GE MDS 4710A, MDS 4710C, MDS 4710M, MDS 9710A, MDS 9710C Technical Manual

MDS 4710/9710 Series

(Including: MDS 4710A/C/M and MDS 9710A/C/M/T)

Technical Manual

400 MHz and 900 MHz

Remote Data Transceivers

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

OCTOBER 2011

Installation and Operation Guide

QUICK START GUIDE

DB-9 DB-25 DB-9 DB-25

As required for application

TRANSCEIVER

(DCE)

RTU

(DTE)

DB-9 to DB-25 Example

As required for application

RTU

(DTE)

DB-25 to DB-25 Example

TRANSCEIVER

(DCE)

3
2
7
6
4

8

5

RTS

RXD
TXD

DCD

GND
DSR

CTS

RTS

RXD
TXD

DCD

GND
DSR

CTS

2
3
5
6
7

1

8

2
3
4
5
6

1

7
8

2
3
4
5
6

1

7
8

DSR

TXD

RXD

GND

RTS
CTS

GND
DCD

DSR

TXD
RXD

GND

RTS
CTS

GND
DCD

Below are the basic steps for installing the transceiver. See “INSTALLATION” on Page 5 of this guide for
detailed instructions.

1. Install and connect the antenna system to the radio

• Use good quality, low loss coaxial cable. Keep the feedline as short as possible.

• Preset directional antennas in the direction of desired transmission.

2. Connect the data equipment to the radio’s INTERFACE connector

• Use a DB-25 Male connector to connect to the radio. Connections for typical systems are shown
below.

• Connect only the required pins. Do not use a straight-through RS-232 cable with all pins wired.

• Verify the data equipment is configured as DTE. (By default, the radio is configured as DCE.)

3. Apply DC power to the radio (10.5–16 Vdc @ 2.5 A minimum)

• Observe proper polarity. The red wire is the positive lead; the black is negative.

4. Set the radio’s basic configuration with a Hand-Held Terminal (HHT)

• Set the transmit frequency (TX xxx.xxxx).

• Set the receive frequency (RX xxx.xxxx).

• Set the baud rate/data interface par ameters as follows. Use the BAUD xx xxx abc com mand, where
xxxxx equals the data speed (110–38400 bps) and abc equals the communication parameters as
follows:

a = Data bits (7 or 8)
b = Parity (N for None, O for Odd, E for Even

c = Stop bits (1 or 2)
(Example: BAUD 9600 8N1)

NOTE: 7N1, 8E2 and 8O2 are invalid parameters and are not supported by the transceiver.

5. Verify proper operation by observing the LED display

• Refer to Table 7 on Page 14 for a description of the status LEDs.

• Refine directional antenna headings for maximum receive signal strength using th e RSSI command.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 GENERAL ................................................................................... 1

1.1 Introduction ......................................................................................1

1.2 Applications ......................................................................................2

Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS) ......................2

Point-to-Point System .......................................................................3

Continuously-Keyed versus Switched-Carrier Operation..................3

Single-Frequency (Simplex) Operation.............................................4

1.3 Model Number Codes ......................................................................4

1.4 Contents of Standard Shipping Packages ........................................4

1.5 Accessories ......................................................................................5

2.0 INSTALLATION............................................................................ 5

2.1 Installation Step s ..............................................................................6

2.2 Transceiver Mounting .......................................................................7

2.3 Antennas and Feedlines ..................................................................9

Feedlines ..........................................................................................9

2.4 Power Connection ..........................................................................10

2.5 Safety/Earth Ground ......................................................................10

2.6 Data Interface Connections ............................................................11

2.7 Using the Radio’s Sleep Mode ............. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ...12

System Example...... ... .... ................................................... ... .... ... ...13

3.0 OPERATION..............................................................................13

3.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................14

3.2 RSSI Measurement ........................................................................14

4.0 TRANSCEIVER PROGRAMMING............................................ 15

4.1 Hand-Held Terminal Connection & Startup ....................................15

4.2 Hand-Held Terminal Setup .............................................................16

4.3 Keyboard Commands ....................................................................17

Entering Commands................ .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ..........................17

