GE MDS DS-NH900 MDS iNet 900 User Manual 2873A iNET IG Body
GE MDS LLC MDS iNet 900 2873A iNET IG Body
  
    GE MDS   >  
Contents
- 1. MDS iNet 900 Installation Guide
 - 2. User Manual Amended Page for RF Exposure Information
 - 3. User Manual Addendum
 - 4. user manual
 - 5. user manaul pt2
 
MDS iNet 900 Installation Guide

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 i
NET 900 Installation Guide
1
CONTENTS
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES  ...................................2
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION .....................................................4
INSTALLATION PLANNING ....................................................5
INSTALLATION .......................................................................5
Step 1—Mount the Transceiver ...................................................5
Step 2—Install the Antenna  ........................................................6
Step 3—Measure & Install Primary Power ..................................6
Step 4—Review the Radio’s Configuration  .................................7
Step 5—Connect the Data Equipment ........................................6
Step 6—Check for Normal Operation  .........................................9
Performance Optimization .........................................................10
USING RSSI TO AIM REMOTE ANTENNAS  .......................10
Method 1—For New Network Installations ................................11
Method 2—Adding iNET units to an existing network ...............13
TROUBLESHOOTING ..........................................................14
FUSE REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE  ................................16
i
NET SPECIFICATIONS  .......................................................17
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE  ..................................................18
FACTORY SERVICE .............................................................18
INSTALLATION REFERENCE CHART ............. (Center Insert)
Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2002, Microwave 
Data Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

2 MDS 
i
NET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
Serviceability of this Manual
Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual, however 
product improvements may result in minor differences between the manual and the 
product shipped to you. If you have additional questions or need an exact specification 
for a product, please contact our Customer Service Team using the information at the 
back of this guide. Microwave Data Systems Incorporated reserves its right to correct 
any errors or omissions. Updated information may also be available on our Web site 
at www.microwavedata.com. This manual is for the use of professionals to guide them 
in the installation, operation and basic system maintenance of the equipment covered. 
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES
The radio equipment described in this guide emits 
radio frequency energy. Although the power level 
is low, the concentrated energy from a directional 
antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow 
people to come closer than 20 centimeters (8 
inches) to the antenna when the transmitter is 
operating in indoor or outdoor installations.
This manual is intended to guide a 
professional installer
 in installing, operating 
and performing basic system maintenance on the described equipment.
FM/UL/CSA Notice 
This product is available for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A, B, C & D Haz-
ardous Locations. Such locations are defined in Article 500 of the National Fire Pro-
tection Association (NFPA) publication NFPA 70, otherwise known as the National 
Electrical Code. 
The transceiver has been recognized for use in these hazardous locations by three 
independent agencies —Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Factory Mutual Research 
Corporation (FMRC) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). The UL certi-
fication for the transceiver is as a Recognized Component for use in these hazardous 
locations, in accordance with UL Standard 1604. The FMRC Approval is in accor-
dance with FMRC Standard 3611. The CSA Certification is in accordance with CSA 
STD C22.2 No. 213-M1987. 
FM/UL/CSA Conditions of Approval
The transceiver is not acceptable as a stand-alone unit for use in the hazardous loca-
tions described above. It must either be mounted within another piece of equipment 
which is certified for hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or conditions 
of approval, as set forth by the approving agencies. These conditions of approval are 
as follows:
1. The transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure that is suitable for 
the intended application.
2. The antenna feedline, DC power cable and interface cable must be routed 
through conduit in accordance with the National Electrical Code.
3. Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should be in accor-
dance with the transceiver's installation manual, and the National Electrical 
Code.
RF Exposure

