CalAmp Wireless Networks GPD9 Gemini/PD+ User Manual Gemini PD Technical Manual

CALAMP WIRELESS NETWORKS INC. Gemini/PD+ Gemini PD Technical Manual

preliminary version including cable looses as recommended

GeminiPD+Mobile RadiomodemInstallation GuideVersion 1.03PRELIMINARY, For Internal Use OnlyThe entire contents of this manual and the Radio Installation Softwaredescribed in this manual are copyright 2002 by DATARADIO Inc.Copyright DATARADIO Inc.Octomber, 2002Part no.: 120 20120-103Preliminary
Table of Contents1. PRODUCT OVERVIEW................................................................................................................................... 11.1 INTENDED AUDIENCE ....................................................................................................................................... 11.2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................................... 11.2.1 Features .................................................................................................................................................. 11.2.2 Configuration.......................................................................................................................................... 21.3 FACTORY TECHNICAL SUPPORT........................................................................................................................ 21.4 PRODUCT WARRANTY ...................................................................................................................................... 21.5 REPLACEMENT PARTS....................................................................................................................................... 21.5.1 Factory Repair........................................................................................................................................ 21.6 UNPACKING ...................................................................................................................................................... 22. INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................................... 32.1 PLANNING THE INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 32.1.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 32.1.2 Location .................................................................................................................................................. 32.1.3 Cable Path............................................................................................................................................... 32.2 WARNINGS........................................................................................................................................................ 32.2.1 RF Radiation warning............................................................................................................................. 32.2.2 Interference with vehicular electronics................................................................................................... 32.2.3 Secure mounting...................................................................................................................................... 42.2.4 Explosive environments........................................................................................................................... 42.2.5 Installation in vehicles powered by liquefied gas. .................................................................................. 42.3 PHYSICAL UNIT................................................................................................................................................. 42.3.1 Recommended tools and supplies............................................................................................................ 42.3.2 Physical mounting of GeminiPD+ ............................................................................................................. 42.4 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION .............................................................................................................................. 52.4.1 Electrical requirements........................................................................................................................... 52.4.2 Routing of power cable ........................................................................................................................... 52.5 ANTENNA ......................................................................................................................................................... 72.5.1 Recommended tools and supplies............................................................................................................ 72.5.2 Planning.................................................................................................................................................. 72.5.3 Antenna Installation................................................................................................................................ 82.6. COMPLETING THE PHYSICAL INSTALLATION. ................................................................................................ 82.7. CHECKING OUT NORMAL OPERATION ........................................................................................................... 83. OPERATING DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................................... 93.1 FRONT & REAR PANELS ................................................................................................................................... 93.2 DTE PORT INTERFACE ................................................................................................................................... 103.2.1 RS-232 Interface Signal Levels............................................................................................................. 