Trio Datacom EB450-XXF01 Radio Data Modem Base User Manual E Series

Trio Datacom Pty Ltd (a wholly owned company of Schneider Electric) Radio Data Modem Base E Series

Users Manual Part 2

Page 31E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part E   Getting Started - EB450Digital Inputs and OutputsThe EB450 provides a facility for two channels of digital user inputsand outputs (Digital User I/O). Information on how to control andmonitor this I/O using TVIEW+ Diagnostics can be found in Part J -TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & NetworkController.All user I/O is optocoupled for isolation between the EB450 and usesequipment. When using the I/O facility the I/O electrical characteristicsand ratings must be observed. Failure to observe these ratings mayresult in equipment damage.InputsTwo User Inputs are available. They have identical interfacecharacteristics. Each input has an internal resistance of 470 Ohms.Some form of switching contact (ie: switch, relay) is normally used tochange the state of the input. Both an isolated and non-isolated inputconfiguration is possible.Typical Radio SetupIsTVIEW+ Diagnostics will recognise an input as being ON when theswitch is closed. If the switch is open (or not connected) TVIEW+diagnostics will recognise the inputs as being OFF.OutputsTwo User Outputs (Open Collector) are available. They have identicalinterface characteristics. The maximum current allowed through eachoutput is 20ma. External resistors must be used keep the currentbelow this value.Each output has an internal resistance of 100 Ohms.Ohms law can beused to calculate the resistance required for a specific voltage (keepingthe current below 20mA). Nominally 1k Ohm is used for a +13v8supply and 330 Ohms for a +5v supply.When the OUTPUT is OFF, V = Vs. No current will flow when outputis off.When the OUTPUT is ON, V = nominally 2.3 volts . Current is setby resistor.
  Page 32E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Bar Graph IndicatorsThe bar graph indicators on the front panel provide variable informationregarding the performance of the Base Station. To enable / disable thebar graph display depress the Display ON / OFF button. The displaywill turn off automatically after 5 minutes.DC Supply:Indicates the supply input voltage at the exciter module. Typically13.8Vdc.Indication: <10Vdc no LEDs on, 10-10.9Vdc LEDs RED, 11-15.6Vdc All LEDs GREEN, >=15.7Vdc last LED RED.Tx Power:Indicates forward RF power output as measured at the TX antennaport. Typically +37dBm.Indication: <20dBm no LEDs on, 20-40.6dBm (11.5W) LEDsGREEN, >=40.7dBm last LED RED.Tx Drive:Indicates exciter drive level. Typically +20dBm.Indication: <10dBm no LEDs on, 10.0-25.9dBm LEDs GREEN,>=26.0dBm last LED RED.Rx Sig:Indicates receive signal strength. Typically -85 to -65dBm.Indication: <-120dBm no LEDs on, -120 to -110.1dBm LEDs RED,>=-110dBm LEDs GREEN.RxFreq. Offset:Indicates offset of receiver AFC - useful in determining frequency drift.Typically 0kHz.Indication: Single GREEN LED to indicate current value, <-3.6kHz or>+3.6kHz LED is RED. No signal, all LEDs OFF.Note: 5 second peak hold circuitry.Part E   Getting Started - EB450Test ModeThe Bar Graph indicators have a Test Mode, which cycles all LEDsfor correct operation (before returning to their normal operation). Toactivate this mode, simply depress the ON / OFF button whileapplying power to the unit.Hardware ErrorA hardware error is indicated on the status LEDs by all LEDs flashingRED at a rate of 1Hz. This indicates internal communications to theexciter inside the basestation has been lost and the base station needsto be returned to repair.Received Signal IndicatorThe RX/SYNC LED  indicates the state of the receiver.If the LED is off, no signal is being received.A RED indication shows that an RF carrier is being received, but nodata stream can be decoded. This will briefly happen at the very startof every valid received transmission or may indicate the presence ofinterference, or another user on the channel.A continuous GREEN indication shows that the modem is locked andsynchronised to the incoming signal, and has excellent Bit Error Rate(BER). Any losses of synchronisation (BER errors) are shown as avisible RED flicker of the LED.Note: This might only be apparent on a PTMP slave when onlyreceiving.Data Flow breakout LEDsThere are also two LEDs to indicate data flow into and out of the twouser ports.Input data to be transmitted is shown as a RED flash, and receiveddata to be output to the port is shown as a GREEN flash.If data is alternately flowing in and out quickly, then the indicatorappears Orange.LED Indicators & Test outputsRadio is PoweredIf all the LEDs are off, no power is reaching the radio modem.Successful power-up is indicated by the PWR LED indicating acontinuous (healthy) GREEN state. Note that this LED is turned REDwhen the transmitter is active.LED Legend
Page 33E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.EH450 Quick Start GuideIntroductionWelcome to the Quick Start Guide for the EH450 Hot Standby Base /Repeater Station. This section provides additional step-by-stepinstructions to install, commission and operate the EH450 HotStandby Base Station. This document should be read in conjunctionwith the EB450 Base Station Quick Start Guide.The EH450 is a fully redundant, hot standby digital data radio base /repeater station providing automatic changeover facilities.The EH450 is designed as a modular solution, comprising 2 identicalEB450 base station units (standard) linked to a central, fail-safemonitoring and changeover controller (Hot Standby Controller). Eitherbase station may be taken out for maintenance without the need forany system down time. The automatic changeover is triggered by outof tolerance (alarm) conditions based on either RF and/or user datathroughput parameters.Part E   Getting Started - EH450Features and Benefits Individual and identical base stations with separate control logicchangeover panel Modules are hot swapable without user downtime Flexible antenna options  single, separate Tx & Rx, two Txand two Rx Both on-line and off-line units monitored regardless of activestatus Also refer to the common Features and Benefits list of the ESeries Data RadioBase  /  Repeater  UnitHot  Standby  Controller  UnitBase  /  Repeater  UnitNote:  RF  connectors  not used on ETSI versionRear  View
  Page 34E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Operational DescriptionThe  Hot Standby Controller (HSC) unit is a 1RU rack mountedmodule that interfaces to two physically separate base stations (each2RU rack mounted modules) via a number of RF and data cables.Both base stations are operating simultaneously and both units areconstantly receiving signals, however only data from one basestation, the online base station is directed to the user equipment. Theonline base station is the only base station transmitting at any time.The Hot Standby Controller has the following functions: Diplex the transmit and receive paths (Assuming internalduplexer fitted), TX Only. Amplify and split the incoming signal two ways so both basestations receive at once. Monitor status reports from both base stations to identify faultsand swap over the online base station if required. Switch the antenna via internal coaxial relay duplexer to theonline base station transmitter and inhibit the offline base stationfrom transmitting. Switch the User A and B data ports through to the online basestation.An optocoupler based switch in the base station controller directs datato and from ports A and B on the rear panel directly to ports A and Bon the on-line base station without any involvement from the HotStandby controller microcontrollers (apart from selecting the on-linebase). This provides protection of the system from failure of themicrocontroller.As well as ports A and B, each base has a system port. The systemport of each base station is interfaced to the microcontroller on the HotStandby controller. This allows the microcontroller in charge ofselecting the base station to receive diagnostic messages from eachbase station to decide their health.The base station has its own system port on the rear panel and this isinterfaced to the Hot Standby Controller Module. The HSC will routediagnostics at the rear panel system port to and from the system portsof the base stations.WarningThe base station front panel system port has priority over the rearpanel port, which is used for communication between the base stationand the Hot Standby Controller. This is to permit service personnel toreconfigure the base station module without disconnection from the HotStandby Controller. It should be noted however, that when the frontpanel port is accessed, a changeover event will occur due to lostcommunications with the Hot Standby Controller.Mounting and EnvironmentalConsiderationsThe EH450 Hot Standby Base Station is housed as a 5RU 19 rackmounted set, encompassing 2 x 2RU Base Station units and 1 x 1RUHot Standby Controller unit. The  mounting holes on the front panelsshould be used to secure the units to the rack.The unit should be mounted in a clean and dry location, protected fromwater, excessive dust, corrosive fumes, extremes of temperature anddirect sunlight. Please allow sufficient passive or active ventilation toallow the radio modems heatsink to operate efficiently.All permanent connections are made at the rear of the unit. Thisincludes: Power, Antenna, Communications Ports, Digital I/O andSystem Port. The front panel has an additional System Portconnection point for easy access.The Base Station front panel system ports must not be used while inthis configuration.Part E   Getting Started - EH450
Page 35E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Communications PortsThe A & B Data Ports and System Ports of each Base Stationconnect directly to the Hot Standby Controller units correspondingports with the cables provided. Ensure all clamping screws on theData Port cables are firmly secured and the System Port cables areclipped in correctly. See figure below for further details.Note: Only the front or rear User System Port can be used at anyone time on the Hot Standby Controller.Power Supply and ProtectionThe EH450 has facilities for dual power supplies to provide for aredundant  system. A separate power supply should be used for eachof the Base Station units. The Hot Standby Controller unit hasconnections for dual power supplies and it is recommended that thepower supplies from each of the Base Stations also be used to powerthe Hot Standby Controller unit. See Figure below for further details.See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section for detailed wiring information.The Hot Standby Controller units A & B Data Ports connect directly toyou application device and the System Port connects directly to yourlocal PC. See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section for further details.Part E   Getting Started - EH450Note: RF Connectors not used on ETSI versionNote:  RF Connectors not used  on  ETSI  version
