Trio Datacom EB450-XXF01 Remote Radio Data Modem Base/Repeater User Manual temp warning E Series R3

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part E – Getting Started - EH450
Front Panel Operation
Switches
System Port
Select Switch
There are two system port connection points, one on the rear panel
and one on the front panel. Both have the same functionality and can
be used for local diagnostics, firmware front panel downloads and hot
standby controller testing. To access the system port use the
diagnostic/programming cable supplied.
The 3 position switch (1 / Auto / 2) on the front panel provides the
following functionality:
•
Position 1: base station 1 is forced into operation
•
Position Auto: changeover hardware will select the online base
station
•
Position 2: base station 2 is forced into operation
The select switch is also used to identify the target base station for
configuration programming.
Adjacent to the select switch are two LEDs: These LEDs indicate the
current active base station.
Select LED’s
•
•
•
Green - Auto Mode
Red - Remote Force
Amber - Local Force
2 Green Firmware Download
2 Amber Test Mode
2 Red Fatal Error - refer user manual
Reset Switch
This is a momentary close switch which when depressed will reset all
LED alarm indications.
Note: Wnen connection is made to front panel system rear system
port is disabled.
Alarm Status LEDs
There are 10 alarm LEDs on the fron panel, five for base 1 and five for
base 2. These LEDs provide a general indication of base station
status. More detailed base station status information is available by
using the diagnostic utility software.
The indicated alarms for each base station are:
Freq.
=>
Frequency Error
RxSig
=>
Receive Signal (RF) Error
Data
=>
Receive Data Error
TxPower
=>
Transmit Power (RF) Error
Supply
=>
DC Voltage Error
The status of each alarm is represented as follows:
Green
=>
No Error
Red
=>
Current (active) Error condition
Amber
=>
Recovered Error condition
Any active or recovered error LEDs will turn to green after the reset
alarms switch has been pushed or remotely reset.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Page 35
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part F – Operational Features
Part F - Operational Features
Multistream functionality (SID
codes)
The E Series sends data messages in packets. A feature of the E
Series is that an address can be embedded in each packet. This
address is called the stream identifier code (SID).
By configuring a user serial port for a specific SID code, it is
possible to steer messages to similarly configured ports between
radio modems. In effect, it is possible to use the multiple serial
ports available on the E Series, to enable multiple protocols to
share the same RF channel. The SID codes also facilitate the use
of other features such as TView diagnostics. Unique selective
routing, repeating, and data splitting functions available in the radio
modems configuration allow data steering and bandwidth
management in complex systems.
See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmer and Part J TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller for details.
Collision Avoidance (digital and
RFCD based)
Where multiple “un synchronised” protocols co-exist on a common
“multiple access” radio channel, there is always a possibility that
both “hosts” may poll different “remote” devices at the same time. If
both devices attempt to answer back to the single master radio at
the same time, it follows that a collision could occur on the radio
channel.
RF Carrier Detect RSSI based Collision
Avoidance
In half duplex systems, the receiver’s RF carrier detect is used to
inhibit the transmitter whilst a signal is being received.
Digipeater Operation
A feature of the E Series radio modems is the ability to internally
repeat data packets to provide stand alone repeater facilities
without the need for external intelligence.
This is done by programming “SID Codes” to “Repeat” a stream or
range of streams. Wizard templates can be used to simplify setup
of this and other features.
See Part I - TVIEW+ Management Suite for details.
TVIEW+ Diagnostics
The E Series has an inbuilt remote configuration and diagnostics
utility.
This facility allows transparent remote access to the key
configuration and operating parameters of the radio.
See Part J - TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller for
details.
To facilitate the operation of multiple protocol operation on the
radio channel, a transparent collision management system has been
implemented : See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmer
for details.
Digital Collision Avoidance System
If the “multiple access master” has been configured for full duplex
operation, it is possible to use the inbuilt collision avoidance signaling
system.
Once the master radio receives a valid incoming data stream from a
remote, a flag within the “outbound” data stream is used to alert all
other remote devices that the channel has become busy. Remote
devices wishing to send data will buffer the message until the channel
status flag indicates that the channel is clear. A pseudo-random timing
value is added to the retry facility to ensure that waiting remotes do not
retry at the same time.
Page 36
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part G – Commissioning
Part G – Commissioning
Check DC power connector for correct voltage (10-16VDC) and
polarity, BEFORE plugging in the power connector.
Power-up
Upon power up, the radio will self test and shortly after the green
power LED will be displayed.
Antenna Alignment and RSSI
Testing
Once the RXSIG LED is lit, it is possible to confirm RX signal strength
and align a directional antenna by monitoring the RSSI output.
This DC voltage appears at Pin 9 of Port B.
Failure of the power LED to light indicates no power, or failure of
the fuse due to incorrect polarity or over-voltage.
A ground reference can be obtained from chassis ground or Pin 5 of
Port A or B.
Other failure such as fatal internal errors will initiate error modes
indicated by a flashing sequence of all LEDS red, followed by one
or more green LED’s to indicate the nature of the failure (see Part E
– Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs).
The chart below shows Pin 9 voltage as it relates to signal strength.
Will depend on the system architecture. If the device is a remote site
receiving a base station with a constant carrier, then the RXSIG/
SYNC LED should be green to indicate healthy reception of the
wanted signal.
4.5
RSSI (DC Volts)
LED Indicators
Analog RSSI Output Characteristics - E Series Data Radio
Data flow to and from the user ports is indicated by the TXD/RXD
LEDs for each port.
(See Part E – Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs.)
Data Transfer Indications
Bi-colour LEDs are provided to indicate RS232 data being
transmitted and received on each data port. A RED flash indicates
a byte (or bytes) of incoming data from the serial line which will be
transmitted to air, and a green flash indicates a byte of data
received “off air” being released onto the serial line.
If data is being sent to the radio modem and the Data LED does
not flash RED, this may indicate a wiring or configuration problem.
Check that the TX and RX data lines are correctly wired (see Part E
– Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs).
Also check that character set and parity settings (i.e. N,8,1 etc) are
set identically at the terminal and the radio modem. Note that some
incorrect settings of the character set parameter can still produce
transmittable data, even though the data will not be understood by
the application.
2.5
1.5
0.5
If the site has been configured as a constantly transmitting base station,
then the PWR/TX LED should show red.
In other types of systems, TX and RX bursts would be indicated by
the RX or TX LED’s as above.
3.5
-120
-110
-100
-90
-80
-70
-60
-50
-40
RF Level (dBm)
Link Establishment and BER
Testing
Once communications has been established, it is possible to confirm
the packet error rate performance of the radio path, and thus estimate
the BER figure.
There are a number of tools provided to do this. The easiest is to use
the “indicative packet error test” provided within the TVIEW+
Diagnostics under “statistical performance tools”. Alternatively, it is
possible to use hyper terminal, or other packet test instruments or
PC programs to run end to end or perform “loopback” testing.
Please note that when using a “loopback plug” some understanding of
the packetising process is necessary, since each “test message’ must
be carried in a single packet for meaningful results to be obtained.
Note also that in PTMP systems, allowance must be made for
collision potential if other data is being exchanged on the system.
VSWR Testing
VSWR testing is achieved using specialized VSWR testing
equipment, or a “Thruline” power meter that measures forward and
reverse power.
VSWR is the ratio between forward and reflected transmitter
power, and indicates the health and tuning of the antenna and
feeder system.
VSWR should be better than 3 to 1, or expressed as a power ratio,
<6dB or no more than 25%. To activate the radios transmiter for
VSWR testing, use:
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
a)
An RTS loop
b)
A system port PTT plug
Page 37
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part H – Maintenance
Part H – Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
Considerations
The E Series hardware itself does not require routine maintenance.
However all radio products contain crystal frequency references,
and the stability of these crystals changes with time. The effect of
this is that the product will slowly drift off frequency, and eventually
it will require re-calibration. E Series radios are designed with high
quality, low drift specification references, to ensure a long
maintenance free lifespan. The length of this lifespan will depend
on the severity of temperature extremes in the operating
environment, but is normally 3–5 years. Extended frequency drift
can be detected using TVIEW+ Diagnostics “Freq error” parameter.
Generally, recalibration is achieved by replacing the radio in the
field with a spare, and returning the radio to a service centre for recalibration and specification testing at moderate cost.
Routine maintenance should be performed on external equipment
subject to greater environmental stresses including antennas, RF
feeder cables, backup batteries and cooling fans (if required). This
maintenance should include testing of site commissioning figures
such as received signal strength, VSWR, P/S voltage etc.
Page 38
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
SECTION 2 – TVIEW+ Management Suite
SECTION 2
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite Programmer
Part J – TVIEW Remote Diagnostics and
Network Controller
Part K – Appendices
Part L - Support Options
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Page 39
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite Programmer
Introduction
Installation
This manual covers the installation and operation of the E Series
TVIEW+ Management Suite which incorporates 3 utilities:
Unit Connection
•
Programmer for configuration of the radio RF parameters,
system parameters and data ports
Programmer and Diagnostics Utilities
•
Diagnostics* for real-time monitoring and logging of radio
performance parameters
•
Firmware Update for loading new firmware releases into the
radio data modem
All utilities can be run on any IBM compatible computer running
Windows 95® and above. This section describes use of the
programmer and firmware Update utilities in detail. Users should refer
to the separate Diagnostics section for information about this utility.
The programmer is used to set configuration parameters within the
ER450 data radio modem and EB450 base station. The utility permits
configuration of modems connected directly to the PC as well as over
the air to a remote unit. Configuration parameters can be saved to a
disk file for later retrieval, or used for clone programming of other
modems.
All configuration parameters are held in non-volatile memory
(NVRAM) on the Data Radio Modem. Configuration is fully
programmable via the Systems Port using the programming adaptor
and cable supplied. Disassembly of the unit is not required for any
reason other than for servicing.
The diagnostics utility permits monitoring and logging of radio
performance parameters for both E Series* as well as D Series* data
radio modems and base stations. It supports homogeneous systems
of radios as well as mixed systems of both E and D series radios.
The firmware update utility permits field upgrade of the firmware in an
ER450 data radio modem, EB450 base station and EH450 hot
standby unit connected directly to the PC. A special serial adaptor
cable is required to be connected to Port B to load firmware into the
unit.
* Requires the optional DIAGS Network Management and Remote
Diagnostic Facility to be installed - per radio.
Page 40
The unit is connected to the PC using the supplied DB9-RJ45 adaptor
cable (part no. TVIEW+ Cable) for local configuration changes or
diagnostic monitoring. The cable should be connected to the RJ45
System Port of the unit and a valid PC serial port (eg; COM 1) DB9
connector.