104. TROUBLE-SHOOTING AND TESTING ..................................................................................................... 114.1 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED ................................................................................................................................... 114.2 BASIC TESTS................................................................................................................................................... 114.3 ADDITIONAL TEST DETAILS ............................................................................................................................. 144.3.1 GPS Test................................................................................................................................................ 144.3.2 RF Data Link Test................................................................................................................................. 145. SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................................................................................................... 15FIGURE 1 - MOUNTING PLATE AND SLOT DIMENSIONS.................................................................................................... 5FIGURE 2 - BRACKET INSTALLATION.............................................................................................................................. 5
120 20120-103Preliminary ii GeminiPD+ Installation GuideFIGURE 3 - DC POWER CONNECTOR.............................................................................................................................. 6FIGURE 4 - ANTENNA SPACING....................................................................................................................................... 7FIGURE 5 - FRONT AND REAR PANELS ............................................................................................................................ 9TABLE 1 - GEMINIPD+ LEDS INDICATIONS ................................................................................................................... 10TABLE 2 - RS-232 SIGNAL LEVELS.............................................................................................................................. 10TABLE 3 - TESTS, FULL CHANNEL UNITS..................................................................................................................... 12TABLE 4 - TESTS, NPSPAC & HALF CHANNEL UNITS ................................................................................................ 13APPENDIX 1 - "OFFICER REQUIRES ASSISTANCE" ALARM FUNCTION ........................................................................... 17
120 20120-103Preliminary iii GeminiPD+ Installation GuideWhat's New in this versionHistoryPreliminary Version 1.03, October 2002• Add 1.6 dB cable looses in section 2.5 (FCC-MPE)Preliminary Version 1.02, October 2002• Update Section 2.5 (FCC-MPE)Preliminary Version 1.01, August 2002• Introduction of GeminiPD+ in 900 MHz frequency band.Version 1.00, May 2002• Introduction of GeminiPD+ running data rate up to 32kb/s
120 20120-103Preliminary iv GeminiPD+ Installation Guide Definitions The following terms are used throughout this document. Item Definition DCE Data Communications Equipment. This designation defines the direction (inputor output) of the various RS-232 interface signals. Modems are always wired asDCE. DTE Data Terminal Equipment. This designation defines the direction (input or out-put) of the various RS-232 interface signals. Most user equipment, as well asPCs, are wired as DTE. GCU GeminiPD Control Unit board GeminiPD High specs mobile radiomodem. Limited to 25.6 kb/s. PD = Parallel decode GeminiPD+ On-air compatible with GeminiPD. Runs up to 32 kb/s GeminiPD Lite GeminiPD without GPS feature HDX Half Duplex. A unit that uses separate transmit and receive frequencies, butwhich may not transmit and receive simultaneously. RS-232 Industry–standard interface for data transfer.WinRIS Windows © Radio Installation Software. This software allows basic tests andunit configuration.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide11. PRODUCT OVERVIEWThis document provides the informationrequired for the installation, operation andverification of the DATARADIO GeminiPD+.1.1 Intended AudienceThis document is designed for use by engi-neering design, installation, and mainte-nance personnel.1.2 General DescriptionGeminiPD+ is a mobile radiomodem aimed atthe public safety and public utility markets tomeet demand for high speed and highthroughput. It integrates all the necessaryhardware for data-only vehicular installationsup to but not including the laptop PC and itsapplication software.Example of applications are:1. Database inquiry systems.Small number of brief messages, (usu-ally from the mobile station) with fairlylong responses.2. Computer-aided dispatch (CAD).Large number of messages, (usuallyfrom the base station) with very briefresponses.3. Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL).Using built-in GPS receiver, determinesposition, speed and direction of fleetmembers.GeminiPD+ is made-up of:• A main transceiver• An auxiliary receiver for ParallelDecode (PD)• A 40-Watt power amplifier (35-Watt for800 MHz model, 25W for 900MHzmodel),• A Gemini Control Unit (GCU) withDSP driven modem• An optional integrated OEM GPSreceiver.1 1 The Gemini PD+ Lite model has no GPS.1.2.1 Features• One-piece integrated design in a ruggeddie-cast aluminum chassis.• Parallel Decode (PD) technology fea-turing dual receivers for added decodesensitivity in multi-path and fading en-vironments.• Sophisticated DSP-based modem designprovides added system performance,fewer retries and more effectivethroughput.• Automatic channel changing for im-proved roaming capabilities.• Built–in, up to 16-channel flash –EEPROM programmable synthesizedradio transceiver with automaticchannel selection.