Trio Datacom ER450-XXF01 Remote Radio Data Modem User Manual temp warning E Series R3

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Installation Guide Part 1 HTML Version

Installation Guide Part 1

User Manual

E Series Data Radio

www.trio.com.au

ER450 Remote Data Radio

EB450 Base Station

EH450 Hot Stand-by Base Station

Issue 4: May 2003

Page 2

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Warranty

All equipment supplied by Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd. is warranted against

faulty workmanship and parts for a period of twelve (12) months from

the date of delivery to the customer. During the warranty period Trio

DataCom Pty. Ltd. shall, at its option, repair or replace faulty parts or

equipment provided the fault has not been caused by misuse,

accident, deliberate damage, abnormal atmosphere, liquid immersion

or lightning discharge; or where attempts have been made by

unauthorised persons to repair or modify the equipment.

The warranty does not cover modifications to software. All equipment

for repair under warranty must be returned freight paid to Trio DataCom

Pty. Ltd. or to such other place as Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd. shall

nominate. Following repair or replacement the equipment shall be

returned to the customer freight forward. If it is not possible due to the

nature of the equipment for it to be returned to Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd.,

then such expenses as may be incurred by Trio DataCom Pty. Ltd. in

servicing the equipment in situ shall be chargeable to the customer.

When equipment for repair does not qualify for repair or replacement

under warranty, repairs shall be performed at the prevailing costs for

parts and labour. Under no circumstances shall Trio DataCom Pty.

Ltd.’s liability extend beyond the above nor shall Trio DataCom Pty.

Ltd., its principals, servants or agents be liable for the consequential

damages caused by the failure or malfunction of any equipment.

Important Notice

This manual covers the operation of the E Series of Digital Data

Radios. Specifications described are typical only and are subject to

normal manufacturing and service tolerances.

Trio DataCom Pty Ltd reserves the right to modify the equipment, its

specification or this manual without prior notice, in the interest of

improving performance, reliability or servicing. At the time of

publication all data is correct for the operation of the equipment at

the voltage and/or temperature referred to. Performance data

indicates typical values related to the particular product.

This manual is copyright by Trio DataCom Pty Ltd. All rights

reserved. No part of the documentation or the information supplied

may be divulged to any third party without the express written

permission of Trio DataCom Pty Ltd.

Same are proprietary to Trio DataCom Pty Ltd and are supplied for

the purposes referred to in the accompanying documentation and

must not be used for any other purpose. All such information

remains the property of Trio DataCom Pty Ltd and may not be

reproduced, copied, stored on or transferred to any other media or

used or distributed in any way save for the express purposes for

which it is supplied.

Products offered may contain software which is proprietary to Trio

DataCom Pty Ltd. However, the offer of supply of these products

and services does not include or infer any transfer of ownership of

such proprietary information and as such reproduction or reuse

without the express permission in writing from Trio DataCom Pty

Ltd is forbidden. Permission may be applied for by contacting Trio

DataCom Pty Ltd in writing.

Part A - Preface

Warning :- RF Exposure

The radio equipment described in this user manual emits low level

radio frequency energy. The concentrated energy may pose a health

hazard depending on the type of antenna used. In the case of a non-

directional antenna do not allow people to come within 0.5 metres of

the antenna when the transmitter is operating. In the case of a

directional antenna do not allow people to come within 6 metres of the

antenna when the transmitter is operating.

Related Products 2

Other Related Documentation and Products 2

Revision History 2

Part B  E Series Overview 4

Definition of E Series Data Radio 4

E Series Product Range 4

E Series – Features and Benefits 4

Model Number Codes 6

Standard Accessories 7

Part C  Applications 8

Generic Connectivity 8

Application Detail 8

Systems Architecture 9

Part D  System Planning and Design 11

Understanding RF Path Requirements 11

Examples of Predictive Path Modelling 12

Selecting Antennas 14

Data Connectivity 15

Power Supply and Environmental Considerations 18

Physical Dimensions of the Remote Data Radio 19

Physical Dimensions of the Base Station 20

Physical Dimensions of the Hot Standby Base Station 21

Part E  Getting Started 22

ER450 Quick Start Guide 22

EB450 Quick Start Guide 28

EH450 Quick Start Guide 31

Part F - Operational Features 36

Multistream functionality (SID codes) 36

Collision Avoidance (digital and RFCD based) 36

Digipeater Operation 36

TVIEW+ Diagnostics 36

Part G  Commissioning 37

Power-up 37

LED Indicators 37

Data Transfer Indications 37

Antenna Alignment and RSSI Testing 37

Link Establishment and BER Testing 37

VSWR Testing 37

Part H  Maintenance 38

Routine Maintenance Considerations 38

SECTION 2

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite -

Programmer 40

Introduction 40

Installation 40

TVIEW+ Front Panel 41

Programmer 41

Part J  TVIEW+ Management Suite -

Remote Diagnostics & Network

Controller 53

Introduction 53

System Description 53

Operating Instructions 55

Interpreting Poll Results 66

Part K  Appendices 67

Appendix A - Application and Technical Notes 67

Appendix B - Slip Protocol 67

Appendix C - Firmware Updates 68

Part L  Specifications 69

Part M  Support Options 70

Website Information 70

E-mail Technical Support 70

Telephone Technical Support 70

Contacting the Service Department 70

Page 4

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part B  E Series Overview

Definition of E Series Data Radio

The E Series is a range of wireless modems designed for the

transmission of data communications for SCADA, telemetry, and

any other information and control applications that utilise ASCII

messaging techniques. The E Series uses advanced “digital”

modulation and signal processing techniques to achieve

exceptionally high data throughput efficiency using traditional

licensed narrow band radio channels.

The products are available in many frequency band and regulatory

formats to suit spectrum bandplans in various continental regions.

The range is designed for both fixed point to point (PTP), and

multiple address (MAS) or point to multipoint (PMP) systems.

E Series Product Range

The E Series range consists of the basic half duplex “Remote”

radio modem, an extended feature full duplex Remote radio

modem, and ruggedised Base Station variants, including an

optional Hot Standby controller to control two base station units in

a redundant configuration.

Frequency band variants are indicated by the band prefix and

model numbering. (See Model Number Codes)

Part B  E Series Overview

E Series  Features and Benefits

Common Features and Benefits of the E

Series Data Radio

• Up to 19200bps over-air data rates using programmable

DSP based advanced modulation schemes

• Designed to various International regulatory requirements

including FCC, ETSI and ACA

• Superior receiver sensitivity

• Fast data turnaround time <10mS

• Flash upgrade-able firmware – insurance against obsolescence

• Multi-function bi-colour Tx/Rx data LEDS showing Port activity

(breakout box style), as well as LEDs indicating Tx, Rx, RF

Signal, Data Synchronisation and DC Power status of the

radio

• Rugged N type antenna connectors on all equipment

• High temperature transmitter foldback protection

• Two independent configurable data ports and separate system

port

• Higher port speeds to support increased air-rate (up to

76800bps on Port A and 38400bps on Port B)

• Independent system port for interruption free programming and

diagnostics (in addition to two (2) user ports)

• 9600bps in 12.5 kHz radio channels with ETSI specifications

• Remote over-the-air configuration of any radio from any location

• Multistream™ simultaneous data streams allows for multiple

vendor devices / protocols to be transported on the one radio

network

• Flexible data stream routing and steering providing optimum

radio channel efficiency – complex data radio systems can be

implemented with fewer radio channels

• The ability to duplicate data streams – that is, decode the same

off-air data to two separate ports.

• Multi-function radio capable of dropping off one stream to a port

and forward on or repeat (store and forward) the same or other

data.

• Stand-alone internal store and forward operation – buffered store

and forward operation even in the ER remote units

• Unique integrated C/DSMA collision avoidance technology

permits simultaneous polling and spontaneous reporting

operation in the same system

• Digital receiver frequency tracking for long term data reliability

• Network wide non intrusive diagnostics which runs

simultaneously with the application

ER450 Remote Radio

EB450 Base / Repeater Station

EH450 Hot Standby Base Station

Page 5

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part B  E Series Overview

• Network wide diagnostics interrogation which can be

performed from anywhere in the system including any remote

site

• Diagnostics will route its way to any remote or base / repeater

site regardless of how many base / repeater stations are

interconnected

• Full range of advanced features available within Network

Management and Remote Diagnostics package – BER testing,

trending, channel occupancy, client / server operation, etc.

• On board memory for improving user data latency – increased

user interface speeds

• Full CRC error checked data – no erroneous data due to

squelch tails or headers

• Radio utilises world standard HDLC as its transportation

protocol

• Various flow control and PTT control mechanisms

• Configurable backward compatibility with existing D Series

modulation scheme for use within existing networks

• Digital plug in order wire option for commissioning and

occasional voice communications without the need to inhibit

users application data

Features and Benefits of ER450 Remote

Data Radio

• Optional full duplex capable remote – separate Tx and Rx ports

for connection to an external duplexer

• New compact and rugged die cast case with inbuilt heatsink

• Low power consumption with various sleep modes

• Rugged N type antenna connectors

• In-line power supply fuses

• Data Port “breakout box” style flow LEDs for easier

troubleshooting

Features and Benefits of EB450 Standard

Base / Repeater Station

• Competitively priced high performance base

• Incorporates a rugged 5W power amplifier module

• External input for higher stability 10MHz reference – GPS

derived

Features and Benefits of EH450 Hot Standby

Base / Repeater Station

• Individual and identical base stations with separate control logic

changeover panel

• ALL modules are hot swapable without any user downtime

• Flexible antenna options – single, separate Tx & Rx, two Tx

and two Rx

• Increased sensitivity with receiver pre-amplifier

• Both on-line and off-line units monitored regardless of active

status

• External input for higher stability 10MHz reference – GPS

derived

Page 6

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Model Number Codes

D, E & S Series Data Radios - Part Number Matrix = Tyxxx-aabbb-cd

T y xxx-aa bbb-cd

Options - Base Stations* Options - Remote Antenna Connector*

0= No Options 0= No Options (Standard)

1= 450MHz Band Reject

[DUPLX450BR]

N= N Connector (D Series only)

2= 450MHz Band Reject

(<9MHz split)[DUPLX450BR/5]

S= SMA Connector (SR450 only)

3= 450MHz Band Pass

[DUPLX450BP]

4= 900MHz Band Reject

[DUPLX900BR]

5= 900MHz Band Pass

[DUPLX900BP]

6= 900MHz Band Pass

(76MHz split)[DUPLX852/930]

Note: Specify Internally or Externally fitted. Externally fittered duplexes require feeder tails.

