MDS™ Master Station

Modular Communications Platform

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Technical Manual
Technical Manual

Technical Manual
DECEMBER 2016
Firmware Version 4.1.6 and higher.
 Quick-Start instructions for this product are contained in publication 05-6398A01.

Visit our website for downloadable copies of all documentation at www.gemds.com.

IMPORTANT
This manual describes the details, installation, configuration and operation of the
MDS™ Master Station. It does not cover the description or configuration of features and
settings common to the MDS Orbit family of products. For full information on
configuring the parts of the system that are not directly related to SD/LN networking or
the MDS™ Master Station, please reference the MDS Orbit MCR Technical Manual
(p/n: 05-6632A01). The MDS™ Master Station manual is designed to be used in
parallel with the MCR Technical Manual, and as such does NOT cover information
already described in that manual.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................... 9
1.1 Organization of Manual............................................................................................... 9
Related Publications .............................................................................................. 10
2.0 KEY PRODUCT FEATURES................................................................................ 11
2.1 Accessories and Spare Items ................................................................................... 13
2.2 FCC Emission Designators: How to Find Them ...................................................... 15
2.3 Front Panel................................................................................................................ 15
2.4 Rear Antenna Connections ...................................................................................... 16
3.0 INSTALLATION PLANNING ................................................................................ 17
3.1 Applications ............................................................................................................... 17
Repeater and Polling Remote Operation (MPRS Only) ....................................... 18
Simplex and Switched Carrier Operation ............................................................. 18
3.2 Network Management............................................................................................... 18
MPRS Network-Wide Diagnostics ........................................................................ 18
MPRS Network Management Using PulseNET ................................................... 18
3.3 Redundant versus Non-redundant Operation .......................................................... 19
3.4 Antennas and Feedlines ........................................................................................... 19
Antennas................................................................................................................ 19
Feedlines ............................................................................................................... 19
3.5 Grounding Considerations ........................................................................................ 20
3.6 Data Interface Connections ...................................................................................... 21
Ethernet Data Interface (RJ-45) ............................................................................ 21
Serial Data Interfaces ............................................................................................ 21
MPRS Serial Data Connection .............................................................................. 21
Mini USB ................................................................................................................ 22
Alarm Output and 4-Wire Audio ............................................................................ 22
4.0 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES ......................................................................... 23
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection ........................................................................................ 23
4.2 Installation Steps....................................................................................................... 23
Initial Startup & Operation ..................................................................................... 26
Module LED Indicators .......................................................................................... 26
Normal Indications ................................................................................................. 27
Maximizing RSSI ................................................................................................... 27
5.0 DEVICE MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................... 28
5.1 Pre-Configured Settings ........................................................................................... 28
5.2 One-Time “Recovery” Passwords ............................................................................ 28
One-Time Passwords: How They Work ............................................................... 28
Creating a One-Time Password ............................................................................ 29
Logging in With a One-Time Password ................................................................ 29
Deleting a One-Time Password ............................................................................ 29
5.3 Configuration via Command Line (CLI) .................................................................... 30
Tab Completion Feature ....................................................................................... 30
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 1
 CLI Quick Reference Table ................................................................................... 30
5.4 Interface Naming....................................................................................................... 32
5.5 Configuration via the Device Manager ..................................................................... 32
General Configuration ........................................................................................... 33
5.6 Interface Configuration ............................................................................................. 34
Understanding ....................................................................................................... 34
Configuring ............................................................................................................ 34
5.7 LAN............................................................................................................................ 38
Understanding ....................................................................................................... 38
Configuring ............................................................................................................ 38
5.8 Bridging ..................................................................................................................... 40
Understanding ....................................................................................................... 40
Configuring ............................................................................................................ 41
5.9 SDMS Interface ......................................................................................................... 41
Understanding ....................................................................................................... 41
Configuration ......................................................................................................... 43
General Settings .................................................................................................... 44
Dlink ....................................................................................................................... 48
MAC Settings ......................................................................................................... 49
IP Payload ............................................................................................................. 51
Advanced Configuration ........................................................................................ 57
Audio ...................................................................................................................... 60
Actions ................................................................................................................... 61
Remote SD Reprogramming ................................................................................. 65
Monitoring .............................................................................................................. 69
Performance .......................................................................................................... 70
5.10 SD-x/0/0 Interfaces ................................................................................................... 71
General .................................................................................................................. 71
Statistics................................................................................................................. 71
5.11 LNMS interface ......................................................................................................... 74
Understanding ....................................................................................................... 74
Advanced Configuration ........................................................................................ 80
Monitoring .............................................................................................................. 81
CLI Configuration Examples ................................................................................. 86
5.12 LN-x/0/0 interfaces .................................................................................................... 93
6.0 MASTER STATION MODULES ........................................................................... 94
6.1 AC Power Supply Module ......................................................................................... 95
6.2 DC Power Supply Module ........................................................................................ 96
6.3 Platform Manager Module ........................................................................................ 97
Platform Manager LED Indicators ......................................................................... 97
Ethernet Interfaces ................................................................................................ 97
COM1 Interface ..................................................................................................... 98
COM2 Interface ..................................................................................................... 99
Mini USB Interface............................................................................................... 101
6.4 SD Radio Modules .................................................................................................. 102
SD Master Radio Module LED Indicators ........................................................... 102
SD Master Radio Module RF Interface ............................................................... 102
2 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 Technical Specifications ...................................................................................... 103
6.5 LN Radio Modules .................................................................................................. 105
LN Master Radio Module LED Indicators ........................................................... 105
Technical Specifications ...................................................................................... 106
6.6 Alarm and Alarm/Relay Modules ............................................................................ 109
Alarm Module LEDs ............................................................................................ 110
Alarm/Audio Interface .......................................................................................... 110
Alarm/Relay Toggle Switch (6847 Only) ............................................................. 111
Alarm/Relay RF Connections (6847 Only) ......................................................... 111
6.7 Duplexer Tray.......................................................................................................... 112
7.0 SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS ........................................................................... 113
7.1 Migrating “A” Modem Networks .............................................................................. 113
Mitigation strategy for mixed SDx/x710 repeater networks using the “A” modem ..... 113
User Configuration 1: Non-CKEY Repeater Network Case ............................... 113
User Configuration 2: CKEY Repeater Network Case ....................................... 114
8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................ 115
8.1 Interpreting Module LEDs ....................................................................................... 115
Normal Operation ................................................................................................ 115
Exception and Alarm States ................................................................................ 116
8.2 Redundant Units ..................................................................................................... 116
8.3 Technical Assistance .............................................................................................. 116
8.4 Replacing Modules ................................................................................................. 116
Power Supply Modules........................................................................................ 117
Peripheral Modules – including Platform Manager, Radio, Alarm, and Alarm
Relay Modules. .................................................................................................... 117
Hot Swap Redundant Modules ........................................................................... 118
Internal Duplexer Tray ......................................................................................... 119
400 MHz Notch-Type Duplexers ......................................................................... 119
Bandpass-Type Duplexers .................................................................................. 119
8.5 Testing and Removing an Internal Duplexer ......................................................... 120
Testing ................................................................................................................. 120
Removing the Internal Duplexer ......................................................................... 120
9.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE DATA ..................................................................... 124
9.1 RF Propagation Planning ....................................................................................... 124
Fresnel Zone Clearance ...................................................................................... 124
Formulas for System Planning ............................................................................ 125
9.2 dBm-Volts-Watts Conversion Chart ....................................................................... 127
10.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS ................................................. 128

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 3

Copyright Notice
This Technical Manual and all software described herein are protected by copyright: 2015 GE
MDS. All rights reserved.
GE MDS reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions in this publication.

Safety words and definitions

The following symbols used in this document indicate the following conditions:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or

serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury.
Indicates practices not related to personal injury.

Indicates general information and practices, including operational

information and practices that are not related to personal injury.

Installation & Servicing Precautions

The unit is provided for professional installation only, and utilizes a
specialized antenna connector to restrict the types of antenna connections
that may be made. The integrator of this device is responsible for compliance with all applicable
limits on radiated RF power, and the RF power output may need to be adjusted to maintain
compliance, depending on the gain of the antenna system.
All power supply main connections and disconnections must be made by a qualified electrical
installer.
When servicing energized equipment, be sure to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE). During internal service, situations could arise where objects accidentally contact or short
circuit components and the appropriate PPE would alleviate or decrease the severity of potential
injury. When servicing radios, all workplace regulations and other applicable standards for live
electrical work should be followed to ensure personal safety.

Operational Safety Notices

The radio equipment described in this guide uses radio frequency transmitters.
Although the power level is low, the concentrated energy from a directional
antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow people to come in close
proximity to the front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating. More
information on RF exposure can be found online at the following website:
www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins
This manual is intended to guide a professional installer to install, operate, and perform basic
system maintenance on the described radio.

4 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

The RF safety distance is calculated based on each product type’s highest output power
configuration with no duplexer, redundant switching, or cable losses.

Table 1-1 Antenna Gain vs. Minimum RF Safety Distance

Antenna Gain
Radio Module Equipped
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi

SDM4 – FCC 1.09 meters 1.95 meters 4.11 meters

SDM4 – IC 1.43 meters 2.54 meters 5.37 meters

SDM9 – FCC 0.99 meters 1.76 meters 3.73 meters

SDM9 – IC 1.29 meters 2.30 meters 4.87 meters

LN4 1.43 meters 2.54 meters 5.07 meters

LN9 1.08 meters 1.92 meters 3.82 meters

(other models): Consult factory prior to operation.

Not all frequency models available. Consult factory for available models.
Antennas with gain greater than 16dBi have not been authorized for use with the EUT; and (b)
installation of the EUT into portable applications with respect to RF compliance will require
SAR testing and Regulatory approval.

CSA Notice
Units (Both AC and DC supply versions) are permanently connected to
Protective Earth, via ground stud on the unit enclosure back, where the final
installation is subject to acceptance of CSA International or the local inspection authority having
jurisdiction.
Conditions of Acceptability:
1. The equipment shall be installed indoors in a restricted access
location.
2. Installation of the equipment and its modules shall be conducted by
trained personnel in accordance with the electrical code.
3. This equipment is movable, Class I (earthed), pluggable Type A,
using detachable power cords, intended for use on TN or TT power
system for the AC power option.
4. The DC power option shall be connected to an approved power
source with adequate protection, isolated from the mains by
reinforced insulation.
5. This product was certified for use on a 20A branch circuit for the AC
power option.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 5
 6. The AC socket outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall
be easily accessible.
7. The power supply cord must be disconnected from the appliance inlet
before removing any power supply from the chassis.
8. CAUTION: THIS UNIT HAS MORE THAN ONE POWER SUPPLY
CORD. DISCONNECT THE TWO POWER SUPPLY CORDS
BEFORE SERVICING TO AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK
9. The equipment chassis shall be permanently grounded though a size
six screw and a star toothed washer.
10. The interior of the equipment is not for operator access.

FCC Part 15 Notice

This Equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case users will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received; including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Warning: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment

FCC IDs of Available Transmitters

As of the printing date, the following identifiers are assigned to the modules listed below. For the
latest, official listings of all agency approvals, please contact your factory representative.
Radio Desc. FCC ID IC ID
WIFI Module M4Y-ZCN722MV1 3195A-ZCN722MV1
LN 400Mhz Module E5MDS-LN400 101D-LN400
LN 700Mhz Module E5MDS-LN700 n/a
LN 900Mhz Module E5MDS-LN900 101D-LN900
SD 400Mhz Module E5MDS-SDM4 101D-SDM4
SD 900Mhz Module E5MDS-SDM9 101D-SDM9

Canada, IC ERP Limits

IC SRSP-501, 6.3.2. Limits the ERP to 125W for fixed point-to-point operation. For IC use, the
antenna gain and Transmit power must be set to meet the ERP limit of 125W. This can be
accomplished by using the appropriate at antenna gain in combination with the RF power
settings

6 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Environmental Information
The equipment that you purchased has required the extraction and use of natural resources for its
production. Improper disposal may contaminate the environment and present a health risk due to
hazardous substances contained within. To avoid dissemination of these substances into our
environment, and to diminish the demand on natural resources, we encourage you to use the
appropriate recycling systems for disposal. These systems will reuse or recycle most of the
materials found in this equipment in a sound way. Please contact GE MDS or your supplier for
more information on the proper disposal of this equipment.

ISO 9001 Registration

GE MDS adheres to this internationally-accepted quality system standard.

Quality Policy Statement

We, the employees of GE MDS, are committed to achieving total customer satisfaction in
everything we do.
Total Customer Satisfaction in:
• Conception, design, manufacture, and marketing of our products.
• Services and support we provide to our internal and external customers.
Total Customer Satisfaction Achieved Through:
• Processes that are well documented and minimize variations.
• Partnering with suppliers who are committed to providing quality and service.
• Measuring our performance against customer expectations and industry leaders.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and employee involvement.

Revision Notice
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual, product
improvements may result in minor differences between the manual and the product shipped to
you. If you have additional questions or need an exact specification for a product, please contact
our Customer Service Team using the information at the back of this guide. In addition, manual
updates can often be found on our Web site at www.gemds.com.

ESD Notice
To prevent malfunction or damage to this radio, which may be caused by Electrostatic Discharge
(ESD), the radio should be properly grounded by connection to the ground stud on the rear
panel. In addition, the installer or operator should follow proper ESD precautions, such as
touching a grounded bare metal object to dissipate body charge, prior to connecting and
disconnecting cables on the front or rear panels.

Open Source License Declaration

Orbit MCR products include Open Source Software. Usage is governed by the corresponding
licenses which are listed on the GE MDS Industrial Wireless website, under Orbit MCR
Software/Firmware Downloads, Support Items and download license-declaration.txt.
Upon request, in accordance with certain software license terms, GE will make available a copy
of Open Source code contained in this product. This code is provided to you on an “as is” basis,
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 7
and GE makes no representations or warranties for the use of this code by you independent of
any GE provided software or services. For more information, contact
[email protected].

8 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The MDS™ Master Station is an advanced, flexible platform designed for the demanding
requirements of today’s industrial wireless networks. It represents the latest development in a
line of MDS products that set the standards for wireless performance today. The Master Station
builds on this legacy with several innovative features, including a single compact chassis (2 RU),
100% duty cycle operation (no cooling fans required), front panel access to all modules, and
drop-in compatibility with earlier MDS x790/x710 radio systems.
As the central station in a wireless network, the Master Station provides uncompromised
performance and reliability in mission-critical applications. It offers redundant protection of key
modules, automatic switchover in the event of a fault, and an external battery backup option for
continued operation through temporary power losses. The Master Station mounts conveniently in
a 19-inch rack cabinet, or may be used in shelf/tabletop configurations.

Figure 1-1. MDS™ Master Station

The Master Station can be configured for a variety of service applications, including Point-to-
Multipoint SCADA, Point-to-Point links, broadband, and Cellular connectivity, depending on the
modules installed and active in the chassis.
In FCC part 90 SCADA service, the radio can function as a Master, Repeater, or Remote and is
capable of full duplex operation. Internal duplexer options are available, configured for use with
or without an external notch filter. Provisions for connection to an external duplexer are also
provided. The Master Station is fully compatible with MDS PulseNET management software,
which provides local or remote diagnosis and health reporting.

1.1 Organization of Manual

This manual is intended for use by systems engineers, network administrators, and others
responsible for the planning, installation, commissioning, use, and troubleshooting of the
wireless system. The manual begins with an overall description of product features, and is
followed by the steps required to install the unit and place it into normal operation.
Following the installation procedures, sections are devoted to particular modules that may be
installed in the chassis, including configuration settings for each of these units. Additionally,
troubleshooting tips for resolving system difficulties are offered, as well as a technical reference
section with data on wiring, specifications, and spare parts that may be ordered for the unit.
When installation and setup of the radio is complete, it is recommended that this guide be kept
available for future reference at the installation site. Updated manuals, firmware, and other
support documents may be obtained at any time from our website: www.gemds.com.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 9
Related Publications
In addition to this manual, a companion Setup Guide is available for the MDS™ Master Station,
Part No. 05-6398A01. The Setup Guide is focused on the essential steps for installation and
startup of the unit, and is designed to be used with this Technical Manual.

The MDS™ Master Station Setup Guide, Part No. 05-6398A01 contains basic installation and
startup instructions for the product.

All GE MDS user manuals and updates are available online at www.gemds.com.

The MDS™ Master Station is built on the Orbit platform. For

reference information on advanced networking features available on
the local LAN Interface, refer to the MDS Orbit MCR Technical
Manual (05-6632A01). Note that not all features are supported by
the Master Station or the SD Radio Module. Wireless networking
capabilities are limited by the narrowband channel and the
capabilities of the remote radio.

10 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

2.0 KEY PRODUCT FEATURES
As a licensed, long range IP/Ethernet and serial communications device, the Master Station
exceeds industry standards for reliability and performance in wireless networks. Listed below are
several key features and benefits of the product, and these are available with the appropriate
modules installed and configured in the chassis.
• Drop-in replacement for earlier MDS x790 Master Stations, including support for all
modem types
• Backward compatibility with all legacy MDS x710 Series remote transceivers (A and B
modems)
• Compatible with next generation MDS narrowband wireless LN radios, with enhanced
throughput and security. (When equipped with LN radio cards)
• May be operated as a Master Station, repeater, or remote radio
• Supports use of MDS™ PulseNET Network Management Software
• Software-configurable via a built-in web-based device manager—no manual adjustments
required
• Firmware-upgradeable for future improvements and functionality enhancements
• Available encryption of payload data (AES 128-bit), for networks using all-SD radios
• Dual serial functionality (RS-232 and RS-485)
• Licensed 10-watt radio design ensures minimum 5-watts at the duplexer output, and
maximizes communications range with low interference risk from other users
• RF power adjustable; 1-10 watts at output of radio card (before relay & duplexer)
• Unit is configurable via software, locally or remote
• Media Access Control (MAC) to prevent data collisions when two or more radios attempt
to use the radio channel at the same time
• Supports a wide variety of modem speeds and bandwidths for regulatory compliance in
virtually all regions of the world (future availability)

Some features may not be available on all units, depending on the options purchased and
regulatory constraints for the region in which the radio will operate.

Figure 2-1 MPRL Compatible Remotes

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 11

 When equipped with LN radio cards, the Master Station works with Orbit MCR LN (left) and
Orbit ECR LN (right.

Figure 2-2 MPRS Compatible Remotes

When equipped with SD radio cards, the Master Station works with legacy MDS x710 (left), and
newer MDS SD Transceivers.

12 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 2.1 Accessories and Spare Items
The following table lists common accessories and spare items for use with the Master Station.
GE MDS also offers an Accessories Selection Guide listing an array of additional items available
for use with the product. Contact your factory representative or visit www.gemds.com to obtain a
copy of the guide.
Table 2-1. Accessories and Spares
Item Description Part Number

Three-conductor DC Mates with power connector on the front of the unit’s DC power supply 73-1194A22
power plug module. Screw terminals are provided for wires, and threaded locking
screws to prevent accidental disconnect.
Setup Guide Brief document describing the installation and setup of the unit. One copy 05-6398A01
(for installation & basic normally supplied with each unit. Additional PDF copies available (no
startup) charge) from www.gemds.com.
COM Port Adapter Converts the unit’s RJ-45 serial jack to a DB-9F type. 73-2434A25

Mini USB 2.0 Cable, 3 USB Type A (M) to mini-USB Type B (M) cable to provide console access 97-6694A05
ft./0.91 meter length through the radio’s mini USB connector.
Lightning Protectors Polyphaser Surge Protector, IS-50NX-C2, DC blocked, 125 MHz to 1000 97-1680A01
MHz, N-female connectors, surface (flange) mount
Polyphaser Surge Protector, IS-B50LN-C2, DC blocked, 125 MHz to 97-1680A05
1000 MHz, N-female connectors, bulkhead mount
Cavity Filter Kit Removes or attenuates interfering 900 MHz signals from the receiver 03-3621Axx
input. Might be necessary in areas with high powered stations nearby,
such as paging transmitters. Requires tuning to a particular frequency.
Available for use with an internal or external duplexer.
Alarm & Audio Cable Cable connects to 6847/6848 Alarm/Relay Modules to provide access to 03-6940A01
four wire audio, push to talk, analog RSSI, and Major/Minor alarm dry
contacts
External Battery Kit 2U rack mounted UPS battery backup. Connects to 03-6755A02 AC
power module.
UPS, 120V, 1.5kVA, 900W, 2U – UL/CSA for North America 97-4444A01
UPS, 230V, 1.5kVA, 900W, 2U – CE Marked for Europe 97-4444A02
100-220 AC Power 100-220 VAC, 50/60 Hz. 120W Max AC Power Supply Module. Spare 03-6755A03
Supply Module power supply can be used in either of two power supply slots of the
MDS™ Master Station.
+/- 12-36 VDC Power +/- 12-36 VDC. 10 A Max. DC Power Supply Module. Spare power supply 03-6843A01
Supply Module can be used in either of two power supply slots of the MDS™ Master
Station.
+/- 36-75 VDC Power +/- 36-75 VDC. 3.5 A Max DC Power Supply Module. Spare power supply 03-6844A01
Supply Module can be used in either of two power supply slots of the MDS™ Master
Station.
+/- 75-140 VDC Power +/- 75-140 VDC. 2 A Max DC Power Supply Module. Spare power supply 03-6845A01
Supply Module can be used in either of two power supply slots of the MDS™ Master
Station.
Platform Manager Provides management and data interface functions. 03-6834A01A
Module
SDM9 Module SDM9 C-band full duplex radio: 928-960MHz FCC Part 24, 101, 90, IC 03-6846A01-9C
SDM9 K-band full duplex radio: TX 928-960MHz / RX 880-915MHz FCC 03-6846A01-9K
Part 24, 101, 90

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 13

 Table 2-1. Accessories and Spares
Item Description Part Number

SDM4 Module SDM4 B-band full duplex radio: 400-450MHz FCC Part 22, 90, IC, CE 03-6846A01-4B
SDM4 C-band full duplex radio: 450-512MHz FCC Part 90, IC, CE 03-6846A01-4C
LN4 Module LN400 E-band QAM radio: 406.1-470MHz FCC Part 90, CE 03-6846-L4E
LN400 A-band QAM radio: 330-406MHz CE 03-6846-L4A
LN7 Module LN700 A-band QAM radio: 757-758MHz, 787-788MHz FCC Part 27 03-6846-L7A

LN9 Module LN900 C-band QAM radio: 896-960MHz FCC Part 101, 90, IC 03-6846-L9C

Redundant Active radio relay and alarm/audio interface. 03-6847A01

Alarm/Relay Module
Non-Redundant Alarm Non-redundant—alarm and audio interface. 03-6848A01
Module

900MHz Duplexers Spare duplexer in tray wired for MDS Master Station.

(TX HIGH) 9 MHz RX 932.0-932.5, TX 941.0-941.5), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9B1

24 MHz RX 928.0-929.0, TX 952.0-953.0), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9C1
31 MHz RX 928.0-929.0, TX 959.0-960.0), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9D1
9 MHz RX 932.0-932.5, TX 941.0-941.5),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9B3
24 MHz RX 928.0-929.0, TX 952.0-953.0),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9C3
31 MHz RX 928.0-929.0, TX 959.0-960.0),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9D3
39 MHz RX 896.0-898.0, TX 935.0-937.0, COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9E1
39 MHz RX 896.0-898.0, TX 935.0-937.0, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D9E3

900MHz Duplexers Spare duplexer in tray wired for MDS Master Station.

(TX LOW) 9 MHz TX 932.0-932.5, RX 941.0-941.5), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9Q1

24 MHz TX 928.0-929.0, RX 952.0-953.0), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9R1
31 MHz TX 928.0-929.0, RX 959.0-960.0), COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9S1
9 MHz TX 932.0-932.5, RX 941.0-941.5),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9Q3
24 MHz TX 928.0-929.0, RX 952.0-953.0),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9R3
31 MHz TX 928.0-929.0, RX 959.0-960.0),3 port out for filter 03-6837D9S3
39 MHz TX 896.0-898.0, RX 935.0-937.0, COMBINED OUT 03-6837D9T1
39 MHz TX 896.0-898.0, RX 935.0-937.0, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D9T3

350-512MHz Spare duplexer in tray wired for MDS Master Station.