  Page 36E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Connecting Antennas and RF FeedersThere are 3 primary antenna connection options.  All connectors usedare standard N Type sockets. See figures below for further details.See ER450 Quick Start Guide for detailed wiring information.Part E   Getting Started - EH450
Page 37E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Front Panel OperationSwitchesSelect SwitchThe 3 position switch (1 / Auto / 2) on the front panel provides thefollowing functionality: Position 1: base station 1 is forced into operation Position Auto: changeover hardware will select the online basestation Position 2: base station 2 is forced into operationThe select switch is also used to identify the target base station forconfiguration programming.Adjacent to the select switch are two LEDs: These LEDs indicate thecurrent active base station.Select LEDsGreen - Auto ModeRed - Remote ForceAmber - Local Force2 Green Firmware Download2 Amber Test Mode2 Red Fatal Error - refer User ManualReset SwitchThis is a momentary close switch which when depressed will reset allLED alarm indications.System PortThere are two system port connection points, one on the rear paneland one on the front panel. Both have the same functionality and canbe used for local diagnostics, firmware front panel downloads and hotstandby controller testing. To access the system port use thediagnostic/programming cable supplied.Note: When connection is made to front panel system rear systemport is disabled.Alarm Status LEDsThere are 10 alarm LEDs on the front panel, five for base 1 and five forbase 2. These LEDs provide a general indication of base stationstatus. More detailed base station status information is available byusing the diagnostic utility software.The indicated alarms for each base station are:Freq. => Frequency ErrorRxSig => Receive Signal (RF) ErrorData => Receive Data ErrorTxPower => Transmit Power (RF) ErrorSupply => DC Voltage ErrorThe status of each alarm is represented as follows:OFF => UnknownGreen =>  No ErrorRed => Current (active) Error conditionAmber => Recovered Error conditionAny active or recovered error LEDs will turn to green after the resetalarms switch has been pushed or remotely reset.Part E   Getting Started - EH450
  Page 38E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part F - Operational FeaturesMultistream functionality (SIDcodes)The E Series sends data messages in packets. A feature of the ESeries is that an address can be embedded in each packet. Thisaddress is called the stream identifier code (SID).By configuring a user serial port for a specific SID code, it ispossible to steer messages to similarly configured ports betweenradio modems. In effect, it is possible to use the multiple serialports available on the E Series, to enable multiple protocols toshare the same RF channel. The SID codes also facilitate the useof other features such as TView diagnostics. Unique selectiverouting, repeating, and data splitting functions available in the radiomodems configuration allow data steering and bandwidthmanagement in complex systems.See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmer and Part J -TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller for details.Collision Avoidance (digital andRFCD based)Where multiple unsynchronised protocols coexist on a commonmultiple access radio channel, there is always a possibility thatboth hosts may poll different remote devices at the same time. Ifboth devices attempt to answer back to the single master radio atthe same time, it follows that a collision could occur on the radiochannel.To facilitate the operation of multiple protocol operation on theradio channel, a transparent collision management system has beenimplemented : See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmerfor details.Digital Collision Avoidance SystemIf the multiple access master has been configured for full duplexoperation, it is possible to use the inbuilt collision avoidance signallingsystem.Once the master radio receives a valid incoming data stream from aremote, a flag within the outbound data stream is used to alert allother remote devices that the channel has become busy. Remotedevices wishing to send data will buffer the message until the channelstatus flag indicates that the channel is clear. A pseudo-random timingvalue is added to the retry facility to ensure that waiting remotes do notretry at the same time.RF Carrier Detect RSSI based CollisionAvoidanceIn half duplex systems, the receivers RF carrier detect is used toinhibit the transmitter whilst a signal is being received.Digipeater OperationA feature of the E Series radio modems is the ability to internallyrepeat data packets to provide stand alone repeater facilitieswithout the need for external intelligence.This is done by programming SID Codes to Repeat a stream orrange of streams. Wizard templates can be used to simplify setupof this and other features.See Part I - TVIEW+ Management Suite for details.TVIEW+ DiagnosticsThe E Series has an inbuilt remote configuration and diagnosticsutility.This facility allows transparent remote access to the keyconfiguration and operating parameters of the radio.See Part J - TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller fordetails.Part F   Operational FeaturesPoor VSWR SensingTo protect the transmitter, forward and reverse power are measured oneach transmission.If a VSWR of 3:1 or greater is measured, transmitter output power isreduced to +31 dBm.
Page 39E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part G  CommissioningCheck DC power connector for correct voltage (10-16VDC) andpolarity, BEFORE plugging in the power connector.Power-upUpon power up, the radio will self test and shortly after the greenpower LED will be displayed.Failure of the power LED to light indicates no power, or failure of thefuse due to incorrect polarity or over-voltage.Other failure such as fatal internal errors will initiate error modes asdetailed in Part E - Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs.LED IndicatorsWill depend on the system architecture. If the device is a remote sitereceiving a base station with a constant carrier, then the RXSIG/SYNC LED should be green to indicate healthy reception of thewanted signal.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 bythe RX or TX LEDs as above.Data flow to and from the user ports is indicated by the TXD/RXDLEDs for each port.(See Part E  Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs.)Data Transfer IndicationsBi-colour LEDs are provided to indicate RS232 data being transmittedand received on each data port. A RED flash indicates a byte (orbytes) of incoming data from the serial line which will be transmitted toair, and a green flash indicates a byte of data received off air beingreleased onto the serial line.If data is being sent to the radio modem and the Data LED does notflash RED, this may indicate a wiring or configuration problem. Checkthat the TX and RX data lines are correctly wired (see Part E  GettingStarted: LED Indicators and Test Outputs).Also check that character set and parity settings (i.e. N,8,1 etc) are setidentically at the terminal and the radio modem. Note that someincorrect settings of the character set parameter can still producetransmittable data, even though the data will not be understood by theapplication.Antenna Alignment and RSSITestingOnce the RXSIG LED is lit, it is possible to confirm RX signal strengthand align a directional antenna by monitoring the RSSI output.This DC voltage appears at Pin 9 of Port B.A ground reference can be obtained from chassis ground or Pin 5 ofPort A or B.The chart below shows Pin 9 voltage as it relates to signal strength.Part G  CommissioningLink Establishment and BERTestingOnce communications has been established, it is possible to confirmthe packet error rate performance of the radio path, and thus estimatethe BER figure.There are a number of tools provided to do this. The easiest is to usethe indicative packet error test provided within the TVIEW+Diagnostics under statistical performance tools. Alternatively, it ispossible to use hyper terminal, or other packet test instruments or PCprograms to run end to end or perform loopback testing.Please note that when using a loopback plug some understanding ofthe packetising process is necessary, since each test message mustbe carried in a single packet for meaningful results to be obtained.Note also that in PTMP systems, allowance must be made forcollision potential if other data is being exchanged on the system.VSWR TestingVSWR testing is achieved using specialized VSWR testingequipment, or a Thruline power meter that measures forward andreverse 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 radios transmitter forVSWR testing, use:a) An RTS loopb) A system port PTT plugAnalog RSSI Output Characteristics - E Series Data Radio00.511.522.533.544.55-120 -110 -100 -90 -80 -70 -60 -50 -40RF Level (dBm)RSSI (DC Volts)
  Page 40E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part H  MaintenanceRoutine  MaintenanceConsiderationsThe E Series hardware itself does not require routine maintenance.However all radio products contain crystal frequency references, andthe stability of these crystals changes with time. The effect of this isthat the product will slowly drift off frequency, and eventually it willrequire re-calibration. E Series radios are designed with high quality,low drift specification references, to ensure a long maintenance freelifespan. The length of this lifespan will depend on the severity oftemperature extremes in the operating environment, but is normally 35 years. Extended frequency drift can be detected using TVIEW+Diagnostics Freq error parameter.Generally, re-calibration is achieved by replacing the radio in the fieldwith a spare, and returning the radio to a service centre for re-calibration and specification testing at moderate cost.Routine maintenance should be performed on external equipmentsubject to greater environmental stresses including antennas, RFfeeder cables, backup batteries and cooling fans (if required). Thismaintenance should include testing of site commissioning figures suchas received signal strength, VSWR, P/S voltage etc.Part H  Maintenance
Page 41E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.SECTION  2Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite -ProgrammerPart J  TVIEW Remote Diagnostics andNetwork  ControllerPart K  AppendicesPart L - Support OptionsSECTION 2  TVIEW+ Management Suite
