Bird Technologies 429-83H-01 User Manual

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YOU'RE HEARD, LOUD AND CLEAR.

Installation and Operation Manual for

Compact Tower-Top Amplifier System

Models 429-83H-01-M/T

and 429-83H-01-M-48

Manual Part Number

7-9439

8625 Industrial Parkway, Angola, NY 14006 Tel: 716-549-4700 Fax: 716-549-4772 sales@birdrf.com www.bird-technologies.com

Warranty

This warranty applies for one year from shipping date.

TX RX Systems Inc. warrants its products to be free from defect in material and workmanship at the time of shipment.

Our obligation under warranty is limited to replacement or repair, at our option, of any such products that shall have been defective at the time of manufacture. TX RX Systems Inc. reserves the right to replace with merchandise of equal performance although not identical in every way to that originally sold. TX RX Systems Inc. is not liable for dam- age caused by lightning or other natural disasters. No product will be accepted for repair or replacement without our prior written approval. The purchaser must prepay all shipping charges on returned products. TX RX Systems Inc. shall in no event be liable for consequential damages, installation costs or expense of any nature resulting from the purchase or use of products, whether or not they are used in accordance with instructions. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, either expressed or implied, including any implied warranty or merchantability of fitness. No representative is authorized to assume for TX RX Systems Inc. any other liability or warranty than set forth above in connection with our products or services.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

PRICES AND TERMS:

Prices are FOB seller’s plant in Angola, NY domestic packaging only, and are subject to change without notice. Federal, State and local sales or excise taxes are not included in prices. When Net 30 terms are applicable, payment is due within 30 days of invoice date. All orders are subject to a $100.00 net minimum.

QUOTATIONS:

Only written quotations are valid.

ACCEPTANCE OF ORDERS:

Acceptance of orders is valid only when so acknowledged in writing by the seller.

SHIPPING:

Unless otherwise agreed at the time the order is placed, seller reserves the right to make partial shipments for which payment shall be made in accordance with seller’s stated terms. Shipments are made with transportation charges collect unless otherwise specified by the buyer. Seller’s best judgement will be used in routing, except that buyer’s routing is used where practicable. The seller is not responsible for selection of most economical or timeliest routing.

CLAIMS:

All claims for damage or loss in transit must be made promptly by the buyer against the carrier. All claims for shortages must be made within 30 days after date of shipment of material from the seller’s plant.

SPECIFICATION CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS:

All designs and specifications of seller’s products are subject to change without notice provided the changes or modifications do not affect performance.

RETURN MATERIAL:

Product or material may be returned for credit only after written authorization from the seller, as to which seller shall have sole discretion. In the event of such authorization, credit given shall not exceed 80 percent of the original purchase. In no case will Seller authorize return of material more than 90 days after shipment from Seller’s plant. Credit for returned material is issued by the Seller only to the original purchaser.

ORDER CANCELLATION OR ALTERATION:

Cancellation or alteration of acknowledged orders by the buyer will be accepted only on terms that protect the seller against loss.

NON WARRANTY REPAIRS AND RETURN WORK:

Consult seller’s plant for pricing. Buyer must prepay all transportation charges to seller’s plant. Standard shipping policy set forth above shall apply with respect to return shipment from TX RX Systems Inc. to buyer.

DISCLAIMER

Product part numbering in photographs and drawings is accurate at time of printing. Part number labels on TX RX products supersede part numbers given within this manual. Information is subject to change without notice.

Bird Technologies Group TX RX Systems Inc.

Symbols Commonly Used

WARNING

ESD Electrostatic Discharge

Hot Surface

Electrical Shock Hazard

Important Information

CAUTION or ATTENTION

High Voltage

Heavy Lifting

Bird Technologies Group TX RX Systems Inc.

NOTE

Manual Part Number 7-9439

First Printing: June 2007

Version Number Version Date

1 06/08/07

2 08/17/07

3 10/10/07

4 02/08/08

5 10/24/08

6 09/03/09

Changes to this Manual

We have made every effort to ensure this manual is accurate. If you discover any errors, or if you have suggestions for improving this manual, please send your comments to our Angola, New York facility to the attention of the Technical Publications Department. This manual may be periodically updated. When inquiring about updates to this manual refer to the manual part number and revision number on the revision page following the front cover.

Contact Information

Sales Support at 716-217-3113

Customer Service at 716-217-3144

Technical Publications at 716-549-4700 extension 5019

Bird Technologies Group TX RX Systems Inc.

Table of Contents

General Description ............................................................................................ 1

Unpacking ............................................................................................................ 4

Pre-Installation Checkout ................................................................................... 4

Mechanical Inspection ....................................................................................... 4

Initial Power-up Test ........................................................................................... 5

Bench Testing ..................................................................................................... 6

Installation............................................................................................................ 8

Base to Tower-Top Communications ................................................................. 8

Test Transmission Line ...................................................................................... 9

Installing the System .......................................................................................... 9

Installing the Tower-Top Box ............................................................................. 9

In-building Lightning Arresters ............................................................................ 9

Installing the MCU ............................................................................................12

Interference and IM Considerations.................................................................. 14

Feedline Data ..................................................................................................... 14

Optimizing The System ..................................................................................... 15

Attenuation Settings ......................................................................................... 15

TTA Net Gain.....................................................................................................15

Receiver Multicoupler Distribution ..................................................................... 15

Setting the TTA NET GAIN Attenuation ............................................................ 16

Determining Needed Attenuation .................................................................... 16

Setting Distribution Attenuation ......................................................................... 17

Spectrum Analysis ............................................................................................ 17

Procedure for Spectral Analysis......................................................................19

Operational Tests (Sensitivity and Degradation) ........................................... 19

Front Panel Test Port ........................................................................................ 19

Tower Top Amplifier Inputs................................................................................ 19

Static System Sensitivity ................................................................................... 19

Measuring Static Sensitivity (Load Connected) ................................................. 19

Effective System Sensitivity............................................................................... 21

Measuring Effective Sensitivity (Antenna Connected)....................................... 22

Degradation ....................................................................................................... 23

Routine Operation ............................................................................................. 23

Amplifier Monitoring ........................................................................................... 23

LCD Display.......................................................................................................23

Current Draw ................................................................................................... 23

Test Cable Connection .................................................................................... 23

TTA Temperature ............................................................................................ 23

Software Version ............................................................................................. 23

Front Panel LEDs .............................................................................................. 24

Form-C Contacts ............................................................................................... 24

Alarms ................................................................................................................ 24

The Test Mode ................................................................................................... 24

Set LNA X Active ............................................................................................... 24

Terminate LNA X ............................................................................................... 25

Un-Terminate LNA X ......................................................................................... 25

System Troubleshooting .................................................................................. 25

Performance Degradation ................................................................................ 25

Hardware Problems .......................................................................................... 25

Lightning and Lightning Arresters ................................................................... 26

Vandalism ....................................................................................................... 26

AC Line Fuse (Model 429-83H-01-M) ...............................................................26

Table of Contents Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09

Disconnected Cables ........................................................................................ 26

Periodic Maintenance........................................................................................27

Recommended Spare Parts.............................................................................. 27

Optional Equipment .......................................................................................... 27

Narrowband Filter .............................................................................................. 27

Multicoupler Expansion Deck ............................................................................ 28

Figures and Tables

Figure 1: Front view of the tower-top box ............................................................ 1

Figure 2A: Top view of the multicoupler unit (MCU) ............................................ 2

Figure 2B: Front view of the MCU ....................................................................... 2

Figure 2C: Back view of the MCU ....................................................................... 2

Figure 3: Cable connections for system components .......................................... 4

Figure 4: Initial power-up test ............................................................................... 5

Figure 5: Boot-up sequence ................................................................................. 6

Figure 6: Default display ....................................................................................... 6

Figure 7: Menu selections .................................................................................... 7

Figure 8: Test equipment interconnection for “bench testing” ............................. 8

Figure 9A: System installation guidelines .......................................................... 10

Figure 9B: System installation guideline notes................................................... 11

Figure 10: Tower-top box mechanical details ...................................................... 9

Figure 11: Application of rubber splicing tape ................................................... 12

Figure 12: Lightning Arrester .............................................................................. 12

Figure 13: Optional Data Network Protector....................................................... 13

Figure 14: Alarm terminals ................................................................................ 14

Figure 15: Testing the output spectrum ............................................................. 18

Figure 16: Maximum signal level mask ............................................................. 18

Figure 17: Calculating actual sensitivity ............................................................. 20

Figure 18: Measuring sensitivity through the test port ....................................... 21

Figure 19: Optional filter interconnect diagram .................................................. 28

Figure 20: Optional multicoupler expansion deck .............................................. 28

Table 1: System Specifications ............................................................................. 1

Table 2: Tower Box Specifications......................................................................... 3

Table 3: Multicoupling Unit Specifications............................................................. 3

Table 4: Bench Test Results.................................................................................. 6

Table 5: Optimum Total TTA NET GAIN .............................................................. 16

Table 6: Distribution Attenuation Settings ........................................................... 17

Table 7: Amplifier Status Troubleshooting Guide ................................................ 22

Table 8: Typical Current Readings ...................................................................... 23

Table 9: Loss of Sensitivity Troubleshooting Guide ............................................ 26

Table 10: Disconnected Cables .......................................................................... 27

Table 11: Optional Narrowband Filters................................................................27

Table of Contents Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09

Appendixes

Appendix A: Front Panel Ethernet Connectivity ................................................. 29

Ethernet Connectivity .......................................................................................... 29

Direct Connection .............................................................................................. 29

Required Equipment ........................................................................................ 29

Procedure ........................................................................................................ 29

Networked Connection ...................................................................................... 30

Required Equipment ........................................................................................ 32

Procedure ........................................................................................................ 32

TTA Network Port Security ................................................................................ 34

Data Encryption ............................................................................................... 34

SNMP Support Disabled..................................................................................34

Telnet Security ................................................................................................. 34

Changing the Telnet Port Password................................................................... 35

Appendix B: Changing your Service Computer IP Address............................... 36

Table of Contents Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Figure 1: Front view of the tower-top box (door removed for clarity).