Duplexers
5-10 MHz Split (350 - 512MHz), TX HIGH,COMBINED OUT 03-6837D411
5-10 MHz Split (350 - 512MHz), TX HIGH, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D413
5-10 MHz Split (350 - 512MHz), TX LOW,COMBINED OUT 03-6837D421
5-10 MHz Split (350 - 512MHz), TX LOW, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D423

700MHz Duplexers Spare duplexer in tray wired for MDS Master Station.

RX 757-758MHz, TX 787-788MHz,COMBINED OUT 03-6837D711

RX 757-758MHz, TX 787-788MHz, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D713
TX 757-758MHz, TX 787-788MHz,COMBINED OUT 03-6837D721
TX 757-758MHz, RX 787-788MHz, 3 port out for filter 03-6837D723
Front Cable Non-Redundant Radio to Duplexer: SMA MALE TO SMB FEMALE 03-4528A07
Replacements Redundant Relay to Duplexer: SMA MALE TO SMB FEMALE 03-4528A07
Redundant Radio to Relay: SMB FEMALE TO SMB FEMALE 03-4528A08

14 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

2.2 FCC Emission Designators: How to Find Them
An FCC emission designator is a seven-character string that represents the bandwidth,
modulation, and other characteristics of a transmitted radio signal. This information is required
when applying for an FCC license. The designator assigned to your equipment depends on the
particular sub-model of the product line you are licensing. In some cases, multiple designators
are used to cover product variants such as base stations, remotes, indoor/outdoor units, frequency
band, etc. An updated and official list of emission designators is maintained on the FCC’s
website at the following link: https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/GenericSearch.cfm
Once the site has been reached, proceed as follows to determine your designator:
1. At the top of form in the box labeled Grantee Code: enter E5M. This is the code for GE MDS
products.
2. At the bottom of the form in the box labeled Show x Records at a Time, enter a sufficiently large
number (i.e., 300) to display all GE MDS records on file. Press Enter.
3. Once the list appears, it can be searched to locate the particular model you are seeking
information on. To the left of each entry, there is a document icon. Click the icon to display
the equipment authorization report.
4. Scroll down to the section labeled Equipment Specifications to locate the appropriate emission
designator. If additional assistance is required, contact GE MDS using the information given
at the end of this manual.

2.3 Front Panel

All access to Master Station modules is made from the front of the unit after removing the
protective cover. To remove the cover, simply grasp the sides and pull out with a slight rocking
motion. Tether strips on the ends of the cover are available to keep it linked to the chassis when
it has been removed from its installed position. The tethers allow the cover to rest just below the
front panel during service work.

Figure 2-3. MDS™ Master Station, Front Panel Connections & Indicators
(Representative arrangement; Module types vary based on product configuration)
Master Station modules are factory installed and cabled. All modules are installed on slide-in
assemblies and secured to the chassis with knurled fasteners. The illustration above shows the
modules installed in a redundant configuration. For a non-redundant configuration, blank plates
are used in place of the redundant power supply and radio modules, and a non-redundant version

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 15

of the Alarm/Relay module will be installed. The table that follows lists the module types
available.
Table 2-2. Module Descriptions
Module Name ID Function

Power Supply 1 6843: (+/- 12-36 VDC) Provides operating power based on a variety of AC and
DC input options. Up to two power supply modules may
Power Supply 2 6844: (+/- 36-75 VDC)
be installed in the chassis (AC or DC; any combination. In
6845: (+/- 75-140 VDC) a redundant configuration, both power supplies work in
tandem and are independent of which radio is currently
6755: (110/220 VAC)
active.

Platform Manager 6834 Provides management and data interface functions.

Radio A 6846 Single or redundant SD or LN Master radios.

Radio B 6846

Alarm/Relay Module 6847 Redundant—Active radio RF relay and alarm/audio

Alarm Module 6848 interface.
Non-redundant—Alarm and audio interface.

Duplexer 6837 Internal RF duplexer (if equipped). Allows simultaneous

transmission and reception of signals on separate TX/RX
frequencies, using a single antenna.

2.4 Rear Antenna Connections

Figure 2-4. MDS™ Master Station, Rear Panel

Showing Antenna Connection & Heatsink
(Other configurations possible for external items such as duplexer or cavity filter)

16 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

3.0 INSTALLATION PLANNING
This section covers pre-installation factors that should be considered when installing the Master
Station. Careful planning will help achieve optimal performance from the radio. After reviewing
this section, refer to the step-by-step installation procedures beginning on Page 23.
The specific details at an installation site may vary, but there are three main requirements for
installing the unit in all cases:
• Adequate and stable primary power
• An efficient and properly installed antenna system
• Correct interface connections between the Master Station and any connected equipment.
Figure 3-1 shows a common arrangement of the MPRS Master Station as used in a multiple
address radio network. The system shows both SD and legacy x710 remote transceivers in use.
Depending on order options, the Master Station can communicate with remotes employing
Ethernet signaling, serial signaling, or a mix of both.

Figure 3-1 Application Example

3.1 Applications
The Master Station is designed for point-to-multipoint data transmission in utility SCADA
communications, transactional systems, and telecommunications systems. The wireless network

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 17

provides communications between a central host computer and remote terminal units (RTUs) or
other data collection devices. In such an arrangement, the operation of the radio system is
transparent to the computer equipment.

Repeater and Polling Remote Operation (MPRS Only)

In a system using FCC Part 90 repeater and polling remote, the polling remote radio operates in
half-duplex mode and the repeater operates in half-duplex or full-duplex mode. The SD Master
Station can be used as a polling remote, or as a repeater. Refer to Page 44 for details on
configuring the radio for repeater operation.

Simplex and Switched Carrier Operation

System-wide simplex operation is achieved by switching the Master Station carrier on to
transmit, and then off to receive. The same frequency is used for both transmit and receive.
In MPRS Master Stations, switched carrier, half-duplex mode works in the same way, except
different frequencies are used for transmit and receive.
Refer to Page 57 for details on configuring the radio for simplex operation for SD radios.

3.2 Network Management

MPRS Network-Wide Diagnostics
When operating with SD radio interfaces (MPRS), the Master Station offers network-wide
diagnostics capability, sometimes referred to as DLINK Diagnostics. Network-wide diagnostics
communications is a packetized diagnostic capability that provides the following advantages:
• You can gather diagnostic data over a large radio network without disrupting the system
communications flow.
• When required, you can increase diagnostics communications speed by actively collecting
diagnostic data.
• You can access diagnostic data for each radio in the network from any radio diagnostics
port in the network.
• You can broadcast certain messages to all radios in the system simultaneously.
You can use the Master Station to poll remote radios in its radio system for diagnostic data. For
more information on the implementation of network-wide diagnostics, refer to the GE MDS
Network-wide Diagnostics Handbook (P/N 05-3467A01).

MPRS Network Management Using PulseNET

PulseNET uses the SNMP, Netconf, and DLINK protocol to monitor the SD Master Station
(MPRS) and downstream devices. The Master Station can be connected locally using either
COM1 or COM2 serial or through Ethernet using TCP. Refer to the section “Dlink” on Page 48
for more information about configuring DLINK on the Master Station.
PulseNET remotely discovers and monitors Master Stations and other SD or x710 radios on the
network using DLINK and other Orbit radios with SNMP and Netconf. The locally connected
radio may be a Master, Repeater, Polling Remote, or Remote. This locally connected radio must
be configured as the DLINK “root” radio to be discovered with DLINK. Downstream radios
should be configured as “node”. PulseNET uses passive polling to discover the “root” radio and

18 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

all of the “node” radios downstream. Passive polling allows monitoring without interrupting
payload data transmission.
In order for PulseNET to discover SD Master Stations in the network, DLINK must be enabled
and properly configured. Refer to the section “Dlink” on Page 48 for information on how to
configure DLINK.

3.3 Redundant versus Non-redundant Operation

A redundant configuration means that the Master Station has two complete transceiver boards
and power supplies installed in the enclosure. In the event of a failure in the primary equipment,
the controlling logic switches to the stand-by unit. The stand-by transceiver board is constantly
operating and its operational readiness is monitored. However, the power amplifier in the stand-
by board is not operating when it is in stand-by mode.
In a non-redundant configuration, there is only one transceiver board installed in the enclosure,
and back-up transceiver board operation is not possible.
Transceiver boards may be moved from one Master Station to another; however an additional
transceiver board cannot be added to a non-redundant Master Station. Redundant or non-
redundant operation is automatically detected by the platform manager, and the active
transceiver is automatically selected. Installing or replacing a transceiver board causes the board
to communicate briefly with the Platform Manager to establish which transceiver board will
operate as the active board and which operates as the stand-by. For more information, refer to
section 8.4 Replacing Modules on Page 116.
When redundant power supplies are present, both supplies are actively operating; meaning there
is no concept of an active vs stand-by power supply. If the system detects a loss of power on one
of the power supplies, an alarm will be generated until power is restored.

3.4 Antennas and Feedlines

Antennas
The Master Station may be used with a number of different antennas. The exact style and gain
factor depend on the physical size and layout of your system. Antennas of this type are available
from several manufacturers, including GE MDS. Contact your factory representative for details.
Connection is made to the station via N coaxial connectors at the rear panel.

Feedlines
The selection of an antenna feedline is very important. Poor quality cable should be avoided, as it
will result in power losses that may reduce the range and reliability of the radio system.
The tables that follow show the approximate losses that will occur when using various lengths
and types of coaxial cable in the 400 and 900 MHz bands, respectively. Regardless of the type
used, the cable should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal loss.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 19

 Table 3-1. Signal Loss in Coaxial Cables (at 900 MHz)
10 Feet 50 Feet 100 Feet 200 Feet
Cable Type (3 Meters) (15 Meters) (30.5 (61 Meters)
Meters)

RG-8A/U 0.85 dB 4.27 dB 8.54 dB 17.08 dB

1/2 inch HELIAX 0.23 dB 1.15 dB 2.29 dB 4.58 dB
7/8 inch HELIAX 0.13 dB 0.64 dB 1.28 dB 2.56 dB
1-1/4 inch HELIAX 0.10 dB 0.48 dB 0.95 dB 1.90 dB
1-5/8 inch HELIAX 0.08 dB 0.40 dB 0.80 dB 1.60 dB

Table 3-2. Signal Loss in Coaxial Cables (at 400 MHz)

50 Feet 100 Feet
10 Feet 200 Feet
(15 (30.5
Cable Type (3 Meters) (61 Meters)
Meters) Meters)
RG-8A/U 0.51 dB 2.53 dB 5.07 dB 10.14 dB

1/2 inch HELIAX 0.12 dB 0.76 dB 1.51 dB 3.02 dB

7/8 inch HELIAX 0.08 dB 0.42 dB 0.83 dB 1.66 dB

1-1/4 inch HELIAX 0.06 dB 0.31 dB 0.62 dB 1.24 dB

1-5/8 inch HELIAX 0.05 dB 0.26 dB 0.52 dB 1.04 dB

3.5 Grounding Considerations

To minimize the chance of damage to the radio and connected equipment, a safety ground (NEC
Class 2 compliant) is recommended which bonds the Master Station, antenna system, and
connected data equipment to a single-point ground, keeping all ground leads as short as possible.
The Master Station should be grounded using the #6-32 screw and star washer provided for this
purpose on the rear panel.
The use of a lightning protector is also recommended where the antenna cable enters the
equipment building; bond the protector to the tower/mast ground, if applicable. All grounds and
cabling must comply with applicable codes and regulations.

Figure 3-2. Rear Panel Grounding Screw

20 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

3.6 Data Interface Connections
Ethernet Data Interface (RJ-45)
The Ethernet interface supports both radio management and payload data transport functions.
For radio management, connecting via a web browser provides enhanced functionality and ease-
of-use over serial/USB methods. Web-based management is the preferred and primary means of
accessing the transceiver through the built-in Device Manager.
SSH may also be used on this connector, and provides the same CLI based user interface
available via the serial/USB interfaces.
See section Ethernet Interfaces on Page 97 for electrical information and connector pinout.

Serial Data Interfaces

COM1 and COM2 provided on the front of the Platform Manager module serve as the serial
interface ports for payload data, radio management, or diagnostics. Management is also available
through the mini USB port. The default factory configuration for these serial ports depend on the
type of radio modules that are installed.

Table 3-3. Default Serial Port Assignment

Product variant COM1 COM2
MPRS Serial Payload Data System Console

MPRL System Console System Console

These ports are user-configurable for specific applications. The procedures for changing their
default operation are provided later in this guide.

Not all PCs have a serial port. If one is not available, a USB-to-Serial adapter and appropriate
driver software may be used to provide serial connectivity. These adapters are available from
several manufacturers, including GE MDS.

MPRS Serial Data Connection

When used as a data port for an SD Radio Module in Transparent or x710 modes, some pins on
COM1 and COM2 have special behavior determined by configuration. DCD (Data Carrier
Detect) is asserted when the radio received an on-frequency signal. RTS (Request-to-Send) can
be configured to key the transmitter when asserted. CTS (Clear-to-Send) can be configured to go
“high” after the programmed CTS delay time has elapsed (DCE), or can be configured to key
another connected radio when RF data arrives (CTS KEY)
The included Com Port Adapter Cable 73-2434A25 can be used to convert the unit’s RJ-45 serial
jack to a DB-9F type connector.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 21

 Table 3-4. RF-45 to DB-9F Pin Out
Signal RJ-45 DB-9F Standard RS-232

DSR 1 6 DSR
DCD 2 1 DCD
DTR 3 4 DTR
Ground 4 5 Ground
RXD 5 2 RXD
TXD 6 3 TXD
CTS 7 8 CTS
RTS 8 7 RTS
No connection N.C. 9 RI

Mini USB
The Mini USB port can be used to management the radio through a scriptable command line
interface (CLI) using the proper USB drivers available at www.gemds.com. Connect to the
management PC using the included Mini USB Cable. Once the PC registers the device driver,
the port will auto baud. The USB port provides CLI management only and cannot be used for
network diagnostics or for payload data.

Alarm Output and 4-Wire Audio

Alarm and audio signals are provided on the Alarm or Alarm/Relay module. Refer to Table 6-20
for details on pinout and signal descriptions. Audio signaling and alarm outputs are software
configurable. Refer to Section 5.0 Device Management for more information.

22 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

4.0 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
This section presents the steps necessary for installing the radio and connecting it to associated
equipment. After completing these steps, the radio is ready for in-service operation.

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Check the contents against the packing list secured to the outside of the shipping box.
Accessories and spare parts kits, if any, are wrapped separately. Inspect all items for signs of
damage. Save all packing materials in case you need to ship the radio in the future.

4.2 Installation Steps

The radio should be installed in a relatively clean, dust-free environment that allows easy access
to the connectors and indicators. Air must pass freely over the rear heat sink and around the unit
for proper cooling. Follow the steps below to install the unit and prepare it for initial startup.

The rear heat-sink will get hot under continuous or high duty-cycle transmission. Use caution
handling the unit while in operation.

1. Mount the Unit. The unit may be rack-mounted (2U high) in a 19-inch rack cabinet, or
may be placed on any sturdy tabletop or other flat surface. The installation site should be
free of excessive dust, and should have adequate ventilation. The chassis should be
positioned so that all interface cabling will reach the required connectors.
a. When rack mounting, the rack ears can be installed in one of three positions to
allow flexibility in the mounted depth of the chassis. The unit should be mounted
so as to maximize airflow around the rear heat sink.
2. Ground the Chassis. Use the ground screw provided at the rear panel to connect the
radio to a safety ground (NEC Class 2 compliant), which bonds the Master Station,
antenna system, and connected data equipment to a single-point ground. Keep all ground
leads as short as possible.

3. Connect Antenna Feedlines. All coaxial antenna connections are made to the Type-N
connectors on the rear of the unit. The number of connections depends on options
ordered, including duplexer options, as follows: Separate TX and RX; Combined TX/RX;
wired for an external notch filter with RX Out, RX In and combined TX/RX.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 23

 Figure 4-1. Internal Duplexer, Triple N connectors

Figure 4-2. Internal Duplexer (or internal T/R switch), Single N connector

Figure 4-3 External duplexer or dual antennas, Double C connectors

(TX and RX ports pass directly through)

4. Install the Data Interface Cabling. Interface connections are made to the front of the
Platform Manager module. Typical connections for most sites include:
24 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 - Serial Data—Attach data equipment to the front panel COM1 and/or COM2
ports. The unit is hardwired as a DCE device (DB9-F to RJ-45 connector, GE
MDS part no. 73-2434A25).
- Ethernet LAN—Attach data equipment to the ETH1 and/or ETH2 port. The
auto-sensing MDIX feature allows either a straight-through or crossover cable to
be used.
Where applicable in the steps that follow, secure all cable connections with the locking
screws provided.
5. Connect Primary Power—The Master Station is powered using one or two power
supply modules that work in tandem. The modules may be AC, DC, or a combination of
both. The following tables list each type and key operating parameters.
Table 4-1. AC Power Supply Module
Module Input Power Current Rating

6755 100-220 VAC, 50/60 Hz 120W Max.

All DC power supply modules have chassis isolated inputs and a diode bridge for floating
ground, positive ground, or negative ground installations. These modules include a keyed
power connector with screw-terminals. Strip the wire leads to 6mm (1/4 inch) and insert
them into the wire ports provided. Be sure to observe the polarity shown below. Tighten the
binding screws securely and insert the connector into the module. For compliance with
CSA, torque thumbscrews to 10in-lbs.
Table 4-2. DC Power Supply Modules
Module Input Power Current Rating

6843 +/- 12-36 VDC 10 A Max.

6844 +/- 36-75 VDC 3.5 A Max.

6845 +/- 75-140 VDC 2 A Max.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 25

 Figure 4-4 DC Power Connector
6. Connect a PC for Configuration (LAN or USB port). This prepares the Master Station for
programming of desired operating parameters. Configuration is further described in
Section 5.0 Device Management
If serial-based cabling is used for configuration, an adapter may be required at the
PC, as many PCs do not offer a serial port. In such cases, a USB-to-Serial adapter
(with appropriate driver software) may be used. These adapters are available from
a number of manufacturers.
7. Radio, Alarm/Relay, and Duplexer Connections—The Alarm/Relay module provides
two alarm outputs, one for major and one for minor alarms. This module also provides
TX/RX audio, PTT (TX keying), and analog RSSI connections. See “Alarm/Audio
Interface” on Page 110 for pinout connections.
All other required connections on the front of the unit are cabled at the factory per
ordered options.
8. Add connection of battery backup, as applicable.

Initial Startup & Operation

The radio is designed for continuous, unattended operation, but does require some minimal
provisioning before operation. This section explains the use of the radio’s indicators and
provides steps for initial startup of the equipment. Once a unit is provisioned, operator
intervention is not required, except to power the unit up or down, or to change an operating
parameter. Operation of the radio can be started by simply connecting primary power to the unit.

Module LED Indicators

All LED indicators are on the front of the unit. Platform Manager, Radio, and Alarm Modules
include LEDs. A redundant unit will be populated as shown above. A non-redundant unit will
have only one Radio Module and a different Alarm Module without RF connections.

26 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 PWR ALARM

USB

MAJ

MIN
PWR/ALARM PWR/ALARM
ACTIVE ACTIVE ALARM

B
ACT
TX TX A B
WiFi GPS
RX RX
A
AUTO
ETH1

ETH2
B

OUT

Alarm/Audio
COM1

COM2

RX RX
RF RF

A
TX/RX TX/RX

6834 6846 6846 6847

Figure 4-5 LED Indicators

Normal Indications
When power is first applied, the following events occur in a normally working unit:
• All front panel indicators light briefly
• The ACTIVE LED for the selected transceiver board lights.
• On SD radio modules, The Power LED will begin to flash indicating they have not yet
communicated with the platform manager.
• The Power LED and Alarm LED will light on the Platform Manager card. At this point the
platform manager is performing a pre-boot validation of the firmware to ensure that all
required security signatures are in place and valid.
• The Alarm LED will turn off and the Power LED will begin to flash. At this point the platform
manager is booting and initializing the system.
• Once the platform manager initializes the transceiver module, the Power LED will stop
flashing and turn solid.

Maximizing RSSI
Since the Master Station almost always uses an omni-directional antenna, maximizing signal
strength is done at the remote sites where directional antennas are typically used. An RSSI
stronger than -90 dBm is desirable. Refer to Section 5.0 Device Management for information on
monitoring the RSSI for the Radio Module.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 27

5.0 DEVICE MANAGEMENT
This section describes the steps for connecting a PC, logging in, and setting unit parameters. The
focus here is on the local serial/USB console interface, but other methods of connection are
available and offer similar capabilities. The key differences are with initial access and
appearance of data.
The MDS™ Master Station offers several interfaces to allow device configuration and monitoring
of status and performance. These include local serial console, USB, NETCONF, HTTP/HTTPS,
and Secure Shell (SSH) for local and remote access via the WAN and LAN networks. The serial
console, USB, and SSH services offer a command line interface (CLI). There are three user
accounts/roles for management access: admin, tech, and oper. User accounts can be centrally
managed with a RADIUS server, with RADIUS accounts being mapped to one of the three user
accounts/roles. Refer to MDS Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01) for details on
configuring RADIUS authentication.
The MDS™ Master Station is designed for high security environments. As such,
management of the device does not support Telnet, but instead implements the more
secure SSH protocol.

5.1 Pre-Configured Settings

The unit is highly configurable to meet field requirements, but comes pre-configured as follows:
• COM1 is configured at a baud rate of 115200, 8N1 for transparent serial payload for MPRS
master stations, and local console for MPRL master stations.
• COM2 is configured to operate at a baud rate of 115200, 8N1 and is enabled for local console
operation.
• USB is enabled for local console operation (proper system drivers must be installed on the
PC connected to the MDS™ Master Station to use the USB port as a virtual serial device;
these drivers are available from the GE MDS website).
• The Ethernet ports are bridged together, with spanning-tree protocol either enabled
(MPRS), or disabled (MPRL), with a default IP address of 192.168.1.1/24.

5.2 One-Time “Recovery” Passwords

The MDS Orbit platform employs extensive security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
As such, there are no hidden manufacturer passwords or other “backdoors” found in less secure
products.
If a password is lost, there is no way to access the unit, except by using a one-time password
(OTP) for recovery. The user must create this OTP manually. Without a one-time password, the
unit will not be accessible, and the hardware will need to be replaced. The factory will not be
able to assist you if a password is lost, so creating a one-time password is strongly encouraged.

One-Time Passwords: How They Work

One-time recovery passwords put control directly and exclusively in the user’s hands. They are
similar to spare keys for a lock. If you make a spare key, and put it away safely, you can take it
out to quickly gain entry when your primary key is lost. If you don’t make a spare, you are
always at risk of locking yourself out.
28 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
A one-time recovery password is different from the one used to log into the unit on a routine
basis. It is only for use when the primary password is lost or forgotten. When a one-time
password is used to log in, that password is automatically revoked from the list of passwords
created. (You may create up to five one-time passwords at one time, and more can be created if
some get used). Once used, a password cannot be used again for log-in to the unit (hence the
name “one-time” password)

Creating a One-Time Password

To create a one-time recovery password via the console, enter the following command, where
<selected function> is either “factory-reset” or “login”
> request system recovery one-time-passwords create function selected function

A one-time password is automatically generated and displayed on the screen. Copy this
password and save it in the desired location on your PC. There is no way to ever view it
again from the command line console, so be sure it is properly saved.
To create additional one-time passwords (up to a total of five), repeat the step above.

Logging in With a One-Time Password

Logging in with a one-time password can only be performed from the local serial or USB
console. Note the local serial cannot be used if configured as a payload or diagnostic interfaces
for SD radios (MPRS). You also cannot use a one-time password when connecting to the unit
remotely. Therefore, in some configurations, the USB console is the only option.
To use the one-time password for log-in, proceed as follows:
• At the username prompt, enter the word recovery.
• At the password prompt, paste in the one-time-password saved earlier on your PC. Using a
one-time-password forces the unit to perform the “function” which was previously defined
when the password was created:
• factory-reset—The unit resets its entire configuration to factory defaults
• login—The unit allows logging in with “admin” privileges
Special case: If someone has disabled console access on the USB port, the login prompt will still
be present on that console, but only one-time-passwords will be accepted. This is done to provide
a way to recover the unit in the case where the USB port has been disabled and the unit cannot be
accessed via TCP (for example; SSH).

