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L3 Communications MX-15i Operation & Maintenance Manual

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MX-15i Surveillance System
Operations & Maintenance Manual
TM00358 Rev. A
This document contains information proprietary to L-3 WESCAM.
Unauthorized reproduction or disclosure - in whole or in part - without the
prior written consent of L-3 WESCAM is strictly prohibited.

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Summary of Contents for L3 Communications MX-15i

  • Page 1 MX-15i Surveillance System Operations & Maintenance Manual TM00358 Rev. A This document contains information proprietary to L-3 WESCAM. Unauthorized reproduction or disclosure - in whole or in part - without the prior written consent of L-3 WESCAM is strictly prohibited.
  • Page 2 Document Usage. This document and all information herein contains Company Confidential information that is Proprietary and trade secret property of Wescam Inc. This commercially sensitive information is being disclosed to the recipient solely for the purpose specified and shall not be reproduced, disclosed or supplied, in whole or in part, to any third party without the prior written consent of Wescam Inc.

  • Page 3: Document Revisions

    TM00358 Rev. A Document Revisions Document Revisions Rev # Description Release # Date Initial Release ECO1645 2007-07-13 Revised per ECR#1715 ECO2464 2007-10-16 L-3 Wescam 649 North Service Road Burlington, Ontario L7P 5B9 Canada Tel: 905.633.4000 Fax: 905.633.4100 N.A. Toll Free: 1.888.593.7226 or 1.888.5-WESCAM Outside N.A.
  • Page 4 Document Revisions TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 5: Warnings & Cautions

    TM00358 Rev. A Warnings & Cautions Warnings & Cautions IMPORTANT. The following paragraphs list all warnings and cautions which appear in this manual. The warnings and cautions are listed in the order in which they appear throughout the manual (which may cause some to be repeated).
  • Page 6 Warnings & Cautions TM00358 Rev. A AND SEAL. • WIPE UP SUSPECTED CONTAMINATED AREAS WITH RYMPLECLOTH OR LENS TISSUE MOISTENED WITH ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL. • PLACE CLEANUP MATERIALS IN A DOUBLE PLASTIC BAG AND SEAL. • WASH HANDS IMMEDIATELY AFTER CLEANUP IS COMPLETE. •...
  • Page 7 TM00358 Rev. A Warnings & Cautions WARNING: AVOID DESICCANT MATERIAL CONTACT WITH SKIN, INGESTION OR INHALATION OF DUST. WHEN FIRST EXPOSED TO WATER, THE DESICCANT MATERIAL BECOMES VERY HOT. Caution: Make sure no water enters the desiccant enclosure during desiccant exchange. Caution: Remove the breather valve while it is facing upwards so desiccant material does not spill out.
  • Page 8 Warnings & Cautions TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    TM00358 Rev. A Table of Contents Table of Contents Document Revisions ..........................i Warnings & Cautions.........................iii Table of Contents..........................vii List of Figures............................. xi List of Tables............................ xiii Chapter 1 - System Overview SYSTEM CONFIGURATION ....................2 1.1.1 Power ........................3 1.1.2 Communications .....................4 1.1.3 Video Switch Matrix....................4 SYSTEM LRU COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS...............6...

  • Page 10: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Technical Description TURRET ..........................54 3.1.1 Lid .........................54 3.1.2 Yoke ........................55 3.1.3 Gimbal........................56 PAYLOAD SENSORS .......................57 3.2.1 EOW Sensor ......................57 3.2.2 IR Sensor ......................58 3.2.3 EON - MX-Day/Night Spotter™ Sensor ..............60 TURRET ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ..............63 3.3.1 Stow Position ......................63 3.3.2...
  • Page 11 TM00358 Rev. A Table of Contents Chapter 6 - Maintenance Information MAINTENANCE POLICY....................100 INSPECTING & CLEANING WINDOWS .................101 6.2.1 Environmental Considerations ................101 TURRET PURGING......................103 PURGE VALVE REPLACEMENT..................106 REMOVING & REPLACING THE DESICCANT ASSEMBLY ..........108 6.5.1 Remove and Replace the Desiccant Assembly ..........108 6.5.2 Removing, Refilling and Reinstalling the Desiccant Assembly ......109 LRU RETURN TO VENDOR PROCEDURE..............112...
  • Page 12 Table of Contents TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 13: List Of Figures

    Hand Controller .......................10 Figure 2-2 Hand Controller Face Plate Switches ..............10 Figure 2-3 Hand Controller Top Buttons...................14 Figure 2-4 Typical MX-15i Video Overlay Graphics ..............18 Figure 2-5 Tracking and Orientation Overlay Graphics ............19 Figure 2-6 LOS Reticle ......................19 Figure 2-7 Relative Zoom Status Bar ..................20...
  • Page 14 Figure 4-6 Turret Connectors ....................78 Figure 4-7 6-Bolt Tightening Pattern ..................78 Figure 4-8 MX-15i Turret Removal and Shipping Case Packing..........80 Chapter 5 - Failure Diagnosis Figure 5-1 Example of a Major BIT Failure in the System Status Menu ........86 Figure 5-2 Alarms Page ......................88...
  • Page 15 Hand Controller Primary Switch Controls ..............11 Table 2-2 Hand Controller Secondary Button Control Functions..........14 Table 2-3 Slew Transducer Functions for MX-15i System Steering Modes ......16 Table 2-4 Fields in the Level 1 System Status (Main) Menu ...........30 Table 2-5 Status Indications in the System Status Main Menu..........31 Table 2-6 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 Gimbal Menu .........32...
  • Page 16 List of Tables TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Maintenance Information Table 6-1 Window Cleaning — Consumables ...............101 Table 6-2 Window Cleaning — Tools ..................102 Table 6-3 Turret Purging — Parts and Support Equipment ...........103 Table 6-4 Turret Purging — Consumables ................103 Table 6-5 Purge Valve Replacement —...