Error Messages...............................................................................19

4.4 Detailed Command Descriptions ....................................................21

ALARM............................................................................................21

AMASK [0000 0000–FFFF FFFF]...................................................21

ASENSE [HI/LO].............................................................................23

BAUD [xxxxx abc] ...........................................................................24

BUFF [ON, OFF] [xxx].....................................................................24

CKEY [ON–OFF].............................................................................25

CTS [0–255]....................................................................................25

DATAKEY [ON, OFF]......................................................................25

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual i

DEVICE [DCE, CTS KEY]...............................................................25

DKEY..............................................................................................26

DIN [ON/OFF] .................................................................................26

DLINK [ON/OFF/xxxx]..... ... ... ... .................................................... ...26

DTYPE [NODE/ROOT]...................................................................26

DUMP .............................................................................................26

EMP [ON/OFF]................................................................................26

HREV..............................................................................................27

INIT.................................................................................................27

INIT [4710/9710].............................................................................27

INIT [4720/9720].............................................................................27

KEY.................................................................................................28

MODEL...........................................................................................28

MODEM [xxxx, NONE]....... ... ... .... ...................................................28

OWM [XXX...]..................................................................................28

OWN [XXX...]........................................................................ ..........28

PTT [0–255]....................................................................................28

PWR [20–37]...................................................................................28

RSSI................................................................................................29

RTU [ON/OFF/0-80]........................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ..........................29

RX [xxx.xxxx] ............................................................................ ... ...29

RXLEVEL [–20 to +6]......................................................................30

RXTOT [NONE, 1-1440] .... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ................................30

SCD [0-255]....................................................................................30

SER.................................................................................................30

SHOW [DC, PORT, PWR]...............................................................30

SNR ................................................................................................30

SREV..............................................................................................31

STAT...............................................................................................31

TEMP..............................................................................................31

TOT [1-255, ON, OFF]....................................................................31

TX [xxx.xxxx]...................................................................................31

TXLEVEL [–20 to +6, AUTO]..........................................................32

UNIT [10000...65000]......................................................................32

5.0 TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................. 32

6.0 TECHNICAL REFERENCE....................................................... 35

ii MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

5.1 LED Indicators ................................................................................32

5.2 Event Codes ...................................................................................33

Checking for Alarms—STAT command...........................................33

Major Alarms vs. Minor Alarms.......................................................33

Event Code Definitions ...................................................................34

6.1 MDS 4710A/C/M and 9710A/C/M/T Transceiver Specifications ....35

6.2 Helical Filter Adjustment ................................................................36

6.3 Performing Network-Wide Remote Diagnostics ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ......37

6.4 User-Programmable Interface Output Functions ...........................39

6.5 Upgrading the Radio’s Software ....................................................40

6.6 External Orderwire Module ............................................................41

Installation.......................................................................................41

Operation........................................................................................42

6.7 dBm-Watts-Volts Conversion Chart ................................................43

7.0 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................... 44

Copyright Notice

This Installation and Operation Guide and all software described herein
are protected by copyright: 2010 GE MDS, LLC. All rights reserved.

GE MDS, LLC reserves its right to correct any errors and omissions in
this publication.

Revision Notice

While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of
this manual, product improvements may result in minor differences
between the manual and the product shipped to you. If you have addi­tional questions or need an exact specification for a product, please con­tact our Customer Service Team using the information at the back of this
guide. In addition, manual updates can often be found on the GE MDS
Web site at www.microwavedata.com.

ISO 9001 Registration

GE MDS adheres to this internationally accepted quality system stan­dard.

MDS Quality Policy Statement

We, the employees of GE MDS, LLC, are committed to achieving total
customer satisfaction in everything we do.

Total Customer Satisfaction in:

• Conception, design, manufacture and marketing of our products.

• Services and support we provide to our internal and external
customers.

Total Customer Satisfaction Achieved Through:

• Processes that are well documented and minimize variations.

• Partnering with suppliers who are committed to providing quality and
service.

• Measuring our performance against customer expectations and
industry leaders.

