Design Mode

The Design and Active Entry mode is where all actual design work is done. The Design mode/menu contains many powerful design optimization tools whereas the Active Entry menu does not have access to these tools. The Active Entry mode is simply used for quick entry of strand and equipment information. Most users prefer to work within the Design menu because of the available tools and flexibility. The Design screen displays the strand information input in the Entry (excluding the map and location numbers) as well as signal levels, amplifiers, taps, and couplers.

The Design screen looks like this:

This gives an example of a small network displayed in the Design mode. The top portion of the screen displays the title bar. The title bar displays the Program Name - Current Mode/Menu - Network Name - Parent Node.

Title bar detail

IN the screen shot provided, Design Assistant - Design - lode- Starting 1.20 == Program Name - Current Mode/Menu - Network Name - Parent Node

Above the toolbar are the menu pull down options. These are covered else where and are static across modes, though some menus are disabled in certain modes.

Toolbar Buttons

📄 New Network

📂 Open Network

💾 Save Network

↰ Jump to Parent

↷ Jump to

➕ Increment

➖ Decrement

📺 Test

Test Power

🔌 Edit Plugins

Escape

EQ Manual | Auto | Auto Ex

EQ Placement: See ___ for options explained

OP OFF | On Fail | ON

Optimization: See ___ for options explained

DEV Total | Fwd | Rtn

Deviation: See ___ for options explained

TSG 1 - 99

Tap Selection_Group: See ___ for options explained

Design Commands Toolbar

The next three lines of the menu display the functions and the key(s) used to activate them.

At the bottom left corner of the screen, names of the spec files currently loaded; just to the right of that is the current branch number and the type of feedermaker this network was created with.

Columns

The remainder of this screen is separated into the following columns:

Node

Displays the node number. Not to be confused with a fiber node, a node (in this context) within the Design Assistant is simply a line or row of information. It is useful for jumping to specific locations in the network.

860

Forward frequency 1: Displays the forward 860 MHz frequency. This column is usually reserved for your highest forward analog frequency and is generally referred to as your Design frequency. 860 in this case is just a label (entered in the Parameters spec file). The Design Assistant is capable of doing design at any frequency. The signal level displayed here is the level after the footage specified on the same line but before the insertion loss of any equipment. Thus, it is the input to any equipment located at this node.

54

Forward Frequency 2: Displays the forward 54 MHz frequency (this column is usually reserved for your lowest forward analog frequency). 54 is just a column label and can be changed in the Parameters spec file.

42

Return Frequency 1: Displays the return 42 MHz frequency (this column is usually reserved for your highest return analog frequency). 42 is just a column label and can be changed in the Parameters spec file. Note that this level is also the level after the footage. It is the level required from this location to make the minimum reverse input into the previous amplifier.

5

Return Frequency 2: Displays the return 5 MHz frequency at this location (this column is usually reserved for your lowest return analog frequency). 5 is just a column label and can be changed in the Parameters spec file.

Frequency Columns

The column values displayed are just text headers. Changing the value does not update the spec files to account for db values at those frequencies. The name in the description Forward Frequency 2 references the field in the Parameters file where this text is input.

ftg

The distance, usually between poles or pedestals.

hc

Number of units to feed from that span location.

cab

Cable ID value from the cable spec file.

lv

Tap port level defined in the parameters spec file.

FTG | HC | CAB | LV

Although these values are usually entered in the Entry mode, you may edit them or add new ones from within the Design and Power mode using 0 ALTER

amp

This is the amplifier column for any amplifier defined in the spec files. In-line equalizers or any of the Q #s are also placed in this column.

Q Values

See Spec Files - Actives - Equalizers for more info on Q values in the active specs.

TSG

Tap Selection Group is a 1-99 value to specify the group to be used for tap selection as defined in the Tap specs.

taps

This column is wide enough to display up to four taps on any one line. This provides a maximum of 32 ports (four 8 port taps) on any one line. If your house count requires more than 32 ports, you must break up the house count and feed the remainder from a line with a zero footage.

cplr[branch] cplr[branch]

Coupler[Branch number]: These 2 columns are for couplers and branch numbers. The number within the brackets [branch] is the number of the branch that begins at that node. A number directly to the left of the [branch] is the coupler ID number. A - indicates that there is a branch originating at this location but a coupler type has not yet been specified.

550

Forward Frequency 3: Displays the forward 550 MHz frequency.

F4, F5, F6

The remaining possible forward frequency columns (not shown), are to the right of the 550 column. The Design Assistant has the capability to design using up to 6 forward frequencies.

R3, R4

The remaining possible return frequencies. The Design Assistant has the capability to design using up to 4 return frequencies.

Alternate Frequency Columns

In order to use the other frequency columns (F3-F6 and R3-R4) you must enable them in the Parameters spec file on the Frequencies tab.

Reading the Design Screen

Reading the Design screen can be tricky for new users, so here is a breakdown of what you are looking at. The numbers in the Node column are the node number (or line/row number) in the current branch. The node number is useful when trying to jump from one location to another.

