Blue Tower Communications CELLTRACKIT-1 User Manual Installation and User Instructions

Blue Tower Communications Ltd Installation and User Instructions

Contents

Installation and User Instructions

CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 1Installation and operating instructionsVersion 0.7 (draft)Document historyVersion Date ChangeV0.8 23.11.99 Add statement on the minimum separation betweentransmit antenna and personnelV0.7 15.11.99 Release planning procedureV0.6 27/10/99 Various changesV0.5 16/07/99 Clarification in regulatory notice sectionV0.4 16/07/99 Add front page + cosmetic changesV3 01/07/99 Second iteration (BM/VF)V2 18/06/99 First iteration (BM, DS, PS,VFDRAFTRAMAR Technology •••• 1101-A Aviation Parkway •••• Morrisville •••• NorthCarolina •••• 27560(919) 461-0076 •••• Fax (919) 461-8553
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 2ContentsIntroductionRegulatory NoticeFCC Compliance RequirementsLabel RequirementsSafety WarningWarrantyPlanning the CellTrackIT SiteInstalling the CellTrackIT SystemOperating the CellTrackIT systemTroubleshootingGlossary of TermsAppendix 1 Installation Check ListAppendix 2 Repeater & Node Receiver Antenna MountingAppendix 3 Recommended Parts List & SuppliersAppendix 4 Lesson Plan for CellTrackIT Installation Training
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 3Introduction.The CellTrackIT Manual is designed to provide both the "Trainer" and the"Installer" a basis from which a CellTrackIT system can be effectively andefficiently planned and installed. It is assumed that the end user has limitedto no knowledge of radio frequency application. The Manual covers all theessential and basic procedures that a system designer/installer must follow todesign an efficient system. It also provides the basis from which the installercan implement the design plan. In most cases, the individual designing thenetwork will also install the system at the submetering site.CellTrackIT System Concept.RAMAR Technology’s product entry into the submetering market consists ofthe CellTrackIT system. With this new technology RAMAR plans to capitalizeon the growing need within the utilities market to submeter apartmentcomplexes.The CellTrackIT is a cost effective entry product designed to operate as a cellnetwork with up to 500 TransPondIT meter interface units (MIUs). It consistsof three types of functional components: the transponders, repeaters, andnode receiver unit connected to a Personal Computer (figure 1).Figure 1. CellTrackIT Cell Network
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 4Operation. The complete system is modeled as a self-contained cellnetwork adaptable to a variety of submetering applications. The number ofunits and the terrain makeup of area covered determine the size of thenetwork.The CellTrackIT is a two tier, one way radio system based on an improvedtransponder technology and Spread Spectrum methodology for radio wavepropagation. The two-tier approach offers flexibility and robustness whileensuring data integrity from the MIUs to the data collection computer withinthe network. With the two-tier approach the range of the transponders is alsoincreased allowing for large site coverage. The system uses an openarchitecture approach for data integration with existing billing systems.The first tier comprises of transponders transmitting to a repeater. Eachrepeater receives the transponder’s signals and then retransmits them to theNode Receiver-computer combination. This back link from repeater tocomputer is the second tier of the network. The data is transmitted using aspread spectrum transmission scheme. The Node Receiver converts thesignals to ASCII data and sends it via a COMM cable to the PersonalComputer.The node receiver is also able to directly receive Transponders. In smallerapartment complexes a CellTrackIT with only a node receiver and no repeatercould be sufficient to cover the area. In larger apartment properties thenetwork will contain repeaters. Number of repeater will depend mainly on thesize of the site.The CellTrackIT Transceiver can be set up as repeater or a node receiver.The transceiver configures itself as a node whenever it is connected to a PCrunning CellTrackIT software, via an RS232 cable. The node receiver functionis automatic upon the CellTrackIT transceiver sensing the connection anddoesn't require any further action on the part of the installer.The data that resides within the PC can be accessed by telephone line forremote management or locally through the on screen program.Regulatory Notice.Federal Communications Commission (FCC) noticeThe following notice is valid for CellTrackIT transceiver when operatedas a node receiver.NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limitsfor a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Theselimits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmfulinterference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 5can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used inaccordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will notoccur in a particular installation.If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or televisionreception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, theuser is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of thefollowing measures:-- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.-- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.-- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit differentfrom that to which the receiver is connected.-- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician forhelp.WARNINGS!• Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturercould void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.• The equipment is only authorized for use with the antenna and specialaccessories specified in Appendix 3 of this User Manual.• The equipment must be professionally installed. The equipment is onlyauthorized for use provided it is installed by qualified installers that havereceived the RAMAR certified training in the design and installation of thesystem.• The CellTrackIT is solely industrial and commercial in nature, therefore itcan not be sold to the general public.• The minimum separation between transmitter antenna and personnel is20 cm (6 inches) to ensure that the public or the system installer are notexposed to the radio frequency energy levels in excess of the FCCguidelines.Label Requirements. RAMAR complies with FCC and UnderwritersLaboratory (UL) requirements. The label attached to the CellTrackIT unitspecifies this compliance. If the label is missing, please contact RAMARbefore installing the system.Safety Warning. The CellTrackIT unit is a self-contained product with noserviceable user parts within. For safety reasons do not open or modify theunit from its original usage. If the unit is defective please refer to the warrantyfor disposition or call RAMAR customer service. Under no circumstances
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 6should the unit be opened for inspection or troubleshooting. The power cordreceptacle is designed for standard AC power of 110-125 VAC at 10 amps. Itis strongly recommended that the power source outlet be protected againstoverloads, short circuits, or surges in accordance with local and nationalwiring code regulations.Warranty. Opening the CellTrackIT voids the warranty and may result inthe user paying for all costs normally covered under warranty.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 7Planning and designing the CellTrackIT Site.The CellTrackIT system installation consists of two phases:PHASE 1: Planning where the network is conceptualized and designed priorto an actual visit on sitePHASE 2: Installation phase where CellTrackIT components are installed inthe site according to the plan.Both phases are essential in ensuring proper installation of the RAMARCellTrackIT system.Basic concept is to reduce time and effort spent on site for installation bydesigning the CellTrackIT system implementation before actually visiting thesite. The objective is to reduce uncertainty associated with any site byproperly planning installation and having the site prepared for installer venue.The planning aspect of the installation is geared towards making theconnection radio-wise from the transponders to the Node Receiver byeffectively placing the node and repeaters, and determining the economicalviability of the cost per point projection.Planning is important in that it sets the parameters, assumptions, and basiclayout of the installation.• Planning Procedure Overview. The goal of an efficient site planning is tominimize the number of repeaters per system while maximizing thereception of each transponder signal. The following outlines theprocedure:1. Gathering Data to characterize the site2. Define the RF Range for First and Second Tiers3. Place Node Receiver and Repeaters4. Optimize for Network Efficiency5. Calculate Costs per Point
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 81. Gathering Information. It is critical to gather pertinent data to properly design the system. The datagathered will be used for determining typical radio range. It will also be usedfor determining potential locations for repeaters and node receiver.Without the correct site characterization, the whole design process iscompromised and the installation of the CellTrackIT will be less efficient. Poorefficiency translates to an increase to overhead costs.The following checklist details information to be gathered❐ Site name and address❐ Detailed site map showing all buildings (numbered) with scale❐ Length and width of the property❐ Length and height of each building❐ Outer wall construction materials❐ Location of transponders in/on buildings❐ Potential locations to consider for installing repeaters if:Accessible, dryLength of cable to externally mounted antenna at roof height < 20 feetPermanent mains point available or can be installed❐ Potential locations to consider for installing node receiver and computer if:Accessible for installation, dryCentral location on the site if possibleoffice environment where the ambient temperatures are within the 32to 104 degrees FahrenheitLength of cable to externally mounted antenna at roof height < 10 mPermanent mains point available or can be installedPermanent telephone connection available or can be installedIf multiple locations are suitable, indicate preference order.And, if possible:❐ Description of site terrain❐ Description and location of radio obstructions not shown on map: trees,structures, terrain❐ Identify potential radio interference eg. proximity radio towers etc.Scale on the map is critical. Planning methodology based on range anddistance requires a reasonable accuracy of distances or dimensions given onthe map.The following chart is a tool for assisting in characterizing the site, building bybuilding.Buildingno. Numberof Height(floors) Loft spacesuitable for Roofconstruction Outer wallconstruction Inner wallconstruction