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 i
NET 900 Installation Guide
3
4. Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may adversely affect the 
safe use of the transceiver in hazardous locations, and may void the approval.
Do not disconnect equipment unless power 
has been switched off or the area is known 
to be non-hazardous.
Refer to Articles 500 through 502 of the 
National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) for fur-
ther information on hazardous locations 
and approved Division 2 wiring methods. 
FCC Notice, U.S.A.
The MDS iNET 900 transceivers comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is 
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful inter-
ference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interfer-
ence that may cause undesired operation.
Only install this device in accordance with the instructions outlined in this manual. 
Failure to comply with these instructions may also void the user’s authority to operate 
this device.
Furthermore, this device is intended to be used only when installed in accordance with 
the instructions outlined in this manual. Failure to comply with these instructions may 
also void the user’s authority to operate this device.
FCC Information
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A dig-
ital 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 fre-
quency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction 
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. 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.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This guide presents installation and initial operating instructions for 
the MDS 
i
NET 900™ transceiver. Following installation, we suggest 
keeping this guide near the equipment for future reference.
The scope of this manual is limited to the safe and effective installation 
of the unit in typical office or non-hazardous industrial settings. Users 
who require optimization of the equipment’s capabilities and oper-
ating range should read the 
MDS iNET 900 Network Administrator’s 
Manual
, P/N 05-2806A01. This manual provides more in-depth infor-
mation on antenna selection and optimization, and extensive coverage 
on user-controllable parameters and diagnostic tools.
EXPLOSION
HAZARD!

4 MDS 
i
NET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
The most essential installation information is contained on the 
Instal-
lation Reference Chart
 found at the center of this manual.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The MDS 
i
NET 900 transceiver is designed to provide network man-
agers with a easy-to-install wireless local area network (LAN) services 
with plug-and-play hardware.
The unit can be reconfigured for any one of three standard operating 
arrangements; some require the use of authorization keys (alphanu-
meric code) purchased from MDS. The model descriptions reflect 
their operating mode capabilities. Supported data interface services 
are one of three arrangements: 1. Ethernet, 2. Serial, and 3. Ethernet 
and Serial. (See Table 1 on page 4 for a summary of core interface ser-
vices.)
The MDS 
i
NET 900 transceivers serve as either an “Access Point” or 
“Remote”. An Access Point (AP) is a wireless hub that usually pro-
vides connectivity into a wired Ethernet LAN/WAN. From a radio 
perspective, an Access Point also serves as the radio network’s 
“master station” providing synchronization signaling to all associated 
i
NET 900 Remotes (RMT) within its radio network.
Table 1. 
i
NET 900 Models and Data Interface Services
Model Variation LAN Data
3
(IP/Ethernet) COM1
Data COM1
Local 
MGT
COM2
Data
Access Point
N/A
Yes Yes Yes Yes
Remote… Bridge
1
Yes No Yes No
Serial 
Gateway
1
No No Yes Yes
Dual 
Gateway
1&2
Yes Yes Yes Yes
NOTES
1. Alternate configurations available via authorization key.
2. Able to be converted to Access Point without authorization key. 
(Not currently available.)
3. LAN port provides access to Management System on all models and varia-
tions.

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 i
NET 900 Installation Guide
5
INSTALLATION PLANNING
This section provides tips for selecting an appropriate site, choosing an 
antenna system, and reducing the chance of harmful interference.
General Requirements
There are three main requirements for installing the radio—adequate 
and stable primary power, a good antenna system, and the correct 
interface between the transceiver and the data device. The center 
Installation Reference Chart
 shows a typical Remote installation. 
Access Point stations typically use omnidirectional antennas whereas 
Remotes, typically use directional antennas such as Yagis.
INSTALLATION
A typical transceiver product shipment consists of an 
i
NET 900 trans-
ceiver, a power connector and a manual. Check the contents against 
the packing list attached to the outside of the shipping box. 
Below are the basic steps for installing an 
i
NET 900 transceiver. 
Should further information be required, see “TECHNICAL ASSIS-
TANCE” on page 18 of this manual for information on contacting the 
MDS Customer Service Department. You will also find support infor-
mation at the Microwave Data System Web site at www.microwave-
data.com on the Internet.
It is highly recommended that the Access Point unit be installed
 first. 
With this plan, it will be possible to quickly check the operation of 
each associated Remote unit as it is placed on the air.
NOTE:
MDS 
i
NET 900 transceivers are shipped from the 
factory set to the “Remote Serial Gateway” mode unless 
they are marked differently.
Step 1—Mount the Transceiver
Mount the transceiver to a stable surface. (Fasteners/anchors/screws 
are not supplied unless specified on the purchase order.) Four threaded 
holes are located on the bottom of the radio that are suitable for con-
necting mounting hardware. Use 6-32 x 1/4 inch screws to attach 
mounting hardware to the bottom of the radio.

