CalAmp Wireless Networks GPDA GeminiPD User Manual updated
CALAMP WIRELESS NETWORKS INC. GeminiPD updated
Contents
updated user manual
G3
Narrow band
Mobile Radiomodem
Installation Guide
Version 0.04
(Preliminary)
The entire contents of this manual and the Radio Installation Software
described in this manual are copyright 2004 by DATARADIO Inc.
Copyright DATARADIO Inc.
October, 2004
Part no.: 122 20130-004
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Table of Contents
1. PRODUCT OVERVIEW................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 INTENDED AUDIENCE ....................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2.1 Features .................................................................................................................................................. 7
1.2.2 Configuration.......................................................................................................................................... 7
1.3 FACTORY TECHNICAL SUPPORT........................................................................................................................ 8
1.4 PRODUCT WARRANTY ...................................................................................................................................... 8
1.5 REPLACEMENT PARTS....................................................................................................................................... 8
1.5.1 Factory Repair........................................................................................................................................ 8
1.6 UNPACKING ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
2. INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 PLANNING THE INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 9
2.1.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.1.2 Location .................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.1.3 Cable Path............................................................................................................................................... 9
2.2 WARNINGS...................................................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.1 RF Radiation warning........................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.2 Interference with vehicular electronics................................................................................................. 10
2.2.3 Secure mounting.................................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.4 Explosive environments......................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.5 Installation in vehicles powered by liquefied gas. ................................................................................ 10
2.3 PHYSICAL UNIT............................................................................................................................................... 11
2.3.1 Recommended tools and supplies.......................................................................................................... 11
2.3.2 Physical mounting of G3....................................................................................................................... 11
2.4 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................ 12
2.4.1 Electrical requirements......................................................................................................................... 12
2.4.2 Routing of power cable ......................................................................................................................... 12
2.5 ANTENNA ....................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.5.1 Recommended tools and supplies.......................................................................................................... 13
2.5.2 Planning................................................................................................................................................ 14
2.5.3 Antenna Installation.............................................................................................................................. 15
2.6. COMPLETING THE PHYSICAL INSTALLATION. .............................................................................................. 15
2.7. CHECKING OUT NORMAL OPERATION ......................................................................................................... 15
3. OPERATING DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................................... 16
3.1 FRONT & REAR PANELS ................................................................................................................................. 16
3.2 DTE PORT INTERFACE ................................................................................................................................... 17
3.2.1 RS-232 Interface Signal Levels............................................................................................................. 17
4. TROUBLE-SHOOTING AND TESTING ..................................................................................................... 18
4.1 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED ................................................................................................................................... 18
4.2 BASIC TESTS................................................................................................................................................... 18
4.3 ADDITIONAL TEST DETAILS ............................................................................................................................. 20
4.3.1 TX Deviation ......................................................................................................................................... 20
4.3.2 GPS Test................................................................................................................................................ 20
4.3.3 RF Data Link Test................................................................................................................................. 21
5. SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................................................................................................... 22
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FIGURE 1 - MOUNTING PLATE AND SLOT DIMENSIONS.................................................................................................. 11
FIGURE 2 - BRACKET INSTALLATION............................................................................................................................ 12
FIGURE 3 - DC POWER CONNECTOR............................................................................................................................ 12
FIGURE 4 - ANTENNA SPACING..................................................................................................................................... 14
FIGURE 5 - FRONT AND REAR PANELS .......................................................................................................................... 16
TABLE 1 - G3 LEDS INDICATIONS................................................................................................................................17
TABLE 2 - DTE PORT PIN FUNCTIONS .......................................................................................................................... 17
TABLE 3 - RS-232 SIGNAL LEVELS.............................................................................................................................. 17
TABLE 4 – TEST CHECKLIST ........................................................................................................................................ 19
TABLE 5 - TX DEVIATION............................................................................................................................................ 20
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What's New in this version
History
Version 0.04 Prelim, October 2004
• Introduction of UHF Half Channel(12.5kHz channels) band G3 product.
Released as part of FCC and Industry Canada reports.
Version 0.03 Prelim, September 2004
• Introduction of NPSPAC (12.5kHz channels) band G3 product. Re-
leased as part of FCC and Industry Canada reports.
Version 0.02 Prelim, August 2004
• Introduction of narrow (12.5kHz channels) band G3 product. Re-
leased as part of Industry Canada reports.
Version 0.01 Prelim, April 2004
• Introduction of narrow band (25kHz channels) G3 product. Released
as part of FCC reports.
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Definitions
The following terms are used throughout this document.
Item Definition
DCE Data Communications Equipment. This designation defines the direction (input
or output) of the various RS-232 interface signals. Modems are always wired as
DCE.
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 as
PCs, are wired as DTE.
