequency for a Slice Receiver.

Receive Filter

Represents the filtered audio output, highlighting the signal portion.

Dynamic Filter Depth

Adjusts filter tap depth to balance latency and filtering performance.

Front Panel Display

Introduction

Maestro displays Panadapters and Slice Receivers on its touch screen.

Display Upper Bar

Features Slice Receiver Flags, Main Menu, RF power, and network indicators.

Slice Receiver Flags

Contains controls and annunciators for Slice Receiver operation.

Slice Receiver Menu

Accesses controls for receiver mode, band, frequency, and filters.

Power and Network Indicators

Shows network connection quality and power source status.

Display Panadapters

How Panadapters are displayed and managed on the Maestro.

Panadapter Definition

Visual spectrum display of radio frequencies (RF).

Waterfall Definition

Historical representation of RF data over time.

Waterfall Time Machine

Mode to view recent history of the Waterfall display.

Panadapter Display Menu

Controls for adjusting Panadapter display parameters like FPS and AVG.

Horizontal Zoom

Methods for adjusting the zoom level of the Panadapter display.

Vertical Zoom

Adjusting the maximum and minimum amplitude displayed.

Panning Method

Adjusting the frequency range viewed by panning the display.

Add / Remove the Second Panadapter

Adding or removing a second Panadapter on the display.

Auxiliary Meters

Displaying auxiliary meters like SWR, power output, and temperature.

Front Panel Knobs and Buttons

Slice Receiver Activation Buttons

Buttons for activating and deactivating Slice Receivers.

Slice Receiver Tuning Knobs and Buttons

Knobs and buttons for tuning Slice Receivers and adjusting step size.

Slice Receiver Audio Knobs

Knobs for managing audio levels and solo channel operation.

Slice Receiver Bandwidth Knobs

Knobs for adjusting receive filter bandwidths and modes.

Transmitter Knobs and Buttons

Knobs and buttons for controlling transmitter functions.

TX Menu

Accessing transmitter settings like microphone selection and audio controls.

Audio Modes Transmitter Menu

Microphone selections, audio processor, and bandwidth controls.

CW Mode Transmitter Control Panel

Controls specific to CW mode transmitter settings.

Function Buttons

Mapping radio operations to front panel function buttons.

Restoring to Factory Defaults

Error and Status Messages

Thermal Over Temperature

Fatal error message when FPGA exceeds operational temperature limits.

Reverse RF Power Detected

Indicates detection of RF power entering the receiver, unkeying the transmitter.

Interlock Is Preventing Transmission

Message indicating an interlock condition preventing transmission.

Transmit Slice Has Not Been Selected

Requires a transmit Slice to be selected before transmitting.

Max Power Set Too Low For ATU

Warning that Max Power setting is too low for ATU operation.

Troubleshooting Tips

FLEX-6000 Does Not Show Up in the Radio Chooser

Addresses issues related to network connectivity and physical layer problems.

Physical Layer Issues

Checking physical Ethernet connections and link state LEDs.

Firewalls Preventing Network Access from the FLEX-6000

Configuring firewalls to allow network access to Maestro.

MAC Address Filtering

Ensuring FLEX-6000 is permitted via MAC address filtering.

Maestro Becomes Unresponsive

Steps to resolve Maestro unresponsiveness and freezing issues.

Radio Will Not Boot, or SmartSDR-Win Will Not Completely Load

Resolving issues where the radio or software fails to load.

FLEX-6000 Not Performing Well After an Upgrade to New Firmware

Troubleshooting performance issues after a software or firmware upgrade.

RF Spectrum Not Displayed Properly After Selecting a FLEX-6000 or Audio Stuttering

Diagnosing issues with spectrum display or audio stuttering.

Amber Front Panel Light Stuck On

Resolving amber front panel light issues, potentially related to GPS.

Maestro Starts Up in Portrait Mode

Correcting Maestro display orientation issues.

I Purchased a License, But It Doesn’t Show Up in the Radio.

Troubleshooting license not appearing in the radio after purchase.

SmartLink Troubleshooting

Resolving issues related to SmartLink connectivity and radio detection.

Radio not shown in the Select Radio screen

Checking radio power, internet, and Maestro connection for SmartLink.

My radio shows up in the Select Radio screen, but when I try to connect, it doesn’t work.

Diagnosing connection failures after the radio is detected in SmartLink.

Running the Network Settings Test, I do not get a green response.

Interpreting and resolving network test results for SmartLink.

My router doesn’t support UPnP. How can I setup my radio to reliably connect to remote clients?

Setting up manual port forwarding for reliable remote client connections.

When I use public Wi-Fi, sometimes my Panadapter hangs or my audio has gaps in it. How do I fix this?

Addressing performance issues on public Wi-Fi networks with SmartLink.

Legal Notice

Copyright Information

User Guide Copyright

Copyright notice for the user guide document.

Software Copyrights

Copyright notices pertaining to FlexRadio software.

Software Licence Agreements

FlexRadio Software License

End User License Agreement for SmartSDR for Windows.

GPL Information

Information regarding the GNU General Public License (GPL).

Related product manuals