6 MDS 
i
NET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
Screws used to hold the mounting brackets to the radio case 
should be SAE 6-32 and should not extend farther than 1/4 
inch (6 mm) into case. This will prevent damage to the 
i
NET’s 
internal PC board.
Step 2—Install the Antenna
Mount the 
i
NET 900’s antenna at least six inches (15 cm) from 
metallic objects and other electrical or electronic equipment. General 
information on the selection and installation of antenna systems is pro-
vided in the 
MDS iNET 900 Network Manager’s Manual
. 
NOTE:
Radio frequency energy generated by the 
i
NET 900 can 
interfere with the operation of nearby low-level electronic 
devices and change the reported values of the data being 
monitored. For this reason, the antenna should be mounted 
at least 10 feet (> 3 meters) from connected device(s), 
sensors and other components of the system.
Step 3—Measure & Connect Primary Power 
The primary power at the transceiver’s power connector must be 
within 10.5–30 Vdc and be capable of continuously providing up to 
500 mA. The optimum voltage is 13.8 Vdc. A power connector with 
screw-terminals is provided with each unit. Strip the wire leads to 
6 mm (0.25"). Be sure to observe proper polarity as shown in Figure 1 
with the positive lead (
+
) on the left.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1. Power Connector
Polarity: Left +, Right –
The 
i
NET 900 must be used only with nega-
tive-ground systems. Make sure the polarity of the 
power source is correct. The unit is protected from 
reverse polarity by an internal diode and fuse.
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
EQUIPMENT
DAMAGE
Wire Ports
Lead
Screws (2)
Binding
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
EQUIPMENT
DAMAGE

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 i
NET 900 Installation Guide
7
The power supply used with the transceiver should be equipped with 
overload protection (NEC Class 2 rating), to protect against a short cir-
cuit between its output terminals and the transceiver power connector.
NOTE:
It typically takes about 60 seconds for the 
i
NET 900 to 
power up and be ready for operation.
Step 4—Review the 
i
NET 900’s Configuration
Two essential settings for 
i
NET 900 transceivers should be known 
before placing the unit into service. They are:
•
Device Mode
—Access Point, or Remote (Default)
•
Network Name—
Unique name of the iNET 900 units asso-
ciated with the network (Required)
The Network Name must be programmed to enable 
i
NET 900 Remote 
units to associate with the Access Point unit.
Several other parameters commonly need to be reviewed and altered 
if necessary. They are:
•
IP Address
—Must be a unique number to allow for IP access 
through the 
LAN
 Port (Ethernet).
•
RF Output Power Level
—Check and adjust as necessary for 
compliance with FCC guidelines. 
(Default = 1 Watt/+30 dBm)
•
Password
—Used for remote access and to use certain 
i
NET 
Management System features.
NOTE:
The default password is 
admin
A unique IP address in the subnet is important if the unit’s 
LAN
 port 
will be used to access the browser-based 
i
NET Management System 
either locally or by way of a LAN/WAN.
How to Review the 
i
NET’s Configuration
The following is a summary of the installation procedure. For more 
detailed instructions on using the HTTP (
LAN
 Port) and text-based 
(
COM1
) Management System, please read the 
MDS iNET 900 Net-
work Administrator’s Handbook
. Key parameters are highlighted on 
the Management System flowchart on the 
Installation Reference 
Chart
.

