612804205L1A 1A TRACER 4205 Systems Manual

User Manual: TRACER 4205 Systems Manual

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 56

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

TRACER 4205
System Manual

612804205L1-1A
August 2002

12804205L1A

TRACER 4205 System (Plan A)

12804205L1B

TRACER 4205 System (Plan B)

Trademarks
Any brand names and product names included in this manual are trademarks, registered trademarks, or
trade names of their respective holders.

To the Holder of the Manual
The contents of this manual are current as of the date of publication. ADTRAN reserves the right to change
the contents without prior notice.
In no event will ADTRAN be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages or for
commercial losses even if ADTRAN has been advised thereof as a result of issue of this publication.

901 Explorer Boulevard
P.O. Box 140000
Huntsville, AL 35814-4000
Phone: (256) 963-8000
©2002 ADTRAN, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.

About this Manual
This manual provides a complete description of the TRACER 4205 system and system software.
The purpose of this manual is to provide the technician, system administrator, and manager with
general and specific information related to the planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of the
TRACER 4205. This manual is arranged so that needed information can be quickly and easily found. The
following is an overview of the contents.

Section 1

4205 System Description
Provides managers with an overview of the TRACER 4205 system.

Section 2

Microwave Path Engineering Basics
Explains the basics of analyzing a wireless microwave link, or path. The significant
parameters are defined, and several recommendations are offered.

Section 3

Engineering Guidelines
Provides information to assist network designers with incorporating the
TRACER 4205 system into their networks.

Section 4

Network Turnup Procedure
Provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the TRACER 4205 unit, determine the
parameters for the system, install the network and option modules, and power up the
system.

Section 5

User Interface Guide
Explains the terminal interface and provides a description for each of the menus available
for the TRACER 4205 system.

Section 6

Troubleshooting Guide
Provides helpful information for troubleshooting common configuration problems for the
TRACER 4205 system.

Revision History
This is the first issue of this manual.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

3

Notes provide additional useful information.

Cautions signify information that could prevent service interruption.

Warnings provide information that could prevent damage to the equipment or
endangerment to human life.

Safety Instructions
When using your telephone equipment, please follow these basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of
fire, electrical shock, or personal injury:
1. Do not use this product near water, such as a bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a
wet basement, or near a swimming pool.
2. Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless-type) during an electrical storm. There is a remote
risk of shock from lightning.
3. Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
4. Use only the power cord, power supply, and/or batteries indicated in the manual. Do not dispose of
batteries in a fire. They may explode. Check with local codes for special disposal instructions.

Save These Important Safety Instructions

4

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

Federal Communications Commission Radio Frequency Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio frequencies. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.

Shielded cables must be used with this unit to ensure compliance with Class A FCC limits.

Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

5

Warranty and Customer Service
ADTRAN will repair and return this product within five years from the date of shipment if it does not meet
its published specifications or fails while in service. For detailed warranty, repair, and return information
refer to the ADTRAN Equipment Warranty and Repair and Return Policy Procedure.
Return Material Authorization (RMA) is required prior to returning equipment to ADTRAN.
For service, RMA requests, or further information, contact one of the numbers listed at the end of this
section.

LIMITED PRODUCT WARRANTY
ADTRAN warrants that for five years from the date of shipment to Customer, all products manufactured
by ADTRAN will be free from defects in materials and workmanship. ADTRAN also warrants that
products will conform to the applicable specifications and drawings for such products, as contained in the
Product Manual or in ADTRAN's internal specifications and drawings for such products (which may or
may not be reflected in the Product Manual). This warranty only applies if Customer gives ADTRAN
written notice of defects during the warranty period. Upon such notice, ADTRAN will, at its option, either
repair or replace the defective item. If ADTRAN is unable, in a reasonable time, to repair or replace any
equipment to a condition as warranted, Customer is entitled to a full refund of the purchase price upon
return of the equipment to ADTRAN. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is not
transferable without ADTRAN's express written permission. This warranty becomes null and void if
Customer modifies or alters the equipment in any way, other than as specifically authorized by ADTRAN.
EXCEPT FOR THE LIMITED WARRANTY DESCRIBED ABOVE, THE FOREGOING
CONSTITUTES THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CUSTOMER AND THE
EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY OF ADTRAN AND IS IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES
(EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED). ADTRAN SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING (WITHOUT LIMITATION), ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION
OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THIS EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO CUSTOMER.
In no event will ADTRAN or its suppliers be liable to the Customer for any incidental, special, punitive,
exemplary or consequential damages experienced by either the Customer or a third party (including, but
not limited to, loss of data or information, loss of profits, or loss of use). ADTRAN is not liable for
damages for any cause whatsoever (whether based in contract, tort, or otherwise) in excess of the amount
paid for the item. Some states do not allow the limitation or exclusion of liability for incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to the Customer.

6

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

Customer Service, Product Support Information, and Training
ADTRAN will repair and return this product if within five years from the date of shipment the product
does not meet its published specification or the product fails while in service.
A return material authorization (RMA) is required prior to returning equipment to ADTRAN. For service,
RMA requests, training, or more information, use the contact information given below.
Repair and Return

If you determine that a repair is needed, please contact our Customer and Product Service (CAPS)
department to have an RMA number issued. CAPS should also be contacted to obtain information
regarding equipment currently in house or possible fees associated with repair.
CAPS Department

(256) 963-8722

Identify the RMA number clearly on the package (below address), and return to the following address:
ADTRAN Customer and Product Service
901 Explorer Blvd. (East Tower)
Huntsville, Alabama 35806
RMA # _____________
Pre-Sales Inquiries and Applications Support

Your reseller should serve as the first point of contact for support. If additional pre-sales support is needed,
the ADTRAN Support web site provides a variety of support services such as a searchable knowledge
base, latest product documentation, application briefs, case studies, and a link to submit a question to an
Applications Engineer. All of this, and more, is available at:
http://support.adtran.com

When needed, further pre-sales assistance is available by calling our Applications Engineering
Department.
Applications Engineering (800) 615-1176

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

7

Post-Sale Support

Your reseller should serve as the first point of contact for support. If additional support is needed, the
ADTRAN Support web site provides a variety of support services such as a searchable knowledge base,
updated firmware releases, latest product documentation, service request ticket generation and
trouble-shooting tools. All of this, and more, is available at:
http://support.adtran.com

When needed, further post-sales assistance is available by calling our Technical Support Center. Please
have your unit serial number available when you call.
Technical Support

(888) 4ADTRAN

Installation and Maintenance Support

The ADTRAN Custom Extended Services (ACES) program offers multiple types and levels of installation
and maintenance services which allow you to choose the kind of assistance you need. This support is
available at:
http://www.adtran.com/aces

For questions, call the ACES Help Desk.
ACES Help Desk

(888) 874-ACES (2237)

Training

The Enterprise Network (EN) Technical Training Department offers training on our most popular products.
These courses include overviews on product features and functions while covering applications of
ADTRAN's product lines. ADTRAN provides a variety of training options, including customized training
and courses taught at our facilities or at your site. For more information about training, please contact your
Territory Manager or the Enterprise Training Coordinator.

8

Training Phone

(800) 615-1176, ext. 7500

Training Fax

(256) 963-6700

Training Email

training@adtran.com

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

Radio Frequency Interface Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for an intentional radiator, pursuant to
Part 15, Subpart C of the FCC Rules. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, it may cause interference to radio
communications.
The limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential situation.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
on and off, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
•
•
•
•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna of the affected radio or television.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the affected receiver.
Connect the equipment and the affected receiver to power outlets on separate circuits.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by ADTRAN could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

9

FCC Output Power Restrictions

The FCC does not require licensing to implement this device. It is the responsibility of the individuals
designing and implementing the radio system to assure compliance with these and any other pertinent FCC
Rules and Regulations. This device must be professionally installed.
Exposure to Radio Frequency Fields

The TRACER 4205 is designed to operate at 5.725 to 5.850 GHz with 100 mW maximum transmit power.
This level of RF energy is below the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) levels specified in FCC OET
65:97-01. The installation of high gain antenna equipment in the system configuration may create the
opportunity for exposure to levels higher than recommended for the general population at a distance less
than 15 feet (4.6 meter) from the center of the antenna. The following precautions must be taken during
installation of this equipment:
•

•
•
•
•
•
•

The installed antenna must not be located in a manner that allows exposure of the general population to
the direct beam path of the antenna at a distance less than 15 feet (4.6 meters). Installation on towers,
masts, or rooftops not accessible to the general population is recommended; or
Mount the antenna in a manner that prevents any personnel from entering the area within 15 feet (4.6
meter) from the front of the antenna.
It is recommended that the installer place radio frequency hazard warnings signs on the barrier that
prevents access to the antenna.
Prior to installing the antenna to the TRACER 4205 output, make sure the power is adjusted to the
settings specified in section 2 of this manual.
During antenna installation, be sure that power to the TRACER equipment is turned off in order to
prevent any energy presence on the coaxial connector.
During installation and alignment of the antenna, do not stand in front of the antenna assembly.
During installation and alignment of the antenna, do not handle or touch the front of the antenna.

