MDS Master Station
Setup Guide
INTRODUCTION
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 when
ordered with the appropriate network interface modules.
The MDS Master Station works with a wide array of wireless equipment, including MDS SD Transceivers, legacy MDS x710 radios, MDS
LN radios, and additional wireless options, depending on the modules
installed in the chassis.
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.
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper heat-sink engagement, the knurled
fasteners must be tightened with a screw driver to at least 10
inch-pounds (approximately ¼ turn past hand tight).
Supply 1 (DC)
Supply 2 (AC)
Figure 2: Front Panel Connectors & Indicators
Master Station modules are factory installed and cabled.
Module Descriptions - Redundant Station
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. In addition, a command line interface (CLI) is available through the mini USB port using the proper USB drivers available at
www.gemds.com.
Figure 1: MDS Master Station
Platform Manager
Radio A
Radio B
Alarm/Relay
(Front cover removed)
Duplexer
Table 1:
describes each module
Table 1: Module Descriptions - Redundant Station
Module ID Function
Power Supply 1,
Power Supply 2
Platform Manager 6834 Provides management and data interface
Radio A,
Radio B
Alarm/Relay
Duplexer 6837 Internal RF duplexer (if equipped)
Varies Input power supply. In a redundant
configuration, both supplies work in
tandem and are independent of which
radio is active.
functions.
6846
6847
6848
Single or redundant SD Master radios
(SDM9, SDM4), or LN radio modules
Redundant—Active radio relay and
alarm/audio interface.
Non-redundant—Alarm and audio
interface.
Related Documentation
In addition to this setup guide, the MDS Master Station Technical
Manual (05-6399A01) provides guidance on system 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.
Options and Accessories
The MDS Master Station may be equipped with optional battery backup
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.
Typical Application
Figure 3 on the following page shows a common arrangement of the
MDS Master Station as used in a licensed narrowband network. The
system shows both MCR and ECR 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.
05-6398A01, Rev. H.1 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 1
Table
3
: DC Power Supply Modules
6843 +/- 12-
30 VDC
10 A Max
Connector 1:
TX/RX Antenna Port
Knockout covers
installed on unused
ports
Figure 3: Licensed Narrowband Application Example
INSTALLATION
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;
Connector 1:
TX/RX Antenna Port
Connector 2:
RX Output to external
notch filter
Connector 3:
RX Input from external
notch filter
Figure 4: Internal Duplexer, Triple N connectors
Figure 5: Internal Duplexer (or internal T/R switch),
Single N connector
Connector 1:
TX Output Port
Connector 2:
RX Input Port
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 must be configured for data before connecting data equipment. The unit is hardwired as a DCE device, thus a
straight-through Ethernet cable may be used in most cases
(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.
Table 2: AC Power Supply Module
Module Input Power Current Rating
6755 100-264 VAC, 50/60 Hz 120W Max.
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. Power supply connections must be
less than 3 meters from the source to the 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.
Module Input Power Current Rating
2 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 05-6398A01, Rev. H.1
6844 +/- 36-75 VDC 3.5 A Max
6845 +/- 75-140 VDC 2 A Max
+/- VDC Input
Center Terminal;
Chassis ground
+/- VDC Input
Figure 7: DC Power Connector
5.
Connect a PC for Configuration (LAN or USB port). This prepares the Master Station for programming of desired operating parameters. Configuration is further described in Section 0
WARE CONFIGURATION
NOTE
6.
If serial-based cabling is used for configuration, an adapter
may be required at the PC, as many PCs do not offer a serial
port. In such cases, a USB-to-Serial adapter (with appropriate driver software) may be used. These adapters are available from a number of manufacturers.
Redundant Units—The Alarm/Relay module includes a manual
override toggle switch, which can be set into one of three positions
to associate it with a particular radio. The toggle switch is locking,
and must be pulled out to change positions. Switch functions are as
follows:
Up—Radio A; Down—Radio B; Center—Automatic
.
SOFT-
1. Open a web browser and navigate to the IP address of the unit
(default Ethernet IP address is 192.168.1.1). The initial sign-in
prompt appears.
2. Enter the username and password (admin is the default entry for
both fields). Click Sign In. Upon successful login, the Device
Overview page appears.
3. For general configuration, the Initial Setup Wizard will appear and
provide guidance in typical setups. This is disabled after the initial
setup but may be re-run at any time by accessing the Wizards link
on the left side of the screen, and clicking Initial Setup.
Key items that should be reviewed and/or set for the radio are:
•
Create one-time programmable passwords for unit recovery
•
Change login passwords (to maintain security)
•
Evaluate default factory configuration and lock the unit down to
the required security level
4. If your MDS master station was ordered with SD network interfaces,
select the SD Configuration Wizard, which steps you through initial SD Radio Module configuration. Key items that should be reviewed and/or set include:
•
Frequency plan
•
Modem selection
•
Keying mode
•
Serial data interface configuration
•
Encryption settings
5. For additional SD radio configuration and status options, navigate
to SDMS Configuration as follows:
•
Expand
‘Interfaces‘ on the left hand menu, and select the
interface named ‘sdms’ (SD Master Station):
When the switch is set to Automatic, the active radio is determined
by radio module presence and alarm status. If only one radio module is installed (A or B) it is recommended that the switch be set to
A or B, as appropriate.
7.
Radio, Alarm/Relay, and Duplexer Connections—The
Alarm/Relay module provides two alarm outputs, one for major and
one for minor alarms. This module also provides TX/RX audio, PTT
(TX keying), and analog RSSI connections when used in conjunction with compatible radio interfaces. See Section 0
ALARM/AUDIO PINOUT
All other required connections on the front of the unit are cabled at
the factory per ordered options.
for pin-out connections.
SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION
In the following steps, you will log into the unit’s configuration system
and set the basic operating parameters for the unit.
NOTE
Configuration via Web Device Manager
The configuration PC may be connected to the unit by WiFi (future
feature), USB, or Ethernet. The following steps describe a configuration
using the GE MDS Device Manager running on the unit. The Device
Manager is accessible through ETH1 or ETH2 using a web browser.
Minimum browser requirements: IE10 or later, Chrome, Firefox, or
Safari.
Consult your System Administrator if you are unsure
of the proper configuration settings for your network.
•
Redundant radios share a common configuration and are
managed simultaneously through the Basic Config, Ad-
vanced Config, or Actions tabs.
6. If your MDS master station was ordered with LN interfaces, LN
configuration can be located under the interface named “lnms” (LN
Master Station), which by default, is a member of the ‘bridge’ interface:
05-6398A01, Rev. H.1 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 3
Table
4
: Module LED Descriptions
PWR &
On — Power applied
On — Receiving
On (Green)
— Active – link
Alarm/Relay
ALARM MAJ
On —
Major Alarm
On — Radio B Active
1 OUT DSR (Data Set Ready)
•
Redundant radios share a common configuration and are
managed simultaneously through the Basic Config, Ad-
vanced Config, or Actions tabs.
Configuration via Command Line (CLI)
A scriptable command-line interface is accessible through the Ethernet
port using Secure Shell (SSH) terminal, COM2 Serial Port, or through
the unit’s USB interface. For enhanced security, the unit does not
support Telnet configuration. The steps below describe a cabled USB
connection and assume the proper drivers have been installed. Drivers
for Microsoft Windows are located free of charge at www.gemds.com
in the ‘Support Items’ folder under the Software/Firmware Download
section of the MDS Master Station product page. Drivers are not
needed for Mac OSX or Linux.
7. Connect a PC to the unit's USB port and establish a console
terminal session using a serial communications program.
8. Press the ENTER key to receive the login prompt; the USB interface will auto-baud. The COM LED flashes to indicate data communications.
9. Enter the Username (admin is the default username) and press
ENTER.
10. At the Password prompt, enter the password (admin is the default
password). Press ENTER. Upon successful login, the connection
message appears.
11. Enter the configuration mode by typing configure followed by the
ENTER key.
6.
Review and configure all key settings for the required application.
Built-in help is available by pressing the Tab key. A summary of all
unit settings may be viewed by entering the % show | details
command.
Tab-completion is a powerful feature that provides assistance when
typing commands in the CLI. Depending on the text that was already
entered, tab-completion displays different possible completions. When
the Tab key is pressed and no text has been entered, the CLI shows all
possible commands that can be typed.
Key items that should be reviewed or set for the unit are as follows:
•
Create one-time programmable passwords for unit recovery
•
Change login passwords (to maintain security)
•
Evaluate default factory configuration and lock the unit down to
the required security level
•
Radio configuration, including TX/RX frequency plan, modem
selection, keying mode, encryption, and serial data interface
configuration.
Refer to the Technical Manual for details on the above items.
7.
When finished, log out of the console session and disconnect the
PC from the Master Station.
Platform Manager ALARM Flashing — Alarmed (SD Master)
SD Radio PWR/ALARM
SD Radio ACTIVE
SD Radio TX
SD Radio RX
LN Radio PWR/ALARM
LN Radio ACTIVE
LN Radio TX
LN Radio RX
Alarm/Relay ALARM MIN On — Minor Alarm
Alarm/Relay ACT A
Alarm/Relay ACT B
Flashing — Alarmed radio
On — Active
Off — Standby
On — Transmitting
Off — No Data
Off — No Data
On (Green) — Power applied
Flashing (Red) — Alarmed radio
On (Red) — Active – no link
Off — Standby
On — Transmitting
Off — No Data
On — Receiving
Off — No Data
On — Radio A Active
Off — Radio A Standby
Off — Radio B Standby
COM1/COM2 REFERENCE
The COM port is commonly used to connect an external DTE telemetry
device to the unit, supporting either the RS-232 or RS-485 (balanced)
format, depending on how the device is configured. The unit supports
data rates of 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, and
115200 bps (asynchronous data only).
This connector mates with a standard RJ-45 plug (see
available from many electronics parts distributors.
Pin Descriptions—RS-232 Mode
Pin descriptions for the COM connector in RS-232 mode are shown in
Table 5 and Table 6 on the following page. Note that the unit is hardwired as a DCE device. Refer to the Technical Manual for RS-422/485
descriptions. (Note: RS-485 supported on COM2 only.)
Figure 8: COM Connector (RJ-45)
As viewed from outside the unit
Table 5: COM1 Pin-out - Default Data Port
Figure 8
)
IN-SERVICE OPERATION
In-service operation of the MDS Master Station is completely automatic.
The only operator actions required are to apply power and check the
module LEDs for proper indications as shown in
LED Descriptions
Module LED Name Function
Platform Manager PWR
Platform Manager
4 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 05-6398A01, Rev. H.1
.
ALARM ON
Table 4: Module
On — Power applied
Flash — System bootup
System Initialization (pre-bootup)
Pin # Input/
Pin Description
Output
2 OUT DCD (Data Carrier Detect)
3 IN DTR (Data Terminal Ready)
4 Ground Connects to chassis ground (negative supply)
5 OUT RXD (Received Data)—Supplies received data
to the connected device
6 IN TXD (Transmitted Data)—Accepts TX data
from the connected device
+12v
6
12
PTT
11
4
10
Rx Audio +
9
2
8
Tx Audio +
1
7
7 OUT CTS (Clear to Send)
8 IN RTS (Request to Send)
Table 6: COM2 Pin-out - Default Console Port
Pin # Input/
Output
1 Reserved -- (Do not connect)
2 Reserved -- (Do not connect)
3 Reserved -- (Do not connect)
4 Ground Connects to chassis ground (negative supply)
5 OUT RXD (Received Data)—Supplies received data
6 IN TXD (Transmitted Data)—Accepts TX data
7 OUT CTS (Clear to Send)
8 IN RTS (Request to Send)
Pin Description
to the connected device
from the connected device
ALARM/AUDIO PINOUT
The ALARM/AUDIO Interface on the Alarm/Relay module provides
audio signaling and alarm outputs as shown in Figure 9. Note: PTT,
Analog RSSI, and Audio connections are only available when used with
SD interfaces.
5
Rx Audio -
3
Tx Audio -
Figure 9: Alarm/Audio Connections
(As viewed from front of the Alarm/Relay module)
Analog RSSI
Major Alarm Contact
Major Alarm Contact
Minor Alarm Contact
Minor Alarm Contact
Ground
Invisible place holder
Redundant Units
The active radio can be identified by the corresponding LED on the
alarm/relay module as well as the active LED on the radio module. The
active unit is normally selected automatically. For troubleshooting, the
toggle switch can be used to manually set the active radio. Alternatively, the switch can remain in the automatic position and the active radio
can be selected via the Device Manger UI.