Signal Levels

The signal levels displayed are the levels after the footage that is on the same line, but before any equipment. Therefore, these signal levels represent the input to the first piece of equipment on that line. You'll notice that if we start at 1.1 and move down to the next node 1.2 the original 46.00 dB level @ 860 MHz doesn't change. This is due to the fact that there is a 0 distance in the footage column, thus no cable loss has been applied. As we move down node by node, the dB level decreases as we incur cable (distance), and equipment insertion loss.

Info

Don't forget that the Design Assistant can account for multiple frequencies. Alternate frequencies are displayed to the right of the 550 MHz column, as show by the white arrow, if those frequencies are active.

Continuing with the above screenshot, at branch.node 1.11, the 18.13 dB is the 860 MHz input to the first amplifier labeled A101 which is after the 171'. At the end of the branch.node 1.21, The line below the last footage displays the signal (in the signal level columns) that continues through the last tap. In this case, it displays 0.00 because the 8 port 11 tap is self terminating. Right below the 8 port 11 tap is the display of the tap port output in the taps and coupler columns, 17.01 dB @ 860 MHz and 7.52 dB @ 54 MHz.

Equipment

Let's look at node 18 in branch 1 (1.18) in our screenshot below. In the equipment columns (amp, taps, cplr[branch] , cplr[branch] ) the Design screen is read from left to right. In our example, line 18 has an 11 (amp), [26] (tap), then a 8 [3] (cplr[branch]), this represents an active ID 11 line extender feeding a 26 value 4-port tap feeding a DC 8 (which creates branch [3]). In this case, the 4-port tap is on the input of the coupler. If the tap needs to be on the output of the coupler, the house count and tap must be placed on a node with a zero footage directly after the coupler. A zero footage can be used anytime multiple pieces of equipment must be placed at the same location.

Node 1.18 - Design mode with Active ➡ 4 port 26 Tap ➡ Direction Coupler 8:

Node 1.18 - Changing the original design to move the tap to the output of the coupler as described.

Taps

The taps column is 4 columns wide to input up to four taps at one node. This accounts for a maximum house count of 32, four 8-port taps on a single node/line. If a house count greater than 32 is desired, then the remainder of the house count should be placed on a zero footage node. The taps will display the tap value (as input in the spec files) within one of four different types of brackets that identify the number of tap ports.

Tap display:

26 represents a two-port 26 tap

26 represents a 4-port 26 tap

26 represents a 6-port (if any)

26 represents a 8-port 26 tap

Couplers

The coupler columns display the coupler ID # as well as the branch number that is created by that coupler. The value of the coupler is outside of the brackets and the branch number is inside of them.

Bracket meanings:

# Normal branch, no backfeed or forwardfeed

The branch number is displayed in brackets [#] if it is considered a normal branch -- that is the branch has information on it and is not a backfeed or forwardfeed.

# No footage is in the branch

The branch number is displayed in parentheses ( ) if there is no footage on that branch. Be aware that this does not mean the branch is empty. It's possible to have equipment in the branch without any span footages.

# Backfeed

The branch number is displayed in curly braces { } if a backfeed.

# Forwardfeed

The branch number is displayed in angle brackets < > if that branch is a forwardfeed.

Signal Direction

Directional couplers and unbalanced 3-way splitters may be entered so that the high loss leg is directed to any of the branches. The normal process for entering couplers is to place the cursor in the coupler column and press 0 Alter and then enter the ID# of the desired coupler, like 8 for a DC 8, followed by enter.

82 In this case, the through leg of the DC is downstream on branch 1, and the tap leg is feeding branch 2. This is the standard configuration when typing in the coupler value without any negative or double negative designations. We'll cover the meaning of the designations, below is a graphical representation of the equipment when input as 8 [2].

8 -2 A negative designation before the branch brackets indicates that the tap or high loss leg is directed downstream and the through leg or low loss leg is passed to the branch. Back to our example, the high loss is being passed downstream on branch 1 and the through or low loss is passed to branch 2.

323 To input a 3-way splitter with the through leg feeding down screen (branch 1), press 0 Alter and 3 assuming that 3 is the coupler ID number of your 3-way splitter. In this case, the through leg is feeding branch 1, and the tap legs are feeding branches 2 and 3.

3 -23 Here the through leg feeds branch 2 and the tap legs feed branches 1 and 3. If you want edit the 323 configuration so that the through leg to feeds branch 2, press 0 to Alter and - 3. A single - designates the through leg applies the left most coupler column, in this instance branch 2.

3 =23 Here the through leg feeds branch 3 and the tap legs feed branches 1 and 2. If you want the through leg to feed branch 3, press 0 to Alter and - - 3. The designation looks like an equals sign but it is actually two - - indicating that the through leg is applied to the right most coupler column. In this case branch 3.

Through Leg Designators

In summary a negative - sign before a branch bracket designates the through leg as the branch in the left most coupler column.

A double negative - - looks like an equal sign and designates the through leg as the branch in the right most coupler column.

