Carlson Wireless Technologies FT-512 FT-512 Trailblazer Multifunctional Digital Radio User Manual 291830
Carlson Wireless Technologies Inc FT-512 Trailblazer Multifunctional Digital Radio 291830
User Manual
Installation & User’s Manual
FT-512 Trailblazer
Multifunctional Digital Radio
Optional ADD-ONS Include:
4, POTS lines voice plug-in card
8, POTS lines voice plug-in card
1, Ethernet on-board port activation
3 Additional V.35 port plug-in card
Part Number 490-1600
Rev 1.09
Oct 2002
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 ii
Trademark Information
i-WLL, the i-WLL logo , Trailblazer, the Trailblazer logo, are registered trademarks of
Carlson Wireless Technologies Inc.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation,
US Headquarters:
1180-B Evergreen Road
Redway, CA 95560 USA
Presales Inquires and Applications Support
Please contact your local distributor or the Carlson Wireless sales department
Tel: +1 707 923 3000
Fax: +1 707 923 1913
Email: sales@carlsonwireless.com
URL: http://www.carlsonwireless.com
Customer Service, Product Support Information, and Training
Technical support is available Monday - Friday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, PDT.
Tel: +1 707 923 4736
Email: support@carlsonwireless.com
URL: http://www.carlsonwireless.com/support.html
Repair and Return
Carlson Wireless will replace or repair this product within two years from the date of
shipment if it does not meet its published specification, or if it fails while in service. A
return material authorization (RMA) is required prior to returning equipment to Carlson
Wireless.
Training
The Trailblazer support department offers training classes including overviews on:
applications engineering, in house testing, configuration, field testing and maintenance.
Please contact our customer support department for more specific details.
The information contained in this publication is the latest available, however, Carlson
Wireless reserves the right to change specifications of hardware and software without
prior notice. Purchasers of Carlson products should make their own evaluation to
determine the suitability of each such product for their specific application. Carlson
Wireless’s obligations regarding the use or application of its products shall be limited to
those commitments to the purchaser set forth in its Standard Terms and Conditions of
Sale for a delivered product. Use of this manual is also limited to the terms and conditions
stated in the contract between Carlson Wireless Inc. and the purchaser.
Copyright © 2002 Carlson Wireless, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 iii
SAFETY WARNINGS
Potentially hazardous voltages exist on TELCO lines and associated equipment. Always observe
standard safety precautions during installation, operation, and maintenance of these products. To
avoid the possibility of electric shock, be sure to disconnect the power from the remote power
source before you perform any line connections or repairs. Always disconnect all the cables
connected to the system before disconnecting the grounding connection. After disconnecting the
power allow a few seconds for the internal capacitances to discharge before accessing the boards.
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL WARNING
The installation procedures described in this manual must be performed by qualified personnel
aware of the hazards involved. The personnel involved in equipment installation must be trained in
the installation of telephone equipment and associated power systems; these personnel must
strictly observe all the safety precautions related to the installation of communication equipment.
Never install, remove, or adjust equipment and associated cables. Do not work on roofs, masts, or
towers during a lightning storm.
ATTENTION! STATIC SENSITIVE DEVICES
PROPER HANDLING AND GROUNDING PRECAUTIONS REQUIRED.
Components within the Trailblazer system are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). To avoid
and prevent ESD damage and device failure maintain proper grounding during configuration, repair
or maintenance. This is achieved through the use of an antistatic wrist strap securely connected to
chassis ground. Do not use conductive tools for adjusting channel select switch.
FCC, RF SAFETY HAZARD WARNING
Due to the energy radiated from the antenna, this product must never be mounted such that the
cabinet containing the antenna can be closer than 2 Meters ( 6.7 Feet ) to any person.
UL INSTALLATION SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Never install telephone wiring during a lightning storm.
Never install telephone jacks in a wet location unless the jack is specifically designed for wet
locations.
Never touch telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected at the
network interface.
Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
!
!
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 iv
Connection to the Telephone Network
The equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. You will find the label located on the
device. This label contains the FCC Registration Number and the Ringer Equivalence Number
((REN) for this equipment. You must, upon request, provide this information to your telephone
company.
The REN is useful to determine the quantity of devices that may be connected to the telephone line
and still have all of those devices ring with an incoming call signal. In most areas the sum of the
REN’s of all devices connected to one line should not exceed five (5.0). Confirm the number of
devices possible on the telephone line (in REN) by contacting the local telephone company who
provides the service.
Incidence of Harm
If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may
disconnect your service temporarily. If possible, they will notify you in advance. But if advance
notice is not practical, you will be notified as soon as possible. You will be informed of your right to
file a compliant with the FCC.
Rights of the Telephone Company
Your telephone company may make change in its facilities, equipment, operations or procedures
that could affect the proper functioning of your equipment. If they do, you will be notified in advance
to give you an opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service.
Coin Service or Party Use Line
This equipment may not be used on the coin service provided by the telephone company.
Connection to party lines is subject to state tariffs.
Compliance and US Regulatory Information
CERTIFICATIONS AND REGULATORY
FCC Reg No., Part 68
FCC Reg No., Part 15
Industry Canada CS-03
Industry Canada RSS-210/139
BMD8 USA – 27773-PT-E
OPA-FT-512
3448-10241A
3448-FT-512
RADIO INTERFERENCE
Carlson Wireless USA Model: FT-512-Trailblazer
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes of
modification not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 v
Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer’s Name: Carlson Wireless Technologies Inc.
Manufacturer’s Address: 1180–B Evergreen Rd.
Redway, CA 95560
USA
Declares that the product:
Product Name: FT-512 Trailblazer
Conforms to the following standard(s) or other normative document(s):
EMC:
FCC Part 15.247
Safety:
UL 1950
Supplementary Information:
Published Specifications
Redway, CA
July 20, 2002
Damon Siska
Director of Quality
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 vi
Table of Contents
______________________________________________________________________________
1 Introduction....................................................................................................1
1.1 Scope of Manual.......................................................................................1
1.2 Functional Overview .................................................................................1
1.2.1 Main Features....................................................................................2
1.3 Optional Add-on Boards ...........................................................................3
1.3.1 Point to point......................................................................................3
1.3.2 Multipoint ...........................................................................................3
1.4 Application and System Design Considerations .......................................4
1.4.1 Point to Point Microwave Link............................................................4
1.4.2 Multipoint Microwave Link .................................................................4
1.5 General Specifications..............................................................................5
1.5.1 Block Diagram ...................................................................................6
2 Installation......................................................................................................7
2.1 Unpacking.................................................................................................7
2.2 Site Requirements ....................................................................................7
2.2.1 Lightning Protection...........................................................................7
2.3 System Planning.......................................................................................7
2.3.1 Line of Sight, How to Tell for Sure? ...................................................7
2.3.2 Fresnel Zone, What is it, in plain English?.........................................8
2.3.3 Radio Path Losses ............................................................................9
2.3.4 Consideration of other devices in the 2.4 GHz ISM band ..................9
2.3.5 RF Cable Sizing and Recommendations.........................................11
2.3.6 Data Cable Recommendations........................................................11
2.3.7 General Tools..................................................................................11
2.4 Quick Start Instructions...........................................................................12
2.4.1 Power connections to the FT-512....................................................12
2.4.2 Power Supply Feed Cable...............................................................13
2.4.3 Connecting the optional CWT Battery Backed-up Supply ...............13
2.4.4 Channel Selection with the Manual Override Rotary Switch............16
2.5 Field Installation......................................................................................19
2.5.1 Bench Testing..................................................................................19
2.5.2 Mounting the Cabinet ......................................................................19
2.5.3 Synchronization of Co-located units ................................................19
3 Operation......................................................................................................19
3.1 Configuration with the Graphic User Interface ........................................19
3.1.1 Overview .........................................................................................19
3.1.2 Installation of FT-512 GUI CD in a computer...................................19
3.1.3 Communications with the FT-512 and a computer ..........................19
3.1.4 Running the FT-512 GUI CD in a computer ....................................20
3.1.5 Password Entry and Privileges........................................................20
3.1.6 Configuring the Basic Parameters...................................................20
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 vii
3.1.7 Choosing Channel Configurations ...................................................23
3.1.8 Frequency Selection........................................................................23
3.1.9 POTS Lines and Onboard V.35 Port Setup .....................................24
3.1.10 QUAD V.35 Port Add-on Card Setup Information............................24
4 Test & Maintenance .....................................................................................25
4.1 Diagnostics .............................................................................................25
4.1.1 Description of Diagnostic Functions ................................................25
4.1.2 GUI Signal Strength and Packet Error Testing ................................25
4.1.3 System Information..........................................................................25
4.1.4 LED Function...................................................................................26
4.1.5 In Factory Tests...............................................................................26
4.2 Maintenance ...........................................................................................28
4.2.1 Installation of Software Upgrades....................................................28
4.2.2 Installation of Firmware Upgrades ...................................................28
4.3 Troubleshooting......................................................................................29
4.3.1 Units are on the Bench ....................................................................29
5 Product Accessories / Options...................................................................30
5.1 External Antenna - Professional Installers Only.....................................30
5.1.1 Scope ..............................................................................................30
5.1.2 RF Safety Hazard Warning..............................................................30
5.1.3 Unpacking .......................................................................................30
5.1.4 Product Overview ............................................................................31
5.1.5 Installation .......................................................................................33
5.1.6 Mounting..........................................................................................34
6 Appendix ......................................................................................................35
6.1 About Carlson Wireless ..........................................................................35
6.1.1 Mission ............................................................................................35
6.1.2 History .............................................................................................35
6.1.3 Summary .........................................................................................36
6.2 Technical Specifications N x 64 Serial Radio .........................................37
6.3 Technical Specifications 8 Line FXS plug in card ...................................39
6.4 Technical Specifications 8 Line FXS plug in card ...................................40
6.5 Cable Pin outs ........................................................................................41
6.5.1 Configuration Port Pin out ...............................................................41
6.5.2 Synchronization Port Pin out ..........................................................41
6.5.3 V.35 Port - Wiring the DB 25 to a Typical 34 pin Winchester ..........43
6.6 Warranty .................................................................................................44
6.7 Antenna Patterns....................................................................................45
6.7.1 Internal Antenna Patterns................................................................45
6.8 Acronyms/Abbreviations .........................................................................47
6.9 Glossary .................................................................................................49
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 viii
List of Figures
_____________________________________________________________________________
Figure 1: Block Diagram .........................................................................................6
Figure 2: Close up of Power Connections.............................................................12
Figure 3: Power Supply Connections....................................................................14
Figure 4: Main 6 Pair Cable Connector.................................................................15
Figure 5: Battery Shown Connected to Power Supply ..........................................16
Figure 6: Channel Select Switch Location ............................................................17
Figure 7: Rotary Switch Identification with Channel 0 setting shown ....................17
Figure 8: Mounting the Cabinet Outside ...............................................................19
Figure 9: Sync and Bus Port .................................................................................18
Figure 10: COM Port Selection .............................................................................20
Figure 11: Password Screen.................................................................................20
Figure 12 GUI – Configure Screen w/ Progress Bar at Bottom.............................21
Figure 13: Selecting the Signaling Channel ..........................................................23
Figure 14: Selecting the Operating Channel .........................................................24
Figure 15: GUI - POTS lines and onboard V.35 port.............................................24
Figure 16: GUI - Quad V.35 Port Setup ................................................................24
Figure 17: GUI - Signal Strength and Channel Testing.........................................25
Figure 18: GUI - System Information ....................................................................25
Figure 19: System LED's ......................................................................................26
Figure 20: LED - D1 ..............................................................................................29
Figure 21: Mounting of Parabolic Grid 24 dBi Gain Antenna (Horizontally
Polarized).......................................................................................................35
Figure 22: 24 dBi External Antenna Diagram.......................................................35
Figure 23: V.35 Wiring Pin out ..............................................................................43
Figure 24: Internal Antenna Patterns ....................................................................45
Figure 25 : High Gain External Antenna Radiation Characteristics.......................46
List of Tables
_____________________________________________________________________________
Table 1: Fresnel Zone Chart ...................................................................................8
Table 2: Fade Margin Chart ....................................................................................9
Table 3: Coax Cable Loss Table...........................................................................11
Table 4: Feed Cable Sizing and Distance - FT-512 alone ....................................13
Table 5: Pin out for Battery Backed up Power Supply ..........................................15
Table 6: Switch Position Frequency Defaults........................................................18
Table 7: Channel Selection Table .........................................................................23
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 ix
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 1
1 Introduction
1.1 Scope of Manual
The purpose of this manual is to provide planning and installation personnel with
the appropriate procedures to plan and install the FT-512 Trailblazer Digital
Microwave Radio. To avoid harm to persons or damage to the product please
ensure that you have read through the safety, unpacking and installation sections
before proceeding.