Deleting a One-Time Password

As noted earlier, a one-time password is automatically revoked when it is used for log-in. A
revoked password may be replaced, but it must first be removed from the list so a new one can
be generated. Any of the five stored passwords may be removed on demand. As long as there is a
free slot, an additional password can be created, up to the maximum number of five. Logs are
generated when the user creates, deletes, or logs in with a one-time-password. To remove an
existing password from the list, proceed as follows:
Enter the command request system recovery one-time-passwords delete identifier <X>, where <X> is a
number from the currently available one-time passwords. This identifier is not reused. If all five
passwords have been created, then ID 1 can be deleted, and the next created password will be at
ID 6.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 29

The current list of passwords may be viewed by issuing the command show system recovery one-
time-passwords. The following is an example output from that command. On the unit shown, only
two passwords have been stored. Password 1 or 2 can be deleted from this list.
IDENTIFIER FUNCTION STATUS DATE CREATED DATE REVOKED USER
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1 login usable 2012-06-19T00:27:24+00:00
2 login usable 2012-06-19T00:27:25+00:00

5.3 Configuration via Command Line (CLI)

A scriptable command-line interface is accessible through the radio’s Ethernet port using Secure
Shell (SSH) terminal, or through the unit’s USB interface. For enhanced security, the unit does
not support Telnet configuration. The steps below describe a cabled USB connection and assume
the proper drivers have been installed.
1. Install the USB virtual serial port driver, which is available on the GE MDS web site.
2. Connect a PC to the unit's USB port and establish a console terminal session using a
serial communications program.
3. Press the ENTER key to receive the login prompt.
4. Enter the username (admin is the default username) and press ENTER.
5. At the Password prompt, enter the password (admin is the default password). Press ENTER.
Upon successful login, the connection message appears.
6. Enter the configuration mode by typing configure followed by the ENTER key.
7. Review and configure all key settings for the required application. Built-in help is
available by pressing the Tab key. A summary of all unit settings may be viewed by
entering the % show | details command.

Tab Completion Feature

is a powerful feature that provides assistance when typing commands in CLI.
Tab-completion
Depending on the text that was already entered, tab-completion displays different possible
completions. When the Tab key is pressed and no text has been entered, the CLI shows all
possible commands that can be typed.

CLI Quick Reference Table

Table 5-1. CLI Quick Reference Table provides a summary listing of commonly needed tasks
and the appropriate commands to enter. The table can be used as a quick reference before
consulting the more detailed information, which follows in this section. Each CLI command is
preceded by the symbol > for operational command, or % for a configuration command.

Table 5-1. CLI Quick Reference Table

If you wish to... Enter this CLI command:

Create a one-time password > request system recovery one-time-password create function <user
function>
View all network interface > show interfaces-state interface
status and statistics

30 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Table 5-1. CLI Quick Reference Table
If you wish to... Enter this CLI command:

Create a bridge % set interfaces interface bridge type bridge

Add the ETH1 interface to a % set interfaces interface bridge bridge-settings members port eth-0/0/0
bridge
Remove the ETH1 interface % delete interfaces interface bridge bridge-settings members port eth-
from a bridge 0/0/0
View LNMS settings > show configuration interfaces interface lnms ln-config
Monitor LNMS Status > show interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status | repeat 5
(RSSI,EVM, etc) NOTE: pressing ctrl-c will abort this command
Configure LNMS % set interfaces interface lnms ln-config rx-frequency <value>
Frequencies and/or
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config tx-frequency <value>
Configure LNMS Radio % set interfaces interface lnms ln-config power <value>
Power
View SDMS Settings > show configuration interfaces interface sdms sd-config
Monitor SDMS Status (RSSI, > show interfaces-state interface sdms sd-status | repeat 5
SNR, etc) NOTE: pressing ctrl-c will abort this command
Configure SDMS % set interfaces interface sdms sd-config radio-config basic-config
Frequencies receive-frequency <value>
and/or
% set interfaces interface sdms sd-config radio-config basic-config
transmit-frequency <value>
Configure SDMS Modem % set interfaces interface sdms sd-config radio-config basic-config
modem-type <modem>
Configure the SDMS Radio % set interfaces interface sdms sd-config radio-config basic-config
Mode radio-mode <radio mode>
Configure SDMS Radio % set interfaces interface sdms sd-config radio-config basic-config rf-
Power output-power <value>
Key/Dkey the SDMS Radio > request interfaces interface sdms sd-config maintenance rf-key-test
key radio true/false
Send a Remote Maintenance > request interfaces interface sdms sd-config maintenance remote-
Request to Remotes management-command <command name> <value>
View the routing table > show routing
View the event log > show table logging event-log
Set the admin user’s > request system authentication change-password user admin
password password admin1234
Set the device name % set system name “Mydevice”
Set the baud rate on COM1 % set services serial ports COM1 baud-rate b19200
Download a firmware > request system firmware reprogram-inactive-image filename sdms-
package from TFTP server at bkrc-1_0_0.mpk manual-file-server { tftp { address 192.168.1.10 } }
192.168.1.10
Monitor firmware download > show system firmware reprogramming-status
status
Export configuration file to a > request system configuration-files export filename myConfig.xml
TFTP server at 192.168.1.10 manual-file-server {tftp {address 192.168.1.10} }

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 31

 Table 5-1. CLI Quick Reference Table
If you wish to... Enter this CLI command:

Reboot device to firmware > request system power restart inactive

inactive image

5.4 Interface Naming

Interface naming of physical devices on the MDS™ Master Station uses the following format:
<type>-<slot>/0/<port>
Where type is one of the following values:
Interface Type Abbreviations

Type Description

eth Ethernet Interface

sd SD Radio Module

ln LN Radio Module

wifi WiFi Interface

Slot-0 is the slot identifier for the platform manager, while slots 1-3 map to the available
interface slots in the chassis.
Ports are zero-based and map to the port number of the given interface type in the specified slot.
Note that not all interface types have port values that are non-zero (e.g. An SD radio module
only has one “port”, so it will always be ‘0’)
The center 0 value in the interface name is always 0, and is reserved for future use.
Examples of valid interface names are
• eth-0/0/0 – The first Ethernet port on the platform manger card in slot-0
• eth-0/0/1 – The second Ethernet port on the platform manager card in slot-0
• sd-2/0/0 – The SD Radio module in slot-2.
• ln-1/0/0 – The LN Radio module in slot-1
Logical (non-physical) interfaces such as bridges and VLANs use free-form names and can be
renamed by the user.

5.5 Configuration via the Device Manager

The Device Manager is a built-in software tool that works with your PC’s browser to provide an
intuitive, web-style presentation of all unit information, settings, and diagnostics. Device
manager is accessible through ETH1 or ETH2 using a web browser.
Minimum browser requirements: IE10 or later, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.
For security, web access can be enabled/disabled via the CLI using the command % set

32 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 services web http(s) enabled true/false

General Configuration
For initial configuration of the Master Station, perform the following steps:
1. Connect the unit to a PC via an Ethernet connection.
2. Configure your PC network settings to an IP address on the same subnet as the unit. The
default subnet mask is 255.255.255.0.

For IP addressing the Master Station uses a routing prefix expressed in CIDR notation
instead of specifying a subnet mask. The CIDR notation is the first address of a network,
followed by a slash character (/), and ending with the bit-length (max 32) of the prefix.
A subnet mask is expressed in dot-decimal notation. For example, 192.168.1.0/24 is
equivalent to specifying 192.168.1.0 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0.
3. Open a web browser and navigate to the IP address of the unit (default Ethernet IP
address is 192.168.1.1). The initial sign-in prompt appears.

4. Enter the username and password (admin is the default entry for both fields), then click
‘Sign In’.
5. On first-time login, the Initial Setup Wizard will appear and provide guidance for general
device setup. This is disabled after the initial setup has been complete but may be re-run
at any time by accessing the Wizards link on the left side of the screen, and clicking
Initial Setup.
Key items that should be reviewed and/or set for the radio include:
• Create one-time programmable passwords for unit recovery
• Change login passwords (to maintain security)
• Evaluate default factory configuration and lock the unit down to the required security level
When the Initial Setup wizard completes, to configure SD interfaces (MPRS), select
WizardsSD Setup, which steps you through initial SD Radio Module configuration. Key items
that should be reviewed and/or set include:
• Radio Mode
• Frequency plan
• Modem selection
• Keying mode
• Repeater Configuration (if necessary)

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 33

 • Serial data interface configuration
• Encryption settings
Similarly Wizards Interface Setup will allow the user to configure the LN radio.

5.6 Interface Configuration

Understanding
A serial cable (RJ45 cable with proper ETH to DB9 converter) may be used to connect to a COM
port on the unit to access the CLI. The default serial console settings are 115200 bps with 8N1
format. A mini-USB-to-USB cable may also be used to connect to a Computer in case no serial
port exists. If a mini-USB connection is used, the computer must contain the appropriate device
driver. A driver for serial operation can be found on GE MDS website.

Configuring
The screen below shows console access to the COM1 serial and USB port:
Navigate to: Services  Serial  Basic Config

34 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Clicking on the row of the port you wish to edit will present you with the following options:

• Line Mode - Selection of the operation line mode of the serial port. Choices are:
- RS232 (DEFAULT)
- RS485 - 2 Wire
- RS485 - 4 Wire
• Baud Rate - The serial port baud rate in bps. Choices are 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,
19200, 38400, 57600, 115200 (DEFAULT), 230400
• Byte Format - The data byte format in bits, parity and stop bits: Choices are:
- 7N1 - 7 char bits, no parity, 1 stop bit
- 7E1 - 7 char bits, even parity, 1 stop bit
- 7O1 - 7 char bits, odd parity, 1 stop bit

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 35

 - 7N2 - 7 char bits, no parity, 2 stop bits
- 7E2 - 7 char bits, even parity, 2 stop bits
- 7O2 - 7 char bits, odd parity, 2 stop bits
- 8N1 - 8 char bits, no parity, 1 stop bit (DEFAULT)
- 8E1 - 8 char bits, even parity, 1 stop bit
- 8O1 - 8 char bits, odd parity, 1 stop bit
- 8N2 - 8 char bits, no parity, 2 stop bits
- 8E2 - 8 char bits, even parity, 2 stop bits
- 8O2 - 8 char bits, odd parity, 2 stop bits
• Hw Flow Control - Hardware flow control enable/disable (DEFAULT) using RTS/CTS
lines
• Vmin - Receive Buffer Size - The minimum number of data bytes that will be buffered by
the serial port before handling of the data to be processed by the terminal server. (255 =
DEFAULT).
• Vtime - Receive Inter-Byte Timeout - The amount of time between bytes of data on the
serial port (in multiples of 1 millisecond), that indicate the end of a serial message ready
to be processed by the terminal server. (100 = DEFAULT)
Vmin and Vtime setting only have an effect when the serial port is not being used an
SD payload or diagnostics (DLINK) port,
Serial Hardware Flow Control
When serial port is not being used as a SD payload or SD diagnostics (DLINK) port:
• Hardware Flow Control: When operating in CTSKEY mode, all serial ports in the data path
are required to be set to the same baud rate, and that VMIN and VTIME remain at the
defaults for serial data packets less than or equal to 255 bytes. For serial packets over 255
bytes it is recommended that a cts-delay time of at least 90ms be used to account for the
VTIME delay of the over-the-air sending unit.
Hardware Flow Control Modes
When port is not being used as a SD payload or SD diagnostics (DLINK) port:
• DCE
- CTS follows RTS after a programmable CTS delay.
- If the unit’s input buffer approaches a full condition it can deassert CTS
regardless of state of RTS.
• CTSKEY
- Based on legacy MDS devices including TransNET, the device will act similar to
a DTE but will provide signaling on the CTS line instead of the RTS line.
- When the first character of a transmission is ready to be sent to the serial port, the
unit shall assert CTS and delay for CTS delay time expiration before outputting the
first character.
- After the last character of a transmission is output from the serial port, the unit
shall keep CTS asserted until the expiration of CTS hold time.
• CTSKEYPLUS
36 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 - The unit shall support flow control (Throttling) on the RTS pin. The device is
expected to be wired via null modem to an external DCE device. The CTS line of
the external DCE device drives the RTS line of the unit.
Statistics for the Serial ports and IP Payload 1, 2, 3 are located under the active SD radio
interface (Interfaces  sd-x/0/0  Status  Statistics). See the section entitled “

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 37

 SD-x/0/0 Interfaces” for more details.

5.7 LAN
Understanding
This section will cover only the basic configuration of Ethernet ports and bridges. For
full details on the configuration of more advanced features, please reference the MDS
Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01)
The Master Station has external Local Area Network (LAN) ports ( ETH1/2 ports) that can be
used to connect to a local (wired) LAN. It supports both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses and may be
assigned multiple IP addresses. The LAN port can be assigned static IP addresses or a
dynamically allocated address can be assigned using DHCP.
The LAN port should be assigned IP addresses only if it is a routed interface (that is, not
in a bridge).

Configuring
To configure the LAN interface, select the eth-0/0/0 or eth-0/0/1. As shown in the screens below,
there are five groups of configuration settings that can be configured: General ETHx specifics,
IPV4, QOS, Filter, and NAT
Basic Config
Interfaces  eth-0/0/x  Basic Config

Figure 5-1. ETH1 Configuration Screen

• Description - User defined identifier for this connection - 0-34 characters
• Type - Identifier of the type of interface - Do Not Change
• Enabled - Checked indicates Enabled (DEFAULT). Disable will prevent usage.
• Eth Phy Rate - Choose the Ethernet speed support setting (DEFAULT ALL)
- Eth 10Mb Half
- Eth 10Mb Full
- Eth 100Mb Half
38 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 - Eth 100Mb Full
• Vlan Mode - Virtual LAN Setting.
- None (DEFAULT)
- Access - Use this if this interface is intended to be a member of only a single
VLAN.
- Trunk - Use this if this interface is intended to be a member of multiple VLANs.

• Enabled - Enable or disable the use of an IP address

• Forwarding - Indicates if IPv4 packet forwarding is enabled or disabled on this interface.
True (DEFAULT) / False
• Mtu - The size, in octets, of the largest IPv4 packet that the interface will send and
receive. Range 68-65535 - 1500 (DEFAULT). (Advanced setting)
• Address - Use for creating static IPv4 IP address and removing this interface from the
built-in Network Bridge.
• Neighbor- Use for creating mappings from IPv4 addresses to link-layer addresses.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 39

 • Filter Input - Use for selecting and applying a firewall filter (from available filters) to
incoming traffic on this interface.
• Filter Output - Use for selecting and applying a firewall filter (from available filters) to
outgoing traffic on this interface.
For more information on packet filtering, refer to “Access Control List (Packet Filtering /
Firewall)” in the MDS Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01)
• Input - Default Selections (others may have been added) :
- IN_TRUSTED
- IN_UNTRUSTED
- OUT_TRUSTED
- OUT_UNTRUSTED
• Output - Default Selections (others may have been added) :
- IN_TRUSTED
- IN_UNTRUSTED
- OUT_TRUSTED
- OUT_UNTRUSTED

See the MDS Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01) for information on configuring
NAT.

• Output - Use for selecting and applying a QoS policy (from the available QoS policies) to
the outgoing traffic on this interface. See "Quality of Service (QoS)" in the MDS Orbit
MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01) for more information on creating QoS policies.

5.8 Bridging
Understanding
The unit supports transparent bridging of LAN, and in firmware versions of 3.0.0 and higher,
WiFi and SD networks. The LN network supports Ethernet payload since its release in 4.0.0 The
bridge forwards traffic between LAN interfaces and wireless interfaces at the layer-2 of OSI
model. This allows LAN and wireless clients to be in the same IP sub-network.

40 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

The bridge learns the clients’ locations by analyzing the source address of incoming frames from
all attached networks. For example, if a bridge sees a frame arrive on LAN port from Host A, the
bridge concludes that Host A can be reached through the segment connected to LAN port.
Through this process, the bridge builds a forwarding table (the learning process). When a frame
is received on one of the bridge's interfaces, the bridge looks up the frame's destination address
in its forwarding table. If the table contains an association between the destination address and
any of the bridge's ports aside from the one on which the frame was received, the frame is
forwarded out the indicated port. If no association is found, the frame is flooded to all ports
except the inbound port. Broadcasts and multicast also are flooded in this way.
The bridged network is addressable via the ‘bridge’ interface (a virtual interface). The interfaces
that are in the bridge are called bridged interfaces. The interfaces that are not in the bridge are
called routed interfaces. Bridging is performed between bridged interfaces. Routing is performed
between routed interfaces. The bridge interface itself is a routed interface.
In firmware versions less than 3.0.0, the SD interface is not a bridgeable interface as
there is no packet or packet-with-MAC mode support in these versions of firmware.

Configuring
For full details on configuring bridge interfaces, please see the MDS Orbit MCR Technical
Manual (05-6632A01).

5.9 SDMS Interface

Understanding
The configuring of SD interfaces on the Master Station is performed through a virtual interface
called ‘sdms’ (SD Master Station). This virtual interface, much like a bridge interface, is
comprised of one or more sd-nic member physical interfaces. Each installed SDM Radio Module
contains a single sd-nic. All configurations applied to the virtual SDMS interface will be
propagated to all member sd-nic interfaces. This insures that all SD radio interfaces in the system
are using identical configurations so that interface fail-over is seamless.
To access the full suite of SD configuration options, select the sdms interface from the interfaces
drawer on the left-hand menu.
Understanding the use of Virtual Radio Channels (VRCs)
VRCs allow over-the-air data to be directed to specific interface ports (IP or Serial) on the radio.
Conceptually, this can be pictured as creating “pipes” for delivery of data to the desired radio
interfaces.
VRC works by associating data from a specific port (IP and Serial) with a VRC channel number
(1, 2, or 3). Each port at the receiving end then filters incoming data based on the associated
VRC number.
The Virtual Radio Channel (VRC) feature is only supported in Packet w/MAC modes. It
is not supported in Transparent or x710 mode.
To create the “pipes” that direct data to the desired ports, a route must be established using the IP
Payload Configuration Menu (or payload serial settings on the general configuration menu for
serial data). The default setting is to listen to all channels.) The Talk on parameter is used to
specify the VRC used for sending the data stream over the air, while the Listen to parameter
specifies the VRC(s) for incoming data.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 41

Any combination of the three VRC numbers may be entered in the selection fields. Figure 5-2.
Virtual Radio Channel (VRC) Concept illustrates the relationship between the VRC settings and
the routing of data between units.

Figure 5-2. Virtual Radio Channel (VRC) Concept

Understanding the use of Media Access Control (MAC)
An important feature of the transceiver is Media Access Control (MAC). The radio’s MAC is
specifically designed for use with narrow bandwidth, half duplex radio networks such as those
commonly used in licensed telemetry systems. When the MAC is enabled, it provides efficient
support of multiple data traffic models including multiple hosts, synchronous and asynchronous
polls, and report-by-exception (push traffic). MAC ensures that every transceiver in the network
has an equal probability of gaining access to the radio channel when it has data to send.
Coordination of Channel Access
The main objective of the MAC is to coordinate channel access for all radios in the network,
preventing data “collisions” that can occur with simultaneous transmissions from radios on the
same RF channel. With MAC operation, a single radio is configured as an Access Point (AP) and
other units are designated as Remotes. The AP serves as the controller of the RF network.
Remotes request permission from the AP to use the RF channel before sending payload data,
thus avoiding collisions of data, and creating a highly reliable wireless network. The MAC is
responsible for allocating which unit gets access to the broadcast medium (the RF channel),
when, and for how long.
Data Validation
Additionally, the MAC validates all messages and purges corrupted data from the system.
Successful delivery of data is ensured through the use of retries and acknowledgements. Minimal

42 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

overhead is used to accomplish these tasks, which translates to increased bandwidth efficiency of
the radio channel with minimal latency, ensuring that messages are delivered in a timely manner.
Status Tab
The Status tab on the sdms interface page gives an overview of the current state of the sdms
interface. The information displayed is described below:
General

This section shows a general overview of the SDMS interface. The current status of the relay
switch, as well as which SD NIC is currently active is displayed here.
The NIC Status table is composed of the following columns:
• Chassis Slot – The slot in which the SD NIC was discovered.
• Board Temperature – The current temperature in degrees C as measured on the surface
of the SD NIC. The colored indicator will transition to yellow and red as the NIC
approaches its operational limits.
• PA Temperature – The current temperature in degrees C of the power amplifier on the
SD NIC. The colored indicator will transition to yellow and red as the NIC approaches its
operational limits.

Configuration
From the sdms interface page, all SD related configuration options can be specified. Primary SD
network configuration can be found under the ‘Basic Config’ tab, more advanced options can be
found under the “Advanced Config” tab, and operational actions can be found under the
“Actions” tab.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 43

Basic Config Tab

General Settings
The Basic Settings contains important RF and modem selections for radio operation.

• Members – The Master Station (sdms) interface is a logical interface that is composed of
one or more physical SD interface cards (sd-nic). The ‘members’ configuration item is the
mapping between the logical sdms interface, and the physical sd-nic cards. A single sd-nic
resides in each SDM Radio Module.

44 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 This is factory configured to contain SDM Radio Modules in slot 1 and slot 2 of the
Master Station. If the Master Station is a non-redundant system with only 1 Radio
Module, this will contain only ‘sd-1/0/0’.
• Radio Mode – The radio can operate in one of several modes. The available selections
are:
- Packet with MAC – With and without AES Encryption
- x710 – When using the Master Station in a legacy x710 network.
- Transparent – With and without AES Encryption. (Transparent w/AES
Encryption requires an all SD radio network.)
• Modem Type – This setting determines the over-the-air data speed and bandwidth of the
radio’s transmitted signal. All radios in the network must use the same modem setting to
communicate with each other. The default setting is Modem 9600, but it may be set to any
of the selections shown in Table 5-2. Modem Selection vs. Speed, Bandwidth &
Sensitivity. The table also lists modem sensitivity ratings for the various modems. Note
that some modem choices are limited based on the model purchased.
• RF Output Power (dBm) – The RF output power may be set between 30 and 40 dBm (1
to 10 watts) in 1 dBm increments. The default setting is 40dBm. This setting represents
the output power at the Radio Module. Output power at the antenna port on the back of the
unit will be roughly 2dB to3dB less depending on configuration. This is due to cable,
switching, and duplexer losses. Full power is not required in many cases, and lower
settings will place less demand on the power supply and reduce the chance of interference
with other stations. Only the power necessary to carry out reliable communications should
be used.
• Transmit/Receive Frequency – The receive and transmit frequencies may be viewed or
set here. Frequencies must be entered for the radio to operate. Consult your station license
to determine the authorized frequencies for your system, and enter them exactly as listed.
• Keying Mode – Keying mode must be set to one of the following values:
- Data – Radio will key upon receipt of payload data.
- RTS – Radio will key upon receipt of an RTS (request to send) signal on the
serial port.
RTS keying mode is only supported when the radio is in x710 mode.
- Data or RTS – Radio will key upon receipt of either payload data or an RTS
(request to send) signal on the serial port.
- Continuous – Radio will be continuously keyed. This is primarily used in a
transparent streaming repeater configuration.
Continuous keying mode is only supported in x710 mode, or in transparent mode
when operating as a repeater.
• System ID – Provides the possibility for Frequency Re-use. System ID offers nine unique
choices including the default value of NONE. The setting NONE is required for mixed
networks comprised of MDS legacy and SD products. SD-only networks can utilize the
Frequency Re-use feature by setting the System ID to a common value [1-8] for all radios
in a specific network. System ID offers approximately 20 dB of additional co-channel
isolation when operating networks on the same frequency. Note that proper system design
is required.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 45
 Operational Example: SD System “Alpha” has eight units and SD System “Beta” has
eight units. A user wishes to occupy frequency 952.1235 MHz on both of these systems.
Proper system installation has been adhered to in both networks. System Alpha’s units
would all be set to System ID = 1, System Beta's units would be set to System ID = 5.
Both systems will now operate on the same desired frequency.
Examples of valid and invalid arrangements are shown in Figure 5-3 and Figure 5-4,
respectively.

Figure 5-3. System ID Example — Valid Arrangement

Figure 5-4. System ID Example — Invalid Arrangement

• FCC Part 90 Repeater Mode – Repeater mode must be set to one of the following
values:

46 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 - None – This is the default value, and is used when the Master Station being
configured is not to be used as a repeater in the network.
- Repeater – This value should be selected when the Master Station being
configured is to be installed as a repeater in the network, and will not have
devices connected to it that will be polled, such as attached RTUs.
- Repeater With Local Data – This is the same as “Repeater” but should be used
when data-collection devices such as serial RTUs will be attached directly to the
repeating Master Station.
• Allowed Ethernet Packet Types – When operating in packet-with-mac mode, and
sending Ethernet traffic, this option will restrict the types of Ethernet frames that will be
sent over the air. Options are:
- None – This will prevent any Ethernet frames from being transmitted over the air.
- All – All Ethernet frames will be sent over the air, regardless of type.
- Unicast Only – Only unicast packets will be sent over the air.
- Unicast and ARP – This is the default value and will only allow unicast frames,
or broadcast ARPs to be transmitted over the air.
• Serial Payload Port – The front-panel serial port that will be used for serial payload
communications. This can be set to COM1, COM2, or disabled if the system will not be
used for transmitting serial data. The default value for this is COM1.