You can also cycle through the tap leg designations and couplers by using the + or - keys.

Moving Around

The keyboard commands to move around in the Design mode are the same as in Power and Entry Mode.

Keyboard

See more about Using the Keyboard in the getting started section.

+ Increase value:

When activated over a tap or two-way coupler (splitter or DC), will change it to the next higher value tap or two-way coupler and recalculate signal levels. If used in a tap column where there is no tap present, it will select a tap to put there. If used in the active column, it will change the device there to the next line number, if no active is present, it will place an active ID number11.

- Decrease value:

When activated over a tap or two-way coupler (splitter or DC), will change it to the next lower value tap or two-way coupler and recalculate signal levels. If used in the coupler column where a branch has been created but no coupler has been specified, it will place the first two or three way coupler listed in the spec file. If used in a tap column where there is no tap present, it will select a tap to put there; if used in the active column, it will change the device there to the prior line number; if no active is present, it will place an active ID 11.

/ Toggle display format:

Switches the network display between normal (one line per node) and expanded (five lines per node). The expanded display shows, in addition to the normal display, the output from each tap, pads and equalizers used if there is an active device on that node, footage from last device and from the beginning of the network, dB of cable from the last device and from the beginning of the network, cascade depth, and output from the node.

The actual expanded screen at an amplifier location will look something like the following:

Expanded display

The expanded display is shown when using the / Toggle display command. This section provides a graphical display guide.

A The normal display of the signal levels, ftg, hc, cab, etc on Node 1.11

Line 1 of the expanded display.

B Underground housing used at this node – blank if none. Located below Node 1.11

C Amplifier name (if named amp exists) inside brackets

D Map number – if entered in Entry screen, to the right of Amplifier name bracket and left of Forward pad

E Forward pad value

F Forward equalizer value

Line 2 of the expanded display is shown.

G Power supply name feeding this node if there is an amp here – shown in brackets if PS is located at this node, in parenthesis if not

H Location number – if input in Entry screen

I Reverse pad value

J Reverse equalizer value

Line 3 of the expanded display is shown.

K Aerial distance to previous active (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

L Aerial distance to start of network (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

M Total distance to previous active or split (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

N Total distance to previous active (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

O Total distance to start of network (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

P dB of cable to previous active or split (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

Q dB of cable to previous active (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

R dB of cable to start of network (only displayed if there is an amp or split at this node)

Line 4 of the expanded display is shown.

S Cascade depth of amps (amp codes 61-89 and 41-49) – Cascade depth of line extenders (LE codes 11-33H)

T Quantity of amps (including this amp) from this node downstream – Quantity of line extenders from this node downstream

U Total house count (including HC at this node) downstream to end of line

V Signal levels (white text) leaving node – after equipment but before next distance

W Tap port output signal levels – displays a — if there is no tap present. Each line represents the tap column

X Tap number – may display tap pad and equalizer values instead if using any type of tap that utilizes plugin pads and equalizers. Values for forward EQ’s are displayed under ftg, return EQ’s under hc, forward pads under cab, and return pads under amp.

Design Commands

* * Macro

Allows you to create and edit macros.

More Macros

See Macros for more information. Also on the Tools pull-down under Macro Options.

Enter Recalculates signal levels at the cursor location and moves the cursor down one line. This command is not shown on the menu.

0 Alter

0 Alter Prompts for the ID number of a new piece of equipment to be placed at the cursor position. If the cursor is in the ftg-hc-cab-lv column, this will allow editing of the information under the cursor; if no cable type or tap output level is specified, the previous type will be retained. In the tap columns, it is possible to specify the number of ports desired on the tap and the system will automatically select the value. In all columns except the ftg-hc-cab-lv, pressing the 0 home key will display a list of possible equipment (as defined in the current spec files) to be input. Placing the cursor on the desired piece of equipment in the list and pressing Enter will place the highlighted piece of equipment at that location.

.0 Break

. 0 Break (Break node) This will break the node under the cursor into two nodes, always keeping the footage and cable in the first node and the coupler(s) in the second node. Taps and actives may be shuffled between the two nodes depending on the cursor position when this command is invoked. If the cursor is on the ftg-hc-cab-lv column, the house count and all equipment other than the footage and cable type will be placed on the second node. If the cursor is in the LE column, the LE and any couplers will be moved to the second node, but any taps will not be. If the cursor is on one of the tap columns, the tap, house count, amplifier (if present), and coupler (if present) will all be moved to the new node. In each case, any couplers will be placed on the second node, and if the cursor is on either of the coupler columns, no other piece of equipment will be placed on the second node.

..0 SpcVw

. . 0 Spec View: Then, select the number to the left of the spec file you want to view. This function will display the specified spec file (2-9) in a separate window. You can then use the arrow keys to view the entire file but no changes can be made to the file. Pressing Escape will return to the normal view.

Spec View

This display of the specs has been modified in a print format and will not look identical to the spec editors.