These simple precautions must be taken to prevent general population and installation personnel from
exposure to RF energy in excess of specified MPE levels.

10

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

4205 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
This section of ADTRAN’s TRACER 4205 System manual is designed for use by network engineers,
planners, and designers for overview information about the TRACER 4205.
It contains general information and describes physical and operational concepts, network relationships,
provisioning, testing, alarm status, and system monitoring. This section should be used in conjunction with
Section 2, Engineering Guidelines, of the system manual.

CONTENTS
System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Configuration and Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Operational . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

11

Section 1, System Description

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The ADTRAN TRACER® 4205 wireless data system provides transparent extension of DS3 circuits over
wireless links for up to 25 miles (line-of-sight path required). As authorized under Part 15.247 of the FCC
Rules, the TRACER 4205 operates license-free in the 5.8 GHz industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM)
band requiring no FCC licensing of end users.
For configuration and testing, the TRACER 4205 provides the capability to control the remote TRACER
4205 through a separate maintenance channel. The TRACER 4205 has several built-in test capabilities
including remote loopback. Complete configuration and performance data is available through menus
accessed using a standard RS-232 terminal interface.

2.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

The following is a brief list of TRACER 4205 features and benefits:

Configuration and Management
•
•

Easy to use VT100 control port (RS-232 interface) for configuration and monitoring
Remote configuration

Operational
•
•
•
•
•

12

Transparent DS3 transmission over digital microwave link
No license required per FCC Rules Part 15.247
Frequency: 5.725 to 5.850 GHz
Point-to-point, up to 25 miles
1-U high unit for easy rack-mounting

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

MICROWAVE PATH ENGINEERING BASICS
CONTENTS
Line-of-site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Decibels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Receiver Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Antenna Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Path Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Antenna Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Antenna Beam Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Fresnel Zones, Earth Curvature, & Antenna Heights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Coaxial Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Receiver Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Fade Margin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Path Availability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

FIGURES
Figure 1.
Figure 2.

Example Microwave Path with Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Typical Antenna Beam Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

TABLES
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3.
Table 4.

Antenna Gain for Given Dish Diameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Path Loss for Given Path Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Minimum Antenna Height for Given Path Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Typical Coaxial Loss for Common Cable Types, per 100ft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

13

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

LINE-OF-SITE

The TRACER 4205 system is designed for operation in the 5725 MHz to 5850 MHz license-free
industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) band. Radio wave propagation in this band exhibits microwave
characteristics, which are ideally suited for point-to-point, line-of-sight communications. Line-of-sight
essentially requires that the transmitting antenna and receiving antenna are able to “see” each other, and
that the straight-line path between the two antennas is free of any obstructions, such as buildings, trees,
mountains, and, in longer paths, even the curvature of the earth.

2.

Point-to-Point

Wireless communication from a single site to another
individual site. Contrast with point-to-multipoint

Line-of-Sight

An unobstructed, direct path exists between the
transmitting and the receiving antennas.

DECIBELS

The received signal power equation is often expressed in a decibel (dB) format, which turns the power
multiplication and division operations into addition and subtraction operations. In general, any quantity
can be expressed in decibels. If the quantity (x) is a power level, the decibel equivalent is defined as

x dB = 10 ⋅ log 10 ( x )

(dB)

If the quantity x is referenced to a milliwatt (mW), then the decibel-milliwatt (dBm) is used instead of a
generic decibel.

x -
x dBm = 10 ⋅ log 10  -----------1mW
3.

(dBm)

RECEIVER POWER

The radio frequency (RF) signal power that is available at the input to the receiving TRACER 4205 system
is the next parameter of interest in analyzing a wireless path. The TRACER 4205 has a maximum output
power level of 100 mW, which is equivalent to 20 dBm. This output signal will be attenuated and distorted
by various factors, all of which will degrade the original signal and affect the signal strength and quality as
sensed by the receiving unit. A simplified power budget analysis is beneficial to perform after verifying a
suitable line-of-sight path to determine if the microwave path is suitable, even for ideal, non-distorted
signals.
The equation relating received signal power to the other microwave parameters is
2

PT G T G R λ
P R = -------------------------( 4π ) 2 d 2 L

14

(watts, W)

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

where the variables in the equation are defined as
PR
PT
GT
GR
λ
d
L

received power (Watts)
transmitted power (100 mW (max) for TRACER 4205 - adjustable)
transmit antenna gain
receive antenna gain
carrier wavelength (c / ƒ) (meters)
path distance (meters)
other losses (RF coaxial cable, etc.)

The actual transmit and receive antenna gain values are strictly dependent upon the physical characteristics
of the antennas installed for each link. Typical gains are between 20 and 40 dB. For example, a 4 foot
diameter Parabolic dish has 34.2 dB of gain at 5.8 GHz. The carrier wavelength is the physical wavelength
of the main RF carrier being used for communication, and is usually approximated at the center frequency
of the band, which is 5787.5 MHz. This gives a wavelength of 5.18 cm.
The path distance is simply the physical distance between the transmit and receive antennas. For the
TRACER 4205 these distances can range up to 25 miles. The final parameter L incorporates all other
signal power losses in the microwave link, most of which are caused by antenna feed.

4.

ANTENNA GAIN

Best performance will result from the use of a parabolic dish antenna. Antenna gain is determined by the
size of the dish, with typical features detailed below. Dish manufatureres will be able to supply gains for
other types of antennas.
Table 1. Antenna Gain for Given Dish Diameters

612804205L1-1A

Dish Diameter
(in feet)

Gain
(in dBi)

2

28.5

4

34.2

6

37.5

8

40.7

10

42.5

12

44.2

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

15

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

5.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

PATH LOSS

The expression

LP =

 4πd
----------
 λ 

2

 4πdf
------------
 c 

=

2

(dB)

where
f
λ
d
c

carrier frequency (Hz)
carrier wavelength (c / f) (meters)
path distance (meters)
speed of light, free-space (meters)

is called the path loss, and increases rapidly as either path length increases or carrier wavelength decreases
(which happens as the carrier frequency increases). So, longer microwave paths will naturally experience
more path loss than shorter paths. Likewise, higher frequency microwave communication will experience
more path loss than lower frequency microwave communication.
Table 1 tabulates path loss values for various path lengths for the TRACER 4205 system. Values not listed
in the table can be interpolated from those listed.
Table 2. Path Loss for Given Path Lengths

16

Path Length
(miles)

Path Loss
(dB)

1

112

2

118

3

121

4

124

5

126

6

127

7

129

8

130

9

131

10

132

11

133

12

133

13

134

14

135

15

135

16

136

17

136

18

137

19

137

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

Table 2. Path Loss for Given Path Lengths
Path Length
(miles)

Path Loss
(dB)

20

138

21

138

22

139

23

139

24

139

25

140

When using decibel notation, the received power equation becomes

PR = P T + G T + G R – L – 20 · log 10  4πdf
------------
c

(dBm)

or

P R = PT + G T + G R – L – LP

(dBm)

Where, in the second equation the path loss has been lumped into a single quantity, LP, as discussed
previously. When using decibel notation, it is necessary that all quantities are individually converted to
decibels prior to performing addition and subtraction.
When d is expressed in miles and f in GHz, the path loss expression in decibels becomes

LP = 96.6 + 20 ⋅ log 10 ( d ) + 20·log 10 ( f )

(dB)

Figure 1 illustrates a wireless link containing all of the parameters previously discussed.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

17

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

TRACER 4205 System Manual

λ

GT

GR

d, LP

L
PT

L
PR

Figure 1. Example Microwave Path with Parameters

6.

