All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be copied, distributed, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval
system, or translated into any human or computer language without the prior written permission of
Axell Wireless Ltd.
The manufacturer has made every effort to ensure that the instructions contained in this document
are adequate and free of errors and omissions. The manufacturer will, if necessary, explain issues
which may not be covered by this document. The manufacturer's liability for any errors in the
document is limited to the correction of errors and the aforementioned advisory services.
This document has been prepared to be used by professional and properly trained personnel, and
the customer assumes full responsibility when using them. The manufacturer welcomes customer
comments as part of the process of continual development and improvement of the documentation
in the best way possible from the user's viewpoint. Please submit your comments to the nearest
Axell Wireless sales representative.
1.2 Contact Information
Headquarters Axell Wireless
Aerial House
Asheridge Road
Chesham
Buckinghamshire HP5 2QD
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1494 777000
Fax: +44 1494 777002
Commercial inquiries info@axellwireless.com
Web site www.axellwireless.com
Support issues support@axellwireless.com
Technical Support Line,
English speaking
Contact information for Axell Wireless offices in other countries can be found on our web site,
This Product Manual provides the following information:
Description of the BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC repeater
(hereinafter referred to as BSF-3604)
Procedures for installation, setup, configuration and checking the proper operation of the
unit
Maintenance and troubleshooting procedures
Intended Audience
This Product Manual is intended for experienced technicians and engineers. It is assumed that the
customers installing, operating, and maintaining Axell Wireless Repeaters are familiar with the
basic functionality of Repeaters.
Notice
Confidential - Authorized Customer Use
This document may be used in its complete form only and is solely for the use of Axell Wireless
employees and authorized Axell Wireless channels or customers. The material herein is
proprietary to Axell Wireless. Any unauthorized reproduction, use or disclosure of any part thereof
is strictly prohibited.
All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Disclaimer of Liability
Contents herein are current as of the date of publication. Axell Wireless reserves the right to
change the contents without prior notice. The information furnished by Axell Wireless in this
document is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, Axell Wireless assumes no
responsibility for its use. In no event shall Axell Wireless be liable for any damage resulting from
loss of data, loss of use, or loss of profits and Axell Wireless further disclaims any and all liability
for indirect, incidental, special, consequential or other similar damages. This disclaimer of liability
applies to all products, publications and services during and after the warranty period.
Safety to Personnel
Before installing or replacing any of the equipment, the entire manual should be read and
understood.
This equipment is to be installed only in a restricted access location where access is
restricted to is restricted to SERVICE PERSONNEL and to USERS who have been
instructed on the restrictions and the required precautions to be taken.
Throughout this manual, there are "Caution" warnings. "Caution" calls attention to a
procedure or practice, which, if ignored, may result in injury or damage to the system,
system component or even the user. Do not perform any procedure preceded by a
"Caution" until the described conditions are fully understood and met.
This notice calls attention to a procedure or practice that, if ignored, may
result in personal injury or in damage to the system or system component. Do
not perform any procedure preceded by a "CAUTION!" until described
conditions are fully understood and met.
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
1.4 Compliance with FCC
Part 90 Signal Boosters THIS IS A 90.219 CLASS B DEVICE
WARNING: This is NOT a CONSUMER device. This device is designed for installation by FCC LICENCEES and QUALIFIED INSTALLERS. You MUST have an FCC
LICENCE or express consent of an FCC Licensee to operate this device.
You MUST register Class B signal boosters (as defined in 47 CFR 90.219) online at
www.fcc.gov/signal-boosters/registration.
Unauthorized use may result in significant forfeiture penalties, including penalties in
excess of $100,000 for each continuing violation.
The installation procedure must result in the signal booster complying with FCC
requirements 90.219(d). In order to meet FCC requirements90.219 (d), it may be
necessary for the installer to reduce the UL and/or DL output power for certain
installations.
1.4.1 FCC Part 15
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.
If not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, this equipment generates, uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to RF reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the Donor antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an power outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
1.4.2 Unauthorized Changes to Equipment
Changes or Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment
1.4.3 FCC RF Exposure Limits
This unit complies with FCC RF exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment
can only be installed for applications, driving passive or active DAS systems. All antennas must be
operated at a minimum distance of 45 cm between the radiator and any person’s body.
Installation of an antenna must comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements. The antenna
used for this transmitter must be mounted on permanent structures.