(See Part E - Getting Started: Communications Ports)
Firmware Update Utility
The unit to be updated with firmware connects to the PC using the
DB9-DB9 adaptor (part no. DRPROG). The cable should be
connected to the DB9 Port B connector on the unit and a valid PC
serial port (See Appendix C for details) DB9 connector.
Software
Please take a moment to read this important information before you
install the software.
The installation of this Software Suite is a 2 step process.
Step 1 completes the typical installation of the TVIEW+ Management
Suite and will install the Programming Software together with the E
Series Documentation.
Step 2 installs the Diagnostic Software and is optional. This step is
only required if your radios have Remote Diagnostics enabled.
STEP 1: Installation - TVIEW+ Management
Suite
Note: If a previous version of the TVIEW+ Management Suite has
been installed on your PC, you must uninstall it via Control Panel
“Add/Remove Programs”.
•
Close down all other programs currently running.
•
Place the CD-ROM in the drive on the PC.
•
Using Windows Explorer locate the files on the CD-ROM.
•
In Windows Explorer double click on the file called
TVIEW+_(Version#)_install.exe
•
After the installer starts follow directions.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
STEP 2: Installation - TView Diagnostic
Software (Optional)
Note: If a previous version of the “TView WinDiags” software has
been installed on your PC, you must uninstall it via Control Panel
“Add/Remove Programs”.
•
Close down all other programs currently running.
•
Place the CD-ROM in the drive on the PC.
•
Using Windows Explorer open the “Diagnostics” directory on
the CR-ROM.
•
Double click on the file called setup.exe
•
After the installer starts follow directions.
Other:
The current E Series Manuals are supplied and installed as part of the
TVIEW+ Management Suite installation in Adobe Acrobat format.
Adobe Acrobat Reader is provided on the CD-ROM for installation if
required.
TVIEW+ Front Panel
When started the TVIEW+ front panel appears. The larger buttons
permit each of the three utilities to be started. The diagnostics button
may be greyed out if this utility has not been installed or found in the
correct file directory. Access to local help and an exit facility are
provided by the remaining 2 buttons.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Programmer
Main Window
When first started the programmer is in file mode as indicated by the
mode field at the bottom right of the panel shown below. In this mode it
is possible to open a previously saved configuration file, or configure
various programming options and save the configuration to a file.
Note: Modulation type is not available in this mode.
To commence programming a unit (radio remote or base station) a
session must first be established by using the “READ” function. This
function reads the current configuration from the unit and displays it in
the main window. The “mode” displays changes to local or remote
depending on the type of session selected at the read function. Several
options in the main window may be blanked out until a session has
been established with a unit.
Note: Changing any item on the menu will in general not take effect
until data is written back to the unit using the “WRITE” function.
The procedure to follow for normal programming of unit is:
•
Read unit
•
Configure parameters (or Open a previously saved
configuration file)
•
Write unit
Several modems of the same radio type can be programmed with the
same configuration using the clone facility described in Clone Mode. It
is important to note that when using this facility the cloned radio should
be of the same type to ensure it does not operate outside its capability.
Page 41
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Pull Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons
Exit (also available on the toolbar)
The items on the pull-down menus can be selected either directly with
a mouse or using the ALT key in combination with a HOT KEY (eg
ALT-F to select the file menu). Several of the functions within each
menu are also available on the toolbar (click once to select).
This function terminates the program. The user is requested to confirm
this selection before exiting the application.
Modem Menu
The file menu allows the user to load (open) or save configuration data
as well as to quit the program. The files are saved with an “.cfg” file
extension
This radio menu allows configuration data to be read
from and written to the unit (remote radio or base
station) using the selected PC serial port connection
(see Settings menu). The action of reading the
configuration establishes a session with the unit.
Communications is maintained with the unit to ensure
that the session remains open. If the session has been lost due to data
transmission errors or disconnection of the programming cable it will
need to be re-established to ensure any updated configuration is written
successfully to the unit.
Open (also available on the toolbar)
Read (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to load an existing configuration file that can be
used to directly program the radio or to use as a starting point to edit
configuration parameters. Note that a session must be established
with the unit by initially reading the configuration parameters from the
unit prior to being written to a unit.
This function establishes a session with the unit, reads configuration
data from the unit and displays it in the programmer main window.
When selected a dialogue window appears prompting the user to
choose whether the unit to read is local (connected directly to the serial
port or remote (connected over the air to the unit connected to serial
port). Unit no. (serial no.) musty be entered and the stream SID code
is “on” (default =0)). After configuration data is read from the unit it is
available for editing and writing back to the unit or saving to a file. The
progress of data transfer to or from the unit is indicated by a message
window as well as a rotating indicator in the bottom right hand corner
of the main window.
File Menu
If in file mode the modulation type will not be displayed. If in local/
remote mode and a file that was saved from local/remote mode is
opened, then modulation type will be imported and used, but only if it
is valid for the connected hardware. If not then the units read
modulation type will be used.
Save (also available on the toolbar)
This function is used to save the current configuration parameters to a
file for future recall.
If in “file mode” only basic RF, Port and System parameters are
saved and re called. If in local/remote mode then modulation type is
saved and re called.
Print (also available on the toolbar)
This function prints out the configuration data to the default printer in a
standard format. There are no options for this item.
This should be used if a complete record is required for site/unit
configuration. Firmware/Modulation/Diags/Hardware type are all
printed.
Page 42
Write (also available on the toolbar)
This function writes configuration data displayed in the main window to
the unit and reboots the unit. When selected a dialogue window
appears prompting the user to confirm whether to proceed. A progress
indicator in the bottom right hand corner of the main window is
displayed while data is being read. This selection is only available if a
session has been previously established and maintained with the unit.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
This dialog provides a facility for reversing any remote configuration
changes and reverting to the previous configuration.
Select “No” to send a command to the unit to accept the new
configuration changes and to close the session. Select “Yes” to send a
command to the unit to cancel the new configuration changes and to
close the session.
The configuration settings will revert to their previous values if the data
communications circuit with the unit has been interrupted after the new
changes have been made, but before they have been verified, as just
described, then the unit will automatically discard the new changes. A
“Timeout Error” message will appearin the event of such an
interruption and the programmer will revert back to file mode.
After configuration data has been written the session with the unit is
closed and the programmer goes back to file mode
NOTE: In general any change made on the programmer screen must
be written to the unit using this function before it becomes permanently
stored. Changes to Power Adjust, Mute Adjust and Tx/Rx Trim
however do take immediate effect to permit a tuning capability prior to
being permanent stored.
Cancel Session (also available on the toolbar)
This function closes the session with unit and puts the programmer
back into file mode. All configuration changes are discarded including
changes to Power Adjust, Mute Adjust and Tx/Rx Trim.
Wizard (also available on toolbar)
This function permits the user to select standard configurations after the
configuration from a unit has been read or a file opened. The user is
prompted via a series of dialogue windows to select the desired
configuration that can then be written to the unit (remote radio or base
station).
Clone Mode
This function permits writing of the same configuration data to several
units. This feature is normally used for configuring data radio modems
connected locally. The procedure is:
•
Read the configuration from the first unit
•
Configure the parameters (or Open a previously saved
configuration file)
•
Select Clone Mode (Modem menu)
•
Write the configuration to the first unit
•
The changes will take effect when repowered
•
Connect the next unit
•
Write the next unit which establishes a session and recognises
the unit serial number and type, and then configures the unit
•
Repower the unit for changes to take effect
•
Repeat the last 3 steps for the remaining units.
Settings
This menu permits selection of the PC serial port (COM1 to COM4)
to be used for communications with the unit. COM1 is the default
selection and if a different port is to be used it must be set before
establishing a session by reading the configuration from a unit. Whilst
a session is established with a unit this menu can not be accessed.
Help
This menu permits selection of help information using the Contents
key. Warnings regarding use of the programmer software using the
Warnings key and version detail using the About key.
Port A and Port B Configuration
Data from these two user ports is multiplexed for transmission over the
air. Each port can be configured separately for the Character layer
(Data speed, number of data bits, number of stop bits, parity), Packet
layer and Handshaking (flow control). Port B must be enabled if
required by setting the check box at the top of its configuration section.
if Port B is off, the 16K memory is split equally between Port A Rx/Tx
buffers (ie: 8K & 8 K). If Port B is on, then the 16K is split equally
across Port A & B Rx/Tx buffers (ie: 4K, 4K, 4K & 4K).
The following description is common to both ports.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Page 43
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Character Layer
There are two standard formats and a custom format that can be
selected by checking the appropriate control button to the left of the
description. The standard formats are:
•
9600,N,8,1 (data speed = 9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1
stop bit)
•
4800,N,8,1 (data speed = 4800 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1
stop bit)
A non-standard format can be selected via the Custom button that
displays a dialogue box to permit selection of data speed, parity,
number of data bits and stop bits. Once selected the OK button should
be used to complete the selection. The custom selection is also
displayed in the main window below the Custom button.
For example a constant stream of 300 baud user data placed onto a
9600 baud channel will result in 1 character per frame being
transmitted. If the user baud rate was lifted to 9600,N,8,1 with a
continuous data stream, then the frame size would settle to about 16
characters plus 32 overhead bits. If collision avoidance is enabled as
master the average frame size will increase to 32 characters plus
overhead bits.
The number of data bits associated with the user data stream will also
have an effect on the average size of a frame. For instance the
number of stop bits, and number of data bits per character.
The system designer must choose the best compromise of all the
above items to ensure the most efficient method of data transmission.
Note: The first character is always packetized and sent by itself
regardless of all the above variables.
Modbus
This selection configures the PAD driver with options automatically set
to implement the MODBUS protocol. eg: 5 mSec timer.
Custom
Other configurations of the PAD driver can be selected via the Custom
button which displays a dialogue box to permit selection of several
configuration options as follows:
SLIP / DIAGNOSTICS
Packet Layer
There are two standard configurations and a custom configuration
which can be selected by checking the appropriate control button to the
left of the description. There are essentially two basic modes of
operation for the packet assembler and disassembler (PAD). The first
is where the PAD operates in a standard mode with data received at
the port being immediately sent over the radio channel. The second is
a store and forward or delayed mode where whole data packets are
received from the port before being sent over the radio channel. In both
cases data is sent over the radio channel in variable length frames and
delineation of these frames is dependent on the configuration selected
as well as the characteristics of the data stream received at the data
port.
The packet layer configuration options which can be selected are:
Standard (live framing)
With standard live framing data received from the host by the modem
is immediately placed into a frame and transferred onto the radio
channel. This avoids placing “store and forward” delays in the data
transmission.
If a stream of characters is received by the modem, then several
characters at a time may be placed into the same frame. The number
of characters in the frame depends mainly on the respective baud
rates of the user port and the primary channel baud rate of the modem,
as well as the level of overheads experienced on the radio channel
and the user data stream.
