Advanced RF Technologies ADRFTECH004 Epoch-M1C-AF, Epoch-M1C-BF & Epoch-M1C-FF 800 MHz User Manual Epoch M1C 060927

Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Epoch-M1C-AF, Epoch-M1C-BF & Epoch-M1C-FF 800 MHz Epoch M1C 060927

Contents

Manual

EPOCH-M1C USER MANUAL Version 1.1 2607 Colorado Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90041 USA Tel: 323-254-8131 Fax: 323-254-4928 www.adrftech.com
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 2 of 38 Version 1.1 (Released September 27, 2006) Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. 2002-2006. All rights reserved. Please send comments to: E-Mail: info@adrftech.com Phone: (323) 254-8131 (800) 313-9345 Fax: (323) 254-4928 Address: Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Attention: Technical Publications Department 2607 Colorado Blvd., Suite 100 Los Angeles, CA 90041 USA www.adrftech.com
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 3 of 38 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction of Epoch-M1C ................................................................................5 1.1 Overview ......................................................................................................5 1.1.1 Highlights ......................................................................................5 1.1.2 Special Features..............................................................................5 1.1.3 Available Models ............................................................................7 1.2 Warnings and Hazards ..................................................................................8 1.3 Epoch-M1C Parts List .................................................................................10 1.4 Epoch-M1C Software Installation and Requirements...................................10 1.4.1 Minimum Requirements ..................................................................10 1.4.2 Epoch-M1C Software Installation....................................................10 1.4.3 Initial Startup of Epoch-M1C Software ............................................10 1.5 Pre-Installation using Epoch-M1C Software ...............................................11 1.6 Step by Step Instructions for Installation .....................................................12 1.6.1 Repeater Setup .............................................................................12 2 User Manual V1.0 using Epoch-M1C Software ...................................................16 2.1 Menu Structure ...........................................................................................16 2.1.1 Window Menu...............................................................................16 2.1.2 Status Menu .................................................................................17 2.1.3 Control Menu ...............................................................................18 2.1.3.1 General Setting Window..................................................18 2.1.3.2 Alarm Setting Window ....................................................20 2.1.4 Install Menu..................................................................................22 2.1.5 System Menu................................................................................23 2.1.5.1 Info. Window ..................................................................23 2.1.5.2 Upgrade Window ............................................................24 2.2 Using the Epoch-M1C Software ..................................................................25 2.2.1 Changing Parameters ...................................................................25 2.3 Alarms........................................................................................................26 2.3.1 General (Fixed Parameter) Alarms .................................................26 2.3.2 Downlink/Uplink Alarms...............................................................27 2.4 Default Control Settings..............................................................................27 2.4.1 Default General Setting.................................................................27 2.4.2 Default Alarm Setting ...................................................................28 3 Maintenance Guide for Epoch-M1C ....................................................................29 3.1 Periodic Inspection Checklist ......................................................................29 3.2 Preventive Measures for Optimal Operation.................................................29 3.2.1 Recommendations ........................................................................29 3.2.2 Precautions ..................................................................................29 4 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................30 4.1 Tx & Rx LEDs..............................................................................................30
