No. Section Description
I. EAS-1/CG Description: Gives specifications and
general information
II. Setting up the EAS-1/CG: Getting started with
installation
III. The EASETUP Program ver. 1.7: Guide through the
setup program on floppy disk
IV. EAS-1/CG Operating Display: Explains features of the
display during normal operation
V. EAS-1/CG Keypad Options: Lists the functions of the
keypad keys
VI. Sending an Alert: Explains forwarding and originating
alerts
VII. EAS-1/CG On-Screen Utility Menu: Shows
various options available in the menu
VIII. Using the EAS-1/CG Utility Menu: Explains
basic menu items and how to work with them
IX. EAS-1/CG TV/CG Setup: Explains the
character generator (SCG-1) setup
X. Station Setup in the EAS-1/CG: Guides
you through the station setup, Menu #17
XI. EAS-1/CG DTMF Telephone Interface (Optional):
Explains operation of the DTMF unit
EAS-1/CG Ver. 20.2+, HTML Version, Part One, 05-26-2000
Audio Storage: The encoder has the capability of inserting an up to two-minute audio portion of the alert message by using a microphone or playing back up to two minutes of audio stored in the internal digital audio storage unit, as well as recording and replaying another up to one-minute audio message that is normally used for a "tune-to" message. With the inclusion of the optional telephone interface, the audio portion of the two-minute alert message can be stored in the encoder from a remote location using a telephone or similar device with a DTMF telephone keypad. The keypad can be used to play back the stored audio messages for editing prior to forwarding a complete, full-blown EAS civil emergency message. The DB9 RS232 PC port can be used to compose a data message using a 1200 baud rate. Audio may be recorded either through input 6, which also will accept an amplified studio microphone, or through the front-panel speaker.
Audio Outputs: The encoder has an adjustable balanced audio output on the rear of the unit, in one of the terminal plugs, which is 600 ohms @ +8 dbm max. The DB9 PC port is a two-way data port which can be used as a data output port (RS 232, 1200 baud). The front panel keypad is used to adjust the internal digital pots which set the output level of each of the four frequencies used to generate the FSK header and dual-tone attention signal.
Header Information: When the encoder originates a message, the date, hour and minute that are derived from the internal clock are encoded in the burst of FSK as well as the identification of the originating entity.
Other Features: The programming data and stored audio messages are non-volatile and unaffected by power interruption. The front-panel 4-line, 40-character display lets the operator know what the encoder and decoder are doing at all times. The display reports sending or receiving FSK, attention signal, voice message and EOM. The front-panel speaker simultaneously presents the same audio and if the unit is installed in a room where radio traffic is generated, a microphone switch can be wired in through the rear terminal block to mute the speaker on the EAS while the microphone is being used in the radio room.
(Figure I.1)
| FCC Specification | EAS-1/CG Specification | |
| Temperature Range | 0oC to 50oC up to 95% RH | -10oC to +60oC up to 95% RH |
| Tone Frequencies | 853 Hz +/- 0.5 Hz
960 Hz +/- 0.5 Hz |
853 Hz +/- 0.1 Hz
960 Hz +/- 0.1 Hz |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | Not to exceed 5% at encoder output terminal | Exceeds specifications by at least 10
dbm each tone, over temp range
-10oC to +60oC |
| Minimum Output Level | +8 dbm into 600 ohms, each audio tone | +8 dbm into 600 ohms, each audio tone |
| Dual Tone Length | Adjustable, from 8 sec. to 25 sec. | Adjustable, from 8 sec. to 25 sec. |
| Attention Tone Indicator | Visual or aural indicator of attention signal activation | Visual and aural indication of attention signal activation |
| Supply Voltage Variation | Must comply with above specification for 85% to 115% of line voltage | Complies with above specification for 85% to 115% of line voltage |
| Operation in High RF Field | Must comply with the specification for operation in an RF field of an AM, FM and TV broadcast frequency. | Complies with the specification for operation in an RF field of an AM, FM and TV broadcast frequency |
| FSK Tone Specifications | -40 dB over temperature range of 0o C to +50o C | All frequency components outside the 200 to 4000 Hz band exceed -40 dB with respect to output levels of mark and space frequency and over temperature range of -10o C - +60o C |
Audio Inputs: The EAS-1/CG decoder section provides six audio inputs which greatly exceeds the FCC specification of two audio inputs from EAS monitoring assignments. It also has a DB9 RS232 data input port which operates at 1200 baud.
Message Handling: The unit compares the three bursts of FSK and must have the same data at each position in the header in two out of the three bursts of FSK to have a valid header. If this condition is met, the unit then checks to see if the incoming message is a duplicate of one already received, or if the message was originated by the receiving unit. Duplicate messages are printed out but cannot be forwarded. If neither of these two conditions are met, it next checks to see if the incoming message has expired. If the incoming message is still within its valid time period, the unit checks to see if the event is one of the required or preselected event codes. If this condition is satisfied, the decoder next checks to see if there is one of the programmed counties in the incoming header. If all of these conditions are met, the audio (up to two minutes in length) will be stored and this message can be forwarded.
Header Storage: The EAS-1/CG can currently store twenty preselected event and originator coded combinations, exceeding the FCC's required ten, in addition to the four mandatory code combinations of tests and national activations. Firmware has been completed and is being tested to expand the preselected table and to permit additional event codes to the be entered (in the current test version, all 32 available header codes may be programmed and stored). The header codes of the last ten received valid messages are stored for comparison with the incoming valid header codes of later messages.
Incoming Messages: Valid EAS header codes that are received are converted to a text message and displayed on the 4-line, 40-character, LED backlit display. The audio message portion of an alert is heard on the front panel speaker. The EAS-1/CG also monitors each of the audio inputs and presents a visual indication of whether or not the audio is present on each channel. Program data is preserved in case of loss of power.
Other Features: The decoder has a DB9 RS232 1200-Baud data port where received messages are available for logging. The front panel keypad can be used to monitor each decoder audio input using a built-in front-panel speaker. Decoder programming is protected from unauthorized adjustments by the requirement that four-digit code be entered on the front panel keypad.