G3 Third generation of Gemini/PD products. Runs up to 64 kb/s in 25kHz channel.
HDX Half Duplex. A unit that uses separate transmit and receive frequencies, but
which may not transmit and receive simultaneously.
RS-232 Industry–standard interface for data transfer.
WinRIS Windows © Radio Installation Software. This software allows basic tests and
unit configuration.
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1. PRODUCT OVERVIEW
This document provides the information required for the installation, operation, and verification of the
DATARADIO G3.
1.1 Intended Audience
This document is designed for use by engineering design, installation, and maintenance personnel.
1.2 General Description
G3 is a mobile radiomodem aimed at the public safety and public utility markets to meet demand for high
speed and high throughput. It integrates all the necessary hardware for data-only vehicular installations up to
but not including the laptop PC and its application software.
Example of applications are:
1. Database inquiry systems.
Small number of brief messages, (usually from the mobile station) with fairly long responses.
2. Computer-aided dispatch (CAD).
Large number of messages, (usually from the base station) with very brief responses.
3. Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL).
Using built-in GPS receiver, determines position, speed and direction of fleet members.
G3 is made-up of:
• A main transceiver
• An auxiliary receiver for Parallel Decode (PD)
• A power amplifier (40-Watt for UHF, 35-Watt for 800 MHz, 25-Watt for 900MHz models)
• A Gemini Processor/Modem board with DSP modem
• An integrated OEM 12-channel GPS receiver.
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1.2.1 Features
• One-piece integrated design in a rugged die-cast aluminum chassis.
• Parallel Decode™ (PD) technology featuring dual receivers for added decode sensitivity in
multi-path and fading environments.
• Sophisticated DSP-based modem design provides added system performance, fewer retries and
more effective throughput.
• Automatic channel changing for improved roaming capabilities.
• Built–in, up to 16-channel flash-programmable synthesized radio transceiver with automatic
channel selection.
• Models with on-air data speeds and modulation types as follows:
Channel spacing
Modulation
type 12.5 kHz NPSPAC & 900 MHz 25 kHz
32.0 kb/s 32.0 kb/s 64 kb/s
SRC16FSK 28.8 kb/s 28.8 kb/s 57.6 kb/s
21.6 kb/s 24.0 kb/s 43.2 kb/s
SRC8FSK
24.0 kb/s 28.8 kb/s 48 kb/s
• One RJ-45 10BaseT Ethernet port
• Two available user ports using standard RS-232 interface via built-in multiplexer.
• One USB port
• Half-duplex operation.
• Out-of-band signaling enables transmission of GPS reports with no effect on system
performance.
• Next generation high efficiency airlink E-DBA protocol
1.2.2 Configuration
G3 is factory configured based on each customer network system requirements, usually by Dataradio
System Engineering. Configuration is not changeable in the field without notifying Dataradio.
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1.3 Factory Technical Support
The Technical Support departments of DATARADIO provide customer assistance on technical problems
and serve as an interface with factory repair facilities. They can be reached in the following ways:
DATARADIO Inc.
5500 Royalmount Ave, suite 200
Town of Mount Royal
Quebec, Canada H4P 1H7
Technical support hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Eastern Time
phone: +1 514 737-0020
fax: +1 514 737-7883
Email address: support@dataradio.com
DATARADIO Corp.
6160 Peachtree Dunwoody RD., suite C-200
Atlanta, Georgia 30328
Technical support hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Eastern Time
phone: 1 770 392-0002
fax: 1 770 392-9199
Email address: drctech@dataradio.com
1.4 Product Warranty
Warranty information may be obtained by contacting your sales representative.
1.5 Replacement Parts
This product is not field-serviceable, except by the replacement of a complete unit. Specialized equip-
ment and training is required to repair the processor and radio boards.
Contact Technical Support for service information before returning equipment. A Technical Support rep-
resentative may suggest a solution eliminating the need to return equipment.
1.5.1 Factory Repair
When returning equipment for repair, you must request an RMA (Returned Material Authorization)
number. The Tech Support representative will ask you several questions to clearly identify the problem.
Please give the representative the name of a contact person, who is familiar with the problem, should
questions arise during servicing of the unit.
Customers are responsible for shipping charges for returned units. Units in warranty will be repaired free
of charge unless there is evidence of abuse or damage beyond the terms of the warranty. Units out of
warranty will be subject to service charges. Information about these charges is available from Technical
Support.
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1.6 Unpacking
When ready for installation, carefully unpack your G3 kit (p/n 023 6000-101) shipping carton and iden-
tify each item as listed below:
• One G3
• Installation mounting bracket
• Power cable – 22 feet (6.7 meters)
• Small parts kit
If damage has occurred to the equipment during shipment, file a claim with the carrier immediately.