SLIP is a well known protocol for transferring binary data
packets over a data link. Each data packet is delineated by
 characters, and a substitution mechanism exists that
allows these characters to be included in the data packet.
Appendix B describes the SLIP protocol which is used
extensively in UNIX(tm) based systems, and is closely
associated with TCP/IP networks.
The diagnostics controller package uses the SLIP protocol to
communicate between base station and remote modems.
DNP-3 / IEC870
This selection configures the PAD driver to implement the DNP-3
Protocol and IEC870 Protocol.
Pull Down Menu Selection
The PAD driver can be configured for a number of vendor
specific protocols by selecting the desired option.
Page 44
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Custom Format
This selection permits PAD driver to be configured in a variety of
ways and requires a greater understanding of the system design.
For the modem to successfully transmit its packets (or frames) of
data over the radio channel, it must be told on what basis to
delineate data packets received at the data port. Once the end of
a data packet has been received at the port the data frame is
closed and transmission over the radio channel commences.
Delineation of data packets can be configured to occur via any
combination of:
• A predefined minimum time delay between packets received
at the port. Typically the time delay would reflect the absence
of a couple of characters in the data stream at the specified
user port baud rate.
Handshaking
If the standard PAD is selected (i.e. any settings apart from SLIP/
Diagnostics), then flow control can be either hardware handshaking,
XON/XOFF protocol or none.
The XON/XOFF flow control is not possible when using either the
SLIP/Diagnostics protocol.
The Handshaking section of the screen allows the selection of either of
the handshaking methods as well as allowing handshaking to be
disabled.
Details of the two handshaking methods are given below.
Hardware
The modem acts as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) and
supplies to the host controller the following interface signals:
• Limiting the maximum number of characters which can be put
in the data frame sent over the radio channel.
• Receipt of a selected end of message (EOM) character at the
port. An ASCII carriage return (character 13) is often used for
this purpose.
As each data frame to be transmitted over the radio channel has
overhead data consisting of checksums and SID codes. The
system designer must determine the best compromise between
the ratio of overhead versus user data which depends on packet
size and user data packet transmission latency.
The fields which can be configured are:
Data Set Ready
Data Carrier Detect (DCD)
Clear To Send
Receive Data Output (RXD)
(CTS)
The host controller must act as Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and
supplies to the modem the following interface signals :
Data Terminal Ready (DTR)
Request To Send
Transmit Data Input (TXD)
•
(RTS)
DCD
DCD has several modes of operation. It is set to TRUE when
data is being transferred from the modem to the host - RXD line
active. The signal is asserted approximately 500ms before the
start bit of the first character in the data stream and remains for
approximately 1 character after the last bit in the data stream. The
other modes of operation are dependent on the advanced
settings.
• Character Input timer: Set the input timer value in ms or enter
zero to disable. Range 0 - 255.
• Maximum Frame Size: Set the maximum number of
characters or enter zero to disable. Range 0 - 4095.
• EOM Character: Select the check box to the left of the
description to enable and enter the EOM character as a
decimal value. Range 0 - 255.
(DSR)
•
DSR
DSR is permanently set to TRUE.
•
CTS
The CTS is a signal from the modem to the host informing the
host that the modem is able to accept incoming data on the TXD
line. It responds to the actions of the RTS line similar to the
operation of a “standard” line modem.
The CTS is FALSE if the RTS line is FALSE. Once the RTS line
is set to TRUE (signalling that the host wants to send some data
to the modem on the TXD line), then the CTS will be set TRUE
within 1ms, if the modem is capable of accepting more data.
The CTS line will be set to FALSE if the transmit buffer in the
modem exceeds 4075 bytes, or the number of queued frames
exceeds 29 to ensure that no overflow condition can occur.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
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•
RTS
The RTS line is used for two reasons. The first is to assert the
CTS line in response to RTS. The RTS line can also be used to
key up the transmitter stage of the modem.
•
RF Parameters
This section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter and
receiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim and
advanced features.
DTR
The DTR line is used for flow control of data being sent from the
modem to the host controller. When the host is able to accept
data it sets this line to TRUE, and if data is available within the
modem, it will be sent to the host. If the host cannot accept any
more data, then it sets the DTR to FALSE, and the modem will
stop all transmissions to the host.
•
Xon/Xoff
If the flow control mechanism is XON/XOFF then the modem
uses the standard ASCII control codes of DC1
{^Q=11(Hex)=17(Dec)} for XON and DC3
{^S=13(Hex)=19(Dec)} for XOFF. The DTR input line is totally
ignored.
NOTE: There is no substitution mechanism employed in the
XON/XOFF protocol, so care must be taken when transferring
binary data to ensure that invalid flow control characters are not
generated.
Advanced
This button provides access to the advanced features of the port
configuration. When selected a dialogue box appears which permits
selection of the source for the port DCD output signal.
Transmitter
The transmitter can be configured for transmit frequency and power
level.
Frequency
The required transmit frequency in MHz can be entered in the display
field. The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in the
range for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.
Power Adjust
The currently selected transmit power is displayed below the button in
dBm. The power level can be adjusted by selecting this button which
displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or a typed in value, can
be used to select the required power level in dBm steps. There are
two methods for setting the power.
Disabled
This selection disables the DCD output on the port. This selection is
not permissible if hardware based flow control has been selected.
RF Carrier Detect
This selection causes DCD to be asserted at the onset of a received
RF signal being detected. This will generally occur several
milliseconds before data is transmitted from the port.
Data Detect (RS485 Flow Control)
This selection causes DCD to be asserted when data is about to be
transmitted from the port. This option is not available if handshaking is
set to “None” or “Xon/Xoff”.
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•
Using Factory Calibration
To use the factory calibration of the radio the desired power is set
immediately using the OK button in the dialogue box. This
method permits the transmit power to be set without energising
the transmitter. Note that although the transmit power has been
adjusted it must be written to NVRAM using the modem “Write”
function to ensure it is retained after a power on reset.
•
Using a Power Meter
To overcome manufacturing variations in the power setting a
more accurate setting of power can be achieved by the selecting
the “Test With Meter” button in the dialogue box. This displays
another dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter is about
to be energised and that the power meter used should be able to
handle at least 10 Watts from the modem.
Selecting OK in this warning dialogue box will energise the
transmitter which will also be indicated by the red transmit LED
on the unit. The power is adjusted using the up/down keys until
the required power level is obtained. Selecting OK will retain the
power setting and turn the transmitter off. Note that although the
transmit power has been adjusted it must be written to NVRAM
using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after the
modem is rebooted.
Selecting “stop test” will stop and leave you in power adjust
box. “Cancel” will stop test and take you back to the main
window.
Whilst the modem is capable of receiving extremely weak radio
signals, and successfully extracting the data content from the
waveforms the mute level should be set to assist the modem in
filtering out unwanted signals. Unwanted signals can be the result of
background noise or interference. The mute level should be set at a
level above these unwanted signals and at a level low enough to
detect the wanted signal. Detection of a received signal above the
mute level is indicated by the “RxSig” LED on the unit.
Setting of a correct mute level at a base station is critical if collision
avoidance is operational in a point to multipoint system. In this situation
detection of “noise” instead of a valid transmission from the remote
modems will effectively “lock out” all of the remote units from
accessing and using the channel.
Due to normal manufacturing variations the actual mute level may
vary by several dBm to that selected. If a more accurate adjustment
is required an unmodulated signal of the correct frequency and desired
threshold level can be applied to the radio modem’s antenna connector.
Modulation
The radio modem utilises a DSP to control the modulation of transmit
signals and de-modulation of received signals. This provides greater
flexibility in the ability of the radio modem to support new modulation
schemes whilst maintaining compatibility with existing modulation
schemes.
The receiver can be configured for receive frequency and mute level.
The currently selected modulation scheme is displayed in the main
window below the select button. The modulation scheme can be
adjusted by selecting this button which displays a dialogue box. The
desired modulation scheme can then be selected from the pull-down
menu in the dialogue box and retained using the OK button.
Frequency
In the case of 12.5kHz channel radio modems the presently supported
Receiver
The required receive frequency in MHz can be entered in the display
field. The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in the
range for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.
Mute Adjust
The currently selected mute level is displayed in the main window
below the button in dBm. The mute level can be adjusted by selecting
this button which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or a
typed in value, can be used to select the required mute level in dBm
steps. Whilst a session is in progress with a unit the mute level
adjustment is live. Selecting OK will retain the mute level setting. Note
that although the mute level has been adjusted it must be written to
NVRAM using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after
the modem is rebooted.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
modulation schemes include:
•
9600 12.5kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 9600bps
modulation scheme available in E Series products which
supports a significantly reduced delay between detection of a
valid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data.
•
4800 12.5kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 4800bps
modulation scheme used in the D Series products to provide
backward compatibility.
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In the case of 25kHz channel radio modems the presently supported
modulation schemes include:
•
19200 25kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 19200bps
modulation scheme available in E-Series products which
supports a significantly reduced delay between detection of a
valid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data.
•
9600 25kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 9600bps
modulation scheme used in the D Series products to provide
backward compatibility.
Tx/Rx (Frequency) Trim
The currently selected frequency trim, which is common to both
transmitter and receiver, is displayed in the main window below the
button in Hz. The frequency trim can be adjusted live by selecting this
button which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys can be used
to select the required frequency offset in steps pre-determined by the
radio modem. Selecting OK will retain the frequency trim setting. Note
that although the frequency trim has been adjusted it must be written to
NVRAM using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after
the modem is rebooted.
In the case of full duplex units the receiver is always active and is not
interrupted by transmissions from the unit as would be the case for half
duplex units. In this situation it is not necessary, or desirable in the
case of a base station, for the recovered data clock alignment to be
remembered between bursts of received signals. In this situation the
“Receiver Full Duplex” check box to the left should be selected.
NOTE: For half duplex units the “Receiver Full Duplex” check box
should not be set.
System Parameters
This section of the main window configures the PTT control, collision
avoidance, stream setup for routing of data, advanced features and
provides unit information.
PTT (Press To Talk) Control
RF transmission can be configured to occur permanently,
automatically on data received at Port A or Port B, or RTS being
asserted on Port A or Port B. A PTT timeout facility can be configured
to limit the period for which the transmitter is enabled. Each option is
selected by setting the control to the left of the description on the main
window. When PTT is active the “Tx” LED on the unit is illuminated
and RF power is being fed to the antenna.
Permanent Tx
This will cause the transmitter to be permanently enabled (keyed) and
displays another dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter will
be energised immediately after the configuration is written to the unit.
Selecting OK confirms this setting. The other PTT selections are
disabled when this option is selected.
NOTE: This option is only available for half duplex units when being
programmed locally.
Auto On Data
This facility permits correction for drifts in the frequency reference
caused by component ageing. For example, a standard crystal may
vary in fundamental frequency operation over 1 year by one part per
million. An adjustment range of ± 10ppm, displayed in Hz, has been
allowed for and if this is insufficient the unit should be returned to the
dealer/factory for re-calibration.