ANTENNA ALIGNMENT

With line-of-sight microwave communications, optimum system performance requires that the
transmitting and receiving antennas are properly aligned. This will ensure maximum received signal power
at each receiver. Antenna alignment must be achieved in both azimuth (along a horizontal plane) and
elevation (along a vertical plane). A received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is used to aid the equipment
installer in determining when alignment is maximized, by simply ensuring maximum RSSI. The RSSI
indicator for the TRACER 4205 system is provided through the VT100 terminal menus accessed through
the RS-232 interface, and is presented as a series of bars indicating signal strength. More bars means more
RSSI, which ensures more received signal strength and better link performance.
If the remote system has acquired a useful signal from the remote system, then the remote TRACER 4205
RSSI can also be viewed from the local TRACER 4205 VT100 terminal menu interface.
An RSSI Test point is also provided on the front panel. The voltage (relative to the gnd test point) present
on this test point represents a relative signal level of receive strength from the far end. The voltage at this
test point can vary from approximatly 0 to greater than 4 Volts DC, with 0 Volts corresponding to no signal
and 4 Volts or better to full signal strength.

18

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

Antenna Beam Patterns
Directly related to the subject of antenna alignment is the topic of antenna beam patterns. Antennas being
used with the TRACER 4205 system will have a particular beam shape determined in part by the physical
construction and geometry of the antenna. The antenna beam patterns are characterized by a dominant
main lobe, which is the preferred lobe to use for point-to-point communications, and several side lobes, as
shown in Figure 2 on page 19. The antenna alignment step to setting up a microwave link is in fact steering
the main lobes of both antennas until the main lobe of one transmitter is centered on the receiving element
of the receiving antenna.
main lobe

side lobes

Figure 2. Typical Antenna Beam Pattern

Antennas are also designed to radiate RF energy efficiently for a specific range of frequencies. Please
consult the data sheet for your particular antenna make and model to ensure that it is specified to operate in
the 5725 MHz to 5850 MHz frequency band.

Fresnel Zones, Earth Curvature, & Antenna Heights
The Fresnel zones correspond to regions in the microwave path where reflections of the intended signal
occur and combine in both constructive and destructive manners with the main signal, thereby either
enhancing or reducing the net power at the receiver.
In general, the odd numbered Fresnel zones (1, 3, 5, ...) add constructively at the receiver, while the even
numbered Fresnel zones (2, 4, 6, ...) add destructively at the receiver.
The first Fresnel zone corresponds to the main lobe, and must be at least 60% free of physical obstructions for
the path calculations to be valid. Since the main lobe contains the vast majority of the microwave energy, this
zone is typically used to determine proper antenna heights when placing antennas on towers or buildings.
The curvature of the Earth becomes a legitimate obstruction for path lengths of 7 miles or greater, and must
also be accounted for when determining minimum antenna heights.
The aggregate expression for minimum antenna height that incorporates both the 60% first Fresnel zone
and the Earth curvature is given by

d- + 0.125d 2
h = 72.1 ---4f

(feet)

where f is in GHz and d is in miles.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

19

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Table 3 tabulates minimum antenna heights for given path lengths.
Table 3. Minimum Antenna Height for Given Path Lengths
Path Length
(miles)
2
4
6
8
10
15
20
25

7.

Min. Antenna Height
(ft)
22
32
41
50
60
86
117
153

COAXIAL CABLE

Coaxial cable will be required to attach the TRACER 4205 to the antenna. The length of the cable will vary
from a few feet to several feet, depending upon your application and the proximity of the TRACER 4205
to the antenna.
Various grades of coaxial cable will work sufficiently well for connecting the TRACER 4205 unit to the
antenna. A low-loss coaxial cable is suggested to minimize cable losses. One end of the cable will require
an N-type male connector (plug) to mate with the TRACER 4205 unit. The other end of the coax will
require a connector compatible with the antenna chosen for the installation, which is usually also an N-type
male connector (plug). Additionally, it is recommended that both connectors on the coaxial cable be
weatherproofed from the elements to prevent corrosion and electrical shorting.
Table 3 gives typical loss figures for some of the more common coaxial cable types, per 100 feet
Table 4. Typical Coaxial Loss for Common Cable Types, per 100ft
Cable Type

Cable Loss (dB/ft)

RG-213, RG-214, RG-293

20

1/4” Coax

11.36

3/8” Coax

9.65

1/2” Coax

6.49

5/8” Coax

4.90

RG-58, RG-8 (air, foam)

Not Recommended

7/8”, 1 1/4”, 1 5/8” Coax

Not Recommended

5.8 GHz Elliptical Waveguide

1.23

In certain areas where lightning strikes are frequent, a lightning arrestor should be installed directly on the
antenna coax. This will help protect the RF electronics in the downstream path from damaging voltages
and currents, including the TRACER 4205 unit.

20

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

8.

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

Receiver sensitivity is a value expressed in decibels referenced to one milliwatt (dBm) that corresponds to
the minimum amount of signal power needed at the receiver to achieve a given bit error rate (BER).
Receiver sensitivity is usually a negative number of decibels, and as such smaller receiver sensitivity is
better for a given BER. Several factors affect receiver sensitivity, including the data bandwidth of the
wireless link, and the amount of additional signal degradation introduced in the receiver electronics. The
receiver sensitivity of the TRACER 4205 is -78 dBm at 10-6 BER.

9.

FADE MARGIN

Fade margin is a value indicating the amount of extra signal power available to the receiver to operate at a
maximum bit error rate (BER). Higher levels of fade margin are better, and will protect the viability of the
microwave link against signal fading. For most applications, 20 to 30 dB of fade margin should ensure a
reliable link. Fade margin is simply the difference between the available signal power at the receiver and
the receiver sensitivity, discussed previously:

(dB)

F = P R – Psens = P R + G T + G R – L – L P – Psens
10. PATH AVAILABILITY

The path availability of a wireless link is a metric that expresses the fractional amount of time a link is
available over some fixed amount of time, and depends on several factors. Path availability is expressed as
–6

3

A = [ 1 – ( 2.5 × 10 )abfd ( 10

– F ⁄ 10

) ] × 100%

(dB)

where the parameters are
a
b
f
d
F

terrain factor
climate factor
carrier frequency (GHz)
path length (miles)
fade margin (dB)

The terrain factor is a quantity that compensates the link availability for different types of terrain.
Generally speaking, the more smooth an area's terrain is, the less availability a wireless link running over
that terrain will have, primarily due to multipath reflections. In contrast, secondary microwave signals will
be randomly dispersed over rough terrain, and will not interfere with the main signal lobe as badly as in the
smooth terrain case. The terrain factor values normally used are listed below:

612804205L1-1A

Terrain

Terrain Factor

Description

Smooth

4

water, flat desert

Average

1

moderate roughness

Mountainous

1/4

very rough, mountainous

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

21

Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics

TRACER 4205 System Manual

The climate factor is a quantity that compensates the link availability for different types of climates
(weather). In general, microwave links operating in areas with high humidity will have less availability
than those in arid areas, primarily because water is a dispersive mechanism to microwave energy, and
causes the main signal lobe to refract and disperse away from the receiver location. The climate factor
values normally used are listed below.

22

Climate

Climate Factor

Description

Very Dry

1/8

desert regions

Temperate

1/4

mainland, interior region

Humid

1/2

humid and coastal regions

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

ENGINEERING GUIDELINES
CONTENTS
Equipment Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Reviewing the Front Panel Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
RSSI Monitoring Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TX PWR Monitoring Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Front Panel LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Reviewing the TRACER 4205 Rear Panel Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Antenna Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
DC Power Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Alarm Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
DS3 (In and Out) Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
RS-232 Connection (Terminal Use) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
RS-232 Connection (Modem Use) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
At-A-Glance Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

FIGURES
Figure 1.
Figure 2.

TRACER 4205 Front Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TRACER 4205 Rear Panel Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

TABLES
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3.
Table 4.
Table 5.
Table 6.
Table 7.
Table 8.

TRACER 4205 Front Panel Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
TRACER 4205 LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
DC Power Connector Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Alarm Contact Connector Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
RS-232 Connection Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Terminal (DTE) Diagram (DB-25) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Personal Computer (DB-9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Modem (DCE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

23

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

EQUIPMENT DIMENSIONS

The TRACER 4205 unit is 19” W, 10.5” D, and 1.75” H, weighs 7 lbs, and can be used in rack-mount
configurations.

2.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

The TRACER 4205 system has a maximum power consumption of 25W and a maximum current draw of
1.2A (at 21 VDC).

3.

REVIEWING THE FRONT PANEL DESIGN

The front panel contains a single control switch for activating a DS3 line loopback, RSSI and TX PWR
monitoring interfaces, a GND interface for reference with the monitoring interfaces, and status LEDs to
provide visual information about the TRACER 4205 system. Figure 1 identifies the DS3 loopback switch,
the various bantam interfaces, and the LEDs.

