Installation Checklist

02/27/04

 

 

This checklist is provided for use by professional installers to aid them in providing complete service.  It also may be useful to SailMail members, to help in their discussions with their installer to be sure that their installation is complete.  For technical details on the specific steps mentioned below see the SailMail Primer.

 

A Professional Installation Generally Includes:

  1. Interface the radio to the Pactor-modem in the technically "best" fashion.   If there is an "accessory" jack available on the radio that includes the necessary signals, it should ALWAYS be used.  The use of the "Mic" jack should be avoided.  A Pactor-modem to SSB cable should be provided that has shields connected on both ends and that has ferrites installed on both ends.
  2. If the radio is capable of remote control (Icom M710, Icom M700pro, Icom M802, Icom M710RT, SGC SG-2000, SEA-235), provide the remote control cable.  If necessary for the PTC-IIe or PTC-IIex, provide and install a USB-serial adapter.  If necessary for the Icom M700pro, provide the CI-V or Icom OPC-478 level shifter for the pin jack.  See details in the Application Notes.
  3. Update the firmware in the SCS PTC modem to the latest version.  Upgrade the modem to include an electronic serial number (ESN) if necessary (old PTC-II and old PTC-IIe modems only).
  4. Install ferrites at both ends of all cables including the RS232 cable between the Pactor-modem and the PC, the remote control wire to the radio, the audio/PTT cable between the Pactor-modem and the radio, and the tuner control wire.  Install a Line Isolator (next to the tuner) in the coax from radio to tuner (for details see the SailMail Primer).
  5. Check and if necessary improve the ground system and the ground connection to the tuner.  (Do not compromise on this item.)
  6. Check and if necessary improve the routing of the antenna wire from the tuner to the backstay.  Make sure that the antenna wire has stand-offs supporting it at least 2 inches from any grounded wires or stanchions.
  7. Adjust the audio modulation levels on the modem using a directional power meter.   See the application note in the SailMail Primer on level setting for details.
  8. Evaluate the system for RF self-modulation problems.
  9. Evaluate the boat's other equipment (inverters, motors etc) for interference with the SSB.  Either install filters or inform the owner of what gear needs to be shut off before using SailMail (probably inverters).
  10. If the radio can not be remote controlled, then program the radio with the SailMail frequencies, including the appropriate mode.
  11. Provide a printed copy of the latest SailMail Primer , T&C's, and the SailMail FCC licenses.
  12. Provide a backup copy of the AirMail download from the SailMail website download page, on floppy disks.
  13. Test the system and demonstrate the use of the system to the customer.