Amplifier / Filter

Assembly

3-21548

Surge

Suppressor

8-21514

Door

Clamp

Surge

Suppressor

8-21183

Surge

Suppressor

8-21549

Tuning Screw

DO NOT ADJUST

Parameter Specification

Bandwidth 792 - 824 MHz

Noise Figure 2.9 dB typ, 3.5 dB max

3rd order IIP > 15.0 dBm

TTA Net Gain Fully settable by

electronic attenuator

Rejection 110 dB Min, 120 db Nom

@776 and 851 MHz

AC Current (model 429-83H-01-M) 340 mA (typ) @120 VAC

DC Current (model 429-83H-01-M-48) 780 mA (typ) @ 48 VDC

Table 1: System specifications.

13 dB TTA Net Gain and

maximum 6 dB transmission line loss assumed

Your TXRX Systems Inc. Tower Top Amplifier System provides the highest degree of reliability available in a Tower Top Amplifier (TTA). The system uses quadrature-coupled amplifiers (also called balanced amplifiers) to create a redundant amplifier configuration in both the tower box and the receiver multicoupling unit (MCU). Each quadamplifier provides two simultaneously used, essentially parallel paths of amplification. Failure of one of these paths of amplification results in an overall gain reduction of only 6 dB.

The system also supplies automatic backup-amplifier switching in the tower top box. Fault detection circuitry continuously monitors the DC power operation of the primary quad-amplifier and automatically switches to the identical secondary quadamplifier if conditions indicate a primary malfunction. If the secondary quad-amplifier malfunctions, operation switches to whichever quad-amplifier is still providing some gain due to operation of one of its amplification paths. Fault detection circuitry also

provides at-a-glance status reporting, with frontpanel LED ’s a nd an LCD displ ay. The sy stem specifications for the tower top amplifier are listed in Table 1.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 1

Figure 2C: Back view of the MCU. Model 429-83H-01-M shown.

Ground

Test

cable

Transmission

cable

To additional 8-way dividers on optional expansion deck.

Terminate when unused.

CAT-5 Cable

here

AC or DC Cord

(model dependent)

Alarm

Terminals

To station receivers

Unused ports do not

require termination

To station receivers

Unused ports do not

require termination

Figure 2B: Front view of the MCU. Model 429-83H-01-M shown.

LAN Port

Status LED’s

Contrast

Adjust

Button

Cancel

Button

Amplifier Select

Buttons

Down

Button

Enter

Button

Test Port

Display

Figure 2A: Top view of the Multicoupling Unit (MCU). Model 429-83H-01-M shown.

8-21515 Power Supply

(model 429-83H-01-M

)

3-21516 DC-DC Converter

(model 429-83H-01-M-48)

3-21476

Front Ethernet Board

(under shroud)

3-21453

Front Panel Board

(under shroud)

3-21450

Distribution Amp

3-21496

Rear Panel

Board

3-18173

4-Way Divider

3-18171

8-Way Divider

3-18171

8-Way Divider

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 2

The quad-amplifier in the tower top box amplifies

Electrical Specifications

Frequency Range 792 to 824 MHz

Net Gain 23 dB

Noise Figure (typ /max) 2.7 / 3.0 dB

Backup Amplifier Switching Solid State RF Switch

Integrated Test Port Isolation

45 dB

Preselector Type

Loss Rejection

7-pole TEM Bandpass

with cross-couplings

<0.8 dB

>60 dB @ 776 and 851 MHz

LNA Type

Gain Noise Figure 3rd Order Input IP

2-stage Quadrature integrated into filter

26 dB

1.2 dB

18 dBm

Impedance 50 Ohms

Antenna Port VSWR 2 : 1

Power Requirements 12 VDC @ 1.25 A

Lightning Protection Impulse Suppressor on all

external connectors

Operating Temp Range -30° C to +60° C

Mechanical Specifications

Enclosure Modified NEMA 4x:

Stainless steel

weather resistant

Connectors N -female

Dimensions (HWD) not including mounting tabs and connectors

18” x 6” x 6”

(457 x 152 x 152 mm)

Net Weight 20 lbs (9.1 kg)

Table 2: Tower box specifications. Values are typical unless

noted otherwise.

Electrical Specifications

Frequency Range 792 to 824 MHz

Multicoupler Net Gain +1 dB typ; 0 dB min

Distribution Amp Type Gain Noise Figure 1 dB compression point 3rd Order Output IP

Quad-Coupled dual stage

23 dB

4 dB 27 dBm 46 dBm

Number of Outputs Split Loss

16 or 32

18 dB

Impedance 50 Ohms

VSWR <2 : 1

Connectors to TTA to BTS Test Port input

N - Female BNC - Female BNC - Female

TTA NET GAIN electronic attenuator

0 to 15.5 dB

in 0.5 dB steps

DISTRIBUTION electronic attenuator

0 to 3 db

in 0.5 dB steps

Alarm / Warning Contacts Two Form-C Contacts

Nominal 2A @ 30 VDC

or 0.5A @125 VAC

I/O Ethernet

Power Requirements

Model 429-83H-01-M Model 429-83H-01-M-48

90 - 240 Vac @ 50/60 Hz

-48VDC

Operating Temp Range 0° C to + 50° C

Mechanical Specifications

Enclosure Standard EIA 19” Rack Mount

Dimensions (HWD) 1 RU x 19” x 14”

(38 x 483 x 356 mm)

Net Weight 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg)

Table 3: Multicoupling Unit specifications. Values are

typical unless noted otherwise.

the weak received signal before the signal enters a long and lossy transmission line, thus preventing the line loss from degrading the signal-to-noise ratio. The quadrature amplifiers have a separate power circuit for each half of the amplifier which provides component redundancy as well as unsurpassed IM performance. Microprocessor controlled fault detection circuitry in the tower top box provides continuous monitoring and switching of each quad amplifier while sending operational data to the base unit front panel for at-a-glance status reporting and form-C contact switching for alarm integration. Included in the tower top box is a pre-

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 3

selector fil ter, amplifi er “A” and ampli fier “B,” switching circuitry, control board and PolyPhaser surge suppressors (see Figure 1). The specifications for the tower box are listed in Table 2.

The ground-mounted MCU shown in Figures 2A through 2C is intended for 19-inch rack mounting. It houses amplifier and signal distribution assemblies, alarm indicators, a power supply or DC-DC

conver ter, and a display panel to provide visual

NOTE

Test Port Trans

Station ReceiversToStation Receivers

120

VAC

CAT-5e Cable

Test Port

Main Transmission

Main

Test

Antenna

MCU

Tower Top Box

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part no.8-21550

Figure 3: Cable connections for system components. Model 429-83H-01-M shown.

feedback on the system’s operating status. The specifications for the MCU are listed in Table 3. Also included in the system is a webpage user interface for controlling and monitoring of amplifier currents, alarms, and attenuators. The webpage user interface is accessed through the front panel LAN connector. Refer to Appendix A for instructions on accessing this feature.

PRE-INSTALLATION CHECKOUT

The following pre-installation tests should be performed after unpacking the system to verify nothing has loosened during transit. Additionally, the system should be made operational on the bench with all components at ground level to verify proper electrical performance. Figure 3 illustrates all of the cable connection points for both the tower top box and the MCU.

UNPACKING

Each major component of the TTA system is individually packaged and shipped via motor freight or UPS. It is important to report any visible damage to the carrier immediately. It is the customer's responsibility to file damage claims with the carrier within a short period of time after delivery (1 to 5 days).

The tower top box should NOT be installed on the tower until all of the pre-installation tests are successfully completed.

Mechanical Inspection

Open the tower top box by loosening all the doorclamp locking screws and rotating the clamps to

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 4

release the door. Make sure that all of the connec-

Tower Top Box

MCU

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part no. 8-21550

CAT-5e

Cable

Front Panel Test Port

Test Ant Main

Figure 4: Initial power-up test.

tors are tight. In addition, it is advisable to check the tightness of the hold-down screws for the various assemblies to insure nothing loosened during shipment. Likewise, check all of the cable connections on the MCU to insure they are all properly mated to their associated plugs.

Initial Power-Up Test

To perform the initial power-up test the system should be temporarily interconnected at ground level using short cables. Figure 4 shows the tem-

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 5

CAUTION: The wide band filter in

the tower top box is factory tuned and must not be field adjusted. Field tuning of this filter is not required. Do not adjust the tuning sl ugs o f the amplifier/filter assembly.

porary equipment hookup for initial power-up testing.

Once the equipment is temporarily interconnected then power is applied to the system by plugging the MCU’s AC cord into a suitable AC outlet (model 429-83H-01-M) or connecting the DC power cable to a suitable -48 VDC supply (model 429-83H-01M-48). The following start-up sequence occurs.

1) At turn-on, the three front panel status LED’s will all glow a steady red while the display panel shows a row of solid boxes on the top display line. This will last for about 10 seconds while the systems micro-controllers boot-up.

2) During the next 5 seconds the base unit (MCU) will establish communications with the tower box. The front panel status LED’s will occasionally flash green. The display panel will present the message “Connecting to Tower Controller” and then will briefly flash the MCU’s current software version. See Figure 5.

3) After the power-up sequencing is complete the

Test Performed Result

Stand Alone

Receiver

Sensitivity

dBm

* Bench Test

Static

Sensitivity dBm

Model Number

(Tower Top Box)

Serial Number

(Tower Top Box)

Table 4: Bench Test Results.

* Default “TTA NET GAIN“ Attenuation (3.0 dB)

* Default “DISTRIBUTION” Attenuation (1.0 dB)

Figure 6: Default display.

Figure 5: MCU software version is displayed briefly

during the boot-up sequence.

screen should show the default display as shown in Figure 6. The status LED for each active amplifier will glow a steady green and the status LED for the inactive (stand-by) LNA will be dark.

The tower top amplifier system is software directed so control of the system is accomplished via user interface with the front panel using the display screen and the four menu selection buttons. A flow chart showing all of the possible user menu selections is shown in Figure 7.

Bench Testing

The purpose of the bench test is to verify that all of the system components are working correctly and to measure the systems sensitivity before climbing the tower to mount the tower top box. One station receiver is selected and the test is performed at this frequency. Short temporary cables are used to interconnect all components. A SINAD meter is used for the test (or a bit e r r o r rate m et e r if required) along with a signal generator.

1) The stand-alone receiver sensitivity is measured and recorded first. Record the value in Table 4.

