EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY....................................................................................................................7
Glossary of Terms .......................................................................................................................................................... 8
Key to AFL RF Module Drawing Symbols....................................................................................................................9
1.1Earthing of Equipment ...................................................................................................................................... 10
2.1General System Description.............................................................................................................................. 13
3.4Power Distribution Sketch ................................................................................................................................ 17
3.5Weehawken VHF System Frequencies Look-up Table..................................................................................... 18
6.2.3Alarm/Monitor Shelf Parts List................................................................................................................. 49
9.1.5Checking service ....................................................................................................................................... 71
9.1.7Service Support ......................................................................................................................................... 72
9.2Tools & Test Equipment ................................................................................................................................... 72
9.3Care of Modules................................................................................................................................................ 73
This handbook is for use solely with the equipment identified by the AFL Part Number shown
on the front cover. It is not to be used with any other equipment unless specifically authorised
by Aerial Facilities Limited.
Purpose
The purpose of this handbook is to provide the user/maintainer with sufficient information to
service and repair the equipment to the level agreed. Maintenance and adjustments to any
deeper level must be performed by AFL, normally at the company’s repair facility in Chesham,
England.
This handbook has been prepared in accordance with BS 4884, and AFL’s Quality procedures,
which maintain the company’s registration to BS EN ISO 9001:2000 and to the R&TTE
Directive of the European Parliament. Copies of the relevant certificates and the company
Quality Manual can be supplied on application to the Quality Manager.
This document fulfils the relevant requirements of Article 6 of the R&TTE Directive.
Limitation of Information Notice
This manual is written for the use of technically competent operators/service persons. No
liability is accepted by AFL for use or misuse of this manual, the information contained
therein, or the consequences of any actions resulting from the use of the said information,
including, but not limited to, descriptive, procedural, typographical, arithmetical, or listing
errors.
Furthermore, AFL does not warrant the absolute accuracy of the information contained within
this manual, or it’s completeness, fitness for purpose, or scope.
AFL has a policy of continuous product development and enhancement, and as such, reserves
the right to amend, alter, update and generally change the contents, appearance and pertinence
of this document without notice.
All AFL products carry a twelve month warranty from date of shipment. The warranty is
expressly on a return to base repair or exchange basis and the warranty cover does not extend to
on-site repair or complete unit exchange.
DECLARES, UNDER OUR SOLE RESPONSIBILITY THAT THE FOLLOWING PRODUCT
0086
PRODUCT PART NO[S] 55-154701, 55-154801
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION Weehawken VHF amplifier system
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIVES:
1999/5/EC The Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive Annex V and its amending
directives
HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED TO THE FOLLOWING STANDARD[S] OR OTHER
NORMATIVE DOCUMENT[S]:
BS EN 60950 Information technology equipment. Safety. General requirements
ETS EN 301 489-1 EMC standard for radio equipment and services. Part 1. Common technical
requirements
I hereby declare that the equipment named above has been designed to comply with the relevant sections of the
above referenced specifications. The unit complies with all essential requirements of the Directives.
Repeater or
Cell Enhancer A Radio Frequency (RF) amplifier which can simultaneously
amplify and re-broadcast Mobile Station (MS) and Base
Transceiver Station (BTS) signals.
Band SelectiveRepeater A Cell Enhancer designed for operation on a range of channels
within a specified frequency band.
Channel Selective
Repeater A Cell Enhancer, designed for operation on specified
channel(s) within a specified frequency band. Channel
frequencies may be factory set or on-site programmable.
AC Alternating Current
AGC Automatic Gain Control
BBU Battery Backup Unit
BTS Base Transceiver Station
CEMS Coverage Enhanced Management System
C/NR Carrier-to-Noise Ratio
DC Direct Current
Downlink (D/L) RF signals Tx from the BTS to the Master Site
FO Fibre Optic
GND Ground
ID Identification Number
LED Light Emitting Diode
LNA Low Noise Amplifier
LPA Low Power Amplifier
MOU Master Optical Unit
M.S. Mobile Station
MTBF Mean Time Between Failures
N/A Not Applicable
N/C No Connection
OFR On Frequency Repeater
OIP3 Output Third Order Intercept Point = RF
+(C/I)/2
out
PA Power Amplifier
RF Radio Frequency
RSA Receiver/Splitter Amplifier
Rx Receiver
S/N Serial Number
Tx Transmitter
Uplink (U/L) RF signals transmitted from the MS to the BTS
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
WDM Wave division multiplex
Cell Enhancers supplied from the mains must be connected to grounded outlets and earthed in
conformity with appropriate local, national and international electricity supply and safety
regulations.