DS3 Loopback
Switch

Status LEDs

RSSI

TX PWR

GND

Figure 1. TRACER 4205 Front Panel Layout

RSSI Monitoring Interface
The RSSI voltage is a function of the signal strength at the receiver and is used to measure the received
signal strength. RSSI varies approximately from 0 to greater than 4 Volts (V), with 0V corresponding to a
weaker received signal and 4V or better corresponding to a stronger received signal.
The voltage level present at the RSSI test point represents only a relative signal level of
receive strength from the far end. No direct correlation can be made between RSSI voltage
levels and actual receive levels in dBm. This test point is provided to assess relative signal
level for alignment of antennas.

24

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

TX PWR Monitoring Interface
The TX PWR voltage is a function of the selected transmit power level. This voltage ranges approximately
from 0 to 5V, with 0V corresponding to +5 dBm (3 milliwatts) and 5V corresponding to +20 dBm (100
milliwatts).

Front Panel LEDs
With the TRACER 4205 powered-on, the front panel LEDs provide visual information about the status of
the TRACER 4205 system. Table 1 provides a brief description of the front panel features, and Table 2
(continued on page 27) provides detailed information about the LEDs.
Table 1. TRACER 4205 Front Panel Description
Feature

Description

DS3 Loopback Switch

Allows quick activation/deactivation of DS3 line loopbacks

RSSI Interface

DC voltage indicating strength of the received signal at the antenna

TX PWR Interface

DC voltage indicating strength of transmitted signal

GND Interface

Ground reference for RSSI and TX PWR Interfaces

Status LEDs

Provides status information about the system

Table 2. TRACER 4205 LEDs
For these LEDs...

This color light...

Indicates that...

PWR

Green (solid)

the TRACER 4205 is connected to a power source.

Off

the TRACER 4205 is not currently powered up.

Green (solid)

the TRACER 4205 is transmitting on Frequency Plan A.

Off

the TRACER 4205 is not transmitting on Frequency
Plan A.

Green (solid)

the TRACER 4205 is transmitting on Frequency Plan B.

Off

the TRACER 4205 is not transmitting on Frequency
Plan B.

RF DOWN

Red (solid)

there is a communication problem between the local and
remote TRACER 4205 systems.

RF LOW

Red (solid)

the RSSI level is below suggested minimum threshold.

TST

Amber (solid)

unit is performing power-on self-test.

RAI

Red (solid)

the TRACER 4205 received a remote alarm in the DS3 EOC
channel (bits X1 and X2 are both set to zero).

PLAN A

PLAN B

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

25

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Table 2. TRACER 4205 LEDs (Continued)
For these LEDs...

This color light...

Indicates that...

AIS

Red (solid)

the TRACER 4205 received a remote alarm from a connected
DS3 device (properly aligned and framed alternating one-zero
pattern).

LOF

Red (solid)

the TRACER 4205 DS3 framer has lost alignment (due to
receiving too many F or M bits in error).

LOS

Red (solid)

the TRACER 4205 does not detect a DS3 from the connected
DS3 device signal (indicated by receiving 192 consecutive
zeros).

BPV

Red (solid)

the TRACER 4205 detects Bipolar Violations on the received
signal from the connected DS3 device (receiving two
consecutive “one” bits with the same polarity).

LBK

Amber (solid)

the TRACER 4205 is currently in DS3 line loopback.

Amber (flashing)

the TRACER 4205 is currently in DS3 link loopback.

4.

REVIEWING THE TRACER 4205 REAR PANEL DESIGN

The TRACER 4205 rear panel contains the following interfaces:
•
•
•
•
•
•

ALARM interface (terminal block) for connecting to an external alarm monitoring system
DC POWER (terminal block) for connecting to a proper 21-63 VDC power source
DS3 IN and OUT (BNC interfaces) for connecting to a DS3 device

Antenna (N-Type connector) for the antenna feedline cable
Ground lug for connecting to earth ground
RS-232 (DB-25 female) for connecting to a VT100 terminal or PC with terminal emulation
software

Figure 2 on page 27 identifies the various features of the TRACER 4205 rear panel. A detailed discussion
of all interfaces (including pinouts, where applicable) follows the figure.

26

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

DS3 Out
(Transmit)

RS232 Interface
(VT100 Terminal)

DS3 In
(Receive)

DC Power
Connection

Fuse

Alarm
Contacts

Antenna
Connector

Ground
Lug

Figure 2. TRACER 4205 Rear Panel Layout

Antenna Interface
The ANTENNA interface (N-Type connector) connects to the antenna (customer supplied) using standard
antenna feedline cable. When determining the cable specifications for your application, refer to Section 2,
Microwave Path Engineering Basics (Coaxial Cable on page 20) for a discussion on cable length and loss
factors.

Fuse
The fuse holder, accessible from the rear panel of the TRACER 4205, accepts a generic 1 Amp, 2-inch
slow-blo fuse.

DC Power Connection
The TRACER 4205 can operate from a supply between 21 and 63 VDC, with either polarity referenced to
ground, and consumes less than 25 Watts (W). Power supplies should be able to provide up to 30 W at
the selected voltage. Current required (in amps) is determined by dividing the power consumed (in watts)
by the applied voltage (in volts). For example, at 48 V, TRACER 4205 would draw approximately 0.52 A
(25 W/48 V).
Connector type

Terminal Block
Table 3. DC Power Connector Pinout

PIN

NAME

DESCRIPTION

1

+

POSITIVE LEAD (referenced to ground)

2

-

NEGATIVE LEAD (referenced to ground)

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

27

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Alarm Contacts
Normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) alarm contacts are provided on the rear panel of the
TRACER 4205 system. In normal operation, the NC contact is electrically connected to the common
contact (COM) and the NO contact is isolated. During an alarm condition, the NC contact becomes
isolated and the NO is electrically connected to COM. This allows alarm conditions to be reported to
external alarm monitoring systems.
Connector type

Terminal Block
Table 4. Alarm Contact Connector Pinout

PIN

NAME

DESCRIPTION

1

COM

COMMON CONTACT

2

NO

NORMALLY-OPEN CONTACT

3

NC

NORMALLY-CLOSED CONTACT

DS3 (In and Out) Connection
The physical DS3 interface is provided by a pair of 75 Ω BNC connectors for transmit and receive.

The shielding on both BNC connectors are grounded per ANSI T1.404.

RS-232 Connection (Terminal Use)
The RS-232 connector provides a female DB-25 terminal connection (wired as a DCE interface), which is
used for terminal access to the TRACER 4205 system. The RS-232 port provides the following functions:
• Accepts EIA-232 input from a PC or terminal for controlling the TRACER 4205 system
• Operates at 9600 bps
Table 5 on page 29 shows the pinout. Wiring diagrams for connecting to the RS-232 connector (for various
applications) are provided following the pinout.

28

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Connector type (USOC)

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

DB-25
Table 5. RS-232 Connection Pinout

PIN

NAME

DESCRIPTION

1, 7

GND

GROUND

2

TX

TRANSMIT

3

RX

RECEIVE

4

RTS

REQUEST TO SEND

5

CTS

CLEAR TO SEND

6

DSR

DATA SET READY (MODEM CONTROL ONLY)

8

CD

CARRIER DETECT

9-19

—

UNUSED

20

DTR

DATA TERMINAL READY (MODEM CONTROL ONLY)

21

—

UNUSED

22

RI

RING INDICATOR

23-25

—

UNUSED

Table 6. TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Terminal (DTE) Diagram (DB-25)
PIN

NAME

PIN

NAME

2

TX

2

TX

3

RX

3

RX

4

RTS

4

RTS

5

CTS

5

CTS

6

DSR

6

DSR

7

GND

7

GND

Table 7. TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Personal Computer (DB-9)

612804205L1-1A

PIN

NAME

PIN

NAME

2

TX

2

TX

3

RX

3

RX

4

RTS

7

RTS

5

CTS

8

CTS

6

DSR

6

DSR

7

GND

5

GND

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

29

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

TRACER 4205 System Manual

RS-232 Connection (Modem Use)
Modem controls, discussed in Section 5, User Interface Guide, of this manual, will enable or disable
modem control through the RS-232 interface. When this option is enabled from a standard terminal
connection, all RS-232 communications will cease until a modem is attached with a null modem adapter
between the TRACER 4205 and the data modem. The data modem should be configured for AUTO
ANSWER and 9600 bps. When the user connects via modem to the TRACER 4205 unit, communications
via the RS-232 port will resume. If a user accidentally enables modem control from a terminal and disrupts
the RS-232 communication, pressing  three times will temporarily disable the modem control
option (until the system is reset) and access the system configuration to disable modem control.
The TRACER 4205 must be interfaced to a modem via an RS-232 null modem adapter or cable. The null
modem will convert Clear To Send (CTS) and Data Set Ready (DSR) into Ready To Send (RTS) and Data
Terminal Ready (DTR), respectively. These signals will indicate (to most modems) that a valid DTE
terminal device is present. The null modem interface must route Carrier Detect (CD) on pin 8 directly from
the modem, and the modem must source CD only when actually connected to a carrier when using the
RS-232 interface for modem control.
When MODEM CONNECTION is selected in the menu system, the TRACER 4205 will de-assert DTR and
DSR for a time greater than 20 ms. The null modem will consequently drop DTR and RTS at the modem
interface, signaling the modem to hang up the line. If password functionality is enabled in the TRACER
4205, selecting MODEM CONNECTION (logout) will reset the TRACER 4205 to the password entry screen.