• Commitment to continuous improvement and employee involvement.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual iii

Antenna Installation Warning

RF Exposure

Separation distances
required for FCC RF
Exposure compliance

1. All antenna installation and servicing is to be performed by

qualified technical personnel only . When servicing the antenna, or
working at distances closer than those listed below, ensure the

transmitter has been disabled.

Output is measured at the antenna terminal of the transmitter. The
antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be fixed-mounted on
outdoor permanent structures to provide the minimum separation
distances described in this filing for satisfying RF exposure
compliance requirements. When applicable, 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).

2. Typically, the antenna connected to the transmitter is a directional

(high gain) antenna, fixed-mounted on the side or top of a building,
or on a tower. Depending upon the application and the gain of the
antenna, the total composite power could exceed 200 watts EIRP.
The antenna location should be such that only qualified technical
personnel can access it, and that under normal operating conditions
no other person can touch the antenna or approach within 3.05
meters of the antenna.

Antenna Gain vs. Recommended Safety Distance

(MDS 4710 Series)

Antenna Gain (MDS 4710 Series)

0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi

Minimum RF
Safety Distance

Antenna Gain vs. Recommended Safety Distance

Minimum RF
Safety Distance

0.79 meter 1.41 meters 3.05 meters

(MDS 9710 Series)

Antenna Gain (MDS 9710 Series)

0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–18.65 dBi

0.53 meter 0.94 meter 2.6 meters

FCC Part 15 Notice

The MDS 4710 AND 9710 transceivers licensed under Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. (MDS 4710, Part 90.210, 403–512 MHz; MDS 9710,
Part 101.101, 928–960 MHz) Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation. This device is specifically designed
to be used under Section 15.247 of the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any

iv MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express

EXPLOSION

HAZARD!

approval of Microwave Data Systems may void the user’s authority to
operate this device. Furthermore, this device is intended to be used only
when installed in accordance with the instructions outlined in this
manual. Failure to comply with these instructions may also void the
user’s authority to operate this device.

CSA/us Notice

This product is approved for use in Class 1, Division 2, Groups A, B,
C & D Hazardous Locations. Such locations are defined in Article 500
of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publication NFPA
70, otherwise known as the National Electrical Code.

The transceiver has been recognized for use in these hazardous locations
by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) which also issues the US
mark of approval (CSA/US). The CSA Certification is in accordance
with CSA STD C22.2 No. 213-M1987.

CSA Conditions of Approval: The transceiver is not acceptable as a
stand-alone unit for use in the hazardous locations described above. It
must either be mounted within another piece of equipment which is cer­tified for hazardous locations, or installed within guidelines, or condi­tions of approval, as set forth by the approving agencies. These
conditions of approval are as follows:

• The transceiver must be mounted within a separate enclosure
which is suitable for the intended application.

• The antenna feedline, DC power cable and interface cable must
be routed through conduit in accordance with the National Elec­trical Code.

• Installation, operation and maintenance of the transceiver should
be in accordance with the transceiver's installation manual, and
the National Electrical Code.

• Tampering or replacement with non-factory components may
adversely affect the safe use of the transceiver in hazardous loca­tions, and may void the approval.

• A power connector with screw-type retaining screws as supplied
by GE MDS must be used.

Do not disconnect equipment unless power has been
switched off or the area is known to be non-hazardous.

Refer to Articles 500 through 502 of the National Electrical
Code (NFPA 70) for further information on hazardous
locations and approved Division 2 wiring methods.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual v

Distress Beacon Warning

In the U.S.A., the 406 to 406.1 MHz band is reserved for use by distress
beacons. Since the radio described in this manual is capable of transmit­ting in this band, take precautions to prevent the radio from transmitting
between 406 to 406.1 MHz in U.S. applications.

ESD Notice

To prevent malfunction or damage to this radio, which may be caused
by Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), the radio should be properly
grounded by connection to the ground stud on the rear panel. In addition,
the installer or operator should follow proper ESD precautions, such as
touching a grounded bare metal object to dissipate body charge, prior to
adjusting front panel controls or connecting or disconnecting cables on
the front or rear panels.