1.2 Electric Shock Hazard
Electrical shocks due to faulty mains driven power supplies.
Whilst ever potentially present in any electrical equipment, such a condition would be
minimised by quality installation practice and thorough testing at:
a) Original assembly
b) Commissioning
c) Regular intervals, thereafter.
All test equipment to be in good working order prior to its use. High current power supplies can
be dangerous because of the possibility of substantial arcing. Always switch off during
disconnection and reconnection.
RF radiation, (especially at UHF frequencies) arising from transmitter outputs connected to
AFL’s equipment, must be considered a safety hazard.
This condition might only occur in the event of cable disconnection, or because a ‘spare’ output
has been left unterminated. Either of these conditions would impair the system’s efficiency. No
investigation should be carried out until all RF power sources have been removed. This would
always be a wise precaution, despite the severe mismatch between the impedance of an N type
connector at 50, and that of free space at 377, which would severely mitigate against the
efficient radiation of RF power. Radio frequency burns could also be a hazard, if any RF power
carrying components were to be carelessly touched!
Antenna positions should be chosen to comply with requirements (both local & statutory)
regarding exposure of personnel to RF radiation. When connected to an antenna, the unit is
capable of producing RF field strengths, which may exceed guideline safe values especially if
used with antennas having appreciable gain. In this regard the use of directional antennas with
backscreens and a strict site rule that personnel must remain behind the screen while the RF
power is on, is strongly recommended.
Where the equipment is used near power lines, or in association with temporary masts not
having lightning protection, the use of a safety earth connected to the case-earthing bolt is
strongly advised.
Beryllium Oxide, also known as Beryllium Monoxide, or Thermalox™, is sometimes used in
devices within equipment produced by Aerial Facilities Ltd. Beryllium oxide dust can be toxic if
inhaled, leading to chronic respiratory problems. It is harmless if ingested or by contact.
Products that contain beryllium are load terminations (dummy loads) and some power
amplifiers. These products can be identified by a yellow and black “skull and crossbones”
danger symbol (shown above). They are marked as hazardous in line with international
regulations, but pose no threat under normal circumstances. Only if a component containing
beryllium oxide has suffered catastrophic failure, or exploded, will there be any danger of the
formation of dust. Any dust that has been created will be contained within the equipment
module as long as the module remains sealed. For this reason, any module carrying the yellow
and black danger sign should not be opened. If the equipment is suspected of failure, or is at the
end of its life-cycle, it must be returned to Aerial Facilities Ltd for disposal.
To return such equipment, please contact the Quality Department, who will give you a Returned
Materials Authorisation (RMA) number. Please quote this number on the packing documents,
and on all correspondence relating to the shipment.
PolyTetraFluoroEthylene, (P.T.F.E.) and P.T.F.E. Composite Materials
Many modules/components in AFL equipment contain P.T.F.E. as part of the RF insulation
barrier.
This material should never be heated to the point where smoke or fumes are evolved. Any
person feeling drowsy after coming into contact with P.T.F.E. especially dust or fumes should
seek medical attention.
The Weehawken tunnel radio system is designed to amplify various bands of radio frequencies,
in either channelised or band selective modes. This handbook is dedicated to the VHF radio
repeating system. All the hardware (except the River Portal remote BDA) is built into standard
19” rack mounted cabinets which have an environmental IP rating of 54.
The systems in this document will be described separately, as individual shelves (VHF) and the
various passive combiners, splitters and cross-band coupler shelves will be described in other
documents. Every active module in the entire system has a dedicated alarm and these are series
wired within the shelves to a relay which gives a volt-free output pair for each shelf which is
wired to a ‘krone-block’ termination in the rack cabinet.
3.5 Weehawken VHF System Frequencies Look-up Table
Agency
Jersey City Medical Center - EMS VHF CHN 1 153.7850 153.7850
North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue VHF CHN 2 154.3250 154.3250
NJ Statewide Police (SPEN) VHF CHN 3 154.6800 154.6800
Jersey City Medical Center - EMS VHF CHN 4 155.2350 155.2350
Jersey City Medical Center - EMS VHF CHN 5 155.2800 155.2800
North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue VHF CHN 6 158.8650 154.1450
Weehawken Township VHF CHN 7 159.0900 159.0900
Weehawken Township VHF CHN 8 159.2100 159.2100
New Jersey Transit Police Dept. VHF CHN 9 161.5200 160.8300
The simplex shelves are part of the VHF amplification and have crystal filters instead of
bandpass filters to set bandwidths. There are two downlink bands and three uplink bands, the
downlink paths having isolators fitted to each of the 5Watt output stages to prevent two
outputs from interfering with each other. All amplifiers have built-in alarms which are
configured as a summary, volt-free relay contact pair terminating at pins 1 & 2 on the ‘D’
type alarm connector.
