GE MDS entraNET 900, MDS entraNET 2400 Technical Manual
Technical Manual
900 MHz and 2400 MHz
Extended Range IP Networking Transceivers
Firmware Code 3.0
MDS entraNET
™
900
MDS entraNET
™
2400
Remote
Access Point
05-4055A01, Rev. E
JANUARY 2011
COM1
ETH
PWR
LINK
LAN
PORT
PC RUNNING PING UTILITY
ACCESS POINT
ETHERNET REMOTE
ETH
PORT
ETHERNET ENDPOINT
(Device Being Pinged)
STRAIGHT THROUGH
CABLE
CROSS-OVER
CABLE
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
Quick Start Instructions
Listed below are the basic steps for installing GE MDS entraNET transceivers. Refer to the
appropriate sections in the manual for detailed information.
1. Initial Checkout
• Set the equipment up in a tabletop arrangement as described in 2 TABLETOP SETUP AND
EVALUATION, (
beginning on Page 15).
• Follow all steps to ensure proper cable connection
s and unit configuration. As a minimum, Access
Points must have the following programmed: IP A ddress, IP Network identifie r , and Radio Networ k
Address. (RF output power and Password should also be reviewed and set if necessary.) Remote
radios normally require only a Radio Network Address to be set. (Note: The Remote Radio Network Address must matc
• Connect data equipment to the transceivers
h that of the AP.)
. Use LAN/ETH ports for Ethernet systems, or COM2
ports for Serial data systems.
• Verify proper exchange of data communications by vie
wing the LEDs. The following indications
should be seen on the LED panel within 30 seconds of startup:
PWR—Lit co
LINK—
ETH—L
COM2—Blinking
ntinuously
Lit continuously
it continuously (unless Sleep is activated)
to indicate exchange of data communications
2. Endpoint Connectivity (PING) Test—for Ethernet Systems Only
• For Ethernet systems, verify the link integrity between the Access Point and endpoint devices connected to Remotes by issuing a PI
NG command from the AP. Below is a basic setup diagram for
the PING test. (NOTE: Endpoint devices must have a compatible IP address for this test to work.)
3. Set Configuration of AP and Remote Radios
• Refer to 3 AP MANAGEMENT beginning on Page 29 for details on connecting to the AP and
using the built-in menu system. Refer to 4 REMOTE RADIO MANAGEMENT be
Page 99 for details on programming Remotes.
• If you have a large number of radios to configure, a co
process. See USING CONFIGURATION SCRIPTS b
4. Install the Equipment in the Field
• Refer to 6 INST ALLATION beginning on Page 147 for details on site selection, mounting, cabling,
and antenna/feedline recommendations.
• After basic installation, optimize the performance of the radio network following the recommendations beginning on Page 160.
Invisible place holder
ginning on
nfiguration script may be used to speed the
eginning on Page 181 for details.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCING THE
MDS entraNET SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ........................................................................................................3
1.1.1 Supplemental Information Online ...............................................................................................3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION................................................................................................... 3
1.2.1 Model Offerings ..........................................................................................................................6
1.3 APPLICATIONS....................................................................................................................6
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN .........................................................................................................6
Antenna Placement..........................................................................................................................6
Communication Rules......................................................................................................................6
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices .....................................................................................7
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks ................................................................................................8
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces ....................................................................................................................................9
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products ..............................................................................................9
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services..........................................................9
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant) Configuration ...................................................................9
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE...............................................................................................10
1.4.1 Intrusion Detection via SNMP Traps ........................................................................................11
1.5 ACCESSORIES..................................................................................................................12
2 TABLETOP SETUP AND
EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................17
2.2 CONNECTOR OVERVIEW ................................................................................................17
2.3 TEST SETUP......................................................................................................................18
STEP 1—CONNECT THE ANTENNA PORTS ................... ... .... ...................................................19
STEP 2—MEASURE AND CONNECT DC POWER.....................................................................19
STEP 3—CONFIGURE THE AP ...................................................................................................22
Log-in and Configuration...................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..........................................................22
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual i
Set Key AP Parameters.................................................................................................................23
STEP 4—CONFIGURE THE REMOTE RADIO ............................................................................24
Log-in and Configuration...................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................................24
Set or Verify Network Address.......................................................................................................25
STEP 5—CONNECT TERMINAL EQUIPMENT............................................................................26
Ethernet Device Connection to Remote..................... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................26
Serial Device Connection to Remote.............................................................................................26
STEP 6—CHECK FOR NORMAL OPERATION ...........................................................................26
2.3.1 Verify Connectivity (PING command) .......................................................................................27
Serial Connections............................................................ ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .......................................27
3 AP MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
3.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................31
3.1.1 PC-Based Configuration Software ............................................................................................31
3.1.2 Menu Structure .........................................................................................................................32
3.1.3 Differences in the User Interfaces ............................................................................................35
3.2 ACCESSING THE MENU SYSTEM................................................................................... 36
3.2.1 Methods of Control ...................................................................................................................36
3.2.2 PC Connection and Log-In Procedures ................................................................................... .37
3.2.3 Navigating the Menus ......................................................................................... ... ... ................42
Navigating via Terminal or Telnet Sessions
Recommended for first-time users.................................................................................................42
Navigating via a Web Browser.......................................................................................................42
3.3 BASIC DEVICE INFORMATION......................................................................................... 43
3.3.1 Starting Information Screen ......................................................................................................43
3.3.2 Main Menu ................................................................................................................................44
3.4 CONFIGURING NETWORK PARAMETERS ..................................................................... 45
3.4.1 Network Configuration Menu ....................................................... ... ... .... ...................................45
3.4.2 IP Configuration Menu ..............................................................................................................46
3.4.3 Wireless MAC Configuration Menu ..........................................................................................48
3.4.4 Mobility Configuration Menu .....................................................................................................49
3.4.5 SNMP Agent Configuration Menu ............................................................................................50
3.4.6 Bridge Configuration Menu ............................. ............................. ............................. ................51
3.5 CONFIGURING RADIO PARAMETERS ............................................................................ 52
