GE MDS Mercury Series, Mercury 900, Mercury 3650 Reference Manual
TM
MDS Mercury Series
Reference Manual
Wireless IP/Ethernet Transceiver
including Mercury 900, 3650, and Option Set 1 Remotes
Covering all AP and Remote Units
05-4446A01, Rev. D
DECEMBER 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 PRODUCT OVERVIEW AND APPLICATIONS ......... 1
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL................................................................................................... 3
1.1.1 Start-Up Guide .................................................................................................................... 3
1.1.2 Online Access to Manuals ................................................................................................... 3
1.1.3 Conventions Used in This Manual ....................................................................................... 3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION............................................................................................. 4
1.2.1 Model Offerings ...................................................................................................................6
1.2.2 Remote Radio with Option Set 1 .........................................................................................7
1.2.3 GE MDS P23 Protected Network (Redundant) Configuration ............................................. 8
1.2.4 External GPS PPS Option ................................................................................................... 9
1.3 APPLICATIONS ..............................................................................................................9
1.3.1 Mobile/Fixed Data System .................................................................................................. 9
1.3.2 Wireless LAN ..................................................................................................................... 10
1.3.3 Point-to-Point LAN Extension .............................................................................................11
1.3.4 Serial Radio Network Connectivity .....................................................................................11
1.3.5 Multiple Protocols and/or Services .....................................................................................11
1.3.6 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services .................................................................................... 12
1.3.7 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with Serial Interfaces ................................................. 13
1.4 NETWORK DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS.................................................................... 14
1.4.1 Extending Network Coverage with Repeaters ................................................................... 14
1.4.2 Protected Network Operation using Multiple Access Points ..............................................16
1.4.3 Collocating Multiple Radio Networks ................................................................................. 16
1.5 GE MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE............................................................................ 17
1.6 ACCESSORIES............................................................................................................ 19
2 TABLETOP EVALUATION & TEST SETUP............. 21
2.1 OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................23
2.2 STEP 1
2.3 STEP 2
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual i
—
CONNECT THE ANTENNA PORTS............................................................. 23
—
CONNECT THE PRIMARY POWER ............................................................24
ii
2.4 STEP 3
2.5 STEP 4
2.5.1 Getting Started 25
2.5.2 Procedure 25
2.5.3 Basic Configuration Defaults 25
2.6 STEP 5
2.6.1 Option 1 Set (MaxRM) Connectors 28
2.7 STEP 6
—
CONNECT PC TO THE TRANSCEIVER...................................................... 25
—
REVIEW TRANSCEIVER CONFIGURATION 25
—
CONNECT LAN OR SERIAL DATA EQUIPMENT 26
—
CHECK FOR NORMAL OPERATION 29
3 EMBEDDED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.................. 31
3.1 MS INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................... 33
3.1.1 Differences in the User Interfaces .....................................................................................33
3.2 ACCESSING THE MENU SYSTEM ............................................................................. 35
3.2.1 Methods of Control ............................................................................................................36
3.2.2 PC Connection and Log In Procedures ............................................................................. 36
3.2.3 Navigating the Menus ........................................................................................................ 40
3.3 BASIC OVERVIEW OF OPERATION...........................................................................42
3.3.1 Starting Information Screen ............................................................................................... 42
3.3.2 Main Menu ......................................................................................................................... 43
3.4 CONFIGURING NETWORK PARAMETERS ............................................................... 45
3.4.1 Network Configuration Menu .............................................................................................45
3.4.2 Ethernet Port Configuration Menu ..................................................................................... 55
3.4.3 Bridge Configuration .......................................................................................................... 56
3.4.4 SNMP Agent Configuration ................................................................................................ 57
3.4.5 AP Location Push Config Menu .........................................................................................59
3.4.6 SNTP Server Configuration ............................................................................................... 62
3.5 RADIO CONFIGURATION............................................................................................ 63
3.5.1 Radio Configuration Menu ............................................................................................... 63
3.5.2 Serial Port Configuration ................................................................................................... 74
3.6 MODBUS / TCP SERVER CONFIGURATION ............................................................. 87
3.6.1 Modbus/TCP in Mercury Transceivers
3.6.2 Menu Selections ................................................................................................................ 88
An Overview ...................................................... 87
—
3.7 SECURITY CONFIGURATION MENU......................................................................... 91