• Models with on-air data speeds andmodulation types as follows:Channel spacingModulationtype 12.5 kHz NPSPAC&900MHz 25 kHz9.6 kb/s 9.6 kb/s 9.6 kb/sDGMSK28.0 kb/s 8.0 kb/s 19.2 kb/s16 kb/s 16 kb/s 32 kb/sxRC4FSK214.4 kb/s 14.4 kb/s 25.6 kb/s• 3 available user ports using standardRS-232 interface via built-inmultiplexer.• Half-duplex operation.• Out-of-band signaling enables transmis-sion of GPS1 reports with no effect onsystem performance.• On-air compatible with GeminiPD at allspeeds (except 32 kb/s) and withMobilPac/R at 9600 b/s and 19200 b/s(DGFSK)2• 3 times faster CPU and 4 times moreDSP memory for future speed upgrade 2 Networks must use common modulation, bitand baud rates.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide21.2.2 ConfigurationGeminiPD+ is factory configured based oneach customer network system require-ments, usually by Dataradio System Engi-neering. Configuration is not changeable inthe field without notifying Dataradio.1.3 Factory TechnicalSupport The Technical Support departments ofDATARADIO provide customer assistance ontechnical problems and serve as an interfacewith factory repair facilities. They can bereached in the following ways: DATARADIO Inc. 5500 Royalmount Ave, suite 200 Town of Mount Royal Quebec, Canada H4P 1H7 Technical support hours: Monday to Friday9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Eastern Time phone: +1 514 737-0020fax: +1 514 737-7883Email address: support@dataradio.com or DATARADIO Corp. 6160 Peachtree Dunwoody RD., suite C-200 Atlanta, Georgia 30328 Technical support hours: Monday to Friday8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Eastern Time phone: 1 770 392-0002 fax: 1 770 392-9199 Email address: drctech@dataradio.com1.4 Product Warranty Warranty information may be obtained bycontacting your sales representative.1.5 Replacement Parts This product is not field serviceable, exceptby the replacement of a complete unit. Spe-cialized equipment and training is requiredto repair the GCU board and radio modules. Contact Technical Support for service in-formation before returning equipment. ATechnical Support representative may sug-gest a solution eliminating the need to returnequipment.1.5.1 Factory Repair When returning equipment for repair, youmust request an RMA (Returned MaterialAuthorization) number. The Tech Supportrepresentative will ask you several questionsto clearly identify the problem. Please givethe representative the name of a contact per-son who is familiar with the problem,should questions arise during servicing ofthe unit. Customers are responsible for shippingcharges for returned units. Units in warrantywill be repaired free of charge unless thereis evidence of abuse or damage beyond theterms of the warranty. Units out of warrantywill be subject to service charges. Informa-tion about these charges is available fromTechnical Support.1.6 UnpackingWhen ready for installation, carefully un-pack your GeminiPD+ kit (p/n 023 6000-001)shipping carton and identify each item aslisted below:• One GeminiPD+• Installation mounting bracket• Power cable – 22 feet (6.7 meters)• Small parts kitIf damage has occurred to the equipmentduring shipment, file a claim with the carrierimmediately.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide32. Installation2.1 Planning the Installation2.1.1 OverviewTo ensure trouble-free, efficient installation,start by inspecting the vehicle to determinethe optimum position for GeminiPD+ and itsantennas as well as the routing of all associ-ated cabling and wiring.2.1.2 LocationOften, installations in cars are done in thetrunk, underneath the back window ledge oron the trunk floor. In vans and small trucks,it is usually done in the back of the vehicle.In large vehicles, it is often done in the frontcabin.Be sure to place the GeminiPD+ unit in such away that:• The LEDs can be seen (as an aid introubleshooting)• Access to the antenna DE-9 connectorsis possible without removing the unit• Sufficient air may flow around the unitto provide adequate coolingGeminiPD+ is not fully waterproof, thereforeit should be mounted sufficiently away froman opened trunk lid or opened tailgate, win-dows or doors to avoid exposure to rainand/or snow. It also minimizes the chancethat material can be accidentally thrown onthe unit or of someone bumping against it.2.1.3 Cable PathTry to route the cables away from locationswhere they would be exposed to heat (ex-haust pipes, mufflers, tailpipes, etc.), batteryacid, sharp edges, mechanical damage orwhere they would be a nuisance to automo-bile mechanics, the driver or the passengers.Keep wiring away from automotive com-puter modules, other electronic modules andignition circuits to help prevent interferencebetween these components and radioequipment.Try using existing holes in firewall andtrunk wall and the channels above and be-low or beneath the doors, channels throughdoors and window columns that are con-venient to run cables and wires.Whenever possible, install conduit in whichto run the cables.2.2 WarningsBefore starting installation, review all of thefollowing warnings.2.2.1 RF Radiation warningThe Federal Communications Commission(FCC), with its action in the GeneralDocket, 79-144, March 13, 1985, hasadopted a safety standard for the human ex-posure to radio frequency electromagneticenergy emitted by FCC-regulated equip-ment. Only proper installation of the trans-ceiver antenna of GeminiPD+ as summarizedin section 2.5 will result in user exposuresubstantially below the FCC recommendedlimits.Qualified personnel must do all antenna in-stallations. See paragraph 2.5.2 for recom-mended antenna positioning.Transmissions when persons or animals out-side the vehicle are within two feet of theantenna may result in radio energy radiationburns or related injuries.2.2.2 Interference with vehicularelectronicsCertain vehicle electronic devices may beprone to malfunction due to lack of protec-tion from radio frequency energy presentwhen transmitting. It includes, and is not limited to:- Electronic fuel injection systems- Electronic anti-skid braking systems- Electronic cruise control systemsIf the installation vehicle contains suchequipment, consult the dealer for the makeof vehicle and enlist his aid in determiningif such electronic circuits will perform nor-mally when the radio is transmitting.