Note that the control circuitry is omitted from the system diagram for reasons of clarity and
simplification.
The duplex shelves are part of the VHF amplification and like the simplex shelves, have
crystal filters instead of bandpass filters to set bandwidths. There are two downlink bands
and three uplink bands, the downlink paths having isolators fitted to each of the 5Watt
output stages to prevent reflections from interfering with the other channel.
The uplink channel module has a dedicated noise muting circuit fitted externally to the
channel module which operates when the downlink path is active.
All amplifiers have built-in alarms which are configured as a summary, volt-free relay
contact pair terminating at pins 1 & 2 on the ‘D’ type alarm connector.
The crystal splitter shelf is used in the downlink path to isolate the VHF channel frequencies
at the inputs to the cell enhancers which amplify them. These frequencies are initially
processed by bandpass filters which eliminate spurious frequencies prior to being passed by
the crystal filters which have a much narrower bandwidth than the filters before
amplification by their respective channel selective modules.
Being passive shelves, no alarms are present.
The VHF downlink combiner shelf is the interface between the downlink VHF cell
enhancers and the tunnel leaky feeder outputs. It consists of a number of two-to-one hybrid
couplers which combine the outputs to two bandpass filters which only allow the specified
VHF band to pass.
Being a passive shelf, no alarms are present.
The uplink VHF crystal splitter shelf is the complement to the downlink crystal combiner
shelf and uses the uplink frequency bands instead of the downlink bands.
Being a passive shelf, no alarms are present.
This shelf is the interface between the uplink VHF cell enhancers and the Tx antenna output
port. The outputs of all the cell enhancers are first combined by combinations of two-to- one
hybrid combiners which feed a triplexer filter array, which in turn, couple these three signals
to the Tx antenna output port.
This being a passive shelf, no alarms are present.
The power supply shelves are separate for the VHF/UHF and 800MHz cell enhancers. The
VHF/UHF supply shelf is a 24V DC shelf which supplies six, 24Volt XLR connector
outputs at a maximum total output power of 800Watts DC. These DC outputs are fused at a
10Amp rating although four of the six DC outputs will be drawing less than 5Amps at any
one time.
6.1.2 UHF/VHF Power Supply Technical Specification
PARAMETER SPECIFICATION
Input:110V AC @50/60Hz (single port)
Outputs:6 x 24V DC @ 10A each
Front panel indicators:(x 2) Green LED for ‘PSU1/PSU2 ON’’
The alarm shelf acts as an alarm concentrator for all the alarms in the system. Firstly, within
each shelf containing active components, the individually alarmed modules are ‘summed’
and presented to that shelves’ 9-way alarm connector as a volt-free relay contact pair. These
alarm contact pairs are wired to the krone block in the lower rack space and from there the
pairs are presented to the alarm shelf. At the alarm shelf the pairs are summed together to
form an overall system alarm. In this way a system alarm may be broken down to scrutinise
the shelf alarm and ultimately to the individual modules’ alarms.
This shelf has its own dedicated mains-driven power 12V DC supply.
As all the alarms in the system are ‘held closed loops’, should any power supply fail, the
main system alarm will be triggered.
19-000724 1U 19" UNIT FRONT PANEL FAB 1
19-000725 1U 19" UNIT 400 DEEP CHASSIS + BKT 1
19-000826 2U,3U,4U 19" UNIT 400 DEEP LID 1
20-001601 12V RELAY BOARD 4
91-520003 POWER SWITCHD/FUSED MAINS INL. 1
91-520005 MAINS LEAD 1
91-520010 MAINS RETAINING CLIP 1
91-600014 'D' 9 WAY SOCKET S/B (NON FILTERED) 8
91-600015 'D' 9 WAY PLUG S/B (NON FILTERED) 8
96-300072 12V POWER SUPPLY TML15112C 1
96-600001 INSULATING BOOT LARGE 1
96-700034 LED RED 5mm IP67 8
96-700035 LED GREEN 5mm IP67 1
Note that the sub unit modules are tabled in part number order – the modules pertinent to any
particular shelf will be found in the parts list under the heading of that shelf.