2. Installation
2.1 Planning the Installation
2.1.1 Overview
To ensure trouble-free, efficient installation, start by inspecting the vehicle to determine the optimum
position for G3 and its antennas as well as the routing of all associated cabling and wiring.
2.1.2 Location
Often, installations in cars are done in the trunk, underneath the back window ledge or on 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 front cabin.
Be sure to place the G3 unit in such a way that:
• The LEDs can be seen (as an aid in troubleshooting)
• Access to the antenna connectors is possible without removing the unit
• Sufficient air may flow around the unit to provide adequate cooling
G3 is not fully waterproof, therefore it should be mounted sufficiently away from an opened trunk lid or
opened tailgate, windows or doors to avoid exposure to rain and/or snow. It also minimizes the chance
that material can be accidentally thrown on the unit or of someone bumping against it.
2.1.3 Cable Path
Try to route the cables away from locations where they would be exposed to heat (exhaust pipes, muf-
flers, tailpipes, etc.), battery acid, sharp edges, mechanical damage or where they would be a nuisance to
automobile mechanics, the driver or the passengers.
Keep wiring away from automotive computer modules, other electronic modules and ignition circuits to
help prevent interference between these components and radio equipment.
Try using existing holes in firewall and trunk wall and the channels above and below or beneath the
doors, channels through doors and window columns that are convenient to run cables and wires.
Whenever possible, install conduit in which to run the cables.
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2.2 Warnings
Before starting installation, review all of the following warnings.
2.2.1 RF Radiation warning
Recommended safety guidelines for the human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy are
contained in the Canadian Safety Code 6 and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Bulletin
65. Proper installation of the transceiver antenna of G3 as summarized in section 2.5 will result in user
exposure substantially below the recommended limits for the general public.
Qualified personnel must do all antenna installations. See paragraph 2.5.2 for recommended antenna
positioning.
Transmissions when persons or animals outside the vehicle are within two feet of the antenna may result
in radio energy radiation burns or related injuries.
2.2.2 Interference with vehicular electronics
Certain vehicle electronic devices may be prone to malfunction due to lack of protection from radio fre-
quency energy present when transmitting.
It includes, and is not limited to:
• Electronic fuel injection systems
• Electronic anti-skid braking systems
• Electronic cruise control systems
If the installation vehicle contains such equipment, consult the dealer for the make of vehicle and enlist
his aid in determining if such electronic circuits will perform normally when the radio is transmitting.
2.2.3 Secure mounting
For vehicle occupant(s) safety, mount G3 securely so that the unit will not break loose in case of an acci-
dent or violent maneuvers.
2.2.4 Explosive environments
Operation of vehicular radio transmitters in explosive environments may be hazardous and conventional
safety precautions must prevail. These include and are not limited to:
• Transmitting while fuelling the vehicle. Do not carry fuel containers in the same compartment as
G3.
• Dynamite blasting caps may explode when transmitting radio operation takes place within 500
feet. Always obey the “Turn Off Two-Way Radios” signs posted at sites where dynamite is
being used.
If transporting blasting caps:
a) Carry the blasting caps in an appropriate metal container having a soft cushioning lining.
b) Suppress transmissions whenever the blasting caps container is being loaded or unloaded into or
from the vehicle.
Check applicable local bylaws.
2.2.5 Installation in vehicles powered by liquefied gas.
G3 installations in vehicles powered by liquefied petroleum gas with the LP-gas container in the trunk or
other sealed-off space within the interior of the vehicle must conform to the National Fire Protection As-
sociation Standard NFPA 58 which requires:
• Space containing radio equipment shall be isolated by a seal from the space containing the LP-
gas container and its fittings.
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• Outside filling connections shall be used for the LP-gas container.
The LP-gas container space shall be vented to the outside of the vehicle.
2.3 Physical Unit
2.3.1 Recommended tools and supplies
• Electric drill for mounting holes
• Hammer and center punch
• Tie-wraps
• Drills and circle cutters as needed according the size of screws (or nuts and bolts) used.
• In-line “Power meter” capable of measuring forward and reflected power at the operating fre-
quency of the radio.
2.3.2 Physical mounting of G3
a) Start by running all the cables (DC power, PC RS-232 as well as all antennas cabling) prior to
mounting G3 to assure the feasibility of the planned cable routing.
b) Be sure to leave sufficient slack in each cable so the G3 may be removed from the mounting
bracket for servicing with the power applied and the antenna attached.
c) G3 is ready for installation.
Cautions:
• When drilling mounting holes, be careful to avoid damaging some vital part of the vehi-
cle such as fuel tanks, transmission housing etc. Always check how far the mounting
screws extend below the mounting surface prior to installation.
• Use of drill bit stops is highly recommended.
• After drilling, remove all metal shavings before installing screws.
• Do not overtighten self-tapping screws.