Serial port settings such as baud rate and byte format are located under Services 
Serial  Ports.

• Payload Buffer – The transceiver’s buffer provides a way of handling data 'over-runs',
where more data is passing through the COM port than can be immediately handled by the
unit. When the payload-buffer is on, any such data is stored up and processed in the
appropriate order.
• Payload Serial Talk VRC / Payload Serial Talk 2 VRC – Serial data received on the
primary/secondary serial payload port will be tagged with this VRC and sent over-the-air.
• Payload Serial Listen VRC / Payload Serial Listen 2 VRC – Over-the-air payload
traffic that is tagged with this VRC that the Master Station receives will be transmitted out
of the primary payload serial port.
• Encryption – When the Master Station is being used in a network of only SD radios,
over-the-air (OTA) encryption may be enabled. The Master Station uses AES-128,
passphrase-based encryption to secure both payload, and Dlink traffic. If the radio is
operating in transparent mode, there is a separate passphrase for payload and Dlink traffic.
If the radio is operating in packet or packet-with-MAC mode, there is a singular
passphrase for all traffic.
• Payload Encryption Phrase – The encryption phrase to be used for over-the-air payload
data. This string must be at least 8 characters, and no greater than 38 characters.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 47

 Table 5-2. Modem Selection vs. Speed, Bandwidth & Sensitivity
Approximate
Modem Type Over-the-air ETSI
B/W (kHz) Sensitivity
Selection Speed (bps) Compliance
(dBm)

BELL1 1200 12.5 -110

V23 1200 12.5 -110

32001, 2 3200 5.00 -108

4800B1 4800 12.5 -110

4800F 4800 6.25 -108

9600B1 9600 12.5 -106

96001 9600 12.5 -112

9600N 9600 6.25 -98

19200N 19200 12.5 -100

19200 19200 25 -105

38400N 38400 25 -99

650003 65000 50 See note 3

48001 4800 12.5 -112 X

9600M1 9600 12.5 -106 X

19200E 19200 12.5 -96 X

19200M 19200 25 -106 X

38400E 38400 25 -97 X

1. For MDS x710-compatible operation.
2. 3200 bps not applicable to SD4.
3. Only available with SDM9D Radio Modules.

Dlink
Dlink is a GE MDS-proprietary protocol used for diagnostics communications.

48 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 • Unit – This parameter identifies the radio in the wireless network with a specific ID
during diagnostic sessions. For compatibility with legacy devices, the value must be
10000 or greater (2710 in hexadecimal).
• Type – This setting identifies the radio as a Node, Root, Repeater, Peer, or Gate. Each of
these are operating modes of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management
activities.
• Mode – Configure if Dlink will operate on a serial port, or via a TCP socket.
• Serial Mode Settings:
- Serial Port — This setting determines which serial port to use COM1 or COM2.
This must be different than the serial payload port.
• TCP Mode Settings:
- Security Mode – When set to a value other than none, connections will be
encrypted using a pre-shared key via TLS. The version specified by this
parameter will be only version allowed by the server.
- TCP Port – The TCP port that the Dlink service will listen on.
- IPv4 Addr – Optionally configure the service to only attach to the specified IPv4
Address. This is useful when traffic is being separated into data and management
VLANs. If no value is specified, the service will accept connections on all
configured IP addresses.
- IPv6 Addr – Optionally configure the service to only attach to the specified IPv6
Address. This is useful when traffic is being separated into data and management
VLANs. If no value is specified, the service will accept connections on all
configured IP addresses.
• Enabled – Enable or disable diagnostics functionality. Setting it to ON configures the
radio to pass the diagnostic link protocol (DLINK) over the radio’s COM2 management
port.

MAC Settings
When operating in packet with MAC mode, MAC specific settings can be configured here.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 49

 • Device Type – The role this device will be performing in the network. If this device is
operating as a repeater, the MAC device type MUST be 'remote'.
• MAC Retries – If a message is not acknowledged after transmission it will be resent. This
value controls how many times the radio attempts to resend the message before discarding
it.
• Time to Live – When a message arrives from the payload interface(s) it is time-stamped
and queued for radio transmission. If the radio cannot transmit the message before the
Time-to-Live (TTL) value (in seconds), the message is discarded. This helps prevent stale
or old data from being sent over the air.
• SAF Network (Access Point only) – If this device is in use in a Store-And-Forward
network, enable this option.
• Repeater Network (Access Point only) – If this device is in use in a repeater network,
enable this option.
• Payload 1/2 Inter Packet Gap – The inter-packet gap is a timing setting in ms used to
delimit a packet on the serial interface. Too short of a time can cause serial streams to be
combined into one large packet instead of two smaller ones. Too long of a time can slow
down the communications channel.
• Transparent Rx Timeout – This setting is similar to the timing parameters for Payload
1/2 Inter-Packet Gap, but it applies to data received over-the-air. It tells the radio how to
build an Ethernet packet based on a transparent data stream received over the radio
channel.
• Peer to Peer
• Access Point Options:
50 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 - Peer to Peer Enabled – If enabled, the AP will allow enabled peers to send
traffic through the AP to other enabled peers by rebroadcasting their
transmissions to all other remotes in the system.
- Ethernet Rebroadcast Type – When rebroadcasting peer-to-peer Ethernet
traffic, only the selected type of traffic will be rebroadcast to other remotes on the
network.
• Remote Options:
- Rebroadcast Serial – If enabled, serial traffic originating from this device will be
rebroadcast by the AP to other remotes in the network. The AP must have peer-
to-peer rebroadcasting enabled.
- Rebroadcast Ethernet – If enabled, Ethernet traffic originating from this device
will be rebroadcast by the AP to other remotes in the network. The AP must have
peer-to-peer rebroadcasting enabled.

IP Payload
Under the IP Payload menu, up to three instances of the IP Payload service may be configured.
The IP Payload service can operate in 4 different modes:
- TCP Server
- TCP Client
- TCP Server/Client
- UDP
Common Options:
• Enabled – Set to true to enable this IP Payload configuration.
• IP Payload Mode – The mode in which this instance of the IP Payload service should
operate. The details of these modes are shown below.
• Talk on VRC – (Only in packet-with-mac mode) The Virtual Radio Channel that data
from this IP Payload instance will be tagged with when transmitted over the air.
• Listen to VRC – (Only in packet-with-mac mode) Over-the-air data tagged with this
Virtual Radio Channel will be handled by this IP Payload instance.
• Modbus TCP RTU Conversion – (Does not apply to UDP mode) When enabled, the IP
Payload server will convert packets between MODBUS TCP and MODBUS RTU
formats.
• Inactivity Timeout – When set to a value larger than 0, the connection will be closed
after the specified number of seconds without any data activity.
Each of the IP Payload modes have different use cases and configuration options, as described
below:
TCP Server:
The TCP server mode allows IP connections to be established with the Master Station. Data
received on this TCP socket will be transmitted over the air to remote SD radios as if the data
was received on the payload serial port of the Master Station. Over-the-air serial data originating
from a remote SD radio will be transmitted out of this TCP socket. This mode of operation can
be thought of as a ‘remote terminal server’, not to be confused with the SD remote radio’s
Terminal Server functionality.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 51
TCP Server specific configuration options include:
• Local IP Port – The TCP port number that the server will listen for connections on.
• IPv4 Bind IP – If the Master Station is configured with multiple IP interfaces; you can
specify that the IP Payload service only will listen for connections on one of the IP
addresses of the system. This is useful in VLAN configurations where you wish to only
make the IP Payload server available on a specific VLAN in the system.
TCP Client:
The TCP client mode allows the Master Station to connect to a TCP server when there is traffic
to send. This mode of operation is not often used in Master Station configurations, but may be
useful in certain applications.

52 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

TCP Client specific configuration options include:
• Server IP Address – The IP address of the server the Master Station is to connect to.
• Remote IP Port – The TCP port that the server is listening on.
TCP Server/Client:
As the name implies, TCP Server/Client is a combination of the TCP Server mode, and TCP
Client mode. In this mode, the Master Station will listen for incoming TCP connections and pass
data exactly as in TCP Server mode. However if there is no active server connection, and over-
the-air payload traffic arrives at the Master Station, the Master Station will establish an outgoing
TCP connection to a remote server and transmit that data to the remote server. A use-case for this
mode of operation is if you wish to have the protocol reliability of TCP, but do not wish to
maintain active TCP sessions across your network.

TCP Server/Client specific configuration options include:

• Local IP Port – The TCP port number that the server will listen for connections on.
• Server IP Address – The IP address of the server the Master Station is to connect to.
• Remote IP Port – The TCP port that the server is listening on.
• IPv4 Bind IP – If the Master Station is configured with multiple IP interfaces; you can
specify that the IP Payload service only will listen for connections on one of the IP
addresses of the system. This is useful in VLAN configurations where you wish to only
make the IP Payload server available on a specific VLAN in the system.
UDP:
When operating in UDP mode, the IP Payload service uses the connectionless UDP protocol.
Since UDP is connectionless, there must be receiving sockets at each end of the connection to
allow for bi-directional communications. In this mode, when an application has traffic to send
out over the SD network, it will establish a UDP connection to the Master Station and transmit
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 53
the payload data. When the Master Station receives over-the-air payload data from remote SD
radios, the Master Station will establish a UDP connection to the application and transmit the
payload data. These connections are not persistent, and as such must be established for each
transmission. Unlike TCP, transmissions are not guaranteed when using the UDP protocol;
however UDP has a far smaller network overhead than TCP, and as such will result in lower
latency.

UDP specific configuration options include:

• Local IP Port – The UDP port number that the server will listen for connections on.
• Server IP Address – The IP address of the server the Master Station is to connect to.
• Remote IP Port – The UDP port that the server is listening on.
• IPv4 Bind IP – If the Master Station is configured with multiple IP interfaces; you can
specify that the IP Payload service only will listen for connections on one of the IP
addresses of the system. This is useful in VLAN configurations where you wish to only
make the IP Payload server available on a specific VLAN in the system.
IPv4
This configuration section allows you to configure either a static or dynamic (DHCP) IPv4
address to the SDMS interface when it is not a member of a bridge or VLAN interface. For full
information on applying IP addresses to interfaces, see the MDS Orbit MCR Technical
Manual (05-6632A01).

54 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Firewall Filter
The firewall filtering rules to apply to this interface when it is not a member of a bridge or
VLAN interface. For full information on applying firewall filters to interfaces, see the MDS
Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01).

VLAN
The VLAN configuration section is used to configure the SDMS interface to be a member of a
VLAN. For full information on configuring VLANs and adding interfaces to existing VLANs,
see the MDS Orbit MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01).

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 55

 NAT
The NAT configuration section is used to configure network address translation (NAT) on the
SDMS interface. For full information on configuring NAT on interfaces, see the MDS Orbit
MCR Technical Manual (05-6632A01).

56 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Advanced Configuration Tab

Advanced Configuration

• Soft-Carrier Dekey – Specifies how long (in ms) to wait after the removal of the keying
signal before actually dropping the transmitter’s carrier. The default setting is 0, but it may
be set to any value up to 255 ms. In most cases, no change is required from the default
setting. A possible exception is when the transceiver is inter-working with certain early-
generation MDS radio equipment.
• Push to Talk Signal – Specifies the sensing polarity of the PTT line. This must be
configured to one of the following values:
- Off – PTT line is not used.
- Hi – The PTT line is active-high.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 57
 - Lo – The PTT line is active-low.
• Push To Talk Delay – Specifies a brief time delay after a keying event, which must
expire before the radio is allowed to transmit. The allowable range is 0 to 255 ms, with the
default being 0.
• Clear To Send Delay – Specifies a brief time delay between when an RTS (ready-to-
send) signal is received and when the CTS (clear-to-send) signal is returned. The
allowable range is 0 to 255 ms, and the default is 0.
• Automatic Freq. Correction – Automatic Frequency Correction, is used to counteract the
slight RF frequency drift that may occur over time or through wide swings of ambient
temperature. AFC should only be enabled when operating this device as a remote, as all
remotes in the system use AFC to track the master station frequency. Under normal
operation, the modem is capable of compensating for small frequency errors even with
this mode disabled. Enabling AFC further extends the frequency capture range when
operating with legacy hardware that may have significant frequency error.
• Switched Carrier B Modems – In some networks, the Master unit is not keyed
continuously (Ckeyed), and transmits only when it has data to send to Remotes. This is
known as Switched Carrier operation. The Switched Carrier setting is only for use with the
9600B modem (for compatibility with MDS x710 radios). In such networks, the Remote
radios should have the Switched Carrier setting turned ON. The default setting is OFF
which assumes B-modem operation with a continuously keyed Master. Ckey operation
only applies to Master units operating full-duplex and does not apply to legacy-packet or
packet with MAC modes. When operating continuously keyed, latency is decreased and
AFC operation on legacy remotes may be improved. Switched carrier operation, when low
latency is not required, is recommended when operating in high ambient conditions to
reduce power consumption and heating.
• Force DCD to Asserted – Some systems require a constant Data Carrier Detect (DCD)
signal. This setting allows the radio to be configured to provide a DCD signal without the
need for special cabling.

Enabling Force DCD to Asserted will cause the RX LED on the radio interface to
turn on, regardless of whether the radio is receiving data or not.
• Data Key Hold Time-out – When operating in data key mode, this parameter specifies
the number of character-times the transmitter will remain keyed for after the last character
it receives. For networks with the demand for a higher modem speed than the baud rate of
the serial port, this parameter can be adjusted from 1 to 10 characters. This parameter
gives the overall network better performance by preventing frequent key-up and key-down
sequences between characters. This only applies to networks with all SD radios.
• Simplex Mode – This controls whether or not the Master Station will be running in
simplex (switched carrier) or full duplex mode. When simplex is enabled, TX and RX are
switched onto a single RF interface. A Master Station without an internal duplexer with a
single antenna output must have simplex mode enabled.
• Dlink Mode (B Modems) – Legacy products that only support B-Modems do not have
support for Dlink. Newer products such as the MDS SD have the ability to support Dlink
even when using B-Modems. Depending on site-specific requirements, this value may
58 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 need to be changed to ‘bypassed’ in order to work with legacy products. It is
recommended to leave this value set to ‘auto’ unless there is an explicit need to change it.
• Rx Mute – The number of milliseconds to mute the receiver after transmitting data.
Receive muting might be required when you configure the radio as a full-duplex polling
remote communicating through a repeater. It prevents the radio from hearing its own
transmissions ('echoes') from the repeater, which might cause software application errors.
• Rx Timeout Enable – When enabled, the radio will alarm if nothing has been received
over-the-air in 'Rx Timeout Delay' minutes. This can used to detect if the receiver has
failed, or if there has been a failure with the antenna.
• Rx Timeout Delay – When ‘Rx Timeout’ is enabled, this is the number of minutes to wait
for a received signal before raising an alarm.
• Legacy Packet Compatibility – When the radio-mode is configured for packet-with-mac,
enabling this option will cause the radio to operate in a legacy packet mode. This is not
full packet mode as found on SD radios, as there is no support for listen-before-talk.
• Modem Receive Tolerance – Changes the receive tolerance of the modem. This value
should always be set to normal unless instructed to change it by GE MDS technical
support for specific applications.
• Modem Transmit Tolerance – Changes the transmit tolerance of the modem. This value
should always be set to normal unless instructed to change it by GE MDS technical
support for specific applications.
• Data Device Mode (x710 mode only) – This value controls the device behavior of the
radio when operating in x710 mode. In DCE mode, CTS will go high following RTS,
subject to the CTS programmable delay time. CTS KEY mode, the unit is assumed to be
controlling another radio. The radio will still key based on the RTS line, but the CTS line
is used as a key-line control for an external radio. CTS is asserted following the receipt of
RF data, but not until after the CTS programmable time has expired. (This gives the other
radio time to key.)
• CTS Hold Time (x710 mode only) – Used in CTS KEY mode, this command sets the
amount of time in milliseconds that CTS remains present after transmission of the last
character out the RXD pin of the DATA port. This 'hold time' can be used to prevent
squelch tail data corruption when communicating with other radios.
• RSSI out Enabled – When enabled, the current RSSI value will be available as a DC
voltage level on the RSSI out pin of the alarm/relay module. NOTE: This feature requires
SD NICs that are capable of generating an output voltage based on RSSI. If you attempt to
enable this feature on hardware that does not support it, you will receive an error message
preventing you from committing the changes.
• RSSI out 0-Point – When RSSI out is enabled, this is the RSSI level (in dBm) that will
result in an output voltage of 0 mV
• RSSI out mV per dBm – When RSSI out is enabled, this is the voltage (in mV) that will
be produced for each dBm of signal strength above the level specified in rssi-out-0-point.
e.g. Given a zero point of -120dBm, and a mv-per-dbm value of 50mV, an RSSI of -
84dBm would result in an output of 1800mV.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 59

Audio
Audio settings are only available for configuration when the radio is configured to
operate in x710 compatibility mode.

• Audio Enabled – If enabled, the radio’s transmit functionality will switch to analog
whenever PTT is asserted.
• Rx Level – Receive audio output level to modem (dBm). Received signal at the peak
deviation will be scaled to the specified value. Valid range is (-20  0).
• Tx Level Auto – Automatically adjust transmit audio input level from Modem.
• Tx Level – Transmit audio input level from modem (dBm). A transmit input signal of the
specified value will translate into the specified peak deviation for transmit. Valid range is
(-20  0).
• Emphasis – When enabled, pre-emphasis is applied on the transmitter and de-emphasis is
applied on the receiver. This setting is typically used in operation with voice radios.
• Squelch – When set to auto, the transceiver will use its internal squelch to enable
transmission of audio signals. When set to bypassed, the transceiver will transmit all audio
signals regardless of level.
• Vox Enabled – Enables or disables the integrated VOX threshold circuit.
• Vox Threshold – The audio interface on the Master Station incorporates an integrated
VOX circuit to sample the voltage produced by a connected audio device. When the
voltage exceeds a user-defined threshold, Push to Talk (PTT) is activated, resulting in the
transmitter being enabled. The VOX circuit detects a voltage in the range of 0-2 Volts. A
single number in the range of 0-15 is used to describe the desired threshold level. For
example a value of 7 is approximately 1 volt.

60 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Enabled Alarms
This configuration section controls which of the various alarms that can be generated on the SD
NIC will be propagated up to the platform manager for system logging. All alarms default to
being enabled, and should remain enabled unless there is an explicit need to disable one.

RTU Simulator
The unit’s built-in RTU simulator generates random data similar to what would be supplied by
an external RTU connected to the radio. It is useful for system testing within the radio network
by providing realistic data to pass over the radio channel.

• RTU Enabled – Enable the built-in RTU simulator.

• RTU Number – The RTU number the simulator will respond to requests for.
Remote SD Reprogramming
This section contains various parameters for the broadcasting of new firmware to remote SD
radios. Please see section Remote SD Reprogramming on page 65.

Actions
Force Alarm
From the Force Alarm menu, you can force the SD radio interface cards to enter a test alarm
state. To activate an alarm, select which radio slot to alarm, and click the Perform action button.
An “Alarm Test” entry will be created in the Event Log and the external alarm output status is
changed. This can be useful when testing event logging and propagation across a network, or
when testing equipment connected to the alarm output contacts on the Master Station. When
enabled, the alarm will assert for 30 seconds, and then deactivate. If active, it can be manually
deactivated prior to timeout by deselecting the slot number of the radio and clicking the Perform
action button again.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 61

 Link Test
The primary use of the Link Test is to verify that a specific radio's settings are consistent with
the initiator including: Assigned frequency, unit number setting, encryption (if enabled), etc.
Also collected at the same time is an indication of link quality. All radios are always ready to
respond to a Link Test message. Only the initiating radio requires configuration when using the
Link Test screen and it is only available when operating in Packet w/MAC mode.
A summary of data statistics is displayed on the right side of the screen, including
transmit/receive packet counts, total bits, and total number of bit errors.

• Destination Address – The unit address of the other radio being tested.
• Count – The number of times for the message to be sent across the radio link.
• Timeout – The time (in milliseconds) that will result in a timeout if no response is
received within that period.

62 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Perform Failover
If the Master Station is equipped with redundant SD radios, the active radio can be manually
toggled by selecting the “Perform action” button.
The manual toggle-switch on the alarm/relay board must be in the ‘Automatic’ position
for this operation to succeed. The toggle-switch will override all software-based control
of which radio is active.

Remote Management Command

The Master Station has the ability to broadcast management commands to remote SD radios in
the network. These commands are sent to all connected remote radios, and hence should only be
used for making network-wide changes.

The following action can be specified:

• Reboot – All remote radios will reboot to the currently active firmware image.
• Set Radio Mode – Change the radio mode of remote radios (x710/transparent/packet-
with-MAC)
• Set Frequencies – Set the receive and transmit frequencies of remote radios.
• Set Modem Type – Change the configured modem of remote radios.
• Set Transmit Tolerance – Change the configured transmit tolerance of remote radios.
• Set System ID – Change the configured system ID of the remote radios.
• Enable Bridge – Enable or disable Ethernet bridging on remote radios.
• Enable Encryption – Enable or disable OTA encryption on remote radios.
• Set Payload Encryption Phrase – Change the payload encryption phrase on remote
radios.
• Set Dlink Encryption Phrase – Change the Dlink encryption phrase on remote radios.
(Only used in transparent mode)
• Set SCD – Change the Soft Carrier Dekey value on the remote radios.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 63
 • Repeater Network Change – Change remote parameters that may need to be configured
when running in a network which uses a MDS™ Master Station as a repeater.
• Generic Dlink Message – Broadcast a custom Dlink command to all units on the system.
Arguments include the Dlink register to write to (in hex, no leading ‘0x’), and the DLink
value to write (in hex, no leading ‘0x’). The hex argument values must be full octects (e.g.
‘0F’ instead of ‘F’.
With the exception of the reboot command, these actions will cause permanent loss in
connectivity to the Master Station until the corresponding configuration changes are
made to the Master Station itself.
Remote SD Firmware
Please see section “Remote SD Reprogramming” below.
RF Key Test
Using the RF Key Test action, the active radio can be manually keyed (transmitter enabled) or
de-keyed (transmitter disabled). This may be useful when diagnosing signal-strength on a remote
receiver.

Spectrum Analyzer
A unique feature of the transceiver is the ability to view the RF spectrum above and below the
operating frequency using its built-in Spectrum Graph. Often, this can assist in diagnosing the
cause of interference, or to view other signals near your operating frequency. To use the
Spectrum Graph, you must first specify a center frequency and a scan width. The center
frequency is the frequency that you wish the spectrum display to be centered on. The span
frequency defines the width of the overall spectrum to be examined.
Once the correct values have been entered, switch it on by sliding the on/off switch. The graph
will automatically refresh itself every 5 seconds. To stop scanning, turn the on/off switch off.