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide42.2.3 Secure mountingFor vehicle occupant(s) safety, mountGeminiPD+ securely so that the unit will notbreak loose in case of an accident or violentmaneuvers.2.2.4 Explosive environmentsOperation of vehicular radio transmitters inexplosive environments may be hazardousand conventional safety precautions mustprevail. These include and are not limitedto:- Transmitting while fuelling the vehicle.Do not carry fuel containers in the samecompartment as GeminiPD+.- Dynamite blasting caps may explodewhen transmitting radio operation takesplace within 500 feet. Always obey the“Turn Off Two-Way Radios” signsposted at sites where dynamite is beingused.If transporting blasting caps:a) Carry the blasting caps in an appropriatemetal container having a soft cushioninglining.b) Suppress transmissions whenever theblasting caps container is being loadedor unloaded into or from the vehicle.Check applicable local bylaws.2.2.5 Installation in vehiclespowered by liquefied gas.GeminiPD+ installations in vehicles poweredby liquefied petroleum gas with the LP-gascontainer in the trunk or other sealed-offspace within the interior of the vehicle mustconform to the National Fire Protection As-sociation Standard NFPA 58 which re-quires:- Space containing radio equipment shallbe isolated by a seal from the spacecontaining the LP-gas container and itsfittings.- Outside filling connections shall be usedfor the LP-gas container.The LP-gas container space shall be ventedto the outside of the vehicle.2.3 Physical Unit2.3.1 Recommended tools andsupplies• Electric drill for mounting holes• Hammer and center punch• Tie-wraps• Drills and circle cutters as needed ac-cording the size of screws (or nuts andbolts) used.• In-line “Power meter” capable of meas-uring forward and reflected power at theoperating frequency of the radio.2.3.2 Physical mounting ofGeminiPD+Start by running all the cables (DC power,PC RS-232 as well as all antennas cabling)prior to mounting GeminiPD+ to assure thefeasibility of the planned cable routing. Besure to leave sufficient slack in each cableso the GeminiPD+ may be removed from themounting bracket for servicing with thepower applied and the antenna attached.GeminiPD+ is ready for installation.Cautions:• When drilling mountingholes, be careful to avoid dam-aging some vital part of the ve-hicle such as fuel tanks, trans-mission housing etc. Alwayscheck how far the mountingscrews extend below themounting surface prior to in-stallation.• Use of drill bit stops ishighly recommended.• After drilling, remove allmetal shavings before installingscrews.• Do not overtighten self-tapping screws.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide51. Once you have found a suitable mount-ing position for GeminiPD+, hold the unitand the unattached mounting bracket inthe proposed mounting position andcheck that there is clearance behind theunit for the heatsink, cables, etc. Checkthat the position provides a large enoughflat surface that the bracket will not bedistorted when installed.Figure 1 - Mounting plate and slot dimensions2. Using the installation bracket as a tem-plate, mark the four locations for drill-ing (see Figure 1). Again, ensure thatdrilling at the selected points is safe andwill not cause damage.3. Indent the drilling positions with a cen-ter punch.4. Drill holes sized for the self-tappingscrews or for the nuts, bolts and lockwashers used.Caution: Slightly reduce the size of thedrilled holes when using self-tappingscrews in thin metal.Figure 2 - Bracket installation5. Install the bracket without distorting.6. Securely mount GeminiPD+ to the in-stalled bracket using the four supplied8x40 black machine screws.7. Drill any additional holes as requiredfor routing all cables and fit holes withsuitable grommets or bushingswhenever required.2.4 Electrical installation2.4.1 Electrical requirementsGeminiPD+ is designed to operate from a13.8Vdc nominal car battery (negativeground) and requires currents up to 15.0A. Itwill tolerate a supply voltage range of 10.9volts to 16.3 volts.In vehicles with a 24 VDC electrical system(mostly in trucks), it is essential to provide asuitably rated 24/12 VDC converter to iso-late the unit from the battery and protect itagainst excessive voltage.Warnings:Always disconnect GeminiPD+’s DCpower lead before connecting asecond battery, using power fromanother vehicle or power boosting(e.g. when “jump starting” thevehicle).2.4.2 Routing of power cable1. Start by disconnecting the vehicle’sbattery unless specifically prohibitedfrom doing so by the customer, vehiclemanufacturer, agent or supplier.Note:In this event, exercise ex-treme caution throughoutthe installation and fit thefuse only when the installa-tion is complete.2. The 22 feet (6.7 meters) long powercable consists of three wires attached toa Packard Electric “Weather-Pack” con-nector (DC power Connector).2.5"6.0"1.0"0.2"