1 Jump

1 Jump: Allows you to quickly "jump" to virtually any place in the network. See Utilities -> Jump for full details on the power of the jump command. It will easily be one of the most used commands in the program.

.1 Join

. 1 Join (Join nodes): Combines the node under the cursor with the following node, into one node. Note: this cannot be done if the first node has equipment and the second node has a non-zero footage, or if the two nodes have different cable types.

..1 Xspec

. . 1 Xspec: To invoke this command you must type . . 1 . When this function is called, it displays 10 sets of spec files (Parameters, Actives, Taps, Couplers, Cables, Pricing, and Performance) labeled 0 through 9. Pressing the corresponding number will load all the specs listed on that line. You may edit this file from here by pressing the / .

More Specs

See Spec Files -> Xspec for more details.

2 Forward

2 Forward (Forward execute single node): Selects taps and optionally equalizers, recalculates signals, and advances to the next node.

.2 BkFeed

. 2 BkFeed (Backfeed): If cursor is not at the start point of an existing backfeed (pole# 1039 in Figure 7-5) or the node immediately following a backfeed (pole# 1040), this command will create a new branch containing a backfeed of one node in length beginning at the cursor position. If the cursor is at the starting point of an existing backfeed (pole# 1039), it will extend the existing backfeed by one node. If the cursor is at the node immediately following an existing backfeed (pole# 1040), this function will move the starting point of the backfeed to the node at the cursor, extending it forward one node in the process. If a backfeed reaches a branch start point, the Design Assistant will give the option to move the coupler onto the backfeed branch.

Branch numbers of backfeeds will be shown in curly braces { }.

..2 FwFd

. . 2 FwdFd (Forwardfeed): To invoke this function you must actually type . . 2 . It operates the same as the Backfeed . 2 function above except it creates forwardfeeds instead. Branch numbers of forwardfeeds will be shown in angled brackets < >.

3 Carry

3 Carry: This function "picks up" an active device at the current node. Once a device has been picked up, it will move along with the cursor until it is put down by pressing 3 . You can move the amplifier/LE by using the arrow keys or the mouse wheel. Carry will be toggled off if you try to move an amp onto a node that is already occupied by another amp. Each time the cursor (and the active) is moved, the function "forward to line extenders" will be invoked, re-selecting subsequent

Figure 7-5

tap values. Note that any method of moving the cursor (jump, page up, page down, etc.) will also move the active device. “Carry Amp” is displayed to the right of the OP optimization tool indicating Carry Amp is active.

.3 UnBkFd

. 3 UnBkFd (Unbackfeed): If the cursor is placed at the start point of the backfeed (pole# 1039 in Figure 7-5), this function will reduce the length of the backfeed by one, returning the house count at the far end of the backfeed to the main run.

..3 UnFFd

. . 3 UnFFd (Unforwardfeed): To invoke this function you must type . . 3 . It operates the same as the Unbackfeed function (. 3 above) except it unforwardfeeds.

4 Fwd2A

4 Fwd2A (Forward to Amplifier): Execute forward, placing taps and in-line equalizers and recalculating signals, stopping at amplifiers, line extenders, or ends of line, whichever come first.

.4 XFd2A

. 4 XFd2A (Extended Forward to Amplifier): This will execute Fwd2A, but it will do so with the use of AutoCpl (see function 7 AutoCpl below) to attempt to pick couplers that will work with existing amplifier/line extender placements. If this cannot be accomplished, it will try to minimize the number of different locations where there is insufficient signal to place a tap, preferring to have one large area of insufficient signal to several small ones. Note that this will not affect couplers upstream of the cursor or downstream of any downstream amplifiers or line extenders.

..4 BrLabel

. . 4 BrLabel (Branch Label): This function allows you to give your branches a name up to 14 characters. Once a branch is named, the name will display, in brackets “ ” directly to the right of the network name at the top of the screen. For example, if you named branch 3 (of 7) “Broadway”, then the top of the screen would show Broadway Starting 1.4. Any branches fed from “Broadway” and not specifically given a name of their own will display the name “Broadway” in parenthesis “( )”.

5 Test

5 Test: This function recalculates the signal level throughout the network and displays any errors or warnings found. It also allows the cursor to be moved to another node. The Test function will check for insufficient signal input to an active, incorrect cascade, excessive crossover, tap output below spec, etc.

Test Error

Please see the section Test Errors Errorsat at the end of this chapter for a more detailed definition of the errors.

.5 MoveCpl

. 5 MoveCpl (Carry Coupler): Allows easy movement of coupler(s) and attached branch(es). Invoking this command will "pick up" one or both couplers at a node - if there is only one split at a single node, this function will always pick up the branch and its coupler. If two branches begin at a node, invoking it from the footage, LE, or tap columns will pick up both couplers. Invoking it from either coupler column will only pick up the branch that starts in that column.