3.5.1 Radio Configuration Menu ........................................................................................................52
Skip Zones Menu...........................................................................................................................53
3.6 CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES..................................................................... 54
3.6.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................54
Serial-to-Serial Services ................................................................................................................55
ii MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
IP-to-Serial Services......................................................................................................................55
Configuration..................................................................................................................................56
Serial Configuration Wizard................................................................. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ................56
3.6.2 Local Serial Configuration Menu ..............................................................................................57
View Current Settings Screen—Serial-to-Serial Example .............................................................59
View Current Settings Screen—Unicast UDP Mode Example.......... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ...61
3.6.3 Remote Serial Gateway Configuration (IP-to-Remote Serial) ..................................................62
3.7 SECURITY CONFIGURATION........................................................................................... 64
3.7.1 Security Configuration Menu ............................. ... ....................................................................65
3.8 WIRELESS NETWORK MENU ..........................................................................................69
3.8.1 Remote Management Submenu ..............................................................................................70
Manage Selected Remote Submenu
.......................................................................................................................................................71
Broadcast Remote Reprogramming Menu
.......................................................................................................................................................72
Remote Database Menu................................................................................................................74
Group Database Menu................................................................................................... ... ... ..........75
Endpoint Database Menu ..............................................................................................................75
Access Point Database Menu.............................................................. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ......76
3.9 STATISTICS AND EVENT LOG ......................................................................................... 77
3.9.1 COM1 and COM2 Data Statistics Menus ................................................................................78
3.9.2 Remote Serial Gateway Statistics ............................................................................................79
3.9.3 Ethernet and Wireless Packet Statistics ...................................................................................80
Ethernet Packet Statistics....................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ....................................................................80
Wireless Packet Statistics..............................................................................................................80
3.9.4 Radio Packet Statistics .............................................................................................................81
3.9.5 Event Log Menu .......................................................................................................................82
Time and Date Stamping................................................................................................................82
3.10 DEVICE INFORMATION MENU.......................................................................................84
Device Names Menu......................................................................................................................85
3.11 MAINTENANCE AND TOOLS.......................................................................................... 85
3.11.1 Reprogramming Menu .............................. ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ..........................................86
3.11.2 Configuration Scripts Menu ...................................................................................................87
A Brief Description of Configuration Files ......................................................................................87
3.11.3 RSG Configuration Script Menu ............................................................................................89
3.11.4 Authorization Codes Menu ....................................................................................................91
3.11.5 Transmitter Test Menu ....................................... .... ................................................................92
3.12 REDUNDANCY MENU.....................................................................................................93
Packet Rx Errors Exceeded Threshold Menu................................................................................96
3.13 DNP3 ROUTING MENU................................................................................................... 97
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual iii
4 REMOTE RADIO MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
4.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................101
4.2 Programming Methods......................................................................................................101
4.2.1 Terminal Interface Mode .........................................................................................................101
4.2.2 Remote Management via the AP ...........................................................................................101
4.3 Log-in Procedure ..............................................................................................................101
4.4 Commands........................................................................................................................ 102
4.4.1 Entering Remote Commands .................................................................................................102
4.5 Minimum Configuration for Remotes................................................................................102
4.5.1 Detailed Command Descriptions ............................................................................................103
4.6 UPGRADING REMOTE FIRMWARE................................................................................117
5 SAMPLE CONFIGURATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
5.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................121
5.2 IP-to-Local Serial Application Example.............................................................................121
Establishing a Connection ................................ ...........................................................................121
5.3 IP-to-Remote Serial Application Example......................................................................... 122
5.3.1 Endpoint Device Connected to the AP ...................................................................................123
5.4 Point-to-Point, Serial-to-Serial Application Example......................................................... 123
5.4.1 Step-by-step Instructions for Configuring a Point-to-Point Serial Connection ........................124
5.5 Point-to-Multipoint, Serial-to-Serial Application Example..................................................132
5.5.1 Step-by-Step Instructions for Configuring a Point-to-Multipoint Serial Connection ................133
5.6 Mixed-Mode Application Example.....................................................................................140
5.6.1 Operation and Data Flow ........................................................................................................140
5.7 Group Broadcast Session Example..................................................................................142
iv MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
6 INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
6.1 INSTALLATION.................................................................................................................149
6.1.1 General Requirements ...........................................................................................................149
6.1.2 Site Selection .........................................................................................................................149
6.1.3 Conducting a Site Survey .......................................................................................................150
Terrain and Signal Strength..........................................................................................................150
A Word About Radio Interference................................................................................................150
Mounting Dimensions for Radios.................................................................................................152
6.1.4 Antenna and Feedline Selection ............................................................................................153
Antennas......................................................................................................................................153
Feedlines .....................................................................................................................................154
6.2 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED?