1.2 Functional Overview
The FT-512 provides a reliable, wireless voice and high-speed data connection
up to a distance of 50 km. This radio is specifically designed for easy integration
with our voice and data multiplexer cards, or any standard V.35 serial device. In
addition, Carlson Wireless Technologies Inc. (CWT) also offers a multipoint card
cage that will link together the serial data through our network interface card
allowing up to 4 E1’s/T1’s connection into the public switched telephone network.
CWT can provide excellent price/performance solutions for many of the worlds
telecommunication needs both in a point to point or point to multipoint topologies.
The initial release is using a 2.4 GHz radio frequency band, however others are
scheduled to follow in the 3.5 and 5.7 GHz radio bands in 1Q2003.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 2
1.2.1 Main Features
512 or 256 kb/s Synchronous Data Stream with Frame Sync – Structured for
high quality PCM voice use, V.35 serial data peripherals, or optionally an 10
MB/s Ethernet network port.
Full configurable through a PC – Simplify the setup using our Graphics User
Interface application – Data speed, CDMA code, Clocking, Master/Slave and
selection of the user frequency pool are configurable in minutes with a serial
Com port.
Repeater – This product can act as a repeater by just connecting the serial data
port back to back with another unit and setting the external clock to yes on the
master side.
Standard ISO 2593 V.35 DTE port – plugs right in to most V.35 devices
Low Power Draw – The FT-512 uses between ½ to 2 watts of power and
accepts any voltage between 12 and 48 VDC.
Very Expandable- You can start out with only one link and, utilizing a card cage,
continue to add cards linking together the data and thus gain the features of a
point to multipoint topology. Thus you can continue expanding without loosing
any of your original investment.
Private and Secure – Encrypted CDMA spread spectrum modulation,
proprietary framing, structure and packet size assures complete privacy.
Wire-line Quality Voice and Data – Data speeds are selectable up to 512 kb/s.
Designed to integrate seamlessly with our full bandwidth 64kb PCM POTS cards
for high quality voice line/trunks.
Optional 10 MB/s Ethernet port on-board - For simultaneous LAN / IP data
and PCM voice needs
Affordable – The “per pair” pricing of the FT-512 is comparable to the “single
unit” of other data radios not designed for voice and PSTN integration.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 3
1.3 Optional Add-on Boards
1.3.1 Point to point
The FT-512 is a powerful voice and/or data machine that can operate as a stand
alone point to point microwave link. Optional voice and data plug-in cards are
also available for your current and future growing needs:
4, POTS lines voice plug-in card
Four, full bandwidth 64kb PCM, POTS lines can be extended to one location,
eliminating the need for external multiplexers.
8, POTS lines voice plug-in card
Eight, POTS lines can be extended to one location, eliminating the need for
external multiplexers and can be configured as full bandwidth 64kb PCM or 32kb
ADPCM to accommodate your data needs as well!
1, 10BaseT, Ethernet bridge port
With this unique option, line quality circuit switched voice can be used along with
high-speed LAN data traffic, possibly eliminating the need of a router!
4, port, shared V.35 data plug-in card
Why set-up several individual data links when you can extend four data ports to
one location and share the cost between customers?
1.3.2 Multipoint
18 Slot Card Cage with 100 watt power supply
You can have up to 15 villages, each served with up to 8, 64 kb PCM non
blocking telephone lines/trunks integrated into one card cage along with an E1 or
T1 direct digital connection. 1 or 2 time slots can be used for providing Internet.
4 E1, V52, Network Interface Card
With this optional Card Cage and 4 E1, Network Interface Card, you can provide
up to 120 users with high quality voice and high speed Internet connectivity along
with remote monitoring and diagnostics.
4 T1, GR303, Network Interface Card
With this optional Card Cage and 4 T1, Network Interface Card, you can provide
up to 96 users with high quality voice and high speed Internet connectivity along
with remote monitoring and diagnostics.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 4
1.4 Application and System Design Considerations
1.4.1 Point to Point Microwave Link
Security Monitoring Cameras
Public Safety Data Links
Point to Point Commercial Data Links
Cellular Backhaul Data Needs
Permanent or Temporary Telephone Service
Emergency and Disaster Relief
Public Calling Phones
Leased Line Emulation
Islands and other Isolated Areas
1.4.2 Multipoint Microwave Link
Internet Café and Telephone Calling Centers
Wireless Digital Local Loop (Rural Telephone)
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 5
1.5 General Specifications
Note: More technical details are found in the Appendix of this manual
Data Interfaces
Primary Serial Data Port V.35 using a DB 25 Connector (RS-422/RS-
232)
Data Rate and Type 256/512 kbps, Synchronous
Command Port RS-232, 9600 bps, N,8,1
Latency less than 5 ms.
Power Requirements
Input Voltage 12 to 48 Vdc
Power Consumption 2 Watts in full operation (does not include add-
on cards)
RF Specifications
RF Frequency Band 2.400 to 2.4835 GHz
2.350 to 2.500 Optional for export only!
RF Channels Programmable in 1 MHz steps
RF Signal Bandwidth 12 MHz (7 non overlapping channels)
PN Code Rate 11 M chip/sec
PN Code Length 16
Spreading codes 4 programmable non orthogonal codes
Processing Gain 12.04 dB
Modulation Type BPSK (256) or QPSK (512kbs) DSSS
Transmitter Output Power +17dBm, set to allow CDMA operation
Receiver Sensitivity (10-6 BER) -93 dBm @ 256 kbps, -90 dBm @ 512 kbps
Operating Temp -30 to +60 Degrees C with solar shielding
Mechanical
PCB dimensions 5 in. x 6 in. x 1 in.
PCB weight 0.5 lbs
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 6
1.5.1 Block Diagram
Figure 1: Block Diagram
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 7
2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking
The FT-512 Trailblazer radio will arrive in one box approximately 19 x 15x 13
inches (47 x 37 x 32 cm). Small amounts of feed cable and/or power supplies
may also be included in this box if ordered.
Caution! Observe static precautions when wiring or handling circuit boards.
There are nylon standoffs holding the antenna element to the reflector plate.
These are fragile and can easily be over-tightened. They are set to a specific
torque and if over-tightened may fail.
2.2 Site Requirements
2.2.1 Lightning Protection
The FT-512 is equipped with secondary lightning protection only. If your feed
cable is more than 10 Meters (35 ft) in length or extends beyond the existing
building you will need a primary gas discharge type lightning protector. Contact
your sales representative for more information.
2.3 System Planning
2.3.1 Line of Sight, How to Tell for Sure?
Microwave engineers will use a variety of ways to calculate the losses in a radio
path. Determining line of sight is easy if the path has a visible landmark at one
end. If that is not the case then one can resort to topographical maps and plot a
path. If this is marginal you still may have to prove the maps accuracy. We have
used a mirror as a reflector if a sunny day or if at night a bright spotlight. Even
with line of sight proven there are two more things you must know, distance and
clearance of first Fresnel zone.
!
!
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 8
2.3.2 Fresnel Zone, What is it, in plain English?
In plotting terrain profiles for microwave frequencies, there are both direct and
deflected waves that converge upon the receiving point. The direct path has a
predictable behavior. Calculating losses from indirect or “deflected” signals
however requires a different approach.