Hangup-on-DTR-drop may need to be explicitly enabled on some modems.

Table 8 contains the wiring diagram needed for connecting the TRACER 4205 RS-232 interface to a
modem using the null modem adapter.
Table 8. TRACER 4205 (DCE) to Modem (DCE)

30

PIN

NAME

PIN

NAME

2

TX

3

RX

3

RX

2

TX

4

RTS

5

CTS

5

CTS

4

RTS

6

DSR

20

DTR

7

GND

7

GND

8

CD

8

CD

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

5.

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

AT-A-GLANCE SPECIFICATIONS

The following is a list of specifications for the TRACER 4205 system.
Hardware

Description

Specification

Transmitter
Output Power

+20 dBm, max

Frequency Range

5725 to 5850 MHz

Receive Level, Range

-30 to -78 dBm

Receive Level, Maximum

-30 dBm

Receive Level, Nominal

-50 dBm

Plan A

Tx 5.750 GHz, Rx 5.800 GHz

Plan B

Tx 5.800 GHz, Rx 5.750 GHz

Capacity

44.736 Mbps

Connection

dual 75 Ω BNC connectors (Tx and Rx)

Line Code

B3ZS

Framing

M13, C-Bit Parity

Alarms

AIS, Red, Yellow, BPVs

Loopbacks

Local and remote (line and link)

Diagnostics

DS3 Line and Link Loopbacks

Test Points

RSSI, Tx PWR

Data Rate

9600 bps

Data Bits

8

Parity

None

Stop Bits

1

Terminal Emulation

VT100

Receiver

Frequency Plan

DS3 Interface

User Interface

VT100 Terminal Interface

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

31

Section 3, Engineering Guidelines

Hardware

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Description

Specification

Mechanical and Environmental
Operating Temperature

-25ºC to 65ºC

Size

19” W x 10.5” D x 1.75” H

Humidity

95%, Non-condensing

Weight

7 lbs

Input Voltage

21 to 63 VDC, either polarity
referenced to ground

Power Consumption

< 25 Watts

Connector

2 pin terminal block (DC)

Fuse

1 amp, 250 Volt slow-blo fuse (2-inch)

Power

32

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

NETWORK TURNUP PROCEDURE
CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Tools Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Unpack and Inspect the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Contents of ADTRAN Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Customer Provides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Channel Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Grounding Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Supplying Power to the Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Mounting Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Connecting the DS3 Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

FIGURES
Figure 1.

Bandwidth Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

33

Section 4, Network Turnup Procedure

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

INTRODUCTION

This section discusses the installation process of the TRACER 4205 system.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by ADTRAN could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

2.

TOOLS REQUIRED

The tools required for the installation of the TRACER 4205 are:
•
•

VT100 terminal or PC with terminal emulation software
RS-232 (DB-25 male for TRACER 4205 end) cable for connecting to terminal

To prevent electrical shock, do not install equipment in a wet location or during a lightning
storm.

3.

UNPACK AND INSPECT THE SYSTEM

Each TRACER 4205 is shipped in its own cardboard shipping carton. Open each carton carefully and
avoid deep penetration into the carton with sharp objects.
After unpacking the unit, inspect it for possible shipping damage. If the equipment has been damaged in
transit, immediately file a claim with the carrier, then contact ADTRAN Customer Service (see Warranty
and Customer Service information in the front of this manual).

Contents of ADTRAN Shipment
Your ADTRAN shipment includes the following items:
•
•

TRACER 4205 unit
TRACER 4205 Documentation CD

Customer Provides
The following items are necessary for the installation of the TRACER 4205 system and are not provided
by ADTRAN:
•
•
•
•

34

21 to 63 VDC power source (or AC adapter available from ADTRAN P/N 1280650L1), either polarity
referenced to ground
Antenna and mounting hardware
Antenna feedline cable
DS3 cables (BNC for TRACER 4205 end) for connecting to DS3 equipment

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

4.

Section 4, Network Turnup Procedure

CHANNEL SELECTION

The FCC has allocated 100 MHz of spectrum in the band in which the TRACER 4205 operates. Figure 1
illustrates the bandwidth division.

A

B

5756 MHz

5819 MHz

Channel Plan describes which lobe is transmitted upon.
Example: A will transmit at A lobe and receive at B.

Figure 1. Bandwidth Division

To designate the utilization of the ISM bandwidth, there are two different channel plans, labeled A and B.
The letter of each channel plan setting is preset by the factory and refers to the physical configuration of
the diplexer filter inside the environmental housing. The transmitter at one end of the link will transmit in
the lower portion of the spectrum and receive in the upper portion. Consequently, the receiver at the other
end should receive in the lower portion and transmit in the upper portion. There is one rule for successful
TRACER 4205 configuration.
1. The letter of the channel plan must be different on both ends. Shipment of a link will consist of one
Plan A and Plan B unit.

5.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

The following provides grounding instruction information from the Underwriters’ Laboratory UL 60950
Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment Including Electrical Business Equipment, of
December, 2000.
An equipment grounding conductor that is not smaller in size than the ungrounded branch-circuit supply
conductors is to be installed as part of the circuit that supplies the product or system. Bare, covered, or
insulated grounding conductors are acceptable. Individually covered or insulated equipment grounding
conductors shall have a continuous outer finish that is either green, or green with one or more yellow
stripes. The equipment grounding conductor is to be connected to ground at the service equipment.
The attachment-plug receptacles in the vicinity of the product or system are all to be of a grounding type,
and the equipment grounding conductors serving these receptacles are to be connected to earth ground at
the service equipment.
A supplementary equipment grounding conductor shall be installed between the product or system and
ground that is in addition to the equipment grounding conductor in the power supply cord.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

35

Section 4, Network Turnup Procedure

TRACER 4205 System Manual

The supplementary equipment grounding conductor shall not be smaller in size than the ungrounded
branch-circuit supply conductors. The supplementary equipment grounding conductor shall be connected
to the product at the terminal provided, and shall be connected to ground in a manner that will retain the
ground connection when the product is unplugged from the receptacle. The connection to ground of the
supplementary equipment grounding conductor shall be in compliance with the rules for terminating
bonding jumpers at Part K or Article 250 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70. Termination of
the supplementary equipment grounding conductor is permitted to be made to building steel, to a metal
electrical raceway system, or to any grounded item that is permanently and reliably connected to the
electrical service equipment ground.
The supplemental grounding conductor shall be connected to the equipment using a number 8 ring terminal
and should be fastened to the grounding lug provided on the rear panel of the equipment. The ring terminal
should be installed using the appropriate crimping tool (AMP P/N 59250 T-EAD Crimping Tool or
equivalent.)

The supplemental equipment grounding terminal is located on the rear panel of the
TRACER 4205.

6.

SUPPLYING POWER TO THE UNIT

The TRACER 4205 can operate from a supply between 21 and 63 VDC, with either polarity referenced to
ground. Power supplies should be able to provide up to 30 watts at the selected voltage. A dual pin
terminal plug accepts power at the rear panel of the unit, providing a + and - polarity reference point.
Adapters for this plug are available (P/N 1175043L2) and are furnished with the unit and optional power
supply (P/N 1280650L1).

7.

MOUNTING OPTIONS

Install the TRACER 4205 in a location that requires minimal antenna feedline length (the loss in this cable
directly affects overall system performance). The TRACER 4205 is designed to be mounted in a rack. If
multiple units are installed in one location, one half inch of spacing is recommended above and below the
unit.

8.

CONNECTING THE DS3 INTERFACE

The physical DS3 interface is provided using a pair of 75 Ω BNC connectors for transmit and receive.
Using standard coaxial cable, connect the DS3 OUT interface of the TRACER 4205 to the receive data
interface of the DS3 equipment. Connect the DS3 IN interface of the TRACER 4205 to the transmit data
interface of the DS3 equipment.