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 9meters Repeater materials materials materials12345678910Figure 2. Data Gathering Input FormPlanning Factors.Certain factors influence the range of the CellTrackIT. These factors effectsare discussed and illustrated in this section. The 1st tier range is particularlysensitive to these factors. The effects are then illustrated in a suggestedrange table at the end of the section.Height. The location of the antenna determines how well the antenna iscapable of receiving the transponder signals. As the higher the antenna thegreater number of buildings that the antenna will have unobstructed radiopath to. Normally, the higher the antenna the further the distance allowed.See diagram at end of section. Antenna heights of less than 5 m (15 feet) inany environment should generally be avoided.Obstructions. Any obstacle between the transponders and the repeaterantenna will result in an attenuated signal. The obvious obstacle of the innerand outer building walls around the transponder will be unavoidable. The bestthat can be achieved is attempt to get line of sight to the exterior of theapartment. There may be other buildings in the line of sight, or trees andshrubs associated with the site that will reduce the radio signal. A site with many of these unavoidable obstacles will require that the repeaterto transponder distances be reduced to compensate for signal loss.Building Construction. Building types have to be considered whendetermining the range of the installed transponders. The type of constructionwill determine, among other things, how much attenuation the signal willreceive. The increased attenuation of the transponder signal due to reinforcedconcrete, concrete, stucco(with metal reinforcement) construction leads to areduced range. Wood, particleboard or vinyl construction will allow furtherrange. Identify the construction type of the site buildings as part of theinformation gathering process. It will be the basic information to define thetypical range for the site.Distribution of buildings The range will be affected by the site’s density.Buildings close together such as a courtyard setting will cause the range to be
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 10reduced (obstructions). However, this could be compensated for, as thereduced range will include more apartments and more transponders than aless dense site.Landscaping. Trees and shrubs when blocking the line of sight to thetransponder can cause scattering of radio signals and therefore must beincluded when planning the network. The terrain plays an important part indetermining how many repeaters are needed. A reduced RF range can resultif hills and valleys cause large variations in the building heights or if hillsobscure the line of sight, resulting in an increased ratio of repeaters totransponders.RF Interference. Very strong external radio signals nearby, operating at thesame or near same frequencies as the CellTrackIT system can createinterference that will reduce the range to the Transponder and if present willneed to be compensated for. Potential RF interference sources are Cellulartelephone base stations at a distance of less than 800ft and Paging towers ata distance of less than 5000ft, or other 900Mhz ISM band AMR systems thatare located close to the repeaters on the site. Many radio systems operate atpeak output during the daylight hours with diminished signal trafficking duringthe night. Planning must take into account the operational hours of thesevarious radio systems to ensure that the system is designed for maximumefficiency with the minimum number of repeaters.RF self interference The minimum antenna to CellTrackIT or PC distanceshould be greater than 1m. The minimum line of sight distance, repeater toNode should be 45m.Cable lengthIt should be noted that longer RF cable runs will cause the range to bereduced, the node therefore will typically be used with a longer cable to sitethe PC and in such cases will have reduced range.Aesthetics. This is one factor that may require some negotiating with theapartment owner or supervisor. In most cases the placing of antennas onroofs or under eaves will not be an issue. However, it pays to first ask or toexplain the extent of change to the outward appearance of the building(s).The supervisor or owner will definitely appreciate the consideration. Placingthe antenna inside buildings will reduce first and second tier ranges, as roofand inner walls will attenuate radio signal.Antenna
