KVH TracVision M3-DX: RingFire Technology

RingFire™ Technology

In much of the literature written about the TracVision M-series family you will find something alluding to RingFire technology. So what is RingFire technology and how does it improve the satellite antennas such as the TracVision M3-DX?

RingFire technology is a new proprietary technology created by KVH and is used on all the new TracVision M-series antennas. This RingFire technology is a remarkable breakthrough in antenna design.

By fusing precisely shaped, tuned parabolic dish antennas with custom-designed, dual-mode feed tubes and uniquely modified low noise blocks (LNB), RingFire technology provides unmatched illumination of the reflector resulting in signal strengths that are comparable to competitors’ larger antennas.

This means that by using the RingFire technology with the TracVision M-series you'll enjoy wider geographic coverage and better reception, even in extreme weather.

KVH TracVision M3-DX Satellite TV System Review

KVH TracVision M3-DX

If you are looking for a way to enjoy your TV practically any where on the globe then you are really going to be excited about the KVH TracVision M3-DX!

The KVH TracVision M3-DX is Versatile, high-performance, and HDTV-ready which lets you enjoy your favorite satellite TV programs from DISH Network and ExpressVu, along with programming from DIRECTV, Sky Mexico, European and regional high-powered satellite TV services from around the globe.

The KVH TracVision M3-DX is perfect for boats as small at 25 feet, and is the ultimate marine entertainment system for boaters on the go, whether you are motoring along the coast or cruising offshore. Plus, you ll never have to compromise on reception or quality because the KVH TracVision M3-DX offers the highest signal strength available along with KVH s high-efficiency 14" diameter antenna and RingFire technology for reception and coverage previously only available in 18" diameter systems!

Planning to cruise through U.S. waters? Enjoy high-definition TV (HDTV) programming and completely automatic satellite switching right from your remote control, just like home. Unsurpassed dynamic tracking with superior bluewater coverage as far as 100 to 200 miles offshore HDTV-ready design and access to 300+ channels of satellite TV programming, including news, weather, sports, movies, and commercial-free music!

Exclusive 12V Multi-service Control Box with LCD display for easy system control Enjoy programming from your favorite satellite TV services, including DISH Network, ExpressVu, DIRECTV, Sky Mexico, and more Fully automatic satellite acquisition, ultra-quiet motors, no cable wrap, and single-cable installation.

TracVision M3 Satellite TV System

TracVision M3

The powerful family of DVB -compatible, fully stabilized marine satellite TV systems, brings you digital satellite TV entertainment, including HDTV, whether you re relaxing at anchor or cruising offshore.

With more than 300 channels of digital TV programming and commercial-free, CD-quality music via regional satellite services around the globe and KVH s exclusive RingFire antenna technology for extended coverage and crystal-clear reception, even in bad weather you ll get superior performance in even the most demanding marine conditions.

The M3 is a great choice for vessels as small as 25' with a super-compact 14" design and single-cable installation. 18" antennas, dual-output LNB supports multiple receivers and TVs.

Receiver dimensions are 11" W x 8.5"D x 2.5"H Dome dimensions are 17.5" x 15.5"dia. Power: 4.5-5A @ 12V DC Receiver box included Weight: 19 lbs.

Warranty: 2-year parts/1-year labor Energy Efficiency

TracVision C3 Satellite Television Antenna

TracVision C3

The economical and completely self-contained TracVision C3 is a low-profile marine satellite TV system with integrated DVB technology. Ideal for houseboats, hardtops, and convertibles.

The TracVision C3 system automatically identifies, acquires, and tracks satellite signals from a range of DIRECTV, DISH Network, and DVB-compatible satellites. Whether your vessel is at the dock, at anchor, or on the move, TracVision C3 will bring you hundreds of channels of uninterrupted, crystal-clear digital entertainment with CD-quality sound.

The TracVision C3 system is Energy Efficiency.

Receiving Satellite TV Signals For Your KVH TracVision M3-DX

Television satellites are located in fixed positions above the Earth’s equator and beam TV signals down to certain regions of the planet (not worldwide). To receive TV signals from a satellite to yourTracVision M3-DX, you must be located within that satellite’s unique coverage area.



