Innovative Wireless Technologies FAP4213210 SENTINEL Integrated Mesh Radio Node User Manual 1
Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc. SENTINEL Integrated Mesh Radio Node 1
SENTINEL IMN User Manual 013-RevE
Revised: 9/25/2018 6650-16-0013, Rev. D
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Integrated Mesh Node
FAP4213-210
Installation and User Guide
Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc.
1100 Main Street
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Phone: 434-316-5230 (United States)
Fax: 434-316-5232 (United States)
www.iwtwireless.com
©2016 Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc.
Not to be reprinted, reproduced or distributed in any form without the written permission of Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc.
Revised: 9/25/2018 6650-16-0013, Rev. D
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Contents
1. INTEGRATED MESH NODE OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................... 3
2. SAFETY INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................. 4
2.1 PART 15 OF FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) RULES COMPLIANCE ..................................... 4
3. SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................................ 6
4. DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................................ 7
4.1 INPUTS AND OUTPUTS ..................................................................................................................................... 7
4.2 COMPONENTS NECESSARY FOR INSTALLATION .............................................................................................. 8
5. PRIOR TO INSTALLATION .............................................................................................................................. 9
5.1 SITE SURVEY ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
5.2 VISUAL INSPECTION ......................................................................................................................................... 9
6. BASIC INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................................................... 10
7. OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................................................... 12
7.1 POWER SWITCH ............................................................................................................................................. 12
7.2 STATUS LEDS .................................................................................................................................................. 12
7.3 ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................... 12
7.4 DISCONNECTING EXTERNAL ANTENNA ......................................................................................................... 12
7.5 BATTERY CARE ............................................................................................................................................... 13
7.6 BATTERY REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................................ 13
8. WARRANTY INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................ 15
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1. INTEGRATED MESH NODE OVERVIEW
Innovative Wireless Technologies’ Integrated Mesh Node (IMN) is a fixed infrastructure device that acts
as a repeater or router in an ad-hoc wireless communications network. The IMN is used primarily in
underground industrial mining applications.
The mesh network supports voice communications, text messaging, and tracking of personnel. High
reliability communications is inherent to the self-healing, self-configuring mesh network architecture by
providing redundant communications paths from one device to another. In the event of any node
failure, the system automatically re-routes signals to another device within radio frequency range.
Under normal operating conditions, the IMN is powered by an internal AC/DC power supply, but also
has an internal backup battery option to ensure communications when main power is lost.
Some key features of the Integrated Mesh Node:
Supports simultaneous Voice/Data/Tracking
High reliability communications in underground environments
Supports peer-to-peer communications with other Mesh Nodes
High quality voice communications with minimal latency
Internal battery backup
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2. SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT! READ BEFORE USING THE INTEGRATED MESH NODE
This section contains important information on the safe operation of the IMN.
The IMN is intended for use in underground and above ground environments.
This device has NOT been evaluated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) per Title 30
Code of Federal Regulations Part 23 and cannot be installed in mines requiring MSHA intrinsic safety
certification.
The antenna must be located a minimum 7.1 feet from any blasting circuits. Remember that the IMN
will continue to run when line power is removed and may still be a hazard to nearby blasting. If blasting
must be done near an IMN, be sure to turn the IMN power switch OFF and attach an appropriate
warning tag.
When installed, power cables must not be intermingled or bundled with RF coaxial cables used to
connect the antenna to the IMN.
Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc.
may void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
2.1 PART 15 OF FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) RULES COMPLIANCE
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1) This device may not cause harmful interference.
2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
FCC ID: SP8-FAP4213210
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio
exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes :
1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage
est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
IC: 9568A-FAP4213210
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This radio transmitter IC: 9568A-FAP4213210 has been approved by Innovation, Science and
Economic Development Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below, with the maximum
permissible gain indicated. Antenna types not included in this list that have a gain greater than the
maximum gain indicated for any type listed are strictly prohibited for use with this device.
The approved antenna types that may be used are:
1) Directional yagi antenna with a maximum gain of +11 dBi
2) Omni-directional dipole antenna with a maximum gain of +5 dBi
IMPORTANT:
•To comply with FCC radio frequency (RF) exposure compliance requirements, the antenna used
for this transceiver must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna
or transceiver.
•The SENTINEL™ Integrated Mesh Node must be installed 20 cm or more from any personnel in
order to comply with FCC and ISED exposure requirements.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate RF
energy which may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions. It is important to note that proper installation does not guarantee
interference will not occur. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna;
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver;
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected; or
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio technician for help.
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3. SPECIFICATIONS
(Typical unless otherwise specified)
Environmental
Operating Temperature1
-20C to +60C
Storage Temperature
-25C to +60C
Operating Humidity
0 to 100%, non-condensing
Dimensions
11” x 5” x 4”
Weight – with internal battery
6 lbs
Enclosure Protection
IP65
Power
Main AC Connector/ Cable
10 ft. power cable with NEMA 5-15P
plug
AC Input Voltage
85-264 VAC, 47-63 Hz
Current
0.03Aavg, 0.05Apeak @ 120VAC
Internal Battery
6V sealed lead acid
Battery Life
>12 hours
Electrical
Frequency Range
902 – 928 MHz
Receiver Sensitivity2
-94 dBm
RF Transmit Power
+22 dBm
RF input/output
50 ohms nominal (Type N connector)
Voice/Data channels3
1 channel, 250 kbps
Note 1: Ambient temperature. Battery charging may be limited above +50C.