2) Connect the equipment as shown in Figure 8. Be sure that the signal generator is setup for a 3 KHz deviation with a 1000 Hz tone (analog) or proper pattern for BER testing.

3) Measure and record the systems bench test static sensitivity in table 4. The sensitivity value will vary depending on the amount of internal programmable attenuation selected via software interface. The bench test measurement should be taken with the default values selected for “TTA NET GAIN” attenuation (3.0 dB) and “DISTRIBUTION” attenuation (1.0 dB). These are the factory default settings that are programmed into your system when you first turn it on.

4) Select the other tower top amplifier and check that the bench test static sensitivity value remains nearly the same. This will insure that both amplifiers in the tower top box are functioning properly. To select an alternate towertop amplifier press the associated amplifier select button on the front panel, the status LED will begin to flash, then press the ENTER button to finalize the selection.

5) If the tower box door is opened during the installation it is important to re-tighten the doorclamp locking screws uniformly so that the door gasket seal is maintained. Tighten each clamp about half-way, then start back at the first clamp and fully tighten each one in the same order. Tighten with a hand tool only. Insure that the moisture vent holes at the bottom of the box are unobstructed.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 6

TTA NET GAIN

DISTRIBUTION

MAIN LINE LOSS

TEST LINE LOSS

STATIC W/LOAD

REFERENCE W/ANT

AS AN EASY REFERENCE

RECORD VALUES HERE

NOTE: Use arrow to adjust

429-83H-01-M

TX RX SYSTEMS INC

DEFAULT DISPLAY

PRESS CANCEL KEY

LNA X ACTIVE

A CURRENT XXXmA

B CURRENT XXXmA

BASE CURRENT

XXXX mA

TEST CABLE

CONNECTED

NOT CONNECTED

TTA TEMPERATURE

+/- XX DEGREES C

BASE V X.XX

TOWER V X.XX

INITIALIZE

ENTER TO RESTART

TEST

ENTER TO SELECT

ATTENUATORS

ENTER TO SELECT

FEEDLINE DATA

ENTER TO SELECT

SENSITIVITY

ENTER TO SELECT

TTA NET GAIN

ENTER TO ADJUST

MAIN LINE LOSS

ENTER TO ADJUST

STATIC W/LOAD

ENTER TO ADJUST

Manual Mode

TTA NET GAIN

X.X dB

Automatic Mode

TTA NET GAIN

AUTO MODE

MAIN LINE LOSS

X.X dB

STATIC W/LOAD

-XX.X dB

DISTRIBUTION

ENTER TO ADJUST

TEST LINE LOSS

ENTER TO ADJUST

REFERENCE W/ANT

ENTER TO ADJUST

DISTRIBUTION

X.X dB

TEST LINE LOSS

XX.X dB

REFERENCE W/ANT

-XX.X dB

SET LNA A ACTIVE

ENTER TO CONFIRM

SET LNA B ACTIVE

ENTER TO CONFIRM

TERMINATE LNA A

ENTER TO CONFIRM

TERMINATE LNA B

ENTER TO CONFIRM

UNTERM LNA A

ENTER TO CONFIRM

UNTERM LNA B

ENTER TO CONFIRM

Return to

Default Display

NOTE:

After pressing the ENTER Button the MCU will re-boot, then return to the

Default Display.

PRESS ENTER KEY

PRESS UP-ARROW KEY

PRESS DOWN-ARROW KEY

PRESS EITHER ARROW KEY

YELLOW INDICATES RECORDABLE VALUE

KEY

429-83H-01-M Menu System

E E

Figure 7: 429-83H-01-M menu selections.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 7

Minimum length cables Best possible sensitivity Default "TTA NET GAIN" Attenuation (3.0 dB) Default Distribution Attenuation (1.0 dB)

Signal Generator

MCU

Front Panel Test Port

Tower Top Box

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part no. 8-21550

12 dB SINAD Receiver

CAT-5e

Cable

Diagnostic Cable

Test Ant Main

Figure 8: Test equipment interconnection for “bench testing” of system components.

Connection to an appropriate power source is assumed.

The following sub-sections of the manual discuss general considerations for installing the system. All work should be performed by qualified personal. TXRX Systems provides the base MCU, tower top amplifier box, and the mainline lightning arrester. All additional parts required for installation must be supplied by the customer. Before mounting the tower top box we recommend that you record the model number and serial number of the unit for future reference (table 4 is a convenient place to record them). The numbers are located on a tag attache d to the inside of t h e door and maybe required in the future if you call the factory for customer support.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 8

INSTALLATION

Base to Tower-Top Communications

A special lightning arrester (TXRX part # 8-21550) is provided with this TTA for installation at the main transmission line entry bulkhead/grounding plate. This unit not only passes the DC current required to operate the TTA, but also generates the low frequency subcarrier used for the standard AISG/EIA485 data communications between the base unit and the tower top box. A standard CAT-5e data cable (double shielded) must be installed between the base unit (MCU) and the lightning arrester for carriage of the EIA-485 data. The TTA will operate normally with all backup functionality intact if this data cable is not installed, is damaged or removed, but status and alarms will not be available at the base.

Test Transmission Line

NOTE

Mounting Tabs

.312 Dia Thru Mount Holes 4 Places

6.69"

12.00"

Figure 10: Tower-top box mechanical details.

Prope r installati on of this system requires t he installation of a test transmission line in addition to the main transmission line for system testing and diagnostics. The system will operate normally if the test transmission line is not installed or becomes damaged, except the base status LED will continuously display an alarm (red) condition. In addition, one of th e display sub-menu’s will show a test cable not connected message.

Installing the System

Installation of the TTA system should follow the installation standards listed in Figure 9A and 9B on pages 10 and 11. Lightning arresters are incorporated throughout the system; refer to items 6, 7, and 11 listed in figure 9. In addition, surge suppression is also provided for all cable connections within the tower top box. Proper grounding techniques MUST BE obser ved for these devices to perform properly. See the following sections for specific installation instructions.

Installing the Tower Top Box

Figure 10 shows some of the mechanical features

of t h e t ower to p b ox. Four mounting tabs are welded to the back of the box to allow for fastening to the tower. Because of the varied tower types,

the customer must fabricate the interface brackets between the tower frame and the box. To install the

tower top box perform the following steps.

1) Mount a receiving antenna on the tower.

2) Run the main transmission cable as well as the test transmission cable up the tower.

3) Mount the tower top box on the tower and connect the antenna feedline, main transmission line and test line to the box.

4) Connect the tower top box ground lug to a good solid ground on the tower.

To insure stability, it is important to fasten the box to the tower using all moun t i ng t a bs. T h e b ox must be moun ted with the conne c tors and

moisture openings facing downward to prevent water entry. After connecting the main transmission line, test line, and the antenna feedline, we recommend that the connections be tightly wrapped with rubber splicing tape (see Figure 11). This will help prevent water entry into the cables. Start the wraps on the cable several inches away from the connector and wrap towards the connector, this will prevent water from seeping in between the wraps of tape. Cover the conne ctors co mpletely with tape.

5) If the tower box door is opened during the

installation it is important to re-tighten the doorclamp locking screws uniformly so that the door gasket seal is maintained. Tighten each clamp about half-way, then start back at the first clamp and fully tighten each one in the same order. Tighten with a hand tool only. Insure that the moisture vent holes at the bottom of the box are unobstructed.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 9

In-building Lightning Arresters

Two lightning surge suppressors must be installed in the equipment room one each for the main and test transmission lines, refer to Figure 9. The following steps are required for proper installation.

1) For the test line install a lightning arrester.

PolyPhaser part # DC50LNZ15MA (N-M/N-F connectors) or DC50LNZ15 (N-F/N-F connectors). The chassis of the lightning arrester should be connected to the master ground bus with a pigtail.

2) For the main transmission line install a lightning

arrester TXRX part # 8-21550. This device is

Lightning Arresters 7 and 11 must be grounded to the Master Ground Buss.

MCU ground stud must be connected to the Equipment Rack Master Ground Bar.

Building entry-point ground plate and Equipment Rack Master Ground Bar must be grounded to Master Ground Buss.

GROUNDING REQUIREMENTSGROUNDING REQUIREMENTS

WARNING

Failure to ground the TTA System properly can result

in equipment failure caused by electrical surges.

Optional

BNC Test Port

Base

Station

Building Entry-Point Ground Plate

Copper Ground

Strap

From

Repeaters

2 2

Transmit

Combiner

MCU

Master Ground Buss

Internal Perimeter Ground (Halo)

Tower Top

Amplifier

Test MainAnt

RX TX

Entry-Point Ground Buss

To Electrical Service Ground

Equipment Rack Master Ground Bar

NOTE

Figure 9A: System installation guidelines.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 10

Main transmission and test line grounded at top, base, shelter entrance and every 75 feet.

All external cable connections weatherproofed.

Hoisting grips used every 200 feet per mainline.

1/2" LDF 10 foot jumper cable from each antenna to its mainline and tower top amplifier.

1/2" Superflex for all internal RF runs.

Lightning Arrester on TX lines.

Lightning Arrester on test port line. Polyphaser part number DC50LNZ15MA (N-M / N-F ). Polyphaser part number DC50LNZ15 (N-F / N-F ).

3/8" LDF test port mainline.

We recommend that you follow a good industry standard as a guideline for communications site installations such as Motorola's R56 Standard. This standard depicts grounding methods which will help to ensure expected system performance, reliability and longevity.

1/4" Superflex, N male to N male.

Lightning Arrester with RS485 communication interface. TX RX part number 8-21550.

Data Cable - CAT-5e patch cord (Double Shielded). L-Com part number TRD855DSZ-XX or equivalent.

Additional Protection (Optional):

If additional protection of the data communication line is desired, a data network protector can be installed. For this, use Polyphaser Model NX3-05.

This data network protector must be located as close as possible to the MCU rear data port and grounded to the Equipment Rack Master Ground Bar. Refer to Figure 13.

10.

11.

12.

13.

INSTALLATION STANDARDS

SYSTEM ENGINEER RESPONSIBLE FOR

All mounting hardware

Wall feed-through hardware

TX RX Systems Inc. 8625 Industrial Parkway, Angola, NY 14006 716- 549-4700 bird -technol ogies.com sales@birdrf.com

Figure 9B: System installation guideline notes.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 11

Figure 11: Application of rubber splicing tape. Note: Additional waterproofing protection can be realized by

covering the rubber tape with either “Scotch Kote” or Vinyl Plastic Electrical Tape (“Scotch” brand 33+).