In addition, since TV satellites are located above the equator, the TracVision M3-DX antenna must have a clear view of the sky to receive satellite TV signals. Anything that stands between the TracVision M3-DX antenna and the satellite can block the signal, resulting in lost reception. Common causes of blockage include trees, buildings, and bridges. Heavy rain, ice, or snow might also temporarily interrupt satellite signals.



Turning the TracVision M3-DX System On/Off
Since the interface box supplies power to the antenna, you can turn the antenna on or off using the interface box Power switch.

Turning On the TracVision M3-DX System
Follow the steps below to turn on your TracVision M3-DX system.
1. Make sure the TracVision M3-DX antenna has a clear view of the sky.
2. Turn on your satellite TV receiver and TV.
3. Press the Power switch on the front of the TracVision M3-DX interface box.



4. Wait one minute for system startup.

Once the TracVision M3-DX antenna finds the correct satellite, all three status lights on the interface box should be lit green.

Turning Off the TracVision M3-DX System
Follow the steps below to turn off your TracVision M3-DX system.
1. Press the Power switch on the front of the TracVision M3-DX interface box.
2. Turn off your satellite TV receiver and TV.

Understanding the Status Screen
Following startup, the interface box displays the current system status.





Switching Satellites
If your TracVision M3-DX system is set up to track multiple satellites, you can easily switch between them. Use the switching method that applies to your particular setup. You can identify the current satellite switching method by the format of the status screen:



Automatic Switching
All operating modes provide automatic satellite switching using the primary receiver (the receiver connected to the “Unstacked Output” jack on the interface box). The TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch satellites as you change channels using the primary receiver’s remote.

NOTE: The TracVision M3-DX receiver might take up to 30 seconds to display video when changing channels, switching between satellites, and/or switching between standard-definition and high-definition channels.

NOTE: DISH Network receivers may switch to a different satellite on their own in response to a blockage condition. For example, if the TracVision M3-DX antenna’s view of the 110 satellite becomes blocked for over a minute, the TracVision M3-DX receiver may try switching to the 119 satellite. If this occurs, you will see an error message on the TV. Once the TracVision M3-DX antenna can see the selected satellite again, the receiver will automatically switch back and the error message will disappear.

How Switching Satellites Affects Additional Receivers
The TracVision M3-DX system tracks one satellite at a time. Therefore, if you switch satellites using the primary receiver, televisions connected to other receivers might display different programming, no programming, or an error message. Simply select a channel carried by the new satellite, or use the primary receiver to switch back to the original satellite. Only the primary receiver controls satellite selection.

DIRECTV Tri-Sat Auto Mode Requires Tri-Sat AutoSwitch
In Tri-Sat Auto mode, the TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch among the 101, 110, and 119 satellites as you change channels using any receiver that is equipped with a Tri-Sat AutoSwitch (receiver model H21-200 or H20-600 required).

Manual Switching
If you set up the TracVision M3-DX system to track a custom set of satellites in Manual mode, you can use the interface box to switch among them. Simply press the CHANGE button until the display shows the desired satellite. Then press ACCEPT.



Changing the Satellite Switching Mode
Unless your system is set up in Manual mode, the TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch satellites as you change channels using the receiver’s remote control. However, if you want to manually select a satellite for some reason, the interface box allows you to switch from automatic to manual switching. (You can also switch back to automatic switching using this same menu function.) Follow the steps in the flowchart below to change the satellite switching mode.



Product Care
Please consider the following TracVision M3-DX antenna care guidelines for maintaining peak performance:

• Periodically wash the exterior of the TracVision M3-DX antenna dome with fresh water and mild detergent. Avoid harsh cleansers and volatile solvents (such as acetone) and do not spray the dome directly with high-pressure water.
• If you wish to paint the dome, use only non-metallic automotive paint without a primer coat. Any paint that contains metal will block satellite signals and impair reception.

TracVision M3-DX System Overview

The TracVision M3-DX is a state-of-the-are, actively stabilized antenna system that delivers live satellite TV to your mobile audio/video entertainment system. A basic system is illustrated below.