Environmental Information

The equipment that you purchased has required the extraction and use
of natural resources for its production. Improper disposal may contami­nate the environment and present a health risk due to hazardous sub­stances contained within. To avoid dissemination of these substances
into our environment, and to diminish the demand on natural resources,
we encourage you to use the appropriate recycling systems for disposal.
These systems will reuse or recycle most of the materials found in this
equipment in a sound way. Please contact MDS or your supplier for
more information on the proper disposal of this equipment.

Battery Disposal–This product may contain a battery. Batteries must be
disposed of properly, and may not be disposed of as unsorted municipal
waste in the European Union. See the product documentation for spe­cific battery information. Batteries are marked with a symbol, which
may include lettering to indicate cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), or mercury
(Hg). For proper recycling return the battery to your supplier or to a des­ignated collection point. For more information see:

www.weeerohsinfo.com.

vi MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

1.0 GENERAL

DIAGNOSTICS

CONNECTOR (RJ-11)

ANTENNA CONNECTOR

(TYPE N)

13.8 VDC POWER
CONNECTOR

SERIAL NUMBER

LABEL

EXTERNAL

INTERFACE

CONNECTOR

(DB-25)

LED INDICATORS (4)

1.1 Introduction

This guide presents installation and operating instructions for the
MDS 4710A/9710A and the MDS 4710C/9710C Series (400/900 MHz)
digital radio transceivers.

These transceivers (Figure 1) are data telemetry radios designed to
operate in a point-to-multipoint environment, such as electric utility
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and distribution
automation, gas field automation, water and wastewater SCADA, and
online transaction processing applications. They use microprocessor
control and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology to provide
highly reliable communications under adverse conditions.

Figure 1. Transceiver Connectors and Indicators

Modulation and demodulation is accomplished using Digital Signal Pro­cessing (DSP). DSP adapts to differences between components from
unit to unit, and ensures consistent and repeatable performance in
ambient temperatures from –30 to +60 degrees Celsius. The use of Dig­ital Signal Processing eliminates the fluctuations and variations in
modem operation that degrade operation of analog circuits.

The transceiver is designed for trouble-free operation with data equip­ment provided by other manufacturers, including Remote Terminal
Units (RTUs), flow computers, lottery terminals, automatic teller
machines, programmable logic controllers, and others.

NOTE: Some features are not available on all radios, based on the

options purchased and the applicable regulatory constraints for
the region in which the radio operates.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 1

1.2 Applications

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HOST SYSTEM

REMOTE RADIO

SWC OFF

RTU

RTU

RTU

RTU

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3
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8

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MDS MASTER

STATION

CONTINUOUSLY

KEYED

REMOTE RADIO

SWC OFF

REMOTE RADIO

SWC OFF

REMOTE RADIO

SWC OFF

REMOTE RADIO

SWC OFF

Point-to-Multipoint, Multiple Address Systems (MAS)

This is the most common application of the transceiver. It consists of a
central master station and several associated remote units as shown in

Figure 2. A MAS network provides communication between a central

host computer and remote terminal units (RTUs) or other data collection
devices. The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer
equipment.

Often, however, a radio system consists of many widely separated
remote radios. A point-to-multipoint or SCADA (Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisition) system might be utilized for automatic, remote
monitoring of gas wells, water tank levels, electric power distribution
system control and measurement, and so on.

The radio system can replace a network of remote monitors currently
linked to a central location via leased telephone line. At the central
office of such a system, there is usually a large mainframe computer and
a way to switch between individual lines coming from each remote mon­itor. In this type of system, there is a modulator/demodulator (modem)
at the main computer, and at each remote site, usually built into the
remote monitor itself. Since the cost of leasing a dedicated-pair phone
line is quite high, a desirable alternative is to replace the phone line with
a radio path.

2 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

Figure 2. Typical MAS Point-to-Multipoint Network

Point-to-Point System

REMOTE

MASTER

HOST

COMPUTER

RTU

Where permitted, the transceiver can also be used in a point-to-point
system. A point-to-point system consists of two radios, one serving as a
master and the other as a remote (Figure 3). This system provides a sim­plex or half-duplex communication link for the transfer of data between
two locations.