To calculate the losses of the indirect signals, let us look at what occurs. As the
signal cone spreads outward from the transmitting point, it becomes increasingly
delayed from the original. That delay will show up as a phase change from the
original. As that phase approaches 180 degrees, this delayed signal will have a
significant phase-canceling effect on the direct signal. As the signal continues to
widen, peaks and troughs in reception strength similar to a sine wave occur.
Each peak and trough is called a Fresnel zone.
The first Fresnel zone is the radius of the signal cone in which the phase angle of
the signal can be delayed from 0 to as much as 90 degrees. This is where the
majority of the signal power is supposed to exist. The second Fresnel zone will
cover from 90 to 270 degrees and is undesired as it only causes the negative
effect of phase canceling. The third zone will have signal delays from 270 to 450
degrees. The effect is that odd number zones will add to the direct signal and
even number zones will subtract.
Zone Frequency Wavelength Distance to start Distance to end Fresnel Radius 60% of Zone
(MHz) (feet) (miles) (km) (miles) (km) (feet) (m) (feet) (m)
1 2400 0.41 2.0 3.2 2.0 3.2 46.53 14.18 27.92 8.51
2 2400 0.41 2.0 3.2 2.0 3.2 65.80 20.06 39.48 12.03
1 2400 0.41 1.5 2.4 4.5 7.2 49.35 15.04 29.61 9.03
1 2400 0.41 3.0 4.8 3.0 4.8 56.98 17.37 34.19 10.42
1 2400 0.41 4.0 6.4 10.0 16.0 78.65 23.97 47.19 14.38
1 2400 0.41 6.0 9.6 6.0 9.6 80.59 24.56 48.35 14.74
1 2400 0.41 12.0 19.2 12.0 19.2 113.97 34.74 68.38 20.84
Table 1: Fresnel Zone Chart
Some examples are given in the table above. Download the MS Excel file located
on the CWT web site at www.carlsonwireless.com/support.html to calculate your
own path. Remember, 60% or more of the first Fresnel zone needs to be clear
from obstructions for the calculation of free space losses to be accurate.
You can set the Fresnel zone to even numbered values when plotting a profile to
see potential areas of destructive signal reflection present on the path. One can
now see how it is possible to improve your path by optimizing the height of
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 9
antennas so that the first Fresnel zone signal path is clear and the second is
obstructed.
2.3.3 Radio Path Losses
After confirming not only line of sight and adequate Fresnel zone clearance, it is
then time to look at the Free Space Loss of the radio signal, RF cable losses,
and antenna gains to determine how much is left over. The remaining signal is
called the “Fade Margin”.
Distance Distance Ant Gain Ext RF Path Loss RF power ERP Link Margin
in miles in km in dBi Cable(s) in dB in dBm in dBm in dB
1.5 2.4 14.0 0.0 108 17 31 28.0
2.0 3.2 14.0 0.0 110 17 31 25.5
5.0 8.0 14.0 0.0 118 17 31 17.6
8.0 12.9 14.0 0.0 122 17 31 13.5
10.0 16.1 14.0 0.0 124 17 31 11.5
12.0 19.3 14.0 0.0 126 17 31 10.0
14.0 22.5 14.0 0.0 127 17 31 8.6
20.0 32.2 24.0 1.4 130 17 41 24.1
35.0 56.3 24.0 1.4 135 17 41 19.3
50.0 80.5 24.0 1.4 138 17 41 16.2
Table 2: Fade Margin Chart
The above chart shows various antenna and distance combinations. A
changeable Excel spreadsheet is available on the world wide web at
www.carlsonwireless.com/support.html The 24 dB gain external antenna option
is only available through factory trained dealers.
What’s an acceptable “Link Margin“? A rule of thumb theory is that 10 dB of fade
margin will deliver about 90% reliability and 20 dB will deliver about 99%
reliability, etc. Multi-path and polarization will affect the link as well. At 2.4 GHz
there is only a small ground wave component involved in the radio propagation,
hence the above numbers presume both clear LOS (line of sight) and clearing at
least 60% of the first Fresnel zone. Multi-path degradation is the reason why a
minimum of 16 to 20 dB of margin is required for the link.
2.3.4 Consideration of other devices in the 2.4 GHz ISM band
The ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band at 2.400-2.483 GHz is an
unlicensed band shared for many uses. Any of these devices could become a
source of interference for the Trailblazer products. Some examples are
described here:
Video Transmitters
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 10
These devices use analog radios which are usually fixed in frequency, 6 to
10 MHz bandwidth, low power with an ERP* of less then +10dBm.
Cordless phones
These devices are narrow band and fixed in frequency (during each use),
a 1 to 2 MHz bandwidth, low power with an ERP of less then +10dBm. It
is strongly recommended to avoid the use of 2.4GHz cordless phones in
the vicinity of Trailblazer products.
Local Area Network (Lan) Bridges
These devices are true spread spectrum devices, either a 1 MHz
bandwidth frequency hopping (FH) over the complete band or a CDMA
type of a 16 MHz bandwidth and stationary. ERP’s can range up into the
+30’s (dBm).
Microwave ovens
Microwave oven outputs have been measured at levels up to +20dBm
ERP. This power consists of narrow pulses sweeping wildly in frequency
due to the circulators built into the ovens. The higher power spikes are
mostly concentrated in the upper half of the band between 2450 and 2485
MHz.
Fortunately few users of 2.4 GHz products are located in rural areas, leaving
sharing concerns down to consumer microwave ovens, LAN’s and other rural
telephone users. The functionality of the FT-512 Trailblazer system depends on
the existing and forecasted spectrum usage in the radio path. Due to the
characteristics of the spread spectrum radio, the ITU (International
Telecommunication Union) was able to coordinate this band globally for
unlicensed use. All users in the band must accept all other signals within the
band, interfering or not.
How this impacts the CDMA/FDMA technology used in the FT-512:
If the interfering signal is stationary and has a bandwidth less than 3 MHz it will
not create any significant problem even if it is 100 times (20dB) stronger than the
receive threshold. If the interfering signal has a bandwidth wider than 4 MHz and
is 10 times (10dB) stronger than the receive threshold, it can render that
channel(s) unusable. If the interfering signal is hopping from frequency to
frequency throughout the band such as the LAN bridge device and is only 1/10 (–
10dB) as strong as the receive threshold, it can cause significant dropouts.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 11
2.3.5 RF Cable Sizing and Recommendations
Coax Cable Attenuation (dB per 100 feet)
Cable Type at 2.5 GHz at 5.8 GHz
LMR 400 6.8 dB 10.8 dB
LMR 500 5.5 dB 8.9 dB
LMR 600 4.4 dB 7.3 dB
1/2 inch LDF Heliax 3.9 dB 7.0 dB
LMR 900 3.0 dB 4.9 dB
7/8 inch LDF Heliax 2.3 dB 3.7 dB
Table 3: Coax Cable Loss Table
2.3.6 Data Cable Recommendations
The following are the requirements for the communication cable used to connect
to the data port for either V.35 serial data or for connecting FT-512 units together
to act as a repeater. The cable must be: twisted pair, 24 ga. (0.51mm) stranded,
tinned copper, low capacitance (12.5 pF per foot), 100% shield coverage, PVC
jacket. We use Belden 8110 paired low capacitance computer cable or
equivalent.
2.3.7 General Tools
The following lists the installation tools that are normally needed:
½ inch box end wrench for the pole clamp
7/16 inch box end wrench for the mounting brackets
¼ inch (6mm) wide flat blade screwdriver for the cover and backplane screws
1/8 inch (3mm) wide flat blade for the power binding posts
Needle-nose pliers for the grounding wire and nut
Multimeter for measuring voltage drop, etc.
Wire Strippers for 22AWG (.64mm)
Wire cutters
Sealant and Sealing Tape for external antenna RF connections
And other General Purpose tools such as:
Drill motor
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 12
Drill bits - masonry drill bits
Standard pliers
Staple-gun
Tape measure
Carpenter’s level
2.4 Quick Start Instructions
Unless you have ordered a spare, the FT-512 as a pair, come with a basic
configuration, ready to operate. The remaining part of this section will show you
how to get started with that basic configuration.
2.4.1 Power connections to the FT-512
The FT-512 will accept DC power between 12 and 48 volts Negative ground.
There are special provisions for using Positive ground, please contact the factory
for specific information.
Figure 2: Close up of Power Connections
Be sure to size the power supply adequately. CWT recommends at least 4 times
the consumption. This product alone will consume about 2 Watts. Using Ohms
law, if you provide 12 volts DC you would be consuming 2/12 of an Amp or ~ 167
ma. If you provide 24 volts DC you would use ~ half of that or 85 ma. The power
supply with battery backup sold by CWT is rated at 13.8 volts DC @ 1 Amp or 14
watts.
Positive
12 to 48 VDC
Negative
(normally ground)
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 13
When the power is connected and turned on you should see the LED D1
(heartbeat) flashing at a rate of 1 per second.
2.4.2 Power Supply Feed Cable
Most users can simplify the powering of the radio by using several of the unused
voice/data pairs in a standard 6 pair buriable telephone feed cable. Don’t forget
to allow for additional current if add-on card options are selected.
The standard 6 pair buriable telephone feed cable is a 22 AWG size copper. This
means that both legs will have 3.2 ohms of resistance per 100 feet. Ohms law
can be used to calculate the voltage drop in the feed cable. For example, using
200 feet of 22 AWG, and doubling up on a pair would cause an effect of 3.2
ohms of resistance. If you were providing 13.8 volts than you would have a
current demand of ~150 ma x 3.2 ohms = or 0.5 volt drop. To calculate the
power loss you square the current and multiply by the resistance i.e., 0.150 x
0.150 x 3.2 = 70 mWatts. Good design will keep the power losses below 10% off
the consumption.
Cable Size Ohms/100 feet per Ohm if feeding 13.8, if feeding 24,
A.W.G. mm. both legs both legs
distance with 5%
voltage loss 2pr.
distance with 5%
voltage loss 2pr.