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 4 of 38 4.2 Common Installation Problems ...................................................................31 5 Warranty and Repair Policy.................................................................................32 5.1 General Warranty ........................................................................................32 5.2 Limitations of Warranty...............................................................................32 5.3 Limitation of Damages ...............................................................................32 5.4 No Consequential Damages........................................................................32 5.5 Additional Limitation on Warranty...............................................................32 5.6 Return Material Authorization (RMA)...........................................................33 Appendix A: Specifications ..........................................................................................34 Appendix B: Button Operation......................................................................................36
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 5 of 38 1. Introduction of Epoch-M1C 1.1 Overview Epoch-M1C series repeaters enhance in-building wireless coverage in the most effective and cost efficient way. For its intelligent design and versatility, Epoch-M1C series repeaters are the ideal choice for indoor wireless coverage problems. An Epoch-M1C series repeater can be used as a stand-alone repeater with passive antennas connected to it or it can also be used as a feeder repeater to a DAS (Distributed Antenna System). 1.1.1 Highlights • 20 dBm Composite Output Power • 80 dB Gain • 25 dB AGC Range @ 0.5 dB Step • Can Set AGC Output Power Level • Band Selectable via Software • Can Support Non-Contiguous Bands • Supports Embedded Wireless Modem • Supports Network Management Monitoring System via SNMP • Supports Auxiliary Alarming for a DAS or a Third-Party Repeater 1.1.2 Special Features Figure 1 – Front & Right Side Views of the Repeater
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 6 of 38 1. Server Antenna Port One end of the coax cable will connect to the “Server Antenna Port” of Epoch-M1C while the other end of the cable will connect to the server antenna which is pointing towards the intended coverage area. 2. Power LED The Power LED will be lit Green if the power is turned on and will be not lit if the power is turned off. 3. Wireless Modem Access You can manually place or take off the wireless modem. 4. Donor Antenna Port One end of the coax cable will connect to the “Donor Antenna Port” of Epoch-M1C while the other end of the cable will connect to the donor antenna which is pointing towards the BTS. 5. VFD Display In this display, you are able to view the repeater vitals in each link (e.g. RSS, Gain, Output Power & Alarms). 6. Alarm LED If there is an alarm, the Alarm LED will be lit Red. If there is no alarm the LED will not be lit. 7. VFD VFD stands for “Vacuum Fluorescent Display.” ** Please refer to Appendix B for more detailed information on how the VFD button operates. 8. USB Interface For management and troubleshooting purposes, you can connect your PC to the Epoch-M1C via a USB cable. 9. Dry Contact Interface (AAI) AAI stands for Auxiliary Alarm Input. It acts as the interface between the two devices (Epoch-M1C & DAS or third-party repeater) so that it can pass alarming information from the third-party device to the Epoch-M1C. The following table illustrates the PIN assignment which can be customized according to the third-party device so that proper alarming parameters are passed to Epoch-M1C.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 7 of 38 No. NAME Description 1 Cable Connection Active Low 2 External Alarm 1 Active Low 3 External Alarm 2 Active Low 4 External Alarm 3 Active Low 5 External Alarm 4 Active Low 6 GND GND 7 GND GND 8 Open Open 9 Open Open 1.1.3 Available Models Epoch-M1C is available in all 850 MHz cellular band combinations. The following table illustrates the four standard models: Product ID Description Epoch-M1C-FF Cellular Full Band Epoch-M1C-AF A” + A + A’ Band Epoch-M1C-BF B+B’ Band Epoch-M1C-AP A (10 MHz) Only Epoch-M1C-BP B (10 MHz) Only Table 1 – Pin Assignment for AAITable 2 – Epoch-MIC Models
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 8 of 38 1.2 Warnings and Hazards Actual separation distance is determined upon gain of antenna used. Please maintain a minimum safe distance of at least 20 cm while operating near the donor and the server antennas. Also, the donor antenna needs to be mounted outdoors on a permanent structure. RF EXPOSURE & ANTENNA PLACEMENT GuidelinesOperating the Epoch-M1C with antennas in very close proximity facing each other could lead to severe damage to the repeater. WARNING! DAMAGE TO REPEATERWorking with the repeater while in operation, may expose the technician to RF electromagnetic fields that exceed FCC rules for human exposure. Visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety to learn more about the effects of exposure to RF electromagnetic fields. WARNING! EXPOSURE TO RF Opening the Epoch-M1C could result in electric shock and may cause severe injury. WARNING! ELECTRIC SHOCK