3.7.1 Device Security Menu .......................................................................................................92
Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
3.7.2 Wireless Security Menu ..................................................................................................... 94
3.7.3 IEEE 802.1x Device Authentication ................................................................................... 96
3.7.4 Manage Certificates ..........................................................................................................98
3.8 REDUNDANCY CONFIGURATION (AP ONLY)......................................................... 101
3.9 GPS CONFIGURATION (REMOTE ONLY)................................................................ 106
3.10 DEVICE INFORMATION MENU...............................................................................108
3.11 PERFORMANCE INFORMATION MENU................................................................. 109
3.12 MAINTENANCE/TOOLS MENU............................................................................... 122
3.12.1 Installing Firmware via TFTP ........................................................................................ 128
3.12.2 Auto Firmware Upgrade Menu (AP Only) ..................................................................... 137
3.13 PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION............................................................................ 139
3.13.1 Proper Operation
—
What to Look For ........................................................................... 142
4 TROUBLESHOOTING & RADIO
MEASUREMENTS................................................... 145
4.1 TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................147
4.1.1 Interpreting the Front Panel LEDs ................................................................................... 147
4.1.2 Troubleshooting With the Embedded Management System ........................................... 148
4.1.3 Using Logged Operation Events ..................................................................................... 151
4.1.4 Alarm Conditions .............................................................................................................152
4.1.5 Correcting Alarm Conditions ............................................................................................153
4.1.6 Logged Events ................................................................................................................153
4.2 RADIO (RF) MEASUREMENTS................................................................................. 155
4.2.1 Antenna System SWR and Transmitter Power Output ....................................................155
4.2.2 Antenna Aiming
—
For Directional Antennas .................................................................... 156
5 PLANNING A RADIO NETWORK.......................... 159
5.1 INSTALLATION PLANNING ....................................................................................... 161
5.1.1 General Requirements .................................................................................................... 161
5.1.2 Site Selection ..................................................................................................................162
5.1.3 Terrain and Signal Strength ............................................................................................. 163
5.1.4 Antenna & Feedline Selection ......................................................................................... 163
5.1.5 How Much Output Power Can be Used? ........................................................................ 167
5.1.6 Conducting a Site Survey ................................................................................................ 167
5.1.7 A Word About Radio Interference .................................................................................... 168
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual iii
iv
5.1.8 ERP Compliance at 900 MHz .......................................................................................... 170
5.1.9 ERP Compliance at 3650 MHz ........................................................................................ 171
5.2 dBm-WATTS-VOLTS CONVERSION CHART............................................................172
6 TECHNICAL REFERENCE..................................... 173
6.1 DATA INTERFACE CONNECTORS ........................................................................... 175
6.1.1 LAN Port .......................................................................................................................... 175
6.1.2 COM1 Port ...................................................................................................................... 175
6.2 SPECIFICATIONS...................................................................................................... 176
6.3 NOTES ON SNMP......................................................................................................179
6.3.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................... 179
7 GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS....... 185
Copyright Notice
This publication is protected by U.S.A. copyright law. Copyright 2008, GE MDS. All rights
reserved.
ISO 9001 Registration
GE MDS adheres to the internationally-accepted ISO 9001 quality system standard.
To our Customers
We appreciate your patronage. You are our business. We promise to serve and anticipate your
needs. We will strive to give you solutions that are cost effective, innovative, reliable and of the
highest quality possible. We promise to build a relationship that is forthright and ethical, one that
builds confidence and trust.
Related Materials on the Internet
tion notes, firmware upgrades and other updated information is available on the GE MDS Web site
at www.GEmds.com.
Data sheets, frequently asked questions, case studies, applica-
—
About GE MDS
Over two decades ago, GE MDS began building radios for business-critical applications. Since
then, we have installed thousands of radios in over 110 countries. To succeed, we overcame
impassable terrain, brutal operating conditions 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.
Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
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, supply 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 our 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.
OPERATIONAL & SAFETY NOTICES
RF Exposure
(900 MHz models)
RF Exposure
(3650 MHz models)
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.
Do not allow people to come closer than 23 cm (9 inches) to the antenna
when the transmitter is operating in indoor or outdoor environments. More
information on RF exposure is on the Internet at
www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins
.
To meet co-location requirements, the FCC requires a 20cm (7.87 inch)
separation distance between the unit’s WIFI and fundamental antenna
installations.
