Comtech EF Data MM200 User Manual

MM200

High Speed

Microwave Modem

Installation and Operation Manual

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

Comtech EF Data • 2114 W 7th St. • Tempe, AZ 85281 • [phone] • Fax: [phone] • www.comtechefdata.com

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Warranty Policy

iii

WP

Warranty Policy

Comtech EF Data products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two
years from the date of shipment. During the warranty period, Comtech EF Data will, at its option, repair or
replace products that prove to be defective.

For equipment under warranty, the owner is responsible for freight to Comtech EF Data and all related
customs, taxes, tariffs, insurance, etc. Comtech EF Data is responsible for the freight charges only for
return of the equipment from the factory to the owner. Comtech EF Data will return the equipment by the
same method (i.e., Air, Express, Surface) as the equipment was sent to Comtech EF Data.

All equipment returned for warranty repair must have a valid RMA number issued prior to return and be
marked clearly on the return packaging. Comtech EF Data strongly recommends all equipment be returned
in its original packaging.

Comtech EF Data Corporation’s obligations under this warranty are limited to repair or replacement of failed
parts, and the return shipment to the buyer of the repaired or replaced parts.

Limitations of Warranty

The warranty does not apply to any part of a product that has been installed, altered, repaired, or misused
in any way that, in the opinion of Comtech EF Data Corporation, would affect the reliability or detracts from
the performance of any part of the product, or is damaged as the result of use in a way or with equipment
that had not been previously approved by Comtech EF Data Corporation.

The warranty does not apply to any product or parts thereof where the serial number or the serial number of
any of its parts has been altered, defaced, or removed.

The warranty does not cover damage or loss incurred in transportation of the product.
The warranty does not cover replacement or repair necessitated by loss or damage from any cause beyond

the control of Comtech EF Data Corporation.
The warranty does not cover any labor involved in the removal and or reinstallation of warranted equipment

or parts on site, or any labor required to diagnose the necessity for repair or replacement.
The warranty excludes any responsibility by Comtech EF Data Corporation for incidental or consequential

damages arising from the use of the equipment or products, or for any inability to use them either separate
from or in combination with any other equipment or products.

A fixed charge established for each product will be imposed for all equipment returned for warranty repair
where Comtech EF Data Corporation cannot identify the cause of the reported failure.

Exclusive Remedies

Comtech EF Data Corporation’s warranty, as stated is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed, implied, or
statutory, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. The buyer shall pass on to
any purchaser, lessee, or other user of Comtech EF Data Corporation’s products, the aforementioned
warranty, and shall indemnify and hold harmless Comtech EF Data Corporation from any claims or liability
of such purchaser, lessee, or user based upon allegations that the buyer, its agents, or employees have
made additional warranties or representations as to product preference or use.

The remedies provided herein are the buyer’s sole and exclusive remedies. Comtech EF Data shall not be
liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, whether based on contract, tort,
or any other legal theory.

Warranty Repair Return Procedure

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

Warranty Policy MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

iv

Before a warranty repair can be accomplished, a Repair Authorization must be received. It is at this time
that Comtech EF Data will authorize the product or part to be returned to the Comtech EF Data facility or if
field repair will be accomplished. The Repair Authorization may be requested in writing or by calling:

Comtech EF Data Corporation

2114 W 7th Street.
Tempe, Arizona 85281 (USA)
ATTN: Customer Support
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Any product returned to Comtech EF Data for examination must be sent prepaid via the means of
transportation indicated as acceptable to Comtech EF Data. Return Authorization Number must be clearly
marked on the shipping label. Returned products or parts should be carefully packaged in the original
container, if possible, and unless otherwise indicated, shipped to the above address.

Non-Warranty Repair

When a product is returned for any reason, Customer and its shipping agency shall be responsible for all
damage resulting from improper packing and handling, and for loss in transit, not withstanding any defect or
nonconformity in the product. By returning a product, the owner grants Comtech EF Data permission to
open and disassemble the product as required for evaluation. In all cases, Comtech EF Data has sole
responsibility for determining the cause and nature of failure, and Comtech EF Data’s determination with
regard thereto shall be final.

iv TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Preface

P

Preface

This manual provides installation and operation information for the Radyne RCS20 M:N
Redundancy Switch. This is a technical document intended for use by engineers, technicians,
and operators responsible for the operation and maintenance of the RCS20.

Conventions

Whenever the information within this manual instructs the operator to press a pushbutton switch
or keypad key on the Front Panel, the pushbutton or key label will be shown in "less than" (<) and
"greater than" (>) brackets. For example, the Reset Alarms Pushbutton will be shown as
<RESET ALARMS>, while a command that calls for the entry of a ‘7’ followed by ‘ ENTER’ Key will
be represented as <7,ENTER>.

Cautions and Warnings

A caution icon indicates a hazardous situation that if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury. Caution may also be used to indicate other unsafe practices or risks of property damage.

A warning icon indicates a potentially hazardous situation that if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.

A note icon identifies information for the proper operation of your equipment, including helpful
hints, shortcuts, or important reminders.

Trademarks

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 v

Preface MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

vi

Level

3.3

12-11-01

Revised Electrical Interfaces Section.

Product names mentioned in this manual may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies and are hereby acknowledged.