8 MDS 
i
NET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
a. Connect a computer’s serial communications port (
COM1
 or 
COM2
) to the 
i
NET 
COM1
 Port connector. (Data defaults: 
19,200 bps/8N1)
b. Launch a terminal emulator program, such as HyperTerminal, 
on the computer.
c. Depress the 
ENTER
 key. The radio will respond with the 
start-up screen of the 
i
NET Management System.
A password will be required to make any changes to the radio. 
(Default = 
admin
)
d. Program the 
i
NET Network Name.
e. Review other settings and make changes if necessary, such as 
the unit password and IP address.
Repeat the above steps for each transceiver in the network. 
(See following note)
NOTE:
The Management System supports the use of “configuration 
scripts” which can hold complex parameter arrangements. 
These scripts aid in uniformly configuring multiple 
i
NET 
units. These are detailed in the 
MDS iNET 900 Network 
Administrator’s Handbook
.
Basic 
i
NET Configuration Defaults
The Basic Configuration Defaults table on the 
Installation Reference 
Chart
 provides a summary of selected operating parameters’ range 
and default values. All of these are available through the 
i
NET’s Man-
agement System accessible through a terminal emulator connected to 
the 
COM1
 port or through a browser connected to the 
LAN
 Port.
Step 5—Connect the Data Equipment
Connect IP/Ethernet-compatible equipment data equipment to the 
transceiver’s 
LAN
 port (10BaseT), or one of the serial ports, depending 
on the capability of your 
i
NET model. (See Table 1 on page 4.)
Use only the required pins for the application—do not connect any-
thing to unused pins. For Ethernet, use a straight-through Ethernet 
cable to connect to a hub or a crossover cable to connect directly to an 

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 i
NET 900 Installation Guide
9
Ethernet station or data communication equipment. See the 
Installa-
tion Reference Chart
 for pinout information.
Step 6—Check for Normal Operation
The first priority is to check the basic operation of data communica-
tions between MDS 
i
NET 900 units in the network. When that seems 
OK, connect the user data equipment and verify its proper operation 
through the 
i
NET network. Below are some quick-checks that can be 
performed at various points in the 
i
NET network.
At All iNET Units
The LEDs are a good place to look for indications of normal operation. 
Observe the transceiver LED panel (See the 
Installation Reference 
Chart
) for the proper indications. In a normally operating system, reli-
able LED operation will usually appear within two minutes of start-up.
At the 
i
NET Access Point Unit
• If the Access Point unit is the first you are installing, try sending a 
ping request to the 
i
NET unit from a local or remote computer. 
This will verify basic LAN connectivity.
• If you have already installed a Remote 
i
NET unit, try sending a 
ping to that unit through the 
i
NET Management System ping util-
ity.
At 
i
NET Remote Units
• Look for the 
LINK
 LED to turn on and remain on. This indicates 
the unit has successfully associated with the network’s Access 
Point unit. (The association process may take up to several min-
utes.)
• If the 
i
NET network seems to be operating properly based on 
observation of the unit’s LEDs, connect a computer to the iNET’s 
data port that will be used by the local RTU/data communication 
equipment. Use the ping command to verify the communications 
link integrity with the Access Point unit. 
• If the ping command is successful, connect the RTU/data com-
munication equipment to the iNET data port and verify normal 
operation.