(U.S.A. and Canada, 900 MHz systems)..................................................................................156
6.2.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................156
6.3 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED?
(U.S.A. and Canada, 2400 MHz systems)................................................................................157
6.3.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................157
6.4 HOW MUCH OUTPUT POWER CAN BE USED? (ETSI 2400 MHz systems)................. 158
6.4.1 Calculating System Gain ........................................................................................................159
6.5 OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE........................................................................................160
6.5.1 Principles of Wireless Network Operation ..............................................................................160
6.5.2 Aiming Directive Antennas for Maximum RSSI ...................................................................... 162
Procedure ....................................................................................................................................162
6.5.3 Tips for Improving Data Throughput .......................................................................................163
To Maximize Throughput of Data and Reduce Latency Time......................................................163
To Maximize Overall Data Performance ......................................................................................164
7 TROUBLESHOOTING AND RADIO TESTS . . . . . 165
7.1 TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................................167
7.1.1 Interpreting the Front Panel LEDs ..........................................................................................167
7.1.2 Troubleshooting Using the Embedded Management System ................................................168
Serial Port and Remote Serial Statistics Menu............................................................................171
Diagnostic Tools...........................................................................................................................171
7.1.3 Using Logged Operation Events .................................................. ... ... .....................................172
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual v
8 TECHNICAL REFERENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
8.1 UPGRADING AP FIRMWARE..........................................................................................179
8.2 USING CONFIGURATION SCRIPTS...............................................................................181
Sample of an Exported Configuration File ...................................................................................182
Editing Configuration Files...........................................................................................................186
8.3 DATA INTERFACE CONNECTORS................................................................................. 187
8.3.1 LAN/ETH Port .........................................................................................................................187
8.3.2 COM1 Port .............................................................................................................................188
8.3.3 COM2 Port .............................................................................................................................189
8.4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................................................189
8.5 dBm-WATTS-VOLTS CONVERSION CHART.................................................................. 193
9 TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2011, GE MDS. All rights reserved.
ISO 9001 Registration
GE MDS adheres to the internationally-accepted ISO 9001 quality system standard.
Related Materials on the Internet
Data sheets, frequently asked questions, application notes, information on firmware upgrades, and other valuable
information can be found on the GE MDS Web site at
www.gemds.com.
About GE MDS
Over two decades ago, GE MDS began building radios for business-critical applications. Since then, we’ve installed
more than 500,000 radios in over 110 countries. To succeed, we overcame impassable terrain, brutal operating condi
tions and disparate, complex network configurations. We also became experts in wireless communication standards
and system applications worldwide. The result of our efforts is that today, thousands of utilities around the world rely
on GE MDS-based wireless networks to manage their most critical assets.
The majority of GE MDS radios deployed since 1985 are still installed and performing within our customers' wireless
networks. That’s because we design and manufacture our products in-house, according to ISO 9001 which allows us
to control and meet stringent global quality standards.
Thanks to our durable products and comprehensive solutions, GE MDS is the wireless leader in industrial automation—including oil and gas production and transportation, water/wastewater treatment, supp ly and transportation,
electric transmission and distribution and many other utility applications. GE MDS is also at the forefront of wireless
communications for private and public infrastructure and online transaction processing. Now is an exciting time for
GE MDS and our customers as we look forward to further demonstrating ou r abilities in new and emerging markets.
As your wireless needs change you can continue to expect more from GE MDS. We'll always put the performance of
your network above all. Visit us at
www.gemds.com for more information.
-
vi MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES
RF Exposure
U.S. Installations: Professional installation required. The radio equipment
described in this guide emits radio frequency energy. Although the power level is
low, the concentrated energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard.
For 900 MHz units, do not allow people to come closer than 23 cm (9 inches) to
the antenna. For 2.4 GHz units, do not allow people to come closer than 5 cm (2
inches) to the antenna. These distances apply whether the transmitter is operated
in indoor or outdoor environments. More information on RF exposure i s available
on the Internet at www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins.
ETSI Installations: In regions where the Europea
dards Institute (ETSI) standards apply, 2.4
GHz units with a maximum output
n Telecommunications Stan-
power of 100 mW EIRP are supplied. Do not allow people to come closer than 2.2
cm (1 inch) to the antenna.
CSA/US Notice
The transceiver has been recognized for use
in hazardous locations by the Canadian Standards Association
(CSA), which also issues the U.S. mark of approval. The CSA Certification is in accordance with CSA STD
C22.2 No. 213-M1987.
FCC Part 15 Notice
The transceiver complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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 specificall
the FCC Rules and Regulations. Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express approval
of GE MDS may void the user’s authority to operate this device. Furthermore, this device is intended to be used onl y
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.
y designed to be used under Section 15.247 of
Manual Revision and Accuracy
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.gemds.com.