Note 2: Conducted sensitivity measured at BER <2%
Note 3: Supports 2 simultaneous voice calls (TDMA)
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4. DESCRIPTION
Before using the IMN, review the information below:
4.1 INPUTS AND OUTPUTS
The following is an explanation of the IMN inputs and outputs as shown in Figure 1:
CABLE 1: Main AC power input. Ten-foot power cord with North America NEMA 5-15P plug.
SWITCH: Power switch, alternate action pushbutton. Press to turn ON or OFF.
Pushbutton is recessed when unit is ON.
LED1: The green network status LED indicates the status of network communication via a
designated blink pattern (refer to Section 7.0)
LED2: The blue power LED indicates the status of the IMN’s input power and backup battery
via a designated blink pattern (refer to Section 7.0)
ANTENNA 1: 900 MHz antenna port. Type N connector for connection to coaxial cable, antennas, and
RF accessories. Dust cap must be installed if no antenna cable is attached.
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4.2 COMPONENTS NECESSARY FOR INSTALLATION
The IMN installation uses the following components and accessories (refer to Section 6.0 for basic
installation instructions):
Mounting Hardware:
The IMN is supplied with mounting brackets at the four corners. A 0.3” diameter hole in the mounting
bracket allows appropriate screws, hooks, etc. to be used for mounting.
Antenna (900 MHz):
The specific 900 MHz antenna connected to the IMN RF port depends on the location of the IMN. For
below ground, use Yagi directional antenna assembly (IWT p/n: FAA9100-017) or Dipole omni-
directional antenna assembly (IWT p/n: FAA9100-027).
RF Power Splitters, Couplers, Attenuators:
The use of 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way power splitters and other RF accessories depends on the specific IMN
system installation configuration.
ANTENNA 1
LED 2
POWER
LED 1
NETWORK
CABLE 1
POWER
MOUNTING
BRACKET
(4 X)
VENT
SWITCH
POWER
FIGURE 1: IMN CONNECTIONS
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RF Cable:
The RF coaxial cable connecting the antenna port of the IMN to the 900 MHz antenna has Type N
connectors on each end for connection to system equipment.
5. PRIOR TO INSTALLATION
IMPORTANT! TRAINED PERSONNEL MUST PROFESSIONALLY INSTALL THE IMN.
5.1 SITE SURVEY
Conduct a survey to determine the appropriate site(s) to install the IMN from an RF and power
perspective.
5.2 VISUAL INSPECTION
Each IMN must be visually inspected to ensure the following:
The enclosure is free from corrosion and defects.
The enclosure has all connectors installed.
The antenna connector must have the proper dust cap installed when not in use.
Properly secure the enclosure lid with four (4) screws.
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6. BASIC INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS!
CONTENTS OF IMN INCLUDE A NONSPILLABLE SEALED LEAD ACID BATTERY.
DO NOT BLOCK VENT OPENING AT TOP OF ENCLOSURE.
DO NOT OPERATE IMN IN INVERTED POSITION.
AVOID EXPOSURE OF IMN TO HEAT. DO NOT PLACE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO HEAT SOURCE WITHOUT
PROPER VENTILATION.
IMPORTANT NOTE!
THE IMN MUST BE PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED BY TRAINED PERSONNEL.
6.1 Check that all appropriate clearance distances are met with regards to blasting circuits.
Per the IME Safety Library Publication No. 20, the recommended clearance distance is a
minimum 7.1 feet for the IMN.
The IMN must be mounted with the vent at, or near, the highest point of the enclosure. When
wall mounted, the enclosure must be mounted with the vent side up. It must not be mounted
with the vent side down. The IMN may also be mounted on a roof/ceiling with the lid side facing
down.
Failure to observe orientation requirements may permit explosive gases to accumulate within
the battery or the enclosure.
Insure that an appropriate AC receptacle or junction box is located within reach of the IMN's
power cable.
6.2 For applications utilizing external antennas, determine the placements for the 900 MHz
antennas to ensure proper RF propagation. The IMN may be connected to multiple 900 MHz
antennas via RF power splitters connected to the output of the unit. Select locations that
ensure proper RF communication. Antennas should not be placed in any location that presents
a safety hazard or an opportunity to be damaged.
6.3 Locate a place to mount the IMN enclosure and RF power splitter.
Choose the appropriate splitter (2-way, 3-way, or 4-way) for a given IMN antenna configuration.
The IMN and splitter should be installed in a convenient central location in order to minimize
the amount of coaxial cable needed to connect the splitter box to the antennas.