36

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

USER INTERFACE GUIDE
CONTENTS
Navigating the Terminal Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Terminal Menu Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Navigating using the Keyboard Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Terminal Menu and System Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Password Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Menu Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
>TRACER System Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
>Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
>TRACER System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
>TRACER Link Performance History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
>DS3 Status/Configuration/Loopback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
>DS3 Performance History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

FIGURES
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Figure 3.
Figure 4.
Figure 5.
Figure 6.
Figure 7.
Figure 8.
Figure 9.

Main Menu Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TRACER System Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TRACER System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TRACER Link Performance History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DS3 Status/Configuration/Loopback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DS3 Link Loopback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DS3 Line Loopback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DS3 Link Performance History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38
40
42
43
45
46
47
48
48

TABLES
Table 1.

DS3 Interface Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

37

Section 5, User Interface Guide

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

NAVIGATING THE TERMINAL MENU

The TRACER 4205 menu system can be accessed with a VT100 compatible terminal set to 9600 bits per
second, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, and no parity, connected to the RS-232 port located on the back of the unit.
Flow control on the serial interface should be configured to None for proper operation. Once a terminal is
connected, pressing  will refresh the current screen. If password access has been enabled, the
ENTER PASSWORD message will be displayed at the bottom of the TRACER 4205 system status menu.

All TRACER 4205 systems are shipped factory default with password protection disabled.

Terminal Menu Window
The TRACER 4205 uses five menu pages and a single main menu page to access its many features. The
main menu page (see Figure 1) provides a link to all available configuration/status pages.

After connecting a VT100 terminal to the TRACER 4205, press  to redraw the
current screen. VT100 access will not be possible until this step is performed.

Figure 1. Main Menu Screen

38

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

Navigating using the Keyboard Keys
You can use various keystrokes to move through the terminal menu, to manage a terminal menu session,
and to configure the system.

Moving through the Menus
To do this...

Press this key...

Move up to select items

Up Arrow

Move down to select items

Down Arrow

Edit a selected menu item

Enter

Scroll through configuration parameters for a menu item

Cancel an edit

Spacebar
Left/Right Arrows
P or N (Prev/Next)
Escape

Return to Main Menu page

M

Session Management Keystrokes
To do this...

Press this key...

Log into a session

Spacebar

Refresh the screen
To save time, only the portion of the screen that has changed is refreshed. This
option should only be necessary if the display picks up incorrect characters



2.

TERMINAL MENU AND SYSTEM CONTROL

Password Protection
The TRACER 4205 provides optional password protection of the terminal interface. If enabled, a password
prompt is presented at power-up, reboot, modem logout, or after ten minutes of inactivity on the terminal.
Password protection is enabled and a password is defined via the system configuration menu.

All TRACER 4205 systems are shipped factory default with password protection disabled.

If the password is forgotten, physical access to the TRACER 4205 unit is required to access the terminal
interface. The password may be bypassed by pressing the DS3 LBK button while the system is rebooted.
This disabled the password and will initialize the TRACER 4205 system status menu to allow the
password to be changed (via the configuration screen).

Rebooting the unit to bypass password protection and redefine the installed password is
service affecting.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

39

Section 5, User Interface Guide

3.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

MENU DESCRIPTIONS

The remainder of this section describes the TRACER 4205 menus and submenus.
The menu structure of the TRACER 4205 system is depicted below as follows:
> MENU PAGE
> MENU PAGE > MENU SELECTION
> MENU PAGE > MENU SELECTION > SUB-MENU

>TRACER SYSTEM STATUS
Figure 2 shows the TRACER System Status menu page. Status of major system components for both sides
of the TRACER link are displayed, but no configuration can be performed from this view.

Figure 2. TRACER System Status

The top of the TRACER System Status menu page displays the elapsed time the TRACER 4205 system
has been operational since the last power reset. Located directly beneath the ADTRAN Technical Support
phone number is a graphical indicator of the status of the TRACER 4205 DS3 and RF links (as reported by
both the local and remote units). The DS3 labels will be reverse highlighted if any error conditions exist on
that DS3 interface.
The status of the received radio link is indicated as RF UP or RF DOWN for each direction. The left portion
of the menu page reports the status of the local TRACER 4205 (the system where the active terminal is
attached). The right portion of the screen reports the status of the remote system. If the RF link is down
from the remote unit to the local unit, LOCAL RX LINK ERROR will be displayed. If the RF link is down from
the local unit to the remote unit, or if the RF link status cannot be determined, REMOTE RX LINK ERROR will
be displayed.

40

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

Press <0> from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
TRACER System Status page.

>TRACER SYSTEM STATUS > FREQUENCY PLAN
Displays the frequency plan (A or B) for the TRACER 4205 unit. For an operational TRACER 4205
system, the local and remote units should display opposite frequency plans.

>TRACER SYSTEM STATUS > SITE
Displays the site name configured from the TRACER System Configuration page.

>TRACER SYSTEM STATUS > RX POWER
Displays the approximate receiver levels (for both the local and remote units) using a series of symbols (#).
The more symbols (#) displayed, the stronger the signal. If the link is down and remote end data is
unavailable, DATA NOT AVAILABLE is displayed in place of the symbols (#).

>TRACER SYSTEM STATUS > TX POWER
Displays the approximate transmitter levels (for both the local and remote units) using a series of symbols
(#). The more symbols (#) displayed, the stronger the signal. If the link is down and remote end data is
unavailable, DATA NOT AVAILABLE is displayed in place of the symbols (#).

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

41

Section 5, User Interface Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

>MAIN MENU
The TRACER 4205 Main Menu page provides access to all other configuration/status pages. Figure 3
shows the TRACER Main Menu page.

Figure 3. Main Menu

Use the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the available pages, or enter the number of the selected
page (to highlight the menu page) and press .

Press  from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
TRACER Main Menu page.

42

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
Figure 4 shows the TRACER System Configuration menu page. System configuration parameters for both
the local and remote TRACER 4205 units are available through this menu page.

Figure 4. TRACER System Configuration

Press <1> from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
TRACER System Configuration menu page.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > RX POWER
Displays the approximate receiver levels (for both the local and remote units) using a series of symbols (#).
The more symbols (#) displayed, the stronger the signal. If the link is down and remote end data is
unavailable, DATA NOT AVAILABLE is displayed in place of the symbols (#). This parameter is display only.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > TX POWER
Allows the transmitter levels (for both the local and remote units) to be adjusted. The current transmitter
level is displayed using a series of symbols (#). The more symbols (#) displayed, the stronger the signal. If
the link is down and remote end data is unavailable, D ATA NOT AVAILABLE is displayed in place of the
symbols (#).

Reducing the transmitter power of the remote TRACER 4205 could negatively impact the
TRACER RF link.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

43

Section 5, User Interface Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > SITE NAME
Enter up to 32 alphanumeric characters to be displayed for identification of the TRACER 4205 system.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > MODEM CONTROL
Configures the modem control leads on the RS-232 port (terminal interface located on the rear panel of the
unit). Set MODEM C ONTROL to ENABLED when connecting the unit to a modem (using a null modem
adapter). Setting MODEM CONTROL to D ISABLED prevents the TRACER 4205 from monitoring DCD and
enables data to be sent to the VT 100 continuously. MODEM CONTROL must be set to DISABLED when the
VT100 terminal is in use. The TRACER 4205 comes factory programmed with MODEM C ONTROL set to
DISABLED.

Press  three times from the terminal interface to temporarily disable MODEM
CONTROL when the modem control leads are active.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > MODEM CONNECTION (LOGOUT)
Activator to cause the TRACER 4205 to de-assert Clear To Send (CTS) and DSR for a time greater than 20
milliseconds. This signals the modem to disconnect the analog connection. Hangup-On-DTR-Drop may
need to be explicitly enabled on some modems. If PASSWORD PROTECTION is ENABLED, this menu also
causes the unit to close the current session and return to the TRACER System Status menu page and wait
for password input.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > PASSWORD ENABLE
Configures password protection for the VT100 terminal interface. Password protection for the TRACER
4205 requires password input from the TRACER System Status menu page when connecting to the unit.
When configured for Password protection, the TRACER 4205 closes any terminal session that remains
inactive for more than 10 minutes. The TRACER 4205 comes factory programmed with PASSWORD
ENABLE set to DISABLED.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > PASSWORD
Sets the password for password protection of the TRACER 4205 VT100 terminal interface. Enter up to 8
alphanumeric characters. The system password is case sensitive.

The default password for the TRACER 4205 is tracer.

>TRACER SYSTEM CONFIGURATION > PERFORMANCE STATS (CLEAR)
Activator to reset all system error counters for the TRACER 4205.