Environmental Information
The manufacture of this equipment has required the extraction and use of natural resources. 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 li
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 GE 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.
mit the demand on natural resources, we encourage you to
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual vii
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
viii MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
INTRODUCING THE
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
1
1 Chapter Coun ter Reset Paragraph
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL 3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 3
1.3 APPLICATIONS 6
MDS entraNET SYSTEM
1.1.1 Supplemental Information Online ..................................................3
1.2.1 Model Offerings .............................................................................6
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN ............................................................6
Antenna Placement ............................................................................6
Communication Rules ........................................................................6
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices .......................................7
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks ...................................................8
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces .......... ....... ...... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ....... ...... ...................9
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products.................................................9
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services ............9
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant) Configuration ......................9
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE 10
1.4.1 Intrusion Detection via SNMP Traps ...........................................11
1.5 ACCESSORIES 12
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 1
2 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This guide provides installation and operating instructions for the MDS
entraNET 900TM and MDS entraNET 2400TM series radio system. The
guide is intended for use by those who install, configure, and operate the
entraNET wireless network.
Quick Start instructions are provided on the inside front cover of this
guide. They provide the basic steps for installing and operating the
transceivers, but do not cover all of the configurable parameters. The
main section of this guide contains complete information on menu
functions, as well as detailed installation, operation, and troubleshooting
information. This guide is arranged into the following eight chapters:
• Chapter 1—Introducing the MDS entraNET System (Page 1)
• Chapter 2—Tabletop Setup and Evaluation (Page 15)
• Chapter 3—Access Point (AP) Management (Page 29)
• Chapter 4—Remote Radio Management (Page 99)
• Chapter 5—Sample Configurations (Page 119)
• Chapter 6—Installation (Page 147)
• Chapter 7—Troubleshooting and Radio Tests (Page 165)
• Chapter 8—Technical Reference (Page 177)
• Chapter 9—Terms and Abbreviations (Page 195). Terms
defined in Chapter 9 are italicized on first appearance.
1.1.1 Suppl emental In fo rm ation Online
Release notes, manual updates, and other supplemental materials are
available online for many GE MDS products. For more information,
visit us at online at www.gemds.com.
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The entraNET system is an easy-to-install wireless solution supporting
long-range serial and Ethernet data transmission at speeds up to
106 kbps. The system includes an Access Point (AP) transceiver and a
Remote transceiver capable of serial and Ethernet communication.
These radios serve a variety of network configurations. Figure 1-1
shows the two radios.
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 3
Invisible place holder
Access Point
Remote
Figure 1-1. MDS entraNET Transceiver Models
Robust Radio
Operation
MDS entraNET transceivers use an advanced Media Access Controller
(MAC) to ensure network access for stations with data to send. The
MAC permits data to be sent from endpoint devices on an on-demand
basis, preventing over-the-air data collisions and ensuring that data gets
through as intended. MAC functionality eliminates the need for active
polling of Remotes, an important requirement in Report-by-Exception
(RBE) applications.
Rugged Packaging MDS entraNET radios are housed in compact and rugged die-cast cases
that need only be protected from direct exposure to the weather. The
transceivers are supplied with flat surface-mounting brackets or optional
35 mm DIN rail brackets, depending on customer requirements.
Simple Installation Basic installation typically employs an omni-directional antenna at the
AP site and a directional antenna at each associated Remote site. The
antenna is a vital link in the system and must be chosen and installed
correctly. INSTALLATION PL ANNING on Page 149 provides guidance
on choosing proper antennas and installation sites.
T o establish basic service, connect an antenna, connect an Ethernet LAN
(Local Area Network) to the AP, connect a serial or Ethernet device to
the Remotes, apply power, set a few operating parameters using a
personal computer, and you are done. No license is required for
operation in the U.S.A., Canada, and many other countries. Check the
regulations in your country before placing the radios on the air.
GE MDS Security
Suite
Network security is a vital issue in today’s wireless world. The
MDS entraNET system provides multiple tools to help you build a
network that minimizes the risk of eavesdropping or unauthorized
access. Some security features are inherent to radio operation, such as
the use of spread-spectrum transmission. Other techniques are built into
4 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
the radio firmware, including data encryption, enabling or disabling
remote access channels, and password protection.
Security is not a one-step process that can be simply turned on and
forgotten. It must be practiced and enforced at multiple levels, every
day. Section 1.4 contains additional information about entraNET
security features.
License-Free
Operation
The transceivers are designed for frequency-hopping spread-spectrum
operation in the license-free 900 MHz or 2400 MHz band. They can
provide reliable long distance communications over line-of-sight signal
paths.
Multiple Services Networks can include a mixture of equipment requiring Ethernet and
serial data interfaces on the same cell or AP. This flexibility allows the
transceiver to provide services in data networks that are on a migration
path from legacy serial or EIA-232-based hardware to faster and more
easily interfaced Ethernet systems.
Flexible
Management
Configuration, troubleshooting and other management activities are
performed using a connected PC, locally or remotely. Modes of access
include a local RS-232 console, local or remote IP access through
Ethernet, Telnet, or a Web browser, and Simple Network Management
Protocol (SNMP).
Feature Summary The MDS entraNET design makes installation and configuration an
easy task, while allowing for configuration changes in the future.
• Long-ra nge transmission over favorable, unobstructed terrain, with
sufficient antenna heights
• Low power consumption—Sleep and Shutdown modes to enable
solar-powered operation
• Repeater configurations—A repeater scheme can be established to
extend the transmission range or to work around obstructions in a
network. This is accomplished by connecting two radios back to
back at a single site.
