CommScope Node AM4 User Manual

Repeaters

Node AM4

4 slots

Network Elements

Manual

MF0121ACP

DISCLAIMER:

This document has been developed by CommScope, and is intended for the use of its
customers and customer support personnel. The information in this document is subject to
change without notice. While every effort has been made to eliminate errors, CommScope
disclaims liability for any difficulties arising from the interpretation of the information contained
herein. The information contained herein does not claim to cover all details or variations in
equipment, nor to provide for every possible incident to be met in connection with installation,
operation, or maintenance. This document describes the performance of the product under the
defined operational conditions and does not cover the performance under adverse or disturbed
conditions. Should further information be desired, or should particular problems arise which
are not covered sufficiently for the purchaser’s purposes, contact CommScope.

CommScope reserves the right to change all hardware and software characteristics without
notice.

COPYRIGHT:

© Copyright 2018 CommScope Inc. All Rights Reserved.

This document is protected by copyright. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored
in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical
photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior written permission of CommScope.

TRADEMARKS

All trademarks identified by ® or ™ are registered trademarks or trademarks, respectively, of
CommScope. Names of products mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only
and may be trademarks and / or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Andrew Wireless Systems GmbH, 30-August-2018

Page 2 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. GENERAL 7

1.1. USED ABBREVIATIONS 7

1.2. HEALTH AND SAFETY 8

1.3. PROPERTY DAMAGE WARNINGS 8

1.4. COMPLIANCE 9

1.5. ABOUT COMMSCOPE 14

1.6. INTERNATIONAL CONTACT ADDRESSES FOR CUSTOMER SUPPORT 15

2. INTRODUCTION 17

2.1. PURPOSE 17

2.2. THE NODE AM4 REPEATER 17

2.3. QUICK START CHECKLIST 18

3. INSTALLATION 19

3.1. MECHANICAL INSTALLATION 19

3.1.1. Health and Safety for Mechanical Installation 19

3.1.2. Property Damage Warnings for Mechanical Installation 19

3.1.3. Removal of Transport Protection Cover 20

3.1.4. 19 Inch Rack Mounting of the Node AM4 20

3.1.5. RF Card Installation 22

3.2. ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION 23

3.2.1. Health and Safety for Electrical Installation 23

3.2.2. Property Damage Warnings for Electrical Installation 23

3.2.3. Grounding 24

3.2.4. Interconnection Cabling 25

3.2.5. Connection of the Antenna Cables 25

3.2.6. Cleaning Procedure for RF Cable Connectors 27

3.2.7. Antenna Cable Connector Assembly 30

3.2.8. Power Connection 31

3.2.9. Connection to the Node AM 33

3.2.9.1. Setting up the Local Connection 33

3.2.9.2. Setting up the Remote Connection 33

4. FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION 34

4.1. ARCHITECTURE 34

4.2. FEATURES 34

4.2.1. Digital Channel Filters 34

4.2.2. Frequency Hopping 35

4.2.3. Filter Types 35

4.2.4. Status Information 35

4.2.5. Alarm Forwarding 36

4.3. COMPONENTS 36

4.3.1. Multiband Combiner 37

4.3.2. Digital Channel Modules (DCM) / RF Cards 39

4.3.3. Dummy Card 40

4.3.4. Power Supply Unit 40

4.3.5. User Interface Board (UI1 Board) 41

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 3

Table of Contents

4.3.5.1. External Alarms 42

4.3.5.2. Summary Alarm 44

4.3.6. User Interface 2 Board with Optional Features 46

4.3.6.1. VSWR Module Option 46

4.3.6.2. Battery Backup Option 46

4.3.6.3. Optional Modems 48

5. MAINTENANCE 52

5.1. GENERAL 52

5.2. REPLACEMENT OF COMPONENTS 52

5.2.1. Multiband Combiner 55

5.2.2. Modem / Battery 57

5.2.3. VSWR Module (Optional) 61

5.2.4. Status LED 62

5.2.5. Power Supply 63

5.2.6. RF Card Exchange / Upgrade with Additional RF Cards 66

5.2.7. Fan Unit 67

5.2.7.1. Backside Type 67

5.2.7.2. Bottom Type 68

6. ILLUSTRATIONS 71

6.1. CABINET DRAWINGS NODE AM 71

6.2. LAYOUT 71

7. SPECIFICATIONS 72

7.1. ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS 72

7.1.1. RF Card Options 72

7.1.2. Bandwidths available in UL and DL per rack (single-band cards) 74

7.1.3. Bandwidths available in UL and DL per dual-band card 75

7.2. MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS 77

7.3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY SPECIFICATION 77

7.4. FEATURES 77

7.5. MODEMS 78

7.5.1. HC25 / PHS8 / PLS8 / MC88 / TRM-5 78

7.5.2. Wireless Router M!DGE (Racom) 78

8. SPARE PARTS LIST 79

9. INDEX 81

10.LIST OF CHANGES 82

Page 4 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

Figures and Tables

FIGURES AND TABLES

figure 3-1 Grounding bolt ............................................................................................ 24

figure 3-2 Example for interconnecting cabling for a Node AM4 (combiner with three

pairs of band ports) .................................................................................. 25