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 9 of 38 The user manual for an intentional or unintentional radiator shall caution the user that changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. INFORMATION TO USER This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTEOpening or tampering with the Epoch-M1C will void all warranties. WARRANTY
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 10 of 38 1.3 Epoch-M1C Parts List The Epoch-M1C repeater system includes: PART ID QUANTITY a. Epoch-M1C Repeater EPOCHMICXX 1 b. Screws SC01 4 c. **CD M100OMS V1.XX01 1 d. USB Cable USB01 1 e. Power Cable PWRC01 1 ** CD includes: (1) Software; (2) User Manual; (3) Epoch-M1C Quick Start Guide; & (4) Software & USB Driver Setup Guide. 1.4 Epoch-M1C Software Installation and Requirements 1.4.1 Minimum PCS Requirements CPU: 200 MHz Memory: 32 MB Hard Disk: 10 MB (Free Space) USB Port: 1 USB Port CD-ROM Drive Compatible Operating System: Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP 1.4.2 Epoch-M1C Software Installation ** Refer to the Software & USB Driver Setup Guide 1.4.3 Initial Startup of Epoch-M1C Software a. Using the USB cable (USB01) that is provided, connect one end of the cable to the USB port of the PC and the other end to the repeater’s USB port located on the right side of the repeater. b. Launch the Epoch-M1C Software. ** Refer to the Software & USB Driver Setup Guide
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 11 of 38 1.5 Pre-Installation using Epoch-M1C Software Prior to the Epoch-M1C installation, ensure that: a. The USB cable has been connected and proper communication has been established. b. The donor and server antennas are in place. c. The TX and RX communication status LEDs are lit green and blinking periodically on the Status Menu. ** The TX and RX LEDs should blink every 1 second only in the Status Menu. In the Status Menu, a blinking green RX LED indicates that the PC is retrieving data from the repeater (Epoch-M1C). Similarly, a blinking green TX LED indicates that the PC is transmitting data to the Epoch-M1C.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 12 of 38 1.6 Step by Step Instructions for Installation 1.6.1 Repeater Setup 1. Connect the Power Source Make sure that the power switch on the right side of the repeater is turned off before connecting the power cable. Connect the power cable to the AC/DC Power Port as shown in Figure 3. Make sure not to turn the power on ** Before connecting the power cable to the power source, make sure that the voltage source is 110 V. 2. Connect the Donor Antenna Connect one end of the RF coaxial cable to the donor antenna and the other end to the repeater Donor Antenna Port located on the top of the Epoch-M1C as shown in Figure 2. 3. Connect the Server Antenna Connect one end of the RF coaxial cable to the server antenna and connect the other end to the repeater Server Antenna Port located on the top of the Epoch-M1C as shown in Figure 2. 4. Connect the USB Cable Using the USB cable (included in the box), connect one end of the cable to Figure 2 – Front & Right Side Views of the Repeater
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 13 of 38 the Epoch-M1C’s USB port (located on the right side of the repeater) and the other end to the PC’s USB port as shown in Figure 2. ** Install the USB driver and the Epoch-M1C Manager Software prior to installation. 5. Turn On the Power for Epoch-M1C Make sure that the donor and server antennas and the power cable are securely connected to the correct ports. Turn on the power switch, located on the right side of the repeater. 6. Launch the Epoch-M1C Software Open the Epoch-M1C Software. You will see the Status Menu. ** For more detailed information on the Epoch-M1C Software, please refer to Section 2 on page 15. ** If only one or both of the LEDs are not blinking: (1) check the physical USB cable connection or (2) check if the repeater power is turned on. 7. Go to the Install Window Now with the blinking TX and RX status LEDs on the Status Window, go to the Install Window. You will see the following: 8. Select the Desired Band(s) From the Install Window (Figure 3), click on the desired band(s) (depending on which model you use, the corresponding band(s) will be highlighted). Figure 3 - Installation Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 14 of 38 ** If a wireless modem is not connected, skip steps 12 through 13 and proceed to step 14. 9. Provide SNMP Information Type in the Site ID and the Manager IP address as given to you by the Wireless Provider. Once both the parameters are typed in, you must click “Set” for it to be executed. 10. Check the Modem Connection Verify that the Auto Connection box is checked. 