20 SUPERSTAR II User Manual Rev 3
Chapter 3 Installation
In order for the SUPERSTAR II to perform optimally, the following additional equipment is required:
• NovAtel GPS antenna
• NovAtel coaxial cable
• Regulated power supply providing +5 VDC
• A wiring harness to provide power (connected to J1) as an interface for power, communications
and signals
• Data communication equipment capable of TTL serial communications
See Appendix B, FlexPak-SSII Specifications, starting on Page 49 for a description of the type of enclosure
equipment required for the receiver to operate.
3.1 Electrostatic Discharge
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a leading cause of failure of electronic equipment components and printed
circuit boards containing ESD-sensitive devices and components. It is imperative that ESD precautions be
followed when handling or installing the SUPERSTAR II printed circuit board. See also the electrostatic
discharge notice on Page 10 of this manual.
Leave the SUPERSTAR II in its anti-static packaging when not connected in its normal operating environment.
When removing the SUPERSTAR II from the ESD-protective plastic, follow accepted standard anti-static
practices. Failure to do so may cause damage to the SUPERSTAR II.
When you remove the SUPERSTAR II from the original packing box, it is recommended that you save the box
and ESD protective plastic for future storage or shipment purposes.
REMEMBER!
• Always wear a properly grounded anti-static wrist strap when handling the SUPERSTAR II.
• Always hold the SUPERSTAR II by its corners or edges, and avoid direct contact with any of the
components.
• Do not let the SUPERSTAR II come in contact with clothing at any time because the grounding
strap cannot dissipate static charges from fabrics.
• Failure to follow accepted ESD handling practices could cause damage to the SUPERSTAR II.
• Warranty may be voided if equipment is damaged by ESD.
3.2 Equipment Interconnection
As mentioned in Chapter 1, Introduction, starting on Page 14, the receiver can be provided either as an OEM
board, or within a FlexPak-SSII enclosure. The interconnection of the OEM board format is guided by its
physical and electrical specifications as detailed in Section 3.4, Connectors and Connector Pins Assignment
starting on Page 22. A complete description of the FlexPak-SSII is provided in Appendix B, FlexPak-SSII
Specifications, starting on Page 49.
3.2.1 Serial Connection
The receiver includes two serial communication ports. COM1 and COM2 are detailed in Section 3.4.2, Serial
Data Interface starting on Page 23. Serial communication with the receiver must be performed on COM1. The
maximum data transfer rate is 19200 bps. The other serial port, COM2, is used for a differential link, and its
minimal data transfer rate is 9600 bps. Communication with COM1 and COM2 is through two Deutsch
connectors on the FlexPak-SSII.
Please refer to the L1 GPS Firmware Reference Manual for a discussion on the I/O protocol.