figure 3-3 Front view of Node AM4 antenna connections (combiner with three pairs of

band ports) ............................................................................................... 26

figure 3-4 DC Mains connector, PIN assignment ....................................................... 31

figure 3-5 Mains connector, location .......................................................................... 31

figure 3-6 Connecting the CAT5 cable to the Node AM for the local connection....... 33

figure 4-3 Layout of a Node AM4 (combiner with three pairs of band ports), maximum

equipment ................................................................................................ 36

figure 4-4 Node AM4 3-band combiner (850-900, 1800, 2100 MHz) with three pairs of

band ports) ............................................................................................... 37

figure 4-5 Node AM4 2-band combiner (800-900 and 1800-2100 MHz) with two pairs

of band ports ............................................................................................ 38

figure 4-6 Single-band DCM, RF card, low / medium power (left) and high power with

additional DL amplifier (right) ................................................................... 39

figure 4-7 Dual band DCM, RF card (medium power) ................................................ 39

figure 4-8 Dummy card ............................................................................................... 40

figure 4-9 Power supply (DC/DC type), front and back .............................................. 40

figure 4-10 UI-board for general applications, installed.............................................. 41

figure 4-11 UI-board for general applications, top and rear view ............................... 42

figure 4-12 PIN assignment ........................................................................................ 43

figure 4-13 Schematics of external alarm clamps ...................................................... 43

figure 4-14 External cable gland ................................................................................. 44

figure 4-15 Summary alarm relay ............................................................................... 44

figure 4-16 Relay contacts, alarm condition ............................................................... 45

figure 4-17 Schematics of summary alarm clamps .................................................... 45

figure 4-18 UI2 Board kit, layout ................................................................................. 46

figure 4-19 Position of UI2 Board and BBU ................................................................ 47

figure 4-20 Modem installed, exemplary .................................................................... 48

figure 4-21 Cable from the modem to the multiband combiner, exemplary ............... 49

figure 4-22 Modem Kit HC25 / PHS8 / PLS8 Node AM, schematic wiring ................ 49

figure 4-23 Modem Kit MC88/TRM-5 Node AM, schematic wiring ............................ 50

figure 4-24 UI1 Board, position of modem RS232 connector .................................... 50

figure 4-25 SIM-card drawer ....................................................................................... 50

figure 4-26 Installation of modem RV50X................................................................... 51

figure 5-1 Installation of modem onto adapter kit ....................................................... 59

figure 5-2 VSWR module, layout ................................................................................ 61

figure 5-3 VSWR module, position of RF connectors ................................................. 61

figure 5-4 Cover of UI-card with status LED ............................................................... 62

figure 5-5 Status LED and connection cables ............................................................ 62

figure 6-1 Cabinet of a Node AM4 (fan unit backside type) ....................................... 71

figure 6-2 Layout of the Node AM4, example ............................................................. 71















MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 5

table 3-1 Description of Node AM4 antenna connectors ........................................... 26

table 3-2 AC Mains connector, PIN assignment ........................................................ 31

table 3-3 Node AM4, voltage range & external breaker ............................................. 32

table 4-1 Pin assignment of relay contacts ................................................................ 45

table 5-1 Specified torques for stainless steel screws ............................................... 53

table 5-2 Standard torques for neck-collar screws ..................................................... 53

table 5-3 Standard torques for metal cable glands .................................................... 53

table 5-4 Specified standard tolerances ..................................................................... 54

table 7-1 RF card options, EMEA, single band cards ................................................ 72

table 7-2 RF card options for USA, single band cards ............................................... 73

table 7-3 RF card options, dual band cards ............................................................... 73

table 7-4 Bandwidths available in UL and DL per rack, single-band cards ................ 74

table 7-5 Filter resources allocation (up to 5 MHz wide), example ............................ 75

table 7-6 Bandwidths available in UL and DL per dual-band card ............................. 75

table 7-7 Filter resources allocation (up to 5 MHz wide), example ............................ 76

Figures and Tables

Page 6 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

1. General

1. General

1.1. Used Abbreviations

3GPP 3rd Generation Partnership Project

BCCH Broadcast Control Channel
BTS Base Transceiver Station

CDMA Code Division Multiple Access

DAS Distributed Antenna System
DL Downlink
DoC Declaration of Conformity

EDGE Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution
ESD Electrostatic Discharge

FRU Field Replaceable Unit

GPS Global Positioning System
GSM Global System for Mobile Communication

I2C-Bus Inter-Integrated Circuit Bus (Philips)
ID No Identification Number
ISDE Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada
ISED Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada; formerly IC / Industry Canada

LAN Local Area Network
LED Light Emitting Diode
LNA Low Noise Amplifier

MCC Mobile Country Code
MIMO Multiple Input Multiple Output
MNC Mobile Network Code
MS Mobile Station

OMC Operation and Maintenance Center

PA Power Amplifier
PCS Personal Communication System
PSU Power Supply Unit

QoS Quality of Service

RED Radio Equipment Directive
Rev Revision
RF Radio Frequency
RoHS Directive on Restriction of certain Hazardous Substances
RSSI Receive Signal Strength Indication
RX Receiver

TDMA Time Division Multiple Access
TX Transmitter

UE User Equipment
UL Uplink
UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunication System
UPS Uninterruptable Power Supply

VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

WCDMA Wide Code Division Multiple Access
WEEE Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Directive)

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 7

1. General

1.2. Health and Safety

1. Danger: Electrical hazard. Danger of death or fatal injury from electrical current.

Obey all general and regional installation and safety regulations relating to work
on high voltage installations, as well as regulations covering correct use of
tools and personal protective equipment.