11. Click on Install After the first three steps, click on “Install.” This installation process will normally take less than a minute. ** Please refer to the “Epoch-M1C Quick Start Guide” for any questions or problems that you may encounter during this installation process. If a modem is not connected to the repeater and you click the “Install” button, the following pop-up window will appear: If you choose to continue with the RF portion only, simply click “Yes” and the installation process will resume again. 12. Check the Front LED Panel Check that the Power LED is on (Green) and the Alarm LED (Red) is off. ** If the Alarm LED is on, refer to Section 2.3 on page 25. ** You can go to the Status Menu of the Epoch-M1C Software to view the basic parameters of the repeater once the repeater has installed successfully.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 15 of 38 CONGRATULATIONS!! The Epoch-M1C Installation Process is Complete.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 16 of 38 2 User Manual V1.0 using Epoch-M1C Software 2.1 Menu Structure 2.1.1 Window Overview Status The Status Window allows you to monitor the current settings and status of the Epoch-M1C. Control The Control Window enablesyou to change or adjust the Epoch-M1C’s parameters and settings. Install The Install Window guides you through an automated installation of the Epoch-M1C repeater. Figure 5 - Status Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 17 of 38 2.1.2 Status Window The Status Window is the monitoring window of the Epoch-M1C Software. This window enables the user to monitor the status and settings of the Epoch-M1C. In other words, no parameters can be changed in the Status Window. To change parameters, you will need to go to the Control Window. Band Selection Currently selected band(s) are highlighted. Repeater Input Indicates input signal strength of the repeater after the donor antenna [in dBm]. Repeater Output The output of the repeater [in dBm] before being radiated by the server antenna. Repeater Gain Indicates the gain of the repeater [in dB]. Alarm Button The alarm button changes color to the corresponding status of the repeater: Green for normal operation; Yellow for soft fail alarm; and Red for hard fail alarm. Click on the alarm button for detailed alarm information. Message Board The user will be able to see heartbeat messages which are sent out recently. In addition, the user will also be able to see any alarms that are generated along with messages once the alarms are cleared as well. Status Bar Displays the status of the repeater (e.g. Status Window Loaded Properly, etc.), transmit (TX) and receive (RX) communication LEDs. Figure 6 - Status Window of the Epoch-M1C Software Installation Indicates whether the repeater is properly installed. Modem Connection Indicates whether the modem has properly established a PPP session. Log File History for the heartbeats and alarms generated from the repeater and can be saved as a text file. Clear Will clear the Message Board. Specified Band Indicates the current repeater operating band(s).
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 18 of 38 2.1.3 Control Menu 2.1.3.1 General Setting Window AGC Mode AGC (Auto Gain Control) adjusts the variable gain of the repeater to ensure a constant specified output power of 20 dBm. The functionality of the AGC feature is assured under the condition that the input BTS signal is within the specified AGC range (-60 to -35 dBm => assuming AGC Level is set to 20 dBm) and that sufficient isolation exists between antennas (≥ 93 dB). By default, the AGC ON box is checked. To manually change the gains in both the links, AGC ON must be unchecked. If AGC ON is checked and Uplink Tracking ON is unchecked, the user can specify the AGC level in the downlink and in the uplink respectively @ 0.5 dB step (0 to 20 dBm). By default, the AGC Level is set to 20 dBm in each link. Downlink/Uplink HPA Mode The HPA mode enables the user to turn the HPA on or off. If the HPA is turned off on either link, the Epoch-M1C will not operate properly. Both HPAs needs to be turned on for the RF portion of the repeater to work in both directions (downlink and uplink). By default, the Downlink/Uplink HPA ON boxes are checked. Either or both HPAs can be turned off for troubleshooting purposes during an installation process. Figure 7 - General Setting Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 19 of 38 Uplink Tracking/Offset Modes Uplink tracking mode enables or disables the Uplink Tracking ON feature that sets the gain in the uplink equaling to the gain in the downlink. The tracking gain offset is the difference between the uplink and downlink gains. For example, if the downlink gain is 80 dB, the Uplink Tracking ON is checked, and the Uplink Tracking Gain Offset is set to 3 dB, the uplink gain would be 77 dB. By default, the Uplink Tracking ON box is not checked. If it was checked, then the default Uplink Tracking Offset is set to 3 dB. This means that the uplink gain will track the down link gain and will be 3 dB less. Control Item Action Setting Value Uplink Tracking ON Set Uplink Tracking Mode ON or OFF Uplink Tracking Offset Set Tracking Gain Offset 0 ~ 10 dB @ 0.5 dB step Downlink/Uplink Gain The gain of the Epoch-M1C is the ratio of the input signal to the output signal. The gain may be set in both links. ** The manual gain option is disabled when the AGC ON box is checked. Reboot By clicking the “Reboot” button, similar to how the operation works in a PC, the control board of the repeater will restart itself. Factory Setting Clicking on the “Factory Setting” button resets the settings of the repeater to the original default factory settings as noted in the “Default Control Settings” in Section 2.4 on page 28. ** You will lose your current saved settings once you click on Factory Setting. Table 3 - Uplink Tracking Mode and Tracking Gain Offset Range