Test Line

Antenna

Feedline

Main

Transmission

Line

Ground Lug

Moisture

Vent

Figure 12: Lightning arrester TXRX part # 8-21550. This device must be connected to the master ground buss with a pigtail.

RF In

from

Tower Top

RF Out

to MCU

CAT-5e

Cable

Here

shipped from the factory along with the tower top box. Refer to Figure 12. The chas-

sis of the lightning arrester should be connected to the master ground bus with a pigtail.

Installing the MCU

The MCU is designed for indoor mounting in a common 19-inch relay rack or cabinet. The following steps are required for proper installation.

1) Install the MCU into the rack or cabinet with four mounting screws from the hardware kit (part # 3-16509) which is included with your shipment. Make sure you use a nylon washer under the head of the screws in order to protect the front panel. Torque the mounting screws to no more than 15 in/lbs. Over tightening the mounting screws may damage the front panel.

2) Connect the MCU ground lug to the Equipment Rack Master Ground Bar with a pigtail.

3) Connect the main and test transmission cables to the appropriate connectors at the back of the unit.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 12

4) Connect a double-shielded CAT-5e cable from

Master Ground Buss

Equipment Rack

Master Ground Bar

Internal Perimeter Ground (Halo)

MCU Rear Panel

ground stud

Ground Wire

Keep as short

as possible

RJ45

Short CAT 5e patch cable (double shielded)

3-0

oca

e D

etw

rotec

tor

los

to M

Dat

t as

pos

ibl

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part number 8-21550

RS 485 Data Line

CAT 5e patch cable

(double shielded)

Figure 13: For optional additional protection install the data network protector.

the RJ45 plug on the rear panel of the MCU to the RJ45 connector on the lightning arrester at the building entry ground plate. We recommend using a pre-built cable from L-Com (part # TRD855DSZ-XX). The -XX suffix represents the cables length in feet. An equivalent cable from another manufacturer is acceptable.

5) If optional additional protection of the data communications line is desired a Data Network Protector can be installed. Use PolyPhaser part # NX3-05. The data network protector must be grounded to the equipment rack master ground bar. Keep this ground wire as short as possible. See Figure 13.

6) Connect the optional data network protector to the lightning arrester with the cable from step 4. Then connect the rear panel MCU data port to the data network protector with a short length of double-shielded CAT-5e cable. We recommend using a pre-built cable from L-Com (part #

TRD855DSZ-XX). An equivalent cable from another manufacturer is acceptable.

7) If you have a supervisory alarm system, connect its wiring harness to the terminal screws at the back of the MCU. Refer to Figure 14.

8) Connect the station receivers and optional 16port receiver multicoupler expansion deck to the output ports on the back of the MCU with highquality 50-ohm coaxial cable such as 1/4-inch superflexible transmission line. Some flexibility in the jumper cables will prevent strain and possible damage to the connections. We also recommend the use of quality BNC connectors. Unused receiver outputs need not be terminated. However, unused expansion ports (the 2 left-most ports) should be terminated with 50 ohms until connected to an expansion panel (refer to Figure 2C).

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 13

Interference and IM Considerations

Figure 14: Alarm terminals. Normally open or normally closed screw terminals are available.

Model 429-83H-01-M-48 shown.

DC Power Cord used in model 429-83H-01-M-48

(Red is -48 Volts and Black is common)

AC Cord used in model 429-83H-01-M

Test Cable

connects here

Main Cable

connects here

Ground

(double-shielded)

CAT-5e Cable

connects here

Alarm Terminals

T h e g ro u n d l ug must be connected to t h e eq u i p ment rack master ground bar with a pigtail.

Although TX RX Systems, Inc. TTA systems are design ed for maxi mum interference im munity, there are many factors that can lead to har mful interference when using a tower-mounted amplifier. It is highly recommended that the receiving and transmitting antennas be vertically separated to maximize antenna isolation.

FEEDLINE DATA

As part of the installation process you will need to determine the cable losses for your main and test transmission lines. These loss values can be determined by sweepin g the cable s or they can b e looked up from the cable manufactures specifications. For your system these values will be fixed once the cable type is chosen and cut to length.

Although most 700/800 MHz transmitters are connected to their antenna through a combiner, it is quite likely that t h e combiner d o e s not have enough transmitter noise filtering to prevent desensitization of the receivers unless there is significant antenna space isolation. Large values of antenna isolation are most easily realized when the antennas are separated vertically. This antenna isolation also helps reduce the possibility of intermodulation interference in the receiving system.

One other important factor that can strongly contribute to interference problems is excessive gain, ahead of the receiver. Excessive gain can cause overdrive to the station receivers when strong signals are present, making them more prone to intermodulation or carrier desensitization problems. Rec e ive r p r eam p li f ier s s hou l d n ot b e u s ed because the receiver multicoupler, which is incorporated in the MCU, serves this purpose.

Once you have determined the main and test line cable loss for your system this information can be recorded in system memory for future reference in the Feedline Data menu selection. To save the cable loss values in memory perform the following steps.

1) From the default display press the DOWN ARROW button on the front panel to scroll through the menu choices until you reach the FEEDLINE DATA menu.

2) With the FEEDLINE DATA menu displayed press the ENTER button to step down to the MAIN LINE LOSS sub-menu.

3) Use the UP and DOWN ARROW buttons to set the main line loss to the desired value. This storage register works in a forward loop fashion, starting at 0.0 and increasing to 9.9. A button press after 9.9 returns the setting back to 0.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 14

4) After setting the main line loss value press the ENTER button to return back to the FEEDLINE DATA menu. This will save your setting choice.

5) With the FEEDLINE DATA menu displayed press the ENTER button to step down to the MAIN LINE LOSS sub-menu. Press the UP ARROW button to move to the TEST LINE LOSS sub-menu.

6) Use the UP and DOWN ARROW buttons to set the test line loss to the desired value. This storage register works in a forward loop fashion, starting at 0.0 and increasing to 9.9. A button press after 9.9 returns the setting back to 0.

7) After setting the test line loss value press the ENTER button to return back to the FEEDLINE DATA menu. This will save your setting choice. Then pressing the CANCEL button while at the FEEDLINE DATA menu will return you to the default display.

OPTIMIZING THE SYSTEM

In the TTA system the first stage of amplification is in the tower top box which is used to overcome the main line loss, develop the noise figure, and the TTA Net Gain. The second amplifier, located on the multicoupler deck (base unit), is used to overcome the losses associated with distribution.

sensitivity and degradation may appear out of tolerance.

ATTENUATION SETTINGS

The system contains programmable attenuators for optimizing both the TTA Net Gain and receiver multicoupler distribution. Both of these attenuators must be adjusted as part of the system installation. The attenuation adjustments allow the system to maintain maximum protection of the receivers, while obtaining the best sensitivity possible.

TTA Net Gain

TTA Net Gain is defined as the net gain between the input of the tower top LNA and the input of the base LNA. The amount of programmable attenuation that your system requires in order to reach an ideal amount of TTA Net Gain will vary depending on the length of your main transmission line.

The va lue o f the TTA Net Gain programmable attenuator can be adjusted either manually by the customer or automatically by the microprocessor in the MCU. The choice of manual or automatic is deter mined by a menu choice in the Webpage User Interface which is accessible via the MCU’s LAN connector using a separate PC. For a complete description of the Webpage User Interface software refer to the TXRX Systems Inc. technical manual 7-9440.

When the tower top amplifier system is installed there are detailed adjustments and test procedures which must be followed in order to insure optimum performance of the system. The process includes:

Attenuation Settings Spectrum Analysis Operational Tests Sensitivity with Load Connected Sensitivity with Antenna Connected

Operational testing must be performed in a methodical manner to provide the correct performance evaluation and ensure that the information obtained is correct. For each procedure it is important that the data be recorded accurately and is available anytime assistance is required or when performance is in question. Before a receive system problem is suspected, the appropriate operational tests must be performed. Before operational tests for sensitivity can be verified, the programmable attenuation settings and spectrum analysis must be performed. If these are not correct, the

When automatic has been selected the message “AUTO MODE” will be shown on the MCU front panel d ispl ay w hen you scroll down the me nu choices to the TTA Net Gain value, refer to the menu selections chart shown in figure 7. Manual changes to the attenuator value using the front panel ARROW buttons are not allowed when in the automatic mode.

Receiver Multicoupler Distribution

Receiver Multicoupler Distribution is defined as the gain between the input of the base LNA and the input of the station receiver. The receiver multicoupler distribution adjustment allows for proper compensation of the MCU to receiver cable/distribution losses and should ideally be se t to unity. The amount of attenuation that your system will require in order to reach an ideal amount of receiver multicoupler distribution will vary depending on the length of the cables from the multicoupler outputs at the rear of the MCU to your receivers. Distribution attenuation is always adjusted manually using the front panel ARROW buttons. There is no auto-

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 15

matic mode for dist ribution a ttenuation adjust-

Type of Signal The optimum total

amount of TTA NET GAIN

FM Voice 13 dB

Digital 10 dB

Table 5: Optimum total TTA NET GAIN.

ments.

The factory default setting for TTA Net Gain is 3.0 dB of attenuation and the factory default setting for receiver multicoupler Distribution is 1.0 dB of attenuation. These are the initial settings that are programmed into your system when you first turn it on. You will need to adjust these values to optimize your system. This is done through software interface via the menu select keys. Your settings will be stored in system memory until you change them again even if the equipment is powered down.

Setting the TTA NET GAIN Attenuation

The total amount of TTA Net Gain attenuation for your system is composed of two parts, the main line cable loss (which is fixed, based on cable type and length) as well as the TTA Net Gain attenuation setting (which is variable, depending on software selection). This is illustrated in the formula below.

Main Line Loss + Software Setting = Total

It has been found in practice that different levels of total TTA Net Gain attenuation are required for different types of modulated signals to obtain the best performance. Table 5 lists the optimum total TTA Net Gain attenuation value for various signal types.

necessary when the main transmission line loss is low; that is, when line loss does not reduce the TTA gain enough to obtain the desired total TTA Net Gain attenuation level.