Advanced
This button permits setting of advanced features. When selected a
dialogue box appears which permits configuration of the type of
received data clock alignment method.
This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) automatically on
data received at Port A or Port B and included in a complete frame for
transmission over the radio channel. The maximum period for which
the transmitter will be enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting.
From Port A RTS
This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port A RTS
being asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will be
enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which rely
on establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require this
method of activation.
From Port B RTS
This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port B RTS
being asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will be
enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which rely
on establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require this
method of activation.
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E Series Data Radio – User Manual
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PTT Timeout
User Port
The PTT timeout facility is used to disable the transmitter if it exceeds
the designated time. The timeout value can range from 1 to 255
seconds and the facility is disabled by setting a zero value.
This option is selected by clicking on the User Port button and filling in
the RXSID and TXSID fields to the right.
In the User Port mode (Referred to in the previous programmer as
MUX/DEMUX mode) all SID code operations are performed
transparently to the user. Data placed into a user port which has been
assigned a specified SID code, will only be received by a modem at
the other end of the radio link that has a user port assigned with the
same SID code.
The timeout value chosen for this should be set according to system
requirements which may include:
•
Prevention of a remote unit remaining keyed up and locking out
all other remote units in a point to multipoint system.
•
Limiting the period a remote unit remains keyed up to prevent
battery drain in a low power application.
In this way, Port “A” and Port “B” can be assigned different SID
codes, thereby separating the data streams.
NOTE: If a PTT timeout occurs before completion of a data
transmission data will be lost.
Two SID codes values are available for each user port RXSID and
TXSID. The RXSID codes apply to the data being received by the
modem, and the TXSID codes apply to the data being transmitted by
the modem. This allows for different transmit and receive codes if
required, but generally they would be both the same.
Stream Setup
This button brings up a dialogue box to permit editing of Stream
IDentifier (SID) codes which are used by the modem as the
addressing mechanism for data stream routing. A SID code can be
placed at the start of each data frame as it is sent over the radio
channel. The receiving modems use this code to determine how to
route the data message. The modem supports simultaneous operation
of both Port “A” and Port “B” over the one radio link, along with the
inclusion of a diagnostics data stream.
A situation where Tx and Rx SID codes may be different is in a
repeater configuration. In this type of application all data messages
sent to the repeater will be “repeated”. Thus by having different Tx
and Rx codes a control unit will not “hear” its own transmission and
remotes will not hear the reply from any other remote.
If the diagnostics facility is installed in the modem, then it too has a pair
SID codes. The diagnostics data simply uses a different data stream
or streams to the user data, but is processed internally by the modem.
If access to the diagnostics facility is required, similar to when the
diagnostics utility is used with the modem, then the data port
concerned and the diagnostics stream, must have the same SID
codes assigned to them. Alternatively the System port can be used,
which is 19.2K, Slip.
Each port is independant and fully supports one of four options which
can be chosen as described below. Note that the port B parameters
are greyed out when port B is not enabled.
The following diagram illustrates the structure of the stream routing
function for each data port.
(Previously TXSID was referred to as SIDA2 or SIDB2 and RXSID
was referred to as SIDA1 or SIDB1 for ports A and B respectively).
Trunk Streams
In the Trunk Streams mode, data that is inputted into the modem for
transmission must have a SID code appended to the start of the data
packet by the user. The modem does not do it as in the User Port
mode of operation. When a data packet is received by the modem, it
is passed through a SID code filter which is bounded by a lower and
upper limit of SID codes. The SID code is not stripped off from the
user data.
For instance the lower bound is 03 and the upper bound is 07. If a
message is received with a SID code of 02 appended it would not be
passed to the user. If a message is received with a SID code of 04
then it is passed to the user, with 04 at the start of the frame.
The SID codes can range from 0 to 255, and physically consist of the
byte value of the code i.e. a code of 156 is equivalent to “10011100”
binary.
Stream Router
Repeat,Translate
Port Data In
Rx Data In
SID Adder/
Translator
SID
Filter
Tx Data Out
Port Data Out
User,Trunk
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
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To select the Trunk Streams option click on the Trunk Streams button
of the port to be used and fill in the fields to the right. The “From” field
is for the lower SID code limit and the “To” field for the upper SID code
limit.
NOTE: When using Trunk Streams an unambiguous packet
delineation scheme (eg. SLIP) should be used so that the SID code in
the user data can be decoded correctly.
Advanced
This button permits setting of advanced system parameter features.
This presently includes enabling the diagnostics facility within the unit.
Once enabled the diagnostics utility can be used to monitor the
performance of the unit.
Repeat Streams
The modem is capable of operating in a repeater mode. Each user
port can be configured as a separate repeater. The associated user
ports are effectively disconnected from the “outside world” when in
repeater mode. Data received from the radio channel is passed
directly to the transmitter, and placed back onto the radio channel.
The repeater must receive a complete frame of data before it is
retransmitted. In some systems this store and forward delay may be
significant, and careful selection of maximum frame sizes configured at
the source unit must be considered to minimise the delay.
To enable the mode for the port click the Repeat Streams button and
select the range of SID codes on frames to be repeated.
Translate Streams
This is essentially a hybrid of the User Port and Repeat Streams
functions available on a port. Whereas the latter repeats a range of
streams, this function instead translates one stream to another, by
demultiplexing one stream (defined by Rx SID), and re-transmitting it
with a new stream address (defined by Tx SID).
NOTE: Data is not presented to the user ports.
Diagnostics Processor
The Diagnostics Processor uses several streams defined by the range
of SID codes. The diagnostics commands received on each stream
are sent back over the same stream. The Diagnostics Processor is an
option which must be enabled before this section of the menu will
become active.
Diagnostics Repeat
This option can be toggled on and off simply by clicking the
button.
Some applications will require that the master unit in a point to
multipoint system to repeat diagnostics frames only (i.e. the
master modem is not set up as a repeater).
The Enable Diagnostics button should be selected and the 8 character
diagnostics key code entered prior to selecting OK. If the key code is
accepted or has been previously entered the Enable Diagnostics
button will be greyed out. Contact your supplier for Key Code
purchase.
Collision Avoidance
In a point to multipoint system the master unit (usually a base station)
can transmit at any time and the remotes will all receive the broadcast
signal. However, if more than one remote unit transmits at a time,
then a collision will occur during the multiple transmissions, resulting in
a loss of data from one or more units.
Two collision avoidance mechanisms have been included in the
modem. The standard (Digital) method utilises a signalling channel
which is embedded in overhead data transmitted over the radio
channel. The second method utilises detection of a carrier signal to
postpone transmission of data. Both methods require configuration of
several options for successful operation.
The desired option for collision avoidance is selected by checking the
control button to the left of the description on the main window.
None
When selected this turns off all collision avoidance mechanisms. This
should only be used in point to point applications.
Digital
This is the standard method of collision avoidance and utilises a
channel busy indication bit in the signalling channel transmitted to all
remotes for control. When selected a dialogue box appears and
several options must be configured:
This will be the case when the system diagnostics controller is
connected to a remote unit in the system, and it polls the system
population from this point. The master unit must retransmit any
diagnostic frames that are not addressed to itself onto the
remainder of the population.
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E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part I – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
•
Mode – “Master” or “Remote”. When the master unit receives
a valid transmission from a remote unit it sets the channel busy
indication bit. This busy bit is interpreted by the other remotes to
not transmit. Once the transmission from the first remote ends
the master unit resets the busy bit to indicate the channel is
now clear to transmit on. The master unit, which is normally a
base station, takes about 5ms to detect a transmission from a
remote unit and set the channel busy indication bit on the radio
channel. During this period collision of remote transmissions
can still occur and is unavoidable. NOTE: The master can
only be a full duplex unit.
•
Backoff Method – “Retry after Tx Attempt” or “Delay before Tx
Attempt”. The method chosen is system dependent and can
only be configured if the mode is “remote”. The former is best
used when data responses from remotes are largely
asynchronous. The latter is best used when this is not the
case.
•
Backoff Timing – “Maximum Slots”, “Time per Slot”. This can
only be configured if the mode is “remote”. When a remote is
ready to transmit data but it finds the busy bit from the master
set it holds back its transmission for a random “backoff” time
after which it tries to transmit data again. This ensures that
modems waiting to be allowed to transmit do not re-attempt to
do so at the same time. The “Maximum Slots” (1 to 16) and
the “Time per Slot” (1 to 255ms) are used to calculate the
backoff time by multiplying the slot time by a random number
between 1 and the maximum slot number. For example if the
time per slot is 30ms and the maximum slots is 4, the random
backoff times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120ms.
•
Mode – “Master” or “Remote”. When the master unit receives
a valid transmission from a remote unit it transmits a carrier
signal to indicate busy. Of course the master will also initiate a
transmission if it has data to send. The transmitted carrier is
interpreted by the other remotes to not transmit. Once the
transmission from the first remote ends the master unit stops
transmission to indicate the channel is now clear to transmit on.
The master unit, which is normally a base station, takes about
5ms to detect a transmission from a remote unit and transmit a
carrier signal. During this period collision of remote
transmissions can still occur and is unavoidable.
NOTE: The master can only be a full duplex unit and cannot be
permanently transmitting. For half duplex and simplex systems
all units should be set as “Remote” (no Master).
•
Backoff Timing – “Maximum Slots”, “Time per Slot”. This can
only be configured if the mode is “remote”. When a remote is
ready to transmit data but it detects a carrier signal from the
master set it holds back its transmission for a random “backoff”
time after which it tries to transmit data again. This ensures that
modems waiting to be allowed to transmit do not re-attempt to
do so at the same time. The “Maximum Slots” (1 to 16) and
the “Time per Slot” (1 to 255ms) are used to calculate the
backoff time by multiplying the slot time by a random number
between 1 and the maximum slot number. For example if the
time per slot is 30ms and the maximum slots is 4, the random
backoff times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120ms.
Unit Information
As the channel busy indication bit is critical for reliable operation default
interpretation of this bit is defined in the remote units. If the master
modem stops transmission (or has not yet started) the remote will
interpret that the channel is busy and will not transmit until the master
comes on line.
Carrier Detect
This method of collision avoidance utilises a carrier transmitted to all
remotes to indicate that the radio channel is busy. When selected a
dialogue box appears and several options must be configured:
The information displayed is intended to assist the user to identify the
radio modem as well as support should their services be needed.
Radio Model refers to the type of unit. The ER450 is a remote
unit and the EE450 is a exciter inside a base station unit.
Radio Type refers to the frequency band supported by the radio
as well as the channel bandwidth. For example 51A02 is a type
51 band with a 25kHz channel.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
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Diags Installed is set to yes or no depending on whether the
diagnostics key has been set in the unit.