64 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Remote SD Reprogramming
OTA Reprogramming Overview
This feature is for reprogramming SD remote radios only. This will not reprogram other
Master Stations on the network.
The DLink “Root” is the central location from which polling originates. Other locations in the
network should be designated as “Nodes” which are the receiving stations. Over-the-air firmware
upgrades should always be initiated from the Root. This ensures that all radios in the network
will be properly updated.
The Master Station broadcasts a series of messages to one or more remote nodes to accomplish
the reprogramming process. The “broadcast” method is used to program the greatest number of
radios in the shortest amount of time; however, the Master Station remains unaware of the
number or success of downstream radios participating in reprogramming.
During reprogramming, the status of the reprogramming will be available on all the radios
participating in the process. Because the initiator is “broadcast-only” this status can only indicate
progress toward sending out of all of the messages. On the nodes, the progress toward
completion of reception of reprogramming information is indicated.
Receiving stations can automatically reboot to the new image after successful reprogramming.
Alternatively, there is an OTA reboot command that can be broadcast from the Master Station to
all receiving stations. This last option instructs the receivers to reboot to a specific firmware
revision if available, and not already running at that revision.
Reprogramming Parameters:
The setting for over-the-air reprogramming are found under the “Advanced Config” tab on the
web UI.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 65

 • Channel Usage – Set to either Intrusive or Passive as desired.
- Passive (Non-intrusive) operation “piggy-backs” reprogramming data onto
normal payload data streams, thus allowing payload data to continue
uninterrupted, but will be slower than intrusive operation. This mode requires
payload data to be sent so that the reprogramming data can be carried. See Table
5-3 for reprogramming times.
- Intrusive operation means that the payload application data will be interrupted
while programming data is sent over the air. This is the fastest method of
programming radios over the air, but it comes at the cost of interruptions in the
primary use of the radio network. For best results, data polling should be stopped
during Intrusive Reprogramming. See Table 5-4 for reprogramming times.
• Block Size – Sets the overall block size (in bytes) of each data packet. Default setting is
512.
• Auto-Reboot – When enabled, the remote radios will automatically reboot after a
firmware image upgrade. If disabled, the newly loaded image will not become valid until
the remote radio is rebooted manually.
• Packet Size – Specifies the size of the reprogramming data packets. Default size is 40.
• Retry Count – Specifies the number of times each transmission is repeated. Default
setting is 3. Decreasing this value will decrease reprogramming times, but increase the
chance of a remote radio not properly receiving a packet.
• Download Delay – Introduce a time delay before reprogramming begins. Typically, it is
set to Short, but may be increased incrementally by selecting one of the extended delay
times from the drop-down box (Short, Medium, Long, None)

Table 5-3. Approximate Reprogramming Times - Passive Mode

66 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
 Modem Speed (bps) Approximate Time Required

4800 6 hours
9600 1 hour, 30 minutes
19200 1 hour, 30 minutes

Radio assumptions: Signal strength -85 dBm or stronger, Packet Size: 40, Block Size:
512, Retry: 3, Download Delay: Short.
Polling assumptions: Serial polling with 1-second poll time, sending random data at 50-
100 bytes. Slower polling times will significantly increase completion time.
Table 5-4. Approximate Reprogramming Times - Intrusive Mode
Modem Speed (bps) Approximate Time Required

4800 1 hour, 30 minutes

9600 30-45 minutes
19200 20-25 minutes

Radio assumptions: Signal strength -85 dBm or stronger, Packet Size: 40, Block Size:
512, Retry: 3, Download Delay: Short
Polling assumptions: Polling should be temporarily suspended while OTA
reprogramming is active.
Start Reprogramming
When ready to reprogram the SD firmware, click the Start Reprogramming action.

• File Source – There are many file transfer protocols supported, select Local File to upload
directly from your browser, or HTTP / FTP / SFTP / TFTP to have the MDS™ Master
Station retrieve the file from a remote server.
• Local File (Browser Upload) – Click the “Select File” to choose a file, and press “Begin
Reprogramming”
• URL (HTTP only) – Enter a valid URL (e.g http://192.168.1.1/file.mpk) pointing to the
firmware.
• Server Address (All) – Use this field to enter a valid IP address for the host computer
(where file to be transferred resides).
• File Path (TFTP/SFTP/FTP) – This field is used to enter the exact name of the file and
path to be imported.
• Block Size (TFTP) – The TFTP block size to use when transferring the file. Default is
1024.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 67
 • Port (TFTP) – The TCP port that the TFTP server is operating on.
• User Name (SFTP/FTP) – The user to connect to the SFTP/FTP server as.
• Password (SFTP/FTP) – The password for the SFTP/FTP server.
• Control Port (SFTP/FTP) – The TCP port that the SFTP/FTP server is operating on.
Default is 22 for SFTP and 21 for FTP.
• Data Port (FTP) – The TCP port that the FTP server uses for data connections. Default is
20.
• Timeout (All) – Determines the amount of time (in seconds) that the radio should wait for
server to respond. The default setting is 30 seconds and will not normally require any
change.
When the above fields have been set and you are ready to load a new file, click the Begin
Reprogramming button to begin reprogramming. To view the current status of the remote
reprogramming operation, navigate to the sdms interface status page.
Cancel Reprogramming
During the reprogramming operation the user has the ability to cancel reprogramming at any
time either on the Master Station, which will affect all radios, or on individual receiving stations.
Note that cancelling reprogramming at the Master Station results in all radios in the network
having only one (instead of two) applications programmed in their image banks. That is, the
“inactive” image (which was only partially upgraded) will be corrupt and unusable until
reprogrammed at a later time.
Reprogramming Status
Once reprogramming has begun, the current reprogramming status will appear beneath the
“Cancel Reprogramming” button.

68 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Monitoring
Statistics
Interfaces  sdms  Status  Statistics

• Discontinuity Time – The time on the most recent occasion at which any one or more of
this interface’s counters suffered a discontinuity or interruption of service.
• In Octets – The total number of octets received on the interface, including framing
characters.
• In Unicast Pkts – The number of packets, delivered by this sub-layer to a higher (sub-
)layer, which were not addressed to a multicast or broadcast address at this sub-layer.
• In Multicast Pkts – The number of packets, delivered by this sub-layer to a higher (sub-
)layer, which were addressed to a multicast address at this sub-layer.
• In Discards – The number of inbound packets which were chosen to be discard even
though no errors had been detected to prevent their being deliverable to a higher-layer
protocol. One possible reason for discarding such a packet could be to free up buffer
space.
• In Errors – For packet-oriented interfaces, the number of inbound packets that contained
errors preventing them from being deliverable to a higher-layer protocol.
• Out Octets – The total number of octets transmitted out of the interface, including
framing characters.
• Out Unicast Pkts – The total number of packets that higher-level protocols requested be
transmitted and which were not addressed to a multicast or broadcast address at this sub-
layer, including those that were discarded or not sent.
• Out Discards – The number of outbound packets which were chosen to be discarded even
though no errors had been detected to prevent their being transmitted.
• Out Errors – For packet-oriented interfaces, the number of outbound packets that could
not be transmitted because of errors.

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Performance
Interfaces  sdms  Status  Performance

• Measured RF Power – Read-only indication of the measured RF output power (in dBm).
• Signal to Noise (SNR) – Read-only indication of the signal-to-noise ratio of the received
signal.
• RSSI – Read-only indication of the measured received signal strength (in dBm).
IPv4 / IPv6

70 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

5.10 SD-x/0/0 Interfaces
Configuration for each SD Radio Modules is done via the SDMS interface. Each individual
interface provides statistics for serial, IP payload and MAC that could be helpful in a debugging
situation.

General
Interfaces  sd-x/0/0  Status / General

This screen is read-only and displays the status of the SD NIC interface.

Statistics
Interfaces  sd-x/0/0  Status / Statistics
Sd Statistics
This section will contain statistics on the MAC, COM Ports, and IP Payload (1-3).

• Discontinuity Time - The time on the most recent occasion at which any one or more of
this interface’s counters suffered a discontinuity or interruption of service.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 71

 • Com 1 Tx Bytes – The total number of transmitted bytes on the COM1 port.
• Com 1 Rx Bytes – The total number of received bytes on the COM1 port.
• Com 2 Tx Bytes – The total number of transmitted bytes on the COM2 port.
• Com 2 Rx Bytes – The total number of received bytes on the COM2 port.
• Pmux Tx Packets – The total number of data packets transmitted.
• Pmux Rx Packets – The total number of data packets received.
• Com 1 Tx Packets – The total number of transmitted packets on the COM1 port.
• Com 2 Tx Packets – The total number of transmitted packets on the COM2 port.
• Eth Tx Packets – The total number of transmitted packets on the Ethernet port.
IP Payload (1, 2 or 3) Statistics

• Tx Packets – Total number of transmitted packets.

• Rx Eth Bytes – Total number of received bytes on the Ethernet.
• Rx Eth Packets – Total number of received packets on the Ethernet.
• Tx Eth Bytes – Total number of transmitted bytes on the Ethernet.
• Tx Eth Packets – Total number of transmitted packets on the Ethernet.
• Rx Radio Bytes – Total number of received bytes through the radio.
• Tx Radio Bytes – Total number of transmitted bytes through the radio.

72 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 • Tx Radio Packets – Total number of transmitted packets through the radio.
• Rx Radio Failed Bytes – Total number of received bytes failed through the radio.
• Rx Radio Failed Packets – Total number of received packets failed through the radio.
• Tx Eth Failed Bytes – Total number of transmitted bytes failed on the Ethernet.
• Tx Eth Failed Packets – Total number of transmitted packets failed on the Ethernet.
• TCP Keepalive Timeouts – Total number of TCP Keepalive Timeouts by the radio.
MAC Statistics

• MAC Tx Frames – Total number of transmitted frames on the MAC.

• MAC Rx Frames – Total number of received frames on the MAC.
• MAC Checksum Fails – Total number of checksum failures on the MAC.
• MAC Tx Data Frames – Total number of transmitted data frames on the MAC.
• MAC Tx Contention Frames – Total number of transmitted contention frames on the
MAC.
• MAC Tx Contention Grants – Total number of transmitted contention grants on the
MAC.
• MAC Tx Contention Requests – Total number of transmitted contention requests on the
MAC.
• MAC Retries – Total number of retires on the MAC.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 73

 • MAC Acknowledgements – Total number of MAC frames acknowledged by the access
point. (when operating as a remote)
• MAC TTL Expirations – Total number of frames dropped due to expired time-to-live
counters.

5.11 LNMS interface

Understanding
Licensed Narrowband Modules are available in various global frequencies.
The term “LN” is used to denote all licensed narrowband modules within the Orbit family.
Specific identification, such as “LN400,” is used when necessary to reference band-specific
hardware.
The LN NIC modules are reliable point-to-multipoint, wireless data transmission products. An
LN NIC can operate as an Access Point or Remote.
Licensed Narrowband modules provide robust long-distance communication in channel
bandwidth sizes of 6.25KHz, 12.5KHz, and 25KHz. Depending on bandwidth, raw data rates
range from 20kbps to 120kbps. The radio is suitable to interface both Ethernet and Serial
controllers such as PLCs, RTUs and SCADA systems while offering greater throughput then
traditional FSK solutions. The module utilizes QAM modulation, a highly efficient PA, and a
direct conversion receiver to provide dependable wireless communications. An advanced Media
Access Control (MAC) provides advanced interference avoidance, error detection,
retransmission, auto repeat, and guaranteed collision free data. 10-Watts of peak power and
dynamic FEC extend coverage to up to 50 miles.

The specifications for the LN400 NIC module:

 Frequency Range(s): 406-470 MHz, 330-406 MHz
 FCC Part 90 (private land mobile radio services)
 FCC ID: E5MDS-LN400
 ICID: 101D-LN400

The specifications for the LN700 NIC module:

 Frequency Range(s): 757-788 MHz
 FCC Part 90 (private land mobile radio services)
 FCC ID: E5MDS-LN700
 ICID: n/a

The specifications for the LN900 NIC module:

 Frequency Range: 896-960 MHz
 FCC Part 90 (private land mobile radio services) & Part 101
 FCC ID: E5MDS-LN900
 ICID: 101D-LN900

74 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

The general specifications for all LN NIC modules are:
 Peak Power Output: 20 dBm to 40 dBm peak power in 1.0 dBm steps (DEFAULT = 40 dBm)
 Output Impedance: 50 Ohms
 Antenna Connector: TNC female
 Modulation Type: QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM
 FEC: Convolutional and Reed Solomon
 Data Rates: 20kbps - 120kbps

Multiple modulation rate / bandwidth combinations are provided; as seen in Table 5-5.
Table 5-5. Modulation and Bandwidth for LN radios
RF Modem QPSK 16QAM 64QAM
Channel Symbol (x2) (x4) (x6)
Bandwidth rate OTA rate OTA rate OTA rate

6.25 KHz 4800 sps 9600 bps 19200 bps 28800 bps

12.5 KHz 9600 sps 19200 bps 38400 bps 57600 bps

12.5 KHz 10000 sps 20000 bps 40000 bps 60000 bps

25.0KHz 16000 sps 32000 bps 64000 bps 96000 bps

25.0KHz 20000 sps 40000 bps 80000 bps 120000 bps

NOTE The only required steps for basic configuration are: Program transmit and receive frequencies
per user licensing; program a network name in all units; establish one unit as the AP
Minimal configuration is necessary but several advanced tuning facilities are provided.
By default the radio ships from the factory with a 12.5KHz bandwidth and 10k-symbol/sec data
rate. Modem operation is configured for Adaptive Modulation with FEC disabled. Transmit
and Receive frequencies are unprogrammed and left to field installation personnel to prevent
inadvertent operation on the wrong channel.
For the advanced user, the module supports configuring more items including:
 Data Retries - Number of times to retry unicast data before declaring NACK.
 Power – RF output power control.
 ARP Cache – Feature that limits over-the-air ARP traffic
 Data and Header Compression – facilities to use LZO data compression for payload and robust
header compression to reduce packet overhead
 FEC – facility to selectively enable Forward Error Correction trading off speed and robustness
 Allow Retransmit – facility to enable peer-to-peer traffic
In general, it is recommended that users start with the simplest configuration and then make
parameter changes as necessary to meet specific needs.
NOTE To meet country specific regulatory requirements, some parameter restrictions may be
configured by the factory. These settings can NOT be changed or modified by the user.

See Table 6-14. LN Interface LED Descriptions for details on how to interperate the LEDs on
an LN radio.

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 Important Notes and Information Regarding EVM
EVM (error vector magnitude) is dependent on the modulation format and should be used as a
relative measurement of the link quality. A low EVM value indicates a better link quality than a
high value. Algorithmically, using QAM modulation, the transceiver calculates the value by
measuring the sample points of each "bit" and comparing it with the expected constellation based
on the modem type.
- EVM is a metric of the quality of the received signal. It is a dynamic value that is computed
only when data is received on the RF interface, and should be refreshed accordingly.
- Unlike RSSI which simply measures signal strength, EVM is a measurement of the
"correctness" of this signal. (This means how easily the received signal can be correctly
demodulated.)
- In general the lower the EVM the better the quality. A strong link will typically show an EVM
below 5.
Adaptive Modulation
The adaptive modulation mode (modulation automatic) allows directed traffic to adjust which
modem is used on a per-transmission basis. Adaptive modulation works in both upstream and
downstream mode. The mode selection varies between QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM. A signal
metric score is used to decide which modem selection to use. The score is determined based on
signal strength and packets received. Advanced configuration can be used to provide some
control over the adaptive modulation thresholds.
The primary use case for this feature is if an AP has some remotes that are close to the AP and
could support a higher data rate and some farther away (or obstructed) that can only support a
lower data rate. This mode allows the close remotes to take advantage of the higher data rate for
the directed messages, when otherwise the whole network would have had to be run at the lower
data rate. Note that broadcast or multicast data must always be transmitted at the lowest rate.
We recommend keeping adaptive modulation set for most installations.
Security
Setting the security mode to EAP or PSK will enable device authentication. When enabled, the
remotes will authenticate with the AP (PSK) or a backend RADIUS server (EAP) before they are
allowed to pass data on the network. The authentication protocol is compliant with IEEE 802.1X.
If device authentication is enabled, over the air data encryption can also be enabled. This ensures
all over the air traffic is protected. When encryption is enabled, the device must occasionally
rotate the encryption keys. This rotation is logged in the event log with event type nx_auth.
These events can be suppressed in the event log configuration to prevent them from filling the
event log. See the MCR Technical Manual for instruction on controlling the event log.

76 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Configuring
Basic configuration with defaults
Navigate to: Interfaces / lnms ---> Basic Config / LN Radio

Figure 5-5. Licensed Narrowband (LN) Configuration Settings

 Members – The ln-nic interfaces that are used for this configuration
 Device Mode - Sets the role the radio will assume in the network.
- Remote (DEFAULT)
- AP
 Network Name - The name of the network. Used to control what networks the radio connects
to. Valid values: 1 to 31 letters (DEFAULT is mds_ln). The network name string is used to
identify the logical network that the device should join. If the network name does not match,
the device will log an event to identify network name collisions.
 Data Compression – Over the air compression
- lzo - Compresses the over the air traffic with the LZO algorithm (DEFAULT)
- none - No data compression
 Header Compression – Enabled by DEFAULT. Enable/disable over the air robust header
compression. This feature compresses IP headers to improve system performance, and is most

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 77

 useful in applications that rely on IP packets with small payloads, such as terminal server
operations or MODBUS polling. This setting must match on each radio (Remote and AP).
 Power - The transmit power of the radio: Valid values: 20 - 40 dBm – DEFAULT is 40dBm
 TX Frequency – The frequency at which the radio transmits.
 RX Frequency – The frequency at which the radio receives.
 Channel - Controls the channel bandwidth and symbol rate of the radio.
- 6.25 kHz-4.8 ksps - Channel width 6.25 kHz, symbol rate of 4.8 ksps
- 12.5 kHz-9.6 ksps - Channel width 12.5 kHz, symbol rate of 9.6 kbps
(DEFAULT)
- 12.5 kHz-10 ksps - Channel width 12.5 kHz, symbol rate of 10 kbps
- 25 kHz-16 ksps - Channel width 25 kHz, symbol rate of 16 kbps
- 25 kHz-20 ksps - Channel width 25 kHz, symbol rate of 20 kbps
NOTE Some channel configurations may not be available for use because of country restrictions.
 Modulation – Sets the radio’s modulation. You may select automatic (adaptive modulation),
or choose from three fixed modulations.
- Adaptive modulation (DEFAULT)
- QPSK
- 16QAM
- 64QAM
Automatic modulation adaptively selects which modem (QPSK, 16QAM, or 64QAM)
is used on a per-transmission basis. This is useful in networks with some remotes close
to the Access Point, and others farther away or obstructed. This mode allows the close
remotes to take advantage of the higher data rate for the directed messages, while the
remotes use a more conservative modulation.
Radios with fixed modulation settings will operate only at the modulation that you
specify. If the specified modulation is higher than the connection can support, no
traffic will flow. If the connection can support a higher modulation than the selected
modulation, the radio will not take advantage of this and will continue to use the fixed
modulation. We recommend that Adaptive Modulation be used in all cases other
than bench tests.
Theoretical throughput is based on modulation and channel settings. Please refer to
Table 5-5 above.
 FEC -- Forward Error Correction is useful in controlling errors in weak connections. FEC
encodes data in a redundant fashion to allow data correction in a noisy or weak connection
without the additional overhead of retransmission.
- Disabled (DEFAULT). No Forward Error Correction will be used. This option provides the
highest throughput and standard sensitivity, and is suitable for strong connections.
- Low Gain – Provides better sensitivity, while still offering good throughput.
- Adaptive – Provides the best sensitivity and standard throughput. Adaptive on a per-packet basis.
NOTE It is critical to have FEC set identically on the AP and all Remotes.

78 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Figure 5-6. Licensed Narrowband (LN) PSK Security Settings

Figure 5-7. Licensed Narrowband (LN) EAP on remote Security Settings

Figure 5-8. Licensed Narrowband (LN) EAP on an access point Security Settings
 Security Mode - The type of over the air authentication to perform
- none - Provide no device authentication or data privacy (DEFAULT)
- psk - Use pre-shared key authentication protocol
- eap - Use Encapsulated Authentication Protocol - will change the fields displayed and give the
user the ability to enter radius info on the AP and certificate info on the remote.
 Encryption - The type of over the air encryption to perform
- none - No data privacy (DEFAULT)
- aes128-ccm - Protect data with 128-bit AES encryption using CCM mode
- aes256-ccm - Protect data with 256-bit AES encryption using CCM mode
 Passphrase - The passphrase used in PSK mode, 8 to 64 letters. (DEFAULT=blank)
 Certificate ID, Key ID, CA Certificate ID (Remote EAP mode only) – Reference to the
remotes certificate material loaded through the Certificate Management side menu.
 Radius Server (AP EAP mode only) – A reference to the RADIUS server configuration
configured through the System – RADIUS side menu item.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 79

  Rekey Interval (AP only) – The session key for an active secure link changes at a regular
basis. You may increase the length of the rekey interval in order to reduce overhead caused by
the rekeying communications between radios on a narrowband channel. Valid values:
- 0 – Rekeying will not be time-based, but will instead occur every one million packets.
- 30-525600 minutes, DEFAULT 180.
NOTE Remember to click on the Save button when finished.

Advanced Configuration

Figure 5-9. Licensed Narrowband AP Advanced Settings

Figure 5-10 Licensed Narrowband (LN) Remote Advanced Settings

The Advanced Setting menu appears slightly different on APs than on Remotes.
 Data Retries - Number of times to retry unicast data before declaring failure. Valid values:
0—15, DEFAULT = 3.
 Packet TTL (Time-to-Live) – Length of time, in milliseconds, of inactivity of all over-the-air
traffic before registering a disconnection. The radio will then attempt to reconnect to the
network. Valid values: 100 to 65535 ms, DEFAULT = 2000 (2 seconds).
80 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
  Remote Age Time – Length of time, in seconds, of inactivity of a remote before it is
disconnected. Valid values: 180-4294967295 seconds, DEFAULT = 600 (10 minutes).
 Endpoint Age Time (AP only) - Length of time in seconds of inactivity on an endpoint before
it is removed from the endpoint database. Range of 0 to 4294967295 seconds.
DEFAULT = 300 (5 minutes).
 Allow Retransmit (AP only) – All traffic from the remotes is sent to the AP. When enabled
the AP will retransmit traffic from one remote to another based on the MAC address. It will
also resend any remotes broadcast traffic to all other remotes. Disabled by DEFAULT.
 NIC ID (Remote only) – ADVANCED SETTING - DO NOT CHANGE - Manually
overrides the NIC identifier.
 ARP Cache – Enabled by DEFAULT. When enabled, the radio will respond to ARP requests
intended for other network devices with known addresses. It will not forward the ARP to the
intended device. This is similar to ARP proxy.
 QAM 16 Threshold – When the radio is using automatic modulation, it will automatically
switch to QAM 16 modulation when the averaged calculated RSSI value drops below this
value. Valid values: -100 to 0 dBm, DEFAULT = -85 dBm. If you set the value to 0, this
modulation is disabled.
 QAM 64 Threshold – When the radio is using automatic modulation, it will automatically
switch to QAM 64 modulation when the averaged calculated RSSI value drops below this
value. Valid values: -90 to 0 dBm, DEFAULT = -70 dBm. If you set the value to 0, this
modulation is disabled.

Monitoring
General Interface information: Interfaces / lnms  Status / General

Figure 5-11. Licensed Narrowband (LN) AP Status

 Type - The type of the interface. Licensed Narrowband radios appear as “ln.”
 Admin Status - The desired state of the interface.
 Oper Status - The current operational state of the interface.
 If Index - The index value for this interface in the Orbit’s interface table. Valid values
are: 1-2147483647
 Phys Address- The interface's address at its protocol sub-layer. For a LN module, this object
normally contains a MAC address.

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 Statistics - A collection of interface-related statistics objects.

Figure 5-12. Licensed Narrowband (LN) Statistics

 Discontinuity Time - The time on the most recent occasion at which one or more of this
interface's counters suffered a discontinuity.
 In Octets - The total number of octets received on the interface, including framing characters.
 In Unicast Pkts - The number of packets, delivered by this sub-layer to a higher (sub-)layer,
which were not addressed to a multicast or broadcast address at this sub-layer.
 In Multicast Pkts - The number of packets, delivered by this sub-layer to a higher (sub-)layer,
which were addressed to a multicast address at this sub-layer.
 In Discards - The number of inbound packets which were chosen to be discarded even though
no errors had been detected to prevent their being deliverable to a higher-layer protocol. One
possible reason for discarding such a packet could be to free up buffer space.
 In Errors - For packet-oriented interfaces, the number of inbound packets that contained
errors preventing them from being deliverable to a higher-layer protocol.
 Out Octets - The total number of octets transmitted out of the interface, including framing
characters.
 Out Unicast Pkts - The total number of packets that higher-level protocols requested be
transmitted, and which were not addressed to a multicast or broadcast address at this sub-layer,
including those that were discarded or not sent.
 Out Discards - The number of outbound packets which were chosen to be discarded even
though no errors had been detected to prevent their being transmitted.
 Out Errors - For packet-oriented interfaces, the number of outbound packets that could not be
transmitted because of errors.
Ln Radio Status Monitoring:
Interfaces / lnms  Status / Ln Radio

82 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Figure 5-13. Licensed Narrowband (LN) Status
The following status items appear on both APs and Remotes (unless stated otherwise)
General  Init Status - State of the NIC Initialization
- Off - Not operating
- Initializing - Powering on the NIC
- Discovering - Determining the NIC address
- Reprogramming - Programming the NIC firmware
- Configuring - Configuring the NIC
- Complete - Initialization complete
 Current Device Mode – Read-only display of the active mode the lnms is operating.
 Alarms - The current NIC alarms:
- synthesizer-out-of-lock: Synthesizer is out of lock. Call GE MDS tech support for assistance.
- radio-not-calibrated: Radio was not calibrated. Call GE MDS tech support for assistance.
- internal-temp: The radio’s internal temperature exceeds the operating threshold.
 Firmware Revision - NIC Firmware Revision.
 Temperature - The transceiver temperature in degrees C.
Modem Stats

 Modem Tx Success – Number of packets successfully transmitted by the modem.