1. Once you have found a suitable mounting position for G3, hold the unit and the unattached mounting
bracket in the proposed mounting position and check that there is clearance behind the unit for the
heatsink, cables, etc. Check that the position provides a large enough flat surface that the bracket will
not be distorted when installed.
Figure 1 - Mounting plate and slot dimensions
2. Using the installation bracket as a template, mark the four locations for drilling (see Figure 1). Again,
ensure that drilling at the selected points is safe and will not cause damage.
3. Indent the drilling positions with a center punch.
4. Drill holes sized for the self-tapping screws or for the nuts, bolts and lock washers used.
Caution: Slightly reduce the size of the drilled holes when using self-tapping screws in thin metal.
2.5"
6.0"
1.0"
0.2"
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Figure 2 - Bracket installation
5. Install the bracket without distorting (see Figure 2).
6. Securely mount G3 to the installed bracket using the four supplied 8x40 black machine screws.
7. Drill any additional holes as required for routing all cables and fit holes with suitable grommets or
bushings whenever required.
2.4 Electrical installation
2.4.1 Electrical requirements
G3 is designed to operate from a 13.8Vdc nominal car battery (negative ground) and requires currents up
to 12.0A. It will tolerate a supply voltage range of 10.9 volts to 16.3 volts.
In vehicles with a 24 VDC electrical system (mostly in trucks), it is essential to provide a suitably rated
24/12 VDC converter to isolate the unit from the battery and protect it against excessive voltage.
Warnings:
Always disconnect G3’s DC power lead before connecting a second battery, using power from
another vehicle or power boosting (e.g. when “jump starting” the vehicle).
2.4.2 Routing of power cable
1. Start by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery unless specifically prohibited from doing so by the
customer, vehicle manufacturer, agent or supplier.
Note:
In this event, exercise extreme caution throughout the installation and fit the fuse only
when the installation is complete.
2. The 22 feet (6.7 meters) long power cable consists of three wires attached to a Packard Electric
“Weather-Pack” connector (DC power Connector, see Figure 3).
Figure 3 - DC Power Connector
The DC Power connector has:
• At position “A”, the smaller red switch-sense wire (commonly to ignition)
• At position “B”, the blue ground wire
• At position “C”, a larger red B+ DC power wire (MUST be unswitched)
A
B
C
IGNITION
(
Small red wire
)
GROUND
(Blue wire)
13.8VDC B+
(Fused Red wire) SEAL
(DO NOT REMOVE)
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3. Place this connector at G3’s radio power input location. Do not connect at this time. See paragraph
2.6, “Completing the physical installation”.
4. Carefully route both the B and the C wires to where the in-line fuse holder will be installed, usually
as close to the vehicle’s battery as practicable. Ensure that leads do not chafe on any metal part(s).
Secure the wires at several locations along their length.
Caution:
Use proper crimping tool. Common pliers are NOT acceptable.
Warning:
The DC Power lead must be unswitched
5. Insert the negative (blue) lead into one of the appropriate connector lug and crimp solidly to force the
metal contacts onto the wires.
6. Repeat the step above for connecting the red DC power lead.
7. Attach the positive lead at the battery positive terminal. Attach the negative wire at the vehicle end of
the battery ground cable.
If the negative cable is connected directly to the battery negative terminal, it should be fused in
case of failure of the vehicle’s ground cable.
Ensure tight and secure connections.
8. Fasten the fuse holder and leads.
9. Carefully route the “A” wire to where the connection will be made for switch sensing.
• Connect to “Ignition” if you wish to have G3 turning ON and OFF dependent on the vehicle’s ig-
nition key.
• Connect to “Accessory” if you wish G3 to be available when the engine is not running, but still
dependent on the ignition key.
• Connect to a user-supplied control switch.
• In installations equipped with a “ChargeGuard”, connect to the controlled-side of the Char-
geGuard (remembering that the DC Power lead must NOT be switched).
10. Make appropriate connections.
Cautions:
Where scraping to bare metal was required, and at the battery posts where wire ends and lugs
may be exposed, apply anti-corrosion compound.
Insert the fuse only when installation is complete and ready to test.
11. At the G3 position, neatly coil cable slack and attach securely.
2.5 Antenna
The main transmitter antenna must be vehicle-mounted to provide a separation distance of 50 cm or more
from all persons and the antenna gain must not exceed 5dBi (with a 1.6dB cable loss).
2.5.1 Recommended tools and supplies
• circle cutter, hole saw or socket punch for antenna
• Mini-UHF Crimp tool
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2.5.2 Planning
Referring to Figure 4, G3 commonly uses three separate antennas:
• “T” - Main transceiver -
Constraints are the limit of 50 cm (see section 2.5 above) and omni-directional factors
• “R” - Auxiliary receiver –
Constraints are the receiver spacing of at least 5/8 λ (wavelength) from transceiver antenna and
omni-directional requirements
• “G” - Global Positioning System (GPS)
Constraints are TX spacing of at least 24-in/60.96 cm from all transmitting antennas and a clear view
of the sky.