  Page 42E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerPart I  TVIEW+ Management Suite -ProgrammerIntroductionThis manual covers the installation and operation of the E SeriesTVIEW+ Management Suite which incorporates 3 utilities: Programmer for configuration of the radio RF parameters,system parameters and data ports Diagnostics* for real-time monitoring and logging of radioperformance parameters Firmware Update for loading new firmware releases into theradio data modemAll utilities can be run on any IBM compatible computer runningWindows 95® and above. This section describes use of theprogrammer and firmware Update utilities in detail. Users should referto the separate Diagnostics section for information about this utility.The programmer is used to set configuration parameters within theER450 data radio modem and EB450 base station. The utility permitsconfiguration of modems connected directly to the PC as well as overthe air to a remote unit. Configuration parameters can be saved to adisk file for later retrieval, or used for clone programming of othermodems.All configuration parameters are held in non-volatile memory(NVRAM) on the Data Radio Modem.  Configuration is fullyprogrammable via the Systems Port using the programming adaptorand cable supplied. Disassembly of the unit is not required for anyreason other than for servicing.The diagnostics utility permits monitoring and logging of radioperformance parameters for both E Series* as well as D Series* dataradio modems and base stations. It supports homogeneous systemsof radios as well as mixed systems of both E and D series radios.The firmware update utility permits field upgrade of the firmware in anER450 data radio modem, EB450 base station and EH450 hotstandby unit connected directly to the PC. A special serial adaptorcable is required to be connected to Port B to load firmware into theunit.* Requires the optional DIAGS Network Management and RemoteDiagnostic Facility to be installed - per radio.InstallationUnit ConnectionProgrammer and Diagnostics UtilitiesThe unit is connected to the PC using the supplied DB9-RJ45 adaptorcable (part no. TVIEW+ Cable) for local configuration changes ordiagnostic monitoring. The cable should be connected to the RJ45System Port of the unit and a valid PC serial port (e.g. COM 1) DB9connector.(See Part E - Getting Started: Communications Ports)Firmware Update UtilityThe unit to be updated with firmware connects to the PC using theDB9-DB9 adaptor (part no. DRPROG). The cable should beconnected to the DB9 Port B connector on the unit and a valid PCserial port (See Appendix C for details) DB9 connector.SoftwarePlease take a moment to read this important information before youinstall the software.The installation of this Software Suite is a 2 step process.Step 1 completes the typical installation of the TVIEW+ ManagementSuite and will install the Programming Software together with the ESeries Documentation.Step 2 installs the Diagnostic Software and is optional. This step isonly required if your radios have Remote Diagnostics enabled.STEP 1: Installation - TVIEW+ ManagementSuiteNote: If a previous version of the TVIEW+ Management Suite hasbeen 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 calledTVIEW+_(Version#)_install.exe After the installer starts follow directions.
Page 43E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.ProgrammerMain WindowWhen first started the programmer is in file mode as indicated by themode field at the bottom right of the panel shown below. In this mode itis possible to open a previously saved configuration file, or configurevarious 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) asession must first be established by using the READ function. Thisfunction reads the current configuration from the unit and displays it inthe main window. The mode displays changes to local or remotedepending on the type of session selected at the read function. Severaloptions in the main window may be blanked out until a session hasbeen established with a unit.Note: Changing any item on the menu will in general not take effectuntil 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 savedconfiguration file) Write unitSeveral modems of the same radio type can be programmed with thesame configuration using the clone facility described in Clone Mode. Itis important to note that when using this facility the cloned radio shouldbe of the same type to ensure it does not operate outside its capability.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerSTEP 2: Installation - TView DiagnosticSoftware (Optional)Note: If a previous version of the TView WinDiags software hasbeen 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 onthe 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 theTVIEW+ Management Suite installation in Adobe Acrobat format.Adobe Acrobat Reader is provided on the CD-ROM for installation ifrequired.TVIEW+ Front PanelWhen started the TVIEW+ front panel appears. The larger buttonspermit each of the three utilities to be started. The diagnostics buttonmay be greyed out if this utility has not been installed or found in thecorrect file directory.  Access to local help and an exit facility areprovided by the remaining 2 buttons.
  Page 44E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Pull Down Menus and Toolbar ButtonsThe items on the pull-down menus can be selected either directly witha mouse or using the ALT key in combination with a HOT KEY (e.g.ALT-F to select the file menu).  Several of the functions within eachmenu are also available on the toolbar (click once to select).File MenuThe file menu allows the user to load (open) or save configuration dataas well as to quit the program.  The files are saved with an .cfg fileextensionOpen (also available on the toolbar)This function is used to load an existing configuration file that can beused to directly program the radio or to use as a starting point to editconfiguration parameters.  Note that a session must be establishedwith the unit by initially reading the configuration parameters from theunit prior to being written to a unit.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 isopened, then modulation type will be imported and used, but only if itis valid for the connected hardware. If not, then the units readmodulation type will be used.Save (also available on the toolbar)This function is used to save the current configuration parameters to afile for future recall.If in file mode only basic RF, Port and System parameters aresaved and re called. If in local/remote mode then modulation type issaved and re called.Print (also available on the toolbar)This function prints out the configuration data to the default printer in astandard format.  There are no options for this item.This should be used if a complete record is required for site/unitconfiguration. Firmware/Modulation/Diags/Hardware type are allprinted.Exit (also available on the toolbar)This function terminates the program. The user is requested to confirmthis selection before exiting the application.Modem MenuThis radio menu allows configuration data to be read from andwritten to the unit (remote radio or base station) using theselected PC serial port connection (see Settings menu). Theaction of reading the configuration establishes a session with theunit. Communications is maintained with the unit to ensure thatthe session remains open. If the session has been lost due todata transmission errors or disconnection of the programming cable itwill need to be re-established to ensure any updated configuration iswritten successfully to the unit.Read (also available on the toolbar)This function establishes a session with the unit, reads configurationdata from the unit and displays it in the programmer main window.When selected a dialogue window appears prompting the user tochoose whether the unit to read is local (connected directly to the serialport or remote (connected over the air to the unit connected to serialport). Unit no. (Serial no.) must be entered and the stream SID code ison (default =0)). After configuration data is read from the unit it isavailable for editing and writing back to the unit or saving to a file. Theprogress of data transfer to or from the unit is indicated by a messagewindow as well as a rotating indicator in the bottom right hand cornerof the main window.Write (also available on the toolbar)This function writes configuration data displayed in the main window tothe unit and reboots the unit. When selected a dialogue windowappears prompting the user to confirm whether to proceed.  A progressindicator in the bottom right hand corner of the main window isdisplayed while data is being read. This selection is only available if asession has been previously established and maintained with the unit.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Page 45E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.This dialog provides a facility for reversing any remote configurationchanges that cause unexpected results resulting in the devicereverting to previous configuration if contact is lost.Choose Make changes and resume contact to safeguard changes.Some parameter changes (such as frequency change) will, bydefinition, automatically result in lost contact.Choose Make changes anyway and finish to complete intentionalchanges which will result in lost contact.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerAfter configuration data has been written, the session with the unit isclosed and the programmer reverts to file mode.Note: In general, any change made on the programmer screen mustbe written to the unit (using the write function) to becomepermanently stored. However, changes to Power adjust, Mute adjustand 7x/Rx trim take immediate effect to allow test and adjustmentprior to permanent storage via the write function.Cancel Session (also available on the toolbar)This function closes the session with unit and puts the programmerback into file mode. All configuration changes are discarded includingchanges to Power Adjust, Mute Adjust and Tx/Rx Trim.Wizard (also available on toolbar)This function permits the user to select standard configurations after theconfiguration from a unit has been read or a file opened.The user is prompted via a series of dialogue windows to select thedesired configuration that can then be written to the unit (remote radio orbase station).Clone ModeThis function permits writing of the same configuration data to severalunits. This feature is normally used for configuring data radio modemsconnected locally.The procedure is: Read the configuration from the first unit. Configure the parameters (or open a previously savedconfiguration file). Select Clone Mode (Modem menu). Write the configuration to the first unit. The changes will take effect when unit is repowered. Connect the next unit. Write the next unit which establishes a session and recognisesthe unit serial number and type, which then configures the unit Repower the unit for changes to take effect Repeat the last 3 steps for the remaining units.SettingsThis menu permits selection of the PC serial port (COM1 to COM4)to be used for communications with the unit. COM1 is the defaultselection and if a different port is to be used it must be set beforeestablishing a session by reading the configuration from a unit.  Whilsta session is established with a unit this menu can not be accessed.HelpThis menu permits selection of help information using the Contentskey. Warnings regarding use of the programmer software using theWarnings key and version detail using the About key.