 Modem Tx Error – Number of transmit errors reported by the modem.
 Modem Rx Success – Number of packets successfully received by the modem.
 Modem Rx Error – Number of receive errors reported by the modem.
MAC Stats

 MAC Tx Success - Successful transmissions.

 MAC Tx Queue Full - Failed transmissions, MAC queue full.
 MAC Tx Error - Packets dropped for other reasons.

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  MAC Tx Retry - Re-transmission count due to previously unsuccessful transmission.
 MAC Rx Success - Valid packet received.
 MAC Rx Error – Received packets dropped due to error.

Last RX Packet

 Last RSSI – The RSSI measured at the time of the last received packet.
Last Error Vector Magnitude – The EVM measured at the time of the last received packet.
For more information, refer to See Table 6-14. LN Interface LED Descriptions for details on
how to interperate the LEDs on an LN radio.
Important Notes and Information Regarding EVM
 Last Modulation – The modulation measured at the time of the last received packet.
 Rate – The calculated over the air rate from Table 5-5.
Hardware Info

Figure 5-14 Licensed Narrowband (LN) Hardware Info

Information about the Licensed Narrowband NIC’s hardware is also displayed on the LN
Radio’s Statistics menu. This information may be helpful when calling technical support.
Connections Status (AP Only)
In AP mode the “Connected Remotes” and “Endpoints” information will be displayed in addition
to the Active Channel.

Figure 5-15. Licensed Narrowband (LN) AP Connection Status

84 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Remote’s AP Info (Remote Only):

Figure 5-16. Licensed Narrowband (LN) Remote’s AP Information

 AP Address - MAC address of access point this device is linked to.
 IP Address - IP address of access point this device is linked to.
 Connected Time - Time elapsed in seconds since link established. After 4294967295 seconds,
the value displayed rolls over to 0.
 RSSI - The RSSI measured at the time of the last received packet. If using this reading to align
an antenna or gather link status information, we recommend setting the page refresh to 3
seconds.
 EVM - The Error Vector Magnitude measured at the time of the last received packet. For
more information, refer to See Table 6-14. LN Interface LED Descriptions for details on how
to interperate the LEDs on an LN radio.
 Important Notes and Information Regarding EVM
 Rx Modulation - The modulation measured at the time of the last received packet.
Test Mode
Interfaces / lnms  Actions

Test Mode provides a way to place the transmitter on the air to check the measured RF power
output, measure reflected power from an antenna system, or to provide a signal at a receiving
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 85
station so that RSSI can be checked. While in Test Mode, a radio will not operate normally and
does not communicate with the narrowband network.
To enter or exit Test Mode, select the desired test state from the State drop-down box and click
Perform Action.
 Time – The time, in minutes, to remain in test mode before automatically resuming normal
operation. We recommend that you remain in test mode 10 minutes or less.
 State -
- Receive – Enter Receive mode to check the RSSI of a received signal.
- Keyed – Key the transmitter. To prevent damage to the radio, the unit will stop keying after one
minute and automatically transition to the Receive state.
- Stop – Stop all test operations and exit test mode.
Test Values
 Test Mode Time – The length of time test mode has been running.
 Test State – Receive, Keyed, Stop. The current test state.
 Test RSSI (Receive Mode only) – The current signal RSSI.

CLI Configuration Examples

AP Mode
On the next page, the example will display how to configure the LN module as an access point
with the network name of ‘MyNetwork’ and default settings. For this example we assume a
transmit frequency of 451.4 MHz and a receive frequency of 456.4 MHz. Your own LN
frequencies must be set according to your user license.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config device-mode access-point network-name MyNetwork
tx-frequency 451.4 rx-frequency 456.4
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
members [ ln-1/0/0 ln-2/0/0 ];
device-mode access-point;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;
power 40;
tx-frequency 451.4;
rx-frequency 456.4;
channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode none;
encryption none;
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
packet-ttl 600;
remote-age-time 600;
endpoint-age-time 300;
allow-retransmit true;

86 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 arp-cache false;
qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}

Security configuration
The default security mode, as shown above, is none.
The following configures the LN module to use pre-shared key authentication with the
passphrase 'mypassphrase' and aes256-ccm encryption.
NOTE When viewing the configuration, the passphrase that you entered is not displayed in plaintext.
This is a security measure.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config security encryption aes256-ccm security-mode
psk passphrase mypassphrase
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
device-mode access-point;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;
power 40;
tx-frequency 451.4;
rx-frequency 456.4;
channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode psk;
encryption aes256-ccm;
passphrase $4$BfPtSlDWFNhtqe4ZcJTWQQ==;
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
packet-ttl 600;
remote-age-time 600;
endpoint-age-time 300;
allow-retransmit true;
arp-cache false;
qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}
The following configures the LN module to use data compression, EAP authentication and
aes256-ccm encryption. The radius server used by the EAP authentication is selected from a list
of configured Radius servers.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config security encryption aes256-ccm security-mode
eap radius-server RADIUS_SERVER
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
device-mode access-point;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;

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 power 40;
tx-frequency 451.4;
rx-frequency 456.4;
channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode eap;
encryption aes256-ccm;
radius-server RADIUS_SERVER;
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
packet-ttl 600;
remote-age-time 600;
endpoint-age-time 300;
allow-retransmit true;
arp-cache false;
qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}

Remote Mode
The following will configure the LN module as a Remote with the network name of
'MyNetwork' and default settings. For this example we assume the inverse of the AP frequency
plan – a transmit frequency of 456.4 MHz and a receive frequency of 451.4 MHz. Your own LN
frequencies must be set according to your user license.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config device-mode remote network-name MyNetwork tx-
frequency 456.4 rx-frequency 451.4
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
device-mode remote;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;
power 40;
tx-frequency 456.4;
rx-frequency 451.4;
channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode none;
encryption none;
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
nic-id 0;
inactivity-timeout 600;
remote-age-time 600;
arp-cache false;

88 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}

Security Configuration
The default security mode, as shown above, is none. The following configures the LN module to
use pre-shared key authentication with the passphrase “mypassphrase” and aes256-ccm
encryption.
NOTE When viewing the configuration, the passphrase that you entered is not displayed in plaintext.
This is a security measure.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config security encryption aes256-ccm security-mode
psk passphrase mypassphrase
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
device-mode remote;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;
power 40;
tx-frequency 456.4;
rx-frequency 451.4;

channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode psk;
encryption aes256-ccm;
passphrase $4$BfPtSlDWFNhtqe4ZcJTWQQ==;
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
nic-id 0;
inactivity-timeout 600;
remote-age-time 600;
arp-cache false;
qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}
The following configures the LN module to use data compression, EAP authentication and
aes128-ccm encryption. The EAP mode currently supports only EAP-TLS. This requires
configuring the appropriate PKI Certificates and Keys to use in the TLS authentication. This
information is selected from the PKI configuration.
% set interfaces interface lnms ln-config security encryption aes128-ccm security-mode
eap eap-mode eap-tls pki ca-cert-id CACert key-id DevicePrivKey cert-id DevicePubCert
% show interfaces interface lnms ln-config | details
radio-mode standard;
device-mode remote;
network-name MyNetwork;
data-compression lzo;
header-compression true;

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 89

 power 40;
tx-frequency 456.4;
rx-frequency 451.4;
channel 12.5KHz-9.6ksps;
modulation automatic;
fec false;
security {
security-mode eap;
encryption aes128-ccm;
eap-mode eap-tls;
pki {
cert-id DevicePubCert;
key-id DevicePrivKey;
ca-cert-id CACert;
}
}
advanced-config {
data-retries 3;
nic-id 0;
inactivity-timeout 600;
remote-age-time 600;
arp-cache false;
qam16-threshold -85;
qam64-threshold -70;
}

Monitoring
Ensure the CLI is in operational mode.
Access Point Mode
The following shows status with two stations connected.
> show interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status
ln-status init-status complete
ln-status current-device-mode access-point
ln-status alarms ""
ln-status firmware-revision 0.2.4
ln-status temperature 45
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-success 5401378
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-error 0
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-success 37645
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-error 11
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-success 72699
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-queue-full 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-error 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-retry 132
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-success 17952
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-error 498
ln-status last-rx-packet last-rssi -128
ln-status last-rx-packet last-evm 255
ln-status last-rx-packet last-modulation qam64
ln-status last-rx-packet rate 96

90 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 ln-status hardware-info serial-number 2673840
ln-status hardware-info hardware-id 0
ln-status hardware-info hardware-revision 0
ln-status test test-mode-time 0
ln-status test test-state stop
ln-status connected-remotes 00:06:3d:09:14:7d
ip-address 10.15.65.145
time-to-live 767
link-status associated
rssi -67
evm 0
rx-modulation qam64
device-stats tx-packets 730
device-stats tx-bytes 108661
device-stats rx-packets 721
device-stats rx-bytes 215575
device-stats tx-error 10
device-stats rx-error 0
device-stats tx-drop 0
device-stats rx-drop 0
nic-id 1

Remote Mode
The following shows status when connected to a configured Access Point.
> show interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status
ln-status link-status associated
ln-status init-status complete
ln-status current-device-mode remote
ln-status alarms ""
ln-status firmware-revision 0.2.4
ln-status temperature 43
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-success 33116
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-error 0
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-success 197463
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-error 55283
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-success 11424
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-queue-full 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-error 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-retry 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-success 13390
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-error 1
ln-status ap-info ap-address 00:06:3d:09:0d:d8
ln-status ap-info ip-address 192.168.1.51
ln-status ap-info connected-time 174
ln-status ap-info rssi -68
ln-status ap-info evm 0
ln-status ap-info rx-modulation qpsk
ln-status last-rx-packet last-rssi -68
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-success 33116
ln-status modem-stats modem-tx-error 0
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-success 198622
ln-status modem-stats modem-rx-error 55283
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 91
 ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-success 11424
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-queue-full 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-error 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-tx-retry 0
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-success 13390
ln-status mac-stats mac-rx-error 1
ln-status ap-info ap-address 00:06:3d:09:0d:d8
ln-status ap-info ip-address 192.168.1.51
ln-status ap-info connected-time 226
ln-status ap-info rssi -68
ln-status ap-info evm 0
ln-status ap-info rx-modulation qpsk
ln-status last-rx-packet last-rssi -68
ln-status last-rx-packet last-evm 0
ln-status hardware-info serial-number 2661832
ln-status hardware-info hardware-id 0
ln-status hardware-info hardware-revision 0
ln-status test test-mode-time 0
ln-status test test-state stop

Test Mode
Ensure the CLI is in operational mode.
To enter Test Mode and key the transmitter for 5 minutes:
> request interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status test-mode state keyed time 5
To enter Test Mode’s receive state for 5 minutes:
> request interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status test-mode state receive time 5
To exit Test Mode:
> request interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status test-mode state stop
To display the current test state:
> show interfaces-state interface lnms ln-status test

92 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

5.12 LN-x/0/0 interfaces

Figure 5-17 ln-x/0/0 Ln statistics

The lnms interfaces shows the active nics statistics while the ln-nic interface shows the statistics
of each nic, active or not. It has the additional parameter of active nic, which indicates if this nic
is active in particular. All other parameters are the same as the lnms interface.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 93

6.0 MASTER STATION MODULES
The available modules are listed below and described in the following sections. To aid
identification, most modules have their 4-digit base part number printed on the faceplate. These
are the 4 numeric digits following 03- prefix.
Table 6-1. Available Modules
Identifier Item Description

6755 100-220V AC Power Supply Module 100-220 VAC, 50/60 Hz. 120W Max AC Power Supply
Module. Spare power supply can be used in either of two
power supply slots of the MDS™ Master Station.

6834 Platform Manager Module Provides management and data interface functions.

6837 Duplexers Spare duplexer in tray wired for MDS™ Master Station.

6843 +/- 12-36 V DC Power Supply Module +/- 12-36 VDC. 10 A Max. DC Power Supply Module. Spare
power supply can be used in either of two power supply
slots of the MDS™ Master Station.

6844 +/- 36-75 V DC Power Supply Module +/- 36-75 VDC. 3.5 A Max DC Power Supply Module. Spare
power supply can be used in either of two power supply
slots of the MDS™ Master Station.

6845 +/- 75-140 V DC Power Supply Module +/- 75-140 VDC. 2 A Max DC Power Supply Module. Spare
power supply can be used in either of two power supply
slots of the MDS™ Master Station.

6846 Narrowband Radio Module: SMD9, Full duplex SD-compatible radio module or LN-compatible
SDM4, LN9, LN7, or LN4 QAM radio module

6847 Redundant Alarm/Relay Module Active radio relay and alarm/audio interface.

6848 None-Redundant Alarm Module Non-redundant—Alarm and audio interface.

94 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

6.1 AC Power Supply Module

Figure 6-1 AC Power Supply Module

(Part No. 03-6755A02: 110/220 VAC)
Table 6-2. 6755 AC Power Supply Module Specifications
Supply Type SMPS AC to DC

Input Voltage Range 100-264 VAC

Output 24 VDC, 4.0A
Line Frequency 50-60Hz
Power Consumption 120W, Maximum
Protection Integrated thermal protection, short circuit protection,
internal non-serviceable fuse
Ambient Temperature range Full capacity from -30°C to +60°C.
CSA certified operating range -30°C to +39°C.

Master station power supply modules are field replaceable units that can
be removed from an operating system so long as the input power source
to the module being replaced has been disconnected. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing
Modules for information on removal and installation.

When installing AC Power Supply modules, torque thumbscrews to 10

in-lbs, or approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to insure optimum heat
transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 95

6.2 DC Power Supply Module

Figure 6-2. DC Power Supply Module

Including: 03-6843A01: +/- 12-36 VDC

03-6844A01: +/- 36-75 VDC
03-6845A01: +/- 75-140 VDC
Table 6-3. DC Power Supply Module (6843, 6844, 6845) Specifications:
Supply Type SMPS DC to DC

Input Voltage Range +/-36-75 VDC, input is isolated from ground

+/-12-36 VDC, input is isolated from ground
+/-75-140 VDC, input is isolated from ground
Output 24 VDC, 4.0 A
Line Frequency DC Input only
Power Consumption 120W, Maximum
Protection Integrated thermal protection, short circuit protection, internal fuse
Ambient Temperature range Full capacity from -30°C to +60°C
CSA Certified operating range -30°C to +50°C

Master station power supply modules are field replaceable units that
can be removed from an operating system so long as the input power
source to the module being replaced has been disconnected. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing
Modules for information on removal and installation.
DC power supply modules are available for several different input
ranges. These modules have interchangeable connectors. Make sure
the supply is within the rating for the module installed.
When installing DC Power Supply modules, torque thumbscrews to 10
in-lbs, or approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to insure optimum heat
transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.
When connecting DC Power Supply modules, the length of the power
cable MUST be no longer than 3 meters.

96 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

6.3 Platform Manager Module

Figure 6-3 Platform Manager Module

The Platform Manager module is an orbit based management processor that provides Ethernet
and serial connectivity to radio cards connected on the Master Station backplane. This module
features a 10-port Ethernet switch and USB hub for backplane connectivity to a number of radio
modules.
The Platform Manager module does not support hot swappable field
replacement; power must be removed from the system before removal or installation of this
device. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing Modules for information on removal and
installation.
The Platform Manager is available with and without GPS for time of day and synchronization
purposes for future radio module offerings. When ordered with WiFi, the Platform Manager
module may be configured using a tablet, smartphone, or other WiFi enabled web device.
The Interfaces on the front panel of the Platform Manager are described below. Note that the
small connector on the bottom right, just above the part number, is currently unused.

Platform Manager LED Indicators

The Platform Manager has BLUE LEDs to indicate Platform Manager power on, system
initialization, and Master Station alarm status. The behavior of these LEDs is described below.
Table 6-4. Platform Manager LEDs
LED
Behavior Meaning
Name
BLUE Power Applied
PWR
FLASHING System Initialization
BLUE Pre-boot Validation or System Initialization
ALARM FLASHING BLUE Master Station Alarm
OFF No Alarm

Ethernet Interfaces
The Ethernet interfaces have built-in MDIX (auto-sensing) capability, allowing either a straight-
through or crossover cable to be used.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 97

 Figure 6-4. Ethernet Port (RJ-45) Pinout
(As viewed from the outside)
Table 6-5. Ethernet Interface Pin Descriptions
Pin Functions Ref.
1 Transmit Data (TX) High
2 Transmit Data (TX) Low
3 Receive Data (RX) High
4 Unused
5 Unused
6 Receive Data (RX) Low
7 Unused
8 Unused

COM1 Interface
COM1 supports the RS-232 serial data format at serial data rates of 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,
19200, 38400, 57600, and 115200 bps (asynchronous only).

Figure 6-5 COM1 Connector (RJ-45)

(As viewed from outside the unit)
COM1 is hard-wired as a DCE device.
Table 6-6. COM1 Pin Descriptions
Pin Radio Input/ Pin Description
Number Output

1 OUT DSR (Data Set Ready)

2 OUT DCD (Data Carrier Detect/Link)—A high indicates

signal received.

3 IN DTR (Data Terminal Ready)

4 -- Ground—Connects to ground (negative supply

potential) on chassis.
5 OUT RXD (Received Data)—Supplies received data to the
connected device.
Ground—Connects to ground (negative supply
potential) on chassis.

6 IN TXD (Transmitted Data)—Accepts TX data from the

connected device.

98 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Table 6-6. COM1 Pin Descriptions
Pin Radio Input/ Pin Description
Number Output

7 OUT CTS (Clear-to-Send)—Can be used for flow control or

as an output to key another connected radio.

8 IN RTS (Request-to-Send)—Can be used for flow control

or to key the transmitter.

COM2 Interface
The COM2 port supports the RS-232 or RS-485 serial data format at serial data rates of 300,
1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, and 115200 bps (asynchronous only).
Pin Descriptions—RS-232 and RS-485
Pin descriptions for the COM2 data port in RS-232 mode and RS-485 modes are provided below.
In addition to RS-485 mode, the radio is capable of operating in RS-422 mode.
Configure the port for RS-485 but follow the RS-422 wiring arrangements shown in
below under COM2 RS-485 and RS-422 Wiring Arrangement.

Figure 6-6. COM2 Connector (RJ-45)

(As viewed from outside the radio)
COM2 is hard-wired as a DCE device.

Table 6-7. COM2 Pin Descriptions—Radio in RS-232 Mode

Pin Radio
Number Input/ Pin Description
Output

1 -- Reserved—Do not connect

2 -- Reserved—Do not connect

3 -- Reserved—Do not connect

4 - Ground—Connects to ground (negative supply potential)

on the radio’s PC board.

5 OUT RXD (Received Data)—Supplies received data to the

connected device.

6 IN TXD (Transmitted Data)—Accepts TX data from the

connected device.

7 OUT CTS (Clear-to-Send)

8 IN RTS (Request-to-Send)

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 99

 Table 6-7. COM2 Pin Descriptions—Radio in RS-232 Mode

Pin Radio
Number Input/ Pin Description
Output

Table 6-8. COM2 Pin Descriptions—Radio in RS-485 Mode

Pin Radio
Number Input/ Pin Description
Output

1 -- Reserved—Do not connect

2 -- Reserved—Do not connect

3 -- Reserved—Do not connect

4 - Ground—Connects to ground (negative supply potential) on

the radio’s PC board.

5 IN TXD+/TXB (Transmitted Data +)— Non-inverting receiver

input

6 OUT RXD+/RXB (Received Data +)—Non-inverting driver output.

7 IN TXD-/TXA (Transmitted Data -)— Inverting receiver input

8 OUT RXD-/RXA (Received Data -)— Inverting driver output.

COM2 RS-485 and RS-422 Wiring Arrangement

- RXD+ / RXB and RXD– / RXA are data received by the radio and transmitted
- RXD+ / RXB is positive with respect to RXD– / RXA when the line input is a “0”
- TXD+ / TXB and TXD– / TXA are data sent to the radio to be transmitted
- TXD+ / TXB is positive with respect to the TXD– / TXA when the line output is a “0”

Table 6-9. EIA-422 4-Wire Connections

External DB-9 COM2
TXD- 2 7 TXD-
RXD- 3 8 RXD-
RXD+ 7 6 RXD+
TXD+ 8 5 TRD+

Table 6-10. EIA-485 2-Wire Connections

External DB-9 COM2
TXD- 2
RXD-/TXD-
RXD- 3
RXD+ 7
RXD+/TXD+
TXD+ 8

100 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Mini USB Interface
The USB Interface follows standard Mini-USB wiring and protocol. This interface can be used
to access a command line user interface when connected to a computer USB port and the GE
provided driver is installed. Refer to “Mini USB” on Page 22 for more information.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 101

6.4 SD Radio Modules

Figure 6-7. SD Radio Module

The SD Master Radio Modules are field replaceable, hot swappable, full duplex radios offering
narrowband communications. Current offerings include variants that span 800-960MHz.

Master station Radio modules are field replaceable and hot

swappable. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing Modules for information on removal and
installation.

When installing Radio Modules, torque thumbscrews to 10 in-lbs,

or approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to insure optimum heat
transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.

SD Master Radio Module LED Indicators

The SD Radio Modules have bi-color green/red LEDs to indicate power, alarm, and
active/standby status as shown in the table below. Blue LEDs to indicate receiver transmit and
receive are also provided.

Table 6-11. SD Radio Module LEDs

LED Name Behavior Meaning
GREEN Power applied
FLASHING RED Alarmed radio
PWR/ALARM
FLASHING GREEN Radio power-up
Alternating with ACTIVE Firmware is updating
GREEN Active
ACTIVE OFF Standby
Alternating with PWR Firmware is updating
TX BLUE Transmitting
RX BLUE Receiving

SD Master Radio Module RF Interface

SD Radio Modules include keyed RF Connectors for front connection to either an Alarm/Relay
Module, if used in a redundant system, or to the front of the duplexer tray if used in a non-
redundant system. Different cables are used in each case. Systems assembled by the factory
come pre-wired using the appropriate cabling. If replacing a module, use the cables provided

102 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

with the original system. For more information refer to the appropriate section below for the
specific Radio Module.

Technical Specifications
The following are the key operating specifications for the SD Master Station 900MHz and
400MHz variants, as well as LN Master station. Items are separated into Transmit (TX) and
Receive (RX) categories. Ongoing product improvements may result in specification changes,
and GE MDS reserves the right to make such changes without obligation to any party. Should
you require an exact specification for the build of your unit, please contact the factory for
additional assistance.
Table 6-12. 900MHz SD Master Station Technical Specifications
Transmit (TX) Parameter Specification
Frequency Range 928-960 MHz (SDM9C, SDM9K)1
Frequency Stability <0.5 ppm, -30°C to +60°C
+40.25 dBm +/-0.85dB at radio card for -30°C to +60° C1
TX Power Out
+37 dBm +1.85/-0.85 dB at back of chassis -30°C to +60°C1
TX Frequency Response +/- 1.0 dB from 100 Hz to 2.5 kHz
FCC Part 24D
Agency Approvals FCC Part 101C
IC RSS 119
Load VSWR 10:1 Max, All angles, No damage
Power Consumption <80W for all DC and AC versions, 100% TX Duty Cycle

Receive (RX) Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 928-960 MHz (SDM9C), 880-915 MHz (SDM9K)
RX Intermodulation >60 dB
RX Adjacent Channel >60 dB
RX Spurious and Image >60 dB when operating with integrated bandpass duplexer
RX Baseband Amplitude 225 < Audio Level <275 mV RMS, -50 dBm @ 1 kHz
RSSI Accuracy +/-3 dB for RSSI -110 to -70 dBm
RX High RF Input Level 10 dBm, no damage
RX Baseband Frequency Response +/- 1.0 dB from 100 Hz to 2.5 kHz
Power Consumption <30W for all DC and AC versions, transmitter disabled
Noise Figure <6 dB
Blocking >60 dB
Operating Range -30°C to +60°C
1 Additional frequency bands under development
2 -30°C to +50°C when operating continuously keyed (CKEY)

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 103

 Table 6-13. 400MHz SD Master Station Technical Specifications
Transmit (TX) Parameter Specification
Frequency Range 400-450 MHz (SDM4B) 450-512MHz (SDM4C) 1
Frequency Stability <0.5 ppm, -30C to +60C
TX Power Out +41.1 dBm maximum at radio card for-30 to +60C2
TX Frequency Response +/- 1.0 dB from 100 Hz to 2.5 kHz
FCC Part 22
Agency Approvals FCC Part 90
IC RSS-119
Load VSWR 10:1 Max, All angles, No damage
Power Consumption <80W for all DC and AC versions, 100% TX Duty Cycle

Receive (RX) Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 400-450 MHz (SDM4B) 450-512MHz (SDM4C)
RX Intermodulation >60 dB
RX Adjacent Channel >60 dB
RX Spurious and Image >60 dB
RX Baseband Amplitude 225 < Audio Level <275 mV RMS, -50 dBm @ 1 kHz
RSSI Accuracy +/-3 dB for RSSI -110 to -70 dBm
RX High RF Input Level 10 dBm, no damage
RX Baseband Frequency Response +/- 1.0 dB from 100 Hz to 2.5 kHz
Power Consumption <30W for all DC and AC versions, transmitter disabled
Noise Figure <6 dB
Blocking >60 dB
Operating Range -30°C to +60°C
1 Additional frequency bands under development
2 -30°C to +50°C when operating continuously keyed (CKEY)

104 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

6.5 LN Radio Modules

Figure 6-8. LN Radio Module

(Part No. 03-6846A01-Lxx)
The LN Master Radio Modules are field replaceable, hot swappable, radios offering narrowband
communications.