14 1.63 0.516 194 1783 6202
16 1.29 0.818 122 1125 3912
18 1.09 1.302 77 707 2458
19 0.91 1.642 61 560 1949
22 0.64 3.3 30 279 970
24 0.51 5.24 19 176 611
26 0.41 8.32 12 111 385
Table 4: Feed Cable Sizing and Distance - FT-512 alone
The above table shows the distance at which you have a 5% maximum
recommended voltage drop using 2 pairs of wires paralleled together.
2.4.3 Connecting the optional CWT Battery Backed-up Supply
The FT-512 Trailblazer operates on a DC voltage of 12-48V. Commonly, AC line
voltage is readily available. In these cases, the model 640-3600 Power
Converter is available as an option for powering and providing an 8 hour backup
in case power is lost.
Accepting any international AC voltage (90-264 VAC, 50-60 Hz), this Power
Converter provides an output voltage of 13.8V with 14 Watts of power available.
This power is sufficient to supply power to one FT-512 Trailblazer device and
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 14
charge a 2.2 amp sealed lead acid battery. Connection to line voltage is via a
standard IEC line cord. Termination of the low voltage DC is by screw terminal.
Figure 3: Power Supply Connections
The 2-Line RAU connects to the power supply through a standard 6-pair shielded
cable. The cable is terminated at the power supply end with a “removable”
terminal strip. This is a single-row connector with screw terminal connections for
the cable wires.
The best procedure to follow in assembling this cable is as follows:
1. Strip back about 35 centimeters of the cable outer jacket and shield.
Remove the white streamer and clear plastic covering. This reveals the pairing of
the wires.
2. Install the ScotchlokTM 4460-D shield connector to the cable shield. Follow
the instructions included with the shield connector.
3. Separate the wires for termination to the connector as described below:
The standard cable pairs are colored as follows:
White/Blue
White/Orange
White/Green
White/Grey
White/Brown
Red/Blue
NOTE: It is important to keep this pairing intact since all the white wires look the
same. The wire color assignment is as follows:
Wire color Function Connector Pin Number
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 15
Blue (from the
White/Blue pair)
Tip 0 1
White (from the
White/Blue pair)
Ring 0 2
Orange Tip 1 3
White (from the
White/Orange pair)
Ring 1 4
Red/Blue(both wires) Battery back-up signal 5
Not used 6
White/Green +12V 7
White (from the
White/Brown pair)
+12V 7
White/Grey (both wires) Ground 8
Brown Ground 8
Table 5: Pin out for Battery Backed up Power Supply
Pin 1 on the connector is identified as “PCD” shown in the diagram below. Note
that the surface of pin 1 is slightly darker and appears shiny.
Figure 4: Main 6 Pair Cable Connector
5. With the wires identified, cut them to a length of about 10 centimeters from
the cable jacket. Strip the end of each wire back about 1 cm from the end.
6. Attach the wires to the connector as in Table 4 above.
7. Don’t forget to connect the battery up as shown:
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 16
Figure 5: Battery Shown Connected to Power Supply
2.4.4 Channel Selection with the Manual Override Rotary Switch
A 16 position “0 through F” hex format rotary switch is located on the main digital
PCB. This switch determines the channel selection(s) of operation. Both the
Master and Slave in a point-to-point topology must utilize the same setting.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 17
Figure 6: Channel Select Switch Location
There are sixteen positions, “0” through “F” available on the channel select
switch. Note that in order for a changed switch setting to take effect, the device
must be reset via the momentary pushbutton reset switch.
Figure 7: Rotary Switch Identification with Channel 0 setting shown
Manual Channel
Select Switch
Reset Switch
V.35 Data Port
Configuration Port
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 18
The switch numbers are mapped to the following charts showing how single
frequencies or groups of frequencies are selected. Each refers to a mode of
operation that includes a Signal Channel or Administration Channel and one or
more possible Operation Channels. The following sections detail the purpose
and specific use of each of these channel options.
Switch
Position Settings for up to 6 co-located units
Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7
1 Operate
Signal
2 Operate Signal
3 Operate Signal
4 Operate Signal
5 Operate Signal
6 Operate Signal
Switch
Position Settings for up to 3 units in close proximity
Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7
7 Operate Signal Operate
8 Signal Operate Operate
9 Signal Operate Operate
Switch
Position Settings for up to 2 units in close proximity
Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7
A Operate
Signal Operate
B Operate Signal Operate
C Signal Operate Operate
D Operate
Operate Signal Operate
Table 6: Switch Position Frequency Defaults
S = Signal Channel O = Operating Channel
Switch positions E & F are reserved for future use
Both the SLAVE and MASTER must be set to the same switch setting in order to
communicate properly. In multiple user configurations the Operation Channels
are distributed such that they are never shared by two transmitters.
Each configuration is comprised of one Signal Channel for setup/handshaking
and two or more possible Operating Channels for use during the call. The time
spent on the Signaling Channel is about 500ms. These configurations have been
designed to provide minimum interference and maximum possibility of
establishing a quality connection.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 19
Note: Under normal operation the channel select switch is set to zero, allowing
the Trailblazer to choose from a custom frequency group where it will search for
a clear available channel. This option provides maximum performance and
should be the normal choice. The optional settings detailed above are designed
for quick start testing or to satisfy unique operational requirements such as co-
location or persistent interference issues. For all changes to channel selection
the devices must be reset before the new selection will be acknowledged.
2.5 Field Installation
2.5.1 Bench Testing
Before going into the field it is very important to set up the units on the bench and
become familiar with their operation. Follow the above setup and using the
internal antennas. Full operation should be confirmed before leaving for the field.
2.5.2 Mounting the Cabinet
Figure 8: Mounting the Cabinet Outside
2.5.3 Synchronization of Co-located units
When co-locating more than one device in a given location it is necessary to
synchronize the transmitters at the Master site only such that they transmit and
receive at the same instant. Without synchronization bit errors will result and
may cause calls to be dropped or audio to become intermittent.
The synchronization cable is fabricated and installed to link the internal clock
circuitry of all co-located units. Note that the pin configuration for the first unit is
such that it becomes the master clock for the subsequent connected units.
The cable consists of a DB-9 female connector and a tightly twisted pair CAT 5
rated cable (due to the high speed nature of the signal this type of cabling must
be used).
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 18
Figure 9: Sync and Bus Port
• Pin 2 of the first connector runs to pin 3 of the second.
• Pin 8 of the first connector runs to pin 7 of the second.
•
This pattern is repeated for additional units as follows:
• Pin 2 of the second connector runs to pin 3 of the third.
• Pin 8 of the second connector runs to pin 7 of the third.
• etc.
When using the rack mount card cage the backplane automatically handles the
synchronization needs
Sync and Bus Port
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 19
3 Operation
3.1 Configuration with the Graphic User Interface
3.1.1 Overview
The FT-512 GUI Optimizer software allows you to configure, test and monitor
Trailblazer products easily through familiar setup screens.
There are several screens that serve as input/output graphical representations of
a more complicated Command Line script language. Operating parameters of the
FT-512 boards are stored in Flash EEPROM onboard, simplifying manufacturing
and field configuration.
3.1.2 Installation of FT-512 GUI CD in a computer
The GUI software is provided on a CD-ROM disc. It may be installed on any
Microsoft Windows 9x/ME/NT/2000/XP equipped PC with an available RS-232
serial communications (COM) port. The screen resolution must be at least 800 x
600 (SVGA). The following describes the installation:
• Insert the CD-ROM disk. If the installation doesn’t begin immediately you will
have to double click the [CD drive letter]:\setup.exe file through the StartÆ
Run Æ Browse to CD drive and then double click on setup.exe.
• Accept all of the default choices presented to you by the installation software.
• See our web site to insure you have the latest software release.
• Don’t execute the installed software until connecting the cable link as
described below.
3.1.3 Communications with the FT-512 and a computer
You will need a standard PC running Windows 9x, ME, NT4, 2000 or XP with a
spare asynchronous serial Communications (COM) port numbered 1 through 4.
A Serial Communications (SC) Cable is supplied with your system. This cable is
a transmit/receive and CTS/RTS cross pair, DB9 female to a DB9 male. If this
cable is lost or should need to be replaced for any reason, see the Appendix for
configuration port pin-outs to describe its makeup.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 20
3.1.4 Running the FT-512 GUI CD in a computer
Please have the COM cable connected before starting the GUI program. After a
brief CWT splash screen with the GUI version number you will get a Select Port
choice window.
Figure 10: COM Port Selection
Use this to select which COM port you have the SC cable connected to. Typically
this is COM1 or COM2. Ignore the statement that “the configured serial port is
not valid”. This window will no longer appear once you (see below) have
selected a default COM port on the password tab.
3.1.5 Password Entry and Privileges
You will need to enter your password and then hit the TAB key. The factory set
password for this is “superuser”.
This screen allows for 3 levels of privileges including changing your password.
Figure 11: Password Screen
The Super User can change any assignments including the unit’s SFD number,
and the default COM port setting.
The Normal User can change any assignments except the unit’s SFD number,
and the default COM port settings.
The Restricted user cannot change any assignments. He/She can only view the
current settings and perform tests.
3.1.6 Configuring the Basic Parameters
The next screen presented is the Configure screen. This is where the setup of
the radio is done.
Set COM Port here
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 21
The rotary switch position onboard the FT-512 is also shown here.
Note at the bottom of the screen is a progress bar.
Figure 12 GUI – Configure Screen w/ Progress Bar at Bottom
For trouble free operation, allow the progress bar to complete its task before
selecting other functions.
Serial Number. This is set at the factory and is used by the factory for part and
revision identification.
Setting the Special Field Delimiter number. The Special Field Delimiter (SFD)
number is set by the super user. This is what gives the part it’s uniqueness and
security over the airwaves. You must have the same SFD number in two units
that you want to communicate together. The number must be between 1 and
65534.
Switch Position. This window will read out what the setting of the rotary switch
on the FT-512 is. Only switch position 0 allows the user to configure the
operating frequencies. Non zero switch settings select the pre-programmed
frequencies that can be seen in the right hand window.
Master/Slave. Of any pair, one is set as Master and the other is Slave. If more
than one pair are collocated, they must be all be Masters at that end.