Serial Number is unique to each unit and is set within the unit at
time of production as well as included on the label fixed to the
unit.
Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package version installed
in the radio. There are several components associated with
microcontroller and DSP firmware installed and a single version
number is used to identify them.
Messages
The message window provides a log of error messages occurring
during use of the programmer utility. Several error messages may
occur as a result of a selection.
Status Bar
The status bar is located at the bottom of the main window and
provides information regarding communication actions occurring with
the radio data modem.
Additional fields located on the status bar include:
•
Unit ID refers to the identification label used by the diagnostics
utility. This is currently the same as the unit’s serial number.
•
Mode refers to the type of session established. It can be a File,
Local indicating a local port connection to the unit or Remote
indicating communications is via a radio channel.
•
Rotating bar progress indicator showing data is being
transferred to or received from a unit.
Unit Information - Details
More detailed information is also available to assist in identifying
components installed in the unit (remote, base station or hot standby).
The additional information provided is:
•
Controller Rev refers to the microcontroller firmware component
version for the radio.
•
DSP Code Rev refers to the DSP firmware component
version for the radio.
•
Processor Board ID refers to the processor board identification
number and hardware revision information for the radio.
•
RF Deck ID refers to the RF deck board identification number
and hardware revision information inside the radio.
•
Production Build Code refers to the automated production test
and calibration sequence used during manufacture of the radio.
•
Hardware indicates whether the radio is half or full duplex.
•
Unit Type indicates whether the unit is recognised as a remote
or base station.
In the case of a base station unit the following additional information is
provided:
•
Base Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package version
installed in the base station (front panel) controller which is
separate to the radio installed. There are several components
associated with this firmware package and a single version
number is used to identify them.
•
Base Controller Rev refers to the microcontroller firmware
component version for the base station.
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E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Introduction
Features
This section covers the operation of the Remote Diagnostic and
Network Management Controller Software Version 3.7.X or greater.
•
32 Bit Windows Based User Software.
•
Full graphical presentation.
Overview
•
Full SCADA style features such as database, trending,
networking, etc.
The Diagnostic Controller is a Windows© based program, that can be
run on a standard desktop or laptop PC.
•
Able to interrogate and display important operating parameters
of each radio modem.
•
Provides performance data of any unit - good frames received,
bad frames received, packet error rate, transmitted packet
sizes, channel usage, etc.
•
Provides statistical Packet Error Rate (PER) performance
calculations for any unit.
•
Provides powerful network tools such as channel occupancy
statistics, average received transmission duration, etc.
•
Can be set to background poll radio system for continuous
system monitoring and logging.
•
Provides full time/date stamped Status and Alarm logging/
reporting. A relational database is created and managed using
Microsoft Jet database engine Ver3.5. The database file, which
is an “.mdb” file, can be accessed with external programs
such as Microsoft Access.
The software runs in the 32 bit Windows environment and offers many
options and configurations which are easily accessible via pop-up
windows. These include group or timed polling, remote switching of
duplicated base stations, viewing of databases, logging and trending of
real time parameters , etc.
The Diagnostic Controller can be installed to run as a stand-alone
package, or as part of the TView+ Management Suite.
It is for use in conjunction with the D & E Series of data radio modems
and can be used for simple point-to-point links, or for more complex
point-to-multipoint and multilayer link systems.
The diagnostic facilities allow retrieval of packet statistics from each
radio modem. These statistics are used to calculate Packet and Bit
Error Rates, a units’ condition/health, network efficiency and
bandwidth utilisation.
The use of the diagnostics facilities provided by the controller gives the
radio modem system designer and operator a powerful tool for both the
maintenance and continuing reliability of their system.
The general operating parameters that can be obtained from remote
modem units are:•
Last RSSI level.
•
Last transmitted power level.
•
Receive frequency offset.
•
Power supply voltage level.
•
Current internal temperature.
These are displayed on the controllers screen in a “quick read” format
of bar graphs, as well as detailed response listings.
For the E Series radio modems to operate with the diagnostic
controller, they must be factory preset to include the diagnostics
response facilities or installed at a later stage (in the field) via the
programmer. Contact you supply for details.
The diagnostics data stream operates “alongside” the main user data
stream. No interference between the two streams occurs, so as far
as the primary user of the data system is concerned, the diagnostics
data does not exist.
System Description
General
The diagnostics process is based on a series of polls being transmitted
to the remote modem units with each modem having its own unique
assigned address which is factory preset.
When a diagnostic poll is received by a modem it checks to see if it is
addressed to itself, and if so, it responds with its diagnostic data back
to the controller. If it is not addressed to the modem, the modem
simply “passes the message on”, and does not respond to the
controller.
In a multilayer system, several “pass on’s” may occur before the
destination modem is reached.
The modem’s diagnostic response message is addressed to the
controller, and as each modem in the “chain” decodes this message it
will “pass it back”, eventually the message reaches the controller for
processing.
The controller software provides a database to hold the modem units
associated data (i.e. Serial number, assigned name, location, alarm
limits, SID code address, base station pairing information, status poll
response data, alarms, etc).
The units’ address is the serial number of the unit which is factory
preset. The name is any mnemonic that the user wishes to attach to
the modem. This name is then used to address the unit for access to
diagnostic facilities.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
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Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
The responses from the modem have boundary limits placed on them.
If a response is outside these limits then an alarm is raised. For
instance, the DC supply volts can have a lower limit of 12V, and an
upper limit of 16V. Should a response to a poll received show that the
DC volts is at 11V, then an alarm is reported.
With these counters one can then calculate average frame size,
average frame rate and channel utilisation.
•
Data bytes received (GoodByteCnt).
A unit can be excluded from a poll sequence by removing it from the
poll group.
•
Good frames received (GoodFrameCnt).
•
Bad frames received (BadFramCnt).
•
Total time the radio has received signal (RSSIgoodTicker).
•
Lost synchronization count (LostSynchCnt).
•
Lost RSSI count (LostRSSICnt).
Intensive polling of a single unit is possible using the Individual polling
facility.
A poll “run” can be set up. A time can be designated for the controller
to poll each of the modems in the system. This may be useful for
systems that have a low traffic period where diagnostics can be
“slotted in”, thereby spreading the data throughput of the system more
efficiently.
The screen is divided into three main scrolling sections - Status Polls,
Alarms and Base Station Activities. The status poll section displays
current poll activity while the alarm section displays any polls alarms
which have been reported. The Base Station activity section displays
any changeovers that have occurred to Hot Standby Base Units - if
no Hot Standby Base Stations are employed within the system, this
section will remain blank.
If base stations are employed in the system, then the two exciter units
contained in one base unit can be paired together. The exciters
operate in a mutually exclusive environment i.e. only one is active at
a time. When the exciters are to be polled, only the active one will be
sent a poll.
The base exciters can be toggled, so as the other exciter unit in the
base can be polled if required.
A relational database is created and managed using Microsoft Jet
database engine Ver3.5. The database file, which is an “.mdb” file,
can be accessed with external programs such as Microsoft Access.
All polls and alarms are time and date stamped and saved to the
database. All database entries can be sorted and printed.
For some multilayer systems, Stream Identifier (SID) Codes may
have to be added to the diagnostic data packets. Each modem can be
assigned a SID address (the default is 00) and the SID code feature
enabled.
Refer to Appendix A “Technical Notes” for further details of SID code
addressing.
The diagnostic core of each radio (Firmware Version 2.4.0 and above)
stores packet statistics for later retrieval. The Diagnostic controller
software uses these statistics to calculate packet and bit error rates,
network efficiency, bandwidth utilisation, and radio link integrity. These
network analysis features are an invaluable tool for larger networks.
In the receive direction, each radio modem can report the:-
These counters can be used to calculate average frame size, average
frame rate, channel occupancy, channel utilisation and link integrity.
Radio modems with Firmware Revisions 2.4.x and above have the
advanced statistical counters as noted above. Firmware revisions
below this (i.e. 2.3.x) only have Good Frame count, Bad Frame
count, Lost RSSI count and Lost Synch Count available. The
diagnostic controller will detect which firmware the radio has, and only
report the available counters.
All these features combine to provide a powerful tool for the system
operator.
Modem Connection
The diagnostics controller normally connects via a COM port on the
controller PC and the “System Port” on the radio modem (Port “A &
B” can be used if required).
NOTE: The controller can connect to any port of any data radio
modem within the system as long as the data radio port is configured
accordingly. When “Settings” is selected, the controller will interogate
the computers coms ports and display the available ports. Possible
valid com ports are 1-16 or “None”. Choose the desired port. None
allows you to free the com port for use with other programs without
exiting the diagnostic.
The modem port must have its SID codes enabled, and have the SID
code set to the system diags SID (normally this is set to “00”).
The data format used is the SLIP protocol, running at 9600 baud, No
parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit. Appendix B “SLIP Protocol”
contains a detailed definition of the SLIP Protocol.
COM1 of the controller PC is to be directly connected to the 9 way DMin of the modem using a 3 wire interface (see drawing below).
Should the PC have a 25 way connector, then the standard RS232,
25 way to 9 way conversion should be used.
In the transmit direction, each radio modem can report the number of:•
data bytes transmitted (TxByteCnt).
•
frames transmitted (TxFrameCnt).
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Operating Instructions
Menu Selection
General
File Menu
When the Diagnostic controller starts, a presentation screen is
displayed which will then lead you into the main diagnostics screen.
This is where all the major functions of the controller are accessed.
To utilise the Remote Diagnostics facilities, a database must be created
which includes the individual serial numbers, alarm parameters and
various other parameters of each unit.
The main screen presents the operator with the typical Windows pull
down type menu bars - “File”, “Settings”, etc. Icons of the most
commonly used selections are also provided across the top of the
screen.
The file menu allows the operator to create a New database, Open an
existing database, Add/Edit/Delete a database or View an existing
database. All such database tools utilise standard Windows type
formats for file selections as shown.
This screen is divided into 3 main sections:1.
Status Polls screen which displays all poll results obtained.
2.
Alarms screen which displays any alarms that occur.
3.
Base Station Activity screen which displays any
changeovers that occur with Hot Standby Base Stations within
the system.
The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will
display messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
The bottom row of the screen also displays a summary of the
configured parameters such as which com port is being used, whether
SID codes are on or off, whether polling is enabled or disabled, current
database path and file name, etc.
File - Add/Edit/Delete
After creating a New database or Opening an existing database, the
Add/Edit/Delete menu can be accessed.
Selected Unit
Selected unit is a pull down selection box, for selecting a unit to view
or edit.
The bottom line is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will display
messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
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Unit Name and Location
Hot Standby Base Pairing
Unit name is required and must be unique(max. 20 character).