The FCC regulations mandate that the ERP of type B signal boosters should not exceed 5W, this
is equivalent to 8.2W EIRP.
Therefore the max antenna gain allowed for this type of signal booster should be limited to the
values given by equation 1 (below) for the service antenna.
Equation (1) - Max SERVICE antenna gain
Max SERVICE antenna gain (dBi) = 39.1 – (37dBm - # of antennas in dB – cable losses in dB).
For example:
No. of Antennas Cable Losses Max Allowed Antenna Gain
1.4.5 Compliance with FCC deployment rule regarding the radiation of noise
and intermodulation product
Good engineering practice must be used in regard to the signal booster’s radiation of
intermodulation products and noise. Thus, the gain of the signal booster should be set so that the
ERP of the output of intermodulation products from the signal booster should not exceed the level
of -30 dBm in 10 kHz measurement bandwidth and noise from the signal booster should not
exceed the level of -43 dBm in 10 kHz measurement bandwidth.
In the event that the intermodulation or noise level measured exceeds the aforementioned values,
the signal booster gain should be decreased accordingly.
In general, the ERP of noise on a spectrum more than 1 MHz outside of the pass band should not
exceed -70 dBm in a 10 kHz measurement bandwidth.
The BSF-3604 61-103001 Repeater has a noise level of -64 dBm in 10 kHz measurement at 1
MHz spectrum outside the passband of the signal booster, worst case intermodulation products at
around -15 dBm in a 10 kHz bandwidth and an in-band noise level at around -37 dBm in a 10 kHz
bandwidth. Therefore, the noise or intermodulation product at the antenna input port should be
calculated based on equation (2).
Equation (2) - Input Noise or intermodulation product to service antenna
Input Noise to service antenna:
-XX dBm + Service Antenna gain – Antenna splitter losses in dB – cable loss in dB
Example: Intermodulation product
Signal booster connected to 10 service antennas with a 100m long ½ inch cable.
Losses of such a cable with the connectors = ~ 12dB
Assuming 10 service antennas: antenna splitter losses = 11 dB
Based on equation (2) Input antenna noise (to the antenna) = -15-12 -11= -38 dBm ERP
The intermodulation product to the antenna should be -15 -12-11= -38dbm ERP
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
Example: In band Noise
Signal booster connected to 10 service antennas with a 100m long ½ inch cable.
Losses of such a cable with the connectors = ~ 12dB
Assuming 10 service antennas: antenna splitter losses = 11 dB
Based on equation (2) Input antenna noise (to the antenna) = -37-12 -11=-60 dBm ERP
The in-band input noise to the antenna should be -37 -12-11= -60dbm ERP
Example: Out of band noise
Signal booster connected to 10 service antennas with a 100m long ½ inch cable.
Losses of such a cable with the connectors = ~ 12dB
Assuming 10 service antennas: antenna splitter losses = 11 dB
Based on equation (2) Input antenna noise (to the antenna) = -64 -12 -11= -87dBm ERP
The Out of-band input noise to the antenna should be -64 -12-11= -87dbm ERP
NOTE: In this example there is no need to add an external band pass filter to attenuate the out of
band noise. If fewer antennas are deployed then additional filtering may be required
Conclusion:
Good engineering practice requires that in general when the out of band noise measured at the
service antenna input is more than -70 dBm per 10 kHz measurement bandwidth, an external band
pass filter should be added to attenuate the out of band noise level.
All Axell Wireless repeaters include high selectivity duplexers and filters to attenuate the out of
band noise. Should additional filtering be required, we have a comprehensive range of interference
filters which can be supplied upon request.
1.4.6 General Safety Warnings Concerning Use of This System
Always observe standard safety precautions during installation, operation and maintenance of this
product.
Throughout this manual, there are "Caution" warnings. "Caution" calls
attention to a procedure or practice, which, if ignored, may result in injury
or damage to the system, system component or even the user. Do not
Caution labels!
Danger:
Electrical Shock
Caution:
Safety to personnel
Caution:
RF Exposure
perform any procedure preceded by a "Caution" until the described
conditions are fully understood and met.
To prevent electrical shock when installing or modifying the system
power wiring, disconnect the wiring at the power source before working
with un insulated wires or terminals.
Before installing or replacing any of the equipment, the entire manual
should be read and understood.
The user needs to supply the appropriate AC power to the repeater.
Incorrect power settings can damage the repeater and may cause injury
to the user.