Copyright

2008, Comtech EF Data This manual is proprietary to Comtech EF Data and is intended for the
exclusive use of Comtech EF Data’s customers. No part of this document may in whole or in part,
be copied, reproduced, distributed, translated or reduced to any electronic or magnetic storage
medium without the express written consent of a duly authorized officer of Comtech EF Data

Disclaimer

This manual has been thoroughly reviewed for accuracy. All statements, technical information,
and recommendations contained herein and in any guides or related documents are believed
reliable, but the accuracy and completeness thereof are not guaranteed or warranted, and they
are not intended to be, nor should they be understood to be, representations or warranties
concerning the products described. Comtech EF Data assumes no responsibility for use of any
circuitry other than the circuitry employed in Comtech EF Data systems and equipment.
Furthermore, since Comtech EF Data is constantly improving its products, reserves the right to
make changes in the specifications of products, or in this manual at any time without notice and
without obligation to notify any person of such changes.

Record of Revisions

Revision

Date Reason for Change

1.0 6-16-00 New Release.

2.0 4-19-01 Revised and reformatted manual.

3.0 5-4-01 Revised User Interfaces Section.

3.1 6-4-01 Revised Electrical Interfaces Section.

3.2 10-9-01 Revised the Detailed Command Descriptions Section.

3.4 1-8-02 Added MIB.

4.0 3-27-03 Revised and Reformatted Technical Manual.

4.1 12-18-06 Revised and Reformatted Technical Manual

Comments or Suggestions Concerning this Ma nual

Comments or suggestions regarding the content and design of this manual are appreciated.
To submit comments, please contact the Comtech EF Data Corporation Customer Service
Department.

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Table of Contents

ToC

Table of Contents

Warranty Policy ............................................................................................................ iii

Preface ........................................................................................................................... v

Conventions ___________________________________________________________ v
Cautions and Warning s __________________________________________________ v
Trademarks ___________________________________________________________ v
Copyright ____________________________________________________________ vi
Record of Revisions ____________________________________________________ vi
Comments or Suggestions Concerning this Manual ___________________________ vi

Section 1 - Introduction ............................................................................................. 1-1

1.0 Description ______________________________________________________ 1-1

Section 2 - Installation ............................................................................................... 2-1

2.1 Unpacking _______________________________________________________ 2-1

2.2 Removal and Assembly ____________________________________________ 2-2

2.3 Mounting Considerations ___________________________________________ 2-2

2.4 Modem Checkout _________________________________________________ 2-2

2.4.1 Initial Power-Up _________________________________________________ 2-3

Section 3 - Theory of Operation ................................................................................ 3-1

3.0 Theory of Operation _______________________________________________ 3-1

3.1 Signal Flow ______________________________________________________ 3-1

3.1.1 Interfaces ______________________________________________________ 3-1

3.1.2 Data Mux ______________________________________________________ 3-2

3.1.3 RF Modulators __________________________________________________ 3-3

3.1.4 RF Demodulators ________________________________________________ 3-3

3.1.5 Diversity (Option) ________________________________________________ 3-3

3.2 Start-Up Procedures _______________________________________________ 3-3

3.2.1 Initial Start-up Procedure __________________________________________ 3-3

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 vii

Table of Contents MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

viii

3.2.2 Sample Setups __________________________________________________ 3-4

3.2.2.1 Transmitting G.703 T3 From Interface Slot 3 (ot her int er faces disabled) ___ 3-4

3.2.2.2 Transmitting STM-1 From Interface Slot 1 (other interfaces disabled) _____ 3-4

3.2.3 Hardware Reset _________________________________________________ 3-4

3.3 Calculating 3 dB Bandwidth of MM200 Modulated Carrier __________________ 3-5

3.4 Input Level ______________________________________________________ 3-5

Section 4 - User Interfaces ....................................................................................... 4-1

4.0 User Interfaces ___________________________________________________ 4-1

4.1 Front Panel User Interface __________________________________________ 4-1

4.1.1 Front Panel LCD Display __________________________________________ 4-2

4.1.2 Cursor Control Arrows ____________________________________________ 4-2

4.1.3 Front Panel Keypad ______________________________________________ 4-2

4.1.4 Front Panel LED Indicators ________________________________________ 4-3

4.1.5 Parameter Setup ________________________________________________ 4-3

4.2 Front Panel Control Screen Menus ____________________________________ 4-4

4.3 Level 2 Menu Screens _____________________________________________ 4-4

4.3.1 Main Menu Screens ______________________________________________ 4-4

4.3.2 MODULATOR (menu) ____________________________________________ 4-5

4.3.3 DEMODULATOR (menu) __________________________________________ 4-6

4.3.4 REPEATER (Menu) ______________________________________________ 4-8

4.3.4 APC (Menu) ____________________________________________________ 4-8

4.3.5 TX INTERFACE (Menu) ___________________________________________ 4-9

4.3.6 RX INTERFACE (Menu) _________________________________________ 4-10

4.4 All Level Menu Screens ___________________________________________ 4-12

4.4.1 Main Menu Screens _____________________________________________ 4-12

4.4.2 MODULATOR (menu) ___________________________________________ 4-12

4.4.3 DEMODULATOR (menu) _________________________________________ 4-13

4.4.4 REPEATER (menu) _____________________________________________ 4-17

4.3.4 APC (Menu) ___________________________________________________ 4-17

4.4.5 TX INTERFACE (Menu) __________________________________________ 4-17

4.4.6 RX INTERFACE (Menu) _________________________________________ 4-20

4.4.7 MONITOR (Menu) ______________________________________________ 4-21

4.4.8 ALARMS (Menu) _______________________________________________ 4-24

4.4.8.1 Active Alarms ________________________________________________ 4-24

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Table of Contents

ix

4.4.8.2 Latched Alarms _______________________________________________ 4-28

4.4.8.3 Clear Alarms _________________________________________________ 4-28

4.4.9 SYSTEM (Menu) _______________________________________________ 4-28

4.4.10 TEST (Menu) _________________________________________________ 4-30

4.5 Remote Port User Interface ________________________________________ 4-30

4.5.1 Protocol Structure ______________________________________________ 4-31

4.5.2 Protocol Wrapper _______________________________________________ 4-31

4.5.3 Frame Description and Bus Handshaking ____________________________ 4-33

4.5.4 Global Response Operational Codes _______________________________ 4-34

4.5.5 Collision Avoidance _____________________________________________ 4-36

4.5.6 Software Compatibility ___________________________________________ 4-37

4.5.7 RLLP Summary ________________________________________________ 4-38

4.6 Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) _________________________ 4-38