Options*

0= No Options

D= Diagnostics - [DIAGS/D, DIAGS/DH, DIAGS/E or DIAGS/EH] (D & E Series Only)

H= Extended Temp Option [HITEMP]

N= Remote Fitted into NEMA Enclosure [NEMA 4/R]

F= Full Duplex Operation [ERFD450] (ER450 only)

X= Full Duplex Operation [ERFD450 & DIAGS/E] (ER450 only)

RF Channel Data Rate & Bandwidth (Internal Modem

)

D Series E Series

A01 = ACA 4800bps in 12.5kHz A01 = ACA 4800

/ 9600bps in 12.5Hz 001 = 12.5kHz (No Modem Fitted)

A02 = ACA 9600bps in 25kHz A02 = ACA 9600

/ 19k2bps in 25kHz 002 = 25kHz (No Modem Fitted)

F01 = FCC 9600bps in 12.5kHz F01 = FCC 9600

/ 9600bps in 12.5kHz 241 = 2400bps in 12.5kHz [24SR]*

F02 = FCC 19k2bps in 25kHz 242 = 2400bps in 25kHz [24SR]*

E01 = ETSI 9600bps in 12.5kHz 482 = 4800bps in 25kHz [48SR]*

E02 = ETSI 19k2bps in 25kHz

Frequency (200 & 400 MHz range) Frequency (900 MHz range) (D & S Series Only)

39 = 208 to 240MHz (Tx & Rx) 07 = (Tx) 847 to 857MHz (Rx) 923 to 933MHz (D Series only, 1W Full Duplex)

50 = 403 to 417MHz (Tx & Rx) 10 = (Tx) 848 to 858MHz (Rx) 920 to 934MHz

58 = (Tx) 406 to 421MHz (Rx) 415 to 430MHz 06 = (Tx) 923 to 933MHz (Rx) 847 to 857MHz (D Series only, 1W Full Duplex)

59 = (Tx) 415 to 430MHz (Rx) 406 to 421MHz 11 = (Tx) 920 to 934MHz (Rx) 848 to 858MHz

56 = 418 to 435MHz (Tx & Rx) 12 = 855 to 860MHz (Tx & Rx)

57 = 428 to 443MHz (Tx & Rx) 14 = (Tx) 925 to 943MHz (Rx) 906 to 924MHz

55 = 436 to 450MHz (Tx & Rx) 15 = (Tx) 904 to 922MHz (Rx) 925 to 943MHz

51 = 450 to 465MHz (Tx & Rx) 16 = 924 to 944MHz (Tx & Rx)

52 = 465 to 480MHz (Tx & Rx)

53 = 480 to 494MHz (Tx & Rx) Note: Other frequency bands available upon request.

54 = 505 to 518MHz (Tx & Rx)

27 = (Tx) 511 to 515MHz (Rx) 501 to 505MHz

48 = 395 to 406MHz (Tx & Rx)

Generic Frequency Band

200 = 208 to 245MHz (D & S Series only) NOTES:

450 = 400 to 518MHz (E & S Series only) * Additional charges apply. Must be ordered seperately. Please refer to price list.

900 = 800 to 960MHz (D & S Series only)

Provides compatibility with D Series radio

Items in [ ] parenthesis refer to actual Trio part numbers

Unit Type

R= Remote Station

B= Base / Repeater Station Standards: ACA - Australian Communications Authority

S= Standard Base / Repeater Station (D Series Only) FCC - Federal Communications Commission

H= Hot Standby Base / Repeater (D & E Series Only) ETSI - European Telcommunication Standards Institute

Model Type

D= D Series Family

E= E Series Family

S= S Series Famil

Example:

E R 450-51 A02-D0

The above example specifies: E Series, Remote Radio, generic 450MHz band, with a specific frequency of 450MHz to 465MHz,

a 96/19.2kbps modem, with a bandwidth of 25kHz, diagnostics and standard N type connector.

Version: 11/02

S Series

Page 7

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part B  E Series Overview

Part Number Description

Duplexers

DUPLX450BR Duplexer BAND REJECT 400-520 MHz for use

with Base / Repeater / Links. For Tx / Rx

frequency splits >9MHz. (Fitted Externally for a

Link, Intenally or Externally for Base / Repeater)

DUPLX450BR/5 Duplexer BAND REJECT 400-520 MHz for use

with Base / Repeater / Links. For Tx / Rx

frequency splits <9MHz. (Fitted Externally for a

Link, Intenally or Externally for Base / Repeater)

DUPLX450BP Duplexer PSEUDO BAND PASS Cavity 400-

520 MHz for External use with Base / Repeater

/ Links.

Notes:

1. Frequencies must be specified at time of order.

2. Interconnecting (Feeder Tail) cables must be ordered

separately for Externally fitted Duplexers.

Antennas

ANT450/9A Antenna Yagi 6 Element 9dBd Aluminium 400-

520 MHz c/w mtg clamps

ANT450/9S Antenna Yagi 6 Element 9dBd S/Steel 400-520

MHz c/w mtg clamps

ANT450/13A Antenna Yagi15 Element 13dBd Aluminium 400-

520 MHz c/w mtg clamps.

ANT450/13S Antenna Yagi 15 Element 13dBd S/Steel 400-

520 MHz c/w mtg clamps.

ANTOMNI/4 Antenna Omni-directional Unity Gain Side

Mount Dipole 400-520 MHz c/w galv. clamp

ANT450/D Antenna Omni-directional Unity Gain Ground

Independant Dipole 400-520 MHz c/w 3m

cable, mounting bracket & BNC connector

ANT450/6OM Antenna Omni-directional 6dBd 400-520 MHz

c/w mtg clamps

ANT450/9OM Antenna Omni-directional 9dBd 400-520 MHz c/

w mtg clamps

Note:

1. Frequencies must be specified at time of order.

Power Supplies

PS13V82A Power Supply 13.8V 2A 240VAC

PS13V810A Power Supply Switch Mode 240VAC 13.8V 10A

for Base Stations – Battery Charge Capability

Part Number Description

RF Cables and Accessories

NM/NM/TL Feeder Tail - N Male to N Type Male 50cm fully

sweep tested

NM/NM/TLL Feeder Tail - N Male to N Type Male 1 metre

fully sweep tested

RFCAB5M 5.0m RG-58 type Antenna Feeder Cable

terminated with N type Male Connectors

RFCAB5M2 5.0m RG-213 type Antenna Feeder Cable

terminated with N type Male Connectors

RFCAB10M 10.0m RG-213 type Antenna Feeder Cable

terminated with N type Male Connectors

RFCAB20M 20.0m RG-213 type Antenna Feeder Cable

terminated with N type Male Connectors

RFCAB20M4 20.0m LDF4-50 type (1/2" foam dialectric)

Antenna Feeder Cable terminated with N type

Male Connectors

LGHTARRST Lightning Surge Arrestor In-line N Female to N

Female

Multiplexers

95MSR/6 Multiplexer/Stream Router – 6 Port with RS-232

I/faces and Manual

95MSR/9 Multiplexer/Stream Router – 9 Port with RS-232

I/faces and Manual

Network Management Diagnostics

DIAGS/E Network Management and Remote Diagnostics

Facilities per Radio – E Series

DIAGS/EH Network Management and Remote Diagnostics

Facilities – E Series for EH450

Software

TVIEW+ Configuration, Network Management and

Remote Diagnostics Software

Other

NEMA 4 /R Stainless Steel Enclosure for Remote Site

Equipment.Size 600mm (h) x 600mm (d) x

580mm (w) – Room for Third Party RTU / PLC

equip. (Approx. 400(h) x 600(d) x 580mm(w)

HITEMP Extended Temperature Option for S, D and E

Series Radios -30 to +70C

EDOVM Digital Order Wire Voice Module

ERFD450 ER450…. Conversion to Full Duplex Operation

(N Type – Tx Port, SMA - Type Rx Port)

Note: Requires external duplexer

ERFDTRAY 19" Rack Tray for Mounting of ER450 Full Duplex

Radio and External Band Reject Duplexer

Standard Accessories

Page 8

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part C  Applications

Generic Connectivity

The E Series has been designed for SCADA and telemetry

applications, and any other applications that use an ASCII

communications protocol, and which connect physically using the

RS232 interface standard (although converters can be used to

adapt other interfaces such as RS422/485, RS530/V35, G703 etc).

Any protocol that can be displayed using a PC based terminal

program operating via a serial comm port is suitable for

transmission by the E Series radio modems.

An ASCII protocol is any that consists of message strings formed

from ASCII characters, that being defined as a 10 or 11 bit block

including start and stop bits, 7 or 8 data bits and optional parity

bit(s). Port set-up dialog that includes the expressions “N,8,1”, or

E,7,2” or similar indicate an ASCII protocol.

Most of the dominant telemetry industry suppliers utilise proprietary

ASCII protocols, and also common “open standard” industry

protocols such as DNP3, MODBUS, TCP/IP, and PPP. These are

all ASCII. based protocols.

Industries and Applications

The E Series products are widely used in point-to-point and point-

to-multipoint (multiple access) applications for remote

interconnection of PLC’s, RTU’s, dataloggers, and other data

monitoring and control devices including specialist utility devices

(such as powerline ACR’s). In addition, other applications such as

area wide security and alarm systems, public information systems

(traffic flow and public signage systems) and environmental

monitoring systems.

Application Detail

SCADA Systems

This is where one or more centralised control sites are used to

monitor and control remote field devices over wide areas.

Examples include regional utilities monitoring and controlling

networks over entire shires or a greater city metropolis’. Industry

sectors include energy utilities (gas and electricity distribution),

water and sewerage utilities, and catchment and environment

groups (rivers, dams, and catchment management authorities).

Telemetry Systems

Dedicated telemetry control systems interconnecting sequential

devices where cabling is not practical or distances are

considerable.

Examples include ore conveyor or slurry pipeline systems, simple

water systems (pump and reservoir interlinking), broadcast industry

(linking studio to transmitter) etc.

Information Systems

Public Information systems such as freeway vehicle flow and travel

time monitoring, and feedback signage, parking signage systems,

meteorological stations etc.

Page 9

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part C  Applications

Systems Architecture

Point-to-Point

This simple system architecture provides a virtual connection

between the two points, similar to a cable. Dependant of the

hardware chosen, it is possible to provide a full duplex connection

(i.e. data transfer in both directions simultaneously) if required.

Point-to-Multipoint Systems

In a multiple access radio system, messages can be broadcast

from one (master) site to all others, using a half duplex radio

system, or from any site to all others, using a simplex radio

channel.

Half duplex systems often utilise a full duplex master, to make the

system simpler, and to operate faster.

In either case, it will be necessary for the application to support an

addressing system, since the master needs to be able to select

which remote device it wishes to communicate to. Normally, the

radio system is allowed to operate “transparently”, allowing the

application’s protocol to provide the addressing, and thus control

the traffic. Where the application layer does not provide the

addressing, the E Series can provide it using SID codes™. (See

Part F - Operational Features)

Page 10

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part C  Applications

Digipeater Systems

This configuration is used where all sites are required to

communicate via a repeater site. A repeater site is used because it

has a position and/or height advantage and thus provides superior

or extended RF coverage. The radio modem at the repeater does

not have to be physically connected to the application’s master

site. Information from the application’s master is transmitted to the

repeater via radio, and the repeater then relays this information to

the other field sites. In this scenario, the repeater is the master

from an RF point of view, and the application master is effectively a

“remote” from an RF point of view, even though it is controlling the

data transfer on the system.

Store and Forward Systems

Store and forward is used as a way of extending RF coverage by

repeating data messages from one site to another.

This can be done globally using the inbuilt data repeating functions, or

selectively using intelligent address based routing features available in

some PLC/RTU protocols.

In this case it is necessary for all units on the system to operate in

half duplex mode (only key-up when transmitting data), so that

each site is free to hear received signals from more than one

source.

Page 11

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Understanding RF Path

Requirements

A radio modem needs a minimum amount of received RF signal to

operate reliably and provide adequate data throughput.

In most cases, spectrum regulatory authorities will also define or

limit the amount of signal that can be transmitted, and the

transmitted power will decay with distance and other factors, as it

moves away from the transmitting antenna.

It follows, therefore, that for a given transmission level, there will be

a finite distance at which a receiver can operate reliably with

respect to the transmitter.

Apart from signal loss due to distance, other factors that will decay

a signal include obstructions (hills, buildings, foliage), horizon

(effectively the bulge between two points on the earth), and (to a

minimal extent at UHF frequencies) factors such as fog, heavy

rain-bursts, dust storms, etc.

In order to ascertain the available RF coverage from a transmitting

station, it will be necessary to consider these factors. This can be

done in a number of ways, including

(a) using basic formulas to calculate the theoretically

available signal - allowing only for free space loss due to

distance,

(b) using sophisticated software to build earth terrain models

and apply other correction factors such as earth curvature

and the effects of obstructions, and

It is good design practice to consider the results of at least two of

these models to design a radio path.