Data Speed. Selection of the desired synchronous data rate is accomplished
with this pushbutton. Choices of 512, 256, 128 and 64 kb/s exist.
DTR Line Active. DTR stands for Data Terminal Ready. It is part of the data port
flow control logic which qualifies data as acceptable or unacceptable.
Considering that the Trailblazer, by default, will emulate the DCE side of a V.35
port, a typical handshaking session would go as such:
If the setting is “yes” , then the unit will operate without a user supplied
DTR signal. If “no”, then the unit must see a high signal on DTR before a
connection can be established. When the Terminal equipment has booted,
DTR will go high, When the Trailblazer’s COM link is up, is ready to accept
and send data, and sees the opposing DTR high, it will raise DCD (Data
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 22
Carrier Detect) & CTS (Clear To Send), CTS will only go high if RTS is
high. If the Trailblazer’s elastic buffer fills up, it will lower CTS.
Link Always Up. This is set to “Yes” if the system is designed for “always up”
data use. If the system is used for POTS telephone service and should be off air
when idle, then the switched position of “No” would apply.
CDMA Code. We allow 4 non orthogonal codes to be used. This can be
beneficial for reusing frequencies within a given area. The paths need to be
isolated by 30dB and the units synchronized when collocated.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.09 23
3.1.7 Choosing Channel Configurations
The channel center frequencies are mapped to a number in the following charts.
They can be configured and downloaded using the FT-512 GUI application
running on a PC, or by using the manual selector switch as described in the
following section.
NOTE: Channels 6 and 11 not used in USA
Table 7: Channel Selection Table
3.1.8 Frequency Selection
This system uses a common channel for administrative setup and tear down of
the link. Start by choosing the administrative or signaling frequency. There is a
drop down menu that appears when selecting the signaling frequency box. For
selecting frequencies for the operating pool simply highlight and then hit the Æ
right arrow key. To remove a frequency from the pool, highlight then hit the Å left
arrow key.
Figure 13: Selecting the Signaling Channel
Once the signaling frequency is selected, the operating frequencies are selected
by highlighting the number desired and then clicking on the single -> right arrow.
There can be as many as 5 operating frequencies in the pool. If transmission is
impaired the system will choose the next frequency in line.
The next group of offset channels
Channel 7 2418 MHz
Channel 8 2430 MHz
Channel 9 2442 MHz
Channel 10 2454 MHz
Channel 11 2466 MHz
The first group of non-overlapping
channels
Channel 1 2412 MHz
Channel 2 2424 MHz
Channel 3 2436 MHz
Channel 4 2448 MHz
Channel 5 2460 MHz
Channel 6 2472 MHz
24
Figure 14: Selecting the Operating Channel
As a default we have selected 2.424, 2.448 and 2.460 GHz.
3.1.9 POTS Lines and Onboard V.35 Port Setup
Figure 15: GUI - POTS lines and onboard V.35 port
This screen allows one to implement a mixture of POTS and V.35 synchronous
serial data services. At the bottom of the screen calculations show original, used
and remaining bandwidth capacity. You can select a mix of services until the
unused is zero. Always hit the apply button and wait until the progress bar has
completed before exiting the screen.
3.1.10 QUAD V.35 Port Add-on Card Setup Information
Figure 16: GUI - Quad V.35 Port Setup
This screen allows one to implement up to four V.35 synchronous serial data
ports operating at different clocking rates. At the bottom of the screen
calculations show original, used and remaining bandwidth capacity. You can
select from individual ports until the remaining Kb/s is zero. Always hit the apply
button and wait until the progress bar has completed before exiting the screen.
25
4 Test & Maintenance
4.1 Diagnostics
4.1.1 Description of Diagnostic Functions
The configuration GUI can be very useful at setup time. The disadvantage is that
it requires a PC (laptop).
4.1.2 GUI Signal Strength and Packet Error Testing
This screen is used for testing the radio path performance in the field. It shows in
large letters the Current frequency, Signal strength and Packet errors.
Figure 17: GUI - Signal Strength and Channel Testing
Along the bottom there are buttons for interference testing of any frequencies you
have listed in the pool. Always transfer out of this screen and back to configure
before exiting the program!
4.1.3 System Information
Figure 18: GUI - System Information
This screen shows the software and firmware revisions, history of resets, what
type of Add-on card is connected if any, number of devices the Add-on card may
have, and relative time and date. The time and date are not maintained if power
is lost or the system is reset so it should be the last thing set.
26
Reset causes are broken down as such:
Power – number of times the supply voltage failed.
External – number of times the manual pushbutton has been depressed.
Brownout – number of times the supply voltage went below the minimum of 10
volts but did not fail completely.
Watchdog – number of times the watchdog initiated a reset.
Figure 19: System LED's
4.1.4 LED Function
The LED’s labeled D4, D5 and D6 represent the following functions;
D4 – (SYSTEM ACTIVE) This led is lit if the Microprocessor is trying to connect
or connected.
D5 – (PACKT ERR) This will flash for a fraction of a second when the units are
establishing a link and then after the link has been established it should go dark.
It then will light for ½ of a second if it detects any packets with data errors. This
would occur with interference or insufficient path margin.
D6 – (CPU WAKE) This led will flash rapidly once the hardware has completed
the “power on self test” (post) procedure successfully.
4.1.5 In Factory Tests
The following compliance tests are competed in the factory before the product is
shipped:
D4
-
Link Connected?
D5
-
Packet Errors?
D6
-
CPU Awake?
27
FT-512 Quality Assurance Testing
Engineer _______ Date ________ Serial Number _______
Slave Master
Hardware
1. PC Board Revision # Rev. Rev.
2. Visual Inspection
a. S2 soldered to ground
b. Switch position - (Default 0)
Voltage / Current
3. Test bench voltage (20.0 VDC) VDC VDC
4. Current draw mA mA
5. 5 volt regulator (Measure @ JP18)
6. 3.3 volt regulator (Measure @ JP19)
7. 2.5 volt regulator (Measure @ JP20)
Software
8. Fuse bit programming
9. AtMega program load Version 1. Version 1.
10. FPGA passed LED test Version 1. Version 1.
Configuration port test
11. CDMA Code (1, 2, 3, 4)
12. Set Master / Slave (M, S)
13. Set speed (512, 256, 128, 64)
14. Set serial number
Clocking and Sync
15. Sync. port in/out test
16. Clock speed @ (512, 256, 128, 64)
17. External clock Auto-Sync
18. Co-location sync test
24 Hr Burn-In Assurance Test
Radio Test
19. Radio serial number
20. Freq. with radio on line (32.768 MHz)
21. Freq. Admin and operate
a. V.35 data port bit error test
b. RS_232, DSR, CTS DCD test
22. Radio power @ mid-band dB dB
23. RSSI test with 100dB att. dB dB
Shipping and Assembly
24. Internal antenna gain test
25. External antenna test
Shipped with serial cable
GUI CD Version 2.___
28
4.2 Maintenance
4.2.1 Installation of Software Upgrades
(Yet to be completed)
4.2.2 Installation of Firmware Upgrades
(Yet to be completed)
29
4.3 Troubleshooting
4.3.1 Units are on the Bench
The following flowchart should help focus in on the fault.
Assuming you have a pair of boards on the bench with adequate power
connected.
Figure 20: LED - D1
Is the Microprocessor heartbeat LED -D1, flashing?
D4 should be on steady- otherwise the unit is resetting
D5 should not be lit – other wise it getting packet errors
D6 should be flashing rapidly – showing the micro processor is awake.
If you connect the GUI with a console cable, are you able to communicate.
Once communication is established:
Do the SFD numbers match?
Are both Administrative channels the same?
Is there an Operating channel set in the “Master”?
Is one unit a “Slave” and the other a “Master”?
Are both rotary switches set on 0?
Are the CDMA codes the same on each pair? (1 through 4)
Are both Data Rates set the same?
Heartbeat LED - D1
30
5 Product Accessories / Options
5.1 External Antenna - Professional Installers Only
Detached antennas, whether installed indoors or out, should be installed ONLY
by experienced antenna installation professionals who are familiar with local
building and safety codes and, wherever applicable, are licensed by the
appropriate government regulatory authorities. Failure to do so may void the
CWT product warranty and may expose the end user to legal and financial
liabilities."
"Regulations regarding maximum antenna gains vary from country to country. It
is the responsibility of the end user to operate within the limits of these
regulations and to ensure that the professional installer is aware of these
regulations, as well. In the United States, this product must not be co-located or
operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter ."
5.1.1 Scope
This section is designed to support the installation, operation and maintenance of
the 24 dBi high gain parabolic grid antenna used in conjunction with the FT-512
Trailblazer All-Digital Remote Wireless Telephone Link. To avoid harm to
persons or damage to the product please ensure that you have read through the
safety, unpacking and installation sections before proceeding.
5.1.2 RF Safety Hazard Warning
Due to the substantial energy radiated from the antenna, this product must never
be mounted such that the cabinet containing the antenna can be closer than 2
Meters ( 6.7 Feet ) to any persons.
5.1.3 Unpacking
Please note any damage to the box and report to shipper before opening. The
24 dBi high gain parabolic grid antenna will arrive in one box approximately 36 x
30 x 8 inches (92 x 76 x 20 cm). Small amounts of feed cable may also be
included in this box if ordered.
!
31
Upon opening the box one will find an N-female to N-male 36 inch long cable
taped to the grid reflectors which are face down with corners padded. After
removing the reflectors there will be a remaining box taped to the bottom. Inside
this box will be the mounting bracket, clamp and hardware, extension tube, and
dipole.
5.1.4 Product Overview
The 24 dBi Parabolic Grid Antenna is welded galvanized steel with gray epoxy
powder coat paint. Because of the design and color, it blends well with any
background. This antenna has a history thousands of successful field
installations over the years. Antennas are complete with Reflector, Patented
Dipole and Heavy Duty brackets for 1 to 2.5 inch diameter poles. These antenna
systems are designed to survive high wind environments.
Refer to the “Product Specification” Section for specification and characteristics.