44

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

>TRACER LINK PERFORMANCE HISTORY
Figure 5 shows the TRACER Link Performance History menu page. The TRACER Link Performance
History menu page displays detailed error statistics for the RF link (from both the local and remote
TRACER 4205 units) in 15-minute increments.

Figure 5. TRACER Link Performance History

RF performance data is presented as link (LNK) errors which represent errored seconds received on the
wireless link. This is generally an indication of path or interference problems.
The minimum received signal level (MIN RSL) is represented as a numerical value from 0 to 255 with 0
corresponding to no receive power and 255 corresponding to an extremely hot signal. The minimum
received signal level is directly related to RSSI.
The error count for the most recent 24 hours are recorded and displayed on the right side of the page. The
left side of the page displays the 24 hour totals for the most recent 7 days.

Press  to view the next 8 hours worth of 15-minute totals and 
 to view the
previous 8 hours.

Press <2> from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
TRACER Link Performance History menu page.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

45

Section 5, User Interface Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK
Figure 6 shows the DS3 Status/Configuration/Loopback menu page. Real-time graphical representation for
the DS3 link (using data from both the local and remote TRACER 4205 units) is displayed on this page.
DS3 operational configuration parameters and testing functions are configured from this menu.

Figure 6. DS3 Status/Configuration/Loopback

Press <3> from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
DS3 Status/Configuration/Loopback menu page.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > DS3 INTERFACE ALARMS
Displays any active alarms on the DS3 link (reported from both the local and remote TRACER 4205
units). These alarms include Red, Blue, Yellow, AIS, and bipolar violations (BPV). See Section 6,
Troubleshooting Guide, for more information on these alarms.
Table 1. DS3 Interface Alarms
BPV

Activates when the incoming DS3 stream presents bipolar violations (BPVs). BPVs are
received when two consecutive “one” bits are the same polarity.

AIS

An AIS signal is a properly aligned and framed alternating one-zero pattern. The TRACER
4205 will transmit a blue alarm (RMT) to the remote equipment when an incoming alarm is
received from a connected DS3 device. The remote equipment should transmit the AIS
yellow alarm which will be passed by the TRACER 4205 to the connected DS3 device.

RMT

Activates when an incoming remote alarm is received (from the DS3 equipment) in the
DS3 EOC channel (bits X1 and X2 are both set to zero).

46

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

Table 1. DS3 Interface Alarms (Continued)
LOS

Activates when no DS3 signal is present from the connected DS3 equipment. LOS is
activated after receiving 192 consecutive zeros.

LOF

Activates when the DS3 framer loses alignment due to too many F bits or M bits in error.

IDLE

Connected DS3 equipment is indicating that the line is not in use by transmitting a
properly aligned and frame 1100... pattern.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > DS3 LINE BUILD OUT
Configures the DS3 for the appropriate line buildout, based on the distance to the DS3 equipment. Use
DSX for 0-255 feet and HIGH for distances greater than 255 feet.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > ALARM REPORTING
Determines whether the TRACER 4205 unit will report active alarms. If DISABLED, no alarms will be
displayed on this menu page. The ALARM R EPORTING parameter is independently configured for the local
and remote TRACER 4205 units. When disabled, the front panel LED alarms will also be disabled (OFF).

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > SIGNALING
Configures the framing format for the DS3 link for both the local and remote TRACER 4205 units. The
TRACER 4205 transparently transports DS3 data across the link (as long as the DS3 signal is properly
timed). Configure the framing format (using the SIGNALING menu) to enable the TRACER 4205 to monitor
incoming framing error events and indicate problems with the attached metallic service. The TRACER
4205 supports both M13 and C-BIT parity modes.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > LINE CODE
Sets the line coding for the DS3 link. The TRACER 4205 supports only B3ZS line coding.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > LOOP/NORMAL STATE
Controls the loop status of the DS3 link. Activates/deactivates loopback conditions for testing purposes.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > LOOP/NORMAL STATE > NORMAL
The DS3 link is in normal data transport mode - there are no active loopbacks.

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > LOOP/NORMAL STATE > LINK
Activates a loopback at the TRACER 4205 DS3 framer towards the wireless link (see Figure 7). Use the
LINK loopback to test data path integrity from one unit across the wireless link.

Figure 7. DS3 Link Loopback

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

47

Section 5, User Interface Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

>DS3 STATUS/CONFIGURATION/LOOPBACK > LOOP/NORMAL STATE > LINE
Activates a loopback at the TRACER 4205 DS3 framer towards the locally connected DS3 equipment (see
Figure 8). Use the LINE loopback to test data path integrity from the TRACER 4205 unit to the DS3
equipment.

Figure 8. DS3 Line Loopback

>DS3 PERFORMANCE HISTORY
Figure 5 shows the DS3 Performance History menu page. The DS3 Performance History menu page
displays detailed error statistics for the DS3 link (from both the local and remote TRACER 4205 units) in
15-minute increments.

Figure 9. DS3 Link Performance History

DS3 performance data is presented as Errored Seconds (ES) and Severely Errored Seconds (SES) on the
DS3 link. The following events qualify as an ES–AIS, LOS or LOF Alarm Second, a single BPV or
excessive zero event, or a single parity bit. An SES is caused by an AIS, LOS or LOF Alarm Second, or
excessive Bipolar Violations (BPVs) or framed Parity Bit errors causing a line Bit Error Rate (BER) of
10^-6.

48

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 5, User Interface Guide

The error count for the most recent 24 hours are recorded and displayed on the right side of the page. The
left side of the page displays the 24 hour totals for the most recent 7 days.

Press  to view the next 8 hours worth of 15-minute totals and 
 to view the
previous 8 hours.

Press <4> from any menu in the TRACER 4205 VT100 menu structure to access the
DS3 Link Performance History menu page.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

49

Section 5, User Interface Guide

50

TRACER 4205 System Manual

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
CONTENTS
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
LED Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
PWR LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
TST LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
RF DOWN LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
RF LOW LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
LOS LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
LOF LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
AIS LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
RAI LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
BPV LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
RF Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Installing/Troubleshooting the TRACER Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Installing/Configuring DS3 Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

51

Section 6, Troubleshooting Guide

1.

TRACER 4205 System Manual

OVERVIEW

This troubleshooting guide provides recommended actions for various conditions of the TRACER 4205
system. The status LEDs (located on the front panel of the unit) provide information to help determine the
necessary troubleshooting action. Recommended actions for resolving possible status LED indicators are
contained in this guide.

2.

LED INDICATORS

PWR LED
If the PWR LED is not ON and solid green, it is an indicator that the TRACER 4205 is not receiving
adequate DC power.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify that the power source is delivering between 21 and 63 VDC.
2. Check the polarity of the power connection (referenced to ground) of both the TRACER 4205 unit and
the power source.
3. Check the internal fuse. The fuse is accessed from the rear panel of the unit. If this fuse is open,
replace with a 1Amp, 250 Volt (2-inch) slow-blo fuse.

TST LED
The TST will remain ON (solid Amber) during power-up to indicate a self-test is in progress. If the TST
LED is blinking or remains ON after 10 seconds, this indicates that the TRACER 4205 unit has failed
self-test. This is an internal failure, and ADTRAN technical support should be contacted.

RF DOWN LED
If the RF DOWN LED is ON (solid Red), it is an indicator that there is a problem with the RF link to the
TRACER 4205.
Recommended Actions:
1. Check the RF coaxial cable connection.
2. Measure the RSSI voltage. If the signal is acceptable (> 2.0 VDC at RSSI test point), go to Step 6.
3. Verify that one end of the link is configured as Plan A and the other end is Plan B.
4. Verify that the antenna polarization is the same at both ends of the RF signal transmit and receive
path.
5. Verify the RF signal path is clear.
6. Check for possible interference at both ends of the link. If necessary, change polarization and/or Band
Plans at both ends.
7. Check the integrity of lightning arrestors.

52

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 6, Troubleshooting Guide

RF LOW LED
If the RF LOW LED is ON (solid Red), it is an indicator that the received signal is within 10 dB
(approximately) of the minimum operable signal. This condition is typically indicative of a path problem.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify the far-end transmitter power setting is the value that the link planning budget allows.
2. Check all coaxial cable connectors for solid connections. Check for water and corrosion around any of
the connectors.
3. Verify the RF signal path by verifying the antenna alignment.
4. Check the integrity of the cable plant.
5. Check the integrity of lightning arrestors.