Unit Serial Number
Is used when a Hot Standby Base is employed within the system.
The two exciters contained in each base unit need to be “paired”
together. Since only one of the exciter-modems can be active (online) at any time, only one can answer a poll. Thus the two should be
paired together so they are treated as mutually exclusive.
Is the factory preset unique serial number of the unit. This is obtained
from the label located on the unit or read from the unit using the
Programmer. On base stations the exciter serial numbers must be
read from the lid label or electronically with the programmer.
This selection allows the user to pair the two radio modems, by
selecting the other exciter with which the currently selected exciter is
to be paired with. The two units must of course exist in the database
as independent serial numbers before they can be paired.
SID Code (Diagnostic Stream Identifier)
Add New Button
Is the SID code address number being used by the unit for the
diagnostics stream. This is normally set to 0. Check the radio units
programmed configuration for confirmation and or system configuration.
Click this button to add a new radio modem to the database. The
Selected Unit, Name, Location, Unit Serial numbers and Hot Standby
Base Pairing fields will be cleared, ready for the entry of a new unit.
After filling in the details click the “Apply” button to complete entry.
Location allows the user to enter descriptions of sites and their
locations (optional, (max. 20 character).
Unit Series
Default to “E Series”, option on pull down box to select “ D Series”
Poll Response Timeout
Is the time in seconds the Diagnostic controller will wait for a response
from the remote unit. When a time out occurs, the controller will retry.
If three poll attempts fail then the poll request is terminated, and a No
Acknowledge (No Ack) message will appear in the alarms window.
One second is usually more than enough “wait” time. In a multilayer
system, longer response times may be necessary.
Alarm Limits
Allows the user to set thresholds for each unit which, when exceeded,
will report an alarm. Default settings are provided for remote devices
and base stations. These are selected by clicking on the appropriate
buttons presented.
If the controller receives a status poll parameter result which is outside
any of the threshold settings, it will immediately retry, in case it was
an erroneous measurement. If the next received poll result is still
outside the threshold, the retries will continue until it has received a
status poll within the threshold settings, or three status polls. If three
polls outside the required threshold are received, the average of these
polls is displayed in the status poll window and the offending
parameter(s) appear as alarms in the Alarms window.
Apply Button
Applies changes to selected units or complete the “add new” radios to
the data base. Additions and changes made on the screen do not result
in changes to the database unless this button is activated. This must
be done before selecting a new serial number/unit. Note that the newly
changed database will not be saved to disk until the Save and Exit
button is activated.
Delete Button
Allows deletion of units from the database. NOTE: Deleting a unit
from the database will delete all it’s associated status poll and alarm
history.
Click and a selection list of serial numbers will appear. Select one at
a time and then press the “Delete” button on the selection box.
Save and Exit Button
Press this button to save the newly chnaged database and then exit.
Additions and changes to the database will be saved to disk as long
as the “Apply” button was pushed.
Exit without Saving Button
Press this button to exit without saving the newly changed database.
Defaults drop down box
Choose either “Remote Modem Defaults” or “Base Modem Defaults”
from the drop down list. Click “Apply” to set the alarm limits to the
selected defaults. Click “Save” to save custom default values.
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File - View (view only)
Settings
The View Screen shows the unit alarm limits, current control states,
calibration constants, last poll results for firmware and system
information.
The settings menu allows the user to configure various setup
parameters. These include:-
Note: The View window is different for Remote radios and Base
Stations as well as for D Series.
Communications Port
With the pull down box, select the required communications port.
Com 1 to Com 16. Select the required com port speed (9k6 or
19k2bps). Default is 19k2bps.
Controller Address
Normally set to 0. Networks which have multiple controllers active,
should use different controller addresses, so responses from remotes
are ignored if the poll was not sent by that controller.
Enable SID Codes
Base Station - E Series
Enabled or disabled (Default enabled). In some systems, external
application of SID codes is used as a method of giving the modems in
the system specific data addresses. The modems are placed into the
“stream routing” mode, and the user (e.g. Diagnostic controller)
supplies the SID code at the start of each data packet to be
transmitted. In this way the user can “steer” the data flow through the
given network path.
Should the diagnostics controller be used in such a network then it too
needs to append the data addresses or SID codes to the beginning of
all data messages sent.
In the controllers database record for each modem, a field is supplied
where the user can select the SID code for that particular modem. By
selecting the Diagnostic SID code that suits the system topology, the
diagnostics data messages can be routed successfully to the correct
destination.
Auto Logging ON
Remote Radio - E Series
When enabled all logging functions will be activated when polling is
turned on.
Alert Tones
When enabled will emit a tone from the PC speaker or sound card
when Status poll alarms occur and/or Base Station change overs
occur.
Tx Power Display Units
Select either “dBm” or “milli Watts” as the display units. Power will
be displayed throughout the system in the selected power
measurement unit.
Note: Power will always be stored in the database file as milli-watts
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Polling
Poll Setup (Settings)
In order to obtain diagnostics information, the diagnostics controller
provides a number of automatic polling facilities, which include: Group
polling, Timed polling and Individual polling. The Group and Timed poll
facilities will automatically cycle through a selected group of units at a
predetermined interval (in seconds). The Individual poll facility permits
intensive polling of a single unit at a selectable rate, independent of any
Group polling that may be active at the time.
Under the Polling menu option, choose “Setup...” The Poll Settings
dialog box will appear. Here you can set :
When the modem is polled for the first time, the controller will poll (ask)
the radio for its calibration constants and firmware revision (these can
be viewed in the “View” window under the File menu). When this
initialisation procedure is complete, status polling can commence. If
the radio were to perform a “cold boot” for what ever reason (eg loss
of power, cold boot command received, etc), the controller will detect
this and initiate the above initialisation procedure again and display
“cold boot” alarm in “other”.
If Hot-Standby base stations are employed in the system, then only
the “on-line” unit will be polled. If a hot standby changeover occurs at
the base, then the new “on-line” modem will be polled and the off-line
unit removed from the poll sequence. A “Changeover” alarm will be
displayed in the Base Station Activity screen.
Poll Repetition Time
Is the time in seconds (2 to 3600 secs) between each status poll of the
group poll cycle. Each unit in the poll group will be polled in turn, at
this time interval.
Timed Polling
Allows the user to schedule a period when the group poll will
commence. This is a useful feature for systems that have times of
little traffic loading such as the early hours of the morning.
The status poll requests that are reported and displayed on the main
screen are;
Start Time
•
Temperature
Time at which the Timed poll cycle will commence. The time format
will be as per the regional settings.
•
Received Signal Strength
Number of Cycles
•
Transmitter Power
•
DC Supply Volts
•
Received Frequency Error
This is the number of times the controller will cycle through the poll
group when the Timed Group poll commences. Each unit in the poll
group will be polled this number of times.
•
Time and dat stamped
The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will
display messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
Apply Button
Click “Apply” to initiate any changes made in this dialog box.
Poll Group Select
Under the Polling menu, select “Poll Group Select...”
This dialog box enables Adding/Removing of radios to/from the
automatic poll group. Units in the Selection list box are available for
adding to the poll group. These units will not be polled during a group
poll cycle.
Units in the Poll Group list box will be polled during a group poll
cycle.
Clicking the Save button will save any changes in the poll group to
the database.
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Group Polling
Poll Repetition Time (2 to 3600 Sec)
This is the standard mode of operation. The diagnostic controller will
continuously cycle through the poll group, unit by unit at the poll
repetition time( 2 to 3600 secs).
Is the rate at which individual status polling will occur. Click on the
“Apply” button to apply any change made to the poll repetition time.
Bar Graph
Only visable if the selected unit is a “Hot Standby Base station” then
a switch base facility is provided for remote switching of the exciter
units. With polling on, click on the “Switch Exciter” button. The
changeover may take a number of seconds. The active unit will be
displayed in the “Active unit” field.
Display Bar Graph can be selected which displays all polls on the
“Bar Graph”. If a unit alarms, the measurement in question will have
a red background in the Text box.
Switch Exciter
NOTE: The hot standby base station has a minimum “toggle” time of 1
minute. This is to avoid rapid switching between exciter units, should
a fault be detected in both modems.
Data Logging
Status poll and Alarm data can be logged to a database file for viewing
at a later date. A relational database is created and managed using
Microsoft Jet database engine Ver3.5. The database file, which is an
“.mdb” file, can be accessed with external programs such as
Microsoft Access. You have the option of enabling logging of Status
polls only, Alarms only or both.
Log Status Polls
Individual Poll
Allows intensive polling of a single unit, independently of any group
polling that may be active. The individual poll window provides a bar
graph display for rapid visual recognition of the radio modems
parameter levels.
To log Status polls either select “Log Status polls” under the Data
Logging menu item or click the corresponding toolbar button.
Log Alarms
To log Alarms either select “Log Alarms” under the Data Logging menu
item or click the corresponding toolbar button.
NOTE: If “Auto Logging ON” is enabled in the settings dialog box,
then Status Poll logging and Alarm logging will automatically be turned
on when Group or Individual polling is turned on.
View History
Status poll history may be viewed using the Status Poll & Alarm
History window. This window has three tables: Status Poll History,
Alarm History and Base Station Activity. Each table has a “Number
of Records” box to indicate how big the selection is.
You may select “ALL” to see every units poll results, or view an
individual units poll results.
The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will
display messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
Polling Button
The selected unit will be removed from the poll group, then polled at
the selectable rate (Poll Repetition time) by clicking the Polling button.
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The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will
display messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
From To or ALL Fields
These fields determine the time span you wish to view. For example,
if you have collected several months of data, and only wish to view a
24 hour period, then adjust the From: and To: fields accordingly and
select the unit.
When the History window first appears, the From: and To: fields will
contain the last 24 hours of data.
If “ALL” is selected it will display the start and end dates of the
database.
The Date/Time format will be as per the regional settings short date
format.
NOTE: The smaller the time span you select, the faster the database
search will be. This will also depend on the poll rate that was used
during that time span.
Sorting
Each of these tables can be sorted in ascending order by: unit, date or
poll parameter. To sort, just click on the required column header.
To show the full status of a single report in the “Alarm History” click on
the box at the left by the unit name. Note this only works on valid poll
results not “NoAck”.
Printing
A printout of each table is possible by clicking on the associated Print
button. The table data will be sent to the default printer and formatted
as per your default printer configuration set up.
View Trend
The logged status poll data can be viewed in graph format, which
allows viewing of status trends over selectable time spans. This
provides a very effective and fast method of analysing a units’
operating parameters over time.
Features available include:
•
Scaling of graph(s).
•
View individual poll results using the cursor.
•
Automatically scroll through the group poll database, unit by
unit at a selectable time interval.
•
No Acknowledge messages are displayed by a gap in the
graphed data and a “NoAck” in other on the Time Line.