The decoder will automatically reset after two minutes if the originator of the incoming message fails to send the EOM. Only the EAN event code can override this feature. When the EAN code is received, it will automatically override any other incoming code.
(Figure I.2)
| FCC Specification | EAS-1/CG Specification | |
| Operating Temperatures | 0oC to +50oC, up to 95% RH | -10oC to +60oC, up to 95% RH |
| Decoder Frequency Response | +/- 5.0 Hz bandwidth
853 Hz & 960 Hz |
+/- 1.5 Hz. bandwidth
853 Hz & 960 Hz |
| Reset on Message Completion | Manually or automatically mute receiver | Automatically mutes receiver |
Display Screen: 4-line, 40-character LED backlit display, displaying the following information:
--Number of audio inputs being scanned
--From which inputs active audio is being received
--Date: month/day/year
--Time: hour/minute/second/time zone
--Firmware version (20.2 most current)
--Notification if an active message is stored
--Length of any audio recorded for an active message
--Operational mode: TV/CG, Cable SSC, Cable, Manual, or Automatic
--During incoming message: The display sequentially presents messages indicating incoming
. header FSK, incoming attention tone (ATT), incoming audio, and incoming EOM FSK.
--During outgoing (originated or forwarded) message: The display sequentially presents messages
indicating outgoing header FSK, outgoing attention tone (ATT), outgoing audio, and
. outgoing EOM FSK.
Keypad: RFI- and ESD-protected, shielded, 20-key flat keypad
--Embedded numeric keypad as additional function for included keys
--Gives full operational capability from the front panel
--Allows setting of levels for tone modulation, input audio levels, panel speaker audio level,
. attention tone duration, and other variables
Speaker plays:
--Incoming FSK, attention signal (ATT), audio message, and EOM tone
--Outgoing FSK, attention signal (ATT), audio message, and EOM tone
--Audio input of selected station being monitored, if desired
--Audio stored in the digital storage chips, if desired
13-14 Audio Out - 600 Ohm Selection: Balanced 600 ohm continuous audio output from an operator selected monitor input channel #1 - #6.
15-16 Audio Out - 8 Ohm Selection: Balanced 8 ohm continuous audio output from an operator selected monitor input channel #1 - #6. This will be the same audio as on 13-14.
17-18 Audio Out - 600 Ohm Alert: Balanced 600 ohm audio output from the channel carrying the alert message. This output is gated on when the alert takes place.
19-22*Control Out - Alert: Two contact closure outputs can be used to signal remote control equipment, automation equipment or to activate a remote bell or lamp. If one of the contact closures goes to automation, do not put any other circuits on this set of contacts. This relay energizes for 1 second when an incoming message EOM is completed.
23-24 Console Muting: These terminals allow console muting of the panel speaker when the unit is installed in an on-air room
25-32 Audio IN/OUT - Program A/B: Eight terminals for balanced 600 ohm stereo program audio lines. Via these inputs and outputs, the encoder interrupts the program audio to insert the alert message.
33-34*Control Out - Send Alert: Contact closure which can complete the circuit for an external relay coil for a coaxial relay during the time the encoder is sending an alert signal. This will allow a low impedance (600 ohm) coaxial alert feed directly into a transmitter exciter circuit, thus bypassing all audio processing. It can also be used to energize an external relay to interrupt the program audio on an AM transmitter.
35-36*Control Out - EAS Complete: One-second contact closure output to signal automation equipment that the EAS interruption is completed.
37-38 Control In - Delete Audio: Momentary contact closure input for deleting the 853/960 attention signal and the audio message portion of a received alert message. The encoder will send only the FSK (frequency shift keying) header and EOM (end of message) portions. The momentary contact closure would be supplied by remote switch or remote control equipment contacts. This function only works in Broadcast mode, and is not applicable to TV/CG mode.
39-40 Control In - Send Alert: Momentary contact closure input to tell encoder to send a stored alert message now.
41-42 Control In - Manual: Momentary contact closure input to switch the encoder from automatic to manual control. You must wait for a 5 second delay, if you want to toggle back and forth.
43-44 Control In - EOM : Momentary contact closure input to remotely send EOM FSK (end of message).
45-46 Control In - RWT: Momentary contact closure input to remotely send RWT (required weekly test; FSK header code and EOM)
47-48 Control In - RMT: Momentary contact closure input to remotely send RMT (required monthly test; FSK header and dual tones)
49-50 Data In/Out - RS485: Serial data option for future remote control equipment.
51-52 Spare terminals: Can be used to supply battery backup power to the unit.
2. We strongly recommend placing the EAS-1/CG on an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The printer and the receivers used to monitor the National Weather Service and/or broadcast stations should also be plugged into this.
3. When installing the printer, be sure to use an IEEE shielded parallel printer cable. Also, we strongly recommend finding a used dot-matrix printer with a normal-width capacity. In our experience, these work better than laser or inkjet printers.
4. Input audio should always be connected to the lower-numbered input channels (terminals 1-12). However, if there is an input from the National Weather Service, it should be connected to input channel 3 (terminals 5-6). Studio microphones should be routed to input 6 (terminals 11-12), and must go through an amplifier.
5. Once the audio inputs are connected, it's essential to set the input levels. Instructions for doing this are to be found in Section VIII, item 3.
6. Once the program audio lines are looped through the unit, it's essential to set the modulation, using the outgoing program line. The 853 and 960 tones should be set at forty percent, while the 1560 and 2083 tones should be set at eighty percent. Instructions for doing this are to be found in Section VIII, item 2.
7. A sign board in the "on-air" studio is a good idea if the EAS-II equipment is installed in another room. Warning messages will be scrolled in RED, watches in YELLOW, and required tests in GREEN. If you are using a sign board, Utility Menu option 11 should say "TOGGLE SIGN OFF" and if you are not using a sign board, it should say "TOGGLE SIGN ON." Pressing <ENTER> changes this from one to the other.
8. When the unit operates in any mode other than MANUAL, incoming header codes targeted for one of the counties in the listening area trigger two sets of relay contacts. These close for one second upon completion of the three bursts of FSK EOM (terminals 19 & 20 and 21 & 22). This contact closure can be used to turn on a bell or light, or signal remote control or automation equipment. Some locations operate in manual twenty-four hours and do not interface with automation, but would like to have a contact closure under the above circumstances to call attention to the incoming message. If Utility Menu option 12 reads "TOGGLE ALERT OFF," the contacts will close in manual, also.