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide6The DC Power connector has:• At position “A”, the smaller redswitch-sense wire (commonly to igni-tion)• At position “B”, the blue ground wire• At position “C”, a larger red B+ DCpower wire (MUST be unswitched)Figure 3 - DC Power Connector3. Place this connector at GeminiPD+’s ra-dio power input location. Do not con-nect at this time. See paragraph 2.6,“Completing the physical installation”.4. Carefully route both the B and the Cwires to where the in-line fuse holderwill be installed, usually as close to thevehicle’s battery as practicable. Ensurethat leads do not chafe on any metalpart(s). Secure the wires at several lo-cations along their length.Caution:Use proper crimping tool.Common pliers are NOTacceptable.Warning:The DC Power lead must beunswitched5. Insert the negative (blue) lead into oneof the appropriate connector lug andcrimp solidly to force the metal contactsonto the wires.6. Repeat the step above for connecting thered DC power lead.7. Attach the positive lead at the batterypositive terminal. Attach the negativewire at the vehicle end of the batteryground cable.If the negative cable is connecteddirectly to the battery negativeterminal, it should be fused incase of failure of the vehicle’sground cable.Ensure tight and secure connections.8. Fasten the fuse holder and leads.9. Carefully route the A wire to where theconnection will be made for switchsensing.• Connect to “Ignition” if you wish tohave GeminiPD+ turning ON andOFF dependent on the vehicle’s ig-nition key.• Connect to “Accessory” if you wishGeminiPD+ to be available when theengine is not running, but still de-pendent on the ignition key.• Connect to a user-supplied controlswitch.• In installations equipped with a“ChargeGuard”, connect to thecontrolled-side of the ChargeGuard(remembering that the DC Powerlead must NOT be switched).10. Make appropriate connections.Cautions:Where scraping to bare metal wasrequired, and at the battery postswhere wire ends and lugs may beexposed, apply anti-corrosion com-pound.Insert the fuse only when installa-tion is complete and ready to test.11. At the GeminiPD+ position, neatly coilcable slack and attach securely.ABCIGNITION(Small red wire)GROUND(Blue wire)13.8VDC B+ (Fused Red wire) SEAL(DO NOT REMOVE)
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide72.5 AntennaTo meet the FCC’s RF Exposure Guide-lines, the main transmitter antenna must bevehicle-mounted to provide a separationdistance of 50 cm or more from all personsand the antenna gain must not exceed 5dBiwith a 1.6dB cable loss.2.5.1 Recommended tools andsupplies• circle cutter, hole saw or socket punchfor antenna• Mini-UHF Crimp tool2.5.2 PlanningReferring to Figure 4, GeminiPD+ commonlyuses three separate antennas:• “T” - Main transceiver -Constraints are the limit of 50 cm (seesection 2.5 above) and omni-directionalfactors• “R” - Auxiliary receiver –Constraints are the receiver spacing ofat least 5/8 λ (wavelength) from trans-ceiver antenna and omni-directional re-quirements• “G” - Global Positioning System(GPS)*Constraints are TX spacing of at least24-in/60.96 cm from all transmittingantennas and a clear view of the sky.For the optimum antenna spacing at the fre-quency you are using, consult System Engi-neering.For installation of ground-plane dependentantennas, the center of the metal surfaceused for mounting is preferable for bestomni-directional pattern.For ground-plane independent antennas,installation may be close to the edges of thesurface.The GeminiPD+ Lite model has no GPS.Figure 4 - Antenna spacingInstall the antennas in one of the followingpositions:- Most preferred for all antennas: center-line of roof. For transmitter antenna, itis the ONLY acceptable position.- Less preferred for receiver antenna:trunk lid, providing distance to trans-mitting antenna is respected whether lidis opened or closed.- Much less preferred, but permissible forreceiver antenna: left or right rear fend-ers, just in back of rear window- Least preferred, but permissible for re-ceiver antenna: left or right front fend-ers, ahead of windshieldNote: Proximity to other vehicle-mountedantennas may cause mutual inter-ference especially at higher fre-quencies.GMPE≥≥≥≥5/8λλλλ(UHF: 18"/46cm800MHz: 9"/23cm900MHz: 8”/21cm)RT50cm19.7in.≥≥≥≥24in.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide82.5.3 Antenna Installation1. Route good quality 50-ohm coaxial ca-bles (e.g. RG-223) from each of the se-lected antenna positions to the positionwhere the GeminiPD+ unit is mounted.2. Terminate the end at each of the antennapositions with the appropriate connectorfor the antenna used and make the con-nection.3. At the GeminiPD+ position, cut the threecables to length and terminate with theappropriate plug. For the transceiverand the auxiliary cables, use a Mini-UHF crimp plug using an appropriatecrimping tool. For the GPS, use a SMAconnector.4. Positively identify the transceiver mini-UHF plug and connect to the left rear ofGeminiPD+.5. Positively identify the auxiliary receivermini-UHF plug and connect to the frontleft of GeminiPD+ to the RX position.6. Connect the SMA connector to theGPS* position below the auxiliary con-nector position.7. Do not skip this last step, trust us; it isan important one. To complete the in-stallation, tie-wrap together the auxil-iary and the GPS* antenna cables at apoint about two inches in front of theunit. It will be much easier hereafter tocorrectly identify which mini-UHF pluggoes where. You DO NOT want to crossthe auxiliary plug with the transceiverplug.2.6. Completing the physicalInstallation.To complete the physical installation andprior to testing GeminiPD+:• Connect DC Power cable’s connector toGeminiPD+’s until you hear a click as thetwo parts snap together.• Re-check that all other connections aresecure (antennas, PC, etc.)• Switch vehicle ignition ON.You are now ready to check for normal op-eration and to run the Radio InstallationSoftware (WinRIS) program for testing ortrouble-shooting.2.7. Checking out NormaloperationCheck that the vehicle ignition is ON.1. Check for proper operation of theGeminiPD+’s LEDs as per Table 1 insection 3.12. Using the WinRIS program and an in-line wattmeter, check forward & reversepower to confirm main antenna installa-tion (as per section 4).3. Using WinRIS, check the RF Data Linkwith a base station that can be heard (asper section 4.3.2.If user application and its base stationare available, test the installation bygoing through a normal sequence oftransmitting and receiving messages.* The GeminiPD+ Lite model has no GPS.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide93. Operating Description3.1 Front & Rear PanelsThe front panel includes:• One mini-UHF type female antenna connector for the auxiliary receiver• One SMA type female connector for the GPS receiver (not installed on GeminiPD+ Lite model)• Two LED indicators• Three DE-9F RS232 portsThe rear panel includes:• One mini-UHF type female antenna connector for the main transceiver• One 3-pin pigtailed DC Power connector with ignition senseFigure 5 - Front and rear panels®RX TXPWR PGM PC/SETUPDEV-1DEV-2DEV-3RXGPSGemini/PD6.000"2.000"