Figure 4 - Antenna spacing
For the optimum antenna spacing at the frequency you are using, consult System Engineering.
For installation of ground-plane dependent antennas, the center of the metal surface used for mounting is
preferable for best omni-directional pattern. For ground-plane independent antennas, installation may be
close to the edges of the surface.
Install the antennas in one of the following positions:
• Most preferred for all antennas: centerline of roof. For transmitter antenna, it is the ONLY accept-
able position.
• Less preferred for receiver antenna: trunk lid, providing distance to transmitting antenna is respected
whether lid is opened or closed.
• Much less preferred, but permissible for receiver antenna: left or right rear fenders, just in back of
rear window
• Least preferred, but permissible for receiver antenna: left or right front fenders, ahead of windshield
Proximity to other vehicle-mounted antennas may cause mutual interference especially at higher fre-
quencies.
G
MPE
≥
≥≥
≥5/8λ
λλ
λ
(UHF: 18"/46cm
800MHz: 9"/23cm
900MHz: 8”/21cm)
R
T
50cm
19.7in.
≥
≥≥
≥24in.
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2.5.3 Antenna Installation
1. Route good quality 50-ohm coaxial cables (e.g. RG-223) from each of the selected antenna positions
to the position where the G3 unit is mounted.
2. Terminate the end at each of the antenna positions with the appropriate connector for the antenna
used and make the connection.
3. At the G3 position, cut the three cables to length and terminate with the appropriate plug. For the
transceiver and the auxiliary cables, use a Mini-UHF crimp plug using an appropriate crimping tool.
For the GPS, use a SMA connector.
4. Positively identify the transceiver mini-UHF plug and connect to the left rear of G3.
5. Positively identify the auxiliary receiver mini-UHF plug and connect to the front left of G3 to the RX
position.
6. Connect the SMA connector to the GPS* position below the auxiliary connector position.
7. Do not skip this last step, trust us; it is an important one. To complete the installation, tie-wrap to-
gether the auxiliary and the GPS antenna cables at a point about two inches in front of the unit. It will
be much easier hereafter to correctly identify which mini-UHF plug goes where. You DO NOT want
to cross the auxiliary plug with the transceiver plug.
2.6. Completing the physical Installation.
To complete the physical installation and prior to testing G3:
• Connect DC Power cable’s connector to G3’s until you hear a click as the two parts snap to-
gether.
• Re-check that all other connections are secure (antennas, PC, etc.)
• Switch vehicle ignition ON.
You are now ready to check for normal operation and to run the Radio Installation Software (WinRIS)
program for testing or trouble-shooting.
2.7. Checking out Normal operation
Check that the vehicle ignition is ON.
1. Check for proper operation of the G3’s LEDs as per Table 1 on page 17.
2. Using the WinRIS program and an in-line wattmeter, check forward & reverse power to confirm
main antenna installation (as per section 4).
3. Using WinRIS, check the RF Data Link with a base station that can be heard (see section 4.3.3).
If user application and its base station are available, test the installation by going through a normal se-
quence of transmitting and receiving messages.
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3. Operating Description
3.1 Front & Rear Panels
The 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 G3 Lite model)
• Three LED indicators
• Two DE-9F RS232 ports
• One Ethernet 10/100BaseT port
• One USB port (future use)
The rear panel includes:
• One mini-UHF type female antenna connector for the main transceiver
• One 3-pin pigtailed DC Power connector with ignition sense
Figure 5 - Front and rear panels
®
USB
RX
GPS
G3
PWR RX TXPGM
DEV-1DEV-2
6.000"
2.000"
ETH
LNK
ACT
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Table 1 - G3 LEDs indications
G3 LEDs indications
Power-on Sequence (LEDs are paired) Normal Operation (LEDs are independent)
PWR RX / TX Indication PWR Indication RX / TX Indication
Red Red Normal boot-up
start
(10 to 27 sec.) Green* Normal ready state Off No network activity
Amber Off Then 8 seconds
to completing
boot-up
Normal
Green Off Normal state
Amber* 1 Pulse per sec (1 pps)
Sufficient satellites
acquired by GPS Green Receiving packets
“DBA sync” allows transmit
Red Off Hardware failure
flashing
Red -Missing DSP
RSSI calibration
Amber Receiving packets
“DBA out-of-sync” prevents
transmit
Errors
Slow
Red/Green Red Software failure
(firmware erased) Red Transmitting
Special
Fast
Red/Green Red Programming in
progress
* For 800 & 900 MHz US models (using Transmit duty cycle limit firmware) :
- PWR lit Green = normal indication or Flashing Amber = normal + 1pps
- PWR lit Amber = exceeded duty-cycle or Flashing Green = exceeded d-c + 1pps
3.2 DTE Port Interface
For all three ports, we recommend the use of a shielded 9-wire cable with all pins connected. These ports
can be used for unit configuration, maintenance, & adjustment as well to connect user applications.