System Components


The TracVision M3-DX system includes the following components:

• The TracVision M3-DX antenna uses integrated DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) technology to quickly acquire and track the correct satellite, switch between satellites, and send TV signals to the interface box. Internal gyros allow the antenna to track the satellite at all times, even while you’re on the move!
• The Interface box/controller supplies power to the antenna and delivers satellite TV signals to your satellite TV receiver. The interface box also allows you to set up the system using the push-buttons and LCD display.

What is DVB?

The Digital Video Broadcasting Project (DVB) is an industry-led consortium of over 270 broadcasters, manufacturers, network operators, software developers, regulatory bodies and others in over 35 countries committed to designing open technical standards for the global delivery of digital television and data services. Services using DVB standards are available on every continent with more than 220 million DVB receivers deployed.

Compatible Receivers
To ensure compatibility with the TracVision M3-DX system, KVH recommends the receiver models shown below. These receivers have all been validated by KVH to work well with the TracVision system. For information on connecting different receiver models, contact KVH Technical Support at 401-847-3327.

KVH-Validated Receivers

Standard-Definition Model

DIRECTV	D12	D11	D10
DISH Network	311
ExpressVu	3100

High-Definition (HD) Models

DIRECTV	H21	H20
DISH Network (For compatibility with a Tri-Sat AutoSwitch, use model-manufacturer ID H21-200 or H20-600)	211k	211
ExpressVu	6100

DISH Network configuration
Other than a satellite TV receiver, no additional components are necessary to receive both high-definition (HD) and standard-definition programming from three DISH network satellites: 119, 110, and either 61 or 129 (choose the third satellite for your particular region. The TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch between these three satellites as necessary as you change channels using the primary receiver’s remote.

DIRECTV Configuration
You can receive DIRECTV programming from the 101 and 119 satellites without any special equipment. All you need is a DIRECTV receiver. The TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch between these two satellites as necessary as you change channels using the primary receiver’s remote.

ExpressVu Configuration
Other than a satellite TV receiver, no additional components are needed to receive both high-definition (HD) and standard-definition programming from ExpressVu’s 91 and 82 satellites. The TracVision M3-DX antenna will automatically switch between these satellites as necessary as you change

KVH named #1 OEM Partner within the Americas for Maritime Satellite Products at First Annual Thrane & Thrane User Forum

It was announced that the producer of the TracVision M3-DX, KVH Industries was named the #1 OEM Partner within the Americas for Maritime Satellite Products. Read on for the complete details.

MIDDLETOWN, RI – For more than 10 years, KVH Industries (Nasdaq: KVHI) and Thrane & Thrane have worked together to bring the best satellite communications to mariners. The success of that collaboration was evident at the first annual Thrane & Thrane User Forum and Solutions Exhibition in New Orleans, LA, where KVH was named #1 OEM Partner within the Americas for Maritime Satellite Products.

“We at Thrane & Thrane have always recognized KVH Industries as the industry leader in the Leisure Boat Market, and it is my honor and pleasure to have presented KVH Industries with the award of being Thrane & Thrane’s #1 OEM Partner within the Americas for Maritime Satellite Products in 2008,” says Ron Lockerby, Thrane & Thrane’s director of channel management, Americas.

“KVH has always set the standards as a manufacturer and as a distribution partner for Thrane & Thrane for many years. KVH has built a very robust maritime distribution program which supports their dealer network throughout the complete sales cycle of a product to market, which has undoubtedly made KVH Industries the market leader within the leisure boat segment. I see this as only the first of many awards and recognitions for many years to come as Thrane & Thrane and KVH Industries continue to broaden and build our business as true partners in a very diverse and challenging market.”

Serving as Thrane & Thrane’s distributor in North America, KVH offers its powerful Inmarsat FleetBroadband-compatible systems under the TracPhone® FB500 and FB250 brand names. These compact, fully stabilized marine satellite communications systems offer a broadband connection at sea anywhere in the world. The compact, low-profile antennas bring lightning-fast broadband connections and simultaneous, reliable telephone service to vessels at an affordable rate. The KVH and Thrane & Thrane collaboration was enhanced recently with the announcement of a new agreement for Thrane & Thrane to begin distributing KVH’s TracPhone V7 system and mini-VSAT Broadbandsm airtime service to its customers worldwide.