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide10Table 1 - GeminiPD+ LEDs indicationsGeminiPD+ LEDs indicationsPower-on Sequence (LEDs are paired) Normal Operation (LEDs are independent)PWR RX / TX Indication PWR Indication RX / TX IndicationRed Red Normal boot-up start(10 to 27 sec.) Green* Normal ready state Off No network activityAmber Off Then 8 seconds tocompleting boot-upNormalGreen Off Normal stateAmber* 1 Pulse/sec.Sufficient satellitesacquired by GPS Green Receiving packets“DBA sync” allows transmitRed Off Hardware failure Amber Receiving packets“DBA out-of-sync” preventstransmitErrorsSlowRed/Green Red Software failure(firmware erased) Red TransmittingSpecialFastRed/Green Red Programming inprogress* For 800MHz model (using 25% duty cycle limit) PWR lit Green / Flashing Amber = normal indication (GPS 1pulse persec.) PWR lit Amber / Flashing Green = exceeded duty cycle (GPS 1pps)3.2 DTE Port InterfaceFor all three ports:DE-9 Fpin # Function1DCD – from GeminiPD+, normally asserted2 RXD – data from GeminiPD+3 TXD – data to GeminiPD+4 DTR – to GeminiPD+, handshaking5 Ground6 DSR – from GeminiPD+, tied to VCCthrough current limiting resistor7 RTS - to GeminiPD+, handshaking8 CTS – from GeminiPD+, handshaking9 AUX - auxiliary input to GeminiPD+,(for port 2: “Officer requires assistance”Alarm input)It may be activated by (normally open) drycontact pull-up to the port’s DSR output. Itmay also tolerate user pull-up to external+12 VDC (car battery), but an isolated drycontact is preferred due to the risk ofnoise-related false alarms caused by thevehicle’s electrical system.A +3 to +12 V signal at this pin will send aDMP “x” (On) message to the base.An open or ground signal will send a DMP“y” (Off) message.Messages are only sent when a signaltransition occurs.See Appendix “A” on page 17 for furtherdetails.We recommend the use of a shielded 9-wire ca-ble with all pins connected. These ports can beused for unit configuration, maintenance & ad-justment as well to connect user applications.3.2.1 RS-232 Interface Signal LevelsIn the descriptions of data signals, the followingconventions are used:Table 2 - RS-232 Signal LevelsTerm Alternates Signal level1 asserted, spacing +3 to +15 VOFF dropped, marking -3 to -15 V
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide114. Trouble-Shooting and TestingThe checks described below should be done at annual intervals or whenever deterioration in performanceis noted.4.1 Equipment Required• 13.8 VDC (nominal) car battery, or13.8 VDC/20A regulated power supply (In the case the unit is not installed in a vehicle)• In-line watt meter (50W range)• Radio service monitor (IFR or equivalent).• Cable with mini-UHF male connector to connect GeminiPD+ to the service monitor.• WinRIS version 3.11 or later*4.2 Basic TestsRecommended checks:1. Transmit and Reverse power output2. Carrier frequency error3. Frequency deviation4. Receivers RSSI Check5. RF Data Link test between a Gemini and a base station.6. GPS test (not required on GeminiPD+ Lite model).- Refer to Table 3 and Table 4 for checks 1 to 5.- Refer to paragraph 4.3.1 for check 6.Important note: Before proceeding make sure that the service monitor has been recently calibratedand has warmed up for at least the time specified by its manufacturer.Some reported frequency and deviation problems have actually been erroneous indications from servicemonitors that have not adequately warmed up. This is particularly likely when field service is done dur-ing winter months* To find out how to launch the Windows-based software alignment and system-testing tool WinRIS,please refer to the readme.txt file on the application’s installation diskette. For functional details of thenumerous buttons and menu-selectable items available, please refer to the program’s context sensitivehelp. It is also possible to access the help information via the F1 key.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide12 Table 3 - Tests, Full Channel UnitsCHECKLIST ASTEP ACTION EXPECTED RESULTS at25°°°°CMEASURE WITH IF NOT?GeminiPD+ units are set and characterized at the factory to optimize performances. It is not recommended to try to readjust the units.1Power-up LED Sequence as per Table 1 - GeminiPD+ LEDs indications2Connect and save configPress WinRIS Get button as per WinRIS Help content3Main transceiver OutputPowerPress TX (Unmod)UHF: 40 watts800MHz: 35 wattsboth +10%, -10%Factory-settable down to 10watts (5 watts for 800MHzmodel) as per customer re-questService monitorset to read poweror50W in-line watt-meterRefer to factory technicalsupport.4Main transceiver ReflectedPowerPress TXON (Unmod)< 5% of forward power or asspecified by System Eng. 10W in-line watt-meter Check for bad connections,damaged coax cable, etc.5Carrier Frequency ErrorPress TX (Unmod) ± 300 Hz Service monitorset to read fre-quency errorRefer to factory technicalsupport.Full channel unitxRC4FSK UHF 800 US 800 CA32.0 kb/s ±4.3 ±3.6 ±3.625.6 kb/s ±4.0 ±3.7 ±3.7DGFSK UHF 800 US 800 CA19.2 kb/s ±4.0 ±4.0 ±4.09.6 kb/s ±3.0 ±3.0 ±3.04TX Deviation (in kHz)Press TXON (Modulated) Carrier will be modulated witha 1 kHz tone.Tolerance is +5%, -10% for all bit rates.Service monitor setto read deviation (IF filter set to Midor 30 kHz position)Refer to factory technicalsupport.5RF Data Link testUse the addressing function’s“Send” button to dynamicallytest transmissionsLook for“Delivery confirmed” on theWinRIS Status bar.Refer to section4.3.2 and to Win-RIS Help content.Check on the