Table 2 - DTE port pin functions
DE-9 F pin # Function
1DCD – from G3, normally asserted
2 RXD – data from G3
3 TXD – data to G3
4 DTR – to G3, handshaking
5 Ground
6 DSR – from G3, tied to VCC through current limiting resistor
7 RTS - to G3, handshaking
8 CTS – from G3, handshaking
9AUX - auxiliary input to G3, (for port 2: “Officer requires assistance” Alarm input)
It may be activated by (normally open) dry contact pull-up to the port’s DSR output. It may also tolerate
user pull-up to external +12 VDC (car battery), but an isolated dry contact is preferred due to the risk of
noise-related false alarms caused by the vehicle’s electrical system.
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.
See Appendix “A” on page 24 for further details.
3.2.1 RS-232 Interface Signal Levels
In the descriptions of data signals, the following conventions are used:
Table 3 - RS-232 Signal Levels
Term Alternates Signal level
ON asserted, spacing +3 to +15 V
OFF dropped, marking -3 to -15 V
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4. Trouble-Shooting and Testing
The checks described below should be done at annual intervals or whenever deterioration in per-
formance is noted.
4.1 Equipment Required
• 13.8 VDC (nominal) car battery, or
13.8 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 G3 to the service monitor.
• WinRIS version 4.0 or later*
4.2 Basic Tests
Recommended checks:
1. Transmit and Reverse power output
2. Carrier frequency error
3. Frequency deviation
4. Receivers RSSI Check
5. RF Data Link test between a Gemini and a base station.
6. GPS test (not required on G3 Lite model).
- For checks 1 to 5, refer to Table 4 – Test Checklist below.
- For check 6, refer to paragraph 4.3.2 - GPS Test.
Important note: Before proceeding make sure that the service monitor has been recently
calibrated and has warmed up for at least the time specified by its manufacturer.
Some reported frequency and deviation problems have actually been erroneous indications from
service monitors that have not adequately warmed up. This is particularly likely when field
service is done during 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 the numerous buttons and menu-selectable items available, please refer to
the program’s context sensitive help. It is also possible to access the help information via the
F1 key.
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Table 4 – Test Checklist
TEST CHECKLIST
STEP ACTION EXPECTED RESULTS at
25°
°°
°C
MEASURE WITH IF NOT?
G3 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 - G3 LEDs indications
2Connect and save config
Press WinRIS Get button as per WinRIS Help content
3Main transceiver Output
Power
Press TX (Unmod)
UHF: 40 watts
800MHz: 35 watts
900MHz: 25 watts
all +10%, -10%;
Factory-settable down to 10
watts as per customer
request
Service monitor
set to read power
or
50W in-line watt-
meter
Refer to factory technical
support.
4Main transceiver Reflected
Power
Press TXON (Unmod)
< 5% of forward power or as
specified by System Eng. 10W in-line watt-
meter Check for bad connections,
damaged coax cable, etc.
5Carrier Frequency Error
Press TX (Unmod) ± 300 Hz Service monitor
set to read fre-
quency error
Refer to factory technical
support.
6TX Deviation (in kHz)
Press
TXON (Modulated)
Carrier will be modulated with
a 1 kHz tone.
Refer to
Table 5
for TX Deviation details
Service monitor set
to read deviation
(IF filter set to Mid
or 30 kHz position)
Refer to factory technical
support.
7RF Data Link test
Use the base station address
function and “Send” button to
dynamically test the link
Look for
“Delivery confirmed” on the
WinRIS Status bar.
Refer to section
4.3.3 and to Win-
RIS Help content.
Check on the WinRIS RSSI bar
graph if the base station is within
range (i.e. better than -107dBm)
or
Refer to factory technical
support.
8Set the service monitor to generate at the unit antenna jack the RF levels mentioned below. The carrier generated
should be modulated with a 1.0 kHz tone at deviation as per step 4 above.
9Main Rec. RSSI checks
-70dBm
-110dBm
-120dBm
- 70 dBm +/-3 typical
-110 dBm +/-3 typical
-120 dBm +/- 3 typical WinRIS bar graph
10 Aux Receiver
repeat as per step 9 same as step 9 above WinRIS bar graph
The RSSI checks give a
general indication of
receivers' health
Refer to factory technical
support only if RX data per-
formance degradation is no-
ticed combined to out-of-
tolerance RSSI readings.