  Page 46E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerPort A and Port B ConfigurationData from these two user ports is multiplexed for transmission over theair. Each port can be configured separately for the Character layer(Data speed, number of data bits, number of stop bits, parity), Packetlayer and Handshaking (flow control). Port B must be enabled ifrequired 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 (i.e. 8K & 8 K). If Port B is on, then the 16K is split equallyacross Port A & B Rx/Tx buffers (i.e. 4K, 4K, 4K & 4K).The following description is common to both ports.Character LayerThere are two standard formats and a custom format that can beselected by checking the appropriate control button to the left of thedescription. The standard formats are: 9600,N,8,1  (data speed = 9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1stop bit) 4800,N,8,1  (data speed = 4800 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1stop bit)A non-standard format can be selected via the Custom button thatdisplays a dialogue box to permit selection of data speed, parity,number of data bits and stop bits. Once selected the OK button shouldbe used to complete the selection. The custom selection is alsodisplayed in the main window below the Custom button.Packet LayerThere are two standard configurations and a custom configurationwhich can be selected by checking the appropriate control button to theleft of the description. There are essentially two basic modes ofoperation for the packet assembler and disassembler (PAD).The first is where the PAD operates in a standard mode with datareceived at the port being immediately sent over the radio channel.The second is a store and forward or delayed mode where whole datapackets are received from the port before being sent over the radiochannel.In both cases data is sent over the radio channel in variablelength frames and delineation of these frames is dependent onthe configuration selected as well as the characteristics of thedata stream received at the data port.The packet layer configuration options which can be selectedare:Standard (live framing)With standard live framing data received from the host by the modemis immediately placed into a frame and transferred onto the radiochannel. This avoids placing store and forward delays in the datatransmission.If a stream of characters is received by the modem, then severalcharacters at a time may be placed into the same frame. The numberof characters in the frame depends mainly on the respective baudrates of the user port and the primary channel baud rate of the modem,as well as the level of overheads experienced on the radio channeland the user data stream.For example a constant stream of 300 baud user data placed onto a9600 baud channel will result in 1 character per frame beingtransmitted.  If the user baud rate was lifted to 9600,N,8,1 with acontinuous data stream, then the frame size would settle to about 16characters plus 32 overhead bits.  If collision avoidance is enabled asmaster the average frame size will increase to 32 characters plusoverhead bits.The number of data bits associated with the user data stream will alsohave an effect on the average size of a frame.  For instance thenumber of stop bits, and number of data bits per character.The system designer must choose the best compromise of all theabove items to ensure the most efficient method of data transmission.Note: The first character is always packetised and sent by itselfregardless of all the above variables.
Page 47E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.ModbusThis selection configures the PAD driver with options automatically setto implement the MODBUS protocol, e.g. 5 mSec timer.CustomOther configurations of the PAD driver can be selected via the Custombutton which displays a dialogue box to permit selection of severalconfiguration options as follows:SLIP / DIAGNOSTICSHandshakingIf 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 theSLIP/Diagnostics protocol.The Handshaking section of the screen allows the selection of either ofthe handshaking methods as well as allowing handshaking to bedisabled.Details of the two handshaking methods are given below.HardwareThe modem acts as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) andsupplies to the host controller the following interface signals:Data Set Ready (DSR)Data Carrier Detect (DCD)Clear To Send (CTS)Receive Data Output (RXD)The host controller must act as Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) andsupplies to the modem the following interface signals :Data Terminal Ready (DTR)Request To Send (RTS)Transmit Data Input (TXD) DCDDCD has several modes of operation. It is set to TRUE whendata is being transferred from the modem to the host - RXD lineactive.  The signal is asserted approximately 500ms before thestart bit of the first character in the data stream and remains forapproximately 1 character after the last bit in the data stream. Theother modes of operation are dependent on the advancedsettings.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerSLIP is a well known protocol for transferring binary datapackets over a data link. Each data packet is delineated by<FEND> characters, and a substitution mechanism exists thatallows these characters to be included in the data packet.Appendix B describes the SLIP protocol which is usedextensively in UNIX based systems, and is closelyassociated with TCP/IP networks.The diagnostics controller package uses the SLIP protocol tocommunicate between base station and remote modems.DNP-3 / IEC870This selection configures the PAD driver to implement the DNP-3Protocol and IEC870 Protocol.Pull Down Menu SelectionThe PAD driver can be configured for a number of vendorspecific protocols by selecting the desired option.Custom FormatThis selection permits PAD driver to be configured in a variety ofways and requires a greater understanding of the system design.For the modem to successfully transmit its packets (or frames) ofdata over the radio channel, it must be told on what basis todelineate data packets received at the data port. Once the end ofa data packet has been received at the port the data frame isclosed and transmission over the radio channel commences.Delineation of data packets can be configured to occur via anycombination of: A pre-defined minimum time delay between packets receivedat the port. Typically the time delay would reflect the absenceof a couple of characters in the data stream at the specifieduser port baud rate. Limiting the maximum number of characters which can be putin the data frame sent over the radio channel. Receipt of a selected end of message (EOM) character at theport. An ASCII carriage return (character 13) is often used forthis purpose.As each data frame to be transmitted over the radio channel hasoverhead data consisting of checksums and SID codes.  Thesystem designer must determine the best compromise betweenthe ratio of overhead versus user data which depends on packetsize and user data packet transmission latency.The fields which can be configured are:Character Input timer: Set the input timer value in ms or enterzero to disable.  Range 0 - 255.Maximum Frame Size: Set the maximum number ofcharacters or enter zero to disable.  Range 0 - 4095.EOM Character: Select the check box to the left of thedescription to enable and enter the EOM character as adecimal value.  Range 0 - 255.
  Page 48E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.DisabledThis selection disables the DCD output on the port. This selection isnot permissible if hardware based flow control has been selected.RF Carrier DetectThis selection causes DCD to be asserted at the onset of a receivedRF signal being detected. This will generally occur severalmilliseconds before data is transmitted from the port.Data Detect (RS485 Flow Control)This selection causes DCD to be asserted when data is about to betransmitted from the port. This option is not available if handshaking isset to None or Xon/Xoff.RF ParametersThis section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter andreceiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim andadvanced features.TransmitterThe transmitter can be configured for transmit frequency and powerlevel.FrequencyThe required transmit frequency in MHz can be entered in the displayfield.  The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in therange for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.Power AdjustThe currently selected transmit power is displayed below the button indBm. The power level can be adjusted by selecting this button whichdisplays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or a typed in value, canbe used to select the required power level in dBm steps. There aretwo methods for setting the power.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer DSRDSR is permanently set to TRUE. CTSThe CTS is a signal from the modem to the host informing thehost that the modem is able to accept incoming data on the TXDline. It responds to the actions of the RTS line similar to theoperation of a standard line modem.The CTS is FALSE if the RTS line is FALSE. Once the RTS lineis set to TRUE (signalling that the host wants to send some datato the modem on the TXD line), then the CTS will be set TRUEwithin 1ms, if the modem is capable of accepting more data.The CTS line will be set to FALSE if the transmit buffer in themodem exceeds 4075 bytes, or the number of queued framesexceeds 29 to ensure that no overflow condition can occur. RTSThe RTS line is used for two reasons.  The first is to assert theCTS line in response to RTS. The RTS line can also be used tokey up the transmitter stage of the modem. DTRThe DTR line is used for flow control of data being sent from themodem to the host controller.  When the host is able to acceptdata it sets this line to TRUE, and if data is available within themodem, it will be sent to the host.  If the host cannot accept anymore data, then it sets the DTR to FALSE, and the modem willstop all transmissions to the host.Xon/XoffIf the flow control mechanism is XON/XOFF then the modemuses 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 totallyignored.Note: There is no substitution mechanism employed in theXON/XOFF protocol, so care must be taken when transferringbinary data to ensure that invalid flow control characters are notgenerated.AdvancedThis button provides access to the advanced features of the portconfiguration. When selected a dialogue box appears which permitsselection of the source for the port DCD output signal.