DETERMINING NEEDED ATTENUATION

To calculate how much attenuation is needed to optimize the TTA Net Gain of your system use the following formula;

TTA Net Gain(dB) = Gain TTA(dB) - Line loss(dB)

For example, if the TTA gain is 24 dB and the main transmission line loss is 3 dB:

TTA Net Gain = 24 dB - 3 dB = 21 dB

If your system uses FM Voice, you would like a TTA Net Gain as close to 13 dB as possible. The amount of TTA Net Gain attenuation required is calculated with the following formula;

Attenuation(dB) = Actual(dB) - Desired(dB)

Attenuation = 21 - 13 = 8 dB

So in this example the TTA Net Gain attenuation setting should be 8 dB. If the sign of the calculated attenuation had been negative it would indicate that we could actually use more gain! No attenuation would be required.

It should be kept in mind that these values are not extremely critical. Systems that depart from these values can still give reasonably good performance, but may degrade somewhat when extremely strong and very weak signals are present, as compared with an optimized system.

The TTA Net Gain attenuation is programmable and needs to be adjusted to optimum levels for the type of signals being processed. The default factory setting is 3 dB. Further reduction may only be

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 16

The programmable attenuation for optimizing your TTA Net Gain attenuation is adjustable from 0 to

15.5 dB in 0.5 dB increments. To adjust the value perform the following steps.

1) Press the DOWN ARROW button on the front panel to scroll through the menu choices until you reach the ATTENUATORS menu.

2) With the ATTENUATORS menu displayed press the ENTER button to step down to the TTA Net Gain sub-menu.

3) Press the ENTER button again to advance to the TTA Net Gain adjustment screen. The current TTA Net Gain setting will now be displayed. Use the UP and DOWN ARROW buttons to set the TTA Net Gain to the desired value. The attenuation setting works in a forward loop fashion, starting at 0 and increasing to 15.5, a button press after 15.5 returns the setting back to

4) After setting the TTA Net Gain press the

Set DISTRIBUTION

attenuation to

for cable / distribu-

tion losses of

3 dB 1 dB

2 dB 2 dB

1 dB * 3 dB

0 dB more than 3 dB

* factory default setting

Table 6: Distribution attenuation settings.

ENTER button to return back to the ATTENUATORS menu. This will save your setting choice. Then pressing the CANCEL button while at the ATTENUATORS menu will return you to the default display.

Setting Distribution Attenuation

The MCU to receiver cable loss can be determined from the cable manufacturers specifications. For your system these values will be fixed once the cable type is chosen and cut to length. Typically 2 to 3 dB o f Distribu t ion a t t e nuation is us u a l l y required to achieve unity gain. Use the attenuation values shown in Table 6 to set the Distribution attenuation to the correct value.

setting works in a forward loop fashion, starting at 0.0 and increasing to 15.5, a button press after 15.5 returns the setting back to 0.

5) After setting the distribution value press the ENTER button to return back to the ATTENUATORS menu. This will save your setting choice. Then pressing the CANCEL button while at the ATTENUATORS menu will return you to the default display.

SPECTRUM ANALYSIS

Obtaining good sensitivity requires an understanding of the levels applied to the receiver. A receiver, like any electronic device, has a dynamic range of operation. As long as this dynamic range is maintained, the specifications of the receiver are maintained. When the levels applied to the receiver exceed this range, the sensitivity, intermodulation rejection, as well as the adjacent channel selectivity will deteriorate. To properly perform a Spectrum Analysis, a spectrum analyzer must be connected to the output of the multicoupler as if it were a receiver, essentially monitoring what the receiver sees.

The DISTRIBUTION attenuation is adjustable from

0.0 to 15.5 dB in 0.5 dB increments. To adjust the multicouple r attenuation perform the following steps.

1) Press the DOWN ARROW button on the front panel to scroll through the menu choices until you reach the ATTENUATORS menu.

2) With the ATTENUATORS menu displayed press the ENTER button to step down to the TTA Net Gain sub-menu.

3) Press the UP ARROW button to move to the Distribution sub-menu.

4) Press the ENTER button again to advance to the Distribution adjustment screen. The current distribution value will now be displayed. Use the UP and DOWN ARROW buttons to set the distribution to the desired value. The attenuation

Figure 15 shows the equipment interconnection for this measurement while Figure 16 is a graph which indicates the maximum desired measured-signal levels both inside and outside of the transmit and receive bands. TTA filter selectivity and antenna space isolation are the dominant factors that determin e t he signal level s o bserved. E x cessively strong receive signals indicate the need for additional attenuation in the MCU. The re are three areas of the spectrum that must be evaluated:

1) Receive Band - The spectrum where the receive frequencies reside must not have carriers above -35 dBm. These are the carriers that are intended to enter the receiver. If subscribers or control stations are near the infrastructure the levels can be very high. If the levels are above -35 dBm, the gain of the system must be reduced or the source of the high level carrier must be reduced.

2) Transmit Band - The highest carrier that the receive system will consistently see is its own transmitter. The preselector of the receive system must adequately remove these carriers to prevent over-drive. The goal of the preselector is to reduce all transmit carriers below -55 dBm. If the level of a transmitter is above -55 dBm the

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 17

-30

-35

-40

-45

-50

-55

-60

-65

-70

-75

-80

dBm

Receive Band

Less than -35 dBm

Transmit Band

Less than -55 dBm

Remaining Spectrum

Less than -75 dBm

Transmit BandReceive Band

Frequency (MHz)

Maximum Signal Level Mask

Figure 16: Maximum permissible signal levels at receiver output of TTA MCU.

MCU

Front Panel Test Port

Tower Top Box

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part no. 8-21550

CAT-5e

Cable

Test Ant

Antenna

Main

Spectrum Analyzer

Bird SignalHawk

Figure 15: Testing the output spectrum of the TTA system.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 18

preselector is not adequately performing its job and must be changed.

noise. The difference between the two is the system degradation.

3) All Other Frequencies - The receiver is designed to monitor very low signals and there must be a minimum amount of undesired energy exposure. The preselector has very sharp selectivity and must reduce all carriers outside the bandwidth below -75 dBm except as indicated above.

Procedure for Spectral Analysis

Spectral analysis will verify the signals arriving at the receiver as well as validate the TTA Net Gain adjustment. To perform a spectral analysis of the site follow the steps listed below.

1) Make sure programmable attenuators are properly adjusted.

2) Connect the spectrum analyzer to one of the output ports of the multicoupler.

3) Setup the spectrum analyzer as follows;

Span = 700 to 800 MHz Resolution = 50 KHz RF Attenuation = 0 dBm Reference Level = -20 dBm Peak (Max) Hold = ON

4) Monitor the spectrum for 5 minutes (during peak hours).

OPERATIONAL TESTS

(SENSITIVITY AND DEGRADATION)

Before sensitivity and degradation can be verified, attenuation adjustments and spectrum analysis must be performed. If these are not correct, the sensitivity and degradation may appear out of tolerance.

The sensitivity tests will measure the full range of performance from the maximum achievable to realworld performance in the presence of RF noise. These tests are absolutely necessary, not only to insure proper performance, but also to serve as a bench mark for future evaluations and troubleshooting.

Front Panel Test Port

The front panel BNC test port is connected to the tower box through the test line allowing signals generated at ground level to be injected into an isolated 45 dB por t at the input of each tower top amplifier circuit board. The test port feature provides a convenient means of performing static sensitivity tests of the system.

Tower Top Amplifier Inputs

Under normal operating conditions RF signals pass from the antenna to the inputs of the tower top amplifier. In addition, the input of each tower top amplifier can also be switched to an internal 50 Ohm load for testing purposes. The front panel test port remains connected (through its isolated 45 dB input) to the tower top amplifiers regardless of whether the amplifiers input is connected to the antenna or the internal load. This allows system sensitivity testing to be done with and without site noise being coupled into the system through the antenna.

Static System Sensitivity

Static sensitivity is the maximum sensitivity achievable because any possible interfering signals are blocked from entering the LNA while static sensitivity is measured. To determine the Static system sensitivity the signal level into the first amplifier must be known. The easiest way to achieve this is to inject a test signal into the Test Port (located on the front panel of the base unit) and measure the BER or SINAD of the test receiver. The static system sensitivity can only be measured while the active tower-top LNA is connected to the internal load. Once you have made the measurement the actual static system sensitivity can be calculated. Figure 17 shows the formula for calculating the actual static system sensitivity as well as a worked through example.

Measuring Static Sensitivity (Load Connected)

To test the static system sensitivity through the test port with the internal load connected to the amplifier perform the following steps;

Two types of sensitivity measurements will need to be made, Static and Effective. Static sensitivity is measured without the presence of site noise while the Effective sensitivity measurement includes site

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 19

Caution: During this test on-air sig-

NOTE

Actual Sensitivity is calculated using the following formula:

Actual Sensitivity (dBm) = IS (dBm) + TC (dB) + TP (dB)

Where:

is the Injected Signal Level is the Test Cable Loss is the Test Port Loss

IS TC TP

LEV

Example:

If the Test Cable for the system is 200 ft. long with a loss of 3.6 dB per 100 ft., then the Test Cable Loss will be 7.2 dB. The Test Port Loss is Fixed at 45 dB. If the Injected Signal acquires BER or SINAD at a level of -71.8 dBm, then the Actual Sensitivity would be -124 dBm.

LEV LO LO

Figure 17: Calculating actual sensitivity (both static and effective).

nals will NOT pass through to the station receivers.

1) The signal generator and SINAD meter (or bit error rate meter if appropriate) should be connected to the system as shown in Figure 18.

2) Be sure the signal generator is setup for a 3 KHz deviation with a 1000 Hz tone (analog) or proper pattern for BER testing.

5) Adjust the signal strength from the signal generator until the 12 dB SINAD or required BER point is acquired. This determines the systems static sensitivity without the presence of site noise. This value should be recorded in the MCU’s memory for future use.

It is very important that sensitivity always be measured to a recognized benchmark such as bit rate error (BER) or SINAD. Do not use your ear or other subjective techniques.

3) From the default display, use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the TEST menu choice then press the ENTER button to bring up the test sub menu’s.