4.7 The Management Inform at ion Base ( MIB) _____________________________ 4-38

4.8 Directory _____________________________________________________ 4-38

4.9 Mgmt ______________________________________________________ 4-39

4.10 Experimental _________________________________________________ 4-39

4.11 Private _____________________________________________________ 4-39

4.12 Terminal Port User Interface _______________________________________ 4-40

4.13 Modem Configuration ____________________________________________ 4-40

4.14 Connecting the Terminal __________________________________________ 4-40

4.15 SNMP Option __________________________________________________ 4-42

4.16 Network Configuration ___________________________________________ 4-42

4.17 Terminal Screens _______________________________________________ 4-42

4.18 Logging on and Passwords________________________________________ 4-43

4.19 Exiting SNMP Configuration _______________________________________ 4-44

4.20 Logging On ____________________________________________________ 4-44

4.21 Changing the Logon Password _____________________________________ 4-44

4.22 Logging Of f ____________________________________________________ 4-45

4.23 Changing Your Authentication Password _____________________________ 4-45

4.24 Changing Your Privacy Password __________________________________ 4-45

4.25 Modem MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Ethernet Address _________ 4-46

4.26 Modem IP Address ______________________________________________ 4-46

4.27 Server Ethernet Address __________________________________________ 4-46

4.28 Server IP Address _______________________________________________ 4-46

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

Table of Contents MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

x

4.29 Server Host Name ______________________________________________ 4-46

4.30 Router IP Address _______________________________________________ 4-47

4.31 IP Address Mask ________________________________________________ 4-47

4.32 Boot Mode (Optional) ____________________________________________ 4-47

4.33 Community ____________________________________________________ 4-47

4.34 Trap Type and Trap Hosts ________________________________________ 4-47

4.35 Trace Mode ____________________________________________________ 4-48

4.36 SNMP V1 & 2 Access View________________________________________ 4-48

4.37 Key Generation Mode ____________________________________________ 4-48

4.38 Context Engine ID _______________________________________________ 4-48

4.41 Connect the Ethernet Cable _______________________________________ 4-49

4.42 Ping Program __________________________________________________ 4-50

4.43 SNMP Test ____________________________________________________ 4-51

Section 5 - Electrical Int erfaces ................................................................................ 5-1

5.0 MM200 Connections _______________________________________________ 5-1

5.1 Power __________________________________________________________ 5-1

5.1.1 AC Power ______________________________________________________ 5-1

5.1.2 DC Power ______________________________________________________ 5-1

5.2 Alarm Port _______________________________________________________ 5-2

5.3 Terminal Port (I/O ) ________________________________________________ 5-3

5.4 Remote Port (I/O) _________________________________________________ 5-3

5.4.1 Remote Port Cabling for a St andard Computer RS-232 COM Port _________ 5-4

5.5 Ethernet Interf ace ( I/O) _____________________________________________ 5-5

5.6 TX RF Port (Output ) _______________________________________________ 5-5

5.7 RX RF Port (Input) ________________________________________________ 5-5

5.8 External Reference (Input) __________________________________________ 5-5

5.9 Interface Slots 1 T hr ough 4 _________________________________________ 5-6

5.10 High-Speed G.703/DS3, E3, STS-1 Rear Panel Interface _________________ 5-6

5.10.1 G.703 OUT Female BNC Connector (J15) ___________________________ 5-6

5.10.2 CLK IN Female BNC Connector (J16) _______________________________ 5-6

5.10.3 G.703 IN Female BNC Connector (J17) _____________________________ 5-6

5.11 Overhead/DS0 Audio Rear Panel Interface ____________________________ 5-7

5.11.1 DS01 15-Pin Female HD ‘D’ Sub Connector (J7) ______________________ 5-8

5.11.2 DS02 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J8) ________________________ 5-8

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Table of Contents

xi

5.11.3 DS03 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J9) ________________________ 5-8

5.11.4 DS04 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J10) _______________________ 5-8

5.11.5 DS05 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J11) _______________________ 5-8

5.11.6 DS06 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J12) _______________________ 5-8

5.11.7 DS07 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J13) _______________________ 5-9

5.11.8 DS08 15-pin female HD ‘D’ sub connector (J14) _______________________ 5-9

5.12 Optical/OC3 STM-1 Rear Panel Interface _____________________________ 5-9

5.12.1 ELEC OUT Female BNC Connector (J15) ___________________________ 5-9

5.12.2 ELEC IN Female BNC Connector (J16)______________________________ 5-9

5.12.3 OPTICAL IN SC Connector (J17) __________________________________ 5-9

5.12.4 Optical Out SC Connector (J18) ___________________________________ 5-9

5.12.5 REF OUT Female BNC Connector (Optional) (J19) ____________________ 5-9

5.12.6 REF IN Female BNC Connector (Optional) (J20) ______________________ 5-9

5.13 ASI Rear Panel Interface _________________________________________ 5-10

5.13.1 ASI OUT Female BNC Connector (J15) ____________________________ 5-10

5.13.2 ASI IN Female BNC Connector (J16) ______________________________ 5-10

5.14 Wayside G.703/ T1, E1 Rear Panel Interface __________________________ 5-10

5.14.1 IN Female BNC Connector (J15) __________________________________ 5-10

5.14.2 OUT Female BNC Connector (J16) ________________________________ 5-11

5.14.3 BALANCED 15-pin female ‘D’ sub connector ________________________ 5-11

5.14.4 CLK OUT (J17) _______________________________________________ 5-11

5.14.5 CLK IN Female BNC Connector (J18) ______________________________ 5-11

5.15 Parallel RS-422/DVB, M2P ________________________________________ 5-11

5.15.1 PARALLEL TX 25-pin female ‘D’ sub connector ( J15) _________________ 5-12

5.15.2 PARALLEL RX 25-pin female ‘D’ sub connector (J16) _________________ 5-13

5.15.3 CLK IN (J17) _________________________________________________ 5-13

5.15.4 CLK IN Female BNC Connector (J18) ______________________________ 5-13

5.16 Parallel LVDS/DVB, M2P _________________________________________ 5-14

5.16.1 PARALLEL TX 25-pin female ‘D’ sub connector ( J15) _________________ 5-14

5.16.2 PARALLEL RX 25-pin female ‘D’ sub connector (J16) _________________ 5-15

5.16.3 CLK IN (J17) _________________________________________________ 5-15

5.16.4 CLK IN Female BNC Connector (J18) ______________________________ 5-16

5.17 SMPTE/310M Rear Panel Interface _________________________________ 5-16

5.17.1 EXT CLK (J15) ________________________________________________ 5-16

5.17.2 SMPTE IN Female BNC Connector (J16) ___________________________ 5-16

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

Table of Contents MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

xii

Section 6 - Maintenance and Troubleshooting ........................................................ 6-2

6.0 Periodic Maintenance ______________________________________________ 6-2

6.1 Maintenance Philosophy ____________________________________________ 6-2

6.2 Customer Service _________________________________________________ 6-2

6.3 Troubleshooting __________________________________________________ 6-3

Section 7 - Technical Specifications ........................................................................ 7-1

7.0 Introduction ______________________________________________________ 7-1

7.1 Specifications ____________________________________________________ 7-1

7.2 Options _________________________________________________________ 7-1

7.3 Optional Data Interfaces ____________________________________________ 7-2

7.4 Optional Overhead Interfaces ________________________________________ 7-2

Appendix A - Remote RLLP ...................................................................................... A-1

A.1 MM200 Opcode Command Set ______________________________________ A-1
A.2 Modem Command Set _____________________________________________ A-1
A.3 Detailed Command Descriptions _____________________________________ A-4

Appendix B - SNMP MIB ........................................................................................... B-1

Glossary ..................................................................................................................... G-1

TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Introduction

1

Introduction

1.0 Description

The Radyne MM200 Microwave Modem is a high-speed, multi data rate Modulator/Demodulator.
It is a single rack digital modem for point-to-point or point-to-multipoint communication links and is
ideal for microwave link upgrades or retrofits.

The MM200 utilizes a proprietary matrix modulation format that provides maximum bandwidth
efficiency and data rates up to 176 Mbps (200 Mbps optional). Increased performance is
achieved in multi-path or fading environments over conventional QAM modulation.

The MM200 offers a large variety of interfaces such as T3, E3, STS1, DVB SPI, DVB ASI,
OC3/STM-1, T1, E1, E2, 10Base T, and others.

Figure 1-1. MM200 Microwave Modem

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 1-1

Introduction MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

1-2 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Installation

2

Installation

2.0 Installation Requirements

The MM200 is designed to be installed within any standard 19-inch equipment cabinet or rack,
and requires 2 rack unit (RU) mounting spaces (3.5 inches) vertically and 19 inches of depth.
Including cabling, a minimum of 20 inches of rack depth is required. The rear panel of the MM200
is designed to have power enter from the left and IF cabling enter from the right when viewed from
the rear of the unit. Data and control cabling can enter from either side although they are closer to
the center. The unit can be placed on a table or suitable surface if required.

There are no user-serviceable parts or configuration settings located
inside the MM200 chassis. There is a pot ential shock haz ard internally at
the power supply module. DO NOT open the MM200
circumstances.

Before initially applying power to the unit, it is a good idea to disconnect
the transmit output from the operating station equipment. This is
especially true if the current MM200 configuration settings are unknown,
where incorrect setting could disrupt exis ting communications traffic.

The MM200 contains a Lithium Battery. DANGER OF EXPLOSION exists if
the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or
equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used
batteries in accordance with manufacturers instructions

chassis under any

2.1 Unpacking

The MM200 Modem was caref ully packaged to avoid dam age and should arrive com plete with the
following items for proper installation:

 MM200 Unit
 Prime power connection
 Installation and Operation Manual

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 2-1

Installation MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

2.2 Removal and Assembly

If using a knife or cutting blade to open the carton, exercise caution to ensure that the blade does
not extend into the carton, but only cuts the tape holding the carton closed. Carefully unpack the
unit and ensure that all of the above items are in the carton. If the Primary AC power available at
the installation site requires a different power cord/AC connector, then arrangements to receive
the proper device will be necessary before proceeding with the installation.