Page 12

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Examples of Predictive Path

Modelling

Clear line of site

Radio path with good signal levels, attenuated only by free space

loss.

Obstructed Radio Path

This path has an obstruction that will seriously degrade the signal

arriving at the field site.

obstpath.p

Major Repeater Si

Field Si

Elevation (m

)

703.8

309.6

Latitud

030 43 55.92

030 56 24.00

Longitud

150 38 49.51

150 38 48.00

Azimu

180.10

0.10

Antenna Typ

ANT450/6OM

ANT450/9A

Antenna Height (m

)

40.00

5.00

Antenna Gain (dB

8.1

11.1

Antenna Gain (dBd

)

6.00

9.00

TX Line Typ

LDF4-5

TX Line Length (m

)

40.00

5.00

TX Line Unit Loss (dB/100 m

)

6.7

TX Line Loss (dB

)

2.72

0.34

Connector Loss (dB

)

2.0

Frequency (MH

450.0

Path Length (km

)

23.0

Free Space Loss (dB

)

112.78

Diffraction Loss (dB

)

16.7

Net Path Loss (dB

)

117.25

Radio Type Mod

EB45

ER45

TX Power (watt

5.00

1.00

TX Power (dBW

)

6.9

0.0

ffective Radiated Power (watt

6.7

4.6

ffective Radiated Power (dBW

)

8.27

6.66

RX Sensitivity Level (uv

)

0.7

1.2

RX Sensitivity Level (dBW

)

-140.0

-135.0

RX Signal (uv

)

9.70

21.70

RX Signal (dBW

)

-117.2

-110.2

RX Field Strength (uv/m

)

95.7

115.2

Fade Margin (dB

)

22.75

24.74

Raleigh Service Probability (%

)

99.47

99.66

goodpath.p

Major Repeater Si

Field Si

Elevation (m

)

756.6

309.6

Latitud

031 04 37.49

030 56 24.00

Longitud

150 57 26.34

150 38 48.00

Azimu

297.05

117.21

Antenna Typ

ANT450/6OM

ANT450/9A

Antenna Height (m

)

40.00

5.00

Antenna Gain (dB

8.1

11.1

Antenna Gain (dBd

)

6.00

9.00

TX Line Typ

LDF4-5

TX Line Length (m

)

40.00

5.00

TX Line Unit Loss (dB/100 m

)

6.7

TX Line Loss (dB

)

2.72

0.34

Connector Loss (dB

)

2.0

Frequency (MH

450.0

Path Length (km

)

33.3

Free Space Loss (dB

)

115.99

Diffraction Loss (dB

)

0.0

Net Path Loss (dB

)

103.75

Radio Type Mod

EB45

ER45

TX Power (watt

5.00

1.00

TX Power (dBW

)

6.9

0.0

ffective Radiated Power (watt

6.7

4.6

ffective Radiated Power (dBW

)

8.27

6.66

RX Sensitivity Level (uv

)

0.7

1.2

RX Sensitivity Level (dBW

)

-140.0

-135.0

RX Signal (uv

)

45.93

102.70

RX Signal (dBW

)

-103.7

-96.7

RX Field Strength (uv/m

)

453.1

545.4

Fade Margin (dB

)

36.25

38.24

Raleigh Service Probability (%

)

99.97

99.98

Page 13

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Effect of Earth Curvature on Long Paths

This path requires greater mast height to offset the earth curvature

experienced at such a distance (73km).

longpath.pl

Repeater Si

Far Field Si

Elevation (m

)

221.2

75.5

Latitud

032 01 21.63

032 33 00.00

Longitud

142 15 19.26

141 47 00.00

Azimu

217.1

37.3

Antenna Typ

ANT450/6OM

ANT450/9A

Antenna Height (m

)

40.0

5.0

Antenna Gain (dB

8.1

11.1

Antenna Gain (dBd

)

6.00

9.00

TX Line Typ

LDF4-5

TX Line Length (m

)

40.0

5.0

6.7

TX Line Loss (dB

)

2.72

0.34

Connector Loss (dB

)

2.0

Frequency (MH

450.0

Path Length (km

)

73.4

Free Space Loss (dB

)

122.8

Diffraction Loss (dB

)

22.9

Net Path Loss (dB

)

133.55

Radio Type Mod

EB45

ER45

TX Power (watt

5.0

1.0

TX Power (dBW

)

6.9

0.0

ffective Radiated Power (watt

6.7

4.6

ffective Radiated Power (dBW

)

8.2

6.6

RX Sensitivity Level (uv

)

0.71

1.26

RX Sensitivity Level (dBW

)

-140.0

-135.0

RX Signal (uv

)

1.4

3.3

RX Signal (dBW

)

-133.5

-126.5

RX Field Strength (uv/m

)

14.65

17.64

Fade Margin (dB

)

6.4

8.4

Raleigh Service Probability (%

)

79.735

86.656

Page 14

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Antenna Gain

By compressing the transmission energy into a disc or beam, the

antenna provides more energy (a stronger signal) in that direction,

and thus is said to have a performance “gain” over a basic omni

antenna. Gain is usually expressed in dBd, which is referenced to

a standard folded dipole. Gain can also be expressed in dBi, which

is referenced to a theoretical “isotropic” radiator. Either way, if you

intend to send and receive signals from a single direction, there is

advantage in using a directional antenna - both due to the

increased signal in the wanted direction, and the relatively

decreased signal in the unwanted direction (i.e. “interference

rejection” properties).

Tuning the Antenna

Many antennas are manufactured for use over a wide frequency

range. Typical fixed use antennas such as folded dipoles and yagis

are generally supplied with the quoted gain available over the

entire specified band range, and do not require tuning. Co-linear

antennas are normally built to a specific frequency specified when

ordering.

With mobile “whip” type antennas, it is sometimes necessary to

“tune” the antenna for the best performance on the required

frequency. This is usually done by trimming an antenna element

whilst measuring VSWR, or simply trimming to a manufacturer

supplied chart showing length vs frequency. These antennas would

normally be supplied with the tuning information provided.

Antenna Placement

When mounting the antenna, it is necessary to consider the

following criteria:

The mounting structure will need to be solid enough to withstand

additional loading on the antenna mount due to extreme wind, ice

or snow (and in some cases large birds).

For omni directional antennas, it is necessary to consider the effect

of the mounting structure (tower mast or building) on the radiation

pattern. Close in structures, particularly steel structures, can alter

the radiation pattern of the antenna. Where possible, omni

antennas should always be mounted on the top of the mast or pole

to minimise this effect. If this is not possible, mount the antenna on

a horizontal outrigger to get it at least 1-2m away from the

structure. When mounting on buildings, a small mast or pole (2-4m)

can significantly improve the radiation pattern by providing

clearance from the building structure.

For directional antennas, it is generally only necessary to consider

the structure in relation to the forward radiation pattern of the

antenna, unless the structure is metallic, and of a solid nature. In

this case it is also prudent to position the antenna as far away from

the structure as is practical. With directional antennas, it is also

necessary to ensure that the antenna cannot move in such a way

that the directional beamwidth will be affected. For long yagi

antennas, it is often necessary to instal a fibreglass strut to

stablilise the antenna under windy conditions.

Alignment of Directional Antennas

This is generally performed by altering the alignment of the

antenna whilst measuring the received signal strength. If the signal

is weak, it may be necessary to pre-align the antenna using a

compass, GPS, or visual or map guidance in order to “find” the

wanted signal. Yagi antennas have a number of lower gain “lobes”

centred around the primary lobe. When aligning for best signal

strength, it is important to scan the antenna through at least 90

degrees, to ensure that the centre (strongest) lobe is identified.

When aligning a directional antenna, avoid placing your hands or

body in the vicinity of the radiating element or the forward beam

pattern, as this will affect the performance of the antenna.

Selecting Antennas

There are basically two types of antennas – omni directional, and

directional.

Omni directional antennas are designed to radiate signal in a 360

degrees segment around the antenna. Basic short range antennas

such as folded dipoles and ground independent whips are used to

radiate the signal in a “ball” shaped pattern. High gain omni

antennas such as the “co-linear” compress the sphere of energy

into the horizontal plane, providing a relatively flat “disc” shaped

pattern which goes further because all of the energy is radiated in

the horizontal plane.

Directional antennas are designed to concentrate the signal into

“beam” of energy for transmission in a single direction (ie for point-

to-point or remote to base applications).

Beamwidths vary according to the antenna type, and so can be

selected to suit design requirements. The most common UHF

directional antenna is the yagi, which offers useable beam widths

of 30-50 degrees. Even higher “gain” is available using parabolic

“dish” type antennas such as gridpacks.

Page 15

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Common Cable Types Loss per meter Loss per 10m

@ 450MHz @ 450MHz

RG58C/U 0.4426dB 4.4dB

RG213/U 0.1639dB 1.6dB

FSJ1-50 (¼” superflex) 0.1475dB 1.5dB

LDF4-50 (1/2” heliax) 0.0525dB 0.52dB

LDF5-50 (7/8” heliax) 0.0262dB 0.3dB

Data Connectivity

The V24 Standard

The E Series radio modems provide two asynchronous V24

compliant RS232 ports for connection to serial data devices.

There are two types of RS232 interfaces – DTE and DCE.

DTE stands for data terminal equipment and is generally applied to

any intelligent device that has a need to communicate to another

device via RS232. For example: P.C. Comm ports are always DTE,

as are most PLC and RTU serial ports.

DCE stands for data communication equipment and is generally

applied to a device used for sending data over some medium

(wires, radio, fibre etc), i.e. any MODEM.

The standard interface between a DTE and DCE device (using the

same connector type) is a straight through cable (ie each pin

connects to the same numbered corresponding pin at the other end

of the cable).

The “V24” definition originally specified the DB25 connector

standard, but this has been complicated by the emergence of the

DB9 (pseudo) standard for asynch devices, and this connector

standard has different pin assignments.

The wiring standard is “unbalanced”, and provides for three basic

data transfer wires (TXD, RXD, and SG – signal ground).

Hardware Handshaking

Hardware handshake lines are also employed to provide flow

control, however (in the telemetry industry) many devices do not

always support all (or any) flow control lines.

For this reason, the E Series modems can be configured for full

hardware flow control, or no flow control at all (simple 3 wire

interface).

Note: that when connecting devices together with differing

handshake implementations, it is sometimes necessary to “loop”

handshake pins in order to fool the devices handshaking

requirements.

In telemetry applications (particularly where port speeds can be set

to the same rate as the radio systems over-air rate) then flow

control, and therefore handshaking, is usually NOT required. It

follows that any devices that CAN be configured for “no flow

control” should be used in this mode to simplify cabling

requirements.

Handshaking lines can generally be looped as follows:

DTE (terminal) – loop RTS to CTS, and DTR to DSR and DCE.

DCE (modem) - loop DSR to DTR and RTS (note-not required for

E Series modem when set for no handshaking).

RF Feeders and Protection

The antenna is connected to the radio modem by way of an RF

feeder. In choosing the feeder type, one must compromise

between the loss caused by the feeder, and the cost, flexibility, and

bulk of lower loss feeders. To do this, it is often prudent to perform

path analysis first, in order to determine how much “spare” signal

can be allowed to be lost in the feeder. The feeder is also a critical

part of the lightning protection system.

All elevated antennas may be exposed to induced or direct

lightning strikes, and correct grounding of the feeder and mast are

an essential part of this process. Gas discharge lightning arresters

should also be fitted to any site that stands elevated or alone,

particularly in rural areas.