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 11Repeater site Apartment A Apartment B Apartment CA. Illustration of roof mounted antenna, arrows indicate strongest signal path(In reverse)Repeater site Apartment A Apartment B Apartment CB. Illustration of below roof mounted antenna, arrows indicate strongest signalpath (In reverse)The advantage of high mounted antennas is shown in case A above. In caseB, for below average roof height antenna, if the buildings are of concrete orstucco then apartment block B will have only a 50% chance of allTransponders being read whereas the probability of all Transponders beingread in apartment B is much higher with wood or plastic clad construction.2. Define the RF Range for first and second TiersRF range is defined as the maximum distance between transmitter andreceiver so that RF signal transmitted is reliably received. For planningpurpose, ranges to be used are typical ranges. It is possible that actual rangeon the site is higher if RF path loss is lower than typical (e.g. transmitter lineof sight with receiver, no obstacles between transmitter and receiver).Determine the RF range for the first tier. The first tier, which consists ofthe transponder to repeater link, has a transponder signal path that musttravel through the building construction material of both inner and outer walls.Those units that are in the lower furthermost apartments must also transmittheir signals through the various floors. The following chart provides estimatedranges of signals that have been attenuated by the construction material ofthe buildings.Figure 3. Transponder to Repeater RangesBuilding construction Typical rangeStucco with metallic mesh frame (apartment complex) 240ft / 75 mReinforced concrete (courtyard apartment) 240ft / 75 mConcrete (apartment complex) 320ft / 100 mWood (apartment complex) 420ft / 130 mPlastic (apartment complex) 420ft / 130 mAntenna
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 12This typical range can be reduced according to several factors, (only use theworst two factors), it assumes a 20ft, ½ inch diameter, cable to the antenna:Planning factors Typical range reductionLandscapeDense vegetation (trees, shrubs) -5 %Relief (hilly, ridges, valleys) -10% to 20%Antenna locationLower than average roof height - 30%Inside building - 30%RF environmentPaging transmitter within 1500m(If antenna inside building) -20%-10%60ft cable to antenna -25%First tier range for a site will be determined by reducing typical range of thetotal of the planning factor reductions associated with this site.Determining the RF Range for the Second Tier. The second tier ranges,which consists of repeater to node receiver link, are influenced more bylandscape than by construction materials. Obstacles such as trees, tallbuildings, and terrain contours contribute to the signal path loss experiencedby each retransmitted transponder signal. The following charts illustratesrange based on two typical deployments.Line of sightBoth antennas at average roof heighttypical range 5000ft Not line of sightone antenna at average roof heightother antenna at 5m height externally wall mountedand obscured behind 1 buildingtypical range 1600ft
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 13Figure 5. Repeater to Node Receiver Ranges3. Determine location of Node Receiver and RepeatersNode Location. Network designing on the site map requires that the designerfirst identify the node receiver location. Ideally, the node receiver will becentrally placed on the site. This would allow for more site area coveragewhich will ensure more transponders will be within range. However, in somecases placing the node receiver in a central location may not be feasible.Additionally, the only location available may be the clubhouse or the mainoffice of which neither may be centrally located. The designer then must beflexible whenever placing the node receiver. Regardless of choice, the nodereceiver possible locations need to be identified first. When placing the nodereceiver consider where the Personal Computer will be located since it isattached directly to the node receiver.Node receiver location specification:Accessible for installation, dryCentral location on the site if possibleOffice environment, ambient temperatures within 32 °F to 104 °FLength of cable to externally mounted antenna at roof height < 60 feetPermanent mains point available or can be installedPermanent dedicated telephone connection available or can be installedThe node receiver is able to receive both transponders and repeaters, byalternating automatically between these 2 modes. Therefore, the nodereceiver can be used as a transponder receiver.Once node is located on the site map, draw a circle with node location as thecenter and 75% of the first tier range determined in stage 2 for this site as theradius. Reason for using only 75% of the first tier range, is the assumption touse a 60 feet antenna cable, which introduces more attenuation than a 20feet one used for repeaters. If the node antenna cable can be 20 feet long,use full range.When drawing the circle, verify the scale on the map. Incorrect scale will leadto wrong distance, therefore wrong planning. Transponders could be out ofrange.