VHF High Band Bandpass + Notch Filter (01-003105)
7.1
7.1.1 Description
The bandpass filters are multi-section designs with a bandwidth dependent upon the passband
frequencies, (both tuned to customer requirements). The response shape is basically Chebyshev
with a passband design ripple of 0.1dB. The filters are of helical design, and are carefully
aligned during manufacture in order to optimise the insertion loss, VSWR and intermodulation
characteristics of the unit. The tuned elements are silver-plated to reduce surface ohmic losses
and maintain a good VSWR figure and 50 load at the input and output ports. The bandpass
filters fitted here have a notch filter as the final tuned element in their construction to
completely eliminate unwanted frequencies close to the band edge.
The notch reject filters should require no routine maintenance, being totally passive devices. If
a filter is suspected of failure, no invasive measures are recommended as even opening the case
of the device could render it unusable.
The Hybrid Combiner used is a device for accurately matching two or more RF signals to single
or multiple ports, whilst maintaining an accurate 50Ω load to all inputs/outputs and ensuring
that the VSWR and insertion losses are kept to a minimum. Any unused ports will be terminated
with an appropriate 50Ω load.
7.2.2 Technical Specification
PARAMETER SPECIFICATION
Frequency range:ƒo ± 10% (50 – 500 MHz)
Bandwidth:ƒo ± 10%
Inputs/Outputs:2 each
Insertion Loss:<3.3 dB
Isolation between Input/Output ports:>27 dB
Return Loss (VSWR) – Input/Output:1.3:1
Impedance:50
Temperature range
operation:-10°C to +60°C
storage:-20°C to +70°C
MTBF:>180,000 hours
Power Rating – Splitter:Up to 150 Watts (load dependant)
The transmitter hybrid couplers provide isolation from unwanted reflected frequencies to/from
the leaky feeder antennas. They are 4 port devices with the one unused port terminated
internally with a 50 dummy load.
Being passive devices, the hybrid couplers should be maintenance free over their entire lifetime
and have an extremely high MTBF figure. It is not recommended that the top cover be removed
or any of the internal components needlessly touched, since the original factory
alignment/tuning would be extremely hard to reproduce in a ‘field’ environment.
The 1 Watt, 3dB Splitter/Combiner used is a device for accurately matching two or more RF
signals to single or multiple ports, whilst maintaining an accurate 50Ω load to all inputs/outputs
and ensuring that the VSWR and insertion losses are kept to a minimum. Any unused ports will
be terminated with an appropriate 50Ω load.
The purpose of fitting an isolator to the output of a transmitter in a multi-transmitter
environment is such that each output is afforded a degree of isolation from every other. Were
this not to be the case, two simultaneous transmissions could interfere to create intermodulation
products, especially in the non-linear power amplifier output stages of the transmitters. Whilst
this effect would not affect the intelligibility of the two original transmissions, a further two
new transmissions would be created which could themselves cause interference to third party
users.
The ferrite isolator is a ferro-magnetic device, which has directional properties. In the forward
direction, RF arriving at the input is passed to the output with minimal attenuation. In the
reverse direction, RF arriving at the output due to reflected power from a badly matched load, or
due to coupling with another transmitter, is routed into an RF load where it is absorbed. The
isolator therefore functions to prevent reflected RF energy reaching the power amplifier where it
could cause intermodulation products or premature device failure.
In many practical applications for Cell Enhancers etc., the gain in each path is found to be
excessive. Therefore, provision is made within the unit for the setting of attenuation in each
path, to reduce the gain.
7.6.2 Switched Attenuators
The AFL switched attenuators are available in two different types; 0 – 30dB in 2 dB steps, or 0
– 15dB in 1 dB steps. The attenuation is simply set using the four miniature toggle switches on
the top of each unit. Each switch is clearly marked with the attenuation it provides, and the total
attenuation in line is the sum of the values switched in. They are designed to maintain an
accurate 50 impedance over their operating frequency at both input and output.
Amplifier Alarm Boards are fitted to monitor the bias conditions of AFL Class A amplifiers
which remain constant in normal operation. Any departure from normal bias conditions is a
result of device failure, excess temperature, over-driving or oscillation (excessive power).
In normal operation, the Class A bias circuit of the amplifier develops a constant voltage of
1.20V across the collector current setting resistor. The Amplifier Alarm Board is a window
comparator device, which is adjusted to sense a departure from this condition. Several different
alarm outputs are provided to simplify interfacing, (Relay Contact, Open Collector, and TTL
Logic Levels)
The basic version of the Alarm Board (12-002801) monitors a single amplifier stage. A threestage version (12-002201) is used on complex amplifiers where three separate comparators have
their outputs logically combined to a common output stage. Failure of any one stage will activate
the alarms.