Page 16

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Cable Wiring Diagrams

Page 17

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

RS232 Connector Pin outs (DCE)

Port A and B, Female DB9

Cable Wiring Diagrams

Page 18

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part D  System Planning and Design

Power Supply and Environmental

Considerations

General

When mounting the equipment, consideration should be given to

the environmental aspects of the site. The cabinet should be

positioned so that it is shaded from hot afternoon sun, or icy cold

wind. Whilst the radios are designed for harsh temperature

extremes, they will give a longer service life if operated in a more

stable temperature environment. In an industrial environment, the

radio modems should be isolated from excessive vibration, which

can destroy electronic components, joints, and crystals.

The cabinet should provide full protection from moisture, dust,

corrosive atmospheres, and other aspects such as ants and small

vermin (who’s residues can be corrosive or conductive). The radio

modem will radiate heat from the in-built heatsink, and the higher

the transmitter duty cycle, the more heat will be radiated from the

heatsink. Ensure there is sufficient ventilation in the form of

passive or forced air circulation to ensure that the radio is able to

maintain quoted temperature limits.

Power Supply

The power supply should provide a clean, filtered DC source. The

radio modem is designed and calibrated to operate from a

13.8VDC regulated supply, but will operate from 10-15 volts

(filtered) DC.

The power supply must be able to supply sufficient current to

provide clean filtered DC under the full current conditions of the

radio modem (ie when transmitting full RF power). The current

requirement is typically 120mA (230mA for EB450) in receive

mode, and will vary in transmit mode according to RF output power

level (typically 0.5-1.5 amps, 1.3-2.5 amps for EB450).

Solar Applications

In solar or battery-backed installations, a battery management unit

should be fitted to cut off power to the radio when battery levels fall

below the minimum voltage specification of the radio. In solar

applications, a solar regulation unit MUST ALSO be fitted to ensure

that the radio (and battery) is protected from excessive voltage

under full sun conditions.

When calculating solar and battery capacity requirements, the

constant current consumption will be approximately equal to the

transmit current multiplied by the duty cycle of the transmitter, plus

the receive current multiplied by the (remaining) duty cycle of the

receiver.

The Tx/Rx duty cycle will be entirely dependent on the amount of

data being transmitted by the radio modem, unless the device has

been configured for continuous transmit, in which case the

constant current consumption will be equal to the transmit current

only (at 100% duty cycle).

Site Earthing

The radio must not be allowed to provide a ground path from

chassis to (DB9) signal ground or (-) battery ground. Ensure that

the chassis mounting plate, power supply (-) earth, RTU terminal

device, and lightning arrester (if fitted), are all securely earthed to a

common ground point to which an earth stake is attached. Please

pay particular attention to 24VDC PLC systems using DC-DC

converters to supply 13.8Vdc.

Caution: There is NO internal replaceable fuse, and

therefore the radio modem MUST be externally fused with

the fuse holder provided (ER450: 3 amp slo-blow fuse,

EB450: 5 amp fast-blow fuse).

Page 19

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Physical Dimensions of the Remote Data Radio - ER450

Page 20

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Physical Dimensions of the Base Station - EB450

Page 21

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Physical Dimensions of the Hot Standby Base Station - EH450

Page 22

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started - ER450

Part E  Getting Started

ER450 Quick Start Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the ER450 Quick Start Guide. This guide provides

step-by-step instructions, with simple explanations to get you up-

and-running.

Mounting and Environmental

Considerations

The ER450 radio comes complete with a mounting cradle and is

attached to a panel or tray by means of screws or bolts, using the hole

slots provided.

Note: In high power or high temperature applications, it is desirable to

mount the radio with the heatsink uppermost to allow ventalation for

the heatsink.

The radio should be mounted in a clean and dry location, protected

from water, excessive dust, corrosive fumes, extremes of

temperature and direct sunlight. Please allow sufficient passive or

active ventilation to allow the radio modem’s heatsink to operate

efficiently.

Typical Radio Setup

Page 23

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started - ER450

ER450 Connections Layout

Connecting Antennas and RF Feeders

The RF antenna system should be installed in accordance with the

manufacturers notes.

The RF connector used on the E Series radios are N Type female

connectors. Always use good quality low loss feeder cable,

selected according to the length of the cable run. Ensure all

external connections are waterproofed using amalgamating tape.

Preset directional antennas in the required direction using a

compass, GPS, or visual alignment and ensure correct polarisation

(vertical or horizontal).

Communications Ports

System Port  RJ45

The System Port (available front and rear on EB/EH450) is a multi-

function interface used for:

• Programming / Configuration of the radio

• Remote Diagnostics connections

To access these functions use the standard E Series System Cable

assembly (RJ45 Cable and RJ45 to DB9 Adaptor).

System Port pinout assignments:

Pin 1 System port data out (RS232)

Pin 2 System port data in (RS232)

Pin 3 Not used

Pin 4 Shutdown

Pin 5 Not used

Pin 6 Not used

Pin 7 Ground

Pin 8 External PTT

Special user pinouts:

• Shutdown (Pin 4) - Active low for power save function

• External PTT (Pin 8) - Provides a manual PTT override

facility for enabling the transmitter. For testing this can be

activated by connecting PTT (Pin 8 ) to Gnd (Pin 7).

Page 24

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started - ER450

User Interfaces  Ports A & B

Each user port (A & B) is wired as a RS232 DCE, configurable for no

handshaking (3-wire) interface, or for hardware or software (X-on/X-off)

flow control. In most systems flow control is not required, in which

case only 3 wires need to be connected between the radio and the

application device.

Typical pins used:

• Pin 2 (RxD) - data output from the radio modem,

• Pin 3 (TxD) - data input to the radio modem,

• Pin 5 (SG) - signal ground.

See Part D – System Planning and Design - Data Connectivity, for

further details of other cable configurations.

RS232 Connector Pin outs (DCE)

Port A and B, Female DB9

Activating the Transmitter

In most systems, the transmitter by default is controlled

automatically by the radio when it has data to transmit.

In some systems, such as full duplex point-to-point links or full

duplex point-to-multipoint base stations, it is desirable to run the

transmitter all the time (hot keyed).

Two mechanisms are provided to do this:

• the radio modem can be configured to transmit continuously

whenever powered, or

• the radio modem can be configured to transmit whenever an

external RTS signal (Pin 7) is applied to one (or either) user

ports. (To simulate an external RTS input, loop pins 6 to 7).

To operate in these modes, the radio must be configured via the

programming software.

Caution: When the radio is configured to transmit

continuously, ensure an RF load is present BEFORE

applying power to the unit.

Page 25

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started- ER450

Power Supply Requirements

The E Series radio modem is designed and calibrated to operate from

a filtered 13.8Vdc regulated supply, but will operate from a 10-16Vdc

(11-16Vdc for EB450 & EH450) range.

The current requirement is typically 120mA (230mA for EB450) in

receive mode, and will vary in transmit mode according to RF

output power level (typically: ER450 0.5-1.5 amps, EB450 1.3-2.5

amps, EH450 2-3.2 amps).

Caution: There is NO internal replaceable fuse, and therefore

the radio modem MUST be externally fused with the fuse

holder provided (ER450: 3 amp slo-blow fuse, EB450: 5

amp fast-blow fuse).

The radio is designed to self protect, and will blow the external

fuse if the voltage exceeds 16Vdc, or if reverse polarity is applied.

The radio modem can also be damaged if there is any potential

difference between the chassis-ground, RS232 signal ground,

power (-) input, or antenna coaxial shield. Before connecting any

wiring, ensure all components are earthed to a common ground

point (please pay particular attention to 24V PLC power systems

where converters are used).

Connect the antenna and RS 232 plugs BEFORE applying power

to the unit.

Lastly, before inserting the power plug, please re-check that the

polarity and voltage on the power plug is correct using a

multimeter.

TVIEW+ Management Suite

Radio Configuration

This TVIEW+ Management Suite allows a number of features

including: Configuration (Local - serial, or Remote - over-the-air),

Remote Diagnostics Facilities and Firmware Upgrades.

The configuration wizard can be used to provide Quick Start

generic templates for the types of systems architecture you wish to

employ.

Example: Local configuration session –

1 Attach the programming cable from the PC to the System

Port of the radio

2 Launch TVIEW+ & Select “Programmer”

3 Select “Read” the radio

4 Change the configuration as required

5 Select “Write” the parameters back to the radio

Refer to Parts I & J – TVIEW+ Management Suite for detailed

operation of advanced features.

Page 26

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started- ER450

Optimising the Antenna for VSWR and

best RX signal

Once the unit is operational, it is important to optimise the antenna

tuning.

In the case of a directional antenna, it will be necessary to align the

antenna for the best received signal.

This can be done by using the (0-5Vdc) output on Pin 9 of Port B to

indicate signal strength (RSSI). This voltage can be converted to

dBm using the chart below.

VSWR testing is achieved by activating the radio’s transmitter

using:

a) An RTS loop

b) A system port PTT plug

See Part G - Commissioning for further details.

LED Indicators & Test Outputs

Radio is Powered

If all the LEDs are off, no power is reaching the radio modem.

Successful power-up is indicated by the “PWR” LED indicating a

continuous (healthy) GREEN state. Note that this LED is turned

RED when the transmitter is active.

Voltage Error

If the voltage is too high(>16Vdc) or too low(<10Vdc), an error

message will be displayed on the staus LED’s by illuminating all four

LED’s RED.

Hardware Error

A hardware error is indicated on any one of the status LED’s by

illuminating solid RED. In the case of a hardware error, the unit must

be returned to the service point for repair. Record the result with the

service return information.

LED Legend

Analog RSSI Output Characteristics - E Series Data Radio

0.5

1.5

2.5

3.5

4.5

-120

-110

-100

-90

-80

-70

-60

-50

-40

RF Level (dBm)

RSSI (DC Volts

)

Page 27

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started- ER450

Received Signal Indicator

The “RX/SYNC” LED is used to indicate 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 no

data stream can be decoded. This will briefly happen at the very start

of every valid received transmission or may indicate the presence of

interference, or another user on the channel.

A continuous GREEN indication shows that the modem is locked and

synchronised to the incoming signal, and has excellent Bit Error

Rate (BER). Any losses of synchronisation (BER errors) are shown

as a visible RED flicker of the LED.

Note: This might only be apparent on a PTMP slave when only

receiving.

Verifying Operational Health

It is possible to verify the operation of the radio modem using the

indicators provided by the unit. The state of the transmitter and

receiver, and data flow can be interpreted by the indicator LEDs (see

below).

Note: Port A and Port B’s RxD and TxD will be Active on Data Flow

Data Flow breakout LEDs

There are also two LEDs to indicate data flow into and out of the two

user ports.

Input data to be transmitted is shown as a RED flash, and received

data to be output to the port is shown as a GREEN flash.

If data is alternately flowing in and out quickly, then the indicator

appears orange.

Full Duplex – PTMP Master Tx

Half Duplex – Master or Slave (Tx)

Half Duplex – PTMP Slave Rx

Half Duplex – Master or Slave (Rx)

Full Duplex – PTP Master or Slave

LED Legend

Page 28

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started - EB450

EB450 Quick Start Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Quick Start Guide for the EB450 Base / Repeater

Data Radio. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, with

simple explanations to get you up-and-running.

Mounting and Environmental

Considerations

The EB450 Base Station is housed in a 2RU 19” rack enclosure.

The 4 mounting holes on the front panel should be used to secure

the unit to the rack.

The radio should be mounted in a clean and dry location, protected

from water, excessive dust, corrosive fumes, extremes of

temperature and direct sunlight. Please allow sufficient passive or

active ventilation to allow the radio modem’s heatsink to operate

efficiently.

All permanent connections are made at the rear of the unit. This

includes: Power, Antenna, Communications Ports, Digital I/O and

System Port. The front panel has an additional System Port

connection point for easy access.