Professional installation required. The transceiver described here emits
radio frequency energy. Although the power level is low, the concentrated
energy from a directional antenna may pose a health hazard. Do not allow
people to come closer than 20.7 cm (8.15 inches) to the antenna when the
transmitter is operating. This calculation is based on an 18 dBi panel
antenna. Refer also to the table below, which lists required separation distances. Additional information on RF exposure is available on the Internet
at www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/bulletins.
To meet co-location requirements, the FCC requires a 20cm (7.87 inch)
separation distance between the unit’s WIFI and fundamental antenna
installations.
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual v
vi
CSA/
us
Notice (Remote Transceiver Only)
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/
C22.2 No. 213-M1987.
US
). The CSA Certification is in accordance with CSA STD
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.
EXPLOSION
HAZARD!
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.
FCC Part 15 Notices
The transceiver series 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 specifically designed to be used under Section 15.247 of the FCC Rules and Regulations.
Any unauthorized modification or changes to this device without the express approval of Microwave Data Systems may void the user’s authority to operate this device. Furthermore, the Mercury
Series 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.
Part 15 rules also require that the Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) from a Mercury Series
installation not exceed 36 dBm. Refer to this manual for more information.
Industry Canada RSS Notices
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be chosen
so that the Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.
This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed on Page 170 and 171. Antennas
not included in this list are strictly prohibited for use with this device. The required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.
Manual Revision and Accuracy
This manual was prepared to cover a specific version of firmware code. Accordingly, some screens
and features may differ from the actual unit you are working with. While every reasonable effort
has been made to ensure the accuracy of this guide, product improvements may also 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 limit 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 GE MDS or your supplier for more information on the proper disposal of this equipment.
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual vii
viii
Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
1
1 Chapter Counter Reset Paragraph
Contents
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ......................................................... 3
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ................................................... 4
AND APPLICATIONS
1.1.1 Start-Up Guide ....................................................................... 3
1.1.2 Online Access to Manuals ...................................................... 3
1.1.3 Conventions Used in This Manual .........................................3
1.2.1 Model Offerings ...................................................................... 6
1.2.2 Remote Radio with Option Set 1 ............................................ 7
1.2.3 GE MDS P23 Protected Network (Redundant) Config. ......... 8
1.2.4 External GPS PPS Option ..................................................... 9
1.3 APPLICATIONS ..................................................................... 9
1.3.1 Mobile/Fixed Data System ..................................................... 9
1.3.2 Wireless LAN ......................................................................... 10
1.3.3 Point-to-Point LAN Extension ................................................ 11
1.3.4 Serial Radio Network Connectivity ......................................... 11
1.3.5 Multiple Protocols and/or Services ......................................... 11
1.3.6 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services ......................................... 12
1.3.7 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with Serial Interfaces .....13
1.4 NETWORK DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ............................ 14
1.4.1 Extending Network Coverage with Repeaters .......................14
1.4.2 Protected Network Operation using Multiple APs .................. 16
1.4.3 Collocating Multiple Radio Networks ..................................... 16
1.5 GE MDS CYBER SECURITY SUITE .................................... 17
1.6 ACCESSORIES..................................................................... 19
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 1
2 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This Reference Manual is one of two publications provided for users of
the Mercury Series
information, an overview of common applications, a screen-by-screen
review of the menu system, technical specifications, suggested settings
for various scenarios, and troubleshooting information. This manual
should be available to all personnel responsible for network design,
setup, commissioning and troubleshooting of the radios.
1.1.1 Start-Up Guide
The Mercury Series Start-Up Guide (Part No. 05-4558A01) is a companion publication to the Reference Manual. It is a smaller book, with a
specific purpose—to guide an installer in the basic steps for getting a
transceiver on the air and communicating with other units in a network.
It provides only the essential information installers need for getting their
equipment up and running in the shortest time possible.
TM
transceiver system. It contains detailed product
1.1.2 Online Access to Manuals
In addition to printed manuals, many users need access to documents
electronically. This is especially useful when you need to access documentation while traveling, or want to share a document with another
user in the field. Electronic documents also allow searching for a specific term or subject, especially in larger manuals.
Access manuals for our equipment anytime from our Web site at
www.GEmds.com
page and select
. Simply click the
Product Manuals
from the drop-down list. A search
Downloads
tab at the top of the home
window appears to help you locate the manual you need.
Online manuals are provided as PDF files in the Adobe
®
Acrobat
®
stan-
dard. If necessary, download the free reader for PDF files from
www.adobe.com
.