The line above Status Polls is a “Processing Status Bar”. It will
display messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.
Vertical Scale Setting
•
Manually set the vertical scales by simple typing in the new
level(s), then either press “Enter” or click on the “Re Draw”
button, or select a new unit.
•
Click the “Default Ranges” button to set all the vertical scales
back to the default levels.
•
Click the “Set Ranges to Alarm Limits” button to set the vertical
scale limits to the selected unit alarm limits.
From: & To: Fields
These fields determine the time span you wish to view. For example,
if you have collected several months of data, and only wish to view a
24 hour period, then adjust the From: and To: fields accordingly.
When the Trending window first appears, the From: and To: fields will
contain the last 24 hours of data.
If “ALL” is selected it will display the start and end dates of the
database.
NOTE: The smaller the time span you select, the faster the database
search and draw. This will also depend on the poll rate that was used
during that time span.
Use the ALL button to set the From: and To: fields to the maximum
and minimum dates found in the data in the database.
Select “View Trend” under the Data Logging menu item or click the
associated toolbar button.
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Poll Group Cycle
Tools - Statistical Performance
When toggled ON, this will step through each radio in the poll group
and display the trend graph. Set the step interval in the “Step Every
(Sec)” field. Default = 2 seconds
The diagnostic core of radios with Firmware V2.4.X and above have 6
counters which store packet statistics for later retrieval. They are:•
Lost Synch.
Cursor: Use the slider control, found at the bottom of the display to
move the cursor. The cursor box displays the parameter data of the
status poll at the current cursor position.
•
Lost RxSig.
•
Good Frames.
•
Bad Frames.
•
Time Ticker.
•
RSSI Ticker.
The Diagnostic controller software uses these statistics to calculate
packet and bit error rates, network efficiency, bandwidth utilisation and
radio link integrity. These network analysis features are an invaluable
tool for larger networks.
Statistical Performance Formulae
Timers:
Use the “Set From” button to set the From: field to the current cursor
position.
Use the “Set To” button to set the To: field to the current cursor
position.
Time Ticker (10mS): (RRT)
= timer that increments by one every
10mSec
Elapsed Time:
= Total elapsed time in hh:mm:ss from
reset calculated from RRT
RSSI Ticker (10mS):
= timer that increments by one every
10mSec when RxSig present.
(Virtual connection to RxSig LED)
Transmit Channel:
Tx Frames:
= Number of Tx HDLC frames.
Tx Byte:
= Number of Tx Bytes
Average Frame Size:
= TxByteCnt / TxFrameCnt
Average Frame Rate (mSec): = TxFrameCnt / RTT * 0.01
Channel Utilisation (%):
= (TxByteCnt * 8) / (RTT *
RFChannelBitRate)
where RFChannelBitRate is 9600 or
4800 Bits per sec.
Receive Channel:
Good Frames:
= Good Frames Rx’d
Bad Frames:
= Bad Frames Rx’d. Rx HDLC frame
error.
Good Bytes:
= Good Bytes Rx’d
Average Frame Size:
= GoodByteCnt / GoodFrameCnt
Average Frame Rate (mSec): = (GoodFrameCnt + BadFrameCnt) /
RTT * 0.01
Channel Occupancy (%):
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
= RSSIgoodTicker / RTT * 100
(Average from reset)
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Channel Occ Sliding:
= RSSIgoodTicker / RTT * 100
(Average from last update)
Channel Utilisation (%):
= (GoodByteCnt * 8) / (RTT *
RFChannelBitRate)
Miscellaneous:
Lost Synch:
= Increments on lost synch, must be
validated with RxSig. (Virtual
connection to Synch LED)
Lost RSSI:
= Increments on lost RxSig (Virtual
connection to RxSig LED)
Radio modems with Firmware Revisions 2.4.x and above have the
advanced statistical counters as noted above. Firmware revisions
below this (i.e. 2.3.x) only have Good Frame count, Bad Frame
count, Lost RSSI count and Lost Synch Count available. The
diagnostic controller will detect which firmware the radio has, and only
report the available counters.
Statistical Performance Counters Window
Click the Log Counters OFF/ON button to log the counters every
time they are updated. These can be viewed on the “Counter Poll
History” Tab.
Notes:
•
The controller will attempt a series of polls when either resetting
or retrieving the counters. You should monitor the status
window to ensure that the poll process completes. If errors
occur, they may be due to conditions like packet collisions on a
busy network, diagnostic controller trying to perform too many
poll functions (i.e. group polling, individual polling), etc.
•
E Series data radios have 32 bit counters and will count for 1
year, 4 months & 10 days if not reset occurs.
Live System Performance Tab
This provides an automatic test facility which will automatically reset
all the radio modems counters, and then after a 10 minute period
retrieve the new counter values. View the Performance counters tab
to see the result.
Indicative Packet Error Test Tab with Commissioning Record
Selected Unit
When a unit is selected, the controller will confirm that the firmware
revision has been received. If not, it will attempt to poll the radio
automatically to retrieve the revision number.
RF Data Rate
This Tab provides a simple link test facility. When this is running,
continuous Poll/Response diagnostic messages will be transmitted to
and from the unit and Packet Error Rate results recorded. If a
response is not received within the Poll Response Timeout period,
then an error (last Packet) is recorded. If the system is live, collisions
are likely and may effect Error results.
Select from the pull down menu 4800, 9600 or 19200 bps, depending
on your system settings
Status Bar
Reports any poll processing in progress or errors that may have
occurred.
Performance Counters Tab
This is the main statistical performance tool used for assessing
network performance.
•
Make sure “log counters” is checked on
•
Click the Update Counters button to retrieve the current
statistical performance results.
•
Click the Auto Poll OFF/ON button to automatically update
the counters every hour for selected unit.
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Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Print Commissioning Record
From the “Indicative Packet Error test” a commissioning sheet can be
printed to file (eg: using Adobe PDF write or similar), or printed
directly.
After running the test for the desired time (best results with no user
data), the test can be stopped with the “Finish” button. Select “Print
Commissioning Record” button and a page appears with the results
and also the unit identity, last poll results, system status and date/time
stamp for each record.
On this page there is also a facility to type in a “Comment” field. This
is useful for recording information such as where the test was
conducted and through what part of the system the test was
conducted. eg: via a repeater.
Press “Print” button when ready to send to the default printer.
Counter Poll History Tab
This is a database viewing facility. When logging is enabled “Log
Counters”, each time the counters are retrieved they will be written to
the database. Adjust the From: & To: fields to view a specified time
span or press ALL to obtain complete database period.
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Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Networking
Networking - Setting
Monitoring the radio network from other workstations on a LAN
network is made easy with the networking facilities provided by the
Diagnostics Controller. The radio network controller can be configured
as either a Server or Client. The Server will send poll information to
each attached client, depending on their access rights.
The Server should be configured properly first before any connection
attempts are made by clients. It will always be safer to stop any
polling that may be in progress when making changes to the Server
client set up.
Client groups can be set up. Each Client can be assigned to one
client group. Each radio modem can be assigned to one or more
Client groups.
A default Client group called “ALL” is automatically set up containing
all radio units in the database.
Client Groups Example:
All
Pumps
Test
Test Unit 1
Pump 1
Test Unit 1
Test Unit 2
Pump 2
Test Unit 2
Test Unit 3
Pump 3
Test Unit 3
Local Host Settings Tab
It is assumed that the workstation is running Windows, and has been
configured with the TCP/IP network protocol.
Pump 1
Pump 2
•
Open or create a radio database.
•
Under the Networking menu bar select “Settings” from the
menu bar.
•
In the Networking window click the “Local Host Settings”
button.
•
The Local Host settings will appear, which contains the Server
Host Name, IP address, Local Port and Password.
•
The Local Port is the socket number. Select an unused socket
number. Usually a number between 1000 and 2000 would be
safe.
•
Enter a password. This is required when in client mode, to
access incoming data from the server.
In the above example, the Central workstation, running Diagnostics in
Server mode, is polling all the radios in the network and distributing the
received messages to the attached clients.
•
Apply Change.
The Test Client and Pump Monitor are receiving Status poll and alarm
information from the Central server. The Test Client will only receive
poll information for radios found in the “Test Client Group” i.e. Test
Units 1, 2 and 3. The Pump Monitor will only receive poll information
for radios found in the “Pumps Client Group” i.e. Pumps 1, 2 and 3.
When in Server mode the Diagnostic controller uses an additional
database file (.mdb) to store Client information. This file is linked to the
main radio Database file. The link is managed by the Microsoft Jet
database engine. This separate linked file configuration permits
archiving of the main radio database (.mdb) without losing client
configuration data.
Pump 3
In the above example, there are three client groups, ALL (the default),
Pumps, and Test. A Radio modem can be a member of more than
one group.
Client Examples:
•
Central
This is the Diagnostic Server which
is attached to the radio network.
•
Test Client
mode.
This is a Diags controller in client
•
Pump Monitor mode.
This is a Diags controller in client
Page 64
Creating Client Database- File/Paths Tab
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
•
In the Networking window click the “File/Paths” button.
•
The “Current Radio Database” is displayed if open.
•
Select “Create New Client Database” from the Action drop
down list.
•
Click “Execute” to create and link the client database.
Adding Client Group(s)
•
Click the Remote Client Groups tab.
•
Enter the group name in the field provided.
•
Click on the Add button to add the group name to the database.
Deleting a Client Group
•
Click on the “Remote Client Groups” tab.
•
Select the group you wish to delete.
•
Click on the “Delete” button to delete the group name from the
database.
Adding a Client
•
Click on the Remote Clients tab.
•
Enter Client Name. This can be either the remote clients Host
name or IP address. Entering the client Host name requires
extra processing to resolve the name into an IP address.
Entering the IP address directly in the Client name field is more
efficient, although more cryptic.
•
Select a client group.
•
Enter the clients password.
•
Enter the client Port. This is the socket number used at the
remote client.
•
Click the Add button to add the client to the database.
Deleting a Client
•
On the Remote Client Tab, select a client to delete by clicking
on the record selector (left most column).
•
Click the delete button to delete the client from the database.
Setting Up a Client
In Client mode, the diagnostics controller basically just mirrors the
display of the server. Poll information can not be stored locally, polling
functions are not available via the remote server, and most of the tools
normally provided are disabled.
It is assumed that the workstation is running Win95/98/NT, has been
configured with the TCP/IP network protocol and has been added to
the Diagnostic Server’s Client Groups.
•
Under Networking on the menu bar, select “Settings”.
•
The Network settings window will appear, which contains the
Client Host Name and IP address, which are view only.
•
Enter the Client password as stored at the Diagnostic
Controller Server.
Adding Radio(s) to a Client group
•
On the Radios tab select a Client Group.
•
Enter the Local Port Address (socket number) as stored in
the Diagnostic Controller Server database.
