Comtech RCU101 RF Frequency Converter Redundancy Controller System

RCU101 Frequency Converter Redundant Controller

The Comtech RCU101 1:1 Redundancy Controller system delivers a very simple, yet highly versatile and low-cost solution for 1:1 RF circuit protection.  One of the very unique features of the RCU101 system is the plug-and-play simplicity with which this system can be integrated. Interconnect the cables, instruct the backup converter to “learn” and the protection switch is activated. The backup converter learns the frequency and gain settings of the primary converter.

As the system controller, the designated backup converter communicates with the primary converter via the RS-485 equipment interface. Control and monitoring of the primary converter and switch can be performed through the operator RS-232/485 serial interface.

The backup monitors the setting of the primary converter. If any changes are made to the primary converter, the backup converter will notify the user via the operator serial interface and will indicate it on the front panel of the backup converter. In the event of a failure of the primary converter, the backup converter will restore the circuit with the same settings that were identified during the last learning process. The switch provides complete isolation of primary and backup converters by providing transfer switching of both the RF and IF signal paths.

An online selection switch on the front panel of the RCU101 allows the operator to specify which converter is to be online. This allows for manual backup of the primary converter for maintenance or test purposes. This allows the primary or backup converter to be removed from the circuit without disrupting traffic.