1 (unless you have set a lower value). Note that readings less than 40 watts (UHF model), 35 watts (800MHz model) and
25 watts (900MHz model) may be due to losses in cables used for testing. Check also your wattmeter frequency cali-
bration curve. Do not be too ready to condemn the transmitter.
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4.3 Additional test details
4.3.1 TX Deviation
G3 is per unit factory-calibrated. Deviation values listed below serve as reference only.
Table 5 - TX Deviation
TX Deviation
Full Channel Units Special Channel Units Half Channel Units
SRC8FSK UHF 800 SRC8FSK 800 US
(NPSPAC) 900 US SRC8FSK UHF 800
48.0kb/s ±4.5 ±3.7 24.0kb/s ±2.9 ±2.8 24.0kb/s ±2.2 ±2.2
43.2kb/s ±4.5 ±3.7 21.6kb/s ±2.9 ±2.8 21.6kb/s ±2.2 ±2.2
SRC16FSK UHF 800 SRC16FSK 800 US 900 US SRC16FSK UHF 800
64.0 kb/s ±4.5 ±3.2 32.0kb/s ±3.2 TBD 32.0kb/s ±1.9 2.0
57.6 kb/s ±4.5 ±3.2 28.8kb/s ±3.2 TBD 28.8kb/s ±2.2 2.2
Tolerance is +5%, -10% for all bit rates.
4.3.2 GPS Test
About three minutes after ignition is turned-on, the PWR LED on the G3 front panel should flash
in amber color at the rate of one pulse per second.1 This indicates that the GPS has acquired the
sky position of a sufficient number of satellites to arrive at a ground position solution.
If the GPS has a good view of the sky and still has not generated any position solution within
three minutes (it may take up to 10 minutes or more if the sky view is partially blocked.), the
following trouble-shooting procedures should be undertaken to isolate the fault:
1) Disconnect the GPS antenna cable connector from the Gemini radio and check for + 5 VDC
on the center pin of the GPS antenna connector on the radio using a Digital voltmeter (DVM).
If the voltage is present, do not reconnect the cable and proceed to step 2.
2) With the DVM, measure resistance between the shell and the center conductor of the GPS ca-
ble, resistance should be between 100 and 300 Ohms, if it measures open or short circuit the
GPS antenna is either a passive antenna which is the WRONG type, or a defective active an-
tenna, replace with a known good active antenna.
3) Connect the new antenna to Gemini and wait about three minutes for the POSITION
ACQUIRED indicator to start flashing on G3, if not, the Gemini radio or its GPS receiver is
defective.
1 Lit green and flashing amber for the 800MHz & 900MHz models under transmitter duty cycle limit.
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4.3.3 RF Data Link Test
A link test between a mobile and a known base station can be done using the WinRIS "Address"
and "Send" functions. The “Address” and “Device” fields, the “Send” button and the “Chat”
message screen are used to send messages to specific mobile or base or to carry out RF test. Start
by entering the address of the mobile (or base station) you wish to send a test message to or test:
1- Specify the address:
Addresses may be entered by typing directly in the “Address” field in two ways:
- Numerically, the valid address range is 1-126.
- As an “Alpha-Mapped-Nibble” (AMN) address, consisting of upper case letters in the
range A-P. The valid address range is A to GN.
- The base address is usually: 1.
- The program may display one of the following messages on the status bar:
- For Paragon products:
“address is not in AMN or number format”
- For mobile products:
“address is not in the range A – GN”
In either case, check that the address entered is within the acceptable range, is of a valid for-
mat, and correctly typed.
2- Enter the Device number for mobile (or base station).
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”.
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5. Specifications
GENERAL
UHF 800 MHz 900 MHz1
Frequency 403 - 460MHz2,
450 - 512 MHz TX 806 - 824 MHz,
RX 851 - 869 MHz TX 896 - 902 MHz,
RX 935 - 941 MHz
Channel spacing 12.5, 20 or 25 kHz
Frequency Control Digital Synthesizer / uController
Frequency Stability 1.5 ppm
Operating temperature -30°C to +60°C (25°C nominal) @ 95% non-cond. RH
Mode of Operation Half Duplex
Number of channels 16 internally stored, flash-EEPROM programmable
Supply voltage 13.6Vdc nominal (negative ground)
10.9 – 16.3 VDC
Circuit Protection 15 Amp fuse external,
Internal crowbar diode for reverse polarity protection
RX Current at 13.6 VDC < 650 mA Standby (with GPS receiver)
TX Current at 13.6 VDC < 12 A < 12 A < 10 A
TX/RX separation any, 5 MHz typical 45 MHz typical 39 MHz typical
Nominal Dimensions 7.1” D x 6.0” W x 2.0” H
Weight: < 4.5 lbs.