9. If the station is an LP1 or and LP2, the required monthly test that you originate should have a valid time period of one hour. All other stations that originate an RMT should use a valid time period of 15 minutes.
10. Be sure to go through the other sections of this manual, especially Section VIII: Using the EAS-1/CG Utility Menu. We strongly recommend going through this section, step by step, to better familiarize yourself with the system. If you need to change any programming for your location, then be sure to read Section X: Station Setup.
The EAS-1/CG has full built-in programming capability, and does not need this program for any setup. However, we do include this program with all new units, because it a) Contains backup program files, and b) Programming through EASETUP is much quicker than programming through the keypad.
The EAS Setup Program, EASETUP.EXE, is designed to run on any IBM PC or clone using serial port COM1, PC SERIAL PORT. The program runs as a DOS application on a PC using any version of DOS from 3.1 and up, or in Windows or Windows95/98 in DOS mode. We suggest that you create a desktop icon and edit the properties to specify full-screen usage, with "Close on Exit."
A serial cable with a male DB9 on one end and female DB9 on the other end may be used to connect the male DB9 on the PC port to the female DB9 on the Encoder/Decoder computer port. When the Encoder/Decoder detects the proper code sequences from the PC, it will receive a packet of setup information from the PC and store it in non-volatile memory. The setup program allows the operator to select the desired setup information from menus before downloading it to the Encoder/Decoder.
To operate properly, the setup program requires the transmitted data to be echoed back by the encoder/decoder. However, the program can be used without connection to the encoder/decoder, if a loopback connector is connected to the PC COM port. Loopback connectors can be purchased from PC supply stores, loopback connectors are often supplied with PC diagnostic programs such as Norton Utilities, or they may be fabricated from a female DB9 connector by connecting the following conductors together: 1-4-6-9, 2-3, 7-8. Pin 5 is not connected.
This program is used by Gorman-Redlich to set up an Encoder/Decoder with the information supplied by the customer on the programming form. The unit is ready for operation when received by the customer. The setup information is supplied to the customer on a floppy disk so that the program may be used later by the customer to change or update the setup information.
The simplest, although probably not the best, form of operation is to run the program directly from the floppy disk. In this case, insert the diskette into floppy drive A: or B:. Before running directly from the diskette, make a backup copy of the distribution diskette using the DOS copy command. At the DOS prompt, type A: or B: to correspond to the floppy drive containing the diskette. The DOS prompt will then show A:> or B:>corresponding to your selection. At that point type EASETUP and <ENTER> (press the ENTERkey), and the EASETUP.EXE program will start.
This form of operation is the only option for older computers with no hard drive. If a hard drive is available, much faster operation can be obtained by installing the program on the hard drive. Another advantage is that the data on the floppy drive is protected from unintended change when working from the hard drive. The installation is very simple. On a non-Windows system, at the DOS prompt for the hard drive (usually C:>), make a directory for the program and associated files. If the directory name is to be EAS-II, the following command: "MD EAS-1/CG <ENTER> will make the directory. The command "CD EAS-1/CG <ENTER>" (or whatever name was used) will select the new directory. The command "COPY A:*.*<ENTER>" or "COPY B:*.* <ENTER>" (depending on whether the diskette is in floppy drive A: or B:) will copy the contents of the diskette to the hard drive. The copy is the extent of the hard drive installation. The program may be executed at any time by going to the directory ("CD EAS1 <ENTER>") and typing "EASETUP <ENTER>".
The files which are sent on the diskette are:
(Figure III.1)
EASETUP.EXE The executable program file.
CTY.DEF List of all states & counties and corresponding FIPS codes.
EVENT.DEF A list of all EAS 3 letter event codes and text description
of each.
ORG.DEF A list of the 5 EAS 3-letter originator codes and a text
description of each.
EAS.INI Station Setup Information and PC Installation Information.
CTY.SEL Counties selected in the station's listening area.
RPSH.SEL Required preselected header codes selected for the station.
OPSH.SEL Optional preselected header codes selected for the station.
The .DEF files are definition files that do not change with user setup. These files must be updated as this information changes or expands. The .INI and .SEL files contain data that is selected for the station or PC. These files will change as the setup changes.
When the EAS setup software is started the first time on the PC, run Utility Menu item 6 to enter the PC installation data. This will select the serial port to be used to download to the encoder/decoder, and it will select time zone information for the PC. It should be necessary to enter this information only once after the installation.
The setup program allows selection and downloading of the following information:
The program keeps a copy of your setup on a disk file so that the next time you run the program, you begin with your last setup. This makes it easy to quickly make minor changes to the setup.
(Figure III.2)
Gorman-Redlich EAS1 Encoder/Decoder PC Setup Program
Version 1.7, March 10, 2000
Copyright 1997
Gorman-Redlich Manufacturing Company
257 West Union Street
Athens, OH 45701
Voice: 740-593-3150
Fax: 740-592-3898
Email: jimg@gorman-redlich.com
Web: www.gorman-redlich.com
Press any key to continue. . .
After pressing any key on the computer keyboard, you will next see this menu:
(Figure III.3)
MAIN MENU
Select Desired Setup Operations
NUMBER keys - Type the number of the desired menu operation
q key - Exit EASetup Program to DOS/Windows when finished
1 Enter Encoder/Decoder Setup Information
2 Send the data over the RS232 port
3 Reserved for future expansion
4 Reserved for future expansion
5 Set the Encoder/Decoder Time to the PC Time
6 Enter PC installation data
Type the number or letter of the menu item to select it
(Figure III.4)
STATION SETUP
Enter Call Letters, Operator password, Technician password
Select State Primary and Station Time Zone/Daylight Time
ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired parameter
ENTER key - Make the desired selection
q key - Exit screen after selection
WOUB/FM - Station Call Letters
1234 - Operator Password
2345 - Technician Password
Station is not a State Primary
Eastern Time Zone
Station goes on Daylight Time in April
EAS - Broadcast station or cable system
Station Operator Password - A 4-digit password to allow an operator to compose an alert or send an alert. The password can contain only digits from 0-9. All 4 digits must be entered. In case of a mistake, repeat the process.