10 MDS 
i
NET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
If all checks out OK, you are done with the installation at this site.
Performance Optimization
After the basic operation of the 
i
NET network has been established, 
you may wish to optimize its performance using some of the sugges-
tions given here. The effectiveness of these techniques will vary with 
the design of your system and the format of the data being sent.
•
Optimize Received Signal Strength
—Check the received signal 
strength indicator (RSSI) for an adequate signal level from the 
radio network’s Access Point. (RSSI is available through the
i
NET Management System) In the absence of interference, signal 
levels of –80 dBm or stronger are sufficient for reliable operation.
If the signal levels are lower, it may be necessary to reposition the 
Remote’s antenna for better reception/signal strength, or if a 
directional antenna is used, align it so that the signal is optimized.
•
Reduce Bit-Error Rate (BER)
—If the bit-error rate of the data 
network is unacceptably high, several techniques can be used to 
improve the BER.
These include indentifying interference and taking corrective 
steps such as skipping some radio frequencies from the hopping 
pattern, increasing the gain of the Remote unit’s antenna system, 
relocating the Remote’s antenna, or installing an 
i
NET repeater 
system.
USING RSSI TO AIM REMOTE ANTENNAS
The MDS 
i
NET 900 network integrity is depends partially on stable 
radio signal levels being received at each end of a data link. In general, 
signal levels stronger than –80 dBm will provide the basis for reliable 
communication. As the distance between the Access Point and 
Remotes increases, the influence of terrain, foliage and man-made 
obstructions become influential and the use of directional antennas as 
Remote locations becomes necessary. Directional antennas usually 
require some fine-tuning of their bearing to optimize the received 
signal strength. The MDS 
i
NET 900 unit has a built-in received signal 
strength indicator (RSSI) that can be used to tell you when the antenna 
is in a position that provides the optimum received signal.

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS
 iNET 900 Installation Guide 11
There are several techniques that can be used to measure RSSI at iNET 
Remote units. The technique you choose to use will depend on your 
available manpower and the need to maintain data traffic on the iNET 
network. It is recommended that this process be completed before the 
network is placed on-line.
Consider using the Method 1 procedure if the iNET Remote is 
receiving a weak or unstable signal. If that is not feasible, a bit-error 
rate measurements may prove to be the best alternative under difficult 
conditions.
The measurement and antenna alignment process will usually take 10 
or more minutes at each iNET unit.
NOTE: RSSI readings are based on multiple signal samples over a 
period of several seconds. The average of this measurements 
will be displayed by the iNET Management System.
Method 1—For New Network Installations
Background
The Access Point and Remote gateway units must be placed into the 
test mode. This requires a data connection to each location to remotely 
control the state of the distant unit outside of the iNET network. If this 
connectivity is available, the iNET Management System may be used 
via HTTP or Telnet and controlled by one person. The alternative is 
two people with telephone or radio communications between each 
location to coordinate the process.
• Use of the Radio Test Mode:
• Placing the Access Point in this mode will disrupt the entire 
network operation.
• All iNET Remotes in the network will need to re-associate 
themselves with the Access Point before they can handle nor-
mal data traffic.
• The Test Mode has a 10 minute timer, after which it will 
return the iNET unit to normal operation.
• The iNET Access Point and Remote units must be on the 
same frequency. The user can choose any frequency within 
the 902–928 MHz bad. Default = 915.0000
• The test mode and your ability to change operating parameters 
will time-out after 10 minutes. You do not need to login again to 
continue to navigate through the Management System. You will 

12 MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
be prompted for a password when you request a parameter 
change after your session has timed-out.
NOTE: Path to menu item shown in bold text below step.
Procedure
1. Verify the iNET Remote is associated with an Access Point unit. 
Observe the condition of the LINK LED.
LINK LED = On or Blinking
This will indicate that you have an adequate signal level for the 
measurements and it is safe to proceed.
2. Place the Access Point unit into the Radio Test Mode.
Main Menu>Diagnostic Tools>Radio Test>Test Mode>Y>ON
Verify the frequency is the same as that which will be used at the 
Remote.
3. Turn on the Access Point transmitter.
Main Menu>Diagnostic Tools>Radio Test>Test Mode>TxKey> 
Enable
User the spacebar to key and unkey the transmitter ON and OFF. 
(Enable/Disable)
4. Place the Remote in the Radio Test Mode.
Main Menu>Diagnostic Tools>Radio Test>ON
Verify the frequency is the same as that used at the Access Point.
5. Read the RSSI level at the Remote.
Main Menu>Diagnostic Tools>Radio Test>RSSI
6. Optimize RSSI (less negative) by adjusting direction of antenna.
7. Turn off Radio Test Mode at the Access Point
Main Menu>Diagnostic Tools>Radio Test>Test Mode>Disable
End of procedure