Page 49E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd. Using Factory CalibrationTo use the factory calibration of the radio the desired power is setimmediately using the OK button in the dialogue box. Thismethod permits the transmit power to be set without energisingthe transmitter. Note that although the transmit power has beenadjusted it must be written to NVRAM using the modem Writefunction to ensure it is retained after a power on reset. Using a Power MeterTo overcome manufacturing variations in the power setting amore accurate setting of power can be achieved by the selectingthe Test With Meter button in the dialogue box. This displaysanother dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter is aboutto be energised and that the power meter used should be able tohandle at least 10 Watts from the modem.Selecting OK in this warning dialogue box will energise thetransmitter which will also be indicated by the red transmit LEDon the unit. The power is adjusted using the up/down keys untilthe required power level is obtained. Selecting OK will retain thepower setting and turn the transmitter off.Note: Although the transmit power has been adjusted it must bewritten to NVRAM using the modem Write function to ensure itis retained after the modem is rebooted.Selecting stop test will stop and leave you in power adjustbox. Cancel will stop test and take you back to the mainwindow.ReceiverThe receiver can be configured for receive frequency and mute level.FrequencyThe required receive frequency in MHz can be entered in the displayfield.  The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in therange for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.Mute AdjustThe currently selected mute level is displayed in the main windowbelow the button in dBm. The mute level can be adjusted by selectingthis button which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or atyped in value, can be used to select the required mute level in dBmsteps. Whilst a session is in progress with a unit the mute leveladjustment is live. Selecting OK will retain the mute level setting. Notethat although the mute level has been adjusted it must be written toNVRAM using the modem Write function to ensure it is retained afterthe modem is rebooted.Whilst the modem is capable of receiving extremely weak radiosignals, and successfully extracting the data content from thewaveforms the mute level should be set to assist the modem infiltering out unwanted signals. Unwanted signals can be the result ofbackground noise or interference. The mute level should be set at alevel above these unwanted signals and at a level low enough todetect the wanted signal. Detection of a received signal above themute level is indicated by the RxSig LED on the unit.Setting of a correct mute level at a base station is critical if collisionavoidance is operational in a point to multipoint system. In this situationdetection of noise instead of a valid transmission from the remotemodems will effectively lock out all of the remote units fromaccessing and using the channel.Due to normal manufacturing variations the actual mute level mayvary by several dBm to that selected. If a more accurate adjustmentis required an unmodulated signal of the correct frequency and desiredthreshold level can be applied to the radio modems antenna connector.ModulationThe radio modem utilises a DSP to control the modulation of transmitsignals and de-modulation of received signals. This provides greaterflexibility in the ability of the radio modem to support new modulationschemes whilst maintaining compatibility with existing modulationschemes.The currently selected modulation scheme is displayed in the mainwindow below the select button. The modulation scheme can beadjusted by selecting this button which displays a dialogue box. Thedesired modulation scheme can then be selected from the pull-downmenu in the dialogue box and retained using the OK button.In the case of 12.5kHz channel radio modems the presently supportedmodulation schemes include: 9600 12.5kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 9600bpsmodulation scheme available in E Series products whichsupports a significantly reduced delay between detection of avalid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data. 4800 12.5kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 4800bpsmodulation scheme used in the D Series products to providebackward compatibility.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
  Page 50E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Tx/Rx (Frequency) TrimThe currently selected frequency trim, which is common to bothtransmitter and receiver, is displayed in the main window below thebutton in Hz. The frequency trim can be adjusted live by selecting thisbutton which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys can be usedto select the required frequency offset in steps pre-determined by theradio modem. Selecting OK will retain the frequency trim setting. Notethat although the frequency trim has been adjusted it must be written toNVRAM using the modem Write function to ensure it is retained afterthe modem is rebooted.This facility permits correction for drifts in the frequency referencecaused by component ageing.  For example, a standard crystal mayvary in fundamental frequency operation over 1 year by one part permillion. An adjustment range of ± 10ppm, displayed in Hz, has beenallowed for and if this is insufficient the unit should be returned to thedealer/factory for re-calibration.AdvancedThis button permits setting of advanced features. When selected adialogue box appears which permits configuration of the type ofreceived data clock alignment method.In the case of full duplex units the receiver is always active and is notinterrupted by transmissions from the unit as would be the case for halfduplex units. In this situation it is not necessary, or desirable in thecase of a base station, for the recovered data clock alignment to beremembered 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 boxshould not be set.System ParametersThis section of the main window configures the PTT control, collisionavoidance, stream setup for routing of data, advanced features andprovides unit information.PTT (Press To Talk) ControlRF transmission can be configured to occur permanently,automatically on data received at Port A or Port B, or RTS beingasserted on Port A or Port B. A PTT timeout facility can be configuredto limit the period for which the transmitter is enabled. Each option isselected by setting the control to the left of the description on the mainwindow. When PTT is active the Tx LED on the unit is illuminatedand RF power is being fed to the antenna.Permanent TxThis will cause the transmitter to be permanently enabled (keyed) anddisplays another dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter willbe energised immediately after the configuration is written to the unit.Selecting OK confirms this setting. The other PTT selections aredisabled when this option is selected.Note: This option is only available for half duplex units when beingprogrammed locally.Auto On DataThis will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) automatically ondata received at Port A or Port B and included in a complete frame fortransmission over the radio channel. The maximum period for whichthe transmitter will be enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting.From Port A RTSThis will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port A RTSbeing asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will beenabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which relyon establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require thismethod of activation.From Port B RTSThis will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port B RTSbeing asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will beenabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which relyon establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require thismethod of activation.In the case of 25kHz channel radio modems the presently supportedmodulation schemes include: 19200 25kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 19200bpsmodulation scheme available in E-Series products whichsupports a significantly reduced delay between detection of avalid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data. 9600 25kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 9600bpsmodulation scheme used in the D Series products to providebackward compatibility.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Page 51E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Stream SetupThis button brings up a dialogue box to permit editing of StreamIDentifier (SID) codes which are used by the modem as theaddressing mechanism for data stream routing. A SID code can beplaced at the start of each data frame as it is sent over the radiochannel.  The receiving modems use this code to determine how toroute the data message. The modem supports simultaneous operationof both Port A and Port B over the one radio link, along with theinclusion of a diagnostics data stream.Each port is independent and fully supports one of four options whichcan be chosen as described below. Note that the port B parametersare greyed out when port B is not enabled.The following diagram illustrates the structure of the stream routingfunction for each data port.SIDFilterSID Adder/TranslatorPort Data InRx Data In Tx Data OutPort Data OutStream RouterUser,TrunkRepeat,TranslateUser PortThis option is selected by clicking on the User Port button and filling inthe RXSID and TXSID fields to the right.In the User Port mode (Referred to in the previous programmer asMUX/DEMUX mode) all SID code operations are performedtransparently to the user.  Data placed into a user port which has beenassigned a specified SID code, will only be received by a modem atthe other end of the radio link that has a user port assigned with thesame SID code.In this way, Port A and Port B can be assigned different SIDcodes, thereby separating the data streams.Two SID codes values are available for each user port RXSID andTXSID.  The RXSID codes apply to the data being received by themodem, and the TXSID codes apply to the data being transmitted bythe modem.  This allows for different transmit and receive codes ifrequired, but generally they would be both the same.A situation where Tx and Rx SID codes may be different is in arepeater configuration.  In this type of application all data messagessent to the repeater will be repeated.  Thus by having different Txand Rx codes, a control unit will not hear its own transmission, andremotes will not hear the reply from any other remote.If the diagnostics facility is installed in the modem, then it too has a pairSID codes.  The diagnostics data simply uses a different data streamor streams to the user data, but is processed internally by the modem.If access to the diagnostics facility is required, similar to when thediagnostics utility is used with the modem, then the data portconcerned and the diagnostics stream, must have the same SIDcodes assigned to them. Alternatively the System port can be used,which is 19.2K, Slip.(Previously TXSID was referred to as SIDA2 or SIDB2 and RXSIDwas referred to as SIDA1 or SIDB1 for ports A and B respectively).Trunk StreamsIn the Trunk Streams mode, data that is inputted into the modem fortransmission must have a SID code appended to the start of the datapacket by the user.  The modem does not do it as in the User Portmode of operation.  When a data packet is received by the modem, itis passed through a SID code filter which is bounded by a lower andupper limit of SID codes.  The SID code is not stripped off from theuser data.For instance the lower bound is 03 and the upper bound is 07.  If amessage is received with a SID code of 02 appended it would not bepassed to the user.  If a message is received with a SID code of 04then 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 thebyte value of the code i.e. a code of 156 is equivalent to 10011100binary.PTT TimeoutThe PTT timeout facility is used to disable the transmitter if it exceedsthe designated time. The timeout value can range from 1 to 255seconds and the facility is disabled by setting a zero value.The timeout value chosen for this should be set according to systemrequirements which may include: Prevention of a remote unit remaining keyed up and locking outall other remote units in a point to multipoint system. Limiting the period a remote unit remains keyed up to preventbattery drain in a low power application.Note: If a PTT timeout occurs before completion of a datatransmission data will be lost.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