You can move the coupler by using the arrow keys or the mouse wheel. Note that if two branches are fed by a three-way coupler and only one of them is carried and then placed at a different node, the three-way coupler will be deleted. Once this command has been invoked, a "Carry Coupler" will appear to the right of the optimization tool, indicating that Carry Coupler is active. When the cursor is moved to another location and . 5 is pressed a second time the coupler will be moved to that location. Note that this may be used to move a branch between the first and second positions on a single node. Note also that this function differs from the Carry function previously defined because it is not “dragged” along as the cursor is moved.

..5 Dsmry

. . 5 Dsmry (Downstream Summary): This will calculate and display the total distance, strand and trench, house counts, power supplies, PCD’s, and number of actives from the cursor location down. This includes any actives at the cursor location and any networks fed from the one in memory. Note: if any networks are fed from the network currently loaded, an Autoappend must be performed on at least the downstream area for an accurate count.

6 WillWrk

6 WillWrk (Will Work): This is probably the most powerful command available. WillWork selects all taps and equalizers and calculates signals from the cursor to the ends of line based on the signal levels shown at the cursor.

.6 XWillWk

. 6 XWillWk (Extended WillWork): Same as Extended Forward to Line Extenders above, but will stop only at the ends of line and not at downstream line extenders. Note that this function may change coupler values if they were not picked with the AutoCpl or other “extended” functions.

..6 Clear

. . 6 Clear: Will give the option to remove all amplifiers, taps, couplers, fixed nodes, or all from the cursor location downstream. Note that all options except “All” will keep the equipment at any node that is fixed.

7 AutoCpl

7 AutoCpl (AutoCoupler): Selects coupler(s) at the current node. If the cursor is in any column except one of the coupler columns, the coupler that it selects will leave as much signal as possible coming down the screen and send the least amount of signal to the branch beginning at this node. If it cannot supply enough signal to feed the off-screen branches, it will display an error message that states “Cannot select coupler at node x.x”. If the cursor is in one of the coupler columns, the coupler selected will attempt to give the maximum amount of signal possible to the off-screen branches and the least amount of signal coming down the screen. If it cannot select a coupler that makes the branch coming down the screen work, it will display a message that states “Cannot select coupler at node x.x”.

.7 SetMDU

. 7 SetMDU: Opens a window for the entry of MDU (Multiple Dwelling Unit) information. This window consists of four lines with spaces to specify the footage, coupler, cable, level, and quantity. You may enter this information for up to four rate taps at each location (please see Chapter 5: Utilities, section MDU Definition Window for more information.

..7 CAwBF

. . 7 CAwBF (CarryLE with backfeed and forwardfeed): This function allows the movement of and/or automated creation of backfeeds and forwardfeeds while carrying an active. When this function is activated, a highlighted "A" will appear in the lower right corner of the menu.

8 Recalc

8 Recalc (recalculate): Recalculate signals throughout the network, leaving all equipment unchanged.

.8 RotTap

. 8 RotTap (Rotate tap): The purpose of this function is to quickly move a tap from the input to the output(s) of a coupler. This is a relatively simple concept, but is a very powerful optimization tool. First, it will create a node with zero footage downstream of the split and move the tap(s) and house count onto it. When invoked for a second time, it will move the node and tap(s) onto the branch beginning at this node. When invoked again, it will move the node and tap(s) back to its original position. If two branches begin at this node, it will first move the taps downstream, and then to the branch on the left, then to the branch on the right, then back to its original position. Note that each time it is used, the cursor should be on the node where the branches begin and you should execute a WillWork to ensure all levels have been recalculated.

..8 XCAmp

. . 8 XCAmp (Extended Carry Amp):

This command is active until it is put down with:

• 3 Carry

• . . 7 CAwBF

• . . 8 XCAmp

0 Carry only

Will "pick up" and move the active along with cursor. Each time the cursor is moved, F2LE (Forward to Line Extenders) will be activated.

1 w/ bf & ff

This will carry the LE and allow the movement of and/or automated creation of backfeeds and forwardfeeds.

2 bf, ff, AutoCpl

This will carry LE, move or create any backfeeds or forwardfeeds and use Autocoupler to select couplers to feed the backfeed or forwardfeed.

3 bf, ff, Xftole

This will carry the LE, move or create any backfeeds or forwardfeeds and perform the Extended forward to LE function.

4 bf, ff, Xftole, cpl here fixed

Will carry LE; move or create backfeeds and forwardfeeds; perform the Extended forward to LE function while leaving the coupler at the current node fixed.

9 Toggle

9 Toggle: Selecting toggle will open a sub-menu with more options.

0 Signal display

Toggles the display between RF signal levels and performance levels. If more than four distortion types are defined in the Performance file, this option will toggle the display through them in groups of four before returning to the RF signal display. The column headings will also be changed with the signal display.

1 Automatic EQ

Switches equalizer placement modes between three modes:

• EQ+ Automatic: Equalizers will be placed automatically wherever the crossover exceeds the maximum crossover spec and removed wherever it doesn't.

• EQe Automatic placement except for the last node in a branch or a node immediately preceding a line extender: As above, but equalizers will not be placed or removed on the last node in a branch or immediately preceding a line extender.

• EQ- Manual: Equalizers will neither be placed nor removed automatically.