Please be aware that the equipment may, during certain conditions
become very warm and can cause minor injuries if handled without any
protection, such as gloves.
RF radiation, arising from transmitter outputs connected to AWL’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 un-terminated. 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 compromise 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.
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
When installing, replacing or using this product, observe all safety
precautions during handling and operation. Failure to comply with the
following general safety precautions and with specific precautions
described elsewhere in this manual violates the safety standards of the
design, manufacture, and intended use of this product.
Caution:
Safety to equipment
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Axell Wireless assumes no liability for the customer's failure to comply
with these precautions. This entire manual should be read and
understood before operating or maintaining the repeater.
This Axell Wireless equipment is to be installed only in a restricted access
location where access is restricted to SERVICE PERSONNEL and to
USERS who have been instructed on the restrictions and the required
Warning:
precautions to be taken.
Restricted Access
Location
Observe electrostatic precautionary procedures.
ESD = Electrostatic Discharge Sensitive Device.
Static electricity can be conducted to the semiconductor chip from the
Attention:
Electrostatic
Sensitivity
center pin of the RF input connector, and through the AC connector pins.
When unpacking and otherwise handling the repeater, follow ESD
precautionary procedures including use of grounded wrist straps,
grounded workbench surfaces, and grounded floor mats.
The repeaters described in this manual are equipped with class 1 lasers,
as per definition in EN 60825-1
Caution! - Un-terminated optical receptacles may emit laser radiation.
Exercise caution as follows:
Do not stare into the beam or view with optical instruments.
Optical transmitters in the fiber optic converter can send out high
energy invisible laser radiation. There is a risk for permanent
damage to the eye.
Always use protective cover on all cables and connectors which
are not connected.
Caution:
Never look directly into a fiber cable or a connector.
Class 1 Laser
Consider that a fiber can carry transmission in both directions.
During handling of laser cables or connections, ensure that the
source is switched off.
Regard all open connectors with respect and direct them in a
safe direction and never towards a reflecting surface. Reflected
laser radiation should be regarded as equally hazardous as
direct radiation.
The BSF-3604 is a fiber optic fed UHF repeater. It is part of a system that is fed from an Axell
Wireless Optical Master Unit Mk. 2 (OMU II), supporting WDM technology, lowering the number of
fibers needed per system. The maximum optical loss of up to 10dB is allowed over the fiber
interconnecting the OMU II and the most distant last remote unit that the OMU supports. This
offers great flexibility when providing RF coverage in areas where it is not possible to rely on off-air
transmission.
The fiber optic system is easily remotely monitored and controlled by Axell Wireless’ effective
supervision tool, The Axell Wireless Element Manager (AEM).
The BSF-3604 includes automatic optical gain settings, where the gain is adjusted in the downlink
chain by measuring the level of the pilot carrier sent from the OMU II. The level of the received pilot
carrier is continuously monitored.
Figure 2-1 Illustration of OMU II Connection to BSF Remote
8 carriers: +27dBm
Supports WDM technology
Automatic Optical Gain Setting via OMU II
Remote configuration and management:
Via OMU II intuitive Web GUI
Via AEM – automatically detected via AEM no local setup required
Optionally via Ethernet or GSM, GSM-R PSTN modem
SNMP v1/v2c support
Automatic Level Control (ALC) - provides constant gain in both uplink and downlink paths
according to the defined maximum output level
Very low noise factor - minimizes interference to BTS and increases high speed data
throughput
Backup battery for ‘last gasp’, sending fault error before power failure
Wall or pole mount conforming to IP65 and NEMA 4 standard
Power source: 115VAC, 230 VAC or -48VDC power (depending on your order)
The repeater is equipped with Automatic Level Control (ALC). The ALC feature enables
maintaining the maximum defined output level.
Output Power Level, dBm
ALC
+20
Gain 70dB
-50
Input Signal, dBm
The repeater has a defined maximum output level. If the input signal amplified by the gain set
exceeds the set output limit, an ALC loop is activated. This ALC ensures that the amplifier does not
add distortion to the radio signal. Below are examples of the ALC function for one and two carriers.
Output power, dBm
ALC one carrier
+36,5
+35
+33,8
Gain: 60 dB
-24 -16
ALC two carriers
Input signal, dBm
2.3 Operating Temperature
The BSF-3604 is designed primarily for multi carrier purposes. If the repeater is run at full output
power over a long period of time, the convection cooling may not be enough. The repeater is
equipped with a power management function that steps down the power and, if needed, fully shuts
down the amplifier chains until temperature reaches normal values. In situations where a repeater
will be run in such a manner extra cooling can be provided by putting the repeater in a temperature
controlled environment or via external fans.