2. Danger: Electrical hazard. Danger of death or fatal injury from electrical current

inside the unit in operation. Before opening the unit, disconnect mains power.

3. Caution: High frequency radiation in operation. Risk of health hazards associated

with radiation from the unit’s inner conductor of the antenna port(s). Disconnect mains
before connecting or replacing antenna cables.

4. Caution: High frequency radiation in operation. Risk of health hazards associated

with radiation from the antenna(s) connected to the unit. Implement prevention
measures to avoid the possibility of close proximity to the antenna(s) while in
operation.

1.3. Property Damage Warnings

1. Attention: Due to power dissipation, the unit may reach a very high temperature. Do

not operate this equipment on or close to flammable materials. Use caution when
servicing the unit.

2. Attention: Only authorized and trained personnel are allowed to open the unit and

get access to the inside.

3. Notice: Although the unit is internally protected against overvoltage, it is strongly

recommended to ground (earth) the antenna cables close to the antenna connectors
of the unit for protection against atmospheric discharge. In areas with strong lightning,
it is strongly recommended to install additional lightning protection.

4. Notice: ESD precautions must be observed. Before commencing maintenance work,

use the available grounding (earthing) system to connect ESD protection measures.

5. Notice: Only suitably qualified personnel are allowed to work on this unit and only

after becoming familiar with all safety notices, installation, operation and maintenance
procedures contained in this manual.

6. Notice: Keep operating instructions within easy reach and make them available to all

users.

7. Notice: Read and obey all the warning labels attached to the unit. Make sure that all

warning labels are kept in a legible condition. Replace any missing or damaged labels.

Page 8 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

1. General

8. Notice: Only license holders for the respective frequency range are allowed to operate

this unit.

9. Notice: Make sure the repeater settings are correct for the intended use (refer to the

manufacturer product information) and regulatory requirements are met. Do not carry
out any modifications or fit any spare parts, which are not sold or recommended by
the manufacturer.

1.4. Compliance

1. Attention: In order to meet the Conducted Emissions requirement according to EN

61000-6-3, the following conditions must be fulfilled for units with PSU DC 680 W or
PSU DC 780 W:

a) The connecting cable to the DC voltage source must be less than 30 m long.
b) For connecting cables >30m, special material requirements must be observed,

e.g. a shielded two-wire line must be used as the input lead or a metal cable
channel/installation conduit must be used for installing the input lead.

2. Notice: For installations, which have to comply with FCC RF exposure requirements,

the antenna selection and installation must be completed in a way to ensure
compliance with those FCC requirements. Depending on the RF frequency, rated
output power, antenna gain, and the loss between the unit and antenna, the minimum
distance D to be maintained between the antenna location and human beings is
calculated according to this formula:

P

][

D



][

cm

4

mW

PD





2

]/[

cmmW

where

 P (mW) is the radiated power at the antenna, i.e. the max. rated unit output power

in addition to the antenna gain minus the loss between the unit and the antenna.

 PD (mW/cm²) is the allowed Power Density limit acc. to 47 CFR 1.1310 (B) for

general population / uncontrolled exposures which is

o F (MHz) / 1500 for frequencies from 300MHz to 1500MHz
o 1 for frequencies from 1500MHz to 100,000MHz

RF exposure compliance may need to be addressed at the time of licensing, as
required by the responsible FCC Bureau(s), including antenna co-location
requirements of 1.1307(b)(3).

For FCC compliance and meeting the UL requirement of 1 watt EIRP max. for the
AWS uplink band, the type of donor antenna must be selected in way not to exceed
the 1 watt EIRP. Selection of antenna type and execution of installation has to be done
in accordance to relevant FCC part and is in responsibility of the installer.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 9

1. General

3. Notice: For installations which have to comply with European EN50385 exposure

compliance requirements, the following Power Density limits/guidelines (mW/cm²)
according to ICNIRP are valid:

o 0.2 for frequencies from 10 MHz to 400 MHz
o F (MHz) / 2000 for frequencies from 400 MHz to 2 GHz
o 1 for frequencies from 2 GHz to 300 GHz

4. Notice: For installations which have to comply with FCC/ISED requirements:

English:

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

This device complies with Health Canada’s Safety Code. The installer of this device should
ensure that RF radiation is not emitted in excess of the Health Canada’s requirement.
Information can be obtained at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/radiation/radio_guide­lignes_direct-eng.php.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Antenna Stmt for ISED:

This device has been designated to operate with the antennas having a maximum gain of 9
dBi. Antennas having a gain greater than 9 dBi are prohibited for use with this device without
consent by ISED regulators. The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.

The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of
at least 100 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with
any other antenna or transmitter. Users and installers must be provided with antenna
installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure
compliance.

