NTS-pico3 QuickStart

This page contains instructions on how to get started with NTS-pico3 time server and how to configure it.

Package contents

Complete package contains:

• NTS-pico3 time server
• Power supply 12VDC/230VAC
• Outdoor active GNSS antenna w/ 30m coax H-155 and accessories

Options (not included in standard set):

• Ethernet cable 1m RJ45/RJ45 (pcs 1)
  
• RS232 cable 1m DB-9/RJ45 (pcs 1)

Note: Set does not include antenna mast, but antenna can be mounted directly using attached accessories: claps, bracket, nuts etc. - they are included.

Presentation

Front

Back

Setting up the time server

Antenna mounting

Installing a basic system will require the following (a) mounting of the antenna (b) optionally mounting 1 or 2 lightning arrestors (not included to product set). The antenna supplied is of the active type, and is suitable for almost all applications. It is supplied with a pre-attached, 30-meter H-155 coax cable, terminated with a male SMA connector. Before commencing installation, check that all the items detailed in the contents list have been supplied. The antenna is supplied with mounting clamps for attachment to a mounting pole, included too. Mast antenna suspension (H=0.5m) is not included but it is available as separate products from Elproma. Following figure shows an example of how mounting antenna might be achieved.

Note: The most important consideration in selecting a position for the antenna is the presence of objects which obscure the sky or horizon. Where possible, there should be no obstruction to a full view of the sky.

Overhead wires and other very narrow obstructions may be considered as invisible to the signals, provided that they are a few meters away. Large flat surfaces can decrease performance of the receiver. Be especially wary about mounting the antenna directly onto the fascia of a flat roof. To overcome this situation, elevate the pole about 1 meter above the flat surface. A satellite prediction mobile phone program may usefully be employed to check a potential installation, and also to identify directions in which obstructions may be a particular source of problems.

Note: When the NTS-pico3 is operational, the GNSS antenna assembly may be disconnected for short periods (e.g. maintenance or repair) without interruption to the unit synchronization LAN output.

Additional lightning protection considerations

As the antenna is roof mounted (to have a clear view of the sky) it is likely to be exposed to lightning strikes.

Protection against this is afforded by ensuring adequate grounding of the mountings as described below. There is no way to provide 100% protection for electronic equipment from direct strike damage. It is possible however, to reduce the likelihood of damage from near strike induced fields by ensuring the installation obeys some fundamental rules.

A proprietary lightning arrestor should be installed, of a type which does not reduce GNSS signal transfer. Install the lightning arrestor near to the antenna (e.g. on the mounting pole), ensuring all connections maintain electrical and environmental protection.

After taking the precautions described previously in the antenna installation, it should be understood that a destructive residual current may still be present in the cable coming down from the antenna to the NTS-pico3 unit.

A second lightning arrestor should be installed near to the NTS-pico3 to further dissipate any remaining lightning energy. At the earth end please use multiple connection points if at all possible.

All connections should incorporate as large an area of contact as possible, which is made more probable using large bolts, and substantial washers. Where there is no access to the metal framework of the building, it is imperative to erect a suitable lightning conductor. Failure to do so is almost certain to result in destruction of NTS-pico3 and connected into it equipment in the event of the antenna receiving a near lightning strike.

Powering up

1. Connect GNSS antenna to SMA connector in NTS-pico3
2. Connect Ethernet LAN cable to RJ45 connector
WARNING: Do not connect the PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) connection to the LAN port. Otherwise it may damage the device!
3. Plug-in DC power supply to power input and turn power ON. Please check the power supply connector pinout in NTS-pico3_Connectors.