The MM200 modem is shipped fully assembled and does not require removal of the covers for
any purpose in installation. Should the power cable AC connector be of the wrong type for the
installation, either the cable or the power connector end should be replaced. The power supply
itself is designed for universal application using from 100 to 240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 1A or 37 – 75
VDC @ 4A.

2.3 Mounting Considerations

When mounted in an equipment rack, adequate ventilation must be provided. The MM200 draws
air in from the left hand side and exhausts from the right rear and side (as viewed from the front).
Do not install the unit in closed locations where this airflow will be restricted. The exhaust air must
be allowed to vent away from the unit and not be allowed to flow back into the air input. The

ambient temperature in the rack should be between 0° and 50° C, and held constant for best
equipment operation. The air available to the rack should be clean and relatively dry

Do not mount the MM200 in an unprotected outdoor location where there is direct contact with
rain, snow, wind or sun. The MM200 is designed for indoor applications only.

The only tools required for rack mounting the MM200
an appropriate screwdriver. Rack mount brackets are an integral part of the cast front bezel of the
unit and are not removable.

Shielded cables with the shield terminated to the conductive backshells are required in order to
meet EMC directives. Cables with insulation flammability ratings of 94 VO or better are required
in order to meet low voltage directives.

is a set of four rack mounting screws and

2.4 Modem Checkout

The following descriptions assume that the MM200 is installed in a suitable location with prime
power and supporting equipment available.

2-2 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Installation

2.4.1 Initial Power-Up

Before initial power up of the MM200, it is a good idea to disconnect the
transmit output from the operating ground station equipment. This is
especially true if the current modem co nfiguration settings are unknown,
where incorrect setting could disrupt existing communications traffic.
New units from the factory are normally shipped in a default
configuration which includes setting the transmit carrier off.

Turn the unit ‘ON’ by applying power (DC versions), or placing the rear panel switch (above the
power entry connector) to the ‘ON’ position (AC versions). Upon initial and subsequent power­ups, the MM200 microprocessor will test itself and several of its components before beginning its
main monitor/control program. These power-up diagnostics show no results if successful.

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 2-3

Installation MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

2-2 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Theory of Operation

3

Theory of Operation

3.0 Theory of Operation

The MM200 Microwave Modem is a highly flexible platform for the transmission of high-speed
data across links such as microwave and cable. The 2 RU-rack mount unit can be supplied in
many different configurations and was designed to be expanded in the field to meet new and
changing operating conditions. Available in Duplex and Simplex Configurations, the unit can be
optioned with up to four industry standard interfaces in any combination, Diversity (requires two
chassis), maximum rates of 50, 100, 150, 175, and 200 Mbps, and world standard AC or DC
prime power.

The fully configured MM200 includes a data multiplexer/demultiplexer for interfacing to multiple
data sources, a modulator, and a demodulator. The MM200 is capable of data rates up to
200 Mbps at any of six different Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) schemes including
QAM256 (optional). The unique modulation/demodulation scheme uses multiple carriers to slow
the modulated symbol rate to up to four times slower than conventional modems. The lower
symbol rate is inherently more resilient to the multipath environment common to microwave
systems. An extremely powerful equalizer, working at the lower symbol rate, removes multipath
and is coupled with Reed Solomon Noise Reduction System to form a robust, reliable
communications link. Additionally, two receivers can be optioned with diversity cards. The two
chassis are then coupled via a high-speed data link to allow the automatic hitless switching to the
receiver with no errors. This feature can be used for standard path redundancy on long links or to
improve the capacity (via an increase in modulation mode) of an existing link. Refer to Figure 3-1
for operational block diagram.

3.1 Signal Flow

3.1.1 Interfaces

The transmit customer data interface consists of four “slots”. Each slot can accept one of a range
of industry standard interface cards including:

 DVB ASI (1 to 160 Mbps)
 DVB SPI (1 to 160 Mbps)
 G.703 E3/DS3/STS-1
 G.703 T1/E1
 G.703 E2
 OC3/STM-1 optical/electrical
 Orderwire, 8 synchronous, 64 Kbps, RS-422 (one channel can be switched to ADPCM)
 10Base T Ethernet

Data between interface slots can be Asynchronous and in any combination. Careful attention to
the maximum data rate and its relationship to bandwidth are required for the correct operating
conditions.

Some Interface Cards are capable of multiple standards such as the DS3,E3 or STS-1. These
cards can operate in any one of the standards listed. Changing to another standard simply
requires a change in the front panel configuration.

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 3-1

Theory of Operation MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

Figure 3-1. MM200 Microwave Modem Block Diagram

3.1.2 Data Muxiplexer

The multiplexer works on a constant output data rate. This data rate is directly related to the
symbol rate used by the modulators. The Symbol Rate is directly related to Bandwidth of the IF
carrier. The output of the multiplexer contains Reed Solomon overhead and mux/demux
overhead. The ratio between multiplexer input data and output data is 184/204. To
accommodate changes in the data rate supplied by the customer and the constant output of the
mux, the gaps are filled with null data that is later removed by the demux. Therefore, the
customer data is completely variable up to the point where the mux overflows. Variable interfaces
like the DVB ASI can take full advantage of this feature.

The single stream output of the mux is sent to a digital splitter that can have between one and
four outputs, which corresponds to the number of RF modulators installed.

3-2 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Theory of Operation

Data is always evenly divided between the number of channels selected i.e. each RF modulator
runs at the same rate.