“We’ve enjoyed a successful partnership with Thrane & Thrane for well over a decade, and we feel honored to receive this recognition,” says Steven J. Griffin, KVH’s commercial marine sales manager, who accepted the award. “KVH has a long history of offering the very best satellite communications systems for the marine industry, and we look forward to continuing that tradition as we grow and offer new technology and services to mariners around the world. Our newly expanded partnership with Thrane & Thrane will allow us to reach even farther, as we continue to bring Thrane & Thrane’s equipment to our customer base, and they begin to offer our mini-VSAT Broadband service through their extensive distribution channels.”
About KVH Industries, Inc.

Middletown, RI-based KVH Industries, Inc., and its wholly owned subsidiary, KVH Europe A/S, are leading providers of in-motion satellite TV and communications systems, having designed, manufactured, and sold more than 150,000 mobile satellite antennas for applications on vessels, vehicles, and aircraft. KVH’s mission is to connect mobile customers around the globe with the same digital television entertainment, communications, and Internet services that they enjoy in their homes and offices.

The KVH TracVision ultra-compact antennas are second to none in performance and reliability, proving that now you don’t have to compromise on quality to get great entertainment! So whether you’re relaxing at anchor, cruising along, or enjoying a leisurely sail, The KVH TracVision lets you bring live entertainment along for the ride!

Broadband Provided To The Persian Gulf Through Joint Ventures With KVH And ViaSat

KVH Industries, a provider of in-motion satellite TV and communications systems, announced on Tuesday (17 February) that it has expanded its mini-VSAT Broadband service to cover the Persian Gulf.

The new coverage area will provide affordable mobile Ku-band broadband connections worldwide and follows the recent rollout of service to the northern Pacific Ocean.

Crews on commercial oil and gas, shipping and government vessels in the Persian Gulf will now have access to affordable broadband Internet and crystal-clear telephone service throughout the region.

Satellite communications through KVH's rugged TracPhone V7 hardware will now be more affordable. In addition to providing service to the KVH mini-VSAT maritime system, this expansion also extends the ViaSat Yonder mobile network for in-flight broadband to business and commercial aircraft.

The mini-VSAT Broadband service, along with the KVH TracPhone V7 antenna, comprises the first end-to-end 24-inch VSAT hardware, service, and support package available for maritime communications and offers Voice over IP phone service and Internet access as fast as 512 Kbps (upload) and 2 Mbps (download) at fixed monthly rates.

The KVH TracVision ultra-compact antennas are second to none in performance and reliability, proving that now you don’t have to compromise on quality to get great entertainment! So whether you’re relaxing at anchor, cruising along, or enjoying a leisurely sail, The KVH TracVision lets you bring live entertainment along for the ride!

KVH and ViaSat Expand mini-VSAT Broadband Coverage to Persian Gulf

KVH and ViaSat's attempt to cover the globe with it's satellite coverage has just gotten larger. Now the mini-VSAT Broadband coverage is extended to the Persian Gulf.

"The addition of mini-VSAT Broadband coverage for the Persian Gulf enables us to provide more affordable broadband Internet for critical commercial and government maritime operations as well as leisure vessels in the region," explains Brent Bruun, KVH's vice president of sales and business development. "Ship operators are looking for cost effectiveness in an increasingly competitive market, and the TracPhone V7 and mini-VSAT Broadband service offer lower hardware, installation, and airtime costs than competing services in the Persian Gulf. In most cases, we can dramatically reduce a fleet's monthly airtime expenses."

KVH TracVision Reviews

How do you enjoy your favorite TV shows when you are at sea or just enjoying a nice time on your boat? It's pretty awesome what technology can give us these days isn't it! I mean, there’s only one way to enjoy home theatre-quality television wherever you operate by watching satellite television in the comfort of your own boat.

KVH TracVision, the world’s leading line of mobile satellite TV antenna systems has brought TV into our lives, like no other, while we are out at sea or just lounging on our boat at the dock.