• Industrial-grade product—Extended temperature range for
trouble-free operation in extreme environments
• Robust radio communications—Designed to perform in
high-interference environments
• GE MDS Security Suite—Blocks common attack schemes and
prevents “rogue” hardware from gaining access to or control of a
network. Common attack events are logged and reported using
alarms.
• Fast, 106 kbps data speed—Ten times faster than 9.6 kbps radios
• Simple setup—Ethernet bridge configuration option requires
minimal setup
• Serial ports—Gateway for serial interface equipment to IP or
Ethernet networks with an embedded terminal server
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 5
1.2.1 Model Offe rings
The MDS entraNET system includes two primary radio types— APs
and Remotes. Table 1-1 summarizes the interface capabilities for each
entraNET radio type.
NOTE: A Remote can serve multiple endpoint MAC addresses if the
Remote is provided an authorization code.
Table 1-1. MDS entraNET Models and Data Interface Services
Model LAN/ETH
AP LAN Yes Yes
Remote ETH Yes Yes
NOTES
*This connector provides access to the radio menu system.
COM1
*
COM2
1.3 APPLICATIONS
The following sections describe typical entraNET installations. All
installations should be reviewed by a network manager to ensure proper
integration with existing equipment.
1.3.1 Long-Range Wireless LAN
The wireless LAN is a common application of the entraNET system. It
consists of a central control station (AP) and one or more associated
Remote radios, as shown in Figure 1-2 on Page 7. A LAN provides
communications between a central LAN/WAN and remote Ethernet
endpoints. Remote radios can support multiple Ethernet endpoints if the
Remote is provided an authorization code.
The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer
equipment connected to it. As such, the system behaves just as it would
in a hardwired arrangement, with respect to data format and integrity.
Over-the-air messages are exchanged at the Ethernet level, including all
types of IP traffic.
Antenna Placement
The AP antenna is positioned at a location from which it can reliably
communicate with all of the Remote radios in the system. Commonly,
this is a relatively high location on top of a building, communications
tower or other elevated point.
Communication Rules
• A Remote transceiver can only talk over-the-air to an AP.
• Peer-to-peer communications between Remotes can take place
6 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
indirectly through the AP.
• An AP can only talk over-the-air to Remote radios; however, two
Remote
Remote
Access Point
Remote
Remote
WAN/LAN
Ethernet
Device
Ethernet
Device
LINK
ETH
COM1
PWR
LINK
ETH
COM1
PWR
Ethernet
Device
LINK
ETH
COM1
PWR
LINK
ETH
COM1
PWR
Ethernet
Device
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
PC Running
NetView
SCADA Host
Total Flow
Access Point
Remote
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Serial Polling
Converter
Remote
Remote
RTU
EIA-232
EIA-232
TCP/IP
C
O
M
2
P
W
R
L
I
N
K
C
O
M
1
C
O
M
2
P
W
R
L
I
N
K
C
O
M
1
C
O
M
2
P
W
R
L
I
N
K
C
O
M
1
HUB
Serial
Device
HUB
HUB
WAN
Ethernet
Device
ROUTER
HUB
L
A
N
C
O
M
1
C
O
M
2
P
W
R
L
IN
K
APs can communicate with each other through their Ethernet
connectors when a wired LAN/WAN is utilized.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-2. Typical Wireless LAN System
1.3.2 Combining Serial and Ethernet Devices
Prior to the introduction of the entraNET series, multiple networks were
often needed to service different types of communication protocols. An
entraNET system provides this functionality through a single AP radio.
Each of the Remote radios in a system can be connected via IP to
different SCADA or telemetry hosts, transporting different (or the same)
protocols. Both data streams are completely independent, and the
transceiver provides seamless, simultaneous operation, as shown in
Figure 1-3.
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 7
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-3. Multiple Protocol Network
By using a single AP , the cost of infrastructure deployment is cut in half,
with only one antenna, one feedline, and one lightning protector
required. Other cost reductions come from the system as a whole,
including reduced management requirements when using GE
MDS NETview Management System (MS) software. In addition,
entraNET offers nearly unlimited potential for future applications that
run over IP and Ethernet services.
In an IP-to-serial scenario, every Remote is sent information received by
the AP Ethernet port. Likewise, information received at the Remote
serial port is transmitted to the AP, and the AP delivers this information
through its Ethernet port in the form of an IP packet.
Additionally, the AP serial port can be used as a virtual Remote. This
means that encapsulated serial information received by the AP is sent
out the serial port of all Remotes as well as the AP serial port. The
reverse is also true, meaning that data received by the serial port of any
Remote or the AP serial port is encapsulated and sent out the AP
Ethernet port.
This arrangement can be used to connect an endpoint device at a
Repeater site without the need for an additional Remote radio.
1.3.3 DNP3 Protocol-Aware Networks
The GE MDS implementation of Distributed Network Protocol 3
(DNP3) allows the transfer and routing of DNP3 messages between
serial devices, while also supporting the conversion to an IP Ethernet
network. As DNP3 messages are routed through the system, the APs
“learn” the locations of all end devices, regardless of whether they are
configured for serial or Ethernet communication, eliminating the need
to configure their individual locations.
DNP3 devices with an Ethernet or IP interface can be connected to a
transceiver in one of two ways:
• To the Ethernet port of an AP radio
• To the Ethernet port of a Remote radio
DNP3 devices with a serial RS-232 interface can be connected to a
transceiver in one of two ways:
• To the serial port of an AP radio
• To the serial port of a Remote radio
The capability for DNP3 message routing is optional for the transceiver .
An Authorization Key is required to enable this functionality, and is
available for purchase from GE MDS.
8 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
NOTE: Detailed information on the DNP3 protocol is available on the
DNP Users’ Group Web site at www.dnp.org.
1.3.4 Upgrading an Older Wireless Network with
Serial Interfaces
Millions of wireless data products have been sold in the last two decades
for licensed and license-free operation, many of them manufactured by
GE MDS. There are several ways that these systems can benefit from
employing MDS entraNET wireless equipment, including flexible serial
and Ethernet interfaces, higher data throughput, and ease of installation.
MDS entraNET radios are well suited to replace leased lines, dial-up
lines, or existing data radios by taking advantage of the built-in serial
and Ethernet interfaces on the transceiver. The sections below discuss
two common scenarios.
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products
In most cases, legacy radio transceivers supporting serial interface
equipment can be replace d wit h M DS en traN ET r adios with l ittl e or no
special configuration. This equipment can be connected to MDS
entraNET radios through the COM1 or COM2 port with a DB-25 to RJ-45
cable wired for EIA-232 signaling. The COM2 port supports standard
EIA-232 signaling and acts as a data communications equipment (DCE)
device.
NOTE: Several previous GE MDS-brand products contained signal
lines on their interface connectors that are not used or required
on entraNET radios. Consult the equipment manual(s) for
interface pinout information, and connect only the required
pins.
Supplementing a Legacy Wireless Network with IP Services
MDS entraNET Remotes support most polled protocols. The serial
interfaces encapsulate serial data in two different modes: connectionless
(User Datagram Protocol, or UDP) and connection-oriented
(Transmission Control Protocol, or TCP).
For complete details on serial gateway interface modes, see
“CONFIGURING THE SERIAL INTERFACES” on Page 54.
1.3.5 P22 Protected Network (Redundant)
Configuration
For mission-critical applications, GE MDS offers the Prote cted Network
Station. This radio incorporates two entraNET AP transceivers, two
power supplies, and a switchover logic board that automatically selects
between Transceiver A and Transceiver B as the active radio. Figure 1-4
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 9
shows a view of the protected chassis. For system-level information on
this product, see GE MDS publication 05-4161A01.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-4. GE MDS P22 Protected Network Station
(incorporates two MDS entraNET APs)
1.4 GE MDS SECURITY SUITE
Today, the operation and management of an enterprise is becoming
increasingly dependent on electronic information flow. An
accompanying concern becomes the security of the communication
infrastructure and the security of the data itself.
The MDS entraNET is capable of dealing with many common security
issues. Table 1-2 profiles security risks and how the MDS entraNET
provides a solution for minimizing vulnerability.
Table 1-2. Security Risk Management
Security Risk The MDS entraNET Solution
Unauthorized access to the backbone
network through a foreign remote radio
“Rogue” AP, where a foreign AP takes
control of some or all Remote radios and
thus remote devices
“Dictionary attacks”, where an intruder
runs a program that sequentially tries to
break a password
Approved Remotes List
Only radios on the Approved
Remotes list connect
Approved AP List
A Remote connects onl y to APs on
its Approved AP List
Failed log-in lockdown
After three tries, a transceiver
ignores log-in requests for 5 min.
Critical event reports (traps) are
generated as well.
10 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
Table 1-2. Security Risk Management
Security Risk The MDS entraNET Solution
Denial of service, where Remote radios
could be reconfigured with bad
parameters, bringing the network down
Remote log-in
Local console log-in
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer
Protocol) and Telnet disabled,
enabling only local management
services
Airsnort and other war-drivin g intruders in
parking lots, near buildings, and so on
Frequency-hopping spread
spectrum (FHSS) does not talk
over the air with stan dard 802 .11 b
cards
The transceiver cannot be put in a
“promiscuous” mode
Proprietary data framing
Eavesdropping, intercepting messages
Key cracking
Replaying messages
Unprotected access to configuration using
SNMP
128-bit encryption
Automatic Key Rotation algorithm.
In addition, a Force Key Rotation
command is available to
immediately rotate the keys of the
AP and synchronize all Remotes
with it.
128-bit encryption with rotating
keys
Non-secure SNMP ve rsions can be
enabled or disabled at will.
SNMPv3 password protection
Potential, ongoing attacks
Provides early warning using
SNMP through critical event
reports of unauthorized log-in
attempts and suspicious activities
1.4.1 Intrusion Detection using SNMP Traps
In addition to the operative tools and techniques, the entraNET system
provides an SNMP-based network management system with traps
(alarms) that report suspicious activities or events. These include:
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 11
• Log-in attempt limit exceeded (accessed using HTTP)
• Successful log-in or logout (accessed using HTTP)
1.5 ACCESSORIES
MDS entraNET transceivers may be used with the accessories listed in
Table 1-3. Contact GE MDS for ordering details.