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 14The node will receive all transponders inside the circle. Transponders outsidethe circle will need repeaters to be received.Repeater Location.Repeaters must be located in attic/loft space in buildings.Repeater location specification:Accessible, dryLength of cable to externally mounted antenna at roof height < 20 feetPermanent mains point available or can be installedDetermining Repeater Location.Once the transponders received by the node receiver are determined,repeaters must be added to cover remaining parts of the site. It is then amatter of placing circles on the map, with typical range determined for the siteas a radius, to have all the transponders within the range of at least onerepeater. This can be achieved by using a compass, placing the pin on apossible repeater location and drawing a circle. Check then if sometransponders have been left outside the circle.The easiest way is probably to cut circles at the right scale in transparent orthin paper, locating the center with a cross, then place and reposition thecircles on the map until all the transponders are within a repeater range.When repositioning ensure that the buildings are still maintained within the RFcircle of each repeater. When doing the RF circles take the liberty toreposition the repeaters to cover areas more efficiently. In some cases, bymoving two repeaters slightly, a third repeater can be eliminated. When all the repeaters are located, mark the center and remove the papercircles. Then draw final circles with the compass on the map.Sketch with only a circle around the node.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 15NOTE: A transponder signal may repeated by several repeaters withoutdiminishing the efficiency of the network. The system is designed to handlesimultaneous reads.4. Optimize for Network EfficiencyIt is critical to verify at this stage that repeaters can actually be placed wherethey have been located on the map. Checking in information gathered orcalling the site manager would be helpful at this stage to avoid having tocancel the plan at arrival on site for installation. This includes access to atticspace or utility room, possibility to use a 20 feet cable between the repeaterand the antenna and possibility to install a power line (115 V AC).Optimizing goal is to reduce the number of repeaters to be installed on thesite by reducing overlapping or moving repeaters to have a better coverage.This is achieved by moving circles around the map.While optimizing the design it is recommended to check furthermosttransponders to the repeaters (closer to the circle lines). They are the mostcritical. It is recommended to check for factors that could reduce the range(buildings, trees, height compared with repeater antenna). Refer to planningfactors table (figure 4).It is also recommended to check lines of sight to verify the number and thenature of obstacles between Transponders and Repeaters. For example 2concrete buildings between a Transponder and a repeater will induce a highrisk not to receive the transponder.NOTE: The idea is to eliminate repeaters while maintaining adequatecoverage of the transponder points.Determining Cost Analysis.The cost of the CellTrackIT system can be determined once the placement ofthe repeaters is completed on the site map. Our sample in Figure 7 showsthat two repeaters were needed for the entire system to function properly.Figuring total cost per point is a matter of identifying the various costsassociated with a CellTrackIT System installation.CellTrackIT System Cost. The total CellTrackIT System cost is directly tiedto the number of repeaters used within the site. When designing the networkit becomes important that the number of CellTrackIT transceivers beminimized.The CellTrackIT transceiver antennas will need a bracket or possibly a metalpipe for its installation. Depending on how each repeater is installed, theantennas may also need brackets or metal pipe for setup.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 16The antennas also should be wired against lightning strikes, which wouldrequire grounding wire.Electrical Costs. The cost of installing power conduit in attics or along wallsper repeater has to be factored into the cost per point determination. Theinstallation of the AC power must comply with standard building codes.Normally, a licensed electrician will be required to install the electrical wiring.If the CellTrackIT PC is being located in a secluded place then a powersource will be needed for both the PC and the node receiver.Telephone Costs. For each CellTrackIT PC a dedicated and directtelephone line will be required. The cost of installing the line and the varioushookup charges need to be considered. The monthly cost of renting thetelephone line needs to be included in the operating costs of the site and notin determining installation cost per point.Man-Hour Costs. Included in this is the hours spent in planning andcoordinating the site or any additional hours associated with the installationprocess. Figuring Costs. Figuring cost per points is as simple as adding the costsand dividing by the number of apartment units at the site location. Once thecost per point is determined then a decision to proceed with the installationcan be made.Site preparationThe objective of site preparation is to reduce the time spent on site tophysically install the components of a CellTrackIT system. Making sure everyperson involved and every piece of equipment are available, is critical to asuccessful implementation.The result of the planning phase is a list of locations where repeaters, thenode receiver and the PC have to be installed. Verifying the plan is applicablewill secure an efficient installation. Here again, the easiest way is to phonethe site owner or site maintenance manager and review the plan with him.Site preparation is a critical element of the CellTrackIT installationprocedures. There are tasks that must be accomplished prior to installing anycomponent at the apartment site.