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 20 of 38 2.1.3.2 Alarm Setting Window Heartbeat The Heartbeat is a periodic message sent out to Wireless Provider’s NOC only if the repeater comes with a wireless modem. Control Item Action Setting Value Heartbeat ON/OFF Set Heartbeat Mode ON/OFF Periodic Time Set Heartbeat Time 1 ~ 60 min @ 1 min step Heartbeat Mode The Heartbeat ON box is checked by default. The heartbeat feature is only available if the repeater has a wireless modem. Periodic Time The Periodic Time is the time interval between Heartbeats only if the repeater has a wireless modem connected to it. The default periodic time is 20 minutes. The periodic time can be adjusted manually between 1 to 60 minutes. Date & Time If the repeater doesn’t come have a wireless modem, you need to set the date and time manually in order for the Log File to reflect accurate information in terms of when the data was generated. If there is a modem inside the repeater, you do not need to set the date and time manually. Figure 8 - Alarm Setting Window of the Epoch-M1C Software Table 4 - Heartbeat Mode and Time Range
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 21 of 38 Alarm Setting RSSI The RSSI alarm is the minimum RSSI value that the Epoch-M1C requires to ensure optimal coverage. The RSSI alarm will go off when the RSSI is lower than the threshold value (refer to the RSSI value in the Alarm Setting Window). The threshold RSSI value can also be adjusted manually @ 0.5 dB step (range is shown in Table 5 on page 20). Input Overload A Downlink/Uplink Input Overload alarm occurs when the input signal strength to the Epoch-M1C exceeds the threshold value (refer to the Uplink/Downlink Input Overload values in the Alarm Setting window). Control Item Action Downlink Uplink Downlink/Uplink RSSI Sets Low RSSI Alarm Level -110 ~ -80 dBm -110 ~ -80 dBm Downlink/Uplink Input Overload Sets Input Overload Level -45 ~ -20 dBm -45 ~ -20 dBm Table 5 - Alarm Threshold Values
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 22 of 38 2.1.4 Install Window At the time of installation, the installer needs to go to the Install Window of the Epoch-M1C Software. The Install Window will guide the installer through a step by step process to properly install the Epoch-M1C repeater. For setup or installation of Epoch-M1C, go to the Install Window. Band As shown on Figure 9, simply click on the desired band. To uncheck a band, click on it again. SNMP (only applicable if a wireless modem is connected to the repeater) a. Site ID The Site ID is a unique ID for each site and will be provided by the Wireless Provider. b. Manager IP The Manager IP address will be provided by the Wireless Provider. The repeater will send alarms to the Wireless Provider’s NOC to the assigned Manager IP address. Modem (only applicable if a wireless modem is connected to the repeater) The Auto Connection box needs to be checked when the wireless modem is installed inside the repeater. A wireless modem is used in order to send the alarms and the heartbeat over the air to the Wireless Provider’s NOC. Figure 9 - Install Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 23 of 38 Repeater Click the “Install” button and the repeater will setup automatically. For information regarding the use of the Epoch-M1C Software during installation, refer to Section 1.7.1 on page 11, “Repeater Installation” (starting at number 9). 2.1.5 System Menu 2.1.5.1 Info Window The Info Window displays the Model Number, Serial Number and Firmware Version of the Epoch-M1C repeater. Contact information is included along with a link to Advanced RF Technologies, Inc.’s URL. Figure 10 - Info. Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 24 of 38 2.1.5.2 Upgrade Window In order to download the latest repeater firmware, click on the Upgrade Window. The firmware file will be provided by the technical support group from Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Once the firmware file has been saved on the PC, you would connect the Epoch-M1C repeater to the PC via the USB cable provided. Click on “Open” and locate the firmware file and click on ‘Download.” Once the firmware has been downloaded successfully, the following pop-up window will appear. Figure11 - Upgrade Window of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 25 of 38 2.2 Using the Epoch-M1C Software 2.2.1 Changing Parameters In changing the parameters of the repeater using the Epoch-M1C Software, note that the values entered into the Epoch-M1C Software are limited to the ranges and modes specified in the Menu Structure section as explained in Section 2.1 on page 15. The chart below shows the parameters that can be changed and the location of each parameter in the Control Menu Structure. The asterisk “*” denotes parameters that apply to both uplink and downlink. 