1.1.3 Conventions Used in This Manual
On-Screen Menu Items
On-screen menu items or command entries are presented in a distinctive
font to set them apart from regular text (for example:
Address, Password
). You will find this font most often in Chapter 3,
where the menu system is discussed in detail. When variable settings or
a range of options are available for a menu option, the items are presented inside brackets, with the default setting (if any) shown last after
a semicolon:
Network Name, IP
[
available settings or range;
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 3
default setting
]
Menu Strings
To help show the path to a menu selection, navigation strings are used
in several places in this manual. For example, suppose you want to view
or set the Network Name assigned to your system. This item is located
in the Network Configuration Menu, so the navigation string in the text
would appear as shown:
Main Menu>>Network Configuration>>Network Name
By following this order of menus, you can quickly reach the desired
menu.
1.2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The GE MDS Mercury Series
TM
transceiver (Figure 1-1) is an
easy-to-install wireless solution offering extended range, secure operation, and multi-megabit performance in a compact and rugged package.
The transceiver is ideally suited for demanding applications in fixed or
mobile environments, where reliability and range are paramount.
The transceivers are commonly used to convey text documents,
graphics, e-mail, video, Voice over IP (VoIP), and a variety of other
application data between mobile, fixed-point, and WAN/LAN-based
entities.
Based on multi-carrier Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing
(OFDM), the transceiver features high speed/low latency, basic Quality
of Service (QoS) for prioritizing traffic, Ethernet and serial encapsulation, and network roaming. It also provides enhanced security features
including AES encryption and IEEE 802.1x Device Authentication,
making the Mercury system the best combination of security, range, and
speed of any industrial wireless solution on the market today.
Invisible place holder
Rugged Packaging
The transceivers are housed in a compact and rugged die cast-aluminum
case that need only be protected from direct exposure to the weather.
4 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
Figure 1-1. The GE MDS Mercury Series
(Remote unit shown, AP similar in appearance)
TM
Transceiver
This one enclosure contains all necessary components for radio operation and data communications.
Simple Installation
Secure Operation
Mercury Transceivers are designed for rapid and trouble-free installation. For basic services, you simply connect the antennas (900 or 3650
MHz as required, and GPS), connect your data equipment, apply primary power, and set some operating parameters. No license is required
for 900 MHz operation in the USA, Canada, and many other countries.
A simple registration process is required for 3650 MHz operation in the
USA. Check requirements for your region before placing the equipment
into service.
Most installations employ an omni-directional antenna at the Access
Point (AP) location and mobile stations. Fixed Remote stations often
employ a directional antenna aimed at the AP. Regardless of the type
used, antennas are a vital part of the system and must be chosen and
installed correctly. Refer to
INSTALLATION PLANNING on Page 161
for guidance on choosing suitable antennas and installation sites.
Data network security is a vital issue in today’s wireless world. Mercury
transceivers
provide multiple tools to help you build a network that minimizes the risk of eavesdropping and unauthorized access. Some are
inherent in the radio’s operation, such as the use of 900 MHz
spread-spectrum transmissions; others include AES data encryption,
enabling/disabling channels, IEEE 802.1X port blocking, approved
device lists, secure devices management protocols, and password protection.
Robust Radio
Operation
Flexible Services
Security is not a one-step process that can simply be turned on and forgotten. It must be practiced and enforced at multiple levels,
24 hours-a-day and 7 days-a-week. See
SUITE”
on Page 17 for more information about the transceiver’s secu-
“GE MDS CYBER SECURITY
rity tools.
The transceivers are designed for operation in the 900 MHz license-free
Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band and the 3650-3700 MHz
registered band. They provide consistent, reliable coverage over a large
geographic area.
Mobile range depends on many factors, including terrain, building density, antenna gain, and speed of travel. The unit is designed for successful application in a variety of mobile environments, and offers the
best combination of range, speed and robustness available in an industrial wireless package today. By using multiple Access Points, a network
can be created that provides consistent, reliable coverage over a large
metropolitan area. See
“SPECIFICATIONS” on Page 176 for more
information on transmission range.
Users with a mix of equipment having Ethernet and serial data interfaces
can use this equipment via a Remote transceiver. The transceiver provides services in data networks that are migrating from legacy
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 5
serial/EIA-232-based hardware to the faster and more easily interfaced
Ethernet protocol.