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 17• The installer needs to procure all parts not included in the CellTrackITsystem. This means that a certain amount of lead-time is needed toensure that parts arrive prior to the actual on site installation. • External subcontract work such as the AC power conduit installation forthe repeaters and the telephone line installation for the PC needs to bescheduled and completed. • Proper tools need to be identified so that there will not be on site delaysdue to improper or missing tools. In particular, determine how therepeaters and the antennas will be installed on/in the apartment roofs. Insome cases, special ladders will be needed that can reach more then twostories.• When installing the water meters with attached transponders track serialnumbers to apartment address or account numbers to minimize confusionlater on. It is very easy to mistake a read from one apartment when itbelongs to another due to wrong record keeping.Before proceeding to the installation, it is recommended to check thefollowing items:❐ Equipment, tools and installation materials are available.❐ Site owner and site maintenance manager are aware and agree withinstallation operations that will be performed.❐ All the locations where repeaters and node are planned to be installed willbe easily accessible.❐ Power and phone lines have been installed or their installation is planned tomatch with the requirement to leave the site with a fully installed CellTrackITsystem.❐ All the transponders will be installed before completion of the CellTrackITinstallation❐ A matching list of transponders ID and meter (or apartment) number isavailable.Any missing item in that list will imply to be addressed on site. That coulddelay CellTrackIT installation.Installing the CellTrackIT System. Installing the Node Receiver. Installing the Node Receiver consist ofplugging a CellTrackIT transceiver to a 115 VAC power outlet and connectingthe RS232 cable between the COMMS Port of the CellTrackIT unit and thePC. The Com1 on the PC is normally where the cable is connected. Oncethis is done, then the antenna with the associated coaxial wiring is installed.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 18 Figure 12. Node Receiver Connections. Installing the Node Receiver Antenna. The coaxial cable that connects theantenna to the Node Receiver is in the Node accessories box. It is 60 feetlong. One end of the cable requires an N type Male connector that is thenscrewed on the antenna. The other end requires a male TNC connector thatattaches to the RX/TX connection on the CellTrackIT unit. Appendix 2 coversin detail the cable assembly and antenna mounting procedures. Important: Do not handle the antenna when connected to a poweredCellTrackIT transceiver, or make sure the minimum separation betweenantenna and personnel is 20 cm (6 inches). Locate the antenna in a mannerthat ensures that the public will not be exposed within this separation distancefor purpose of FCC RF exposure compliance. The Node Receiver antenna should be installed so that it clears the roof andisn't obstructed by any part of the building. The antenna should be at least 6inches away from any metal object along its length and tip. The standardpractice is to attach a 1-inch x 10 feet conduit pipe (normally found at homeimprovement stores) to the roof element. If the antenna pole needs to belonger, use a thicker pipe to compensate for wind velocity or add guide wiresto secure the pole (Check local ordinances for compliance requirements). Theantenna with its attachment bracket is then connected to the pole. Most CBradio and electronics stores have mounting brackets for mounting antennasand antenna poles. Run the coaxial cable down the inside of the pipe ifpossible. The coaxial cable that comes out from the end of the antenna pole will needto be placed in conduit (PVC pipe) or attached to the wall. Avoid damagingthe coaxial cable when attaching it to the wall. Make sure that the attachmentnails do not puncture the black plastic covering or any portion of the cable. The antenna that is provided with the CellTrackIT transceiver has been FCCcompliance certified and approved and can't be replaced with any otherantenna. Contact RAMAR Technical Support if the antenna needs replacingor is not available at the time of installation. • Verifying Node Receiver Operation. Once the node receiver isinstalled and the connections are completed check the two red LEDs foractivity. The POWER LED should be on while the DATA LED will be COMMS Port VAC Power