Note that the alarm board has a green Light Emitting Diode located near to the centre of the
printed circuit board, which is illuminated on ‘Good’, and extinguished on ‘Alarm’. It is therefore
a simple matter to identify an active module failure, by searching for an Alarm Board which has
its green LED extinguished. A simple test of the alarm board is possible by shorting across the
monitor inputs, pins 1 and 2, 3 and 4 or across pins 5 and 6. This last monitor input is inactive if
the board has been converted to a two way alarm board. (Refer to relevant amplifier alarm wiring
diagram.)
1) Volt-free change over relay contacts.
2) Open collector NPN transistor pulls low on alarm.
3) TTL driver.
The use of precision voltage sources and resistors has eliminated the need for initial adjustment
or calibration, and the board will function correctly with a wide variation in power supply
voltage (8 to 30 volts, nominal supply is 12 or 24Volts).
There are two selectable link options on the three-way board:
LINK1 - Removed to convert to two-way alarm board.
LINK2 - Removed to isolate 0V from chassis earth.
The one way alarm board only has the 0V isolation link (LINK2) fitted.
In systems using simplex channel switching, it is necessary to be able to distinguish between
a ‘normal’ switching operation and erroneous modes where faults in the detector circuitry
may cause data errors but not necessarily fire the alarms. The simplex alarm/mute board is
designed to differentiate between normal and spurious switching signals for single or
multiple stage amplifiers.
7.9 5Watt Low Power Amplifier (12-004902)
7.9.1 Description
The low power amplifier used is a triple stage solid-state low-noise amplifier. Class AB
circuitry is used in the unit to ensure excellent linearity over a very wide dynamic range. The
three active devices are very moderately rated to provide a long trouble-free working life. There
are no adjustments on this amplifier, and in the unlikely event of failure then the entire amplifier
should be replaced.
This unit is employed where it is necessary to derive two fixed voltage power supply rails from
some higher voltage. Typically it is used to derive 5, 8, 12 or 15V from a 24V input.
The circuit is based upon a pair of LM257 series variable voltage regulators (LM2576, 12 &
15V & LM2575, 5V), which are each capable of supplying an absolute maximum of 1.5A
output current. Note that at full output current, the dissipation of the device must remain within
design limits, bearing in mind the voltage which is being dropped across it. The maximum
allowable dissipation will also depend on the efficiency of the heatsink on which the device is
mounted.
The operating frequency for each channel in each repeater is programmed by 16 DIL (Dual
In Line) switches. The programming switches are mounted in the Channel Control Module.
The Channel Selectivity Modules are connected to the Channel Control Module via multiway ribbon cables.
Adjacent to the DIL switches for each channel is a toggle switch to turn on and off individual
channels as required. A green LED indicates the power status of each channel.
A red LED shows the alarm condition for each channel. An illuminated alarm LED indicates
that the synthesiser has not achieved phase lock and that the module is disabled. There is a
problem which requires investigation, often a frequency programmed outside the operating
frequency range.
The following information is necessary before attempting the programming procedure.
The channel selectivity module is employed when the Cell Enhancer requirement dictates that
very narrow bandwidths (single operating channels), must be selected from within the operating
passband. One channel selectivity module is required for each channel.
The Channel Selectivity Module is an Up/Down frequency converter that mixes the incoming
channel frequency with a synthesised local oscillator, so that it is down-converted to an
Intermediate Frequency (IF) in the upper HF range. An eight pole crystal filter in the IF
amplifier provides the required selectivity to define the operating passband of the Cell Enhancer
to a single PMR channel. The same local oscillator then converts the selected IF signal back to
the channel frequency.
Selectivity is obtained from a fixed bandwidth block filter operating at an intermediate
frequency (IF) in the low VHF range. This filter may be internal to the channel selectivity
module (Crystal or SAW filter) or an externally mounted bandpass filter, (LC or Helical
Resonator). Various IF bandwidths can therefore be accommodated. A synthesized Local
Oscillator is employed in conjunction with high performance frequency mixers, to translate
between the signal frequency and IF.
The operating frequency of each channel selectivity module is set by the programming of
channel selectivity module frequencies and is achieved digitally, via hard wired links, banks of
DIP switches, or via an onboard RS232 control module, providing the ability to remotely set
channel frequencies.
Automatic Level Control (ALC) is provided within each channel selectivity module such that
the output level is held constant for high level input signals. This feature prevents saturation of
the output mixer and of the associated amplifiers.
Alarms within the module inhibit the channel if the synthesised frequency is not locked. The
synthesiser will not usually go out of lock unless a frequency far out of band is programmed.