  • Page 17: Chapter 1 - System Overview

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 1 - System Overview System Overview This chapter provides a system Chapter Contents: overview and details various • System Configuration ......2 component specifications.

  • Page 18: System Configuration

    • Hand Controller The turret provides hardware and software functions that allow crew members to operate the MX-15i system using the Hand Controller as the operator controls. External communication interfaces can be utilized to control operation remotely through aircraft computer systems.

  • Page 19: Power

    POWER switch on the Hand Controller both applies and removes power to the turret. Airframe Turret Systems Hand Aircraft Turret Controller Turret Turret Power Power Switch Relay +28 VDC Power Power Power Supply Circuit Circuit Figure 1-2 MX-15i System Power Distribution L-3 WESCAM October 2007 All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 20: Communications

    A video switch matrix manages analog video inputs from all imaging sensors. The video switch matrix also manages routing of all analog video outputs. Prior to output to an external display, the switch matrix applies graphical overlay annotations to the sensor video. The MX-15i features an 8x8 S-Video matrix with: •...

  • Page 21: Figure 1-3 Simplified Sensor Video Flow

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 1 - System Configuration Automatic Video Tracker (Optional) Video 1, S-Video Video 2, S-Video 8x8 Y/C Video 3, Composite Video S-Video Video 4, Composite Switch Comp Matrix Overlay Overlay Overlay Overlay Video Flow Figure 1-3 Simplified Sensor Video Flow Video Annotation Status graphics or text are rendered atop the analog video by 3 independent annotation streams –...

  • Page 22: System Lru Component Specifications

    GPS Antenna LRU Specification ....7 Table 1-3 Turret LRU Specifications Item Description Notes Nomenclature MX-15i Part Number: 42390 Weight ~40.8 - 45.4 kg (~90 -100 lbs) Weight depends on final configured payload Dimensions 39 cm ø...

  • Page 23: Table 1-4 Hand Controller Lru Specification

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 1 - System LRU Component Specifications Table 1-3 Turret LRU Specifications (Continued) Item Description Notes Storage Humidity 95%, 24 hours Max Altitude 12 802m (42 000 ft.) above sea level Max Airspeed 350 Knots indicated airspeed (operational) Mounted external to aircraft 425 Knots indicated airspeed (non-operational) Table 1-4 Hand Controller LRU Specification...
  • Page 24 Chapter 1 - System LRU Component Specifications TM00358 Rev. A Table 1-5 GPS Antenna LRU Specification (Continued) Item Description Notes Storage -55°C to 85°C (-67°F to 185°F) Temperature Max Altitude >-30m and <16 764m above sea level (>-100 and <55 000 ft. above sea level) October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 25: Chapter 2 - Operational Information

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Operational Information Operational Information Chapter Contents: This chapter describes how an operator would utilize the Hand • Hand Controller Controls ......10 Controller and navigate through •...

  • Page 26: Hand Controller Controls

    Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls TM00358 Rev. A 2.1 HAND CONTROLLER CONTROLS Operators can use the Hand Controller to perform the following functions: • Turn turret power ON or OFF • Steer the turret • Control system sensors • Change mode settings •...

  • Page 27: Table 2-1 Hand Controller Primary Switch Controls

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls Table 2-1 Hand Controller Primary Switch Controls Item Control Description SWITCHES AND CONTROLS ZOOM switch Sensor: • For the Video-In-Control (VIC), click up to zoom-in on the video image. • For the VIC, click down to zoom-out of the video image. Menu: •...
  • Page 28 Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls TM00358 Rev. A Table 2-1 Hand Controller Primary Switch Controls (Continued) Item Control Description MAN/AUTO switch • Click up to enable or disable the automatic sensitivity for the Video-In- MAN/ Control. AUTO • When in Manual mode, use the SENS switch to change sensitivity. Note: Sensitivity is similar to a brightness control on a television or computer FILTER monitor.
  • Page 29 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls Table 2-1 Hand Controller Primary Switch Controls (Continued) Item Control Description (12) Slew Transducer • Press up or down to change the elevation position of the turret. joystick • Press left or right to change the azimuth position of the turret. Map Mode: •...

  • Page 30: Hand Controller - Secondary Button Controls

    Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls TM00358 Rev. A 2.1.2 Hand Controller – Secondary Button Controls MENU LASER STOW FOCUS GATE CNTRL SCENE AUTH Figure 2-3 Hand Controller Top Buttons Table 2-2 Hand Controller Secondary Button Control Functions Item Control Description MENU button Menu:...
  • Page 31 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls Table 2-2 Hand Controller Secondary Button Control Functions (Continued) Item Control Description *MAP button • Press to enable Hand Controller steering control of a moving map cursor position. Note: Functionality depends on system integration. If you press the button and cannot steer the turret, press button once more to regain steering control.