Full Duplex Considerations

The EB450 is designed for continuous full duplex transmission. An

automatic thermostatically controlled fan will operate whenever the

internal temperature exceeds 50 degrees Celsius.

External Duplexer Considerations

The EB450 is normally supplied with seperate Tx and Rx ports for

connection to an external duplexing system.

Depending on the frequency band of operation and the Tx/Rx

frequency split, internal band reject duplexers are available.

Page 29

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part E  Getting Started - EB450

Connecting Antennas and RF Feeders

See ER450 Quick Start Guide

Communications Ports

See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section

Power Supply and Protection

See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section

TVIEW+ Management Suite - Radio

Configuration

See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section

Optimising the Antenna for VSWR and

best RX signal

See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section

LED Indicators & Test outputs

Radio is Powered

If all the LEDs are off, no power is reaching the radio modem.

Successful power-up is indicated by the “PWR” LED indicating a

continuous (healthy) GREEN state. Note that this LED is turned

RED when the transmitter is active.

Typical Radio Setup

LED Legend

Page 30

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Bar Graph Indicators

The bar graph indicators on the front panel provide variable

information regarding the performance of the Base Station. To

enable / disable the bar graph display depress the Display ON /

OFF button. The display will turn off automatically after 5 minutes.

DC Supply:

Indicates the supply input voltage at the exciter module. Typically

13.8Vdc.

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 antenna

port. Typically +37dBm.

Indication: <20dBm no LED’s on, 20-40.6dBm (11.5W) LED’s

GREEN, >=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 - EB450

Test Mode

The Bar Graph indicators have a Test Mode, which cycles all LED’s

for correct operation (before returning to their normal operation). To

activate this mode, simply depress the ON / OFF button while

applying power to the unit.

Voltage Error

If the voltage is too high(>16Vdc) or too low(<10Vdc), an error

message will be displayed on the status LED’s by illuminating all four

(4) LED’s RED.

Hardware Error

A hardware error is indicated on any one of the status LED’s bu

illuminating solid RED. In the case of a hardware error, the unit must

be returned to the service point for repair. Record the result with the

service return information.

Received Signal Indicator

The “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 no

data stream can be decoded. This will briefly happen at the very start

of every valid received transmission or may indicate the presence of

interference, or another user on the channel.

A continuous GREEN indication shows that the modem is locked and

synchronised to the incoming signal, and has excellent Bit Error

Rate (BER). Any losses of synchronisation (BER errors) are shown

as a visible RED flicker of the LED.

Note: This might only be apparent on a PTMP slave when only

receiving.

Data Flow breakout LEDs

There are also two LEDs to indicate data flow into and out of the

two user ports.

Input data to be transmitted is shown as a RED flash, and received

data to be output to the port is shown as a GREEN flash.

If data is aternately flowing in and out quickly, then the indicator

appears orange.

Page 31

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

EH450 Quick Start Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Quick Start Guide for the EH450 Hot Standby Base /

Repeater Station. This section provides additional step-by-step

instructions to install, commission and operate the EH450 Hot

Standby Base Station. This document should be read in conjunction

with 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 identical

EB450 base station units (standard) linked to a central, fail-safe

monitoring and change-over controller (Hot Standby Controller). Either

base station may be taken out for maintenance without the need for

any system down time. The automatic change-over is triggered by out

of tolerance (alarm) conditions based on either RF and/or user data

throughput paramaters.

Part E  Getting Started - EH450

Features and Benefits

• Individual and identical base stations with separate control logic

changeover panel

• Modules are hot swapable without user downtime

• Flexible antenna options – single, separate Tx & Rx, two Tx

and two Rx

• Increased sensitivity with receiver pre-amplifier

• Both on-line and off-line units monitored regardless of active

status

• External input for higher stability 10MHz reference – GPS

derived

• Also refer to the common Features and Benefits list of the E

Series Data Radio

Base / Repeater Unit

Hot Standby Controller Unit

Base / Repeater Unit

EH450 Hot Standby Base / Repeater Unit

NOTE: RF connectors not used or ETSI version Rear View

Page 32

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Operational Description

The Hot Standby Controller (HSC) unit is a 1RU rack mounted

module that interfaces to two physically separate base stations (each

2RU rack mounted modules) via a number of RF and data cables.

Both base stations are operating simultaneously and both units are

constantly receiving signals, however only data from one base

station, the “online” base station is directed to the user equipment. The

online 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 internal

duplexer fitted), TX Only.

• Amplify and split the incoming signal two ways so both base

stations receive at once.

• Monitor status reports from both base stations to identify faults

and swap over the online base station if required.

• Switch the antenna via internal coaxial relay duplexer to the

online base station transmitter and inhibit the offline base station

from transmitting.

• Switch the User A and B data ports through to the online base

station.

An optocoupler based switch in the base station controller directs data

to and from ports A and B on the rear panel directly to ports A and B on

the on-line base station without any involvement from the Hot Standby

controller microcontrollers (apart from selecting the on-line base). This

provides protection of the system from failure of the microcontroller.

As well as ports A and B, each base has a system port. The system

port of each base station is interfaced to the microcontroller on the Hot

Standby controller. This allows the microcontroller in charge of

selecting the base station to receive diagnostic messages from each

base station to decide their health.

The base station has it’s own system port on the rear panel and this is

interfaced to the Hot Standby Contruller Module. The HSC will route

diagnostics at the rear panel system port to and from the system ports

of the base stations.

Mounting and Environmental

Considerations

The EH450 Hot Standby Base Station is housed as a 5RU 19” rack

mounted set, encompassing 2 x 2RU Base Station units and 1 x 1RU

Hot Standby Controller unit. The mounting holes on the front panels

should be used to secure the units to the rack.

The unit should be mounted in a clean and dry location, protected from

water, excessive dust, corrosive fumes, extremes of temperature and

direct sunlight. Please allow sufficient passive or active ventilation to

allow the radio modem’s heatsink to operate efficiently.

All permanent connections are made at the rear of the unit. This

includes: Power, Antenna, Communications Ports, Digital I/O and

System Port. The front panel has an additional System Port

connection point for easy access.

The Base Station front panel system ports must not be used while in

this config.

Part E  Getting Started - EH450

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Communications Ports

The A & B Data Ports and System Ports of each Base Station

connect directly to the Hot Standby Controller units corresponding

ports with the cables provided. Ensure all clamping screws on the

Data Port cables are firmly secured and the System Port cables are

clipped in correctly. See figure below for further details.

Note: Only the front or rear User System Port can be used at any

one time on the HSC.

Power Supply and Protection

The EH450 has facilities for dual power supplies to provide for a

redundant system. A separate power supply should be used for each

of the Base Station units. The Hot Standby Controller unit has

connections for dual power supplies and it is recommended that the

power supplies from each of the Base Stations also be used to power

the 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 to

you application device and the System Port connects directly to your

local PC. See ER450 Quick Start Guide Section for further details.

Part E  Getting Started - EH450

Note: RF Connectors not used for ETSI version

Page 34

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Connecting Antennas and RF Feeders

There are 3 primary antenna connection options. All connectors used

are standard N Type sockets. See figures below for further details.

See ER450 Quick Start Guide for detailed wiring information.

Part E  Getting Started - EH450

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Front Panel Operation

Switches

Select Switch

The 3 position switch (1 / Auto / 2) on the front panel provides the

following functionality:

• Position 1: base station 1 is forced into operation

• Position Auto: changeover hardware will select the online base

station

• Position 2: base station 2 is forced into operation

The select switch is also used to identify the target base station for

configuration programming.

Adjacent to the select switch are two LEDs: These LEDs indicate the

current active base station.

Select LED’s

•Green - Auto Mode

•Red - Remote Force

•Amber - Local Force

2 Green Firmware Download

2 Amber Test Mode

2 Red Fatal Error - refer user manual

Reset Switch

This is a momentary close switch which when depressed will reset all

LED alarm indications.

System Port

There are two system port connection points, one on the rear panel

and one on the front panel. Both have the same functionality and can

be used for local diagnostics, firmware front panel downloads and hot

standby controller testing. To access the system port use the

diagnostic/programming cable supplied.

Note: Wnen connection is made to front panel system rear system

port is disabled.

Alarm Status LEDs

There are 10 alarm LEDs on the fron panel, five for base 1 and five for

base 2. These LEDs provide a general indication of base station

status. More detailed base station status information is available by

using the diagnostic utility software.

The indicated alarms for each base station are:

Freq. => Frequency Error

RxSig => Receive Signal (RF) Error

Data => Receive Data Error

TxPower => Transmit Power (RF) Error

Supply => DC Voltage Error

The status of each alarm is represented as follows:

Green => No Error

Red => Current (active) Error condition

Amber => Recovered Error condition

Any active or recovered error LEDs will turn to green after the reset

alarms switch has been pushed or remotely reset.

Part E  Getting Started - EH450

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part F - Operational Features

Multistream functionality (SID

codes)

The E Series sends data messages in packets. A feature of the E

Series is that an address can be embedded in each packet. This

address is called the stream identifier code (SID).

By configuring a user serial port for a specific SID code, it is

possible to steer messages to similarly configured ports between

radio modems. In effect, it is possible to use the multiple serial

ports available on the E Series, to enable multiple protocols to

share the same RF channel. The SID codes also facilitate the use

of other features such as TView diagnostics. Unique selective

routing, repeating, and data splitting functions available in the radio

modems configuration allow data steering and bandwidth

management in complex systems.

See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmer and Part J -

TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller for details.

Collision Avoidance (digital and

RFCD based)

Where multiple “un synchronised” protocols co-exist on a common

“multiple access” radio channel, there is always a possibility that

both “hosts” may poll different “remote” devices at the same time. If

both devices attempt to answer back to the single master radio at

the same time, it follows that a collision could occur on the radio

channel.

To facilitate the operation of multiple protocol operation on the

radio channel, a transparent collision management system has been

implemented : See Part I - TView+ Management Suite - Programmer

for details.

Digital Collision Avoidance System

If the “multiple access master” has been configured for full duplex

operation, it is possible to use the inbuilt collision avoidance signaling

system.

Once the master radio receives a valid incoming data stream from a

remote, a flag within the “outbound” data stream is used to alert all

other remote devices that the channel has become busy. Remote

devices wishing to send data will buffer the message until the channel

status flag indicates that the channel is clear. A pseudo-random timing

value is added to the retry facility to ensure that waiting remotes do not

retry at the same time.

RF Carrier Detect RSSI based Collision

Avoidance

In half duplex systems, the receiver’s RF carrier detect is used to

inhibit the transmitter whilst a signal is being received.

Digipeater Operation

A feature of the E Series radio modems is the ability to internally

repeat data packets to provide stand alone repeater facilities

without the need for external intelligence.

This is done by programming “SID Codes” to “Repeat” a stream or

range of streams. Wizard templates can be used to simplify setup

of this and other features.

See Part I - TVIEW+ Management Suite for details.

TVIEW+ Diagnostics

The E Series has an inbuilt remote configuration and diagnostics

utility.

This facility allows transparent remote access to the key

configuration and operating parameters of the radio.

See Part J - TView Remote Diagnostics and Network Controller for

details.

Part F  Operational Features

Page 37

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part G  Commissioning

Check DC power connector for correct voltage (10-16VDC) and

polarity, BEFORE plugging in the power connector.

Power-up

Upon power up, the radio will self test and shortly after the green

power LED will be displayed.

Failure of the power LED to light indicates no power, or failure of

the fuse due to incorrect polarity or over-voltage.

Other failure such as fatal internal errors will initiate error modes

indicated by a flashing sequence of all LEDS red, followed by one

or more green LED’s to indicate the nature of the failure (see Part E

– Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs).