•
Using the “Add and/or Remove” buttons to add or remove
radios from the Client Group.
•
Click the “Apply Change” button.
•
Under Networking on the menu bar, Select the “Server Mode”
button. This will place the diagnostic controller into Server
mode.
•
Under Networking on the menu bar, Select the “Client Mode”
button. This will place the diagnostic controller into client mode.
•
The Diagnostic Controller Server is now ready distribute
messages to client workstations.
A local Diagnostic session can be operated while in client mode, both
status messages will appear on screen.
Diags Client
A Client only version of this software is also available. This must be
used in conjunction with standard software running in “Server Mode”.
Local Com ports are disabled permanently in this version.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Page 65
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part J – TVIEW+ Management Suite - Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Interpreting Poll Results
Temperature
General
The modem is specified to operate within the temperature range of 30°C to 65°C. The defaults limits are set to -30°C and 60°C. At
65°C the modem goes into a high temperature foldback mode, when
the power is reduced to the low power mode. This is to reduce the
risk of damage to the final stage of the transmitter at excessive
temperatures.
The results returned by the poll requests give an indication of system
performance. When a new modem is added to the database, default
values are assigned for the limits of the returned results. The user can
assign different values to these limits as required, which is determined
by the fault tolerance level of their systems.
RSSI
The default RSSI limits are set at -30 to -105 dBm(-110 dBm for Base/
Repeater Station). Above -30 dBm the front end of the receiver will
saturate and it is unlikely that signal levels much higher than this will
ever be reported. Below -105/-110 dBm the error rate may become
too high for some applications. In the modem the RSSI measurement
is made periodically each 100mS, while R F carrier is being detected.
The modem will operate outside this temperature range but it is not
recommended.
Supply Voltage
The modem is specified to operate over a DC supply range of 11V to
16V. The default levels are set to 11.5V to 15.5V. The modem will not
operate correctly outside these bounds and damage may occur with
high voltage levels being applied.
Frequency
Transmitter power
The transmitter power limits are set at between 0mW and 20,000mW.
The modems will normally be operating at a power level of 1 watt.
The above limits are set to ±3dB of the nominal (3dB represents a
factor of 2 for power measurements).
The frequency limits are set to ±3000Hz. This is basically the
difference between the different ends of a data link. If the difference
gets much greater than this, data errors may occur (the modem will
have a degree of long term frequency drift of 1ppm / annum due to the
physical properties of internal components).
The effect of a change in transmittal power can be transposed to the
receiver BER curves (3dB down at the transmitter is 3dB down at the
receiver). The amount of variation tolerated will be determined by the
RF path loss of the data link being used.
If the modem is set to low power, then the transmittal power will be
nominally 200mW. Suggested limits for this would be 100mW and
400mW (±3dB).
For base station units or remote units set to high power, the nominal
transmitter power is 5 watts. Suggested limits on these would be 2.5
watts to 10 watts (±3dB).
In the modem the reported transmit power measurement is given from
a measurement made of the last transmission made by the modems.
When the PTT is ON a periodic measurement is made of the transmit
power. The modem stores this away and reports it when requested.
Parameter
Temperature
Supply Voltage
Rx Signal Strength
Frequency Error
Tx Power (Remote)
Tx Reverse Power(Remote)
Tx Power (Base)
Tx Reverse Power (Base)
Resolution
0.1 degC
0.1 volts
0.1 dBm
1Hz
0.1 dBm
0.1 dBm
0.1 dBm
0.1 dBm
Absolute
accuracy @ RT
+/- 4 degC
+/- 0.5V
+/- 3 dB
+/- 200Hz
+/- 1.5 dB
+/- 3 dB
+/- 0.8 dB
Drift over
Temp. range
+/- 1 degC
+/- 0.08V
+/- 2 dB
+/- 2500Hz
+/- 0.3 dB
+/- 1 dB
+/- 1 dB
Notes
+/- 0.45%
Note 1
Note 2
Notes:
1. Remote Tx power measurements will vary due to power setting variation which can have an
initial error of +/- 0.5 dB and final error of +/- 0.2 dB
2. Base Tx power measurements will vary due to power setting variation by the exciter which can
have an initial/final error of +/- 0.2 dB and overshoot by the PA <1 dB.
Page 66
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part K – Appendices
Part K – Appendices
Appendix A - Application and
Technical Notes
TN-4
Remote Diagnostics
AN-D3
SID Code Addressing Scheme for Small to
Medium Sized Data Radio Systems
AN-D4
Trunked Multi-Stream Applications of the D Series
Product Range
Appendix B - Slip Protocol
The SLIP protocol, is a data transport protocol, originated and used
extensively in UNIX(tm) based systems, and thus also closely
associated with TCP/IP networked systems. Although not truly a
“standard” it is so widely used that it has become the defacto standard
for serial interface in UNIX and many other networked systems.
SLIP is a method of framing messages containing binary data, on
asynchronous channels. The asynchronous serial channel is
configured for eight bit character size, no parity, and one stop.
A specific binary code called FEND (Frame End, hexadecimal
value=C0) is reserved to define a frame boundary. Should this same
code occur in the data message to be transferred across the channel
controlled under SLIP, then an escape sequence is used so that the
message byte will not be confused for a FEND. This escape
sequence, involves replacing the message hexadecimal C0 code
with a two byte sequence FESC, TFEND. FESC (Frame Escape)
is the binary code hexadecimal DB, and TFEND (Transposed FEND)
is binary code hexadecimal DC. Likewise, if the FESC character
ever appears in the user data, it is replaced with the two character
sequence FESC, TFESC (Transposed FESC). The TFESC is the
binary code hexadecimal DD. The following table clarifies this.
Abbreviation
Description
Hex.Value
FEND
Frame end
C0
FESC
Frame escape
DB
TFEND
Transposed frame end
DC
TFESC
Transposed frame escape
DD
As characters arrive at the SLIP receiver, they are appended to a
buffer containing the current frame. Receiving a FEND marks the end
of the frame, and consequently, succeeding bytes are considered part
of the next frame.
Receipt of a FESC code puts the SLIP receiver into “escaped mode”,
causing it to translate a following TFESC or TFEND back to a FESC
or FEND code, appending it to the buffer, and resuming it’s normal
state. Receipt of any byte other than TFESC or TFEND while in
escaped mode, is an error. No translation occurs, and the SLIP
receiver leaves escaped mode. A TFESC or TFEND received while
not in escaped mode is treated as an ordinary character and stored
accordingly. Reception of consecutive FEND characters, causes no
action to be taken (i.e. is not interpreted as zero length frames).
An example of a typical SLIP frame is shown below. The message
consists of the string DA,C4,C0,C5,DB,20,BD,DC,DD. The SLIP
frame will be:DA,C4,,,C5,,,20,BD,DC,DD,
==>
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
DA,C4,DB,DC,C5,DB,DD,20,BD,DC,DD,C0
Page 67
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part K – Appendices
Appendix C - Firmware Updates
Radio/Base Firmware Update
Base Station Display Firmware Update
Firmware update is performed on a unit connected locally to the PC. It
is recommended that all cabling to the unit be disconnected prior to
commencing firmware update to minimise any interruption to the
process or disturbances of signals on cables still connected. All other
TVIEW+ Management Suite utilities should also be exited during the
firmware update process. The steps to update the firmware as follows:
Installation Instructions:
1.
Start the firmware update utility from the TView+ front panel.
2.
Disconnect power from the unit by turning off the power supply
or removing the power connector to the unit.
3.
Connect the serial cable from the PC to Port B on the unit
4.
Select the unit type from the options on the top right of the
firmware update main window. Please note that “Exciter”
refers to the radio contained inside the base station.
5.
Select the file containing the firmware update package using the
“Select” button at the bottom of the main window. After opening
the file the browse window will close and a description of the
firmware package will appear in the main window.
6.
Initiate the firmware updating process using the “Write” button at
the bottom of the main window. Another logging window will
appear.
7.
Reconnect power to the unit when prompted in the logging
window. The status LEDs on the unit including power should all
be extinguished and the transfer of firmware should commence.
If this does not occur steps 6 & 7 should be repeated.
8.
The logging window will display the progress of each firmware
block transferred and when complete a success dialogue box
appears. Type OK to close this dialogue box and type “Exit” in
the main window to exit the firmware update utility.
9.
Disconnect the cable from Port B and re power the unit to
enable the new firmware.
Page 68
1.
Update of the front panel firmware uses the firmware update
utility supplied with the TVIEW+ Management Suite.
2.
Start the firmware update utility from the TVIEW+ front panel.
3.
In the firmware update utility select device type as “Base
Station Front Panel”
4.
Select the file containing the firmware update package using the
“select” button at the bottom of the main window. After opening
the file the browse window will close and a description of the
firmware package will appear in the main window.
5.
Ensure that the base station is powered.
6.
Connect the “TVIEW+ cable” to the front or rear system port of
the base station.
7.
On the base station front panel depress and hold the “Display
On/Off” button, then momentarily depress the firmware update
switch using a suitable probe before releasing the “Display On/
Off” button. The firmware update switch is located behind the
small hole (not labelled) in the front panel below the “Display
On/Off” button.
8.
Initiate the firmware update process using the “Write” button at
the bottom of the main window. Another logging window will
appear.
9.
The logging window will display the progress of each firmware
block transferred and when complete a success dialogue box
appears. Click OK to close this dialogue box and click “Exit”
in the main window to exit the firmware update utility.
10.
Repower the base station to enable the new firmware.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part L – Specifications
Part L – Specifications
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Page 69
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
Part M – Support Options
Part M – Support Options
Website Information
Telephone Technical Support
The Trio DataCom website support contains links to e-mail and
telephone support, tech notes, manuals, software updates.
Telephone support is available at our head office telephone number
Aus: (+61) 3 9775 0505 during Eastern Australian business hours
(9am-5pm).
Please go to www.trio.com.au/support.htm.
E-mail Technical Support
Contacting the Service
Department
E-mail your questions to support@trio.com.au.
When e-mailing questions to our support staff, make sure you tell us
the exact model number (and serial number if possible) of the Trio
equipment you are working with. Include as much detail as possible
about the situation, and any tests that you have done which may help
us to better understand the issue. If possible, please include your
telephone contact information should we wish to further clarify any
issues.
Page 70
The Service department may be contacted by e-mail to
service@trio.com.au , or by telephone during Eastern Australian
business hours.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
E Series Data Radio – User Manual
TRIO DATACOM GROUP
41 Aster Avenue
Carrum Downs VIC
Australia 3201
T +613 9775 0505
F +613 9775 0606
E support@trio.com.au
www.trio.com.au
Innovative and sophisticated
digital communications
designs products and solutions
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.
Information subject to change without notice.
© Copyright 2002 Trio DataCom Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.
Issue 4: May 03
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