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide 13
Method 2—Adding iNET units to an existing network
Background
This method will not disrupt traffic through other iNET units in the 
network and does not require the Access Point’s operating state to be 
changed.
If the Access Point is left on-line in an associated state with other 
iNET units in the network, the iNET Remote under test will not be able 
to differentiate the signals received from the Access Point and any 
other radio signal sources in the 900 MHz band. This could lead to 
confusion and possibly misdirecting of the antenna. 
Procedure
1. Verify the iNET Remote is associated with an Access Point unit. 
Observe the condition of the LINK LED.
LINK LED = On or Blinking
This will indicate that you have an adequate signal level for the 
measurements and it is safe to proceed.
2. View and record the bit-error rate (BER).
Main Menu>Performance Information>Bit-Error Rate
This information will used later.
3. Read the RSSI level at the Remote.
Main Menu>Performance Information>RSSI by Zone
4. Optimize RSSI (less negative) by slowly adjusting direction of 
antenna.
Watch the RSSI indication for several seconds after making each 
adjustment so that the RSSI accurately reflects the link signal 
strength.
5. View and record the bit-error rate (BER) at the point of maximum 
RSSI level. The BER should be the same or better than the previ-
ous reading. If not, the antenna may be aimed at an undesired sig-
nal source.
Main Menu>Performance Information>Bit-Error Rate
End of procedure

14 MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
TROUBLESHOOTING
It is best to begin troubleshooting at the Access Point station, as the 
rest of the system depends on the Access Point for network synchroni-
zation and configuration. If the Access Point station has problems, the 
operation of the entire network will be affected.
All radios in the network must meet these basic requirements:
• Adequate and stable primary power
• An efficient and properly aligned antenna system
• Secure connections (RF, data & power)
• Proper programming of the radio’s operating parameters, 
especially Device Mode selection (Access Point/Remote), 
Network Name, and often IP Network Address
• The correct interface between the radio and the connected 
data equipment (proper cable wiring, data format and timing).
Table 2 on page 15 provides suggestions for resolving common 
system difficulties. If problems persist, review the MDS Web site’s 
technical support area for recent software/firmware updates, general 
troubleshooting help, and service information. Additional help is 
available through the MDS Customer Service Department. (See 
“TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE” on page 18.)

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide 15
Table 2. Troubleshooting Techniques
Difficulty Problem/Recommended System Checks
The PWR LED 
does not turn on. a. Voltage too low.—Check for the proper supply 
voltage at the power connector.
b. Microprocessor Locked Up—Cycle the power and 
wait for the unit to reboot. (≈ 30 seconds)
Interference is 
suspected. a. If omnidirectional antennas are used, consider 
changing to directional antennas. This will often 
limit interference to and from other stations.
b. The installation of a filter in the antenna feedline 
may be necessary. Consult the factory for further 
assistance.
The LINK LED 
does not turn on.  a. Network Name of Remote not identical to desired 
Access Point—Verify that the system has a 
unique Network Name. 
b. A nearby system (Access Point unit) with the 
same Network Name causing interference.
a. Not yet associated with an Access Point.
Check the “Status” of the unit’s process of 
associating with the Access Point. Use the iNET 
Management System.
d. Loose Connection—Check for secure interface 
connections at the radio and the connected 
device.
c. Poor Antenna System—Check the antenna, 
feedline and connectors. Reflected power should 
be less than 10% of the forward power reading 
(SWR ≈2:1 or lower). 
Cannot pass IP 
data to WAN. a. Use the PING command to test communication 
with iNET units in the local radio system.
b. If successful with local PING, attempt to PING an 
IP unit attached to an iNET radio.
c. If successful with the LAN PINGs, try connecting 
to a known unit in the WAN.