LED Indicators

Will depend on the system architecture. If the device is a remote site

receiving a base station with a constant carrier, then the RXSIG/

SYNC LED should be green to indicate healthy reception of the

wanted signal.

If the site has been configured as a constantly transmitting base station,

then the PWR/TX LED should show red.

In other types of systems, TX and RX bursts would be indicated by

the RX or TX LED’s as above.

Data flow to and from the user ports is indicated by the TXD/RXD

LEDs for each port.

(See Part E – Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs.)

Data Transfer Indications

Bi-colour LEDs are provided to indicate RS232 data being

transmitted and received on each data port. A RED flash indicates

a byte (or bytes) of incoming data from the serial line which will be

transmitted to air, and a green flash indicates a byte of data

received “off air” being released onto the serial line.

If data is being sent to the radio modem and the Data LED does

not flash RED, this may indicate a wiring or configuration problem.

Check that the TX and RX data lines are correctly wired (see Part E

– Getting Started: LED Indicators and Test Outputs).

Also check that character set and parity settings (i.e. N,8,1 etc) are

set identically at the terminal and the radio modem. Note that some

incorrect settings of the character set parameter can still produce

transmittable data, even though the data will not be understood by

the application.

Antenna Alignment and RSSI

Testing

Once the RXSIG LED is lit, it is possible to confirm RX signal strength

and align a directional antenna by monitoring the RSSI output.

This DC voltage appears at Pin 9 of Port B.

A ground reference can be obtained from chassis ground or Pin 5 of

Port A or B.

The chart below shows Pin 9 voltage as it relates to signal strength.

Part G  Commissioning

Link Establishment and BER

Testing

Once communications has been established, it is possible to confirm

the packet error rate performance of the radio path, and thus estimate

the BER figure.

There are a number of tools provided to do this. The easiest is to use

the “indicative packet error test” provided within the TVIEW+

Diagnostics under “statistical performance tools”. Alternatively, it is

possible to use hyper terminal, or other packet test instruments or

PC programs to run end to end or perform “loopback” testing.

Please note that when using a “loopback plug” some understanding of

the packetising process is necessary, since each “test message’ must

be carried in a single packet for meaningful results to be obtained.

Note also that in PTMP systems, allowance must be made for

collision potential if other data is being exchanged on the system.

VSWR Testing

VSWR testing is achieved using specialized VSWR testing

equipment, or a “Thruline” power meter that measures forward and

reverse power.

VSWR is the ratio between forward and reflected transmitter

power, and indicates the health and tuning of the antenna and

feeder system.

VSWR should be better than 3 to 1, or expressed as a power ratio,

<6dB or no more than 25%. To activate the radios transmiter for

VSWR testing, use:

a) An RTS loop

b) A system port PTT plug

Analog RSSI Output Characteristics - E Series Data Radio

0.5

1.5

2.5

3.5

4.5

-120

-110

-100

-90

-80

-70

-60

-50

-40

RF Level (dBm)

RSSI (DC Volts

)

Page 38

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part H  Maintenance

Routine Maintenance

Considerations

The E Series hardware itself does not require routine maintenance.

However all radio products contain crystal frequency references,

and the stability of these crystals changes with time. The effect of

this is that the product will slowly drift off frequency, and eventually

it will require re-calibration. E Series radios are designed with high

quality, low drift specification references, to ensure a long

maintenance free lifespan. The length of this lifespan will depend

on the severity of temperature extremes in the operating

environment, but is normally 3–5 years. Extended frequency drift

can be detected using TVIEW+ Diagnostics “Freq error” parameter.

Generally, recalibration is achieved by replacing the radio in the

field with a spare, and returning the radio to a service centre for re-

calibration and specification testing at moderate cost.

Routine maintenance should be performed on external equipment

subject to greater environmental stresses including antennas, RF

feeder cables, backup batteries and cooling fans (if required). This

maintenance should include testing of site commissioning figures

such as received signal strength, VSWR, P/S voltage etc.

Part H  Maintenance

Page 39

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

SECTION 2

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite -

Programmer

Part J  TVIEW Remote Diagnostics and

Network Controller

Part K  Appendices

Part L - Support Options

SECTION 2  TVIEW+ Management Suite

Page 40

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite -

Programmer

Introduction

This manual covers the installation and operation of the E Series

TVIEW+ 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 radio

performance parameters

• Firmware Update for loading new firmware releases into the

radio data modem

All utilities can be run on any IBM compatible computer running

Windows 95® and above. This section describes use of the

programmer and firmware Update utilities in detail. Users should refer

to the separate Diagnostics section for information about this utility.

The programmer is used to set configuration parameters within the

ER450 data radio modem and EB450 base station. The utility permits

configuration of modems connected directly to the PC as well as over

the air to a remote unit. Configuration parameters can be saved to a

disk file for later retrieval, or used for clone programming of other

modems.

All configuration parameters are held in non-volatile memory

(NVRAM) on the Data Radio Modem. Configuration is fully

programmable via the Systems Port using the programming adaptor

and cable supplied. Disassembly of the unit is not required for any

reason other than for servicing.

The diagnostics utility permits monitoring and logging of radio

performance parameters for both E Series* as well as D Series* data

radio modems and base stations. It supports homogeneous systems

of radios as well as mixed systems of both E and D series radios.

The firmware update utility permits field upgrade of the firmware in an

ER450 data radio modem, EB450 base station and EH450 hot

standby unit connected directly to the PC. A special serial adaptor

cable is required to be connected to Port B to load firmware into the

unit.

* Requires the optional DIAGS Network Management and Remote

Diagnostic Facility to be installed - per radio.

Installation

Unit Connection

Programmer and Diagnostics Utilities

The unit is connected to the PC using the supplied DB9-RJ45 adaptor

cable (part no. TVIEW+ Cable) for local configuration changes or

diagnostic monitoring. The cable should be connected to the RJ45

System Port of the unit and a valid PC serial port (eg; COM 1) DB9

connector.

(See Part E - Getting Started: Communications Ports)

Firmware Update Utility

The unit to be updated with firmware connects to the PC using the

DB9-DB9 adaptor (part no. DRPROG). The cable should be

connected to the DB9 Port B connector on the unit and a valid PC

serial port (See Appendix C for details) DB9 connector.

Software

Please take a moment to read this important information before you

install the software.

The installation of this Software Suite is a 2 step process.

Step 1 completes the typical installation of the TVIEW+ Management

Suite and will install the Programming Software together with the E

Series Documentation.

Step 2 installs the Diagnostic Software and is optional. This step is

only required if your radios have Remote Diagnostics enabled.

STEP 1: Installation - TVIEW+ Management

Suite

Note: If a previous version of the TVIEW+ Management Suite has

been installed on your PC, you must uninstall it via Control Panel

“Add/Remove Programs”.

• Close down all other programs currently running.

• Place the CD-ROM in the drive on the PC.

• Using Windows Explorer locate the files on the CD-ROM.

• In Windows Explorer double click on the file called

TVIEW+_(Version#)_install.exe

• After the installer starts follow directions.

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Programmer

Main Window

When first started the programmer is in file mode as indicated by the

mode field at the bottom right of the panel shown below. In this mode it

is possible to open a previously saved configuration file, or configure

various programming options and save the configuration to a file.

Note: Modulation type is not available in this mode.

To commence programming a unit (radio remote or base station) a

session must first be established by using the “READ” function. This

function reads the current configuration from the unit and displays it in

the main window. The “mode” displays changes to local or remote

depending on the type of session selected at the read function. Several

options in the main window may be blanked out until a session has

been established with a unit.

Note: Changing any item on the menu will in general not take effect

until data is written back to the unit using the “WRITE” function.

The procedure to follow for normal programming of unit is:

• Read unit

• Configure parameters (or Open a previously saved

configuration file)

• Write unit

Several modems of the same radio type can be programmed with the

same configuration using the clone facility described in Clone Mode. It

is important to note that when using this facility the cloned radio should

be of the same type to ensure it does not operate outside its capability.

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer

STEP 2: Installation - TView Diagnostic

Software (Optional)

Note: If a previous version of the “TView WinDiags” software has

been installed on your PC, you must uninstall it via Control Panel

“Add/Remove Programs”.

• Close down all other programs currently running.

• Place the CD-ROM in the drive on the PC.

• Using Windows Explorer open the “Diagnostics” directory on

the CR-ROM.

• Double click on the file called setup.exe

• After the installer starts follow directions.

Other:

The current E Series Manuals are supplied and installed as part of the

TVIEW+ Management Suite installation in Adobe Acrobat format.

Adobe Acrobat Reader is provided on the CD-ROM for installation if

required.

TVIEW+ Front Panel

When started the TVIEW+ front panel appears. The larger buttons

permit each of the three utilities to be started. The diagnostics button

may be greyed out if this utility has not been installed or found in the

correct file directory. Access to local help and an exit facility are

provided by the remaining 2 buttons.

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Pull Down Menus and Toolbar Buttons

The items on the pull-down menus can be selected either directly with

a mouse or using the ALT key in combination with a HOT KEY (eg

ALT-F to select the file menu). Several of the functions within each

menu are also available on the toolbar (click once to select).

File Menu

The file menu allows the user to load (open) or save configuration data

as well as to quit the program. The files are saved with an “.cfg” file

extension

Open (also available on the toolbar)

This function is used to load an existing configuration file that can be

used to directly program the radio or to use as a starting point to edit

configuration parameters. Note that a session must be established

with the unit by initially reading the configuration parameters from the

unit prior to being written to a unit.

If in file mode the modulation type will not be displayed. If in local/

remote mode and a file that was saved from local/remote mode is

opened, then modulation type will be imported and used, but only if it

is valid for the connected hardware. If not then the units read

modulation type will be used.

Save (also available on the toolbar)

This function is used to save the current configuration parameters to a

file for future recall.

If in “file mode” only basic RF, Port and System parameters are

saved and re called. If in local/remote mode then modulation type is

saved and re called.

Print (also available on the toolbar)

This function prints out the configuration data to the default printer in a

standard format. There are no options for this item.

This should be used if a complete record is required for site/unit

configuration. Firmware/Modulation/Diags/Hardware type are all

printed.

Exit (also available on the toolbar)

This function terminates the program. The user is requested to confirm

this selection before exiting the application.

Modem Menu

This radio menu allows configuration data to be read

from and written to the unit (remote radio or base

station) using the selected PC serial port connection

(see Settings menu). The action of reading the

configuration establishes a session with the unit.

Communications is maintained with the unit to ensure

that the session remains open. If the session has been lost due to data

transmission errors or disconnection of the programming cable it will

need to be re-established to ensure any updated configuration is written

successfully to the unit.

Read (also available on the toolbar)

This function establishes a session with the unit, reads configuration

data from the unit and displays it in the programmer main window.

When selected a dialogue window appears prompting the user to

choose whether the unit to read is local (connected directly to the serial

port or remote (connected over the air to the unit connected to serial

port). Unit no. (serial no.) musty be entered and the stream SID code

is “on” (default =0)). After configuration data is read from the unit it is

available for editing and writing back to the unit or saving to a file. The

progress of data transfer to or from the unit is indicated by a message

window as well as a rotating indicator in the bottom right hand corner

of the main window.

Write (also available on the toolbar)

This function writes configuration data displayed in the main window to

the unit and reboots the unit. When selected a dialogue window

appears prompting the user to confirm whether to proceed. A progress

indicator in the bottom right hand corner of the main window is

displayed while data is being read. This selection is only available if a

session has been previously established and maintained with the unit.

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer

Page 43

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

This dialog provides a facility for reversing any remote configuration

changes and reverting to the previous configuration.

Select “No” to send a command to the unit to accept the new

configuration changes and to close the session. Select “Yes” to send a

command to the unit to cancel the new configuration changes and to

close the session.