Invisible place holder

Figure 3. Typical Point-to-Point Link

Continuously-Keyed versus Switched-Carrier Operation

Continuously-Keyed operation means the master station transmitter is
always keyed and an RF carrier is always present, even when there is no
data to send. The master station is always simultaneously transmitting
and listening. Use different frequencies to transmit and receive. This is
the method used in many MAS systems, as is shown in the typical
system in Figure 2. This is network arrangement useful for high-speed
polling applications.

NOTE: MDS 4710/9710 remotes do not support full-duplex operation.

Switched-Carrier operation is a half-duplex mode where the master sta­tion transmitter is keyed to send data and unkeyed to receive. The trans­ceiver uses different frequencies for transmit and receive. This prevents
different remotes from interfering with each other, making it easier to
implement SCADA protocols. This mode results in slower polling times
than a Continuous-Keyed master due to the keying time for the master
and squelch opening time for the remote.

Additional information:

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 3

• Remotes always operate in switched-carrier mode, but can
receive data from a master that operates in either switched-carrie r
or continuously-keyed modes.

• A single-frequency system cannot utilize a continuously keyed
master.

• An advantage of a continuously-keyed master is that it provides a
constant signal source to remotes that require a constant Data Car­rier Detect signal.

Single-Frequency (Simplex) Operation

Single-frequency operation (also known as simplex) is a special case of
switched-carrier operation. Single frequency operation is automatically
selected whenever the transmit and receive frequencies are set to the
same value. Simplex mode results in slower polling because the TX syn­thesizer must move off the RX channel to receive, and back to transmit.

Single-frequency operation is useful for peer-to-peer communication
using omni-directional antennas with radios in close proximity to each
other.

1.3 Model Number Codes

The radio model number is printed on the end of the radio enclosure and
provided through the software command MODEL (Page 28). It provides
key information about how the radio was configured when it was
shipped from the factory. This number is subject to many variations
depending on what options are installed, and in which country the
product is used. Contact GE MDS if you have questions on the meaning
of the code.

1.4 Contents of Standard Shipping Packages

Table 1 and Table 2 list the content of routine shipments of

MDS 4710/9710 transceivers. The contents might be modified to reflect
customer requirements specified at the time the order was placed.

Table 1. Standard—Accessories (Supplied with All Orders)

Item Description GE MDS Part Number

Transceiver Power Cable Assembly
12 Vdc, (UL-Approved)

Cable, TELCO-Type, 84", RJ12 to RJ12 03-2198A05

Radio Configuration Software for Windows OS 03-3156A01

Installation & Operation Guide 05-3305A01

Connector, RJ-11 to DB-9 (Female) 73-2434A02

Table 2. Items Supplied with Diagnostic Option

Item Description GE MDS Part Number

InSite 6 Network Diagnostics Software (CD-ROM) 03-3533A01

InSite Network Diagnostics Manual 05-3467A01

03-1846A02

4 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

1.5 Accessories

The transceiver can be used with one or more of the accessories listed in

Table 3. Contact GE MDS for ordering information.

Table 3. Optional Accessories for MDS 4710/9710 Transceivers

Accessory Description

Power Supply Kit Provides nominal 13.8 Vdc from a

Hand-Held Terminal
Kit (HHT)

RTU Simulator Test unit that simulates data from a

Orderwire Module External device that allows temporary

Orderwire Handset Used with Orderwire Module (above)

RJ-11 to DB-9 adapter Used to connect a PC to the radio’s

EIA-232 to EIA-422
Converter Assembly

Radio Configuration
Software

120 Vac power source. Includes DC
cable for transceiver.

Terminal that plugs into the radio for
programming, diagnostics and control.
Includes carrying case and cable set.

remote terminal unit. Comes with
polling software that runs on a PC.
Useful for testing radio operation.

voice communication. Useful during
setup and testing of the radio system.

Standard Handset

Handset with PTT

DIAG (Diagnostics) port

External adapter plug that converts the
radio’s DATA INTERFACE connector
to EIA-422 compatible signaling.