  • Page 32: Slew Transducer & Turret Steering

    • Manual for full operator control • Assisted for panning and tilting movements • Automated full system steering control Table 2-3 Slew Transducer Functions for MX-15i System Steering Modes Steering Mode Steering Control Overlay Label Slew Transducer Function Stow Disabled STOW •...
  • Page 33 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Hand Controller Controls Table 2-3 Slew Transducer Functions for MX-15i System Steering Modes (Continued) Steering Mode Steering Control Overlay Label Slew Transducer Function Auto Automated AUTO • To maintain a locked image position on ground,...

  • Page 34: Video Status Overlays

    Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays TM00358 Rev. A 2.2 VIDEO STATUS OVERLAYS The MX-15i system presents video images with a combined graphical overlay. The overlay contains four types of user feedback information: • graphical aids for aiming and steering orientation •...

  • Page 35: Figure 2-5 Tracking And Orientation Overlay Graphics

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays 22NV2006 AUTO 2000 09:45:12 DFLT UTC+0.0 Relative Zoom POP-UP ALERTS Pitch Line-Of-Sight Indicator Reticle Next Zoom Elevation Scale MESSAGES 34 35 00 01 02 ACFT 27:46:12N 352° 153° 27:46:05N 82:57:16W 11050FT 679FT 35.3NM 82:57:22W...

  • Page 36: Messaging Graphics

    Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays TM00358 Rev. A Max FOV Wide FOV Narrow FOV Min FOV Current FOV Figure 2-7 Relative Zoom Status Bar 2.2.2 Messaging Graphics Messaging graphics provide status information about the system and its current operational condition. There are two types of messages that can be displayed in an overlay.

  • Page 37: Target And Aircraft Status Graphics

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays Sensor States. Displayed on sensor specific video only, and the messages will remain displayed until the sensor is operational. Messages will be displayed during: • sensors temperature conditioning and calibration • during IR sensor cooling, COOLING will flash in the IR video until the sensor has finished cooling •...

  • Page 38: Figure 2-10 Terrain Elevation After Slewing To Issued Coordinates

    Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays TM00358 Rev. A The accuracy of Terrain Elevation value will affect some of the system’s automated functions; like focus clarity, when operators are utilizing Geo-Focus, or target hold precision in Auto steering mode. The Terrain Elevation value will be displayed in reverse video when the operator slews the turret to steering coordinates issued by RCS or a Moving Map source.

  • Page 39: North Indicator

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays Terrain Sea Level LOS Mode Figure 2-12 Slant Range Measurement Modes Target Coordinates. Reports the target’s geographic location data (lat/long). The target coordinates are system calculated using the aircraft’s position and turret’s orientation to determine location. Display units can be configured by the operator.

  • Page 40: System And Sensor Status Graphics

    TM00358 Rev. A 2.2.5 System and Sensor Status Graphics The MX-15i system status information is located at the top of the video display. System status information is presented to the left side: • Date & time, steering modes, and video image optimization.

  • Page 41: Figure 2-16 Steering Mode With Zmulti Enabled

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays 22NV2006 09:45:12 UTC+0.0 Figure 2-16 Steering Mode with ZMULTI Enabled Temporal Processing. TEM will show if the Temporal processor is turned on. Temporal processing activates a temporal filter in the IR VP to reduce the temporal noise in the IR video. Temporal processing options include LOW, MEDIUM, HI or OFF and are selected from the Level 2 IR Menu.

  • Page 42: Figure 2-18 Geo-Focus Status Indicator

    Chapter 2 - Video Status Overlays TM00358 Rev. A AUTO 2000 Figure 2-18 Geo-Focus Status Indicator Note: The reported focus distance is an approximated, optical measurement. At distances beyond 1000m (3281 ft), the measurement is not accurate and no distance data is reported at infinite focus. For EON sensors, which have a very narrow depth-of-field, operators can compare the focus distance with the terrain elevation and use the offset as a relative indication for which direction to move the focus control.

  • Page 43: User Menu Navigation

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - User Menu Navigation 2.3 USER MENU NAVIGATION Menus provide access to system status information and other infrequently used operator controls. The user menus are structured in a three-level hierarchy where a main menu provides entry access to two levels of sub menus. SYSTEM STATUS LEVEL LEVEL...

  • Page 44: Figure 2-20 Typical Menu Dialog

    Chapter 2 - User Menu Navigation TM00358 Rev. A LEVEL 2 - EOW Title Bar MODE OPERATIONAL ALARMS Status Indicators 2.0 deg FOCAL LENGTH FOCUS SENSITIVITY AUTO FILTER TEMP STATUS LEVEL Value Fields SCENE SETUP DEFAULT Action Fields MISC ALARMS DONE Figure 2-20 Typical Menu Dialog Displaying the System Status Main Menu...
  • Page 45 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - User Menu Navigation Executing an Action Field 1. If the System Status main menu is not displayed, press the MENU button on the Hand Controller. 2. Click the ZOOM switch up or down to select an Action Field option.

  • Page 46: System Status Menu

    Review major operational status indicators for main turret components. • Access sub menus and other screens. • Reset the MX-15i system without removing power, and run an MX-15i System BIT. • Access to Alarms page. LEVEL 1 - SYSTEM STATUS...

  • Page 47: Table 2-5 Status Indications In The System Status Main Menu

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - System Status Menu Table 2-4 Fields in the Level 1 System Status (Main) Menu (Continued) Field Description ALARMS Displays the Alarms page with BIT test results for the entire system. SYSTEM BIT Initiates a full sequence of BITs for all system components – the same sequence executed on power up.