The channel selectivity module is extremely complex and, with the exception of channel
frequency programming within the design bandwidth, it cannot be adjusted or repaired without
extensive laboratory facilities and the necessary specialised personnel. If a fault is suspected
with any channel selectivity module it should be tested by substitution and the complete, suspect
module should then be returned to AFL for investigation. The channel selective modules fitted
to the VHF cell enhancers in the Weehawken system are all hard-wired and therefore not
adjustable, however, the modules fitted to the UHF and 800MHz enhancers have DIP switch
controller modules fitted, allowing the set frequency to be changed on site. There is no
functionality to change the frequencies remotely.
The General Purpose Relay Board allows the inversion of signals and the isolation of circuits.
It is equipped with two dual pole change-over relays RL1 and RL2, with completely isolated
wiring, accessed via screw terminals.
Both relays are provided with polarity protection diodes and diodes for suppressing the
transients caused by "flywheel effect" which can destroy switching transistors or induce spikes
on neighbouring circuits. It’s common use is to amalgamate all the alarm signals into one,
volts-free relay contact pair for the main alarm system.
Note that the board is available for different voltages (12 or 24V) depending on the type of
relays fitted at RL1 and RL2.
7.14 12 & 24V Single Relay Board (80-008901 & 80-008902)
7.14.1 Description
The General Purpose Relay Board allows the inversion of signals and the isolation of
circuits. It is equipped with a single dual pole change-over relay RL1, with completely
isolated wiring, accessed via a 15 way in-line connector.
The relay is provided with polarity protection diodes and diodes for suppressing the
transients caused by "flywheel effect" which can destroy switching transistors or induce
spikes on neighbouring circuits. It’s common use is to amalgamate all the alarm signals into
one, volts-free relay contact pair for the main alarm system.
Note that the board is available for different voltages (12 or 24V) depending on the type of
relay fitted at RL1.
7.15 24V, 400W Power Supply Pack (96-300054)
7.15.1 Description
The power supply unit is a switched-mode type capable of supplying 24V DC at 17.0Amps
continuously. Equipment of this type typically requires approximately 10.0 Amps at 24V DC,
so the PSU will be used conservatively ensuring a long operational lifetime.
No routine maintenance of the PSU is required. If a fault is suspected, then the output voltage
from the power supply may be measured on its output terminals. This is typically set to 24.5V
using the multi-turn potentiometer mounted close to the DC output studs on the PSU PCB.
All the PSU’s used in AFL Cell Enhancers are capable of operation from either 110 or 220V
nominal AC supplies. The line voltage is sensed automatically, so no adjustment or link
setting is needed by the operator.
7.15.2 Technical Specification
AC Input Supply
Voltages:
110 or 220V nominal
90 to 132 or 180 to 264V (absolute limits)
When this equipment is initially commissioned, please use the equipment set-up record sheet in
Appendix A. This will help both the installation personnel and AFL should these figures be
needed for future reference or diagnosis.
General Remarks
8.1
The size and weight of the equipment racks mean that they represent a significant topple hazard
unless they are securely bolted to the floor though the mounting holes in the base of the unit. In
the interests of safety this should be done before any electrical, RF, or optical connections are
made.
The equipment must be located on a flat, level surface that is made from a material suitable for
bearing the weight of the rack assembly. If the installer is in any doubt about the suitability of a
site it is recommended that he consult with an appropriately qualified Structural Engineer.
It is important in determining the location of the rack within the room that space is allowed for
access to the front and rear of the equipment. To enable maintenance to be carried out, the
doors must be able to fully open.
The location must be served with a duct to allow the entry of cables into the rack.
The mains power supply is connected to the terminal strip located on the bulkhead at the rear of
the equipment at floor level. It is recommended that the connection is made by a qualified
electrician, who must satisfy himself that the supply will be the correct voltage and of sufficient
capacity.
All electrical and RF connection should be completed and checked prior to power being
applied for the first time.
All RF connections are made to the cable termination, located on the bulkhead at the rear of the
equipment at floor level. Care must be taken to ensure that the correct connections are made
with particular attention made to the base station TX/RX ports. In the event that the base
transmitter is connected to the RX output of the rack, damage to the equipment will be done if
the base station transmitter is then keyed.
Ensure that connections are kept clean and are fully tightened.
8.3 Commissioning
Once all connections are made the equipment is ready for commissioning.
To commission the system the test equipment detailed in Section 10.2 will be required.
Using the system diagrams and the end-to-end test specification, the equipment should be
tested to ensure correct operation. Typical RF levels that are not listed in the end-to-end
specification, such as input levels to the fibre transmitters are detailed in the maintenance
section of this manual.