Features
● 50 Ohm Passive Feed Dipole
● Horizontal or Vertical Mounting
● Type N Female Connector
● Rugged, Lightweight and Waterproof
● Adjustable Tilt Bracket
Cross-Wind Handling Capabilities of Reflector Antennas
Simple wind load calculations are based on the worst case condition of a cross
wind on a 24dBi reflector type antenna. The wind loading and resulting wind
induced torque, of the dipole and the reflector were taken separately to simplify the
torque calculations.
The wind side surface area of the dipole is 19 sq. in. at a center point 9.5 inches
from the pole (pivot axis). The reflector wires are estimated to have a side
sectional surface area of 78 sq. in. at a center point 5.5 inches from the pole.
At 100 MPH (146.7 fps or 0.1444 Mach) the equivalent wind pressure is .221 PSI.
The dipole load is Fdp = 19 x .221 = 4.2 lbs., and the reflector load is Fref = 78 x
.221 = 17.2 lbs.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 32
The total torque at the pole is the sum of the dipole and reflector torque: Ttotal =
Tdp +Tref = Fdp x 9.5" + Fref x 5.5" = 39.9 + 94.6 = 134.5 in-lbs or 11.2 ft-lbs at
the pole.
Measurements show the bracket holding torque to be 26 ft-lbs with the bracket nut
tightened to 30 in-lbs (hand tight on a wing nut), 50 ft-lbs with a nut torque of 55 in-
lbs and 70 ft-lbs with a nut torque of 75 in-lbs.
Follow up verification was performed by mounting a video camera to a mast pole
while the reflector and dipole were subjected to 80 MPH winds. Throughout the
test, no rotation or vibrations were observed, in either a head wind or a cross wind.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 33
5.1.5 Installation
The use of an external antenna with Model FT-512 Trailblazer Pro system
mandates professionally trained personnel to ensure compliance with FCC rules
and regulations. Specifically the installer must ensure that the EIRP of the
transmitting antenna does not exceed the requirements of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Title 47, paragraph 15.247.
Calculating the EIRP of an External antenna
The output of the FT-512 Trailblazer radio is calibrated at the factory to +16 dBm
+/- 2dB. It is not adjustable in the field. The 36 inch LMR 400 “N” to “N” short
cable allows the Trailblazer system to be located just behind the antenna with
losses totaling approximately 2 dB. The external antenna sold by CWT has a gain
throughout the 2.4 ISM band of 24dBi.
Using this as an example one can calculate the following:
Given a radio maximum output power of 18 dBm - interconnecting cable losses of
2 dB = total power arriving to antenna of 16 dBm. Now adding the 24 dB Antenna
gain of 24 dB = A total Effective Rated Power of 40 dBm.
The “3 for 1” FCC rule states that for every 3 dB above 6 dB of antenna gain you
must lower the maximum RF power available to the antenna from +30 dBm by 1
dB. In this example the antenna gain is (24 – 6) 18 dB above 6 or (18 / 3) or 6
times 3 dB above 6 dB. Checking to see if the transmit power meets the rule is
done by subtracting 6 from +30 dB equaling +24 dBm. The transmitter output RF
power is +18 dBm max.
Following this guideline ensures compliance with the maximum transmitter ERP
allowed with the antenna provided as a system.
Note that this manual is designed for Professional Installers Only.
Detached antennas, whether installed indoors or out, should be installed ONLY by
experienced antenna installation professionals who are familiar with local building
and safety codes and, wherever applicable, are licensed by the appropriate
government regulatory authorities. Failure to do so may void the CWT product
warranty and may expose the end user to legal and financial liabilities."
"Regulations regarding maximum antenna gains vary from country to country. It is
the responsibility of the end user to operate within the limits of these regulations
and to ensure that the professional installer is aware of these regulations, as well.
"
Installations of the Model I WLL Trailblazer System require topographic analysis,
site survey, and link budget calculation; therefore CWT trained professionals are
required to perform the installation.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 34
Marketing and sales channels
CWT DOES NOT sell the Trailblazer PRO direct to end users. i WLL Trailblazer
PRO System will be sold only to CWT's Authorized Resellers. Those authorized
resellers are technically trained by CWT's Engineers periodically and must follow
the rules set by CWT. The Trailblazer PRO system is designed for Long Range
(15-35 miles) applications and it involves a complicated mandatory site survey,
roof top mast installation, high gain antennas, accurate antenna alignment, etc.
Those activities can be done ONLY by professional installers that are familiar with
the FCC regulations. CWT does not sell the Trailblazer PRO in the consumer
business at all. We have no resellers in this market and we do not advertise in
consumers based publications or attend consumer oriented trade shows. The
system will be advertised in technical trade shows and magazines.
5.1.6 Mounting
Rough alignment. This is usually easier then it would seem. Since it is a
prerequisite that you have line of sight between the two points, here are several
ideas that have worked for installers:
(1) If you can see the other unit, simply aim the units towards each other. (2)
During midday, use a mirror or compact disk to create a reflection approximately
towards the other site while someone watches for the flash.
(3) Plot out the path on a topographical map and set the antennas using a
compass.
How close in alignment do they need to be? +/- 10 degrees will be adequate for
most paths using the 14 dB gain antenna. Certain paths that have a low fade
margin may require a more accurate setting.
Alignment indicators: Due to the nature of digital modulation and the associated
circuitry, there is not analog test point where signal strength may be monitored.
Rather, the bit error rate may be monitored on the digital board. With an ideal link
errors will not be encountered and the LED will not illuminate. If there are
obstructions or interference in the link this LED will begin to blink. The rate of flash
is an indication of a degraded link with a higher flash rate indicating more errors
and hence a poor link.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 35
Final alignment is performed by connecting a standard telephone directly to the
subscriber (FXS) wide and listening to the dial tone. As the antenna (device
housing) is moved to the left the signal will degrade, the bit error LED will flash,
and eventually the link will be lost. Noting where the antenna is aimed when the
link is lost the antenna is then rotated to the right until the same dropout is
experienced. The antenna is then located in a final position which is midway
between these points. Due to the 33 degree beam width of the antenna this
method of alignment is more than sufficient to ensure proper alignment.
Figure 21: Mounting of Parabolic Grid 24 dBi Gain Antenna (Horizontally Polarized)
Figure 22: 24 dBi External Antenna Diagram
6 Appendix
6.1 About Carlson Wireless
6.1.1 Mission
Carlson Wireless Technologies (CWT) is dedicated to designing, manufacturing
and marketing innovative, low power digital WLL (wireless local loop) telephone
systems that provide high-quality voice and data for rural and remote telephone
users worldwide.
6.1.2 History
CWT was founded in 1999 by James Carlson. This followed year long product
development by a team of engineers working for Carlson Engineering Services
(CES). In 1999 Carlson Wireless Technologies Inc. (CWT) was formed to
purchase the rights to the digital wireless telephone system designed from CES. In
April 2002 CWT purchased the assets of Adicom Wireless Inc. formerly of
Pleasanton, CA. Adicom Wireless had spent 4 years and over $40 million in
development of a CDMA multipoint system. The designs and patents are being
utilized in this newer FT-512 point to point and point to multipoint product line.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 36
Carlson Wireless Technologies, Inc. is a privately held California “C” corporation
headquartered in Redway, California.
6.1.3 Summary
CWT is marketing the Trailblazer product through established telecom and
wireless equipment distributors. Please contact our pre-sales department +1 707
923 3000, or sales@carlsonwireless.com for more information.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 37
6.2 Technical Specifications N x 64 Serial Radio
Trailblazer FT-512 – Fractional E1/T1 N x 64 Serial Radio (Sep 2002)
SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Product Description Digital Microwave Radio with a Programmable V.35 Synchronous Data Port
Air Interface Proprietary Time Division Duplexing with Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum
Overall Data Throughput Rate 512 , 256, 128, 64 kbps, selectable from configuration GUI
End-to-End System Latency Less than 5 ms
System Range: ( 256kbps )
w/ Std. Internal 14 dBi Antenna 14 miles (22 km) Nom w/ 12 dB Fade Margin and Interference Free Spectrum
w/ Opt. External 24 dBi Antenna 30 miles (48 km) Nom w/ 16 dB Fade margin and Interference Free Spectrum
DATA CHANNEL SPECIFICATIONS
Synchronous Data Port Interface V.11 ( V.35 w/ RS422 and RS232)
Synchronous Data Rate 512 kbps, 256kbps, 128kbps, 64kbps
Clocking Transmit data and receive data clocks generated internally. Will sync to an
external clock on the master side for a “tail circuit” operation.