RF input/output Impedance 50 ohms nominal
RF connector Main TX/RX: mini-UHF female
Auxiliary RX: mini-UHF female
GPS RX: SMA female (Not installed for G3 Lite version)
Interface connector 3x DE-9F D-subminiature
RECEIVER
Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD) -116 dBm (< 0.35 µV) *
Adjacent channel rejection
(Selectivity) 75 dB @ 25 kHz, 65 dB @ 12.5 kHz 63 dB @ 12.5 kHz
Intermodulation rejection 75 dB
FM hum & noise ratio >40 dB @ 12.5 kHz, >45 dB @ 25 kHz * >40 dB @ 12.5 kHz *
Spurious Response
Rejection >80 dB
Conducted spurious -57 dBm
* psophometrically weighted filter
TRANSMITTER
Power output UHF = 10-40 watts 800 MHz = 10-35 watts 900 MHz = 10-25 watts
Duty cycle 20% @ full power, 30 sec. max. TX time (subject to FCC MPE limit)
Conducted Spurious > -80 dBc
Frequency stability 1.5 ppm
FM hum and noise ratio >40dB @ 1.5 kHz deviation, >45 dB @ 3.0 kHz deviation
Attack time < 10 ms
1 WARNING: 901 - 902 MHz is reserved for use outside US and Canada
2 WARNING:The frequency band 406 to 406.1 MHz is reserved for use by distress beacons and should not
be programmed into the unit.
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Data rates and
Modulation type
SRRC8FSK (21600 b/s, 24000 b/s, 43200 b/s);
SRRC16FSK (21600 b/s, 24000 b/s, 57600 b/s, 64000 b/s );
UHF
(Full channel)
UHF
(Half channel)
800 MHz
(full channel)
800 MHz & 900 MHz
(NPSPAC channel)
TBD@64kbps TBD@32kbps TBD@64kbps TBD@32kbps
TBD@57.6kbps TBD@28.8kbps TBD@57.6kbps TBD@28.8kbps
Rx Sensitivity
for 1%
Packet Error Rate
with
Parallel Decode, at
carrier frequency –106 dBm @ 43.2 kb/s –110 dBm @ 21.6 kb/s –106 dBm @ 43.2 kb/s –110 dBm @ 24 kb/s
Protocol Dataradio Proprietary E-DBA with OOB AAVL support
DISPLAY and CONTROLS
2 status LEDs RX/TX, PWR
Environmental MIL. spec.
Environment Categories MIL Spec. 810E Other
Method Procedure
Low Pressure Operations 500.3 II
High Temperature Operations, Storage 501.3 I(A1), II
Low 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 I
Rain Drip rain 506.3 II **TBD** IEC IP54 only II
Humidity Induced, Aggravated 507.3 II,III **TBD**
Dust Blowing dust 510.3 I **TBD** IEC IP54
Vibration Ground Mobile 514.4 I(8) EIA RS-204C Forestry
Shock Functional, Bench handling 516.4 I,VI EIA RS-204C
FCC / IC CERTIFICATIONS EMISSION DESIGNATORS
Band FCC IC (DOC) Bit rate Baud
rate Modulation UHF
(FCC/IC Mask)
800MHz
(FCC/IC Mask)
900MHz
(FCC Mask)
UHF EOTGPDA 773195525A 19200 19200 DGMSK 15K0F1D (C) 15K0F1D (G) -
9600 9600 DGMSK *15K0F1D (C) *15K0F1D (G)
800 EOTGPDB 773195643A 9600 9600 DGMSK 8K60F1D (D) 8K60F1D (H) 10K2F1D (J)
8000 8000 DGMSK *8K60F1D (D) *8K60F1D (H) 8K75F1D (J)
900 EOTGPD9 773A-GPD9
64000 16000 SRRC16FSK 16K4F1D(C) 14K4F1D(G) -
57600 14400 SRRC16FSK 16K9F1D(C) 14K1F1D(G) -
43200 14400 SRRC8FSK 16K4F1D (C) 14K7F1D (G) -
32000 16000 RC4FSK 16K5F1D (C) 15K6F1D (G)
32000 8000 SRRC16FSK 7K92F1D(D) 7K92F1D(D)
10K5F1D(H)
28800 7200 SRRC16FSK 8K42F1D(D) 8K42F1D(D)
11K0F1D(H)
25600 12800 SRRC4FSK 15K6F1D (C) 15K6F1D (G)
24000 8000 SRRC8FSK - 11K0F1D (H)
8K17F1D(D)
11K4F1D (J)
21600 7200 SRRC8FSK 9K67F1D (D) 8K42F1D(D) -
19200 9600 SRRC4FSK - 10K2F1D (H) 9K92F1D (J)
16000 8000 SRRC4FSK 8K17F1D (D) 10K0F1D (H) 10K7F1D (J)
14400 7200 SRRC4FSK 8K67F1D (D) - -
* Under class 1 permissive change