  Page 52E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.To select the Trunk Streams option click on the Trunk Streams buttonof the port to be used and fill in the fields to the right.  The From fieldis for the lower SID code limit and the To field for the upper SID codelimit.Note: When using Trunk Streams an unambiguous packet delineationscheme (e.g.. SLIP) should be used so that the SID code in the userdata can be decoded correctly.Repeat StreamsThe modem is capable of operating in a repeater mode.  Each userport can be configured as a separate repeater.  The associated userports are effectively disconnected from the outside world when inrepeater mode.  Data received from the radio channel is passeddirectly to the transmitter, and placed back onto the radio channel.The repeater must receive a complete frame of data before it isretransmitted.  In some systems this store and forward delay may besignificant, and careful selection of maximum frame sizes configured atthe source unit must be considered to minimise the delay.To enable the mode for the port click the Repeat Streams button andselect the range of SID codes on frames to be repeated.Translate StreamsThis is essentially a hybrid of the User Port and Repeat Streamsfunctions available on a port.  Whereas the latter repeats a range ofstreams, this function instead translates one stream to another, bydemultiplexing one stream (defined by Rx SID), and re-transmitting itwith a new stream address (defined by Tx SID).Note: Data is not presented to the user ports.Diagnostics ProcessorThe Diagnostics Processor uses several streams defined by the rangeof SID codes. The diagnostics commands received on each streamare sent back over the same stream. The Diagnostics Processor is anoption which must be enabled before this section of the menu willbecome active.Diagnostics RepeatThis option can be toggled on and off simply by clicking thebutton.Some applications will require that the master unit in a point tomultipoint system to repeat diagnostics frames only (i.e. themaster modem is not set up as a repeater).This will be the case when the system diagnostics controller isconnected to a remote unit in the system, and it polls the systempopulation from this point.  The master unit must retransmit anydiagnostic frames that are not addressed to itself onto theremainder of the population.AdvancedThis 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 theperformance of the unit.The Enable Diagnostics button should be selected and the 8 characterdiagnostics key code entered prior to selecting OK. If the key code isaccepted or has been previously entered the Enable Diagnosticsbutton will be greyed out. Contact your supplier for Key Codepurchase.Collision AvoidanceIn a point to multipoint system the master unit (usually a base station)can transmit at any time and the remotes will all receive the broadcastsignal.  However, if more than one remote unit transmits at a time,then a collision will occur during the multiple transmissions, resulting ina loss of data from one or more units.Two collision avoidance mechanisms have been included in themodem.  The standard (Digital) method utilises a signalling channelwhich is embedded in overhead data transmitted over the radiochannel. The second method utilises detection of a carrier signal topostpone transmission of data. Both methods require configuration ofseveral options for successful operation.The desired option for collision avoidance is selected by checking thecontrol button to the left of the description on the main window.NoneWhen selected this turns off all collision avoidance mechanisms. Thisshould only be used in point to point applications.DigitalThis is the standard method of collision avoidance and utilises achannel busy indication bit in the signalling channel transmitted to allremotes for control. When selected a dialogue box appears andseveral options must be configured:Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer
Page 53E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd. Mode  Master or Remote. When the master unit receivesa valid transmission from a remote unit it sets the channel busyindication bit. This busy bit is interpreted by the other remotes tonot transmit. Once the transmission from the first remote endsthe master unit resets the busy bit to indicate the channel isnow clear to transmit on. The master unit, which is normally abase station, takes about 5ms to detect a transmission from aremote unit and set the channel busy indication bit on the radiochannel. During this period collision of remote transmissionscan still occur and is unavoidable.Note: The master can only be a full duplex unit. Backoff Method  Retry after Tx Attempt or Delay before TxAttempt. The method chosen is system dependent and canonly be configured if the mode is remote. The former is bestused when data responses from remotes are largelyasynchronous. The latter is best used when this is not thecase. Backoff Timing  Maximum Slots, Time per Slot. This canonly be configured if the mode is remote. When a remote isready to transmit data but it finds the busy bit from the masterset it holds back its transmission for a random backoff timeafter which it tries to transmit data again. This ensures thatmodems waiting to be allowed to transmit do not re-attempt todo so at the same time. The Maximum Slots (1 to 16) andthe Time per Slot (1 to 255ms) are used to calculate thebackoff time by multiplying the slot time by a random numberbetween 1 and the maximum slot number. For example if thetime per slot is 30ms and the maximum slots is 4, the randombackoff times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120ms.As the channel busy indication bit is critical for reliable operation defaultinterpretation of this bit is defined in the remote units. If the mastermodem stops transmission (or has not yet started) the remote willinterpret that the channel is busy and will not transmit until the mastercomes on line.Carrier DetectThis method of collision avoidance utilises a carrier transmitted to allremotes to indicate that the radio channel is busy. When selected adialogue box appears and several options must be configured: Mode  Master or Remote. When the master unit receivesa valid transmission from a remote unit it transmits a carriersignal to indicate busy. Of course the master will also initiate atransmission if it has data to send. The transmitted carrier isinterpreted by the other remotes to not transmit. Once thetransmission from the first remote ends the master unit stopstransmission to indicate the channel is now clear to transmit on.The master unit, which is normally a base station, takes about5ms to detect a transmission from a remote unit and transmit acarrier signal. During this period collision of remotetransmissions can still occur and is unavoidable.Note: The master can only be a full duplex unit and cannot bepermanently transmitting. For half duplex and simplex systemsall units should be set as Remote (no Master). Backoff Timing  Maximum Slots, Time per Slot. This canonly be configured if the mode is remote. When a remote isready to transmit data but it detects a carrier signal from themaster set it holds back its transmission for a random backofftime after which it tries to transmit data again. This ensures thatmodems waiting to be allowed to transmit do not re-attempt todo so at the same time. The Maximum Slots (1 to 16) andthe Time per Slot (1 to 255ms) are used to calculate thebackoff time by multiplying the slot time by a random numberbetween 1 and the maximum slot number. For example if thetime per slot is 30ms and the maximum slots is 4, the randombackoff times can be 30, 60, 90 or 120ms.Unit InformationPart I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerThe information displayed is intended to assist the user to identify theradio modem as well as support should their services be needed.Radio Model refers to the type of unit. The ER450 is a remoteunit and the EE450 is a exciter inside a base station unit.Radio Type refers to the frequency band supported by the radioas well as the channel bandwidth. For example 51A02 is a type51 band with a 25kHz channel.
  Page 54E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Unit Information - DetailsMore detailed information is also available to assist in identifyingcomponents installed in the unit (remote, base station or hot standby).The additional information provided is: Controller Rev refers to the microcontroller firmware componentversion for the radio. DSP Code Rev refers to the DSP firmware componentversion for the radio. Processor Board ID refers to the processor board identificationnumber and hardware revision information for the radio. RF Deck ID refers to the RF deck board identification numberand hardware revision information inside the radio. Production Build Code refers to the automated production testand 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 remoteor base station. Tx and RX  Frequency Range indicates the frequency rangefor which the radio is capable of being operated in.In the case of a base station unit the following additional information isprovided: Base Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package versioninstalled in the base station (front panel) controller which isseparate to the radio installed. There are several componentsassociated with this firmware package and a single versionnumber is used to identify them. Base Controller Rev refers to the microcontroller firmwarecomponent version for the base station.MessagesThe message window provides a log of error messages occurringduring use of the programmer utility. Several error messages mayoccur as a result of a selection.Status BarThe status bar is located at the bottom of the main window andprovides information regarding communication actions occurring withthe radio data modem.Additional fields located on the status bar include:Unit ID refers to the identification label used by the diagnosticsutility. 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 Remoteindicating communications is via a radio channel.Rotating bar progress indicator showing data is beingtransferred to or received from a unit.Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - ProgrammerDiags Installed is set to yes or no depending on whether thediagnostics key has been set in the unit.Serial Number is unique to each unit and is set within the unit attime of production as well as included on the label fixed to theunit.Firmware Pack refers to the firmware package version installedin the radio. There are several components associated withmicrocontroller and DSP firmware installed and a single versionnumber is used to identify them.