Flexible
Management
Transceiver
Features
You can locally or remotely configure, commission, troubleshoot, and
maintain the transceiver. Four different modes of access are available:
local RS-232 console terminal, local or remote IP access (via Telnet or
SSH), web browser (HTTP, HTTPS), and SNMP (v1/v2/v3) All IP
access interfaces are available through the unit’s wired Ethernet port and
over the air.
The text-based interfaces (RS-232 console, Telnet, and SSH) are implemented in the form of easy-to-follow menus, and the terminal server
provides a wizard to help you configure the units correctly.
The transceiver’s design makes the installation and configuration easy,
while allowing for future changes.
• Industrial-Grade Product—Extended temperature range for
trouble-free operation in extreme environments.
• Robust Radio Communications—Designed to operate over long
distances in dense, high-interference environments.
• Robust Network Security—Prevents common attack schemes
and hardware from gaining access or control of the network.
Common attack events are logged and reported by alarms.
• Transmission Speed—Operation at 1.5 Mbps is over 100-times
faster than 9.6 kbps radios.
• Plug-and-Play Connectivity—AP or Remote configuration
requires minimal setup.
• Built-in GPS Receiver—GPS technology is used for timing and
location data. The only external equipment needed for this functionality is a GPS antenna available from GE MDS).
1.2.1 Model Offerings
The transceiver comes in two primary models—Access Point and
Remote. Unique hardware is used for each model. Of the Remote radios,
there are two sub-types available—
with Option Set 1
Table 1-1 summarizes each radio’s interface services.
Table 1-1. Transceiver Models and Data Interface Services
Model Sub-Type
Access Point N/A
Remote Standard Remote
Remote w/Option 1 Set
NOTES
1. COM1 provides access to the embedded Management System for all units.
6 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
Standard Remote and Remote
, both of which support Ethernet and serial services.
Ethernet/LAN
Yes Yes No No
Yes Yes No No
Yes Yes Yes Yes
1
COM1
1
USB Integrated WiFi
Available Frequency Bands
At the time of publication, Mercury transceivers are offered in two different frequency bands: 902-928 MHz (Mercury 900) and 3.65–3.70
GHz (Mercury 3650). The 900 MHz unit operates in a license-free spectrum (frequency hopping spread spectrum—FHSS), which may be used
by anyone in the USA, provided FCC Part 15 rules are observed.
Canada, and certain other countries allow license-free operation in this
band—check your country’s requirements.
The 3.65–3.70 GHz radio operates in a “registered” band using contention-based protocol, which provides additional protection from interference, but it requires FCC registration before operation can begin. Other
restrictions may apply based on your location and “grandfathered” FSS
users. Check local requirements before operation. GE MDS has published a whitepaper containing frequently asked questions about the
3.65–3.70 GHz band. To obtain a copy, request publication
05-4734A02.
Operationally, the Mercury 3650 has two key differences from the Mercury 900: First, it operates on a different RF band (3.65–3.70 GHz).
Second, it only requires GPS for TDD synchronization of the Access
Points, which may or may not be needed for an installation.
Access Point or Remote?—Identification Tip
The outward appearance of AP and Remote radios is nearly identical,
however, the hardware for each type is different and they are
not inter-
changeable. An quick way to identify them is to observe the color of the
gasket seal in the center of the radio case.
APs have a black gasket,
while Remote units have a yellow gasket.
In addition to gasket color, a label on the top of each radio identifies it
as an AP or Remote unit. If the label shows an
it shows a
—R
suffix, it is a Remote.
—A
suffix, it is an AP. If
1.2.2 Remote Radio with Option Set 1
The “Option Set 1” Remote is similar to and compatible with the standard Mercury Remote. It contains the same 900 MHz radio, user interface, and primary functionality as the Standard Remote. The Standard
Remote can be
differences are the additional physical interfaces: an IEEE 802.11b/g
WiFi networking module, a USB device port, a USB host port, and a
second Ethernet port on the radio enclosure.
directly replaced with the Option Set 1 Remote. The key
The USB ports are used for device management. The host port accepts
a flash drive and can be used to transfer firmware and configuration
files. The two Ethernet ports are connected to an internal, integrated
switch and included in the Layer 2 bridge.