LOS LED
If the LOS LED is ON (solid Red), it is an indicator that the TRACER 4205 is unable to detect a viable DS3
received signal from the connected DS3 equipment. This error may be due to a degraded signal or no
signal, or is may be caused by improper framing.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify that the DS3 Coaxial cable is connected to the DS3 interface on the TRACER 4205.
2. Verify that the DS3 Out interface on the TRACER 4205 is connected to the transmit interface of the
DS3 equipment.
3. Verify that the DS3 In interface on the TRACER 4205 is connected to the receive interface of the DS3
equipment.
4. Verify the connections at the opposite end of the DS3 cable.
5. Verify that the framing mode (C-Bit or M13 parity) is the same for both the TRACER 4205 and the DS3
equipment.

LOF LED
If the LOF LED is ON (solid Red), it is an indicator that the TRACER 4205 is unable to detect a viable
framing pattern from the connected DS3 equipment. This error may be due to a degraded incoming signal
or improper framing coming from the attached equipment.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify that the DS3 Coaxial cable is connected to the DS3 interface on the TRACER 4205.
2. Verify that the DS3 Out interface on the TRACER 4205 is connected to the transmit interface of the
DS3 equipment.
3. Verify that the DS3 In interface on the TRACER 4205 is connected to the receive interface of the DS3
equipment.
4. Verify the connections at the opposite end of the DS3 cable.
5. Verify that the framing mode (C-Bit or M13 parity) is the same for both the TRACER 4205 and the DS3
equipment.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

53

Section 6, Troubleshooting Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

AIS LED
An AIS Alarm, when indicated at the TRACER 4205 by a solid red AIS LED, is generated by the attached
equipment in response to an error condition. The root cause must be determined at the attached equipment.
A typical cause of an AIS alarm is a lack of input to a CSU.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify the input to any attached data equipment.

RAI LED
A Remote Alarm, when indicated at the TRACER 4205 by a solid Red RAI LED, is generated by the
attached equipment. When the 4205's DS3 interface experiences a LOF or LOS error, the TRACER 4205
will transmit an AIS Alarm to the remote equipment. The remote equipment should respond with a Remote
alarm.
Recommended Actions:
1. Follow the troubleshooting steps for the LOS Alarm, but do so at the attached equipment.

BPV LED
If the BPV LED is ON (solid Red at time of incident), a Bipolar Violation (BPV) has occurred. BPVs
indicate an improper configuration or faulty wiring.
Recommended Actions:
1. Verify the TRACER 4205 unit and the attached equipment are configured for the same line coding
(B3ZS).
2. Verify the cable connections for the DS3 interface are solid.

3.

RF ERRORS

RF errors can range anywhere from a non-viable microwave path to loose RF connectors.
Non-viable path conditions could be caused by physical obstructions such as buildings, moutainous terrain,
trees, etc., as well as other physical limitations such as excessive path distances and in-band RF
interference. These types of errors are remedied by performing a detailed line-of-sight microwave path
study to determine whether or not a microwave link is feasible for the terrain and environment under
consideration.
If after performing a microwave path study the system is still not operational, ensure that the antennas are
properly aligned. Note that alignment must be achieved in both elevation and azimuth for optimal link
performance. The TRACER 4205 can be used to aid in antenna alignment by looking at the RSSI
submenu. Optimal antenna alignment will correspond to the maximum number of RSSI bars on the
TRACER 4205 terminal display.

4.

STEP-BY-STEP TROUBLESHOOTING

The logical troubleshooting flow presented in this section can be used to set up your TRACER 4205

54

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A

TRACER 4205 System Manual

Section 6, Troubleshooting Guide

system, and also to diagnose a previously installed system. Please contact Adtran Technical support at any
stage during installation and/or troubleshooting if you require assistance.

5.

INSTALLING/TROUBLESHOOTING THE TRACER HARDWARE
1. Perform a detailed path profile for each TRACER 4205 microwave link. A thorough path study
can be used to estimate signal power budgets, fade margins at each receiver, identity potential
line-of-site obstacles, properly size antenna dishes, and determine minimum antenna dish heights
above the earth.
2. Setup all of the TRACER hardware on a work bench. It is also recommended that the actual cables
to be used in the permanent installation be used in the work bench setup. A rigorous work bench
"simulation" of the link will help you alleviate and avoid time-consuming errors.
3. Examine the PLAN A and PLAN Blights on the front panel of each unit. These LEDs indicate the
frequency plan for each TRACER 4205 unit. The frequency plan (PLAN A, PLAN B) LED should
be the opposite on both TRACER 4205 units.
4. Attach the RF coaxial cables to be used in the permanent installation to the N-type connectors on
the base of the TRACER 4205 unit. Attach the other end of the coaxial cable(s) to an RF power
meter or spectrum analyzer if either is available. The power measured by the meter/analyzer will
be the RF power available at the input of the antenna. The TRACER 4205 unit is programmed at
the factory to output approximately 100 mW (20 dBm) of 5.8 GHz RF power. The actual power
level measured by the meter/analyzer will be less than 100 mW due to RF losses through the
coaxial cable, and is a function of cable type and length of cable being used. In any event, the
power level at the output of the coaxial cable should be a significant fraction of 100 mW. A power
meter/analyzer reading that is not on the order of at least tens-of-milliwatts could be an indication
of any combination of either unsuitable RF, faulty, or unreasonably long coaxial cable.
5. Resolve all RF coaxial cabling errors before proceeding.
6. Attach the RF coaxial cables to a 5.8 GHz attenuator, if possible. If you do not have an attenuator,
attach the coaxial cables to the antennas to be used in the permanent installation. If the installation
antennas are not available, small, inexpensive dipole or patch antennas can be used for verification
purposes. If an adjustable attenuator is being used, dial in the amount of attenuation that
corresponds to the path loss value expected for the microwave link in which the TRACER
hardware will be installed. The path loss value can be calculated from a knowledge of the path
length, or provided by a path study. Remember to subtract both antenna gain values from the
attenuator level if these values have not already be accounted for.
7. After setting up the RF pieces, examine the RF DOWN LED on the front panel of each TRACER
4205 unit. If the RF DOWN LED is illuminated (red), the corresponding TRACER 4205 is not
receiving a suitable RF signal from the other TRACER 4205 unit. In this case, the receiving
TRACER 4205 is either receiving a very weak signal, or no signal at all. If the RF DOWN LED is
not illuminated, then the TRACER 4205 units are receiving a suitable RF signal. Suitable RF
power levels for low error rate communication will range from -30 dBm to -78 dBm measured at
the N-type connector input on the TRACER 4205 unit.
8. Resolve any signal level issues before proceeding.

612804205L1-1A

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

55

Section 6, Troubleshooting Guide

TRACER 4205 System Manual

9. Examine the RF LOW LED on the front panel of each TRACER 4205. If this LED is illuminated,
then the TRACER 4205 is receiving a relatively weak signal, however if the RF DOWN LED is
not illuminated, the received signal is being suitably processed by the TRACER system. If you are
receiving a weak signal (RF LOW is ON), please verify that the weak signal is not being caused by
a faulty cable, an insufficiently tightened cable, or some other installation-related problem. Also,
make sure an unreasonably large attenuation value has not been selected if you are using an
attenuator on a work bench setup.
Use the tables in Section 2, Microwave Path Engineering Basics, of this manual to select the
proper free-space attenuation value (in dB) based on the estimated length of the microwave path.
Remember to subtract out both antenna gains (local and remote) from the attenuator setting.
10. Command a link loopback in one TRACER 4205 unit and run pattern from the connected DS3
equipment. This will verify data path between the DS3 equipment and the TRACER 4205 unit.

External pattern generators are required to test data path integrity. A DS3 BERT tester is
suggested.

Installing/Configuring DS3 Hardware
1. If possible, attach any or all of the intended DS3 hardware to the TRACER 4205 units using the
same work bench setup. This step offers the perfect opportunity to configure your DS3 hardware
for proper functioning with the TRACER hardware.
2. Resolve any remaining DS3 equipment-to-TRACER 4205 configuration issues before field
installation, if possible. This will significantly reduce the probability of unsuccessful field
installation.

56

© 2002 ADTRAN, Inc.

612804205L1-1A



---

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.3
Linearized                      : Yes
Modify Date                     : 2002:08:23 09:22:51Z
Create Date                     : 2002:08:23 09:22:22Z
Page Count                      : 56
Creation Date                   : 2002:08:23 09:22:22Z
Mod Date                        : 2002:08:23 09:22:51Z
Producer                        : Acrobat Distiller 5.0.5 (Windows)
Author                          : lhankins
Metadata Date                   : 2002:08:23 09:22:51Z
Creator                         : lhankins
Title                           : 612804205L1A-1A.book
Page Mode                       : UseOutlines

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools