VIPER SC™VIPER SC+™
IP ROUTER FOR LICENSED SPECTRUM
User Manual
PN 001-5008-000 Rev 11
Revised August 2011
REVISION HISTORY
REV
DATE
DESCRIPTION
REV 0
Jan 2008
Initial Release as 001-5008-000.
REV 1
May 2008
Update Dual Port Viper SC information.
REV 2
Sept 2008
Added information about SNMP. Updated Firmware Upgrade instructions.
REV 3
Dec 2008
Added information about TCP Client Server Mode. Added information about
Saving/Restoring User Configuration files.
REV 4
Apr 2009
Added information about V1.5 Viper SC code release. Added information about TCP Proxy
Feature. Added note to RF Acknowledgment section. Corrected Viper SC Power Cable Part
in Accessory Table. Added specifications and part number for 900 MHz Viper SC. Updated
RF Exposure Compliance requirements. Added Choosing an IP Addressing Scheme
REV 5
Jul 2009
Added information about V1.6 Viper SC code release. Added information about Listen
Before Transmit Disable feature. Added section about RF MAC override feature. Added
section about the Periodic Reset feature. Added screen shot and information for the “Add
Static Entry” function
REV 6
Sept 2009
Added Listen Before Transmit Disable Feature. (Previously Read: Added Listen Before Talk
Disable Feature).
REV 7
Nov 2009
Updated user manual for product name change from ViPR to Viper SC
REV 8
Jun 2010
Added UL information. Added information and specifications for Viper SC-200. Added
information about V1.7 Viper SC firmware Release. Corrected radio firmware upgrade
command line instructions errors in Section 13.3 that were introduced in revision 7 of the
user manual. Added section about VPN. Added section about Radius. Updated SNMP
section. Updated screen captures and descriptions
REV 9
Sept 2010
Rebranded for Viper SC, Updates to Security – VPN Section 4.5.3.
REV 10
Aug 2011
Added VHF ETSI Viper Part Numbers and ETSI Base Station part numbers (Section 1.5).
Added sensitivity numbers for VHF ETSI Viper (Appendix A). Added additional regulatory
certifications for VHF ETSI Viper (Appendix B).
Updated VHF ETSI frequencies from 136-174 to 142-174MHz.
Added frequency ranges for ETSI and AS/NZ compliant models in section 1.2.
Rearranged model number layout in Appendix A.
Added standards information to Appendix B.
Updated RF Exposure Compliance Recommendations.
Updated Unit Identification and Status mode selection, section 4.1.1.
Updated Diagnostics Info – SNR from RF-MAC, section 4.1.2.
Channel Table/Current Settings mode selection changed, section 4.3.3.
Multicast section updated, section 4.4.3.
IP Optimization updates, section 4.4.4.
VPN Configuration updates, section 4.5.3.
Remote Statistics added, section 4.6.3.
SINAD Meter added to RF Tests, section 4.7.5.
Wing Commander pages added, section 4.7.6.
REV 11
Aug 2011
Updated EU and EFTA Member States’ Acceptable Frequency Table in Appendix B.
REV 12a
July 2013
Add ViperSC+ Model Numbers
Important Notice
The Viper SC radio is intended for use in the Industrial Monitoring and Control and SCADA markets.
The Viper SC unit must be professionally installed and must ensure a minimum separation distance
listed in the table below between the radiating structure and any person. An antenna mounted on a
pole or tower is the typical installation and in rare instances, a 1/2-wave whip antenna is used.
Antenna Gain
Min Safety Distance (cm @max power)
5 dBi
10 dBi
15 dBi
VHF
123cm
219cm
389cm
UHF
122cm
217cm
386cm
900 MHz (Model # 1405098304)
66 cm
117 cm
208 cm
900 MHz (Model # 1405098504)
64 cm
114 cm
202 cm
Because of the nature of wireless communication, transmission and reception of data can never be guaranteed. Data may
be delayed, corrupted (i.e., have errors), or be totally lost. Significant delays or losses of data are rare when wireless devices
such as the Viper SC are used in a normal manner with a well-constructed network. Viper SC should not be used in
situations where failure to transmit or receive data could result in damage of any kind to the user or any other party,
including but not limited to personal injury, death, or loss of property. CalAmp accepts no responsibility for damages of any
kind resulting from delays or errors in data transmitted or received using Viper SC, or for the failure of Viper SC to transmit
or receive such data.
Products offered may contain software proprietary to CalAmp. The offer of supply of these products and services does not
include or infer any transfer of ownership. No part of the documentation or information supplied may be divulged to any
third party without the express written consent of CalAmp. CalAmp reserves the right to update its products, software, or
documentation without obligation to notify any individual or entity. Product updates may result in differences between the
information provided in this manual and the product shipped.
RF Exposure Compliance Requirements
It is the responsibility of the user to guarantee compliance with the FCC MPE regulations when operating this device in a way
other than described above. The installer of this equipment must ensure the antenna is located or pointed such that it does
not emit an RF field in excess of Health Canada limits for the general population.
Viper SC uses a low power radio frequency transmitter. The concentrated energy from an antenna may pose a health
hazard. People should not be in front of the antenna when the transmitter is operating.
Recommended safety guidelines for the human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy are contained in the
Canadian Safety Code 6 (available from Health Canada), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Bulletin 65 and the
Council of the European Union’s Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of exposure of the general public to
electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz) (1999/519/EC).
Class A Digital Device Compliance
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance (in the country where used)
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
1.1 General Description .............................................................................................................................................. 1
1.3.2 LED Panel ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
1.3.3 Front Panel ........................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1.3 Report by Exception ........................................................................................................................................... 11
2.1.4 Extending the Coverage Area with a Relay Point ............................................................................................... 11
2.3.2 Terrain and Signal Strength ................................................................................................................................ 18
2.3.3 Radio Interference ............................................................................................................................................. 18
2.3.4 Selecting Antenna and Feedline ........................................................................................................................ 18
3.1 PC LAN Setup ...................................................................................................................................................... 20
3.2 Install the Antenna ............................................................................................................................................. 20
3.3 Measure and Connect Primary Power ................................................................................................................ 20
3.4 Connect Viper SC to Programming PC ................................................................................................................. 21
3.5 Configure Your Viper .......................................................................................................................................... 21
4.1Unit Status ......................................................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................... 27
4.3.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................... 31
4.3.2 IP Settings .......................................................................................................................................................... 33
4.3.4 Serial Ports ......................................................................................................................................................... 36
4.4.2 IP Services .......................................................................................................................................................... 44
4.4.3 IP Addressing...................................................................................................................................................... 55
4.4.4 IP Optimization .................................................................................................................................................. 57
4.4.5 IP routing ............................................................................................................................................................ 59
4.4.6 Time Source ....................................................................................................................................................... 59
4.4.8 User Settings ...................................................................................................................................................... 61
4.6.2 Serial Interface ................................................................................................................................................... 73
4.7.1 Ping Test ............................................................................................................................................................. 75
4.7.2 Config Control .................................................................................................................................................... 76
4.7.3 Package Control ................................................................................................................................................. 77
4.7.4 Net Tests ............................................................................................................................................................ 77
4.8.2 Status ................................................................................................................................................................. 89
5.2 Maximizing Throughput with a Weak RF Link ..................................................................................................... 90
5.2.1 Use Router Mode with RF Acknowledgements Enabled ................................................................................... 90
5.2.2 Reduce RF Network Bit Rate .............................................................................................................................. 90
5.2.3 Increase OIP and MAC Retries Limit .................................................................................................................. 91
6UPGRADING YOUR FIRMWARE .................................................................................................................................. 92
APPENDIX A – SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 95
APPENDIX B – REGULATORY CERTIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................. 102
APPENDIX C – PRODUCT WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................... 106
APPENDIX D – DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 107
1 PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Viper SC provides any IP-enabled device with connectivity to transmit data. This DSP-based radio was designed for industrial
applications utilizing 136-174 MHz, 215-240 MHz VHF, 406.1-512 MHz UHF, 880-902 and 928-960 MHz frequencies.
Operational as a wideband IP Modem or Router, Viper SC is optimized for use in SmartGrid, Distribution Automation, and
SCADA applications. SCADA applications are defined as those with one or more centralized control sites used to monitor
and control remote field devices over wide areas. For example, a regional utility may monitor and control networks over an
entire metropolitan area. Industry sectors with SCADA systems include energy utilities, water and wastewater utilities, and
environmental groups.
1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Designed to replace wire lines, the Ethernet and RS-232 serial ports allow direct connection to Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs) or Remote Terminal Units (RTUs). Viper supports serial and Ethernet/IP Remote Terminal Units (RTU) and
programmable logic controllers (PLC). It is standard IEEE 802.3 compliant. Viper supports any protocol running over IPv4
(including ICMP, IPinIP, IPSec, RSVP, TCP and UDP protocols). It provides MAC layer bridging and HTTP, ARP, and static
routing packet forwarding.
1.2 OPERATIONAL CHARACTE RISTICS
Viper has the following operational characteristics:
Frequency range of 136-174 MHz, 215-240 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, 450-512 MHz, 880-902 or 928-960 MHz
142-174 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, and 450-512 MHz frequency ranges certified for European Union (ETSI EN300 113)
142-174 MHz, 406.1-470 MHz, and 450-512 MHz frequency ranges certified for Australia/New Zealand (ACMA
AS/NZS 4925-2004 (Spectrum Impact Assessment))
User-selectable data rates – up to 128 kbps @ 50 kHz
Wide input power range of 10 to 30 volts DC
Built-in transceiver adjustable from 1 to 10 watts (8 watts max for 900MHz)
Used as an access point or an end point with each configurable in (a) Bridge mode for quick setup of units on same
network or (b) Router mode for advanced networks
Embedded web server to access status and/or setup information
Remote access for over-the-air system firmware upgrades
Advanced AES 128-bit data encryption and security designed to meet FIPS 140-2 requirements
Superior data compression (zlib compression algorithm applies to Serial and IP connections)
Native UDP and TCP/IP support
Online and Offline Diagnostics
Supports up to 32 different frequency channel pairs
Rugged die-cast aluminum and steel case
UL Certified when powered by a listed Class 2 source
Viper SC ready, normal operations
Viper SC hardware fault
Status
Green
Blinking Green
Red
Amber (Solid or Blinking)
Viper SC no faults, normal operations
Viper SC scanning for neighbors
Viper SC has a fault condition, check unit status
Viper SC detects high background noise
1.3 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTIO N
Viper consists of two logic PCBs, one that includes the modem circuitry and the other the radio module. Both are installed
in a cast aluminum case. The unit is not hermetically sealed and should be mounted in a suitable enclosure when dust,
moisture, and/or a corrosive atmosphere are anticipated.
1.3.1 CHASSIS DIMENSIONS
Figure 1 shows the dimensions of the chassis and mounting plate.
Figure 1 – Chassis and Mounting Plate
The equipment is intended for installation only in a RESTRICTED ACCESS LOCATION per EN60950-1:2006
1.3.2 LED PANEL
There are five (5) Tri-Color LEDs. Their functionality is shown in Table 1.
Ethernet activity detected on PHY link (RJ45)
No Ethernet activity on PHY link (RJ45)
Lnk
Green
Off
Ethernet connection established (RJ45)
No Ethernet connection (RJ45)
Rx/Tx
Green
Red
Receiving data
Transmitting data
Contact
10 Base-T Signal
1
TXP(1)
2
TXN(1)
3
RXP(1)
4
SPARE
5
SPARE
1.3.3 FRONT PANEL
Shown in Figure 2, the front panel has the following connections:
(1) RJ-45 LAN 10 BaseT Ethernet connection with Auto-MDIX
(1) 50-ohm TNC female Antenna connector
(1) 50-ohm SMA female receive antenna connector (Dual-Port models only)
(1) Right-angle power connector (10-30 VDC)
(2) DE-9F RS-232 ports
Figure 2 – Front Panel (Dual Port Viper-200 Shown)
1.3.3.1 ETHERNET LAN PORT
The Ethernet LAN port is an RJ-45 receptacle with a 10 BaseT Ethernet connection and Auto-MDIX. Refer Table 2 for pin out
descriptions and Section 4.6.1 to configure the LAN settings for this port.
Table 2 – Pin-out for IEEE-802.3 RJ-45 Receptacle Contacts
(1) The name shows the default function. Given the Auto-MDIX capability of the Ethernet transceiver, TX and RX function
could be swapped.
Contact
EIA-232F Function
Signal Direction
1
DCD(1)
DTE ← DCE
2
RXD
DTE ← DCE
3
TXD
DTE → DCE
4
DTR
DTE → DCE
5
GND
DTE --- DCE
6
DSR(2)
DTE ← DCE
7
RTS(1)
DTE → DCE
8
CTS(1)
DTE ← DCE
9
RING (3)
DTE --- DCE
(1) Programmable (2) Always asserted (3) For future use
Contact (Left to Right)
Color
Description
4 Fan Power Output (5V)
3
Black
Ground
2
Red
Positive (10-30) VDC
1
White
Enable
1.3.3.2 SETUP AND COM PORTS
The SETUP and COM serial connections are DE-9F RS-232 ports. Refer to Table 3 for pin out descriptions and Section 4.3.4
for control line configuration of DCD, DTR, RTS and CTS control lines.
Serial port considerations:
Viper SETUP and COM ports are Data Communication Equipment (DCE) devices
In general, equipment connected to the Viper SC’s serial ports is Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and a straight-
through cable is recommended.
If a DCE device is connected to the Viper serial ports, a null modem cable/adapter is required.
Table 3 – Pin-out for DCE SETUP and COM port, 9 Contact DE-9 Connector
1.3.3.3 POWER CONNECTOR
Viper is supplied with a right-angle power connector (10-30 VDC). Table 4 shows the pin-out of the power connector.
WARNING – EXPLOSION HAZARD- Do not disconnect unless power has been removed or the area is known to
be non-hazardous
WARNING – EXPLOSION HAZARD- Do not disconnect unless power has been removed or the area is known to
be non-hazardous
WARNING -EXPLOSION HAZARD-Substitution of components may impair suitability for Class I, Division 2.
The unit must be powered with a Listed Class 2 or LPS power supply or equivalent.
Model Number
Frequency Range
Description
140-5018-502
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100
140-5018-503
136 - 174 MHz
Viper SC-100 (Dual Port)
The White Enable line must be tied to the red positive lead of the connector for the Viper SC to function.
1.3.3.4 ANTENNA CONNECTOR
Standard Viper models have a 50-ohm TNC female antenna connector. This connection functions for both transmit and
receive. Dual-Port models feature a 50-ohm TNC female antenna connector functioning for transmit (only) and a 50-ohm
SMA female antenna connector functioning for receive (only). The separate receive antenna connector is ideal for
applications that require additional receive filtering, external PA(s) and other options.
Warning: The transmit antenna port must not be connected directly to the receive antenna port of the Dual-Port Viper SC.
Excessive power into the receive antenna port will damage the radio. Input power to the receiver should not exceed 17 dBm
(50mW).
To reduce potential interference, the antenna type and its gain should be chosen to ensure the effective isotropic radiated
power (EIRP) is not more than required for successful communication.
The antenna connector is for connection to antennas housed inside of a suitable enclosure.
1.4 PRODUCT WARRANTY
It is our guarantee that every Viper SC Radio modem will be free from physical defects in material and workmanship for
ONE YEAR from the date of purchase when used within the limits set forth in APPENDIX A – SPECIFICATIONS. The
manufacturer's warranty statement is available in APPENDIX C – PRODUCT WARRANTY.
If the product proves defective during the warranty period, contact our Customer Service Department at (800) 992-7774 to
obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA). BE SURE TO HAVE THE EQUIPMENT MODEL, SERIAL NUMBER, AND BILLING
& SHIPPING ADDRESSES AVAILABLE WHEN CALLING. You may also request an RMA number online at www.calamp.com.
1.5 MODELS AND AVAILABILITY
Viper SC is available in various models. Each is available with a range features, kits, and accessories. Refer to Table 5 for
product availability and ordering information. Refer to Table 6 for Viper SC antenna and antenna kits and Table 7 for Viper
SC accessories.
This section discusses network architecture, basic network types, interfacing modems and DTE, data protocols for efficient
channel operation, as well as providing tips for selecting an appropriate site, antenna selection, and reducing the chance of
harmful interference.
2.1 NETWORK ARCHITECTURE
In a radio system, only one radio should transmit at a time. If two radios transmit at the same time to another radio, RF
collisions occur. Collisions will slow data traffic and may corrupt data. Most SCADA networks have a device that is
configured to be the ‘polling master’. It is the responsibility of this polling master to control RF traffic so RF collisions do not
occur.
Viper has RF collision avoidance technology (checks the air wave for a carrier before transmitting) and Ethernet CSMA
(Carrier Sense Multiple Access). CSMA is an Ethernet collision avoidance mechanism technology built into to all Ethernet
connections. However, these technologies must still be supplemented by the HMI/PLC polling master to optimize RF data
traffic.
Some HMI/PLC Ethernet applications may depend solely on Ethernet CSMA to control the flow of messages to avoid RF
collisions in a Viper data network. This may flood the network with multiple polling messages, making it difficult for the
RTUs to acquire the airwave to transmit their reply messages. This will cause the RTUs to compete for airtime and a
dominant RTU may be created.
While the dominant RTU/radio is transmitting, the other RTUs will send their reply messages to their connected Viper SC.
Viper SCs will buffer reply messages because the dominant RTU/radio is transmitting (carrier is present). A Viper SC will
buffer (while a carrier is present) a reply message until it can capture the airwave (carrier absent) to transmit. There could
be five or six RTU/radios in a small system (or 10 or 20 in a large system), which could be trying to capture the airwaves to
transmit. The RTUs will not respond in the order they were polled but will respond when they are ready and have captured
the airwaves. The dominant RTU is created because it happens to reply at just the right time and be in the right order in the
polling sequence.
A common method for a polling master to manage RF traffic is for the HMI/PLC polling master to poll one remote at a time.
The next polling message is not sent until the current message has been completed (“Done”) or has timed out. This
prevents more than one outstanding polling message. Ladder logic programs typically refer to these parameters as the
message “Done” and “Error” bits. The “Done” and “Error” bits parameter values can be adjusted for longer timeout values,
if required.
Because the Viper SC has the ability to use two completely different and separate SCADA polling protocols, it is important to
have interaction between the two protocols. The Viper SC can send out an Ethernet TCP/IP polling message and also an
RS232 polling message, which may or may not be generated by the same HMI/PLC. CalAmp recommends the user program
the polling sequence in each protocol with logic that interacts with the other’s protocol “Done” and “Error” bits. The
Ethernet polling protocol would not be allowed to send a message until the current Ethernet message is either “Done” or
“Error” and the previous RS232 message are either “Done” or “Error” bits are set. The RS232 polling protocol would also
A point-to-point network is the most simple of all networks, and may be used for connecting a pair of PC's, a host computer
and a terminal, a SCADA polling master and one remote, or a wide variety of other networking applications.
Figure 3 – Point to Point Network
2.1.2 POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT
A Point-to-Multipoint network is a common network type used in SCADA and other polling systems. The Master Polling
station communicates with any number of remotes and controls the network by issuing polls and waiting for remote
responses. Individual PLC/RTU remotes manage addressing and respond when their individual addresses are queried.
PLC/RTU unit addresses are maintained in a scanning list stored in the host program or master terminal device at the SCADA
host site. Communications equipment is transparent and does not interact with specific remotes; all data is coupled to the
host on a single data line (such a network is commonly used with synchronous radio modems and asynchronous radio
modems).
In a true Report by Exception configuration, the remotes send data to the master only when an event or exception has
occurred in the remote. However, most Report by Exception systems have a master/remote polling component. The master
polls the remotes once every hour or half-hour to ensure there is still a valid communication path. In a Report by Exception
configuration, there will not be a master controlling RF traffic and RF collisions will often occur.
Viper has several collision avoidance features to help minimize collisions. Viper is a “polite radio”. This means Viper will
check the RF traffic on the receive channel before transmitting. If there is no RF traffic present (no carrier present) it will
transmit. If there is RF traffic (carrier present) the Viper SC will buffer the data. Viper will transmit the buffered data when
there is no RF traffic present.
2.1.4 EXTENDING THE COVERAGE AREA WITH A RELAY POINT
A Viper can be configured as a Relay Point. Relay Points provide store and forward repeating of necessary information from
one coverage area to the next. In Bridge mode all traffic is forwarded. In Router mode, only Broadcast Packets and address
specific packets are forwarded. There may be multiple Relay Points to extend coverage over several hops. Multiple relay
points in a single network may slow the flow of data traffic.
To configure your Viper as a Relay point, refer to Section 3.5.2.
Figure 5 – Two Coverage Areas
2.2 IP FORWARDING MODES
All Ethernet capable devices, or hosts, have at least one IP address and a subnet mask assigned to it. The IP address
identifies a specific device and the subnet mask tells the device which other IP addresses it can directly communicate with.
When any host needs to communicate with another device that is not within the same local area network it will first send
the data packet to the gateway or router. The gateway or router will forward the packet to the desired location. Often
times a packet will pass through several gateways or routers to get to its final destination.
Bridge mode is the simplest configuration for all Viper networks. Viper may be configured for bridge mode only when all
devices are located on the same Local Area Network (LAN). Thus, all units in the network can communicate directly with all
other units in the network.
Each Viper has only one IP address assigned to it and the subnet mask is the same for every Viper in the network. Bridge
communications does not require each Viper to have a unique IP address, but it is highly recommended and necessary for
remote programming of the radio.
Every Viper ships from the factory with the default Ethernet IP address of 192.168.205.1 and a subnet mask of
255.255.255.0. The default subnet of the Viper consists of addresses from 192.168.205.0 to 192.168.205.255. The first and
last IP address of each subnet is reserved, no matter what the subnet size is. The first IP address in the subnet is the
Network ID. The last IP address in the subnet is the Broadcast Address.
Bridge Mode Example 1
Example one illustrates a sample Viper network. The subnet consists of IP addresses ranging from 192.168.205.0 to
192.168.205.255. The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0. This is sometimes written in shorthand notation as: 192.168.205.1/24
since the subnet mask 255.255.255.0 contains 24 ones then 8 zeros when it is converted to binary.
The first address 192.168.205.0 is reserved for the Network ID. The last address 192.168.205.255 is reserved for the
broadcast address. There are 254 valid IP addresses that may be assigned to hosts on the network.
Ethernet Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0
Network ID 192.168.205.0
Broadcast Address: 192.168.205.255
The subnet for this Viper network is comprised of devices with IP addresses ranging from 172.20.0.0 to 172.20.255.255. The
subnet mask is 255.255.0.0. The shorthand notation is: 172.20.0.1/16 since the subnet mask 255.255.0.0 contains 16 ones
then 16 zeros when it is converted to binary.
The first address 172.20.0.0 is reserved for the Network ID. The last address 172.20.255.255 is reserved for the broadcast
address. There are 65534 valid IP addresses available to be assigned to hosts on the network.
Router mode allows greater network configuration flexibility, allows the use of a variety of protocols, and also adds RF
diagnostics capability to Viper networks. Diagnostics can be retrieved through the Ethernet port of the Viper. For more
information on Viper RF Diagnostics, refer to Section 4.1.2
Router mode requires the setup of Ethernet IP and Serial IP addresses and is recommended only for users who have
IT/Network support readily available to them and/or the authorization required to make changes in to the network.
In Router mode, each Viper uses two IP addresses:
The Ethernet IP Address The RF IP Address
Every Viper is factory configured with a default Ethernet IP Address 192.168.205.1 and a unique RF IP address. This RF IP
address will have the form 10.x.y.z where x, y, and z is based on the last 6 digits of the unit’s Ethernet MAC address. The
default network is 10.0.0.0/8.
In Router mode, each Viper must have its Ethernet IP Address on a unique network and all Vipers must have their RF IP
addresses on the same network. For consistent and reliable communication, the RF network addresses should not overlap
or contain any of the IP Addresses in the Ethernet network.
Router Mode Example 1
In this example, each Viper has an Ethernet IP address on a unique network. For Vipers #1, #2, and #3, each network
connected to their local Ethernet ports has 254 valid IP addresses that may be assigned to other hosts. The network
connected to Viper #4’s local Ethernet port has 65534 valid IP addresses.
Note 1: All Vipers’ RF IP addresses are on the same network. Because they are using the 10.0.0.0/8 network, all Vipers may
use the default RF IP address programmed by the factory.
The subnet mask of the RF IP addresses has been changed to ensure that the RF IP network does not overlap any of the
Ethernet networks. In this scenario, the RF IP addresses must be manually programmed to ensure that every Viper has an
RF IP address in the network and that no RF IP address is used twice.
Ethernet Subnet Mask for all units: 255.255.255.240
RF Subnet Mask for all units: 255.255.0.0
Viper #1 Eth IP Address: 10.200.1.1 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.1 / 16
Viper #2 Eth IP Address: 10.200.1.17 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.2 / 16
Viper #3 Eth IP Address: 10.200.1.33 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.3 / 16
Viper #4 Eth IP Address: 10.200.1.49 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.4 / 16
…
Viper #177 Eth IP Address: 10.200.12.1 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.177 / 16
Viper #178 Eth IP Address: 10.200.12.17 / 28 RF IP Address: 10.0.0.178 / 16
Figure 9 – Router Mode Example 2
2.2.3 MULTISPEED NETWORKING
When using Viper SC with a Viper SC 19” rack mount base station, the user can configure the network for multispeed
operation. With the Base enabled as a ‘rate-controller’, the remote device becomes a ‘rate follower’. The rate-controller
can be configured to talk at different over-the-air data rates for each remote Viper. This allows the user to uniquely control
the data rate for each RF link in the system from the Base Station web pages. The user can program RF links with strong
signal strength to communicate at fast data rates and RF links with low signal strength can be programmed to communicate
at more robust, slower data rates. Even if data rates vary from Viper to Viper, every Viper in the network must be
programmed with the same bandwidth.
Refer to Section 4.3.1 for multispeed configuration options.
A Site Survey is a propagation study of the RF path between two points or between one point and multiple points. Signal
propagation may be affected by attenuation from obstructions such as terrain, foliage, or buildings in the transmission
path. A Site Survey is recommended for most projects to determine the optimal RF paths for each link. This is especially true
when more than one RF coverage area is required. A Site Survey will determine the best unit location for the Relay Points.
For a successful installation, careful thought must be given to selecting the site for each radio. Suitable sites should provide
the following:
Protection from direct weather exposure A source of adequate and stable primary power Suitable entrances for antenna, interface, or other cabling Antenna location with an unobstructed transmission path to all remote radios in the system
2.3.1 UNDERSTANDING RF PAT H REQUIREMENTS
Radio waves are propagated when electrical energy produced by a radio transmitter is converted into magnetic energy by
an antenna. Magnetic waves travel through space. The receiving antenna intercepts a very small amount of this magnetic
energy and converts it back into electrical energy that is amplified by the radio receiver. The energy received by the
receiver is called the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) and is measured in dBm.
A radio modem requires a minimum amount of received RF signal to operate reliably and provide adequate data
throughput. This is the radio’s receiver sensitivity. In most cases, spectrum regulators will define or limit the amount of
signal that can be transmitted and it will be noted on the FCC license. This is the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP).
Transmitted power decays with distance and other factors as it moves away from the transmitting antenna.
2.3.2 TERRAIN AND SIGNAL S TRENGTH
A line of sight path between stations is highly desirable and provides the most reliable communications link in all cases. A
line of sight path can often be achieved by mounting each station antenna on a tower or other elevated structure that
raises it high enough to clear surrounding terrain and other obstructions.
The requirement for a clear transmission path depends on the distance to be covered by the system. If the system is to
cover a limited distance, then some obstructions in the transmission path may be tolerable. For longer-range systems, any
obstruction could compromise the performance of the system, or block transmission entirely.
The signal strength (RSSI) at the receiver must exceed the receiver sensitivity by an amount known as the fade margin to
provide reliable operation under various conditions. Fade margin (expressed in dB) is the maximum tolerable reduction in
received signal strength, which still provides an acceptable signal quality. This compensates for reduced signal strength due
to multi-path, slight antenna movement or changing atmospheric conditions. CalAmp recommends a 20 dB fade margin for
most projects.
2.3.3 RADIO INTERFERENCE
Interference is possible in any radio system. However, since the Viper is designed for use in a licensed system, interference
is less likely because geographic location and existing operating frequencies are normally taken into account when
allocating frequencies.
The risk of interference can be further reduced through prudent system design and configuration. Allow adequate
separation between frequencies and radio systems. Keep the following points in mind when setting up your radio system.
1) Systems installed in lightly populated areas are least likely to encounter interference, while those in urban and
suburban areas are more likely to be affected by other devices.
2) Directional antennas should be used at the remote end of the link. They confine the transmission and reception
pattern to a comparatively narrow beam, which minimizes interference to and from stations located outside the
pattern.
3) If interference is suspected from another system, it may be helpful to use antenna polarization opposite to the
interfering system’s antennas. An additional 20 dB (or more) of attenuation to interference can be achieved by
using opposite antenna polarization.
4) Check with your CalAmp sales representative or CalAmp Technical Services for additional options. The Technical
Services group has qualified personnel to help resolve your RF issues.
2.3.4 SELECTING ANTENNA AND FEEDLINE
Viper can be used with a variety of antenna types. Viper has been tested and approved with antennas having a maximum
gain of 10 dBi. Refer to Section 1.5 for a list of tested antenna recommendations. These antennas are FCC approved for use
with Viper. Similar antenna types from other manufacturers are equally acceptable. It is important to follow the
manufacturer’s recommended installation procedures and instructions when mounting any antenna.
―Omni Directional Antenna. In general, an Omni directional antenna should be used at a master station and Relay
Points. This allows equal coverage to all of the remote locations. Omni directional antennas are designed to radiate the
RF signal in a 360-degree pattern around the antenna. Short range antennas such as folded dipoles and ground
independent whips are used to radiate the signal in a ball shaped pattern while high gain Omni antennas, such as a
collinear antenna, compress the RF radiation sphere into the horizontal plane to provide a relatively flat disc shaped
pattern that travels further because more of the energy is radiated in the horizontal plane.
―Yagi Antenna. At remote locations (not used as a Relay Point), a directional Yagi is generally recommended to minimize
interference to and from other users.
―Vertical Dipoles. Vertical dipoles are very often mounted in pairs, or sometimes groups of 3 or 4, to achieve even
coverage and to increase gain. The vertical collinear antenna usually consists of several elements stacked one above
the other to achieve similar results.