The configuration settings will revert to their previous values if the data

communications circuit with the unit has been interrupted after the new

changes have been made, but before they have been verified, as just

described, then the unit will automatically discard the new changes. A

“Timeout Error” message will appearin the event of such an

interruption and the programmer will revert back to file mode.

After configuration data has been written the session with the unit is

closed and the programmer goes back to file mode

NOTE: In general any change made on the programmer screen must

be written to the unit using this function before it becomes permanently

stored. Changes to Power Adjust, Mute Adjust and Tx/Rx Trim

however do take immediate effect to permit a tuning capability prior to

being permanent stored.

Cancel Session (also available on the toolbar)

This function closes the session with unit and puts the programmer

back into file mode. All configuration changes are discarded including

changes to Power Adjust, Mute Adjust and Tx/Rx Trim.

Wizard (also available on toolbar)

This function permits the user to select standard configurations after the

configuration from a unit has been read or a file opened. The user is

prompted via a series of dialogue windows to select the desired

configuration that can then be written to the unit (remote radio or base

station).

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer

Clone Mode

This function permits writing of the same configuration data to several

units. This feature is normally used for configuring data radio modems

connected locally. The procedure is:

• Read the configuration from the first unit

• Configure the parameters (or Open a previously saved

configuration file)

• Select Clone Mode (Modem menu)

• Write the configuration to the first unit

• The changes will take effect when repowered

• Connect the next unit

• Write the next unit which establishes a session and recognises

the unit serial number and type, and then configures the unit

• Repower the unit for changes to take effect

• Repeat the last 3 steps for the remaining units.

Settings

This menu permits selection of the PC serial port (COM1 to COM4)

to be used for communications with the unit. COM1 is the default

selection and if a different port is to be used it must be set before

establishing a session by reading the configuration from a unit. Whilst

a session is established with a unit this menu can not be accessed.

Help

This menu permits selection of help information using the Contents

key. Warnings regarding use of the programmer software using the

Warnings key and version detail using the About key.

Port A and Port B Configuration

Data from these two user ports is multiplexed for transmission over the

air. Each port can be configured separately for the Character layer

(Data speed, number of data bits, number of stop bits, parity), Packet

layer and Handshaking (flow control). Port B must be enabled if

required by setting the check box at the top of its configuration section.

if Port B is off, the 16K memory is split equally between Port A Rx/Tx

buffers (ie: 8K & 8 K). If Port B is on, then the 16K is split equally

across Port A & B Rx/Tx buffers (ie: 4K, 4K, 4K & 4K).

The following description is common to both ports.

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E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Packet Layer

There are two standard configurations and a custom configuration

which can be selected by checking the appropriate control button to the

left of the description. There are essentially two basic modes of

operation for the packet assembler and disassembler (PAD). The first

is where the PAD operates in a standard mode with data received at

the port being immediately sent over the radio channel. The second is

a store and forward or delayed mode where whole data packets are

received from the port before being sent over the radio channel. In both

cases data is sent over the radio channel in variable length frames and

delineation of these frames is dependent on the configuration selected

as well as the characteristics of the data stream received at the data

port.

The packet layer configuration options which can be selected are:

Standard (live framing)

With standard live framing data received from the host by the modem

is immediately placed into a frame and transferred onto the radio

channel. This avoids placing “store and forward” delays in the data

transmission.

If a stream of characters is received by the modem, then several

characters at a time may be placed into the same frame. The number

of characters in the frame depends mainly on the respective baud

rates of the user port and the primary channel baud rate of the modem,

as well as the level of overheads experienced on the radio channel

and the user data stream.

For example a constant stream of 300 baud user data placed onto a

9600 baud channel will result in 1 character per frame being

transmitted. If the user baud rate was lifted to 9600,N,8,1 with a

continuous data stream, then the frame size would settle to about 16

characters plus 32 overhead bits. If collision avoidance is enabled as

master the average frame size will increase to 32 characters plus

overhead bits.

The number of data bits associated with the user data stream will also

have an effect on the average size of a frame. For instance the

number of stop bits, and number of data bits per character.

The system designer must choose the best compromise of all the

above items to ensure the most efficient method of data transmission.

Note: The first character is always packetized and sent by itself

regardless of all the above variables.

Modbus

This selection configures the PAD driver with options automatically set

to implement the MODBUS protocol. eg: 5 mSec timer.

Custom

Other configurations of the PAD driver can be selected via the Custom

button which displays a dialogue box to permit selection of several

configuration options as follows:

SLIP / DIAGNOSTICS

SLIP is a well known protocol for transferring binary data

packets over a data link. Each data packet is delineated by

<FEND> characters, and a substitution mechanism exists that

allows these characters to be included in the data packet.

Appendix B describes the SLIP protocol which is used

extensively in UNIX(tm) based systems, and is closely

associated with TCP/IP networks.

The diagnostics controller package uses the SLIP protocol to

communicate between base station and remote modems.

DNP-3 / IEC870

This selection configures the PAD driver to implement the DNP-3

Protocol and IEC870 Protocol.

Pull Down Menu Selection

The PAD driver can be configured for a number of vendor

specific protocols by selecting the desired option.

Part I  TVIEW+ Management Suite - Programmer

Character Layer

There are two standard formats and a custom format that can be

selected by checking the appropriate control button to the left of the

description. The standard formats are:

• 9600,N,8,1 (data speed = 9600 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1

stop bit)

• 4800,N,8,1 (data speed = 4800 bps, no parity, 8 data bits, 1

stop bit)

A non-standard format can be selected via the Custom button that

displays a dialogue box to permit selection of data speed, parity,

number of data bits and stop bits. Once selected the OK button should

be used to complete the selection. The custom selection is also

displayed in the main window below the Custom button.

Page 45

E Series Data Radio – User Manual

Custom Format

This selection permits PAD driver to be configured in a variety of

ways and requires a greater understanding of the system design.

For the modem to successfully transmit its packets (or frames) of

data over the radio channel, it must be told on what basis to

delineate data packets received at the data port. Once the end of

a data packet has been received at the port the data frame is

closed and transmission over the radio channel commences.

Delineation of data packets can be configured to occur via any

combination of:

• A predefined minimum time delay between packets received

at the port. Typically the time delay would reflect the absence

of a couple of characters in the data stream at the specified

user port baud rate.

• Limiting the maximum number of characters which can be put

in the data frame sent over the radio channel.

• Receipt of a selected end of message (EOM) character at the

port. An ASCII carriage return (character 13) is often used for

this purpose.

As each data frame to be transmitted over the radio channel has

overhead data consisting of checksums and SID codes. The

system designer must determine the best compromise between

the ratio of overhead versus user data which depends on packet

size and user data packet transmission latency.

The fields which can be configured are:

•Character Input timer: Set the input timer value in ms or enter

zero to disable. Range 0 - 255.

•Maximum Frame Size: Set the maximum number of

characters or enter zero to disable. Range 0 - 4095.

•EOM Character: Select the check box to the left of the

description to enable and enter the EOM character as a

decimal value. Range 0 - 255.

Handshaking

If the standard PAD is selected (i.e. any settings apart from SLIP/

Diagnostics), then flow control can be either hardware handshaking,

XON/XOFF protocol or none.

The XON/XOFF flow control is not possible when using either the

SLIP/Diagnostics protocol.

The Handshaking section of the screen allows the selection of either of

the handshaking methods as well as allowing handshaking to be

disabled.

Details of the two handshaking methods are given below.

Hardware

The modem acts as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) and

supplies to the host controller the following interface signals:

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) and

supplies to the modem the following interface signals :

Data Terminal Ready (DTR)

Request To Send (RTS)

Transmit Data Input (TXD)

• DCD

DCD has several modes of operation. It is set to TRUE when

data is being transferred from the modem to the host - RXD line

active. The signal is asserted approximately 500ms before the

start bit of the first character in the data stream and remains for

approximately 1 character after the last bit in the data stream. The

other modes of operation are dependent on the advanced

settings.

• DSR

DSR is permanently set to TRUE.

• CTS

The CTS is a signal from the modem to the host informing the

host that the modem is able to accept incoming data on the TXD

line. It responds to the actions of the RTS line similar to the

operation of a “standard” line modem.

The CTS is FALSE if the RTS line is FALSE. Once the RTS line

is set to TRUE (signalling that the host wants to send some data

to the modem on the TXD line), then the CTS will be set TRUE

within 1ms, if the modem is capable of accepting more data.

The CTS line will be set to FALSE if the transmit buffer in the

modem exceeds 4075 bytes, or the number of queued frames

exceeds 29 to ensure that no overflow condition can occur.

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• RTS

The RTS line is used for two reasons. The first is to assert the

CTS line in response to RTS. The RTS line can also be used to

key up the transmitter stage of the modem.

• DTR

The DTR line is used for flow control of data being sent from the

modem to the host controller. When the host is able to accept

data it sets this line to TRUE, and if data is available within the

modem, it will be sent to the host. If the host cannot accept any

more data, then it sets the DTR to FALSE, and the modem will

stop all transmissions to the host.

• Xon/Xoff

If the flow control mechanism is XON/XOFF then the modem

uses the standard ASCII control codes of DC1

{^Q=11(Hex)=17(Dec)} for XON and DC3

{^S=13(Hex)=19(Dec)} for XOFF. The DTR input line is totally

ignored.

NOTE: There is no substitution mechanism employed in the

XON/XOFF protocol, so care must be taken when transferring

binary data to ensure that invalid flow control characters are not

generated.

Advanced

This button provides access to the advanced features of the port

configuration. When selected a dialogue box appears which permits

selection of the source for the port DCD output signal.

Disabled

This selection disables the DCD output on the port. This selection is

not permissible if hardware based flow control has been selected.

RF Carrier Detect

This selection causes DCD to be asserted at the onset of a received

RF signal being detected. This will generally occur several

milliseconds before data is transmitted from the port.

Data Detect (RS485 Flow Control)

This selection causes DCD to be asserted when data is about to be

transmitted from the port. This option is not available if handshaking is

set to “None” or “Xon/Xoff”.

RF Parameters

This section of the main window permits adjustment of transmitter and

receiver, radio channel modulation scheme, frequency trim and

advanced features.

Transmitter

The transmitter can be configured for transmit frequency and power

level.

Frequency

The required transmit frequency in MHz can be entered in the display

field. The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in the

range for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.

Power Adjust

The currently selected transmit power is displayed below the button in

dBm. The power level can be adjusted by selecting this button which

displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or a typed in value, can

be used to select the required power level in dBm steps. There are

two methods for setting the power.

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• Using Factory Calibration

To use the factory calibration of the radio the desired power is set

immediately using the OK button in the dialogue box. This

method permits the transmit power to be set without energising

the transmitter. Note that although the transmit power has been

adjusted it must be written to NVRAM using the modem “Write”

function to ensure it is retained after a power on reset.

• Using a Power Meter

To overcome manufacturing variations in the power setting a

more accurate setting of power can be achieved by the selecting

the “Test With Meter” button in the dialogue box. This displays

another dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter is about

to be energised and that the power meter used should be able to

handle at least 10 Watts from the modem.

Selecting OK in this warning dialogue box will energise the

transmitter which will also be indicated by the red transmit LED

on the unit. The power is adjusted using the up/down keys until

the required power level is obtained. Selecting OK will retain the

power setting and turn the transmitter off. Note that although the

transmit power has been adjusted it must be written to NVRAM

using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after the

modem is rebooted.

Selecting “stop test” will stop and leave you in power adjust

box. “Cancel” will stop test and take you back to the main

window.

Receiver

The receiver can be configured for receive frequency and mute level.

Frequency

The required receive frequency in MHz can be entered in the display

field. The programmer checks that the selected frequency is in the

range for the particular model of radio and provides warnings if not.