Station Technician Password - A 4 digit password to allow a technician to set modulation levels and change other setup information on the encoder decoder. This password can be made the same as the operator password if only one password is desired. The password can contain only digits from 0-9. All 4 digits must be entered. In case of a mistake, repeat the process.
Station State Primary - Striking the <ENTER> key with the cursor beside the state primary field will toggle the selection between either "Station is a state primary" or "Station is not a state primary". Leave the entry field when the correct display is showing.
Station Time Zone - Striking the <ENTER> key with the cursor beside the time zone field will sequentially display each of the following time zones: Atlantic, Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, Alaska, and Hawaii. Leave the entry field when the correct display is showing.
Station Daylight Time - Striking the <ENTER> key with the cursor beside the daylight time field will toggle the selection between either "Station goes on Daylight Time in April" or "Station does not go on Daylight Time in April". Leave the entry field when the correct display is showing.
Station Originator Code - Striking the <ENTER> key with the cursor beside the originator field will sequentially display each of the following originator codes: EAN, PEP, WXR, CIV, and EAS. Leave the entry field when the correct display is showing.
Selecting Counties in the Station's Listening Area - After the station information is entered, the county codes must be selected. Up to 31 counties in up to eight states may be entered. The state selection screen will appear to show what states are presently selected as in the following example:
(Figure III.5)
COUNTY/STATE SELECTION
Select Counties in Listening Area from up to 6 States
ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection
ENTER key - Make the desired selection
DELETE key - Remove the state the cursor is on
q key - Exit screen after selection
Display current selected states and counties
Add a new state
Edit OH
Edit WV
1) display the currently selected counties and associated state,
2) add a new state and selected counties from it,
3) edit (add or delete counties) for any of the currently selected states.
4) delete the state and all its county selections.
The cursor will initially appear on the line with Display current selected states and counties. The cursor may be moved up or down to the other lines to make selections. Once the cursor is positioned on the line for the desired operation, the <ENTER> key is pressed to make the selection. In the case of the "Edit" lines, the <DELETE> key may be pressed to delete the state and its selected counties. Whenever the state and county selections are satisfactory, pressing the "Q" key will exit the county selection screen.
When the first item is selected, county codes previously selected are displayed on the screen. This screen may be exited back to the state selection screen by pressing any key. By using this function, it is easy to determine whether the selections are satisfactory. If so, the county selection function may be exited with the "Q" key. The following screen is an example of this display:
(Figure III.6)
From OH: 009 Athens 045 Fairfield 049 Franklin 053 Gallia 073 Hocking 079 Jackson 089 Licking 105 Meigs 167 Washington From WV: 106 Wirt 107 Wood Press any key to continue...
(Figure III.7)
Choose from OH. Use arrows, pg-up/down, <ENT> to select, q to quit ******************************************************************************** * 001 Adams 023 Clark >045 Fairfield 067 Harrison * * 003 Allen 025 Clermont 047 Fayette 069 Henry * * 005 Ashland 027 Clinton >049 Franklin 071 Highland * * 007 Ashtabula 029 Columbiana 051 Fulton >073 Hocking * * > 009 Athens 031 Coshocton >053 Gallia 075 Holmes * * 011 Auglaize 033 Crawford 055 Geauga 077 Huron * * 013 Belmont 035 Cuyahoga 057 Greene >079 Jackson * * 015 Brown 037 Darke 059 Guernsey 081 Jefferson * * 017 Butler 039 Defiance 061 Hamilton 083 Knox * * 019 Carroll 041 Delaware 063 Hancock 085 Lake * * 021 Champaign 043 Erie 065 Hardin 087 Lawrence * ******************************************************************************** Counties Currently Selected 1 Athens OH 2 Fairfield OH 3 Franklin OH 4 Gallia OH 5 Hocking OH 6 Jackson OH 7 Wirt WV 8 Wood WV 9 Entire State OH 8 Counties selected from 2 States
When the county selection screen is entered, the first 44 counties for that state will be displayed in alphabetical order. These counties may be selected or de-selected by moving the cursor with the arrow keys to a county and pressing the <ENTER> key. When a county is selected, it will have a >> symbol beside it, and it will be included in the selected county list that is being built in the bottom portion of the screen. If a county is mistakenly selected, simply move the cursor to the county again, press enter, and the >> symbol will disappear, and it will be removed from the list. Counties for that state beyond the 44 shown on the display, may be accessed by the use of the page up and page down keys. The selected county list at the bottom of the screen shows all counties currently selected along with their state abbreviations. In addition, the prompt at the bottom reports the number of counties and states currently selected.
When all desired counties have been selected, press the "Q" key on the PC to exit back to the state selection screen. The second item, Display current selected states and counties, may again be selected to review the county selections. The process of adding or editing states and counties and reviewing selections is continued until the selections are satisfactory, and then the state selection screen is exited by the "Q" key.
Entering County of License - Upon exiting the selection of counties in the station's listening area, it is possible to enter the county of license. Since the county of license must be one of the counties in the listening area, this selection must come after selecting the counties in the listening area. The selection screen will appear as follows:
(Figure III.8)
COUNTY OF LICENSE Select the State and County of License ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection ENTER key - Make the desired selection q key - Exit screen after selection > 1 Athens OH 2 Hocking OH 3 Meigs OH 4 Morgan OH 5 Vinton OH 6 Washington OH 7 Wirt WV 8 Wood WV
Select the county of license in the same manner as the counties in the listening area were selected - by moving the cursor to the desired county and pressing <ENTER>. The software will allow only one county to be selected, but one must be selected before exit. When the desired county has been selected, exit this screen by pressing the "Q" key.
Entering Counties for Required Monthly Tests - Upon exiting the selection of counties in the station's listening area, it is possible to enter the counties to be sent with an outgoing, and checked for an incoming, required monthly test. Since these counties must be among the counties in the listening area, this selection must come after selecting the counties in the listening area. The selection screen will appear as follows:
(Figure III.9)
REQUIRED MONTHLY TEST COUNTIES ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection ENTER key - Make the desired selection a key - Select all counties q key - Exit screen after selection > 1 Athens OH> 2 Hocking OH> 3 Meigs OH> 4 Morgan OH > 5 Vinton OH> 6 Washington OH 7 Wirt WV 8 Wood WV Programming tip ... Select only as many counties as necessary. One second air time is required for every 3 counties.