Table 1-3. Accessories
Accessory Description GE MDS Part
AC Power
Adapter Kit
OmniDirectional
Antennas
Yagi Antenna
(Directional)
TNC Male-to-N
Female Adapter
TNC Male-to-N
Female Adapter
Cable
2-Pin Power
Plug
Ethernet RJ-45
Straight-thru
Cable (CAT5)
Ethernet RJ-45
Crossover
Cable (CAT5)
RJ-12 to DB-9
Female Adapter
RJ-45 to DB-9
Female Adapter
EIA-232
Shielded Data
Cable
Fuse Small, board-mounted fuse used to protect
A small power supply module designed for
continuous service. UL approved. Input:
120/220; Output: 13.8 Vdc at 2.5 A
Rugged antennas well suited for use at AP
installations. Ask your GE MDS Sales
Representative for details.
Rugged antennas well suited fo r use at Remote
installations. Ask your GE MDS Sales
Representative for details.
One-piece RF adaptor plug. 97-1677A161
Short length of coaxial cable used to connec t
the TNC antenna connector to a Type N
connector commonly used on large-diameter
coaxial cables.
Mates with power connector on t he transceiver.
Screw terminals are provid ed for wires; locking
screws are threaded to prevent accidental
disconnection.
Cable assembly normally used to connect an
Ethernet device o r LAN to the transcei ver. Both
ends of the cable are wired identically.
(Cable length 3 ft/1 m)
Cable assembly used to connect an AP to an
Ethernet endpoint. (Cable leng th 3 ft/1 m)
Allows access to Data Serial port COM1 on
Remotes or APs.
Allows access to Data Serial port COM2 on
Remotes or APs.
Shielded cable terminated with a DB-9 male
connector on one end, and a DB-9 female on
the other end. (Cable length 6 ft/1.8 m)
against overcurrent conditions.
No.
01-3682A02
Contact GE
MDS
Contact GE
MDS
97-1677A159
(3 ft./1m)
97-1677A160
(6 ft./1.8m)
73-1194A39
97-1870A20
97-1870A21
73-2434A02
73-2434A12
97-1971A03
29-1784A03
12 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
Table 1-3. Accessories
Accessory Description GE MDS Part
Flat-Surface
Mounting
Brackets and
Screws
DIN Rail
Mounting
Bracket
Ethernet Surge
Protector
Brackets: 2 in. x 3 in. plates designed to be
screwed onto the bottom of the radio for
surface-mounting the radio.
Screws: 6-32, 1/4 in. with locking adhesive.
(Industry Standard MS 51957-26)
Bracket used to attach the transceiver to
standard 35 mm DIN rails commonly found in
equipment cabinets and panels.
Protects against voltage spikes or surges on
Ethernet lines. These conditions may be
caused by nearby lightning strikes or transient
conditions.
No.
82-1753-A01
70-2620-A01
03-4124A01
(Remote)
03-4125A02
(AP)
29-4018A01
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 13
14 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
TABLETOP SETUP AND
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
2
2 Chapter Coun ter Reset Paragraph
2.1 INTRODUCTION 17
2.2 CONNECTOR OVERVIEW 17
2.3 TEST SETUP 18
EVALUATION
STEP 1—CONNECT THE ANTENNA PORTS................................19
STEP 2—MEASURE AND CONNECT DC POWER........................19
STEP 3—CONFIGURE THE AP ......................................................22
Log-in and Configuration ..................................................................22
Set Key AP Parameters....................................................................23
STEP 4—CONFIGURE THE REMOTE RADIO...............................24
Log-in and Configuration ..................................................................24
Set or Verify Network Address..........................................................25
STEP 5—CONNECT TERMINAL EQUIPMENT..............................26
Ethernet Device Connection to Remote...........................................26
Serial Device Connection to Remote................................................26
STEP 6—CHECK FOR NORMAL OPERATION..............................26
2.3.1 Verify Connectivity (PING command) ..........................................27
Serial Connections ...........................................................................27
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 15
16 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
LAN
COM1
COM2
PWR
LINK
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Prior to installation in the field, you should set up the radio system in an
office or lab and become familiar with its operation and features. This
also allows tests of various network designs and configurations prior to
arrival at a field site. A tabletop test can be performed with any number
of radios.
This section describes the hardware setup and software configuration
needed for testing an Ethernet connection. To simul ate data traffic flow
over the radio network, a PC or LAN is connected to the LAN port of the
AP and used to PING (Packet INternet Groper) a device connected to
the Remote transceiver.
NOTE: It is important to use a radio system network address and
device IP address that are different from any radios currently
in use in your region or network. This greatly reduces the
possibility of disruption to traffic on existing systems during
testing.
A recommended technique for minimizing the chance of radio
network address conflicts is to use the last four digits of the AP
serial number.
2.2 CONNECTOR OVERVIEW
The following illustrations show all of the interface connectors present
on entraNET transceivers. Review these items when making the
connections described in this section.
Figure 2-1 on Page 18 shows the interface connectors for the AP
transceiver.
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 17
Invisible place holder
COM1
◆DCE (Console/Terminal only)
◆ 19,200 bps/8N1
◆No Handshaking
◆ RS/EIA-232
COM2
◆ DCE (Connects to serial data equip.)
◆ 9,600 bps/8N1
◆ Full Handshaking
◆ RS/EIA-232
PRIMARY POWER
◆ 6–30 Vdc
(800 ma @ 13.8 Vdc)
◆ Negative Ground
ANTENNA
◆ 50Ω TNC
◆ +30 dBm/1W Out (Max.)