Mute Adjust

The currently selected mute level is displayed in the main window

below the button in dBm. The mute level can be adjusted by selecting

this button which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys, or a

typed in value, can be used to select the required mute level in dBm

steps. Whilst a session is in progress with a unit the mute level

adjustment is live. Selecting OK will retain the mute level setting. Note

that although the mute level has been adjusted it must be written to

NVRAM using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after

the modem is rebooted.

Whilst the modem is capable of receiving extremely weak radio

signals, and successfully extracting the data content from the

waveforms the mute level should be set to assist the modem in

filtering out unwanted signals. Unwanted signals can be the result of

background noise or interference. The mute level should be set at a

level above these unwanted signals and at a level low enough to

detect the wanted signal. Detection of a received signal above the

mute level is indicated by the “RxSig” LED on the unit.

Setting of a correct mute level at a base station is critical if collision

avoidance is operational in a point to multipoint system. In this situation

detection of “noise” instead of a valid transmission from the remote

modems will effectively “lock out” all of the remote units from

accessing and using the channel.

Due to normal manufacturing variations the actual mute level may

vary by several dBm to that selected. If a more accurate adjustment

is required an unmodulated signal of the correct frequency and desired

threshold level can be applied to the radio modem’s antenna connector.

Modulation

The radio modem utilises a DSP to control the modulation of transmit

signals and de-modulation of received signals. This provides greater

flexibility in the ability of the radio modem to support new modulation

schemes whilst maintaining compatibility with existing modulation

schemes.

The currently selected modulation scheme is displayed in the main

window below the select button. The modulation scheme can be

adjusted by selecting this button which displays a dialogue box. The

desired modulation scheme can then be selected from the pull-down

menu in the dialogue box and retained using the OK button.

In the case of 12.5kHz channel radio modems the presently supported

modulation schemes include:

• 9600 12.5kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 9600bps

modulation scheme available in E Series products which

supports a significantly reduced delay between detection of a

valid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data.

• 4800 12.5kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 4800bps

modulation scheme used in the D Series products to provide

backward compatibility.

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Tx/Rx (Frequency) Trim

The currently selected frequency trim, which is common to both

transmitter and receiver, is displayed in the main window below the

button in Hz. The frequency trim can be adjusted live by selecting this

button which displays a dialogue box. The up/down keys can be used

to select the required frequency offset in steps pre-determined by the

radio modem. Selecting OK will retain the frequency trim setting. Note

that although the frequency trim has been adjusted it must be written to

NVRAM using the modem “Write” function to ensure it is retained after

the modem is rebooted.

This facility permits correction for drifts in the frequency reference

caused by component ageing. For example, a standard crystal may

vary in fundamental frequency operation over 1 year by one part per

million. An adjustment range of ± 10ppm, displayed in Hz, has been

allowed for and if this is insufficient the unit should be returned to the

dealer/factory for re-calibration.

Advanced

This button permits setting of advanced features. When selected a

dialogue box appears which permits configuration of the type of

received data clock alignment method.

In the case of full duplex units the receiver is always active and is not

interrupted by transmissions from the unit as would be the case for half

duplex units. In this situation it is not necessary, or desirable in the

case of a base station, for the recovered data clock alignment to be

remembered between bursts of received signals. In this situation the

“Receiver Full Duplex” check box to the left should be selected.

NOTE: For half duplex units the “Receiver Full Duplex” check box

should not be set.

System Parameters

This section of the main window configures the PTT control, collision

avoidance, stream setup for routing of data, advanced features and

provides unit information.

PTT (Press To Talk) Control

RF transmission can be configured to occur permanently,

automatically on data received at Port A or Port B, or RTS being

asserted on Port A or Port B. A PTT timeout facility can be configured

to limit the period for which the transmitter is enabled. Each option is

selected by setting the control to the left of the description on the main

window. When PTT is active the “Tx” LED on the unit is illuminated

and RF power is being fed to the antenna.

Permanent Tx

This will cause the transmitter to be permanently enabled (keyed) and

displays another dialogue box warning the user that the transmitter will

be energised immediately after the configuration is written to the unit.

Selecting OK confirms this setting. The other PTT selections are

disabled when this option is selected.

NOTE: This option is only available for half duplex units when being

programmed locally.

Auto On Data

This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) automatically on

data received at Port A or Port B and included in a complete frame for

transmission over the radio channel. The maximum period for which

the transmitter will be enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting.

From Port A RTS

This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port A RTS

being asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will be

enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which rely

on establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require this

method of activation.

From Port B RTS

This will cause the transmitter to be enabled (keyed) on Port B RTS

being asserted. The maximum period for which the transmitter will be

enabled is limited by the PTT timeout setting. Applications which rely

on establishing a link ahead of data being transferred require this

method of activation.

In the case of 25kHz channel radio modems the presently supported

modulation schemes include:

• 19200 25kHz ACA E Series. This is a new 19200bps

modulation scheme available in E-Series products which

supports a significantly reduced delay between detection of a

valid RF carrier signal and demodulation of user data.

• 9600 25kHz ACA D Series. This is a current 9600bps

modulation scheme used in the D Series products to provide

backward compatibility.

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Stream Setup

This button brings up a dialogue box to permit editing of Stream

IDentifier (SID) codes which are used by the modem as the

addressing mechanism for data stream routing. A SID code can be

placed at the start of each data frame as it is sent over the radio

channel. The receiving modems use this code to determine how to

route the data message. The modem supports simultaneous operation

of both Port “A” and Port “B” over the one radio link, along with the

inclusion of a diagnostics data stream.

Each port is independant and fully supports one of four options which

can be chosen as described below. Note that the port B parameters

are greyed out when port B is not enabled.

The following diagram illustrates the structure of the stream routing

function for each data port.

SID

Filter

SID Adder/

Translator

ort Data In

x Data In

x Data Ou

ort Data O

Stream Router

ser,Trun

epeat,Translate

User Port

This option is selected by clicking on the User Port button and filling in

the RXSID and TXSID fields to the right.

In the User Port mode (Referred to in the previous programmer as

MUX/DEMUX mode) all SID code operations are performed

transparently to the user. Data placed into a user port which has been

assigned a specified SID code, will only be received by a modem at

the other end of the radio link that has a user port assigned with the

same SID code.

In this way, Port “A” and Port “B” can be assigned different SID

codes, thereby separating the data streams.

Two SID codes values are available for each user port RXSID and

TXSID. The RXSID codes apply to the data being received by the

modem, and the TXSID codes apply to the data being transmitted by

the modem. This allows for different transmit and receive codes if

required, but generally they would be both the same.

A situation where Tx and Rx SID codes may be different is in a

repeater configuration. In this type of application all data messages

sent to the repeater will be “repeated”. Thus by having different Tx

and Rx codes a control unit will not “hear” its own transmission and

remotes will not hear the reply from any other remote.

If the diagnostics facility is installed in the modem, then it too has a pair

SID codes. The diagnostics data simply uses a different data stream

or streams to the user data, but is processed internally by the modem.

If access to the diagnostics facility is required, similar to when the

diagnostics utility is used with the modem, then the data port

concerned and the diagnostics stream, must have the same SID

codes assigned to them. Alternatively the System port can be used,

which is 19.2K, Slip.

(Previously TXSID was referred to as SIDA2 or SIDB2 and RXSID

was referred to as SIDA1 or SIDB1 for ports A and B respectively).

Trunk Streams

In the Trunk Streams mode, data that is inputted into the modem for

transmission must have a SID code appended to the start of the data

packet by the user. The modem does not do it as in the User Port

mode of operation. When a data packet is received by the modem, it

is passed through a SID code filter which is bounded by a lower and

upper limit of SID codes. The SID code is not stripped off from the

user data.

For instance the lower bound is 03 and the upper bound is 07. If a

message is received with a SID code of 02 appended it would not be

passed to the user. If a message is received with a SID code of 04

then it is passed to the user, with 04 at the start of the frame.

The SID codes can range from 0 to 255, and physically consist of the

byte value of the code i.e. a code of 156 is equivalent to “10011100”

binary.

PTT Timeout

The PTT timeout facility is used to disable the transmitter if it exceeds

the designated time. The timeout value can range from 1 to 255

seconds and the facility is disabled by setting a zero value.

The timeout value chosen for this should be set according to system

requirements which may include:

• Prevention of a remote unit remaining keyed up and locking out

all other remote units in a point to multipoint system.

• Limiting the period a remote unit remains keyed up to prevent

battery drain in a low power application.

NOTE: If a PTT timeout occurs before completion of a data

transmission data will be lost.

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To select the Trunk Streams option click on the Trunk Streams button

of the port to be used and fill in the fields to the right. The “From” field

is for the lower SID code limit and the “To” field for the upper SID code

limit.

NOTE: When using Trunk Streams an unambiguous packet

delineation scheme (eg. SLIP) should be used so that the SID code in

the user data can be decoded correctly.

Repeat Streams

The modem is capable of operating in a repeater mode. Each user

port can be configured as a separate repeater. The associated user

ports are effectively disconnected from the “outside world” when in

repeater mode. Data received from the radio channel is passed

directly to the transmitter, and placed back onto the radio channel.

The repeater must receive a complete frame of data before it is

retransmitted. In some systems this store and forward delay may be

significant, and careful selection of maximum frame sizes configured at

the source unit must be considered to minimise the delay.

To enable the mode for the port click the Repeat Streams button and

select the range of SID codes on frames to be repeated.

Translate Streams

This is essentially a hybrid of the User Port and Repeat Streams

functions available on a port. Whereas the latter repeats a range of

streams, this function instead translates one stream to another, by

demultiplexing one stream (defined by Rx SID), and re-transmitting it

with a new stream address (defined by Tx SID).

NOTE: Data is not presented to the user ports.

Diagnostics Processor

The Diagnostics Processor uses several streams defined by the range

of SID codes. The diagnostics commands received on each stream

are sent back over the same stream. The Diagnostics Processor is an

option which must be enabled before this section of the menu will

become active.

Diagnostics Repeat

This option can be toggled on and off simply by clicking the

button.

Some applications will require that the master unit in a point to

multipoint system to repeat diagnostics frames only (i.e. the

master modem is not set up as a repeater).

This will be the case when the system diagnostics controller is

connected to a remote unit in the system, and it polls the system

population from this point. The master unit must retransmit any

diagnostic frames that are not addressed to itself onto the

remainder of the population.

Advanced

This button permits setting of advanced system parameter features.

This presently includes enabling the diagnostics facility within the unit.

Once enabled the diagnostics utility can be used to monitor the

performance of the unit.

The Enable Diagnostics button should be selected and the 8 character

diagnostics key code entered prior to selecting OK. If the key code is

accepted or has been previously entered the Enable Diagnostics

button will be greyed out. Contact your supplier for Key Code

purchase.

Collision Avoidance

In a point to multipoint system the master unit (usually a base station)

can transmit at any time and the remotes will all receive the broadcast

signal. However, if more than one remote unit transmits at a time,

then a collision will occur during the multiple transmissions, resulting in

a loss of data from one or more units.

Two collision avoidance mechanisms have been included in the

modem. The standard (Digital) method utilises a signalling channel

which is embedded in overhead data transmitted over the radio

channel. The second method utilises detection of a carrier signal to

postpone transmission of data. Both methods require configuration of

several options for successful operation.

The desired option for collision avoidance is selected by checking the

control button to the left of the description on the main window.

None

When selected this turns off all collision avoidance mechanisms. This

should only be used in point to point applications.

Digital

This is the standard method of collision avoidance and utilises a

channel busy indication bit in the signalling channel transmitted to all

remotes for control. When selected a dialogue box appears and

several options must be configured:

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