3.1.3 RF Modulators

The number of active modulators (up to the maximum number installed in the chassis, from 1 to

4) is determined by front panel selection in which case any unused modulator is “parked” or
turned off. Each modulator is capable of modulating a carrier between 50 and 90 MHz with QAM
4,16,32,64,128 or 256 (optional). The range of symbol rates per modulator is 3.5 to 7 Msps giving
a total range of 3.5 to 28 Msps. The four outputs are combined to a single IF output. Output
power is adjusted by a 1 dB step attenuator.

3.1.4 RF Demodulators

The RF Demodulators mirror the RF Modulators in their specifications. The receive signal is split
four ways each going to an independent demodulator. Again, the number of demodulators (up to
the maximum number installed in the chassis, from 1 to 4) can be set from the front panel. The
Modulator and Demodulator setup must be identical for the signal to pass.

Each demodulator has a powerful digital equalizer to remove multipath and other signal
degradations.

The Demux removes the overhead and sends the appropriate data to the appropriate interface as
identified by its unique PID (Packet Identifier). The Tx interface must match the Rx interface.

3.1.5 Diversity (Option)

When the system requires Diversity such as Space Diversity or Frequency Diversity, the receiving
site must have two independent receive signals. Each of the two MM200 chassis are required to
be optioned with a minimum of identical receivers (number of RF channels) and a diversity card.
Only one chassis needs to be optioned with interfaces if no equipment redundancy is required.
The transmit side of both chassis are completely independent from diversity operation and can
therefore be optioned in any configuration.

Data from the demux is sent to the diversity card where it is buffered and aligned in time with the
signal received from the other diversity card. Both these signals appear at the hitless switch.
Error information from all receivers is sent to the hitless switch driver where a decision is made as
to which stream to output. The output will be error-free providing one of the demodulator chassis
is receiving an error-free signal. If both chassis are receiving errored signals, the output can still
be error-free providing errors occur in different Reed-Solomon packets.

Both diversity cards send and receive data to and from the other unit, so both chassis will output
the best data stream of the two units.

3.2 Start-Up Procedures

3.2.1 Initial Start-up Procedure

1. Turn the unit on.

2. Set Tx Power to ‘–10 dBm’.

3. Set the Demodulator Attenuation to ‘20 dB’.

4. Under the Mod/Demod Test, set PRBS to ‘–2e23M’.

5. Connect IF Out to IF In via a 75Ω Coax Cable.

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 3-3

Theory of Operation MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

6. Modem should lock with SNRs > 32 dB.

3.2.2 Sample Setups

3.2.2.1 Transmitting G.703 T3 From Interface Slot 3 (other interfaces
disabled) Sample Setup

1. In System, User Mode, set to ‘Level 2’.

2. In Modulator, set the frequency to ’70 MHz’.

3. In Tx Interface 3, set Control to ‘Enable’ (ensure all other interfaces are disabled).

4. Set Interface to ‘T3’.

5. Set Data Inv to ‘Norm’.

6. Set Bandwidth in the Modulator Menu to ‘30,000,000’.

7. Set the Demodulator to a frequency of ‘70 MHz’.

8. In Rx Interface 3, set Control to ‘Enable’ (ensure all other interfaces are disabled).

9. Set Interface to ‘T3’.

10. Set Data Inv to ‘Norm’.

11. Set the bandwidth in the Demodulator Menu to ‘30,000,000’.

3.2.2.2 Transmitting STM-1 From Interface Slot 1 (other interfaces
disabled) Sample Setup

1. In System, User Mode, set to ‘Level 2’.

2. In Modulator, set the frequency to ’70 MHz’.

3. In Tx Interface 1, set Control to ‘Enable’ (ensure all other interfaces are disabled).

4. Set Interface to ‘STM-1’.

5. Set Data Inv to ‘Norm’.

6. Set the bandwidth in the Modulator Menu to ‘30,000,000’.

7. Set the Demodulator to a frequency of 70 MHz.

8. In Rx Interface 1, set Control to ‘Enable’ (ensure all other interfaces are disabled).

9. Set Interface to ‘STM-1’.

10. Set Data Inv to ‘Norm’.

11. Set the Bandwidth in the Demodulator Menu to ‘30,000,000’.

3.2.3 Hardware Reset

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MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem Theory of Operation

This section is not yet complete.

3.3 Calculating 3dB Bandwidth of MM200 Modulated Carrier

1. Find the combined interface data rate:

DR

= Interface 1 Data Rate + Interface 2 Data Rate + Interface 3 Data Rate + Interface 4

C

Data Rate

2. Find the Total Data Rate plus R/S mux overhead, and guard band overhead:

DR

= DRC x (204/184) x 1.001

T

3. Find Channel Baud Rate:

BR

= DRT /(QAM x NC)

C

Where N

= number of channels (one to four)

C

and QAM = 2 for 4 QAM
4 for 16 QAM
5 for 32 QAM
6 for 64 QAM
7 for 128 QAM
8 for 256 QAM

4. Select Channel Spacing:

C

= from 1.1 to 1.5 times channel baud rate.

S

This number is usually 1.25 but may be set anywhere within the range of 1.1 to 1.5.

5. Total 3 dB bandwidth = BR

x CS x (NC – 1) + BR

C

C

3.4 Input Level

Each IF channel has an independent dynamic range of 15 - 20 dB. This allows greater
performance during frequency selective fades. For normal operation, the MM200 was designed
to work with radios that have automatic gain control (AGC). The radio AGC will generally use the
average power of all the IF channels to set its power unlike the MM200 that independently AGCs
on each IF channel. When setting up the input level to the MM200, use the following procedure.

1. If the Radio has a IF output level setting, adjust to the manufactures optimum point. If

there is none, set between 0 and –10 dBm.

