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Supply 1 (DC)
Supply 2 (AC)
Platform Manager
Radio A
Radio B
Alarm/Relay
Duplexer
Table 1: Module Descriptions - Redundant Station
Power Supply 1,
Power Supply 2
Input power supply. In a redundant
configuration, both supplies work in
tandem and are independent of which
radio is active.
Provides management and data interface
functions.
Single or redundant full duplex SD Master
radios.
Redundant—Active radio relay and
alarm/audio interface.
Non-redundant—Alarm and audio
interface.
Internal RF duplexer (if equipped)
The MDS Master Station serves as a central station in a multiple address system (MAS) wireless network. It provides long range, duplex (or
simplex) communication between a control point and associated remotes. It is fully redundant for mission-critical applications, and is a
compatible replacement for older MDS x790 Master Stations.
The MDS Master Station works with a wide array of wireless equipment,
including MDS SD Transceivers, legacy MDS x710 radios, and additional wireless options, depending on the modules installed in the
chassis.
Figure 1: MDS Master Station
All modules are installed on slide-in assemblies, accessible from the
front of the unit. A protective cover on the unit’s face slides off, allowing
access to the modules and all interface connectors. In addition to
communication modules, up to two power supply units may be installed
and are available to suit a wide range of AC and DC power requirements.
Each module is secured to the chassis with knurled fasteners for easy
changes, when required. Figure 2 shows a common configuration of
installed modules.
MDS Master Station
Setup Guide
1.1 Related Documentation
In addition to this setup guide, the MDS Master Station Technical
Manual (05-6399A01, under development) provides guidance on sys-
tem design, advanced configuration, and maintenance. The Technical
Manual is available to personnel involved in the design, commissioning
and maintenance of the network. Electronic copies of the latest user
documents and support files are available free of charge at
www.gemds.com.
1.2 Options and Accessories
The MDS Master Station may be equipped with optional battery backup
(10-watt RF power output - 5 watt is standard) and a variety of duplexer
and module options. Contact your factory representative for information
on any of these options.
In addition, GE MDS offers an Accessories Selection Guide listing
additional items that may be used with many of our products. Contact
your factory representative or visit www.gemds.com for the latest copy.
Figure 2: Front Panel Connectors & Indicators
(Front cover removed)
Master Station modules are factory installed and cabled. Table 1:
Module Descriptions - Redundant Station describes each module
installed in a redundant configuration, from left to right. For a
non-redundant configuration, blank plates are used in place of the
redundant power supply and radio modules and a non-redundant version of the Alarm/Relay module is installed.
The MDS Master Station supports Ethernet or serial polling depending
on order options. A host computer may be connected to the appropriate
port on the chassis (LAN for Ethernet; COM1/2 for serial signaling).
Configuration of the unit is performed through a web interface. This
requires a LAN connection to one of the Ethernet ports on the Platform
Manager module. Configuration options are similar to those of the SD
Transceiver and the radio supports full SD functionality in transparent
mode. In addition, a command line interface (CLI) is available through
the mini USB port using the proper USB drivers available at
www.gemds.com.
05-6398A01, Rev. C MDS Master Station Setup Guide 1
1.3 Typical Application
Figure 3: Application Example on the following page shows a
common arrangement of the MDS Master Station as used in a multiple
address radio network. The system shows both SD and legacy x710
remote transceivers in use.
Depending on order options, the MDS Master Station can communicate
with remotes employing Ethernet signaling, serial signaling, or a mix of
both.
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Connector 2:
RX Output to external
notch filter
Connector 1:
TX/RX Antenna Port
Connector 3:
RX Input from external
notch filter
Connector 1:
TX/RX Antenna Port
Knockout covers
installed on unused
ports
Connector 1:
TX Output Port
Connector 2:
RX Input Port
Table 2: AC Power Supply Module
Table 3: DC Power Supply Modules
Figure 3: Application Example
Refer to the figures which follow for these steps, as required:
1. Mount the unit. The unit may be rack-mounted (2U high) in a
19-inch rack cabinet or may be placed on any sturdy tabletop or
other flat surface. The installation site should be free of excessive
dust, and should have adequate ventilation. The chassis should be
positioned so that all interface cabling will reach the required connectors.
When rack mounting, the rack ears can be installed in one of three
positions to allow flexibility in the mounted depth of the chassis. The
unit should be mounted so as to maximize airflow around the rear
heat sink.
2. Connect Antenna Feed-lines. All coaxial antenna connections are
made to the Type-N connectors on the rear of the unit. Figure 4,
Figure 5, and Figure 6 illustrate the antenna options available;
Figure 5: Internal Duplexer (or internal T/R switch),
Single N connector
Figure 6: External duplexer or dual antennas
(TX and RX ports pass directly through)
3. Install the Data Interface Cabling. Interface connections are made
to the front of the Platform Manager module. Typical connections for
most sites include:
• Serial Data—Attach data equipment to the front panel COM1 or
COM2 port. By default, the COM2 port is set for management
and COM1 for RS-232 data. The unit is hardwired as a DCE
device. To connect to a standard DB9 serial device, a
straight-through Ethernet cable may be used in combination with
a DB9-F to RJ-45 connector (GE MDS part no. 73-2434A12).
• Ethernet LAN—Attach data equipment to the ETH1 and/or
ETH2 port. The auto-sensing MDIX feature allows either a
straight-through or crossover cable to be used.
Where applicable in the steps that follow, secure all cable connections
with the locking screws provided.
4. Connect Primary Power—The Master Station is powered using
one or two power supply modules that work in tandem. The modules
may be AC, DC, or a combination of both. The following tables list
each type and key operating parameters.
Figure 4: Internal Duplexer, Triple N connectors
2 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 05-6398A01, Rev. C
All DC power supply modules have chassis isolated inputs and a
diode bridge for floating ground, positive ground, or negative ground
installations. These modules include a keyed power connector with
screw-terminals. Strip the wire leads to 6mm (1/4 inch) and insert
them into the wire ports provided. Be sure to observe the polarity
shown below. Tighten the binding screws securely and insert the
connector into the module.