You may set the default to any of the three on the first page of the Parameters spec file.

2 Optimization

Toggles between three tap optimization options:

• Off (OP-): The Design Assistant will select taps according to the default selection chart on the tap selection tab in the Parameters.

• On (OP+): The Design Assistant will select taps and combinations of taps with the lowest insertion loss to maximize the signal sent down stream. This is useful in areas with large house counts or areas that are proving difficult to design, however, if used always it may select odd combinations of taps that are not necessary.

• On Failure (Opf): The Design Assistant will select taps normally until there is not enough signal to feed downstream at which point it will automatically attempt tap optimization. The default tap optimization setting can be specified in the Parameters file on the tap selection tab.

3 Locked

Toggles the fixed flag at the cursor position. If a node is fixed, indicated by an arrow displayed to the left of the footage column, the equipment at the node will not be modified by the semi-automatic design commands (ex. WillWork) in the Design mode. You can also double click in this column to toggle the lock On or Off.

Note: Anytime a node containing an active has been "Fixed" (locked), that amplifier will continue to reference the same Pads\EQs Bank even if the bank is changed in the Active Specifications. Once the node is "Unfixed" (unlocked) the active will reference the bank indicated in the specifications the next time the signal is recalculated or the network is opened.

Default: Off

4 Branch order

If two branches begin at the node the cursor is on, toggling the branch order will swap their positions, with appropriate changes in signal levels downstream (if any) due to repositioning the couplers (if two couplers are used instead of a three-way).

5 Swap branch 1

6 Swap branch 2

This function will swap the information that is displayed off-screen due to a branch start point with the information that is coming down the screen. Use 5 to swap information when one branch begins at the cursor location or to swap the information with the branch on the left when two branches begin at the cursor location. Use 6 to swap the current branch information with the branch on the right when two branches begin at the cursor location. Note that if there are two branches beginning at the node, and two separate couplers are being used (not just a three-way splitter), swapping with the first branch will change the signal levels in the first off-screen and the down screen-branch.

7 Slush Propagation

Toggles whether to propagate “slush signal” throughout the system. Slush signal is defined as deviations in the output level of actives without AGC caused by the fact that pad and equalizer values are available only in discrete steps rather than being continuously variable. For example, assume the minimum input to an amplifier is 15dB and the actual input level is 19.7dB. In this case, the Design Assistant will pick a 4 pad (because it won’t overpad) and in a non-AGC amplifier, the actual output of that amp would be 0.7dB higher than it should. When Slush propagation is on, it will carry that 0.7dB on down the line for use in pad, equalizer, and tap selection. When invoked, options are displayed to turn it off, propagate slush signal in the forward path only, return path only, or forward and return. When on, the Design Assistant will display an “Slush F” for forward only, “Slush R” for return only, or “Slush F/R” to the right of the optimization tool button.

Default: Off

8 AutoCost

Gives a running total of the materials and labor cost of the network currently loaded. It is displayed at the top of the screen in the title bar. Cost calculation is done according to the figures entered into the Pricing specification file. If this spec file is not filled in or not loaded, Autocost may still be switched on, but will show a zero value. Autocost need not run at all times to track costs; cost calculation is performed whenever the function is toggled on.

Default: Off

9 Fudge Level

Sets up a tap margin of a specified amount, allowing the semi- automatic design functions such as WW (WillWork) and Fwd (Forward) to select taps in the yellow and red ranges, instead of only in the green. Conversely, it can also be used to guarantee a certain amount of signal above the minimum output shown in the "lv" column. The Fudge level's default is zero, in which state taps selected by the computer will be picked as closely as possible to the tap output level entered at the node in question. The fudge level may be set to any value, positive, negative, or zero. If a positive level is selected, the Design will always attempt to fudge any taps it selects by that many dB, possibly resulting in yellow or red taps. A negative value will result in taps being selected that are at least the Fudge factor above the minimum tap output requirements. In neither case, will this affect manual selection of taps or colors in which taps are displayed. Fudged taps lower than tap minimum output will be displayed in yellow or red regardless of the setting of the fudge level. Anytime a red or yellow tap is selected it must be fixed to keep it when the fudge level is set back to zero. The fudge level will automatically be reset to zero upon exiting the Design.

/ Deviation Type

Toggles between the three Full Spectrum Plugin Deviation options. A drop down menu, DEV Located next to the toolbar buttons, selection in Design mode is available for full spectrum plugins. The current selection option is displayed in the drop down.

• Fwd Dev: Finds the plugin to provide the least slope deviation for forward frequencies only.

• Rtn Dev: Finds the plugin to provide the least slope deviation for return frequencies only.

• Total Dev: Finds the plugin to provide the least cumulative slope deviation on all forward and return frequencies.

.9 Copy

. 9 Copy: Copies the network currently loaded in memory. Use the Paste command (Edit pull-down), to paste the copied items.

..9 LckDStr

. . 9 LckDStr (Lock Downstream): Will open a sub-menu with more options to lock objects downstream from the cursor location.