Any counties previously selected to go out with an RMT will be indicated with the >. If the counties in the listening area have been changed since the last RMT counties selection, make sure that the counties indicated are the ones that you want. If counties in the listening area have been changed, RMT county selections revert to the default which is all counties selected. Select or deselect these counties in the same manner as the counties in the listening area were selected - by moving the cursor to the desired county and pressing <ENTER>. When the desired counties have been selected, exit this screen by pressing the "Q" key.
The required monthly test counties can include any up to all of the counties in the listening area. At least one location must be selected in order that a valid RMT header will be sent. If it is attempted to deselect all locations, the county of license will be automatically selected.
In addition to the individual counties, there is a code available for the entire state of the county of license (in this example, Oklahoma). If this selection is made, the decoder will respond to the code for all counties in the state of license. However, the encoder will not include that code with the list of counties in an outgoing header. To use that code in an outgoing RMT header, the header must be composed rather than using the RMT key.
Entering Counties for Required Weekly Tests - Upon exiting the selection of counties for the required monthly test, it is possible to enter the counties to be sent with an outgoing required weekly test. Since these counties must be among the counties in the listening area, this selection must come after selecting the counties in the listening area. The selection screen will appear as follows:
(Figure III.10)
REQUIRED WEEKLY TEST COUNTIES ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection ENTER key - Make the desired selection a key - Select all counties q key - Exit screen after selection > 1 Athens OH 2 Hocking OH 3 Meigs OH 4 Morgan OH 5 Vinton OH 6 Washington OH 7 Wirt WV 8 Wood WV Programming tip ... Select only as many counties as necessary. One second air time is required for every 3 counties.
The required weekly test counties can include any up to all of the counties in the listening area. At least one location must be selected in order that a valid RWT header will be sent. If it is attempted to deselect all locations, the county of license will be automatically selected.
Editing Pre-selected Header Codes - The four mandatory pre-selected header codes for EAN, EAT, RWT, and RMT, are preformatted, except for the county selection which you have just completed, and do not need to be edited in this step.
All the 28 optional header codes are available in this version of the EASETUP program. Each of the optional header codes contains three parts:
. 1) Event
. 2) Priority
. 3) Counties in the station's listening area which are affected.
Initially, the optional header codes are summarized in the main optional header code screens. The first 10 preselected header codes are shown initially. By pressing the <PAGE DOWN> key, the next 10 will be shown; pressing the <PAGE DOWN> key again brings you to the last eight. Pressing the <PAGE UP> key will return to the previous grouping. An example of this screen is as follows:
(Figure III.11)
OPTIONAL PRESELECTED HEADER CODES Select up to 28 Optional Preselected Header Codes PAGE keys - Switch to another 10 preselected header codes ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection ENTER key - Make the desired selection DELETE key - Delete a selection a key - Select all counties + entire state for selected events q key - Exit screen after selection Entry Event Priority Counties 1 ADR Administrative Message Event deselected None 2 BZW Blizzard Warning Send this alert immediately All 3 CEM Civil Emergency Message Send this alert immediately All 4 DMO Demonstration Message Event deselected None 5 EVI Immediate Evacuation Send this alert immediately All 6 FFA Flash Flood Watch Send this alert immediately All 7 FFS Flash Flood Statement Send this alert immediately All 8 FFW Flash Flood Warning Send this alert immediately All 9 FLA Flood Watch Send this alert immediately All 10 FLS Flood Statement Send this alert immediately All
(Figure III.12)
Group Two:
11 FLW Flood Warning Send this alert immediately All 12 HLS Hurricane Statement Send this alert immediately All 13 HUA Hurricane Watch Send this alert immediately All 14 HUW Hurricane Warning Send this alert immediately All 15 HWA High Wind Watch Send this alert immediately All 16 HWW High Wind Warning Send this alert immediately All 17 NIC National Information Center Send this alert immediately All 18 NPT National Periodic Test Send this alert immediately All 19 SPS Special Weather Statement Send this alert immediately All 20 SVA Severe Thunderstorm Watch Send this alert immediately All Group Three: 21 SVR Severe Thunderstorm Warning Send this alert immediately All 22 SVS Severe Weather Statement Send this alert immediately All 23 TOA Tornado Watch Send this alert immediately All 24 TOR Tornado Warning Send this alert immediately All 25 TSA Tsunami Watch Send this alert immediately All 26 TSW Tsunami Warning Send this alert immediately All 27 WSA Winter Storm Watch Send this alert immediately All 28 WSW Winter Storm Warning Send this alert immediately All
By pressing the <\/> and </\>keys the cursor may be moved to any event. If you wish to deselect an event, then the next step is to press the <DELETE> key on the computer keyboard. The message Event deselected will appear. Pressing <ENTER> begins editing that event, if selected, and will also re-select the event if already deselected. First, the cursor will move to the Priority field. Use the <\/> and </\> keys on the keyboard to toggle between priority settings. You will go through the settings in this order:
Never send this alert --> Send this alert immediately --> Send this alert in 5 minutes --> Send this alert in 10 minutes --> Send this alert in 15 minutes
Pressing <ENTER> again will bring you to the county selection field, and you will see a new display on the computer screen, similar to the following:
(Figure III.13)
COUNTIES FOR PRESELECTED HEADER # 1 ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired selection ENTER key - Make the desired selection a key - Select all counties q key - Exit screen after selection > 1 Athens OH> 2 Fairfield OH> 3 Franklin OH> 4 Gallia OH > 5 Hocking OH> 6 Jackson OH> 7 Licking OH> 8 Meigs OH > 9 Washington OH> 10 Wirt WV> 20 Wood WV
When all entries are completed, press <Q> in the main optional header code screen to exit the optional header code entry section and return to the main menu screen. The Encoder/Decoder Setup Information entry is now complete. It may be reviewed and/or changed by again entering main menu item 1.