On initial power up the system alarm indicators on the front panels of the equipment should be
checked. A red LED illuminated indicates a fault in that particular shelf that must be
investigated before proceeding with the commissioning. A green LED on each shelf
illuminates, to indicate that the power supply is connected to the shelf.
In the event that any part of the system does not function correctly as expected, check all
connections to ensure that they are to the correct port, that the interconnecting cables are not
faulty and that they are tightened. The majority of commissioning difficulties arise from
problems with the interconnecting cables and connectors.
All AFL equipment is individually tested to specification prior to despatch. Failure of this type
of equipment is not common. Experience has shown that a large number of fault conditions
relating to tunnel installations result from simple causes often occurring as result of
transportation, unpacking and installation. Below are listed some common problems which have
resulted in poor performance or an indicated non-functioning of the equipment.
• Mains power not connected or not switched on.
• External connectors not fitted or incorrectly fitted.
• Internal connectors becoming loose due to transport vibration.
• Wiring becoming detached as a result of heavy handling.
• Input signals not present due to faults in the aerial and feeder system.
• Base transmissions not present due to fault at the base station.
• Modems fitted with incorrect software configuration.
• Changes to channel frequencies and inhibiting channels.
• Hand held radio equipment not set to repeater channels.
• Hand held radio equipment not set to correct base station.
9.1.2 Fault Isolation
In the event that the performance of the system is suspect, a methodical and logical approach to
the problem will reveal the cause of the difficulty. The System consists of modules fitted in a
wall-mounted, environmentally protected enclosure.
Transmissions from the main base stations are passed though the system to the mobile radio
equipment; this could be a handheld radio or a transceiver in a vehicle. This path is referred to
as the downlink. The return signal path from the mobile radio equipment to the base station is
referred to as the uplink.
The first operation is to check the alarms of each of the active units and determine that the
power supplies to the equipment are connected and active.
This can be achieved remotely (via CEMS, the RS232 Coverage Enhancement Management
System, if fitted), or locally with the front panel LED’s. The green LED on the front panel
should be illuminated, while the red alarm indicator should be off. If an Alarm is on, then that
individual module must be isolated and individually tested against the original test
specification.
The individual amplifier units within the shelf have a green LED showing through a hole in
their piggy-back alarm board, which is illuminated if the unit is working correctly. If an
amplifier is suspect, check the DC power supply to the unit. If no other fault is apparent use a
spectrum analyser to measure the incoming signal level at the input and then after reconnecting
the amplifier input, measure the output level. Consult with the system diagram to determine the
expected gain and compare result.
In the event that there are no alarms on and all units appear to be functioning it will be
necessary to test the system in a systematic manner to confirm correct operation.
Once a faulty component has been identified, a decision must be made on the appropriate
course to carry out a repair. A competent engineer can quickly remedy typical faults such as
faulty connections or cables. The exceptions to this are cable assemblies connecting bandpass
filter assemblies that are manufactured to critical lengths to maintain a 50-ohm system. Care
should be taken when replacing cables or connectors to ensure that items are of the correct
specification. The repair of component modules such as amplifiers and bandpass filters will not
usually be possible in the field, as they frequently require specialist knowledge and test
equipment to ensure correct operation. It is recommended that items of this type are replaced
with a spare unit and the faulty unit returned to AFL for repair.
9.1.7 Service Support
Advice and assistance with maintaining and servicing this system are available by contacting
Aerial Facilities Ltd.
NOTE
Individual modules are not intended to be repaired on site and attempts at repair will
invalidate active warranties. Company policy is that individual modules should be
repaired by replacement. Aerial Facilities Ltd maintains a high level of stock of most
modules which can usually be despatched at short notice to support this policy.
9.2 Tools & Test Equipment
The minimum tools and test equipment needed to successfully service this AFL product are as
follows:-
Spectrum analyser: 100kHz to 2GHz (Dynamic range = 90dB).
Signal Generator: 30MHz to 2GHz (-120dBm to 0dBm o/p level).
Attenuator: 20dB, 10W, DC-2GHz, (N male – N female).
Test Antenna: Yagi or dipole for operating frequency.
Digital multi-meter: Universal Volt-Ohm-Amp meter.
Test cable x 2: N male – N male, 2M long RG214.
Test cable x 2: SMA male – N male, 1m long RG223.
Hand tools: Philips #1&2 tip screwdriver.
Many of the active modules contain semiconductor devices utilising MOS technology, which
can be damaged by electrostatic discharge. Correct handling of such modules is mandatory to
ensure their long-term reliability.
To prevent damage to a module, it must be withdrawn/inserted with care. The module may have
connectors on its underside, which might not be visible to the service operative.