1. Lock Downstream: Will fix all nodes downstream of the cursor
2. Unlock Downstream: This function changes all nodes from the cursor position down to not fixed
3. Lock Amp Nodes Only: Will lock/fix all nodes where there is an active code in the amp column
4. Lock Tap Nodes Only: Will lock/fix all nodes where there are tap codes in the tap column
5. Unlock Amp Nodes Only: Will unlock/un-fix all nodes where there is an active code in the amp column
6. Unlock Tap Nodes Only: Will unlock/un-fix all nodes where there are tap codes in the tap column

./ Distance

. / Distance (Calculate distance): Asks for a node in the current network and then calculates the total distance between the specified node and the node at the cursor position. These nodes need not be in the same branch nor need one be fed from the other.

.+ Name

. + Name (Open Amplifier Definition Window): Within this function you may specify a name for the amplifier at the cursor location and assign the feeder legs that begin from that amp/LE as well as move to, rename, or delete these feeder legs. This command will have no effect if no amplifier is present at this location.

Amplifier Definition Window

See Chapter 5: Utilities, section Amplifier Definition Window for more information.

..+ Notes

. . + Note: Place a stick note at the current cursor location.

The “Sticky Note” function allows entry of a text note at any node in the network. This note may be used to enter any information desired. If your project calls for the same basic information at many locations, you may want to create a form. A form is a file that can be attached via a note and used multiple times through out the network(s). You may create this form in any text editor and save it as <filename>.F00. Once the changes to the note have been saved, the Design Assistant will display a yellow musical note ♪ on the line between the cab and lv columns.

Pad/EQ Selection

The Design Assistant automatically selects plug in pads and equalizers for actives and taps. Plug in pads and equalizers are only selected for taps that are specifically designated to use plug in devices.

Building Spec Files

See Specs -> Taps -> Pads\EQs for full details.

Plug in pads and equalizers can be manually changed to reflect asbuilt changes by placing the cursor on the device (amp or tap) that you wish to modify, and either clicking on the 🔌 Edit Plugins button or selecting Plugins from the Tools pull-down menu to open the Pad/EQ editor.

Amp Pad and EQ selection

The Pad/EQ editor for amplifiers provide drop down boxes with lists of the available values for Forward and Return pads and equalizers. The bottom half of the editor consists of two boxes that display signal levels. The levels in the “Amp Forward Inputs” box represent the signal level at the amp module (after the pad and equalizer). The levels in the “Amp Return Outputs” box are the actual return output levels directly after the return pad and equalizer. The levels in both boxes update to reflect any manually selected pads and equalizers.

Tap Pad and EQ selection

The Pad/EQ editor for taps provides drop down boxes with lists of the available values for Forward and Return pads and equalizers

If the OK button is clicked to close the Pad/EQ editor, the user will be prompted to lock the pad and EQ values. If Yes is selected, then those values will not be automatically changed by any recalculation within the program. An arrow will appear between the second return frequency and amplifier columns. This is an indicator that the values are locked or fixed. The user can unlock the values by either double clicking on the arrow or accessing the fixed option from the Toggle menu.

Locked/Fixed

Anytime a node containing an active has been Locked/Fixed, that amplifier will continue to reference the same Pads\EQs Bank even if the bank is changed in the Active Specifications. Once the node is "Unfixed/Unlocked" the active will reference the bank indicated in the specifications the next time the signal is recalculated or the network is opened.

Popup Menu

Right Click anywhere on the Design Screen and a Popup menu will appear. This mouse controlled menu enables you to:

Toggle Expanded Display: Same as using /

Recalc: Signal Levels 8

Edit Notes: Same as . . + Note

Display Colors: The Display color options allows you to modify the color of the font (foreground) and/or the screen (background) in the program.

Move to Column: Move the cursor to a specific column. This is primarily used in recording macros.

Copy: Copy network or marked area. Same as Edit ➡ Copy.

Paste: Paste or Load network. Same as Edit ➡ Paste.

Availability

The popup menu is available in Entry, Active Entry, and Power but only contains the option to change the Display Color.

Test Errors

Following is a list of all the errors that the 5 Test tests for. All errors are displayed in red if fatal or bad, and yellow if marginal. When fatal errors are encountered, the Test function will be aborted.

To jump to the error listed double click on the line or use the arrow keys to navigate to the line and then hit ENTER

Fatal Errors include:

Branch does not begin anywhere

The branch listed has no starting node defined. If this error is encountered when attempting to enter the Design menu, then the program will immediately display the Entry menu. Once at the Entry menu, you will be able to reconnect the branches to a valid starting point within the network. This error is most typically caused when the Delete key is pressed while the cursor is placed on a node where a branch or branches begin. Pressing the Delete key in this situation does not delete the information on that branch it only deletes the start point of it. All branches that do not begin anywhere will display the message NO STARTING NODE on the top of the screen. Possible fixes are to either delete the branch(es) using the Delete Branch command (if you don’t need the information) or using the Change Start command to move the start point to a valid location. Both of these commands are accessible from the Entry menu.