(Figure III.14)
SCAN:6ACTIVE:123456 7/08/99 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Download Setup
ENCODER: Ready
TV/CG
When the transfer is complete, the screen returns to the main menu display.
There are two types of data errors that may occur during attempts to download to the Encoder/Decoder - timeout errors and echoed data errors. Each character that is transmitted to the encoder/decoder from the PC is echoed back to the PC by the encoder/decoder. The EASETUP program then compares the echoed character to the original character, and it reports an error if they are different. A timeout error occurs when the PC waits longer than a few seconds for the echoed character from the PC. When either error occurs, the download is aborted, and the software returns to the Main Menu. Once the cause of the error is found and the error cleared, the download may be attempted again. Typical causes for the errors are: RS232 cable not connected, encoder/decoder not powered up, encoder/decoder not in main display (ie: in some menu function or otherwise busy), and PC set to wrong COM port. If no problem is found, re-boot the encoder/decoder, and try again.
Items 3 and 4 are for future expansion, and contain nothing at this time.
(Figure III.15)
SET EAS1 DATE/TIME
Download the Correct Local and UCT Date & Time based on the PC Clock
ENTER key - Download time to Encoder/Decoder
q key - Exit screen after selection
Current PC Date and Time
EST: 12/12/96 19:13:00
UCT: 12/13/96 00:13:00
(Figure III.16)
| UCT less | Atlantic | Eastern | Central | Mountain | Pacific | Alaska | Hawai'i |
| Standard | AST -4 | EST -5 | CST -6 | MST -7 | PST -8 | AST -9 | HST -10 |
| Daylight | ADT -3 | EDT -4 | CDT -5 | MDT -6 | PDT -7 | ADT -8 | N/A* |
*Hawai'i does not go on daylight saving time.
If the PC clock contains the correct local time, and the correct PC time zone and daylight time information has been entered (see next section), then the UCT time will be correct. The PC local time may be corrected using the standard DOS and/or Windows time setting functions. If on the date that the time change occurs, your PC does not change the time automatically, then you must do this manually. However, if this is done and the PC is reading the correct local time, the program will display these two times correctly.
Insure that the Encoder/Decoder is powered up and in the normal display with the Decoder: Scanning and the Encoder: Ready (ie: not in a setup menu, processing an alert, sending a message, etc.) and the RS232 cable is connected from the computer port of the Encoder/Decoder to the correct PC COM port. By pressing <ENTER>, the UCT time will be downloaded to the Encoder/Decoder. If the Encoder/Decoder has been given the correct station time zone and daylight time information, then the encoder decoder will display the correct local time after this download.
There are two types of data errors that may occur during attempts to download to the encoder/decoder - timeout errors and echoed data errors. Each character that is transmitted to the Encoder/Decoder from the PC is echoed back to the PC by the Encoder/Decoder. The EASETUP program then compares the echoed character to the original character, and it reports an error if they are different. A timeout error occurs when the PC waits longer than a few seconds for the echoed character from the PC. When either error occurs, the download is aborted, and the software returns to the Main Menu. Once the cause of the error is found and the error cleared, the download may be attempted again. Typical causes for the errors are: RS232 cable not connected, Encoder/Decoder not powered up, Encoder/Decoder not in main display (ie: in some menu function or otherwise busy), and PC set to wrong COM port. If no problem is found, re-boot the Encoder/Decoder, and try again.
The time zone for the PC, and whether the PC time zone changes to daylight time in April, must be entered for the downloaded times to be correct. Note that the information is not asking whether the PC is currently on daylight time. It only needs to know whether the PC ever goes on daylight time. Given this information, it can check as to when it needs to be on daylight time.
The following is an example of the installation screen:
(Figure III.17)
PC SETUP
Select PC COM Port, PC Time Zone Daylight Time
ARROW keys - Position cursor on desired parameter
ENTER key - Make the desired selection
q key - Exit screen after selection
COM1 is the selected PC COM port
Eastern Time Zone
PC goes on Daylight Time in April
A normal operating screen is as shown in Figure IV.1:
(Figure IV.1)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
TV/CG
On the first line of the display, the number just to the right of SCAN: is the total number of inputs that are being scanned (here, 3 inputs), looking for the FSK preamble signal, AB AB. The digits to the right of ACTIVE: show which input channels are actively receiving broadcast signals. For example, if the source of audio connected to the third input momentarily is lost (possibly just a long pause in programming), the digit 3 will disappear, and the top line will only read SCAN:3ACTIVE:12. as shown below in Figure IV.2:
(Figure IV.2)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:12 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
TV/CG
The first two figures show the display with the TV/CG message in the lower right-hand corner, which is the normal operating mode for the EAS-1/CG. However, the unit can operate in other modes. When the unit is in regular ("PSC") Cable mode, the front screen will show it as follows:
(Figure IV.3)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
Cable
When the unit is in Cable SSC ("Small-System Cable") mode, the front screen will read:
(Figure IV.4)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
Cable SSC
When none of these three modes is turned on, then the screen will look like one of the two following examples, which are both referred to as Broadcast mode:
(Figure IV.5)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
Automatic
Or:
(Figure IV.6)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready
Manual
Automatic operation means that the EAS-1/CG will automatically forward incoming messages as specified by the programming. This is an option in broadcast mode, and required when in Cable, Cable SSC, or TV/CG mode. In Broadcast mode, the unit may also be switched to Manual, where all messages must be forwarded by the operator by pressing the red <SEND STORED ALERT> key before the message valid time expires. To toggle between Manual and Automatic when in Broadcast mode, press the <6> key on the keypad, which is also the <MANUAL/AUTOMATIC> key. Whenever this key is pressed in Broadcast mode, the change either way will be logged with a time stamp, including seconds.
(Figure IV.7)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready * PRINTER UNKNOWN ERROR*
Automatic
The third mode is PRINTER NOT CONNECTED, which occurs when PRINTER is not selected for logging (menu item 7), or when PRINTER is selected but no cable is connected, or when there is no functioning data connection between the EAS-1/CG and the printer for some other reason.