WinRIS RSSI bargraph if the base station is withinrange (i.e. better than -107dBm)orRefer to factory technicalsupport.6Set the service monitor to generate at the unit antenna jack the RF levels mentioned below. The carrier generatedshould be modulated with a 1.0 kHz tone at deviation as per step 4 above.7Main Rec. RSSI checks-70dBm-110dBm-120dBm- 70 dBm +/-3-110 dBm +/-3-120 dBm +/- 3 WinRIS bar graph8Aux Receiverrepeat as per step 7 same as step 7 WinRIS bar graphThe RSSI checks give a gen-eral indication of receivers'healthRefer to factory technicalsupport only if RX data per-formance degradation is no-ticed combined to out of tol-erance RSSI readings.1 (unless you have set a lower value). Note that readings less than 40 watts (UHF model) or 35 watts (800MHz model) may be dueto losses in cables used for testing. Check also your wattmeter frequency calibration curve. Do not be too ready to condemn thetransmitter.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide13Table 4 - Tests, NPSPAC & Half Channel UnitsCHECKLIST BSTEP ACTION EXPECTED RESULTS at25°°°°CMEASURE WITH IF NOT?GeminiPD+ units are set and characterized at the factory to optimize performances. It is not recommended to try to readjust the units.1Power-up LED Sequence as per Table 1 - GeminiPD+ LEDs indications2Connect and save configPress WinRIS Get button as per WinRIS Help content3Main transceiver OutputPowerPress TX (Unmod)UHF: 40 watts800MHz: 35 watts900MHz: 25 wattsall +10%, -10%; Factory-settabledown to 10 watts (5 watts for800MHz model) as per customerrequestService monitor set toread poweror50W in-line wattmeterRefer to factory technicalsupport.4Main transceiver ReflectedPowerPress TXON (Unmod)< 5% of forward power or asspecified by System Eng. 10W in-line wattmeter Check for bad connections,damaged coax cable, etc.5Carrier Frequency ErrorPress TX (Unmod) ± 300 Hz Service monitor set toread frequency error Refer to factory technicalsupport.Special channel unitxRC4FSK 800 US(NPSPAC) 900 US19.2 kb/s ±2.1 ±2.216.0 kb/s ±2.4 ±2.8DGFSK 800 US 900 US9.6 kb/s ±2.5 ±3.28.0 kb/s ±2.5 ±3.5Half channel unitxRC4FSK UHF 800 US 800 CA16.0 kb/s ±1.9 ±1.9 ±1.914.4 kb/s ±2.3 ±2.3 ±2.3DGFSK UHF 800 US 800 CA9.6 kb/s ±2.5 ±2.5 ±2.58.0 kb/s ±1.5 ±1.5 ±1.54TX Deviation (in kHz)Press TXON (Modulated) Carrier will be modulated witha 1 kHz tone.Tolerance is +5%, -10% for all bit rates.Service monitor set toread deviation (IF filter set to Mid or30 kHz position)Refer to factory technicalsupport.5RF Data Link testUse the base station addressfunction and “Send” button todynamically test the linkLook for“Delivery confirmed” on theWinRIS Status bar.Refer to section4.3.2 and toWinRIS Helpcontent.Check on the WinRIS RSSI bargraph if the base station is withinrange (i.e. better than -107dBm) orRefer to factory technical support.6Set the service monitor to generate at the unit antenna jack the RF levels mentioned below. The carrier generatedshould be modulated with a 1.0 kHz tone at deviation as per step 4 above.7Main Receiver RSSI checks-70dBm, -110dBm, -120dBm - 70 dBm +/-3 dB-110 dBm +/-3 dB-120 dBm +/- 3 dBWinRIS bargraph8Aux. Receiver RSSI checksrepeat as per step 7 same as in step 7 above WinRIS bargraphThe RSSI checks give a general indi-cation of receivers' healthRefer to factory technical supportonly if RX data performance degra-dation is noticed combined to out oftolerance RSSI readings.1 (unless you have set a lower value). Note that readings less than 40 watts (UHF model) or 35 watts (800MHz model) may be due tolosses in cables used for testing. Check also your wattmeter frequency calibration curve. Do not be too ready to condemn the transmitter.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide144.3 Additional test details4.3.1 GPS TestAbout three minutes after ignition is turned-on,the PWR LED on the GeminiPD+ front panelshould flash in amber color at the rate of onepulse per second.1 This indicates that the GPShas acquired the sky position of a sufficientnumber of satellites to arrive at a ground posi-tion solution.If the GPS has a good view of the sky and stillhas not generated any position solution withinthree minutes (it may take up to 10 minutes ormore if the sky view is partially blocked.), thefollowing trouble-shooting procedures should beundertaken to isolate the fault:1) Disconnect the GPS antenna cable connectorfrom the Gemini radio and check for + 5VDC on the center pin of the GPS antennaconnector on the radio using a Digital volt-meter (DVM). If the voltage is present, donot reconnect the cable and proceed to step 2.2) With the DVM, measure resistance betweenthe shell and the center conductor of the GPScable, resistance should be between 100 and300 Ohms, if it measures open or short cir-cuit the GPS antenna is either a passive an-tenna which is the WRONG type, or a defec-tive active antenna, replace with a knowngood active antenna.3) Connect the new antenna to Gemini and waitabout three minutes for the POSITIONACQUIRED indicator to start flashing onGeminiPD+, if not, the Gemini radio or itsGPS receiver is defective 1 Lit green and flashing amber for the 800MHz modelunder 25% duty cycle limit.4.3.2 RF Data Link TestA link test between a mobile and a known basestation can be done using the WinRIS "Address"and "Send" functions. The “Address” and “De-vice” fields, the “Send” button and the “Chat”message screen are used to send messages tospecific mobile or base or to carry out RF test.Start by entering the address of the mobile (orbase station) you wish to send a test message toor test:1- Specify the address:Addresses may be entered by typing directlyin the “Address” field in two ways:- Numerically, the valid address range is1-126.- As an “Alpha-Mapped-Nibble” (AMN) ad-dress, consisting of upper case letters in therange A-P. The valid address range is A toGN.- The base address is usually: 1.