2.3 Alarms All the various alarms that are supported by Epoch-M1C can be viewed by clicking the “Alarm” button on the Status Window. If a soft or hard fail alarm should occur, the corresponding alarm box would be highlighted in yellow or in red respectively. In order to find out what is causing the alarm(s), simply place the mouse cursor over the highlighted yellow or red alarm box (Note: only applicable to some of the alarms) and a message will appear, displaying the threshold value and the current measured value. To update the window, click the “Refresh” button. Control MenuGeneral Setting Alarm Setting Reboot Factory Setting Manual Gain Control*AGC Level Control* Uplink Tracking OffsetPeriodic Time Date & Time RSSI* Input Overload*Figure 12 - Variable Parameters in the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 26 of 38 In the event of a hard fail alarm, the control board will shut down the HPA (both uplink & downlink) for 30 seconds and then turn on the HPA to check for a repeated hard fail occurrence. If the hard fail alarm persists for up to four consecutive occurrences, the control board will shut down the HPA for 20 minutes (total of five consecutive hard fails). After 20 minutes, the HPA will automatically come back alive and the control board will check if the Hard Fail alarm has cleared. If it has not, the same process will continue as mentioned above. ** The alarms can also be viewed on the front panel of the repeater by clicking the VFD button. Please refer to Appendix B for more detailed information. ** Epoch-M1C also supports AAI (Auxiliary Alarm Input). Please refer to Section 1.1.2 on Page 6. 2.3.1 General (Fixed Parameter) Alarms Alarm List Soft Fail Hard Fail Comments Over/Under Current O O Soft Fail: Less than 0.5 A @ under current Hard Fail: More than 4.7 A @ over current Over Temperature O O Soft Fail: 158 ~ 185 °F Hard Fail: > 185 °F Synthesizer Lock - O Band selection will not work properly VSWR - O > 1.5:1 RF Power - O Will occur in the event of any Hard Fail alarm Table 7 - General (Fixed Parameter) Alarms of the Epoch-M1C Software Figure 13 - All Alarm Parameters Supported by Epoch-M1C
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 27 of 38 2.3.2 Downlink/Uplink Alarms Alarm List Soft Fail Hard Fail Remark RSSI O - Input Power Overload O - Downlink (Forward) Over Power* O O RSSI O - Input Power Overload O - Uplink (Reverse) Over Power* O O Alarms will turn on if the value is not within operable limits specified in the Control Alarm Setting Window. Note: The Over Power parameter is fixed and cannot be modified by the user. The example below distinguishes the difference between an over power soft failure and an over power hard failure: If the threshold value for the downlink over power parameter is set to 22.0 dBm (factory set value), a Hard Fail alarm would occur if the downlink over power value was greater than 22.0 dBm (20 dBm is the maximum composite power allowable). Similarly, a Soft Fail alarm would occur if the downlink over power value was greater than 21.0 dBm but less than 22.0 dBm. Vice versa, the same example is also applicable in the uplink side. 2.4 Default Control Settings 2.4.1 Default General Settings Control Item Setting Value AGC Mode ON Downlink/Uplink HPA Mode ON Uplink Tracking Mode ON Downlink/Uplink Gain 70 dB Downlink/Uplink AGC Level 20 dBm Tracking Gain Offset 3 dB a. When Uplink Tracking ON mode is enabled, the Tracking Gain Offset is set to 3 dB. b. When AGC ON mode is enabled, by default the Downlink/Uplink AGC Level is set to 20 dBm. Table 8 – List of Alarm Settings of the Epoch-M1C Software Table 9 - Adjustable Alarm Settings of the Epoch-M1C Epoch-M1C
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 28 of 38 2.4.2 Default Alarm Setting Setting Value Control Item Downlink Uplink RSSI -95 dBm -110 dBm Input Overload -35 dBm -35 dBm Heartbeat On/Off ON Heartbeat Time 20 minutes Table 10 - Default Alarm Parameter Values of the Epoch-M1C Software