(Figure IV.8)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready * PRINTER NOT CONNECTED*
Automatic
And the fourth mode is PRINTER OUT OF PAPER, which is self-explanatory:
(Figure IV.9)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Ready * PRINTER OUT OF PAPER *
Automatic
(Figure V.1)
| 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 7 | 8 | 9 |
| 0 |
The full keypad layout is as follows (the first row is lettered in red to represent the red background color in this row):
(Figure V.2)
| RWT 1 ABC |
RMT 2 DEF |
EOM 3 GHI |
SEND STORED ALERT |
SEND COMPOSED HEADER |
| FUNCTION
4 |
DELETE AUDIO 5 MNO |
MANUAL AUTO 6 PQR |
COMPOSE
HEADER |
DISPLAY COMPOSED HEADER |
| MENU 7 |
SELECT INPUT 8 VWX |
RECORD SPEECH 9 YZ/ |
PLAY- BACK SPEECH |
DISPLAY RECEIVED HEADER |
| CLEAR | EXIT 0 -[] |
ENTER |
Each of these keys has one or more secondary functions, which are described in the following sections:
First Row
The top (first) row is colored red, and contains the keys for sending EAS messages. From left to
right, these are:
<RWT>: Send Required Weekly Test: Just press this key once and a complete weekly test is automatically generated.
<RMT>: Send Required Monthly Test: Pressing this key generates the three FSK header bursts, followed by the attention tone, and then opens the channel for audio output, either from a microphone or previously recorded. When the audio message is finished, EOM must be pressed to complete the test.
<EOM>: Send End of Message: When the EOM key is pushed, three bursts of FSK for EOM are transmitted.
<SEND STORED ALERT>: Forward a received alert: Pressing the key once forwards the complete stored message.
<SEND COMPOSED HEADER>: Originate an alert: This key, when pressed, acts like the <RMT> key but sends the composed header rather than RMT. After the three FSK bursts and the attention tone, the unit again outputs audio, either from a studio mike or pre-recorded. Again, when the audio message is finished, EOM must be pressed to complete the test. See <COMPOSE HEADER>, below, for this procedure.
In broadcast mode, the operator password must be entered in order to use
<RMT> and <SEND
COMPOSED HEADER> from the keypad. If a remote momentary switch in the control room
is
used, the password is not required. In cable mode, the password is also required for
<RWT>.
<DELETE AUDIO>: This option enables you to send an alert without the pre-recorded audio, by sending it either without any audio or by sending it with audio generated in your own studio. This function only works in Broadcast mode, and is not applicable to TV/CG mode.
<MANUAL/AUTOMATIC>: This key toggles between Manual and Automatic operation when in Broadcast mode. This is shown in the lower right-hand corner of the display. If the unit is in normal cable mode, then the screen reads Cable and the unit is in automatic mode. If the unit is in SSC mode, then the screen reads Cable SSC and the unit is in automatic. If the unit is in TV/CG mode, then the screen reads TV/CG and the unit is in automatic.
<COMPOSE HEADER>: This allows the operator to prepare an alert for transmission or to practice with message origination. This alert will be an originated alert, as opposed to a forwarded alert. When this key is pressed, the list of available headers appears on the display.
<DISPLAY COMPOSED HEADER>: This allows the operator to check the message that was prepared for origination. By using the <\/>, the complete message can be edited and any necessary corrections can be made prior to transmission. This entire message should also appear on the printed log when sent.
<MENU>: This key requires the technician password for entry to the Utility Menu, and is described in the next section.
<SELECT INPUT>: This key selects the audio from one of the input channels and routes this audio to the balanced 600-ohm selected AUDIO OUT (terminals 13 & 14), as well as the 8-ohm selected audio out (terminals 15 & 16). This selected audio will also be heard on the front panel speaker.
<RECORD SPEECH>: This is for recording a voice message in the two-minute digital audio storage chips. Pressing this key automatically erases the audio currently in the two-minute audio storage.
<PLAY-BACK SPEECH>: This plays back the last recorded voice message.
<DISPLAY RECEIVED HEADER>: This allows the operator to check a received message before forwarding it. By using the <\/>, the whole received header can be read and its urgency gauged. This entire message should also have appeared on the printed log as it appears on the display.
The bottom-row keys are used only in conjunction with other operations, and do not themselves initiate any operations.
<EXIT>: This key is always used for backing out of menu items and selections, reversing the selection process. It also has a few other uses for which the unit provides a prompt.
<\/>: (Down Arrow) This is shown on the keypad as a heavy black arrow, pointing down. Both this and the </\> are used for both scrolling up/down or forward/backward through lists for selecting items, and also used to increase/decrease the digital pots that control certain programmed levels.
</\>: (Up Arrow) This is shown on the keypad as a heavy black arrow, pointing up. See <\/>, above.
<ENTER>: The use of this key is similar to the corresponding key on the computer keyboard.
(Figure V.3)
--- ENTER 4 DIGIT PASSWORD ---
As you enter the password, black squares appear on the screen to represent the numbers. If entered incorrectly, you reach this screen:
(Figure V.4)
The password just entered is incorrect.
Please re-enter the password correctly.
PRESS EXIT to EXIT
---<Delete Audio>: When you select this key, the following screen will appear:
(Figure V.5)
Select How Deleted Audio to be Sent
1 - Send without audio & attention tones
2 - Speak from console & send manual EOM
EXIT - Exit without deleting audio
This function only works in Broadcast mode, and is not applicable to TV/CG mode. If you select <1>, you will send only the FSK Header and EOM tones. If you select <2>, you will send the FSK Header and the ATT tone, followed by a prompt on the display for you to feed through your audio message from the studio microphone,, after which you must press <EOM> to end the message.
---<Compose Header>: When this is selected, this screen first comes up:
(Figure V.6)
If you have more counties than will fit on one screen, simply use the <\/> to
scroll down, and press <ENTER> when on the desired county selection(s). An arrowhead
(>) will appear next to the
selected counties. Then, pressing <EXIT>, you reach this screen: (Figure V.8) (Figure V.7)
Athens OH Fairfield OH
Hocking OH Morgan OH
Perry OH Entire State OH
--- SELECT VALID TIME, ENTER, EXIT ---
>0:15 0:30 0:45 1:00 1:30
2:00 2:30 3:00 3:30 4:00
4:30 5:00 5:30 6:00
This is set to a default of fifteen minutes. If you wish to change it, use the arrows, then <ENTER>. When you <EXIT>, you are ready to send the composed header.