  • Page 48: Gimbal Menu

    Chapter 2 - Gimbal Menu TM00358 Rev. A 2.5 GIMBAL MENU The Gimbal menu provides status information and displays the current data for various environmental and turret positional parameters. LEVEL 2 - GIMBAL MODE OPERATIONAL ALARMS PROCESSOR TEMPERATURE 33 deg C HUMIDITY 16 % VOLTAGE...

  • Page 49: Eow Menu

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - EOW Menu 2.6 EOW MENU The EOW menu (electro-optic wide) provides status information and controls for the EOW imaging sensor. Operators can also access a Level 3 Miscellaneous sub menu for additional diagnostic data in the form of sensor component temperatures.
  • Page 50 Chapter 2 - EOW Menu TM00358 Rev. A Table 2-7 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 EOW Menu (Continued) Field Values Description TEMP STATUS WARMING UP / Sensor disabled because internal operational temperature is above or below COOLING limits.

  • Page 51: Ir Menu

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - IR Menu 2.7 IR MENU The IR menu (infrared) provides status information and controls for the IR sensor. Operators can use this menu to calibrate the IR camera’s focal plane array (similar function to film or digital CCD) by selecting one of 2 options: •...
  • Page 52 Chapter 2 - IR Menu TM00358 Rev. A Table 2-8 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 IR Menu (Continued) Field Values Description SCENE SETUP DEFAULT Optimizes camera for general purpose setup. Note: Initiate a 1- HIGH Optimizes camera for high-contrast scenes. Point calibration for Optimizes camera for low-contrast scenes.

  • Page 53: Eon Menu

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - EON Menu 2.8 EON MENU The EON menu (electro-optic narrow) provides status information and controls for the EON sensor. Operators can also access a Level 3 Miscellaneous sub menu for additional diagnostic data in the form of sensor component temperatures.
  • Page 54 Chapter 2 - EON Menu TM00358 Rev. A Table 2-9 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 EON Menu (Continued) Field Values Description FOCUS 150m to Infinity Focus position, expressed as an estimated distance to the object that sensor is focused upon.

  • Page 55: Video I/O Menu

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Video I/O Menu 2.9 VIDEO I/O MENU The Video I/O menu provides status information and various controls for managing video inputs and outputs. Operators would use this menu to configure the device that accepts video inputs (monitor, VTR, VCR, mapping computers) and video outputs (EOW, EON, IR).

  • Page 56: Operator Gimbal Menu

    Chapter 2 - Operator Gimbal Menu TM00358 Rev. A 2.10 OPERATOR GIMBAL MENU The Operator Gimbal menu provides status information and controls to: • Configure the sensitivity of turret movement • Setup and initiate an automated steering pattern • Eliminate steering drift with an Auto Null command To customize the control sensitivity of the Hand Controller, operators can alter the drive direction or change various steering preferences to either increase or decrease the pressure needed to cause turret movement.
  • Page 57 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Operator Gimbal Menu Table 2-11 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 Operator Gimbal Menu (Continued) Field Values Description ZOOM MULTIPLIER ON, OFF Enables or disables attenuation of steering sensitivity relative to the focal length of the Video in Control.

  • Page 58: Operator Payload Menu

    Chapter 2 - Operator Payload Menu TM00358 Rev. A 2.11 OPERATOR PAYLOAD MENU The Operator Payload menu provides controls to: • Configure the sensitivity of lens zoom, focus and filter controls • Set the initial zoom point and default filter for the lens To customize control sensitivity of the Hand Controller, operators can alter the drive action for the cameras to either increase or decrease the input needed to zoom or focus the lens.
  • Page 59 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Operator Payload Menu Table 2-12 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 Operator Payload Menu (Continued) Field Values Description INIT ZOOM Sets the startup zoom position within the focal length. INIT FILTER Various Sets the startup default lens filter.

  • Page 60: Mission Menu

    Chapter 2 - Mission Menu TM00358 Rev. A 2.12 MISSION MENU The Mission menu provides status information and controls for configuring mission data, such as date and time or setting preferences for readout units of measure. For example, the operator may prefer to have altitude measured in meters as opposed to feet.
  • Page 61 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Mission Menu Table 2-13 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 Mission Menu Field Values Description TERRAIN ALTITUDE -457 to 15 240m Action is linked to the Terrain Altitude Source setting: (1500 to 50 000 ft) •...

  • Page 62: Overlay Menus

    Chapter 2 - Overlay Menus TM00358 Rev. A 2.13 OVERLAY MENUS There is an Overlay menu for each sensor and each menu provides controls for configuring the display of various overlay components. For example, the operator may wish to disable the North indicator for some overlays, but leave it on for others.
  • Page 63 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Overlay Menus Table 2-14 Status Information and Controls in the Level 2 Overlay Menus (Continued) Field Values Description NORTH INDICATOR ON, OFF Enables or disables display of the north indicator graphic. ACTION FIELDS FACTORY DFLT –...

  • Page 64: Profiles Menu

    Chapter 2 - Profiles Menu TM00358 Rev. A 2.14 PROFILES MENU The Profiles Menu provides operators with the ability to save and retrieve specific configuration profiles, or they can restore the factory defaults. From various other menu options, operators can configure the entire system and tailor the settings to their preference or tailor options for different mission types.
  • Page 65 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Profiles Menu Restore Factory Default Settings 1. If the System Status main menu is not displayed, press the MENU button. 2. Using the ZOOM switch, move the cursor to the PROFILES option. 3. Press the MENU button. 4.