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 29 of 38 3 Maintenance Guide for Epoch-M1C 3.1 Periodic Inspection Checklist Check for loose connections to the repeater and antennas. If connections are loose, make sure that all connections are tightly fastened. Cables and connectors are in good condition. Ensure that the repeater brackets are in good condition and that the repeater is securely fastened. 3.2 Preventive Measures for Optimal Operation 3.2.1 Recommendations • Perform the Periodic Inspection Checklist quarterly or semiannually. 3.2.2 Precautions • Do not operate the repeater with the antennas in extremely close proximity as this may cause damage to the repeater. • Do not change parameters unless instructed to do so by an authorized supervisor. • Do not move the repeater unless instructed to do so by an authorized supervisor. • Do not detach any cables to the repeater unless repair of respective components are necessary.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 30 of 38 4 Troubleshooting 4.1 Tx & Rx LEDs Tx Rx Explanation Blinking GREEN Blinking GREEN Successful Connection. The Epoch-M1C Software and the repeater are communicating successfully. Blinking GREEN Solid GREEN The repeater is not receiving any commands from the software. In this state, the repeater is either processing or executing a command. Wait for a few seconds for the Rx LED to blink periodically. Blinking GREEN RED The repeater is not receiving any commands from the software. Ensure that the repeater is tuned on and check for proper USB port connection. RED RED The USB port can not send or receive data. Check if the USB driver has been installed and also verify if the physical connection on both ends of the USB cable is secure. Ensure that the repeater is turned on. ** The Tx/Rx LEDs will blink periodically only on the Status Window. Table 11 - Tx and Rx LEDs
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 31 of 38 4.2 Common Installation Problems Problem Possible Solution USB port is not being recognized You would need to install the driver for the USB cable which can be found with the CD that comes with the repeater. The power green LED on the front panel is not lit. Check if the power switch is turned on. Also verify if the power cord is securely connected to the repeater. Make sure there is no power outage. GUI Software & Laptop - No Communication The very first time during installation, once you connect the USB cable to the repeater and the laptop, the PC will automatically detect a new hardware has been added in the system and will prompt you to install the driver which can be found in the CD. The driver needs to be installed only once. Status Window – Weak Signal or Donor RSS Check that the donor and server antennas are connected to the proper antenna ports on the repeater. Reposition or rotate the donor antenna until a stronger signal is received. Low Isolation or Oscillation Increase the separation between the donor and server antennas by moving the antennas around or by rotating them. Downlink/Uplink VSWR Alarm Check the cabling because RF signals may be leaking and also verify that the connectors are tightly secured. Downlink/Uplink Input Power Overload Alarm Add an attenuator after the donor/server antenna to reduce the strong donor/server signal coming into the repeater. If the repeater is connected to a DAS, there is a good chance the DAS system could cause a strong signal to come in on the uplink side of the repeater, causing an Uplink Input Power Overload alarm. If this happens, add an attenuator on the uplink side of the repeater or control the signal coming in from the DAS. Try to reduce the AGC Power Level using the GUI software. An oscillation in the system could cause this alarm. Check if there is sufficient separation between the donor and the server antennas. Downlink/Uplink Over Power Alarm Add an attenuator after the donor/server antenna to reduce the strong donor/server signal coming into the repeater. An oscillation in the system could cause this alarm. Check if there is sufficient separation between the donor and the server antennas. Table 12 – Troubleshooting Tips
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 32 of 38 5 Warranty and Repair Policy 5.1 General Warranty The Epoch-M1C carries a Standard Warranty period of two (2) years unless indicated otherwise on the package or in the acknowledgment of the purchase order. 5.2 Limitations of Warranty Your exclusive remedy for any defective product is limited to the repair or replacement of the defective product. Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. may elect which remedy or combination of remedies to provide in its sole discretion. Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. shall have a reasonable time after determining that a defective product exists to repair or replace the problem unit. Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. warranty applies to repaired or replaced products for the balance of the applicable period of the original warranty or ninety days from the date of shipment of a repaired or replaced product, whichever is longer. 5.3 Limitation of Damages The liability for any defective product shall in no event exceed the purchase price for the defective product. 5.4 No Consequential Damages Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. has no liability for general, consequential, incidental or special damages. 