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 19flickering in an on-off mode. If either malfunction check the AC powersource for the POWER LED and the antenna for the DATA LED. The bestapproach would be to replace the CellTrackIT transceiver with another. Ifthat doesn’t solve the problem then check the power source by simplyturning the PC on and checking operation. The antenna check will requireattaching the HandTrackIT to determine if transponder transmissions arebeing received.Configuring the Node Receiver. The CellTrackIT transceiver willautomatically configure itself to function in a receiver capacity whenever anRS232 cable is connected to it. The node receiver will be ready for use whenthe power cord is plugged into an AC source and the RS232 cable is attachedbetween the receiver and the PC. The installer will, however, have to providealiases for each repeater for identifying the repeaters during maintenance..Configuring the CellTrackIT PC.• Hardware. Once the PC has power, plug in the telephone line intothe LINE in jack on the modem card. The system should already haveWindows software installed. Test the phone line by having someone dial infrom their computer once the CellTrackIT system has been installed and isoperational.The connection between the PC and the CellTrackIT unit will require anRS232 cable with 9 pin male connector on one end and a 9 pin femaleconnector on the other. This cable is included in the Node accessoriesbox.• Software. Refer to CellTrackIT software installation manual.Installing the Repeater. The CellTrackIT transceiver is designed to beinstalled in lofts or roof spaces and not for external installation. Wheninstalling the repeater write down the 10 digit serial number and building it isassociated with. This information will later be used for configuring thenetwork.The unit must be connected to 115 V AC for it to operate correctly. The ACpower should include ground for proper repeater operation. When installingthe power source, ensure that applicable building codes are adhered to.The repeater accessories box includes a 20 feet of coaxial cable for antennainstallation. The antenna should be installed just under the roof eaves usingthe recommended antenna-mounting bracket (see Appendix 2). As in theNode Receiver antenna, the repeater antenna can't be substituted for adifferent kind. When placing the antenna, make sure that it is located on theside of the building closest to the transponders it is servicing.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 20Figure 15. Proper Mounting of CellTrackIT Repeater.Plug in the power cord and attach the antenna coaxial cable with the maleTNC connector end to the RX/TX TNC hookup. Do not connect the antennato the RX connector. Only the RX/TX connector must be used. The otherend of the cable should have a male N Type connector that screws to theantenna (Appendix 2).Figure 16. CellTrackIT Repeater Connections.Both the Node Receiver and repeater antenna connections at the N Type endshould be wrapped in water proof tape to prevent corrosion due to waterseepage (ACE Rubber Splicing Tape --ACE 30986).• Verifying Repeater Operation. Once the repeater is installed in theattic and the connections are completed check the two red LEDs foractivity. The POWER LED should be on while the DATA LED will beflickering in an on-off mode. This flickering shows some Transpondersignals are received.Trouble shootingObserve LED lights. The repeater will not transmit if power isn’t applied to it orif it doesn’t receive any signals from the transponders.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 21The POWER LED should be on. Check the power cord is properly connected.Check the power source by simply plugging in any AC device (plug in light orpower drill) and checking operation.If the power source is working, try a new power cord or replace theCellTrackIT transceiver.The DATA LED should be flickering in an on-off mode. Check that theantenna cable is properly connected. Then check the antenna. The antennacheck will require attaching the HandTrackIT to determine if transpondertransmissions are being received.If transponder transmissions are received, replace the CellTrackITtransceiver.
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 22GLOSSARY
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 23Recommended Parts List & SuppliersAppendix 3The following parts (with asterisk) have been determined to comply with thenecessary FCC 15 Rule and have been approved by RAMAR for use in theCellTrackIT system. Use of any other component may result in an FCCviolation and could result in the CellTrackIT system being permanentlydisconnected or its operation temporarily suspended. Using componentsother then those specified by RAMAR voids the system warranty.All the basic components needed to install a CellTrackIT system arecontained in CellTrackIT accessories boxes.PART PART NO. REMARKSAntenna* B8965C Antenex 1-800-323-3757Antenna Base* MBC800 Antenex 1-800-323-3757Antenna Mount Right angle iron appr. 11” X 8.5” X 1”Antenna Pole 1.5” X 10” Conduit PipeAntenna Pole Mount Check local electronics store for kitCopper wire Standard lightning arresting wireCopper rod Standard lightning rodLesson Plan For CellTrackIT Installation TrainingAppendix 4
CellTrackIT user manual Version 0.8 Page 24

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