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
2.4 Management WEB GUI
BSF-3604 is remotely commissioned and monitored via an OMU II session. Local access to the
unit is not required for commissioning.
Additional configuration and troubleshooting options are available via a direct connection to the
BSF-3604 IP address. A direct session can be opened locally or remotely.
NOTE: Direct remote communication requires connecting the BSF-3604 to an Ethernet network
and configuration of an IP address, or via GSM/GSM-R PSTN modem.
2.5 Interfaces
The BSF-3604 unit provides the following interfaces:
Lockable door catches for protection and security
External TX and RX antenna and GND connections
External connection for power
Internal connection for fiber optics and alarm cables routed via cable gland on the side of
the unit
Internal USB/Ethernet connection for (optional) management and analysis via Web GUI
routed via cable gland on the side of the unit
2.5.1 Securing the Unit
The repeaters are secured with two, quarter-turn door catches which can be locked with a key.
NOTE: The two door catches must be fully closed and locked. Failure to do so will affect the IP65
The repeater’s external interfaces are located on the right-hand side of the unit
Figure 2-3: ports and connections
The following table provides a description of the ports and connections.
Port Description
D/L DAS RF Port Downlink output connection to TX Antenna – N type connector, female
U/L DAS RF Port Uplink input connection from RX Antenna – N type connector, female
The fiber optic cable link from the master site is routed through this gland.
The optional Ethernet connection for management and analysis via Web
Cable Gland
Power Connection AC inlet, 3 pole panel plug (section 4.7.)
Grounding
Connection
GUI may also be routed through this gland.
Connections for routing external alarms and relay wiring cable for internal
connections (section 4.6.) are also routed through this cable gland
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
2.5.3 Internal Interfaces
This section shows the internal interfaces for the repeater. You will need to open the Repeater in
order to do the following:
Connect optic fibers
Connect alarms (if relevant)
Power-on (Power-ON and Battery ON switches)
USB/Ethernet port for local setup
Figure 2-4: Repeater with Door Open
Feature Description
Rechargeable
Backup Battery
Power and battery
Switches
Controller Module
Fiber Optic Converter
module
Alarm and Relay
Connections
Provides the Control Module and modem with enough capacity to send an
alarm in case of input power failure. See section 4.2.7.1.
Separate switches for PSU module and Backup Battery. See section 4.7.3.
Provides RS232 ,USB and Ethernet ports for local and remote control and
reporting/interrogation of alarm data. See section 7.4.1.
The fiber optic transceiver module. See section 7.4.2.
The external alarm interface card. See Section 4.6.
This chapter provides information on the Remote installation site requirements, on the installation
requirements of the antennas, the specifications of the service antennas suitable for operation with
this remote and RF and F/O cable requirements.
3.1 BSF-3604 Installation Requirements
3.1.1 Safety Guidelines
Before installing the Repeater, review the following safety information:
Follow all local safety regulations when installing the Repeater.
Only qualified personnel are authorized to install and maintain the Repeater.
Ground the Repeater with the grounding bolt located on the external lower side of the
Repeater.
Do not use the grounding bolt to connect external devices.
Follow Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) precautions.
Use low loss cables to connect the antennas to the Repeater.
Class 1 Laser
This product is equipped with class 1 lasers,
as per definition in EN 60825-1.
Un-terminated optical receptacles may emit laser radiation. Do not stare into
the beam or view with optical instruments
3.1.2 Criteria for Repeater Installation Location
The following criteria should be considered when selecting the Repeater installation site location:
Application type
General surroundings
Available installation
Install the Repeater in a shielded, ventilated, and easy-to-reach area.
Verify that there is a minimum of a 50 cm (20”) radius of space around the Repeater,
enabling easy access to the repeater for maintenance and on-site inspection.
Distance from antenna site - It is recommended that the installation location be as close
as possible to the antenna site in order to maintain the cable loss to a minimum.
The Repeater is convection cooled so airflow and alternation should be possible.
Follow Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) precautions.
Install the Repeater close to the service area to monitor the output power.
Use low loss cables to connect the antennas to the Repeater.