---<Display Composed Header>: This key displays the latest composed header; use the <\/> to scroll to the bottom of the message. This function enables the operator to see if editing of the header code is necessary prior to its sending:
(Figure V.9)
****** EAS ALERT SENT BY EAS-1/CG ******
SENT 4/18/2000 9:54:58 EDT
A BROADCAST STATION
HAS ISSUED A
TORNADO WARNING
FOR THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES:
Athens OH
UNTIL 10:09 EDT
JULIAN DATE: 109 TIME: 9:54 EDT
ORIGINATING STATION: WOUB/FM
RECORDED VOICE MSG 0.0 Seconds
---<Select Input>: This is used to monitor audio inputs through the front panel speaker. By using the <\/> to move the cursor and pressing the <ENTER> key, the audio on each input can be monitored on the EAS-1/CG front panel speaker. It uses this screen:
(Figure V.10)
--- SELECT CHANNEL MENU ---
ENTER TO SELECT, EXIT TO EXIT
>CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4
CH5 CH6
---<Record Speech>: This allows direct recording of speech into the two-minute digital audio storage chips from the channel six input, which may either be a remote audio input or a locally-generated studio mike (through an amplifier), or directly from the front panel, using the front panel speaker as a microphone. You will see this screen:
(Figure V.11)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Recording Voice Message
TV/CG
To stop recording, press <EXIT>.
---<Play-Back Speech>: When playing back, this screen appears:
(Figure V.12)
SCAN:3ACTIVE:123 7/08/00 16:06:21EDT
DECODER: Scanning V 20.2
ENCODER: Playing Recorded Voice Message
TV/CG
Pressing <EXIT> at any time aborts the playback without dumping the stored audio.
---<Display Received Header>: This is similar to the display composed header, but shows the latest message received by your unit, and a typical display is as follows:
(Figure V.13)
**** EAS ALERT RECEIVED BY EAS-1/CG ****
CH# 3 RECEIVED 4/18/2000 9:54:58 EDT
A BROADCAST STATION
HAS ISSUED A
TORNADO WARNING
FOR THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES:
Athens OH
UNTIL 10:09 EDT
JULIAN DATE: 109 TIME: 9:54 EDT
ORIGINATING STATION: WOUB/FM
RECORDED VOICE MSG 12.5 Seconds
ALERT MESSAGE STORED
Again, use the <\/> to scroll down through the message. Note that the last line states ALERT MESSAGE STORED. If the alert message was not stored, you'll see one of these two messages:
(Figure V.14)
NOT STORED - DUPLICATE HEADER
Or:
NOT STORED - NOT PRESELECTED HEADER
The first indicates that the same message was received twice, so that the second time it was not stored. This happens when all parameters match: the same header, counties, valid time, and time stamp for origination (in the above example, it's 9:54). The second indicates that the event is not listed in the preselected event table or that none of the counties programmed into the unit for the viewing area are included in the header of the incoming message. This also appears if the incoming message was an RWT, but your unit is set not to forward it.
To originate an emergency message or test from your station, start by pressing the <COMPOSE HEADER> key on the keypad. Press the <\/> or </\> arrow to move the cursor down or up. Press the <\/> continuously to scroll through the events. Only four appear on each screen, but as you scroll down, you'll go through progressive screens until you've seen all the events. When the cursor is adjacent to the event code that you want in the header, press <ENTER> and an arrowhead (>) will appear next to your selection. Press <EXIT> to continue.
You now will see the preselected counties in your listening area. Press the<\/> or </\> arrow to move the cursor down or up. Press the <\/> continuously to scroll through the counties. Press <ENTER> to select each county desired for the alert; you may select any number of the counties listed. When each is selected, an arrowhead (>) will come on next to that county. If you wish to de-select a county, press <ENTER> again. Press the <EXIT> key to continue.
The next display will be the valid time for the event in the header code. Press the <\/> or </\>arrow to move the cursor down or up between the different valid time selections. After arriving at the time interval you want, press <ENTER>, and an arrowhead will appear. Press <EXIT> again to continue.
The display will now have returned to the normal operating mode. The encoder is now ready to send the FSK header code. Before sending the composed header, you might want to edit the message you have created. If you press the <DISPLAY COMPOSED HEADER> key and press the <\/>, you can read the message you're about to send. Press <EXIT> again to return to normal operating mode.
If you go to the console and through a momentary remote contact closure you can duplicate the "send composed header" key on the front panel keypad. Press the send composed header key and you send the FSK header and the two tone attention signal. Upon completion of the attention signal, give the audio emergency message from the console microphone. Upon completion of the emergency message send the end of message by pressing the <EOM> key. If you forget to send the EOM message, the EAS-1 will automatically send the EOM after two minutes.
If you want to send the composed header from the keypad when you press the send composed header key the display will ask you for the 4-digit code. We will ask on the order form what 4-digit code you would want to use. The printout of the setup information will show you what the 4-digit code is when the unit arrives. When you press the key for the last digit of the 4-digit code the FSK code and the two-tone attention signal will be transmitted. You must give the audio message from the console microphone and then send the EOM.
If in Broadcast Manual mode, then all alerts must be manually sent if you wish to forward them. In Broadcast Automatic mode, they will be sent according to the priority set for them, but you may send them manually any time within the priority time period. In fact, this is why the priority time period exists: for you to select an appropriate time to send the alert manually to minimize program interruption. The message forwards automatically at the end of the priority time ONLY if you have not already manually sent it. Of course, if the event is set to Send Now, then it will automatically forward as soon as it comes in.
Manual forwarding is very easy: Just press the <SEND STORED ALERT> key on the top row of the keypad. Any active message in the buffer will be automatically sent, with no need for a password.
If a received message will not forward when you do this, it's due to one of the following reasons:
--The valid time has expired
--It's a weekly test, and your unit is set to not forward weekly tests
--Your clock has the wrong time or date
--None of the preselected counties for the event in your unit match any of the counties in the alert.