I was searching around and ran upon this coverage map. Thought is was pretty cool so I decided to show it. So what these maps indicate is that there is a lot of satellite coverage all over the world. That's pretty cool if you if you own a satellite receiver like KVH TracVision M3. You could pick up reception just about any where you are.

Satellite Coverage around the Globe

Check Out How The New KVH TracVision M3 Satellite TV System
is Well Received by Marine Customers

Small, Simple, Powerful 14.5-inch System Ideal for Use on Boats 25-40 Feet, a Market Segment with more than 200,000 Registered Vessels in the U.S.

MIDDLETOWN, RI - February 13, 2006 - First to the mark again, KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI), brings mobile satellite TV to the largest segment of the U.S. production powerboat market - those vessels 25'-40' in length - thanks to its new KVH TracVision® M3, the world’s smallest stabilized marine satellite TV system. Until the introduction of the 14.5" diameter KVH TracVision M3, marine satellite TV antennas had either been too large to look good on smaller vessels or made significant compromises in performance in an effort to reduce antenna size, a tradeoff that limited these systems to at-anchor or coastal use. With reception comparable to larger, 18" diameter satellite TV antennas, the KVH TracVision M3, however, makes no compromises and is ideal for vessels 25'-40' in length.

According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association and Power & Motoryacht Magazine, the number of U.S. registered vessels between 25'-40' exceeds 200,000 compared to a population of less than 45,000 registered powerboats and yachts longer than 40'. And among those vessels in the 25'-40' range, more than 60% are equipped with color TVs but only 2% have satellite TV. Now shipping, the KVH TracVision M3 is already beginning to seize this market.
Customers love how the RF remote for the KVH TracVision can control the receiver from anywhere on the boat.

The KVH TracVision M3 offers everything a small boat owner needs to enjoy more than 300 channels of DIRECTV® programming, including 50+ channels of XM Satellite Radio music, when cruising along the coast and as far as 200 miles offshore. The system’s high-efficiency 14.5" antenna is contained within an impact-resistant dome 40% smaller than competing 18" antennas while offering comparable coverage, and requires only a single cable for easy installation.
The KVH TracVision M3 worked great for larger boats. Now, look out…the smaller boat market is hot. Boat owner everywhere love the new KVH TracVision M3! It’s easily the most important thing on the boat. You know if a guy’s radar goes out, he’s not that upset, but if his TV goes out, he’s screaming and yelling.”

The KVH TracVision M3 also offers additional innovations ideally suited to smaller vessels. Its powerful motors are extremely quiet, a critical factor on smaller boats where the antenna is closer to the passengers, yet are responsive enough to keep the KVH TracVision M3’s antenna locked onto the DIRECTV satellite even aboard small vessels in rough seas. Also included in the TracVision M3 package is KVH’s exclusive 12-volt satellite TV receiver for DIRECTV service, and an RF remote control that allows users to change channels even if the receiver is safely and stylishly tucked away in a cabinet or stateroom closet.

Commenting on KVH’s overall strategy, Ian Palmer, KVH’s executive vice president of satellite sales, remarked, “The TracVision M3 is an ideal example of KVH’s successful efforts to develop smaller, simpler technology that expands our sales opportunities into broader, untapped markets. Our innovative, high-efficiency design offers customers a wide array of benefits while positioning KVH as the only marine satellite TV system manufacturer capable of supporting the tremendous untapped market opportunity represented by smaller vessels. An all-in-one-box solution that is a snap to install and does not make any compromises in performance, quality, or reliability, the KVH TracVision M3 is the small, simple, and powerful solution designed specifically for the small boat owner’s needs.”

Complete details regarding the KVH TracVision are available at kvh-reviews.info.

Here's Some Information About KVH Industries, Inc.

Middletown, RI-based KVH Industries, Inc., is a leading provider of in-motion satellite TV and communication systems, having designed, manufactured, and sold more than 100,000 mobile satellite antennas for applications on boats, RVs, trucks, buses, and automobiles. Winner of the prestigious General Motors Innovative Design Award, CES Innovation Award, 21 National Marine Electronics Association “Best Product” awards, and a finalist for the Automotive News PACE Award, KVH’s mission is to connect mobile customers with the same digital television entertainment, communications, and Internet services that they enjoy in their home and offices.