Master station Radio modules are field replaceable and hot

swappable. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing Modules for information on removal
and installation.

When installing Radio Modules, torque thumbscrews to 10 in-lbs,

or approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to insure optimum heat
transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.

LN Master Radio Module LED Indicators

The LN Radio Modules have bi-color green/red LEDs to indicate power, alarm, and
active/standby status as shown in the table below. Blue LEDs to indicate receiver transmit and
receive are also provided.
Table 6-14. LN Interface LED Descriptions
Mode LED State Description
Access Point / Remote ACTIVE Off  Interface is operational.
PWR/ALARM Green  Interface is not currently the active NIC in a
redundant system.
Access Point / Remote ACTIVE n/a  Interface is in an alarmed state
PWR/ALARM Flashing Red
Access Point ACTIVE Red  Interface is operational.
PWR/ALARM Green  Interface is currently the active NIC in the
system.
 There are no connected remotes.
Access Point ACTIVE Green  Interface is operational.
PWR/ALARM Green  Interface is currently the active NIC in the
system.
 There are is at least one connected remote.
Remote ACTIVE Green  Interface is operational.
PWR/ALARM Green  Interface is currently the active NIC in the
system.
 The interface is connected to an access point.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 105

 Remote ACTIVE Red  Interface is operational.
PWR/ALARM Green  Interface is currently the active NIC in the
system.
 The interface is not connected to an access
point.

Technical Specifications
The following are the key operating specifications for the LN Master station radio modules.
Items are separated into Transmit (TX) and Receive (RX) categories. Ongoing product
improvements may result in specification changes, and GE MDS reserves the right to make such
changes without obligation to any party. Should you require an exact specification for the build
of your unit, please contact the factory for additional assistance.
Table 6-15. 900MHz LN Master Station Technical Specifications
Transmit (TX) Parameter Specification
Frequency Range 896-960 MHz
Frequency Stability <0.5 ppm, -30C to +60C
+38.8dBm (-0.2/+0.35dB), Peak at radio card for-30 to +60C1
TX Power Out +35.2dBm (+/-0.5dB), Peak, in redundant configuration with
integrated duplexer
FCC Part 90
Agency Approvals FCC Part 101
IC RSS-119
Load VSWR 10:1 Max, All angles, No damage
Power Consumption <45W for all DC and AC versions, 100% TX Duty Cycle

Receive (RX) Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 896-960 MHz
RX Intermodulation >60 dB
RX Adjacent Channel >60 dB
RX Spurious and Image >60 dB
RSSI Accuracy +/-3 dB for RSSI -110 to -30 dBm
RX High RF Input Level -20 dBm, no damage
Power Consumption <30W for all DC and AC versions, transmitter disabled
Noise Figure <4 dB
Operating Range -30°C to +60°C
1. Peak and average power are based on modem type:
a. 64QAM, 16QAM: Average power is 7dB less than peak
b. 4QAM: Average power is 5dB less than peak

106 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Table 6-16. 700MHz LN Master Station Technical Specifications
Transmit (TX) Parameter Specification
Frequency Range 757-788 MHz
Frequency Stability <0.5 ppm, -30C to +60C
+38.8dBm (-0.2/+0.35dB),, Peak at radio card for-30 to +60C1
TX Power Out +36.2dBm (+/-0.5dB), Peak, in redundant configuration with
integrated duplexer
Agency Approvals FCC Part 27
Load VSWR 10:1 Max, All angles, No damage
Power Consumption <45W for all DC and AC versions, 100% TX Duty Cycle

Receive (RX) Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 757-788 MHz
RX Intermodulation >60 dB
RX Adjacent Channel >60 dB
RX Spurious and Image >60 dB
RSSI Accuracy +/-3 dB for RSSI -110 to -30 dBm
RX High RF Input Level -20 dBm, no damage
Power Consumption <30W for all DC and AC versions, transmitter disabled
Noise Figure <4 dB
Operating Range -30°C to +60°C
1. Peak and average power are based on modem type:
a. 64QAM, 16QAM: Average power is 7dB less than peak
b. 4QAM: Average power is 5dB less than peak

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 107

 Table 6-17. 400MHz LN Master Station Technical Specifications
Transmit (TX) Parameter Specification
Frequency Range 330-406MHz (L4A) 406-470MHz (L4E) 1
Frequency Stability <0.5 ppm, -30C to +60C
+38.8dBm (-0.2/+0.35dB),, Peak at radio card for-30 to +60C2
TX Power Out +37.2dBm (+/-0.5dB), Peak, in redundant configuration with
integrated duplexer
FCC Part 90 (L4E)
Agency Approvals
ETSI EN 300 113 (L4E) 1
Load VSWR 10:1 Max, All angles, No damage
Power Consumption <45W for all DC and AC versions, 100% TX Duty Cycle

Receive (RX) Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 330-406MHz (L4A) 406-470MHz (L4E)
RX Intermodulation >60 dB
RX Adjacent Channel >60 dB
RX Spurious and Image >60 dB
RSSI Accuracy +/-3 dB for RSSI -110 to -30 dBm
RX High RF Input Level -20 dBm, no damage
Power Consumption <30W for all DC and AC versions, transmitter disabled
Noise Figure <4 dB
Operating Range -30°C to +60°C
1 L4E ETSI Range = 333-406MHz.
2. Peak and average power are based on modem type:
a. 64QAM, 16QAM: Average power is 7dB less than peak
b. 4QAM: Average power is 5dB less than peak

108 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

6.6 Alarm and Alarm/Relay Modules

Figure 6-9 Alarm/Relay Module

There are 2 versions of the Alarm Module depending on whether the system is redundant or non-
redundant. The module pictured above is for redundant systems.

Table 6-18. Alarm Modules

Part Number Description System Interfaces and Indicators

RX/TX RF Connection for Radio A, Radio B, and OUT.

Relay to switch RF OUT based on active A or B.
Alarm/Relay
03-6847Axx Redundant Toggle Switch to select active A/B or Auto
Module
Alarm and Active LEDs
Alarm/Audio Connector
Does not include RF Connections
Does not include Relay
03-6848Axx Alarm Module Non-Redundant Does not include Toggle Switch
Alarm and Active LEDs
Alarm/Audio Connector
Both versions of this module provide user connections for external alarm dry contacts and four
wire audio.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 109

 Table 6-19. 6847 Alarm Module RF Performance
100-1000MHz
Frequency Band
Power Handling +42dBm, Maximum
Frequency (MHz) Loss (dB)
100 0.2
200 0.4
300 0.5
400 0.5
Insertion Loss 500 0.6
600 0.7
700 0.8
800 0.8
900 0.8
1000 0.8
RF Connector Dual FAKRA-SMB
Type

The Alarm or Alarm/Relay module does not support hot swappable field
replacement; power must be removed from the system before removal or
installation of this device. Refer to Section 8.4 Replacing Modules for information on
removal and installation.

Alarm Module LEDs

The Alarm Module includes LEDs to indicate the active Radio Module (A or B) as well as the
presence of a Major or Minor Alarm.
Table 6-20. Alarm Module LEDs
LED Name Behavior Meaning

ALARM MAJ. RED On—Major Alarm (Master Station)

ALARM MIN. RED On—Minor Alarm (Master Station)

On—Radio A Active
ACT A BLUE
Off—Radio A Standby

On—Radio B Active
ACT B BLUE
Off—Radio B Standby

Alarm/Audio Interface
The ALARM/AUDIO Interface on the Alarm/Relay module provides audio signaling and alarm
outputs as shown below.
AUDIO (MPRS Only):
• 4-wire audio circuits are connected to pins 1 through 4 as shown in Figure 6-10.
• Terminals 1 and 2 are for transmit audio input with a nominal 600  impedance.
• Terminals 3 and 4 provide receive audio output with a nominal 600  impedance.

110 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 • Pin 5 connects to an external keying source. Shorting pins 5 to pin 7 can key the radio
when PTT LOW is configured in software. When PTT is configured high in software,
pulling PTT to 3.3V keys the radio.
The interface is compatible with an external VOX adapter, although this product features an
integrated VOX circuit with digital threshold control. For applications using the external VOX
adapter, 12VDC on pin 6 can be used to power the external module.
ALARMS:
• Terminals 8 and 9 provide solid state relay contacts that close when a minor alarm is
detected.
• Terminals 10 and 11 provide relay contacts that close when a major alarm is detected. You
can redefine these relay contacts using the radio’s software (switched from minor to major
alarm outputs, or vice versa). The contacts are rated for non-inductive loads up to a
maximum 60 Volts (AC or DC) at 1 A.
Analog RSSI (MPRS Only):
When enabled in software, an RSSI voltage of 0 to 3V corresponding to -120 to -70dBm is
present on this line.
+12v 6 12 Analog RSSI
PTT 5 11 Major Alarm Contact
Rx Audio - 4 10 Major Alarm Contact
Rx Audio + 3 9 Minor Alarm Contact
Tx Audio - 2 8 Minor Alarm Contact
Tx Audio + 1 7 Ground
Figure 6-10: Alarm/Audio Connections
(As viewed from outside the radio)

Alarm/Relay Toggle Switch (6847 Only)

For redundant units, the Alarm/Relay module includes a manual override toggle switch, which
can be set into one of three positions to associate it with a particular radio. The toggle switch is
locking, and must be pulled out to change positions. Switch functions are as follows:
- Up — Radio A
- Down — Radio B
- Center — Automatic.
When the switch is set to Automatic, the active radio is determined by radio module presence
and alarm status.
If only one radio module is installed (A or B) it is recommended that
the switch be set to A or B, as appropriate.
The non-redundant version of the Alarm Module does not include the Toggle Switch.

Alarm/Relay RF Connections (6847 Only)

For redundant systems, the Alarm/Relay module includes a RF Connections for both the A and B
Radio Module, and RF OUT. These are all Dual FAKRA-SMB connectors. RF OUT is switched
between Radio A and Radio B depending on the currently active radio. RF OUT is normally
cabled to the Duplexer tray faceplate, even on systems that do not include a duplexer. Redundant
systems come from the factory already properly cabled between the Radio Modules,
Alarm/Relay Module and Duplexer tray faceplate. Connectors are keyed to ensure proper
orientation.
Non-redundant systems using the 6848 Alarm Module do not include RF Connections.
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 111
6.7 Duplexer Tray
Current Master Station offerings always include a Duplexer tray whether or not an internal
duplexer is included. The duplexer tray is cabled to the Alarm Relay Module, in a redundant
unit, or to the Radio Module if non-redundant. This is cabled on the front of the master station
from TX to RF-1 and from RX to RF-2. The cabling inside of the duplexer tray is dependent on
the frequency plan, whether transmit or receive is on the higher frequency. If the master station
was ordered with an internal duplexer and the user is changing from transmit high to transmit
low, or vise versa, the cabling inside the duplexer tray may need to be modified.

For master stations ordered before January 2017, the cabling to the duplexer depends on the
frequency plan. In this case, the duplexer tray will be labeled HIGH and LOW. For those units,
cable as directed in Table 6-21 below.

Table 6-21. Cabling to the Duplexer Tray Faceplate for pre-2017 Master Stations
Duplexer Frequency Cable Antenna Connection
Comment
Option Plan From - To on Back

Internal TX > RX TX - HIGH COMBINED OUT Cable by Frequency Plan to High/Low

RX - LOW
Internal TX < RX TX - LOW COMBINED OUT Cable by Frequency Plan to High/Low
RX - HIGH
Simplex TX > RX TX - HIGH TX Software configurable single or dual
TX = RX RX - LOW RX antenna port.

TX < RX
External TX > RX TX - HIGH TX Wire TX to High always, independent
TX < RX RX - LOW RX of Frequencies

Table 6-22. Duplexer RF Performance

Duplexer Type Frequency Loss (dB) +/- 0.1 dB
No Duplexer
400 MHz 0.35
700 MHz 0.55
900 MHz 0.75
Notch Duplexer
400 MHz 1.20
Bandpass Duplexer
700 MHz 1.50
900 MHz (9MHz Split) 2.10
900 MHz (24 MHz Split) 1.50

112 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

7.0 SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS
7.1 Migrating “A” Modem Networks
Mitigation strategy for mixed SDx/x710 repeater networks using the “A” modem
One key aspect of the MPRS MDS Master Station is that it’s backward compatible with the
9790. In many respects, in fact, the Master Station’s performance is superior to that of the 9790.
For example, the sensitivity of the Master Station is better than that of the 9790. However, one
performance aspect in which the Master Station lags the 9790 is latency in both the receiver and
the transmitter.
In many applications, this latency hit of the Master Station is barely noticeable. A point to
multipoint network is one of these applications. In other applications, such as streaming repeater
applications, however, this latency hit needs to be addressed via user configuration in order to
get the radio network up and running.
Note that in most repeater network cases, the latency effect of the Master Station after this
additional configuration will still be comparable to that of point to multipoint networks. Having
said that, there are a few cases where additional delay will be required.
In regards to the aforementioned user configuration, it’s worth noting that streaming repeater
applications that employ Packet-with-MAC mode don’t need to worry about this configuration.
Also, users migrating from x710/transparent to Packet-with-MAC mode don’t need to worry
about resetting this configuration, since all the parameters involved are ignored in Packet-
with-MAC mode.

User Configuration 1: Non-CKEY Repeater Network Case

The following parameters need to be configured in the order in which they are described below.
1. SCD := A soft carrier dekey delay of greater than 0 needs to be configured on the polling
remote and on the remotes to prevent the remotes from hearing their own transmissions.
2. PTT := If serial flow control isn’t available at the remote sites (excluding polling remote
site) and the O.T.A rate is faster than the effective baud rate, a push to talk delay may be
required such that the Master Station repeater latency remains constant across back-to-
back 9710 transmissions. Note that the effective baud rate of 8E1 is smaller than that of
8N1.
3. BUFF := A custom BUFF delay may need to be configured if there are still large gaps in
the data received O.T.A by the polling remote and the remotes. Multiples of 10ms should
be used as a rule of thumb.

Note that for modem 9600, baud 9600, a custom BUFF delay should not be required.

The following table provides the appropriate SCD values for all the A modems that may be
employed on a mixed SDx/x710 repeater network. Note that PR stands for polling remote. Note
also that these values will work whether the remotes are keyed on RTS, DATA or both. These
values do assume that flow control is either available or not available throughout the radio
network. Note that the values are not symmetrical because of the transmit waveform differences
between the SDx and the 9710 despite having the same configuration.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 113

 “A” Modem SDx/SDMS 9710/SDx
Polling Remote Remote
SCD SCD
9600 8ms 12ms

The following table provides the appropriate PTT values for the various baud formats that are
used with the most commonly used “A” modem in mixed repeater networks, that is, modem
9600.

Baud Polling Remote

and Remote
PTT
96008N1 0ms transmit underflow does not occur because of preamble air time
96008E1 4ms

User Configuration 2: CKEY Repeater Network Case

The configuration required at the remotes in the presence of a CKEY repeater is very similar to
that of when a non-CKEY repeater is used. The only differences are:
- The SCD values required at the remotes should be smaller
- PTT should never be required
“A” Modem SDx/SDMS 9710/SDx
Polling Remote Remote
SCD SCD
9600 6ms 8ms
Note: Completely error free performance is not achievable at strong signal because the 9710 takes errors due to a
known 9710 receiver issue.

114 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
If trouble occurs with the unit, verify that it meets the basic requirements listed below. These
items should be checked prior to starting any detailed troubleshooting or calling for assistance.
All units must have:
• Adequate and stable primary power
• Secure cable and wiring connections
• Proper configuration for the application
• ALL modules securely tightened into the chassis using at least 10 inch-pounds of torque.
Most radio system problems are due to the failure of components outside of the transceiver—
such as a poor or broken feed line or antenna connection. This section will help you determine
whether the problem is outside or inside the radio and, if in the radio, how to restore operation as
quickly as possible.
GE MDS does not recommend component-level repairs in the field. However, you can replace
the radio’s major assemblies without using tools or test equipment. Section 8.4 Replacing
Modules covers this in detail.
Before starting any detailed troubleshooting, check the basic requirements at both ends
of the link: primary power, secure cable connections, and proper antenna heading. In
many cases, one of these causes poor operation or a complete loss of link service.

8.1 Interpreting Module LEDs

The LEDs on the front of installed modules provide useful information when troubleshooting.
Refer to Section 6.0 Master Station Modules for detailed descriptions for module LEDs. Power
and alarm indicators are provided on Platform Manager (Page 97), Radio (Page 102), and
Alarm/Relay modules (Page 103). Radio Modules also have TX/RX LEDs to show wireless
activity.

Normal Operation
During normal, operation, there should not be any Red LEDs illuminated. All illuminated LEDs
should be BLUE or GREEN.
Table 8-1. Status LEDs – Normal Operation
PWR BLUE
Platform Manager ALARM OFF
ETH1/ETH2 Flashing with Ethernet traffic
PWR/ALARM GREEN
ACTIVE GREEN
Active SD Radio Module
TX Flashing BLUE when transmitting
RX Flashing BLUE when receiving
PWR/ALARM GREEN
Standby SD Radio
ACTIVE OFF
Module
(if present) TX OFF
RX OFF
ALARM MAJ. OFF
Alarm Module
ALARM MIN. OFF
ACT A & ACT B One BLUE, one OFF

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 115

Exception and Alarm States
The first indication of a problem is usually an illuminated ALARM LED on one or more of the
modules. The first place to look is the Alarm or Alarm/Relay module and see if the PWR/Alarm
LED is RED.
Table 8-2. Status LEDs – Exception and Alarm States
Module LED Behavior Meaning Troubleshooting Action

Platform Manager PWR Flashing Booting / System Wait several minutes for
(BLUE) Initialization system to boot.
Platform Manager ALARM Flashing Master Station Alarm Use Device Manager to
(BLUE) determine Alarm
SD Radio Module PWR/ALARM Flashing Radio power up Wait several seconds for radio
GREEN to boot.
SD Radio Module PWR/ALARM & Alternating Radio Firmware Wait several minutes for
ACTIVE update firmware upgrade to complete.
ALL Radio Modules PWR/ALARM Flashing RED Radio Alarmed Use Device Manager to
determine Alarm
ALL Radio ACTIVE Both/Only No active radio in the Select Radio with A/B Toggle
Module(s) Modules OFF system (Alarm/Relay Switch. Return to Auto
Module may still (Redundant System)
indicates Active A or Remove and re-seat radio
B) module.
Both Radio ACTIVE Both System ERROR - both Select Radio with A/B Toggle
Modules Modules radios active Switch. Return to Auto
(Redundant Only) GREEN (Alarm/Relay Module Remove and re-seat one or
may still show only one both radio modules.
active)
Alarm Module ALARM MAJ. RED Master Station Major Use Device Manager to
ALARM MIN. or Minor Alarm. determine Alarm

8.2 Redundant Units

The active radio can be identified by the corresponding LED on the alarm/relay module as well
as the active LED on the radio module. The active unit is normally selected automatically. For
troubleshooting, the toggle switch can be used to manually set the active radio. Alternatively, the
switch can remain in the automatic position, and the active radio can be selected via the web UI,
or CLI.

8.3 Technical Assistance

Factory technical assistance is available by contacting GE MDS during business hours (8:30 AM
to 6:00 PM Eastern Time). For telephone assistance, call (585) 241-5510, or visit our website at
www.gemds.com for additional contact options.

8.4 Replacing Modules

Component-level repair of a transceiver board in the field is not recommended due to the
complex nature of the circuitry and the use of surface-mount technology throughout the radio.
You should return malfunctioning assemblies to the factory (or authorized service center) for
repair or replacement.

116 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

One approach to field-level servicing is to have spare modules available. Slide in modules are
easily field replaceable, including Power Supply, Radio, Platform Manger, and Alarm/Relay
Modules. Internal Duplexers can also be replaced in the field. In this way, you can quickly
remove and replace a defective assembly with a working assembly. The following instructions
describe the removal and installation of these assemblies.

When installing Power Supply or Radio Modules, torque thumbscrews to

10 in-lbs, or approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to insure optimum heat
transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.

Power Supply Modules

The two left-most card-slots on the MDS™ Master Station are dedicated to Power Supply
Modules. To remove either of these assemblies, first disconnect the power supply cable. Loosen
the two thumbscrews on the front of the module, then slide the module straight out.
A Power Supply Module can be installed in either of the left-most slots on the Master Station. It
will not engage if an attempt is made to install into any other slot in the chassis. To install, align
the Module with the card guides and slide into the chassis until it engages with the backplane
connectors. Push firmly on the faceplate of the module to ensure a good connection and hand-
tighten the thumb screws. The thumb screws should be further tightened to 10 in-lbs, or
approximately ¼ turn past hand tight, to ensure optimum heat transfer through thermal contact
connector on the rear of the unit.
Connect the power cable first making certain that the supply is within the rating for the power
supply module you have installed.

Table 8-3. Power Supply Modules

Module
Module Module Description
ID

6755 100-220 AC Power Supply Module 100-220 VAC, 50/60 Hz. 120W Max AC Power Supply Module.

6843 +/- 12-36 VDC Power Supply Module +/- 12-36 VDC. 10 A Max. DC Power Supply Module.

6844 +/- 36-75 VDC Power Supply Module +/- 36-75 VDC. 3.5 A Max DC Power Supply Module.

6845 +/- 75-140 VDC Power Supply +/- 75-140 VDC. 2 A Max DC Power Supply Module.
Module

DC power supply modules are available for several different input ranges.
These modules have interchangeable connectors. Make sure the supply is
within the rating for the module installed.

On a redundant unit equipped with two power supplies, a supply can be removed, and a new
supply can be installed, while the unit is powered and operational. Do not remove power supplies
whose power source is still connected and active.

Peripheral Modules – including Platform Manager, Radio, Alarm, and Alarm Relay

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 117

Modules.
Peripheral slots on the Master Station include all slots between the power supply modules (on the
left) and the duplexer tray (on the right). On an MDS™ Master Station, the peripheral slots are
populated with the following modules, from left to right: Platform Manager, Radio Module, a
second Radio Module if redundant, and an Alarm Module or Alarm/Relay Module if redundant.
To remove peripheral modules, first disconnect cables attached to the faceplate of the module
you are removing. Label connections if necessary to remember how connections are made.
Loosen the two thumbscrews on the front of the module, then slide the module straight out,
moving other cables out of the way as necessary.

The Radio Module heat spreader gets very hot under normal operating
conditions. Always use caution handling recently powered Radio Modules.
When removing a Radio Module, do not touch the heat spreader. It is recommended to pull the
Radio Module out only part way, disengaging the module from the backplane and rear heatsink,
and then allow the Radio Module to cool for several minutes before removing it fully from the
chassis.