Branch not fed from branch 1

The branch listed, if followed upstream as far as possible, ends before returning to branch 1. Go to the very beginning of the disconnected branch(es) and, from the Entry, use - 5 Change Start, to connect it to a proper location. This is a very uncommon message and can sometimes indicate corruption within the network.

Branch contains a loop

The branch listed contains a loop. A loop is a branch, which is connected in more than one location to its parent branch. This is a very uncommon message and generally indicates corruption within the network.

Branch is not fed by any coupler

No coupler has been placed to feed this branch. Simply place a coupler at the designated location.

Nonfatal errors are generated when the test is allowed to finish to completion and the test is not aborted.

Nonfatal errors are:

Branch does not contain any nodes

An empty branch contains no nodes at all. Place at least a single zero node in the branch or eliminate the branch completely. Hitting the Delete key on the only node in a branch while in the Entry menu generally causes this. This could also be caused by the custom cascade settings in the Actives file.

Unused LE placed

A line extender that is not listed as being used according to the LE cascade specification in the Parameters file has been placed. For example, a 31 LE has been placed despite the fact that the maximum line extender cascade for the design has been listed as 2.

Line extender cascade

For more information about the maximum line extender cascade, please see Building Specification Files, the Parameters section.

Undefined Cable type

A Cable type is being used at the specified location, which is not defined in the Cable specification file.

Duplicate Amp ID

Multiple amplifiers within the network have the same name or label. All amplifiers must have unique names, therefore simply rename the appropriate amplifiers using the Amplifier Definition Window.

LE X/N before/M after (LE Cascade violation)

An amplifier has been placed out of its cascade specifications. In the error message the “X” represents the LE or AMP in question, the “N” represents how many LEs or AMPs are before the one in question, and the “M” represents how many Les or AMPs are placed after the one in question.

LE 21/1 before/1 after

The message LE 21/1 before/1 after means that there is a 21 placed with 1 LE before and 1 LE after for a total of three in cascade (counting the line extender itself).

Fslope too low to equalize

There is no valid forward equalizer for the line extender/amplifier at this node; all defined equalizers will over equalize this device. Short spacing amplifiers usually cause this. One possible solution is to move the amplifier farther away from the previous amplifier. This message occurs most frequently in networks whose spec files contain no cable simulators.

Input too low for CS

The high positive slope at the input to the active requires a Cable Simulator to correctly adjust the input levels to the amp module, and the Cable Simulator necessary for the slope correction results in too low of an input level for the specified device.

Rslope too low to equalize

There is no valid return equalizer for the line extender/amplifier at this node; all defined equalizers will over equalize this device.

--- input of xxx to LE

Insufficient input (at the specified frequency) to a line extender or amplifier.

--- output of xxx from LE

Return output (at the specified frequency) required from the line extender or amplifier is greater than the maximum specification.

--- signal below min

Signal level is below minimum value specified by level specification selected at the specified frequency for this node. Applies to nodes with levels but no house counts.

Nonexistent tap used

A tap that has not been defined in the specification files has been placed. This message generally occurs when switching between different specification files. Often times this can be fixed by using the WillWork with the current specs.

Invalid terminating tap used

A self-terminating tap has been placed upstream of other equipment. This situation will also create other messages at the equipment downstream. Therefore, fixing this problem can sometimes clear other error messages as well.

Tapout(---) below min

Tap output below minimum at specified frequency.

Tapout(---) above max

Return input required at tap port is above the maximum level at specified frequency.

Crossover above max

Forward low channel level exceeds forward high channel level by greater than the maximum crossover specification in the Parameters file.

Return Xover

Return high channel level exceeds return low channel level by greater than the maximum return crossover specification in the Parameters file.

Not enough taps

Too few tap spigots to feed either the specified house count or the number of drops required for an MDU.

Not enough drops

Specified MDU drops and drop splitters not sufficient to feed the house count at a node.

Performance errors

Displays error messages anytime the particular performance level drops below the specified warning level. These will appear with whatever distortion type description has been entered into the spec files.

Example

If Composite Triple Beat has been defined in the spec files as CTB, the error message will state CTB of xx.xx at y.y. The xx.xx is the actual distortion level; y.y represents the branch.node with the problem.

Invalid internal coupler

A coupler designated as internal in the Coupler spec file is being used in an invalid location. Typically caused by placing an internal coupler at a location that does not contain an Active, or by placing an external device (such as a tap) in between the Active and the internal coupler.

MDU window w/o house count

A MDU window exists at a location without a house count.

Tap Levels over window

The output levels from the designated tap are higher than the range established by adding the Tap Window level to the Minimum tap output level.

Tap Level below window

The return input levels required at the designated tap port fall below the minimum level established by subtracting the Return Tap Window level from the Maximum tap input level.

Tap Cascade error

The tap cascade limit has been exceeded. The tap cascade limit is the maximum number of taps in any given signal path. This value is set on the General Parameters tab in the Parameters file.