9.3.2 Module Removal (LNA’s, general procedure):
The following general instructions should be followed to remove a module:
1 Remove power to the unit
2 Remove all visible connectors (RF, DC & alarm)
3 Release module retaining screws.
4 Slowly but firmly, pull the module straight out of its position. Take care not to twist/turn the
module during withdrawal. (When the module is loose, care may be needed, as there may be
concealed connections underneath).
9.3.3 Module Replacement (general):
1 Carefully align the module into its location then slowly push the module directly straight
into its position, taking care not to twist/turn it during insertion.
2 Reconnect all connectors, RF, alarm, power etc.,(concealed connectors may have to be
connected first).
3 Replace retaining screws (if any).
4 Double-check all connections before applying power.
9.3.4 Power Amplifiers
1) Remove power to the unit. (Switch off @ mains/battery, or remove DC in connector)
2) Remove alarm wires from alarm screw terminal block or disconnect multi-way alarm
connector.
3) Carefully disconnect the RF input and output coaxial connectors (usually SMA)
If alarm board removal is not required, go to step 5.
4) There is (usually) a plate attached to the alarm board which fixes it to the amplifier, remove
its retaining screws and the alarm board can be withdrawn from the amplifier in its entirety.
On certain types of amplifier the alarm board is not mounted on a dedicated mounting plate;
in this case it will have to firstly be removed by unscrewing it from the mounting pillars, in
most cases, the pillars will not have not have to be removed before lifting the amplifier.
5) If the amplifier to be removed has a heatsink attached, there may be several different ways it
can have been assembled. The most commonly used method, is screws through the front of
the heatsink to threaded screw holes (or nuts and bolts), into the amplifier within the main
case. If the heatsink is mounted on the rear of the main case (e.g., against a wall in the case
of wall mounted enclosures), then the fixing method for the heatsink will be from within the
case, (otherwise the enclosure would have to be removed from the wall in order to remove
the heatsink).
When the heatsink has been removed, the amplifier may be unscrewed from the main casing
by its four corner fixings and gently withdrawn.
Fitting a new power amplifier module will be the exact reverse of the above.
Note: Do not forget to apply fresh heatsink compound to the heatsink/main case joint
and also between the amplifier and the main case.
9.3.5 Low Power Amplifier Replacement
1 Disconnect the mains power supply and disconnect the 24V dc supply connector for the
LPA.
2 Disconnect the RF input and output cables from the LPA.
3 Disconnect the alarm connector.
4 Remove the alarm monitoring wires from (D type connector) pins 9 and 10.
5 Remove the LPA module by removing the four retaining screws, replace with a new LPA
module and secure it with the screws.
6 Connect the RF cables to the LPA input and output connectors. Reconnect the wires to the
alarm board connector pins 9 and 10.
7 Reconnect the DC supply connector and turn the mains switch on.
Note: Tighten SMA connectors using only a dedicated SMA torque spanner. If SMA
connectors are over-tightened, irreparable damage will occur. . Do not use adjustable pliers
to loosen/tighten SMA connectors.
Also take care not to drop or knock the module as this can damage (or misalign in the case
of tuned passive modules) sensitive internal components. Always store the modules in an
environmentally friendly location
9.3.6 Module Transportation:
To maintain the operation, performance and reliability of any module it must be stored and
transported correctly. Any module not installed in a whole system must be kept in an anti-static
bag or container. These bags or containers are normally identified by being pink or black, and
are often marked with an ESD label. Any module sent back to AFL for investigation/repair must
be so protected. Please contact AFL’s quality department before returning a module.
Site Name: Client Name:
Date: AFL Equip. Model N.
ANTENNA SYSTEMS
A - Service Antenna
B – Donor Antenna
C – Service Feeder
D – Donor Feeder
G – Input signal level from donor BTS dBm
Parameter Comments Value
Input signal level (G) dBm
CE max. o/p power (E) dBm
Service antenna gain (A) dB
Service antenna feeder loss (C) dB
Effective radiated power (ERP)
Model Gain Azimuth Comments
Type Loss Length Comments
INITIAL PARAMETERS
E – CE Output Power dBm
F – Antenna Isolation dB
Operating Voltage V
DOWNLINK CALCULATIONS
Gain setting
Isolation required(Gain + 10dB) dB
Attenuator settingCE gain-gain setting dB
E - G
E+A-C
dBm
If the input signal level in the uplink path is known and steady, use the following calculation
table to determine the gain setting. If the CE features Automatic Gain Control the attenuator
should be set to zero and if not, then the attenuation setting for both uplink and downlink
should be similar.