4) Use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the TERMINATE LNA “A (or) B” menu choice (depending on which amplifier is currently active) and press the ENTER button to switch the amplifiers input from the antenna to the load. The “TEST TTA OFFLINE” message will appear. The RF signal path through the tower top box will be interrupted and on-air signals will not be passed to the station receivers.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 20

6) Press the front panel CANCEL button. This will switch the amplifier input back to the antenna and will return you to the default display.

If left unattended, after about 9 minutes the input of the active amplifier will automatically switch back to the antenna and on-air signals will again pass through to the station receivers.

7) From the default display, use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the SENSITIVITY menu choice then press the ENTER button.

NOTE

Signal Generator

MCU

Front Panel Test Port

Tower Top Box

Lightning Arrester

TX RX part no. 8-21550

12 dB SINAD Receiver

CAT-5e

Cable

Diagnostic

Cable

Test Ant

Antenna

Main

Figure 18: Using the test port to measure sensitivity of the TTA system.

8) Use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the STATIC W/LOAD menu choice and press the ENTER button.

9) Use the ARROW buttons to dial in the static sensitivity value (from the signal generator) and press the ENTER button to save the information in memory. By storing the sensitivity value at the time of installation it can be compared with future tests and used as an indication of system degradation or failure. In general, the sensitivity measured with the antenna will be less than that measured with the load unless site noise is at a minimum.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 21

The sensitivity value measured in step 5 is less (45 dB plus Test Line loss) than the actual sensitivity value.

Effective System Sensitivity

The Effective System Sensitivity is the sensitivity as seen by the subscriber. This represents the Talk-in coverage component of the infrastructure. To determine the Effective System Sensitivity the signal level into the first amplifier must be known. The easiest way to achieve this is to inject a test signal into the Test Port (located on the front panel of the base unit) and measure the BER or SINAD of the test receiver. The effective system sensitivity can only be measured while the active tower-top LNA is connected to the antenna. Once you have made the measurement the actual effective system sensitivity can be calculated. Figure 17 shows the formula for calculating the actual effective system sensitivity as well as a worked through example.

Measuring Effective Sensitivity

NOTE

Status LED Possible Amplifier Status Form-C Contact Status

Tower top Amplifier A

Green Selected; normal current Normal

Off Not selected; normal current Normal

Red Failure: Very abnormal current; can only be selected if amplifier B is

also in Alarm

Alarm contacts change state

Red Failure: Extremely abnormal current; cannot be selected Alarm contacts change state

Tower top Amplifier B

Green Selected: normal current Normal

Off Not selected; normal current Normal

Red Failure: Very abnormal current; can only be selected if amplifier A is

also in Alarm

Alarm contacts change state

Red Failure: Extremely abnormal current; cannot be selected Alarm contacts change state

Base (Distribution) Amplifier

Green Normal current Normal

Red Failure: Very abnormal current Alarm contacts change state

Table 7: Amplifier status troubleshooting guide.

(Antenna Connected)

The Effective system sensitivity should be taken under normal conditions as well as with all transmitters producing full power. All transmitters keyed will show the worse case situation. To test the systems effective sensitivity through the test port with the antenna connected to the amplifiers perform the following steps;

1) The signal generator and SINAD meter (or bit error rate meter if appropriate) should be connected to the system as shown in Figure 18.

2) Under normal conditions the antenna is connected to the amplifiers so no software interactions are required. Be sure the signal generator is setup for a 3 KHz deviation with a 1000 Hz tone (analog) or proper pattern for BER testing.

3) Adjust the signal strength from the signal generator until the 12 dB SINAD or required BER point is acquired. This determines the systems

sensitivity in the presence of site noise. Record this value in the MCU’s memory for future use.

4) From the default display, use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the SENSITIVITY menu choice then press the ENTER button.

5) Use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the REFERENCE W/ANT menu choice and press the ENTER button.

6) Use the ARROW buttons to dial in the effective sensitivity value and press the ENTER button to save the information in memory. By storing the sensitivity value at the time of installation it can be compared with future tests and used as an indication of system degradation or failure.

The sensitivity value measured in step 3 is less (45 dB plus the Test Line loss) than the actual sensitivity value.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 22

Degradation

NOTE

Amplifier Displayed Value

TTA Amp A ~ 600 ma

TTA Amp B ~ 600 ma

Base Amp ~ 850 ma

Table 8: Typical current readings.

The difference between the static sensitivity (loadconnected) and the effective sensitivity (antennaconnected) is the system degradation which can be caused by noise or interference (such as a user on an active channel). At 800 MHz it is unusual to have degradation greater than 2 dB (and even this is rare). The degradation value should be recorded for future reference. Degradation levels in excess of 1 to 2 dB should be investigated, as this will decrease the range and performance of the system.

During normal operation only one of the two tower top amplifiers (“A” or “B”), along with the MCU ampl i fier (“BA S E”), ar e us e d t o a m p lify th e received RF signals. The LED’s for the two active amplifiers will illuminate green. The remaining tower-top amplifier will be in stand-by mode, which is indicated by its LED being off. The system software also provides an indication of which tower top amplifier is active. From the default display use the ARROW butto n to s croll down t o th e LNA X ACTIVE menu which wil l display the currently active tower top amplifier.

Upon power-up, the system defaults to operation on the “A” tower top amplifier (the “BASE” amplifier in the MCU is always on). Operation can be manually switched to the “B” tower top amplifier by pressing the “B-SELECT” switch, which is located below the “B-Status LED” on the MCU front panel. The “B-Status LED” will begin to flash, then press the ENTER button to finalize the selection.

Amplifier Monitoring

The system continuously mo nitors the current being drawn by all three amplifiers and reveals the status of the amplifiers in three ways: LCD Display, front panel LED’s and Form-C contacts (“screw terminals”). Table 7 summarizes the status of the LED’s and Form-C contacts for various amplifier conditions.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 23

ROUTINE OPERATION

If necessary the system can be re-initialized via software interaction. From the default display use the ARROW button to scroll to the INIT I ALIZE menu then press the ENTER button.

LCD Display

The LCD display provides extensive status information through the menu system including the current draw of all amplifiers, connection of the test transmission line, the tower top box temperature, and installed software version level.

CURRENT DRAW

Typical displayed values for each of the three system amplifiers is listed in Table 8. The current value for any amplifier can be read from the display by using the ARROW buttons to scroll down from the default display. The A and B tower top amplifiers current draw are shown on one menu display and the BASE amplifier current draw on another.

TEST CABLE CONNECTION

The status of the test cable is indicated by a menu display. Use the ARROW buttons to scroll down from the default display. The TEST CABLE submenu will show t he message Test Cable Connected or Test Cable Not Connected depending on the status of the test cable connections. The system will operate normally if the test cable has a bad connection although you will not be able to perform any diagnostics with the test port. In addition, the base status LED will continuously display an alarm (red) condition.

TTA TEMPERATURE

The temperature of the tower top box can be read from the display by using the ARROW buttons to scroll down from the default display to the TEMPERATURE sub-menu. The recommended normal operating temperature range for the tower top box is -30 to +60 degrees Celsius.

SOFTWARE VERSION

There are micro-controllers located in both the tower top box as well as the base unit so there are two software version s in the system. Bot h the BASE and TOWER software version can be read from the display by using the ARROW buttons to

scroll down from the default display to the SOFTWARE VERSION sub-menu.

Form-C contacts located at the back of the unit will also change state.

Front Panel LEDs

Status indicator LED’s for all three amplifiers illuminate in one of two colors. The meaning of each color is summarized in table 7. During normal operation, the LED’s for amplifier A and the BASE amplifier will glow green, indicating normal current draw. The LED for amplifier B will be off indicating this amplifier is in stand-by.

Form-C Contacts

ALARM form-C relay contacts are located at the back of the MCU (see figure 14). These screw terminals are intended for connection to th e customer’s supervisory and data acquisition system. Both normally open and normally closed contacts are available. There are two sets of screw terminals for customer convenience. Both sets of screw terminals have the same functionality.

ALARMS

The system will alarm when either of two distinct conditions occur including an abnormal current flow in any of the systems three amplifier assemblies or a loss of serial communications between the base unit and the tower top box.

When the current to any of the three amplifiers deviates from normal by approximately +/- 55 ma or greater the specific device LED will glow a solid red. In addition, amplifier switching will take place in the tower top box if the fault lies with one of the tower top amplifiers. There is no switching provision for the amplifier in the MCU. The AL ARM Form-C contacts located at the back of the unit will also change state.

Fault detection circuitry continuously monitors the DC power operation of the primary tower top quadamplifier and automatically switches to the identical secondary quad-amplifier if conditions indicate a primary malfunction. If the secondary quad-amplifier malfunctions, operation switches to whichever amplifier is still providing some gain due to operation of one of its amplification paths.

A loss of communications (along the main transmission line) between the microprocessors in the base unit and tower box will cause the front panel A and B indicator LED’s to flash RED. The ALARM

THE TEST MODE

The TEST sub-menu allows the field engineer to choose the active tower top amplifier as well as control the input of each of the tower top amplifiers via software. The base amplifier is always active. When you use functions in the TEST sub-menu you are operating the system in the test mode. Be aware that some of these tests will interrupt the RF signal path through the tower top box and on-air signals will not be passed to the station receivers.

We recommend that when you are in the test mode and you complete your testing use the CANCEL button to exit back to normal mode and the default display. If you exit the test mode without using the CANCEL button and leave one of the amplifiers in other than its normal operating condition the message “NonFunctional” will appear in the LNA X ACTIVE sub-menu. As a safety feature the system will switch out of the test mode and back into the normal mode of operation after about 9 minutes of inactivity. Each of the three functions available through the TEST sub-menu is described below.

Set LNA X Active

Allows the selection of the active amplifier via software interface.

1) From the TEST sub-menu display use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the SET LNA “A (or) B” ACTIVE menu choice, depending on which amplifier you want to choose as the active amp, and press the ENTER button.

2) If you choose to make the already active amplifier active again, the system will return you to the TEST sub-menu. If you choose to make the non-active amplifier active, then the “Test TTA Offline” message will appear. The RF signal path through the tower top box will be interrupted and on-air signals will not be passed to the station receivers.