French:

Cet appareil est conforme à FCC Partie15. Son utilisation est soumise à Les deux conditions
suivantes: (1) cet appareil ne peut pas provoquer d’interférences et (2) cet appareil doit
accepter Toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un mauvais
fonctionnement du dispositif.

Cet appareil est conforme avec Santé Canada Code de sécurité 6. Le programme
d’installation de cet appareil doit s’assurer que les rayonnements RF n’est pas émis au-delà
de I’exigence de Santé Canada. Les informations peuvent être obtenues: http://www.hc­sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/radiation/radio_guide-lignes_direct-fra.php

Les changements ou modifications non expressément approuvés par la partie responsable

de la conformité pourraient annuler l’autorité de l’utilisateur à utiliser cet équipement.

Antenne Stmt pour ISDE:

Ce dispositif a été désigné pour fonctionner avec les antennes ayant un gain maximal de 9
dBi. Antennes ayant un gain plus grand que 9 dBi sont interdites pour une utilisation avec cet
appareil sans le consentement des organismes de réglementation d’ISDE. L’impédance
d’antenne requise est 50 ohms.

L’antenne (s) utilisé pour cet émetteur doit être installé pour fournir une distance de
séparation d’au moins 100 cm de toutes les personnes et ne doit pas être co-localisées ou
opérant en conjonction avec une autre antenne ou émetteur. Les utilisateurs et les
installateurs doivent être fournis avec des instructions d’installation de l’antenne et des
conditions de fonctionnement de l’émetteur pour satisfaire la conformité aux expositions RF.

Page 10 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

1. General

5. Notice: Installation of this equipment is in full responsibility of the installer, who has

also the responsibility, that cables and couplers are calculated into the maximum gain
of the antennas, so that this value, which is filed in the FCC Grant and can be
requested from the FCC data base, is not exceeded. The industrial boosters are
shipped only as a naked booster without any installation devices or antennas as it

needs for professional installation.

6. Notice: Corresponding local particularities and regulations must be observed. For

national deviations, please refer to the respective documents included in the manual

CD that is delivered with the unit.

7. Notice: The unit complies with Overvoltage Category II. It also complies with the surge

requirement according to EN 61000-4-5 (fine protection); however, installation of an
additional medium (via local supply connection) and/or coarse protection (external
surge protection) is recommended depending on the individual application in order to
avoid damage caused by overcurrent.

For Canada and US, components used to reduce the Overvoltage Category shall
comply with the requirements of IEC 61643-series. As an alternative, components
used to reduce the Overvoltage Category may comply with ANSI/IEEE C62.11, CSA
Certification Notice No. 516, CSA C22.2 No. 1, or UL 1449. Suitability of the
component for the application shall be determined for the intended installation.

8. Note: For a Class A digital device or peripheral:

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.

9. Note: For a Class B digital device or peripheral:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference.

10. Note: This unit complies with European standard EN60950-1 / EN62368-1.

11. Note: This unit must be installed in areas with restricted access for skilled employees

only.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 11

1. General

Equipment Symbols Used / Compliance

Please observe the meanings of the following symbols used in our equipment and the
compliance warnings:

Symbol Compliance Meaning / Warning

For industrial (Part 20) signal booster:
WARNING: This is NOT a CONSUMER device. It is
designed for installation by FCC LICENSEES and
QUALIFIED INSTALLERS. You MUST have an FCC
LICENSE or express consent of an FCC Licensee to
operate this device. Unauthorized use may result in
significant forfeiture penalties, including penalties in
excess of $100,000 for each continuing violation.

For (Part 90) signal booster:
WARNING: This is NOT a CONSUMER device. It is
designed for installation by FCC LICENSEES and
QUALIFIED INSTALLERS. You MUST have an FCC
LICENSE or express consent of an FCC Licensee to
operate this device. You MUST register Class B signal

--- FCC

boosters (as defined in 47 CFR 90.219) online at

www.fcc.gov/signal-boosters/registration. Unauthorized

use may result in significant forfeiture penalties, including
penalties in excess of $100,000 for each continuing
violation.

For AWS-3:
To fulfill the FCC the UL requirement of 1 Watt EIRP max.
for the AWS uplink band, the type of donor antenna must
be selected in a way not to exceed the 1 Watt
EIRP. Antenna type selection and execution of
installation, i.e. the maximum antenna height of 10m must
not be exceeded, has to be done in accordance to the
relevant FCC part and is in responsibility of the installer.
For stationary application, an operation in the UL band
1755 to 1780 MHz is strictly prohibited by FCC.

WARNING: This is NOT a CONSUMER device. It is
designed for installation by an installer approved by an
ISED licensee. You MUST have an ISED LICENCE or the
express consent of an ISED licensee to operate this
device.

--- ISED

AVERTISSEMENT: Ce produit N’EST PAS un appareil
de CONSOMMATION. Il est conçu pour être installé par
un installateur approuvé par un titulaire de licence
d’ISDE. Pour utiliser cet appareil, vous DEVEZ détenir
une LICENCE d’ISDE ou avoir obtenu le consentement
exprès d’un titulaire de licence autorisé par ISDE.

Page 12 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

1. General

Symbol Compliance Meaning / Warning

To be sold exclusively to mobile operators or authorized
installers – no harmonized frequency bands, operation

CE

requires license. Intended use: EU and EFTA countries
Indicates conformity with the RED directive 2014/53/EU

and/or RoHS directive 2011/65/EU.
Indicates conformity with the RED directive 2014/53/EU

CE

and RoHS directive 2011/65/EU certified by the notified
body no. 0700.

WEEE Recycling

Country specific information about collection and recycling arrangements per the Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive and implementing regulations is
available on CommScope’s website.

http://www.commscope.com/About-Us/Corporate-Responsibility-and-Sustainability/Environment/#recycling

Required Antenna Distances

Node AM/A+

 Antenna gain

without

cable loss [dBi]

m inches m inches

Maximum Distance

FCC ISED

DCM AF 1727E 9 .251 9.88 .386 15.19

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 13

1. General

1.5. About CommScope

CommScope is the foremost supplier of one-stop, end-to-end radio frequency (RF)
solutions. Part of the CommScope portfolio are complete solutions for wireless

infrastructure from top-of-the-tower base station antennas to cable systems and cabinets,
RF site solutions, signal distribution, and network optimization. For patents see www.cs-

pat.com.
CommScope has global engineering and manufacturing facilities. In addition, it maintains

field engineering offices throughout the world.

Andrew Wireless Systems GmbH based in Buchdorf/Germany, which is part of
CommScope, is a leading manufacturer of coverage equipment for mobile radio networks,

specializing in high performance, RF and optical repeaters. Our optical distributed
networks and RF repeater systems provide coverage and capacity solution for wireless
networks in both indoor installations and outdoor environments, e.g. tunnels, subways,
in-trains, airport buildings, stadiums, skyscrapers, shopping malls, hotels and conference

rooms.
Andrew Wireless Systems GmbH operates a quality management system in compliance

with the requirements of ISO 9001 and TL 9000. All equipment is manufactured using
highly reliable material. To maintain highest quality of the products, comprehensive
quality monitoring is conducted at all fabrication stages. Finished products leave the
factory only after a thorough final acceptance test, accompanied by a test certificate
guaranteeing optimal operation.

Hereby Andrew Wireless Systems declares that the radio equipment type Repeater is in
compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU.
The full text of the EU declaration is available at the following internet address:

www.commscope.com/collateral/Declarations_of_Conformity/.

According to the DoC, our “CE”-marked equipment can be used in all member
states of the European Union.

Note: Exceptions of and national deviations from this intended use may be

possible. To observe corresponding local particularities and
regulations, please refer to the respective documents (also in national
language) which are included in the manual CD delivered.

To make the most of this product, we recommend you carefully read the instructions in
this manual and commission the system only according to these instructions.

For technical assistance and support, please also contact the local office or CommScope

directly at one of the addresses listed in the following chapter.

Page 14 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

1. General

A

y

(

y

(

A

y

(

(

1.6. International Contact Addresses for Customer Support

Canada

CommScope Canada

Mail

Phone

Fax [phone] Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Mail

Phone

Fax + 55-15-2102-4001 Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone [phone]
Fax [phone] Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

CommScope Solutions International Inc.

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone + 27 11-719-6000
Fax [phone] Fax + 27 11-444-5393
E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

505 Consumers Road, Suite 803
Toronto M2J 4V8, Canada

[phone] (Office)
[phone]

Cell)

A

M

Caribbean & South American Region Caribbean & Central American Region

CommScope Cabos do Brasil Ltda. CommScope Mexico S.A. de C.V.

CALA Tech Support for Distributed
Coverage & Capacity Solutions (DCCS)
products:

Rua Guaporanga, 49
Praça Seca – Rio de Janeiro – RJ
ZIP: 21320-180, Brazil

[phone] (Cell)
[phone]

China, India and Rest of Asia

Andrew International Corporation

Room 915, 9/F
Chevalier Commercial Centre
8 Wang Hoi Rd
Kowloon Ba

, Hong Kong

Office)

E

R

I
C
A

S

A
P
A
C

Middle East & North Africa

Branch)

PO Box 48 78 22
Unit 3206, Floor 32,
Jumeirah Business Center 5,
Jumeirah Lakes Towers,
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Africa

&

Middle

East

ndrew LLC, A CommScope Compan

Mail

Phone [phone]

Mail

Phone [phone] (Office)

ndrew Corporation (Australia) Pty Ltd.

Mail

620 North Greenfield Parkway
Garner, NC 27529, U.S.A.

CALA Tech Support for Distributed

Coverage & Capacity Solutions
(DCCS) produc ts:

Av. Insurgentes Sur 688, Piso 6
Col. Del Valle, CP: 03100
Mexico Cit

Unit 1
153 Barry Road
Campbellfield
VIC 3061, Australia

Andrew Wire less Solutions Africa

Mail

United States

, Mexico

Australia & New Zealand

South Africa

PTY) LTD

11 Commerce Crescent West
Eastgate, Sandton
PO Box 786117
Sandton 2146
South Africa

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 15

A

g

y

y

A

y

y

)

1. General

United Kingdom

Andrew Wireless Systems UK Ltd

Unit 15, Ilex Building
Mulberry Business Park

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone + 47 32-12-3530

Fax [phone] Fax + 47 32-12-3531

E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone [phone]

Fax [phone] Fax [phone]

E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Andrew Wireless Systems (Austria) GmbH CommScope Wireless Systems AG

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone [phone]

Fax [phone] Fax [phone]

E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Mail

Phone [phone] Phone [phone]

Fax [phone] Fax [phone]

E-mail [e-mail] E-mail [e-mail]

Mail

Phone

Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail]

Fishponds Road
Wokingham Berkshire
RG41 2GY, En

Andrew Wireless Systems GmbH CommScope France

Industriering 10
86675 Buchdorf
German

land

Germany France

Mail

Mail

E

U
R
O

Austria Switzerland

Weglgasse 10
2320 Wien-Schwechat
Austria

Italy Iberia Region -Spain & Portugal

CommScope Italy S.r.l., Faenza, Ital

Via Mengolina, 20
48018 Faenza (RA)
Ital

Czech Republic

CommScope Solutions Czech Republic

C-Com, spol. s r.o

U Moruší 888
53006 Pardubice, Czech Republic

[phone] (Office)
[phone] (Mobile

P
E

Mail

ndrew España S.A. A CommScope Compan

Mail

Scandinavia

ndrew Norway (AMNW)

P.O. Box 3066
Osloveien 10
Hoenefoss 3501
Norway

Immeuble Le Lavoisier
4, Place des Vosges
92052 Courbevoie, France

Tiergartenweg 1
CH-4710 Balsthal
Switzerland

Avda. de Europa, 4 - 2ª pta.
Parque Empresarial de la Moraleja
Alcobendas, Madrid 28108, Spain

Page 16 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

2. Introduction

2. Introduction

2.1. Purpose

Wireless communication systems provide a two-way information transfer (voice and data)
between a base station and multiple mobiles within a given area.

Repeaters are used to extend the transmission range if weak signal transmissions occur
within the coverage area due to indoor applications, topological conditions or distance
from the transmitter. In the downlink path, the repeater picks up the signal from a donor
antenna of an existing cell, amplifies and re-transmits it into the required dark spot. In the
uplink direction, the repeater receives signals from mobile stations present in its coverage
area and re-transmits the signals to the corresponding base station.

In the downlink (DL), the Node AM4 picks up signals coming from the base station, filters
them, amplifies them, and retransmits them to the mobile. In the uplink (UL), it picks up
signals from the mobile, filters them, amplifies them, and retransmits them to the base
station. The Node AM4 constantly monitors the quality of the signals passing through it.

2.2. The Node AM4 Repeater

 Note: The denomination "Node AM4" says that this RF repeater is equipped with

slots for 4 RF cards / dummy cards.

 Universal multi-band, multi-service repeater for mobile applications.
 A coverage solution and a universal choice for selective transmission of interleaved

sub-bands for amplification of GSM, EDGE, TDMA, CDMA, WCDMA, HSPA, HSPA+,
and LTE signals within multiple frequency bands.

 Supports up to 4 frequency bands (with single-band RF cards only) or currently up to

7-8 frequency bands (with dual-band RF cards) in a single chassis with fully integrated
multi-band combiner and modem for remote monitoring and control.

 Software-based repeater platform enables on-the-fly filter changes and development

of new features and capabilities without expensive hardware upgrades.

 Channel and band selective automatic gain/ power control for mobile multi-operator

and public safety applications.

 Available in both medium and high power classes (for dual-band RF cards, medium

power class only) to enhance coverage in trains and ferry applications.

 Automatic Frequency Allocation enable self-acting repeater reconfigurations based on

received GPS position.

 Intuitive auto setup and help screens for easy system configuration, minimizing setup

time and reliance on expensive and bulky test equipment.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 17

 Advanced statistic reports, including inbound and outbound measurement of channel

power/pilot power/RSSI to facilitate set up and verify ongoing system operation.

 Remote alarming through SNMP or SMS using wireless data including GPS

positioning.

 Seamless integration with Andrew’s Integrated Management and Operating System

(A.I.M.O.S.).

 Rated for both indoor and outdoor use with versatile mounting option optimized for

train and ferry applications.

2. Introduction

2.3. Quick Start Checklist

Read and observe chapter 1.2.

Setting up the Node AM is quick and easy. The following step-by-step procedure
provides a quick overview for a correct setup and optimization.

a. Equipment required

 Node AM
 Donor antenna
 Coverage antenna(s) or distributed antenna system (DAS)
 Coaxial cables
 Connectors (RF, mains)
 Laptop or PC (Win 7, Win8, or Win 10) with Ethernet port and mains cable
 Data cable (CAT5, 100 MBit).

b. Information required

Make sure the following information has been verified and is at hand:

 Important on-site conditions (e. g. mains supply, available space, etc.)
 Operators to be enhanced / amplified
 Data of mandatory fields of Connectivity and Upload page

c. Procedure

1. Install the donor and coverage antennas (or leaky feeder).

2. Install the coaxial cables from the Node AM4 to the antennas.

3. Install the Node AM4 unit; see chapter 3.1 Mechanical Installation.

 Note: Take care to ground the unit correctly as instructed in

chapter 3.2.3 Grounding.