Provides diagnostics of the transceiver
(Windows-based PC required).

GE MDS
P/N

01-3682A01

02-1501A01

03-2512A01

02-1297A01

12-1307A01

12-1307A02

03-3246A01

03-2358A01

03-3156A01

2.0 INSTALLATION

There are three main requirements for installing the transceiver:

• Adequate and stable primary power

• A good antenna system, and the correct data connections between
the transceiver, and

• The data device.

Figure 4 shows a typical remote station arrangement.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 5

Invisible place holder

REMOTE TERMINAL
UNIT

ANTENNA SYSTEM

LOW-LOSS FEEDLINE

RADIO

TRANSCEIVER

13.8 VDC

2.5 A (MINIMUM)
POWER SUPPLY

13.8 VDC
POWER

CABLE

Figure 4. Typical Remote Station Arrangement

2.1 Installation Steps

Below are the basic steps for installing the transceiver. In most cases,
these steps alone are sufficient to complete the installation. More
detailed explanations appear at the end of these steps.

1. Mount the transceiver to a stable surface using the brackets supplied
with the radio.

2. Install the antenna and feedline for the station. Point directional
antennas in the direction of the associated network’s Master Station.

3. Connect the data equipment to the transceiver’s DATA INTERFACE
connector. Use only the required pins for the application—Do not
use a fully pinned (25-conductor) cable. Basic applications might
require only the use of Pin 2 (Transmit Data—TXD), Pin 3
(Received Data—RXD) and Pin 7 (Signal Ground). The radio can
be keyed by using the

Additional connections might be required for some installations.
Refer to the complete list of pin functions provided in Table 6 on

Page 11.

DATAKEY command.

6 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

4. Measure and install the primary power for the radio. The red wire on

CAUTION

POSSIBLE

EQUIPMENT

DAMAGE

ENTER

ENTER

the GE MDS-provided power cable is the positive lead; the black is
negative.

Only use the MDS 4710/9710 radio transceivers in nega­tive-ground systems.

Connection to a positive-ground system or an accidental reversal
of the power leads can damage the transceiver.

5. Set the radio configuration. In most cases, the transceiver requires
only minimal software configuration. The selections that must be
made for new installations are:

• Transmit frequency (“TX [xxx.xxxx]” on Page 31)

• Receive frequency (“RX [xxx.xxxx]” on Page 29)

The operating frequencies are not set at the factory unless they were
specified at the time of order. Determine the transmit and receive
frequencies to be used, and follow the steps below to program them.

6. Connect a hand-held terminal (HHT) to the DIAG (diagnostic) con­nector. When the HHT beeps, press to receive the ready “>”
prompt.

7. Set the operating frequencies using the TX xxx.xxxx (transmit) and RX

xxx.xxxx

(receive) commands.

Press after each command. After programming, the HHT
reads PROGRAMMED OK to indicate successful entry.

2.2 Transceiver Mounting

NOTE: To prevent moisture from entering the radio, do not mount the

radio with the cable connectors pointing up. Also, dress all
cables to prevent moisture from running along the cables and
into the radio.

Figure 5 shows the mounting dimensions of the transceiver.

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 7

Invisible place holder

1.
75

"

4.
44

C
M

ALTERNATE

POSITION

7.25 in.

184 mm

2.75 in.

70 mm

8.5 in.

216 mm

6.63 in.

168 mm

5.625 in.
143 mm

2.0 in.

50 mm

2.25 in.

57 mm

CAUTION

POSSIBLE

EQUIPMENT

DAMAGE

Figure 5. Transceiver Mounting Dimensions

Using screws longer than 1/4 inch (6 mm) to attach the brackets
to the radio might damage the internal PC board. Use only the
supplied screws.

8 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

2.3 Antennas and Feedlines

Antennas

The transceiver can be used with a number of antenna styles. The exact
style depends on the physical size and layout of the radio system. A
directional Yagi (Figure 6) or corner reflector antenna is generally rec-
ommended at remote sites to minimize interference to and from other
users. Antennas of this type are available from several manufacturers.

Invisible place holder

Figure 6. Typical Yagi Antenna (mounted to mast)

Feedlines

The selection of antenna feedline is very important. Avoid poor quality
cables as they will result in power losses that can reduce the range and
reliability of the radio system.

Table 4 and Table 5 show the losses that will occur when using various

lengths and types of cable at 400 and 960 MHz. Keep the cable as short
as possible to minimize signal loss.

Table 4. Length vs. Loss in Coaxial Cables at 400 MHz

10 Feet

Cable Type

RG-8A/U 0.51dB 2.53 dB 5.07 dB 25.35 dB

1/2 inch HELIAX 0.12 dB 0.76 dB 1.51 dB 7.55 dB

7/8 inch HELIAX 0.08 dB 0.42 dB 0.83 dB 4.15 dB

1-1/4 inch HELIAX 0.06 dB 0.31 dB 0.62 dB 3.10 dB

1-5/8 inch HELIAX 0.05 dB 0.26 dB 0.52 dB 2.60 dB

(3.05 Meters)

50 Feet

(15.24 Meters)

100 Feet

(30.48 Meters)

500 Feet

(152.4 Me­ters)

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 9

Table 5. Length vs. Loss in Coaxial Cables at 960 MHz

10 Feet

Cable Type

RG-8A/U 0.85 dB 4.27 dB 8.54 dB 42.70 dB

1/2 inch HELIAX

7/8 inch HELIAX

1-1/4 inch HELIAX

1-5/8 inch HELIAX

(3.05 Meters)

0.23 dB 1.15 dB 2.29 dB 11.45 dB

0.13 dB 0.64 dB 1.28 dB 6.40 dB

0.10 dB 0.48 dB 0.95 dB 4.75 dB

0.08 dB 0.40 dB 0.80 dB 4.00 dB

50 Feet

(15.24 Meters)

100 Feet

(30.48 Meters)

500 Feet

(152.4 Me­ters)

2.4 Power Connection

The transceiver is compatible with any well-filtered 10.5 to 16 Vdc
power source. The power supply should be capable of providing at least

2.5 A of continuous current.
The red wire on the power cable is the positive lead; the black is nega-

tive.

NOTE: The radio is designed for use only in negative ground systems.

2.5 Safety/Earth Ground

To minimize the chances of damage to the transceiver and connected
equipment, a good safety ground is recommended which bonds the
antenna system, the radio transceiver, power supply, and connected data
equipment to a single-point ground. Normally, the transceiver is ade­quately grounded if the GE MDS mounting brackets are used to secure
the radio to a well-grounded metal surface.

If the transceiver is not mounted to a grounded surface, connect a safety
ground to the transceiver case. A ground can be connected to one of the
four screws on the bottom of the transceiver. Do not use any of the four
screws that hold together the upper and lower parts of the transceiver
case.

Connect all rack equipment and associated hardware grounds to the
building’s ground system for the primary power. The objective is to
create a single-point ground system, keeping all grounds leads as short
as possible.

To prevent damage, provide a good ground connection for the equip­ment connected to the

INTERFACE connector.

Finally, use lightning protectors where the antenna transmission lines
enter the building. Bond them to the tower ground, if it is nearby.

10 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E

2.6 Data Interface Connections

CAUTION

USE ONLY

REQUIRED

PINS

Connect the transceiver’s DATA INTERFACE connector to an external
DTE data terminal that supports the EIA-232 (formally RS-232) format.
The transceiver supports autobaud asynchronous data rates of up to
19200 bps. The data rate at the DATA INTERFACE connector might differ
from the data rate used over the air.

Table 6 lists and describes each pin on the DATA INTERFACE connector.

Do not use a 25 wire (fully pinned) cable for connection to the DATA

INTERFACE connector. Use only the required pins for the application.

Damage can result if improper connections are made. Typical applica­tions require the use of only Pins 1 through 8 for EIA-232 signaling.