3) Pressing the CANCEL button returns you to the default display. Whichever amplifier you had selected to be active in the TEST sub-menu will now be the active amplifier back in the normal mode and on-air signals will again pass through to the station receivers.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 24

If left unattended, after about 9

NOTE

minutes the system will switch out of the test mode and back into the normal mode of operation. The amplifier selected while in the test mode will now become the active amp and on-air signals will again pass through to the station receivers.

Terminate LNA X

Allows you to connect the input of either of the tower top amplifiers to its internal 50 ohm load.

1) From the TEST sub-menu display use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the TERMINATE LNA “A (or) B” menu choice and press the ENTER button.

2) If you choose to un-terminate the input of the active amplifier the system will return you to the TEST sub-menu. This is the normal behavior of the system, having the input of the active amplifier un-terminated. If you choose to un-terminate the input of the non-active amplifier then the “Test TTA Offline” message will appear. The RF signal path through the tower top box will not be interrupted and on-air signals will continue to be passed to the station receivers.

If left unattended, after about 9 minutes the system will switch out of the test mode and back into the normal mode of operation.

3) Pressing the CANCEL button returns you to the default display.

2) If you choose to terminate the input of the nonactive amplifier the system will return you to the TEST sub-menu. This is the normal behavior of the system, having the input of the non-active amplifier terminated to a 50 Ohm load. If you choose to terminate the input of the active amplifier then the “Test TTA Offline” message will appear. The RF signal path through the tower top box will be interrupted and on-air signals will not be passed to the station receivers.

If left unattended, after about 9 minutes the system will switch out of the test mode and back into the normal mode of operation. On-air signals will again pass through to the station receivers.

3) Pressing the CANCEL button returns you to the default display and on-air signals will again pass through to the station receivers.

Un-Terminate LNA X

Allows you to completely disconnect the input of either of the tower top amplifiers. The amplifier will no longer be connected to either the antenna or its internal 50 ohm load.

SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING

System problems fall under these main categories:

1) Performance problems characterized by poor receiver sensitivity and possibly accompanied by activation of the alarm system. RF interference or component problems can be the cause.

2) Hardware problems.

3) Power Supply.

Performance Degradation

Most performance difficulties manifest as an intermittent or c ontinuous loss of ef fective receive channel sensitivity sometimes accompanied by audible interference in FM systems or dropouts in digital radios. Sensitivity loss on a continuous basis is more likely to indicate a hardware problem which may produce an alarm condition. Table 9 is a troubleshooting guide that is read from top to bottom to narrow down the possible causes. The guide contains both symptoms and suggested tests as outlined earlier in this manual. Both the measurement of sensitivity and observation of the output spectrum are key tests along with the presence of any alarm condition.

1) From the TEST sub-menu display use the ARROW buttons to scroll over to the UNTERM LNA “A (or) B” menu choice and press the ENTER button.

Hardware Problems

Two of the most common reasons for TTA alarms are direct lightning strikes and vandalism. Even though the system is designed with redundancy so that likely-to-fail components have backups, it is possible to shut the system down, especially if a

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 25

common component such as a transmission line or

Loss of Sensitivity (Intermittent / Continuous)

Individual Receive Channel(s) affected All Receive Channels affected

Intermittent Continuous Intermittent Continuous

Measure Sensitivity Measure Sensitivity Measure Sensitivity Measure Sensitivity

Small to moderate loss of

sensitivity

Small to severe loss of

sensitivity

Small to moderate loss of

sensitivity

Small to severe loss of

sensitivity

Do spectrum analysis Do spectrum analysis Do spectrum analysis Do spectrum analysis

Two or more carriers > 35 dBm

when desense occurs

On-channel TX stuck on and

visible in spectrum.

One carrier > 35 dBm when

desense occurs then Carrier

Desense Interference likely.

Possible Alarm condition

Other-channel modulation

heard in FM system or dropouts

in digital system

Defective cable / connector /

Receiver

Carrier(s) < 35 dBm when

desense occurs then Transmit-

ter Noise Interference likely.

Check operation with amplifier

A and B. Failed amplifier gives

low sensitivity on 1 amplifier

only.

Intermodulation Interference

likely

If operation is the same on

amplifier A or B, Defective com-

mon component is likely

Table 9: Troubleshooting Guide for TTA systems with degraded performance. Shaded blocks indicate common possible cause.

antenna is damaged.

the main transmission line carries RF, so serious damage to this cable can prevent system operation. The system will operate normally if the test

LIGHTNING & LIGHTNING ARRESTERS

The tower box uses three lightning arresters: one on the antenna port, one for the main transmission

transmission line becomes damaged but there will be a loss of system testing and an alarm will be continuously set.

line and one for the test line. Although no practical amount of protection can prevent catastrophic failure as the result of a direct hit, the lightning arresters are very effective in preventing damage from nearby strikes and smaller direct hits. Lightning arresters do not last forever and can eventually fail, especially after a direct hit. A damaged arrester can cause low gain with known-good A and B amplifiers. An arrester with lightning damage will exhibit increased insertion loss, poor return loss and may appear as a DC short on the main or test lines.

VANDALISM

Damage to the TTA caused by hunters or targetshooters in remote locations is not uncommon. Penetrating bullets may open or short transmission lines. Operating voltages are applied to the tower top box by the main transmission line. In addition,

AC Line Fuse (Model 429-83H-01-M)

A failure of the power supply will obviously shut the tower amplifier down because of high signal loss through the tower box and MCU. The power supply is located on the MCU chassis and has a replaceable 250 volt, 2 amp fuse for the AC line. The supply has a green status LED located next to the connectors which illuminates when the supply is turned on.

DISCONNECTED CABLES

If a faulty connection occurs in any segment of either the main transmission cable, test cable, or the CAT-5e cables the system responds with a fault indication. In the case of the CAT-5e cables the fault could occur in either the cable which runs between the rear of the MCU and the bulkhead lightning arrester or the cable which runs between

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 26

the front panel circuit board and the rear panel cir-

Model # Operating

Range

(MHz)

Band-

width (MHz)

89-83F-02-03 792 to 806 3

89-83F-02-06 792 to 806 6

89-83F-02-09 792 to 806 9

89-83F-02-14 792 to 806 14

89-86A-02-03 806 to 824 3

89-86A-02-05 806 to 824 5

89-86A-02-10 806 to 824 10

89-86A-02-15 806 to 824 15

89-86A-02-18 806 to 824 18

Table 11: Optional Narrowband Filters.

Fault Indication

Main Cable

Disconnected

Base LED steady Red.

A and B LED flash Red.

“Tower Comm Lost” message

appears in sub-menu’s.

Test Cable

Disconnected

Base LED steady RED.

“Test Cable Not Connected”

message appears in the TEST

CABLE sub-menu.

CAT-5e Cable Disconnected

Base LED steady Green.

A and B LED flash Red.

“Tower Comm Lost” message

appears in sub-menu’s.

Table 10: Disconnected Cables.

cuit board (on the MCU deck itself). Table 10 lists the faults and system responses.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE

The following procedures can be followed as part of a periodic maintenance program.

1) TX RX Systems Inc. recommends that tests for establishing the performance level of the system, as outlined in this manual, be performed every six months.

4) All feedline connections should be inspected for tightness and waterproofing integrity. Water seeping into the transmission lines will cause system degradation.

RECOMMENDED SPARE PARTS

It is recommended that one distribution amplifier assembly be kept on hand for emergency repairs. Th e part number of the d istributio n ampl i f ier assembly is 3-21450.

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

Optional equipment can be purchased from TX RX Systems Inc. in order to increase the performance of your TTA system. These include a narrowband filter as well as a multicoupler expansion deck. The narrowband filter is designed to help limit the bandwidth of the multicoupler unit. The multicoupler expansion deck will increase the total multicoupler outputs to 32.

Narrowband Filter

There are a total of nine different narrowband filters available for use with your TTA system. There are four filters which operate in the 792 to 806 MHz range and five filters in the 806 to 824 MHz range. Table 11 lists all of the optional narrowband filters. The narrowband filter is designed to be added to the RF signal path just after the distribution amplifier in the MCU. The additional filter will provide a narrower pass window for the multicoupler unit.

2) Because it is possible that the current alarms may not detect a fault affecting RF gain, we recommend measuring system sensitivity every six months and comparing this value against the stored value.

3) A yearly inspection of the tower box is also recommended. The box features a hinged door, which may be opened after loosening the locking clamps. Inspect and tighten any loose connectors or other hardware. Make sure the moisture relief openings are unobstructed and remove any accumulated condensation. It is important to tighten the door-clamp locking screws uniformly after inspection so that the door gasket seal is maintained. Tighten each clamp about half-way, then start back at the first clamp and fully tighten each one in the same order. Tighten with a hand tool only.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 27

Figure 19 shows a basic interconnect diagram for

Figure 20: Optional multicoupler expansion deck, part # DDX1002A.

Dist

Amp

Opt

Filter

8-Way

4-Way

8-Way

RF OUT

RF IN

From

Tower

Figure 19: Optional filter interconnect diagram.

the filte r, s pecif ic installati on instr uction s are included with the optional filter when it ships from the factory. It is recommended that the filter be mounted in the same rack just above the MCU. The optional filter will require 2 “rack units” of space.

Multicoupler Expansion Deck

The optional multicoupler expansion deck (part # DDX1002A) is shown in Figure 20 and includes a pair of 8-way dividers mounted on a 19 inch deck. These 8-way dividers are designed to be co nnected to the unused outputs of the 4-way divider at the back of the MCU deck (refer to figure 2C). With this option installed, a total of 32 syste m receivers can be connected, with the system gain remaining constant for all receivers. Cables are provided for connecting the inputs of the 8-ways to th e u nused outp uts of the 4-way. I t i s r ecommended that the multicoupler expansion deck be mounted in the same rack just beneath the MCU deck. The optional multicoupler expansion deck will require 1 “rack unit” of space.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 28

ETHERNET CONNECTIVITY

NOTE

APPENDIX A

Front Panel Ethernet Connectivity

LINK LED

(left side)

ACTIVITY LED

(right side)

Color Meaning Color Meaning

Off No Link Off No Activity

Amber 10 Mbps Amber Half-Duplex

Green 100 Mbps Green Full-Duplex

Table A1: LAN port status LED’s

The front panel LAN connector on the MCU provides for 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet connection using the TCP-IP protocol. This product feature allows access to a web-based interface for controlling and monitoring of amplifier currents, alarms, and attenuators. The web based interface requires a JAVA runtime environment (version 1.6.0). The JAVA software can be downloaded free of charge from the Sun Microsystems website found at “http:/ /java.com/en/download/index.jsp”. An RJ45 connector is provided on the front panel of the MCU for the network connection. The MCU is shipped from t h e fa c t o r y wi t h a de f a u l t IP ad d r e s s o f “192.168.1.1”.