◆ –30 dBm Input (Max.)
LAN
◆10-Base-T
◆ IP/Ethernet Port
◆IP Address: 192.168.0.1
COM1
◆DCE (Console/Terminal only)
◆ 19,200 bps/8N1
◆No Handshaking
◆ RS/EIA-232
PRIMARY POWER
◆ 6–30 Vdc
(600 ma @ 13.8 Vdc)
◆ Negative Ground
ANTENNA
◆ 50Ω TNC
◆ +30 dBm/1W Out (Max.)
◆ –30 dBm Input (Max.)
LAN
◆10-Base-T
◆ IP/Ethernet Port
◆No IP Address–Endpoint
Bridge Only
COM2
◆DCE (Connects to serial data equip.)
◆ 115,200 bps/8N1
◆Full Handshaking
◆ RS/EIA-232
Figure 2-1. AP Interface Connectors
Figure 2-2 shows the interface connectors for the Remote transceiver.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2-2. Remote Interface Connectors
Invisible place holder
2.3 TEST SETUP
18 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
The following steps explain how to make connections to the transceiver
system, power it up, and set basic configuration. After these steps are
complete, the system is ready for field installation.
STEP 1—CONNECT THE ANTENNA PORTS
POWER ATTENUATORS
Fixed or adjustable
1W Minimum Rating
POWER DIVIDER
NON-RADIATING ATTENUATORS
Install on unused divider ports (if any)
1W Minimum Rating
COMPUTER
COM
2
PW
R
L
IN
K
C
OM1
C
O
M2
PWR
L
IN
K
COM1
L
IN
K
C
O
M
2
C
O
M1
P
W
R
Remote
Remote
Access Point
Remote
L
A
N
C
O
M
1
C
O
M
2
P
W
R
L
IN
K
Figure 2-3 is a drawi ng of a tabletop arrangement. Connect the antenna
ports of each transceiver as shown through attenuators and an RF power
divider. This provides for stable communications between each radio,
while preventing interference to nearby electronic equipment.
Invisible place holder
Figure 2-3. Typical Setup for Tabletop Radio Testing
NOTE: It is very important to use attenuation between radios in the test
setup. The amount of attenuation required depends on the
number of radios being tested and the desired signal strength
(Received Signal Strength Indicator, or RSSI) at each
transceiver during the test. In no case should a signal greater
than –30 dBm be applied to any transceiver in the test setup. A
transmit RF power output level of +20 dBm (100 mW) is
recommended. This can be set via the radio menu (Main Menu >
Radio Configuration > RF Output Power Setpoint).
STEP 2—MEASURE AND CONNECT DC POWER
The power applied to transceivers (AP and Remotes) must be within
6–30 Vdc and be capable of continuously providing a minimum of 11 W
(typical power consumption is 800 mA at 13.8 Vdc for the AP and
600 mA at 13.8 Vdc for Remotes).
A power connector with screw terminals is provided with each radio.
Strip the wire leads to 6 mm (0.25 in.). Observe proper polarity, as
shown in Figure 2-4 on Page 20, with the positive lead (+) on the left.
05-4055A01, Rev. E MDS entraNET Technical Manual 19
NOTE: It takes about 30 sec for the AP transceiver to power up and be
ready for operation. The Remote requires approximately 5 sec
to power up.
Invisible place holder
Wire Ports
Lead
Screws (2)
Binding
POSSIBLE
EQUIPMENT
DAMAGE
CAUTION
POSSIBLE
EQUIPMENT
DAMAGE
Figure 2-4. Power Connector
(polarity: left +, right –)
The transceiver must be used only with negative-ground systems. Make sure the polarity of the
power source is correct. The radio is protected from
reverse polarity by an inte rnal diode an d an on-boar d
fuse.
Power Supply
Connections at
28 Vdc
Common 28 Vdc supplies are often high-current power supplies
designed primarily to charge battery banks. The radio can be operated
from these supplies, providing there are no transients on the leads as
power is applied to the radio. Transients can be created that rise above
30 Vdc to a voltage that exceeds the primary voltage rating of the radio
and can destroy its voltage regulators and other components. It is
important to keep this potential hazard in mind when designing 28 Vdc
power supply connections for the radio.
• Use a two-conductor cable to power to the radio. Then the
currents in the positive and negative wires are equal and
opposite, causing their magnetic fields to cancel. The result is
no net inductance in the connection to cause voltage overshoot.
• Do not connect a radio to a power supply that is already
powered up, unless necessary (that is, when connecting a radio
to a battery bank and charger). When power is applied by
switching on a power supply, the rise time of the supply is too
slow to cause overshoot.
• Typically, there are multiple return paths for the negative side
of the power supply, through the coaxial cable shield and the
chassis, for example. Any imbalance in the currents in the
power cable results in voltage overshoot, so this should be
minimized during initial power-up if the supply cannot be
turned off.
• Add a 1 to 2 , 2 W resistor in series with the positive lead. This
greatly limits voltage overshoot. Since these radios draw very
little current in receive mode , and transmit only briefly, there i s
little loss in power efficiency. In transmit, the voltage drop is
minimal and has no effect.
20 MDS entraNET Technical Manual 05-4055A01, Rev. E
Loading...