  • Page 66: Recommended Operator Mission Tasks

    Chapter 2 - Recommended Operator Mission Tasks TM00358 Rev. A 2.15 RECOMMENDED OPERATOR MISSION TASKS For typical mission flight, operators can do their tasks in 5 operational time frames: • Pre-Flight inspection of the physical condition of the turret • Pre-Takeoff check to prepare the turret for takeoff •...
  • Page 67 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 2 - Recommended Operator Mission Tasks 2. Make sure that the ON status LED on the Hand Controller is on. 3. Set all video monitor screens to on. 4. Click the FWD switch on the Hand Controller. 5.

  • Page 68: Chapter 2 - Operational Information

    Chapter 2 - Operational Information TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 69: Chapter 3 - Technical Description

    Turret......... . 54 MX-15i system.

  • Page 70: Turret

    Gimbal Elevation Rotation Gimbal (relative to Yoke) Structure Figure 3-1 MX-15i Turret 3.1.1 The turret’s lid attaches to the aircraft and contains the major electronics used to control the turret and sensors. The lid assembly contains the following components: •...

  • Page 71: Yoke

    J2 Signal Connector J1 Power Connector Figure 3-2 MX-15i Turret Lid 3.1.2 Yoke The yoke structure is an outer steerable platform that holds the gimbal between its arms. The yoke contains electro- mechanical drives and gears that steer the yoke in azimuth and the gimbal in elevation. Each steering axis also contains encoders that measure their angular position.

  • Page 72: Gimbal

    Chapter 3 - Turret TM00358 Rev. A 3.1.3 Gimbal The gimbal is the outer dome that electro-mechanically steers and stabilizes an internal sensor payload. The major functions of the gimbal are to: • Stabilize sensors • Measure the optical bench’s line-of-sight •...

  • Page 73: Payload Sensors

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors 3.2 PAYLOAD SENSORS All sensors are mounted on the optical bench. The complete assembly is called the payload, which includes the following sensors: • EOW – Daylight Wide Angle • EON – MX-Day/Night Spotter™ •...

  • Page 74: Ir Sensor

    Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors TM00358 Rev. A • For hot operation, the sensor will shutdown above 70°C and not restart until 60°C. • For cold starts below -0°C, the sensor will not operate until it has been warmed. Operator’s have the capability to control the following imaging parameters: •...
  • Page 75 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors Operator Use Because of the sensor’s thermographic imaging capabilities, its function is not restricted to daytime or night time use. Operators would utilize this sensor in any lighting conditions to: • view subjects in daylight •...

  • Page 76: Eon - Mx-Day/Night Spotter™ Sensor

    Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors TM00358 Rev. A should be performed for every 20°C (68°F) change in subject temperature or every time the scene setup is changed. Care should be exercised to select a scene with a varied range of thermal energy. For example, focusing on the sun over water may skew the calibration.

  • Page 77: Table 3-3 Eon Lens & Filter Capabilities

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors Table 3-3 EON Lens & Filter Capabilities Characteristic Capability Notes Focal Length 1000 mm Fields of View Daylight: 0.28°, Lowlight: 0.30° Focus Range 150m to Infinity Color (COL) Filter Wavelength 450-950 nm Select daylight camera channel Long Pass (LP) Filter Wavelength 450-950 nm...
  • Page 78 Chapter 3 - Payload Sensors TM00358 Rev. A Sensitivity. Controls the amount of light exposure to the camera CCD. The control is similar to the brightness control on a television or monitor. However, the system makes proportional adjustments to three parameters: •...

  • Page 79: Turret Environmental Protection

    (in relation to the external air temperature) is much higher than flight since there is no airflow. The MX-15i system includes the features that follow for environmental protection: • a stow position that prevents damage to the windows •...

  • Page 80: Figure 3-3 Turret Desiccant Breather Assembly

    Chapter 3 - Turret Environmental Protection TM00358 Rev. A Turret Humidity Indicator Desiccant Assembly Desiccant Humidity Indicator Turret Purge Valve Figure 3-3 Turret Desiccant Breather Assembly Pressure Equalization and Airflow Pathway When the aircraft descends in altitude, air goes into the turret through the desiccant drying agent material. Moisture or salt in the air is filtered out by the desiccant material.

  • Page 81: Software Features

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Software Features 3.4 SOFTWARE FEATURES 3.4.1 Interpretation of Operator Control Firmware within the system interprets input command feed as operator control functions. When no thumb pressure is applied, the slew transducer may have a significant output offset voltage. Unless compensated for, this could make manual tracking difficult with narrow fields of view.

  • Page 82: Figure 3-6 Aircraft & Target Locations

    Chapter 3 - Software Features TM00358 Rev. A Given these parameters, the Master Control CCA calculates the required turret line-of-sight pointing angles relative to the aircraft. For estimating target location, the following parameters are known: • Terrain elevation • Aircraft lat/long •...