To install a peripheral module, align the module with the card guides and slide into the chassis
until it engages with the backplane. Push firmly on the faceplate of the module to ensure a good
connection and hand-tighten the thumb screws. The thumb screws can be further tightened with a
screwdriver. Radio Modules should be tightened to 10 in-lbs, or approximately ¼ turn past hand
tight, to ensure optimum heat transfer through thermal contact connector on the rear of the unit.
Reconnect faceplate cabling connections to other modules as necessary.

Hot Swap Redundant Modules

On a redundant unit equipped with two Power Supplies and two Radio Modules, these modules
can be removed and/or installed while the unit is powered and operational. Replacing a Power
Supply does require first removing the supply input for the module, but the alternate Power
Supply can remain powered. The unit will continue to operate using a single power supply.
When removing a Radio Module on a redundant unit, we recommend changing the selector
switch on the Alarm/Relay Module to lock the active radio to A or B as appropriate before
removing the other Radio Module. This should be done even if the desired radio is already
active. The manual override toggle switch is locking, and must be pulled out to change positions.
Switch functions are as follows:
- Up —Radio A;
- Down — Radio B;
- Center — Automatic.
Once a new Radio Module is installed, the Select Switch should be returned to the Center
(Automatic) position for redundant operation.

A newly installed Radio Modules may require firmware reprogramming

and configuration update from the Platform Manager. Green alarm and
power LEDs on the Radio Module will alternate quickly during this process. Allow up to 5

118 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 minutes for the synchronization process to complete.

Internal Duplexer Tray

The duplexer tray can be removed by first removing two screws on the top of the chassis holding
the tray in place. Save these screws. Disconnect all cabling to both the faceplate of the duplexer
and on the back of the unit. Once cabling and screws have been removed, push on the connectors
on the back of the unit to free the tray from the chassis and then slide out the front. To install a
new tray, slide the tray in allowing the connectors to push through the back of the chassis. Use
the same screws to secure the front of the tray to the chassis and then reconnect cabling being
careful to connect TX and RX cables from the Alarm Module to the correct faceplate
connections on the Duplexer Tray.

400 MHz Notch-Type Duplexers

You can generally change the radio’s transmit frequency up to 100 kHz without re-tuning the
duplexer. The duplexers shown in Figure 8-1. 400 MHz Notch Duplexer can be aligned in the
field by experienced technicians using high-quality test equipment. For assistance, contact GE
MDS Technical Support for additional details about tuning.

Figure 8-1. 400 MHz Notch Duplexer

(Adjustment generally not required for transmit changes up to 100 kHz)

Duplexer alignment is a sophisticated procedure and a duplexer can be

easily damaged if not handled carefully. It is highly recommended that
you return duplexers needing realignment to GE MDS, or the original duplexer
manufacturer, for alignment. In some cases, it may be more economical to replace the
unit than to have it realigned.

Bandpass-Type Duplexers
These duplexers (Figure 8-2. 900 MHz Bandpass Duplexer) typically allow the transmitter
frequency to change up to 500 kHz without undesired results. Since this type of duplexer cannot
be re-aligned in the field, we recommend contacting the GE MDS Technical Support Department
if you suspect a duplexer problem or need one for a different frequency.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 119

 Figure 8-2. 900 MHz Bandpass Duplexer
(Adjustment generally not required for transmit changes up to 500 kHz)

8.5 Testing and Removing an Internal Duplexer

Testing
If you suspect that the internal duplexer is not functioning properly, perform the following steps
to determine if requires replacement:
1. Measure the RF power out of the antenna jack.
- If the power registers approximately +37 dBm (5 watts), the internal duplexer is
probably functioning correctly (see Table 9-1. dBm–Volts–Watts Conversion
Chart for dBm-volts-watts conversion chart).
- If the power registers significantly less than +37 dBm, proceed with Step 2.
2. Locate the TX SMA connection on the front of the duplexer tray.
3. Using an adapter, connect the RF power meter to the SMA Cable on the front of the unit
• If the power registers +39 dBm, the radio board is functioning correctly.
• If the power registers less than +39 dBm, proceed with Step 4.
4. Use the front panel to switch to the alternate transmitter and again measure the RF power
output.
• If the alternate transmitter registers +39 dBm, the internal duplexer probably needs
replacing.
5. Before replacing the duplexer, verify that the highest or lowest frequencies marked on the
duplexer are the same as radio’s transmit and receive frequencies or within the nominal
operating range: 100 kHz for 400 MHz radios, and 500 kHz for 900 MHz radios.

Removing the Internal Duplexer

To remove the internal duplexer, follow these steps:
Disconnect the antenna cables from the back of the chassis.

120 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Internal Duplexer Cabling - A number of different duplexers can be installed in the
radio. While the physical appearance of the duplexer may vary slightly, its operation and
removal remain the same.
Disconnect the SMA cables from the front of the duplexer tray
Remove the two screws on the top of the unit that secure the duplexer tray into the front of the
chassis.
Carefully slide the duplexer tray out the front of the chassis by applying pressure to the antenna
N-connectors on the rear of the unit.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 121

Remove four screws to remove the duplexer assembly from the tray

122 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

 Figure 8-3. Internal Duplexer Removal

Use care when removing the duplexer. Physical damage may cause detuning.

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 123

9.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE DATA
9.1 RF Propagation Planning
Establishing a reliable point-to-point radio link requires system planning and design. You should
have an understanding of the physical parameters affecting propagation. The following material
discusses these factors and will assist you in designing a dependable transmission path for your
radio link.
This section is intended for use as a guideline when planning transmission paths. It does
not consider all of the local conditions that may be present, nor does it guarantee that
adequate signal strength will be obtained in a given system. There is no substitute for an
on-the-air test to verify the predicted path results, and to check the overall operation of
the radio system.
To ensure a highly reliable path, a line of sight between both ends of the link is desirable. For
short paths (up to 5 kilometers/3.1 miles), some obstructions might be acceptable, but the
performance of a blocked path is always less predictable than a clear path.

Fresnel Zone Clearance

As the distance spanned by a link gets longer, it is necessary to have more than just a grazing
path between the two ends; the path must clear the ground or other obstacles by some percentage
of a Fresnel zone.
The Fresnel zone corresponds to the width or girth of the radio signal. There are first, second,
and third Fresnel zones, but the first zone is the only one that has substantial effects on signal
strength.
The first Fresnel zone can be visualized as an oval-shaped volume between two station antennas
(Figure 9-1 ). As the width of the radio wave front gets blocked by obstructions, less of the signal
can get to the receiver antenna.
In addition to blocking the signal, obstructions in the first Fresnel zone may also cause multipath
interference due to reflective and refractive signal paths. The reflected or refracted signal might
arrive at the receiver out of phase with the desired signal and cause a canceling effect.

Figure 9-1 Fresnel Zone Obstructions

As a matter of practice, 60 percent of the first Fresnel zone must be clear of obstructions (0.6 x
F) to allow a clear, unobstructed RF path.
Remember, the first Fresnel zone calculation is only one parameter determining path quality.
Earth Curvature
As the distance of a communication link increases, the clearance problem is compounded by the
earth’s curvature. Radio waves traveling through typical atmospheric conditions bend slightly,
which is represented by treating the earth as though it were slightly flatter than it actually is.
124 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
Experience has shown that if we consider the earth’s radius 4/3rds of its actual size, we get good
agreement between theory and measured propagation results.
The figure below shows a representation of the 4/3 earth “radio horizon.” This figure shows that
under normal radio propagation conditions, a station with its antenna 15 meters above flat terrain
will have a radio horizon approximately 15 kilometers away, well beyond the visual horizon.

Figure 9-2. Antenna Height vs. Theoretical Radio Horizon

Fade Margins
Variations in the temperature and humidity of the atmosphere with elevation cause the signals to
bend more or less, resulting in fading at the receiver. The longer the path, the more likely that
deep fades will occur, hence the greater the fade margin required.
Different parts of the world have differing propagation conditions, which can be categorized as
favorable, average, or adverse. In general, mountainous areas have favorable propagation
conditions, while tropical areas and those near large bodies of water have adverse conditions.
Calculating Path Loss
Assuming that we have satisfied the line-of-sight and first Fresnel zone clearance requirements,
we can calculate the path loss. At 450 MHz, the loss between two isotropic radiators (0 dBi
antennas) that are 1 km apart is 86 dB. For every doubling of distance, the loss increases by an
additional 6 dB. Knowing this, the output power (+37 dBm), and the receiver sensitivity, we can
calculate antenna size and tower height requirements to cover any desired distance.

Formulas for System Planning

The following standard formulas are provided for assistance in determining system installation
parameters.
Free Space Path Loss
fs = 92.4 + 20 log 10 f + 20 log 10 d
where:
 fs = free space loss in dB
d = path distance in kilometers
ƒ = frequency in GHz

Fresnel Zone Boundary

nd1  d2
Fn = 17.3 -------------------
-
fD where:
MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 125
 Fn= Fresnel zone boundary in meters
d1 = distance from one end of the path to the Fresnel zone boundary (in kilometers)
d2 = distance from the other end of the path to the Fresnel zone boundary (in kilometers)
D = total path distance (d 1+d2) in kilometers
ƒ = frequency in GHz
n = Fresnel zone, 1 (for 1st) is used here

Theoretical Signal Strength

RSSI = EIRP – fs + Gra – Lrfl
where:
RSSI= signal strength at the receiver in dBm
EIRP = RF power output in dBm + Gta –Ltfl
 fs = free-space path loss in dB
Gra = receive antenna gain in dBi
Lrfl = receive feedline loss in dB
Ltfl = transmit feedline loss in dB
Gta = transmit antenna gain in dBi

Probability of System Fading

–7 3  –F   10
FProb = a  b  6.0  10  f  d  10 where:
FProb = probability of fading more than F
a = terrain factor
- 4 is used for very smooth terrain, such as over water
- 1 is used for average terrain, with moderate roughness
- 0.25 is used for mountainous or very rough terrain
b = climate factor
- 0.5 is used for a hot, humid climate
- 0.25 is used for temperate or northern areas
- 0.125 is used for a very dry climate
ƒ = frequency in GHz
d = path length in km
F = fade margin in dB

126 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

9.2 dBm-Volts-Watts Conversion Chart
The dBm-Volts-Watts Conversion Chart below is provided as a convenience for determining the
equivalent voltage or wattage of an RF power expressed in dBm.
Table 9-1. dBm–Volts–Watts Conversion Chart
dBm V Po dBm V Po dBm mV Po dBm µV Po
+53 100.0 200W 0 .225 1.0mW -49 0.80 -98 2.9
+50 70.7 100W -1 .200 .80mW -50 0.71 .01µW -99 2.51
+49 64.0 80W -2 .180 .64mW -51 0.64 -100 2.25 .1pW
+48 58.0 64W -3 .160 .50mW -52 0.57 -101 2.0
+47 50.0 50W -4 .141 .40mW -53 0.50 -102 1.8
+46 44.5 40W -5 .125 .32mW -54 0.45 -103 1.6
+45 40.0 32W -6 .115 .25mW -55 0.40 -104 1.41
+44 32.5 25W -7 .100 .20mW -56 0.351 -105 1.27
+43 32.0 20W -8 .090 .16mW -57 0.32 -106 1.18
+42 28.0 16W -9 .080 .125mW -58 0.286
+41 26.2 12.5W -10 .071 .10mW -59 0.251 dBm nV Po
+40 22.5 10W -11 .064 -60 0.225 .001µW -107 1000
+39 20.0 8W -12 .058 -61 0.200 -108 900
+38 18.0 6.4W -13 .050 -62 0.180 -109 800
+37 16.0 5W -14 .045 -63 0.160 -110 710 .01pW
+36 14.1 4W -15 .040 -64 0.141 -111 640
+35 12.5 3.2W -16 .0355 -112 580
+34 11.5 2.5W dBm µV Po -113 500
+33 10.0 2W dBm mV Po -65 128 -114 450
+32 9.0 1.6W -17 31.5 -66 115 -115 400
+31 8.0 1.25W -18 28.5 -67 100 -116 355
+30 7.10 1.0W -19 25.1 -68 90 -117 325
+29 6.40 800mW -20 22.5 .01mW -69 80 -118 285
+28 5.80 640mW -21 20.0 -70 71 .1nW -119 251
+27 5.00 500mW -22 17.9 -71 65 -120 225 .001pW
+26 4.45 400mW -23 15.9 -72 58 -121 200
+25 4.00 320mW -24 14.1 -73 50 -122 180
+24 3.55 250mW -25 12.8 -74 45 -123 160
+23 3.20 200mW -26 11.5 -75 40 -124 141
+22 2.80 160mW -27 10.0 -76 35 -125 128
+21 2.52 125mW -28 8.9 -77 32 -126 117
+20 2.25 100mW -29 8.0 -78 29 -127 100
+19 2.00 80mW -30 7.1 .001mW -79 25 -128 90
+18 1.80 64mW -31 6.25 -80 22.5 .01nW -129 80 .1ƒW
+17 1.60 50mW -32 5.8 -81 20.0 -130 71
+16 1.41 40mW -33 5.0 -82 18.0 -131 61
+15 1.25 32mW -34 4.5 -83 16.0 -132 58
+14 1.15 25mW -35 4.0 -84 11.1 -133 50
+13 1.00 20mW -36 3.5 -85 12.9 -134 45
+12 .90 16mW -37 3.2 -86 11.5 -135 40
+11 .80 12.5mW -38 2.85 -87 10.0 -136 35
+10 .71 10mW -39 2.5 -88 9.0 -137 33
+9 .64 8mW -40 2.25 .1µW -89 8.0 -138 29
+8 .58 6.4mW -41 2.0 -90 7.1 .001nW -139 25
+7 .500 5mW -42 1.8 -91 6.1 -140 23 .01ƒW
+6 .445 4mW -43 1.6 -92 5.75
+5 .400 3.2mW -44 1.4 -93 5.0
+4 .355 2.5mW -45 1.25 -94 4.5
+3 .320 2.0mW -46 1.18 -95 4.0
+2 .280 1.6mW -47 1.00 -96 3.51
+1 .252 1.25mW -48 0.90 -97 3.2

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 127

10.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS
If you are new to wireless data systems, some of the terms in this guide may be unfamiliar. The
following glossary explains many of these terms and can prove helpful in understanding the
operation of the Master Station. While some entries may not appear specifically in the text of this
manual, they are included to promote a more complete understanding of wireless data networks,
both of current and legacy design.
Active Messaging—This is a mode of diagnostic gathering that may interrupt payload system
polling communications (contrast with passive messaging). Active (or intrusive) messaging is
faster than passive messaging because it is not dependent upon the RTU polling cycle.
Antenna System Gain—A figure, normally expressed in dB, representing the power increase
resulting from the use of a gain-type antenna. System losses (from the feedline and coaxial
connectors, for example) are subtracted from this figure to calculate the total antenna system
gain.
BER—Bit Error Rate.
Bit—The smallest unit of digital data, often represented by a one or a zero. Eight bits (plus start,
stop, and parity bits) usually comprise a byte.
Bits-per-second—See BPS.
BPS—Bits-per-second. A measure of the information transfer rate of digital data across a
communication channel.
Bridging—(see Ethernet Bridging).
Byte—A string of digital data usually made up of eight data bits and start, stop and parity bits.
Ckeyed—Pertains to continuously keyed Master stations (full-duplex).
CLI—Command Line Interface. A method of user control where commands are entered as
character strings to set configuration and operating parameters.
CTS—Clear to Send.
Decibel (dB)—A measure computed from the ratio between two signal levels. Frequently used
to express the gain (or loss) of a system.
Data Circuit-terminating Equipment—See DCE.
Data Communications Equipment—See DCE.
Data Terminal Equipment—See DTE.
dBi—Decibels referenced to an “ideal” isotropic radiator in free space. Frequently used to
express antenna gain.
dBm—Decibels referenced to one milliwatt. An absolute unit used to measure signal power, as
in transmitter power output, or received signal strength.
DCE—Data Circuit-terminating Equipment (or Data Communications Equipment). In data
communications terminology, this is the “modem” side of a computer-to-modem connection.
The transceiver described in this manual is hardwired as a DCE device.
Digital Signal Processing—See DSP.
DLINK—Data Link Mode. This is a GE MDS-proprietary protocol used when the transceiver is
in diagnostics mode.
DSP—Digital Signal Processing. The transceiver’s DSP is the core operating unit of the
transceiver through which nearly all functions depend.
DTE—Data Terminal Equipment. A device that provides data in the form of digital signals at its
output. Connects to the DCE device.
ETH—Abbreviation for Ethernet.
Ethernet Bridging—A mode of operation for the transceiver where the radio decides whether
messages are handled locally or sent intact over-the-air.
128 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F
Fade Margin—The greatest tolerable reduction in average received signal strength expected
under most conditions. Provides an allowance for reduced signal strength due to multipath
fading, slight antenna movement or changing atmospheric losses. A fade margin of 20 to 30 dB
is usually sufficient in most systems.
FPGA—Field Programmable Gate Array.
Frame—A segment of data that adheres to a specific data protocol and contains definite start
and end points. It provides a method of synchronizing transmissions.
Gate—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities.
See also NODE, PEER, and ROOT.
Hardware Flow Control—A transceiver feature used to prevent data buffer overruns when
handling high-speed data from the RTU or PLC. When the buffer approaches overflow, the radio
drops the clear-to-send (CTS) line, which instructs the RTU or PLC to delay further transmission
until CTS again returns to the high state.
Host Computer—The computer installed at the master unit, which controls the collection of
data from one or more remote sites.
I/O—Input/Output.
IP—Internet Protocol.
Intrusive Diagnostics—A mode of remote diagnostics that queries and commands radios in a
network with an impact on the delivery of the system “payload” data. See Active messaging.
LAN—Local Area Network.
LED—Light Emitting Diode.
Latency—The delay (usually expressed in milliseconds) between when data is applied to the
TXD pin at one radio, until it appears at the RXD pin of another radio.
Listen Before Transmit—A collision avoidance mechanism that attempts to allow transmission
only when the channel is clear.
mA—Milliamperes (current flow). 1000 mA = 1 Ampere.
MAC—Media Access Control.
NIC: Network Interface Card. This is another name for the modules that are selectively included
in the product based on order entry.
NX915: A GE MDS NIC module supporting unlicensed operation at 900 MHz
MAS—Multiple Address System. A radio system where a central master unit communicates
with several remote stations for the purpose of gathering telemetry data.
Master (Station)—Radio which is connected to the host computer. It is the point at which
polling enters the network.
Multiple Address System—See MAS.
Network-Wide Diagnostics—An advanced method of controlling and interrogating GE MDS
radios in a radio network.
Node—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities.
See also GATE, PEER, and ROOT.
Non-intrusive diagnostics—See Passive messaging.
OTA—Over-the-Air.
PA—Power Amplifier.
Packet Radio—A transmission scheme in which data elements are assembled into units, that are
consecutively numbered and error-checked at the time of transmittal. Errored packets result in
retry requests from the receiving station.
Passive messaging—This is a mode of diagnostic gathering or reprogramming that does not
interrupt payload system polling communications. Diagnostic/reprogramming data is

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 129

sent/collected non-intrusively over a period of time; polling messages are carried with payload
system data (contrast with active messaging).
Payload data—This is the application’s communication data which is sent over the radio
network.
Peer—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities.
See also GATE, NODE, and ROOT.
Point-Multipoint System—A radio communications network or system designed with a central
control station that exchanges data with a number of remote locations equipped with terminal
equipment.
Poll—A request for data issued from the host computer (or master PLC) to a remote radio.
PLC—Programmable Logic Controller. A dedicated microprocessor configured for a specific
application with discrete inputs and outputs. It can serve as a host or as an RTU.
PPM—Parts per Million. Typically used to specify a tolerance rating for an operational
parameter.
Programmable Logic Controller—See PLC.
Remote (Station)—A radio in a network that communicates with an associated master unit.
Remote Terminal Unit—See RTU.
Redundant Operation—A station arrangement where two transceivers and two power supplies
are available for operation, with automatic switch-over in case of a failure.
Root—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities.
See also GATE, NODE, and PEER.
RTS—Request-to-send.
RTU—Remote Terminal Unit. A data collection device installed at a remote radio site. An
internal RTU simulator is provided with the transceiver to isolate faults to either the external
RTU or the radio.
RX—Abbreviation for “Receive.” See also TX.
SAF—Store and Forward. An available feature of the radio where data is stored by a designated
Remote, and then retransmitted to a station beyond the communication range of the AP.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio—See SNR.
SCADA—Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition. An overall term for the functions
commonly provided through an MAS radio system.
SCEP (Simple Certificate Enrollment Protocol): A scalable protocol for networks based on
digital certificates, which can be requested by users without the need for assistance or manual
intervention from a system administrator.
SNR—Signal-to-Noise ratio. A measure of how well a signal is being received relative to noise
on the radio channel.
SSH: Secure Shell protocol for a network that allows users to open a window on a local PC and
connect to a remote PC as if they were present at the remote.
SSID (Service Set Identifier): A name that identifies a particular 802.11wireless LAN.
Standing Wave Ratio—See SWR.
Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition—See SCADA.
SWR—Standing Wave Ratio. A parameter related to the ratio between forward transmitter
power and the reflected power from the antenna system. As a general guideline, reflected power
should not exceed 10% of the forward power ( 2:1 SWR maximum).
Telnet—A terminal emulation protocol that enables an Internet user to communicate with a
remote device for management activities as if it were locally connected to a PC.

130 MDS™ Master Station MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F

Terminal Server—An available feature on the radio which encapsulates serial data from the
COM1/COM2 ports, and sends it over the air as IP packets. The data is decapsulated at the
receiving end and routed to the appropriate COM ports.
Transparent Mode—A mode in which payload data remains unchanged from its original format
when it is sent over the air. A radio in this mode is said to be “transparent” to connected
equipment at each end of a link.
TX—Abbreviation for “Transmit.” See also RX.
VLAN—Virtual Local Area Network
WAN—Wide Area Network
x710—The generic name for GE MDS legacy transceiver-family products, including the MDS
9710 (900 MHz), MDS 4710 (400 MHz), 2710 (200 MHz) and MDS 1710 (100 MHz).

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. F MDS™ Master Station 131

IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY...
Our products are designed for long life and trouble-free operation. However, this equipment, as with
all electronic equipment, may have an occasional component failure. The following information will
assist you in the event that servicing becomes necessary.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Technical assistance for GE MDS products is available from our Technical Support Department
during normal business hours (8:30 A.M.–6:00 P.M. Eastern Time). When calling, please give the
complete model number of the product, along with a description of the trouble/symptom(s) that you
are experiencing. In many cases, problems can be resolved over the telephone, without the need for
returning the unit to the factory. Please use one of the following means for product assistance:
Phone: (585) 241-5510 E-Mail: [email protected]
FAX: (585) 242-8369 Web: www.gemds.com
REPAIR SERVICE
Component level repair of this equipment is not recommended in the field. Many components are
installed using surface mount technology, which requires specialized training and equipment for
proper servicing. For this reason, the equipment should be returned to the factory for any PC board
repairs. The factory is best equipped to diagnose, repair and align your unit to its proper operating
specifications.
If return of the equipment is necessary, you must obtain a return authorization number before
shipment. This number helps expedite the repair so that the equipment can be returned to you as
quickly as possible. Please be sure to include the number on the outside of the shipping box, and on
any correspondence relating to the repair. No equipment will be accepted for repair without an
authorization number.
Return authorization numbers are issued online at www.gedigitalenergy.com/Communications.htm.
On the left side of the page, click “Login to my MDS” and once logged in, click “Service Request
Order”. Your number will be issued immediately after the required information is entered. Please be
sure to have the model number(s), serial number(s), detailed reason for return, “ship to” address, “bill
to” address, and contact name, phone number, and fax number available when requesting a number.
A purchase order number or pre-payment will be required for any units that are out of warranty, or
for product conversion.
If you prefer, you may contact our Product Services department to obtain an authorization number:
Telephone Number: 585-241-5540
Fax Number: 585-242-8400
E-mail Address: [email protected]
The radio must be properly packed for return to the factory. The original shipping container and
packaging materials should be used whenever possible. All factory returns should be addressed to:
GE MDS, LLC
Product Services Department
175 Science Parkway
Rochester, NY 14620 USA
When repairs have been completed, the equipment will be returned to you by the same shipping
method used to send it to the factory. Please specify if you wish to make different shipping
arrangements. To inquire about an in-process repair, you may contact our Product Services
department using the telephone, Fax, or E-mail information given above.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Many spare and replacement items are available for purchase by contacting your factory sales
representative, or by visiting our online store at http://store.gedigitalenergy.com/front.asp.