4. Connect power and the antenna coaxial cables to the Node AM4.

5. Open the small User Interface cover plate

6. Establish a connection from the laptop or computer to the Node AM4.

7. Login to the unit and use the Technician Setup page (see Software manual)
for configuration.

Page 18 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

3. Installation

3. Installation

3.1. Mechanical Installation

3.1.1. Health and Safety for Mechanical Installation

Read and observe chapter 1.2.

1. Caution: Risk of injury by the considerable weight of the unit falling. Ensure there is
adequate manpower to handle the weight of the system.

2. Caution: Risk of serious personal injury by equipment falling due to improper

installation. The installer must verify that the supporting surface will safely support the
combined load of the electronic equipment and all attached hardware and
components. Only use sufficiently dimensioned screws for mounting and make sure

the mounting material is adequate for the mounting surface.

3.1.2. Property Damage Warnings for Mechanical Installation

1. Attention: Do not install the unit in a way or at a place where the specifications

outlined in the Environmental and Safety Specifications leaflet of the supplier are not

met.

2. Notice: Due to power dissipation, the unit may reach a very high temperature.

Ensure sufficient airflow for ventilation. When mounting the Node AM4 into a train, a
temperature test in maximum configuration (i.e. 4 RF cards) must essentially be
made. A minimum air flow of 50 m³/h is required where the maximum air flow of the
Node AM4 is 220 m³/h which will be reached at an environmental temperature of
around 45°C and above. We suggest to supply the repeater at the air inlet with fresh
air and to conduct warm air at the air outlet off the Node AM4 without feedback in

order to avoid a 'thermal short-circuit'.

3. Notice: It is recommended only to use the mounting hardware delivered by the

manufacturer. If any different or additional mounting material is used, ensure that the
mounting remains as safe as the mounting designed by the manufacturer. Ensure
that the static and dynamic strengths are adequate for the environmental conditions
of the site. The mounting itself must not vibrate, swing or move in any way that might
cause damage to the unit. The specifications for stationary use of the unit must not

be exceeded.

 Note: Exceeding the specified load limits may cause the loss of warranty.

4. Notice: Only use sufficiently dimensioned screws for mounting and make sure the
mounting material is adequate for the mounting surface.

5. Notice: Observe that for M12 connectors the nominal torque is 1.0 N-m.

6. Notice: When connecting and mounting the cables (RF, mains, ...) ensure no water
can penetrate into the unit through these cables.

7. Notice: Do not operate the repeater without terminating the antenna connectors. The

antenna connectors may be terminated by connecting them to their respective

antennas or to a dummy load.

Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by CommScope, CommScope’s general limited
product warranty (http://www.commscope.com/Resources/Warranties/) shall be the
warranty governing the Node AMs, including the installation, maintenance, usage and
operation of the Node AMs.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 19

3.1.3. Removal of Transport Protection Cover

Before starting with the installation,
remove the transport protection cover
(only installed in units with bottom type

fan – see chapter 5.2.7.2). This cover is

retained by 6 screw heads at the Node’s
sides from which it can be unhinged
without having to loosen the screws.

 Note: Please keep this cover

because it is required if the Node has to
be sent back, e.g. for a repair or upgrade.

3.1.4. 19 Inch Rack Mounting of the Node AM4

1) 19’’ Rack for Node AM4 (and LMR450)

rack mounting

3. Installation

2) Mounting material:

The following components are included in

the Accessory Kit which is part of the

Node AM4 order.

 1x hex screwdriver angled size 2.5
 1x AC/DC cable AWG12 3M IP 67
 6x cage nuts BM3861
 6x M6.0x16mm raised head screws

Pozi recess

 1x data cable 3 m Cat5e red

You only need four of each screws/nuts for
mounting.

The Accessory Kit does not contain the
required guide rails. Please use the guide
rails from your original supplier of the 19’’
rack.

Page 20 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

3. Installation

3)

Hook the guide rails into the four holes
of the vertical mounting rail of the
19’’rack.

Vertical mounting rail

4)

The free space below the guide rails
has to be at least 1 HU to ensure
sufficient air circulation. The rear side
of the Node AM4 needs a distance of
the rear side of the 19’’ rack of at least
100 mm.

100 mm

1HU

5)

Hook the cage nuts from behind in the
vertical mounting rail of the 19’’ rack.
Pay attention to the distance between
the nuts. It must fit with the holes in the
Node AM4 so it can be fastened with
screws later.

6)

Cage nut mounted (side view):

7)

Cage nut & M6.0x16 mm screw assembly:

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 21

g

D8)

Put the Node AM4 on the rail guides and
fasten it with four M6.0x16 mm screws.

Then, install the RF cards as explained in
the next chapter.

3. Installation

3.1.5. RF Card Installation



Note 1: To ensure shock protection of the DC connectors and main board, the RF

cards are packed separately for transport. Installation of the RF cards is
recommended after the Node AM unit itself has been mounted according to
the following instruction:

Use the guide rails on top and bottom
to fit in the RF card smoothly.

Fasten* the four neck-collar screws
M3x16 mm tight to ensure
watertightness. For the specified
torque refer to the according table in

chapter 5.2 Replacement of

Components.