  • Page 83: Figure 3-7 Ir Video Processing Conversion Steps

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 3 - Software Features Image Resolution Data Input Optimization Enhancement Conversion Routing Output Image Processing Video Switch Monitor Artifact Pixel Thermal Sensor 16-Bit Removal Matrix Mapping HotLink™ Video NTSC or Raw Data with Sensor Artifacts NUC Table Pixel Application Interpolation...
  • Page 84 Chapter 3 - Technical Description TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 85: Chapter 4 - Installation Instructions

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Installation Instructions Installation Instructions Chapter Contents: This chapter describes the installation and removal • Turret Shipping Cases & Storage....70 procedures for system LRUs.

  • Page 86: Turret Shipping Cases & Storage

    4.1 TURRET SHIPPING CASES & STORAGE All MX-15i turrets are provided with aluminum, impact resistant, shipping containers. These containers are specially designed for transportation and storage of the turret when not in use. The container is constructed in two halves, from riveted aluminum sheet metal, that are joined together and retained by spring-loaded latches.

  • Page 87: Table 4-1 Turret Shipping Case & Lru Packaging

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Shipping Cases & Storage Table 4-1 Turret Shipping Case & LRU Packaging Packaging Contents Part Number Qty. Notes Turret Shipping Case Shipping case 41179 • Case weighs approximately 125 kg (276 lbs) Turret 42390 Service stand assembly 42626...

  • Page 88: Turret Service Stand Installation

    For long term storage, L-3 Wescam recommends storing the turret in its impact resistant shipping case. Foam Layer Service Stand Top Plate Service Stand Legs Foam Layers Figure 4-2 MX-15i Service Stand Installation Steps October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 89: Figure 4-3 Orienting Alignment Pins

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Service Stand Installation Cap Screws (1/4-28 x 7/8) Service Stand Top Plate Alignment Pin Alignment Pin Figure 4-3 Orienting Alignment Pins WARNING: TURRET IS A HEAVY ITEM. USE ONLY APPROVED EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURES FOR UNPACKING AND LIFTING THE TURRET.
  • Page 90 Chapter 4 - Turret Service Stand Installation TM00358 Rev. A Installing the Turret into a Service Stand 1. Remove the first foam layer. 2. Remove the service stand top plate from the case. 3. Remove each of the 4 service stand legs. 4.

  • Page 91: Turret Aircraft Installation

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Aircraft Installation 4.3 TURRET AIRCRAFT INSTALLATION Installation of the turret into an aircraft requires three separate steps: • Step 1 – Inspection for corrosion • Step 2 – Surface sealant application • Step 3 – Installation and mechanical fasteners Table 4-2 Turret Installation —...

  • Page 92: Step 1 - Corrosion Inspection

    ‘ Interface Plate Figure 4-4 MX-15i Ready for Installation Unpacking the Turret Shipping Case 1. Move the turret’s shipping case to an open area with a flat surface.

  • Page 93: Step 2 - Surface Preparation And Jointing Compound Application

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Aircraft Installation 8. Make sure the turret remains in the bottom of the case until it is either installed onto a service stand or aircraft. Inspecting the Interface Plate for Corrosion 1. Clean inside and around the mounting holes using a dry cloth. 2.

  • Page 94: Step 3 - Installation And Mechanical Fastening

    Chapter 4 - Turret Aircraft Installation TM00358 Rev. A Cleaning and Applying Joint Compound 1. Pour solvent on a new, lint-free cloth. 2. Clean one small area of the aircraft’s mounting plate at a time. 3. Before the solvent evaporates, wipe the cleaned area with a second clean cloth. 4.
  • Page 95 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Aircraft Installation WARNING: TURRET IS A HEAVY ITEM. USE ONLY APPROVED EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURES FOR UNPACKING AND LIFTING THE TURRET. WARNING: SUPPLIED MOUNTING SCREWS FOR SERVICE STAND ONLY. DO NOT USE SERVICE STAND MOUNTING SCREWS FOR INSTALLING THE TURRET INTO AN AIRCRAFT.

  • Page 96: Turret Removal

    Regardless of the task, it is good practice to have the shipping case ready to hold the turret when not installed. Figure 4-8 MX-15i Turret Removal and Shipping Case Packing Table 4-5 Turret Removal — Parts...

  • Page 97: Special Handling Instructions For Damaged Turrets

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Turret Removal Table 4-6 Turret Removal — Tools Description Part Number Manufacturer Notes Socket wrench 3/8” drive – Hex socket driver 3/16” – 4.4.1 Special Handling Instructions for Damaged Turrets The IR camera’s optical lenses are coated with an anti-reflection coating that contains a small amount of Thorium Fluoride.

  • Page 98: Removing The Turret From The Aircraft

    Chapter 4 - Turret Removal TM00358 Rev. A Inspecting the Turret Shipping Case 1. Move the turret’s shipping case to an open area with a flat surface. 2. Make sure that the “This Side Up Arrow” is pointing upwards. 3. Undo the latches on the sides of the shipping case and remove the lid section. 4.

  • Page 99: Hand Controller Installation

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 4 - Hand Controller Installation 4.5 HAND CONTROLLER INSTALLATION Installing the Hand Controller 1. Pull and tag the main breaker to disable power and steering control to the turret. 2. Locate the turret’s operator interface connection. 3.
  • Page 100 Chapter 4 - Installation Instructions TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 101: Chapter 5 - Failure Diagnosis

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - Failure Diagnosis Failure Diagnosis Chapter Contents: This chapter describes steps to be followed when trying to • Built-In Tests ........86 isolate or repair system faults •...