2. Verify that the input to the radio is not experiencing frequency selective fading or a deep

flat fade.

3. Set the MM200 Demodulator attenuator (in the Demod menu) so that the AGC level

display reads approximately 340 (in the Monitor, Demodulator Menu). When multiple IF
channels exist there will be differences in AGC from channel to channel. These should
only be of concern if any channel exceeds 300 or is lower than 400. The AGC display

displays the value the M&C has assigned to the channel.
This display is un-calibrated and has a useful range of approximately 300 to 655. The number is
inversely proportional to the incoming signal (a higher number indicates a lower incoming signal).

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 3-5

Theory of Operation MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

3-6 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem User Interfaces

4

User Interfaces

4.0 User Interfaces

There are four user interfaces available for the MM200. These are:

 Front Panel Control.

 Command Interface Control.

 Terminal Interface

 Ethernet SNMP

Any of these methods may be used separately or together to monitor and control the MM200.
Each of these interfaces and their respective methods are discussed separately below.

4.1 Front Panel User Interface

The front panel of the MM200 allows for complete monitor and control (M&C) of all parameters
and functions via a keypad, LCD display and status LEDs.

The front panel layout is shown in Figure 4−1, showing the location and labeling of the front panel.
The front panel is divided into four functional areas: the Front Panel LCD Display, the Cursor
Control Arrows, the Numeric Keypad, and the Front Panel LED Indicators, each described below
in Table 4-1.

Figure 4-1. MM200 Front Panel Controls and Indicators

Table 4-1

Item No. Description Function

1 Front Panel LCD Display Displays MM200 Operating parameters and

Configuration data.

2 Cursor Control Arrows Controls the up, down, left, and right movement

of the cursor in the Front Panel LCD Display.

3 Numeric Keypad Allows entry of numeric data, and the Clear and

Enter function keys.

4 Front Panel LED

Indicators

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 4-1

Refer to Section 4.1.2 for an itemized description
of these LEDs.

User Interfaces MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

↑ ↓ ← →

←

→

4.1.1 Front Panel LCD Display

The front panel display is a 2 line by 16-character LCD display. The display is lighted and the
brightness can be set to increase when the front panel is currently in use. The LCD display
automatically dims after a period of inactivity. The display has two distinct areas showing current
information. The upper area shows the current parameter being monitored, such as ‘Frequency’
or ‘Data Rate’. The lower line shows the current value of that parameter. The LCD display is a
single entry window into the large matrix of parameters that can be monitored and set from the
front panel.

4.1.2 Cursor Control Arrows

The ‘Cursor’ or ’Arrow’ Keys (↑), (↓), (→), (←), are used to navigate the parameter currently being
monitored or controlled. Table 4-2 describes the key functions available at the front panel.

Table 4-2.

Edit Mode Key Functions (Front Panel Only)

Parameter

Type

Fixed Point

Decimal

Unsigned

Hexadecimal

Enumerated N/A Previous

Date/ Time Changes Digit

IP Address Changes Digit Increments

Text Strings Changes

0 – 9

Changes Digit Toggles ±

Changes Digit Increments

Character

(If Signed)

Digit Value

Value in

List
N/A N/A Moves

Digit Value

Increments

Character

Value

Toggles ±

(If Signed)

Decrements

Digit Value

Next

Value in

List

Decrements

Digit Value

Decrements

Character

Value

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Left

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Left
N/A N/A N/A N/A

Cursor 1

Position

Left

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Left

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Left

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Right

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Right

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Right

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Right

Moves

Cursor 1

Position

Right

‘Clear’ &

N/A N/A

N/A N/A

N/A N/A

N/A N/A

Clears to

Left of

Cursor

Inclusive

Clears to

Inclusive

‘Clear’ &

Right of

Cursor

4.1.3 Front Panel Keypad

The Front Panel Keypad consists of a 10-key numeric entry with two addi tional keys for the ‘Enter’
and ‘Clear’ functions. Table 4-2 describes the key functions available at the front panel.

4-2 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem User Interfaces

4.1.4 Front Panel LED Indica tors

There are 12 LEDs on the MM200 front panel to indicate the status of the MM200’s operation
(refer to Table 4-3). The LED colors maintain a consistent meaning. Green signifies that the
indication is appropriate for normal operation, Yellow means that there is a condition not proper
for normal operation, and Red indicates a fault condition that will result in lost communications.

Table 4-3

LED Color Function

Transmit On Green Indicates the MM200 Transmitter is turned on.

Major Alarm Red Indicates that the transmit direction has failed, losing traffic.
Minor Alarm Yellow Indicates a transmit warning condition exists.

Test Mode Yellow Indicates the modulator is involved in a current test mode

activity.

Signal Lock Green Indicates the modem has received a signal and is locked
Major Alarm Red Receive direction failed.
Minor Alarm Yellow Receive learning condition.

Test Mode Yellow Indicates the modem is involved in a current test mode

activity.

Power Green Indicates the MM200 unit is currently powered-up.

Fault Red Indicates a general equipment fault.

Event Yellow Indicates that a new event has been logged into the Event

Buffer.

Remote Green Indicates that the unit is set to respond to the remote control

or terminal input.

4.1.5 Parameter Setup

Use the four arrow keys, to navigate the menu tree and select the parameter to be set. After
arriving at a parameter that needs to be modified, depress <ENTER>. The first space of the
modifiable parameter highlights (blinks) and is ready for a new parameter to be entered. After
entering the new parameter using the keypad, depress <ENTER> to lock in the new parameter. If
a change needs to be made prior to pressing <ENTER>, depress <CLEAR> and the display
defaults back to the original parameter. Depress <ENTER> again and re-enter the new
parameters followed by <ENTER>.