Page 55E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network ControllerIntroductionThis section covers the operation of the Remote Diagnostic andNetwork Management Controller Software Version 3.7.X or greater.OverviewThe Diagnostic Controller is a Windows© based program, that can berun on a standard desktop or laptop PC.The software runs in the 32 bit Windows environment and offers manyoptions and configurations which are easily accessible via pop-upwindows.  These include group or timed polling, remote switching ofduplicated base stations, viewing of databases, logging and trending ofreal time parameters , etc.The Diagnostic Controller can be installed to run as a stand-alonepackage, or as part of the TView+ Management Suite.It is for use in conjunction with the D & E Series of data radio modemsand can be used for simple point-to-point links, or for more complexpoint-to-multipoint and multilayer link systems.The diagnostic facilities allow retrieval of packet statistics from eachradio modem.  These statistics are used to calculate Packet and BitError Rates, a units condition/health, network efficiency andbandwidth utilisation.The use of the diagnostics facilities provided by the controller gives theradio modem system designer and operator a powerful tool for both themaintenance and continuing reliability of their system.The general operating parameters that can be obtained from remotemodem 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 formatof bar graphs, as well as detailed response listings.For the E Series radio modems to respond to the diagnosticscontroller, they must have this option configured, either at factory build,or at a later stage, by the programmer. Contact your supplier for furtherdetails.Diags installation can be verified with the TVIEW+ Programmer. IfDiags is installed, it will be stated in the unit information dialog box.The diagnostics data stream operates alongside the main user datastream.  No interference between the two streams occurs, so as faras the primary user of the data system is concerned, the diagnosticsdata does not exist.Features 32 Bit Windows Based User Software. Full graphical presentation. Full SCADA style features such as database, trending,networking, etc. Able to interrogate and display important operating parametersof each radio modem. Provides performance data of any unit - good frames received,bad frames received, packet error rate, transmitted packetsizes, channel usage, etc. Provides statistical Packet Error Rate (PER) performancecalculations for any unit. Provides powerful network tools such as channel occupancystatistics, average received transmission duration, etc. Can be set to background poll radio system for continuoussystem monitoring and logging. Provides full time/date stamped Status and Alarm logging/reporting.  A relational database is created and managed usingMicrosoft Jet database engine Ver3.5.  The database file, whichis an .mdb file, can be accessed with external programssuch as Microsoft Access.System DescriptionGeneralThe diagnostics process is based on a series of polls being transmittedto the remote modem units with each modem having its own uniqueassigned address which is factory preset.When a diagnostic poll is received by a modem it checks to see if it isaddressed to itself, and if so, it responds with its diagnostic data backto the controller.  If it is not addressed to the modem, the modemsimply passes the message on, and does not respond to thecontroller.In a multilayer system, several pass ons may occur before thedestination modem is reached.The modems diagnostic response message is addressed to thecontroller, and as each modem in the chain decodes this message itwill pass it back, eventually the message reaches the controller forprocessing.The controller software provides a database to hold the modem unitsassociated data (i.e. Serial number, assigned name, location, alarmlimits, SID code address, base station pairing information, status pollresponse data, alarms, etc).The units address is the serial number of the unit which is factorypreset.  The name is any mnemonic that the user wishes to attach tothe modem.  This name is then used to address the unit for access todiagnostic facilities.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
  Page 56E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.The responses from the modem have boundary limits placed on them.If a response is outside these limits then an alarm is raised.  Forinstance, the DC supply volts can have a lower limit of 12V, and anupper limit of 16V.  Should a response to a poll received show that theDC volts is at 11V, then an alarm is reported.A unit can be excluded from a poll sequence by removing it from thepoll group.Intensive polling of a single unit is possible using the Individual pollingfacility.A poll run can be set up.  A time can be designated for the controllerto poll each of the modems in the system.  This may be useful forsystems that have a low traffic period where diagnostics can beslotted in, thereby spreading the data throughput of the system moreefficiently.The screen is divided into three main scrolling sections - Status Polls,Alarms and Base Station Activities.  The status poll section displayscurrent poll activity while the alarm section displays any polls alarmswhich have been reported.  The Base Station activity section displaysany changeovers that have occurred to Hot Standby Base Units - ifno Hot Standby Base Stations are employed within the system, thissection will remain blank.A relational database is created and managed using Microsoft Jetdatabase 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 thedatabase.  All database entries can be sorted and printed.For some multilayer systems, Stream Identifier (SID) Codes mayhave to be added to the diagnostic data packets.  Each modem can beassigned a SID address (the default is 00) and the SID code featureenabled.Refer to Appendix A Technical Notes for further details of SID codeaddressing.The diagnostic core of each radio (Firmware Version 2.4.0 and above)stores packet statistics for later retrieval.  The Diagnostic controllersoftware uses these statistics to calculate packet and bit error rates,network efficiency, bandwidth utilisation, and radio link integrity.  Thesenetwork analysis features are an invaluable tool for larger networks.In the transmit direction, each radio modem can report the number of:- data bytes transmitted (TxByteCnt). frames transmitted (TxFrameCnt).With these counters one can then calculate average frame size,average frame rate and channel utilisation.In the receive direction, each radio modem can report the:- Data bytes received (GoodByteCnt). Good frames received (GoodFrameCnt). Bad frames received (BadFramCnt). Total time the radio has received signal (RSSIgoodTicker). Lost synchronization count (LostSynchCnt). Lost RSSI count (LostRSSICnt).These counters can be used to calculate average frame size, averageframe rate, channel occupancy, channel utilisation and link integrity.Radio modems with Firmware Revisions 2.4.x and above have theadvanced statistical counters as noted above.  Firmware revisionsbelow this (i.e. 2.3.x) only have Good Frame count, Bad Framecount, Lost RSSI count and Lost Synch Count available.  Thediagnostic controller will detect which firmware the radio has, and onlyreport the available counters.All these features combine to provide a powerful tool for the systemoperator.Modem ConnectionThe diagnostics controller normally connects via a COM port on thecontroller 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 modemwithin the system as long as the data radio port is configuredaccordingly. When Settings is selected, the controller will interrogatethe computers coms ports and display the available ports. Possiblevalid com ports are 1-16 or None. Choose the desired port. Noneallows you to free the com port for use with other programs withoutexiting the diagnostic.The modem port must have its SID codes enabled, and have the SIDcode set to the system diags SID (normally this is set to 00).The data format used is the SLIP protocol, running at 9600 baud, Noparity, 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 D-Min 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.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Page 57E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Operating  InstructionsGeneralWhen the Diagnostic controller starts, a presentation screen isdisplayed which will then lead you into the main diagnostics screen.This is where all the major functions of the controller are accessed.The main screen presents the operator with the typical Windows pulldown type menu bars - File, Settings, etc.  Icons of the mostcommonly used selections are also provided across the top of thescreen.This screen is divided into 3 main sections:-1. Status Polls screen which displays all poll resultsobtained.2. Alarms screen which displays any alarms that occur.3. Base Station Activity screen which displays anychangeovers that occur with Hot Standby Base Stations within thesystem.The line above Status Polls is a Processing Status Bar.  It willdisplay messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.The bottom row of the screen also displays a summary of theconfigured parameters such as which COM port is being used,whether SID codes are on or off, whether polling is enabled ordisabled, current database path and file name, etc.Menu SelectionFile MenuTo utilise the Remote Diagnostics facilities, a database must be createdwhich includes the individual serial numbers, alarm parameters andvarious other parameters of each unit.Note: Not all options are available for some types of configurations.Where these options occur, they are noted.The file menu allows the operator to create a New database, Open anexisting database, Add/Edit/Delete a database or View an existingdatabase.  All such database tools utilise standard Windows typeformats for file selections as shown.File - Add/Edit/DeleteAfter creating a New database or Opening an existing database, theAdd/Edit/Delete menu can be accessed.Selected UnitSelected unit is a pull down selection box, for selecting a unit to viewor edit.The bottom line is a Processing Status Bar.  It will displaymessages about errors, warnings and poll processing.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