  • Page 102: Built-In Tests

    Chapter 5 - Built-In Tests TM00358 Rev. A 5.1 BUILT-IN TESTS A Built-in Test (BIT) checks the operational state for specific system components. BIT tests are executed by the following system of operator initiated actions: • During system power-up • During system operation •...

  • Page 103: Alarms Page Bit Details

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - Built-In Tests Table 5-1 Status Indications in the System Status Main Menu Status State Description Recommended Action STARTUP Component Initializing: None. MINOR, • Some components are warmed or cooled MAJOR before they can be operated. –...

  • Page 104: Figure 5-2 Alarms Page

    Chapter 5 - Built-In Tests TM00358 Rev. A Alarm Alarm Alarm Timestamp Description Summary Error Code 18:52 MAJOR EOW #5.1 THERMAL SHUTDOWN Figure 5-2 Alarms Page October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 105: Bit Error Codes

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes 5.2 BIT ERROR CODES Every BIT test is assigned a unique numerical value in the form xx.xx. Operators should use the BIT error code tables to reference the faults code and review the recommended actions. Some failures may not be isolated by a BIT, in which case maintenance intervention is required to diagnose and isolate the fault.

  • Page 106: Gimbal Bit Codes 4.X

    Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes TM00358 Rev. A 5.2.2 Gimbal BIT Codes 4.x Table 5-3 Failure Descriptions for 4.x BIT Codes Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action Gimbal Shutdown MAJOR Gimbal motor overload. Cycle power. If failure persists No steering available. replace turret.

  • Page 107: Eow Bit Codes 5.X

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes 5.2.3 EOW BIT Codes 5.x Table 5-4 Failure Descriptions for 5.x BIT Codes Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action Thermal Shutdown MAJOR Camera/lens temperature is outside If cold, wait for built in heaters to the operating limits.

  • Page 108: Ir Bit Codes 6.X

    Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes TM00358 Rev. A Table 5-4 Failure Descriptions for 5.x BIT Codes (Continued) Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action Extender Failure MAJOR Extender servo loop of EOW sensor Execute a BIT from the Level 2 EOW not responding properly.
  • Page 109 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes Table 5-5 Failure Descriptions for 6.x BIT Codes (Continued) Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action Focus Servo Failure MAJOR Focus servo loop of IR sensor not Execute a BIT from the Level 2 IR responding properly.

  • Page 110: Eon Bit Codes 7.X

    Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes TM00358 Rev. A Table 5-5 Failure Descriptions for 6.x BIT Codes (Continued) Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action 6.17 Thermal Sensor MINOR Thermal protection sensor reading Check turret temperature in the Failure out of range. Gimbal Menu.

  • Page 111: Master Control Bit Codes 8.X

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes Table 5-6 Failure Descriptions for 7.x BIT Codes (Continued) Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action Filter Failure MAJOR The filter servo has exceeded the Execute a BIT from the Level 2 EON maximum drive voltage threshold.

  • Page 112: Gps Bit Codes 20.X

    Chapter 5 - BIT Error Codes TM00358 Rev. A Table 5-7 Failure Descriptions for 8.x BIT Codes (Continued) Message Category Failure Description Recommended Action No Video From EOW MAJOR Master control processor detected Check cable connections for bent loss of video. (no sync signal) pins.

  • Page 113: Lru Fault Diagnosis

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 5 - LRU Fault Diagnosis 5.3 LRU FAULT DIAGNOSIS Most system failures will be detected by a system or sensor BIT. However, there are some failures that might prevent the BIT from functioning and assist with determining the failure. In absence of a BIT alarm, operators should follow the Fault Diagnostic Trees for system power or video failures, and attempt to isolate and resolve the failure before contact L-3 Wescam for assistance.

  • Page 114: Figure 5-4 Fault Diagnostic Tree For Video Loss

    Chapter 5 - LRU Fault Diagnosis TM00358 Rev. A Video Display on Monitor Check Hand Video Controller Cycle Power Light ON Displays Power Status Turret Power Failure Slew Turret to Turret Forward Position Moves Refer to BIT Tables Confirm Monitor Monitor Video Replace Monitor...

  • Page 115: Chapter 6 - Maintenance Information

    • Inspecting & Cleaning Windows ....101 MX-15i system. • Turret Purging ....... . . 103 •...

  • Page 116: Maintenance Policy

    Chapter 6 - Maintenance Policy TM00358 Rev. A 6.1 MAINTENANCE POLICY L-3 Wescam’s equipment repair policy for MX Series turret is: • Customer performs as-required maintenance procedures • Customer removes and replaces all faulty LRUs • L-3 Wescam or approved L-3 Wescam service depots repair faulty LRUs General maintenance activities have no scheduled intervals or duty cycles, and customers are limited to the performing the following approved procedures: •...

  • Page 117: Inspecting & Cleaning Windows

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Inspecting & Cleaning Windows 6.2 INSPECTING & CLEANING WINDOWS Windows must be inspected prior to each flight to ensure the aircraft will be air worthy and that mission video will yield the highest quality possible. Windows must be free of any visible chips, cracks, or excessive buildup of debris. If windows require cleaning, use the approved maintenance procedure for cleaning turret windows.

  • Page 118: Table 6-2 Window Cleaning - Tools

    Chapter 6 - Inspecting & Cleaning Windows TM00358 Rev. A Table 6-1 Window Cleaning — Consumables (Continued) Description Part Number Quantity Notes Kimwipes® or clean, non-abrasive, 34120 Numerous • Kimwipes® are manufactured lint-free, and dry cloths by Kimberly-Clark: See www.kcprofessional.com. for more information.