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
3.1.3 RF Cable Installation Guidelines
Required:
For all coaxial connections to/from the Repeater - high performance, flexible, low loss
50 coaxial communications cable.
All cables shall be weather-resistant type
Cable length - determined by the Repeater installation plan. When calculating the cable
length, take into account excess cable slack so as not to limit the insertion paths.
.
3.1.4 F/O Cable Installation Guidelines
Use the following over the complete link between the Remote and OMU:
Use SC/APC connectors (8 degree angle) for all connections
Cable length - determined by the Remote installation plan. When calculating the cable
length, take into account excess cable slack so as not to limit the insertion paths.
Recommended fiber-optic cable:
Single-mode type fiber 9/125
3.2 Service Antenna Requirements
a. The installer is held accountable for implementing the rules required for
deployment.
b. Good engineering practice must be used to avoid interference.
c. Output power should be reduced to solve any IMD interference issues.
The Service antenna type (i.e. the antenna feeding the mobile/remote units) depends on the
design of the indoors DAS.
3.2.1 Required Antenna Information
The following antenna requirements, specifications and site considerations should be met:
Type of installation – indoor DAS/Radiating Cable
Service area type and size
Antenna type and characteristics
Height
Length and type of coaxial cable required for connecting the antenna to the Repeater and
Axell Wireless can supply a comprehensive range of splitters and Couplers to aid the installation of
the internal DAS system. Typical specifications as below:
Splitter Part Numbers 90-851202 90-851203 90-851204
Frequency Band 300 - 500MHz
Split 2 way 3 way 4 way
Max Insertion Loss 0.3dB 0.5dB 0.4dB
Split Loss 3dB 4.8dB 6dB
Coupler Part Number 90-852306 90-852310 90-852315 90-852320
Inspect the shipped material before unpacking the equipment, document any visual damage and
report according to routines.
A delivery of a repeater from Axell Wireless contains:
Checklist with delivered items
Repeater with attached wall mounting brackets
Mains lead
Keys to repeater
Rubber inset for fiber inlet cable gland
CD containing User’s Manual and RMC
Any other specifically ordered item
4.2 Mount the Repeater
The BSF-3604 Remote is designed to be mounted on a wall. The Repeater is delivered with wall
mounting brackets attached.
Mount the repeater in an accessible location and in a location that fulfils the environmental
requirements. Mounting must be tight to eliminate vibration.
Axell BSF3604-490-510-DP-AC (61-103001) Repeater
Product Description and User’s Manual
4.2.1 Selecting a Location to Ensure Proper Cooling
Mount the repeater so that heat can be dispersed from it.
The repeater wall mounting brackets ensure an optimum airflow between the wall and the
heat-sink on the rear of the repeater.
Do not block this air channel as it will cause the MTBF of the repeater to drop
dramatically, or even in the worst case cause the repeater to fail completely.
If possible, use a wall in the shade to minimize the overall sun loading. If sufficient
shielding cannot be obtained, an additional sun shield should be mounted.
Figure 4-1: Example of a sun shield
4.2.2 Wall-Mounting Preparation
It is recommended that two people lift the repeater sin ce (depending upon the
configuration) the BSF-3604 weighs approximately 30 kg.
Wall compatibility - check the suitability of the wall on which the BSF-3604 is to be to be
fitted.
Plan mount - check the actual fixing centers (see below) and overall dimensions of the
BSF-3604 enclosure. The BSF-3604 is fitted with wall mounting brackets which provide
adequate ventilation between the BSF-3604 and the wall to which it is fixed.
Plan connection cable clearances - the Optical, RF and power connections located on
the side of the BSF-3604 will need at least 300mm clearance to enable the connections
to be made. The minimum bend radius for Optical and RF cables must not be less than
the recommendations made by the cable manufacturer. Plan the cable runs and ensure
adequate space is available.
Allow for door opening - ensure that there is sufficient space at the front of the BSF-
3604 to allow the door to be fully opened and for maintenance engineers to get access to
the unit with test equipment such as a spectrum analyzer. Allow an additional 500mm of
space in front of the BSF-3604 when the door is fully open.
Fix bolts –fix M8 RawlBolts or similar (100mm in length) into the wall at the dimensions
as illustrated in figure 1 below using equipment as specified by the fixing manufacturer. A
recommended method is set out below. Care must be taken to ensure the alignment of
the four fixings. A spirit level or plumb line should be used to ensure horizontal/vertical
alignment.