- The program may display one of the fol-lowing messages on the status bar:- For Paragon products:“address is not in AMN or number for-mat”- For mobile products:“address is not in the range A – GN”In either case, check that the address entered iswithin the acceptable range, is of a valid formatand correctly typed.2- Enter the Device number for mobile (or basestation).3- Press the Send button.The Chat window reports “Sent to xx mobile”(where xx is mobile name).If test is successful:Status line reports “Delivery confirmed.If test unsuccessful:Chat window reports “Waiting”,Then the Status line reports “Delivery Failed”.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide155. SpecificationsGENERALUHF 800 MHz 900 MHzFrequency 403 - 460MHz1, 450 - 512MHz TX 806 - 824 MHz, RX 851 -869 MHz TX 896 - 901 MHz, RX935 - 941 MHzChannel spacing 12.5 or 25 kHzFrequency Control Digital Synthesizer / uControllerFrequency Stability 1.5 ppmOperating temperature -30°C to +60°C (25°C nominal) @ 95% non-cond. RHModes of Operation Half DuplexNumber of channels 16 internally stored, flash-EEPROM programmableSupply voltage 13.6Vdc nominal (negative ground)10.9 – 16.3 VDCCircuit Protection 15 Amp fuse external,Internal crowbar diode for reverse polarity protectionRX Current at 13.6 VDC < 650 mA Standby (with GPS receiver)TX Current at 13.6 VDC < 15 ATX/RX separation any, 5 MHz typical 45 MHz typical 39 MHz typicalNominal Dimensions 7.1” D x 6.0” W x 2.0” HWeight: < 4.5 lbs.RF input/output Impedance 50 ohms nominalRF connector Main TX/RX: mini-UHF femaleAuxiliary RX: mini-UHF femaleGPS RX: SMA female (Not installed for GeminiPD+ Lite version)Interface connector 3x DE-9F D-subminiatureRECEIVERSensitivity (12 dB SINAD) -116 dBm (< 0.35 µV) *Adjacent channel rejection(Selectivity) 75 dB @25 kHz, 65 @ 12.5 kHzIntermodulation rejection 75 dBFM hum & noise ratio 40 dB @12.5 kHz, 45 dB @ 25 kHz *Spurious ResponseRejection 80 dBConducted spurious -57 dBm* psophometrically weighted filterTRANSMITTERPower output UHF = 10-40 watts 800 MHz = 10-35 watts 900 MHz = 10-25 wattsDuty cycle 25% @ full power, 30 secs. max. TX time (subject to FCC MPE limit)Conducted Spurious -80 dBcFrequency stability 1.5 ppmFM hum and noise ratio 40dB @ 1.5 kHz deviation, 45 dB @ 3.0 kHz deviationAttack time < 10 msOperation Half duplex 1 WARNING:The frequency band 406 to 406.1 MHz is reserved for use by distress beacons and should notbe programmed into the unit.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide16Data rates andModulation typeDGFSK (8000 b/s, 9600 b/s, 19200 b/s)SRRC4FSK (14400 b/s, 16000 b/s,19200b/s, 25600 b/s)RC4FSK (32000 b/s: GeminiPD+ only)UHF 800 MHz 900 MHz–112 dBm at 19200 b/s fullchannel –112 dBm at 19200 b/sfull channel TBD–110 dBm at 25600 b/s fullchannel –109 dBm at 25600 b/sfull channel TBD–107 dBm at 32000 b/s fullchannel –107 dBm at 32000 b/sfull channel TBDPacket Error Rate(for < 1% error, withParallel Decode, at Fc)–112 dBm at 16000 b/sNPSPAC channel TBDProtocol Dataradio Proprietary DBA with OOB AAVL supportDISPLAY and CONTROLS2 status LEDs RX/TX, PWREnvironmental MIL. spec.Environment Categories MIL Spec. 810E OtherMethod ProcedureLow Pressure Operations 500.3 IIHigh Temperature Operations, Storage 501.3 I(A1), IILow Temperature Operations, Storage 502.3 I(C3), II (C1)Temperature Shock Transfer of equipment 503.3 I(AI,C2)Solar Radiation Heat effects 505.3 IRain1Drip rain 506.3 II IEC IP54 only IIHumidity1Induced, Aggravated 507.3 II,IIIDust1Blowing dust 510.3 I IEC IP54Vibration Ground Mobile 514.4 I(8) EIA RS-204C ForestryShock Functional, Bench handling 516.4 I,VI EIA RS-204CFCC / IC CERTIFICATIONS EMISSION DESIGNATORSFCC IC (DOC) Bitrate Baudrate Modulation UHF 800MHz 900MHzUHF EOTGPDA 773195525A 19200 19200 DGMSK 15K0F1D 15K0F1D -16000 16000 DGMSK 15K3FID 15K3F1D -800 MHz EOTGPDB 773195643A 9600 9600 DGMSK 8K60FID 8K60F1D 10K2F1D8000 8000 DGMSK - - 9K92F1D900 MHz EOTGPD9 -32000 16000 RC4FSK 16K5F1D 15K6F1D -25600 12800 SRRC4FSK 15K6F1D 15K6F1D -19200 9600 SRRC4FSK 11K8F1D16000 8000 SRRC4FSK 8K17F1D 10K0F1D 10K7F1D14400 7200 SRRC4FSK 8K67F1D 11K0F1D 9K75F1D 1 MIL Specification not guaranteed with GeminiPD Lite version.
120 20120-103Preliminary GeminiPD+ Installation Guide17Appendix 1 - "Officer Requires Assistance" alarm functionThe contents of this appendix are also available as Technical Instruction Sheet 009 (TIS009),document part number 122 20110-009 dated December 20, 2000.OverviewThe DTE Port Interface pin 9 (AUX) on DEV-2 is used for the “Officer Requires Assistance”alarm function.Intended AudienceThis document is designed for use by System Integrators.Physical ConnectionThis auxiliary input may be activated by (normally open) dry contact pull-up to the port’s DSRoutput. It can also tolerate user pull-up to external +12 VDC (car battery), but an isolated drycontact is preferred due to the risk of noise-related false alarms caused by the vehicle’s electricalsystem.A +3 to +12 V signal at this pin will send a DMP “x” (On) message to the base.An open or ground signal will send a DMP “y” (Off) message.Messages are only sent when a signal transition occurs (debounced for approximately 100 ms).OperationWhen using GeminiPD+ or GeminiPD+ Lite products, activating the “Officer Requires Assistance”alarm input starts emergency communications:• The modem creates DMP “x” or “y” messages.• Any other pending message(s) will be failed to avoid delaying the alarm message on accountof lower priority traffic and to remove non-emergency messages from duty-cycle manage-ment (if applicable). In the case of a “q” message, a D-NAK* will be immediately returned.• Base and Channel hunt will take place for the usual number of retries per base (according toconfiguration) but will cycle forever until D-ACKed1 or Reset1.• Lack of base DBA synch will not prevent transmission to maximize the chance that a basegets the alarm signal. DBA “Freewheel” mode will be forced until the alarm is acknowl-edged. 1 For details on DMP terms, refer to DMP 1.5 manual, version 4.0

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