Data Interface Connector 25 pin “D” type female
Configuration Connector 9 pin “D” type female
POWER REQUIREMENTS &
CONSUMPTION
Filtered DC nominal 12 to 48 volts, Earth Ground Required
Absolute Minimum – Maximum 10 to 56 volts
Operating Current 2 Watts (i.e. 20v @ 100ma) Typical
AC Adapte
r
Supplied Separately (100 to 260 VAC, 50-60 Hz)
RF PERFORMANCE
Frequency Range: Standard Model 2400 to 2483.5 MHz
RF Channels 13 Operational reserving 1 for Administrative
Spreading Method Direct Sequence with 16 PN Code Length
Modulation Direct Sequence BPSK or QPSK
Processing Gain 12.04 dB
RF Output Power +15 min with 17 dBm Typical
Max System ERP 31 dBi (17 dBm + 14 dBi Antenna)
Receive Sensitivity -93 dBm/256 kbps @10-6 BER –90 dBm/512 kbps @ 10-6 BER
Transmit/Receive Burst Packet Synchronization RS-422 Balanced Pair, Output and Input
Antenna Integrated Internally
w/ Opt. External 24 dBi Antenna 30 miles (64 km) Nominal w/ 16 dB Fade Margin
External Antenna Port “N” Type Female
ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL
SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temp -30 to +60 Degrees C (Ambient with Solar Shielding)
Humidity 0 to 95% - Non-Condensing
Shock and Vibration Mil Standard 810 D
Mounting 25 – 50 mm (1 to 2”) pipe or rack mount for co-located option
Exposure to the Elements (in outside enclosure) NEMA 4X, Rain, Wind, and Ice Protected
Enclosure Material GE Valox99® Polycarbonate w/ Neoprene Gasket
Unit Weight (field station complete) 8 lbs; 3kg
Unit Dimensions 8 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 5 inches; 22 x 27 x 13 cm
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 38
Shipping Weight (pair of FT-512 units complete) 20 lbs; 8 kg
Shipping Container Size 19 x 15 x 13 inches; 47 x 37 x 32 cm
INTEGRATED ANTENNA
SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Range 2350 to 2500 MHz
Impedance 50 Ohm
Connector SMA Male Reverse
Forward Gain on “E” Plane 13.8dBi
VSWR 1:1.5 or 14 dB RL
Front to Back Ratio 25 dB
3 dB Beamwidth Horizontal - +/- 14 Degrees, Vertical - +/- 18 Degrees
Polarization Normal Configuration Vertical
WARRANTY
1 Year Parts and Labor
Specifications Subject to Change without Notice.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 39
6.3 Technical Specifications 8 Line FXS plug in card
FEATURES:
Worldwide dial-up telephone network compatibility
Enhanced V.90 modem performance
All CLASS services fully supported including Caller ID and CWID
Pay Phone compatible with soft loop reversal and optional 12/16 kHz Signal Pulse Metering
(TTX)
Will extend a line build out up to 1200 ohms (17km with 19ga. wire)
Complies with the requirements of LSSGR, TR57, ITU Q.552, and G.712
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Product Description Foreign Exchange Subscriber Card
DS-0 lines 2, 4 or 8 depending on order
Regulatory LSSGR, TR57, ITU Q.552, and G.712
Line and Balance Impedance Both resistive and reactive can be set per country requirements
2 WIRE LINE SPECIFICATIONS
Open Loop Voltage 24 to 48 volts, selectable
Loop Current 24 ma max
Maximum Loop Length 1200 ohms
Ringing Voltage 42 standard, optional 42 to 80 VAC
Ringing Load 3 REN
Ringing Waveform Balanced sinusoidal
Idle channel noise – 2w port u-Law, -16 dBrnC, A-Law, -74 dBmp
Idle channel noise – PCM side u-Law, -18 dBrnC, A-Law, -69 dBmp
Longitudinal Balance L-T -53dB, T-L - 46dB, 4-L -46dB
TTX Generation 12 or 16 kHz, typ set to 200 mv rms.
Gain Tracking Ref 1014 Hz, -10dBm0, +/- 0.25 dB from -40 to 0dBm0
Nominal Transmit Level 0.0 dBm0, factory programmable
Nominal Receive Level -2.0 dBm0, factory programmable
2 wire port return loss 26 dB min.
POWER REQUIREMENTS &
CONSUMPTION
Filtered DC nominal 12 to 48 volts, Earth Ground Required
Absolute Minimum – Maximum 10 to 56 volts
Operating Current: no load, full load 1 Watts (i.e. 20v @ 50ma) , 4 watts with all lines active
ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL
SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temp -30 to +60 Degrees C (Ambient with Solar Shielding)
Humidity 0 to 95% - Non-Condensing
Shock and Vibration Mil Standard 810 D
Shipping Weight 4 lbs; 2 kg
WARRANTY
1 Year Parts and Labor
Specifications Subject to Change without Notice.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 40
6.4 Technical Specifications 8 Line FXS plug in card
FEATURES:
Worldwide dial-up telephone network compatibility
Transient protection to 5 kilovolts
Superior voice solution with low noise and excellent line impedance matching
Designed for maximum performance with modems up to V.92
All CLASS services fully supported including Caller ID and CWID
Pay phone loop reversal detect and optional 12/16 kHz Signal Pulse Metering (TTX)
detection
Complies with the requirements of TIA/EIA/IS-968 (FCC), UL 1950, UL 60950, EN 60950,
IEC60950, EN55022B, CISPR22B, EN55024, and TRB-21
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Product Description Foreign Exchange Office Card
DS-0 lines 2, 4 or 8 depending on order
Regulatory TIA/EIA/IS-968 (FCC), UL 1950, UL 60950, EN 60950, IEC60950, EN55022B,
CISPR22B, EN55024, and TRB-21
Line and Balance Impedance Both resistive and reactive can be set per country requirements
2 WIRE LINE SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Loop Length 1500 ohms or 18 ma.
Ring Equivalent Number 0.3B per line
Ring Detect Threshold 24-110 Vrms, 17-34 Hz
Ring Balanced sinusoidal
Idle channel noise – 2w port u-Law, -16 dBrnC, A-Law, -74 dBmp
Idle channel noise – PCM side u-Law, -18 dBrnC, A-Law, -69 dBmp
Longitudinal Balance L-T -53dB, T-L - 46dB, 4-L -46dB
Gain Tracking Ref 1014 Hz, -10dBm0, +/- 0.25 dB from -40 to 0dBm0
Nominal Transmit Level 0.0 dBm0, factory programmable
Nominal Receive Level -2.0 dBm0, factory programmable
2 wire port return loss 26 dB min.
POWER REQUIREMENTS &
CONSUMPTION
Power provided by FT-512 card
Operating Current: no load, full load Less than 100 mw with all lines active
ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL
SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temp -30 to +60 Degrees C (Ambient with Solar Shielding)
Humidity 0 to 95% - Non-Condensing
Shock and Vibration Mil Standard 810 D
Shipping Weight 4 lbs; 2 kg
WARRANTY
1 Year Parts and Labor
Specifications Subject to Change without Notice.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 41
6.5 Cable Pin outs
6.5.1 Configuration Port Pin out
A DB9 pin Female to be fit in the PC is wired with:
DCD on pin 1, (not used)
TX Data on pin 2,
RX Data on pin 3,
DTR on pin 4, (not used)
SG (signal ground) on pin 5
DSR on pin 6,
RTS on pin 7,
CTS on pin 8,
RI on pin 9, (not used)
A DB9 pin Male to be fit in the FT-512 is wired with:
Rx Data to pin 2,
Tx Data to pin 3,
DSR to pin 4,
SG (signal ground) to pin 5
CTS to pin 7,
RTS to pin 8,
6.5.2 Synchronization Port Pin out
A DB9 pin Male to be fit in the signal source master, is wired with:
SYNC_OUT+ on pin 2,
SYNC_OUT- on pin 8,
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 42
A DB9 pin Male to be fit in the signal receiving master is wired with:
SYNC_IN+ on pin 3,
SYNC_IN- on pin 7,
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 43
6.5.3 V.35 Port - Wiring the DB 25 to a Typical 34 pin Winchester
Figure 23: V.35 Wiring Pin out
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 44
6.6 Warranty
Limited Warranty, USA
Carlson Wireless Technologies (CWT) or Carlson Wireless USA, Collectively
referred to as "Carlson“) will repair this product with new or rebuilt parts, free of
charge, in the USA or Puerto Rico for two (2) years from the date of original
purchase in the event of a defect in material or workmanship. Mail-in service in
the USA can be obtained during the warranty period from a Carlson Factory
Service center by calling +1-707-923 3000, for a RMA (Return Materials
Authorization) number and mail your product adequately packed, postage paid
and insured to the address provided. This warranty is extended only to the
original purchaser. A purchase receipt or other proof of date of original purchase
will be required before warranty performance is rendered. This warranty only
covers failures due to defects in materials or workmanship which occur during
normal use. It does not cover damage which occurs in shipment or failures which
are caused by products not supplied by Carlson or failures which result from
accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication, alteration.
modification, lightning, line power surge, introduction of sand, dust, humidity and
liquids or commercial use of the product, or service by anyone other than a
Carlson Factory Service center or authorized Carlson Service center, or damage
that is attributable to acts of God.
Limits and Exclusions
There are no express warranties except as listed above.
CARLSON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT, OR ARISING
OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO THE
APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so
the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state. If a problem with this product develops during or after the warranty
period you may contact your dealer or Service center. If the problem is not
handled to your satisfaction, fax, phone, or write the company at the address
indicated in the service section of this manual.
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 45
6.7 Antenna Patterns
6.7.1 Internal Antenna Patterns
Radiation Pattern (H-Plane)
Radiation Pattern (E-Plane)
Figure 24: Internal Antenna Patterns
External Antenna Pattern
Specifications:
Input Return Loss
VSWR
Impedance
Pole Diameter
Operating Temperature
Gain
3 dB Beam Angle
Cross Pole
Front to Back
Side Lobe
Wind Loading (100mph)
Weight
Dimensions
-12 dB
1.5:1
50 Ohms
1 to 2.5 in., 2.5 to 6 cm
-45 to +70 C
24 dB
8 Deg
26 dB
> 24 dB
-20 dB
40 lbs
8.2 lbs
34 x 28 in., 86 x 71 cm
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 46
Figure 25 : High Gain External Antenna Radiation Characteristics
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 47
6.8 Acronyms/Abbreviations
ACK................... acknowledgment
ALM.................. alarm
ANSI ................. American National Standards Institute
AR...................... access rate
ARP ................... address resolution protocol
async ................. asynchronous
BOP ................... bit oriented protocol
CCITT............... Consultive Committee for International Telephony and Telegraphy
CD ..................... carrier detect
CO ..................... central office
CPE.................... customer premise equipment
CR, C/R............. command response
CRC................... cyclic redundancy check
CS ...................... clear to send
CSU ................... channel service unit
CTS.................... clear to send
dB....................... decibel
DCD.................. data carrier detect
DCE ................... data communications equipment
DDS................... digital data service
DSR................... data set ready
DSU................... data service unit
DTE ................... data terminal equipment
DTR................... data terminal ready
EA ...................... extended address
FEP..................... front end processor
FIFO................... first in first out
FR....................... frame relay
FRAD ................ frame relay access device
FSU.................... frame relay service unit
GUI.................... graphical user interface
HDLC................ high-speed data link control
IA....................... inactive
IP........................ internet protocol
ISDN................. integrated services digital network
ITU..................... International Telecommunications Union
KA...................... keep alive
kbps................... kilobits per second
LAN................... local area network
LED.................... light emitting diode
LLC.................... logical link control
LMI.................... local management interface
LRC ................... lateral redundancy check
MIB ................... management information base
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 48
ms ...................... millisecond
OCU .................. office channel unit
OOS................... out of service
PPP .................... point-to-point protocol
PU...................... physical unit
PVC ................... permanent virtual circuit
RD ..................... receive data
RDL................... remote digital loopback
RFC.................... request for comments
RIP..................... routing information protocol
RMA.................. return material authorization
RNR................... receiver not ready
RR...................... receiver ready
RS ...................... request to send; also recommended standard
RTS.................... request to send
Rx....................... receive
SAP.................... service access point
SDLC................. synchronous data link control
SLIP................... serial line internet protocol
SNA................... systems network architecture
SNMP ............... simple network management protocol
SPID.................. service profile identifier
SR ...................... data set ready
SW56 ................. switched 56
sync.................... synchronous
TD...................... transmit data
TR ...................... data terminal ready
TX ....................... transmit
UA...................... unavailable
UNI.................... user-to-network interface
WAN.................. wide area network
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6.9 Glossary
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Devices and proposes recommendations for international communications
standards.