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6.4 Connect the IMN’s 900 MHz output to the splitter and antennas. External antenna (or proper
terminator) must be connected to the IMN prior to applying power to the unit. Failure to
connect antenna before applying power may result in damage to the IMN.
6.5 Connect the IMN to a receptacle or junction box or power supply. Use a receptacle or junction
box appropriate to the degree of waterproofing required. All electrical connections must
comply with applicable electrical codes.
6.6 Press the POWER switch and the power indicator should blink with the ON-CHARGING pattern.
(ON-50%, OFF - 50%). Refer to Section 7 for additional information on the status LEDs.
NOTE: Power button must be ON to charge battery.
6.7 Temporarily disconnect AC power and verify that the power indicator changes to the
ON - BATTERY pattern (ON—10%, OFF—90%). Refer to Section 7 for additional information on
the status LEDs.
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7. OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
7.1 POWER SWITCH
Press the power button to turn ON (pushbutton recessed).
Press the power button to turn OFF (pushbutton not recessed).
7.2 STATUS LEDS
The status of the IMN’s connection to power and the network may be monitored by observing the blink
pattern of the indicator LEDs mounted on the outside of the enclosure:
Green Network LED (LED1):
BLINK IMN is connected to network using the external antenna
DOUBLE BLINK IMN is connected to network using internal patch antenna
OFF No network connectivity
Blue Power LED (LED2):
SOLID ON: During initial power up or when battery is bad or missing
Main AC Power ON
BLINK (ON—50%, OFF—50%): Main AC Power ON / Battery Charging
(Normal use condition)
WINK (ON—10%, OFF—90%): Main AC Power OFF / Battery Discharging
OFF: No Power to IMN
7.3 ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
The IMN requires little routine maintenance. Inspect each box periodically every 3-6 months to ensure
that the box remains free of corrosion and defects. It is important that the box remains dust tight.
Replace defective boxes immediately. Do not continue to use any boxes that may have had their dust
seal compromised.
7.4 DISCONNECTING EXTERNAL ANTENNA
The IMN may be disconnected from power or the external antenna during maintenance or while being
moved to a new location. Turn off power to the IMN using the power switch prior to disconnecting the
external antenna to prevent discharging the internal battery or damaging the internal RF circuits. Place
dust cap on the exposed antenna connector when not in use.
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7.5 BATTERY CARE
To prevent permanent damage to the internal battery, do not store the IMN with the power switch in
the ON position (recessed) or with the battery in a discharged state. When stored for an extended
period of time, apply AC power to the IMN for 24 hours every six months to maintain the battery in a
charged state.
To maintain maximum battery life and performance, a fully discharged battery should be charged as
soon as possible. Batteries left in a fully discharged state for more than one (1) week may experience a
permanent reduction in capacity.
Batteries will experience a reduction in capacity as they age. Batteries may also experience a reduction
in capacity if exposed to elevated temperatures. In order to maintain battery performance and
maximize backup time available for the IMNs, replace batteries according to the expected battery life
chart below:
Average Ambient Temperature Expected IMN Battery Life
+20C 4 years
+30C 2 years
+40C 1 year
7.6 BATTERY REPLACEMENT
To replace the internal battery:
1. Turn OFF the unit’s power switch (pushbutton should not be recessed). Note the power switch
does NOT disconnect AC power from inside the enclosure.
2. Disconnect AC power from the unit by unplugging the power cable.
3. Remove the four screws on the enclosure’s lid. Verify power switch button is NOT recessed
prior to removing enclosure lid.
4. Disconnect the two quick-disconnect fasteners from the battery (see Figure 2).
5. Remove battery from enclosure. Note battery is secured inside the enclosure with a Dual Lock™
fastener.
6. Connect the quick-disconnect fasteners to the battery terminals of the new battery noting
battery polarity. Connect the RED wire to the battery’s positive terminal (marked “+”) and the
BLACK wire to the battery’s negative terminal (marked “-“). Unit may be damaged if terminals
are reversed!
7. Insert the new battery (IWT P/N: FAP9100-015) in the battery compartment by lining up Dual
Lock™ fastener on battery with Dual Lock™ fastener installed in unit (see Figure 3). Positive
terminal of the battery should be facing bottom of enclosure.
8. Place lid on enclosure making sure LEDs align with lenses mounted in lid. Tighten all four lid
screws.
9. Turn the unit power switch ON and confirm the POWER LED (LED2) indicates the unit is
operating on battery power (ON—10%, OFF—90%).
10. Apply AC power to the unit by plugging in power cable and confirm the POWER LED indicates
the battery is charging (ON—50%, OFF—50%).
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FIGURE 2: REPLACING IMN BATTERY
FIGURE 3 REPLACEMENT BATTERY WITH DUAL LOCKTM FASTENER (IWT P/N: FAP9100-015)
QUICK-DISCONNECT
FASTENERS
BATTERY
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8. WARRANTY INFORMATION
Never disassemble the IMN, doing so will void the warranty.
If an IMN is damaged, do not use.