2.3.4.1 ANTENNA GAIN
Antenna gain is usually measured in comparison to a dipole. A dipole acts much like the filament of a flashlight bulb: it
radiates energy in almost all directions. One bulb like this would provide very dim room lighting. Add a reflector capable of
concentrating all the energy into a narrow angle of radiation and you have a flashlight. Within that bright spot on the wall,
the light might be a thousand times greater than it would be without the reflector. The resulting bulb-reflector combination
has a gain of 1000, or 30 dB, compared to the bulb alone. Gain can be achieved by concentrating the energy both vertically
and horizontally, as in the case of the flashlight and Yagi antenna. Gain can be also be achieved by reducing the vertical
angle of radiation, leaving the horizontal alone. In this case, the antenna will radiate equally in all horizontal directions, but
will take energy that otherwise would have gone skywards and use it to increase the horizontal radiation.
The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms. To reduce potential radio interference, the antenna type and its gain should
be chosen to ensure the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) is not more than required for successful communication.
2.3.4.2 FEEDLINE
The choice of feedline should be carefully considered. Poor quality coaxial cables should be avoided, as they will degrade
system performance for both transmission and reception. The cable should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal
loss. See Table 8 for feedline recommendations.
Table 8 – Transmission Loss (per 100 Feet)
Outside cable connections should have a weather kit applied to each connection to prevent moisture. Feedline connections
should be routinely inspected to minimize signal loss through the connection. A 3 dB loss in signal strength due to cable loss
and/or bad connections represents a 50% reduction in signal strength.
1) From the PC, select Start→ Settings→ Control Panel→ Network Connections.
2) Right-click Local Area Connection to
open the Properties box.
3) From the list, select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click Properties to open
the TCP/IP Properties box.
4) Select Use the Following IP Address
and enter:
a. IP Address: 192.168.205.100
b. Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
c. Default Gateway: Leave empty
5) Click OK to apply your changes. Some
Operating systems may require you to
reboot your computer to complete this
connection process.
An RX/TX antenna is required for basic operation. For demo units only, connect the
antenna as shown to provide stable radio communications between demo devices.
It is important to use attenuation between all demo units in the test network to reduce the
amount of signal strength in the test environment.
3 QUICKSTART
It is easy to set up a Viper network to verify basic operation and to experiment with network designs and configurations. To
eliminate unnecessary disruption of traffic on the existing network while you become familiar with Viper, you should use a
network IP subnet address different from others currently in use in your test area.
3.1 PC LAN SETUP
On a PC running MS-Windows with an existing LAN connection, connect to the Ethernet input of the Viper SC and complete
the following steps.
3.2 INSTALL THE ANTENNA
3.3 MEASURE AND CONNECT PRIMARY POWER
Primary power for Viper must be within 10-30 VDC and be capable of providing a minimum of:
10 watt supply for Tx @ 1W
40 watt supply for Tx @ 5W, or
60 watt supply for Tx @ 10 W
Viper Demo Kits contain a power connector with screw-terminals. Observe proper polarity when connecting the cables to
the Power Supply. The white wire must be connected to red wire.
3.4 CONNECT VIPER SC TO PROGRAMMING PC
Connect a PC’s Ethernet port to the LAN port using a CAT 5 Ethernet cable. Wait for the LINK LED to glow green.
3.5 CONFIGURE YOUR VIPER
Viper must be configured using the Setup Wizard. This quick start will use the Setup Wizard to configure your Viper for
bridge mode operation.
For other configuration options:
Refer to Section 4.3 for Basic Setup
Refer to Section 4.4 for Advanced Setup.
3.5.1 INITIAL INSTALLATION LOGIN
On your Internet browser address line, type the factory-default IP address: 192.168.205.1. Press Enter to open the Network
Password screen.
For initial installation, enter a User Name and the default password.
User Name: 1 to 15 characters
Default Password: ADMINISTRATOR. Password is case sensitive.
Click OK. The web interface WELCOME screen opens.
To change the password for your Viper, refer to Section 4.5.1.1.
3.5.2 SETUP WIZARD
From the navigation frame, select Setup Wizard to guide you through Viper configuration for operation. Read the onscreen
instructions carefully before proceeding.
Figure 11 – Setup Wizard Welcome
Quit to exit the Setup Wizard; Next to proceed.
STEP 1
Figure 12 – Setup Wizard (STEP 1)
Station Name: Assign a unique Station Name
IP Forwarding Mode: Select Bridge (Mode)
Relay Point: Select No
Access Point: Select No
Multi-Speed Mode: Select Disabled
IP Address: 192.168.205.1
Network Mask: 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway: 0.0.0.0
To monitor or change configuration remotely, each unit requires a unique IP Address. When configuring more than one
unit, be sure to increment IP addresses.