The ACI DSIM-CC & DSIM-CF (Digital Station Intelligence Manager) is a next-generation automatic gain control (AGC) module designed for outside plant maintenance teams, offering advanced station diagnostic tools. This device is available in two main configurations: DSIM-CC (for Flexnet E7 series amplifiers) and DSIM-CF (for FNT/FNB 700 amplifiers). The DSIM AGC module is agile, allowing for flexible program settings to be modified at any time. This includes changing the pilot channel number and type (analog to digital) or switching between operational modes such as Single Pilot AGC (SPAGC) or manual modes. This reprogrammability offers significant cost savings compared to fixed SPAGC modules, as only the program settings need to be updated rather than replacing the entire AGC module.

Function Description:

The primary function of the DSIM is to provide automatic gain control for amplifiers, ensuring stable pilot levels. It operates in several modes:

Manual Gain Control (MGC) Mode: In this mode, the DSIM's automatic gain control is turned off. This is the default mode for amplifier setup, allowing technicians to set input and output levels without automatic adjustments. The controller LED will be solid blue, and the DSIM LED will blink blue every half second.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Mode: In AGC mode, the DSIM makes gain adjustments based on level changes detected on the pilot channel, maintaining pilot level stability. The controller LED blinks blue every half second, and the DSIM LED displays a channel and channel type pattern.
Thermal Gain Control (TGC) Mode: The DSIM-CC and DSIM-CF do not actively function in TGC mode. This mode is only activated if the pilot channel is lost. In such cases, the DSIM compensates based on recent memory of temperature and bode position. The controller LED will be steady purple.
Align Process: This is a critical setup phase where the DSIM locks onto the pilot channel and saves its level. This process takes approximately 45 seconds. During this time, the controller LED flashes blue/red, and the DSIM LED flashes a channel and type pattern. If the pilot is too low, the DSIM will enter a thermal fallback state.
AGC Mode: Thermal Fallback: If the pilot signal drops by more than 10 dB, the DSIM transitions to thermal fallback. It calculates the output level until the pilot channel returns, at which point it resumes AGC mode. The controller LED blinks blue every half second, and the DSIM LED flashes blue/orange.
Align Process: Thermal Fallback: If the align process fails (e.g., due to incorrect levels or AGC PAD settings), the DSIM enters this state. The controller LED flashes blue/red, and the DSIM LED flashes blue/orange. Users are advised to check/adjust levels or reduce AGC PAD and return to MGC mode to retry the alignment.

Important Technical Specifications:

Pilot Channel Range: The DSIM can be programmed to use either an analog or digital pilot signal from channels 52 to 142.
LED Indicators:
- DSIM Module LED: A bi-colored blue and orange LED indicates different operational modes and settings.
  - Steady Repeating Blue Dashes: Manual Mode
  - Series of Blue Blinks: Pilot Channel Number (refer to section 9 for specific blink sequences)
  - Single Blue Long Dash Between Series of Blue Blinks: IRC Analog channel is set
  - 2 Blue Long Dashes Between Series of Blue Blinks: Digital channel is set
  - 3 Blue Long Dashes Between Series of Blue Blinks: TGC Mode (default cable length setting for TGC mode is 27 dB of cable in front of the amplifier)
  - Quick Blue / Orange Blinks: Pilot paste in progress, or pilot channel not found/lost.
- DSIM Controller LED: A bi-colored blue and red LED indicates the current optional mode setting.
  - Quick Blue / Red Blinks: DSIM controller to module syncing process, or aligning process in progress.
  - Steady on Blue: In MGC Mode.
  - Series of Blue Blinks: In AGC Mode.
  - Steady on Purple: In TGC Mode.
Fault Conditions (DSIM Module LED):
- Steady on Pink: 24-volt input into DSIM module is out of operational range (21.5 to 26.5 VDC). Requires checking AC voltage input to the amplifier and DC voltage of the internal power supply.
- Steady Repeating Orange Blinks: Temperature in DSIM module is too high (above 221°F/105°C) or too low (below -40°F/-40°C).
- Quick Blue / Orange Blinks: Pilot Lost; DSIM automatically switches to Thermal (TGC) mode until the pilot channel is restored.
Reserve Gain Settings (based on outside temperature):
- Above 100°F: -2dB
- Between 80°F & 100°F: -3dB
- Between 40°F & 80°F: -4dB
- Between 20°F & 40°F: -5dB
- Below 20°F: -6dB

Usage Features:

Quick Start Instructions for Single Pilot AGC Operation:
1. Install the amplifier with the DSIM-CC or DSIM-CF.
2. Attach the adapter cable to the DSIM, then plug the DSIM into the adapter cable. The controller light should be solid blue (MGC mode); if not, press the mode button until it is.
3. Set input and output levels according to system design.
4. Set Reserve Gain: Max out the gain using the '+' button on the controller, then back off the gain based on the outside temperature using the provided table.
5. Perform a final balance of downstream levels.
6. Press the mode button once. The controller light will flash blue and red for approximately 45 seconds (Align Process). Once complete, it will show a half-second blue blink, indicating AGC mode.
7. Remove the controller, then the cable from the DSIM. Setup is complete.
DSIM Controller Operation:
- '+' Switch (Increase): In MGC Mode, increases RF output level. No function in AGC or TGC modes.
- '-' Switch (Decrease): In MGC Mode, decreases RF output level. No function in AGC or TGC modes.
- 'Mode' Switch (Mode Change):
  - In MGC mode: Initiates Align Mode to load controller channel settings, then automatically switches to AGC mode.
  - In AGC mode: Returns to TGC Mode.
  - In TGC mode: Returns to MGC Mode.
Pilot Channel Programming: The DSIM controller comes preset with a desired pilot channel. During setup, this pilot channel program is downloaded from the controller into the DSIM module's memory. The pilot channel setting can be changed in the future by using a controller programmed with the new desired channel.
Warm-up Procedure (if outside temperature is below 20°F):
- 0°F to 20°F: 5 minutes.
- Below 0°F: 10 minutes.
- Closing the amplifier's housing can speed up warm-up time.
DSIM Interface Cable Assembly (P/N 240330-01): Used to connect the DSIM controller to the DSIM AGC module. The connection sequence is: plug the controller cable into the DSIM, then plug the controller into the cable. Removal is the reverse: remove the controller from the cable, then remove the cable from the DSIM.

Maintenance Features:

Diagnostic Tools: The DSIM provides unprecedented station diagnostic tools for outside plant maintenance.
Reprogrammability: The ability to reprogram the DSIM modules (e.g., changing pilot channel, type, or operational mode) reduces the need for hardware replacement, simplifying system modifications and maintenance.
Fault Indication: Clear LED blinking patterns for fault conditions (e.g., out-of-range voltage, extreme temperatures, pilot loss) aid in quick troubleshooting and diagnosis.
Automatic Thermal Fallback: In case of pilot loss, the DSIM automatically switches to a thermal TGC mode, maintaining output levels based on recent memory until the pilot channel is restored, ensuring continued service.

aci DSIM-CC - Page 15

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