  Page 58E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.Unit Name and LocationUnit name is required and must be unique (max. 20 character).Location allows the user to enter descriptions of sites and theirlocations (optional, (max. 20 character).Unit Serial NumberIs the factory preset unique serial number of the unit.  This is obtainedfrom the label located on the unit or read from the unit using theProgrammer.  On base stations the serial numbers must be read fromthe lid label or electronically with the programmer.SID Code (Diagnostic Stream Identifier)Is the SID code address number being used by the unit for thediagnostics stream.  This is normally set to 0.  Check the radio unitsprogrammed configuration for confirmation and or system configuration.Unit SeriesSelect D Series or E Series.Select Base or Remote.Poll Response TimeoutIs the time in seconds the Diagnostic controller will wait for a responsefrom 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 NoAcknowledge (No Ack) message will appear in the alarms window.One second is usually more than enough wait time.  In a multilayersystem, longer response times may be necessary.Alarm LimitsAllows the user to set thresholds for each unit which, when exceeded,will report an alarm. Default settings are provided for remote devicesand base stations.  These are selected by clicking on the appropriatebuttons presented.Defaults drop down boxChoose either Remote Modem Defaults or Base Modem Defaultsfrom the drop down list. Click Save to save customised defaultvalues to the base or remote defaults for later recall.This section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter andreceiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim andadvanced features.Hot Standby Base Pairing (HSC Only)In a Hot Standby configuration two base stations are connected to oneHot Standby controller. For proper diagnostics management both basestations should be paired together. In a hot standby configuration, onlyone base station can be online (ie: able to transmit) at any one time.Diagnostics is still available from the off-line base stations (via the on-line base station).Note : This option is only  available if more than one base isconfigured in the database.Add New ButtonClick this button to add a new radio modem to the database.  TheSelected Unit, Name, Location, Unit Serial numbers and Hot StandbyBase 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.Apply ButtonApplies changes to selected units or complete the add new radios tothe data base. Additions and changes made on the screen do notresult in changes to the database unless this button is activated. Thismust be done before selecting a new serial number/unit. Note that thenewly changed database will not be saved to disk until the Save andExit button is activated.Delete ButtonAllows deletion of units from the database.Note: Deleting a unit from the database will delete all its associatedstatus poll and alarm history.Click and a selection list of serial numbers will appear.  Select one ata time and then press the Delete button on the selection box.Save and Exit ButtonPress this button to save the newly changed database and then exit.Additions and changes to the database will be saved to disk as longas the Apply button was pushed.Exit without Saving ButtonPress this button to exit without saving the newly changed database.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network Controller
Page 59E Series Data Radio  User Manual © Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.File - View (view only)The View Screen shows the selected unit alarm limits and last pollresults (radio and firmware information). This page will also autorefresh (every 6 seconds) if the unit selected for viewing is part of anactive single or group poll.Note : The view window is different for Remote radios and BaseStations (with and without a Hot Standby Controller-HSC).SettingsThe settings menu allows the user to configure various setupparameters.  These include:-Communications PortWith the pull down box, select the required communications port.Com 1 to Com 16. Select the required com port speed (9k6 or19k2bps). Default is 19k2bps.Controller AddressNormally set to 0. Networks which have multiple controllers active,should use different controller addresses, so responses from remotesare ignored if the poll was not sent by that controller.Enable SID CodesEnabled or disabled (Default enabled).  In some systems, externalapplication of SID codes is used as a method of giving the modems inthe 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 betransmitted.  In this way the user can steer the data flow through thegiven network path.Should the diagnostics controller be used in such a network then it tooneeds to append the data addresses or SID codes to the beginning ofall data messages sent.In the controllers database record for each modem, a field is suppliedwhere the user can select the SID code for that particular modem.  Byselecting the Diagnostic SID code that suits the system topology, thediagnostics data messages can be routed successfully to the correctdestination.Auto Logging ONWhen enabled all logging functions will be activated when polling isturned on.Alert TonesWhen enabled will emit a tone from the PC speaker or sound cardwhen Status poll alarms occur and/or Base Station changeoversoccur.Tx Power Display UnitsSelect either dBm or milli Watts as the display units.  Power willbe displayed throughout the system in the selected powermeasurement unit.Note: Power will always be stored in the database file as milli-wattsPart J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network ControllerModem Control States :Firmware : The current modem firmware version.Calibrated : Indicates calibration status of diagnostics.Paired Unit : Serial No of other base in a Hot Standby Configuration(HSC Only)Paired State: Indicates if paired base is currently the on-line or off-lineunit (HSC Only)System Status :Diagnostics : Enable or DisabledBase Station : Indicates if unit is a Remote or Base StationFirmware Packs : (Base and HSC Only)Radio : Base Station Firmware VersionDisplay : Base Station Display controller firmware versionLast Poll Results :Temp : Radio TemperatureRx Sig : RX Signal StrengthFwr PWR : Forward TX PowerRev PWR : Reverse TX PowerVSWR : Voltage Standing Wave Ratio- VSWR has white background when less than 2.0:1- VSWR has yellow back ground when greater than 2.0:1 but   less than 3.0:1- VSWR has red background when greater than 3.0:1DC Volts : Supply VoltageFreq Error : RX Freq ErrorDate : Date of Last PollTime : Time of Last PollHSC Connected to this Base (HSC Only) :Serial No : Serial No. of Hot Standby ControllerFirmware Pack : Firmware version of HSC
  Page 60E Series Data Radio  User Manual© Copyright 2004 Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.PollingIn order to obtain diagnostics information, the diagnostics controllerprovides a number of automatic polling facilities, which include: Grouppolling, Timed polling and Individual polling.  The Group and Timed pollfacilities will automatically cycle through a selected group of units at apredetermined interval (in seconds).  The Individual poll facility permitsintensive polling of a single unit at a selectable rate, independent of anyGroup polling that may be active at the time.When the modem is polled for the first time, the controller will poll (ask)the radio for its calibration constants and firmware revision (these canbe viewed in the View window under the File menu).  When thisinitialisation procedure is complete, status polling can commence.  Ifthe radio were to perform a cold boot for what ever reason (e.g. lossof power, cold boot command received, etc), the controller will detectthis and initiate the above initialisation procedure again and displaycold boot alarm in other.During group status polling, E-Series Hot Standby bases one and twoare polled simultaneously. The offline unit is highlighted with an asterisk( * ) prefix.The status poll requests that are reported and displayed on the mainscreen are: Temperature Received Signal Strength Transmitter Power DC Supply Volts Received Frequency Error Time and date stampedThe line above Status Polls is a Processing Status Bar.  It willdisplay messages about errors, warnings and poll processing.No Ack : Failed a diagnostics poll (three times)Diags Not Installed : Diagnostics has not been installed on the unitbeing polled.Re-Boot : Radio has been re-booted since the last receiveddiagnostics poll.Ports Halted : Radio ports have been halted.Not Remote : Radio has been configured in the database as a remotebut is detected as a base.Not Base : Radio has been configured in the database as a base butis detected as a remote.ERROR : Unknown or unexpected error.Switch Base : A Hot Standby Controller change over event hasoccurred.Poll Setup (Settings)Under the Polling menu option, choose Setup...  The Poll Settingsdialog box will appear.  Here you can set  Poll Repetition Time.Poll Repetition TimeIs the time in seconds (2 to 3600 secs) between each status poll of thegroup poll cycle.  Each unit in the poll group will be polled in turn, atthis time interval.Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -  Remote Diagnostics & Network ControllerAlarmsIf the controller receives a status poll where the result (Temp, Rx Sig,Tx PWR, DC Volts or Freq Err) is outside the user programmedalarm limits, the poll is declared to be an Alarm and the information isdisplayed in the Alarms area. Alarm conditions are declared afterthree consecutive polls show an alarm. This eliminates the reporting oferroneous alarms.Other alarms (not related to those mentioned above) may also causean Alarm condition. These polls are also displayed in the Alarmwindow with further details shown in the Other column. The alarmtypes are:Timed PollingAllows the user to schedule a period when the group poll willcommence.  This is a useful feature for systems that have times oflittle traffic loading such as the early hours of the morning.Start TimeTime at which the Timed poll cycle will commence. The time formatwill be as per the regional settings.Number of CyclesThis is the number of times the controller will cycle through the pollgroup when the Timed Group poll commences. Each unit in the pollgroup will be polled this number of times.HSC Group Polling (HSC Only)This is the time in seconds (2-3600) between consecutive polls foreach Hot Standby Controller status display. Diagnostics allows for upto 50 instances of the HSC status window. The poll repetition time isthe time waited between each window. (ie: 3 HSC status windowswith a time of 2 secs would take 6 seconds to complete an update onall three windows).Base Digital I/O Polling (Base Only)Is the time in seconds (2-3600) between consecutive polls for eachbase station digital I/O display. The timer behaves in the same wayas the HSC group polling time.Apply ButtonClick Apply to initiate any changes made in this dialog box.

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