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 7
The internal WiFi module has FCC modular approval and may only be
operated by connecting one of the GE MDS approved antennas (see
802.11 WiFi Module Specifications below) to the reverse-SMA con-
nector on the radio’s front panel. The WiFi module can operate as an
802.11 Access Point or Infrastructure Station, according to user configuration. The operational mode (
AP, Infrastructure RM
) and frequency can
be configured through the unit's user interface.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-2. Mercury Remote with Option Set 1 (MaxRM)
(Note interface connector differences from Standard Remote)
802.11 WiFi Module Specifications
The specifications listed below are unique to Remotes with Option 1
Set, which contain a 2.4 GHz WiFi module.
SPECIFICATIONS on
Page 176 contains a complete list of general Mercury Series specifica-
tions.
Protocol: IEEE 802.11b/g OFDM 6 to 54Mbps, CCK 1 to
Frequency Range: 2400 to 2500MHz
Maximum Transmit Power: 15 dBm
Permissible Antennas: PCTEL: BMLPV2400NGP
FCC: Part 15C
FCC ID: VRA-SG9011028
WiFi Antenna Connector: Female Reverse SMA
11Mbps
Sagrad: W1037
Sagrad: W1038
1.2.3 GE MDS P23 Protected Network (Redundant)
Configuration
For mission-critical applications, a Protected Network Station is also
offered. This unit incorporates two Access Points, two power supplies,
and a switchover logic board that automatically selects between Transceiver A and Transceiver B as the active radio. Figure 1-3 shows the
8 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
protected chassis. For system-level information on this product, refer to
MDS publication 05-4161A01.
Invisible place holder
Figure 1-3. MDS P23 Protected Network Station
(incorporates two transceivers, with automatic switchover)
1.2.4 External GPS PPS Option
The External GPS Precise Positioning Service (PPS) option allows for
an external GPS device to provide the PPS input to the Mercury. This is
useful in installations where multiple radios require GPS timing. This
option prevents each Mercury from requiring its own GPS antenna.
Refer to the electrical specifications in the
section on Page 178. This option is only available in hardware revision
1.0.2 or later.
External GPS PPS Option
1.3 APPLICATIONS
The following sections provide illustrations of typical transceiver installations. This is an overview only. A Network Administrator should be
involved in all installation planning activities.
1.3.1 Mobile/Fixed Data System
Mercury transceivers support high-speed data communications in a
mobile environment. In this application, Remote radios “roam” between
different Access Points, providing seamless transitions and continuous
coverage throughout a municipal area. Figure 1-4 shows an example of
an integrated system employing both mobile and fixed Mercury transceivers.
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 9
MDS NETview MS®
R
Computer
Server
(Ethernet)
Control Center
WAN
Mercury
remote
Router
Mercury AP
Mercury
remote
Mercury
remote
RS-232
Mobile DataMobile Data
Invisible place holder
RTU/PLC
(Ethernet)
Long Range WLAN
MDS 4790
Master Radio
Licensed Serial/IP Integration
Figure 1-4. Integrated Mobile/Fixed Application
Mercury
remote
Video
Surveillance
MDS 4710
MDS 4710
RS-232
RS-232
RTU/PLC
(Serial)
RTU/PLC
(Serial)
1.3.2 Wireless LAN
The wireless LAN is a common application of the transceiver. It consists
of a central control station (Access Point) and one or more associated
Remote units, as shown in Figure 1-5. A LAN provides communications
between a central WAN/LAN and remote Ethernet segments. The operation of the radio system is transparent to the computer equipment connected to the transceiver.
The Access Point is positioned at a location from which it communicates with all Remote units in the system. Commonly, this is a high location on top of a building or communications tower. Messages are
exchanged at the Ethernet level. This includes all types of IP traffic.
A Remote transceiver can only communicate over-the-air to an Access
Point (AP). Peer-to-peer communications between Remotes can only
take place indirectly via the AP. In the same fashion, an AP can only
communicate over-the-air to associated Remote units. Exception: Two
APs can communicate with each other “off-the-air” through their
Ethernet connectors using a common LAN/WAN.
Remote
Remote
Invisible place holder
LAN
LAN
Access Point
emote
LAN
Remote
LAN
WAN/LAN
10 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
Figure 1-5. Typical Wireless LAN
1.3.3 Point-to-Point LAN Extension
A point-to-point configuration (Figure 1-6) is a simple arrangement
consisting of an Access Point and a Remote unit. This provides a communications link for transferring data between two locations.