Table 6. DATA INTERFACE Connector Pinouts

Pin
Number

1--Protective Ground. Connects to ground (negative supply

2INTXD—Transmitted Data. Accepts TX data from the

3OUTRXD—Received Data. Outputs received data to the

4INRTS—Request-to-Send Input. Keys the transmitter when

5OUTCTS—Clear-to-Send Output. Goes logic high after the

6OUTDSR—Data Set Ready. Provides a +6 Vdc DSR signal

7--Signal Ground. Connects to ground (negative supply

8OUTDCD—Data Carrier Detect. Goes to logic high when the

9INTransmit Audio Input. Connects to the audio output of an

10 OUT RUS—Receiver Unsquelched Sensor. Not used in most

11 OUT Receive Audio Output. Connects to the audio input of an

12 IN Radio In hib it (Sle e p). A ground on this pin places the

MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual 11

Input/
Output Pin Description

potential) on the radio’s PC board and chassis.

connected device.

connected device.

RTS is at logic high.

programmed CTS delay time has elapsed (DCE) or keys
an attached radio when RF data arrives (CTS KEY).

through a 2.5 k resistor.

potential) at radio’s PC board.

modem detects a data carrier from the master station.

external (AFSK) modem. The input impedance is 600 .
Use Pin 7 for the modem’s return lead.

installations, but is available as a convenience. Provides
+8 Vdc through a 1 k resistor whenever the receiver
squelch is open, and drops to less than 1 Vdc when the
squelch is closed.

external (AFSK) modem. The output impedance is 600 ,
and the level is factory set to suit most installations. Use
Pin 7 for the modem’s return lead.

radio in sleep mode. It turns off most circuits in the radio,
including transmit, receive, modem and diagnostic
functions. This allows for greatly reduced power
consumption, yet preserves the radio’s ability to be quickly
brought online.

Table 6. DATA INTERFACE Connector Pinouts (Continued)

Pin
Number

13 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

14 IN PTT—Push-to-Talk. This line is used to key the radio with

15 -- User-Programmable Output 2—EIA-232-compatible

16 IN PTT

17 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

18 OUT Accessory Power. Unregulated Output. Provides a

19 OUT 9.9 Vdc Regulated Output. Provides a source of

20 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

21 OUT RSSI—Received Signal Strength Indication. Connect a

22 -- User-Programmable Output 1—CMOS-compatible

23 IN Diagno stic Channel Enable. A ground on this pin causes

24 -- Do not connect—Reserved for future use.

25 OUT Alarm. A logic low (less than 0.5 Vdc) on this pin indicates

Input/
Output Pin Description

an active-high signal of +5 Vdc.

output controllable though GE MDS’ InSite NMS program.

See “User-Programmable Interface Output Functions” on
Page 39 for details.

—Push to Talk. This line is used to key the radio with

an active-low signal of 0 Vdc.

source of input power for low current accessories.
Excessive drain on this connection trips the self-resetting
fuse F1 on the transceiver PC board. The voltage at this
pin matches the input voltage to the transceiver.

regulated voltage at 100 mA for low power accessories.

DC voltmeter to this pin to read the relative strength of the
incoming signal. Figure 8 on Page 15 shows RSSI vs. DC
voltage.

output controllable though GE MDS’ InSite NMS program.

See “User-Programmable Interface Output Functions” on
Page 39 for details.

the radio’s microcontroller to open the DB-25 DATA
INTERFACE for diagnostics and control instead of the
normal RJ-11 DIAG connection.

normal operation. A logic high (greater than 4 Vdc)
indicates that some alarm condition is present. This pin
can be used as an alarm output, provided the internal
series resistance of 1 k is considered.

2.7 Using the Radio’s Sleep Mode

In some installations, such as at solar-powered sites, use Sleep Mode to
keep the transceiver’s power consumption to an absolute minimum. In
Sleep Mode, power consumption is reduced to less than 15 mA (nom­inal), yet preserves the radio’s ability to be brought online quickly.

All normal functions are suspended while the radio is in Sleep Mode.
The PWR LED is off, except for a quick flash every 5 sec.

12 MDS 4710/9710 Technical Manual MDS 05-3305A01, Rev. E