Technical Assistance
Factory technical assistance is available by contacting GE MDS during
business hours (8:30 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time). For telephone
assistance, call (585) 241-5510, or visit our website at www.gemds.com
for additional contact options.
Refer also to the Regulatory & Product Information Sheet supplied with
these instructions.
VIDEO TUTORIALS
GE Industrial Communications
YouTube Learning & Development
If trouble occurs with the unit, verify that it meets the basic requirements
listed below. These items should be checked prior to starting any detailed troubleshooting or calling for assistance. All units must have:
LEDs
The LEDs on the front of installed modules (
Descriptions
and alarm indicators are provided on Platform Manager, Radio, and
Alarm/Relay modules. Radio Modules also have TX/RX LEDs to show
wireless activity.
05-6398A01, Rev. H.1 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 5
TROUBLESHOOTING
•
Adequate and stable primary power
•
Secure cable and wiring connections
•
Proper configuration for the application
) provide useful information when troubleshooting. Power
Within YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ search on
MDS Master Station
Table 4: Module LED
Regulatory & Product Information
Sheet—MDS Master Station
FCC Part 15 Notice
This Equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for
a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case users will be required to correct the
interference at their own expense.
This device 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.
Canada, IC ERP Limits
IC SRSP-501, 6.3.2. Limits the ERP to 125W for fixed point-to-point
operation. For IC use the antenna gain and Transmit power must be set
to meet the ERP limit of 125W. This can be accomplished by using
the appropriate at antenna gain in combination with the RF power settings.
RF Exposure Notice
To comply with RF exposure requirements, the antenna shall be installed to ensure a minimum separation distance shown below from
persons. The antenna may not be collocated or operated in conjunction
with other transmitting devices. To reduce potential radio interference to
other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the
Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP) is not more than that
permitted for successful communication.
Only approved antennas may be used on the unit's RF output connectors, as listed below. The use of non-approved antennas may result
in a violation of FCC rules, and subject the user to FCC enforcement
action.
Table - Antenna Gain vs. Minimum RF Safety Distance
Safety Distance
400 MHz variant – FCC
Safety Distance
400 MHz variant – IC
Safety Distance
900 MHz variant – FCC
Safety Distance
900 MHz variant - IC
Safety Distance (other
models):
Antennas with gain greater than 16dBi have not been authorized for
use with the EUT; and (b) installation of the EUT into portable applications with respect to RF compliance will require SAR testing and Regulatory approval.
0–5 dBi 5–10 dBi 10–16.5 dBi
1.09
meters
1.43
meters
0.99
meters
1.29
meters
Consult factory prior to operation.
Antenna Gain
1.95
meters
2.54
meters
1.76
meters
2.30
meters
4.11
meters
5.37
meters
3.73
meters
4.87
meters
Warning: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment
Servicing Precautions
When servicing energized equipment, be sure to wear appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). During internal service, situations could arise where objects accidentally contact or short circuit
components and the appropriate PPE would alleviate or decrease the
severity of potential injury. When servicing radios, all workplace regulations and other applicable standards for live electrical work should be
followed to ensure personal safety.
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 publication, 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 GE MDS, using the information at the
back of this guide.
In addition, manual updates can be found on our 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.
Product Test Data Sheets
Test Data Sheets showing the original factory test results for this unit
are available upon request from the GE MDS Quality Leader. Contact
the factory using the information at the back of this manual. Serial
numbers must be provided for each product where a Test Data Sheet is
required.
Grounding Requirements
To minimize the chance of damage to the unit and connected equipment, a safety ground (NEC Class 2 compliant) is recommended which
bonds the antenna system, chassis, power supply and connected data
equipment to a single-point ground, keeping all ground leads as short
as possible.
Normally, the unit is adequately grounded if the supplied mounting
brackets are used to mount it to a well-grounded metal surface. If the
unit is not mounted to a grounded surface, it is recommended that a
safety ground wire be attached to one of the mounting brackets or a
screw on the enclosure.
The use of a lightning protector is recommended where the antenna
cable enters the building. Bond the protector to the tower/support
ground, if possible. All grounds and cabling must comply with applicable codes and regulations.
6 MDS Master Station Setup Guide 05-6398A01, Rev. H.1
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