Invisible place holder
Access Point
LAN/WAN
Remote
LAN
Figure 1-6. Typical Point-to-Point Link
1.3.4 Serial Radio Network Connectivity
The transceiver provides a path for serial devices to migrate to
IP/Ethernet systems. Many radio networks in operation today still rely
on serial networks at data rates of 9600 bps or less. These networks can
use the transceiver as a means to continue using the serial service, while
allowing the infrastructure to migrate to an IP format.
A Remote transceiver with its serial port connected to a GE MDS
serial-based radio, such as the MDS x790/x710, MDS TransNET and
others, provides a path for bringing the data from the older radio into the
IP/Ethernet environment of a Mercury-based system.
Invisible place holder
Serial
Serial Conn.
MDS 4710 Remote
Device
NETWORK
ROUTER
NMS Control
Point
HUB
ROUTER
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Access Point
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
Serial Conn.
Serial Conn.
MDS 4790
Master
MDS 9790
Master
MDS 9810
MDS 4710 Remote
MDS 9710 Remote
MDS 9710 Remote
MDS 9810 Remote
Master
MDS 9810 Remote
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Figure 1-7. Backhaul Network
1.3.5 Multiple Protocols and/or Services
Prior to the introduction of Ethernet/IP-based radios, two radios were
often used to service two different types of devices (typically connected
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 11
to different SCADA hosts). A Mercury radio provides this capability
using a single remote unit. The unit’s serial port can be connected via IP
to different SCADA hosts, transporting different (or the same) protocols. Both data streams are completely independent, and the transceiver
provides seamless simultaneous operation as shown in Figure 1-8.
Invisible place holder
RTU
EIA-232
Flow Meter
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
EIA-232
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
Serial
Device
ROUTER
NETview
HUB
HUB
WAN
HUB
HUB
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
SCADA Host
Total Flow
Remote Serial
Remote Serial
Access Point
Remote Serial
Access Point
Figure 1-8. Multiple Protocol Network
By using a single radio, the cost of deployment is cut in half. Beyond
requiring only one radio instead of two, the biggest cost reduction comes
from using half of the required infrastructure at the remote site: one
antenna, one feedline, one lightning protector and ancillary hardware.
Other cost reductions come from the system as a whole, such as reduced
management requirements. And above all, the radio provides the potential for future applications that run over Ethernet and IP, such as video
for remote surveillance.
1.3.6 Wireless LAN with Mixed Services
The transceiver is an excellent solution for a long-range industrial wireless LAN. It offers several advantages over commercial solutions, primarily improved performance over extended distances. The rugged
construction of the radio and its extended temperature range make it an
ideal solution even in harsh locations. In extreme environments, a
simple NEMA enclosure is sufficient to house the unit.
The transceiver trades higher speed for longer range. Commercial
802.11a/b/g solutions are designed to provide service to relatively small
areas such as offices, warehouses and homes. They provide high data
rates but have limited range. The Mercury transmits at a higher power
level, uses a different frequency band, has higher sensitivity, and a nar-
12 Mercury Reference Manual 05-4446A01, Rev. D
rower channel to concentrate the radio energy, reaching farther distances. It is designed for industrial operation from the ground up.
IP-based devices that may be used with the transceiver include new,
powerful Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs). These, as well as other devices, may be used in
applications ranging from SCADA/telemetry monitoring, web-based
video, security monitoring, and Voice over IP. Figure 1-9 shows a typical wireless IP network.
Invisible place holder
Remote Bridge
IP Camera
IP/Ethernet
IP/Ethernet
IP/Ethernet
NMS Control
Point
SCADA Host
Modbus/IP
Printer
Access Point
Remote Bridge
Figure 1-9. Extended-Range LAN with Mixed Applications
1.3.7 Upgrading Older Wireless Network with Serial
Interfaces
Millions of wireless data products have been installed 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 incorporating Mercury equipment. The chief advantages are interface flexibility (serial and Ethernet in one unit), and higher data
throughput. By taking advantage of its built-in serial and Ethernet interfaces, the transceiver is well suited to replace leased lines, dial-up lines,
or existing “multiple address” data transceivers.
Replacing Legacy Wireless Products
In most cases, legacy radio transceivers supporting serial-interface
equipment can be replaced with Mercury transceivers. Legacy equipment can be connected to the transceiver through the
DB-25 to DB-9 cable wired for EIA-232 signaling. The
as a Data Communications Equipment (DCE) port.
05-4446A01, Rev. D Mercury Reference Manual 13
COM1 port with a
COM1 port acts
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