Two connection schemes are discussed including a direct connection from your laptop computer to the MCU front panel as well as connecting the MCU to a networked environment. A direct connection (at the installation site) should be established the first time you interface to the TTA using the fixed IP mentioned above. Once the initial communications are established the IP address in the MCU can be changed to permit a networked connection (from a remote site such as your office).

1) Insure the JAVA runtime environment software is installed on your laptop.

2) Connect your laptop network port to the LAN connector on the MCU front panel using a standard CAT-5 Crossover cable.

The front panel LAN connector has two built-in bi-color status LED’s which will aid you in establishing communications. The meaning of each LED is shown in Table A1.

Direct Connection

Your initial connection to the TTA system should be a direct connection to the front panel using an Ethernet crossover cable. Figure A1 shows the proper way to interconnect the equipment as well as the pinout for a CAT-5 crossover cable.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Cat-5 Crossover Cable Laptop Computer with a network interface card installed. In addition, the JAVA run-time environment version 1.6.0, and a web browser such as Internet Explorer must also be installed on the laptop.

PROCEDURE

To connect your laptop computer to the front panel LAN port and access the web page interface, perform the following steps;

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 29

3) The left-most (LINK) status LED built-in to the LAN port connector should illuminate amber or green indicating that a good physical connection is established between your computer and the TTA.

4) Insure that your laptop’s IP address is compatible with the default address of the TTA system. This may require changes be made to the Ethernet adaptor address on your laptop. Your laptop’s IP address will need to be set to

“192.168.1.2” along with a subnet mask of “255.0.0.0”. The right-most (ACTIVITY) status

LED built-in to the LAN port connector will turn amber or green indicating good TCP-IP communications are established between the laptop and the MCU.

5) Launch your web browser software on the laptop.

NOTE

Orange/White

Orange

Green/White

Blue

Blue/White

Green

Brown/White

Brown

Green/White Green Orange/White

Blue Blue/White

Orange

Brown/White Brown

Transmit (1 & 2)

Receive (3 & 6) Transmit (3 & 6)

Receive (1& 2)

Pins 4, 5, 7 and 8 are not used

Pin Pin

CAT-5 Cross-Over Cable

1 8 1 8

Figure A1: Direct connection to the TTA using crossover cable.

6) In your web browsers address box type-in the address of the TTA “http://192.168.1.1” and press the ENTER key. The web page interface to the TTA should appear in your laptop’s browser window. The first time you launch the web page you may notice that the JAVA applet will load first.

Networked Connection

Before attempting a networked connection to the TTA system consult with your IT support personnel for information concerning the correct IP address to use and any additional connectivity issues such as firewalls. Once you have the correct IP address you will need to direct connect to the TTA system as discussed in the earlier section of this appendix

For a complete description of the web based interface software refer to the TX RX Systems Inc. technical manual 7-9440.

and reconfigure the TTA LAN port with this new address. You can then connect the TAA system using a straight-through CAT-5 cable to the networked environment and interface to it from a remote computer. Figure A2 shows the proper

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 30

Orange/White

Orange

Green/White

Blue

Blue/White

Green

Brown/White

Brown

Orange/White Orange Green/White

Blue Blue/White

Green

Brown/White Brown

Transmit (1 & 2)

Receive (3 & 6) Transmit (3 & 6)

Receive (1& 2)

Pins 4, 5, 7 and 8 are not used

Pin Pin

TX RX Systems

member Bird Technologies Group

LAN

1 2 3 4

4 Port Ethernet Hub

1 2 3 4

4 Port Ethernet Hub

CAT-5 Straight-Through Cable

Modem/Router Modem/Router

Remote PC System

Internet

1 8 1 8

Figure A2: WAN connection to the TTA using straight-through cable.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 31

way to interconnect the equipment for a networked

Figure A5: Enter TCP-IP Parameters.

Figure A4: Connect using TCP-IP.

Figure A3: Connection name and icon.

connection as well as the pinout for a straight-thru CAT-5 cable.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Cat-5 Straight-thru Cable Laptop Computer with a network interface card installed. In addition, the JAVA run-time environment version 1.6.0, and a web browser such as Internet Explorer must also be installed on the laptop.

PROCEDURE

Before a networked connection can be established, the MCU LAN Por t mu st be changed to a n IP address that’s compatible with your network. If you are unsure how to determine this address check with your IT suppor t personnel. To connect the TTA LAN port to a networked environment and access the web page interface, perform the following steps;

3) Launch Hyper-Term on your laptop.

1) Change the MCU’s LAN port IP address. To do this, direct connect your laptop to the MCU as discussed in the earlier section of this appendix (Direct Connection) and follow steps 1 through

2) With the direct connection established, you can proceed with changing the IP address of the TTA by using the Hyper-Term utility and a Telnet connection. The Hyper-Term utility is usually included with the windows operating system.

4) Once Hyper-Term is launched it will ask you to enter a connection name and choose an icon, see Figure A3. Use something descriptive like “TTA” for example. When the connection name is entered and an icon selected press the OK tab.

5) The Connect To box will appear as shown in Figure A4. Under Connect Using select TCP-IP (Winsock) from the pull down choices. The Connect To box should reconfigure itself once you have selected TCP/IP (Winsock).

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 32

6) Type in the host IP address. This is the current

Figure A7: Entering the Setup Mode.

Figure A6: Password Prompt.

address of the TTA (factory default is

192.168.1.1). Type in the port number of 9999, see Figure A5. Click the OK tab to complete the TelNet connection.

7) The HyperTerm window will now display a flashing cursor, see Figure A6. Type in “bird” using small letters at the password prompt (“bird” is the factory default password). A prompt to enter the setup mode will now appear as shown in Figure A7.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 33

8) TTA LAN port configuration information will be

NOTE

Figure A8: The Change Setup Menu.

displayed as well as the Change Setup Menu as shown in Figure A8. For Your Choice type in “0” to select Server and press the ENTER key.

9) Enter the new IP address information that was provided to you from your IT support personnel.

10) To finalize your selections choose (9) to save

the new information and exit the Setup Menu. Close the HyperTerm utility program.

11) Disconnect your laptop from the TTA. Connect

your network cable (straight through type as shown in figure A2) to the front panel LAN connector. The TTA system can now be accessed through your network the same as you would any network connected device.

TTA Network Port Security

In order to strengthen the security of the device and protect against network intruders, the LAN port is configured with the default security precautions described below.

DATA ENCRYPTION

The web interface uses data encryption to protect the data exchange between the TTA system and the attached device. The port employs 128-bit data encryption using the Rijndael algorithm and a special encryption key set at the factory.

SNMP SUPPORT DISABLED

This will prevent unauthorized SNMP access. If SNMP is required to be used for network management, this will need to be re-enabled and setup as desired by your network administrator

12) From your remote computer, in your web

browser’s address box type-in the new IP address of the TTA system. The web page interface to the TTA should appear in your remote computer’s browser window. The first time you launch the web page you may notice that the JAVA applet will load first.

For a complete description of the web based interface software refer to the TX RX Systems Inc. technical manual 7-9440.

TELNET SECURITY

A factory default Telnet password has been added to d e t e r a nyone from ac c essing the p r o duct through the Telnet port without proper authorization. It is recommended that the user concerned with high security should change this to a password of choice. The procedure for doing this is explained in the next section.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 34

Changing The Telnet Port Password

NOTE

Figure A9: Changing the Telnet Password.

To change the Telnet por t password perform the following steps;

1) Launch HyperTerm on your direct connected laptop or your remote PC.

2) Navigate to the Change Setup Menu by following steps 4 through 8 as discussed in the earlier section of this appendix (Networked Connection).

3) At the fourth query in the Server menu “Change telnet config password (N)” type-in “Y” for yes and you will be prompted to enter the new password. Refer to Figure A9.

The password is factory limited to four characters.

4) Type-in the four characters of the new password and you will automatically return to the Change Setup Menu.

5) To finalize your password change choose (9) to save the new information and exit the Change Setup Menu. Close the Hyperterm utility program.

It is suggested to keep note of this password change in order to prevent an issue with future connections through Telnet.

TX RX Systems Inc. Manual 7-9439-6 09/03/09 Page 35

When you initially direct connect your service com-

Figure B1: Choose the “Control Panel” icon.

Appendix B

Changing Your Service Computers IP Address

puter to the TTA it will be necessary to change the computers IP address. The procedure for doing this varies depending upon your operating system. As an example, this appendix illustrates how to make the change using the Microsoft XP operating system. The procedure for other operating systems will vary slightly from this example. Consult with your IT support personnel if needed. To change the IP address (assuming the Microsoft XP operating system is being used) perform the following in a step-by-step fashion;

1) Select “Start” from the status menu.

2) Single click the “Control Panel” choice from the “Start” pop-up menu as shown in Figure B1.

5) The “Local Area Connection Status” box will open. Single click the “Properties” tab as shown in Figure B4. Note: If you do not have the cable connected between the service computer and the TTA front panel the “Local Area Connection Status” box will not open. Instead proceed to step 6.

6) The “Local Area Connection Properties” box will open. Use the arrow buttons to scroll down the list until the “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)” choice is highlighted as shown in Figure B5. Click the “Properties” tab at the right-center of the box.

7) Select the “Use the following IP address” bubble. Make sure the circle is filled-in. Refer to Figure B6.

3) From the “Control Panel” icon selections double click on the “Network Connections” icon. Refer to Figure B2.

4) When the “Network Connections” folder opens double click on the “Local Area Connection” icon. See Figure B3.

8) Enter the new IP address and subnet mask values as shown in Figure B7. To interface your computer to the TTA Base Unit use an IP address of “192.168.1.2” and a subnet mask of “255.0.0.0”.

9) Click on the “OK” tab to initiate the changes. This completes the procedure. Close any open boxes.

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