  • Page 119: Turret Purging

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Turret Purging 6.3 TURRET PURGING To maintain a dry internal environment, all turrets must be purged when humidity exceeds safe operating limits. If a dry internal environment is not maintained there is a high risk of condensation forming on the interior of the turret. Internal condensation can cause irreparable damage to optical elements or circuit card assemblies.

  • Page 120: Figure 6-2 Purge Kit Regulator Assembly

    Chapter 6 - Turret Purging TM00358 Rev. A Air Hose Chuck Hose Pressure Tank Pressure Supply Hose Regulator Valve Extension Figure 6-2 Purge Kit Regulator Assembly WARNING: ALTHOUGH INERT, THE NITROGEN GAS YOU WILL BE HANDLING IS COMPRESSED AND THEREFORE SHOULD BE TREATED WITH THE CARE ANY COMPRESSED GAS REQUIRES. REVIEW ALL MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) TO ENSURE SAFE HANDLING.
  • Page 121 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Turret Purging 16. Connect the valve extension to the turret's purge valve. 17. Reconnect the air hose chuck to the valve extension. 18. Verify that nitrogen is flowing into the turret. Place your ear to the rear turret door and listen for pressurized flow.

  • Page 122: Purge Valve Replacement

    Chapter 6 - Purge Valve Replacement TM00358 Rev. A 6.4 PURGE VALVE REPLACEMENT The purge valve is located in the rear service door. The fitting is a Schrader valve that provides a nitrogen purge conduit to the turret’s internal space, and it is used to remove humidity and dry the inside air of moisture. Failure symptoms of the purge valve can be: •...

  • Page 123: Table 6-6 Purge Valve Replacement - Tools

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Purge Valve Replacement Table 6-6 Purge Valve Replacement — Tools Item Nomenclature Manufacturer Notes Purge valve removal socket, 13048-01 Wescam Part alternatives: ½”–5/8” • Machine down an impact socket, deep, 5/8”, 6 point to an outside diameter of 0.75”...

  • Page 124: Removing & Replacing The Desiccant Assembly

    Chapter 6 - Removing & Replacing the Desiccant Assembly TM00358 Rev. A 6.5 REMOVING & REPLACING THE DESICCANT ASSEMBLY When desiccant material in the desiccant assembly becomes saturated with water it must be replaced. The humidity indicator on the desiccant assembly will indicate the moisture level. If the upper quadrants labeled 30 & 40 are lavender (pink), the desiccant material must be replaced.

  • Page 125: Removing, Refilling And Reinstalling The Desiccant Assembly

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Removing & Replacing the Desiccant Assembly Table 6-9 Desiccant Removal — Tools Tool Size Notes Phillips® head screw driver, long shank WARNING: DANGER ZONE. THE TURRET IS REMOTELY CONTROLLED AND CAPABLE OF CONTINUOUS MOVEMENT FROM DRIVE MOTORS THAT ARE CAPABLE OF FORCES THAT CAN INJURE PERSONNEL.

  • Page 126: Table 6-11 Desiccant Refill - Tools

    Chapter 6 - Removing & Replacing the Desiccant Assembly TM00358 Rev. A Table 6-10 Desiccant Refill — Consumables (Continued) Description Part Number Manufacturer/Qty Notes Nitrile gloves – Eye goggles – Dust mask – Table 6-11 Desiccant Refill — Tools Tool Size Notes Phillips®...
  • Page 127 TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - Removing & Replacing the Desiccant Assembly 12. Pour desiccant material into the funnel and fill desiccant assembly. 13. Install the filler port and tap the canister gently to compact the material. 14. Repeat steps 8 to 12 until: •...

  • Page 128: Lru Return To Vendor Procedure

    Chapter 6 - LRU Return To Vendor Procedure TM00358 Rev. A 6.6 LRU RETURN TO VENDOR PROCEDURE All system components are designed as LRUs where repairs are limited to the removal and replacement of components only. L-3 Wescam requires that any LRU needing repair be returned to the factory or an approved service depot facility.

  • Page 129: Wescam Customer Service Contact Information

    TM00358 Rev. A Chapter 6 - LRU Return To Vendor Procedure • Brokerage Information 7. Place all shipping paperwork in the following locations: • Attach 1 copy set to the outside of the shipping container. • Place 1 copy set inside the shipping container. 8.
  • Page 130 Chapter 6 - Maintenance Information TM00358 Rev. A This Page Intentionally Left Blank October 2007 L-3 WESCAM All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 131: Appendix: Acronyms And Abbreviations

    TM00358 Rev. A Appendix: Acronyms and Abbreviations Appendix: Acronyms and Abbreviations Forward AAID Auto Aid Steering Mode ACFT Aircraft Aircraft Gigahertz Above Ground Level Global Positioning System Airborne Transport Rack Automatic Video Tracker Azimuth Hand Controller High Power Unit Built In Test BISS Basic Interoperable Scrambling IDCA...
  • Page 132 Appendix: Acronyms and Abbreviations TM00358 Rev. A Phase Alternate Line Peripheral Components Interconnected Power Conditioner PCI Mezzanine Card Part Number Pounds Per Square Inch RAID Rate Aid Remote Control Subsystem Resolution Single Board Computer SCAN Autoscan SENS Sensitivity Signal-to-Noise Ratio Short Pass Static Sensitive Devices To Be Determined...

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