* First, just slightly tighten the screws

crosswise in order to avoid cant, and when
all four screws are positioned correctly,
fasten them ti

ht.

 Note 2: Depending on the respective frequency range, the maximum equipment of 4

RF cards is not necessarily required but all unused slots need to be

assembled with a dummy card for sufficient airflow and provided IP class.

 Note 3: It is mandatory that one RF card is installed into slot 1 as a (passive) dummy

card does not fit into slot 1. A dummy card has to be installed into slots with
no RF card to guarantee correct airflow and watertightness for the active

components. For layout please refer to figure 4 2 Exemplary layout of a Nod e
AM4, maximum equipment in chapter 4.3 Components.

 Note 4: It is recommended to disconnect the Node AM4 from mains (power-supply

line) before an RF card is mounted or dismounted. In case the Node AM4 is
not allowed to be disconnected from mains, the RF card which needs to be
replaced must be disabled via software in the Technician page before

removing it. This is to avoid possible damage when inserting the new RF card

 Note 5: Please observe that the RF cards must always be packed separately for

transport.

Page 22 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

3. Installation

3.2. Electrical Installation

3.2.1. Health and Safety for Electrical Installation

Read and observe chapter 1.2.

Danger: Electrical hazard. Danger of death or fatal injury from electrical current.
Obey all general and regional installation and safety regulations relating to
work on high voltage installations, as well as regulations covering correct use
of tools and personal protective equipment.

3.2.2. Property Damage Warnings for Electrical Installation

1. Attention: It is compulsory to ground (earth) the unit before connecting the power

supply. Grounding bolts are provided on the cabinet to connect the ground-bonding
cable.

2. Attention: If the mains connector of the unit is not easily accessible, a disconnect

device in the mains power circuit must be provided within easy reach.

3. Attention: A connection of the mains supply to a power socket requires the power

socket to be nearby the unit.

4. Attention: Before connecting or disconnecting the mains connector at the unit,

ensure that mains power supply is disconnected.

5. Attention: Make sure that an appropriate circuit breaker acting as a disconnect

device (as required by IEC/EN60950-1) and an overcurrent limiting device are
connected between mains power and the unit.

6. Attention: Incorrectly wired connections can destroy electrical and electronic
components.

7. Notice: To avoid corrosion at the connectors caused by electrochemical processes,

the material of the cable connectors must not cause a higher potential difference than

0.6 V (see electrochemical contact series).

8. Notice: Use an appropriate torque wrench for the coupling torques:

- for N-type connectors (2 N-m / 20 in lb) with 13/16 in opening,
e. g. item no. 244379 available from the CommScope e-catalog

- for 7/16 DIN-type (25 N-m / 19 ft lb) with 1 ¼ in opening,
e. g. item no. 244377 available from the CommScope e-catalog
SMA connectors have a specified torque of 60 N-cm.

Do NOT use your hands or any other tool (e.g. a pair of pliers). This might cause
damage to the connector and lead to a malfunction of the unit.

9. Notice: For unstabilized electric networks, which frequently generate spikes, the use

of a voltage limiting device is advised.

10. Notice: Observe the labels on the front panels before connecting or disconnecting

any cables.

11. Notice: Unused connectors must be closed with their protective covers to ensure

watertightness.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 23

3.2.3. Grounding

Grounding (earthing) must be carried out.
Connect an earth-bonding cable to the
grounding connection provided at the
outside of the unit. Do not use the
grounding connection to connect external
devices.

After loosening the hex nut, connect
the earth-bonding cable between the
two washers, and fasten all parts again
with the hex nut:

Hexagon nut M8 DIN934

3. Installation

Grounding
bolt

Plain washer M8 DIN125

Cabinet

GND bolt M8

Contact washer M8

Locking ring M8 DIN127

Local ground cable

Plain washer M8 DIN125

figure 3-1 Grounding bolt

 Note: The PE cables must have a minimum cross section of 16 mm

2

.

The local ground cable requires an adequate ear for the M8 GND bolt.

Page 24 MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4

3. Installation

3.2.4. Interconnection Cabling

The required cables are part of the delivery of the RF cards.
Connect the individual BTS band ports of the combiner (if equipped) to the BTS ports of
the according band of the RF cards.
Connect the individual Mobile band ports of the combiner (if equipped) to the Mobile ports
of the according band of the RF cards.
However, the antennas may also be mounted directly on the RF card connectors.

figure 3-2 Example for interconnecting cabling for a Node AM4 (combiner with three

pairs of band ports)

3.2.5. Connection of the Antenna Cables

The antenna connectors of the Node AM combiner are N female. However, the antennas
may also be mounted directly on the RF card connectors which are QN. All connectors
are located at the front of the cabinet.

An operator should refer to the documentation of the cable connector manufacturer for
best mating procedures. Furthermore, the bending radius of the antenna cables should
be maintained at all times.

There are several issues to be considered when selecting the cable and antenna types.

 In applications such as trains and ferries, it is highly recommended to use

directional antennas with good front-back-ratios (40 dB is typical) because they
improve isolation and cell-site selectivity.

 Smaller diameter cables are less expensive and easier to install but have worse

performance.

MF0121ACP_uc.docx Manual for Node AM4 Page 25