16 MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
FUSE REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE
The iNET unit is protected by an internal fuse. The fuse will be blown 
by a reverse polarity of the primary DC power, an over-voltage tran-
sient or an internal failure. The fuse should not be replaced until you 
are certain you are in a safe environment
1. Remove the iNET unit from service.
2. Disconnect the primary power source and all other connections to 
the unit.
3. Place the iNET unit on its back and remove the four Phillips 
screws at the corners of the bottom cover.
4. Carefully separate the top and bottom covers. There is a flat ribbon 
cable between the top cover’s LEDs and the unit motherboard. 
You do not need to disconnect the ribbon cable.
5. Locate the fuse and fuse holder between the COM1 port and the 
power connector. Figure 2 is a photograph of the fuse assembly.
6. Loosen the fuse from the holder using a very small screwdriver. 
Use a small pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the fuse straight up 
and remove it.
7. Install a new fuse by reversing the process.
Littelfuse P/N: 0454002; 452 Series, 2 Amp SMF Slo-Blo
(MDS P/N: 29-1784A03)
8. Replace the covers, interface cables and check the iNET unit for 
proper operation.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2. Fuse Location

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide 17
INET SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL
Temperature Range: –30°C to +70°C (–22° F to 158° F)
Humidity: 95% at +40°C (104° F); non-condensing
Primary Power: 10.5–30 Vdc (13.8 Vdc Nominal)
External Power Supply Options: 48 Vdc; 110–120/210–220 Vac
Supply Current (typical): (@1 Watt RF Output)
Transmit: 500 mA @ 13.8 Vdc
Size (Excluding mtg. hardware): 1.5" x 6" x 4" (H x W x D)
3.8 x 15.2 x 10.2 cm
Weight: 0.9 kg / 2 lb
Case: Cast Aluminum
Shock and Vibration: Meets MIL STD 202F, 810E, 202D
RADIO CHARACTERISTICS
GENERAL:
Frequency Range: 902–928 MHz ISM Band
Mode: Freq. Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS)
TRANSMITTER:
Power Output
   (at antenna connector): 0.1 to 1.0 watt (+20 dBm to +30 dBm) 
Increments of 1.0 dB, set by user
Duty Cycle: Continuous
Output Impedance: 50 Ohms
RECEIVER:
Type: Double conversion superheterodyne
Sensitivity: –92 dBm @ 512 kbps < 1x10-6 BER
–100 dBm @ 256 kbps < 1x10-6 BER
Time Required to Synchronize
with Access Point: < 1.4 minutes after boot (typical)

18 MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Technical assistance for MDS products is available from our Cus-
tomer Support Team during business hours (8:00 A.M.–5:30 P.M. 
Eastern Time). When calling, please give the complete model number 
of the radio, along with a description of the trouble symptom(s) that 
you are experiencing. In many cases, problems can be resolved over 
the telephone, without the need for returning the unit to the factory.
Telephone 1+ 585-242-8510 for product assistance or visit the tech-
nical support area of the Microwave Data Systems’ Web site at 
www.microwavedata.com.
FACTORY SERVICE
If return of the equipment is necessary, please contact the MDS Cus-
tomer Support Team. You will be issued a Returned Material Autho-
rization (RMA) number. The RMA number will help expedite the 
repair so that the equipment can be repaired and returned to you as 
quickly as possible. Please be sure to include the RMA number on the 
outside of the shipping box, and on any correspondence relating to the 
repair. No equipment will be accepted for repair without an RMA 
number.
A statement should accompany the radio describing, in detail, the 
trouble symptom(s), and a description of any associated equipment 
normally connected to the radio. It is also important to include the 
name and telephone number of a person in your organization who can 
be contacted if additional information is required.
The radio must be properly packed for return to the factory. The orig-
inal shipping container and packaging materials should be used when-
ever possible. All factory returns should be addressed to:
When repairs have been completed, the equipment will be returned to 
you by the same shipping method used to send it to the factory. Please 
specify if you wish to make different shipping arrangements.
Microwave Data Systems Inc.
Customer Service Department
(RMA No. XXXX)
175 Science Parkway
Rochester, NY 14620 USA

MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide 19
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK

20 MDS iNET 900 Installation Guide  MDS 05-2873A01, Rev. A 
LAN COM1 COM2 PWR LINK