asynchronous
A method of data transmission which allows characters to be sent at irregular
intervals by preceding each character with a start bit, followed by a stop bit.
bandwidth
The bandwidth determines the rate at which information can be sent through a
channel (the greater the bandwidth, the more information that can be sent in a
given amount of time).
bridge
A device that supports LAN-to-LAN communications. Bridges may be equipped
to provide frame relay support to the LAN devices they serve. A frame relay
capable bridge encapsulates LAN frames in frame relay frames and feeds them
to a frame relay switch for transmission across the network. A frame relay
capable bridge also receives frame relay frames from the network, strips the frame
relay frame off each LAN frame, and passes the LAN frame on to the end device.
Bridges are generally used to connect LAN segments to other LAN segments or
to a WAN. They route traffic on the Level 2 LAN protocol (e.g. the Media Access
Control address), which occupies the lower sub-layer of the LAN OSI data link
layer. See also router.
CD
carrier detect. A signal generated by a modem or DSU/CSU. CD indicates the
presence of a carrier signal on a communications link.
channel service unit
CSU. A device used to connect a digital phone line (T1 or Switched 56 line)
coming in from the phone company to either a multiplexer, channel bank, or
directly to another device producing a digital signal; for example, a digital PBX, a
PC, or data communications device. A CSU performs certain line-conditioning and
equalization functions, and responds to loopback commands sent from the central
office. A CSU regenerates digital signals. It monitors them for problems, and
provides a way of testing the digital circuit.
clocking
An oscillator-generated signal that provides a timing reference for a transmission
link. A clock provides signals used in a transmission system to control the
timing of certain functions. The clock has two functions, (1) to generate periodic
signals for synchronization and (2) to provide a time base.
CPE
customer premise equipment. All telecommunications terminal equipment
located on the customer premises, including telephone sets, private branch
exchanges (PBXs), data terminals, and customer-owned coin-operated
telephones.
C/R bit
In the Q.921 protocols, a bit that identifies a data-link-layer frame as either a
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 50
command or a response.
CRC
cyclic redundancy check. A computational means to ensure the accuracy of
frames transmitted between devices in a frame relay network. The mathematical
function is computed, before the frame is transmitted, at the originating device.
Its numerical value is computed based on the content of the frame. This value is
compared with a recomputed value of the function at the destination device.
CS
See CTS.
CSU
See channel service unit.
CTS
clear to send. A signal on the DTE interface indicating that the DCE is clear to
send data.
DBU
dial backup. Providing a secondary, switched dial service to route data upon
primary link failure.
data service unit
DSU. A device designed to transmit and receive digital data on digital transmission
facilities.
dB
decibel. A unit of measure of signal strength, usually the relation between a
transmitted signal and a standard signal source.
data communications equipment (DCE)
Device that provides all the functions required for connection to telephone
company lines and for converting signals between telephone lines and DTE. Also
see DTE.
DDS
digital data service. A private line digital service, for transmitting data end-to-end
at speeds of 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, and 56 kbps and in some cases 19.2, 38.4, or 64 kbps.
The systems can use central hub offices for obtaining test access, bridging legs of
multipoint circuits, and cross connecting equipment. DDS is offered on an inter-
LATA basis by AT&T and on an inter-LATA basis by the Bell operating companies.
data link connection identifier (DLCI)
A unique number assigned to a PVC end point in a frame relay network. Identifies
a particular PVC endpoint within a user's access channel in a frame relay
network and has local significance only to that channel.
discard eligibility (DE)
A user-set bit indicating that a frame may be discarded in preference to other
frames if congestion occurs, to maintain the committed quality of service within
the network. Frames with the DE bit set are considered Be excess data.
DSR
data set ready. A signal on the EIA-232 interface that indicates if the
communications is connected and ready to start handshaking control signals so
communications can begin.
DSU
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 51
See data service unit.
DSU loopback
A Telco initiated test which loops the DSU back to the Telco and is used to test the
DDS circuit as well as the DSU/CSU.
DTE
data terminal equipment. The end-user terminal or computer that plugs into the
termination point (DCE) of a communications circuit. The main difference
between the DCE and the DTE is that pins two and three are reversed.
end device
The ultimate source or destination of data flowing through a frame relay net-work
sometimes referred to as DTE. As a source device, it sends data to an inter-face
device for encapsulation in a frame relay frame. As a destination device, it
receives de-encapsulated data (i.e., the frame relay frame is stripped off, leaving
only the user's data) from the interface device.
encapsulation
A process by which an interface device places an end device's protocol-specific
frames inside a frame rely frame. The network accepts only frames formatted
specifically for frame relay; therefore interface devices acting as interfaces to a
frame relay network must perform encapsulation. See also interface device and
frame-relay-capable interface device.
file server
In the context of frame relay network supporting LAN-to-LAN communications,
a device connecting a series of workstations within a given LAN. The device per-
forms error recover and flow control functions as well as end-to-end
acknowledgment of data during data transfer, thereby significantly reducing
overhead within the frame relay network.
gateway
A device which enables information to be exchanged between two dissimilar
systems or networks.
high level data link control (HDLC)
A generic link-level communications protocol developed by the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO). HDLC manages synchronous code-
transparent, serial information transfer over a link connection. See also
synchronous data link control (SDLC).
host computer
The primary or controlling computer in a multiple computer operation.
in-band
Signaling (dialing, diagnostics, management, configuration, etc.) over the same
channel used for data.
ingress
Frame relay frames leaving from an access device in a direction toward the
frame relay network.
interface device
Provides the interface between the end device(s) and a frame relay network by
encapsulating the user's native protocol in frame relay frames and sending the
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frames across the frame relay backbone. See also encapsulation and frame-relay-
capable interface device.
IP
internet protocol. A protocol which provides for transmitting blocks of data
between hosts identified by fixed-length addresses.
ISDN
integrated services digital network. A network architecture that enables end-to-end
digital connections. The network supports diverse services through integrated
access arrangements and defines a limited set of standard, multipurpose
interfaces for equipment vendors, network providers, and customers. Inter-working
with a public switched telephone network is retained.
local area network (LAN)
A privately owned network that offers high-speed communications channels to
connect information processing equipment in a limited geographic area.
MIB
management information base. A database of network management information
used by SNMP.
multi-point
A configuration or topology designed to transmit data between a central site and
a number of remote terminals on the same circuit. Individual terminals will
generally be able to transmit to the central site but not to each other.
out-of-band
Signaling that is separated from the channel carrying information (voice, data,
video, etc.). Typically the separation is accomplished by a filter. The signaling
includes dialing and other supervisory signals.
packet
A message containing both control information and data. The control information
is used for routing the packet through a network to its final destination.
Contrast with frame relay frame.
packet-switching network
A telecommunications network based on packet-switching technology, wherein
a transmission channel is occupied only for the duration of the transmission of
the packet. Contrast with frame relay network.
parameter
A numerical code that controls an aspect of terminal and/or network operation.
Parameters control such aspects as page size, data transmission speed, and
timing options.
ping
An internet protocol standard that provides loopback on demand for any device
in an IP network. One device "pings" another by sending a loopback request to
the device's IP address.
point-to-point
Type of communications link that connects a single device to another single
device, such as a remote terminal to a host computer.
remote configuration
FT-512 Trailblazer Installation and User Manual version 1.08 53
A feature that allows the slave to be configured from the master or VT-100
compatible terminal.
router
A device that supports LAN-to-LAN communications. Routers may be
equipped to provide frame relay support to the LAN devices they serve. A
frame-relay-capable router encapsulates LAN frames in a frame relay frames
and feeds those frame relay frames to a frame relay switch for transmission
across the network. A frame-relay-capable router also receives frame relay
frames from the network, strips the frame relay frame off each frame to produce
the original LAN frame, and passes the LAN frame on to the end device. Routers
connect multiple LAN segments to each other or to a WAN. Routers route traffic
on the Level 3 LAN protocol (e.g., the internet protocol address). See also bridge.
sealing current
A designation for a powering situation that consists of a wet loop without span
power.
service
The provision of telecommunications to customers by a common carrier,
administration, or private operating agency, using voice, data, and/or video
technologies.
SNMP
simple network management protocol. A control and reporting scheme widely
used to manage devices from different vendors. SNMP operates on top of the
Internet protocol.
switched network
The network of dial-up telephone lines using circuit switching to provide
communications services to network users.
synchronous
Communications in which the timing is achieved by sharing a single clock. Each
end of the transmission synchronizes itself with the use of clocks and information
sent along with the transmitted data.
synchronous data link control (SDLC)
A link-level communications protocol used in an international business
machines (IBM) systems Network Architecture (SNA) network that manages
synchronous, code-transparent, serial information transfer over a link connection.
SDLC is a subset of the HDLC protocol developed by ISO.
TELNET
The standard TCP/IP remote login protocol
VT-100
A non-intelligent terminal or terminal emulation mode used for asynchronous
communications.