Following a valid input, the MM200 will place the new setting into the nonvolatile EEPROM making
it available immediately and available the next time the unit is powered-up.

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 4-3

User Interfaces MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

4.2 Front Panel Control Screen Me nus

The Front Panel Control Screen Menus are listed below. The MM200 Microwave Modem may be
operated in three different levels:

Level 0 - is for specialized factory configurations. Every screen is available including
those used for factory calibration and diagnostics.

Level 1 – includes those screens necessary for field maintenance.
Level 2 – is the default setting and is shipped from the factory in this mode. The screens

are available that provide the quickest form of setup and use.

Note: Screens Menus are listed below by level (L0, L1, and L2) and may be Read/Write
(RW) or Read Only (RO).

4.3 Level 2 Menu Screens

Level 2 menus screens allow for the quickest operation and system setup.

4.3.1 Main Menu Screens

Main Menu Screens (one of which is a Title Screen) are listed below:

MM-200 MODULATOR Title Screen:
Not a modifiable screen.

MODULATOR (menu):
DEMODULATOR (menu):
REPEATER (menu):
APC (menu):
TX INTERFACE (menu):
RX INTERFACE (menu):
MONITOR (menu):
ALARMS (menu):
SYSTEM (menu):
TEST (menu):

4-4 TM086 - Rev. 4.1

MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem User Interfaces

FREQUENCY (Hz)

{50 – 90 MHz}

Frequency Control is set to ‘User’.

RW

CHANNELS

{Auto, 1 - 4}

better bandwidth efficiency.

RW

Controls the total Symbol Rate.

RO

required bandwidth.

RO

BANDWIDTH (Hz)

Enters the 3 dB bandwidth of the

dB bandwidth.

RW

UTILIZATION (%) *

Displays the percentage of the data being

channels).

RO

MAX PAYLOAD (Hz)

Displays the maximum total data rate that
is useable for the current settings.

RO

SPECTRUM

{Normal, Inverted}

through the radio, try these settings.

RW

Sets the IF Output Power in 1 dB steps.

RW

Forces the Carrier to Off or On.

RW

4.3.2 MODULATOR (menu) *

The Modulator Menu Screens are listed below:

Screen Name Selections and Des criptions L2

Controls the current center band of the
operating frequency width, or the
individual channel frequency if the System

Controls the number of channel cards
where 0 = auto, and 1 – 4 = the number of
cards. Increase this number for better
performance. Lower this number for

SYMB RATE (SPS) {3.5 – 28 Msps}
MODULATION {QAM4, QAM16, QAM32, QAM64,

QAM128, QAM256}

Displays the current Modulation Scheme.
Performance is increased by using the
lowest QAM Mode possible for the

modulated IF Output. When the radio
must meet a particular spectral mask, set
this number to something below the
masks 3 dB points (i.e. 5% less). For best
performance, do not allow the MM200s
bandwidth to be greater than the radios 1

transferred that is being used by the
selected interfaces. Must be less than
100% (Maximize this number for best
bandwidth efficiency by lowering the
symbol rate, QAM Mode, or the number of

Used for inverting the spectrum. If the
unit cannot lock to the signal after passing

TX POWER {0 to –25 dBm}
TX ENABLE {Off, On}

TM086 - Rev. 4.1 4-5

User Interfaces MM200 High-Speed Microwave Modem

FREQUENCY (Hz)

{50 – 90 MHz}

operating frequency width.

RW

CHANNELS

{Auto, 1 – 4, Debug}

better bandwidth efficiency.

RW

Controls the total Symbol Rate.

RO

Scheme.

RO

BANDWIDTH (Hz)

Displays the frequency difference between
and the lowest channel’s lower 3-dB point.

RW

UTILIZATION (%)

Displays the percentage of the data being

channels.

RO

Displays the maximum total data rate that
is useable for the current settings.

RO

SPECTRUM

{Normal, Inverted}

RW

ATTENUATION

{0 - 31}

in 1 dB steps.

RW

ACQUISITION (men u ):

The Demodulator Acquisition Frequency

2. Continue to try to acquire for the length

4.3.3 DEMODULATOR (menu)

The Demodulator Menu Screens are listed below:

Screen Name Selections and Des criptions L2

Displays the current center band of the

Controls the number of channel cards
where 0 = auto, and 1 – 4 = the number of
cards. Increase this number for better
performance. Lower this number for

SYMB RATE (SPS) {3.5 – 28 Msps}
DEMODULATION {QAM4, QAM16, QAM32, QAM64,

QAM128, QAM256}

Displays the current Demodulation

the highest channel’s upper 3-dB point

MAX PAYLOAD (Hz)

transferred that is being used by the
selected interfaces. Must be less than
100%. Maximize this number for best
bandwidth efficiency by lowering the
symbol rate, QAM Mode, or the number of

Sets the Demodulator Input IF Attenuator

range can be set by the user. This is
required at higher QAM rates when using
radios with significant frequency drift. As
QAM rates increase, the ability of the
receiver to acquire to a signal that is offset
from the programmed demodulator
frequency is reduced. At QAM256 the
acquisition window can be as low as ± 50
kHz. Yet at QAM4, the window can be
over ± 1 MHz. This range can be further
reduced by noise or degraded receive
signals.

When trying to acquire a signal, the
MM200 follows this procedure:

1. Try to acquire at the Demodulator
Programmed Frequency.

4-6 TM086 - Rev. 4.1