5.5 Additional Limitation on Warranty Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. standard warranty does not cover products which have been received improperly packaged, altered, or physically damaged. For example, broken warranty seal, labels exhibiting tampering, physically abused enclosure, broken pins on connectors, any modifications made without Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. authorization, will void all warranty.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 33 of 38 5.6 Return Material Authorization (RMA) No product may be returned directly to Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. without first getting approval from Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. If it is determined that the product may be defective, you will be given an RMA number and instructions on how to return the product. An unauthorized return, i.e., one for which an RMA number has not been issued, will be returned to you at your expense. Authorized returns are to be shipped to the address on the RMA in an approved shipping container. You will be given our courier information. It is suggested that the original box and packaging materials should be kept if an occasion arises where a defective product needs to be shipped back to Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. To request an RMA, please call (323) 254-8131 / (800) 313-9345 or send an email to techsupport@adrftech.com.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 34 of 38 Appendix A: Specifications ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS PARAMETERS SPECIFICATIONS COMMENTS DL 869 to 894 MHz Frequency Range UL 824 to 849 MHz Epoch-M1C-FF Model 1: Cellular Full Band Epoch-M1C-AF Model 2: A” + A + A’ Band Epoch-M1C-BF Model 3: B+B’ Band Epoch-M1C-AP Model 4: A (10 MHz) Only Sub Band Filtering Epoch-M1C-BP Model 5: B (10 MHz) Only Operating Frequency Programmable Freq. Step: 10 KHz Frequency Error ≤ +/- 0.1 ppm Delay ≤ 5 usec Each Direction Input Dynamic Range -35 to -60 dBm Repeater Gain 55 to 80 dB Maximum DL&UL Output Power +20 dBm Composite DL AGC Range 25 dB / 0.5 dB Step UL AGC Range 25 dB / 0.5 dB Step Gain Flatness +/- 1.5 dB ≤ -45 dBc @ Fc +/- 750 KHz In Band Noise ≤ -50 dBc @ Fc +/- 1.98 MHz Spurious Emission < -13 dBm @ Fc +/- 2.25 MHz Rho Factor ≥ 0.912 Noise Figure 5 dB (Typical) VSWR ≤ 1.5:1
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 35 of 38 MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS PARAMETERS SPECIFICATIONS COMMENTS Housing (W x H x D) 8.27 x 11.03 x 3.57 inches Housing Material Aluminum & Plastic Weight ≤ 13.22 lbs Antenna N-Type (Female) Dry Contact RS-232 (Female) Connector Type NMS Control USB) Cooling External Convection POWER SPECIFICATIONS PARAMETERS SPECIFICATIONS COMMENTS Main AC Power 100 to 240 VAC AC Frequency 45 to 65 Hz Power Adapter shall comply with UL & CE Adaptor Voltage & Current 6 VDC / 4.5 A Power Consumption ≤ 30 Watts ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS PARAMETERS SPECIFICATIONS COMMENTS Operating Temperature +41 ˚F to +113 ˚F Storage Temperature +23 ˚F to +176 ˚F Humidity 10 to 85%, RH MTBF 75,000 hours
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 36 of 38 Appendix B: Button Operation Normal Operation Power OffInitializing....POWER VFD ALARMNormal Operation6 sec16 secBooting TimePower On(off) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)The VFD display will disappear 30 minutes after VFD button is pressed.Display Cycle*POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off) DL: IN GAIN OUT-102 80.0 -10If there is no modem hardware, the display will be blank. If a modem exists, but is not connected, the display will read ‘DIS’.UL: IN GAIN OUT-102 77.0 -10DownlinkUplink4 sec BAND MODEM B + B’ CON4 secSTATUSINSTALLEDBand & ChannelInstall Status4 secIf the repeater is not installed, the display will read ‘STATUSNOT INSTALLED’POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)4 secDisplay CycleIf the VFD button is pressed, the display will come up again.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 37 of 38 Soft Fail Alarm Operation Soft Alarm OperationSOFT FAIL ALARMDOWNLINK RSSIPower OffInitializing....POWER VFD ALARM6 sec16 secBooting TimePower On(off) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)If the VFD button is pressed, the display will come up again.Display Cycle*POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)4 sec 4 secUntil the condition clears.The VFD display will disappear 30 minutes after VFD button is pressed.
Epoch-M1C RF Repeater User Manual V1.1 Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. Proprietary Document Page 38 of 38 Hard Fail Alarm Operation Hard Alarm OperationHARD FAIL ALARMVSWRSYSTEMHALTHARD FAIL ALARM CLEARED20 minSYSTEMALARM CHECKING Power OffInitializing....POWER VFD ALARM6 sec16 secBooting TimePower On(off) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)Display Cycle*POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red)POWER VFD ALARM(Green) (Red) 4 sec4 secAlarm Cleared?YesNoPOWER VFD ALARM(Green) (off)Right awayThe VFD display will disappear 30 minutes after VFD button is pressed.If the VFD button is pressed, the display will come up again.

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